Patriarch Sako: the Scar of ISIS Still Haunts the Assyrians

The Arabic letter "n" (inside red circle), signifying "Nasrani" (Christian), on an Assyrian home in Mosul. Baghdad -- Although the black flag of the Islamic State no longer flies over the Nineveh Plains, "only 60 percent of Christians have returned". It is a collective tragedy, directed against Christians and other minorities, that is still ingrained in people's minds. The Islamic State may have been defeated, but its ideology remains strong, and not only in Iraq", said the Patriarch of the Chaldean Church, Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, to Fides on the tenth anniversary of the expulsion of Christians from the Nineveh Plains. They were awakened in the middle of the night by Islamists and forced to leave their homes, leaving behind all their belongings. Whole families were thrown out of bed with loudspeakers: "People were forced to flee in their pajamas", reported Sister Luigina of the Chaldean Daughters of the Immaculate Virgin Mary to Fides after that terrible night. "The Christians had to leave everything behind, even their shoes, and were forcibly led barefoot towards Kurdistan," said another witness. In total, around 120,000 Christians left the Nineveh Plain that night. A very high number when you consider that they included Christians who had fled Mosul a few weeks earlier. The flight of the Christians from the IS militias did not actually begin on August 6, but in June 2014, when the so-called Islamic State managed to conquer the city. At the beginning of that summer, at least 1,200 Christian families lived in Mosul alone.

At the beginning of this century, there were still more than 100,000 Christians in Mosul alone, embedded in a social structure in which the Sunni majority lived peacefully alongside Shiites, Yazidis and other minorities. But even before the atrocities of the self-proclaimed Islamic State, the number of Christians had decreased after the first US military intervention that led to the overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime in 2003. Since then, sectarian violence has increased.

Suffering and difficulties continue to this day, as Cardinal Sako points out: "Exclusion from work due to sectarianism, personal status law and especially the Islamization of minors when one of their relatives becomes Muslim, lead Christians to no longer believe in the future."

For the Cardinal, "the sectarian and tribal mentality that still exists must be overcome. We need a modern, democratic, civilized State based on citizenship. We must no longer speak of majority, minority, Christians, Jews, Shiites, Sunnis, Yazidis and so on, but of citizens. We are all citizens with equal rights and duties."

To these problems are added "the worrying current situation in the Middle East and the fear of total war". The result is "the emigration of more than a million Christians abroad, which has greatly reduced the number of Christians in Iraq. And Christians continue to leave the country. It is estimated that 100 Christian families leave Iraq every month".

In 2014, Christians left Mosul even before the conquest of the city, which began on June 10. On June 12 of the same year, the then Chaldean Archbishop of Mosul, Amel Shimon Nona, confirmed to Fides that the vast majority of the 1,200 Christian families had long since left the city. He and his priests had found shelter in the villages of the Nineveh Plain, such as Kramles and Tilkif.

In the following weeks, the exodus continued. The houses of Christians in Mosul were "marked" along with those of Shiites as homes that could be expropriated by IS supporters as the so-called caliphate continued to expand. At the beginning of August, militiamen arrived in the Nineveh Plain, exactly where the Christians had found refuge. For the jihadists, conquering the area was no problem: the Kurdish Peshmerga militias stationed between Mosul and Qaraqosh had to retreat because they had to cover another front that had been opened near Kirkuk, one of the cities in Iraq with the most oil fields.

Mortar shells announced the arrival of IS fighters at the beginning of August. On the night of August 6-7, it was either convert or leave. And so the Nineveh Plain, home to the oldest Christian communities in the world, emptied. Thousands flocked to the border with Iraqi Kurdistan, which granted them permission to enter just hours later.

Today, ten years later, the return of Christians to Mosul and the Nineveh Plains seems like a "mirage". The dates on the return of Christians are uncertain and there are no confirmed figures. In seven years (Mosul was liberated in 2017, ed.), very few Christian refugees have returned to their homes in a stable manner. "There are about 30-40 families, often not complete. Many of the returnees are elderly," stresses Cardinal Sako.

"The Iraqis," continued Patriarch Sako, "and especially the Christians, hope to live in a real, democratic civil State that treats the 'minorities' according to the principle of citizenship and equality, respects their rights and allows them to live a dignified life. But I believe that this project is still a long way off," said the Chaldean Patriarch.

"To date, several families come and go from other places, but they do not represent a stable presence that can be noticed," confirmed Paul Thabit Mekko, the Chaldean Bishop of Alqosh, to Fides. "I believe," the prelate says, "that more than 90% of Christians who fled Mosul do not intend to return. What they have seen and suffered has created a psychological wall. Some were displaced, others felt betrayed. We do not know if the situation will change. Today, many of them live in Ankawa, the Christian-populated district of Erbil, where they feel safer and where there are more opportunities to work. They do not think they will return to a city that has changed a lot compared to when they lived there. They would not recognize it."

According to the latest statistics, Christians still represent 7% of the total of over 600,000 displaced people still living in the Kurdistan Region. Local authorities indicate that few Christians who fled Mosul and the Nineveh Plain during the reign of IS have returned to their former areas of residence in recent years. By the end of 2020, 55,000 of Iraqi Christian refugees living in Kurdistan had already gone abroad, mostly to countries in North America, Australia and Europe, as well as other countries in the Middle East. Even then, this multitude of Christians living abroad accounted for about 40 percent of the nearly 138,000 baptized Christians who had found refuge in Kurdistan after fleeing Mosul and the villages of the Nineveh Plains. In 2022, similar flows of Christian population migration were recorded in other areas of Iraq. A report prepared two years ago by the Rudaw Media Network (a Kurdistan-based publishing group) collected testimonies from priests and laypeople confirming a sharp, progressive decline in the local Christian population.

According to the testimonies collected, about 300 Christian families still live in the Basra region, while 50 years ago there were 5,000 Christian families in the same region. But as Palestinian Archbishop Michel Sabbah, Latin Patriarch Emeritus in Jerusalem, said, the questions and even the uncertainties that hang over the future of Christians in the Middle East "are not primarily a question of numbers, although numbers are important, but a question of faith."
Kenya says upcoming FOCAC summit to deepen bilateral ties with China

Xinhua) 09:46, August 07, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The Niels and Mellie Esperson Buildings in downtown Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer The Esperson buildings downtown were built separately in 1927 and 1941. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Cameron Management had owned the Esperson buildings on and off since late 2004. Mabry Campbell/ Courtesy Cameron Management Originally constructed in 1927 and 1941 by late real estate investor and female entrepreneur Mellie Esperson, The Esperson Buildings are historic landmarks within downtown Houston. Cameron Management Esperson Buildings are Houston landmarks downtown.. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

The owner of downtown Houstons historic Esperson office buildings lost them to its lender in a foreclosure auction Tuesday.

Interra Capital Group, a Houston-based real estate firm, took ownership of the Esperson with a $12 million credit bid, according to Harris County records. Cameron Management had owned the buildings at 808 Travis and 815 Walker at various times since 2004.

Interra said it plans to maintain the historic character of the complex that at one point had been slated for an office-to-residential conversion.

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The Esperson complex, with its Italian Renaissance architecture and cupola, was developed by female entrepreneur Mellie Esperson beginning in 1927 with a 27-story building. A 19-story building was added in 1941, according to the buildings website.

Former owners Cameron Management will oversee property and facilities management at least in the interim.

Our acquisition of the Esperson reflects not just an investment in real estate but also a commitment to preserving the historical integrity of significant properties. We proceeded in a cooperative foreclosure process and are pleased that Cameron Management will remain involved in transition, ensuring it being seamless for all parties involved, said Jack Polatsek, principal of Interra Capital, in a statement.

Cameron Management in 2018 borrowed $52.8 million from lender MetLife Investment Management to refinance the property. The loan amount was reduced to $41 million, according to Harris County deed records. Its not clear when Cameron defaulted on the loan, but sometime after the loan matured, MetLife sold the loan to Interra Capital Group in March, making Interra the new lender.

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Dougal Cameron, president of Cameron Management, said he was aware of the potential of a foreclosure for at least a year as his firm was unable to pay down the debt.

The Esperson complex is about 50% leased, Cameron said, generating enough revenue to cover the buildings' operating costs but not enough to pay the debt service on the loans, he said.

Cameron said that he had envisioned turning the complex into a mix of residential and office space, but that his firm had difficulties in securing financing. Meanwhile, refinancing a half vacant office property was nearly impossible in todays market, he said.

Cameron said his firm made a failed bid to buy the Esperson complex during the foreclosure proceedings.

ANOTHER HISTORIC DOWNTOWN TRADE: Jones on Main, a historic Houston office, sold to Florida investor

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Interra Capital doesnt plan to immediately pursue a residential conversion, although its not ruling out any possible uses for the buildings, Polatsek said. For now, the firm plans to maintain the buildings' current uses while it studies what to do with the 600,000 square-foot complex.
National Guard intercepts crystal meth shipment bound for Australia

El Marques, Queretaro  Airport authorities in the state of Queretaro have seized a shipment of crystal meth bound for Australia. The drug shipment was found hidden inside Mexican artesian skulls.

The finding was made inside the Queretaro Intercontinental Airport when members of the National Guard located two boxes of skulls with pre-Hispanic engravings. The skulls were found filled with synthetic crystal meth bound for Kallangur, Queensland, Australia.

The drug-filled skulls were located by a K9 narcotics dog during an August 1 parcel company inspection located inside the air terminal.

The canine specimen became interested in two cardboard boxes due to the possible presence of an illicit object or substance, so both shipments were placed in an X-ray machine where the presence of organic material was confirmed, National Guard reported.

An X-ray shows the drug hidden inside. The 12 artesian skulls weighed over 28 kilos. Photo: Guardia Nacional August 1, 2024.

|Upon careful inspection of the packages destined for Kallangur, Queensland, Australia, National Guard noticed inside 12 skulls with pre-Hispanic engravings weighing more than 28 kilograms. The skulls were filled with a crystalline substance with the characteristics of the synthetic drug crystal, they explained.

The boxes with the drug-filled skulls were seized and made available to the Federal Public Prosecutors Office in the state.
Tabasco driver found sandwiched between two semis by Cancun rescue team

Cancun, Q.R.  Emergency services from Cancun were called to the scene of a three vehicle accident late Monday night. It was around midnight when Cancun firemen were requested to assist in the removal of the driver of a car that had become sandwiched between two semis.

The three vehicles were found locked together on the Cancun-Merida bypass near Huayacan Avenue in Cancun after a failed pass attempt by the driver of the car.

Daniel D from Tabasco was trying to pass one of the semis when he ran out of time and became lodged when a second semi appeared in the opposite lane. The private car was located partially under the trailer of both semis.

The driver, seen here, was treated for minor abrasions. Photo: August 5, 2024.

The Tabasco driver was treated by paramedics at the scene and released with only minor abrasions. Speed and careless driving are being factored into the late night Cancun highway accident.
Bible-only churches rely more heavily on extra-biblical sources than they may admit. Those sources are often destructive of the faith once delivered to the saints. Its time to go deep into history and reclaim the time-tested creeds.

Evangelical Christians sometimes struggle with how best to enforce orthodoxy. The past century of Protestant history could be written as a story of attempts to define whats essential and whats debatable on issues from the Bibles inerrancy to more recent controversies over marriage, sexuality, and womens ordination as pastors. Protestants typically appeal to the Bible as their final authority, but doing so is as likely to intensify disagreements as resolve them.

Carl Trueman argues that the boundary-setting problems of evangelicals could be assuaged by Protestant creedalism. His book Crisis of Confidence: Reclaiming the Historic Faith in a Culture Consumed with Individualism and Identity was originally published in 2012 as The Creedal Imperative. The trends that Trueman observed in 2012 toward hyper-individualism and pragmatism have only accelerated in the intervening years. Crisis of Confidence also serves as a prescriptive companion to Truemans compelling The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self, his intellectual history of expressive individualism.

Given that gender transitioners and drag queens have become our cultures icons, expressive individualism has clearly triumphed in the West. But has it infected the church, too? Certainly mainline Protestants and even many progressive evangelicals have fallen in lockstep with elite trends on radical subjectivity, most obviously regarding gender identity. Progressive and mainline churches have dwindled accordingly, while culturally traditional churches are often the most demographically robust.

Yet even in churches that have stayed faithful to biblical orthodoxy, a spirit of pragmatism, consumerism, and individualism often prevails. Doctrinal rigor is sometimes replaced by your best life now preaching (in megachurch pastor Joel Osteens phrase). This genre focuses on successful living more than historic doctrine. Church members come and go with blinding rapidity, often driven by factors such as which church has the most scintillating music or the most fun youth group. A church class on trinitarian doctrine might attract a few fogeys, but those on Christian-themed fitness or therapy will fill to overflowing.

Trueman offers creeds as a practical means to mitigate rising consumerism and self-obsession in churches. Some readers may be surprised to learn that many evangelical churches do not recite creeds in church services. Nor do they have an explicit commitment to the Apostles or Nicene Creed, or to one of the classic confessions of the Reformation era, such as the Westminster standards. They do often have a statement of faith shared by churches in their denomination (such as the Southern Baptist Conventions Baptist Faith and Message, originally adopted in 1925), or one tailored especially for that congregation. But those statements often languish unmentioned in services. Crisis of Confidence is directed to churches that consider themselves doctrinally orthodox but do not recite creeds as a regular part of their liturgy.

What does a historic creed do for a body of believers? First, a creed gives the church a focus of objective truth that does not change across time or cultures. The reality about God is not something we imagine or invent. Instead, when we affirm a historic confession, we join the cloud of witnesses through centuries and across geographic space who have affirmed the truth about God. Second, creeds and confessions cultivate godly affections, as the great theologian Jonathan Edwards put it.

More than ephemeral feelings, the affections reflect the disposition of the heart, especially toward God. This cultivation of godly affections by affirming truth stands in sharp contrast to expressive individualism, which asserts that ones feelings create truth. We see this phenomenon in todays common claim that if I feel I am a woman, I must be one, regardless of what biology or chromosomes say.

Finally, confessions consciously connect us to church history and remind us that Christianity is not primarily about me, my feelings, or my congregation, pastor, or denomination. Confessions de-center (but do not de-value) the trials of faith that individual Christians inevitably endure. Such trials (often related to church hurt) usually feature in deconstructionist testimonies on social media. Ones doubts about Christianity matter, but the fact that I have questions about Christianity or hurtful church experiences doesnt change the massive heft of the Great Tradition of Christian belief and practice. The scholar D.H. Williams defines the Great Tradition, from a Protestant perspective, as the foundational legacy of apostolic and patristic faith, most accurately enshrined in Scripture and secondarily in the great confessions and creeds of the early church. Scripture and historic confessions remind us of that monumental tradition.

Deconstructionists and ex-vangelicals rage against historic Christianity and sometimes act as if their attacks on Christian beliefs or churchly hypocrisies represent a veritable new Enlightenment. But their fulminations look smaller and less consequential when compared to the legions from every tribe, tongue, and nation who have believed and lived out the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 3).

I heartily agree with Truemans recommendations about churches and confessions. Indeed, I am a member of a Southern Baptist church that regularly recites the Apostles and Nicene Creeds. I also work at a confessional Baptist seminary that takes no responsibility more seriously than teaching in accord with historic Christian orthodoxy. I do wish, however, that Trueman had probed a bit more deeply into the reasons why evangelical churches do not recite creeds and/or explicitly attach themselves to historic confessions. Resistance to creeds and confessions has taken a variety of forms, and the Protestant mantra no creed but the Bible has an older history than just the contemporary Wests captivity to expressive individualism.

This is not the place to review all the disputes over creeds in Protestant history, but it is worth noting that the concept of no creed but the Bible (a term that began to appear frequently in the early 1800s) was not always a cover for theological sloppiness or liberalism. Truemans Presbyterians, for example, fought bitterly in the 1700s over requirements that pastors subscribe to confessions (usually the Westminster Confession of 1646), in addition to affirming the Bibles inspiration. Many conservative Presbyterians saw subscription to confessions as undermining the unique authority of the Bible.

When evangelicals began creating parachurch agencies such as the American Bible Society, they also cited no creed but the Bible to make the societies welcoming to all who affirmed the divine inspiration of the Scriptures. This parachurch temperament may be an instance of pragmatism, but it would be hard to construe as liberal.

Many biblicists were genuinely queasy over any implication that man-made confessions paralleled the Scriptures in authority. They wanted to make the distinction between themselves and Roman Catholics crystal clear on this point. For Protestants, who hold to sola scriptura and see the Bible as uniquely authoritative, there will always be uncertainty about what precise status a creed or confession holds in the church. Trueman persuasively argues, however, that no church ever adheres to the Bible and nothing else in its teaching. The theologically orthodox are always influenced by extrabiblical authors, traditions, and even terminology such as the Trinity. Every church is confessional, whether it admits it or not.

The Trinity is perhaps the best example of a core Christian doctrine that is essential to the Great Tradition but never labeled by its historic name (the Trinity) in the Bible. To Trueman, if you ever use terms like the Trinity in an authoritative way (true Christians have always believed in the Trinity), you are being creedal. Its better to acknowledge what sources (Nicaea and others) codified biblical teaching on the doctrine, rather than acting as if youre drawing on the Bible alone for belief in the Trinity.

Since the early 20th century, the mantra no creed but the Bible has indeed been used by some theological innovators to justify departures from the Great Tradition. Such advocates have rejected everything from the Trinity to the Virgin Birth to the physical Resurrection in the name of anti-creedalism. In my tradition, modernizing Baptists often cited soul competency to argue that no one besides God could rightly judge an individuals beliefs or actions.

In its worst forms, soul competency echoed the radical individualism of figures such as Thomas Jefferson, in which there was no such thing as orthodoxy and you could dispense with whatever parts of Scripture you wished. Few went as far as Jefferson did when he literally snipped out miracles to craft the Jefferson Bible, but the liberal interpretation of soul competency had similar implications. In recent years, liberals have been the most likely Baptists to tout no creed but the Bible as they jettisoned traditional biblical teachings on issues such as marriage and sexuality. Such liberal Christians will never accept Truemans call to confessionalism. Some liberal Protestants do still recite creeds, of course, but they see confessing faith as more significant than what the creeds themselves say.

So who is likely to adopt Truemans recommendations? Probably the churches that affirm the Bibles authority but that have not given explicit attention to the confessions (whether from the patristic or Reformation era) shaping their beliefs. Take, for example, an evangelical pastor who sees the doctrine of the Trinity as essential but whose church does not explicitly attach itself to the Nicene Creed. If this pastor did include the recitation of the creed in his churchs order of worship, it would probably receive an approving response from much of the congregation. Other members might quibble based on legitimate Protestant confusion about how the creed relates to Scripture.

The pastor might allay such concerns by noting that Christians have perennially seen creeds and confessions as concentrated deposits of tradition and historic statements of what Scripture teaches in a synthetic form, as Trueman puts it. These creeds (Apostles, Nicene, etc.) have stood the test of time. They are the opposite of fads. The churches employing them are confessing biblical belief via a longstanding statement shared by many Christians around the world and throughout history. The recitation of the Nicene Creed in a biblicist church might also bring to light anti-Trinitarian or other heretical views that certain members hold and that need to be corrected.

At best, a simple liturgical shift to creeds might remind church members that their faith is far sturdier than whatever has caused the latest electronic freakout of our expressivist culture. We can rest easy knowing that we are not inventing the faith in this generation. We are simply passing on the faith once delivered to the saints to the next generation, as generations before us have done. This steady cycle will go on, by Gods grace, until the Great Shepherd returns to gather his church.
Guided by the results from a recent survey it sent out to parents, teachers and students, the Roanoke County School Board decided it will soon vote on a stricter cellphone policy for its high school students before the upcoming school year begins.

And from Tuesdays discussion, it appears a board majority may be in favor of that.

The survey results were presented at a school board work session Tuesday afternoon.

Many school districts in the area have recently reevaluated their cellphone policies. On July 9, Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued Executive Order 33, which directs the Virginia Department of Education to issue guidance for public school divisions to adopt policies for cellphone-free education.

Elementary and middle schools in Roanoke County follow a zero-use policy for mobile devices, in which students are allowed to have their personal devices but they must be turned off and put away for the entire school day. The board is not looking to change this policy.

In July, the survey was sent to parents, students and teachers to gather their input on what changes, if any, it should make to the mobile device policy for high schoolers. The current policy allows high school students to use their cellphones, smart watches and other mobile devices before and after school, during lunch, in hallways in between classes and in the classroom when used for instructional purposes. It also gives teachers the discretion on use in the classroom.

Staff presented the board with three options on what to do with the policy, which were the same options that were presented in the survey: keep the policy as is; prohibit students from using cellphones and other mobile devices in the classroom, but allow them to use them outside of the classroom, like during lunch or in between classes; or make the high school policy mirror that of the elementary and middle schools.

The survey also assessed how concerned respondents are with the connection between student use of mobile devices and issues of student mental health and anxiety and measured this on a scale of one to five, with five being the most concerned. Around 74% of parents who responded to the survey put their concern at a level three or higher. When asked about policy changes, 46% of high school parents were in favor of keeping the current policy. Thirty-three percent were in favor of banning phones during class and the remaining 19% were in favor of banning phones for the entire school day.

Board member Cheryl Facciani pointed out that, after combining the parents in favor of the second and third options, the majority of parents were in favor of changing the policy. Board member Shelley Clemons disagreed.

I think that its misleading and manipulating the results to say that we have this percentage of adults and parents that are saying that theyre asking for change, Clemons said. You have to look at it as three options, were not looking at it as merging two options together. There were three options that were provided, and that means that the largest number of people in each of those categories chose option one. Theres no denying that.

Clemons stated that she felt like a complete ban takes it too far.

I think that we have cited, this board has cited, parental rights on a number of issues over the last few years, and Im not sure why this is any different, Clemons said. I think our parents have spoken pretty loudly.

The majority of high school students that responded had a very low level of concern regarding the connection between their cellphone use and their mental health, and 81% of them were in favor of keeping the policy the same. Ninety-one percent of high school staff put their level of concern at a level three or higher. Twenty percent of high school staff supported keeping the current policy, while 40% supported banning phones in the classroom and 39% supported banning phones for the entire school day.

Facciani felt the policy should be changed according to concerns of staff and teachers.

I dont think you make your decision based on parents, you make a decision based on staff and teachers, she said. The staff and the teachers are the ones who have spoken very clearly, because theyre on the front lines, if you will, boots on the ground, and they have concerns.

Facciani and board member Tim Greenway leaned more toward banning cellphones for the entire day, but Clemons and board member David Linden were in favor of banning cellphones during class time only.

Tammy Newcomb, the school systems executive director of administration, stated that staff recommends that the board change the policy to be stricter and adopt standard consequences across all high schools. The proposed consequences involved taking the students phones away and requiring them to turn their phones into the office at the beginning of the school day if they continue to break the policy.

Chairman Brent Hudson said he in favor of stricter consequences, suggesting that at some point, suspension should be a consequence. Newcomb explained that from her experience, and from the perspective of the high school principals, taking the students phones away will be plenty effective.

They would rather me send them home and suspend them, instead of taking their phones away, Newcomb said.

Superintendent Ken Nicely proposed that the board consider adopting a policy that prohibits high school students from using their cellphones during class time at its next meeting. The board agreed and plans to call a special meeting in order to vote on the matter before school starts.
Russell Tovey in 'The Fortress' Lukas Salna/Viaplay

If you're looking for a way to sap a little of the heat from your Houston summer, gazing at the chilly cityscapes of beautiful Bergen, Norway, in the miniseries "The Fortress" might do the trick. But what lies beneath that cozy image  a country on perpetual lockdown as it takes the extraordinary step of completely shutting out the rest of the world  turns "The Fortress" into a tense, seven-episode techno-thriller that raises many pertinent questions about our increasingly fraught modern times.

At the start, everything seems to be going to plan in the year 2037. President Grieg Amund Herydahl (Tobias Santelmann) had been elected years prior on a platform of severing small, oil-rich, tech-savvy Norway from the world and making it completely self-sufficient. While we don't get a lot of details at the start, the rest of the planet seems to have devolved to the point of destitution, judging from the bedraggled British refugees struggling to enter Norway. Sure, there are small inconveniences (good luck getting real coffee!), yet life seems fairly sweet.

But Esther Winter (Selome Emnetu), a scientist working to maintain healthy food, fish and livestock production, has stumbled across something strange. Local salmon are showing signs of a strange infection and people, including a neighbor, are starting to collapse with a new illness that no one can at first identify. Is the president's promise of safety through separation unraveling?

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'The Fortress' When: Streaming now Where: Viaplay; the Scandinavian streaming service is available in the U.S. as an add-on subscription through Amazon's Prime Video and is also available through other platforms such as Comcast Xfinity, the Roku Channel and Xumo.  (out of 5)

The president's young, careerist speech writer (Eili Harboe, "Succession") is called to put the correct media spin on the origin of the disease. Yet, as the screws get even tighter, even Esther's British-born husband wonders if he will escape the increasingly anti-immigrant sentiments.

Meanwhile, a group of impoverished British refugees is looking for any way to get into a place they believe to be paradise. These include Charlie (Russell Tovey, so good in "Feud," "Being Human" and "Looking," as a father struggling with an infant). He just wants a chance to work again.

The parallels to our current world are obvious  Brexit, COVID-19, the rise of anti-immigrant parties across Europe  but Norwegian creators/writers John Kare Raake and Linn-Jeanethe Kyed have created characters that don't just feel like walking talking points. The result is one of the most thought-provoking series of the summer.
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here.

Dear Care and Feeding,

I have a 6-year-old and rent part of a duplex. Our new neighbors moved in, and they have two slightly older children, both of whom have special needs. I dont know the circumstances, but it is very obvious from the noise, chaos, and their mothers determination to become buddies that they are at the end of their rope.

The first few times we interacted were awful. The neighbor children stole and threw my childs juice, destroyed a toy, and yanked on my senior dogs ears so hard that he snapped (and he has never snapped). Then they both had meltdowns.

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Their mother keeps trying to set up playdates or ask me for favors. I have put it off with excuses that we are busy, but we live literally next door. I cant let my child and our dog run around without them peeking over the short fence that separates us and trying to join in.

I am sympathetic to their troubles, but I have my hands full between being a single mom, working full time, and trying to finish my degree. I miss our old neighbors, who would wave hi and nothing more. What should I do?

Good Fences

Dear Fences,

In the famous Robert Frost poem youve quoted as your sign-off, the narrator is not the one who says, Good fences make good neighbors. Its the guy on the farm next door, the one who insists on fortifying the stone wall between their properties every summer, all the while citing his fathers saying about good fences. But the narrator sees a darkness in his neighbors insistence on rebuilding the wall every yearhis belief that a barrier must stand between them, even as they cooperate, in a neighborly fashion, in the shared task of setting the stones.

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I, too, see something dark in your resistance to your neighbors overtures. How would you feel if the children who moved in next door were neurotypical and the mother wanted to become friends? I suspect youd leap at the opportunity for a playmate for your child. Yet now, faced with a neighbor who perhaps needs your help, youre put out. Youre sympathetic to their troubles, you say, but that sympathy does not extend to neighborliness. Youd rather not be bothered; you pine for the old neighbors, who were satisfied to let the fence keep you from forming any real relationship at all. But thats not how a community works. You share a duplex with this family, and so your lives are intertwined, like it or not.

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Id urge you to try to look past the inconvenience and find a way to build a relationship with this family. Sure, their children might be difficult. But they are precious to your new neighbors, and as fellow human beings on this earth they deserve the chance to become precious to you too. And dont overlook the fact that just as they need you now, so might you (a busy single mom) need their help in the future.

Before I built a wall, Frosts speaker says, Id ask to know / What I was walling in or walling out. What are you walling in when you prefer to keep to yourself? What are you walling out when you wish this family away?

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Update, Aug, 14: Dan Kois published a follow-up to this question. Read it here!

Dear Care and Feeding,

I love my grandchildren, but I am exhausted. I have seven grandkids, and I usually look after one or more of them seven days a week.

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My children have chaotic work schedules and do not seem to understand the toll this is taking on me. Whenever I tell them that we need to figure out the situation and scale back, it starts a fight. Everyone thinks their need is greatest and their situation the most dire. They start fighting about my favoritism and bring up ridiculous events from their childhood. They act more like toddlers refusing to share a toy than adults with children of their own.

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When I retired, I had plans to travel, and now it seems I am just raising my grandchildren. School starts in two weeks. I am this close to saying that Grandma Day Care is permanently closed unless it is a medical emergency. I dont want to draw that line, but I cant keep going on like this.

Can you help me get through to my children?

Very Tired

Dear Very Tired,

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Why dont you want to draw that line? A line needs to be drawn! Your children are taking advantage of you, and youre letting them.

I suggest you take a nice, long trip. Be gone a month, at least, and tell them well in advance that for all of September Grandma will be in Reykjavik. And tell them, too, that when you return youll need to scale down your caretaking for your beloved grandchildren. While you wish you could help them more often, it is harming your well-being and taxing your time and health, so you have to step back.

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Honestly, even drawing the line you suggestunless it is a medical emergencyis likely to create hassles, conflicts, and debates about whose emergency is the most critical. Your children have gotten used to free day care and now feel entitled to it. If youd like to continue helping them, only under circumstances that are more conducive to your health and well-being, you can consider insisting upon a schedule: Each set of parents gets one regular three-hour period per week, for example. Or you can simply shut down operations for a while and tell your children youre happy to field requests but that you wont always be able to fulfill them.

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The key is that you will have to become comfortable saying no to your children. That can be difficult! I suggest pursuing some hobbies, joining some charitable organizations, and scheduling more vacations. This wont stop them from grumbling, at least not right away. But it helps you come into those conversations in a position of greater strength.

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Dear Care and Feeding,

My husband, Kyle, and I have an 8-month-old son, Quinn. Im facing an unconventional dilemma and could use some guidance. A month ago, I had to spend a week caring for my grandmother after she broke her hip in a fall, before I was finally able to arrange for a live-in health aide to stay with her. While I was gone, Kyle entered Quinn in a beauty pageant for babies in a town several hours away in which the grand prize was $10,000. The thing is, this was a beauty pageant for baby girls. Kyle entered Quinn in the contest as a girl (Quinns real name is unisex), and Quinn actually won!

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Im torn about how the money came into our possession. On the one hand, the money Quinn won will be incredibly helpful for his college fund. On the other hand, its acquisition involved deception. Should I tell the truth and return it, or should I swallow my misgivings, let it alone, and be glad Quinn has a good start toward saving for school even if it was obtained through questionable means?

Weighing a Windfall

Dear Weighing,

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This question is fake, but if it were real, I would tell you to keep the money. Who cares! Quinn was the prettiest baby at that pageant, and he deserved to win.

Dear Care and Feeding,

Heres a nice, low-stakes question for you: How long should dibs last? Our son, 15, has been working part time for a year, and hes incredibly proud of his ability to pay his own way. He puts some of it aside for savings and long-term purchases (like computer upgrades) and enjoys spending the rest on clothes and treats.

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Recently, we were out shopping, and he found an unusual flavor of a popular cookie brand, which he bought with his own money. He told his younger sister, 12, that the cookies were in the kitchen and that she was welcome to try one. About a week later, she went to the cupboard and the cookies were gone. She was upset, feeling that hed promised to save her one, but he invoked the You snooze, you lose rule, saying shed had plenty of opportunity over the past week to try one before they were gone.

I dont think the world is ending for anyone involved. But whats interesting is that my wife and I (who are usually on the same page when it comes to parenting issues) are of two different opinions on how to approach this. One of us feels that once the offer was made, our son should have set aside a cookie for whenever his sister was ready to eat it, while the other agrees with him that coming back a week after the offer was made and expecting a cookie to be waiting is not reasonable. If we had brought this case to your family courtroom, how would you rule?

Is That the Way the Cookie Crumbles?

Dear Crumbles,

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This is an excellent question, and Im glad you came to me with it. Before I ruled, I looked back at the history of the word dibs to see if that would yield any clues. Per Merriam-Webster, the term likely comes from a 17th-century childrens game called dibstones, which took many forms but resembled jacks or marbles. By the early 20th century, dibs was commonplace among children calling their ownership of some object or concept.

Native Midwesterners like myself know that the duration of dibs is a subject of great debate following large snowfalls. In cities like Chicago, enterprising shovelers place chairs, milk crates, or frozen pants on the street to call dibs on a parking place for days, weeks, or monthsoften to the annoyance of neighbors who do not believe that shoveling should necessarily convey droit moral to a parking spot until the end of time.

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Within families, dibs are a crucial common law, inarguable and inviolable in determining who gets the last Pop-Tart, who gets to sit in the best chair at the table, or who gets to choose the first game on the Switch. I would argue, though, that a dibs-ing must be acted upon immediately. If, approaching the house after a long road trip, I call dibs on the good bathroom (the one with the Japanese toilet), but then dillydally upon arrival, my dibs must lapse. The Toto is up for grabs.

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In this specific case of a purloined cookie, I polled a representative group of teens and adults and the response was unanimous: Not only is a week much too long to expect someone to save a cookie for you, this was not even a situation in which dibs were called. By their nature, dibs apply only to items whose ownership is communal or in question. These cookies were clearly owned by your son, who kindly offered his sister one of them. But such an offer lasts only the natural life span of a sleeve of cookies, which any reasonable person would expect to be less than seven days. Your son behaved honorably. Your daughter has learned a valuable lesson: When someone offers you a fancy Oreo, eat it.

Dan
Elon Musk is very mad that advertisers dont want to spend their money on X.

X filed a lawsuit against a coalition of advertisers claiming that the coalition violated federal antitrust laws by dissuading leading companies from spending money on X. The all-powerful Global Alliance for Responsible Media conspired  to collectively withhold billions of dollars in advertising revenue from the Musk-owned social media company, the suit claims.

Its a strange lawsuit made completely bizarre by a hostage-style video plea from Linda Yaccarino, the former NBCUniversal advertising chief who was hired as Xs CEO last year to bring back brands and ad buyers that Musk had scared off.

No small group of people should be able to monopolize what gets monetized, Yaccarino said in the two-minute video. She cited a recent report by the House Judiciary Committee which claimed the World Federation of Advertisers, GARMs parent organization, tried to control online speech.

If you were unfamiliar with Elon Musks game, you might think theres some grand conspiracy to keep one of the worlds richest people from getting more money. (OK, maybe that still sounds ridiculous.) But advertisers didnt just fall out of a coconut tree.

First, we should note that Musk is a relative newcomer to the world of advertising. I hate advertising, Musk tweeted in 2019. Tesla, Musks electric car company, famously refused to advertise for most of its corporate history, though it started some modest campaigning in 2023.

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Now, not only does Musk need advertisers to spend money on X, but he thinks that their own refusal to do so, or to do less advertising, illegally deprives him of their money. (Reader, there is nothing illegal about a company choosing where to spend its money.)

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Musks acquisition of Twitter, which made almost all of its money on ads, was bad business from the start. Musk campaigned to buy the company on a platform of restoring free speech for all users, which meant rolling back the content rules and enforcement procedures that the old guard had put in place to both keep advertisers happy and make sure Twitter wasnt a cesspool of hate speech and misinformation.

Immediately after taking control of Twitter, Musk began removing content rules and allowed swarms of formerly banned individuals back on the site, including Nazis, white supremacists, and former President Donald Trump, who was once banned from Twitter for inciting the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol using his @realDonaldTrump account. At the same time, Musk removed blue check marks that signaled users who might be a trustworthy source of information, and then sold them as part of a larger push for subscription revenue, a move that further corrupted the information ecosystem on the platform.

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Contrary to what some people believe, Fortune 500 companies are not, uh, woke. None are paragons of morality and very few care about more than their own bottom lines. But, it is a simple truth of advertising that you, as an advertiser, should not want your adfor shampoo, a scratch-off lottery ticket, a Toyota Camryto appear next to racist rants and raves.

At a New York Times event in November, Musk responded to questions about his own antisemitic posts, apologized, and then immediately said he has no interest in what advertisers want. Dont advertise. If someone is going to try to blackmail me with advertising, blackmail me with money, go fuck yourself. Go fuck yourself. Is that clear? I hope it is. He finished that rant off with Hey, Bob, referring to Bob Iger, the CEO of the Walt Disney Company, which had reduced its spending on X.

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Related From Slate Its Clear Why Elon Musk Is Really Pledging $45 Million a Month to Elect Republicans Read More

X has never been the most effective platform for any marketer. It doesnt offer the user base, targeting capabilities, or results that platforms like Google and Facebook do. There are so-called brand safety risks beyond hate speech: X is a platform for news and information, and sometimes advertisers dont want their ads next to breaking news about war or politics. But Musk has given marketers no reason to stay on the platform amid broader budget reductions across the industry, only insulting them and ignoring their calls to make X an acceptable-enough platform for them to spend money on. After the GARM lawsuit, ad buyers told Adweek that they have to further rethink any activity on the platform now. Why would I want to be in any way, shape, or form involved in a place that wants to sue individual advertisers and the bodies that authentically represent them for choosing to not advertise there? one unnamed buyer said. (X named four advertisersCVS, Mars, Unilever, and the Danish energy company rstedas part of its GARM lawsuit.)

Musk quite simply feels like he is owed companies hard-earned advertising dollars. But he has done nothing to actually court marketers or listen to their real concerns. Musks campaign for free speech has turned out to be nothing more than rebuilding his favorite social media platform in his imageracist, conspiratorial, and unfunny. Faced with the reality that advertisers arent going to hand over their money, Musk is choosing to sue them. How could that plan possibly fail?
Like the award-winning teacher he once was, the Oklahoma state superintendent of public instruction, Ryan Walters, arrived at his presentation with props in tow. Speaking to the Oklahoma Board of Education on June 27, Walters announced his controversial mandate requiring the Bible in public schools while posing with a stack of five books. Among them? A brand-new copy of Martin Luther King Jr.s Our God Is Marching On. A copy of The U.S. Constitution: A Reader, a collection compiled by Hillsdale College professors that represents the separation of church and state as a popular misunderstanding. And finally, three Bibles, including a copy of The Founders Bible, which interleaves the religious text with Christian nationalist writings by discredited historian David Barton. As visual aids to Walters announcement, these volumes spoke volumes.

At the June Board of Education meeting, Walters justified his decision by describing the Bible as a necessary historical document that has inspired American leaders such as Dr. King, whose legacy conservative politicians have increasingly manipulated to their advantage. Going beyond the text of his written memorandum, which states simply that Oklahoma schools must incorporate the Bible  as an instructional support, Walters announced that effective this fall, every teacher, every classroom in the state, will have a Bible in the classroom and will be teaching from the Bible. In late July, he doubled down, issuing a set of instructional support guidelines that decree that a physical copy of the Bible, the United States Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Ten Commandments [must be provided] as resources in every classroom.

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Walters has leaned heavily on historically inaccurate claims that the Bible is, as he stated at the June meeting, one of the most foundational documents used for the Constitution. Yet Walters repeated insistence on a Bible in every classroom shows that his ideological roots lie not with 18th-century framers like Thomas Jeffersonwho placed a library, not a church, at the center of his University of Virginiabut rather with evangelical mass media organizations formed during the 19th century. Like once influential publishers including the American Bible Society and the American Sunday-School Union, Walters understands that the power of print has as much to do with the physical presence of books as it does with the intellectual work of reading.

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The American Bible Society was founded in 1816 as a national organization with a single goal: distributing the Bible. Early adoption of cutting-edge printing technologies enabled the society to produce its own inexpensive Bibles on an unprecedented scale. Buoyed by its rapid progress, in 1829 the group launched a campaign to provide a Bible to every American family that needed onea plan the organization dubbed General Supply.

Two other national evangelical publishing organizationsthe American Sunday-School Union and the American Tract Societysoon followed suit with similar projects. As media historian David Paul Nord has documented, combined general supply efforts of the 1830s alone resulted in the publication of approximately 1 million Bibles, 15 million religious tracts, and more than 500,000 Sunday school books.

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By attempting to circulate publications in every part of the land, including regions where print was scarce, general supply programs provided Americans with inexpensive reading materials and contributed to the increase of national literacy rates. But 19th-century evangelical publishers also had another, less generous goal in birthing American mass media: ousting books they didnt like from readers hands.

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All three national organizations hoped that mass supply of religious print would stimulate new demand. They also solicited support for their activities by fueling 19th-century fears about the mental and physical effects of reading improper books.

At the forefront of this anxious politics was the Sunday-School Union, which argued that secular books including novels were sweet poison for children. For the union, whose leaders viewed the Bible as essential to the proper training of the young, the solution lay in publishing vast quantities of religious childrens texts and introducing them into schoolsincluding schools unaffiliated with the organization. By doing so, union leaders believed they could force out of circulation those [books] which tend to mislead the mind.

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Such statements advance a logic of physical replacement as much as they insist on the persuasive power of Gods word. If you could just get the right books in the same room as young readers, the Sunday-School Union reasoned, good little books would take up space, money, and attention that might otherwise go toward bad books.

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This 19th-century history raises questions about what, exactly, Walters hopes to achieve by requiring a Bible in every Oklahoma classroom. Because by every classroom, he really means every classroom.

Although Walters July guidelines detail only how the Bible might be incorporated into humanities instruction, he has stated in interviews that the Bible will also be integrated into the study of math and science. Walters has argued that the Bible should be taught to explain its influence on Western civilization and the history of the United Statesa proposal, its worth noting, that mistakes the text for its reception history. But his insistence on placing physical copies of the Bible in every classroom indicates that the intended scope of his program is much broader, even as he has insisted that classroom Bibles are not to be used for religious purposes such as  proselytizing. As 19th-century religious organizations well knew, getting religious books in as many places as possible is itself a form of evangelical activity. By implementing his 21st-century version of general supply, Walters promises to use the Bible to occupy both valuable instructional time and the public school classroom as site.

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Like the paper-obsessed Donald Trump, who inspired the June mandate and has himself published a Bible better suited for display than reading, Walters understands that books make good props for the art of hijacking attention. That he wants Bibles in the classroom rather than a more obvious place for booksthe school libraryalso channels the desire of his evangelical forebears to control what children read.

If 19th-century language about vice-engendering, lust-influencing, and soul-destroying literature sounds oddly familiar, youre not wrong. In Oklahoma, Walters has joined efforts to ban LGTBQ+ childrens books and campaigned for the removal of pornographic material from school libraries. Walters Bible mandate may appear to divert attention from the state Supreme Courts late-June rejection of a proposed Catholic charter school supported by taxpayersan initiative that Walters supported. But the Bible mandate also follows an equally important Oklahoma Supreme Court decision made earlier in June, which checked Walters authority over school libraries by determining that decisions about library book selection should remain with local school boards. Although the court shot down Walters attempts to wrest control over school libraries, by demanding the inclusion of the Bible in the classroom it seems that Walters has found a way to bypass librariansand put children in the same room as his preferred readingafter all.

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As the school year approaches, Walters has yet to answer questions about which Bible edition he would require should his plan be allowed to proceed. Hopefully its not The Founders Bible, which Barton peppers with out-of-context quotes from historical figures including Thomas Paine, a Deist who once described the Bible as a book of lies. Obvious legal questions aside, the presence of Bartons Christian nationalist book at the Board of Education meeting sends a damning message about Walters ability and willingness to uphold basic educational standards. This message has not been lost on Oklahoma school districts, several of which have stated publicly that they will not change their curricula despite the July guidelines. In a subtle clapback to Walters, Jenks Public Schools in suburban Tulsa have insisted they will use only approved resources aligned to the Oklahoma Academic Standards in their classrooms.

In the wake of Walters mandate, advocacy organizations have stressed that public schools are not Sunday schools. But Walters would do well to take a cue from the American Sunday-School Union, which, for all its flaws, valued childrens desire for knowledge and believed, without a doubt, that free access to school libraries was of vital importance to the next generations future.
This story is published in partnership with Open Campus, a nonprofit newsroom focused on higher education. Subscribe to College Inside, an Open Campus newsletter on the future of postsecondary education in prison.

Is there a right way to forgive? Lety Z. Montoya wondered out loud. If I dont feel these positive things that come after, did I do it wrong? Did I not mean it?

A few of her classmates nodded their heads. Thank you for saying that, said Kristen Discola, a sociology professor at California State University, Los Angeles. People often think that it would be a betrayal of their brother, their mother, their son if they allowed themselves to forgive.

Discola studies forgiveness among individuals who lost loved ones to homicide. Her research looks at what factors lead people to forgiveor not forgivethose who killed their friends and relatives.

Forgiveness is a topic that this particular group of students grapples with often.

Collectively, the 23 women enrolled in Discolas course have spent hundreds of years in prison. Many were convicted of violent crimes, which is why Discolas research resonates with them so much. They see the relevance of her work for their victims and themselves.

Studying forgiveness gives me hope for myself and for the survivors of my crime, one student, who asked not to be named because she didnt want to retraumatize her victims, said from the back of the classroom. Just because they are not forgiving me, it doesnt mean that they are stuck in a life of trauma.

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Exploring forgiveness through an academic lens helps the women examine their own experiences of causing harm and being harmed. By studying societal and theoretical views of the topic, they confront their own histories.

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Every Monday evening in June and July, Discola drove through rush-hour traffic to the California Institution for Women in Chino. The sociology course is part of a liberal-studies degree offered through Cal State L.A.one of the two bachelors programs available to women in the states prison system.

Discola studies criminal victimology, a subfield of criminology focused on the victim experience. Her 2021 book Redefining Murder, Transforming Emotion is based on interviews she did over the course of three years with people who lost loved ones to homicide.

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For Discola, forgiveness is not an emotion but rather a process of emotional transformation. It looks different for everyone. Some people never forgive their perpetrators and continue to harbor anger or a desire for revenge, a concept Discola calls unforgiveness. For others, it might mean letting go of negative emotions like hatred but still wanting to see someone held accountablethat is, a kind of forgive but dont forget. Still others might eventually get to a place where they can even extend empathy and goodwill toward someone who caused them harm.

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Those are distinctions that Discolas students understand almost intuitively, but the class provides an opportunity to put their own experience into a broader context and gives them a vocabulary to describe it.

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Discola said that some people might mistakenly equate forgiveness with condoning the act itself. She describes how one student, who killed her ex-husband, found this insight particularly helpful in understanding her childrens difficulty forgiving her. This new perspective allowed the woman to separate the concept of forgiveness from condoning the crime, providing a way to untangle complex emotions.

Many of the students are also focused on the potential for those affected by their crimes to find inner peace and healing through forgiveness, Discola said.

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There are a lot of self-help groups and other rehabilitative programs in prison focused on supporting an individual dealing with trauma, but incarcerated students often mention that studying subjects like psychology and sociology gives them unique insight into what led them to make the choices that landed them behind bars.

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Many of these women are both victims of and perpetrators of crime. In California, about a quarter of women incarcerated for homicide are serving time for a crime directly linked to their experience of intimate partner violence. Nationally, more than three-fourths of incarcerated women have been physically or sexually abused prior to prison.

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Students in the class spoke about first being victims, then causing harm to others. They said that although they had participated in self-help groups, they continued to be angry as they struggled to forgive their own abusers.

Multiple women said that reading Discolas book instilled empathy because it allowed the class to hear victims stories and understand the forgiveness process they had gone through. One woman likened the class to restorative justice events, which encourage perpetrators of crime to take accountability and meet the needs of the victims to repair the harms resulting from the crime.

Some of the students in this class have also lost loved ones to violence. Years before Montoya went to prison, her brother Jimmy was murdered at the age of 21. His killers have never been found, so Montoya doesnt have a specific person to forgive. For a long time, she believed she needed to hold on to her anger to validate the pain from his death.

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But now she has empathy for whoever killed Jimmy. Im assuming they were young, lost in the lifestyle, and trying to fit in, she said. I forgive them, but that does not mean I dont want them to have their day in court and serve time.

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Her experience echoes Discolas findings about some of the factors that lead people to forgive: identifying with the perpetrator and understanding the rules by which they were operating. Many of her interviewees who said they forgave their loved ones killers came from the same communities and could understand the factors that might have led to violence. They are the same kind of people that I am, Montoya said.

In 2012, at the age of 32, Montoya was convicted of a gang-related murder. She was originally sentenced to 51 years to life. Last year she was resentenced to 25 years to life.

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My victims said that they forgive me yet they still dont want to see me free, Montoya said. I get it.

Montoya and others have realized that people can let go of their anger and rage without extending any goodwill toward them. Its almost like it gave these students hope that their victims can still find healing and still find forgiveness, even though they want them to stay in prison, Discola said.

Sometimes, though, the idea of forgiveness sits in the middle of an uncomfortable tug-of-war between accountability and belief in second chances.

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Last fall, Bernice DeAnda, 59, went before the parole board for the first time after serving more than 25 years for murdering her boyfriend. She said it was the first time that she had been in proximity to his family since her trial, in the late 1990s. She had long held out hope that they might eventually forgive her, she said, but when her victims brother testified at her parole hearing, he said she should not be forgiven at this time.

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The family members of DeAndas victim stated that they do not want her to get out of prison but they know that she will come home someday, according to transcripts from her parole hearing.

DeAnda will likely be getting out of prison sooner than expected. She was originally sentenced to 36 years to life, but she is now eligible for parole because of recent sentencing reforms for older prisoners as well as receiving time off her sentence for participating in prison programs and education.

Related From Slate J.D. Vances Views on Stepparents Are Straight Out of Project 2025 Read More

Because of the class, she has learned that she has no control over and cannot have expectations that the family will ever forgive her. She takes full responsibility for her actions, she said, but has accepted that I havent been forgiven and I can no longer let it stagnate me emotionally because it may never happen and my life needs to move forward.

Other members of the class expressed similar sentiments. Laura Lutrell Purviance, who is serving a sentence of 50 years to life for murder, said that the class has helped her understand that people are going to feel how they are going to feel and she has to be OK with that. That doesnt mean that I have to stop living my life, she said. Its just being able to respect thats what their position is.

The hardest journey of all might be learning to accept forgiveness. One woman said she was given an undeserving amount of forgiveness at her trial and she didnt know how to handle it.

For her part, Montoya was paralyzed with guilt for the first several years of her sentence. She felt unworthy of laughing or enjoying a meal. But she eventually realized that by not forgiving herself, she was continuing the harm to herself and her own family.

She started doing self-help groups, became a drug and alcohol counselor, started a gang intervention program, and enrolled in college. Next year, shell go before the parole board for the first time. She said that Discolas class has made her want to strive to do more, regardless of the outcome of that hearing. I feel really good about the trajectory of my life, Montoya said. Guilt, shame, addiction, abandonment no longer hold me prisoner.
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

As Conroe elected officials prepare to discuss a recent investigation into the city's animal shelter operations Wednesday, Texas records show the company contracted to run the shelter failed to pay its franchise tax and its right to do business in Texas was involuntary ended.

According to the Texas State Comptroller's website, Care Corporation's status was ended in March 2023. As of Wednesday, it remained inactive, state records show.

According to information obtained by the Houston Chronicle, former Police Chief Jeff Christy last presented the contract with Care Corp., for the operation of the animal shelter to Conroe City Council for renewal in November 2022. That contract, worth more than $500,000, was for the term of Jan. 1, 2023, through Jan. 1, 2024.

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Nancy Mikeska, assistant city administrator and director of community development, said the contract was automatically renewed in September 2023 for operations in 2024.

Sharon Hopkins, owner of Care Corp., could not be reached for comment.

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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.

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In 2016, when the city moved to renew its contract with Hopkins and Care Corp.

Hopkins has not responded to requests for comment.

Investigation finds lack of basic care

The city recently investigated the animal shelter's operations, after the lack of treatment for a puppy brought in on July 7 who was allowed to chew off its badly injured leg. The 3-month-old puppy was never provided veterinary care until it was rescued by a citizen and the damaged leg removed.

The investigation by the Conroe Police Department revealed gaps in the contract, including no on-call veterinarian, lack of basic care, lack of emergency equipment, medications, and soaring euthanasia rates.

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The investigation also revealed the firm's liability insurance lapsed in October 2023. However, according to the investigation report, Care Corp., officials provided investigators with a policy showing insurance renewal in July and good through July 2025.

Only cash adoptions

Several complaints received by city officials were concerns over Care Corp., only accepting cash for adoptions.

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The investigation report states Care staff advised that for the past few months their credit card reader has been down and it was unclear whether the reader was city owned or original bought by the first owners of Care Corp. (Hopkins) advised that she is working with the bank now to get credit card cubes or a replacement card reader. All CASH ONLY signs were removed from the front doors of the shelter in the meantime.

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Mayor Duke Coon called the situation with Care Corp., unacceptable after calling for an investigation last month into the treatment of the puppy with a badly injured leg.

Council is scheduled to discuss the shelter and the investigation at its workshop 2 p.m. Wednesday.

We as the city of Conroe need to do a better job of managing those who have contractual agreements with us, Coon said. We can improve.

Councilwoman Marsha Porter said she would make every resource available to improve conditions at the shelter.

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Activists are warning of a major intervention in the national park.

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In the heart of the Demanovska dolina valley, central Slovakia, the owner of the Jasna resort plans to build the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridge.

The bridge should span over 840 metres, connecting the Priehyba locality with Pekna vyhliadka viewpoint, and should be installed 120 metres above the valley floor, reports the My Liptov website.

Find out more about region of folklore, national parks and modern attractions in our Zilina Region Travel Guide.

The site is located within Low Tatras National Park.

"While the entire region thrives on the winter season in Jasna, the summer offerings still lack something truly attractive that would enhance visitors' options and serve as a reason for a summer holiday in Liptov," explained Jiri Trumpes, director of the resort.

The footbridge is planned to be two-way.

The resort is currently preparing project documentation, which they aim to complete by the end of the year.

"The initial estimates suggest costs exceeding 10 million," added the director.

https://sk.frame.mapy.cz/s/cujegagumu

Jan Durica, head of the building authority in the village of Demanovska Dolina, has said that there is currently no official request for a permit for the proposed suspension bridge in the village.

The village has faced criticism over extensive development. In 2021, the village council adopted an amendment to the zoning plan, prohibiting further construction in areas designated as open land. They are now working on a completely new zoning plan, notes My Liptov.

Activists have already disapproved the idea of a suspension bridge in the village.

"In Demanovska Dolina, there are dozens of kilometres of hiking trails offering stunning views and scenery. There is no need to add more artificial elements to this environment," said the Pre dolinu civic association.

Michal Kica (Demokrati), former deputy environment minister, has criticised not only the proposed bridge but also other development projects reportedly planned for Jasna. In addition to the bridge, these include a new ski slope, a cable car, and a parking garage.

"If the park authorities approve the developers' plans, it would constitute a disaster," he warned, adding that the longest bridge will be at the edge of a protected bird habitat.

Construction works in Jasna in 2020/2021. (Source: Lubica Stancikova)

Road construction in Demanovska dolina in 1929. (Source: SMOPAJ)
Matej Drlickas firing comes shortly after he received a prestigious award in France.

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On Tuesday morning, Matej Drlicka, head of the Slovak National Theatre (SND), opened his door in a dressing gown to find two burly men and a Culture Ministry officer waiting. Without a meeting with Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova (SNS nom.), Drlicka received a decree informing him of his dismissal from the position.

Matej Drlicka has been dismissed without knowing the reasons why, as the culture minister has not communicated with him.

Drlickas departure comes shortly after he received a prestigious award in France, a recognition shared with notable figures such as Paulo Coelho, George Clooney, Meryl Streep, and Vaclav Havel.

On Tuesday evening, Minister Simkovicova provided an explanation for Drlickas dismissal via her Telegram account. Among her reasons were multiple instances over the past six months when Drlicka had criticised her ministry. Notably, she also attributed responsibility to him for a chandelier that fell during a performance at the national theatre.

The broader management team at the Slovak National Theatre also remains unclear about the reasons for Drlickas dismissal.
Another petition for culture minister's removal, trip to Myjava, and NAKA's end.

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Hello. Here is the Tuesday, August 6 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

Culture minister fires national theatre director

Former SND director Matej Drlicka and Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova. (Source: TASR)

Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova (nominated by the nationalist Slovak National Party) has dismissed Matej Drlicka from his position as general director of the Slovak National Theatre.

The minister sent an official and two bodyguards to deliver the news to Drlicka personally. Simkovicova herself posted the reasons for the dismissal on the social media platform Telegram, including an incident involving a chandelier falling during a performance at the national theatre.

Drlicka, who had led the theatre since 2021, recently received a prestigious honour in France.

The opposition has condemned the ministers move as an attack on artists and labelled the minister as a destroyer of culture.

Her reign at the Culture Ministry will be remembered only for spreading hoaxes, embarrassing appearances on conspiracy YouTube channels, vanity, harassment of artists, attacks on citizens, incompetence, and the devastation of the public broadcaster RTVS, the Slovak Arts Council, and now the national theatre, wrote Branislav Grohling, leader of the opposition party Freedom and Solidarity.

Last week, Simkovicova faced public humiliation when she was booed at a folklore festival in Terchova, northern Slovakia. She has also recently been criticised for disrespecting Slovak traditional dress.

MORE STORIES FROM THE SLOVAK SPECTATOR WEBSITE

Police: Slovakias National Crime Agency (NAKA), which investigates major crimes such as corruption and terrorism, is set to be dismantled by the end of August.

Business: In the Myjava regions kopanice, known for its plum and fruit trees used in brandy production, entrepreneurs Mariana Turakova and Lubos Straka are working to preserve this tradition.

Investigation: Martina Babacsova, the third head of the Gorilla corruption case investigation, has announced her departure from the police force.

If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription with no ads and a print copy of The Slovak Spectator sent to your home in Slovakia. Thank you.

TRAVEL STORY

Why visit Myjava

The Zemans own a lavender farm in the village of Poriadie in the Myjava region. (Source: Courtesy of Violet Hill)

Our colleague Jozef Rynik recently explored the Myjava district, located near the Czech border, to uncover what the area offers visitors. Join him as he takes you on a tour of a lavender farm and a local distillery.

EVENT

Celebrate the Roma

Young Roma talents during a performance. (Source: Dive maky)

For 19 years, the non-profit organisation Dive maky has been dedicated to nurturing young Roma talent. This Saturday, they are hosting a gala evening in downtown Bratislava (Hviezdoslavovo namestie), which will bring a unique Roma spirit and a wealth of inspiring stories to the city centre.

Admission is free. The event starts at 18:00.

IN OTHER NEWS

Prominent figures from the cultural scene have launched a public online petition calling for the immediate dismissal of Martina Simkovicova from her position as culture minister. They write: In nearly a year in office, she has offered nothing but the destruction of the entrusted department.

They write: In nearly a year in office, she has offered nothing but the destruction of the entrusted department. The Slovak Environmental Inspectorate, in connection with the helicopter flight over the Mala Fatra National Park, found a violation of the Nature and Landscape Protection Act. The helicopter was carrying Deputy Environment Minister Filip Kuffa. (SITA)

The helicopter was carrying Deputy Environment Minister Filip Kuffa. (SITA) Education and human rights experts are urging Education Minister Tomas Drucker (Hlas) to halt the pilot project for Rakusys first Roma school.

The young man who pointed a replica gun at Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Hlas) at a fair in Stropkov, eastern Slovakia, last week had previously served time in prison for manslaughter. In May 2020, at the age of 15, he fatally beat a man.

In May 2020, at the age of 15, he fatally beat a man. The police are re-investigating the call for the resignation of Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova, which was signed by 188,000 people at the beginning of this year. The minister had questioned the validity of the petition. Initially, the police closed the case after two months, stating there were no grounds for criminal proceedings. The minister has now approached the police again, requesting further investigation into the matter. (Dennik N)

The trial of businessman Marian Kocner, known for the Donovaly and Bac cases, began at the Specialised Criminal Court in Banska Bystrica on August 6, 2024. In the photo, Marian Kocner (left), who is considered the mastermind behind the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak, is seen in the courtroom on Tuesday. His lawyer and PM Robert Ficos advisor Marek Para sits on the right. The court had to adjourn the trial until August 15. Kocner was the only one to come to the trial in person. (Source: TASR)

WEATHER FOR WEDNESDAY: Expect mostly clear to partly cloudy skies on Wednesday, with occasional cloud cover. During the day, temperatures will reach between 27C and 32C, with cooler conditions around 25C in the northern regions. (SHMU)

AUGUST 7 NAME DAY IN SLOVAKIA: Stefania

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While the opposition has announced a protest against Culture Minister Simkovicovas actions, a second petition calling for her removal once again seems to be a success.

Former SNG director Alexandra Kusa (r) and former SND director Matej Drlicka (l) during a press conference outside the Slovak National Gallery in Bratislava on August 7, 2024. (Source: TASR)

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The day after criticising the dismissal of the national theatre director, Alexandra Kusa also found herself out of a managerial job at the Slovak National Gallery.

The reasons are simple: the minister doesnt want to cooperate with me., Kusa told the Sme daily. Theres nothing in the dismissal decree.

Kusa had worked as a curator at the Slovak National Gallery (SNG) since 2000 before becoming its director in 2010. Under her leadership, the gallery completed an extensive and long-delayed renovation costing 79 million, the largest public building investment in Slovak history, which even garnered praise from abroad.

Visitors can leave a message of support on the gallerys courtyard fence Visitors can create their own note or pick up a free piece of paper at the cafe in the national gallery in Bratislava to write what they like most about the SNG. Source: Slovak National Gallery (SNG)

The Culture Ministry, led by right-wing nationalist Martina Simkovicova, a nominee of the Slovak National Party, cited unacceptable conduct by Kusa during the gallerys renovation as the reason for her dismissal. The ministry pointed to alleged managerial failures and a conflict of interest, accusing Kusa of being the daughter of a partner in the company that initially won the renovation contract. According to the ministry, Kusa, as director, signed amendments to the 2005 contract with the firm managed by her father, Martin. The ministry also criticised Kusa for the recent presentation of Slovakia at the Venice Biennale, claiming that Slovak culture and art were insufficiently promoted at the event.
Dusan Kovacik, an important figure for Prime Minister Robert Fico, has been convicted of corruption and is now facing charges in two additional major cases.

Former special prosecutor Dusan Kovacik in a courtroom, as portrayed in 2023. (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco)

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Dusan Kovacik, the former special prosecutor who served from 2004, was released from prison on Wednesday afternoonat least for now.

Kovacik was convicted in 2021 of accepting a 50,000 bribe and leaking information from investigation files, resulting in a 14-year prison sentence. In 2022, the Supreme Court reduced his sentence to eight years. He was also ordered to pay 100,000, a sum he has yet to pay, writes the Sme daily.

I want to thank all the members of the prison guard, Kovacik said upon his release from the prison in Dubnica nad Vahom, in western Slovakia.

Thanks to the current justice minister, Boris Susko of the Smer party, who filed an extraordinary appeal to the Supreme Court on August 7, Kovacik is now free and could theoretically travel abroad. An incentive came from Kovaciks lawyer, Erik Magal, who had filed a similar motion months ago. The court could not act on it earlier as the Justice Ministry had requested the case file.

This is a standard institute of our legal system, Minister Susko said of the extraordinary appeal in a four-minute video on Facebook.

video //www.youtube.com/embed/mdusZM2Q-g8

Kovacik released without restrictions
Quincy Hall gets a gold in the Olympic 400 meters with yet another US comeback on the Paris track

Quincy Hall, of the United States, lane eight, wins the men's 400-meter final at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

SAINT-DENIS, France (AP)  As the flash of red, white and blue streaked past one sprinter  then the next, then the next  the American man delivering the latest out-of-nowhere comeback on the track said he had one thing going through his mind: Get home, son! Get home, son!

Quincy Hall got home in first, then fell to the ground and did snow angels.

Just another routine day in a come-from-behind kind of Olympics for the U.S.A.

Hall reeled in three runners down the stretch of the 400-meter final Wednesday to deliver another heart-stopping win for his country at the Stade de France. He finished in 43.40 seconds, beating Britain's Matthew Hudson-Smith by .04 seconds; they are now the fourth- and fifth-fastest men in history at the distance.

Hall's late push came the evening after American Cole Hocker rocked his sport by coming from way back to beat the favorites in a memorable mens 1500.

Add in Noah Lyles, whose only lead in his 100-meter thriller Sunday came at the exact point he crossed the finish line, and it's easy to see a pattern.

Ive got determination, Hall said. Thats what got me to that line. A lot of hurt, a lot of pain.

The win came about an hour after Lyles advanced to the final of the 200 meters despite finishing second to Letsile Tebogo in his semifinal. Lyles will race for the gold medal Thursday.

Things did not look good for Hall with 100 meters to go

Things looked bad for Hall, a 26-year-old who starred at South Carolina and who breeds dogs, as the eight sprinters approached the final curve.

He was 5 or so meters behind Hudson-Smith and 2012 champion Kirani James, both to his left, and as they rounded the bend, Hall was making up ground on Jareem Richards to his outside. It looked to be shaping up as a good battle for bronze.

With his arms pumping low and wide and his head bobbing, Hall passed them all, then thrust his chest out to beat the Brit. Hall fell to the ground and scissored his arms and legs back and forth  snow angels in 80-degree weather on the bright purple track.

I just wanted to keep doing what my coach told me to do, just keep driving and keep driving and get home, Hall said.

Lost in that chaos was Samukonga, the Zambian, who also came from nowhere to take third.

Hall is the first American since LaShawn Merritt in 2008 to capture gold in the one-lap race that the country dominated for decades before that. He joins the likes of Michael Johnson, Jeremy Wariner and Lee Evans among the champions the United States has produced in the most tactical sprint on the track program.

I knew these guys would get out try to see who they could throw off their race, he said.

Turns out, not him.

The new champs reaction when he crossed the line: I just won. Its over. Next four years, I can say Im Olympic champion.

US takes silver and almost pulls upset in steeplechase

Moroccos Soufiane El Bakkali defended his title in mens steeplechase, finishing in 8 minutes, 6.05 seconds for a .36-second win over Americas Kenneth Rooks.

Rooks had the lead heading into the homestretch and was looking to pull off a massive upset, but El Bakkali overtook him.

Rooks still beat his personal best by almost 9 seconds to capture the second silver over three Olympics in the event for America.

Evan Jager finished second in 2016.

Australia reaches new heights with pole vault win

Nina Kennedys title in pole vault gave Australia its 18th gold medal of the Paris Games, an Olympic record for the country.

Kennedy cleared 4.95 meters to beat defending champion Katie Moon of the U.S.

France in the mix in 400 hurdles but must face Warholm

One of Frances up-and-coming track stars, Clement Ducos, outraced Tokyo bronze medalist Alison dos Santos to the line to finish second in the semifinals of the mens 400 hurdles.

The prize for Ducos: A rematch with world-record holder Karsten Warholm of Norway, who won that heat easily in 47.67.

Warholm and American Rai Benjamin are expected to vie for the title in Saturday's final. Dos Santos, the Brazilian bronze medalist in a super-fast final three years ago in Tokyo, will also be in the lineup.

Completely crazy what Ive done here, Ducos said. Im not scared of anything. There are people around me racing really well and posting really good times, but I have to believe I can get a medal."

Jamaica wins another medal ... in the field

Roje Stona won gold for Jamaica in the mens discus, setting an Olympic record with a personal-best of 70 meters (229 feet, 8 inches) on his fourth attempt. That gives traditional sprint powerhouse Jamaica four medals in field events so far at the Paris Games  compared to just one on the track.

___

AP Summer Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games
Welcome to The Sprudge Twenty Interviews presented by Pacific Barista Series. For a complete list of 2024 Sprudge Twenty honorees, please visit sprudge.com/twenty.

For this years Sprudge Twenty, I am honored to nominate my brother, John Di Ruocco, Mr. Espresso Co-owner and VP of Coffee.

We, as a company, often tell our founding storyour father, Carlo Di Ruocco, pursuing his American dream, carrying the craft of wood roasting coffee from his native Salerno, Italy, to Northern California, where he established a place for exceptional espresso at dining tables in the regions earliest, iconic farm-to-table establishments, led by luminary chefs, trailblazers of the 70s and 80s. Its a rich story steeped in history, and honored extensively.

From my perspective, the coffee story continues through my brother. John assumed his role as torchbearer at an early age with a grace and vision that has positioned Mr. Espresso as an enduring industry anomaly in the very best waya coffee roaster that has defied coffee waves. John was only 11 years old when our father started importing espresso machines from Italy, but it was clear that coffee was in his DNA. John faithfully rode with our father on machine repair calls and tinkered with any he could at home. After John graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in Architecture, it was not long before he returned to his passion, the coffee roastery.

When I joined the family business in 2001, John had already moved from roastmaster to Director of Coffee, where in retrospect he was bridging the gap between the second wave of commodity coffee and the third wave of contemporary, informed values around coffee, from farm to cup. John was uniquely finding the place that honored our fathers Italian tradition of handcrafted, wood-roasted coffee, while embracing newer values that honored those at the heart of what we do, our coffee producers at origin.

Johns developing philosophy informed the coffee program he built based on those values. Recognizing the duality of sustainability extends to natural resources and human resources, John was instrumental in advancing the Certified Organic coffee program as an early adopter in 1992, and the Fair Trade USA designation in 1999, one of the first U.S. coffee roasters to do so.

Most recently, John, our sister Laura, and I opened Mr. Espressos first retail outlet, The Caffe by Mr. Espresso. With The Caffe, we pay homage to our familys coffee legacy in the Italian espresso, wood roasting tradition. The space has been recognized for its simplistic, contemporary beauty, with prominent wood features, a 17-foot-wide oak slab bar and hanging art installation, subtly remind us of the wood roast. The award-winning ceramic cupware was designed for an optimum temperature while consuming. Beyond the contemporary aesthetic, are subtle nods to the Italian coffee bar experience, including no queue for ordering. Just find a spot at the bar. John tapped into his inner architect to advise on many of the key elements. And, hes behind the coffee, of course.

I see The Caffe as a metaphor for what John has done so well for Mr. Espresso, offering a bridge between the traditional and the modern. Defying convention. Opening the first Caffe in the companys 45th year. Perpetuating a 100+ year-old craft to produce award-winning coffees. Things that take courage.

After working side-by-side for more than two decades, John continues to inspire me with his undying passion for his craft, his boundless dedication to the global coffee community, and his fearlessness to do it all his way. Im sharing his story with the hope that others in our industry can be inspired to do coffee their way.

Nominated by Luigi Di Rocco

How many years total have you worked in the coffee industry?

Around 4550 years

What is your current role in coffee?

VP of Coffee at Mr. Espresso

What was your first coffee job?

Holding the flashlight for my dad. In the early days of Mr. Espresso in the 1970s, the coffee business was a side hustle for my dad. He had a full-time job during the week and we would go out on weekends to repair and install espresso machines. I was about 10 years old and one of my main duties was holding the flashlight, in addition to handing him tools and helping carry equipment.

Did you experience a life-changing moment of coffee revelation early in your career?

Coffee has changed and defined my life but there has not been one clear moment of revelation. It has been more of a slow evolution or development.

What facet of the coffee industry has changed the most during your career?

When we first started Mr. Espresso, people did not know what espresso was: We spent the first 10 years explaining what an espresso machine is. Then we spent the next 10 years explaining the difference between an espresso, cappuccino, and latte. I never imagined that espresso would become so mainstream; that seemed like a really far-fetched idea at the time.

Is there a person or persons who served as your mentor early in your coffee career? How did they impact you?

First and foremost, it would be my father. He set the bar for quality and authenticity in a time that espresso was widely misunderstood. In those early years, espresso was simply defined as a dark roasted coffee that was prepared from an espresso machine. There was little understanding of what it really was, so the coffee being prepared bore little resemblance to a properly prepared espresso. It would have been easier to just go along with what other people were doing, but my father believed that there was a demand for an authentic Italian espresso from quality beans. In the end, that was the key to his success. In addition to that, my father set the bar for hard work, determination and his ability to connect with people.

Whats something about the coffee industry youd most like to see change?

Id like to see more traditional specialty coffeesthe coffees most specialty consumers consumeget a little more recognition. Right now, everyone is promoting their super specialty Gesha anaerobic or whatnot. That is good to a point, but we should be pushing the envelope for quality and what is possible, returning more money to the producers. The reality is that the super special coffees only appeal to a small set of consumers. The pressure to provide these coffees creates a situation where there are more super specialty coffees than there are buyers. That often leaves someone along the line with a coffee that cost a lot to produce that they cannot sell at a price that meets the cost.

Do you make coffee at home? If so, tell us how you brew!

During the week I make a cappuccino first thing in the morning. I cant start my day without it. On days that I stay home, itll range from espresso to flash brew.

What is your idea of coffee happiness?

Id like to see an industry that is detached from the C market and the price of coffee is based on the cost of production. Some small roasters are able to do it but it is difficult for a roaster with any scale to do it. We have long relationships with producers and buy good coffees at good premiums, but most of those premiums are usually tied to the C market in one way or another.

Today, trading is dominated by speculators who have nothing to do with producing or roasting coffee; for every bag of coffee products, 20-30 bags are traded on the exchanges. This creates a situation where, for the most part, the C price has little to do with the cost of production. Speculators are the one who benefit most from this system and small producers often sell coffee below the cost of production.

Whats one piece of advice you would give someone getting their start in the coffee industry today?

Find your niche. Today, coffee is so big that you can approach coffee from many different directions. You dont need to do what everyone else is doing. And stay off the internet, or at least dont spend as much time on it. Use your own instincts and curiosity to create your own coffee experience and perspective.

Thank you.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/dont-kick-the-left-wing-in-the-teeth-harris-unveils-new-running-mate-1119662901.html

'Don't Kick the Left Wing in the Teeth': Harris Unveils New Running Mate

'Don't Kick the Left Wing in the Teeth': Harris Unveils New Running Mate

Sputnik International

Tim Walz, 60, is the Minnesota governor who has a history of swaying Republican districts with his more progressive policies.

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Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen her running mate for the 2024 US presidential election. Tim Walz, 60, is a Minnesota governor who has a history of swaying Republican districts with progressive policies. Dan Lazare, an independent investigative journalist and author, joined Sputniks The Critical Hour Tuesday to discuss Harris pick.I don't want to exaggerate, certainly, but he has been on the progressive side. So, I guess Harris chose the guy who she thinks will unite, best unite the Democratic Party's various factions, he added.Walz was responsible for kicking off a new, and now popular, attack against former President Donald Trump and his running mate Ohio Senator JD Vance by labeling the two as weird." The label has resonated with Harris supporters and has proven difficult for Trump and other Republicans to respond to.I think there probably will be a debate after all this maneuvering takes place. I mean, I'd be very surprised if no debate occurs, number one. Number two, I've been saying all along that I think that Harris may actually be a better campaigner than people expect, Lazare said.Trump has reportedly backed out of a planned debate with Harris as he struggles to find a way to attack his new opponent. The 78-year-old previously said he was prepared to do 10 debates with President Joe Biden, but is now dodging a debate with Harris who still plans to appear on September 10 on ABC, regardless of whether or not Trump is present. Trump has said he would like to change the debate's platform so it can be held by Fox News and would prefer for it to take place before a full arena audience...All the stuff about Tim Walz being a nice guy and progressive, that's just window dressing. There is no doubt that the Democratic Party and the Washington foreign policy establishment are just arm and arm, and there's no deviation whatsoever from that war-like foreign policy, Lazare explained. I am sure that Harris will pursue exactly the same policy in the Ukraine and in Gaza, in Israel-Gaza and even with regard to China.Fears of a regional war in the Middle East have been growing since the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an attack on his residence in Tehran. Hamas has blamed Israel and the US for Haniyeh's death and vowed retaliation. Intelligence Minister Ismail Khatib said Israel ordered the strike after receiving a green light from the US.Nearly 40,000 people in Gaza have been killed since Israels operation in Gaza began in October, according to the territory's health ministry. The US has given Israel more aid than any other nation since World War II.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240805/us-sends-military-forces-to-middle-east-as-observers-fear-catastrophic-war-is-imminent--1119639973.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/idf-sharpening-offensive-capabilities-as-attack-from-iran-looms--report-1119662456.html

IDF Sharpening Offensive Capabilities as Attack from Iran Looms  Report

IDF Sharpening Offensive Capabilities as Attack from Iran Looms  Report

Sputnik International

The Israeli military is seeking to sharpen its offensive capabilities and improve its defensive readiness amid a potential attack by Iran and its allied forces in the region, The Times of Israel reported citing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

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MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Israeli military is seeking to sharpen its offensive capabilities and improve its defensive readiness amid a potential attack by Iran and its allied forces in the region, The Times of Israel reported citing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant."Every day youre improving your readiness on defense and sharpening your offensive capabilities," Gallant said at the Tel Hanof air base as quoted by the newspaper Tuesday.The minister added that he had been working on "coordination" against an Iranian attack in recent days. He also noted his meeting with US Central Command chief Gen. Michael Kurilla and frequent talks with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin."They have a lot of desire to help. This collaboration is a critical component," Gallant said. Iran is reportedly preparing to attack Israel soon after Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed by an Israeli attack in Tehran last week. Haniyeh was in Tehran to attend the inauguration of Iran's new president. The group blamed Israel and the United States for Haniyeh's death and said the attack would not go unanswered.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240802/iran-intelligence-minister-says-israel-killed-haniyeh-after-receiving-ok-from-us-1119609752.html

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Covenant Christian School Head Administrator Glenn Slater, seen in this file photo, said a project to build a $5 million hurricane safety shelter at Covenant Christian School in Conroe is moving forward and could start construction by January. Jason Fochtman A project to build a $5 million hurricane safety shelter at Covenant Christian School in Conroe is moving forward and could start construction by January. Jason Fochtman

A project to build a $5 million hurricane safety shelter at Covenant Christian School in Conroe is moving forward and could start construction by January.

The federally funded project has sat idle for almost five years.

We have had a lot of things to work through with FEMA, said Covenant Christian School Head Administrator Glenn Slater. Then COVID came along and that put us on the back burner with the federal government.

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FEMA will fund 75% of the construction, and the school will provide a 25% match.

COVID delays

With the delay of the pandemic and the slow process for the school to apply and receive state grant funds to help with the schools portion of the cost, the project has moved slowly, but Slater said things are now moving forward.

ROAD REOPENS: State officials reopen FM 1097 in Montgomery County after the road washed out over Atkins Creek

We have a contractor, we have a contract to build, Slater said. We havent broken ground but I believe we are closer than we have ever been.

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Project plans

In January 2020, officials with Covenant Christian School, Montgomery County, and the city of Conroe announced the project to build a 19,000-square-foot concrete dome gymnasium that would provide near-absolute life safety protection for first responders and other emergency personnel who cannot evacuate when a hurricane is tracking to the region.

That same year, Montgomery County commissioners approved a land lease agreement for the structure with the school.

Slater said he has been asked why he hasnt given up on the project.

We love our community and we want to do this for our first responders, Slater said. So if it takes five years, so be it. We want our school to serve the community and be here for our first responders. We are still excited.

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'Bunker-like facility'

Jason Millsaps, executive director of the countys Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, said the school was awarded the grant in 2020 based on Hurricane Harvey.

They chose Covenant as a strategic location based on our proximity to Houston and other areas that see these types of disasters where a bunker-like facility is needed to house first responders, Millsaps said.

According to the agreement, with the countys assistance, the school will construct the facility with grant funds on the county-leased property and maintain it for 30 years at no expense to the county. When not used as a bunker, the school will use the facility as a gymnasium.

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Disaster operations center

During a hurricane or other major disaster, the safe room/gymnasium would be turned over to local emergency management officials from Montgomery County, the city of Conroe and the state to serve as a base of operations and secure shelter for first responders and other emergency personnel.

The facility will hold more than 650 first responders and will protect against winds of more than 200 mph from hurricanes and tornadoes. It will also protect against fire, termites and rot.

The hardened dome project is a vital project that the county is proud to partner with Covenant Christian School on, Millsaps said. This project, when complete, will serve as a safe place to hunker down our regional response partners from across the state during a storm to ensure a rapid response is available as soon as the storm passes.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/israel-informs-washington-of-its-involvement-in-killing-of-hamas-political-chief---reports-1119664145.html

Israel Informs Washington of Its Involvement in Killing of Hamas Political Chief - Reports

Israel Informs Washington of Its Involvement in Killing of Hamas Political Chief - Reports

Sputnik International

Israel immediately informed US officials that it was behind the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, The Washington Post reported, citing sources.

2024-08-07T05:07+0000

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White House officials reacted to the death of Haniyeh with surprise and outrage, seeing it as a serious setback in their attempts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, the report said on Tuesday. Last Wednesday, Hamas confirmed the death of Haniyeh in an Israeli strike on his residence in Tehran, where he had arrived after attending the inauguration of Iran's new president. The movement blamed Israel and the US 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

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/israel-targets-gaza-humanitarian-facility-claiming-hidden-arms-factory---statement-1119667229.html

Israel Targets Gaza Humanitarian Facility Claiming Hidden Arms Factory - Statement

Israel Targets Gaza Humanitarian Facility Claiming Hidden Arms Factory - Statement

Sputnik International

- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday that it had attacked a facility inside a humanitarian area in the town of Deir al Balah in the Gaza Strip, where weapons for Palestinian movements Hamas and Islamic Jihad were supposedly produced.

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The IDF also stated that it had allegedely used precise munitions to mitigate the risk of harming civilians.On October 7, 2023, Israel was subjected to an unprecedented rocket attack from the Gaza Strip. In addition, Hamas fighters infiltrated the border areas, opened fire on the military and civilians and took more than 200 hostages. The authorities say that about 1,200 people were killed during the raid. The IDF launched Operation Iron Swords in the Gaza Strip and announced a complete blockade of the enclave: supplies of water, electricity, fuel, food, and medicine were stopped.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/israels-decision-against-palestinian-state-contradicts-two-state-principle---abbas-1119664429.html

Israel's Decision Against Palestinian State Contradicts Two-State Principle - Abbas

Israel's Decision Against Palestinian State Contradicts Two-State Principle - Abbas

Sputnik International

The resolution of the Israeli parliament opposing the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank violates international law and all previously signed agreements and contradicts the two-state principle, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said in an interview with Sputnik.

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He emphasized that this vote "contradicts the two-state principle adopted by the United Nations and world powers and the very fact that the State of Palestine is a full participant in more than a hundred international organizations and agreements."Palestine is grateful and highly appreciates the call of Russia's State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, on the world's parliaments to denounce the Israeli lawmakers' decision, Abbas added. Palestine will continue its work in the United Nations, he also said. The president also expressed gratitude to the 149 countries that had recognized Palestine and called on those states that had not yet recognized the country to do so. On July 18, the Israeli parliament approved, by a majority vote of 68 out of 120 members, a resolution against the creation of a Palestinian state on the territory of the West Bank. The resolution states, among other things, that the establishment of the Palestinian state would threaten the existence of Israel and its people and lead to an escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and destabilization in the region.On General Elections Timing General elections in the Palestinian territories will not take place until Israel ensures the participation of Palestinians from East Jerusalem, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas told Sputnik.Israel is preventing this, so Palestine decided to postpone the presidential and parliamentary elections, the president said.This will be the realization of the legitimate right of Palestine's fellow citizens living there to run and elect their representatives, Abbas concluded.A general election was slated to take place in Palestine in 2021 but was rescheduled after Israel decided to ban holding it in East Jerusalem, which, according to the UN resolution, is set to become the Palestinian state's capital.In mid-March, Abbas appointed a prominent economist and his former adviser, Mohammad Mustafa, as the new prime minister and instructed him to form a government. Prior to that, Mustafa was the chair and co-president of the Palestine Investment Fund.In late February, former Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh submitted a letter of resignation to Abbas following reports about negotiations between Palestinian political parties and movements on the formation of a new cabinet. Abbas instructed Shtayyeh to remain in office until a new cabinet is formed.On Negotiations PossibilityPalestine is ready for negotiations on the final status with Israel as part of an international peace conference, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said in an interview with Sputnik.The initiative suggests "entering into negotiations on the final status with the Israeli side within the framework of an international peace conference in accordance with a specific time schedule and developing a regional security mechanism," the president said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240805/was-israeli-escalation-in-middle-east-pre-planned-1119652590.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240803/america-will-lose-everything-if-it-continues-to-back-israeli-depravity--analyst-1119618297.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/niger-severs-diplomatic-relations-with-ukraine-over-kiev-backed-terrorism-in-mali-1119662722.html

Niger Severs Diplomatic Relations with Ukraine Over Kiev-Backed Terrorism in Mali

Niger Severs Diplomatic Relations with Ukraine Over Kiev-Backed Terrorism in Mali

Sputnik International

Niger will immediately sever diplomatic relations with Ukraine due to Kiev's aggression against Mali, spokesman for Niger's transitional military government Amadou Abdramane said.

2024-08-07T02:09+0000

2024-08-07T02:09+0000

2024-08-07T02:09+0000

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MOSCOW, August 7 (Sputnik) - Niger will immediately sever diplomatic relations with Ukraine due to Kiev's aggression against Mali, spokesman for Niger's transitional military government Amadou Abdramane said."Considering the seriousness of the situation and Ukraine's recognized and alleged involvement in the aggression against Mali, the government of the Republic of Niger, in full solidarity with the government and people of Mali, is taking ... the following measures," Abdramane said in a televised address.He also called on the international community to "resist Ukraine's decision to defend terrorism in a global context."On Monday the Malian interim government said that it had cut diplomatic ties with the Ukraine regime, which has been significantly penetrated by Nazi and extremist elements since the Euromaidan coup in 2014.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240701/this-day-in-history-nazis-ukrainian-nationalists-launch-massive-pogrom-in-lvov-1119198369.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/russia-understands-motives-prompting-mali-to-sever-diplomatic-ties-with-ukraine---diplomat-1119665818.html

Russia Understands Motives Prompting Mali to Sever Diplomatic Ties With Ukraine - Diplomat

Russia Understands Motives Prompting Mali to Sever Diplomatic Ties With Ukraine - Diplomat

Sputnik International

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Sputnik on Wednesday that Moscow understands the motives that prompted the Malian authorities to sever diplomatic relations with Kiev.

2024-08-07T08:59+0000

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She specified that Kiev cooperates with terrorists. She recalled that "the Transition Government of the Republic of Mali issued on August 4 an official statement on the 'immediate' severance of diplomatic relations with Ukraine." She added that "it was prompted by statements by Ukrainian officials about Kiev's assistance for terrorist forces that attacked a convoy of Malian servicepeople in northern Mali in late July." "Malian authorities warned the international community and countries assisting Kiev that this support will be seen as aiding international terrorism and called on Africans to condemn Ukraine's 'undermining actions' that 'threaten' the stability of the continent,'" she said, adding that Mali drew attention "to the accuracy of the 'diagnosis' made by Moscow, which has repeatedly warned of the 'neo-Nazi and despicable' nature of the policy of [Ukrainian President] Volodymyr Zelenskyy's regime, which has made an 'alliance' with international terrorism." Kiev, while being unable to defeat Russia on the battlefield, decided to open a "second front" in Africa, supporting terrorist groups in African states friendly to Moscow, the spokeswoman added. She added that "as events show, the terrorist nature of the Kiev regime is becoming more and more evident to the entire world."

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/ukraine-starts-talking-of-peace-as-its-battlefield-strategy-crumbles-1119660092.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/niger-severs-diplomatic-relations-with-ukraine-over-kiev-backed-terrorism-in-mali-1119662722.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/russian-air-defense-shoots-down-2-more-ukrainian-missiles-over-kursk-region--governor-1119663066.html

Russian Air Defense Shoots Down 2 More Ukrainian Missiles Over Kursk Region

Russian Air Defense Shoots Down 2 More Ukrainian Missiles Over Kursk Region

Sputnik International

Two more Ukrainian missiles were shot down by Russian air defense forces in the Kursk Region, acting Governor Alexei Smirnov said.

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MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Two more Ukrainian missiles were shot down by Russian air defense forces in the Kursk Region, acting Governor Alexei Smirnov said. Earlier in the day Smirnov said the air defense destroyed two Ukrainian missiles in the region."Two more Ukrainian missiles were shot down by air defense forces in the Kursk Region," Smirnov said on Telegram, adding that the attack took place at 20:18 GMT. On Tuesday, the Russian Defense Ministry said up to 300 Ukrainian fighters, supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armored vehicles, attacked Russian state border protection units near Nikolaevo-Darino and Oleshnya in the Kursk Region. The ministry said that the sabotage group was defeated and retreated to Ukraine.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240225/at-long-last-uk-media-blasts-wests-support-to-euromaidan-coup--ukraine-conflict-1116974378.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/us-carrier-fleets-cannot-end-houthi-threat-to-shipping-in-red-sea---commanding-admiral-1119673065.html

US Carrier Fleets Cannot End Houthi Threat to Shipping in Red Sea - Commanding Admiral

US Carrier Fleets Cannot End Houthi Threat to Shipping in Red Sea - Commanding Admiral

Sputnik International

The US Navy's giant nuclear aircraft carrier task forces operating in the Red Sea and surrounding region are incapable of fully stopping Houthi rebel forces in Yemen from threatening international shipping.

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"The operations we are doing will be a shock absorber," Wikoff, who also heads the Central Command (US CENTCOM) Naval Forces and Combined Maritime Forces in the region, told a meeting at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in a video presentation. The United States needs other members of the international community to pressure the Houthis to stop what they were doing because "right now, quite frankly, they are not under tremendous pressure to come through," Wikoff stated. "Trying to apply classic deterrent policy in this particular scenario is a bit challenging," he said. "We have to be careful about leading with the helmet. We have to be careful about going in with a really specific policy that will allow us to achieve effects that are beyond the military sphere."US and Allied naval forces operating to protect shipping in the Red Sea region were trying to preserve some decision space for the US and Allied leadership, Wikoff explained.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240727/us-navy-drops-details-on-pricey-missiles-and-bombs-its-using-against-yemens-warriors-1119534456.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/us-comments-on-kursk-outrageous-no-criticism-of-ukraine-or-condolences---russian-ambassador-1119673973.html

US Comments on Kursk 'Outrageous,' No Criticism of Ukraine or Condolences - Russian Ambassador

US Comments on Kursk 'Outrageous,' No Criticism of Ukraine or Condolences - Russian Ambassador

Sputnik International

US officials' public statements on Ukraine's attempted offensive in Russia's Kursk region lack both criticism of Kiev and condolences to the victims, Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said in a statement.

2024-08-07T23:14+0000

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2024-08-07T23:14+0000

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The public statements of the American authorities in response to the provocative act of the Kiev thugs on Russian territory are truly outrageous, Antonov said on Wednesday. Once again, the officials did not voice any words of criticism towards their clients or express condolences to the victims of the tragedy. Antonov stressed that Ukrainian actions are an obvious terrorist act. Antonov went on to say that It is obvious that the provocations in the Kursk region are directly related to the deplorable situation of the Ukrainian Armed Forces at the front. "No matter how hard they try to stop our troops in Kiev, they will systematically and progressively move forward, liberating Russian lands," he said. "I would like to stress that Russian borders are sacred. None of the terrorists will escape retribution. Washington must stop supplying weapons to Kiev and "punish" the neo-Nazis from the Armed Forces of Ukraine."The National Guard, the Border Guard and the Defense Ministry stepped up their military presence in the Kursk and Belgorod regions to repel potential Ukrainian attacks. Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Kiev of launching a large-scale provocation. He said Ukrainian troops were shelling the Russian regions indiscriminately, firing at civilian infrastructure and ambulances. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that Ukraine shelling Russia's Kursk Region is yet another terrorist attack aimed against civilians.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/whats-known-about-ukraines-botched-attack-on-russias-kursk-region-1119668114.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/whats-toretsks-strategic-importance-and-why-is-the-ukrainian-military-losing-ground-there-1119669733.html

What's Toretsk's Strategic Importance and Why is the Ukrainian Military Losing Ground There?

What's Toretsk's Strategic Importance and Why is the Ukrainian Military Losing Ground There?

Sputnik International

The Russian Armed Forces are approaching one of Ukraine's most important logistics hubs in Donbass  Toretsk  from several directions. Why is Toretsk so crucial and what's behind the Ukrainian military failures there?

2024-08-07T15:57+0000

2024-08-07T15:57+0000

2024-08-07T15:56+0000

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Russian troops have begun to take Toretsk "in pincers", Igor Kimakovsky, adviser to the head of the Donetsk People's Republic Denis Pushilin, told a Russian broadcaster on August 6.Earlier on July 30, Russia's Tsentr Battlegroup liberated the nearby settlement of Leninskoye, thus improving its tactical positions in the Toretsk direction.The expert noted that the actions in the Toretsk direction have intensified since spring along with Russian troop advances towards Pokrovsk and Slavyansk. The end goal is to speed up the liberation of the DPR.The geographical location of Toretsk creates all the conditions to turn it into a fortress, according to the pundit: the city was built on a hill surrounded by water obstacles from three sides.According to Russian and Western military observers, control over Toretsk will allow Russian forces to advance to the northwest  to Konstantinovka, the southern flank of Ukraine's major fortified area in Donbass, which runs along the line Slavyansk-Kramatorsk-Druzhkovka-Konstantinovka.Furthermore, the liberation of Toretsk will also curb Ukraine's ability to shell Donetsk, Gorlovka and other residential areas of the DPR, according to Klupov.The US mainstream press raised the alarm over Russia's rapid advance in late July. The Washington Post reported that Russian forces "have mounted an arc of attack" in Donbass in a bid to take Pokrovsk, Chasov Yar, and Toretsk. According to the newspaper, the Russian military makes steady gains by adopting new tactics, while Ukrainian commanders and soldiers complain about "exhaustion and dwindling resources," including a severe lack of troops.On August 6, the New York Times drew attention to the fact that the Ukrainian military was losing defensive positions outside Toretsk and inside New York, a smaller town a few kilometers to the south, following an ill-timed rotation of Ukrainian forces. The 41st Ukrainian Brigade that replaced the 24th in June was unprepared to defend Toretsk since it did not know the terrain, the newspaper said, citing Ukrainian soldiers.The lack of competence of the Ukrainian military leadership provides additional advantages for the Russian offensive, according to the reserve colonel.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/ukraine-lost-up-to-260-troops-in-kursk-region-operation-continues---russian-defense-ministry-1119666049.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/ukraine-starts-talking-of-peace-as-its-battlefield-strategy-crumbles-1119660092.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240806/ukraine-lost-over-115000-troops-in-less-than-2-months---shoigu-1119656683.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240807/zelenskys-ukraine-hits-debt-peak-as-it-fails-to-cover-expenses-1119667484.html

Zelensky's Ukraine Hits Debt Peak As It Fails to Cover Expenses

Zelensky's Ukraine Hits Debt Peak As It Fails to Cover Expenses

Sputnik International

Since Ukraine became an independent country in 1991 its public debt has been steadily growing. According to the Ukraines finance ministry, the countrys external debt is $103.79 billion dollars, while its internal obligations amount to $40.52 billion. The total public debt of Ukraine reached $152.16 billion.

2024-08-07T15:30+0000

2024-08-07T15:30+0000

2024-08-08T10:18+0000

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volodymyr zelensky

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Ukraine recently received a $3.9 billion grant from the US via the World Bank for social expenses that the country fails to cover on its own, showing up a dire financial situation in the country, especially in its levels of debt.According to IMF data and the budget report of Ukraines Finance Ministry, Ukraine's state debt amounted to $152.2 billion in July, a record 88.4% of GDP. The main increase is in Ukraine's external debt, which increased by $59.5 billion to reach $103.7 billion. Taking into account the amount of external debt and Ukraines current 38 million population, every Ukrainian citizen now owes around $2,728 to a foreign country. Likewise, domestic debt increased by $14.4 billion to $40.5 billion. Under Zelensky, the countrys state debt has grown by $74 billion, which is just a little less than what the previous five Ukrainian presidents incurred between them.Last week, the international rating agency S&P lowered Ukraine's long- and short-term foreign currency credit ratings to SD/SD (Selective Default) - after the country failed to make a bond payment. It came after a similar downgrade in Ukraine's rating by US credit rating agency Fitch.Ukraine's debts have been rising since the 1990s when the country was ruled by Leonid Kravchuk and Leonid Kuchma. According to the Finance Ministrys data, Ukraines public debt increased by $15.7 billion in 2005 alone.After the first Maidan coup, the debt jumped under President Viktor Yushchenko, leading to the fall of his popularity and his defeat in the presidential election in 2010. Next, President Viktor Yanukovych, who defeated both Yushchenko and his Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko in 2010 at an internationally recognized election, reduced the debt to 39.9% of GDP. The debt stabilized under the first post-Maidan ruler Petro Poroshenko. During the term of Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine's state debt has grown by $73.8 billion, almost doubling the burden that Zelensky inherited from Poroshenko in 2019.In late July, Zelensky signed a law that allowed the government to suspend payments on foreign debt until October 1 in order to reach an agreement with creditors on restructuring, according to the website of the Verkhovna Rada. After the outbreak of hostilities, private creditors allowed Ukraine to suspend payments on the national debt. Earlier, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Shmygal announced that bondholders had agreed on debt restructuring to the amount of about $20 billion. The agreement included writing off 37% of the debt volume.Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin underscored that Ukraine's economy exists only on handouts from other countries. He explained that executives go with their hand outstretched, "begging for an extra million dollars."

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A 300-acre wildfire has erupted on the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge, according to the Brazoria County Fire Marshal's Office. Houston Chronicle

A Pakistani man with ties to the government of Iran was arrested in Houston and is accused of trying to hire hitmen in the region as part of a plot of carry out political assassinations, according to unsealed court documents.

Officials with the U.S. Justice Department allege Asif Merchant was trying to carry out murder-for-hire plots on American public figures. Merchant was charged in a New York-based federal court with murder, officials said.

MORE FROM HOUSTON CHRONICLE: Another assistant chief reassigned at Houston Police Department amid fallout

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Merchant in April flew from Pakistan to Houston to recruit people to carry out his assassination plot, according to court documents. Soon after arriving, he contacted an undercover federal agent and went to New York to meet him.

Court documents make little mention of Merchants time in Houston beyond his initial visit to recruit people, but he was arrested July 12 in Houston, according to a spokesman for the FBI.

Merchant later in April visited New York to hire hitmen, even paying a $5,000 advance to two would-be assassins who were undercover officers, according to one report.

The Associated Press reported the case was unsealed weeks after U.S. officials disclosed a threat on Donald Trumps life from Iran prompted additional security before the Pennsylvania rally where he was injured. Specific assassination targets were not revealed in the court documents.
As the 2024 National Caretaker Appreciation Day season approaches, Julie Lambert, a dedicated horse caretaker from Red Deer, Alta., shares her insights on the life of a horse caretaker.

Julie Lambert, born and raised in Saint-Malo, Man., never anticipated a career in horse care until she met her high school sweetheartwho happens to be a horse trainerJacques Lambert. As Julie puts it, she "married into the business."

In 2021, Julie and Jacques, along with their two children, Jasmine and Jaden, relocated to a farm in Alberta with the goal of expanding Jacques' racing stable. Today, Jacques oversees a stable of 14 racehorses, as well as several yearlings and broodmares.





The Lambert family: Julie, Jacques, Jaden and Jasmine

As the stable's responsibilities have grown over the years, Julie has eagerly embraced new challenges. She describes their farm as a "team where everybody works until the work is done," explaining that both children, Jasmine and Jaden, contribute equally to the stable's workload as grooms.

Julie's role as a horse caretaker comes naturally to her, with daily duties including preparing feeds, harnessing, jogging and training the Standardbreds. Yet, horse care is not her only responsibility; she also works full-time as an Agriculture Account Manager for a credit union. She uses her business management skills to handle the stable's financial side, while Jacques focuses on operations.





Julie Lambert jogging a Standardbred

Highlighting the vital role of horse caretakers, Julie emphasizes that they are just as integral to a stable's success as the trainer and owner. For her, the most fulfilling part of being a caretaker is developing a connection with a horse and experiencing a sense of accomplishment and pride when that horse succeeds. "You feel like you were a part of it," she says.

Julie is grateful for her life as a caretaker, stating, "They're a huge part of my life, and I can't imagine my life without it." She explains that the role has made her stronger, building her confidence, resilience and strength, both mentally and physically. She values the ability to adapt to whatever challenges arise.

The future looks bright for the Lambert stable, as they are on track for their highest earnings yet in the 2024 training campaign.

Join Standardbred Canada in showing appreciation for Julie Lambert and all of the unsung heroes of our industry as we celebrate National Caretaker Appreciation Day across our nation.

2024 National Caretaker Appreciation Day Event Dates:

Clinton Raceway  Sunday, Sept. 1

Dresden Raceway  Sunday, July 7 (Completed)

Fraser Downs Racetrack  Thursday, Sept. 12

Grand River Raceway  Friday, Sept. 6

Hanover Raceway  Saturday, Sept. 14

Hippodrome 3R  Sunday, Sept. 15

Kawartha Downs  Friday, Aug. 30

Red Shores Racetrack & Casino at the Charlottetown Driving Park  Thursday, Sept. 12

Red Shores at Summerside Raceway  Tuesday, Sept. 10

Rideau Carleton Raceway  Thursday, Sept. 12

The Track On 2  Saturday, Sept. 7

Truro Raceway  Friday, Sept. 6

Woodbine Mohawk Park  Friday, Sept. 6

Leamington Raceway  Sunday, Sept. 8

National Caretaker Appreciation Day was launched in 2017 to recognize and reward caretakers in the Standardbred industry across Canada.

(Standardbred Canada)
After questioning the actions of his peers and the town manager, a Marion councilman quit in the middle of Monday evenings town council meeting.

Councilman Jim Barker, who has served on the Marion Town Council since 2010, said he had been working to improve Marion without gaining personal rewards. However, with what he said he has witnessed, Barker said he has grown frustrated. He indicated that frustration reached a tipping point during a closed session at the last council meeting when Barker said he was berated, and some council members even yelled at him. The behavior, he alleged, was an effort to intimidate him.

Hatred, falsehoods, and half-truths were aimed at me and some citizens, said Barker.

Barker suggested that his peers were responding to his decision to start checking the accuracy of information reported to the council by Town Manager Bill Rush. Trust but verify became my motto, Barker said.

Handing out what he called a retirement letter, Barker said he was frustrated with the town manager and the complicit and malfeasant council.

Barker said he was retiring immediately and that he would not be running for mayor even though he had previously filed to do so. However, he declared, I will not disappear.

As he was walking away from the council dais, a citizen yelled out, You were bullied.

Barker replied, Yep.

As he left, Barker received scattered applause from a group of citizens who regularly question the town councils actions.

The letter Barker addressed to Vice Mayor Jim Gates read, I am hereby retiring from the Marion Council, effective immediately. My iPad, building pass, and  key are on the dais.

The document continued, I am also retiring from the Marion Planning Commission, Marion Tree Commission, and Song of the Mountains.

A Smyth County native, Barker retired from the USDA-Forest Service after 33 years of service in 2009. He then launched Jim Barker Appraisal LLC.

Barker was not shy about taking stands on wide-ranging issues. The council representative to the Planning Commission, he was heavily involved in development issues. He long advocated for the towns police, fire and EMS responders and worked with Smyth County to establish an EMS funding agreement.

In recent years, Barker had taken a more aggressive stance in challenging Rush and his peers on the council.

Barker made his announcement during the time set aside during council meetings for individual member reports.

Following Barkers walkout, those reports continued.

During his time, Councilman Avery Cornett noted that he came across Maya Morrison in the Virginia Town & City magazine published by the Virginia Municipal League (VML). Morrison, a Marion Middle School student, was recognized in May as the VMLs regional winner of the If I Were Mayor Essay Contest.

Weve got to show them a better world, Cornett said, saying that a lot of youth are watching whats taking place. Lets try to make them proud, he said.

The council entered an unscheduled closed session to discuss privacy protections, consultation with legal counsel, and personnel. After returning to open session, the council took no action before adjourning.

Following the meeting, Gates declined to comment on Barkers allegations other than to say that the issues had been ongoing over several years. He also said the councils actions were supported by verifiable facts.

Rush also chose not to respond.

On Tuesday, a Marion statement on Barker's action said, "The Council and staff of the Town of Marion acknowledges Mr. Barker's service, and wishes him well."

When running for his council seat in 2018, Barker said one of the three important roles of a councilmember is Being a part of a cohesive working team that includes the other council members, the mayor, the town manager, the town staff and the public. It takes team work to produce desirable change.

In 2019, Barker challenged then Delegate Jeff Campbell for the 6th District House of Delegates seat.

Barkers departure impacts the already short council.

Mayor David Helms died in March, and, last month, Councilman Bill Weaver stepped down to move to be closer to family.

Gates has stepped up to serve as the councils presiding officer. Other council members include Larry Carter, Cornett, Susie Jennings, and Tricia Spencer.
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The Google sign is shown over an entrance to the company's building in New York on Sept. 6, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Peter Morgan, File

A federal judge has branded Google as a ruthless monopolist bent on suffocating its competitors. But how do you go about creating alternatives to a search engine that's synonymous with internet exploration?

It's a process that may take years to unfold as Google appeals the landmark decision issued Monday by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta.

And with that kind of time frame looming, the forces of technological upheaval may make the exercise moot.

The rise of artificial intelligence may reshape the landscape more quickly and profoundly than any judge ever could. The way consumers navigate the internet is more likely to be affected by advances in AI productssuch as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's own Geminibefore a nearly 4-year-old case brought by the U.S. Justice Department is finally resolved.

Even so, Mehta's 277-page ruling Monday creates challenges for Google that company founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin probably didn't envision when they set out to revolutionize internet search while attending Stanford University as graduate students. They eventually dropped out to start a Silicon Valley company in 1998 that adopted "Don't Be Evil" as a motto that also was meant to serve as its corporate conscience.

Page and Brin, who remain the controlling shareholders of Google's corporate parent Alphabet Inc., also cast their cuddly startup as a crusader for technology that would be far better than the products coming out of Microsoft, the industry's reigning kingpin at the time. Microsoft's dominance of personal computer software and anticompetitive tactics during the 1990s spurred another Justice Department case that ended up hobbling Microsoft and helped make it easier for Google to build its lead in search and then expand into maps, cloud computing, email (Gmail), web browsers (Chrome) and video (YouTube).

Now, the script has been flipped, with Google facing potential legal constraints, while a resurgent Microsoft has been making early headway in AI with a major helping hand from its investment in OpenAI. In one of the most dramatic scenarios that most experts think is unlikely to happen, Google might be forced to break up its business similar to how AT&Tonce known as "Ma Bell"ended up spinning off its telephone subsidiaries into separate "Baby Bells" more than 40 years ago.

It will be left to Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who took over the company's leadership from Page in 2015, to minimize the distractions caused by the legal skirmishing still to come and remain focused on an industrywide pivot to AI technology that's expected to be as revolutionary as the mobile computing shift by Apple's introduction of the iPhone in 2007.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai leaves the federal courthouse in Washington during closing arguments in the antitrust case against Google on Oct. 30, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File

The debate about how Google should be overhauled will begin Sept. 6 with a hearing scheduled in Washington, D.C., before Mehta, who also presided over the 10-week trial last year that led to his antitrust decision.

Google also will be pursing an appeal, based on its long-held contention that it has done nothing wrong but build and maintain a search engine that has been far superior to anything else for more than 20 years. The Mountain View, California, company also maintains that competition is just a few clicks away, with consumers still free to go to other options, such as Microsoft's Bing, DuckDuckGo and, more recently, AI-powered alternatives such as Perplexity and ChatGPT.

Although Mehta praised the quality of Google's search engine in his ruling and acknowledged the company initially became the people's preferred choice in its early days, he concluded it resorted to unfair tactics to maintain its leadership during the past decade. Google did it, Mehta said, mainly by negotiating lucrative deals to cement a position as the default search engine on the iPhone and wide range of other devices, including PCs.

Those deals, which totaled $26 billion in 2021 alone, meant Google automatically processed search requests unless consumers took the time to manually go into their settings and choose another optionsomething that few do. The default option then helped Google collect valuable insights that enabled the company to improve its search engine in ways that rivals couldn't because they lacked the same data.

Default requests processed accounted for 60% of Google's search traffic in 2017, Mehta pointed out in his ruling, and that volume in turn created more opportunities to sell the ads that generate the majority of its parent company's $307 billion in annual revenue.

Mehta's focus on the default search deals in his ruling make it likely he may decide to ban them after the next trial phase is completed, according to antitrust experts. That could have implications for other companies besides Google, especially Apple, which pockets about $20 billion annually from an arrangement that is currently scheduled to continue through 2026, with options to extend the alliance into 2028.

Apple didn't respond to a request for comment about Mehta's decision, but its executives have depicted the decision to make Google the default search engine on the iPhone and other products as a convenience to its customersmost of whom prefer to use Google.

But an order preventing Apple from doing default search engine deals with Google could do more than just siphon away revenue. It might also require Apple to spend heavily to develop its own search technologyan endeavor that Google estimated would cost more than $30 billion as part of 2020 analysis that Mehta cited in his ruling. Then, it would cost Apple an additional $7 billion annually to sustain its own search engine, according to Google's analysis.

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

We are living in an era of astonishing data proliferation and the sharing of user-created content across all kinds of media, from social networks to news sites, e-commerce reviews to endless forums for every kind of interest and niche.

Being able to accurately interpret emotions conveyed through such messages is increasingly important for social science and politics, in marketing, business, and economics, and elsewhere.

Recent advancements in the field of so-called "sentiment analysis" have led to the development of more sophisticated models capable of extracting and interpreting emotional subtleties in textual data. One such model is the BERT-ABiLSTMBidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers, Attention Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory.

Research published in the International Journal of Information and Communication Technology reports on how this large-scale pre-trained algorithm can be used for sentiment analysis. However, as author Zhubin Luo, of the Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technology in China, points out, the system's use of ABiLSTM, means there are some limitations as it focuses on global features and can overlook nuance.

BERT, Luo explains, can learn language representations from extensive bodies of text. The ABiLSTM, a recurrent neural network, processes text sequences. Luo has now added TextCNN (Text Convolutional Neural Network) to the system to make BERT-CNN-ABiLSTM, a more sophisticated version of the model.

Overall, the underlying bidirectional approach allows the model to understand context from both past-to-future and future-to-past segments of text. This is important for capturing long-term dependencies in text. The attention mechanism within ABiLSTM further refines this by enabling the model to focus on the most pertinent parts of the text when making predictions, thus improving the accuracy of sentiment analysis.

The TextCNN component then uses convolutional kernels of various sizes to detect different granularities of features within the text. This allows the model to capture much more subtle local patterns within the text that would have been missed by simpler models, thus providing a yet more detailed analysis of textual content.

The improvements reported by Luo are particularly relevant for scenarios that require detailed text classification and recognition. This might include sentiment analysis on social media, evaluating customer feedback in e-commerce platforms, or empowering "intelligent" online question-and-answer systems.

More information: Zhubin Luo, A study into text sentiment analysis model based on deep learning, International Journal of Information and Communication Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1504/IJICT.2024.139869
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There's an aggressive push for more electric vehicle chargers and technicians to work on them, but a problem remains: There's no nationwide standard for training those technicians.

The lack of such guidelines could hinder companies from quickly and adequately training the number of techs needed to support the build-out of EV chargers nationwide, experts say. Fielding EV techs is necessary to overcoming one of the largest barriers to widespread EV adoption: charge anxiety or the uncertainty of being able to use a charging station since one in five EV chargers don't work, according to a study led by a Harvard Business School fellow.

"There's definitely a shortage of EV techs," said Kianna Scott, senior vice president of learning and development at ChargerHelp!, which services EV charging stations and runs its own tech training programs nationwide.

Companies servicing EV chargers have traditionally sought certified electricians as the ideal EV tech. That's why the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers union developed the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training program.

But with a shortage of electricians and the urgent need for EV techs, many companies that repair EV chargers have developed their own curriculum to attract people who are new to the electrical field. Since different companies train techs differently, there's scant agreement on which skills are required to be an EV tech. A lack of certification further slows the process, forcing companies to train and verify the skills of each new hire.

To meet the need for certification, the Society of Automotive Engineers, known for setting industry standards, connected with ChargerHelp! to create a certification for EV techs. Launched in January, SAE's EV supply equipment technician certification exam was developed with major automakers and charging companies to establish a body of knowledge an EV tech is expected to know.

"We aspire for this to be the industry-recognized certification," said Frank Menchaca, president of SAE International's Sustainable Mobility Solutions group, which developed the certification.

Already, SAE has received a lot of interest from companies who'd like to see their techs certified. Some community colleges are looking to adjust the EV tech curriculum to prepare students for the exam, Menchaca said.

Last month, a class of 12 EV techs graduated from Goodwill Detroit's EV tech training program and are set to take the exam. ChargerHelp! worked with Goodwill to ensure the training would align with SAE's certification.

"The majority of the curriculum is hands-on experience and technical application with the goal of preparing graduates for the SAE exam," said Jessica Hutcheson, vice president of learning and development at ChargerHelp!.

But the SAE certification is still in its infancy. The first certificates were issued in June. Many companies that service EV chargers are still unaware or indifferent, continuing their own EV tech training programs.

"I don't think there's an industry standard (for training) yet," said Jagdeep Singh, chief customer experience officer for ChargePoint. "It does add some level of confusion to the industry."

ChargePoint manufactures and maintains EV chargers and has one of the largest charging networks in the nation. Even if an EV tech has prior certification, they're still required to undergo product-specific training on the company's stations.

"For the most part," Singh said, "any partner that's affiliated with our product will need to go through our training and certification program to ensure that we're delivering the best experiences for the drivers and owners of these stations."

The search for a standard

Techs who service ChargePoint chargers work for the network's operation and maintenance partner companies, including Oscar W. Larson Co. or OWL.

Justin Spence, manager at OWL, agrees there's no industry standard for EV tech training, but he'd certainly like to see one. When interviewed in early July, Spence said he hadn't yet seen the SAE's exam but is interested.

"That would be a wonderful way to hire people who already have the basic skill set needed to service the equipment," Spence said.

Abass El-Hage, CEO of Detroit-based Red E Charging LLC, does not require new hires to have the SAE certification or any specific type of training. While those trainings are accepted, as are college degrees, Red E also provides other training needed for its chargers.

"If you want to work on a Mercedes, you need to know little quirks on a Mercedes ... and so somebody that we onboard, we're going to make sure that they get all those different trainings in what we're working with," El-Hage said.

El-Hage says having a standard for training would help in some markets where Red E is installing chargers.

"It would help in other more remote areas ... finding somebody qualified in New Mexico, that's hard," he said.

El-Hage has hired from the EV tech training program at Ford Motor Co.'s Michigan Central Station, he said, "The program downtown, I'm all about it, and I think it's helpful, and I think it does fill a need. I don't feel like we have a crazy shortage, though."

An emerging field

To meet the demand for EV techs, OWL initially cross-trained its electricians to work on EV chargers. But there simply weren't enough trained employees to meet demand. This led OWL to develop its own training program for EV techs who are new to the industry.

OWL developed certifications ranging from Level III techs (certified electricians who tackle the most difficult problems) to Level I techs (newly trained techs carrying out standard maintenance/repair). Level I techs can solve the most common problems at charging stations.

Some other companies have a different definition of what they call an "EV tech."

InCharge, a charger manufacturer that hires its own EV techs to service its stations, defines EV techs as electricians or those on their way to becoming electricians. Because InCharge has a unique software that allows workers to repair 75% of problems remotely, it looks for people with experience when hiring new techs.

"The industry does not mandate EV techs be trained," InCharge CEO Cameron Funk said. "There is no nationwide training standard."

The position of EV tech is so new, it could allow those traditionally excluded from the electrical space to get into the industry. Half of Goodwill of Greater Detroit's first class of EV techs were women, for example.

Lavez Boudreaux, 30, from Detroit, is one of the graduates of Goodwill's EV program. Boudreaux has always loved cars and previously worked on an auto assembly line. Having never graduated from college and with no previous electrical experience before the Goodwill program, he hopes that being an EV tech could give him a step up. The starting wage for EV techs can be $30 an hour.

"I feel like I'm getting a headstart into the future," Boudreaux said, adding he'll need more training as the field evolves. "I'll need to get more certifications. But the (Goodwill program and SAE exam), it's a good start."

2024 Detroit News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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The Microsoft logo is displayed outside its French headquarters in Issy-les-Moulineaux, outside Paris, May 13, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Thibault Camus, File

Microsoft is joining cybersecurity software firm CrowdStrike in fighting back against Delta Air Lines, which blames the companies for causing several thousand canceled flights following a technology outage last month.

A lawyer for Microsoft said Tuesday that Delta's key IT system is probably serviced by other technology companies, not Microsoft Windows.

"Your letter and Delta's public comments are incomplete, false, misleading, and damaging to Microsoft and its reputation," Microsoft lawyer Mark Cheffo said in a letter to Delta attorney David Boies.

Cheffo said Microsoft was trying to determine "why other airlines were able to fully restore business operations so much faster than Delta."

The comments represent an escalating fight between the tech companies and the Atlanta-based airline.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian said last week that the global technology outage that started with a faulty upgrade from CrowdStrike to machines running on Microsoft Windows cost the airline $500 million. Bastian raised the threat of legal action.

On Tuesday, Delta said it has a long record of investing in reliable service including "billions of dollars in IT capital expenditures" since 2016 and billions more in annual IT costs. It declined further comment.

CrowdStrike has also disputed Delta's claims. Both it and Microsoft said Delta had turned down their offers to help the airline recover from the outage last month. Microsoft's lawyer said CEO Satya Nadella emailed Bastian during the outage, but the Delta CEO never replied.

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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.
A student at Marshall Middle School walks into the school courtyard with a clear backpack on Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer Clear backpacks are shown at Walmart, 1118 Silber Rd., Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Clear backpacks have long been a controversial way for administrators to improve school security, and their popularity has remained somewhat stagnant nationwide over the past 20 years. Only about 4% of campuses in the U.S. have a clear backpack or no backpack policy, according to 2022 data from the National Center for Education statistics. In 2000, that number was just over 5%.

But in the Houston-area, popularity for the policy has increased in recent years. Beginning in 2018, when Cypress-Fairbanks ISD announced their clear backpack policy for all middle and high school students, three other districts have since followed suit with sweeping clear backpack policies, such as Cleveland ISD, Crosby ISD and Aldine ISD.

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Cleveland ISD began requiring clear and mesh backpacks after a violent threat was made to Cleveland Middle School by an attending student in April 2023. The plan was so detailed it included the location of security cameras in the school and the average response time to local police offers, according to a news report of the event.

One day later, a clear backpack policy went into effect.

Parents, I need you to understand the seriousness of the threat that was made at Cleveland middle school yesterday, superintendent Stephen McCanless said in a video to families when the requirement first went into effect.

Lamar High School, a campus within Houston ISD that allows campuses to choose their backpack policies, also began requiring clear backpacks recently after an uptick in disciplinary incidents.

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Consistently we have students using their backpacks to bring contraband onto campus. Whether it is something seemingly harmless such as snacks to sell, or items strictly prohibited on school campuses, this becomes a multiplier for other issues such as thefts and fights, the online notice to families reads.

Spring and Pasadena ISDs also have campus-by-campus clear backpack policies. Aldine ISD used to have a similar structure, but recently broadened their rules across all middle and high school students. Aldine ISD, like Cleveland ISD, also allows for mesh backpacks, whereas Cy-Fair ISD does not. Alief ISD does not require clear backpacks, but is strongly encouraging students to use clear or mesh backpacks to decrease safety issues, according to their website.

At Yes Prep, a public charter school based in Houston, leaders mandate that all students wear clear backpacks to school, regardless of age.

Why enact a clear backpack policy?

Clear backpacks have long been sought as a way to gun violence and drug use in schools, operating on the premise that if a student has a clear backpack, they would not be able to smuggle a gun or other weapon onto campus, and that they would not want to bring drugs or vapes to school either.

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But some say their flaws outweigh the benefits.

The main concern with clear backpacks is privacy. Students are required to have their personal materials on display, from books to computers to even stationary and personal items. For students who get their periods, some have to carry pads and tampons out in the open.

Many districts allow for clear backpacks that can have a 6 by 9 pouch in them for those products and other personal items, but those pouches could in turn easily fit a vape or drug paraphernalia, which is one of the reasons for enacting the policy in the first place.

The other concern is durability. Clear backpacks are known to be more flimsy than canvas backpacks. Many families report having to buy more than one each year because they can break with heavy textbooks in them. And mesh backpacks, while likely more durable than plastic, are not waterproof, and if a student gets caught in the rain, their belongings could be damaged.

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Do clear backpacks make campuses safer?

The verdict is out on whether clear backpacks actually make schools safer. Houston-area administrators seem more inclined to enact these policies due to an uptick in disciplinary actions and violence in recent years, but national school security expert Kenneth Trump feels otherwise.

Clear backpacks are security theater, Trump said. They may be used to create an emotional security blanket for parents and staff who believe that it will make schools safer.

He added that the size of weapons that have been used in some of the most deadly school shootings, AR-15s and AK-47s, would not even fit in a backpack.

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If someone is intent and comes to the school, they're going to blow right through the glass, past any security measures that you have, such as weapon screening or personnel, Trump said.

As a school security researcher, Trump holds focus groups with students, and when clear backpacks come up, they usually are not for it. Beside the privacy concern, Trump said students have told him that they could roll up a weapon in a t-shirt or sweatshirt inside the backpack, or they could hide a bladed weapon on their person and evade the backpack altogether, if they really wanted to bring a weapon to school.

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There's a difference between making you feel safer and actually being safer, Trump said.

He also cited a difficulty with enforcing the policy, and that often 6 months after a policy is introduced, if there is not time and energy being spent on enforcement, students will begin to ignore the mandate. He also said it can be a waste of administrators little time to enforce a clear backpacks policy rather than building the relationships it takes to stop violence from occurring.

The number one way we find out about weapons, plots and kids causing harm to themselves and others is when a kid comes forward and tells an adult, Trump said. A lot of the best school security measures are less visible or even invisible.

This rings true for Cleveland ISD. The middle school campus found out about the violent threat that spurred the clear backpack policy because another student reported it to a teacher.
Sinclair Elementary School seen on Friday, July 19, 2024, in Houston. Sinclair sustained extensive damage due to the derecho and Hurricane Beryl. Karen Warren/Staff photographer A downed school speed limit sign rests on the fence outside of Sinclair Elementary School seen on Friday, July 19, 2024, in Houston. Sinclair sustained extensive damage due to the derecho and Hurricane Beryl. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Sinclair Elementary School seen on Friday, July 19, 2024, in Houston. Sinclair sustained extensive damage due to the derecho and Hurricane Beryl. Karen Warren/Staff photographer A tarp is draped on a damaged temporary building at Sinclair Elementary School seen on Friday, July 19, 2024, in Houston. Sinclair sustained extensive damage due to the derecho and Hurricane Beryl. Karen Warren/Staff photographer A tree rests on the roof of a temporary building at Sinclair Elementary School seen on Friday, July 19, 2024, in Houston. Sinclair sustained extensive damage due to the derecho and Hurricane Beryl. Karen Warren/Staff photographer

All HISD campuses should be ready to reopen for the first day of school on Aug. 12, despite damage inflicted by a deadly storm in May and Hurricane Beryl in July.

District administrators wrote in a statement that they are aware of mold on at least two campuses and expect all work regarding the mold to be completed by Monday when school starts. HISD did not identify which campuses mold is at.

"The District is aware of mold detected in areas on at least two campuses," a spokesperson wrote. "Steps have been taken to remedy the issue including deep campus cleaning, and a professional mold remediation team working on at least one campus. Air quality assessments have been taken and school and division leadership are communicating any changes with their communities so that all families are prepared for the first day of school."

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Sinclair Elementary School suffered the most damage from the May 16 derecho.

And Sinclair, Kelso Elementary, and Cage Elementary/Project Chrysalis Middle School on a shared campus experienced the most extensive damage from Beryl, which left 60 schools with some structural and roof damage, HISD said. In late July after Beryl, the district said it was addressing HVAC issues caused by prolonged power outages at 16 schools.

An Aug. 2 update on Sinclair repairs, posted by its Parent Teacher Organization, indicated the district restored power and air conditioning to second-grade classrooms and completed cabling for internet connection at the beginning of August. As of that latest update, the district planned for fire alarm installation among other tasks for the week of Aug. 5.

The district ramped up repairs at Sinclair in late July after summer school. Kim Ludlow, president of the school's PTO, said all students will start on campus Monday.

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However, some classes are displaced, she said, with some magnet teachers visiting classrooms to teach the school's STEM and communications programming. The district told Sinclair parents repairs will be completed by December. HISD could have worked around the clock, Ludlow said, and there were days when nobody showed up to do repairs.
H-E-B awarded Galena Park ISD $100,000 in its 22nd annual Excellence in Education Awards. H-E-B

The Texas-based Grocery chain H-E-B launched its annual search for the best educators in the state.

The company is now accepting nominations for the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards, a Monday news release announced. The program recognizes teachers, counselors, principles, preschools, school boards and districts for excellence in education and provides cash prizes for the winners.

Educators are the backbone of our society, and they deserve recognition for going above and beyond to uplift our communities and shape the next generation of leaders, said Jill Reynolds, H-E-B Public Affairs Manager, in a statement. By nominating an educator, you are starting a journey that can lead to impactful benefits for not only the school but also your community.

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Nominations can be submitted through H-E-Bs online portal, which will remain open until Oct. 7. The only requirement is that the nominees work at or represent a public school certified by the state of Texas. Nominees will receive an invitation to apply before Dec. 2. Those who were not nominated are also free to apply before the deadline.

Finalists and winners will be decided by a panel of judges made up of former educators, university professors and other experts. Ten nominees will be selected for prizes and will be recognized at an awards ceremony in May 2025.

The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards have recognized top educators in the state since 2002. In that time, the company has awarded more than $14 million to individuals and districts with a proven commitment to education.

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This year, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards distributed $400,000 in grants and cash prizes. Galena Park Independent School District and Gregory-Portland ISD each received $100,000. Another $50,000 was split between a preschool and a school board, leaving $230,000 to be divided between six teachers, two counselors and two principals.
State Sen. Charles Schwertner (center), Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and state Sen. Phil King held a press conference to discuss Texas energy bills at the state capitol on Wednesday March 9, 2023. Nell Carroll/special contributor Public Utility Commission of Texas Commissioner Jimmy Glotfelty reviews materials as commissioners speak to a team from CenterPoint Energy about Hurricane Beryl on Thursday, July 25, 2024, in the Commissioners Hearing Room at the William B. Travis State Office Building in Austin. Jon Shapley/Associated Press CenterPoint's temporary generators, explained Ken Ellis/Staff

In the weeks since Hurricane Beryl pummeled the Houston region and left millions without power for days, Texas lawmakers have not been shy about grilling the regions electric utility, CenterPoint Energy. Theyve been especially critical of CenterPoints 2021 decision to lease a fleet of massive generators for $800 million that have mostly sat idle since.

I feel like Ive been taken advantage of, said Republican state Sen. Phil King, who authored legislation allowing utilities to lease generators, during a hearing at the Texas Capitol last week.

It just seems kind of arrogant to go out and make this huge investment, said Democratic state Sen. Carol Alvarado.

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If I was an inspector general, Id be looking at this contract for fraud, said Republican state Sen. Paul Bettencourt.

It doesnt smell good at all.  Theres more to this story that I hope comes out sooner rather than later, said Republican state Sen. Charles Schwertner, adding, Whose pockets are getting lined here?

But these lawmakers enabled CenterPoint to acquire generators and pass the costs off to consumers. They did so even as problems with the generators  including the fact that most of them werent actually mobile  had been well documented over the previous 18 months by experts, consumer advocates, trade groups, city of Houston officials and even a pair of state administrative law judges.

The legislators are acting as if this is all new information for them, said Sylvester Turner, who as the former mayor of Houston led the citys efforts to oppose the generator deal. Even with all the blowback on CenterPoint, CenterPoint is not the only culprit here. CenterPoint didnt get to this point by themselves.

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Back in January 2023, two administrative judges wrote in a scathing 70-page ruling that state regulators should not let CenterPoint pass its generator costs to consumers. Citing thousands of pages of evidence and public testimony, the judges blasted CenterPoints extremely short process for acquiring generators and said the utility didnt persuasively demonstrate why it needed so much generation capacity.

Yet weeks after the ruling came out, King and Alvarado asked the regulators in two separate letters to ignore the judges decision and approve CenterPoints investment anyway.

At the time, their letters praised the company for acquiring such a large amount of generation capacity. Meanwhile, CenterPoint had already acknowledged to the judges that its large generators had never been deployed and wouldnt be able to power facilities like hospitals after a hurricane.

That same year, Schwertner and King headed up the powerful Texas Senate Business and Commerce Committee that handles most utility-related issues in the Legislature. They helped push through two new laws that made it easier for CenterPoint to acquire generators and harder for regulators to scrutinize the costs.

Turner sent multiple city staffers to Austin to testify about their concerns in front of the committee. He said they also reached out to lawmakers who represented the Houston area, including Alvarado, Bettencourt and then-state Sen. John Whitmire, now Houstons mayor. Yet the proposals still sailed through the Legislature with near-unanimous approval.

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They either werent paying attention or knew what was going on and did it anyway, said Doug Lewin, an industry consultant who writes the popular Texas Energy and Power newsletter.

King did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Last week, King said that the laws he authored over the years were intended only to allow CenterPoint to lease smaller, mobile generators, not large ones  though those same laws had actually stripped out suggested size limits.

In an email to the Chronicle, Schwertner accused CenterPoint of circumventing the intent of the law and abusing the regulatory process and pledged to hold the company accountable.

Whitmire said in a statement that as a Senator during a legislative session, we hear and vote on hundreds of bills during the five month period. He added that he voted for the bills in part because they made it through the business and commerce committee with unanimous approval.

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In interviews, Bettencourt and Alvarado both said they have no recollection of being warned by Houston officials or anyone else about issues with CenterPoints generators. They also pointed out that they arent members of the committee.

Bettencourt said he wasnt aware of the administrative law judges decision until he was doing my homework the week before the recent Senate hearing.

Im not sure at the time everybody would have been able to connect all the dots like we could do at this point, he said, referring to the bills he voted for in 2023.

Alvarado said CenterPoint had asked her to write the letter urging regulators to approve its generator investment. She said the company told her it would be the quickest way to get power back to our constituents after a power outage.

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Were listening to the people that provide power to our constituents, which is CenterPoint, she said. Those are the only ones that came to us.

CenterPoint acknowledged in recent weeks that most of the generators that make up its $800 million investment are not designed to be mobile, though it repeatedly made the opposite claim to regulators, lawmakers and investors when seeking funding. The company more recently leased 13 much smaller generators, which it deployed during Beryl, but it would not disclose the costs.

Prior to the purchase of these large scale temporary generators, there were numerous legislative and regulatory hearings, CenterPoint spokesperson John Sousa wrote in an email. Sousa added that if state officials now want a different approach, we are supportive of having this discussion and committed to doing what is best for our customers.

2021 tragedy prompts new legislation

During Winter Storm Uri in February 2021, a shortage of natural gas prevented power plant owners from meeting electricity demand. To prevent a total collapse of the Texas power grid, the grid operator ordered blackouts across the state  known as load shed events. More than 200 people died.

In the wake of the tragedy, King, who was a state representative at the time, had an idea: Why not let the utility companies who deliver that electricity via transmission and distribution lines acquire their own mobile generators?

During a legislative committee hearing about a month after Uri, King told fellow lawmakers that regulators would keep a watchful eye over the process. He also said the cost to consumers would be extremely small. (In fact, the generators CenterPoint leased have already added $2.39 to the average residential customers monthly electric bill, records show.)

King did not propose any limits on the size of the generators that CenterPoint and its peers could lease. But King did agree to add two key restrictions: the companies would be allowed only to rent generators, not own them, and they could deploy them only during load shed events like Uri. They could not use generators after a hurricane or tornado rolled through and damaged power lines.

Kings assurances, along with those two caveats, helped convince many skeptics. His bill passed the Texas House and Senate almost unanimously, including with support from Alvarado, Bettencourt, Schwertner and Whitmire.

In an interview, Democratic state Sen. Nathan Johnson said he supported the bill because the concept that was presented to us was mobile generation for emergencies on a limited scale.

I did not vote for a sketchy, flawed procurement process of non-mobile generation, said Johnson.

Yet documents indicate thats exactly what happened.

An 'unreasonable' expense

CenterPoint shared details of the generators to the Public Utility Commission, which oversees utility companies, in April 2022. The request came in a routine 340-page application to increase electricity rates.

The company wanted to recoup $200 million, including a 6.5% profit margin, but that would just cover its costs for 2021. It actually spent more than $800 million, as the proceedings would eventually reveal.

Nearly a dozen trade groups and municipalities protested, including the city of Houston. They asked: Why choose to lease 500 megawatts when no other utility came close to acquiring that amount? Were the generators actually worth the cost? And did CenterPoint really get the best deal for them?

During a three-day hearing on the matter in October 2022, witnesses for CenterPoint said the company chose to go big because of what happened during Uri. Because CenterPoints service territory accounts for a significant portion of Texas power demand, the Houston region was forced to bear the brunt of the extended power outages ordered across the state.

Still, a CenterPoint executive testified that there was no other documentation to justify the decision.

Did we provide an in-depth analysis? said Martin Narendorf Jr. under cross-examination. No, I dont remember providing that.

The hearing also unearthed records suggesting CenterPoint did not use a competitive bidding process to procure the generators. The utility put out its initial request for bids at 5 p.m. on a Tuesday, with responses due Friday at noon. Hours before the request went out, internal emails show then-CenterPoint Chief Financial Officer Jason Wells already talking to employees of a little-known company called Life Cycle Power, which ultimately won the deal. Wells is now CenterPoints CEO.

CenterPoint Houston used a robust process and worked hard in contract negotiations to obtain the right facilities, and, quite frankly, the only facilities that it could get from the only vendor who could provide them with the right facilities and the right amount, Mark Santos, a lawyer for CenterPoint, testified in response.

During the hearing, CenterPoint also pointed out that even though none of its large, 32-megawatt generators had been put to use yet, the utility had deployed one of the medium-sized, 5-megawatt ones to power a cooling center during 2021s Hurricane Nicholas.

In January 2023, three months after the hearing, the administrative judges who presided over it issued an extraordinary ruling. They wrote that CenterPoints arguments were not persuasive and said they didnt believe the utility should be allowed to pass on any of the $200 million generator costs to ratepayers.

It is unreasonable to place the burden on ratepayers of expenses imprudently incurred, they wrote.

The judges also ruled CenterPoints deployment of its 5-megawatt generator during Nicholas had been against the law since the hurricane wasnt a load shed event. They acknowledged that decision might appear hypertechnical to Texans suffering in extreme cold or heat without electricity, but wrote that lawmakers left them no choice.

The final decision rested with the five commissioners leading the PUC, who are appointed by the governor. And weeks after their ruling, Alvarado sent a letter urging regulators to recognize that CenterPoints generators were not only appropriate but also a wise move.

King  then a member of the state Senate  would seize on the issue with the 5-megawatt generator in his own letter demanding that the commission ignore the judges concerns.

As the bill author, I made clear during the legislative process that these facilities could be used on the distribution system in response to severe weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes, King wrote in his letter to the commissioners  even though the law he had written in 2021 actually said the opposite.

He asked the PUC to reject the judges interpretations that would needlessly force Texans to endure hardship.

Soon afterward the PUC did just that. In a 4-1 vote in April 2023, commissioners allowed CenterPoint to recoup the $200 million from ratepayers. The commission later approved a separate request from the company to pass on another $150 million of the costs.

That left another few hundred million to go. And during the 2023 state legislative session, lawmakers would make it even easier for CenterPoint to recover the rest.

This is sticker shock

In March 2023, King was back in front of his colleagues with more to say about generators. As vice chair of the Texas Senate Business and Commerce Committee, he had more power to push his ideas through.

This time, King proposed letting utilities use generators in many kinds of significant power outages, including after hurricanes that damaged power lines. He also said they should be allowed to own them outright.

Critics immediately protested. CenterPoint was supposed to be focused on making sure its power lines could withstand big storms. What incentive would the utility have to do that if it could instead acquire a new set of expensive generators to roll in after hurricanes  and also collect a guaranteed profit on the investment?

It would be extremely inefficient, and very detrimental to ratepayers, to sink significantly more funds into temporary generators for utilities, said Tina Paez, director of regulatory affairs for the City of Houston, in written comments to the business and commerce committee that spring.

The proposal ended up becoming law under the radar, when King attached it to a much larger piece of omnibus energy-related legislation toward the end of the legislative session. Schwertner brought the bill forward for a final reading, and most legislators voted for it, including Alvarado, Bettencourt and Whitmire.

Republican state Sen. Kelly Hancock, who had long been skeptical of allowing utilities to own generators, said he felt he had no choice but to support the law in the end. He said he did so because King had at least agreed to tweak the language and prohibit utilities from owning generators.

Every omnibus bill has things you dont like, Hancock said.

A string of compromises also followed the introduction of another bill with even more far-reaching consequences  one that would make it much more difficult for regulators to adequately oversee CenterPoints spending or for ratepayers to protest it.

That bill, also introduced by King, proposed allowing utilities to ask permission for electricity hikes twice a year, rather than just once a year. It would also completely eliminate cities ability to get involved in PUC protest proceedings.

MORE RATE HIKES: Texans could see 'sizable' electric rate hikes under state proposal

Again, Houston officials balked. They had managed to save ratepayers $80 million from 2015 to 2019 by intervening in CenterPoints rate hike applications, Paez told lawmakers. Under Kings proposal, that might prove impossible.

That is sticker shock  without requiring an actual review process, Paez testified before the business and commerce committee. A city of Dallas official also testified against the bill for similar reasons.

King said he disagreed. If utilities were later found to have increased rates too much, he pointed out, regulators could still refund customers during a separate and more comprehensive rate hike application proceeding  though that only occurs every four years.

At the end of the day its gonna save money for customers, King told lawmakers at the same hearing.

King later agreed to let cities continue to be involved in the rate review process, so Houston officials withdrew their opposition to the bill. In retrospect, that was a mistake, said Bill Kelly, who led lobbying efforts for the city at the time, in a recent interview.

Thats because the final law also slashed the amount of time the PUC had to consider rate hikes from 120 days to 60 days.

We got played, Kelly said. With the hearing time cut in half  it really wrecked the whole process.

Again, most legislators, including Alvarado, Bettencourt, Schwertner and Whitmire, voted for the bill.

Now, as the Houston region digs out from Hurricane Beryl, legislators claim they want to claw back the costs of the generators, which could technically happen during the next major rate case proceeding before the PUC. But forcing CenterPoint to suddenly be on the hook for $800 million it has already spent would be a tall order.

That really would ripple through the capital markets, Lewin said. The better thing is to say, OK, this was a mess. Everybody recognizes this was a mess. You dont get any profits from it.

Still, with a 6.5% rate of return, those profits amount to around $30 million, he pointed out. Thats only a fraction of the $917 million profit the company made last year.

Its a rounding error, Lewin said.
Chinese foundation hailed for contributions to poverty alleviation in Cambodia

Xinhua) 10:51, August 07, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A recent study found that teens use their phones in school for a median of 43 minutes a day  the equivalent of a full class period. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

In February, some Houston ISD schools increased enforcement of a district-wide policy that banned student cell phone use on all campuses at all times with the exception of lunch. Advocates say policies like these will reduce classroom distractions, improve student attention span and boost academic achievement.

HISD students hated the ban. At James Madison High School, student outrage boiled over into an outright walkout. A small poll by The Upstream, Carnegie Vanguard High Schools student-run news site, found that 85% of students across HISD argued that the phone ban did not positively affect their school experience, and 64% disputed that phones are disruptive to learning.

Its the children who are wrong: Phones really do distract from learning. A 2023 study found that smartphone use at school was nearly universal. The median teen picked up their phone 13 times per school day (one student picked up their phone a whopping 229 times), and used their phone in school for 43 minutes a day.

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Thats roughly a full class period. Over the course of an entire school year, thats a whole lot of lost learning time.

In February, Madison High School staged a walkout to protest the campus cell-phone ban. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Whats more, a 2022 study of students from all over the world found that students who spend less than an hour per day of leisure time on digital devices performed 50 points higher in math on the standardized PISA test than students who use their devices for five or more hours a day  a huge gap.

For Texas students who are disadvantaged or otherwise struggling in school, such a discrepancy could make or break their future prospects. Study after study confirms the wisdom of phone bans; potential benefits include improved school discipline or anti-bullying efforts.

Its extremely hard for individual teachers to prohibit cell-phone use in their classrooms if the phones are allowed everywhere else in school. And a school that bans cell-phone use will have to brace itself for complaints from both students and parents, some of whom legitimately worry about not being able to contact their children during school hours.

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MIKE MILES ON HISD: 'I can unequivocally say we have had a successful year'

Ideally, every school district would implement its own ban. Despite the backlash in HISD, other large school districts in Texas  including Keller, Katy, Killeen and Richardson  have implemented or are planning to implement some sort of restriction on phone use during school hours.

Unfortunately, not every district has the means or the willpower to do so. And given the outsize negative impact phones have had on student learning and mental health, Texas state government should require every school district in Texas to ban phones in schools. Other states  including Florida, Indiana and Ohio  have already passed statewide phone bans, and the issue appears to have broad bipartisan support.

Houston ISD bans cell phones in schools. Above: A sign at Audrey H. Lawson Middle School. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

To make it easier to enforce the bans, Texas could also provide schools resources such as Google Chromebooks (used only for school activities while also enabling parents to email their students), cell phone holders for every teacher or magnetically locked pouches that keep students from their devices during the school day.

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The state could also strengthen civil liability protections for teachers and administrators who put themselves at risk while trying to confiscate a students phone. Too often, teachers are sucker-punched, verbally and physically harassed, or otherwise attacked for trying to enforce common-sense cell phone restrictions. If the state gives districts a reason not to fear frivolous lawsuits from parents, the districts will have a much greater incentive to support teachers in their pandemonium-prevention efforts.

Regardless of the exact shape these policies take, the time to ban phones in schools was yesterday. Phone bans will help schools enforce discipline, help students stay focused and attentive in class and may even boost test scores. Districts should follow Houston ISDs lead now, and the state should support them during the next legislative session. Our students need this.

Garion Frankel is a Ph.D student in PK-12 educational leadership at Texas A&M University. He is a State Beat fellow for Young Voices, and his work has appeared in outlets like USA Today, Newsweek, the Houston Chronicle and many other newspapers around Texas.

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At her first campaign rally, Kamala Harris pledged to take on corporate landlords and cap unfair rent increases. John Bazemore/AP

At her first major campaign rally after becoming the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris made a relatively unexpected promise.

Speaking in Atlanta to a crowd of 10,000 supporters, Harris pledged to take on corporate landlords and cap unfair rent increases.

Harris remarks to cap rents echoed a recent proposal from the Biden administration just two weeks earlier to limit rent hikes to 5 percent nationwide over the next two years for all landlords who own more than 50 units. The Biden plan  which would require congressional approval  would exempt not-yet-built units, so as to not discourage much-needed new housing.

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It wasnt clear Harris was going to stick to a pro-renter position on the presidential campaign trail  shes already abandoned several more left-wing stances she previously embraced while a candidate in 2020. Over the last 10 days, Harris has rejected Medicare for All, distanced herself from a federal jobs guarantee, and said she would no longer oppose fracking.

But when it comes to affordable housing, Harris has so far stuck closely with the political playbook of the president, who started campaigning on lowering housing costs more aggressively this year.

Over 22 million households now spend more than a third of their income on rent, and home mortgage rates have soared since 2022.

Rent caps, however, have long been controversial among economists, most of whom argue that the policy hurts housing markets and ultimately limits supply, thus driving costs up further. A review of more than 200 empirical rent control studies released in March found a wide range of adverse effects for communities with rent caps, and that landlords were more likely to allow rent-capped units to fall into disrepair.

From a campaign perspective, rent caps poll quite well. In one May survey published by Navigator, a Democratic-aligned research group, pollsters found most voters overwhelmingly support cracking down on rent-gouging by corporate landlords, and cracking down on misleading rental fees. Measures to build more homes as a way to drive affordability were far less popular with voters, by contrast, than providing financial aid to renters and regulating rents.

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A Redfin-commissioned survey from February found almost two-thirds of homeowners and renters said that housing affordability made them feel negatively about the economy. Other surveys have suggested that many of the young people and voters of color who helped Biden win in 2020 were now wavering in their support for him, and those voters are more likely to be renters.

Activist pressure came largely from the Tenant Union Federation, a national group that seeks to mobilize renters to advocate for higher standards. This group, formerly known as the Homes Guarantee Campaign, had successfully pushed the Biden administration to release a nonbinding blueprint for a renters bill of rights in January 2023, and since turned its sights to rent control. Activists were specifically interested in rent control Biden could enact without going through Congress, and homed in on the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which regulates the entities that issue billions in government-backed mortgages every year.

In a letter the Tenant Union Federation sent to the Federal Housing Finance Agency last fall, activists noted that 182 cities and municipalities across the country had some form of rent regulation as of 2018, and California, like Oregon, had passed new statewide rent limits in the last five years.

Despite successfully pushing federal lawmakers to embrace potential new renter protections and even rent control, Biden and, so far, Harris have declined to go as far as the Tenant Union Federation wants. Some activists, for example, oppose the idea that rent caps would be temporary and exempt new units. The president also declined to endorse a plan that relied solely on his own executive power.

Legislative tea leaves suggest that Congress is likely to move forward with some sort of federal housing package next year. If Democrats sweep in November, and Harris continues to champion rent control, a national rent-cap policy looks a lot more likely. Whether that takes the form of a broad restriction on corporate landlords, or something more targeted to properties with government-backed mortgages is less clear. However, if Republicans retain control of at least the House or Senate, then the odds of rent caps being passed through Congress are virtually nonexistent.

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Tenant activists, meanwhile, will continue to pressure Biden, and Harris, to use presidential executive authority to limit rent hikes. At this point, its unclear whether Harris would embrace such a move if she wins the election, even as her boss has thus demurred. The Harris campaign did not return a request for comment.
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Kim Ogg greets Senator Ted Cruz as he took the stage during a law enforcement and public safety rally with law enforcement leaders at King's Bierhaus on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Kim Ogg speaks as Senator Ted Cruz hosted a law enforcement and public safety rally with law enforcement leaders at King's Bierhaus on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg is shown after a news conference at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center, 1201 Franklin St., Tuesday, July 23, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Democratic Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg is crossing the aisle and endorsing U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz in his reelection bid against U.S. Rep. Colin Allred.

The announcement Tuesday evening at a campaign event in Houston comes as Ogg has increasingly been at odds with her party. The Harris County Democratic Party voted to admonish Ogg late last year and she was defeated in the March primary election.

Ogg said she was driven by Cruzs strict stances on illegal immigration, which she tied to local crime.

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We are seeing a problem at our border, and I am taking this opportunity to endorse Senator Ted Cruz, Ogg said, describing a series of alleged crimes committed by those in the country illegally in Houston. She pointed to the killing of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray earlier this summer, which prosecutors have accused two Venezuelan nationals of carrying out.

Ogg recently penned an op-ed with Cruz in the Houston Chronicle supporting his new legislation to keep migrants in detention if beds are available. She told the crowd on Tuesday that Jocelyn would still be alive if Cruzs bill was in place.

Hear this Houston: public safety is more important than political parties, Ogg said. Period.

Studies show that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than U.S. citizens. Immigrants without legal authorization in Texas were 26% less likely than a native-born United States citizen to face a homicide conviction, with immigrants in the country legally 61% less likely.

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READ MORE: Harris County DA Kim Ogg concedes to Sean Teare in heated Democratic primary race

The endorsement comes as Cruz has sought to tout bipartisan accomplishments and appeal to voters on the other side of the aisle  even going so far as to launch a Democrats for Cruz group  despite a longstanding reputation as a partisan fighter.

Since my election to the Senate, my priority has been to deliver results for Texans and to fight against bad policies that encroach on our Texan way of life, which is why I will continue working hand in hand with Republicans and Democrats across the state to ensure that we Keep Texas, Texas, in November, Cruz said in a statement.

At the rally, he called Oggs support a big damn deal, and said Democrats arent doing enough to put murderers, rapists and child molesters behind bars.

The Texas Democratic Party has responded to the attack by pointing to a series of votes by Cruz that it says shows he is not serious about helping law enforcement. Those included his vote against a bipartisan gun bill in 2022 that offered millions in grants for police.

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Ted Cruz stands against bipartisan efforts to support law enforcement because he only cares about his petty politics and self-serving grandstanding  not supporting the men and women who are working to keep Texans safe, Texas Democratic Party spokesperson Ryan Radulovacki said. Standing with our police and border patrol means working with both parties, and thats something Ted Cruz refuses to do.

Cruz was repeatedly interrupted during his speech on Tuesday by two pro-Palestinian protesters. Each time, the crowd cheered over them, and eventually some crowd members grabbed and pushed one of the protestors out of the building. Cruz took both interruptions as an opportunity to voice his support for Israel in its invasion of Gaza.

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated that two Venezuelan nationals have been found guilty of killing Jocelyn Nungaray. They have been charged with capital murder in the case, but neither has been convicted.
Ronnie Gerald Mack Jr., 44, of 1545 Arista Road, Bowman, pleaded guilty to non-violent second-degree burglary during a recent term of court at the Orangeburg County Courthouse.

Circuit Judge Heath P. Taylor sentenced Mack to six years in prison. Mack was given credit for serving 155 days in jail.

In other recent guilty pleas at the Orangeburg County Courthouse:

 Marc Anthony Rushing Jr., 21, of 286 Lake Edisto Drive, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to second-degree burglary, although he was originally charged with first-degree burglary.

Taylor sentenced him under the Youthful Offender Act not to exceed six years. Because Rushing served 37 days in jail, his term was suspended to probation for three years.

Taylor ordered him to obtain his GED, complete substance abuse counseling and undergo random drug/alcohol testing.

 Roger Dale Sturkie, 52, of 1016 Bedford Avenue, North, pleaded guilty to non-violent second-degree burglary.

Taylor sentenced him to prison for three years. Because Sturkie served eight days in jail, his term was suspended to probation for two years.

 Nathaniel Joseph Alphonse Sutera, 25, of 112 Wildeway Lane, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to first-offense third-degree burglary and non-violent second-degree burglary, although he was originally charged with violent second-degree burglary.

Taylor sentenced him under the Youthful Offender Act not to exceed six years.

He gave Sutera credit for serving 182 days in jail and ordered him to pay restitution.

Sutera faced the following charges, but they were dismissed: malicious injury to personal property valued $2,000 or less, trespassing and petit larceny valued $2,000 or less.

 Rayfield Youngblood, 46, of 1159 Clarks Mill Road, Louisville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person convicted of a violent felony and threatening the life of a public official.

Taylor sentenced him to prison for five years. Because Youngblood already served 92 days in jail, his term was suspended to probation for two years.

Youngblood must also complete substance abuse counseling and undergo random drug/alcohol testing.

 Javall Curry, 32, of 126 Michael Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to unlawfully placing a child at risk.

Taylor sentenced him to prison for five years. Because Curry already served two days in jail, his term was suspended to probation for two years.

Curry is required to successfully complete an anger management class.

He faced the following charges, but they were dismissed: malicious injury to personal property valued $2,000 or less and second-degree domestic violence.

 Ivery Dyer III, 31, of 495 Ellis Avenue, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to first-degree domestic violence.

Taylor sentenced him to prison for five years. Because Dyer already served four days in jail, his term was suspended to probation for two years.

Dyer is required to successfully complete a domestic violence intervention program.

He was also charged with second-degree domestic violence, but that charge was dismissed.

 Shannon Derrell Edmonds, 37, of 1392 Slab Landing Road, North, pleaded guilty to third or subsequent driving under suspension license not suspended for driving under the influence and first-offense possession of a scheduled drug.

Taylor ordered him to pay a $50 fine in 60 days or report to jail for 10 days.

 Quincy James Smith, 36, of 205 Oakmont Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to first-offense possession of a scheduled drug.

Circuit Judge J. Cordell Maddox Jr. sentenced him to 86 days in jail. Smith was given credit for time served.
Vance officials expressed gratitude to Faith Santee during the town councils monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 30.

Mayor Michael Aiken Sr. said that some church members contacted him, saying they felt motivated to help the town, and asked him what they could do.

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As a result, volunteers pressure-washed the outside of the Family & Friends Center, which is used for council meetings and community events.

Bamberg, Calhoun, Orangeburg county towns eligible for federal grants Nine Orangeburg County municipalities can access federal grant money as a result of being classified as low to moderate income, according to Lower Savannah Council of Governments Executive Director Bill Molnar.

In other business, officials discussed the need to touch up, repaint, or replace faded welcome signs at the town limits.

VANCE TOWN COUNCIL: Officials learn about planning, zoning options Dramatic growth leading eastern Orangeburg County officials to revamp planning and zoning functions, with Vance Town Council considering future strategies.

Mayor Pro Tem Carolyn Bush encouraged the council to form a committee to consider how to use the Vance-Providence Elementary School property. The Orangeburg County School District intends to close the school next June, demolish the oldest portion, and give the property to the town. Beginning in August 2025, area students will attend the East Lake Elementary School that is now under construction in Holly Hill.

Aiken announced that voter registration forms are available for pickup at the Town Hall, 465 Camden Road. Name and/or address changes can also be reported on the forms.

A local resident expressed concern that motorists are still traveling too fast through a congested area on Old Number Six Highway, creating hazardous conditions. He proposed a petition campaign to lower the speed limit. Aiken said that the state Highway Patrol has stepped up traffic law enforcement in that area.

VANCE TOWN COUNCIL: Officials discuss benefits, complications of zoning An article about zoning laws presented at a Vance town council meeting, addressing concerns over a serpentarium and discussing budget, smoking, and fire department matters.

The council gave first reading to ordinances updating procedures for conducting council meetings and purchasing items.

Second and final reading of those ordinances is likely to occur at the Vance Town Councils next monthly meeting, scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, in the Family & Friends Center at 608 Camden Road.
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 couldn't get into because of the high water," Metz said. "They could get left behind when the water recedes. That's 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

America's 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 isn't 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 aren't 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 aren't 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 you'll get a strong or high influx of mosquito activity."

Once rain stops and flood waters recede, it's a good idea to empty items holding water outside your home, like planters, tires, bird baths and trash cans.
Nuvama Private, the private banking arm of Nuvama Group - one of Indias largest, listed Institutionally backed wealth management firm, has announced the launch of its regional operations with the opening of its new office in the Dubai International Financial Centre.

With a CAT III C licence, Nuvama Private is one of few Indian private banks that is authorised to provide advice and to distribute investment products.

Traditionally, Global HNW and UHNW clients have been served by banks or local External Asset Managers (EAMs) in the region and have had limited access to participate in the Indian public and private market opportunities, that have evolved over the last few years.

The move enables NRIs and global clients access to one of the fastest growing markets globally, through Nuvama and concurrently, it will also allow Nuvama private to serve the ever-growing needs of their Indian clients who are looking to diversify beyond their India investments currently.

Alok Saigal, the President & Head of Nuvama Private, said: "There is a growing aspirational class of global investors who are looking to participate in the India growth story. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), a part of this investor set already account for about one quarter of the expatriate population in Dubai. Increasing numbers of these people are UHNW individuals."

"We intimately understand the needs and persona of the Indian mindset, and their need for all-inclusive and tailored wealth management solutions. And hence would like to be the preferred partner for their private banking needs, for both onshore and offshore solutions," he added.

Vivek Sharma, Head, Offshore, Nuvama Private, said: "We feel that with the evolution of Indian UHNW families, their needs are becoming global, and we would like to play an integral role in serving both the local and global needs of such families, through our DIFC arm along with our already well-established India practice."

Nuvama Private has appointed Vishwajit Patil as the Senior Executive Officer (SEO) for Nuvama Private DIFC. With over 20 years of extensive experience in banking, wealth management, and leadership, Patil brings valuable expertise to the dynamic team.

Salmaan Jaffery, Chief Business Development Officer, DIFC Authority, said: "We would like to congratulate Nuvama on the opening of their DIFC office and thank them for choosing us to be their home in the region. DIFC provides vast opportunities for our wealth and asset management sector clients given Dubai has the highest concentration of wealth of any Middle Eastern city."

"The city also includes a significant non-resident Indian population who will be familiar with Nuvama, which provides them with an advantage. We are looking forward to working with Nuvama so they can achieve their growth aspirations from the regions leading global financial centre," he added.
BHM Capital Financial Services has announced that it will be seeking the shareholders' approval for acquisition of UAE-based AlWaqan Capital Investment. The transaction will be done through a capital hike of AED4.85 billion ($1.32 billion) in exchange for issuance of new shares.

A leading provider of securities brokerage and investment management services based in Dubai, BHM Capital offers investors a wide range of services to facilitate trading, clearing and settlement.

In its filing to Dubai Financial Market (DFM), the company said the proposal to acquire AlWaqan Capital Investment will be carried out through a capital increase of AED4.85 billion ($1.32 billion) - taking the total from AED173.4 million ($47.2 million) to AED5.023 billion ($1.36 billion).

BHM Capital Financial Services recently held its General Assembly Meeting virtually to discuss the proposal.

As per the deal, the capital hike will be used in exchange for in-kind shares and issuance of new shares in the company to the shareholders of AlWaqan Capital Investment, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
Dubais Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has issued a total of 52,571 no-objection certificates (NOCs) for infrastructure works and projects in the first half of 2024, achieving a growth of 13.4% compared to the same period last year.

This accomplishment highlights the efficiency and flexibility of service delivery through the Electronic NOC System and underscores RTAs efforts to sustain Dubais development trajectory, enhancing its position as a global hub for competitiveness and business operations.

RTAs Electronic NOC system is an integrated platform that includes 11 different service entities under one umbrella to issue unified NOCs for infrastructure works within the right-of-way.

The processing time for each application ranges from three to seven days, depending on the nature and scale of the work.

Bassel Ibrahim Saad, Director of Right-of-Way, Traffic and Roads Agency, RTA, said: "The first half of 2024 saw a remarkable increase in applications for NOCs for infrastructure projects in Dubai. NOCs for road and construction works accounted for the largest share at 45.4% of the total issued certificates, which reflects the high demand and thriving activities in the construction, engineering consultancy, and real estate development sectors."

"The remaining portion was distributed among design works, exploratory drilling, information services, and completion certificates," noted Saad.

The system, he stated, was user-friendly and had increased customer satisfaction ratings. It has also promoted sustainability by eliminating paper transactions and reducing the number of customer visits to service centres.

RTA continuously seeks to upgrade the Electronic NOC system, enhancing service quality and delivery times, thus ensuring dynamic and flexible business operations for companies and real estate developers in Dubai," he noted.

"RTA is committed to strengthening cooperation with relevant service entities to ensure the sustainability of infrastructure projects and works in Dubai. The Electronic NOC system encompasses several RTA departments as well as government service providers, such as Dubai Municipality, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa), Etisalat (e&), Du, Etihad Rail, Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), Dubai Supply Authority, Ministry of Defence, Dubai Airports, and Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects," he added.
Raimondi, a leading manufacturer of quality topless tower and luffing cranes, has announced the successful deployment of five luffing jib cranes at the site of a key residential high-rise in Dubai.

Strategically situated at the intersection of Downtown Dubai and Business Bay, the new development spans over 1.42 million sq ft featuring a total of 1,030 units across two towers.

Installed in Q2, the Raimondi LR213 units are all currently freestanding at 45m with jib lengths ranging between 44.5m and 55m, said the company in a statement.

Based on site progression, four out of the five luffers will be externally climbed to reach the impressive heights of 145m and 190m. Equipped with a 55kW hoisting winch with a drum capacity of 880m, the cranes lift at a maximum speed up to 104 meters per minute, it stated.

"By renting these five Raimondi LR213s we continue to prove our strong flow of commercial activity and active involvement in the development of the region," remarked Wael Hasan, the General Manager of Raimondi Middle East.

"Participating in this high-profile project underscores our fleet reliability and efficiency, while reflecting our commitment to providing solutions that cater to the complex urban construction projects," he noted.

Raimondi pointed out that the 14 tonne model offers great lifting capacities and flexibility, facilitating the efficient handling of heavy materials and components, streamlining the construction process and enhancing site safety. These cranes were installed with meticulous planning and precision, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding areas while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency, it added.

Hasan pointed out that the LR213 had been selected to meet the specific requirements of the projects contractor.

Also it will help ensure timely and safe execution, while avoiding collision and overfly of surrounding properties; thus making it ideal for high-rise construction in densely populated areas, explained Hasan, highlighting how this specific model helped in the development of similar projects across the UAE.

Raimondi Middle East's technical team will continue to provide onsite support throughout the projects duration, including the several climbing stages to allow the crane to reach the final heights, as well as the dismantling procedures, said the top official.

The LR213s will remain onsite for approximately 18 to 22 months. Upon completion, the new residential development will offer high-end housing units, luxurious amenities, recreative areas, and restaurants, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
It was previously confirmed by Apple that Apple Intelligence is not coming to the European Union (EU) and China earlier this June, but a new development in the latest beta release notes brings the generative AI system for the EU. However, there is a catch, as it would only be available for Mac computers, and it would be part of the upcoming macOS 15 Sequoia release.

For now, the Apple Developer Beta's program already confirmed Apple Intelligence's availability in the EU with its specific wording. It is not yet quite available like other regions in the world.

The macOS 15.1 Sequoia Beta Confirms EU Availability

Apple's latest update to the macOS 15.1 Sequoia's beta release notes make it clear that Apple Intelligence is coming to the EU in the future.

Despite this confirmation from Apple, it is known that Cupertino giant is currently working with EU regulators to bring Apple Intelligence to iPhones and iPads. However, it is not risking any DMA violations, which is why it is blocked for now.

Apple Intelligence is Coming to the EU, But Only via Macs

The latest episode this week of the Upgrade podcast had a listener revealing the latest changes on macOS Sequoia 15.1 beta release notes from Apple, revealing that China is the only region that would not get Apple Intelligence. Before this 15.1 beta version's release date, Apple claimed that Sequoia's Apple intelligence access would not be available for even for the EU.

It is also known that Apple's capabilities to deliver its generative AI tech to these regions is not in question. Rather, its adherence to laws and regulations is one of the main reasons behind it.

That being said, the tech giant is still blocking Apple Intelligence's availability in the EU and China for iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, as per the latest beta release notes, until further notice.

Read Also : Apple Intelligence Focuses on Gradual Release Ahead of Next-Gen iPhone Launch

Apple Intelligence and its Current Accessibility

To date, Apple Intelligence is known for being the latest limited technology from the company, which was reportedly not going to be immediately available on its operating system releases, on any device, across its global regions. This is because Apple is planning to release its take on generative AI later. Specifically, eligible iPhones would only get this come iOS 18.4.

Apple revealed that only selected devices would receive the Apple Intelligence experience, and it would only be available for iPhone 15 Pro devices and later. For iPads equipped with the M1 chips and later, it would also be made accessible. The same goes for Mac computers that already have the Apple Silicon SoC, as M-series can accommodate the new AI tech.

Being a limited release from tech giant, the current beta program still does not have a preview for Apple Intelligence, but it already offers the revamped Siri for users to familiarize themselves.

After claiming that AI would not be available from Apple in the EU, that changed now in its beta release notes, and while it will still not be available to iPhones and iPads, Mac owners in the region could soon access Apple Intelligence.
Work is currently underway on the Jeddah Tower (previously the Kingdom Tower) in Saudi Arabia, one of the most ambitious construction projects in human history, reported Newsweek , citing new satellite imagery.

The massive skyscraper project is being developed by Jeddah Economic Company (JEC), a joint venture between Kingdom Holding Company, of which it holds a substantial interest, Abrar Holding Company, Qilaa Jeddah Company, and Saudi Binladin Group.

The building was designed by architect Adrian Smith, who also designed the current tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, as well as the Trump Tower in Chicago.

Construction on the Jeddah Tower began in 2009, before it was paused in 2018 due to the purges in Saudi Arabia, which impacted contractors working on the site, said the report.

Now new satellite imagery provided to Newsweek shows that work is progressing well with parts of the tower being assembled at the construction site, including the tripod-style base, centered about 20km away from the Jeddah city port.

Standing tall at about 3,300 ft high, the Jeddah Tower will become the tallest building in the world, beating out the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which stands at 2,722 ft.

At the top, the tower would boast the highest observation deck in the world, reached by a system of 59 elevators.

The design is so tall that no elevator is able to run from the highest occupied floor to the bottom, because the cables would be too heavy and potentially unsafe, said the Newsweek report.

Kone, a global leader in elevators and escalators, will deliver the worlds fastest and highest double-decker elevators to the skyscraper. The tower will be equipped with a total of 65 Kone elevators and escalators including 21 Kone MonoSpace elevators, 29 Kone MiniSpace elevators, seven Kone DoubleDeck MiniSpace elevators and eight Kone TravelMaster 110 escalators, reported Gulf Construction The Kone DoubleDeck MiniSpace elevators will utilise what is described as revolutionary Kone UltraRope hoisting technology. Seven of the towers 170 storeys will be allocated for the five-star Four Seasons hotel offering 200 rooms, 11 storeys for 121 luxury serviced apartments, and seven storeys for offices. It will also have 61 storeys that include 318 housing units of various types, along with amenities that include gyms, spas, cafes and restaurants, two sky lobbies and the worlds highest observation decks, located at a height of 644 m, enabling visitors to view the city of Jeddah and the Red Sea from high in the sky. A further double-height eight full refuge floors that are fire resistant will be allocated throughout the tower. The skyscraper will feature a sky terrace  roughly 30 m in diameter  at level 157, which will be an outdoor amenity space intended for use by the penthouse floor. The Towers Observatory Deck; A steel and concrete palm shows a breath taking view of the city around and the Red Sea, introducing an inspirational sight as far as the eye can see.

According to other news reports, construction on Jeddah Tower faced interruptions in 2018 due to developments within the Binladin Group, the project's contractor. The Covid-19 pandemic further delayed progress. However, in September 2023, reports surfaced that construction had resumed.

At the time of its pause, about a third of Jeddah Tower had been completed. Once finished, it will stand at a towering height of 3,281 ft, surpassing the Burj Khalifa by approximately 564 ft.

Functionally, Jeddah Tower will serve as a mixed-use complex, incorporating residential, commercial, and office spaces. Additionally, plans include an observation deck, set to become the world's tallest, a Four Seasons hotel, and a sprawling outdoor balcony originally designed as a helipad.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced amendments to several articles of the labor law, approved by the Cabinet session today.

The ministry stated that these amendments aim to improve the labor market in Saudi Arabia, enhance job stability, protect the rights of all parties involved in employment contracts, develop human capital, promote training opportunities for workers, and increase job opportunities for Saudi citizens.

The new amendments include modifications to 38 articles, the removal of 7 articles, and the addition of 2 new articles to the labor law. These amendments support the ongoing development of existing regulations and laws to bolster the market, production, and service sectors. They provide a suitable legislative environment and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), aiming to create more job opportunities for citizens and achieve sustainable development goals, in accordance with the labor market strategy and the objectives of Vision 2030.

The amendments will contribute to creating a more attractive work environment for employees and achieving sustainable development, it said.

These amendments also align with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's labor market strategy and its ratified international agreements, a Saudi Press Agency report said quoting the ministry.

The ministry indicated that the new amendments were made after an extensive study that included benchmarking against labor laws in various countries and examining global best practices. Over 1,300 participants contributed their opinions and suggestions on the proposed amendments to the labor law through a survey platform.

Additionally, private-sector companies, relevant government entities, labor committees, and various human resources specialists and experts shared their views and advice through workshops and consultative meetings.

The amendments considered the interests of all parties involved in employment contracts and included expanded sections on leaves and contracts. Definitions for the terms "resignation" and "assignment" were added, along with an article outlining resignation procedures and modifying grievance procedures for workers. Penalties were introduced for engaging in worker recruitment activities without a license from the ministry.

The new amendments also stipulate that employers must provide a training and qualification policy to enhance workers' skills and improve their proficiency. Several amendments were also made to the section on maritime work.

The new amendments will come into effect 180 days after their publication in the Official Gazette. The ministry said more details of the amendments are available at the ministry's official website.
Emirates Global Aluminium, the largest industrial company in the UAE outside oil and gas, welcomed for summer training over 25 UAE National high school and university students considering careers in industry.

EGAs summer training programme has been running for more than two decades. It gives students first-hand experience of working in industry, and is particularly focused on students of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

More than 500 young UAE Nationals have participated in EGAs summer training programme since 2001, with many going on to pursue careers in EGA or other UAE industrial companies.

Great opportunity

Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: EGAs summer training programme is a great opportunity for young UAE Nationals to acquire first-hand experience of working in industry, and we know it inspires youth to pursue careers vital to the nations Operation 300bn industrial growth strategy. I welcome this years summer trainees to EGA and encourage each of them to make the most of this experience. I hope many will become the UAE industrial talent of the future.

EGA is a significant employer for science, technology, engineering and mathematics professionals, employing around 1,500 people in these fields including over 500 UAE Nationals.

Some 1,200 UAE Nationals currently work at EGA. Over 700 of EGAs UAE National employees are under 35 years old. Last year, EGA recruited around 120 Emiratis, including 37 women.

In-focus Emiratisation

EGA is accelerating in-focus Emiratisation, targeting that the number of UAE Nationals rises as a proportion of the in-focus workforce by two per cent every year to reach 48% by 2026. This means EGA expects to hire up to 500 UAE Nationals by the end of 2026, including replacements for staff turnover and company growth.

EGAs outreach programmes, which include Engineer the Future, EGAs Ambassador Programme, and an Al Robot competition for university engineering students, aim to grow the future national industrial workforce of the UAE

Last month, EGA revealed that its Engineer the Future programme reached more than 7,300 students from 29 schools in the 2023-2024 academic year, and over 30,000 since the initiative was launched in 2017.--TradeArabia News Service
Qatar Gas Transportation Company (Nakilat) and its Group subsidiaries have delivered solid results for the first half of the year with a net profit of QAR829 million ($221 million) up 7% when compared to QAR775 million ($206 million) last year.

Announcing its results for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024, Nakilat said this robust financial performance highlights Nakilat's resilience and its strategic capabilities in dealing with the dynamic economic landscape. Its incurred total expenses fell 4% to QAR1.46 billion.

In 2024, Nakilat achieved significant milestones in its fleet expansion project. The company signed contracts to build six advanced gas carriers, including two LNG carriers and four modern LPG/Ammonia carriers.

It also entered into long-term contracts with QatarEnergy to charter and operate nine QC-Max LNG carriers, each with a capacity of 271,000 cu m in addition to 25 conventional LNG carriers, each with a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters.

These new vessels will be constructed and delivered according to the scheduled timeline over the coming years.

This initiative reflects Nakilats commitment to modernization and innovation in maritime transport services, aiming to meet the growing demand in the global energy shipping sector.

Upon completion of these vessels, Nakilat said its fleet will reach a total of 114 ships, reinforcing its global leadership in the clean energy transport sector.

Impressed with the results, the board of directors has proposed the distribution of interim cash dividends for the period ending on 30 June, 2024, at a rate of (7%) of the capital, equivalent to 0.07 Qatari Riyal per share, and to approve the amendment of the company's Articles of Association.

The final decision on the cash dividends will be taken at the Extraordinary General Assembly meeting scheduled for August 28.

The interim dividends will be granted to shareholders who own shares at the end of the trading session on the day of the Extraordinary General Assembly meeting that approves this distribution.

On the solid results, CEO Engineer Abdullah Al Sulaiti said: "We remain committed to building a future with sustainable approaches and providing secure and reliable energy transportation solutions as demand for the LNG transportation market is expected to increase worldwide.

"2024 is a milestone year for Nakilats expansion projects, and our latest financial results, with an increase in net profit by 7%, is a testament to the companys two decades of global operational excellence in maritime services," he stated.

"The company has once again been recognized among the Top 100 Listed Companies in the Middle East for 2024. This honor not only acknowledges its exceptional performance but also reinforces its position in the elite league of companies shaping the economic landscape of the region," observed Al Sulaiti.

"The companys commitment to safety and sustainability is underscored by the accolade it received from the British Safety Council, which awarded a five-star rating in the Occupational Health and Safety Audit for the seventh consecutive time, and in the Environmental Sustainability Audit for the second consecutive time," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
The role of agri-innovation to enable food security and help meet climate targets will come under the spotlight at the 14th annual edition of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Agri-Nutrients Conference.

The event will take place for the first time at the JW Marriott Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September 10 to 12, 2024.

As of 2023, roughly 10%, or 783 million, of the world's population have not had access to enough food. With the world's population likely to add nearly another billion people and incomes rising, total food consumption is expected to increase by more than 50% by 2030 and 70% by 2050.

Latest technologies

Held under the theme Agri-Innovation: Powering a Food-Secure & Climate-Smart Planet, the 14th GPCA Agri-Nutrients Conference will discuss the latest technologies and innovations driving the efficient and smart use of agri-nutrients to help support food security globally, while at the same time lower CO2 emissions and mitigate the climate impact of farming.

The GCC is a key producer of agri-nutrients globally, as 5% of the worlds population, or 350 million people, are fed with the support of agri-nutrients made in the region.

The Arabian Gulf produces 34.6 million tonnes of agri-nutrients annually and exports $13.9 billion worth of agri-nutrients, helping to advance food security globally and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. Saudi Arabia accounts for more than half (51.6%) of GCC agri-nutrient production and ranks as the 6th largest exporter of agri-nutrients globally, followed by Oman (7th) and Qatar (10th).

The conference will open on September 11, with an address by Abdulrahman Al-Suwaidi, CEO, Qafco and Chairman, Agri-Nutrients Committee, GPCA, and welcome remarks from Fahad Al-Battar, CEO, Sabic Agri-Nutrients, wholl address the importance of agri-nutrients in todays landscape.

Impact of energy transition

Al-Battar will also take part in an Executive leadership dialogue on the Impact of energy transition on agri-nutrients businesses, alongside Dr Ahmed Said Al-Marhoubi, CEO, OMIFCO, and Hassan Al-Ali, EVP, Phosphate BU, Maaden. Dr Tarifa A Alzaabi, Director General, International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), will deliver a keynote address on Nourishing the planet, powering the future with sustainable agri-nutrients.

On Day 2, Yasser Alabbasi, CEO, GPIC, will present the opening remarks, followed by Nicolas Denis, Partner I Global leader, McKinsey Centre for Agriculture Transformation and Food Security, McKinsey & Company, wholl deliver a keynote address on The current state of food security and nutrition around the world and Dr Edwini Kessie, Director of the Agriculture and Commodities Division, World Trade Organization (WTO), wholl present a keynote address on the Global trade in agri-food products and the role of the WTO in ensuring removal of trade barriers.

The conference will host a workshop on Day 0, September 10, on Operational excellence in the GCC agri-nutrient industry followed by the 3rd GPCA Innovation Competition in the afternoon, where participants will share their presentations showcasing their innovative ideas to advance food security and sustainability.

Premier gathering

Dr Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA, commented: Building on its legacy over the past 13 years as the premier gathering for leaders in the GCC agri-nutrient sector, the conference will foster dialogue and collaboration and provide a platform to discuss some of the most pressing issues impacting on the agri-nutrient sector in the region and globally.

He added: With the dual challenge of rising food demand and meeting our climate targets, the agri-nutrient industry is uniquely positioned to support both the energy transition and decarbonisation, while allowing the world to grow more food by leveraging existing agri-innovations and investing in research and technologies to develop the next-generation of climate-smart solutions. With the 3rd GPCA Innovation Competition focusing on the challenges of food security and sustainability for the first time, this is a unique opportunity for the GCCs community of young graduates to share innovative ideas and contribute to our efforts to advance the industrys objectives.--TradeArabia News Service
Bahri, the national shipping company of Saudi Arabia and a global leader in logistics and shipping, has signed a strategic Letter of Intent (LOI) with Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden) that will see the duo explore collaboration opportunities, thus playing a crucial role in localising maritime sector.

This collaboration, inked in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Investment, aims to establish business integration opportunities between the two national giants.

The largest multi-commodity mining and metals company in the Middle East, Maaden said the duo will help develop resilient supply chains in bid to boost the kingdom's economic diversification objectives.

"We are delighted to work together with Ma'aden, one of the fastest-growing mining companies in the world and the largest multi-commodity mining and metals company in the Middle East, remarked Engineer Ahmed Ali Al Subaey, the CEO of Bahri.

"This collaboration emphasizes Bahris effective and reliable offerings as the national shipping company and further strengthens our position as a global leader within this dynamic industry," he stated.

Bob Wilt, the CEO of Ma'aden, said: "As a global exporter, access to Bahris extensive shipping capabilities ensures that Maaden can support localization of the maritime industry in Saudi Arabia."

"Having worked with the Bahri team across our fertilizer business in recent years, we are confident that this collaboration will open up new growth opportunities across other areas of our business while continuing to support the national economy," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Companies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) prioritise innovation more than everwith 85% of senior executives in the region ranking it among their organisations' top priorities, slightly above the global average.

This strong commitment to innovation reflects the region's ambition to lead the global knowledge economy. A new report released by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) highlights this positive trend while noting opportunities for GCC firms to enhance their innovation readiness.

For its annual innovation study, Innovation Systems Need a Reboot, BCG assessed companies' innovation maturity and surveyed senior innovation executives worldwide, including those in the GCC region.

Innovation systems need reboot

While innovation continues to demonstrate value, the study shows that innovation systems globally need a reboot. Innovation priority remains at an all-time high, with 83% of global companies ranking it as a top-three priority. However, innovation readiness has sharply declined worldwide, from 20% two years ago to 9% last year and just 3% this year globally. This global trend is even more pronounced in the GCC, where firms exhibit even lower innovation readiness than the global average.

The study reveals that while GCC organisations prioritise innovation at a higher level than their global counterparts, they face greater challenges in translating that ambition into readiness. This aligns with global patterns where companies across various regions are struggling to match their innovation priorities with practical readiness, though the gap appears more significant in the GCC.

"We are seeing GCC organisations prioritise innovation, with 85% of executives ranking it highly. However, converting this ambition into readiness remains a challenge," said Faisal Hamady, Managing Director and Partner at BCG. "To close this gap, it is crucial to strengthen the link between innovation and business strategy. Organisations must benchmark processes, align them with strategic goals, and leverage Generative AI while addressing talent constraints and rising capital costs."

Talent challenges in a changing landscape

When GCC business leaders were asked to rank the challenges facing their innovation teams, talent pool constraints emerged as one of the top concerns, alongside the rising cost of capital.

"The GCC is in flux when it comes to attracting top talent," noted Thibault Werle Managing Director and Partner at BCG "While Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh have all ranked highly as cities of choice for global talent, the region is still in the nascent stages of building its talent pool. However, as we've seen with many initiatives in the GCC, if you build it, they will come. The rapid development of innovation ecosystems in these cities will likely accelerate talent attraction in the coming years."

The study also highlighted the need for a broader ecosystem approach to innovation in the GCC, recognising the crucial role of public sector leaders and national strategies in driving innovation alongside corporate efforts.

Generative AI adoption on the rise

The study found that 84% of GCC firms are starting to use Generative AI (GenAI) to drive innovation, reflecting the region's embrace of cutting-edge technologies. However, as with global trends, most organisations are still in the early stages of GenAI adoption.

"GenAI presents a significant opportunity for GCC innovators to boost efficiency and bring fresh perspectives to their organisations," said Hamady. "As the region continues to invest in digital transformation and AI capabilities, we expect to see more widespread and sophisticated use of GenAI in innovation processes."

Six key recommendations for linking innovation with business strategy

Practical foresight in strategy is crucial for GCC companies to succeed. Companies can position themselves at the forefront of their industries by being proactive, anticipating future trends, and aligning innovation efforts with strategic goals. To improve innovation readiness and link innovation with business strategy, BCG recommends focusing on six key elements.:

Executive ownership: Ensure innovation is championed by the CEO or other prominent members of the C-suite.

Clear sense of purpose: Develop a shared story on the purpose of innovation and how it supports the company's strategy.

Focus on competitive advantage: Explicitly focus on opportunities where the organisation has an explicit right to win.

Specified domains: Centre the innovation portfolio on areas that support the overall strategy.

Target portfolio structure: Create a vision for how resources should be deployed across the innovation portfolio.

Quantified objectives: Establish a fact-based perspective on how innovation contributes to financial goals.

Looking ahead

As GCC economies diversify towards knowledge-based sectors, strategic innovation becomes crucial. By addressing current challenges and aligning innovation with business strategy, GCC companies can compete globally and drive regional economic growth.

Leveraging emerging technologies like GenAI while maintaining a clear strategic vision will be instrumental. To close the readiness gap, leaders in the GCC need to sharpen the link between innovation and strategy while leveraging AI.

Additionally, putting in an outsized effort to address talent constraints and funding challenges, especially in light of rising capital costs, will be critical. This approach will improve innovation readiness, enhance talent attraction, and accelerate technological advancement, positioning the GCC as a global innovation hub.--TradeArabia News Service
Dubai Police has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Radio Holland-Middle East to cooperate in scientific and technological fields to advance the force's Smart Boat Project (Haddad).

The MoU was signed by Major General Dr Saleh Abdulla Murad, Director of the General Department of Human Resources for Dubai Police, and Patrick Campagnoli, Business Director for Southern Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Radio Holland Middle East, in the presence of several officials from both sides, a WAM report said.

This MoU is part of the efforts to develop smart systems for the Dubai Police Smart Boat Project (Haddad). The project supports police and security operations by increasing security coverage of water areas, enhancing the intelligent transformation of security operations, reducing operational and maintenance costs of security boats, and contributing to shorter response times and improved databases through field surveys.

Enhancing work systems

Major General Dr Murad said the Dubai Police, through its ongoing approach to enhancing work systems by collaborating with various entities, emphasises its pioneering role in effective and constructive communication to exchange expertise, knowledge and practices.

"These efforts aim to improve performance levels, achieve Dubai Police's strategic objectives, and ensure community safety and security," he said.

Campagnoli said: "Through this partnership with Dubai Police, Radio Holland Middle East aims to participate in one of the world's most ambitious security projects and contribute to realising Dubai Police's future vision," he said.--TradeArabia News Service
Adnoc Logistics and Services, a global energy maritime logistics leader, reported a 31 per cent increase in net profit in H1 2024, reaching $401 million, equivalent to $0.05 per share.

The company also reported a 42 per cent increase in revenues to $1,740 million, up from $1,390 million in H1 2023. EBITDA rose by 42 per cent to $591 million, thanks to strong performance across all business segments, maintaining EBITDA margins at 34 per cent.

The Companys second quarter revenue increased by 42 per cent year-on-year (y-o-y) to $899 million (AED3,302 million) with EBITDA growing 40 per cent y-o-y to $306 million (AED1,124 million). Net profit for the second quarter grew 28 per cent y-o-y to $208 million (AED764 million).

This financial growth was driven by the ongoing implementation of Adnoc L&S transformational growth strategy whereby the Company intends to invest of over $5 billion (AED18.4 billion) in value-accretive growth opportunities in energy-related maritime logistics by the end of 2028.

Adnoc L&S has committed over 50 per cent of this strategic investment target one year post its record-breaking IPO, including significant investments against long-term contracted demand.

Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of Adnoc L&S, said: Adnoc L&S has delivered another set of exceptional financial results in the second quarter, maintaining our strong momentum throughout the year and building on the robust growth we achieved in 2023. The sustained execution of our transformational growth strategy is driving our financial performance across all business segments with strong growth in revenues and net profit. To meet the growing demand for low-carbon energy sources in the UAE and beyond, we have continued to expand our market-leading fleet through significant new energy-efficient vessel construction contracts and geographical expansion through our acquisition of Navig8. We will continue to target value-accretive investments to serve an increasing global customer base and deliver long-term value to our shareholders.

SEGMENTAL FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE FOR H1 2024

Revenues from Adnoc L&S Integrated Logistics segment increased to $1,132 million (AED4,157 million), up 55 per cent on H1 2023. This growth was fueled by higher transported volumes and an enhanced contribution from Jack Up Barges (JUBs) owing to an expanded fleet, increased rates, and further-improved utilisation. Additionally, the continued delivery of Integrated Logistics project activities and the growth of the owned fleet all contributed to revenue growth in the period. EBITDA rose by 42 per cent to $329 million (AED1,208 million) in the first half of the year.

Revenues from the Shipping segment increased 27 per cent to $519 million (AED1,906 million) on H1 2023, driven by robust charter rates for Tankers and Dry Bulk, along with additional earnings from the four new Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) during 2023. This growth in Shipping was partially offset by a decrease in earnings from Gas Carriers due to a reduction in spot charter-in activity and lower LNG Carrier time charter equivalent rates compared to H1 2023.

Shipping EBITDA increased 38 per cent to $232 million (AED852 million) from H1 2023, contributing to a 4-percentage point expansion in EBITDA margin to 45 per cent.

Revenues from the Marine Services segment increased 1 per cent to $89 million (AED327 million) compared to H1 2023. This segment generated an EBITDA of $29 million (AED107 million), up 64 per cent, primarily driven by higher volumes in petroleum ports operations and by the marine terminal operations contract with Adnoc Offshore effective from 1 January 2024.

STRATEGIC UPDATE

The acquisition of Navig8 will expand the Companys geographic footprint and its diversified fleet by adding 32 owned modern tankers and a presence in 15 cities across five continents. Navig8s global presence will greatly enhance Adnoc L&S international profile as a global energy maritime logistics company and expand its blue-chip customer base in key markets. The acquisition, announced in Q2 2024 and currently subject to customary regulatory approvals, will be immediately value-accretive and is projected to increase earnings per share by at least 20 per cent for Adnoc L&S shareholders.

The Company awarded South Korean shipyards, Samsung Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean, up to $2.5 billion (AED9.2 billion) in shipbuilding contracts for the construction of 8-10 new Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Carriers. The vessels are expected to be delivered beginning 2028 and will be time chartered to Adnoc Group subsidiaries for a period of 20 years to support the growing export volumes of natural gas as an in-demand and critical, lower-carbon transitional fuel. The new vessels will increase the Companys fleet of LNG Carriers from 14 to at least 22 vessels.

In Q2 2024, AW Shipping, a strategic joint venture between Adnoc L&S and Wanhua Chemical Group, signed shipbuilding contracts with Jiangnan Shipyard in China priced at approximately $1.9 billion (AED7 billion) in aggregate, for the construction of nine Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs), priced at approximately $1.4 billion (AED5.1 billion) and scheduled to be delivered from 2025 to 2027, and two Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs), priced at approximately $250 million (AED918 million) with the option for another two VLACs at the same pricing, scheduled to be delivered from 2026 to 2028. The VLECs will be deployed on 20-year time charter contracts, generating revenue of $4 billion (AED14.7 billion) through 180 years of aggregated contract coverage. The VLACs are not yet contracted and are targeted to serve the emerging ammonia transportation market, which is anticipated to see substantial growth.

TECHNOLOGY AND AI ADOPTION

Adnoc L&S continues to accelerate the application of industry leading Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions to improve operational efficiencies and increase the safety for its people and assets, enabling a 100 per cent HSE culture. In 2023, the Company strengthened its use of the Smart Ship system, an AI-based maritime predictive maintenance solution for planning optimisation and operational efficiency of ocean-going vessels, improving overall fleet performance and asset reliability.

The Company also deployed the AI-based SMARTi system which is running onboard more than 80 vessels to bolster maritime health and safety, by acting as an early warning system in the prevention of harm and injury to seafarers.

These AI systems have played a critical role in the Companys market-leading HSE success including a 30 per cent decrease in the carbon emissions intensity of fleet operations since 2020, and a 71 per cent reduction in the Lost Time Incident Frequency rate between 2018 and 2023. The newbuild LNG Carriers from South Korea will employ cutting-edge technologies to increase fuel efficiencies and carbon intensity reductions in line with Adnoc L&S sustainability goals.

SUSTAINABILITY AND DECARBONISATION

Adnoc L&S serves as a critical custodian of the UAEs maritime legacy and continues to accelerate its sustainability journey in line with Adnoc Groups 2045 Net Zero target, the UAEs 2050 Net Zero strategy, and the International Maritime Organisations 2050 Net Zero target and goal to reduce carbon emissions intensity by 40 per cent by 2030.

The Company continues to make major progress in this journey, including a 24 per cent improvement in energy efficiency across the Companys shipping fleet since 2020; approximately $2 billion (AED7.3 billion) committed to building environmentally efficient vessels; and with 13 vessels running on biofuels since 2020.

The order placed for the new LNG carriers by Adnoc L&S, along with the orders for VLECs and VLACs placed by AW Shipping, represent a major step forward in the Adnoc L&S transformational growth strategy by accelerating the Companys decarbonisation objectives. The VLECs can be powered by ethane or conventional fuels, the VLACs can be powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or conventional fuels. As new energy resources, ethane and ammonia will play critical roles in decarbonising industrial processes around the world.

The LNG vessels will feature cutting-edge sustainability technologies, including a cargo conditioning system designed to reduce LNG cargo evaporation whilst in transit, systems to direct cargo boil-off gasses to the engines that will increase fuel efficiency and decrease fuel consumption, a real-time emissions monitoring system, and pioneering cargo containment systems to reduce methane emissions. --TradeArabia News Service
A consortium of China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) and global technology major Siemens has been awarded a contract by Iraq for the refurbishment of the unit two of the Baiji gas-fired power station.

A major power plant with a 1.6GW capacity, the Baiji facility is set for completion in 2026.

As per the deal, CSCEC will act as the main contractor, and will also finance the work, while Siemens will supply the main equipment such as the turbines, transformers and control centres.

The CSCEC project scope includes provision of auxiliary elements, such as fire protection, pipes and civil works.

According to Iraqi officials, the 1.6GW power station in Salahuddin province was a major supplier of electricity in the country before it was put out of action after being captured by Islamic State in 2014.

Unit two had an output of 1GW and only entered service in 2014.

Iraqs Council of Ministers had put a $1.3 billion rehabilitation scheme in place in 2019, and signed a deal with Siemens and the Egyptian contractor Orascom in September that year.

The work is expected to break ground next year and is due for completion in 2026.- TradeArabia New Service
The lawsuit threat by Elon Musk before to X advertisers has now formally been filed. Musk filed a lawsuit against the World Federation of Advertisers (WFA) and the companies who pulled out of the platform in the past months. It was previously claimed by Musk that what they did was an "illegal boycott, and he is now saying that, this time, "it is war." It is expected that both sides would see each other in court.

In the latest suit, it was revealed to Musk that the said boycotts are an "antitrust action," with the defendants allegedly conspiring against the social media platform.

Elon Musk, X Now Suing Advertisers for 'Illegal Boycott'

A new lawsuit filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas from Elon Musk and the X Corp. comes after its previous threat of going against advertisers responsible for the "illegal boycott" that took place over the past several months. It was revealed here that Musk and X are asking for "compensatory damages" and are banking on the antitrust laws against the defendants.

The main defendant is the WFA, but it also includes huge companies like Uniliver PLC and Uniliver United States, Inc., Mars, Incorporated, CVS Health Corporation, and rsted A/S.

Musk and X are also targeting the WFA's Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) initiative, saying that the organization and these companies are "conspirators" to the boycott.

Read Also: Elon Musk Faces Backlash for Deepfaked Kamala Harris Presidential Ad

'It is War' for Elon Musk, X Versus WFA, Advertisers

The eccentric billionaire also shared his sentiments on X while reposting CEO Linda Yaccarino's open letter to advertisers, saying that after two years of peace, they are now ready for "war." In the lawsuit, Musk and X are demanding a trial by jury, and are ready for a court battle against the WFA and advertisers, with the company not looking to settle.

We tried peace for 2 years, now it is war https://t.co/elgT62uDtF  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 6, 2024

Elon Musk and the X Advertising Boycott

Since Elon Musk stepped in as Twitter's owner and CEO in 2022, it has lost significant companies that are in an advertising partnership with the social media platform.

However, it is not only that, as the short-word social media platform first lost users who opted for alternative social media apps, particularly those that are Elon Musk-free.

It was in 2023 and earlier this year when X faced a massive advertising boycott from renowned companies because of the controversial topics that Musk opened up on the platform. One of the most sensitive subjects that was the reason behind the boycotts was the tech billionaire's antisemitic statements posted on X, leading to companies denouncing this behavior and leaving the platform.

Companies like The Walt Disney Company, Amazon, Microsoft, and more have stopped running ads on X, while others like Coca-Cola, Netflix, and many more have limited their advertising content. All of these led to angering Musk and causing X to lose revenue.

Now, the X owner is taking matters into his own hands and suing the WFA and the other companies responsible for the so-called illegal boycott in an all-out war in court.
Residents of Qatar can now apply for their Bulgaria visas at the Doha centre of VFS Global, a services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide.

VFS Global Visa Application Centre, which was inaugurated on August 5, will accept documents for short-term and long-term visas, as well as requests for the legalisation of Police Clearance Certificates to Bulgaria.

The contract for VFS Global to provide Bulgaria visa services in Qatar was signed by Plamen Delev, Ambassador of Bulgaria in Qatar on July 22, 2024.

Delev said: Globalisation demands efficient visa services. The strategic outsourcing of the Bulgaria Visas and Police Clearance Certificates legalisation with VFS Global in Qatar streamlines the process, leveraging their expertise for smoother travel and business opportunities.

This commitment to innovation ensures that our Embassy sets higher levels of exceptional visa services.

Marita Bachhav, Regional Head, VFS Global, said: We are delighted to be expanding our partnership with the Bulgarian government to offer convenient and efficient visa application services to residents in Qatar.

The opening of our new Visa Application Centre in Doha reflects our commitment to providing a seamless and hassle-free experience for travellers seeking Bulgarian visas.

VFS Global said it has been a trusted partner for the Government of Bulgaria since 2008, and currently operates a network of 92 Bulgaria Visa Application Centres in 16 countries worldwide.

Applicants can also choose from a range of optional services offered by VFS Global for an enhanced customer journey, including SMS updates at every stage of the application process and courier return service for delivery of processed passports to the applicants doorstep.

VFS Globals Premium Lounge will also be available to Bulgaria visa applicants, which includes end-to-end professional guidance, a faster application and biometric submission process, and complimentary SMS and courier return services, all in a plush ambience.  TradeArabia News Service
Turkish Airlines, the airline that flies to more countries than any other, has revealed the details of its brand-new state-of-the-art Business Class suite at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 in Hampshire, UK.

The new Crystal Business Class suite marks a new era for luxury air travel for business passengers and is the first from Turkish Airlines to feature an adjustable suite door and privacy panel for enhanced in-flight privacy.

New seats feature a generous 23-inch seat width boasting increased footwell space with direct aisle access for all guests with every window suite possessing full visibility. In line with companys Flow brand identity, new suites feature lighter and warmer colors, marble-style table and rose gold finishes.

Very best amenities

The suite continues to provide the very best amenities Turkish Airlines is known for to elevate guest experience, including adjustable ambient and reading lights, universal and Type C power outlets, wireless charger, noise cancelling audio jack, adjustable mirror, closed stowage ergonomic seat cushion and a 22-inch IFE screen.

The airlines new seats have been developed by its subsidiary, TCI Aircraft Interiors, to create a bespoke product unique to the airline and features elements with plush leathers and fabrics all sourced from Turkiye to emphasise flag carriers roots.

On the new Business class offerings of the company, Turkish Airlines Chairman of The Board and Executive Committee Prof. Ahmet Bolat stated: Our new Crystal Business Class suite will add a new chapter for our long-haul luxury travel and will carry the airline into the future with a new level of comfort and privacy across our extensive global network. The specially created design will complement our award-winning in-flight dining options for us to keep providing an unparalleled experience above the clouds for our guests.

The new seats, set to be featured on the carriers transcontinental flights, will be gradually installed on airlines Airbus A350s on order, as well as planned to be retrofitted on its fleet of Boeing 777 aircraft.--TradeArabia News Service
ECONOMIST Marla Dukharan has called for an independent and objective assessment of all countries worldwide to determine which ones are truly tax havens.

Dukharan stated that this approach would help combat the stigma often associated with the Caribbean region.
THE theme for this years World Sight Day: Love your eyes, kids, is a call to action, says co-founder of the Trinidad Eye Hospital (TEH) and Hummingbird Medal Gold recipient, Dr Ronnie Bhola.

One of the main problems affecting our young population that is causing concern among health care professionals like Bhola is myopia  a condition in which people can see close objects clearly but objects farther away appear blurred.
Microsoft argued that Delta Air Lines' outdated technology is likely responsible for its slowed recovery as opposed to its damaging claims against the tech giant and CrowdStrike.

Delta Air Lines previously stated that the global IT outage cost the airline an estimated loss of $500 million and has threatened to sue Microsoft and CrowdStrike.

Microsoft Says Delta's Statement is 'Misleading'

In a letter penned by Microsoft's lawyer, the company described Delta's statements as "incomplete, false, misleading, and damaging to Microsoft and its reputation." CrowdStrike also shared the same sentiment with the airline.

"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," said Attorney Mark Cheffo in a response to Delta's lawyer.

Delta argued that it has invested in improving its technological capabilities since 2016. The company claimed to have been spending billions of dollars in IT operating costs.

Microsoft, CrowdStrike Offered Help to Delta

Microsoft said that the company offered to provide help to Delta from July 19 until July 23. According to the tech giant, the airline declined the help despite having their senior executives reach out to them.

Likewise, CrowdStrike shared a similar incident. CEO George Kurtz revealed that he has personally contacted Delta CEO Ed Bastian but received no response.

Microsoft alleged that Delta's crew-tracking and scheduling system, which was said to be damaged, does not run using Microsoft Windows or Azure. The tech giant claimed that Delta might have refused help from Microsoft due to using other technology providers.

Delta's Bastian dismissed the companies' claims of offering help. "They haven't offered anything-free consulting advice to help us," he said in an interview last week on CNBC.

The airline is currently conducting an intensive analysis of the event while navigating concerns about the total damage caused by the outage.
TRINIDAD Petroleum Holdings Limited (TPHL) has put the matter of Patriotic Energy Services Company Limited submitting allegedly fraudulent documents in its bid to acquire the former Petrotrin refinery in the hands of its legal team.

The claim, first made by Energy Minister Stuart Young during the budget debate last Friday, was again denied yesterday by Oilfields Workers Trade Union (OWTU) president Ancel Roget. TPHL stated in a media release yesterday that it had received a document submitted by Patriotic Energies in its non-binding offer for the refinery, which specifically identified as evidence a wire transfer of US$1.5 billion into a local bank, and which document identified Patriotic Energies as the beneficiary.
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.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection this week released information on separate deadly incidents that occurred near Lukeville.

In February, a pregnant woman lost her newborn after being among a dozen migrants apprehended by border patrol agents, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection in a news release on Tuesday.

The woman from the African country of Angola tried to communicate with authorities who were unable to understand her, initially believing that she was speaking French. About an hour later, when the group was transferred to the Ajo station, a nurse practitioner conducting a routine booking exam for apprehended migrants noted the woman, who complained of abdominal pains and cramps, was about 8 months pregnant.

About two hours after that the woman arrived by ambulance at a hospital in Goodyear and underwent an emergency cesarean section after doctors found a defect in the fetus heartbeat, the release said.

After birth the newborns heart rate continued to decrease and later died.

An investigation continues.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident in March a man died after jumping from a moving car.

On the evening of March 6, a Border Patrol agent monitoring a remote video surveillance system, reported possible human smuggling at a gas station in Lukeville. The operator reported seeing a man and woman get into a Nissan Altima and another agent then saw the vehicle headed north on State Route 85, an agency release said.

Eventually two agents were following the car when a man and woman jumped out of the vehicle as it traveled about 45 mph.

The woman suffered minors injures. The man however, was bleeding from his face, struggling to breathe and was unconscious, the release said. He died later at a Phoenix hospital, the release said.

Two people who stayed in the Altima were arrested.

An investigation is ongoing.
Project 2025, a contentious policy blueprint for the next Republican presidency, seeks to dramatically concentrate power in the White House while fundamentally changing how the federal government operates on nearly every front.

And when it comes to overhauling public education, the sweeping right-wing manifesto borrows heavily from Arizonas playbook.

The roughly 900-page Mandate for Leadership  crafted by think tank the Heritage Foundation and other conservative heavyweights  lays out an aggressive roadmap for dismantling the federal Department of Education, rethinking funding for low-income students and those with disabilities, and broadly diverting public school dollars to less-regulated alternatives like private schools and homeschooling.

Promoting universal school choice as a goal all conservatives and conservative Presidents must pursue, it argues that every parent should have the option to direct his or her childs share of education funding through an education savings account (ESA), funded overwhelmingly by state and local taxpayers.

Thats precisely how school vouchers work in Arizona, a longtime darling of the school choice movement and the first in the nation to offer universal voucher eligibility. Heritage education policy expert Lindsey Burke, who authored Project 2025s education section, references Arizona as a school choice pioneer almost immediately.

Burke also advocates a change to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act that would partially redirect IDEA funding to families instead of schools, citing the way in which parents use education savings accounts in states such as Arizona and Florida. And she promotes a funding model in which donors receive tax credits in exchange for contributions to nonprofits that provide private school scholarships, much like Arizonas school tuition organizations, or STOs.

Burke and others from the Heritage Foundation, which declined an interview with AZCIR, use conservative buzzwords like freedom and choice to sell their vision of a new educational landscape that empowers parents to select a set of education options that meet their childs unique needs. But experts in education policy and constitutional law suspect a much different endgame: setting public schools up to fail by stripping their funding while concentrating higher-need, harder-to-educate kids there.

The implications for students and public schools and the communities that rely on them are disastrous, said Jessica Levin, litigation director at the Education Law Center, a nonprofit that advocates for public education. And Arizona, unfortunately, is Exhibit A.

Arizonas initial foray into school choice came in 1994, when the state passed a far-reaching education-reform package that authorized charter schools to operate here. Three years later, the state became the first in the U.S. to establish nonprofit school tuition organizations to fund private school scholarships, offering dollar-for-dollar tax credits to donors.

By 2006, the Legislature had created an explicit school voucher option limited to students with disabilities and those in foster care. The Arizona Supreme Court later deemed that program unconstitutional, because it directly funded private, often religious schools.

Policymakers soon changed course, launching the nations first Empowerment Scholarship Account program in 2011. ESAs, initially available to students with disabilities, similarly diverted state money to public school alternatives, but they circumvented the courts decision by giving the cash to parents to spend. Republican leaders first expanded program eligibility incrementally, then dramatically.

Today, Arizona has the largest share of charter school students in the country. Its STOs rake in hundreds of millions annually, funneling would-be tax revenue to private schools. And its now-universal voucher program enrolls nearly 75,000 students, to the tune of more than $700 million.

The state also has some of the worst-funded public schools in the U.S., ranking 49th on the U.S. Census Bureaus most recent Annual Survey of School System Finances.

Even before the state universalized voucher eligibility, Columbia University researchers who analyzed education budgets from 2008 to 2019 found Arizona was one of the few states where public school spending declined even as enrollment increased. Per-pupil public school spending dropped by 5.7% during that period, according to the analysis, while spending on voucher and tax-credit programs climbed by 270%.

(Arizona) has consistently refused to create quality public schools, and therefore forced people  and I think thats the key, forced people  to make other choices, said University of South Carolina Professor Derek Black, who specializes in the intersection of constitutional law and public education.

In other words, the harder you make it for public schools to succeed, the easier it is to sell the alternatives. And there are plenty of well-financed conservative groups working to do just that.

Former U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos American Federation for Children, the Koch brothers Americans for Prosperity and the American Legislative Exchange Council have all doggedly pushed for expansions in vouchers and other school choice programs throughout the country in recent years, using Arizona as a proving ground.

Libertarian think tank the Goldwater Institute, the primary architect of Arizonas ESA program, has repeatedly said it wont stop until parents in every state in the nation are empowered to decide what educational path truly meets their childrens needs, though it declined to discuss the implications of Project 2025s voucher proposal with AZCIR.

Framing education as a consumer product rather than a public good, these groups argue families should have the ability to escape subpar, out-of-touch public schools in favor of private or self-directed options that better serve their kids and more closely reflect their values  all on the taxpayers dime.

That argument has gained traction amid some families frustrations over how public schools navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ongoing culture wars over issues of race, gender and sexuality. (Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts writes in Project 2025s forward that the noxious tenets of critical race theory and gender ideology  poison our children.) But in most cases, its Republican lawmakers, not families, who have pushed hardest to make it easier for public dollars to go toward private alternatives.

Every time major voucher expansions have been put to the public, including in Arizona, voters have rejected them.

Project 2025 paints a rosy picture of an educational marketplace where parents hold the ultimate power to customize their childs learning experience. As Roberts puts it in his introduction, Schools serve parents, not the other way around.

Indeed, parents of some public school students  from those with disabilities who needed special instruction, to those from lower-income families who felt trapped at failing or unsafe schools  have successfully used vouchers to find and afford placements better tailored to their childrens learning styles.

A family may have three children, two of whom thrive at their neighborhood public school, but one struggles, and the parents choose to get ESA funds to send that child to a school that meets his needs, Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne said. I believe school choice options should be available to parents throughout the country as decided on a state-by-state basis.

At the end of the day, though, only public schools must be open to all. Private schools can generally pick which students to accept or reject, meaning they ultimately do the choosing, not families.

In Arizona, that has left some parents whove pursued vouchers for children with disabilities unable to find spots for them. Those who do secure private school placements give up certain anti-discrimination and disability protections present at public schools.

These considerations apply to the minority of Arizona ESA recipients whove left district or charter schools in favor of private schools since the state universalized eligibility. Over the past two school years, more than 60% of ESAs went to students who werent previously enrolled in public school, state data shows, indicating families are likely using vouchers to subsidize expenses they had formerly covered.

Rather than saving the state money, as school choice advocates claimed ESAs would, both of these shifts have created budgetary strain. School districts, which rely on consistent enrollment for state funding, have seen cash disappear alongside students, even as fixed costs have remained steady. The state, meanwhile, has taken on hundreds of millions in new spending for kids who were already attending private school, a trend that contributed to a $1 billion-plus budget deficit this year.

Under Arizonas existing laws, its almost impossible to see how students who use vouchers for private schools or homeschooling are performing, since they generate very little data. They dont have to participate in state or national assessments, for instance, and their grades, graduation rates and postsecondary attainment go unreported.

Levin cited a lack of accountability metrics as a key concern if vouchers go national, particularly given the associated price tag. In 2021, National Education Policy Center researchers estimated U.S. education spending would increase by anywhere from $67 billion to $203 billion a year to accommodate universal vouchers, depending on program parameters and enrollment.

Most troubling to experts interviewed by AZCIR, though, were the possible impacts of Project 2025s school choice proposals on student equity.

When the quality and safety of public schools decline, families with the money and resources to leave will often do so. Even with vouchers in play, lower-income families may not be able to fully afford private school tuition, not to mention related costs like transportation and technology.

Further concentrating high-performing, well-resourced students at some schools and lower-performing, lower-income students at others would exacerbate segregation and create a fragmented educational landscape, according to Black, the constitutional law expert. Project 2025s recommendation to phase out Title I funding, designed to close achievement gaps at poorer schools, would only add to the divide.

Such a fractured system would be at odds with the American tradition of using public schools to bring together children of all backgrounds and produce an informed citizenry, Black said.
Jack Thorp, District 27 District Attorney, who serves Adair, Cherokee, Sequoyah, and Wagoner Counties, has been elected President of the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council and Oklahoma District Attorneys Association for fiscal year 2024-25.

This is an incredible honor, said Thorp. This organization has done great work for the people of Oklahoma. I hope to continue that work and build on what has been done by previous leadership.

Thorp has dedicated his career to helping others. He grew up in Catoosa and served in the U.S. Navy during Operations Just Cause, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm. After his honorable discharge, Thorp attended University of the Ozarks, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1996. He then studied law at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville School of Law, receiving his Juris Doctorate in 1999.

Since that time, Thorp has served as a criminal prosecutor. He was a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for six years in the Fifth District of Arkansas before returning to Oklahoma in 2005, where he served as Assistant District Attorney in Tulsa County and First Assistant District Attorney in District 27 until being appointed as District 27 District Attorney in 2017. Thorp has been selected twice as Oklahomas District Attorney of the Year (David L. Moss Award 2020 and 2023).

Being able to serve the people of District 27 every day is amazing, added Thorp. Now, as president of DAC and ODAA, I will be able to do that on a larger scale, working with District Attorneys from across the state to ensure that Oklahoma has a strong criminal justice system that strives for justice for crime victims and holds criminals accountable for their actions.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City (AmCham Vietnam HCMC) has announced its new executive director, Travis Mitchell, an official with intensive experience in international trade after numerous years working in Southeast Asia.

Mitchell, who has 11 years of experience in the region supporting U.S. businesses, has taken on the role of Executive Director at AmCham Vietnam HCMC since August 6, according to a press release from the agency's board of governors on Monday.

This position has been appointed after nearly a year and half of vacancy.

Before his appointment to the new post, Mitchell served as the executive director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, where he connected the local government with the private sector, created opportunities for growth and investment, and cultivated ties between the members of the American and Cambodian business communities.

He also served as an advisor to Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, secretary general of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), of which Vietnam is a member. He has a background in research, advocacy, public health, and community service.

With experience in supporting the U.S. business community in the Southeast Asian market, Mitchell was named one of the Top 50 International Voices in Cambodia in 2024 by the Cambodia Leadership Review, a new print and digital publication in the kingdom.

My previous role at AmCham Cambodia and my experience with the AmChams of Asia Pacific allow me to enter this position with unique insight on running a chamber and ensure that we capitalize on the incredible opportunity that we have here in Vietnam, Mitchell commented on his new assignment.

He is looking forward to working closely with the American business community, the Vietnamese government, the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, AmCham Hanoi, and other partners.

AmCham Vietnam HCMC chairperson Ramachandran A.S. expressed his pleasure to announce Mitchells appointment as executive director, underscoring that his perspective, professional background, and expertise in the U.S.-Vietnam trade and investment will enable him to deliver significant value for the chambers members.

AmCham Vietnam HCMC was founded in 1994 with its mission to promote trade and investment relations between the U.S. and Vietnam, serving as the voice of American businesses in Vietnam.

The agencys vision is to become the most dynamic, strategic, and influential business association in Vietnam, promoting innovation and sustainable growth, while helping its members succeed.

It enables professional networking, business intelligence, and advocacy through events and sectoral committees such as capital markets and financial services, digital economy and technology, environmental, social, and governance (ESG), food and beverages, healthcare, and manufacturing.

According to Vietnams Ministry of Industry and Trade, the U.S. has continued to be Vietnams largest export market, with turnover amounting to US$66.09 billion in the first seven months of this year, up 24.4 percent year on year and accounting for 29 percent of the countrys total export earnings.

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Da Nang City in central Vietnam has achieved its inbound tourist target for the whole year of 2024, receiving more than 2.5 million international visitors in the year to July, according to data released by the municipal Statistics Office.

Lodging facilities in this coastal city served an estimated 6.6 million tourists in the seven months, marking a 33-percent rise over the same period last year.

The number of foreign tourists grew over 34 percent year on year at 2.5 million, while that of domestic visitors expanded nearly 32 percent at 4.2 million.

The number of foreign tourists visiting Da Nang this year is expected to reach the pre-pandemic level of 3.5 million, according to Tran Van Vu, head of the Statistics Office.

South Korean visitors accounted for over 42 percent of total inbound tourists to Da Nang, followed by travelers from China, Thailand, the U.S., and India, Vu added.

Visitors explore the Cham Sculpture Museum in Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre

The Da Nang Department of Tourism elaborated that the coastal city has actively promoted local tourism through various events, such as receiving fam-trip delegations and joining travel fairs.

The citys tourism authority also facilitated the launch of new direct air services linking Da Nang with destinations in China, Indonesia, India, Japan, and Australia.

Mai Thi Thanh Hai, deputy director of the Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that aside from hosting a wide range of tourism events and festivals, the city has sought to diversify its tourism products and markets from such countries as India, Indonesia, and those in the Middle East.

The coastal Vietnamese city also promoted cruise, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), and wedding tourism, Hai said.

Last year, Indonesian tourist arrivals in Da Nang exceeded 26,000, making up about 25 percent of all Indonesian visits to Vietnam.

Da Nang accounted for 60 percent of all Indian tourist visits to Vietnam.

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Officials from Quang Tri Province in central Vietnam and Mukdahan Province in Thailand have signed a cooperation deal for the 2025-30 period in different fields such as trade, investment, tourism, communications, and human resource training and development.

The signing took place during their talks held in the Vietnamese province on Monday, with the participation of the Quang Tri administration and a Thai delegation led by Mukdahans Governor Vorayan Bunarat.

Vo Van Hung, chairman of the Quang Tri Peoples Committee, underlined the importance of the working session, which was expected to open up opportunities for both sides.

Hung updated the Thai delegation on Quang Tris socioeconomic landscape, pointing out key projects currently under construction, including a local airport, the Cam Lo - Lao Bao Expressway, and a conveyor belt over six kilometers long designed to transport coal from Laos.

He believed that there is much room for both provinces to strengthen their cooperation in multiple fields, citing an example of Thai products being favored by lots of Quang Tri residents, but the locals have limited access to authentic Thai items in the area.

The governor of Mukdahan elaborated that the two provinces have maintained their good partnership over the past 19 years, revealing that Mukdahan is home to a large Thai community of Vietnamese origin with 6,000 people.

The signing of the cooperation deal would boost bilateral relations between Vietnam and Thailand, as well as the two provinces, the Thai governor added.

Yatiwatra Mantrivat, the chief of the customs authority in Mukdahan, discussed the prospects for cooperation between Quang Tri and Mukdahan.

He noted that Vietnams exports to Mukdahan have increased nearly 11 percent year on year since the beginning of 2024.

The Mukdahan customs authority has pledged to create favorable conditions for Vietnamese goods to enter the Thai locale.

Ho Van Hoan, deputy director of the Quang Tri Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, suggested that both sides should promote exchanges in traditional arts and sports.

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The Ministry of Finance and the State Securities Commission (SSC) of Vietnam jointly held an investment promotion conference entitled My Vietnam - Your Investment Destination in Singapore on Tuesday.

Addressing the event, Vietnamese Minister of Finance Ho Duc Phoc highlighted the importance of the Vietnam - Singapore bilateral ties over the past five decades, including more than 10 years of strategic partnership.

Both sides have seen their cooperation in economy, trade, and investment increasingly advance over the years.

The finance minister believed that Vietnam and Singapore have much potential for achieving further development, particularly in the financial market, capital market, and securities market.

Therefore, the finance ministry, in collaboration with partners, organized this conference to provide more investment opportunities and create a substantial dialogue channel to help businesses and investors better understand the policies, orientations, and potentialities of the Vietnamese economy in general and the financial market in particular.

Over its more than 24 years of operation, the Vietnamese stock market has demonstrated its attractiveness through the number of listed securities, high liquidity, and strong participation from both domestic and international investors.

"Vietnam will continue its efforts to ensure transparency, safety, efficiency, comprehensiveness, and sustainability in its stock market, while protecting the rights and legitimate interests of all stakeholders," the minister added.

The finance ministry has pledged to support partners, businesses, and investors by providing favorable opportunities for investment and cooperation, aiming for mutually beneficial outcomes.

Leaders of the Ministry of Finance and the State Securities Commission of Vietnam have called on foreign investors to invest in the Vietnamese stock market. Photo: State Securities Commission of Vietnam

At the event, the SSC provided Singaporean investors with an overview of Vietnams stock market, its prospects, market development goals, and upcoming policies.

Representatives from Vietnamese securities companies, fund management firms, and major listed companies shared insights into the growth potential of the Vietnamese stock market, the preparations by securities companies, and opportunities for cooperation.

Speaking at the event, Vu Thi Chan Phuong, chairwoman of the SSC, emphasized that upgrading the Vietnamese stock market from a frontier market to an emerging market is one of the government's major goals.

As of July this year, over 1,600 securities and fund certificates were listed and registered for trading on the Vietnamese stock market, with a market capitalization of US$278 billion, equivalent to 65 percent of the countrys 2023 GDP.

The number of investors has increased significantly, with eight million securities accounts, equivalent to more than 10 percent of the adult population.

In the ASEAN region, the Vietnamese stock market remains dynamic, with liquidity reaching some $1 billion per day, ranking first or second in the region in terms of liquidity.

Moreover, the liquidity of the Vietnamese and Singaporean stock markets is equivalent.

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Vietnams tuna exports to South Korea have grown at a triple-digit rate over the past three months, with Junes export value alone reaching nearly US$6 million, almost six times higher than the same period in 2023, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP).

According to VASEP, South Korea has developed a strong preference for processed and canned Vietnamese tuna.

In the first half of this year, tuna exports to South Korea topped $14 million, marking a 144-percent increase compared to the same period last year.

South Korea has thus become one of the top ten markets importing the most tuna from Vietnam, with about 15 Vietnamese enterprises currently supplying this market.

With a population exceeding 51 million, South Korea presents a significant opportunity for Vietnamese tuna exporters, showing a strong growth trend since last year.

Nguyen Ha, a tuna market expert at VASEP, explained to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Tuesday that global economic challenges and recession have led South Koreans to tighten their consumption.

"Consequently, there has been a rise in demand for affordable seafood products like canned tuna," Ha said.

"Vietnamese tuna, being competitively priced, has seen increased purchases from South Korea since last year."

Currently, processed and canned tuna constitutes 99 percent of Vietnams total export turnover to South Korea.

The primary import is frozen steamed skipjack tuna.

A representative from a seafood business in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam also noted that the shift in South Korean seafood consumption toward more affordable options aligns with broader trends of reduced consumer spending.

This shift presents an opportunity for Vietnamese seafood to increase exports of competitively priced products, the representative said.

As freight rates to the U.S. and Europe continue to rise, markets with closer geographical proximity and stable consumption demand have become more attractive, leading Vietnamese businesses to focus on these regions.

However, VASEP forecasts that maintaining the current growth rate for tuna exports may be challenging due to a hike in the domestic supply of raw skipjack tuna, attributed to current regulations on the minimum size of skipjack tuna allowed for exploitation.

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Binh Tan District in Ho Chi Minh City will open seven schools in the upcoming 2024-25 academic year, which is slated for September 5.

These public schools include a kindergarten, five elementary schools, and a middle school, with a combined 204 classrooms equipped with modern educational equipment.

The new rooms raise the total number of public classrooms in the district to 2,131.

The opening of these new schools aims to accommodate the growing number of students and address the shortage of educational facilities in the southern metropolis.

The total number of children in the district expected to attend school in the upcoming academic year is estimated at 124,237, an increase of 3,455 students compared to last year.

With the addition of the new schools, the number of students in each elementary school class will be reduced to 37.

Binh Tri Dong B Middle School in Binh Tri Dong B Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City features 36 classrooms with a total capital of VND276 billion (US$11 million). The school is scheduled to welcome some 1,620 students. Photo: Phuong Nhi / Tuoi Tre

In 2025, Binh Tan District plans to build 16 more educational facilities.

The district will open two schools on the cleared land of Binh Hung Hoa Cemetery.

An official from the Binh Tan Peoples Committee stated that over 6,870 children will attend preschool, around 10,200 will start first grade, and approximately 10,530 students will enter middle school this year.

The district currently faces a shortage of over 1,220 classrooms for elementary and middle school students.

To address this, the district has been allocated over VND10.2 trillion ($405 million) to implement 101 projects, including 42 educational projects, during the 2024-25 period.

The Binh Tan administration has proposed that the municipal Peoples Committee invest in projects to build 23 schools with a total of 709 classrooms between 2026 and 2030.

Nguyen Cong Tru Elementary School in Binh Tri Dong A Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City cost over VND 109 billion (US$ 4.3 million). "The new school will make it easier for children to attend, as they wont have to travel long distances," said Nguyen Van Thai, a 49-year-old resident. Photo: Supplied

Nguyen Cong Tru Elementary School has a floor area of over 6,910 square meters, featuring four floors. Photo: Phuong Nhi / Tuoi Tre

Huynh Thuc Khang Elementary School in Binh Hung Hoa Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City boasts four floors with 30 classrooms. The school will admit 1,050 students this academic year. Photo: Phuong Nhi / Tuoi Tre

Dinh Cong Trang Elementary School in An Lac Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City features 28 classrooms and is expected to welcome 980 students. Photo: Cam Nuong / Tuoi Tre

Hoang Van Thu Elementary School in Binh Hung Hoa Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City has 30 classrooms, with a total capital of over VND172 billion ($6.8 million). Photo: Phuong Nhi / Tuoi Tre

Many parents take their children to visit Dinh Cong Trang Elementary School in An Lac Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City, August 5, 2024. Photo: Cam Nuong / Tuoi Tre

Nguyet Que Kindergarten in Binh Hung Hoa A Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City features 20 classrooms and will accommodate 500 children from the ward and neighboring areas. Photo: Supplied

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Read what is in the news in Vietnam today:

Politics

-- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh held a reception for Japanese Minister of Defense Minoru Kihara in Hanoi on Tuesday.

-- A meeting of key leaders was held in Hanoi on Tuesday to evaluate July performance and outline major tasks for August, under the chair of Vietnams Party General Secretary and State President To Lam.

Society

-- A cargo ship collided with a ferry on a branch of the Tien River in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang, causing a mini truck and several people to fall into the river and injuring one man on Tuesday.

-- A recent viral video on social media shows people angrily intervening to protect a young woman performing a statue act on Hai Ba Trung Walking Street in Hue City, Thua Thien-Hue Province, central Vietnam, after she was subject to rude comments from a man.

-- Chairman of the Hanoi Peoples Committee, Tran Sy Thanh, requested during an inspection on Tuesday that the Nhon-Hanoi metro project, the second metro line in the capital city, commence commercial operation on Thursday instead of the proposed Friday.

-- Muong Thanh Group, a well-known Vietnamese contractor, has dismantled 86 apartments in a high-rise building in Da Nang City that failed to conform to approved designs, while petitioning to retain 78 apartments in other illegally built sections of the same project, according to the municipal Department of Construction.

-- Police in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam, announced on Tuesday they have recently collaborated with relevant agencies to dismantle a transnational drug trafficking operation, arresting four suspects and seizing 34 kg of crystal meth.

-- The Peoples Court of Quang Nam Province in central Vietnam on Tuesday sentenced a 37-year-old local man to death for purchasing and intending to sell five bricks of drugs from Nghe An Province.

-- Vietnams state-run lottery company Vietlott announced that the American-style Mega 6/55 jackpot draw held on Tuesday resulted in a customer winning over VND228.6 billion (US$9.1 million).

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In Ho Chi Minh City, it is common for people to arrive late at wedding parties, which inconveniences the host family, including the bride and groom, and leaves punctual guests regretting their timeliness.

Nguyen Hoang, 32, from neighboring Long An Province, narrated a story about attending a relative's wedding party in the city.

Although his relative had the main wedding in Long An, he organized another party in Ho Chi Minh City for his colleagues and friends.

"After taking a 17-seater bus from Long An to the city, my group arrived at my house at 3:00 pm. We didn't eat at home since the party was scheduled for 7:00 pm at a restaurant," Hoang recounted.

Hoang and his group arrived at the restaurant at 6:45 pm, just as the bride and groom began receiving early or on-time guests.

However, more guests trickled in slowly, and around 7:00 pm, many tables were still empty.

Hoang's group began to feel hungry, as they would have normally eaten by then if they were still at home in Long An.

Despite being advised to wait a bit longer, the wait stretched to over an hour. Even at 8:00 pm, there still were not enough guests for the party to start.

Tip: Have a light meal before parties

Thao, 27, from Binh Thanh District, advises guests to eat something light before heading to a wedding party.

"When I first started working in the city, I was always punctual for wedding parties," Thao shared.

"I remember the first time I attended a city wedding. I left work an hour early to prepare and arrived at the restaurant on time, only to wait a long time for the party to begin.

"It was frustrating, but I realized I could only blame myself for being on time."

This combined photo shows an empty path leading to the wedding party venue at a restaurant in Vietnam (L) and guests at the party waiting for late arrivals. Photo: Quan Nam / Tuoi Tre

Le Danh, a 31-year-old man, found himself in the same predicament as Thao.

Most hosts of evening wedding parties struggle with guests arriving late, partly because many people finish work and leave their offices around 5:30 pm or 6:00 pm, Danh noted.

"It usually takes about an hour to get home, shower, and change clothes," he explained.

"Plus, traffic jams during rush hour in Ho Chi Minh City can make you late even if you don't go home first."

Danh mentioned that he attends weddings mainly to maintain and foster relationships with the invitees or the bride and groom, not for the food and drinks.

"So, before going to a wedding party, I eat something to avoid being hungry in case I have to wait a long time," he said with a smile.

Punctuality means respect for others

Latecomers at wedding ceremonies not only force on-time guests to wait but also make the host family, bride, and groom uncomfortable as they have to delay the start of the party, Danh said.

At the wedding of Hoangs relative, the bride and groom were anxious as they waited for their guests to arrive, with the invitation time long past and only a few attendees present.

"Some guests even double-checked their invitation cards, wondering if the time was incorrect," Hoang recalled.

At another wedding, the parents of the bride and groom urged the couple to go on stage to start the ceremony, but they lingered, waiting for a close group of friends who had promised to arrive early to perform a dance at the beginning of the event.

"In the end, you should be on time for any appointment, including wedding parties, as punctuality demonstrates respect for others," Danh advised.

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Former Seven game show host Andrew OKeefe was re-arrested yesterday just hours after he appeared in Downing Centre Local Court.

He was charged on Wednesday afternoon with breaching his bail conditions.

About 1pm today officers attached to Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command arrested a 52-year-old man at a home in Vaucluse, police said in a statement yesterday.

It is alleged the man had been breaching his bail conditions.

He was taken to Waverley Police Station and will appear before Waverley Local Court to have his bail redetermined.

OKeefe was granted bail at the end of July after he was charged with intimidation and breaching an apprehended violence order. He also allegedly returned a positive roadside drug test.

OKeefes arrest comes after dramaic police bodycam footage was made public, in which OKeefe verbally abuses police officers arresting him for assault and breaching an apprehended violence order.

This is what happens when I dont have my medication, OKeefe shouts.

This is a very simple request. Why are you being such fing Nazis about it?

A police prosecutor told Waverley Court yesterday afternoon, As of todays date, he is on a conditional release order for a breached AVO, on bail for another breached AVO and has an appeal before a higher court for another breach of AVO.

OKeefe was allowwed to remain on bail, but was told he needed to control himself.

At Wednesday afternoons hearing, Barko allowed OKeefe to remain on bail, telling him he needed to control himself.

Outside Waverley police station, OKeefe said: This morning I was contacted by an ex-partner, who was threatening to commit suicide repeatedly.

I got out of court to discover a message that said she was just about to do it. I called triple zero and went to the police station to report it, as a consequence of which I was arrested over an order that I didnt know existed.

OKeefe was found guilty in January of kicking, pushing and spitting at a woman and of possessing 1.6 grams of mephedrone, or meow meow, at a Sydney hotel. He is appealing the convictions.

Source: The Age
Production has commenced in Sydney for the second season of Strife, starring Gold Logie nominee Asher Keddie.

Returning cast are Matt Day, Tina Bursill, Emma Lung, Maria Angelico, Rhys Mitchell, Olivia Junkeer, BeBe Bettencourt, Bryony Skillington, Darcy Tadich Willow Speers, Jonathan LaPaglia, Alex Dimitriades, Lucy Ansell and Lincoln Younes.

Further cast announcements are to come.

Asher Keddie said: Sarah Scheller has created so many layers to explore in the journey for this second series. Theres a beautiful, complex honesty to the writing and I cant wait to bring viewers inside Evelyns experience as she navigates new challenges, ambition, morality, and love.

Alison Hurbert-Burns, Commissioner & Executive Producer said: We are thrilled to be back in Sydney filming the next chapter of Strife with our exceptional cast and creative team. Season one was a record-breaking hit for Binge, captivating viewers with its flawed, hilarious, and deeply human characters. We cant wait to continue Evelyns story and deliver world-class, premium storytelling once again to our viewers.

Mia Freedman, Executive Producer said: Starting work on season two has felt like getting the band back together in the best way. I continue to learn so much from the amazing women and men working on this show and season two is already a blast. LFG.

Made Up Stories said: Were so happy to be back with our Strife family again, and our wonderful partners at Binge. After the overwhelming response to season one, were so excited to be back in this world with a cast led by our partner Asher Keddie.

Kyas Hepworth, Head of Screen NSW said: Off the back of a record-breaking debut, Im so excited Screen NSW is supporting Strife as it heads back into production in Sydney for season two. I cant wait to see where Made Up Stories, Sarah Scheller and the entire team take Evelyns story next and I know audiences cant wait either.

In season two, Evelyn Jones (Asher Keddie) is under siege. With the threat of a new rival womens website looming and the arrival of a nasty troll calling out her hypocrisy and privilege, Evelyn is double guessing her instincts right when she needs to be on her A game. Eve Life has expanded to a fancy new office and ventures into podcasting, but Evelyn needs to find an investor to keep the ship afloat. At home, shes still birdnesting with Jon as the pair explore dating again  but with other people.

Produced by award-winning production company Made Up Stories (Big Little Lies, Nine Perfect Strangers) in partnership with global film and TV studio Fifth Season, with major production investment from Screen Australia, Strife is a comedic drama that follows Evelyn Jones (Asher Keddie), a modern, imperfect woman and publisher, on her journey from lounge room blogger to becoming a force in womens media. Set in the dynamic world of publishing and digital media, the series is inspired by Mia Freedmans memoir Work, Strife, Balance and written by Australian screenwriter Sarah Scheller (The Letdown).

Sarah Scheller returns as both writer and executive producer for the new season, joined by a talented team of writers including Clare Stephens, Jessie Stephens, Andy Healy, Lexi Freiman, Amy Stewart, and Mary Coustas. Neil Sharma (Heartbreak High, Mother and Son) will direct all eight episodes of season 2. Executive producers for Made Up Stories are Bruna Papandrea, Steve Hutensky, and Katie Amos, alongside Asher Keddie, Mia Freedman, Sarah Scheller, Alison Hurbert-Burns and Lana Greenhalgh. Lorelle Adamson will serve as producer.

Production credit: Strife Season 2 is a Made Up Stories and Fifth Season production for Binge. Major production investment from Foxtel Group and Screen Australia. Financed with support from Screen NSW through the Made in NSW Fund. International Sales by Fifth Season. Post, digital and visual effects supported by Screen NSW.
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India hails Groups protecting Bangladeshi Hindus, Temples

The Narendra Modi government Tuesday hailed protection provided to Temples and Hindus by Muslim students and organizations during the anti-government protests in Bangladesh which forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the country.

Wednesday August 7, 2024 10:15 AM , ummid.com News Network

New Delhi: The Narendra Modi government Tuesday hailed protection provided to Temples and Hindus by Muslim students and organizations during the anti-government protests in Bangladesh which forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the country.

In a suo-moto statement in both the houses of the Parliament Tuesday, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar expressed concerns over the reports of attacks on the minorities in Bangladesh.

He however hastened to add that the full extent of the situation is unclear, at the same time welcoming the protection provided to Temples and Bangladeshi Hindus by student groups and local originations.

In his statement, the Indian Foreign Minister also acknowledged the deep rooted and close ties India enjoys with Bangladesh irrespective of the government in power.

.. 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, S Jaishankar said in Rajya Sabha. Suo-moto statement in Rajyasabha on the situation in Bangladesh. https://t.co/ceM41AEATE  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024 We are 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. We welcome that, S Jaishankar said without naming the groups and organisations.

Indian media under fire

The Indian Foreign Ministers acknowledgement of protection provided to Temples and Bangladeshi Hindus is important as a section of the Indian Media, as always, is trying to give communal colour to the anti-government protests in Bangladesh.

The students organisations, human rights activists, above all Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajote, an alliance of 23 small and big Hindu religious organizations of Bangladesh, have condemned the communally charged reporting of the mainstream Indian Media.

The General Secretary of Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajote in a statement said temples run by those close to Sheikh Hasinas Awami League and Hindu leaders of the erstwhile government came under the attack as was the case with Muslims who were close to the former ruling establishment.

Bangladesh Jatiya Hindu Mohajote also said the leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ensured the safety of their homes and Hindu places of worship.

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 Gobinda Pramanik, Secretary General of Bangladesh Jatio Hindu Mohajote, said in a video statement .

Ruling out communal attacks on Hindus or the Hindu Temples, Human rights activists and lawyers in a statement 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.

Photos, videos of Muslims protecting temples

Meanwhile, photos and videos of Muslims students and clerics guarding the Hindu Temples also went viral on various 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 mainstream 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 .

Muhammed Yunus leads Interim government

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus - a longtime political foe of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina - has been named the leader of the interim government.

The 84-year-old was appointed a day after Sheikh Hasina fled the country following weeks of deadly protests calling for her resignation.

She is currently residing at the Hindon Air Force base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad - around 30 km from the Indian capital, New Delhi. According to reports, she is in conversation with a number of countries for asylum.

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Waqf Amendment Bill: Hidden Agenda to Further Pulverize Indian Muslims

The latest move by the BJP government to make amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995 is on the lines of the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Citizen Register (NCR) which has a huge bearing on Indian Muslims

Thursday August 8, 2024 0:23 AM , Syed Ali Mujtaba

The latest move by the BJP government to make amendments to the Waqf Act of 1995 is on the lines of the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Citizen Register (NCR) which has a huge bearing on Indian Muslims.

The proposed bill wants to bring 44 amendments to the existing Act. The new bill likes to revoke several clauses in the laws governing Waqf boards.

No wonder the proposed amendments have evoked severe criticism from the Muslim community. The hidden agenda for bringing the Wakf Amendment bill is to census the Wakf properties settled in 1947 once again.

This necessity has arisen because several Muslim sites that are listed as wakf properties like the mosque in Varanasi, Iddgah in Mathura, the Kamal Maula Mosque ( Bhojshala) in Dhar in Madhya Pradesh, etc. are demanded by the Hindutva forces to be given to the Hindu community. However, since such sites are declared as Wakaf properties they can't be touched.

It is to undo the Wakf properties that are exclusive to the Muslim community that such a bill is being proposed. The general perception among the Muslim community about the proposed Bill is the BJP government wants control of the Waqf properties to nationalize them and rob the Muslims of the assets that belong to them.

There has been a long-standing demand by the Muslim community that Wakf properties should be organized on the line of the Gurudawara Act of 1925 and freed from government control.

Muslims argue that there is so much Wakf property all over India, that if Muslims are given the control to govern, the poor community can take care of their problems without showing their begging bowl to the government of the day. In such a case Muslims wont look at the governments largesse for their development.

However, the successive governments have not been receptive to such a demand by the Muslims to create such a body due to its political repercussions.

The thinking goes that the formation of a Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee like body for Muslims can create a political party similar to the Srimoni Akali Dal that holds considerable political power in Punjab.

The government fears that giving such autonomy to the Wakf Board may lead to Muslims being organized under a pan-India identity which may be a problem for any future government and the issue of Muslim identity politics may fang again.

Here it needs to be mentioned that the Wakf properties are listed in the Muslim Awqaf Board Register in every state of India. They are in the form of several mosques, graveyards, Takia (burial place of a Sufi saint) Khanqah, schools, orphanages, Idgah, etc.

If Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used to ascertain the monetary value of the Wakaf properties, the safest conclusion could be why Muslims are so poor in India, when they are so rich! This is because there is a deliberate attempt to keep them poor by the successive ruling dispensation in the country.

If the true value of the wakf properties are made public it can be safely said that Indian Muslims do not need any dole from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, for scholarships or Haj subsidies, etc. They can manage their financial woes from their assets.

However, the fact remains that many of the Wakf properties are encroached upon and have been swallowed by the land-grabbing mafia or are under litigation.

The BJP government instead of sorting out such problems wants to make amendments to the Wakf Act to further complicate the problems that lay undernith it.

The proposed Wakf Amendment Bill has come under criticism by AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi who has said that the BJP government's proposed amendment to the Waqf Board Act is against the fundamental right of freedom of religion. The government wants to take away the autonomy of the Wakf board and likes to compromise its independent sanctity.

[The writer, Syed Ali Mujtaba, is a journalist based in Chennai. He can be contacted at syedalimujtaba2007@gmail.com. The featured image used here is generated by AI.]





Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic.
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As long as necessary to complete the purposes, unless otherwise instructed by consumer, or unless otherwise disclosed at the time of collection.

2. CATEGORIES OF SOURCES OF PERSONAL INFORMATION. Directly from you: We collect Personal Information that you provide directly to us while using our Sites or interacting with us offline. This includes: Contact and demographic information when registering to use our Sites and services.

Payment information and associated contact information when engaging in a transaction on our Sites.

Email address information when subscribing to our email lists.

Any information or data you provide by interacting in our online forums and chatrooms, or by commenting on content posted on our Sites. Please note that these comments are also visible to other users of our services and may be visible to anyone else on the internet.

Information you provide when you submit a question or complete a survey.

Information you provide when participating in a charity event or offering a donation.

Information you provide when you participate in a contest or sweepstakes.

If you contact us, we may keep a record of that correspondence and any contact information provided. Information We Collect Automatically: When you interact with and use the Sites, certain information about your use of our Sites is automatically collected. Much of this information is collected through cookies, web beacons, pixels, and other tracking technologies, as well as through your web browser or device. This includes: Details of your visits to our Sites and information generated in the course of using our Sites (including the timing, frequency and pattern of service use) including, but not limited to, traffic data, location data, weblogs and other communication data, the resources that you access, and how you reached our Sites.

Details regarding the device you use to access our services, including, but not limited to, your IP address, operating system and browser type.

Information about how you interact with our ads and email newsletters, including whether you open or click links in any correspondence.

Information that you make available to us on a social media platform (including by clicking on a social media icon linked from our services or by signing up for our newsletter through a social media service), including your account ID, email address, username, and other information included in your posts. For more information about our use of cookies, web beacons, pixels, and other tracking technologies on the Sites, please see our Cookie Policy.

3. CATEGORIES OF PERSONAL INFORMATION SOLD OR SHARED TO THIRD PARTIES. In this privacy policy, the terms sale, and share (including any variations thereof), and other similar terms have the meaning ascribed to them under applicable data privacy laws. The following defined terms are used in the charts below to describe the categories of third parties with whom we disclose, sell, share, or otherwise make available Personal Information: Service Providers: including hosting providers, auditors, advisors, consultants, payment processors, cybersecurity, e-commerce, technology, and customer service and/or support providers.

including hosting providers, auditors, advisors, consultants, payment processors, cybersecurity, e-commerce, technology, and customer service and/or support providers. Advertising and Marketing Partners: including social media networks and third parties that provide advertising, campaign measurement, online and/or mobile analytics, and related services.

including social media networks and third parties that provide advertising, campaign measurement, online and/or mobile analytics, and related services. Subsidiaries, Affiliates, and Business Partners: including affiliated brands, parent company, and other companies under common ownership, control or management.

including affiliated brands, parent company, and other companies under common ownership, control or management. Government entities: including courts, legislative and regulatory bodies, law enforcement agencies, or other federal, state, or local government entities. Category of Personal Information Sold or Shared?



Purpose of Sale/Sharing Category of Third Parties with whom we Share or Sell Personal Information Personal Identifiers To serve advertisements. Advertising and Marketing Partners. To administer sweepstakes, contests and promotions. Commercial information To serve advertisements. Advertising and Marketing Partners. Internet or other similar network activity To serve advertisements. Advertising and Marketing Partners. Geolocation data To serve advertisements. Advertising and Marketing Partners. Inferences drawn from other personal information To serve advertisements. Advertising and Marketing Partners.

4. CATEGORIES OF PERSONAL INFORMATION DISCLOSED TO THIRD PARTIES. The term disclosure refers to any action or process by which personal information is transferred, made available, or otherwise communicated to third parties, excluding activities classified as "sales" or "sharing" as outlined in Section 3. Category of Personal Information Disclosed?



Purpose of Disclosure Category of Third Parties with whom we Disclose Personal Information Personal Identifiers Operating our business and providing, maintaining, and improving our Sites and services. Audience targeting and running campaigns. Conducting contests and sweepstakes. Protecting and enforcing our and others interests, rights, and property. Other purposes disclosed to you at the time you provide your Personal Information or otherwise with your consent. Service Providers. Advertising and Marketing Partners. Subsidiaries, Affiliates, and Business Partners. Government Entities. Protected classification characteristics under state or federal law Protecting and enforcing our and others interests, rights, and property. Other purposes disclosed to you at the time you provide your Personal Information or otherwise with your consent. Service Providers. Advertising and Marketing Partners. Subsidiaries, Affiliates, and Business Partners. Government Entities. Commercial information Operating our business and providing, maintaining, and improving our Sites and services. Sending you newsletters and tailoring other content we display to you and offers we may present to you, both on the Sites and elsewhere online. For our internal business purposes. Audience targeting and running campaigns. Processing commercial transactions and financial contributions. Other purposes disclosed to you at the time you provide your Personal Information or otherwise with your consent. Protecting and enforcing our and others interests, rights, and property. Service providers. Promotional partners and joint marketing partners. Subsidiaries and affiliates. Internet or other similar network activity Operating our business and providing, maintaining, and improving our Sites and services. Audience targeting and running campaigns. Other purposes disclosed to you at the time you provide your Personal Information or otherwise with your consent. Protecting and enforcing our and others interests, rights, and property. For internal business purposes. Service Providers. Advertising and Marketing Partners. Subsidiaries, Affiliates, and Business Partners. Government Entities. Geolocation data Operating our business and providing, maintaining, and improving our Sites and services. Audience targeting and running campaigns. Other purposes disclosed to you at the time you provide your Personal Information or otherwise with your consent. Protecting and enforcing our and others interests, rights, and property. For internal business purposes. Service Providers. Advertising and Marketing Partners. Sensitive Personal Information For internal business purposes. Advertising and Marketing Partners.

5. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT OUR DATA COLLECTION AND DISCLOSURE PRACTICES. We may disclose non-personally identifiable information, such as aggregated user statistics and certain usage information, with service providers and other third parties, including third party advertisers, content providers and analytics providers, may themselves collect such information when you visit the Sites. We do not disclose your Personal Information with third parties for their marketing purposes unless you agree to such sharing by opting in. You may opt-out of sharing by clicking the  Do Not Sell or Share My Info  link. We may disclose the information we have collected about you, including Personal Information, as disclosed at the time you provide your information or otherwise with your consent (to the extent required by law), and as described in this Privacy Policy. When You Agree To Receive Information From Third Parties Or Otherwise Request That We Share Your Information. You may be presented with an opportunity to receive information and/or marketing offers from one or more third parties. If you agree at that time to have your Personal Information shared, your Personal Information will be disclosed to that third party (or parties) and will be subject to the privacy policy and practices of that third party. We are not responsible for the privacy policies and practices of third parties, and, if you later decide that you no longer want to receive communications from a third party, you will need to contact that third party directly. You also may request, sometimes through your use of an interactive feature or third party application, that we share information about you with a third party and we will typically do so under those circumstances. For example, if you "like" content on our Sites, information about you may transfer to the third party offering that application on our Sites and to the third party web site to which you are posting. Third Parties Providing Services on our Behalf. We may use third party service providers to perform certain services on behalf of the Sites, such as hosting the Sites, designing and/or operating the Sites' features, analyzing users' interactions with the Sites, sending communications, safeguarding against fraud, or performing other administrative services. We may provide these service providers with access to user information, including Personal Information, to carry out the services they are performing for you or for the Sites. Sweepstakes, Contests and Promotions. We may offer sweepstakes, contests, and other promotions (a "Promotion") that may require registration. By participating in a Promotion, you are agreeing to the terms, conditions or official rules that govern that Promotion, which may contain specific requirements of you, including, except where prohibited by law, allowing the sponsor(s) of the Promotion to use your name, voice, likeness or other indicia of persona in advertising or marketing associated with the Promotion. If you choose to enter a Promotion, Personal Information may be disclosed to third parties or the public in connection with the administration of such Promotion including, without limitation, in connection with winner selection, prize fulfillment, and as required by law or permitted by the Promotion's official rules, such as on a winners list. Administrative and Legal Reasons. We may also transfer and disclose user information, including Personal Information, to third parties: (i) in the event we are required to respond to subpoenas or other legal process or if in our opinion such disclosure is required by law; (ii) at the request of governmental authorities conducting an investigation; or (iii) to protect and/or defend the Sites' Terms of Use or other policies applicable to the Sites or to protect the personal safety, rights, property or security of any individual. To that extent, we may disclose certain Personal Information to a third party we engage to protect against fraud and the unauthorized use of credit and gift cards. We may also use Device Identifiers (e.g., IP addresses) to identify users, and may do so in cooperation with copyright owners, Internet service providers, wireless service providers or law enforcement agencies, in our discretion. These disclosures may be carried out without notice to you. Business Transfers. VICE may share Personal Information with its subsidiaries and affiliates for internal business reasons. VICE also reserves the right to disclose and transfer all information related to the Sites, including Personal Information: (i) to a subsequent owner, co-owner or operator of the Sites or component of the Sites, such as a database; or (ii) in connection with a corporate merger, consolidation, restructuring, the sale of certain of VICE's ownership interests, assets, or both, or other corporate change, including, without limitation, during the course of any due diligence process.

6. INFORMATION YOU CHOOSE TO PUBLICLY DISPLAY THROUGH THE SITES, AND POSTING CONTENT TO THIRD PARTY SITES You may be able to submit comments, ideas, reviews, suggestions and other content ("User Content") to the Sites and to post your User Content publicly on message boards, chat rooms, and other public areas (collectively, "Community Forums"). Note that anything you post to a Community Forum is public. Information you choose to post or make available in the Community Forums may be viewed, collected and used by others. If you choose to voluntarily disclose User Content, the protections of this Privacy Policy will not cover your disclosure of that information or content. Think carefully before you post and use caution before disclosing any Personal Information. VICE may publish User Content online or offline in any media or format (currently existing or later developed). Subject to applicable law, we may also publish your name, voice, likeness and other Personal Information with your User Content, and VICE may use the content, or any portion of the content, for advertising, marketing, publicity and promotional activities. For full terms and conditions regarding User Content you submit, please review our Terms of Use. Also, if you choose to "like" content on one of the Sites, to tweet from the Sites or to otherwise post information from or via the Sites to a third party web site, feature or application, that information may be public and the third party may have access to information about you and your use of our Sites.

7. YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS (CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, FLORIDA, INIDIANA, IOWA, MONTANA, OREGON, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, NEVADA AND UTAH) Right to Know  You have the right to request that we disclose certain information to you about our collection and use of your Personal Information over the past 12 months. Once we receive and confirm your verifiable consumer request, we will disclose to you the categories and specific pieces of Personal Information we have collected about you, as well as the categories of sources from which such information is collected, the purpose for collecting such information, the categories of third parties with whom we share such information, and information about our sale or disclosure for business purposes of your Personal Information to third parties. Right to Delete  You have the right to request that we delete any of your Personal Information that we have collected from you and retained, subject to certain exceptions. Once we receive and confirm your verifiable consumer request, we will delete (and direct our service providers to delete) your Personal Information from our records, unless an exception applies. Right to Correct  You have the right to request that we correct inaccurate Personal Information that we have collected from you and retained, subject to certain exceptions. Once we receive and confirm your verifiable consumer request, we will correct (and direct our service providers to correct) your Personal Information, unless an exception applies or we determine that our records are likely accurate. Right to Non-Discrimination  You have the right to not be discriminated against for exercising any of these rights. Right to Data Portability  You have the right to request that we provide a copy of the Personal Information we have collected about you, in a portable and, to the extent technically feasible, readily usable format that allows you to transmit the data to another entity without hindrance. Once we receive your request and confirm your identity, we will provide to you a copy of your data as required under the applicable data protection laws. We may provide this data to you through your user account with us, or via email to the email address you have provided with your request. If you would like to exercise one or more of the above rights, please contact us using the contact information provided at the end of this section. We may need you to provide additional information to verify your request, such as providing certain data elements so that we can confirm they match the Personal Information already maintained by us. We will not use this additional information for anything other than handling your request. You may designate an authorized agent to make a request in certain circumstances on your behalf. We will endeavor to respond to all such requests within forty-five (45) days, although there may be a brief delay in processing a request while we verify that the request is valid and originates from you as opposed to an unauthorized third party. If we require more time, we will inform you of the reason and extension period in writing. State consumer privacy laws may provide their residents with additional rights regarding our use of their personal information. The states listed above, provide (now or in the future) their state residents with rights to: Confirm whether we process their personal information.

Access and delete certain personal information.

Correct inaccuracies in their personal information, taking into account the informations nature processing purpose (excluding Iowa and Utah).

Data portability.

Opt-out of personal data processing for: targeted advertising (excluding Iowa); sales; or profiling in furtherance of decisions that produce legal or similarly significant effects (excluding Iowa and Utah).

Either limit (opt-out of) or require consent to process sensitive personal data. Right to Appeal  If you make a request to exercise any of the above privacy rights and we are unable to comply with your request, you may request to appeal our decision. To appeal any data privacy request decision, please contact us here. If after you complete the appeal process with us, you are still unsatisfied with our response, you may contact your state Attorney General to file a complaint.  If you make a request to exercise any of the above privacy rights and we are unable to comply with your request, you may request to appeal our decision. To appeal any data privacy request decision, please contact us here. If after you complete the appeal process with us, you are still unsatisfied with our response, you may contact your state Attorney General to file a complaint.

8. CALIFORNIA PRIVACY RIGHTS The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA") provides California residents with rights to receive certain disclosures regarding the collection, use, and sharing of Personal Information, In addition to the rights described above in Section 7, California residents have the following rights: Right to Opt Out of Sale  You have the right to opt-out of the Sale or Sharing of your Personal Information. We use your Personal Information for the purposes described in the Information We Collect section above, some of which may be considered to be a Sale or Sharing under applicable privacy laws and you may have the right to request to opt-out of such data uses. To exercise this right, please click the  Do Not Sell or Share My Info  link, call us at +1-888-269-1005, or set your browser Global Privacy Controls to send this signal when you visit our Sites. Right to Limit the use of Sensitive Personal Information  The CCPA gives consumers the right to limit the use of their Sensitive Personal Information to only the purposes for which it was collected. We only use Sensitive Personal Information for the purpose for which it was collected, in aggregated and deidentified form to gain insights about our audience, and we do not use it to infer characteristics about you. California Shine the Light  Pursuant to California Civil Code Section 1798.83, residents of the State of California have the right to request, once a year, a list of all third parties to which the company has disclosed certain categories of Personal Information, such as those outlined in Sections 3 and 4, during the preceding year for the third parties' direct marketing purposes, and the categories of Personal Information the company shares. Alternatively, the law provides that a company may comply, as VICE does, by disclosing in its privacy policy that it provides consumers choice (opt-out or opt-in) regarding sharing Personal Information with third parties for those third parties' direct marketing purposes, and information on how to exercise that choice. As stated below in this Privacy Policy, VICE provides you choice prior to sharing your Personal Information with third parties for their direct marketing purposes. If you do not opt in or if you choose to opt out at the time VICE offers that choice, VICE does not share your information with that identified third party for its direct marketing purposes.

9. SUBMITTING A REQUEST TO EXERCISE YOUR PRIVACY RIGHTS If you are a California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Montana, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, or Virginia resident and you have questions about our privacy practices or would like to exercise one or more of the rights listed above, please send your request to the following email address: USPrivacy@vice.com; call us at +1-888-269-1005; or write to us at the following mailing address: Vice Media Acquisition LLC

45 Main St, Suite 200

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HA NOI  The Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam (CAAV) has urged carriers to increase the hunt for aircraft rentals to meet rising travelling demand in the remaining months of this year.

The authority said that it would create the most favourable conditions for airlines to put rented aircraft into operation early.

Statistics showed that the total number of aircraft granted Air Operation Certificate (AOC) of domestic carriers was 195 as of the end of July, 36 lower than the same period last year. On average, around 167 aircraft are in operation, 51 lower than last year.

The shortage is caused by the global recall of engines by Pratt & Whitney for their PW1100 on Airbus A321Neo and the restructuring of Bamboo Airways and Pacific Airlines.

About 94.4 per cent of the aircraft granted AOCs were operated in 2023, but the rate has fallen to 85.6 per cent this year.

The CAAV forecast that the aviation industry would handle around 78.3 million passengers and 1.21 million tonnes of cargo in 2024, representing a rise of 7.7 per cent and 13.4 per cent, respectively, over 2023.

To meet the rising travelling demand, domestic airlines recently geared up the efforts to lease aircraft.

Bamboo Airways has rented three aircraft following wet leasing agreements to focus on increasing capacity for routes with high travelling demand during summer such as Nha Trang, a Nang and Quy Nhon.

Bamboo Airways general director Luong Hoai Nam said that the carrier was striving to get planes for its domestic routes.

The carrier expected to rent one additional plane in the remaining months of this year to open new domestic routes including HCM City  a Lat, HCM City  Thanh Hoa and HCM City  Phu Quoc.

The shortage of aircraft might linger on to next year, general director of Vietnam Airlines Le Hong Ha said.

Vietnam Airlines raised a number of solutions to cope with the shortage, including reducing flight frequencies on low-demand routes in off-peak times and increasing frequencies for high-demand.

The airline also planned to rent five more aircrafts by the end of this year.

The airline was also boosting flights with attractive ticket prices in early mornings and late evenings. Occupancy rates of the flights to tourist magnets like Ha Noi, HCM City, a Nang, Nha Trang, a Lat, Quy Nhon, and Phu Quoc that take off after 9pm and before 5am in May and June were high, reaching 75  94 per cent, Ha added.

For its part, Vietjet plans to receive ten additional planes between now and the end of 2024, including eight A321Neos and two E190s. It is scheduled to add more A321Neo, A330-300, E190, and Boeing 737 Max to its fleet in 2025.

Deputy Minister of Transport Le Anh Tuan said the aviation sector could still expect to encounter numerous difficulties along with aircraft shortages including carriers restructuring, route rearrangement, higher fuel costs and foreign exchange differences, which might impact airfares.

During the first half of 2024, Vietnamese airlines served nearly 37.5 million passengers, up 3.7 per cent year on year and equivalent to 96 per cent of the figure in the same period of 2019, when the aviation market was enjoying good growth. Notably, they included 20.2 million passengers on international routes, soaring 38.6 per cent year on year and equivalent to that in the first half of 2019, statistics show.

Viet Nam's aviation safety index was rated at 77.1 per cent, up 11.54 per cent from 2016 and well above the Asia-Pacific average of 65.31 per cent and the global average of 68.81 per cent, according to the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.  VNS
HA NOI - Having fewer regulations for personal loans under VN100 million doesn't mean the approval process will be easier, said policymakers and industry experts.

Borrowers of less than VND100 million do not need to provide a feasibility plan to repay as the banks only require their financial records and the intended use for the money.

The more streamlined process was designed to help boost national spending by making personal loans more accessible to the public, said industry experts. Commercial banks have implemented reforms to speed up the development of additional consumer digital products.

"The loan approval process will remain as strict as usual. Our policy changes should only be interpreted as a move to align with the economy's need to promote consumer finance in the coming period," said SBV's deputy governor ao Minh Tu.

Early customer feedback indicated difficulties still remained for borrowers.

Nguyen Mai Huong, a resident of Ha Noi said she needed a small loan to purchase a motorbike recently, said the process was still rather inconvenient. She said the banks asked for a lot of information, including her ability to repay, and her residence. Some banks asked for the information of a co-borrower.

"The bank required me to submit a six-month salary record along with an employment contract but my husband and I are freelancers without fixed salaries or employment contracts. Additionally, the bank asked me to provide photocopies of my ID card, marriage certificate, and the co-borrower information, including name, date of birth, ID card, and workplace," Huong said.

All that for a loan at 10.5 per cent interest a year, which according to her, wasn't as low as she had hoped. Huong later decided it wasn't worth the hassle and went with a consumer finance company.

She said it took about 12 hours before she received the money.

"They only needed my ID, utility bills and insurance number. While their rate was a bit higher than the bank's the painless process was worth the money," she said.

A banking industry representative said the banks want a process as simple as possible for small personal loans but customers must, one way or another, be able to prove they can repay the loans.

"We must ensure the loans can be recovered because we are responsible for our depositors' money, which we also have to pay interest on. That's why it should not be easy to secure a loan," he said.

According to a report by the Vietnam Banks Association (VNBA), bad debt at many consumer finance companies and some banks has been approaching alarming levels.

The report also showed the risk in consumer credit was quite significant. Consumer loans' bad debt ratio at the end of 2023 was 3.8 per cent, increasing to over 4 per cent by the first quarter of 2024. Bad debt at finance companies at the end of 2023 was 15 per cent, and by the first quarter of this year, it was about 14.63 per cent.

By the end of June 2024, the system's bad debt ratio was 4.56 per cent. The total bad debt and potential bad debt in the system accounted for 6.44 per cent of total outstanding loans.

Collecting personal loans has always been a challenge despite efforts by the banking industry and the authorities.

"Two things are for sure. Banks will not make it easy to get a loan because they must ensure safety. Interest for unsecured personal loans will always be higher than business loans or loans backed up with collaterals," said Nguyen Quoc Hung, VNBA's vice chairman and secretary-general. VNS
HA NOI  The Korea Trade and Investment Promotion Agency in Ha Noi (Kotra Ha Noi), part of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea (RoK) in Viet Nam, held a conference on Viet Nam-RoK co-operation in the semiconductor industry on Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, RoK Ambassador to Viet Nam Choi Young Sam believed that the event would not only mark a milestone in traditional manufacturing sectors but also offer detailed solutions to advancing bilateral co-operation in the hi-tech industry.

The RoK Embassy in Viet Nam, Kotra, and all Korean agencies and organisations will make continuous efforts to drive semiconductor cooperation between the two countries, he said.

Vo Xuan Hoai, Deputy Director of the National Innovation Centre under the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), said there are over 40 chip design companies and nearly 15 others involved in packaging, testing, and manufacturing semiconductor-related equipment in Viet Nam. Many of them are from the RoK, including Samsung, Hana Micron, and Amkor Technology.

To create an environment conducive for the Vietnamese semiconductor industry, the Vietnamese Government has demonstrated significant political commitment to advancing this high-tech sector.

In relevant resolutions from the Party, National Assembly and Government, the semiconductor industry is considered a key area for future socio-economic development. The PM also established a National Committee to oversee the development of the semiconductor industry, with he himself serving as the Chairman.

Hoai noted that the MPI has submitted a national strategy on semiconductor industry development, and a scheme on human resources development for the industry to the PM.

In the coming time, the MPI will submit a draft decree to the Government to establish special mechanisms for the NIC, with specific provisions for semiconductor companies in the NIC, he added.

According to experts, as many countries are competing to become global semiconductor manufacturing hubs. Viet Nam stands to benefit from this trend if it focuses its investments strategically in the semiconductor industry.

They advised Viet Nam to engage in areas such as microchip design, semiconductors for smart vehicles, mid-range technology chips, and semiconductor packaging.  VNS
HCM CITY  Vietjet is offering passengers on Business and SkyBoss ticket classes up to 30 per cent discount, applying to all domestic and international routes, with the booking period from now until August 31.

The promotion, which aims to show its gratitude to passengers when welcoming the 200 millionth passenger, will be available on www.vietjetair.com, the Vietjet Air mobile app, booking offices and official agents worldwide. The flights need to be taken between August 19 and November 30, 2024.

Additionally, SkyBoss tickets offer premium services, a flexible all-inclusive package and 5-in-1 utilities, with a luxurious lounge, up to 50kg of checked baggage, in-flight dining, comfortable seats and free Sky Care travel insurance.

Earlier, Vietjet said it will be offering all passengers flying directly between Viet Nam and China on routes connecting Viet Nam with Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi'an, and Hong Kong (China) with 20kg of free checked baggage.  VNS
HA NOI  Manulife Vietnams sales verification and supervision process, M-Pro, has been recognised as the 'Digital Transformation Initiative of the Year' at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024, one of the most prestigious awards of the insurance industry across the Asia Pacific.

The judging panel of the Insurance Asia Awards 2024 highly commended Manulifes M-Pro process for its pioneering and innovative approach, the significant value and benefits it brings to customers and its overall efficiency and contribution to the insurance industry.

Launched in early 2024, M-Pro enables customers to digitally verify their identity and confirm their personal information. At the same time, customers are offered the opportunity to review key aspects of their insurance policy, including benefits, premium payment details and other investment risk disclosures.

This initiative not only empowers customers with a comprehensive understanding of their policy before signing but also allows Manulife Vietnam to independently assess the quality of advice provided by its agents, ensuring that customers receive a thorough consultation.

According to Manulife's internal survey, 99 per cent of customers highly appreciate the transparency of the M-Pro process. The same percentage of customers also reported feeling more confident toward their insurance agents, Manulife and their chosen insurance products.

Approximately 96 per cent of surveyed customers completed the M-Pro process without requiring any assistance, demonstrating its user-friendliness and suitability for a wide range of customers.

Tina Nguyen, CEO of Manulife Vietnam, said: "Effective digital transformation is the key to improving customer experience while enhancing transparency, safety, and speed in customer service and insurance business operations.

"M-Pro is a bold innovation, being used for the first time in the insurance industry. We are delighted that this initiative has been positively received by our customers. Soon, Manulife Vietnam will launch additional digital initiatives such as 24/7 Customer support and the Medallia customer feedback system (tNPS) to provide even more convenience for our customers."

Viet Nam's life insurance market is undergoing a transformation and a strengthening of customer trust. As a result, efforts to increase transparency in the insurance industry have become crucial for businesses in this sector. Digital transformation has emerged as a vital tool to achieve this goal, aligning with global trends, especially in dynamic markets like Viet Nam.

Being recognised as the 'Digital Transformation Initiative of the Year' at the prestigious Insurance Asia Awards 2024 demonstrates Manulife Vietnam's rapid and significant progress after a year of facing industry-wide challenges, solidifying its position as a pioneer in the digital transformation race, the company said in a note.

Beyond the M-Pro process, which is a significant highlight in Manulife Vietnam's digital transformation journey, the Canadian insurer has also implemented several other notable digital initiatives.

These include upgrading the online claims platform (eClaims 3.0) with advanced features to reduce average claim handling time to just 1.6 days, launching the Manulife Vietnam app, providing a comprehensive solution for customers to manage their policies, track claims, and access other useful features and introducing the M-PA smart assistant app to enhance the efficiency of its agency network.

Previously, Manulife Vietnam was honoured by Vietnam Report as one of the top 10 most reputable life insurance companies in 2024, with the strongest financial capacity in the market.  VNS
HCM CITY  The Saigon Beer-Alcohol-Beverage Corporation (SABECO) recently launched 333 Pilsner, underscoring the company's dedication to continual innovation in providing top-notch products that cater to the evolving preferences of Vietnamese consumers.

During the unveiling event, the company emphasised that the new product offers a distinctive and exceptionally smooth experience for Vietnamese consumers.

Leveraging the expertise of its Vietnamese brewmasters who possess an in-depth grasp of local tastes, SABECO incorporated European technology along with premium imported ingredients to craft a new beer boasting exceptional aroma, flavoUr, and remarkable drinkability.

333 Pilsner marks the first addition to Bia 333's range  one of the pioneering beer brands of Viet Nam.

Lester Tan, CEO of SABECO, said: The introduction of 333 Pilsner reinforces our position as one of the leading beer brewers in Vietnam. With the talent and spirit of SABECO's Vietnamese brewmasters, we will continue to deliver on our commitment to offer high quality products to the market, apply world-class innovation in our operations, and prioritising ethics in the way we conduct our business. By doing all this, we want to reflect our efforts towards sustainable growth while contributing to the progress of the country and embody the spirit of modern Viet Nam.

An outstanding feature of Bia 333 Pilsner lies in the utilisation of hops from the Hallertau region in Bavaria, Germany  the world's largest hop-growing area. These hops serve as a key premium ingredient in Bia 333 Pilsner, enhancing its refined flavor profile with a subtle bitterness that complements its well-balanced taste.

By combining quality ingredients with European extended cold fermentation technology, 333 Pilsner delivers a lighter and smoother taste that sets it apart from other beers on the market, elevating the overall drinking experience. The innovative process involves fermenting the beer at low temperatures, followed by extended aging at even colder temperatures, which enhance the beer's natural aroma and ensure a smooth taste, resulting in a bright, clear beer colour.

The new extra smooth 333 Pilsner, with an alcohol content of 4.3 per cent, is presented in two elegant variations: a high-necked green bottle (330ml) and a tall, sleek can, both featuring a modern, premium design that embodies a refreshing character.

As a prominent corporation in Viet Nam, SABECO is committed to success through creating positive impacts and contributing to the country's development by excelling in business performance, adhering to best industry practices, and fostering talent.

With a brewing legacy of 149 years, SABECO has solidified its position as one of Viet Nam's key companies. SABECO's operations encompass 26 breweries and 11 trading subsidiaries, supported by a widespread distribution network comprising hundreds of thousands of retailers nationwide. SABECO's brand portfolio includes popular beer labels in Viet Nam such as Bia Saigon Lager, Bia Saigon Chill, Bia Saigon Special, Bia Saigon Export, Bia Saigon Gold, and 333.

Committed to investing in business and sustainable development, SABECO continuously strives to drive positive changes that elevate the Vietnamese brand's presence while contributing to the community and the nation's positive growth. VNS
HA NOI  In the remaining months this year, Vietnam Engine and Agricultural Machinery Corporation (VEAM) wants to sell an inventory of vehicles from the VEAM Motor, Changan and ISEKI tractor brands.

This will require a comprehensive plan as soon as possible, since the VEAM Thanh Hoa factory has unsuccessfully attempted to liquidate its vehicles via auctions four times since 2021.

On June 12, 2024, the General Director of VEAM, Phan Pham Ha, was arrested for financial management violations. This event caused VEAM's stock price to plummet by VN1,553 billion (US$62.1 million) on the same trading day.

On June 20, 2024, VEAM's Board of Directors appointed a new General Director, Nguyen Hoang Giang, who previously served as the Deputy Director of the Department of Financial Planning at the Ministry of Industry and Trade. This was part of the appointment of four new board members.

Within VEAM's industrial production sector, a group of four subsidiaries - DISOCO, SVEAM, FUTU1, and FOMECO - are the largest revenue contributors, accounting for up to 82 per cent of VEAM's industrial production revenue. These subsidiaries manufacture motorcycle spare parts and are earning steady profits.

A financial report from VEAM highlights a mixed performance for this State-owned enterprise. Under the report, VEAMs industrial production value stood at VN1.56 trillion ($62.7 million), a 10 per cent decrease from the previous period, while revenue decreased seven per cent to more than VN2 trillion.

The corporations pre-tax profit is estimated to reach VN5.56 trillion, which represents a 15 per cent decline compared to the same period in 2023. Despite the drop, it met 94 per cent of its annual profit target.

The financial report indicates that while VEAM experienced a decline in revenue and industrial production, the parent company's after-tax profit has surged.

VEAMs parent companys after-tax profit is estimated to stand at VN5.36 trillion billion, achieving 98 per cent of the annual plan. VEAM received VN5.56 trillion in dividends from its three major joint ventures including Toyota, Honda and Ford.

March 31 is the end of the fiscal year in the Japanese accounting system and on this date each year, VEAM's joint ventures summarise profits and pay annual dividends to shareholders, with VEAM representing the owner.  VNS
Feature: Perseverance is key to success, says Chinese Juncao technology innovator

Xinhua) 13:38, August 07, 2024

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)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
HA NOI  Bilateral trade between Viet Nam and the Philippines will likely reach US$8.1-8.3 billion by the year end, up from 3.9-6.4 per cent year-on-year, the Viet Nam Trade Office in the Philippines has forecast.

Two-way trade hit $4.21 billion in the first half of this year. Of that $2.93 billion came from Viet Nams exports, up 17.6 per cent against that in the same period last year.

Rice was the largest turnover earner, at $1.2 billion, up 41 per cent year-on-year, accounting for 41 per cent of Viet Nam's total value from the market.

Others recording a turnover of over $100 million were machinery and equipment with $175 million, clinker and cement ($171 million), coffee ($134 million) and telephones and parts ($132 million).

During the period, Viet Nam also spent nearly $1.28 billion importing products from the Philippines, a yearly hike of 19.5 per cent.

Among major import items included computers, electronics, and components with $779.2 million, equipment, tools, and spare parts ($132.3 million) and metals of all kinds ($103 million).

Viet Nam-Philippines trade is forecast to hit about $9 billion in 2025 thanks to favourable trade policies and increasing demand from both countries.

The growth is expected to be fuelled by Viet Nam's increasing efforts to maintain and expand exports of its key export items such as rice and industrial products to the Philippines and the Philippines' continuous imports of technology products and machinery from Viet Nam.  VNS
HCM CITY  While trade between Bangladesh and Viet Nam has seen remarkable growth, it is restricted to a few products and there is huge potential to boost it by diversifying the trade basket, a bilateral networking event heard in HCM City on Wednesday.

The event was attended by a visiting delegation from the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) representing diverse manufacturing and services sectors, but especially agro and food processing, healthcare, construction materials, electronics, garments, IT and Information Technology enabled Services (ITES), polymers and chemicals, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, logistics, and tourism. Dhaka is the Bangladeshi capital.

DCCI president Md. Ashraf Ahmed said: There are huge opportunities for a win-win trade collaboration between the two countries including in hi-tech agriculture, farm mechanisation, value-added agro food processing, aquaculture, dairy and confectionary products, construction materials, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, industrial machinery, light engineering, high-end RMG, electronics, IT/ITES, and fin-tech and halal products.

The two countries products complement each other, he said. Bangladesh could learn from how Viet Nam has been able to sign so many free trade agreements with major economies.

Tourism is a huge strength of Viet Nam. There are immense possibilities in this sector for business cooperation between Bangladesh and Viet Nam.

He also highlighted some other areas where the two countries could work together to advance trade and economic development such as identifying non-tariff barriers and charting remedial measures for trade promotion, starting flights between Dhaka and Ha Noi to facilitate trade and investment, and accelerating tourism and people-to-people contacts.

He urged Vietnamese firms to invest in his country, claiming it provides the most competitive and impressive investment regime in South Asia with wide-ranging fiscal and non-fiscal benefits, and a conducive regulatory ambience for foreign investment.

Vietnamese businesses can consider Bangladesh a gateway to enter and expand to the South Asian market.

In his opening speech, Pham Phu Lu, director of the Investment and Trade Promotion Centre of HCM City (ITPC), said Bangladesh is Viet Nams second biggest trade partner in South Asia.

According to customs statistics, bilateral trade more than quadrupled since 2012 to US$1.05 billion last year.

Viet Nams main exports to Bangladesh are clinker and cement, fibre, textile and apparel, plastic raw materials, raw materials for the textile and garment sector, and leather and footwear.

It imports pharmaceuticals, scrap iron and steel.

Bangladeshi firms have invested a total of $980 million in 20 projects in Viet Nam.

Lu said: Bangladesh is one of Viet Nams important trade partners. The two countries still have immense potential to explore. Viet Nam and Bangladesh have co-operated in many sectors such as IT, textile, halal foods, software services, banking, and tourism.

Lu and Ahmed both hoped that the event would enable businesses from the two sides to find partners and trade and investment opportunities.

The event was organised by the ITPC, the Ministry of Industry and Trades Asia - Africa Market Department and the DCCI.  VNS
Many Vietnamese enterprises are using green transformation as a strategy to raise their competitive advantage. Vietnam News Agency discussed this issue with Dr. Nguyen inh Tho, director of the Institute of Strategy and Policy on Natural Resources and Environment under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

Green and circular economies are an inevitable global trend. What opportunities and challenges does this offer the Vietnamese business community?

The world is facing three global crises: climate change, environmental pollution and biodiversity loss. Therefore, countries around the world are focusing on reducing emissions and environmental pollution to diversify biodiversity and restore ecosystems with an aim to achieve global goals in protecting people, creatures and nature. Global trade regulations are moving towards requiring enterprises to implement green transformation to reduce emissions and environmental pollution.

In 2023, Viet Nam rose to the Top 20 largest economies in the world in terms of import and export. To maintain this position, especially in Viet Nam's key markets such as the US, Europe, Japan and Korea, Viet Nam must comply with world regulations.

Since January 2023, the EU has officially issued regulations requiring listed companies to conduct sustainable development reports. Under this regulation, by June 2024, European countries must incorporate regulations on sustainable development reports into their laws for implementation. Therefore, global financial institutions have also required Viet Nam to have sustainable development reports. In the sustainable development reports, three factors of economy, society and environment are shown in the ESG (Environment - Social - Governance) report of enterprises. If enterprises do not implement these issues, they will not be allowed to participate in global trade and investment.

From January 2023, according to the EUs regulation of CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), four Vietnamese products, including steel, cement, aluminum and fertiliser, are directly affected. When Vietnamese enterprises export to Europe, they must have a report on emission reduction in their production sector. From January 2026, countries wishing to export goods to Europe must buy carbon credits. These are the regulations and requirements for Viet Nam to meet international standards.

In the near future, if Vietnamese enterprises comply with global trade standards, they will continue to have the opportunity to participate in global investment and trade. However, if they do not comply, they will face difficulties, especially when European countries currently consider green standards as number one, quality as number two and price as number three. Therefore, if enterprises do not comply, they will lose orders. Climate-related risks are ranked by financial institutions as the biggest risk and have a direct impact on production of enterprises.

In reality, many regulations and requirements on green development and a circular economy are still quite unfamiliar to Vietnamese enterprises. What should domestic enterprises do?

As most of Vietnamese enterprises are small and medium size, so the green transformation and circular economy will also encounter many difficulties. The transformation is not only the social responsibility of enterprises, but also a business strategy that enterprises must implement in order to achieve the goal of participating in global trade and investment.

To implement this content, financial institutions around the world and major countries have also designed policies to support developing countries. Enterprises need to record carbon emission reductions from the pre-stage of projects to the completion of the projects, so that the efforts of enterprises in green transformation and emission reduction will be recorded. These things will help enterprises form carbon credits. Carbon credits are priced by valuation companies around the world based on the input costs, including corporate social responsibility, improvement of labourers working conditions, reduction of carbon emissions and improvement of living conditions for residents in the production area. Global financial institutions have been designed to have the input costs for green transformation and emission reduction to be fully offset through the sale of these carbon credits.

Therefore, enterprises need to conduct ESG reports, sustainable development reports and emission reduction reports in accordance with global standards to be recognised and recover their investment in the environment protection and emissions reduction. Enterprises need to consider it as an investment, not an expense. If an enterprise does not comply with global regulations, the input costs will not be recovered and it will be a loss for the enterprise.

Currently, popular standards in the world have been converted into Vietnamese standards, making it easy for Vietnamese enterprises to implement. However, it is necessary to have supports from the Government and associations. Besides, enterprises also need to support each other to minimise costs.

How do you assess the awareness of Vietnamese enterprises in green transformation?

The awareness of the Vietnamese business community in implementing emission reduction and impact of climate change on life has increased significantly. However, many domestic enterprises are still doing it in a way that is like doing charity, and are not fully demonstrating the responsibility of enterprises to society. Enterprises also do not have a standard method according to the international reporting standards to perform work and to benefit from their actions.

If businesses comply with the standards and regulations required by the world and developed countries, the input costs of enterprises will become recoverable investments.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Government as well as relevant agencies will make efforts to raise the awareness of enterprises, guide enterprises and associations to have solutions that adapt to new regulations of global trade and investment.  VNS
Alex Reeves - @afreeves23

Getting the opportunity to write for a national newspaper is further than most aspiring writers get, but we seem to live in a place where it feels like anything can happen if you make the right choice on the right day, that feeling gets us out of bed on a morning and keeps many of us around, long after we might have headed home.

Writing about a city and a country you have a deep love affair with is without any hint of sarcasm, a privilege, verging on an honour. Im proud to be doing so and sharing whatever insights on life in this wonderful country I can find the words for.

That being said, finding a new topic of discussion in Expat Corner on a fortnightly basis, even in the most fertile of ground, can be tricky. Theres only so many times we can talk about the traffic, the weather or Anthony Bourdain. We love Viet Nam, temperatures soar and more people than ever think SUVs fit in tiny alleyways.

This week, inspired by a comment from someone who might have actually read a previous article, I decided to dive into some expat/migrant folklore. Keen readers and netizens whove been here over five years will likely remember a short-lived but genuinely amusing publication, known as The Durian - Hanois Smelliest News.

Those familiar with satirical content such as The Onion, Waterford Whispers and The Daily Mash will find much to love in their still active yet archived stories, postulating at parts of life here which we all acknowledge as normal but when viewed from an outside perspective, veer towards the absurd.

Oscar Wilde famously said, "Life is far too important a thing ever to talk seriously about" and his contemporary Mark Twain proposed "The human race has only one really effective weapon and that is laughter. Its often true that the most comedic aspects of our existence can be found in the dance we do each and every day.

The Durian poked fun at daily life, stereotypes and the rich tapestry of Viet Nam, which to outsiders can be made up of a very confusing pattern. It is however important to respect the country in which we are guests and ultimately a combination of both this and the departure of a key writer, de-facto editor of the publication led to an abrupt stop to their satirical operations.

In a fortnight of conversations, I have heard many fascinating theories about why The Durian seemingly expired. Having spoken with the people behind the words, I can confirm that any of the more exotic speculations are wilder than the content of the publication itself. Sometimes things run their course and not every ending is a blockbuster.

The writers behind this witty slice of the expat literary scene are mostly still among us. Their anonymity may add to the mystique but as hopefully their articles get a few more views this week, what I can say for sure is that they enjoyed contributing to the keen readers week just as much as I do here in Expat Corner and their intentions always came from a place of humour, a love for Viet Nam and the adventure that living here can be. VNS
HA NOI  Leaders from various political parties and countries continue to send congratulatory messages to Party General Secretary, President To Lam following his election to the top position in the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV).

President of the Republic of Korea (RoK) Yoon Suk Yeol expressed confidence that under the leadership of the new Party chief, Viet Nam will achieve further development and elevate its international standing. Yoon said he wishes to work closely with Lam to strengthen the two countries comprehensive strategic partnership across all sectors, contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

Nicaraguan President and leader of the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) Daniel Ortega and Nicaraguan Vice President Rosario Murillo congratulated the Vietnamese leader and emphasised their readiness to enhance cooperation between the FSLN and the CPV.

Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas affirmed that the election of To Lam is a clear indication of the CPVs confidence in his leadership, aiming to lead Viet Nam towards new heights of progress and prosperity.

Chairman of the United Russia Party (URP) Dmitry Medvedev expressed trust that with his extensive political experience and high professionalism, General Secretary Lam will effectively contribute to Viet Nam's socio-economic development and independent foreign policy. He also anticipated further strengthening of relations between the URP and the CPV. Meanwhile, S.M. Mironov, Chairman of the A Just Russia (SR) party, praised To Lam as a respected and responsible leader and stressed his wish to continue constructive dialogue between the SR and CPV to support the development of the Viet Nam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership.

Chairman of the Presidium of the Japanese Communist Party (JCP) Central Committee Shii Kazuo said he believes that under the Party General Secretarys leadership, the CPV and Vietnamese people will continue to reap more success in their oi moi cause and that the two parties will strengthen their cooperation and exchanges to contribute to cementing the relations between the two nations.

Chung Eui-yong, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), and Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Co-Chairperson and Special Rapporteur of the ICAPP Standing Committee, expressed their confidence that the Vietnamese leaders 40 years of experience will lead to outstanding achievements. They said they seek to build a closer partnership between ICAPP and the CPV to promote peace and prosperity in the region.

First Secretary of the Communist Party of Belaruss Central Committee Sergei Syrankov said he believes that as Party General Secretary, To Lam will contribute new insights and enrich the theoretical and practical aspects of socialism, supporting the international communist and workers' movement.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Peru Domingo Cabrera Toro praised Lam's remarks that underscore his commitment to strengthening unity and together with the CPV Central Committee and Politburo to lead the Vietnamese Party, people, army towards successful implementation of the goals set by the 13th National Party Congress.

Secretary General Nestor Rego of Spains Galician People's Union expressed confidence that the Party chief will continue the legacy of his predecessors, including the late Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, and lead Viet Nam to future successes. Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Communist Party of Spain (PCE) Enrique Santiago shared his belief that in his new, highly responsible position, Party General Secretary Lam will lead the CPV in continuing to advance Vietnams glorious history and cause of national construction and protection.

First Vice President of the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) Diosdado Cabello Rondon affirmed Lams election as a testament to his exemplary contributions, adding he has confidence in Viet Nam's continued strengthening of defence, security, political stability, and sustainable economic development under the Party General Secretary's leadership.

General Secretary of the Portuguese Communist Party Paolo Raimondo said he believes that the CPV will successfully accomplish the tasks, goals set by the 13th National Party Congress and effectively prepare for the 14th congress, and that Vietnam will continue to develop, realise the aspirations of its people, and advance toward socialism.

The General Secretary of the Sri Lanka People's Liberation Front, head of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Communist Party of Spain Manuel Pineda, Secretary of International Affairs of the Communist Party of the Peoples of Spain Victor M. Lucas, and Secretary of the Sudanese Communist Party Fathi Alfadl also sent congratulatory messages to Party General Secretary and President To Lam.  VNS
HA NOI  The robust Viet Nam-US relationship stems from the legitimate aspirations of their peoples and the realisation of visions, goals, and efforts of their leaders, both historical and contemporary, affirmed Politburo member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of its Commission for Information and Education Nguyen Trong Nghia and US Ambassador Marc Knapper at their meeting in Ha Noi on Wednesday morning.

Nghia asked his guest to convey gratitude to US President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, and officials of the US embassy and Consulate General for their deep condolences following the recent passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. This gesture not only provided significant encouragement but also exemplified the increasingly positive development of the countries comprehensive strategic partnership.

He recalled the cooperative achievements between the sides across various fields, especially since the historic visit by the late leader to the US in July 2015 and US President Joe Biden's visit to Viet Nam in September 2023.

The official urged the US to continue supporting Viet Nam in training high-quality human resources in semiconductor technology and to facilitate cooperation between Vietnamese and US universities, technological institutes, and commercial organisations, including the Viet Nam National Innovation Center.

Emphasising that the US is a partner of strategic importance, Nghia noted the Viet Nam-US relations have entered a new, positive, and promising chapter. He expressed his hope that the diplomat and the embassy would continue to serve as a bridge to promote the relationship through the party channel and enhance the sides mutual understanding and trust, thereby fostering stable, substantive, and deeper bilateral relations based on mutual respect for each other's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political system.

For his part, Knapper stated that the agencies and ministries of both nations are closely collaborating to realise their leaders joint declaration on upgrading the Viet Nam-US relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership and an associated implementation plan.

The diplomat expressed his wish for increased activities that would deepen their results and further promote areas with substantial cooperation potential.

Host and guest agreed that 2025 will be a significant year marking the 50th anniversary of Viet Nam's national reunification and the 30th anniversary of the normalisation of the Viet Nam-US relations. This milestone offers an opportunity for both countries to acknowledge the substantial progress made from history to present and towards the future.

The bilateral relationship will continue to drive prosperity and security in one of the world's most critical regions, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation, and sustainable development, they affirmed.  VNS
HA NOI  The Viet Nam Department of Peacekeeping Operations (VDPO) under the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday inaugurated a pre-deployment training and field exercise course for Engineering Unit Rotation 3 and Level 2 Field Hospital Rotation 6, who will participate in United Nations peacekeeping operations in 2024.

The training and exercise, led by Major General Pham Manh Thang, the VDPOs director, aims to equip personnel from both units with fundamental knowledge of UN peacekeeping operations, essential skills for mission execution and to enhance their capabilities according to standard operational procedures. It will also update them on the operational area and prepare them comprehensively for deployment.

This course also provides an opportunity to assess the overall capabilities of Engineering Unit Rotation 3 and Level 2 Field Hospital Rotation 6 to ensure they meet the requirements for their missions before deploying to the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) and the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Running from August 1 to September 14, the training and exercise will involve 198 trainees from Engineering Unit Rotation 3 and 70 trainees from Level 2 Field Hospital Rotation 6, along with instructors and training staff from various military units.

Notably, this session will include instructions from a technical expert from the European Union and an observation and support team from the United Kingdom.

The training and exercise are divided into five periods, including training based on UN materials, training for specific mission tasks at the mission site, training on the regulations, policies and procedures of the Viet Nam People's Army, supplementary skills training for various units and field exercises.

Participants will be updated on general knowledge of UN peacekeeping operations and Viet Nam's contributions to these efforts, including peace and security activities, legal bases, operational mechanisms and unified actions within peacekeeping. They will also learn about the UN Security Councils mandates and the missions partner organisations.

In the second period, participants will gain insights into the UN Security Councils mandates, peacebuilding activities, human rights protection, women, peace and security issues, civilian protection, preventing sexual violence and exploitation in conflicts and child protection.

The third period will focus on UN peacekeeping regulations, with instructors covering topics such as core values, competencies, ethics and discipline of UN personnel, respecting diversity in peacekeeping operations, preventing exploitation and sexual abuse, protecting natural resources and the environment, ensuring security and safety for UN personnel, personal security awareness, medical care for UN staff, stress management and frontline medical support.

During the field exercise period, Engineering Unit Rotation 3 will conduct a command and staff exercise with partial live drills. Level 2 Field Hospital Rotation 6 will perform a functional exercise of its field hospital operations using a scenario-based situation.

Lieutenant Colonel Fabien Evesque, EU technical expert at the VDPO, affirmed that the training and exercise will provide the essential knowledge needed for effective participation in UN peacekeeping operations.

Trainees will learn about the UN, its operational mechanisms and relevant organisations and individuals. They will also explore various missions and tasks in peacekeeping, with a particular focus on understanding the values, principles and codes of conduct expected of UN representatives, he added.

To ensure the highest quality and effectiveness of the training and exercise, Thang asked instructors to update and review new knowledge and changes in mission protocols, conduct practical training closely aligned with mission requirements and provide detailed feedback and assessments after each lesson for each trainee and unit.  VNS
HA NOI  Leaders of foreign Parties and countries have continued to send congratulations to President To Lam on the occasion of his election as General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) Central Committee.

In his congratulatory letter, Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong expressed his belief that the Viet Nam-Singapore relationship will be further enhanced under Lams leadership.

Lee Hsien Loong, Secretary-General of the People's Action Party (PAP) of Singapore, also affirmed that the country always stands ready to work together with Viet Nam to tap economic opportunities and strategies in the region, while expanding and deepening the relations between the two Parties, and advancing the Viet Nam-Singapore ties to a new height.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he believes that under Lams sound leadership, Viet Nam will make more progress, and noted his hope for closer cooperation with the Vietnamese leader to enhance the relations between the two countries, towards a comprehensive strategic partnership, for the sake of their people.

Sharing the belief in Lams leadership, Indian President Droupadi Murmu expressed his hope that the Viet Nam-India comprehensive strategic partnership will grow further on the basis of mutual trust and understanding, as well as multilateral cooperation.

The General Secretary of the Communist Party of India has also sent his congratulations to the Vietnamese leader on this occasion.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who is also the leader of the ruling Labour Party, stressed that Viet Nam and Australia are sustainable friends, and their relationship is based on the close ties between their people as well as their strategic political trust.

The Communist Party USA emphasised Party General Secretary and President Lams profound understanding of the principles of Marxism-Leninism, and the policies of the CPV.

President of the Communist Party of Brazil Luciana Santos lauded the Vietnamese leaders devotion to bolstering renewal and socialism building in the Southeast Asian nation.

Chairman of the Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB) Luciana Santos spoke highly of the new Vietnamese Party chief's determination to devote himself to the cause of renewal and socialism building in Viet Nam. The Workers' Party of Brazil also wished that in his new position, Lam will lead the CPV to greater achievements.

Other well-wishers included the President and the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Chile, the President of the Fatherland for All Party of the Dominican Republic, and various peoples associations. VNS
VIENTIANE  Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has hailed the collaboration between the Viet Nam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) and the Lao ministries and agencies, especially the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications.

During a reception in Vientiane on Wednesday for VAST President Chau Van Minh, Siphandone underscored the Lao Governments commitment to advancing sci-tech capabilities.

He suggested ongoing cooperation in quality human resources training and sharing sci-tech expertise, with a focus on dispatching VAST experts to Laos to support areas of mutual interest.

Minh briefed the PM on the outcomes of his working session with the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications. Key achievements included the third bilateral meeting, which concentrated on the two initiatives endorsed by both governments during the 46th meeting of the Viet Nam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee for Bilateral Cooperation. These initiatives encompass the development of a big data centre to facilitate digital transformation and the fourth industrial revolution, as well as the establishment of a disaster and earthquake warning centre in Laos.

He also sought the Lao PM's continued support to bolster cooperation between VAST and Lao research and training units.

Additionally, the VAST delegation and the Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce explored the scientific foundation and development potential of several key areas, including the establishment of a food safety lab in Laos, the development of pharmaceutical products, renewable energy, bio-products, and bio-chemicals in agriculture and healthcare. The discussions also delved into the potential of geological and mineral resources and mining projects. VNS
HA NOI - More than 16 per cent of street food establishments which were inspected in Ha Noi violated food safety regulations, according to the citys Food Safety Department.

Since early this year, the department has conducted the safety inspections at 5,820 street food establishments including facilities at festivals, fairs, exhibitions and tourist areas, including street vendors.

About 83.7 percent of the establishments met the safety standards, said the department.

The municipal Department of Health has provided hotline numbers (0823.88.9095, 0922.55.9095) so that residents can report food safety violations to the Food Safety Department.

Local authorities also held inspections to trace the food origin at 15 kitchens of primary schools and 10 food production facilities, processing and trading establishments which provide ingredients for schools across 15 districts and towns.

From the 324 supervised establishments, 298 met the requirements.

The city also managed food safety at big parties at 440 communes and wards of 20 districts and towns.

The inspection teams instructed local people to follow food safety regulations at big family parties to ensure that one hundred per cent of households signed commitments to ensure food safety.

Local authorities have piloted the model of food safety control for catering services and street food around school gates in Trang Tien and Hang Trong wards, Hoan Kiem District where 21 restaurants, three hotels, 52 food stalls, 24 street food establishments and five food establishments are located.

Of these, 67 out of 73 establishments have valid certificates of establishments meeting food safety conditions.

According to the citys Steering Committee against Smuggling, Counterfeit Goods and Trade Fraud, transporting and trading goods of unknown origin and quality are still ongoing.

Low-quality foods include rice flakes, snacks, sausages, chicken wings, frozen food and animal organs. Traders and smugglers changed labels or committed other fraudulent acts to extend expiry dates. VNS
HA NOI  Many Vietnamese women have been rescued from human trafficking networks in Bokeo Province in Laos over the past few years.

The Ha Tinh Border Guard, working closely with the Blue Dragon Organisation and Laotian provincial governments, spearheaded the operations.

Hanh and Lien, two of the rescued victims, were just 13 when their lives took a dark turn. Born into a poor family in Lao Cai Province, they were lured away in 2020 by a well-dressed woman who offered them gifts and promised them a fun-filled trip to Lao Cai City.

Instead, they were taken across the border into China, where they were locked in a small room for six days before being transported to Myanmar. The nightmare began when they were forced into sex exploitation, working day and night without pay. Resistance meant brutal beatings.

"Every time I was tortured to exhaustion, I would take a razor blade and cut my arm", said Lien, tears welling up. "If it still hurt, I knew I was alive, I knew there was still a way home."

Sold through three countries, from China to Myanmar, then to Bokeo in Laos, the girls were finally rescued in May 2024. Setting foot at Cau Treo Border Gate to return home, they were filled with joy as their lives turned a new page.

Ngan is another victim whose story is one of abduction, forced labour and resilience.

Two years ago, while out with a friend in HCM City, she was abducted by a group of strangers, blindfolded and taken to Cambodia where she was forced into sex exploitation.

Despite her family's relentless efforts to find her, she was sold across three countries  Cambodia, Myanmar, and finally Laos. Each day felt like an eternity, filled with despair and longing for home.

When an opportunity arose, she sent a plea for help to the Ha Tinh Border Guard Command. Her message was received, and her path home was finally paved. She was rescued in April 2024.

"Being able to return home has given my life new meaning," said Ngan. "Thinking back to the years of torture and exploitation sends shivers down my spine."

Khanh, a 30-year-old woman from Ben Tre Province, was lured by a message she saw online.

It read: "Sitting at home typing on the computer, you can earn VN50 million (US$2,000) monthly."

She fell prey to such a scheme in 2019.

Promised a lucrative job abroad, she was instead trafficked into China, and then Laos, where she was trained in scamming, becoming a tool for her captors.

Despite being provided with necessities, her life was far from comfortable.

"I was beaten and forced to work between 14 to 20 hours a day, with no pay," Khanh recalled. "Resistance only led to more severe punishment, including electric shocks."

Escape attempts proved futile. The heavily guarded compound, with its omnipresent surveillance cameras, made leaving impossible.

To survive, she joined the ranks of online scammers. Her jobs involved creating fake accounts, luring in targets, and coercing them into depositing money into online gambling apps.

Khanh was fortunate to be rescued and returned home, unlike many others who have tried to escape but failed to make it to Viet Nam.

"There are victims who escaped, but halfway through their journey, they were caught again and taken back to Bokeo," a border guard officer revealed. "We are still trying to locate them, but there is no information yet."

Trafficking rings in Bokeo are run by heavily armed criminals. Their network of fortified compounds is virtually inaccessible to outsiders.

Bokeo's unique legal landscape further hinders authorities' ability to conduct investigations. With scores of compounds in the region, locating and rescuing victims is a daunting task.

Rescuing victims from Bokeo is a high-stakes endeavour, demanding quick thinking, skill and unwavering courage. According to border officials, rescue operations often involve undercover infiltration to the compounds, where they gather crucial intelligence while facing immense danger.

Nguyen Phi Hung, a seasoned soldier of the Ha Tinh Border Guard, revealed that these missions can stretch for weeks, requiring immense patience and caution.

"Every rescue is a victory," he said, "but the fight is far from over."

Many victims remain trapped, and some are even recaptured before reaching safety.

In May, a joint operation led to the dismantling of a major trafficking ring in Bokeo, rescuing 36 Vietnamese citizens. The investigation exposed the ringleaders' ties to a Chinese criminal organisation that lured victims with false job promises.

Despite this success, the scale of the problem remains significant. Ha Tinh Border Guard statistics indicate that 93 victims have been rescued since 2023, with a staggering 75 rescued from Bokeo in 2024, the highest number in recent years.

The fight against human trafficking in this notorious region continues, with officers like Hung risking their lives to bring hope to those trapped in the shadows.  VNS
HCM City - A recent study by the Centre for Disease Control of HCM City has found the city has a high rate of children with vision problems due to a number of factors, but mainly bad habits.

Over 50 per cent of school-age children suffer from refractive errors, which cause blurred vision.

The study, titled The Status of Common School Diseases and Related Factors in the 2023-2024 Academic Year in HCM City, polled 1,230 students from preschool to high school at eight randomly selected schools.

The HCM City Eye Hospital gets an average of over 500 child patients per day.

Many of these child patients suffer from eye strain and blurry vision.

Dr Le Thi Kim Chi, deputy head of the hospitals refractive department, told Tuoi Tre newspaper that the occurrence of refractive errors is particularly high, especially among school-age children.

While the exact causes of refractive errors are not clearly known, they are associated with genetic factors, extensive use of electronic devices, poor posture, and intensive studying.

Without corrective lenses, children with refractive errors experience significant blurriness, which affects their academic performance and daily activities.

Properly prescribed glasses can manage school-related myopia and enable clear vision, but if not detected early, complications such as amblyopia, strabismus, retinal degeneration, and retinal detachment could occur.

Dr Nguyen Thi Bach Tuyet, an ophthalmologist at Paediatrics Hospital 2, also blamed heavy academic loads, excessive gaming and nutritional deficiencies, particularly of some essential nutrients such as vitamin A, omega-3, vitamin C, and calcium.

Chi said to prevent and slow the progression of refractive errors, parents should ensure children maintain a proper sitting posture while studying, use appropriately sized chairs and tables, keep books at a suitable distance from the eyes, and have adequate lighting.

They should also watch out for signs of refractive errors in their children to detect and address them promptly, she said.

In urban areas, where playgrounds are scarce, parents need to motivate their children to engage in outdoor activities to reduce their use of electronic devices.

Schools should be equipped with suitable tables and chairs and proper lighting, and infirmaries should include eye charts for students to check their vision under teacher guidance, she added.

Viet Nam has around five million children with refractive errors, with myopia accounting for 40 per cent.

The problem is most prevalent in urban areas. - VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Defence Minister Sen. Lieut. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien visited and presented gifts to those staying at the Ha Noi centre for caring, nurturing and treating victims of Agent Orange (AO)/dioxin in Ba Vi suburban district on August 6, on the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of the Day for AO/dioxin Victims (August 10).

Also attending the event were Lieut. Gen. Nguyen Huu Chinh, Chairman of the Viet Nam Association for Victims of AO/Dioxin, and US Ambassador to Marc Knapper.

Chien, who is also head of the standing board of the National Steering Committee on Overcoming Post-War Unexploded Ordnance and Toxic Chemical Consequences, highly valued the efforts by the centres leaders and staff, saying he hopes that they will overcome all difficulties and better the work of caring for dioxin victims.

He affirmed that over the past time, the implementation of policies and the improvement of health care and living conditions for these victims have received due attention from the Party, State, Government, ministries, and local authorities, as well as support from both domestic citizens and international friends. These works have seen a lot of commendable improvements.

The official requested the steering committee to work closely and effectively with relevant agencies and units to ensure timely and increasingly practical support for AO victims. He also proposed the US, especially the US Agency for International Development (USAID), make its utmost efforts alongside Viet Nam to effectively implement projects that improve the quality of life for these victims.

Ambassador Marc Knapper emphasised that co-operation in addressing post-war consequences is one of the basic elements for the US and Viet Nam to build trust, demonstrate their commitments, and advance their bilateral relationship to become a comprehensive strategic partnership as it is today.

He expressed his belief that with efforts for the common interests, the two countries will continue to overcome the history and build a better future for the victims of Agent Orange/dioxin.

Viet Nam has about 4.8 million people exposed to AO/dioxin, of them about 3.2 million victims, living in all provinces and cities.  VNS
HCM CITY  A 21-year-old Vietnamese woman has been sentenced to nine years in prison for kidnapping two young girls, aged three and seven, for pornographic filming for money.

The Family and Juvenile Court of HCM City Peoples Court on Wednesday sentenced Pham Huynh Nhat Vi to three years and six months for abusing individuals under 16 for pornographic purposes, and five years and six months for their abduction.

In addition, the woman from the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta province of Tien Giang was ordered to pay VN80 million (US$3,200) in compensation to the victims.

The trial was held privately to protect the victims identities.

The court found that Vi, who met a foreign man named Richard through a dating app back in October 2023, was persuaded by him to lure girls aged six to twelve for pornographic filming for money.

After receiving US$500 from the man in early April, Vi enticed the minors with money and food, right at the popular pedestrian street Nguyen Hue in HCM City, ultimately leading them to an apartment rented by Richard where she recorded twelve pornographic videos for him over several days.

The police rescued the girls on April 9.

Richard, who remains unidentified and resides in the US, has been identified as the mastermind of the operation.

The HCM City Police have requested judicial assistance from the US Department of Justice for further investigation.

The two girls are currently in safe and stable condition, according to local authorities.  VNS
HA NOI  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has warned Vietnamese citizens not to travel to Bangladesh at this time if it is not necessary.

Protests in Bangladesh have become complicated in recent days, and are a source of insecurity for Vietnamese citizens in the South Asian country, the ministry said.

Vietnamese citizens in Bangladesh must strengthen measures to protect themselves and their families and avoid traveling to crowded areas where protests are likely to occur, it requested.

Citizens are also recommended to follow information from local authorities and warnings from the Consular Department under the MoFA or the Vietnamese Embassy in Bangladesh.

For assistance, Vietnamese should contact the following emergency hotlines: the Vietnamese Embassy in Bangladesh: +880 1711595379; or the citizen protection hotline of the Consular Department: +84 981 84 84 84.  VNS
HA NOI  To have the European Commission (EC)s yellow card removed for Vietnamese seafood, relevant agencies and localities must handle vessels with disconnected vessel monitoring systems (VMS), Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang said on Wednesday.

In his remarks at a meeting with the centre for monitoring fishing vessels under the Directorate of Fisheries of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), Deputy PM Quang requested measures to detect and strictly handle such violating vessels before the EC's inspection team comes to Viet Nam to examine its efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

He assigned the MARD to coordinate with other ministries, sectors, and units in addressing technical issues, provide technical guidance to localities, and exchange relevant data and information with the Ministry of Defence.

The Ministry of Information and Communications was asked to ensure that units and enterprises do not stop satellite-based connectivity with fishing vessels, while coordinating with the MARD to address technical issues.

The Ministry of Public Security is responsible for issuing a directive for the police of provinces and cities nationwide to address connection loss issues in accordance with Resolution 04/2024/NQ-HTP of the council of judges of the Supreme People's Court.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence was demanded to direct border guards to closely monitor fishing vessels departing and arriving at ports.

From now until the EC team's visit, the Government will send task forces to inspect measures against IUU fishing, the Deputy PM said.

According to General Director of the Directorate of Fisheries Tran inh Luan, up to 98.43 percent of fishing vessels have been equipped with the VMS devices. Localities have basically located the ships with disconnected systems.  VNS
Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) submitted a report to the Ministry of Transport (MoT) on July 29, detailing the progress of construction and proposed modifications to the Long Thanh International Airport project.

ACV proposed to start the construction of Runway 2 during the first phase and to add the grading work for the T3 passenger terminal area. The proposal is based on ACVs calculations for passenger demand at Terminal 1 with a capacity of 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo per year.

Artistic impression of the completed Long Thanh International Airport

According to ACV, the construction of Runway 1 is progressing several months ahead of schedule, with technical operations expected to be completed before the end of April next year. So far, the entire substructure of the runway has been fully completed.

Additionally, the corporation considers two runways to be crucial for a large-capacity airport. Under the current conditions, ACV estimates that the construction of Runway 2 will take about 1618 months.

ACV also revealed that Terminal 3 will be constructed on the same side as Terminal 1, meaning grading of the T3 area will be necessary to avoid dust and pollution during the operation of the first terminal.

The Long Thanh project is set to cover 5,000 hectares with an estimated total investment of $13.74 billion, with construction divided into three phases.

In the first phase, Long Thanh will develop one runway, a passenger terminal, and supporting facilities, with an expected completion date in 2026. To date, key elements including the passenger terminal, connecting roads, runway, taxiways, and control tower have been built, with progress ahead of schedule so far.

ACV secures $1.8 billion in syndicated loans for Long Thanh Airport, ensuring on-schedule completion by 2026 Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) has secured a $1.8 billion loan from three state-owned banks over a 20-year term to finance the construction of Long Thanh International Airport.

Contractor winning Long Thanh airports 1.45-billion-USD bidding package announced The Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) on August 24 announced that the Vietur consortium had won the bidding package worth 35 trillion VND (1.45 billion USD) to build a terminal of the Long Thanh airport project in the southern province of Dong Nai.
Singapore and Vietnam agreed in 2023 to upgrade their strategic partnership, established in 2013, to a comprehensive strategic partnership (CSP), and both sides are working hard to flesh out many new areas of cooperation that will make this upgrade both substantive and substantial in the years to come.

Pang Te Cheng, consul-general of Singapore in Ho Chi Minh City

At the same time, free trade agreements (FTAs) like the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA), Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, play a role in enhancing economic cooperation between Vietnam and Singapore. These agreements promote trade liberalisation, reduce tariffs, and create a favourable business environment for companies operating in both countries.

For example, in 2023, bilateral trade between the two nations reached approximately $21 billion, almost double the figures from a decade ago, demonstrating the effectiveness of AFTA in facilitating trade.

These FTAs serve to emphasise the benefits of an open, rules-based international trading system, amidst increasing trade protectionism by the very major trading nations that had established the system in the first place. The economic cooperation between Vietnam and Singapore has traditionally been underpinned by the Singapore-Vietnam Connectivity Framework Agreement (CFA). First launched in 2006, the CFA has covered collaboration across the six pillars: education and training; finance; IT and telecommunications; investment; trade and services; and transportation.

The CFA has strengthened economic cooperation across many sectors and facilitated smoother business operations for companies in both countries. For example, Singapore has been among Vietnams top three investors for more than 20 years. The top sectors for Singapores investments are in financial and insurance services, manufacturing, real estate activities, and wholesale and retail.

As of May, Singapore has cumulatively invested about $75 billion in Vietnam, which makes Singapore the second-largest investor. In terms of flow, Singapore has been Vietnams largest investor since 2020.

According to the Ministry of Planning and Investments Foreign Trade Agency, for the period January to July 2024, Singapore is the largest investor among 91 countries and territories, registering investment of $6.52 billion - more than one-third of the registered foreign direct investment for the period. Bilateral trade has also grown steadily over the past decade. In 2023, Vietnam was Singapores 11th largest trading partner.

In August 2023, the CFA was further expanded to include cooperation in new and emerging areas of energy, sustainability, and innovation.

A comprehensive outlook

Even as Vietnam and Singapore work towards finalising the CSP, cooperation in new sectors identified has continued apace. The enhanced CFA will be one building block towards the CSP, as will the Green-Digital Economic Partnership MoU signed when Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh made a visit to Singapore in February 2023.

Although discussions are still ongoing, possible further cooperation can be envisaged in several areas.

Green technologies: Firstly, with a shared commitment to sustainability and net-zero carbon emissions, Vietnam and Singapore can collaborate on green technologies and renewable energy projects.

Singapores expertise in urban planning and sustainable infrastructure can support Vietnam in its efforts to develop environmentally friendly cities and reduce carbon emissions. Studies are underway on the feasibility of Singapore importing green energy from Vietnam, e.g., from wind farms in southern Vietnam and from green hydrogen/ammonia.

Innovation collaboration: Both countries recognise the importance of technology and innovation in driving economic growth. Joint research and development initiatives in areas such as smart cities, e-governance, renewable energy, fintech, AI, biotechnology, and semiconductors will enhance both countries competitiveness in the global market.

In 2022, the Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry signed an MoU with Vietnams National Innovation Center. The work group seeks to promote innovation cooperation among the public, private sectors, and institutes of higher learning between both countries.

Digital transformation: Given Vietnams interest in innovation, digital transformation, and digital economy, possible areas of cooperation between governments include digital connectivity, cross-border data, cybersecurity, and e-government tools.

In 2022, National Computer Systems announced its partnership with the Vietnams IT giant FPT to expand its service delivery capacity in the market and is expected to hire more than 3,000 pax by 2025. Just last month, a business-matching event was held in Ho Chi Minh City on AI. On the financial front, banks on both sides are also exploring the implementation of cross-border QR code payment connectivity, to facilitate tourist payments.

Economic resilience: The recent pandemic has highlighted the need for economic resilience and diversification. Vietnam and Singapore can build more robust supply chains and reduce dependency on external markets. This collaboration will be crucial in navigating future economic uncertainties.

For example, both countries are looking into the export of frozen and heat-processed poultry products to Singapore and beyond, as well as the sale of processed meat from Singapore to Vietnam.

Cultural exchanges: Strengthening cultural exchange and people-to-people ties will be essential for fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Initiatives that promote educational exchanges, tourism, and cultural programmes will contribute to building a deeper connection between the two nations.

Education development: Education is a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. By enhancing educational exchanges and collaboration between schools and institutes of higher learning, both countries can better equip their workforces to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global economy.

An existing education MoU, renewed in 2023, will provide more linkages between Singaporean and Vietnamese schools through the School Twinning Programme and internships, etc. Institutes of the higher learning from both countries have also signed MoUs to promote staff and student exchanges, training, and internships, including technical, vocational education and life-long learning.

Enhanced political dialogue: The CSP will facilitate more frequent and high-level political dialogues, allowing both countries to jointly address regional and global challenges. The annual meetings between the prime ministers will begin in 2024, which also provide high-level oversight and direction for bilateral cooperation, including timely implementation of the CSP.

Regional cooperation: Both countries are committed to maintaining ASEANs centrality in regional affairs, which in turn hinges on ASEANs autonomy, credibility, and cohesion, and the consolidation of ASEANs relationships with key dialogue partners. By working together, Vietnam and Singapore can help shape ASEANs economic agenda, promote regional integration, implement the vision under the ASEAN Outlook for the Indo-Pacific, and maintain regional stability and security.

Singapore and Vietnam will cooperate even closer on trade arrangements, including new mechanisms like the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. In fact, at a June meeting in Singapore on the framework, Singapore, Vietnam, and the US agreed to form a joint working group to strengthen investment in renewable energy projects in the region as well as study the development of a regional subsea cable network to facilitate cross-border electricity trade.

Towards the next stage

Twenty years ago, when I started work in our embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam was regarded as a peaceful land that will attract birds to nest. Today, I am thrilled to see that Vietnam has progressed well. GDP per capita has almost quadrupled since 2010, and registered foreign investment has ballooned from below $16 billion to $36 billion. Yet Singapore remains the largest investor in terms of flow.

This, to me, is an anomaly given the small absolute size of Singapores economy. Vietnams ambition should be much higher  to have the big players like the US, Japan, South Korea, or China become the top investors, as they can invest many times more than Singapore.

Having made substantial progress, the next stage of Vietnams development can be expected to be more challenging, and conditions must be very attractive to entice the biggest and most advanced players. I believe Singapore can play a part. But Singapore is a small country and has its resource constraints.

Under the CSP, a suitable pilot project can perhaps be identified, to use the Singapore experience as a reference but adapted to Vietnams unique conditions, culture, environment, and stage of development. Novel policies can be piloted; lessons learnt used to adjust pragmatically along the way, with a view of eventually radiating to other parts of the country. Such cooperation will engender deeper cooperation between Singapore and Vietnam for many years to come, but will require sustained political support.

Healthcare groups bring expertise and innovation Vietnams burgeoning healthcare market remaining a bright spot for Singaporean companies and private equity funds has spurred a flurry of investments and partnerships involving Singaporean investors.

Singaporean M&As hold wide promise Singapore dealmakers continue to set sights on dealmaking in Vietnam, with transactions in fields ranging from renewable energy to real estate.

Singapore to revitalise stock market A newly-established review group with representatives from both the private and public sectors will propose measures to revitalise Singapores struggling stock market.

Singapore launches market alliance to facilitate carbon credit trade The Singapore Carbon Market Alliance (SCMA) was launched recently, serving as a national platform that will help connect developers of carbon credit projects with potential buyers.

Vietnam and Singapore ink MoU to promote development of stock markets The Singapore Exchange signs a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Vietnam Exchange to boost the development of Singaporean and Vietnamese stock markets.
Foreign investors predicted to focus more on ASEAN, Illustrative photo (Photo: VNA)

Bangkok  Foreign direct investment (FDI) in ASEAN, including Thailand, will increase thanks to the global trend of relocating manufacturing bases amid heightened US-China trade tensions, according CIMB Thai (CIMBT).

Wut Thanittiraporn, head of corporate and transactional banking at the Thai bank, said that with the global shift in manufacturing, ASEAN countries have emerged as prime destinations for both direct and indirect foreign investment.

He noted CIMBT, as a regional financial institution network, is actively engaging with several large corporate companies interested in investing in Thailand.

Corporate customers, including local, regional, and international companies, typically collaborate with Malaysia-based CIMB Group for their regional business expansion, encompassing both direct and indirect investment.

Wut stressed that the trend of manufacturing relocation and the high growth potential of ASEAN economies are expected to create significant opportunities for both outbound and inbound investments across the region.

In Thailand, potential industries include tourism, health care, logistics, and data centres. Both foreign and large Thai corporations see opportunities for mergers and acquisitions in regional markets, with portfolio investment being a key strategy for local companies seeking investment returns in overseas markets.

Despite Thailand's GDP growth being lower than its regional peers, the country remains attractive for FDI as foreign investors use Thailand as a production base for re-exports, Wut said.

According to the CIMBT Research Centre, global FDI declined to 1.3 trillion USD in 2023, representing a year-on-year decrease of 2 per cent due to the worldwide economic slowdown and increased geopolitical tensions. However, FDI channeled into ASEAN rose to 226 billion USD, up 1 per cent year on year.

Singapore ranks first in ASEAN for attracting FDI since the start of the year, followed by Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. This indicates a continued shift of production bases to regional countries.

VIPF 2024: Going green for new investment waves The Vietnam Industrial Property Forum (VIPF) 2024, organised by Vietnam Investment Review in coordination with the Vietnam Industrial Real Estate Association, is taking place in Ho Chi Minh City from July 30 with the theme Going green for new investment waves.

Quang Ninh reaffirms role as national hub for FDI In the first seven months of 2024, Quang Ninh, a coastal province in Vietnam's northeast region, ranked second nationwide in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), with over $1.56 billion in registered foreign direct investment, accounting for 8.7 per cent of the total registered investment capital.

Nam Dinh Vu Industrial Park gathers advantages for FDI Vietnam is facing the fourth wave of FDI into high-tech sectors, promoting the development of green industrial parks (IPs). Following that trend, Nam Dinh Vu IP has gathered all the advantages to welcome FDI investors.

Industrial property ready for welcoming high-tech FDI wave The industrial property sector, particularly Soilbuild, is enhancing its factories and services to draw in foreign direct investment (FDI) in high technologies
Under the auspices of the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the New Turing Institute (NTI), the Rethink Healthcare Foundation (RHF), Fulbright University, and the National Innovation Centre (NIC) are co-hosting the 2024 GenAI Summit in Ho Chi Minh City on August 18. The conference promises to showcase the latest advancements in Generative AI technology.

"This conference reflects NICs strong commitment to promoting the AI ecosystem in Vietnam, supporting startups to seize opportunities in the AI era. The event promises to be a groundbreaking scientific and technological innovation conference, focusing on significant advancements in GenAI," said Vu Quoc Huy, director of NIC

Vietnam is collaborating with major global technology corporations, particularly from the United States, such as NVIDIA, Google, and Meta, to develop its innovation ecosystem, especially in strategic and potential sectors like AI and semiconductors.

This is the first time the GenAI Summit will be held in Vietnam, signalling the trust being shown in the countrys innovation ecosystem and its potential to become a regional technology hub.

Luong Minh Thang, co-founder of Google Deepmind, said, "This is the most anticipated GenAI conference to date, and I am thrilled it will take place in Vietnam. Technology enthusiasts should not miss this opportunity."

The conference will focus on three main themes, including 'Foundation Models of GenAI', 'Practical Applications of GenAI', and 'Opportunities for Vietnam'.

In the 'Foundation Models of GenAI' session, industry experts will delve into advanced technologies driving the development of Large Language Models. The 'Practical Applications of GenAI' session will see business leaders discuss the transformative potential and applications of GenAI, highlighting its role as a global technology trend and a new economic growth driver for Vietnam. The 'Opportunities for Vietnam' panel will feature investors and AI business leaders sharing their perspectives on the opportunities and challenges Vietnam faces to become a major AI hub in the region.

The presence of Jeff Dean, Googles chief scientist and co-founder of Google Brain, Google Translate, Gemini, and many products that have helped Google dominate the global tech industry, will bring invaluable insights and profound perspectives on the future of AI.

Wendy Nguyen, president of RHF, said, "I am looking forward to bringing Jeff Dean and other world-renowned scientists to Vietnam. This moment will greatly contribute to the nurturing of young talent in Vietnam, not just in AI but also in thinking, problem-solving, leadership skills, and create relentless enthusiasm for creating and innovating for humanity."

The conference is expected to attract over 1,000 attendees, including experts shaping the future of AI. Other notable participants include Le Viet Quoc, Google distinguished researcher, Vu Duy Thuc, founder and CEO of OhmniLabs, Van Dinh Hong Vu, CEO of Elsa Speak, Nguyen Thuy Anh, CEO of RHF, Po-Shen Loh, professor of Mathematics at Carnegie Mellon University, Diyi Yang, recipient of the 2024 Sloan Research Fellowship, Yi Tay, chief scientist at Reka AI, and Steven Truong Quoc Hung, CEO of VinBrain.

In addition to providing academic content and showcasing the latest technology trends, the conference will serve as a bridge to connect businesses, investment funds, with the AI research and application community, offering diverse perspectives and displaying exemplary AI products from Vietnamese startups.

GenAI Summit is an annual event organised by NTI since 2018 to create a platform aimed at nurturing and inspiring the next generation of AI talent in Southeast Asia and beyond.

After many successful years, the summit has become a significant and eagerly anticipated scientific and technological event in Southeast Asia. The resounding success of last year's event, with over 3,600 participants, both in-person and online, featuring more than 100 companies and multinational corporations, and renowned speakers like Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and Christopher Manning, director of the Stanford AI Laboratory, proved the undeniable appeal of the summit.

Vietnam one of fastest-growing e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia Vietnam is one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia, with gross merchandise value (GMV) increases of 52.9 per cent on-year, according to a report by Momentum Works.

Vietnam to remain among fastest-growing countries in Southeast Asia Vietnam is forecast to post breakout growth as the fastest-growing economy in Southeast Asia in the next decade.
John Lee, Hong Kong chief executive

In addition to financial centre development, Lee aims to enhance cooperation with Vietnam in trade, investment, finance, banking, tourism, aviation, and emerging sectors such as innovation and technology, sustainable development, and green finance.

Recognising Vietnam as a rapidly rising economic star in Asia, Lee believed its booming economy will provide ample opportunities for Hong Kong companies to expand.

"Also, as Vietnamese companies seek international expansion, Hong Kong serves as an ideal listing destination and a gateway to investors in mainland China, and globally," Lee said.

Bonnie Y Chan, CEO of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX), said, "Hong Kong boasts a stock market capitalisation of $4 trillion with over 2,000 listed companies. This robust financial market presents significant collaboration opportunities with Ho Chi Minh City."

Chan also emphasised the potential for sharing expertise, noting that HKEX has a longer operational history and a more diverse product portfolio than Ho Chi Minh City's stock exchange.

She stressed that while regional exchanges might compete for investors, collaboration can attract more global investors to Asia, leading to increased investment inflows and mutual benefits.

Chan noted that investors from Hong Kong, mainland China, and the international community are eager to invest in Vietnam.

"Mainland companies looking to establish bases outside China find Vietnam attractive and popular within the 'China+1' strategy," she said.

Chan also highlighted the importance of signing MOUs with regional exchanges to promote talent and knowledge exchange, further enhancing collaboration and market growth.

"You might wonder why we would share our knowledge if we are competitors. While we do compete for investors, we believe that if all regional exchanges collaborate, we can entice more global attention to Southeast Asia, and the broader region. Increased interest in Asia will lead to more investment inflows, benefiting everyone. Inter-regional capital flows can enhance overall market growth," she added.

In a meeting with Lee and Hong Kong businesses, Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Phan Van Mai reiterated the city's plan to become a regional financial centre, drawing on Hong Kong's experience as a global financial hub.

"We hope to strengthen cooperation. Hong Kong businesses can share practical solutions and experiences to help us develop an effective regional and global financial centre," Mai said.

Hong Kong currently ranks fourth among 133 cities in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI) by Z/Yen Partners and the China Development Institute, while Ho Chi Minh City ranks 108th, having climbed 12 spots since 2023.

Since the early 2000s, Ho Chi Minh City has prioritised financial market development as a key economic restructuring initiative. The vision to create an international financial centre is part of a national strategy, with a steering committee established in 2023.

Bonnie Y Chan, CEO of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange

Hong Kong is currently Vietnams seventh-largest trading partner and fifth-largest foreign direct investor, while Vietnam is Hong Kongs second-largest trading partner in ASEAN and seventh-largest globally. According to the General Department of Customs, bilateral trade reached $6.6 billion in the first half of 2024, with Hong Kong investors contributing $1.73 billion to Vietnam during the same period.

During the visit to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the Hong Kong delegation led by Lee signed 30 MoUs with Vietnamese government agencies, organisations, universities, and businesses in trade and investment promotion, finance, fintech, transportation, logistics, and education.

Hong Kong delegation signs 30 MoUs with Vietnamese government agencies and businesses A delegation led by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive John Lee has concluded a working trip to Vietnam, having signed 30 MoUs.
Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition 2024 (VILOG 2024), themed "Green Logistics - A Foundation for Sustainable Development", took place at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Centre (SECC) from August 1 to 3. The expo attracted more than 300 companies representing 20 countries and territories, fostering global connections within the logistics network.

Phan Thi Thang, Deputy Minister of industry and trade, and delegates visit the booth of Long An International Port

In response to the environmental challenges facing the port industry and to achieve global objectives, port operations worldwide are undergoing a "greening" process, seeking a balance between environmental impact and economic development. Vietnam's National Strategy for Green Growth has set a goal of "greening" various economic sectors. In this context, the development of green logistics, encompassing green logistics centres, green ports, and more, is considered a crucial standard.

In light of this trend, Long An International Port is committed to operational excellence and embracing both digital and green transformations. Through the adoption of renewable energy sources, resource conservation measures, process optimisation, and the reduction of waste and emissions, Long An International Port is at the forefront of sustainable port operations.

Its port facilities are equipped with solar panel systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, and cutting-edge technologies such as CATOS and MOST. Its fleet of tractor trucks adheres to stringent Euro 5 emission standards, while its cranes are fully electric. Moreover, the port is actively exploring the implementation of electric or battery-powered equipment, with the ultimate goal of achieving shore power usage by 2030.

Vo Quoc Huy, chairman of the Board of Directors at Long An International Port, stated, "Long An International Port highly appreciates the scale of organisation as well as the ability to gather and influence of VILOG 2024. As a central platform for industry experts and businesses to explore advanced solutions and build valuable business networks, Long An International Port invites esteemed partners, businesses, and colleagues to join us in building strong cooperative relationships. We are aiming to complete the Mekong Delta logistics supply chain, building a business network based on cooperation, innovation, and progress, towards green logistics and sustainable development of the logistics industry in Vietnam."

Long An International Port welcomed the Taiwan Cold Supply Chain Enterprise Delegation for a visit and cooperative discussion

According to the government's viewpoint, it is vital to mobilise all resources, especially non-budgetary resources, for comprehensive investment, with an emphasis on maritime infrastructure. Seaports, as a critical part of national maritime infrastructure, play a vital role in the socioeconomic infrastructure of local communities.

The development of modern and synchronised maritime infrastructure contributes to ensuring marine safety and security, efficiently connecting various transportation modes, and maximising the advantages of large-volume cargo transportation. This plays a significant role in international freight transport, reducing logistics costs, optimising the nation's resources, and addressing climate change, while also aiming towards greener, more economical, and safer transportation methods.

Ports play a pivotal role in the global economic chain, especially in the logistics and supply chain sectors, serving as international goods exchange points and hubs for transportation and distribution activities. Long An International Port, strategically located at the gateway to the Mekong Delta region, has become a crucial link to enhancing the regional logistics network. From the port, goods from the Mekong Delta region are gathered and distributed to destinations worldwide.

A glimpse of Long An International Port

Long An International Port partners with Oriental Port and Allied Services Corporation Long An International Port signed a Letter of Intent for future cooperation with Philippines' Oriental Port and Allied Services Corporation (OPASCOR) during the Philippine Ports and Logistics 2024 Conference and Exhibition on March 21.

Long An International Port praised at conference Long An International port has been recognised and commended for its scale, development strategy, and potential to drive economic and social development in the Mekong Delta and the region as a whole.
The recognition reaffirms the tremendous and consistent efforts of the Japanese company towards the sustainable development of Vietnam.

The 2024 Top 50 CSA was divided into 16 award categories. In the category for Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Panasonic Vietnam was among the enterprises recognised for its efforts in creating a diverse, fair, and inclusive workplace while being active in bringing initiatives for protecting the environment and solving local issues.

Marukawa Yoichi, general director of Panasonic Vietnam, said, "We have been consistent in putting the mission of societal contributions at the forefront of our business activities. Panasonic has declared its commitment to reduce over 300 million tonnes of CO2 across the value chain of our global business. In Vietnam, we have steadfastly committed to the country's sustainable development for the next 50 years."

"We have dedicated ourselves to implementing various CSR initiatives that will inspire the community to create a positive impact. We also believe that human resources development will contribute to the sustainable growth of the company and society, so we have incorporated the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy to strengthen our core competencies," he added.

Panasonic has undertaken CSR efforts that focus on the environment and education, two fundamental pillars of sustainable development.

Among the most prominent initiatives, the Japanese firm is soon to reach the milestone of one million trees planted and donated across Vietnam by the end of the 2024 fiscal year. This accomplishment is the result of years of consistent efforts to plant trees through the special initiative 'Live Wellness, Contribute Green'. In addition to planting new trees, the company's members also gathered to support local communities, such as an environmental class for children, an organic waste treatment workshop for households, and used-battery collection.

For the young generation, Panasonic's 'Live Green and Wellness with Gen G' campaign has inspired millions of youngsters to practice a green, healthy lifestyle while empowering and sponsoring environmental initiatives proposed by young people.

In education, 'Panasonic for Sustainable Schools' was launched in 2022. The initiative built on the achievements of Panasonic Risupia Vietnam, which ran a free-entry Mathematics and Science Museum that welcomed nearly 900,000 students, teachers, and parents between 2010 and 2021. For over two years, the scheme benefitted over 60,000 students and nearly 120 schools and educational organisations, giving students the chance to learn and practice STEM through lectures and toolkits, while also raising awareness of environmental protection and global issues related to sustainable development.

Furthermore, significant effort has been spent to facilitate learning opportunities for future Vietnamese generations. Panasonic Scholarship Asia has sponsored more than 200 students nationwide with more than VND55 billion ($2.2 million) over the last 20 years. The company also donated nearly 3,000 solar lanterns to off-grid areas that provide local children with better conditions for studying at night.

Kids Witness News (KWN), a completely free programme that focuses on filmmaking, is one of the most eagerly anticipated yearly events for schoolchildren, having been running in Vietnam for the past 17 years.

Panasonic inspires at Mottainai Run Hundreds of employees, from the board of directors to employees from the seven different companies under the Panasonic Vietnam Group umbrella, and their families gathered at Hoan Kiem Lake in the early morning of October 21, full of enthusiasm to participate in the Mottainai Run.

Panasonic launches new green drive Panasonic Vietnam launched season two of its 'Live Green and Wellness with Gen G' campaign on December 16, following the success and positive response to last year's programme, which was aimed at engaging young people with the topic of global warming.
OCB last week revealed that the bank has 20 shareholders holding over 1 per cent of its charter capital, which now has to be disclosed as per the new rules.

Revision forces banks to reveal more shareholders, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com

Among these, three foreign shareholders stand out: Japans Aozora Bank with a 15 per cent stake, Portal Global holding 3 per cent, and Pyn Elite Fund with 2.4 per cent. The remaining 17 domestic individuals and companies collectively own over 60 per cent of the banks charter capital.

OCB chairman Trinh Van Tuan and related parties holds a combined 19.9 per cent stake. Institutional investors also play a crucial role, with nine enterprises collectively owning 31.6 per cent of OCB shares.

The revised Law on Credit Institutions has expanded the definition of related parties to include step-parents and in-law step-parents, stepchildren-in-law, and extended family members such as uncles, aunties, and cousins. Additionally, any legal entities or individuals with potential risks to the operations of the credit institution, as determined by internal regulations or State Bank of Vietnam inspections, are considered related parties.

Another significant change in the revised law is the reduction of ownership limits for institutional shareholders (including indirect ownership) from 15 to 10 per cent, and from 20 to 15 per cent for shareholders and related parties. From July 1, shareholders and related parties who exceed the new ownership limits are allowed to maintain their stakes but are not permitted to increase them further, except through stock dividends.

VPBank published a list of 13 individuals, each holding over 1 per cent of the banks charter capital, collectively possessing more than 40.8 per cent of total equity. Institutional shareholders include Japans megabank Sumitomo Mitsui with over 15 per cent, Diera Corp with 4.39 per cent, and related parties holding an additional 13.65 per cent.

Chairman Ngo Chi Dung holds over 328.5 million shares, equating to more than a 4.14 per cent stake. His related parties collectively own 2.34 billion shares, corresponding to almost 30 per cent of the charter capital. Thus, Dung and his related parties hold over 33.6 per cent of VPBanks charter capital, a significant increase from the 13 per cent reported at the end of 2023.

Similarly, HDBank disclosed its list of shareholders holding over 1 per cent of its charter capital. The list includes two foreign funds and a company linked to billionaire Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao. The Finnish investment fund Pyn Elite Fund holds a 2.2 per cent stake in the bank, and has significant holdings in other Vietnamese banks such as SHB, Sacombank, MB, Vietcombank, and TPBank.

Baillie Gifford Pacific Fund, owning 2.19 per cent of HDBank, also invests heavily in parts of Asia, with a portfolio featuring companies such as Samsung Electronics, Tencent, and Luckin Coffee.

The latest shareholder list does not reveal the direct holdings of Thao, but rather through Sovico. The company is chaired and managed by Pham Khac Dung, who holds over 417.7 million HDB shares, equivalent to nearly 14.3 per cent of the bank. Dung is also the deputy CEO of Sovico Group, a multi-industry conglomerate founded by Thao.

Meanwhile, MSB has announced that one individual and 10 enterprises each hold over 1 per cent of its charter capital.

Tracking the ownership stakes of individuals and organisations in banks or their borrowing activities is straightforward. However, true controlling parties often remain undisclosed if they use proxies or establish shell companies to hold shares or secure loans.

Governor of the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), Nguyen Thi Hong, acknowledges that no single regulation can fully address this problem.

A comprehensive approach is needed, including provisions in the amended Law on Credit Institutions and other measures such as integrating national databases on population and business registration, Hong said.

She also emphasised the importance of effective coordination among government regulatory bodies, inspection agencies, and audit entities.

Collaboration between regulatory bodies, inspection agencies, and audit entities is essential to tackle this issue comprehensively, Hong added.

In May, the Ministry of Public Security was instructed to collaborate with the SBV to swiftly address issues of cross-ownership and manipulation within banks. In a directive issued that month, the prime minister emphasised that achieving the goals of the 2021-2025 economic development plan necessitates the reduction of negative practices and the influence of vested interests.

Credit risks can be erased with fresh law Vietnams National Assembly has passed the Law on Credit Institutions, reflecting shifts in developments in green growth, heightened market risks, and recent legal violations in finance and real estate.

Key developments for ID's at credit institutions In the realm of credit institutions (CIs) and public companies, good corporate governance is paramount to protecting the legal rights and interests of shareholders and stakeholders, thereby fostering their trust and reliability, this is according to Ngo Dang Loc, associate, and Vu Pham Huyen My, legal assistant at Indochine Counsel.
Singapore-based venture capital (VC) and private equity firm Clime Capital last month invested $10 million in Vietnams clean energy company, Nami Distributed Energy. This investment, facilitated through the Southeast Asia Clean Energy Fund II, aims to support Namis accelerated growth and its positive impact on Vietnamese enterprises.

Singapores venture capital funds covering all bases, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com

Mason Wallick, founder and CEO of Clime Capital, told VIR, We have been active in Vietnam since our launch in 2020. We identified Vietnam as having significant potential for developing clean energy infrastructure, not only due to its favourable natural resources like wind and sunshine, but also because its growing economy requires more power.

Clime Capitals previous investments in Vietnam include Levanta, which is involved in three wind power projects in Vietnams south central and Highland regions; EBoost, an open network electric vehicle charging operator; and Stride, a pioneer in cleantech providing financing solutions and quality assurance for rooftop solar and battery energy storage systems installations for households and small businesses in Vietnam.

The governments recent introduction of rules on direct power purchase agreements creates significant opportunities for cost-effective renewable energy, Wallick added. With its on-the-ground presence and established relationships in Vietnam, Clime Capital is exploring several potential opportunities, which the fund hopes to advance in the near future. Clime Capital also has funding set aside for both startups and more established clean energy businesses.

Another Singapore-based VC firm, Wavemaker Partners, is also actively investing in Vietnam. In April, Wavemaker Partners invested $1 million in Vietnamese digital marketing solutions provider CNV.

Wavemaker Partners has been investing in Vietnam regularly since 2020, and currently has eight active companies in its portfolio from Vietnam, said principal Phuong Tran.

We are confident in Vietnam as one of our main markets in Southeast Asia, where we primarily invest. We have maintained a steady pace of investments over the past four years, averaging two deals per year, and we plan to continue this, regardless of whether it is a funding winter or spring, Tran said.

According to the Vietnam Innovation and Tech Report 2024, released by the National Innovation Centre and Do Ventures in April, Singapore was the most active investor in Vietnams tech sector in 2023, with Vietnam ranking second in terms of investment activities. Specifically, 22 Singaporean funds invested in Vietnamese startups last year.

Recently, Singapore-headquartered VC firm Antler hosted a portfolio showcase attended by over 100 VCs and investors who flew into Ho Chi Minh City to meet Antlers portfolio startups.

Antler, in particular, will continue to support startups in proving their business viability, scaling up their financial performance, building a capable team, and articulating clear growth strategies to thrive in this funding climate, said Erik Jonsson, partner at Antler. We are dedicating $6 million over the next nine months specifically to Vietnam, providing pre-seed capital to inception-stage founders and follow-on funding for each company.

However, VC funding has decreased across Vietnams startup landscape. A report by India-based capital market company Tracxn revealed that total funding into Vietnamese tech startups dropped by 52.7 per cent to $46.5 million in the first half of 2024, compared to $98.5 million in the first half of 2023.

Nevertheless, groups like FEBE Ventures Fund II are focused on global resource allocation, and Vietnam remains a key part of its Southeast Asia focus.

We are keen to support its dynamic startup ecosystem, said Olivier Raussin, co-founder at FEBE Ventures. We are interested in scalable technology startups with global ambitions, including those from Vietnam aiming for a global impact. The fund is industry-agnostic within tech, focusing on sectors like business-to-business, AI, healthtech, and climate-tech.

To help its portfolio startups navigate challenging times, FEBE Ventures provides support in business development, fundraising, talent acquisition, and strategic guidance to ensure sustainable growth.

Despite the current startup winter, Vietnam holds potential as a startup ecosystem driven by several key factors, Raussin said. Firstly, Vietnams increasing integration into the global economy makes it a strategic location for startups and investors alike. Secondly, the country has a strong education system, particularly in K-12 maths and engineering. And thirdly, the governments proactive push for technological advancements, such as the development of 5G networks, supports the growth of tech startups.

Singapore to revitalise stock market A newly-established review group with representatives from both the private and public sectors will propose measures to revitalise Singapores struggling stock market.

Singapore launches market alliance to facilitate carbon credit trade The Singapore Carbon Market Alliance (SCMA) was launched recently, serving as a national platform that will help connect developers of carbon credit projects with potential buyers.
The groundbreaking ceremony at the Spectrum Nghe An facility

Guests included representatives from Dong Nam Economic Zone Management Board, Nghi Loc district, WHA Group, Hop Luc Company, and other distinguished delegates. Their presence highlighted the significance of this project in advancing sustainable development in Vietnam.

With a total investment of $45 million, the project will span 15.6 hectares within WHA Industrial Zone 1 (the second phase) in Nghi Dong commune, Nghi Loc district, Nghe An province. It was awarded an investment certificate by Nghe An People's Committee last September and is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2025.

The facility offers direct toll-free access via Highway No.7C, Asian Highway No.1A, and the North-South Expressway. Positioned as an international gateway, it is just a 25-minute drive from Vinh International Airport and Cua Lo Seaport, providing tenants with exceptional accessibility and convenience.

The site's appeal is enhanced by a special tax incentive for the first 15 years and the proximity of major foreign companies like Goertex, Sunny, and Foxconn. This makes it an ideal emerging hub for industrial manufacturers and e-commerce companies.

Ben Ding Khoon Yew, general director of Soilbuild International (Vietnam)

Speaking at the ceremony, general director Ben Ding Khoon Yew said, "Today, Soilbuild not only breaks ground but also lays the foundation for our future success in Vietnam. Following Nghe An, we plan to launch additional industrial projects in Bac Ninh and Hung Yen provinces, while fostering growth and supporting businesses in Nghe An."

Director of Dong Nam Economic Zone Management Board Le Tien Tri congratulated everyone at the groundbreaking ceremony. He expressed confidence that once operational, Spectrum Nghe An would attract more investment, create numerous job opportunities for local workers, increase state budget revenue, and drive socioeconomic development.

"This is a significant step forward, contributing to economic restructuring and leveraging the full potential and advantages of Nghe An province to achieve rapid and sustainable development," said Tri.

Anchalee Prasertchand, vice president of WHA Industrial Development Plc., said, "Soilbuilds dedication to excellence and innovation resonates deeply with our values at WHA Vietnam. We are building more than just facilities; we are creating an ecosystem that fosters economic growth, nurtures local talent, and provides sustainable solutions that benefit not only businesses but also the communities we serve."

Featuring ready-built facilities ranging from 3,200 to 14,000 square metres, Spectrum Nghe An has been developed in accordance with LEED Green Building Standards.

Soilbuild extends horizons into Vietnams industrial real estate Soilbuild Group Holdings, an integrated real estate group in Singapore, has broadened its investment in the industrial real estate segment in Vietnam through its Soilbuild International division.

Sustainability included in all Soilbuilds buildings Soilbuild has been applying and including sustainability in its industrial parks and factories for a long time to level up the values and positions of industrial property.

Soilbuild honoured for green transformation strategy at VIPF 2024 At the Vietnam Industrial Property Forum on July 30, Soilbuild International (Vietnam) was honoured as an industrial property developer with a sound green transformation strategy.
The Plant Protection Department (PPD) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) announced that the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency of South Korea (APQA) had published import regulations for fresh pomelos from Vietnam on its website.

Pomelos are the third fresh fruit from Vietnam allowed to enter South Korea, alongside dragon fruit and mangoes. With a population of over 51 million, South Korea presents a good opportunity for Vietnamese exporters.

"Exporting Vietnamese pomelos to South Korea marks a significant step, opening up great opportunities for Vietnamese agricultural products to access international markets, while affirming the quality and reputation of Vietnamese produce globally," the PPD stated.

To facilitate Vietnamese businesses interested in exporting pomelos to South Korea, the PPD has provided import conditions to relevant units for dissemination and implementation.

As per South Korean regulatory requirements, pomelo production areas for export must register annually with the PPD for management and monitoring.

The PPD must also notify the plant quarantine agency of registered pomelo growing areas, export packing houses, and hot vapour treatment facilities before commencing fresh pomelo exports each year.

Pomelos must be free from plant quarantine pests specified by South Korea and undergo hot vapour treatment. Export inspections will be conducted by Korean and Vietnamese plant quarantine officers on 2 per cent of the total cartons, or 600 fruits per shipment.

Pomelos are among 14 key fruit groups in the fruit tree development plan outlined by the MARD.

Currently, Vietnam has over 100,000 hectares of pomelo plantations, with a total yield exceeding 900,000 tonnes. The Mekong Delta region alone accounts for about 32,000ha, producing around 370,000 tonnes. Provinces with large pomelo cultivation areas include Ben Tre (over 8,800ha), Vinh Long (over 8,600ha), and Dong Nai (over 5,400ha). Prominent pomelo varieties with high export potential include green-skinned pomelo, Nam Roi pomelo, and Tan Trieu pomelo.

Before South Korea opened its market, major countries like the United States and New Zealand had already granted permits for fresh pomelos from Vietnam. Currently, Vietnamese pomelos are officially exported to 13 countries and territories. By 2025, this number is expected to increase to 14, including Australia.

Fruit imports head increasingly to the home market The appeal of imported fruit products has not cooled down, as more and more foreign exporters are trying to find ways to loosen market room.

Fruit and vegetable exports hit record high in first half of 2024 Fruit and vegetable exports continue to be a bright spot in the overall economic picture for the first half of 2024, with revenues approaching $3.5 billion.

Vietnam aims for $3.5 billion in durian exports in 2024 Vietnam is aiming to export $3.5 billion worth of durian in 2024, as the fruit continues to dominate the country's overseas fruit and vegetable shipments.
Vu Thi Chan Phuong, Chair of the SSC, (right) and ASIC Chairman Joseph Longo at the signing ceremony in Australia. (Photo courtesy of SSC)

Hanoi - The State Securities Commission of Vietnam (SSC) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation in Sydney, Australia on August 2.

ASIC Chairman Joseph Longo described the event as a pivotal moment in the collaborative efforts between the two regulatory bodies.

This signing not only underscores the enduring bond between the two parties, but also signifies a commitment to fostering cooperation and advancing the growth of the capital markets in both nations.

Longo highlighted that the MoU will enable the two agencies to establish formal information-sharing mechanisms, enhance technical cooperation in market supervision, exchange best practices and bolster investor protection efforts.

He added that the MoU reflects the ASIC's commitment to supporting Vietnam's economic growth and capacity building.

"The ASIC commits to ongoing capacity-building support for the SSC, offering technical assistance, training programmes and infrastructure enhancements," said Longo.

The ASIC Chairman praised Vietnam's recent economic strides, noting its resilience and dynamism in the region.

He expressed confidence in Vietnam's capital market growth and development, adding that the MoU marks a fresh start in the partnership, aligning with shared vision of fostering a vibrant capital market under robust supervisory frameworks.

Vu Thi Chan Phuong, Chairwoman of the SSC, said that Vietnamese stock market is a crucial avenue for both short and long-term capital infusion for businesses and the economy. She noted its appeal to investors from Australia and beyond.

She acknowledged the valuable support from the Australian government in developing the market, including funding for the Joint Capital Markets Programme (J-CAP) by the World Bank.

This assistance aids the country in meeting market criteria, enhancing training activities, capacity building and fostering exchange programmes.

"The MoU signed today between the ASIC and the SSC exemplifies a robust cooperative bond, enhancing effective collaboration between the securities regulators and the two nations. This supports the goals outlined in the Joint Declaration on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and Australia," Phuong said.

She is also optimistic that through voluntary cooperation, mutual benefit and legal compliance, the partnership between the SSC and the ASIC will intensify, benefiting regulatory bodies, market operators and Australian businesses and investors in Vietnam.

Phuong also suggested increasing high-level leadership and technical exchanges, conducting practical training programmes, workshops and improving information exchange for better market management and supervision.

Australian healthcare training helping Vietnam's wellbeing Advanced healthcare training programmes from Australia can present a viable solution to various challenges in Vietnam.

Vietnam and Australia bodies forge stock market partnership Vietnam's State Securities Commission (SSC) on August 2 signed an MoU with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Sydney, marking a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts between the two regulatory bodies.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), seafood exports in the first seven months of 2024 were estimated at $5.29 billion, up 7.3 per cent on-year, ranking second in export value within the agricultural sector.

Shrimp exports alone generated $2 billion, up 7.5 per cent on-year, maintaining its position as the top product in the seafood industry.

China, the United States, Japan, and the EU were among the major importers of Vietnamese shrimp, contributing to the positive growth in export value during the first half of this year. Notably, China recorded the highest growth rate. Specifically, shrimp exports to China (including Hong Kong) reached $328 million, a substantial increase of 17 per cent compared to the same period last year.

In the first half of this year, China significantly increased its purchases of Vietnamese lobster, causing the export value of this crustacean to surge 57-fold on-year. The US market followed with export value reaching $303 million, a slight increase of 1 per cent; exports to Japan totalled $229 million, down 3 per cent; and to the EU, $217 million, up 13 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.

The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) forecasts strong growth in shrimp exports to the US and EU markets in the final months of this year. This aligns with market trends, as importers typically increase large-scale purchases for the year-end holiday season.

Additionally, inventory issues and transportation difficulties are expected to ease, with demand recovering and prices likely to rebound. Following this trajectory, Vietnam's shrimp exports are projected to meet the $4 billion target this year.

Despite this recovery, shrimp exports still face numerous challenges. According to congthuong.vn, Ho Quoc Luc, chairman of the Board of Directors at Sao Ta Foods JSC, noted that Vietnamese shrimp are facing increased competition from countries like Ecuador, India, and Indonesia in the US market. Oversupply from India and Ecuador's increased production has led to a continuous sharp decline in shrimp prices.

Simultaneously, sluggish consumer demand due to the global economic recession has created unfavourable conditions in the shrimp export market.

Tensions in the Red Sea pose a complex problem for global supply chains, directly impacting Vietnamese shrimp exports to key markets such as the US and Europe. Rising transportation costs and risks in ensuring delivery schedules are forcing export businesses to seek more complex alternative solutions or focus on closer markets.

According to Phung Thi Kim Thu, a shrimp market expert from VASEP, businesses need to pay attention to new consumer preferences to increase market share in 2024. For example, China is trending towards reducing imports of frozen warm-water shrimp, rock lobster, other sea shrimp, and frozen lobster, while increasing imports of fresh, live, and chilled lobster. In South Korea, demand for pre-cooked, processed, and ready-to-eat seafood is rapidly increasing.

The US and China are expected to remain the two largest markets for Vietnamese shrimp exports in 2024, accounting for about 40-45 per cent of the industry's export turnover. Domestic businesses are also actively expanding and seeking new markets to minimise risks associated with dependence on a few traditional markets. Diversifying export markets helps the shrimp industry gain more opportunities for sustainable and stable long-term development.

The government and relevant agencies are working to support businesses through preferential policies, facilitating exports, and improving product quality. Research and development programmes for new technologies in shrimp farming and processing are also being prioritised to enhance productivity and quality, meeting the stringent standards of demanding markets.

Vietnamese shrimp has been exported to about 100 countries and territories, ranking among the top three countries for shrimp exports in the world and accounting for 13-14 per cent of the total global shrimp export value.

Full shrimp potential still outwith reach The export market in the first half of this year has painted a decent picture for shrimp businesses, but generally still behind the countrys previous medium-term ambitions.

Brighter prospects for seafood exports Gradual market rebound and Chinas ban on seafood exports from Japan has been instrumental for Vietnam's seafood export gaining growth momentum at year-end.
Officials from the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) met with representatives from the UAE's Ministry of Economy to finalise the remaining details of the Vietnam-UAE CEPA on July 30.

According to the MoIT, a free trade agreement with the UAE is one of Vietnam's top priorities, as evidenced by the concerted efforts of the ministry and other governmental bodies. The ministerial-level terms have been agreed upon and will be reported to the authorities of both countries, paving the way for an official signing in the near future.

Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the UAE said, "Several major Vietnamese corporations are already capitalising on the opportunities presented by CEPA and have started investing and conducting business activities in the UAE. Conversely, UAE investors are also exploring significant projects in Vietnam."

In the first half of 2024, bilateral trade between the two countries surpassed $3.2 billion, a 43 per cent increase on-year. Vietnam's exports exceeded $2.8 billion, up 47 per cent, while imports reached over $435 million, a 25 per cent rise.

Vietnam's exports to the UAE are diverse, ranging from electronics such as mobile phones, machinery, equipment, computers, and components, to footwear, textiles, vehicles and parts, as well as agricultural products like cashews, pepper, fruit, and rice.

Imports from the UAE include petroleum products, liquefied gas, raw plastic materials, animal feed and ingredients, common metals, and chemicals.

The UAE was Vietnams largest export market and second-largest trading partner in the Middle East last year, behind Kuwait.

From 2019 to 2023, the total average annual trade between the two countries was approximately $4.8 billion. Vietnam consistently enjoys a trade surplus with the UAE, with an annual value exceeding $3 billion.

"A trade agreement with the UAE, once signed and implemented, will create significant opportunities for Vietnam's key export sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and footwear to access numerous other markets through the UAEs strategic transit hub," said an MoIT representative.

Comprehensive partnership pushes US trade prospects As the United States prepares to celebrate 248 years of independence, US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper finds similar cause to celebrate the upcoming first anniversary of its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam.

Vietnam, India economic cooperation to thrive following strengthening of strategic partnership Leaders of India and Vietnam have agreed to reinforce cooperation among their governments and businesses to boost two-way trade, investment, and their technological partnership.
According to a report released by VinaCapital on July 31, the rebound in earnings growth from a 5 per cent drop last year to 19 per cent growth this year is supported by an acceleration in Vietnam's GDP growth from 5.1 per cent in 2023 to an expected 6.5 per cent in 2024.

The enthusiasm of local investors to buy stocks stems from the fact that deposit rates in Vietnam are still below 5 per cent  even for 12-month deposits  and that the country's real estate market is still somewhat frozen, making the stock market and gold attractive to local investors.

Further to that point, retail investors dominate stock market trading in Vietnam, accounting for 90 per cent of daily trading value on average this year, absorbing an estimated $2.4 billion worth of Vietnamese stocks that foreign investors have sold year-to-date (following $1 billion last year).

Foreign investor selling has been prompted by profit taking, concerns about the circa 4 per cent year-to-date depreciation of the VND, and because some foreign investors are taking a "wait and see" approach in light of recent political developments in the country.

The report also pointed out that a quarter of foreign selling transpired via exchange-traded fund (ETF) redemptions, including the dissolution of Blackrock's iShares Frontier ETF, which was liquidated in June (monthly foreign net sales of Vietnamese stocks hit a record-high in June, driven in part by the liquidation of the ETF). In the aftermath of that foreign selling, the proportion of Vietnam's stock market owned by foreign investors fell to its lowest level in a decade.

However, selling linked to the liquidation of that ETF has now finished, and some sophisticated foreign investors have been taking advantage of foreign selling to increase their long-term strategic investments in Vietnam. For example, Capital Group, Fidelity, and other foreign institutional investors reportedly bought a large stake in ACB, Vietnam's leading retail lender, earlier this year.

Michael Kokalari, chief economist of VinaCapital, said, "We expect earnings growth to accelerate from an estimated 9 per cent on-year in the first half of 2024 to 33 per cent in the second half of 2024, driven in part by the nascent recovery of the country's real estate market. The initial thawing in Vietnam's real estate market started in December 2023, and the ongoing recovery has gained considerable momentum since then. We estimate that real estate transaction activity surged by about 40 per cent on-year in the first half of 2024, driven by pent-up demand and a series of laws to revive the market recently enacted by the government."

"Consequently, we expect the earnings of real estate developers (excluding Vinhomes) to surge 80 per cent this year. Furthermore, a healthier real estate market should support banks earnings' by boosting credit growth and reducing asset quality concerns /credit costs. The recovery of Vietnam's real estate sector is likely to further accelerate next year, which is one of the reasons that VN-Index earnings will grow by another 17 per cent in 2024," he added.

The wide variation in the performance of the sectors in Vietnam's stock market is typical and presents ample opportunities for active managers. For example, funds are overweight in the IT sector, which is being buoyed by global enthusiasm for AI-related stocks.

Sector performance (per cent year-to-date)

Consumer discretionary stock prices have also performed well this year because the earnings of those companies are expected to grow 55 per cent after having dropped by 42 per cent last year.

This rebound stems from the fact that domestic consumption (excluding foreign tourists) was very weak in 2023 (when the sluggish real estate market and layoffs at FDI factories weighed heavily on Vietnamese consumer spending) but has recovered this year. Similar idiosyncratic factors explain the performance dispersion among other sectors.

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.

Vietnam and Australia bodies forge stock market partnership Vietnam's State Securities Commission (SSC) on August 2 signed an MoU with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Sydney, marking a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts between the two regulatory bodies.
A woman was arrested Friday after Waco police believe she tried to stab multiple people near downtown Waco with a folding pocketknife.

Patricia Anne Ragsdill, 65, was booked in McLennan County Jail on a second-degree felony charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Officers were dispatched Friday near Franklin Avenue and South University Parks Drive on reports of a female with a knife who tried to stab a construction worker, an affidavit says. When officers arrived, they spoke with multiple construction workers who said a woman was running around with a knife that was open (unfolded) and was trying to stab people, the document says.

Witnesses told police Ragsdill, also identified as Patricia Anne Martin in the affidavit, walked into bathrooms located down South University Parks Drive toward Washington Avenue and had not come out.

One of the workers said Ragsdill was swinging the knife around towards him and multiple other people, but when he walked away to go back to work, (Ragsdill) started chasing him with the knife pointed out and came within maybe 10 feet from him before stopping, the affidavit says.

Police made contact with Ragsdill at the bathrooms. In a purse, she had an unfolded pocketknife, according to the affidavit.

Patricia stated she could not get the knife to close so she was swinging it around, the document says. Patricia was then placed in handcuffs and under arrest for aggravated assault with (a) deadly weapon.

She remained in McLennan County Jail on Tuesday with bail listed at $10,000.
CEDAR RAPIDS  U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland was in Cedar Rapids Tuesday to talk with local, state and federal law enforcement about their work to combat violent crime as part of a nationwide outreach this week to U.S. attorneys offices.

Garland gave opening remarks to media and highlighted some cases in the U.S. Northern District of Iowa before going into a closed-door meeting with U.S. Attorney Tim Duax, Cedar Rapids Police Chief David Dostal, Linn County Sheriff Brian Gardner, and several other regional partners, including Homeland Security Investigations, ATF Kansas City Field Division, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration-Omaha Division.

Garland visited Wisconsin earlier Tuesday before arriving in Cedar Rapids. He was headed to Urbandale for a National Night Out event in the evening.

Assassination plot

Before Garland commended Duax, his assistant prosecutors and partners on their efforts, he announced a complaint was unsealed Tuesday in the Eastern District of New York, charging an individual with ties to Iran of trying to hire hit men to assassinate a politician or a U.S. government official on American soil.

The defendant, Asif Merchant, of Pakistan, allegedly met with several individuals in New York, who he thought were hit men but who were actually undercover law enforcement, Garland said. The Department of Justice, for years, has been working to aggressively counter Irans brazen and unrelenting efforts to retaliate against American government officials for killing General (Qasem) Soleimani.

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.

Garland said they havent found any evidence linking Merchant with the attempted assassination of Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13.

Cases with Iowa ties

Garland spoke about the importance of partnerships in confronting violent crime and protecting Iowans. He said he knew when he became U.S. Attorney General more than three years ago that the most powerful tool in addressing violent crime would be our partnerships.

That was my experience as a line attorney prosecuting violent crime and drug trafficking in the early 1990s, and as a Justice Department official supervising and organizing our efforts in that regard later in the 1990s, Garland noted.

The anti-violent crime strategy used has meant zeroing in on those individuals and gangs responsible for the most violent acts; making critical investments in police departments to hire more officers; and dedicating resources and initiatives aimed at preventing and disrupting violence before it happens.

Garland said communities are now seeing the results. Last year, the United States had one of the lowest violent crime rates in 50 years, which included the largest drop in homicides in 50 years.

And according to a recent report, the first six months of this year show the trend is continuing, with further declines in violent crime in more than 40 cities, he noted.

Garland highlighted in April the Northern District office prosecuted an individual who distributed fentanyl and heroin to a victim who overdosed and died. The offender, James Adam Earwood, 39, of Rutherfordton, N.C., advertised his drugs on a private online forum for recovering heroin users and shipped his product nationwide. He was sentenced to more than 30 years in federal prison.

In May, prosecutors secured a 15-year sentence for an Arizona man who sent thousands of fentanyl pills to an individual in Marion. Dominique Holliday, 28, of Tempe, Arizona, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.

In addition to our work to get fentanyl out of our communities, this office is working with its partners through the departments Project Safe Neighborhoods program to crack down on firearms offenses and disrupt violent crime, Garland said.

As part of that program, Duaxs office prosecuted a man who pretended to work for ATF in order to steal firearms. Ken Nakato, 36, of Coralville unlawfully possessed at least 20 firearms when he was arrested. He was sentenced to eight years.

Garland said he knew these examples were just a snapshot of the work this office does every day to keep the communities safe, to protect civil rights and to ensure the rule of law.

I am very proud of the work of U.S. Attorney Duax and all of the men and women of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Iowa, Garland said in his closing remarks. And I am equally proud of their partnerships, with the people around this table, and with the federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies that work every single day to keep Iowans safe.

Before Garland was appointed U.S. Attorney General by President Joe Biden, he was a U.S. Court of Appeals judge for the District of Columbia Circuit. He was appointed in 1997, served as chief judge from 2013 to 2020 and served as chair of the Executive Committee of the Judicial Conference of the United States from 2017 to 2020.

In 2016, President Barack Obama nominated him as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Senate Republicans  led by U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa  refused to schedule a vote. When President Donald Trump took office in early 2017, he appointed Neil Gorsuch to the high court.

Photos: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz
06.08.2024 (17:05)

Statement by Russian Defence Ministry

Today from 8:00 Moscow time, up to 300 Ukrainian militants of the AFU 22nd Mechanised Brigade supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armoured fighting vehicles launched an attack following preparatory fire at the positions of the Russian State Border Covering Force near Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya (Kursk region) immediately adjacent to the border between Russia and Ukraine.

The State Border Covering Force repelled attacks and inflicted fire damage at the enemy and reserves along with the Border Service of the Federal Security Service near the State Border and on the territory of Sumy region.

Operational-tactical and ground-attack aircraft delivered strikes at the concentration areas of the AFU manpower and military hardware near Basovka, Zhuravka, Khoten, Yunakovka, Belovody, Khrapovshchiny (Sumy region). The Russian Army Aviation effectively engaged the enemys armour. Reserves of the Russian Group of Forces in Kursk direction moved to the battle area.

As a result, the AFU losses amounted to up to 16 units of hardware, including six tanks, two infantry fighting vehicles, four armoured personnel carriers, three Kozak armoured fighting vehicles, and one counter-obstacle vehicle.

Tags:

WtR

and

Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (6 August 2024)

The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation.

Units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 36th Marine Brigade, 117th, 129th territorial defence brigades, and 1st Special Operations Brigade near Stetskovka, Miropoliye (Sumy region), Ryasnoye, Volchansk, and Volchanskiye Khutora (Kharkov region). Two counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 63rd Mechanised Brigade were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 120 Ukrainian troops, two pickup trucks, two 152-mm D-20 howitzers, and two 122-mm D-30 howitzers.

Units of the Zapad Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and positions and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 14th, 43rd, 116th mechanised brigades, 77th Airmobile Brigade, 110th, and 115th territorial defence brigades near Sinkovka, Tabayevka (Kharkov region), Stelmakhovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic), and Torskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 370 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, one UK-made 155-mm Braveheart self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, and two UK-made 105-mm L119 howitzers. One U.S.-made AN/TPQ-36 counter-battery warfare station and three ammunition depots were destroyed.

Units of the Yug Group of Forces improved the tactical situation and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 23rd, 24th, 54th, 72nd mechanised brigades, 5th, 10th, and 80th assault brigades near Verkhnekamenskoye, Ivano-Daryevka, Ivanopoliye, Grigorovka, Chasov Yar, Predtechino, Ostroye, and Konstantinovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 520 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one French-made 155-mm Caesar self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, and two 152-mm D-20 howitzers.

As a result of active actions, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces liberated Timofeyevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic) and took more advantageous lines.

Moreover, losses were inflicted on formations of the AFU 31st, 32nd, 100th, 117th mechanised brigades, 142nd Infantry Brigade, and 109th Territorial Defence Brigade near Toretsk, Novgorodskoye, Vozdvizhenka, Grodovka, and Tarasovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Three counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 53rd, 151st mechanised brigades, and 95th Air Assault Brigade were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 355 Ukrainian troops, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, and one 100-mm Rapira anti-tank gun.

Units of the Vostok Group of Forces improved the tactical situation along the front line and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 72nd Mechanised Brigade, 58th Motorised Infantry Brigade, and 128th Territorial Defence Brigade near Vodyanoye, Makarovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic), and Mirnoye (Zaporozhye region). Two counter-attacks launched by units of the AFU 108th Territorial Defence Brigade were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 105 Ukrainian troops, one tank, nine motor vehicles, three Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery systems, and one Anklav-N electronic warfare station.

Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 65th Mechanised Brigade, 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, 124th Territorial Defence Brigade, and 37th Marine Brigade near Malaya Tokmachka, Pyatikhatki (Zaporozhye region), Antonovka (Kherson region), and Kherson.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 65 Ukrainian troops, four motor vehicles, two U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzers, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, and two field ammunition depots.

Operational-Tactical and Army Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Groups of Forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation destroyed two MiG-29 aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force on the base airfield, one P-18 air target detection and tracking radar station, delivered strikes at weaponry and ammunition depots, as well as engaged the AFU manpower and hardware clusters in 127 areas.

Air defence units shot down six U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles and 51 unmanned aerial vehicles.

In total, 635 airplanes and 278 helicopters, 29,235 unmanned aerial vehicles, 561 air defence missile systems, 16,776 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,396 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 12,904 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 24,419 units of special military equipment have been destroyed in the special military operation.

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The Nevada Department of Agriculture is issuing a quarantine order for several areas to help prevent the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease.

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a fatal neurologic disease found in the deer family.

This order, issued by the Nevada Department of Agriculture's State Quarantine Officer and Director, comes after recent detections of CWD in a road killed deer near Bishop, California.

As of now, CWD has not been confirmed in Nevada. However, NDOW says this is the first time the disease has been detected this close to the state.

To prevent the movement of CWD, the following quarantine measures are now in place under the authority of Nevada Revised Statute Chapter 571 and Nevada Administrative Code 441A.

To improve surveillance and prevent the movement of CWD, the following quarantine measures are now in place under the authority of Nevada Revised Statute Chapter 571 and Nevada Administrative Code 441A:

Effective immediately, all elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, moose, reindeer, caribou, and fallow deer within Nevada Hunt Units 192-196, 201-208, 211-213, and 291 are under quarantine

It is now mandatory that anyone who harvests a deer in the Transportation Restriction Zone (TRZ) submits a CWD sample. Sample instructions can be found on ndow.org : https://www.ndow.org/blog/chronic-wasting-disease/

: It is illegal for anyone to knowingly transport or possess the carcass or any part of the carcass of any elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, moose, reindeer, caribou, or fallow deer harvested in the Nevada TRZ, or another state, territory, or country, HOWEVER:

It is legal to bring into Nevada or move out of the TRZ the following parts of the carcass of any of the animals listed above: Wrapped meat or quarters, with no part of the spinal column, brain tissue, or head attached. The hide or cape with no part of the spinal column, brain tissue, or head attached. The clean skull plate with antlers attached and no brain tissue attached. The antlers with no meat or tissue other than antler velvet attached. The taxidermy mount with no meat or tissue other than antler velvet (if applicable) attached. The upper canine teeth including, without limitation, the bugler, whistler, and ivory teeth. A sample collected within the TRZ for CWD surveillance (separately bagged and including only the obex and lymph nodes) that can be dropped off at any NDOW office.

to bring into Nevada or move out of the TRZ the following parts of the carcass of any of the animals listed above: Disposal requirements: Within the TRZ, the spinal column, brain tissue or head attached must be disposed of in the following manner: Left at the site of harvest (preferred method). Disposed of in approved and certified landfill within the TRZ (see list here: https://www.ndow.org/blog/chronic-wasting-disease /). Surrendered to the NDOW office in Reno or Tonopah or check station within the TRZ for disposal. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES should prohibited parts be moved out of the TRZ or disposed of on the landscape (other than the location of kill).



NDOW says these same transport requirements must be followed when harvesting any species in the deer family (deer, elk, moose, caribou) outside of Nevada.

The quarantine order remains in effect until February 1, 2025, or until a written release is issued by the State Quarantine Officer.

(Nevada Department of Wildlife contributed to this report.)
The Washoe County coroner has identified the man found dead in the Truckee River near Virginia Street in Reno early Tuesday morning.

The coroner says 46-year-old Christopher Nyhammer of Reno died at the scene.

The cause and manner of death are pending investigation.

Emergency crews were called to the scene just after 7 a.m. to pull the man's body from the water.

Police say there's no threat to the public.

If you have any information that can help authorities, contact the Reno Police Department at (775) 334-2677. You can also stay anonymous by contacting Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900.

The case number is #24-14441.
The Washoe County School District has been hosting multiple job fairs this summer to fill about 200 open positions.

They're now down to 49 open job positions on the job board. They've made over 100 hires so far since last month as the start of the school year is nearing.

The school district is still looking for teachers in Special Education, Math, Science and English.

Our students are very important to us. We would like for you to come building-ready because our students are looking for people that care. Theyre looking for teacher assistants that help them, and theyre looking for professionals that want to be with them in the classrooms, in the buildings and ready to rock and roll with education," said Wanda Washington, Recruiter and Project Coordinator for the Washoe County School District.

Of course, were going to make sure everything is in place to welcome out personnel for our students, so hopefully everyone will be in place and ready to roll," Washington adds.

If you have a passion for kids if you like being around them all day everyday this is the job for you," said Rebecca Janes, a Teacher for the WCSD.

Janes teaches 7th grade ELA Resources at Traner Middle School. It's her first year at Traner Middle School, but she has been in the school district for 12 years.

Janes says everyone has been supportive, but preparing has been difficult because it's time consuming and labor intensive to get ready for the school year.

"Things I'm looking forward to this year are the challenges of increasing my special education knowledge and also learning a new population," she said.

She also explains that over the years she's seen a huge reliability in technology in the kids as the year goes on.

Having them be able to disconnect long enough to pay attention to what were doing in the classroom is the biggest challenge," Janes explains.
From Thursday to Sunday, shop and customize pre-loved Levis denim jackets in 1 Hotels lobby.

Bright and bold DIY accessories kits from Ariel Gordon Jewelry and Honestly WTF keep the summer fest vibes going. Plus, Marin brow guru Michele Holmes expands her offerings to include cutting-edge facials.

You do you (and your Levis jean jacket) at 1 Hotel. (Courtesy of Levi's) Shop cool AF pre-loved Levis denim trucker jackets at San Franciscos 1 Hotel. Yes, they make ideal festival-fab layers for Outside Lands. Before hitting up Golden Gate Park to see Post Malone or Sabrina Carpenter, stop at the pop-up shop in the hotel lobby for a curated selection of Levis SecondHand jackets with glorious rips and the softest hand-feel. Plus, you can customize your look on site with chain stitching and exclusive patches. P.S. For those with tix to OSLs Golden Gate Club (a glorious, private space designed by icon Ken Fulk), grab a fun specialty cocktail served up by Andre Sierra, beverage director at 1 Hotels restaurant/bar Terrene. Hell be there throughout the day on Friday, August 9th. // Thursday, August 8th through Sunday, August 11th (10am5pm); 1 Hotel: 8 Mission St. (Embarcadero), 1hotels.com, levi.com

Get crafty with DIY accessories kits from fashionista friends Ariel Gordon and Erica Chan. (Jessi Caparella) Meet the collab you didnt know you needed: DIY Knotty Rope Kits ($125) from Ariel Gordon Jewelry and Erica Chan of Honestly WTF. Not only will the kits spark your creativity and bring joy to your world, youll be left with a one-of-a-kind bracelet, crossbody phone lanyard, purse charm or anklet (designed by you). Gordon and Chan, longtime friends, East Bay inhabitants, and popular local creatives share a similar outlook on life and looksthat is, more is more. Brightly colored and playful, the kits perfectly package Gordons jewelry know-how and Chans DIY craftiness. Each kit, available in four fun colors, includes: 15 feet of thick rope, eight feet of thin rope, pearl beads and charms, a metal phone insert, and a Bic lighter. Basically, everything you need to make one of several accessories with step-by-step instructions. Need more more-is-more? There are several add-ons you can purchase like extra rope, purse carabiners, and charms. // Shop online at arielgordonjewelry.com with easy-to-follow directions at honestlywtf.com.

Brow guru Michele Holmes adds (celeb-loved) transformative skincare treatments to her repertoire. (Sarah Davis) The sought-after eyebrow whisperer" known for her natural brow-shaping technique and expertise in brow health has been busy expanding her offerings. Her new skincare space, called The Secret Knock, features luxurious and cutting-edge treatments using Oxylight, a device loved by A-listers and available here for the first time in Northern California. The discovery of the Oxylight device had me running to L.A. to experience the treatment for myself, says Holmes. "I can see why celebrities get these treatments before red carpet eventsbecause you truly glow after each session. Our clients are already over the moon. In other news, Holmes' clean beauty brand Rye has added a brow milk ($32): The gel-pomade hybrid lifts, conditions and defines eyebrows. In other words, its the perfect alternative for those who arent into chemical brow lamination. The product also contains growth-supporting peptides and nourishing ingredients to keep brows soft and in place. // 25 First St. (Corte Madera), micheleholmesstudio.com






PEP11 Update

Perth, Aug 6, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - BPH Energy Limited (BPH) ( ASX:BPH ) and Bounty Oil & Gas NL (Bounty) ( ASX:BUY ) for the PEP11 Joint Venture announce that today, 5 August 2024, Asset Energy Pty Ltd (Asset) as operator for and on behalf of the joint venture partners, filed an Originating Application for Judicial Review in the Federal Court seeking the following:



1. A declaration that the Commonwealth-New South Wales Offshore Petroleum Joint Authority has breached an implied duty by failing to make a decision under the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage Act 2006 (Cth) with respect to two pending applications relating to Petroleum Exploration Permit NSW-11 (PEP11 Permit); and



2. An order that the Joint Authority be compelled to determine the applications within 45 days.



Background



On 24 December 2019, Asset applied for a variation and suspension of the conditions of the PEP11 Permit pursuant to s 264 of the Act and an extension of the term of the PEP11 Permit pursuant to s 265 of the Act (the First Application). The variation, suspension and extension were sought to, among other things, enable Asset (i) further time lawfully to drill an exploration well; and (ii) thereafter conduct post well studies rather than conduct a three-dimensional seismic survey. The National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator (NOPTA), on behalf of the Joint Authority, accepted the First Application on 23 January 2020.



On 30 January 2021, Asset applied for a variation and suspension of the conditions of the PEP11 Permit pursuant to s 264 of the Act and an extension of the term of the PEP11 Permit pursuant to s 265 of the Act (the Second Application). The variation, suspension and extension were sought to, among other things, enable Asset further time lawfully to drill an exploration well and sought to invoke the decision-making principles set out in the COVID-19 Fact Sheet: Work-Bid Exploration Permits (dated April 2020). NOPTA, on behalf of the Joint Authority, accepted the Second Application on 4 February 2021.



On or about 26 March 2022, the then purported Joint Authority formally determined to refuse the First Application (Purported First Application Decision). On 14 February 2023, the Purported First Application Decision was set aside by the Federal Court of Australia on the ground of apprehended bias. The decision of the Federal Court was the subject of an announcement made on 14 February 2023 by BPH.



Between March 2023 and October 2023, Asset provided further information to NOPTA. On 17 October 2023, NOPTA made a recommendation to the Joint Authority with respect to both Applications. To date, neither the First Application nor Second Application have been determined by the Joint Authority according to law. It has been 1,656 days (inclusive) since the First Application was accepted by NOPTA. It has been 1,278 days (inclusive) since the Second Application was accepted by NOPTA.



Asset alleges that the failure by the Joint Authority to make a decision with respect to the First Application and the Second Application constitutes a breach of its duty to consider the applications within a reasonable time.





About BPH Energy Limited





BPH Energy Limited (ASX:BPH) is an Australian Securities Exchange listed company developing biomedical research and technologies within Australian Universities and Hospital Institutes.

The company provides early stage funding, project management and commercialisation strategies for a direct collaboration, a spin out company or to secure a license.

BPH provides funding for commercial strategies for proof of concept, research and product development, whilst the institutional partner provides infrastructure and the core scientific expertise.

BPH currently partners with several academic institutions including The Harry Perkins Institute for Medical Research and Swinburne University of Technology (SUT).

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Mining Commences at Phillips Find

Perth, Aug 7, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Horizon Minerals Limited ( ASX:HRZ ) is pleased to announce that it has executed through its wholly owned subsidiary, Greenstone Resources Limited, an open pit mining Joint Venture (JV) Agreement with BML Ventures Pty Ltd ("BML" or the "Miner") for the Phillips Find Gold Project ("Phillips Find" or "Project"). The proposed mining project is 100% owned and located 45 km north-west of Coolgardie, Western Australia in the heart of the Western Australian goldfields (Figure 1*).



HIGHLIGHTS



- Joint Venture (JV) Agreement executed with BML Ventures Pty Limited (BML) to develop and mine two open pits at Phillips Find



- Existing 200kt Toll Miiling Agreement executed with FMR Investments Pty Ltd (FMR) to be utilised for Phillips Find JV ore



- All management, technical, operational and maintenance roles to be undertaken by BML with oversight by the Company



- Low financial risk JV structure with BML to fund all project costs, with net cashflow after the asset recovery and repayment of costs to be split 50/50 between Horizon and BML



- Mining Proposal (MP) submitted to DMIRS and is currently under assessment



- Mobilisation and site establishment is imminent, with mining commencing in the September 2024 quarter subject to MP permit being approved



- First gold production planned for the December 2024 quarter, subject to permitting



- Processing at FMR's Greenfields mill to be undertaken for a period of eight months under the Toll Milling Agreement



- Mining at Phillips Find is independent of mining at Boorara being treated at Norton Gold Fields' Paddington mill, with production and cashflows now coming in from two production sources



- Current Australian gold price provides favourable environment to deliver strong margins and cashflow generation



Commenting on the JV agreement, Managing Director and CEO Mr Grant Haywood said:



"We are pleased to have partnered up with BML Ventures, who have a proven track record of delivering projects in the eastern goldfields of Western Australia. BML will be managing and sole funding the Phillips Find JV which greatly derisks the project for the Company, particularly from a financial perspective. This agreement does not require any capital from Horizon and allows us to keep our focus on our Boorara startup. The Cannon Project will be paused until sufficient cash flows are generated from our two production sites, Boorara and Phillips Find, to sole fund rather than joint venture.



We look forward to generating cash over the next 19 months from two gold mining projects in this very strong gold price environment."



*To view tables and figures, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/3VH905LN





About Horizon Minerals Limited





Horizon Minerals Limited (ASX:HRZ) is a gold exploration and mining company focussed on the Kalgoorlie and Menzies areas of Western Australia which are host to some of Australia's richest gold deposits. The Company is developing a mining pipeline of projects to generate cash and self-fund aggressive exploration, mine developments and further acquisitions. The Teal gold mine has been recently completed.

Horizon is aiming to significantly grow its JORC-Compliant Mineral Resources, complete definitive feasibility studies on core high grade open cut and underground projects and build a sustainable development pipeline.

Horizon has a number of joint ventures in place across multiple commodities and regions of Australia providing exposure to Vanadium, Copper, PGE's, Gold and Nickel/Cobalt. Our quality joint venture partners are earning in to our project areas by spending over $20 million over 5 years enabling focus on the gold business while maintaining upside leverage.

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Dylan Roberts Appointed Company Secretary and General Counsel

Brisbane, Aug 7, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - North American lithium producer Sayona Mining Limited ( ASX:SYA ) ( DML:FRA ) ( SYAXF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to announce that Mr Dylan Roberts has been appointed to the role of Company Secretary and General Counsel effective 6 August 2024. Dylan succeeds Paul Crawford in the role of Company Secretary, while Paul will serve as a Non-Executive Director.



Dylan is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators and The Governance Institute of Australia, as well as a Solicitor of the Supreme Courts of Western Australia and New South Wales. Most recently, he was the Group Company Secretary and Senior Legal Counsel at Arcadium Lithium, where he played a significant role in the A$15 billion merger of Allkem Limited and Livent Corporation, focusing on governance and legal aspects of the transaction. Prior to that, he was the Group Company Secretary and General Counsel for an ASX listed marine services provider with operations in Australasia, South East Asia, the UK and the Middle East.



With over 25 years of experience, Dylan brings extensive knowledge across a diverse range of industries. His key responsibilities have included managing corporate governance obligations, such as Board and Committee meetings, periodic corporate reporting, ASX and ASIC compliance, shareholder queries, and the administration of Employee Share Schemes.



Additionally, Dylan has been responsible for policy preparation, contract negotiation and drafting, and trade compliance matters. Prior to his recent positions with ASX-listed companies, Dylan held various legal roles, including practicing corporate law in Sydney and serving as a Senior Associate at DLA Piper in Perth - where he gained experience in banking, insurance, and maritime law.



Sayona's MD & CEO, Lucas Dow said, "We are thrilled to welcome Dylan to our team as Company Secretary and General Counsel. Dylan's extensive experience and proven track record in governance and legal affairs make him an invaluable addition to our organisation. We are confident that his expertise will be instrumental in supporting our continued growth and success. We also want to thank Paul for his contribution in his capacity as Company Secretary and look forward to Paul playing an important role in his capacity as a Non-Executive Director at Sayona."





About Sayona Mining Limited





Sayona Mining Limited (ASX:SYA) (OTCMKTS:SYAXF) is a North American lithium producer with projects in Quebec, Canada and Western Australia. In Quebec, Sayona's assets comprise North American Lithium together with the Authier Lithium Project and its emerging Tansim Lithium Project, supported by a strategic partnership with American lithium developer Piedmont Lithium Inc. (ASX:PLL). Sayona also holds a 60% stake in the Moblan Lithium Project in northern Quebec.

In Western Australia, the Company holds a large tenement portfolio in the Pilbara region

prospective for gold and lithium. Sayona is exploring for Hemi-style gold targets in the world-class Pilbara region, while its lithium projects include Company-owned leases and those subject to a joint venture with Morella Corporation (ASX:1MC).

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Business Today hosted a compelling webinar previewing its most awaited event of the year, the "Adani BT India@100" thought leadership program featuring Rahul Kanwal, Siddharth Zarabi, Sourav Majumdar, and Shailendra Bhatnagar. The discussion focused on India's journey towards becoming a global leader by 2047, marking 100 years of independence.

The webinar explored Prime Minister Modi's vision of a 'Vikasit Bharat' and the challenges in escaping the middle-income trap. The hosts emphasized that true growth must percolate down to the masses, benefiting every citizen, including the 'Aam Aadmi' of the nation.

Sourav Majumdar, Editor, Business Today, stressed the need for sustained 7-10% growth over 20-30 years to achieve this vision. The mega-trends shaping India's economic growth would include energy transition, digitalization, and manufacturing growth.

Rahul Kanwal, Executive Director, Business Today, discussed that why Business Today is launching the India@100 initiative, emphasizing the importance of envisioning Indias progress till 2047 and beyond. The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive framework for economic development, outline strategies to achieve global leadership, and identify essential actions required for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Shailendra Bhatnagar, Editor, Markets, Business Today TV, provided insights on capital markets, noting the shift towards local money-driven growth and highlighting the surge in monthly SIP contributions from 4,000 crore to  21-22,000 crore.

Siddharth Zarabi, Managing Editor, Business Today TV, highlighted challenges such as supporting MSMEs, which make up 30% of India's economy and addressing geopolitical issues. He also discussed the middle-income trap, where nations struggle to advance from middle-income status to high-income economies.

Key topics included the transformation of India's capital markets and efforts to position India as a global manufacturing hub.

This insightful discussion sets the stage for Business Today's biggest event of the year, the "Adani BT India@100" forum on August 20 at the Leaders Lounge, Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, where top corporate leaders, thought leaders, and policymakers will further explore India's path to becoming an economic giant by 2047.
Creativeland Asia has appointed Poran Malani as the new group CEO With over 30 years of experience in media and advertising across various regions, including India, Europe, Latin America, the United States, and East Asia, Malani brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. He left S4 Capital in February 2024. Before his tenure at S4 Capital, Malani worked as a digital transformation consultant for BASF, collaborated with Mahesh Bhupathi's celebrity brand company Swag Fashions, and co-founded the consultancy Fair Fern with VL Rajesh.

Throughout his career, Malani has spent over three decades with companies such as McCann, Ogilvy, and Coca-Cola. Notably, he served as the president of Ogilvy South India for nine years, where he established a global hub in Bangalore for Lenovo's international account, as well as for SCJ and IBM.
Dapper Dude, one of the pioneering men's grooming brands from the house of Skin Miracle, has announced acclaimed Bollywood actor Neil Nitin Mukesh as its new brand ambassador. Known for his impeccable style and charismatic presence, Neil Nitin Mukesh embodies the essence of the Dapper Dude brand, making him the perfect choice to represent the brand's commitment to quality and innovation in men's grooming.

Neil Nitin Mukesh's association with Dapper Dude marks a significant milestone for the brand. With a legacy of excellence, Skin Miracle has been catering to beauticians for over a decade, offering products formulated in France and manufactured in Malaysia to suit Asian skin. Dapper Dude continues this tradition, providing top-notch skincare solutions tailored for men.

"I am excited to be associated with Dapper Dude, a brand that stands for quality, innovation, and the modern man's grooming needs," said Neil Nitin Mukesh. "As someone who values skincare and grooming, I am thrilled to represent a brand that offers comprehensive and effective solutions."

"We are thrilled to have Neil Nitin Mukesh join the Dapper Dude family. His sophistication and commitment to grooming excellence mirror our brands ethos. This partnership marks a significant step in our journey to redefine men's grooming in India." - Vishal Baid, Founder of Dapper Dude

Dapper Dude offers a complete range of skincare solutions designed specifically for men, including skin brightening, instant lifting, anti-aging, hydration, beard growth, lip care, and under-eye care products to name a few from many. All Dapper Dude products are SLS free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, pH balanced, and free from bleaching agents, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Dapper Dude's parent brand, Skin Miracle, has been a trusted name in the beauty industry for over twenty years.

Dapper Dude aims to serve over 5,000 salons across India and neighboring countries, aspiring to become a leading name in the skincare category. With Neil Nitin Mukesh as the brand ambassador, Dapper Dude is set to reach new heights, expanding its presence both nationally and internationally.
The third edition of the DATAMATIXX ASIA 2024 Summit and Awards was held on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at the Novotel Mumbai. The premier event from Adgully brought together industry leaders to explore the frontiers of data, AI, and marketing evolution.

The event saw Nachiket Deole, Head Of Sales, Double Verify, deliver a keynote address on Driving Campaign Performance in the Age of AI.

Commencing his address, Nachiket Deole noting, We have been hearing about AI in the last couple of years; no conference ends and starts without mentioning AI, every session so far has been talking about AI, but Im going to discuss how we as a company are using AI in our products and how these products are helping us in delivering better performance and how application of AI is made possible. For instance, the headline  What does a Chief AI Officer look like in the marketing world?  means the companies are now hiring Chief AI Officers, or on the path to hiring that skillset. In reality, there are specialized resources that are going to be required, which means the business is really serious.

He pointed out Google is paying publishers to test and unrelease Gen AI platforms, and one of the largest publishers is going to pay to test Gen AI. Synthetic media producer is the latest role addressing Gen AI thing. Everybody wants Gen AI, but eventually, when the usage scales up one needs somebody to monitor that, put rules to that, and really be ethical in their approach when they deploy AI.

Brands are reassessing roles to build new capabilities, thus everybody is experimenting, everybody knows there is a future, but everybody is scared of what the future holds. So, thats where AI is and which is creating new challenges in the marketplace surrounding content quality, 95% of the content on digital will be generated by AI in the next 3-5 years. Now the question is with that scale of content, how the companies and publishers are going to monitor and monetize that content, because content can go either way, its not about just churning content, but also about maintaining the quality, Deole maintained.

Continuing further, he said, Editorially its not going to be possible to churn out quality content and maintain the quality of that content if one does not use AI. Massive usage of fraud is being seen, when fraud signatures or fraudsters are getting into the systems, and when the campaigns are being delivered, so how do we combat that? Then there is the scale and complexity  there are so many platforms, formats, and publishers who are going to use this. It is humanly impossible to kind of manage that scale and complexity. There are short-form, reels, long-form video, text, images, and unlimited complex opportunities.

Speaking about how Double Verify is trying to mitigate all these challenges, Deole said that first is Fraud AI. With machine learning models, paired with human oversight, the scale at which we are tracking fraud is now insane, we are probably tracking around 2 million frauds daily, but the challenge here is how AI is mimicking human behaviour. If we look at fraud a couple of years back, probably the behaviour was linear, Now a human accessing an OTT will spend around 15 minutes on one, 30 minutes on another, and 10 minutes on any other OTT. Now with AI, bots are mimicking that behaviour, so we need to have a tool to conquer that behaviour, detect that behavior, and classify it as a bot behaviour. Thats where we are moving as a company, he added.

Elaborating further, he said, Our bread and butter is brand safety and suitability solutions for our clients. For that, we need to monitor content, and classify content in the right buckets, saying whether its a brand-safe content or not. For that we need to understand the meaning of that content and those keywords, It is about that whole context and article in which the keyword appears. For example, an Apple can be a phone, an apple can be a fruit or a chemist next to you. How we as a company are going to classify Apple in those three different buckets is where AI kicks in. And that needs to happen at a scale that is unimaginable, where millions of articles and content pieces are coming up every day. So, machine learning powers our classification in video as well as other media. Thus, now AI can literally look at video, see different elements of that video, and then look at the risk factors.

Another factor that Deole mentioned was predictive AI. He said, Now with all the learnings coming in, how do we deploy it so that advertisers utilize that data and put it into action? Thats where predictive AI comes in. It drives campaign optimization and performance, and optimizes on your KPIs as well as costs. In one of the FMCG brands, 10% of the inventory was going on inappropriate content. Now this 10% was classified because of classification AI, it was identified that out of 100 impressions, 10 impressions were going on non-brand safe content, and 82% had lower block rate which was achieved by using authentic brand suitability solutions that are deployed before a bid is placed. This led to an 11% increase in viewability, which is massive, and an 18% reduction in authentic CPM, which translates to being brand-safe, viewable, fraud-free, and delivered in the desired geo.

These are edited excerpts. For the complete keynote address, please watch below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDZZZxiahKk
Elon Musks social media platform, X, filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against a global advertising alliance and several major companies, including Unilever, Mars, and CVS Health. The suit accuses these entities of unlawfully conspiring to boycott the platform and deliberately causing it to lose revenue. Formerly known as Twitter, X alleges a massive advertiser boycott orchestrated by the defendants.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Texas, targeting the World Federation of Advertisers and the individual companies. Musk tweeted, We tried peace for 2 years, now it is war, on the same day.

According to the lawsuit, advertisers, through the World Federation of Advertisers initiative called the Global Alliance for Responsible Media, collectively and maliciously withheld billions of dollars in advertising revenue from X. The company claims this action violated US antitrust law as the advertisers acted against their own economic interests in a conspiracy against the platform.

In a statement, Xs chief executive, Linda Yaccarino, said: People are hurt when the marketplace of ideas is constricted. No small group of people should monopolize what gets monetized. She added that the boycotts consequenceor perhaps intentwas to deprive Xs diverse user base of the Global Town Square.

The World Advertising Federation, Unilever, Mars, CVS Health, and Orsted did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Since Musk acquired the company in 2022, ad revenue at X has significantly declined, partly due to brands concerns over the rapid changes under his leadership. Watchdog groups have reported an increase in antisemitic content on X, including ads appearing next to pro-Nazi posts, following Musks reduction of content moderation teams. A related lawsuit filed by X against Media Matters is set for trial in April 2025.

The responsible media initiative launched by the advertising group in 2019 aims to address the challenge of illegal or harmful content on digital media platforms and its monetization through advertising.

X claims in its lawsuit that it adheres to brand-safety standards comparable to its competitors and that meet or exceed the measures specified by the Global Alliance for Responsible Media. The company is seeking unspecified damages and a court order to prevent any continued efforts to withhold advertising dollars. The lawsuit also states that X has become a less effective competitor in the digital advertising market.
Filter Coffee Co., a leading full-service digital agency renowned for its expertise in social media, content production, and influencer marketing, is thrilled to announce its partnership with Bharat Vedica A Patel Venture, a newly launched organic brand committed to preserving Indian traditions through high-quality organic food products.

Bharat Vedica, inspired by the rich cultural heritage of India, aims to deliver authentic and organic food products that resonate with the ethos of traditional Indian cuisine. The brand is on a mission to grow "Bharat Organically," ensuring that consumers have access to food that is not only delicious but also safe and environmentally friendly.

As part of this collaboration, Filter Coffee Co. has been entrusted with managing Bharat Vedica's social and digital media strategies and influencer partnerships. The agency will leverage its decade-long experience and innovative approach to drive Bharat Vedica's online presence and engagement.

"We are excited to partner with Bharat Vedica A Patel Venture, a brand that shares our passion for authenticity and quality," said Anuja Deora, Founder & CEO at Filter Coffee Co. "Our team is committed to crafting a comprehensive digital strategy that amplifies Bharat Vedicas brand values and connects with consumers on a deeper level. Through creative visuals, engaging content, and strategic influencer collaborations, we aim to elevate Bharat Vedica's reach and impact in the organic food market."
kindlife.in, India's fastest-growing platform for beauty, wellness and health has raised $8 million funding in its Series A round.

Led by JB-Dooeun TK Fund and MIXI Global Investments, with participation from Kalaari Capital and marquee angel investors, the investment empowers kindlife to solidify its position as the go-to destination for Gen Z beauty enthusiasts and revolutionise the beauty landscape in India. kindlife has previously raised a seed round of $2.5 million in seed funding from Kalaari Capital, Titan Capital, Java Capital, and others.

Founded by Radhika Ghai, Vidit Jain, and Manasa Garemella, kindlife curates better-for-you brands that resonate with young India's holistic approach to self-care. kindlife uses proprietary AI technology to help Gen Z consumers discover personalised skincare and wellness routines and products. The platform also provides exclusive and priority access to popular and trending global beauty brands, including Korean and Japanese brands.

"We are very excited to partner with Korean private equity firms JB Investment and Dooeun & Company, as well as the Japanese investor MIXI," says Ghai. "At kindlife, we understand that Gen Z prioritises quality and authenticity, and we're committed to making high-quality global beauty brands accessible to them, with a particular focus on premium Korean and Japanese beauty. Our strong AI technology is at the core of how we solve discovery and personalization." South Korea- based private equity firms JB Investment and Dooeun & Company have partnered to form the JB- Dooeun TK Fund, which will lead the Series A round in kindlife. TKN Advisors will serve as the exclusive India advisor for the fund.

This capital will enable kindlife to build a strong connection between Korea, Japan, and India. Fuelled by a robust distribution network that ensures seamless delivery of premium Korean beauty brands, their community includes thousands of beauty creators who share recommendations and take a content-first approach, educating consumers on the latest K-beauty trends.

Tak Lee, Managing Director at TKN Advisors, said, "We're always seeking innovative companies with the potential to disrupt industries. kindlife stood out with their focus on Korean Beauty, a hot trend in India, and their AI technology for personalized beauty solutions. The exceptional team at kindlife, with their deep understanding of the GenZ market and commitment to building a best-in- class experience, convinced us to invest in them. We're excited to actively collaborate with them to revolutionize the beauty industry and bring more Korean beauty, culture, and lifestyle trends to India."

Adding to the investors excitement, Tomoharu Urabe, principal partner at MIXI Global Investments said kindlife is creating a highly user-friendly ecommerce platform featuring AI- enabled discoverability and the built-in influencer community. The early metrics back up that the concept is working great. We're thrilled to join the investment round and provide support to further expand its business.

Capitalising on the surging popularity of K-beauty, fueled by the Hallyu wave, kindlife is uniquely positioned to cater to India's rapidly growing K-beauty market. This year alone, kindlife plans to exclusively launch over 20 Korean and Japanese beauty brands on their platform.
Cheil India has just unveiled a breath-taking CGI spectacle that showcases the cutting-edge security of 'Samsung Knox Vault' available on Samsung Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35 5G devices.

Samsung Knox Vault is a security platform designed to safeguard sensitive data on Samsung Galaxy series smartphones. It combines a secure processor, memory and software that protects the smartphone against both software and hardware attacks. Samsung Knox Vault ensures that critical information like biometric data, passwords and encryption keys, remain isolated and secure much like a bank security vault protecting valuable assets.

Transforming the iconic Samsung India building into a colossal, larger-than-life vault, this visually striking CGI film leaves onlookers in awe, and raises the bar for immersive feature demonstrations  as it vividly illustrates the defence-grade protection of Samsung Knox Vault.

As we navigate an era of unparalleled digital connectivity and mounting privacy concerns, Samsung Knox Vault on Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35 5G stands out as a beacon of security, offering next-level protection for your personal data against any threats.
Armasuisse

Bern, 07.08.2024 - The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse is seeking new procedures for the environmentally friendly and safe recovery of ammunition from Swiss waters by means of an idea competition. The three best competition entries will be awarded prize money of altogether 50,000 Swiss Francs. It is not planned to implement the submitted entries immediately, but they could serve as the basis for further clarifications or for launching research projects.

Military ammunition was submerged in various Swiss lakes between 1918 and 1964. This involved problem ammunition, surplus or outdated service ammunition of the forces in perfect condition or even rejected batches from production. The bulk of the submerged ammunition lies in Lake Thun, Lake Brienz and Lake Lucerne at a water depth between 150 and 220 metres.

With the launching of an idea competition, armasuisse wants to increasingly involve academia and industry in the considerations on how environmentally friendly and safe recovery of deep lake ammunition could be carried out, should this ever become an issue. This could be the case if, against all expectations, the release of pollutants from submerged ammunition were to be established during ongoing lake water monitoring.

The sector Science and Technology of the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse will conduct the idea competition in an open and anonymous procedure. The competition documents will be available from 7 August 2024 on the federal government's simap.ch tender platform under the number #520-01. Competition entries can be submitted up to 6 February 2025. The submitted work will be assessed by a panel of experts consisting of authorities, institutes and higher education institutions according to predefined criteria. The result of the judging will be announced in April 2025. The three best entries will receive prize money of altogether 50,000 Swiss Francs. It is not planned to implement the submitted entries immediately, but they could serve as the basis for further clarifications or for launching research projects.

Previous risks and challenges of ammunition recovery

An assessment of possible recovery techniques in 2005 showed that all proposed solutions for ammunition recovery available at the time would lead to massive sludge turbulence and high risks for the sensitive ecosystem of the lake. The submerged ammunition is covered by a fine sediment layer up to two metres thick. If the sediments are stirred up during recovery, this might lead to the loss of oxygen, which is only available in low quantities at this depth, and as a result to damage in the lake ecosystem.

In addition to the poor visibility and the risks of explosion, the water depth, the current and the dimensions (4 mm to 20 cm size, 0.4 g to 50 kg weight) as well as the condition of the submerged ammunition present a further challenge. Most of the ammunition components consist of iron and are magnetic, however certain detonators are made of non-magnetic copper, brass or aluminium. All these factors represent major challenges for environmentally friendly ammunition recovery.

Conditions of participation



The competition programme, conditions of participation and further information can be viewed at simap.ch. Please register in advance on the platform using a UID or DUNS number and then for the project. You can then view the attached documents, assess the complexity of the task and adapt your solution concept accordingly. If you have any questions regarding registration on simap.ch, please contact simap.ch support.



Due to the complexity of the task, it is assumed that private individuals who have a solution concept that meets the requirements of the task must join forces with a company. This is against the background that a possible implementation  even if this is not currently planned  cannot be carried out by a private individual alone.

Address for enquiries

Address for media

Samanta Leiser

Communication armasuisse

+41 (0) 58 465 33 79

Publisher

Armasuisse

http://www.ar.admin.ch/



General Secretariat DDPS

https://www.vbs.admin.ch/




Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia: Two Begums of Bangladesh and Their Bloody Enmity 2

In politics, no one is anyones own. Conspiracy, bloodshed, and revenge are common here. Since Bangladesh became independent, two women ruled the country alternately for a long time, maintaining a fierce rivalry. Khaleda Zia, 78, was sentenced to 17 years in prison for graft in 2018 under Hasinas rule. Khaleda Zia is the archrival of Hasina. The animosity between Zia and Hasina is referred to in Bangladesh as the Battle of Begums. Begum means a powerful woman. Their grudge has its background in the murder of Hasinas fatherthe countrys founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahmanalong with her mother, three brothers, and several other relatives in a 1975 military rebellion.

Khaleda Zia has three different dates of birth: one on her birth certificate, one on her marriage certificate, and one on her passport. She decided to celebrate her birthday on August 15. Born in 1945 in Bengals Jalpaiguri, she is the chief of the main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Her political career began after the assassination of her husband, Ziaur Rahman, who was President of Bangladesh from 1977 to 1981 and formed the BNP in 1978. Khaleda suspects Sheikh Hasinas involvement in her husbands killing, while Hasina believes there was no mastermind behind Khaledas husbands assassination.

Ziaur Rahman was a Bangladeshi military officer and politician who served as President of Bangladesh from 1977 until his assassination. He was the founder of the BNP and served as its chairman until his death. He previously served as the third chief of army staff from 1975 to 1978, with a minor break. In 1991, Khaleda Zia became the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, making her the second female prime minister in the Muslim world after Pakistans Benazir Bhutto. She served as prime minister again from 2001 to 2006. The 2007 elections were postponed due to political violence and bickering, leading to a military takeover of the caretaker government. During this interim rule, Zia and her two sons faced corruption charges.

Ziaur Rahmans death created divided opinions on his legacy in Bangladeshi politics. Awami League supporters malign him for alleged connections to Mujibs assassination and debatable actions during his presidency.

Khaleda lost to Hasina in the 1996 elections but returned to power five years later. This rivalry between Hasina and Khaleda never settled. Khaledas government and its Islamic allies were widely blamed for a 2004 rally where Hasina was addressing with grenades. Hasina survived, but over 20 people were killed and more than 500 were injured. Years later, Khaledas eldest son was tried in absentia and sentenced to life for the attack. This incident made the two Begums arch-rivals forever.

Sheikh Hasina Wazed is a Bangladeshi politician who served as the tenth and twelfth prime minister of Bangladesh from June 1996 to July 2001 and again from January 2009 to August 2024. She is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father and first president of Bangladesh. Having served for a combined total of over 20 years, she is the longest-serving prime minister in the history of Bangladesh. Her presidency ended in self-imposed exile following a series of violent protests in 2024.

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin ordered the immediate release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who has been imprisoned since 2018. Sheikh Hasina has survived a total of 19 assassination attempts during her political career. She suffers from a hearing impairment as a result of injuries sustained during the 2004 grenade attack. She and her children were given lifelong protection by the government of Bangladesh through the Special Security Force. Since Hasinas rise to power in 2009, Khaleda has faced numerous criminal charges and imprisonment. She has retreated from public life and left her exiled eldest son to lead her political movement as an acting leader. Over the years, Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia have had a long-standing feud in which both accused each other of various charges.

Now that the BNP is calling the shots, it has been claimed that all the cases against Zia were false and made up to keep her away from active politics. Meanwhile, Hasinas party has denied all the claims.

Sheikh Hasina, a long-standing leader, suddenly left Bangladesh during violent protests. General Waker-Uz-Zaman informed Hasinas office that his soldiers could not enforce the lockdown she had ordered. An Indian official briefed on the situation suggested that she leave the country for her own safety. Gradually, Hasina lost the support of the army. Sheikh Hasina resigned from her position as Prime Minister and fled the country, marking the end of her 15-year rule.

Recent Developments: The Exile of Hasina and Release of Khaleda

Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the release of jailed opposition leader and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. The decision to release Khaleda Zia was made during a meeting with opposition party members. Once Hasina left the country, Muhammad Yunus called for calm and urged people to use the opportunity to build a better nation. The caged Begum is free now, and the Begum who aggressively ruled Bangladesh had to quit the nation. Bangladeshs Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will lead an interim government after mass protests forced longtime prime minister Sheikh Hasina to flee. The appointment came quickly after student leaders called on the 84-year-old Yunus to lead. The decision was made in a meeting with President Mohammed Shahabuddin, the heads of the army, navy, and air force, and student leaders.
Akili McDowell, known for his roles in Billions and David Makes Man, has been arrested and charged with murder.

Cesar Peralta, 20, was shot and killed in the parking lot in Houston on July 20, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in a post on Facebook. The suspect fled the scene before police arrived.

According to NBC, McDowell, 21, was taken into custody on Thursday and charged with murder and theft, online jail records show. He is being held on $400,000 bond on the murder charge.

His manager, Jonell Whitt, told The Associated Press: This is an unfortunate situation and I am in prayer for Akili and those impacted by this tragedy.

McDowell played David in the OWN television series David Makes Man, about a teenage prodigy who had to juggle growing up in a tough South Florida neighborhood and attending a magnet school for academically gifted students. It aired for two seasons.

He also had a recurring role in Showtimes Billions as Savion Williams and appeared in the movie The Waterboyz.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Wa brocade gains wider popularity using coffee grounds as raw material

People's Daily Online) 13:46, August 07, 2024

After the conclusion of the 8th China-South Asia Exposition and the 28th China Kunming Import and Export Fair in Kunming, southwest Chinas Yunnan Province, Chen Tao promptly returned to her village in the provinces Puer city.

Within just three hours of opening our exhibition booth at the expo, we sold 11 scarves and eight aprons. Within three days of the expos opening, we received orders worth 160,000 yuan (approximately $22,170), said Chen, who serves as the first secretary of Banmu village in Ximeng Wa Autonomous County, Puer city.

Even before the delegation returned to the village, local villagers had already begun working to meet the orders.

A villager from Banmu village, Ximeng Wa Autonomous County, Puer city, displays the technique of Wa brocade weaving, during the 8th China-South Asia Exposition and the 28th China Kunming Import and Export Fair in Kunming, southwest Chinas Yunnan Province. (Peoples Daily Online/Hu Zunhui)

During last years expo, our exhibition booth covered only 10 square meters, and this year, that area reached 72 square meters, said Chen.

Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in May 2021, Wa brocade weaving is renowned for its intricate patterns. It is also an important source of income for the Wa ethnic group.

Yan Hua, a man of the Wa ethnic group, sells Wa brocade products during the 7th China-South Asia Expo in Kunming, southwest Chinas Yunnan Province, in 2023. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

According to Li Keli, deputy director of the Bureau of Agriculture, Rural Affairs, Science, and Technology in Ximeng Wa Autonomous County, women traditionally sit on the ground while weaving Wa brocade products. Crafted with skill and unwavering patience, it takes approximately 10 to 15 days to complete a piece of exquisite Wa brocade product.

In recent years, the county has leveraged Wa brocade to increase income and has established a comprehensive industrial chain centered around this traditional craft. Significant strides have been made in this endeavor.

Photo shows dolls crafted using yarn made from used coffee grounds. (Peoples Daily Online/Hu Zunhui)

When the work team visited the village in June 2023, we were impressed by the stunning items crafted from Wa brocade. We realized that these creations had the potential to be turned into merchandise, opening up new avenues for economic prosperity, Chen recalled.

Chen led a delegation comprising village cadres, officials, and artisans of Wa brocade weaving to participate in the 7th China-South Asia Expo in Kunming. The exquisite Wa brocade works garnered significant attention during the event.

We only brought a limited selection of finished brocade products to the expo, and they received a positive response, said Chen. She further revealed that a villager named Yan Hua managed to sell brocade products worth 16,000 yuan in just five days. This amount surpassed the average per capita net income of the village in 2022, Chen added.

Photo shows scarves crafted using yarn made from used coffee grounds. (Peoples Daily Online/Hu Zunhui)

Upon returning from the expo, the work team spearheaded the establishment of the countys first Wa brocade cooperative and registered a trademark for it.

After conducting surveys and market research, the work team discovered that developing new products tailored to the preferences of urban consumers was a key factor in promoting the popularity of traditional Wa brocade.

The team reached out to a tie manufacturer in east Chinas Zhejiang Province for a partnership in the design and production of ties. Simultaneously, it also established contact with a domestic clothing manufacturer to build a partnership in the design and production of womens business attire.

In March 2024, Chen participated in the Yarn Expo in Shanghai with the aim of addressing yarn-related challenges.

While attending the expo, I came across two manufacturers that were able to produce yarn from used coffee grounds. This inspired me to explore the possibility of using coffee grounds to create yarn for Wa brocade, Chen explained.

Given that the coffee cultivation area in Yunnan accounts for more than 98 percent of the total nationwide, it can serve as a reliable source of raw material for yarn production.

Upon learning about the demand for used coffee grounds, the Yunnan Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs quickly matched two yarn production companies with coffee enterprises in Yunnan that could supply the needed coffee grounds, solving the raw material issue for coffee yarn production.

In mid-June, the first batch of yarn made from coffee grounds produced in Yunnan arrived in Ximeng Wa Autonomous County, marking the first use of coffee yarn in the crafting of Wa brocade.

Photo shows womens formal attire and aprons crafted using yarn made from used coffee grounds. (Peoples Daily Online/Hu Zunhui)

Our exhibition booth at this years expo showcased the production process of Wa brocade, as well as yarn made from coffee grounds, brocade products crafted using yarn made from coffee grounds, and other handicrafts, said Chen.

The booth, themed Wearing Coffee, captured the interest of numerous exhibitors and tourists.

Transforming coffee grounds into yarn not only effectively reduces coffee waste pollution but also allows for resource reuse. This coffee yarn possesses remarkable qualities such as moisture absorption, moisture-wicking, antibacterial property, breathability, warmth, and is even lightweight. It has extensive applications in clothing, shoes, bedding, pillows, and more, Chen said.

(Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun)
The wait is almost over for the opening of Nashville chef Sean Brocks first Birmingham restaurant.

Brock will open another location of his East Nashville fast-food restaurant Joyland in the former Rodney Scotts Whole Hog BBQ space at 3719 Third Ave. South in Avondale on Thursday, Aug. 15.

It will be Brocks first Joyland restaurant outside of the original location that he opened in the Music City in 2020.

The fast-food concept  which features burgers, biscuits, chicken, shakes and soft-serve  will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Brock, who has partnered with Nick Pihakis of the Birmingham-based Pihakis Restaurant Group to open Joyland here, tells AL.com that Birmingham is one of those cities that he wants to be a part of.

It will be the first of several additional Joyland locations he and Pihakis hope to open over the next couple of years.

Selfishly, for me, I want to put them in cities that I love hanging out in and want to spend time in and want to learn more about and want to contribute to, Brock says. Birmingham is a region and a city that I havent had a chance to contribute to.

One of the Souths most innovative chefs, Brock, a Virginia native, won the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast in 2010, when he was the executive chef at the Charleston, S.C., fine-dining restaurant McCradys. His first cookbook, Heritage, also won a James Beard Award in the American Cooking category in 2015.

He is formerly the founding chef and culinary advisor at Husk, which he started in Charleston in 2010 and subsequently opened locations in Nashville, Savannah and Greenville, S.C.

In addition to Joyland, Brocks other Nashville restaurants include Audrey, a Southern restaurant inspired by and named after his maternal grandmother, and June, a modern, intimate, tasting-menu restaurant.

The Joyland menu features Brocks inspired takes on such American classics as cheeseburgers, buttermilk biscuits, fried chicken, milkshakes and hand pies.

The star of the menu is Brocks signature CrustBurger, a griddled Bear Creek Farm beef patty served with melted American cheese on a crispy potato bun that is pressed flat as a pancake.

James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Brock, right, who opened the original Joyland in Nashville in 2020, has partnered with Nick Pihakis and his Pihakis Restaurant Group to open a second location in Birmingham.(Bob Carlton/bcarlton@al.com)

Connecting over a catfish BLT

Pihakis -- whose Pihakis Restaurant Group portfolio includes not only Rodney Scotts BBQ but also Hero Doughnuts & Buns, Little Donkey, Tasty Town Greek Restaurant, Luca Lagotto and the new Magnolia Point -- first met Brock at a Southern Foodways Alliance event in Nashville several years ago.

I walked up to this table, and Sean was making a catfish BLT, Pihakis recalls. He handed it to me and I ate it, and it was like the best thing Id ever eaten.

So, we instantly connected through food, which is what people in our industry should do, Pihakis adds. If they dont, theres something wrong because thats what were in this business for. And we just stay connected.

Brock reached out to Pihakis last fall about helping him grow the Joyland concept beyond Nashville.

When people said, We really, really like Joyland; you should open another one somewhere, my brain immediately went to approaching Nick for help, Brock recalls.

I invited him to Audrey and told him I had something I wanted to ask him, Brock adds. We sat down and had dinner, and I asked if hed be interested in helping me refine it and expand it, and the rest is history.

The Pihakis Restaurant Group closed the Rodney Scotts Whole Hog BBQ in Avondale in November 2023 but continues to operate two other Birmingham-area locations in Homewood and Trussville.

With that Avondale space available, Pihakis told Brock he had the ideal spot for Joyland.

It wasnt very hard to convince me to do this, Pihakis says. I want to keep this property, and I didnt know what I was going to do with it.

So when Sean reached out to me . . . it was pretty easy for me to go back to Sean and say, Ive got the perfect place.

Joyland is scheduled to open on Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024, at 3719 Third Ave. South in Birmingham, Ala. Hours will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, go here.
Patti Yasutake, best known for Star Trek: The Next Generation, died after a long battle with cancer on Monday.

The 70-year-old actress was surrounded by friends and family, her manager and friend Kyle Fritz told Deadline.

Patti was not only a client but a chosen family member, Fritz shared with PEOPLE. She was the very first actress I ever signed and a friendship of over 30 years ensued. It was an honor to know her, work with her and love her.She played Nurse Alyssa Ogawa on Star Trek: The Next Generation, a role she later reprised in the films Star Trek: Generations and Star Trek First Contact.

One of Yasutakes last TV role was on Netflixs acclaimed limited series Beef, playing Georges mother Fumi Nakai.

Yasutake made her major feature debut in the 1986 comedy Gung Ho as Umeki, a relocated Japanese wife earnestly trying to Americanize. She reprised her character in the follow-up ABC comedy series spawned by the movie.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on The Opening Kickoff on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.
A helicopter instructor is dead and a U.S. Army student pilot suffered minor injuries after their aircraft crashed on an Alabama base Wednesday afternoon, officials said.

Officials at Fort Novosel, previously known as Fort Rucker, were notified around 1:40 p.m. Wednesday of a mishap of an AH-64 Apache helicopter conducting routine flight training on Fort Novosel, the base said in a statement.

The instructor pilot -- a contractor -- was pronounced dead at the scene.

The student pilot sustained minor injuries and was airlifted via Army medical helicopter for medical evaluation, the base said.

Our primary concern is the welfare and health of the student pilot and care and concern for the family of the deceased, said Maj. Gen. Clair A. Gill, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Novosel commanding general, in a statement.

The crash remained under investigation Wednesday afternoon.

The crash Wednesday in Dale County at Ft. Novosel, previously known as Ft. Rucker, reportedly occurred near Lake Tholocco, WSFA reported.

The Dale County coroner could not immediately be reached to confirm the report.

A Ft. Novosel spokesman did not immediately have a comment but said the base would be issuing a statement with details on the crash.
This is an opinion column.

The bills have come due, Alabama. Two of them, anyway.

Attorneys who sued the state  to force our officials to follow federal law  have submitted their legal fees for Alabama to pay.

The total? $5.25 million  so far.

Thats the average salary of about 100 teachers in classrooms.

Thats 115 health inspectors to keep restaurants clean.

Thats enough to hire 140 new State Troopers to keep our roadways safe.

Thats millions spent fighting against giving Black voters a proportionate voice in Alabama politics  redistricting maps rejected by Trump-appointed federal judges and the United States Supreme Court  twice.

Thats what Alabama politicians pig-headed stubbornness has cost us so far. And the meter is still running.

It didnt have to be this way.

Three years ago, I was there when the stupidity began. In a committee room in the Alabama State House, lawmakers gathered to draw new congressional districts, only  magically it would seem  the maps had already been drawn by  somebody.

State Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa, asked what should have been a simple question: Who drew these maps?

The Republicans in charge, the co-chairs on the joint redistricting committee, never gave a straight answer.

RELATED: How 155 angry white men chained Alabama to its Confederate past

But one thing was clear. The new maps ensured the GOP would maintain solid majorities in all but one of the states Congressional districts  same as before. The map packed as many Black Alabamians as possible into one congressional district to make certain they wouldnt have political sway in any others.

Two sets of Black plaintiffs  known as the Milligan plaintiffs and the Caster plaintiffs  sued, taking the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.

It should have been home-cooking for Alabama in front of what is seen as a more conservative court, but the states attorneys attempted to use the case to gut whats left of the Voting Rights Act. The state overreached and spooked justices who might otherwise have been open to more incremental weakening of voter protections.

Instead, the court ruled for the plaintiffs and ordered the state to draw a second majority Black district or something close to it.

At every step, at every level, the courts have sided with the plaintiffs in this case. That should have been a sign it was a stinker.

Despite this, the Alabama Attorney Generals office refused to take no for an answer. Alabama Solicitor General Edmund LaCour urged Alabama lawmakers to defy the federal courts. According to sworn testimony from Republican lawmakers, he even helped draw a new set of non-compliant maps.

When Alabamas attorneys returned to court for a silly, pathetic do-over attempt  a Milligan mulligan  the lower court justices, including Trump appointees to the bench, seemed dumbfounded by the states obstinance.

Alabama lost again, and it appealed to the Supreme Court again.

This time, the high court didnt bother humoring the state with a hearing. It shut the state down without further arguments.

Last month the plaintiffs submitted their expenses to the state, and the state agreed to pay them  $3 million for the Milligan plaintiffs and $2.25 million for the Caster plaintiffs.

But heres the thing. Its still not over.

Despite this process having taken nearly three years, all of the rulings so far have technically been the product of preliminary hearings and rulings. Alabama officials now seem to want another round  a full trial  next year.

Never mind they would go before the same judges with the same witnesses and the same evidence. Forget that they would inevitably go back to the same U.S. Supreme Court that has already ruled against Alabama twice.

Alabama officials still havent given up.

Twice, Alabama has enacted discriminatory congressional maps. And twice federal courts have struck them down, said Deuel Ross, a lawyer for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund who is representing the Milligan plaintiffs. Rather than going to trial next year and wasting more resources to defend the indefensible, state funds would be better spent on supporting the people of Alabama.

But we will keep on paying  in tax dollars, in teachers, health and highway workers.

Because this is Alabama, where our officials will spare no expense before admitting they were ever wrong.
Backers of red snapper legislation advancing in the United States Senate say it could protect the United States market from illegal Mexican fishing  though its approach relies on technology that has yet to be developed.

In fact, a bill backed by three Republican senators -- Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, along with Ted Cruz of Texas -- is a call for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to figure out the methodology needed to create nationality field test kits for red snapper. It sets a two-year deadline.

If enacted, the legislation would give the under secretary of commerce for standards & technology and the director of the NIST, a position currently held by Laurie Locascio, a two-year deadline. It calls for the under secretary to work with the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to develop a joint standard of methodology based on chemical analysis for identifying the country of origin of red snapper.

By the two-year deadline, the under secretary would be required to submit a report that sums up the methods developed as well as a plan for operationalizing the methodology. Thats clarified elsewhere as a field kit that can be easily carried by one individual, involves minimal processing time, and its otherwise suited to the needs of law enforcement officers in the field.

A news release from Britts office said that on Wednesday the bill was advanced by the Senate Commerce Committee, making it eligible for consideration by the full Senate.

Red snapper is a core component of Coastal Alabamas economy, and Im proud to fight to protect our hardworking fishermen and food producers, Britt said in her release. This bill would combat malicious, illegal activity by cartel-backed poachers who are endangering the livelihoods of law-abiding Americans and encroaching on our territorial sovereignty. Im thankful to Senator Cruz for shepherding this important legislation to ensure fairness for U.S. fishermen and families through the Senate Commerce Committee. Senator Schumer should now bring this commonsense legislation to the floor.

Britt and Tuberville say Mexican fishermen in small boats illegally catch snapper in U.S. waters. The fish are sold in Mexico or mixed in with legally-caught red snapper then exported back into the United States across land borders, both have said.

Britts release says that with the help of machine learning, NIST scientists are currently able to chemically determine the geographic origin of foods, including strawberries, apples, cherries, ginseng, ginkgo, beef, honey, and rice. Using those same methodologies, these scientists believe it would be possible to determine the geographic origin of red snapper.

A request for comment from the NIST was pending as this story was published.

Statements from Britt and Tuberville have also used the phrasing that The same fishing boats and fishermen who catch red snapper also smuggle drugs and humans for the [Mexican] cartels, and these profits support the organization. Scant evidence for this is presented. Both senators cite a RAND think tank report presenting Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing as a major risk to U.S. maritime security. That RAND report, which generally emphasizes administrative approaches to the IUU fight, does make passing reference to the possibility of involuntary labor aboard illegal fishing ships. But on that point it cites a New Yorker article about illegal Chinese fishing fleets operating around the world; the New Yorker story makes no reference to Mexican cartels, drug trafficking or red snapper.

An aide for Britt offered additional references, including a Brookings Institution report, cited by National Geographic, saying that Chinas appetite for wildlife products has created a lucrative opportunity for the Sinaloa Cartel and other groups in Mexico. While the report doesnt touch on snapper, it does assert that the Mexico-China connection has motivated organized crime groups to systematically move in on illegal and legal fisheries in general.

National Public Radio and Texas Monthly reports on the snapper battle also report widespread suspicion among Texas fisherman and law enforcement agencies that cartels are involved, for example by supplying new boats to fishermen whose boats are confiscated over IUU. The same qualities that make Mexican lanchas suited for poaching  speed, maneuverability and a low profile  make them equally well suited to drug-running, fueling suspicion of overlap between the two illicit businesses. The U.S. Coast Guard has stopped numerous lanchas involved in illicit fishing and also has said they are frequently used to transport illegal narcotics to the U.S.

Given the nature of organized crime, documenting and quantifying the cartel connection is tough. But no one seems to dispute that snapper poaching is a real and lucrative draw for Mexican fishermen capable of reaching waters off Texas. Taken together, reports on the snapper issue also highlight a nagging enforcement issue: Its possible to catch illegal fishers in U.S. waters, but the available legal punishments dont prevent them from rapidly returning to the same work. And once snapper hits the dock, its hard to prove where it came from.

There seems to be widespread agreement that IUU fishing is a problem with serious economic and environmental consequences. In 2023 Mexico joined dozens of countries, including the United States, in an international agreement designed to combat it. Britt and Tuberville have said that if their proposed testing for red snapper is successful, this method could be expanded to identify other IUU fish.

Alabama lands 34 percent of all recreationally caught Red Snapper in the Gulf, Tuberville said in a March statement. Unfortunately, our domestic Red Snapper industry is being undermined by Mexican fishermen who are illegally catching these fish in the Gulf, smuggling them into Mexico, and then reselling the same fish back to Americans. In addition to taking business away from Alabamian fisherman, many of the profits from these illegal fishing operations are funding the cartels. Im proud to join Senator Cruz in introducing the Illegal Red Snapper Enforcement Act to stop illegal Red Snapper from flooding our markets and bankrupting our great fishermen.
After more than a year of looming over the Birmingham skyline, Alexander Shunnarah is giving up his place on one of the states largest billboards.

The sign atop the Two North 20th Building is losing its advertisement for the Call Me Alabama! celebrity attorney.

According to Laurel, Miss.- based advertising firm Trailhead Medias CEO Randy Otto, a billboard for Alabama A&M will take its place for at least the next nine months. The sign was placed there Wednesday morning.

Attempts to reach Shunnarah for comment were not immediately successful.

The 179-by 25-foot sign on top of the 17-story building at Morris Avenue has been a feature of Birminghams skyline for more than 50 years.

It was formerly an electronic sign with more than 1,330 lights, projecting changing messages.

The sign went dark in 1988, and was briefly reactivated in 1996 and 2001. Then it was sold in 2013.
Authorities have released the name of a man who died shortly after police found him running in and out of traffic on an Irondale roadway.

The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the man as Phillip David Reeder. He was 52 and lived in Vincent.

Irondale police officers were dispatched at 5:10 a.m. Tuesday on several 911 calls reporting the mans behavior on Highway 78 near Old Leeds Road.

Lt. Jason Hill said the officers found Reeder 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 at 6:34 a.m.

His cause of death is pending additional laboratory studies.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is leading the investigation, which is standard policy for in-custody deaths.
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.

2024 Tampa Bay Times. Visit tampabay.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
An alliance with Hezekiah Jackson IV was known to make or break campaigns in Birmingham and Jefferson County.

For decades, politicians and political hopefuls made a visit to Jackson among their first campaign stops.

Jackson, the former longtime president of the Metro Birmingham Branch of the NAACP, died Tuesday after an extended illness. He was 65 years old.

He had a level of intellect like none other. He understood the dynamics of politics, said, State Rep. Juandalynn Givan, a longtime friend of Jackson. Hezekiah was always the person that most elected officials around here went to  black, white, Democrat and Republican.

Visitation will be Friday from 1-6 p.m. at 45th Street Missionary Baptist Church. His funeral will be held Saturday at 12:30 p.m. at Sardis Missionary Baptist Church.

Jackson was a fixture in Birminghams political, civic, and social scene.

Givan said Jackson was widely respected for his devotion to senior citizens and others who were routinely overlooked.

Every program was geared toward honoring someone who normally would not have the opportunity to be on the big stage, Givan told AL.com. And thats something that he did that nobody else did, Givan said. For him, it ultimately boiled down to service  helping somebody along the way.

Regina Carr-Hope said she met Jackson decades ago when he came to dinner at her familys home.

He was for everybody, said Carr-Hope, a former principal of Wenonah High School. He has helped so many people in this city and other cities and states as well. He would travel wherever there was a problem. Whatever he was working with, hed put his entire mind, body and soul into it.

On a personal side, Jacksons friends each described his flamboyant one-a-kind clothing style that became a trademark.

Hezekiah was a whole universe within itself, Givan said. He was true to who he was. He didnt try to pretend to be anything else other than Hezekiah Jackson.

Jackson ran for Birmingham city council in 2005. He also served as a committee assistant for two members of the Birmingham City Council.

And his long public career also came with controversy.

The national NAACP in 2018 suspended Jacksons membership and leadership of the Birmingham chapter following allegations that he worked with companies to convince residents of north Birmingham to refuse to have their soil tested for possible toxins from nearby manufacturing plants.

Jacksons involvement was alleged during the trial of Balch & Bingham attorney Joel Gilbert and Drummond Company VP Dave Roberson . Both men were convicted on six criminal charges of bribery, conspiracy, money laundering and three counts of honest services wire fraud.

Former State Rep. Oliver Robinson, who pleaded guilty to charges related to the scandal, testified that he paid Jackson in cash to help in the conspiracy.

Jackson vehemently denied the allegations. He was never charged with a crime.

He was denied the opportunity to defend himself, said Terry Collins, a former NAACP vice president who served under Jackson. The fact that he was not prosecuted, then I would have to assume they found no evidence to support the allegation.

The Metro Birmingham Branch NAACP held a press conference at Kelly Ingram Park August 8, 2011 to announce opposition to the sale of the beds at the Jefferson County Nursing Home. NAACP president Hezekiah Jackson (center) states their position. (FILE: The Birmingham News Linda Stelter)Linda Stelter

Collins said Jacksons decades of leadership were marked by strong community and civic involvement.

During the 20 years he helped hundreds of people in many different ways, and he honored probably thousands of people. Collins said. With his position with the NAACP we had at least one program a month where he honored people for their contributions in the community.

Collins said Jackson raised money to open a physical office for Birminghams NAACP chapter. All the while, Jackson was not paid for his service or time, Collins noted.

Collins listed several initiatives and projects that Jackson led.

Im excited to talk about Hezekiah, because he came in years later but picked up where we left off, said Collins, who was a civil rights foot soldier in Birmingham during the civil rights era.

Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson credits Jackson, a former Birmingham neighborhood president and officer, for encouraging her involvement in leadership and politics.

Hezekiah started training me and wanting me to be a neighborhood officer, Tyson recalled.

Jackson previously served as president of Birminghams Inglenook Neighborhood and the East Birmingham Community He rose to serve as president of the citys Citizens Advisory Board, the umbrella organization for Birminghams neighborhood associations.

He just did everything he could to try to help the community. He set an example like that, Tyson said. It was the forgotten people that he served.

Jackson served as a representative sent to Washington D.C. when the city of Birmingham launched its campaign to have the Civil Rights District declared a national monument. Paulette Roby also served alongside him during the trip.

Roby is the chair of the Birmingham Civil Rights Activist Committee.

Hezekiah has been a mentor to so many organizations and helping them get off the ground, telling and leading us on which way we should do this and do that, Roby said. If he was able to help you, he would help you, and if he couldnt, he would put you in touch with someone that could.

Roby paused when thinking about the final days of her friends life.

He got us ready for this and in the last message I got from him, he thanked me for being a part of his fabulous life he said, and Ill see you on the other side.

Hope also paused when describing Jackson and summarizing his impact.

He had a different kind of DNA, and it was a DNA for wanting to help people, she said. His ultimate legacy is people, doing the right thing for people, his community, his family, and for God. He did it his way.
Boaz police have arrested a man they say stabbed a person Wednesday morning and prompted a lockdown at area schools.

According to police, officers responded to a call on Verbon Street at about 9:55 a.m. to find a person with severe cuts. The victim gave police the name of the person they said stabbed them, who left the area on foot.

The victim was transported to Marshal Medical Center South and flown out by helicopter.

Area schools, including Snead State Community College, were placed on lockdown.

About two hours later, police located Donny Nennis, 23, of Boaz, who they said was hiding behind a residence on Williams Street. Nennis is being held in the Boaz City Jail.

The Marshall County Drug Task Force, Etowah and Marshall County Sheriffs Offices, Douglas, Sardis, Albertville and Snead State police departments assisted in the search.
The most recent climate stupidity suggests that American factories report their greenhouse gas emissions. As we learned from our countrys first cap-and-trade rule in California, reporting led to required reduction of clean-burning natural gas. Most factories in California have closed because of that rule. It required a 75-percent reduction of natural gas  the factories only heat source  over five years.

Combustion of natural gas (methane) produces CO2 and H2O, the two building blocks of photosynthesis and organic life on this planet. It is harmless and most likely beneficial to the environment.

At our gas-physics Weights and Measures facility in California, we tested carbon dioxide. It cools about the same as dry air: 20 degrees in less than 4 minutes. It cannot possibly retain heat from day to day (global warming). We also tested our humid atmosphere, including the trace gases therein. That cools about 1 degree every 32 minutes or 20 degrees in roughly 11 hours. These tests prove that no gas  not carbon dioxide, nitrogen, methane, nor even humid air  retains heat from day to day.

The scientific reality is, there is no such thing as a greenhouse gas.

So what is the source of the false greenhouse theory? More importantly, why is it wrong?

After Al Gore arranged $22 billion annually for universities to study global warming, professors dredged up the old greenhouse theory to justify regulating carbon dioxide. John Tyndalls experiment and thirty-six-page paper, written in 1861, is the much referenced scientific study behind the greenhouse theory and global warming.

No new significant science has been added to the greenhouse theory since the paper was written. Advocates even use some of Tyndalls exact words from the paper.

John Tyndall spent two years building a large device that used a galvanometer indicator to measure gas temperature. The galvanometer did not quantify temperature; it measured only the movement of a gauge with gradation marks from 0 to 100. His use of an indicator with no calibrated temperature numbers led to his false conclusion, as you will read below.

On page three of his study, Tyndall described his measuring chamber as polished brass with rock-salt lenses at each end. The subject gas would be trapped inside the brass chamber, and he produced heat that passed through both rock-salt lenses to a sensing device. Sensing at the end of the chamber was a thermopile, which detects heat emanating through air. It then sent a variable current to the galvanometer indicator.

Tyndall should have simply used a bi-metal temperature gauge, which had been invented about sixty years prior. It seems that since the galvanometer and the thermopile devices were new inventions, he wanted to use them.

Tyndall noted that the galvanometers needle wagged like a compass. This was likely caused by the thermopile, which is affected by open-atmosphere interference. He made his first attempt to mitigate this by saying, I therefore sought to replace the Berlin coil with a less magnetic one. So the galvanometer that he had purchased was degraded to be less sensitive and less accurate.

We never would have given our Weights and Measures approval for John Tyndalls device due to this and several other reasons.

The inaccuracy resulted in Tyndall listing air as absorbing 0 temperature. This proves the inaccuracy. Dry air absorbs about 22 degrees on average each day. For example, Death Valley has very dry air, and it absorbs an extreme amount of heat.

Then Tyndall lists in increasing temperatures carbonic oxide, carbonic acid, nitrous oxide, and olefiant gas. Olefiant gas is ethylene, which is the largest molecule in the group. These are called compound molecules because they are two or more connected atoms, like CO2. Air is a mixture of unconnected atoms, mostly oxygen and nitrogen. When Tyndalls galvanometer registered 1 on a scale of 100 for air and 70.3 for another gas (on pages 79), Tyndall concluded that the latter gas absorbed 70.3 times more temperature than air.

At this point, he ended his testing of relative temperature absorption to surmise what is now the greenhouse theory: since air absorbs almost no temperature, it is, in Tyndalls words, transparent to the rays of the sun, which penetrate the air to warm the Earths surface. Some temperature that is absorbed by Earth is radiated back up, and such small amount of temperature is absorbed by larger compound-molecule gases (greenhouse gases in todays jargon).

This sounds good. However, the inaccuracy of Tyndalls instrument and measuring air at near zero temperature led to his false conclusion about a so-called greenhouse effect.

The temperature he was measuring was obviously extremely low and below the accuracy range of his instrument. Consider that the temperature of a single candle-type flame under a copper chamber filled with water, then through the copper wall, then through a rock-salt lens, into a brass chamber that would have leaked temperature, then through another rock-salt lens, then through open atmosphere, could have been below one degree Fahrenheit for all we know. All the temperatures would have been within one degree of each other, not 70 times greater.

Throughout the final pages of his paper, Tyndall discussed these so-called enormous differences  when, in fact, they were likely so small that accurately measured results would disprove his greenhouse theory.

Our experiments proved this to be true. The cooling time of dry air and carbon dioxide are very nearly the same. There is little difference in heat absorption between small-molecule gases and large-molecule gases.

It is water vapor that retains the vast amount of heat, not the size of the molecule. Large-molecule (compound) gases retain heat for minutes, not days. There is no such thing as a greenhouse gas or any gas, including vaporous air, that retains heat from day to day (global warming). Greenhouse gases are a scientific myth.

The author owned a Weights and Measures gas-physics test facility. A condensed version of the authors paper Three Proofs Carbon Dioxide Causes No Warming in the Atmosphere  No Gas Causes Warming is in his book The Ladder Out of Poverty (ch. 11).

Image Wouter van Reeven via the European Space Agency, CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO.
This is an interesting situation. As Kamala rises in the polls, the stock market declines. Are the two linked? Probably not, but who knows?

As of today, the Kamala bounce seems to be real. A Morning Consult poll from early this month has Harris up by 4 over Trump. This is a massive poll of 11,000+ registered voters, supposedly giving it more credibility. But what would be more convincing would be a more targeted poll of likely voters. One key takeaway from this poll is that Kamalas popularity may have peaked at 50% and is now moving down.

In what might be a case of polling schizophrenia, a recent Rasmussen Reports poll has Trump ahead by 4. At nearly the same time, a more recent survey from Scott Rasmussens RMG Research showed that Kamala was up by 4. Figure that out.

Clearly, Democrats were in a state of panic regarding Joe Biden. Now that that crisis has passed and they have a candidate who can speak undemented though circular English, almost every leftist organization is in a state of verbal orgasmic euphoria. But is this the result of irrational enthusiasm? Plugged-in Democrat David Axelrod seems to think so and warned his party that it is absolutely Trumps race to lose right now.

So Axelrods message to freaked out Trump-supporters is to get a grip. Remember that the Real Clear Politics polling average of a five-way race has Kamala up by just a fraction. On this date in 2016, the RCP average had Hillary up by almost 7.

Trumps support in swing states appears to have declined. But that would be expected, considering that Biden dropped out of the race and Trumps polling bumps from the convention and the attempted assassination are fading. Lets take a look.

In Arizona, Trump is up by 2 in the RCP average, based on the strength of just two polls. An Emerson poll had Trump up by 8 on Jul. 23, followed by Morning Consult five days later, with Harris up by 4. I am not buying a 12-point swing in less than a week. In the FiveThirtyEight average, Trump is up by almost 2. Here, the Morning Consult poll with Harris at 4 was followed by two other polls showing Trump ahead.

At the FiveThirtyEight average for Georgia, Morning Consult has the race tied. Two other polls show roughly the same. Trumps lead of 0.8 is based on polls taken just a few days earlier. The RCP average has Trump at 1.7, again on the strength of two polls taken before Jul. 28.

Both polling averages have Harris ahead in Michigan. The RCP average has her up by 2.7, and the FiveThirtyEight average has her up by 2. Both results are due to a Morning Consult poll where the numbers flip from Trump up by a point or two to Harris up by 12 within two to four days. Seriously? This is a poll where 71% said the country was on the wrong track. I find it hard to believe that voters in Michigan hate Trump so much that they will back a San Francisco socialist. Sorry, not buying it.

In Nevada, we have confusion. The RCP average isnt really an average. It is just the Morning Consult state poll showing a tie. There is no FiveThirtyEight average. There is just a list of polls showing Trump ahead by varying amounts, with the Morning Consult poll showing a tie. If I do a realistic average of post-Joe drop-out polls, I get Trump +1.

In North Carolina, we have more of the same. The only poll for the RCP average is  you guessed it  a Morning Consult poll with Trump up by 1. Again, there is no number for the FiveThirtyEight average; it is just a list. If I do another post-Joe average of the polls, I get Trump +2.

Moving on to Pennsylvania, the RCP average has Kamala up by a hair. The FiveThirtyEight average has Harris up by 1. Surprisingly, Morning Consult has Trump up by 2.

Finally, the RCP average in Wisconsin has Trump ahead by a fraction. The FiveThirtyEight average has Harris up by 1.6. If you are having difficulty figuring out how they calculated that number, please remember that FiveThirtyEight uses a weighted averaging technique based on accuracy estimates. Speaking of accuracy, I want to remind everyone that FiveThirtyEight had Biden over Trump by more than 8 points in Wisconsin in 2020. Joe won by less than a point.

One of the inherent drawbacks of public opinion polls is most news and polling organizations have a left or left-of-center bias. This means their inclination is to lean toward or support left-wing ideologies linked to the Democrat party. I dont want to pick on any particular organization and claim that it is deliberately biased because that is difficult to prove. However, even if bias is not deliberate, it sometimes creeps in. This is why Republicans usually do better than predicted in presidential election years.

The problem with reading polls right now is that there has been a significant amount of political change in a short time. Joe Bidens approval numbers had been underwater since the military pulled out of Afghanistan in 2021. His poll numbers got worse after his recent debate with Trump, whereas Trumps soared. Trump also benefited from the Republican Convention and his narrow escape from death at the hands of a would-be assassin. Now that Biden has been replaced with Harris, the pendulum has swung the other way. This has nothing to do with Kamala being a stand-alone candidate. It is simply the fact that she is not Biden.

During the next few weeks, the left-wing media blitz will likely hold sway until after the Democrat Convention. Harris could rise even farther in the polls.

Unfortunately for her, she can rise only so far. Prices for gasoline, food, and rent remain a challenge for over half the population. Immigration and crime are still serious issues. Unemployment could become an issue.

Im sure there are a lot of Democrats and probably some independents who are thrilled to have a woman running for president. But that is not an overly persuasive issue. It is still crime and the economy, stupid! So it is still Trumps game to lose.

The key thing is to take the poll numbers with a grain of salt.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
On August 2, many news outlets reported that the autopsy of Thomas Matthew Crooks had been released by the Butler County Coroners Office. The fact is that mainstream media are late to the party, and the Butler County Coroners Office released the cause and manner of death of Thomas Matthew Crooks to AbleChild nearly two weeks earlier on July 21.

Unfortunately, what the mainstream media dont understand is that the cause and manner of death are not an autopsy, and although an autopsy has already been conducted on the alleged body of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the results of that autopsy may never see the light of day.

Thats right. Along with so many other aspects of this investigation, the public may never get to know the details of the alleged assassins autopsy. And although the autopsy shuffle is interesting, the questions regarding chain of custody of that body that need to be asked of the Butler County coroner, William F. Young III, are even more compelling. So lets first recap the case of the missing autopsy.

Ablechild contacted the Allegheny County Medical Examiners Office to obtain a copy of the autopsy, and heres what we learned. According to news reports, apparently, at some point early Sunday morning, July 14, the alleged shooters body was transferred to the Allegheny County Medical Examiners Office for autopsy. What transportation did the Butler County coroner use? Nobody knows. The autopsy was conducted (no one will say when), and the autopsy was completed (no one knows when), and results were sent to the coroners office in Butler County (nobody knows the date).

Heres where the results of the autopsy being publicly released get muddled. Apparently, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania mandates that Allegheny County release full autopsy reports to journalists and the public. Yeah! But not so fast. When requested by AbleChild, the Allegheny County Medical Examiners Office refused to release the autopsy because  wait for it  the autopsy was completed and commissioned [paid for] by Butler County and all information relating to the case must go through Butler County. Huh? Because Butler County paid for the autopsy, Allegheny County cannot make public the autopsy? You cant make this up.

Though great efforts were made, AbleChild could not find any change in Pennsylvania law or regulations that exempts release of Allegheny County autopsies because another county paid for them. Furthermore, the Butler County coroner will not release the autopsy to anyone other than the next of kin (who have remained silent except for the father stating, I gotta pee) and legal representatives, falling back on a single court case: Penn Jersey Advance, Inc. v. Grim, 962 A.2d 632 (Pa. 2009). The Right to Know laws in Pennsylvania apparently mean nothing.

Is anyone surprised that the autopsy is apparently a commonwealth secret? Nothing regarding the physical evidence surrounding this case has been made public. So the Butler County coroner (who may or may not have a medical/legal/investigative background and usually is an elected position) has some explaining to do.

AbleChild left messages for an interview with William F. Young III, the Butler County coroner, but they have not been returned. Because the coroner will not take our questions, well make them public. Maybe somebody can provide some answers.

First, according to a July 17, 2024, article in the Butler Eagle newspaper by Eddie Trizzino, the Butler County Coroner William F. Young III, was unable to attend the campaign rally for former President Trump on Saturday July 13, because of other engagements, but he found himself at the Butler Farm Show grounds after midnight Sunday to examine the victim who was shot at the rally. The article points out that the coroner and another deputy later returned after 6 a.m. to the American Glass Research (AGR) International building, where he climbed onto its roof to confirm the death of Thomas Matthew Crooks. Really?

The coroner and his deputy returned after 6 a.m. ... to the AGR buildingwhere he climbed onto its roof to confirm the death[.] Hmmm. Thats odd, leaving one to wonder about many things. First, assuming that no one moved the body of the alleged shooter (that chain of custody thing), that means that the body lay on the AGR building roof from when the alleged assassin was shot, six-thirtyish P.M., July 13, until twelve hours later at 6 A.M.ish, July 14. Did the coroner get instructions to come back to the crime scene the next morning? By whom? The FBI and the Secret Service? Why? What was going on at the crime scene that the coroner was denied access to the crime scene and the victims body? Plus the coroner released the death certificate, testifying that he identified and determined the cause of death on the thirteenth day of July. That is not true, because he returned to the crime scene at 6 A.M. on July 14.

Further, if the body lay on the AGR building roof all night, who (what law enforcement entity) would be tasked with securing the building? Please dont say the Secret Service or the FBI. Seriously, this is all about chain of custody. Certainly, the body of the alleged would-be assassin did not remain on the roof all night without some law enforcement security. We need to know who that was.

Next, given that the alleged assassin did not have any identification on his person, by what method did the coroner identify the body? Further, the FBI has announced that it identified the alleged weapon used in the shooting by serial number. When the coroner climbed up on the roof at 6 A.M., was the weapon still on the roof, undisturbed, and part of the crime scene? Did the coroner take photographs of the body on the roof (crime scene)?

Finally, there are photographs of FBI personnel hosing off the roof of the AGR building. Did the coroner request that the FBI take this action? If so, why would the coroner request that the investigative body remove evidence from a crime scene it was investigating. This seems odd. Was there no other outside entity available to the coroner?

Naturally, there are many questions about the coroners actions regarding the crime scene. But AbleChild is interested in knowing the results of the autopsy to rule out any mental health medications that may have been in the alleged shooters system at the time of death. Too often, these killers have been medicated with serious psychiatric mind-altering drugs. Although the FBI reports that the alleged shooter was not suffering from a mental illness or medicated, the autopsy and toxicology report would put the matter to bed.

Clearly, there were numerous failures on July 13. Must the failure to provide the public with important physical evidence about the alleged shooter be added? The public needs to know whether a projectile was removed from the body of the alleged shooter, and did that projectile match the reported snipers weapon? Is the wound to the alleged victims head indicative of the alleged trajectory of the snipers bullet? These are basic questions that may be answered by the autopsy results...or not. Either way, the public has a right to know.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Not too long ago, Joe Biden had it made. The Democrat convention was approaching, he had the delegates, and he was going to be the nominee.

He rigged the Democrat primaries for himself, shut out all competition, kneecapped Bobby Kennedy's independent campaign, and if all else failed, tried through various means -- court and otherwise -- to eliminate his main rival, President Trump.

But he got hit from a direction from which he wasn't looking -- his own party majordomos, who engineered his "easy way or hard way" ouster, ushering in Kamala Harris instead. Harris was stupid. Harris was his "insurance." But Harris had ideas of her own and ran away with it. Now she has risen in the polls as he hasn't and the mainstream media are in full-throated cheerleading mode in ways he never got.

Now he's reportedly seething.

Here's what President Trump's close advisor, Stephen Miller, tweeted out:

Buzz growing that Biden regrets caving to the coup after Kamala seismically botched the VP pick by surrendering to the Jew-haters. She showed tremendous cowardice exiling Shapiro for a socialist and Biden is fuming that he let donors extort him out by freezing his campaign funds.  Stephen Miller (@StephenM) August 6, 2024

Here's what Trump himself is hearing:

WHOA - Trump predicts Biden might try to take back the nomination at the DNC after it was stolen by Kamabla



What does Trump know that we dont?! pic.twitter.com/AGv8zGcLKV  DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) August 6, 2024

Meanwhile, Tom Bevan at RealClearPolitics noticed a curiously empty schedule for Biden, and not for the first time:

Another day, another blank schedule for Biden.



(ps. At least he's getting his PDF before mid-afternoon today) https://t.co/lHEp7DRax9 pic.twitter.com/p5AL4Zp8Hq  Tom Bevan (@TomBevanRCP) August 7, 2024

Could Trump and Miller just be spitballin,' trying to sow discord among the Democrats?

A couple of factors say 'no':

One, Joe Biden fought hard to hold his place as the Democrat nominee in the coming election. First, he said he was running, even as other Democrats tried to stop him, and he said his health and sentience was perfect.

This video, dating from February, by the Hindustan Times, gives the flavor:

His 'amen' corner among the Democrats continued with that lie about his sentience until, post-debate, it was too obvious to ignore. Yet right to the last day, he said he was fit as a fiddle and would never step down.

Obviously, he was pushed, and he didn't like it. His speech to the nation was oddly muted and lacking in detail. He never said in that speech that he was stepping down because he was going senile. Perhaps he was keeping some powder dry for events to come.

The other thing is, Trump doesn't like to connive. He likes to spill secrets, tell us things he's hearing, say the obvious thing that everyone is murmuring. That's his style. That he and Miller could launch a disinformation effort the way Democrats and their Russian allies do doesn't sound credible. The two of them probably are hearing something, even though the comeback idea sounds farfetched, and can't hold it in.

So the story is out: Biden is seething, bitter, disgusted with Kamala's bad judgment in picking the buffoonish Tim Walz over more moderate Josh Shapiro, looking for a way to regain his grasp on power, and no longer motivated to do his job as president of the United States.

Biden must be thinking about it even if he's now powerless.

He's oddly absent with that empty schedule as the world is burning -- in the Middle East, in South Asia, in Venezuela, and in Western Europe. The media is focused on gushing about the Kamala campaign, but who's running the store in this now-lame-duck presidency isn't obvious.

All that tells us is that Kamala isn't as secure in her TikTok candidacy as suggested. That means Biden may be looking for some way to throw a spanner in the gears if he can't retake his position as nominee the way he might hope. Maybe he will just burn it all down on the way out.

Unlike Trump, Biden does plot, and he takes a lot of revenge on his enemies. If Democrats could plot against him, why wouldn't he plot back to take the whole miserable house of cards down, too? He probably will fail, and once again, stew in his bitterness.

If so, couldn't happen to a nicer guy who did so much damage to our country. Biden set the rules on manipulating elections, and in the end got beaten by fellow Democrats at his own game, his own rules he thought he was master of.

Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive.

Image: Screen shot from Hindustan Times video, via YouTube
A camera inside a house caught this bad (but fortunate) dog in the act of burning down his owners house, and now fire officials are using this video as a cautionary tale against the dangers of lithium-ion batteries and rechargeable electronics:

NEW: Dog starts a house fire in Tulsa, Oklahoma after chewing through a portable lithium-ion battery.



The Tulsa Fire Department released the following video to warn people about the "dangers of lithium-ion batteries."



Two dogs and a cat were filmed hanging out before one pic.twitter.com/skTb8YEzJ6  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) August 6, 2024

According to an online report, the fire was destructive and caused significant damage to the home but miraculously, no one was hurt, and the three pets seen in the video all got out of the home through a doggie door; firefighters also took the opportunity to remind people of this:

Lithium-ion batteries can explode and spark fires when damaged or even if they are just overheated. Fire officials say its important to only use approved chargers for them and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

You know what we should do? We should take these batteries that can spontaneously explode if damaged or overheated, which are so temperamental that they should be kept away from pets and children, and we should install them in cars, and planes, and tanks, and emergency service vehicles, and transport trucks, and trains, and in storage facilities at solar farms in the blistering Arizona desert, and out on the salty sea alongside the off-shore wind turbinesand, simultaneously, we should force everyone to surrender their gas-powered vehicles, and regulate coal and natural gas out of existence, all in the name of progressivism and protecting the environment.

Nevermind that lithium battery fires cant be extinguishedthe protocol is controlling the blaze as much as possible until it self-extinguishesand nevermind that they spew extra-toxic fumes into the air while burning because fossil fuels bad. (Oil isnt actually a fossil fuel, but a true renewable energy source.)

Now of course this isnt to suggest this house fire started by a lithium-ion battery is nearly as polluting as a burning battery plantlike the one in San Diego that burned for weeks and forced the city to fly in experts to present a mitigation planbut modern house fires are polluting in their own right, because of all the synthetic materials that compose much of our modern world. Some of the most dangerous pollutants come from burning plastics, and plastics are insinuated into nearly everything, from the furnishings we see in this room to the building materials.

And, check this out:

Lithium-ion batteries are such a toxic nightmare, you cant even throw them away without putting the waste workers at risk. https://t.co/cvAe4X0ats  Olivia Murray (@americaliv1) August 7, 2024

As someone online quipped, these are mostly green fires!

Hat tip: Monica Showalter.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.
Illinois has been run by Democrats for years. Democrats are supposedly pro-union. Illinois is not a right-to-work state. Illinois Democrats pass all sorts of laws that force private companies to cave to unions, to the detriment of the employer and the business.

Illinois requires any business that receives government money to adhere to racist prevailing wage laws, a move which makes everything more expensive.

Yet somehow, these Democrats wont support their own employees to join a union. They fight them tooth and nail. From Patrick M. Keck at The State Journal-Register:

Illinois House Speaker's staff continues attempt to unionize Staffers attempting to unionize in House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welchs office are continuing their suit against the Hillside Democrat. The Illinois Legislative Staff Association filed a response on July 31 to the speaker's motion to dismiss their case, alleging Welch has failed to engage in collective bargaining. The association formed in 2022 after voters approved the Workers' Rights Amendment that November  codifying a worker's ability to organize and collectively bargain in the state constitution. The Illinois Public Labor Relations Act, Welchs attorneys write in their motion to dismiss, excludes employees of the Illinois General Assembly from its definition of a public employee thus providing them no pathway to unionize. This was also the finding of the Illinois Labor Relations Board when they denied the associations petition to form a bargaining unit in March 2023.

Look at the claim made by Welchs lawyers, as well as the ruling from the Illinois Labor Relations Boardthey claim that employees working in the legislature arent public employees. I would ask a simple question: Who the heck pays these legislative staffers? The answer is the taxpayers; of course they are public employees. Why should anyone respect a ruling from this board when theyre so pathetically biased and just plain illogical?

Where are Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Dick Durbin to demand that Democrats stop exploiting their workers?

It is actually very humorous and sad that these supposedly pro-union people who dictate what the private sector can and cant do, wont let their own employees join together and bargain for more benefits.

Think of some of the other things that rules-for-me-but-not-for-thee Democrats do:

They and their rich supporters send their kids to the schools of their choice, like the president of the Chicago Teachers Union Stacy Davis Gates did, but they block poor and minority children from having the freedom of choice to go to better schools.

They can challenge any election they like, but their political opposition cannot.

They claim they are for democracy and free and fair elections, but then they go and anoint Kamala who got no votes, and bulldoze over calls from their own constituents to hold a vote for a new candidate after Bidens withdrawal.

They fly around in private jets, live in mansions, and drive gas guzzlers, but they tell ordinary folks to give up all modern amenities and luxuries, like our cars, gas grills, hamburgers, and the ability to power our houses with affordable coal and natural gas, because were destroying the planet.

They say they are for pro-woman, but then they force females to compete against men in sports, and force them to be exposed to peckers in locker rooms.

They can spout whatever violent political rhetoric they want, but anyone who supports MAGA or President Trump is labeled an existential threat to the country.

Democrats are liars and hypocrites; all they want is power! The only place they seem to want freedom of choice is so they can abort babies throughout a pregnancy, no matter how viable a child is, just like China and North Korea.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.
As of January 2025, Rep. Cori Bush, like Rep. Jamaal Bowman, will no longer be a sitting member of Congress. During their primaries, both of their Democrat stronghold districts threw them over in favor of slightly more moderate candidates. This should delight all sane people. However, it would be a mistake to discount these two radicals because they represent a strong, growing, and increasingly outspoken cohort in the Democrat party.

After all, theyll have served four years in Congress, which means they are not the fringe; they are near the center of American power. And this cohort isnt just openly socialist on economic matters. In addition, like good socialists before them (e.g., Hitler, Stalin), theyre openly antisemiticsomething Cori Bush made clear in her post-defeat speech yesterday.

Normally, when candidates lose in a primary, they put on a good face for the sake of the party. They give a speech to their supporters thanking them for all their hard work, promising to keep fighting for the good fight and, if theyre feeling gracious, endorsing their opponent. It should not surprise anyone that Rep. Cori Bush, from St. Louis, Missouri, didnt do that.

Image: Cori Bush. X screen grab.

For the past four years, Bushs presence on the national stage has shown a woman who, despite being elevated to one of the highest seats of power in whats still the most powerful nation in the world, is filled with an overwhelming sense of grievance. Nothing will dissuade her from believing that she is persecuted, both individually and as a member of an allegedly disfavored group (i.e., black women).

Its as if the last 60 years in American politicsthe Civil Rights Movement, the feminist movement, Barack Obamas election, Kamala Harriss ascension, the cultural obeisance to blacks, especially black womennever happened. Bush is a victim, and shes angry about it.

Bushs speech reflected that anger. But it also reflected that she has a very specific target in mind for her persecution complex: The Jews:

Cori Bush continues: "And let me put all of these corporations on notice: I'm coming after you too. But I'm not coming by myself. I'm coming with all the people that's in here..." pic.twitter.com/gqQXO5DIPM  Mark Maxwell (@MarkMaxwellTV) August 7, 2024

Yes, having lost because shes done nothing good for her constituents but has occupied herself with radical views on national issues, Bush knows who is to blame: The American-Israel Political Action Committee.

As you can see, other parts of Bushs unhinged rants were generalized attacks on a good socialists ordinary targets: America and corporations (which is ironic, really, given that corporate America has dutifully fallen in line with CRT and DEI madness). However, it was only the Jewish interest group that she called out by name.

Bush isnt the only Democrat whos calling out Jews by name. When CNNs Jake Tapper was speaking to Abby Phillip and Audi Cornish for color commentary during what I assume was a Harris-Walz rally, Phillip talked about the fact that Kamala passed over Josh Shapiro in favor of Walz. She said that Kamala did so to reach 100,000 uncommitted voters who support Hamas:

And I think ultimately, Shapiro, I think fit is important, but, you know, I also think when you look at the principle of do no harm, maybe they did say in a state like Minnesota, do we want to, there were 100,000 uncommitted voters who came out about the Gaza war, do we want to antagonize those voters? Those are part of the question as well.

In other words, Kamala might have lost both Minnesota and Michigan if she chose a Jewish person as a running mate. Those 100,000 uncommitted voters will not vote for a Jew.

Fearing that Phillips and Cornish would say something openly antisemitic that couldnt be walked back, Tapper rushed in to point out that Shapiros line on the Israel-Gaza war is identical to the Democrat party line in general.

Cornish, however, was having none of it. The problem, she said, is that Shapiro dared to call the pro-Hamas protesters antisemitic. These were the same protesters calling to globalize the intifada and demanding that From the river to the sea, Palestine shall be free, both of which are code for slaughtering Israels Jews.

TAPPER: So, but, just to, just to, one point on the Gaza war. Shapiro has the same position on Israel that Gov. Walz, that Sen. Kelly has. He's actually been more critical of Netanyahu than the other two, but, he is Jewish. CORNISH: He's also the face of the crackdown on the protests, right? He spoke very vehemently about those protests as being antisemitic. TAPPER: Not all of them. The ones that were antisemitic he criticized for being antisemitic. CORNISH: Of course, but he was out front on the issue. So, I'm wondering if that's the kind of thing, again, for the activist wing of the party, was a slap in the face.

Open antisemitism is becoming an oozing sore on the Democrat party. Although Democrats are now claiming that Shapiro didnt want to be Veep, thats hard to believe given the partys obvious and growing commitment to its increasingly vocal antisemitic base.

No wonder that a shock poll out of New York State, which last gave its Electoral College votes to a Republican in 1984, suggests that the states Jewish population is shifting to Trump.

There are around 1.2 million Jewish adults (i.e., potential voters) in New York state. They have been utterly reliable Democrat votes. Their votes and their political donations (which are generous) matter.

From the Jewish perspective, this shift makes perfect sense. The Jews and the Democrats had had an unspoken compact, which was that the Democrats would protect Jews from antisemitism. In America, Democrats gave Jews jobs and access to college when the old white-shoe Republicans refused to hire them and shut them out of the Ivies. And while few Jews know that Franklin Roosevelt, in 1939, refused admission to more than 900 desperate refugees from Nazi Germany, with the result that over 250 died in the Holocaust, they do remember that Roosevelt beat Hitler.

Now, though, the Democrats have broken that compact. They are openly antisemitic, not just in terms of jobs and university admissions, but in terms of siding with Islams genocidal maniacs.

Jewish self-preservation is necessarily strong after 2,000 years of deadly persecution. The fact that New York voted for a Republican in 1984 is not a coincidence. It did the same in 1980. I know from my own family that many Jews were behind this. It wasnt because Jews loved Reagan. It was because they feared Jimmy Carters manifest hostility to Israel.

American Jews are loyal Americans. However, they recognize that Israel is a canary in the coal mine for the whole world. When the world loves Israel, Jews are safe. And when the world hates Israel, Jews are in danger. And when America hates Israel, for Jews, all bets are off.

Because American Jews have seen for the last nine months the damage one Israel-hating president can do, having a second, even more radical Israel-hater in the White House is a blaring siren, especially because of her base. No wonder theyre viewing Trump and the Republican party as their refuge.
In my opinion, were reaching unprecedented times regarding domestic and world morality.

It has been 305 days since Hamass Islamic radicals seized hundreds of hostages, both from Israel and other nations, including America. However, it seems that only Israel is trying to get its people out of captivity.

Not only is Israel the only one who cares, but a very large majority of the countries in the world also question Israels right to defend itself and destroy the radical Islamic threat. In fact, people in the West arent just challenging Israels right to self-defense; theyre actively supporting radical Islamic movements and state-sponsored terrorism. The protesters are out there for Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, the Houthis, Syria, Sudan, Turkey, Qatar, the Islamic State...

The US flag is being burned publicly without any outcry from the mainstream media and the Democrat political classes. Radical Islamic terrorists took down The American Flag and put The Hamas / Palestinian Flag in its place in Washington DC in broad daylight with the world watching, which is a felony, but the Harris-Biden administration did nothing.

Image: Queers for Palestine, a microcosm of immorality. X screen grab.

In the West, the dominant political and social powers have disrespect for religious beliefs as a mainstay of their beliefs. The Olympics opening ceremonies mocked The Last Supper, a staple belief of Christianity. The USA was built on Judeo-Christian values, and those values have become valueless.

Male chromosome athletes are beating up (literally) female chromosome athletes in Olympic competitions. I always thought a male raising a hand to a female was cowardly.

11 million illegal immigrants have crossed the US border. The result of this policy that ignores American law and destroys American sovereignty is a rash of murders, a drug epidemic, rape, sex trafficking, economic instability, and much more.

The leading candidate to become the next president was shot in an attempted assassination in broad daylight. The fact that the Secret Service and federal government as a whole are walking away unscathed, with only Kimberly Cheatle as a symbolic sacrifice, is immoral in my opinion. Political position and affiliation should not influence a near-tragic event that would have had historic ramifications.

The Democrat establishment, including the media, engaged in a mass act of deception against the American People when they covered up for months (maybe years) the fact that a president and presidential candidate was in failing mental health. These lies to The American People may become one of the biggest cover-ups in US History. The epic results of this deception can change the balance of stability in the US and the world.

Our entire election has been compromised because of these political lies. The Democrats knowingly advanced an incompetent candidate and then switched him out at the last minute for someone the American people hadnt selected via the usual primary vetting process. The very fabric of Americas integrity of its democracy has become questionable.

The last presidential election came into question because millions of people believe cheating affected the election results. There have been no notable changes in the voting system to ensure the results of the 2024 election will be authentic and fair.

No change means the same thing can happen again, and the fallout from this election can be much worse than the events that took place on January 6, 2021. We can be headed towards a revolution because no matter who wins the next election, the results will surely come into question. This could have been avoided because a better system should have been implemented to avoid questionable election results.

Everything described above reflects a moral breakdown. All are dishonest and indecent practices that have become the norm in a world that has parted ways from Judeo-Christian ethics and, politically, from the Constitution itself.

These are epic times and the choices we make will decide whether we are a moral people or an immoral people. We are choosingGood or Bad and Right or Wrongand our choices will determine the morality level for this era and those to come.

Pray, Vote, and Be Active.
It is nearly impossible to listen to the news, both conservative and liberal outlets, without hearing about the Harris Honeymoon and that it is ending soon. This is untrue and is tied to another untruth, which is that the public keeps being told that the countdown to the election is the countdown to November 05.

This is sheer ignorance. As of approximately one week ago, this was the news: Election Day is 100 days away, but some voters could cast their ballot in half that time.

In fact, Election Day is a dead concept. The Election Period is what matters.

Image: Kamalas honeymoon by Andrea Widburg, using AI.

On September 6, voting begins. From then, depending on the state, ballots can be cast for the November Election.

Biden dropped out on July 21.

Harris was crowned nominee on August 02.

The Dem convention is from August 19-22.

Excluding August 22, from the time the convention ends, there are 15 days until voting begins. Thats when Kamalas honeymoon gets its second wind:

The honeymoon phenomenon, [is that period of time] in which a newly elevated political leader gets positive press simply because of their newness. And the thing about honeymoons is that they eventually end.

Apparently, there are no boundaries for nominee honeymoons, so eventually ends is uncertain.

Once elected, a presidential honeymoon is said to be the first 100 days of the administration. That is in relation to the Congress. This is the time when congresspeople and the media dont criticize too much as they find their sea legs. (Democrats ignored this honeymoon period for Trump.)

In polls showing average presidential popularity, beginning with Gerald Ford, this honeymoon means presidents enjoy seven months of positive approval ratings. Kamala has no Congress to give her slack as she is not the elected president. So, her honeymoon period is all public popularity.

For now, she appears to be going gangbusters with the public:

This time around, Harris has masterfully played the inside game in lining up party support for her campaign, shes drawn enthusiastic crowds, and shes raised a gargantuan pile of cash. But there are other things she hasnt done yet. For instance: She hasnt given an interview or press conference since Biden quit, which is something Republicans are grousing about.

However, Vox, from which the above is quoted, suggests that some things, such as giving interviews or holding a press conference, may derail the Kamala train.

Realistically, it is a near certainty that a tough interview or press conference will not be held before the DNC. After all, Kamala has to deal with matters such as tanking the economy, intimidating Jews, killing Israelis, and making room for Venezuelans.

After the DNC, there will be rallies and affairs of state that will occupy her time, further lessening the likelihood of her having to answer questions.

On top of that, what media outlets, save the conservative media, will be callingreally callingfor her to speak without a teleprompter? The same media that brought us Russia! Russia! Russia!, promoted two impeachments, supported executing Donald Trump Jr., covered-up Hunters laptop?

Fat chance.

Given the time constraints and gross hostility of a huge percentage of the media to DJT and JDV and their flip side support of Kamala and (now) Walz, there is zip possibility that this honeymoon will end before the election. Relying on it to reverse Kamalas momentum is folly.

There is no honeymoon. There is no honeymoon to end. This is how it is and will be. The so-called honeymoon is what voters will see and hear until Election Period begins through November 5 or when enough votes are counted for Kamala to win, whichever comes first.

To paraphrase, Honeymoon? We aint got no honeymoon. We dont need no honeymoon.

They are the Democrats.
Could the Democrats really be stupid enough to pick the doughy, oafish, failed governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz as their bottom-of-the-ticket standard-bearer?

As the lefties said yesterday: Yes, they can. What's more, Harris is now ahead in some of the polls, because the TikTok generation is eating it up.

It's astonishing, really, given Walz's record, which in the past would have been poison to Democrats looking to win an election.

For starters, he's got a record to rival the mayor of Portland in seeing his state's top city turned into the new Detroit, letting his city burn. He waited five days to send in the National Guard as business after business were turned into smoldering ruins.

Jennifer Murphy wrote, "Ive taken the liberty of putting together a little cheat sheet on Governor Tim Walz



In 2020, during the George Floyd riots, Minneapolis mayor Jacob Frey requested the MN National Guard on day 2.

1)https://t.co/rVfA0u7pcK  SG (@GREENESJ333) August 6, 2024

Cops, of course, were not supported, he didn't have their backs:

Lets take a trip down memory lane. https://t.co/Xcy8jj7STV  Courage Is A Habit (@CourageHabit) August 6, 2024

This is Tim Waltz' America https://t.co/n8OezQwWsk  Kelly Leak (@BadKellyLeak) August 6, 2024

Walz and his disgusting wife actually embraced the George Floyd rioting as if it were the smell of freedom, instead of the stench of the fourth world.

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

And speaking of the fourth world, corruption of the kind seen up until now only in failed states got a foothold on Walz's watch with his immense COVID shovel-outs:

Walz oversaw a massive theft of taxpayer dollars by Somali refugees. https://t.co/N9ag6umVWp  Stephen Miller (@StephenM) August 6, 2024

Want more of that in your country, a nation of Minnesotas? Tim Walz is the man for it. And there are people who will vote for him!

The hard reality in all this record is that cities don't recover from that kind of mayhem, they stay hellholes for decades, and recover only very slowly with changed attitudes on riots, as gradually improving Detroit can attest. What Walz did was make his state's top city, one that was once known as "nice" into a smoldering pit of misery, a place people flee:

Minnesotans couldn't get out of that state fast enough.



**not even keeping up with birth & immigration rates!! pic.twitter.com/hxbzijoWVs   UltraMAGAcrowd! Elon, Hurry! Save this place! (@RidersDad) August 6, 2024

According to American Experiment:

And, as a recent report by labor market analytics firm Lightcast titled Minnesotas Vanishing Workforce, helpfully summarized by Axios, found: with total net migration of -17,365 between 2020 and 2022, Minnesota is in the top 10 states with the highest domestic outflows in the country.

Where are Minnesotans, and for that matter, all Americans, going to flee if Walz somehow gets into national power?

But to Harris, Walz sounds like just the guy to reward with the second slot on a presidential ticket. Records don't matter, and bad records are all the better.

Walz hates farmers and calls the rural parts of the state "mostly rocks and cows."

That's right, his state is one of the nation's top agricultural producers, and he thinks the cows just got there.

He also pees down voters' legs and tells them it's raining:

He was big on COVID lockdowns:

Tim Walz likes Executive Orders https://t.co/ANBMzxGySL  Annamaria (@lotusbeebee) August 6, 2024

"All for the greater good," he explained.

And he was a proud member of this hall-of-shame club, stating he had "no regrets."

Don't forget that he also was a bigtime demonizer of the safe and effective hydroxychloroquine treatment for COVID.

It's almost like he wanted them to die.

In addition, he put tampons in boys' restrooms in schools, and completely embraced transgender madness, making his state a sanctuary state for the castration of youngsters as 'gender-affirming care.' He also was big on abortion -- until the day of birth.

His military record is repulsive, having served in the National Guard and abandoned his unit when he learned it was heading to Iraq. He's been accused of stolen valor, as well, making a mockery of those who showed it.

In addition, he's also a convicted drunk driver.

Charlie Kirk has a good summary of Walz's string of 'accomplishments;:

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

Yet with a record like that, he's not box-office poison to the Democrats, he's just the guy to promote to the top of the ticket, as if Democrats have no one better out there. They did, but he was Jewish, so they weren't going to promote that.

They'd much rather promote the Minnesota model of failure throughout the entire U.S. so they are promoting this failure upward. Cynically, they don't care that voters don't approve of that record, they've got themselves convinced that they are so TikTokked in outlook they'll embrace Walz's down-home tubby check-shirt image over his record, just as they'll embrace Harris's racial diversity over her execrable record.

They must think they've got it rigged enough in the swing states to ensure that's nothing to worry about regarding the far-left, uberwoke records of either of them.

For the sake of the country, one can only hope it's not true, and word of the Walz record will shake voters to their senses.

Image: Twitter screen shot
Venezuela's democratic forces are a pretty observant lot, having spotted evidence of fraud in some background pictures of the regime's vote-counting houses as employees took selfies.

Now, one of them has spotted something interesting on dictator Nicolas Maduro's cell phone as he made a televised speech, in a whatsapp message from one of his closest lieutenants:

Image taken during a Maduro speech on National TV (Venezuela )



The Whatsapp text from Jorge Arreaza (Regime Member) reads: EFE. Colorado is in alert



The picture is the actual article mentioned in the conversation that reads: Colorado is in alert over threat of the pic.twitter.com/oHKpMYmYuT     (@eriksuarezn) August 7, 2024

Arreaza is Hugo Chavez's son-in-law, and a trusted Chavista confidante, having held positions such as foreign minister, minister of science and technology, and vice president. During Chavez's final illness at the hands of Castrocare, he served as the unofficial spokesman for the Chavez family.

He's almost certainly a fluent English speaker, having gotten his master's degree in European Policy Studies at Cambridge University, in the U.K.

He's also one of those guys who got himself sanctioned, during the Trump administration, cutting off his access to U.S. banking.

According to Wikimedia Commons:

The U.S. Department of State issued a statement describing Arreaza as being "at the forefront" of the Maduro administration attempts "to thwart the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people."[

Now we learn that he's sending whatsapp messages to Maduro himself with articles about Tren de Aragua's progress wreaking mayhem in the United States.

It's been reported that Maduro emptied his prisons, specifically Tocoron prison which is or has been controlled by Tren de Aragua gangs, to fire up the border surge against the U.S., telling released thugs to head north. Tocoron was recently taken over by the Venezuelan government, and many believe deals were cut, though the Venezuelan government denies it.

It's also known that the late Hugo Chavez himself took an intense interest in pushing illegal immigration to the border, once saying he'd be glad to camp out there to help the illegals in.

It's further known that Maduro's close ally, the odious Marxist dictator Daniel Ortega, has a complete border surge operation going on, flying illegal migrants in from as far away as India, collecting his fees, and sending them north, specifically to wreak havoc onto the U.S. as he said so himself.

According to CNN, Tren de Aragua is doing this in the states:

An alleged multistate human trafficking ring forcing immigrant women into prostitution. The mysterious killing of a former police officer in South Florida. Attacks against police officers in New York. The arrest of a drug dealer in Chicago. Local and federal officials say these apparently unrelated crimes have a common denominator: Tren de Aragua, a transnational criminal gang that originated in a Venezuela prison and has slowly made its way south and north in recent years. They say its now operating in the United States. The scale of its operations is unknown, but crimes attributed to alleged members of the gang have worried elected officials and some Republican members of Congress have asked the Biden administration to formally designate the vicious Tren de Aragua as a Transnational Criminal Organization. For several years, the criminal group has terrorized South American countries, including Venezuela, its country of origin, as well as Bolivia, Colombia, Chile and Peru. Retired general Oscar Naranjo, a former vice president of Colombia and chief of the Colombian National Police, told CNN Tren de Aragua is the most disruptive criminal organization operating nowadays in Latin America, a true challenge for the region.

Three days ago, the U.S. did designate it a transnational criminal organization. CNN noted in its report that it's been mentioned in connection with at least 70 crimes committed in U.S. charges, with many more merely suspected.

Now we learn that Maduro is abnormally interested in this, in news stories about its activities.

If Maduro has a hand in this game, he needs to answer for it. If the border surge is all about sending gangs into the U.S. and actually directing these dirtbags to murder our nationals, (as the brother at least of one member is accused of doing on a Georgia nursing student), and many other crimes, then we are looking at an act of war, that would actually justify a hoseout of that hellhole which is currently in an election fraud debacle. If the Harris-Biden team refuses to act on it, they're just letting it happen because they're happy it's happening. The rest of us should read this as a more serious invasion than anyone suspected.

Image: Twitter screen shot
Disney Plus will follow Netflixs lead by implementing a password-sharing crackdown in more regions starting in September. The company had already confirmed that it was working on this measure for the near future. Now, it seems that Disney will get serious about it. Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus subscriptions will also become more expensive this year.

While it was already known that implementing a password-sharing crackdown was in Disney Plus plans, there was still no clear timeline for it. The company began testing the measure in June only in some countries after the announcement in February. However, nothing was yet known about the plans for its worldwide rollout.

More regions to receive Disney Plus password-sharing crackdown in September

Today, Disney CEO Bob Iger spoke to investors during an earnings call. According to the executive, the company will begin implementing in earnest the paid password-sharing system starting in September. Iger did not offer further details on the matter, but his words already give an idea of the companys intentions. Disney Plus password-sharing crackdown is expected to roll out to more regions and users starting that month.

It is not yet known whether the company will implement the password-sharing crackdown globally in September, or if it will continue with a gradual rollout. Igers statement can be interpreted in a number of ways. Its also not known how much it will cost to add additional user profiles to your Disney Plus account. Netflix, one of the services direct rivals, charges a $7.99 fee for each additional user on your account.

Iger says hes not worried about a potential backlash from people. In fact, he claims that Disney has received no backlash at all to the [paid sharing] notifications that have gone out and to the work that weve already been doing. Q2 2024 was Disney Plus first profitable quarter, and the company is looking to maintain that path going forward.
Many eligible Google Pixel phones are starting to receive the last Android 14 stable update. The Android 15 beta schedule has been fulfilled as expected, so a stable rollout is expected in September. Although the Google Pixel 9 series will arrive this month (August), they are not expected to come with Android 15 out of the box. The Google Pixel Watch series recently received the August patch ahead of the Wear OS 5 rollout too.

The last Android 14 update is now reaching eligible Google Pixel devices

Regarding the Android 15 stable update, it is expected to arrive in the period corresponding to the next Quarterly Platform Release. Usually, new Pixel phones debut the latest Android version. However, in an unexpected turn, Google brought forward its Made by Google event to August. For reference, the company used to hold it in October.

Coming back to the new Pixels Android 14 update, it is expected to be the last one. Only a potential bug that severely affects a key feature would force a new update in the form of a hotfix. All Google Pixel devices from the Pixel 5a 5G onwards are eligible to receive the update. The OTA has the build name AP2A.240805.005 for most models, with slight variations on some.

Googles blog post says that the rollout is being done in phases. Therefore, not all devices will receive the OTA availability notification at the same time. It also has a lot to do with whether your phone is carrier-free or not. However, you can always manually check for the updates availability from System > Software updates > System update > Check for updates.

The OTA brings some optimizations and bug fixes

According to the changelog, the new firmware fixes a screen brightness flickering issue. It also includes improvements for display performance and stability. It also fixes a bug where some Pixel devices (mainly Pixel 6 series) would get bricked if you factory reset them after less than 15 minutes of applying an update. Lastly, the OTA fixes a bug related to user profile switching.
It appears that Google Wallet users in California will be able to save their local ID cards soon. This means they wont have to use the dedicated California app for that purpose.

Google Wallet users in California could save their digital ID cards

In the US, certain states have developed their own apps so that citizens can save a digital copy of their ID cards. California is one of them, and now it seems that its local DMV is starting to test support for ID cards in the Google Wallet app. Currently, California users must install the CA DMV Wallet app to carry a digital ID with them.

As reported by 9to5Google, once California ID card support is implemented in Google Wallet, users wont need to carry around the CA DMV Wallet app. However, they can keep both if they wish. The source claims that the process for adding an ID card will be fairly simple. Upon opening the Google Wallet app, users can tap the classic Add to Wallet button to get started. Then, they must tap on the ID Card option and follow the instructions to add their mDL (digital ID card).

A description on the Wallet app states that people can use their saved ID at select TSA terminals at SFO, SJC, LAX. However, the app also warns that the digital ID is not a full replacement for the physical document. Another description says that you should still carry your physical DL/ID with you. According to the source, Google Wallet support for California ID cards is in beta. Currently, only state DMV employees can use the feature.

Physical document scanning is still in development

This option is different than the previously leaked physical document scanning feature. This one will work for documents not natively supported by the Google Wallet app. Additionally, the digital cards will be generated from a photo of the physical document. The scanned documents will be available in an Everything Else tab within the Wallet app. It is not yet known when this feature will be available.
Were just days away from Googles official Made By Google hardware event where the company is set to show off the Pixel 9 Pro and the other Pixel 9 series phones, and a newly leaked ad is showcasing some of the phones AI-powered functions ahead of the event.

The Pixel 9 Pro has by all accounts, leaked in almost every conceivable way, but one way we havent really seen it pop up yet is in the form of Googles official promotional ads. You know the ones. The ads that showcase some of the new features. Google has put these out every year for the past few generations directly after the event where they were revealed to the public.

While the leaked ad hasnt been confirmed by Google, its pretty clear that this is one of the ads Google intends to toss out once the new lineup of phones has been announced. As with past years, Googles Pixel 9 series phones will be beefed up with plenty of AI-based features. Some of these will be found in the camera software. A big change this year though will be Googles integration of Gemini at the device level.

Pixel 9 Pro ad shows on-device Gemini in action

Over the years Google Assistant has become a pretty useful on-device tool for Pixel phone owners. Google is seemingly switching things up with the Pixel 9 series though by integrating Gemini. This particular detail isnt new information. However, this leaked ad (courtesy of @MysteryLupin) is perhaps the first time its been shown off. In the ad, you can see the person holding the Pixel 9 taking a photo of some ingredients in their fridge. Then ask Gemini what they can make with those ingredients.

Gemini then replies with a contextual result showing off a Lentil and Beet burger. It also follows up with a small description of what can be done to prep the ingredients for the dish.

The new Add Me feature lets you superimpose subjects over other images

Another neat new feature coming to the camera is the Add Me feature. This gets shown off in the ad as well. What it does is basically let you superimpose subjects over another image. The example used in the ad shows a picture being taken of two people first. Then a second image is taken of a completely different person while adding the other two from the first image into the second one. Based on how the feature looks in action, this could be super useful for shots where someone might have missed being in the photo.

This isnt the first time the Add Me feature has leaked. We exclusively reported on the feature back on July 26. However, this newly leaked ad gives a better look at how it actually works.
Its a sad day for Samsung Galaxy phone users. Weve been waiting for Samsung to unveil the beta for One UI 7, but the company has pushed the launch date back until sometime this month. Well, according to a new report, its worse than that. Samsung has delayed One UI 7 indefinitely.

Originally, the beta for Samsungs latest build of Android was supposed to have already been out. Weve been seeing a ton of leaks of what the interface could look like, so we were wondering if its in some sort of usable state. However, the first delay dashed that dream already. The company even said that this delay was because of One UI 6.1.1.

One UI 7 was delayed indefinitely

Whatever the reason, Samsung fans will not like this news. If everything went to plan, we would have expected to see the official One UI 7 release not too long after Google released Android 15 to the Pixel phones. But, the way its looking now, we shouldnt expect to see it anytime soon.

This news comes to us from two reliable sources on X.com. Ice Universe said that Samsung has no plans to launch [the beta] in the near future. Next, Chun Bhai mentioned that it Has been delayed indefinitely last week.

Right now, we dont know what the cause of this delay is, but its never a good thing when a company suspends something indefinitely. Theres no telling when people are going to get their hands on the beta let alone when the public is going to get the stable version.

According to the leaks and rumors, One UI 7 is going to be a massive overhaul of the UI. Weve seen images of the gallery app and camera app icons which contrast what we have now. Also, we got word that the company is also working on improving the animations across the interface. So, Samsung might be having trouble with getting this whole revamp done in time for the release. Hopefully, we get an ETA for this beta soon.
Reddit held its second earnings call of this year on Tuesday. The community-driven platform posted over 50% growth in both revenue and users year-on-year. Talking about the future of the platform, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman told investors that the brand plans to test AI-powered search result pages. In addition to the AI search results, Huffman has also hinted that Reddit could soon get paid subreddits.

Reddit will test AI-powered search result pages to summarize and recommend content

During the earnings call, Reddit CEO suggested that some significant changes could soon be coming to the platform. The first one is the AI-powered search features. The company will start testing AI-powered search results at some point later this year. The brand will utilize AI tools to summarize and recommend content. The CEO noted that it will help users dive deeper into content, apart from discovering new Reddit communities.

Huffman said that Reddit will be utilizing a combination of in-house and third-party AI technologies to power the AI-fuelled search result pages. Huffman believes that search could one day be a very important source of revenue for Reddit.

It is not the first time we have heard about AI developments at Reddit. Earlier in May, Reddit partnered with OpenAI to leverage the latters LLM models and create AI-powered features for Redditors or moderators. Now, the company seems to be going into full drive mode for AI-generated search results by kicking off the testing later this year.

Reddit CEO also hinted at paid subreddits as a mode of monetization

Reddit went public earlier this year in March. Ever since going public, the company has been looking for new sources of revenue. During the earnings call, Huffman hinted that the company might experiment with paid subreddits as it looks to monetize new features. As of now, there arent many details on how it will work. However, theres a possibility, this way, Reddit could also let Redditors make money off its platform.

It will be another non-advertising source of revenue for the brand. The company has already struck multi-million-dollar licensing deals with Google and OpenAI. Notably, the brand has already blocked search engines that arent paying to search its content.
T-Mobile has been in the news lately but for all the bad reasons. Last month, there were reports about some T-Mobile stores selling used phones as new. Also, several consumers of the telco filed lawsuits over price hikes on some plans in the same month. Most recently, a report suggested that the company was forcing customers to buy accessories. Now, a rep fired from T-Mobiles authorized retailer has reported some scammers-type activities.

A fired T-Mobile authorized retailer representative claims to have proof of scamming activities

A fired T-Mobile authorized retailer representative has posted about the possible scammers-type activities on Reddit. The user says the retailer fired him for having low sales numbers or performance. He claims that the members of his team who have better numbers were giant scammers. He claims encouragement from the management to cram user accounts with unauthorized sales to grow the numbers.

Notably, he claims that his T-Mobile dealer code was frequently used by his team members without his knowledge to scam customers. He could get accused of committing fraudulent activities for which he wasnt even responsible.

Furthermore, the fired retailer employee claims to have collected data on the fraudulent activities at the retail store. I have collected a LOT of evidence and documentation of this. I am considering taking the whistleblower route. Seems these scamming tactics go at least 2 levels above store manager. Is it worth it?, he mentioned in the Reddit post.

A lot of Reddit users who replied to the post advised the fired sales rep to do something about these scamming activities. One Reddit subscriber with the user name Gheatoy said, It is the essence of T-Mobile now. Theyre gonna come out and say oh noooo dont do that! You need to advocate for the customer! Then punish you when you dont outright commit fraud.

T-Mobiles authorized retailers have a history of fraudulent scamming activities

It is not the first time we have heard of shady activities happening at T-Mobiles authorized retailers. There were accusations against Arch Telecom earlier this year.

Arch Telecom representatives were accused of adding accessories to a customers account without their authorization. Arch Telecom released a statement recently and promised to get back to the ethical path.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 is Samsungs latest smartwatch and yet, it feels like an old friend that youve known for a decade. You probably know the one. Maybe you dont speak too often but every time you do its like no time has passed and the friendship is as strong as ever. Thats how the Galaxy Watch 7 feels. Samsung hasnt changed a whole lot with the watch in the last few generations. The design is the same, the user experience is mostly the same.

These factors might be a letdown for some. Personally, though, I feel like this is what makes the Galaxy Watch 7 one of the best smartwatch options available for the majority of users out there. Its a familiar staple that you know and love. No wild new design or UI elements. No wild new learning curve. Just a really good smartwatch with improvements in (mostly) all the right places.

Samsung has dialed into the smartwatch market and the Galaxy Watch 7 is proof that the company knows it has a good product on its hands. Not one that doesnt have any improvements to be made, mind you. Because theres always room for improvement. It is, however, a product that Samsung knows doesnt need to be changed too much. Merely fine-tuned. And slowly but surely, Samsung is fine-tuning the Galaxy Watch series and inching it ever closer to perfection. Will it ever reach perfection? Probably not, because nothing is ever perfect.

Still, after using this smartwatch for the past few weeks, its more clear now than ever that Samsung is still the king of the mountain in the Wear OS smartwatch space. From design to user experience, it sets the bar high for competitors. There are things I absolutely love about this watch and things I wish would have been a little different. That being said, the overall experience has been one that I appreciate on many levels. And it only solidifies my opinion that the Galaxy Watch 7 is the Wear OS smartwatch for everyone.

Lets take a closer look at the device in this review and see how it stacks up.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Review: Design and Bands

The design of the Galaxy Watch 7, while not new, is a solid design. Its the same sleek look that Samsung has been using for years and quite honestly, it doesnt need to be changed. The Galaxy Watch 7 looks good because the Galaxy Watch 6, Galaxy Watch 5, and Galaxy Watch 4 all looked good as well. And the design has essentially stayed the same throughout those models.

In short, the Galaxy Watch 7 design is great. This lack of change in design also means that there are no changes to the band connectors. Or more specifically, no change to the types of bands that can be used with the watch. You can still use all those old bands from one or two watch models back. Unlike the Galaxy Watch Ultra which uses a new connector system and locks those old bands out unless you find some adapters.

This is one of my favorite details of the watch because it means your watch bands get some more life. You can continue to use them until you tire of them or they start to break down. As for materials, the watch case itself is no longer made from Stainless Steel. Instead, Samsung used Armor Aluminum, however, it still looks and feels the same as past watches. It is still using a Sapphire Crystal glass display and thats a good thing. Because it means the display is better protected from dings and scratches and such.

With a clean left side and both buttons still on the right, using the watch should feel familiar when interacting with it. The top button can still be used for powering off the watch and activating things like Google Assistant. While the bottom button can still be used as a back button and to bring up Samsung Pay. Its still unfortunately not possible to change the default action of the bottom buttons double press. But you can change the quick tap function to show recent apps if you prefer that to having the button go back one screen.

The recent apps access is nice, but I found that I personally prefer going back one screen when pressing this button because thats what Im used to using. After trying the recent apps function for a few days, I reverted back to the default previous screen function. But if you multitask, give the recent apps function a shot.

One major design change is the new all-new sensor configuration. With the inclusion of the Optical BioActive Sensor and the Electrical BioActive Sensor, youll get more accurate readings for health, sports, sleep, and more. Durability-wise, the watch design doesnt look or feel more durable, but the durability hasnt declined either. It will still be able to take the occasional bump thanks to the MIL-STD-810H rating, and it comes with a 5ATM + IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

A world of band options at your fingertips

I already briefly touched on this but the band connection system hasnt changed. That leaves you with a world of options. You can find a band that fits your style whether its something new from Samsung this year or an old band from a previous model of the watch. This is huge for the longevity of the bands you may have accumulated because you wont have to get rid of them. You can keep using them with the Galaxy Watch 7.

If you do go with Samsungs new band options, there are a few new options that you can choose from. Theyre quite stylish and by the looks of it, fairly comfortable. Now Samsung only sent me the Sport Band so I have no clue what the Fabric Band or the Athleisure band are like. The Sport Band is pretty comfortable though, and that bodes well for the other two as they seem like theyd be more comfortable to wear for longer periods than silicone. The Fabric Band, in particular, should be great for wearing the watch to bed for sleep tracking purposes.

In terms of design, the new Sport Band is pretty stylish. The addition of the different colors of thread towards the connector point is a nice touch. I also feel like the ridged design of the band helps a little bit with airflow around the wrist so it doesnt end up feeling as sweaty after wearing the watch all day. So while you can use older bands if you have them, these new ones from Samsung are great and worth at least trying before opting to swap them out. You can also check out our guide for the Best Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Bands if youre looking for more options.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Review: Display

If you liked the display on the Galaxy Watch 6, then youre going to like the display on the Galaxy Watch 7. Why, you might ask? Because its the same display. Its the same size at 1.47 inches, and it uses Sapphire Crystal Glass for the layer that sits on top of the panel for protection. The display also has the same peak brightness as the Galaxy Watch 6 at 2,000 nits. So there are no changes to the display from last years model at all.

All of this is to say the display on the Galaxy Watch 7 is good. I wouldnt call it exceptional because, at the end of the day, its just a smartwatch display. It is however better than a lot of other smartwatch displays out there. So Samsung definitely has that going for it. Whats important is that the display gets more than bright enough to see in just about any condition. Its been pretty bright here in the Northwest these past few weeks and I never had any issues seeing the display while outside.

Even with the sun at its highest point, there was never an issue. The one thing that might impact this is if you turn off the auto display brightness. While Im not generally a fan of it in most cases, this does ensure two things  that the display is as bright as it needs to be to account for outside light sources that can cause glare, and you arent unnecessarily wasting battery life by having the display be brighter than it needs to be.

When it comes to the size I think the display size is perfectly fine for the Galaxy Watch 7. However, I am using the 44mm size option which comes with a larger display. Its also the same size as the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic 47mm which was fine for me as well. I certainly wouldnt mind if it was a little bit larger, but I never once wished that it was. I only bring this up because the display is going to be slightly smaller on the 40mm size option. While suitable, the smaller displays do make it a little tougher to see things, so in my opinion, the bigger the better.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Review: Performance

Ever since the Galaxy Watch 4 weve been promised that Wear OS was going to feel snappier and deliver better performance. Things have gotten marginally better each year but the Galaxy Watch 7 feels like the biggest performance upgrade in some time. This is mainly due to Samsungs use of the new 3nm Exynos W1000 chip inside. Its more powerful and more power efficient at the same time. Even if the power efficiency isnt enough to vastly boost the battery life (which well get into later), its still a bit better and any improvement is still an improvement.

Im also a firm believer that no improvement in this area is bad. Again, though, it can always be better. The chipset clocks in at 1.6GHz which is slightly higher than the 1.4GHz W930 that Samsung used in the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. But dont let this difference fool you. The performance boost isnt a huge chasm. Ive been using the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic for most of last year and most of this year. While I wasnt the one who did the review, it was sent to me after the review was done and it became my main smartwatch.

It was always decent for performance with just a small hiccup here and there. With the Galaxy Watch 7, things are a little different. I havent noticed any hiccups on the watch in terms of performance so far. Now Im only a few weeks in. So that could always change if I were using this watch several months from now. But I dont think it would. I think thats an important thing to remember. The performance is nice and smooth and I feel like its going to stay that way.

Of course, your experience may vary based on what apps youre using and how you use the watch. But like I said, so far, Ive had no problems with performance or things feeling sluggish. The Galaxy Watch and Wear OS are finally starting to feel like the powerful devices they should have been a few years ago. One thing that I do love is the haptics. Particularly with the touch bezel. I still prefer the rotating bezel on the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, and that will never change.

However, the haptics have a very satisfying feel to them as you run your finger around the touch bezel. The haptics have also been good at keeping me alert to incoming notifications. I can often miss them on my phone if I have it in my pocket while Im driving. And the Galaxy Watch 7 has made it easy to feel that a notification has come in. They dont feel that much different from the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic but they do feel better. Or perhaps stronger is a more accurate description. Launching apps also feels good and its equally good backing out of them. Workout tracking and sleep tracking have been working pretty well too. However, I think thats more due to the improved sensors. All-in-all, the performance is great and there are no complaints from me in this area, and I think most users will feel the same.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Review: Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is always one of the most important parts of a smartwatch. The longer-lasting it is, the less you have to charge it. Just like with smartphones. While Samsungs Galaxy smartwatches have never really been the longest-lasting of any smartwatch on the market, they are longer-lasting than just about every Wear OS smartwatch. Save for maybe the OnePlus Watch 2 which we found to have great battery life.

The 44mm Galaxy Watch 7 uses the same battery size as the 47mm Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, which is a 425mAh battery. With that being said, battery life hasnt really changed too much between these two models. In my experience with the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, it usually lasts me at least a full day with the always-on-display enabled, maybe two if Im not using the watch for sleep tracking and I turn the AOD off. The Galaxy Watch 7 has been about the same here if not maybe an extra hour or two.

Im not using the Galaxy Watch 7 much differently either. So Im chalking this up to the inclusion of Wear OS 5 and the new Exynoss W1000 chip. With that being said, the battery life still hasnt really improved. So youll get at most two days out of it. More realistically, youll be tossing it on the charger either every night or every morning. Depending on if you use it to track your sleep and how many other features or apps you use.

In terms of charging speed, its not going to take you quite an hour but it will be close. So if you wear the watch to bed, you might need to plan to get up at least an hour before you have to leave, so you can toss the watch on its charger. That way its ready to go as you walk out the door. For me, this generally isnt an issue since I work from home and I just charge the watch whenever it suits me. For anyone who doesnt work from home, just give yourself an hour to charge the watch and you should be good to go.

I do wish the charging speeds were a bit quicker but alas, it wasnt in the cards this year. Maybe with the Galaxy Watch 8 series, well finally get the faster charging speeds we want and deserve. Overall though, battery life and charging speeds arent terrible. Theyre not great, but theyre not terrible. Id say theyre passable. Youll get a full day out of them, and as long as you arent just leaping out of bed moments before you leave, you will have enough time to charge the watch up.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Review: Software, Fitness, and Health Tracking

Since Samsungs design and hardware components havent changed a ton from the previous model, the software is going to be a big part of what makes the Galaxy Watch 7 a worthy device if youre thinking about buying one. The good news is that there are more than a few new software features in this watch. Much of the software remains unchanged from the Galaxy Watch 6 series but, there is still plenty to differentiate Samsungs latest from last years models.

Particularly the Galaxy AI features like the all-new Energy Score. The way this is intended to work is by giving you an Energy Score that looks at everything you did the day before. It then calculates out a score to tell you how ready you are to take on the day. The goal here is to try and improve your Energy Score a little bit each day until it gets to a point that youre happy with. Or, ideally, until you reach a score of 100 if youre a perfectionist.

That being said, anything thats listed as an excellent score is nothing to scoff at. So far my highest score was 84 which is listed as good. It also tells me that my sleep time average and my sleep time consistency need improvement. I found this to be useful as its helping me narrow down what about my sleep I need to improve so I end up more well-rested on future days. You can also see snippets of this information on the watch itself. However, you get a more detailed visualization of the data in the Samsung Health app on your phone.

The downside here is that you need a Galaxy phone for this feature to work. Luckily I had the Galaxy Z Flip 6 for review to test this feature on the watch. The Galaxy Watch 7 is also one of the first smartwatches with Wear OS 5 alongside the Galaxy Watch Ultra. Wear OS 5 doesnt have a whole lot of different features than Wear OS 4 at the moment, but it does have the new Watch Face Format, and Wear OS 5 does seem to help things run smoother.

Outside of Wear OS 5, some of the software features Ive found myself using more and more are the double pinch and knock knock features. Now double pinch is technically not new, at least not entirely. It was available on the Galaxy Watch 6 in the form of Universal Gestures. However, its changed a little as its no longer part of the accessibility menu. It also works quite a bit better now in my opinion. Especially since its preconfigured and is now a simple on/off toggle if you want to enable or disable it.

With double pinch, its been really easy to just dismiss notifications coming in. Ive also used a few times to dismiss incoming calls. You can also use it to launch apps but I never used it for this purpose. When it comes to knock knock, this isnt new either and has been around since the Galaxy Watch 4. This is my first time using it though, and its a game changer. I have it set up to launch Google Wallet and have used this for the past several days at store checkouts. I definitely recommend enabling it if you havent tried it before.

Another new feature of this watch is the Sleep Apnea detection. Youll need to be connected to a Galaxy phone for this as well. The way it works is that it checks for signs of sleep apnea while you sleep over a period of two nights. So just like with the Sleep Score and Sleep Animal features, youll need to wear it for a set amount of time before receiving any useful information. Now I dont have sleep apnea so I knew the detection would tell me as much. That being said, if you have trouble sleeping, this is something youre going to want to turn on and record so you can figure out if you should talk to your doctor or not.

Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7?

Samsungs Galaxy Watch 7 is a great smartwatch with some useful new features and a tried and true design. So the question is, should you buy it? As always this comes down to what youre looking for. Not to mention whether or not you already have the Galaxy Watch 6. I think this will be more of a hard sell for some if youve got last years watch. However, I also personally think that the upgrades are worth the money. You could always keep the old watch as a backup or trade it in for the discount on the new watch.

But having things like double pinch fleshed out, along with the Energy Score and Sleep Apnea features, not to mention Wear OS 5, are worthy improvements that warrant the purchase. That being said, you dont need the Galaxy Watch 7 if you have the Galaxy Watch 6 or Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. Yes, the improvements are nice, but theres not enough there where upgrading is a necessity.

You should buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 if:

Youre using a Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 or older

You want the new Galaxy AI features

Youre someone who likes having the latest and greatest

You shouldnt buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 if:
Eccentric billionaire Elon Musks X (formerly Twitter) is in hot water in the EU. Irelands Data Protection Commission (DPC) is taking the social networking giant to court for using Europeans data to train AI models. The latest matter relates to Xs alleged misuse of EU user data to train its Grok AI chatbot. According to RTE, Irelands DPC has launched legal proceedings against Twitter International Unlimited Company regarding the matter.

The Irish watchdog is worried that X is using user data without permission to train AI tools like Grok

According to RTE, the Irish watchdog is concerned over Xs use of EU user data without consent to train AI tools like Grok. The regulator is worried about how the personal data of millions of European users is being processed.

Furthermore, the DPC is concerned about Xs intention to launch the next version of Grok sometime in August. The DPC claims that X has been training the next-gen Grok model using the personal data of EU/EEA users.

Twitter International, Xs Irish division, reportedly hasnt stopped processing users data. Also, the social networking giant isnt delaying the launch of the next version of Grok as the commission had requested. Thats why the DPS has decided to take Twitter International to the high court. The DPC is seeking to suspend or completely prohibit the company from training any AI tools using the data of X users.

What does the law require?

The European Unions General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has a certain set of rules for companies like X when it comes to using user data. Tech brands like X are allowed to process user data only if theres a valid legal basis for it. Thus, X is required to obtain permissions from the users before processing their data to train AI models like Grok.

What did X do?

However, X didnt notify any of its users in the EU before using their posts to train AI tools. The matter came to light only when a select group of X users noticed a change in the settings. The company quietly started helping itself to users posts to train its AI models last month. Although theres an option for users to opt out of it, the option to turn it off is buried in the web settings.
A 15-year-old boy has been remanded over charges of rioting in Belfast.

The charges relate to rioting in the Broadway area of the city on July 16 and in the Sandy Row area on August 5.

The teenager has been charged with two counts of rioting, on July 16 and on August 5 and one count of possession of a weapon with intent on July 16.

He appeared before Belfast Magistrates Court via videolink on Wednesday morning and indicated he understood the charges.

Police opposed an application for bail on the basis of a high risk of re-offending, risk to public safety and risk of damage to property.

The court heard that on July 15-16, the Broadway area saw sustained and violent disorder from a small group of males and police were targeted with petrol bombs, fireworks and masonry. The defendant was described as being identified in the area on July 16 from police drone footage being within the group of main protagonists and during a critical time being part of a group throwing masonry.

A police officer said during interview, the defendant admitted it was him in the footage and that he threw masonry, because everyone else was doing it.

Meanwhile, they said on Saturday August 3, Belfast experienced widespread violent disorder not seen in years in the city, which led to racially aggravated crime with businesses and hospitality premises being the target of criminal damage and arson.

On Monday August 5, they said the defendant was identified on CCTV with a group of males pushing towards the entrance to a hostel and police officers pushed the group back, however, the group with the defendant re-emerged and officers retreated to their vehicles while coming under fire with missiles and bottles.

They said during interview, the defendant admitted his presence and that he was with his friends. Asked why he was there, the defendant stated he was with his friends.

The defendant was shown footage of further disorder throughout the night where the same group are targeting police, blocking roads and burning bins, setting fireworks off into the supermarket which was badly damaged on August 3, they said.

The defendant can be seen speaking with these offenders as this is ongoing. He has the opportunity to stand elsewhere but he stands with them. In interview, he stated he was just watching what was happening.

They said police contend the defendant placed himself with a group of friends who have been the most active violent offenders in the area of Broadway and Sandy Row on July 15-16 and August 3 and 5, linked to four days of the most serious violence Belfast has seen in years.

They added: The United Kingdom is currently seeing a huge spike in public disorder with racial undertones. This has seen police attacked and businesses belonging to ethnic backgrounds being attacked and burned. Over the last few days, Belfast bore the brunt and experienced mass civil unrest. Businesses in the Sandy Row area were burnt out and investigations are ongoing into that.

A defence lawyer said the applicant for bail is a 15-year-old child and described him as vulnerable.

He seems to have been drawn to these incidents of disorder like a moth to the light, he said.

Although in relation to the first incident, he has accepted throwing a piece of what police describe as masonry, but what I understand is closer to a stone. One stone in the first incident. In relation to the second and third incidents, the case really against him is based on his presence in the area which he has frankly and honestly accepted. He is not observed throwing anything or damaging any property. He is simply there, along with depressingly, a lot of other very young persons.

Bail was refused on the basis of a suitable bail address not being supplied and risk to the public.

The judge said at this point in time, there is no approved address offered by the defence, therefore the test is met that it is necessary to protect the public because of the ongoing disturbances to remand him in custody.

He added: If an alternative address is made available, because he is a child, the court will look very sympathetically upon that.
Aberdeen City Council did not act unlawfully in its proposals to turn a park into an Energy Transition Zone (ETZ), Scotlands highest court has ruled.

Publishing his ruling from the Court of Session in Edinburgh, Lord Douglas Fairley refused the petition from Friends of St Fitticks Park which argued the local authority failed its legal duty to perform equality impact assessments.

The park, in Torry, is the site of a proposed ETZ, an industrial hub tailored to support the transition to green energy.

Campaigners argued the council did not discharge its responsibilities as a listed authority under the Equalities Act, with lawyers acting on behalf of campaigners stating that a full council meeting on September 11 2023, where the proposals were discussed, triggered this clause.

In response, the council said it did no more than give express authority for officers to investigate what developments of St Fitticks Park may involve.

In his ruling published on Wednesday, Lord Fairley accepted the response from lawyers acting on behalf of Aberdeen City Council, who argued the petitioners remarks were premature as the steps taken by officials did not yet necessitate an equality impact assessment.

He said: If the petitioners argument about that issue was correct (whether they had a duty to carry out equality impact assessment) it would necessarily imply that the respondent was under a duty to carry out an assessment of impact without knowing what proposals it was assessing.

The clear purpose of the resolution of September 11 2023 was to facilitate the collection of relevant information about what development of the park by ETZ  might entail.

Logically, the ingathering of such information needed to take place before any impact assessment could be carried out.

I therefore agree with the respondents submission that in passing resolution 9.6 of 11 September 2023, it did not breach any of the duties incumbent upon it under section 149 of the Equality Act 2010 or regulation 5 of the 2012 regulations.

Lord Fairley therefore refused the petition.

A spokesperson for ETZ Ltd, the private sector-led and not-for-profit company spearheading the transition, said: We welcome todays Court of Session judgment.

Through our Community & Coast programme, ETZ Ltd are firmly committed to enhancing wider greenspaces in proximity of the Energy Transition Zone in co-design and collaboration with the local community.

This will include significant improvements to St Fitticks Park, Tullos woods and the coastal path corridor as part of the projects wider regeneration ambitions.

It is important to highlight that we have proposed utilising, subject to planning, a significantly reduced area of development to St Fitticks Park with just over half of the Aberdeen City Council proposed sites being developed equating to less than a third of the park overall. 

Richard Caie, from Friends of St Fitticks Park, said the group was dismayed but not discouraged by the ruling, and that it would continue to oppose the development.

Friends of St Fitticks Park are disappointed that the Supreme Court did not find in our favour. We are dismayed but not discouraged. We will continue to oppose the industrialisation of the communitys beloved park by all legal means, he said.

As a small group of volunteers we are proud of our efforts so far and, unlike ETZ Ltd, we do not have tens of millions of pounds of taxpayers money to promote a big PR campaign.

Our thanks go to the Environmental Rights Centre for Scotland, Friends of the Earth Scotland, Mike Dailly and the Govan Law Centre and many, many more who recognise the grave injustice being perpetrated on our community and who have helped us along the way.

An Aberdeen City Council spokesperson said: Aberdeen City Council notes todays decision by the Court of Session.
Seabird experts have expressed concern over a slow start to the seabird breeding season and a drop in nesting activity.

Ecologists working for the National Trust for Scotland raised concern after analysing data gathered by the conservation charitys annual monitoring surveys.

James Crymble, who worked as a seabird researcher on islands around the world before joining the trust, said the disappointing results could be partly due to recent outbreaks of avian flu.

He said: Preliminary results are in from our rangers recent monitoring surveys and, though numbers do seem to be down for many species, it is not all doom and gloom.

Kittiwakes, which had undergone dramatic population declines in Scotland over the last 30 years, appear to be bucking the trend this year with numbers increasing at most of our locations.

It is a mixed picture for other species at our sites, with no fulmars breeding on Canna this year.

However, their numbers are looking better on Fair Isle, making it larger now than St Kilda, which has traditionally been the largest fulmar colony in the UK.

We are working to determine the root cause. We suspect for some species that part of the reason for the poor breeding season may be a knock-on effect from the avian flu that has been having a devastating impact on Scotlands seabird populations in recent years.

Elizabeth Morgan, a seabird scientist and qualified bird ringer, said poor weather conditions and a lack of food could also be factors in the results.

She said: Some of these declines in seabird numbers, such as great skua, can be put down to the impact of avian flu over the last couple of years, but other things will also have impacted population numbers and nesting activity this year, too.

We suspect that the drop in numbers may be due to poor conditions experienced by birds over winter, such as stormy weather, which makes it hard for them to feed, and a lack of food more generally.

Seabirds will sometimes take a sabbatical, taking a year off from having chicks, especially if they are not feeling at their best, which may be the case for some birds this year. So, there is hope things will improve next year.

Both ecologists will be working with senior seabird officer Ellie Owen alongside a team of rangers to complete twelve new initiatives designed to boost Scotlands seabird species.

NTS figures showed that on Staffa, shags have experienced a massive decline from 52 nests last year to just 14 nests this year.

At St Abbs, shags also declined dramatically from 126 nests last year to 37 nests this year, though the gannet population saw an increase of 24% this year and kittiwake numbers are up by 9%.

Ms Morgan said: In response to avian flu, we are increasing our monitoring effort for affected species and looking at ways to support their recovery.

The main project involves collecting samples from birds and fitting them with coloured rings as part of a wider Ecoflu study led by Edinburgh University.

The study aims to look at the levels of immunity in populations of great skuas and puffins throughout Scotland, that will allow us to understand if birds have immunity, how they were infected, and potentially how to prevent another outbreak.

Fitting the seabirds with coloured rings gives them an individual identity, so they can be tracked throughout their lifetime.

It will help us to better monitor the survival of the skua population on St Kilda as they recover from avian flu.

In the last few days avian flu has again been detected in Scottish seabirds. This underlines how important our work is to monitor avian flu and support our seabirds while they endure this additional pressure.
George Mills admitted he was probably not allowed to repeat what he said to Frances Hugo Hay after he was involved in a four-man fall in his 5000 metres heat.

After the men had crossed the finish line, Mills and Hay were seen arguing and making physical contact, Mills pointing furiously at the Frenchman.

Mills claimed Hay was responsible for the incident and officials agreed the Briton had been disadvantaged, advancing him to Saturdays final following a review by the video referee.

Great Britains George Mills reacts to his mens 1500 metres repechage round tumble (Martin Rickett/PA).

Mills, the son of former Leeds and England full-back Danny told the BBC: I think its pretty clear. I got stepped out on as I was about to kick in the home straight and boom, the French lad took me down.

Asked what he said when he confronted Hay: Im probably not allowed to say.

From my perspective that was the perfect qualifier for me, going through first 2k in six minutes. I was like, Nobody in this field can run away from me at this pace, so I was just sitting, waiting, biding my time, gonna kick off the home straight then bang, hit the deck. What can you do?

Later, Mills added: It looks like my path was maybe stopped. Mo Ahmed went down with 800m to go and I just about managed to hurdle him, so I thought Id got away with one there.

Great Britains George Mills (third from left) during the mens 1500 metres heat at the Stade de France (Martin Rickett/PA).

But then going into the home straight on the last lap, I was tucked in on the inside, where I wanted to be, because I knew some sort of gap would open up. It did and I was ready to put my foot down and all of a sudden, boom, I hit the deck.

I was ready to go. If we look at the top pace of the race, it was playing into a 1500 metre guys hands, so that was my plan. Get around the whole race, sit in and dont waste any energy, get into the last 100m, doesnt matter if you are 10th or 12th, you will be able to come past.

We executed that to the point, and I was ready to execute that last little bit, but that got taken out of my control unfortunately.

Danny Mills (centre) was known as a no-nonsense defender in his time at Leeds, Hull (in action above), Manchester City and Middlesbrough.

Hay told Discovery+: There was a big collision. Its not me. Somebody pushed me.

Something happened, I turned around and everyone was on the floor so I hope its not me. I feel really good.

Mills had been running alongside the Frenchman in a crowd just before the tumble, their arms appearing to at some point connect, causing Mills to slightly lose his balance.

He recovered, but moments later was tipped to his side, taking Spains Thierry Ndikumwenayo and Refugee Olympic Team athlete Dominic Lobalu out with him.

The Netherlands Mike Foppen attempted to swerve but he too toppled and joined the pile of fallen bodies.

Ndikumwenayo, Lobalu and Foppen were also awarded places in the final following the review by the video referee, who qualified them due to the level they were disadvantaged.

Former Olympic silver medallist Steve Cram, commentating on the race for the BBC, said: George was in a bad position from a long way out, he should have checked out much earlier.

Theres lots of experienced men in there and yes, everyone thinks they can kick, but when you get to that situation [very slow pace] the chances of people going down are increased incredibly.

Patrick Dever and Sam Atkin, the other GB athletes in 5000m contention, did not make it through after finishing 13th and 18th respectively.

It had been a difficult Olympic build-up for Atkin over the last five weeks. The Grimsby athlete shared that he sat a fortnight out with extreme food poisoning I could hardly walk up the stairs, then contracted Covid-19 for the first time three weeks ago.

Great Britains Ben Pattison (third from left) during the mens 800 metres heats (Martin Rickett/PA).

Ben Pattison, Max Burgin and Elliot Giles all advanced from their 800 metres heats to Fridays semi-finals.

Giles was called in as a late replacement for 2022 world 1500 metres champion Jake Wightman, who was last week forced to withdraw from the Olympics with a hamstring injury.

Earlier, three-time Olympian Cindy Sember qualified for Fridays womens 100 metres hurdles semi-final after finishing second from her heat in 12.42 seconds.

Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, the Puerto Rican Tokyo 2020 champion, was quickest of both Sembers heat and the overall 39-woman field.

Revee Walcott-Nolan secured her spot in the womens 1500 metres semi-final from the repechage round.
Hilary Benn has condemned racist violence in Belfast in recent days and stressed that it does not represent Northern Ireland.

The Northern Ireland Secretary said he was deeply shocked and angered after hearing from business owners who had been targeted by rampaging disorder following anti-immigration protests.

Civic leaders, churches, trade unions and businesses have called for an end to the rioting in Belfast after three nights of disorder.

Northern Irelands commissioner designate for victims of crime Geraldine Hanna said the recent violence had been fuelled by prejudice and misinformation.

Mr Benn said he had spoken to First Minister Michelle ONeill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, Justice Minister Naomi Long and Chief Constable Jon Boutcher.

He also spoke to representatives of the Islamic centre, as well as police officers and firefighters that had responded to the disorder in recent days.

Mr Boutcher said on Wednesday night that police officers will be standing in harms way to ensure that the Muslim community in Northern Ireland are safe.

He said he had held a meeting in Belfast on Tuesday night with all the leaders of mosques across Northern Ireland.

Its clear to me you are living in fear and I want to assure you: we will deal with it, he said.

Speaking at a community centre in Belfast on Wednesday, Mr Benn said there was a responsibility on all elected representatives to call out this racist violence for what it is.

Secretary of State @hilarybennmp's full statement following the continued disorder in Belfast.https://t.co/6ubn97bmc5  Northern Ireland Office (@NIOgov) August 6, 2024

What we have been witnessing is completely unacceptable. This does not represent Northern Ireland. It doesnt represent the great city of Belfast. This is not what Northern Ireland wants to be known for.

He said: People are entitled to protest and people are entitled to their political views, but there is no justification whatsoever for engaging in this kind of violence that is targeting particular communities.

Members of these communities, some of whom Ive met today, are frightened. They are afraid. People are afraid to go out of their own houses.

He said this included health workers who are unsure they wanted to stay in the region after the disorder.

Mr Benn called on people to imagine if it was their family business or home and people tried to kick in the door, as had happened on Tuesday night in Belfast.

He said: What is that about? These are people living in our community. They are part of our community, and you know where we should feel safest? Its at home.

When people are at home and they dont feel safe, that, I think, reflects very badly on all of us. It should be a cause of shame that this is taking place and my message is: stop.

Ms Little-Pengelly said issues such as access to public services are wholly separate from the violence fuelled by racism.

She said: We acknowledge that there are concerns, I have no doubt that many of those concerns are very genuinely held, and that is about access to our public services, access to affordable housing in particular.

But those are issues that we need to address through government, through democratic means. Nothing is achieved (through) violence, particularly that racist targeting towards those people who have set up businesses here in Northern Ireland, causing that fear for those people who are working hard to provide those really essential public services for all of us.

She was speaking at the Causeway Hospital in Coleraine with MP Gregory Campbell, who said that if people who had come to work in the regions hospitals were to leave, the healthcare service would collapse.

Mr Campbell said they will be pressing the UK government to act on the boats coming in and people coming in illegally, but that this was separate to people being attacked who are in Northern Ireland legally and pay their taxes.

He added: Let us ensure that we dont intertwine these two issues to the extent that concern about an open door immigration policy becomes described as racist and results in attacks on people that weve seen in the past few days.

Six people, ranging in age from 14 to 41, have been charged following a number of race-related hate crimes and disorder across Belfast.

Three men, aged 26, 28 and 41 years, have been charged with offences including criminal damage, riotous behaviour, incitement to hatred and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

They are due to appear at Belfast Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Three teenage boys, arrested on Tuesday in the Shankill area of Belfast, have also been charged.

Two boys aged 16 and one boy aged 14 have been charged with riotous behaviour and are due to appear at Belfast Youth Court on September 2.

All charges are reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

PSNI officers man road blocks in Belfast following an anti-immigration protest outside Belfast City Hall on Saturday (Peter Morrison/PA)

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones described a third night of officers dealing with incidents such as assaults, criminal damage and arson in a challenging environment.

The unrest started in Belfast on Saturday following an anti-immigration protest, and continued on Monday evening in the south of the city.

It comes amid scenes of disorder in parts of England in recent days.

Four men linked to disorder on Saturday appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday.

A 15-year-old boy appeared before the same court on Wednesday charged with rioting. All four were remanded.

Ms Jones said on Tuesday that officers received a report at around 6.10pm that a shop on the Falls Road had eggs thrown at it and that staff inside were being racially abused by a group of young people.

A 15-year-old boy was assaulted, and while he received minor facial injuries, I have no doubt this was a terrifying incident for the young victim, she said.

When police attended, a large group from the local community were outside to defuse the situation. A 14-year-old boy was cautioned for offences such as common assault, disorderly behaviour and criminal damage. We will review the evidence gathered and follow this up in the coming days.

Six people arrested as we dealt with a number of race-related hate crimes, hate incidents and disorder across Belfast last night, Tuesday 6th August. Read more: https://t.co/qDUIn1biaR pic.twitter.com/i9dhvGpsdw  Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) August 7, 2024

Meanwhile there was a report of a group of young people wearing masks in the Shankill area.

Ms Jones said officers attended and arrested three boys, two aged 16 and one aged 14, on suspicion of riotous behaviour. They remained in police custody on Wednesday morning.

We also dealt with a report of a hijacking in the Fingal Street area of west Belfast at around 8.45pm, followed by a report that a car was deliberately driven at a business in the Woodvale Road area, causing damage to the shutters. The suspects made off from the scene, she said.

Officers dealt with a number of reports of criminal damage to homes and cars in the Enfield Street, Woodvale Road and Rathlin Street. Three men, aged 26, 28 and 41 years, were arrested in connection to the Rathlin Street report on suspicion of offences including criminal damage and they remain in custody at this time.

There were also reports of bins set on fire in the Newtownards Road area of east Belfast, which caused some traffic disruption for a period of time as the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service dealt with the fire.

Abdelkader Mohamad Al Alloush, owner of the Sham Supermarket on Donegall Road in Belfast, which was burned during disorder in the area following an anti-immigration protest on Saturday (Rebecca Black/PA)

Ms Jones described the scenes in recent days across Belfast as a disgrace which have no place in Northern Ireland.

We continue to engage with the groups affected by this criminality and hope these arrests show the community that we are taking action, she said.

Our Public Order Enquiry Team will continue to review footage to attempt to identify those involved, as well as those organising and orchestrating this disorder. As with any investigative process, the Police Service will follow the evidence and present it to the Public Prosecution Service.

I am appealing to the public directly: do not let these criminals hide in your community. Anyone with any information which can help identify any of these individuals should contact police.

We have set up a Major Incident Public Portal for people to submit information, images and footage.

Photos and footage, including CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage, can be shared with police through the Major Incident Public Portal at Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).
Josh Kerr has already set his sights on upgrading his Olympic medal again at Los Angeles in four years time after settling for silver in the mens 1500m in Paris.

The Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist was pipped at the post following a late surge by Americas Cole Hocker, who gatecrashed the Kerr v Jakob Ingebrigtsen narrative to snatch a shock gold from under their noses.

Rather than be down in the dumps, Kerr takes pride in setting a new personal best in the event and will use what happened at the Stade de France as fuel to go for gold at the next Olympics in LA in 2028.

Great Britains Josh Kerr (left) congratulate mens 1500 metres winner Cole Hocker (USA) at Stade de France (Martin Rickett/PA).

It was a little bit bitter sweet for me, Kerr told the PA news agency. Theres a lot of big positives to take away from my performance.

Big execution on a big stage for me, best 1500 performance Ive ever put on in my life and just a little bit short of my biggest goal.

Im ready for that next step, take it and start another four-year cycle is going to be an exciting one. Its massively motivating for me. Im looking forward to analysing and getting back to the drawing board.

The Edinburgh runner was just 0.14 seconds adrift of Hocker on Tuesday evening and only one hundredth of a second ahead of bronze medallist Yared Nuguse in a photo finish.

Josh Kerr has won silver and bronze medals at an Olympics (Martin Rickett/PA)

Tokyo 2020 champion Ingebrigtsen surprisingly finished outside the medal positions in fourth as he floundered in a thrilling denouement, having set the pace for much of an absorbing race.

To have three or four guys still battling with 100 metres to go is mind-blowing but it wasnt something where I was like oh my goodness, I cant believe this is happening, Kerr added.

I was able to stay composed in that moment and not fall apart. I held on as much as I could and got beaten by the better man and thats going to motivate me in that next cycle.
A logistics company has been fined 1 million after an employee fell 36ft (11m) at a container terminal and suffered severe life-changing injuries.

Christopher Hooper suffered fractures to his skull, back, pelvis, arm, wrist and ankle in the fall at DP World Southamptons terminal on September 20 2022.

Now Southampton Container Terminals Limited, trading as DP World Southampton, has been prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The firm, based in Palace Street, Westminster, central London, pleaded guilty at Southampton Magistrates Court on August 2 to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and was fined 1 million and ordered to pay 11,664.59 in costs.

An HSE spokesman said: The 31-year-old, from Winchester, had fallen through an open hole in the drivers cab of a straddle carrier, landing on the concrete floor below.

The hole had been created by contractors that were replacing a glass floor, exposing Mr Hooper and other workers to the risk of falling from height.

Mr Hooper, who had worked for Southampton Container Terminals Limited since he was 17, had been undertaking routine maintenance work and was unaware of the open hole before falling on to the floor.

The HSE investigation found Southampton Container Terminals Limited had failed to ensure there was a system of work that ensured the replacement of the glass floor and routine maintenance work could be carried out safely at the same time.

The company also failed to ensure there was a risk assessment in place and failed to implement its own policy for the use of permits to work whilst working at height.

HSE inspector Francesca Arnold said: This incident has resulted in severe life-changing injuries for Mr Hooper, who is lucky to be alive.

His life has completely changed because of Southampton Container Terminals Limiteds failure to produce a suitable risk assessment and implement straightforward control measures.

The hazards of working at height are well known and documented, and this prosecution should now remind employers that a failure to manage and implement effective measures can have serious consequences and they will be held accountable for this failure.

Mr Hooper said in his victim personal statement: I feel like a puppet in my life who is being moved from therapy to therapy with no control over where I am going.

It feels like my life is in a waiting room, early out of hospital I had closer milestones that felt achievable whereas now no-one can tell me what I can do next and that is really impacting my day-to-day life as I dont know what the rest of my life will look like.

A DP World Southampton spokesman said: Keeping people safe is the absolute priority for everyone at DP World Southampton and we fully understand the impact that this incident has had on the worker affected and shall continue to do everything we can to support him.

Our commitment to safety is evidenced by our track record and in particular the consistent enhancement in our Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) over the last 15 years, the result of a substantial investment in safety training, awareness, and infrastructure.

Although it was formally acknowledged in this case that our efforts to make people safer were a mitigating factor, regrettably we fell short of meeting our high safety standards this time.

We would like to make it clear that we have reviewed our operational systems and procedures and updated them as necessary to avoid any future incidents of a similar nature.

We are confident that our dedicated team at DP World Southampton will continue to make progress in setting and maintaining the highest standards of safety in the industry.
The first series of Love is Blind UK has arrived on Netflix. (Netflix)

The first series of Love is Blind UK has landed on Netflix, bringing plenty of the drama viewers of the original US-based series know and love.

The highly anticipated British version of the reality dating series is hosted by Matt and Emma Willis, and will see a group of single men and women dating one another and falling in love without ever seeing each other in person.

Love is Blind brings the drama from the get-go. From red flags to scandals, the series reveals some jaw-dropping revelations about participants as they navigate their new relationships and decide whether they will say I do at the altar.

The first four episodes of Love is Blind UK arrived on Netflix on Wednesday 7 August, with the next batch to be released on 14 August and the final batch on 21 August.

**Warning: This article contains spoilers for the first series of Love is Blind.**

We spoke to Dr Lalitaa Suglani, an eharmony relationship expert and award-winning psychologist, to talk us through the first four episodes of Love is Blind UK.

Love is Blind UK: Episode 1

Participants in Love is Blind date one another without ever seeing each other, before deciding if they want to marry. (Netflix)

In the first episode, viewers are introduced to the shows concept and several cast members. We see them going on first dates with multiple people through "pods", asking questions about one another to get a sense of whether the person on the other side of the wall might be a potential partner.

On first dates such as these, Dr Suglani says that it is "important to strike a balance between engaging conversation and respecting each others boundaries".

She tells Yahoo UK: "Interestingly, research from eharmony suggests that males are generally more inclined to avoid small talk on first dates, with 22% preferring to delve into deeper topics compared to 16% of females.

"While in some cases, skipping the small talk can lead to a deeper connection, its important to ensure the conversation remains comfortable or respectful for both daters."

The topic of sex often comes up between the participants in the pods. This is a key area when it comes to dating, says Dr Suglani, but bringing it up too early can be off-putting, especially for women.

The men and women are kept apart in Love is Blind UK, and cannot see one another unless they decide to get engaged. (Netflix)

"Almost two in five females (39%) wish their dates would not discuss or ask about sex on the first date compared to only 14% of males, according to eharmony research. This shows how crucial sensitivity and awareness can be when it comes to conversational boundaries.

"Another topic to avoid on a first date is discussing ex-partners... Talking about exes can bring up negative emotions and shift the focus away from getting to know each other. Its more productive to focus on the present and future, exploring each others personalities and values to identify if that person is right for you."

One of the cast members who will stand out to viewers is Sam, who talks openly about feeling insecure about the way he looks. When he meets Jasmine in the pods, his insecurities colour his interactions with her.

Jasmine explains that she feels he is telling her what she wants to hear to try and make a connection, rather than what he actually feels and wants. Even without seeing Sam, insecurities can still be noticeable, says Dr Suglani.

Love is Blind UK cast member Sam is one of the first participants that viewers are introduced to. (Netflix)

"Insecurity can be off-putting for a few reasons. Firstly, it can show a lack of confidence, which can be considered an attractive quality. Confidence suggests that a person is comfortable with themselves and their place in the world, which can be reassuring and appealing to others.

"Additionally, insecurity can impact the flow of conversation. If one person is constantly doubting themselves or seeking validation, it can make interactions feel less genuine and more strained.

"Jasmine might sense Sams insecurity through his tone of voice, the hesitancy in his responses, or his tendency to downplay his achievements. These behaviours can make it harder to form a connection and maintain an engaging conversation."

Love is Blind UK: Episode 2

In the second episode of Love is Blind UK, the participants get even deeper in conversation with one another. They talk about their pasts, futures, the potential for children, and - of course - sex.

Catherine has formed a connection with two people, Freddie and Ollie. While she really likes Freddie, she and Ollie have a very sexually charged energy on their dates. Another participant, Tom, is in a similar situation, feeling more of a sexual connection with Maria than Natasha.

Catherine is falling for Freddie and Ollie, but initially thinks she is more sexually attracted to Ollie. (Netflix) (Courtesy of Netflix)

Sexual attraction is a powerful thing, even when you cant see the other person. It has the power to greatly influence emotions and decisions, Dr Suglani says.

"Its often misunderstood that sexual attraction is down to someones looks, but the sexual chemistry we feel for someone is often based on a mix of looks, personality and the way we portray ourselves in conversation being some of the most important," she explains.

"Sexual attraction based on looks alone can create such a strong, gut-level response that can overshadow more rational thoughts. These intense feelings make it hard to separate physical desire from deeper emotional connections. For Catherine, the strong chemistry she experiences with Ollie through his personality and conversation alone challenges her feelings for Freddie, showing just how powerful and sometimes disruptive sexual attraction can be  even when you cant see them."

Viewers return to Sam, who becomes frustrated with Jasmine when she tells him she doesnt think he is giving her genuine answers. While he wants to continue dating her, she breaks things off to focus on her connection with Bobby.

It might not be so easy for others to determine if someone is telling the truth or not - as we see with Nicole, who is also interested in Sam. She leans away from her earlier connection with Benaiah, who is worried for her because he believes Sam is not being entirely truthful about his reasons for being on the show.

Nicole leans towards her connection with Sam, despite having feelings for Benaiah. (Netflix)

Dr Suglani advises singletons to pay attention to inconsistencies in the other persons story. "If their stories frequently change or their opinions seem to quickly shift without reason, they might not be entirely truthful. Consistency is often a sign of honesty, while frequent changes can indicate that someone is making things up as they go along just to impress you."

Another red flag to look out for is if someone is overly agreeable or telling you exactly what you want to hear. This could mean they are more focused on pleasing you than being honest, she says, adding: "Many genuine relationships involve some level of disagreement and differing opinions."

Love is Blind UK: Episode 3

After Benaiah tells Nicole his concerns about Sam not being on the show for love, she has a serious decision to make. However, viewers see her ultimately falling in love with Sam after he reassures her he is genuine, and she tells him that she loves him.

However, after proposing to Nicole and hearing her say yes, Sam only then tells her: "I think I love you." Viewers will no doubt see this as a huge red flag, and so does Nicole, as she appears suddenly unsure about her decision.

"Sam saying he thinks he loves Nicole may be a big red flag for viewers because it indicates uncertainty and a lack of confidence in his feelings. This uncertainty can lead to future doubts and issues in the relationship. A clear, mutual understanding of love is essential for a lasting and fulfilling marriage," Dr Suglani says.

Couples can only see one another in person if they decide they want to get married. (Netflix)

Meanwhile, Benaiah is left having to deal with Nicoles rejection of him - particularly as he knows she has chosen Sam instead. Dr Suglani explains that this type of rejection can be painful for various reasons.

"In particular, the personal investment you may have put into developing the connection can make this rejection hard. When you really like someone, its likely that youve invested a lot of emotional energy, time and hope into the relationship, she says.

"Jealousy can also play a role. It isnt just about wanting what someone else has; its about feeling threatened by the idea that someone else is more desirable or valuable than you are. Nicole choosing Sam could certainly impact Benaiahs self-esteem, increasing the emotional pain."

Love is Blind UK: Episode 4

Viewers have now watched six couples get engaged in the pods, and now they are out in the real world and on their honeymoon. They will use this period to see if their physical connection is as strong as their emotional connection, and will also meet the other cast members of the opposite sex.

However, although six couples got engaged, only five went on honeymoon. Viewers learn that Nicole and Sam broke off their engagement shortly after exiting the pods and did not go on the honeymoon.

The men in Love is Blind UK decide whether love really is blind. (Netflix)

Nicole reveals that she accidentally put her ring from Sam on the wrong hand, which she took as a sign that things were not quite right between them. For people who believe in signs from the universe, paying attention to them can provide comfort and a sense of guidance, helping individuals in making decisions about their own relationships, Dr Suglani explains.

"However, we often tend to see signs when we are looking for answers to any doubts or questions we have. In this case, Nicole had personal doubt around her decision after Sams reaction to the proposal.

"This sign was what she took as a personal confirmation that she wasnt making the right decision for herself. Using this form of validation for our personal doubts is fine, as long as its done with rational thinking. While these signs can be meaningful, not all signs should be taken at face value. By maintaining a balance, individuals can integrate their beliefs into their relationship making informed and thoughtful choices."

In a preview of the next batch of episodes, viewers see Nicole admitting she has made a huge mistake and wants to fix things with Benaiah. But is it possible after her rejection of him?

Can Nicole and Benaiah repair their relationship in the next few episodes of Love is Blind UK? (Netflix) (Courtesy of Netflix)

Not only is it possible for them to repair their relationship, but it may even bring them closer, says Dr Suglani.

"A relationship can certainly be repaired when one partner chooses another person and then decides to come back, provided that their emotional connection is genuine and strong.

"The process of repairing such a relationship requires effort, understanding, and a willingness to address the issues that led to the initial decision to leave. Most importantly, the couple have to choose to move forward together and not linger over the past.

"Feelings of betrayal and hurt may linger, and Benaiah may have doubts about Nicoles commitment and loyalty. It is crucial for her to demonstrate that she is committed to rebuilding the relationship and is genuinely sorry for any hurt caused.

"This being said, however, if Nicole and Benaiah are able to rebuild their relationship, this could actually bring them closer. This is because it might encourage them to talk more openly and work through issues, which can strengthen their bond and deepen their connection."

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It was the day that England held its breath. Across the country, and over the Irish sea in Belfast, police feared and were braced for the most widespread night of violence in more than a decade.

Shops were boarded up, theatre performances cancelled and hotels and immigration advice centres closed over fears they were in the crosshairs of the far-right disorder that has laid siege to dozens of towns and cities over the past week.

Related: Anti-racism protesters gather across England - in pictures

But it was anti-racism demonstrators who thronged the streets of England from Newcastle down to London and across to Bristol. Counter-protesters arrived first and their numbers just grew and grew, from dozens to hundreds and then thousands.

By mid-evening they were mostly counter-protesters with nothing to counter. There was sometimes an almost carnival-like atmosphere  singing, dancing and in one case a samba band  with little sign of the far right.

The scale of the anti-racism protests was surely sending a message: an effort to change the narrative after a week dominated by rampant far-right, anti-immigrant violence.

In Birminghams jewellery quarter, outside a migrant centre, they chanted fascist scum out of Brum.

In Liverpool they held banners such as Nans Against Nazis, Immigrants welcome. Racists not and When the poor blame the poor only the rich win. An elderly man with a portable speaker resting on his walking frame played John Lennons Give Peace a Chance on repeat.

In Brighton the anti-racism demonstrators so outnumbered the far right that the police surrounded the far right for their own protection. By 9pm a hardcore of three rightwing activists remained, so sound systems were set up. It became a party. This could on for hours, said one observer.

Father Peter Morgan, the priest of St Marys church in Liverpool, which hosts an immigration centre that featured on a far-right hitlist which circulated this week, said asylum seekers had been terrified, absolutely terrified.

His church had to be boarded up. Police on horseback roamed the nearby streets. Morgan described as nonsense calls for the country to defend its Christian values.

Its actually crazy what theyre saying and here we are having to defend our Christian church. It just doesnt make sense. All were doing is actually helping to feed the hungry, he said.

The huge anti-racism, pro-immigration gatherings were repeated everywhere. Nearly 1,000 people gathered in the west end of Newcastle.

By 9pm, as darkness fell, speeches had finished and many anti-racism protesters decided to drift home.

After what appeared to be a standoff, police moved into the crowd in Brighton to allow the glum-faced anti-immigration people to leave. It took 30 minutes and there were a good number of insults and jeers hurled in the process.

In Northampton police took to social media to politely ask anti-racist protesters to go home for the night. The Northants force said: One hour since planned protest was due to start and there has been no disorder tonight.

Some people expressed mock annoyance. We made a sign for nothing! said a Sheffield protester, Claire, holding a pink glittery placard emblazoned with the words Hate never wins. Her friend added: They didnt bother coming. Very disappointing.

There were some skirmishes but they were few and far between. In Aldershot, Hampshire, tempers flared and police intervened to stop one group who were chanting refugees are welcome here from getting too close to a group shouting stop the boats.

The atmosphere in places like Preston and Blackpool was said to be tense.

Nine days on from the murder of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport, Merseyside, police chiefs were preparing for what they thought could be more than 100 extreme rightwing demonstrations across England.

Every force in the country was on high alert by midday, with police intelligence suggesting that the north-west and north-east of England would see the worst of the trouble.

Riot squads of more than 4,000 officers fanned out around the country, shielding a hitlist of 39 locations  including immigration law firms and asylum-seeker accommodation  that had been circulating on far-right Telegram channels and beyond for days.

The message, believed to have originated in Liverpool, told followers: THEY WONT STOP COMING UNTIL YOU TELL THEM  NO MORE IMMIGRATION. MASK UP. SPREAD THIS AS FAR AND WIDE AS YOU CAN, along with a dozen fire emojis.

While specialist investigators sought to trace the provenance of the post, the threat was taken very seriously. Keir Starmer called two emergency Cobra meetings in 48 hours and mobilised the biggest deployment of riot officers across mainland Britain since the 2011 riots.

It had been nine days since the murders of six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar at a summer holiday club, which left eight other young girls and two adults with serious knife wounds, and Britain had been allowed no time to process its grief before it was convulsed by a week of widespread rioting.

The violent unrest began in Southport, barely 36 hours after the fatal knife attack, when rioters attacked a mosque and set a police van on fire after the suspect was mistakenly identified online as a Muslim man of Arabic heritage. The posts were viewed tens of millions of times and amplified by popular rightwing figures like Andrew Tate and Tommy Robinson.

Other towns and cities followed: Hartlepool, Aldershot, London, Sunderland, Hull, Manchester, Leeds, Bolton, Liverpool, Middlesbrough, Darlington. It seemed to go on and on.

Attempts by the police and judiciary to quell the unrest failed and rioters were emboldened. The seemingly random roll call of violence left the whole of Britain on edge.

In Rotherham and Tamworth, groups set fire to two hotels housing asylum seekers, while a community library was set ablaze in Walton, Liverpool. Shops have been looted, homes and cars attacked, and journalists targeted.

In Merseyside, the centre of some of the most serious disorder, the chief constable, Serena Kennedy, told a court on Wednesday that more than 90 of her officers had been injured in the unprecedented riots. Some were having sleepless nights and panic attacks.

By Wednesday afternoon, there were signs of communities preparing for the worst. GPs and nurseries were closing their doors by lunchtime. A hospital in central London told staff they could go home early. Businesses near the site of the planned disorder boarded up their windows.

Newcastle Theatre Royal cancelled Wednesdays performance of the musical Come From Away while the Sunderland Empire did the same for The Wizard of Oz.

Carpenters and builders helped barricade an asylum advice centre in Liverpool that had appeared on the target list. Pubs nearby had boarded up their windows and Merseysides distinctive yellow police vans were dotted discreetly on sidestreets up to a mile away.

Ewan Roberts, the manager of the Asylum Link centre that was targeted, said he was shocked and dismayed by the violent threats towards our staff, volunteers and service users and the potential damage to our neighbourhood.

He added: The response from the community has been overwhelming. We have had hundreds of offers of help and so many positive messages of support, its been really moving. We know this hatred is the minority and that most people in Liverpool are welcoming and kind.

In Sheffield, parts of the city turned into a ghost town hours before a rumoured demonstration outside an immigration advice centre.

The owners of the Dog and Partridge pub showed their frustration on Facebook, telling punters: We hate having to do this but well be closed again tomorrow, folks. Were not the only ones either. Office staff have been told to work from home too. These fucking terrorists are ruining everyones lives. It feels never-ending at the minute. Please stay safe.

 Reporting team: Mark Brown; Josh Halliday; Jessica Murray; Ben Quinn; Robyn Vinter; Bibi van der Zee; Tom Wall
Historic Sherborne Abbey was run by Benedictine monks from 998, until Church of England took control during the Reformation - Christopher Jones

Burglars broke into a 1,300-year-old church and stole 90,000 worth of religious items.

Thieves stole silver treasures including a processional cross, two verges and a bishops crook during a night-time raid on Sherborne Abbey in Dorset on Tuesday.

They also caused considerable damage to the wooden Saxon door to gain entry and cut a wire to a light.

There were no witnesses or CCTV footage, with police launching an investigation into the raid.

The Rev Martin Lee condemned the burglars, telling The Telegraph: The abbey is part of our history and our heritage. A lot of people are very angry and upset about this. It is a desecration of the abbey as well as the wider community.

The rector added that the criminals must have broken into the abbey between 9pm and 1am.

This is an extremely sad day for the abbey and indeed for our community, Rev Lee continued.

A cross stolen by thieves from Sherborne Abbey

We are deeply shocked by this crime and now must work hard to deal with the consequences and support all those in our community who are affected by this act of desecration to our beautiful abbey.

A spokesman for the diocese said: We are deeply saddened to hear of the theft at Sherborne Abbey and the damage that has been incurred on one of the most significant and beautiful churches in the diocese and wider Church of England.

Such actions are deeply upsetting for the community, who have lost items of value to both the town and the abbey.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the community at this distressing time.

PCSO Mark Jones, of Dorset Police in Sherborne, said high value items of silver were stolen.

He said: Sherborne Abbey is a historic landmark of significant cultural value to not just the town but the whole county and we are carrying out enquiries into this burglary to identify those responsible.

We are keen to trace the movement of the offenders in the areas of Hospital Lane, Abbey Road, Church Lane and Half Moon Street so I would ask local residents to please check their home CCTV and doorbell cameras to see if they have captured anything of relevance.

I would also urge any motorists driving in the area at the time of the offence to please review their dashcams to see if they have captured any footage which may aid our investigation.
Carles Puigdemont has said he will attend the Catalan parliament on Thursday for the investiture of the regions new leader. Photograph: Idriss Bigou-Gilles/AFP/Getty Images

The fugitive Catalan separatist leader Carles Puigdemont has said he will return to Spain on Thursday, risking likely arrest in a move that could destabilise the countrys ruling coalition.

Puigdemont, who has been living in self-imposed exile in Belgium for seven years after organising an illegal independence referendum in Catalonia, has said that he will be at the Catalan parliament in Barcelona on Thursday as it swears in the regions new leader.

In a video message published Wednesday, he said that in normal democratic conditions, for an MP like me to announce his intention to attend that session would be unnecessary, it would be irrelevant. But ours are not normal democratic conditions.

Related: Carles Puigdemont: from self-exile to unlikely kingmaker of Spanish politics

There are two members, former regional minister Lluis Puig and myself, who cannot attend freely. This challenge must be answered and confronted.

In May, Spains parliament approved a divisive amnesty law that the countrys socialist prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, offered Catalan separatists in return for helping him back to power. The law applies to about 400 people involved in a symbolic independence referendum in November 2014 and the illegal unilateral poll that followed three years later.

But in July, Spains supreme court upheld arrest warrants for Puigdemont and others who are charged with misuse of public funds, ruling that the amnesty law did not apply to them.

That I can attend the [Catalan] parliament should be normal, Puigdemont said in his video message. That to do so risks an arrest that would be arbitrary and illegal is evidence of the democratic anomaly that we have the duty to denounce and fight, not because we are pro-independence, but because we are democrats.

Police have reportedly been tasked with ensuring Puigdemont does not enter the Catalan parliament, limiting access to the area, carrying out room-by-room inspections and even searching the sewers.

These are standard security procedures that are carried out before any investiture ceremony, a spokesperson for the Catalan force, the Mossos dEsquadra, told Politico.

In the recent Catalan regional elections, the socialists won the most seats but failed to attain an overall majority.

The moderate pro-independence Catalan Republican Left party (ERC), the longstanding rival to Puigdemonts Junts per Catalunya, reached an agreement for the socialist former health minister Salvador Illa to be sworn in as the regional president. He will lead the first non-nationalist Catalan government in more than 20 years in a sign of the weakening of the independence movement since its heyday in 2017.

Puigdemont says it is his duty as former president in exile to attend the investiture and claimed in an open letter that if he is arrested ERC must take some of the blame. ERC has retorted that it is the judicial system, not them, that will be responsible for his arrest.

His allies have argued that the trip to Spain is a necessity.

Puigdemont comes back to Catalonia after seven years in exile. And does so for the same reason that he left: to prove that Spains rule of law has failed when it comes to the pro-independence movement and Catalonia, said Aleix Sarri, Junts secretary for international affairs and a former adviser to Puigdemont.

Jailing him despite the amnesty law would mean that the Catalan pro-independence movement is just treated by the Spanish judiciary as an internal enemy to be repressed. If not even a pact for an amnesty law can be complied with, nothing will, and his detention and jailing would make the case for independence more obvious than ever.

But many see Puigdemonts move as a last throw of the dice for the separatist leader, who so far has shown little appetite for martyrdom, as most of the independence movement has concluded that his policy of el choque de trenes or train crash confrontation with the Spanish government is at a dead end.

The acting Catalan president, Pere Aragones, has said that even if the investiture is delayed, it will still go ahead.

Puigdemonts arrival and likely arrest could create a headache for the Sanchez government. The conservative Peoples party (PP) came first in last years snap general election but failed to win sufficient support to form a new government.

That allowed Sanchezs socialist party to try to bring together votes, which could only do by giving the amnesty as a concession to Catalan political parties. But the move has been highly controversial, sparking demonstrations across the country.

Lola Garcia, the deputy editor of the Catalan daily La Vanguardia  a paper that is historically close to Puigdemonts party  has noted that his arrival could have broader implications for Spains politics.

The possibility of Puigdemont being jailed might complicate things for the Spanish government, although a change of government wouldnt be in his interest at this juncture, she said. But it wont resuscitate the unity of the independence movement nor the independence process.

Despite a formal separation of powers, the Spanish judiciary is viewed  not only by Catalan separatists  as highly politicised and an unreformed relic of the Franco dictatorship.
Helicopters, Osprey tiltrotors and jets are seen on the deck of a US Navy big-deck amphibious assault ship. China is building a bigger version, with a catapult to launch jets - MCSN Craig Z Rodarte/US Navy/AFP

Innovations which totally change the nature of maritime warfare dont happen every day. Iron hulls, steam driven propellers, aircraft carriers, guided missiles, nuclear propulsion (with its main impact being in submarines)  all these are obvious examples but the rate at which such things appear has slowed. Sea drones are not a fundamental change, as I explained in these pages the other day  theres little practical difference between a robotic explosives-laden speedboat and one driven by an aspiring shahid martyr. But occasionally something pops up that is both a first and a surprise.

This time around it is the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) who have come up with something new. Early satellite photos of the Type 076 Yulan-class landing helicopter assault (LHA) amphibious ship show that it is even bigger than a US Navy America-class LHA: 50,000 tons to 45,000. This is the biggest amphibious assault ship in the world  bigger than some ships which are regarded as full-blown aircraft carriers. For example Frances sole carrier, the Charles De Gaulle, displaces 42,000 tons.

Modern Chinese warships tend to look a lot like American ones, and in some respects the Type 076 does resemble a US Navy America- or Wasp-class big-deck amphib. Theres a big flat-top flight deck, a control island to one side, lifts to bring aircraft up from the hangar deck and take them down again. Theres also accommodation into which probably 2,000 or so Peoples Liberation Army Navy Marines can be crammed. Underneath all that theres a well deck so that various kinds of landing craft or swimming armour can be driven in and out of the ship at the waterline. China is big on swimming armoured vehicles: the PLAN Marines ZTD-05 packs a 105mm gun, heavy metal for something that has to float.

Another word for amphibious assault is, of course, invasion  a word often found in the same sentence as Taiwan these days. The fact that China is building the biggest invasion ship in the world is definitely of interest.

But theres something else special about the Type 076. The photos appear to show that it will have an aircraft launching catapult fitted, probably an electromagnetic one similar to those in the PLANs new aircraft carrier Fujian or Americas latest carrier Gerald R Ford. This is an interesting development and creates a blurring of the previously well understood lines between generally smaller carrier-type ships focused on amphibious operations and larger, exquisite (and more expensive) aircraft carriers focused on air dominance and strike.

So far, only full-blown carriers have had catapults, and not even all of those. Britains carriers dont have cats, and the sole Russian carrier Kuznetsov and the two early Chinese ships built to the same design  Liaoning and Shandong  dont either. This means that jets taking off from the Russian and Chinese ships are severely limited as to the amount of fuel and weapons they can carry. It means that Britains Queen Elizabeth-class carriers are compelled to use the jump jet vertical-thrust B version of the F-35 stealth fighter, which is likewise limited as to load compared to the tailhook and runway versions. Just to rub salt into the Royal Navys wounds, its considerably more expensive than them too. The US Marines, flying from similarly catapult-less American LHAs, likewise use the F-35B.

At this stage, its not totally clear what the PLAN wants to fly from the Type 076. As an amphib the air group will be bound to focus mainly on helicopter lift, but the presence of the catapult means there will be jets of some kind too: and theyll be able to get airborne fully loaded for bear. The length of the catapult trench and the position of the aircraft lifts suggest that it will be able to launch both crewed and uncrewed systems. Electromagnetic cats are known to be more flexible than old-school steam cats, too  they can deliver various different levels of impulse to launch light or heavy aircraft as desired, and they arent as hard on airframes.

Chinas Hongdu GJ-11 stealth combat drone jet is a likely candidate for Type 076 air groups  mock-ups of this have already been seen in the dockyard. The PLAN has an advanced drone programme, and potentially many of its aircraft could go to sea aboard the new mega-amphibs. Crewed aircraft such as the J-15 carrier jet are also an obvious possibility.

The single cat, however, means that a Type 076 wont be able to put a large number of jets into the air quickly. The Charles de Gaulle may be smaller, but she has two cats and as such is better able to launch a strike operation. True aircraft carriers have mostly jets and just a few helicopters: LHAs have mostly helicopters and just a few jets, and it would seem that this will also be the case with the Type 076. In other words, think of it as an amphib with enhanced air options rather than an aircraft carrier lite.

Perhaps even more remarkable than the ambitious scale and capability of this ship is the speed with which it is being built. The dock in which the new vessel sits was only completed in September last year. Satellite photos suggest that the rate of build is the same as for the Fujian, in which case the first Type 076 will be in the water and conducting trials early next year. It will have gone from concept to sea trials in less than two years  faster than Britain can refit an existing frigate at the moment.

China's first fully capable aircraft carrier, the Fujian. The ship is equipped with three catapults and can mount operations involving many jets - Pu Haiyang/Xinhua via AP

Oh yes, and there are three frigates also under construction in the same dock. Its worth mentioning that the building yard, CSSC Hudong Zhonghua, is better known for building commercial container ships and LNG carriers, some of which have had reliability issues. So there is hope that the Type 076 might be a bit rubbish, but hope is not a strategy.

In some ways one could see this new mega-amphib as a fantasy fleet ship where everything gets added partly for operational reasons but partly because you can. If you are working to a budget, as everyone other than China is, you wouldnt crossover capabilities like this. Youd keep your huge and expensive carrier force separate from your rough and ready, cheaper amphib force.

The other side of the argument is to suspect that the Chinese, having mastered electromagnetic catapult technology, have looked at the expensive, partly crippled jump jets of the West and the likewise partly crippled J-15s that they operate from the Liaoning and the Shandong. Theyve decided they want something like an America-class LHA but they dont want to mess around with jump jets or ski-jump ramps  they want their relatively small, LHA-style jet group to be fully capable and not unduly expensive. And so theyve decided that a single cat makes sense.

We should bear in mind that when the America class was designed, electric cats didnt exist. Modern gas turbine powered warships, having no steam available, cant use steam cats so the US didnt even consider catapults for the America class. But American designers might well have done if theyd had the option. An America class with a single cat and a small group of F-35C tailhook jets might well cost less overall than the actual ships equipped as they are with F-35Bs, and it would definitely be more capable.

In the end, we can say for sure that the PLAN is currently rewriting the rules on how long it takes to build big, complex warships. This is in turn set to rewrite the forecast on how soon the PLAN may match the US Navy on tonnage and firepower, rather than just hull numbers. And we can also say that the sight of the biggest invasion ship in the world taking shape in a Chinese yard will be making the Taiwanese military very thoughtful.

At this stage its not clear if the PLAN has just rewritten the rule book on amphibious operations as well (a development which Nato navies would struggle to match) or alternatively created an expensive white elephant that wont work very well  time will tell. Not very much time, though.

Tom Sharpe is a former Royal Navy officer
Some Telegraph readers have raised concerns over the use of the term 'terrorism' to describe the riots - Finnbarr Webster/Getty Images Europe

Protests have erupted across Britain after the killing of three young girls in Southport. On Wednesday, police sources confirmed more than 100 far-Right demonstrations and 30 counter-protests are planned for this evening.

Following the protests, Britains top prosecutor has warned rioters face being charged with terror offences. However, earlier in the week, Jonathan Hall KC, the Governments independent reviewer of terror legislation, said politicians must not rush to class the riots as terrorism.

In an exclusive Telegraph poll of more than 40,000 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.

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Reader Cliff Buck also raised concerns over the term terrorism: The surest way to foster real terrorism is to label people with legitimate grievances as terrorists.

Have no lessons been learned from where this has happened in the past? Mr Buck asked.

Terrorist charges are a very powerful tool and shouldnt be devalued so stupidly, began an anonymous Telegraph reader, who added: Classing crimes as terrorism allows extended holding without trial and tougher sentencing.

A.C.H. Melchett stated that terrorism requires a political aim, and they did not believe the majority of the rioters were that bright or sufficiently informed to have a political aim. They were just the bottom of the barrel out for a punch up.

There is no justification for the mindless riots

Some readers suggested if the rioters actions met the threshold of terrorism, then they should be treated as such.

Thomas Shepherd gave the example: If you throw a brick at the police because you want limited and controlled immigration, you run the risk of prosecution under terrorism laws.

He added: Just because you have sympathies with these people does not change this simple fact.

Another reader shared a similar sentiment: No laws need to be changed to categorise this as terrorism. If the violence meets the threshold, then the police should prosecute accordingly.

This obviously would apply to those that attacked the mosque and the hotel.

M. Whitehouse argued: Whatever the rights and wrongs of immigration, there is no justification for the mindless riots and misrule we have seen in these last few days.

Meanwhile, some argued the riots were not acts of terrorism, but thuggery, or in reader Sarah Vaughans words: Civil unrest is not terrorism!

Julie Blackburn said: This is not terrorismm, its just disgusting, hateful violence for the sake of it and I honestly cant see what use any of these people are to humanity.

Another reader, Ian Errington, agreed that they are not terrorists. They are thugs, pure and simple. Lots of people need to go to prison very quickly.

Finally, Steve Hughes argued that the people on both sides involved in these riots are thugs, and said he feared this will escalate to full-out racial conflicts in some cities.

He continued: This could result in sectarian no-go areas and be catastrophic for our country. The failures of both parties to manage immigration over decades has caused this situation.

Policing needs to be even-handed

Some Telegraph readers discussed what they saw as two-tier policing in response to the riots.

John Bates said he believed there is definitely a two-tier response going on. When other minorities have caused civil disorder in the past, the Left has excused their behaviour as due to being marginalised and having a genuine grievance.

These protests  even if there are elements bent on causing trouble who need to be stopped  are simply dismissed as the far-Right with no attempt to refute or address their complaints.

There is an underlying cause even if it is just plain ignorance but Cooper and Starmer wont address it because it doesnt fit their narrative.

Reader Michael Morley also argued policing needs to be even-handed, and not soft on one group, but hard on others. You should condemn all violent protest  not kneel to some.

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Philip Hood argued that although there may or may not be two-tier policing on this occasion, many believe that immigrants get treated more favourably by the authorities because those authorities are much keener to parade their virtues than do their job.

In turn, this can lead to hostility from the indigenous people, who feel they are not being represented fairly.

A Cobra meeting is not the answer

Meanwhile, reader Geoffrey Dobson makes the point that despite the apparent evidence, even if Keir Starmer doesnt consider two-tier policing exists, he should be alert to the fact that there is a growing perception that it is happening  and needs to respond appropriately.

An anonymous reader echoed this sentiment: The Prime Minister needs to get out more  out of Westminster, out of London, out of areas where there is enough money to ring-fence yourself and your family securely away from the problem.

He needs to walk among the troubled areas and ask himself why they are as they are. A Cobra meeting is not the answer. Talking to real people in the most troubled areas is.

The Prime Minhister called emergency meeting of Cobra on Monday to discuss the recent violent disorders - WPA Pool/Getty Images Europe

In a letter, Ian Duckworth wrote: The Prime Minister has sent the right message to the rioting thugs.

However, he asked, Will Sir Keir Starmers actions live up to his rhetoric? His promise of a tough response will have been welcomed by many citizens, so it is crucial that he fulfils it.

In the longer term, peoples genuine and valid concerns regarding immigration must also be addressed.

The riots are not the cause, they are a symptom

Many readers saw the riots as a symptom of the perceived wider issues of mass immigration in Britain.

Mr Morley wrote: All mainstream parties have failed to represent the wishes of the majority to limit immigration. They have failed to report accurately the crimes committed by immigrants posing as asylum seekers, just as the police failed victims of the rape gangs that operated with impunity for many years.

I am no fan of these riots, but they are not a cause of anything, they are a symptom. Politicians, along with the political justice system, are the cause.

Echoing this view, reader Carter Billington labelled the riots as a cry for help. He explained: Perhaps, the people of Britain want the Government to change the immigration laws, maybe the people have had enough? Why are the politicians not addressing these issues within the community? Its very sad to see this turmoil.

Reader Mark Stanley also weighed in: Its funny how Sir Keir Starmer says rioters do not represent Britain. Thats true, smashing things up is never the answer. However, Mr Starmer needs to realise that a vast proportion of Britain is not happy with the levels of immigration, the erosion of our values and the levels of crime.
For far too long, Coast Guard survivors have felt unheard and unseen, says a new report released by a US Senate subcommittee. Photograph: Eva Marie Uzcategui/AFP/Getty Images

More than 80 whistleblowers have testified that leaders at the Coast Guard Academy ignored decades of systemic sexual assault and harassment, in a new report released by a powerful government committee Wednesday.

The US Senates homeland security and government affairs subcommittee on investigations said sexual assault and harassment have been fleet-wide problems for the federal agency, impacting enlisted members and officers just as pervasively as cadets.

The report said: For far too long, Coast Guard survivors have felt unheard and unseen. They have been brushed aside and silenced.

Across its 48 pages, the report details how the academy fostered a culture that was highly skeptical of incidents being reported, silenced victims and enabled abuse.

A whistleblower who had been with the Coast Guard for more than 25 years told the subcommittee that she experienced multiple incidents of sexual harassment and assault at the academy in the 1990s but did not report the abuse because I would not be taken seriously.

I saw how women who did come forward were treated. They would be blamed for causing their assault, punished for consuming alcohol or other infractions that paled in comparison to the crimes committed against them, or victims wouldnt be believed that they were assaulted in the first place, she said.

One whistleblower said, upon sharing with fellow cadets her sexual assault, friends and mentors didnt believe her and spread rumors it was false. She was then harassed on a daily basis.

Another former cadet said that she was groped on campus in front of 20 witnesses. She struggled against her assailant in front of other cadets who started laughing and egging him on. She was socially ostracized when she reported the incident to the academy.

I knew then that my career in the US Coast Guard was over before it even began, the former cadet told the subcommittee.

When telling a counselor about a sexual assault, another cadet recalls the counselor warning her: I will probably ruin his career. I will be subject to a psych exam and will probably be forced out.

According to the subcommittees report, the Coast Guard conducted an investigation into many of these allegations over a period of six years, but ultimately kept its findings secret.

The investigation, dubbed Operation Fouled Anchor, was initiated in 2014 after a Coast Guard officer told her supervisor that she was raped by an upperclassman in 1997 while at the academy. The investigation looked at cases that occurred between 1990 and 2006.

The academy ultimately found 63 potential victims and 43 alleged perpetrators. The academy was aware of the allegations against 30 of the 43 alleged perpetrators, but only five of those were reported to the Coast Guard investigations unit or to local law enforcement, according to the subcommittees report.

Although the Coast Guard wrapped up its final investigation in 2020, it was hidden from the public until summer 2023, when CNN reported on its existence. Upon its release to the public, Coast Guard leaders apologized to the agencys workforce and assault survivors. In 2023, the agency conducted a 90-day accountability and transparency review in response to the investigations existence being made public.

The report urges the Coast Guard to properly hold accountable both individual perpetrators and the leadership that covered up their wrongdoing.

The culture will not change until the Coast Guard makes clear that sexual assault and harassment will not be tolerated.

In June, Linda Fagan, the Coast Guard admiral who assumed office in 2022, testified in front of the subcommittee before the reports release, saying that the agency is taking action, the work is not done  we have not waited.

I want to stop creating victims, but for the victims that we do have in the organization, I am 100% committed to fully supporting them and their needs, Fagan told the Senate subcommittee.
Cori Bush at a primary election watch party in St Louis, Missouri, on 6 August. Photograph: Michael B Thomas/Getty Images

Representative Cori Bush has warned the pro-Israel lobby to be afraid after it poured millions of dollars into defeating the prominent member of the Squad of progressive Democrats in Tuesdays primary election in St Louis.

Bush said her loss to St Louis county prosecutor Wesley Bell after the hardline American Israel Public Affairs Committee (Aipac) targeted her for opposition to Israels attack on Gaza had freed her to openly challenge the powerful pressure group, which has vowed to spend $100m to influence US elections this year in favour of Israel.

Theyre about to see this other Cori, this other side, she told supporters. Aipac, Im coming to tear your kingdom down.

Bush, who will continue to serve in Congress until January, added: All they did was radicalise me, so now they need to be afraid.

Bush did not say how she now intends to take on Aipac but critics of the lobby group, which has previously boasted of its ability to round up congressional support, have said that it should be obliged to register as an agent of a foreign government because it pushes Israels interests over those of the US.

Aipac spent $8.5m to defeat Bush, mostly on negative advertising through its campaign financing arm, the United Democracy Project (UDP), in the second most expensive primary race in the US this year.

Aipac celebrated Bells win, a second major victory after the UDP played a leading role in unseating New York representative Jamaal Bowman, another member of the Squad critical of Israel, with a tweet proclaiming: Being pro-Israel is good policy and good politics.

But groups supporting Bush noted that, as in other congressional races targeted by pro-Israel groups, almost none of the campaign advertising by the UDP addressed the Gaza war or Bushs call for a ceasefire. Instead, the UDP went after her on unrelated issues, particularly her voting record in Congress.

Similarly, the UDP spent $15m to defeat Bowman in the most expensive primary in US history with a barrage of negative advertising that had little to do with his criticisms of Israel. Much of the UDPs money comes from billionaires who fund hardline pro-Israel causes and Republicans in other races, including some who have given to Donald Trumps campaign.

Jews for Cori, a coalition of progressive Jewish organisations, blamed Bushs loss on Aipacs interference on behalf of Israel and the Republicans.

While Aipac targeted both Bowman and Bush because of their support for Palestinian human rights, the group did not highlight or even mention this issue in their smear campaigns. While Aipac will claim their positions are good policy and good politics it is clear that they are well-aware that they are losing the battle for public opinion, it said.

Justice Democrats, which spent $1.8m on advertising in support of Bush, called her opponent an empty suit for Aipac and its GOP mega-donors to advance their own interests.

The groups director, Alexandra Rojas, argued that the huge spending by the pro-Israel lobby to defeat individual members of Congress is a sign of weakness.

As Aipacs influence in Congress wanes and the rightwing network that props it up is exposed, Aipac has to spend historic amounts in Democratic elections to continue advancing their interests at the expense of the Democratic mainstream that overwhelmingly supports a ceasefire and an end to the genocide in Gaza, she said.

Still, if Aipacs intent in targeting Bush and Bowman was to warn other members of Congress that there will be a price to pay for muscular criticism of Israeli government policies and adopting minority positions, such as opposition to the USs considerable military aid to Israel, then the strategy may have the desired effect of encouraging other politicians to keep their criticisms of Israel to themselves out of fear of a challenge from a well financed opponent.

But Aipac is known to intervene when their congressional foes are already vulnerable. A number of the groups former targets  other Squad members known for their criticisms of Israel  have been spared the onslaught, insulated by their popularity within their districts.

The UDP spent heavily to try and oust Pennsylvania congresswoman Summer Lee in the 2022 Democratic primaries. She won that race by less than 1% of the vote.

This year, the lobby largely steered clear of Lees race despite the emergence of a pro-Israel challenger. Lee won the primary by a margin of more than 20 points.

Similarly, a challenger backed by substantial pro-Israel money came close to unseating Ilhan Omar, another Squad member who has been accused of antisemitism over criticisms of Israel, in the 2022 primaries. Omar is again facing a challenge from the same opponent, Don Samuels, in next weeks Democratic primary, but Aipac and similar groups have not thrown as much money or effort into this years race. Opinion polls give Omar a substantial lead.

The UDP focused its efforts this year on Bush and Bowman, who were vulnerable to attack on issues other than Israel and Gaza, which many voters agree with them on. Both members of Congress struggled to justify voting against Joe Bidens trillion-dollar infrastructure bill  a primary line of attack of negative advertising.

The redrawing of the boundaries of Bowmans district reshaped it as a more traditionally Democratic constituency with less voter support for the Squad and progressive policies. Bowman was also open to criticism over an incident when he pulled a fire alarm at the Capitol in Washington DC in order to delay a vote on a government shutdown called by Republicans. He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanour over the incident.
Jenny Gilruth, Scotland's Education Secretary, must have been relieved by her interview on the Today programme - Jane Barlow/PA Wire

The latest figures on examination results are further evidence that the SNPs record on education is easily the worst of all the Scottish Governments devolved responsibilities.

It is a pretty dreadful indictment but its shortcomings were exposed again given the latest foul up by the SNP government and its examination body: the Scottish Qualifications Authority. True, it is to be replaced and supposedly enhanced by a new body called Qualifications Scotland but its boss and senior staff are to be retained, instead of sacked as has been demanded by opposition parties.

It was difficult to tell from the answers of Jenny Gilruth, the education minister on the Today programme but it was clear from her tone that she was determined to swat aside all criticism  such as that which featured on every newspaper front page  that greeted the publication of this years Highers and National Five results.

She was aided and abetted in this cavalier response by yet another softly-softly Today interview of SNP ministers by its presenters. This time it was Emma Barnett who was supposed to be asking the questions that need answering, to quote the programmes bosses.

That she didnt was simply par for the course for the Today programme in that it too often reckons that it had better cover a story thats dominating the news agenda north of the border but then pathetically fails to make sure that both its editors and presenters have a clue as to what the issues really are.

Result? Oh-so easy questions that prove that the interviewer doesnt really understand the situation bring forth pat-ball answers which, in this ministers case, must have left her breathing sighs of relief that shes got away with what many believe has been yet another significant failure of Scotlands children by her government.

The SNPs cast-iron pledges to close the attainment gap between the results for pupils from better-off families and those from poorer families have been broken; indeed the SNP administration has actually managed to increase the gap  an incredible but shameful achievement.

And in a humiliating glitch, which both the minister and senior staff seemed happy to airily dismiss, thousands of teenagers received a blank email that should have contained their grades.

This was just the latest in a whole series of shambolic episodes in the sorry history of how Scotland, under a devolved government, has failed to look after the future of its children. Where once it boasted of an excellent home-grown education system, Scotland has recently plummeted down international league tables with performance among 15 year-olds declining across reading, maths and science, according to research comparing education systems.

And although the responsibilities of the SQAs replacement body are to be changed, to outsiders it looks more like tinkering than anything substantial when what is required is a root and branch re-appraisal of the whole approach to educating Scotlands children.

Omens are not good

The initial omens are not good, given that the Educational Institute for Education  the EIS  is not only the countrys biggest teaching union but also calls all the shots in schools and colleges.

It wants a culture change to make school inspections  which are supposed to give parents guidance about which schools are best  less adversarial. Instead, it wants top-down inspections to be phased out and the introduction of more peer reviews.

In other words, teachers reviewing each other.

The overarching recent message of Scotlands education system is: what the EIS wants, is what the EIS invariably gets. It has done nothing to stem the declining standards in classes and exam results; indeed to some of its critics the opposite has been the case.

The infuriating news about this situation  certainly for parents and pupils  is that it is difficult to spot an improvement in the offing. Instead, SNP ministers will continue to put what teachers want before the needs of pupils.

And with fees increasing, including the addition of VAT next January, it may be difficult for parents to stump up for private schools. Only four per cent of pupils across Scotland currently attend private schools whereas in Edinburgh the total is around thirty per cent.

But theres one thing of which Im confident: it is the fact that when faced with sending their offspring to state schools where standards are on a declining spiral thanks to this SNP government, many parents will find a way, somehow, to find the wherewithal for those private school fees. Count on it.
Gerald Knus says 'anyone who gets on a rubber dinghy is sent back' under proposed plan removing the incentive to come - CHRIS J RATCLIFFE/REUTERS

Asylum seekers reaching the UK across the English Channel should be taken in by a group of EU countries, a leading migration expert has said.

Gerald Knaus, the Austrian-born co-founder of the Berlin-based European Stability Initiative, is best known as the architect of the 2016 EU-Turkey refugee agreement.

He has now claimed that the EU should absorb asylum seekers arriving in the UK on small boats, and said this would end up destroying the way people-smugglers operate.

In an interview with Germanys Der Spiegel magazine, Mr Knaus said: A group of EU countries should take in every asylum seeker who reaches the UK across the English Channel from a certain date.

In return, the UK would take a set number of asylum seekers or refugees from these EU countries for four years  for example 10,000 people per year. Anyone from the EU who wants to go there can apply.

Anyone who gets on a rubber dinghy is sent back. In one fell swoop, there would no longer be any incentive to cross the English Channel. The business model of the smugglers would be gone immediately.

Mr Knaus argued the current focus on fighting smugglers was ineffective, advocating for a strategy that combines tighter borders with legal pathways, similar to Canadas approach, to ensure humane border control.

He revealed that he had already held unofficial discussions with Labour on this theme, adding: There were a lot of unofficial talks, but there was a certain openness.

Starmer has the chance to regain control, and he can prove that this is of course possible without withdrawing from the European Convention on Human Rights, as some Conservatives are loudly demanding. The most important question for the British, however, is whether European countries can be found to join in.

As part of his proposal, Mr Knaus said Germany should lead this EU initiative alongside Denmark and Spain, with Austria potentially joining in later.

If Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, adopts the plan it could end up proving a role model scheme that would not just help the UK and the EU as a whole but Germany as well, he added.

The coalition government, the Chancellery and the Ministry of the Interior rightly declare that humane border control that reduces irregular migration is possible, he said.

Now Olaf Scholz could prove this and turn the cooperation in the English Channel into a model project, a role model for other deadly borders in the Mediterranean. That would be a breakthrough that would also immediately relieve the burden on Germany itself.

If the plan works, after two months no one will cross the English Channel in a boat. Germany would have taken in a few hundred, at most a few thousand people during this time, after which it would be over.

However, the UKs pledge would apply for many years. London would take in thousands of refugees or asylum seekers from Germany every year, without risking their lives. That would be European solidarity in the interests of all.
The Victorian Commission for Children and Young People, Liana Buchanan, says young South-Sudanese Australians feel that they and their families are being increasingly targeted by police. Photograph: Ellen Smith/The Guardian

The Victorian commissioner for children and young people says African-Australian youth are again the subject of intense media and police focus as the state responds to perceptions of a crime wave without working harder to identify the causes of offending.

Liana Buchanan, the principal commissioner of Victorias Commission for Children and Young People, said she was concerned that it did not appear any lessons had been learned from the African gangs furore, and implored the state government, police and the youth justice system not to respond in ways that would make the community less safe.

Buchanan spoke to Guardian Australia after an investigation into a botched homicide squad probe involving two South Sudanese-Australian teenagers, the victim and the accused.

She took on the role in 2016, right after the Moomba riots, and said more needed to be done to address an overrepresentation of South Sudanese-Australians in the youth justice system.

Related: A fathers quest for answers after police botched investigation into sons death

What I saw then was several years of intense media focus, political focus and policing focus on so-called African gangs, she said.

Were seeing that again now. Ive seen, in that time, some periods where there are clearly very intense so-called proactive policing approaches to identify and tackle youth offending, and Ive also seen some efforts in that period where theres really positive attempts to identify young people and divert them away.

But overall what Ive heard from young South Sudanese-Australians is that their experience is they have become more closely monitored, more surveilled. They feel that they and their families have become increasingly targeted by police.

Victoria police say it has dedicated proactive policing units in every division designed solely to strengthen community connection and engagement, including with members of the South Sudanese community.

Under Operation Alliance, a state-wide taskforce that police say is designed to keep youth out of street gangs, the force says it invests significant energy into intercepting young people who are yet to become firmly embedded within gangs so we can divert them away from a life of crime.

According to police figures from April, the force is actively monitoring 620 youth gang members across 43 gangs, a reduction of 127 youth gang members since September 2020.

Of these members, there are 249 recidivist offenders, including 59 who police have arrested more than 10 times in the past year.

Our proactive police often attend the homes of at-risk youth  alongside youth workers and other social services  purely to better understand their issues, offer support and connect with parents and siblings, a Victoria police spokesperson said.

This holistic approach is almost always well-received by concerned parents and families as they want the best for their child.

Related: Flawed Aguer Akech investigation shows why Victorias blanket suppression law is not fit for purpose

Buchanan is the deputy chair of the South Sudanese Australian Youth Justice Expert Working Group and has participated in five youth forums involving more than 250 youths of that background. She said it has became clear how insidious racism was in their lives and how little they trusted services and police.

What Im always really concerned about when I see community concern build and media narrative build, as it has been [is] whether government is going to pursue  approaches that are not based on the evidence.

What I havent seen is enough genuine effort to understand what are the drivers of offending, and given South Sudanese-Australians are so massively overrepresented in the justice system, what are the drivers for them  What is it about their experiences that are contributing to them coming into contact with police.

As a community were very inclined to want to blame and punish, and some of that is very understandable when you are talking about individual victims and their families, but actually that drives responses that are against good policy and are not effective. It stops us from looking at what is really driving offending, and putting investment into what is tackling those drivers.

Aside from racism and feeling excluded, Buchanan said that, from her experience, she believed those drivers were profound poverty in some South Sudanese-Australian families, intergenerational conflict between youths and parents, and unresolved trauma.

Youths also said they could not pursue other activities such as sport because their families could not afford or commit to it.
White coral at the Great Barrier Reef in 2024 after a mass bleaching event, one of many in recent years. Photograph: Ove Hoegh-Guldberg

Ocean temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef are now the hottest in at least 400 years and are an existential threat to the planets unique natural wonder, according to new scientific research.

Scientists analysed long-lived corals in and around the reef that keep a record of temperature hidden in their skeleton and matched them to modern observations.

The research, published in the prestigious journal Nature, used climate models to find the extreme temperatures of recent decades could not have happened without the extra greenhouse gases in the atmosphere caused mostly by burning fossil fuels.

The existential threat to the reef from the climate crisis was now realised, the scientists wrote, and without ambitious and rapid cuts to greenhouse gas emissions we will likely be witness to the demise of one of the Earths natural wonders.

The research comes two weeks after the World Heritage committee decided not to place the reef, which covers an area larger than Italy, on its list of sites in danger, saying it would consider the question again in 2026.

Global heating drove a fifth mass coral bleaching event in eight years across the reef this summer that scientists at the Australian Institute of Marine Science called the most extensive and extreme on record this week.

Before the bleaching, the institute said surveys showed coral cover in the north and central parts of the reef was the highest since monitoring began in the early 1980s.

For the new study, scientists built a record of temperatures for the peak three-month January to March period for heat for all years from 1618 onwards.

The study found 2024 was the hottest in at least 407 years and 1.73C hotter than the average for years before 1900.

Dr Benjamin Henley, lead author of the research at the University of Melbourne, said: I was shocked when I saw that data point pop out. We had to recheck it several times. Its shocking too to realise that right at the point, it was the warmest January to March the Coral Sea had experienced in at least 400 years.

The five other warmest years, in addition to 2024, were 2004, 2016, 2017, 2020 and 2022. Mass bleaching events were declared in five of those six hottest years.

Bleaching is a stress reaction to heat where the symbiotic algae that give corals their colour and nutrients is lost. Corals can recover, but are more susceptible to disease and struggle to reproduce. If temperatures remain high for too long, it can be fatal.

Henley said he hoped the new findings would be considered by the Australian government and Unesco in their assessments of the risk the reef faced from global heating.

It is our assessment that the reef is in danger, he said.

Most of the 22 corals  from the long-lived Porites genus  used to reconstruct temperatures were outside the Great Barrier Reef, but inside the broader Coral Sea region.

Coral bleaching describes a process where the coral animal expels the algae that live in their tissues and give them their colour and much of their nutrients.

Without their algae, a corals white skeleton can be seen through their translucent flesh, giving a bleached appearance.



Mass coral bleaching over large areas, first noticed in the 1980s around the Caribbean, is caused by rising ocean temperatures.



Some corals also display fluorescent colours under stress when they release a pigment that filters light. Sunlight also plays a role in triggering bleaching.



Corals can survive bleaching if temperatures are not too extreme or prolonged. But extreme marine heatwaves can kill corals outright.



Coral bleaching can also have sub-lethal effects, including increased susceptibility to disease and reduced rates of growth and reproduction.



Scientists say the gaps between bleaching events are becoming too short to allow reefs to recover.



Coral reefs are considered one of the planets ecosystems most at risk from global heating. Reefs support fisheries that feed hundreds of millions of people, as well as supporting major tourism industries.



The worlds biggest coral reef system  Australias Great Barrier Reef  has suffered seven mass bleaching events since 1998, of which five were in the past decade.

Each year, corals lay down bands of dense and less dense skeleton that scientists can count to work out how old they are. The relative amounts of the chemical strontium or the type of oxygen in these bands is dependant on the temperature of the water, and so acts as a proxy thermometer.

The reconstructed temperatures were checked against coral samples taken from the Great Barrier Reef and against modern observations of ocean temperatures.

Prof Helen McGregor, of the University of Wollongong and second author of the study, said the reef would face catastrophe if global heating is not addressed.

Related:As record heat risks bleaching 73% of the worlds coral reefs, scientists ask what do we do now?

She said: The very corals that have lived for hundreds of years and that gave us the data for our study are themselves under serious threat.

Prof Terry Hughes, a leading expert on coral bleaching at James Cook University who was not involved in the study, said: This new study  confirms very convincingly that coral bleaching and mass mortality in the [Great Barrier Reef] region is a modern phenomenon caused by anthropogenic heating.

It blows out of the water the persistent false claims that coral bleaching is somehow normal or cyclical.

Prof Peter Mumby, a University of Queensland reef scientist who was not involved in the research, said the patterns of heat in recent years were now well established. But he said the study authors were overly pessimistic about the future because different parts of the reef and corals were not responding uniformly to the rising heat.
JD Vance couched his criticism of Tim Walz in accusations that the Minnesota governor had never been in a combat zone. Photograph: Alex Brandon/AP

JD Vance went on the offensive on Wednesday, attacking the military record of Tim Walz, Kamala Harriss vice-presidential pick.

Speaking in Michigan, Donald Trumps Republican running mate said: You know what really bothers me about Tim Walz? When the United States Marine Corps  asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it. I did what they asked me to do and I did it honorably, and Im very proud of that service.

When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? He dropped out of the army and allowed his unit to go without him.

Related: Sofa so bad for JD Vance as Trumps VP pick faces swirling speculation

Now a US senator from Ohio, Vance, 40, deployed to Iraq in 2005, as a military journalist. Despite his title  combat correspondent  he did not experience combat.

Walz, 60, was in the army national guard for 24 years, in infantry and artillery, deploying in response to natural disasters on US soil and to Europe in support of operations in Afghanistan. He retired in 2005, to run for Congress, shortly before his unit deployed to Iraq.

He has faced attacks before. In 2018, he told Minnesota Public Radio: I know that there are certainly folks that did far more than I did. I know that. I willingly say that I got far more out of the military than they got out of me, from the GI bill to leadership opportunities to everything else.

A soldier who served under Walz, Al Bonnifield, said: Would the soldier look down on him because he didnt go with us? Would the common soldier say, Hey, he didnt go with us, hes trying to skip out on a deployment? And he wasnt.

 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.

Calling Walz very caring and a very good leader, Bonnifield said Walz helped him and other soldiers when they returned from Iraq.

Vance seized on footage publicized by the Harris campaign in which, discussing gun control reform, Walz says: We can make sure that those weapons of war that I carried in war is the only place where those weapons are at.

Vance said: He says, We shouldnt allow weapons that I used in war to be on the American streets.

Related: Trump claims  without evidence  to have saved Walz from protesters in 2020

Well, I wonder, Tim Walz, when were you ever in war? What was this weapon that you carried into war given that you abandoned your unit right before they went to Iraq? He has not spent a day in a combat zone. What bothers me about Tim Walz is the stolen valor garbage. Do not pretend to be something that youre not.

Observers suggested Vance was attempting to swift boat Walz  a reference to attacks on John Kerry, the decorated US navy Vietnam veteran and Massachusetts senator who ran for president against George W Bush in 2004.

Bush avoided serving in Vietnam but Republicans attacked Kerry regardless. The Republican operative (and wounded Gulf war veteran) widely credited with coordinating the effort, Chris LaCivita, now runs the Trump-Vance campaign.

In a statement, the Harris campaign said: After 24 years of military service, Governor Walz retired in 2005 and ran for Congress, where he chaired veterans affairs and was a tireless advocate for our men and women in uniform  As vice-president  he will continue to be a relentless champion for our veterans and military families.

It added: In his 24 years of service, the Governor carried, fired and trained others to use weapons of war innumerable times. Governor Walz would never insult or undermine any Americans service to this country  in fact, he thanks Senator Vance for putting his life on the line for our country. Its the American way.
Allegations of criminal misconduct and bikie links have been made against the unions construction arm. Photograph: William West/AFP/Getty Images

The Albanese government will next week push for new powers to appoint an administrator of the construction union, due to a delay in the Fair Work case brought after accusations of criminal misconduct and bikie links.

In a further toughening of Labors stance, the workplace relations minister, Murray Watt, signalled the government was considering calls for a joint federal and state police taskforce to investigate alleged criminal conduct in unions.

But in a bid to quell concern in union quarters of a wider crackdown, Watt told Guardian Australia that proposed ministerial powers to appoint an administrator would be limited to the construction division of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union.

In July, the former minister Tony Burke called the Australian federal police to investigate corruption allegations against the CFMEU after reports suggesting the unions construction arm had been infiltrated by bikies and criminals.

On Friday the Fair Work Commission asked the federal court to appoint barrister Mark Irving as independent administrator, a move that would allow him to sack individuals Watt said had done the wrong thing.

Watt had given the construction division a deadline of Friday to agree to the appointment. But Labor would probably need to introduce legislation as early as possible next week, he said, because of justice Michael Wheelahans decision to recuse himself as he had previously acted as counsel against the union.

After the recusal there was no sign it will be resolved this week, which would mean  we wont have a resolution and will introduce legislation, Watt told Guardian Australia.

Watt also cited all early signs the CFMEU would not consent, including comments from Queensland secretary Michael Ravbar accusing Labor of an anti-CFMEU crusade that would hurt workers pay and conditions.

Related: Fair Work nominates independent administrator to CFMEU amid criminal allegations against union

On Wednesday the national secretary of the construction division, Zach Smith, updated members that the union was considering advice from our legal team and has sought further information from the Fair Work Commission to decide on a response in the best interests of CFMEU members. He added: Your union, the CFMEU, is here to stay.

Watt said the key motivation was to clean up this union to protect the best interests of its members, arguing it had comprehensively lost its way, and lost its focus on its members.

There is no place for violence and thuggery in any worksite. Unfortunately it seems that is becoming far too frequent on construction worksites.

Watt cited alleged threats of violence including against other union officials.

Watt met with employer groups on Wednesday including the Australian Industry Group, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Business Council, after earlier consultation with the Australian Council of Trade Unions.

While some employer groups have called for a royal commission and possible deregistration, Watt said the Master Builders and contractors association want action, not further inquiries, and supported the governments decision to push for an administrator.

Watt ruled out deregistration or bringing back the Australian Building and Construction Commission, but noted that Labor had not ruled anything else out and could consider a range of other actions after an administrator was appointed.

Weve had countless inquiries that have not got to the bottom of this, and not charged the people involved.

People are asking: what more needs to be done around policing and criminal law enforcement? Thats one of the things were giving further thought to.

Watt noted calls for a special federal-state police taskforce, which the government is open to considering.

Smith has responded to serious allegations by placing the Victorian branch under the administration of the national office. The Victorian secretary John Setka had stepped down earlier in July.

We will establish an independent process to investigate any credible allegations of wrongdoing, Smith wrote to members on 15 July.

We have zero tolerance for criminality. Anyone found to have engaged in criminal conduct while representing the CFMEU will be identified and removed.

Smith said some reports had engaged in completely unwarranted smears on officials based on their histories or personal relationships.

Related: Labor suspends affiliation with construction arm of CFMEU

Andrew McKellar, the chief executive of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said an administrator needed to be appointed as a priority.

He argued this should be done on a comprehensive basis, not excluding the ACT and Western Australian branches, as the Fair Work application proposes.

Thats just a first step, a minimum step. Its not sufficient to address all of the concerns or ultimately to restore public confidence that the fundamental issues that go to heart of CFMEU business model are being addressed.

McKellar called for a review of procurement rules at all levels of government, and of funding from federal government infrastructure projects.

On Wednesday Smith claimed the Master Builders and other bosses groups have used the controversy to attack wages and conditions and there was no evidence base for claims the union had caused cost blowouts and time delays.
Neil Salmon in 1979. He was chair and secretary of the Ipswich Film Society for 40 years and a key member of many other societies Photograph: from family/-

My father, Neil Salmon, who has died aged 91, was for many years an English teacher and head of English at Northgate high school in Ipswich, Suffolk, where he introduced generations of pupils to the delights of literature and film.

He spent his entire working life at Northgate, and during that time also kept busy outside school as a key member of the Ipswich Chamber Music Society (for 60 years); chair and secretary of the Ipswich Film Society (40 years); a film reviewer for the Ipswich Arts Association magazine (20 years); and an editor of, and contributor to, the journal of the Ipswich Society (23 years), for which he also instigated the towns blue plaque scheme in 2001. He did not waste a moment of life.

Born in Hadleigh, Suffolk, to Victor, a bus conductor, and his wife, Grace (nee Green), Neil went from Sudbury grammar school to study English at Downing College, Cambridge, where he became friends with the artist Quentin Blake and was taught by the critic FR Leavis, whose book Education and the University (1948) had, a few years earlier, inspired him to commit his life to communicating the value of literature and the wider arts.

After staying on at Cambridge for teacher training (1956-57) he joined Northgate, rising to be head of English from 1974 until his retirement in 1986. He enthusiastically endorsed the schools transition from grammar to comprehensive status and encouraged many pupils to apply to leading universities  among them Trevor Nunn, who became a longstanding friend. Well into his 80s he was hailed in the streets of Ipswich by those he had taught.

In 1957 he married Joyce Forrest. They were members of Ipswich Labour party from the 1960s onwards, and always took the Guardian. Their shared passions were for music, socialism, travel and sport: Neil lived to see his beloved Ipswich Town FC return to the Premier League.

Joyce died in 2023. He is survived by their three children, Tom, Kay and me, and three grandchildren.
Angelina Yang holds a banner supporting Taiwanese athletes at the Paris Olympics. Photograph: Ann Wang/Reuters

Angelina Yang thought she knew the Olympic rules - no national flags, no political messages. She was excited to support her compatriot athletes at the Olympics Games in France, where she was living and studying. So the Taiwanese student made what she thought was an uncontroversial sign - the outline of her home island, with the words jiayou Taiwan (Go Taiwan) written in Chinese.

But as she unfurled the sign in the stadium stands to watch her team play China in badminton, she was quickly surrounded.

I was still holding my poster and the security kept talking to his co-worker with his walkie-talkie. After that there was a man, we [think] hes a Chinese man, he stood in front of me to block the poster.

The man then ripped it from her hands.

I was really surprised. And I was really sad and angry at the same time, Yang said. Were not doing anything wrong. Why would we be treated like this?

Taiwans foreign ministry described the incident as violent and against Olympic values of friendship and respect. It has called on French authorities to investigate. In response the IOC said there were very clear rules disallowing banners.

For decades Olympians from Taiwan - formally the Republic of China - have had to compete under the team name Chinese Taipei. The rule is strictly enforced by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The rules are often attributed to pressure on the IOC from the Chinese Communist party government, which claims Taiwan as Chinese territory it intends to annex. It uses its hefty influence to shrink as much of Taiwans international space as it can, whether thats at the United Nations or a birdwatching association.

But the name Chinese Taipei also dates back to Taiwans former authoritarian rulers, who for decades vied with Beijing to officially represent China on the international stage. In 1976 they rejected an offer from the IOC to compete as Team Taiwan instead of Republic of China. Today, Team Taiwan would more accurately represent the population, which increasingly identifies as primarily Taiwanese, but it is no longer an option.

Now, Taiwan is one of just three teams whose flag is banned at the Olympics. The other two are Russia and Belarus - banned as punishment for Moscows invasion of Ukraine. Under apparent pressure from China, the IOC refuses to let Taiwan enter under its national name. US politicians have described the IOCs stance as uniquely irrational, saying that even if it was commonly accepted that Taiwan was a territory, others  like the British territory of Bermuda, or the USs Puerto Rico  were allowed to compete under their own name.

The incident was one of several at the Paris Games to spark anger among Taiwanese people over Olympic rules which restrict the ways they can cheer on their national team.

Fans have tried to be creative. One sign at the badminton finals cheered on bubble tea land. Another spelled out Taiwan with pictures of food. But on the same day Yangs sign was grabbed, security were pictured confiscating a towel with Taiwan written on it. The design incorporated a video review decision from the 2020 Badminton final in Tokyo, which gave Taiwan the gold medal over China. A man wearing a T-shirt with the same design was told to put on a jacket.

Sandy Hsueh, president of the Taiwanese Association in France, told Taiwan media a blank piece of cardboard had been taken from her by officials who ignored her complaints about nearby Chinese fans having a larger-than-allowed flag. She told CNA shed been told they had received an instruction from the Olympic Games saying that anything related to Taiwan or showing Taiwan cannot appear, and there have been widespread allegations of Chinese nationals pointing out Taiwanese supporters to security.

At Taipei Main Station on Sunday, thousands gathered to watch Taiwan defend and repeat their gold medal win in the mens badminton doubles. Fans waved the national flag as well as the official Chinese Taipei banner. The highly charged match was as thrilling a derby as the 2020 battle in Tokyo.

But it also prompted some sadness, as the medal ceremony raised the IOC-sanctioned flag for Chinese Taipei, and a different song, repurposed for the Olympics, played instead of the anthem.

In some international environments we dont have a lot of opportunities to say we are Taiwan, so at this time we want to stand up and say we are from Taiwan, said Nancy Tung, a 23-year-old student at the station.

For three Taiwanese friends in the crowd, they were more pragmatic.

We just love Taiwan. Taiwan and Chinese Taipei are still all Taiwan, said Ivy Shieh, a Taiwanese fan also watching the match.

Yang plans to go to the police, and has support from Taiwans representative in France, Wu Chih-chung. When facing the Chinese team, the IOC will treat Taiwan very harshly, Wu told Taiwan media. Yang said the current rules are nonsense and she hopes they can change soon.

I hope in the Olympic Games we can support our team just like other people can, she said. We follow the rules, but why cant we bring our own poster thats neutral and non-political? Thats all I want, and all I hope Taiwanese people can do.
Ed Balls, with co-host Kate Garraway, asked Yvette Cooper if there had been 'two-tier approach' to policing - GOOD MORNING BRITAIN/ITV

More than 8,000 people have complained to the media regulator after Ed Balls interviewed his wife, the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, on Good Morning Britain.

The former Labour MP and ex-shadow chancellor, 57, questioned Ms Cooper on Mondays show about the violent protests in the wake of the killing of three young girls in Southport.

This prompted accusations of conflict of interest. There were also complaints about how Balls and Kate Garraway, his co-host, questioned Zarah Sultana, the Left-wing Labour MP.

On Wednesday, Ofcom revealed the Monday programme attracted 8,201 complaints.

Ofcom also received complaints about how Balls and Garraway questioned Zarah Sultana, the Left-wing Labour MP - KEN McKAY/ITV/SHUTTERSTCOK

During the interview, Balls asked the Home Secretary whether officers had policed protests by far-Right activists and pro-Palestine demonstrators differently.

The former Strictly Come Dancing contestant asked if there had been a two-tier approach to policing, and if police had been softer and more cautious when policing pro-Palestine protests, compared with a tougher approach over the past week.

Ms Cooper, who has been married to Balls for more than 25 years and has three children with him, said that police had to operate without fear or favour, whatever the kinds of crimes it is that they face.

Genuine questions

Before the interview, which was led mostly by Garraway, Balls said he had genuine questions for Ms Cooper, as he has rarely seen her at all in the last week because of the disorder on the streets.

Earlier, Ms Sultana, the Labour MP, had a combative interview with Garraway and Balls about the rioters. The presenters interrupted her as she called for political leaders to condemn the protests as Islamophobic and racist.

Balls and Garraway both told Ms Sultana that she had to answer questions.

She replied: Im going to wait for Kate to finish her question, if thats all right. Balls interjected, saying: If you want to answer the questions, its your call.

Balls continued to interrupt her as she replied to Garraways question about why she wanted politicians to call out Islamophobia.

Ms Sultana then asked Balls if she can finish, and criticised an article that he wrote about immigration.

Balls, who was a Labour MP from 2005 to 2015, defended a 2010 Guardian opinion column titled: We were wrong to allow so many eastern Europeans into Britain.

Visceral denial

Well, youve moved from attacking Andrew to attacking me, Balls added, referring to Ms Sultanas comments about Andrew Pierce, the Daily Mail columnist.

After the interview, Ms Sultana posted on X, formerly Twitter, a clip of her on Good Morning Britain and wrote: The media and political class is complicit in the far-Right, racist and Islamophobic violence were seeing across our country.

This morning, I experienced the visceral denial of this reality.

Later on the programme, Garraway began her questioning of Ms Cooper by saying: Can I ask, because weve 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.

Balanced, fair and impartial

Theyve been using racist language. Theyve been using falsehoods about what happened in Southport.

This is happening on the social media platforms. What can be done, what should be done now by the social media companies and the police and the Government to stop this happening, because its been happening for a week?

An ITV spokesman told the BBC it considered its interviews to be balanced, fair and duly impartial.

An Ofcom spokesman told the BBC: We are assessing the complaints against our broadcasting rules, but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.
Cori Bush attends a House hearing in Washington DC, in 2023. Photograph: REX/Shutterstock

A prominent member of the progressive Squad in Congress, Cori Bush, has lost her Democratic primary in St Louis after pro-Israel pressure groups spent millions of dollars to unseat her over criticisms of Israels war on Gaza.

St Louis prosecutor Wesley Bell defeated Missouris first Black female member of Congress with about 51% of the vote. Bush took about 46%.

Bells win marks a second major victory for the powerful American Israel Public Affairs Committee (Aipac) after it played a leading role in unseating New York congressman Jamaal Bowman, another progressive Democrat who criticised the scale of Palestinian civilians deaths in Gaza, in a June primary.

Aipac pumped $8.5m into the race in Missouris first congressional district to support Bell through its campaign funding arm, the United Democracy Project (UDP), after Bush angered some pro-Israel groups as one of the first members of Congress to call for a ceasefire after the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel.

Much of the UDPs money comes from billionaires who fund hardline pro-Israel causes and Republicans in other races, including some who have given to Donald Trumps campaign.

Bush condemned Hamas for the killing of 1,139 people, mostly Israelis, and for abducting hundreds of others in October. But she also infuriated some Jewish and pro-Israel groups by describing Israels subsequent attack on Gaza and large scale killing of civilians as collective punishment against Palestinians and a war crime.

Related: Pro-Israel groups have set sights on unseating this progressive lawmaker. Will they succeed?

During the campaign, the UDP flooded St Louis with advertising hostile to Bush  although, as in other congressional races targeted by pro-Israel groups, it rarely mentioned the war on Gaza that has claimed nearly 40,000 Palestinian lives, mostly civilians, or her call for a ceasefire.

Instead, the campaign focused on Bushs voting record in Congress, particularly her failure to support Joe Bidens trillion-dollar infrastructure bill in 2021 and her support for the defund the police campaign. Bush struggled to get her message across that the UDP is misrepresenting both situations.

The UDP accounted for more than half of all the money spent on the race outside the campaigns themselves.

Bell has denied being recruited by pro-Israel groups to run against Bush, but suspicion lingered after he abandoned a challenge for the US Senate and entered the congressional race not long after Jewish organisations in St Louis began to seek a candidate to take on Bush after accusing her of intentionally fuelling antisemitism.

Bell is expected to win what is one of the safest Democratic congressional seats in Novembers general election.
Cori Bush with supporters at an election watch party on Tuesday in St Louis - Christian Gooden/St Louis Post-Dispatch via AP

A second member of the Democrats Left-wing Squad in Congress has been ousted after a $9 million campaign by pro-Israel groups.

Cori Bush, a vocal critic of Israels war in Gaza, lost the Democratic primary for her seat in St Louis, Missouri, to Wesley Bell, a local prosecutor, by 46 per cent to 51 per cent.

The district is staunchly Democratic and Mr Bell is expected to hold it in Novembers election.

Ms Bush will continue to represent the seat until the new Congress sits in January.

A former nurse, the 48-year-old came to prominence during the Black Lives Matter movement and first ran for Congress in 2021.

Outspoken over military support for Israel

She was known as one of the so-called Squad of mostly female, progressive representatives in Congress.

The group has been outspoken on its partys military support for Israel, and its members were among the earliest to call for a ceasefire following the Oct 7 Hamas attacks and Israels subsequent ground invasion of Gaza.

Ms Bush is a major scalp for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (Aipac), which has vowed to spend more than $100 million targeting members of Congress who have criticised Israels war in Gaza.

Almost all the money spent campaigning against Ms Bush is reported to have come from the lobbying group.

Cori Bush tried to hold back tears as her defeat became clear - Christian Gooden/St Louis Post-Dispatch via AP

In her concession speech, Ms Bush declared: All they did was radicalise me, so now they need to be afraid. Aipac, Im coming to tear your kingdom down.

Her fellow Squad member Jamaal Bowman, a two-term New York congressman, was defeated in a June primary.

Around $16 million was spent by Aipac and other pro-Israel groups on boosting his successful challenger, George Latimer, making it the most expensive primary in US history.

While most of the attack adverts deployed against Ms Bush did not explicitly mention Israel, Aipac dominated the race by spending around $9 million on advertising.

Congresswoman has denied spending allegations

The St Louis congresswoman has faced a number of challenges in recent months. There have been federal and congressional investigations into her campaign spending amid claims she improperly paid her husband, a security guard, for protection.

She has denied any wrongdoing and previously said the allegations were simply false.

Ms Bushs defeat is further proof that being pro-Israel is good policy and good politics, United Democracy Project, an Aipac-affiliated group, said on Tuesday night.

The group vowed to continue our efforts to support leaders working to strengthen the US-Israel alliance.
Robert Jenrick said he has been 'very critical of police in the past, particularly around the attitude of some police forces to the protests we saw since October 7' - Darren Staples

Robert Jenrick has said police should immediately arrest any protesters shouting Allahu Akbar, prompting a row with Muslim parliamentarians.

Speaking to Sky News on Wednesday morning, Mr Jenrick said it was quite wrong that pro-Palestinian protesters had been allowed to chant Allahu Akbar, which means God is great, without being arrested.

I have been very critical of police in the past, particularly around the attitude of some police forces to the protests we saw since October 7, he said.

I thought it was quite wrong that somebody could shout Allahu Akbar on the streets of London and not be immediately arrested, project genocidal chants onto Big Ben and not be immediately arrested. That attitude is wrong, and Ill always call out the police for it.

His comments came amid allegations of two-tier policing, with critics claiming the police treat Left-wing protesters with more leniency than Right-wing ones.

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The Tory leadership candidates remarks were criticised by prominent Muslim parliamentarians including Sayeeda Warsi, the Conservative peer, and the Labour MP Naz Shah, who accused Mr Jenrick of textbook Islamophobia.

Baroness Warsi wrote on X, formerly Twitter: Every day before we start parliamentary business in the Commons and Lords we say a prayer and praise God  we say our parliamentary version of Allahu Akbars at the heart of democracy  a process Robert Jenrick is a part of.

This language from Jenrick is more of his usual nasty, divisive rhetoric  he is such a tool.

Ms Shah, the MP for Bradford West, said: This is complete ignorance and textbook Islamophobia from Robert Jenrick. It literally equates every Muslim in the world with extremism ... Its a basic Islamic saying that every Muslim in the world says in prayer.

Imagine, in this climate, either being that ignorant or deliberately trying to stigmatise all Muslims. He should apologise and speak to Muslim communities and learn more about our faith.

Mr Jenrick then took to X to clarify his position, writing:

'Allahu Akbar' is spoken peacefully and spiritually by millions of British Muslims in their daily lives.



But the aggressive chanting below is intimidatory and threatening. And it's an offence under Section 4 and 5 of the Public Order Act.



Extremists routinely abuse common pic.twitter.com/XpLJ9OilyC  Robert Jenrick (@RobertJenrick) August 7, 2024

Addressing claims of two-tier policing, Mr Jenrick told The Daily T podcast that communities must not be left to police themselves.

He said: [Police] must be robustly enforcing the law without fear or favour. I dont want them to be squeamish or selective in the way in which they do that.

I dont think that policing should be dictated by community leaders. We shouldnt be leaving communities to police themselves. The police should be on our streets right now in the affected communities, keeping the public safe.

His comments came in response to an interview in which Superintendent Emlyn Richards, of West Midlands Police, told Sky News the force had responded to the requests of members of the community to be allowed to police protests within themselves.

Mr Jenrick also accused Sir Keir Starmer of being scared to clamp down on retaliatory protests, saying: I also think that the retaliatory protests and riots by sectarian groups, smaller in number, are equally disgraceful.

And it concerns me that some of our political leaders, the Prime Minister in particular, appeared to be scared of saying so.

I think sometimes the police are more concerned about community relations than they are about robust and fair enforcement of the law.
Russian President Vladimir Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putins willingness to provide military backing to Iran in its deepening confrontation with Israel could prove to be an even greater strategic disaster than his ill-fated invasion of Ukraine.

Political expediency has been the driving force behind the military alliance between the Kremlin and the ayatollahs that has developed during the past two years.

While Russia has a long history of involvement with Tehran, dating back to the Soviet era, the relationship has often been dogged by mutual suspicion, especially by the Iranians who have bitter memories of Moscows centuries-old desire to subjugate the country to its will. Despite this, the two countries have cooperated closely on a number of issues since the 1979 Iranian revolution, not least on the nuclear front, where Moscow made a significant contribution to building Irans Bushehr nuclear reactor in the Gulf. This support was maintained despite the Kremlins deep reservations about Irans attempts to acquire nuclear weapons.

Moscow has also provided technical assistance in other sensitive areas, such as ballistic missile development. Tehrans arsenal of Shahab ballistic missiles, for example, is based on Moscows Soviet-era Scud missiles.

The relationship has, though, moved to an entirely new level since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022, when the international isolation Moscow suffered as a result of its unprovoked aggression forced it to forge even closer ties to Tehran.

The disastrous consequences of Russias invasion of Ukraine has resulted in Iran providing the Kremlin with practical assistance in avoiding Western sanctions. In particular, Tehran, which has much expertise in avoiding sanctions owing to its own classification as a rogue state, has helped Russia to establish a dark fleet of untraceable tankers that has enabled it to maintain vital oil and gas exports.

In return, Moscow has negotiated a series of lucrative arms contracts with Tehran, with Iran providing vital military support for Russias war effort in Ukraine, including the Iranian-made drones that are regularly used to target Ukrainian infrastructure.

Now, with the drums of war between Iran and Israel growing ever louder, Iran is turning to Moscow to repay the favour by providing it with vital military hardware.

Many Western leaders believe the dramatic escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel following last weeks assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh will lead to renewed conflict, with the expectation that Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed terror group based in southern Lebanon, will intensify its bombardment of northern Israel.

Given the humiliation Iran suffered in April, when Israeli warplanes easily evaded Iranian air defences and bombed a key military base in Isfahan, the Iranian regime is, understandably, keen to bolster its defences. It was a point new Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian was keen to stress when Putins personal envoy, former defence minister Sergei Shoigu, visited Tehran earlier this week. As well as seeking extra supplies of Russian air defence equipment, Iran is keen to acquire SU-35 fighter jets.

While Putin, after all the military backing Iran has given to the Ukraine war effort, will find it hard to resist Tehrans appeals for help, it is clear that the Russian leader has reservations about supporting Irans increasingly bellicose attitude towards Israel.

The Kremlins disquiet is evident from Putins personal message to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, asking Iran to show restraint and not attack Israeli civilians, a somewhat ironic request given Moscows own lack of interest in avoiding civilian casualties in Ukraine.

For Putin, providing military support for Iran is not without complications, not least the impact it could have with his long-standing friendship with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

During the Syrian civil war, for example, the alliance between Putin and Netanyahu often resulted in Russian forces turning a blind eye when Israel attacked Iranian positions in Syrian territory controlled by the Russian military, even though the Iranians were fighting alongside the Russians to keep Syrias Assad regime in power. At a time when Russia is already suffering from the effects of international isolation, any military support Putin provides to Iran risks damaging his important bilateral ties with the Israelis.

Another factor that will influence Putins calculations is his realisation that, in any confrontation between Israel and Iran, the ayatollahs are guaranteed to end up on the losing side.

Irans preference for relying on proxy terrorist groups, such as Hamas and Hezbollah, to fight on its behalf is based on the knowledge that, in a direct war with Israel, the Iranians are no match for Israels military superiority. This was clearly evident last April when Iran launched its first direct assault on Israel, only to see its 300-strong barrage of missiles and drones easily intercepted by Israel and its allies including the UK.

After the major strategic blunder Putin made by launching his invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Russian leader cannot afford to make another potentially calamitous error of judgment by backing Iran in a war with Israel, one the Iranians have no chance of winning.
Derek Drummond, 58, of Pool Street, Southport, was sentenced on Wednesday

A rioter who said he was a fool for getting involved in disorder at a mosque and punching a police officer has been jailed for three years.

Derek Drummond, 58, of Pool Street, Southport, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday, after pleading guilty to violent disorder charges and assaulting an emergency worker.

Drummond was among a group of around 300 people who marched towards a mosque in the Merseyside town on July 30, chanting this is our fing country, a court had previously heard.

The 58-year-old haulier also screamed shhouses at police as they tried to put on their protective gear during a riot. He then attacked a male officer who was attempting to protect colleagues, punching him in the face.

Ashamed of the way I acted

Following a public appeal, Drummond handed himself into police and said he was a fool.

He said he attended the Southport vigil before getting caught up in riots and letting his family down, MailOnline reported.

Drummond accepted his behaviour was appalling but could not give any explanation, telling detectives: Im absolutely ashamed of the way I acted. Ive let Southport down, Ive let the kids down. Ive let my family down and Im not here to deny anything.

On Wednesday, courts across the country heard pleas from those accused of participation in riots which broke out following a fatal knife attack on three girls in Southport last Monday.

In Birmingham a 46-year-old man seen carrying a wooden stick on Sky News at a counter-protest on Monday pleaded not guilty to possessing it as an offensive weapon.

Shehraz Sarwar claimed he had a reasonable excuse to carry the item as a religious staff.

Mr Sarwar claims to have carried the stick locally for more than 11 years and to be a well-known character in the Saltley and Alum Rock areas.

Mr Sarwar, who is not accused of any involvement in violent disorder, said I never done nothing, judge and give me a chance as he was remanded in custody.

Rioter who set fire to police van jailed

Accused rioters are swiftly being processed through the court system at a swift pace after the prime minister insisted on Tuesday they would feel the full force of the law.

Police are using social media footage and CCTV video to track down alleged participants, a significant portion of which appears to have been broadcast by those charged with offences.

Two other rioters who took part in the violent rallies in Liverpool on Saturday were jailed at Liverpool Crown Court today after pleading guilty to violent disorder.

Declan Geiran, 29, set fire to a seatbelt in a police van while the vehicle was parked in the city centre.

Footage uploaded to TikTok showed Geiran at the open window on the drivers side as he set the vehicle alight, the court heard. He was swiftly tracked on CCTV footage and arrested a short time later.

Geiran, who has 13 previous convictions, was handed a two-and-a-half year sentence.

Declan Geiran, 29, has been handed a two-and-a-half year sentence

Brendan Carville, defending, told the court that his client had emotionally unstable personality disorder and was not a clever man.

He added: He doesnt understand what far right and far left means. He simply went along with the flow.

Liam Riley, 41, from Kirkdale, received 20 months after admitting to violent disorder and a racially aggravated public order offence.

Riley was ordered to move back by police, who were being pelted with missiles and rocks by an aggressive, chanting group of about 100 people.

The 41-year-old, whom the prosecution described as clearly drunk, stood his ground while others retreated, shouting and waving his arms around.

He was arrested after he verbally abused one officer as he called him a traitor and a Muslim lover.

Liam Riley, from Kirkdale, received 20 months after admitting to violent disorder

Mr Carville said Riley had no previous convictions and described him as a loner. He said Riley went to a number of pubs and then stupidly became involved with disorder. He added: In many respects, he is a very foolish man.

Jonathan Egan, senior district crown prosecutor, said: The three men sentenced today are the tip of the iceberg, and just the start of what will be a very painful process for many who foolishly chose to involve themselves in violent unrest.

Many of those involved will be sent to prison for a long time.

At Manchester Magistrates Court Aaron Johnson, 32, pleaded guilty to inciting racial hatred by using racist language on a live-stream he broadcast to millions of people from outside a hotel which was thought to contain asylum seekers.

Prosecutor Laura Peers told the court: Members of staff became aware of the defendant live streaming from his mobile phone onto YouTube.

Ms Peers said Johnson was aggressive to hotel staff, and told them he would smash their face in.

Four more men appeared in the same court accused of violent disorder, including Liam Ryan, 28, who cried as he pleaded guilty to the charge.

Ms Peers social media footage showed a black male being confronted by a large group of white males, adding that Ryan had played an active role in the disorder and could be seen aiming a punch towards the male involved.

Jake Turton, 38, was refused bail when he appeared at Sheffield Magistrates Court after he was charged in connection with rioting in Rotherham.

As he left the dock, one of his supporters in court shouted keep it up and Turton replied See you in a bit, lads, with a thumbs-up sign.
Robert Jenrick has been criticised by a rival for the Conservative leadership and Muslim parliamentarians for saying police should immediately arrest any protesters shouting Allahu Akbar, the Arabic phrase that means God is great.

The former immigration minister was speaking on Sky News about the accusations that police have been treating far-right marches and violence more harshly than other protests.

Jenrick said on Sky News he had been angered by the way pro-Palestinian demonstrations had been policed. I have been very critical of police in the past, particularly around the attitude of some police forces to the protests we saw since [the Hamas attack on Israel on] 7 October.

I thought it was quite wrong that somebody could shout Allahu Akbar on the streets of London and not be immediately arrested; project genocidal chants on to Big Ben and not be immediately arrested. That attitude is wrong and Ill always call out the police for it.

Jenrick, who is one of the favourites to win the Conservative leadership, was criticised by Mel Stride, the former work and pensions secretary who is also vying for the leadership, as well as by the deputy prime minister, Angela Rayner, and the Conservative peer Sayeeda Warsi. Jenrick said his comments were about the words in the context of protests.

Stride said the suggestion of wholesale criminalisation of the words Allahu Akbar is unwise and insensitive.

Any threat in the use of these words can only ever be implied in the very rarest of circumstances, he added. Context clearly matters hugely here.

Rayner, who was speaking in Rotherham as reports spread of further far-right violence on Wednesday night, said: People like Robert Jenrick have been stirring up some of the problems that weve seen in our communities. Actually, what we want to see is communities coming together, and the vast majority of the public want to see that.

When Jenricks comments were first aired, Lady Warsi wrote on X: Every day before we start parliamentary business in the Commons and Lords we say a prayer and praise God  we say our parliamentary version of Allahu Akbars at the heart of democracy  a process Robert Jenrick is a part of. This language from Jenrick is more of his usual nasty divisive rhetoric  he is such a tool.

Naz Shah, the MP for Bradford West, said: This is complete ignorance and textbook Islamophobia from Robert Jenrick. It literally equates every Muslim in the world with extremism  Its a basic Islamic saying that every Muslim in the world says in prayer.

Imagine in this climate, either being that ignorant or deliberately trying to stigmatise all Muslims. He should apologise and speak to Muslim communities and learn more about our faith.

Afzal Khan, another Labour MP, said: Another day, another senior Tory being Islamophobic. Allahu Akbar means God is great  the Muslim equivalent of hallelujah. Jenricks confidence in going on national TV to say people should be arrested for saying Allahu Akbar exposes his deep-seated prejudice against Muslims.

Speaking later on Times Radio, Jenrick stood by his comments. I fundamentally disagree with Sayeeda Warsi  If a politician like myself, a political leader who aspires to be leader of the opposition of our country, cannot speak out about the undoubted problem we have as a country with Islamist extremism for fear of being falsely labelled as a racist by an individual such as Sayeeda Warsi, then that is a very troubling situation.

The Muslim Council of Britain said: We are shocked at Robert Jenricks claim on Sky News this morning that those who proclaim God is great (or Allahu Akbar) in public should be arrested.

As a prospective leader, Mr Jenrick should be showing leadership, reassuring our communities when fear is palpable. Instead, calling for a well-worn religious phrase to warrant arrest is the kind of divisive language we would come to expect by sections of the media and politicians. This divisive rhetoric has emboldened the far-right thugs we see on our streets today.

He should apologise, fully retract his comments and speak to ordinary Muslims to understand why his remarks are so outrageous. Rather than inflaming tensions, he should focus on ways to bring communities together.

Jenrick posted on X later on Wednesday that he acknowledged it was a religious phrase, but said it could also be used as part of public disorder.

Posting a video of masked protesters, he said: Allahu Akbar is spoken peacefully and spiritually by millions of British Muslims in their daily lives. But the aggressive chanting below is intimidatory and threatening. And its an offence under section 4 and 5 of the Public Order Act. Extremists routinely abuse common expressions for their own shameful ends. All violence must end. All violence must be called out.
Supreme Court has refused to hear Shamima Begum's appeal - The Shamima Begum Story/BBC

Shamima Begum will go to the European Court of Human Rights after UK judges refused to hear her appeal against the removal of her British nationality on national security grounds.

The Supreme Court said Begum, who was born and raised in Tower Hamlets, east London, could not challenge the 2019 revocation of her citizenship after she joined Islamic State.

The decision means she will never be allowed to return to Britain after travelling to terrorist-controlled territory in Syria as a 15-year-old in 2015.

But the 24-year-olds lawyers said the UKs highest court had left resolution to another court, this time in Strasbourg.

A spokesman for Birnberg Pierce Solicitors said: We, her lawyers, will take every possible legal step including to petition the European Court of Human Rights.

Any legal challenge in the Strasbourg court is likely to take years to conclude, even if the case is deemed admissible.

Begum married an Islamic State fighter soon after arriving in Syria and had three children, none of whom survived. She is now living in a guarded refugee camp in northern Syria.

Although British-born, she had Bangladeshi citizenship until she was at least 21 but the country has made clear it will not accept her. She has sought to return to the UK to challenge the loss of her citizenship since 2019.

Her lawyers said: It is a matter of the gravest concern that British women and children have been arbitrarily imprisoned in a Syrian camp for five years, all detained indefinitely without any prospect of a trial.

All other countries in the UKs position have intervened and achieved the return of their citizens and their children.

In the Supreme Court decision, Lords Reed, Hodge and Lloyd-Jones found Begums proposed appeal grounds do not raise an arguable point of law.

This included whether Begum should have been able to make representations to Sajid Javid, the then home secretary, who stripped her of her citizenship.

Begum lost a Court of Appeal challenge in February this year before Wednesdays decision. In February 2023, the Special Immigration Appeal Commission rejected her appeal.

The UK is part of the Council of Europe, which is not an EU body. It is a signatory to its European Convention of Human Rights and is subject to its court, the ECHR.

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The ECHR cannot overrule British courts but they are obliged to consider its decisions, and some Conservatives have called for it to be reformed or for the UK to leave it.

In June 2022, the ECHR stopped the first flight in the now ditched Rwanda Plan from taking off.

It also blocked the deportation of radical cleric Abu Qatada to Jordan in 2012 on grounds he might be tortured in his home country. He was deported in 2013.

When he was prime minister, Rishi Sunak said that if he had to choose between our security and the jurisdiction of a foreign court, he would choose Britains security.

A fortnight after Labours landslide victory, Sir Keir Starmer told gathered leaders at the European Political Community summit that the UK would never leave the ECHR.

Maya Foa, the director of legal charity Reprieve, called on the new Government to take responsibility for British nationals in Begums position and repatriate them.

She said: Exiling British nationals like Ms Begum is about politics, not the law. The prior governments failed do-nothing approach must be abandoned.

If Shamima Begum has committed crimes, she can be charged and prosecuted in a British court. The UK is more than capable of handling the case of a 15-year-old schoolgirl who was groomed online by an organised trafficking operation.
Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams. The pair, who left for an eight-day mission on Boeings Starliner capsule in June, may return on SpaceXs crew dragon next year, Nasa says. Photograph: NASA

Two US astronauts who blasted into space for an eight-day mission in June may be stuck on the International Space Station until next year if their Boeing Starliner cannot be repaired for them to return home, Nasa has said.

Nasa officials on Wednesday said astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who became the first crew to fly Boeings Starliner capsule, could return on SpaceXs Crew Dragon in February 2025 if Starliner is still deemed unsafe to return to Earth.

The US space agency has been discussing potential plans with SpaceX to leave two seats empty on an upcoming Crew Dragon launch, which itself was delayed by a month on Tuesday, as Nasa and Boeing work out how to bring the astronauts home.

Related: Not stranded in space: how Nasa lost control of Boeing Starliner narrative

The astronauts test mission on 5 June, initially expected to last about eight days on the station, has been drawn out by issues on Starliners propulsion system that have increasingly called into question the spacecrafts ability to safely return them to Earth as planned.

A Boeing spokesperson said if Nasa decides to change Starliners mission, the company will take the actions necessary to configure Starliner for an uncrewed return.

Using a SpaceX craft to return astronauts that Boeing had planned to bring back on Starliner would be a major blow to an aerospace giant that has struggled for years to compete with SpaceX and its more experienced Crew Dragon.

Starliner has been docked to the ISS for 63 of the maximum 90 days it can stay, and it is parked at the same port that Crew Dragon will have to use to deliver the upcoming astronaut crew.

The SpaceX Crew-9 launch was initially scheduled for mid-August. Nasa now says the mission will launch after 24 September.

Boeing said in July that after rigorous ground tests, engineers pinpointed issues within the Starliner, including the abrupt malfunction of thrusters and helium leaks.

In a 2 August statement, the company said its confidence remains high in Starliners return with crew.

Recent reports had suggested there was more conflict behind the scenes between Nasa and Boeing leaders. Some of the agencys leaders had appeared to question whether the Starliner should bring Williams and Wilmore back.

A meeting this week of Nasas Commercial Crew Program, which oversees Starliner, ended with some officials disagreeing with a plan to accept Boeings testing data and use Starliner to bring the astronauts home, officials said during the news conference on Wednesday.

We didnt poll in a way that led to a conclusion, Commercial Crew Program chief Steve Stich said.

We heard from a lot of folks that had concerns, and the decision was not clear, Ken Bowersox, Nasas space operations chief, added.

A Boeing executive was not at the Wednesday press conference.

Space experts told the Guardian it was not unusual or unexpected for an experimental spaceflight to develop issues.

Its defined as a test mission, its called a crewed test flight, and one of its things is to deal with unplanned issues, said Jerry Stone, senior associate of the Space Studies Institute and author of One Small Step.

But the stakes are high for Boeing, which has been battling a PR crisis for the last few years over its aircraft.

At the companys last press conference about the Starliner, Mark Nappi, Boeings commercial crew program manager, said he regretted being so emphatic about how the mission would last only eight days.

Its my regret that we didnt just say were going to stay up there until we get everything done that we want to go do, Nappi said.

Boeings testing so far has shown that four of Starliners jets had failed in June because they overheated and automatically turned off, while other thrusters re-fired during tests appeared weaker than normal because of some restriction to their propellant.

Reuters contributed to this report
Some seabird colonies have starved for lack of food due to sand eel stocks being wiped out. Photograph: Cpuk/Alamy

If you have seen a sand eel, it is probably in a cute picture on a wildlife calendar hanging out of the beak of a puffin on the way to feed its young. Almost certainly you would have also eaten some, either in the form of fish oil, or because you have dined on farmed salmon.

Raitts sand eel, Ammodytes marinus, is the most common of a number of species of sand eels that live round the coasts of Britain and has been so ruthlessly commercially fished it has become threatened. The 30cm eel-like fish bury themselves in the sand in winter but emerge in spring and summer to breed and become a vital part of the marine food chain. Normally, this and other species live in shoals of many thousands in and around sandy seabeds and are food for many seabirds and larger fish. Catches close to 500,000 tonnes a year, mostly landed in Denmark, have wiped out stocks and as numbers have decreased, some seabird colonies have starved for lack of food.

It has taken three decades of campaigning by a variety of scientists and environmental groups to finally get a ban on commercial sand eel fishing in the English and Scottish waters of the North Sea. The EU is contesting the ban but, meanwhile, stocks and seabird colonies could recover.
Thousands of anti-racism protesters gathered across England and formed human shields to protect asylum centres after police warned of unrest from more than 100 far right-led rallies.

Holding placards saying refugees welcome and reject racism, try therapy, people took to the streets in towns and cities nine days after the country was shaken by the fatal stabbing of three girls in Merseyside and the rioting that followed. But there was little sign of the unrest seen over the past week.

Police staged their biggest mobilisation to counter disorder since the 2011 riots on Wednesday, saying many of the planned gatherings had the potential to turn violent.

Lawyers offices shut down, high street shops were boarded up, GP practices closed early and MPs were told to consider working from home as 41 of the 43 local police force areas in England and Wales braced for potential disorder.

About 6,000 riot-trained officers were drafted in to tackle the expected rallies and an estimated 30 counter-protests after immigration law firms and refugee centres were listed as potential targets in a far-right chat group on the encrypted messaging app Telegram.

But instead, thousands of counter-protesters took to the streets of Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol, Brighton and London to protect their communities.

At 7pm in Liverpool, hundreds of people formed a human shield outside a targeted church that hosts an immigration advice centre while women held banners saying: Nans against Nazis.

Similar scenes were witnessed in Hackney and Walthamstow, both in east London, and Finchley in the north of the capital, as thousands of local people and anti-fascist activists came together and held placards saying we are one human race and unite against hate.

In Brighton, the handful of anti-immigration protesters who gathered outside a targeted law office were surrounded by police for their own protection after they were outnumbered by about 500 counter-protesters who chanted: Off our streets, Nazi scum. Later, the gathering took on a street carnival atmosphere with a samba band and loud singing.

But tensions flared in Aldershot in Hampshire after a group chanting stop the boats clashed with protesters holding stand up to racism placards who had been chanting refugees are welcome here. Dozens of police officers rushed onto the road to stop the groups from getting too close to each other. There were also reported skirmishes in Blackpool.

Northamptonshire police said three people had been arrested for public order offences in Northampton, and were in custody, and no members of the public or police had been injured.

The Metropolitan police said 15 people were arrested across the capital, including 10 in Croydon for assaulting emergency workers, possession of offensive weapons and other offences after about 50 people gathered to cause disruption and fuel disorder. Theyve dragged and thrown objects down the road and thrown bottles at officers. This is not linked to protest, this appears to be pure anti-social behaviour, the force added on X.

But by 9pm few far-right protesters were seen at the alleged targeted sites, although counter-protesters remained on the streets.

Despite the fears of violence and disorder scarring Britain on a scale not seen since the 2011 riots, in the end counter protestors outnumbered those supporting the far right led protests. In some places counter protestors found that no one else on the other side had turned up.

A police source with knowledge of the national picture said there were believed to have been small, far right led gatherings in Durham, Blackpool, Norwich, Northampton, Sheffield and Brighton.

The source said: It appears the swift justice being meted out to those involved in rioting over the last week has made people think twice. Forces were fully prepared for what may have come at them in terms of disorder. However, we have seen the evening pass with minimal to no violence.

The law abiding public have no time for the mindless criminality we have seen, and last night proves that  We must thank our communities for standing united against wanton thuggery.

Police feel their intelligence justified a national mobilisation, the biggest to combat feared disorder in over a decade, and the employment of 6000 riot officers, one third of the total in England and Wales.

Earlier Earlier Nick Lowles, a long standing expert on the British far right, and who now leads Hope Not Hate, told the Guardian that he was sceptical there would be widespread trouble on Wednesday evening.

The expectation was triggered by a list of targets found on social media. Lowles, speaking before this evening said: I think its a hoax, designed to spread fear and panic.

The list has been compiled by one man in Liverpool, who simply googled immigration law firms etc. No-one is organising the local protests and there is very, very little chatter about it on the forums and WhatsApp groups that have been key over the past week.

Police expect the next couple of days to be relatively quiet and more so called protests are expected this weekend.

Some 15 events across England and Wales were known of by police, mostly involving counter protesters. It was believed some far right led gatherings were taking place, though on a much smaller scale than expected.

Earlier, Sir Mark Rowley, the head of the Metropolitan police, said threats against immigration lawyers were at the centre of our planning tonight, adding: We will not let the immigration asylum system be intimidated.

The director of public prosecutions, Stephen Parkinson, added that publication of targets could be considered a terrorism offence as he revealed that one case of alleged terrorism was actively under consideration following the unrest across England and Northern Ireland in the last week.

Britains head of counter terrorism, assistant commissioner Matt Jukes, also confirmed for the first time that counter terrorism detectives were investigating some of the violence which erupted after the killing of the three young girls at a Taylor Swift-inspired dance class in Southport last Monday.

The Guardian understands that counter terrorism police are interested in an alleged attempt to set fire to a mosque near the scene of the atrocity, barely 36 hours after Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine were killed. They are also also looking into the attempt to set fire to a Rotherham hotel housing more than 200 asylum seekers on Sunday.

Parts of England went into effective shutdown on Wednesday with shops boarded up in the centre of Manchester, the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, Aldershot town centre and Westcliff-on-Sea in Essex ahead of the rumoured protests.Cases being heard at an immigration tribunal were also abandoned on Wednesday following concerns that far right agitators could target the building. Staff, lawyers and claimants at Hatton Cross Tribunal Hearing Centre, near Heathrow Airport, were ordered to leave at around lunchtime. Some hearings could not be completed.

Those inside the court building were told that there was far right activity in the area. A Whitehall source said the decision to abandon the court was precautionary. It is understood that other immigration tribunals have also been closed early because of fears of violence.

It came as Lindsay Hoyle, the Commons speaker, wrote to MPs suggesting they review their security in the wake of the threat of further riots and suggested some might want to consider working from home.

So far 428 arrests across 26 forces have been made and more than 140 people have been charged since the riots erupted last Tuesday, but that number is expected to increase, police said.

Disorder-related sentencing hearings are scheduled for 26 people over the next two days, the Ministry of Justice added on Wednesday evening. Offences covered by the hearings will include violent disorder, publishing written material to stir up racial hatred, and racially aggravated threatening behaviour.

Chief Constable BJ Harrington, the National Police Chiefs Council lead for public order, said that police and the Crown Prosecution Service would seek to minimise the number of suspects released on bail, as a deterrent to further rioting, and that even defendants with no previous convictions had already been remanded in custody after a first appearance in court.

Keir Starmer said the government was taking swift action against rioters after three men were jailed at Liverpool crown court on Wednesday for their parts in the disorder.

 Additional reporting by Rajeev Syal, Rowena Mason, Bibi van der Zee, Robyn Vinter and Ben Quinn
Novo Nordisk (NOVO-B.CO)

Novo Nordisk shares plunged after it missed estimates for its second-quarter operating profit as the company behind Ozempic sold fewer of its weight loss and diabetes drugs than expected and cut its profit forecast.

Sales increased 25% to DKK68bn (7.82bn/$9.94bn) in the period, below the 26.7% pace forecast by analysts.

Europe's largest company by market cap said that the 25% increase in net sales was driven by diabetes and obesity care as well as insulin sales. GLP-1 diabetes sales increased by 32% year-on-year, up from 30% in the previous quarter.

Read more: FTSE 100 LIVE: European stocks rise as markets climb back from panic

Obesity care sales rose by 34% compared to a year ago, slowing from a 41% increase in the first quarter. Sales of the diabetes treatment Ozempic and the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy rose by 30% and 53%, respectively.

Several celebrities such as Sharon Osbourne revealed that they had taken diabetes drug Ozempic to help them lose weight. (FREDERIC J. BROWN via Getty Images)

Earnings before interest and tax also came in below the forecasts at DKK25.93bn compared to DKK26.86bn for LSEG. Net profit for the quarter was DKK20.5bn, short of expectations of DKK21.3bn.

Additionally, Novo Nordisk trimmed its operating profit outlook for full-year 2024, saying growth was now anticipated to come in between 20% and 28%, rather than the previously expected 22% to 30% range.

CEO Lars Fruergaard Jrgensen said: "We are pleased with the sales growth in the first half of 2024, which has enabled us to raise the outlook for the full year." However, the firm has trimmed its operating profit growth forecast to between 20% and 28%, down from the 22% to 30% predicted in the first quarter.

Airbnb (ABNB)

Airbnb shares dropped over 15% in after-hours trading after the company reported second-quarter earnings that missed analyst expectations and amid signs of slowing demand from US customers.

The San Francisco-based company reported quarterly profit of $555m compared to $650m last year.

It expects third-quarter revenue to be between $3.67bn and $3.73bn, below analysts estimate of $3.84bn, according to London Stock Exchange Group data.

Revenue rose 11% from a year earlier to $2.75bn, slightly higher than analysts' forecasts.

The vacation-rental platform said it booked 125.1 million nights and experiences in the second quarter, a 9% increase from a year earlier.

However, it cautioned that it was seeing shorter booking lead times globally and some signs of slowing demand from US guests.

The company also said it had removed more than 200,000 low-quality listings since it launched its quality system more than a year ago.

Glencore will retain its coal and carbon steel business as its boss seeks to boost profits for shareholders.

Chief executive Gary Nagle said there had been a significant change in shareholder appetite for holding coal assets, even in the past year. He added that said that after considering both risk and opportunity scenarios the board had decided to retain the coal business.

Read more: When you have to start paying tax on your savings

The FTSE 100 (^FTSE) mining company had set out plans to spin off the segment after acquiring a majority stake in the steelmaking coal business of Canada-based Teck Resources (TECK-A.TO) for $6.9bn last year.

Glencore announced the decision on coal alongside its first-half financial results, with the miner reported that revenues increased by 9% in the first half of the year to $117.1bn but underlying profits dropped by a third to $6.3bn.

Nagel said this was down to lower average prices for many of our key commodities during the period.

Fortinet (FTNT)

Shares in Fortinet surged in pre-market trading after the cybersecurity company beat analysts' expectation for its fiscal second-quarter earnings report.

For the quarter ended June 30, Fortinet reported adjusted earnings per share of 57 cents, up from 38 cents in the same quarter of the previous year, on revenue of $1.43bn, up 11% year-over-year.

For the current quarter ending 30 September, Fortinet forecast revenue in a range of $1.445bn to $1.505bn.

The Sunnyvale, California-based firm said billings, a sales growth metric, was flat at $1.54bn, the same as a year earlier, compared with analyst estimates of $1.52bn.

"In the second quarter, we successfully balanced growth and profitability as our non-GAAP operating margin increased 820 basis points year-over-year to a company record of 35.1%, while billings and revenue were at the high end of their respective guidance ranges," said Ken Xie, Fortinet's founder.

Looking ahead, Fortinet raised its full-year 2024 guidance, now expecting revenue between $5.8bn and $5.9bn, up from its previous forecast and above analyst estimates of $5.79bn.

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
A police source said every force would have analysts monitoring social media. Photograph: Peter Powell/AFP/Getty Images

Police officers are watching TikTok in an attempt to catch far-right demonstrators livestreaming self-incriminating footage of their illegal behaviour.

TikToks Live function has become one of the defining outlets for coverage of this summers riots, with hundreds of thousands of viewers watching live streams of rioting over the last week in cities such as Stoke, Leeds, Hull and Nottingham.

The streams, which can run for hours, are sometimes broadcast by people involved in the disorder. Many of the TikTok streams show the faces of people apparently committing illegal acts such as looting shops or setting property on fire. They are often made by people whose usernames are easily linked to their real-world identities.

Related: Prison place waiting for far-right rioters, says justice minister

A police source said: Every force will have analysts monitoring social media, TikTok, for evidence-gathering purposes. Regional organised crime units are doing that as well, focusing on the higher end of offending, those who are inciting and the senior organisers.

Many videos have been recorded and broadcast by members of the public taking part in the disorder or standing in crowds of people rioting. One riot in Middlesbrough on Sunday was simultaneously livestreamed by at least six different TikTok accounts. The footage showed cars being set on fire, bricks thrown through the windows of homes and shops being looted.

One of the streams had 14,000 people watching as it showed people looting an Iceland supermarket in the Teesside town. Another stream from Middlesbrough had 4,000 people watching footage of individuals asking car drivers whether they were white before allowing them to drive down a street  while an off-camera voice shouted cant do shit, cant do nothing at a line of riot police standing nearby.

During previous riots  such as during disorder that spread across England in 2011  smartphone ownership was still relatively low and the mobile technology did not easily support livestreaming. As a result, many of the defining videos of that era were comparatively short clips recorded or obtained by professional news outlets or the police.

This time the police are benefiting from the publics growing tendency to livestream anything of note, aided by improved technology and mobile network capacity enabling people to broadcast their potentially criminal activity.

TikToks Live function is a natural home for this coverage due to its ease of use and the popularity of the app. Livestreams of rioting can gain hundreds of viewers a minute as the apps algorithm rapidly promotes attention-grabbing streams. This allows members of the public to rapidly build live audiences comparable with television news channels, even if the user doing the filming does not have an existing following on the platform.

One complication for police gathering evidence is that TikTok streams vanish from public view once a stream is ended by the user. But a copy remains accessible by the original streamer for up to 90 days, meaning they are accessible on TikToks servers.

The police source said other material being used as evidence included CCTV, officers bodycam footage, drone footage and video posted on other online platforms by those supporting the violence and those opposing fascism. They said retrospective facial recognition was also in use.
A woman takes a selfie in front of a bullet-riddled car in Kyiv Oblast - Gian Marco Benedetto/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

In the spring of 2022, the Ukrainian town of Bucha was subject to a brutal invasion by Russian forces. The initial battle for the town, perched on the eastern outskirts of Kyiv, saw 1,400 civilians killed. Moscows troops still stand accused of committing a litany of war crimes throughout the month-long occupation that followed.

But now its devastated streets have become a summer holiday hotspot  at least for a certain cache of tourists. Bucha has drawn in visitors as a so-called dark tourism site, one of many places around the world which attract people for the tragic or sinister events associated with them. Such landmarks make up a macabre global industry worth 25 billion by some estimates.

At least a dozen companies now offer tours of Bucha as well as Irpin, where at least 290 civilians were murdered by Russian forces, and other formerly occupied areas of Ukraine.

Curious visitors began arriving almost as soon as the areas were liberated from Russias control, it seems. I was scared in the beginning because I was uncertain what it would be like, and there were always sirens and alarms every day, says 29-year-old Stephan, from Germany, who visited Bucha in August 2022, just five months after Russian forces withdrew from the town. You would just see a few rockets intercepted by air defence, and you would never know what could happen.

A burnt-out building in Kyiv, one of hundreds of properties destroyed since the start of the war - Gian Marco Benedetto/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Stephan, who runs a YouTube channel called My Expat Diary, which features videos about his trips to Afghanistan and North Korea as well as more typical holiday destinations like Japan, Greece and Europe, made his way to Bucha by finding locals in Kyiv who were willing to drive with him to the town and show him around. What he found surprised and appalled him in equal measure.

Around 80 per cent of it looked unharmed, Stephan says. [But] I interviewed some people there about Russias atrocities, and it was very horrible. It was the most disturbing place Ive been to in Ukraine. One guy told me about how his neighbour had been killed. He doesnt consider himself a dark tourist but did have a personal interest in seeing Bucha for himself after reading reports about its occupation from Colombia, where he was staying when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. I was also hoping to generate hits on YouTube and to show others what it was like, he says.

Some Ukrainians have welcomed tourist visits as an opportunity to highlight the atrocities committed by Russian forces - Gian Marco Benedetto/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Far from shunning those like Stephan who want to witness Ukraines tragedies up close, many in the war-torn nation are keen to show the world the destruction that Russia has wrought, says Ukrainian lawyer Dmytro Nykyforov, 33.

Originally from Oleshky, near Kherson, Nykyforov fled to Kyiv as a refugee early in the war. He now operates guided visits to Bucha and Irpin, with a starting price of about 215 per person, and says he is happy to see others offering similar services online.

Im one of many Ukranians who has become used to the war, so Im not upset if we have tourists who want to see what is happening here, Nykyforov explains. The main idea is to share our experiences with them and help them to find out more about the war, he says.

War Tours, Nykyforovs company, pays a wage to its tour guides  who are refugees themselves  and regularly donates funds to the war effort. But some of his competitors appear to be raking in the cash: one week-long war tour package reportedly offered to tourists comes with a 3,000 price tag.

Most of Nykyforovs clients are from the US, Britain or small European countries, he says, and interest in tours has risen this summer. I think they deserve to see whats happening here because their governments support Ukraine, and they pay for that with their taxes, he says, adding people have a right to know how their money is spent.

It would seem that the Ukrainian government is also keen to attract visitors. In March, the country announced a campaign to attract tourists, saying it had the infrastructure and hotels to welcome foreign travellers, albeit when the war was over. Any money that people will spend in Ukraine will help the economy to recover, said tourism boss Mariana Oleskiv.

Now the brand of Ukraine [is] developed and well known around the world, but its not associated with tourism, she added, imploring sightseers to visit areas of the country that have remained unoccupied during the conflict and are very beautiful.

Ukraine recently announced a new tourism campaign to be begin when the war has ended - Gian Marco Benedetto/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

But while it may not have the reputation of neighbouring Hungary and Poland, which welcome millions of visitors a year to the likes of Warsaw, Krakow and Budapest, Ukraine has for more than a decade been a hotspot for dark tourism owing to its decision to reopen the Chernobyl exclusion zone in 2011.

More than 70,000 people visited the disaster-ravaged area in 2021, with numbers peaking at almost 125,000 in 2019, three years before the war broke out.

The site was abandoned after an enormous nuclear disaster in 1986 and only reopened to the public when radiation levels were deemed to be safe enough for human exposure.

There are things to see there if one follows the official route and doesnt stray away from the group, said Emergency Situations Ministry spokeswoman Yulia Yershova at the time  though it is a very sad story.

By 2015, a handful of companies had sprung up to bus dark tourists from Kyiv to Chernobyl, around 60 miles from the capital. Visitors were also provided with their own geiger counters in return for a small fee.

At least one such company has now added Bucha and Irpin to its listings: a site called Chernobyl Story offers a de-occupied cities tour of Hostomel, Irpin, Bucha and Romanivka for 140, along with private tours of Chernobyl for just over 600. Chernobyl Story gives a percentage of the purchase amount as a donation to orphanages, its website states.

Nykyforov insists that visitors to the sites arent driven by morbid curiosity, but rather a desire to see the devastation the war has wrought for themselves, unfiltered.

Chernobyl was reopened in 2011 for organised tours when the risk associated with high radiation had reduced to a low enough level - Gian Marco Benedetto/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

People are interested in seeing Bucha because its evidence of Russian aggression in their own eyes, rather than just through the media, he explains. But they also wanted to see destroyed Russian vehicles, and the different kinds of drones used by both sides, as well as the famous exhibitions in Kyiv.

Like Nykyforov, refugee Maria Romanenko, 31, doesnt think theres necessarily a problem with dark tourism itself. People have always been drawn to suffering parts of the world in that sense, says Romanenko, who now lives in Manchester and offers walking tours of the city for other Ukranians in Britain.

Her tours of Manchester cover the site of the 1996 IRA bombing on Commercial Street, as it always interests people to see how an area recovers. But she also points out that tour companies need to be audited and monitored to ensure that nobody is profiteering  a difficult task after two and a half years of fighting off Moscows forces, she says.

Still, shes clear that the benefits of welcoming in visitors  in the right places, with careful planning  outweigh any potential negatives. The economy has suffered a lot in the last two and a half years, Romanenko says. The need for investment is very high, with big chunks of the country left in ruins after bombing and the fire of artillery.

Besides the destruction, she adds, Ukraine also has much more to offer. There are wonderful restaurants which hardly get any visitors as well as shops, historic cultural attractions and areas of immense natural beauty. Later this year, Romanenko will take a group of Brits from Manchester and London to Lviv, a major civilian hub in the west of the country which has largely been spared the worst of Russias offensive.

Ultimately, however, no area is fully safe because you dont know when and where exactly a bomb can hit, Romanenko says. I have concerns about such tours [near Kyiv], she adds. Its a huge level of responsibility to say come, well show you around, when there are constant air raid sirens.
Two dogs look on as fire grows

The moment a dog caused a house fire after chewing on a battery power bank has been caught on video.

An indoor home camera captured the footage of the pet, which had been gnawing on the lithium-ion battery like a toy.

A power bank is essentially a portable battery that can be used to charge electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets,and laptops on the go.

However, their owners are often unaware of their potential fire risk.

In the video released by the Tulsa fire department in Oklahoma, two dogs and a cat can be seen in the living room.

The dog, lying on its front, starts playing with the battery before it starts to emit sparks. A thick cloud of smoke then fills the room, and the battery erupts into flames.

The family was safely evacuated, according to local media, and the animals escaped through a pet flap in the door.

Had there not been a dog door, [the pets] very well could have passed away, Andy Little, of the Tulsa fire department, told a local television station.

Battery fires a critical issue

Mr Little added that fires caused by lithium-ion batteries were a critical issue affecting fire departments across the United States.

Many individuals keep these batteries within their homes for convenience, unaware of the potential dangers they pose, he said.

I urge you to watch the video footage from this fire to understand the severity of the situation.

The batteries are known for storing a significant amount of energy in a compact space.

However, when this energy was released uncontrollably, it could produce heat and flammable and toxic gases, and could even cause explosions, Mr Little warned.

These incidents can be triggered by exposure to extreme heat, physical damage to the battery, overcharging or using incompatible charging equipment.
Egyptian airlines have been told to avoid flying over Iranian airspace in the small hours of Thursday morning - Europa Press News

Iran will retaliate at the right time over the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, the countrys acting foreign minister has said.

Ali Bagheri Khan said Tehran would strike in the appropriate shape amid reports that the regime is still weighing how hard it will respond to the assassination.

It comes as Egypt told its airlines to avoid flying over Iran for a three-hour period on Thursday morning amid fears of an attack on Israel.

Israel has been braced for an Iranian attack for more than a week since the assassination on July 31.

According to US media reports, White House officials believe they may have had some success in restraining Irans desire to punish Israel.

Iranian sources briefed immediately after the assassination that a large-scale direct attack could target Tel Aviv and military bases nearby.

But Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, has since mounted a diplomatic effort urging against any escalatory moves.

The killing of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has prompted fears of a revenge attack on Israel by Iran or Hezbollah - IRAN'S PRESIDENCY/VIA REUTERS

On Wednesday, Israels defence minister Yoav Gallant warned that the IDF would strike Lebanon hard if Hezbollah, an Iranian proxy group based in Lebanon, took part in a major joint strike with Tehran.

Egypts Notam (notice to air missions), a safety notice provided to pilots on Wednesday, said no planes should travel over Iran between 2am and 5am BST.

The notice could be an indication that Iran will launch its long-expected strike on Israel within that period.

Such a Notam from Egypt is very unusual. It is possible that this is an indicator of an Iranian response to Israel, and in turn a potentially large set of air space disruptions. At the same time, there may be another reason, said Opsgroup, a membership-based organisation that shares flight risk information.

An earlier Notam issued by Iran warned of gun-firing around the city of Arak at roughly the same time. Analysts said this could be tied to air defence practice, rather than necessarily an assault.

The Egyptian Notam came amid reports that White House officials believe they may have had some success in restraining Irans desire for revenge over the killing of Haniyeh.

A major attack on Israel, potentially involving rockets, missiles, or drones, had been expected as early as Sunday or Monday.

However, as of Wednesday, neither Iran nor Hezbollah, the militia group it backs in Lebanon, had launched any significant military response.

Sources have told Saudi news outlet Al Arabiya that the latest intelligence suggests that any attack may now be delayed until at least Thursday night or Friday.

US officials have also told CNN that Iran is still believed to be deliberating the scope of its response and that fears are now higher about Hezbollah  rather than Iran  taking the lead role.

Iran is expected to wait until after Wednesdays meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) in Jeddah before making a final decision, according to Al Arabiya.

Iran had requested the meeting in the aftermath of Haniyehs killing, which it blamed on Israel, to gain support from other governments.

The OIC said the meeting would be held in response to the ongoing atrocities committed by the Israeli occupation against the Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza Strip.

In addition to the assassination of Haniyeh, Fuad Shukr, Hezbollahs top military commander, was killed by an Israeli air strike in Beirut last week.

On Tuesday, Hassan Nasrallah, the Hezbollah chief, issued fresh threats to Israel, warning the country to prepare for any scenario.

The decision has been made, and we have the ability, but it wont happen fast but slowly, he said.

Mr Gallant replied that Nasrallah may drag Lebanon into paying extremely heavy prices. They cant even imagine what might happen. This may also deteriorate into a war. Its not theoretical.

According to the Washington Post, Tehran has accepted that Haniyeh was not killed by an Israeli missile but by a bomb smuggled into his apartment.

That could lead the regime to step down the nature of its response, US officials told the paper.

Washingtons decision to move troops, jets and warships closer to Israel may also be deterring Iran from pushing the region into an all-out war, the officials added.

Iran understands clearly that the United States is unwavering in its defence of our interests, our partners and our people, one senior Biden administration official said.

The regime may even leave the bulk of any offensive to Hezbollah, CNN reported, rather than launching a direct attack.

In April, Iran fired 360 missiles and drones at Israel in a telegraphed assault calculated to avoid major civilian casualties.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, said on Wednesday that he is fully aware that his countrys citizens are on alert.

I ask you one thing  to keep your patience and coolness, he said. We are prepared for both defence and offence, we are striking our enemies and are also determined to defend ourselves.

Privately, the White House was enraged when Israel immediately admitted to the US that it was behind the attack which killed Haniyeh, according to reports on Wednesday.

Biden administration officials viewed the assassination as a major setback in their careful, months-long negotiations to end the war in Gaza, The Washington Post reported, citing sources briefed on the matter.

US officials were also said to be angered that Israel failed to inform them before launching other operations to assassinate other senior commanders.

In public, Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, repeated his call for everyone in the region to take stock of the situation, understand the risk of miscalculation, and make decisions that will calm tensions, not exacerbate them.

After Hassan Nasrallah, the Hezbollah chief, delivered fresh threats to the Jewish state to prepare for any scenario on Tuesday, Yaov Gallant, Israels defence minister, issued a defiant response.

Mr Gallant warned that Nasrallah may drag Lebanon into paying extremely heavy prices. He added: They cant even imagine what might happen. This may also deteriorate into a war. Its not theoretical.

Mr Gallant also said he held an important call with his German counterpart over the threats posed by Iran and its proxies, thanking Boris Pistorius for standing with Israel.

The free world must come together against the biggest destabiliser and exporter of terrorism  Iran, Mr Gallant added.

Israel Katz, the foreign minister, has accused Iran of working to smuggle weapons into Jordan to destabilise the Jordanian regime and then flood the refugee camps in the West Bank with weapons and funding to establish another terror front against Israels major population centres.

Evacuation of British citizens

The UK, meanwhile, has prepared for evacuation of British citizens from Lebanon, with more than 1,000 troops on standby.

As airlines continued to cancel flights to Lebanon and Israel, British ministers called for all British nationals in Lebanon to leave.

Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly, said David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary.

While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is clear  leave now.

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Lucie Connolly, who was a childminder, resigned her registration with the regulator Ofsted on Tuesday

The wife of a Tory councillor has been arrested after calling for hotels housing migrants to be set on fire.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, last Monday, Lucie Connolly wrote: Mass deportation now, set fire to all the f---ing hotels full of the b------- for all I care, while youre at it take the treacherous government [and] politicians with them.

Mrs Connolly, who was a childminder at the time, resigned her registration with Ofsted, the regulator, on Tuesday.

It followed Childcare.co.uk, a listing site, confirming that it had suspended a childminder from advertising on the platform after receiving information about a highly inappropriate tweet.

Mrs Connolly was arrested for inciting racial hatred and taken into custody on Tuesday before being released on police bail pending further inquiries.

More than 400 people have been arrested across England and Northern Ireland so far in relation to far-Right riots across the country over recent days.

Quickly deleted it

Mrs Connolly, the wife of Tory councillor Raymond Connolly, is said to have written the post on the same day multiple children were stabbed in an attack that killed three girls in Southport.

The post continued: I feel physically sick knowing what these families will now have to endure. If that makes me racist, so be it.

She later apologised for comments she had made, saying she had acted on false and malicious information.

The Southport attacks prompted misinformation to spread online, including false claims that Axel Rudakubana, the suspect, was an asylum seeker.

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Connolly, who is the vice chairman of the adult social care committee at West Northamptonshire council, said his wife had made one stupid, spur of the moment tweet out of frustration and quickly deleted it.

Shes a good person and shes not racist, he said. Shes got Somalian and Bangladeshi kids she looks after, and she loves them like theyre her own.

Should not have expressed horror in way I did

In a post on X on Tuesday evening, Mrs Connolly said: 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 an invaluable lesson for me in realising how wrong and inaccurate things appearing on social media can be.

A Northamptonshire Police spokesman said: A 41-year-old woman from Northampton arrested yesterday [Tuesday, Aug 6] on suspicion of inciting racial hatred has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Chris Kemp founded space technology firm Astra - HBO

Elon Musk may hog all the headlines, but he isnt the only character involved in the commercial space race. Wild Wild Space (Sky Documentaries), a feature-length film, focuses on what its makers call the weird underbelly of this world and the men  theyre all men  who inhabit it.

The documentary is as entertaining as it is informative, because people who devote their careers to building rockets tend to be quite interesting. So here we have genius engineer Pete Beck, CEO of Rocket Lab, space hippie trying to save the world Will Marshall of Planet Labs, and slick Silicon Valley entrepreneur Chris Kemp of Astra. Beck is a self-taught scientist  he never went to university  who started out by putting a rocket engine on a bicycle, before testing out a rocket pack while wearing roller skates.

All share the same goal of wanting to put satellites into space. Marshall is a Brit who believes that being able to monitor the Earth will advance our ability to take care of it: collecting daily imagery can help with tracking crops, forest fires, the health of coral reefs and so on. Its a laudable aim but also seems pretty naive in a world of nefarious regimes.

The most compelling character here is Kemp, and the film begins and ends with him. A mini-Musk, he has a signature look (all black) and an unnerving intensity. He points out that there is little regulation of space: Thats the opportunity right now because, if you can get there first, you can have a seat at the table defining laws that will govern space.

Theres a juicy rivalry between Kemp and Beck. Kemp once visited Becks factory in his capacity as a consultant for another company, was given a VIP tour of how it all worked, and then set up his own firm with the intention of under-cutting the New Zealander on price.

Beck sums up Kemps mission statement as: How cheap and crappy can we make a rocket? Kemp says: Im somebody who wants to actually succeed from a business perspective, versus just making big toys. He talks of mass-producing low-cost rockets. Beck says hes not interested in doing that: Im not built to build s---.

This all sounds wonderfully petty but journalist Ashlee Vance, author of the book on which this documentary is based (When The Heavens Went on Sale), spells out the high stakes. A lot of people dont realise that were in the midst of a revolution in space. Its like the Wild West. Its a quest for power, a celestial land grab. And if it comes down to Musk vs the space hippie, I think we all know who will win.
The Gaza Solidarity Encampment, on the grass in front of the Pitt Rivers Museum

News from Oxford raises the hope that museums are at last seeing reason and recognising that their collections are not piles of loot. The Indian High Commission had demanded the return to India of a small 11th-century statue of the god Shiva, acquired by the Ashmolean Museum within the past few decades. But the University Council has thankfully demurred, since, tellingly, no Indian museum has claimed the artefact, despite campaigns to repatriate lost treasures.

When demands for the restitution of objects arrive from foreign governments, they inevitably aim at the grandest pieces  the Elgin Marbles or the Benin Bronzes, the Koh-i-noor Diamond  but first it is important they establish the principle, so demands for the restitution of smaller and less well-known pieces are partly designed to prepare the ground, even if no institution especially wants them. The rejection of Western artefacts is more common that many realise; not everyone in the places where museum treasures originated wants them back.

The massive Moai statue in the central courtyard of the British Museum was acquired from Easter Island in 1868, with the active help of the islanders. Its name, Hoa Hakananaia, means stolen, which sounds like a good reason for its return  except that this name predates the arrival of the British ship that carried it away. Moreover, the mayor of Easter Island recently insisted that it is much better for it to stay in London, where people from all over the world can learn about the remarkable history of the island, rather than returning it to one of the most remote inhabited spots on the planet.

Another example is when the British Institute in East Africa, based in Kenya, decided to try to do what they saw as the right thing and return to Tanzania human remains its archaeologists had excavated. But the Tanzanian authorities simply replied no thank you, as they had no facilities to look after them.

Not that any of this matters to those hell-bent on seeing all the objects in our museums as pillage. The 11th-century statue in Oxford was not imperial plunder  it was still in India when the country became independent  but down the road from the Ashmolean, Prof Dan Hicks, a curator at the Pitt Rivers Museum, admits no compromise: The Pitt Rivers Museum is one of the most violent spaces in Oxford, he approvingly quotes Oxfords Rhodes Must Fall group.

Appointing Hicks to his post was, it seems, rather like a shepherd appointing a wolf as his sheepdog. Hicks and his cronies perpetuate the myth that everything we have is loot, when the vast majority of items were given or bought and legally exported, a point brilliantly made in Justin M Jacobss new book, Plunder? How Museums Got Their Treasures. The stories they present are always selective, ignoring the diplomatic negotiations that rendered possible the acquisition of treasures like the Elgin Marbles, and the way that the Benin Bronzes were used in elaborate and bloody sacrifices conducted within closed palace precincts.

To insist that countries across the world want our (or their) stuff back and should get it is another example of Western virtue signalling, an arrogant expression of supposed moral superiority. By stripping from our museums objects that illustrate the history of humanity right across the globe, we show not appreciation but disdain for the achievements of other cultures.

David Abulafia is professor emeritus of Mediterranean history at the University of Cambridge
Great Britain earned their 1,000th medal across summer and winter Olympics on day 12 of Paris 2024.

The mens team pursuit team reached the milestone with silver, just before the womens team took bronze.

Matthew Hudson-Smith had to settle for silver in the mens 400m, while skateboarder Andy Macdonald made his Olympic debut at the age of 51.

Here, the PA news agency takes a look back at Wednesdays action.

A grand milestone for Team GB

Great Britains Ethan Hayter, Daniel Bingham, Charlie Tanfield and Ethan Vernon won Team GBs 1000th medal across the summer and winter Games (David Davies/PA)



Great Britain won their 1,000th medal across summer and winter Olympics, according to the statistician Bill Mallon.

Ethan Hayter, Dan Bigham, Charlie Tanfield, Ethan Vernon and Ollie Wood reached the milestone in the velodrome with their silver medal in the mens team pursuit at the Paris Olympics.

Their hopes of gold slipped away on the final lap when Hayter lost control of his bike and narrowly avoided a crash.

Shortly after, Elinor Barker, Josie Knight, Anna Morris and Jess Roberts clinched bronze in the womens team pursuit.

Hudson-Smith claims silver

Matthew Hudson-Smith settled for silver (Martin Rickett/PA)



Matthew Hudson-Smith took silver in the mens 400m final after being pipped to gold by American Quincy Hall.

The Briton was leading into the closing stages but Hall found another gear to snatch gold in a personal-best 43.40.

He beat Hudson-Smith by four hundredths of a second, while Zambias Muzala Samukonga took bronze.

Fountain of youth

Age is just a number! pic.twitter.com/stNSlQifDx  Team GB (@TeamGB) August 7, 2024

Team GB skateboarder Andy Macdonald began his professional career 14 years before Team GB colleagues Sky Brown and Lola Tambling were born and made his Olympic debut at the age of 51 on Wednesday.

Macdonald finished 18th of 22 in the mens park preliminaries on the Place de la Concorde, but believes just being at the Olympics is worthy of the gold medal itself.

People were like are you going for the gold? and I was saying if theyre giving away gold medals for whoever is having the most fun Ive definitely got it racked up, said Macdonald.

I didnt look at the scores, I wasnt here for the scores. Qualifying for Paris was the Hail Mary long shot from the get-go.

I was trying to represent that skateboarding is fun. No matter what age you are  this is the coolest, most fun, inclusive thing you can do.

Mills war of words

George Mills became involved in a heated exchange with Frances Hugo Hay (Martin Rickett/PA)



George Mills admitted he was probably not allowed to repeat what he said to Frances Hugo Hay after he was involved in a four-man fall during his 5,000 metres heat.

After crossing the finish line, Mills and Hay were seen arguing and making physical contact with the British athlete pointing furiously at the Frenchman.

Mills claimed he had been disadvantaged and officials agreed as they advanced the Briton to Saturdays final following a review.

Tweet of the day

Weve achieved a lot in the 128 years of the Olympic Games. 1,000 medals up, and were not done yet#TeamGB pic.twitter.com/vWdDz0gT4C  Team GB (@TeamGB) August 7, 2024

Picture of the day
Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) chief Jon Boutcher has told the Muslim community that police officers will be standing in harms way to ensure they are safe amid several race-related attacks in Belfast.

In a YouTube video message addressed to Muslims in Northern Ireland, the PSNI Chief Constable said that every PSNI officer is here to look after you, were here to protect you.

He said the community had been targeted by thugs and criminals in recent days who are from a right-wing ideology that makes absolutely no sense to me whatsoever.

In response to the disgraceful events of the past few days, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has recorded a video message to directly reach out to our local Muslim communities. https://t.co/xsrnD9X8jP  Office of the Chief Constable (@ChiefConPSNI) August 7, 2024

Mr Boutcher said a meeting was held between all leaders of mosques across Northern Ireland in Belfast on Tuesday night.

He said: Its clear to me you are living in fear and I want to assure you: we will deal with it.

Mr Boutcher said that the community team would be in touch and officers would visit mosques.

He added: I want to assure you we will be policing those events very much with a focus on the security and the safety of our Muslim communities.

We will be standing in harms way, which is what my officers have done so far on a number of evenings, to make sure youre safe.

Officers who have become injured, and Ive spoken to them, who are doing it because theyre determined to make sure this cannot continue.

Because we stand with you and we support you.

Police are investigating race-related hate crimes and disorder across Belfast on Tuesday, following on from other disorder and violence in the city in the past week.

Politicians from across the political spectrum have condemned the violence and hit out at racism and hatred.

The Stormont Assembly is due to reconvene on Thursday to discuss the issue.

Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said that the PSNI will significantly mobilise the organisation due to the disorder across Belfast since the weekend.

Unfortunately this will mean officers and staff working longer shifts and rest days, she said.

Increasing our resources and footprint across Northern Ireland in the coming days will enable us to manage planned events and deal with any sporadic incidents, including disorder.

We have also submitted a request to the National Police Co-ordination Centre for additional officers from across the United Kingdom to support the policing operation.

The Mutual Aid officers will provide vital resilience and support and will be given all of the necessary equipment and familiarisation training.

Any officers who may come to Northern Ireland would specifically assist with the ongoing public disorder and protests and not everyday policing.

We will continue to keep this under review.
Angela Rayner has accused Conservative leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick of stirring up some of the problems in recent days, after he suggested people who say Allahu Akbar should be immediately arrested.

Muslim politicians criticised the Tory former minister, one of six bidding to be the partys next leader, for using nasty divisive rhetoric in his comments about the Arabic phrase meaning God is great.

Mr Jenrick was speaking about claims that far-right riots over the last week have been dealt with more harshly than other recent unrest, pointing to the policing of pro-Palestinian demonstrations in the capital.

The Deputy Prime Minister condemned Tory MP Mr Jenricks remarks as she visited the Holiday Inn Express at Manvers, near Rotherham, which violent protesters stormed on Sunday.

Asked about his comments by broadcasters, Ms Rayner replied: People like Robert Jenrick have been stirring up some of the problems that weve seen in our communities.

Actually, what we want to see is communities coming together, and the vast majority of the public want to see that.

The Prime Minister is very clear that his number one priority is to keep people safe and to keep our streets safe, and thats why weve deployed the police to deal with the minority of people who think its acceptable to throw missiles at police, to attack police and attack hotels and attack businesses that are just trying to go about their daily lives.

Speaking on Wednesday morning, Mr Jenrick had told Sky News: I have been very critical of the police in the past, particularly around the attitude of some police forces to the protests that we saw since October 7.

I thought it was quite wrong that somebody could shout Allahu Akbar on the streets of London and not be immediately arrested, project genocidal chants on to Big Ben and not be immediately arrested.

That attitude is wrong and Ill always call out the police for it.

A spokesperson for Robert Jenrick said: Robert has called out all disorder in the strongest possible terms, whether from the far-right or retaliatory violence from sectarian mobs.

We are yet to see one Labour politician do the same. The country needs strong leadership, not squeamishness.

Conservative peer Baroness Sayeeda Warsi criticised his remarks, writing on X: Every day before we start parliamentary business in the Commons and Lords we say a prayer and praise God  we say our parliamentary version of Allah hu Akbars at the heart of democracy  a process Robert Jenrick is a part of.

This language from Jenrick is more of his usual nasty divisive rhetoric  he is such a tool.

Labour MP Naz Shah described the remarks as complete ignorance and textbook Islamophobia from Robert Jenrick.

This is complete ignorance and textbook Islamophobia from Robert Jenrick. It literally equates every Muslim in the world with extremism. Allah Hu Akbar means God is Great. Its a basic Islamic saying that every Muslim in the world says in prayer. It is significantly the https://t.co/XbTQATXeUu  Naz Shah (@NazShahBfd) August 7, 2024

Mr Jenrick also faced criticism from Muslim organisations, with the Muslim Council of Britain claiming his remark only goes to show that institutional Islamophobia is alive and well in the Conservative Party.

As a prospective leader, Mr Jenrick should be showing leadership, reassuring our communities when fear is palpable, they added.

The Muslim Association of Britain accused Mr Jenrick of pure unadulterated Islamophobia and said it was precisely what has been driving these Islamophobic far-right extremists.

Mr Jenrick later posted a video on X, formerly Twitter, appearing to show demonstrators in Bolton shouting the phrase, with the caption: Allahu Akbar is spoken peacefully and spiritually by millions of British Muslims in their daily lives.

But the aggressive chanting below is intimidatory and threatening. And its an offence under Section 4 and 5 of the Public Order Act.

Extremists routinely abuse common expressions for their own shameful ends.

Baroness Warsi urged him to apologise, as she replied: No Robert you do not get to go on national broadcasters and say one thing and try and pretend you said something else after!

Mel Stride, one of Mr Jenricks rivals for the Tory leadership, meanwhile, said the suggestion of wholesale criminalisation of the words Allahu Akbar is unwise and insensitive.

Any threat in the use of these words can only ever be implied in the very rarest of circumstances. Context clearly matters hugely here, he added.

Former Brexit chief negotiator Lord Frost came out in defence of Mr Jenrick. He wrote on X: Today Robert Jenrick has been trying to say something important that needs to be said.

Im a free speech absolutist. I believe in the widest possible bounds for free speech.

But context does matter. It is illegal to threaten or incite violence in this country.

As I wrote back in November, words which are entirely acceptable in one context can mean something entirely different, and should be treated accordingly, when chanted by an aggressive mob on the streets. Our policing needs to recognise that.
Reposting hateful messages about violent disorder on social media could mean you end up in court, Britains top prosecutor has warned.

Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson also said extradition would of course be considered for people posting online about inciting UK riots while out of the country if it is serious criminality.

Speaking to the PA news agency, he said: Anyone stirring up hateful or threatening activity on social media is potentially contributing to the violent disorder on our streets.

You may be committing a crime if you repost, repeat or amplify a message which is false, threatening, or stirs up racial/religious hatred.

Be mindful of what you are saying and sharing online, as you could face prosecution.

Mr Parkinson urged people to think before reposting or sharing messages online about the disorder, saying they are potentially committing criminal offences themselves.

He said: Weve now charged two offences of inciting racial hatred based on online communications.

I think people need to be really aware that if they retweet or share those communications, they are potentially committing criminal offences themselves, the offences are around publication of material.

If you retweet something, you are republishing it. We have dedicated police officers whose sole task is to scour the internet, scour social media. This is what theyre focusing on.

So, if you retweet or you reshare those communications, you will be picked up and you may expect a visit from the police, so please dont do it.

Regional organised crime units are looking closely at online incitement, particularly from higher end offenders, senior organisers and known influencers, police sources said.

Crime is crime, we are not here to police political views. Were here to keep people safe and arrest criminals, a source said, adding that whether criminality is online or on the streets, were going after those involved.

Action will be taken against higher influence keyboard warriors, who are inciting serious violence, the source said.

Cases are being built and the intelligence is being built around them, they added.

Police have seen activity across all social media platforms  Its across Facebook, its across X. X is particularly in the limelight, and that is where a lot of the content is, the source said.

Videos appearing on TikTok are being monitored closely, particularly for evidence.

Asked if there was any complication with charging people posting about inciting UK riots without being in the country, Mr Parkinson said: There may be a practical issue in terms of getting hold of them, but I think what people need to understand is that we work very closely with other countries.

We have around 30 liaison prosecutors based around the globe, the majority of whom are actually based in Europe.

The police also have officers stationed around the globe, including in Europe.

We work very closely with governments and criminal justice agencies, Im part of a network of European prosecutors, so theres lots of links with criminal justice agencies in other countries, which means that we can make mutual legal assistance requests to gather evidence.

Obviously, we can extradite people. It may take longer to get them back, but theres no issue around if we can get them back, then prosecuting them.
A son of an Irish soldier killed in 1983 has appealed to Sinn Fein MP John Finucane not to take part in an event commemorating a republican.

David Kellys father, Private Patrick Kelly, was killed along with Garda Gary Sheehan while taking part in the rescue in Co Leitrim of supermarket executive Don Tidey, who had been kidnapped by the Provisional IRA.

It happened at Drumcroman Woods, Derrada, on December 16 1983.

No-one has been prosecuted for his death.

Private Patrick Kelly was killed by the Provisional IRA during a rescue operation 40 years ago (South East Fermanagh Foundation/PA)

Mr Kelly was commenting on a planned event to honour republican John Joe McGirl, who he alleges was involved with the Provisional IRA.

Mr McGirl went on to become a Sinn Fein councillor in Leitrim, chairman of Leitrim County Council, a TD, and vice president of Sinn Fein.

Mr Finucane is due to take part in the event in Co Leitrim later this month as part of the Ballinamore Family Festival.

In an open letter, Mr Kelly has urged Mr Finucane not to take part in the event, which he describes as both morally reprehensible and a national outrage.

He writes: It is disappointing that you are scheduled to speak at the event in honour of McGirl.

No-one has been prosecuted for the murders of a member of the one true Oglaigh na hEireann, the Irish Defence Forces, and a member of An Garda Siochana, less than 10 kilometres out the road from Ballinamore.

All innocent victims have a right to truth and justice across the board. With the Derrada Wood murder victims in mind, John Finucane should not participate in this disgraceful event during a taxpayer-funded festival.

Kenny Donaldson, director of victims group SEFF, described the kidnap of Mr Tidey and the deaths of Mr Kelly and Mr Sheehan as heinous crimes carried out by Provisional IRA insurrectionists who stood opposed to both States on this island.

The holding of an annual commemorative walk for him (Mr McGirl) over the period of Ballinamores busiest time is a cynical ploy from the Provisional Republican Movement to have itself attached to community-based events which have support from large numbers of people, he said.

This is about the Provisionals mainstreaming individuals and linked events, that it then becomes part of a new norm.

Sinn Fein MP for North Belfast John Finucane is due to take part in the event in Co Leitrim later this month (Liam McBurney/PA)

John Finucane is a victim himself, having had his own father murdered before him. He should be able to empathise with the Kelly and Sheehan families.

We appeal with him to show some understanding and sensitivity for the plight of these families. Do the right thing, John Finucane, withdraw from this event which eulogises someone involved in terrorism over a long number of years.

Mr Finucane said: I have always been clear that truth and justice is something which every person impacted by our conflict deserves, and is entitled to, irrespective of whether those who inflicted the harm were loyalists, the British state or republicans.

I have been consistent in this view whether it be personally as a campaigner, professionally as a lawyer, or politically as the MP for north Belfast.

For just as truth and justice applies equally to everyone, so too does the right to remember, and the right to commemorate, and I will be attending what will be a dignified commemoration on August 17.
There have been more than 8,000 complaints to media regulator Ofcom after Ed Balls interviewed his wife, the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, live on TV.

The former Labour MP and ex-shadow chancellor, 57, questioned Ms Cooper on ITVs Good Morning Britain about the violent protests in some parts of the UK in the wake of the killing of three young girls in Southport.

On Wednesday Ofcom said the Monday programme attracted 8,201 complaints about Balls questioning Ms Cooper, and an exchange with Coventry South MP Zarah Sultana.

The submissions refer to the period from July 30 to August 5.

Kate Garraway (Ian West/PA)

Balls asked Ms Cooper whether officers had policed protests by far-right activists and pro-Palestine demonstrators differently.

The former Strictly Come Dancing contestant asked if there had been a two-tier approach to policing, and if police have been softer and more cautious when policing the Gaza demonstrations, compared with a tougher approach over the last week.

Ms Cooper, who has been married to Balls for more than 25 years and has three children with him, said that police have to operate without fear or favour, whatever the kinds of crimes it is that they face.

Before the interview, which was led mostly by GMB host Kate Garraway, he said he had genuine questions for Ms Cooper, as he has rarely seen her at all in the last week because of the disorder on the streets.

Earlier, Labour MP Ms Sultana had an argumentative interview with Garraway and Balls about the rioters, when they interrupted her as she called for political leaders to condemn the protests as Islamophobic and racist.

Balls said Ms Cooper, Tory leader Rishi Sunak and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had all criticised the riots, while Garraway asked about the terms Ms Sultana wanted used.

Balls and Garraway both told Ms Sultana that she had to answer questions.

She replied: Im going to wait for Kate to finish her question if thats all right, and Balls interjected, saying: If you want to answer the questions, its your call.

MP Zarah Sultana (Lucy North/PA)

Balls continued to interrupt her as she replied to Garraways question about why she wanted politicians to call out Islamophobia.

Ms Sultana then asked Balls if she can finish, and criticised an article that he wrote about immigration.

Balls, who was a Labour MP from 2005 to 2015, defended a 2010 Guardian opinion column titled We were wrong to allow so many eastern Europeans into Britain.

Well, youve moved from attacking Andrew to attacking me, Balls added, referring to Ms Sultanas comments about Daily Mail columnist Andrew Pierce.

After the interview, Ms Sultana posted on X, formerly twitter, a clip of her on GMB, and wrote: The media and political class is complicit in the far right, racist and Islamophobic violence were seeing across our country.

This morning, I experienced the visceral denial of this reality.

Later on the programme, Garraway began her questioning of Ms Cooper by saying: Can I ask, because weve 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.

Theyve been using racist language. Theyve been using falsehoods about what happened in Southport.

This is happening on the social media platforms. What can be done, what should be done now by the social media companies and the police and the Government to stop this happening, because its been happening for a week?

ITV declined to comment.
A day after Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes announced a cooperation agreement with a defendant in the fake electors case, another defendant became the first to accept a plea deal.

Arizona Republican Loraine Pellegrino on Tuesday pled guilty to the reduced charge of "presentment of false instrument for filing," a misdemeanor, and was placed on three years of unsupervised probation in Maricopa County.

She was among the 11 Arizona Republicans who claimed on false documents sent to Congress that Donald Trump won the state in 2020, along with seven top aides to the former president. Each was charged with nine felony counts, including conspiracy and fraud.

Pellegrino was secretary for the Arizona Trump electors, and said in 2022 the group offered a contingency plan.

By pleading guilty to the reduced charge Tuesday, Pellegrino's lawyer said it reflected her "desire to move forward and put this matter behind her."

"She has taken full responsibility for her actions, demonstrating her commitment to upholding the law and contributing positively to the community," said Joshua Kolsrud in a news release. He noted that his client had a commitment to ethical conduct.

The sentence Pellegrino received, Kolsrud said, acknowledged her remorse and "willingness to make amends."

Even though Pellegrino pled guilty to the reduced charge, Kolsrud said Mayes "recognized" his client was a "woman of integrity who was not as culpable" as some of the other defendants in the case.

"This acknowledgment was a key factor in reaching a fair and just resolution," he said.

A spokesperson for Mayes confirmed the guilty plea had taken place but declined further comment.

The plea deal marked a second turn in the criminal case this week.

The first came Monday when Mayes announced attorney Jenna Ellis agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in exchange for her charges to be dropped. But if Ellis does not meet the terms of the agreement, Mayes' office can pursue charges.

The remaining 16 defendants have pleaded not guilty.

Several defendants have filed motions to dismiss the case, which are expected to be considered in a hearing later this month that will also likely solidify a schedule for the case to move forward.

Republic reporter Stacey Barchenger contributed.

Elena Santa Cruz is a criminal justice reporter for The Republic. Reach her at elena.santacruz@gannett.com. Follow her on X @ecsantacruz3.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Fake electors case: Loraine Pellegrino accepts plea, gets probation
ATLANTA (AP)  Four years after the 2020 election, a newly GOP-aligned election board in Georgia is pushing to reinvestigate the state's largest county for its handling of the vote.

Georgia's State Election Board voted 3-2 Wednesday to ask state Attorney General Chris Carr to investigate the Fulton County government, seeking to reopen an inquiry closed in May.

The action shows the degree to which Republican outrage over the 2020 election continues to animate party activists and comes on the heels of a Saturday rally in Atlanta where former President Donald Trump attempted to relitigate unproven claims that he won Georgia, which President Joe Biden won that year by a narrow margin. He praised the State Election Board at the same rally.

Spokesperson Kara Murray said Carr, a Republican who has been opposed by Trump, hadn't yet received the request.

We take election integrity very seriously, and we will apply the constitution, the law and the facts as we have always done, Murray said.

However, Murray said the attorney general's office doesn't investigate or seek criminal charges in cases referred by the board.

The resolution says that if Carr doesn't act, the board will try to hire an outside lawyer to conduct an inquiry.

It's unclear what could happen if an inquiry occurs. In a hotly disputed 2021 law, the board was given the power to take over election administration in individual counties. That provision was always aimed at heavily Democratic Fulton County in the aftermath of an election that an independent monitor said was characterized by sloppy practices and poor management but with no evidence of intentional wrongdoing.

A trio of Republican partisans aligned with Trump has cemented control of the five-member regulatory board, which has no direct role in determining election results but writes rules to ensure elections run smoothly and hears complaints about violations.

Some activists who have long wanted action against Fulton County argue that officials should face criminal charges. Those activists have also long pushed for access to the paper ballots from the 2020 election, which could enable a citizen review similar to one that roiled Arizona in 2021.

As part of the May resolution of the earlier inquiry, the board found that Fulton County improperly double-counted some votes. But those who brought the complaint say other issues are unresolved, such as missing electronic ballot scans.

It seems to me that somebody is moving heaven and earth to not allow anyone to get to the paper ballots, said Dr. Janice Johnston, a retired obstetrician appointed to the board by the state Republican Party. I dont know why. Im just interested in the data and interested in the numbers.

Wednesday's decision is likely to be met with litigation. Fulton County's election board sent a letter to the state board flatly saying the May resolution is final and the board is legally prohibited from reopening the charges.

We will not engage in any further discussions, investigations or other action related to this case, Fulton County board Chair Sherri Allen said in a statement. To do so would be a waste of taxpayer dollars and time that is best spent preparing for the upcoming general election.

The state board's nonpartisan chair, John Fervier, tried to block the action, citing a letter from Carr's office that he said also warned the move would be illegal. The Associated Press wasnt immediately able to obtain a copy of the letter.

We are putting this board in legal jeopardy by approving that motion, Fervier said.

Johnston, who led a successful effort to overturn Fervier's ruling blocking consideration of the move, said a lawyer for the state GOP had advised her that the board could legally go ahead. Janelle King, whose appointment tipped the balance of power on the board, said she is not afraid of a potential lawsuit.

We've got to make sure we're not scared to make moves because of the fear of that, because in some cases it's just the right thing to do, said King, a conservative political commentator

It's at least the second recent time that state Republican Party officials or employees directly advised the board on a course of action. Party Chairman Josh McKoon recently sent two proposed rules and talking points to another GOP-aligned member of the board, former state Sen. Rick Jeffares.

Part of the deal made in May was that Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, the State Election Board and Fulton County would agree on a monitoring team. On Wednesday, though, the board refused to vote on the team proposed by Raffensperger and Fulton County. That's in part because it included the former chief lawyer for Raffensperger's office and the man who monitored Fulton's 2020 election.

Raffensperger's office declined to comment on the board's actions. He was removed as a voting member of the board in 2021 and from his nonvoting capacity by lawmakers this year, largely driven by GOP anger at his defense of Biden's 2020 victory in Georgia.

At the Saturday rally, Trump said the three GOP-aligned board members are all pit bulls fighting for honesty, transparency and victory while criticizing Fervier and the Democrat on the panel. He in particular singled out Johnston, who was in the second row and stood to acknowledge Trumps praise.

My courage was contagious? Trump said. Well, your courage is contagious, too.
Women are taking charge as the future of wine in this ancient world region

Courtesy of Heya Wines

Michelle Chami and Claudine Lteif say they have always noticed a crucial detail during the grape harvest in Lebanon.

80% of the workers in the field are women, says Lteif. [When] we found out these women were getting paid less than men, we had to do something about it.

Neighbors in northern Lebanons Bekaa Valley, Chami and Lteif spent years helping Chamis husband, Eddie Chami of Mersel Wine, during harvest and other winemaking efforts. The duo credit him for pushing them to pursue their own wine label, which has one clear goal: to pay female workers the same as their male counterparts.

Harvest starts around 4:30 a.m., [so] these women wake up extra early, says Chami. They do the washing, make breakfast for the kids, they work in the field in the sunits very tiresome. Then they come home and theres more work, theres no rest. Men can rest. Women work three times as hard and deserve recognition.

Making Heya Wines in Lebanon

Chama and Lteif started experimenting with small-batch wine in 2019. By 2022, they produced their first vintage under Heya Wines (heya means she in Arabic).

Every step of the production  from harvest to pruning, pressing, packaging, and delivery  is done by women from the local area. The labels on each bottle feature the 1520 women who work harvest and, most importantly, are paid an equal wage.

Heya also shares winemaking facilities with Laila Maghathe, the Cincinnati-born half-Palestinian winemaker behind Love Letter, a label established in 2021.

Maghathes Love Letter is, in her words, an ode to making wine in a place that feels like home. Her portfolio includes a varietal Merlot, as well as wines made with indigenous varieties like Merwah, a white grape related to Semillon that yields wines with citrus, floral, and nutty notes. Another native variety, Marini (also called Sabbaghieh) presents dark-skinned teinturier grapes, meaning both the fruits skin and flesh are red, and yields highly pigmented wines with notes of red fruits and spices. Maghathe says that although the region is ideal for winemaking, the annual travel between growing seasons between Cincinnati to Lebanon is no cake walk, especially given political tumult.

Of course, [war] affects you mentally and subconsciously, says Maghathe. Knowing there is this tension before I fly. Will I be able to go? Will the borders be shut off? Will there be a war starting tomorrow? But then, you just have to get up and do it. You cant let the fear stop you.

Wine, despite the odds

During a tumultuous period from 201920 that saw a countrywide financial collapse, global pandemic, and a port explosion in the capital city of Beirut, Lebanon has seen its fair share of hardship in recent years. Now, as the neighboring Israeli-Palestinian war seeps into the southern border of Lebanon, the region remains far from healed.

Making wine in those circumstances means that the people here will persevere through anything, says Maghathe. You have to continue your everyday life.

But for these women, everyday life means making wine. For Heya, that includes still and sparkling wines produced from local Merwah grapes, whole cluster Grenache and Syrah that employed carbonic maceration, and a crushable coferment of Merwah grapes and apples.

The apples and grapes grow intertwined, says Chami. A lot of farmers couldnt pay to refrigerate the apples. We decided [it was] better for us not to waste them because refrigeration is expensive. So, we took them and put them with Merwah.

After a seven-day maceration on the skins of Merwah, the juice is pressed into stainless steel tanks. Apples are added whole and begin a carbonic maceration for about eight weeks. The juice is then drained before the apples are pressed, and both grape and apple juices are combined and then fermented until the wine is dry. A sparkling version of the wine is made by adding apple juice to the finished dry wine and allowing a second fermentation in the bottle with no added yeast or disgorging.

In nature, there is a marriage between apples and Merwah, says Lteif. We didnt want to separate them.

Feminist progress in an ancient world

Lebanese women gained the right to vote and participate in elections in 1952. (By comparison, women in the U.S. won the same privileges in 1920.)

Today, Lebanon is seeing one of its strongest feminist movements, with more women taking to the workforce. As of 2023, the labor force includes 27.5% female labor participants to 65.5% male labor participants, according to the World Bank Group gender data. In the world of wine, however, women winemakers account for far less.

Pianist and musicologist Roula Abou-Khater of Coteaux du Liban is regarded by many as the first commercial woman winemaker in Lebanon, only as of 2009 when she began to manage the estate after her husband passed away. Tamara Gebara, Khaters daughter-in-law, is now Coteaux du Libans winemaker, with a focus on French varieties including Cinsault, Viognier, Syrah, and some local grapes like Obaideh (also spelled Obeidi.)

Hiba Salloum founded Umami Wines in 2016. The women-led winery makes Tempranillo rose, an Obaideh white, and a Cabernet Franc and Merlot red blend. In 2019, just a decade after the first woman-led winery was established, Heya Wines was formed. Though these producers make small-batch wines, Heya Wines, Love Letter, and Coteaux du Liban are all available in the U.S. at select shops and restaurants.

In the Middle East, its a male-dominated workforce. We wanted to support women, especially in winemaking, says Chami. We wanted to show everyone we can do this, too."



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Read the original article on Food & Wine.
No, it's not an omen or a weird biblical sign of the apocalypse. Thousands of tarantulas are venturing out to find mates just in time for the start of the Halloween season.

"What is happening is that the males are out looking for females," Lauren Davidson, an entomologist and the director of Houston Museum of Natural Science's Cockrell Butterfly Center, told USA TODAY.

The brown tarantula's mating season takes place from late August through October, according to USA TODAY's previous reporting.

While tarantulas in Texas just finished their mating season, tarantulas in Colorado, Kansas and New Mexico will be venturing out of their homes in search of a mate.

"The males are emerging from those burrows in search of the females' burrows," said Davidson. "So the females are putting out like a pheromone, saying like, 'hey, I'm over here!'"

Close-up female of Spider Tarantula (Lasiodora parahybana) in threatening position. Largest spider in terms of leg-span is the giant huntsman spider. Females can live up to 25 years.

What should you do if you come across a tarantula?

Nothing. If you see one outside, it's best just to leave it alone.

"They're just out looking for love," said Davidson. "Let them go find a girlfriend."

They can't really creep into houses because they're too big and can't go through the cracks and crevices regular house spiders can fit through.

But, if they do manage to find their way into your home, do not chase them down.

They have little hairs on their abdomen that they rub off when they're trying to escape a big predator and it acts sort of like fiberglass. The hairs stay in the air and stick to whatever may come in contact with them. It can make whatever unfortunate creature they stick to "really itchy," said Davidson.

Instead of chasing a tarantula with a broom or fly swatter, she recommended sneaking up on it and, without grabbing it, coaxing it into a bucket to take outside and releasing it back into the wild.

Venomous, but not deadly

American tarantulas are venomous, but if one bites you it won't kill you.

Despite what Nintendo's Animal Crossing might have you believe, a tarantula's bite will not knock you unconscious. Movies and video games have given the giant eight-legged creatures a bad reputation.

The truth is, unless you're a rat, frog, or other small creature, you should be fine.

"Bites are rare," said Davidson. "If it did bite you, it would hurt, but you could just put some ice on it. It doesn't require medical attention in most cases."

Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or follow her on X, formerly Twitter, Instagram and TikTok: @juliamariegz

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tarantula mating season: Thousands to emerge in 3 states
Joe Biden at the White House in Washington, on Thursday. Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters

Joe Biden has said he is not confident there will be a peaceful transfer of power after the November presidential election.

If Trump wins, no, Im not confident at all. I mean, if Trump loses, Im not confident at all, the president said in an interview with CBS News that is due to air in full this Sunday.

It is the US presidents first media interview since he dropped out of his re-election campaign last month and endorsed his vice-president, Kamala Harris, to replace him at the top of the Democratic ticket. Harris is now the presumptive party nominee for president, with Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, as her running mate. They will face Donald Trump, the Republicans nominee, and his running mate, JD Vance, the Ohio Senator, in November.

Biden added, of Trump: He means what he says, we dont take him seriously. He means it, all this stuff about if we lose it will be a bloodbath  [and] stolen election, you cant love your country only when you win.

The TV network posted the excerpt from the interview on Twitter/X.

In his first TV interview since exiting the 2024 race, President Biden tells CBS News' @costareports he's "not confident at all" that a peaceful transfer of power will happen in January 2025 if former President Donald Trump loses.



"He means what he says. We don't take him pic.twitter.com/uE4dj5Vzrs  CBS Sunday Morning  (@CBSSunday) August 7, 2024

Donald Trump, who is the Republican nominee for president, said in March: Now, if I dont get elected, its gonna be a bloodbath. Thats going to be the least of it. Its going to be a bloodbath for the country. His comments were later said to be in reference to economics of the US.

In the CBS interview, Biden further said of Trump and the Republicans: Look what theyre trying to do now, in the local election districts where people count the votes. It was unclear from the brief clip whether Biden meant that Republicans send operatives to challenge the counting of votes or that they intimidate election workers, or both.

At a rally in Ohio in March, Trump also said: I dont think youre going to have another election in this country, if we dont win this election  certainly not an election thats meaningful. At the time his comments prompted a statement from Bidens re-election campaign that said this is who Donald Trump is.

Before withdrawing, Biden focused heavily in his re-election campaign on Trump as a threat to US democracy. Harris and Walz have taken up several other themes but have also criticized Trump and Vance for, among other things, being close to Project 2025, the hard-right framework drawn up by a team at the Heritage Foundation as a playbook for a second Trump presidency.

The blueprint recommends dismantling features of the government it believes conflict with conservative ideology, while installing extreme, conservative policies.

Harris said: Can you believe they put that thing in writing?

Reuters contributed reporting

 This article was amended on 8 August 2024 to clarify that Trumps bloodbath comment was later said to be in reference to US economics.
Editor's Note: This page is a summary of news on Tropical Storm Debby for Wednesday, Aug. 7. For the latest news, view our story for Thursday, Aug. 8.

Tropical Storm Debby made landfall in South Carolina early Thursday, prompting fears of flash flooding in areas already soaked by the slow-moving weather system.

According to a 2 a.m. ET update from the National Hurricane Center, Debby made landfall near Bulls Bay, South Carolina. The storm, located 20 miles southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and 65 miles south of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was moving northwest at 5 mph, with maximum sustained winds up to 50 mph.

Debby has drenched parts of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina in over a foot of rain and could drop up to 50 trillion gallons of rainwater along its path, according to one estimate. The flash floods Debby caused forced evacuations, overwhelmed drainage systems and breached multiple dams in Georgia.

At least six deaths have been tied to the storm. The sixth one was confirmed Tuesday after police in Gulfport, Florida, found the body of a boater who had been missing, the Tampa Bay Times reported.

After pushing off the coast of Georgia on Tuesday, Debby is projected to pick up wind speed before moving ashore along the central coast of South Carolina on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service. Debby could dump an additional 3 to 9 inches of rainfall  and local amounts could range as high as 25 inches in South Carolina and 15 inches in southeast North Carolina through Friday.

"People should be prepared to seek higher ground and to know of an evacuation route and have a plan in place," AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said.

Some Mid-Atlantic cities began to feel Debby's effects Tuesday as the system's tropical moisture interacted with a cold front, spawning early storms. New York City, Philadelphia and Newark, New Jersey, were soaked in several inches of rain, and there were reports of flooding in low-lying areas.

Late Wednesday, swaths of eastern North Carolina were under flash flood warnings after receiving 4 to 6 inches of rain with more on the way. Brunswick County Schools, which serves about 13,000 students in the southernmost part of North Carolina, announced it would be closed on Thursday due to flooded roads and anticipated heavy rain overnight, though one high school would operate remotely.

Residents in northeastern South Carolina were also under flash flood warnings late Wednesday as the National Weather Service warned up to six more inches of rain could damage roadways after some areas had already seen 2 to 4 inches.

Debby is predicted to combine with a frontal boundary over the Mid-Atlantic on Friday and then gain speed and push through the Northeast, dumping more rain across the region and causing "considerable flash and urban flooding as well as river flooding," according to the weather service.

Weather alerts via text: Sign-up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location.

Developments:

New York City sent out drones to alert residents of low-lying areas about the possibility of flooding Tuesday, but the announcements made in Spanish  spoken at home by about one-quarter of New Yorkers  were barely understandable, The Associated Press reported. City officials apologized.

The National Weather Service office in Charleston, South Carolina, has confirmed four tornado touchdowns: In Moncks Corner, Edisto Beach, Kiawah Island and Lady's Island.

Flash and river flooding is expected through Aug. 15 from South Carolina up to south-central Virginia, according to the National Water Center, which said flooding is also forecast or already happening in the Suwannee and Tampa River basins in Florida up through the Georgia coastal plain.

 The federal Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency in Georgia and South Carolina on Wednesday, a day after issuing a similar declaration in Florida.

 The Canoochee River, about 50 miles west of Savannah, Georgia, broke a 99-year-old record Wednesday when it reached 18 feet, slightly above the previous mark of 17.8 set in 1925, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

'Cats swimming through' flooded Charleston street

Barbara Zeller, 54, is lucky to be an Olympics enthusiast. The flooding triggered by Debby trapped her in her Charleston home for days, so she spent large parts of them watching the Paris Games.

"You're basically in prison," said Zeller, who moved to the area about five years ago after living in New York City for two decades.

By Wednesday, the rain was still coming down in Zeller's neighborhood near the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, which connects Charleston and the town of Mount Pleasant. Still, it was far less than the consistent downpour from Monday and Tuesday, she said.

On her flooded street, "the water is thigh-high, almost to my waist," Zeller said. "I've seen cats swimming through, because there's no other way around it."

Zeller moved her vehicle to a parking garage at higher elevation that the city opened ahead of the storm. "Everywhere below me, including my own parking garage, floods very, very badly," she said.

Tropical wave unlikely to develop

Another tropical system that had concerned forecasters earlier in the week appears to be less of a threat to develop into a named storm, the National Hurricane Center said Wednesday. The center is now giving the system only a 10% chance of development within the next seven days.

"Disorganized showers and thunderstorms located over the southwestern Caribbean Sea are associated with a tropical wave," the center said. Although a portion of the wave could reach the southwestern Gulf of Mexico over the weekend, "any development of this system should be slow to occur," the center said.

Even if it doesn't develop, the system will still dump heavy rain across portions of Central America and Mexico over the next few days, Weather.com reported. If its sustained winds reach 39 mph, which is not expected, the wave would become a named tropical storm. The next name on the storm list is Ernesto.

Northeast storms related to Tropical Storm Debby

The heavy rain and severe thunderstorms that walloped the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic on Tuesday were indirectly related to Tropical Storm Debby, meteorologist Rick Otto of the Weather Prediction Center told USA TODAY. And more is on the way, even before Debby moves in later in the week.

Otto said that while the main impacts from Debby have been in the Southeast, a plume of moisture from the tropical storm interacted with other weather systems such as a cold front to produce torrential rain and flooding in cities Tuesday such as New York, Philadelphia and Newark, wreaking travel havoc.

The Storm Prediction Center said there were dozens of reports of severe weather, mainly from strong wind gusts, from Ohio through Pennsylvania and New Jersey on Tuesday. More than 330,000 homes and businesses in northeast Ohio were out of power early Wednesday afternoon, the majority in Cuyahoga County, home to Cleveland.

According to AccuWeather, there will be additional episodes of flooding downpours and severe thunderstorms with strong wind gusts into Wednesday night from portions of the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic to New England.

North Carolina counties, towns issue voluntary evacuations

Local officials in North Carolina have issued voluntary evacuation orders for low-lying and coastal areas as the effects of Tropical Storm Debby began to intensify.

Multiple counties and beach communities, including North Carolina's Brunswick County and Ocean Isle Beach, near the South Carolina border, have urged residents to evacuate, citing heavy rains and dangerous storm surge.

Dont take this storm for granted simply because it is labeled a tropical storm  there will be severe weather impacts throughout the week," Randy Thompson, chairman of the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners, said in a news release.

"Due to the high probability of life-threatening flood waters on the coast and inland over the next few days, visitors should carefully consider evacuating," said a statement posted Wednesday by officials in Ocean Isle Beach.

From Folly Beach, South Carolina, to the coasts of North Carolina's Ocracoke Inlet, storm surge from Debby could reach 1-3 feet if it coincides with peak high tide, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Debby's latest rainfall totals

Since Monday, Debby has inundated the Southeast with torrential rain, causing widespread flooding from Florida to North Carolina. Below are some of the highest rainfall totals recorded so far, according to the National Weather Service.

Florida:

Ruskin: 21.7 inches

Palm Harbor: 20.34 inches

Parrish: 18.86 inches

Sarasota: 17.78 inches

Pinellas Park: 14.04 inches

South Carolina:

Green Pond: 16.55 inches

Edisto Beach: 13.90 inches

Beaufort: 12.74 inches

Bennetts Point: 12.50 inches

Hardeeville: 12.15 inches

Georgia:

Rincon: 13.29 inches

Rocky Ford: 12.89 inches

Belville: 12.00 inches

Springfield: 11.43 inches

Savannah: 10.40 inches

North Carolina:

Calabash: 5.17 inches

Sunset Harbor: 5.09 inches

Shallotte: 4.87 inches

Holden Beach: 4.32 inches

Bolivia: 4.06 inches

Debby is worst storm in Georgia resident's recent memory

When Glenn De Vecchis tried to leave his house in east-central Georgia on Wednesday morning after Tropical Storm Debby left the area, the state of the roads left him "really scared." The storm scattered some branches across the roads, and deep puddles in several places blocked his vision.

"When I hit those big, giant puddles, I couldn't see anything," Vecchis, 69, told USA TODAY. "I was lucky I stayed on the road because I was wobbling all over the place."

The storm lashed De Vecchis' home in Metter, about 65 miles west of Savannah, with rain for three days  "morning, noon and night, without stopping," he said. The retired business owner said his house was set up high enough to avoid the floodwaters and sturdy enough to withstand the winds.

The last serious storm to pass through was 15 years ago, he said, but "this is the worst I have seen."

Streets flood, dams breached in Georgia

The record-breaking rainfall from Debby caused the breach of several dams in northern Georgia and led to evacuations downstream from a vulnerable dam in South Carolina.

The National Weather Service reported Thursday afternoon that officials in Bulloch County, Georgia, are warning about the imminent failure of the Cypress Lake Dam, about 50 miles northwest of Savannah. If the dam breaks, the weather service said flooding will occur in portions of neighborhoods immediately downstream and then flow onto U.S. Highway 301. Residents in low-lying areas below the dam were advised to move to higher ground immediately.

Hours after dams at Simmons Pond burst, the dam at Oglesby Pond was breached, according to Bulloch County Public Safety, which warned that rushing water would cross a nearby highway and wash into neighboring ponds and lakes.

Meanwhile, in Colleton County, South Carolina, local officials warned Tuesday afternoon that the McGrady Dam had "the potential to fail" and issued evacuation notices to residents downstream. Hours later, the county's fire rescue department said there was "substantial flooding in the area of the dam and creek," but that the structure was holding.

Debby pulls down power lines, scatters debris in Savannah

As Debby moved over Savannah, Georgia, Michael Kavanaugh watched rain pour down for more than 48 hours, flooding the streets of his home community of Wilmington Island, around 10 miles east of the city's downtown. Although he didn't see widespread destruction and only a few nearby trees were downed, the storm still left a mark, said Kavanaugh, 67.

"There's a lot of debris all over," he said. "A couple of power lines were drooping on the ground."

The storm prompted Kavanaugh, the pastor of Saint Peter the Apostle Catholic Parish, to close down the church's school Monday and Tuesday. Other areas of Savannah, like the historic downtown neighborhood of Ardsley Park where Kavanaugh grew up, would likely experience longer inconveniences from the flooding, he said.

By Wednesday morning, Kavanaugh walked out of his office and noticed the storm clouds had broken. "I saw blue skies for the first time since I don't know when," he said.

Charleston lifts citywide curfew as Debby churns offshore

The city of Charleston on Wednesday lifted a curfew that had been in place since Monday night when Debby first began inundating South Carolina with torrential rain.

"After assessing overnight conditions, officials have determined that it is safe to return to normal activities," the statement said, adding that main thoroughfares in and out of the city have been reopened. "Thanks to the curfew, Charleston Police and Fire Departments did not need to perform any rescues during the (storm)."

Downtown Charleston received 3.56 inches of rain Tuesday, breaking the previous record of 3.46 that was set in 1992, according to the National Weather Service. Surrounding areas in Charleston County were drenched in up to 10.5 inches of rain since Monday.

"Expect long term river flooding to inhibit recovery efforts at least into next week, possibly beyond," the weather service office in Charleston said on X.

Charleston Mayor William Cogswell said in a statement that the city "will remain vigilant as Debby lingers nearby, but for now we are just grateful for everyone doing their part."

A man walks on a flooded street amid rains from Tropical Storm Debby on Aug. 6, 2024, in Charleston, South Carolina.

Nearly 21,000 without power in Florida amid heat advisories

Two days after Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane, swaths of northern Florida were still without power Wednesday afternoon as intense heat baked parts of the southern U.S.

Across the Big Bend region, almost 21,000 homes and businesses were in the dark, according to Poweroutage.us. At its peak, more than 250,000 utility customers had no power as the storm's winds knocked down utility poles and uprooted trees.

Heat advisories were active across the Big Bend as well as South Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi. In northern Florida, heat index temperatures were expected to reach 109 degrees, according to the National Weather Service, which urged people to stay out of the sun and seek air conditioning.

Contributing: Charles Ventura and Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA TODAY; Sherry Jones, Renee Spencer, Gareth McGrath, Owen Hassell, Wilmington Star-News; Reuters

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Debby updates: Flooding fears after tropical storm makes landfall
Illusiuonist David Copperfield has allowed his multimillion-dollar Manhattan apartment devolve into a state of dilapidation so severe, architects warned it could actually threaten the structural integrity of the entire building.

Thats according to an eye-popping lawsuit filed Tuesday by board of The Galleria, a condo on East 57th Street, which accuses the 67-year-old Copperfield  the worlds highest-paid magician  of causing some $3 million worth of damage not only to his own formerly pristine multilevel penthouse, but to other tenants homes.

Copperfield trashed the place, which he no longer occupies but still owns, leaving it in appalling condition, the complaint states. His motivation to destroy his own apartment and permit it to decay is entirely unclear, especially when he still owns the Unit and is marketing it for sale, says the complaint.

David Copperfield has let his 15,000 square-foot penthouse get so dilapidated, it actually may threaten the structural integrity of the entire building, according to the propertys condo board. (Getty Images; New York State Supreme Court)

While the situation has spawned potential health hazards along with the physical decay, the complaint contends Copperfield refuses to confront the consequences of his actions and denies all responsibility for the damage he has caused to the building and his former neighbors.

Joshua Stricoff, the attorney who brought the lawsuit on behalf of The Galleria, told The Independent he didnt have anything to add that wasnt already in the complaint, and the allegations and photographs of the wrecked unit included in court filings required no further explanation.

In an email sent after this article was published, a representative for Copperfield said, This is a simple insurance claim. The photographs included in the lawsuit dont reflect the current state of the apartment. This is a court matter and will be handled in court.

A soiled bathtub in David Copperfields multimillion-dollar Manhattan condo, a photograph was included in a stunning lawsuit filed against him on Tuesday. (New York State Supreme Court)

Copperfield, born David Kotkin in Metuchen, New Jersey, began performing at age 12 under the name Davino, the Boy Magician. In the years since, Copperfield has won 21 Emmy Awards, was named a King of Magic by the Society of American Magicians, and was given the Living Legend Award by the Library of Congress.

He owns 11 private islands, and his face appears on postage stamps issued by nations including Guyana, Dominica, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Copperfield was also recently accused of sexual assault, an allegation he strongly denied, and has been linked to late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

Copperfields 15,000 square-foot quadruplex, which sits atop the buildings 54th floor and includes an indoor pool, comprises two penthouses originally combined in the mid-1970s into a single dreamhouse by General Motors heir Stewart Rawlings Mott. In 1991, The Galleria found itself in the news when Eric Claptons 4-year-old son fell to his death from an open window on the 53rd floor.

Copperfield bought the unit in 1997 for $7.4 million, according to the complaint, which says the residence is so large, it is serviced by its own dedicated heating, ventilation, electrical and hot water systems. Because the equipment is not used by any other tenants, the complaint says the condo bylaws place responsibility for its upkeep and repair on the apartments owner.

The Galleria condo board found Copperfields place trashed, according to a lawsuit filed Tuesday. They listed several allegations against the magician and his upkeep of the penthouse (New York State Supreme Court)

Copperfields presence in the building, from the start, has been tumultuous, the complaint continues, calling him a far cry from a model resident. Upon taking possession of the massive penthouse, the complaint says Copperfield notoriously jam packed the Unit with novelties such as fortune telling machines, classic arcade games and other, more bizarre items like hazing devices apparently used by various fraternities during the turn of the century.

The problems Copperfield later unleashed have been a significant and ongoing issue  much publicized in Page Six and elsewhere  for quite some time, according to the complaint.

In 2009, it says Copperfields private elevator incurred a violation with the New York City Department of Buildings, costing the condominium board an unspecified amount in penalties and fines.

In 2015, Copperfields indoor pool burst, which the complaint claims happened due to the magicians use of illegal and ineffective plastic plumbing fixtures. Water cascaded down throughout the building, damaging elevators and apartments as far as 30 stories below, according to the complaint.

In 2017, Copperfield yet again brought the Condominium to the brink of litigation over required window repairs he simply ignored for years, the complaint alleges.

But, it says, the following year, things took a turn for the surreal.

In 2018, according to the complaint, Copperfield abandoned the Unit, stripping it of its furniture and fixtures.

Since then, Copperfield has let the Unit devolve into a state of complete dilapidation, the complaint states. To say that he trashed the Unit is an understatement. The pictures of the Unit are appalling and speak for themselves.

The water damage in Copperfields apartment is so extensive, it could weaken the entire buildings structural integrity, according to the condo boards lawsuit. (New York State Supreme Court)

Once the condo board discovered the condition of Copperfields apartment, it hired an architecture firm to assess the damage, according to the complaint. The architects compiled their findings in a March 10 report that the board says confirmed [its] worst fears.

Between extensive water damage that threatens the concrete structure of the building itself; interior water damage has spurred mold and mildew growth so severe that it conceals the underlying issues; leaking skylights and millwork; falling debris that created an active safety risk to anyone entering the space; pipes on the verge of bursting; inadequate gas leak protection; shoddy electrical work not up to code, varying levels of soiling in the bathrooms, and large quantities of unattended combustible materials, the architects report says the apartments current conditions pose potential safety and health hazards and should not remain within an occupied building.

The condo board says it sent the architects report to Copperfields lawyer to no avail.

In response, Copperfield at most caused band-aid repairs to be performed to some of the purely cosmetic issues identified by [the report], the complaint states. Several of the more significant and dangerous issues such as subsurface decay/damage, structural stability, and mold growth remain unaddressed.

Copperfield still owns the apartment, which he has put up for sale, regardless of its current state. (New York State Supreme Court)

According to the complaint, the board learned that when Copperfield moved out in 2018, he fired his house manager, housekeeper, and handyman, who maintained the units purpose-built mechanicals.

Since then, unbeknownst to the board, no one has looked after any of the equipment, leading to a Dec. 27, 2023, valve failure in Copperfields mechanical room that completely blindsided building management. That, the complaint states, caused flooding throughout various apartments, elevator shafts, hallways and beyond, requiring an estimated $3 million in repairs.

Copperfield and his insurer told the condo board that he and his staff were unaware of the mechanical room or their obligation to maintain it, a claim the complaint dismisses as fiction, as they had taken care of those duties for years previously.

The board still does not know the full extent of the damage it says Copperfield caused, but believes the level of decay that Copperfield has permitted to occur in his Unit has likely penetrated to a subsurface level. It continues to discover additional damage, and says it its complaint that it reserves all rights to amend the filing to include newly estimated repair costs arising from Copperfields destruction of his Unit and wanton disregard of his duty of care to the Condominium, the terms of the Condominiums governing documents, and basic decency.

In short, the complaint concludes, Copperfield must be held accountable for his misconduct.

The condo board is demanding a total of $7.5 million, plus yet-to-be-determined punitive damages and legal fees.
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.
Tenacious D may be making a comeback after all.

Jack Black told Variety at the "Borderlands" premiere Tuesday that the comedy rock band "will be back" following the cancelation of their Spicy Meatball Tour due to his bandmate Kyle Gass' controversial comment about the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

"We need to take a break. Everybody needs a break sometime. And we'll be back," Black said, adding, "I love Tenacious D. It's probably my favorite job, if you can call it that. It's a work of art, it's my baby."

When asked if the actor and Gass have spoken since their tour cancelation, he told the outlet, "Yeah, we're friends. That hasn't changed. These things take time sometimes And we'll be back when it feels right."

USA TODAY has reached out to reps for Black for comment.

Jack Black says Tenacious D "will be back."

Tenacious D's potential comeback comes after the "School of Rock" actor told USA TODAY in a statement on July 16 that he was "blindsided" by Gass saying "don't miss Trump next time" on stage during their show on July 14.

Black also announced he was ending the Tenacious D tour and pausing plans to continue working with Gass.

"I would never condone hate speech or encourage political violence in any form," the actor and rocker said. "After much reflection, I no longer feel it is appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour, and all future creative plans are on hold. I am grateful to the fans for their support and understanding."

Jack Black 'blindsided' by Kyle Gass' Trump shooting comment, ends Tenacious D tour

Kyle Gass apologizes for his 'dangerous' joke about Trump assassination attempt: 'Terrible mistake'

During a Tenacious D show on July 14 in Sydney, Black presented a cake to Gass for his birthday and told him to make a wish. "Don't miss Trump next time," Gass said, referencing the assassination attempt on Trump.

In his own statement shared on Instagram following the show, Gass apologized for the remark and made clear that it was not planned.

"The line I improvised onstage Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake," he said. "I don't condone violence of any kind, in any form, against anyone. What happened was a tragedy, and I'm incredibly sorry for my severe lack of judgement."

Jack Black's bandmate, Donald Trump and when jokes go too far

He added, "I profoundly apologize to those I've let down and truly regret any pain I've caused."

Meanwhile, Gass was dropped by his talent agency Greene Talent due to the Trump comment, agent Michael Greene confirmed to USA TODAY.

Black has been performing with Gass in Tenacious D, a comedy rock band, since 1994. They co-starred in a comedy film about the band, "Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny," in 2006.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jack Black clarifies Tenacious D's future after Trump comments
Andrey_Popov // Shutterstock

Everyone has experienced the pain of losing something importantseemingly always at the worst times.

Americans lose an average of five items per month, according to a Shane Co. survey. Tile utilized that data to chart the most commonly lost items in the U.S.

People spend an average of nearly 17 hours searching for lost items annually, taking about 16 minutes to find each lost item, according to the survey. Those delays can cause turmoilover a third of Americans have been late for work or school due to losing an item, and 13% have gotten into fights with loved ones over it.

That frustrationdirected at yourself or otherscan make it even harder to find lost items, as anger and panic can jumble your memory, psychology professor Susan Krauss Whitbourne told Vice. It's better to stay calm, think carefully about where you last had the item, and search for it methodically rather than impulsively. Indeed, about 1 in 5 Americans said they most often find lost items in the place where they should have been all along.

Ultimately, losses tend not to be unique. Losing frequently used items is a part of life, especially as people tend to own more things than they once did. Read on to see how your most commonly lost items compare to other Americans.

Tile

These are the items Americans lose most

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most commonly lost items were also among the most ubiquitous and important: phones and keys. Most people don't leave home without these items, making losing them all the more stressful.

Often, people lose items due to absent-mindednessi.e., they are focusing on something else when parting with the to-be-lost item and fail to commit its location to memory, making it harder to recall later. Remotes, headphones, and wallets can thus be easily lost as people are often thinking about what they are watching, listening to, or purchasing when setting these items down.

Absent-minded tendencies show in the places where lost items eventually turn up, as well. Most frequently, Americans report finding their lost items in the couch or in clothing they recently wore. These spots lend themselves to split focus, whether setting down the remote once you've already begun watching a show or leaving your wallet in your pocket when you change into pajamas at the end of a long day.

The most straightforward way to lose fewer things is to designate a place for your essential items and build a habit of putting them there. These routines can take time to build. To keep it simple and achievable, psychologists recommend starting with a designated "dump place" where you exclusively store the items you need dailyideally, a spot not crowded with other items and one that fits into your existing space and habits.

Others recommend tagging important belongings with a specific color that will stand out, making them easier to spot, or taking photos of items to reference their location. Nowadays, there are also technological solutions to help find lost items, such as "find my device" apps on phones and physical tags that you can add to keychains or wallets.

Ultimately, losing things less often will require a solution that works with how your mind operates. And, when in doubt, check your couch, yesterday's clothes, and the place the item is supposed to be.

Story editing by Alizah Salario. Additional editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn.

This story originally appeared on Tile and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
By Joseph Ax

(Reuters) -The Minnesota Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld a law signed last year by Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential candidate, that restores the right to vote for felons who have completed their prison terms.

The court's unanimous ruling did not address the merits of the law, instead finding that the conservative group that had challenged the law, the Minnesota Voters Alliance, did not have the legal standing to do so.

In a statement, the alliance's founder, Doug Seaton, said the decision "sidesteps the necessary constitutional scrutiny" of the law.

Walz, a two-term governor, was named the running mate for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris on Tuesday. The two were traveling to Wisconsin and Michigan on Wednesday during their first campaign swing as a White House ticket.

The law in question allows felons to vote after they have been released from prison, even if they remain on parole or probation. Incarcerated felons are not permitted to cast ballots in Minnesota.

The campaign of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump criticized Walz on Tuesday for supporting the law, even though Trump himself was convicted of 34 felonies in New York this year for falsifying business records to cover up a hush-money payment to a porn star.

Trump lives and votes in Florida, which defers to the jurisdiction where a conviction occurred when determining whether a felon can vote. Under New York law, similar to Minnesota, convicted felons such as Trump are permitted to vote unless they are incarcerated at the time of the election.

Trump has maintained his innocence and claimed without evidence that the New York case is part of a Democratic conspiracy against him.

(Reporting by Joseph Ax in Princeton, New JerseyEditing by Deepa Babington and Matthew Lewis)
USGS reported a magnitude 5.2 earthquake centered about 18 miles southwest of Bakersfield just after 9 p.m. Tuesday.

A magnitude 5.2 earthquake, centered about 18 miles southwest of Bakersfield, was felt across a wide swath of Southern California on Tuesday night.

Its size rattled nerves but caused no major damage or injuries. Two minutes after the earthquake hit, a large boulder  the size of an SUV  was reported blocking multiple southbound lanes of Interstate 5, about a mile south of Grapevine Road, the California Highway Patrol said. The boulder was cleared by Wednesday morning.

The earthquake, originally estimated at magnitude 5.3, struck at 9:09 p.m., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It was followed by dozens of aftershocks of magnitude 2.5 and up, including a magnitude 4.5 earthquake that occurred less than a minute after the first, and a magnitude 4.1 temblor at 9:17 p.m.

The epicenter was in sparsely populated farmland, about 14 miles northwest of the unincorporated community of Grapevine in Kern County, 60 miles northwest of Santa Clarita, and about 88 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles.

The area closest to the epicenter felt "very strong" shaking as defined by the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale; that zone includes a section of the California Aqueduct, which transports water from Northern California to Southern California.

By the time shaking was felt in more populated areas, including Bakersfield, Santa Clarita and Ventura, the USGS calculated that only "weak" shaking was felt, which can rock standing cars and cause vibrations in a building similar to the passing of a truck.

Some residents affected by the quake reported an extended period of shaking. One person in Los Feliz felt 45 seconds of movement, with at least three different waves  one weak, followed by a strong one, then again a weak one. In South Pasadena and Whittier, people felt about 20 seconds of shaking, contained in two distinctive waves.

In Pasadena, seismologist Lucy Jones said she felt about three seconds of shaking.

There were no immediate reports of damage. And not everyone felt the earthquake. L.A. County Sheriffs Deputy Jose Gomez said he didnt feel the shaking during his drive into work at the sheriffs Santa Clarita station. No damage was reported there.

The Los Angeles Fire Department said no significant damage was reported within city limits.

The USGS said the quake was felt across the Los Angeles Basin and inland valleys and in Santa Maria, Bakersfield and Fresno.

Many Southern California residents described getting alerts from the USGS' earthquake early warning system, such as through the MyShake app or on their Android phones. (The earthquake early warning system is automatically installed on Android phones, but people with Apple iOS phones need to install the MyShake app to get the most timely alerts.)

One person described getting 30 to 45 seconds of warning before feeling the shaking arrive. Another person, in east Anaheim, reported 30 seconds of warning before shaking arrived.

Jones, a research associate at Caltech, said the duration of shaking can vary so much in the L.A. area because the length of time the earth moves at any given spot can depend on the soil and rocks beneath the location, whether a person is sitting still or moving around, and even whether an individual is on the ground floor or on top of a skyscraper  those on higher floors feel the shaking more strongly.

The reason some people may have felt more than one wave of shaking is that the first aftershock occurred so soon  less than a minute  after the main shock, Jones said.

Geophysics professor Allen Husker, head of the Southern California Seismic Network at Caltech, said it wasn't surprising that so many people in the L.A. area felt significant shaking from a magnitude 5.2 earthquake north of the Grapevine. The temblor occurred at night, when people are resting and more likely to feel shaking from a distant quake than if they were out and about during the day and active.

Another reason many people felt substantial movement is due to the way shaking is amplified in the Los Angeles Basin. The basin is a 6-mile-deep, bathtub-shaped hole in the underlying bedrock filled with weak sand and gravel eroded from the mountains and forming the flat land where millions of people live. It stretches from Beverly Hills through southeast L.A. County and into northern Orange County.

"The basin effect ... increases the shaking that you would otherwise normally have," Husker said.

The effect happens when waves from the shaking arrive and hit the walls of the basin, then bounce back at the walls of the basin, Jones said, resulting in an "extended duration."

A major earthquake on the San Andreas fault would result in perhaps 50 seconds of strong shaking in downtown L.A. "This earthquake was much, much smaller, of course," Jones said, "but it was large enough to set up some of these basin effects and get things bouncing around."

As with all earthquakes, there was a 1 in 20 chance that Tuesdays temblor was a foreshock to a larger earthquake. The risk that a follow-up quake will be larger diminishes over time.

Read more:Are you oblivious to L.A. earthquakes? Here's why you might be a 'never-feeler'

It has been several years since a magnitude 5.2 or greater earthquake hit Southern California, and Tuesday's quake was the strongest to strike the region in three years. A magnitude 5.3 quake occurred in June 2021 just southeast of the Salton Sea in Imperial County, about 160 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. And in June 2020, a magnitude 5.5 quake struck the Mojave Desert in the northwestern corner of San Bernardino County, about 120 miles northeast of downtown L.A. and about 14 miles east of Ridgecrest in Kern County.

The earthquake occurred about 12 miles northwest of the epicenter of the magnitude 7.5 Kern County earthquake that struck on July 21, 1952. That earthquake resulted in 12 deaths, and, according to the USGS, old and poorly built masonry buildings suffered damage. Some of those structures collapsed in communities including Tehachapi, Bakersfield and Arvin; heavy damage was reported at Kern County General Hospital.

Shaking from the 1952 earthquake was felt as far away as San Francisco and Las Vegas, and caused nonstructural but extensive damage to tall buildings in the Los Angeles area and damage to at least one building in San Diego, according to the USGS.

The 1952 earthquake occurred on the White Wolf fault. Tuesdays earthquake wasnt associated with any previously mapped faults.

Times staff writers Jon Healey, Ian James, Jason Neubert, Sandra McDonald and Raul Roa contributed to this report.

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.
Students protest in support of debt cancellation outside the supreme court in Washington DC on 30 June 2023. Photograph: Allison Bailey/NurPhoto/Shutterstock

The American Federation of Teachers, one of the largest teachers unions in the US, is suing a major federal student loan servicer, alleging it misleads and misinforms borrowers.

The lawsuit alleges the Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri (Mohela) committed a series of abuses including deflecting calls from borrowers and illegally deducting payments from borrowers bank accounts without their consent.

It also accuses the non-profit organization, which services federal and private student loans, of failing to send millions of borrowers their bills on time and causing them to fall behind on payments, also sending inaccurately higher bills, misinforming borrowers about key deadlines to remain in affordable payment plans, and denying eligible public service workers student loan relief.

Since 2011, the US Department of Education has paid Mohela over $1.1bn to do one job: help borrowers navigate their student loan options. Mohela has consistently failed at this job, to borrowers detriment, the complaint, brought in the superior court of the District of Columbia, said.

The lawsuit says that Americans are drowning in student debt, where 45 million people owe more than $1.7tn. They can spend decades paying off the cost of college.

The AFT accuses Mohela of breaking the law and quickly growing to service 8 million borrowers by cutting corners and carrying out a shocking series of abuses, according to the complaint. The union said workers such as healthcare providers and teachers were acutely affected.

The AFT represents nearly 1.8 million public school teachers, healthcare workers and other public service workers across the country.

Kamala Harris, the US vice-president and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, addressed the AFT in Houston last month after receiving the unions endorsement for her presidential run in the 2024 election. She asked the crowd to picture a future where no teacher has to struggle with the burden of student-loan debt.

Related: Kamala Harris seeks to bolster pro-labor stance in speech to teachers union

On Tuesday, Harris selected the governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, as her running mate, who began his career as a schoolteacher and was in the classroom for years before entering politics.

Mohela is among a small group of companies that have contracts with the federal government to handle billing and servicing student loan borrowers.

Mohela, one of the largest holders and servicers of student loans in the United States, based in St Louis, Missouri, was also at the center of the supreme court case brought by Republican attorneys general for several states that struck down Bidens original student loan forgiveness plan for millions of borrowers, which could have seen up to $20,000 of federal student debt wiped per person.

And Mohela, until 1 May of this year, was the sole servicer for those eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) such as employees of not-for-profit organizations and government, including public school teachers.

After making 120 qualifying monthly payments over 10 years, PSLF borrowers should get the remaining balance on their federal direct loans forgiven.

But Mohela has in the past come under fire for allegedly misleading public service workers about their right to get credit towards debt cancellation when consolidating their loans, as well as denying eligible public service workers relief.

In an April Senate hearing, Elizabeth Warren, the Massachusetts senator, who sits on the Senate banking subcommittee, said Mohela failed borrowers of all kinds, but it has been particularly derelict in its duties administering the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Warren addressed what she called the companys call deflection scheme which she said diverted firefighters or teachers with loans from live agents to dead-end parts of its website.

I dont understand why Mohela should be let within 10,000ft of a student loan program, Warren said.

Randi Weingarten, the AFT president, said it was past time that Mohela was held to account.

Mohela was hired by the federal government to help borrowers pay down debt, but instead it hung them out to dry to line its own pockets, she said, in a statement.

Winston Berkman-Breen, legal director at Student Borrower Protection Center, said the company was violating consumer protection law.Every borrower in the country has the right to servicing, free from unfair and deceptive conduct. Each time Mohela sends an inaccurate bill, gives wrong advice or catches a borrower in a customer service doom loop, it violates those rights, he said.

At a press conference on Capitol Hill in May, US congresswoman Ayanna Pressley called on the Biden administration to protect borrowers by firing Mohela, citing profiteering.

Mohela representatives did not respond to a request for comment.
A cabbage growers tips for long-lasting cabbage.

Simply Recipes / Getty Images

Cabbage is a surprisingly versatile vegetable to keep around and is forgiving to cook with. Slice cabbage thin for a salad, roast it in the oven with oil and spices, saute it, or throw it in a soupnot all veggies wear that many hats! My favorite way to use cabbage is grilled with peanut sauce (seriously, try it).

Cabbage has specific storage preferences. Unless your grocery store offers halved cabbage heads, you typically buy an entire head. It's almost always more than you can use for your planned dish. Cue: a sad half-head of cabbage that sits forgotten in the back of the fridge.

One of the most impactful moves in my quest to minimize food waste has been learning to store food properly to maximize its life. I went straight to the experts and called up a head farmer, Marissa Pappalardo, at Killeen Crossroads Farm & Flowers, where cabbage is one of their bestsellers, to discuss the best way to store it.

The Best Place To Store Cabbage

According to Marissa, the best place to store cabbage is in the crisper drawer in your refrigerator. Once the cabbage is cut, the fridge is still the best place for storage, preferably in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer. You can peel back outer layers if they start to look dehydrated or wilted. The more layers, generally the longer the cabbage can last, instructs Marissa.

Marissa shared that a fresh head of cabbage should last up to a month in the fridge. Thats your hint: buy fresh cabbage! If you can find locally grown cabbage, it will have a much longer shelf life. After that, it may start to get funky. Funky cabbage is defined by an off-putting smell or soft and discolored leaves. Mold and soft spots are other indicators that your cabbage would be better suited to the compost bin.

Simply Recipes / Getty Images

How To Store Different Types of Cabbage

Napa, green, Savoy, red oh my! Properly storing different varieties of cabbage ensures the best flavor and texture for your dishes. With its crinkly leaves, Savoy cabbage is best kept loosely wrapped in plastic in the fridge, where it can last up to a week.

Red and green cabbages, sturdier and denser, can be stored in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for up to two weeks, also wrapped in plastic to prevent moisture loss.

Napa cabbage, or Chinese cabbage, with its delicate, frilly texture, should be kept in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge and used within a week for optimal freshness. Each type of cabbage has unique characteristics, but all benefit from cold, humid storage conditions to maintain their quality and flavor.

Too Much Cabbage? Try These Recipes

Read the original article on Simply Recipes.
China hopes Bangladesh to restore order

13:51, August 07, 2024 By ZHAO JIA ( Chinadaily.com.cn

China expressed on Tuesday its sincere hope for Bangladesh to restore its social stability at an early date.

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 amid protests in the South Asian country.

China is closely following the developments in Bangladesh, a foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement.

"As a friendly neighbor and comprehensive strategic cooperative partner of Bangladesh, China sincerely hopes that social stability will be restored soon in the country," the statement said.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  Robert F. Kennedy Jr. insisted he plans to return to live in New York, as the independent presidential candidate was grilled for a second day Wednesday about his residency and whether he should be kept off the Empire States ballot in November.

A lawsuit filed on behalf of several voters seeks to invalidate the petition Kennedy submitted to get on the New York ballot, alleging he listed a residence in the New York City suburb of Katonah on the petition while he has lived in the Los Angeles area since 2014.

Kennedy testified again Wednesday that Katonah was his home address. He said his move to California a decade ago was only temporary so he could be with his wife, Curb Your Enthusiasm actor Cheryl Hines, and that he always planned to return to New York.

The voters' attorneys have sought to demonstrate Kennedy is not a New York resident, relying on government documents and even a recent social media video in which Kennedy talks about taming ravens he feeds at his Los Angeles home. In a testy exchange in the Albany courtroom, attorney Keith Corbett repeatedly asked Kennedy whether moving to California with his family and pets demonstrated his intention to reside in that state.

Kennedy balked at providing a yes or no answer, saying the reality was more nuanced.

Do you want a yes or no answer, or do you want the truth? Kennedy said.

My intention is to return to New York and thats the only requirement for residency, he said.

Under questioning from his own lawyer, Kennedy said he moved to California out of love for his wife and concern for her career.

I said I would figure out a way to make a living in California until we could move back, and that was our agreement," he said.

He said it was difficult for him to leave New York because he had built his life there.

The residence in question is a room in a home in well-to-do Katonah, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) north of midtown Manhattan. Kennedy testified Wednesday that he has only slept in that room once, citing his constant travel with a security detail for his campaign.

Shown a photograph of the room by Corbett, Kennedy acknowledged the furniture and painting in the room are not his, but he said pictures on the nightstand belong to him.

I think one of them is a photo of me and Mick Jagger, he said.

Kennedy's lawyer, William F. Savino, asked him why he didnt just rent or buy a house in New York in the last 10 years. Kennedy said homeownership is time consuming and expensive.

It snows a lot here," he said. The pipes break, the driveway needs to be plowed and all these other burdens that are associated with home ownership.

Kennedy, who lived in New York for years before moving to California, noted his father was similarly accused when he ran for a New York Senate seat in 1964 and won. Months before that election, his father, Robert F. Kennedy, rented a home on Long Island.

He was also accused of not being a New Yorker, he said.

The woman who owns the Katonah property testified Tuesday that Kennedy rents a room there for $500 a month, but she acknowledged those payments began a day after a New York Post story questioned the candidates claim that he lives in New York. The initial payment was for $6,000, equal to a years back rent.

Kennedy testified Wednesday that he thought his assistant had been paying rent for the previous year and that he made sure payments started after the newspaper story.

In a video posted on Facebook Tuesday, the 70-year-old Kennedy said he has lived in New York since his father moved there in 1964. This was after his fathers brother, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated. The candidates own father was shot to death in 1968 while running for president.

The lawsuit against Kennedy is backed by Clear Choice PAC, a super PAC led by supporters of Democratic President Joe Biden. A judge is set to decide the outcome without a jury.

While independent presidential candidates like Kennedy face extremely long odds, he has the potential to do better than any such candidate in decades, helped by his famous name and a loyal base. Both Democrat and Republican strategists worry he could negatively affect their candidates chances.

Kennedys campaign has said he has enough signatures to qualify in a majority of states, but his ballot drive has faced challenges and lawsuits in several states, including North Carolina and New Jersey.

___

Associated Press writer Dave Collins in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed.
A death row inmate convicted of strangling a jogger to death with her own shoestrings over 25 years ago in Texas is scheduled to become the third man executed in the state this year and the 11th in the nation.

Arthur Lee Burton, 54, is scheduled to be executed by lethal injection on Wednesday sometime after 6 p.m. CT. He was convicted in the July 29, 1997 rape and murder of Nancy Adleman, a 48-year-old Houston mother of three who had been out on a jog.

Burton confessed to the murder to police and told a prison sociologist it was "something I couldn't help," according to court records.

Burton has tried to stop his execution numerous times, including two appeals in July that were denied by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

Here's what you need to know about Burton's case, who Nancy Adleman was and other details of the upcoming execution.

Pictured is death row inmate Arthur Lee Burton. The 54-year-old was convicted in 1998 of murdering a jogger in Houston, Texas.

Who is Arthur Lee Burton?

Burton grew up fatherless with his brother, Michael Burton, who testified that they were on welfare as children and sometimes went without food or electricity, according to a federal appeals document filed by the state in 2010.

Burton's mother, Fannie Burton, told the court in 2002 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 testified that nothing happened that would anger Burton a week before Adleman's murder. She also said he returned home on the night of the killing with a flat tire on his bicycle and he was "laughing and seemed normal."

What was Arthur Lee Burton convicted of?

A Texas jury found Burton guilty of murdering Nancy Adleman on July 29, 1997.

Authorities found the mother of three's 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. Her shorts and underwear had been removed and discarded, according to court records.

Burton was arrested 10 days later and initially denied killing Nancy Adleman. He did eventually confess to the murder in a written statement, which detailed how he dragged her into the woods, choked her unconscious, removed her shorts and underwear and raped her, according to a 2004 court filing.

As Nancy Adleman began to regain consciousness, she started screaming, which led to Burton choking her unconscious again and dragging her into a hole. As Burton was about to leave the area, he saw another person walking nearby, so he returned to the hole and strangled Adleman with her shoelace.

In his confession to police, Burton said that Adleman's last words before her death were: "God forgives you and I do, too," according to Adleman's daughter, Sarah Adleman, who was 16 at the time and recently talked to USA TODAY about the crime.

"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 and her daughter, Sarah Adleman.

Who was Nancy Adleman?

Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Nancy Adleman was the eldest of three children and enjoyed theater and poetry, Sarah Adleman told USA TODAY.

Nancy Adleman began writing poetry at age 11 and continued to publish collections her entire life, according to her daughter.

She graduated with a theater degree from Louisiana State University and received a master of fine arts from the University of Minnesota before moving to Houston in the late 1970s. She soon married her husband of 18 years, Mark Adleman, and the two had three kids.

"Both she and Mark worked full time but found balance and connection by watching the sunset almost nightly in the backyard," Sarah Adleman said about her mother. "She woke most mornings to pray, meditate (and) write before anyone else was awake. She understood that joy is a choice and taped pieces of paper all over our house that said 'Choose Joy.'"

Sarah Adleman said that her father and oldest brother are planning to attend Burton's execution but that she will instead go to a river with friends and their children "for an afternoon of play and laughter."

"I think the greatest way to honor my mothers life is to be present with the joy in mind," she said. "We will have a gratitude and a forgiveness ceremony, a funeral of sorts. A letting go of the past 27 years."

Pictured is Nancy Adleman feeding seagulls.

When and where will Arthur Lee Burton be executed?

Burton will be executed after 6 p.m. on Wednesday at the state prison in Huntsville, about 70 miles north of Houston.

What will Arthur Lee Burton's last meal be?

According to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, condemned inmates in the state no longer make final meal requests.

"They choose from the menu that is available to all inmates at the Huntsville Unit where the execution is carried out," the department said.

The death chamber is seen through the steel bars from the viewing room at the state penitentiary in Huntsville, Texas in this September 29, 2010 handout.

Who will witness Arthur Lee Burton's execution?

The corrections department said it will not know the victim and condemned witnesses until sometime on Wednesday.

Sarah Adleman said her brother, Geoff, and her father, Mark, will be attending the execution. Geoff was 14 when his mother was killed.

Members of the media will be at the execution, including:

Huntsville Item

The Associated Press

The Houston Chronicle

KPRC

When is the nation's next execution?

The next execution is scheduled for Thursday, when Utah is expected to execute Taberon Dave Honie for the 1998 murder of Claudia Benn, a 49-year-old woman who was the mother of his girlfriend at the time.

Honie will mark the 12th execution in the country this year and the first in Utah since a 2010 execution by firing squad.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Arthur Lee Burton execution: What to know about the death row inmate
Beer drinkers are thinking about their wallets before they grab a cold one.

"Consumers [are] making different pack sizes choices," Molson Coors CEO Gavin Hattersley told Yahoo Finance in an exclusive interview. He said this behavior has been going on "for a while" and is "pretty consistent through through Q2."

After years of price hikes, consumers are looking for value while recession fears loom. Those who used to buy a 24-pack might buy a 30-pack or downgrade from a six-pack to a single serve, per Hattersley.

That's consistent with other consumer staples, especially food and beverage, Bryan Spillane, Bank of America analyst, told Yahoo Finance.

One of the main questions consumers are asking before buying is, "How much cash do you have in your pocket?" he said.

"Think about a Tallboy ... you don't have to buy a whole six-pack." Tallboys, which are singular 16 oz cans, have "definitely taken off," said Spillane.

Molson Coors saw its US volume spike 5% in Q2 last year as the Bud Light boycott drove drinkers to its brands. It said it held on to 80% of the market share it gained.

But its US volume dropped 7.8% this Q2, as its price mix in the Americas jumped 4.1%, higher than estimates of 2.7%.

Coors beer is displayed on a store shelf on February 13, 2024, in San Rafael, Calif. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) (Justin Sullivan via Getty Images)

How the summer  traditionally the strongest season for booze and beverage companies  plays out could give insight into the industry's performance for the next year.

A poor performance around the summer holidays could bring into question whether lower prices or more promotions could be on the table for 2025, Spillane said.

Rival Heineken's (HEIA.AS) shares fell 8% this week following its report last Monday that an anticipated boost from summer sporting events hasn't come to fruition. Meanwhile, Diageo (DEO) warned of a consumer slowdown in the US.

Anheuser-Busch InBev (BUD) saw US revenue decline by 0.6% in its Q2 report, while North America volume dropped 3.2%. The company said the results are "in line with the industry as we cycled a challenging comparable in April but gained volume share of the industry in May and June," per its press release.

Coca-Cola (KO) saw unit case volume decrease 1% in North America as pricing jumped 11%, while CEO James Quincey told Yahoo Finance consumers are looking for value. PepsiCo (PEP) saw volume in its North America beverage business drop 3.5% this quarter and its Frito-Lay business saw volume decline 4%, both missing estimates.

When Yahoo Finance asked if Hattersley was worried about a potential US recession, he said Q2 "had noise," but was a "strong" quarter overall.

"There were some weeks which are good. There were some weeks that were not but when you took the whole quarter together, it was a pretty similar trend to that which we've been experiencing," he said.

US drinkers are also leaning into Molson's core brands like Coors Light, Miller Lite, and Coors Banquet, while its premium offerings, like Blue Moon, have struggled.

"We've been really successful in the flavor space, in the US. We've made progress since we launched our strategy, but we've got more work to do there. We're not blind to that," the CEO said following a revamp of Blue Moon with new packaging, a rebrand of its light offering, and launch of Blue Moon non-alcoholic.

This comes as Constellation Brands' (STZ) Modelo Especial and Anheuser-Busch InBev's (BUD) Michelob Ultra are gaining share in the US, currently holding the No. 1 and No. 2 spots for best-selling beers.

Yet internationally, consumers are leaning into above-premium brands. In Europe, more than half of volume or revenue is from the pricier drinks, with "tremendous" success around the European lager Madri Excepcional, per Hattersley.

The fight for Americans' fridges is still sizzling in the background as the dust settles following the Bud Light boycott from last April.

"We've put a lot of hard work into our brands over the last four years, trying to make sure they're healthy ... consistent, and the quality is great," Hattersley said, pointing out that year-over-year comparison for this Q2 is especially tough given the big Q2 they had in 2023.

Molson Coors plans to continue to focus on distribution, display, and "highly relevant marketing campaigns," like its current Olympics campaign for Molson Canadian. It's also the official beer sponsor of Leagues Cup in the US, which he said "is a passion point" for one of its biggest, most important consumers, the Latinx population.



Brooke DiPalma is a senior reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter at @BrookeDiPalma or email her at bdipalma@yahoofinance.com.

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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)
PHILADELPHIA  When Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro bounded onto the stage Tuesday evening, he was energetic, charismatic and clearly at home.

It was a glimpse of what might have been. Before the harsh reality of politics set in.

Shapiro swallowed whatever disappointment he may have felt in losing out on the chance to become Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate and made himself the rousing hype man for the Democratic presidential nominee and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, whom Harris had asked just hours earlier to join her on the ticket.

I love you, Philly  and you know what else I love? I love being your governor! Shapiro said to deafening cheers from inside Temple Universitys Liacouras Center, where Harris and Walz were making their first joint campaign appearance.

For days, it had appeared that Shapiro would end up as Harris vice-presidential running mate. He had interviewed for the job, and the choice came down to him and Walz. Harriss decision to go with Walz stunned many given Shapiros credentials: Hes a popular governor of a battleground state that could determine the winner of the election.

But Shapiro also carried considerable baggage that would have made him a risky choice. Shapiro, who is Jewish, has infuriated the Democratic Partys progressives as well as Arab Americans and Muslims over his support for Israel in its ongoing war in the Gaza Strip.

And while his positions aren't that different from the other names on Harris's shortlist, it was Shapiro who frequently faced the toughest scrutiny.

Shapiro, 51, has been one of the most steadfast Democratic supporters of Israel, arguing that it has a right to defend itself from Hamas. He has been critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him "one of the worst leaders of all time. But he has also refrained from calling for an immediate cease-fire, which put him at odds with many of the partys left-wing voters.

How much Shapiros stance on Israel  and the possibility that could have splintered the party  weighed on Harriss decision to pick Walz wasnt immediately clear. Had Harris chosen him, Shapiro would have been the second practicing Jew to run for vice president, behind the late Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman, who ran alongside Al Gore in 2000. But voters have never elected a Jewish president or vice president in the nation's nearly 250-year history.

From the rally stage, Shapiro showed no signs of hard feelings. He heaped praise on Walz, calling him a dear friend and a great patriot and urging the crowd to give him a whole lot of love.

He doubled down on defending his Jewish faith  and even appeared to be firing back at detractors who had dubbed him "Genocide Josh."

I lean on my family, and I lean on my faith, which calls me to serve, Shapiro said. "And I am proud of my faith."

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro arrives before Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz speak at Temple University's Liacouras Center in Philadelphia.

'Family and faith ground me'

Shapiro's faith has been central to his personal life and political career from an early age, when he began a letter-writing campaign to raise awareness about Soviet Jews barred from leaving their country, to the final days of Harris's search for a running mate.

Shapiro grew up in Upper Dublin in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

As a child, Shapiro, with the help of his mother, Judi, started a letter-writing program to raise awareness about refuseniks, Soviet Jews who were refused permission to emigrate from the Soviet Union, usually to Israel, in the late 1960s through the 1970s.

These were Soviet Jewish children and families who were refused the ability to leave the Soviet Union, to practice their faith and to live free lives, he said during an interview with the USA Today Network when running for governor in 2021. And my mom served on those issues, and she got me inspired to work on those issues as well,

Shapiros pen-pal in that program, a boy named Avi, traveled to America to attend Shapiros bar mitzvah at the Beth Shalom synagogue near Upper Dublin. Avis family were granted asylum in Israel soon after.

Growing up, Shapiro attended the Forman Hebrew Day School and then the Akiba Hebrew Academy, now the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy.

During his 2022 gubernatorial bid, Shapiro didn't shy away from his faith  and neither did his opponent, state Sen. Doug Mastriano, a self-described Christian nationalist from Franklin County.

In his first campaign TV ad, Shapiro said no matter where he starts his day, "I make it home Friday night for Sabbath dinner," which he celebrates with his wife and four children every week, "because family and faith ground me."

Mastriano, speaking to supporters, said Shapiro harbored "disdain for people like us," because he "grew up in a privileged neighborhood, attended one of the most privileged schools in the nation as a young man... sending his four kids to the same privileged, exclusive, elite school."

Shapiro, however, turned Mastriano's extremist views against him, criticizing him for his ties to other Christian nationalists, including Andrew Torba, founder of the conservative social media platform Gab.

More: Why Kamala Harris chose Tim Walz over Josh Shapiro as her running mate

Israel's war with Hamas

Since the attack on Israel by Hamas and other Palestinian militants in Gaza on Oct. 7, 2023, Shapiro has several times rankled progressives and Arab-American and Muslim populations angered over Israel's response to the war. Israeli forces have killed nearly 40,000 Palestinian civilians and combatants, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

Shapiro has supported Israel's right to defend itself from Hamas. But he also has refrained from calling for a cease-fire, made references to the Ku Klux Klan in discussing pro-Palestinian protestors, and raised questions about his support for free-speech rights in calling for the firing for University of Pennsylvania President Elizabeth Magill over anti-Israel campus protests.

Some Shapiro defenders have said that the popular governor's position on Israel differs little from other Democratic lawmakers and that criticism of him is antisemitic.

Over the weekend, for example, he was forced to defend an essay he wrote for his college newspaper in which he suggested that Palestinians were too battle-minded to achieve a two-state solution in the Middle East. Shapiro said his views have evolved in the three decades since he penned the article, but critics called his remarks racist and anti-Palestinian.

Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, said she finds the conversation about Shapiro to be "concerning" and said he has "positions on Israel that largely align with the vast majority of other potential VP candidates."

There's a lot of important and constructive debate and criticism that should happen around his policies or anyone else's policies when it comes to Israel or campus protests, she said. But if it's only the Jewish candidate that is being singled out with terms like Genocide Josh, then that is deeply problematic.

More: New poll shows Josh Shapiro and Mark Kelly have higher favorability than Tim Walz

Other factors also may have kept Shapiro off the presidential ticket.

"There may have been an experience factor," said Robert Speel, professor of political science at Penn State's Behrend campus in Erie, Pa. "Walz not only has served as governor for six years, but he also served in Congress for many years before that. He also was an officer in the Army National Guard and served for a couple of decades. Tim Walz certainly has an impressive resume, which may have given him a boost over Shapiro."

Like Harris, Shapiro is a former state attorney general, but he has served as governor for less than two years, has no experience on the federal level and lacks military bona fides.

"There were some negative attributes to a potential Shapiro choice," Speel said. "One was his past support for school vouchers, which is not particularly popular with liberals. Second, the way he reacted last fall when there were protesters at university campuses in Philadelphia incensed over what was happening in the Middle East. There were many Democrats, particularly young Democrats, who were not happy with Shapiro kind of joining in with Republicans to attack student protestors. That may have played a role as well."

Shapiro, who many consider a moderate Democrat, would have added an ideological balance to the ticket while also helping Harris nab a critical battleground state.

Shapiro's candidacy, however, faced opposition on multiple fronts.

More: Josh Shapiro's vice presidential prospects spark debate over Israel policy, antisemitism

Sex scandal

Also, haunting Shapiro were questions about what he knew and when he knew it about sexual harassment claims involving a former cabinet member.

Last fall, Shapiro's office quietly settled for $295,000 a claim that a longtime ally had made numerous sexual advances toward a subordinate, as well as lewd comments about the subordinate, other female staffers and a female state senator, as The (Philadelphia) Inquirer has reported. The employee had only been on the job for two months when Mike Vereb, Shapiro's secretary of legislative affairs, allegedly began making the comments.

Days after the woman told Vereb that his conduct was becoming the subject of office gossip, she was called into a meeting with the human resources department for the governor's office. Vereb later mentioned to her that the meeting was about performance issues with her job.

The woman resigned in March after that meeting and a separate meeting with Shapiro staffers in which she addressed her concerns. She provided a statement to the state Office of Equal Opportunity that month, and in June filed a complaint with the state Human Relations Commission. The settlement, which included a non-disclosure agreement that prohibits all parties from commenting on the matter, was paid in September. Vereb resigned weeks later.

Shapiro has been peppered with questions about why Vereb was allowed to remain in his job for months after the allegations were lodged against him.

'It's kind of bittersweet'

At the campaign rally in Philadelphia, Marc Seide, a 34-year-old web designer from Philadelphia, said he believes Walz "balances out" the ticket and that Shapiro's opposition from progressives might have posed too many challenges.

"The is my first campaign event of the year, and I'm excited. I'm really excited to see how this goes," Seide said. "To go from (Joe) Biden to Harris and to see that energy out here in the crowd  it's tremendous."

Robin Reid, 63, of Philadelphia, said she had been rooting for Shapiro to become Harris' running mate "because hes from Pennsylvania, and hes just relatable.

"Ive never heard of Tim Walz, Reid said.

But at the same time," she added, "we were afraid of losing Josh Shapiro, so its kind of bittersweet."

Contributing: Riley Beggin

Matthew Rink can be reached at mrink@timesnews.com or on X at @ETNRink. Michael Collins covers the White House and can be reached @mcollinsNEWS.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Behind Shapiro's doomed VP bid: Israel, war in Gaza and other baggage
The Republican Partys media allies are yet again struggling to coalesce around a single attack on the Democratic ticket.

In the hours since Kamala Harris tapped Tim Walz as her running mate, top figures in right-wing media have thrown everything but the kitchen sink at the Minnesota governor as they race to define him, seeking to tarnish the Midwesterners image with only 90 days to go before Election Day.

On Tuesday, Walz was portrayed in harsh light as a left-wing radical who is supposedly out of touch with everyday Americans; he was criticized as a governor who allowed Black Lives Matter protesters to riot, engage in violence, and burn Minnesotas cities without consequence; and was accused of being groomed by the Chinese after he spent his honeymoon in China.

Fox News, naturally, led the charge, with the right-wing network devoting segment after segment to assailing Walz and his character.

Sean Hannity opened his program arguing that Harriss choice of Walz  who he called the most far-left governor in the United States  revealed she was the most extreme Democratic presidential candidate in history. Hannity not only disparaged Walz with a wide range of negative descriptors, but he also criticized his personal demeanor, claiming he is pretty weird.



Meanwhile, other MAGA Media figures, without an ounce of self-reflection or evidence, tried to shame the Democratic ticket by claiming that Walz was selected over Josh Shapiro simply because the Pennsylvania governor is Jewish.

He was denied this because he is a Jew, Jeanine Pirro declared on Fox, citing his position on the war in Gaza. And the problem right now is they are pleasing the Hamas end of the Democrat party.

Never mind that it was Donald Trump who dined at Mar-a-Lago with Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes and the Adolf Hitler-loving rapper Kanye West, among other moments in which he has embraced White nationalism over the years.

The wide array of attacks on Walz highlighted the GOPs ongoing difficulty in settling on a single, effective line of attack against the Harris campaign. Since she assumed the top spot on the Democratic ticket in July, right-wing media has been noticeably struggling to present a cohesive narrative against her. Instead, they have resorted to a range of disparaging remarks, branding Harris as a DEI candidate and mocking her laughter, among other offensive criticisms.



It remains to be seen whether the Trump campaign will eventually establish a clear and consistent strategy for defining Harris and Walz. While Trump previously fixated on President Joe Bidens age and stamina, he has struggled to craft a compelling narrative against his new Democratic rival.

And if the disjointed coverage from right-wing media on Tuesday indicates anything, it suggests that Trump and his allies are facing a formidable challenge in rallying around a unified strategy as the clock ticks toward Election Day.

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Amazon Web Services (AWS) unveiled a new partner program alongside significant updates to its existing initiatives, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI.

Generative AI took centre stage during the announcements at the AWS Public Sector Symposium, held at the National Convention Centre in Canberra.

Troy Anderson, senior manager of partner programs at AWS, introduced the generative AI targeted transformation module (TTM), now available globally.

This module offers a personalised, consultative engagement aimed at helping AWS partners accelerate their adoption of generative AI.

Partners receive training and resources to expand your knowledge of AWS services and also work toward developing a unique use case thats aligned to your own strengths, your growth strategy and the needs of your customers, Anderson explained.

The TTM pilot, launched in Q1 this year, exceeded expectations, with 17 partners, that includes a handful of Australian partners, as well as those from US and APJ participating instead of the anticipated 10. Weve completed 50 workshops globally and continue to see rising demand, he added.

PolarSeven, one of the partners involved in the pilot, highlighted the workshops value, which helped it refine its focus from generic use cases to solutions uniquely tailored to its business.

Anderson also noted that IT service provider NCS is working to enable 1,000 people to use AI-powered solutions, with plans to have 13,000 AI-enabled workers and 3,000 AI practitioners soon.

Theyre set to announce some exciting generative AI production wins in Australia, Anderson said.

Migration Acceleration Program Enhancements

AWS also introduced updates to its Migration Acceleration Program (MAP) for 2024, featuring three core improvements.

Were optimising for scale by accepting deals from $100,000 to $10 million, Anderson said. Weve increased speed by simplifying fund requests and streamlining the approval process. Finally, were evolving the program to support new customers in the early stages of cloud adoption.

These enhancements aim to make migration workloads a key avenue for partners to help customers embrace the cloud, among other strategies.

Expanding Managing Services

Anderson emphasised the potential of managed services to aid cloud adoption.

Partners with a breadth of offerings and deep AWS engagement see a $6 multiplier for every $1 of AWS sold, he noted. Partners can achieve a 30 per cent to 40 per cent gross profit margin through managed services.

AWS announced new benefits for partners aiming to build, market, and grow their managed service practice.

Through managed service build workshops, partners can accelerate business planning and align better with AWS sellers, Anderson said. They also receive discounts and extended free trials to help with tooling costs, driving profitable growth and customer value.

Out of the box

For its fourth program update, Anderson talked about solutions that would help simplify the partner experience in building and delivering outcome-focused solutions that are being sold to line-of-business buyers.

We are really excited to share that the business outcomes accelerator (BOX) program is now generally available around the globe, he said. We often hear from partners like yourselves that you want the opportunity to partner with other partners to help build things for end customers that might be better than you could even do yourself.

Anderson noted that BOX incentivises partners to develop repeatable, use case-specific solutions by providing in-person partner matchmaking events.

The partners then get to work together throughout the lifecycle of developing that solution and gain access to financial incentives, sales enablement and other resources to accelerate the creation and delivery of solutions, he said.

Lilia Guan travelled to the AWS Public Sector Summit as a guest of AWS.
Bluechip Infotech has signed an agreement with Norwegian video technology vendor Neat to offer its solutions in Australia.

Under the agreement, Bluechip will be able to resell Neat products to the Australian market.

Jason MacBride, Neat regional director for Australia and New Zealand (A/NZ), said working with partners like Bluechip is key to expanding the vendors reach in the Australian market.

Bluechip Infotech shares our commitment to providing customers with richer, more meaningful and engaging video meeting experiences for their modern hybrid workforce, he said.

Meanwhile, Willy Harsono, marketing and alliances director at Bluechip, added the partnership allows the company to expand its portfolio with Zoom and Microsoft Teams partners.
by Arundathie Abeysinghe

Despite Myanmars conflict, many Sri Lankans still travel to the former Burma in search of work but end up victims in trafficking networks. At least 40 have been freed recently, but dozens more are still captive. The authorities urge Sri Lankans, often vainly, to look for work at agencies registered with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).

Colombo (AsiaNews)  Sri Lankans continue to look to Myanmar for work, most of the time by illegal means, despite warnings about the ongoing war and the growing danger of falling victim to human trafficking.

The latest case involves 89 Sri Lankans who travelled illegally to the Southeast Asian country for work, but ended up in the hands of armed groups.

Sri Lankan and Myanmar authorities managed to secure the release of 40, who are now at the Myawaddy police station, but the others are still captive.

The Sri Lankan government continues to recommend not seeking employment in Myanmar through illegal means, urging anyone with information on human trafficking to contact the Ministry of Defence or the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Sri Lankans continue to enter Myanmar through various illegal means utilizing open visas in search of work, despite previous warnings given by domestic and international agencies, senior officials at the Foreign Affairs Ministry told AsiaNews.

About 56 Sri Lankan youths, predominantly young males and females had been detained in an area controlled by a designated terrorist group near the Myanmar-Thailand border. This site, dubbed a Cyber Criminal Area, was found via Google Maps.

These individuals had been enticed by promises of lucrative employment in Thailands information technology field, yet, they are in a precarious situation as they are employed for illegal activities.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry told parliament last week that three Sri Lankans had left for Myanmar from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, via Bangkok, Thailand in the previous week, despite widespread publicity and warnings against human trafficking.

He warned his fellow citizens not to travel to third countries with an "open visa, advising them to seek work only and exclusively through agencies registered with the SLBFE.

While the issue of migrants ensnarled in human trafficking has found a wide echo in the countrys Sinhala-language media, Tamils have largely been left in the dark. Hence, a group of Tamils from Jaffna, in the north of the island, were recently caught in this trap.

Meanwhile, on the 10th World Day against Trafficking in Persons (30 July), the Voice of Migrant Network (VOM) of Sri Lanka stressed that the authorities focus mainly on the income generated by migrant workers. In doing so, they neglect migrants welfare.

What is more, the database needed to "identify and assist" people trapped abroad is inadequate. This, VOM adds, threatens the "social fabric" of the country.

VOM also highlighted the difficulty of collecting data on those who left the island due to the lack of information from government agencies and stressed the importance of promoting safe migration.

For the advocacy group, It is necessary for SLBFE to implement a safe migration strategy. Although, they have committed to numerous initiatives, these have not been sufficiently impactful. VOM network conducted diverse awareness campaigns in all parts of the country and handed letters to officers at district secretariats and regional offices of SLBFE, urging them to stand against human trafficking and seek their cooperation. A banner display program was launched in selected cities to raise awareness on this critical issue.

According to SLBFE sources, there are two categories of migrant workers in Sri Lanka: those registered with the SLBFE and those who are not. The latter often travel on visit visas and face issues at their final destinations, most often leaving through unregistered employment agencies.

Problems arise when they face difficulties abroad. The SLBFEs standard response is to inquire, if the worker is registered with them. If not, they claim no responsibility or commitment to resolving their problems.

This is unacceptable, VOM argues that the government has a duty to all its citizens, especially since it benefits from their income.
Russia is continuing to fight a Ukrainian incursion launched the day before in Kursk, a region bordering Ukraine where five civilians were killed and thousands of others evacuated due to fighting and shelling, official sources said Wednesday.

According to Moscow, Ukrainian forces entered the region on Tuesday with some 300 soldiers, a dozen tanks and about 20 other armoured vehicles.

For its part, Kiev has been largely silent on the operation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced a "large-scale provocation" and said that "the Kiev regime" is "firing indiscriminately with various types of weapons, including rockets, at civilian buildings, houses and ambulances".

A Ukrainian source involved in the Kursk operation tells me that special forces from the security service of Ukraine, the SBU, shot down a Russian helicopter using a [first-person view] drone. The source shared this video and called the attack, a unique special operation in pic.twitter.com/Bandbb7Yy2 August 7, 2024

The leader is expected to meet later on Wednesday with the heads of the security forces and the army.

The Russian defence ministry said that "the operation to destroy Ukrainian army formations is continuing", more than 24 hours after the start of the incursion.

Clashes continued "overnight" in areas "immediately adjacent to the border", it added.

The ministry claimed on Telegram that Russian soldiers "prevented the enemy from advancing deep into Russian territory", apparently acknowledging that Ukrainian soldiers gained ground during the operation.

According to the Telegram channel Rybar, which has millions of followers and is close to the Russian military, Ukrainian troops seized three villages in the Kursk region.

A source in the Ukrainian security services (SBU) told AFP that a small drone destroyed a Russian Mi-28 helicopter in mid-flight, an event "unprecedented in the history of the war".

Thousands evacuated

Several thousand people evacuated the area due to the fighting and shelling, which left at least five civilians dead and 28 wounded, local authorities said.

According to the Russian Health Ministry, 13 people - including three minors - were hospitalised in the region after Ukrainian shelling.

The Ukrainian authorities are keeping almost completely silent on the situation in Kursk and several senior officials asked by AFP declined to comment.

So here's a Russian Sukhoi Su-34 jet destroyed in a Ukrainian attack at Russia's Morozovsk airbase.



Yes, imagine your reaction if someone had told you on February 24, 2022, that 895 days on, Ukraine would be raiding Russia's Kursk Oblast (although we have a lot of questions), pic.twitter.com/AQehfOh5Eb  Illia Ponomarenko  (@IAPonomarenko) August 6, 2024

Sergey Zgurets, a Ukrainian military expert, said the Ukrainian army appears to be trying to divert Russian forces from other sectors of the frontline, where they have been pressing for several months.

The geography of this part of Russia makes it possible "to effectively carry out this kind of deterrent action against the enemy with a small device, and this is probably what the Ukrainian army is doing," he told AFP.

Drone attacks

Two other Russian regions bordering Ukraine, Voronezh and Belgorod, were also targeted by Ukrainian drone attacks on residential buildings on Wednesday, according to local authorities.

"Two drones attacked a building" in Chebekino in Belgorod, smashing the windows of one flat and setting fire to another, Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov wrote on Telegram, saying "no one was injured".

In Voronezh, capital of the Voronezh region, the wreckage of two drones shot down by air defence damaged the facade of one building and shattered the windows of several flats in another, governor Alexander Gusev said.

On the Kursk front:



Ukrainian/free russian forces have taken control of the gas transit facility in Sudzha. They are present in settlements 11 to 15 kilometres from the border.



Putin regime forces are slow and chaotic in their response. pic.twitter.com/Fj2mQubaRz  Michael MacKay (@mhmck) August 7, 2024

Since the conflict began in February 2022, there have been several incursions into Russia by fighters from Ukraine.

The Russian military claimed to have repelled them each time, but some of them forced it to resort to artillery and aviation, as in the case of Tuesday's incursion.

The operation comes at a time when Kiev forces, short of ammunition and new recruits, have been struggling to contain the advance of Russian troops in eastern Ukraine in recent months.

In May, Russian troops also launched a ground offensive in the border region of Kharkov, where they seized several towns before being held back by the Ukrainian army.
7 August 2024 13:17 (UTC+04:00)

By Zara Araz

The recent announcement of an upcoming meeting of the Intergovernmental State Commission on economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Russia underscores the strengthening economic relations between the two nations. As both countries navigate a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, their economic partnership is proving to be a vital component of regional stability and development. This article examines the key aspects of their economic relationship, recent developments, and prospects.

Azerbaijan and Russia share a long history of economic interactions dating back to the Soviet era. Following Azerbaijan's independence in 1991, the relationship has evolved, focusing on trade, investment, and energy cooperation. The two countries have worked to foster a mutually beneficial economic environment, particularly in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and technology.

President Ilham Aliyev's meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu highlights the commitment of both nations to enhance their economic collaboration. The Intergovernmental State Commission, which serves as a platform for dialogue and cooperation, has been instrumental in facilitating economic projects and initiatives. The last meeting, held in Moscow in July 2023, emphasized the growing importance of this partnership, particularly in light of the ongoing changes in global economic dynamics.

Currently, approximately 900 joint ventures are operating in Azerbaijan, with one-third wholly owned by Russian entities. This figure reflects the strong interest of Russian businesses in the Azerbaijani market and signifies the potential for further investment. Industries such as energy, telecommunications, and agriculture are at the forefront of this collaboration, with joint ventures creating jobs and fostering innovation.

Energy cooperation remains a cornerstone of Azerbaijan-Russia relations. Azerbaijan is a key player in the Caspian Sea region, and its oil and gas resources are vital for energy security in Europe and beyond. Collaborative projects in this sector not only strengthen bilateral ties but also contribute to regional energy stability.

Trade between Azerbaijan and Russia has seen a steady increase, with both countries looking to diversify their economic portfolios. The establishment of joint ventures facilitates knowledge transfer and technological advancement, enhancing the competitive edge of both economies.

Agriculture is another critical area for cooperation. Both countries benefit from agricultural exchange, with Azerbaijan exporting a variety of agricultural products to Russia. This trade relationship helps diversify Azerbaijan's economy and provides Russian consumers with high-quality goods.

Infrastructure projects are vital for facilitating trade and enhancing connectivity between the two countries. Collaborative investments in transportation networks and logistics systems will boost economic activity and strengthen bilateral trade relations.

The ongoing development of joint ventures, combined with the commitment of both governments to strengthen economic ties, positions Azerbaijan and Russia well for future collaboration. As they continue to explore new avenues for cooperation, both nations stand to benefit from a more integrated economic relationship.

The upcoming meeting of the Intergovernmental State Commission on Economic Cooperation signifies a pivotal moment in the Azerbaijan-Russia partnership. As both countries navigate the complexities of the global economy, their commitment to strengthening economic ties will be crucial for promoting stability and prosperity in the region. With a focus on key sectors such as energy, trade, agriculture, and infrastructure, the Azerbaijan-Russia economic relationship is poised for continued growth, benefiting both nations and their citizens.

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7 August 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Azerbaijans advantageous geographical position and abundant resources have long enabled it to serve as a vital link between Europe and Asia. Today, this role as a bridge is being further strengthened through enhanced cooperation with neighboring countries.

A key initiative in this effort is the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor. This route facilitates connectivity between China, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye, and various European countries, by crossing the Caspian Sea and linking these regions seamlessly.

The development of bilateral relations with China is a key priority in Azerbaijans foreign policy. On July 3 of this year, a significant step was taken with the adoption of a Joint Declaration establishing a strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China, during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Astana.

This declaration highlights the commitment of both nations to collaborate on the Middle Corridor project. The document specifies that China is dedicated to actively participating in the construction and operation of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor). It emphasizes a joint effort to enhance the continuous operation and accelerated development of freight train routes between China and Europe, as well as the South Corridor. The declaration also underscores China's readiness to work closely with Azerbaijan and other countries along the route to foster regional cooperation, enhance production and supply chain security, and ensure stability. This alignment reflects a shared vision between China and Western interests regarding the Middle Corridor project.

In 2013, China introduced its "One Belt, One Road" initiative, a comprehensive economic development strategy designed to enhance infrastructure and foster connections between Eurasian countries. Azerbaijan was the first nation in the Caucasus to endorse this ambitious plan, positioning itself as a key logistics hub, junction, and bridge in the "One Belt, One Road" strategy.

Notable infrastructure projects, such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway and the Baku International Sea Trade Port, are crucial to the initiative and regional cooperation. The BTK railway, providing the most direct rail link between Europe and China, has significantly reduced transit times, allowing goods from China to reach Europe via Azerbaijan in just two weeks. Both Azerbaijan and China are committed to elevating their cooperation on the Middle Corridor, exploring new opportunities, and expanding their partnership.

The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway not only benefits Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye but also creates new economic prospects for the broader Eurasian region.

During President Ilham Aliyev's official visit to China in December 2015, a significant agreement was signed: the "Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the People's Republic of China on the Joint Promotion of the Silk Road Economic Belt."

Azerbaijan's unique position as a member of both the "East-West" and "North-South" transport corridors enables it to offer connectivity opportunities for countries to the north and south, facilitating their involvement in this major project.

The Middle Corridor, operational since 2014, stands out as the most efficient and secure route for transporting goods between China and Europe. Stretching from China through Kazakhstan, the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye to European countries, it has proven its value in global logistics.

In 2023, approximately 2.8 million tons of cargo were transported through the Middle Corridor, marking an 86 percent increase from the previous year. Projections for 2024 suggest that cargo volumes will surpass 4 million tons, with around 250 container block trains expected to transit the corridor by years end.

Furthermore, in the first half of 2024 alone, cargo transport on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route saw a 65 percent increase, reaching 2.1 million tons.

Given the current geopolitical climate and regional developments, the Middle Corridor has emerged as the most direct and efficient route linking Europe and Asia via Central Asia and the Caspian Sea. This route not only enhances its strategic importance but also opens up unique opportunities for deepening cooperation among countries across a broad region. Consequently, Azerbaijans role in regional connectivity projects, such as the East-West and North-South transport corridors, has become increasingly significant.

Azerbaijan, situated at a crucial junction on the West-East route, plays a pivotal role in the critical project of linking China and Europe, two of the world's largest economies. Amid global and regional challenges, including disruptions in the Red and Black Seas and the Suez Canal, the Middle Corridor stands out as the most reliable and efficient connection between Europe and Asia, traversing Central Asia and the Caspian Sea.

A comprehensive plan for the development of the Middle Corridor maritime infrastructure has been adopted for the 2024-2028 period. This plan outlines the establishment of a major maritime transport and logistics cluster centered around the ports of Aktau and Kurik.

The initiative aims to enhance container capacity, expand cargo terminals, and advance international transport logistics. Additionally, it seeks to streamline administrative processes, reducing barriers to efficiency and facilitating smoother operations.

The inaugural trial transit of cargo from China to Europe via the China-Kazakhstan-Azerbaijan-Georgia route through the Kurik and Baku seaports marked a significant milestone.

Currently, dredging operations are underway in the Kurik port waters to ensure safe navigation. These operations are part of a broader initiative to develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) and will address the increasing demand for cargo transport on this route.

The dredging is being conducted with advanced deep drilling equipment provided by the major European company "Jan de Nul." An EPC contract with this company covers all phases from design to completion of the dredging work. These improvements will enhance the terminal's capacity and functionality.

As it stands, Kurik Port has a capacity of 6 million tons (4 million tons for the railway terminal and 2 million tons for the car terminal) and can accommodate up to 250 trucks. Similar enhancement projects are planned for the Aktau port.

In the first seven months of this year, cargo transport through TITR saw a 62 percent increase, reaching 2.5 million tons compared to 1.6 million tons in the same period of 2023.

Azerbaijan is also enhancing its role as an "energy bridge" through a significant collaborative project with Central European countries. Azerbaijan, in partnership with Georgia, Romania, and Hungary, is developing the Caspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe energy corridor. This project aims to export 4 GW of electricity. Additionally, 1 GW of "green energy" is planned to be transported via the Nakhchivan-Turkiye-Europe route.

Another pivotal initiative is the "Digital Silk Way," which aims to transform Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan into key international transport and communication hubs. A major component of this project is the construction of an under-Caspian fiber-optic cable highway, a critical infrastructure that will enhance digital connectivity across the region.

In this context, it is noteworthy that on September 28, 2022, AzerTelecom and Kazakhtelecom signed a memorandum of strategic partnership. This agreement is centered on the ambitious project to lay a fiber-optic communication line across the Caspian Sea, furthering the development of regional digital connectivity.

Azerbaijans strategic location and abundant resources have long positioned it as a crucial link between Europe and Asia. As the Middle Corridor continues to grow in significance, enhanced cooperation with neighboring countries and pivotal infrastructure projects are reinforcing Azerbaijans role as a major logistics and energy hub. Key initiatives, such as the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and the Caspian Sea-Black Sea-Europe energy corridor, showcase Azerbaijans commitment to expanding regional connectivity and facilitating global trade.

The successful trial transit of cargo and ongoing improvements in maritime infrastructure, including dredging projects at Kurik port, underscore the growing capacity and efficiency of the Middle Corridor. Additionally, the establishment of strategic partnerships, such as the agreement between AzerTelecom and Kazakhtelecom, highlights Azerbaijans proactive approach to advancing digital connectivity.

As global and regional dynamics evolve, Azerbaijan is poised to continue its pivotal role in international transport and energy projects, driving economic growth and fostering deeper regional cooperation.

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7 August 2024 10:41 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijani delegation led by Deputy Minister of Energy Orkhan Zeynalov participated in the first meeting of the energy ministers of the Central Asian countries, as well as in the trilateral meeting on the interconnection of the energy systems of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan held in Astana, Azernews reports.

In his remarks, Deputy Minister Orkhan Zeynalov emphasized that the political will of the heads of state to develop partnership relations between the countries opens up great opportunities for deepening bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

He noted that global initiatives and high-level events related to green energy transition and "Central Asia and Azerbaijan Energy Investment Forum" are scheduled to be held within the COP29.

Orkhan Zeynalov also held bilateral meetings with Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Uzbek Minister of Energy, and Yerlan Akkenzhenov, Vice Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan.

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7 August 2024 14:00 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

"If the Kazakhstan-Uzbekistan-Azerbaijan joint project to lay a cable line under the Caspian Sea is successfully completed, Uzbekistan will be positioned to export surplus electricity to Europe starting in 2030".

Uzbekistan's Energy Minister, Jurabek Mirzamahmudov, made this announcement at the inaugural meeting of Central Asian energy ministers held in Astana, Azernews reports.

Mirzamahmudov revealed that by the end of this year, Uzbekistan plans to boost its renewable energy capacity to over 4 GW. Of this capacity, between 2 GW and 5 GW will be exported to Europe, with total export volumes expected to surpass 20 GW by 2030.

The exact amount of electricity exported will depend on the transmission system's capacity and European demand.

The planned route for this electricity involves it traveling from Uzbekistan through Kazakhstan via the Central Asia Common Energy System, then across the Caspian Sea to Azerbaijan. From Azerbaijan, it will pass through Georgia and continue via an underwater cable across the Black Sea to Romania, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

According to Uzbekistans development strategy, the country aims to increase its total generation capacity 2.4 times to 44.9 GW by 2030. Renewable energy sources are expected to make up 40% of this capacity. To achieve this, Uzbekistan will implement solar and wind energy projects with a combined capacity of 18.8 GW (8.6 GW from solar and 10.2 GW from wind).

This initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on May 1 at the Tashkent Investment Forum, where Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan agreed to integrate their energy systems to deliver "green electricity" to Europe.

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7 August 2024 16:02 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Detailed discussions were held with the World Bank on the prospects of joint projects within the framework of the "Green and Sustainable City" concept in Azerbaijan, Anar Guliyev, the Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, shared this on his social media account on "X," Azernews reports.

"We had a productive meeting with Stephanie Stallmeister, the World Bank's Country Manager for Azerbaijan. We exchanged detailed views on the Master Plan of the capital city Baku, the sustainable development directions of the city, and the prospects of joint projects within the framework of the "Green and Sustainable City" concept in Azerbaijan," Guliyev noted.

It should be recalled that the "Master Plan for the Development of Baku City until 2040" was approved by Prime Minister Ali Asadov's decision dated December 30, 2023. The Master Plan was prepared by the German company "AS+P Albert Speer + Partner GmbH," which won the international tender commissioned by the Committee. Local project organization Baku State Design Institute, along with "Ramboll UK" (United Kingdom) and "EY Advisory" (France), were involved in the development of the project, focusing on engineering-communication systems, transportation, and economic aspects.

A total of 93.6 billion manats is planned to be allocated for the implementation of the Master Plan. According to the document, 60.5 billion manats will be provided from the state budget, and the remaining 33.1 billion manats will be contributed by the private sector. By the stated period, 47.6 billion manats will be spent on regional development, with 30.9 billion manats coming from the private sector and 16.7 billion manats from the public sector.

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Dunya Banknn #Azrbaycan uzr olk meneceri Stefani Stalmayster il mhsuldar gorusumuz bas tutdu. Paytaxt #Baknn #BasPlan v shrin dayanql inkisaf istiqamtlri, habel Azrbaycanda "Yasl v Dayanql #Shr" konsepsiyas crcivsind birg layihlrin perspektivlri pic.twitter.com/XUaYtTBFIa  Anar Guliyev (@_anar_guliyev) August 7, 2024

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7 August 2024 17:36 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

"Naftogaz Ukrayiny," the state-owned enterprise responsible for oil and natural gas production, transportation, and processing in Ukraine, has not ruled out the possibility of negotiating gas transit with the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), Azernews reports.

Aleksey Chernyshov, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Naftogaz Ukrayiny, mentioned that the company is currently not in talks with Russia's Gazprom regarding an extension of the transit period.

Chernyshov highlighted that Azerbaijan is a significant producer of natural gas and that potential collaboration with SOCAR offers notable advantages. While Naftogaz Ukrayiny is open to discussions with SOCAR and other companies, no final agreements have been reached. He emphasized that any potential cooperation would require the storage of gas in Ukrainian facilities, and expressed a willingness to accommodate SOCARs gas storage needs.

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7 August 2024 18:12 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

To enhance support for SMEs in the import sector, a new "SME Customs Warehouse" has been established at the "Baku SME House," Azernews reports citing the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (SMBDA).

The warehouse was created through a collaborative effort between the State Customs Committee (SCC) and the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA). This initiative aims to streamline the customs clearance process and accelerate operations for SMEs.

Shahin Bagirov, Chairman of the SCC, and Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of SMBDA, recently visited the facility to observe its operations. Bagirov met with customs officials, logistics companies, and import-export entrepreneurs, discussing relevant issues and ideas. Additionally, the Customs Committee management reviewed the service windows of the SCC located within the International Trade, Development, and Logistics Zone at the "Baku SME House."

The SME Customs Warehouse, covering 1,350 square meters, is designed to facilitate the storage and customs clearance of small-volume goods for SMEs. It provides services for goods arriving via the Baku General Customs Office and Airport.

The International Trade, Development, and Logistics Zone at "Baku SME House" offers a comprehensive range of services, including customs support and logistics solutions, all from a single location. This integration helps import-export entrepreneurs save time and reduce transaction costs.

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7 August 2024 19:50 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

Until the 19th century, there was no state named Armenia or any territory belonging to Armenians in the South Caucasus. All historical sources indicate that present-day Armenia was once part of the Christianization policies implemented by Tsarist Russia in the region. As a result of these policies, there was prolonged ethnic cleansing and genocides committed against Azerbaijanis.

Having adhered to some traditions left by the tsarist Russia, the policy of the former Soviet regime led to the creation of a fabricated Armenian state in the South Caucasus. The city of Yerevan, which is now presented as the capital of Armenia, was once part of Azerbaijani territory.

Using the protection of other states, the Armenian government later set its sights on other Azerbaijani territories. Thus, starting from the 1980s, the Armenian army carried out plans to occupy Azerbaijan's Garabagh. Those provocations and occupation, which continued until 2020, ended with the counteroffensive operations of the Azerbaijani Army. In September 2023, local anti-terror measures neutralized separatist elements trying to create a second so-called "state" in the region that is reflected in the current "Armenian constitution'.

Peace talks between the two countries began for the first time in 30 years. The meeting of foreign ministers in Almaty in May was a significant contribution to the potential peace agreement in the South Caucasus. However, the presence of territorial claims against Azerbaijani land in the Armenian constitution remains a potential threat to the peace process exacerbating already-tense relations between the two countries.

It is worth noting that although there have been several constitutional amendments in Armenia, the articles referencing the unification of Garabagh with Armenia in the Declaration of Independence have not been changed. Last month, on Armenia's Constitution Day, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the country needs a new constitution.

However, after this proposal, protests against Pashinyan's peace-oriented steps increased. Even Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has voiced opinions contrary to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's statements. Since Pashinyan came to power, he has made various remarks about amending the Armenian constitution. On January 19, the Prime Minister had already declared that the country needs a new constitution.

In a comment for Azernews on the issue, Patrick Walsh, an Irish historian and political analyst, said that the Armenian Constitution is very provocative.

"The Armenian Constitution is both provocative and outdated, and an offence to international law and Azerbaijans sovereignty, so it makes it unlikely that a peace settlement can be concluded while Armenia asserts a Constitutional claim on Azerbaijani territory. The articles refer to miatsum and quite obviously this is dead and buried since 2020. In fact, the Yerevan government did not attempt to put the Constitutional claim into action when there was a chance," he added.

The expert commented on Pashinyan's attempts for a new constitution.

"Pashinyan has indicated on a number of occasions he desires a new Constitution for Armenia, but his problem is in bringing this about. He has opposition which will attempt to use the issue against him to bring him down. To copperfasten and make for an enduring treaty settlement with Azerbaijan the Armenian public does need to be brought along with an all-encompassing deal, with a validating referendum.

I would guess that in the end some form of choreography will be worked out as in the 1998 Northern Ireland peace agreement. This would involve a parallel process in which the Armenians have a take it or leave it offer in return for signing up to a comprehensive agreement. The agreement would depend on a referendum deleting the articles and finally ratification of the deal by both Armenia and Azerbaijan in parallel," the historian stressed.

In his comment on the same issue, British expert Neil Watson explained the miastsum concept that Armenia still holds in its ambiguous constitution.

Watson says the concept of miatsum - Armenian claims on the Azerbaijani region of Garabagh written in the preamble to its constitution - is now the major hurdle in achieving a peace treaty, particularly at a time when the negotiations are purely bilateral. In my view, we will see no change to the constitution before a referendum in 2026, but we could see a framework agreement from Armenia that would indicate a genuine plan for a change and this could form the basis for further understanding leading to the striking of a peace treaty before the end of the year," the expert noted.

Furthermore, pro-Armenian forces in the West and Russia have begun to pressure the Pashinyan government and delay peace through various means. It is naturally difficult to say whether Pashinyan has maintained a strong resolve against these protests. For instance, the engagement of a US representative in the army and the European Union's gift of a modest sum of 10 million euros to the Armenian army seem to have diverted Pashinyan from pursuing peace and caused him to avoid meetings in the West-suggested peace platforms.

Currently, there are three main issues obstructing peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia:

1. The Armenian government must provide an official report to Baku regarding the fate of Azerbaijani prisoners and missing persons from the first Garabagh War.

2. The transfer of accurate minefield maps planted in Garabagh to Azerbaijan.

3. The repeal of territorial claims against Azerbaijani land in the Armenian Constitution.

Armenia continues to reject the peace conditions proposed by Azerbaijan, engage in provocations at the border, and increase tensions in the South Caucasus. The resolution of these key issues obstructing peace remains delayed.

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7 August 2024 10:19 (UTC+04:00)

A delegation headed by Vice President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) Ziba Mustafayeva visited the Republic of Uzbekistan, Azernews reports.

The delegation also included Head of the Department of Human Capital Development and Functional Improvement of the SOCAR Head Office Elnur Huseynov, Rector of Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) Elmar Gasimov, and Dean of the Lifelong Learning Department of BHOS Rovshan Budagov.

During the visit, the delegation met with the Rector of the Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology, Prof. Botir Usmanov, and the Institutes faculty. At the meeting, a cooperation agreement was signed between BHOS and the Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology on the implementation of a dual diploma master's program in Chemical Engineering. There was also an exchange of views on the possibility of conducting joint training between the two higher education institutions.

This cooperation will be implemented within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding on joint training of personnel, signed on July 18, 2023, between SOCAR and the Joint-Stock Company Uzbekneftegaz of Uzbekistan, marking a first in Azerbaijans higher education system.

The dual diploma program will involve students from the Tashkent Chemical-Technological Institute, with teaching carried out by Baku Higher Oil School, utilizing academic and technical support.

At a meeting with Kahraman Khakimov, Deputy Chairman for Regime and Personnel Issues of Uzbekneftegaz JSC, the results of the Memorandum of Understanding signed on July 18, 2023, were discussed, including future cooperation areas between the two universities in human capital development and personnel training.

As part of the visit, the SOCAR delegation met with Sadokat Siddikova, Rector of Bukhara Engineering Technological Institute, to discuss the possibility of implementing a dual diploma program in Petroleum Engineering between BHOS and Bukhara Engineering Technological Institute.

The delegation also visited the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Uzbekistan, including the Heydar Aliyev Center.

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7 August 2024 13:38 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

An "Open Door" day is being held at Azerbaijan Technical University (AzTU), affiliated with Turkiye-Azerbaijan University (TAU), Azernews reports.

During this event, prospective students can get answers to all their questions about TAU.

AzTU has announced that the "Open Door" day will continue daily, including weekends, from 09:00 to 18:00. The event takes place at AzTU, Huseyn Javid Avenue, 25.

Turkiye-Azerbaijan University has also begun its student admissions process. From August 9 to 19, applicants can choose from specializations in computer engineering, industrial engineering, and food engineering.

TAU benefits from the expertise of faculty members from Middle East Technical University, Istanbul Technical University, and Hacettepe University in Turkiye, as well as Azerbaijan Technical University (AzTU) in Azerbaijan.

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7 August 2024 14:18 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

Gary Jones, regional president of bp for Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkiye, addressed a letter to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ali Asadov, on the occasion of the completion of the first phase of the seismic research program with new 4-dimensional (4D) high-precision subsea nodes in the Azeri-Chirag-Darsulu Guneshli (ACG) field, Azernews reports.

In the letter, it was emphasized that the project, whose implementation period is 5 years, is the largest seismic data collection program ever implemented by bp in the world.

It was stated that the purpose of the seismic research program is to obtain detailed information about the architecture and fluid contact dynamics of the ACG deposit. It was noted that conducting the research will help ACG partners to effectively optimize the development of the field in the future.

G. Jones reported that the first seismic survey, which began in January 2024, was completed ahead of schedule and with less budget than planned.

The government of Azerbaijan is thanked for supporting this research, which is an important step in securing the future of the ACG field.

At the same time, confidence was expressed that close cooperation between Azerbaijan and BP will continue.

In his reply letter, Prime Minister Ali Asavov highly appreciated the contribution of bp company and all partners to the implementation of this research program, which is the next success story of effective cooperation between the government of Azerbaijan and bp for many years.

Confidence was expressed that the next stages of the aforementioned program will be successfully implemented with joint efforts and will serve to maximize the oil production potential of the ACG field in the future.

It was emphasized that in accordance with the priority tasks set before the government by the President of Azerbaijan, necessary support will be continuously provided to the activities of BP in our country and mutually beneficial cooperation.

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7 August 2024 20:49 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has expressed condolences to relatives and friends of Ismail Berdiyev, the Chairman of the Coordination Center of Muslims of the North Caucasus and the Mufti of the Russian Karachay-Cherkess Republic, Azernews reports.

"I received with deep sorrow the sad news of the passing of Ismail Aliyevich Berdiyev, the Chairman of the Coordination Center of Muslims of the North Caucasus and the Mufti of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic.

Haji Ismail was a great friend of Azerbaijan. He made a significant contribution to the development of friendly and neighborly relations between Azerbaijan and Russia. In recognition of his many years of fruitful work in strengthening friendly ties between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Russia, he was awarded the State Order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Dostlug.

Haji Ismail's extensive spiritual work in promoting religious tolerance and understanding, as well as deepening interfaith and intercivilizational dialogue, earned him deep respect not only within his own country but also beyond its borders.

I fondly remember the meetings and conversations with Haji Ismail, especially our last meeting this past May in Baku. His bright memory will forever remain in our hearts.

I express my sincere condolences and share your pain in this heavy loss. I mourn with you.

May Allah rest his soul in peace!

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 7 August 2024

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7 August 2024 12:58 (UTC+04:00)

Oil and other liquid hydrocarbons production in Azerbaijan is projected to average 610,000 barrels per day this year, consistent with the previous forecast, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA) report from the U.S. Department of Energy, Azernews reports.

The report further indicates that next year's production is expected to be 650,000 barrels per day, which is 10,000 barrels lower than previously predicted.

Additionally, the report highlighted that Azerbaijan's daily production of liquid hydrocarbons was 620,000 barrels last year.

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7 August 2024 18:39 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

Before suspending the import of wheat from abroad, Turkiye increased its purchases from Russia to a maximum of 140.3 million dollars since January this year, Azernews reports.

The Turkish authorities suspended wheat imports from June 21 to October 15. It was noted that this is one of the measures aimed at protecting local producers so that they do not suffer as a result of lower prices for this grain.

In June, Russia increased wheat exports to Turkiye by 11%, to $140.3 million. There was more this year only in January ($145.7 million).

At the same time, at the beginning of summer, Russia remained the only major supplier of this grain to Turkiye: imports from Ukraine, which is traditionally the second of the main exporters, fell eight times to $ 2.1 million.

In general, Turkiye slightly reduced wheat imports in June - by 0.8%, to $ 143.8 million.

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7 August 2024 20:27 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

The United States and Australia have reached agreements this year on the joint production of high-precision GMLRS and PrSM missiles, Azernews reports.

"Together with Australia, we are increasing cooperation in the field of the military-industrial complex. This includes support for the production of guided weapons and explosive ordnance in Australia. By the end of the year, we intend to sign two memoranda of understanding on critical munitions. The first one provides for the start of production of GMLRS missiles for multiple launch rocket systems in Australia by 2025. The second one contributes to the production, technical support and development of a high-precision missile, or PrSM," he said at a press conference in Annapolis (Maryland).

"Together, these efforts will help us provide the capabilities and capabilities that we will need in the coming decades," the Pentagon chief added.

According to him, the United States and Australia will continue to develop military ties with "regional allies and partners, especially with India, Japan and the Philippines."

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7 August 2024 23:29 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

Bulgarian Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov held talks with Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar in Istanbul today on the preparation of an intergovernmental memorandum of understanding in the energy sector, Azernews reports.

The purpose of the memorandum is to create a basis for cooperation in the energy sector between Bulgaria and Turkiye and facilitate the exchange of technical knowledge, skills and experience, the statement said.

The draft document identifies the possibilities of connecting electric and gas networks, renewable energy sources and energy efficiency as key areas of energy cooperation between the two countries.

The ministers agreed that the signing of the memorandum will contribute to the development of interconnections that support the security of energy supplies in the region, the statement said.

At the suggestion of Minister Malinov, the document will be signed in Sofia.

The head of the Bulgarian Energy Ministry also raised the issue of revising the gas agreement between Bulgargaz and Turkish BOTAS to his Turkish counterpart.

Active negotiations on this topic will continue, as BOTAS representatives will visit Bulgaria on August 15 to meet with Bulgargaz, the information says.

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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 second far left member of AOC's radical "Squad" has been defeated by a wide margin this year in a Democrat primary for Congress. First it was Jamaal Bowman of New York, and Tuesday it was Cori Bush of Missouri. Both were notorious for their outspoken support for Hamas and opposition for Isreal, and Bowman was known for his pulling a fire alarm in the Capitol to disrupt a meeting of Congress for which he should have been prosecuted but was not. In both cases, they were defeated by more moderate Democrats, who were well funded by pro-Israel PACs.

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4815387-cori-bush-missouri-washington-kansas-michigan/

https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/campaigns/congressional/3110597/cori-bush-primary-2024-missouri-wesley-bell/

These far left Congresscritters had to face primaries and the voters threw them out. Far left Kamala Harris has never had to face a primary, but the progressive party elites coronated her as Democrat nominee without consulted party primary voters at all and she picked someone even farther left for her running mate. The Democrat nomination process this year is what is REALLY weird.

Rank and file Democrat voters clearly don't want these far out "progressives" but they had no say in the party elite installing just such candidates on the their presidential ticket.
In the 17 days since Kamala Harris was appointed by the Democrat insiders as their presidential candidate, she has refused to hold an unscripted press conference. She has also refused to take questions from the media contingent who fly around with her on Air Force Two. This refusal to interact with the media, even though most of the media is politically in the Democrats hip pocket is astounding and very similar to Biden's hiding in the basement strategy in 2020. Biden used Covid as an excuse. Kamala does not have an excuse.

Trump Force Two and Air Force Two were both on the ground in Wisconsin at the same airport. J.D. Vance took the opportunity to walk across the tarmac to Kamala's plane. He told the media he was curious to see it since it may be his plance in a few months. Knowing that Kamala was refusing to talk to the media on that plane or elsewhere except when she was on the teleprompter, Vance then told Kamala's media followers that he would be happy to answer any questions they had. That was such a great contrast to closed-mouth Kamala.

If Kamala cannot even have the confidence to handle a mostly supportive media gaggle, how is she possibly qualified to run the country?

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/08/fireworks-jd-vance-marches-reporters-front-air-force/
As the shortage of anesthesia providers continues to weigh on healthcare, ASCs are finding new ways to combat the shortage.

The shortage is aggravated by supply and demand issues. The demand for anesthetized procedures is increasing in tandem with an aging population and greater prevalence of health issues. On the supply side, nearly 30% of anesthesiologists are projected to leave the practice by 2033, according to a 2023 white paper from Medicus Healthcare Solutions. Currently, the ratio of anesthesiologists to people is over 7,700-to-1 in the U.S, while over 17% of current providers are nearing retirement and over 56% are over 55.

"We cannot solve this just by throwing money at it," Rafael Cartagena, MD and CEO of North American Partners in Anesthesia said in a sponsored roundtable discussion at Becker's Hospital Review's 13th Annual Meeting in 2023.

"Professionals under 40 are looking for a different type of work-life balance than the baby boomers they're replacing," he added. "The mismatch in supply and demand means compensation is going up dramatically, but as pay increases, more professionals are choosing to just work less."

Burnout is also a major factor among providers in the industry. Over 50% of anesthesiologists said they felt burnt out or both burnt out and depressed, according to a 2024 Medscape survey.

To respond, participants at the NAPA roundtable said leaders should create clinical staffing models that have more flexibility and allow for the sort of work-life balance that newer physicians are seeking. From there, the newfound flexibility could translate into new pathways for providers  especially in larger systems where opportunities exist to work among ambulatory, hospital and office settings.

Furthermore, creating more professional opportunities for growth within anesthesiology can both attract new providers to the specialty and encourage existing providers to stay and advance within an organization.

This could prove especially important for rural systems that rely more heavily on CRNAs for their anesthesia coverage. An estimated 30,200 new advanced practice registered nurses will need to be enrolled in master's and doctoral programs each year through 2031 to meet the increasing need for anesthesia coverage.

Utilizing staff in more creative and efficient ways could also relieve pressure on facilities feeling the stress of the shortage. During the 2023 roundtable, providers discussed creative staffing techniques like having teams of anesthesiologists and CRNAs use virtual operating rooms to manage multiple procedure rooms at once.
The ASC industry is historically fragmented, but one company seeing skyrocketing growth in the last five years through consolidation.

With 7.1% of national ASC market share, Dallas-based United Surgical Partners International, owned by Tenet Healthcare, is the largest ASC chain in the U.S. The company has a portfolio of 520 ASCs and 24 surgical hospitals spanning 38 states.

USPI far outpaces the next largest ASC chain, SCA Health, which Optum acquired for $2.3 billion in 2017. SCA Health has grown from 186 ASCs in 2019 to 320 in 2023.

USPI has made massive moves so far in 2024. In the first quarter, USPI quietly purchased ASC chain Covenant Physician Partners, after Covenant's private equity owner, KKR, paid off lenders to avoid a distressed debt exchange. Nashville, Tenn.-based Covenant Physician Partners was acquired by KKR in 2017 and operates more than 80 locations across 17 states.

Tenet also added 56 ASCs in 2024, and sold more than nine hospitals for proceeds of $4 billion to invest in the ambulatory space. Most recently, Tenet agreed to sell its majority interest in Birmingham, Ala.-based Brookwood Baptist Health to Orlando (Fla.) Health.

In 2023, it added 31 ASCs for $149 million  nine of which were acquired and 11 were previously unconsolidated centers in which USPI inked controlling ownership interest.

USPI has grown nearly 155% since 2011, when it had 204 ASCs in its portfolio. It was acquired by Tenet in 2015 for $425 million and by the end of 2019, USPI overtook AmSurg as the largest ASC chain in the U.S., ending the year with 264 facilities compared withAmSurg's 258.

USPI is the driving factor of parent Tenet Healthcare's growth. Tenet's top capital priority "remains the expansion of low-cost, high-quality ambulatory surgical centers for the communities around the country," said CEO Saum Sutaria, MD, in a second quarter earnings call.

As Tenet rapidly reorganizes its portfolio, it will take a "disciplined approach" to improving patient care and physician performance in ASCs' "fragmented" marketplace, Dr. Sutaria added.
In the last eight months, the field of gastroenterology has seen significant and sizable healthcare developments, spanning clinical developments, technological progress, policy changes and leadership appointments.

Here is an overview of developments that have transformed gastroenterology in 2024.

Clinical developments

 The FDA approved a new, noninvasive screening test for colorectal cancer created by Palo Alto, Calif.-based Guardant Health that requires only a blood sample. The test can find most cancers when they are early stage and usually curable.

 Medtronic's PillCam Genius SB capsule endoscopy kit, a single-use endoscopy system, was approved by the FDA.

 The endoscopy team at UC Davis Health in Sacramento, Calif., completed the world's first endoscopic, ultrasound-guided core biopsy of a pancreatic tumor using the EndoDrill GI device.

Technology

 Artificial intelligence may be able to reach underserved populations by re-engaging individuals who previously missed or avoided an appointment. After researchers used an AI tool to reengage 2,400 patients who missed colonoscopies, 58% engaged with the AI accepted a transfer to a staff member to reschedule their appointments; and 25% of patients completed their colonoscopy screening.

 The American Society for Gastroenterology and Endoscopy launched an AI institute for gastroenterology to enhance patient care outcomes and drive innovation.

Leadership

 Rochester, Minn.-based Mayo Clinic was named the best hospital for gastroenterology and GI surgery in 2024 by U.S. News & World Report.

 Gastroenterologist Maria Abreu, MD, was appointed the 119th president of the American Gastroenterological Association.

Policy

 CMS is floating several changes to colorectal cancer screening policy in its proposed payment system for 2025. The changes include updating the policy for covered colorectal screenings, expanding their complete CRC screening approach to include either a Medicare-covered, blood-based biomarker test or a noninvasive stool-based test, and removing the age-appropriate screening colonoscopy measure from the merit-based incentive program.

 The Illinois Senate unanimously passed a bill that will require insurance companies in the state to cover all colonoscopies deemed medically necessary.

Payers

 Two studies point to free colonoscopies, which are now covered under CMS provisions from 2023, as having improved health outcomes and saved both Medicare and private payers thousands despite paying for more patients to receive screenings and follow-up colonoscopies if needed. Medicare and private payers may save as much as $4,700 and $6,400 per patient, respectively, who receives a free follow-up colonoscopy following positive screenings results.

Research

 A study determined that patients with early-onset colorectal cancer do not require more frequent colonoscopy surveillance than recommended by current guidelines compared with patients with average-onset colorectal cancer.

 An American Journal of Gastroenterology study found that patients with adequate bowel preparation before colonoscopy see an increase in both accuracy and safety for the procedure, but a new study found that patients taking glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists may have a significantly lower quality of bowel preparation.

 Another study suggested the recommended 10-year interval between screening colonoscopies may be safely extended to 15 years in adults with no family history of colorectal cancer whose first colonoscopy is negative.
Kettering (Ohio) Health has received pushback from the city of Xenia, Ohio, after sharing plans to replace its Greene Memorial Hospital and invest $44 million into a new facility  Kettering Health Xenia.

"The city does not support this approach and sees this move for what it isa further reduction in services that will force our residents to seek basic healthcare outside of Greene County and displace current Greene Memorial Hospital employees," Brent Merriman, city manager of Xenia, said in an Aug. 6 statement shared with Becker's.

The pushback comes after Xenia city officials initially proposed to acquire Greene Memorial Hospital from Kettering Health after claims that the health system had cut services and drained the hospital's resources over the last decade.

Mr. Merriman said that the replacement hospital will also discourage healthcare market competition and negatively affect care access in the community.

Kettering Health Xenia will feature a Kettering Health breast evaluation center, imaging services and programs to support emergency care and a full-service emergency room. It is expected to take 24 months to complete.

Kettering Health did not have a comment for Becker's at this time.
Phoenix Children's opened a $195 million hospital at its Arrowhead campus in Glendale, Ariz., Aug. 7.

The pediatric health system anticipates treating up to 72,000 patients annually at the new, 175,000-square-foot facility, according to a news release sent to Becker's. The hospital features 24 inpatient beds, an emergency department with 30 beds, six operating rooms, an onsite lab and imaging services. By early next year, the hospital plans to expand to 48 inpatient beds.

Last November, the health system opened a multispecialty clinic on the campus, with the new hospital marking the completion of the Phoenix Children's Hospital - Avondale Campus.

The campus is roughly 30 miles Northwest of Phoenix Children's Hospital.

"Our expansion plans in the West Valley have been decades in the making," Robert Meyer, president and CEO of the health system, said in a news release. "Today's opening is the culmination of years of effort to build a comprehensive campus that  ensures West Valley families can access the care they need, much closer to home."

Meanwhile, construction is underway for a new hospital at Phoenix Children's Hospital - East Valley campus, which is slated to open next year.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Christopher Lopez approved an emergency motion filed by Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey's administration to provide Dallas-based Steward Health Care with $30 million in an Aug. 6 hearing.

"[There's] plenty of work to get done, but today is an important day to allow the hospitals to get much needed funding, and to have the certainty of receiving that funding," Mr. Lopez said during the hearing, attended by Becker's.

The payments, to be disbursed in two installments, are exclusively to fund operations at Steward's Massachusetts hospitals. The first will come on or around Aug. 9 at $11.3 million. The second will be on or around Aug. 16 at $18.7 million, according to court documents.

"The payment agreement represents the commonwealth's continued commitment to achieving the transition of these six remaining facilities to new operators," Hugh McDonald, lawyer for the commonwealth of Massachusetts and Executive Office of Health and Human Services, said during the hearing. "The parties have been working very hard over the past week not only to advance this document and the other documents, but all the sale documents."

Steward representative David Cohen also said key stakeholders in Steward's Chapter 11 bankruptcy case were able to attend meetings and resolve multiple issues regarding the funding and sale of Steward's remaining Massachusetts hospitals.

One includes Steward landlord Medical Properties Trust and its partner Macquarie Infrastructure Partners handing over Steward's Massachusetts hospitals to New York City-based Apollo Global Management, a global alternative asset manager. Mr. Cohen said that the goal of the handover is to "help facilitate the sale of such real property to the new operators."

The for-profit health system received approval from Mr. Lopez to close two of its Massachusetts hospitals, Boston-based Carney Hospital and Ayer-based Nashoba Valley Medical Center, by Aug. 31 in a July 31 hearing. Mr. Lopez also approved a request from Steward allowing new hospital buyers to negotiate new leases with each Massachusetts hospitals' landlord.

"There is still work to do in terms of finalizing the purchase agreements, but both the debtors [Steward] and the commonwealth believe that significant progress is being made," Mr. Cohen said.

Mr. Cohen also shared that there is heavy interest in Steward's physician group, Stewardship Health, after UnitedHealth Group's Optum scrapped plans to acquire the physician group in late June.

"We're very encouraged by the bids and how the bidding process is playing out," he said. "We do expect to announce a winner very soon and proceed towards a hearing next week to approve the sale of the physician group to the winning bidder."






The nation's largest children's hospital is laying off approximately 1,000 employees, including front-line healthcare workers and those in leadership positions, The Houston Chronicle reported Aug. 6.

In all, Houston-based Texas Children's Hospital is laying off 5% of its workforce. While the hospital did not confirm exact numbers, Linda Aldred, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at Texas Children's, told the news outlet that the organization has around 20,000 employees across 120 locations across Texas and globally, most of which are in Houston. A 5% reduction equates to roughly 1,000 jobs.

"This has been so challenging and so difficult for us to get here," she told the Chronicle. "We have been really thoughtful about it  and we do not plan to have additional job cuts or job eliminations." Texas Children's declined to answer Becker's questions surrounding when the layoffs are effective and which patient facing roles and leadership positions are affected.

Declining patient volumes and a two-week delay in the opening of a new, $450 million campus in Austin contributed to a nearly $200 million operating income loss through the first six months of the current fiscal year, according to Ms. Aldred.

The layoffs come after Texas Children's took a series of other steps to mitigate financial challenges, including reducing the size of its executive leadership team by about 10% and cutting their pay, she added. Over the past six to nine months, Texas Children's has trimmed the size of its executive team by not filling vacant positions. Responsibilities for vacant positions were assigned to other executives, who will see lower levels of compensation this year.

Ms. Aldred said some employees will be eligible to reapply for different roles within the organization. The hospital also plans to organize an employee support center to assist those affected with their job search.

Meanwhile, Texas Children's Health Plan is facing major potential changes if the state moves forward with plans to remove it as a Medicaid administrator and award contracts to new Medicaid providers. The health plan serves around 450,000 members.
The gap between hospitals with strong and weak margins is growing, according to Kaufman Hall, and the top hospitals are vigilant about evaluating their physician strategies.

"Data from the National Hospital Flash Report show that not all hospitals are generating losses; higher performing organizations are carefully reviewing their employed physician portfolios with a focus on profitable service lines and are more effective at deploying advanced practice providers," stated the research firm in the second quarter Physician Flash Report, released Aug. 5.

The report surveys more than 200,000 employed physicians and advanced practice providers in 100-plus specialties to determine average provider productivity and financial investments. The median net patient revenue per full-time employed provider was up 4% year over year to $389,040 for the second quarter.

Additional key performance metrics include:

1. Physician work relative value unit per FTE: 6% increase to 6,095

2. Physician compensation per FTE up 3% to $367,053

3. Support staff per 10,000 provider wRVUs dropped 5% to 3.10

4. Investment or subsidy per physician was up 3% to $299,937

Kaufman Hall recommended hospital leaders examine their employed physician portfolio regularly to identify practices most important to the health system's long-term sustainability and ensure they're using APPs appropriately.

"Organizations can review operational and financial data to assess the effectiveness of APP integration efforts," according to the report. "APPs that assume leadership positions can help shape and execute strategies for building team-based models of care."

Labor expenses as a percent of total expenses rose slightly to 83.9% for the second quarter of 2024, from 82.8% over the same period last year.

Striking the right balance of physicians and APPs isn't easy. Nicholas Nussbaum, MD, director of medical affairs and community services at Adams Medical Group, part of Adams Health Network in Decatur, Ind., recently told Becker's that hospitals can't treat the two groups as interchangeable parts.

"Too many organizations look at who is retiring, relocating, etc., and start immediately recruiting for the like/same in a replacement, at least in regard to credentials, instead of looking at the work that provider was doing and assessing who, and with what credentials, would be best suited to do that same work going forward," Dr. Nussbaum said.

He also noted the question of "how many" providers to bring in after an exit is "almost universally overlooked" since the right number often isn't a one-for-one replacement. Changes in training, scope of practice and structure between even physicians of different generations, as well as APPs, could mean different expectations in shift length, call structure, clinic duration and more.

"Accounting for these differences, or failing to do so, has been a significant challenge at the organizational level for everyone across the country, regardless of size or geography," said Dr. Nussbaum. "Add in the ongoing battles/fluctuations in scope and licensure for APPs, and it becomes clear that assessing what works needs [to be] done is probably less than half the battle when deciding who/how many providers to hire."
Scott Schissel, MD, PhD, is joining RWJBarnabas Health as chief medical officer of Newark (N.J.) Beth Israel Medical Center, according to an Aug. 7 news release sent to Becker's.

He joins the West Orange, N.J.-based health system from Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital in Boston, where he served as CMO, chief of the department of medicine and vice president of medical affairs. Dr. Schiessel has spent more than 14 years in healthcare leadership positions. He is a board-certified pulmonary and critical care medicine physician.

Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is a 665-bed teaching hospital.
Dean Sanpei was named senior vice president and chief strategy officer of Springfield, Mass.-based Baystate Health.

Mr. Sanpei brings two decades of experience to the role, according to an Aug. 6 news release shared with Becker's.

Most recently, he served as chief strategy officer at Centennial, Colo-based Centura Health, a joint venture Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health shared with Altamonte Springs, Fla.-based AdventHealth. In 2023, CommonSpirit and AdventHealth ended their partnership, and 20 Centura hospitals folded into CommonSpirit.

Before joining Centura, Mr. Sanpei worked in strategy for Salt Lake City-based Intermountain Health. He also served as a member of the Utah House of Representatives from 2010 to 2017.

Baystate Health is a five-hospital system with about 13,000 employees.
Recently, the recommended screening age for two cancers dropped, which could impact oncologist workloads.

In March, the Prostate Cancer Foundation released new guidelines for prostate-specific antigen-based screening in Black men, recommending screening to start between ages 40 and 45 and continue until age 70.

In May, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the age for breast cancer screenings for women with an average risk from 50 to 40.

These guideline changes  along with a nationwide push to increase screening among adults, and the release of new screening tools like blood tests  have changed the burden on oncologists and the healthcare system.

The short-term impact

The number of screenings will increase patient loads in the short-term, leaders told Becker's. That burden will be distributed across the medical ecosystem and several specialties, including primary care, radiologists, gastroenterologists, pulmonologists and others, can expect to see higher patient loads, Steven Artandi, MD, PhD, director of the Stanford (Calif.) Cancer Institute, told Becker's.

"There may be a modest effect on the oncology workforce, but for the entire medical system, there's going to be additional work to follow up on the test results of these screening tests," Dr. Artandi said.

For oncologists specifically, patient loads are also predicted to go up  but some leaders are excited about that prospect.

"This will change the field, allowing oncologists to help patients by detecting more cancers at a curable stage," Chris Flowers, MD, division head of cancer medicine at University of Texas's MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, told Becker's. "Overall, this will be good for patients and oncologists."

The point of expanding screening programs is to identify patients earlier and treat them sooner, David Rivadeneira, MD, physician-in-chief of clinical strategic initiatives for eastern Long Island at New York City-based Northwell Health and director of Northwell Health Cancer Institute at Huntington (N.Y.), told Becker's. Catching cancers earlier could prevent the need for chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

Dr. Artandi said his system is already seeing the benefits of early detection.

"Anecdotally, we are seeing patients who have had the blood tests for cancer through liquid biopsy," he said. "We're also seeing patients now who are getting whole body MRIs. Both of these techniques are finding cancers that would otherwise not be found until later."

Although, in the short-term, increased screenings create more work for oncologists and the rest of the medical ecosystem, leaders predict these changes will reduce burnout and workload for physicians long term.

The long-term gains

Patients who discover their disease at the pre-cancerous or early stages will have a better prognosis and require less chemotherapy and radiation.

"In the long run, this will lead to less burnout for physicians because oncologists will see fewer advanced-stage cancers. That, I think, is the bigger picture," Dr. Rivadeneira told Becker's.

The shift to more screenings could also change the way cancer care is delivered. More targeted treatments may be used for early stage cancers, and may not involve the same drugs historically given to cancer patients, meaning that patients could experience less toxic side effects, Dr. Flowers said.

Cancer mortality is also expected to decline as shifts in care continue. However, this could lead to a different issue: more cancer survivors needing care.

"Cancer survivorship is a challenge for the system," Dr. Artandi said. "The question is, how do we manage cancer survivorship most effectively for the patients? It can't fall entirely on the oncologists, because they are dealing with many new cases and active cases. It depends on the cancer, the circumstances of patients, and the risk of recurrence to determine the extent to which the oncologist manages that survivor versus the entire health system and the primary care physician."

Compounding the growing need for cancer survivorship is a decrease in the number of oncologists.

"There is an oncologist workforce crisis," Sara Jo Grethlein, MD, executive director of the Swedish Cancer Institute in Seattle, told Becker's. "About 20% to 22% of currently practicing medical oncologists are 65 or older. The number of people graduating from fellowships has decreased, while the need for cancer care is rising."

Stanford is addressing this crisis by providing a mixed-care model that leverages oncologists and its primary care network.

At Swedish Cancer Institute, advanced practice clinicians are undergoing additional education and training so they can practice at the top of their license within cancer care.

"We are working to create those opportunities to enhance their skills and comfort with care across the spectrum," Dr. Grethlein said. "We want to support our APC colleagues in partnering with us to provide excellence in care."
New York City-based NYU Langone Health has named Gary Deutsch, MD, chief of the surgical oncology division at NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine.

Dr. Deutsh will also serve as director of the Robotic Surgical Oncology Program at NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island and as a professor at NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, according to an Aug. 6 news release from the health system.



He was part of the first team to perform a robotic prophylactic bilateral mastectomy in the U.S. and comes to NYU Langone from New Hyde Park, N.Y.-based Northwell Health.
National rankings offer patients valuable insights into a health system's care quality, outcomes and performance, helping them make informed choices. But to what extent do these ratings influence health systems' strategies and conversations surrounding quality?

Becker's recently spoke with physician executives from four health systems to understand how they view national rankings, communicate them to their teams and whether they tailor their quality strategies around them.

Many leaders said they place more weight on national benchmarking data from private third-party organizations due to the retrospective nature of national rankings such as Leapfrog's safety grades, CMS' Overall Hospital Star Ratings or U.S. News & World Report's best hospitals. Leaders also emphasized the importance of keeping staff focused on high-reliability principles and their core purpose of serving patients, noting that strong ratings will naturally follow.

Editor's note: Responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

Andy Anderson, MD. Executive Vice President and Chief Medical and Quality Officer at RWJBarnabas Health (West Orange, N.J.): The most important perspective is our patients and communities, and making sure that we provide the best possible outcomes. The national rankings and ratings reflect that for the most part, so there's pretty good alignment there. We tend to look at Leapfrog, CMS stars and U.S. News because they all have a slightly different focus and there's actually quite a bit of alignment underneath. For example, HCAHPS is included in the methodologies for all three. For us, Leapfrog is more about safety, CMS stars are more about quality, and U.S. News is a bit more about service lines and tertiary quaternary centers of excellence. All three show up in the newspapers and align with things that are very important to patients, such as their experience, safety and outcomes. Our day-to-day work is more focused on those outcomes and monitoring and making sure we have tactics in place to improve them, and then doing continuous quality improvement around those tactics.

The messaging that I tend to use [with staff] is that the national ratings will follow as we make these improvements. We do have aspirational goals. We want to have straight A's from Leapfrog. We want to be four and five stars with CMS. We want to be ranked in the top 50 with U.S. News. Those are part of the plan, but we've been purposely communicating that it takes time to get from here to there. Focusing on things like mortality and HCAHPS are really powerful levers that are going to get us there.

Phillip Chang, MD. Senior Vice President and Chief Medical and Quality Officer of Memorial Hermann Health System (Houston): We review all of them and educate ourselves on the key ones as much as possible and allowable. These include data from federal and state programs, common ones like Leapfrog and U.S. News, along with private third-party rankings. Some of it is obviously very retrospective.



We look at all of them, and we make a determination of all the literally hundreds of measures, what's important to us? From there, we design our own quality scorecards. Because we're so large and complex, we've got one for the traditional hospital space. We have one for various service lines. We're building one for post-acute rehab and for the children's hospital. I think the goal is, once we fully convert to Epic and everybody takes a breath, we'll also have a balanced scorecard for the ambulatory space. The scorecards are set once a year, and we look at last year's data for goal setting. We have a dozen-plus measures that we've identified as the most important.



We do rely very heavily on a third-party clinical database, because the benchmark data we get back from it is the closest to real time. We don't set a specific number across the entire system. We want to look at every campus  and in the future, maybe every unit  to see how they perform currently and set a target that is better. And then we take another step further and we look at where that hospital is compared to national benchmarking. So that's our strategy right now. It' a lot of work, but it's worth it.

Peggy Duggan, MD. Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Tampa (Fla.) General Hospital: One of the challenges [in tailoring your quality strategy around certain rankings or ratings] is there's a lot of delay in the data. So you have a hard time knowing if the activity you are undertaking today is going to impact the score you're trying to reach in two years. With certain rating or scoring groups, even the components can be in different time frames. Every single rating also has different components, which then can have you chasing a lot of things rather than doing the right work.

At Tampa General, we use a quality database of large academic health systems as our North Star because we can actually see the most current data and our impact when we start an initiative. You need to know your data and parse it down to ensure the work is doable. We can say we want to improve our rankings by a certain amount, and that's the systemwide goal. But how you get there is like 1,000 little projects, and you have to cascade that down. You need enough data literacy within the organization so that people can understand the data and see the impact of their work.

We are also on a high-reliability journey as a way to drive quality for the right reasons. For clinicians, the why is always going to be improving patient care. They're not going to be so interested in rankings or scores as much as doing the right thing for our patients. Tampa General Hospital is the first academic health system to receive two qualifications for its collaborative just culture program and reliability management team. Our goal is to be the first academic health system in the country that's certified as a Collaborative High Reliability Organization by DNV. We really believe our front line is our best defense from any kind of issues  operational challenges, patient safety issues, quality issues  so we really want to activate our front-line staff so that they can be driving the quality changes that lead to the best outcomes for our patients. That will drive all the right scoring as time goes on.

Wayne Lipson, MD. Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare (Memphis, Tenn.): We use national benchmarks, rankings and ratings to monitor, track, measure and hold ourselves accountable. We like to use the national benchmark because it normalizes the data to give a true representation of how we compare to other high-performing healthcare providers. We use it to measure timeliness and efficiency, to give us the greatest potential for growth, but also sustainability, because we can have growth, but if we don't sustain the gains, then we haven't done much to help improve our patient care.

Methodist as an organization outpaces our local competitors in quality and safety. We look to industry standards for excellence. But what's really great about Methodist LeBonheur is that we look outside healthcare to find best practices across multiple industries. For example, we model ourselves after high-reliability organizations within the airline or nuclear power industry. Our goal at the end of the day is to be top-ranking for all types of care we provide across all our service lines. And we strive to be top decile as an organization. That's considered lofty, but we feel that that is what our patients deserve and, frankly, expect.

Our associates from all disciplines go the extra mile for patients and families. For us, the mile isn't even extra. It's who we are. It's carved into our philosophy and culture and the fiber of who we are as an organization. We're not going to invest our time and energy into these things simply because we get honors and recognition  this is to ensure we meet the mark every time.
Morrisville, Vt.-based Copley Hospital is turning to its new orthopedic medical office in Waterbury, Vt., to grow profits after facing a $3 million budget shortfall earlier this year, according to an Aug. 6 report from CBS affiliate WCAX.

Copley Hospital broke ground on the 10,000-square-foot orthopedic facility in October.

The Vermont hospital has faced a serious decline in financial health and is forecast to operate at an almost 6% negative operating margin in 2028, the report said.

The Green Mountain Care Board, which heard a plea from the hospital to allow it to raise its commercial rates midyear, suggested Copley turn to more profitable specialties, including orthopedics.

Currently, Copley's waiting list for an orthopedic appointment is several weeks to months long, as the hospital has only two providers.

At the new office, Copley will be able to provide more accessibility to patients in the area, with five to six providers per day, according to the report.
A Belfast branch of Carpetright has been rescued from closure after a deal from another retailer was made to save 19 stores.

Carpetright, which is one of the UKs largest carpet retailers fell into administration on Monday July 22, with financial services firm PwC appointed to oversee the process with completed a sale of 54 stores and two logistics hubs to CWHP Ltd, part of the Tapi Group.

The transaction included the transfer of 308 employees, but the companys two sites here  in Belfast and Newtownabbey  were not included in the list of stores making up the sale.

However, its now been confirmed the Belfast location will be saved by bed retailer Bensons for Beds.

Bensons for Beds has said it will save 19 of the more than 200 remaining stores Carpetright confirmed would shut their doors for good.

The Newtownabbey location is not listed as a site set to be taken over by the retailer.

Founded in 1988, Carpetright has operated across the UK and Ireland, with its headquarters in Purfleet, Essex. Before the sale, it boasted 273 stores and 1,898 employees.

Other locations of Carpetright set to be taken over by Bensons can be found here.
Abdelkader Al Alloush, shop owner on Donegall Road after another night of rioting and looting in Sandy Row

Leading business organisations in Northern Ireland have condemned the mindless thuggery of intolerable racist attacks and unrest in Belfast.

The CBI, NI Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors, Manufacturing NI and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions issued a statement through the Labour Relations Agency.

Gordon Milligan, chairman of the LRA, said: We utterly condemn the racist attacks and civil unrest that has been taking place in Belfast.

"It is completely unacceptable that businesses and their employees are being attacked and livelihoods ruined.

"We call on everyone in society to do all they can to defuse the situation before more people get hurt and Northern Irelands reputation as a good place to work and do business is damaged.

Gerry Murphy, ICTU assistant secretary, said: The trade union movement stands in solidarity with all workers and their friends and families who have been attacked or feel threatened by these racist attacks.

"We demand an immediate end to this mindless thuggery. Everyone has a right to live and work in peace, without fear about their safety at home, at work, or in the community. I welcome the support from business and employers condemnation of this intolerable situation.

Both the business and trade union representative bodies reaffirmed their commitments as set out in the Joint Declaration of Protection for Dignity at Work and Inclusive Working Environment agreed in 2017.

Alan Lowry, FSBs Northern Ireland policy chair, expressed the organisations disgust. The scenes of destruction and hideous attacks on businesses in Belfast are a disgrace. There is absolutely no excuse for it.

"The intimidation, racist attacks and assaults on police are utterly contemptible and should be condemned.

Business owners and their employees should be able to operate free from threats and intimidation, sustaining jobs and breathing life into town and city centre economies.

"It is disgusting to see what happened to some of the businesses in Belfast which have been devastated by rioting and arson attacks, and their owners left questioning whether they can even go on. All right-thinking people will stand in solidarity with those business owners.

The entrepreneurs who start these and other businesses have already faced myriad challenges over recent years and the last thing Northern Ireland needs is to see more obstacles put in their way, bringing negative headlines as we seek to grow the economy and bring more jobs to Belfast and across the country.
Pictured (from l to r) Jemma Catterson, Ian Lowry, Jennifer Morgan, Kenny Bickerstaff, Ivor Sampson, Mark Browne, Department of Education (DE) Permanent Secretary, Heather Cousins and Suzanne Kingon

The 375m construction contract for the Strule Shared Education Campus in Omagh has been signed off, the Department of Education confirmed on Wednesday.

They said building of what is Northern Irelands biggest ever education construction project will be done by Woodvale Lowry Joint Venture Ltd, as the minister Paul Givan called it a momentous day.

The Strule Shared Education Campus in Omagh will bring together six schools from across the community, and incorporate grammar, non-selective and special school provision on the former Lisanelly Army Barracks.

It will involve over 4,000 children and young people from all backgrounds coming together to learn on the campus.

Commenting on the contract award, Mr Givan said: This is a momentous day for the Strule Programme. Any uncertainty is now over and I am delighted to deliver on this huge investment for the young people of Omagh.

"Strule will be the largest education construction project ever delivered in Northern Ireland and will bring a huge boost to the local economy. It represents a massive capital investment in the west of Northern Ireland and will stimulate further development and regeneration of the region.

I am delighted we have reached this key milestone in the delivery of this iconic and unique shared education campus. The Strule project will be an education campus of world and international renown and a flagship for the shared society we are aiming to develop.

The schools involved are Arvalee School and Resource Centre, Christian Brothers Grammar School, Loreto Grammar School, Omagh Academy Grammar School, Omagh High School, and Sacred Heart College.

Arvalee Special School has already been constructed on the Strule site, with BBC NI reporting in December that over 44.4m has been spent on it, a new road scheme and site preparation work.

The project has been previously beset by delays and earlier this year, its cost was reported to have soared.

Construction is set to begin later this year.
Mo Chara, DJ Provai and Moglai Bap aka Kneecap at their Belfast Premiere at the Kennedy Centre in Belfast on August 6th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Mo Chara, DJ Provai and Moglai Bap aka Kneecap with Gerry Adams at their Belfast Premiere at the Kennedy Centre in Belfast on August 6th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Mo Chara, DJ Provai and Moglai Bap aka Kneecap at their Belfast Premiere at the Kennedy Centre in Belfast on August 6th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

West Belfast hip hop trio Kneecap have never shied away from making a scene, and they did just that at the Belfast premiere of their first film.

The band arrived in style at the Omniplex Cinema at the Kennedy Centre tonight - in the back of a Land Rover emblazoned with a fake confidential police tip line on its side.

They were soon on top of the vehicle and one of the group, DJ Provai (JJ O Dochartaigh), set off orange and green flares for the benefit of the cameras, before the band had their picture taken with former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams.

Directed by former journalist Rich Peppiatt, the film sees DJ Provai, Mo Chara (Liam Og O hAnnaidh) and Moglai Bap (Naoise O Caireallain). play themselves in their acting debuts, alongside Hollywood star Michael Fassbender.

Mo Chara, DJ Provai and Moglai Bap aka Kneecap with Gerry Adams at their Belfast Premiere at the Kennedy Centre in Belfast on August 6th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Kneecap is set in west Belfast in 2019 and tells a semi-fictionalised account of how the band came to be. The film then sees the group become the unlikely faces of a civil rights movement to save their native language.

To date, the film has garnered rave reviews, awards and has even been chosen as the Irish submission for best international feature at the Oscars next year.

"It's sickening" - Kneecap react to anti-immigration riots in Belfast

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Speaking from the red carpet, Moglai Bap said the reaction to the movie so far has been insane.

Weve been to LA, San Francisco, but when we made this movie we just had Belfast and Ireland in mind, he said. If people from outside Ireland are interested in it then thats a bonus.

Being a film in the Irish language, many feel its success will spurn others on to learn Irish.

You can see here theres been a big upsurge in people wanting to go out and learn [Irish], not just from one side of the community but from both sides Its a language for everybody, DJ Provai said.

Kneecap | Official Trailer

The group said that while they were in the US they met people from other countries who were encouraged by the film to learn their own indigenous languages.

Given its the trios first real acting experience, one could be forgiven for thinking it may have found it difficult to learn the craft  but they had the benefit of playing themselves in the film.

Moglai Bap quipped: Its the role we were born to play.

Mo Chara, DJ Provai and Moglai Bap aka Kneecap at their Belfast Premiere at the Kennedy Centre in Belfast on August 6th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

He added: But we did acting classes for six months. But since weve always been performing on stage, that helped.

Kneecaps songs often touch on societal issues in their lyrics. The band were asked, especially given that Belfast is very much at the heart of the film, what they make of the disorder in the city in recent days.

Its sickening. I dont think it represents what Belfast stands for, said Moglai.

Some people are going out rioting, but then later they might order a kebab or Indian food, or go to the hospital and receive care from a person of colour. Its just out and out racism. We hope people can come together as a community and support the shops and businesses [that have been impacted].

DJ Provai said people have short memories.

When the Irish went abroad years ago they were treated in the same way, he added.

Director Rich Peppiatt said in the beginning he had simply set out to make a film about Belfast Irish speakers and could never have imagined the traction and acclaim the movie has received.

The fact that it has travelled the way it has and resonated with people around the world is something way beyond what we expected, he said.
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.
Racial violence has flared on the streets of Belfast in recent days. Photo: Kevin Scott

A 15-year-old boy wrapped in a Union flag was allegedly among rioters who pushed towards a hostel as racial violence flared on the streets of Belfast, a court heard today.

Police claimed the youth was with some of those most heavily involved in attacks on ethnic hospitality and business premises during the worst disorder the city has experienced in years.
An on-the-run police killer, who argued that he was facing an "extreme and draconian" sentencing regime if he was sent back to prison in Northern Ireland, has consented to his surrender, Dublins High Court has heard.
A Belfast city centre business has announced it has closed its doors early amid concerns for the welfare of its employees ahead of planned anti-immigration protests.

In a statement, Danske Bank announced its Donegall Square West closed earlier than normal today and has also advised employees in their head office branch to work from home.

A spokesperson for the company said: In light of information about potential protests in and around the city centre this evening, we made the decision to close our Donegall Square West branch early and to allow colleagues in head office to work from home this afternoon if they wished to. This was a precautionary measure in the event of potential travel disruption, as the welfare of our colleagues is our highest priority.

Further anti-immigration and counter protests are planned throughout in the city, joining hundreds across the UK, which claim to be in response to the stabbing of three children in Southport, England.

On Saturday, following an anti-immigration protest, there was a rampage through the streets, with businesses attacked, cars and bins burnt. Three police officers were injured and to date, five people have been arrested, the youngest being just 15.

Further disorder took place on Tuesday evening in south Belfast, where several homes were damaged and a Syrian-run supermarket was attacked twice.

Belfast riots: Allison Morris on three nights of disorder

The disorder has been widely condemned with both the First and deputy First Minister slamming the violence.

"Whilst people are entitled to peaceful protest, there is no justification for racism or the violence and intimidation that occurred on Saturday, they said in a joint statement.

"Those involved should be quickly brought before the courts and we appeal to anyone with information to provide that information to the PSNI.

"We reiterate our joint commitment to a shared, peaceful and inclusive society."

Deputy First Minister appeals for calm after a third night of disorder in Belfast
Police had water cannon on standby last night as violence continued to break out in Belfast. [Kevin Scott]

Masked men were seen kicking in the front doors of houses in Belfast. [Press Eye]

Masked men were seen kicking in the front doors of houses in Belfast. [Press Eye]

Six people have been charged after Tuesday night's disorder in north Belfast.

Earlier today, three men, aged 26, 28 and 41 years, were arrested in connection to the report of damage to homes and cars in the Rathlin Street area.

They have now been charged with a number of offences including criminal damage, riotous behaviour, incitement to hatred and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

All are due to appear at Belfast Magistrates Court tomorrow.

Three teenage boys who were arrested on Tuesday evening in the Shankill area of Belfast have also been charged.

Two boys aged 16 and one aged 14 have all been charged with riotous behaviour and are due to appear at Belfast Youth Court on Monday, September 2.

The charges follow a night of disorder across Belfast which included a car being rammed into an estate agents and masked men kicking in residents front doors.

At around 8.45pm, it was reported to police that a car was hijacked by a group of masked men on Fingal Street.

The vehicle was driven at the front of an estate agents on Woodvale Road, causing minimal damage to the building, according to the PSNI.

Police said officers were immediately deployed to the scene when it was reported, just after 9.25pm, that masked men were smashing windows in the Rathlin Street area.

A number of homes belonging to foreign nationals have been attacked in the Woodvale area.



Videos shared with @beltel show masked men patrolling the area and kicking in doors.



Some of this group were involved on the attack of my vehicle



Police are in the area. pic.twitter.com/1BwKZeRS6i  Kevin Scott (@Kscott_94) August 6, 2024

A police helicopter circled the scene.

Crowds gathered in the streets and its understood that last night local bus services had been suspended in the area.

Read more Photographers car damaged by masked men in north Belfast

In a separate incident on the Falls Road, a boy was also assaulted after eggs had been thrown at a shop and staff racially abused.

There were also bins set alight in east Belfast which blocked a road and caused traffic disruption.

In a statement, the PSNI branded the scenes across the city as a disgrace.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: For a third night, our officers dealt with incidents such as assaults, criminal damage and arson in a challenging environment right across the city.

We received a report at around 6.10pm that a shop on the Falls Road had eggs thrown at it and that staff inside were being racially abused by a group of young people.

A 15-year-old boy was assaulted and while he received minor facial injuries, I have no doubt this was a terrifying incident for the young victim. When police attended, a large group from the local community were outside to diffuse the situation. A 14-year-old boy was cautioned for offences such as common assault, disorderly behaviour and criminal damage. We will review the evidence gathered and follow this up in the coming days.

Following a report of a group of young people wearing masks in the Shankill area, officers attended and arrested three boys, two aged 16 and one aged 14, on suspicion of riotous behaviour. They remain in police custody at this time.

Paramilitary element suspected in latest disorder in Belfast

We also dealt with a report of a hijacking in the Fingal Street area of west Belfast at around 8.45pm, followed by a report that a car was deliberately driven at a business in the Woodvale Road area, causing damage to the shutters. The suspects made off from the scene.

Officers dealt with a number of reports of criminal damage to homes and cars in the Enfield Street, Woodvale Road and Rathlin Street. Three men, aged 26, 28 and 41 years, were arrested in connection to the Rathlin Street report on suspicion of offences including criminal damage and they remain in custody at this time.

There were also reports of bins set on fire in the Newtownards Road area of east Belfast, which caused some traffic disruption for a period of time as the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service dealt with the fire.

Belfast riots: Allison Morris on three nights of disorder

Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones continued: The scenes we have been seeing across Belfast over the last few days have been a disgrace and have no place in Northern Ireland.

We continue to engage with the groups affected by this criminality and hope these arrests show the community that we are taking action. Our Public Order Enquiry Team will continue to review footage to attempt to identify those involved, as well as those organising and orchestrating this disorder. As with any investigative process, the Police Service will follow the evidence and present it to the Public Prosecution Service.

I am appealing to the public directly, do not let these criminals hide in your community. Anyone with any information which can help identify any of these individuals should contact Police. We have set up a Major Incident Public Portal for people to submit information, images and footage. Photos and footage, including CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage, can be shared with police through the Major Incident Public Portal at Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).

.
Thugs involved in violence across Northern Ireland are destroying their own communities, the deputy First Minister has said.

On a visit to Causeway Hospital, Emma Little-Pengelly and DUP MP Gregory Campbell said they wanted to send a strong message against racism".

Also speaking at the hospital, Dr Ramamoorthy Nambi said the scenes in Belfast in recent days were very shocking.

He pointed out that more than half of the medical staff at Causeway Hospital are from overseas, mainly from Asia and the Middle East.

During the visit Ms Little-Pengelly and Mr Campbell met with members of staff who have come from other countries to work in the NHS and make Northern Ireland their home.

The deputy First Minister said: Violence is unacceptable. Disorder is unacceptable and thats the clear message our local representatives have been sending.

Were here today to send that very clear message as well, by our presence, to say were fully supportive of those incredible people right throughout the community and from all the places across this globe, coming here to Northern Ireland and providing really good services to people here.

Were sending a message of no to racism and no to violence on the streets.

Deputy First Minister appeals for calm after a third night of disorder in Belfast

She said those engaged in violence are "causing destruction to their own communities".

Both Ms Little-Pengelly and Mr Campbell stressed what they believe to be legitimate concerns in communities, but added that some people are trying to manipulate those concerns and drive that towards disorder and racism.

The deputy First Minister said the DUP knows people are suffering and struggling to get housing and they hear those concerns.

Mr Campbell wanted to make a distinction between people who come legally, pay their taxes and raise their families and those who come illegally.

He said that without overseas workers the service would collapse and those out protesting would suffer, like everyone else.

Asked about the DUPs policy on immigration, Mr Campbell again wanted to distinguish between issues, saying Prime Minister Keir Starmer has to take responsibility around boats coming in, and it is separate from people being attacked who are here legally and who we depend on for many jobs.

The East Londonderry MP added: The issue of immigration is one that will have to be dealt with by the government and we in Parliament will be asking the government and pressing them to act on that problem.

Let us be sure that we dont intertwine these two issues to the extent that concern about an open-door immigration policy becomes described as racist and results in attacks on the people that weve seen the last few days.

They are two distinct, separate issues and the government must act on one of them and we will certainly put pressure on them to act on the issue of open-door immigration.

Responding to plans for what is framed as a Protect Our Children protest on Friday evening in Derry, Mr Campbell said there has been pressure to de-escalate given the weekend thats in it with a major Apprentice Boys parade being held.

Belfast riots: Allison Morris on three nights of disorder

He hopes people will respect that and respond to appeals for calm.

Meanwhile, Dr Nambi spoke of the impact on health staff.

He said he has personally experienced racism, both in England and here, adding it happens all the time, but physical abuse is very unusual.

He believes the violence should be called out as pure racist abuse and not anti-immigration in nature.

Dr Nambi pointed to health workers in Antrim being forced to leave their homes, and asked racist thugs to think about who is going to staff hospitals here.

Other health professionals, he said, have considered leaving because they all have families and if your family is not safe then whats the point of living here.

He added: A lot of colleagues in Belfast and Antrim have said theyve been made feel unsafe and if this continues they are going to think about leaving.
Sinister grafitti has been daubed on shopfronts and on walls around the Rathcoole estate in north Belfast. Alan Lewis - Photopress

Graffiti daubed on a number of walls in Newtownabbey targeting migrants and threatening to burn them out is being investigated as a racially-motivated hate crime.

The sinister messages appeared on shopfronts and on walls around the Rathcoole estate in Newtownabbey and other parts of NI.

The PSNI said it is aware of offensive graffiti being painted in the Dublin Road and Market Square area of Antrim and the ONeill Road and Kings Crescent area of Newtownabbey in addition to multiple locations in the Rathcoole estate.

"We are investigating each of these reports as racially-motivated hate crimes, a spokesperson said.

We will do everything we can as a Police Service to ensure that everyone, no matter what their background, feels safe in their community.

Targeting anyone because of who they are is wrong, and must be called out.

Anyone who may have any information on any of these incidents can contact officers on 101, or report online at psni.police/uk/report.

"Our Neighbourhood Policing Team officers will continue to engage with local community representatives and partner agencies around any complaints regarding graffiti."

The grafitti in Rathcoole threatening migrantsAlan Lewis - Photopress

Among the messages are threats directed against landlords and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive as well as immigrants.

Some of the messages aimed at immigrants feature gunsights and threats to burn them out.

Some of the graffiti Photo: Alan Lewis - Photopress

A Housing Executive spokesperson said: We work proactively to promote inclusivity and diversity in our homes and estates and that is why it is particularly disappointing to encounter graffiti of this nature.

For this reason, we contacted the PSNI as soon as we became aware of the graffiti and understand an investigation is underway.

It comes after several days of tension and violence across Northern Ireland after a far-right protest in Belfast city centre on Saturday.

Last 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.

Belfast supermarket owner surveys damage to his business after more violence on Monday night
EXCLUSIVE | PSNI appeals for loyalist paramilitaries to help end racist Belfast rioting

But UDA and UVF sources say trouble nothing to do with them and insist it is a policing matter

Police vehicles are targeted during disorder in Sandy Row on Monday (Picture: Kevin Scott)

Allison Morris Wed 7 Aug 2024 at 16:15

Paramilitaries have refused to use their influence to end racially-motivated street disorder.
Disorder in the Sandy Row area of Belfast on August 5th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

The PSNI has requested additional officers from across the UK to combat rising violence and disorder in Belfast.

Last Saturday saw large anti-immigration protests across Northern Ireland while violence and disorder has escalated in recent days.

Six people have been charged, including three teenage boys, while three police officers have been injured.

Watch: Cars burn during night of disorder in south Belfast

Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said the request for additional officers was in direct response to the ongoing trouble while the PSNI itself would be mobilising its service across the coming days.

As a result of the ongoing street violence and disorder we have seen across Belfast since the weekend the Police Service of Northern Ireland has taken a decision to significantly mobilise the service. Unfortunately this will mean officers and staff working longer shifts and rest days, she said.

Increasing our resources and footprint across Northern Ireland in the coming days will enable us to manage planned events and deal with any sporadic incidents, including disorder.

We have also submitted a request to National Police Co-ordination Centre for additional officers from across the United Kingdom to support the policing operation.

The National Police Coordination Centre (NPoCC) provides support to forces across the United Kingdom, Crown Dependencies and British Overseas Territories.

It co-ordinates the deployment of officers and staff from across UK policing to support forces during large-scale events.

ACC Jones added: The Mutual Aid officers will provide vital resilience and support and will be given all of the necessary equipment and familiarisation training.

Any officers who may come to Northern Ireland would specifically assist with the ongoing public disorder and protests and not every day policing.

We will continue to keep this under review.
Single mum praises neighbours who came to her aid  and forgives culprits

Lanai Molina (45) reading the note left by an anonymous well-wisher (Picture by Brett Campbell)

A Filipina care worker has said she will not leave her Co Antrim home after it was targeted in a race hate attack because she doesnt know where is safe.

Lanai Molina (45) was working at a care home when a brick was thrown through the front window of her house in Ballyclare shortly after 12am yesterday.

The same person or people are believed to have thrown a brick through the windscreen of her car, parked outside the property on Erskine Park. Police are treating the matter as a racially-motivated hate crime.

Ms Molina said she forgave whoever was to blame.

She added: I hope you dont do this to anyone again. You dont know what youre doing.

I came here to take care of your people. I will not harm your people and I am not a bad person. I just do my job.

The well-wisher said the attack was not in their name

The single mother, a former mechanical engineer who moved to Northern Ireland in February after almost 20 years in Dubai, received a text from her eight-year-old daughters nanny explaining what had happened, but she was unable to read it until the end of her shift at 7.30am.

Ms Molina said: I still feel nervous because I have a daughter, and I dont know who did this. What if she had been here when it happened? The upstairs window is close to where she sleeps, so that worries me because there is damage to the roof. It looks like a brick missed an upstairs window.

Im really shocked and scared. I dont know when it will happen again. Maybe when my daughter is here and we are sleeping.

Her daughter, Jelleine, was staying with a friend when the attack happened but is normally in the property with her nanny.

Her frightened mother delayed picking her up until the window had been repaired and the shattered glass cleaned up.

I dont want her to witness what happened here. She doesnt know, she said.

I dont want her to feel bad. I want to keep this a secret from her because she will be sad, worried and scared. I will bring her home later like normal, as if nothing happened.

I dont want her to have a bad image of people. She loves people here and has so many classmates in the neighbourhood. She really enjoys living here.

Damage to the front window (Picture by PressEye)

Ms Molina also praised a neighbour who came and gave me a hug.

She said: They are really sad about what happened.

I have another very good neighbour who I went to this morning and said, Please help me. He came straight away and spoke with me. He did not think twice. He phoned the police and helped me with my landlord.

I feel like they are with me and are concerned too.

An anonymous well-wisher also posted a card through her letterbox reading: Not in my name. We are so sorry that this has happened to you. Whoever did this does not represent our neighbourhood. God Bless.

Ms Molina said while she was grateful for the support, she did not feel safe.

She told how she had received text messages from her worried mum and siblings just hours before she was targeted.

They asked her to be careful after watching news bulletins at home in the Philippines about the violence in Northern Ireland.

Ms Molina said: I told them Im okay because I live in Ballyclare and it is far from Belfast, and then suddenly it happened to me.

I will stay here because I dont have anywhere else to go and I have no family here, but I dont know where is safe for us.

This is happening everywhere, and I know colleagues who have been targeted in other places.

Damage to the car (Picture by PressEye)

Read more Belfast violence fuelled by prejudice and misinformation  victims commissioner

Ms Molina believes whoever was behind the attack must have been under the influence of alcohol or drugs because she cant imagine a normal person doing what they did.

She remains convinced that the wider community is good and is relying on her faith to get her through.

I really feel scared, but you have to decide if the fear goes into your heart or your mind, she said.

Everything happens for a reason. God is with me and I will just take this situation as a trial in our lives.

I like this country and I like this area, so I will continue my service because I love caring for people. This is the reason why I am here.

It was reported earlier this week that around 10 nurses in the Belfast Trust were considering leaving Northern Ireland because they no longer felt safe.
Director Robert McDowell said his staff are worried about coming into work and being in their own homesTenants of the agency have left Northern Ireland out of fear for their safety

A Belfast estate agent whose premises were rammed by a car has said he is frightened and devastated after his business was targeted twice in a week. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press.

The director of a north Belfast estate agents has said he is in "shock" after a car was rammed into his shop on Tuesday evening.

Robert McDowell said tenants were left terrified upstairs in the premises after the vehicle was driven at the front of the building on Woodvale Road.

Mr McDowell also said there has been protests outside the business in the days leading up to the incident based on messages spread on social media that he was "housing asylum seekers", something he said is "100% totally untrue".

The incident happened amid a further night of violent disorder which took place across Belfast. Police confirmed six people have been arrested  including three teenage boys.

Paramilitary element suspected in latest disorder in Belfast

Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster's Nolan Show, Mr McDowell said: "I got a phone call about quarter to 8 this evening by a member of staff, who had got a phone call to say there had been an attack at our office on the Woodvale Road.

"A car had been driven into the side of the building.

"Above our offices are four apartments. Shortly after that, one of the residents up there she phoned me and told me what had happened. There had been two attempts to crash into it... and that a crowd was gathering outside our building.

"Another report told me they saw four people getting out of the car and running away and they were hooded and they ran off.

"I am sitting here in shock - totally shocked to be truthful and a bit scared and very, very concerned for the people in that building this evening.

"They are very worried about coming to work tomorrow. They are very worried about being in their own homes this evening.

"We are a traditional estate agent we sell houses for people we let houses for landlords and we find tenants. The business has been in that area for almost 30 years.

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

"The message seems to be that we are housing asylum seekers. It is 100% totally untrue. We just simply cannot accept them as tenants because they do not meet the simple straightforward referencing."

The business owner explained he cannot accept illegal immigrants or asylum seekers as tenants due to the need for references and guarantors.

"The idea we are letting houses to this group of people is a total nonsense. It is so far from the truth, he added.

Mr McDowell went on to explain a previous demonstration outside his business and other estate agents took place last Friday, with people gathering outside the building with placards.

"This was anger and frustration again about the level of immigration and particularly targeted at asylum seekers, he added.

"We got wind of that and as the group started to assemble we looked the door there were five of us inside the building and we put our shutters down. They started shouting come out and rattling the shutters. There were people standing with placards.

"[It] was circulating that Rea Estates are the cause of the problem in the area that we are the ones who are housing asylum seekers and illegal immigrants.

"People were warning me and warning in particular the staff. We were expecting something further could happen.

"You are targeting completely the wrong person.

Belfast riots: Allison Morris on three nights of disorder

Mr McDowell also revealed tenants of his have started to leave Northern Ireland out of fear of being targeted, including a nurse who worked in the health service who he said is returning to India.

"There is one tenant who said he has had enough he is going back to Africa.

"I know of another family, a husband and wife and I think they had one child - who returned to India.

"She was a nurse and she left Belfast. She didn't feel safe anymore.

"Her house was targeted and a sticker put on the window which made it very clear that because of where she was born she wasn't welcome in the area. She gave up a well paid job and left.

Mr McDowells urged those behind the attack to understand he and his staff are trying to do the best for the local community.

"I have never experienced this I have never had people working for me who are scared, he said.

"Whoever is doing this, the chatter is wrong it is on social media but it is wrong. We are not doing what you think we do.

"What I would say to them is think about the people who work in Rea Estates who may well be your neighbours. They have kids at the same school as yours. Think of them. They are not the bad people.

"We are just a very ordinary business trying to do the best for the local community.

Speaking about the attack on the estate agents on Wednesday morning PSNI temporary assistant chief constable Melanie Jones said: We dealt with a report of a hijacking in the Fingal Street area of west Belfast at around 8.45pm, followed by a report that a car was deliberately driven at a business in the Woodvale Road area, causing damage to the shutters. The suspects made off from the scene.
Footage appears to show some young people throwing objects at staff

The owner of a Middle Eastern supermarket in west Belfast believes he has no option but to close the shop for good after the latest attack.

A young boy sustained facial injuries after being assaulted by a gang of up to 10 youths on the Falls Road at around 6.10pm on Tuesday.

A PSNI spokesperson said a large group of young people had been throwing eggs at the shop.

"During the incident, a young boy had been assaulted by up to 10 youths.

"He sustained a minor facial injury in this assault which is being treated as a hate crime.

Footage of the incident is circulating online and appears to show some of the young people throwing objects at staff.

Businessman Ali Moustafa Wartty told the Belfast Telegraph I have to close as he said similar incidents had occurred since the beginning of the year.

"Its been happening since January, he said.

"We have been attacked many times and the police cannot protect our property.

"We have reported it many times  sometimes the police come and sometimes they do not.

Mr Wartty, who is based in England, said he previously expressed concerns there was a racist motivation for the repeated attacks.

"I met with an officer and said it is definitely a hate crime because no other shops are attacked in the area, he added.

"They have been singling us out.

"Police said they cannot do anything  its very difficult for me, I have a number of businesses in Belfast and I will have to move them.

"Im very disappointed in Belfast.

Sinn Fein councillor Ciaran Beattie said the man challenged suspected shoplifters before being set upon.

The attack on a local shopkeeper on the Falls Road tonight was completely unwarranted and disgraceful, he posted on social media.

Youths attempted to steal items from the shop and when challenged, workers in the store were subsequently attacked.

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This has been reported to police and they are now investigating.

"If anyone has information on the attack they should bring it to the PSNI.

Mr Beattie said his party and community activists have spoken with the workers.

"We will continue to have a presence on the ground and keep in touch with the owner, he added.

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People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll commended local residents for coming to the defence of a migrant-owned business.

A group of young people launched an attack but were quickly dispersed by residents in the area, he said.

Everyone I speak to in our community is disgusted by this shocking incident.

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.

I would appeal to all young people and everyone else to desist from these types of attacks, and to stand for diversity, inclusion, and a welcome west Belfast.

While tonights attack was awful, it is representative of a minority and I commend the immediate response of the community.

"Scores of residents and community activists, including People Before Profit members, turned out to support the shop at short notice.

We must state in no uncertain terms that migrants and all minorities are welcome here and that we will not tolerate such attacks on our neighbours.

SDLP councillor Paul Doherty praised the Incredible show of community solidarity following the attack.

A strong message sent that we won't tolerate this behaviour, he posted on X.

"I have met with police and they are currently acting upon information provided to them regarding those involved.

Lord Kilcooney was among those to acknowledge the intervention of the local community.

Well done by people of the Falls tonight! he posted on social media.

Meanwhile Sean Doherty from Beechmount Residents Collective expressed concerns that young people are being influenced by what they have witnessed on social media in recent days.

"Its worrying for everybody, he said.

"Especially with high tensions in the city.

"Its brought in that fear is this going to escalate?

Police have appealed to anyone with information or who witnessed the assault to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 1284 06/08/24.
Police at scene after serious rioting erupted on Saturday night in the Donegall Road/Sandy Row area of south Belfast. Pic: Photopress

A former community worker says he is appalled by the response of unionist politicians to the outbreak of racist attacks across Belfast.
Manager of Syrian supermarket torched in Belfast violence hits out at police

PSNI must do more to protect minorities, says man who fled war at home to start new life in Northern Ireland

The owner of a south Belfast shop targeted for the second time sat outside this morning, after surveying the latest damage. Photo: Jessica Rice.

Jessica Rice Tue 6 Aug 2024 at 21:55

The manager of a Syrian-run supermarket attacked twice during rioting in Belfast has called for action to stop the violence.
Patti Yasutake at the premiere of Beef in Los Angeles in 2023 (Faye Sadou/Media Punch/Alamy/PA)

Patti Yasutake, best known for her roles in the Star Trek franchise and Netflix drama Beef, has died at the age of 70.

The US actress died of cancer in Santa Monica, California, on Monday, her manager Kyle Fritz told the PA news agency.

It was my honour to be Pattis friend and manager for over 30 years, he told PA.

She was aged 70, she would have been 71 on September 6.

Steven Yeun and Ali Wong at the Golden Globes 2024 (Alamy/PA)

Yasutakes last TV role was one of the most high profile of her career, playing mother and widow Fumi Nakai in Beef, a drama about a duo (Steven Yeun and Ali Wong) who start a life-changing feud after a road rage incident.

The series dominated awards season this year, winning gongs including at the Primetime Emmy Awards, the Golden Globes and the Critics Choice Awards.

Yasutake also played Nurse Alyssa Ogawa on Star Trek: The Next Generation, a role she reprised in the 1994 film Star Trek Generations.
The worlds oldest calendar, unearthed at the Gobekli Tepe site in southern Turkey (Martin Sweatman/University of Edinburgh/PA)

The worlds oldest calendar, carved onto an ancient pillar around 12,000 years ago, has been discovered by UK archaeologists.

The timekeeping system, unearthed at the Gobekli Tepe site in mountains of Anatolia in Turkey, suggests people were accurately recording dates 10,000 years before it was documented in Greece in 150 BC.

Analysing the markings, a team led by the University of Edinburgh found 365 V symbols etched on one of the pillars at the site, each thought to represent a single day.

This calendar also shows 12 lunar months with 11 additional days, the researchers said.

The stone carving discovered in Turkey (Martin Sweatman/University of Edinburgh/PA)

Additionally, the carvings appear to depict a comet strike that wiped out large animals 13,000 years ago and triggered a mini ice age that lasted 1,200 years.

This event is thought to have shaped human civilisation with new developments in agriculture and religion.

Dr Martin Sweatman, of the University of Edinburghs 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 civilisation 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, which features the oldest-known man-made structures, was built by hunter-gatherers between 9,600 and 8,200 BC, predating Stonehenge by more than 6,000 years.

The monuments exact purpose has puzzled experts for decades, although many believe the place was used in connection with rituals, such as funerals.

The Gobekli Tepe site is home to the oldest-known monumental structures (Marcia Chambers/Alamy/PA)

The markings also depict the summer solstice as a separate, special day, represented by a V worn around the neck of a bird-like beast, the researchers said.

The team also uncovered a second pillar showing a meteor stream that lasted 27 days.

The findings, published in the journal Time And Mind, suggest these ancient humans used precession, the wobble in Earths axis which affects the movement of constellations across the sky, to record dates.

The markings also appear to show both solar and lunar cycles, which the researchers said could represent the worlds earliest calendar, combining the motions of the sun and moon.
The family of a French explorer who died in a submersible implosion have filed a wrongful death lawsuit seeking more than 50 million dollars (39 million) that accuses the subs operator of gross negligence.

Paul-Henri Nargeolet was among five people who died when the Titan submersible imploded during a voyage to the famed Titanic wreck site in the North Atlantic in June 2023.

No-one survived the trip aboard the experimental submersible owned by OceanGate, a company in Washington state that has since suspended operations.

Known as Mr Titanic, Mr Nargeolet had visited the Titanic site many times before and was regarded as one of the worlds most knowledgeable people about the famous wreck.

Paul-Henri Nargeolet (Jim Rogash/AP)

Lawyers for his estate said in an emailed statement that the doomed submersible had a troubled history, and that OceanGate failed to disclose key facts about the vessel and its durability.

According to the lawsuit, the Titan dropped weights about 90 minutes into its dive, indicating the team had aborted or attempted to abort the dive.

While the exact cause of failure may never be determined, experts agree that the Titans crew would have realised exactly what was happening, the lawsuit states. Common sense dictates that the crew were well aware they were going to die, before dying.

The lawsuit goes on to say: The crew may well have heard the carbon fibres crackling noise grow more intense as the weight of the water pressed on Titans hull. The crew lost communications and perhaps power as well.

By experts reckoning, they would have continued to descend, in full knowledge of the vessels irreversible failures, experiencing terror and mental anguish prior to the Titan ultimately imploding.

A spokesperson for OceanGate declined to comment on the lawsuit, which was filed on Tuesday in King County, Washington.

In their statement, the lawyers, the Buzbee Law Firm of Houston, Texas, said: The lawsuit further alleges that even though Nargeolet had been designated by OceanGate to be a member of the crew of the vessel, many of the particulars about the vessels flaws and shortcomings were not disclosed and were purposely concealed.

Tony Buzbee, one of the lawyers on the case, said one of the goals of the lawsuit is to get answers for the family as to exactly how this happened, who all were involved, and how those involved could allow this to happen.

Concerns were raised in the aftermath of the disaster about whether the Titan was doomed due to its unconventional design and its creators refusal to submit to independent checks that are standard in the industry.

Its implosion also raised questions about the viability and future of private deep-sea exploration.

The US Coast Guard quickly convened a high-level investigation, which is still ongoing. A key public hearing that is part of the investigation is scheduled to take place in September.

The Titan made its last dive on June 18, 2023, a Sunday morning, and lost contact with its support vessel about two hours later.

After a search and rescue mission that drew attention around the world, the wreckage of the Titan was found on the ocean floor about 984 feet off the bow of the Titanic, about 435 miles south of St Johns, Newfoundland.

OceanGate chief executive and co-founder Stockton Rush was operating the Titan when it imploded.

In addition to Mr Rush and Mr Nargeolet, the implosion killed British adventurer Hamish Harding and two members of a prominent Pakistani family, Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood.

The company that owns the salvage rights to the Titanic is in the midst of its first voyage to the wreckage site in years.

Last month, RMS Titanic Inc, a Georgia-based firm, launched its first expedition to the site since 2010 from Providence, Rhode Island.

Mr Nargeolet was director of underwater research for RMS Titanic. His estates attorneys described him as a seasoned veteran of underwater exploration who would not have participated in the Titan expedition if the company had been more transparent.
US vice president Kamala Harris and Minnesota governor Tim Walz will spend their first full day as running mates rallying Democrats across the American Midwest, a politically divided region that is crucial to their effort to win the White House in November.

The trip, which begins in Wisconsin before shifting to Michigan, is aimed at shoring up support among the younger, diverse, labour-friendly voters who were instrumental in helping President Joe Biden win the 2020 election.

But that coalition showed signs of fraying over the summer, particularly in Michigan, which has emerged as a focal point of Democratic divisions over Mr Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

With Mr Biden now out of the race and Ms Harris officially the Democratic nominee, leaders of the Arab American community and key unions say they are encouraged by the choice.

Mr Walzs addition to the ticket has soothed some tensions, signalling to some community leaders that Ms Harris heard concerns about another leading contender for the vice presidential slot, governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, who they felt had gone too far in his support for Israel.

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The party is recognizing that theres a coalition they have to rebuild, said Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan. Picking Walz is another sign of good faith.

Wisconsin senator Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat seeking a third term, appeared with Ms Harris at a campaign stop there last month in suburban Milwaukee, and said in a fundraising email on Tuesday morning that she was thrilled to see a fellow Midwesterner at the top of the ticket.

Donald Trump had put a similar emphasis on appealing to voters in Midwestern states with his choice of Ohio senator JD Vance as his vice presidential choice.

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro had been thought as a potential to take on the role of running mate (AP)

Mr Vance will again bracket the Harris-Walz ticket with appearances in the same states on Wednesday. He is starting his day in Michigan before heading to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, the same city where the Democratic candidates will appear hours later before going to Michigan.

In Michigan, leaders say Democratic enthusiasm has surged since Ms Harris announced her candidacy.

That could be pivotal in Detroit, which is nearly 80% black, where leaders for months had warned administration officials that voter apathy could cost them in a city that is typically a stronghold for their party.

Ms Harris has secured the Democratic nomination after Joe Biden decided not to pursue a second term (AP)

Rev Wendell Anthony, president of the NAACP Detroit branch, said the excitement in the city now is mind-blowing.

He likened it to Barack Obamas first run for president in 2008, when voters waited in long queues to help elect the nations first black president.

The nations largest auto workers union, the United Auto Workers, also watched the vice presidential choice carefully.

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They moved to endorse Ms Harris quickly after she stepped in to replace Biden, and UAW President Shawn Fain said publicly that she had a right to choose her own running mate. But he also said the union, which has 370,000 members and a huge presence in Michigan and other Midwestern states, didnt favour Mr Shapiro, who had previously joined with Pennsylvania Republicans in calling for an expansion of voucher programmes that allow public tax dollars to flow to private schools.

Mr Fain had singled out Mr Walz  in addition to other candidates  for praise in an interview on August 2, saying the Minnesota governor was a brilliant guy, sharp guy.

On Tuesday, Mr Fain said Walz will make a great vice president and that he has stood with the working class every step of the way.
A US and Niger flag are raised side by side at the base camp in Agadez, Niger (Carley Petesch/AP)

The US handed over its last military base in Niger to local authorities, the US Department of Defence and Nigers Ministry of Defence announced in a joint statement on Monday.

The handing over of Airbase 201 in the city of Agadez came after US troops withdrew earlier this month from Airbase 101, a small drone base in Nigers capital of Niamey.

US troops have until September 15 to leave the Sahel country following an agreement with Nigerien authorities.

There are about two dozen American soldiers who remain in Niger, largely for administrative duties related to the withdrawal, according to Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh. They are located at the US embassy.

In March, the Niger junta ended an agreement that allowed US troops to operate in the West African country.

US and Niger military personnel at the base in Agadez (Omar Hama/AP)

A few months later, officials of the two countries announced in a joint statement that US troops would complete their withdrawal by the middle of September.

Niger had been seen as one of the last nations in the restive region that western nations could partner with to beat back growing jihadi insurgencies.

The US and France had more than 2,500 military personnel in the region until recently, and together with other European countries had invested hundreds of millions of dollars in military assistance and training.

In recent months Niger has pulled away from its western partners, turning instead to Russia for security.

In April, Russian military trainers arrived in Niger to reinforce the countrys air defences.

A US Air Force plane takes off from the nations last military base in Niger (Omar Hama/AP)

Nigers ousting of American troops following a coup last year has had broad ramifications for the US, with the coup forcing troops to abandon another critical area used for counterterrorism missions in Sahela.

The vast savanna, found south of the Sahara desert, is where groups linked to al Qaeda and the Islamic State group often operate.

One of those groups, Jamaa Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, known as JNIM, is active in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger and is looking to expand into Benin and Togo.
Sweden is famous for its progressive family policies, and now it has introduced plans to allow grandparents to take a share of paid parental leave. The UK would do well to follow their example, says Katie Rosseinsky

There are plenty of reasons to be jealous of the Swedes. Their society is famously egalitarian. So far do they seem to have solved the conundrum of how to strike a better work-life balance that they even have a word  fika  to describe the act of leaving your desk to have a coffee and a chat. And their capital city has an entire museum dedicated to Abba. Now theyve given us yet another reason to feel envy: theyve just improved their already world-leading parental leave policy, putting other countries to shame.

At the start of this month, Sweden launched a new law allowing parents to transfer some of their paid parental leave allocation over to the grandparents during a childs first year. A couple will be able to re-allocate 45 days of their joint 480-day allowance (240 days each), while a single mum or dad can pass on 90 days. The move comes 50 years after the Scandinavian nation became the first ever country to introduce paid parental leave that could be split between both parents.

The UK would do well to take note. Our childcare system is among the most expensive in the developed world; prices here are now double the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average. For some mothers, its barely worth returning to work when their childcare costs might outstrip their salary. Last year, a survey from the charity Pregnant Then Screwed found that 76% of mums who pay for childcare believed that it no longer made sense for them to work. Its situations like this that help keep the gender pay gap alive and well. And if your career is a big part of your identity, having no choice but to put it aside must be incredibly frustrating and isolating.

Against this backdrop, its hardly a surprise that many parents are leaning on their own parents to fill the gaps with free babysitting while theyre at the office, or during the notoriously tricky school summer holidays. The cost-of-living crisis will have only made this reliance more pronounced.

According to a 2023 study from insurance providers SunLife, 53% of grandparents are providing some form of childcare during the working week, collectively saving a staggering estimated 96bn in nursery and childminder fees.

A set-up like this might well remove the barriers preventing parents (read: mums, in most cases) from going back to work. But its a sticking plaster on a bigger problem. And what about granny and grandpa? People are living longer and retiring later; grandparents may well still be working themselves, and feel compelled to step back earlier than theyd like over childcare guilt.

Statistics from Age UK estimate that around one million grandparents over the age of 50 have stopped work or cut down their hours in order to provide regular support for the grandkids. Expecting your own parents to muck in for free just feels like pushing the same problem back for another generation to deal with; its also a personal solution to a collective problem.

Giving older employees the chance to take, say, a few weeks or months of paid leave to help out with their grandchildren doesnt just take some of the pressure off the parents. It also means that grandparents dont have to make a choice between supporting their younger family members and continuing to work (or, at the very least, it means they can postpone that decision).

Allowing parents to allocate some of their paid leave to grandparents would recognise that many of them are still in employment, and themselves juggling careers with helping to look after their grandchildren, agrees Justine Roberts, founder and CEO of Mumsnet and Gransnet.

As the workforce gets older, it makes sense that businesses should start offering benefits to better reflect that (see also: better menopause policies) and to encourage their most experienced staff to stick around.

As the workforce gets older, it makes sense that businesses should start offering benefits to better reflect that

The wheels were once in motion for a policy of this kind in the UK. In 2015, a few months after the introduction of shared parental leave, then chancellor George Osborne announced his intention to extend this provision to grandparents. Under this approach, eligible parents would have been able to split up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of statutory pay with their parents. The new plan was meant to be put in place by 2018, but it ended up being sidelined while the government tried to investigate the sluggish uptake for shared parental leave overall (in those first few years, only an estimated 2% of eligible couples had opted in).

Grandparental leave hasnt been picked up since, and it seems to have fallen off the political agenda completely  despite the fact that childcare ended up being a major talking point in the general election, with the Liberal Democrats offering to expand paternity leave and Labour promising to create 100,000 new nursery places.

But although theres no legal entitlement for grandparents to take time to care for their grandchildren, a handful of employers are starting to offer some form of leave for their older workers. One of the first companies to do so in the UK was, rather aptly, Saga, purveyors of insurance and holidays for the over-fifties crowd. In 2021, they announced that their employees would be able to take a week of paid leave to celebrate the birth of a grandchild.

Perhaps the biggest obstacle to introducing wider grandpaternity plans over here, though, is the fact that the fundamentals of our current parental leave just arent that good. The eligibility criteria for shared parental leave is complex  many co-parents will find they dont actually qualify for it  and the statutory pay is low, capped at around 184 a week or at 90% of average earnings, whichever figure happens to be lower. (In Sweden, by contrast, parents receive 80% of their salary for 390 days.)

Is it any wonder that enthusiasm for this policy is still pretty muted? An evaluation report from 2023 found that, eight years on from its introduction, only 1% of mothers and 5% of fathers had opted into a policy that was supposed to be a game-changer for gender equality.

In Sweden, Roberts notes, dads take around 30% of all parental leave days, and much more progress has been made on equalising the responsibilities of parenthood, so grandparental leave may be a logical next step. But introducing it without tackling this fundamental imbalance in our [UK] system would simply perpetuate a status quo that sees women shoulder the bulk of the childcare burden.

Grandpaternity leave isnt a silver bullet for the UKs childcare nightmare. Not all grandparents will want to sign up; not all parents have the safety net of supportive, healthy parents of their own living close by. But providing it as an option would better reflect the reality of parenting in 2024. Hopefully, Sweden has given our new government some food for thought.

 The Independent
Ganlan building: distinctive housing facility for local Zhuang ethnic minority group in S China

Xinhua) 14:03, August 07, 2024

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)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Areas of patchy fog early. Cloudy early, then off and on rain showers for the afternoon. High 57F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Cloudy. Periods of rain early. Low near 40F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning. Increasing clouds with periods of showers this afternoon. High 57F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Cloudy. Periods of rain early. Low near 40F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
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GREAT BARRINGTON  Its not democracy thats at stake in America right now. It is, rather, a fundamental sense of American decency that is withering at deaths door.

So says Joe Klein, a journalist, political commentator and author who said the news media has been central to this deterioration of discourse.

Klein said this and more Monday night at Saint James Place for a sold-out chat with author Peter Canellos, who is also a former Boston Globe editor, and currently managing editor of enterprise at Politico.

The two sat on stage together for Finding Sanity: A conversation with Joe Klein, hosted by The Berkshire Eagle. The Eagle used the event to announce the 2024 campaign for its Local Journalism Fund, which is managed by Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation and The Eagle donated all of the net proceeds from the event to the Fund.

Klein is well known to The Eagle. It was a lecture a decade ago, where Klein said, democracy requires citizenship and citizenship requires a town square, which sparked Publisher Fredric Rutberg to buy the paper in 2016, Rutberg said.

Klein said it again on Monday, a little differently, speaking to that lack of decency.

Were going to have to have responsible journalism that establishes a town square, he said, where issues can be discussed and debated.

Something has rotted since those days when journalists' basic default was skepticism, Klein added, before it slid over time into cynicism.

And cynicism became the rule of the day, Klein said, and it became that way because of marketing.

And guess what else Klein thinks about the way ideas are broadcast: Stability doesnt sell. Mainstream media, as it were, are getting too much out of the bread and circuses of selling Trump for ratings.

A gold mine for all of us, Klein said of Trump. We made a lot of money off that boy.

Klein is the man who, publishing as Anonymous, later admitted to having authored Primary Colors, a novel  and then movie, starring John Travolta as Bill Clinton  about a thinly disguised Clinton campaign for The White House.

He has gone deep into high places. Klein has been screamed at by President Barack Obama, which he saw as a measure of Obamas trust. Klein has had screaming matches with Hillary Clinton, but couldnt get a rise out of President Bill Clinton though he tried hard, he said.

Cannelos questions were mere nudges that set Klein in motion. He spoke of what is gnawing at American citizens three months out from the election.

Topics ranged from President Donald Trump, the unnatural spawn of liberal arrogance, Klein said. To the mistakes of the Democrat Party that are now boomeranging back with a bang.

They decided that identity was more important than unity in the mid-90s, Klein said, adding that making distinctions according to race, gender, sexuality or immigration status would eventually make "trouble."

Trouble that spawned Trump and the revenge of the gringos  the stirring of white supremacy in the electorate, he said. Klein said he saw it coming.

But he didnt play to the left Monday night. Although, he may have been out of compliance here and there.

I know that if Ive been successful, Klein said, I probably offended each of you in some way. Its all based on what Ive seen and done, he said.

One such offense was likely when the talk turned to abortion and the need to ask Democratic presidential nominee and Vice President Kamala Harris some hard questions on this.

The Democrats have been too cavalier on this issue, he said; the Republicans, too ridiculous.

Rumblings of discomfort undulated through the deconsecrated church. Somewhere in the wreckage of sympathies and antipathies lies sanity, and Klein wants to be on the rescue team.

His Substack blog, Sanity Clause, is named for the long legal document unfurled by one of the Marx Brothers in their film, Night at the Opera.

Kleins blood appears to run thick with old-fashioned journalistic ethics. He will report out on any given situation to see for himself what is really going on. He's traveled to Afghanistan and Iraq to do it.

Closer to home, Klein knows all about local reporting and how critical it is. He recalls his early days as a reporter at local papers, covering zoning boards and city councils.

It is necessary, he said, that there are observers.

Editor's note: This article has been corrected to reflect that The Eagle donated ticket sales proceeds to its Local Journalism Fund. The event itself was not a fundraiser.
Editor's Note: This story was updated at 12:27 p.m. to correct Capt. Lindsay Cornwell's name and title.

PITTSFIELD  Five men moved about the black stage, then laid down limbs entwined, embodying the image of bodies discarded.

They were the actors developing the script for a new theater piece, REPAIR, which will be performed for audiences three times next week at Berkshire Community College's Boland Theater. Through movement and dialogue, they were symbolizing the struggles of addiction and incarceration, said actor Ahmed Moustafa Reda.

He and his colleagues developed the piece, which tells the stories of eight Berkshire County men who had served time behind bars, and now find themselves in the sometimes precarious position of reestablishing their life on the outside.

During a recent rehearsal, Reda rose from the floor and delivered his lines. He spoke of a time his character stumbled downstairs from his ninth-floor apartment and found a dead body in the stairwell.

Fellow actor Marcus Neverson then rose from the floor. His character told of how his best friend was shot in the head, and killed, while standing right beside him.

Another actor, Tom Truss, followed suit. His character's son died of leukemia while in jail in New York. Himself serving time in a Harford, Conn., prison, his character was prevented from donating potentially life-saving bone marrow.

"You really want to do it justice; for these people, who have experienced all these things," said the show's fourth actor, Max Conaway, who rounds out the cast alongside John Moreno.

They are the stories of complex men whose misdeeds, often born of nurture and necessity, led them into the carceral system. The men found their way to the aftercare group run by 2nd Street Second Chances, the Pittsfield nonprofit that provides reentry services to previously incarcerated residents.

To help produce the theater piece, the men took part in recorded interviews with directors Amy Brentano and Sara Katzoff.

This is the second time Brentano and Katzoff have told the stories of formerly incarcerated residents through the medium of performance. They developed and staged "Release" in September, which was based on the stories of participants in the women's aftercare group.

Capt. Lindsay Cornwell, the executive director of 2nd Street, described the process of bringing that show to fruition as healing for those women.

"I know first hand how therapeutic art and the process of creating something meaningful can be," she said. "It allows them to be vulnerable."

The women's stories centered around themes of addiction and motherhood, said Brentano and Katzoff in an interview at Brentano's performing arts space, The Foundry, in West Stockbridge. The men they interviewed experienced a greater amount of physical violence  both in and out of lockup.

Brentano said the men, especially those who were incarcerated in the New York state prison system, described how they were forced to suppress any whiff of vulnerability to get by.

"They spoke about having to shut down their humanity to survive," she said.

Katzoff said the men had dreams and interests early on in life that those around them failed to foster. Instead, many of them were pushed away from pursuing their passions.

"The piece," she said, "is starting to speak to what that is  the things we do to men."

Together, the actors and directors devised a production that incorporates movement and stage design to tell the men's stories. With input from the actors, Katzoff and Brentano wrote a script that is largely based on direct quotes from their subjects. None of the characters, however, are a direct representation of any one of the subjects.

The production will be staged at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 12, and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13. The shows are open to all and completely free to attend.

Reda, who immigrated from Egypt and is an acting student at MCLA, mined his character's journey for inspiration, and found commonalities between them. Finding those similarities, like how they are both fathers of daughters, allowed him to relate to his character and find the truth in his portrayal.

He hopes audiences will do the same.

"Don't judge so quick; give chances to other people and try to understand them," he said. "Appreciate what you have in your life, and don't take anything for granted.
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WILLIAMSTOWN  People dont always enter themselves into rehab at their lowest moments.

Andrew McKenna, an expert on substance abuse and mental health, knows this and that a one-size-fits-all approach to substance abuse treatment just doesn't work.

They could be college students, professionals, struggling, still have their jobs, still have their families, or it could be the other extreme, literally someone whos lost everything, said McKenna, who will be leading a new rehab center set to open in the buildings of the former Sweet Brook nursing home facility.

Greylock Recovery, which could open this fall, is currently pursuing its license. The center plans to offer residential care  lasting a minimum of 28 days  and detox, which involves managing medical withdrawals. It will start with 65 available beds, up to 20 of which will be dedicated to detox.

The center will not be admitting people based on economic status, according to McKenna. Greylock Recovery will be taking a mix of commercial insurance and MassHealth, the equivalent of Medicaid, and will not have a cap on the number of beds on MassHealth.

Bankrolling the project is G8 Financial, an investment group out of New York with a health care focus. Williamstown Recovery Realty LLC purchased the former Sweet Brook Nursing Home for $1.2 million in 2022.

Sweet Brook closed in 2020 after a history of abuse of residents and safety violations. While there was some pushback two years ago to the proposal of the rehab center, McKenna says the very real not-in-my-backyard attitude for similar facilities across the country was not as prevalent in Williamstown.

The Greylock Recovery team hired more than 20 people earlier than originally planned  they had expected to open in early 2024, but the boiler and heating and hot water system went, so that had to be replaced McKenna said. In a demonstration of their commitment to the business, investors kept all the staff members on, conducting extensive training with them and paying them for 40 hours of work a week, and expending north of $500,000 to do so.

McKenna said G8 is in it for the long haul.

They know this is going to work, were going to run this place effectively, and theyll get the financial rewards when they come, he said.

Opioids in Massachusetts During the past decade, use and abuse of opioids has been rampant in the Berkshires, the state and the nation. The availability of cheap, addictive heroin, along with fentanyl, has devastated families and led to overdose deaths. According to June Massachusetts Department of Public Health data, there were an estimated 48 opioid-related overdose deaths in Berkshire County in 2023, compared to 47 in 2022 and 62 in 2021. Opioid-related overdose deaths rose 1,300 percent between 2010 and 2020, from four the former year to 56 the latter. For the entire state, opioid-related overdose deaths declined 10 percent between 2022 and 2023, from an estimated 2,357 deaths the former year to 2,125 the latter. Fentanyl remained the biggest killer in 2023, followed by cocaine, alcohol, benzodiazepine, xylazine, amphetamine, prescription opioids then heroin, respectively.

A GAP TO FILL

Asked if there are gaps in the current substance use treatment options in Berkshire County, Berkshire Harm Reduction Director Sarah DeJesus said, There are always gaps.

But I think the more support services, the more of a variety of programs and avenues we have for people, the better off well be as a community, DeJesus continued. A cookie-cutter approach to substance use treatment is rarely successful because people have a variety of facets that determine successful outcomes.

DeJesus said when it comes to inpatient beds and substance abuse, there's no such thing as "enough beds."

An inpatient program not only is able to treat peoples substance use, but other things they may not have outside of that treatment: medical care, food, housing, counseling," DeJesus said. "Basic necessities people sometimes dont have, they get access to in an inpatient facility. They try to build skills and be better when they leave.

Currently, regional options for substance use treatment include Carlson Recovery Center in Springfield, which offers somewhat similar services to what Greylock Recovery will. Other organizations like the Brien Center and Berkshire Harm Reduction offer services, and there's the McGee Recovery Center, which is a detox unit run by Berkshire Health Systems. Detox can last three to five days at McGee, and clinical stabilization services can go on for a couple weeks.

Clinical Director Rick Berger said Greylock Recovery will be able to release "some of the pressure" on the McGee Recovery Center by offering more detox beds.

We are understaffed across Berkshire County, and thats the gap were trying to fill. When we are fully online, were going to double the amount of detox beds in Berkshire County, Berger said.

Berkshire Health Systems spokesperson Michael Leary said in response, We look positively on any resources that people who are suffering from SUD would have access to.

BLANK CANVAS

In developing plans for Greylock Recovery, McKenna said he and Berger sat down with investors and set out to answer a few important questions: Why are the recidivism, or return to treatment, rates in the country around 60 to 70 percent? Why do so many people coming out of 28-day programs relapse? Whats missing from traditional treatment?

For one, its family connection, Berger and McKenna say.

[McKenna] and I really arent radicals, but Ive been in recovery now for 36 years, and [McKenna 's] been in this business for 20, so weve seen a lot, and weve seen what works and what doesnt work as well, Berger said. We said to G8, Hey, we want to do something different, we want to move closer to the cutting edge and not just do standard 12-step recovery. We want to bring in the family.

Greylock Recovery will be seeking to involve family in treatment, avoiding cutting them off while maintaining effective boundaries.

DeJesus said treatment plans depend on peoples circumstances, but, The more positive, supportive people, especially family members, who can help people, guide people, support people, the more likely they are to be successful.

Oftentimes family relationships can become strained because of substance use and everything that comes along with it, DeJesus continued, but there are some good groups for family support and reunification. I think thats a huge component of it.

Berger said the center plans to stay connected with people after they are discharged, as long as theyll allow it. Connection, staying involved, staying engaged, is the opposite of addiction.

The staff consists of nurse practitioners, nurses, medical technicians, therapists, kitchen, housekeeping, and so on. There will be roughly one nurse for every four patients, Director of Operations Dawn Clark said.

The medical unit rooms will be two or three beds each, residential will start at two or three, as well. Rooms will differ based on a persons situation. For example, there will be a room or more designated for people who are pregnant.

There will be cameras and security for safety, not surveillance, McKenna said. There will be an all-purpose room as well as an exercise room, two day rooms and more. Greylock Recovery is trying to make the building more welcoming physically and less institutional.

McKenna said he told Berger when they were gearing up to open Greylock Recovery, We have an opportunity, we have a blank canvas, and theyre going to let us create this program. This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing.
Some who criticize Christianity throw out the large number of denominations as reasons to not believe. Christian division minimizes the truth they espouse, critics say.

To some degree this is true. The Bible calls for unity, and believers continually struggle with it. In the Old Testament, God desired for Israel to be unified, even though that failed. And in the New Testament, the Scripture calls believers to unity.

Psalm 133 famously declares how pleasant and good it is for the people of God to dwell in unity. What does this mean for us today?

Who Wrote Psalm 133?

King Davids authorship is indicated in the superscription of the psalm, which reads A Song of Ascents. Of David. From his early days as a young shepherd, David wrote praise songs to God, and when he established the Tent of David outside of Jerusalem and brought the Ark back to Israel, he set up night and day worship to God, including songs.

The Songs of Ascent are a collection of 15 psalms (Psalms 120134) sung by Hebrew pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the three major annual festivals: Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles. The term ascent refers to the journey upwards to Jerusalem, which is situated on a high elevation. The physical ascent to the city also symbolized a spiritual ascent, as pilgrims prepared their hearts for worship and communion with God.

What Are the Elements within Psalm 133?

In Psalm 133, each element David uses carries deep symbolic meaning.

The precious oil represents the anointing oil used in sacred rituals, particularly in the consecration of priests. In Exodus 30:22-33, God instructs Moses to create a special anointing oil to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests. Oil symbolizes holiness, blessing, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. When David compares unity to precious oil, he highlights that unity is sacred, divinely ordained, and carries a spiritual blessing.

The beard of Aaron further emphasizes the priestly anointing. Aaron, as the first high priest, stands as a symbol of spiritual leadership and mediation between God and his people. The oil running down Aarons beard signifies the overflow of Gods blessing from the leader to the entire community. David expresses the idea that unity among Gods people is not just desirable but a divine blessing that flows through the community, starting from the leaders.

The edge of Aarons garment refers to the hem or collar of the high priests robe, which was adorned with bells and pomegranates (Exodus 28:33-34). Unitys anointing is full and complete, from the head down to the very edge of the garment, indicating that Gods blessing of unity covers the entire body of believers.

The dew of Hermon is a metaphor for abundant and life-giving refreshment. Mount Hermon, located in the northern part of Israel, is known for its heavy dew, which nourishes the land. By comparing unity to the dew of Hermon, David suggests that unity brings about a refreshing and life-sustaining environment for the community of believers.

Finally, the mountains of Zion represent Jerusalem, the spiritual heart of Israel. Mount Zion, often used as a symbol for Jerusalem, signifies Gods dwelling place and the center of worship for the Israelites. By linking the dew of Hermon to the mountains of Zion, David connects the idea of unity and blessing with the sacredness of the place where Gods presence dwells and where His people gather to worship.

What Other Verses Call Christians to Unity?

Once Paul began his evangelism to the Gentiles, the Church became a diverse congregation, with people from various ethnic groups, cultures, and languages. Paul continually calls them to unity.

In Ephesians 4:3-6, Paul writes, Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. Paul urges believers to maintain unity through the Spirit, underscoring the foundational elements that bind Christians together.

1 Corinthians 1:10 also speaks to this: Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. Here, Paul appeals to the Corinthian church to avoid divisions and to strive for unity in thought and purpose.

Colossians 3:14 adds another layer, stating, "But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. Love is the ultimate force that binds believers together in perfect unity, encouraging them to cultivate a community marked by love and mutual care.

Finally, Romans 12:16 gives another secret, Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Scripture calls Christians to live in harmony and humility, further promoting unity within the body of Christ.

What Does Our Dwelling in Unity Say about God?

Our unity as believers reflects the nature and character of God, particularly his unity within the Trinity. The Bible consistently teaches that the unity of believers is a testimony to Gods nature and serves as a powerful witness to the world.

In John 17:20-23, Jesus prays for all believers, saying, I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. Christs prayer highlights that our unity mirrors the unity of Jesus and the Father. When we are united, it reflects the oneness and harmony that exist within the Godhead, making it clear to the world that the Father sent the Son.

The Trinity comprises the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit  three distinct Persons who are one in essence and nature. Divine oneness emphasizes the singular nature of God, even as he exists in three Persons. The Gospel of John provides further insight into this unity. John 10:30 records Jesus stating, I and the Father are one, affirming the intimate and indissoluble bond between him and the Father.

Moreover, the unity of the Trinity is demonstrated through the harmonious work of each Person. In creation, all three Persons are involved: the Father speaks the world into existence (Genesis 1:1), the Spirit hovers over the waters (Genesis 1:2), and the Son, as the Word, brings all things into being (John 1:1-3). Similarly, in salvation, the Father plans and sends the Son (John 3:16), the Son accomplishes redemption through His death and resurrection (John 19:30), and the Spirit applies this work to believers, sealing them for salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14).

Our unity as a church is rooted in the unity of God. As we live out spiritual and practical unity, we display the character of God and his work in our lives.

Why Is Dwelling in Unity Pleasant and Good?

First, unity among Christians signifies obedience to Gods command, which he blesses with life and peace. When believers live in harmony, they reflect Gods design for his people, fostering an environment where spiritual and emotional well-being thrives. The Fathers unity brings about peace, reducing conflicts and misunderstandings and creating a supportive community that encourages growth and maturity in faith. God is within himself a family, and believers long for the same family connections, given to us eternally within the church through Christ.

Second, seeking Gods Kingdom through unity ensures his provision. Jesus declares in Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. When Christians prioritize unity and the collective pursuit of Gods purposes, they demonstrate trust in Gods provision.

Moreover, Christian unity serves as a compelling witness to the world about Jesus (John 17:21). When the world sees Christians united in love, purpose, and action, it encounters a powerful testimony of Jesus transformative power and the reality of his resurrection. In a broken and divided world, Christian unity speaks of the supernatural. Unitys witness can draw others to faith, as they observe the tangible difference Christ makes in the lives of his followers.

Furthermore, unity strengthens the churchs ability to fulfill its mission. A united body of believers can effectively pool resources, talents, and spiritual gifts to serve others, evangelize, and address social injustices.

How Can We Endeavor to Dwell in Unity Today?

First and foremost, our unity already exists within Christ and the Spirit. Like our salvation, it isnt something we can attain. He accomplished it on the cross, breaking down all division and enmity. Therefore, our unity only manifests when we place Christ at the center of all we do, and we submit to him as Lord. We intentionally choose to dwell in the unity available in Jesus. Divisions happen when our own agendas and selfish desires get in the way. With this in mind, we can begin with other spiritual disciplines to dwell in unity.

From the unity within Christ, right doctrine is important. While Christians believe diverse things, the simple Apostles Creed reveals unified Christian doctrine by succinctly summarizing essential beliefs shared by diverse Christian traditions. It affirms foundational tenets such as belief in God the Father Almighty, Jesus Christ as His only Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Creed highlights key events in Christs life, including His birth, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, emphasizing salvation and eternal life. By encapsulating core doctrines, the Apostles Creed serves as a common declaration of faith, promoting unity and continuity within the Christian community, bridging denominational differences and reinforcing shared convictions across centuries.

We further promote unity through active peacemaking and reconciliation. Jesus emphasized the importance of peacemaking in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:9). By addressing misunderstandings and grievances openly and lovingly, we create an environment where unity can flourish.

Practicing forgiveness is also crucial for maintaining unity. In Ephesians 4:32, Paul urges, Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Holding onto grudges or past hurts can create division and hinder unity. By extending forgiveness to others, we reflect Gods grace and promote a culture of mercy and understanding within the community.

James 1:19 advises, Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. Effective communication involves not only expressing our own thoughts and feelings but also genuinely listening to and understanding others. Mutual respect and empathy help bridge gaps and build stronger, more cohesive relationships.

Shared worship and service are powerful unifying practices. Hebrews 10:24-25 describes it this way, And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another. This reinforces our common faith and purpose. Regular communal worship helps center our focus on God and reminds us of our shared identity in Christ.

Christ-like service brings unity. Galatians 5:13 encourages, Serve one another humbly in love. When we work together to serve others, whether within the church or in the broader community, we strengthen our bonds and demonstrate the love of Christ. Joint service projects and missions can unite believers around a common goal, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared mission.

Finally, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment helps with unity. Romans 15:7 states, Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. By embracing diversity and valuing each persons unique contributions, we create a community where everyone feels valued and included, further strengthening our unity.

With Christs unity, we become the family we all long for and an outpost of hope for a broken and divided world, showing how God can do the impossible.

Peace.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Dimitri Houtteman

Britt Mooney lives and tells great stories. As an author of fiction and non -iction, he is passionate about teaching ministries and nonprofits the power of storytelling to inspire and spread truth. Mooney has a podcast called Kingdom Over Coffee and is a published author of We Were Reborn for This: The Jesus Model for Living Heaven on Earth as well as Say Yes: How God-Sized Dreams Take Flight.
One way to help with your Bible study is this: What if you grabbed a black marker and began to mark out verses of your Bible? I know that sounds crazy, but stick with me. When we do this, we are often able to discern what would be missing if the verse were not present. Each verse, and each book of Scripture, has a unique contribution to the whole. Its helpful to know what that is  and sometimes we can discover this by pretending it isnt there. Youll need to be sure to put that verse back in there  so maybe dont use a black marker as previously suggested.

Lets do that with 1, 2, and 3 John.

If 1 John was not in our Bible, we would lose an important letter which can help us with assurance of salvation. While we could certainly find other verses in Scripture which point to the forgiveness we experience in Christ, we would be at a great loss if we no longer had 1 John 1:9. Johns unblushing dedication to the necessity of the incarnation and sacrifice of Christ is inspiring and encouraging. 1 John underscores the transformative power of knowing Christ and living in His truth. When we come to Christ we are transformed.

Without 1 John, the church would lack its strong condemnation of early heresies, particularly those denying the incarnation of Christ, which are fundamental to orthodox Christian belief. 1 John is also strong in the imperative of loving one another and what this looks like practically. Its assurance of eternal life, coupled with an emphasis on living out the gospel, is vital to New Testament Christianity.

2 John also offers a unique contribution to the story of redemption. While we might know from the Gospel of John about Jesus being full of grace and truth, we might not have a better example of this in the life of the believer than in 2 John. Here we see the balance between truth and love in a Christian community. This brief letter uniquely addresses the challenge of dealing with false teachers and the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the gospel message.

Perhaps more sharply than any other book or letter in the New Testament, we see here the importance of maintaining doctrinal purity. Yet, it also strikes a note of the necessity of walking in love, offering us a reminder of the dual priorities of living out the gospel. We are to hold fast to sound doctrine and express genuine love for others. The absence of 2 John would leave a gap in the New Testament's counsel on discerning truth and dealing with deception, as well as on how to navigate these issues in the context of Christian hospitality and community relationships.

One of my favorite things to read are the letters of John Newton. The personal correspondence helps me to understand how this great Christian of the past lived out the faith. It shows the various things he struggled with and how he navigated them. Though the situations are usually quite different, the heart behind them remains the same. Reading these shapes me as a pastor.

I think similarly of a letter like 3 John. It is deeply personal but also vital to giving us an example of how the early church thought through issues like hospitality. Without 3 John we might not have this picture of how the early church dealt with church leadership and conflict (the behavior of Diotrephes) and how they reinforced the necessity of hospitality.

In sum, each of these letters is unique and offers something valuable to the canon of Scripture. We benefit from reading Gods Word that is present in these precious letters from John.

Photo credit: Getty Images/Tinnakorn Jorruang
Lebanese Health Minister Firass Abiad during an interview with the German press agency dpa. Photo: Marwan Naamani/dpa Keystone

Concerned about an escalation in the Middle East, hospitals in Lebanon are preparing for an emergency. According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, hospitals in the economically shaken country have a stockpile for around four months.

SDA

"There are areas in which we are clearly not as well prepared as we would like to be," Lebanese Health Minister Firas Abiad told the German Press Agency. These include, above all, the mental health of the population. The everyday stress level of the population is generally very tense.

This has increased again in recent days: "When Israeli fighter jets fly low over Beirut and break through the sound barrier, it reminds the population of previous disasters: The civil war or the port explosion." No one is physically harmed. But the bangs - which often sound like huge explosions - cause psychological trauma. People's reactions showed the anxiety they had to deal with.

Hospitals have "just enough"

According to Abiad, the healthcare sector is already under pressure. Since 2019, the country on the Mediterranean has been in the worst economic crisis in its history. Around 30 percent of doctors and nurses have already left the country due to the crisis. Many hospitals are only equipped with minimal supplies. "Some of them are working on the principle of 'just enough'," says Abiad.

What's more, in the event of an escalation, the ports or airports could also become a target and become inoperable. Should such a situation arise, the supplies of the largest public hospital in Lebanon, the Rafik Hariri Hospital, would last for a maximum of ten days. If it were to be flooded with patients, supplies could run out after just a few days, director Jihad Saadeh told dpa.

Following Israel's killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut last week, the head of the Shiite militia, Hassan Nasrallah, announced retaliation. There are fears that Hezbollah, which is active in Lebanon, will launch an attack on Israel together with Iran. Iran and the Islamist Hamas in the Gaza Strip, which is also allied with Tehran, also hold Israel responsible for the killing of Hamas foreign leader Ismail Haniya in the Iranian capital. Israel has not yet publicly commented on this.

SDA


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Gardai will provide full co-operation to investigations into anyone who took part in recent violent disorder in the UK, the Minister for Justice has said.

Helen McEntee said she reaffirmed a shared commitment with the British government on a range of matters during a call with UK home secretary Yvette Cooper.

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Ms McEntee said An Garda Siochana would fully co-operate with all investigations involving any people from Ireland who have participated in recent riots.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee. Photo: PA

In a statement, she said: We discussed the ongoing disturbances across the United Kingdom over the last week.

We spoke about the common challenges faced by governments and countries across Europe, including similar escalations of violence in Ireland in recent times with anti-migrant undercurrents.

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Assaulting police officers, burning buildings and attacking public amenities cannot be tolerated in a democratic society.

We agreed on the importance of countering racism, supporting our migrant communities, and bringing to justice the perpetrators of such terrible violence.

I noted the strong, ongoing co-operation between the gardai and UK police services and assured the Home Secretary of the full co-operation of gardai, if needed, on investigations involving any people from this jurisdiction who have participated in acts of violent disorder.

We also spoke about protecting the Common Travel Area, which is vital to the daily lives of so many Irish and British citizens, and our joint commitment to preventing any abuse of it.
There's a chronic shortage of second-hand homes for sale across the State.

There were just under 12,500 second-hand homes for sale across the country in July, according to new analysis by MyHome.ie.

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The MyHome.ie research showed there were 24,750 second-hand homes listed for sale in Ireland in July 2014. This compares with 12,477 properties last month  a decline of 50 per cent.

Joanne Geary, Managing director of MyHome.ie, said the 50 per cent decline is pretty dramatic.

[It is a] pretty stark figure when you consider that there is very strong demand in the market currently, but obviously a drop of 50 per cent speaks to the underlying issue in our marketplace which is shortfall of supply, she said.

Ms Geary said Munster has the least number of second-hand properties available, followed by the Border counties. Dublin has experienced a 19 per cent drop in second-hand properties for sale since 2014.

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The province that has been most affected is Munster, with a 61 per cent drop in properties in the decade. Connacht, if we take in the three Border counties, is down 59 per cent and a 36 per cent decline in Leinster. Dublin experienced a 19 per cent drop during the same period which shows that there is very much a chronic supply issue, Ms Geary said.

Of the second-hand properties listed on MyHome.ie last month, 7,983 had an asking price of 450,000 or below, with 2,893 listed for between 450,000 and 800,000.

"This trend is particularly concerning when one considers that, according to the CSO, the population of the country has grown by an average of 65,000 every year since 2016," she added.
Civic leaders, churches, trade unions and businesses have called for an end to rioting after three nights of violent disorder in Belfast.

The violence started in south Belfast after anti-immigration protests in the city.

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Police and members of the public were attacked and businesses owned by those from ethnic minorities burned.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions will rally outside Parliament Buildings at Stormont on Thursday against the protests, ahead of a recall of the Assembly.

Abdelkader Mohamad Al Alloush, owner of the Sham Supermarket on Donegall Road in Belfast (Rebecca Black/PA)

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Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, said while she welcomed the Assembly recall, political leaders must do more.

To eradicate racism, we need a concerted response across society, with clear direction, commitment and action, she said.

We will only succeed in tackling racism and achieve racial equality in Northern Ireland if we have high level commitment and leadership from government.

We welcome the Assembly recall, but it is not good enough just to talk about it, as has been done before.

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We need a new racial equality strategy with concrete, outcome-focused actions that are adequately resourced.

The new strategy must target the elimination of racial inequalities but must also tackle prejudicial attitudes, promote respect for difference and foster community cohesion.

Furthermore, we must see the introduction of effective hate crime legislation, the implementation of an effective refugee integration strategy, ethnic equality monitoring and race law reform.

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Rev Trevor Gribben of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, said it was time to de-escalate the tension (Presbyterian Church in Ireland/PA)

Clerk of the General Assembly and general secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Rev Trevor Gribben, said they join calls for an end to the protests and violence.

He said while lawful protest over the lack of social housing and underinvestment can be legitimate, he said much of what has been seen in recent days has been neither legitimate nor lawful.

Neither has it in fact been protest, but rather we have witnessed racist, hate-filled, wanton violence and destruction that has no place in civilised society, he said.

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This cannot be excused or justified, only universally condemned, as there is no right to intimidate and incite hatred, and certainly no right to riot.

As tensions run high, I would appeal to everyone, those who are planning further street protests and those encouraging direct counter-protests, to think again.

This is a time to de-escalate the tension in our community, and not heighten it. Seeking the peace and prosperity of the city sometimes means setting aside our right to protest, or counter-protest, for the common good. This is surely such a time.

Join the rally at Stormont on Thursday - Stand against Racism - Unite in Hope! pic.twitter.com/P90CK2FOWg  NIPSA (@nipsa) August 6, 2024

Nipsa deputy general secretary Patrick Mulholland urged unity and an end to the deliberate division being sown in working class areas under racist banners.

The violence in recent days is reprehensible and causing real concerns  not only for those directly affected but also within our healthcare system where vital workers across all roles are reconsidering their employment, he said.

We must stand together against racism and support workers regardless of their skin colour, religion or ethnic origin.

Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland director of Amnesty International, urged politicians to call out paramilitary involvement in the disorder.

He was speaking after a senior police officer earlier this week said a paramilitary element is suspected.

Following PSNI acknowledgement of a paramilitary element involved in orchestrating recent violence, we now need politicians to call it out for what it is, a sinister campaign involving illegal organisations with a record of racially motivated violence going back years, he said.

Given the heightened threat level to Muslim, refugee and other communities in Northern Ireland, the police has a huge responsibility in the coming days to protect everyones right to life, and to uphold the human rights of all in our community to live their lives free of violence and intimidation.

Gordon Milligan, chairman of the Labour Relations Agency, said: The CBI, NI Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors, and Manufacturing NI utterly condemn the racist attacks and civil unrest that has been taking place in Belfast.

It is completely unacceptable that businesses and their employees are being attacked and livelihoods ruined.

We call on everyone in society to do all they can to defuse the situation before more people get hurt and Northern Irelands reputation as a good place to work and do business is damaged.
A son of a Defence Forces soldier killed in 1983 has appealed to Sinn Fein MP John Finucane not to take part in an event commemorating a republican.

John Kellys father, Private Patrick Kelly, was killed with Garda Gary Sheehan while taking part in the rescue in Co Leitrim of supermarket executive Don Tidey, who had been kidnapped by the Provisional IRA.

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It happened at Drumcroman Woods, Derrada, on December 16th, 1983.

No-one has been prosecuted for his death.

Private Patrick Kelly was killed by the IRA during a rescue operation 40 years ago (South East Fermanagh Foundation/PA)

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Mr Kelly was commenting on an planned event to honour republican John Joe McGirl, who he alleges was involved with the Provisional IRA.

Mr McGirl went on to become a Sinn Fein councillor in Leitrim, chairman of Leitrim County Council, a TD, and vice president of Sinn Fein.

Mr Finucane is due to take part in the event in Co Leitrim later this month as part of the Ballinamore Family Festival.

In an open letter, Mr Kelly has urged Mr Finucane not to take part in the event, which he describes as both morally reprehensible and a national outrage.

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He writes: It is disappointing that you are scheduled to speak at the event in honour of McGirl.

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No-one has been prosecuted for the murders of a member of the one true Oglaigh na hEireann, the Irish Defence Forces, and a member of An Garda Siochana, less than ten kilometres out the road from Ballinamore.

All innocent victims have a right to truth and justice across the board. With the Derrada Wood murder victims in mind, John Finucane should not participate in this disgraceful event during a taxpayer-funded festival.

Kenny Donaldson, director of victims group SEFF, described the kidnap of Mr Tidey and the deaths of Mr Kelly and Mr Sheehan as heinous crimes carried out by Provisional IRA insurrectionists who stood opposed to both States on this island.

The holding of an annual commemorative walk for him (Mr McGirl) over the period of Ballinamores busiest time is a cynical ploy from the Provisional Republican Movement to have itself attached to community-based events which have support from large numbers of people, he said.

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This is about the Provisionals mainstreaming individuals and linked events, that it then becomes part of a new norm.

North Belfast MP John Finucane (Liam McBurney/PA)

John Finucane is a victim himself, having had his own father murdered before him. He should be able to empathise with the Kelly and Sheehan families.

We appeal with him to show some understanding and sensitivity for the plight of these families. Do the right thing John Finucane, withdraw from this event which eulogises someone involved in terrorism over a long number of years.

Mr Finucane said: I have always been clear that truth and justice is something which every person impacted by our conflict deserves, and is entitled to, irrespective of whether those who inflicted the harm were loyalists, the British state or republicans.

I have been consistent in this view whether it be personally as a campaigner, professionally as a lawyer, or politically as the MP for north Belfast.

For just as truth and justice applies equally to everyone, so too does the right to remember, and the right to commemorate, and I will be attending what will be a dignified commemoration on August 17th.
The Taoiseach has criticised people who hijacked the Tricolour while standing alongside loyalist paramilitary actors in Belfast and shouting racist abuse.

Violent scenes erupted following an anti-immigration protest in Belfast on Saturday.

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Protesters waving both the Union flag and the Tricolour took part in the protest at the front of Belfast City Hall.

A number of people also carried the Coolock Says No banner, which has been used at protests outside a former Crown Paints factory earmarked to house asylum seekers.

Taoiseach Simon Harris has told people who took part in protests alongside paramilitary actors to leave our flag alone (Brian Lawless/PA)

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Speaking at Government Buildings on Wednesday, Simon Harris said that those who took part in the protest while holding the Irish flag and banner should leave our flag alone and leave the name Coolock alone.

Anybody who travels from really anywhere and thinks they should take the Irish flag with them and stand alongside potentially paramilitary actors in Northern Ireland, shouting racist abuse, threatening people, and indeed, being at the very least in proximity to buildings that were set on fire, is the exact opposite of what the definition of patriotism would be, Mr Harris said.

They are people who bring shame to their community. Theyre not, can I say this, reflective of the Coolock community, and how dare they hijack our flag and the name Coolock, when really what they are is people who are agitating and advocating racism, division, and we should call it out.

Let me just say this as well because Northern Ireland is a very special place, full of very many people who have committed themselves to peace and to inclusion.

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People taking part in an anti-immigration protest outside Belfast City Hall held the Irish flag and the Union flag (Peter Morrison/PA)

Belfast is a very proud city that has worked so hard across the community to promote peace and inclusion. What I must say is, in the face of the thuggery that we saw from some, what we also saw was an incredible gathering of people to talk about welcome and inclusion and the true values of Belfast and of the island of Ireland as well.

What we also saw was, I think unity of purpose from across the political leadership in Northern Ireland.

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I had a very good conversation with the First Minister (Michelle ONeill) over the weekend as well. I know my colleague, the Minister for Justice (Helen McEntee), spoke to the Northern Ireland Minister for Justice (Naomi Long) and that the level of collaboration and work that goes on between the two jurisdictions is as strong, if not stronger than it has ever been.

If you intend to travel from our jurisdiction to commit a crime in another jurisdiction, you too will meet the full rigours of the law. Leave our flag alone. Leave the name Coolock alone, and those racist, horrific scenes that weve seen in recent days should be called out for exactly what they are.
Kellie Harrington's historic gold medal win at last night's Olympics dominates Irish front pages this morning.

The Irish Times leads with a story about and photograph of Harrington following her win, as does almost every other Irish newspaper this morning. The Irish Times, however, also features a story on mother and baby home survivors and a Garda investigation into threats made to Taoiseach Simon Harris's family.

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The Irish Examiner also leads with a story about and picture of the two-time Olympic champion, also featuring a story on deaths in emergency departments and a story about a fall in the amount of second-hand housing stock available.

The Echo leads with a story on worries about the reliability of buses in Cork city.

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The Irish Daily Mail, Irish Daily Mirror, Irish Daily Star, Irish Independent and The Herald all lead with Harrington's win.

Violence on UK streets continues to dominate Thursdays front pages as prosecutors gear up to lay charges against those causing chaos.

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The Daily Telegraph and i lead with reports the UK Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is considering laying terror charges in the aftermath of the riots that saw 400 people arrested.

 The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph:



'Rioters to face terror charges, warns DPP'#TomorrowsPapersToday



Sign up for the Front Page newsletter https://t.co/x8AV4Oomry pic.twitter.com/2beLjceq0N  The Telegraph (@Telegraph) August 6, 2024 Advertisement

Wednesday's front page: Rioter's 'facing terror charges' as police brace for worst day of disorder #TomorrowsPapersToday



Latest: https://t.co/FmBoYa99a6 pic.twitter.com/K1OXmeeSCQ  The i paper (@theipaper) August 6, 2024 Advertisement

UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has warned rioters could face up to 10 years behind bars, the UK Daily Mirror reveals.

Metros front page says a 25-year-old builder was the first person convicted over violent scenes at a Rotherham hotel. He will be sentenced at a later date.

The UK Times says more than 6,000 riot police are on standby as protesters target 30 immigration advice centres across the UK in the wake of the Southport stabbings.

Immigration lawyers have been warned to stay away from their offices and take extra security measures, The Guardian reports.

Wednesdays GUARDIAN: Lawyers fear for safety amid threats from far right #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/v84rpyOgr2  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) August 6, 2024

The Daily Express says Nigel Farage has warned Britain is at a perilous point.

The UK Daily Mail splashes on comments from the DPP, who says he was deeply disturbed by news that children as young as 11 were involved in the riots.

Across the pond, the Financial Times leads on Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate ahead of Novembers US presidential election.

Wednesdays International FINANCIAL Times: Harris bets on Walz as running mate to draw in more working-class voters #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/5OqtEqw0Fn  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) August 6, 2024

Lastly, the UK Daily Star reports pets can become stressed or anxious by their owners flatulence.
A shipwreck found off the southern coast of Sweden has a cargo of nearly 100 bottles of 19th-century champagne and mineral water  but no-one will be allowed to take any of the artefacts without proper authorisation, officials have said.

Though the wrecks location has been known since 2016 and is registered in Swedens National Antiquities Offices cultural environment, it was only on July 11 that Polish scuba divers found the precious cargo.

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The wreck, which sits at about 190ft deep off the coast of the southern Sweden county of Blekinge, was found by the divers while they were checking spots of interest about 20 nautical miles south of the Swedish Baltic Sea island of Oeland.



A Polish divers discovered the wreck last month (Tomasz Stachura/Baltictech via AP)

Wine and water experts have quickly contacted the divers and been vying to carry out laboratory tests on the contents of the bottles, according to the divers leader, Tomasz Stachura.

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However, Swedish authorities have put their foot down and labelled the sunken ship an ancient relic which the county says requires a clear and strong protection to remain intact.

You must not damage the ancient remains, which also includes taking items from the wreck, eg champagne bottles, without permission from the county, Magnus Johansson, a county official told The Associated Press.



The contents of the wreck are said to have been wonderfully preserved (Marek Cacaj/Baltictech via AP)

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The champagne bottles are a fantastically well-preserved find that gives us a snapshot of shipping and life on board at the end of the 19th century, he added.

Had the wreck been from before 1850, it would automatically have been listed as an ancient relic, local authorities said.

But we have established that the cultural and historical values of the wreck were so high that it should be declared as an ancient relic, Daniel Tedenlind, a county official in neighbouring Kalmar.

Mr Stachura, the diver, earlier said it was believed that the cargo could have been on the way to the royal table in Stockholm or the Russian tsars residence in St Petersburg when the ship sank sometime in the second half of the 19th century.
The family of a French explorer who died in a submersible implosion have filed a wrongful death lawsuit seeking more than 50 million dollars (39 million) that accuses the subs operator of gross negligence.

Paul-Henri Nargeolet was among five people who died when the Titan submersible imploded during a voyage to the famed Titanic wreck site in the North Atlantic in June 2023.

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No-one survived the trip aboard the experimental submersible owned by OceanGate, a company in Washington state that has since suspended operations.

Known as Mr Titanic, Mr Nargeolet had visited the Titanic site many times before and was regarded as one of the worlds most knowledgeable people about the famous wreck.



Paul-Henri Nargeolet (Jim Rogash/AP)

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Lawyers for his estate said in an emailed statement that the doomed submersible had a troubled history, and that OceanGate failed to disclose key facts about the vessel and its durability.

According to the lawsuit, the Titan dropped weights about 90 minutes into its dive, indicating the team had aborted or attempted to abort the dive.

While the exact cause of failure may never be determined, experts agree that the Titans crew would have realised exactly what was happening, the lawsuit states. Common sense dictates that the crew were well aware they were going to die, before dying.

The lawsuit goes on to say: The crew may well have heard the carbon fibres crackling noise grow more intense as the weight of the water pressed on Titans hull. The crew lost communications and perhaps power as well.

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By experts reckoning, they would have continued to descend, in full knowledge of the vessels irreversible failures, experiencing terror and mental anguish prior to the Titan ultimately imploding.

A spokesperson for OceanGate declined to comment on the lawsuit, which was filed on Tuesday in King County, Washington.

In their statement, the lawyers, the Buzbee Law Firm of Houston, Texas, said: The lawsuit further alleges that even though Nargeolet had been designated by OceanGate to be a member of the crew of the vessel, many of the particulars about the vessels flaws and shortcomings were not disclosed and were purposely concealed.

Tony Buzbee, one of the lawyers on the case, said one of the goals of the lawsuit is to get answers for the family as to exactly how this happened, who all were involved, and how those involved could allow this to happen.

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Concerns were raised in the aftermath of the disaster about whether the Titan was doomed due to its unconventional design and its creators refusal to submit to independent checks that are standard in the industry.

Its implosion also raised questions about the viability and future of private deep-sea exploration.

The US Coast Guard quickly convened a high-level investigation, which is still ongoing. A key public hearing that is part of the investigation is scheduled to take place in September.

The Titan made its last dive on June 18, 2023, a Sunday morning, and lost contact with its support vessel about two hours later.

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After a search and rescue mission that drew attention around the world, the wreckage of the Titan was found on the ocean floor about 984 feet off the bow of the Titanic, about 435 miles south of St Johns, Newfoundland.

OceanGate chief executive and co-founder Stockton Rush was operating the Titan when it imploded.

In addition to Mr Rush and Mr Nargeolet, the implosion killed British adventurer Hamish Harding and two members of a prominent Pakistani family, Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood.

The company that owns the salvage rights to the Titanic is in the midst of its first voyage to the wreckage site in years.

Last month, RMS Titanic Inc, a Georgia-based firm, launched its first expedition to the site since 2010 from Providence, Rhode Island.

Mr Nargeolet was director of underwater research for RMS Titanic. His estates attorneys described him as a seasoned veteran of underwater exploration who would not have participated in the Titan expedition if the company had been more transparent.
Inquests are to be opened into the deaths of three girls who were fatally stabbed in Southport.

Bebe King, six, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died after a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class at the Hart Space on Monday, July 29th.

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Their inquests will be formally opened at Bootle Town Hall in Merseyside.

Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (Merseyside Police/PA)

Axel Rudakubana, 17, from Lancashire, is set to stand trial next year after being charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

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Family, friends and members of the local community have since paid their respects to the victims of the attack.

Hundreds of floral tributes have been left at the scene of the attack in Hart Street and a number of vigils have taken place in the town to remember the girls.

In a statement, Bebes family said: No words can describe the devastation that has hit our family as we try to deal with the loss of our little girl Bebe.

Alices family said: Keep smiling and dancing like you love to do, our princess, like we said before to you, youre always our princess and no one would change that. Love from Your Hero Daddy and Mummy.

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During a service at St Patricks Church in Southport on Tuesday afternoon, one speaker fought back tears as she said: Alice, you are the most beautiful, strongest girl in the world and I hope you know we love you from the bottom of our hearts. Keep smiling and dancing with the girls.

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She read out another message from the family, which said: We love you Alice, Your smile is extremely contagious and full of joy. You never fail to uplift everyones mood.

The service, led by Father John Heneghan, featured hymns and speeches read in both English and Portuguese.

One of Alices classmates said: You will be in our hearts forever. You are the most kindest person in the world, and we know that you are the strongest girl we have ever met.

A member of staff from Alices school read out messages from her classmates, including one which said: Alice, so kind and caring, with a smile so bright, forever in our hearts.

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The congregation gathered for a rendition of You Are My Sunshine outside the church following the ceremony.

Elsies great-aunt described her as lovely, sweet and gentle, BBC News reported.

Jean Stevenson said her grand-niece was absolutely the sweetest child you could ever wish to meet.

Merseyside Police said all three families are being supported by specialist officers.

Five other children and two adults were seriously injured in the attack at around 11.45am on July 29th.

Around 400 people have since been arrested in riots that spread across the country after the incident.

Around 100 individuals have been charged, according to director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised communities will be safe after a Cobra meeting and said those taking part in the unrest will feel the full force of the law.
The worlds oldest calendar, carved onto an ancient pillar around 12,000 years ago, has been discovered by UK archaeologists.

The timekeeping system, unearthed at the Gobekli Tepe site in mountains of Anatolia in Turkey, suggests people were accurately recording dates 10,000 years before it was documented in Greece in 150 BC.

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Analysing the markings, a team led by the University of Edinburgh found 365 V symbols etched on one of the pillars at the site, each thought to represent a single day.

This calendar also shows 12 lunar months with 11 additional days, the researchers said.

The stone carving discovered in Turkey (Martin Sweatman/University of Edinburgh/PA)

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Additionally, the carvings appear to depict a comet strike that wiped out large animals 13,000 years ago and triggered a mini ice age that lasted 1,200 years.

This event is thought to have shaped human civilisation with new developments in agriculture and religion.

Dr Martin Sweatman, of the University of Edinburghs 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 civilisation by initiating a new religion and by motivating developments in agriculture to cope with the cold climate.

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Possibly, their attempts to record what they saw are the first steps towards the development of writing millennia later.

The Gobekli Tepe site, which features the oldest-known man-made structures, was built by hunter-gatherers between 9,600 and 8,200 BC, predating Stonehenge by more than 6,000 years.

The monuments exact purpose has puzzled experts for decades, although many believe the place was used in connection with rituals, such as funerals.

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The Gobekli Tepe site is home to the oldest-known monumental structures (Marcia Chambers/Alamy/PA)

The markings also depict the summer solstice as a separate, special day, represented by a V worn around the neck of a bird-like beast, the researchers said.

The team also uncovered a second pillar showing a meteor stream that lasted 27 days.

The findings, published in the journal Time And Mind, suggest these ancient humans used precession, the wobble in Earths axis which affects the movement of constellations across the sky, to record dates.

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The markings also appear to show both solar and lunar cycles, which the researchers said could represent the worlds earliest calendar, combining the motions of the sun and moon.
It is difficult to decide whether the latest twist in the tale of Clive Palmers quest to build an exact replica of the Titanic falls into the category of larger-than-life billionaires or truth is stranger than fiction.

This week, Palmer has been ghosted by the chairman of a sinking UK shipbuilding company that he wants to build his dream disaster vessel.

Mining magnate and would-be Titanic II owner Clive Palmer. Credit: Glenn Hunt

Some perspective here. This shipbuilder, Harland & Wolff, is in such a dire financial state that it is passing the hat around to stay afloat. And this week even the UK government refused to throw a lifeline to this iconic boat builder  which (you guessed it) actually built the original Titanic ocean liner.

It seems that Harland & Wolff didnt like the cut of Palmers jib or the colour of his money.
Critical Incident 

Stan, Monday

Take it as a compliment when I say that I was not familiar with the work of those headlining this lit fuse Australian drama. Neither creator Sarah Bassiuoni nor leads Akshay Khanna and Zoe Boe have a slew of prominent credits, and that contributes to the contemporary kick of this policing thriller set in Sydneys western suburbs. While it has a propulsive plot that rarely abates, even when it perhaps occasionally should, this six-part limited series delivers what new talent should: a sense of the here and now.

With a mixture of procedural detail and street hassles, Critical Incident overlays two parallel worlds. Senior Constable Zilficar Zil Ahmed (Khanna) is a young, capable police officer working out of Blacktown station  his nickname is Poster Boy, because his picture is on promotional material emphasising the forces inclusiveness. Dalia Thun (Boe) is a high school student living in a group care home, hypervigilant of even the hint of violence. When another foster child snaps in the next room her fight or flight instincts are painfully palpable.

Akshay Khanna as Senior Constable Ahmed in Critical Incident: parallel worlds. Credit: Stan

When Zil is on plain clothes duty, eyes peeled for a female suspect who assaulted his friend and colleague, Sandra Ali (Roxie Mohebbi), a radio description matches the nearby Dalia. He moves to apprehend her, she panics and flees. On a crowded train platform a bystander is knocked onto the track as a train approaches, to the horror of both, and the shows title is explained with the arrival of detective Edith Barcelos (Simone Kessell), who is tasked with determining whether procedure was followed.
Former A Current Affair reporter Jane Hansen, who co-authored the controversial tell-all book Boned, has died following a long battle with brain cancer.

Hansen passed away on the Gold Coast on Tuesday night, surrounded by loved ones. The family thanked Hansens support network for their extraordinary level of support, love and compassion over the course of her 18-month cancer battle.

Jane Hansen shook Australian commercial TV through the anonymous tell-all book Boned. Credit: 20070920

To all that knew and loved my sister. Jane passed away peacefully at approximately 11.40pm, 6 August, said the statement.

Jane put up an amazing fight right until the end and never once complained, and never lost her sense of humour this whole time.
The kayak cross at the Paris Olympics was exhilarating for two reasons. Firstly, it was introduced to the Games only this year. Secondly, it saw two Australian sisters, who happen to be some of the strongest paddlers in the world, come bow to bow.

On Sunday, Jess and Noemie Fox hit the water to determine who would progress to the quarter-finals the following day. The latter clinched the win, going on to win the gold medal. But despite Noemies victory, practically every headline still mentioned her sister Jess, a three-time Olympic gold medallist.

The kayak cross win by Noemie Fox (left) was described as stepping out of her sister Jess shadow. Why are so many siblings pitted against each other? Credit: AP

Noemie Fox emulates sister Jess by winning Paris 2024 gold with kayak cross victory, The Guardian wrote. Elsewhere, the ABC described Noemies achievement as stepping out of sister Jess shadow.

For those with siblings, this may sound all too familiar. Whether its the fact that your sister owns a house while you rent, or that your brother got promoted at work while you stagnate, sibling rivalry can be as common as it is brutal. Why do so many of us struggle with these feelings of inadequacy, and is there a way to overcome them?
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?

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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.
The number of complaints made by Australians over payment scams has surged over the last financial year, with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) reporting an 81 per cent increase  significantly more than any other type of complaint.

AFCA receives complaints about many financial services providers, including super funds and insurers, but issues about banks facilitating payments to scammers via transaction accounts is a major issue for complainants. Total complaints to the authority for the past financial year rose 9 per cent.

Assistant Treasurer and Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones says prevention of scams is the first line of defence. Credit: Sydney Morning Herald

Stephanie Tonkin, the chief executive of the Consumer Action Law Centre, describes the increase as off the charts. She says it shows banks are not doing enough to stop payments to scammers in the first place, and not doing enough to provide customers with redress.

Overall, however, the good news is that financial losses from scams declined in 2023, for the first time in many years, likely due to the impact of targeted and co-ordinated disruption activities, though the number of scam reports continued to rise.
My husband is 56, and I am 50. We have a debt free home worth $650,000 and have around $300,000 each in super and some savings, I have a few shares. We are late starters to investing but wonder if it is too late in life to buy one or two investment properties.

Its never too late to start, but its important to adopt a strategy that will not maximise any risks because you are now at a stage where its difficult to recover from a setback.

While its never too late to start investing, there are a few crucial considerations to keep in mind before you buy an investment property. Credit: Simon Letch

In my experience, investment properties are not a good investment for people in the later stages of their employment career. Success in real estate depends on being able to find an undervalued property to which you can add value  thats hard to do these days and almost impossible to do if you buy an apartment.

Furthermore, you are at the mercy of interest rate rises, and you will find your costs may increase faster than rents as years go by. Then, if during your retirement you wish to take some money out of the property portfolio you need to sell the entire building and pay capital gains tax. You cant sell the back steps.
A dramatic drop in international students would push Australias fragile economy into a recession, a leading economist says, as Labor moves ahead with its controversial plan to limit foreign enrolments as part of its bid to drive down migration.

Professor Richard Holden, an economist from UNSW Business School, said his analysis showed a return to 2019 international student numbers would cause an $11.6 billion hit to Australias economy in 2025 alone, almost 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product.

An economist has warned Australia could enter a recession if theres a large drop in international students. Credit: Oscar Colman

That could easily be enough to tip Australia into an actual recession, he said. Its not just the tuition fees that international students pay. They pay rent, they spend money on food and entertainment, and they travel. And that spending in the broader economy  thats where a lot of businesses are really struggling at the moment.

The federal government has used international students as a key lever to meet its goal of slashing net immigration from 520,000 in the 2023 financial year to 260,000 by June next year.
There will be no changes to public servant hybrid work arrangements in Queensland amid contrasting views between the Sunshine States premier and his NSW counterpart.

Steven Miles has flagged the Queensland government has no impetus to change current flexible working arrangements for the public sector.

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It follows comments from NSW Premier Chris Minns, who said a return to office and face-to-face work was a long time coming, four-years after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minns said his governments directive was about building up a culture in the public service thats about teamwork, a common and shared sense of purpose, as well as mentoring the next generation of young public servants.

Queensland  the most decentralised state in the nation  will not adopt the same route, with Miles backing flexibility in public service work.

We dont have any plans at this stage to change the current arrangements, Miles said on Thursday.

I understand New South Wales is in a somewhat different position to Queensland.

Our economy continues to be strong, our CBD has come back more strongly and, of course, as of this week, were starting to see public transport usage closer to those pre-COVID levels.

Those arrangements are generally based on negotiations in each workplace and based on the needs of each workplace.

AAP
The man in charge of the tactical police response to the fatal Wieambilla siege has described how he feared the three shooters could escape into the community and potentially flee south over the border into NSW.

With two young police constables gunned down, and two other offers barely escaping with their lives, it was the teams most dangerous mission, Superintendent Tim Partridge told a coronial inquest into the December 12, 2022, shooting.

In audio played to the inquest, police could be heard shouting at the shooters, Gareth, Nathaniel and Stacey Train, repeatedly to put down their firearms.

To the female in the building, place your hands up, one could be heard yelling. Another yells: watch her in the windows, watch her in the windows, in reference to Stacey.
Moscow: Russia said it was fighting intense battles against Ukrainian forces that had penetrated its southern border near a major natural gas transmission hub, in one of the largest incursions into Russian territory since the war began.

The acting governor of Kursk region, Alexey Smirnov, said he had introduced a state of emergency in the border region. Regional officials said that meant restricting access to specific areas.

This photo released by the acting Governor of Kursk region shows a damaged house after shelling by the Ukrainian side in the city of Sudzha, Kursk region that borders Ukraine. Credit: AP

Russias health ministry said 31 civilians, including six children, had been wounded. No information on military casualties was available.

Russias National Guard said it had beefed up security around the nearby Kursk nuclear power station and its four reactors.
Last week, I found myself engrossed in hours of viral videos featuring Tim Walz. Like countless others, I was captivated by his message and plain-spoken communication style. But unlike the millions hearing him speak for the first time, I had experienced this before two decades ago at Mankato West High School in Minnesota.

Back then, he was my teacher. But the man US Vice President Kamala Harris named as her running mate on Tuesday has not changed one bit.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential nominee, at a campaign rally on Tuesday. Credit: AP

Walz and I lived in Mankato, a plain, suburban town of 50,000 people surrounded by corn fields. Our district is home to one of the best hospitals in the world, the Mayo Clinic, and the Jolly Green Giant canned vegetable company. The next city over produces the worlds supply of Spam.

Until our district voted for Donald Trump by 10 points in 2022, I had never been sure if my home town was conservative or progressive; it was the kind of place where it was considered rude to talk about politics or religion with strangers.
Bogota, Colombia: Souvenirs depicting the late Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar could be banned in Colombia if legislators approve a bill introduced this week in the nations congress. The proposal is criticised by vendors who sell his merchandise to tourists from around the world, but backed by those who believe the country should shed its image of mafia bosses.

The bill proposes fines of up to $US170 ($260) 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.

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. Credit: AP

These items are re-victimising 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.
Amid the ongoing political crisis in Bangladesh, global apparel brand H&M said on Wednesday that it is continuously monitoring the developments in Dhaka, and will not seek any delay-related discounts from the suppliers based in the country.

According to the latest information, most of the factories are gradually opening up again, and safety remains a priority. We have expressed to our suppliers that we would not seek any discount due to delays that might happen under the current circumstances. We continue assessing the situation daily, a company spokesperson said. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp

Bangladesh and China are the prime hubs for producing clothing for H&M.

We are maintaining a close dialogue with our business partners and other stakeholders, and we welcome the steps taken for greater stability in the country, the spokesperson added.

According to the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), several major global brands that rely on Bangladesh for their sourcing needs will be affected. Brands with significant portions of their supply chains rooted in Bangladesh may experience delays and a decrease in the availability of their products. This, in turn, could lead to a ripple effect across the global retail market, hitting inventory levels and sales.

Inditex, which owns brands like Zara and Bershka, has significant manufacturing clusters in the country. According to its 2023 annual report, the group had 150 suppliers with purchases in the year, with 273 sewing factories associated with purchases, and a total workforce of 965,797 associated manufacturers.

However, an email sent to the company did not elicit a response.

Bangladeshs growth in the textile sector has been inspiring and has lent strength to the trade flows in the subcontinent. While we are concerned about the impact on the supply chain and the potential delays and disruptions it might cause, we are hopeful that the situation will improve soon, Chandrima Chatterjee, secretary general, CITI said.

The Apparel Export Promotion Council chairman Sudhir Sekhri said buyers are concerned because of the escalation of civil unrest in Bangladesh.

"In the short term, fast fashion buyers have no option but to pull out their orders from Bangladesh and place them elsewhere," Sekhri said.

Most of these orders are in man-made fabrics, purchased from buyer-nominated sources in China, Korea, and Europe.

Shifting these short-delivery orders using special imported fabrics to India is not viable, given Indias current import policies. Only orders in fabrics of Indian origin are expected to be shifted to Indian factories, he added.
A special Air India flight successfully evacuated 205 individuals, including six infants, from Dhaka to New Delhi on Wednesday morning. The chartered flight, operated with an A321 neo aircraft, departed for the Bangladeshi capital late Tuesday, overcoming significant infrastructure challenges at Dhaka airport amid escalating political turmoil in Bangladesh.

The special evacuation flight returned to New Delhi early Wednesday with 199 adults and six infants on board. The flight, which initially took off from New Delhi without any passengers, was arranged at very short notice. Despite the challenging conditions, Air India managed to coordinate the operation efficiently. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp

Indian airlines resume operations to Bangladesh

Air India announced the commencement of its scheduled operations to Dhaka, with two daily flights from New Delhi starting Wednesday. The airline had earlier cancelled its Tuesday morning flight but successfully operated the evening flight to Dhaka.

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Air India confirmed that it would operate its evening flights AI237/238 on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi sector. Vistara and IndiGo, which had also cancelled their flights to Dhaka on Tuesday, are set to resume their services as scheduled.

Vistara operates daily flights from Mumbai and three weekly services from Delhi to Dhaka. IndiGo typically runs one daily flight from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to Dhaka, along with two daily services from Kolkata.

Waiver for Air India passengers on rescheduling

Due to the prevailing situation in Bangladesh, Air India offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling for passengers with confirmed bookings on any of its flights to and from Dhaka between August 4 and 7. This waiver is applicable for tickets booked on or before August 5.

Political crisis and unrest in Bangladesh





ALSO READ: Bangladesh army refused to suppress protest, sealing ex-PM Hasina's fate Bangladesh is currently experiencing severe political unrest following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Massive street protests, initially sparked by a job quota scheme, evolved into a widespread movement demanding Hasina's removal from power. After ruling Bangladesh for 15 years, Hasina resigned on Monday and fled the country.

The protest had initially broken out in July when the Hasina-led government sought to overturn the Supreme Court order that had halted the reservation of more than 50 per cent of government jobs. In 2018, the overall reservation had been reduced to 10 per cent from 56 per cent following student protests that lasted more than four months.

In July, the protest turned violent, leading to hundreds of deaths, mostly of students. There was a short moment of reprieve when the Bangladeshi government released a gazette notification rolling back the reservations. However, protests once again rose as protesting groups demanded the Prime Minister take responsibility for the deaths, issue a public apology, restore internet connection, and reopen higher education institutions. The demonstrations quickly spiralled as protesters sought Hasina's resignation.

Hasina's cabinet tried to blame the unrest on its opposition party and accused them of orchestrating a "conspiracy" against Hasina.

Hindus targeted in Bangladesh unrest

On Monday night, 24 people, including an Indonesian citizen, were burned alive by a mob in Jashore district. The mob set fire to the Zabeer International Hotel, owned by Shahin Chakkladar, a leader of the Awami League, resulting in the death of hotel guests trapped in the blaze.





ALSO READ: Bangladesh crisis: 24 burnt alive by mob, temples damaged. Top updates The unrest has also seen attacks on Hindu communities, who make up about 8 per cent of Bangladeshs population and have traditionally supported the Awami League. Reports indicate that Hindu homes, businesses, and temples have been targeted and vandalised in the wake of Hasinas ouster.

(With agency inputs)
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has asked banks issuing RuPay credit cards to ensure parity on reward points and benefits from September 1.

The payments regulator, in a directive, has asked banks issuing RuPay credit cards to ensure that reward points and other offers on RuPay credit cards for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions are not lower than those available for RuPay credit cards, except in cases where the issuer does not receive an interchange fee. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp

The directive comes after NPCI observed that reward points, benefits, and features for RuPay credit cards on UPI transactions are not equivalent to those offered on RuPay credit card transactions.

Issuers shall ensure that reward points, benefits, features, and other ancillary offers should not be lower (directly & indirectly) for RuPay Credit Cards on UPI transactions and RuPay credit cards, except for transactions where issuer does not earn any interchange fee, it said in the circular.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in June 2022, allowed linking RuPay credit cards with UPI, which until then was being used as a pay now facility, where money was debited from customers bank account directly for any transaction. In October 2023, the NPCI announced that interchange fees would be applicable on RuPay-UPI transactions. The interchange fee for RuPay credit card merchants on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 is around 2 per cent. However, the customer do not have to pay any charges for carrying out transactions.

Following this, several banks began offering digital versions of their existing credit cards to customers but it came as a RuPay card.

RuPay Credit Cards on UPI provide a seamless, digitally enabled credit card lifecycle experience for the customers, who benefit from the increased opportunity to use their cards. Merchants benefit from the increase in consumption by being part of the credit ecosystem with acceptance of credit cards using asset lite QR codes.

As many as 16 banks facilitate the product, including Punjab National Bank, Union Bank, Indian bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, ICICI Bank.

Both, RBI and NPCI, are promoting credit on UPI as a game-changer because it has the potential to provide seamless access to credit to millions, making credit more convenient and affordable. Currently, credit on UPI is available through two offerings  RuPay credit card on UPI and 'Credit Line on UPI.

Earlier this week, NPCI Managing Director and Chief Executive, Dilip Asbe, had stated that credit transactions on UPI are touching Rs 10,000 crore each month, of which approximately Rs 100-200 crore is from the credit line on UPI facility, while the remainder comes from the Rupay credit card on UPI facility.
India is monitoring the situation of minorities in Bangladesh and is in "close and continuous" touch with the Indian community there through its diplomatic missions, the government said on Tuesday. Reading out a statement both in Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar further said India naturally remains deeply concerned till law and order is visibly restored in the neighbouring country and that it has instructed its border guarding forces to be exceptionally alert in view of the complex and still evolving situation there. Jaishankar briefed the MPs on former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's "very short notice" request to come to India "for the moment". Hasina arrived in India Monday evening in a Bangladesh Air Force aircraft, after she had to quit as prime minister with the country plunging into uncertainty in the wake of violent street protests over job quota.

A total of 132 money laundering cases have been registered against sitting and former MPs and MLAs apart from political leaders over the last six years, the government informed Parliament on Tuesday. Minister of state for finance Pankaj Chaudhary shared figures related to the Enforcement Directorate filing enforcement case information reports (ECIRs), cases under trial and convictions as part of a written reply in the Rajya Sabha. He gave a breakup of ECIRs recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against "existing and ex-MPs, MLAs, MLCs and political leaders or anyone affiliated with any political party" between January 1, 2019 to July 31 this year.

Average processing time of income tax returns has reduced from 93 days in 2013 to 10 days now," said FM Sitharaman in Lok Sabha on Wednesday.Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya spoke in the Lower House today on the disqualification of wrestler Vinesh Phogat at the Olympics. As the news of Phogat's disqualification broke, Opposition MPs had protested in the House during the Zero Hour demanding a statement from the government over the issue. Some MPs also trooped into the Well of the House raising slogans demanding that the sports minister should answer.The Congress party announced that its whip Manickam Tagore will introduce an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha today for a debate on 'Caste-based Census.' Before the Lok Sabha elections, the Congress had pledged to conduct a caste census if voted into power. The Lok Sabha will consider and vote on the Finance Bill for the financial year 2024-2025. This bill was moved by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on August 6.
China hopes social stability to be restored soon in Bangladesh: FM

Xinhua) 14:05, August 07, 2024

BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- China hopes that social stability will be restored soon in Bangladesh, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday.

The spokesperson made the remarks when asked to comment on Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation.

"China is following closely the developments in Bangladesh. As a friendly neighbor and comprehensive strategic cooperative partner of Bangladesh, China sincerely hopes that social stability will be restored soon in the country," said the spokesperson.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Geneva, Switzerland (PANA) - The UN human rights office, OHCHR, has expressed horror at the escalating pattern of Israeli Defence Force (IDF) strikes on schools in Gaza, which have killed at least 163 internally displaced Palestinians, including children and women, in the past month
Shares of Suzlon Energy locked in 5 per cent upper circuit at Rs 69.57 per share on the BSE in Wednesdays trading session. The stock price jump followed an acquisition done by the company on Tuesday worth Rs 620 crore.

The company has signed definitive agreements to acquire a 76 per cent stake in Renom Energy Services Private Limited from the Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG). The acquisition will occur in two stages. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp

In the first stage, Suzlon will acquire a 51 per cent stake for Rs 400 crore. The second stage involves acquiring an additional 25 per cent stake within the next 18 months for Rs 260 crore.

Renom Energy Services is a leading multi-brand operations and maintenance services (MBOMS) provider in India, managing assets including 1,782 mega watts (MW) in wind, 148 MW in solar, and 572 MW in balance of plant across various customer segments.

Suzlon stated that this acquisition will enhance Renoms capabilities, positioning it to become a leading independent service provider (ISP) and steward of multi-brand renewable energy assets. The deal will also allow Renom to tap into the substantial market potential of over 32 GW of non-Suzlon wind energy assets currently in the country, the company said in an exchange filing.

Girish Tanti, Vice Chairman of Suzlon Group, commented, As India aims for 500 GW of renewable energy installations by 2030, a diverse range of technologies and wind turbines will emerge. Renom, as a major player in this sector, has significant potential to expand further. This acquisition supports Suzlon Groups strategy to grow while protecting Indias renewable energy assets, regardless of their origin.

The market capitalisation of Suzlon Energy is Rs 94,854 crore, according to the BSE. At 12:57 PM; the BSE Sensex surged by 0.73 per cent to 79,167 levels.

Suzlon is a leading global renewable energy solutions provider with over two decades in the industry. It operates in 17 countries across six continents and has installed over 19.1 GW of wind energy. The company owns various subsidiaries, including Suzlon Energy Limited, and is focusing on carbon-neutral processes, strong solar power capabilities, and plans to offer Wind-Solar hybrid solutions.
1. What's the Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd share price today?

Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd share price was Rs 288.45 at 04:01 PM IST on 9th Oct 2024 . Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd share price was down by 1.75 % from the previous closing price of Rs 293.60 . Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd share price trend:

Last 1 Month: Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd share price moved down by 3.50 % on BSE

Last 3 Months: Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd share price moved down by 3.01 % on BSE

Last 12 Months: Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd share price moved up by 58.69 % on BSE

Last 3 Years: Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd price moved up by 79.25 % on BSE

2. How can I quickly analyse the performance of the Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd stock?

The performance of the Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd stock can be quickly analysed on the following metrics:

The stock's PE is 7.94

Price to book value ratio is 1.08

Dividend yield of 4.17

The EPS (trailing 12 months) of the Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd stock is Rs 36.35

3. What is the market cap of Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd ?

Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd has a market capitalisation of Rs 3,62,878 crore.



4. What is Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd 's 52-week high/low share price?

The Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd s 52-week high share price is Rs 344.60 and 52-week low share price is Rs 179.80 .



5. Is the Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd profitable?

On a consolidated basis, Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd reported a profit of Rs 8,938.10 crore on a total income of Rs 37,327.27 crore for the quarter ended 2024 . For the year ended Jun 2024 , Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd had posted a profit of Rs 10,235.64 crore on a total income of Rs 1,69,777.32 crore.



6. Which are Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd s peers in the Oil & Gas sector?

Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd s top 5 peers in the Oil & Gas sector are O N G C, Oil India, Hind.Oil Explor., Deep Industries .



7. Who owns how much in Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd ?

Key changes to the Oil & Natural Gas Corpn Ltd shareholding are as follows:
The Nothing Phone 2a Plus is now available for purchase in India. The mid-range smartphone from UK-based consumer technology brand is available on e-commerce platform Flipkart and select retail stores such as Croma and Vijay Sales. Based on the Nothing Phone 2a, which debuted earlier this year, the plus model brings performance improvement with the new MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro chip, new 50MP front facing camera sensor, and some changes in design. Here are the details:

Nothing Phone 2a Plus: Price and variants Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp 8GB RAM + 256GB storage: Rs 27,999

12GB RAM + 256GB storage: Rs 29,999 Colour options: Grey and Black

Nothing Phone 2a Plus: Availability and introductory offers

The Nothing Phone 2a Plus is now available in India on e-commerce platform Flipkart and offline at select retail stores including Croma and Vijay Sales. As for the introductory offer, customers can avail a discount of Rs 2,000 on select bank cards.

Nothing Phone 2a Plus: Details

While the overall design of the Nothing Phone 2a Plus is identical to that of the standard model, there are subtle changes. The Phone 2a Plus does not have coloured accents underneath the transparent back panel. Additionally, the smartphone features elements underneath with metallic finish.

Besides some cosmetic changes, there is a new processor on-board  MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G  which Nothing said brings performance improvements, especially with regard to graphics. The Phone 2a Plus also features a new 50MP front facing camera sensor. While the battery capacity of 5000mAh on the Plus model remains the same as the Phone 2a, there is now support for faster 50W wired charging.

Nothing Phone 2a Plus: Specifications

Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, 10-bit, fullHD, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass 5

Rear camera: 50MP main (Samsung GN9) with optical image stabilisation + 50MP ultra-wide-angle (Samsung JN1)

Front camera: 50MP

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro

RAM: 8GB and 12GB

Storage: 256GB

Battery: 5,000 mAh

Charging: 50W, wired. No wireless charging

Software: Android 14

UI: Nothing OS 2.6

Support: Three years of Android updates and four years of security patches
Samsung has enabled its Galaxy AI-powered Live Translate feature on select third-party messaging apps, including Metas instant messaging platform WhatsApp, Google Meet, and Telegram. In July, Samsung announced that the Live Translate feature will soon work with third-party apps for voice calls. The feature has been available on Samsungs native calling app but is now getting support for other apps as well.

Samsungs Live Translate offers translations between languages for messages and calls in real time. The feature works through on-device processing and Samsung has said that user data is stored locally on the device and not sent through the server. At the time of announcement, Samsung confirmed that the entire processing of real-time call translation for third-party apps will also take place on-device for users privacy. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp

Since this feature has been integrated into our on-device AI language translation model, users will be able to experience barrier-free communication without worrying about privacy issues like personal data being shared outside their phone when using Live Translate, said Samsungs EVP and head of Mobile research and development, Won-Joon Choi in his editorial note published on Samsung newsroom.

Samsungs Live Translate support

While Samsung has not officially revealed the list of apps that support the Live Translate, the feature is available for WhatsApp, Telegram and Google Meet. The AI-powered live translation feature currently does not support Ciscos Webex and Zoom, however, it could expand to more third-party applications in the future.

It should also be noted that third-party apps are getting the support for Live Translate only on select Samsung devices that support Galaxy AI. These devices include the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S23 Series, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 6, Z Flip 5, Z Flip 6, Galaxy Tab S9 series, and more.

How to enable Live Translate for third-party apps

Go to Settings on an eligible Samsung device

Tap on Galaxy AI and select the Call Assist option

Scroll down to the Live Translate in other apps option

You will see a list of available apps that support the Live Translate feature

Enable the preferred apps

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The rise of artificial intelligence may reshape the landscape more quickly and profoundly than any judge ever could Image: Bloomberg

A federal judge has branded Google as a ruthless monopolist bent on suffocating it competitors. But how do you go about creating alternatives to a search engine that's synonymous with internet exploration?



It's a process that may take years to unfold as Google appeals the landmark decision issued Monday by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta. And with that kind of time frame looming, the forces of technological upheaval may make the exercise moot. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp The rise of artificial intelligence may reshape the landscape more quickly and profoundly than any judge ever could. The way consumers navigate the internet is more likely to be affected by advances in AI products such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's own Gemini before a nearly 4-year-old case brought by the US Justice Department is finally resolved.

Even so, Mehta's 277-page ruling Monday creates challenges for Google that company founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin probably didn't envision when they set out to revolutionize internet search while attending Stanford University as graduate students. They eventually dcompany in 1998 that adopted Don't Be Evil as a motto that also was meant to serve as its corporate conscience.ropped out to start a Silicon Valley

Page and Brin, who remain the controlling shareholders of Google's corporate parent Alphabet Inc., also cast their cuddly startup as a crusader for technology that would be far better than the products coming out of Microsoft, the industry's reigning kingpin at the time. Microsoft's dominance of personal computer software and anticompetitive tactics during the 1990s spurred another Justice Department case that ended up hobbling Microsoft and helped make it easier for Google to build its lead in search and then expand into maps, cloud computing, email (Gmail), web browsers (Chrome) and video (YouTube).

Now, the script has been flipped, with Google facing potential legal constraints, while a resurgent Microsoft has been making early headway in AI with a major helping hand from its investment in OpenAI. In one of the most dramatic scenarios that most experts think is unlikely to happen, Google might be forced to break up its business similar to how AT&T once known as Ma Bell ended up spinning off its telephone subsidiaries into separate Baby Bells more than 40 years ago.

It will be left to Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who took over the company's leadership from Page in 2015, to minimize the distractions caused by the legal skirmishing still to come and remain focused on an industrywide pivot to AI technology that's expected to be as revolutionary as the mobile computing shift by Apple's introduction of the iPhone in 2007.

The debate about how Google should be overhauled will begin Sept. 6 with a hearing scheduled in Washington, D.C., before Mehta, who also presided over the 10-week trial last year that led to his antitrust decision.

Google also will be pursing an appeal, based on its long-held contention that it has done nothing wrong but build and maintain a search engine that has been far superior to anything else for more than 20 years. The Mountain View, California, company also maintains that competition is just a few clicks away, with consumers still free to go to other options, such as Microsoft's Bing, DuckDuckGo and, more recently, AI-powered alternatives such as Perplexity and ChatGPT.

Although Mehta praised the quality of Google's search engine in his ruling and acknowledged the company initially became the people's preferred choice in its early days, he concluded it resorted to unfair tactics to maintain its leadership during the past decade. Google did it, Mehta said, mainly by negotiating lucrative deals to cement a position as the default search engine on the iPhone and wide range of other devices, including PCs.

Those deals, which totaled $26 billion in 2021 alone, meant Google automatically processed search requests unless consumers took the time to manually go into their settings and choose another option something that few do. The default option then helped Google collect valuable insights that enabled the company to improve its search engine in ways that rivals couldn't because they lacked the same data.

Default requests processed accounted for 60% of Google's search traffic in 2017, Mehta pointed out in his ruling, and that volume in turn created more opportunities to sell the ads that generate the majority of its parent company's $307 billion in annual revenue.

Mehta's focus on the default search deals in his ruling make it likely he may decide to ban them after the next trial phase is completed, according to antitrust experts. That could have implications for other companies besides Google, especially Apple, which pockets about $20 billion annually from an arrangement that is currently scheduled to continue through 2026, with options to extend the alliance into 2028.

Apple didn't respond to a request for comment about Mehta's decision, but its executives have depicted the decision to make Google the default search engine on the iPhone and other products as a convenience to its customers most of whom prefer to use Google.

But an order preventing Apple from doing default search engine deals with Google could do more than just siphon away revenue. It might also require Apple to spend heavily to develop its own search technology an endeavor that Google estimated would cost more than $30 billion as part of 2020 analysis that Mehta cited in his ruling. Then, it would cost Apple an additional $7 billion annually to sustain its own search engine, according to Google's analysis.
According to court documents, Merchant orchestrated a plot to assassinate a politician or US government officials on US soil. Photo: Shutterstock

A 46-year-old Pakistani national with close ties to Iran was on Tuesday charged in connection with a foiled plot to assassinate a politician or US government officials on American soil, authorities here said. Asif Raza Merchant was charged in a complaint unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn with murder-for-hire as part of a scheme to assassinate a politician or US government officials on its soil. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Law enforcement foiled the charged plot before any attack could be carried out. Merchant, who has stated that he has a wife and children in Iran and a wife and children in Pakistan, is in federal custody in New York.

US Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement that 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 Qasem Soleimani.

US Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York said that working on behalf of others overseas, Merchant planned the murder of US government officials on American soil.

FBI Director Christopher Wray said the dangerous murder-for-hire plot allegedly was orchestrated by a Pakistani national with close ties to Iran and is straight out of the Iranian playbook.

According to court documents, Merchant orchestrated a plot to assassinate a politician or US government officials on US soil.

In April 2024, after spending time in Iran, Merchant arrived in the United States from Pakistan and contacted a person he believed could assist him with the scheme. That person reported Merchant's conduct to law enforcement and became a confidential source.

In early June, Merchant met the confidential source in New York and explained his assassination plot. Merchant told the individual the opportunity he had for the person was not a one-time opportunity and would be ongoing.

Merchant then made a finger gun motion with his hand, indicating that the opportunity was related to a killing.

Merchant further stated that the intended victims would be targeted here, meaning in the United States.

Merchant instructed the individual to arrange meetings with others whom he could hire to carry out these actions. Merchant explained that his plot involved multiple criminal schemes including stealing documents or USB drives from a target's home; planning a protest; and killing a politician or government official.

Merchant at the meeting began planning potential assassination scenarios and quizzed the individual on how he would kill a target in the various scenarios.

Specifically, Merchant asked to explain how the target would die in different scenarios. Merchant told the individual that there would be security all around the person.

Merchant stated that the assassination would occur after he left the United States and he would communicate with the individual from overseas using code words. The source asked whether Merchant had spoken to the unidentified party back home with whom Merchant was working.

Merchant responded that he had and the party back home told him to finalise the plan and leave the United States.

In mid-June, Merchant met with the purported hitmen, who were undercover US law enforcement officers in New York. Merchant advised the undercover officers that he was looking for three services from them: theft of documents, arranging protests at political rallies, and for them to kill a political person.

Merchant said the hitmen would receive instructions on who to kill either the last week of August or the first week of September after he had departed the United States.

Merchant then began arranging means to obtain USD 5,000 in cash to pay the undercover officers as an advance payment for the assassination, which he eventually received with assistance from an individual overseas.

On June 21, Merchant met with the undercover officers in New York and paid them the USD 5,000 advance. One of the undercover officers stated: Now we're bonded, to which Merchant responded: Yes.

The undercover officer added: Now we know we're going forward. We're doing this, to which Merchant responded, Yes, absolutely.

Merchant subsequently made flight arrangements and planned to leave the United States on July 12 when law enforcement agents placed him under arrest before he could leave the country.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has described the riots as far-right thuggery, on Monday said the government would deploy a standing army of specialist police officers to quell the unrest | (Photo: Reuters)

The British government has called on Elon Musk to act responsibly after the tech billionaire used his social media platform X to unleash a barrage of posts that officials say risk inflaming the violent unrest gripping the country. Justice Minister Heidi Alexander made the comments Tuesday morning after Musk posted a comment saying that Civil war is inevitable in the U.K. Musk later doubled down, highlighting complaints that the British criminal justice system treats Muslims more leniently than far-right activists and comparing Britain's crackdown on social media users to the Soviet Union. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp

Use of language such as a civil war' is in no way acceptable,' Alexander told Times Radio. 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.'



Britain has been shaken by violence for more than a week, as police clashed with crowds spouting anti-immigrant and Islamophobic slogans in cities and towns from Northern Ireland to the south coast of England. The unrest began after right-wing activists used social media to spread misinformation about a knife attack that killed three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event on July 29.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has described the riots as far-right thuggery, said after an emergency meeting with law enforcement officials and government ministers Tuesday that perpetrators will swiftly be punished.

More than 400 people have been arrested due to violence in more than two dozen towns and cities and about 100 have been charged, after Starmer announced plans to ramp up the criminal justice system.

An 18-year-old man who trashed police cars in Bolton, in northern England, on Sunday was believed to be the first person sentenced in the unrest. James Nelson got a two-month prison term Tuesday after pleading guilty in Manchester Magistrates' Court to criminal damage, police 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, Starmer said.

Starmer deflected questions from reporters about Musk, saying his focus was on keeping communities safe.

The government is calling on social media companies, such as Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, to do more to combat the spread of misleading and inflammatory information online.

Alexander said Tuesday that the government would look at strengthening the existing Online Safety Act, which was approved last year and won't be fully implemented until 2025.

We've been working with the social media companies, and some of the action that they've taken already with the automatic removal of some false information is to be welcomed, Alexander told the BBC. But there is undoubtedly more that the social media companies could and should be doing.

That type of rhetoric may be part of what sparked Musk's attack on the government. Musk has taken a more combative approach to his critics than was the norm in Silicon Valley technology firms, said Alex Krasodomski, who studies the intersection between technology and politics at Chatham House, a London-based think tank.

He has sparred with U.K. and EU policymakers in the past when they have questioned his approaches to content moderation on the platform, Krasodomski said.

X didn't respond to an email seeking comment. It rarely responds to media requests.

Musk just kept wading into the debate about the violence in Britain.

After Starmer posted a comment on X saying that the government will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities, Musk responded with the question, Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on (asterisk)all(asterisk) communities?



Musk attached a similar comment to a video that said it showed a Muslim patrol attacking a pub in Birmingham, highlighting the original post for his 193 million followers.

Such comments are vintage Musk, who has a history of making provocative statements, said Stephanie Alice Baker, a sociologist at City University of London who has studied online discourse. Musk frequently comments on geopolitical issues and his fans come to his defense when he is criticized, Baker said.

Earlier this year, he clashed with a Brazilian supreme court justice over free speech, far-right accounts and purported misinformation on X. He also accused Venezuela's socialist president, Nicols Maduro, of major election fraud after last week's disputed election.

Those comments are closely watched by a group of people attracted by his success in business, Baker said.

Musk's following represents the cult of the entrepreneur she said. By questioning convention, they are depicted as gifted visionaries, who can predict the future and bring it into being. For his fans and followers, Musk's impulsive comments are perceived as part of his genius.
Sunday, August 4, 2024 at 4:37PM

Photo: Apple

Apple's highly anticipated AI features, collectively known as Apple Intelligence, will not be included in the upcoming iPhone launch in September. According to multiple sources, the tech giant plans to release the AI capabilities through a software update in October.

While Apple is set to introduce Apple Intelligence to developers this week with the iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 betas, the service will be exclusive to devices equipped with the A17 and M series chips.

Certain older models, including the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and specific iPad Pro and iPad Air tablets, will also receive the AI features.

The delay comes amid regulatory challenges in the European Union. Apple has cited concerns over data privacy and security in response to the EU's Digital Markets Act, which mandates interoperability between different platforms. As a result, Phone Mirroring, SharePlay Screen, and Apple Intelligence will not be available to EU users in 2024.

Source
A GORESBRIDGE resident has vowed to be a voice for the voiceless as he announces his intention to stand as an Independent in the Carlow/Kilkenny constituency at the next general election.

Tom Healy, a native of Dublin, now lives in Goresbridge with his wife Bridget. He is an economist who formerly served in a number of government departments as well as the Economic and Social Research Institute and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. He holds a PhD in economics-sociology from UCD (2005).

Tom has also served as director of the trade union think tank the Nevin Economic Research Institute and is an active volunteer in the Society of St Vincent de Paul, a trade unionist, a pro-life activist and lay minister. Tom is also a writer, speaker and author of numerous publications, including An Ireland worth working for (2019).

In our communities and in the counties of Carlow and Kilkenny, we can work together to build a prosperous and thriving region of Ireland, said Tom.

I have much in common with other candidates, including a commitment to expand and reform our public services. I am different to most other candidates because I speak out and act on issues of economic and social justice, regardless of whether this is popular or expedient to do so. What you hear and see is what you get.

Tom vows that Independent means independent, adding that if elected he will not vote for a Fianna Fail or Fine Gael-led government. Neither will I vote for an alternative government unless it offers protections to human rights in key areas outlined in my manifesto, he said.

Tom stated that four core principles uniquely mark him out as a candidate, including a commitment to protecting all human life from its beginning to its natural end, a resolute opposition to the politics of hatred and division espoused by the far right, a pledge to work for a new economic and social model founded on principles of solidarity and the common good, and uncompromising support for international solidarity and European social and democratic values. Tom stated that he will also fight for the right to housing to be included in our constitution and a sustained commitment by government to public, affordable and green new homes to meet the needs of a growing population.
I WANT to win an Oscar, nine-year-old Leighlinbridge boy Michael OMara confidently told The Nationalist after appearing in a new Netflix series.

Billed as a dark comedy, The Decameron is loosely inspired by the short story collection of the same name. First published in Italy in the mid-14th Century, Giovanni Boccaccios writings tell the story of a group of nobles and their servants sheltering in a villa outside Florence as the Black Death rages in 1348.

Michael as a hungry peasant in The Decameron

Michael plays the role of a hungry peasant in the opening scenes of the eight-episode series, released by the streaming service on 25 July. As the series has an 18s rating, Michaels mum Jayme said he only got to watch himself and then it was switched off.

This was his biggest production to date. He had a great time filming in Tuscany and Rome for a week and got to visit the Colosseum, she said.

Michael and his seven-year-old sibling Max were cast as brothers last October in an Irish film called Froggie, which recently premiered at the Galway Film Festival. It has taken off from there for Michael, who spoke to The Nationalist from Co Antrim, where he is currently filming a top secret, massive HBO series.

An excited Michael said: I absolutely love filming; when its over, I never want to leave. Its really cool getting into character. I love transforming. Michael said watching himself on screen is really cool, really realistic.

Jayme said that both of her sons have the acting bug, with Michael adding that its fun when Max acts with him, too. She says Michael always wanted to act and was involved in drama in Leighlinbridge National School, where his teacher commented on how good he was. This prompted a move to stage school and later a talent agency, where he flourished.

Michael is represented by local agency SRL Talent Management. Its owner, Shauna Ray Lacey, described him as an absolute pleasure, a wonderful child with a great passion for performance. He has been a dream to work with, both as a client and student.

Shauna says the commitment needed from young performers can be overwhelming, but that Michael has real hunger, drive and just lives for the set.

Budding acting enthusiasts can email Shauna at Srltheagency@gmail.com to find out more about upcoming camps and workshops to help hone their craft.
By Cillian Sherlock, PA

Gardai will provide full co-operation to investigations into anyone who took part in recent violent disorder in the UK, the Minister for Justice has said.

Helen McEntee said she reaffirmed a shared commitment with the British government on a range of matters during a call with UK home secretary Yvette Cooper.

Ms McEntee said An Garda Siochana would fully co-operate with all investigations involving any people from Ireland who have participated in recent riots.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee. Photo: PA

In a statement, she said: We discussed the ongoing disturbances across the United Kingdom over the last week.

We spoke about the common challenges faced by governments and countries across Europe, including similar escalations of violence in Ireland in recent times with anti-migrant undercurrents.

Assaulting police officers, burning buildings and attacking public amenities cannot be tolerated in a democratic society.

We agreed on the importance of countering racism, supporting our migrant communities, and bringing to justice the perpetrators of such terrible violence.

I noted the strong, ongoing co-operation between the gardai and UK police services and assured the Home Secretary of the full co-operation of gardai, if needed, on investigations involving any people from this jurisdiction who have participated in acts of violent disorder.

We also spoke about protecting the Common Travel Area, which is vital to the daily lives of so many Irish and British citizens, and our joint commitment to preventing any abuse of it.
By Grainne Ni Aodha, PA

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.

Minister for Justice 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.

Joan Dean from victims' group Advic welcomed any move towards improving sentencing guidelines.

Sentencing has always been a very complex and inconsistent thing, she told RTE radio. So anything that would work towards maybe giving more strength to judges, who are in the best place really. They are in the courts every day waiting to hear all the details of the case. So I think it's good to give them the right to recommend a minimum term.

Saoirse Brady of the Penal Reform Trust said it would be important that any changes are done properly.

What we welcome is the fact that there are non-binding, decisions or recommendations by the judge to be handed down in these cases because I suppose we want the parole board to come forward. I think it is appropriate that the Parole Board retains the authority to make those final decisions. But at the moment, the only people eligible for parole are those on life sentences. So it can't yet be applied to any other type of sentence, she told RTE radios Today.

Alongside the Life Sentences Bill, Ms Brady said they would like to see the Judicial Council publish sentencing guidelines to assist judges in what is very often a very difficult decision.

Ms Dean pointed out that it was important that the judge is allowed to make a recommendation, for instance, in a scenario where there were multiple victims.
By Cillian Sherlock, PA

Updated at 19:44

The Taoiseach says he would have no problem meeting Elon Musk and other social media executives about content on their platforms.

The X owner has been engaged in a row with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer after a number of riots across Britain.

It comes as Simon Harris faced threats in a post on Instagram, which was not removed for a number of days.

The Taoiseach said earlier on Wednesday that social media companies cannot be allowed to act like the Wild West.

The Taoiseach said: It is totally unacceptable that any media platform  digital, online, print  would allow a threat towards anybody remain for a significant period of time.

"We cant have a situation where its seen as some kind of Wild West over there (on social media) that does not come into contact with the same laws and enforcement that (a newspaper) would  this is a form of media.

Mr Harris said Ireland would soon introduce new measures and financial penalties against social media companies in the range of tens of millions of euros, under an online safety code.

He said he was very proud of the work under way at media regulator Coimisiun na Mean, adding that Ireland was ahead of many, many other European countries.

He said binding measures could be put in place later this year that would hit these companies where it hurts if they fail to comply with the new rules.

Mr Harris said the codes would allow for financial penalties and also include measures to hold directors personally responsible.

Taoiseach Simon Harris. Photo:  PA Wire/PA Images

He said: The era of self-regulation of these companies is well and truly over. This will be the year in which there will be binding codes, financial sanctions and personal liabilities on social media companies  and that day cant come quickly enough.

He said: If anybody in any social media company is dining out on or thinking that somehow or other Ireland will not be robust in relation to this, theyre about to find out how extraordinarily wrong they just are.

Regulating social media

Mr Harris said he will shortly convene a meeting of stakeholders to see what more Ireland can do on regulating social media, including through the European Union.

However, he said that threats made online are already illegal and added that perpetrators would face the full rigours of the law.

Meanwhile, the owner of X, formerly Twitter, has been engaged in a spat with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer following a series of violent riots.

Asked specifically about Elon Musk wading into the debate around the violence, Mr Harris said he did not want to massage the ego of any social media entrepreneur.

Pressed on the matter, he said: Best of luck to him, you know, Elon Musk is a citizen of wherever and of the world  and thats fine.

My concern isnt Elon Musk or (Facebook and Meta founder) Mark Zuckerberg or whatever their name is. My concern is the protection, safety and wellbeing of people in this country.

Asked whether he believed there was a reason for increased violent behaviour and aggravated threats, the Taoiseach said: I dont believe that we should be looking for any kind of justification or logic behind anybody who threatens anybody elses life  its a crime, its illegal.

He said: What I will say, though, is that this country hasnt dramatically changed. We are fundamentally good people. People right across Ireland are kind, theyre decent, we have a sort of politics that can be robust at times, but its generally respectful.

There is a small number of people who seek to spew hatred and there is a small number of people who use social media and online media as a spawning ground for incitement to hatred.

Mr Harris, whose family members have experienced masked individuals gathered outside their home, said: Some of the media and political discourse around this does need to be checked too by all of us as a collective because when (the media) decide, and when (we as politicians) decide that people turning up outside somebodys home wearing a balaclava is a protest, then I think weve lost all sense of what is and isnt acceptable.

And we run the risk of normalising things that should never, ever be normalised at all.

He said: What I have seen is a small number of bad actors who travel across the island, both parts of it now, seeking to whip up fear and frenzy and indeed, engage in behaviour that does put peoples lives and properties at risk.
By Rebecca Black, PA

Civic leaders, churches, trade unions and businesses have called for an end to rioting after three nights of violent disorder in Belfast.

The violence started in south Belfast after anti-immigration protests in the city.

Police and members of the public were attacked and businesses owned by those from ethnic minorities burned.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions will rally outside Parliament Buildings at Stormont on Thursday against the protests, ahead of a recall of the Assembly.

Abdelkader Mohamad Al Alloush, owner of the Sham Supermarket on Donegall Road in Belfast (Rebecca Black/PA)

Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, said while she welcomed the Assembly recall, political leaders must do more.

To eradicate racism, we need a concerted response across society, with clear direction, commitment and action, she said.

We will only succeed in tackling racism and achieve racial equality in Northern Ireland if we have high level commitment and leadership from government.

We welcome the Assembly recall, but it is not good enough just to talk about it, as has been done before.

We need a new racial equality strategy with concrete, outcome-focused actions that are adequately resourced.

The new strategy must target the elimination of racial inequalities but must also tackle prejudicial attitudes, promote respect for difference and foster community cohesion.

Furthermore, we must see the introduction of effective hate crime legislation, the implementation of an effective refugee integration strategy, ethnic equality monitoring and race law reform.

Rev Trevor Gribben of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, said it was time to de-escalate the tension (Presbyterian Church in Ireland/PA)

Clerk of the General Assembly and general secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Rev Trevor Gribben, said they join calls for an end to the protests and violence.

He said while lawful protest over the lack of social housing and underinvestment can be legitimate, he said much of what has been seen in recent days has been neither legitimate nor lawful.

Neither has it in fact been protest, but rather we have witnessed racist, hate-filled, wanton violence and destruction that has no place in civilised society, he said.

This cannot be excused or justified, only universally condemned, as there is no right to intimidate and incite hatred, and certainly no right to riot.

As tensions run high, I would appeal to everyone, those who are planning further street protests and those encouraging direct counter-protests, to think again.

This is a time to de-escalate the tension in our community, and not heighten it. Seeking the peace and prosperity of the city sometimes means setting aside our right to protest, or counter-protest, for the common good. This is surely such a time.

Join the rally at Stormont on Thursday - Stand against Racism - Unite in Hope! pic.twitter.com/P90CK2FOWg  NIPSA (@nipsa) August 6, 2024

Nipsa deputy general secretary Patrick Mulholland urged unity and an end to the deliberate division being sown in working class areas under racist banners.

The violence in recent days is reprehensible and causing real concerns  not only for those directly affected but also within our healthcare system where vital workers across all roles are reconsidering their employment, he said.

We must stand together against racism and support workers regardless of their skin colour, religion or ethnic origin.

Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland director of Amnesty International, urged politicians to call out paramilitary involvement in the disorder.

He was speaking after a senior police officer earlier this week said a paramilitary element is suspected.

Following PSNI acknowledgement of a paramilitary element involved in orchestrating recent violence, we now need politicians to call it out for what it is, a sinister campaign involving illegal organisations with a record of racially motivated violence going back years, he said.

Given the heightened threat level to Muslim, refugee and other communities in Northern Ireland, the police has a huge responsibility in the coming days to protect everyones right to life, and to uphold the human rights of all in our community to live their lives free of violence and intimidation.

Gordon Milligan, chairman of the Labour Relations Agency, said: The CBI, NI Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors, and Manufacturing NI utterly condemn the racist attacks and civil unrest that has been taking place in Belfast.

It is completely unacceptable that businesses and their employees are being attacked and livelihoods ruined.

We call on everyone in society to do all they can to defuse the situation before more people get hurt and Northern Irelands reputation as a good place to work and do business is damaged.
Ellen O'Donoghue

There's a chronic shortage of second-hand homes for sale across the State.

There were just under 12,500 second-hand homes for sale across the country in July, according to new analysis by MyHome.ie.

The MyHome.ie research showed there were 24,750 second-hand homes listed for sale in Ireland in July 2014. This compares with 12,477 properties last month  a decline of 50 per cent.

Joanne Geary, Managing director of MyHome.ie, said the 50 per cent decline is pretty dramatic.

[It is a] pretty stark figure when you consider that there is very strong demand in the market currently, but obviously a drop of 50 per cent speaks to the underlying issue in our marketplace which is shortfall of supply, she said.

Ms Geary said Munster has the least number of second-hand properties available, followed by the Border counties. Dublin has experienced a 19 per cent drop in second-hand properties for sale since 2014.

The province that has been most affected is Munster, with a 61 per cent drop in properties in the decade. Connacht, if we take in the three Border counties, is down 59 per cent and a 36 per cent decline in Leinster. Dublin experienced a 19 per cent drop during the same period which shows that there is very much a chronic supply issue, Ms Geary said.

Of the second-hand properties listed on MyHome.ie last month, 7,983 had an asking price of 450,000 or below, with 2,893 listed for between 450,000 and 800,000.

"This trend is particularly concerning when one considers that, according to the CSO, the population of the country has grown by an average of 65,000 every year since 2016," she added.
By Rebecca Black, PA

A son of a Defence Forces soldier killed in 1983 has appealed to Sinn Fein MP John Finucane not to take part in an event commemorating a republican.

John Kellys father, Private Patrick Kelly, was killed with Garda Gary Sheehan while taking part in the rescue in Co Leitrim of supermarket executive Don Tidey, who had been kidnapped by the Provisional IRA.

It happened at Drumcroman Woods, Derrada, on December 16th, 1983.

No-one has been prosecuted for his death.

Private Patrick Kelly was killed by the IRA during a rescue operation 40 years ago (South East Fermanagh Foundation/PA)

Mr Kelly was commenting on an planned event to honour republican John Joe McGirl, who he alleges was involved with the Provisional IRA.

Mr McGirl went on to become a Sinn Fein councillor in Leitrim, chairman of Leitrim County Council, a TD, and vice president of Sinn Fein.

Mr Finucane is due to take part in the event in Co Leitrim later this month as part of the Ballinamore Family Festival.

In an open letter, Mr Kelly has urged Mr Finucane not to take part in the event, which he describes as both morally reprehensible and a national outrage.

He writes: It is disappointing that you are scheduled to speak at the event in honour of McGirl.

No-one has been prosecuted for the murders of a member of the one true Oglaigh na hEireann, the Irish Defence Forces, and a member of An Garda Siochana, less than ten kilometres out the road from Ballinamore.

All innocent victims have a right to truth and justice across the board. With the Derrada Wood murder victims in mind, John Finucane should not participate in this disgraceful event during a taxpayer-funded festival.

Kenny Donaldson, director of victims group SEFF, described the kidnap of Mr Tidey and the deaths of Mr Kelly and Mr Sheehan as heinous crimes carried out by Provisional IRA insurrectionists who stood opposed to both States on this island.

The holding of an annual commemorative walk for him (Mr McGirl) over the period of Ballinamores busiest time is a cynical ploy from the Provisional Republican Movement to have itself attached to community-based events which have support from large numbers of people, he said.

This is about the Provisionals mainstreaming individuals and linked events, that it then becomes part of a new norm.

North Belfast MP John Finucane (Liam McBurney/PA)

John Finucane is a victim himself, having had his own father murdered before him. He should be able to empathise with the Kelly and Sheehan families.

We appeal with him to show some understanding and sensitivity for the plight of these families. Do the right thing John Finucane, withdraw from this event which eulogises someone involved in terrorism over a long number of years.

Mr Finucane said: I have always been clear that truth and justice is something which every person impacted by our conflict deserves, and is entitled to, irrespective of whether those who inflicted the harm were loyalists, the British state or republicans.

I have been consistent in this view whether it be personally as a campaigner, professionally as a lawyer, or politically as the MP for north Belfast.

For just as truth and justice applies equally to everyone, so too does the right to remember, and the right to commemorate, and I will be attending what will be a dignified commemoration on August 17th.
The young girl injured in a stabbing attack in Dublin city centre in November has been home for her first visit since the incident.

The five-year-old was seriously injured at Parnell Square and has since been receiving treatment in Temple Street Children's Hospital.

In an update on a GoFundMe page set up for her treatment, her family revealed she was allowed home for a visit and to see her new adapted house and room.

"It was the first time since November that she was in her room," the statement said.

"We were able to move to an adapted home, so it was also the first time she saw her new neighbourhood and house. It was a big step towards bringing her home for good... a very emotional one. And she did not disappoint. What a warrior!"

The girl was one of three children injured outside Colaiste Mhuire, Parnell Square East, on the afternoon of November 23rd, 2023. The two other children, aged five and six, were discharged from hospital in the days after the attack.

A woman in her 30s who was caring for the children at the time also sustained multiple stab wounds after using her body as a shield in a bid to protect the children. While she was in a critical condition in hospital for weeks, she is now recovering.

The incident sparked a far-right gathering in central Dublin in the hours after the attack, followed by riots in the city centre, which led to clashes with gardai and the looting of several shops.

Riad Bouchaker (50), of no fixed abode, has been charged with the attempted murder of three children and with causing serious harm to a care worker on Parnell Square.
Lafarge BFC Serbia to invest in eco-friendly cement plant

ICR Newsroom By 07 August 2024

Lafarge BFC (Serbia), part of the Holcim Group, plans to open an eco-friendly cement plant in Obrenovac. The EUR110m (US$120.3m) plant will produce cement from the ashes of nearby thermal power plants.

The Obrenovac project is part of Lafarge BFC Serbia's pledge to achieve zero CO 2 emissions by 2050. It will help to address Serbia's waste management issues, including the countrys extensive network of unsanitary landfills and illegal dumpsites. In 2019 the European Environmental Agency published a report finding that Serbia has around 100 unsanitary municipal landfills and over 3000 illegal dumpsites. In 2022 Balkan Green Energy News confirmed these figures, adding that some 2.4Mta of municipal waste ends up in unsanitary landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.

Milos Vucevic, the Serbian prime minister, met with Holcim and Lafarge BFC Serbia executives to discuss this new project. The government noted that the Obrenovac factory will become a regional hub for producing construction materials from ash. This investment in the Obrenovac plant marks the first phase of Lafarges expansion in Serbia, with Lafarge BFC Serbia Executive, Dimitrije Knjeginjic, hopeful it will solve the environmental problem of ash landfills.

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Taiwan may launch an investigation into Vietnamese cement imports

ICR Newsroom By 07 August 2024

Taiwan has reported the potential launch of an anti-dumping investigation into the cement and clinker imported from Vietnam, according to the Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam (TRAV), under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT).

The TRAV urged the Vietnam Cement Association (VNCA) to notify its members about the investigation and to coordinate with Taiwanese importers to monitor market information closely. Companies have to submit all export data from 2021 to mid-2024 to the TRAV by 12 August.

Cement and clinker exports from Vietnam have faced declines in recent years. In the first half of 2024, exports from Vietnam were largely unchanged from the previous year, at 10.28Mt. Cement exports by Vietnam Cement Industry Corp (VICEM) companies fell six per cent YoY to 1.4Mt, while other VCNA-members saw cement exports rise 59 per cent YoY to 1.785Mt. Non-member companies reported a seven per cent YoY contraction to 7.096Mt. In 2023 exports dropped to 31.24Mt, a 1.2 per cent decrease in volume compared to 2022.

The industry is struggling to recover from its peak export volume of 45.7Mt in 2021. The Philippines, followed by the USA, Singapore, South Africa and Malaysia were the top five export destinations for cement in the first half of 2024.

The VNCA forecasts continued challenges for cement and clinker exports because of Chinas stagnant real estate market and surplus cement production, expected to compete with Vietnamese exports in key markets such as the Philippines, Central America and South Africa.

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WesBanco, Inc. announces the expansion of its loan production office team in Chattanooga.The new Chattanooga team members are: Adam Guzman, senior vice president & commercial banker; Tim Ragan, senior vice president & commercial banker; and Lyndsay Sanders, commercial banking assistant.WesBanco is thrilled to welcome Adam, Tim and Lyndsay to our team, said Adam Thomas, Chattanooga city president, WesBanco. Their extensive experience and deep understanding of the local market will significantly strengthen our capacity to serve the financial needs of the vibrant regional business community.As we mark our one-year anniversary in Chattanooga, this expansion of our team is a testament to the strong demand for our services and the trust the business community has placed in us.Officials said, "Together, these veteran commercial bankers bring a wealth of knowledge and local expertise to their new roles with WesBanco. With many years of experience in the financial industry in Chattanooga, they have developed a deep understanding of the local market and built strong relationships within the community that will enable them to provide tailored solutions and exceptional service to existing and new WesBanco customers."WesBanco opened its Chattanooga LPO in August 2023. The company opened an LPO in Nashville in 2022."WesBanco has earned a series of accolades for soundness and profitability, customer service, employer of choice and community development, most recently earning a place on Newsweeks list of Americas Greatest Workplaces 2024 and Forbes Americas Best Banks 2024," officials said.The Chattanooga LPO is located at 325 Cherokee Blvd., Suite 201 in Chattanooga.
Its been five years since Hamilton County lost a true treasure. Curtis D. Adams passed away July 2, 2019 leaving a void in the fabric of the community he loved so much.

The outspoken 86-year-old was the longest serving commissioner in the history of Hamilton County, and he served as chairman several times. To all his friends, he was known as Curtis and never met a stranger.

Commissioner Adams was willing to help constituents regardless of whether they lived in his district. He put Hamilton County first.

This writer remembers when a lady in Red Bank was having trouble with students waiting for the school bus in front of her house damaging her flowers. When Commissioner Adams found out, he called the bus superintendent of Hamilton County Schools and the next day the bus stop was moved up the street.

Commissioner Adams always listened to citizens complaints even when paying his respects to friends at a funeral home visitation. Mr. Adams would say, Thats my job.

Commissioner Adams never ran from the news media and reporters knew where to find him in the afternoon about 4:00 when there was a breaking story. The commissioners office was in the front of his family tire store on E. Main Street and the door was always open.

As a talk show host for 30 years, you wouldnt want for a better guest; Mr. Adams kept the phones ringing. After Commissioner Adams served about a year on the Hamilton County Commission, he made his first appearance on WDODs Sunday Morning Sound Off. Hed cast some unpopular votes and the audience gave him a rough time. As the host, when the program was nearly over, I thought Mr. Adams would never return. At the close of the show the commissioner said, Earl Ive had a good time, I hope youll have be back real soon. Commissioner Adams was on Sound Off more than any other guest in the history of the long running program.

Commissioner Adams was very outspoken, many times in a humorous way, and he would share his humor on this writers radio program. For instance, on his wifes birthday Mr. Adams called and said, Earl, Im giving Dot something real special for her birthday this year, a new weed eater, garbage can and vacuum cleaner. Weve been a little short of cash, but I found some super bargains at the thrift store.

Hed even joked about a nonexistent Dot's Tree Service, (shes mowing grass and trimming hedges, she needs the exercise) and his wife would have to explain to friends in the grocery store it was all in Curtis fun.

Mr. Adams was the son of a preacher, thus his passion for Southern Gospel Music. The commissioner loved the hymns and often led the singing at area churches. His favorite hymn was Fanny Crosbys Blessed Assurance. He encouraged Hamilton County Trustee Bill Hullander to begin a monthly event known as the Red Back Hymnal Singing which is still held the third Sunday of every month. Mr. Adams didnt miss a Sunday night until his health started to decline.

When this writer joined WDYN radio in 2005 Mr. Adams was named honorary chairman of the stations biannual share a thons. Hed spend hours asking listeners to support the radio station that he loved.

Mr. Adams hosted a weekly program on WDYN, Getting to know you. He interviewed over 100 guests from preachers to politicians. The conversations included Chattanooga Attorney Jerry Summers, News Free Press writer J.B.Collins, Hamilton County Clerk Bill Knowles, Aztec Industries President Don Brock, Chattanoogan.com publisher John Wilson and the late pastor Dr. J.R. Faulkner.

The District 8 commissioner had an office on Ringgold Road in East Ridge and would often perform weddings. Young couples would come by his office wanting to tie the knot.

Dozens of pictures of governmental leaders hung on his office walls; they included several presidents, governors and mayors hed met.

His life was never the same when his wife Dot died unexpectedly in 2014, but while grieving, the commissioner continued greeting and eating with friends often at Wallys and Epicurean Restaurants in East Ridge. Mr. Adams was a people person, and a great listener.

Chattanooga News Free Press Publisher Roy McDonald hired Mr. Adams when he was 18 and he grew to love Mr. McDonald like a father. Mr. Adams served as circulation and advertising manager for decades at the newspaper he loved.

"Mr. Roy" was obviously his favorite person. He was proud of persuading Mr. McDonald to attend a surprise event at Tennessee Temple University hosted by Highland Park Baptist Church pastor Dr. Lee Roberson.

Mr. Adams always had a Roy McDonald story including the time he and Mr. Roy went to Arkansas and met then Governor (later President) Bill Clinton.

Mr. Adams was proud of his Democrat heritage but later in his career changed political parties (Republican). The senior commissioner said political affiliation didnt matter much to him as his priority would always be working for the people.

In addition to being a Hamilton County Commissioner, Mr. Adams served as city manager of East Ridge and Crossville, Tn. A Street in East Ridge was named in Mr. Adams' honor.

The commissioner was very patriotic and served as civilian chairman of the annual Armed Forces Week Committee. He attended many of the Downtown Chattanooga Parades.

Hamilton County Commissioner Curtis Adams, who wore a fresh pressed suit and tie, worked for all of us. His love for God, Country and Community was un-wavering as was his friendship to this writer.
Cleveland City Schools announces the grand opening of its brand-new Educational Support Center, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to providing comprehensive resources and support to students, educators and the community. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Aug. 5 at the new center at 775 Raider Dr. in Cleveland.The Educational Support Center represents a significant milestone in Cleveland City Schools commitment to enhancing educational outcomes and fostering a supportive learning environment.This modern facility was designed to offer a wide range of services, including academic counseling, professional development for teachers, family engagement programs, and resources for special education.Dr. Jeff Elliott, director of Schools for Cleveland City Schools, said, "The opening of the Educational Support Center marks a new chapter for our school district. This center will be a hub of innovation and support, ensuring that each individual has access to the resources they need to succeed. We are excited to see the positive impact it will have on our school community."The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Dr. Elliott, Board Chair Nate Tucker, Mayor Kevin Brooks and Project Manager Hal Taylor. City officials and other attendees had the opportunity to tour the facility, meet the dedicated staff and learn more about the programs and services offered at the center.
By Order of Reciprocal Discipline entered by the Supreme Court of Tennessee on Tuesday, Shaheen Iltaf Imami received a public censure with conditions.

On April 10, the Attorney Disciplinary Board for the State of Michigan imposed a public reprimand on Mr. Imami conditioned upon successful completion of the State Bar of Michigans Lawyer Trust Accounts Seminar: Management Principles and Recordkeeping Resources, and successful completion of SBMs Tips and Tools for a Successful Practice seminar, with proof of said completion being provided to the grievance administrator.

Mr. Imami failed to preserve complete records of account funds for a period of five years; failed to promptly deliver funds owed to his client or third party; failed to promptly render a full accounting; failed to hold property of clients or third parties separate from his own funds; failed to deposit all client or third party funds in an appropriate IOLTA or non-IOLTA account, and/or failed to appropriately safeguard other property; engaged in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice; and engaged in conduct exposing the legal profession to obloquy, contempt, censure, or reproach in violation of the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct and Michigan Court Rules, said officials.

On May 8, 2024, the Supreme Court of Tennessee entered a Notice of Reciprocal Discipline directing Mr. Imami to inform the court, within 30 days of receipt of the Notice, why the discipline imposed by the Attorney Disciplinary Board for the State of Michigan should not be imposed by the Supreme Court of Tennessee. Mr. Imami did not file a response with the court as ordered.

A public censure is a rebuke and warning to the attorney, but it does not affect the attorneys present ability to practice law.
Nighttime carnival celebrates Miao culture

14:10, August 07, 2024 By Tan Yingzi and Deng Rui in Chongqing ( China Daily

A nighttime carnival featuring Miao cuisine, song, dance and traditional clothing at the Chiyou Jiuli Town scenic spot in Chongqing's Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county is attracting visitors from across the country.

Running from late last month to late this month, it features Miao electric music festivals, costume shows, night markets, parades, water-splashing festivals and bonfire parties.

The Miao ethnic group can be traced back to a group living in the eastern plains of China over 7,000 years ago. The group mostly settled in southwestern China, primarily in today's Guizhou, Hunan and Yunnan provinces, from the time of the Tang and Song (618-1279) dynasties.

More than 11 million Miao people are now scattered across nine provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions in southern China, with Guizhou as their main base. Their religious beliefs mainly revolve around nature and ancestor worship.

Miao communities can also be found in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, the United States, France, Argentina and Australia.

Chiyou Jiuli Town's striking architecture, covering more than 28 hectares and with a total construction area of 110,000 square meters, comprises more than 40 buildings built on a hill. It is China's largest stilt building complex.

"I was immediately captivated by the stunning night view of the architecture here," said Chen Jing, a tourist from Beijing who explored the area on Sunday night.

Located in southeast Chongqing, Pengshui is home to 318,000 Miao people who comprise 45.4 percent of the county's population. It has the largest concentration of Miao people in all ethnic minority counties, according to local authorities.

Named after the ancestor and ancient tribe of the Miao ethnic group, Chiyou Jiuli Town was opened to the public in 2015.

Chiyou, a mythical warrior who was the ancestor of the Miao people and the leader of the ancient Jiuli tribe, is held to be one of the three ancestors of the Chinese nation. Legend has it that Chiyou was a formidable tribal chief who clashed with the Yellow Emperor, or Huangdi, and his ally the Red Emperor, or Yandi, before ultimately being defeated in battle.

"After thousands of years of migration and evolution, the Miao ethnic group has gradually transformed from a native Chinese tribe into a global community," said Chen Lin, deputy director of the county's cultural and tourism committee.

Zhao Guanghui, vice-general manager of Chongqing Jiuli Tourism Holdings Group, said, "Chiyou Jiuli Town has not only become a popular tourist destination, but also a symbol of ethnic identity."

Every year on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, a Chiyou sacrificial ceremony is held around a stone totem pillar at the scenic spot, attracting people from around the world.

The 24-meter-tall Jiuli Pillar, the tallest such totem, has a base diameter of 3 meters, and is adorned with 108 carved figures, according to Shanghai China Records, a group dedicated to the cataloging and verification of records. The pillar took 30 stonecutting artists more than eight months to complete.

The scenic spot receives roughly 1.5 million visitors a year.

"The number of customers renting ethnic costumes at my store has increased by more than 30 percent recently," said Wu Song, the owner of a shop at the scenic spot that rents Miao costumes to visitors  mostly young women and families with children.

Besides domestic tourists, the scenic spot also attracts many overseas visitors, especially from Southeast Asian countries.

In the first half of this year, tourism arrivals in the county were up 20.8 percent year-on-year and overall tourism revenue was up 24 percent.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Zorana Mrsic, MD, an Army veteran and board-certified non-invasive cardiologist, has joined Hamilton Physician Group - Cardiology in Dalton.Dr. Mrsic focuses on preventing and treating a broad spectrum of cardiovascular disease including hypertension, lipid disorders, palpitations and arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, valvular heart diseases, heart failure and cardiomyopathies.My favorite part of being a cardiologist is educating patients about cardiovascular diseases so they can be empowered to make healthcare decisions for themselves and their loved ones, she said.A graduate of Medical College of Georgia - Augusta University, Dr.Mrsic completed a residency at D.D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center, Fort Gordon. She also completed a cardiology fellowship at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md. She also served as chief of cardiology at Womack Army Medical Center in North Carolina from 2022 to 2024.Dr. Mrsic was born in Bosnia and came to the United States with her parents and sister as a child. She graduated from Central Gwinnett High School as valedictorian of her class and went on to earn her bachelors degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of Georgia - Athens.Growing up I had a lot of different ideas of what I was going to do, but being a doctor was not at the top of the list, Dr. Mrsic said. I went to college as a biochemistry major with a desire to do research, but fell in love with the idea of helping people in a different way when I volunteered as an interpreter in a medical clinic.In her spare time, the Varnell resident can be found helping with the goats and cattle at her parents farm, or exploring local hiking trails with her dogs.To make an appointment with Dr. Mrsic, call 706-226-3434.
The city of Red Bank recently adopted a master plan for the city as a whole and on Tuesday night a master plan for the parks and recreation department was approved. The plan, originated by KimleyHorn Consultants over several years, was modified by city staff led by Parks and Recreation Manager Jefrey Grabe along with input from the citys Parks and Recreation advisory board of residents. With the commissioners approval it is expected that grants for parks will be more available since the city has a master plan. Mr. Grabe said the next step will be to prioritize projects.

The city received an award for excellence in strategic planning at the recent Tennessee Municipal League conference.

Another big decision has been made. The city has been searching for a chief financial officer since John Alexander retired. During the search, the position was filled on an interim basis by Kristina Pickel from the Robert Half Agency. There were 23 applicants for the job but only seven were qualified, said Recorder Tracey Perry. Of those only two people showed up for an interview and Ms. Pickel was one of them. The commission approved paying $20,000 to Robert Half Company as a conversion fee from a contract position to a city employee.

City employees and the Red Bank Cemetery Advisory Board, another committee of citizens, have been working to clean up and improve the Red Bank Cemetery. Before disturbing it and making any big changes, the city decided to find out what is there that cannot be readily seen. The board of commissioners approved hiring environmental archologists to potentially locate unmarked graves and other anomalies with ground penetrating radar. The cost that was approved is $4,771, which includes a detailed report of what is discovered.

Purchases to replace old equipment were approved for the police, fire and public works departments. Six 2024 Ford Interceptor Utility all wheel drive vehicles, at a cost of $270,000, will be bought for the police department. And 2,000 feet of five-inch supply hose will be purchased for $19,975 for the fire department. Fire Chief Brent Syler was also authorized to apply for a $1,000 firefighting grant from Tennessee American Water Company. This grant is for 100 percent of the amount with no match required from the city.

The public works department has been getting by with hand-me-down radios from the fire and police. And although not budgeted, $68,781 was approved for the purchase of 10 new Motorola in-cab radios and nine new hand-held radios for the public works department upon request from Public Works Director Greg Tate. One of the automated garbage trucks will also be repaired for an amount not to exceed $16,000.

Two times in the last 20 years, 430 feet of Ashmore Avenue, commonly known as the Ashmore Slope, has been worked on to stabilize that area of the road. The last time, the city spent $62, 892 as an emergency repair, but it only lasted for eight years. Director Tate said that part of the road is a natural drainage area and a geotechnical expert is needed to identify the corrections that are needed for a permanent fix. A contract with Volkert, Inc. has been approved to provide project management services that will cost $264,715 and will include a survey of necessary services for the repair. The contract will also include a geotechnical evaluation of stabilization alternatives. Although this will not fix the problem, it will tell the city what needs to be done. During the time it will take Volkert to do the survey, Director Tate told the commissioners that he will look of grants that might offset some of the cost.

Property at 200 West Euclid was rezoned from R-1 Single Family Residential to R-TZ Residential Townhouse Zero lot line. The property will be divided and two single family houses will be built there. The houses are being built to sell not rent. No neighbors spoke for or against the rezoning.
District Attorney Coty Wamp said license plate readers played a significant role in the arrest of a Washington state couple in connection with the murder of a Soddy Daisy man.

Mark Thompson was shot and killed in Soddy Daisy on June 27.

DA Wamp said, "Less than a month later, the Hamilton County Grand Jury issued indictments charging Michael A. Brooks with first-degree murder and Kayla Brooks with accessory after the fact.

"Suspects Michael A. Brooks and Kayla Brooks fled town after the murder and were eventually located in Washington State. Once detectives knew of the possible destination of the suspects, license plate readers played a significant role in tracking the two.

"The Criminal Warrants Unit of the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office traveled to Washington to retrieve the suspects, both of whom are now in custody at the Hamilton County Jail.

The efforts of the Soddy Daisy Police Department on this case have been outstanding. Indictments were secured only because of the hard work of SDPD Detectives Jeremy Morrison and Hunter Abbott. As these cases are now pending in Criminal Court, we will have no further comment but we will see Mr. and Mrs. Brooks in court.

Soddy Daisy Police Chief Billy Petty said, The Soddy Daisy Police Department would like to thank all of our law enforcement partners for their help in this case. Specifically, the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office and the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office in Washington State for their help in apprehending the suspects so that they could be brought back to Hamilton County to stand trial.
CHI Memorial has received certification from DNV as a Comprehensive Stroke Center."This certification underscores our ability to deliver timely and effective stroke treatment, giving patients the best possible outcome. We are proud to offer comprehensive stroke care that empowers patients to achieve optimal recovery and regain their independence, said Thomas Devlin, MD, PhD, CHI Memorial Neuroscience Institute medical director.Comprehensive stroke centers can care for all types of strokes, have a dedicated neuroscience intensive care unit, and have access to minimally invasive procedures and neurosurgeons 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Our comprehensive stroke center certification is a testament to our team's expertise and commitment to providing the most advanced stroke care available, said Jennifer Patterson, PhD, ACNP-BC, ANVP-BC, CCRN, FHM, CHI Memorial director of neuroscience operations.This certification signifies our commitment to providing rapid and expert care, maximizing patients' chances of a full recovery."Officials said, "The DNV Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association, and affirms that CHI Memorial addresses the full spectrum of stroke care  diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education  and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes."Achieving certification shows commitment to excellence, says Kelly Proctor, president of DNV Healthcare USA Inc. And it helps demonstrate to the Chattanooga community that CHI Memorial is performing at the highest level.Officials said, "Comprehensive stroke centers can treat any kind of stroke or stroke complication. In a growing number of states, stroke center certification determines to which facility a patient should be taken for the most appropriate care."In addition to the Comprehensive Stroke Center certification, CHI Memorials stroke program has recently received other awards for its high-quality care. It is the only regional hospital recently rated as high performing in stroke by U.S. News and World Report, which also named the hospital a Best Regional Hospital. The American Heart Association recognized CHI Memorial with its Get With The Guidelines - Stroke GoldPlus quality achievement award for the health systems commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability. CHI Memorial also received the American Heart Associations Target: Stroke SM Elite Plus award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet specific criteria that reduce thetime between an eligible patients arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy."In addition, CHI Memorial received the American Heart Associations Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. Target: Type 2 Diabetes aims to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke."
Over the last century, the U.S. military resorted to asbestos when the World War II war effort demanded cheap materials to mass-produce equipment. Manufacturers wanted to profit from the fibrous material, hiding evidence of the health risk of mixing asbestos in products for military properties such as aircraft, vehicles, ships, and barracks. Out of all branches, the Navy exploited asbestos the most, putting naval personnel serving on ships built before the 1980s at a high risk of asbestos exposure. However, this fact doesnt exclude other military bases from being a potential source of asbestos contamination.

The growing number of toxic exposure cases among veterans today reflects the many health risks they faced during service, including asbestos exposure. The consequences of inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers may threaten many veterans health now, especially those who served in the Second World War, Korean, and Vietnam War. In addition to the risk of being around various toxic materials, working near asbestos products may have been an added risk to Tennessee veterans deteriorating health, as diseases caused by toxic exposure are on the rise today. The issue regards Tennessees veteran population and Chattanoogas veteran community.

Tennessee is home to Arnold AFB, one of the most advanced bases in the world, built as a response to the World War II. It was used to train most types of troops, especially artillery and infantry, but also served a prison for war prisoners when needed. Another important installation with wartime history is the Navys Mid-South base, which hosted the naval aviation.

The devastating effect of asbestos exposure on veterans health

Due to their microscopic size and fibrous structure, airborne asbestos particles can float in the air for hours when disturbed. Its the white dust many veterans remember. The sharp-edged mineral threads are easily inhaled or ingested, making asbestos dust one of the most toxic substances humans have encountered. Once inside the body, these tiny fibers permanently injure major organs, leading to severe diseases.

Asbestos-related illnesses have decades-long latency periods until the first symptoms appear. Even if veterans may have had no health issues during their service, some of them experience the effects of asbestos exposure only over time when they are diagnosed with illnesses stemming from it, like mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, or other respiratory conditions.

Veterans struggle for health after asbestos exposure

Even though decades have passed since asbestos was used in the military, veterans who were in contact with it during service now have to fight for their health. Many must accept that their asbestos diseases will shorten their lives, as no existing treatment can reverse the damage done by asbestos. Todays medical procedures can only slow the progression, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications.

With Tennessee ranking 17th in the U.S. for asbestos-related deaths, veterans should see their doctor as soon as possible. Timely detection is essential in asbestos-related diseases because it considerably improves treatment results and prolongs life expectancy. That is why vets should proactively protect their health through regular check-ups, learn their legal rights, and promote awareness.

Doing periodic check-ups and, while there, being upfront with the doctor about military service and potential asbestos exposure are crucial steps. Inhaled asbestos fibers damage the lungs first, so veterans should schedule chest X-rays or CT scans and pulmonary function (breathing) tests. These noninvasive investigations show any harm caused by the asbestos fibers and are reliable in diagnosing benign and malignant asbestos conditions.

Former Service members who know theyve worked in a contaminated environment or those who suspect theyve been exposed to asbestos during service should know their rights and options. Compensation programs and legal avenues are available through asbestos trust funds and Veterans Affairs to help those harmed by asbestos exposure, and veterans need to be informed about these resources.

Veterans can be crucial in raising awareness by sharing their knowledge about asbestos exposure risks with their fellow servicemen and women. Opening up about their experiences can facilitate passing vital information to others who fought for our country.

Additional help for Tennessee veterans and their families through the PACT Act

In 2022, the 17th U.S. Congress enacted the PACT Act, a new law to improve health care and compensation for veterans exposed to toxins. The Act extends eligibility for V.A. health care for retired military members exposed to harmful substances during active duty and provides veterans with the care and benefits they deserve.

Because of this new law, approximately 3.5 million veterans exposed to various toxins will be eligible for extended V.A. benefits, and Tennessee Senator Hagerty supported it. Since the passage of the PACT Act, over four million veterans have been screened for toxic exposure, and nearly 350,000 US citizens have been approved for expanded benefits. Approximately 21,000 veterans have filed PACT Act claims in Tennessee, and over 9,000 veterans received expanded benefits. Tennessee veterans can consult information on the Tennessee Department of Veterans Affairs website: https://www.tn.gov/veteran.html.

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Cristina Johnson is a Navy veteran advocate for Asbestos Ships Organization, a nonprofit whose primary mission is to raise awareness and educate veterans about the dangers of asbestos exposure on Navy ships and assist them in navigating the VA claims process. For more information, please visit the organization's site.
Although millions of words have been written or spoken on the famous Monkey Trial (HL Mencken label) that occurred in July 1925 in the rural city of Dayton and Rhea County, Tennessee it was not until 1967 that the principal participant in the event John T Scopes, wrote his memoirs.

In Center of the Storm he collaborated with author James Presley to tell his life story up to that point at the age of 66.

The 277 page adventures of Scopes life from his birth in 1900 covers many interesting events outside of his role in the test case attempting to have the Anti Evolution Act (Butler Law) declared unconstitutional with the main goal being to create a high publicity and profitable event to the community of the county of Rhea.

Most of the events Scopes described in the book have been covered many times by previous authors. However, his contact and evaluation of defense attorney Clarence Darrow, co counsel for the defense, Dudley Field Malone, and fundamentalist defender, William Jennings Bryan, are particularly moving.

After the trial Scopes relationships with Darrow continued for many years in Chicago. The young defendant in the landmark case described Darrow as having the second greatest influence on his life- after his father. He also commented that Darrow was the best read man I have known. It was not his speaking skills that impressed his client the most as compared to William Jennings Bryan oratory talent, but it was his thorough preparation and ability to break down complex issues into simple, understandable terms for ordinary people.

Surprisingly, it was not either Darrow, Bryan, or numerous other Tennessee attorneys involved in the case that earned the greatest praise from Scopes, but was the divorce attorney Dudley Field Malone that received Scopes accolades for his demeanor and courtroom trial tactic of never taking off his double breasted suit coat in the stifling summer heat in the non- air conditioned courtroom until he rose to give a defense argument on the important issue of the admissibility of scientific testimony by defense expert witnesses opposed by the prosecution.

After Malone had finished, Bryan told the lawyer and an empty courtroom with only the two of them and Scopes present that, it was one of the greatest speeches I've ever heard.

In testimony outside the presence of the jury that became a part of the 1960 Stanley Kramer movie Inherit the Wind, Darrow and Bryan engaged in their arguments for and against the theory of evolution versus the Bible on creation.

In Center of the Storm Scopes was kind to Bryan but commented on his health conditions of his heart and diabetes, and his advanced age. Bryan and Scopes also had a common connection to Salem, Illinois, where the young man had graduated from high school, and the politician had given a commencement speech.

Scopes expressed some surprise when Bryan recalled their prior meeting, when they met in Dayton for the trial.

(Although the historical significance of the trial in 1925 is kept alive each year by the dedicated members of the Rhea County Historical and Genealogical Society, it is somewhat ironic that the copy of Scopes memoirs provided for this article had previously been discarded by the Yuma County Library District in Phoenix, Arizona.

In light of the present controversy over book selections in school libraries in 2024, the True Trial of the Century remain the foremost example of what students may or may not be exposed to in educational environments.

PS: Tennessee finally repealed the 1925 Butler law in 1967 prior to the United States Supreme Court in 1968, holding that an Arkansas law banning the teaching of human evolution and public school was unconstitutional.

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If you have additional information about one of Mr. Summers' articles or have suggestions or ideas about a future Chattanooga area historical piece, please contact him at jsummers@summersfirm.com)
Loretta J. Payne Leffew left this world to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, August 6th, at age 88. She died peacefully at her home with loved ones around her.

She was born in Dunlap, Tennessee, to Mary E. (Smith) Payne and Milton Payne. When she was less than a year old, her parents moved her, via wagon, to Soddy, Tennessee.

At age 15, Loretta met Arnold Leffew, a 19-year-old private in the U.S. Army; she thought he looked so handsome in his uniform. Their budding relationship was put on pause when Arnold had to leave for the Korean War; he spent a year and a half overseas, much of it in active combat. Loretta held onto the hope that he would come home. He did.



They became engaged in 1953 and in November of that year, at the age of 17, Loretta married Arnold. They were married for 30 years, until his death in 1983. Together they raised five children and welcomed a number of grandchildren.

She was a member of the North Hamilton Church of Christ where she attended services regularly for many years. Her faith was her inspiration. For a little over two decades, Loretta worked as a receptionist for the Alhambra Shrine.

She enjoyed reading, movies and decorating her home; she loved Christmas and cooking, especially for a houseful of loved ones.

A long and well-lived life is full of both hardship and happiness. Loretta experienced lean times and painful losses, which she faced with grace and dignity, finding strength in her Faith. She also experienced all the good life had to offer from travel to simple pleasures and the joy she found in her friends and her family.

Her warmth, her humor, her strength and her steadfastness will be missed.

She will live on in all those who knew her and loved her.

Loretta was preceded in death by her husband Arnold and her sons Jackie Ray, Richard Allen and Steven Eugene Leffew. She is survived by her daughters Carol (Rick) Prather and Cheryl Torbett; her son Gary (Kathy) Leffew; seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Ashley and Cel of Hospice of Chattanooga.

Funeral services will be held at Legacy Funeral Home on Friday, August 9, at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Buttram Cemetery, 192 Pine Crest Dr., Dayton, Tn., 37321.

Grandson Jonathan Torbett and great-grandsons Nik Shipley, Josh Shipley, Jake Shipley, Nolen Torbett, and Bailey Torbett will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include great granddaughters Maddie Crow and Alayna Courtney.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, at Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8911 Dallas Hollow Rd, Soddy Daisy, Tn, 37379

Arrangements by Legacy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8911 Dallas Hollow Road, Soddy Daisy, TN 37379 (423) 843-2525. To share memories, photos or condolences please visit www.legacyfuneralhome.com.
Illustration by Elizabeth Kaye / Source Images: Getty / Pexels

The United States is now in the throes of the politics of class division, and American evangelicalism is no exception.

College-educated evangelical Christians may be the least prepared for this new class-based polarization, because it doesnt break along old class fault lines. As recently as two decades ago, social class in the US was primarily determined by income or wealth, haves pitted against have-nots.

But todays most intractable class divide is about education, and educated evangelicals are having a hard time navigating this split. After all, the college-educated are a minority among white evangelicals, only 29 percent of whom have four-year college degrees.

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I say thisas an evangelical with not only a four-year degree but a PhDnot to seek pity for the new educational elite. We dont need commiseration. But we do need unity in the body of Christ. So what should we do when our education divides us from our Christian brothers and sisters? What do we do when the values weve acquired from our schooling lead us down a political path that many non-college-educated evangelicals view as dangerously wrong?

Its only in recent years that education has become such an important political predictor. Among white voters, in particular, individuals with at least a college degree are now a much more Democratic constituency than people with less schooling, The New York Times reports. Meanwhile, whites without a college degree are moving rapidly into the Republican Party.

This is a reversal of traditional patterns, because, for many decades, the GOP was the party of the affluent and upper middle class, while Democrats relied heavily on the support of working-class voters. That began to shift as divisions over the Vietnam War in the late 1960s and debates over affirmative action in the 1980s put the Republican Party in conflict with many liberal Protestant clergy and college professors.

For a long time, this dissent among PhDs seemed to have little effect on the rest of the college-educated population, evangelicals included. Ronald Reagan received strong support from white college graduates during his reelection campaign of 1984, and a majority of white college grads continued to support the Republican Party until the 21st century.

This meant that most college-educated evangelicals who voted for Reagan in the 1980s or supported the Christian Right in the 1990s didnt have to worry about alienating their secular friends. Those friends might not have shared evangelicals views on abortion or sexuality, but they probably didnt view voting Republican as immoral.

That began to change in this century, starting with the defection of many college-educated Americans from the Republican coalition during George W. Bushs presidency. Some left because of opposition to the Iraq War. Others were fed up with Bushs stance on cultural issues including embryonic stem cell research and same-sex marriage. One way or another, by the end of Bushs presidency, the Republican Party was moribund in educated areas of the Northeast and West Coast, places where it had been reasonably strong a decade prior.

But that didnt hurt the GOP very much, because it offset those losses with a rising appeal to non-college-educated Americans. As the Republican Party became more rural, Southern, and working-class, the partys policy positions began to shift to reflect the interests of this new constituency. Its positions on immigration and gun control became more hard-line, and its commitment to free trade and entitlement reform started to soften.

At first, those differences received little attention, but the nations polarization over former president Donald Trump exacerbated this divide and brought it into the open, including in the evangelical church. Today, the core of Trumps constituency is united by a strong opposition to the establishment, whether in government, the media, or educationor maybe even their own denominations. As Trump Republicans have taken over their party, this anti-establishment ethos has become part of the whole GOPs identity.

The Democratic Party, meanwhile, is increasingly a pro-establishment party supported by college-educated Americans. Its agenda includes things that establishment evangelicals (such as the National Associations of Evangelicals) have also historically cared about, like efforts to fight climate change or honor the human dignity of undocumented immigrants. Both of those causes, which the NAE has endorsed in the past, incur strong opposition from anti-establishment Republicans, evangelicals included.

But the modern Democratic agenda also includes things that establishment evangelicals have historically opposed, especially abortion and an ever more progressive ethic on sex and gender.

Heres where the position of college-educated evangelicals gets complicated. Most voters who share our educational class are uninterested in or actively hostile to biblical values on life and sexuality. Its easy for them to wholly embrace the contemporary Democratic Partys pro-establishment agenda, abortion and LGBTQ activism as much as immigration reform and environmental care.

On the other hand, most voters who share our faith are non-college-educated, anti-establishment Republicans. They find it similarly easy to reject that whole Democratic agenda, and perhaps also to dismiss anyone with any sympathy for any part of it as woke, weak, or leftist.

So what do we do? College-educated evangelicals could stay in the awkward middle forever, remaining aligned with fellow evangelicals on abortion and sexual ethics while continuing to partner with fellow college grads on immigration and climate policy. But recent polling data Ive reviewed suggests that isnt whats happening. Instead, many college-educated evangelicals are reacting to this dissonance by turning their backs on the GOP and, in some cases, on non-college-educated evangelicals.

Weve seen this at the individual level, of course. More than a few who made this choice have ended up leaving evangelicalism altogether and/or spending a significant amount of time battling evangelical Republicans online. But we can see it at the national scale too.

As late as 2016, there was no statistical difference between the voting choices of college-educated and non-college-educated evangelicals. That year, 81 percent of college-educated white evangelical voters cast their ballots for Trump, as did 80 percent of white evangelical voters without a college degree.

This changed by 2020. Then, 84 percent of non-college-educated white evangelical voters voted for Trump. But among college-educated white evangelicals, support for Trump markedly decreased to just 63 percent. That means a remarkable 21-point educational gap developed among white evangelicals over the course of a single presidential election cycle.

This class-based division in evangelical opinion continued after the 2020 election. An American Enterprise Institute study from March 2022 showed that only 51 percent of white evangelicals with a bachelors degree had a favorable view of Trump, compared to 77 percent of white evangelicals who had not attended college. The evangelical groups that historically have been the most suspicious of ecclesiastical and political establishments and the least likely to be college-educatedsuch as Pentecostals, for instancehave also been Trumps strongest supporters.

And theres every indication that divide will widen this year. A poll in early June 2024 showed that President Joe Bidens support among voters (of all faiths) without a college degree had dropped by 10 percentage points since 2020, while his support during that same period had slipped by only 1 percentage point among college-educated voters. I expect well see similarperhaps even accelerateddynamics with Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee.

Consequently, this November, college-educated evangelicals will face a choice. Like many of our educational peers, we could vote for the establishment, a choice that may well alienate us from fellow church members and the broader evangelical movement. Or we could vote for the anti-establishment party, burning bridges with our college-educated friends and colleagues.

Neither one of those choices strikes me as a particularly good one, and I want to suggest an alternative.

To begin, college-educated evangelicals must recognize that were a minority in our faith tradition. Most fellow evangelicals will make political choices that dont line up with ours. This reality can be easy to miss if all our friends are college-educated and the only Christian books were reading are those written for us.

By the time of pastor Timothy Kellers death last year, for example, all of his books combined had sold just over 2 million copies. Thats a lot, but Jerry Jenkins and Tim LaHayes Left Behind series sold 80 million copies. Far more American Christians have encountered the apocalyptic good-versus-evil scenarios presented in those books than have ever read Kellers apologetics.

Similarly, if were part of a congregation or denomination that disproportionately attracts college-educated members, we may greatly exaggerate the importance of trends among people in our own circleslike a move toward more liturgical worship or a rediscovery of the Reformed heritage or the early church fathers. Denominations well-represented among the evangelical elite, like the Presbyterian Church in America (where Keller pastored), the Christian Reformed Church (home of James K. A. Smith and Nicholas Wolterstorff), and the Anglican Church in North America (which includes Esau McCaulley, Tish Harrison Warren, and now Beth Moore) are smaller than many realize.

Those churches have national memberships of just 400,000, 200,000, and 125,000, respectively. Even put together, theyre far outnumbered by the Assemblies of Gods 3 million members, the Southern Baptist Conventions 13 million members, or the 16 million who attend nondenominational churches. The educated evangelical bubble is very small.

If we exist in that bubble, we may come to find it incomprehensible that other evangelicals do things like flying Trump 2024 flags on their trucks. We need to learn to comprehend it. We need to acknowledge that our circles are politically unusual, and thats okay. And when we see reports this November (as we surely will) that most evangelicals voted for Trump, we shouldnt be shocked. In our current political climate, thats exactly what wed expect from such anti-establishment voters.

As for how we vote, this electionand each one after itmay be a moment of reckoning for college-educated evangelicals like me. Well feel forced to choose one major party or the other. But what if were convinced neither side sufficiently represents the values of Christs kingdom?

That should mean we wont fully align ourselves with either, which will also mean continuing dissonance among our educated friends and fellow evangelicals alike. That might never feel comfortable, but discomfort doesnt excuse us from maintaining a charitable disposition toward Christians who disagree with us, knowing that were all fallible. This new class difference may prove durable, but it neednt divide the body of Christ.

If our education becomes a path to understanding rather than a component of our tribal identity, it can be a valuable gift in the kingdom of God instead of a marker of political division.

Daniel K. Williams teaches American history at Ashland University and is the author of The Politics of the Cross: A Christian Alternative to Partisanship.
Illustration by Christianity Today / Source Images: Getty / Unsplash

On June 23, authorities arrested Sarju Prasad, a pastor in Uttar Pradesh, for conducting Sunday worship in his house. Earlier that day, two Hindu men, one claiming to be a journalist, had entered his house during the morning service and taken photographs.

That evening, two policemen detained Prasad on charges of plans to commit cognizable offenses. However, their explanations only came out later; at the time, they did not notify him of the grounds of arrest, a violation of Indias Code of Criminal Procedure. They also ignored the procedures requirement that the offender be brought before a judge within 24 hours of being taken into custody.

Instead, Prasad was only presented before a magistrate two days later and was released on bail on June 25. Shortly after, on July 2, while collecting his cell phone at the police station, authorities re-arrested him, saying that he had violated the states anti-conversion law. This time, he was denied bail and is now in prison.

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Prasads case is just one of many where the local police have allegedly colluded with Hindu extremists and arrested Christians conducting peaceful prayers, tyrannizing their rights. Indian Christians are apprehensive about what might happen under the new criminal laws that have replaced their three British-era counterparts. Described as draconian by some legal experts, the legislation has elicited criticism and protests, and Christian, Muslim, and other vulnerable communities fear possible abuses of the new laws.

The Parliament of India approved the three new laws last December without following due process, according to the opposition. They replaced the Indian Penal Code with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Code of Criminal Procedure with the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Indian Evidence Act with the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), all of which came into effect on July 1.

Proponents argue that these long-overdue reforms aim to modernize the justice system, leveraging technology to improve efficiency and accessibility, such as allowing police complaints to be registered remotely or permitting the use of videos as court evidence.

Further, India needs legislation not based on colonial prejudices and practices but on the principles of access of justice to all, said Rajiv Mani, secretary of the Legislative Department. The three laws have hence been enacted to overhaul the criminal justice system in the country to make it citizen-centric.

However, critics contend that the new laws grant the government excessive authority through the police to restrict free speech and to crack down on those who express dissent or criticism of the government, potentially infringing on civil liberties and disproportionately affecting minority communities.

For instance, Father Stan Swamy, an advocate for the tribals and the Dalits, was arrested under the terrorist act. Father Swamy believed this was a deliberate effort to put me out of the way, and one easy way was to implicate me in some serious cases. Despite his deteriorating health conditions and being 84, Swamy was ultimately denied bail and died while incarcerated in 2021.

Christians in India, who in recent years have been subject to violence and other persecution at the hands of Hindu nationalists and the police, now worry that speaking out about their plight could lead to prosecution. They have witnessed several cases where the police have been mere spectators while Hindu extremists barged into churches, disrupting services, vandalizing church property, and assaulting the pastor.

Christians have also been falsely implicated in the past for desecrating Hindu idols, such as when Hindu extremists planted broken idols near the property of a Christian man. Ironically, the same law is not applicable to Hindu extremists who desecrate Christian religious symbols.

In a more recent instance, on July 27, Hindu extremists entered a Catholic school in Madhya Pradesh and objected to the Christian religious symbols on the school premises and in the classrooms. In the presence of the police, they removed Christian images and symbols from the classrooms and installed pictures of Hindu idols. Yet no action has been taken against the mobinstead, against the school. These stories of police officers acting sympathetically to Hindu extremists means that minority groups fear nearly any legislation giving law enforcement officers more power.

Many already believe that the criminal justice system has been stacked against minorities: 76 percent of prisoners sentenced to death in India between 2000 and 2015 were from backward classes and religious minorities, according to a 2016 study.

As India grapples with these significant changes to its legal landscape, CT spoke with Robin Ratnakar David, a Christian and a lawyer practicing at the Supreme Court of India, to understand the implications of these new laws, particularly for Indias minority communities.

Were these new criminal laws necessary?

The new criminal laws largely repurpose and consolidate existing ones. While there are some new provisions, the essence remains unchanged, raising questions about the necessity of such an extensive overhaul when amendments could have sufficed.

For laws to be effective and just, they must be shaped by inclusive dialogue with various stakeholders, including legal experts, civil society organizations, and the affected communities. On the contrary, when these bills were passed in Parliament, no proper debate was conducted, as many ministers had been suspended.

If the goal was to modernize and improve the legal framework, overhauling the Police Act of 1861 would have been more impactful. Viewed widely as unprofessional, insensitive, brutal, and corrupt, this measure was designed for colonial control rather than public service. The British instated it after the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny, a rebellion against the British East India Companys rule led primarily by Indian soldiers (sepoys).

The Indian government has previously recommended police reforms, and, in 2006, a Model Police Act was suggested, which was not fully implemented.

What aspects of the new criminal laws could pose problems for Christians and other vulnerable groups?

Previously, the laws concerning terrorism were only found in the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA), which is not related to the recently enacted three laws and is still in effect. Under this legislation, the police require prior written permission from the designated authority before seizing the property of the accused. Terrorism now also falls under the new BNS law and gives the police a free hand in seizing any property associated with the crime. The BNSs definition of terrorism is also broader. The UAPA requires an intention to strike terror, while the BNS includes acts intended to intimidate the general public or disturb public order.

This overlap creates legal ambiguity, allowing the police free rein to decide whether to book a case under the UAPA or BNS. If the goal was to expand terrorism laws, amending the UAPA might have been more appropriate than introducing parallel but contradictory definitions in the BNS. There is speculation that including these provisions under the BNS could lead to its use disproportionately against minorities, as has been the case with the UAPA.

What other sections would you call out?

The BNS has another section that states that anyone who excites or attempts to excite secession or armed rebellion or subversive activities has broken the law. The broad and potentially vague definitions raise concerns about potential misuses against dissenters, activists, and minority groups.

This section (305d of the BNS) punishes the theft of vehicles, government property, religious idols, and icons with up to seven years imprisonment. Theres already concerns that this may be subjectively applied and used to target the Christian community.

What should Christians know about the BSAs new provisions regarding admission of electronic evidence in court?

In 2014, Indias Supreme Court warned that electronic evidence can be easily altered, potentially leading to unfair trials if not properly protected. The new BSA allows electronic records as evidence in court, such as website content, text messages, server logs, computer/laptop/smartphone data, emails, location data, etc. However, it fails to include measures to ensure the authenticity and integrity of digital evidence. This lack of safeguards raises concerns about the potential misuse or manipulation of electronic proof in legal proceedings.

Christians who are in the habit of streaming their Sunday church services live and uploading their sermons and messages, prayers and prayer meetings, should keep all of this in mind. Christians should monitor and moderate content responsibly, as failure to manage content can lead to liability.

Christians should take extra care while posting content, ensuring it is respectful and appropriate. They must share only accurate and verified information. They must obtain permission before they share someone elses content. And they must not post any defamatory or illegal material.

How do you respond to claims that these laws give police broader powers that could be misused against vulnerable communities?

Since this act has been recently enacted, it may be too early to comment definitively on the potential abuse of police powers.

An area of concern is that BNSS Section 187 allows the police to detain and question an accused person for a total of 15 days. That was the case earlier as well, but that was 15 days in a row, unlike in this new law, where the 15 days can be spread over 40 to 60 days of the total detention period of 60 to 90 days. This means that instead of being questioned for a continuous 15-day period, the police can repeatedly detain, release, and re-arrest the accused.

This approach could prolong the accuseds anxiety and uncertainty for up to three months, potentially being used as a means of harassment. It could also lead to the denial of bail for the entire period until the police exhaust the 15-day custody allowance.

There is a legitimate concern that this provision could be misused by the police as a means of undue harassment without corresponding provisions to address police misconduct. Petitions challenging the implementation of these laws have been filed in high courts and the Supreme Court.

Are some critics exaggerating the dangers while overlooking the real issue of legal awareness among minorities?

While some critics may emphasize the dangers, it is also crucial to address the real issue of legal awareness among minorities. Ensuring that all citizens are informed about their rights and the laws can help mitigate potential misuse and promote fair enforcement. Increasing legal literacy and awareness can empower minorities and reduce the risk of discriminatory practices at the enforcement level.

Thus, while vigilance against potential misuse is essential, fostering legal awareness and education within vulnerable communities is equally critical to ensuring justice and equality for all.
Gordon College could be on the hook to repay $7 million of COVID-19 relief funds. A federal court rejected eight of the evangelical schools arguments that it should be eligible for loan forgiveness.

Gordons lawyers made the case that the religious liberty protections in the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act should allow the institution to count employees in a different way than the US Small Business Administration (SBA) said they had to be counted. The US district court in Washington, DC, rejected the argument, citing a lack of evidence.

Plaintiff alleges no facts connecting its number of employees to any religious practice, Judge Beryl A. Howell wrote in a ruling handed down in July. Plaintiff fails to identify any exercise of religion that has been burdened, and thus plaintiffs claims can be dismissed on this basis alone.

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According to the government, Gordon has 639 employees on its wooded campus on the North Shore of Boston. Some of those people only work part time, however. So the school calculated the full-time equivalent, which is a common way to track enrollment in higher education. If you dont tally individual people working at the school, but instead count units of time worked, Gordon only has 495.67 employees.

Organizations with fewer than 500 employees are eligible for loan forgiveness.

The government gave out nearly $800 billion as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act passed by Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2020. The vast majority of recipients have since had their debt waived. Gordon is an exception.

Gordon College followed the procedures given at the time of the loan application, the school said in a statement, and most importantly, used these funds completely in the manner in which they were presented by the SBA: to avoid layoffs of employees and continue to provide them with a paycheck even though the College was forced to shut down operations for months.

In court filings, the law firm Gammon and Grange said the SBAs decision not to forgive the schools $7 million loan was legally erroneous and arbitrary and capricious on the merits. It was also, the attorneys claim, religious discrimination.

Gordon, which has about 1,300 students enrolled in undergraduate programs, requested a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan in April 2020. The application form asked for a count of employees, and Gordon gave the number: 495.67. The schools lawyers say the method of counting the full-time equivalent was clearly indicated.

According to Gordon, more than 25 other colleges and universities also used the full-time equivalent to calculate loan eligibility. Most applicants, however, just counted people.

No one was sure if there was a right way, at the time.

There was widespread confusion, Gordons lawsuit says, about what method to determine the number of employees should be used.

At the end of April, the SBA put out a statement on its FAQ page about full-time equivalent counts. The government agency said the number of employees should be determined by a simple head count, treating full- and part-time employees equally. The SBA also clarified that the 500-employee cap only applied to loan forgiveness. Organizations with more employees than that would still be considered eligible for funding but would be required to pay the money back.

By that time, though, Gordon had already gotten its loan from Citizens Bank, a PPP partner, and was using the money to keep the 639 people who worked at the school employed.

Court records indicate that the school didnt learn of the issue with its eligibility for loan forgiveness until November 2021, when Citizens Bank said in an email that the SBA needed an employee count per location. The school responded within a few days, giving the government a new number, based on a head count: 639.

In April 2022, the SBA notified Gordon that its application for loan forgiveness was denied.

Gordon appealed and then appealed again, taking the SBA to court.

The lawyers claimed that the SBA Court refused to even consider an exemption or other relief from a cramped and unconstitutional interpretation of the 500 employee threshold. Even worse, the SBA discriminated against Plaintiff-Petitioner, an evangelical Christian college with religiously and socially conservative views, by treating other, similarly situated religious colleges better than it has Plaintiff-Petitioner.

Gordon alleges that 25 other schools that counted employees the same way were forgiven loans of $5 to $10 million each.

Judge Howell ruled, however, that Gordon did not back up that claim with sufficient evidence. Many of the other schools that Gordon pointed to were, in fact, also Christian institutions. The lawyers mentioned Wheaton College, Trevecca Nazarene University, Drew University, and St. Marys College Notre Dame.

Gordon, Howell wrote, offers no facts to support its conclusory allegation that these 25 other colleges are similarly situatedmuch less similarly situated in all respects except religious affiliation.

Howell also found there wasnt evidence to show that counting employees was connected to religion at all.

No allegation is made that the 500-employee cap or SBAs methods for counting employees were enacted to target or single out any religious conduct or institutions, the judge wrote, nor that the cap or employee-counting methodology employed have an adverse impact on religion.

And according to Howell, there isnt even evidence that SBA officials knew Gordon was a Christian school.

The Massachusetts college is not the only PPP loan recipient that has been told it will have to pay the money back. The SBA has manually audited about 2 percent of all PPP loans and denied forgiveness to about 0.2 percent. That works out to around 21,000 organizations that will have to pay back relief money.

According to some experts, the approval process was rushed in response to the fear of financial crisis brought on by the pandemic. That allowed for a lot of fraudas well as many honest mistakes.

A lot of the details were very unclear to businesses and banks, Eric Lichatin, a commercial loan officer who handled PPP applications for a bank in Rhode Island, told NPR.

Steven Mnuchin, who was treasury secretary under Donald Trump and oversaw the program design, had said that the needs of small businesses were too urgent to set up a lengthy loan review process in 2020. But he assured a House oversight committee in 2020 that there would be more careful scrutiny when it came time to forgive loans.

We are going to have a very robust process, he said. People will be required to provide much more data.

One lawyer who advises PPP borrowers for a New Jersey law firm said that has happened, and now the SBA is playing hardball on loan forgiveness.

Some borrowersincluding a car dealership in New Jersey and a fitness club in Missouriare fighting back in court. Gordon appears to be the only one, however, making religious liberty claims for loan forgiveness.

Those arguments were rejected. The schools other arguments will go forward, with lawyers arguing the decision to deny the loan was a legal error, made in excess of SBAs statutory authority, and constituted an abuse of discretion (to the extent it had discretion), and that it was in violation of the Fourteenth Amendments guarantee of due process.

We believe those do provide sufficient grounds for the Court to reverse the SBAs denial of forgiveness, Gordon said in a statement, and hope to see a favorable resolution of this issue in the future. 

This story was updated with quotes from a statement from Gordon that was unavailable at time of publicaiton.
Home News 6 Christians arrested in Paris for riding bus protesting Olympics opening ceremony 'They are tyrannical, anti-Christian bullies'

A group of six Christians and a driver were arrested Monday in Paris, France, for riding around in a bus that featured a graphic objecting to the Olympics opening ceremony and demanding an end to attacks on Christians.

Six team members with CitizenGO, a Madrid-based conservative advocacy group that engages in activism primarily by circulating online petitions, were detained and spent the night in jail, the organization said Tuesday.

"Six of our team members were forced to spend the night in jail for simply denouncing the mockery of Christians by having the message 'STOP ATTACKS ON CHRISTIANS' written on a bus," CitizenGO tweeted, adding that their bus activism "is not illegal in any way."

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Six of our team members were forced to spend the night in jail for simply denouncing the mockery of Christians by having the message "STOP ATTACKS ON CHRISTIANS" written on a bus. This is not illegal in any way, as a lawyer states:



It appears impossible to constitute the crime pic.twitter.com/eSN542E8ig  CitizenGO (@CitizenGO) August 6, 2024

The bus also linked to a petition the organization started demanding an apology from the International Olympic Committee for its opening ceremony that mocked the Last Supper with drag queens, exposed male genitalia, and an obese lesbian DJ in the place of Jesus.

"What happens if we stay silent? Our faith, our Christian symbols, will become a permanent parody promoted by queer, LGBTI, and trans lobbies, backed by our globalist leaders and the international left," reads the petition, which has racked up more than 387,000 signatures as of Wednesday.

"This was a deliberate and vicious parody humiliating our most cherished beliefs as Christians  they know we are an easy target," the petition continued. "And until we stop them, they will keep doing it. This is about standing up for our faith and ensuring that such blatant profanity is never repeated."

"We cannot allow them to desecrate our Lord Jesus Christ with such obscenities. If we remain silent, we are sending a message that such disrespect is acceptable."

In what CitizenGO suggested was a display of "anti-Christian political and ideological persecution," the team members were reportedly jailed in "gross" conditions, strip-searched and prohibited from calling their lawyers or having access to water.

According to a press release from CitizenGO founder Ignacio Arsuaga, the bus had been driving around Paris since 9 a.m. without incident until French law enforcement surrounded it and stopped it at gunpoint, arresting the six campaigners and the bus driver at around 7 p.m.

Arsuaga alleged without evidence that police were dispatched to stop the bus by a French prosecutor under the orders of French President Emmanuel Macron.

He added that his organization plans to file a lawsuit against Macron, the prosecutor and the French police.

"Woke governments are becoming increasingly totalitarian," he said.

CitizenGO's lawyer reportedly secured the release of the campaigners sometime after 4 a.m. the following day and maintained that they did nothing illegal.

"It appears impossible to constitute the crime of failing to communicate a protest because there is no protest in the presence of one unique vehicle," the lawyer said. "The prosecutor pushed the law to its limits to stop the bus and limit their free speech. Moreover, the procedure was irregular."

CitizenGO also tweeted footage of their bus being escorted by police out of Paris after the arrests.

"They are tyrannical, anti-Christian bullies," CitizenGO said. "It's absurd."

CitizenGo's tweet drew the attention of X CEO Elon Musk, who tweeted two exclamation marks in response.

CitizenGo, though founded in Spain, claims to have team members in 15 cities on three continents and campaigns in 11 languages intended to influence government and organizations in 50 different countries, according to its website.
Home News Elon Musk tussles with UK PM Keir Starmer over 'civil war' tweet

Elon Musk has been publicly tussling with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government after the X CEO predicted an "inevitable" civil war in the United Kingdom as violent protests have erupted in the country after a second-generation immigrant fatally stabbed three young British girls and attempted to kill 10 others.

"Civil war is inevitable," Musk tweeted Saturday in response to a comment from journalist Ashley St. Clair, who posted footage of the riots and wrote, "The effects of mass migration and open borders is whats going on."

Violent clashes between largely white anti-immigration protesters and Muslim militia have engulfed towns and cities in England and Northern Ireland, prompting Starmer to threaten a clampdown on what he described as "far-right thuggery" both in the streets and online, according to The New York Times.

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The turmoil began after Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, a second-generation Rwandan immigrant to the U.K., brutally stabbed and killed three British girls aged 6, 7, and 9 and wounded eight other children and two adults at a dance class in Southport, which is about 17 miles north of Liverpool on the western coast of England.

Rudakubana, who turns 18 on Wednesday, was born in Cardiff, Wales, though his actions have prompted debate regarding to what extent immigrants to the U.K. are assimilating to British culture.

Musk's assertion about civil war drew pushback from Starmer, whose spokesperson said, "There is no justification for comments like that."

The spokesperson attributed the violent protests to "organized illegal thuggery which has no place on our streets or online."

"Were 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 continued. "You can tell from that the prime minister doesnt share those sentiments."

Heidi Alexander, the U.K.'s justice minister, also scolded Musk, claiming his rhetoric about civil war was "totally unjustified" and that someone with a platform of his size should "behave responsibly."

Musk doubled down on trolling the prime minister and the U.K. government amid the backlash.

In response to Starmer reporting that he would be dispatching "standing armies" to "ramp up criminal justice" and "apply criminal law online as well as offline," while ensuring there are no "attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities," Musk wrote: "Shouldn't you be concerned about attacks on all communities?"

Shouldnt you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities?  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 5, 2024

Musk reiterated his assertion in another post, retweeting footage of "Muslim patrol" members surrounding and attacking a pub on Aug. 5 in Birmingham.

"Why arent all communities protected in Britain?" Musk wrote. He also tweeted the hashtag "#TwoTierKeir," suggesting the prime minister was not upholding the law equally.

On Tuesday, Musk also posted a meme of a "Family Guy" character being sentenced to the electric chair, to which he added, "In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didnt like."

Musk was making an apparent reference to a video that went viral on X in recent days that showed British police officers arresting an elderly man for making "offensive" Facebook posts in alleged violation of the Communications Act of 2003.

The fatal stabbing of the children was preceded by a separate targeted attack on a British Army officer who was stabbed 12 times by an unnamed masked 24-year-old man who fled the scene on a moped, The Telegraph reported.

British man arrested for making offensive comments on his Facebook page



Americans used to the First Amendment are often surprised about the number of arrests made in the UK for speech crimes



There will by many arrests after the recent riots as online tensions were very high



???????? pic.twitter.com/m3jbbE9wBx  Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) August 5, 2024
Home News JD Vance crosses paths with Kamala Harris in Wisconsin, calls her 'disgraceful'

GOP vice presidential nominee Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, walked over to Vice President Kamala Harris' Air Force Two and criticized her in front of the press pool after his plane landed on the same tarmac in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Wednesday.



Approaching the reporters stationed near Air Force Two at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, where Harris had already departed in her motorcade, Vance told them he "wanted to see if we could look at the plane" because "hopefully it's going to be my plane in a few months."

Vance and Harris on the same tarmac in Eau Claire.



Vance comes over to cameras covering AF2 arrival...



"... hopefully it's going to be my plane in a few months. I also thought you guys may get lonely, bc the VP doesn't answer q's from reporters..."



Vid: @WEAU13Newspic.twitter.com/QhUS2MtEby  James Stratton (@StrattonWISN) August 7, 2024

Vance expressed sympathy for the reporters, noting how Harris has not answered reporters' questions since replacing President Joe Biden as the presumptive 2024 Democratic nominee last month.

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"I also thought you guys might get lonely because the vice president doesn't answer questions from reporters and hasn't for 17 days," Vance said.

"Did they give you guys an explanation for why she won't take questions from reporters?" Vance asked the press gaggle, none of whom responded.

"I hope that she changes her mind because it would be good for the American people, and I think it would be good for you all if she actually ran a real campaign instead of one from a basement with a teleprompter," he added.

Vance turned to walk away before a reporter asked him what he would like to hear from Harris.

"I just want her to answer some questions," Vance said. "I'd love her to answer just what she wants to do and also explain why every single position she has has changed."

"She pretends to be a tough-on-crime prosecutor, yet here she is wanting to defund the police. She's the border czar, yet she's opened up the American southern border. This is a person who has to answer some questions from the media, and it's disgraceful that she runs from you guys," he continued.

"I wish she paid more attention to you all," Vance added as he walked away.

After footage of Vance's pit stop at Air Force Two went viral on X, Vance tweeted, "I thought the reporters traveling with Kamala might be a little lonely given that she never answers questions from them, so I figured I'd come say hello and check out my new plane while I was at it."

Both Vance and Harris had competing events in Eau Claire on Wednesday.

Harris' campaign stop in the city as part of her tour through the battleground states marks her first rally since announcing Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minn., as her running mate on Tuesday.

Wisconsin is one of the key swing states in the upcoming presidential election. In 2020, President Biden won the state with fewer than 21,000 votes.
Home News A strategic blunder: Minnesota megachurch pastor, Samuel Rodriguez denounce Tim Walz VP pick

Hispanic Evangelical leader Rev. Samuel Rodriguez and a Minnesota megachurch pastor have issued a joint statement denouncing the selection of Tim Walz as Vice President Kamala Harris' vice presidential running mate.

In a statement emailed to The Christian Post, Robert Ketterling, author and founding pastor of the multi-campus River Valley Church in Minnesota, and Rodriguez, a California pastor who heads the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, called the Walz selection a "strategic blunder that could spell disaster for her campaign."

The two listed what they said were "five compelling reasons" why Walz "will tank Kamala Harris' presidential candidacy."

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Those include Walz being from a "deep blue" liberal state, his "open borders" view on immigration, his "widely criticized" response to the 2020 George Floyd protests, the lockdown measures he took during the COVID-19 pandemic and his reported alienation of more moderate voters.

"By choosing Tim Walz, Kamala Harris has effectively alienated independent and moderate voters  an electoral demographic crucial for winning battleground states like Pennsylvania, Nevada, Arizona, and North Carolina," wrote Rodriguez and Ketterling.

"Walz has signed laws restricting free speech for pastors, made derogatory comments about conservatives, and embraced socialism  all of which make him an unappealing choice for those in the political center. His lack of likability, often coming across as angry and on the edge of violence, only exacerbates his inability to connect with a broader electorate."

The two pastors argued that "liberal policies, ineffective crisis management, divisive rhetoric, and failure to appeal to independent and moderate voters make him a liability rather than an asset."

"In conclusion, Kamala Harris' selection of Governor Tim Walz as her running mate is a critical misstep," they concluded. "For a campaign that needs to bridge divides and attract a broad coalition of voters, Tim Walz is unequivocally the wrong choice."

On Tuesday morning, Harris selected Walz, a former high school teacher and military veteran, to be her running mate. Harris is the 2024 presumptive Democratic nominee for president after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race last month.

"Tim is a relentless advocate for working families and a battle-tested leader who has cut taxes for working families, protected fundamental rights, and passed paid family and medical leave," Harris stated in an email sent to supporters on Tuesday evening.

"Choosing Tim to be my running mate was not a decision I made lightly  it was important to me to select a candidate with governing experience and a proven track record of getting things done on behalf of their constituents. I know he will bring as much joy to our campaign as he will fight and grit."

Although Walz doesn't discuss his faith often, he has mentioned on social media that he attends Pilgrim Lutheran Church in St. Paul, affiliated with the theologically liberal Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

"The fact that Tim Walz is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America is right out of central casting," Eastern Illinois University political science professor Ryan Burge tweeted. "11% of Minnesotans are ELCA. The only group that's larger is the Catholic Church. The only two states w/a higher concentration of ELCA are the Dakotas."

David Searcy, assistant professor of political science at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, notes that Walz would be "the first member of the ELCA to hold national executive office."

"He would arguably be the first Lutheran period  depending on how you classify Humphrey," he wrote.

Mollie Hemingway, editor-in-chief of The Federalist, said that she, as a "confessional Lutheran," has been getting many questions about Walz being Lutheran.

"FWIW, Walz is ELCA, an extremely left-wing sub-denomination," she wrote in an X post. "You may be familiar with the ELCA due to some of their congregations using the 'sparkle creed' or hosting drag shows."
Home News Squad member Cori Bush issues warning to pro-Israel group after defeat

Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., a member of the Democratic Partys far-left wing, often referred to as the Squad, promised to retaliate against a pro-Israel activist group after she lost her bid for reelection in her party's primary.

Bush is the second Squad member to lose a primary election following Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., who was the first to be ousted by voters and was heavily opposed by AIPAC.

Bush lost on Tuesday to St. Louis County District Attorney Wesley Bell, whose campaign received support from AIPAC. AIPACs political action committee, the United Democracy Project, spent $8.5 million to help fund Bells campaign, The Associated Press reported.

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In response to an inquiry from The Christian Post, AIPAC shared a published statement about Bush's loss that described the Democrat lawmaker as being among the extremist fringe that is hostile to the Jewish state.

During this primary season, the pro-Israel mainstream has sent a powerful message that America stands with Israel as it battles Iranian terrorist proxies, AIPAC stated. Voters across America are rejecting anti-Israel voices in favor of candidates who understand the vital importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship.

Last month, Westchester County Executive George Latimer defeated Bowman, another far-left member of the Democrat Party. According to a page AIPAC created at the time of the race, Bowman called the creation of Israel a catastrophe and voted against a bipartisan resolution that condemned Hamas and expressed support for Israel.

In addition to the defeat of two Democratic lawmakers, AIPAC highlighted Republican Rep. Bob Goods loss to John McGuire in the Virginia primary. Goods opposition to providing aid to Israel cost him support, The Times of Israel reported in July.

The outcome in this race  as in so many others  shows that the pro-Israel position is both good policy and good politics for both parties, AIPAC added.

The United Democracy Project also celebrated Bells win in a Tuesday statement, citing it as proof that being pro-Israel is good policy and good politics on both sides of the aisle. The group pledged to continue supporting political leaders who will help strengthen the United States alliance with Israel while opposing detractors.

In a speech to supporters Tuesday night following her defeat, Bush said that pulling [her] away from [her] position as congresswoman took some of the strings off. Bush said that now she no longer has to worry about those strings.

And as much as I love my job, all they did was radicalize me, and now they should be afraid, she said. Theyre about to see this other Cori, this other side.

There is nothing that happens in my life that happens in vain. So, this happened because it was meant to happen, Bush continued. And let me say, its because of the work that I need to do. And let me say this: AIPAC, Im coming to tear your kingdom down!

In a November statement to National Public Radio about his campaign, Bell acknowledged that Bushs remarks about Israel played a part in his decision to run against her. The prosecutor received endorsements from Jewish leaders who had supported Bush in the past, according to NPR.

"I think [Bushs] comments show a lack of understanding of the nuance and complexities of an issue that's literally hundreds of years in the making," Bell said.

A few weeks after the Hamas terror groups Oct. 7 attacks against Israel, Bush published a post on X calling for the U.S. to stop funding the Middle Eastern country. Hamas surprise assault resulted in the deaths of at least 1,200 people and the abduction of around 240 others, including 31 Americans. In response, Israel launched a military offensive in Gaza to eradicate the terrorist group and secure the hostages release.

We cant be silent about Israels ethnic cleansing campaign, Bush said about Israels military operation. Babies, dead. Pregnant women, dead. Elderly, dead. Generations of families, dead. Millions of people in Gaza with nowhere to go being slaughtered.

Bush isn't the only far-left lawmaker who's attracted controversy for her past statements about Israel.

Other squad members who faced pushback for their remarks about Israel and support for Gaza Solidarity encampments that popped up on college campuses earlier this year include Democrat Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Ilhan Omar of Minnesota. Ocasio-Cortez and Omar are named in a class-action lawsuit alongside Bowman for "inciting and encouraging" the violent anti-Israeli protest encampment at Columbia University.

Five anonymous plaintiffs filed the suit against the Democratic lawmakers and various anti-Israel groups. Two of the five plaintiffs behind the suit are Jewish, and they recounted the harassment and violence they faced on campus during the protests.

As the plaintiffs argued in the lawsuit, the three lawmakers visited the anti-Israel encampment in April and issued statements supporting the demonstrators. According to the plaintiffs, champions of the anti-Israel protest "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."
Home News Ukrainian Orthodox priest sentenced to 14 years in Russian labor camp on false espionage charges Ukrainian priest gets 14 years in labor camp on espionage charges

The Russian-controlled Crimean Supreme Court sentenced a Ukrainian Orthodox priest to 14 years in a harsh labor camp for a conviction on false espionage charges.

The Prosecutors Office alleged that the Rev. Kostiantyn Maksimov, 41, of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), used the internet to transmit coordinates of the deployment of Russian air defense equipment to the Ukrainian security service.

Rights group Forum 18 said there is no evidence to support the claim and that the prison sentence conflicts with international law under the Geneva Convention relative to the protection of civilians in time of war. Under this law, Russia is required to respect Ukrainian laws in occupied terrain.

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Im in such shock. I had hoped for less, Maksimovs mother, Svetlana Maksimova, told Forum 18 following the Aug. 2 hearing in Simferopol. We will appeal against the sentence, though I dont think it will be changed.

She has not seen her son since December 2021 and said she hoped he would be included in reported prisoner swaps between Ukraine and Russia. Forum 18 stated that Maksimov likely would remain inside Investigation Prison No. 2 in Simferopol, pending any appeal before transfer to a labor camp.

Under Article 276 of the Russian Criminal Code, espionage carries a jail term of 10 to 20 years.

Maksimov served at the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tokmak city, in Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Region.

He had been arrested by Russian forces in the town of Chongar in May 2023 after trying to cut across a border with occupied Crimea.

Russian authorities brought him to court with the trial beginning on June 6, more than a year after his initial arrest and incarceration.

Forum 18 has tried to obtain information about the trial by phoning the prison where Maksimov is jailed and Russian-controlled authorities such as the Zaporizhzhia Region Prosecutors Office in Melitopol, the duty prosecutor at the Crimean Prosecutors Office in Simferopol, the Zaporizhzhia Regional Court and the chancellery for criminal cases at Crimeas Supreme Court.

None of these authorities either answered or responded to the watchdog groups requests for further information.

Artyom Sharlay, head of the Russian occupiers Department for Work with Ethnic, Religious and Cossack Organizations of the Social and Political Communications Department, did not answer his phone, according to Forum 18. The department is part of the Internal Policy Department of the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia Regional Administration.

Sharlay previously told Forum 18 in October 2023 that Maksimov did not want the Berdyansk Diocese of the UOC to join with the Russian Orthodox Church.

The priests jail sentence is the latest event in a crackdown trend against Christians in Russian-occupied territory.
Home News 3 churches sue Minn. governor over face mask mandate, attendance limits

Three congregations in Minnesota have filed a lawsuit against Gov. Tim Walz over a recently issued order mandating the wearing of face masks and another order limiting worship attendance.

Cornerstone Church of Alexandria, Land of Promise Church of Buffalo, and Lifespring Church of Crosby filed suit on Thursday.

The churches lawsuit names Walz, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, and a few other local government officials as defendants.

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At issue are Executive Order 20-81 and statutes which mandate the wearing of facemasks for indoor spaces and does not offer an exemption for worship.

Wearing a mask makes singing, verbally praying and receiving communion at church more difficult and, at times, impossible, the suit argues.

The suit warns that the facemask mandate is a threat to religious freedom and chilling the plaintiffs and others constitutionally protected church attendance and religious activities, even if nobody is ever prosecuted for violating the executive orders.

The churches are also concerned about Executive Order 20-74, which limits indoor church attendance to 50% capacity and outdoor worship attendance to 250 people or fewer.

The plaintiffs church attendance is threatened by prosecutions under Executive Order 20-74 for violating the limitations on indoor and outdoor religious gatherings and the six-feet social distancing requirement, the suit adds.

Minnesota criminalizing conduct of church attendees suppresses plaintiffs ability to worship and practice their religion in houses of worship and restricts the ability of the plaintiffs to associate with other members of the faith.

Erick Kaardal, special counsel with the Thomas More Society, which is representing the churches, said in a statement that the governor gets an F in religious liberties.

Other states, including Texas, Illinois, and Ohio have excluded churches from COVID-19 mask mandates, he said.

Unlike Walz, those states have recognized that you cannot criminalize religious attendance at houses of worship for any reason. Governor Walz wants to prosecute Minnesotans for religious attendance. We are going to do our best not to see that happen.

For his part, the attorney general said in a statement that he and his staff review every executive order for its compliance with the law and state and federal constitutions.

I stand behind the legality and constitutionality of this executive order. We will defend it strongly in court just as we have so far successfully defended others in court, stated Ellison added, according to the Star Tribune.

In June, the World Health Organization released a Q&A on COVID-19 and facemasks, warning that the use of a mask alone is not sufficient to provide an adequate level of protection against COVID-19.

You should also maintain a minimum physical distance of at least 1 metre from others, frequently clean your hands and avoid touching your face and mask, explained WHO.

Non-medical, fabric masks are being used by many people in public areas, but there has been limited evidence on their effectiveness and WHO does not recommend their widespread use among the public for control of COVID-19.

Earlier this month, Pew Research Center released a report which found that 79% of surveyed respondents opposed giving houses of worship exemptions from COVID-19 lockdown orders.

Respondents who identified as evangelical Protestant were more likely to support giving houses of worship more flexibility, nevertheless 62% of them also opposed exemptions.

The survey also found that evangelical Protestants were less likely to believe that their churches should remain closed during the pandemic compared to other religious groups.

Eighteen percent of evangelical respondents said their churches should be closed, versus 27% of Catholics, 40% of mainline Protestants, and 41% of black Protestants.

Pew based its findings off a survey taken July 13-19 among 10,211 adults in the United States, with a margin of error for the full sample being plus or minus 1.5 percentage points.
Home News 5 facts to know about Kamala Harris' VP pick Tim Walz

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democrat nominee for president in the 2024 presidential election, announced Minnesotas Democrat Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday.

Walz has a career in politics spanning nearly 20 years that began with his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006. He defeated Republican incumbent Gil Gutknecht by a margin of 52.74% to 47.26%, winning Minnesotas First Congressional District.

Walz served in the House from 2007-2019. After barely winning reelection in 2016 as former President Donald Trump carried his district by nearly 15 percentage points in the concurrent presidential election, Walz retired ahead of the 2018 gubernatorial election to seek the Democrat nomination for governor.

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He ultimately won his partys nomination and won the general election by defeating Republican Jeff Johnson by a margin of 11.4 percentage points. He won reelection by a slightly smaller margin of 7.7 percentage points in 2022.

Throughout his political career, Walzs policy positions have been on the record for all to see, specifically his voting pattern in Congress and the laws he has approved as governor. Here are five things to know about Tim Walz.
Home News Has the 560K-member Nigerian Episcopal Area left the United Methodist Church over LGBT affirmation?

The mostly theologically liberal United Methodist Church and the theologically conservative Global Methodist Church are each claiming control of a regional body based in Nigeria.

The UMC Nigerian Episcopal Area comprises four regional bodies known as annual conferences, with a reported 560,000 members.

The GM Church released a statement on Wednesday announcing that its Transitional Leadership Council officially welcomed Nigerian Bishop Johnwesley Yohanna and the four annual conferences into membership with their denomination.

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According to the conservative denomination, the Southern Nigeria, Central Nigeria, Northern Nigeria and Northeast Nigeria Conferences voted unanimously to end their affiliation with the UMC and join them.

However, days before the GM Church released its announcement, the UMC Council of Bishops issued a statement saying that Yohanna had resigned as bishop and the liberal denomination had appointed an interim leadership team for the Nigerian Episcopal Area.

According to the announcement, the UMC bishops assigned Bishop John Schol, Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa and Bishop Patrick Streiff to serve as the interim episcopal team for the Nigeria Episcopal Area through December.

I am humbled and honored to be serving in this capacity, said Bishop Schol, as quoted in the UMC announcement. God has a great future for United Methodism in Nigeria.

The Christian Post contacted both denominations for clarification on the situation, and both maintained that the Nigerian Episcopal Area belongs to them.

GM Church Transitional Connectional Officer Keith Boyette told CP that their information on the matter came directly from those in positions of authority on the ground in Nigeria.

They informed me that unanimous votes were taken at the duly called special sessions of each of the four annual conferences in Nigeria to withdraw from The United Methodist Church and to align with the Global Methodist Church, Boyette said.

Boyette explained that his denomination has appointed leadership for each of the four Nigerian conferences and is moving ahead to receive congregations and clergy into membership in the Global Methodist Church.

A representative of the UMC forwarded CP a statement from UMC Council of Bishops President Tracy Malone, explaining that there is a process by which a regional body can leave the UMC.

Malone said in the statement that there are three steps an annual conference seeking disaffiliation from the UMC must take, in accordance with paragraph 572 of the UMC Book of Discipline.

These steps include: Approval by the Annual Conference Session at a duly called and promoted Annual Conference Session, Approval by the Central Conference and Approval by the General Conference.

None of the three votes occurred, stated Malone. Bishop Yohanna and his cabinet have resigned from The United Methodist Church.

Earlier this year, delegates at the UMC General Conference voted overwhelmingly to remove parts of the UMC Book of Discipline that prohibited the blessing of same-sex unions and the ordination of clergy in same-sex romantic relationships.

The General Conference votes came after more than 7,500 mostly conservative congregations disaffiliated from the denomination due to the decades-long debate over LGBT issues.

In May, shortly after the closing of the General Conference, the Cote d'Ivoire Conference, a West African-based regional body of approximately 1 million members, voted to leave the UMC over the changes.

In June, UMC Liberian Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr. announced that his regional body was not going to bless same-sex unions or allow for the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals.

"The Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church is traditional in its interpretation of Holy Scripture and will continue its evangelistic outreach to all persons who live in darkness and do not know the redemptive grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ," stated Quire.

"To all United Methodists in Liberia and our Liberian public, The United Methodist Church is not a GAY Church! It is a strong Church of God administering to sinners who are in need of the saving knowledge and grace of God!"
Home News Minneapolis seeks over $55 million in aid to restore city ravaged by riots

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said the city is expected to need well over $55 million in state and federal aid to rebuild hundreds of structures damaged or destroyed during several nights of violent riots sparked by the officer-involved death of George Floyd.

The city's Community Planning & Economic Development department has estimated that at least 220 buildings were damaged, resulting in a minimum of $55 million in costs, but that initial estimate is expected to rise significantly, according to the Star Tribune.

The city is "not yet ready to produce a credible estimate" of the losses, City Council members said Tuesday.

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"We will do everything we can as we shift to recovery mode," Frey was quoted as saying. "We're recovering from crises sandwiched on top of each other, from COVID-19 to the police killing and then the looting which took place afterward."

The mayor also said he expects the full cost of the damage to be "tens, if not hundreds of millions" of dollars in the Twin Cities.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has spoken to U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith and U.S. Reps. Ilhan Omar and Betty McCollum, who represent the Twin Cities, about the need for aid.

"To be realistic, the odds of that happening are, at best, very difficult," McCollum said, according to National Review. "If it is demonstrated [that] outside provocateurs committed acts of destruction then there is a clear rationale for an emergency declaration by President Trump."

Walz and the Twin Cities' mayors said last week that despite their initial beliefs that the majority of people looting and burning buildings came from out-of-state, in reality, 86% of people arrested last weekend alone lived in Minneapolis or the metro area, according to data taken from the Hennepin County Jail's roster that was first reported by news station KARE 11.

Minneapolis, looking like the aftermath of a war. pic.twitter.com/eEiF6gkJdL  Mark Higgie (@MarkHiggie1) June 6, 2020

Earlier this week, the FBI began asking for the public's assistance in identifying "violent instigators" who vandalized and torched buildings.

"We are committed to apprehending and charging violent instigators who are exploiting legitimate peaceful protests and engaging in violations of federal law," the FBI statement said in part, on Twitter.

"To help us identify actors who are actively instigating violence in the wake of George Floyd's death, the FBI is accepting tips and digital media depicting violent encounters surrounding the civil unrest that is happening throughout the country," the agency added in a statement online, asking people to submit "photos, or videos that could be relevant to the case."

Please send videos and photos of violent acts during last week's protests in the Twin Cities to https://t.co/FbTjuH3n1Q. pic.twitter.com/0kgxv0dCI6  FBI Minneapolis (@FBIMinneapolis) June 4, 2020

Rioting started two days after Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, died on May 25 while he was lying on the ground, handcuffed and restrained by three officers in Minneapolis. Several cellphone videos and police body cameras captured various aspects of the incident.

One bystander cellphone video taken at the scene shows former police officer Derek Chauvin kneeling on Floyd's neck for several minutes as two other officers hold on to his torso and legs. According to details listed chronologically in the criminal complaint against Chauvin, Floyd had refused to get into the police squad car, "stiffened up, fell to the ground, and told the officers he was claustrophobic."

Floyd, who had moved to Minnesota to start a new life following several incarcerations and a felony conviction for aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon in Texas, was arrested for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill at Cup Foods convenience store to purchase cigarettes. The clerk had called 911 to report the crime and said Floyd was intoxicated.

On Wednesday, prosecutors upgraded charges against Chauvin to second-degree murder. Three other officers  Thomas Lane, J.A. Kueng, and Tou Thoa  have been charged with aiding and abetting in Floyd's death. All four officers were fired from the department days after the incident.

The Hennepin County Medical Examiner's office on Monday ruled Floyd's manner of death was a homicide and stated that he suffered "a cardiopulmonary arrest while being restrained by law enforcement officer(s)." It also listed "arteriosclerotic and hypertensive heart disease," "fentanyl intoxication" and "recent methamphetamine use" as "other significant conditions."

Protests spread to several other cities, including Memphis, Los Angeles, San Jose, Louisville, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Detroit, Portland, New York City, and Washington, D.C., among others. While some demonstrators have remained peaceful, others have resorted to violence.

On Friday, Vice President Mike Pence joined Bishop Harry Jackson for a listening session with community and faith leaders, where he said the church is the right place to address the nation's response to the death of George Floyd and the protests over racism that followed.

"I couldn't help but feel that as our nation reels from the tragic death of George Floyd, that a place to start a conversation is a place of worship," Pence said at the listening session held at Hope Christian Church in Beltsville, Maryland, where Jackson is a senior pastor.

"It's the wellspring of our nation's strength," Pence continued, speaking to a select group of black and minority leaders representing churches, businesses, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations. "It's been the wellspring of our national unity and our steady march toward a more perfect union."
Home News Not a gay church: UMC of Liberia won't bless same-sex marriages, ordain LGBT clergy

The United Methodist Church in Liberia will not bless same-sex unions or ordain noncelibate homosexual clergy even after the denomination voted to allow both practices.

Liberian Bishop Samuel J. Quire Jr. released a statement earlier this month in response to the UMC General Conference voting overwhelmingly to remove rules from the UMC Book of Discipline prohibiting same-sex marriage and ordination.

Quire vowed that "the Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church will not conduct any weddings or ordinations of self-avowed, practicing homosexuals."

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"The Liberia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church is traditional in its interpretation of Holy Scripture and will continue its evangelistic outreach to all persons who live in darkness and do not know the redemptive grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ," he stated.

"To all United Methodists in Liberia and our Liberian public, The United Methodist Church is not a GAY Church! It is a strong Church of God administering to sinners who are in need of the saving knowledge and grace of God!"

Some in the Liberian conference are calling for a special session of the regional body to vote on leaving the UMC over the Book of Discipline changes, reported UM News.

At the UMC General Conference in late April to early May in Charlotte, delegates voted to remove from the Book of Discipline a host of rules like the ban on same-sex marriage ceremonies, the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals and the funding of LGBT advocacy groups. General Conference delegates also voted to remove a statement from the Book of Discipline declaring that homosexuality is "incompatible with Christian teaching."

These changes were aided by the recent departure of around 7,500 primarily conservative congregations from the UMC over disagreement with the refusal of many progressive leaders in the UMC to enforce the rules in the Book of Discipline related to LGBT issues.

Rev. Jerry P. Kulah, head of the Liberia Annual Conference delegation, was among African General Conference delegates who signed a statement criticizing the votes as "officially contradict[ing] the Bible's teaching on marriage and sexual morality."

"We return to Africa with important decisions to make regarding the future," they stated.

Since the changes, some churches and conferences in the global denomination have either opted to leave the UMC or have stated that they will not allow the officiation of same-sex weddings.

The UMC Cote d'Ivoire Conference, a regional body with more than 1 million members that had been affiliated with the UMC since 2004, voted to leave the denomination over the changes.

At the General Conference, the delegates voted to allow the Eurasian Episcopal Area, based in Eastern Europe, to disaffiliate from the denomination.

Highland Park United Methodist Church of Dallas, Texas, a prominent megachurch, announced last month that its would not allow same-sex weddings on its property, though they would permit pastors to officiate such unions at other venues.

"For 108 years, through 13 different senior ministers, Highland Park has always maintained the traditional definition and understanding of Christian marriage when it comes to weddings within our worship facilities," explained Highland Park Senior Minister Paul Rasmussen. "We are going to continue to uphold the traditional definition of marriage in our worship venues."
Home Opinion Hope for Elon Musk and other cultural Christians

As the influence of Christianity on the West reaches historic lows, a growing list of atheists and agnostics, some of whom have argued that Christianity is bad for the world, are backpedaling. Apparently, as a post-Christian world takes shape, they are rethinking their critiques of religion and its impact on society.

The most recent to express regrets is Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk. Long described as atheist or agnostic, Musk has toyed with odd beliefs like the so-called simulation hypothesis, which says that were all living inside a giant computer program. However, in a recent interview with Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson, Musk admitted admiration for Christianity:

While Im not a particularly religious person, I do believe that the teachings of Jesus are good and wise  I would say Im probably a cultural Christian. Theres tremendous wisdom in turning the other cheek. 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

He went on to say that Christian beliefs,

result in the greatest happiness for humanity, considering not just the present, but all future humans  Im actually a big believer in the principles of Christianity. I think theyre very good.

His use of the term cultural Christian was not an accident. It came as he and Peterson discussed arch-atheist Richard Dawkins recent confession that he, too, considers himself a cultural Christian. Dawkins even admitted that he enjoys Christmas carols and cathedrals, and thinks Christianity, in contrast to Islam, makes for a fundamentally decent civilization.

A few days ago, Musk went even further when he agreed with rapper and social media influencer Zuby, who wrote that it was foolish and prideful to remove the foundation of Christian religion and expect the building of Western civilization to stand. I think youre probably right, replied Musk.

Add in names like Tom Holland, the popular historian who wrote Dominion, and politician and writer Ayaan Hirsi Ali, who recently converted to Christianity, and there is now a rather striking lineup of current, former, and (perhaps) wavering unbelievers now praising belief.

At least part of this secular buyers remorse is the rise of woke ideology, which bodes ill for a post-Christian society. Sometime in the late 2010s, the so-called new atheism, a movement that purported to be all about reason and science, was swallowed up by progressive identity politics. Steadily, science and reason were replaced by moralizing witch-hunts, to the point that atheists like Dawkins now find themselves pushing back against pseudoscience on sex and gender.

Also, there is a growing realization, Hollands books are a good example, that Western ideas of human rights, political equality, and science and art are products of Christian theology. They do not occur in most civilizations, and there is no reason to expect that they will endure in the West if Christianity fades.

Its good that Musk, Peterson, Dawkins, Holland, and others are recognizing the debt owed to the religion of Jesus. Better to live alongside unbelievers who praise the faith than those who call it a dangerous delusion. However, we ought not delude ourselves. Christian influence in the modern world is the result of a lot of people who, for hundreds of years, really believed in Jesus.

You must make your choice, wrote C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity:

Either this man was, and is, the Son of God: or else a madman or something worse. You can shut Him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come with any patronising nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.

Cultural Christianity recognizes that the blessings of a Christian worldview do extend beyond the community of actual believers. That view of reality has blessed so many precisely because it is true. We should pray for those who seem to be softening toward that Truth to recognize Christ as such.

Within days of claiming the cultural Christian title, Musk said in response to the Opening Ceremony mess, Unless there is more bravery to stand up for what is fair and right, Christianity will perish. Hes right about needing more bravery, but what he missed is the good news, both for him and the rest of the world, that Christianity will certainly not perish. This or that Church may falter, and Christianity may lose its influence here or there. Christs Church and the truth about the world it proclaims will never fall, because it is true that Christ is risen and has overcome the world.

Originally published at BreakPoint.
Home Opinion I'm a Muslim. I find Olympics' Last Supper scene insulting too

Perhaps, banning the hijab, the traditional Islamic headscarf, wasnt enough for the French authorities. They had to attack Christians now in one of the most egregious displays of religious mockery.



Despite the apology from the Olympic organizers, the offense was already committed. Such an action should be considered as an assault on the sanctity of Christianity. Since the Bible has been translated into about 700 languages, the Last Supper is one of the most known Bible stories worldwide. The Olympic organizers were conscious of their actions.



And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me (Mark 14:18-26).



France has betrayed Jesus and crossed the boundary to not only offend Christians but also the Abrahamic religions in general.

France has taken its secularism system to the extreme level with its implementation of a law banning any form of religion in the public sector. In 2004, the French national assembly voted to ban Muslim hijab, Jewish skullcaps, kippah, and Christian cross to be worn in public schools. Frances claim to implement such laws is to protect French secularism. In 2023, France Education Minister Gabriel Attal banned the Abaya, which is a long loose dress some Muslim women wear to conceal the bodys shape in schools.

When you walk into a classroom, you shouldnt be able to identify the pupils religion just by looking at them, Attal said.



Frances opposition to religion can be traced back to the French Revolution in 1789. By 1794 all the churches were closed and religious worship was banned. The majority of France was Catholic and the Catholic Church had an immense role in the country before the revolution.

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However, regardless of the pros and cons of both the Catholic Church and the French Revolution in the 18th century, France today is waging a moderate war through secularism against religion. It is ironic that France is banning religious clothes and crosses to block people from identifying individuals' religion, but allows posing as a drag queen and assaulting a sacred religious scene.

Such a depiction only causes resentment for people of faith and creates a gap between Frances secularism and those who are adhering to religious beliefs.
Authorities in Indonesia foil plan to bomb churches

Authorities in Indonesia last week 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. as he was on his way 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.

"H.O.K. is a supporter of ISIS or Dawlah Islamiyah," Aswin told reporters on Thursday (Aug. 1) in Jakarta.

Aswin said H.O.K had become a member online of Philippines-based Dawlah Islamiyah, said to be affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS), and that he and 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 on July 31, and police detained several other people 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 suspect's 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 percent of Indonesia's population, while 11.43 percent identify as Christian, with the evangelical population estimated at 3.23 percent, according to the Joshua Project.

Indonesia ranked 42nd on Christian support organization Open Doors' 2024 World Watch List of the 50 countries where it is 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.

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Church leaders call for end to disorder

Church leaders from across different denominations and traditions have issued a joint statement calling on churches and communities to work together to end racism, division and disorder after days of rioting.

The statement was released by the Presidents of Churches Together in England, who include the Archbishop of Canterbury and the head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales.

It follows more than a week of violent unrest across England and Northern Ireland fuelled by far-Right anger over immigration and triggered by the deaths of three young girls in a knife attack in Southport last week.

In their statement, the Presidents of Churches Together in England "acknowledge deep and troubling anxiety about immigration" but say that the level of disorder has been "unacceptable".

"Regrettably, we have witnessed violent, racist attacks and intimidation on our streets. Mosques have been attacked, hotels housing people seeking asylum set on fire and individuals set upon simply because of the colour of their skin. Racism has no place on our streets or in society and should not be stirred up in communities or online," they said.

"The police have faced unacceptable levels of violent disorder and rioting in their quest to keep the peace on the streets."

They expressed their gratitude for members of the emergency services "who put themselves in danger to protect the public" and for members of the public who have "come together to help with the clear up, demonstrating a determination to serve the good of all".

They praised the work of many local churches across the country working to support their communities and be places of "sanctuary".

The statement ends with a call to continue working together to bring an end to the violence.

"Let us all work together to put an end to this violent disorder, restore peace and heal our nation," they said.

The Presidents of Churches Together in England are the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster, Vincent Nichols, the Moderator of the Free Churches Group, Rev Canon Helen Cameron, the head of the Lutheran Church in Great Britain, Bishop Paulina Hawiczka-Trotman, the National Overseer of the Church of God of Prophecy UK, Bishop Tedroy Powell, and the Archbishop of the Oecumenical Patriarchate (Diocese of Thyateira and Great Britain), Archbishop Nikitas.

Three people have already been sentenced over the riots, with many more prosecutions expected.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has welcomed today's sentencings: "This is the swift action we're taking. If you provoke violent disorder on our streets or online, you will face the full force of the law."
Faith leaders express 'horror' at rioting

Faith leaders have written a joint letter condemning hatred and violence after more than a week of riots across parts of the UK.

In a joint letter to The Times, they express "horror" at the violence while praising people who have volunteered to clean up streets and repair the damage to their communities.

The faith leaders call the rioting a "stain on our national moral conscience" and speak of their commitment to a "constructive and compassionate" dialogue on immigration.

The letter was signed by the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Chief Imam and Director General of Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society, Imam Dr Sayed Razawi, and the Chairman of Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board, Imam Qari Asim.

"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," they write.

"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.

"Every British citizen has a right to be respected and a responsibility to respect others, so that together we can build a cohesive and harmonious society for all.

"As faith leaders, we salute the many people who have stepped forward to repair damage and restore their neighbourhoods. We pledge to work with government and all sections of society towards a constructive and compassionate dialogue on immigration and social cohesion."

The violence has affected many towns and cities across England as well as Belfast in Northern Ireland. The Welsh First Minister has said that Wales is not being complacent about the threat of violence spreading to there, while in Scotland, which has also so far remained peaceful, Scottish First Minister John Swinney has been meeting faith and community representatives this week.

Thousands of riot police are being deployed as the violence shows no signs of abating, with reports of over a hundred more far-Right demonstrations planned.
What makes Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper' a timeless masterpiece?

Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper', created between 1495 and 1498, remains one of the most profound and influential Christian-themed artworks in history. Commissioned by Duke Ludovico Sforza of Milan for the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, this fresco depicts the pivotal moment when Jesus announces that one of His disciples will betray Him, a revelation that sets the stage for His impending crucifixion.

This painting transcends mere artistic representation; it vividly captures the emotional and spiritual turmoil of the apostles, each figure rendered with remarkable psychological depth.

Imagine how groundbreaking it would have been when first viewed by Christian believers who had never before witnessed images of the people, places, or scenes described in the Bible. Such a vision of God would have been considered a blessing, and a painting like this had the power to illustrate the divine.

Leonardo's masterful use of perspective and composition not only draws viewers into the scene but also emphasises the gravity of the moment. The varied expressions and reactions of the apostles bring to life their shock and disbelief, showcasing Leonardo's unique ability to convey complex human emotions. Expressive, almost theatrical, body language is used to dramatise the moment on the canvas. It is almost as if too much is happening at once, and the eye is forced to digest small segments of detail and then piece these together into a fluid narrative.

Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrays Jesus, is positioned among the apostles but is distinctively set apart through da Vinci's composition. He is depicted reaching towards a dish, echoing Jesus's statement that the betrayer would share the dish with Him. Judas is also placed in shadow, contrasting with the more illuminated figures of the other apostles. This positioning and the darker hues used for Judas symbolise his inner turmoil and foreshadow his impending betrayal, highlighting his moral conflict and separation from the others.

The layers of meaning in 'The Last Supper' have intrigued scholars and theologians for centuries. While some interpretations suggest hidden messages or esoteric symbols, many of these theories remain speculative. The arrangement of the figures, their gestures, and the interplay of light and shadow may indeed offer deeper insights into da Vinci's religious and philosophical reflections. However, these interpretations often reflect a broader quest to understand Leonardo's spiritual and intellectual world rather than definitive answers.

Today, 'The Last Supper' is housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. Due to its fragile condition and the importance of preserving this masterpiece, public access is carefully controlled. Visitors must secure tickets in advance to view the painting, as the number of visitors is limited to protect the artwork from deterioration.

Monetarily valuing 'The Last Supper' is a daunting task; its significance extends far beyond financial worth. Its true value lies in its cultural and historical impact, which cannot be quantified. The fresco is celebrated not only for its artistic excellence but also for its enduring influence on art, culture, and religious reflection.

Whether 'The Last Supper' is Leonardo's greatest work is a matter of opinion. While many consider it his crowning achievement due to its innovative perspective and emotional depth, other masterpieces, such as the 'Mona Lisa', also vie for this title. This diversity in Leonardo's output reflects his extraordinary artistic range, easily moving between secular, religious, and even scientific expressions.

Leonardo da Vinci's religious views were complex, intertwining with his broader intellectual pursuits. His engagement with Christian themes was significant, yet his work often transcended traditional interpretations, blending spiritual inquiry with philosophical exploration. This nuanced approach imbues his art with a timeless quality, offering both inspiration and reflection to audiences across generations.

Rightfully, 'The Last Supper' is considered a masterpiece that endures as a study of the human condition and of Christianity itself, inviting viewers to ponder the depths of faith, betrayal, and the necessity of divine sacrifice.
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Maharashtras former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) President, Uddhav Thackeray Maharashtras former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) President, Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to take immediate measures to protect Hindus in violence-ravaged Bangladesh. Speaking to media-persons in the national Capital, Uddhav Thackeray  flanked by MP Sanjay Raut and MLA Aditya Thackeray  said that the Indian government has given refuge to the former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Wazed, currently in New Delhi.



Accordingly, it is also Indias responsibility to ensure the safety of all the Hindus who may be targeted in the neighbouring country, rocked by political strife since the past three days after the Bangladesh ex-PM Wazed was forced to flee from Dhaka on August 5.



The Bangladesh situation is akin to the problems in Kashmir and Manipur. If Modi and Shah cannot go to Manipur, show courage and at least go to Bangladesh now to ensure the well-being of our Hindus there, and stop the violence in that country, said Thackeray.



The SS(UBT) chief said that violent mass uprising in Bangladesh should serve as a lesson to all rulers that the peoples power is supreme in a democracy, and the world has witnessed upheavals like this in Israel and Sri Lanka in the recent past.



The common masses have a limit of tolerance to their sufferings Then they will deliver their verdict It happened in Bangladesh. Such things can happen anywhere, anytime Hence, the people in power must take serious note of this and not consider themselves as above god, said Thackeray.



To a query on the simmering reservations issue in Maharashtra, Thackeray reiterated that action on such sensitive matters should be taken in time and must be done by Parliament itself.



He even drew parallels to the scenario in Bangladesh  rocked by a quota row - with the farmers protests in India and how the protestors were labelled as anti-nationals and terrorists.



Thackeray said that late PM Indira Gandhi had secured Independence for Bangladesh from the (undivided) Pakistan in 1971, so now its also the duty of PM Modi to safeguard the interests of our Hindus there in the current milieu.



At present on a three-day tour to New Delhi, the SS (UBT) chief said that this was his first visit to the national Capital after the Lok Sabha elections to meet the INDIA bloc leaders.



There has been no INDIA bloc meeting post-LS polls, so I have come to meet all their leaders who are here for the Parliament session. We are in regular contact with each other on telephone and the Maha Vikas Aghadi leaders also meet frequently in Mumbai, said Thackeray.




Student noodles from Lunette in the Ferry Building in San Francisco. Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle A patron mixes the mee kola at Lunette in S.F. Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle

Youll come to know the subtleties of black pepper at Lunette, a casual new Cambodian restaurant thats the latest addition to San Franciscos Ferry Building. Usually dosed in pinches, chef Nite Yun seems to measure the spice by the handful. You might encounter pepper caked onto wok-kissed noodles, dancing on cubes of beef and positively vibrating in a potent bone broth. The sensation isnt a pain-inducing burn but a sensory warmth that takes hold of you, lingering pleasantly in your torso and skull.

Before opening Lunette, Yun garnered national attention for her Oakland restaurant Nyum Bai, which she closed two years ago due to burnout and fatigue with cooking Khmay cuisine. But after a two-year break, she rediscovered her love of Cambodian street food  Lunettes biggest influence. To me, Yuns new restaurant, which opened in May, feels like a spiritual sequel; a more mature restaurant, even.

I feel like Im an adult now that I moved to the Ferry Building, Yun told me with a laugh.

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Chef Nite Yun at her new restaurant, Lunette, in the Ferry Building. Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle

Lunette has a leading role on one of San Franciscos biggest culinary stages. Since reopening as a food-focused hub in 2003, the Ferry Building has been a dynamic, one-of-a-kind nexus for dining, one where you might examine the intricacies of Jamaican and Colombian turnovers; where French crepes share space with rolled Palestinian flatbreads; not to mention where many of the Bay Areas top restaurants procure ingredients. Now, with the addition of Lunette, the city gains a much-needed Cambodian restaurant, an incredibly underrepresented cuisine, not just in San Francisco but the wider Bay Area.

The atmosphere at Lunette is casual, a colorful hand-painted mural mimics vibrant Khmer woven mats and blue-and-white awnings that bring a sense of whimsy, while red pendant lighting calls to mind the stylish, melancholic aesthetic of the movie In the Mood For Love. Wrapped around the open kitchen is an L-shaped bar, the premier spot to see the wok-flame pyrotechnics. Where Nyum Bai was a full-service restaurant, Lunette is counter-service and intimate, with a focus on quick, one-plate lunches. The menu  sectioned into noodles, rice and appetizers  brings back some favorites from the Oakland restaurant, but the majority are new additions. Eventually, Yun wants to introduce more region-specific noodle dishes.

Theres this idea that Cambodian food is spicy, like using chile heat, as in Thai food, Yun told me. I dont think thats accurate at all. Instead, Yun highlights the remarkable pepperiness of the cuisine, using a special crop of pepper known for its deeply aromatic and herbal qualities that only grows in Cambodias Kampot region. I mean it in the best way possible when I say that some dishes are so saturated in the spice that it feels like someone pranked the kitchen by loosening the shaker tops, unleashing all its contents onto the dish.

The KFC (Khmer Fried Chicken) from Lunette in the Ferry Building. Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle

The peppery flavor appears in subtle ways, rounding out the taste of garlicky greens ($12), full of wok hei smokiness, and adding depth to the soulful noodle soup known as Kuy Teav Phnom Penh ($21), which has an otherwise clean-tasting broth. The student noodles ($21), toasty rice noodles (shapes vary from wide and flat to rolled) named for their appeal to late-night youths, had so much pepper that parts of the dish looked to be overcome by TV static. For maximum pepperiness, try the shaking beef ($21), tender steak morsels in a sweet soy sauce, extensively dotted with the dried berry; it comes with a side sauce made of lime, salt, garlic and even more pepper, which tends to sink to the bottom, so give it a shake before using.

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Comparatively, the yellow curry ($21), with softened potato, was less forceful in its flavor mellowed out with coconut sweetness. Here, Cambodian staple ingredient kroeung, a paste made from turmeric, lemongrass and galangal, provides the basis of the dish. A safe choice for the vegan and gluten-free crowds, the dish omits the prahok (fermented fish paste), relying primarily on homemade kroeung to create flavorful poise.

The first time I had the fried chicken ($16), which reaches for rice flour over wheat, to the delight of the gluten-free audience, I wasnt crazy about it. The second time around, its crunch was more pronounced, acting like an improved-upon crouton, as an addition to the cabbage salad ($16/+$5 with fried chicken).

Heat is elective at Lunette. Two sauces are on offer: the bright red sambal is moderately hot and vinegary, while the opaque-brown tuk cha-lounh is mild, chunky, smoky and a bit sweet, featuring smoked peppers, palm sugar and toasted rice.

Lunettes dining room, located in San Franciscos Ferry Building. Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle

The 2-month-old restaurant still feels like its unfurling. Yun is working to include more specials and adjusting to the higher foot traffic; Nyum Bai had no shortage of patrons, but the Ferry Building is a different kind of busy. However, in its current state, I see strong bones and ample potential.

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Yuns latest effort seems to be in conversation with Nyum Bai, acknowledging its influence as a key part of history, while still leaving room to etch out its own identity. Shes taking everything she learned from her debut restaurant and applying it here, streamlining the menu and condensing her team. The goal remains the same: Yun continues to champion Cambodian cuisine, for both the audience shes already cultivated, and the one thats yet to know the soul-nourishing powers of her noodle soup.

Shes in the right place to amplify her message. Lunette reinforces the historic hubs position as the place to experience whats exciting about eating in San Francisco. Lunette helps usher in a new era of dining in the city.

This story was updated to accurately reflect the dining room decor.

Customers line up to place orders at Lunette in the Ferry Building. Lea Suzuki/San Francisco Chronicle

Lunette

1 Ferry Building, S.F. ferrybuildingmarketplace.com

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Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

Accessibility: Restaurant is on the first floor. Wheelchair accessible tables.

Noise level: Moderate, louder when the Ferry Building is full.

Meal for two, without drinks: $55-$75.

What to order: KTTP ($21), shaking beef ($21), student noodles ($21).

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Meat-free options: Stir-fried greens ($12), yellow curry ($21).

Transportation: Near several ferry terminals, and trolley and BART stations. Street parking and several nearby lots.
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The president was on the line for Tim Walz. It was an early morning in May 2020, a few days after a white police officer in Minneapolis murdered George Floyd, and a matter of minutes after Omar Jimenez, a CNN journalist, was arrested live on air while covering the resulting unrest. The president on the line was that of CNN, Jeff Zucker, and he was rightfully incredibly angry about the arrest, as Walz, the governor of Minnesota, would recall at a press conference later the same day. I take full responsibility, Walz said, before addressing the press as a whole: I failed you last night. A few days later, Walz visited the site of Floyds killing for the first time and apologized personally to Jimenez in an emotional interview. The state needed to improve its media protocols, Walz acknowledged. We have to create the space for you to tell the story.

Yesterday, the vice president was on the line for Walz, and the circumstances could hardly have been more different: Kamala Harris, now also the Democratic presidential nominee, was asking him to join her ticket. I want you to do this with me, Harris told Walz in a video of the call that her campaign posted online. Would you be my running mate? Walz responded that it would be his honor. The joy that youre bringing back to the country, the enthusiasm thats out thereitll be a privilege to take this with you across the country, he said.

The call capped a remarkably swiftand, in many respects, remarkably joyfulascent for Walz; when President Biden dropped out of the presidential race, just two and a half weeks ago, Walz was little known outside of Minnesota and did not figure among the early favorites to be Harriss running mate. His rise was fueled in no small part by the mediaor, at least, his deftly folksy appearances in it; indeed, he has enjoyed a breakout news cycle ever since he appeared on Morning Joe in the days after Biden dropped out and memorably referred to Donald Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance, as weird. As that line caught fire among Democrats, pundits assessed its potency. Ezra Klein, of the New York Times, described Walzs Morning Joe hit as the interview heard around the Democratic Party, adding that his initial reaction was, Oh, that really connects; Jay Caspian Kang wrote in The New Yorker that weird is a catchall insult that allows liberals to slap back at years of similar aspersions from the rightconnected to everything from trans rights to racial justice and abortion rightsand to normalize their personal politics through the imagined average voter, who, through this verbal sleight of hand, is now on their side. Meanwhile, online, memes circulated that depicted Walz as a charming Midwestern dad: Walz with his cat; Walz with his dog; Walz with a piglet at the Minnesota State Fair.

The difference between sophisticated political analysis and workaday memesmithing shouldnt mask the fact that, in this case, a lot of the same people were doing both. (Who is normal and who is weird? Kang asked, in his astute piece. When it comes to those of us in the American media, its obvious that we are all weird and way too online.) Indeed, in traditional and new media precincts alike, journalists and commentators hitched Walz to another buzzwordvibesoften while declaring that his are good, or at least meet this moment. In a year when vibes have been everything in politicson the economy, on the campaign trailthat is exactly what Kamala Harris has gone for, the BBC wrote yesterday; the New York Times concurred that Walz, perhaps more than any other contender on Harriss shortlist, was the vibes pick for a vibes election. The word came up repeatedly on CNN yesterday, too. Kamala Harris bets on vibes, Abby Phillip said. Dana Bash declared vibes and weird to be two words of the summer.

Weber might have something to say about this; Brian Wilson surely would. While the word vibes feels omnipresent at the moment, the idea behind itloosely, the atmospherics around a person or thing, and how people tend to feel about themis not at all new. (CNNs Jamie Gangel said of Walz yesterday that youd like to have a beer with him, a time-honored political vibe check.) Vibes have long been an organizing principle for political media coverage, too, albeit under different labels, like optics. Still, the notion does seem to be enjoying a media moment, as I wrote earlier this year, amid the decidedly vibes-dominated reactionbad, this timeto the Republican senator Katie Britts theatrically menacing State of the Union response.

Judging politicians on vibes is by no means illegitimate; sure, the term is subjective and imprecise, but so are lots of words journalists use as shorthand for phenomena that are observable and yet hard to concretely pin down. But letting vibes organize media coverage is an obviously perilous prospect. For starters, vibes, famously, can shift. Already, some journalists and pundits are unconvinced that the vibes of the Walz pick are as good as they seem, at least in an electoral senseincluding, ironically, Joe Scarborough, the eponymous host of the Walz-breakout vehicle Morning Joe. (And this is before we get into the right-wing mediasphere, where Walz is being portrayed as a dangerous socialist with, erm, ties to ISIS?) Kang, for his part, predicted that Walzs catchphrase might soon wear thin, arguing that if Trump starts attacking Harris on subjects like immigration and her identity, there could come a time when weird feels a bit small and juvenile, and will become a memento of a fun and energized period in the campaign.

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The serious point to all this, as far as the press is concerned, isnt that its our role to referee campaign energy levels, but that paying too much heed to (often fleeting) atmospherics is yet one more way that our coverage can come to feel reactive, short-termist, overexuberant. It can also contribute to a sense of amnesia. Walz may not have been well-known outside of Minnesota prior to the past few weeksbut he was a prominent character in the huge national news story that followed the murder of Floyd, a period whose prevailing mood was extremely different from that of this moment. Rewatching some of Walzs pained interviews and pressers from back then can feel like viewing footage from a different planet. But it very much was, and is, ours. Many of the issues that surfaced during that moment are still issues now, even if they rarely seem to surface in todays frenzied political news cycle.

This speaks to another problem with vibes-organized coverage: that even if it can be useful in illuminating atmospherics, it can blunt needed factual scrutiny of political figures rhetoric and records. (It was in this context that I criticized some of the coverage of Britts State of the Union response earlier this year.) We are, surely, about to see a lot of detailed coverage of Walzs record from reporters who might still be catching up to his sudden explosion in national profile. Already, those who have had a front-row seat to his rise in Minnesota are contributing such coverage. I think, actually, Governor Walz is good at politics and bad at policy. He isnt a great executer, Blois Olson, the publisher of a political tipsheet in Minnesota, said on MSNBC last night. He has been seen as not executive when the state needed an executive.

An important part of Walzs back story, of course, is in the area of press freedom. In 2020, after Jimenez was arrested on air, he said all the right things and pledged concrete improvements. And yet, the following year, Minnesota law enforcement repeatedly intimidated and even assaulted journalists covering another period of unrest, this time following the police shooting of Daunte Wright, a young Black man, during a traffic stop in a Minneapolis suburb; a Black photographer on assignment for the Times said that officers refused to accept his press credentials as real until a colleague vouched for him, while an Asian American producer for CNN was arrested and asked if she spoke English. At one point, a court issued a restraining order to protect journalists, and yet the threats reportedly continued. At a press conference, Walz said that he found the situation distressing, and once again pledged that the state would do better. We have more work to do, he said. That week, he acknowledged, we have failed.



Other notable stories:

CJRs Kevin Lind spoke with seven journalists about their experiences covering Kamala Harriss political rise in California. She is not impolite, she is not impenetrable, but she is guarded, Joe Eskenazi, the managing editor of Mission Local in San Francisco, said. And as much as her prosecutorial past is something that comes up, its also how she handles the media. Bloombergs Erika D. Smith said that Harris is 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. Dan Morain, Harriss biographer, added, she is just not a press hound.

For Verite News, a nonprofit newsroom in New Orleans, Richard A. Webster reports on a new Louisiana law barring anyone, including journalists, from standing within twenty-five feet of a law enforcement officer who has ordered them to stay back. Police buffer laws, as they are commonly known, are relatively new; Louisiana is the fourth state to enact one, Webster writes. Supporters of the law say that it is necessary to protect police and will not prevent journalists from documenting their activitiesbut critics have charged that it will make it much harder to hold officers to account. Recently, a coalition of media companies sued state officials, alleging that the law violates the First Amendment.

Yesterday, police in New York arrested Samuel Seligson, an independent videographer, on hate-crime charges linked to vandalism by pro-Palestinian protesters at the homes of leaders of the Brooklyn Museum earlier this yearan action that Seligson says he was covering as a journalist. While the complaint described Seligson as a participant in the crime, a law enforcement official said he was not directly involved in the spray-painting or property damage, the APs Jake Offenhartz reports. Seligsons attorney said that his conduct was protected, and described the hate-crime charges as appalling overreach.

And the Trans Journalists Association weighed in on recent media coverage of Imane Khelif, an Algerian Olympic boxer who has been wrongly identified as transgender since an opponent withdrew from a bout with her last week, citing the strength of her punches. The episode opens up larger questions about the unstated assumptions that underlie coverage of gender and sports, the TJA writes. Why are some genetic advantages considered fair, and some not? And how and when should the playing field be leveled?

ICYMI: California journalists on covering Kamala Harris

Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, The New Yorker, and The Atlantic, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.
Elon Musks X Corp. filed a lawsuit accusing an industry group of violating antitrust laws for an advertising boycott that cost the social media company billions of dollars.

The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in federal court in Texas, claims the Global Alliance for Responsible Media coordinated the boycott by advertisers in 2022 under the guise of concern about whether X, formerly known as Twitter, would adhere to certain brand safety standards for content on the platform after Musk acquired it for $44 billion.

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, X Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino said in a post on the platform. This behavior is a stain on a great industry, and cannot be allowed to continue.

Outcry over unchecked antisemitic content and commentary on X  some of it endorsed by Musk  sparked many big advertisers including Apple Inc. and Walt Disney Co. to pull adds from the platform. And Musk has opposed government efforts to control toxic posts on social media.

The lawsuit by X comes as House Republicans and conservative media outlets have ramped up scrutiny of GARM, which counts among its more than 100 members advertisers including Procter & Gamble Co. and Unilever Plc.

GOP lawmakers have accused the group of violating antitrust laws, and the lawsuit cites a July report from the House Judiciary Committee accusing GARM of depriving conservative media outlets of ad revenue from its members.

GARM didnt immediately return a request for comment.

In its 2022 annual report, the industry group said it had helped establish common definitions, metrics and tools to aid brands and their advertising partners in ensuring their ads dont appear alongside content they may find problematic.

In its lawsuit, X claimed the groups actions represent a naked restraint of trade.

Collective action among competing advertisers to dictate brand safety standards to be applied by social media platforms shortcuts the competitive process and allows the collective views of a group of advertisers with market power to override the interest of consumers, X said in its complaint.

Musk, the worlds richest person, is a self-proclaimed champion of free speech on his social-media platform and has pursued other legal challenges connected to allegations of lax moderation of toxic posts, though with mixed success.

Rumble, a video sharing platform, said it would file a lawsuit of its own against GARM and the World Federation of Advertisers in Texas federal court that raises the same allegations as X.

The case is X v. World Federation of Advertisers, 7:24-cv-00114, US District Court, Northern District of Texas (Wichita Falls).

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
GSK Plc convinced an Illinois jury that the former heartburn drug Zantac was not liable for a womans colorectal cancer in a second trial win for the British drugmaker.

It comes just over two months after jurors in Chicago also found that GSK and Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH werent liable for another womans illness.

The companys share price rose slightly in early London trading. GSK stock is up nearly 7% since the start of the year.

Related: GSK Settles Another Heartburn Drug Lawsuit in Illinois

GSK is one of several drugmakers facing lawsuits from people who argue the companies knew ranitidine  Zantacs active ingredient  turned into the potential carcinogen NDMA under certain conditions. In 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration asked companies to remove all ranitidine-based drugs from the US market.

The verdict in Illinois is consistent with the scientific consensus that there is no consistent or reliable evidence that ranitidine increases the risk of any cancer, GSK said in a statement Tuesday.

GSK is still facing thousands of cases in the US. A judge earlier this year said that GSK, Pfizer Inc. and others must face trials in a Delaware state court.

Related: Industry Groups Back Drugmakers Appeal in Zantac Cancer Lawsuits

GSK has already settled several cases, while not admitting liability.

The Zantac litigation has overshadowed progress GSK has made elsewhere, including with its vaccine for a common respiratory virus that outpaced sales of competitor Pfizers shot in the US.

Under Chief Executive Officer Emma Walmsley, GSK has worked to prioritize products in areas where it has existing strengths such a vaccines. Walmsley also demerged GSKs consumer health business, enabling the company to focus on innovative new medicines.

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Hundreds of thousands of homes were still without power across Northeast Ohio Tuesday night after a wicked late-afternoon storm passed through the region, delivering at least one wind gust of up to 86 miles per hour.

The National Weather Service issued several tornado warnings during the storm, with the first coming at 3:43 p.m. for southwestern Cuyahoga County and northeastern Lorain County. That warning expired at 4:30 p.m.

There were two other tornado warnings that included parts of Cuyahoga County and then more warnings that extended east of Cuyahoga County as the strom moved along, National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Mitchell said.

Its to be determined if a tornado actually touched down in the area, Mitchell said, adding that a survey team or two will go out Wednesday to assess damage.

Wind monitors recorded a wind gust of 86 miles per hour just east of Burke Lakefront Airport during the storm, according to Mitchell, 74 mph at Fairport Harbor and 67 mph in Cleveland near Edgewater Park.

Mitchell said it appears the heaviest rain fell east of Cleveand, with rain gauges recording 2.45 inches in Mentor and 2.53 inches just east of Perry. A gauge in Ashtabula County measured 3.28 inches.

The wind and rain did a number on trees and power lines. The terminal at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport experienced sporadic power outages over about a 90-minute period, according to airport pokeswoman Michele Dynia. Power was back on for good by around 6 p.m., she said.

There was a time while the storm was happening where there was debris all over the airfield because of the winds, Dynia said, and that caused the airport to close its runways. That only lasted for about 20 to 30 minutes during the peak of the storm when the airlines had delayed their operations anyway, she said.

Anything that comes on the airfield has to be removed, she said, because it could potentially cause damage to an aircraft.

By about 6 p.m., the airport was functioning properly, she said, and the airlines were catching up with their delays.

Storm damage in Parma Heights on Tuesday, Aug. 6.Sean McDonnell, cleveland.com

The storm also resulted in a fallen tree blocking the southbound lanes of Interstate 77 just north of Harvard Avenue, Matt Bruning, spokesman for the Ohio Department of Transportation, said.

He said traffic was still able to use the shoulder to get by, but it took until about 6:30 p.m. for ODOT to remove the tree and clear the lanes.

At 7:34 p.m., about 423,000 FirstEnergy customers were without power, including about 224,000 in Cuyahoga County, according to wkyc.com. By 8:48 p.m., the total number of customer outages was down to just below 390,000, according to FirstEnergy.
Ocean Malasada Co. is now serving hot, filled doughnuts at the S.F. Ferry Building. Elena Kadvany/The Chronicle

Fans of sugary sweets and Japanese bites have new San Francisco spots to check out.

Desserts are out in full force this summer with a couple of surprise openings and the return of a popular scoop shop. Meanwhile, fans of sushi and soba noodles have new spots to try. There are also new arrivals specializing in pizza, French cuisine and Salvadoran food.

Click here for a list of notable San Francisco restaurants that opened in June.

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Hot doughnuts make awaited arrival

A new vendor specializing in malasadas, a stuffed doughnut style popular in Hawaii, is now open at the S.F. Ferry Building. Ocean Malasada Co. announced on Instagram its kiosk location is now open, serving hot treats to-order filled with tropical flavors like guava, pineapple and haupia, a Hawaiian coconut pudding.

1 Ferry Building, Suite K1, San Francisco. instagram.com/oceanmalasadaco

Pizza shops expansion speeds on

The latest San Francisco location from the almost ubiquitous Joyride Pizza is now baking square pies on the Embarcadero, Eater SF reports. The menu features the Detroit-style pies, which have powered a fast expansion, with topping combinations that range from the meatza, with pepperoni, Italian sausage and bacon, to the fig and blue cheese pizza and a Greek-style pie with artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives and crumbled feta. Other non-pizza items include tater tots and salads, plus breakfast options.

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Pier 1, The Embarcadero, San Francisco. joyridepizza.com

Chef-owner Bruno Chemel outside his latest restaurant, Le Parc Bistrobar, which opened in July. Constanza Hevia H./Special to The Chronicle

Lauded French chef unveils his latest

Le Parc Bistrobar is Union Squares newest French restaurant. Chef-owner Bruno Chemel, whose previous restaurant, Baume, held Michelin-star status for over a decade, opened his latest project in July. The restaurant launched with a menu that features a more modern look on classic bistro fare, such as chicken legs in white bean ragout and oxtails braised in red wine with carrots. The handsome, two-story restaurant features extensive wine and classic cocktail lists.

185 Sutter St., San Francisco. leparcbistrobar.com

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Dessert shop adds second location

Sweet Glory, a Tenderloin dessert shop known for its 20-layer crepe cakes, opened a new location in the Inner Sunset, as reported by users on X. The roomy new spot has a display case with several variations of its crepe cakes, which you can enjoy on a patio.

1336 Ninth Ave., San Francisco. sweetglorysf.com

Sobakatsu, San Franciscos first and only fresh soba maker, opened in July. The shop offers nutty buckwheat noodles served warm in broth or cold with a dipping sauce. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

Rare noodle specialist opens

San Francisco welcomed its very own restaurant specializing in soba, a Japanese noodle made with buckwheat. Now serving diners in Japantown, Sobakatsu offers earthy, nutty noodles served cold on a tray with dipping sauce and tempura vegetables, or in a steaming bowl of hot broth. Soba Ichi in Oakland and Leichi in Santa Clara are the only two other Bay Area restaurants dedicated to making this style of noodle from scratch.

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1700 Laguna St., San Francisco.

The vegan pupusas plate at Estrellitas Snacks in 2019. The Salvadoran food restaurant is back with its own brick-and-mortar location in San Francisco. Paul Kuroda/Special to The Chronicle

Salvadoran food favorite finds a home

San Francisco pupusa favorite Estrellitas Snacks opened its first brick-and-mortar spot in July. Diners can find hand-pressed pupusas with more than a dozen available fillings that include beans, cheese, spinach, pork and zucchini, among others. Other dishes like fried yucca and tamales will remain on the menu, along with new dishes like chilaquiles for breakfast and Oaxacan tlayudas, a nod to her mothers history of migration. Estrellitas Snacks was among the vendors at the now-shuttered La Cocina Municipal Market.

483 Ellis St., San Francisco. estrellitassf.com

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Prized scoop shop is back

One of the Bay Areas best ice cream shops resurfaced at a new San Francisco location. Marco Polo Italian Ice Cream returned July 19 with its Asian-inspired ice cream flavors that include black sesame and durian, along with more traditional flavors like pistachio and chocolate. Marco Polos original location on Taraval, which will soon become a new Golden Boy Pizza location, first closed in October in preparation for this move.

3886 Noriega St., San Francisco. facebook.com/gelatoMP

Sake don at Aji Kiji, with fresh and torched salmon ($24). Caleb Pershan/The Chronicle

Affordable sushi surfaces downtown

Find sushi cuts that wont break the bank at Aji Kiji, a minimal, wood-paneled restaurant in the Fillmore district. The restaurant, owned by the people behind Korean restaurant Daeho and chef Jin Lim of San Franciscos buzzy Bansang, offers boxes of glistening assorted nigiri pieces for $19. On the highest end of the bill is a 10-piece and roll set for $54. The restaurant uses a variety of fish from Japan, Korea, Mexico and Spain. Aji Kiji opened inside the former Avery space, as first reported by Tablehopper.

1552 Fillmore St., San Francisco. instagram.com/ajikiji

SoMa gets a new cantina

The family behind the venerable Mexican restaurant San Jalisco in the Mission have a new venture. Yossies Cantina is now open with no-frills drinks in SoMa, Tablehopper reports. Find cantina staples like Jack and Cokes, margaritas and sangria along with happy hour specials.

398 Seventh St., San Francisco. instagram.com/yossiescantina/

Temple to Mediterranean cuisine opens in Union Square

The owner of the Mission Districts Gyros & Tzatziki has a new place in downtown San Francisco. Tablehopper reports the Parthenon, a new wine bar and Mediterranean restaurant, opened in July inside the 40-seat former Hogwash space. The new restaurant is cooking dishes from across the Mediterranean, including seafood pastas, sirloin souvlaki and a pork chop with fig sauce.
Contra Costa County health officials are urging residents to consider wearing face masks indoors as a summer COVID-19 wave persists in the Bay Area. Officials in San Francisco offered similar advice on July 26 amid rising cases. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle 2020

Health officials in Contra Costa County are recommending the use of face masks in crowded indoor settings as a summer wave of COVID-19 cases sweeps through the Bay Area.

On Tuesday, county health authorities renewed their advice for residents, especially those at high risk of severe illness, to use masks as a protective measure.

This recommendation aligns with state guidelines and San Franciscos recent advisory that masks remain an effective tool to limit the coronavirus spread.

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More on the coronavirus: Relentless new COVID variants extend Californias summer wave

Dr. Ori Tzvieli, the Contra Costa County health officer, pointed to the emergence of highly transmissible coronavirus variants, referred to as FLiRT, which have led to a notable increase in infections and emergency room visits throughout the summer.

Since early May, coronavirus levels in the countys wastewater have more than quadrupled, though they have recently leveled off near their plateau.

Face masks are an effective tool to reduce the spread of the virus, particularly for those who are at risk for serious illness when there is evidence of elevated COVID-19 activity in the community, Tzvieli said. This is one of those times. Our health system is not seriously impacted by COVID currently, and our goal is to keep it that way.

Several factors contribute to summer COVID-19 waves.

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By midsummer to late summer, immunity from previous vaccinations or infections typically diminishes. This, combined with the emergence of new variants, increases the likelihood of infection.

Human behavior also plays a crucial role; as temperatures rise, people spend more time in air-conditioned indoor spaces, where the virus spreads more easily.

Summer travel additionally contributes to coronavirus transmission. Mild symptoms often mistaken for jet lag, such as tiredness, headache or sore throat, can actually be due to an infection. Without testing, travelers may inadvertently spread the virus.

However, coronavirus rates in the Bay Area are so high that people are struggling to find tests at pharmacy chains such as CVS and Walgreens. Those looking to get vaccinated ahead of the updated fall shots are also facing difficulties.

Contra Costa County health officer Dr. Ori Tzvieli, shown in 2021, cited the emergence of highly transmissible coronavirus variants this summer as a reason to wear face masks in indoor settings. Brittany Hosea-Small/Special to The Chronicle

The FLiRT variants, so named due to the location of their spike protein mutations, are about 20% more transmissible than the JN.1 strain responsible for the winter surge. These variants have spread much faster than earlier versions of the virus.

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Officials recommend high-quality, well-fitted masks such as the N95, KN95 and KN94 varieties for optimal protection against respiratory viruses, including the coronavirus.

Contra Costa Health added that with the school year starting this month, it is encouraging students and faculty, especially those at higher risk of severe infection, to wear masks in classrooms. Schools should also provide masks to anyone who requests them, whenever possible.

They clarified that this is a reminder, not a health order, to utilize available tools to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

The only existing COVID-related health mandate in the Bay Area requires that health care workers wear masks from Nov. 1-April 30, annually, a directive aimed at safeguarding patients from COVID-19, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

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Department of Public Works workers remove debris from an homeless encampment during a sweep along 13th Street in the Mission District of San Francisco on Nov. 3, 2023. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle

So the mayor is now governing by gimmick, is she? (One week after Mayor Breed escalated encampment sweeps, S.F. police citations are on the rise, San Francisco, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 6) Gone are the careful studies and policies of yesteryear.

Now, London Breed has decided that rousting homeless people off the street will rescue her re-election campaign, despite the fact that we know this doesnt work. But the Mayor doesnt really care about that. Even ineffectuality beats whatever replaced it. Is shambilism a word?

There could have been a policy on homelessness that had some chance of working. That policy would have told people living in tents that they would remain unmolested as long as they did not accumulate objects around their tents. And the collection of items is astonishing. A person in a tent is bearable. An encampment is not.

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The second issue is that the homeless need homes. They dont need cots. They dont need a bus ticket. If you look around the city, you will find many vacant lots, many of them vacant for years. Part of the problem is the permitting and inspection process.

Free us from this onerous bureaucracy, Mayor. Build homes. House the homeless.

It can be done as Salt Lake City and Houston have done. Mayoral candidates take note.

John Forsayeth, San Francisco

GOP daddy issues

Regarding (Walz gives Harris campaign a bump  at least for now), Letters to the Editor, A12, Aug. 6). Its author writes that hes waiting for the bump that Kamala gets from Tim Walz to fade.

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The indictment is that progressive liberals cant win. Im pretty sure that is just a wishful thought.

As a family therapist, what I like about Tim is that hes clear that the real economy is the one in which families raise children who learn values that help them to lead successful lives. Thats what we need to invest in. That includes safe communities with affordable housing and transportation, and, most importantly, well funded childcare and excellent schools. And, of course, health care for all.

These are the progressive ideals that the Harris/Walz administration would actually tax the wealthy to make happen. The idea is that we are all in this together.

Republican family policy has for too long been centered in the culture war. Its the hill theyve chosen to die on. J.D. Vance has no clue about raising kids. My take on him is that his childhood trauma, like Donald Trumps, is being played out on the grand stage of political oppression. I gotta say, they both have obvious Daddy issues. As do we all.

Thats why Tim Walz is such an obvious pick. Hes a great dad. He knows how to lead and, yes, hes not weird.

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Roger Lake, San Francisco

Bamboo utensils

Regarding (Be Wary of using compostables, Open Forum, Opinion, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 5), Professor Judith Enck cautions us that many products claiming to be compostable are actually not compostable and are made of fossil fuels. She says the solution is reusable plastic for implements. Our country already has these, which are thrown into the garbage daily.

An obvious solution: disposable bamboo or wooden eating utensils. We were given wooden utensils without asking during a recent trip to Scandinavia and we brought them home to use multiple times. When they wear out we can compost them in our green bin.

Nancy Lemon, Berkeley

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Thank you, Joe

Regarding (Kamala Harris, Tim Walz rally draws 14,000 in Philadelphia, Election 2024, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 6), the rally was impressive. However, their speeches made me sad because of their omission. Neither Kamala Harris nor Tim Walz thanked Joe Biden for launching them.

The present president deserves to be acknowledged and praised.

Diana DiPietro, Vancouver, Wash.

Thank you, Bruce

Regarding (What did NBC ignore? Olympic surfing competition that was among the best ever, Sports, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 2), Bruce Jenkins perfectly captured the joy and exhilaration of the Olympic surfing competition in his article accompanying the floating surfer picture.

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I was transported by his references to elevator-shaft drops and wicked consequence that had boat-perched spectators stricken with anxiety.

Kudos for fine writing that appeals to even a non-sports fan like me!

Barbara Vanden Borre, Berkeley

Thank you, Kevin

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

Thank you, Kevin Fisher-Paulson, for making Wednesday mornings just a bit better.

Wishing you healing.
Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz arrive for a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Joe Lamberti/Associated Press

Regarding (Kamala Harris selects Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her VP running mate, Politics, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 6) Vice President Harris has chosen progressive liberal Tim Walz. Who knows, maybe Harris will look like a moderate standing next to him (I dont think so). Another bump in the euphoric momentum for the Harris campaign.

Bump is actually the correct term, and it may last a few weeks (may three or four). The problem with momentum is this, it cannot be maintained without a constant input of force. What do you do when youve run out of dazzle?

In the next few weeks something is going to happen to Harris momentum. It is going to be eroded and reduced by shear friction with entropy (the reality of who is on the ticket and what they stand for). What does Walz stand for? Thats simple  hes a progressive liberal who will go hog-wild if given the opportunity. But hes such a nice guy. Who cares?

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What does Harris stand for? Well, right now thats anyones guess. I have a sneaking suspicion, though, that Harris is secretly even more of a progressive liberal than Walz, but she wont be able to hide that forever, and thats when the Harris-Walz ticket will start flying on fumes.

Arthur Saginian, Santa Clarita

Happy warrior

Like former Vice President Hubert Humphrey of Minnesota, Gov. Tim Walz of the Gopher State also is known as a happy warrior. I dont know how Republicans are going to label Walz, but I do know this: It will be weird.

How could it be anything else?

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They want to outlaw all abortions, end electric car mandates and ban books in public libraries. For a party that professes to celebrate individual freedom, the GOP clearly relishes the opportunity to invade peoples privacy and attack their personal choices.

If Hubert Humphrey were alive today, I think he would agree with Tim Walz when he says, Thats weird.

Denny Freidenrich, Laguna Beach, Orange County

Weird double standard

Democrats have plunged suddenly and with gusto into the name-calling arena with the weird epithet. Many commentators immediately observed how risky this strategy might be, remembering Hillary Clintons 2016 deplorables comment.

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We need to realize that an unfair double standard seems to exist in the arena of name-calling, and that by a weird twist of political logic, this double standard has long and decidedly favored Trump.

If we choose to adopt this Trumpian tactic, we need to recognize we are making our candidates seem less distinguishable from him, and as little better than him.

We must realize that fighting fire with fire could, with even a slight wind change, lead to a bigger conflagration that well might consume the Harris/Walz tickets chances of winning come November.

Andrew Majeske, Davis

Full meaning of fascism

Regarding the comment by the writer from San Jose in response to (Why weird is working wonders for the Democrats, Soleil Ho, Opinion, July 31, 2024), the writer conveniently omits the remainder of the Merriam-Webster definition of fascism in questioning how Trumps goals fall under the definition of fascism.

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The full M-W definition is: a political philosophy, movement, or regime (such as that of the Fascisti) that exalts nation and often race above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition.

Given Trumps often-stated goal of being a dictator on Day 1, and using the Justice Department to go after his political opponents on his retribution tour, it seems pretty clear his behavior and goals fall within the definition of fascism.

If it walks like a duck  you know the rest of it.

Tony Rimac, Oakland

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Buses to where?

Regarding Breed orders S.F. homeless people be offered bus tickets out of town before shelter or housing (San Francisco, SFChronicle.com, Aug. 1): Mayor London Breed has once again shown astounding inability to understand that the homeless people in San Francisco are residents of the city.

These people dont have homes, but they live there, have a sense of community and need our help.

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

Offering them a bus ticket is ludicrous. Where could they go?

A lot of money has been spent on the homeless situation, but when acceptance of the homeless people and compassion unite, there will be better answers. A bus ticket is not a solution.
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Here are five key things investors need to know to start the trading day:

1. Rebound

Stocks partially recovered on Tuesday after seeing losses during the previous three trading days. The Dow Jones Industrial Average inched 0.76% higher, ending the session at 38,997.66. Seeing even greater percentage gains, the S&P 500 increased 1.04% to finish at 5,240.03, and the Nasdaq Composite moved 1.03% higher to finish at 16,366.85. Not only that, Japan's Nikkei 225 saw its best day since October 2008 with a gain of 10.2%. The move comes a day after the benchmark declined 12.4%, experiencing its worst session since Black Monday in 1987. Follow live market updates.

Uber has long faced opposition from taxi drivers. Now it wants to partner with the industry. Jakub Porzycki | Nurphoto | Getty Images

It was a winning second quarter for Uber . Topping Wall Street's estimates for the period, the company posted earnings of 47 cents per share on revenue of $10.7 billion. That's above the 31 cents per share on $10.57 billion in revenue expected by analysts polled by LSEG. In terms of monthly active platform consumers, or MAPCs, Uber reached 156 million for the period after its platform received 2.77 billion trips. That's higher than the same period a year ago, which saw 137 million MAPCs with 2.28 billion trips. What's more, the company's revenue and gross bookings in delivery for the second quarter rose 16%, while gross bookings in the mobility unit increased even more at 23%.

3. War of words

Airline passengers seek instructions from Delta employees to check in for their flight after airlines grounded flights due to a worldwide tech outage caused by an update to CrowdStrike's "Falcon Sensor" software which crashed Microsoft Windows systems, at Tampa International Airport in Tampa, Florida, U.S., July 19, 2024. Octavio Jones | Reuters

Microsoft , joining CrowdStrike , clapped back at Delta Air Lines. Mark Cheffo, who represents Microsoft, recently sent a letter to attorney David Boies, who represents Delta, saying that Microsoft had offered to help Delta for free after the global IT outage that led to thousands of flight cancellations. According to the letter, Microsoft employees told Delta they could help every day between July 19 and July 23, but the airline refused. Cheffo also took aim at Delta's slower recovery compared with its peers, saying it "apparently has not modernized its IT infrastructure, either for the benefit of its customers or for its pilots and flight attendants." The comments come after Delta said it plans to seek damages from Microsoft and CrowdStrike over potential damages caused by the outage. CrowdStrike has also rejected Delta's claims, with lawyer Michael Carlinsky saying Sunday that the company wasn't responsible for the flight cancellations.

4. Walz-ing in

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

Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday tapped Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate for November's election. "Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families," Harris wrote in a campaign message to supporters. "I know that he will bring that same principled leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president." Walz also confirmed his acceptance of the position in a social media post, saying he's "all in." Following the announcement, the two made their first public appearance together at a rally in Philadelphia. "I couldn't be prouder to be on this ticket," Walz said at the rally. "Thank you for bringing back the joy."

5. Taking it up a notch

The Disney+ website on a laptop in Brooklyn, New York, on July 18, 2022. Gabby Jones | Bloomberg | Getty Images
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump participates in a question-and-answer session at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Chicago, July 31, 2024.

An Arizona grand jury that indicted 18 allies of former President Donald Trump on criminal charges related to trying to overturn his 2020 election loss in the state was interested in indicting Trump as well, but was asked not to do so by the state attorney general's office, according to a new court filing.

Attorney General Kristin Mayes' office disclosed the grand jury's interest in charging Trump in a filing that disputed a claim by many of the defendants that the office was politically biased in prosecuting them in the so-called fake electors case.

Trump is mentioned, though not by name, as Unindicted Co-Conspirator 1 in the indictment filed in April against his former lawyer Rudy Giuliani, his White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, and the other defendants in Maricopa County Superior Court. Trump is the Republican nominee for president.

"Facts  not Defendants' declarations  matter," Mayes' office wrote in the filing Tuesday in that court. The filing was first reported by The New York Times.

"The State Grand Jury was told by the Attorney General's Office on multiple occasions that it had the discretion to indict no one," the office wrote.

"Far from being politically biased, the Attorney General's Office, despite the Grand Jury's interest in doing so, asked the Grand Jury to consider not indicting Donald Trump; Republican members and members-elect of the Arizona Legislature who had signed onto a document falsely purporting to be 'A Joint Resolution of the 54th Legislature, State of Arizona to the 116th Congress' on December 14, 2020; an attorney for the Arizona Republican Party; and others associated with Defendants."

The filing said that a prosecutor based the request not to indict Trump on a U.S. Justice Department policy against having federal prosecutors and state prosecutors separately charge the same people for the same alleged conduct.

Trump was charged last year in federal court in Washington, D.C., with crimes connected to his efforts to reverse his 2020 loss to President Joe Biden. He also was charged last year in state court in Atlanta with trying to overturn Biden's victory that year in Georgia.
Bangladesh's finance pioneer Muhammad Yunus (C) is escorted by French police personnel as he arrives at Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport, north of Paris on August 7, 2024, enroute to Bangladesh, where he is set to lead a caretaker government after mass protests ousted premier Sheikh Hasina.

Bangladesh's protest leaders said they expect members of an interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, to be finalized on Wednesday after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina quit and fled to India following a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising.

Bangladesh's president appointed Yunus, who was recommended by student leaders, as the head of the interim government late on Tuesday and said the remaining members need to be finalized soon to overcome the current crisis and pave way for elections.

The interim government will fill a power vacuum left after Bangladesh's arm chief announced Hasina's 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.

"It is critical that trust in government be restored quickly," Yunus, 84, told the Financial Times on Wednesday, saying he was not seeking an elected role or appointment beyond the interim period.

His spokesperson said he is expected to return to Dhaka on Thursday after a medical procedure in Paris.

"We need calm, we need a road map to new elections and we need to get to work to prepare for new leadership," Yunus told the newspaper.

"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."

Hasina's resignation had 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 nation of 170 million that has suffered economic distress in recent years.

Normalcy slowly began returning after Monday's 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.
Cargo ships loaded with cars and containers for export are departing at the port of Yantai in Yantai, China, on July 31, 2024.

BEIJING  China's imports grew faster-than-expected in July, while export growth came in below forecasts, according to customs data released Wednesday.

Exports in U.S. dollar terms rose by 7% in July from a year ago, missing expectations for a 9.7% increase, according to a Reuters poll. The July figure was also slower than 8.6% growth in June.

U.S. dollar-denominated imports rose in July by 7.2%, far more than the forecast of 3.5%, according to the poll.

China's imports from the U.S. surged by 24% year-on-year in July, according to CNBC calculations of official data. China's imports from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations rose by 11%, while those from the European Union climbed by 7%.

On a year-to-date basis, China's imports from the U.S. remained down, with a drop of 1.4%, while exports were up by 2.4%.

China's U.S. dollar exports to the U.S. and European Union each grew by about 8% year-on-year in July, while those to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations surged by 12%, making the region China's largest trading partner by far.
The CVS pharmacy logo is displayed on a sign above a CVS Health Corp. store in Las Vegas, Nevada on Feb. 7, 2024.

CVS Health on Wednesday slashed its full-year profit outlook again and announced a new plan to cut $2 billion in expenses over several years as higher medical costs squeeze the company and the broader U.S. insurance industry.

The cost-cutting plan will streamline the company's operations, increase the use of artificial intelligence and automation and "rationalize" its business portfolio, among other efforts, executives said during an earnings call Wednesday.

The retail drugstore chain also said Aetna President Brian Kane, the top executive at the CVS-owned insurance unit, will leave the company immediately based on the current performance and outlook for the segment.

CVS CEO Karen Lynch will take over management of the business and CFO Thomas Cowhey will also help to oversee it. Katerina Guerraz, CVS Health's chief strategy officer and head of enterprise affairs, will also become the insurance unit's chief operating officer.

"We are disappointed by the current performance and outlook for the health-care benefit segment, and I have decided to make leadership changes effective immediately," Lynch said on the call. She later added that the company is "committed to returning health-care benefits to its rightful place, and will drive execution and address the challenges facing this business."

The company expects 2024 adjusted earnings of $6.40 to $6.65 per share, down from previous guidance of at least $7 per share. Analysts surveyed by LSEG were expecting full-year adjusted profit of $6.97 per share.

CVS also cut its unadjusted earnings guidance to a range of $4.95 to $5.20 per share, down from at least $5.64 per share.

It marks the third consecutive quarter that the company has lowered its 2024 profit guidance.

CVS said its new outlook reflects continued pressure on its health insurance segment, which is seeing increased medical costs and the "unfavorable impact" of the company's Medicare Advantage star ratings. Those ratings help Medicare patients compare the quality of Medicare health and drug plans.

CVS owns health insurer Aetna. The company's insurance division includes plans by Aetna for the Affordable Care Act, Medicare Advantage and Medicaid, as well as dental and vision.

Medical costs in the second half of the year could be higher than those in the first, which the new guidance reflects, Cowhey said during the call.

Cowhey added that if medical costs remain high, the company may be required to take an in-year premium deficiency reserve in its Medicare business for 2024. That is a liability that an insurer may need to cover if future premiums are not enough to pay for anticipated claims and expenses.

A potential premium deficiency reserve could "change the cadence of earnings between third and fourth quarters," he said.

Insurers such as UnitedHealth Group , Humana and Elevance Health have seen medical costs spike as more Medicare Advantage patients return to hospitals for procedures they delayed during the pandemic, such as joint and hip replacements.

Medicare Advantage, a privately run health insurance plan contracted by the federal Medicare program, has long been a driver of growth and profits for the insurance industry. But Wall Street has become more concerned about the runaway costs associated with those plans, which cover more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries.

Here's what CVS reported for the second quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG:

Earnings per share: $1.83 adjusted vs. $1.73 expected

$1.83 adjusted vs. $1.73 expected Revenue: $91.23 billion vs. $91.5 billion expected

The company posted net income of $1.77 billion, or $1.41 per share, for the second quarter. That compares with net income of $1.90 billion, or $1.48 per share, for the year-earlier period.

Excluding certain items, such as amortization of intangible assets and capital losses, adjusted earnings per share were $1.83 for the quarter.

CVS reported sales of $91.23 billion for the quarter, up 2.6% from the same period a year ago due to growth in its pharmacy business and insurance unit.

The company noted that sales in its health services segment, which includes its pharmacy benefit manager Caremark, declined during the second quarter. CVS cited price improvements for pharmacy clients and the loss of a large unnamed client.
DBS Group Holdings suffered an outage in its digital services on March 29, 2023.

DBS Group said on Wednesday that Tan Su Shan, the firm's head of institutional banking, will succeed Chief Executive Piyush Gupta upon his retirement in March, making her the first female CEO of Singapore's biggest bank.

Tan, who joined the bank in 2010, will serve as the deputy CEO till then, DBS said in a statement.

CEO Piyush Gupta retires on 28 March 2025, when the bank hosts its next annual general meeting.

The banking veteran spent her first three years in the firm building DBS' wealth management and institutional banking businesses, which account for 90% of the company's income.

Tan's appointment will also make her the first internal candidate to succeed as CEO, DBS Chairman Peter Seah told reporters in an earnings briefing on Wednesday.

The recent appointment ends a long period of conjecture about who would take over from 64-year-old Gupta, a prominent figure in Asian banking who has been at the helm of DBS for 14 years.

Gupta has been instrumental in reshaping the bank's culture and upgrading its technology to meet the challenges posed by emerging digital banking competitors.
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Google CEO Sundar Pichai testifies before the House Judiciary Committee at the Rayburn House Office Building on December 11, 2018 in Washington, DC. Alex Wong | Getty Images

In ruling Monday that Google has held a monopoly in internet search, U.S. judge Amit Mehta invoked the company at the center of the most famous tech antitrust case in U.S. history: Microsoft . A federal judge determined in 1999 that Microsoft had illegally used the market power of its Windows operating system to box out rival browsers, namely Netscape Navigator. A settlement in 2001 forced the software giant to stop disadvantaging competitors in its PC deals. Google's landmark case, filed by the government in 2020, alleged that the company has kept its share of the search market by creating strong barriers to entry and a feedback loop that sustained its dominance. The court found that Google violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act, which outlaws monopolies. "The end result here is not dissimilar from the Microsoft court's conclusion as to the browser market," Mehta wrote in his 300-page ruling. "Just as the agreements in that case help[ed] keep usage of Navigator below the critical level necessary for Navigator or any other rival to pose a real threat to Microsoft's monopoly, Google's distribution agreements have constrained the query volumes of its rivals, thereby inoculating Google against any genuine competitive threat." Mehta said one key similarity is the "power of the default." For Google, that refers to its search position on Apple's iPhone and Samsung devices  deals that cost the company billions of dollars a year in payouts. "Users are free to navigate to Google's rivals through non-default search access points, but they rarely do," Mehta wrote.

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Mehta said a separate trial will take place on Sept. 4, to determine the remedies, or penalties against Google. At that point, Google can appeal, a process that experts said could take around two years. Microsoft appealed its initial ruling before ultimately settling with the Department of Justice. "All along, the government has implicitly and explicitly said they're basing this case on the Microsoft case," said Sam Weinstein, law professor at Cardozo Law School and a former DOJ antitrust lawyer. In the case of Microsoft, Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson found that the company forced PC makers to include its Internet Explorer browser in Windows, and threatened to punish them for installing or promoting Navigator. The judge proposed that Microsoft divest either its operating system business or its applications business, which both enjoyed market leadership. After Microsoft's successful appeal, a U.S. District Court banned the software company from retaliating against device makers for shipping PCs that include multiple operating systems. Microsoft was required to give software and hardware companies the same programming interfaces that Microsoft middleware employs to work with Windows. Nicholas Economides, an economics professor at New York University's Stern School of Business, said the similarities in the Google case are clear. "My first reaction on this is that Google appears to lose across the board," Economides said. "This big blow reminded me of the Justice Department's win against Microsoft."

Risk to core search

The most likely outcome, according to some legal experts, is that the court will ask Google to do away with certain exclusive agreements. The court could suggest that Google make it easier for users to try other search engines. While a monetary penalty is also on the table, the bigger risk is that Google will have to alter its business practices in a way that undermines profitability. For example, if Google can no longer be considered a default search engine on smartphones, it could lose a significant chunk of business in its core market. In the second quarter, "Google Search & Other" accounted for $48.5 billion in revenue, or 57% of Alphabet's total revenue. In its appeal, Google will likely introduce fresh evidence that artificial intelligence has played more of a role in competition, a dynamic that didn't exist when the DOJ filed its initial lawsuit. However, it's a perception Google has tried to downplay since being upstaged by OpenAI's ChatGPT. Neil Chilson, former chief technologist for the Federal Trade Commission and currently head of AI policy at the Abundance Institute, sees increased competition for Google due in part to AI, which could help the company's case. "The rigid market definitions means the court finds that Google has illegally maintained a monopoly in general search," Chilson said. But "search vertical providers" like Amazon and AI services like ChatGPT "threaten to upend Google's entire general search advertising business model," Chilson said. Google shares didn't move much after Monday's ruling, as the stock was already trading lower due to the broad market sell-off. The stock slipped another 0.6% on Tuesday to close at $158.29. Google didn't provide a comment for this story. Since Mehta didn't discuss potential remedies in the ruling, investors and analysts are forced to wait. Experts say it's unlikely that Google will be forced to break itself up. "I think there were obvious business lines you could spin off in the Microsoft case but it's not as obvious here," Weinstein said, adding that divestiture is rarely ordered for a Section 2 case. The trial beginning Sept. 4 will produce some important answers. Bill Baer, who formerly ran antitrust divisions at both the FTC and DOJ, said the Microsoft precedent makes the case against Google a strong one. "It's hard to say at this point what the DOJ is going to seek and what the judge is going to accept," Baer said.  CNBC's Jordan Novet contributed to this report.
Yahya Sinwar (C), Palestinian leader of Hamas in Gaza Strip, greets people during an event marking the 35th anniversary of the establishment of Hamas in Gaza City, Gaza on December 14, 2022. Ali Jadallah | Anadolu | Getty Images

Hamas on Tuesday appointed Yahya Sinwar as the leader of its political wing following the assassination of its former political chief, Ismail Haniyeh. This makes Sinwar  a man known for his ruthlessness who is widely seen as having masterminded the Oct. 7 attack  the most powerful person in the organization and its face in international diplomacy. "The most extreme part of Hamas carried out October 7 ... and is now officially in power," Michael Horowitz, a geopolitical analyst and head of intel at risk management firm Le Beck International, wrote in a post on X. The Middle East has been on edge following the killing of Haniyeh in Iran on July 31, which Iran and Hamas blamed on Israel. Israel has stayed silent on the matter, while Iran has pledged to carry out some form of retaliatory attack on the Jewish state. Meanwhile, Haniyeh's killing has resulted in a much more extreme leader for Hamas, likely setting the Palestinian militant group in a direction that bodes poorly for cease-fire talks aimed at ending the war and freeing the Israeli hostages still captive in Gaza. Haniyeh, based in Qatar, was Hamas' lead negotiator in the cease-fire talks with Israel and was described as being more pragmatic and supportive of a deal. While the negotiations have been ongoing for months with no success, Sinwar  who is based inside Gaza and is said to have the last word on Hamas' major decisions  often stalls or cuts off communications during the talks.

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"Sinwar's nomination for Hamas' top job  despite his being based in Gaza  prefaces a significant hardening of the movement's stance, particularly with regard to cease-fire talks," Victor Tricaud, a senior analyst at consulting firm Control Risks, told CNBC. The Palestinian leader "already had a very significant say in negotiations with Israel, but the difference now is that there will not be the comparatively pragmatic voice of Ismail Haniyeh to balance Sinwar's uncompromising maximalist views." Still, his nomination is unlikely to change the dynamics of the ground war in Gaza, as killing him remains a top priority for Israel, Tricaud said. But it does deal a blow to the efforts to achieve a lasting halt in fighting and regional de-escalation; the analyst expects "heightened instability in the region to persist for several more months."

A lifetime of fighting

Sinwar, 61, was born in a refugee camp in Gaza and spent at least 22 years of his adult life in Israeli prisons. He had been sentenced to life in 1989 for directing the killing of two Israeli soldiers and four Palestinians that he believed to be collaborators, having already made a name for himself as "the Butcher of Khan Yunis" for his hunting down of Palestinians he suspected to be working with Israel. He was released early, however, in a highly controversial prisoner swap in 2011 that saw more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners exchanged for one Israeli soldier, Gilad Shalit, who had been abducted by Hamas five years prior. Sinwar later said in interviews that he used his time in prison to learn to speak, read and write in Hebrew, and to understand the psychology and behavior of his Israeli captors. In 2015 he was designated a terrorist by the U.S. government, and in 2017 he was elected the leader of Hamas.

Yahya Sinwar chairs a meeting with leaders of Palestinian factions at his office in Gaza City, April 13, 2022. Adel Hana | AP

The International Criminal Court in May said it was filing arrest warrant applications for Sinwar and Haniyeh for war crimes and crimes against humanity. It simultaneously filed arrest warrant applications for war crimes and crimes against humanity for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Sinwar's elevation to Hamas' highest position and the consequent merging of its political and military wings also complicates any potential plans for a "day after" in Gaza, for which Israel's government has not presented a plan.
The family of a man who was held at Santa Rita Jail and reportedly died from drinking too much water, or hyponatremia, has sued Alameda County for neglecting him, seeking unspecified damages. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

The family of a 26-year-old man who died from drinking too much water at the Santa Rita Jail last year has sued Alameda County and health care company Wellpath, accusing them of showing deliberate indifference to his medical needs. It is the latest of numerous lawsuits accusing Wellpath of neglecting inmates whose care it supervises in jails across California.

Jesus Eric Magana was arrested and jailed on suspicion of burglary in Livermore in March 2023 and placed in a high-security housing unit at the jail. About a month later, the suit said, a guard saw trash in Maganas cell and told him to pick it up, but Magana said he was too ill.

The next day, the suit said, Magana was found vomiting in his cell and constantly drinking water, and a deputy said he would call a nurse but failed to do so. Another officer entered later, shut off the water and transferred Magana to a medical unit for observation, but he was given no treatment, the suit said.

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A nurse and a sheriffs deputy later saw Magana lying unconscious on a bed but took no action, following the policy of the sheriffs office to intervene only when signs of life are at issue, the familys lawyers said in the suit. Soon afterward, the lawyers added, more officers arrived, saw no signs of life and summoned a doctor and nurses, who injected Magana with Narcan, used to treat opioid overdoses.

Less than an hour later, he was pronounced dead from acute water intoxication, according to a medical report quoted in the suit. It said there were no narcotics in his blood.

The illness, also known as psychogenic polydipsia or PPD, manifests in excessive consumption of water and is often associated with other mental disorders. It can cause vomiting, seizures and delirium and can be life-threatening if not treated properly. Consuming too much water, or hyponatremia, alters the sodium balance in the body and may lead to brain swelling, coma and death.

According to the suit, filed Friday in federal court, jail and county officials have refused to provide Maganas family with an autopsy or any records of his medical care.

Alameda County is trying to delay, obstruct, and suppress the discovery of misconduct and malfeasance, and Wellpath is putting profits over inmates health, attorneys Yolanda Huang and Mark Merin said in the lawsuit, which seeks disclosure of all medical records and unspecified damages.

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They also said the U.S. Justice Department issued a report in 2021 saying Alameda County had failed to provide adequate mental health care at its jails, especially at the Santa Rita Jail, where 19 inmates had committed suicide since 2014.

Representatives of Sheriff Yesenia Sanchezs office and Wellpath were not immediately available for comment.
India's biggest budget airline IndiGo has been trialing a booking feature that will allow women to avoid booking a seat next to men on flights.

The feature, the first of its kind for an airline, works by showing female travelers a pink seat at the seat selection page if it will be occupied by a female passenger, a company representative told CNBC Travel.

Male travelers, however, will not see this information, the company said.

Travelers on IndiGo must identify their genders when they purchase tickets, which allows the airline to control access to these details, according to Indigo.

The carrier began rolling out the service in May on a pilot basis, and is available on all flights, the company said. However, IndiGo's website and mobile app did not show the feature when CNBC did a check.

The new feature has received "positive individual reactions" on social media, IndiGo's CEO told CNBC's "Street Signs Asia" last week.

"Technology is now enabling some things which were not able in the past. We brought [the initiative] up as a test ... It has responded very well with our customers, but also internationally," CEO Pieter Elbers said.
Russia's President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with organizers of the "Russia" forum and exhibition, which celebrates the country's major achievements, in Moscow, Russia July 8, 2024. Artyom Geodakyan | Via Reuters

Russia President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine on Wednesday of carrying out "yet another large-scale provocation" at the Russian border. "As you know, the Kiev regime has undertaken yet another large-scale provocation, delivering indiscriminate fire from various types of weapons, including missiles, at civilian buildings, residential houses, ambulances," he said in comments released by the Kremlin on the Telegram social media platform. The comment comes after Russia's defense ministry on Tuesday claimed that 300 Ukrainian "militants" had launched a cross-border attack into the Russian region of Kursk, using tanks and armored vehicles.

In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state owned Sputnik agency, Russia's President Vladimir Putin (R) flanked by Russia's Defence Minister Andrei Belousov (2nd L) and director of the Federal Security Service (FSB) of the Russian Federation, Alexander Bortnikov (3rd L) along with the Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Sergei Shoigu listen to Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, Valery Gerasimov (L) seen on a screen as he remotely joins a meeting with heads of law enforcement agencies to address the situation in the Kursk region, in Moscow, on August 7, 2024. Gavriil Grigorov | Afp | Getty Images

The Russian defense ministry said on Wednesday that its forces and Russian border authorities "have been destroying armed formations of the Ukrainian Armed Forces during the last night in Kursk region's areas immediately adjacent to the RussianUkrainian border." "Air and missile strikes, artillery fire as well as units of the State Border Covering Force prevented the enemy from advancing deep into the territory of the Russian Federation," the ministry said. In a Google-translated update on Telegram, Kursk's Acting Governor Alexey Smirnov saidTuesday that two people had died and that 13 others were injured, in what he described as "massive shelling" of the region by Ukraine, particularly focused around the city of Sudzha.

This photo released by the acting Governor of Kursk region Alexei Smirnov telegram channel , shows a damaged house after shelling by the Ukrainian side in the city of Sudzha, Kursk region that borders Ukraine, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Governor of Kursk region telegram channel via AP
A version of Samsung Electronics' fifth-generation high bandwidth memory chips, or HBM3E, has passed Nvidia's tests for use in its artificial intelligence processors, three sources briefed on the results said.

A version of Samsung Electronics' fifth-generation high bandwidth memory chips, or HBM3E, has passed Nvidia's tests for use in its artificial intelligence processors, three sources briefed on the results said.

The qualification clears a major hurdle for the world's biggest memory chipmaker which has been struggling to catch up with local rival SK Hynix in the race to supply the advanced memory chips capable of handling generative AI work.

Samsung and Nvidia have yet to sign a supply deal for the approved eight-layer HBM3E chips but will do so soon, the sources said, adding that they expect supplies would start by the fourth quarter of 2024.

The South Korean technology giant's 12-layer version of HBM3E chips, however, has yet to pass Nvidia's tests, the sources said, declining to be identified as the matter remains confidential.

Both Samsung and Nvidia declined to comment.

HBM is a type of dynamic random access memory or DRAM standard first produced in 2013 in which chips are vertically stacked to save space and reduce power consumption. A key component of graphics processing units for AI, it helps process massive amounts of data produced by complex applications.
Sony on Wednesday reported a 10% jump in operating profit in the fiscal first quarter, beating analyst expectations after seeing strong growth in its gaming, music and imaging chip businesses.

The Japanese technology giant's music division, in particular, got a boost during the quarter as the release of R&B star Beyonce's new "Cowboy Carter" album boosted its performance.

Here's how Sony did in the June quarter, versus LSEG consensus estimates:

Revenue: 3.01 trillion Japanese yen ($20.5 billion), versus 2.8 trillion yen expected. That marked a 2% rise from the same period a year ago.

Operating profit: 279.11 billion yen ($1.9 billion), versus 275.35 billion yen expected. That was up 10% year-over-year.

In an earnings release Wednesday, Sony said that its first-quarter sales benefited from "significant increases" in game and network services, music, and imaging and sensing solutions.

Gaming, for which Sony is well-known thanks to its popular PlayStation consoles, banked revenues of 864.9 billion yen in the quarter, up 12% from 771.9 billion yen a year ago.

Meanwhile, Sony's music and imaging sensor divisions saw revenue jumps of 23% and 21%, respectively.

For full-year 2024, Sony revised its forecast upward saying it now expects to hit 12.6 billion yen of sales. That's up 2% from what the company was previously guiding.

Sony also upped its operating profit forecast by 3%, noting it expects to reach 1.3 trillion yen in consolidated operating profit for the full year.
The Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, California, US on Monday, April 29, 2024.

Sony's finance chief on Wednesday said the Japanese technology and media giant will not reconsider a fresh bid for film and TV production group Paramount Global .

Sony currently has no plans to submit a revised offer for Paramount, said Hiroki Totoki, the company's chief financial officer.

In a response to a question during Sony's fiscal first-quarter earnings presentation, Totoki said that an acquisition of Paramount "does not fit well with our strategy."

"If we have to acquire the whole of Paramount, it would be quite risky because it may not be well fitted to our capital allocation structure," he added.

Totoki's comments confirm reports on Tuesday from Japanese financial newspaper Nikkei, that Sony had decided not to make a new bid for Paramount Global after independent film studio Skydance Media struck a deal to acquire the media giant.
Vice presidential candidate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz looks on during a campaign rally with U.S. Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., August 6, 2024.

As many retirees struggle to afford the basics, there's been bipartisan support to exempt Social Security from income taxes.

That policy has spilled into the 2024 election with a federal proposal from Former President Donald Trump and recent state legislation from Vice President Kamala Harris' new running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

"We can do a lot of things to help the people," Trump said during a "Fox & Friends" interview on Wednesday morning. "People on Social Security are being killed, and one of the things I'm doing is no tax for seniors on Social Security, and I'll get it done quickly."

More from Personal Finance:

Here's how Tim Walz could help shape the child tax credit

Here's how families are covering the rising cost of college

A 'soft landing' is still on the table, economists say

Of course, there are key differences when comparing a federal tax proposal with state legislation, including the political and fiscal landscape, policy experts say.
Elon Musk is "the one person who is accountable to no one" and his impact on public discourse should not be underestimated, the U.K.'s technology minister said in an interview with the Times newspaper, adding to recent criticisms of the technology billionaire from senior government officials.

Peter Kyle, secretary of science, innovation and technology, said in the interview, which was published Wednesday, that Musk has the power to influence major world affairs  even the war between Russia and Ukraine.

Kyle added that the relationship Britain has with companies such as X and other major social media firms, "is much more akin to the negotiations with fellow secretaries of state in other countries, simply because of the scale and scope that they have."

His comments, which were made before the recent riots in the U.K., follow Sunday's controversial remarks from Musk about British affairs. The entrepreneur, who owns the X social media site and is CEO of electric vehicle maker Tesla , made a post on his platform suggesting immigration would lead to civil war in the U.K.

Kyle is not the only government official levelling criticism at Musk. On Monday, the British prime minister's official spokesperson said there was "no justification" for comments like those made by X's owner and chairman.
People cool off themselves with water sprays besides the Eiffel Tower in Paris on July 29, 2024, during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Luis Tato | Afp | Getty Images

Cast out of the Olympic Games as a pariah due to its ongoing war in Ukraine, Russia appears to be hell-bent on hating on the international sporting tournament in Paris. After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russian athletes were banned from performing in the 2024 Games unless they participated as "Individual Neutral Athletes." As such, there are only 15 Russian athletes competing at the Summer Games in France this year. Various Russian media outlets, the vast majority of which are linked to the Russian state, have appeared to revel in misfortunes and controversies  both significant and less so  that have sprung up during the competition, ranging from complaints over the catering in the Olympic Village to the gender furor in the women's boxing event. With nothing to win and less to lose, Russia's media coverage of the Olympics has been invariably negative about the competition, host France and the organizer, the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

A 'disgrace' off the blocks

The tone of the Russian media coverage was set straight after the opening ceremony, with the Russian press honing in on the "scandal" and "disgrace" caused by a segment of the pageant featuring drag queens, which was accused of mocking Christianity. Claims by organizers that the segment was meant to represent a pagan feast were ridiculed by the Russian media, with weekly newspaper outlet Argumenty i Fakty describing it as the "Olympus of Hell" and reporting that "the world" had condemned the "blasphemous" opening event.

The Olympic flag is rasied at the Place du Trocadero in front of the Eiffel Tower during the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France. Francois-Xavier Marit | Pool | Getty Images

The Russian media has subsequently portrayed the Games as misrun and mismanaged, focusing on crime, controversy and pollution at the event, and accusing host France of having a cavalier and careless approach to the well-being of athletes. A British athlete complaining about worms found in fish served to athletes in the Olympic Village was reported with relish Tuesday, while a Covid-19 outbreak affecting more than 40 athletes, according to the World Health Organization, is a popular talking point. Likewise, with the quality of the water of the River Seine in Paris: Russian media outlets have had a field day with news of canceled training sessions and a postponed race due to bacterial readings. "The current 2024 Olympics in Paris have become a record holder for various scandals, starting with the opening ceremony. But all records for the lack of common sense were broken by the organizers' permission to hold water competitions in the dirty and dangerous Seine River," Moscow-based Moskovsky Komsomolets ran Tuesday, asking an expert to list the "diseases that Olympians can catch in the Seine."

Competitors swim in the River Seine in the Men's Individual Triathlon event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

In a similar vein, Argumenty i Fakty published an online feature on Monday entitled "Poisoned by Paris. Athletes go to hospital, but IOC doesn't care." The IOC has defended the use of the river for sporting events, despite the disruption to competitive events caused by the water quality. To give a flavor of the coverage, Moscow-based tabloid Komsomolskaya Pravda's main sports feature on Wednesday, which wrapped up the latest news from Paris, was titled: "Dozens of athletes fell ill with Covid, [American gymnast Simone] Biles went on a binge on fast food, police complained about bedbugs, champion found worms in fish. What happened at the Olympics on day 11."

Imane Khelif (blue) of Algeria competes against Janjaem Suwannapheng (red) of Thailand in the women's 66kg semi-final boxing match during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Roland-Garros Stadium, in Paris, France on August 6, 2024. Khelif wins the match and advanced to final. Anadolu | Anadolu | Getty Images

As with the Western press, the gender furor over boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting also featured in the Russia media. What Russian outlets did not mention is that Russian networks linked to the Kremlin have been accused of using online disinformation and propaganda to spread claims about the gender eligibility of the boxers, news agency The Associated Press reported, and about the Games, generally. Western news outlets have also covered some of these topics, to a lesser extent. CNBC has reached out to the Kremlin for comment.

Sour grapes

It's perhaps no surprise that Russia's press coverage of the competitive events has been muted, given the country's lack of official involvement and bitter relationship with Western countries, which have predominantly backed Ukraine in the war. Deprived of a possibility to haul medals as during previous tournaments, Russia is not even broadcasting the Games for the first time that has happened since 1984. Along with rampant anti-Western rhetoric by the Kremlin and state media, this has damped down Russian public interest in the competition. Russia was already smarting from the World Anti-Doping Agency's decision in 2019 to ban the country from international sports competitions for four years. That came after the country was found to be running a large-scale, state-sponsored doping scheme, which Moscow denied overseeing.

Nikita Novitskii of Team ROC skis during the Men's Freestyle Skiing Moguls Training session at the Genting Snow Park on January 31, 2022 in Zhangjiakou, China. Clive Rose | Getty Images

The ban meant that Russian athletes had to compete under the banner of the "Russian Olympic Committee" at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics  which took place in 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic  and at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, held just days before the invasion of Ukraine. Russia's aggression toward its neighbor led to the IOC banning athletes from Russia and Moscow's ally Belarus from competing in the 2024 Olympics, unless they agreed to participate as "Individual Neutral Athletes," rather than as teams. They've also only been allowed to compete if they don't actively support the war against Ukraine. "No flag, anthem, colours or any other identifications whatsoever of Russia or Belarus will be displayed at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in any official venue or any official function," the IOC ruled as part of its strict criteria for Russian and Belarusians' participation in the tournament. No government or state officials have been allowed to attend. The IOC published a list showing which Russian and Belarusian athletes agreed or declined to participate. Some initially accepted invitations but subsequently withdrew  perhaps unsurprising, when some Russian sports chiefs have balked at the restrictions on their athletes, or described Russian participants in the Games as "traitors." "Neutrals" Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider became the first Russians to win a medal at the Paris Games, when they took silver in the women's tennis doubles last Sunday. They've refused to answer questions regarding Russian politics.

Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider, Russians participating in the Olympic Games as "Individual Neutral Athletes," pose on the podium during the Tennis Women's Doubles medal ceremony after the Tennis Women's Doubles Gold medal match at Roland Garros on August 04, 2024 in Paris, France. Clive Brunskill | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images
Senior CPC official visits Uruguay, South Africa

Xinhua) 14:39, August 07, 2024

MONTEVIDEO/JOHANNESBURG, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, led a CPC delegation to visit South Africa from Wednesday to Saturday and Uruguay from Monday to Tuesday.

During the visit to Uruguay, Liu met and exchanged views on China-Uruguay relations with Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou, President of the House of Representatives Ana Olivera, Foreign Minister Omar Paganini, and other Uruguayan political figures.

The CPC delegation also held discussions and exchanges with representatives of Uruguayan media, think tanks and universities, deeply promoting the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee.

Both sides agreed to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, strengthen inter-party exchanges, and deepen cooperation in economy and trade and other fields under the framework of Belt and Road cooperation.

They also agreed to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, push the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Uruguay to a new level, and promote the development of China-Latin America relations.

During his stay in South Africa, Liu met and exchanged views on China-South Africa relations with Cyril Ramaphosa, president of South Africa and the country's governing party, the African National Congress (ANC), Fikile Mbalula, secretary general of the ANC, Solly Mapaila, general secretary of the South African Communist Party, Ronald Lamola, member of the ANC National Working Committee and South African Foreign Minister, and leaders of some parties of the National Assembly.

Both sides agreed to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, strengthen inter-party exchanges, deepen exchanges on governing experience, promote pragmatical cooperation in various fields, and boost the development of China-South Africa and China-Africa relations.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Rev. Amos Brown, president of the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP, has been a mentor to Vice President Kamala Harris. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle

As Barack Obamas popularity soared during the 2008 primary, his opponents tried to reverse the trend by associating him with inflammatory comments made by his longtime Chicago pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

Comedian Jon Stewart panned the episode as the Reverending story. But for a while, it worked.

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Now, Vice President Kamala Harris opponents in the conservative media are trying to repeat the strategy by linking her with comments made by a religious mentor shes long been close to: the Rev. Amos Brown, the San Francisco civil rights leader and former city supervisor.

Youre going to love this. We have a brand new Rev. Jeremiah Wright. His name: Rev. Dr. Amos Brown, Fox News Sean Hannity said last week on his show.

Hannity pointed to Brown saying America is a racist country in 2021. Two decades earlier, at a San Francisco memorial days after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Brown said America needed to look in the mirror at its own actions. Hannity noted that even Nancy Pelosi, of all people, was in attendance, and publicly rebuked the pastor at the event.

So here we are again, absorbing yet another racialized attack from a different era and made for a different era. And it is unlikely to work again  for a lot of reasons.

Not only is Brown a much more well-established and respected presence in political and religious circles, but Americas attitudes toward its racist history shifted after the 2020 police murder of George Floyd. Especially in California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a budget in June that included $12 million for reparations legislation.

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As the longtime leader of a local NAACP chapter and a leader in Californias reparations discussion, Brown has long been in the forefront of challenging Americas legacy on race and the inequalities that continue today. Black Americans are far behind white Americans in educational attainment, homeownership and virtually every other socioeconomic measurement.

Conservatives call those bad outcomes, denying hard truths. Its often not easy for many to hear anything other than flag-waving jingoism. But Brown has gone to that place for most of his adult life. He may not always be right, but he cant simply be dismissed.

To be sure, many voters across the country arent even close to engaging in this sort of public conversation about race. Thats why conservatives are reheating the bad-pastor narrative. Even if the attack is doomed to fail, it is another effort  like Trump falsely questioning Harris racial heritage last week  designed to seed doubt in voters by describing an opponent as outside the mainstream.

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, speak at a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Matt Rourke/Associated Press

Hannity and his acolytes arent interested in having a nuanced conversation about race. Instead, theyre using a crude racial shorthand to convince a few of Americas remaining undecided battleground state voters that Harris is not one of them. That shes a radical mixed-race San Franciscan with a radical Black pastor. That shes not you, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan.

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Its old, its tired, its ineffective, said Steve Phillips, a San Francisco attorney, author and top Democratic donor who was an early supporter of both Obama and Harris. It didnt work on Obama, so that might give them a little pause to start with.

As Obama said of Wright at that time, you are not your pastor.

Did I ever hear him make remarks that could be considered controversial while I sat in the church? Yes, Obama said in 2008. Did I strongly disagree with many of his political views? Absolutely  just as Im sure many of you have heard remarks from your pastors, priests or rabbis with which you strongly disagreed.

Wright, 82, was the former pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago. He presided at Obamas wedding and the baptisms of his two daughters. Obama was a member of his congregation for 20 years. The title of Obamas memoir, The Audacity of Hope, was inspired by one of Wrights sermons.

Obama initially stood by Wright after revelations that he had made critical comments about America after the Sept. 11 attacks. Obama delivered a much-lauded speech about race in March 2008 as Wrights comments were crushing his momentum against Hillary Clinton in the race for the Democratic nomination. He called on Americans to break the racial stalemate that divided the country and addressed the prejudices and fears of both Black and white Americans.

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I can no more disown him (Wright) than I can disown the Black community, Obama said. I can no more disown him than I can disown my white grandmother  a woman who once confessed her fear of Black men who passed her by on the street, and who on more than one occasion has uttered racial or ethnic stereotypes that made me cringe.

However, Wright continued to make controversial comments. In May 2008, the Obamas left the congregation, and candidate Obama more forcefully denounced Wright.

As the 83-year-old pastor of Third Baptist Church of San Francisco since 1976, Brown is much more in the orthodoxy of Democratic politics than Wright was.

Brown served four years on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, with Harris serving as manager for his 2000 campaign. He is a longtime leader of San Franciscos NAACP branch and was one one of eight students in the only college class taught by Martin Luther King Jr. at Morehouse College in Atlanta. He was later arrested with King in 1961 at a lunch counter sit-in and was mentored by civil rights icon Medgar Evers.

He has publicly supported Harris campaigns for office and attended her inauguration as vice president in 2021. In February, Harris invited Brown to the White House with other spiritual leaders, and she called him recently after she ascended to the top spot on the Democratic ticket to pray together.

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Today, I welcomed faith leaders from across our nation to the White House, including my pastor Reverend Amos Brown, Harris wrote on a February Instagram post that depicted her and Brown holding hands surrounded by other faith leaders.

Harris gave Brown a shout-out when she addressed the national convention of the NAACP in 2022.

He has been on this journey with me every step of the way, from when I first thought about running for public office almost two decades ago, Harris told the convention. And he has been such a voice of leadership, more leadership, and leadership in our nation. And so I want to thank you, Dr. Brown, for all that you are  all that you are.

She isnt the only politician who has been close to Brown. In 2017, former President Bill Clinton spoke for 22 minutes about Brown at a celebration of his four decades of service at Third Baptist Church. Also appearing were then-Gov. Jerry Brown, former Mayor Willie Brown and Rev. Jesse Jackson. Clinton told Amos Brown that he came because the pastor gave 40 years of your life to make this church the embodiment of San Franciscos open door.

Brown even befriended Franklin Graham, the conservative white evangelist who spoke glowingly of Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention last month.

Brown and Graham came together after the 2014 police killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., to co-author an opinion piece in USA Today on the need for the nation to heal.

Through civil dialogue, several visits with each other, mutual respect and a common belief that Christ has the power to unite any two people, we have forged a special relationship, Brown and Graham wrote. Indeed, we are good friends.

Rev. Amos Brown, president of the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP, also serves as the vice chair of Californias Reparations Task Force. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle

As he took his turn in the right-wing limelight last week, I called Brown to ask what he is taking from the episode. The pastor, who is vice chair of Californias Reparations Task Force, did not back down from his comments to the Chronicle in 2021 that America is a racist country.

Weve had racist practices, Brown told me. Are all people in America racist? No, but we supported slavery for 246 years.

Browns home state of Mississippi recorded 581 lynchings through 1968, according to the NAACP. Yet, it took until 2022 for President Joe Biden to sign a law banning lynching, a measure that Harris had co-sponsored as a senator.

It took hundreds of years to get to that law, Brown said. It proves that in terms of the body politic of this nation, it is a racist country. Because why? We have been treating Black folks as being less than human. Thats what George Floyd was all about.

Brown sought to add context to his remarks made at the 2001 memorial service at San Franciscos Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, six days after the Sept. 11 attacks.

Brown told me he prefaced his remarks that day with a story from when he was a young boy at Christmas. While his sister was in her room wrapping presents, he ate a piece of her chicken. When she found out, she clobbered me, bloodying his lip. Brown said he cried and told his mother what his sibling had done to him. His mother said she would discipline her, but then asked him, But what did you do to her?

And (at the 2001 memorial service) I raised the relevant question, Brown said. What have we done in terms of our relationship with the world community?

In his speech, Brown said, America, is there anything you did to set up this climate? America, America. What did you do  either intentionally or unintentionally  in the world order, in Central America, in Africa where bombs are still blasting?

Ohhhh, America, Brown said, what did you do?

Brown also recalled telling the audience that those terrorists did evil. It was wrong, and it cannot be justified, and they have taken out of context what the Quran speaks about jihad.

The crowd gave him a loud ovation. But then, the Chronicle reported, Paul Holm, a former partner of terrorist victim Mark Bingham, told then-Sen. Barbara Boxer that This was supposed to be a memorial service.

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, the Chronicle reported, broke from her prepared remarks and said, With all due respect to some of the sentiments that were earlier expressed  some of which I agree with  make no mistake (about it) . . . the act of terrorism on Sept. 11 put those people outside the order of civilized behavior, and we will not take responsibility for that.

Brown recalled how the Black activist and NAACP co-founder W.E.B. Du Bois reminded us that Black folks have been made to see reality through the eyes of the majority culture and through our Afrocentric eyes  if people misinterpreted what I said, that was because theyre seeing reality through only one eye.

Brown, who is now leading a group of more than 100 religious leaders involved in a 100 Days of Prayer campaign for civil behavior during the campaign season, told me Harris political opponents are doing the same thing to him as they did to Wright.
If youre a Windows user who relies on Google Chrome, get ready: your favorite browser is about to cull your extensions.

The Chrome browser is now displaying a message saying some extensions may soon no longer be supported. Over the coming months, Google will disable them. (You can turn them back on, but Chrome will still eventually stop running them.) The biggest affected extension: the popular uBlock Origin ad-blocker, though Chrome is warning youll have to remove or replace many other extensions soon, too.

This is just the next chapter in the Manifest V3 saga  Googles long-term plan to phase out support for older browser extensions and require developers to adopt a new browser add-on standard. But you do have options to keep using your favorite Chrome extensions  and some browsers, most notably Firefox, will keep supporting them as well.
There may be no more imitable voice than that of Looney Tunes head honcho, Bugs Bunny. Its a voice, in fact, thats heard round the world. That, however, doesnt mean its the same exact voice round the world, as its dubbed by all sorts of different actors in all sorts of different places.

Curious to see what he sounds like in other languages, I took a very cartoonish plunge down a YouTube wormhole (rabbit hole?) to find the five most entertaining, starting with

5 German A glimpse into a world where Bugs Bunny is a mischievous, soft-spoken and campy German man is accessible to all of us thanks to the magic of YouTube. Bugs taunts Yosemite Sam from the top of a castle in a timbre that perfectly fits with the amount of drag he does. This is a man who is almost definitely getting satisfaction beyond pure humor from the chaos hes sowing. Unrelated to Bugs but still delightful is how perfect Yosemite Sam is as a German man. Despite being modeled on a Wild West cowboy, his furious sputtering really sings when hes sprechen the Deutsche.

4 Polish If youve ever wanted to see a cartoon character voiced by someone who seems to be embarrassed to be voicing a cartoon character, the Polish dub of Bugs Bunny is for you. Its the weirdest on this list because Bugs basically just sounds like a Polish guy. Definitely a Polish guy with a high voice whos kind of annoying, but nowhere near Looney on the register. If you close your eyes, it sounds like an internet video of a Polish teenager harassing an authority figure. Advertisement Advertisement

3 French French Bugs Bunny is a trip, and not only because the French Quoi de neuf, docteur? sounds extra devastating for some reason. The bigger choice here is to apparently make up for Bugs usual nasal timbre by giving him an incredibly raspy voice instead. He doesnt sound like a mischievous child, but a drunk man whos been chain-smoking on a bar patio all day and is now playing little pranks on passersby. Advertisement Advertisement

2 Spanish Man, if French Bugs sounds like he just choked down a half-pack of Gaulouises, Spanish Bugs sounds like he had a multiple-black-and-mild-a-day habit for years. I dont know what it would be about any part of the look of Bugs Bunny, even if you hadnt heard the original, that would have you dropping your vocal register in the booth, but that was the choice this voice actor made. Advertisement Advertisement Pop a Spanish Looney Tune on with a good subwoofer, and you could set off a car alarm.
Oh no, we have to rename everything. Because the Earth moved

Any walk through an airport reveals a bunch of operations that seem to make no sense. Youll see passengers lining up for 15 minutes for security and then needing to rush at the end to get their stuff into bins. Why not stretch out the area where people fill those bins, removing that bottleneck? Or, youll see a bunch of expensive stores selling handbags and designer shoes, and approximately zero customers are in there, because no one buys that stuff at the airport. Why not demolish all those and replace them with private bedrooms to cater to young lovers?

Other operations at airports have a lot of thought behind them. But these strategic ones might be the silliest of all.

5 Moving Numbers Around, Because the Earth Keeps Shifting Airports assign numbers to their runways, and they pick these numbers using a specific system. The runways number describes its direction. Don't Miss Lets say, for example, that a runway points a tiny bit south of southeast, so that it points 140 degrees from north. This runway will be called Runway 14. Actually, it will have two names because if it points 140 degrees from north going one way, it points 320 degrees from north going the other way. The runway is therefore named 14/32. James Lucas This compass should clear everything up. Theres just one problem, though: North moves. The magnetic north pole can move 40 miles in a year, and over time, that means a runway that points 140 degrees might not point that way any longer. In 2019, the FAA ordered Wichita Eisenhower National Airport to rename its 14/32 runway to 15/33. The cost of repainting this and their other runways? Hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hey, when youre shopping for new paint to pretty up your runway, you dont want to skimp and buy the cheap stuff.

4 Scaring Birds with Tina Turner Songs Advertisement The greatest threat to an airport comes not from human terrorists but from avian terrorists. A busy airport might see hundreds of bird strikes a year  bird strikes, of course, being the official term for when a bird strikes a plane. Some bird strikes have no consequence (for the plane, even if it kills the bird). Other times, a bird flies into an engine and the plane comes crashing down. The strongest defense against birds? Killing them  with guns. Airports have snipers devoted to killing any geese that they spot flying in a suspicious manner. Other airports employ something called acoustic deterrence. They play sounds that keep birds away. This works, not necessarily by scaring birds away with noise but by disrupting their own calls, keeping them from convening. Heres a video of the system in action: You might have noticed that thats actually a video of The Best by Tina Turner. Thats because one Gloucester airport discovered that their usual bird distress recordings werent working. The van broadcasting this music happened to have a Tina Turner record handy, so they tried broadcasting that instead. It worked, and the world was saved from birds  for now. Advertisement Advertisement

3 Blasting Runways to Stop Planes from Slipping Off Every time a plane lands, it leaves the runway in slightly worse shape for the plane that follows. This isnt because the plane erodes the tarmac. Its because the plane deposits something. A little bit of rubber transfers from the planes wheels to the ground below each time. So, a couple times a year, the airport has to scrape the runway with high-pressure water, to remove all that rubber residue. One of these maintenance sessions might remove 100,000 square feet of rubber from a single runway. Advertisement Without this maintenance, airplanes risk slipping. The danger is a little more complicated than sliding on the rubber itself. Instead, the problem is that a runway coated in rubber wont be able to drain properly. It will stay wet when wed otherwise expect it to be dry, and the landing plane wont have enough traction. Advertisement Advertisement Maybe this will lead the plane to crash right into the terminal. That would likely ruin peoples entire day.

2 Placing the Whole Thing on Balls What happens if a massive earthquake strikes an airport? Arguably, an airplane would be the safest place for you to be in such circumstances. You can take off, seconds before the ground beneath you crumbles. This was portrayed in the disaster film 2012, released in 2009, as well as the disaster film 2009, released in 2012. But that offers little comfort to the people inside the airports buildings, who will still be facing doom. One solution? Placing an entire terminal on a bunch of ball bearings, so a little slipping and sliding in the bedrock below wont rip the building apart at all. Advertisement Advertisement The more technical name for these bearings is friction pendulum seismic isolators. When San Francisco built their international terminal a couple decades ago, they plopped it on 267 of these gizmos. If an 8.0 earthquake hits the city, the terminal will be fine. If a 10.0 earthquake hits, it wont, but nothing else will be fine either, so lets not bother planning for that.
Joe Rogan says that hes not responsible for the unpleasant outcomes experienced by people who act on the ample and uninformed medical advice he doles out on The Joe Rogan Experience. Kyle Kinane could say the same for people who consult him on the topic of sunscreen.

In Rogans live stand-up special for Netflix, this past Saturdays Burn the Boats, the most successful podcaster in history tripled-down on the excuse hes been making ever since he started to use his massive platform to opine on issues of politics and public health  hes not a scientist, hes not a public servant, hes just a professional bullshitter. Of course, Rogans rhetoric when discussing issues such as the rollout of the COVID vaccine on JRE would suggest otherwise, as Rogan consistently portrays himself as an anti-medical-establishment expert who knows all the truths about COVID and COVID treatment that Big Pharma hoped would stay secret while they injected the unsuspecting American citizenry with microchips and DNA scramblers.

Still, the official company line, as reiterated by the comedy mega-star on Saturday, is that Rogan is not a doctor, and hes also not responsible for what ill fate befalls any of his millions of followers who treat him like one. Said Rogan in Burn the Boats after spending the last three years giving out mass medical consultations, If youre getting your vaccine advice from me, is that really my fault? Thats not my job, kids. Im a professional shit-talker. Some of the things I say make sense. A lot of them dont. Its up to you to figure out whats what. Thats the fun part.

Don't Miss

On the other hand, Kyle Kinane, who once described himself as a stand-up comedian who will never be on the Joe Rogan radio hour. WE EXIST, came forward on Monday to reiterate his much stronger stance on the comedians place in the medical community, imploring stand-up fans to think critically about whom they trust to provide scientific data  especially if its the man on the podcast.

Kinanes timely repost comes from his September 2023 special Shocks and Struts, which, though it wasnt streamed live, contained significantly less complaining about cancel culture and virtually no political claims that require a write-up by Snopes. And, honestly, Kinanes non-advice is more medically sound than anything Rogan has ever uttered. Sooner or later, a peer-reviewed study will definitively prove that beet-red men with shoulders that look like French bread pizzas give the shittiest medical tips  and when that day comes, there will finally be a scientific consensus confirming that Rogans medical advice is about as reliable as his shampoo recommendation.

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Old telephone cables may be leaching lead into Tahoe, shown in 2022, but a long legal battle is keeping them from being removed. Now a group of determined Tahoe locals are trying to extract them on their own. Getty Images 2022 One of the old lead-lined cables on the bottom of Tahoe extends to Baldwin Beach in South Lake Tahoe, a popular summertime destination. Minh Connors/The Chronicle Some of the defunct telephone cables appear to be deteriorating, sparking concerns that they are leaching toxic lead into Tahoes waters. California Sportfishing Protection Alliance/Marine Taxonomic Services About 6 miles of defunct and abandoned lead-lined telephone cables are sitting on the bottom of Lake Tahoe. Tahoe Lead Removal Project

Emerald Bay, punctuated by a wooded island on Lake Tahoes western edge, is probably the lakes most recognizable feature. But beneath the waters azure surface lies an issue few have set eyes on: about 6 miles worth of defunct century-old telephone cables that contain toxic lead.

The cables, made of copper wires sheathed in lead, were discovered by scuba divers 12 years ago resting on the sandy lake bottom and, in places, bent around rocks. One long segment spans the West Shore from Baldwin Beach across the mouth of Emerald Bay up to Rubicon Bay  including through shallow areas where people swim and boat  and theres a separate strand inside the bay.

Three years ago, AT&T, which acquired the company believed to have installed the cables, entered into a consent decree to pay $1.5 million to remove them  an agreement lake lovers viewed as a victory and hoped wouldnt take more than a season or two to complete.

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But that agreement collapsed last year and the cables remain. Some locals and advocates believe they may be leaching trace amounts of toxic substances into the lake and potentially sullying a source of drinking water for thousands of nearby homes.

Now, a grassroots effort called Tahoe Lead Removal Project, formed by Tahoe homeowners, is intent on removing them. The group aims to obtain permits from seven separate entities overseeing the area and finance an extraction that could cost upwards of $2 million.

Every passing year increases the odds of contamination, said Evan Dreyer, lead organizer of Tahoe Lead Removal Project. This is a multigenerational issue, and we want these cables removed.

About 6 miles of defunct and abandoned lead-lined telephone cables are sitting on the bottom of Lake Tahoe. Tahoe Lead Removal Project

The cables are thought to have been originally laid by Bell Systems, a company AT&T acquired decades later through a series of mergers. After their discovery, the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance, a nonprofit advocacy group, sued AT&T to have them removed.

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AT&T had completed plans to extract the cables with an expectation the work would be completed last year. Then last year the effort came to a halt.

In a written statement provided to the Chronicle, AT&T attributed its delay to a blitz of news reports triggered by a Wall Street Journal investigation published last summer. According to the article, AT&T, Verizon and other telecom giants have left behind a sprawling network of cables covered in toxic lead that stretches across the U.S., under the water, in the soil and on poles overhead.

Water samples taken near the Tahoe cables showed traces of lead at 2,533 times the Environmental Protection Agencys permissible limit for drinking water, according to the Journal article.

AT&T disputes those findings and said tests and analysis the company has commissioned have confirmed that the cables in Lake Tahoe are safe and pose no threat to public health or the environment. Litigation between the company and the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance is continuing.

Evan Dreyer started the Tahoe Lead Removal Project to rally homeowners around the cause of extracting the lead cables. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

Dreyer said concerns about the fate of the cables bubbled up among West Shore homeowners last year once they realized that AT&Ts intent to remove them could be hindered by protracted legal battles. If AT&T were to extract them from Tahoe, some believe, the company might be obligated to remove old service lines nationwide.

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Thats when it became clear that we were going to try to do this, Dreyer said. His group is not involved in the litigation and doesnt blame AT&T or any other party for the cables, he said. Regardless of whether the cables are actively leaching into the water, we should get these out before it becomes a problem.

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This year, Dreyer has gone door to door to raise awareness, asking Tahoe homeowners to sign an online petition and garnering pledges for donations to pay for a removal. More than 500 people have signed.

He has also been meeting with the government agencies and regulators whose approvals hed need. Because AT&T had already gained permits, Dreyer is effectively piggybacking on the companys approved plans with his own proposals. Were grateful for all the work AT&T has done to set this in motion, Dreyer said.

About 6 miles of underwater lead-lined extend from Baldwin Beach, shown here, up Tahoes West Shore to Rubicon Bay. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

So far, officials have been supportive, Dreyer said, including the California Department of Parks and Recreation, which oversees Emerald Bay.

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Were aligned with Evan and his organization, said Rob Griffith, superintendent of the departments Sierra District. Anybody and everybody who wants to help keep Lake Tahoe clean and address issues that are of big concern to the community, we support. Well do everything we can to help expedite this process.

Griffith doesnt believe the cables pose much of a physical hazard to boaters or visitors, but said their presence is a blemish on Emerald Bay, which he called Tahoes crown jewel.

Dreyer said the continuing legal battle over the cables raises uncertainty about how far hell be able to push the project. Thats one of the biggest open questions  whether wed be able to proceed when that hasnt been resolved, he said.

But the lakes wellbeing shouldnt be subject to corporate agendas or legal arguments, Dreyer said, so hes forging ahead.

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What happened

Proofpoint recently identified a cluster of activity conducting malicious email campaigns using piano-themed messages to lure people into advance fee fraud (AFF) scams. The campaigns have occurred since at least January 2024, and are ongoing. Most of the messages target students and faculty at colleges and universities in North America, however other targeting of industries including healthcare and food and beverage services was also observed. Proofpoint observed at least 125,000 messages so far this year associated with the piano scam campaigns cluster.

In the campaigns, the threat actor purports to offer up a free piano, often due to alleged circumstances like a death in the family. When a target replies, the actor instructs them to contact a shipping company to arrange delivery. That contact address will also be a fake email managed by the same threat actor. The shipping company then claims they will send the piano if the recipient sends them the money for shipping first.

Lure email purporting to be giving away a free piano.

Proofpoint

Shipping options provided by the fake shipping company.

Proofpoint

The actor requests payment via multiple options including Zelle, Cash App, PayPal, Apple Pay, or cryptocurrency. The actor also attempts to collect personally identifiable information (PII) from the user including names, physical addresses, and phone numbers.

Proofpoint identified at least one Bitcoin wallet address the piano scam fraudsters directed payment to. At the time of this writing, it contained over $900,000 in transactions. It is likely that multiple threat actors are conducting numerous different types of scams concurrently using the same wallet address given the volume of transactions, the variations in transaction prices, and overall amount of money associated with the account.

While the email body content of the messages is similar, the sender addresses vary. Typically, the actors use freemail email accounts, usually with some combination of names and numbers. Most of the campaigns include multiple variations on the email content and contact addresses.

Attribution

To obtain more information about the fraudsters, researchers started a discussion with the actors and convinced them to interact with a researcher-managed redirect service. Proofpoint was able to identify at least one perpetrators IP address and device information. Based on the information obtained, researchers assess with high confidence that at least one part of the operation is based in Nigeria.

Screenshot of a part of a conversation between a researcher and threat actor.

Proofpoint

Advance Fee Fraud (AFF), which in the past has been referred to as 419, Nigerian 419, or Nigerian Prince email fraud, occurs when a threat actor asks the potential victim for a small amount of money in advance of a larger, promised payout to be given to the victim at a later date. There are endless variations of this type of fraud. Typical schemes contain elaborate stories that explain why there is a large sum of money, job opportunity, or other goods or services available to the victim and why the sender needs a small upfront or advanced fee before the victim gets the promised money or goods. The fraudsters often bait victims with subjects such as inheritance, awards, government payouts, and international business.

Once the victim provides the small amount of money to the fraudster, however, they cut all contact and disappear.

Why it matters

Proofpoint has previously published research on AFF campaigns using a variety of different themes to entice recipients to engage with them, including employment opportunities targeting university students and cryptocurrency fraud. In all cases, AFF relies on elaborate social engineering and the use of multiple different payment platforms. People should be aware of the common techniques used by threat actors and remember that if an unsolicited email sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Indicators of compromise
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Lets start with the facts. Keir Starmer is right. The overwhelming majority of the violence and disorder we have seen on Britains streets is being perpetrated, organised and provoked by the Far-Right.

Yesterday I spoke to politicians from both the present and previous government. They had been in contact with senior police officers currently in the front line of dealing with the disturbances. And they were in agreement.

The thing that has alarmed the police is the scale of coordination over the disorder, a Home Office minister told me. These arent just spontaneous outbreaks of violence. Its right-wing extremists, and its very highly organised.

A man with a Swastika tattoo attends a Far-Right protest in Sunderland this week

Whats caught everyone by surprise is the speed with which its being spread on social media, a Conservative former minister revealed, especially the disinformation.

The police are really alarmed by it. Its unprecedented in this country.

Home Office officials believe that as hundreds of the perpetrators are processed through the courts over the coming days, the links between the rioters and Far-Right extremist groups will be even more firmly established. To see the evidence of this, however, you need look no further than the footage of the fire-scarred Holiday Inn in Tamworth. And in particular the Get out, F**k P**is and England graffiti daubed on the wall.

But if were going to face up squarely to who is perpetrating the racist violence disfiguring our nation, we also have to confront another reality. Which is that racist extremism does not emerge from, or flourish within, a vacuum.

To reappropriate Tony Blairs famous phrase, being tough on Far-Right extremism is not enough. We also have to be tough on the causes of Far-Right extremism.

And that has to start by looking at the purchase the Far-Right now have amongst some elements of the white-white working class. We have all seen the footage of the burly man walking proudly through the streets of Sunderland sporting his Swastika tattoo. And over the past week he has not been walking alone.

The vast majority of working people will have no truck with violence. But my family came from Birkenhead in north-west England. My grandmother was a barmaid, and my grandfather a brickie who served in the Navy during the war. Any man who had tried walking down their street with a Swastika wouldnt have made it to the end of the road.

But today, on many similar streets to the one they lived on, the Far-Right are able to operate and agitate freely. And we need to understand why.

One factor is clearly social depravation. Poverty gives non-one an excuse to torch police stations, or attack a migrant. But if you look at where the riots are taking place, there is geographic synergy.

During the election I visited Jeremy Hunts constituency in Godalming, and went canvassing with him. The single biggest issue to arise on the doorstep was the small boats.

A man in Belfast appears to raise his hand in a Nazi salute in front of police officers during an anti-immigration rally

A masked protester raises his arms outside Leeds Town Hall. The protesters were allegedly organised as a response to the killings in Southport

But we will not see widespread rioting in Surrey. Or any of Britains other more affluent areas. Because social injustice is the food upon which the Far-Right feeds.

We can put in place whatever proscriptions we like. But there is no way of effectively confronting the racists extremists if we cannot finally bring into alignment our mainstream politicians promises on immigration, the policies they actually deliver and the wishes of the British people.

People constantly opine we need an open and honest debate about immigration. We dont. Weve been debating immigration ad nauseum since the 1950s. The view of the majority is clear. They want legal immigration controlled and reduced, and they want illegal immigration eradicated. Thats it. The responsibility of politicians is now to stop talking about it, and deliver it.

There are other issues. The use and abuse of social media. Senior politicians like Nigel Farage have, in my view, stoked unrest in the wake of Southport, and acted as the Far-Rights unwitting recruiting sergeants. The way our police have been neutered to the extent they are no longer capable of asserting their authority in public order situations.

But the sterile debate we have seen over the past few days - in which some have sought to deflect from and minimise the role of the Far-Right, and others have attempted to overlook the conditions and factors that allow to flourish - must end. This isnt hard. When people with Swastikas are burning migrants out of hotels we dont scratch our chins and say hmmmm, its a bit complicated. We call them out for what they are: Far-Right, racist extremists.

But condemnation is not enough. In the days to come we are going to have to burrow deep, and dig that racism and extremism out by its roots.

Tough on Far-Right extremists. Tough on the causes of Far-Right extremism. That is the way  the only way  to reclaim our streets, our communities and our country.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway's son was arrested after a serious incident on Sunday night.

Marius Borg Hiby, 27, has spent more than 30 hours in custody after an incident in an apartment in Frogner, Oslo - where a woman in her 20s called the police.

According to Se og Hr, Mette-Marit's eldest son, whose father is Morten Borgan step-father is heir to the Norwegian throne Crown Prince Haakon, allegedly attacked the woman 'psychologically and physically'.

The Norwegian publication reported Marius faces preliminary charges of 'bodily violation' and 'damage', after the apartment appeared to have been 'destroyed' when police arrived.

In Norway, preliminary charges are issued at the point of arrest.

The woman was taken to hospital where she was diagnosed with a concussion before being released in the early hours of Monday morning.

Marius Borg Hiby, 27, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway from a previous relationship, has been charged with assault after a woman was left in hospital with concussion

The publication reported Borg Hiby was put in solitary confinement and a blood test was taken to find out if he was under the influence of drugs.

Marius Borg Hiby is the eldest child of Mette-Marit, who was a single mother when she met Crown Prince Haakon (who is the son of King Harald and Queen Sonja) through mutual friends in 1999.

Police told Se og Hr: 'A person was arrested and charged with assault and later released from custody.'

The apartment where the incident took place appeared to have been destroyed, according to Norwegian tabloid Dagbladet.

The 27-year-old is now said to be at the royal Skaugum estate with his 50-year-old mother.

Mette-Marit was supposed to be attending the men's 1500-metre final at the Paris Olympics last night, however Crown Prince Haakon appeared in the stands alone.

Speaking to Norwegian reporters from the tournament, Haakon said: 'It is a serious matter when the police are involved in the way they are, but at the same time it is not right for me to go into the details of the case.'

The Norwegian Palace has confirmed to local media that the Crown Princess has decided to 'temporarily postpone' her trip.

'The Crown Princess has temporarily postponed her departure and hopes to travel down later', the Palace's communications chief wrote in a text message to Se og Hr.

yvind Bratlien, who has expertise in high-profile criminal cases, has been hired by Marius Borg Hiby as his defense lawyer.

In a statement to Se og Hr, Bratlien said: 'The charge concerns assault, which under the law is the least severe form of violence. Neither my client nor I have been informed of the full details of the case, and he has not yet given a statement, on my advice.

The police's security service (PST), which is responsible for the security of the royal family, confirmed to Nettavisen that they are aware of the incident.

Marius Borg Hiby, 27, (left) has spent more than 30 hours in custody after an incident in an apartment in Frogner, Oslo - where a woman in her 20's called the police (pictured with Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Crown Prince Haakon and the Crown Princess in 2022)

Mette-Marit was supposed to be attending the men's 1500-metre final at the Paris Olympics last night, however Crown Prince Haakon (centre) appeared in the stands alone

Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway's son Marius Borg Hiby was arrested after a serious incident on Sunday night

Norway's Princess Ingrid Alexandra (front C) poses for a family photo with (front L and R) Norway's King Harald V and Norway's Queen Sonja and (back LtoR) Marit Tjessem, Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Norway's Crown Prince Haakon, Norway's Prince Sverre Magnus and Marius Borg Hoiby on the occasion of a gala dinner for her 18th birthday in Oslo in 2022

Marius previously dated London-based former Playboy model Juliane Snekkstad in 2019

When he turned 20 the royal court announced he was stepping away from public life and his profile was removed from the family's official website

'We can confirm that PST was informed shortly after the incident. But we do not want to comment on the case further and we refer the Oslo police district for statements', said Martin Bernsen, senior adviser in PST, to the newspaper.

According to Lovdata, the Norwegian foundation which publishes judicial information, bodily harm can be punished 'with a fine or imprisonment of up to one year, anyone who commits violence against another person or physically violates him in any other way is punished'.

If the charge is extended to grievous bodily harm the penalty can be up to six years in prison.

Growing up, he made public appearances with his mother, stepfather and half sister Ingrid Alexandra (who is the future queen of Norway) and half brother Prince Sverre Magnus on occasions such as national day.

However, when he turned 20 the royal court announced he was stepping away from public life and his profile was removed from the family's official website.

'Hiby will not conduct any official activities on the Royal Family's behalf,' a statement said, 'on the basis of his wish to live outside the public eye'.

His mother Crown Princess Mette-Marit also published an open letter on the court website, saying: 'Marius is, and will continue to be, a vital member of our family.'

'He has always had a public role that has been very difficult to define.'

'Unlike his siblings, he has no official duties. He won't have a public role and is not a public person.'

'Marius became a symbol for the unusual choice we made when we married.'

Marius was previously linked to heiress Linn Helena Nilsen, but the couple split in July 2017.

Femail has contacted the Norwegian royal palace for comment.

Crown Prince Haakon appeared unfazed as he attended an equestrian event in Paris on Tuesday, after his stepson had been arrested and charged

Despite controversy at home, the Crown Prince smiled as he was pictured watching events with Prince Albert of Monaco

The incident threatens to overshadow what should be a happy time for the Norwegian royal family as Princess Martha Louise, Crown Prince Haakon's older sister, is set to marry her husband, 'Shaman' Durek Verrett, on August 31 at the Union Hotel in Geirangerfjord.

The couple's relationship has not been without controversy itself, as the Norwegian royal, who had been the heir to the throne following stepped down as a working member of the royal family following backlash over her partner's controversial views.

In November 2022, Martha Louise announced she would no longer be a working royal after the American shamanic healer's previous assertions came to light.

Among his deeply controversial and pseudoscientific opinions, published in a book called 'Spirit Hacking', were claims that children 'can get cancer from being unhappy'.

Durek has also claimed he once came back from the dead, recovering from a month-long coma, by letting his soul 'burn' and he has also spoken of having to undergo a kidney transplant from his sister as a child.

The incident comes just weeks before Crown Prince Haakon's sister, Princess Martha Louise, is set to marry American 'shaman' Durek Verrett

Official royal family photograph celebrating Crown Prince Haakon (Up 2nd L) 45th birthday with his family, while he poses beside Princess Martha Louise (Up L), Crown Princess Mette-Marit (Up C), Princess Ingrid Alexandra (2nd R), Maud Angelica Behn (R), (Bottom L-R) Prince Sverre Magnus, Queen Sonja and King Harald V, in July 2018

It is unclear why he needed the kidney or how he became wheelchair bound, as he has described. The illness which sent him into a coma is also undisclosed.

Princess Martha, whose first husband Ari Behn took his own life in December 2019, also claims to hold spiritual powers, and has previously recalled having what she says were 'psychic premonitions' when she was a child.

Speaking to the BBC last year, she said: 'When I was little I would see things in you. If you were sad or if you were happy... if you had a pain in your shoulder I would get a pain in my shoulder.

'And I understood that that's a talent and, you know, I could help other people. And that's when the whole ball started rolling.'

Princess Martha Louise and Ari Behn married in 2002 and have three children together Maud Angelica, Leah Isadora and Emma Tallulah

She also revealed she had decided to step down as a working royal so she could earn her own money; something she has since pursued through a podcast and touring the nation giving spiritual talks and holding workshops.

She added that, in Norway, spiritual beliefs like the ones she holds are 'taboo'.

After giving up her position in the royal family, the Princess revealed she has had to deal with 'lots of scrutiny' - particularly when she takes on new roles.

'Everything you do that's a first, that goes out of the box that you're put in,' she said, adding that press scrutiny has 'continued'.

The approach to the wedding has hardly been smooth sailing thus far as, following outrage in Norway over Verrett's views, the shamanic healer has been embroiled in a furious row with his estranged mother over claims she made in an interview with a Norwegian tabloid.

Last month, the couple confirmed they sent a cease-and-desist letter to Veruschka Urquhart, with Durek explaining on Instagram how they believe their decision is 'the only remaining option for change'.

He said his mother has 'repeatedly slandered our characters through false statements showing a significant lack of care and love towards Martha, myself, and our respective families'.

In interviews with celebrity magazine Se og Hr, Veruschka has labelled her son 'dangerous', alleging that he had 'brainwashed' the princess and that their family was not as wealthy as Durek has tried to make out.

The publication claimed on Thursday to be sharing the 'shock letter, word for word', in which Martha has reportedly threatened her future mother-in-law with a multimillion-dollar lawsuit, if she does not retract what she has said.

The letter from 'Shaman Durek and Princess Martha Louise' allegedly reads: 'We are writing to order you to refrain from defaming, disparaging and making false and provocative statements about Shaman Durek.

'If you do not fully and loyally comply with this order, and choose not to deny your statements, Shaman Durek will use the civil remedies at his disposal against you to the extent possible under the law, including seeking damages of millions of dollars. To put it plainly, Shaman Durek will sue you.'
The official Bavarian royal family Instagram confirmed the happy news

Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and his wife Sophie-Alexandra Evekink have welcomed their first child.

The royal couple announced they'd welcomed a baby boy on Tuesday in an Instagram post and also revealed his sweet name.

Ludwig, 42, and Sophie, 33, married in Munich in May 2023, where she made headlines for fainting while exchanging their vows.

An official announcement on the Bavarian royal family's Instagram @hausbayern showed a meaningful illustration of a stork carrying a blue handkerchief by Alexandra Eltz.

In the caption, Ludwig and Sophie revealed they have named their firstborn Prince Rupprecht, thought to be after his great-great grandfather Crown Prince Rupprecht, the eldest child of Ludwig III and last King of Bavaria who died in 1955.

Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and his wife Sophie-Alexandra Evekink have welcomed their first child

The post read: 'Princess Sophie and Prince Ludwig of Bavaria are delighted to announce the birth of their first child.

'Prince Rupprecht Theodor Maria was born on August 6, 2024 in Munich.

'Mother and child are in excellent health, the young family are now enjoying their first days together.'

The name Rupprecht translates from the German as 'bright' and 'fame'.

Royal fans rushed to express their congratulations at the happy news, writing: 'Congratulations to Prince Ludwig and Princess Sophie, Welcome to the world Prince Rupprecht';

'Warmest congratulations and all the very best to the little one and his parents';

'Congratulations to the parents and the Wittelsbach house.'

Sophie's pregnancy was first announced back in March when she gave a lecture at the United Nations.

An official announcement on the Bavarian royal family 's Instagram @hausbayern showed a sweet illustration of a stork carrying a blue handkerchief by Alexandra Eltz

Ludwig, 42, and Sophie, 33, married in Munich in May 2023 , where she made headlines for fainting while exchanging their vows

The royal revealed the news by saying she wouldn't be able to take part in the annual Lowenmarsh (Lion's March) fundraising run, as it was too close to her due date.

A spokesperson for the House of Bavaria then confirmed the news to German paper Augsburger Allgemeine.

The Kingdom of Bavaria was abolished in the German Revolution of 1918 following World War I, but the royal family has ceremoniously continued.

The new baby is fourth in line to the throne behind his father, as the crown is only passed down to male descendants of the House of Wittelsbach.

The current head of the House is Franz, Duke of Bavaria, and his heir presumptive is his brother, Prince Max. Third in line is Ludwig's father Prince Luitpold.

Ludwig is the eldest son of Prince Luitpold and the great-great grandson of Bavaria's last King Ludwig III, while Sophie was born in Singapore to a Dutch-Canadian family.

The couple married at St Kajetan in Munich last year, where hundreds of people lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the bride.

Sophie looked beautiful in a classic white dress, with floral detailing on the princess-cut skirt and sheer long sleeves.

Prince Ludwig of Bayern, Sophie-Alexandra Evekink at St. Kajetan (Theatinerkirche) in Munich

Sophie looked beautiful in a classic white dress, with floral detailing on the princess-cut skirt and sheer long sleeves

Prince Ludwig of Bavaria, born in 1982, is the eldest son of Princess Beatrix and Prince Luitpold of Bavaria

She completed her elegant bridal ensemble with a long veil, which was also decorated with a scattering of lace delicate flowers - matching her gown.

But the ceremony did not go down without a hitch, as the blushing bride was said to have fainted as vows were being exchanged, necessitating rescue by her new husband.

One guest told German publication Bild: 'The bride fell backwards, the groom caught her.

'The groomsmen rushed over. We are glad that she felt well again straight away!'

A spokesperson for the royal confirmed that Sophie had passed out for a moment during the ceremony and that Ludwig had swooped in to catch her.

They added: 'The maid of honours rushed over, paramedics brought her water.

'She felt well again straight away. Prince Leopold of Bavaria gave her a piece of glucose.'

Rumours had started mounting that the pair were set to marry after she was spotted wearing a large emerald ring on her engagement finger at a wedding the couple attended in August 2022.

Sophie-Alexandra Evekink and her partner Prince Ludwig von Bayern during the book presentation for "Zuschauer in der ersten Reihe" by Franz Herzog von Bayern in April 2023

It is not known how or when Prince Ludwig met his future wife Sophie, who also has a high powered career of her own

Speaking to Germany's Bild newspaper, Prince Luitpold said he hoped the couple would 'start a family soon', adding: 'Ludwig made a good choice. My future daughter-in-law is a very intelligent and educated woman.'

News of their engagement was shared by Office of the Bavarian Royal House a week later, alongside pictures of the couple in which they can be seen posing in traditional outfits.

Prince Ludwig, whose parents are Prince Luitpold and Princess Beatrix, is the eldest of five siblings.

He spent much of his childhood at Schloss Kaltenberg, and attended the Rhabanus-Maurus-Gymnasium St. Ottilien in Eresing.

As an 18-year-old, he founded his own IT company before he went on to study law in Gottingen, where he focused on human rights.

Since 2011, he has also shown a great interest in East Africa and specifically Kenya.

In 2015, he founded Startup Lions, which is described online as a 'digital empowerment program, providing opportunities to learn, earn and innovate for young adults in rural Kenya.'

He now serves as CEO of the company, and spends ten months of the year in East Africa and two months in Bavaria.

Criminology PHD student Sophie-Alexandra looked beautiful in a classic white dress, with floral detailing on the princess-cut skirt and sheer long sleeves

Sophie-Alexandra wore her hair half up, with the rest in ringlet curls around her shoulders, and had a beautiful diamond, botanical head piece in her flowing locks

While in the country, the royal is also already very involved in his family and regularly accompanies his father to public events.

It is not known how or when Prince Ludwig met his future wife Sophie, who also has a high powered career of her own.

She is the daughter of Dorus Evekink, who works as a lecturer at Maastricht School of Business.

The student, who has dual Dutch/Canadian citizen, has a Bachelor's degree in Politics and East European Studies from University College London (UCL) and a Masters in Science from the University of Oxford.

She is currently working towards a PhD at University of Oxford which focuses on justice for victims of conflict-related sexual violence.

She previously worked for seven years in New York at the United Nations in various roles.

According to an online biography of the future royal, Sophie 'has a keen interest in violence prevention and women's human rights, themes on which she has conducted research in the Middle East and Caucasus, as well as a passion for efforts which help build global consensus and bridge voices of the Global North and South.

'She has previously also written on terrorism and radicalisation, and human trafficking in Central and Eastern Europe.'
Experts judged the whisky at Glasgow's Pot Still Bar - see full results below

It's official - Japanese whisky has been declared better than Scotch.

Industry experts blind-tasted five examples of whisky from both countries - with Japan receiving the most votes in three out of five rounds.

The event, which has been nicknamed the 'Judgement of Glasgow', took place in the city's Pot Still Bar, owned by the Murphy family.

The drinks were judged based on five categories: Single malt under 100; a single malt over 100; a blended whisky; a wildcard round; and a whisky highball.

And in a result that will likely horrify any Scot, Japan managed to seal a shock victory.

Japanese whisky has beaten Scotch at a landmark tasting in Glasgow's Pot Still Bar

The five judges included whisky writer Dave Broom, head buyer at The Whisky Exchange Dawn Davis, owner of The Heart Cut Georgie Bell, founder of Lyaness Ryan Chetiyawardana and founder of The Curious Bartender, Tristan Stephenson.

In the whisky highball round, Japan's Hakashu Single Malt gained five votes over Scotland's Arbikie 2017 Rye Berry Bros Collective.

The others weren't so clear cut, with Japan claiming three votes over Scotland's two in both single malt rounds.

And Scotland's 25-year-old Cutty Sark won the blended whisky round, while the country's 1,200 40-year-old Whyte & Mackay defeated the Hanyu #1386 Isetan 1991 Japanese Single Cask by four votes to one.

Fever-Tree organised the event, while The Pot Still provided the Scottish whisky and restaurant chain Sexy Fish provided the Japanese ones.

Japanese whisky is modelled after the traditional Scottish method but, unlike Scotch, it also reflects elements of American and Irish whiskey.

Masataka Taketsuru, known as the father of Japanese whisky, initially learned his craft on an apprenticeship in Scotland.

Despite growing competition, exports of Scotch are as strong as ever and reached 5.3billion in 2023.

But the Japanese whisky industry is predicted to more than double between now and the 2030s.

Japan's Yamazaki Distillers Reserve (78.75) won the single malt round with three votes to two

But Scotland's Whyte & Mackay 40 Year Old (1,200) won with three votes to one in the wildcard round

Frank Lampen, Co-founder of Distill Ventures told FEMAIL: 'Japanese whisky owes much to Scotch, as the founding father of Japanese whisky learnt how to make whisky in Scotland and took that knowledge back to Japan.

'What the Japanese have done is to add in their own local touches. In some cases this is using a local type of oak known as mizunara that adds a unique flavour profile.

'In others  like the recently launched Kanosuke Whisky  traditional whisky techniques from Scotland are combined with those learnt from a century of making the Japanese spirit shochu and this introduces new flavour elements you don't find in many Scotches.

'In both countries you will find both single malts  made from malted barley in a single distillery, and blends  a combination of different whiskies which are perfectly combined by a master blender.

'We're also seeing Japan start to match the regional differences you find in Scotland. As Scotch has Islay, Speyside and other regions, Japan now produces excellent whiskies from Hokkaido up in the north, with its cold winters, down to Kagoshima in the far southwest, with its warm sub-tropical climate.

'While the different styles in Scotland are long-established, Japan is currently a centre of innovation and experimentation, with many new distilleries across the country starting to release a range of interesting whiskies.'

Industry experts blind-tasted five examples of whisky from both countries - with Japan receiving the most votes in three out of five rounds

Helen McKenzie-Smith, co-founder of Lindores Abbey Distillery in Scotland, added that while all Scotch whisky must be distilled in Scotland, Japanese whisky can be produced anywhere.

Helen says the production process in Japan differs due to the higher altitude, meaning the distilling process occurs at a lower pressure, creating a lighter spirit.

She told FEMAIL: 'The Japanese have been and continue to be very innovative. In the early days it was more like emulating Scotch Whisky, but their industry has matured and they follow their own rules and make some very good whiskies indeed.

'I think the newer younger whisky drinkers are very keen to explore new territories and flavours. It has been a slow burn in that thirty years ago there was a lot of snobbery, and the mistaken belief was that single malts are by definition better than blends.

'However, theres room for us all now - England, Scotland, France, Japan, theyre all good and right now the sun is shining on the Japanese, who knows where next?

Scotch whisky must be made in Scotland and is a source of pride for the country

Helen McKenzie-Smith, co-founder of Lindores Abbey Distillery in Scotland (pictured), added that while all Scotch whisky must be distilled in Scotland, Japanese whisky can be produced anywhere

'Like the Japanese, us Scots need to move forward and innovate using different cask types, barley strains and methodology to stay relevant for todays younger whisky drinkers.'

It's not the first time that Scotch has seen itself shunned. In March, an English whisky was named the Best Single malt in the world, shocking spirit lovers worldwide.

The English Sherry Cask whisky, made in a Norfolk distillery, beat stiff international competition, including Scotlands finest, in the World Whisky Awards.

Japan beat Scotland in the whisky stakes once more in 2014, as a whisky from the Far East was branded 'the best in the world'.

Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 was given the title by Jim Murrays Whisky Bible - which describes the drink as a work of near incredible genius.
Norway's Royal Household has been rocked by the news that Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son was arrested after a serious incident on Sunday night.

Marius Borg Hiby, 27, the stepson of the heir to the Norwegian throne, Crown Prince Haakon, is under suspicion for causing bodily harm and criminal damage, Oslo police said Wednesday.

But the royal shock hasn't deterred Princess Martha Louise, 52, and her controversial self-professed shaman fiance Durek Verrett, 49, from continuing the buzz around their big day, set to be the royal wedding of the year.

Taking to his Instagram Stories today, Durek shared a friend's photo of him and his glamorous soon-to-be wife posing with pals, alongside the caption: 'Count down to the wedding'.

Martha Louise also took to her social media account to promote the latest episode of her podcast Heartsmart Conversations, in which her fiance made an appearance as they discussed the upcoming nuptials taking place later this month in Norway.

Princess Martha Louise, 52, and her controversial self-professed shaman fiance Durek Verrett, 49, have continued to add to the buzz around their big day, set to be the royal wedding of the year

Referring to the 'big wedding', Durek said in the podcast: 'To me marriage isn't just you getting married to someone, it is literally an act before God, that I am merging my life with her children, with her family, with my family, and really showing up.

'That's something that I really love about myself, I love that I'm the type of man that shows up. I love being able to show up for her, I love showing up for her kids, and I love how my family shows up for her, and I love how her family shows up for me.

'It's a beautiful relationship. Everyone is loving each other. It's a beautiful, beautiful expression of what family should be, and what love should be.

'And I would not have asked for her hand in marriage, if I hadn't known in my soul that I'm going to spend the rest of my life with this woman and live every single breath I have to make her happy.'

Martha Louise added: 'We're looking very much forward to our wedding... which is not far away right now.

'It's really going to be nice for me because I have so much love for Norway... I'm just really excited about all my friends coming from all over the world to this wedding, not just to witness our love but to also witness Norway,' continued Durek.

But their social media posts come after Marius Borg Hiby, the son of Mette-Marit from a previous relationship, was arrested at the weekend on suspicion of assaulting a woman, police said on Wednesday.

Police said they were called to an Oslo address early Sunday after an overnight altercation in an apartment.

Marius Borg Hiby (pictured with Prince Haakon of Norway), 27, the stepson of the heir to the Norwegian throne, Crown Prince Haakon, is under suspicion for causing bodily harm and criminal damage, Oslo police said Wednesday

Martha Louise also took to her social media account to promote the latest episode (pictured) of her podcast Heartsmart Conversations, in which her fiance made an appearance as they discussed the upcoming nuptials taking place later this month in Norway

A man in his 20s was arrested over the incident and released from custody the following day, police said in a statement.

'As it has been made known in several media that this (person) is Marius Borg Hiby, the police confirm that it is Hiby who is a suspect in the case.'

Police said he was suspected of causing 'bodily harm and damage'. They did not identify the woman, saying only there was 'relationship between the accused and the victim'.

Hiby faces preliminary charges of bodily harm and criminal damage, one stage short of formal charges.

Police said they had 'no information that the victim suffered serious injuries'. The apartment where the incident took place appeared to have been destroyed, according to Norwegian tabloid Dagbladet.

While Hiby was raised by Mette-Marit and Haakon together with his step-siblings, 20-year-old Princess Ingrid Alexandra and 18-year-old Prince Sverre Magnus, unlike them he has no official public role.

The case was top news in Norway where the royals are popular.

Norwegian news agency NTB said that Mette-Marit had postponed a planned trip to attend the Olympic Games in Paris while her husband Haakon traveled to the French capital. The reason for the postponement was not given.

The Norwegian Palace confirmed to local media that the Crown Princess has decided to 'temporarily postpone' her trip.

Norway's Royal Household has been rocked by the news that Crown Princess Mette-Marit 's son was arrested after a serious incident on Sunday night (pictured with Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Crown Prince Haakon and the Crown Princess in 2022)

Mette-Marit was supposed to be attending the men's 1500-metre final at the Paris Olympics last night, however Crown Prince Haakon (centre) appeared in the stands alone

Norway's Princess Ingrid Alexandra (front C) poses for a family photo with (front L and R) Norway's King Harald V and Norway's Queen Sonja and (back LtoR) Marit Tjessem, Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Norway's Crown Prince Haakon, Norway's Prince Sverre Magnus and Marius Borg Hoiby on the occasion of a gala dinner for her 18th birthday in Oslo in 2022

'The Crown Princess has temporarily postponed her departure and hopes to travel down later', the Palace's communications chief wrote in a text message to Se og Hr.

In Paris, Haakon told Norwegian reporters that 'it is a serious matter when the police are involved in the way they are, but at the same time it is not right for me to go into the details of the case.'

The 27-year-old is now said to be at the royal Skaugum estate with his 50-year-old mother.

yvind Bratlien, who has expertise in high-profile criminal cases, has been hired by Marius Borg Hiby as his defence lawyer.

In a statement to Se og Hr, Bratlien said: 'The charge concerns assault, which under the law is the least severe form of violence.

'Neither my client nor I have been informed of the full details of the case, and he has not yet given a statement, on my advice.'

The police's security service (PST), which is responsible for the security of the royal family, confirmed to Nettavisen that they are aware of the incident.

'We can confirm that PST was informed shortly after the incident. But we do not want to comment on the case further and we refer the Oslo police district for statements', said Martin Bernsen, senior adviser in PST, to the newspaper.

Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway's son Marius Borg Hiby was arrested after a serious incident on Sunday night

Marius previously dated London-based former Playboy model Juliane Snekkstad in 2019

When he turned 20 the royal court announced he was stepping away from public life and his profile was removed from the family's official website

Official royal family photograph celebrating Crown Prince Haakon (Up 2nd L) 45th birthday with his family, while he poses beside Princess Martha Louise (Up L), Crown Princess Mette-Marit (Up C), Princess Ingrid Alexandra (2nd R), Maud Angelica Behn (R), (Bottom L-R) Prince Sverre Magnus, Queen Sonja and King Harald V, in July 2018

According to Lovdata, the Norwegian foundation which publishes judicial information, bodily harm can be punished 'with a fine or imprisonment of up to one year, anyone who commits violence against another person or physically violates him in any other way is punished'.

If the charge is extended to grievous bodily harm the penalty can be up to six years in prison.

Growing up, Hiby made public appearances with his mother, stepfather and half sister Ingrid Alexandra (who is the future queen of Norway) and half brother Prince Sverre Magnus on occasions such as national day.

However, when he turned 20 the royal court announced he was stepping away from public life and his profile was removed from the family's official website.

'Hiby will not conduct any official activities on the Royal Family's behalf,' a statement said, 'on the basis of his wish to live outside the public eye.'

His mother Crown Princess Mette-Marit also published an open letter on the court website, saying: 'Marius is, and will continue to be, a vital member of our family. He has always had a public role that has been very difficult to define.'

'Unlike his siblings, he has no official duties. He won't have a public role and is not a public person. Marius became a symbol for the unusual choice we made when we married.'

Marius was previously linked to heiress Linn Helena Nilsen, but the couple split in July 2017.

The incident comes just weeks before Crown Prince Haakon's sister, Princess Martha Louise, is set to marry American 'shaman' Durek Verrett

Norway's Princess Martha Louise and her fiance Durek Verrett (pictured together) issued a cease-and-desist letter to his estranged 81-year-old mother and reportedly threatened legal action over her 'slander' and 'false statements'

Femail has contacted the Norwegian royal palace for comment.

The incident threatens to overshadow what should be a happy time for the Norwegian royal family as Princess Martha Louise, Crown Prince Haakon's older sister, is set to marry her husband, 'Shaman' Durek Verrett, on August 31 at the Union Hotel in Geirangerfjord.

The couple's relationship has not been without controversy itself, as the Norwegian princess stepped down as a working member of the royal family following backlash over her partner's controversial views.

In November 2022, Martha Louise announced she would no longer be a working royal after the American shamanic healer's previous assertions came to light.

Among his deeply controversial and pseudoscientific opinions, published in a book called 'Spirit Hacking', were claims that children 'can get cancer from being unhappy'.

Durek has also claimed he once came back from the dead, recovering from a month-long coma, by letting his soul 'burn' and he has also spoken of having to undergo a kidney transplant from his sister as a child.

It is unclear why he needed the kidney or how he became wheelchair bound, as he has described. The illness which sent him into a coma is also undisclosed.

Princess Martha, whose first husband Ari Behn took his own life in December 2019, also claims to hold spiritual powers, and has previously recalled having what she says were 'psychic premonitions' when she was a child.

The couple (pictured in June 2022) have had a tumultuous few years after the princess, who claims to be a clairvoyant, stepped down from royal duties over Verrett's pseudoscientific views

Speaking to the BBC last year, she said: 'When I was little I would see things in you. If you were sad or if you were happy... if you had a pain in your shoulder I would get a pain in my shoulder.

'And I understood that that's a talent and, you know, I could help other people. And that's when the whole ball started rolling.'

She also revealed she had decided to step down as a working royal so she could earn her own money; something she has since pursued through a podcast and touring the nation giving spiritual talks and holding workshops.

She added that, in Norway, spiritual beliefs like the ones she holds are 'taboo'.

After giving up her position in the royal family, the Princess revealed she has had to deal with 'lots of scrutiny' - particularly when she takes on new roles.

'Everything you do that's a first, that goes out of the box that you're put in,' she said, adding that press scrutiny has 'continued'.

The approach to the wedding has hardly been smooth sailing thus far, with the bride and groom embroiled in a furious row with Durek's estranged mother over claims she made in an interview with a Norwegian tabloid.

Last month, the couple confirmed they sent a cease-and-desist letter to Veruschka Urquhart, with Durek explaining on Instagram how they believe their decision is 'the only remaining option for change'.

He said his mother has 'repeatedly slandered our characters through false statements showing a significant lack of care and love towards Martha, myself, and our respective families'.

In interviews with celebrity magazine Se og Hr, Veruschka has labelled her son 'dangerous', alleging that he had 'brainwashed' the princess and that their family was not as wealthy as Durek has tried to make out.

Princess Martha Louise and Ari Behn married in 2002 and have three children together Maud Angelica, Leah Isadora and Emma Tallulah

Princess Martha Louise and her first husband Ari Behn attend the wedding of Prince Carl Philip and Sofia Hellqvist in June 2015 - before Ari's death four years later

The publication claimed to be sharing the 'shock letter, word for word', in which Martha has reportedly threatened her future mother-in-law with a multimillion-dollar lawsuit, if she does not retract what she has said.

The letter from 'Shaman Durek and Princess Martha Louise' allegedly reads: 'We are writing to order you to refrain from defaming, disparaging and making false and provocative statements about Shaman Durek.

'If you do not fully and loyally comply with this order, and choose not to deny your statements, Shaman Durek will use the civil remedies at his disposal against you to the extent possible under the law, including seeking damages of millions of dollars. To put it plainly, Shaman Durek will sue you.'

The princess's manager reportedly confirmed to newspaper VG that the letter was sent from the royal and her partner.

Following the news, Editor-in-chief of Se og Hr Ulf Andre Andersen wrote a comment piece calling for King Harald to 'take action'.

In the text, translated from Norwegian to English, the editor wrote: 'The title of princess is dignified and hangs high in a strong monarchy.

'But now is definitely the time for a family council. The result must be one of two - either Martha herself allows the title to remain at the Castle, or the king puts his foot down for her.'

Norwegian online newspaper Nettavisen's royal expert, Tove Taalesen, echoed this, saying: 'I think that King Harald and Crown Prince Haakon should distance themselves more from the princess and Durek, if that is how they are going to act in the future.'

The expert previously said: 'It is probably time to remove Princess Martha Louise's right of succession to the throne.'

It's not the first time calls have been made for Martha Louise to lose her title; the princess was noted to have broken her 'Megxit' agreement with the King seven times in less than two years.

Royal expert Trond Noren Isaksen told Aftenposten, one of Norway's largest printed newspapers: 'When the agreement is not respected, it is time to strike Martha Louise's princess title before King Harald's life's work takes further damage.'

The expert also noted: 'In October 2022, three different opinion polls showed that more than half wanted Martha Louise to give up the princess title, while less than a quarter wanted her to keep it.'

The article also revealed how a specially made gin from Oslo Handcraft Distillery for the wedding of Martha Louise and Durek Verrett had her princess title reportedly referenced on the label of the bottle and the brand's website.

Princess Martha's manager Carina Scheele Carlsen told Norwegian newspaper VG that it was apparently a 'mistake' to include the title and that it would be removed from the next batch of the bottles and the website.

But when asked by the publication why the royal used her Princess title in the letter to her soon-to-be mother-in-law, the manager claimed: 'Princess Martha Louise is her name in the national register, and must be used on legal documents such as this,' according to an English translation of the quote.

Following the reports about the letter, Durek took to Instagram to explain his reasoning, saying: 'I wanted to clarify Martha Louise's and my recent decision to issue a cease-and-desist letter to my mother, Veruschka.

'VGs research earlier this year has uncovered Veruschka being in a paid contract with Se og Hr, and she has, because of this contract, repeatedly slandered our characters through false statements showing a significant lack of care and love towards Martha, myself, and our respective families.

'The cease-and-desist letter directly addresses these issues and is a standard procedure in the United States when defamatory situations occur.

'Regrettably, we have found the cease-and-desist letter to be the only remaining option for change. We are sorry that it has come to this step. We see no other options.'

He continued in the post: 'Veruschka has been estranged from much of our family for a considerable period.

'As previously expressed in VG @vgnett, our family is deeply concerned for her mental health and well-being and has made numerous efforts to help her achieve a better quality of life.

'Unfortunately, she has rejected the guidance and support offered by most of her children, including myself. Instead of communicating with us as a family, she has chosen to go to the press with continuous fabrications.

'Her false claims about me are regrettably a ploy to secure a position with Se og Hr to support her livelihood.

'This estrangement extends to my younger brother Brandon and his family, my older sister Angelina and her family, Martha, and myself. Despite this, our family remains united in our stance against her actions.

'We hope this clarifies our position on this matter. Sincerely, Durek D. Verrett,' he concluded his post, in which he shared a picture of him and his partner, posing on a beach in sunglasses and vibrant outfits.
When I was around six years old, I went through an extended period of thinking life would be easier if I were a boy. Id get away with more mischief, I reasoned, and no one would think it odd that I liked climbing trees.

I only wanted to wear trousers and preferred cars and trains to dolls. What a relief my mum and dad raised no objection to it.

Of course I grew out of wanting to be a boy and became a proud woman  although Im still fond of trousers and cars. But had I grown up in the current climate of parents whove bought into the we can change her sex cult, what would have become of me?

This week is was revealed that a child under the age of five is on a waiting list for one of the new gender clinics set up in place of the disgraced and now closed Tavistock centre (file image)

When Jenni Murray was six she wanted to be a boy. She only wanted to wear trousers and preferred cars and trains to dolls, but she grew out of it and became a proud woman  although she's still fond of trousers and cars

I was reminded of this when I read this weeks news that a child under the age of five is on a waiting list for one of the new gender clinics set up in place of the disgraced and now closed Tavistock centre. What does a child of such youth and innocence know of sex and gender? Nothing. The parents of the child should have more sense.

The two new clinics, one at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, the other at Alder Hey Childrens Hospital in Liverpool, have been designed to offer holistic care to children struggling with their gender identity. They will include expertise in mental health, hormone and autism services.

The Tavistock was closed after a review by Dr Hilary Cass expressed concerns that the care it gave was unsafe. Children had been given untested and potentially dangerous treatments, including puberty blockers, which are now the subject of an emergency government ban thats in place for the NHS until September 3. There was also evidence teenagers had been prescribed cross sex hormones and been rushed into medical transition.

The waiting list for the new clinics is huge. New figures show more than 5,700 under 18s are waiting for an appointment to get help with their decision that they want to change gender.

The number of children being referred has risen exponentially in recent years, from fewer than 50 per year in 2009 to about 5,000 in 2021-22.

I have nothing but sympathy for a teenager who genuinely believes he or she wants to change sex, but what kind of GP rushes to refer a child under the age of five for medical treatment to change gender? Are there really parents who would find themselves in a panic because their son likes to pretend to cook supper on his sisters toy cooker and never misses an opportunity to put on her pretty frock?

Are there parents who cant bear the thought their daughter prefers diggers to dollies and wants to get her plaits cut off?

Hopefully since the Cass report has presented thorough evidence that much of the trend-led thinking around sex-change needed to be carefully examined, things will change for the better.

Cass noted that it was common for autism to be a factor for kids who sought help. Practitioners must have no fear theyll be accused of conversion therapy if they talk to a child and examine their motives.

Theres no doubt the huge rise in numbers on the waiting list needs close examination, too. Ashley Grossman, an endocrinologist with more than 40 years experience in the field, described the figures as deeply depressing and pointed to the lack of resources for mental health care for children.

The Emeritus Professor of Endocrinology at Oxford University added: There seems to have been a large rise in demand for these services, especially since the isolation and loss of schooling during the pandemic, so I suspect this is a much wider problem than for children with gender dysphoria alone. Where have kids learned about gender and the possibility of being born in the wrong body?

The pressure group Stonewall has been effective at pushing the trans agenda. And in schools teachers have been too afraid to challenge the inclusion of gender identity issues in lessons for fear of being branded transphobic.

Its hard now for a parent to accept that a young girl can think they would rather be a boy and that you could just go along with it until they move on to something else.

Since I first wrote in 2018 about my concerns over the rising power of Stonewalls transgender push, Ive been called a Terf, had speaking invitations cancelled and had death threats.

But I refuse to be threatened into silence because I have two great concerns. The protection of womens rights has been at the front of my mind, but even more important for me has been ensuring children dont get caught up in something that could damage them.

Keira Bell (pictured) wanted to be a boy. She was 15 when she persuaded her father to take her to the Tavistock, where she was given puberty blockers and cross sex hormones, and had a double mastectomy. In her early 20s, she realised she'd made a terrible mistake

I will never forget the astonishing courage of Keira Bell, who aged 15 persuaded her father to take her to the Tavistock. She wanted to be a boy. She was given puberty blockers and cross sex hormones.

She had a double mastectomy. In her early 20s, she realised shed made a terrible mistake and took her case to court. The damage done to her cannot be undone, but we can prevent it happening to others.

Dr Cass spent four years doing research and began the reinstatement of good sense in the gender debate. With the new clinics hopefully working within the Cass recommendations, the thousands of children on the waiting list should be safe.

And to the parents of the five-year-old I say: Just let him or her get on with being whatever or whoever he or she wants to be. Pretending is what kids do and it does no harm.

Kate shames the fat-shamers

Kate Winslet is proud of her body as it ages - she has no shame about her plump bits, nor about the increasing number of wrinkles on her face

The actress poses on the cover of Harper's Bazaar's September issue, ahead of the release of her new biopic film Lee next month

Bless you Kate Winslet. Filming the story of the photographer and war correspondent Lee Miller, she had to appear, seated, in a bikini. She was advised to sit up straight and hide any rolls of fat around her belly. She refused.

She has no shame about her plump bits, nor about the increasing number of wrinkles on her face.

Shes proud of her body as it ages, as we all should be, and shes brave enough to tell those who would shame her to get lost. I couldnt love her more!

What was the BBC thinking?

What was the BBC thinking when it kept paying Huw Edwards his vast salary for months, even giving him an extra 299,000, when they knew what he was being accused of?

Former BBC broadcaster Huw Edwards arriving in court last week. He pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children

Im appalled that even one penny of my licence fee money has gone into the pocket of a man whos pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children.

Get the cash back Director General and use it to make some decent programmes.

A funny thing has happened at Londons Victoria and Albert Museum. Theyre having a recruitment drive to find more men to work there. Too many Victorias and not enough Alberts, they say. How can it be considered a problem to have more women than men working there? Sounds like the way things should be to me.

Jenni's chihuahua Minnie - who likes the natural smell of dog

Dolce & Gabbana has launched a pet perfume called Fefe, named after Domenico Dolces dog. I asked Frieda, Madge and Minnie if theyd like some. No way, said they. Were dogs. We like to smell of dog. Thanks, girls, that saves me 85 quid.
Author Elin Hilderbrand has stunned fans after announcing she was ditching her summertime staple books to write dark fiction about teenagers.

In an interview with The Boston Globe, Hilderbrand, 55, revealed she would be writing the new piece in tandem with her 18-year-old daughter, Shelby Cunningham.

The outlet reported that the two new books from the mother daughter duo would be a cross between 'Euphoria' and 'The Secret History'. Their first book 'The Academy' is slated to release next year.

The TV series Euphoria, from where they have grabbed inspiration, follows a group of high school students, going through their own relatable problems such as body image, drug addictions and trying to fit in.

While 'The Secret History' revolves around a group of six students studying at a Vermont college who become entangled in a murder

Hilderbrand told the outlet: 'I'm out of ideas. I could tell it was happening when I wrote 'Golden Girl.' I knew 'Swan Song' was the goodbye. I just couldn't find any fresh takes.'

Hilderbrand, seen here, revealed she would be writing the new piece in tandem with her 18-year-old daughter, Shelby Cunningham

The TV series Euphoria, from where they have grabbed inspiration, follows a group of high school students. A grab from the show is seen here

She added: 'I've tried to deliver high-quality escapist wish-fulfillment beach books every summer. I never want to write something where they felt: 'She's done this already.''

According to Hildebrand the new novel concerning the teenagers will be set at a boarding school and will be 'extremely adult'.

She told the outlet it wouldn't hold back on the 'sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll' and would involve a lot of interpersonal drama.

Hildebrand added: 'The things Shelby was telling me, my mouth dropped open. Just the interpersonal drama was mind-blowing.

'I said, Were writing a novel, and were going to set it at a boarding school. She was like OK, yeah. But [her experience] isnt part of the plot.'

Hilderbrand's books include '28 Summers', 'The Identicals' and have become a summertime staple.

Nearly all of her novels involve an idyllic beach scene, with the stories set around Nantucket where she resides.

Hilderbrand's books include '28 Summers', 'The Identicals' and have become a summertime staple

Nearly all of her novels involve an idyllic beach scene, with the stories set around Nantucket where she resides

She told the outlet that those are the novels she will definitely stop writing altogether, but may return with a memoir or a cookbook.

Hilderbrand previously told the Associated Press in June 2021 that 2024 was the year she would put down her pen.

Speaking then, she said: 'A lot of people will follow a writer for a long time and then inevitably they will turn out a book that is not as good as the others,

'I've always said to myself, 'I will not do that. I will make each book better and better or different in some way.' I feel myself coming to my natural end of my material.'

The first two seasons of Sam Levinson's racy series starred Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, Alexa Demie and Jacob Elordi.

The first season of the program ran for eight episodes and was followed by a pair of specials released in 2020 and 2021.

Series creator Sam Levinson previously conceded that 'there are going to be parents who are going to be totally f**king freaked out'

Euphoria's second season was premiered to critical and commercial acclaim. It was confirmed that a third season had been greenlit in February of last year.

In the first episode, viewers saw Zendaya's character, Rue, suffering from a drug overdose.

That scene is accompanied by a group of shirtless teen boys hovering around a phone as they look at revenge porn photos of another character in the series.

There was also a statutory rape scene involving Hunter Schafer's 17-year-old character, Jules.

Euphoria's second season was premiered to critical and commercial acclaim. It was confirmed that a third season had been greenlit in February of last year.

Series creator Sam Levinson previously conceded that 'there are going to be parents who are going to be totally f**king freaked out'.
Queen Rania of Jordan proved to be one very stylish grandmother as she stepped out in Amman today.

The wife of King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, 53, looked typically chic in a trendy pair of wide-leg jeans, featuring cinched waist detailing and oversized pockets.

She teamed the eye-catching denim garment with a crisp white shirt, which boasted statement cuffed short sleeves and a smart collar.

The Jordanian Queen met with young entrepreneurs at Bldr Space, a 'co-working experience that offers flexible office solutions within an interconnected community', according to the firm's LinkedIn.

Queen Rania also visited the team behind Bith.AI, a free video editor for its users, whilst in the capital of Jordan.

Queen Rania of Jordan proved to be one very stylish grandmother as she stepped out in Amman today

The sophisticated royal teamed her ensemble with with a navy and tan handbag, as well as a dainty golden necklace.

Looking effortlessly elegant, the Queen opted for a smattering of glamorous makeup and opted for curly locks to frame her face.

Rania's outing comes after Princess Rajwa, the wife of Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan, gave birth to a baby girl on 3 August, the couple's first child and the first grandchild of King Abdullah II, the country's royal court said.

In a brief statement, the royal Hashemite court said the baby was named Iman.

In a video posted on Rajwa's official Instagram page on Saturday, Hussein was cradling his newborn daughter to the soundtrack of You Are My Sunshine.

Sweet photos also show the new parents cuddling their newborn, with Iman meeting her grandparents and aunt for the first time too at the King Hussein Medical Centre hospital, in Amman, Jordan.

The birth of Princess Iman came about a year after Hussein and Rajwa's extravagant wedding, which drew a star-studded guest list including the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Rajwa, 30, was born in Riyadh to a prominent and wealthy Saudi Arabian family distantly related to the country's current ruler, King Salman.

The wife of King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, 53, looked typically chic in a trendy pair of wide-leg jeans, featuring cinched waist detailing and oversized pockets

The Jordanian Queen met with young entrepreneurs at Bldr Space, a 'co-working experience that offers flexible office solutions within an interconnected community', according to the firm's LinkedIn

Queen Rania also visited the team behind Bith.AI, a free video editor for its users, whilst in the capital of Jordan

Hussein, also 30, was named crown prince in 2004, at the age of 15, after Abdullah stripped his own half-brother, Prince Hamzah, of the title.

The prince is the eldest son of Abdallah II, 62, who has ruled Jordan as a reliable western ally and voice of moderation through more than two decades of turmoil in Israel, the Palestinian territories, Syria and Iraq, all of which border the small, resource-poor kingdom.

According to Jordanian law, only males can inherit the Hashemite throne.

'The royal Hashemite court extends its sincere congratulations and best wishes to their royal highnesses and to their majesties King Abdullah II and Queen Rania Al Abdullah on this happy occasion,' the statement read.

In June, the Queen of Jordan, 53, shared a gushing post to her 10 million followers to mark her son turning 30, showing Hussein and Rajwa beaming in formal attire.

Rajwa was glowing in an off-white dress with the fitted silhouette revealing her blossoming baby bump; she added lavish accessories to the outfit - including a diamond bracelet.

The couple - who wed in a prestigious ceremony last year at Zahran Palace - appeared in high spirits as they posed in nature, glancing away from the camera.

The joyous announcement comes after Rajwa's tragic loss of her father in February - just months after she married into the Jordanian royal family . Khaled bin Musaed bin Saif bin Abdulaziz Al Saif died at the age of 71.

Queen Rania holds her newborn granddaughter Iman in Amman

Queen Rania is pictured holding her first grandchild, Princess Iman

In a heartfelt post on Instagram , Prince Hussein shared a picture of him embracing Khaled, who became his 'beloved' father-in-law after marrying Princess Rajwa last June.

'With profound sadness and sorrow, we bid farewell to my beloved father-in-law. We will always remember his kindness, generosity, and integrity. May God bestow mercy upon him and grant us patience and strength,' he wrote.

Hussei, and high-flying architect Rajwa, were married in June last year at Zahran Palace in Amman.

Following a short service, Abdullah II and Rania hosted a lavish reception at the Al Husseiniya Palace, which was attended by more than 1,700 guests - including the Prince and Princess of Wales .

Rajwa dazzled in a white gown by Lebanese designer Elie Saab, which featured a lengthy train embroidered with flowers, and a sparkling diamond tiara.

Abdullah II and Rania proudly watched as their son was wed during an Islamic ceremony known as a 'katb ktab' held in a gazebo and conducted by the Royal Hashemite Court Imam Dr Ahmed Al Khalaileh.

Kate, who lived in Jordan for a short period during her childhood, led the glamorous guests at the event in a blush pink lace dress also by Elie Saab.
She told her friend that it felt 'good' to wave goodbye to the presidential home

The 60-year-old former First Lady opened up about leaving the White House

Michelle Obama has opened up to 'close friend' Melinda Gates about her transition out of the White House as she recalled the newfound sense of freedom she felt.

The former First Lady, 60, and the ex-wife of Microsoft billionaire Bill, 68, showcased their tight bond as the pair discussed Michelle's exit from the presidential home in a recent episode of Melinda's podcast Moments That Make Us.

Melinda, 59, gushed over her pal and said she was 'lucky' to have her in her life before the mom-of-two noted that it was 'strange' to hear her doorbell ring after she left the White House.

Michelle confessed that although it was 'odd' to be at a home other than the President's Palace, she found that it felt 'good' to wave goodbye to her time as an official.

She explained that after she and her husband - former President Barack Obama - decided to stay in Washington, D.C., despite not living in the White House for the sake of their daughters - Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23.

Michelle Obama has opened up to 'close friend' Melinda Gates about her transition out of the White House as she recalled the newfound sense of freedom she felt

The former First Lady, 60, and the ex-wife of Microsoft billionaire Bill, 68, showcased their tight bond as the pair discussed Michelle's exit from the presidential home in a recent episode of Melinda's podcast Moments That Make Us

Melinda celebrated Michelle's appearance on the podcast in a new set of photos, which she shared to her Instagram account.

The two pals embraced and grinned from ear-to-ear for the snapshots.

Melinda looked as chic as ever as she donned a white and blue midi dress that was cinched in at the waist with a belt.

Meanwhile, Michelle looked gorgeous in green as she sported a sleeveless utility-style dress and a pair of black sandals.

The former wife of the Microsoft billionaire captioned the snap: 'I'm lucky to call Michelle Obama a friend, and I had so much fun talking with her as part of my Moments That Make Us series.

'She shared what it felt like to transition out of the White House, how knitting reminds her of the importance of small actions, and why she makes a point to cultivate new friendships. I can't wait for you to watch our conversation.'

And it seemed that Michelle felt right at home while chatting to Melinda as she didn't hold back when it came to her departure.

She revealed: 'The day after we left the White House, first of all it felt good and strange because we still lived in D.C. We made the decision to stay in Washington, D.C., because the girls were in school and their lives were in D.C.

Melinda gushed over her pal and said she was 'lucky' to have her in her life before the mom-of-two noted that it was 'strange' to hear her doorbell ring after she left the White House

And it seemed that Michelle felt right at home while chatting to Melinda as she didn't hold back when it came to her exit out of the White House

'I mean we had successfully transitioned them and raised them in D.C, they had lived in the White House longer than they had lived anywhere so I didn't want to make a transition for them just for another year or so and I knew when Malia would want to come home for breaks she'd want to come home to her friends so we stayed in D.C.'

In addition to detailing the reasoning behind wanting to stay in D.C, Michelle lifted the lid on the family's final helicopter ride in Air Force One.

'It was strange, you take the final helicopter ride, our very last ride on Air Force. We took a quick vacation to Palm Springs, so the day after we were out of D.C, we were in another place so it felt like we were on vacation but then when we came back to our new home, it was odd,' she added.

Michelle confessed that it was difficult for them to adjust to life on a different street and a newfound sense of freedom - admitting that it was weird to hear her doorbell ring for the first time in years.

She said: 'It was odd coming down a different street and parking through a different set of barricades - because we still had barricades, we still had secret service - but I had a front door that I could open where people would walk up to visit and ring the doorbell and our dogs didn't know what a doorbell was.

'So it was just the freedom of opening my own door, walking down to my own kitchen, opening up my back door on my own without calling Secret Service and being able to sit in the warm sun on a porch and listen to neighborhood sounds and other neighborhood dogs.'

Michelle added that it was a 'huge' deal to return to some sense of normalcy.

She explained that after she and her husband and the former President Barack Obama decided to stay in Washington, D.C.

Further in the clip, Michelle revealed that she and Barack were teaching their daughters how to be 'stand-up young people on their own'

She admitted that once they left they White House, the family then realized how 'sheltered' they had been.

'We really realized how much of a cocoon we had lived in and what a sheltered way we lived in the White House.

'It was a wonderful eight years but it was so abnormal and I think that first day being at a new home in a in a real community with neighbors and all of that felt refreshing to me,' she explained.

Further in the clip, Michelle revealed that she and Barack were teaching their daughters how to be 'stand-up young people on their own.'

She explained that when raising her children, she often thought about how 'to turn those two little people into valued and valuable humans in the world.'

She added: 'I never felt my job was to create mini-mes, or create people who were going to live out some brokenness in me or fill some hole or to be my friend. As my girls joke, I always said  my favorite line was, "I'm not one of your little friends."

And while she said that she tried her best to raise her children to be great women, she added that her daughters always knew they were under a microscope

'There were some lines drawn. I had to raise them to be stand-up young people on their own, especially as the daughters of a former president. But people are quick to cut a kid off if you don't show up right and you've got a name behind you. You have to come correct.'

And while she said that she tried her best to raise her children to be great women, she added that her daughters always knew they were under a microscope.

Michelle added: 'They are watched. They had to learn how to balance the unwanted attention, but do it politely. To build their own lives in the spotlight and not be eaten up by it.

'Well those girls had to be smart and confident and independent straight away  even when they were living in a house with butlers and maids and florists.

'But I was raising them thinking, "You're not going to live here, and with me, forever. So I've got to hand you your life soon and let you manage it."'

The Obama family moved into the White House in 2009 and left in 2017 as Barack had served two terms as President.

When they moved in, their daughters were eight and 10. Throughout their time there, Malia and Sasha attended the private Sidwell Friends School through high school graduation.
An Australian bikini brand founder has announced the shock closure of her famous line because she 'doesn't have time' to run it anymore.

Tahlia Skaines, who is from the Gold Coast but now lives in Bali, revealed she was 'time poor' after purchasing a house that needs renovations while juggling multiple jobs.

The 29-year-old social media star launched her brand Skaines the Label at the start of 2022 but has since reevaluated her priorities.

'In recent months I've sat down and evaluated where I am, what I'm doing in life, what fulfills me and what makes me happy,' she said in a video.

'I've known for a while that I'm so time poor and I have so much going on - I wear so many different hats.

'Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my jobs and I feel so blessed and so lucky to have this life and to be doing what I do.'

Despite that, being an influencer and running her brand takes too much out of her day.

'I've come to the realisation that I don't want to feel so rushed and busy and chaotic like I'm always catching my tail - especially at this stage in my life.

Australian influencer Tahlia Skaines announced the shock closure of her swimwear brand

The 29-year-old social media star launched her brand Skaines the Label at the start of 2022 but has since reevaluated her priorities

'It was fine when I was a little bit younger, but I want to be more settled now. I want to be more relaxed and calm.'

Ms Skaines apologised to her fans but said she had to put her career first.

'Also, obviously financially as well, I considered what is smartest because I've worked so hard in my career.

'So I'm not going to continue with Skaines The Label, I am so sorry to anyone that this might disappoint  but I just can't do it all.'

Ms Skaines revealed that she was 'afraid' to speak to her employees about the shock decision, but that her workers 'took it well' and she's satisfied with how they left things.

Skaines the Label isn't the first Australian brand to bite the dust, and a small business owner on the brink of going bust previously revealed how she had been left lost for words after an influencer quoted almost $100,000 to promote her brand.

The unnamed content creator quoted Prilla Bowen $82,000 for a TikTok that would highlight products from her swimwear brand Prilla Collective.

She joked she almost fell of her 'f***ing chair' when she received the quote after she had contacted several influencers.

'I knew I was shooting my shot with this last one but I felt so awkward saying I have a small budget so I just said 'yes, send me your prices',' she said.

The influencer quoted Prilla Bowen $82,000 for a TikTok that would highlight products from her swimwear brand (pictured are two different models from a previous photoshoot)

'No hate whatsoever, I know this is people's jobs but I did not realise how much money influencers make.

'I'm not making that in my own swimwear business let alone giving it to an influencer, I am way out of my league here.'

The influencer quoted Ms Bowen $53,180 for an Instagram feed post, $60,000 for an Instagram reel and $33,490 for an Instagram story with five frames.

A TikTok video that highlighted the brand would cost $83,580 while a post that didn't highlight the swimwear was $48,630.

Ms Bowen reached out to two other influencers in the hopes they would be less expensive, but was unable to afford their rates.
Aldi Australia has revealed the top new food buys of 2024

The top brand new Aldi Australia products of 2024 have been named ahead of the annual People's Picks awards - and it's all about budget dinners and healthy desserts.

Named under the 'Best Newcomer' category, the popular buys shine a light on the latest additions to the budget supermarket.

As Australians continue to battle the cost of living crisis, households have come up with creative and cheap ways to feed their families.

Australian shoppers cannot get enough of 'fakeaway' meals - with a butter chicken meal kit ($3.99), Angus beef thin crust pizza ($5.99), and fish fillets ($6.99) all coming out on top of the list.

Aldi's meal kits have previously flown off shelves after every restock - with the chicken Pad Thai even amassing a cult following online.

Other popular new products include tinned beans ($1.19), sugar-free passionfruit energy drinks ($3.99), beef bone broth ($4.99), chicken bone broth ($4.99), and truffle olive oil potato chips ($3.49).

Desserts are also a customer favourite, with thousands across the country picking up Aldi's new yoghurt chocolate honeycomb fudge ($2.69) and yoghurt cookies and cream ($2.69).

The low price point keeps shoppers coming back to the supermarket chain, with prices starting at just 69c for a pack of yoghurt.

The top brand new Aldi Australia products of 2024 have been named ahead of the annual People's Picks awards

Customers can vote for their favourite Aldi products until August 21, choosing from a shortlist of 80 spanning across eight categories.

Aldi Australia's Shopping Expert, Kylie Warnke, said the shortlist was an excellent way for shoppers to get the most out of their grocery experience.

'We love to see classic items like the Greek Spinach & Cheese Spanakopita and The Best Margarita Pizza Ever return as finalists year after year, as well as cheer on new products making their debut such as the Kapiti Passion Fruit and Kamahi Honey Ice cream and the Cafe Series Salt & Pepper Tempura Barramundi.'

What are the best new products at Aldi Australia in 2024?

Flying Power Passionfruit Sugar Free ($3.99)

New Season Snack & Go Beans ($1.19)

Urban Eats Indian Meal Kit Butter Chicken ($3.99)

Premiere Mix It Indulgent Yogurt Choc Honeycomb Fudge ($2.69)

International Cuisine Angus Beef Thin Crust Pizza ($5.99)

Chefs' Cupboard Bone Broth Beef ($4.99)

Ocean Royale Snapper Fillets - Crumbed or Battered ($6.99)

Blackstone Gourmet Snack Co. Deli Style Potato Chips Truffle & Olive Oil ($3.49)

Premiere Mix it Indulgent Yogurt Cookies & Cream ($2.69)

Chefs' Cupboard Bone Broth Chicken ($4.99)
She documents their lives abroad and recently gave insight into her son's school

An American mom has shared the strict rules she has to follow when making her young son's bento box lunches for his Japanese school.

Moriah relocated to Okinawa, Japan, in January 2024 with her husband and two children after her spouse was moved for his military role.

She now regularly documents her life abroad and recently took viewers through her son's lunch for school during a bento day.

'Bento means lunchbox slash meal box,' the mom explained in a clip posted to TikTok, which has so far been viewed more than 4.5 million times.

She explained that in Japanese culture bento boxes are a staple and some of her mom friends have to make them every single day for multiple children - but was relieved she only has to make them twice a month as her son is provided lunch at school most of the time.

Moriah moved to Okinawa in Japan in January 2024 with her husband and two children, after her husband was moved for his military role

Moriah now documents her life abroad, taking viewers through her son's lunch for school during a bento day

She explained that in Japanese culture bento boxes are a staple and some of her mom friends have to make them every single day for multiple children

'There's not specific reason when and why they do the two times a month,' she continued. 'The reason behind a bento box is that is shows the mother's love to the children or to her husband by how nicely she puts it together.'

Moriah admitted that this can definitely be seen as toxic but she luckily doesn't experience that at her son's school.

'I don't know if that's because he is young but my friend here said that is typical for the Japanese culture for children to judge each other's bentos, or for the teacher to look and see it and judge off that,' she explained.

'So again, it can be kind of stressful to moms because they are waking up super early to make these intricate bento boxes just for the child to show it off for a couple of minutes before eating it,' the mom pointed out.

'Again, I'm not going to speak on it too much, because it's not my culture and I'm trying to understand as much as possible. It's two times a month, I do it because I like to do it,' she said simply.

Moriah said her son's school also heavily promotes healthy eating, listing off items they're not allowed to pack.

'[We can't pack] chips, cookies, crackers, gummies, any kind of candy - pretty much anything that would be considered junk food,' she explained.

To ensure parents are adhering to the rules, teachers check the student's lunchboxes and if there's something in there that is not supposed to be they might take it away or allow the child to have it and then say something to the parent.

@momentswithmoriah Replying to @Weeb66 2x speed if ya need, most of the details were needed to understand it better  bento bentobox japan okinawa   original sound - Moriah  life in Japan

Moriah said her son's school also heavily promote healthy eating, listing off items they're not allowed to pack

Commenters were in awe over the adorable bento boxes and Moriah's impressive skills

'[This] happened to me,' she admitted. 'I put this tiny cookie in my son's bento yesterday since it was the last bento day before summer break and when I got there I told them about it, I wanted to double check and they had me remove it.'

While the American acknowledged it 'sounds extreme,' she said her son has never eaten as well as he has in Japan.

'He gets plenty of sweet treats at home and we make sure to talk to him about healthy eating because we don't want him to think because he can't have it at school that it's bad,' she added.

Moriah concluded her video by saying her 'number one goal' when making the bento boxes is to make a box she knows her son is going to eat and making it cute.

'I know this is not for everyone and that's fine,' she said. 'My son really enjoys it and I am so grateful to get the opportunity to live here and I'm trying to immerse myself in the culture as much as possible.'

Commenters were in awe over the adorable bento boxes and Moriah's impressive skills.

'I lowkey want to start making bento box lunches just for fun,' one user commented.

'Used to teach elementary school in Japan. Bento days were always so fun for me to see what the kids packed but I always worried about how stressful it must be for the moms,' added another.

'Aww! I love how they push for healthy eating. That's amazing,' one user wrote.

'I agree!' the mom wrote back enthusiastically. 'So far it doesn't seem too strict and he is beginning to eat a wide variety of foods.'
A young worker was humiliated after her boss sent a company-wide message that hinted at her personal health challenges.

Riya* has been working at a creative agency as a graphic designer for 10 months but her relationship with her superiors has always been fraught.

The 25-year-old from New Delhi told FEMAIL she was used to unreasonable demands from her bosses, but the 'rogue' message was one step too far.

'Tomorrow's meeting is compulsory for everybody please send me no messages on the side or in the morning. Don't care if it's raining or you have period cramps,' the founder said on the company group chat.

Riya suffers from severe health conditions that can occasionally impact her ability to work - something she was upfront with before she was hired.

'The period pain comment was about me,' Riya revealed.

'I have really bad cramps because of thyroid problems and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It's painful to the point where I tell my employers before signing a contract that it will be an issue once a month but my boss doesn't believe me.'

The cruel message isn't the first time her employers have used Riya's medical conditions against her.

A young worker was humiliated when she looked down at her phone and discovered an unusual demand from her boss

Riya's working hours are 10am to 6pm but gets asked to stay back and complete tasks until 8pm several times a week

'My other supervisor has also used me taking sick leave during my period to guilt me into doing more work and staying later the next day to make up for it.'

Riya's working hours are 10am to 6pm but gets asked to stay back and complete tasks until 8pm several times a week.

'6pm is not a hard stop,' her boss wrote to her. 'You [had a day] off yesterday so obviously there will be [extra] work load today.'

Riya said she couldn't stay past 6pm because she had a class at 6:30, but her boss told her to finish the work after her class and have it done before the next working day begun.

'She's always this rude. She refuses to pay overtime but expects you to start early and finish late,' the graphic designer said.

Riya revealed her boss ignores her messages when it comes to compensation

'My boss goes absolutely crazy if you're not available after work hours.'

But Riya revealed her boss often ignores her messages when it comes to talking about compensation.

'She stopped replying to my messages for over a week because I asked to be compensated for the work I was doing outside my role at the company - work she promised to pay me for,' she said.

'She only replied when I turned the work in and then took all the credit for it with the client, ignoring that I was ever involved.'
A young woman was verbally attacked by her 'toxic' and jealous boyfriend after he discovered her doctor was a man.

The girlfriend explained that she went to a follow up appointment for a head injury and was sent to a hospital where she was allocated the next available doctor.

Later, when she was sending her boyfriend an update by text, he was quick to comment on the fact her doctor was male.

She posted the bizarre text exchange to Reddit where it sparked a heated response from outraged men and women.

The suspicious man interrogated his girlfriend, asking if the doctor 'smiled and s***' to which she replied she wasn't sure as he was wearing a mask at the time.

She was then asked if the male medical professional had touched her anywhere and she explained that like the female doctor before, he had 'patted down' her legs.

'What's the point of this, your brain is not in your legs?' the furious boyfriend shot back. 'That's weird and not needed...did something happen?'

The young woman insisted it was all innocent, but the exchange then escalated with her boyfriend demanding to know what she was wearing at the medical visit, and whether it was 'revealing' or not.

The girlfriend went to a follow up appointment for a recent head injury: 'I got sent to a hospital where I could not choose my doctor,' she explained

A 'paranoid' boyfriend interrogated his girlfriend after the hospital assigned a male doctor to complete her follow up appointment

The young woman said that she was wearing a tank top and jeans, which weren't revealing, but her boyfriend wasn't placated.

'I don't like this at all,' he said.

When the girlfriend insisted that the male doctor was more thorough than the female doctor she had seen initially, and actually listened to her instead of just prescribing medication, the boyfriend's temper took a shaper turn.

'Oh good, great, he listen to you...f****** a*******,' the boyfriend sarcastically replied.

The paranoid partner insisted on talking further to the young woman when he next saw her, refusing to believe that the visit was as innocent as she maintained.

The boyfriend was slammed as 'extremely toxic' after the woman shared the text message exchange on Reddit

The boyfriend was unanimously slammed as 'extremely toxic' after the American woman shared the text message exchange - with many urging her to leave the 'controlling and insane' relationship.

'Not to be one of those Redditors who says to break up with him instantly...but you need to break up with him instantly,' one woman said.

'This isn't okay behavior. It almost sounds like the gender of your doctor is more of an issue than your actual health,' she added.

'Girl, this better be a joke otherwise you need to leave him immediately,' another agreed.

Another argued that it was much better to just be single than to date someone who was jealous, insecure and verbally abusive.

'I'd rather be lonely than miserable,' they said.

Many urged the original poster to stay safe, saying that the boyfriend's behaviour was a major red flag and that things were only likely to get worse the longer they dated.

Others thought that the boyfriend's paranoia might actually be an indication of his own tendency to cheat.

'There's a good chance he's cheating on the original poster already. That paranoid, controlling behavior is a pretty good sign based on previous experience,' one woman observed.

Beyond the jealous and insecure behaviour, others slammed the boyfriend for objectifying the young woman by asking what she was wearing.

This isn't the first time that a man has been criticised for demanding that his partner limit their interaction with the opposite sex.

A relationship expert recently came under fire for saying that women should block men on social media if their partner asks them to.

'When she gets a text from a guy you don't like, say: 'Block that guy for me',' Jake Maddock said in a video.

'Your ideal partner will do it straight away,' Jake added.

People were quick to respond that Jake's behaviour had no place in a healthy relationship, and that women shouldn't simply cut men out of their lives to make their partners feel secure.

'Controlling - it's a red flag,' one woman said.

'RUN!' another chimed in.
Bimini, star of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, has shared unsightly complications of their recent hair transplant  including extreme swelling that's caused their head to balloon.

In a clip shared to the drag queen's TikTok, Bimini compared their new appearence to that of the character Sloth in the 1985 classic adventure film, The Goonies.

Bimini, the stage name of Thomas George Graeme Hibbitts, recently revealed on Instagram that they were undergoing a hair transplant to restore their hairline which began receeding when the star was 13 years old.

'I was quite self-conscious about it right up until about 2018 when I cut my hair into a mullet,' said Bimini. 'I still knew I wanted to get a transplant at some point.'

Bimini, the stage name of Thomas George Graeme Hibbitts, recently revealed the aftermath of their hair transplant

Now it appears the procedure, which was performed in the UK, has resulted in a common side effect that happens when fluid collects below the scalp.

This is due to fighter cells and other inflammatory proteins sent by the immune system rushing to the site of the injury to ward off potential infection.

In a TikTok video, which has now had two million views, Bimini, who was a runner up in the second season of the hugely popular reality show, said: 'A natural part of the healing process when you get a hair transplant is facial swelling as all of the anesthesia and fluid drains from your face.

'So it's the trauma and the response to that to the body. But nobody f***ing told me that I was going to like the Goonies.'

To emphasize their point Bimini, 31, posted a pick of the iconic character Sloth from the adventure comedy film alongside text under the video which read: 'Sign me up for the goonies reboot'.

Bimini, originally from Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, previously detailed on Instagram how they had wanted a hair transplant since around the age of 13.

'From around the age of 13/14 I started to recede and when I was discovering my identity and who I was it was something about myself and my body that was so masculine and I couldnt control.

'I was quite self-conscious about it right up until about 2018 when I cut my hair into a mullet.

'This is something quite personal and I feel vulnerable sharing but Im here to own it as I know I wont be the only person that has felt like this.'

Hair transplants are cosmetic procedures that involve surgically moving hair harvested from another part of the body, typically the back of the head or chest, to an area on the scalp that's thinning or bald.

The procedure isn't available on the NHS, and costs anywhere between 2,000 to 30,000 to have done privately in the UK depending on the extent of the transplant.

Bimini has not revealed what the cost of their transplant.

It takes about two weeks to recover from the transplant itself but about four month for the new hair to start growing.

The NHS says it is common following a hair transplant for patients to suffer from a tight, achy and swollen scalp for a few days, temporary scabbing from where the hair was transplanted and some small scarring.

Bimini, who placed runner up in season 2 of RuPauls Drag Race UK previously detailed how they'd wanted to have a hair transplant since the age of 13 when their hair started receding. Pictured here at the Attitude Pride Awards 2024 in London in June

Documenting their recovery from the procedure, which sees hair harvested from other parts of the body placed on the scalp Bimini posted herself with a pic of Sloth from the The Goonies (pictured) with the text: 'Sign me up for the goonies reboot'.

Bimini underwent their procedure in the UK but many British men fly to Turkey to undergo the procedure at fraction of the price, however some have warned of mixed results

Like any operation a hair transplant isn't risk free and patients can suffer from bleeding, infections, or an allergic reaction to anaesthetic.

The health service urges people considering a hair transplant to do thorough research into both the procedure and the clinic they are considering going to.

This includes seeing if the clinic is registered with health and care watchdog the Care Quality Commission and that the surgeon is registered with the the General Medical Council and if they are a member of the British Association of Hair Restoration Surgery.

However, many British men are opting for overseas transplants performed in surgical tourism destinations like Turkey for a fraction of the price they'd pay in the UK.

But a number have reported less than satisfactory results from going under the knife abroad.
GP industrial action could see more than a million extra patients pushed to A&E, leaked NHS documents show.

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.

But modelling drawn up by NHS England suggests the work-to-rule action could heap huge pressure on hospitals and pharmacies and cost more than half a billion pounds.

It comes as Wes Streeting yesterday labelled the decision 'unnecessary' arguing it was 'punishing patients', while Britain's most senior A&E doctor warned elderly and vulnerable patients were being put most at risk.

Modelling drawn up by NHS England suggests the work-to-rule action could heap huge pressure on hospitals and pharmacies and cost more than half a billion pounds

It comes as Wes Streeting yesterday labelled the decision 'unnecessary' arguing it was 'punishing patients', while Britain's most senior A&E doctor warned elderly and vulnerable patients were being put most at risk

Your browser does not support iframes.

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Normally the NHS would expect around 9 million A&E attendances over four months.

But the NHS document, seen by the Health Service Journal, shows the extra 1.2 million cases over the next four months could mean the figure exceeds 10 million.

The action could also 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.

Under this scenario, the extra A&E attendances would cost 319 million, elective referrals 104 million, urgent care-centre attendances 67 million and pharmacy visits up to 27million.

It is understood that these are worst-case scenario figures and assume that all GP practices across the country will participate in the 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

Research has long suggested a GP appointment costs the taxpayer around 40 per visit, while a visit to A&E can incur a cost of around 400.

The document also said 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.

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.

NHS England has said the public still must come forward for care as they would normally during GP industrial action.

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 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: 'I'm not pretending that that is the total fix of the problem, but I think it is an indication of serious intent.

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'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.

'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.'

Campaigners and health experts have also already warned the action could worsen A&E waiting times and even lead to 'disaster' in cancer care.

What does the latest GP appointment data show? Appointments held: 28.5million Attended: 90.2 per cent Seen by GP: 44.6 per cent Seen by nurse: 19.6 per cent Face-to-face appointment: 64.8 per cent Phone appointment: 25.6 per cent Same day: 44 per cent Up to one week wait: 25.5 per cent One to two week wait: 12.8 per cent Two to four weeks wait: 12.6 per cent NHS England data for June Advertisement

And Britain's top A&E doctor Dr Adrian Boyle yesterday also said he was 'very anxious' about the impact of the collective GP action.

Dr Boyle told The Telegraph: 'The danger is that it is the most vulnerable who are most excluded - the elderly, those with dementia, people with learning disabilities, those who are least able to advocate for themselves.'

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.

Dr Katie Bramall-Stainer, chairwoman of the BMA's general practitioners committee for England, said: 'We have had some positive conversations with the new Health Secretary in recent weeks, and there is an opportunity to now work together to fix general practice, as a critical step in repairing the NHS.

'Our plans were put in place in March, and our timeline confirmed prior to the announcement of the General Election.

'It is an inalienable fact that practices are continuing to close, and experienced GPs leaving the NHS workforce.

'In this context, our collective action is designed to mitigate these two measures, with the support of over 98 per cent of BMA GP partner members who voted.

'The new Health Secretary wants to rebuild trust, and we agree.

'Our members action has been planned to be a "slow burn" precisely so the new Government has time to consider and consult with us on solutions.'
Reality TV star Gemma Collins has been reprimanded by Britain's advertising watchdog for promoting a pulsating headset that claims to treat depression.

The advert posted to her Instagram, which has since been deleted, was said to 'encourage people to take treatment for depression into their own hands' instead of seeking medical help for the condition.

Collins, who has 2.2million Instagram followers, was ordered by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) to remove the advert for the 400 device immediately.

In the clip, she is seen wearing the experimental gadget, called Flow Neuroscience AB, which sends mild electric shocks to the part of the brain responsible for regulating mood.

She goes on to state: 'Im off my depression tablets and this has been a real game changer for me. Flow actually works faster and better than antidepressants.

In the clip, posted on Instagram to Collins's 2.2million followers, she is seen wearing the 400 Flow Neuroscience AB device which sends mild electric shocks to the part of the brain responsible for regulating mood

The ad, which was posted in May last year, drew the ire of the Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) which said the post violated rules designed to stop ads from discouraging people from seeking treatment for medical conditions

'Its like having your own therapist in the comfort of your own home. Youre fully in control of your own treatment.'

Text accompanying the post also stated that the device 'reduces depression in 88 per cent of people, according to Flow's data.'

The ad drew the ire of the ASA when it was posted in May last year as it appeared to violate rules designed to stop ads discouraging people from seeking treatment for medical conditions.

The ASA disputed the sentences: 'If you dont have access to therapy or dont want to be on antidepressants' and 'why not give it a go if youre struggling with your mental health'.

This, the body said, suggested Flow could be used as an alternative to conventional treatment.

'We considered that the reference to buying the device directly from the website added to the impression that consumers could bypass the medical consultation route,' ASA ruled.

HOW DOES THE FLOW HEADSET WORK?

The makers of the Flow headset, which doesn't need a prescription, describe it as a 'brain stimulation wearable that leverages transcranial direct stimulation (tDCS) to activate the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex'. Essentially, the device sends a small electrical current (less than a household battery) into this part of the brain which causes neurons to fire more frequently, strengthening the neural pathways in the prefrontal cortex.' According to the company, clinical studies have proved that patients with depression have lower activity in this area of the brain, which is the part of the brain responsible for cognitive tasks and regulation of emotion. The headset is supported by an app which lets users log their experiences, which can be remotely monitored by a clinician. Advertisement

It added: 'We considered that the claims were targeted at both those consumers who were weighing up treatment options at an early point in their illness and those who were currently receiving conventional medication or therapy for depression.'

Flow disputed ASA's findings, highlighting how that the text accompanying the ad highlighted that people should consult their GP before thinking about using the device or changing their medication.

Collins herself endorsed Flow's statement, the ASA documents state: 'She believed the ad contained only personal observations and proven evidence and did not contain persuasive language.

'The ad did not discourage essential treatment but, rather, flagged an alternative or supplementary one. '

But ASA said the text about consulting a GP was 'insufficient' to avoid its concerns.

'We considered that this text did no more than suggest that consumers should arrange a consultation with a GP before starting to use the device,' the ruling reads.

'The text in the caption indicating that a GP should be consulted was insufficient to satisfy the requirement of the Code that ads must not offer treatment for depression unless that treatment was conducted under the supervision of a suitably qualified health professional.'

'We considered that the ad trivialised the decision to come off antidepressants or not take them at all and encouraged people to take their treatment into their own hands.'

The Flow headset, which doesn't need a prescription, is described as a ' brain stimulation wearable that leverages transcranial direct stimulation (tDCS) to activate the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex', parts of the brain responsible for mood regulation

The ASA also highlighted NHS advice stating it is not recommended for people with depression to stop taking medication for their condition without supervision.

In 2021, NHS watchdog NICE updated its guidance for the psychiatric medication  taken by an estimated 8.6 million Brits  stating that patients should be tapered off the drugs as going cold turkey could result in withdrawal symptoms.

Doctors' guidance advises that patients should be monitored while coming off antidepressants in case they suffer a mental health crisis.

ASA concluded its ruling by stating the ad discouraged 'essential treatment' for a medical condition and therefore breached the code.

It said the ad must not appear again in its current form and that Flow should ensure future ads avoid the same issues.

Collins has already removed the ad from Instagram.

A Flow spokesperson said: 'Depression must, without question, be treated responsibly, and people must seek advice from a healthcare professional (HCP) before seeking treatment. We endeavour to make this clear in all of our communications and will continue to do so.'

'We have spoken to Gemma following the feedback that it was not clear enough that an HCP should be involved in treatment, and her posts have been removed.'
A stonemason who developed an incurable lung disease after making quartz kitchen worktops has shared the devastating impact it's had on his life.

Malik Al-Khalil, 31, was first employed to make the trendy counters six years ago, and recalls coming home caked in the dust created when the material was cut.

Little did he know the dust, which he was also inhaling, was slowly destroying his lungs: today he struggles to breathe and is unable to walk unaided.

His body has been ravaged by silicosis, a terrifying disease that medics say could kill him.

Mr Al-Khalil, who is originally from Syria, is one of the few public faces of the scandal that has already killed one British stoneworker, with almost a dozen others rendered severely ill from silicosis.

A stonemason who developed an incurable lung disease as a consequence of working quartz kitchen worktops has shared the devastating impact it's had on his life (stock image)

Silicosis, via the fine particles workers inhale, causes internal scarring and inflammation of the lungs. Pictured silicosis of the lung tissue under magnification

However, doctors have warned that the known cases are likely just the tip of the iceberg.

Such is the concern, medics this week called on the Government to ban quartz worktops, in order to protect contractors and stonemasons.

Popular quartz worktops are made from 90 per cent ground quartz, and 10 per cent resins and pigments.

When processed into their final worktop form this results in the release of potentially harmful particles of fine silica dust being released into the air.

Cheaper than granite or marble, the worktops have become a staple of kitchen revamps, but its workers like Mr Al-Khalil that are paying the price.

'This silicosis, when it starts in your body, it will not stop,' he told i.

'I want to let all the people working in this work know what's happening from this material.'

Mr Al-Khalil claims no precautionary measures, such as 'wetting' the stone to suppress the dust, were taken when he was working with quartz.

He and colleagues were not provided with any specialist equipment to prevent inhalation beyond standard masks, he adds.

He developed a bad cough last August and sought help from hospital medics but was told it was likely a flu-like disease.

But his condition deteriorated, and he started experiencing vomiting, joint pain and breathlessness.

Seeking help again he said medics then suspected he had the bacterial infection tuberculosis.

However, Mr Al-Khalil's condition continued to rapidly worsen, and he became unable to eat or drink and his weight plummeted.

It was at this point, in September of last year, that tests revealed he had silicosis with doctors warning him that the disease could kill him.

He has been in out of hospital until this April after he needed surgery after his lungs collapsed after which he has needed more intensive care.

After his diagnosis, Mr Al-Khalil discovered two colleagues had also been diagnosed with had silicosis.

'I now know nine people that have the same silicosis  all working in factories, all working as stonemasons, all the people working the same job.'

Silicosis, via the fine particles workers inhale, causes internal scarring and inflammation of the lungs.

This leads the lungs at increased risk of infection, reduced their overall effectiveness, and can cause potentially fatal organ failure.

Struggling to breathe can also put a potentially deadly strain on the heart.

Silicosis isn't a new disease, it has blighted the lives of miners, builders and stonemasons in the UK before.

Britain's workplace health and safety watchdog the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimate 12 people are killed each year as a consequence of silicosis exposure.

However, HSE says this is likely an underestimate.

Expensive quartz worktops are made from one of the hardest minerals on earth which, when processed, results in the release of potentially harmful particles of fine dust.

In the last year, there have been 11 UK cases including one death from the progressive disease, caused by breathing in crystalline silica dust.

British medics said that last year, eight men aged between 27 and 56 were diagnosed with silicosis after visiting a specialist occupational lung disease clinic.

Two were being assessed for lung transplants, three for an autoimmune disease and two for opportunistic lung infection caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria when the disease was uncovered.

Exposure to the dust that triggers the disease averaged 12.5 years but was anywhere between four and 40 years, with all men having worked for small companies of under ten employees.

Of the cases six were born outside the UK and seven smoked or used to smoke, according to doctors writing in the BMJs Thorax journal.

Doctors treating them said more needed to be done to regulate dust exposure and urged officials to consider an outright ban.

Dr Joanna Feary, a respiratory consultant at the Royal Brompton, is currently treating patients with stone-induced silicosis.

They wrote: 'Onset of disease is likely to relate to exposure levels, suggesting levels, at least for some of the UK caseswere extremely high and implying that employers failed to control dust exposure and to adhere to health and safety regulations.

'The market is dominated by small companies in which regulation has been shown to be challenging to implement. Furthermore, at least some worktop manufacturers may fail to provide adequate technical information relating to potential risks.

'Even with cessation of exposure, disease progression has been noted in over 50 per cent of cases over [an average] of 4 years. Prevention of disease is therefore critical.'

The issue isn't solely a British problem. Earlier this year Australia become the first country to ban the type of worktops that have been linked to a fresh wave of silicosis, following a wave of 579 cases among stonemasons in the country.

Lung disease expert Dr Johanna Feary said there is 'no good treatment' for the deadly disease.

'Diagnosis can be devastating. It is affecting young men, many of whom have only worked with this material for a few years,' she told The Sun.

In a statement, a spokesperson from the Government's Health and Safety Executive said: 'Our sympathies are with those who have lost loved ones to any work-related disease.

'Great Britain has a robust and well-established regulatory framework in place to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances.

'We continue to work with industry to raise awareness of managing the risks of exposure to respirable crystalline silica and we are considering options for future interventions to ensure workers are protected.'

A HSE spokesperson said: 'Our sympathies are with those who have lost loved ones to any work-related disease.

'Great Britain has a robust and well-established regulatory framework in place to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances.

'We continue to work with industry to raise awareness of managing the risks of exposure to respirable crystalline silica and we are considering options for future interventions to ensure workers are protected.'

As for Mr Al-Khalil he still hopes to recover, stating he wants to move to a coastal town and continue taking driving lessons.
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.
A scabies outbreak ravaging four NSW hospitals has blown out, as health officials assure residents they are 'working hard to control the outbreak'.

NSW Health confirmed in a statement on Tuesday the number of scabies patients across four of hospitals in the Illawarra, south of Sydney, had risen to 38, including 14 patients and 24 staff.

The first case of the infectious skin condition was reported at Wollongong Hospital, but had since been reported at hospitals in nearby Coledale, Shellharbour, and Bulli.

Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) chief executive Margot Mains said she recognised the 'impact this unpleasant condition has had on patients and staff'.

'(I) would like to reassure them and the community that we are working hard to control the outbreak and support those affected,' Ms Mains said in a statement.

Scabies is a treatable infectious skin condition caused by tiny mites which burrow into the skin, but like headlice can be difficult to contain - especially in a hospital setting.

'Because scabies has an incubation period of up to six to eight weeks, is easily transmitted and can have minimal symptoms initially, there may be undetected cases within our facilities and community,' she said.

'To prevent the risk of further transmission, the district will provide preventive treatment for all current inpatients and staff across all our hospital sites and services.'

Scabies is a treatable infectious skin condition caused by tiny mites. Picture: Getty

Patients discharged from hospital since mid-May were also being urged to watch out for symptoms and to contact their GPs should they develop an itchy rash.

Symptoms of scabies include rashes, commonly on the wrists, between fingers and toes, in the armpits, elbows, groin and bottom, as well as sores and thick skin crusts.

In an earlier statement, Health Minister Ryan Park said 'people don't have to be worried or scared' of scabies, and that hospitals were necessarily being 'overly cautious'.

'That's why we're doing everything we can to try and make sure that not only are our patients treated and looked after and prevented from (getting) scabies, but also our staff and those visiting the hospital,' he said.

'Scabies is something that is quite common, doesn't have any long term impacts, and it's easily treatable.'
International attention is being drawn to a often overlooked Olympic event thanks to the unique effect its had on one of it's star athletes.

US Olympian Ryan Crouser - who just won his third consecutive gold medal in shot put at the Paris games - stunned fans when they saw the difference between his right and left hands.

The 31-year-old displayed his hands side by side in fists in a recent interview- showing clearly that his right fist was considerably larger than the left.

This is a side effect of using his right hand to throw the sixteen pound ball almost forty miles an hour for eighteen years.

Mr Crouser told interviewers that the right hand had taken 'a beating' over the years, making it bigger, stronger and less flexible than his left

Mr Crouser is a formidable force in the world of shot put, having one gold in all three of the Olympic games he's participated in

This extreme, repetitive movement strengthens the muscles in his hand, fingers, forearms and wrists.

But it also causes swelling and reduces his flexibility - all of which work in tandem to make the right hand to become thicker than the left.

Shot put is a track and field sport that requires its athletes to throw a dense metallic ball as far as possible from their starting point using only one hand.

They cannot let the ball drop below their shoulder, so they propel it from their neck using a pushing motion.

The balls, which are made of sand, iron steel or brass, weigh 16 pounds for men and 8.8 pounds for women.

Since the movement you make in this event is so specialized, most shot putters, like Mr Crouser, pick one arm to throw and train that arm alone.

This repeated throwing using only one arm can create the asymmetrical look observed in Mr Crouser by creating bigger muscles and swelling in the forearm.

'My hand is obviously swollen but a lot of that is just from throwing for years and years. I've been throwing for 18 years now. So my right hand is always bigger than my left,' the Olympian said in a video on his YouTube channel.'

He displayed this difference to the world on an interview with TODAY after winning gold.

In it, he extended both hands and showed how little flexibility their was in the right - since his muscles were so built up they restricted his range of movement. Even when he pushes hard on his fingertips, his hand doesn't move past a 90 degree angle.

The other side effects of the sport are a bit more obvious - according to 2023 research from University of Tsukuba in Japan, shot put athletes develop stronger chest, abdominal and arm muscles than the average person.

In this latest competition Mr Crouser won gold by launching the ball over 75 feet (22.9 meters) from where he stood in the arena.

The Oregonian currently holds the world record for the longest shot put - launching it 77 feet (23.56 meters) from his starting point.

He competed in both Rio De Janeiro and Tokyo Olympic games and said he hopes to take part in the Los Angeles games in 2028.
Women presenting to the emergency department in pain are less likely to receive medications they need to treat it compared to men, new research shows.

An analysis of discharge notes of more than 21,000 patients from Missouri and Israel showed that female patients were less likely to be prescribed pain meds, and their symptoms were more likely to be dismissed.

Dr Alex Gileles-Hillel, a co-author and doctor at Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center in Jerusalem, said: Women are viewed as exaggerating or hysterical and men are viewed as more stoic when they complain of pain.

It is the latest evidence of sex bias in medicine, with women also less likely to be treated for a heart attack than men.

Physicians put sex bias in medicine to the test by presenting both male and female nurses with identical fictional vignettes about a male patient and a female patient presenting with severe back pain.

When asked to assign a pain management score to male and female patients with the exact same complaint and health history, nurses perceived female patients pain as less intense and less deserving of treatment.

Pain is subjective, and doctors and nurses rely on patients to rate it on a scale from one to 10, with 10 being unbearable.

Medical professionals decide whether to administer pain medication and how strong it should be based on what patients tell them.

The latest research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reported that women, even when rating their pain as high on the scale, were nearly 20 percent less likely to get pain medication than men, even when their self-reported pain ratings were the same.

Using notes describing the patients treatment written when they left the hospital, the doctors found that 38 percent received some type of pain relief medication, compared to 47 percent of male patients with similar symptoms.

Women tended to score their pain slightly lower than men did  6.64 versus 6.81.

But researchers accounted for this and found a similarly disparate pattern across all pain ratings.

Further analysis revealed that nurses were 10 percent less likely to record womens pain scores at all, compounding the odds that they wouldnt receive the care they needed.

Women tend not to be taken seriously when they complain of health issues such as chest pain, raising the odds that they will suffer or die of a condition that could have been prevented

And women tended to spend an average additional 30 minutes waiting for a nurse or doctor to acknowledge them in the emergency department compared to men, who spent less time in the waiting room.

To further put their hypothesis - that a sex bias exists in ER - to the test, the researchers handed short written patient descriptions to 109 nurses at a Missouri hospital to judge the intensity of the patients pain.

The written scenarios for a male patient and a female patient were exactly the same. The only difference was the sex of the fictional patient: Ms. [Mr.] Jones presents to the Emergency Department.

'She [he] is a 44-year-old female [male], previously healthy. She [he] has sharp and throbbing backache that started gradually the day before.

She [he] rates her [his] pain as 9 out of 10 and says it interferes with her [his] functioning. Ms. [Mr.] Jones reportedly has not tried anything yet to relieve the pain, is normally healthy, and is not currently taking other medications.'

Each nurse was then asked to rate their perception of this pain on a scale from one to 100 (maximal pain).

When the nurse was presented with the vignette describing a man, they tended to rate his pain closer to 90, with an average of 80.

But when presented with one describing a woman, the average pain rating was 72. The disparity persisted regardless of whether the rating nurse was male or female.

Researchers called this gap a symptom of womens pain being generally overlooked, which has troubling societal and medical implications.

Women who seek a doctors help for pain simply tend to be taken less seriously than men, a product of centuries of women being painted as more emotional and dramatic than men and more likely to overstate their pain.

A 2009 study in the Journal of Womens Health reported women were twice as likely as men to be given a mental health diagnosis when they presented to the doctor with signs of heart disease.

Swedish researchers said in 2018: Women with pain can be perceived as hysterical, emotional, complaining, not wanting to get better, malingerers, and fabricating the pain, as if it is all in her head.

Other studies showed that woman with chronic pain rather are assigned psychological than somatic causes for their pain.

The disparity between the care that women get versus what men get plays out most starkly in instances of women presenting to the emergency department with signs of a heart attack.

A 2022 study found that men were around 22 percent more likely to be seen by a doctor immediately when presenting with chest pain than women were.

Women had to wait 29 percent longer than men to see a doctor, around 11 additional minutes. And when a person is in the midst of a heart attack, that 11 minutes can mean the difference between survival and death.
The World Health Organization has called a meeting of its Emergency Committee to address the international spread of a deadly strain of monkeypox.

Director-General of the WHO Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Wednesday that public health officials are concerned the virus has 'the potential for further international spread within and outside of Africa.'

The new strain of the virus was detected in the Democratic Republic of Congo in April that has evolved to become even more infectious and deadly - killing up to one in 10 people who catch it.

Now, it has spread outside the DRC, prompting the WHO to call on public health experts to advise 'on whether the outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern.'

The DRC is home to a densely packed population that frequently travels and moves across borders, raising the risk the new mpox strain would eventually spread beyond the country.

The WHO said the virus has now 'spread to previously unaffected provinces.'

In the past month, at least 50 Mpox cases have been reported in four other countries bordering the DRC - countries that have not experienced the virus before.

They include Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda.

Like in the previous Mpox outbreak, the new strain is predominantly affecting men who have sex with men, and those with multiple sex partners like sex workers.

The director general added the WHO is working with governments of the affected countries, as well as Africa's CDC and non-governmental agencies to 'understand and address the drivers of these outbreaks.'

He continued: 'Stopping transmission will require a comprehensive response, with communities at the center.'

As part of WHO's regional response, Dr Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it does not recommend travel restrictions on affected countries and it is requesting $15million from the United States to support surveillance, preparedness and response actions.

Mpox caused an international epidemic in 2022 when it spread to more than 100 countries and killed hundreds of people - including 58 Americans.

That outbreak was caused by the more mild clade 2 strain, which is rarely fatal.

But for more than a year, the DRC has been struggling to contain a deadlier version of the virus known as 'clade 1a,' which kills up to 10 percent of those infected.

The new mutated strain, dubbed 'clad 1b,' appears to be just as deadly.

Clad 1b has been confirmed in Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda and the virus detected in Burundi is still being analyzed.

Dr Adhanom Ghebreyesus said during a press conference the DRC has been 'experiencing a severe outbreak of Mpox,' since early this year and has recorded more than 14,000 cases of the virus.

There have been at least 511 deaths.

While the DRC has experienced Mpox outbreaks for decades, Dr Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the number of cases has surged in 2024 - with more recorded in the first six months of this year than in all of 2023.

CDC officials said the latest rise in mpox cases in DRC is the 'largest surge of mpox cases ever recorded.' It includes 19,919 cases and 975 deaths up until April 2024

The WHO is providing $1million to increase its response to the spread and is coordinating with humanitarian groups to get access to and distribute vaccines to affected areas.

Two vaccines have been backed by the WHO to prevent Mpox infection.

The organization recommends a vaccine within four days of contact with someone who has the virus or within up to 14 days if there are no symptoms.

Healthcare workers and men who have sex with men are advised to receive a vaccine even if they have had no Mpox exposure.

Symptoms of Mpox include a rash, skin lesions, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain and swollen lymph nodes.

It is spread through physical contact, such as kissing or sex, animals when cooking them, contaminated materials and pregnant women who can spread it to a fetus.

There is no direct cure for Mpox, but doctors aim to treat its symptoms, including clearing up the rash and managing pain.

Severe cases of Mpox can be deadly.
It turned out the 1,351 debt was run up almost a year earlier

Conor Burns, 29, only noticed the fraud when his credit score plummeted

Conor Burns, who is 29 and lives in London, has spent the last few months saving to move into a houseboat.

As he is taking out a loan to buy the boat he will need a spotless credit record, which he thought he had until March of this year.

To his dismay, he then discovered his credit score had plummeted 300 points - thanks to a fraud committed against him nearly a year earlier.

ID theft: Criminals took out a credit card in Mr Burns' name using an old address

A credit card with Vanquis Bank had been taken out in his name - but as the fraudsters used an old address and fake phone and email details, he didn't receive demands for payment and remained in the dark about this for months.

The fraudsters spent 1,351 over two weeks and failed to pay it back. Burns only realised when he checked his credit score and saw that it had dropped through the floor.

By this time, the debt had been sold to debt recovery company Lowells, who started demanding he pay back the money.

He quickly reported the fraud and obtained a crime reference number, before contacting Vanquis and his credit agencies in a bid to clear his name.

While an obvious scam had taken place, Burns was unable to get in touch with anyone at Vanquis, instead being left to deal with an automated system.

The bank told him they could not speak to him about the issue because he was not a previous customer, despite an account being opened in his name.

When he contacted the credit report agency Checkmyfile, he was simply told to contact Vanquis.

While the adverse effect on his credit score was a result of fraud, there was very little the credit agency could do in this instance because the debt had been passed to a recovery firm.

This can only be rectified once the bank the credit card has been taken out with has acknowledged the fraud.

How to avoid identity fraud

Unfortunately, Burns is not alone. The Financial Ombudsman says that while the most common types of fraud are when customers are tricked into handing over bank details or transferring money, ID theft is also common.

One of the difficulties is that it can be difficult to check unless you religiously check your credit score.

The credit agency Experian tells its customers that its important to re-register on the electoral roll when you move home, and update your address with lenders to try and prevent this type of fraud.

Redirecting your mail is also sensible because a few letters sent to an old address may be all fraudsters need to steal your identity.

What did Vanquis say?

This Is Money got in touch with Vanquis Bank to ask how scammers were able to make an account in Burns name, without any identity checks or confirmation.

Anyone looking to take out a Vanquis credit builder card needs address details going back three years, as well as information on employment, monthly income and spend and bank account details.

It is understood that at the point of application there were no fraud risks or concerns noted.

The fraud investigation was only launched in March this year after Burns contacted the bank, and it found that he had indeed been a victim of fraud after the criminals used his previous address.

At that time, Vanquis recalled the account from the debt collection agency and requested his credit file be cleared.

In May, Vanquis contacted Burns confirming that the account had been opened fraudulently but he had not been alerted because the confirmation letter was sent to his previous address.

A spokesperson for Vanquis told This Is Money: We confirm that an account opened under Mr. Burns' name was identified as identity fraud following his claim in March 2024.

'We took immediate action, including removing adverse information from his credit file. There was a communication delay due to Mr. Burnss change of address and we are pleased that he is satisfied with the outcome.'

Burns credit score has not yet been fully updated.

Have you had a credit card taken out in your name? Get in touch editor@thisismoney.co.uk
The City enforcer has done a good job in extracting 250million (215.5million) for British investors in funds managed by H2O investment management.

The London-based fund manager found itself in deep water in 2019 after it was over-exposed to illiquid securities connected to controversial German financier Lars Windhorst.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) opted to demand compensation for investors, rather than hitting H2O with fines, on the grounds that European regulators were better placed to deliver penalties.

The outcome illustrates the efforts of FCA chief executive Nikhil Rathi to deliver results for consumers rather than get hung up on bureaucracy.

It shows how investors need to be wise about asset managers who enjoy the high life.

Probe: The FCA opted to demand compensation for investors, rather than hitting H2O with fines, on the grounds that European regulators were better placed to deliver penalties

It found evidence of conflict of interest and more than 50 examples of H2O colleagues failing properly to declare hospitality, including the use of superyachts and private jets.

That would appear to put some lavish hospitality provided by, or offered to, some UK money managers in the shade.

The FCAs probe and settlement on behalf of UK investors in H2O is a reminder that it has unfinished business with errant investment guru Neil Woodford.

He, too, enjoyed the good things in life, with showjumping among his passions.

In March this year the FCA secured up to 185.7million in compensation for investors in the closed Woodford Equity Income fund from authorised corporate director Link after five years of work.

As helpful as that has been to savers in Woodford funds, it left unfinished business. My own investment in Woodford Patient Capital, now rebadged by Schroders, shows an 80pc loss in a period when markets (this weeks hiccough notwithstanding) soared.

The regulator put Neil Woodford on a warning notice in April, recognising a defective approach to managing the funds. Woodford disagrees with the FCA findings, describes the verdict as misconceived and is challenging the finding.

As presently constituted, there are layers of legal protections for alleged wrongdoers.

None of this is satisfying for Woodford investors who are seeking further redress through the courts and would like nothing better than to see the person they trusted with hard-earned savings brought to justice. It doesnt end there.

Investment platform Hargreaves Lansdown (HL) exposed up to 300,000 clients to Woodford-managed assets either directly or through its own-label funds.

HL is inclined to accept a 5.4billion takeover from a consortium of private equity firms led by CVC.

One trusts that, if there are to be new owners, they will understand the need to repair the reputational and financial damage done to clients.

Growth spurt

The habit of markets, the media and politicians to latch on to bits of economic data and over-interpret knows no bounds.

During the election campaign the Resolution Foundation (whose former chief executive Torsten Bell is now a Labour MP) was remarkably successful in propagating the idea that, on a per capita basis, Britons had become much poorer under the Tories.

One is never quite sure what is really happening to per capita output because there are so many moving parts, including the sharp rise in net legal immigration.

The size of the economic cake also is a moving feast. Recently, the Office for National Statistics said it underestimated growth in 2022  up 4.8 per cent, not 4.3 per cent.

That might seem a small adjustment but when Bank of England forecasts are so modest for 2024 and 2025 the half a percentage point change makes a big difference. Upgrades also are expected for 2023 and beyond.

Worst economy since the Second World War? Hooey!

King coal

Glencore has had its governance issues, but one cannot but admire its willingness to swim against the tide.

Splitting off the coal and carbon steel holdings, which generate cash, makes no sense and could fund investment in copper, among other things.

Not only that it, but it is ready if opportunities arise to double down on coal.

Why not? Someone needs to make weapons-grade virgin steel.
Glencore has scrapped plans to spin off its coal business, labelling the move common sense.

The decision comes after an overwhelming majority of its shareholders voted to keep hold of the highly profitable, but heavily polluting, division.

Glencore first announced plans to spin off the unit last November, bowing to pressure from green investors.

Rethink: Glencore first announced plans to spin off its coal unit last November, bowing to pressure from green investors

The move would have seen the unit merge with the steelmaking/coal division of recent acquisition, Canadas Teck Resources.

That combined group would have then been listed on the New York stock exchange as a separate business, which bosses said would boost shareholder returns.

But in a dramatic U-turn, the Swiss mining giant will now abandon plans 95 per cent of investors called for it to keep the coal unit, saying that would increase cash-generating capacity and accelerate and optimise the return of excess cashflows to shareholders.

Chief executive Gary Nagle said: Common sense has prevailed. The shareholders recognise that cash is king.

Nagle said the industry was now a dynamic space in which views on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues had shifted.

He said: The pendulum has swung back over the last nine to 12 months. The world has recognised the need for coal as we decarbonise.

Glencores board said it still preserved the option to consider demergers. But the move will probably anger environmental groups who have been pushing against coal as a big polluting fossil fuels.

Fossil fuel firms are feeling the push to cut their emissions but also keep profits high.

Matt Britzman, analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said that although green investors may be disappointed, the decision makes sense.

The coal portfolio is a cash cow, and its not all about thermal coal with steelmaking coal making up a large part too, he said.

Glencores coal business has cashed in from the crisis after Russia invaded Ukraine.

It is also one of the biggest miners and traders of copper, nickel and cobalt. Glencore said first-half profits fell 33 per cent year-on-year to 5billion. Revenues climbed 9 per cent to 92billion.

Glencore shares rose 2.8 per cent, or 11.05p, to 404.2p.

But its not only Glencore thats scrapping a green agenda. Last week BP said it will drill a new oilfield in the Gulf of Mexico in a focus on returning cash to investors.
A once high-flying asset manager will pay out 215million to investors who have cash trapped in illiquid funds linked to German financier Lars Windhorst.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has said H2O Asset Management must return money to shareholders after it failed to carry out proper due diligence on hard-to-sell securities tied to Tennor, a group founded by Windhorst (pictured with girlfriend Christine Barner).

It also found H2O lacked adequate procedures to manage conflicts of interest.

Scandals: Lars Windhorst (pictured with girlfriend Christine Barner) first shot to fame in the 1990s when he was hailed as a wunderkind of German business

That included over 50 instances where hospitality had been received but was not properly declared, including the use of a superyacht and private jet.

Founded in 2010, H2O was a star of European investment under chief executive Bruno Crastes, overseeing more than 26billion of assets.

But it suffered an investor exodus in 2019 after its exposure to Windhorst firms was revealed.

Withdrawals prompted the group to freeze 1.4billion of funds the following year, effectively trapping investors.

The group was fined a record 64million by French authorities in 2023.

But instead of a hefty fine, the FCA has imposed an order on H2O to repay investors whose funds had been trapped.

Aside from due diligence and conflict of interest failings, H2O provided regulators with false and misleading statements and documentation including fabricated records and minutes of meetings, the FCA said.

H2Os job was to manage funds properly and protect investors.

It failed to do this and, to make matters worse, repeatedly provided misleading information to the FCA, said Steve Smart, FCA director of enforcement and market oversight.

Windhorst shot to fame in the 1990s but the dotcom crash hit his ventures and he filed for personal bankruptcy in 2003.

He later rebuilt his fortune but in 2010 received a suspended prison sentence for breach of trust in Germany.

H2Os chief Loic Guilloux said: We have significantly improved and consolidated our organisation and strengthened risk management and compliance teams, governance and internal procedures. These changes ensure that lessons from this period are embedded in our culture.
Appetite for weight loss drugs is proving insatiable but pharma giant Novo Nordisk is having difficulties fulfilling the demand.

The Ozempic maker has been the winner of the miracle drug boom so far but yesterday the Danish firm warned profits for the year would be lower than initially expected as it tries to ramp up production.

Last year Novo Nordisk  now worth 210billion  outstripped fashion giant LVMH as Europes biggest company.

Shares, which trade on the Copenhagen stock market, have risen 51 per cent per cent over the past year.

But it has struggled to keep up with soaring demand as interest in both Wegovy and Ozempic gains pace across the world.

Blubber buster: Last year Novo Nordisk, led by chief exec Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen (pictured), outstripped fashion giant LVMH as Europes biggest company

Wegovy is a weekly injection and tricks the body into thinking it is full.

The drug is available on the NHS, while sister drug Ozempics popularity has taken off in the US. Celebrity fans include Tesla billionaire Elon Musk and actress Rebel Wilson.

British pharmacies have had shortages of Wegovy in recent months, fuelling concerns about unlicensed versions being sold to vulnerable consumers online.

Novo put slimmer profit expectations down to expected, continued periodic supply constraints with producing the drugs.

Unprecedented levels of demand are creating significant supply issues, AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould said, adding that it was in a sense is a nice problem to have.

The group has factories in nine countries including Algeria, Brazil, China, Denmark, France, Iran, Japan, Russia and the US.

Novo is investing heavily in increasing production, including last month putting 3.2billion into a new factory in North Carolina in the US.

President and chief executive, Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen, attempted to downplay worries, saying it had pumped lots of money into increasing supply.

But it has been forced to cap doses for new patients in the US to make sure existing users can complete their courses.

Novo has now pencilled in an annual profits rise by between 20 per cent and 28 per cent this year, compared to a previous steer for 22 per cent and 30 per cent.

This was also down to a charge relating to experimental blood pressure drug Ocedurenone failing a clinical trial. The rare underperformance spooked investors, with shares falling 6.7 per cent yesterday.

Sales of its flagship Wegovy drug rose 53 per cent to 1.34billion between April and June.

But analysts had thought they would reach 1.56billion. Ozempic sales also missed expectations.

The company still saw its total sales increase by 25 per cent to 15.4billion over the first six months of the year.
Tragedy: Six people were killed when a cargo ship smashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in March

Lloyd's of London insurer Hiscox has set aside 22million to cover claims linked to collapse of the Baltimore bridge in the US.

The disaster in March, when a cargo ship smashed into the a bridge and killed six people, was the prelude to a difficult summer for insurers.

An early start to the hurricane season wreaked havoc, alongside last months global IT meltdown  neither affected Hiscox however.

The update came as the company, which was last month touted as a takeover target amid reports that rivals in Japan and Italy were poised to swoop, said profits rose 7.1 per cent to 223million in the first half, lower than analysts expected.

Shares fell 1.8 per cent, or 21p, to 1148p.
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.
A criminal psychologist says an upcoming court hearing over the alleged murder of Samantha Murphy might finally provide some answers into the mother-of-three's disappearance.

Patrick Orren Stephenson, 22, is set to face Ballarat Magistrates' Court for a committal mention via video link on Thursday, accused of murdering Ms Murphy.

Many are hoping this week's hearing will begin to answer questions as to why Stephenson allegedly killed her, after he was charged on March 7, more than four weeks after the mother-of-three went missing.

Ms Murphy vanished without a trace after she left her home on Eureka Street in Ballarat East, Victoria, on the morning of February 4.

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.

Months of desperate searches have failed to find any trace of Ms Murphy's body, only resulting in the mysterious discovery of her mobile phone at a dam.

Police have since remained tight-lipped about any information surrounding the phone and any other evidence which led to the arrest of Stephenson.

However, criminal psychologist Dr Tim Watson-Munro said that a lack of physical evidence - such as Ms Murphy's body or a murder weapon - meant prosecutors would mostly rely on technological evidence.

The alleged killer of missing mother-of-three, Samantha Murphy (pictured), will face court on Thursday preceding a hearing that will reveal police's case against him

This could include tracking data relating to Ms Murphy and Stephenson's phones.

'I think (prosecutors have) got their work cut out for them in the absence of a body, in the absence of witnesses, in the absence of a motive - or certainly one that we know about or don't know about,' Dr Watson-Munro told Daily Mail Australia.

'And an absence of a record of interview or any confessions or acknowledgments referable to the alleged crime.

'There may be other evidence that we don't know about, and if there is I'd revise my opinion.'

Patrick Orren Stephenson (pictured) is accused of killing the mother-of-three after she vanished on a 14km run through Woowookrung National Park on the morning of February 4

Dr Watson-Munro said the lack of a body would be concerning for police.

'Usually, police find a body, a weapon, corroborative evidence that supports their claims that might be enough then for the individual to start talking.'

He added that six months of searches from Ballarat locals had been made extremely difficult because the area is 'riddled' with abandoned mines.

'Some of them run very deep... you'd be looking for a needle in a haystack, I suspect,' he said.

The case is one of the highest priority criminal investigations for Victoria Police, with the missing persons squad working tirelessly to compile compelling evidence for the 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.

Police have been tight-lipped regarding details of evidence found during the investigation but will be forced to reveal more at an upcoming committal hearing (police divers pictured at a dam)

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.

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, who remains in custody, has reserved his right to silence.
As the Trump team ratchets up its attacks on presidential opponent Kamala Harris, one member of the Republican candidate's camp has been particularly vitriolic.

Donald Trump Jr's fiancee and Trump campaign firebrand Kimberly Guilfoyle has recently flooded the airwaves and social media blasting Harris as a 'fraud on every level', a 'DEI hire', and a failed prosecutor who 'supports anarchy, literally.'

She joins the numerous Republicans who have publicly bashed Harris's bid for president since she became the presumptive Democratic nominee following Joe Biden's withdrawal last month.

But DailyMail.com can reveal that Guilfoyle's animosity towards Harris goes beyond their political differences and appears to stem from a years-long grudge dating back to when they were working in the San Francisco District Attorney's Office.

The feud began in the early 2000s after Guilfoyle, a local prosecutor, accused then assistant district attorney Harris of trying to block her from returning to her previous job with the DA.

Trump campaign supporter Kimberly Guilfoyle's scorn towards Kamala Harris appears to go beyond politics and opposing parties, DailyMail.com can reveal

Long before Harris became a Republican adversary and opponent to Guilfoyle's presidential candidate, Donald Trump, the pair had worked as prosecutors in the San Francisco, where Guilfoyle's then-husband Gavin Newsom was mayor. They are pictured volunteering in 2004

Guilfoyle has recently flooded the airwaves and social media blasting Harris as a 'fraud on every level', a 'DEI hire', and a failed prosecutor

The falling-out even made the local paper in a 2003 column for the San Francisco Chronicle headlined, 'Brains, brio, beauty  and wounded feelings.'

Speaking to the Chronicle at the time, Guilfoyle slammed Harris for the 'frosty and underhanded' treatment she got from her superior.

'The bottom line is she didn't want me there,' she said.

People who knew them as colleagues working together at the DA's office in 2000 when Guilfoyle was dating future husband Gavin Newsom, were not surprised to see Guilfoyle reviving an old rivalry.

Now Don Jr.'s fiancee, she's spent recent days stepping up attacks on her former nemesis who's now pursuing the nation's highest office.

But Guilfoyle's early aughts' critique of Harris, pales in comparison to today's assessment.

'KAMALA HARRIS IS A FRAUD ON EVERY LEVEL,' reads one posting on Guilfoyle's Instagram account, which also features her laughing and agreeing with former President Donald Trump's assessment that she 'became black' only later in life.

According to the 2003 column, Guilfoyle was 'still smarting' from the perceived slight three years earlier, when she was looking to move back to San Francisco from Los Angeles to be with Newsom, her then boyfriend who was city supervisor.

'You have to understand, I came with an excellent resume, and talented women should support other talented women,' Guilfoyle told the paper at the time.

She still managed to muster some kind words for Harris who was running for San Francisco DA.

Guilfoyle lost her job at the district's attorney's office in the mid-1990s after District Attorney Terence Hallinan (left) was elected and cleaned house. It was under Hallinan's tenure that Harris (pictured right in 2003) joined the DA's office

Guilfoyle had been dating first husband Gavin Newsom at the time and ended up taking a job with DA's office in Los Angeles after the shake up

Guilfoyle called her 'very smart' and a 'good speaker' who 'will work very hard' if elected, The Chronicle reported.

Andrew Ross, one of the two Chronicle journalists who reported the story, told DailyMail.com this week that Guilfoyle and Harris were 'two ambitious women vying for prominence in San Francisco's political pond and that included high society.'

Guilfoyle, a San Francisco native, was working in the district attorney's office in the mid-1990s but lost her job when newly-elected District Attorney Terence Hallinan cleaned house to bring in some of his own employees.

So Guilfoyle took a job with the district attorney's office in Los Angeles.

Around that time, Harris was a rising star in the nearby Alameda County District Attorney's Office in Oakland, alongside powerful boyfriend Willie Brown, the then-Mayor of San Francisco and former speaker of the California State Assembly who appointed her to two state commissions.

Hallinan's chief assistant Richard Iglehart later recruited Harris in 1998 to supervise the district attorney's career criminal unit, the Chronicle reported.

It wasn't until Iglehart left in 2000 and local lawyer Darrell Salomon took his place that Guilfoyle began reaching out to staffers about returning to the Golden City.

'During that time, Kim called me,' said Paul Henderson, a longtime friend and former colleague of Guilfoyle's in the district attorney's office.

'She was making calls to everyone, saying, ''I'm trying to come back. Can you help me? Can you say positive things?'

'Kamala was a much more senior lawyer at the time,' Henderson explained. 'Either Kamala didn't return the call or didn't get excited about it and be like "Yeah girl, for sure, let me make some calls, let me talk to Terrence."

He said Guilfoyle, in speaking about Harris, would tell him, "She doesn't like me. She didn't want me in the office, and she tried to block me.'

Around that time, Harris was a rising star in the nearby Alameda County District Attorney's Office in Oakland, alongside powerful boyfriend and mayor of San Francisco Willie Brown (pictured)

Harris would eventually run for San Francisco DA and get elected in 2003. She is pictured being sworn into office in January 2004

Then San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom is seen walking with newly elected San Francisco District Attorney Kamala Harris in 2004

As Guilfoyle explained to the Chronicle in 2003, Harris became aware of Guilfoyle's plan and retrieved her resume.

'She called me and said basically that she was on the hiring committee and in charge of the budget for the DA's office, and that I should have gone through her if I wanted to return to the DA's office  and that there was no money to hire me.'

Guilfoyle told the Chronicle she then called the office to find out that there was no such hiring committee, and that Harris had no say in the matter.

The Chronicle also spoke with Harris, who shared a different version of what happened.

'I never discouraged her from joining the office,' she told the paper. 'I never suggested to her that there wasn't a job for her in the San Francisco DA's office  of that I'm very clear.'

She acknowledged she called Guilfoyle in LA, but said it was 'to see if she needed any help.'

Guilfoyle did land a job in the office a few months later.

In the 2003 column, when Harris was running for district attorney, she uderplayed the drama.

'I've seen Kimberly a number of times over the last few months,' Harris told the Chronicle. 'We have a great rapport and have great respect for each other.

'I think she is a great lawyer, and I look forward to working with her,' Harris added.

Guilfoyle, who would eventually leave the district attorney's office to work on her husband's campaign in 2003, accused Harris of trying to block her from returning to her old job

These days, the two women are further divided by their politics. Guilfoyle would eventually divorce Gavin Newsom, now the Democratic governor of California, pictured with Vice President Harris in 2018

Meanwhile, Guilfoyle has crossed over to the right and is now engaged to marry Donald Trump Jr and is a major player in Trump's campaign

Speaking to DailyMail.com, Ross, even as the author of the column, admitted that he didn't know who to believe.

'Exactly whose version of events was true was almost less relevant than the fact that there was a real rivalry and jockeying between them for recognition,' he said.

Guilfoyle would eventually go on to leave the district attorney's office around that time to go work on her husband's campaign, before moving to New York to become a legal commentator on Court TV, CNN, and Fox News.

She and Newsom divorced in 2006.

After another marriage and divorce, she became engaged to Don Jr. in 2018.

Since her San Francisco days, she's become a Trump firebrand, rallying crowds at the Republican National Convention and promoting the campaign on cable TV and social media.

Harris, who rose from district attorney to California attorney general to the U.S. senator and then President Joe Biden's VP, is now the Democratic nominee for president.

Ross told DailyMail.com he finds it surreal but also not so surprising to see Guilfoyle taking off her gloves in the renewed battle against Harris two decades later.

Guilfoyle hasn't been shy about expressing her disapproval towards Harris, often sharing memes and anti-Harris content on Instagram

In one scathing Instagram post, she blasted Harris for her 'dangerous policies and failed leadership'

'Who'd have thunkat the time that this rivalry would one day be center stage in an American election, with Kamala running for president and Kimberly as Don Jr.'s fiance and a major player in Trump's campaign.'

Paul Henderson, former chief of administration in the DA's office, said he remains close with Guilfoyle, even if he is a steadfast Democrat who previously served as a policy advisor for the Biden campaign.

'Kimberly and I are good friends,' he said. 'We had the same modeling agent in high school. We shared an office in the DA's office for several years, and I've continued to be her friend. We just don't talk politics anymore.'

Knowing both women, Henderson said, he believes the two secretly respect each other.

'I know Kimberly's not a fan, obviously,' he said. 'I see all her stuff. But I maintain my own cognitive dissonance in being her friend.

'I think she's in a tough spot,' he added. 'I mean, what can she say? She can't be neutral on this.

'I think Kimberly has a role to play and she's playing it. She's got to be an advocate. And she's a very good lawyer, she really is. I still like her and respect her.'
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey fended off a fiery challenge from Trump attorney Will Scharf Tuesday night in the Republican primary.

It was the first time voters weighed in on Bailey's performance - he was appointed to the seat in 2022 after Eric Schmitt left for the Senate.

Trump curiously endorsed both Bailey and his attorney Scharf in the race.

'This victory is for the hardworking Missourians who have fought tirelessly alongside me over the past 18 months,' Bailey wrote on X in pronouncing victory. 'Your dedication and passion have been the driving force behind this incredible triumph. Together, we WILL keep Missouri strong, safe, and free.'

Scharf, meanwhile, conceded and endorsed Bailey.

'Tonight we came up short. We always knew that challenging an incumbent and the Jefferson City establishment would be difficult, and despite the tremendous grassroots energy around our campaign Andrew Bailey has certainly earned a full term in office. He has my unqualified support in the general election, and I hope that he will do Missouri proud in the coming years.'

Both of Missouri's senators, Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, congratulated Bailey on his win.

In the governor's race, Donald Trump has endorsed three of the nine candidates who are in the running: Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and state Sen. Bill Eigel. Republican Gov. Mike Parson is term-limited and cannot seek reelection. That race has not yet been called.

Despite almost no daylight policy-wise between Scharf and Bailey, the race has become so intense that it is now one of the most expensive down-ballot races in the country at nearly $20 million.

Attorney General Andrew Bailey is defending his seat

Trump attorney Will Scharf launched a primary challenge to Bailey for Missouri AG

'These two men are truly outstanding in every way, shape, and form,' Trump wrote in his Truth Social endorsemenr. 'I am honored to give both Andrew Bailey and Will Scharf my Complete and Total Endorsement  NEITHER ONE WILL EVER LET YOU DOWN!'

Bailey's record on crime is in the spotlight in a new ad and mailers being funded by a political action committee supporting Scharf.

It blames Bailey for the death of police officer Mason Griffith, who was shot and killed in the line of duty in March 2023 at age 34.

Now, the widow of the slain cop is demanding that her late husband be left out of the contentious campaign as she raises two young sons.

Jennifer Griffith says the ads have sent her family spiraling once again and is demanding they cease.

'They're hitting this pretty hard,' Griffith told DailyMail.com, adding that she's received three mail ads, countless phone calls, surveys and text messages with videos exploiting her husband's death.

'I have to explain to my son every time he sees a commercial on TV why Kenneth Simpson's face is on TV,' she added, referring to her husband's alleged killer.

Alleged cop killer Kenneth Simpson had a long history of run-ins with the police beginning in 2004. He spent the next decade in and out or prison, according to court records.

The ad primarily hits Bailey for his time as assistant prosecutor in Warren County in 2017 when he handled multiple cases involving Simpson.

Simpson was arrested, charged and released on bond multiple times in the fall of 2017 for allegedly punching his father in the face and possessing brass knuckles, two misdemeanors.

He ended up spending 10 days in jail for unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia under Bailey's prosecution. A judge sentenced him to another six months for unlawful possession of a weapon.

The pro-Scharf PAC's attack ads and mailers go on the offense against Bailey, saying Simpson's short sentences allowed him to commit more crimes.

'As a prosecutor, Bailey went easy on a violent career felon who once shot up a cop car,' the contentious ad states.

'Bailey knew that, and yet charged him with mere misdemeanors after he struck again, out within months,' the ad went on.

At the time of the shooting, Simpson had been out on bail for crimes that were being prosecuted after Bailey had left the prosecutor's office.

The widow of a slain cop in Missouri is demanding those backing Trump attorney Will Scharf, who is running for attorney general, stop throwing her late husband into the middle of his campaign

Kelly King, Bailey's successor in the Warren County prosecutor's office, claimed she had asked a judge to revoke Simpson's bail but was denied.

After his arrest for shooting Griffith, Simpson told police he was on the run for several warrants.He told them he believed he was going to die and decided to commit 'suicide by cop.'

He is accused of killing police officer Mason Griffith and wounding officer Adam Sullentrup.

Police said Simpson had six felony warrants out of Warren County and one misdemeanor warrant from Franklin County.

Bailey's team is accusing the pro-Scharf PAC of 'exploiting' the tragedy during the campaign.

Scharf, as a candidate, is prohibited from coordinating with PACs like Defend Missouri on messaging or strategy.
The incendiary views from across the Pond have sparked fierce debate, but Sir Keir Starmer may rue the day he took the bait from Elon Musk.

The worlds richest individual craves controversy and is never too busy with his sprawling technology empire that he cant find time for a good scrap on social media. Even he admits its a compulsion that has done him no favours.

The pugnacious billionaire entrepreneur has crossed swords with everyone from a British expat cave diver in Thailand (whom he labelled pedo guy for daring to criticise Musks half-baked idea of using his submarine to free schoolboys trapped in a cave), to Facebook founder and old rival Mark Zuckerberg, whom he challenged to a cage fight.

The worlds richest individual craves controversy and is never too busy with his sprawling technology empire that he cant find time for a good scrap on social media

At the weekend, Musk incensed British political leaders after he responded to shocking footage of the violent rioting in the UK  specifically of people shooting fireworks at police  by saying that civil war is inevitable

It is likely that Musk would have got a good pounding from the younger, fitter and martial arts-trained Zuckerberg had they actually fought, but it remains to be seen who will come out on top of his new bout with the UK Government.

At the weekend, Musk incensed British political leaders after he responded to shocking footage of the violent rioting in the UK  specifically of people shooting fireworks at police  by saying that civil war is inevitable.

He made that provocative observation, of course, on X (formerly Twitter) the social media platform he owns and has shaped in his image, and on which he has a jaw-dropping 193 million followers.

The Prime Ministers spokesman said there was no justification for Musks comment and, making clear that it was particularly ripe coming from the boss of X, added that social media companies can and should be doing more to counter misleading and inflammatory material hosted on their platforms.

The pugnacious billionaire entrepreneur has crossed swords with everyone, including Facebook founder and old rival Mark Zuckerberg, whom he challenged to a cage fight

As far as 53-year-old Musk, a self-described free speech absolutist and relentless tweeter was concerned, the gauntlet had been thrown down and he picked it up with glee.

Yesterday he posted and re-posted a string of videos, photos and memes suggesting that the UK is arresting and even imprisoning people for making offensive remarks on social media and that British police have been treating Asian criminals and troublemakers with kid gloves.

One of the images showed the main character from the animated comedy series Family Guy strapped to the  electric chair. He captioned it: In 2030 for making a Facebook comment that the UK government didnt like.

He also shared footage apparently showing police arresting an unseen man for his social media activities  although it was unclear if it was Jordan Parlour, the first man in the UK to be charged with trying to stir up racial hatred on Facebook during the riots.

A spokesperson for PM Keir Starmer said there was no justification for Musks comment and added that social media companies can and should be doing more to counter misleading and inflammatory material hosted on their platforms

Many people might share Musks contempt for officers devoting resources to combating offensive online comment  or even agree with claims that ethnic minority troublemakers have been treated more leniently by British police.

But, as ever, the man who has compared his unremitting Twitter output to Niagara Falls, has overdone it.

Making a mockery of Xs capabilities  under his ownership  to weed out misinformation, he asked his platforms watchdog (called Community Notes) to check out the authenticity of some factually dubious content even as he was spreading it.

Some will question whether tech barons can afford to keep behaving in such a cavalier fashion when governments are finally starting to clamp down on their under-policed industry. A US federal court has just delivered a landmark ruling declaring online search giant Google to be a monopoly  a decision that might lead to it being broken up.

Meanwhile, UK media regulator Ofcom has issued a statement reminding X and other social media companies of their new responsibilities under the Online Safety Act to take down illegal content and apply their terms of service, which often ban hate speech and disinformation.

Labour MPs Chi Onwurah and Dawn Butler, both candidates to chair the Commons science, innovation and technology committee, told the Politico website that, if chosen, theyd pressure Musk and other tech bosses to answer questions about the role of social media platforms in stirring up unrest in the UK.

Even someone as famously cocky as Musk must appreciate that this is not the perfect time to be goading Downing Street, or any Western government for that matter.

His biographer, Walter Isaacson, who spent months shadowing the mercurial genius, says Musk cannot help himself when it comes to stirring the pot and that hes addicted to drama

Yet those who have spent any time with Elon Musk say he cannot help himself when it comes to stirring the pot. Hes addicted to drama, hes addicted to risk and whenever things seem to be going smoothly he almost has a compulsion to stir things up, said his biographer Walter Isaacson, who spent months shadowing the mercurial genius.

Actress Amber Heard, a former girlfriend of Musk, put it more succinctly, telling Isaacson: Elon loves fire and sometimes it burns him. His brother, Kimbal, says he is a drama magnet... thats his compulsion, the theme of his life.Isaacson observes that Musk has multiple personalities.

One is the brilliant engineer and far-sighted businessman currently estimated to be worth 175billion. Another, however, is what Isaacson called Musks demon mode where he turns really dark.

A personality, he adds, that has proved particularly problematic in his acquiring of Twitter which requires more emotional intelligence than his other businesses such as electric car maker Tesla and rocket company SpaceX.

Yesterday, Musk posted a string of videos, photos and memes suggesting that the UK is arresting and even imprisoning people for making offensive remarks on social media. One of the images showed the main character from Family Guy strapped to the  electric chair

Musk, who over the years has displayed a jaw-dropping weakness for childish spats even with complete strangers on social media, freely admits that he is chronically impulsive.

He posted 19,000 tweets over a decade, many of them antagonistic. My tweets are like Niagara Falls sometimes and they come too fast, he confided to Isaacson.

Musk is certainly a complicated personality. Aside from a toxic childhood, he has revealed he has Aspergers syndrome and that, like many at the top of Silicon Valley, is notoriously bad at empathising with other people.

But of course he isnt just wading in to battle against the Starmer government because, scarred by those years of remorseless school and paternal bullying (which his father Errol has denied), he likes to throw his weight around now hes the Big-I-Am. Politically, Musk  a former Democrat  has veered ever more to the Right and he recently endorsed Donald Trump for President.

He made clear that he wanted to use Twitter as a culture wars weapon against Silicon Valley wokery long before he paid $44billion (35bn) for it in 2022.

Its surely no coincidence hes attacking the state of the UK now a Labour government is in power.

Politically, Musk  a former Democrat  has veered ever more to the Right and he recently endorsed Donald Trump for president

This is hardly the first time a foreign plutocrat  Musk has South African, Canadian and US citizenship  has indelicately chosen to weigh in on a domestic crisis, but at least this one appears to have no particular animus towards Britain.

It might be quite the opposite. Musk has attributed his success in part to British books he devoured as a child, namely The Lord Of The Rings and The Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy.

In fact, in January, he dispelled a common assumption that he is of Afrikaner heritage, comparing himself to his literary hero JRR Tolkien in a social media post in which he wrote: Small correction: I am from a British/English background, not an Afrikaner background (similar to JRR Tolkien, who was also born in South Africa).

Isaacson devoted much of his biography of the man to Musks troubled childhood in South Africa and tortured relationship with his father.

Small, nerdy and socially awkward, Musk was beaten up at school and at wilderness survival camps he described as a paramilitary Lord Of The Flies to the point he was once hospitalised.

His Jekyll and Hyde father, he claims, astonishingly took the bullies side and berated his son.

US politicians have expressed mounting concern over just how powerful Musk is becoming, especially since he owns a satellite network  Starlink  that provides internet coverage to Ukraine and is crucial to its war effort

Adversity shaped me. My pain threshold became very high, says Musk. Or did it make him thirst for revenge?

Isaacson argued that Musk wanted to buy Twitter because, having suffered appallingly at school, he wanted control of the worlds ultimate playground.

In the US, politicians have expressed mounting concern over just how powerful Musk is becoming, especially since he owns a satellite network  Starlink  that provides internet coverage to Ukraine and is crucial to its war effort. (At one point, he reportedly considered pulling the  service from Ukraine as he feared it was singling him out for Moscows disfavour.)

At the same time, he is a great believer in the controversial Silicon Valley mantra that business success comes from disruption, from shaking up the status quo.

Hes certainly trying to do that now in Britain, just as the edges of our social fabric begin to fray.
The little boy was about five. Blond hair. It is now over four years since Rosie Nelson last saw his face, and what he was doing (or, more correctly, being forced to do). The image will never, ever leave her.

I think about that little boy every single day, she says. I wonder how old is he now? Where is he? Who is he?

Her thoughts went directly to this child when, last week, she heard that Huw Edwards, the BBC newsreader, had pleaded guilty to three charges of making indecent images of children. Then to Huw Edwardss wife, Vicky Flind.

Rosie Nelson called the police on her then partner, after coming across a computer memory card containing a stash of child abuse images and videos  almost 600, nearly 200 in the most serious Category A group

My heart goes out to her, because I was that woman, she says. I was the one standing in the shower trying to scrape off my own skin. If I could have taken it off and bleached it, I would have. To discover that the man who you have loved, shared your life with, been intimate with, was part of... this.

And Huw Edwardss poor children. They will never be able to move on properly from this. Never. Shame on Huw Edwards. Shame on him. Everyone who is connected with him must be looking back, wondering. Everyone.

His mother. His sister. Even his teacher, if he or she is still around. They will be sat there thinking Oh My God. 

In the years since Rosie uncovered her partners appalling secret, she has been in touch with 600 women just like Huw Edwardss wife, Vicky Flind (pictured with her now estranged husband)

It was the police, we now know, who knocked on Edwardss door while investigating another offender.

In 2020, Rosie called the police on her then partner herself, after coming across a computer memory card containing a stash of child abuse images and videos  almost 600, nearly 200 in the most serious Category A group. It was the end of her relationship, and almost her sanity.

Although much has been made of the fact that Edwards now faces sentencing on charges that carry a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, Rosie scoffs at the idea that any sort of fitting justice will be served.

Astonishingly, her ex, businessman Peter Loram, who was 39 at the time of his conviction in July 2021, hasnt spent a night in jail.

And the number of images he had was much greater that the number Huw Edwards had. He was sentenced to nine months, but it was suspended for two years. Where is the justice in that? In my eyes, he has escaped justice, my ex got away with it. And I will be floored if Huw Edwards gets a custodial sentence.

Astonishingly, Rosie's ex, businessman Peter Loram (pictured), who was 39 at the time of his conviction in July 2021, hasnt spent a night in jail

Where to even begin with the question of how it feels to discover your partner is a paedophile?

There are several times during this interview when Rosie, 51, breaks down and simply cries, but her anger at how society refuses to confront this issue, and leaves the wives and the partners feeling alone is stronger than her pain.

Rosie has counselled other women about how to prevent such a discovery destroying them. She tells me that in the years since she uncovered her partners appalling secret, she has been in touch with 600 women just like Huw Edwardss wife.

And, although I am sure [Vicky Flind] will be feeling very alone, she is not. There are many of us out there. In fact there are hundreds of us, maybe thousands, in Britain. And its not just the wives and partners that are affected by this. Its the brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, children, cousins, even the work colleagues.

Finding out your partner is a paedophile doesnt just turn your life upside down. It destroys it. I still feel physically sick about what I saw. That little blond boy will never leave me. The shame of it. It seeps into your soul.

As well as being a mother, Rosie is a former childminder. I think its hardwired into women to just protect the children. I know its not all women, but that need to make the children safe is hardwired, visceral. Actually, its even more than physical. I think its almost spiritual.

Shame, too, she says, on the people, the online commentators, who waded into the debate about what Huw Edwards did, and found excuses for him. She has been there, too.

One of my exs family members yelled at me afterwards for making a big thing of this. They said but he didnt do anything. He didnt touch those children. He was only looking. Do they not realise that the only reason these children are abused is so that the Petes and the Huw Edwardses of this world can only look?

Rosies story begins in 1996, when she was the single mum of an 11-year-old boy, but thought shed struck relationship gold with perfect gentleman Peter Loram. They met on dating site Plenty of Fish.

Charismatic, and sharing her love of the outdoors, he seemed a dependable type. He whisked her to nice restaurants, and they enjoyed weekends in the Lake District.

He ran his own company (and she later joined him, helping in their home office). By their fourth anniversary together, in 2020 during lockdown, they were living and working together.

It was to this home office  where Id often use his computer. He never bothered about me doing that  she went one day, to find the card reader for her new credit card.

It wasnt where it usually was, so I went poking around, looking for it, she says. There were a few shoe boxes and in one were a load of electrical leads  and the card reader. I took it out, thinking Why has he put it in there? 

Then she noticed an SD memory card, of the sort used to store files and pictures. I just thought weird, wondered what it was doing there.

Her mind went to one place.

While looking for something in her ex's home office, Rosie came across a hidden memory card - she was shocked by what she found on it when she put it in her laptop

I thought porn,  she admits. I thought, The bugger has been watching saucy videos, so I put it in the laptop. I thought Id see a woman tied to a chair, being spanked.

She wouldnt have been thrilled by that either, but the video that started playing automatically featured the little blond boy and shocked her so much that immediately, instinctively, she shut the file down.

Then she sat, shaking. I actually thought I must have been mistaken. It must have been something that I just misinterpreted, and it was going to lead on to a comedy clip.

She inserted it again, and then her world fell apart. I had not been mistaken. And this time a menu popped up, with about 20 titles.

I only saw about four or five seconds of the video, but what I saw will scar me for life.

She knows now that some women, when they find a similar cache, agonise for days, weeks, about what to do, aware of how sounding the alarm will send their whole world crashing down. Rosie did not hesitate.

I called the police. It was instinctive. Robotic. I cant remember my exact words, but I said Id found... something, child porn. They said We will come now. But Pete was due home from work. I said, I do not want this man in my house. They said, Lock the doors. 

Rosie adds: I locked my son and myself in the house, but we went out the back and were sort of hiding around the corner waiting for them to arrive. Pete arrived before they did and just thought he was locked out. He was shouting, Rosie, Rosie.

Then the police arrived. We watched as he was arrested.

She recalls how, still reeling, unable to breathe, she had to do the worst thing I have ever had to do in my life, which was to ask my 15-year-old son if this man  this boyfriend that I had brought into our home  had ever touched him, or looked at him, or behaved in any way that I needed to be concerned about.

The answer was no, but the distress of that moment is still vivid, and she is crying now.

And its the first place our thoughts go, to the children, she says. When Peter was convicted, I was contacted by a woman he had dated eight years previously. She said, I have children. Should I be worried? 

The justice system seemed to work swiftly and efficiently. Loram was found to be in possession of 240 movies and 204 videos. The images were of children aged between two and 15.

In July of that year he appeared in court, and admitted three counts of making indecent images (by downloading them), and was given a nine-month sentence, suspended for two years.

He was also put on the sex offenders register and ordered to take a treatment course during 30 days of rehabilitation activities.

She has only seen her ex once since  when their dog Bentley, whom he had taken after the split, died, and she agreed to go with him to scatter the ashes. It was a difficult day.

But I remember him telling me even then that his counsellor didnt think hed do time. I couldnt believe it. Where is the deterrent there? What stops these men doing it again?

Our conversation today keeps returning to the (arguably much heftier) sentence meted out to the wives and families of those guilty of possessing child abuse images. Rosie set up a support group herself, because she realised there was a black hole that families fall into.

What I found afterwards was that there simply isnt any support. The police basically told me that. They said, You are not a victim, so Victim Support dont want to know. In the wider world, no one even wants to talk about it. Its still taboo. If you mention the word paedophile, the general reaction is, We dont want to hear this.

So you are left with the shame, and the guilt and the questions. I asked myself How could I have been so stupid? How could I not have known? People assume the wives and partners must know. They will assume that of Huw Edwardss wife. Well, I will bet she did not know.

The wives are always plunged into an impossible place, the objects of gossip and assumption, Rosie points out. She tells me that one friend made a clumsy remark wondering if Peter had found Rosies tiny frame attractive because of his paedophile tastes, and it has haunted her. Because I am tiny. I am flat-chested. I wear a childs age 13 clothes from Next. You drive yourself mad wondering about that.

Actually, she was possibly better placed that most to deal with this. Rosie had also done some training as a psychotherapist.

So I probably did have the coping mechanisms  although I will say they went out the window when it actually happened.

What I did have was plenty of people around me, friends who were therapists. I did have support, but most women dont.

It is remarkable that she rebuilt her life at all, but she has. Three years after her ex was convicted, she is marrying again, but it has been a difficult journey. She does not want to name her fiance, but says she met him online, and took her niece with her on their first date because I was so terrified.

There was a point at which I never thought I could trust a man again. It was a long, long time before I allowed myself to open up. Longer still before I would be intimate. Even now, I am not living with my partner.

When he proposed, I said, I think I have been pushing you away for years, and he said, I know, and I understand why.

Its only his patience, and the fact he is a decent man, that has made me feel able to let him in, because when you find out that you trusted the wrong person, that your whole life with him was built on a lie, it just turns everything upside down.

Yet while Rosie could attempt to wipe her ex from her life (and I acknowledge that it was easier to do because we had never had children together), others do not, or cannot make that choice.

Of all the wives and partners I have dealt with, some leave, but some do not. But I have yet to meet a mother [of a perpetrator] who has been able to cut the ties. And for that, they suffer far more than I ever did, because they can never let go. How can you let go of your baby?

She reveals that two days after Loram was arrested, his mother came to see her. And we both sat and cried. She is a lovely woman. She was devastated. She will never recover.

What an astonishing woman Rosie is. She gave a Press interview not long after his conviction, smashing the taboo that everyone should shut up about this.

I got grief for that, she recalls. Some people thought I should have kept quiet, brushed it under the carpet. Best not to make a fuss. I say, no, we owe it to the children to acknowledge this, even when it is horrific.

It all comes back to the children. And even if, as some people argue, Huw Edwards only received those images, and never passed them on, it was his duty, as an adult, to call the police.

It is all our duties to do that, to call it out, because otherwise children will keep on being abused every day, every hour, every minute.
Sources say the cheating scandal has sparked 'panic in Harris's camp'

Life at the vice president's residence has been frosty since affair story broke

His eyes are trained on a January move to the White House, but right now potential First Gentleman Doug Emhoff is in the doghouse.

On Saturday DailyMail.com broke the news that Emhoff's first marriage ended when he got his children's nanny pregnant.

Now, we can reveal, life at Number One Observatory Circle  the vice president's official residence  has been frosty to say the least.

'You know what they say, 'once a cheater always a cheater',' remarked one high-placed source.

'Of course, Kamala is worrying, not just that he might do it again, but could he have already done it again?'

Our bombshell exclusive revealed that Emhoff, 59, had an affair with blonde Najen Naylor, a teacher at his children's school who also moonlighted as a nanny for then-eight-year-old daughter Ella.

Kamala Harris hoped to shift the spotlight away from her husband's affair by announcing her running mate on Tuesday

The couple put on a united front amid the scandal in Philadelphia on Tuesday when the presidential candidate introduced her VP pick, Tim Walz

DailyMail.com broke the news that Emhoff's first marriage to wife Kerstin Emhoff (right) ended when he got his children's nanny, Najen Naylor (left), pregnant

The affair cost him his first marriage and he and first wife Kerstin, now CEO of 'creative think tank' Prettybird, divorced in 2008.

The news broke just after Emhoff's name - and face - had been thrust in the limelight on Friday, when his wife's campaign unveiled new coffee mugs emblazoned with an image of a handsome - noticeably younger, thinner and fuller-haired Second Gentleman, for sale on kamalaharris.com.

Within hours, the Harris campaign was on the defensive with Emhoff admitting the affair, and claiming he had told Kamala years ago and had also revealed the affair to Joe Biden's camp when it was vetting candidates for the vice-presidential candidate in 2020.

'During my first marriage, Kerstin and I went through some tough times on account of my actions, Emhoff admitted sheepishly after DailyMail.com's exclusive.

'I took responsibility, and in the years since, we worked through things as a family and have come out stronger on the other side.'

But even though Kamala, 59, is said to have known, it has still left her 'unnerved and humiliated' just two weeks after it became clear she would be the Democrat's 2024 presidential pick, according to one insider.

'She's trying to focus on rebranding her image and this is the last thing she wanted right now.'

'The Democrats' convention is just around the corner and the election is less than three months away, so any distraction has to be bad news.'

Within hours, the Harris campaign was on the defensive with Emhoff admitting the affair

On Friday, coffee mugs emblazoned with an image of a handsome - noticeably younger, thinner and fuller-haired - Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff went on sale on kamalaharris.com.

Emhoff, 59, and movie producer ex-wife Kerstin, 57, ended their 16-year marriage in 2009 when she discovered the affair, the sources said. Their daughter Ella was 10 and son Cole was 15 at the time

'Put bluntly it's not a good look and Harris and her team know it. News of the affair has dominated coverage of the candidate over the weekend and sparked panic in her camp.'

Even a statement from his first wife supporting him didn't help much.

'Doug and I decided to end our marriage for a variety of reasons, many years ago,' Kerstin, 57, said.

'He is a great father to our kids, continues to be a great friend to me and I am really proud of the warm and supportive blended family Doug, Kamala, and I have built together.'

Admirable as her defense of the father of her two children was, there's no getting away from the fact that key among that 'variety of reasons' was Emhoff's affair.

Harris tried to put the affair behind her with Tuesday's choice of outsider Tim Walz, as her running mate, hoping the spotlight would shift to the Minnesota Governor's rock-steady 30-year marriage.

Naylor, now 47, moved from California to the east coast shortly after the affair ended.

She now lives in the millionaire's playground of the Hamptons, New York.

She did not attempt to deny the affair when approached by DailyMail.com at her home.

Her only comment was that she was 'kind of freaked out right now'.

But a close friend with direct knowledge of the affair and pregnancy told DailyMail.com that Naylor did not keep the child, while CBS has since reported that the pregnancy ended in a miscarriage.

Another friend, Stacey Brooks, who mothered twin boys around the same time as Naylor was expecting, also did not deny any of the claims  but said she would not divulge further information without Naylor's permission.

When DailyMail.com approached Naylor she would not comment about her relationship with Emhoff or the baby. 'I'm kind of freaked out right now,' she said

Sources told DailyMail.com that Naylor was Ella's nanny at the time she got pregnant. She was working, first as a teaching assistant and then a teacher, at the Willows

Emhoff and movie producer ex-wife Kerstin, 57, ended their 16-year marriage in 2009 when she discovered the affair, the sources said. Their daughter Ella was 10 and son Cole was 15 at the time.

Sources told DailyMail.com that after the affair Naylor had to leave her job at the children's swank private school, The Willows in Culver City, California, where she worked first as a teacher's aide and then as a teacher.

Current tuition fees at the kindergarten-through-8th-grade school range from $32,525 to $41,535.

The Emhoff's 2010 divorce settlement filed in a Los Angeles court says the couple shared costs of a nanny, private tutor and private school fees.

When the couple split in May 2009, daughter Ella, now a model, was finishing third grade.

Emhoff met Harris, then California's Attorney General, three years later in 2013 when he was set up on a blind date by one of her friends. They married the following year.

It is not clear whether he confessed his affair to Harris before his second wife was undergoing vetting to become Vice President or if that was the moment it came to light.

Whatever the case, sources say, it couldn't have resurfaced at a worst time just as Harris has overtaken Donald Trump in several polls and is ramping up for her final push to win over voters in November.
It's official: Joe Biden's decision to step aside in favor of Kamala Harris really has generated a surge in positive headlines for the Democratic Party's campaign, according to an AI-driven analysis of U.S. media coverage.

The study of 130,231 headlines from 550 news outlets over the past three months bears out Republican griping that Harris has been getting an easy ride in the media.

Although there is a spike for Trump's 'sentiment' rating after he was shot, that was quickly replaced by a surge in positive feelings for Harris.

It reflects in part the fact that she has gone from running mate to top-of-the-ticket, said Wilson Chan, chief executive of Permutable AI, which carried out the analysis.

'We all thought that the assassination attempt was going to strengthen his hold but that's we don't see that to be the case. It's kind of plateauing, whereas Kamala Harris her sentiment is actually increasing through time.

Analysis by Permutable AI tracks sentiment around Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. It shows how Harris has seen a surge in positive headlines since Joe Biden announced he was stepping aside from the election race and his party rallied behind his vice president

'And it's not only increasing. We saw an explosion in volumes for the past two or three weeks.'

His company's AI technology provides real-time 'sentiment analysis' of thousands of companies.

Switching it to look at the two candidates in the US election was simple, he said.

The algorithm assigns a score of 0 (negative) to 100 (most positive) for each headline associated with their name.

For Harris, recent negative headlines contained suggestions that it was bad for the party to change candidate so late in the race, or that her policies or values were unknown.

For example, this headline in the Arizona Daily Sun scored only four points: 'Bad policies, not gender, will cost Kamala Harris the presidency.'

'Kamala Harris focusing on final contenders for her VP pick, sources say' (CBS News) was judged neutral, scoring 50 points.

And a New York Times headline, 'Kamala Harris Rapidly Picks Up Democratic Support as 2024 Race Is Reborn,' scored a whopping 97 points.

The tudy looked at 130,231 headlines in 550 news outlets over the past three months and graded headlines on a score of 0-100 for Donald Trump and Kamala Harris

This headline, on a Newt Gingrich opinion piece for Fox News, scored 75 points in the analysis

This headline in the New York Times was worth a whopping 97 points

A plot of the results reveals that Harris has generally maintained a higher score than Trump for the past three months, even though he generated a much higher volume of traffic.

He surged when a sniper's bullet grazed his ear at a rally in Pennsylvania.

But his lead was short-lived. When Biden stepped aside and his party quickly fell into line before Harris, her sentiment rating exploded, quickly overtaking Trump's score.

'She maintains a comfortable lead in terms of sentiment,' said Chan.

'And the volumes will be here to stay. We expect there to be persistent volume because she is now the leader of the party.'

The data also reveal how news outlets view the candidates and how their headlines tend to favor one or the other

The analysis can also be used to identify which news organizations give which candidates an easier ride.

It is no great surprise to see that Harris fares well with the New York Times (with a sentiment score of about 55 to her opponent's 49) while Trump gets a 49 with Fox News, compared with his opponent's score of less than 46.

The overall results reflect a good two weeks for Harris. Not only has she clinched the nomination, but she has attracted record levels of donations and eased ahead of Trump in FiveThirtyEight's rolling average of opinion polls.
A pole dancing club has been forced out of a quiet village after locals complained that young women in 'thongs and bras' could be seen writhing around.

High Voltage Pole began offering classes from a converted warehouse in 2020 and its Facebook page shows students in skimpy outfits and vertiginous heels going through their moves or leaning against a wall to show their toned 'peaches'.

But some residents took issue with the risque antics, with one mother complaining her four-year-old child could see 'girls in thongs and bras' from their bedroom window and blasting the 'inappropriate' behaviour.

There were also complaints about students blocking the single-track road with their cars, making parking 'horrific' for nearby homeowners in their smart Edwardian semis and Victorian detached homes.

Now, owner Danica Painter, 31, has had to quit her premises in the Cambridgeshire village of Elm after losing a planning battle.

High Voltage Pole on the ground floor of a home has been evicted from a tiny Norfolk village after locals complained about seeing women in 'thongs and bras' through the windows

The pole dancing club was run from this building in the village of Elm

Owner Danica Painter, 31, (pictured) has had to quit her premises in the Cambridgeshire village of Elm after losing a planning battle

One High Voltage pole dancer carrying out a move at the club

She appealed against enforcement action brought by the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk on the grounds that she had started operating in the former jam factory without permission.

But the Planning Inspectorate have now upheld the decision because of the 'harm to highway and pedestrian safety'  although in a pyrrhic victory for Ms Painter, it found the school had not had a 'harmful effect on living conditions' for residents.

The extrovert former ballet teacher, who also works as a stripper in clubs across the UK according to her online biography, was more coy when approached by a reporter yesterday.

Speaking at the door of the home in the village she shares with her fiance, stuntman Teddy Linard, and her pet maltichon, Bertie, she said 'No, no thanks' when asked to comment.

But locals were more vocal, revealing a split over whether the young 'entrepreneur' should have been made to leave.

One, who didn't want to be identified, said: 'The biggest issue for us was the parking. [Students] were parking in front of our driveway. The first lesson was maybe 5pm and the second was about 7pm. It was once or twice a week.

Ms Painter appealed against enforcement action brought by the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk on the grounds that she had started operating in the former jam factory without permission

Three pole dancers carrying out a move during a High Voltage pole class

Local residents in Elm have been split over whether Ms Painter should have been made to leave the premises

'Another issue someone was their window looked into the back of the jam factory. They had a younger child and were a bit 'yuck' about it.'

Other residents said more than one house had good vantage points for the pole dancing antics  although no other formal objections had been made about views that were 'out of keeping with the area'.

Another critic, Ann Hyde, 72, also complained of parking problems and said: 'It does not teach young children any values about themselves, doing that dancing. It's too provocative.'

But former businesswoman Sara Rigby, 64, was upset the school lost its appeal.

'Yes, they did pole dancing but it's a form of exercise. I would be doing it if I was fit enough,' she insisted.

Ms Rigby said of Ms Painter, who is known as Dolly: 'She's a sweet lass and just trying to make her way in life.

'We should be encouraging the entrepreneurs, not making their lives difficult.'

Some residents took issue with the risque antics, with one mother complaining her four-year-old child could see 'girls in thongs and bras' from their bedroom window

The Old Jam Factory on Chapel Lane in Wisbech where High Voltage Pole was based

And retired butcher Bill Burnell, 80, dismissed the pole dancing as 'harmless enough', adding: 'Some people just do not like anyone else enjoying themselves.'

The borough council declined to discuss the matter, saying: 'We do not comment on planning issues.'

Meanwhile, Ms Painter  who describes her 'fave pole dancing tricks [as] anything splitty' - has already announced online she is moving to a new studio in nearby Wisbech, boasting it is 'double the size' with seven four-metre poles and a separate studio for '1-2-1s'.

The premises, which are due to open later this month, are in a commercial area surrounded by businesses and with an Asda supermarket opposite.

A group of women in their 80s were overcome with hilarity upon learning of the new facility nearby, with one joking: 'I'd do it if I could.'
Almost 6,000 officers have been mobilised after a terrifying hitlist showed far-right thugs are set to target immigration centres, refugee shelters and lawyers' homes today - as more race riots are set to spark chaos across the country.

Vile messages from inside Telegram channels fueling the violence show the yobs threatening the lives of anti-racism activists and using sick slurs.

And comments from the messages show plans to unleash further disorder across Britain this evening - with as many as 38 destinations making up a 'target list'.

More than 100 people have so far been charged over Britain's week of riots, after violence spread across the country following misinformation in the wake of the Southport stabbings. The Director of Public Prosecutions has confirmed at least one of these is being looked at under terrorism legislation.

Towns and cities across England - from Aldershot to Wigan - have been named as places for demonstrations, with organisers saying 'they won't stop coming until you tell them...'.

One message - posted to the group's 15,000 members - said: 'The n*****s will try to abuse the unrest to steal. It's in their blood to doo so.'

Another called for the death of Nick Lowles, the founder of anti-extremism charity Hope Not Hate. The horrific call-out said: 'If anyone wants to go down in a blaze of glory, take this man with you.

'Death to Nick Lowles. Any man who takes his life will be a hero to the cause.' One extremely disturbing reply read: 'How can I do it I'm game.'

Mr Lowles responded to the threats this afternoon, calling the man involved 'serious and dangerous'.

And a further post told would-be rioters to wear masks, hoodies and leave their phones at home, underneath a photo of a young man in a balaclava and the tagline 'white n radical'.

Nearly 6,000 public order officers have now been mobilised to respond to riots over this week, police sources have told the BBC.

Towns and cities across England - from Aldershot to Wigan - have been named as destinations for demonstrations, with organisers saying 'they won't stop coming until you tell them...'

One vile message - posted to the group's 15,000 members - said: 'The n*****s will try to abuse the unrest to steal. It's in their blood to doo so'

Another called for the death of Nick Lowles, the founder of anti-extremism charity Hope Not Hate

Another told would-be rioters to wear masks, hoodies and leave their phones at home underneath a photo of a young man in a balaclava and the tagline 'white n radical'

Nearly 6,000 public order officers have now been mobilised to respond to riots over this week, police sources have told the BBC. Pictured: Police officers clash with protesters during the 'Enough is Enough' protest in Whitehall, London

A riot police officer is injured during the clashes with far-right protester outside Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham

Riot police officers push back anti-migration protesters outside the Holiday Inn Express Hotel which is housing asylum seekers

Police officers face protesters outside the Liver Building in Liverpool on August 3, 2024 during the 'Enough is Enough' demonstration

Police officers with people attending the 'Enough is Enough' protest in Whitehall, London

They have said that the situation is 'manageable' - adding that they hope Britain is now 'through the worst' of the chaos, although they are ready if it escalates again.

Violent riots have already 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.

More than 400 people have now been arrested and Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson has said the thugs could face terrorism charges as the legal system fights to bring offenders to justice.

The CPS chief hit out at those who had used the internet for the 'purposes of incitement and planning', telling the BBC: 'If you're engaged in that activity, then you can be prosecuted for the substantive offence that you have caused (due) to what you've been doing using the internet.'

And in a warning to those acting outside the UK, Mr Parkinson said: 'Some people are abroad. That doesn't mean they're safe.

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

Mounted police move in as violence breaks out in Manchester on Saturday, August 3

Riot police are confronted by Far-right activists during an Enough is Enough protest in Sunderland on August 02

Police officers kettle protestors during the 'Enough is Enough' demonstration on Whitehall, outside the entrance to 10 Downing Street in central London

'We have liaison prosecutors spread around the globe who've got local links with the local judiciary and law enforcement, but also the police are also stationed abroad.'

In measures reminiscent of the 2011 London riots, magistrates courts are operating round the clock to process rioters and releasing mugshots of some suspects after they have been charged in an effort to name and shame them.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer - who was himself Director of Public Prosecutions between 2008 and 2013 - said the criminal justice system has shown a 'robust and swift response' in the face of ongoing unrest.

A supposed 'target list' of 38 areas where further riots are planned for Wednesday was yesterday leaked on social media. A police source told The Mirror it was treating the list as a 'credible threat'.

'It's being watched closely and we are ready to respond,' they 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.

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

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.'

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.

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.

Today - in a show of hope - locals turned out to help chase off youths who had been targeting a local store

As many as thirty stood outside the shop in a show of unity as the threat of far-right action continued in the Northern Irish city

Police officers protect themselves from bricks thrown by protesters during the 'Enough is Enough' outside the Liver Building in Liverpool on August 3

Riot police are confronted by Far-right activists during an Enough is Enough protest in Sunderland on August 02

Police in riot gear react to a hostile crowd as Far-right activists hold an Enough is Enough protest in Sunderland on August 02

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'.

Among the stories of Brits being targeted by far-right thugs was the owner of a Middle Easter supermarket in Belfast, whose shop was 'singled out' by young yobs, as a boy and the shop behind him was pelted with eggs.

It allegedly came after the youths tried to steal from the store but were challenged by staff, as the Police Service of Norther Ireland are investigating it as a hate crime.

It came after another supermarket, owned by a Syrian man, was torched after rioters targeted it twice.

Owner Ali Moustafa Wartty said that police had confirmed his had been the only shop targeted, in incidents that date back to the start of the year.

He told the Belfast Telegraph: 'They have been singling us out.

'Police said they cannot do anything  it's very difficult for me, I have a number of businesses in Belfast and I will have to move them.

'I'm very disappointed in Belfast.'

But today - in a show of hope - locals turned out to help chase off the youths and support the local store.

As many as thirty stood outside the shop in a show of unity as the threat of far-right action continued in the Northern Irish city.
ABC employees are urging the national broadcaster to drop its legal battle and settle its case against journalist Antoinette Lattouf to avoid 'compounding costs'.

Lattouf was dumped by the ABC in December over her posts on the war in Gaza, just three days into a week-long stint as fill-in host on Radio Sydney 's morning show.

The former fill-in radio host launched legal action against the ABC at the Fair Work Commission claiming the decision was political, based on her stance on Palestine and her Lebanese heritage.

The ABC has since rejected Lattouf's settlement request, which includes a public apology, reinstatement as a fill-in radio presenter and $85,000.

The national broadcaster has defended itself against the unfair dismissal claim and is understood to have put forward an undisclosed counter-offer.

The ABC's national union house committee said staff at the broadcaster were disappointed management had rejected Lattouf's settlement offer.

The union members claimed the offer was 'modest' and called on chair Kim Williams and the board to step in if ABC management continue with the case.

'Arguing Ms Lattouf was not sacked, and then rejecting a modest early settlement offer does not look to us like model litigant behaviour,' the house committee told The Age.

The ABC's national union house committee said staff at the broadcaster were urging management to accept Lattouf's (pictured arriving at the Federal Court of Australia in Sydney) settlement officer as continuing the legal battle would 'run the risk of compounding costs'

Lattouf launched a Fair Work claim against the ABC after she was axed as fill-in host on Radio Sydney 's morning show for her a social media posts about the war in Gaza

The committee argued continuing the defence would run the 'risk of compounding costs, which will reduce operational and staff budgets'.

Members urged the ABC to settle with the former radio fill-in 'rather than continuing to rack up these costs and fight a staff member who did nothing wrong', prior to the February 27 Federal Court hearing.

Lattouf was axed by the ABC on December 20 within minutes of her Wednesday show ending and just hours after one member of a WhatsApp Jewish group called for a day of action against her.

The 40-year-old was pulled off the air just three days into her week-long stint as a fill-in host for ABC Radio after she reposted a Human Rights Watch video about starvation being used as a tool of war in Gaza.

She subsequently launched a Fair Work claim, alleging she was fired over her political opinions and her Lebanese heritage.

Lattouf's legal team has argued the ABC breached its disciplinary policies in its enterprise agreement by sacking the journalist.

The ABC claimed she breached the organisation's social media policy around impartiality and she was not actually sacked because she was paid for the full week.

However, the Fair Work Commission ruled in June that Lattouf was indeed sacked by the national broadcaster.

The ABC's total legal expenses in the case against Lattouf are still unknown, despite managing director David Anderson taking questions on notice in May during Senate estimates.

Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi questioned Mr Anderson in relation to the ABC's legal costs.

'The public has a right to know how much the ABC is spending to defend their sacking of journalist Antoinette Lattouf for communicating a fact which the ABC itself reported on,' Mr Faruqi said.

The national broadcaster has defended itself against the unfair dismissal claim and is understood to have put forward an undisclosed counter-offer

Mr Faruqi wrote to Communications Minister Michelle Rowland last week labelling the government's delay in releasing the figures as 'totally unacceptable'.

The ABC's house committee has also slammed management for not revealing its legal fees and for hiring big-shot US law firm Seyfarth Shaw to handle the dispute.

The firm is known for handling disputes that involve workers and unions and have previously defended high-profile companies including Amazon, Starbucks and Apple.

It is understood the government is processing the question on notice in relation to ABC's legal expenditures to date and will provide a response when available.
An Aussie FIFO worker has voiced her outrage after revealing Qantas had cancelled more than 20 of her flights around the country in just a matter of months.

The West Australian woman, who wished to remain anonymous, said the last cancellation on July 25 convinced her to tally up all of her previous flights that had been rescheduled.

She found that 25 of her flights had been either cancelled or delayed by the airline since October of last year.

Automated texts from Qantas to the woman revealed the flightpaths between Sydney, Perth and her workplace in Western Australia's north had been affected by the changes.

The latest cancellation was the 'third week in a row the plane had a fault' and forced the airline to send a replacement aircraft to her rural worksite.

Despite the repeated inconvenience, the worker said she has 'no choice' in other airlines because Qantas is the only one used by her company.

She is far from the only Qantas passenger to be hit by cancellations as data from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) revealed the airline canned a total of 640 flights in June.

A majority of the cancelled flights were attributed to Qantas' regional arm, Qantaslink, who during June scrapped 399 flights, 3.4 per cent of all planned trips.

A Perth FIFO worker has revealed 25 of her flights with Qantas have been cancelled or delayed since October last year (stock image)

The Perth woman said the incessant delays were infuriating her and her FIFO colleagues.

'It really is so annoying, so many people have had holidays ruined,' she told Yahoo.

'When you work away from home and you get stuck at work on your time off, it's actually bulls***.'

Daily Mail Australia contacted Qantas for comment.

The revelation comes just months after the airline admitted to the consumer watchdog it had misled thousands of customers over flight cancellations for years.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission launched legal action against Qantas in August 2023 alleging it engaged in false, misleading or deceptive conduct by selling tickets on flights the airline knew would be cancelled.

The 'ghost flight' breaches occurred between May 2021 and August 2023 and affected 86,597 customers.

In May this year, Qantas agreed to pay $20million in compensation to customers affected by cancelled flights.

Qantas agreed to pay $225 to domestic customers, $450 to international customers and about a further $100million in fines.

This was on top of any refund or alternative flight already offered, the airline said.

The worker said there was no other option for her to travel to her worksite in northern WA because her employer had contracted to use Qantas (pictured, alert texts from Qantas)

Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) revealed Qantas canned a total of 640 flights in June (stock image)

After the settlement, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson said that the company did provide adequate support to customers.

'Today represents another important step forward as we work towards restoring confidence in the national carrier,' Ms Hudson said in May.

'When flying resumed after the Covid shutdown, we recognise Qantas let down customers and fell short of our own standards. We know many of our customers were affected by our failure to provide cancellation notifications in a timely manner and we are sincerely sorry.

'We have since updated our processes and are investing in new technology across the Qantas Group to ensure this doesn't happen again.

'We are focused on making the remediation process as quick and seamless as possible for customers.'
A gang of thieves has been identified after shocking footage showed them violently loot a Denver jewelry store within minutes as terrified staff cowered in fear.

Days after the smash-and-grab crime, officials have laid the blame on the infamous Tren de Aragua gang, the largest criminal organization in Venezuela.

Seven males are still being sought over the heist, however one suspect - Jean Torres Roman, 21 - was arrested last week by Homeland Security.

The federal bureau said it caught Roman in New Mexico, before handing him off to the Denver County Sheriffs Department. He was charged with a slew of crimes including attempted aggravated robbery and attempted murder.

Shocking footage captured the moment a gang of thieves emptied a Denver jewelry store within minutes as terrified staff cowered in fear

Colorado cops sought eight men suspected of looting the store, before one was caught by Homeland Security who claimed he was associated with the Tren de Aragua gang

Experts have warned that the Tren de Aragua gang - which is believed to have over 5,000 members nationwide - has gained a foothold in America by taking advantage of the migrant crisis.

The gang is known for ruthless killings and sparking chaos in South America, but recently set up its new headquarters in Texas as members pour over the border.

Criminals associated with Tren de Aragua have now seemingly spread throughout the nation, with the El Paso division of Homeland Security Investigations tweeting this week over the arrest of Roman.

The bureau shared an image of the suspect in a red prison jumpsuit and chains, noting his alleged gang affiliation and role in the June 24 jewelry heist.

Homeland Security said Roman is a Venezuelan national, and passed him to Denver law enforcement to face charges over the jewelry heist.

Homeland Security released this image of Jean Torres Roman, 21, an alleged gang member who was charged over the shocking Denver jewelry heist

Footage showed two female employees run to the back of the store before several of the thieves overpowered them and held them at gunpoint

One of the men was seen pistol whipping one of the women, as their partners ransacked the store and stole fistfuls of jewelry and watches

He has been booked on a $1 million bond and faces charges of first degree murder, attempted aggravated robbery and menacing (making threats), reports KDVR.

According to the outlet, the net closed in on Ramos after a raid on a motel in El Paso led to the arrest of a number of people inside, who told officials that the suspect was among them until recently.

It was reported that the arrests in the motel came after collaboration between Homeland Security and Denver police, however it is unclear how Ramos was then tracked to New Mexico.

In footage of the heist, a number of the suspects were seen wearing masks or sunglasses to hide their identities, with some seen posing as customers at the start of the robbery.

Several other suspects converged outside, before racing inside the store and pulling out guns and weapons.

The men leapt over the counters and smashed into jewelry containers, as others ran to the back of the store to chase two women who attempted to flee.

One young woman with a baby could be seen grabbing her infant and thankfully making it to safety, however the two women who ran into a back office were quickly overpowered by the criminals.

The store's owner Lidia Tena said she feared for her life as she was held at gunpoint and was warned by the robbers she would be shot

The two women were seen trying to bolt the door between them and the robbers shut, but the men overpowered them and held them at gunpoint.

At one stage, one of the men pistol whipped one of the women in the head, and the store's owner Lidia Tena told KDVR that they were warned they would be shot if they tried to get away or speak.

At the time of writing, seven of the suspects remain at large, and the Denver Police Department is appealing for any information leading to their arrest.
A recruitment consultant who sued for discrimination after colleagues complained of her boasting about her 'gold star' sex life with a 'Johnny Depp' lover has told MailOnline she was the victim of a 'witch hunt'.

Charlotte Tilley was said to have showed off a sex tape she had made, edited photos of naked male torsos on her laptop at work and kissed another woman at the office Christmas party, an employment tribunal heard.

She was also said to have told colleagues that gold stars decorating her computer represented the number of times her boyfriend had triggered a particular sexual response in her during intercourse.

But managers at Gravitas Recruitment Group  an international firm specialising in technology and insurance recruitment  launched a disciplinary investigation, prompting Miss Tilley to resign.

The 29-year-old sued for sex discrimination and victimisation but an employment tribunal dismissed her claim on the grounds that she had 'a high tolerance of matters of a sexual nature'.

Charlotte Tilley, (pictured) a recruitment consultant who sued for discrimination after colleagues complained of her boasting about her 'gold star' sex life with a 'Johnny Depp' lover, has told MailOnline she was the victim of a 'witch hunt'

Miss Tilley (left) yesterday afternoon denied boasting about or constantly discussing her sex life, or kissing another woman at a Christmas party, and said her problems started at the firm when the 'gossipy' office found out she and colleague Kieron Mattinson (right) were dating

Miss Tilley yesterday afternoon denied boasting about or constantly discussing her sex life, or kissing another woman at a Christmas party, and said her problems started at the firm when the 'gossipy' office found out she and colleague Kieron Mattinson were dating.

They had both been dating other people at time but had a 'clear attraction' to each other, she said.

After some of the women in office heard she was dating the company trainer, Miss Tilley said they began pestering her with questions.

'One day three of them sat around me and starting hounding me with questions', she said. 'They were quite intrusive and asked what he was like in bed'.

She said she became so fed up with their questions and 'snapped' and, gesturing to gold stars stuck around her computer, asked them: 'What do you think they are for?' before giving them her 'joke' answer. But she said the comment was seized on by a rival who she had a 'clash of personalities' with.

She denied showing anybody a sex video - saying this was a particularly upsetting claim as she was the victim of revenge porn when she was 16  or kissing a female colleague at a Christmas party.

And she said the 'naked torsos' referred to at the tribunal were a screenshot of actors Henry Cavill, Tom Ellis and Colin O'Donoghue on her personal laptop.

Following her resignation, she said Mr Mattinson also left Gravitas a few months later, disgusted at her treatment.

But the couple remain together and Miss Tilley is pregnant with 31-year-old's baby. They live outside Oldham, Lancashire.

Miss Tilley believes some of the claims against her may have been triggered by 'jealously'.

'Kieran was a senior learning and development consultant and was talked about it in the office,' she said.

Following her resignation, Miss Tilley said Mr Mattinson also left Gravitas Recruitment Group (Manchester office pictured)  an international firm specialising in technology and insurance recruitment  a few months later, disgusted at her treatment

'He had a bit of a profile and he was talked about by the girls.

'There were not that many attractive guys in the office.'

The hearing in Manchester was told Miss Tilley joined Gravitas - which specialises in technology, insurance and banking - as a recruitment consultant in housing in July 2022.

In December that year, the tribunal was told she 'kissed another women in full view of others'.

Following this, Miss Tilley claimed two fellow members of staff had asked her at work whether she was bisexual, which she confirmed to them but said it made her uncomfortable.

However, one of the colleagues - Cleopatra Mabena - said it was Miss Tilley who instigated the conversation, after revealing she had been 'matching with girls on a dating app'.

The hearing was told she had started a relationship with Mr Mattinson at the firm's AGM around 27 December 2022 but the couple had managed to keep it a secret until the end of January. The following month, the tribunal was told, Miss Tilley 'discussed her sexual partners with colleagues'.

Miss Tilley told the tribunal she was bombarded with questions such as 'What is he like in bed?' and 'Was he Johnny Depp?' She replied she did not want to discuss it.

A judgement outlined how after about five minutes of questioning, Miss Tilley made the comment about the gold stars.

The tribunal panel said Ms Mabena had recalled an occasion where Miss Tilley said the gold star stickers represented the number of times Mr Mattinson had triggered a particular sexual response.

In a meeting with a manager the following day, Miss Tilley admitted making the comment, claiming she said it because she was being harassed about her relationship and sex life by colleagues and hoped to 'shut them up' by 'shocking' them. But Miss Tilley was told language of that nature were 'neither appropriate nor professional'.

Just days later, bosses received complaints about Miss Tilley 'suggestively' hugging a male staff member and showing colleagues a phone video of her having sex with an ex-boyfriend.

Miss Tilley was also accused of editing a collage on her MacBook of pictures of naked male torsos, in full view of other colleagues.

Bosses launched an investigation into the complaints of her 'making unacceptable sexual comments, viewing inappropriate imagery during working hours and showing colleagues an inappropriate video'.

However, the tribunal was told Miss Tilley went off sick with stress and resigned in March 2023. She then launched her unsuccessful tribunal claim.

Miss Tilley (pictured) sued for sex discrimination and victimisation but an employment tribunal dismissed her claim on the grounds that she had 'a high tolerance of matters of a sexual nature'

Dismissing her claims, Employment Judge Liz Ord ruled the consultant 'readily participated in conversations of a sexual nature...used explicit language and had images of naked male torsos on her computer screen saver.'

The judge said 'she had a high tolerance of matters of a sexual nature.'

Miss Tilley admitted yesterday afternoon that there were 'probably times I overstepped the mark' but said colleagues did too. She feels like she was 'driven out' of a company which she acknowledged was 'generally very fair' towards its staff, adding: 'In this particular instance they should have done more to protect me.'

Miss Tilley added: 'Recruitment is still a bit of male club and an alcohol fuelled industry so things like this can happen.

'I feel like I've been the victim of sex discrimination.'

Mr Mattinson and Miss Tilley are now planning to run a dog walking business together.
Progressive Squad member Rep. Cori Bush lost a momentous reelection race on Tuesday night, making her the second member of the far-left group to be voted out of office this year.

The controversial Democrat faced a hotly-contested primary against a more moderate challenger who hammered Bush for her support of pro-Gaza protests and causes.

The Associated Press projected Bush's loss three hours after polls closed, while she trailed by about five points.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., similarly 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. She is now the second Squad member to lose their primary election this year

Bush had faced millions in outside money dumped into her race from pro-Israel groups who opposed her staunch pro-Palestinian stance.

'Wesley Bell's victory and Cori Bush's defeat underscore what we've seen in races across the country and throughout this election cycle  being pro-Israel is not just wise policy, but also smart politics,' said Mark Mellman, chairman of the Democratic Majority for Israel PAC, in a statement.

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.
A teenage boy has been arrested and charged after he allegedly pulled a knife on another student during an altercation at a high school.

Police were called to Airds High School in Sydney's south-west, following reports of a brawl around 2.50pm on Tuesday.

Officers from Campbelltown City Police Area Command rushed to the high school and were told a 12-year-old boy had allegedly produced a knife at the school, before a physical altercation occurred.

The boy was arrested at a nearby address and taken to Campbelltown Police Station where he was charged with breach of bail.

He was refused bail and will appear before a childrens court today.

Police told Daily Mail Australia investigations are continuing.

This is the second alleged knife incident at a Sydney high school this week.

On Monday police were called to Pennant Hills High school after a suspected knife incident.

Police were called to Airds High School (pictured), following reports of a brawl around 2.50pm on Tuesday

Emergency services received a concern for welfare call to the school in Sydney's north-west about 12pm.

A teenage girl was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor injuries.
A controlling, jealous northern NSW man allegedly raped, choked, punched and kicked a woman on three separate occasions over two years including at a five-star hotel in Sydney.

Joel Nathan Fitzpatrick Burtt, 22, has pleaded not guilty to a myriad physical and sexual assault charges involving the woman who cannot be legally named.

As his trial opened before 14 jurors in Sydney's Downing Centre District Court on Tuesday, crown prosecutor Melanie O'Connell described the Suffolk Park man as controlling and jealous.

In October 2020 while the pair were in a car driving through Cronulla, the woman received a Snapchat message from another man

In seeing this, Fitzpatrick Burtt allegedly grabbed her phone, jumped out of the car and ran off.

He messaged the other man pretending to be the woman and arranged to meet him at Cronulla where an altercation occurred, the jury was told.

Later that day, the 22-year-old allegedly grabbed the woman's hair, forcing her to drive him to a family friend.

Joel Nathan Fitzpatrick Burtt is standing trial on multiple physical and sexual assault charges

On the way there, he headbutted her after hearing something he didn't like, Ms O'Connell said.

That night in a bedroom, he allegedly put his hands around her neck and squeezed.

"He had his other hand on her mouth and ... she couldn't breathe," Ms O'Connell said.

Fitzpatrick Burtt listened to these submissions from the dock, supported by family members in court.

Ms O'Connell continued, saying the 22-year-old allegedly choked the woman on another occasion in October 2021 as they lay in the bedroom of his Suffolk Park home.

He became angry because the woman was on her phone while he was trying to sleep, the jury heard.

A year later, he is accused of raping and repeatedly assaulting the woman on a Saturday night in a hotel room at the Star Grand after the pair attended mutual birthday celebrations.

The complainant is expected to tell the court she returned to the room to retrieve something before leaving for another party.

While inside, Fitzpatrick Burtt allegedly grabbed the complainant by the neck and forcibly held her down.

After she rejected his request for sex, he punched her to the side of the head and raped her, Ms O'Connell said.

After sexually assaulting her multiple times, he then kicked the woman in the face after she started crying, poured ice over her as she lay on the floor and stomped on her, the jury heard.

She then left the hotel room before speaking to hotel security and the police.

A sexual assault nurse who examined the woman the following day is expected to give evidence of her bruises and injuries.

Defence barrister Peter Skinner said his client denied the alleged incidents in Cronulla and Suffolk Park ever occurred.

He claimed the sex at the Star hotel was consensual, but says certain acts alleged by the complainant and crown did not occur.

Fitzpatrick Burtt concedes he punched the woman causing her actual bodily harm, but says this occurred at the end of the night after an argument.

"That happened at the end of some fairly bad sex," Mr Skinner said.

"He lost it and he punched her."

The assault did not occur before the sexual intercourse to overbear the complainant as prosecutors claimed, Mr Skinner said.

Fitzpatrick Burtt also denies kicking or stomping on the woman.

As the 21-year-old complainant gave evidence by audio-visual link on Tuesday afternoon, Fitzpatrick Burtt broke down in tears, grabbing tissues from a nearby box.

The trial continues on Wednesday.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

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An upstate New York father made a heartbreaking discovery after tracking his two teen daughters' phones when they stopped responding on Thursday.

Brian Trumble told Syracuse.com he was texting his daughters - Hailey, 19, and Shelby, 17 - several times when they did not return home from the Seabreeze Amusement Park in Rochester that night.

He then decided to use the Find My Friends app to track down their whereabouts on his phone and drove just a few miles to the location it showed.

There, he found that his two teenage daughters died in a fatal crash, and Cuyahoga County sheriff's deputies were already cordoning off the area.

'An officer asked what I was doing, what I was looking for,' Brian recounted. 'I told him I was looking for my daughters.'

Shelby, 17, and Hailey, 19, Trumble were killed in a crash on Thursday

The teenagers 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,' the sheriff's office announced Monday.

'Both Hailey and Shelby Trumble died as a result of the injuries they sustained at the time of the crash.'

The other driver, identified as 59 year old Robin Latham, was transported to Syracuse University Hospital with serious injuries, where she remains in stable condition.

The cause of the fatal collision remains unclear, and an investigation is ongoing even as a memorial was set up on the side of the road for the sisters.

'It's much too early to say exactly what happened, and what caused this crash and what factors were involved,' Sheriff Brian Schneck told CNY Central.

'But we are looking at every piece of evidence that we can.'

He added that officials have not found any evidence that any of the drivers were intoxicated at the time of the crash.

The girls had recently graduated high school, Hailey in 2023 and Shelby in 2024 - completing an Oswego BOCES Cosmetology program

The two teenagers were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash

The girls had recently graduated high school, Hailey in 2023 and Shelby in 2024 - completing an Oswego BOCES Cosmetology program.

'It's a tremendous loss,' the girls' father said. 'It's never going to be the same again.'

He and the girls' mother, Tina, described their daughters as simple country girls who loved animals and being outdoors.

Their love for animals began at a young age, as they would spend time on their grandparents' farm, caring for cows and pigs.

The family also had cats and dogs, and once even took in a pet raccoon, Tina said.

As teenagers, the close-knit sisters would also walk to a pasture near their home to see horses - and would always bring a few carrots and apples to feed them, she noted.

The sisters were also volunteers with the CNY Cat Coalition, and had just rescued two kittens - named Smokey and Bandit - who were thrown out a car window, in the days before their deaths.

Hailey's cat needed an amputation, and she was expecting to see it after their trip to Seabreeze on Thursday - but they never returned home.

The cause of the fatal collision remains unclear, and an investigation is ongoing

Brian said he is now seeking solace in the fact that the two girls were together when they died.

'One thing that I have taken away from all this [is] that it gives me some kind of peace - it makes me happy that they were together,' he told Syracuse.com.

The sisters were very close, their parents said, and would often paint each other's nails and watch Gilmore Girls and Heartland together.

They also enjoyed fishing, with Tina recounting how when Shelby was in elementary school, she would hop off the bus and run straight to the pond.

'She'd run down this dirt road to the pond that was out back, in like the middle of a cornfield, and go fishing every day,' she said, noting that they would also include their older brother, Riley.

'They could never go fishing without a bunch of snacks,' Tina said. 'Riley would come pick them up, and then they'd always run to Walmart first.'

The parents described their daughters as simple country girls who loved to fish with their older brother, Riley while they were growing up (pictured)

The sisters were also described as caring, never wanting to exclude anyone from their activities and making sure to always treat others with kindness and respect.

They would also make sure to check on their dad when times got rough, their parents said.

But they also liked to tease and pick on their father, Brian said, with Tina adding that Shelby was a very funny and honest kid.

'You didn't have to wonder where you stood with Shelby, she'd tell you,' Tina said.

She said losing her daughters is now the hardest thing she will ever go through.

'They were everything that wish you could be. So full of life,' Tina said.

'They were loved and so beautiful.'

A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, and the family is now raising funds to pay for the funeral expenses.

'In this devastating incident, the Trumble family lost two girls at one time as daughters, sisters, granddaughters and nieces,' the GoFundMe reads.

'From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your kindness, love and support during this heart-wrenching time.'

As of Tuesday evening, the fundraiser had far surpassed its goal of $10,000 - reaching more than $38,000.
A young woman has revealed the offensive act she was subjected to while minding her own business on a morning walk.

Co-founder and CEO of health and wellness app Kic, Laura Henshaw, was walking along a busy Melbourne road on Monday when she said two men in a car purposely slowed down to yell out comments about her body.

Ms Henshaw said she was initially 'p***** off' by the men's catcall but was shocked when they repeated the act three more times along an 800m stretch of road.

In a video posted to TikTok, Ms Henshaw said she felt like the first time the men tried to get her attention they 'almost thought it was a compliment'.

She added that her experience showed men felt entitled enough to impulsively yell at strangers.

Ms Henshaw said she felt increasingly unsafe as the pair continued to make comments such as 'you look good' toward her.

'Let me tell you, calling me 'sexy baby' (from) the car doesn't make me feel good,' she told followers.

The young businesswoman said the act makes women feel 'unsafe ... violated ... (and) objectified'.

Co-founder and CEO of health and wellness app Kic, Laura Henshaw (pictured), revealed how two men in a car yelled comments towards her several times during a morning walk

Ms Henshaw hoped the video would reach those who think yelling out to random woman is okay.

'Do you think that's appropriate? It is not,' she said.

A number of users commented on Ms Henshaw's post to reveal personal experiences of being catcalled.

'Happens way too often when I am on walks, I don't engage but definitely isn't a nice feeling,' one user said.

'I often don't feel safe going for runs around my neighbourhood,' a second wrote.

'And when I do, I try and cover up so men don't stare/say things (because) they have many times before.'

A third said a car circled back three times to yell at her while on a run, adding she 'had my headphones on so didn't know what they were saying, but it terrified me'.

Another user said she had hateful comments yelled towards her prior to losing weight.

'They would always comment such nasty things like 'fat pig' and things like that,' she wrote.

'It makes you feel awful.'

A joint effort between humanitarian organisation, Plan International, and beauty brand L'Oreal introduced in 2022 was designed to help Aussies learn how to intervene and stop street harassment.

It followed a poll of 2,000 Australians in 2022 which found 78 per cent of woman have experienced some form of street harassment in a public space.

Ms Henshaw (pictured) said catcalling made women feel unsafe, violated and objectified, while many who commented on her post revealed the act is extremely common

'Women, girls and gender diverse people have normalised and internalised street harassment for far too long,' Susanne Legena, CEO of Plan International Australia, said at the time.

'Unwanted sexual behaviour is not a compliment, it is a crime.

'Every person  especially young people  deserves to be free, safe and equal in their city and that will only happen when we can eliminate street harassment for good.'

One of the program's advocates, Angelica Ojjnnaka, said women who have been harassed start to change how they act in public.

'Some of us stop going out at night, or only go out with another person, some avoid public transport, some change the way we dress, or carry our keys gripped tightly in our hands,' she said.
A reclusive hunter-gatherer tribe from Peru has reportedly resorted to using bows and arrows to attack loggers attempting to trespass on their territory.

The Mashco Piro tribe was recently photographed searching for food on a beach in the Peruvian Amazon - amid fears their rainforest home is being increasingly hacked down by tree fellers.

Rare video shows the group standing near the Las Piedras river in small clusters, some jogging to pick up large spears resting in the dirt. Others were seen talking, gesturing to each other and help carry objects along the river.

Since their sudden appearance, experts have fear the Madre de Dio inhabitants are being forced out of their home in the region and may retaliate against illegal operators - a prediction that appears to have come true.

FENAMAD, a regional Indigenous organization that represents 39 communities in the Cusco and Madre de Dios regions confirmed that a lumberman was left injured after a group was logging illegally in the tribe's territory on July 27.

The Mashco Piro tribe has reportedly left a lumberman injured using a bow and arrow after a group was illegal logging in the tribe's territory

'It is presumably illegal because the area where the incident occurred is a forestry concession that belonged to Wood Tropical Forest until November 2022 and we are not aware of a concession that has requested or granted enabling rights in the same area,' said a FENAMAD representative, speaking anonymously out of personal security concerns.

The organization says that a lack of protection measures by the Peruvian government and the increased illegal activity on the Mashco Piro territory could produce 'devastating consequences,' such as the transmission of diseases and increased violence.

Survival International, an advocacy group for Indigenous peoples which closely follows the Mashco Piro's issues has also been pushing the government to take action and control the increasingly dangerous situation.

'This is a permanent emergency. For the last month we have been seeing the Mascho Piro every two weeks at different points and in all of them they are surrounded by loggers,' Teresa Mayo, a researcher at Survival International told CBS News.

The ethnic group was recently photographed searching for food on a beach in the Peruvian Amazon - amid fears their rainforest home is being increasingly hacked down by tree fellers

Images showed the group standing near the Las Piedras river in small clusters, some jogging to pick up large spears resting in the dirt.

The Mashco Piro, who inhabit an area located between two natural reserves in Madre de Dios, are rarely seen and do not communicate much with outsiders.

Several logging companies hold timber concessions inside the territory inhabited by the Mashco Piro.

One such company, Canales Tahuamanu, has built more than 200 kilometers (120 miles) of roads for its logging trucks to extract timber, according to Survival International.

The company is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, according to which it has 53,000 hectares (130,000 acres) of forests in Madre de Dios to extract cedar and mahogany.

The Mashco Piro, who inhabit an area located between two natural reserves in Madre de Dios have seldom appeared as a rule and do not communicate much with anyone

In 2022, members of the Mashco Piro tribe shot two Catahua workers with bows and arrows while fishing on the Tahuamanu River, killing one

In 2022, members of the Mashco Piro tribe shot two Catahua workers with bows and arrows while fishing on the Tahuamanu River, killing one.

As a result, Survival International is also calling on the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to withdraw its certifications of Catahua's operations - and petitioning for support to help protect uncontacted tribes.

Alfredo Vargas Pio, President of local Indigenous organization said: 'The logging workers could bring in new diseases which would wipe out the Mashco Piro and there's also a risk of violence on either side, so it's very important that the territorial rights of the Mashco Piro are recognized and protected in law.

'This is a humanitarian disaster in the making  it's absolutely vital that the loggers are thrown out, and the Mashco Piro's territory is properly protected at last.

'The FSC must cancel its certification of Canales Tahuamanu immediately  failure to do so will make a mockery of the entire certification system.'
The data protection watchdog said it has provisionally decided to fine a software provider just over 6 million for a 2022 ransomware attack that disrupted NHS and social care services.

The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) said it had provisionally found that Advanced Computer Software Group had failed to implement measures to protect the personal information of 82,946 people who were affected by the attack, which included some sensitive information.

The firm provides IT and software services to organisations around the country, including the NHS and other health providers, handling information as part of its role as a data processor.

The data protection watchdog said it has provisionally decided to fine a software provider just over 6 million for a 2022 ransomware attack that disrupted NHS and social care services (stock)

In August 2022, hackers accessed a number of the firms health and care systems via a customer account which did not have multi-factor authentication.

The attack led to disruption to critical services including NHS 111, and data taken included phone numbers and medical records, as well as details on how to gain entry to the homes of nearly 900 people receiving care at home.

This incident shows just how important it is to prioritise information security, Information Commissioner John Edwards said.

Losing control of sensitive personal information will have been distressing for people who had no choice but to put their trust in health and care organisations.

In August 2022, hackers accessed a number of the firms health and care systems via a customer account which did not have multi-factor authentication. Pictured: Patients waiting in a NHS reception area

Not only was personal information compromised, but we have also seen reports that this incident caused disruption to some health services, disrupting their ability to deliver patient care.

I urge all organisations, especially those handling sensitive health data, to urgently secure external connections with multi-factor authentication.

The ICO said its findings were provisional and no conclusion should yet be drawn on whether there had been a breach of data protection law.

The regulator said it would consider any representations from Advanced before making any final decision on the issue.
A Texas man who pleaded guilty to the savage murder of his young wife was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

Jared James Dicus, 23, was handed the lengthy sentence by District Court Judge Gary Chaney after confessing to police last year that he beheaded his wife of less than four months, 21-year-old Anggy Diaz.

As part of Dicus' plea agreement, he waived all his rights to appeal the verdict or the sentence.

He was sentenced during a pretrial hearing that focused on his competency, and after a court-ordered evaluation of his mental faculties was completed, he was deemed fit to stand trial, the District Attorney of Waller County announced.

Dicus and Diaz were wed in October 2022, but their marriage would end in complete horror.

This is Anggy Diaz and Jared Dicus on their wedding day in October. Dicus murdered Diaz sometime on January 11, 2023. After pleading guilty to the brutal crime, he was sentenced to 40 years in prison

Dicus will not be able to appeal his sentence or conviction whatsoever as stipulated by his plea agreement with the District Attorney of Waller County

Diaz's dismembered head was found inside the couple's cottage, which was on the Dicus' parents' property

On January 11, 2023, Dicus' parents called 911 to report that they'd found Diaz's mutilated body in a small cottage the couple lived in behind their home near Magnolia, Texas, a city about 45 miles northwest of Houston.

Officers from the Waller County Sheriff's Office arrived on the scene and made a gruesome discovery.

Diaz was found in a pool of blood next to the bed, with investigators noticing she had sustained several stab wounds to the back with a kitchen knife, according to court documents obtained by FOX 26 Houston.

Those documents also revealed that Diaz's head had been separated from her body and was found in the shower.

'Everything happened on the property. And all parts and pieces were recovered and submitted for evidence,' Sheriff Troy Guidry said.

Prosecutors and police would gain a rare look into the state of mind of Dicus, who was caught on surveillance video stealing a beer from the convenience store his wife worked at.

He seemingly did this hours after murdering and dismembering her.

Surveillance footage shows Dicus, calmly entering the store where she worked mere hours after he killed his wife

Dicus can be seen on camera taking a beer from the fridge and walking towards the exit

Dicus then calmly walks past the counter and leaves the store

Dicus can then be seen taking a drink in the parking lot, all while being caught on camera

The video footage was taken at the Chepes Meat Market and shows Dicus' car arriving around 11:40am.

He was seen wearing a T-shirt and jeans, grabbing a beer from the fridge, walking past the counter and out of the store, before taking a hearty swig in the parking lot.

According to Guidry, investigators were called out to the scene of the murder that same day.

Dicus' parents told responding deputies their son came inside their home and made a statement that prompted them to check the cottage, which led to them discovering Diaz's body.

Shortly after the murder, Diazs friends told KHOU-TV that she was an immigrant from Nicaragua who had been working two jobs to help pay for her mother's cancer treatment back home.

Even the judge who married the couple felt the need to make a post on Facebook remembering Diaz.

Police responded to the couple's property more than once for reports of domestic violence, Sheriff Guidry said during a press conference last January.

Two months before Dicus would slay his wife, he was arrested on a DWI charge, with court records showing he threatened a cop and other staff at the jail

Diaz was an immigrant from Nicaragua who had been working two jobs to help pay for her mother's cancer treatment back home

'As with many of you, I'm greatly saddened and shocked by the news of this tragic event and my prayers are with all of their families,' Waller County Judge Trey Duhon said.

'Out of respect for the families, I have taken down my photo with the couple and the post announcing their marriage, primarily due to the insensitive nature of some comments that were being made on that post,' he continued.

Just two weeks before her murder, Diaz had posted a picture of herself and her husband on Christmas day to her Instagram, wishing her friends and family a 'happy merry Christmas.'

'Merry Christmas my beautiful wife,' Dicus responded to the post, calling his wife a 'trophy.'

Her last post to Instagram sharing a photo of her lunch was sent out just hours before investigators believe she was killed.

In a post on her 20th birthday in October 2021, Diaz wrote 'Solo puedo dar gracias a Dios por bendecirme tanto' which translates to 'I can only thank God for blessing me so much.'

In a post on her 20th birthday in October 2021, Diaz wrote 'Solo puedo dar gracias a Dios por bendecirme tanto' which translates to 'I can only thank God for blessing me so much'

This is the comment Jared Dicus left on his wife's picture of them just two weeks before he ended up killing her

Diaz was just 21-years-old at the time of her death

Despite how the couple interacted on social media, behind closed doors, it became clear their relationship was full of turmoil and violence.

Police responded to their property more than once for reports of domestic violence, Sheriff Guidry said during a press conference last January.

And two months before Dicus would slay his wife, he was arrested on a DWI charge, with court records showing he threatened a cop and other staff at the jail.

After he reportedly punched windows in abject frustration, police forced him into a restraint chair.

DA Sean Whittmore said due to the brutality of his crime, Dicus will not be eligible for parole until 2043 at the earliest.

If he serves out his entire sentence, he will be 63 years old when he gets out.

'Waller County does not tolerate domestic violence. 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,' Whittmore said in a statement.
Police were last night forced to defend themselves for failing to stop a mob of masked Muslims targeting a pub during a march to 'protect' Birmingham.

Hundreds of men  some armed and many with their faces covered  gathered in the Bordesley Green area on Monday night to keep the Muslim community safe from a rumoured far-Right rally.

But trouble flared after the far-Right failed to materialise, with some armed thugs in the group instead attacking cars, chasing journalists and later descending on a pub in the Yardley area.

Footage appeared to show a man being assaulted in front of The Clumsy Swan, which had its doors and windows damaged as the mob tried to break in and terrified customers and staff hid.

Those caught up in the chaos criticised police yesterday for failing to intercept the gang and then not responding quickly enough to the attack, despite one of the city's biggest police stations sitting just down the road.

A video shared online showed a large crowd of men, many of who wore balaclavas or face coverings, gathering outside The Clumsy Swan in Birmingham on Monday

A gang waving Palestinian flags stormed The Clumsy Swan before knocking a man to the ground on Monday

Pubgoers screamed as protesters faced off against a man outside - before he was kicked to the floor on Monday

The man was knocked to the floor and kicked in the head on Monday

The incident came amid claims of 'two-tier policing', with suggestions that far-Right protests have been treated more firmly by police.

The claim has been pushed by Nigel Farage and Elon Musk, the world's richest man, on his social media site X.

West Midlands Police said it recognised 'there were some concerns' with its response and said it was investigating five separate incidents including an assault on a man in his 50s. A 46-year-old man was separately arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon.

Crowds gathered at Bordesley Green McDonald's after rumours shared on social media of a possible far-right protest in the area on Monday

Masked men could be seen gathered around the McDonalds at Bordesley Green on Monday

A masked man attends the gathering in Bordesley Green on Monday

In a statement, the force said it was 'clear' there were individuals at the initial gathering who had face coverings and were acting 'in an antisocial manner', adding it would have been 'extremely intimidating for people'. But the force added: 'On the whole we've received positive feedback on how we dealt with the gathering.'

Their view conflicts with accounts of those on the ground. One Muslim community leader accused police of ignoring his tip-off.

At the start of the unrest in Bordesley Green, Sky News were forced to cut short a live broadcast after reporter Becky Johnson was surrounded by a masked group on bikes who yelled expletives and made gun signs at the camera.

A man later attacked their van with a knife. LBC reporter Fraser Knight described being chased away from the scene by a group of Muslim men who appeared armed and said he was 'struck' by 'the lack of police presence'.

Trouble flared after the far-Right failed to materialise, with some armed thugs in the group instead attacking cars, chasing journalists and later descending on a pub in the Yardley area on Monday

One man set off a flare at the Bordesley Green McDonalds on Monday

The masked group who targeted the pub walked nearly two miles from the scene of the initial gathering, with footage showing them blocking traffic. But there is no evidence to suggest the police tried to stop them.

The gang approached the pub at about 8.30pm and one of their number was filming. 'We're showing dominance, asserting dominance over everybody,' he said in the footage, which has been shared widely on social media.

Assistant pub manager Linda Fogarty, 60, had been alerted to the potential trouble and ushered her customers inside. One, reported to be Sean McDonagh, 51, was confronted outside by the gang and punched to the ground and kicked. He said he had been taken to hospital with a torn liver.

Other thugs tried to smash the windows and kick down the door. Ms Fogarty, whose hand was slammed in a door, said: 'I was scared. We were having a karaoke night. There were kids in there.'

West Midlands Police said it was 'clear' there were individuals at the initial gathering who had face coverings and were acting 'in an antisocial manner'

Crowds gather at Bordesley Green McDonald's, with some filming on their phones on Monday

Naveed Sadiq, a respected figure in the local Muslim community, rushed to the scene and managed to halt the attack.

He had just come from a meeting hosted by police in Bordesley Green to provide reassurance to the Muslim community  and phoned the officer he met there to warn him of the violence. He was assured 'nothing is happening'.

Mr Sadiq said: 'We were told that there isn't a two-tier policing system. I don't want to break my relationship with the police, but I did give them a heads-up and they should have been here.'

A 24-year-old pub regular, who asked not to be named, stumbled across the attack on Monday night.

He said: 'As we've seen from the marches that have been going on around the country, they've been police-escorted. Now we have a march that has gone from Bordesley Green to here and they've not been followed. Literally two minutes away is the biggest police station in the area.'

Several Muslim community members went to the pub to show support yesterday. A local mosque, Mr Sadiq and others have offered to pay for the damage.
A Qantas employee and contractor for the SA Department of Child Protection has been accused of sexually abusing a child for 18 months.

Adelaide woman Hannah Neale, 29, broke down in tears in Elizabeth Magistrates Court on Thursday following her arrest in June and indicated she would fight the charges.

It is alleged Ms Neale sexually abused the teenage boy from December 2021 until July last year while employed as a residential carer for a partner organisation working with the government department.

During the period of her alleged offending she was effectively living with the 16-year-old boy who was under the guardianship of the minister, reported 7 News.

In her first court appearance she asked for her bail conditions to be varied to allow her within 500m of a school and to communicate with people under the age of 18 for her second job at the airport.

The court heard Ms Neale, from Evanston in the city's north-east, has no previous criminal history.

Her defence lawyer Tony Kerin said she has been employed with Qantas for a number of years and the company wanted to know if she could continue to work while the matter is before the court.

'It's quite clear from (that letter) she stands in high regard,' Mr Kerin said, as reported by The Adelaide Advertiser.

Qantas worker Hannah Neale outside Elizabeth Magistrates Court on Thursday

'There was a period when she had difficulty and they supported her through that and the employer requires more latitudinal information to be able to do that again.'

In arguing for the bail conditions, he said there was no risk to the community as the alleged offending was in a 'very restricted' setting.

The police prosecutor argued against the variations because of the seriousness of the charges.

However, magistrate David White granted the request which will allow her to continue to work at the airport, which is 400m from a school.

Ms Neale is alleged to have sexually abused a 16-year-old boy while working as a contractor for the Department of Child Protection in SA

Ms Neale is charged with sexually abusing a child.

Her bail was continued and she walked from court ahead of her next appearance in November.

If the case proceeds to trial, the seriousness of the charge will require it to be heard in the District Court.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Qantas and the Department of Child Protection for comment.
A recently married PE teacher has been charged after allegedly sexually assaulting a 17-year-old boy under her care at a school in Sydney.

Police were called to a school in the city's southwest on Tuesday where they arrested Tayla Lee Brailey, a 30-year-old high school teacher.

She was taken to Liverpool Police Station and charged with sexually touch a person between 17 and 18 under special care and sexual intercourse with a person under care between 17 and 18 under special care.

The teacher has been refused bail and is due to face Liverpool Local Court on Wednesday.

She is being held at the Amber Laurel Correctional Centre.

Police were called to a school in Sydney 's southwest on Tuesday where they arrested Tayla Lee Brailey, a 30-year-old high school teacher

Brailey completed a bachelor's degree in Physical and Health Education at the University of Wollongong in 2017.

She then started working for the NSW Department of Education in October, 2017.

The 30-year-old became engaged to her partner in December, 2021 and tied the knot in September last year.

She celebrated her Hens party in Bali with friends and family, enjoying time at the popular Finns Beach Club, with several snaps shared to social media.

She also appeared on Channel Seven's quiz show The 1% Club earlier this year.

The education department confirmed the teacher had been suspended without pay and support is being provided to staff and students at the school.

More to come

Brailey married her partner last year, having got engaged in December, 2021
Paddleboarders were left open-mouthed as a cheeky dolphin popped up beside them  almost, it seems, on porpoise.

The holidaymakers on the Cardigan coast of Wales had their close encounter of the watery kind at New Quay bay.

The sighting was documented by zoologist Sarah Michelle Wyer, working as a wildlife guide for Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips. Wyer, who has spent years studying marine life, regularly captures the dolphins in their natural habitat.

The sighting is one of many recent dolphin appearances in the area, delighting both locals and tourists alike.

The dolphins at New Quay are of the common bottlenose variety  scientific name Tursiops truncatus. Website the Dolphins of Cardigan Bay advises: 'The chance of seeing dolphins in or near New Quay on any given day are good  especially in the summer when the sea is calm.

Paddleboarders were left open-mouthed as a cheeky dolphin popped up beside them

The sighting is one of many recent dolphin appearances in the area

'A survey by the University of Aberdeen has suggested that there may be as many as 127 dolphins off the Cardigan coast, although other researchers have suggested that this number may well have been inflated.'

Back in May, visitors to the Welsh coast were greeted with a spectacle during the bank holiday weekend when a pod of Bottlenose Dolphins put on a display.

Boat trippers in New Quay Bay, Ceredigion watched in awe as the mammals jumped out of the sea in extraordinary scenes on Saturday.

The dolphins took turns showing off their best moves, jumping out of the water in full sight of the tourists.

Sarah Michelle Wyer, a marine zoologist and wildlife guide for Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips, told the Mail at the time: 'We don't see them (Bottlenose Dolphins) on every trip we do but when we see them 'performing', it never gets old.

Bottlenose dolphins put on a show back in May, jumping out of the sea at New Quay Bay in West Wales on a Saturday afternoon, entertaining people on a boat trip

Sarah Michelle Wyer, a marine zoologist and wildlife guide for Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips, previously told the Mail: 'We don't see them (Bottlenose Dolphins) on every trip we do but when we see them 'performing', it never gets old

Bottlenose Dolphins are commonly found along the west coast of Wales but are found across the UK

The dolphins took turns showing off their best moves, jumping out of the water in full sight of the tourists

Marine zoologist Sarah Michelle Wyer took the photos while working as a wildlife guide for Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips

'They are frustrating as their so unpredictable, but visibility is better when the sea is better like on Saturday.'

Ms Wyer, 30, described how the pod of around eight Bottlenose Dolphins were visible to those on the beach and to onlookers from the pier.

On the boat, the Ermol VI, Ms Wyer was giving a tour of the bay when the dolphins began to 'go crazy'.

As a zoologist, she described the Bottlenose as 'playful creatures' who 'love to interact with boatloads of tourists'.

She added: 'One guest said it crossed off a dream from her bucket list- it's really special to be part of the experience'.
She had ordered several food for take away

The name was referred to the customer

A young Aussie was almost brought to tears by a comment written on her receipt when she ordered takeaway from a Bali restaurant.

Montana was visiting the Indonesian island when she bought several dishes and noticed the name 'Ms Cantik' referring to her on the printed receipt.

The word 'cantik' means 'beautiful' in the Indonesian language Bahasa.

'I almost cried,' Montana said.

The traveller shared the moment she found the message in a post on TikTok.

'I bet you she was expecting me to not know this word in Indonesian, but I knew it,' she said.

Montana explained that staff usually ask for her name to put with their order, but they didn't on this occasion.

'I thought they must have remembered it... wrong. She put a descriptor in Indonesian as my order name,' she said.

Aussie traveller Montana (pictured) discovered the name was referring to her as one of the customers of the restaurant after she ordered takeaway at the eatery in Bali

'What she didn't realise is, it was on the receipt'.

In her TikTok video, Montana showed a copy of the receipt that was attached to the top of a brown takeaway bag.

The name is understood to have been used by staff at the restaurant to help them identify food orders placed by each customer.

Social media users said they initially thought the term might have been disrespectful.

'I was thinking it was something rude, but how stupid of me to forget that Indonesians, especially in Bali, are the loveliest people,' one wrote.

'Why did I think it was a bad word, so kind!' another said.

Montana said she almost cried after she was told by the waiter the name on the receipt (pictured) was referring to her

Others said they had also revealed similar messages when they visited restaurants in Bali.

'I got a receipt with 'ganteng' [which means handsome] on it,' one person wrote.

Montana said the secret message had made her day.
Donald Trump has taken a surprising lead among Jewish voters in deep blue New York, a new poll found.

The Republican gained support from 50 percent of likely Jewish voters in the state, compared to 49 percent who opted for Vice President Kamala Harris, according to a Siena Research Institute poll.

Harris' results show a slip among the electorate group since President Biden stepped aside in the presidential race, after he previously led Trump among New York's Jewish population 52 percent to 46 percent in June.

The poll was released Tuesday, the same day Harris announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running-mate off the back of a surge in the polls for the Democrat.

Donald Trump has taken a surprising lead among Jewish voters in deep-blue New York

Kamala Harris led her Republican opponent by 53 percent to 39 percent across New York, as she enjoys a surge in poll results since President Biden stepped aside in the race

The shift marks a dramatic drop for Democrats among a voter bloc they usually dominate, with statistics from the American Enterprise Institute cited by Fox News finding that Jewish voters supported Democrats by a margin of 71 percent to 26 percent since 1968, on average.

Nationwide, Biden garnered 68 percent support among Jewish voters compared to 30 percent for Trump in 2020, and in 2016 Hillary Clinton won 71 percent to 26 percent.

Trump's lead among Jewish voters in New York comes months after he held a rally in the Bronx, which pundits remarked brought out a larger-than expected audience among African American voters.

Across all voter groups in New York in the new poll, Harris led 53 percent to 39 percent over Trump, a drop from Joe Biden's win in 2020 where he gained 60 percent support to Trump's 37 percent.

But while the GOP nominee claims that he believes he can win the Empire State in November, a Republican has not won the deeply Democratic state since Ronald Reagan in 1984.

Although Trump's narrow lead among Jewish voters may not be enough to turn the state his way, the new poll's results may be indicative of issues Harris faces in consolidating her voter base.

The poll was released Tuesday, the same day Harris announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running-mate, seen together at his introduction rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday

Supporters of Israel in its war with Hamas have raised concerns that Harris may not show the same level of support for the Jewish state in comparison to Biden.

The shift may be due to rampant protests among young voters over the large number of civilian casualties in Gaza, with conservatives criticizing her for caving to protestors.

Harris was the first administration official to push for an 'immediate ceasefire' back in March, and has raised the issue several times since in interviews criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Vice-President was notably absent when the Israeli leader gave a joint address to Congress last month, and when asked recently about Netanyahu's role in the bloodshed, Harris responded that 'far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.'

The new poll was also released on the same day that Harris named Walz as her running mate, snubbing Jewish candidate Josh Shapiro, the Governor of Pennsylvania.

Trump's campaign has raised the issue of Jewish voters leaving the Democratic party earlier in the campaign, accusing Jewish people who vote for his opponents of hating Israel and 'their religion' in a radio interview in March.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, DC on July 24 ahead of delivering an address to a joint session of Congress on Capitol Hill - which Kamala Harris notably missed

The Democratic Party has been fractured over the Israel-Hamas war. Pictured: Displaced Palestinians walk through a street filled with rubble in Hamad area in the southern Gaza Strip

Speaking to former White House staffer Sebastian Gorka, Trump continued: 'Any Jewish person that votes for Democrats hates their religion.

'They hate everything about Israel, and they should be ashamed of themselves because Israel will be destroyed,' he said.

Following the remarks, the White House issued a statement condemning Donald Trump's 'vile and unhinged antisemitic rhetoric.'

White House spokesperson Andrew Bates told Mediaite: 'President Biden has put his foot down when it comes to vile and unhinged Antisemitic rhetoric.

'As Antisemitic crimes and acts of hate have increased across the world  among them the deadliest attack committed against the Jewish people since the Holocaust  leaders have an obligation to call hate what it is and bring Americans together against it.'
Labor is refusing to send the Iranian ambassador home despite his comments calling for 'wiping out' the 'Zionist plague'.

Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi's genocidal comments were delivered in a social media post. If he wasn't protected by diplomatic immunity he would almost certainly be prosecuted under Australian hate speech laws Labor has long championed as important to the social cohesion of the nation.

Instead, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong have merely hit the rogue ambassador over the head with a wet lettuce. They've called him in for a talking to, before letting him continue to go about his business under the protections afforded to diplomats.

So he's free to continue his business of spreading hate speech and calling for genocide against Jews. It is a level of anti-Semitism that should have ended with the conclusion of World War II.

Why is Labor acting with such weakness? Especially considering that it quite rightly condemned the Coalition in power for not dismissing the Russian Ambassador back when Ukraine was invaded?

The answer is cynical and debasing - a tragic insight into what motives and drives Australia's political leadership right now.

Many inner-city seats that Labor hopes to hold or win back - staving off a Greens push to claim them at the next election - are pro-Palestinian and anti-Israel after the Hamas terror attacks. Anthony Albanese doesn't want to upset these constituents by doing more than using words to condemn the Iranian ambassador's calls for genocide.

Hence actions are nowhere to be seen. The hateful ambassador will be allowed to stay.

Iranian Ambassador Ahmad Sadeghi (pictured) has called for 'wiping out' the 'Zionist plague', yet Labor won't kick him out of the country

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured) is so far refusing to act against hate speech and calls for genocide against Israelis by the Iranian Ambassador

The PM worries that if he kicks Sadeghi out of the country, the Greens will use that against Labor in the electorates mentioned.

He also worries that anger amongst some Muslim voters in outer metropolitan areas might see once safe Labor seats in these communities fall at the election.

It comes in the wake of the resignation from the Labor Party of WA Senator Fatima Payman, who crossed the floor in support of a vote on an independent Palestine.

Poll Do you think the Iranian ambassador should be kicked out of Australia? Yes No Do you think the Iranian ambassador should be kicked out of Australia? Yes 1490 votes

No 104 votes Now share your opinion





So Albo avoids actions against the Iranian ambassador's calls for genocide, and merely uses rhetoric instead. He is also contradicting Labor's calls for strong action against the Russian ambassador just a few short years ago, when they demanded he be sent home.

Speaking of which, why is the Russian ambassador still here? If Labor thought he should go when the Coalition was in power at the beginning of the Ukraine war, why shoudn't he go now when Labor is in power and can now do precisely what it previously called for?

Surely it wasn't just Labor playing politics back then.

As much as I agree with criticisms that the Russian ambassador should be been sent home years ago, and I have sympathy for why some Australians are concerned by Israel's policies in the Middle East, neither of these nation's ambassadors have called for genocide.

This isn't the first time the current Iranian ambassador has posted anti-Semitic hateful tweets about Israel and its people. In December last year he took to X (formerly known as Twitter) calling for 'an end' to the state of Israel. At the time a spokesperson for Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the tweets, saying there was no place for anti-Semitism in Australia.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong

No place?

Surprise, surprise, the lack of action against the Iranian ambassador back then has resulted in him upping the ante now. And it will no doubt happen again, courtesy of Labor's weak response once again.

Evil prospers when good people do nothing, to paraphrase 18th century philosopher Edmund Burke. A government that merely rhetorically condemns genocidal hate speech - rather than acting against it - is a perfect example of doing nothing to combat evil.

The question now is whether or not you can even characterise those tolerating the hate speech by not acting against it as good people, given that their reasons for doing so are debasing politics at best.

They are trying to walk a fine line between criticising and tolerating hate speech in the hope of hanging onto votes at the next election amongst communities that have sympathy for what the Iranian ambassador is saying.

This is a new low in Australian politics.
There were wild scenes at a popular pedestrian shopping mall with an alleged assault before heroic bystanders pinned the suspect to the ground and police arrived to make an arrest.

Video from the scene showed two men trying to subdue a third on the main outside shopping strip at Bondi Junction in Sydney's eastern suburbs on Wednesday morning.

Cries of distress were heard as passers-by rushed in to help hold down a figure wearing a grey hooded top down.

One of those involved, who did not want to be named, said the man 'randomly attacked a woman pulling her to ground by her hair before people arrived to help her'.

Eventually there were seven people restraining the man in a kneeling position or standing over them ready to assist.

'Can someone call the police? Can someone call the police?' a female voice called out.

Later two police ran to the incident and began to restrain the man.

More police arrived and five officers were filmed pressing flat on the ground what appeared to be a male with short-cropped dark hair.

A police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia that officers called to the scene at about 9.15am with reports of an assault.

Video has captured a scuffle that broke out on the main outside shopping strip at Sydney's Bondi Junction

Bystanders rushed in to restrain one of the combatants on the ground as a woman called out for police to be called

After bystanders held the person on the ground police officers took over restraining the individual

'Three people  a man and two women - sustained minor injuries and did not require assistance from NSW Ambulance paramedics,' the police spokesperson said.

'A man was arrested at the scene and taken to Waverley Police Station where he is assisting police with their inquiries.'

The Bondi Junction Westfield shopping centre was the scene of the horrific carnage inflicted by knifeman Joel Cauchi on April 13 in an incident that shocked the world.

Six people - five women and one male security guard - were killed when 40-year-old Cauchi attacked people with a 30cm knife.

A nine-month-old baby girl was one of 12 others that were stabbed before the knifeman was shot dead by NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott.
Jess Phillips was yesterday accused of 'making excuses' for the behaviour of masked men who threatened journalists in Birmingham.

Former Tory home secretary James Cleverly called for the Labour frontbencher to 'think about the consequences' of a social media post appearing to defend 'shouting, abusing and intimidating members of the media'.

Large groups, some sporting Palestinian flags, had gathered in the Bordesley Green area on Monday after false rumours of a far-right rally.

Sky News journalist Becky Johnson had to abruptly end a live report as men in balaclavas approached, disrupting the broadcast and throwing gun signs.

One masked attendee attempted to slash the tyre on her crew's van.

But Ms Phillips, the minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, argued the crowd was there 'because it has been spread that racists were coming to attack them'.

Large groups, some sporting Palestinian flags, had gathered in the Bordesley Green area on Monday after false rumours of a far-right rally

Crowds gathered at Bordesley Green McDonald's after rumours shared on social media of a possible far-right protest in the area

Jess Phillips, the minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, argued the crowd was there 'because it has been spread that racists were coming to attack them'

'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 Birmingham Yardley MP posted on X.

'It is misinformation being spread to create trouble.'

Mr Cleverly, who is standing for the Conservative leadership, responded: '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 their words and actions.'

Sky News reporter Becky Johnson was confronted by a gang of masked thugs live on TV

The protester shouted 'Free Palestine, f*** the EDL' as the reporter looked on and associates joined him

Nick Timothy, the newly-elected Tory MP for West Suffolk, added: 'Does Keir Starmer think this is acceptable from a Home Office minister?'

The Labour minister had condemned anyone who was 'tooled up' to the gathering, adding: 'Anyone committing criminality should face the law, but it's important that the facts of why people are congregating. And how it is done on purpose in order to keep driving this dissent, to create content. It's very organised and very ugly.'

But Reform Deputy Leader Richard Tice accused her of 'trying to justify thuggery, intimidation and threats by violent gangs'.

His Reform colleague Lee Anderson said: 'You need to apologise for this and then resign. You're part of the problem not the solution.'
China issues alerts for mountain torrents

Xinhua) 15:20, August 07, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Harry and Meghan's trip to Colombia later this year won't upset the King and the Prince of Wales.

They feared the Sussex duo might choose a different destination: a headline stealing jaunt to the Paris Olympics.

Monarchs and crown princes from across the globe have been in the French capital along with Hollywood royalty.

The presence of Harry and Meghan would not have amused Charles or his heir.

Neither have felt the urge to turn up and cheer on Team GB.

Instead Princess Anne last week and Duchess Sophie this week are doing the lowkey honours. H&M's PR team have missed an open goal.

Harry and Meghan's trip to Colombia later this year won't upset the King and the Prince of Wales - they had feared they would go to the Paris Olympics

Princess Anne has been doing the lowkey honours of cheering on Team GB

Royal silence on Olympics is deafening

At the start of the Olympics, Queen Camilla rushed out a tweet to congratulate GB's equestrians on winning Team Eventing gold.

William and Kate did the same plus a 'well done' for Tom Pidcock for mountain biking gold.

Since then nothing  not even when the nation's favourite Keely Hodgkinson triumphed this week.

Socials status: At the start of the Olympics, Queen Camilla rushed out a tweet to congratulate GB's equestrians on winning Team Eventing gold - but since then, nothing

Camilla's heartfelt message to the British Equestrian team appeared on X

Why the deafening silence? The royals are on holiday and so are most of their PR teams.

Only one other Olympic-related event caught the attention of the skeleton staff left behind.

William and Kate's X marked Andy Murray's retirement with a green heart emoji. Not exactly a fulsome tribute.

Aimee's Mancunian accent is White on the money

Manchester's Aimee Lou Wood, star of Sex Education, has been cast as an American in series three of The White Lotus.

All fine and dandy but Aimee Lou struggled with the transatlantic drawl required.

'I did a self-tape, one in an American accent and one in my own,' she says.' They were like, 'Yeah, we want your own voice.' Aimee now brings her Mancunian trill to The White Lotus.

Manchester's Aimee Lou Wood, star of Sex Education, has been cast as an American in series three of The White Lotus

The kissing tale of two Taylors

Newly discovered intimate recordings of a drunken Elizabeth Taylor talking about her first screen kiss feature in a new documentary by film director Nanette Burstein.

She tells Radio Times that Taylor's first smooch was with the actor Robert Taylor when she was aged 15 and he was in his late 30s.

'I don't think you could do that today,' says Burstein. 'She was being asked to play adult roles with men more than twice her age. It's creepy.'

Smacks of scandal: Elizabeth Taylor's (left) first smooch was with the actor Robert Taylor when she was aged 15 and he was in his late 30s.

Will Hugh start counting calories with Heidi?

Now reportedly romancing glamorous 'vegan influencer' Heidi Kadlecova, will Hugh Bonneville be aided in his well-documented battle with the calories?

The Downton Abbey star's dramatic weight loss previously made headlines  but the actor, who confirmed his split from wife of 25 years Lulu last September, is currently back to his roly poly self.

Surely Heidi will prove more sympathetic than the first Mrs Bonneville? Hugh recalled her once bluntly telling him: 'You are as fat as a pig.' Enjoy the pine nuts, Hugh!

Frank's welcome attention

Frank Skinner boasts that when he became a celebrity he was suddenly attractive to women.

'For me, it was honestly like being a black cab without the light on,' he tells a podcast.

'So nobody raised a hand, and suddenly my light came on, and I was able to have, I believe the word is, sex.'

Aged 67, does Frank now more resemble a clapped-out minicab?
Councils in a major Australian city appear set to be forced into major u-turn on how parking tickets are issued after copping a huge backlash from drivers.

Local councils in Sydney have been ignoring a directive from the NSW government to stop parking officers issuing ticketless parking fines.

Unsuspecting drivers only discover they have been booked weeks later, instead of getting a ticket placed on their windscreen, reported The Daily Telegraph.

Under this system drivers lose the opportunity to challenge the fine by gathering evidence right after they have been booked.

The Minns' government is now preparing to totally ban the paperless parking fines.

The backflip will see council parking officers required to advise drivers they have been booked by leaving a physical card.

Councils are otherwise faced with the expensive option of changing every parking sign to warn drivers they could receive a fine without knowing.

Last financial year suburban councils raked in over $155million in revenue from ticketless parking fines off the back of a 47 per cent rise in the number issued.

In March, NSW Finance Minister Courtney Houssos (pictured) wrote to 128 councils and requested they go back to the old system of paper tickets left on a car's windscreen

Since Ms Houssos' request, 30 councils indicated they would go back to traditional paper fines, while other councils are holding out until forced by the state government

Over 800,000 drivers were hit with a paperless parking fine last year, compared with nearly 560,000 who received an on-the-spot ticket.

Paperless parking fines were initially brought in as a trial in 2020 by then Premier Gladys Berejiklian, before being expanded to more councils.

By March this year, 48 councils had implemented paperless parking fines.

In the City of Sydney Council, the number of parking fines jumped nearly 10 per cent in 2023-24 compared with the previous year.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore's council whacked drivers with almost $45million in fines.

Liverpool City Council in Sydney's south-west banked over $4million in parking fines last financial year, an annual increase of 20 per cent.

Paperless parking fines were initially brought in as a trial in 2020 by then Premier Gladys Berejiklian, before being expanded to more councils

After complaints from outraged drivers earlier this year, new councils were banned from introducing paperless parking fines by NSW Finance Minister Courtney Houssos.

In March, Ms Houssos wrote to 128 councils and requested they go back to the old system of paper tickets left on a car's windscreen.

'I am requesting your council enhances your parking fine process so that drivers are provided immediate, written notification to drivers at the time they are issued with a parking fine.

'This is currently not a requirement of the scheme.'

Since her request, 30 councils indicated they would go back to traditional paper fines, while other councils are holding out until forced by the state government.

Ms Houssos said feedback from drivers 'overwhelmingly' supports 'on-the-spot notifications of parking fines' instead of paperless tickets.

'While there are some benefits to the ticketless system, I am aware of community concerns around the issuing of ticketless parking fines, particularly the timeliness of fine notifications,' she said.

'If councils aren't willing to provide a commonsense fix, the NSW Government will step in and use our policy levers to ensure the ticketless parking fine system meets community expectations.'
Linda Reynolds has been slapped with a legal letter

Bruce Lehrmann has lashed out at Linda Reynolds for describing him as 'shifty' during her defamation case against Brittany Higgins - which his lawyer described as a 'Jerry Springer s**t show'.

Senator Reynolds is suing her former employee Ms Higgins over social media posts in 2022 and 2023 that allegedly implied she did not support the young Liberal staffer after Lehrmann raped her in 2019.

Ms Reynolds has long maintained that she did try to help Ms Higgins and claims Ms Higgins' posts damaged her reputation.

The four-week hearing in the WA Supreme Court began on Friday with Ms Reynolds' lawyer Martin Bennett delivering opening statements.

He said Ms Reynolds 'had marvellous intuition... she thought Lehrmann was shifty'.

On Tuesday, Ms Reynolds' team was hit with a legal letter from Lehrmann's lawyer Zali Burrows claiming the term 'shifty' implied he was 'a deceptive, crooked, fraudulent and dishonest character'.

In the letter, the term 'shifty' was described as a 'character assassination'.

Lehrmann had previously offered his services as a witness to help Ms Reynolds' case, but that relationship appears to have fractured beyond repair - he has now demanded a public apology.

Pictured: Linda Reynolds with Bruce Lehrmann, far right, at the Invictus Games Sydney in 2018

Linda Reynolds, pictured left, arriving in court on Monday with her lawyers. Martin Bennett is next to Ms Reynolds

According to the letter, Ms Reynolds hadn't described Lehrmann as 'shifty' prior to the current defamation proceedings.

On Monday, Ms Reynolds gave evidence in court saying Lehrmann had lied about his connections with former ASIO Director-General Duncan Lewis.

The senator told the court she and her chief-of-staff Fiona Brown had reservations about Lehrmann's future in the ministerial wing due to 'his behaviour and odd things he said'.

'Some people boast about things or people they know or things they do, and it was things like that we had concerns about.'

Speaking about Lehrmann's apparent connection to Mr Lewis, Ms Reynolds said it 'wasn't implausible' because he did have dealings with national security officials during his time working in the office of Attorney-General George Brandis.

She went on to say: 'Fiona knows [Mr Lewis] so she contacted him directly and he had never heard of Bruce, so that was not true.'

The letter said: 'Lehrmann denies claiming he was "friends" with Mr Lewis, but in fact had many prior dealings with him and found him personable and friendly.'

Bruce Lehrmann, second left, is pictured with Linda Reynolds, third from the right in the back row, when she was sworn in as defence industry minister in 2019

Brittany Higgins is pictured in blue, arriving at the WA Supreme Court for mediation in March

Lehrmann's legal team expressed concern that Ms Reynolds would continue to make unfavourable character assassinations against him.

'He does not wish to be part of the chaotic state of affairs (colloquially known as a "Jerry Springer s**t show"), especially in circumstances he does not have standing for a right of reply,' the letter read.

Ms Reynolds was asked to publish a public apology on X and Instagram.

She was also asked to clarify that Lehrmann 'did not claim to be friends with Mr Lewis'.

In April, Federal Court Justice Michael Lee found on a balance of probabilities that Lehrmann did rape Ms Higgins on a couch inside Ms Reynolds' defence suite in Parliament House in March 2019.

At the time, Ms Higgins and Lehrmann were political staffers for Ms Reynolds, who was the minister for defence industry.

Lehrmann has long-maintained that he did not rape Ms Higgins.

In May, launched an appeal to overturn Justice Lee's findings with Ms Burrows as his instructing solicitor.
Squatters taking over dozens of unoccupied properties have left Texas homeowners feeling overwhelmed with safety concerns.

The Texas Central Railway, in the past four years, has bought about 41 houses in White Oak Falls with the intention to raze them and use the land to build a high-speed railway that would run between Dallas and Houston.

But longtime residents of the area have revealed that instead of being bulldozed, these multi-bedroom homes have been taken over by squatters.

One property has particularly worried locals, with 'sex house' being scrawled across the front door.

Resident Maria Arzola expressed her worry and told Click2Houston: 'I don't feel safe for my family, for my grandkids, not even for myself. It's not fair for me. I pay my fees and I pay my taxes.'

White Oak Falls homeowners have been left riddled with safety concerns as squatters continue to turn dozens of unoccupied properties into 'sex houses'

Images show most of the company-owned properties in an extreme state of disrepair with smashed walls, shattered glass and entry doors broken into pieces

Images show most of the company-owned properties in an extreme state of disrepair with smashed walls, shattered glass and entry doors broken into pieces.

After months of living in uncertainty, White Oak Falls locals that are now attempting to sell their homes and move away are stuck in the area.

Nestor Cortez, one such homeowner who was not ready to sell a few years ago to Texas Central Railroad as he had recently moved in, now wants to leave, but moving is too expensive.

'Yeah, when I said I was ready to sell, they weren't buying any more houses,' he told the publication.

The Texas Central Railway has bought about 41 houses in White Oak Falls with the intention to raze them and use the land to build a high-speed railway but now all of them have been left broken

Squatting is legal in the US and eviction orders can only be issued after a property owner pursues judicial action in Texas

According to Texas laws, a squatter is somebody who is living on a land or in a building that is either unoccupied, abandoned, or foreclosed without the legal consent of the actual property owner.

Squatting is legal in the US and eviction orders can only be issued after a property owner pursues judicial action in Texas.

Due to this, the Homeowners' Association for White Oak Falls or the police cannot evict the 'tenants' police without a court order - which has further been confirmed by the association's President.

'We, as the HOA, have been ineffective in the sense that there are still squatters in the properties. However it's not due to lack of effort,' Scott Woodard, HOA President told Click2Houston.

The Dallas-based company had initially acquired acres of land in hopes to build a 240-mile high-speed railway with one stop in between Houston and Dallas

Woodard further added that his team was not happy about the situation and a 'lawyer for the HOA and an attorney for the Texas Central Railroad are in contact about the problem'.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the Texas Central Railway for a comment.

The Dallas-based company had initially acquired acres of land in hopes to build a 240-mile high-speed railway with one stop in between Houston and Dallas but has been facing numerous issues, with most notable one being the resignation of CEO Carlos Aguilar in 2022.
The owners of a Colorado funeral home where almost 200 bodies were found rotting were ordered to pay almost $1 billion to families whose loved ones' remains were abandoned.

Jon and Carie Hallford, a married couple in their 40s, were arrested last November after the decaying corpses were found in their Return to Nature Funeral Home.

The couple are currently facing a number of charges including abuse of a corpse, theft, money laundering and forgery - with a class action lawsuit filed by the families solved this week.

But Andrew Swan, an attorney representing the victims, admitted the owners would not be able to pay it.

'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. 'If nothing else,' Page said, this judgment 'will bring more understanding to the case.'

Jon and Carie Hallford face 250 charges of forgery, theft, money laundering and abuse of a corpse after nearly 200 decaying bodies were discovered at their funeral home

This week, a judge ordered the owners of the Nature Funeral Home (pictured) to pay $950 million to the families of their alleged victims

On Monday, a judge ordered the Hallfords to pay $950 million to the families.

After the judge slapped the couple with the staggering amount, Swan added that he hopes the result will serve as an example.

'We hope that the judgment sends an unmistakable message to the industry: Bad behavior has significant consequences,' he told NPR.

Although the families can attempt to collect the payment handed down by the judge, Swan clarified that it is 'unlikely that the defendants have any significant assets, unfortunately.'

Before the alleged plot was discovered, families claimed they were even handed urns of their loved ones' supposed ashes that were allegedly 'concrete dust.'

Their funeral home promised a more natural burial, offering to bury bodies without embalming fluids or metal caskets if families opted not to have remains cremated.

Relatives would pay upwards of $1,200 for an eco-friendly end, which also came with the promise of a tree planting in the Colorado National Forest.

The couple's funeral home promised an eco-friendly final act for relatives, who would pay upwards of $1,200 for amenities including tree planting in the Colorado National Forest

Chrystina Page, right, holds back Heather De Wolf, as she yells at Jon Hallford, left, as he leaves with his lawyers following a preliminary hearing, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024

But last November, investigators found almost 200 bodies in 'abhorrent conditions' inside the property, which had been left at room temperature to rot.

The bodies were found after neighbors issued complaints over a 'dead animal smell' covering the area around the funeral home.

Some of the bodies had been in the maggot-infested building for years before they were discovered following reports of a foul odor.

By the time of the raid it owed more than $120,000 in unpaid bills and had been repeatedly taken to court over unpaid wages and disputes with local medical centers.

When they were charged, investigators claimed the couple used money from the families to buy two vehicles worth over $120,000.

In addition to their funeral home, they used a building in the nearby rural community of Penrose as a body storage facility, prosecutors say.

In April, it was also alleged by federal prosecutors that the Hallfords lied to obtain $882,3000 in relief funds, which they spent on themselves instead of their business.

Samantha Naranjo (right) discovered that the body of mother Dorothy had been warehoused for more than a year in the dilapidated building

At a pre-trial hearing earlier this year, FBI Agent Andrew Cohen testified that money, an adjustment to a pandemic-era small business loan given to the Hallfords, was fraudulently obtained after Hallford lied by saying he was not behind on child support payments.

At an earlier hearing for Carie Hallford, prosecutors presented texts suggesting that she and her husband tried to cover up their financial difficulties by leaving the bodies at the Penrose site.

Relatives said they raised their suspicions with the couple but were ignored or brushed off by them every time.

When the family of retired Army officer Tanya Wilson received her ashes, her brother Elliot thought they were unusually heavy and confronted Carie Hallford.

When he took them to a nearby funeral director he was told 'I've never seen anything that looks like that in the range of what cremated remains would typically expect to look like.'

Two families were so suspicious they mixed the 'ashes' with water and found that they solidified.

Samantha Naranjo discovered that the body of mother Dorothy had been warehoused for more than a year in the dilapidated building.

She told KRDO: 'We were hurt, we were frustrated, now we're angry. We want justice. Not just for us, but every single one of those victims. Every one of them.

'Their family deserves to be at peace, the community deserves justice.'
A Western Australian tradie has been left $25,000 out of pocket after his ute was stolen just two days after purchasing it.

Carpenter and student Finbar Gaffney purchased the white 4x4 Toyota HiLux and took out an insurance policy for the new vehicle.

But just two days later, the ute was stolen with all his tools inside.

Having just moved into the area, Mr Gaffney took to social media shortly after to ask locals if they had seen his ute.

'Had the unfortunate surprise to find my new car stolen this morning,' he wrote in a post to Facebook.

'If anyone knows anything or might have footage please let me know.'

He later said his car was stolen about 10pm on July 23 and CCTV cameras captured the thief making off with his ute parked in the Fremantle area.

A friend of Mr Gaffney said the carpenter hadn't yet taken out insurance on the tools or the vehicle's canopy, which has left him $25,000 out of pocket.

Young carpenter Finbar Gaffney (pictured) has been left heartbroken and $25,000 out of pocket after his ute and tools were stolen just days after buying the vehicle

A friend of Mr Gaffney said the carpenter lost such a large amount after failing to take out insurance on the tools or the vehicle's canopy in time (pictured, Mr Gaffney's ute)

Friends of the WA tradie have rallied around him and set up a GoFundMe page to help him 'get back on his feet'.

'Finbar had been working away on a rural job to save up as he's currently studying while working as a chippy so it won't be easy to save the kind of money required to replace everything that has been stolen,' organiser Zebedee Dwyer said.

'To help him get back on his feet I'm hoping we can use this platform to raise some funds among his friends and the wider tradie community around WA who know what a good bloke he is and what a crushing blow this would be if it happened to one of us.'

While Finbar's insurance will likely cover the cost of the stolen ute, donated funds will go towards replacing tools and the vehicle's canopy.

At the time of publication, the page had raised more than $2,806.
A learner driver whose sister was killed in a 'tragic' road accident has walked free after prosecutors accepted she was not aware of the crash.

Asyai Luk, 24, returned before the County Court of Victoria on Wednesday morning and was slapped with a $600 fine after pleading guilty to careless driving and driving without supervision.

Handing down the sentence, Judge Kellie Blair said she had taken into account the 'unusual and exceptional circumstances' of the case when deciding not to record a conviction.

The court was told Luk had borrowed her mum's black Dodge wagon on the morning of November 7, 2022, before leaving home with her sister, Gol Luk, 24.

Shortly before 3pm that afternoon, Luk pulled over on High St in Sunshine before approaching a stranger and asking them to call the police, saying she had been 'attacked' by her sister.

CCTV from a neighbouring property captured Luk returning to the car and continuing to argue with Gol, who then exited the vehicle.

Tragedy struck when Gol attempted to re-enter as Luk sped off.

Gol was holding the passenger door and was dragged by the vehicle before striking the bullbar of a Nissan Patrol 'about a car length away'.

Asyai Luk, 24 (pictured) returned before the County Court of Victoria on Wednesday morning and was slapped with a $600 fine after pleading guilty to careless driving and driving without supervision

Asyai Luk (pictured left) with her sister Anong Luk also known as Gol (pictured right)

Footage previously shown to the court depicted Gol wailing in pain as neighbours rushed out and Luk continued to drive down the street.

Luk was arrested shortly after arriving home four hours later and her sister died from injuries at the Royal Melbourne Hospital that night.

Luk was initially charged with dangerous driving causing death and fleeing the scene of an accident; however, these charges were dropped in June after prosecutors accepted she was not aware of what happened to her sister.

Neighbours provided first aid at the scene of the accident before police arrived

'At the outset I acknowledge the grave consequences and loss of life that resulted from this tragic accident,' Judge Blair said.

The judge said she was sentencing Luk for the death and took into account the terrible results of the 'unusual and unforeseen circumstances'.

'I accept the episode occurred in less than a couple of seconds,' she said. 'This offending was momentary, unintended and in the circumstances of you being unaware of your sister's presence at the car door.'

The court was told the now single mother of a four-month-old boy continued to suffer flashbacks and nightmares of the incident and her family had suffered devastating impacts.

In a statement, the court was told the sisters' mother, Aleza Gwit, described the almost two years since as a 'curse she would not wish upon her worst enemy'.

'The impact has been profound and life-changing,' Judge Blair said.
An urgent search has been launched for a teenager who was last seen selling his phone before disappearing.

Krishank Karthik, 16 left his home in Truganina, in Melbourne's west, to go to Suzanne Cory High School in Werribee at 7.45am on Monday.

His family became concerned when he didn't return home that day and learned their son had not been to school for the previous two weeks.

The school believed he had been sick.

Krishank did not attend classes on the day he disappeared and was last seen at ML Mobiles in Melbourne's CBD where he sold his phone at 1.20pm.

The mobile phone shop contacted Krishank's family when they heard that he was missing.

His mother Shobana said the family are struggling to come to terms with his disappearance and were shocked when they were told he had skipped school.

'The school was surprised... I spoke to the principal and he said he was an A+ student and there was no study pressure,' she told the Herald Sun.

Krishank Karthik, 16 (pictured) left his home in Truganina, in Melbourne's west, at 7.45am on Monday to go to school, however it is understood he hasn't attended classes for the past two weeks

Ms Karthik uploaded a heartbreaking post to Facebook on Tuesday urging her son, who calls himself Krish, to come home.

'Krish come back home baba. We want you to be safe pls come back my baby you know we can't live without you, you are our life line,' she wrote.

'The family is devastated and we are waiting for his safe return'.

Krishank is around 177cm tall and was last seen wearing a grey hoodie, black track pants, black shoes and a pair of black Armani glasses.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Victoria Police for comment.

Krishank's aunt Mathangi Akhilesh said it is unusual for Krishank to go missing.

'We've spoken to his friends, they have been helping us with the investigation, and nothing unusual,' she told 7News.

'(It's) very out of character, Krishank is a family loving kid.'

Ms Akhilesh claimed she also saw Krishank at the Melbourne Central Shopping Centre around 1pm on Tuesday.

Footage from CCTV cameras at Krishank's home showed him leaving the property with some clothes and a briefcase.

Anyone who has any information has been urged to contact Weribee Police Station on 03 9742 9444.
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi is being heralded as the most high-profile Democrat to pressure Vice President Kamala Harris to choose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate.

Harris announced her VP pick Tuesday, choosing the 60-year-old Walz over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly.

Pelosi - and other House Democrats - were pushing for Walz because he was one of their own, according to Politico.

Walz served in the House of Representatives for 12 years before returning to Minnesota full-time to run for governor in 2018.

He came into Congress in 2006, in the same anti-President George W. Bush Democratic tidal wave that awarded Pelosi the speaker's gavel for the first time.

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi was the highest profile Democrat to push Vice President Kamala Harris to select Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate. Walz is a former U.S. House member

Harris selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (left) to be her running mate over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (right) and Sen. Mark Kelly (not pictured.) Harris got a push from Pelosi and other House members to pick a veteran of their chamber

He voted for the Affordable Care Act alongside his Democratic counterparts and survived the 2010 midterms, which then President Barack Obama coined a 'shellacking.'

Walz represented a Republican-leaning Minnesota district during his time serving on Capitol Hill, but since he was announced as Harris' VP former President Donald Trump and his Republican allies have tried to characterize the governor as an uber-liberal.

'I would not pigeonhole Tim Walz,' former Rep. Filemon Vela, a Democrat from Texas, told Politico.

Vela was good friends with Walz when they served together in Congress.

'I always found Tim to be very independent ... The reason that Nancy has such a great deal of respect for him is because she knows that whenever there were situations that he did disagree with her, that he was also respectful about it.'

Colleagues recalled Walz's self-deprecating jokes, Minnesota-themed gifts and told Politico that he's missed on the massive group chat of current and former House members - which Walz had to leave as his communications as governor are public record.

Online Americans were wowed that Pelosi was able to exert so much influence on the Democratic ticket.

Online Americans were wowed that Pelosi was able to exert so much influence on the Democratic ticket, with one user commenting: 'Nancy Pelosi single handedly conducting the 2024 Democratic ticket as a bit to promote her new book, the Art of Power'

Another X user posted a picture of Bridgerton's Lady Danbury - known for her matchmaking abilities - captioning it: 'Nancy Pelosi right now.'

She's largely credited with getting President Joe Biden to bow out of the race last month - paving the way for fellow Bay Area Democrat, Harris, to take over the top of the ticket.

And now Pelosi had a heavy hand in the Walz pick too.

'Nancy Pelosi single handedly conducting the 2024 Democratic ticket as a bit to promote her new book, the Art of Power,' commented one X user.

Another X user posted a picture of Bridgerton's Lady Danbury - known for her matchmaking abilities - captioning it: 'Nancy Pelosi right now.'

Pelosi played coy when pressed about her role in Biden's exit by CBS Lesley Stahl.

'Well, I've never shared any conversations with a president of the United States publicly,' Pelosi said.

Stahl then interjected: 'It's said that he's furious with you, is he?'

'Well, he knows that I love him very much,' Pelosi said.

She tried denying that she was a leader in the pressure campaign pushing the 81-year-old president to leave the race after his disastrous debate performance in late June.

'Let me say things I didn't do,' Pelosi said. 'I didn't call one person. I did not call one person. I could always say to him I never called anybody.'
A CNN panel flew into a frenzy after a conservative pundit claimed that Josh Shapiro was passed over as Kamala Harris' running mate because the Democratic party is 'awash in anti-Semitism.'

Contributor Scott Jennings, a former staffer to President George W. Bush, appeared to anger his fellow panelists after speculating Shapiro's religion was the primary reason for Harris excluding him from the ticket.

But the conversation quickly spiraled into offhand comments on abortion and school lunches.

Jennings initially claimed that Harris 'bowed down to the radical left' by opting for Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. He speculated that choosing Shapiro, who is Jewish, would have angered the extreme left wing of the party.

Jennings' remarks were quickly met with backlash from others on the panel, who bizarrely countered with the issue of January 6th and Walz's past support for free lunch meals for schoolchildren.

Conservative CNN pundit Scott Jennings received an angry reaction from fellow panelists after claiming the Democratic Party is 'awash in anti-Semitism'

Jennings' comments on the presidential race came shortly after Harris introduced Walz as her VP pick at a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday.

Shapiro had been seen as the odds-on favorite to be on Harris' ticket, however his past support for Israel became a sticking point for many amid outrage over high civilian casualties in Gaza in recent months.

Following protests across the nation and waning support among young voters within the Democratic Party, Jennings argued that Harris caved to pressure by not selecting Shapiro.

'Kamala Harris absolutely bowed down to the radical left in her party by not picking Shapiro, who is Jewish. There was a nasty campaign run against him,' he said.

'Everybody knows it, no one wants to admit it, but everybody knows it, and she wound up choosing the person who was not Jewish and not as talented.'

Contributor Ashley Allison quickly fired back at Jennings' remarks, equating Harris' decision with 'one of the big issues in this election - a woman's right to choose.'

'Guess what? Kamala Harris got a choice to make, and she got to make the choice of who was going to be her running mate and who she was going to go into the next 90 days and maybe the next four years and maybe the next eight years with,' she said.

'You don't get to tell her who she has to run with, she gets to choose that, that's what leaders do.'

Contributor Ashley Allison, left, countered Jennings' remarks by bringing up the issue of January 6th and Walz's past support for free lunch meals for schoolchildren

The CNN panel sparred over why Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who was once the odd-on favorite of being the Democrats' VP nominee, was passed over by Kamala Harris

Although Jennings had not brought up Walz's past support for free school lunch meals for children, Allison then claimed that the conservative thought Walz 'is a radical because he wants to feed kids.'

'You know who gets hungry? White kids, black kids, brown kids, poor kids get hungry,' she continued.

'I didn't say that,' Jennings responded.

Allison then compared Walz's characterization as a 'radical' to Donald Trump failing to tell his supporters that he lost the election before the January 6th riots following the last election.

'That's radical, that's who your guy is,' she concluded.

Former advisor to Barack Obama David Axelrod waded into the debate as he dismissed Jennings' speculation over Harris' thinking.

'Anti-Semitism is something that a lot of us have faced in different ways, and my family has faced,' he said. 'I don't like to see it exploited.'

As Jennings tried to argue back, correspondent Jamie Gangel interjected with 'sources' on Harris' VP vetting process.

On Tuesday, Harris opted for Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate over Shapiro

'Scott, Scott, Scott,' she began. 'One moment, take the beat. I think its important to add to that two things that we have from our reporting,' she said.

'One is that even going into this selection, Josh Shapiro had some, lets just say, hesitancy or questions about whether he wanted to be the number two.

'You may remember that three weeks ago, there were a lot of people who were not sure that Kamala Harris was going to be the most exciting ticket. It feels very different now, and he is someone who definitely has ambitions to run and he was looking at down the road.

'And we have new reporting tonight from our team that, in fact, when he went into his vetting meeting and also in his in-person meeting with Harris, he made it very clear what kind of vice president he wanted this to be.

'It was much more of a two for the price of one. He wants to be in the room. He wanted to have a real say in these things.'
A social media user has posted an update about the mysterious packages that have been left in letterboxes across a major Australian city.

Earlier this week NSW Health issued a warning over strange 'gifts' being placed in Sydney letterboxes claiming to be from the department.

On Monday a Reddit user posted how their neighbour received one of the packages and had a reaction after eating the contents.

The neighbour is fine, the Reddit user wrote.

From what I've been told, it sounded like an allergic reaction.'

'Family gave her an antihistamine and (she) started feeling better, but still informed the police which kickstarted this event.

The Reddit poster also received one of the packages and wrote how emergency services responded.

We are surrounded by police cars NSW trucks and HAZMAT.

A Facebook user posted a photo of the contents of one of the mysterious packages that had been left in letterboxes across Sydney

NSW Health has urged anyone who receives a strange 'gift' in their letterbox not to open it and safely dispose of the package (pictured)

The user wrote they threw the package away immediately and one of the hazmat crew went through their rubbish and retrieved it.

They said the hazmat crew searched the storm drains along their street and were on the scene for about two hours.

The health department issued a warning on Monday, urging recipients to be cautious of the packages.

'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,' the department wrote on social media.

'We have reported this matter to NSW Police.

'We strongly advise anyone who has received such a package to safely dispose of it without opening it.'

NSW Health added the department would never leave gifts in people's letterboxes.

At a press conference on Tuesday, NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the department would 'never communicate with people or patients in this way'.

'We wont be putting gifts in a letter box for people, thats not the way NSW Health does business,' Mr Park said.

The small packages wrapped in what appears to be gauze also included a small card featuring legitimate NSW Health phone numbers and emails.

One card had a small hand-written message that said: 'Compliments of Our Father.'

One recipient said they wore gloves when removing one of the packages from their letterbox due to concerns about its contents.

'I checked my video cameras,' she said.

CCTV footage from a home which received one of the packages shows a man in a dark navy jacket and a trolley (pictured) appearing to drop it in the resident's letterbox

'There's a man walking around with one of those trolleys you move large objects with, like a cupboard or drawers.'

CCTV footage showed a man in a dark navy jacket dragging a trolley and placing the package in her letterbox.

A neighbour said they had opened the 'gift' only to find a small cumquat.

Another person claimed to have found one of the weird packages in their letterbox on Monday.

The NSW Police Force issued a warning about the packages on social media on Tuesday.

'NSW Police are investigating after reports of packages being received in mailboxes falsely claiming to have been sent by NSW Health.

'The public is advised that if they receive an item of this nature, they should avoid handling the package and contact police immediately.

'Members of the public coming into contact with these items should wash their hands thoroughly.'

Daily Mail Australia contacted the NSW Police Force and NSW Health and was told there are no further updates.

NSW Police urge anyone with information to contact their local police or Crime Stoppers on on 1800 333 000.
A dream job has just opened up as a remote Michigan island best known for its solitude is looking to hire a teacher for it's four-children school - but with a catch.

The Bois Blanc island in Lake Huron is home to about a 100 people and is known as the state's smallest school district.

According to state records, the Bois Blanc Pines School school has never had more than five students enrolled at a time in the past decade.

While working at this one to two room schoolhouse may seem like a dream, the island's weather conditions and lack of connectivity make it nearly impossible for the administration to retain any teacher.

The Bois Blanc island in Lake Huron is home to about a 100 people and is known as the state's smallest school district

Past school teachers have found it nearly impossible to find affordable and weatherproof housing while also tolerating the harsh weather.

There are also very few transport options as most locals rely on motor vehicles to travel many miles of unpaved roads and trails.

The only way to reach Cheboygan, which is the nearest mainland, is by a car ferry in the summer and on a plane in the winter.

As a result, year-round residents tend to stock up on groceries before the ferry stops going back and forth as it gets colder and then coordinate among themselves to buy plane tickets in the colder months when they need to go into town.

The island also has only one small store/restaurant, one tavern, post office, fire hall, township office, a church and a chapel.

The Bois Blanc Pines School school has never had more than five students enrolled at a time in the past decade and is now struggling to find a teacher due to the island's weather conditions and lack of connectivity

The island also has only one small store/restaurant, one tavern, post office, fire hall, township office, a church and a chapel

Christine Hasbrouck, a teacher aide whose 11-year-old grandson is one of the students at the K-8 school told Bridge Michigan: 'I tell everybody, "We are remote Alaska without the mountains".

'That is what we are here. And a lot of people don't understand that we're not like Mackinac Island. Our ferries don't run three-quarters of the year or all year long.'

Apart from the island's own challenges, school board president Cindy Riker also believes that it is impossible to find a teacher who wishes to educate students between the ages of 5 to 14 during the ongoing national shortage.

'Our challenge nownot only because of the island but just because [of] the way that the teachers in this world are now, there's such a lack of.

'Getting a seasoned teacher is probably out of the question,' she told the publication.

The ongoing staff issue is becoming a huge concern for parents on the island as many worry about the quality of primary education their children are receiving

There are also very few transport options across the scenic island as most locals rely motor vehicles to travel its many miles of unpaved roads and trails

The ongoing staff issue is becoming a huge concern for parents on the island as many worry about the quality of primary education their children are receiving.

School board member Amanda Beugly explained that while she wishes to make the island her familys forever home, she won't be letting her fifth-grade son and a seventh-grade daughter start a new school year at the academy without an 'experienced teacher'.

'I do think its such a challenging position that you do need to have that experience because you don't have the same support structure in a one-room schoolhouse that you would have in a regular school where you have other teachers you could run to for help,' the concerned parent noted.

David Arsen, a Michigan State University researcher explained that if the district is unable to hire someone soon, it may turn to a certified teacher who works remotely and instructs students online - leaving a classroom aide to help students in person.
Two Oklahoma college girls on a dream vacation wound up dangerously sick after getting a drink at a resort bar in Mexico.

Zara Hull and Kaylie Pitze, students at Oklahoma Christian University, took a photo at the Cancun beach and then headed to the resort pool on Friday when their dream vacation with their boyfriends turned into a nightmare.

The two girls are now back in the US, but Hull remains stuck in the hospital as doctors continue to work to determine what may have happened to them.

The girls had ordered a glass of water from the pool bar, when they suddenly slumped over, and Zara, 20, started having some 'jerking movements,' her boyfriend's mother, Stephanie Snider, told KOCO.

'The last memory I have is just walking in the pool,' Pitze told News 9.

Zara Hull and Kaylie Pitze, students at Oklahoma Christian University, became dangerously sick on their dream vacation to Cancun

The two Oklahoma Christian University students were on a trip with their boyfriends

The girls were then sent to their rooms in wheelchairs, with Pitze later recounting: 'We were out, couldn't walk, couldn't talk, couldn't do anything.'

The following morning, Pitze said, 'It hurt to open my eyes, I was very nauseous, I couldn't move.'

She then found out that Hull was sent to a local Mexican hospital overnight.

'I started having convulsions in my stomach, so they called 911,' Hull recounted.

But upon arrival at the hospital, Mexican officials demanded a $10,000 deposit to begin her treatment, her family has said.

She then received a CT scan and was placed in the ICU, while her boyfriend, Jake, had to pay $200 to stay in a room at the hospital overnight, an online fundraiser for Hulls' medical bills says.

Meanwhile, her seizures continued throughout the night, and the Mexican doctors intubated her.

'The hospital was NOT treating her, they were pumping her full of so many drugs to keep her sedated, Snider wrote on Facebook.

'They intubated her and told Jake it was 'sedation for the MRI,' she continued. 'There was no reason to sedate her, let alone intubate her.'

'We knew we needed to get her back and to the US.'

Hull, 20, was sent to a Mexican hospital after she started having convulsions

Her boyfriend, Jake, had to pay $200 to stay in a room at the hospital overnight

Hull's family and family friends then reached out to the US Embassy, and they advised them to get her back to the States immediately.

But hospital staff demanded even more money to release her, and the air ambulance to bring Hull back to the United States cost $26,000.

'We tried to say they had to release her, and I was told she would not be released until we paid,' Snider said.

'We were told the amount would just continue to go up until they were paid.'

Hospitals back home kept refusing to admit Hull because the hospital in Mexico would not send over paperwork.

'They tried to say they didn't even have a fax machine to send it,' Snider said.

Hull's family friends said the hospital in Mexico kept her sedated

Hospitals back in the United States refused to admit Hull because the Mexican hospital refused to send over the paperwork

Fortunately, a family friend picked up the tab and Hull arrived in the United States late Saturday night.

Snider's son was eventually able to get a partial list of some of the medication that the Mexican doctors gave Hull 'and the doctors said that nothing they gave her was helping her, it was just meds to keep her very sedated,' she said.

The doctors have since run multiple tests, and Hull's family says they are out $60,000 between getting her home and getting her treatments.

But still they do not have any answers about what may have happened - but they suspect Hull's and Pitze's water was spiked with synthetic fentanyl.

'We don't have a lot of answers, we don't know a lot, we don't know what she was given in there hospital down there, we don't know what she was given at the resort,' Rilee Works, Hull's mother, told News 9.

Hull says she now worries that she will never be able to get better

Hull's family says they are out $60,000 between getting her home and getting her treatments

But since being back in the United States, Hull has made some progress, her family has said.

On Sunday, she was able to start breathing on her own and was taken off a ventilator, a family friend wrote in an online fundraiser for her medical expenses.

'She is awake and able to communicate with family and her health care team,' the update said.

Then on Monday night, her family friend said she was able to get out of bed, and with help she was able to walk to the bathroom.

She has since been moved out of the ICU and is now in a neurology unit out of precaution, even though she does not have neurological problems.

Still, she says she is struggling - even as her friends from Mexico came to visit her in the hospital.

'It's so scary because there's times I am like, 'Am I going to make it out of this?' she said.

Pitze had a tough 24 hours after she was apparently drugged, and apparently still does not feel back to herself

Pitze, meanwhile, did not end up in the hospital, but had a tough 24 hours after she was apparently drugged.

'It's been three days now and she still doesn't feel back to herself,' Snider wrote.

'Neither of the girls have any memory of what happened after they took that last drink, which happened to have been a glass of WATER.'

She went on to say that the situation has 'caused so much anxiety and stress for our families.

'Something must be done to stop these things from happening. It's every parent's nightmare,' Snider said.

'Closing my eyes at night and thinking of what COULD HAVE happened is unbearable.'

Snider then urged other parents to stop their children from going on such vacations.

'There is a real problem happening with young people, especially girls, being drugged unknowingly, trafficking and extortion of money.

'Hug your babies (and even your not-such-babies anymore) tight tonight and pray this never happens to your family.'
A mother who 'spent all her money on smokes' and neglected her children so much they were forced to scrounge for food on the floor has escaped jail.

The 43-year-old woman appeared in ACT Magistrates Court this week on multiple charges including eight counts of child neglect and one count of failing to provide appropriate care for an animal in regards to her pet dog.

Magistrate Jane Campbell dismissed 11 charges on mental health grounds but the woman did plead guilty to failing to provide a dog with food, water and a clean environment, resulting in a 12-month good behaviour bond.

Authorities were tipped off in 2022 when a plumber visited the housing commission property where the four children, aged between two and eight, lived and found 'about two years worth of accumulated filth', The Canberra Times reported.

According to police documents, the tradie, who was left traumatised by the state of the house, slipped on 'slime' that coated parts of the floor and could not go into some rooms because they were blocked off by piles of mess.

Two dogs were found at the house which appeared to have no food or water.

Interviews of the children by authorities revealed they were not properly fed, though the eight-year-old would occasionally try to cook for the other children despite the kitchen teeming with cockroaches, spiders and mice.

The children said they were 'often hungry' and would eat 'candies and whatever else they could find on the floor'. One child said there had been previous pet dogs but they had died because they weren't fed.

The woman fronted ACT Magistrates Court on a raft of charges including eight counts of child neglect

The woman's defence lawyer said the children were not harmed but the magistrate disagreed saying in her opinion there would be trauma (stock image)

A report found the house in need of an estimated $113,000 worth of repairs and the family was moved out to a hotel.

But police said the hotel room quickly fell into a similar state.

Officers observed 'faeces on every towel, rotten food in the fridge and only one toothbrush between five people'.

More faeces were found on walls in the lounge area and margarine was found spilled on the beds.

The police prosecutor told the court the woman's 'inability to maintain a clean environment has been a very long-standing issue'.

She said workers were forced to wear PPE gear to visit the house and a psychologist noted at a visit a few months ago the woman appeared to have not washed or brushed her teeth in weeks.

The woman's defence lawyer said his client has since been receiving medical treatment for multiple mental illnesses which were a significant factor in her behaviour and that she 'just couldn't cope' with four active children.

He argued the children were unharmed but Magistrate Campbell disagreed saying the house was unsafe and she expected 'ongoing psychological trauma' from the neglect they experienced.

The children are no longer in the custody of the woman and she is required to continue mental health treatment.

She was also given a three-year ban on owning any pets.
A young woman has told a jury that three friends of a man she met on Tinder came to her apartment unannounced and gang raped her when she got out of the shower.

The now 25-year-old described the alleged multiple assaults when she gave evidence against all four men in Sydney's Downing Centre District Court on Wednesday.

Omar El-Sayed, 25, Rami Katlan, 26 and Mohammed Ali, 21, are standing trial over two counts of sexual intercourse without consent and two counts of aggravated sexual assault in company.

Adam Kabbout, 26, is charged with six counts of aggravated sexual assault in company.

Kabbout is not accused of having sex with the woman in her home at Belmore in Sydney's south-west, but the Crown alleges he encouraged the other three men to rape her.

El-Sayed, Katlin and Ali - none of whom had met the woman before the alleged rapes - say any sex they had with her was consensual.

Each of them has pleaded not guilty to assaulting the woman in the early hours of April 16, 2022, after all except Ali attended Olympic Park for a Good Friday NRL game between the Bulldogs and Souths.

The alleged victim said she met Kabbout on Tinder about a year before that night, and the pair had exchanged messages on Snapchat, where he used the name 'Adam Kay'.

A young woman has told a jury that three friends of a man she met on Tinder came to her apartment unannounced and when she got out of the shower they gang raped her. Adam Kabbout is pictured outside court on Wednesday

'They would just be quick messages - "Hey, are you free? Are you doing anything?" - just stuff like that,' she told the jury.

On April 15, 2022, the woman had gone to dinner with friends in the city and communicated with Kabbout over Snapchat.

'He asked me if I was free and I knew that dinner wasn't going to take long so I said "Later on tonight, yes",' she told the jury.

The woman, who gave her testimony via audio-visual link, was shown transcripts of her conversation with Kabbout which allegedly included him telling her, 'It's only three guys'.

'When he said it's only three guys I assumed that they were going to, like, it was going to be sexual with three guys,' she told the jury.

'I said maybe not.'

The woman, who was then 23, said she met Kabbout in person for the first time outside her apartment and they went straight to her bedroom once inside.

'He told me to come over to where he was sitting,' she said. 'And then we were kissing. And then I said that I was going to take a shower.'

Omar El-Sayed, Rami Katlan (above), and Mohammed Ali are standing trial over two counts of sexual intercourse without consent and two counts of aggravated sexual assault in company

After showering for 10 or 15 minutes the woman said she found Kabbout and four other men - the fifth man is not charged with any offence - outside her bedroom.

'I went back into my room and kind of closed the door,' she said. 'Adam came inside and I said, "Who are they? What are they doing here" and "I don't want them in here".

'I think he dismissed me and my questions. [Kabbout] just said, "It's OK, don't worry about that".'

The woman said Kabbout left her bedroom and she heard the men outside have a conversation in a language she did not understand.

Kabbout then came back into the bedroom with one of the group, she told the jury.

'He goes, like, "Suck him off",' she said.

'I moved closer to them and I said that I didn't want to and I didn't want to do anything but I was scared and he told me to just do it so I did.'

The woman said after Kabbout left the room she had intercourse with the man.

'I just remember I kept saying that I didn't want this, I didn't want to do this,' she said.

'When he finished he went to the bathroom and Adam came inside.'

The woman said when she told Kabbout she wanted he men to leave he replied, 'Not yet'.

She told the jury a second man came into the room and raped her in a similar way to the first and that he was then followed by a third.

The woman said she was in tears while being allegedly raped by the second and third men and continued to protest about what was being done to her.

Omar El-Sayed, Rami Katlan and Mohammed Ali (pictured above outside court) say any sex they had with the woman was consensual

During the alleged assaults Kabbout came in and out of the bedroom, the woman said.

'He would just watch what we were doing,' she said. 'He would just come and look.'

The woman said after the third man left her room Kabbout came back inside.

'I said "I don't want to do it anymore, can you please leave?",' she told the jury. 'He said, "OK, your loss" and then they left.'

Kabbout's lawyer April Francis previously told the jury the woman had 'positively misled police' about her communications with Kabbout and the nature of their relationship.

Ms Francis said it was in dispute the woman had not agreed to Kabbout inviting the other men to the apartment.

'She led the accused to believe that she was interested in sexual activity of this kind,' Ms Francis said.

'That explains why the topic was raised... before the accused arrives at her premises.'

Adam Kabbout (above) is not accused of having sex with the woman at her apartment in Sydney's west but the Crown alleges he encouraged the other three men to rape her

Ms Francis has also said that before and after the alleged rapes the woman conducted internet searches for 'very graphic' material featuring multiple men having sex with one female.

James Trevalion, for El-Sayed, said on Wednesday there was no dispute his client had sex with the woman but he maintained any such activity was consensual.

Mr Trevalion told the jury at the time of the alleged offences El-Sayed had been about to get married and they must not make moral judgements about him cheating on his fiancee.

Angela Cook SC, for Katlan, said her client had engaged in a single consensual act of oral sex with the alleged victim.

Ms Cook said the woman had 'demonstrated dishonesty and deception' and had told a friend after the alleged rapes, 'Only two actually f***ed me'.

Ali's barrister Julia Hickleton told the jury her client had consensual sex with the complainant and 'this is not a one-sided story'.

'You may find it a little confronting that [the alleged victim] willingly participated in sequential sexual acts with three men,' she said.

'This is not a court of morality. It is a court of fact.'

The trial before Judge Leonie Flannery continues.
Courtroom 5.2 in Sydney's Downing Centre was bustling with activity at 9.30am on Wednesday.

Magistrate Jennifer Atkinson motored through her lengthy list: marking dates for future hearings, booking interpreters and deciding bail conditions - the humdrum details that keep the criminal justice system ticking over.

Amid the two-dozen gathered lawyers, police officers, family members and court staff sat troubled ex-TV star Andrew O'Keefe - his second appearance in the court complex in as many days.

At that point, it was the former host of Deal or No Deal's only scheduled court appearance for the day - before it was marred by yet another arrest.

For so much of his life O'Keefe, 52, has been the centre of attention, the star of the show.

But in courtroom 5.2 his stardust was faded to a dull grey like the thinning hair around his temples.

His presence generated no whispered glances or knowing stares. There was no media pack eager to transcribe every cough and spit.

Andrew O'Keefe (pictured), 52, appeared in court on Wednesday morning where he admitted his string of drug-related and DV offences were a 'tangled mess'

It has, after all, been almost five years since the onetime Seven star last appeared on the small screen.

The intervening period has seen a seemingly endless and increasingly sad revolving door of arrests and court appearances.

O'Keefe is currently appealing his January conviction for drug-related and domestic violence offences.

Although the old charm was still evident in the smiles he beamed at court officers, O'Keefe was visibly nervous as he waited patiently while four other cases were heard before his.

He oscillated between drumming his left foot up and down, adjusting his forest green tie, sipping from a bottle of water and repeatedly clearing his throat.

The member of the Order of Australia fanned himself with a sheaf of court documents and tapped away on his laptop as his brother arrived behind him to offer words of encouragement.

Shortly before 10am, his matter was called.

O'Keefe, a lawyer by training, stood up to represent himself over allegations he breached a violence protection order put in place on behalf of his former partner.

Police alleged he had breached the order when he put his foot inside the door of the womans home before allegedly intimidating a man there in late July.

The father-of-three was also concerned about a clash of dates for two forthcoming court appearances, such is his sad familiarity with Sydney's busiest courthouse.

O'Keefe told the court there was a 'shifting about what was going to be pled to on the other side', indicating he would enter pleas in court next week.

Its a tangled mess, your honour,' he admitted to Magistrate Atkinson.

He appeared to shake his head furiously as she told him both matters could be adjourned to August 14.

Happier times: Andrew O'Keefe pictured at Tamarama Beach in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs in 2008

We are professional decision makers, we have to exercise judgment and to sort out matters, Magistrate Atkinson reassured him at the conclusion of the four-minute hearing.

O'Keefe was upbeat and joked with reporters as he strutted out of the courtroom doors at 10.04am.

Asked if he thought he might appear on TV again, he replied: 'I doubt it's any time soon, no.'

He admitted to having a problems with addiction in the past but claimed he was over it.

'I'm good now,' he insisted, as he marched off into the late winter sunshine.

But by 1pm - less than two hours later - he would be arrested again at his Vaucluse home, accused of breaching his bail conditions.

It is understood he contacted the alleged victim of intimidation, who is also a prosecution witness.

'He was taken to Waverley Police Station and will appear before Waverley Local Court to have his bail re-determined,' a NSW Police spokesperson said.

O'Keefe was upbeat and joked with reporters as he strutted out of the courtroom doors at 10.04am on Wednesday. But by 1pm - less than two hours later - he would be arrested again at his Vaucluse home, accused of breaching his bail conditions

O'Keefe told the Sydney Morning Herald he had been arrested after reporting his ex-partner to police because she was 'threatening to commit suicide repeatedly'.

'I got out of court to discover a message that said she was just about to do it. I called triple zero and went to the police station to report it, as a consequence of which I was arrested over an order that I didnt know existed,' he told the paper.

Magistrate Michael Barko urged O'Keefe to 'control himself' and resist from contacting his ex.

'Dont push boundaries. If she calls you tonight and says, "Hello darling, please call me back" and you call her back, youre committing a crime,' said Magistrate Barko

'Dont fall into that trap of being in breach of the order, dont come to the court with tears in your eyes.'

OKeefe was, once again, granted bail on the condition that he reports to Rose Bay Police station three times a week, refrains from drinking alcohol or doing drugs and does not enter Point Piper.

Following the July incident, O'Keefe was granted bail after he was charged with intimidation and breaching an apprehended violence order.

That day, Sunday July 28, police officers stopped O'Keefe on Cranbrook Road in Sydney's affluent suburb of Bellevue Hill at 11.45am after he allegedly appeared 'drug-affected' behind the wheel of a Mercedes sedan.

It is alleged that earlier in the day he intimidated a man at his former partner's home.

O'Keefe 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.

For now, it's another court matter to add to his seemingly ever-growing list.

On Tuesday, after recording a small win by avoiding a criminal conviction for driving without a licence, O'Keefe even joked on the courthouse steps that he 'can't stay away from the place'.

But the troubled star cut a forlorn and downcast figure later on Tuesday afternoon when he was pictured slumped on a stone bench in a Paddington park in the city's exclusive Eastern Suburbs.

Perhaps he was mulling over the magistrate's comments.

There are many who believe O'Keefe has been dealt with leniently by the courts. But there are also huge numbers of people who would love to see him returned to his former glory (pictured with his ex-wife at the 2009 Logie Awards)

'The sad reality is you're no stranger to this place, albeit for more serious offending'.' Magistrate Michael Allen had told him.

This much was apparent last night when Channel Nine published troubling footage of O'Keefe shouting at police officers after being arrested for a 'violent and degrading' assault in September 2021.

'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?'

There are many who believe O'Keefe has been dealt with leniently by the courts.

But there are also huge numbers of people who would love to see him returned to his former glory. After all, everyone loves a redemption story.

One Daily Mail Australia reader said they 'had the pleasure of meeting AOK a few years back and he was every bit the gentleman and down-to-earth'.

'I wish him the best in his road to recovery and self discovery. Do it for your kids, Andrew,' they commented.

Another added: 'Im cheering for the redemption story, come on Andrew, get it together mate.'
As Kamala Harris finalized her decision on who would be her running mate, Tim Walz made a startling admission - he had never used a teleprompter.

The Minnesota Governor, 60, told Harris' vetting team that he would need a crash course on using the device if selected.

It comes in start contrast to Joe Biden, who's been heavily reliant on them during live speeches in the last few months. But Walz's confession didn't stop him 'acing' the final interview, sources told CNN.

The outlet reported that Walz endeared himself to Harris and her team by being candid about his vulnerabilities, which also included being a 'bad debater' and having little national name recognition.

By the time the vetting process was over, 'everyone loved' Walz, sources told the network, helping him beat the last two names on Harris' shortlist - Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.

Tim Walz reportedly confessed to Kamala Harris' vetting team that he would need to be taught to use a teleprompter before becoming her running mate

The Minnesota Governor was said to have won over the Vice-President with his pragmatic approach to being on her ticket, including rejecting the notion he would run for president himself one day

To win a place on Harris' ticket, Walz survived a rigorous process from her vetting team to gauge his compatibility on the campaign trail and possible time in the White House.

During the final stages, Walz reportedly outshone the rest by demonstrating that he would be a 'team player.'

Sources familiar with Walz's meeting with Harris' team said that when asked how he saw his role as vice president, he said he would carry out his duties however Harris wanted him to.

The Minnesota Governor further impressed with his apparent intention to not overshadow Harris, and said he wouldn't need to be the final person in the room before she made a decision - unless she wanted him to be.

One of the members of the vetting team, Cedric Richmond, a former Louisiana congressman and Biden advisor, told CNN that it was Walz's pragmatic approach that sealed the deal.

'He had a very clear understanding that it was to be a partner, but to support the president, go out and connect with America and be that governing partner,' he said.

'It's not the easiest of positions, but it's a very important position.'

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was reportedly in the final shortlist, but turned off Harris after having 'too many questions' over his role as VP

Arizona Senator and former NASA astronaut Mark Kelly was also reportedly on Harris' final shortlist, but Walz 'aced' his interview to seal his spot on the ticket

Walz also dismissed any claim that he had his own presidential ambitions in the future, possibly giving him a leg-up over Shapiro who pundits have speculated has plans to run for the White House down the line.

This reportedly stuck with Harris after she was done with her final interviews, as she did not expect Walz to be so open about not seeking the presidency himself.

Richmond said: 'That showed his willingness to say, 'Look I'm not concerned about my image or my approval rating or what's next for me in the next chapter of life. I'm going to stay in this moment, be your vice president, run through walls, fight for the American people and demonstrate our values.'

'That's a strong and compelling argument,' he added.

Another source concluded that Walz's final interview was a 'home run.'

The same could not be said of Shapiro, who reportedly struggled to strike the same tone as he asked 'a lot of questions' about what his role as VP would entail.

'He was negotiating the job with her, while Walz was saying, 'What can I do to help?'' an insider told CNN.

A source familiar with Shapiro's final meeting with Harris said he came off as overly ambitious, which made for a 'striking contrast' between himself and Walz.

Shapiro's support for Israel was also seen as a potential sticking point, with one insider saying Harris was keen to avoid ripping 'that scab back open' after protests over civilian casualties in Gaza earlier in the year.

Although Harris saw a surge in the polls after she announced her presidential campaign just weeks ago, experts were concerned that she may struggle to bring together a wide enough voter base to defeat Donald Trump in November.

An insider said that although Walz is not from a swing state, his folksy, midwestern demeanor may help where Harris falls short.

'He hunts, he fishes, you want to have a beer with him,' the source, who was not named, told CNN.

It was Walz's folky, midwestern demeanor that helped endear him to Harris' VP vetting team, according to insiders

'He will play in Michigan, Wisconsin, Western Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina', the source added, with staffers reportedly joking that he will lock up a 'Blue Walz' - a pun on the 'Blue Wall' that led Joe Biden to win the White House in 2020.

'(Walz) talks and looks like a lot of the voters we've lost to Trump,' added another insider.

Those who knew the ins-and-outs of Harris' vetting process said that Walz ultimately came off as a 'happy warrior' type, who would bring 'joy and excitement' to the campaign trail.

CNN reported that although former Attorney General Eric Holder was a prominent member of the vetting team, three others worked behind-the-scenes to find the right running mate.

This was Richmond, along with former Boston mayor and Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and Nevada Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, each of whom are close to Harris.

They reportedly whittled the shortlist down to nine candidates at first, before pushing six into video calls with the committee.

After these interviews, Walz and Shapiro emerged as the clear favorites, with Kelly on the final podium as a third option for Harris.

Walz was reportedly helped over the line onto the Democratic ticket by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi

But for Walz to edge out his competitors, he gathered a number of Democratic Party bigwigs to propel him across the finish line - with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi leading the way.

Former President Barack Obama also offered a glowing review of Walz, and after his recent success on social media, Harris reportedly found herself 'liking the way (Walz) operates.'

When the official call came in for Walz, he was reportedly at his home with his wife and two children waiting for the decision.

But he almost missed the most important phone call of his life when it came through on a blocked number, which Walz ignored as he didn't want to miss the call from Harris.

The vice president then got him on a second try, and the Minnesota Governor was promptly handed his victory speech as he celebrated with his family.

He then ordered donuts for staffers and thanked them for their help, and practiced using a teleprompter for the first time in anticipation of his introductory rally with Harris in Philadelphia on Tuesday.
A child's hands allegedly caught on fire when they touched a plasma globe soon after using hand sanitiser at a well-known science and technology attraction.

The alleged incident happened at popular attraction Questacon in Canberra in July 2022.

The hand sanitiser had been supplied by the science centre.

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources, which oversees Questacon, has now been charged by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions with a criminal breach of the federal Work Health and Safety Act.

It is alleged the child suffered burns that caused 'serious injuries' to their hands and wrists.

'Comcares investigation found a spark from the plasma globe ignited the alcohol-based hand sanitiser used by the child and supplied by Questacon,' the federal work health and safety authority said in a statement released on Wednesday.

Questacon is accused of failing to comply a health and safety duty and thereby exposing an individual to the risk of death or serious injury.

Comcare alleges the department failed in its duty under the legislation and believes it could have undertaken four measures to have 'eliminated or minimised risks'.

It is alleged a nine-year-old's hands caught on fire in July 2022 at Questacon (pictured, the attraction in Canberra)

It is alleged the child used hand sanitiser provided by Questacon and when they touched a plasma globe their hands caught fire and they suffered serious injuries (stock image)

One of the measures would have been to remove plasma globes at Questacon once they were aware of the fire hazard from alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

The department could have also limited the use and operation of the plasma globes to Questacon workers.

Another suggestion Comcare put forward was that the department should provide non-alcohol-based hand sanitiser or portable handwashing stations with soap.

Comcare also believed the department could have warned visitors to Questacon about the risk of fire and spark ignition.

Questacon is an agency of Department of Industry, Science and Resources (pictured Questacon with a periodic table light projection on its exterior)

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources could be fined $1.5million is found guilty of the charged offence.

The case is scheduled to be mentioned in the ACT Magistrates Court on September 12 for the first time.
An Aussie driver has had his licence suspended and copped a massive fine even though he hasn't driven in the state where the offences occurred for five years and appears to be a different gender to the offending driver.

NSW resident Ross told Ben Fordham on Wednesday his licence has been suspended and he has been fined $7,000 for 14 driving offences in Victoria.

'I haven't been to Victoria in the last five years and I haven't driven a car in Victoria in the last five years,' Ross said.

He said the driving offences were for two cars registered to two Victorian companies.

A photo included with one of the offences sent to Ross shows a long-haired woman driving the car.

Fordham asked Ross if he had 'flowing long hair' and Ross replied, 'I don't, unfortunately. It's short hair.'

Ross said he keeps facing roadblocks trying to clear his name.

He said he has tried to highlight that he is a male and the driver in the photo appears to be female.

A photo included with one of the offences sent to Ross shows what appears to be a long-haired woman driving the car

'Ben, it's a very convoluted process and I think that's what I wanted to highlight to your listeners.

When someone assumes your identity in a fraudulent manner it's no easy feat getting it back.'

He said he has been dealing with various government departments, and keeps getting the run-around.

'I spoke to Revenue NSW, Roads NSW, Vic Roads, Vic Fines, Vic Police, NSW Police, Service NSW... and now I'm back to Vic Fines.'

'It's unbelievable!' Fordham replied.

'It's not you!'

Fordham said he will take up the case on behalf of Ross and said, 'Give me 24 hours.'

'We'll talk this time tomorrow,' he said.

The NSW driver said his licence has been suspended and he has been fined $7,000 for 14 driving offences in Victoria, despite not having driven in the state for five years

In May, a Victorian pensioner was hit with more than $20,000 in fines after he claims a group of people falsely nominated him for their driving penalties.

Kelvin Bellette lost his wallet on a bus in the Mornington Peninsula in 2021 and, after reporting it to police, got it back minus his driver's licence.

Since then the disability pensioner and part-time pizza delivery driver has been hit with 60 driving fines from the area, only four of which are his, he says.

The driving infringements include for speeding, driving without a seatbelt and driving unregistered vehicles in a toll zone.

A very confused Mr Bellette entered into a payment plan to chip away at the massive debt, and only uncovered what appears to have happened with the help of his lawyer.

Under Victorian law knowingly providing false or misleading information in a nomination statement is an offence.

Penalties of $9,000 and potential loss of licence apply in each case for an individual, while a business can be fined $18,000 in each case.
A female PE teacher accused of sexually abusing a 17-year-old male student allegedly told the teenage boy not to tell anyone, a court has heard.

Tayla Lee Brailey, 30, faced Liverpool Local Court in Sydney's south-west on Wednesday after being charged with allegedly sexually touching a person under special care, sexual intercourse with a person under special care and aggravated sexual assault.

Brailey was arrested on Tuesday afternoon at a high school.

Appearing via video link from the Amber Laurel Correctional Centre, Brailey, dressed in grey tracksuit pants and a hoodie, sat quietly and stared at the ground as her lawyer made an application for bail.

Her parents sat in the court, at times becoming emotional, while her husband - who she married in September last year - remained seated in the lobby.

The prosecution, who opposed bail, argued the case against Brailey was 'strong' as she had made admissions to police. They told the court she should be in custody to prevent her interfering with witnesses.

The prosecutor also told the court Brailey had admitted to speaking to two other students, aside from the alleged victim, on social media; that there was CCTV relating to one of the charges, and that evidence of communication was found on her phone as well as the alleged victim's.

The prosecution also made a last-ditch bid for a gag order to ban the publication of her name, the location of the school, or any witnesses, arguing an eight-week interim order was needed to prevent interference with ongoing police investigations.

The application was opposed by media, who argued police had already issued key details in a media statement on Wednesday morning, and the 'cat was already out of the bag'.

Tayla Lee Brailey, 30, faced Liverpool Magistrates Court on Wednesday after being charged with allegedly sexually touching a person under special care and sexual intercourse with a person under special care at a high school

The PE teacher has been granted conditional bail after appearing in court on Wednesday

After a court recess, the prosecution tendered a watered-down application proposing a suppression on the location of the school, however, Magistrate Imad Abdul-Karim dismissed their bid, ruling current laws overseeing reporting were sufficiently restrictive.

Brailey's lawyer Patrick Schmidt conceded the case was strong, but argued any risks could be mitigated by strict bail conditions.

He argued his client had strong ties to her family and community, no history of violence, and the alleged offending was not over a 'prolonged period'.

Granting bail, Magistrate Abdul-Karim ruled Brailey must stay at her parents' house and only leave home if accompanied by one of her parents.

She must also surrender her passport, abide by a curfew, and not go near the school.

During an intermission, Brailey's new husband and her parents could be seen hugging each other as they all cried.

Outside court, her parents refused to answer questions, with Mr Schmidt telling reporters they would be going over the evidence.

The matter is next due before court on October 2.

Police will allege two of the offences - sexual touching and sex without consent - took place in Wollongong during July.

Brailey married her partner in September last year after getting engaged in December, 2021

Brailey had been working for the NSW Department of Education since October, 2017, after completing a bachelor's degree in physical and health education at the University of Wollongong.

The 30-year-old became engaged to her partner in December, 2021 and tied the knot in September last year.

She celebrated her hens party in Bali with friends and family, enjoying time at the popular Finns Beach Club, with several snaps shared to social media.

She also appeared on Channel Seven's quiz show The 1% Club earlier this year.

The education department confirmed the teacher had been suspended without pay and support is being provided to staff and students at the school.
Andrew O'Keefe was arrested on Wednesday afternoon - just hours after his last court appearance.

Earlier in the day he had appeared in Sydney's Downing Centre over allegations he breached a violence protection order put in place on behalf of his former partner.

He walked out of court shortly after 10am in an upbeat mood after his hearing was adjourned, even joking with journalists that he was 'good now'.

But less than two hours later he was back in court after being arrested for allegedly breaching bail conditions.

'About 1pm today (Wednesday 7 August 2024), officers attached to Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command arrested a 52-year-old man at a home in Vaucluse,' police said in a statement.

'It is alleged the man had been breaching his bail conditions.

'He was taken to Waverley Police Station and will appear before Waverley Local Court to have his bail re-determined.'

Andrew O'Keefe was arrested on Wednesday - just hours after appearing in court over allegations he breached an apprehended violence order

On Tuesday, the former host of Deal or No Deal appeared in good spirits outside court after recording a small victory by avoiding a criminal conviction for driving without a licence. But the troubled ex-TV star cut a forlorn figure later that afternoon (pictured)

OKeefe was granted bail on the condition that he reports to Rose Bay Police station three times a week, refrains from drinking alcohol or doing drugs and does not enter Point Piper.

His appearance at Waverley marked the third time the former Deal or No Deal host has appeared in court this week.

On Tuesday, he recorded a small court victory when he avoided a criminal conviction after pleading guilty to driving without a licence.

Representing himself, O'Keefe 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.
The inquests into the deaths of three young girls who were killed in the Southport stabbings are due to open today.

Bebe King, six, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died after a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class at the Hart Space on Monday July 29.

This morning, nine days after the killings, a coroner will formally open the inquests into their deaths at Bootle Town Hall in Merseyside.

Axel Rudakubana, 17, from Lancashire, is set to stand trial next year after being charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Over the last week family, friends and members of the local community have paid their respects to the victims of the attack.

Alice Dasilva Aguilar, aged nine, was one of the victims of the fatal stabbings in Southport on Monday, July 29

Elsie Dot Stancome, aged seven, was also fatally wounded during the attack at a Taylor Swift themed dance class

Bebe King, aged six, was among the three young girls killed in the attack in Southport, Merseyside

People look on at floral tributes and balloons laid in the memory of the three girls in Southport

Hundreds of floral tributes have been left at the scene of the attack in Hart Street and a number of vigils have taken place in the town to remember the girls.

In a statement, Bebe's family said: 'No words can describe the devastation that has hit our family as we try to deal with the loss of our little girl Bebe.'

Alice's family said: 'Keep smiling and dancing like you love to do, our princess, like we said before to you, you're always our princess and no one would change that. Love from Your Hero Daddy and Mummy.'

During a service at St Patrick's Church in Southport on Tuesday afternoon hundreds gathered in memory Alice.

One speaker fought back tears as she said: 'Alice, you are the most beautiful, strongest girl in the world and I hope you know we love you from the bottom of our hearts. Keep smiling and dancing with the girls.'

She read out another message from the family, which said: 'We love you Alice, Your smile is extremely contagious and full of joy. You never fail to uplift everyone's mood.'

The service, led by Father John Heneghan, featured hymns and speeches read in both English and Portuguese.

One of Alice's classmates said: 'You will be in our hearts forever. You are the most kindest person in the world, and we know that you are the strongest girl we have ever met.'

People attend a vigil for the victims of the Southport stabbings on Monday, August 5, a week on from the attack

Axel Rudakubana, pictured centre in a court sketch on Thursday, August 1, has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 attempted murders following the attacks

A member of staff from Alice's school read out messages from her classmates, including one which said: 'Alice, so kind and caring, with a smile so bright, forever in our hearts.'

The congregation gathered for a rendition of You Are My Sunshine outside the church following the ceremony.

Elsie's great-aunt described her as 'lovely, sweet and gentle', BBC News reported.

Jean Stevenson said her grand-niece was 'absolutely the sweetest child you could ever wish to meet'.

Merseyside Police said all three families are being supported by specialist officers.

Five other children and two adults were seriously injured in the attack at around 11.45am on July 29. The children have all since been released from hospital.

Since the incident riots have sprung up around the country, fuelled by misinformation spread online, with around 400 people arrested in connection with the violence.

Around 100 individuals have been charged, according to director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised communities 'will be safe' after a Cobra meeting and said those taking part in the unrest will 'feel the full force of the law'.
Britain is bracing for more anarchy tonight as far-Right thugs use social media and encrypted messaging apps to plan violence across the UK.

Nearly 6,000 police officers have been drafted in after a list of 39 locations where the yobs could wreak havoc - including immigration centres, refugee shelters and lawyers' homes - emerged late last night.

Leaked messages from what appear to be far-Right Telegram channels show those involved threatening the lives of anti-racism campaigners, using sick slurs and exchanging tips on how to 'hood up' as they prepare for fresh demonstrations today.

The chaos which has engulfed Britain's streets since the Southport stabbings last week has brought parts of the country to a halt, with medical appointments cancelled as staff are too scared to go to work.

One immigration law firm named on the hit-list was found to have boarded itself up this morning, with other businesses including pubs and hairdressers following suit as fearful communities brace themselves for a fresh wave of violence and turn to the police to protect them.

It comes as the authorities warn those taking part they could face terrorism charges in relation to the thuggery which has been cheered on by some online personalities, while more than 100 people already face court dates over the riots.

A hit-list of 39 places around England has emerged online ahead of more planned protests tonight

One solicitors in Westcliff-on-Sea in Southend boarded up its doors and windows overnight after being included on a far-Right online hit-list

A far-Right demonstration has been planned to take place outside the firm in Westcliff-on-Sea tonight

An estate agent in North Finchley was also boarded up today before a possible demonstration tonight

A masked rioter runs in front of a bonfire in the middle of the road in Rotherham on Sunday

Towns and cities across England - from Aldershot to Wigan - have been named as targets for demonstrations, with organisers saying 'they won't stop coming until you tell them...'

One vile message - posted to the group's 15,000 members - said: 'The n*****s will try to abuse the unrest to steal. It's in their blood to do so'

Another called for the death of Nick Lowles, the founder of anti-extremism charity Hope Not Hate. Mr Lowles has responded to the threats, calling the man involved 'serious and dangerous'

Another told would-be rioters to wear masks, hoodies and leave their phones at home underneath a photo of a young man in a balaclava and the tagline 'white n radical'

Businesses which are fearful of being caught in the firing line of the far-Right violence have taken preemptive action, with some deciding to close rather than risking becoming collateral damage.

In Westcliff-on-Sea, in Southend, one immigration firm which provides assistance in immigration cases, boarded up its doors and windows in the face of a potential protest outside tonight.

In Walthamstow the Nags Head pub announced it would be closed today due to the potential for unrest after the area was named on the online hit-list as a target.

Hair salons and cafes in Barnsley and Brompton also joined the growing number of businesses refusing to open today.

In Sunderland, Italian restaurant Sambuca said: 'Although we have faith in Northumbria Police we cannot take the risk to be caught up in violent riots like the ones that happened a few days ago.'

In Bristol, which is on the list of potential targets, one lawyer said he had not been this fearful since the heyday of the BNP.

The threat of violence has also hit sporting fixtures, with a women's county cricket match between Essex and Kent in Chelmsford tonight being postponed in light of the planned protests.

The carnage that has raged over the last week has hit medical appointments in some areas, with GPs cancelling evening services in the north east because staff were 'frightened to go to work'.

Paul Williams, a general practitioner based in Stockton, told the BBC that some medical workers do not feel safe in the wake of the riots.

He said: 'I've checked on a few friends over the past few days and they've told me there are parts of the town that they do not feel safe working in at the moment.

'It is totally devastating that some are frightened to go into work because of the fear of intimidation.'

The Nags Head pub in Walthamstow announced it would be closed on Wednesday due to the potential anti-immigration protest

In Sunderland one Italian restaurant revealed it would not be opening on Wednesday as a result of a planned protest as they 'cannot take the risk' of being caught up in the riots

In Brompton one cafe announced it would be closed today due to an 'anti-immigration protest'

A hair salon in Barnsley also joined the growing list of businesses closing due to fears of violence at the protests

Some medical clinics in Middlesbrough and Hartlepool were also cancelled earlier this week in the face of riots that saw police attacked and cars set on fire, although services have since returned to normal.

In Sunderland two Filipino nurses who were on their way to provide emergency cover at a hospital were targeted by far-Right thugs who threw rocks at their taxi.

The Royal College of GPs (RCGP) said yesterday that there had been 'horrific and unacceptable' abuse and violence towards health workers, 'especially those from ethnic minorities'.

It's chairwoman Professor Kamila Hawthorne said: 'We have been shocked and appalled by the civil unrest, criminality and racist attacks we have seen across the UK in recent days.

'We're particularly concerned to hear reports of GPs, members of their teams and other healthcare professionals, especially those from ethnic minorities, being targeted with abuse and violence. This is horrific and completely unacceptable.

'Healthcare professionals dedicate their lives to caring for people in need. They deserve to be able to do their jobs without fear of being attacked or abused and both staff and patients deserve to be able to travel to and from surgeries safely.'

One Bristol-based lawyer claimed this morning that he hadn't been so concerned for his own safety in years.

Aziz Deen told BBC Breakfast: 'I've been advised to work from home because my office is right where the protests begin, I feel threatened and I haven't felt fear like this since the BNP were in full force.

A police dog bits a masked protester in Plymouth during clashes on Monday

'Solicitors, especially those focusing on asylum and immigration should not be targeted in anyway. Policy is not in their hands, policy is in the hands of politicians.

'To go after the people who represent asylum seekers and lawful migrants who come here on work sponsorship and the like, to attack them and make them feel threatened is disgraceful.'

Last night police in the city met with the Bristol Muslim Strategic Leadership Group (BMSLG) to reassure the community that there will be no threat to mosques and their livelihoods by rioters.

Adeela Shafi, of BMSLG, said: 'People are feeling scared, intimidated, worried and are not sure where this is going.'

She added: 'It's the worst it's been for a long time, because of course we've now got social media you're having messages flying around left right and centre.

'[There's] a lot of uncertainty and anxiety, fretfulness about "what should I do - should I close my business, should I keep my kids at home?"

'Trying to reassure these communities that the police and the authorities are doing their best to keep us safe and for people to be able to go about their usual business.

'At the end of the day we live in a democracy and people should be able to protest, however the disorder we've seen is the frightful thing.'

The threat of violence has seen some charities close their doors in a bid to keep people safe.

In the north east of England one refugee charity, which has not been named, said its volunteers had been racially abused in public, while another said people who used its service were 'terrified', the BBC reported.

Nearly 6,000 public order officers have now been mobilised to respond to riots over, police sources have told the BBC. Pictured: Police officers clash with protesters during the Enough is Enough protest in Whitehall, London

A riot police officer is injured during the clashes with far-Right protester outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham

It comes as the wave of anti-immigrant sentiment continues to swirl around on certain online sites, with one group chat on Telegram listing potential targets for today.

Towns and cities across England - from Aldershot to Wigan - were named as places for demonstrations, with organisers saying 'they won't stop coming until you tell them...'.

One message - posted to the group's 15,000 members - said: 'The n*****s will try to abuse the unrest to steal. It's in their blood to do so.'

Another called for the death of Nick Lowles, the founder of anti-extremism charity Hope Not Hate. The horrific call-out said: 'If anyone wants to go down in a blaze of glory, take this man with you.

'Death to Nick Lowles. Any man who takes his life will be a hero to the cause.' One extremely disturbing reply read: 'How can I do it, I'm game.'

Mr Lowles has responded to the threats, calling the man involved 'serious and dangerous'.

And a further post told would-be rioters to wear masks, hoodies and leave their phones at home, underneath a photo of a young man in a balaclava and the tagline: 'White n radical.'

An assistant chief constable has urged people to ignore a list of locations, which has been shared on social media as possible targets for gatherings, saying police will be waiting.

Andy Mariner, of Essex Police, said there is 'disinformation on social media' talking about activity in the county on Wednesday, adding: 'Our message is clear - ignore it.'

'If you're planning on coming here intent on disorder, we will be waiting for you, and you will be arrested,' he said.

'There is information going around on the internet highlighting specific locations around the country and some of those details of locations are just plain false, including here in Essex.'

Nearly 6,000 public order officers have now been mobilised to respond to riots over this week, police sources have told the BBC.

Riot police officers push back anti-migration protesters outside the Holiday Inn Express Hotel which is housing asylum seekers

Police officers face protesters outside the Royal Liver Building in Liverpool on August 3 during the 'Enough is Enough' demonstration

Police officers face a demonstrator at the 'Enough is Enough' protest in Whitehall, London

They have said that the situation is 'manageable' - adding that they hope Britain is now 'through the worst' of the chaos, although they are ready if it escalates again.

Violent riots have already 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 bottles.

More than 400 people have now been arrested and Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson has said the thugs could face terrorism charges as the legal system mobilises to bring offenders to justice.

The CPS chief hit out at those who had used the internet for the 'purposes of incitement and planning', telling the BBC: 'If you're engaged in that activity, then you can be prosecuted for the substantive offence that you have caused (due) to what you've been doing using the internet.'

And in a warning to those acting outside the UK, Mr Parkinson said: 'Some people are abroad. That doesn't mean they're safe.

Anti-migration protesters attempt to enter the Holiday Inn Express Hotel which is housing asylum seekers on August 4

As many as 39 areas including immigration centres and lawyers' homes have made up a 'target list' created by far-Right mobs

Mounted police move in as violence breaks out in Manchester on Saturday, August 3

Riot police are confronted by far-Right activists during an Enough is Enough protest in Sunderland on Friday

Police officers kettle protestors during the 'Enough is Enough' demonstration on Whitehall, outside the entrance to 10 Downing Street in central London

'We have liaison prosecutors spread around the globe who've got local links with the local judiciary and law enforcement, but also the police are also stationed abroad.'

In measures reminiscent of the 2011 London riots, magistrates courts are operating round the clock to process rioters and releasing mugshots of some suspects after they have been charged in an effort to name and shame them.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer - who was himself Director of Public Prosecutions between 2008 and 2013 - said the criminal justice system has shown a 'robust and swift response' in the face of ongoing unrest.

A supposed 'target list' of 39 areas where further riots are planned for Wednesday was yesterday leaked on social media. A police source told The Mirror it was treating the list as a 'credible threat'.

'It's being watched closely and we are ready to respond,' they 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 39 towns and cities could be braced for more violence.

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 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

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.'

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.

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'.

Today - in a show of hope - locals turned out to help chase off youths who had been targeting a local store

As many as thirty stood outside the shop in a show of unity as the threat of far-Right action continued in the Northern Irish city

Police officers protect themselves from bricks thrown by protesters during the 'Enough is Enough' outside the Liver Building in Liverpool on August 3

Riot police are confronted by far-Right activists during an Enough is Enough protest in Sunderland on August 2

Police in riot gear react to a hostile crowd as far-Right activists hold an Enough is Enough protest in Sunderland on August 2

Among the stories of Brits being targeted by far-Right thugs was the owner of a Middle Eastern supermarket in Belfast, whose shop was 'singled out' by young yobs, as a boy and the shop behind him was pelted with eggs.

It allegedly came after the youths tried to steal from the store but were challenged by staff, as the Police Service of Northern Ireland are investigating it as a hate crime.

It came after another supermarket, owned by a Syrian man, was torched after rioters targeted it twice.

Owner Ali Moustafa Wartty said that police had confirmed his had been the only shop targeted, in incidents that date back to the start of the year.

He told the Belfast Telegraph: 'They have been singling us out.

'Police said they cannot do anything  it's very difficult for me, I have a number of businesses in Belfast and I will have to move them.

'I'm very disappointed in Belfast.'

But today - in a show of hope - locals turned out to help chase off the youths and support the local store.

As many as thirty stood outside the shop in a show of unity as the threat of far-Right action continued in the Northern Irish city.
Police are investigating the rape of a British tourist on a beach in Magaluf.

The suspect is an African street seller said to have taken advantage of his victim's state of drunkenness when he found her lying alone in the street in the resort's brash Punta Ballena party strip after she became separated from her friends.

He is said to have picked her up and carried her to the beach where he allegedly raped her before stealing her mobile phone, respected island paper Ultima Hora reported today.

The holidaymaker, whose age is not known and reportedly remembered little about what happened, alerted police hours later.

Police are investigating the rape of a British tourist on a beach in Magaluf

The ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Civil Guard who have been analysing CCTV cameras to try to identify the suspect.

The sex attack happened around 4am on July 24 but has only just been made public.

On Sunday it emerged a British tourist has been assisted by police after claiming she was raped and robbed on a beach in Majorca.

The 30-year-old told detectives she agreed to go to the beach near the island capital Palma with a man she met and ended up agreeing to have sex with before a second man appeared on the scene and forced himself on her in the early hours of last Thursday morning.

They then fled with her belongings according to the holidaymaker.

Local reports said she had accepted an offer of 'free drugs' by the met she met as she strolled around Palma before heading to the beach with him.

She was taken to hospital for a routine medical exploration and was said to have been 'visibly affected' and in a 'state of shock' before flying back to London.

The suspect is an African street seller said to have taken advantage of his victim's state of drunkenness when he found her lying alone in the street in the resort's brash Punta Ballena party strip

In April last year an Italian man was arrested on suspicion of raping a 38-year-old British woman on a beach near Magaluf after luring her from a nearby bar.

The 20-year-old was held after the victim complained he had forced himself on her after a night out in Palmanova which borders the famous party resort.

A spokesman for the Civil Guard in Majorca said at the time: 'The Civil Guard in Calvia has arrested an Italian man aged 20 as the suspected author of a crime of sexual assault on a woman aged 38.

'Last week, the alleged victim and suspect coincided in a late-night bar in Palmanova.

'When the bar closed, the suspect allegedly took advantage of the woman's state of disorientation because of the amount of alcohol she had drunk, to take her to the beach and rape her.

'Officers began an investigation and managed to identify and locate the alleged offender.'

Court officials could not be reached this morning for comment regarding the investigation a judge launched at the time.

A British 18-year-old was allegedly gang-raped at a hotel in Magaluf in the early hours of August 14 last year. Five French nationals and a Swiss man were arrested and remanded in jail pending an ongoing judicial investigation and a further two suspects subsequently held in France on European Arrest Warrants
A senior specialist police officer has outlined his decision to send a team into a likely gun battle with three known killers, to prevent a potential further threat to public safety.

Superintendent Timothy Partridge on Wednesday told a coroner that attempts to negotiate with the trio at a Wieambilla property were met with gunfire on December 12, 2022.

Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow and neighbour Alan Dare had been killed when ambushed and shot by Nathaniel, Gareth and Stacey Train at the property in the Western Downs area, west of Brisbane.

Specialist police moved in to keep the Trains pinned down on their property to isolate their threat.

Then-inspector Partridge - in charge of the specialist police response - knew the danger of the situation and the personalities involved, noting: 'Who shoots police and just sits there and waits?'.

By ordering his team to move towards the property where the Trains were holed up, Supt Partridge told the inquest he understood he was pushing them into a likely confrontation.

He wanted to ensure police could 'pin them down', isolating the public from the threat.

'I remained concerned about our ability to stop them from leaving and I remained concerned about public safety should they decide to leave.'

A police Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) vehicle outside the Trains house at Wieambilla where they ambushed police officers

Gareth, Stacey and Nathaniel Train had laid mantraps to ambush the cops at their compound

The Trains were subsequently killed in a gunfight with police that night.

Stacey, Gareth and Nathaniel Train were all shot dead by SERT officers.

The operation had to consider multiple variables, including that the Trains might have been using the dead officers' radios to monitor communications.

When police tried to negotiate using a loud hailer the Trains fired numerous shots directly into the windscreen of an armoured vehicle.

The operation was not straightforward but had the Trains left the property the job would have progressed to a whole different realm of complexity, Supt Partridge told State Coroner Terry Ryan.

Asked about the risk to his team, Supt Partridge said: 'The (Special Emergency Response Team) response to the Wieambilla incident was the most dangerous operation SERT's ever been involved in, certainly in my experience.'

Superintendent Timothy Partridge said his officers did not hesitate to go in and pin down the Trains despite the high risk

Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow were shot dead at 4.37pm while attempting to locate Nathaniel Train

This was due to the number of offenders, heavy calibre of weapons, amount of ammunition they had access to and the Trains' preparation before police arrived - although officers weren't aware of that until later - plus their intense motivation to kill police.

He said there was a good chance one of his team would be shot, yet no one hesitated.

'The risk to SERT operators was extreme.'

Supt Partridge said his team followed instructions, executing mission priorities exactly and without hesitation or query.

'As their superintendent now I'm incredibly proud of what they did that night - there was a very good chance someone would be shot and killed, and yet not one of them hesitated,' he said.

Two other constables - Keely Brough and Randall Kirk - escaped the initial ambush when their colleagues were killed.

The inquest continues.
Hamas named Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the October 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader yesterday - and it didn't take long for Israel to declare him a dead man.

The selection of Sinwar, a calculated and secretive figure close to Iran, is widely seen as a defiant signal that the group is prepared to keep fighting after the assassination of his predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh.

Gaza has suffered 10 months of hell, with huge swathes of the Strip demolished and almost 40,000 people said to have been killed amid incessant Israeli strikes.

But Sinwar is a ruthless hardliner who has vowed to fight to the bitter end and worked decades to develop Hamas' military and intelligence capabilities.

Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya television of his appointment: '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 we're preparing and intending for him.'

Hamas named Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the October 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader yesterday

After a career in the shadows, spent in Israeli prisons and the internal security apparatus of Hamas, Yahya Sinwar has risen to lead the Islamist movement in the Gaza Strip

Head of the political wing of the Palestinian Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip Yahya Sinwar speaks during a meeting in Gaza City on April 30, 2022

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

Palestinians inspect damaged houses following an Israeli air strike in the west of Deir Al Balah town, Gaza Strip, 06 August 2024

The announcement of Sinwar as the new Hamas leader comes at a particularly volatile moment.

Fears of a wider regional war are higher than ever, with Iran vowing revenge against Israel over Haniyeh's killing and Lebanon's Hezbollah threatening to retaliate over Israel's killing of one of its top commanders in an airstrike in Beirut last week.

Hamas released a brief statement on his appointment that read: '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 [God] have mercy on him.'

But Lebanon's Hezbollah immediately declared its staunch support of Sinwar, highlighting his appointment as a symbol of Israeli failure in Gaza.

'Selecting the brother Yahya Sinwar from the heart of the besieged Gaza Strip  who is present the frontlines with resistance fighters and between the children of his people, under the rubble, blockade, killings and starvation  reasserts that the goals the enemy is seeking by killing leaders have failed,' the group said.

Even before his appointment as Hamas' political chief, Sinwar was said to be the Palestinian group's real decision-maker and the chief architect of October 7 along with late military chief Mohammed Deif, who Israel claims to have eliminated in a strike last month.

While his predecessor Haniyeh was seen as Hamas' leading representative on the international stage and played a direct role in negotiations over a cease-fire in Gaza through US, Qatari and Egyptian negotiators, Sinwar maintained control over the group's day-to-day operations in Gaza, where he has resided ever since October 7.

As a result, he has not been seen in public since the attacks, confined to tunnels and secure compounds underground to avoid the threat of Israeli strikes.

Obsessive, disciplined and dictatorial, the wiry, grey-haired 61-year-old is one of Hamas' most hardline elements and appears hell-bent on continuing the fight against Israel, even as nearly 40,000 of his countrymen and women lie dead with tens of thousands more languishing in famine, disease and homelessness.

Yahya Sinwar, head of Hamas's political wing in Gaza, visits the house of fellow Hamas leader Nizar Awadallah (unseen) in Gaza City on March 10, 2021, upon his re-election as the head of the Islamist movement's de facto leader in the Israeli-blockaded Palestinian enclave

Hamas named Sinwar on August 6 as new political leader, a week after his predecessor Ismail Haniyeh's killing in Tehran which has sent regional tensions soaring

Hamas' top leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated last week

Smoke from Israeli bombardment billows in the background as a woman walks in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on August 5, 2024

Relatives of Palestinians who lost their lives in an Israeli army attack on Bureij refugee camp mourn as bodies are taken from al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital morgue for burial in Deir al-Balah, Gaza on August 06 2024

Sinwar was born in Gaza's Khan Younis refugee camp in 1962, and was first arrested by Israel in 1982 when he was a student at the Islamic University in Gaza.

A founding member of Hamas' student movement, Sinwar was active during the first intifada against Israel, which started in Gaza in 1987. He also murdered several Gazans he suspected of collaborating with Israeli forces.

Unlike Haniyeh, who was effectively a career lawmaker and politician, Sinwar spent most of his career in the shadows, working his way up through the internal security apparatus of Hamas in between stints in Israeli prisons.

There he is said to have learned fluent Hebrew to study his enemy, and he ultimately became one of Hamas' top political leaders, being appointed as the Palestinian group's chief in Gaza in 2017.

Known for his secrecy, Sinwar is an excellent security operator, according to Abu Abdallah, a Hamas member who spent years alongside him in Israeli jails.

'He makes decisions in the utmost calm, but is intractable when it comes to defending the interests of Hamas,' Abdallah said in 2017 after his former co-detainee was elected Hamas's leader in Gaza.

The Hamas chief was added to the US list of the most wanted 'international terrorists' in 2015.

In a show of defiance two years ago, Sinwar ended one of his few public speeches by inviting Israel to assassinate him, proclaiming: 'I will walk back home after this meeting.' He then did so, shaking hands and taking selfies with people in the streets.

But he is also deeply feared for his iron grip in Gaza, where public dissent is suppressed.

He is known as the 'Butcher of Khan Younis' for his brutal approach to Palestinians suspected of collaborating with Israel.

After October 7, Israeli military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Richard Hecht called Sinwar the 'face of evil' and declared him a 'dead man walking'.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz declared on X yesterday: '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.'

Rear Admiral Hagari told Al-Arabiya flatly: 'Yahya Sinwar is a terrorist, who is responsible for the most brutal terrorist attack in history.'

After October 7, Israeli military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Richard Hecht called Sinwar the 'face of evil' and declared him a 'dead man walking'

Tents are in disarray after an Israeli airstrike in Deir al Balah, Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024

Palestinians inspect damaged houses following an Israeli air strike in the west of Deir Al Balah town, Gaza Strip, 06 August 2024

A view of the destruction after Israeli forces attack Deir al Balah, Gaza on August 06, 2024

Hamas' representative in Iran, Khaled Kaddoumi, called Sinwar a 'consensus choice' popular among all factions and involved in the group's decision-making throughout, including in negotiations.

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'.

Meanwhile, Hamas spokesman Osama Hamdan told Al Jazeera that Sinwar would continue the ceasefire 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 Sinwar's selection was a sign the group's 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.'

Meanwhile, former Israeli intelligence official-turned-analyst Avi Melamed reasoned that appointing someone with Sinwar's background would scupper ceasefire talks.

'Hamas's selection of Yahya Sinwar to serve as the next leader of its Politburo, effectively merging its military and political wings will clash with Hamas's aspiration to survive the current clash with Israel.

'In many ways, the separation of a military and political branch allowed space for Hamas to attempt to negotiate a better hostage settlement for itself with Israel and to secure its future after the current war in a future Palestinian government.

'This move would challenge that tactic.'

Injured Palestinians including children and women are brought to Al Aqsa Hospital after Israeli airstrikes on Deir al-Balah, Gaza on August 06, 2024

Palestinians mourn the victims of an Israeli airstrike in Deir al Balah, Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024

Hamas' representative in Iran, Khaled Kaddoumi, called Sinwar a 'consensus choice' popular among all factions and involved in the group's decision-making throughout, including in negotiations

International mediators have been struggling to push through a US-backed outline for a deal, but talks have hit obstacles, particularly over its centerpiece terms - a release of all of Hamas' remaining hostages in return for an end to the war and a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

Hamas has demanded guarantees from mediators that an initial cease-fire will continue until terms for that exchange are worked out.

Israeli leaders have threatened to resume fighting to eliminate Hamas after an initial partial hostage release.

In Washington, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sinwar 'has been and remains the primary decider when it comes to concluding the cease-fire.'

He said Sinwar must '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 - It really is on him.'
A man attacked by a masked mob outside a pub in Birmingham has revealed that he has suffered a torn liver and is 'not interested' in any apologies.

Sean McDonagh, 51, was punched and kicked in front of The Clumsy Swan pub after hundreds of men - many waving Palestinian flags - had gathered on Monday night to keep the Muslim community safe from a rumoured far-Right rally.

When the anticipated protest in Bordesley Green failed to materialise, a large group - some armed and many with their faces covered - started attacking the pub in nearby Yardley, believing that EDL members were drinking in there.

Footage shows the moment Mr McDonagh is assaulted by a man in a black puffer jacket and balaclava outside the pub, which had its doors and windows damaged as the mob tried to break in and terrified customers and staff hid.

It's understood that he had used 'offensive language' and goaded the Asian men as they walked past. The pub has insisted it will bar him for inciting violence.

Those caught up in the chaos criticised police yesterday for failing to intercept the gang and then not responding quickly enough to the attack, despite one of the city's biggest police stations sitting just down the road.

As police officers and communities brace for more unrest today, it comes as:

Sean McDonagh (pictured), 51, has revealed that he has suffered a torn liver and is 'not interested' in any apologies. But the pub landlord has also said he will be barred for goading the protesters

A gang waving Palestinian flags stormed The Clumsy Swan after Mr McDonagh appeared to goad them

A video shared online showed a large crowd of men, many of who wore balaclavas or face coverings, attacking him at The Clumsy Swan

Pubgoers screamed as protesters faced off against the punter outside - before he was kicked to the floor on Monday

Sean McDonagh was knocked to the floor and kicked in the head on Monday

Speaking to The Telegraph, Mr McDonagh claimed he had 'walked into' the protest after leaving the pub and had no idea there was a march going on.

After he was punched, he fell to the floor and was kicked a number of times.

Asked whether he was recovering, he said: 'Yeah, I'm good. I just came out of the pub... and that was it, walked into them. I didn't even know there was a march going on. I've been back to hospital with a lacerated liver.

'I don't know what it was all about you know. They called me a few things. 'I don't even know what's going on here', that's all I said.'

Members of the Muslim community apologised for the attack on Monday, saying ''it was not a true reflection of who we are as a community'.

But Mr McDonagh said 'I'm not interested' when asked if he had a response for the apology.

Linda Fogarty, who is the assistant manager of the pub, barricaded pubgoers inside after hearing the angry mob was making its way towards the pub.

The 60-year-old said: 'I got everyone in, got the chairs in, got the customers in, staff in, locked the doors ... And then it just escalated from there, they tried to kick the door in, smashed all the windows. It wasn't great.'

She also told Sky News she wants to ban the punter who was attacked after provoking the group with 'offensive language' and inciting violence. She said Muslims have since been supportive and offered to pay for damages.

'After the man came outside and he got attacked, the majority of the people that were on the march put a stop to that, protected him, kept him safe,' she said.

'The ones that were doing the fighting were trying to boot the door in. They cracked the glass in, damaged the handle to the doors.'

She said those on the march were 'more sensible than not', adding: 'The majority of people that were on the march last night stayed behind, supported us, they offered to pay for damages and everything.

'They couldn't apologise enough.'

Crowds gathered at Bordesley Green McDonald's after rumours shared on social media of a possible far-right protest in the area on Monday

Masked men could be seen gathered around the McDonalds at Bordesley Green on Monday

A masked man attends the gathering in Bordesley Green on Monday

The incident came amid claims of 'two-tier policing', with suggestions that far-Right protests have been treated more firmly by police.

The claim has been pushed by Nigel Farage and Elon Musk, the world's richest man, on his social media site X.

West Midlands Police said it recognised 'there were some concerns' with its response and said it was investigating five separate incidents including an assault on a man in his 50s.

A 46-year-old man was separately arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon.

In a statement, the force said it was 'clear' there were individuals at the initial gathering who had face coverings and were acting 'in an antisocial manner', adding it would have been 'extremely intimidating for people'. But the force added: 'On the whole we've received positive feedback on how we dealt with the gathering.'

Their view conflicts with accounts of those on the ground. One Muslim community leader accused police of ignoring his tip-off.

At the start of the unrest in Bordesley Green, Sky News were forced to cut short a live broadcast after reporter Becky Johnson was surrounded by a masked group on bikes who yelled expletives and made gun signs at the camera.

A man later attacked their van with a knife. LBC reporter Fraser Knight described being chased away from the scene by a group of Muslim men who appeared armed and said he was 'struck' by 'the lack of police presence'.

Trouble flared after the far-Right failed to materialise, with some armed thugs in the group instead attacking cars, chasing journalists and later descending on a pub in the Yardley area on Monday

One man set off a flare at the Bordesley Green McDonalds on Monday

West Midlands Police said it was 'clear' there were individuals at the initial gathering who had face coverings and were acting 'in an antisocial manner'

Crowds gather at Bordesley Green McDonald's, with some filming on their phones on Monday

The masked group who targeted the pub walked nearly two miles from the scene of the initial gathering, with footage showing them blocking traffic. But there is no evidence to suggest the police tried to stop them.

The gang approached the pub at about 8.30pm and one of their number was filming. 'We're showing dominance, asserting dominance over everybody,' he said in the footage, which has been shared widely on social media.

Naveed Sadiq, a respected figure in the local Muslim community, rushed to the scene and managed to halt the attack.

He had just come from a meeting hosted by police in Bordesley Green to provide reassurance to the Muslim community  and phoned the officer he met there to warn him of the violence. He was assured 'nothing is happening'.

Mr Sadiq said: 'We were told that there isn't a two-tier policing system. I don't want to break my relationship with the police, but I did give them a heads-up and they should have been here.'

A 24-year-old pub regular, who asked not to be named, stumbled across the attack on Monday night.

He said: 'As we've seen from the marches that have been going on around the country, they've been police-escorted. Now we have a march that has gone from Bordesley Green to here and they've not been followed. Literally two minutes away is the biggest police station in the area.'

Several Muslim community members went to the pub to show support yesterday. A local mosque, Mr Sadiq and others have offered to pay for the damage.
Vegan activist Tash Peterson has paid a heavy price for storming a restaurant, sparking a cheeky response from the eatery.

The controversial animal rights protester pleaded guilty to two trespass and disorderly behaviour charges for two separate stand-offs at Fyre restaurant in the northern Perth suburb of Connolly last year.

Peterson was banned from leaving Western Australia due a six-month community-based order issued by a magistrate in Joondalup Magistrates Court last week.

She was also hit with thousands of dollars in fines.

Fyre didn't hide its delight when the restaurant weighed in on the outcome of the case on its Facebook page.

'So Peterson pleaded guilty to the offences she committed at our venue over a year ago,' the post read.

'She received a six-month community order of 30 hours 's*** picking', $2,300 in fines and costs on top. Thanks WA Police, we at Fyre love you all.'

Peterson also took to social media, TikTok in her case, to tell her supporters that 'basically, I'm in big s*** if I commit another criminal offence.'

Vegan activist Tash Peterson (pictured being removed from Fyre restaurant last year) has been handed a harsh punishment over the incident

Tash Peterson took to TikTok to tell her supporters that 'basically, I'm in big s*** if I commit another criminal offence'

The 2023 incidents came after owner John Mountain banned vegans from Fyre 'due to mental health reasons', after a negative review from a non-meat eater.

This led to Peterson and her supporters storming into the restaurant on June 30 last year, and being physically removed by Mr Mountain and his staff.

That protest resulted in criminal allegations of trespass, disorderly behaviour in public and remaining in the vicinity of a licensed premises.

That didn't put her off returning the following Saturday, though, where she played footage of animals being slaughtered and the sound of pigs screeching.

Under the six month community-based order issued by the magistrate, she must 'not leave (WA) without the prior permission of the Community Corrections Centre'.

Mr Mountain said that the incidents caused him and his staff a lot of distress.

'I don't want to come across as the whinging Pom but these people have nothing better to do and we've had a couple of mental vegans,' the British expat said.

'It does damage the business, for all the hard work we do.'

Vegan activist Tash Peterson (pictured) has been banned from leaving WA for six months

Her convictions were welcomed by some commenters on her TikTok account.

'That's the end of Tash Peterson. Well done everyone,' one wrote

Ms Peterson hit back, writing: 'Cute that you think that.'

Others had suggestions for where she should be made to do her community services, with one saying it should be 'at an abattoir'.

Ms Peterson is no stranger to controversy.

Her antics have led police and policymakers in WA to describe her as 'Australia's biggest pest'.

Ms Peterson has copped numerous fines for her semi-nude demonstrations and protests in designer stores, restaurants and supermarkets.

She once worked as a pool lifeguard before sharing racy content to OnlyFans where she reportedly made as much as $40,000 per month.
Part of a hotel has collapsed in western Germany, killing two people and leaving eight others trapped in the rubble.

According to police, those who were killed are believed to be a man and a woman.

A floor in the Reichsschenke Zum Ritter Gotz hotel in Kroev, a winemaking town on the Mosselle River some 110 kilometres (68 miles) west of Frankfurt, collapsed at around 11:00 pm on Tuesday, police said in a statement.

Of the 14 people inside at the time, five managed to get out unhurt.

By early Wednesday morning, emergency services had established that one person was dead, but hadnt yet been able to recover the body. At that point, eight people were believed still to be in the building, some of them seriously injured.

Debris are seen after the collapse of a hotel in Kroev, Germany Wednesday

A firefighter carries a woman after a hotel partially collapsed overnight near the banks of Germany's river Moselle in Kroev, Germany, August 7, 2024.

A firefighter and medical staff help a woman after a hotel partially collapsed overnight near the banks of Germany's river Moselle

A young couple and their two-year-old child from Urk, Netherlands, were trapped under the rubble, Dutch News reported.

More than two hours later, authorities said they had rescued two women, a man and a child, with the Dutch woman and her toddler being among them.

Her husband, however, is still trapped under the wreckage, according to Dutch outlet Het Urkerland.

Emergency services are having trouble reaching people trapped in the debris as they fear more of the building could collapse. They are communicating with those still under the rubble.

Authorities said that one of the people trapped was a child, who was physically unhurt and in contact with emergency workers.

Footage and images showed the building's gable roof slanted backwards and parts of the ground floor crushed as emergency services tended to the victims.

Kroev is on a picturesque section of the Mosselle near the larger resort town of Traben-Trarbach. It has about 2,200 inhabitants. The Moselle region attracts tourists for its picturesque towns and vineyards on steep river banks

Image of the hotel before its collapse on Tuesday night, which left one person dead and eight trapped in the rubble

Emergency services at the scene of the collapse, in Korev, a winemaking town on the Mosselle river, Western Germany

A crane is set up after a hotel partially collapsed overnight

A fire department vehicle stands in front of a collapsed hotel in Kroev, Germany

Firefighters, medical and THW (Federal Agency for Technical Relief) staff wait outside, after a hotel partially collapsed overnight

dog is rescued from the partially collapsed hotel in Kroev

A firefighter carries a woman after a hotel partially collapsed overnight

Firefighters and medical staff work at the scene after a hotel partially collapsed overnight near the banks of Germany's river Moselle in Kroev, Germany

By early Wednesday morning, police said emergency services had established contact with the eight people trapped

In one clip, a woman is carried out of the building by an emergency worker, while another snippet shows a toddler being taken out of the damaged hotel building.

According to regional broadcaster SWR, witnesses reported hearing a bang and seeing a large cloud of dust at the time of the collapse.

Authorities evacuated 31 people from the area immediately around the damaged building. There was no immediate word on what caused the collapse.

Police said it was 'an extremely demanding deployment, because emergency personnel can only enter the building with the greatest caution'.

They said that some 250 emergency workers, including drone specialists, were at the scene, as well as rescue dogs.

Emergency services outside the partially collapsed hotel in Western Germany

According to police, some 250 emergency workers, including drone specialists, were at the scene, as well as rescue dogs

Reasons for the collapse are not known

According to regional broadcaster SWR, witnesses reported hearing a bang and seeing a large cloud of dust at the time of the collapse

Kroev is on a picturesque section of the Mosel near the larger resort town of Traben-Trarbach. It has about 2,200 inhabitants.

The Moselle region attracts tourists for its picturesque towns and vineyards on steep river banks.

This comes after four people were killed and dozens injured back in May after a building collapsed at a beach resort in Playa de Palma, Majorca.

A terrace of a two-storey building had collapsed through 'to the basement' of the building, leaving only the facade standing.

The bar was popular with British and German tourists.

It was later revealed that the newly built terrace was illegally built. The Medusa Beach Club's owners had unveiled the extension just days before the collapse.

This is a breaking story, more to follow.
Vladimir Putin is desperately deploying troops to Russia's border amid fears that a significant incursion by Ukrainian forces could see them seize or cut off a key nuclear power plant.

Moscow said it had sent reserves to help repel hundreds of Ukrainian fighters backed by tanks, in a ground incursion that is shaping up to be one the largest into Russian territory during the war.

On Tuesday, the Russian army and security agencies were wrong footed by a breakthrough on the Kursk region frontier, which had been guarded by lightly armed conscripts, several of whom were captured.

Kursk regional governor Alexei Smirnov said 'several thousand' people had been evacuated from the border region and all mass gatherings had been cancelled.

Heavy clashes are expected today as forces from Ukraine - possibly both army and anti-Putin Russian partisans - seek to press deeper into the region.

Damage in the town of Sudzha on August 6 following Ukrainian shelling, according to Smirnov

There were a flurry of warnings today that Ukraine may intend the audacious capture or encirclement of Kursk Nuclear Power Plant (NPP)

Ukraine launched the incursion across the Russian border around 5am GMT on Tuesday

Official Russian social media accounts said up to 300 Ukrainian fighters, backed by tanks, had attacked border units in two localities in Kursk - Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya.

Moscow lost two Ka-52 helicopters - one suspected downed by an FPV drone was shown burning, as Moscow, which daily bombards Ukrainian civilians and territory, raged against a 'terrorist attack'.

Overnight, the region was hit with waves of drone attacks, according to the local governor, with defence systems destroying at least five.

Five people were killed and 28 wounded, and the surprise incursion has reportedly forced Russian authorities to evacuate several border settlements.

There were a flurry of warnings today that Ukraine's intention behind the unprecedented thrust into Russian territory may be to capture or encircle the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant (NPP).

Such an audacious plan could then use it as a bargaining chip to negotiate with Putin about ceding control of Zaporizhzhia NPP - held by Russia since the start of the war.

Videos reportedly showed the overnight shelling of Kurchatov, the town around the Kursk atomic plant, some 31 miles in a straight line - but further by road - from the Ukrainian incursion across the border.

'Nuclear blackmail,' posted Dmitry Rogozin, a senator who was previously Putin's deputy prime minister and head of the Russian Space Agency.

'This is something that all the world's media will definitely trumpet about. That's what they [the Ukrainians] are counting on.'

He demanded a ruthless response to wipe out Ukrainians crossing the frontier.

Smoke billows on the Kursk border region as Russia claimed Ukraine had launched an assault

War correspondent Yuri Kotenok posted: 'The nuclear power plant in Kurchatov is an object that has long been the object of desire of the Ukrainian military elite and their curators.'

Despite the warnings, in posts on the Telegram messaging app, the acting governor of the southwestern Russian region, insisted the situation was 'controllable.'

Ukraine launched several waves of drones, prompting at least a dozen air raid alerts over the past 24 hours, Alexei Smirnov's posts stated.

Five people were killed, including two ambulance crew, with at least 20 wounded, among them six children, in the fighting that erupted on Tuesday, Russian officials said.

Ukraine made no official comment, though there was evidence of some military action from its side of the border. Both Kyiv and Moscow say their attacks do not target civilians.

The Ukrainian army 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.

The breakthrough into Russia highlighted how Putin had lied to his people over not sending raw conscripts to the war zone and border areas.

Damage to buildings allegedly caused during a Ukrainian attack over the border on Tuesday

Social media footage shows a truck on fire after the Kursk region border incursion on Tuesday

Several Russian conscripts were shown on videos after they were captured at border points.

One, Danil Kolesnikov, 22, a private, served in regiment 488, was held guarding the border at Sudzha.

'I was taken prisoner by Ukrainian troops at the border crossing,' he said, indicating that he - like others - had been abandoned by their commanders.

Asked by his Ukrainian captors his feelings about Putin and his war, the conscript said: 'Well, of course war is always a ****ed up ******* thing. It's always bad.

'Especially, in my own Belgorod region so many corpses, all the s*** it's not supported.'

Another Maxim Emelyanin, 21, from the distant Komi republic in the far north of Russia, said the conscripts had demanded to be taken away from the border point in line with Putin's promise on the deployment of conscripts.

Social media footage shows damage to a residential building in the region

But they were left there. Asked if they were abandoned, he said: 'It goes like this.'

He was asked: 'How do you feel about your superiors?' He replied: 'Negative.'

'How do you feel about the war in Ukraine?' to which he said: 'I have a negative attitude towards the war.

'And Putin?' they asked. 'Putin? I don't know.'

He said he did 'not exactly' support what his president was doing, adding: 'I had been avoiding the army altogether [but was conscripted in the end].'

Another theory is that Ukraine may seek to disrupt Russian gas exports via Kursk region.

Reports indicated that Ukraine had occupied the settlements of Daryevka, Gogolevka, and Sverdlikovo.

A heavily damaged building in the region, which borders Ukraine, after Tuesday's incursion

Pictures shared after yesterday's border breakthrough show damage to buildings

The border town of Sudzha was badly blitzed with most residents evacuating.

Administrative and residential buildings and the infectious diseases department of the city hospital were damaged, reported Izvestia.

Previously, forces describing themselves as voluntary paramilitaries fighting on Ukraine's side inflicted minimal damage in a major incursion into parts of Belgorod and Kursk region this year, but the purpose of the raids remains unclear.

On Tuesday, Ukraine's general staff made no mention of any Ukrainian offensive operation inside Russia.

Throughout the more than two years of war, Ukraine's efforts have largely been focused on fighting back Russian forces who control nearly a fifth of its territory 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.
The devastated husband of a female PE teacher accused of sexually abusing a male student sobbed as he waited outside his wife's court case.

Tayla Lee Brailey, 30, appeared in Liverpool Local Court on Thursday, charged with sexually abusing a 17-year-old boy she taught at a high school in Sydney's southwest.

Police will allege two of the offences , sexual touching and aggravated sexual assault, took place in West Wollongong, her home suburb, in early to mid July.

She also allegedly raped the minor on July 26 in the same suburb as the school.

As Brailey appeared in court via video link from Amber Laurel Correctional Centre, dressed in grey track pants and a hoodie, her parents sat side-by-side in court, an arm wrapped around each other's waist.

Noticeably distraught but trying to remain composed, the couple were at times overcome by emotion, breaking down in tears when Magistrate Imad Abdul-Karim noted the alleged offences carried prison sentences.

Brailey and her father also let out a gasp when it was revealed during the prosecution's attempt to impose a suppression order that the media had already widely reported the case.

Aside from occasional emotional outbursts, Brailey remained quiet throughout the hearing, resting her head on her hands and looking down at the floor.

Tayla Lee Brailey, 30, faced Liverpool Magistrates Court on Wednesday after being charged with allegedly sexually touching a person under special care and sexual intercourse with a person under special care at a high school

Her husband, Isaiah, who she married just 11 months ago, remained in the lobby during the proceedings

Outside court, Brailey's parents did not answer reporters' questions as they left to collect their daughter from jail after Magistrate Abdul-Karim granted bail

At one point, while details about the allegations were being read to the court, she trembled in her seat.

Her husband, Isaiah, who she married just 11 months ago, remained in the lobby during the proceedings.

He and her parents maintained a united front, holding each other and crying during court breaks.

Police prosecutor Sgt Hillery told Magistrate Abdul-Karim said there was a strong case against Brailey.

'Spontaneous admissions were made by the defendant when spoken to by police,' Sgt Hillery said.

'The defendant, when spoken to, allowed access to her mobile phone and through that the prosecution and detectives obtained further material which assists the case.

Brailey's husband is pictured outside court

'She (allegedly) acknowledges her wrongdoing, that it is inappropriate and continued down that path, so far as informing the complainant not to speak to anyone about what was happening prior to the alleged incident occurring.

Outside court, Brailey's parents did not answer reporters' questions as they left to collect their daughter from jail after Magistrate Abdul-Karim granted bail.

Magistrate Abdul-Karim ruled Brailey must stay at her parents' house and only leave home if accompanied by one of her parents.

She must also surrender her passport, abide by a curfew, and not go near the school.

Similarly, Brailey's husband did not comment when he separately left the court a short time later.

Brailey had been working for the NSW Department of Education since October, 2017, after completing a bachelor's degree in physical and health education at the University of Wollongong.

Brailey married her partner in September last year after getting engaged in December, 2021

Brailey is pictured after being released on bail

The 30-year-old became engaged to her partner in December, 2021 and tied the knot in September last year.

She celebrated her hens party in Bali with friends and family, enjoying time at the popular Finns Beach Club, with several snaps shared to social media.

She also appeared on Channel Seven's quiz show The 1% Club earlier this year.

The education department confirmed the teacher had been suspended without pay and support is being provided to staff and students at the school.

The matter is next due before court on October 2.
Artist Vincent Fantauzzo is facing more than $7,200 in fines, damages and court costs after his 'Staffordshire Terrier type' dog attacked another pup during an early morning walk.

Fantauzzo is one of Australia's best-known artists who famously painted portraits of some of the country's biggest icons - including actors Heath Ledger and Brandon Walters.

He also frequently paints his actress wife Asher Keddie, best known for her role in Offspring.

However, after the Magistrates' Court of Victoria found him liable for the brutal dog attack, Fantauzzo admitted he hasn't sold a single painting this year.

The artist's legal struggles began when his dog Sandro, accompanied by Fantauzzo, lashed out at another dog,called Banjo, on the corner of Inkerman Street and St Kilda Road in St Kilda, Melbourne, at 6.40am on December 8, 2022.

The court heard Sandro 'bit the leg of the other dog but did not hold on to it', causing damage to Banjo's leg, The Age reported.

Fantauzzo defended himself at an earlier hearing and contested the charges but was ultimately found to be liable for a dog attack causing serious injury and contravening an order to control a dog.

The artist was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, $2,001.93 in compensation to Banjo's owner and $4,206 of court costs.

A court has heard that artist Vincent Fantauzzo (pictured with his wife Asher Keddie) hasn't sold a painting this year

Fantauzzo's dog Sandro (pictured) attacked another dog in 2022, resulting in a court ordered payment of more than $7,200

Magistrate Mark Stratmann questioned if Fantauzzo would be able to pay the court after the court heard that he paid $1,800 per week in rent, private school tuition for his two children, a nanny and rent for an art studio.

'Self-employed, I am an artist, I have an exhibition or two each year. My next exhibition is in November,' Fantauzzo said.

'I never really know what my financial condition will be until I have my exhibition.'

Magistrate Stratmann, who was not aware of Fantauzzo's celebrity marriage, questioned if he had a partner who could support him while he pays the fees.

Fantauzzo (pictured with Keddie) was ordered to pay the outstanding money within 60 days

'My wife also works, she is an actress. So her work's kind of similar to mine, you know, job by job,' Fantauzzo replied.

'Each year is very different. So one year I could do well. This year I haven't sold any paintings yet.'

A lawyer for Port Phillip Council told the court that it was important to send a message to dog owners that they need to better control their pets.

Fantauzzo was fined $1000 without conviction on top of $2001.93 compensation to Banjos owner and $4206 in court costs.

Fantauzzo was ordered to pay the $7207.93 within 60 days.

If he is unable to pay the amount before that deadline, he will be ordered to pay in installments.
Nine members of the same family, including six children, are dead after they were involved in a horror crash as they travelled back from a relative's 80th birthday on Monday night.

The youngest of the tragic victims was just one year old, while the oldest was 56.

Emergency services in Palm Beach County, Florida, received calls about an SUV that had fallen into a canal near the town of Belle Glade at around 7:30pm.

First responders found the SUV, a 2023 Ford Explorer, upside down with only its wheels above the water. Sources told local media that the canal is around 6ft deep, and the surrounding soil was particularly muddy on Monday due to recent heavy rains.

Four of the 10 people in the car at the time were pronounced dead at the scene, while the other six were taken to hospital. Five of these people later died in hospital, while one remains in a serious condition.

The nine people who died were identified as 5-year-old Kamdien Edwards, 21-year-old Anyia Monique Lee Tucker, 56-year-old Pamela Wiggins, who was driving the vehicle at the time, 1-year-old Naleia Tucker, 5-year-old Yasire Smith, 8-year-old Imani Andrea Ajani Hall, 14-year-old Michael Anthony Hall Jr., 30-year-old Leiana Alyse Hall and three-year-old Ziare Mack.

The lone survivor was reported to be 26-year-old Jorden Hall.

Tragedy has struck Florida after a horror crash left nine members of the same family, including six children, (Pictured) dead

First responders (pictured) found the SUV, a 2023 Ford Explorer, upside down with only its wheels above the water

Sources told local media that the canal (pictured) is around 6ft deep, and the surrounding soil was particularly muddy on Monday due to recent heavy rains

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Capt. Tom Reyes said: 'Ive been with the department for 20 years, and this is one of the most difficult scenes Ive been on.'

All ten of them were in Florida for an elderly relative's 80th birthday, and were making their way to an airport to fly back to their home in Connecticut.

Serious questions have been raised over whether this tragedy could've been preventable.

According to an official crash report obtained by local media, no one in the car was using 'safety equipment', understood to be seat belts, as it travelled down the road.

For unknown reasons, Wiggins failed to go round the sharp narrow curve that was so tight that a car and a truck would've struggled to fit at the same time. The report did not say how fast that car was travelling when it crashed.

On top of this, drivers of Ford Explorers are implored to never carry more than seven people in their vehicles at a time.

But family members have said that the car, a rental, was suffering issues at the time.

Anntianette Edwards, whose only son Kamdien Edwards tragically perished, said that while the family had notified the rental company of the unspecified issues, they did not want to drive two hours to get a new vehicle, as they were going back to Connecticut that day.

Family members have since shared their horror at losing so many of their loved ones at once.

Edwards said: 'I knew something was wrong, called the airplane, they said they didn't get on their flight.

'It's like a bad dream.'

She revealed her son was just about to start school, adding: 'He was cheerful, funny, not scared of nothing. A daredevil. He was just a happy baby we gave him everything he wanted.'

Antoine Wright, a cousin of the victims, added: 'My family been through a lot and I just need everyone to just pray.

'My family is going to need a lot of strength and prayer and support in this situation.'

A GoFundMe page has since been set up to cover the funeral costs of the nine people who tragically died.

At time of publication, just under $15,000 has been raised of the $100,000 target.
Tommy Robinson has been slammed as 'utterly despicable' by a police and crime commissioner for wrongly stating that two Somalian migrants had 'murdered' a British grandmother walking her dog.

The far-right activist who has been widely condemned for his inflammatory social media posts stoking race riots across the UK made his incendiary false claim about the murder while on holiday in Cyprus.

He referenced the murder of mother-of-six Anita Rose, 57, who died on July 28, four days after being found with serious head, brain and face injuries on a track near her home in Brantham, Suffolk.

Police have so far separately arrested a 45-year-old man from Ipswich and a man in his 20s from Brantham on suspicion of her murder, but have released both on police bail, pending further inquiries.

An unfounded and false rumour began to be spread on X, formerly Twitter, earlier this month that the two suspects were Somalian refugees.

Detectives continued to probe the death of Anita Rose, 57, was allegedly murdered after leaving her home in Brantham, Suffolk last month

Among those posting on social media about the case was Mr Robinson (pictured outside Westminster Magistrates' Court), the prominent far-right activist and English Defence League founder

Robinson, 41, repeated the lie in an online video on his X account which was posted at 7.45am on Sunday and has so far been seen by 7.3million people.

Filming himself on the patio outside his room at his luxury five-star hotel on the outskirts of the party resort Ayia Napa, he mentioned the murder while blaming the Government for 'mobs of armed Muslims in every city across the country'.

He ranted: 'As the media and politicians try and blame me for currently what is happening in our country, it was not my policies that allowed two Somalians into the country who murdered a British grandmother last week in Ipswich.

'That wasn't my policies. It is not my policies that opened our borders to Pakistani immigration and made our police stand on whilst a generation of our daughters were raped.

'I didn't do that that. That's your failures, your policies. What you are witnessing now on the street is years of resentment built up by you trying to hide the problems. I didn't allow terrorists and jihadists to come in. I didn't fill up the hotels.'

But Suffolk's Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore who was voted in as a Conservative, furiously denounced Robinson's false information.

He said in a statement: 'The investigation into this murder is continuing and spreading such false information on social media is utterly despicable. I can categorically state the comments are wrong.

'To behave in such an irresponsible manner bearing in mind the current disorder and violence elsewhere in the country beggars belief and everything will be done to find the perpetrators and punish them accordingly.

He added: 'I have personally raised this matter with the Home Secretary (Yvette Cooper) and am pleased to say she is fully supportive of this approach.

'Lastly, do such people have any sense of humanity bearing in mind what the friends and relatives of the deceased are going through at such a difficult time for them?

CCTV images issued by Suffolk Police of Anita Rose before she was found in Brantham

Police officers search fields in Brantham, Suffolk, on July 29, near where Anita Rose was found

'This is the time for us to pull together and support each other in Suffolk and not let anything divide us.'

Suffolk Police added in a statement: 'As previously stated in response to misinformation being circulated online, Suffolk police can confirm that the arrested and since bailed individuals in connection with the Anita Rose case are not Somali migrants.

'We typically wouldn't comment on a nationality and the only reason we have in this instance is because it's a dangerous piece of misinformation, which we will continue to dispel.'

Former English Defence League founder and leader Robinson apparently picked up the false line about Somalian suspects from a far right group called Europe Invasion which posted the lie last Friday.

The group's post on its X account, so far seen by 2.5 million people, carried a picture of Ms Rose with a message saying: 'This woman's name is Anita Rose. Anita was a mother of 6 children and also a grandmother. She loved dogs and animals very much. She always helped shelters.

'One day she went out to walk her dog in Ipswich. Two Somali immigrants who followed her attacked Anita to rob her and she suffered a serious blow to her head. Anita lost her fight for life. She is no longer with us.'

Robinson doubled down on his false narrative by referencing the murder again in a video interview with leading US conspiracy theorist Alex Jones on his InfoWars channel.

Speaking from inside his hotel room, he stated: 'Last week a British pensioner female was beaten to death by two Somali migrants.'

On Saturday at 3.50pm, he also 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.

Anita Rose took her dog for a walk at about 5am on July 28 and was found at about 6.25am

Two hours later, Staffordshire Police confirmed the information was false and that those injured were hit by something thrown by their own side.

The murder of Ms Rose was also wrongly referenced by right-wing actor Laurence Fox when he posted a list of acts of violence he allegedly committed by immigrants under the caption: 'Anyone else had enough?'

Ms Rose left her home in Brantham with her springer spaniel called Bruce at 5.30am on July 24 and trekked three miles before being allegedly attacked.

Her two-year-old dog was unharmed beside her when a cyclist found her seriously injured on a track between a sewage works and the main Ipswich to London railway line.

She was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, where she remained in a critical condition until she died four days later.

Ms Rose's iPhone and a pink zip up jacket which she was filmed wearing by a doorbell camera soon after she left her home were missing when she was found.

Police have since recovered her iPhone, but her jacket remains missing.

As well as the two men arrested on suspicion of her murder, a 37-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods and was released on police bail after being quizzed.

MailOnline exclusive revealed on Sunday that Robinson was fanning the flames of riots across the UK from the safety of his sun lounger at his hotel, sending out a constant stream of posts to his 900,000 followers on Twitter.

It is believed that he may now have left Cyprus, but his current whereabouts are not known

Mobs of far right thugs have been chanting his name in recent days while attacking migrant hostels and police.
The six-year-old was among three little girls killed in the attack on July 29

The heartbroken grandfather of a six-year-old girl killed in the Southport stabbings has revealed how the family had been due to celebrate a wedding the next day.

Michael Weston King, 62, told of his anguish over the death of Bebe King, who was among three girls killed at a Taylor Swift dance class in Southport last week.

In a post to fans on Instagram, Mr Weston King shared that the news of the little girl's cruel death came as family members had gathered for his daughter's wedding, which was due to take place the following day.

The musician, father to Bebe's dad Ben King, 41, posted: 'As many but not all know, I am taking this moment to confirm that my granddaughter Bebe (the younger daughter of my eldest son) was one of the three girls killed in Southport last Monday.

'An act of such consequence, yet so pointless, is impossible to comprehend. We are bereft but coming together as a family, which was already very close-knit, to support each other and in particular my son, daughter-in-law and my other granddaughter.

Bebe King's grandfather, Michael Weston King, 62, (pictured with Bebe) released a touching tribute to his granddaughter revealing the family

The heartbroken grandparent revealed the family were due to celebrate his daughter's wedding the following day after the harrowing Southport stabbings

'Bebe was such a sweet, happy little thing. Loving life, in particular music and theatre, and enjoying the deep affection in which she was held by her family and friends.

'Monday's events were all the more poignant as we were gathering for my eldest daughter's wedding, which should have taken place the following day - a joyous, beautiful family occasion.

'The shift from joy to despair in a matter of moments is profound.'

Bebe, Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, were also killed in the harrowing knife attack on Monday, July 29, at the Hart Space centre in the coastal town.

Eight children and two adults were also seriously injured in the attack, including dance teacher Leanne Lucas, 35. All of the casualties have now been discharged.

Mr Weston King's son and daughter-in-law Lauren yesterday posted sentimental images of little Bebe, who attended Marshside Primary School, on Facebook as friends offered their condolences and support.

Mr Weston King told how the family had been comforted by messages of support from across the country and praised police for their 'great dignity'.

He added: 'I would though like to thank everyone who has sent messages. To feel the love and support of so many dear and close friends has been vital. They have, been, and continue to be a great comfort.

'Bebe was such a sweet, happy little thing. Loving life, in particular music and theatre, and enjoying the deep affection in which she was held by her family and friends,' Mr Weston King wrote (pictured: Bebe with her aunt)

Mr Weston King shared that his family had been comforted by messages of support from across the country and praised police for their 'great dignity'

'Also to so many from my musical family, the great number of people that I know through music, either fellow artists, players or supporters.

The musician, who formed the British country music duo My Darling Clementine and was formerly the leader of the alternative country band The Good Sons, referred to ugly riots which have broken out across the country in the wake of the attack.

He wrote: 'I won't comment on what has happened around the country in the aftermath, other than to say peace, love and understanding is what we need, and it is all we need. Nothing else.

'And to any of you who have been blessed with grand kids, I simply say, savour every minute.'

Mr Weston King posted a string of heart-warming pictures with his granddaughter, accompanied by a short verse which read: ''You and I both know/There is nothing more to say/Chance has shut her shining eyes/And turned her face away.'

Axel Rudakubana, 17, from Lancashire, is set to stand trial next year after being charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

The inquests into the deaths of three young girls - Alice, Elsie and Bebe - are due to open today at Bootle Town Hall in Merseyside.

Over the last week family, friends and members of the local community have paid their respects to the victims of the attack.

Bebe King, aged six, was among the three young girls killed in the attack in Southport, Merseyside

Alice da Silva Aguiar, aged nine, was also one of the victims of the fatal stabbings in Southport on Monday, July 29

Elsie Dot Stancombe, aged seven, was also fatally wounded during the attack at a Taylor Swift themed dance class

People look on at floral tributes and balloons laid in the memory of the three girls in Southport

Hundreds of floral tributes have been left at the scene of the attack in Hart Street and a number of vigils have taken place in the town to remember the girls.

In a statement, Bebe's family said: 'No words can describe the devastation that has hit our family as we try to deal with the loss of our little girl Bebe.'

Alice's family said: 'Keep smiling and dancing like you love to do, our princess, like we said before to you, you're always our princess and no one would change that. Love from Your Hero Daddy and Mummy.'

During a service at St Patrick's Church in Southport on Tuesday afternoon hundreds gathered in memory Alice at the well-attended 'celebration of life'.

The nine-year-old girl's parents, Sergio and Alexandra. entered the memorial service at tightly clinging on to Alice's toy and ballet shoes.

The grieving parents extended gratitude to locals for their continued support in the wake of their child's death.

One speaker fought back tears as she said: 'Alice, you are the most beautiful, strongest girl in the world and I hope you know we love you from the bottom of our hearts. Keep smiling and dancing with the girls.'

She read out another message from the family, which said: 'We love you Alice, Your smile is extremely contagious and full of joy. You never fail to uplift everyone's mood.'

The service, led by Father John Heneghan, featured hymns and speeches read in both English and Portuguese.

Leading the heartfelt tributes from Alice's school Churchtown Primary was her headteacher Jinnie Payne.

She said: 'If I could describe her in at least three words it would be amazing, caring and confident.

'If you were having a bad day and you needed someone - Alice would be there to help you.

One of Alice's classmates said: 'You will be in our hearts forever. You are the most kindest person in the world, and we know that you are the strongest girl we have ever met.'

A little girl mourning among the floral tributes dedicated to Bebe, Alice and Elsie

People attend a vigil for the victims of the Southport stabbings on Monday, August 5, a week on from the attack

Axel Rudakubana, pictured centre in a court sketch on Thursday, August 1, has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 attempted murders following the attacks

A member of staff from Alice's school read out messages from her classmates, including one which said: 'Alice, so kind and caring, with a smile so bright, forever in our hearts.'

Prayers were also read out for Bebe and Elsie before the congregation gathered for a rendition of You Are My Sunshine outside the church following the ceremony.

Alice's funeral will be held this upcoming Sunday.

Elsie's great-aunt described her as 'lovely, sweet and gentle', BBC News reported.

Jean Stevenson said her grand-niece was 'absolutely the sweetest child you could ever wish to meet'.

Merseyside Police said all three families are being supported by specialist officers.

Five other children and two adults were seriously injured in the attack at around 11.45am on July 29. The children have all since been released from hospital.

Since the incident riots have sprung up around the country, fuelled by misinformation spread online, with around 400 people arrested in connection with the violence.

Around 100 individuals have been charged, according to director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised communities 'will be safe' after a Cobra meeting and said those taking part in the unrest will 'feel the full force of the law'.
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 Ismail Haniyeh.

The message, in which the Russian President said he understood the need for retaliation but asked the Islamic Republic not to target Israeli civilians, was delivered on Monday by Sergei Shoigu, a senior ally of the Kremlin leader.

Shoigu met with Iran's new president Masoud Pezeshkian earlier this week before holding a series of meetings with top Iranian officials as the Islamic Republic weighs its response to last week's assassination of Haniyeh.

Iranian sources described Shoigu's visit as 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.

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.

But they warned that the Middle East is on the brink of a major conflict, and said those behind the assassination of Haniyeh are bent on triggering a wider war.

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 Ismail Haniyeh

Russia has cultivated closer ties with Iran since the start of its war with Ukraine. Putin is seen shaking the hand of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian meets with Russian Security Council's Secretary Sergei Shoigu in Tehran, Iran August 5, 2024

FILE PHOTO: Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from the Gaza Strip, as seen from the city of Ashkelon, Israel, October 9, 2023

Russia has cultivated closer ties with Iran since the start of its war with Ukraine and for months has been preparing to sign a wide-ranging cooperation agreement with Tehran.

Neither Iranian nor Russian officials have offered comment on this week's talks, but Russia's state-run RIA news agency reported yesterday that Shoigu confirmed the assassination of Hamas' Haniyeh in Tehran, and Iran's response, were topics of discussion.

Tehran also pressed Moscow for the delivery of Russian-made Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets during Shoigu's visit, sources told Reuters, a key element of their ever-deepening military cooperation that has seen Iran provide countless kamikaze drones for Putin's so-called 'special military operation' in Ukraine.

In Washington meanwhile, an official from the Biden administration warned that there is a real risk of tensions spilling over into widespread violence if Iran were to launch a major strike on Israel.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasised 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.

Hamas' top leader Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated last week

A missile unveiled by Iran is launched in an unknown location in Iran

Iran said it had finalised arrangements last year for Russia to provide it with a host of military hardware to beef up its outdated air force, including Su-35 fighter jets, but is still waiting for the deliveries of the aircraft to begin

A Middle East-focused senior US official said Washington was doing all it can 'to dissuade all parties from going to a place they can't 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 offensive strikes.

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.

While regional and international partners sought to calm tensions amid the killing of Haniyeh in Tehran last week, Hamas announced yesterday that Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the October 7 attacks in Israel, had been made the group's new leader.

The selection of Sinwar, a calculated and secretive figure close to Iran, is widely seen as a defiant signal that the group is prepared to keep fighting Israel despite Haniyeh's death.

Gaza has suffered 10 months of hell, with huge swathes of the Strip demolished and almost 40,000 people said to have been killed amid incessant Israeli strikes.

But Sinwar is a ruthless hardliner who has vowed to fight to the bitter end and worked decades to develop Hamas' military and intelligence capabilities.

Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya television of his appointment: '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 we're preparing and intending for him.'

Hamas named Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the October 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader yesterday

Head of the political wing of the Palestinian Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip Yahya Sinwar speaks during a meeting in Gaza City on April 30, 2022

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

Hamas released a brief statement on his appointment that read: '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 [God] have mercy on him.'

But Lebanon's Hezbollah immediately declared its staunch support of Sinwar, highlighting his appointment as a symbol of Israeli failure in Gaza.

'Selecting the brother Yahya Sinwar from the heart of the besieged Gaza Strip  who is present the frontlines with resistance fighters and between the children of his people, under the rubble, blockade, killings and starvation  reasserts that the goals the enemy is seeking by killing leaders have failed,' the group said.

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 October 7 and ignited the Gaza conflict.
A chilling 'target list' circulated on social media by far-right thugs includes the home of a 88-year-old grandmother with a collapsed lung, a 275,000 semi and a visa firm that has nothing to do with asylum seekers.

Details of the 39 locations - which include immigration centres, services and solicitors - were shared on a group with 13,000 followers on messaging app Telegram alongside instructions to target them for protests tonight.

Today business and individuals contacted by MailOnline said they had boarded up their premises and told staff to work from home, while police vowed they 'are waiting' to arrest anyone who turns up at any of the addresses intent on disorder.

The list appears to have been put together haphazardly with with little or no research. Many of the locations are on quiet residential streets, while one in Greater Manchester is opposite a hospice.

Another address is in Essex is a 275,000 semi-detached house that was previously used as the registered address of an immigration advisory company that has since been dissolved.

A granddaughter shared this family photo on X and said their grandmother's home was on a list of addresses being targeted by far-right thugs

Details of the 39 locations - which include immigration centres, services and solicitors - were shared on a group with 13,000 followers

The granddaughter of the elderly lady whose home was featured on the list pleaded yesterday for yobs to stay away.

Tammy shared a family photo on X and added: '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.'

Tammy said her father is a freelance immigration advisor and that his business address is listed at her grandmother's house in a quiet residential area of Nottingham.

Alongside another photo, the concerned relative said her grandmother had suffered a collapsed lung earlier this year.

She added: 'I have no words to describe how it feels watching the hate unfold back home, let alone worrying about the safety of my family.'

Nottinghamshire police has confirmed the location is a 'home address' and urged people to stay away.

Another of the locations on the list is a visa services provider based in Sheffield.

The firm, which is located inside a terraced house opposite a church in a leafy area of the city, confirmed it had evacuated staff as a precaution while also boarding up the building.

A director at the company told MailOnline: 'I've been making an awful lot of calls and messages. We've boarded up the windows and doors of the building and all staff are working from home and not going near the premises.

'We've been in touch with police, who are going to be there. Initially we heard they won't going to and we should have given them a call if anything has happened but that message has changed now, so fair play to them.

'Our MP got in touch proactively and she helped with liaising with the police, so all credit to her. We also contacted the insurers, but they said they wouldn't cover us because they said it would fall under their definition of terrorism - which isn't covered by the policy.'

The director described the experience as 'surreal' - noting that his company did not even deal with cases of people seeking asylum.

One solicitors in Westcliff-on-Sea in Southend boarded up its doors and windows overnight after being included on a far-right online hit-list

An estate agent in North Finchley was also boarded up today before a possible demonstration tonight

'A lot of people have been getting in touch, mainly with messages of support,' he said. 'It's all just completely surreal. We're not there and the staff isn't there, so there isn't that immediate feeling of danger.

'It doesn't make any sense that we are on there. We're a really tiny company based in a terraced house in Sheffield near the university and hospital. And we don't even deal with asylum seekers and refugees - that's not the kind of work we do.

One visa services company is based in a 52,000 semi-detached house in the Midlands.

An employee told MailOnline: 'We have spoken to police and they are doing more patrols that normal. We have also moved from the address.'

The Telegram group included locations in towns and cities across England, from Aldershot to Wigan, with organisers saying 'they won't stop coming until you tell them...'.

One message - posted to the group's 15,000 members - said: 'The n*****s will try to abuse the unrest to steal. It's in their blood to do so.'

Another called for the death of Nick Lowles, the founder of anti-extremism charity Hope Not Hate. The horrific call-out said: 'If anyone wants to go down in a blaze of glory, take this man with you.

'Death to Nick Lowles. Any man who takes his life will be a hero to the cause.' One extremely disturbing reply read: 'How can I do it I'm game.'

Mr Lowles has responded to the threats, calling the man involved 'serious and dangerous'.

And a further post told would-be rioters to wear masks, hoodies and leave their phones at home, underneath a photo of a young man in a balaclava and the tagline 'white n radical'.

An assistant chief constable has urged people to ignore the list and said police will be waiting.

A car burns on Parliament Road, in Middlesbrough, during a riot on Sunday

Andy Mariner, of Essex Police, said there is 'disinformation on social media', adding: 'Our message is clear - ignore it.'

'If you're planning on coming here intent on disorder, we will be waiting for you, and you will be arrested,' he said.

'There is information going around on the internet highlighting specific locations around the country and some of those details of locations are just plain false, including here in Essex.'

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 Starmer on Monday.

These officers have been taken away from their regular duties to deal with ongoing disorder.

The number of people arrested in the wake of violent disorder around the country now stands at 428, with around 120 charged, the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) said.

The numbers are 'expected to rise significantly day by day'.

It comes as police warned suspects could be remanded in custody, even if they do not have any previous convictions, as a deterrent, and that those involved in violent disorder could face up to five years in jail.

Police chiefs will avoid releasing suspects on bail to get them behind bars and in court immediately.
A Cabinet minister has admitted Elon Musk is 'accountable to no one' amid the controversial billionaire's war of words with Sir Keir Starmer.

The Tesla boss and owner of X, formerly known as Twitter, is currently engaged in a angry spat with the Prime Minister over Britain's riots crisis.

Mr Musk, estimated to be the world's richest person with a fortune of around $220billion, claimed 'civil war is inevitable' following the violence in the UK.

He also branded Britain's premier 'Two Tier Keir' as he fuelled far-right claims that UK police treat some groups more harshly than others.

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle suggested dealing with powerful tech firms is more akin to diplomacy with other nations than the Government's usual relationship with businesses.

A Cabinet minister has admitted Elon Musk is 'accountable to no one' amid the controversial billionaire's war of words with Sir Keir Starmer

The Tesla boss and owner of X, formerly known as Twitter , is currently engaged in a angry spat with the Prime Minister over Britain's riots crisis

Mr Musk used his X social media site, formerly known as Twitter, to reply to a post that blamed 'mass migration and open borders' for unrest in the UK

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle suggested dealing with powerful tech firms is more akin to diplomacy with other nations than the Government's usual relationship with businesses

He told The Times: 'Elon Musk has the power to have a profound impact the outcome of the war between Russia and Ukraine and he is one person who is accountable to no one.

'People who know him say, 'There's a lot of depth to him. Never underestimate his intellect.'

'But I also don't underestimate the impact that he can have, not just on public discourse, but on actual facts on the ground.

'So, the relationship we have with some of these companies is much more akin to the negotiations with fellow secretaries of state in other countries, simply because of the scale and scope that they have.'

Mr Kyle recently met with representatives of TikTok, Google, X, and Facebook and Instagram owner Meta in the wake of Britain's riots.

He noted how most major tech firms have their own foreign policies and 'will decide what their relationship is like with different territories'.

'The relationship you have to have with them is unlike any relationship any previous administration would have ever had to have with a private sector organisation,' he added.

'It doesn't mean that we go cap in hand. It doesn't mean that we are disempowered. It just means we have to be sophisticated, and we have to be modern in the way that we interact.

'We go out as secretaries of state around the world dealing with other states because we want the investment and we want to build relationships.

'If we could have 5 per cent extra R&D (research and development) spend from Amazon in Britain, that would unleash not thousands or millions, but billions of pounds of investment into our country.'

Downing Street this week hit back at Mr Musk's intervention over Britain's riots and said there was 'no justification' for his remarks.

Sir Thomas Winsor, who previously served as Her Majestys chief inspector of constabulary, rejected Mr Musk's suggestion of 'two-tier policing' in the UK.

He told LBC radio: 'Mr Musk it seems to me should stick to batteries, cars and rockets because he's very good at it and leave to the UK authorities the job of dealing with the protection of the safety and security of our communities.'
National Grid bosses today denied claims that South East England and London could face blackouts by 2028 unless the region pays more for its power than other areas.

Executives from the body's Electricity System Operator (ESO) were claimed to have made the allegations in private conversations with the energy industry.

An industry source told the Daily Telegraph that ESO bosses said the network was getting so congested that 'there will be blackouts in the South East by 2028'.

They allegedly blamed this on a push by the Government to make the grid net zero by 2030 by switching to less predictable wind and solar power.

A second source said the ESO was 'very worried about keeping the lights on' in the region, and that not addressing the issue made blackouts a 'credible' possibility.

But the ESO confirmed today that it does not predict blackouts, with a spokesman telling MailOnline: 'We refute this categorically. We are not forecasting blackouts.'

The ESO, which moves electricity around Britain's system to match supply and demand, has already confirmed it wants to introduce so-called 'zonal pricing'.

This National Grid ESO map shows network infrastructure to be delivered beyond 2030

This National Grid map gives the approximate locations of its electricity transmission network

This would mean power suppliers could be paid more in the South East than other regions if demand is higher, and the ESO believes it would benefit households.

It has cited separate studies by both the Government and Ofgem showing consumer savings from zonal pricing of 15billion to 50billion over a period of 15 to 20 years.

The ESO has claimed lower electricity prices could encourage more competitive production of green hydrogen in Scotland and northern England.

It also argues that the lower costs could prove crucial for decarbonising the UK's high temperature manufacturing industries such as glass, cement and ceramics.

The ESO has confirmed that it does not predict blackouts in 2028 under its official position.

An electricity pylon carries cables over fields near Amersham in Buckinghamshire (file image)

A spokesman told MailOnline: 'As a prudent system operator we regularly assess the future challenges to decarbonising Great Britain's electricity system whilst maintaining security of supply and managing cost.

'The ESO's analysis in respect of zonal pricing supports the strategic build out and operation of Britain's electricity system in a manner that is efficient and ensures that all networks and assets are utilised to their maximum.

'The ESO's analysis does not show there will be blackouts because of current market arrangements. It indicates that we will need to continue to use our operational toolkit to balance the electricity system on a national basis.

'However, we expect that reforms to the wholesale electricity market, the accelerated delivery of electricity networks, and delivery of new generation and storage, will create a more efficient electricity system for the future.'

Former Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho said in March that 'zonal pricing' would ultimately save UK households up to 45 on their annual electricity bill

Former Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho said in March that 'zonal pricing' had been successfully used in Norway and Denmark and would ultimately save UK households up to 45 on their annual electricity bill.

A Department for Energy Security and Net Zero spokeswoman told MailOnline today: 'This Government is committed to boosting Britain's energy security.

'Our mission is for clean power by 2030 because this is the best way to achieve energy independence and protect billpayers.

'We have a well-established system in place to secure our electricity capacity needs with reliable, affordable power for future years to come.'

The Government is keen for electricity market reform which it hopes will make the UK a clean energy superpower', with a secure system protected from price shocks.

Officials are now reviewing responses to the 'Review of Energy Market Arrangements' consultation which ran from March until May under Rishi Sunak's government.

The 'Capacity Market', which is the country's main mechanism to ensure security of supply, sets the volume of electricity procured and is based on ESO advice.

This is further scrutinised by an independent advisory group called the Panel of Technical Experts.
A woman pulled from a burning home by firefighters has woken from a coma and found out she has severe burns to more than a quarter of her body.

Emergency services were called to the Pristine Crescent home in Varsity Lakes on the Gold Coast on July 30 after a 'huge bang' set the house alight.

Three fire crews were sent to fight the blaze, which caused the roof to collapse.

Simona Udenzi, 35, was found inside and rescued by a firefighter who carried her to the front yard.

As the Italian national was put in an ambulance, neighbours recalled seeing her clothes 'burnt to a crisp', the Gold Coast Bulletin reported.

The keen Brazilian dancer suffered life threatening burns to more than 25 per cent of her body and was taken to Royal Brisbane Hospital, where she was placed into an induced coma.

Broadbeach Waters resident Guillermo Dias has created a GoFundMe for his 'beautiful friend'.

'She has just been woken up from her induced coma and has a long road to recovery,' he wrote.

Simona Udenzi (pictured), who was in a Gold Coast home that was destroyed in a fire (right) has woken from a coma and found out she has severe burns to more than a quarter of her body

Three fire crews were sent to fight the blaze (pictured), which caused the roof to collapse, while Ms Udenzi was found inside and rescued by a firefighter

He added that his friend was likely to be in hospital for a 'few months and will need further medical attention now and in the future'.

As Ms Udenzi's Australian working holiday visa has now expired, she will need to go back to Italy when she is well enough to travel.

'Simi is a dear friend of mine and has brought so much joy to my life and all those who have met her whether that be through acting, her Brazilian dance group or through work, she is a bright light and a beautiful soul,' Mr Dias wrote.

'She is so generous, loving, caring and thoughtful.

'Any donations would be greatly appreciate to help Simona through her recovery and for her future back home in Italy.'

The emergency services were called to Varsity Lakes at around 8.30am on July 30 after a 'huge bang' set the house alight

The smoke was so thick when fire crews arrived that they couldn't see two metres in front of them.

'We found the back half of the house was completely engulfed in fire and the roof had collapsed,' firefighter Matt Roser told the ABC.

'Thanks to the swift action of fire crews, they saved that person's life and they have been taken to hospital,'

Fire investigators are working with police to determine the cause of the blaze.
Four Hyatt hotel employees have been charged with being party to felony murder after they allegedly beat up and dragged a black man out of a hotel and stood on his stomach for nearly 10 minutes.

Footage released by the family of D'Vontaye Mitchell shows hotel security guard Todd Erickson, front desk worker Devin Johnson-Carson, bellhop Herbert Williamson, and security guard Brandon Turner brutally beating him up during what his family said was a severe mental health episode.

An autopsy that investigated his death found he had died from 'restraint asphyxia', as well as the toxic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine.

Mitchell was seen frantically running into the hotel's lobby and then into the gift shop before entering the women's bathroom.

Seconds later, a woman emerges and Turner, who was off-duty but happened to be visiting staff at that moment, drags Mitchell out of the bathroom into the lobby by his shirt.

The two begin to struggle, and Turner punches Mitchell, knocking him to the floor. He then viciously punches Mitchell six times and drags him out of the hotel with the help of a bystander. Mitchell gets up and tries to go back inside.

Williamson, Johnson-Carson and Erickson, who was on duty as the security manager, then begin to beat him up. All four of them were seen holding Mitchell down on his stomach for eight to nine minutes before police and emergency responders arrive.

Four Hyatt hotel employees have been charged with being party to felony murder after they allegedly beat up and dragged a black man out of a hotel and stood on his stomach for nearly 10 minutes

This undated photo provided by Samantha Mitchell shows D'Vontaye Mitchell, left, who died on June 30, 2024, after being pinned to the ground by hotel security guards in Milwaukee with his sister Nayish Mitchell and cousin Samantha Mitchell

A video taken by a witness includes audio of Mitchell moaning and saying he is sorry

The video shows Mitchell tries to break free multiple times, and Erickson hits him with a baton before he eventually stops moving.

A video taken by a witness includes audio of Mitchell moaning and saying he is sorry.

Despite the brutal video showing the alleged murder, the autopsy has raised several questions over how easily Mitchell died.

An autopsy found that Mitchell was morbidly obese and had cocaine and methamphetamine in his system.

But despite, this, the county medical examiner ultimately determined that Mitchell died of 'restraint asphyxia.' He may have lived if the employees allowed him to turn onto his side, the medical examiner said.

Erickson told cops that Mitchell was very strong and kept resisting them and tried to bite him, but claimed he never did anything to intentionally hurt him.

Mitchell tries to break free from his captors multiple times

Footage released by Mitchell's family's lawyers showed frantically running into the hotel's lobby and then into the gift shop before entering the women's bathroom

He was severely beaten by the four Hyatt employees

The county medical examiner ultimately determined that Mitchell died of 'restraint asphyxia'

Johnson-Carson told investigators that Mitchell was not in a 'stable sort of mind,' and he was speaking 'gibberish'

Turner, meanwhile, told a detective that he heard several women screaming in the bathroom that Mitchell ran into, adding that he believed he was on drugs.

Johnson-Carson told investigators that Mitchell was not in a 'stable sort of mind,' and he was speaking 'gibberish,' the complaint said.

He said he remembered Mitchell saying 'stop' and 'why' and something about breathing while he was being held down. He told Williamson to stop applying pressure, which he did.

Johnson-Carson said that Mitchell displayed 'clear signs of extreme distress, including gags, distressed breathing and repeated pleas for help,' according to the complaint.

Prosecutors accused the four men of actively ignoring the signs of Mitchell's distress.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump (pictured, left) posted a statement on X on Tuesday evening calling the charges 'a significant step towards justice for the family of D'Vontaye Mitchell'

FILE - Rev. Al Sharpton pauses at the funeral for D'Vontaye Mitchell, July 11, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash, File)

The complaint concludes that the employees had to have known Mitchell was in distress. 'All of these factors, the gasping, the actions and words of DM, the distress that he was in, show that all four Defendants were aware that holding DM face first on the ground was 'practically certain' to cause impairment of his physical condition,' the complaint says.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump posted a statement on X on Tuesday evening calling the charges 'a significant step towards justice for the family of D'Vontaye Mitchell!'

DeAsia Harmon, Mitchell's widow, said Tuesday that the decision was a relief. But she questioned why it took weeks.

'These people are on camera taking my husband's life,' she said. 'They should have been charged the moment they did that.'

Aimbridge Hospitality, the company that manages the hotel, said previously that several employees involved in Mitchell's death have been fired.

The company released a statement Tuesday evening saying it had cooperated fully with law enforcement and will continue to cooperate with prosecutors. 'Our hearts are with Mr. Mitchell's family and loved ones as this case moves forward,' the statement said.

Reached by telephone Tuesday evening, Erickson referred a request for comment to his attorney, Michael Steinle, who didn't return voicemail or email messages.

It was unclear if any of the other three employees had attorneys. Online court records didn't list any for them Tuesday evening. A telephone listing for Williamson had been disconnected, and The Associated Press could not immediately locate phone numbers or other contact information for Johnson-Carson or Turner.

The Milwaukee County District Attorney's office said in a news release that arrest warrants had been issued for all four employees. The office and the Milwaukee Police Department did not immediately respond to emails inquiring if the employees had been arrested or had attorneys.
Police have arrested a man they believe killed a British tourist using a martial arts chokehold near a nightclub in Gran Canaria.

It was initially thought the 47-year-old victim had died of a heart attack after consuming drugs.

But detectives revealed today the incident was being treated as a homicide as they arrested a 32-year-old suspect on July 29 on suspicion of killing him with the martial arts chokehold known as Mata leao.

The incident occurred at a nightspot called Discoteca Chic in the southern Gran Canaria resort of Playa del Ingles in the early hours of July 27, according to well-placed sources.

A spokesman for National Police in San Bartolome de Tirajana said they had reviewed CCTV evidence that pointed to an employee of the club grabbing the victim by the neck before he fell to the floor, 'immobilised'.

A busy street at Maspalomas, Playa del Ingles in 2023. Police saw footage showing an employee choking a man outside a club in the region, they said

Police found the victim 'lying lifeless on the ground' near an unnamed nightspot in Playa del Ingles in the early hours of July 27.

Several police units responded to a call along with other emergency services.

'Once they were there, they confirmed the death of the man, an English tourist, and cordoned off the area,' a statement read.

Investigators spoke to witnesses and staff, as well as friends and the partner of the victim.

'The initial information received pointed towards the dead man suffering a heart attack as according to his friends, he had consumed drugs that night.

'However marks were observed on his neck and his body was transported to the island's Institute of Forensic Medicine for further analysis.

'Several witnesses told police they had seen how one of the members of staff had carried out a chokehold known as a Mata leao because the British man he performed it on was very agitated.

'When he was immobilised he collapsed on the ground.'

Police have since analysed CCTV cameras and drawn evidence they say show an employee of the nightspot 'grabbing the victim by the neck before he fell to the floor'.

General view of Playa de Ingles in Gran Canaria, near where a man was found dead

'The forensic report corroborated the cause of death as asphyxia.

'Given the risk the suspected killer could abscond, a search operation was put in place and once he was located the suspect was immediately arrested.

'He was subsequently remanded to a local jail on the orders of an investigating magistrate.'

A probe into the incident was ongoing today.

The club is not due to reopen until Saturday and nobody there could be reached today.
Petrified children swimming in the sea were left paddling away in terror after a 10ft shark was spotted on the Cornish coast.

The juvenile basking shark could clearly be seen gliding through the clear turquoise water at St Ives Harbour, Cornwall.

In a scene reminiscent to Jaws, a group of around 30 youngsters panicked and fled the water when they saw the shark's dorsal mere waves away.

However, unbeknownst to the children, despite the sea creature's size it is completely harmless to humans

As the world's second largest fish - after whale sharks - basking sharks can be terrifying at first glance with their huge mouth and thousand of tiny hooked teeth.

Did YOU see what happened? Please email shannon.mcguigan@mailonline.co.uk

Terrified children swimming in the sea on the coast of St Ives, Cornwall were left paddling away in terror after a 10ft shark (pictured) was spotted

However unbeknownst to the youngsters the large sea creature was a basking shark and is completely harmless to humans

But according to the National Geographic they have no interest on in tearing through human flesh. Typically a placid shark, as this fish loves nothing more than to munch on tiny organisms such as zooplankton.

The young specimen had swam next to a harbour wall and beach where the young children and teenagers were having a dip at 9pm last night.

Although Andy Narbett of Tiget Lilly Boat Trip St Ives may have been fascinated to see the creature, the nearby youngsters weren't as thrilled.

The 49-year-old said: 'I had finished my trips for the day and was walking around the harbour front when I spotted the juvenile basking shark next to the harbour wall.

'It was incredible to see it so close and very rare as we haven't seen any basking sharks for some years in the bay.

He added: 'The poor kids who were in the water must have only been 20ft from it.

'They didn't realise it was harmless so they started screaming and got straight out of the shallow water.

'At a guess there were 20 kids playing on the small beach and eight in the water on paddle boards.

'I went on social media and joked afterwards that Jaws had entered the harbour!'

People flocked to social media to share their thought on the aquatic creature's visit to the Cornish harbour.

One quipped: 'We're going to need a bigger boat, while another joked: 'I'm glad we didn't swim here today.'

The basking shark used to be fished for their meat, fins and liver oil, which was used in lamps, lubricants and perfumes

It is the second largest fish in the world after whale sharks and typically eats zooplankton

A local added: 'A basking shark! Beautiful animal and totally harmless. That would suggest that the water there is clean so it's nice to see.'

According to the National Geographic, basking sharks used to be fished for their meat, fins and liver oil, which was used in lamps, lubricants and perfumes.

It is thought as many as 100,000 basking sharks were taken out of the North Atlantic, with its population on the verge of collapsing.

In 1998, the sharks became a protected species but were still being knocked by boats, impacted by harmful microplastics and caught in fishing nets.

They are one of only three shark species to feed on plankton and come in to shallow water in the spring and summer months to feed.
Tommy Robinson has goaded cops in Cyprus over their claim that they are 'ready to help' British police take action against him.

Robinson has been fanning the flames of tension in riot-hit Britain with a constant stream of inflammatory and inaccurate social media posts while on a Mediterranean holiday.

The 41-year-old, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is also facing legal difficulties after failing to attend a court hearing last Monday for allegedly breaching an order not to repeat lies about a Syrian refugee.

This prompted a warrant to be issued for his arrest, although a High Court judge said this should not be carried out 'until early October', to give him time to confirm he would attend the next hearing voluntarily.

Police in Cyprus today said they stood ready to assist their British counterparts if necessary, but Robinson retorted: 'Lucky I'm not in Cyprus then.'

Tommy Robinson has been fanning the flames of tension in riot-hit Britain with a constant stream of inflammatory and inaccurate social media posts while on holiday in Cyprus

The 41-year-old, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is also facing legal difficulties after failing to attend a court hearing last Monday on a separate issue

'We are in contact with the British police, and if they need our assistance, we are ready to help,' a spokesperson said.

Cyprus police told news agency AFP they believed Robinson was still on the island, and they have informed British authorities they are keeping an eye on him.

'He is still in Cyprus as far as we know,' the spokesperson said.

Britain's director of public prosecutions warned today that social media influencers allegedly fuelling violent disorder would be extradited, but did not mention Robinson by name.

Stephen Parkinson told the BBC that offenders 'must know that they are not safe and there is nowhere to hide'.

He added: 'We would certainly consider extradition if we are satisfied that an offence has been committed.'

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said 'there will be a reckoning' for perpetrators, adding that social media put a 'rocket booster' under the violence which erupted more than a week ago after three children were murdered.

This week a reporter from the Mail watched on as Robinson, armed only with his phone, seamlessly merged enjoying the luxury of a 400-a-night all-inclusive hotel with rabble-rousing.

Having first secured his lounger with a towel, there were trips to the gym, for pizza and to the pool - all interspersed with a constant stream of inflammatory social media posts.

There were messages attacking the police for going soft on Muslim protests, on the media for labelling protesters as 'far-Right' and on Home Secretary Yvette Cooper for calling them 'thugs'.

He also shared a series of fake stories over the weekend, including claims that Muslims had stabbed protesters in Staffordshire and attacked three women in Scotland. On and on the messages went, almost around the clock.

Thugs attack a line of riot police during disturbances in Plymouth on Tuesday night

And yet when accused of having a hand in whipping up the on-going disorder, Robinson was outraged.

'It's not on me, it's on you,' he posted in a video. 'This mess is your doing not mine. Your policy failures gave birth to these tensions, your failure to listen & to lie & label everyone far right has caused this.

'Your cowardice to enforce the law equally has caused this. Two-tier policing has caused this not me.'

With nearly 900,000 followers on Twitter/X, Robinson, a violent, convicted criminal, has transformed himself from street fighter to social media influencer.

He was banned from the platform in 2018, but allowed back on last year by its new owner, Elon Musk. Analytics published by Robinson last week showed that his posts had been viewed 1.2 billion times in the three months to August.

It comes as an armchair thug who urged far-Right yobs to 'smash the f**k' out of a hotel housing asylum seekers was locked up yesterday pending his sentencing.

Jordan Parlour, a 28-year-old sign installer described by his lawyer as a 'family man', is the first man to be charged over Facebook posts relating to the violent disorder across the UK.

Parlour - who was unable to take to the streets for violence because he had broken his heel - turned to social media to incite protesters to target the Britannia Hotel in Leeds, West Yorkshire.

The hotel, in the Seacroft area of the city and close to Parlour's home, had been attacked with rocks and a window had been broken - though it was not the scene of mass violence.

Jordan Parlour, a 28-year-old sign installer described by his lawyer as a 'family man', is the first man to be charged over Facebook posts relating to the violent disorder across the UK

Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecutions has said that terror legislation is already being used in relation to one rioting case, meaning other instances of public disorder could be treated similarly.

Yesterday, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper hit out at 'armchair thugs' such as Tommy Robinson, who have been fanning the flames of tension online.

One man - 19-year-old James Nelson - has already been charged, as he was jailed for two months after pleading guilty to causing criminal damage.

Parlour attempted to stir up racial hatred with posts on Facebook using his mobile phone between August 1 and 5.

One post read: 'Every man and his dog should smash the f**k out of the Britannia Hotel.' In a second, he stated: 'Cos they are over here living the life of Reilly, off the tax you hard working people earn, when it could be put to better use.'
A 28,000-a-year private school previously categorised as 'not fit for purpose' by Ofsted was mysteriously found to be shut when an inspector arrived.

The watchdog official had arrived at Future First Independent school in Hockley, Birmingham last June but was greeted by an empty site with 'no staff or pupils'.

They tried to contact the school to inform them of the inspection, but their calls went unanswered and they were left standing outside the locked site.

Future First Independent school's website seems to suggest the educational facility is temporarily closed until February 2025.

The private school, located canal-side on All Saints Street, is registered to cater for pupils with a range of special educational needs.

First Future Independent School (pictured) was mysteriously found to be closed when an Ofsted inspector arrived on site in June

Aftaab Hussain, who is listed on the Ofsted report as the headteacher but is titled as the school's business manager on LinkedIn, has 'open to work' on his profile picture

The watchdog's report said they were 'unable to complete' or reach a judgement on their inspection because the facility appeared 'to have closed'

Aftaab Hussain, who is listed on the Ofsted report as the headteacher but is titled as the school's business manager on LinkedIn, has 'open to work' on his profile picture.

According to his social media page, the headmaster has a bachelor's degree in computer software technology from Birmingham City University.

His profile does not list any educational training or positions relating to teaching.

He was also listed as a director of a company - Birmingham Community Venture - registered to the same address as the school.

According to Companies House, he has since resigned from his position on July 4.

This comes shortly after the private school was rated as 'inadequate' in all categories by the watchdog in March 2022.

During this visit, the inspector determined the private school's curriculum was 'not fit for purpose'.

The report read: 'Leaders have not given enough attention to what staff need to teach and the order in which it needs to be taught.

'This means that learning is disconnected and is not taught in a logical order that helps pupils to learn.'

There was also particular focus on the school failing to meet the basic requirements for relationship and sex education.

The findings stated whilst pupils learnt about healthy relationships, 'their comments are not reflective of this.'

On the private school's website it appears to suggest the school will reopen in February 2025

Ofsted also noted that pupils 'regularly engage[d] in unsafe, challenging behaviour' at the time, and that routine boiler checks, appliance checks had been neglected.

The water checks had also been overlooked with water coming out of the taps at danger of burning students and staff.

Fire risk assessments were also left uncompleted, with a fire exit in the building left damaged and awaiting repair during the inspection.

In 2012 the private school had 40 pupils aged between 14 and 16, paying 6599.97 per academic year

Five years later, there were eight students at the school, who were forking out between 178.57 to 500 a week on tuition, the Birmingham Mail reports.

As of 2022, 19 pupils were registered to Future First Independent school - aged from 13 to 18 and were shelling out 28,225.

But, Ofsted's findings also concluded multiple pupils being educated at the school were younger than the minimum age at the time.

The watchdog's report said: 'A number of key school policies and development plans are based on the work of other providers.

'This means that identified actions are not relevant to the school and will not secure improvement.

'The curriculum is poorly planned and does not build on what pupils already know. Pupils who experience additional barriers to learning do not do as well as they could.'

Although the outcome of their 2008 Ofsted report is unavailable on their website, they were previously awarded a 'good' rating in 2012.

After this, they informed the Department for Education of their hopes to grow the school to two sites.

This comes shortly after the 28,000-a-year school was ranked inadequate by Ofsted during an inspection in 2022

However, in March 2015, the watchdog found the private school was no longer meeting all of the standards required.

The primary concerns highlighted were a lack of checks of emergency lighting systems as well as the fire alarms.

It also missed the mark on standards for management and leadership.

However, a year later the school was back up in the 'good' category for independent schools.

A Department for Education spokesperson said: 'We are working closely with Birmingham local authority on the next steps for Future First school.'

MailOnline has approached Future First Independent School and Aftaab Hussain for comment.
A former police chief has told Elon Musk to 'stick to batteries, cars and rockets' after the billionaire used his X platform to start a war of words with Sir Keir Starmer over Britain's riots crisis.

Sir Thomas Winsor, whose role saw him oversee the efficiency of police services in England and Wales between 2012 and 2022, also said claims that protests in the UK are subject to 'two-tier policing' are unfounded.

Musk has promoted the idea of different approaches to policing based on race, a concept which has been spread by Tommy Robinson and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage amid a series of far-right riots across UK cities.

The Prime Minister announced on Monday that a so-called 'standing army' of 6,000 specialist officers will be ready by the end of the week.

Sir Thomas took aim at comments made by Musk, who called the Prime Minister 'two-tier Keir' in a series of tweets on Tuesday and had previously written: 'Why aren't all communities protected in Britain?'

'Mr Musk, it seems to me, should stick to batteries, cars and rockets - because he's very good at it - and leave to the UK authorities the job of dealing with the protection of the safety and security of our communities,' he told LBC's Nick Ferrari.

As police officers and communities brace for more unrest today, it comes as:

Sir Thomas Winsor (pictured) said claims that protest in the UK are subject to 'two-tier policing' are unfounded

Elon Musk has used his X platform to criticise the government's handling of policing amid the riot crisis

Riots have broken out across Britain since the Southport stabbings which claimed the lives of three young girls. Pictured is a police car which was torched in Sunderland last week

Asked whether he saw evidence of selective policing during his time as chief inspector of constabulary, Sir Thomas replied: 'No.'

'It doesn't exist - policing is even handed,' he continued.

'If people are committing offences, and individual cases have to be dealt with on their individual merits, then they'll be stopped and they may be charged and prosecuted.'

Downing Street has said it would not engage again with the Tesla CEO, having previously said his posts about a potential civil war in the UK had 'no justification'. Musk has repeatedly targeted the Labour leader since then.

The violence was sparked by false claims about the identity of the teenager suspected of killing three young girls and injuring several others in a knife attack in Southport on July 29, and has seen shops looted and hotels housing asylum seekers attacked.

Sir Thomas said there is a 'fundamental difference' between 'noisy' pro-Palestine protests and 'violent disorder that we see now', adding that accusations of two-tier policing 'increases a perception of unfairness which is not correct'.

More than 400 people have been arrested after disorder around England and Northern Ireland, according to police sources, with the number expected to rise in the coming days.

Sir Thomas also suggested there should be 'criminal liability' for senior managers at social media companies that tolerate 'harmful material' and incitement of crime on their websites.

Mr Musk used his X social media site, formerly known as Twitter, to reply to a post that blamed 'mass migration and open borders' for unrest in the UK

Musk joked that the UK Government could execute people for Facebook posts they don't like, sharing a Family Guy meme

He also 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 and asked: 'Why aren't all communities protected in Britain? @Keir_Starmer'

The billionaire also shared a video of a man being arrested over Facebook posts and compared Britain to the Soviet Union

When asked how the online sector should be policed, he said: 'It should be policed according to the law and vigorously.

'I think the Online Safety Act is a big step forward but it doesn't go far enough.'

He added his 2018 State of Policing report had suggested some social media companies were now 'significant pieces of public infrastructure' and 'merely fining' them was not sufficient.

'I said there should be criminal liability for senior managers and that should be at the heart of a system of regulation,' he continued.

Former home secretary and Tory leadership contender Dame Priti Patel told GB News on Tuesday night that Sir Keir Starmer should recall Parliament to respond to claims of two-tier policing, which the Government denies.

She said: 'The fact that that perception exists undermines public trust and confidence in our police. That's not a good place to be.'

Musk also hit out at the UK's police as he responded to an offensive cartoon

Sir Keir said: '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'

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has also rejected accusations of two-tier policing as 'complete nonsense' and criticised those voicing the claims for putting officers at risk.

Responding to claims that far-right riots have been dealt with more harshly than other recent unrest, he told broadcasters: 'It's complete nonsense.

'We have commentators from either end of the political spectrum who like to throw accusations of bias at the police because we stand in the middle, we operate independently under the law without fear or favour.

'And if you've got crazy views over there, you don't like it, and if you've got crazy views over there, you don't like it. We will continue to do that.

'The serious voices who echo those are of more concern to me, because the risk is they legitimise it, and they legitimise the violence that the officers I'm sending on mutual aid today will face on the streets. They are putting them at risk by suggesting that any of those officers are going out with any intent other than to operate without fear or favour in protecting communities.'

Sir Mark declined to name individuals when asked about Musk's intervention.

It comes as Sir Keir was also accused by a Tory leadership contender of not being 'as clear as he could be' that some of the disorder plaguing Britain's streets emanated from 'sectarian gangs'.

The Government has rejected claims that far-right riots over the last week have been dealt with more harshly than other recent unrest and protests.

Conservative MP Robert Jenrick, a former immigration minister, appeared to echo this on Wednesday.

'We mustn't be squeamish or selective in how we call out violence,' he told Times Radio.

'I think the Prime Minister has not been as clear as he could be about the fact that, whilst the majority, the overwhelming majority of the incidents that we've seen have emanated either from the far right or from a range of thugs and criminals who've chosen to take part in these events, there are nonetheless a much smaller number of sectarian gangs who have been causing disruption, violence and intimidation.'

Mr Jenrick, who is seeking to replace Rishi Sunak at the helm of the Conservative Party, pointed to Birmingham as an example.

A counter-protest staged in the city on Monday after social media rumours of a far-right march turned violent, with a car window smashed and attempts to slash a tyre on a Sky News vehicle.

West Midlands Police said the level of policing during 'sporadic incidents' of disorder had been commensurate with intelligence assessments made before hundreds of people gathered in the Bordesley Green area.

Communities minister Jim McMahon rejected accusations of two-tier policing, in particular in relation to the Birmingham incident.

Speaking of X owner Mr Musk's intervention, he told Times Radio: 'I certainly understand where the narrative comes from, because what he's trying to do is to present a case that we treat different communities in a different way and somehow we give special treatment. That is not the case.'

Mr McMahon said his understanding of the Birmingham incident is that police made a tactical decision to 'withdraw and regroup' but that any potential criminal activity is expected to be followed up.

Operational decisions are for the police, he said, 'but I also want to be clear that people should not believe that because their arrest wasn't taking place on the day that that somehow means that justice will not catch up with people'.

He also told LBC that, while there was 'a lot of provocation' and 'a lot of intimidation' taking place, that did not justify violence and intimidation in response.

Senior Tory Mr Jenrick accused Home Office minister Jess Phillips, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley, of appearing to 'explain away or justify intimidation against a female journalist (by) sectarian gangs on the streets of her own city in Birmingham'.

Sky News had reported that its communities correspondent, Becky Johnson, and crew were followed in their van by a knife-wielding man who attempted to slash a tyre.

Ms Phillips, the safeguarding minister, wrote on X, formerly Twitter: '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 Jenrick said it was 'wrong' that neither Sir Keir nor Home Secretary Yvette Cooper had commented on the Birmingham situation.

The Newark MP has himself come under fire from Conservative peer Baroness Sayeeda Warsi.

Commenting on a Tuesday social media video in which Mr Jenrick spoke of 'sectarian gangs' in some cases 'attacking white Britons', the former Conservative Party co-chairwoman said: 'Use this awful moment to reflect on your language and conduct and what impact it's had on where the country finds itself.'
Generous Brits have rallied together to raise money for victims of last week's riots with funds to rebuild a torched library in Liverpool and replace a burnt out car in Middlesbrough.

Thousands have donated to restore Spellow Lane library in Liverpool which was destroyed on Saturday by far-right rioters.

Thugs torched the building which is used as both a library hub and a food bank.

Shocking pictures revealed the extent of damage inside the library, with bookshelves toppled over, books burnt and shards of glass smashed across the floor.

The fundraiser, which has now reached 184,717, aims to replenish the burnt books and fix the damaged space inside.

Meanwhile, a fundraiser for a carer whose car was torched during a riot in Middlesbrough in Saturday night has reached 16,628.

It comes as the carer, Brendan Nwabichie, 33, says the incident left him 'traumatised.'

Brendan Nwabichie, 33, says the incident left him 'traumatised' after his car was destroyed

Thousands have donated to restore Spellow Lane library in Liverpool which was destroyed on Saturday by far-right rioters

Shocking pictures revealed the extent of damage inside the library, with bookshelves toppled over and shards of glass smashed across the floor

Thugs torched the building which is used as both a library hub and a food bank

A fundraiser for a carer whose car was torched during a riot in Middlesbrough in Saturday night has reached 16,628

Brendan returned from a 12-hour shift at a local care home to discover that his car had been flipped over and torched by far-right thugs.

The care worker, who is from Nigeria, had made the decision to leave his car at home after hearing of a potential riot in Middlesbrough town centre.

Brendan said: 'As an immigrant, I wanted to avoid getting in the way of people doing their protest, so I kept my car at home. I didn't know if it would be peaceful or not, but I didn't want to be targeted'.

However, the Teesside University Student, who is working as agency carer while studying, said he realised he had already been a 'victim of the riots' when he returned home.

Upon seeing his car flipped over and burnt, Brendan described feeling 'sick', adding that the 'completely wrecked' 2009 Peugeot 'was very important because I use it for work sometimes and also for my studies.'

Brendan had saved up ' a lot' over a year to afford the car and had purchased it just three months earlier.

Brendan said: 'I am due to begin and internship in Newcastle in September and the car would have been important to me at that time, it was upsetting to see what they had done.

'But other people suffered worse when their homes were attacked while they were inside them.

The care worker, who is from Nigeria, had made the decision to leave his car at home after hearing of a potential riot in Middlesbrough town centre

Brendan had saved up ' a lot' over a year to afford the car (pictured) and had purchased it just three months earlier

Riots in Middlesbrough on Saturday after false information was spread online

'I find it very hard to understand why this was happening, why are they attacking families and migrants and refugees?'

Brendan added: 'My dream of coming to the UK and studying and working in Middlesbrough, turned into a nightmare because of this situation.'

While Brendan felt that that his 'safety had been threatened' in the horrifying incident, he felt 'relieved' and 'safe once more' after being flooded with support from his workplace, residents and colleagues.

The student and care worker described his love for his work in Middlesbrough, describing the residents as 'wonderful people' who 'don't care about race or colour'.

As a care worker, he said: 'My grandparents are not here and I get comfort looking after them (the residents) as it reminds me all those who cared for my family and to return that care'.

Ellie Smart, manager at Clare's Care Ltd, the agency where Brendan has worked for the past six months, has set up a GoFundMe page to buy Brendan anew car.

She said he joined the Redcar-based company earlier this year and colleagues and patients comment on how 'lovely' he is.

Ellie said: 'For someone to be out doing such an important job and to come back home to this is awful. He is so lovely as well. He messaged us at around 8.30pm last night to tell us what had happened. He said he was traumatised and had been a victim of the riots.'

Despite an original goal of 3000 to replace the car, the GoFundMe has raised over 16,000.

Ellie said once they have raised the money to replace Brendan's car, any money after that would be given to help other people in the community who have found themselves victims of the rioting and out of pocket.

She said they offered to pay for taxis for staff to make sure they got there safely and also said if they were too frightened they didn't have to go to work and would still be paid.

Ellie added: 'We did pay for a few taxis, but not one person cancelled their shift. They still went to work and put the needs of the elderly residents first, even at their own risk.'

The chaos of the past week comes after three girls were killed in a stabbing in Southport.

Riots were spurred across the UK after misinformation circulated online regarding the teenage suspect being an asylum seeker.
Britain's most senior police officer today described grabbing a Sky News journalist's microphone and dropping it to the ground as a 'trivial sort of side line'.

Sir Mark Rowley was asked on Monday by reporter Rob Catherall if he was 'going to end two-tier policing' amid the riots as he rushed out of a Cobra meeting.

But the Metropolitan Police commissioner didn't break his stride as he removed the microphone and dropped it outside the Cabinet Office on Whitehall.

Two days later, speaking to Sky News this morning, Sir Mark smiled as he said: 'The incident with this guy, journalist, was trivial, it was a trivial sort of side line.'

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said its commissioner was 'in a hurry' as he walked through a small group of photographers and journalists to get to his car.

Sir Mark Rowley grabbed the microphone when he was asked on Monday by reporter Rob Catherall if he was 'going to end two-tier policing' as he rushed out of a Cobra meeting

The Metropolitan Police commissioner didn't break his stride as he removed reporter Rob Catherall's microphone and dropped it outside the Cabinet Office on Whitehall on Monday

And Sir Mark previously said it was not his intention to knock the microphone to the ground - he had simply tried to move it out of his path as he left the meeting.

Monday's Cobra meeting - which brought together ministers and police chiefs - was held after a sixth day of disorder on Sunday saw rioters clash with police and storm hotels housing asylum seekers.

Its purpose was to allow the Government to set out a response to the violent unrest which has broken out across the country following the Southport stabbings on July 29.

In his interview with Sky News today, Sir Mark added: 'We had some very constructive meetings at Cobra. It's really helpful that Government is looking to bring all the arms of Government behind supporting us and that's very welcome to chiefs.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley speaks to Sky News this morning about the microphone-grabbing incident on Monday, saying: 'It was a trivial sort of side line'

'Meanwhile we're facing a very big challenge, there's no shirking from that.

'But I'm very proud of the men and women of the Metropolitan Police and I know my colleagues across the country as chiefs are equally proud of their men and women.

'These are men and women who are willing to stand in the middle of violence and confront it, in a situation that 99 per cent of the population would run a million miles from. They're prepared to do that to protect the peace and keep people safe, and that deserves our admiration.'

On Monday evening, Sir Mark apologised for the microphone incident.

He said: 'This morning I was part of a positive and constructive Cobra meeting with the Prime Minister about our collective response to hateful behaviour and violent disorder across the country.

Sir Mark Rowley arrives at the Cabinet Office in London yesterday for another Cobra meeting

Sir Mark Rowley leaves the Cabinet Office in London last night after the latest Cobra session

'There's been a story running all day about my exit from the meeting. This is a distraction from the critical events we are dealing with.

'It was agreed the Prime Minister would provide an update afterwards and it was not my place to speak publicly. In an effort to move a microphone out of my path.

'I'm sorry that I knocked it to the floor. That was never my intention. We remain focused on the critical and urgent matters at hand.'

In a separate interview today, Sir Mark rejected accusations of two-tier policing as 'complete nonsense' and criticised those voicing the claims for putting officers at risk.

Responding to claims that far-right riots have been dealt with more harshly than other recent unrest, he told broadcasters: 'It's complete nonsense.

People protest in Middlesbrough on Sunday following the stabbing attacks in Southport

'We have commentators from either end of the political spectrum who like to throw accusations of bias at the police because we stand in the middle, we operate independently under the law without fear or favour.'

He also added that 'thousands of officers (are) on tonight' to protect immigration law specialists being targeted by rioters.

Sir Mark said the targeting of immigration lawyers and services are 'at the center of our planning for tonight'.

Police remain braced for planned unrest as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings and threats against immigration law specialists.

Around 100 people have already been charged in connection with the unrest, and charges continued to be brought last night, with defendants appearing in court today.

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.

Police officers with protesters outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham on Sunday

These officers have been taken away from their regular duties to deal with ongoing disorder.

In addition to more riot police being put on stand-by, forces are also stepping up neighbourhood policing patrols, teams of detectives are drawing on CCTV, body-worn footage and making use of retrospective facial recognition to identify perpetrators of violence, and intelligence teams are monitoring well-known influencers and organisers for activity.

More than 400 people have been arrested after disorder around England and Northern Ireland, according to police sources, with the number expected to rise in the coming days.

The violence was sparked by false claims about the identity of the teenager suspected of killing three young girls and injuring several others in a knife attack in Southport on July 29, and has seen shops looted and hotels housing asylum seekers attacked.
A hero businessman who tried to disarm the Southport knifeman as he launched a frenzied attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class has admitted he wishes he had been 'more like Bruce Willis'.

Jonathan Hayes, 63, was stabbed in the leg after confronting the attacker, whom he likened to a 'crouching tiger'.

The grandfather, whose office is in the same building where the holiday club dance class was taking place, said he heard screams and rushed to help after hearing one of his colleagues cry out in alarm.

When he opened the door, he locked eyes with the attacker who looked 'pretty menacing'.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4 as he recovers from the July 29 stabbing rampage, he said: 'I knew immediately that he shouldn't have been there, wrong guy, wrong place, and then he came at me.

'I used this phrase to the policeman, I said, "I would like to have been more Bruce Willis about the whole thing", but I wasn't able to get the knife off him.

'But I don't believe he managed to hurt anybody else after, and I think in the interim period, all the children had managed to evacuate the building, apart from those that I believe, were locked in the toilet with one of the yoga teachers.'

As police officers and communities brace for more unrest today, it comes as:

Jonathan Hayes (pictured), 63, was stabbed in the leg after confronting the attacker, whom he likened to a 'crouching tiger'

Alice Dasilva Aguilar, aged nine, was one of the victims of the fatal stabbings in Southport on Monday, July 29

Elsie Dot Stancome, aged seven, was also fatally wounded during the attack at a Taylor Swift themed dance class

Bebe King, aged six, was among the three young girls killed in the attack in Southport, Merseyside

Mr Hayes said he had surgery after suffering severe wounds and that he is lucky to have survived.

He said: 'It only narrowly missed my femoral artery, and I've been told if it had caught that I probably wouldn't be here so I'm very grateful. But there's no reason why I don't think I will make a full recovery. I've not even begun to process the horror show that I've seen.'

Bebe King, six, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, were killed in the attack.

A wave of riots have erupted across Britain since, which first started over false claims that the teenage suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker who came to the UK on a boat.

Mr Hayes said that Sir Keir Starmer's rhetoric about using the 'full force of the law' to deter rioters was unhelpful.

He said: 'I actually don't think that the trouble on the Right has got anything at all to do with the Southport stabbings.

'There appears to be a strong undercurrent of discontent for some time about the levels of immigration. And this is just a catalyst or a trigger, but I don't think it's the root cause. I do get dismayed when I hear Keir Starmer talking about [how] the police are going to come down with the full force of the law on these people.

'But they are not actually talking about the root cause, and they need to stop listening and understanding that. They need to address the cause rather than the symptoms.'

Mr Hayes was speaking as the inquest into the deaths of Bebe, Alice and Elsie Dot got underway today.

This morning, nine days after the killings, senior coroner Julie Goulding formally opened the inquests into their deaths at Bootle Town Hall in Merseyside.

Axel Rudakubana, 17, from Lancashire, is set to stand trial next year after being charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Adjourning the inquests to allow the criminal process to take place, the coroner said: 'It is impossible to adequately articulate the devastating, lifelong effects the truly tragic events of Monday, July 29 2024 have had, and will continue to have, on the parents, families and friends of Elsie, Bebe and Alice, who cruelly lost their young lives in such horrific circumstances.

People look on at floral tributes and balloons laid in the memory of the three girls in Southport

'The three young children were full of life and energy and will be missed beyond any description my woefully inadequate words may attempt to describe.

'I therefore offer my deepest condolences to Elsie's, Bebe's and Alice's parents, families and friends, and those heartfelt condolences of all of my staff here at the coroner's court.'

Ms Goulding said the opening of the inquests was a 'short, sombre, formal process'.

Opening the inquest into Elsie's death, coroner's officer James Martindale told the hearing: 'On Monday July 29, shortly before 10am, a group of 26 children, including Elsie, attended a dance yoga studio at Northwood Business Park, 32-34 Hart Street, Southport, for an organised dance party.

'At some time between 11.40am and 11.50am a male, who has now been identified as Axel Rudakubana, attended the premises and is then alleged to have started attacking those present.

'Three children tragically died and others, children and adult, were injured, some critically,

'Axel Rudakubana was detained at the scene and has now been charged with Elsie's murder.'

He said Elsie's death was pronounced at 1.53pm at 32-34 Hart Street, and she was identified by a police officer using a description of the clothing she was wearing and a recent photograph.

The same description of the incident was read for Bebe and Alice.

The hearing was told Bebe was pronounced dead at 1.03pm, outside 22-24 Hart Street, further down the street from the dance studio, and she was also identified by a police officer.

Alice was pronounced dead at 1.20am on Tuesday, July 30, at Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

She was identified by her father, Sergio Aguiar.

People look at floral tributes in Maple Street, Southport, after the killing of three young girls

Police officers stand next to a cordon in the village of Banks after the arrest of a suspect in the killings

No family members were present for the hearing, which lasted about 15 minutes and was attended by 17 members of the media.

Over the last week family, friends and members of the local community have paid their respects to the victims of the attack.

Hundreds of floral tributes have been left at the scene of the attack in Hart Street and a number of vigils have taken place in the town to remember the girls.

In a statement, Bebe's family said: 'No words can describe the devastation that has hit our family as we try to deal with the loss of our little girl Bebe.'

Alice's family said: 'Keep smiling and dancing like you love to do, our princess, like we said before to you, you're always our princess and no one would change that. Love from Your Hero Daddy and Mummy.'

During a service at St Patrick's Church in Southport on Tuesday afternoon hundreds gathered in memory Alice.

One speaker fought back tears as she said: 'Alice, you are the most beautiful, strongest girl in the world and I hope you know we love you from the bottom of our hearts. Keep smiling and dancing with the girls.'

She read out another message from the family, which said: 'We love you Alice, Your smile is extremely contagious and full of joy. You never fail to uplift everyone's mood.'

The service, led by Father John Heneghan, featured hymns and speeches read in both English and Portuguese.

One of Alice's classmates said: 'You will be in our hearts forever. You are the most kindest person in the world, and we know that you are the strongest girl we have ever met.'

People attend a vigil for the victims of the Southport stabbings on Monday, August 5, a week on from the attack

Axel Rudakubana, pictured centre in a court sketch on Thursday, August 1, has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 attempted murders following the attacks

A member of staff from Alice's school read out messages from her classmates, including one which said: 'Alice, so kind and caring, with a smile so bright, forever in our hearts.'

The congregation gathered for a rendition of You Are My Sunshine outside the church following the ceremony.

Elsie's great-aunt described her as 'lovely, sweet and gentle', BBC News reported.

Jean Stevenson said her grand-niece was 'absolutely the sweetest child you could ever wish to meet'.

Merseyside Police said all three families are being supported by specialist officers.

Five other children and two adults were seriously injured in the attack at around 11.45am on July 29. The children have all since been released from hospital.

Since the incident riots have sprung up around the country, fuelled by misinformation spread online, with around 400 people arrested in connection with the violence.

Around 100 individuals have been charged, according to director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised communities 'will be safe' after a Cobra meeting and said those taking part in the unrest will 'feel the full force of the law'.
Southwest Airlines has been accused of cruel treatment against a five-year-old disabled girl - just days after a nurse said she was booted from a flight for being disfigured.

Janey Sprouse-Cadenas, from Colorado Springs, says she was questioned about her daughter Lucy's disability as she was trying to pre-board.

The mother and daughter reportedly took four flights to a medical conference in Boston and were questioned about the significance of Lucy's illness in multiple cities.

'I shouldnt have to hold a big sign and shout it from the rooftops of whats wrong with my daughter for her to get the help and support that she needs,' Janey told Fox21.

Lucy has a rare neurological disorder that requires extensive care but is not physically visible. The condition can cause life-threatening seizures and she went through a functional hemispherectomy earlier this year to try to prevent them.

Janey Sprouse-Cadenas, from Colorado Springs, says she was questioned about her daughter Lucy's disability as she was trying to pre-board. Lucy is pictured after she had a functional hemispherectomy earlier this year

Sprouse-Cadenas said employees questioned her about why Lucy needed pre-boarding and what qualified her for it.

Fox21 noted that Southwest has a policy against asking that kind of question.

Sprouse-Cadenas said the treatment was so bad that other employees approached her to suggest that she make a complaint.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Southwest Airlines for comment on this story.

The airline told Fox21 in a statement: 'We always strive to meet our customers standards.

'Our teams will look into this matter, and address any irregularities directly with the customer.'

Sprouse-Cadenas said employees questioned her about why Lucy needed pre-boarding and what qualified her for it

Lucy has a rare neurological disorder that requires extensive care but is not physically visible

The alleged incident comes shortly after a California nurse claimed Southwest Airlines kicked her off a flight because of non-cancerous tumors that grow on her face and body.

Briana Solari was booted off a flight from Burbank-Hollywood Airport in LA to her home in Sacramento shortly after surgery to reduce the growths. The procedure left her with visible red scarring.

Solari's tumors are caused by condition called neurofibromatosis (NF) that makes the growths appear over nerve-endings.

She told KCRA that a Southwest flight attendant strutted up to her after she'd boarded and asked her to come back to the gate.

'I exited the airplane, and they said, "Well, there's been some concerns. Do you have any, you know, any medical conditions, diseases?" And I said, "No, I had surgery."

Briana Solari, pictured, was booted off a Southwest flight from Burbank to Sacramento over flight attendants' fears that non-cancerous tumors on her face may have been contagious

The nurse has been given a total of $545 in vouchers from Southwest - but never wants to fly the airline again and is now planning to sue

'That's really none of their business what's going on, but I said, "No, I had surgery," and they said, "Okay," so then he got on the telephone with somebody.'

Solari says the flight attendant called a Southwest-contracted doctor who she'd never been examined by.

Southwest staff refused to let her speak to the medic to try and explain her condition, Solari said.

Southwest gave Solari a $500 flight voucher and $45 meal voucher.

But she was so disgusted by the experience that she has vowed never to set foot on one of their planes again. She also plans to sue.
An Alaska Airlines jet was forced to make a wobbly landing at Portland airport following a terrifying mid-air emergency.

The Embraer E175LR was travelling from Seattle, Washington, to Redmond, Oregon, when pilots discovered a problem with the steering.

A heart-stopping video shows the jet's front wheel wobbling violently as it touched down on the runway on Monday.

Another clip shows the dialogue between pilots and air traffic control as they navigate the landing.

Shortly after touching down, officials at PDX Airport confirm with the pilots whether the plane has lost steering.

An Alaska Airlines jet was forced to make a wobbly landing at Portland airport following a terrifying mid-air emerge

The pilots respond asking if fire trucks will be on standby.

Flight 2020 was operated by Alaskan Air-owned Horizon Air and was forced to re route after a problem with its hydraulic system, a spokesman told KOIN.

There were no injuries and all passengers on board made it to their intended destination within two hours.

'Yesterday, flight 2020 operated by Horizon Air flying from Seattle to Redmond, Ore.  diverted to Portland, Ore. due to an issue involving the hydraulic system that controls various systems on the aircraft, including control of the nose wheel steering,' a statement from the Alaska Airlines said.

'Our flight crew is trained for scenarios like this, declared an emergency for priority landing, and landed without incident.

'We swapped the aircraft and guests arrived to their destination about two hours later than scheduled.

'The aircraft is being inspected by our maintenance team. We apologize to our guests for the inconvenience.'

The incident is another headache for Alaska Airlines, which was at the center of huge controversy after a door plug blew out on one of its Boeing 737 Max planes mid flight.

The Embraer E175LR was travelling from Seattle, Washington to Redmond, Oregon when pilots discovered a problem with the steering

A heart-stopping video shows the jet's front wheel wobbling violently as it touched down on the runway on Monday

The incident led to the suspension of production Boeing's 737 jets amid an FAA investigation.

The planes were previously grounded in the wake of two deadly crashes in 2018 and 2019 which killed a total of 346 people.

Last month, Boeing executives accepted a $243.6million plea deal that would see the company avoid a criminal trial over the crashes.

Under the agreement, Boeing will plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge stemming from the fatal crashes in Indonesia in October 2018 and in Ethiopia less than five months later,

Boeing must also pay the hefty fine, invest at least $455million in compliance and safety programs, and have an independent monitor oversee Boeing's safety and quality procedures for three years.
The premiers of New South Wales and Victoria have fired more furious potshots at each other over their work from home policies.

The feud between the Labor leaders was sparked by NSW Premier Chris Minns' order on Monday for all government workers to return to the offices full-time by the following day.

The shock scrapping of flexible working conditions which had been in place since the start of Covid lockdowns four years ago sparked massive backlash from staff

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan sparked a war of words with her interstate counterpart with a pitch to furious NSW staff to move south of the border.

Mr Minns slammed her comments before Ms Allan reignited the feud between the two leaders on Wednesday when she doubled down on her stance of welcoming NSW government staff with open arms.

Premier Allan branded Mr Minns' new directive as obsolete as it was later clarified workers would only be required to come into the office three days a week, the same rule in place for Victorian public servants.

'Let's be clear, I have no plans to change our flexible working arrangements for the Victorian public service,' Premier Allan told reporters in Melbourne.

'And it appears that neither does Chris Minns, it appears that neither does NSW. It appears we have pretty much the same flexible policy when it comes to our public service.

NSW government workers were ordered to return to their offices from Tuesday

Chris Minns (pictured) swiped back at criticism from Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, saying: 'Frankly, with all of the lockdowns in Melbourne, I would have thought a lot of people in Victoria would be desperate to get out of the house'

'Why this is important is because this is an outcome that keeps women and men connected to their workforce, connected to their families and connected to their communities.

'So we'll be keeping these flexible arrangements in place, and it appears so will NSW.'

Queensland Labor Steven Miles then weighed into the controversy when he revealed that he too won't be forcing government staff to return to the office full-time.

'I don't have any plans at this stage to change the current arrangements,' he said.

'I understand NSW is in a somewhat different position to Queensland. Our economy continues to be strong. Our CBD has come back more strongly.'

The Queensland government is also trying to save money on office space, which was detailed in treasurer Cameron Dick's budget ahead of the upcoming election

Mr Minns shot back at Ms Allan on Tuesday after her initial comments.

'I've seen the Victorian government knock NSW for this change. We're not for changing. We think it's important for the public service in NSW,' he said.

'And at the end of the day, frankly, with all of the lockdowns in Melbourne, I would have thought a lot of people in Victoria would be desperate to get out of the house, but that's a matter for them.'

Jacinta Allan (pictured) encouraged disgruntled NSW workers to move to Victoria and work for her government

The premier also reiterated the importance of government staff working in a proper office environment.

'You can't be a nurse in your tracky dacks in the lounge room and you can't teach a class in your backyard while you're doing jobs around the house,' Mr Minns said.

'You need to be present and available and this is a reflection of the nature of public service and the nature of working for the taxpayers of the state.'

Several disillusioned NSW government staff took to social media to express their disappointment in Mr Minns' demands.

'If this happens, we should make a concerted effort to bring pre-made lunch and boycott CBD venues,' one said.

Another said the government 'can force staff into the city' they 'can't force them to buy things, coffee, lunch etc. nor to be vibrant'.

NSW government staff who don't want to return to the office five days a week have been urged to move south of the border. Pictured is a deserted Sydney CBD

Ms Allan urged disgruntled NSW staff to consider making to move to Victoria.

'Anyone who's a bit concerned in NSW about what's going up there, is more than welcome to come and work for us here in Victoria,' she said.

'We've got a big agenda, building more homes, delivering the Suburban Rail Loop, getting on with things that are important to families, and they'd be welcome to join the task.'

The memo to NSW staff on Monday warned agencies 'will adopt a policy that provides for all staff to work principally at an approved workplace, office or related work site, and to spread attendance across all days of the working week'.

Some workers could be excused from the rule but would be subject to 'formal approvals and agreements' and create a record of 'the reasons and circumstances'.
Delta customers are complaining about the carrier's response to last month's CrowdStrike outage.

The airline's operations were brought to a virtual standstill because of the incident July 19, and several travelers unhappy with the company's attempts to make amends have been airing their frustrations.

Several spoke to The Wall Street Journal on Tuesday, citing issues that arose during the crisis like unseen hotel costs and false advice. Some reimbursements did not cover the full costs of their returns, and others were forced to wait for days for some sort of solution.

Meanwhile, Delta remains the subject of an investigation by the Department of Transportation (DOT), which has received more than 5,000 complaints about the airline's failures.

The carrier, meanwhile, continues to cast blame on CrowdStike and Microsoft, for more than 5,000 cancellations. Delta's problems persisted for days longer than other airlines.

Scroll down for video:

Delta customers complained about the carrier's response to last month's CrowdStrike outage this week to a prominent newspaper

Chris Nickinson, seen here with wife Bridget, was one of several to speak to the Wall Street Journal this week unhappy with the airline's response. He missed out on a work trip to Los Angeles, after the disaster saw him miss a connecting flight in Atlanta

'It's more the principle of just being treated respectfully,' said Chris Nickinson of his experience with Delta, recalling how he never got to his destination.

He missed out on a work trip to Los Angeles, after the disaster saw him miss a connecting flight in Atlanta from Florida.

The airline proceeded to try to reroute him to Santa Barbara, spurring Nickinson to book a last-minute hotel room in the California city.

That fell apart when Delta canceled that rebooked flight at 1 am, leading him to spend the night at the airport.

Delta then fanned the figurative flames of Nickinson's rage by telling him it wouldn't reimburse him for his $338 hotel room, despite him never spending the night.

The carrier also rejected covering the more-than $600 cost of his already booked hotel room in LA, which he also never reached.

As for an explanation, the carrier told Nickinson they don't cover 'pre-existing expenses.'

The airline proceeded to try to reroute him to Santa Barbara, spurring Nickinson to book a hotel room. That fell apart when Delta cancelled that rebooked flight at 1 am, leading him to spend the night at the airport. They would not pay for his hotel rooms in LA and Santa Barbara

'I do not accept your non excuse for not reimbursing me for hotel expenses. YOU FAILED TO GET ME TO MY DESTINATION', he reportedly wrote in response.

He went on to brand the three separate deposits of 10,000 SkyMiles provided by Delta 'a joke' - pointing to others receiving similar restitution for far less serious plights like broken WiFi.

He also reiterated how he is a 'million miler' - meaning the last thing he needs is more miles.

After much complaining, he said he was able to obtain a further $300 in the form of a travel credit, as well as a fully refunded ticket.

He told the Journal that he is among the more than 5,000 who have filed a complaint against the carrier with the Transportation Department.

Another person to speak out against Delta and their response to the disaster was Kyle Kastranec, who became stranded after flying with his wife from Detroit to Denver.

He recalled how his return flight had been scheduled for Sunday, and how Delta told him that the earliest they could get him home was late Wednesday.

This, he recalled, was unacceptable, as he had a work conference in Detroit that Tuesday.

Kyle Kastranec recallled how he was forced to drive the more than 1,200 miles for 20 straight hours to get to his destination after Delta told him he would have to wait three days for a flight

He was forced to drive the more than 1,200 mile journey there instead, a trip he said took 20 straight hours.

When he went on to complain, Delta responded by offering him a choice between $50 or 5,000 miles.

Similar to Nickinson, he called that 'laughable,' before filing his own DOT complaint.

Delta, in turn, refunded his and his wife's return flight, while reimbursing them a further $900 for expenses.

This covered the cost of their hotel room in Denver, as well as other things like cab rides, gas and snacks.

Included in the reimbursement package was $250 reserved for a rental car, which Nickinson send ended up costing $348.

When he brought this up, Delta reportedly responded by telling him the price for this unremarkable Nissan Rouge exceeded the preset amount - leading the chief creative marketing strategist to issue another complaint to the Journal.

'To enforce these caps in really extenuating circumstances like this feels really odd to me,' Kastranec said, claiming it was not the $98 that irked him, but the principle behind it.

The final person to speak to the Journal for their report was Genevieve Pierce Kyle, whose plans of a trip to Europe from her native Austin were foiled by Delta's scheduling mishaps

'My loyalty is kind of out the window,' he added, after saying he previously had went out of his way to fly with the airline.

The final person to speak to the Journal for their report was Genevieve Pierce Kyle, whose plans of a trip to Europe from her native Austin were foiled by Delta's scheduling mishaps.

The first obstacle came in the form of a delay to her first flight to Atlanta, which meant her possibly missing her connecting flight to Scotland.

After not being able to reach any Delta reps for an hour-and-a-half, she realized the next earliest Delta flight to Edinburgh would be days away.

Again, this was unacceptable for the Texas mom, who was taking the trip with her husband and 15-year-old daughter.

She told the Journal how she had already paid for hotels and train fare in not only Scotland but London and Amsterdam as well.

She also said she was set to met an old friend whom she had not seen in 30 years, leading her to book three last minute tickets on Air Canada to catch a connecting flight in Toronto, which altogether cost her an eyewatering $5,000.

Delta has claimed the airline suffered a whopping $500 million in losses and extra costs, and is continuing to frame CrowdStrike and partner Microsoft as the cause of the disaster. The federal investigation into Delta's response to the chaos remains ongoing

The family would eventually make it to Scotland, at which point she was able to reach someone at Delta who wrongly told her she was to miss out on her return flight since the family did not embark on the first leg of their long-planned trip.

This left her to pay another $7,000 for a series of new tickets - this time from Delta - all at the unnamed staffer's advice.

Only later did another Delta worker realize the mistake, and refund her the $7,000, she said.

Moreover, after 12 hours of waiting on the carrier's customer service chat portal online, she was able to get a $4,600 for the misspent $5,000, despite the oversight seemingly occurring because of erroneous instruction from a Delta staffer.

'Were not very frequent fliers, so were maybe a little naive in how we went about this,' Pierce Kyle conceded.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian, meanwhile, has claimed the airline suffered a whopping $500 million in losses and extra costs, and is continuing to frame CrowdStrike and partner Microsoft as the cause of the disaster, which lasted for days for the airline company.

The airline has hired a bigtime litigator David Boies to go after the cybersecurity firm, leading both CrowdStrike and Microsoft to slam Delta's claims surrounding the outage as 'false.'

It claimed a single sensor error led to the worldwide outage, which saw more than 8 million Microsoft user report their computers were showing the dreaded 'blue screen of death.'

Since CrowdStrike's Falcon sensor is closely knit with Windows, its crash brought down the entire system, the company said.

The federal investigation into Delta's own response to the conflicts that ensued, meanwhile, remains ongoing.
Donald Trump's running mate Sen. J.D. Vance slammed Kamala Harris's V.P. pick on Wednesday amid reports that Gov. Tim Walz had skipped out on being deployed to Iraq with the Minnesota National Guard.

Vance, who served with the U.S. Marines in Iraq, said it was 'shameful' if Walz had retired in 2005 just as his battalion was preparing to go to war.

'I mean, your job as a senior enlisted guy in a unit is to keep your people safe. That's not a job you can switch out of on a moment's notice,' Vance told DailyMail.com during an exclusive interview aboard his campaign plane, nicknamed Trump Force Two.

'So if he abandoned his troops before they went to Iraq or wherever ... absolutely shameful.'

Walz, the governor of Minnesota, was named by Harris as her running mate on Tuesday.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is accused of skipping out on his National Guard unit just before it deployed to Iraq in 2005 to begin his political career

He appeared alongside her at a campaign rally in Philadelphia later that day.

But reports quickly resurfaced of anger among his former brothers in arms who accused him of 'betraying' his country just as they were preparing for deployment

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.

'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,' he wrote on Facebook in 2018.

'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.'

On Wednesday morning, Vance was on his way to Michigan for a campaign event hours before Harris was due to arrive in the same spot.

He said his role was to remain 'laser-focused' on scrutinizing her policy failures on immigration, energy and manufacturing.

But he added he was astonished that the Harris campaign had not checked out Walz's military record and accused him of lying to make a political point.

DailyMail.com is traveling with Trump's running mate J.D. Vance and his wife Usha aboard Trump Force Two

J.D. Vance spent six years in U.S. Marines, including six months deployed to Iraq

Vance added he was astonished that the Harris campaign had not checked out Walz's military record and accused him of lying to make a political point. Walz is pictured right while serving with the U.S. Army National Guard in 1992

'There was a clip the Kamala campaign posted about him where he's making a gun control argument,' ' said Vance. ' He said, Look, you should not be able to carry the weapons that I carried in war.

'And I'm, I'm thinking to myself, well, when did you go to war? What weapon did you carry in the war, Tim, because apparently you skipped out on your unit before they went to Iraq.

'I know he didn't go to a combat zone, so why is he lying to make a political point?'

Vance, who grew up in Ohio, is seen by the Trump campaign as key to eating into the Democrats' so-called 'blue wall' of Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

On Wednesday, he will first be in Shelby Township, Michigan, and at 2 p.m. in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

The aim is to keep pressure on Harris, who is due in both places a few hours later.
This is the astonishing moment a bull runner was seriously injured as he was thrown into the air by a bull and repeatedly gored while laying helpless on the ground at a Costa Blanca festival.

Horrific footage showed the animal punching its horn into the youngster's right leg and bending it back and forth at knee-level as he tried to reach safety behind a barrier after being up-ended.

Spectators tried to divert the bull's attention by pulling on its tail and yelling - although one appeared to think it might be a good idea to try to buckle the animal's legs by kicking them repeatedly. The powerfully-built bull didn't even flinch as it was attacked from behind.

Another man then risked upsetting the bull again by kicking it in the backside after it had appeared to calm down.

The ugly scenes unfolded yesterday on the first night of the famous fiestas in Calpe near Benidorm where bulls are let loose on the streets in so-called Bous al Carrer.

The bull runner stood no chance against the huge animal running through the streets

In shocking scenes, the man is repeatedly gored by a bull during a Bous al Carrer run

Spectators flinch as the bull runner is gored on the streets during a festival near Benidorm

Some stepped in to try to help the man, but were no match for the bull's sheer strength

The extent of the victim's injuries have not yet been made public but have been described locally as serious.

He remained in hospital today. His nationality is not known.

The most famous festival involving bulls is the San Fermin festival in the northern Spanish town of Pamplona which takes place every July.

Dozens of runners, including tourists especially Americans, are injured every year as they are chased through the streets of the old town.

The Calpe event is popular with Brit expats and holidaymakers. Bulls are let loose in the old town as part of celebrations which go on practically 24 hours a day.

Festivals involving bulls remain hugely popular in Spain despite bullfighting losing its appeal with the country's younger generations.

Last September father-of two Jose Antonio Subies, 61, died at a hospital in Valencia after suffering gore injuries which affected his liver and one of his lungs at a festival in nearby La Pobla de Fornals.

Mr Rubies was a high-ranking executive for ceramic wall and floor tiles firm Pamesa.

And last July, the so-called Messi of Matadors was severely injured after being thrown off balance by a 467kg bull during an event in Santiago.

Andres Roca Rey, 26, sustained multiple injuries and bruises covering his body after being gored and was immediately taken to hospital on July 25.

The bull charged at the Peruvian, dragging him back to the barriers around the stadium and throwing him into the air.

He was left slumped against the boards as others jumped in to try to distract the bull and pull him to safety.

The Medical Service of Santander's Plaza de Toros issued two reports, referring to a 'polytrauma affecting the left knee' and 'multiple bruises on the neck, face, right thigh and left knee'.

The animals are often tortured before the run to incite them in creating a spectacle

With some weighing more than 1,000lbs, the bull continued despite attempts to pull it off

Horrifying scenes showed spectators pulling the bull's tail as it attacked

Between 50 and 100 attendees are injured in bull runs alone each year.

The events also have horrific consequences for the animals involved.

Animal rights group PETA warns that even in Running of the Bulls events, the bulls are killed after the 'show'.

During the July festival in San Fermin, a total of 48 bulls are tortured and killed over the course of a week, they say.

And at the start of the show, the animals are intentionally panicked by launching a rocket to terrify them, before shouting spectators agitate the bull into running.

The animals often then fall or crash headfirst while running at speed, causing horrific injuries.
A new Banksy artwork of monkeys has appeared in London just days after elephant and goat paintings were discovered in the capital.

The painting, which shows three monkeys swinging from a railway bridge, popped up in Brick Lane and follows two others in South London this week - one near Kew Bridge in Richmond and another in Chelsea.

One goat appeared on Monday, two elephants on Tuesday and three monkeys today, meaning a fourth painting would likely show four animals.

The elusive artist confirmed the monkey mural was his on Instagram but did not caption the post, fuelling speculation about its meaning.

Three monkeys have been associated with the Japanese proverb 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil'. In Banksy's work the monkeys are not covering their eyes, ears or mouths.

It has been sprayed black, near a vintage clothing shop and a coffee house in the popular market street, not far from Shoreditch High Street.

The painting, which shows three monkeys swinging from a railway bridge, popped up in Brick Lane

Another new artwork, confirmed to be by Banksy, was unveiled on a wall of a house in Chelsea, London this week

Banksy posted artwork of a goat perched on top of a wall near Kew Bridge in Richmond on Monday

The elusive artist confirmed the piece was his on Instagram but did not caption the post, fuelling speculation about its meaning

On Tuesday the Bristol-based artist posted a photo of two elephant silhouettes with their trunks stretched towards each other in Chelsea.

He also posted artwork of a goat perched on top of a wall near Kew Bridge on Monday.

Fans of Banksy took to social media today to share their delight at the artist's new addition. One said: 'Banks is clearly just making the Zoo in London right now.'

Another added: 'Didn't disappoint, knew there'd be a day 3!'

Banksy did not write a caption for any of his recent posts which has caused fans to question the meaning of the three artworks - with some saying the piece in Chelsea could be a reference to 'elephants in the room'.

Speaking of the elephants in Chelsea, Josh Rendell, who is Kensington and Chelsea Council's councillor for Stanley ward, told MailOnline: 'We're already lucky enough to have a Banksy in the north of the borough on Portobello Road, so it's amazing that the great Banksy has now come to Chelsea too.

'It's private property so we're reaching out to the owner on how we might be able to work with them to protect it.'

On Monday, footage captured by CCTV cameras showed the moment Banksy climbed into a cherry picker wearing a face mask and hard hat as he prepared to paint the Kew Bridge artwork.

On Tuesday the Bristol-based artist posted a photo of two elephant silhouettes with their trunks stretched towards each other in Chelsea

Some are saying the piece in Chelsea could be a reference to 'elephants in the room'

People look at the the new Banksy piece of artwork near Kew Bridge of a goat on a wall

Employees move a CCTV camera back to its original position after Banksy moved it

Another Banksy mural appeared by Kew Bridge in London this week

Two men are seen in the back of the cherry picker van in Kew Bridge early in the morning this week

Footage captured by CCTV showed a cherry picker van with two men dressed in orange high-vis clothing and helmets - one of whom is believed to be Banksy - in Kew Bridge on Monday

One of the men in Kew Bridge, who is masked (right), is believed to be elusive artist Banksy

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

The tree mural near Finsbury Park was sabotaged by people who threw white paint at it

Banksy's Sweep It Under the Carpet mural, which appeared in 2006 in Chalk Farm, London

Banksy's piece Valentine's Day Mascara appeared on a house in Margate in February 2023

Banksy's work ' Love Is In The Bin' self-destructed in Sotheby's, London, in 2018

How Banksy was unmasked as Robin Gunningham, a public schoolboy from Bristol Banksy's true identity was revealed as Robin Gunningham by a Mail On Sunday investigation in 2008 which reported that he is a former public schoolboy from Bristol. The newspaper published a photograph taken in Jamaica in 2004 showing a man with a bag of spray cans by his feet - which was identified as Mr Gunningham. Banksy is also believed to have gone by the name Robin Banks, and in 2017 the DJ Goldie referred to him in an interview on the Distraction Pieces podcast as 'Rob'. And a BBC Radio 4 podcast called The Banksy Story out last year included a recording from 2003 when the artist was asked whether his name was 'Robert Banks', he replies: 'It's Robbie.' Advertisement

Footage showed a van with two men dressed in orange high-vis clothing and helmets.

One of the men, who is masked, is believed to have been Banksy, famed for his politically themed works.

Accompanied by a friend, he was seen in the back of the cherry picker with the two locked in conversation.

The footage was captured at about 5am yesterday.

A painting showing a goat balancing on top of some masonry appeared on the exterior wall of an engineering company near Kew Bridge that morning.

Bosses from Boss & Co, which builds exclusive guns, told MailOnline they noticed the new artwork when they arrived for work.

An official said: 'We noticed the artwork first thing in the morning and assumed it must be a Banksy.

'Then we checked our security footage and saw the two men.

'They then pushed our security camera up and you can't see them after that.

'It happened around 5am and they were there for about half an hour.'

The painting of the elephant was painted on a building owned by Shabir Chowdhary, the managing partner of an asset management company RYSE.

The silhouette of a goat was painted on top of a ledge with rocks falling down below it, and appears on the exterior wall of exclusive gunmakers Boss & Co.
Shamima Begum is planning to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights to challenge the removal of her British citizenship, her lawyers revealed today.

The jihadi bride's legal team intend to go to Strasbourg after she lost her final bid in the UK when justices at London's Supreme Court ruled she could not appeal again.

The 24-year-old lost an appeal last year against the decision to revoke her citizenship on national security grounds at the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC).

Her citizenship was revoked after she was found in a Syrian refugee camp following travelling to the country as a 15-year-old to join the Islamic State group in 2015.

Today, justices at the UK's highest court said Begum  who lived in Bethnal Green, East London - could not appeal again after she lost a Court of Appeal bid in February.

Shamima Begum, pictured in BBC programme The Shamima Begum Story in February 2023

The then 21-year-old speaks to ITV from the al-Roj prison camp in Syria in September 2021

In a Syrian refugee camp, aged 19, being shown a copy of the Home Office letter which stripped her of her British citizenship, in a grab from an ITV broadcast in February 2019

In their decision, Lords Reed, Hodge and Lloyd-Jones denied Begum the green light to go to the Supreme Court, finding her proposed grounds for appeal 'do not raise an arguable point of law'.

How Shamima Begum's dream of joining ISIS saw her exiled 2015 February 17 - Kadiza Sultana, Amira Abase and Shamima Begum leave their East London homes to travel to Istanbul from Gatwick. Begum and Abase are reported missing by their families later the same day.

- Kadiza Sultana, Amira Abase and Shamima Begum leave their East London homes to travel to Istanbul from Gatwick. Begum and Abase are reported missing by their families later the same day. February 18 - Sultana is reported missing to the police.

- Sultana is reported missing to the police. February 20 - The Metropolitan Police launch a public appeal for information on the missing girls who are feared to have gone on to Syria. The Met fears they have joined ISIS.

- The Metropolitan Police launch a public appeal for information on the missing girls who are feared to have gone on to Syria. The Met fears they have joined ISIS. February 21 - Four days after the girls went missing, police believe they may still be in Turkey. 2016 August 2016 - Sultana, then 17, is reported to have been killed in Raqqa in May when a suspected Russian air strike obliterates her house. 2019 February 13 - Begum, then 19, says she wants to return to the UK to give birth to her third child.

- Begum, then 19, says she wants to return to the UK to give birth to her third child. February 15 - Home Secretary Sajid Javid says he 'will not hesitate' to prevent the return of Britons who travelled to join ISIS.

- Home Secretary Sajid Javid says he 'will not hesitate' to prevent the return of Britons who travelled to join ISIS. February 17 - Begum gives birth to her third child - a baby boy, Jarrah - in Al-Hawl. Her two other children, a daughter called Sarayah and a son called Jerah, both previously died.

- Begum gives birth to her third child - a baby boy, Jarrah - in Al-Hawl. Her two other children, a daughter called Sarayah and a son called Jerah, both previously died. February 19 - The Home Office sends Begum's family a letter stating that it intends to revoke her British citizenship.

- The Home Office sends Begum's family a letter stating that it intends to revoke her British citizenship. February 20 - Begum, having been shown a copy of the Home Office's letter by ITV News, describes the decision as 'unjust'.

- Begum, having been shown a copy of the Home Office's letter by ITV News, describes the decision as 'unjust'. February 22 - Begum's family write to Mr Javid asking for his help to bring her newborn son to Britain

- Begum's family write to Mr Javid asking for his help to bring her newborn son to Britain Late February - Begum is moved to the Al-Roj camp in north-eastern Syria, reportedly because of threats to her life made at Al-Hawl following the publication of media interviews.

- Begum is moved to the Al-Roj camp in north-eastern Syria, reportedly because of threats to her life made at Al-Hawl following the publication of media interviews. March 7 - Jarrah dies around three weeks after he was born.

- Jarrah dies around three weeks after he was born. March 19 - Begum's lawyers file a legal action challenging the decision to revoke her citizenship.

- Begum's lawyers file a legal action challenging the decision to revoke her citizenship. April 1 - Begum says she was 'brainwashed' and that she wants to 'go back to the UK for a second chance to start my life over again'.

- Begum says she was 'brainwashed' and that she wants to 'go back to the UK for a second chance to start my life over again'. May 4 - Bangladesh says Begum could face the death penalty if she goes to the country

- Bangladesh says Begum could face the death penalty if she goes to the country September 29 - Home Secretary Priti Patel says there is 'no way' she will let Begum return to the UK

- Home Secretary Priti Patel says there is 'no way' she will let Begum return to the UK October 22-25 - Begum's appeal against the revocation of her British citizenship begins in London. 2020 February 7 - Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) rules on Begum's legal challenge,

- Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) rules on Begum's legal challenge, July 16 - Court of Appeal rules on the case and finds in Begum's favour.

- Court of Appeal rules on the case and finds in Begum's favour. November 23 - Supreme Court hears case. 2021 February 26 - Supreme Court denies her right to enter UK to fight for British citizenship. 2022 November - At a five-day hearing at the SIAC, Begum's lawyers argue she was a child trafficking victim. 2023 February 22 - Begum loses her appeal to the SIAC against the bid to strip her of her British citizenship. 2024 February 23 - Court of Appeal judges dismiss Begum's appeal.

March 25 : Begum loses her initial bid to appeal at the Supreme Court.

August 8 : Justices rule she cannot appeal at the Supreme Court. Advertisement

The three justices said that there was no arguable challenge to the Court of Appeal's decision, including whether Begum should have been able to make representations to the then-Home Secretary before the removal of her citizenship.

After the decision was announced, a statement from her legal practice Birnberg Peirce sent to MailOnline said: 'It is a matter of the gravest concern that British women and children have been arbitrarily imprisoned in a Syrian camp for five years, all detained indefinitely without any prospect of a trial.

'All other countries in the UK's position have intervened and achieved the return of their citizens and their children.

'Two weeks ago the US State Department once again addressed the responsibility of countries to repatriate their nationals from the camps in north east Syria. The UK is now alone in its position.

'The UK courts have for five years offered no exit route despite the critical humanitarian crisis in the camps. Instead the Supreme Court has today left resolution to another court, this time in Strasbourg.

'Whilst on behalf of Ms Begum we, her lawyers, will take every possible legal step including to petition the European Court of Human Rights, this is an issue that can and should as the US urges, be resolved for all nationals by their own countries.'

Begum left London in February 2015, aged 15, and travelled with two school friends - Kadiza Sultana and Amira Abase - to Syria.

While there, Begum married an ISIS fighter and gave birth to three children, all of whom died as infants.

The British government took away Begum's citizenship on national security grounds in 2019, shortly after she was found in a detention camp in Syria.

She said the decision left her stateless  and it meant she was not able to return to Britain.

Begum argued the decision was unlawful, in part because British officials failed to properly consider whether she was a victim of trafficking.

But this argument was rejected by the SIAC specialist tribunal in February 2023.

She then went to the Court of Appeal, where her legal team argued that the government had failed to consider its legal duties to Begum as a potential victim of trafficking.

But the court ruled that the risk to national security took precedence.

The court also ruled that Begum had not been left stateless because she retained Bangladeshi citizenship through her mother.

Begum's lawyer told the SIAC hearing that her client had been 'influenced' along with her friends by a 'determined and effective' ISIS 'propaganda machine'.

The appeal court accepted that Begum 'may well have been influenced and manipulated by others', but added she could 'still have made a calculated decision to travel to Syria'.

Dismissing her Court of Appeal challenge in February, the Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr, said: 'It could be argued the decision in Ms Begum's case was harsh.

'It could also be argued that Ms Begum is the author of her own misfortune, but it is not for this court to agree or disagree with either point of view.

'The only task of the court was to assess whether the deprivation decision was unlawful. Since it was not, Ms Begum's appeal is dismissed.'

In March, Court of Appeal judges rejected Begum's initial bid to take her case to the Supreme Court.

Around 900 people are estimated to have travelled from Britain to Syria and Iraq to join ISIS.

Of those, around 150 are believed to have been stripped of their citizenship, according to government figures.

In 2021, Begum was interviewed by Good Morning Britain and begged for forgiveness and insisted she was a victim - not a terrorist or a criminal.

'No one can hate me more than I hate myself for what I've done, and all I can say is I'm sorry and just give me a second chance', she said, before adding she was 'groomed and taken advantage of and manipulated'.

Today, Maya Foa, the joint executive director of legal action group Reprieve, told MailOnline: 'If Shamima Begum has committed crimes, she can be charged and prosecuted in a British court.

The three school friends at Gatwick Airport on their way to Syria in February 2015 - Shamima Begum is pictured right

Shamima Begum travelled to Syria as a 15-year-old to join the Islamic State group

Begum's Dutch jihadi husband Yago Riedijk, who is in prison in Syria - he met with the 15-year-old for 10 minutes before they decided to marry when he was 21

'The UK is more than capable of handling the case of a 15-year-old schoolgirl who was groomed online by an organised trafficking operation.

'Court of Appeal judges recognised that Shamima Begum had her citizenship stripped for political reasons, not on the basis of national security, but concluded they were not able to check the extreme powers currently wielded by the Home Secretary.

'The Supreme Court has now agreed that, in practice, stripping Ms Begum's citizenship leaves her stateless, but similarly cannot act to fix this political problem.

'Exiling British nationals like Ms Begum is about politics, not the law. The prior government's failed do-nothing approach must be abandoned.

'Our politicians should take responsibility and repatriate the small number of British families in this position so their cases can be dealt with here in Britain.'

Begum, then aged 15, was filmed on CCTV walking through a security gate at Gatwick in 2015

Lord Chief Justice Dame Sue Carr, during a live broadcast at the Court of Appeal in London on February 23 this year where she announced that Begum had lost her challenge

And Steve Valdez-Symonds, Amnesty International UK's refugee and migrant rights director, said: 'It's deeply concerning that the Supreme Court has concluded there's no point of law to be considered on such a serious matter as stripping a British person of her citizenship - particularly when that was done on the back of her being exploited as a 15-year-old child.

'Stripping Shamima Begum's nationality was profoundly wrong - she is and has always been British.

'Begum is now exiled in dangerous and inhuman conditions, along with thousands of other people, including women and children, in north-east Syria.

'The UK should follow others by taking responsibility for nationals stranded in Syria - including by assisting in their safe return to the UK, whether or not that means facing possible criminal investigation or prosecution on their return.'

A Home Office spokesman said: It would be inappropriate to comment further.
A Colorado Springs man has filed a $100m lawsuit against a police officer he says tased him and left paralyzed for life.

Jacob Root, 27, has filed the claim against Officer Robert Comstock over the 2022 incident - which happened after Root hit an unmarked cop cruiser with a stolen car, according to police.

Bodycam footage shows the moment Root was zapped with a taser and fell off the curb, his head and breaking his neck as he tried to flee the scene.

Root and his lawyers say the fall during the arrest left him a a quadriplegic.

'That officer pretty much made a choice for me to be a prisoner in my body,' Root said, per KKTV.

Jacob Root has filed a $100million lawsuit against Officer Robert Comstock over the 2022 incident which happened after he hit an unmarked cop cruiser with a stolen car, according to police

'Id rather have gone to prison than be in this chair,' he added. 'I was free and now Im stuck.'

In the federal lawsuit, filed in May, Root claims he is not independent and relies on others to feed himself.

Colorado Springs police, on their part, have said they are standing by the results of two internal probes that exonerated officer Comstock of any wrongdoing.

The department said in a statement: 'Officer Comstock is a valued employee and is in good standing with the department.'

Bodycam footage shows the moment Root was hit with a taser and fell off the curb, hitting his head and braking his neck as he tried to flee the scene

Root and his lawyers say the fall during the arrest left him a a quadriplegic

Police officers first made contact with Root after they located a stolen car outside as Super 8 Motel and put a tracking device on it, per Fox 21.

Officers followed the car to another location before trying to keep it from leaving the parking lot by blocking its path with a cruiser.

But Root managed to get around the police car while damaging it.

Police did not pursue the car but tracked it to a gas station, where they saw Root exit the vehicle and go into the convenience store.

Root took off running as he came out and saw the officers.

His attorneys claim he was 'running down the elevated slope dividing the gas station from the sidewalk on Airport Road. The slope dividing the gas station from the sidewalk was covered in dirt and uneven rocks.'

The lawsuit claims Root did not follow police policy when he did not specifically warn Root that he would use the stunt gun, and also for using it while Root was on an uneven surface.
A civil engineering student and aspiring urban planning expert has named what he considers to be the worst motorway in Australia.

Sharath Mahendran has awarded the unwanted distinction to the notorious Mount Ousley Road in Wollongong, south of Sydney, on his popular YouTube channel Building Beautifully.

Mr Mahendran, 22, cited the road's tight curves, dangerous at-grade intersections and the 'most confusing interchange in the country'.

He went as far as branding Mount Ousley Road a 'fake motorway'.

'Yes, it's signed the M1 - the 'M' is only granted to motorways in NSW,' he explained to his 43,000 subscribers.

'But make no mistake. Mount Ousley Road is just a normal road pretending to be a motorway.'

The road's origins date back to 1942, when it was built up as a WWII defence route, designed to make it easier to get from Sydney to the Illawarra region if the Japanese invaded.

The student explained how the road was added to over the years, including the 1964 and 1975 works to join the road with the F6 at its southern and northern ends.

A civil engineering student and budding urban planning expert has named what he considers as the worst road in Australia (pictured)

Mr Mahendran described the Bulli Tops interchange at the northern end as the most confusing interchange he has ever seen.

'There are a grand total of five roads that interact with this interchange,' he continued.

'But on top of that, there's also a restaurant, a lookout and a tourist centre here - because those definitely belong on a motorway!'

The 16-minute video, which is presented in a humorous style that has garnered him tens of thousands of followers, goes on to explain the many confusing aspects of Mount Ousley Road.

These include what he calls the 'random' joining of the old Princes Highway to a southbound carriageway and the right-side placement of the Princes Highway exit onto Appin Road.

Then there is the way the carriageway splits going northbound, so drivers wanting to stay on the M1 must technically take an exit.

Mr Mahendran (pictured) said 'Mount Ousley Road is just a normal road pretending to be a motorway.'

Mr Mahendran did find some positive words things to say about the road.

'To be clear, (Bulli Tops) interchange isn't that confusing to actually drive on. It's signed fairly well,' he said.

'But from a planner's and an engineer's perspective, it makes almost no sense that it exists in this form.

'The fact that he carriageways split apart so much and that Appin Road seems to randomly take priority for much of the interchange seems to hint at what was once planned here.'

The video has attracted almost 50,000 viewers and hundreds of comments

'I can't believe Mt Ousley Rd has been lying to us this whole time. I trusted it when it said it was a motorway. Pure betrayal,' one viewer wrote

Sharath Mahendran said Bulli Tops interchange (pictured) at the northern end is 'the most confusing interchange' he had ever seen

Another said they 'used to live close to the bottom interchange. Still remember dad driving us home, turning right, across the southbound lanes'.

Others pointed out even more faults with the 'fake motorway'.

'Mt Ousley Road also obliterates pedestrian (i.e., hiker; also mountain bike) access along the top of the escarpment (parts of it really are quite lovely up there, away from the roads) at Clive Bissel Drive,' one viewer commented.

Another said they had 'driven this road a number of times to/from Wollongong and have never been able to understand it'.
Donald Trump appears elated that Vice President Kamala Harris picked progressive Tim Walz as her running mate rather than those he sees as more formidable candidates.

The former president slammed every network except for Fox News for trying to turn Harris into a media darling and went after her for refusing to take an interview or hold a press conference in the 17 days since entering the race.

Speaking with the three co-hosts on Fox & Friends Tuesday morning, Trump said he plans to face Harris in at least one debate and hopes his favorite network is able to run the show. He also said the vice president is afraid to face him in a debate.

Harris announced on Tuesday that Minnesota Gov. Walz joined her campaign after narrowing down her decision to a handful of middle-aged, white, male politicians.

'I would say my reaction is I can't believe it,' Trump said in his first interview since the announcement. 'I never thought this was going to be the one that was picked.'

Donald Trump called into Fox & Friends on Wednesday morning for his first interview reacting to the news of Vice President Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate

'He's a very, very liberal man and he's a shocking man. And I could not be more thrilled,' the former president said.

'He's a smarter version of her, if you want to know the truth,' Trump added. 'He is moreso [progressive] than Bernie Sanders This is a ticket that would want this country to go communist immediately, if not sooner.'

Some other potential VP picks included more moderate contenders like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and others.

Trump thinks Shapiro was not selected because he is Jewish.

'This is a shocking pick and I think it's very insulting to Jewish people.'

'This is a really bad decision for the country,' Trump said. 'You know, ultimately I want the country to have good decisions.'

Walz appeared alongside Harris for their first joint rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Tuesday evening

President Joe Biden ended his reelection campaign on July 21 after weeks of pressure to exit the race amid a very glaring, public cognitive decline.

Harris immediately took over Biden's campaign infrastructure and has since been on a campaign blitz across the 2024 swing states.

Trump thinks that liberal media outlets are trying to turn Harris into the 'liberal version' of iconic British conservative margaret thatcher, who was Prime Minister through the 1980s.

'She is incompetent,' Trump insisted of Harris. 'They say 'well, look, the press is going to do whatever we want.' The media, outside of you people, of course, but the media is so  they are drying to build her up to the next Margaret Thatcher, liberal version.'

'And I don't believe it's going to happen.'

The vice president has not held a press conference or sat down for an interview since stepping into the limelight 17 days ago.

Some are wondering how she will perform once she is no longer scripted or operating off prepared remarks or a teleprompter.

Trump insists he will debate Kamala Harris, but says she is afraid to face him  and slammed the VP for not sitting down for an interview since entering the race

'I hear she hasn't taken one interview,' Trump said in his Fox call-in on Wednesday. 'She would never do an interview like this, that I can guarantee  with any network.'

'She doesn't do interviews because she can't answer questions,' he added.

'I don't know how she debates, I hear she's sort of a nasty person, but not a good debater,' the former president said. 'But we'll see because we'll be debating her, I guess, in the pretty near future. It's going to be announced fairly soon. But we'll be debating her. I'd like to see it on Fox, by the way.'

Trump insisted: 'I'd love to see it on Fox but it takes two to tango. She doesn't want to debate. She wants to say I don't want to debate but I do want to debate.'
La Paz, Aug 7 (UNI) Bolivian President Luis Arce on Tuesday proposed holding a referendum on presidential re-election, distribution of seats in the Legislative Assembly (Congress) and fuel subsidies.

"Difficult moments require firm, mature, thoughtful decisions and human beings who do not falter in the face of adversity," the president said in a speech marking the 199th anniversary of Bolivia's independence, in Sucre, a city in southern Chuquisaca department.

Issues having to do with fuel supply and a shortage of dollars "are being used politically by some groups to create unrest," said Arce, adding he would rather see the people decide "whether or not we maintain the subsidy" for hydrocarbons.

Another issue that could be put to a vote is the distribution of seats in the Legislative Assembly, currently made up of 36 senators and 130 deputies.

"I am convinced that the wisdom of the people will be the guarantee that allows us to overcome the obstacles that we now face and that without a doubt we will overcome together facing the Bicentennial," said Arce.

UNI/XINHUA ARN
Vladimir Putin has declared that Ukraine carried out a 'large-scale provocation' following a daring surprise assault on Russia's border region of Kursk.

Ukrainian authorities have ordered the evacuation of thousands of people in that area where Kyiv's troops launched the attack.

'As you know, the Kyiv regime has undertaken another large-scale provocation,' Putin said in a televised meeting with government officials.

'It is firing indiscriminately from various types of weapons, including rockets, at civilian buildings, residential houses and ambulances.'

Ukraine's regional governor Volodymyr Artyukh said in a statement: 'I have just signed the order to introduce a mandatory evacuation of 23 settlements from five communities in the Sumy district.'

Vladimir Putin has declared that Ukraine carried out a 'large-scale provocation' following a daring surprise assault

A heavily damaged building in the region, which borders Ukraine, after Tuesday's incursion

Damage in the town of Sudzha on August 6 following Ukrainian shelling, according to Smirnov

He added that the measure applied to roughly '6,000 people, including 425 children.'

Moscow has said it had sent reserves to help repel hundreds of Ukrainian fighters backed by tanks, in a ground incursion that is shaping up to be one the largest into Russian territory during the war.

On Tuesday, the Russian army and security agencies were wrong footed by a breakthrough on the Kursk region frontier, which had been guarded by lightly armed conscripts, several of whom were captured.

The Russian defence ministry announced it had deployed air and artillery firepower to try to quash Ukrainian troops breaking into the Kursk border region.

'The operation for the destruction of Ukrainian army units is continuing,' the defence ministry said on social media Wednesday.

'The enemy's movement further into Russian territory has been prevented,' it added.

Heavy clashes are expected today as forces from Ukraine - possibly both army and anti-Putin Russian partisans - seek to press deeper into the region.

Kursk regional governor Alexei Smirnov said 'several thousand' people had been evacuated from the region and all mass gatherings had been cancelled.

'Over the course of the last day, with our help, several thousand people left the shelling zone by personal transport,' Smirnov said in a video message on Telegram.

But he added: 'The situation in the region is under control'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged to support the region 'on all fronts', he said in the video.

Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the incursion, the most serious in months.

Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak alluded to the attacks, on social media, without specifically mentioning them. Moscow had used its 'border regions with impunity for massive air and artillery attacks', he said.





President Vladimir Putin pictured during his meeting with ministers at Novo-Ogaryovo State Residence in Moscow

There were a flurry of warnings today that Ukraine may intend the audacious capture or encirclement of Kursk Nuclear Power Plant (NPP)

Ukraine launched the incursion across the Russian border around 5am GMT on Tuesday

Official Russian social media accounts said up to 300 Ukrainian fighters, backed by tanks, had attacked border units in two localities in Kursk - Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya.

Moscow lost two Ka-52 helicopters - one suspected downed by an FPV drone was shown burning, as Moscow, which daily bombards Ukrainian civilians and territory, raged against a 'terrorist attack'.

Overnight, the region was hit with waves of drone attacks, according to the local governor, with defence systems destroying at least five.

Five people were killed and 28 wounded, and the surprise incursion has reportedly forced Russian authorities to evacuate several border settlements.

The defence ministry said there had been losses on the Ukrainian side of 260 soldiers and 50 armoured vehicles, including seven tanks and eight armoured personnel carriers.

There were a flurry of warnings today that Ukraine's intention behind the unprecedented thrust into Russian territory may be to capture or encircle the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant (NPP).

Such an audacious plan could then use it as a bargaining chip to negotiate with Putin about ceding control of Zaporizhzhia NPP - held by Russia since the start of the war.

Videos reportedly showed the overnight shelling of Kurchatov, the town around the Kursk atomic plant, some 31 miles in a straight line - but further by road - from the Ukrainian incursion across the border.

'Nuclear blackmail,' posted Dmitry Rogozin, a senator who was previously Putin's deputy prime minister and head of the Russian Space Agency.

'This is something that all the world's media will definitely trumpet about. That's what they [the Ukrainians] are counting on.'

He demanded a ruthless response to wipe out Ukrainians crossing the frontier.

Smoke billows on the Kursk border region as Russia claimed Ukraine had launched an assault

War correspondent Yuri Kotenok posted: 'The nuclear power plant in Kurchatov is an object that has long been the object of desire of the Ukrainian military elite and their curators.'

Despite the warnings, in posts on the Telegram messaging app, the acting governor of the southwestern Russian region, insisted the situation was 'controllable.'

Ukraine launched several waves of drones, prompting at least a dozen air raid alerts over the past 24 hours, Alexei Smirnov's posts stated.

Five people were killed, including two ambulance crew, with at least 20 wounded, among them six children, in the fighting that erupted on Tuesday, Russian officials said.

Ukraine made no official comment, though there was evidence of some military action from its side of the border. Both Kyiv and Moscow say their attacks do not target civilians.

The Ukrainian army 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.

The breakthrough into Russia highlighted how Putin had lied to his people over not sending raw conscripts to the war zone and border areas.

Damage to buildings allegedly caused during a Ukrainian attack over the border on Tuesday

Social media footage shows a truck on fire after the Kursk region border incursion on Tuesday

Several Russian conscripts were shown on videos after they were captured at border points.

One, Danil Kolesnikov, 22, a private, served in regiment 488, was held guarding the border at Sudzha.

'I was taken prisoner by Ukrainian troops at the border crossing,' he said, indicating that he - like others - had been abandoned by their commanders.

Asked by his Ukrainian captors his feelings about Putin and his war, the conscript said: 'Well, of course war is always a ****ed up ******* thing. It's always bad.

'Especially, in my own Belgorod region so many corpses, all the s*** it's not supported.'

Another Maxim Emelyanin, 21, from the distant Komi republic in the far north of Russia, said the conscripts had demanded to be taken away from the border point in line with Putin's promise on the deployment of conscripts.

But they were left there. Asked if they were abandoned, he said: 'It goes like this.'

He was asked: 'How do you feel about your superiors?' He replied: 'Negative.'

'How do you feel about the war in Ukraine?' to which he said: 'I have a negative attitude towards the war.

'And Putin?' they asked. 'Putin? I don't know.'

He said he did 'not exactly' support what his president was doing, adding: 'I had been avoiding the army altogether [but was conscripted in the end].'

Social media footage shows damage to a residential building in the region

Pictures shared after yesterday's border breakthrough show damage to buildings

Another theory is that Ukraine may seek to disrupt Russian gas exports via Kursk region.

Reports indicated that Ukraine had occupied the settlements of Daryevka, Gogolevka, and Sverdlikovo.=

The border town of Sudzha was badly blitzed with most residents evacuating.

Administrative and residential buildings and the infectious diseases department of the city hospital were damaged, reported Izvestia.

Previously, forces describing themselves as voluntary paramilitaries fighting on Ukraine's side inflicted minimal damage in a major incursion into parts of Belgorod and Kursk region this year, but the purpose of the raids remains unclear.

On Tuesday, Ukraine's general staff made no mention of any Ukrainian offensive operation inside Russia.

Throughout the more than two years of war, Ukraine's efforts have largely been focused on fighting back Russian forces who control nearly a fifth of its territory 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 five-year-old autistic boy was found dead in a canal after he disappeared from his fifth birthday party in Idaho.

Matthew Glynn Merten, of Boise, who is nonverbal, was last seen at his home on Alamosa Street on Monday wearing Batman pajamas before he wandered away, according to the Boise Police Department.

A day later, police believe they have found his body in the canal approximately a half mile from his home with 'no signs of foul play,' they said in a Facebook post.

The Ada County Coroners Office will make an official identification and the police are still investigating the incident.

'We are heartbroken over this development today. The water was initially our biggest concern and a large focus of our efforts,' Boise Police Chief Ron Winegar said in a statement.

Matthew Glynn Merten, of Boise, who is nonverbal, was last seen at his home on Alamosa Street on Monday wearing Batman pajamas before he wandered away, according to the Boise Police Department

A day later, police believe they have found his body in the canal approximately a half mile from his home with 'no signs of foul play'

'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.'

Boise Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer said: '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.'

A large search party had been sent out, including the use of drones, K9s and UTVs around 6 pm.

Around 30 personnel were involved, and they played 'Wheels on the Bus' through speakers and used flashing lights hopefully to attract the young boy, ABC 7 said.

Merten gravitated toward water and was scared of dogs, his mother told police, according to Lyla's House.

The Ada County Coroners Office will make an official identification and the police are still investigating the incident

Police said the mother, who was not identified, was 'distraught' over the the loss of her son, and the police have personnel who are helping her cope through the tragedy, according to Idaho News 6.

The mother is also caring for her two-year-old son who is also autistic.

Lyla's House, a nonprofit, started a GoFundMe for the family to help assist with bills, food, and funding a memorial for the youngster.

'Whatever they need. Anything helps them be able to focus their hearts and heal,' the organization wrote on the fundraiser, which garnered $715 toward its $50,000 goal.

A MealTrain has also been started for the family, which has raised more than $2,000 in donations and several weeks worth of meals.
Department stores are diminishing in the retail space, but landlords are finding success in adding experience-based attractions such as ritzy food halls to bring in visitors.

Sales at department stores fell last year and fell flat in the first five months of 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

One of America's biggest department stores - JCPenney - faced falling sales and announced it is shutting down four locations last week.

Now landlords - like the owners of Legacy West in Plano, Texas - are opting to turn their retail spaces into food halls to attract more customers and designer retailers who want to set up shop.

'We said, "Instead of going after a department store, let's do something that's more fun and more interesting and that will drive a lot of traffic,"' Mark Masinter, a partner on the Legacy West food hall project, told The Wall Street Journal.

Major department stores - such as JCPenney - continue to close as sales fall flat in the first five months of 2024

Now landlords - like the owners of Legacy West (inset) in Plano, Texas - are opting to turn their retail spaces experienced based attractions such as ritzy food halls to bring in visitors

Prism Places, the owners of Legacy West, said since they opened the food hall in 2017 they now draw in 30,000 visitors a week and luxury brands like Louis Vuitton have opened up stores in the space.

'Young customers aren't shopping at malls and they aren't shopping department stores in the same way they used to,' said Stenn Parton, Prism's chief executive.

The Legacy West food hall offers over two dozen bars and restaurants, live music and a brewery.

Real estate experts predict the future of retail spaces will follow in Legacy Wests footsteps.

'My guess is there will be a lot fewer department stores 10 years from now,' Donald Bouchard, a property appraiser specializing in retail at Lincoln Property Company's Boston office, told The Journal.

Real estate experts predict the future of retail spaces will follow in Legacy Wests footsteps as department stores continue to close

Since the Legacy West food hall (pictured) in 2017 they now draw in 30,000 visitors a week and luxury brands like Louis Vuitton have opened up stores in the space

Earlier this year, Macy's announced plans to close 150 underperforming stores over the next three years, leaving just 350 stores operational by 2026.

According to real-estate firm Green Street major department stores now occupy less than half of all anchor spaces in shopping malls.

In Minnesota, the Burnsville Center was dubbed 'the emptiest mall in the Twin Cities,' according to the StarTribune.

Then in 2022 the dying shopping center was acquired by the Chicago-based Windfall Group, in partnership with Pacifica Burnsville who planned to revitalize the space.

Now, a 13,000 square foot food hall called Ate Ate Ate with nine vendors, a bar and beer wall and an event space is in the first phase of development.
A drunk 'lawyer' was arrested after allegedly abusing staff at a California restaurant, with one patron resorting to having a standoff with her.

The unknown woman was caught on camera arguing with one other patron, Kay Breann, of the Bravo Farms restaurant in Visalia, California.

Breann shared a video that was captured of her talking with the woman, who she claimed was 'drunk and belligerent' towards staff.

According to Breann, the woman was arrested by officers following the altercation she had with the woman - causing the whole restaurant to cheer.

In one final blow, a man filming the confrontation between the two can be heard critiquing the woman's outfit.

The unknown woman was caught on camera arguing with one other patron, Kay Breann, right

Two police officers can then be seen arriving on the scene, who immediately approach the woman

The woman can be heard repeatedly saying that she is a lawyer to Breann, who stands defiantly in her face.

Breann tells her: 'You will not intimidate anyone on my dime. You will not. You better act right.'

The unknown man recording the video can be heard adding: 'How embarrassing for your firm, if you are a lawyer.'

The woman replies: 'How embarrassing for your everything', causing the man to pan up and down her outfit and hilariously say: 'We've got this, with those shoes'.

Two police officers can then be seen arriving on the scene, who immediately approach the woman.

Breann tells her 'you gotta go', before leaving. The woman then continues her tirade telling the officers: 'This is inappropriate, this customer service is inappropriate'.

The man continues recording and offering commentary, saying: 'You're a** is going to jail you psycho b*****. How embarrassing. Trash, trash, trash.'

In a follow up video, Breann adds that the woman was indeed arrested by officers inside the restaurant to the delight of fellow patrons.

In her video she offered some back story, claiming the woman had been drinking at the bar of the restaurant and had been asked to leave after staff cut her off.

Breann added: 'She started taking it out on the staff and on the customers. Shoulder checking people, filing herself, claiming that [the restaurant] was dirty.

In a follow up video, Breann, seen here, adds that the woman was indeed arrested by officers inside the restaurant to the delight of fellow patrons

The incident happened inside of a Bravo Farms restaurant in Visalia, California, pictured here

'[Claiming] she's an attorney, she's gonna shut the place down, just being a nuisance and being a pain.

'I sat at my table until things started to escalate, and she started to get more and more agitated, more aggressive.

'And then when she was asked to leave by a staff member. She tried to physically assault this person.

'So the staff were scared. You can tell that they were concerned. They were worried that, oh my gosh, is something going to happen to me, and that's where I stepped in.

'Cops came, got her, arrested her, everybody in the restaurant cheered and clapped for them. They were phenomenal. They took care of the situation.'

She also claimed that the woman has since been identified and people have been messaging her saying she has done this previously.

DailyMail.com has approached Visalia Police Department for comment on the video.
Childcare workers will finally receive a significant 15 per cent wage increase after the federal government agreed to foot the bill, but it falls short of what unions wanted.

The key increase for one of the lowest paid sectors facing staff shortages will be phased in over two years, starting with a 10 per cent increase from December.

A further 5 per cent increase will be in place from December 2025.

The government will fund the pay increase, and limit the fee increases childcare centres can impose to ensure the new costs won't be passed on to families.

The government's $3.6billion investment 'recognises the vital role that the workers play preparing children for school.

The Prime Minister will announce the decision in Sydney on Thursday, saying early educators 'shape lives and change lives'.

'We can never thank them enough for what they do - but we can make sure they are properly valued and fairly paid. Today our government is doing just that,' Mr Albanese will say.

'Giving the next generation the best start in life is essential. Today we deliver fair pay for the people who make this possible.'

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the pay increase would ensure fair pay for early childcare workers important sector. He's pictured at a Brisbane childcare centre last month

A typical early childhood educator who is paid at the award rate will receive a pay rise of at least $103 per week, increasing to at least $155 per week from December 2025.

ECEC workers are some of the most important workers in the country and they deserve to be paid properly.

But the announcement is unlikely to satisfy unions.

In March, United Workers Union early learning director Carolyn Smith called for the federal government to fund a full 25 per cent pay rise for childcare staff, costing an estimated $2.3billionn a year.

Ms Smith said at the time low wages were forcing childcare staff to leave for better-paying jobs, leaving many childcare centres short-staffed and having to turn away children.
Donald Trump celebrated being '24-24' in his endorsements after Tuesday night's primaries in Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, and Washington.

Trump endorsed multiple candidates running for the same job, an unusual move that ultimately paid off for the former president.

In the Missouri attorney general race, incumbent Andrew Bailey fended off a fiery challenge from Trump attorney Will Scharf Tuesday night. Trump had endorsed both 'outstanding' Republican candidates last week.

And in the gubernatorial primary to replace term-limited Governor Mike Parson, one of the three total candidates Trump endorsed emerged victorious: Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe.

In Washington State, Trump had been trying to evict Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse from his seat. Newhouse is one the last elected members standing who voted to impeach Trump. The results of that race are not yet known.

Donald Trump celebrated being '24-24' in his endorsements after Tuesday night's primaries in Kansas , Michigan , Missouri , and Washington

It was the first time voters weighed in on Bailey's performance - he was appointed to the seat in 2022 after Eric Schmitt left for the Senate. With 95 percent of the votes counted, Bailey was leading Scharf 63 to 37 percent.

Trump curiously endorsed both Bailey and his attorney Scharf in the race.

'This victory is for the hardworking Missourians who have fought tirelessly alongside me over the past 18 months,' Bailey wrote on X in pronouncing victory. 'Your dedication and passion have been the driving force behind this incredible triumph. Together, we WILL keep Missouri strong, safe, and free.'

Scharf, meanwhile, conceded and endorsed Bailey.

'Tonight we came up short. We always knew that challenging an incumbent and the Jefferson City establishment would be difficult, and despite the tremendous grassroots energy around our campaign Andrew Bailey has certainly earned a full term in office. He has my unqualified support in the general election, and I hope that he will do Missouri proud in the coming years.'

Both of Missouri's senators, Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, congratulated Bailey on his win.

Despite almost no daylight policy-wise between Scharf and Bailey, the race has become so intense that it is now one of the most expensive down-ballot races in the country at nearly $20 million.

Attorney General Andrew Bailey is defending his seat

Trump attorney Will Scharf launched a primary challenge to Bailey for Missouri AG

'These two men are truly outstanding in every way, shape, and form,' Trump wrote in his Truth Social endorsemenr. 'I am honored to give both Andrew Bailey and Will Scharf my Complete and Total Endorsement  NEITHER ONE WILL EVER LET YOU DOWN!'

Bailey's record on crime is in the spotlight in a new ad and mailers being funded by a political action committee supporting Scharf.

It blames Bailey for the death of police officer Mason Griffith, who was shot and killed in the line of duty in March 2023 at age 34.

Now, the widow of the slain cop is demanding that her late husband be left out of the contentious campaign as she raises two young sons.

Jennifer Griffith says the ads have sent her family spiraling once again and is demanding they cease.

'They're hitting this pretty hard,' Griffith told DailyMail.com, adding that she's received three mail ads, countless phone calls, surveys and text messages with videos exploiting her husband's death.

'I have to explain to my son every time he sees a commercial on TV why Kenneth Simpson's face is on TV,' she added, referring to her husband's alleged killer.

Alleged cop killer Kenneth Simpson had a long history of run-ins with the police beginning in 2004. He spent the next decade in and out or prison, according to court records.

The ad primarily hits Bailey for his time as assistant prosecutor in Warren County in 2017 when he handled multiple cases involving Simpson.

Simpson was arrested, charged and released on bond multiple times in the fall of 2017 for allegedly punching his father in the face and possessing brass knuckles, two misdemeanors.

He ended up spending 10 days in jail for unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia under Bailey's prosecution. A judge sentenced him to another six months for unlawful possession of a weapon.

The pro-Scharf PAC's attack ads and mailers go on the offense against Bailey, saying Simpson's short sentences allowed him to commit more crimes.

'As a prosecutor, Bailey went easy on a violent career felon who once shot up a cop car,' the contentious ad states.

'Bailey knew that, and yet charged him with mere misdemeanors after he struck again, out within months,' the ad went on.

At the time of the shooting, Simpson had been out on bail for crimes that were being prosecuted after Bailey had left the prosecutor's office.

The widow of a slain cop in Missouri is demanding those backing Trump attorney Will Scharf, who is running for attorney general, stop throwing her late husband into the middle of his campaign

Kelly King, Bailey's successor in the Warren County prosecutor's office, claimed she had asked a judge to revoke Simpson's bail but was denied.

After his arrest for shooting Griffith, Simpson told police he was on the run for several warrants.He told them he believed he was going to die and decided to commit 'suicide by cop.'

He is accused of killing police officer Mason Griffith and wounding officer Adam Sullentrup.

Police said Simpson had six felony warrants out of Warren County and one misdemeanor warrant from Franklin County.

Bailey's team is accusing the pro-Scharf PAC of 'exploiting' the tragedy during the campaign.

Scharf, as a candidate, is prohibited from coordinating with PACs like Defend Missouri on messaging or strategy.
Residents on a Houston street say they are being terrorized by a neighbor from hell who abuses them 'for no apparent reason'.

Locals at Fondren Place Townhomes are living in fear of Daniel Atnafu, 38, who is facing criminal mischief charges.

Atnafu has been accused of slashing his neighbor's tires and even intimidating a USPS worker so badly that mail was not delivered on the street for two weeks.

Police have been called out to the at least eight times in the last six months, so far resulting in two separate charges.

Local man Leon Butler Jr. told ABC13 he is worried that the situation could escalate.

Residents on a Houston street say they are being terrorized by 'neighbor from hell' Danile Atnafu

'I am not afraid, but I know how to protect myself,' Butler said. 'I (have) to tell people, "Just stay out the way if you can."

'He threatened the mail carrier - that's why we just started getting our mail, but for two weeks, we couldn't get it,' Butler said. 'We had to go pick it up.'

A video taken on July 23 allegedly shows Atnafu confronting the postal worker and yanking on the door of his vehicle.

Court documents show he was charged with criminal mischief for 'jumping on the motor vehicle with his feet' and causing damage.

Additional filings show he was hit with a second charge for allegedly slashing a neighbor's tire.

The 38-year-old is facing criminal mischief charges after he was allegedly filmed threatening a postal worker

Atnafu also has another charge after he allegedly slashed a neighbor's tires

Residents of Fondren Place Townhomes say they are worried things could escalate

Another clip shows him angrily confronting a community courtesy patrol officer who is paid to park up on the street and watch over residents.

'You're going to park by my house?' Atnafu barks at the guard. 'How long have you been parked by my house? Do you have any guests here?'

The apartment block's owners said she has approached the police on numerous occasions but has been told that all residents can do is call 911 to report any incidents.

Locals have been left stumped by Atnafu's alleged behavior. A note pinned to his door states that trespassers 'will be dealt with'.

Atnafu's Linkedin states he is a Corporate Communications Specialist who attended Houston University.

His current job is listed as an installation technician for Digital Pro Audio and Video.

It is not yet clear if Atnafu has entered a plea. DailyMail.com has approached him for comment.
Maryland's GOP Senate candidate Larry Hogan is out with a new $2 million ad set to hit airwaves on Wednesday that puts his centrist bonafides on display - without fear of angering the right wing of his party.

The ad's opening shot is a clip of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and the words 'divisiveness' and 'gridlock.' The ad then cuts to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y.

It highlights Hogan's support for abortion rights and his opposition to 'extreme Project 2025' - a Heritage Foundation policy plan that has become a favorite line of attack for Democrats and even Trump himself has denounced.

The blueprint includes ideas like working to ban abortion and transgender people from the military.

'We can't heal our divide by electing the same partisan politicians,' the ad says. 'We need independent leaders who will stand up for us and Maryland, bringing sanity to a broken system.'

Maryland 's GOP Senate candidate Larry Hogan is out with a new $2 million ad set to hit airwaves on Wednesday that puts his centrist bonafides on display without fear of angering the right wing of his party

'Larry Hogan cut taxes, tolls and fees every year. Larry Hogan made housing and health care more affordable. He supports restoring women's right to choose, everywhere, and will fight the extreme Project 2025,' the ad goes on.

'It's time we put people over politics,' Hogan says at the end, calling to mind a favorite slogan from House Democrats.

The ad, funded by both the Hogan campaign and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Senate Republicans' campaign arm, will play on TV channels across Maryland.

Part of a dying breed of vocally anti-Trump Republicans, Hogan tells DailyMail.com in an interview Tuesday he's 'never really thought about parties.'

'I've always just tried to go out and meet people one-on-one and convince them that I was going to represent all the people in Maryland.'

Hogan served as governor of the state from 2015 to 2023. He was ranked third most popular governor in the country with an approval rating of nearly 70 percent in 2022 according to a Morning Consult poll. But his popularity had little down-ballot effect for Republicans as Maryland has become an increasingly blue state over the years.

Biden won it by 65 percent over Trump in 2020. And this year Democrat Angela Alsobrooks is leading Hogan in the Senate race 48 to 39 percent, according to a RealClearPolitics polling average.

Hogan pays little heed to polling, he says.

'The week of the election [in 2014] they said I was 12 points down. We won by five. So the only thing that matters is November.'

'I said I was an underdog, what I'm trying to do, it's never been done before, but I think we're gonna do it.'
Humza Yousaf has revealed Britain's riots crisis is making him unsure if his family should remain in the UK.

The former SNP leader, who was Scotland's first Muslim first minster, described the scenes of violence across towns and cities as 'horrendous'.

He said he had worried 'for some time' about rising Islamophobia in Britain and claimed the 'language of the far-right' had 'become institutionalised in our politics'.

Mr Yousaf replaced Nicola Sturgeon as Scotland's first minister in March last year, but quit in May after little more than a year in the job.

Humza Yousaf has revealed Britain's riots crisis is making him unsure if his family should remain in the UK

Mr Yousaf pictured with his wife Nadia El-Nakla, daughter Amal, and step-daughter Maya (left) in March last year. The couple welcomed the arrival of a baby girl last month

Tory leadership hopeful accused of 'textbook Islamophobia' over 'Allahu Akbar' comments

Tory leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick was today accused of 'textbook Islamophobia'. The former immigration minister sparked a fierce row after he criticised the policing of pro-Palestinian protests since the terror attacks on Israel on 7 October. Mr Jenrick told Sky News: 'I thought it was quite wrong that somebody could shout 'Allahu Akbar' on the streets of London and not be immediately arrested.' Labour MP Naz Shah accused the former Cabinet minister of 'complete ignorance' and pointed out that 'Allahu Akbar' translates as 'God is Great'. The Bradford West MP, who is vice-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for British Muslims, posted on X: 'This is complete ignorance and textbook Islamophobia from Robert Jenrick. 'It literally equates every Muslim in the world with extremism. 'He should apologise and speak to Muslim communities and learn more about our faith.' Advertisement

He told The News Agents podcast: 'You cut me open, I'm as about as Scottish as you come.

'But the truth of the matter is, I don't know whether the future for me and my wife and my three children is going to be here in Scotland or the United Kingdom.

'Or indeed in Europe and the West because I have for some time really worried about the rise of Islamophobia.'

Mr Yousaf hit out at politicians such as Tory former home secretary Suella Braverman and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.

He said rioters were 'going after people who are black, who are Asian, who are Muslim and that, again, comes back to some of the language that's been used far too often in our politics about people not adopting our values'.

Mr Farage has denied that his comments have contributed to the recent outbreak of violence on Britain's streets.

He instead claimed it was fuelled by the authorities not providing enough details about the identity of the suspect in last week's Southport stabbing attack.

Mr Yousaf's comments were echoed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who said 'black, brown and minority' people did not feel safe in some parts of the country.

In a series of tweets, Mr Khan said: 'Our communities are facing the threat of hatred  including violence  fuelled by insidious racism, prejudice, and Islamophobia.

'It's the legacy of decades of dog whistles, including from some irresponsible politicians.

'We all bear not just the responsibility, but also the duty to stand up to hate. To be vocal. To be allies to those who are being unjustly targeted  online and off.

'To our Black, Brown and minority communities: NEVER forget that you are loved and wanted in London.'
Progressive Squad member Cori Bush had an on-stage meltdown Tuesday after losing her reelection bid.

The progressive Democrat became the second Squad member to be taken down after a hotly-contested primary against a more moderate challenger who hammered Bush for supporting pro-Gaza protests.

Now, she is blaming her defeat on pro-Israel group AIPAC which put a whopping nearly $9 million to oust her, that she threatened to 'tear down.'

Her unhinged remarks came during a primary election watch party in St. Louis, Missouri, where she took a stage in front of supporters.

Pacing back and forth on the stage and speaking so loudly that the microphone shook, the former Black Lives Matter organizer condemned 'corporations' and AIPAC, charging them with orchestrating her ousting.

Defiantly, Bush told the crowd that now she is no longer bound to the decorum of Congress, and that now she had 'some of the strings [cut] off,' her opponents will 'see this other Cori, this other side.'

Squad member Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., lost her Democratic primary election to St. Louis-based prosecutor Wesley Bell. Addressing the crowd at her watch party following her defeat, she denounced pro-Israel group AIPAC for plotting against her and 'put all these corporations on notice' too

Then she screamed to loud applause an ominous warning: 'AIPAC, I'm coming to tear your kingdom down.'

'Pulling me away from my position as congresswoman, all you did was take some of the strings off,' she proclaimed.

'Let's be clear, let's be clear, let's be clear,' Bush chants over and over again, 'let's talk about what it really is.'

Meanwhile, AIPAC on Wednesday morning celebrated Bush's loss.

'AIPAC and our 4.5 million grassroots members were proud to help progressive pro-Israel leader Wesley Bell defeat anti-Israel Squad member Rep. Cori Bush last night,' the group posted on X.

'Being pro-Israel is good policy and good politics!'

The Missouri Democrat told the approving audience that she now needs to be feared that her tenure in Congress is winding down.

'As much as I love my job, all they did was radicalize me, so now they need to be afraid,' she said Tuesday night. 'They about to see this other Cori, this other side.'

'And let me put all of these corporations on notice: I'm coming after you too. But I'm not coming by myself. I'm coming with all the people that's in here.'

'I don't fear you,' she said. 'I don't fear anything ... so if this happened it was meant to happen.'

The Associated Press projected Bush's loss three hours after polls closed, while she trailed by about five points.

Bush thanks her supporters following her Democratic primary loss to St. Louis Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell. Bush is the first African-American woman to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives from Missouri

The crowd adored the fiery antics displayed by Bush at her campaign party Tuesday, loudly cheering and applauding for her as she threatened AIPAC and defiantly warned corporations

Wesley Bell addresses the crowd after winning the Democratic congressional primary against incumbent U.S. Rep. Cori Bush on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024 at the Marriott Grand Hotel in downtown St. Louis. Bush slammed Bell for his support from pro-Israel groups. AIPAC congratulated Bell on his victory Tuesday

Bush's remarks were so harsh it even earned her the scorn of the White House.

'This kind of rhetoric is inflammatory and divisive and incredibly unhelpful ... It is important to be mindful in what we say and how we say it,' White House Press Scretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Wednesday.

Bell, meanwhile, celebrated his victory over the Squad member.

'I am committed to serving the St. Louis region in Congress with integrity, transparency, and dedication,' Bell said in a statement after winning.

'Together, we will tackle the challenges ahead and build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.'

Another quad member, Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., similarly lost his primary to a more moderate Democrat earlier this summer.

Bush had faced millions in outside money dumped into her race from pro-Israel groups who opposed her staunch pro-Palestinian stance.

'Wesley Bell's victory and Cori Bush's defeat underscore what we've seen in races across the country and throughout this election cycle  being pro-Israel is not just wise policy, but also smart politics,' said Mark Mellman, chairman of the Democratic Majority for Israel PAC, in a statement.

Similar to Bush's race against Bell, Bowman's race in New York hinged on a key issue: the Israel-Hamas war.

(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

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.

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.

In Bush's race, AIPAC's affiliated political arm spent $8.5 million dollars, the AP reported.

In Bowman's race the pro-Israel group spent nearly $15 million.

Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., another member of the Squad who faces a tight reelection race, will have her primary next Tuesday.
A three-year-old girl has died after a golden retriever fell from the fifth floor of a residential building as she walked with her mother along a busy road in Mumbra, India yesterday.

Shocking CCTV footage shared on social media shows the dog plummet towards the ground and land on the girl with immense force, causing her to lose consciousness.

Her mother can be seen picking the young girl's limp body up from the ground as she starts to rush away from the scene, while onlookers assist her.

Meanwhile the golden retriever, which had landed on its back, can be seen struggling to get on its feet.

Once it finally gets up, its movements are slow and appears to be disoriented.

A four-year-old girl has died after a dog fell on her. The girl was captured walking with her mother on a busy street in Mumbra, India yesterday, just moments before her death

CCTV captures the moment the large dog plummets from a fifth floor onto the young child

The woman walks off with her child in her arms as she rushes her to the hospital. The small girl was declared dead shortly after

A local source said: 'Her mother quickly picked her up and, along with a few others, rushed her to the hospital as she had gone unconscious.

The small child was taken to Chhatrapati Shivaji Hospital in Kalwa and was later transferred to Kalsekar Hospital, but was later declared dead.

According to local police, it is suspected that the dog was thrown by someone from the building's terrace as the girl and her mother walked along the streets, but it is still trying to determine how it fell.

The police is currently investigating the incident.

According to local outlet Indian Express, the dog was severely injured and was taken to the vet for treatment.
Comedian Ben Stiller made a bizarre joke during an online fundraiser for Kamala Harris, first commenting on her heritage and then on his own.

He did so after calling the vice president and Democratic nominee a 'historic candidate.'

'It's going to be the first woman president and that's incredibly exciting. She's Indian, she's Black, she's everything. You can be more than one thing, it's incredible,' he said Monday.

Then, the child of two successful comedians spoke about his own ethnic background.

'You know, I'm Jewish and Irish,' he said. 'I wish I was Black. Every White Jewish guy wishes he was Black. You know, get out there and vote and donate and take advantage.'

The odd comment came at an online event called 'Comics for Kamala.' It was introduced by California Rep. Eric Swalwell, and featured appearances by Whoopi Goldberg, Nick Offerman, and Patton Oswalt, as ABC7 reported.

Stiller also announced that he would make his own $150,000, in an event that topped $500,000 before it was over.

'I'm not a comic. I'm an actor. I played Derek Zoolander. I was in Dodge Ball. I got my d---stuck in my zipper 25 years ago if you're old enough to get that reference,' he said summing up his filmography.

Actor Ben Stiller made a bizarre joke during his time speaking in a 'Comedians for Kamala' event

Stiller's late parents are the performers Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. He joked about getting a fundraising email from the candidate during his pitch. 'Was it ten [minutes]?' he asked. 'It felt like 20.'

Swalwell said Joe Biden belonged on the 'Mount Rushmore of Democratic presidents,' weeks after urging Biden to step aside.

'I've known Kamala for 20 years ... She's tough. She's really, she's ready. But she's also funny. It's really refreshing right now who's funny. She's serious, but she doesn't take herself too seriously,' he said.

A group of comedians gathered online to haul in funds for VP Kamala Harris

'You know, I'm Jewish and Irish,' he said. 'I wish I was Black. Every White Jewish guy wishes he was Black,' Stiller said during his comments on the zoom

Offerman, of Parks and Recreation and a rang of film projects, wrote a song from the point of view of a Harris-curious Republican to the tune of 'Proud to be an American.' He mentioned a 'spray-tan tool denying a girl her ethnic identity.'

'And while I'm no theologian, I thought it rather queer when they said that God let that fireman die but only nicked Don's precious ear,' he sang.

Stiller's comments come in a campaign sprint where Donald Trump openly questioned Harris' identity during an interview with a Black journalists association.

'She was always of Indian heritage, and she was only promoting Indian heritage. 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 said.
Former president Donald Trump repeated the rumor that Fidel Castro is the real father of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau during a podcast appearance.

The Republican candidate for president made the comments in a sit-down with popular streamer Adin Ross as they discussed Canada's political situation.

'He's turned very liberal, actually they say he's the son of Fidel Castro, and could be,' Trump said. 'Anything's possible in this world, you know.'

The claim that Trudeau is the son of Margaret Trudeau and the late communist dictator has been so persistent that the Canadian government was forced to deny it in 2018. Photos of Justin Trudeau and Castro as young men bear a strong resemblance to one another, many observers say.

The story was widely shared after Trudeau praised Castro as a 'larger than life legendary revolutionary' following his death in 2016.

Donald Trump repeated the false rumor that Fidel Castro is the real father of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau. The Canadian leader is pictured as a young man with his mother Margaret

The story was widely shared after Trudeau praised Castro, pictured as a young man, as a 'larger than life legendary revolutionary' following his death in 2016

Trudeau praised the former Cuban president in a tribute that focused on his family's close ties to Castro and made no mention of his history of ruthless suppression.

Trudeau's father, former Canadian prime minister Pierre Trudeau, met Castro in 1976, during a controversial trip that took place at the height of the Cold War.

Pierre Elliot Trudeau, who was the first NATO leader to visit Cuba since 1959, had hoped to open a dialogue with Castro as tensions between the island nation and the US worsened.

The Canadian prime minister arrived with his wife Margaret and youngest son Michel in tow and Castro reportedly melted at the sight of their newborn.

'I met that little baby when he came here when he wasn't even four months old, and he won everyone's heart,' Castro told the CBC in 2000.

That set the tone for the rest of the visit as Pierre and Castro, much to everyone's surprise, became instant friends.

Pierre stayed for three days, at one point even exclaiming 'Viva Castro!'

The two leaders' remained close longer after Pierre retired from politics and their friendship 'persisted into the 1990s', Professor Robin Wright told Macleans.

'He's turned very liberal, actually they say he's the son of Fidel Castro, and could be,' Trump said. 'Anything's possible in this world, you know'

The Canadian prime minister arrived with his wife Margaret and youngest son Michel in tow and Castro immediately melted at the sight of their newborn

Pierre stayed for three days, at one point even exclaiming 'Viva Castro!'

When the elder Trudeau passed away in 2000, Castro dropped everything to attend his funeral in Montreal.

Castro was an honorary pallbearer at the funeral and met Justin, then 29, and his younger brother Alexandre.

Following his father's footsteps, Trudeau visited Cuba just a week before Castro's death.

Trudeau's mother Margaret, an author and actress, was 22 when she married the 51-year-old prime minister and was the subject of intense media scrutiny.

Trump's comments come weeks after Mick Jagger, 80, was booed by the crowd at BC Place stadium on July 5 when he praised the Canadian prime minister on stage.

'We love your Mr. Trudeau,' Jagger said to a chorus of boos. 'I mean, his family has always been such big fans of our band'

Jagger sparked more rumors about the Canadian politician's mother after former president Donald Trump allegedly accused Margaret of sleeping with all the Rolling Stones

But he appeared to poke fun at his mother Margaret Trudeau and the time she spent partying with the Rolling Stones in the 1970s.

'We love your Mr. Trudeau,' Jagger said to a chorus of boos. 'I mean, his family has always been such big fans of our band.'

It sparked more rumors about the Canadian politician's mother after former president Trump allegedly accused Margaret of sleeping with all the Rolling Stones, per former White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham's book.

But the Rolling Stones frontman denied these rumors at the time and said: 'Its really embarrassing. It just isnt true, ya know?

'She just came for a two-night concert, she just wanted to have a good time, I dunno.'
A cancer faker conned loved ones and well-wishers out of tens of thousands of dollars - then splurged the cash on plastic surgery, cops say.

Kamilla Morgana, 29, was arrested July 30 in the Brazilian city of Aparecida de Goiania and declined to answer any questions until her trial.

The Goias Civil Police found that Morgana used at least $26,000 to pay for cosmetic procedures and to pay for the rental of a condominium in a high-end residential neighborhood.

A message recovered by the police showed how the single mother-of-one targeted her victims.

"I need to do the procedure as soon as possible. My father got a good part of the 48,000 reals (approximately $8,600), the problem is that we are already waiting for reimbursement from the plan," she wrote via WhatsApp. "We spent almost 500,000 reals (around $89,000) on the last hospitalization and there are still more than 20 days until reimbursement."

Kamilla Morgana was arrested on July 30 in Aparecida de Goiania on allegations she scammed friends, relatives and strangers out of money after lying that she had terminal cancer and lupus. Police said she conned the victims out of at least $26,700 in one year

Kamilla Morgana's lawyers said in statement that she suffers from mental illnesses and is taking medication that 'compromises her awareness of her own actions'

Kamilla Morgana used her social media platform to swindle her friends, family members and strangers out of money to cover her fake cancer treatment. The money was used instead to cover rental payments and cosmetic procedures

Morgana used her social media networks to seek help from friends, relatives and strangers.

One photo showed her lying on a hospital bed with a Portuguese caption that read: 'The desire to give up is great, but my faith is greater. I will be strong, I will be brave, as long as I breathe. Ps: I love you very much, dad!'

Another picture showed Morgana lying her head over a pillow with the same caption.

Morgana conned art teacher Gustavo Moura into giving her $9,400 for her treatment, according to TV Anhanguera.

He said he provided free art lessons to Morgana, who seemed to appear sick.

'When I was going to teach her to draw, she would tremble and pretend to be weak,' Moura recalled. 'Because I had this contact with her and her family, I didn't think I would do anything bad.'

In the process, Moura lost the money he had been saving to purchase his first home.

When pressed about showing proof that she was receiving treatment, Morgana snapped at Moura and texted him, 'I'm not going to do that. I'm not a criminal.'

Moura reached out on multiple occasions asking to be paid back.

'When are you going to pay me, Kamilla? How long are you going to keep hurting me and all these people? How long?' he wrote in an unanswered WhatsApp message on March 24, 2023.

'How can you live knowing that you have harmed the lives of so many people?' he added. 'So many hard-working and honest people?'

In a message date July 12, 2023, Moura asked Morgana: 'Are you really not going to pay, Kamilla? How long is this going to last, man?'

Art teacher Gustavo Moura (pictured) claims that he was conned by Kamilla Morgana to give her around $9,400 to cover the payment of cancer treatment

Brazilian mother-of-one Kamilla Morgana pretended to have cancer and lupus and took to social media, where she conned her followers, including friends, to donate money

Goias Civil Police chief Igomar de Souza said that Morgana wore a bandana on her head to pretend that she was stricken with cancer.

De Souza said she conned her own family as well as close friends. Her daughter's school had a fundraiser and wired the money to a bank account.

'There are several victims with different amounts of money. She scammed service providers, teachers and schools, everything she could get her hands on,' de Souza said. 'He paid off a loan on a credit card and didn't pay it back. The scams were against friends, family and people close to her, she had no problem with that.'

In a statement to UOL news outlet, Morgana's attorneys alleged that she suffers from mental illnesses that impaired her ability to make decisions.

'It is important to highlight that Ms. Kamilla Morgana suffers from severe psychological problems, such as Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Dissociative Behavior and Steven Johnson Syndrome,' Gilliano Souza and Victor Lopes said.

'She currently uses four controlled medications, which compromises her awareness of her own actions. Any conclusion at this point will be merely speculative and hasty, due to the absence of a detailed analysis of the nuances of the case.'
Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao is facing calls to resign from police chiefs amid an ongoing surge in violent crime and staffing issues in the beleaguered city.

The demand is a fresh blow to Thao, who is facing a recall election in November.

The Oakland Police Officers Association revealed it had voted unanimously to demand her resignation on Tuesday, stating they will back recall efforts if she fails to step aside.

The organization, led by President Huy Nguyen, warned the city has become a laughing stock.

'We're a joke and not just in the state but in the country and world. We need to change the state of the city,' Sgt. Nguyen told a press conference, Mercury News reports.

Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao is facing calls to resign from police chiefs amid bouts of violent crime and staffing issues in the beleaguered city

They cited rampant crime, understaffing among police and a murky financial future for the city as reasons for their lack of confidence.

A recent FBI raid of Thao's home in connection with an alleged money laundering scheme has only further harmed Thao's credibility, Nguyen added. Thao has protested her innocence.

The union warned that the police department needs around 500 more officers than it currently has to operate effectively.

'The leadership in this city continues to fail again and again and the citizens continue to suffer,' Nguyen said.

Thao has been battling against high levels of violent crime since she took office, but said her administration has secured, 'significant reductions in robberies, shootings, and homicides'.

However, data from Oakland Police shows that violent crime was up by more than a fifth over the year to the end of 2023, a year after she was elected.

Even though the homicide rate has come down, Oakland has more murders than the US average.

The Oakland Police Officers Association revealed it had voted unanimously to demand her resignation on Tuesday, stating they will back recall efforts if she fails to step aside. Pictured: A shantytown in ailing Oakland

The union cited rampant crime, understaffing among police and a murky financial future for the city as reasons for their lack of confidence

Thao's credibility has been further undermined by an FBI raid on her home in connection with an alleged money laundering scheme. Thao has insisted she has done nothing wrong

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.

Days after that incident, the Oakland Police Department admitted it only has 35 officers on patrol at any given moment for a city with over 400,000 people.

Thao's response to all of this has been to say crime is down when compared to 2023's early-year crime wave, though keen observers have noted that her office's report compared the fully compiled year-end 2023 statistics with the ongoing count for 2024.

In a statement, Thao said her budget, 'prioritized public safety by funding two new police academies and prevented the elimination of over 80 police officer positions.'

'I urge the four-member executive team of the Oakland Police Officers' Association to join me in celebrating this achievement rather than attempting to scare the public with misinformation and falsehoods,' she added.

A spokesperson for her confirmed 'the mayor has no plans to resign.'

The organization, led by President Huy Nguyen a laughing stock

Robberies and car thefts have doubled and tripled respectively when compared to pre-pandemic rates.

But retired Judge Brenda Harbin-Forte, who led the recall effort against Thao, told local media that she had 'blood on her hands,' while also criticizing her policies that she says are driving businesses out of Oakland faster than ever before.

Business owners who have decided to stick it out are beginning to reach their breaking point, with one longtime Oakland resident calling the current state of affairs 'demoralizing.'

Several big brands including Denny's and Taco Bell have either fled or amended their operations in the city to deal with the levels of crime.

As well as Thao, progressive District Attorney Pamela Price is also up for recall amid what many view as her soft on crime approach.
New York state trooper Joe Fay is an unabashed fan of Teslas.

Still, he has plenty of gripes about the silver Cybertruck parked in his driveway in Watertown, up by the Canadian border.

And the 29-year-old is not afraid to share his trenchant views about the $80,000 all-terrain electric vehicles.

The tattooed content creator, who dubs himself 'Just a guy who loves Tesla' recently posted a video on his pickup peeves to his 3.5 million TikTok followers.

He called it 'five things that I hate about my Cybertruck,' and it's been viewed 6.3 million times.

New York state trooper Joe Fay says he does not love everything about his new silver electric pickup

Fay's first complaint is about the paintwork on the trendy, angular four-wheelers.

There are 'fingerprints absolutely everywhere' across its sharp-edged stainless-steel body, he says.

'Every time you touch the truck, there are fingerprints left behind,' he adds, pointing to a smattering of grubby marks.

Fay goes on to complain about the design of the central console, which he says is static and poorly designed.

He then goes on to bemoan how the truck gate must be closed manually, and how the huge windshield is 'nearly impossible to clean' from the interior.

But Fay's chief complaint about the vehicle comes out of leftfield.

The way Fay tells it, the futuristic electric pickup is so eye-catching that everyday errands take much longer than expected.

'This truck draws so much attention that you cannot drive anywhere without people coming up to your window, screaming at you, yelling at you, and just wondering what this is,' says Fay.

Seemingly, Fay has been stuck in parking lots outside stores with bags of groceries unable to dodge conversations with vehicle fans.

'If you want to go anywhere quick with this truck, you just can't do it,' he adds.

'Every place you go is going to take 10 to 15 minutes longer because people want to stop and talk about the truck.'

Fays video comes as Cybertrucks struggle amid a glut of negative headlines since they were launched at the end of last year.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk once touted the vehicle as as 'apocalypse proof,' but the EV has required no less than four recalls since it debuted in late November of 2023.

Joe Fay of Watertown, up by the Canadian border, is an unabashed fan of Teslas.

Donald Trump was gifted a Tesla cybertruck wrapped in an American flag and image of the former president's near-assassination attempt during his July 13 campaign rally in Butler, PA

Tesla CEO Elon Musk once touted the vehicle as as 'apocalypse proof'

This week, 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 EV.

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.

But in a boost to the vehicles, former president Donald Trump appeared in a Cybertruck this week as part of a live streamer's broadcast.

In a wide-ranging 1.5-hour-long interview with popular Kick host Adin Ross at Mar-a-Lago, Trump talked about the American dream and his rival in November's election, Vice President Kamala Harris.

Ross gifted him the vehicle, which was wrapped in an image from Trump's near-assassination at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania last month.

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 sever human fingers and other appendages.

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.
Just Stop Oil has announced that it is pausing all protest action in response to the violent riots sweeping across Britain.

The environmental group, who have seen recent attempts to unleash a 'summer of chaos' at airports foiled by police, blamed 'climate chaos' for fuelling civil unrest in the UK.

Parts of Britain have been engulfed in riots since three kills were tragically killed in a horrifying stabbing rampage in Southport on July 29.

False speculation that the teenage murder suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker that had travelled to the UK on a boat has triggered a flurry of far-right rallies, which started outside a mosque in Southport and later spread around the country.

Just Stop Oil said it was 'deeply disturbed' by the riots but 'not surprised'. A spokesman added: 'The civil unrest the country is experiencing is a taste of what science is telling us will happen, as climate chaos accelerates and makes the preservation of a stable society untenable.

'We recognise that the violence on our streets is endangering communities, particularly those of Muslims and people of colour. In accordance with our commitment to nonviolence, we will not stretch police resources, such that they are unable to protect communities most at risk.

Just Stop Oil has announced that it is pausing all protest action in response to the violent riots sweeping across Britain. It comes after (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

AUGUST 1: Just Stop Oil protesters block the security screening area at Heathrow Terminal Five

AUGUST 1: Just Stop Oil activists hold placards which say 'oil kills' as passengers are forced to another departure gate

'Therefore, we are pausing our nonviolent resistance until the immediate threats to safety have been dealt with appropriately.'

JSO said supports will be joining 'peaceful counter-demonstrations' and will be helping with clean-up operations amid fears that more violence will break out on the streets.

The eco-group said it cannot 'afford to pause for more than is immediately necessary'.

And they claimed: 'Just Stop Oil supporters take no pleasure in causing disruption, far from it, we find it deeply uncomfortable. However, we have to face reality, if we want to protect our loved ones, the wider public and generations to come.'

The announcement comes 24 hours after five JSO activists were remanded to prison after being arrested near Manchester Airport.

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 the 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.

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

They appeared at Manchester Magistrates' Court charged with intentionally or recklessly causing public nuisance yesterday.

The five protesters were all remanded until at least their next appearance on September 10.

JSO 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.

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.

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 stunt

JULY 29: Just Stop Oil activists block departures gates at Gatwick Airport

JULY 29: Police are forced to intervene as Just Stop Oil protesters sit in front of the gates

Heathrow confirmed all the protesters were 'swiftly' removed and there was no disruption or damage.

There was no apparent impact on flights, and Scotland Yard said seven people were arrested on suspicion of public order offences.

Just Stop Oil claimed the seven arrested people included six who were blocking the gates and then a further person filming the action. The group added that another ten people were arrested on public transport.

It comes after another protest in the same Heathrow terminal two days earlier saw two Just Stop Oil activists arrested after they sprayed orange paint on departure boards.

The protest followed another at London Gatwick the day before when eight Just Stop Oil supporters were arrested for blocking departure gates.
Four people were killed when a small airplane crashed on Tuesday afternoon in Oklahoma City, local authorities said.

The plane crashed about 1:30pm at Sundance Airport, a small airport on the outskirts of the city, according to Oklahoma City Fire Capt. John Chenoweth.

He said the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration were notified of the crash.

The FAA said in preliminary statement that the aircraft was a single-engine Beechcraft BE33 that crashed while taking off from the airport and the NTSB will be in charge of investigating.

NTSB spokesperson Keith Holloway wrote in an email that the airplane was a Beech F33A, though the information is preliminary. NTSB investigators are expected to be on the scene tomorrow to examine the aircraft, Holloway added.

At time of publication, none of the four victims have been identified by authorities.

Four people were killed when a small airplane crashed on Tuesday afternoon in Oklahoma City

The plane crashed about 1:30pm at Sundance Airport, a small airport on the outskirts of the city

The crash took place north-east of Oklahoma City on Tuesday afternoon

Mark Patterson, who lives near the airport, told local media that he smelled smoke at the time of the crash.

'My son was playing a game online with a friend over at the neighborhood Stoneridge Farms and just said that he heard helicopters. So, we went outside and observed.

'It's always on my mind. You see a lot of air traffic, but this is the first since we lived here.'

'I just smelt smoke. It was weird. Almost like a firecracker a little bit.'

It comes just over a month after a Boeing 737 aircraft suddenly plummeted to less than 500 feet off the ground over Oklahoma, terrifying residents who feared the jet was going to crash.

Southwest Airlines Flight 4069 was nine miles away from Will Rogers World Airport just after midnight when records show the 737 dived to between 400 and 500 feet as it flew over a high school in the city of Yukon.

The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the incident and SouthWest has confirmed they are working with them to address any 'irregularities'.

A resident was startled awake by the plane's engine and wondered if the aircraft was set for a collision.

'It woke me up and I thought it was gonna hit my house,' the resident wrote on the Yukon Happenings Facebook page, according to The Oklahoman.
She was repeatedly told to leave the ward and was eventually suspended

Safia Ahmadei was on placement at the hospital but not on the maternity ward

A student nurse accused of attempting to kidnap a premature baby from a hospital neonatal ward had duped her husband into believing she was pregnant, a court heard.

Safia Ahmadei wanted a child 'who could pass for her own after faking a pregnancy' and repeatedly entered the ward at the hospital where she was on placement, where jurors were told she befriended the baby's mother by offering her blankets for the infant.

The 'Increasingly desperate' 36-year-old had told her husband she had given birth to twins weeks earlier and 'needed to produce a baby' after claiming one of the infants had died, the prosecution said.

Ahmadei then allegedly attempted to snatch the newborn after entering the ward in her student nurse's uniform, covered by a coat.

In a police interview she said she was separated from her husband but was still married to him.

The 36-year-old is accused of attempting to kidnap a premature baby from a hospital neonatal ward after tricking her husband into believing she was pregnant (file image)

Opening the case on Tuesday, prosecutor Seamran Sidhu said: 'The prosecution say she was not just being friendly to the baby's mother. She was not just visiting the baby to bring blankets and be kind.

'She may have wanted to dupe her husband and others into believing she was pregnant. She needed to produce a baby somehow.'

Ahmadei denies one count of attempting to kidnap the baby at New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, between February 12 and 14.

Ms Sidhu said the defendant separated from her first husband and went on to marry again but the couple struggled to conceive.

Ahmadei is said to have told her second husband she was pregnant with twins and was due to give birth in December 2023.

Ms Sidhu said: 'December came and no babies arrived. That's because she was not pregnant.'

The University of Wolverhampton student allegedly lied to her husband and said she had given birth in mid to late January. But she claimed one of the twins had died because it had been starved of oxygen.

Jurors have been told that issues such as miscarriage and grief are likely to be mentioned during the trial.

Wolverhampton Crown Court previously heard how Ahmadei allegedly 'scouted out' babies during multiple trips to the hospital's neonatal ward while donning her student nurse's uniform.

She allegedly plotted to kidnap the newborn from the unit after taking a 'particular interest' in the baby and quizzing the infant's mother on their 'racial heritage', jurors heard.

Ahmadei was said to have repeatedly strolled into the ward despite being told to leave, even returning after eventually being suspended.

She also purchased items for the newborn 'ready for when she had the baby', the prosecution alleged.

The court heard that when police were called and searched her, officers found baby clothes and a baby comforter on her. More baby clothes, still with their tags on, a passport and 1,500 cash were found in her car.

Nurses on the unit are said to have given Ahmadei repeated warnings not to come to the unit after confronting her.

The defendant - who was on placement at the hospital but not in the maternity ward - told one nurse she was 'just passing by' after visiting the resources department.

Ms Sidhu said: 'That department was on the other side of the hospital so she would not have been just passing by.'

She also claimed she was a friend of the infant's mother and that she was there to give the baby blankets. Ahmadei was suspended by her university and told not to go to the hospital once concerns were raised with police, the court was told.

Safia Ahmadei wanted a child 'who could pass for her own after faking a pregnancy', and was becoming 'increasingly desperate' after telling her husband she had given birth to twins weeks earlier, jurors were told. Pictured: Wolverhampton Crown Court

But just hours later she returned to the ward and was arrested. In her interview with officers, Ahmadei said she had an 'interest in maternity' and wanted to work in that department once she had completed her degree.

She confirmed she had spoken with the baby's mother for about 30 minutes, discussing their backgrounds and family. But she said the mother had complained of her baby being cold so wanted to give her a 'gift' containing baby blankets on the day of her arrest.

In a second interview, the mother-of-two said she had separated from her husband but was still married to him. She claimed she went to the hospital despite being told she was suspended from her nursing course to apologise to the baby's mother.

Ahmadei, of Wolverhampton, said she had no intention of kidnapping the baby and was just being 'friendly'.

The trial continues.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb has strenuously denied allegations she bought more than 100 bottles of gin with taxpayers' money and drunk some of the hard liquor herself, calling the claims 'absolutely false'.

Upper House Independent MP Rod Roberts, speaking on Wednesday afternoon under parliamentary privilege, accused the state's top cop of purchasing dozens of bottles of gin with public funds and drinking some of it herself along with her staff.

'I have very good informants inside the NSW police force and members of the legal fraternity outside who have told me that Commissioner Webb has purchased in excess of 100 bottles of gin, and that gin, she said ... on radio this morning (with) Ben Fordham, that "I've used that as gifts to visiting dignitaries",' Mr Roberts claimed.

'Well I say, that's not correct. And that gin has been used by the commissioner herself and some of her members of staff.

'And I'm asking for the records to show where the distribution of that gin went. It is taxpayers' money.'

In a statement, Commissioner Webb labelled Mr Roberts' claims 'completely false'.

'The comments made under parliamentary privilege this afternoon are completely false,' she said.

'I invite public scrutiny as it is an important part of being NSW Police Commissioner but these comments are solely intended to damage my personal reputation and have no basis in fact.

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb (pictured) has strenuously denied drinking gin in response to shocking new allegations broadcast in state parliament

'The 50 bottles were purchased in accordance with policies and procedures as outlined by LECC (the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission).

'To date, 24 bottles have been distributed as gifts or donated for charity purposes.

'I have not tasted the Commissioner's Gin and to suggest the bottles were purchased for personal and staff use, is incorrect.'

Speaking with 2GB's Chris O'Keefe, Ms Webb said Mr Roberts 'must have me confused for someone else'.

She also rejected the claim her staff members had drunk any of the gin.

The furore centres around a tradition in the NSW Police Force for the commissioner to buy bottles for visiting commissioners and dignitaries from other jurisdictions.

Ms Webb defended her decision to buy alcohol after the allegations were tabled in NSW Parliament on Tuesday.

She explained that the purchase of bottles of gin follows a tradition set out by her predecessor, former Police Commissioner Mick Fuller.

Ms Webb has been cleared of breaching any serious misconduct allegations, after questions arose about whether the use of taxpayer dollars was appropriate.

'After becoming commissioner, I was informed by the previous (NSW Police) Commissioner (Mick Fuller) of his practice of providing bottles of commissioner's signature shiraz wine as courtesy gifts for visiting commissioners and dignitaries from other jurisdictions',' Ms Webb wrote in a text to 2GB journalist Ben Fordham, who told his listeners on Wednesday about their exchange.

'I continued this tradition and ordered from the same supplier as Commissioner Fuller.

'Some are being gifted to such visitors and others for special occasions such as being donated to police legacy as an auction item, supporting families of deceased police. This is an established precedent Ben.'

She later confirmed she had swapped the wine order for bottles of gin to be purchased from the same supplier.

On Wednesday, the LECC confirmed it had investigated the allegations after receiving an anonymous complaint on September 7, 2023.

The LECC launched Operation Askern in October 2023 into whether Ms Webb had failed to declare a conflict of interest when purchasing the Commissioner's Gin.

LECC found there was no evidence to support a finding of serious misconduct against Ms Webb or any other police officer who might have purchased the Commissioner's Gin and presentation boxes.

A report was provided to Police Minister Yasmin Catley (pictured) on Tuesday which outlined the allegations

Poll Is it right that the NSW Police Commissioner should give bottles of gin as gifts? Yes No Is it right that the NSW Police Commissioner should give bottles of gin as gifts? Yes 41 votes

No 114 votes Now share your opinion





The investigation also found the purchase of the alcohol was 'in accordance with policies and procedures'.

However, LECC confirmed Ms Webb 'should have disclosed her association with the supplier when she became aware of the purchase of Commissioner's Gin'.

'The Commission recommended that all NSWPF employees, including the Senior Executive and the Commissioner of Police are regularly reminded of their duty to declare any conflict of interest, including a perceived conflict of interest,' the LECC stated.

A report was provided to Police Minister Yasmin Catley on Tuesday which outlined the allegations, investigations and findings of the LECC.

During question time on Wednesday, Ms Catley defended the Commissioner's decision to uphold the tradition of buying gifts for visiting dignitaries. But she confirmed the spending will now be investigated by the LECC.

'The police commissioner was made aware by the previous police commissioner of a precedent of ordering bottles of wine as courtesy gifts for visiting commissioners, for other dignitaries from other jurisdictions overseas and have also been used at charity events,' Ms Catley said.

'The commissioner ordered bottles of alcohol from the same supplier as the former commissioner did.

'All of us have given wine as a gift - it really does seem like quite an ordinary gift to me.'

The furore over the spending comes after former NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell resigned after admitting he misled a corruption tribunal about a $3,000 bottle of Penfolds Grange red he was gifted by Australian Water Holdings in 2014.

New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb (pictured) is again under pressure

The former premier was later cleared by ICAC of any wrongdoing in 2017.

Mr Fordham told his listeners on Wednesday it was important political figures, such as Ms Webb, be held to account for spending taxpayers' dollars.

'I think if there is more than one bottle of gin - it might be 10, it might be 20, it might be 50, it might be 100 - she's been in the job for some time, she may have given many gifts.

'She may have donated many to charity and I don't criticise her for that if she's helping Police Legacy, but because it's public money, she's going to have to come up with the answers I'd suggest pretty soon about how many bottles and where they went and what the total cost was,' Mr Fordham said.
by X. Muller

Lyon, France, Croix Rousse University Hospital, 1 AM, February 10, 2023. *

Three hours into the surgery, I placed the surgical clamp on the upper part of the vena cava, the large vein carrying the deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the right atrium of the heart. This was the last mandatory step before the veins of the liver could be safely divided just above the clamp in order to remove the diseased organ from the abdominal cavity of the patient. The role of the clamp was to firmly close the large hole left in the vena cava after the liver was removed, hereby preventing the occurrence of a fatal bleeding. This allowed to move on to the implantation of the liver graft, which had been procured from a deceased organ donor several hours ago. The implantation is the final phase of a liver transplantation where the three major blood vessels and the bile duct of the graft are reconnected to those of the recipient by manual sutures.

Liver transplantation has come a long way since the first successful procedure in 1963.1 From a technical point of view, the procedure is now well standardized and offers patients with end-stage liver disease the only live saving treatment.2 In addition, recent scientific advances have allowed more patients to gain access to liver transplantation, for example the use of immunotherapy for advanced liver tumors. Technically and scientifically speaking, liver transplantation, it always occurred to me, has been a success story, and the procedure on that given day in February was part of that story.

Until the clamp on the vena cava slipped!

I heard the voice of the scrub nurse yelling in French Mon Dieu, we have a major bleeding. My colleague, in what was more a muscle memory reflex than a conscious decision, used his left hand to compress the vena cava above the hole left by the slipped clamp and placed a second clamp on the vena cava just below the hole in order to stop the bleeding. Instantly, we heard the nervous beeping of the patient monitor indicating low blood pressure. Can you relieve the clamp in order to restore the blood return into the right atrium of the heart? asked the anaesthesiologist. Negative, we need to implant the liver graft with both clamps in place. You need to hold the blood pressure for at least 40 minutes!, my colleague replied while placing the graft in the patients abdomen to start the implantation. At this point, it was clear to everyone in the room that what had been a routine liver transplantation with minimal blood loss and no technical difficulties, now became a challenge to get the patient out of the operating room alive.

When I visited the patient on the intensive care unit after the successful transplantation, at once he asked me if everything went according to plan. Not exactly. We had a clamp incident. Then, I told him the entire story. I emphasized that it was due to the experience of the whole team that we were able to safely complete the liver transplantation, despite the unexpected event. Will this change anything for me?, he asked. For now, the liver graft is working fine, but we have to take it day by day from here. After leaving his room I glanced back, and I could see in his eyes that he was starting to process what I had just told him. Although he had been under general anaesthesia during the surgery, I felt as if we had engaged in a very close bond during the clamp incident. Suddenly, I also remembered that we had briefly discussed the potentially fatal outcome of a liver transplantation in the routine pre-transplant consultation. I had specifically pointed out that dissecting a major blood vessel such as the vena cava exposes to a risk of bleeding and death. At that time, none of us knew of course that we would be confronted to exactly this situation.

The more I thought about the incident, the more I wondered how to situate the latter in the broader scope of modern medical practice. What struck me most, was how this singular experience was different from what I was taught in medical school and what was now expected from me as an academic surgeon. For example, during my PhD thesis, I worked on optimizing the preservation of liver grafts prior to transplantation in an experimental swine model.3 The endpoint of the study was to quantify and compare the metabolic and cellular changes in the liver graft during different preservation strategies. In other words, the methodological framework applied here is that of medical science, that is, based on a given clinical observation, for instance a disease, a theoretical hypothesis is tested in a confined and controlled experimental setting. So far so good. But what I couldnt get my mind around, was that all that theoretical knowledge obtained through medical science, was of little help on that given day in February. In other words, notwithstanding all the scans, MRIs, blood screenings and treatments of the patient, it all came down to a simple surgical clamp: for me, the patient, the scrub-nurse and all the people directly involved in the therapy of the patient.

Therapy! Exactly, that was it. Once arrived at home, I grabbed the books by the French philosopher Georges Canguilhem, who was recommended to me by a friend following a discussion on therapy in medicine. I had struggled to grasp what exactly Canguilhem wanted to tell his readers. Yet, now, after what had happened in the operating room, the passages in his works became clearer. For what I realized what the precariousness and singularity of life that Canguilhem writes about, was really about.

Diseases are crises  in the life of an individual, the philosopher writes.4 They are felt by the living as a harm, an evil.4 Therefore, death has to be situated in lifeand disease is the sign of this.4 Death is not an abstraction, somewhere out there, it has a daily presence when confronting sick patients. But more than that, for the patient these signs of illness, these diseases are not only limitations of his physical power, they are the dramas of his history. Human life is an existence [] and is haunted by its end.5 The slip of the clamp brought that end a good deal closer, and even though the patient was anesthetized, he and everybody involved felt exactly what drama meant. In that moment, the patients life not only became a singular event, undistinguishable from any other, moreover the patient emerged as a whole individual, with whom I had agreed on conducting an operation as well as to care for after. Thats what therapy is about: the process through pre-, intra- and post-operative phases.

This brings us to the central question for Canguilhem: the problem of individuality in disease.6 Given that it is the patient as an individual who is sick, I as a physician engaging in therapy, cease to be a simple repairer of sick organs.7 For Canguilhem it is incorrect to speak of diseased organs, diseased tissues, diseased cells5 Sickness cannot be dissociated from the person as a whole. Clinical practice puts the physician in contact with complete and concrete individuals and not with organs and their functions.6 Disease affects the entire organism because the parts of the organism cannot be isolated atomically from one another  even if my own practice, liver transplantation, consists in exchanging an isolated organ. Disease as the drama of the patients personal history became my drama, and I realized this through the clamp incident.

If I am not just a repairer operating according to standardized procedures, then surgery is not just about standardization, quantification or objectivity. Consequently, medical therapy cannot be reduced to mere scientific endeavour. Indeed, medicine exists because there are men who feel sick, not because there are doctors to tell men of their illnesses.6 In other words, the doctor is called by the patient.6 Science is helpful in treating patients, but it remains a tool, just like the clamp, in the context of a patient-doctor relationship. This relationship goes well beyond the notion of a dysfunctioning organ. Medicine is a technique or art at the crossroads of several sciences, rather than, strictly speaking, like one science.6 When I transplant livers, I am not conducting experiments as part of medical science. Patients are not subjects of an experiment with the primary aim of gaining theoretical knowledge. Their body is not passive and obedient to external manipulations and solicitations.7 The physician is not just a blind repairer, but an exegete who interprets signs that the patient as a whole individual is communicating.8

Although I have thought to be a surgeon-scientist in a highly specialized and standardized field of medicine, I now recognize that therapy needs to grasp the singularity of each individual patient. This singularity is the basis, and yet, also the limit of therapeutic activity in medicine. A single clamp, beyond every statistical approximation. Despite over 10 years of medical studies, the clamp incident taught me what it takes to become a therapist in modern medicine. The hard way.

*Date and time as well as identifying details have been changed to ensure anonymity.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank the entire surgical team including the anesthesiologists and the scrub nurses. Special thanks to Guillaume Rossignol who was one of the 2 surgeons involved in the procedure .

References
A former caregiver stabbed a paralyzed man to death after crashing a minivan into his home, cops said.

The suspect, 47-year-old Aaron Matthew Shindle, was then killed by police, after an encounter less than half a mile away from the victim's Woodbridge home in California.

The incident happened Monday morning at about 2:15 am, the Irvine Police Department said, revealing how officers were forced to shoot Shindle after he attempted to accost them with the same knife used to killed John Alexander Bash.

Bash, 38, had been a former client of Shindle's, they went on to reveal - before stating it was the wheelchair-bound man's current caretaker who discovered his savaged body.

He went on to dial 911, after discovering his patient was bloody and unresponsive. When IPD arrived, the found an unoccupied Honda minivan crashed into his garage door, and Bash dead inside. A shootout minutes later saw Shindle killed, they said - after the suspect raised the still-bloodied weapon at them.

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John Alexander Bash was stabbed to death by a former caregiver early Monday morning, after the suspect crashed his minivan into the paralyzed man's home, cops said

The incident happened Monday morning at about 2:15am, the Irvine Police Department said, after which 47-year-old suspect Aaron Matthew Shindle was left lodged into the slain man's Woodbridge residence

'As officers were canvassing the area for the minivan driver, an IPD officer encountered the registered owner at Stonecreek South and West Yale Loop,' cops wrote in a statement just hours after the slaying.

'During the exchange, the officer observed the male holding a knife,' the bulletin went on.

'The male raised the knife and advanced towards the officer when an officer-involved shooting occurred. A knife was recovered at the scene.'

Officers shared a photo of the blood-spattered weapon, before shedding more light on the situation.

'The male suspect appear[ed] to be the driver of the minivan that crashed into the home and is believed to have killed the victim,' they said.

Shindle did not die immediately, they added - detailing how he 'was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. They did confirm Shindle was the sole suspect, without offering much more detail.

'Preliminarily, the suspect is a former caregiver for the victim,' they further revealed, adding that the support worker was once a resident of Tampa, Florida.

'Detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident,' the statement concluded. 'They do not believe there are any additional suspects.'

A shootout ensued less than half a mile away, after first-responders came into contact with Shindle, who was still holding this knife

'Detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident,' a statement issued Monday said. 'They do not believe there are any additional suspects'

The same day, as cops continued to discern a motive, IPD officers said there was still little to go off of

'According to what we know, there was no beef,' one officer said. The IPD is not handling a separate probe involving the later shootout.

That will be left up to the Orange County District Attorney's office, due to the lethal force used to subdue the suspect

Prospective witnesses and those with knowledge of what may have led to the incident were urged to reach out to police.

Neighbors who did not see what happened but were privy to the police presence that followed spoke to CBS News Tuesday.

They revealed that Bash was in a wheelchair because of an accident he suffered several years ago where he dove headfirst into shallow waters in Lake Havasu, and remembered him as an uplifting presence in the neighborhood.

'He was always really nice to us and I'm just blown away,' said neighbor Marilyn Botzenhardt, a few dozen feet from where the crash and slaying had occurred.

'I can't believe that,' she said of the crime. 'Who would do that?'

The same day, as cops continued to discern a motive, IPD's Sgt. Karie Davies said there was still little to go off of.

'According to what we know, there was no beef,' she said, as officials said the IPD would not be handling a separate probe involving the shootout.

'According to the victim's family, this was out of the blue,' she said. 'This is something our detectives are going to have to figure out.'

Neighbors who did not see what happened but were privy to the police presence that followed spoke to CBS News Tuesday

'He was always really nice to us and I'm just blown away,' said neighbor Marilyn Botzenhardt, a few dozen feet from where the slaying had occurred

Meanwhile, tributes for the deceased continue to pour in on social media, painting him as a thrill-seeking, resilient man who managed to stay positive after the loss of his legs in 2015.

'So very sad that this happened to Johnny,' wrote Irvine resident Jenee MacBeth on Tuesday.

'He was a nice guy. I hadn't talked to him since high school. It just breaks my heart that his family had to navigate his accident years back which left him paralyzed and now this horrible tragic, violent loss of him. He grew up here in Irvine.

'What a disgusting human to take the life of a kind, determined, defenseless individual,' she added. 'Thank you IPD for your quick response and handling business.'

'Johnny is such a sweet guy who has already been through so much,' another added. 'Just terrible.'

'He was a very big light in this dark world,' added Jenny Keifer Stidham, speaking to The Mercury News.

Bash was in a wheelchair because of an accident he suffered years ago where he dove headfirst into Lake Havasu, and was remembered him as an uplifting presence in the neighborhood

'He was just a genuinely good person.'

Meanwhile, the investigation involving the lethal forced used to subdue the suspect will be left up to the Orange County District Attorney's office, to avoid any conflict of interest.

That encounter saw the suspect raise the knife and charge toward officers, it is claimed - prompting them to open fire.

IPD's investigation into the stabbing remains ongoing.
A German doctor allegedly murdered four patients in their homes before setting fire to their properties to cover his tracks.

The 39-year-old, who reportedly worked in the palliative care team of a nursing service in Berlin, was arrested on Tuesday on manslaughter and arson charges, according to a joint statement by police and the local prosecutor's office.

The doctor allegedly killed four elderly women being cared for by the nursing service between June 11 and July 24, but police has yet to determine how exactly these patients aged 72-94 died.

To cover his tracks, the man set fire to the women's homes and, in one case, even called one of the victims' relatives and lied about the woman being unresponsive to conceal the killing when the fire in her apartment went out by itself, police say.

The man started his alleged killing spree on June 11, when he is said to have murdered a 87-year-old woman in her home in the Neukoelln district of Berlin before setting her apartment alight.

The fourth victim, 72, was killed and her home in an apartment building set on fire in the Plaenterwald district adjacent to Neukoelln around noon on July 24 (scene pictured above)

Emergency services called to put out the fire around 12.30pm initially managed to resuscitate the woman, but she later died in hospital.

Three other residents in the block of flats suffered minor injuries in the fire.

The second alleged case of manslaughter happened nearly a month later, on July 8, just a few miles away.

Prosecutors believe that the doctor killed a woman aged 76, also living in Neukoelln, and tried setting a fire, which went out by itself.

He then attempted to cover up the killing by calling a relative of the victim. He told them that he was standing in front of her apartment and that no one was responding to him ringing the doorbell.

On July 15, just one week later, police believe the alleged serial killer struck again, when a 94-year-old woman died in her flat with her kitchen being set on fire in the same Berlin district as the woman a week prior.

The fourth victim, 72, was killed and her home in an apartment building set on fire in the Plaenterwald district adjacent to Neukoelln around noon on July 24.

A neighbour noticed smoke coming from the woman's ground floor flat and alerted the local fire service at 1.15pm, who found her dead.

Berlin's public prosecutor's office has charged the alleged serial killer with four cases of manslaughter, three cases of attempted particularly serious arson and one case of completed arson. The investigation is ongoing.
A plane full of American Airlines passengers found themselves reduced to the status of illegal migrants when their flight was diverted to the Bahamas.

Few of the 100 passengers aboard Flight 2421 had passports with them as they boarded the two-hour flight from Puerto Rico to Miami on Saturday afternoon.

And it was midday on Sunday before they finally reached the Florida airport after their flight was diverted to the Caribbean island where they were forced to stay overnight in the terminal.

One passenger from North Carolina went viral with an impassioned TikTok that has been seen 2.6 million times since he recorded it in the middle of the night among his hungry, thirsty and exhausted comrades.

'It's like The Terminal with Tom Hanks,' wrote one horrified viewer.

The passengers had been stranded for seven hours in the airport terminal when the TikToker delivered his impassioned update from the Bahamas at 5.40am

American Airlines Flight 2421 was supposed to take two hours to reach Miami after taking off from Puerto Rico at 5.30pm on Saturday, but arrived in the city on Sunday afternoon

No passports are needed for US citizens flying from the mainland to the American territory in the eastern Caribbean.

But Hurricane Debby was gathering strength over the sea and the fight became one of 2,000 impacted by the Category 1 storm as it barreled into Florida.

'We flew round in a circle for about half an hour because of weather then the pilot decided 'hey we need to land in the Bahamas',' the TikToker told his followers.

'This is a different country. The pilot asks 'who here has their passports and who doesn't?'

'Lo and behold everybody doesn't because everybody expected to go from the US to the US.'

Three hours after taking off, the Boeing 737 touched down in the Bahamian capital Nassau, but the passengers' troubles were only just beginning.

'We land the plane, we're sitting on the tarmac for two hours, we got off the plane, turns out the pilot can't do overtime or something so we had to get off the plane,' the TikToker with the handle @griptape_dimas said.

'We got off here, we can't leave the terminal cos we're not allowed to be here, we are illegally here and not only can't we leave the airport, we can't leave the terminal, we can't do anything.'

The passengers found themselves herded into a terminal chilled by air conditioning where they were left without food, water, or blankets overnight.

Passengers were left without food, water, blankets or medicine in the freezing terminal

More than 2,000 flights were disrupted as the category 1 storm barreled into Florida at the weekend, with American Airlines the worst affected carrier

'Within the first hour of getting here we were told 'the plane's going to come, oh they're deboarding the plane, oh it's only 20 minutes to get here.

'After about hour five everybody is pulling doors, everybody here is running off like six seven hours of no food, Briscoff cookies and sodas and freezing, zero information.

The two American Airlines desk staff on the scene struggled to give meaningful updates as the hours wore on but roped in the bilingual influencer to translate their announcements into Spanish.

'After hour five I knew that the whole idea of a plane getting unboarded with a new crew from Orlando was a bunch of nonsense,' the TikToker lamented in his 5.40am update.

'Matter of fact we've been looking at the computer, after a while they turned the computer off because they didn't want us looking at it.

'Now people are having medical emergencies, there's medication on the plane, It's on the plane!

'They told a gentleman here he can't go in and get it because of laws, red tape.

'They won't call immigration because they tell us 'they're going to tell us the same thing'.

'We're on hour seven of being here; no food, no water, it's cold, there's no blankets, we have one bathroom for 100 people, dogs, children, no information.'

Tracking data from Flightradar suggests their original aircraft took off without them from Nassau at 10pm on Saturday, landing little more than an hour later in Miami.

But it was 10.15am on Sunday before the desperate passengers finally boarded a flight and took off for Miami.

'This isn't even a cool airport,' the young TikToker noted.

'Mama told me don't get off the plane, you're basically an illegal immigrant right now.

'Hopefully they'll give me my Bahamian green card.'

Millions of people found themselves gripped by the TikToker's testimony with many predicted a hefty compensation for the affected passengers.

Tracking data from Flightradar.com shows the plane's meandering path on Saturday evening before it was diverted to Nassau in the Bahamas

'Get these ppl home immediately so this guy can apply at CNN,' wrote one.

'Make sure AA gives y'all a proper trip the Bahamas so you can experience it properly,' suggested another.

'This is why you ALWAYS bring your passport when you fly, even domestically because you never know if you're going to need to stop in another country,' added a third.

Dailymail.com has reached out to American Airlines for comment.
It was a strange moment between a husband of wife of 30 years.

After delivering the biggest speech of his political life, Kamala Harris's newly anointed running mate Tim Walz greets his wife Gwen on stage in front of an adoring crowd ... and welcomes her with a firm handshake.

He barely recovers himself, leaning in for the sort of awkward man hug that is perhaps more often seen when two college fratboys meet up years later, not at the end of a high-octane speech when you're trying to convince the nation to vote for you.

It tickled Walz's opposite number on the Trump ticket.

'It's funny, because they're trying to portray him as just another normal Midwestern guy,' Sen. J.D. Vance told DailyMail.com with a guffaw during an exclusive interview Wednesday.

Kamala Harris 's newly anointed running mate Tim Walz greets his wife Gwen on stage in front of an adoring crowd ... and welcomes her with a firm handshake

'And I know that when I see my wife after a big speech, what I really want to do is give her a nice, firm handshake.

'It's just a completely bizarre response.'

While Harris kissed her husband stage right, the Walzs were looking as if they were still getting used to what was and wasn't expected of their new high-profile role.

Vance spoke to DailyMail.com aboard his campaign plane en route to Michigan, a day after Walz was unveiled as Kamala's Harris's vice presidential pick.

In a wide-ranging interview, he described how his role was to keep 'laser focused' on Harris, unpicking her policies on immigration, energy and the economy.

But it also offered him the chance to take on Walz, whose MidWestern normie vibes will be matched up against Vance's blue-collar Ohio roots.

He slammed reports that Walz had walked out on his National Guard brothers in arms before they deployed to Iraq in 2005.

And he delighted in Walz's awkward handshake with his wife.

The moment stands in stark contrast to Vance's big moment, when he addressed the Republican National Convention last month two days after becoming Trump's running mate.

Mrs Walz takes the initiative by reaching up to her husband as Harris and her husband kiss

He and his wife Usha, 39, showed how it should be done, smooching on stage at the end of his speech in a natural embrace.

'I gave my wife a nice kiss,' he said, guffawing again at the idea that they were making out on stage in front of thousands of party delegates.

Walz's behavior, he added, was totally bizarre.

He landed at Detroit airport on Wednesday morning before heading to Shelby Township where he was briefed by law enforcement officers and addressed local media.

'It is a policy choice to open up the American southern border and allow migrant criminals to come into this community and make it less safe,' he said.

'I gave my wife a nice kiss,' Vance said about the moment he embraced Usha after his speech at the Republican National Convention

Vance mocked Walz by sarcisctally saying that when he saw his wife after his RNC speech 'what I really want to do is give her a nice, firm handshake'

'It is a policy choice to not deport people, to suspend deportations, which is what Kamala Harris did, and I heard just earlier about a criminal who was deported from this community, who came back in and then raped an 11 year old girl just in the past couple of months.'

After that he was on his way to Eau Claire in Wisconsin.

Aides say it is part of a 'bracketing' strategy, hitting cities just ahead of Harris, who is visiting both places later in the day.

He was in Philadelphia Tuesday too, ahead of the first Harris-Walz event.
A woman dubbed 'America's worst mayor' has had the privilege of using her administration's credit cards revoked after an alleged spending frenzy.

Tiffany Henyard was banned on Monday from using Dolton village credit cards after the Illinois village board of trustees brought in measures against her.

The trustees have said that they will only allow the Director of Administrative Services to use the village's credit card on 'board-approved purchases' only.

Henyard has been clinging onto power despite criticism over her management of Dolton and her alleged lavish spending. She is also currently under investigation.

Michael McGrath, an attorney representing the trustees, told WGN: 'This village has so many people with so many credit cards, theyre swiping like crazy and thats why it had to come to a complete halt.'

Tiffany Henyard was banned on Monday from using Dolton village credit cards after the Illinois village board of trustees brought in measures against he

He added: 'Theres thousands and thousands of dollars for Amazon purchases, for PayPal, for Target, for Walgreens, in the hundreds and thousands of dollars.'

According to McGrath, a recent snapshot of spending going back five-to-six months was recently brought to the attention by Henyard's top aid Keith Freeman.

Freeman has already pleaded not guilty to a federal bankruptcy charge relating to his incoming being under reported. McGrath said he was now helping the trustees.

At the meeting on Monday night, Henyard sought to announce that Freeman had been terminated from his post.

The board of trustees however had insisted that Freeman was still part of the administration, and remained as the village administrator.

Henyard, who has her defense attorney Beau Brindley speak on her behalf, said that Freeman had put her safety in jeopardy by removing her security detail.

As part of her fears over her own security, local police have now brought in metal detectors into the trustees' meeting room.

On Monday, Henyard had everyone inside go back through the detectors after the meeting had already started.

On Monday, Henyard had everyone inside go back through the detectors after the meeting had already started

Freeman, seen here, has already pleaded not guilty to a federal bankruptcy charge relating to his incoming being under reported

During public comment, one resident told the meeting: 'Watching as this village is being run into the ground by this woman is pissing me off.'

Another woman added: 'Watching as this village is being run into the ground by this woman is pissing me off.'

While another resident said: 'This village deserves so much more than its getting. From an outsider looking in, youre being hoodwinked, bamboozled, and led astray.'

Henyard also had three women escorted from the Board Meeting by officers citing their behavior as 'out of order'.

The high-rolling mayor, who earns $300,000 for her public duties, has spent thousands more on first class trips, a professional hair and makeup team and a security detail.

Henyard had three women escorted from the Board Meeting by officers citing their behavior as 'out of order

The high-rolling mayor, who earns $300,000 for her public duties, has spent thousands more on first class trips, a professional hair and makeup team and a security detail

She has been accused of unlawfully signing off contracts as dozens of unpaid suppliers threaten to take the town to court by the FBI.

Henyard has also been accused by a former employee of sexual harassment and retaliation.

The former employee claims the mayor fired her after she said she was sexually assaulted at a work trip in Las Vegas.

Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has also been hired by the village of Dolton to Henyard over the embezzling funds claims.
American workers have undergone challenges when seeking paid time off for mental health treatment due to things like medical professionals' assessments and rejections from insurance administrators.

US companies are required by law to take employees' mental health seriously, but a standard medical claim may lessen their chances of sick leave approval.

Insurers who've denied claims have said that the challenge of assessing symptom severity makes it more effective to visit a medical professional who treats patients and understands conditions.

They must also evaluate disability claims and factor in financial considerations against obligations to provide leave for employees when necessary, according to WSJ.

When an employee files a claim, the administrator will ask for evaluations, question the diagnoses, and request recommendations from physicians, therapists and psychiatrists, and ask workers to pay for neuropsychological testing.

Sick leave for mental health is hard to obtain due to the need of medical professionals' assessments and rejections from insurance administrators

COVID-19 played a role in the increase in individuals diagnosed with a mental illness.

Since the pandemic, companies like Google, LinkedIn, and Monzo have offered benefits for its employees to improve their mental health.

Some of the new benefits companies include in their employment packages are access to meditation and sleep apps, free therapy visits, and extra paid time off days.

Despite these benefit additions, work leaves due to mental health has continued to soar in the US.

Mental health-related work leaves increased by 33 percent in 2023 compared to 2022, according to ComPsych last February.

Female employees' work leave requests were a crucial part of this tally, as 69 percent of absences for mental health reasons were taken by women.

'Our data shows that millennial and Gen X women are most likely to need a mental health-related leave of absence,' Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz, Founder, CEO and Chairman of ComPsych said in a press release.

'HR teams must invest in resources and programming that relates to issues commonly faced by these demographics: from the pressures of managing teams, the stress of buying a home for the first time, acclimating back at work as a new parent, or worrying about care for aging relatives.'

Insurers who've denied claims said that the challenge of assessing symptom severity makes it more substantial to visit a medical professional

Disability claims for mental illness have also continued to increase in the US.

Around seven to 10 percent of long-term and short-term disability claims in recent years are related to mental health.

However, information on the reasons behind claim denial is not always available because officials are not required to provide that information to regulators, including the Labor Department.

Sedgwick claims administrator released their 2023 statistics, which confirmed that it turned down about 30 percent of mental health claims.

David Setzkorn, head of Sedgwicks workforce, told the WSJ that insufficient medical documentation was the primary reason for its denials.

'How do you medically prove some of these things? If I broke my arm, Ive got an X-ray that shows a broken bone,'. Phil Lacy, head of the health and productivity practice at consulting firm Marsh McLennan Agency told WSJ.

'But claims with subjective symptoms are very difficult, and its hard to get at the level of detail that helps you understand the severity.'

A study showed that 69 percent of work absences for mental health reasons were taken by woman in 2023

Another issue involves the courts and their decision to prohibit financial penalties for companies that turn down disability claims that should have been approved.

Lawyers even refuse to take on disability claim cases if the payouts without applying financial penalties are low.

Florida lawyer Eddie Dabdoub told the WSJ that just receiving and appealing claim denials can increase a client's symptoms if they are battling a mental illness.

Dabdoub recalled a time when he was the attorney for a sales representative at Salesforce who had bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.

The client had applied for long-term disability benefits last year under the company's plan, which is administered by MetLife.

While waiting for a decision, the sales representative participated in two outpatient programs and attended a hospitalization program as advised by medical professionals.

MetLife ended up not making a decision about the disability claim within a mandated 45-day window, which ultimately counted as a denial.

According to WSJ, Salesforce declined to comment on the matter, and a MetLife spokeswoman said the company doesn't comment on litigation.

Information on the reasons behind claim is not always available because officials are not required to provide that information to regulators

US employee Justin Gimotea began working as a social media manager for MillerKnoll furniture and design firm in 2020.

His responsibility load increased over time, and it was common for him to work 60-hour workweeks, according to the WSJ.

Gimotea had been battling various mental disorders, including generalized anxiety, for years prior to starting his management position.

Work pressure began to increase his symptoms, and per his doctor's recommendation, Gimotea took a leave of absence in 2023.

He filed a claim for temporary disability benefits to cover 70 percent of his salary, but his employer's insurance administrator, New York Life, rejected it months later.

According to Gimoteas case, the insurance administrator, New York Life, was 'contradicting medical advice.'

The social-media manager returned to work in December 2023, but MillerKnoll superiors let him go a month later.

Around seven to 10 percent of long-term and short-term disability claims in recent years are related to mental health

Gimotea sued the company and New York Life for employment discrimination, which was settled last April.

New York Life has denied Gimoteas allegations, according to WSJ.
A KFC worker who miraculously woke from a coma shortly before her life support machine was due to be switched off has spoken for the first time.

Relatives of 32-year-old Emma Price were told she was brain dead - but this week the patient stunned her family and medics by uttering her first words: 'Hi mum, hi dad.'

Ms Price, 32, attempted to take her own life after allegedly being bullied at work at KFC in Pitsea, Essex, her family say.

KFC said an 'urgent' investigation has been launched into the incident, and that maintaining a 'safe and inclusive' working environment is essential for the business.

Ms Price opened her eyes hours before her life support was due to be turned off last month, although the extent of her brain damage is yet to be known.

KFC team leader Emma Price (pictured) was in an induced coma after overdosing on painkiller medication having twice complained to managers that she was being treated unfairly

Emma (pictured), a 'homey' animal-lover, reached out to the mental health charity MIND and was due to have her first appointment with them on Monday, July 15

And after hearing her speak, mum Samantha Day, 56, said: 'I burst out crying, I bawled my eyes out: "oh my god, she is speaking."

'She had asked for the phone in hospital and said, "Hi mum, hi dad".

'My son cried, and I was crying, they were tears of joy and elation, I was gobsmacked.

'I said: "Emma, Emma, you're speaking," I couldn't describe it.

'We were just on the phone to the hospital, and they said: "Do you want to speak to her?'"

'That was the first time we heard her speak again.

'It was amazing, we called it our miracle and from the start, with doctors telling us the chances of her coming back were so slim.'

Although Ms Price can now speak, she is suffering the effects of brain damage, her family said.

Dad David Price, 60, said: 'Emma is speaking but it is slow and she gets confused.

'She has memory loss and she still can't stand or walk.

'She had a smile on her face yesterday when she was allowed a sip of Pepsi and she's had a yoghurt.

'She is taking tiny steps down a long road to recovery.'

However, the family are more confident than ever that she will make more improvements.

Ms Day added: 'We are so glad to have her back.

'I don't mind how she comes back, whether she speaks slower or cannot walk, we just want our Emma back and we hope she comes back soon.

'Every day there is an improvement, the support has been absolutely amazing for what has been done.

Emma's family, Essex, said her first words to them when waking from a coma were: 'hi mum, hi dad'

David Price (pictured with his daughter Emma) said 'he is taking tiny steps down a long road to recovery'

'We can't thank people enough and the interest there has been in Emma.'

Ms Price overdosed on painkiller medication having twice complained to managers that she was being treated unfairly.

But the KFC team leader was allegedly told she was 'causing trouble' and would regularly come home crying from the stress of being over-worked.

Ms Price had told loved ones that she was being overworked while other staff members did nothing and said she caught them talking about her behind her back.

She had been working at KFC for eight years as a team leader when she was subject to the alleged bullying which began in the latter half of 2023.

Ms Price, a 'homey' animal-lover, reached out to the mental health charity MIND and was due to have her first appointment with them on July 15.

KFC said: 'Our thoughts are with Emma and her family at this difficult time.

'Maintaining a working environment that is safe and inclusive for all team members is essential for us a business.

'These allegations are being taken extremely seriously and an urgent investigation into the matter is already underway.'
This Washington State camping site has been deemed one of the greatest places in the world this year as it provides the perfect oasis of forest and sea.

Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield is a 25-acre luxury campground in Long Beach that takes glamping to a whole new level and it has been named one of the 'World's Greatest Places of 2024' by Time Magazine.

The campsite was designed by Snow Peak, a Japanese outdoor brand, and uses the brand's high-quality gear to provide a luxurious experience without skimping on the hotel amenities.

Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield is right off the Pacific Ocean and is a drivable distance from Portland and Seattle.

The campsite is nestled between a chilly beach and a thick forest, according to Time.

Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield is a 25-acre luxury campground that takes glamping to a whole new level and it has been named one of the 'World's Greatest Places of 2024' by Time Magazine

Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield is right off the Pacific Ocean and is a drivable distance from Portland and Seattle

Although those camping out at the site won't want to even dip their toes in the chilly water, which rarely reaches above 70 degrees, they'll be surrounded by a beautiful forest that leaks tranquility and blissful silence.

Campers can enjoy hiking, whale-watching, kayaking, and crabbing while there.

However, it wouldn't be glamping if there wasn't manmade fun and leisure. After a long day of enjoying the great outdoors, customers can slip into a Japanese-style Ofuro Spa or stay in one of the 14 climate-controlled Jyubako micro-cabins, which were designed by Kengo Kuma, according to Time.

Campers can also stay in one of the 48 field sites or the eight tent suites, which include a mini kitchen and dining table.

The campsite is nestled between a chilly beach and a thick forest. Campers can enjoy hiking, whale-watching, kayaking, and crabbing while there

However, it wouldn't be glamping if there wasn't manmade fun and leisure. After a long day of enjoying the great outdoors, customers can slip into a Japanese-style Ofuro Spa or stay in one of the 14 climate-controlled Jyubako micro-cabins, which were designed by Kengo Kuma

Campers can also stay in one of the 48 field sites or the eight tent suites, which include a mini kitchen and dining table

While there, visitors can also enjoy wine tastings, live music, and bike excursions, according to KOMO News.

Snow Peak made the list among other more traditionally exotic places, such as the White Desert in Antarctica and Angama Amboseli, a crucial wildlife corridor in Kenya.

However, for those who prefer a more traditional place to visit, Vermelho Hotel in Portugal and San Ranch in Australia also made the list.

Even Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas ship made the cut.
Conservative leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick was today accused of 'textbook Islamophobia' after he claimed people shouting 'Allahu Akbar' should be arrested.

The former immigration minister sparked a fierce row after he criticised the policing of pro-Palestinian protests since the terror attacks on Israel on 7 October.

Mr Jenrick, who is bidding to replace Rishi Sunak as Tory leader, said it was 'quite wrong' that somebody could shout 'Allahu Akbar' and not be 'immediately arrested'.

His comments prompted outrage as critics pointed out that 'Allahu Akbar' translates as 'God is Great'.

Mr Jenrick later attempted to clarify that he was referring to 'aggressive chanting' that was 'intimidatory and threatening' but refused calls for him to apologise.

Conservative leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick has been accused of 'textbook Islamophobia' after he claimed people shouting 'Allahu Akbar' should be arrested

Tory peer Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, a former Conservative Party chair and the first female Muslim Cabinet minister, branded Mr Jenrick 'a tool'

Labour MP Naz Shah who is vice-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for British Muslims, slammed Mr Jenrick for 'complete ignorance' and 'textbook Islamophobia'

Labour MP Naz Shah who is vice-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for British Muslims, slammed Mr Jenrick for 'complete ignorance' and 'textbook Islamophobia'.

'Imagine in this climate, either being that ignorant or deliberately trying to stigmatise all Muslims,' she posted on social media.

'He should apologise and speak to Muslim communities and learn more about our faith.'

Tory peer Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, a former Conservative Party chair and the first female Muslim Cabinet minister, branded Mr Jenrick 'a tool'.

She said: 'Every day before we start parliamentary business in the Commons and Lords we say a prayer and praise God - we say our parliamentary version of Allah hu Akbars at the heart of democracy - a process Robert Jenrick is a part of.

'This language from Jenrick is more of his usual nasty divisive rhetoric - he is such a tool.'

Fellow Tory peer Lord Tariq Ahmad, a former Foreign Office minister, warned that Mr Jenrick's comments would 'fuel Islamophobia' at a time when 'communal tensions are high'.

He told the Conservative leadership contender: 'Don't try and 'qualify' your comments - just apologise!'

Mr Jenrick stirred up the row during an interview with Sky News this morning as he addressed Britain's ongoing riots.

Challenged about his past claims of 'two-tier policing', he said: 'I have been very critical of the police in the past, particularly around the attitude of some police forces to the protests we saw since October 7.

'I thought it was quite wrong that somebody could shout Allahu Akbar on the streets of London and not be immediately arrested, or project genocidal chants onto Big Ben and that person not be immediately arrested.

'That attitude is wrong and I will always call out the police for it.'

Following the backlash at his comments, Mr Jenrick attempted to clarify his comments in a social media post.

He wrote: ''Allahu Akbar' is spoken peacefully and spiritually by millions of British Muslims in their daily lives.

'But the aggressive chanting... is intimidatory and threatening. And it's an offence under Section 4 and 5 of the Public Order Act.

'Extremists routinely abuse common expressions for their own shameful ends. All violence must end. All violence must be called out.'

Baroness Warsi replied: 'No Robert you do not get to go on national broadcasters and say one thing and try and pretend you said something else after!

'If you genuinely feel your comments on were inappropriate, offensive, incendiary and anti Muslim (which they were) then start by apologising.

'Then you can go back to pretending you are a responsible candidate for the leadership of our party.

'Not prepared to let you and other colleagues get away with this gaslighting and playing these games any more - too much damage has already been done to our country and it deserves better than this populist nonsense.'
Tropical storm Debby has ravaged the Carolinas, with Charleston officials warning of unprecedented flooding as streets turned to rivers.

The weather system was swirling over coastal Georgia and Carolinas on Wednesday, its wide bands of rain swelling inland waterways before it slowly marches north.

Debby was expected to re-strengthen a little and turn north toward the South Carolina coastline before its center makes a second landfall late Wednesday or early Thursday, weather officials said.

The meandering storm  moving forward at just 4 mph Wednesday morning  has already drenched coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina with more than a foot of rain in places, stirring up tornadoes and submerging streets with waist-high floodwaters.

Footage posted to social media shows Charleston's streets submerged, with trash cans floating in the water, and flooded businesses

Charleston and Savannah, Georgia, were deluged Monday and Tuesday, and Charleston imposed a curfew in its downtown peninsula that lasted 32 hours before it was lifted Wednesday. Dozens of roads were closed because of flooding similar to what the city sees several times a year now because of rising sea levels.

Mayor Williams Cogswell said the closures avoided the need for water rescues and kept 'yahoos' from damaging properties by driving through flooded streets and pushing water over sandbags.

Footage posted to social media shows Charleston's streets submerged, with trash cans floating in the water, and flooded businesses.

But the storm's core was surrounded by drier air and the worst rainfall was falling hundreds of miles to the north, into eastern North Carolina before spreading into southeast Virginia. Both declared a state of emergency.

Forecasters warned 5 inches of rain could fall from South Carolina to Vermont through this weekend.

The area of most concern Wednesday was in southeastern North Carolina, where Hurricane Matthew caused a historic billion-dollar flood in 2016. Two years later, many of those records were broken during Hurricane Florence. Both storms killed dozens.

Forecasters warned 5 inches of rain could fall from South Carolina (pictured) to Vermont through this weekend

A vehicle is stuck on a flooded street due to Tropical Storm Debby on August 06 in Charleston

The National Weather Service warned up to 9 inches of rain could fall west of Wilmington, North Carolina, in areas that already saw heavy rains overnight.

Debbys center was about 90 miles east of Savannah on Wednesday morning, according to a bulletin from the National Hurricane Center. It had maximum sustained winds of 45 mph.

Green Pond in rural Colleton County, South Carolina, reported the most rain so far, just over 14 inches. 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.

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 weather service issued a flood watch until noon Wednesday for the entire city.

Debbys center was about 90 miles east of Savannah on Wednesday morning. Flooded Charleston is pictured

Charleston imposed a curfew in its downtown peninsula that lasted 32 hours before it was lifted Wednesday

Emergency officials warned of potential flash flooding, flying drones with loudspeakers in some New York City neighborhoods to tell people in basement apartments to be ready to flee at a moments notice.

Severe thunderstorms soaked most of New Jersey on Tuesday night, causing moderate flooding in many areas and leaving thousands without power.

More than two inches of rain fell in several areas, and as much as six inches was recorded in some southern Jersey communities. Forecasters said the storms were enhanced by moisture drifting up from Tropical Storm Debby. No injuries were reported.

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
This is the moment a furious Vladimir Putin was told that 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers had fought their way 'deep' inside Russian territory for the first time in the war.

Earlier today, Putin declared that Ukraine carried out a 'large-scale provocation' following a daring surprise assault on Russia's border region of Kursk, which saw thousands evacuated.

Now, it has been revealed by Russia's chief of the general staff General Valery Gerasimov that 1,000 troops of the Armed Forces of Ukraine went on the offensive to seize a section of territory in the Sudzhinsky district of Kursk.

In an emergency meeting with the Russian Security Council, a frustrated Putin can be heard asking his colleagues to report on the situation in Kursk.

General Gerasimov - speaking by video from an operational control point - had the unenviable task of describing the Ukrainian soldier's advances before claiming with little evidence that the surprise thrust had been stopped.

Vladimir Putin looked absolutely furious during an emergency meeting with the Russian Security Council as he was told about Ukrainian troops' advances

Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff of Russia's Armed Forces, confessed to Putin that 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers had fought their way 'deep' inside Russian territory for the first time in the war

Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, pictured, is seen by some analysts as the target of the incursion

In a security council session with humiliated dictator Putin, Gerasimov (pictured on the big screen) claimed the surprise Ukrainian thrust had been stopped

A look at the route the Ukrainian soldiers took to make their way inside the Kursk region

'Units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, numbering up to 1,000 men, went on the offensive in order to seize a section of territory in the Sudzhinsky district of Kursk region,' he said.

'Through the actions of units covering the State border along with border guards and reinforcement units, air strikes, missile forces and artillery fire, the enemy's advance deep into the territory in the Kursk city direction was halted.'

While his general speaks, a humiliated-looking Putin can be seen with a stony expression.

Gerasimov goes on to add that Ukraine suffered 315 losses with 100 killed and 215 wounded.

'Fifty-four units of armoured vehicles, including seven tanks, were destroyed,' he said. 'The operation will be completed by defeating the enemy and reaching the state border.'

Far from being repulsed - as Moscow had earlier announced - more than three times the number of soldiers earlier suggested were discovered ten miles inside the border.

Moscow boosted security at the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant - seen by some analysts as the target of the incursion - deploying Pantsir-S1 air defence systems.

Yet national guardsmen at the atomic plant were moved to the border 'leaving only women... protecting the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant', according to an insider.

Russia is pouring in reinforcements but it is already known that Ukraine is in control of key Sudzha gas metering station, which is used as a gas transit to Europe through Ukraine.

Residents of Kursk region urgently evacuated as Russian and Ukrainian armies clash at the border of the Kursk region

Ukraine is believed to be in control of key Sudzha gas metering station, pictured, which is used as a gas transit to Europe through Ukraine

Vladimir Putin declared earlier that Ukraine carried out a 'large-scale provocation' following a daring surprise assault

This potentially gives Kyiv the ability to disrupt existing exports still flowing despite sanctions.

Pro-war hardline military commentators slammed the high command in the Russian army and defence ministry for failing to counter the Ukrainians.

One furious resident in Sudzha complained: 'Where is our vaunted army? Where is the air defence.? We have nothing there.'

The Ukrainians are some 40 miles from the power plant. One pro-war 'Z'-blogger said: 'But [ten miles] was still a lot yesterday, and the [Ukrainians] covered this distance in 24 hours.

'I really hope that everyone understands this and measures will be taken.'

In a televised meeting with government officials, Putin said earlier: 'As you know, the Kyiv regime has undertaken another large-scale provocation.

'It is firing indiscriminately from various types of weapons, including rockets, at civilian buildings, residential houses and ambulances.'

Ukraine's regional governor Volodymyr Artyukh said in a statement: 'I have just signed the order to introduce a mandatory evacuation of 23 settlements from five communities in the Sumy district.'

A heavily damaged building in the region, which borders Ukraine, after Tuesday's incursion

Damage in the town of Sudzha on August 6 following Ukrainian shelling, according to Smirnov

He added that the measure applied to roughly '6,000 people, including 425 children.'

Moscow has said it had sent reserves to help repel hundreds of Ukrainian fighters backed by tanks, in a ground incursion that is shaping up to be one the largest into Russian territory during the war.

On Tuesday, the Russian army and security agencies were wrong footed by a breakthrough on the Kursk region frontier, which had been guarded by lightly armed conscripts, several of whom were captured.

The Russian defence ministry announced it had deployed air and artillery firepower to try to quash Ukrainian troops breaking into the Kursk border region.

'The operation for the destruction of Ukrainian army units is continuing,' the defence ministry said on social media Wednesday.

'The enemy's movement further into Russian territory has been prevented,' it added.

Heavy clashes are expected today as forces from Ukraine - possibly both army and anti-Putin Russian partisans - seek to press deeper into the region.

Kursk regional governor Alexei Smirnov said 'several thousand' people had been evacuated from the region and all mass gatherings had been cancelled.

'Over the course of the last day, with our help, several thousand people left the shelling zone by personal transport,' Smirnov said in a video message on Telegram.

But he added: 'The situation in the region is under control'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged to support the region 'on all fronts', he said in the video.

Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the incursion, the most serious in months.

Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak alluded to the attacks, on social media, without specifically mentioning them. Moscow had used its 'border regions with impunity for massive air and artillery attacks', he said.

President Vladimir Putin pictured during his meeting with ministers at Novo-Ogaryovo State Residence in Moscow

There were a flurry of warnings today that Ukraine may intend the audacious capture or encirclement of Kursk Nuclear Power Plant (NPP)

Ukraine launched the incursion across the Russian border around 5am GMT on Tuesday

Official Russian social media accounts said up to 300 Ukrainian fighters, backed by tanks, had attacked border units in two localities in Kursk - Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya.

Moscow lost two Ka-52 helicopters - one suspected downed by an FPV drone was shown burning, as Moscow, which daily bombards Ukrainian civilians and territory, raged against a 'terrorist attack'.

Overnight, the region was hit with waves of drone attacks, according to the local governor, with defence systems destroying at least five.

Five people were killed and 28 wounded, and the surprise incursion has reportedly forced Russian authorities to evacuate several border settlements.

The defence ministry said there had been losses on the Ukrainian side of 260 soldiers and 50 armoured vehicles, including seven tanks and eight armoured personnel carriers.

There were a flurry of warnings today that Ukraine's intention behind the unprecedented thrust into Russian territory may be to capture or encircle the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant (NPP).

Such an audacious plan could then use it as a bargaining chip to negotiate with Putin about ceding control of Zaporizhzhia NPP - held by Russia since the start of the war.

Videos reportedly showed the overnight shelling of Kurchatov, the town around the Kursk atomic plant, some 31 miles in a straight line - but further by road - from the Ukrainian incursion across the border.

'Nuclear blackmail,' posted Dmitry Rogozin, a senator who was previously Putin's deputy prime minister and head of the Russian Space Agency.

'This is something that all the world's media will definitely trumpet about. That's what they [the Ukrainians] are counting on.'

He demanded a ruthless response to wipe out Ukrainians crossing the frontier.

Smoke billows on the Kursk border region as Russia claimed Ukraine had launched an assault

War correspondent Yuri Kotenok posted: 'The nuclear power plant in Kurchatov is an object that has long been the object of desire of the Ukrainian military elite and their curators.'

Despite the warnings, in posts on the Telegram messaging app, the acting governor of the southwestern Russian region, insisted the situation was 'controllable.'

Ukraine launched several waves of drones, prompting at least a dozen air raid alerts over the past 24 hours, Alexei Smirnov's posts stated.

Five people were killed, including two ambulance crew, with at least 20 wounded, among them six children, in the fighting that erupted on Tuesday, Russian officials said.

Ukraine made no official comment, though there was evidence of some military action from its side of the border. Both Kyiv and Moscow say their attacks do not target civilians.

The Ukrainian army 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.

The breakthrough into Russia highlighted how Putin had lied to his people over not sending raw conscripts to the war zone and border areas.

Damage to buildings allegedly caused during a Ukrainian attack over the border on Tuesday

Social media footage shows a truck on fire after the Kursk region border incursion on Tuesday

Several Russian conscripts were shown on videos after they were captured at border points.

One, Danil Kolesnikov, 22, a private, served in regiment 488, was held guarding the border at Sudzha.

'I was taken prisoner by Ukrainian troops at the border crossing,' he said, indicating that he - like others - had been abandoned by their commanders.

Asked by his Ukrainian captors his feelings about Putin and his war, the conscript said: 'Well, of course war is always a ****ed up ******* thing. It's always bad.

'Especially, in my own Belgorod region so many corpses, all the s*** it's not supported.'

Another Maxim Emelyanin, 21, from the distant Komi republic in the far north of Russia, said the conscripts had demanded to be taken away from the border point in line with Putin's promise on the deployment of conscripts.

But they were left there. Asked if they were abandoned, he said: 'It goes like this.'

He was asked: 'How do you feel about your superiors?' He replied: 'Negative.'

'How do you feel about the war in Ukraine?' to which he said: 'I have a negative attitude towards the war.

'And Putin?' they asked. 'Putin? I don't know.'

He said he did 'not exactly' support what his president was doing, adding: 'I had been avoiding the army altogether [but was conscripted in the end].'

Social media footage shows damage to a residential building in the region

Pictures shared after yesterday's border breakthrough show damage to buildings

Another theory is that Ukraine may seek to disrupt Russian gas exports via Kursk region.

Reports indicated that Ukraine had occupied the settlements of Daryevka, Gogolevka, and Sverdlikovo.=

The border town of Sudzha was badly blitzed with most residents evacuating.

Administrative and residential buildings and the infectious diseases department of the city hospital were damaged, reported Izvestia.

Previously, forces describing themselves as voluntary paramilitaries fighting on Ukraine's side inflicted minimal damage in a major incursion into parts of Belgorod and Kursk region this year, but the purpose of the raids remains unclear.

On Tuesday, Ukraine's general staff made no mention of any Ukrainian offensive operation inside Russia.

Throughout the more than two years of war, Ukraine's efforts have largely been focused on fighting back Russian forces who control nearly a fifth of its territory 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 British businesswoman accused of being the first person to post false information that the Southport stabbings suspect was an asylum seeker who had arrived in Britain by boat says she is 'mortified' by what happened.

Just hours after three girls were murdered at a Taylor Swift dance workshop last Monday, Bernadette Spofforth posted on X the wrong name of the boy accused of carrying out the attacks.

Before the victims had been identified, Mrs Spofforth, 55, wrote at 4.49pm: 'Ali Al-Shakati was the suspect, he was an asylum seeker who came to the UK by boat last year and was on an MI6 watch list. If this is true, then all hell is about to break loose.'

The false information, including what is believed to be a fictitious name, spread rapidly around social media, sparking far-right anti-immigration riots across the country.

Since last Monday's atrocity, Axel Rudakubana, from the village of Banks, Lancashire, has been charged with the murders of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar; 10 counts of attempted murder; and possession of a bladed article.

British businesswoman Bernadette Spofforth has been accused of being the first person to post false information that the Southport stabbings suspect was an asylum seeker who had arrived in Britain by boat

Bernadette posted on X the wrong name of the boy accused of carrying out the attacks just hours after three girls were murdered at a Taylor Swift dance workshop last Monday

Axel Rudakubana, from the village of Banks, Lancashire, has been charged with the murders of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar

Rudakubana, who turned 18 today, was one of two brothers born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents who had migrated to the UK in 2002 in search of a better life.

Responding to the mass rioting that took place in response to the incorrect information spread on social media, Mrs Spofforth told MailOnline: 'I'm mortified that I'm being accused of this. I did not make it up. I first received this information from somebody in Southport.'

She added: 'My post had nothing to do with the violence we've seen across the country. But I acknowledge that it may have been the source for the information used by a Russian news website.'

Ms Spofforth is the managing director of a clothing company and lives in a 1.5million farmhouse in Cheshire.

Ms Spofforth is a prominent campaigner against lockdowns and net-zero climate schemes and had tens of thousands of followers on X before she deleted her account.

MailOnline was able to establish her identify after conducting an extensive trawl of X posts featuring the name Ali Al-Shakti which showed that hers was the first.

When challenged about this, Ms Spofforth claimed that she had seen someone else post the name on X but was unable to provide any evidence.

Riot police hold back protesters near a burning police vehicle after disorder broke out on July 30 in Southport

Mrs Spofforth, 55, says she is 'mortified' by what happened and claimed she did not make the information up

Ms Spofforth is the managing director of a clothing company

Her post was deleted an hour after it appeared but by then the false information was widely repeated by far-right social media activists such as Tommy Robinson and Andrew Tate.

It is also believed to have been used as a source for an article published by the Russian-linked Channel 3 Now website which was extensively retweeted.

Channel 3 Now later removed the article and apologised.

Ms Spofforth told The Times: 'Yes I did [post it] It was a spur of the moment ridiculous thing to do, which has literally destroyed me.

'It was just a mistake. I did a really stupid stupid thing, I copied and pasted it from what I saw, and I added the line 'if this is true.'

She added: 'I think it is very easy for a situation which is very emotional and very heightened, so you can end up believing what you're seeing. People should be very careful about putting what they think is true without doing the research.'
A Missouri Republican who took the abrasive campaign strategy of telling her voters to not be 'weak and gay' and torched LGBTQ books has learned her political fate.

Valentina Gomez, a 25-year-old real estate investor, caused controversy when she posted a campaign video disparaging gay voters.

'In America, you can be anything you want, so dont be weak and gay,' Gomez said while jogging in a bulletproof vest in a stunning campaign video. 'Stay f***ing hard.'

The candidate also stirred up drama after posting a video burning LGBTQ books she called 'indoctrinating and sexualizing.'

It turns out Gomez was seemingly not a strong enough candidate and lost her GOP primary Tuesday, only securing seven percent of the vote.

She did not win a single county, sealing her embarrassing defeat after her loud-mouthed campaign antics.

Gomez lost her bid for Missouri Secretary of State after an outlandish campaign where she insulted voters and burnt books

Republican Denny Hoskins beat seven candidates, including Gomez, to secure the GOP's backing before the November election.

He won with 24 percent of the vote. Gomez, meanwhile, secured the fifth most amount of votes from Missouri Republicans, according to local outlet KSDK.

Since her loss, Gomez has not posted a statement addressing the outcome of the race.

She did, however, post a video of her allegedly catching a pedophile on the night of her election.

'One down, many more to go,' she said in a video posted Tuesday on X showing a man getting apprehended by police behind her.

'I don't care where the pedophiles are hiding whether they are in our churches, schools or government,' she said. 'We're coming for you and every single citizen across the entire country needs to step up.'

Antics like catching a pedophile were the main entree offered by Gomez's campaign, not a side, leading to her gaining much notoriety during her bid.

Protect the children at all costs. Pedophile catch party with @iFightForKids  pic.twitter.com/XQEUg2hKQ1  Valentina Gomez (@ValentinaForUSA) August 7, 2024

Chief among them was when she shared footage of herself setting two LGBTQ-inclusive books on fire in February, characterizing the literature as 'grooming, indoctrinating and sexualizing'.

'When Im 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,' both stances playing central roles in her failed campaign.

Gomez is a prominent gun rights advocate who frequently posts pictures of herself holding and shooting firearms

Gomez took a flamethrower to 'grooming, indoctrinating and sexualizing' books in a viral video shared as part of her campaign

Her social media bio reads: 'Jesus is King. MAGA. America First'

Gomez has also expressed admiration for Andrew Tate who is accused of human trafficking in Romania.

Gomez attracted lots of attention for her controversial stances and provocative videos

According to her LinkedIn, she has worked at Nestle Purina since October 2021.

Viewers quickly went to work responding to her latest campaign video, posted May 12, with many people calling her 'cringe' and 'pathetic' for running around with a bulletproof vest.

Liberal radio host John Shannon wrote: 'Nothing displays weakness more than taking a morning jog with a Kevlar vest on.'

There were some replies supporting her, but they were buried amid an onslaught of attacks and jokes at her expense.

Gomez, a Colombia native, is on the ballot in the August 6 GOP primary to choose the candidate for secretary of state

Gomez has garnered a reputation for wading into conservative culture war issues - one of her favorites includes protecting children from the 'transgender agenda,' as she puts it on her campaign website.

She attacked transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney ahead of Mulvaney's speech to students at Saint Louis University, a Jesuit college in St. Louis.

'That dude is mocking women,' Gomez said in a video filmed in front of the university's campus.

'It doesn't matter how many surgeries, shots, or hormones you get, a man will never become a woman.'

Gomez is seen with former presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy

Gomez has garnered a reputation for wading into conservative culture war issues

Gomez 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 had floated plans to revamp the electoral system.

She believes the 2020 election was stolen from former President Donald Trump, which possibly informs her idea to 'remove electronic voting machines to successfully transition towards universal paper ballot hand counting,' per her campaign website.
Governor Tim Walz was known as the 'Top Gun' Democrat in Congress

When Vice President Kamala Harris introduced Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday in Philadelphia, she shared some anecdotes about his life including one about his time in Congress.

'He was known as one of Capitol Hill's best marksmen, winning a bipartisan sharp-shooting contest year after year,' Harris said.

Democrats are not typically known for toting guns, but for the Minnesota governor who served in Congress for six terms, shooting gave him a way to reach across the aisle in Washington and enjoy time with GOP colleagues.

Walz was the Democratic co-chair of the Congressional Sportsmens Caucus and became known as a 'Top Gun' Democrat for winning shooting competitions.

Then-Congressman Tim Walz speaking to people at a campaign event in Duluth, MN in 2016. Walz was known that year as the 'Top Gun' Democrat for winning shooting competitions

Every year, the caucus would join up with the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation to put aside partisanship for the friendly shooting competition with rounds of trap, skeet and clays.

Walz was the winner of the 'Top Gun' Democrat in the individual category in both 2015 and 2016.

'I think I won one year, [and] he won one year,' former Rep. Collin Peterson (D-Minn.), who won the competition the year before Walz, told the Wall Street Journal. 'He was very much a moderate.'

That was not Walz only association with guns as a member of Congress in which he served from 2007 until he became Minnesota governor in 2019.

Then-Rep. Tim Walz on Capitol Hill in 2016. Early in his political career, he was backed by the NRA and received an A rating

Governor Tim Walz carrying a gun as he went pheasant hunting in October 2023

Having grown up in rural Nebraska and represented Minnesota's first congressional district in the mostly rural southern part of the state, he would talk about how he enjoyed hunting and other recreational outdoor activity.

Early in his political career, he was endorsed by the National Rifle Association (NRA) which gave him an A rating and contributed to his campaign.

In 2016, Guns and Ammo Magazine included him in their top twenty politicians for gun owners, writing 'while most congressional Democrats have jumped on the gun control train with both feet, Tim Walz and a few others have stuck to their guns.'

But Walz's tune on gun reforms changed over the years with the escalating number of mass shooting.

In October of 2017, he announced he would donate all of the campaign contributions from the NRA to charity after a shooter in Las Vegas killed 59 people at a music festival. At the time, Walz was running in the Democratic primary for governor.

In 2018, after the Parkland high school shooting in Florida left seventeen dead including 14 students, Walz called for an assault weapons ban in Minnesota.

In his State of the State address last year, Walz mentioned being a hunter and gun owner but said as a dad and former teacher, weapons have no place in schools, churches and places people are trying to live without fear.

'I got an A rating from the NRA my first term in Congress,' he said. 'Now I get straight Fs, and I sleep just fine.'

Earlier this year, Minnesota strengthening its firearm straw purchases law and other reporting requirements.

Kamala Harris introducing Tim Walz as her running mate in Philadelphia on August 6, 2024

In her introduction of Walz Tuesday, Harris mentioned his 'Top Gun' status, but she also highlighted his work on gun control.

'Tim is a hunter and a gun owner who believes, as the majority of gun owners do, that we need reasonable gun safety laws in America,' she said.

'So as governor, he expanded background checks and increased penalties for illegal firearm sales, and together, when we win in November, we are finally going to pass universal background checks, red flag laws, and an assault weapons ban.'

In his own debut as her running mate, Walz noted being 'one of the best shots in Congress.'

'In Minnesota, we believe in the Second Amendment, but we also believe in common sense gun violence laws,' he added.

After Walz was announced as Harris' running mate, the NRA released a statement blasting the governor it once supported.

'Tim Walz is a political chameleon  changing his positions to further his own personal agenda,' said Randy Kozuch, Chairman of the NRA Political Victory Fund, in a statement.

'In Congress, Walz purported to be a friend of gun owners to receive their support in his rural Minnesota district,' he went on .'Once he had his eyes set on other offices, he sold out law-abiding Minnesotans and promoted a radical gun control agenda that emboldened criminals and left everyday citizens defenseless.'
A Just Stop Oil protestor is facing jail after admitting to causing over 100,000 of damage to the HM Treasury building by throwing red paint over the masonry.

Piers Clifford, 62, teamed up with Alexia Hall, 37, and Selma Heimedinger, 23 for the stunt which caused 107,750.40 of damage to the masonry of the historic building in Whitehall, according to the charges.

The 62-year-old appeared at Southwark Crown Court on Wednesday to offer a revised plea to the charge.

He previously pleaded not guilty to the offence on 10 March 2023 at Westminster Magistrates Court.

His criminal damage charge was put to him by a court clerk, who said: The particulars of the offence are on the 13 June 2022 you, without lawful excuse, damaged 1 Horse Guard road London SW1A 2HQ belonging to government property agency intending to destroy or damage such property, or being reckless as to whether such property would be destroyed or damaged.

Piers Clifford, 62, faces jail after admitting to causing over a 100k worth of damage to the HM Treasury building in Whitehall during a Just Stop Oil protest

Clifford teamed up with other JSO eco-zealots to spray paint over the masonry of the historic building in Westminster, central London

The stunt cost a total of 107,750.40 in damage to the government building

In response to the charge, Clifford announced: Guilty.

Judge David Tomlinson told Clifford that he would now be sentenced with his co-defendants Hall and Heimedinger.

He said: Conventionally where more than one defendant is indicted for an offence, we tend to put sentence back for anyone who pleads guilty until the conclusion of the trial of other defendants who have pleaded not guilty.

The court heard that Hall and Heimedinger will attend a pre-trial review at Southwark Crown Court in September, before facing trial at the same court in January 2025.

Asked by the judge if he would like to proceed with sentencing before then, Clifford - representing himself - answered that he would.

Clifford told the judge that he would like his sentencing expedited, rather than delayed to be with that of his fellow demonstrators who will face trial next January

Staff clear up red paint sprayed by Just Stop Oil activists outside the HM Treasury building

He said: On a personal and emotional basis, the stress of not knowing whats going to happen makes me unable to really carry on in my life.

Clifford added that he was in a process of recovery and rehabilitation after being involved in Extinction Rebellion and, to a lesser extent, Just Stop Oil for many years.

The court heard that Clifford is currently homeless and in the process of trying to find somewhere to live in Sheffield.

Clifford, of no fixed address, admitted one charge of criminal damage to property with a value of over 5000.
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 Canada becoming the latest nation caution their citizens on the state of Britain.

As of Wednesday afternoon, eight nations have warned their citizens to avoid certain areas, and to stay safe as police are bracing for 100 more riots all over Britain tonight.

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.'

Police officers face protesters outside the Royal Liver Building in Liverpool on August 3 during the 'Enough is Enough' demonstration

A masked rioter runs in front of a bonfire in the middle of the road in Rotherham on Sunday

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.'

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.'

Police hold back anti-migration protesters during confrontation on the seafront promenade, on August 04, 2024 in Weymouth

Nearly 6,000 public order officers have now been mobilised to respond to riots over, police sources have told the BBC. Pictured: Police officers clash with protesters during the Enough is Enough protest in Whitehall, London

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.

Canada

New travel advice issued by the Canadian government on Wednesday warns of travel to the UK 'due to ongoing demonstrations and violent clashes between protesters and police'.

Canada urges its citizens to 'exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism'.

In regards to demonstrations, it advises Canadians to avoid areas where protests and large gatherings take place, to exercise caution, expect an increased security force presence in areas where demonstrations are taking place and to follow the instructions of local authorities.
The subway system in the nation's capital has failed to ensure safety measures are in place and is so understaffed that some employees are operating trains drunk, a watchdog audit found.

The Washington Metrorail Safety Commission discussed the results of it's D.C. Metro safety report on Tuesday, reported The Washington Post.

One incident in the report involved a drunk train operator driving an Orange Line train for two hours on September 10.

The operator finished a shift the night before then drank alcohol and slept for a few hours before clocking back in for an overtime shift at 5:45 a.m. the next day.

'There's nothing in place to keep a train operator from working as many consecutive days as he wants,' said Robert Lauby, a commissioner on the board.

The Washington DC Metro system has failed to ensure safety measures are in place and is so understaffed that some employees are operating trains drunk, a watchdog found

Another incident in November involved two trains coming within 150 of colliding at the Huntington metro station because of a misaligned switch.

The supervisor who put the switch in the wrong direction was working his 11th consecutive day, according to the report.

The report also found there is inconsistent adherence to rules, outdated safety information, poor hazard tracking and inadequate training throughout the Metrorail.

In one instance, on June 20 a train that should have stopped instead received a command allowing it to go 55 mph, reported WJLA.

A northbound Blue Line train with passengers was traveling in Alexandria when it approached a switch south of the King Street station and should have received a command to stop.

Instead, they were told they could go as fast as up to 55 mph and almost collided with another train.

In November, two trains coming within 150 of colliding at the Huntington metro station because of a misaligned switch

The investigation found employees accidentally overrode the Automatic Train Protection system, which prevents trains from colliding, during routine maintenance testing.

D.C. Metro workers are required to get eight hours off every 16 hours and every 12 hours for controllers, but that that break includes all time between shifts leaving some with only a few hours to sleep.

The union representing workers and the Metro are currently in contract negotiations.

'The safety of riders and workers are among our highest priorities,' a union spokesperson told The Post.
Hogan is running for Senate in Maryland against Democrat Angela Alsobrooks

The Republican Party has a woman problem. Ex-Maryland Republican Gov. Larry Hogan has a solution: don't be weird.

Donald Trump, J.D. Vance and down-ballot conservatives are facing an uphill challenge of winning over the female vote in November.

Vance's recent comments criticizing 'childless cat ladies' have earned him flak on both sides of the aisle. Hogan and others fear it may further alienate the critical voting block from the GOP.

It's earned him the descriptor of 'weird,' first coined by Gov. Tim Walz, the newly minted VP candidate who Hogan counts as a friend.

'I'm not weird,' Hogan, who is embarked on an unabashedly centrist Senate campaign, deadpanned in an interview with DailyMail.com. 'I'm not in favor of weird.'

Republicans who want to draw in female voters 'have got to be more like me' he added, as Kamala Harris currently holds a 13-point lead over former President Donald Trump with female voters.

'I'm not weird,' Hogan, who is now embarked on an unabashedly centrist Senate campaign, deadpanned in an interview with DailyMail.com. 'I'm not in favor of weird'

As a Republican running in solid-blue Maryland, Hogan has uniquely situated himself as one of the last remaining vocal anti-Trump Republicans.

He's signaled he'd like to restore Roe v. Wade at a time when most Republicans say abortion should be left to the states.

Hogan told DailyMail.com he won't be voting for Trump or Harris this cycle, but declined to reveal who he would write in for president on his ballot.

'I just don't think those are the two best people to represent America,' he said as he visited tents of local businesses in Olney, Maryland in a celebration for National Night Out.

Between 2016 and 2020, Trump narrowed his gender gap: he won 44 percent of women votes in 2020 compared to 39 percent in 2016.

Although recent polling suggests that Harris has a 13-point lead with women over Trump, she's losing men by nine points.

Democrats hope the overturning of Roe v. Wade and recent comments about women can undo Trump's progress with women.

Vance has been forced to defend comments he made years ago knocking 'childless cat ladies' and in 2020 quipping that the 'most psychotic' and 'most deranged' online commentators were typically childless.

'I didn't think some some of the comments from the former president or the new potential vice president were all that helpful, obviously,' Hogan said.

'Obviously, it was a sarcastic comment. I've got nothing against cats,' Vance quipped recently about the remarks. He said they were not about criticizing people without children but the Democrats' 'anti-family' policies.

Walz, the current Minnesota governor, first popularized the put-down of 'weird' last month.

'We do not like what has happened, when you can't even go to Thanksgiving dinner with your uncle because you end up in some weird fight that is unnecessary,' the Minnesota governor said on July 23 on MSNBC's 'Morning Joe.'

'Well, it's true. These guys [Republicans] are weird.'

Hogan took heat from fellow Republicans for congratulating Walz for being picked as Harris' running mate.

'I want to extend my congratulations to Governor Walz,' he wrote on X. 'I have always appreciated his dedication to public service. I believe we need more governors at the national level because governors have to actually get stuff done. I wish Tim and his family well.'

Suburban women - a long-coveted demographic by both Democrats and Republicans - can often make or break an election. Biden won their support in crucial swing states last go-around.

'In some cases, [Republicans] are on the wrong side on some of the issues,' Hogan said. I've always defended a woman's right to choose and that's what I did for eight years as governor, what I promised to do, I promised to restore Roe v. Wade. So I think that's a big part of it.'

Democrats hope the overturning of Roe v. Wade and recent comments about women can undo Trump's progress with women

That's not to discount that 'women care about the same issues everybody else does,' he says. 'Affordability and the economy, they care about crime and their neighborhoods.'

And conservatives' struggles with women are not going away. Democrats led Republicans with 18-29-year-old women by nearly 50 points and 30-44-year-old women by 16 points, according to a Brookings analysis of 2022 exit polling.

The overturning of Roe months before the election was widely attributed with turning the expected 'red wave' in the House into a red ripple, and Republicans losing control of the Senate.

Hogan served as governor of the state from 2015 to 2023. Despite wide popularity as governor, he's trailing behind Democrat Angela Alsobrooks in the polls in the race for U.S. Senate.
An absentee landlord has been banned from using Airbnb to rent out his property on Edinburgh's most 'Instagrammable' street - after neighbours complained over parties, photoshoots and even weddings being held on their doorsteps.

Robert Murray clashed with locals on scenic Circus Lane after they complained about guests holding parties in his two-bedroomed home.

But he continued to advertise on the platform in defiance of a notice served on him by City of Edinburgh Council last year.

The landlord even appealed to the Scottish Government in a bid to overturn the ban - as he argued short-stay commercial visits did not breach planning laws.

But a reporter ruled the notice must be enforced and agreed that Airbnb visitors had a 'significant' impact on the mews street, where homes are sold for 1.5million.

An appeal document on Murray's behalf said: 'The appellant is willing to consider a further reduction in the intensity of use, which could be achieved by, for example, increasing the minimum nightly stay requirement, or further limiting the scope of the property's availability on the rental market.'

Robert Murray clashed with locals on scenic Circus Lane (pioctured) after they complained about guests holding parties in his two-bedroomed home

A tourist walks down Circus Lane in Edinburgh in Scottish tartan as she visits the northern capital

A woman from Hong Kong takes a snap in front of a historical-looking street in Edinburgh

A woman poses on the 'Instagrammable street' before posting it to social media

A woman lies in the middle of Circus Lane, disregarding road safety, as she tries to get a good photograph in the Scottish capital

It added: 'The appellant's strong assertion is that the enforcement notice references matters which were not taking place when it was issued.

'Otherwise, it is asserted that the matters in question do not constitute a breach of planning control.

'Otherwise, and finally, it is asserted that complete cessation of all short-term letting, as demanded by the enforcement notice is excessive in terms of what is necessary to remedy the alleged breach of planning control or perceived harm to amenity.'

Neighbours told officials the high turnover of guests and visitors to 33 Circus lane were making their lives a misery.

And while they say they can endure the endless tourists trooping down the street, the noise of boozy parties has been too much for them to bear.

Mike Scott said: 'It is widely known that Circus Lane has become something of an Instagram sensation and has a daily procession of visitors, photo-shooters and is even on the School Trip map.

'Most permanent residents, including ourselves, are quite happy with the transient nature of these visitors and are happy to engage with respectful visitors who tend to amble down the Lane and I very much enjoy and take pride in their presence.

'The Airbnbers are an entirely different proposition and tend to arrive in party mode laden down with supermarket-bought food and alcohol, often staying up late and partying.

The picturesque cobbled street nestles between Edinburgh's New Town and Stockbridge, and was first used by stable workers in the 1760s

A woman wears a black dress and black boots as she poses for photos on the cobbles

A woman looks into the distance as she is dressed for winter on the Scottish city street

In 2018, Edinburgh City Council released the report Managing Our Festival City following an increase in visitors (pictured on Circus Lane)

'Given the extremely close nature of a mews lane this noise permeates every neighbouring property and efforts to involve the police and council at the time of disturbance have unfortunately proven futile over the years.'

The picturesque cobbled street nestles between Edinburgh's New Town and Stockbridge, and was first used by stable workers in the 1760s.

Reporter Martin H Seddon ruled: 'The council's assessment of the use of the property, based upon the Airbnb listing indicated a significant intensity of use, with three-night minimum stays and 276 reviews.

'That reflects a significant amount of change-overs in a year and demonstrates an intensity of use by short term let visitors that would have a much greater impact on the amenity of neighbours than would be generated by normal domestic use.'

He added: 'I conclude that the character and intensity of the use of the property for short term let accommodation entails a significant variation from normal residential activity.'

In 2018, Edinburgh City Council released the report Managing Our Festival City following an increase in visitors.

It said: 'Pavement crowding is a very real concern for residents and visitors in the city centre, during the summer (and winter) festival periods.

'Overcrowding at certain pinch-points can lead to pedestrians stepping onto the road and into bus lanes.'

In response, the council created a 16-point scorecard system to monitor the most overcrowded parts of the city.
A man who was seen carrying a wooden stick at a counter-protest has denied possessing an offensive weapon - claiming he had a 'reasonable excuse' to carry the item as a religious staff.

Shehraz Sarwar, 46, will face trial next month at Birmingham Magistrates' Court after being caught on TV coverage in Birmingham.

The charge against him alleges that he was in possession of the stick, which had cord wrapped around it, without lawful authority or reasonable excuse at a gathering in Belchers Lane, Bordesley Green, at about 5pm on Monday.

Sarwar's court appearance came as the West Midlands police and crime commissioner Simon Foster issued a call for people to stand together and to avoid protests and gatherings in the region.

A 20-minute hearing at Birmingham Magistrates' Court was told Sarwar, from Saltley, was identified by neighbourhood officers from a Sky News still.

The hearing was told Sarwar claims to have carried the stick locally for more than 11 years and says he is a 'well-known character' in the Saltley and Alum Rock areas.

Sarwar, who is not accused of any involvement in violent disorder, said 'I never done nothing, judge' and 'Give me a chance' as he was remanded in custody until a second bail hearing on August 15.

Shehraz Sarwar, 46, will face trial next month at Birmingham Magistrates' Court after being caught on TV coverage in Birmingham

Young men, some in masks, gathered outside a Mcdonalds in Bordesley Green amid rumours of a far-right gathering

Some protesters donned masks to stand on the roundabout - as many have in the riots seen in recent days

A trial date was set for September 23.

West Midlands Police are investigating other incidents connected to disorder in the area around the Belchers Lane counter-protest, including an attack on a drinker outside a pub in Yardley which did not result in serious injuries.

Masked groups turned out in the Alum Rock and Bordesley Green areas on Monday after rumours circulated in a far-right Telegram group of thugs heading to the city.

Some of those who turned up to a McDonalds in the area confronted Sky News reporter Becky Johnson as she delivered a live report to anchorman Mark Austin - riding up to her on a motorbike as she spoke to the camera.

Ms Johnson later disclosed that a Sky News van was attacked by a man with a knife as they attempted to leave the scene - after being told they were not welcome in the area.

As she reported that local community leaders had been speaking to police about the gatherings, the man shouted: 'Yo, free Palestine, f*** the EDL (English Defence League)'.

He was then surrounded by accomplices who approached the camera as it sought to turn away and crop them out of the scene - while Ms Johnson attempted to apologise for the language used by the protesters.

A car was also attacked after social media rumours of a far-right protest in the area proved to be false.

Some businesses in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter closed early on Wednesday, or were boarded up, ahead of further expected protests.

Sky News reporter Becky Johnson was confronted by a gang of masked thugs live on TV

The protester shouted 'Free Palestine, f*** the EDL' as the reporter looked on and associates joined him

The camera was then turned away from the gathering - but some of those who turned up in masks followed it and gestured at the camera

Mr Foster said in a statement: 'I appreciate and understand, that there are serious concerns across the West Midlands, as a consequence of the disgraceful scenes of disorder and violence, that have taken place across the country.

'My clear expectation of West Midlands Police is that: Firstly, police officers and staff will do all that is within their power, to keep people and communities safe and secure.

'Secondly, at all times, policing is without fear or favour and anyone, whoever they are, if they engage in disorder or violence, will be held to account and will face the consequences of their criminal activity.

'I want to make it clear that there is no place for division, hate or racism and it will not be tolerated in the West Midlands.

'My advice to everyone, is that I strongly urge you to avoid gathering at any events and that you allow the police to carry out their essential duties, on behalf of the public.

'Now, more than ever, we must stand together.'
Ancient Revitalized Assyrian Monastery Becomes Hub of Christianity in Syria

Syriac Catholic Fr. Jihad Youssef prays inside the church of Mar Musa Monastery in Syria in June 2017. Youssef became head of the monastic community in 2021. ( Newscom/picture-alliance/dpa/Simon Kremer) As Christian numbers continue to plummet in their ancestral Middle Eastern homelands due to conflict and dire economic circumstances, a community of monks and religious in Syria are developing a new way to be the "disciples of Jesus" to the Muslims in their midst, while nourishing Christian spirituality.

Syria's revitalized ancient Mar Musa Monastery, near the city of Nebek, has become a modern beacon of hope and resilience in a country marred by conflict, as its eight monks and sisters mainly of the Syriac Catholic rite, but also including some Orthodox and Protestants, refine Italian Jesuit Fr. Paolo Dall'Oglio's founding vision of reconciliation.

Syriac Catholic monk Fr. Jihad Youssef, who now heads the monastery, sees in the brokenness of the Syrian experience "a chance for changing the mentality," of the country's dwindling Christian population. According to Aid to the Church in Need, the number of Christians in Syria has dropped to 300,000, compared to pre-2011 civil war figures of 1.5 million. The conflict has killed half a million people, destroyed cities, and created political instability and economic turmoil.

"We have the chance to be real disciples of Jesus and a church amongst Islam, collaborating with Muslims, loving them, and willing to be with them," Youssef told NCR during a rare recent visit to the Jordanian capital, Amman.

The monastery's daily mission encourages a vibrant spiritual life and manual work -- including fighting desertification near Nebek -- all the while embracing Abrahamic hospitality with the local community of Muslims and Syriac Catholic, Orthodox and evangelical Christians in the town.

Also known as the Monastery of St. Moses the Abyssinian, it dates back possibly to the sixth century or earlier and is located some 50 miles (80 kilometers) in the mountainous desert area north of the Syrian capital, Damascus. Dall'Oglio and others re-established the monastery in 1991 after earlier restoration work.

A view of Mar Musa Monastery in Syria in 2019. ( Wikimedia Commons/Tareq Mnadili)

Before the 2011 Syrian civil war, some 30,000 visitors came to the monastery, which hosts religious and spiritual tourism as well agritourism, but numbers are now much lower.

"Our hospitality is open to everyone: Christians, Muslims, Jews, families, groups, singles. But especially those who come to pray seeking discernment for their lives," Youssef said. "Those seeking their vocation and what to do have the priority."

But the 13-year war, COVID-19 and difficulties entering Syria have presented challenges to the monastic community since. The first was the kidnapping and disappearance of monastery founder and religious dialogue advocate Dall'Oglio in July 2013 by Islamic State militants in Raqqa, where he had gone to plead for the release of kidnapped activists. There has been no word of his whereabouts.

Two years afterward, in May 2015, monastery member Fr. Jacques Mourad was also kidnapped by Islamic State militants and came close to martyrdom, "but Jacques could flee after five months with the help of some Muslim friends and afterwards, he became our bishop," Youssef said. Mourad became the Syriac Catholic archbishop of Homs, Syria, in 2023.

The church of Mar Musa Monastery in Syria has frescoes that date to the 11th and 12th centuries. ( Wikimedia Commons/Tareq Mnadili)

Youssef underscored the importance of building bridges between religions. He noted that Mourad and the Mar Musa community have supported people suffering from the consequences of war with rebuilding projects and by providing psychological support and emergency humanitarian aid.

"In the first year of the war, we were isolated. It was dangerous. But we felt faithful to our vocation because the Lord invited us there. This had a big impact on the local population because they saw that we stood with them in solidarity. We did not leave them alone. Some workers from the city of Nebek came to live with us," Youssef explained.

But during the two-month Battle of Nebek between government forces and rebel groups in December 2013, the monastery community was again alone, and thankfully had food reserves.

After the fighting stopped, they could go to the city in early 2014 and tend to humanitarian needs by providing food, medicines and other basics. Later, they started a kindergarten and a school of music. The monks and religious also assist the poor with other medical needs thanks to mostly European and Christian donors.

"The people in our area are mainly Muslims, but in Nebek, we have Greek Catholics, Syriac Catholics, which is the rite of our monastery, and a very small evangelical community of three families. We work together," Youssef said.

"They pray together, do catechism together and music together. They make lots of things together. All activities also engage the Muslims, which for us is a beautiful testimony and witness of Christ's love," he explained. "These relationships of mutual understanding and good friendships have helped us a lot. This started before the war, and this was a big help during the war."

However, Youssef expresses concerns that many Syrians have for the future. Some will say that "the church in Syria is on its way to extinction," Youssef said.

"The future is hard to predict because if the international political, economic and geopolitical situations are still like this, Christians will keep leaving the country," he said. "Also, Muslims are leaving. For us, as Christians, the result is disastrous because we are just disappearing."

But here is the challenge for this time, Youssef said, that the monastery community is embracing. "We are a mission. We don't only have a mission. But that means that our presence in Syria is meaningful to the kingdom of God. It's not by chance that we are there," he said of the Christian calling to serve in Syria.

"So, those who want to leave, leave and God bless them. But those who want to stay must think together how to be a church in this new context, in this new millennium."
Chinas Badain Jaran Desert: A must-visit wonder on the UNESCO World Heritage List

People's Daily Online) 15:33, August 07, 2024

The undulating dunes resemble golden waves shimmering brilliantly under the sunlight, a spectacular sight that leaves one in awe. This is nature's masterpiece, a stunning painting. This is the Badain Jaran Desert.

It is China's third largest and the world's fourth largest desert, and attracts visitors as a natural masterpiece and cultural treasure.

Photo shows a lake in Badain Jaran Desert, Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Alxa Right Banner committee)

On July 26, 2024, Badain Jaran Desert - Towers of Sand and Lakes was added to the World Heritage List by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) at the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi, India.

Located in the north of Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Badain Jaran Desert boasts five wonders: peculiar peaks, singing sand, oasis lakes, sacred springs, and ancient temples. Its wonders have earned it a reputation as being the most beautiful desert.

Badain Jaran Desert is home to some tall stationary dunes, including the Bilutu Peak, the world's highest sand peak with an altitude of more than 1,611 meters and a relative height of over 500 meters.

Photo shows Zhunjigede lake in Badain Jaran Desert, Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Alxa Right Banner committee)

These dunes are also what create the desert's singing sands. Certain dunes in the desert produce a mysterious booming sound when the wind blows. In particular, Baoritaolegai located on the edge of the desert is dubbed the "kingdom of singing sands" because of its spectacular singing sand dunes.

There are 144 crystal-clear lakes nestled between dunes, supporting lush vegetation and diverse wildlife while creating unique desert landscapes.

Natural springs in the desert are famous for their purity. The most famous spring water of the desert comes from the Yinderitu lake, which has 108 springs.

Photo shows Nuoritu lake in Badain Jaran Desert, Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Alxa Right Banner committee)

Of the desert's temples, the Badain Jaran temple, a Buddhist temple built in 1755, is one of the major landmarks. It's often referred to as the "Forbidden City of the desert".

The desert's ecosystem is a testament to nature's resilience. Plants like the saxaul tree, Korshinsk pea shrub, Zygophyllum, and desert poplar thrive in the harsh conditions, while animals such as Bactrian camels, swans, wild ducks, wild geese, toad-headed agamas and foxes have adapted to desert life.

The Badain Jaran Desert promises both excitement and serenity, providing visitors with unparalleled experiences such as witnessing the sunrise over the dunes, stargazing under pristine night skies, and embarking on thrilling off-road adventures. In one's lifetime, one must visit the Badain Jaran Desert.

Photo shows an aerial view of Badain Jaran Desert in Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Alxa Right Banner committee)

Photo shows Badain Jaran temple, a Buddhist temple built in 1755 in Badain Jaran Desert, Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Alxa Right Banner committee)

Birds hover freely over a lake in Badain Jaran Desert, Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Alxa Right Banner committee)

Photo shows Zhunjigede lake in Badain Jaran Desert, Alxa Right Banner, Alxa League, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China Alxa Right Banner committee)

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
A pregnant woman was found stabbed to death in her apartment while her husband was in custody for allegedly assaulting her - and the man's brother is now the primary suspect.

Brianna Welsh, 25, was found dead at the residence in Lynn, Massachusetts, last Wednesday - a day after she called cops to report that her live-in boyfriend, Brendon Vozzella, had punched her in the stomach.

That revelation was offered up in court on Thursday by Assistant District Attorney Kate MacDougall, along with the fact Welsh had been pregnant with Brendon's baby. His brother, Zachary, was there as well, after a probe deemed him the primary suspect.

The 26-year-old had been living with Welsh and his younger brother in the apartment, and is now charged with murder and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in connection with the apparent stabbing.

Welsh was found with multiple 'sharp force injuries' after her family requested a well-being check after not hearing from her, leading cops to cuff Zachary. His 24-year-old brother has been cleared of any wrongdoing relating to the murder.

Brianna Welsh, 25, was found dead at the residence in Lynn, Massachusetts, last Wednesday. She was three months pregnant

The discovery came a day after she called cops to report that her live-in boyfriend, Brendon Vozzella, 24, had punched her in the stomach. He was arrested that day, and is believed to have been incarcerated when the murder occurred

'The tragic violence that has taken the life of Brianna Welsh and her unborn child has created an unbearable loss for her family,' said Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker in a statement Thursday.

'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.'

Earlier in the day, Zachary pleaded not guilty and was ordered held without bail until his next hearing - slated for September.

A day earlier, the day Welsh was killed, his brother was arraigned on charges of assault and battery on a pregnant woman and assault and battery on a family member.

His day in court came Tuesday, though the outcome of that hearing remains unclear.

Zachary was also present at the time of the alleged assault, police wrote in an arrest report - writing that he was homeless and had been living with the couple for the past few months.

After allegedly being punched, Welsh went to Salem Hospital - telling police she was three months pregnant and wanted to get checked out, the report read.

She made it back to her building at 6:15 pm, key fob data showed.

The prime suspect is Brendon's older brother Zachary, 26, who is seen here in court Thursday after being charged with Welsh's murder. He is being held without bail until his next hearing in September

Zachary was also present at the time of the alleged assault, police wrote in an arrest report - writing that he was homeless and had been living with the couple for the past few months

Information extracted by the electronic device further revealed how the door was opened from the inside at 8:06 pm, before being locked from the outside ten minutes later.

The door would not open again until maintenance workers administered the welfare check more than 12 hours later.

During that span, Brendon was released from his incarceration, but never returned to the apartment, cops wrote.

Upon being interviewed that day, Zachary told investigators he had not seen Welsh since she left for the hospital, and that he had been at a Dunkin' Donuts on Tuesday from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Cops found that to be false, with video from the establishment not showing him there at that time.

He later owned up to being at the apartment on Tuesday between 2:30 and 8:30pm cops said - revealing how the suspect claimed Welsh was not there at all during that time.

He instead said that around 8:30 pm, he left with a duffel bag and backpack to take an Uber to another apartment where he planned to stay.

Surveillance footage secured by police, however, showed him carrying much more than than that - two backpacks, a duffel bag, a trash bag and a smaller plastic bag, police wrote.

Welsh was pregnant with Brendon's baby, but he has been cleared of any wrongdoing surrounding her murder. He was charged with assault and battery on a pregnant woman and assault and battery on a family member instead. Cops' investigation remains ongoing

When cops proceeded to search the residence where he claimed he stayed, they found a trash bag containing a paper bag with a bloody kitchen knife - one that matched a set of cutlery kept at Welsh and his brother's apartment.

Officers also found a pair of shorts and a sock stained with dried blood, along with the two key fobs assigned to Welsh's apartment.

Investigators went on to air their belief that Welsh was killed while her boyfriend was in police custody.

Their investigation, as of writing, remains ongoing.
Bosses at a crisis-hit health board have created a toxic culture of bullying and cover-ups which is harming patients and staff, according to a bombshell report.

A survey of hundreds of staff across Forth Valley Health Board found workers pushed to breaking point by the senior leadership team.

The damning indictment comes two years after the Scottish Government was forced to assume oversight of NHS Forth Valley because of its corrosive culture.

Despite board assurances that the environment would improve, the staff survey found it has become increasingly hostile under its dysfunctional leadership.

Of the 747 staff who responded to questions about their experience of culture and leadership at NHS Forth Valley, three-quarters gave negative feedback.

Most staff gave negative feedback in a survey across Forth Valley Health Board

Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert

They accused leaders of victimisation and a threatening, divisive approach to staff, leaving workers scared to speak out about concerns, including over patient safety.

The research found the impact of the leadership failures on morale resulted in a knock-on effect on patients.

For the first time on record, patient complaints about staff attitudes have exceeded those regarding clinical care.

The report said: The unacceptable has become accepted.

It added: Bullying and incivility is felt to be permitted and tolerated and processes to address them are not trusted.

Workers spoke of being disillusioned, burned out and frustrated, with one nurse claiming: It is toxic.

'Managers gossip and b***h about staff. They dismiss safety concerns and good practice. They are bullies.

A student said her experience at Forth Valley was so terrible, she thought nursing was one of the worst career choices that could be made.

Another said she had witnessed a lack of compassion towards staff and patients by senior teams in certain wards.

One respondent alleged problem managers were simply moved or promoted. Nepotism among bosses was also rife in certain departments, it was claimed.

In November 2022 NHS Forth Valley was escalated to stage four of the NHS Scotland performance escalation framework over concerns relating to governance, leadership and culture.

Chief executive Cathie Cowan retired last year and was replaced by interim head Amanda Croft, a former Chief Nursing Officer for the Scottish Government.

Last night Karren Morrison, secretary of Unisons Forth Valley Health branch, said the review was shocking but not surprising as staff had been complaining about the culture for years.

A Forth Valley Health Board spokesman said it had started working on changing the culture before it was put into special measures, adding: A number of changes have already been made to encourage staff to speak up and ensure that any issues or concerns raised are acted on.
Im thousands of miles and several hours from home with a group of friends when the phone rings. Its the girl, calling to ask how Im doing. My heart lifts.

We chat about our days then, just as Im about to return to my party, the real reason for this lovely interlude becomes clear.

Dad? she says, that single syllable elongating as its rises in pitch. Can I get my belly button pierced?

Im no novice at this game. I keep my cool and return her serve with a classic. I ask what her mum says?

But the girl  16 now, and no slouch at this dance  is ready. She says to see what you think.

Piercing question about keeping a secret that makes every father's blood run cold. Picture posed by model

I should have seen that one coming, I admit, but it catches me off guard. Is my view on this matter actually important? Might it influence her decision?

I suggest she and her brother come over on the day I return to Scotland, when we can discuss it further, then rejoin my friends at the dinner table.

Ive been expecting the belly button question for some time. As soon as her mother and I agreed to ear piercings on her 13th birthday, she began agitating for a second pair to be added a year later.

Many of you may recognise this scenario. These negotiations can be tense but they only last a few years, so chin up any just starting out on the magical journey that is parenthood.

In past discussions about the pros (none, I tell her) and cons (oh, darling, so, so many) of piercing her navel, Ive always gone with a low key its not my cup of tea, and then there are the health risks approach, seeing the subject off until another day.

But weve long since passed the point where that can continue.

Im happy that she called to ask my permission but we both know that not only is she old enough now to make her own decisions on a range of issues but that she is also very much her fathers daughter, compelled to do that which authority figures tell her not to. Any sudden moves on my part could be disastrous.

I remain fairly relaxed. I have a secret weapon. Im on holiday with, among others, my best mate and it just so happens that not only is he a doctor, but that my kids love and respect him (sometimes I wonder if any of them know just how painful that can be). I explain the situation and ask for his best horror stories.

Hes never let me down before and, once again, he steps up. Well, he says, theres the risk of infection.

He describes what might happen. I make a note to talk to the girl about pus. And then we get into the real gore...

By the time were on pudding, I have created, in my head, the most horrific scenario.

I plan to tell the girl that while getting her belly button pierced might seem like a cool idea now, there could be horrendous consequences.

Ill invite her to imagine pulling off a sweater, it catching on the metal ring speared through her abdomen, and her skin tearing.

I will paint a picture of a young woman, blood pouring from a ragged wound, doctors having to stitch her back together.

I plan to really go for it. By the time weve finished discussing whether she should get her belly button pierced or not, shell be so terrified of what might go wrong that it will have ceased to be a live issue.

I will be so successful that word will spread and belly button rings will simply no longer be a thing anywhere on Earth.

I congratulate myself on my imagined parenting victory. I do this because there is a part of me that will forever be an irredeemable idiot.

Over the next few days, I think a lot about the girl and her wishes.

In common with other parents, her mother and I have put a lot of effort into helping her understand that nobody should ever feel obliged to meet other peoples ideas of what beauty is.

Be yourself, weve told her. Dont try to please others and, whatever you do, never think you have to dress in a certain style or behave in a particular way because it is expected by boys.

But am I overthinking it? I have friends with piercings in, let us say, all manner of places and I love and respect those people. I would trust them with my childrens lives. Whats the big deal if the girl wants to adorn herself as they have?

And then the difficult one for dads, in particular. Who am I to tell a young woman, facing challenges from which I was shielded by my masculinity, what she should do with her own body?

Am I a huge hypocrite? Is my concern really about my own petty bourgeois inhibitions rather than about whether my daughter might regret her decision?

In telling her not to feel pressured by others, am I doing exactly that? Am I good dad or just an awful sexist?

Something  which now seems obvious  occurs to me. What if she just really wants her belly button pierced, she gets it done, and everythings fine?

What if I bite my lip, treat her like the clever young woman she is, and limit my view to advice that she attends a reputable salon? Will the sky fall?

In truth, I find the whole matter reassuring. We want our children to develop their independence but its rather touching that she has decided to ask for my input on this matter.

Have I been such a success at the business of being a dad that, even when my permission is not required, my wise counsel is sought? Wouldnt that be wonderful?

My ex-wife and I text back and forward, creating a plan of action. She suggests a softly-softly approach.

Well suggest the girl takes some time to think about it over the summer. Well play it cool so that  at all times  the girl believes she is making her own decisions and not being manipulated by two old hands.

Gosh, we really are clever. The poor kid has no idea what shes dealing with.

Back home in Scotland, the girl and her brother come over for dinner. Of course, I talk to her about pus. And then I ask her to imagine pulling off a sweater and her flesh ripping...

She looks me in the eye.

Dad? she says?

Uh-huh?

She places her right hand on her tummy. Can you keep a secret from Mum?

Absolutely not, I tell her. A look of horror spreads across her face. She springs up from the dinner table.

I need to make a phone call, she says.
Police have released the images of 14 people they are hunting in relation to disorder in Merseyside, as they warn 'many people will soon be getting a knock on their door', ahead of further anticipated riots.

Merseyside Police wants to speak to the group of 14 people after disorder in Liverpool city centre and Walton on Saturday.

The incidents followed the fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport last week.

Officers were injured and severe damage caused to police vehicles and buildings, including a library that was set on fire.

To date, 42 people have been arrested, 15 charged and three jailed in relation to the disorder.

Police have released the images of 14 people they are hunting in relation to disorder in Merseyside

Merseyside Police is hunting the group after disorder in Liverpool city centre and Walton on Saturday

The incidents followed the fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport last week

Officers were injured and severe damage caused to police vehicles and buildings, including a library which was set on fire during the incidents on Saturday

Detective Superintendent Paul Speight said: 'It is vital that these people make themselves known as soon as possible, as we think they can assist our ongoing investigations.

'The communities of Southport and beyond were disgusted by the violence and damage caused last week and at the weekend.

'We are still working our way through information, images and footage as it comes in and we'll continue to take action to arrest, charge and put before the courts anyone identified.

'We have so far seen 42 people arrested, 15 charged and three jailed.

'There will be more in the coming days, and many people who are sitting comfortably will soon be getting a knock on their door.

'And you will see in coming days, the courts will act as swiftly as possible to jail those people who bring violence, racism and hatred into our communities.

'We will find you': Police have vowed to track down those responsible for the riots

The force also pledged to 'put you before the courts' as they issued a warning to those involved

To date, 42 people have been arrested, 15 charged and three jailed in relation to the disorder, as Merseyside Police hunt 14 people

These two men are among the 14 people being hunted by Merseyside Police

The police has vowed to act 'swiftly' against those inciting riots and disorder across the UK

'They will soon be getting a knock on their door': The police is hunting 14 people

'To anyone intent on coming to Merseyside in the future I have the same message: we will find you, and we will put you before the courts.'

Anyone who recognises the people pictured should contact police on social media @MerpolCC or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, with reference 24000663787.

Rubble lies at the feet of police officers thrown by protesters in Liverpool, amid horrifying violence on Saturday

Masked thugs threw bricks at officers in shocking scenes as cops in riot gear attempted to quell the chaos

A young man throws a brick at lines of police in Liverpool, as riots in the city close to the Southport stabbing turned violent
Detroit police say they have finally solved the case of a neurosurgeon who was brutally murdered in his mansion.

Dr Devon Hoover, 57, was shot dead inside his $1million home in April, 2023, by Desmond Burks, 34, according to police.

The two men had an intimate relationship and Burks sometimes charged the doctor for sex, per officials.

Police made the arrest on Wednesday, charging Burks with first-degree murder and other crimes related to the killing such as larceny over $20,000.

'This massive investigation was conducted for over a year in conjunction with local, state and federal law enforcement partners,' said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, per Fox News.

Dr Devon Hoover, 57, ([pictured) was shot dead inside his $1million home in April, 2023, by Desmond Burks, 34, according to police

'This investigation spanned five states and three countries. Voluminous amounts of documents and evidence were recovered.'

Police say Hoover's phone shows that he was moving between his home in Detroit's Boston-Edison neighborhood and Burk's address in Grandale, which is about 15 minutes away, the day before his murder.

Dr Hoover was found shot twice in the head, naked in a crawlspace in his home after police carried out a welfare check when he failed to show up for a family party in Indiana.

Officials had received a complaint about a white Range Rover that was blocking a drive way in the Grandale neighborhood the day before they found his body.

The vehicle had blood inside, according to police, and was registered to Hoover. Officers then traveled to his home and noticed the front and rear doors were wide open but no one appeared to be home.

The two men had an intimate relationship and Burks sometimes charged the doctor for sex, per officials. Burks is pictured

After finding evidence of blood at the mansion, police forced their way into his home and found Hoover's body in April, 2023

The next day Hoover's family made a 911 call to request a wellness check on the doctor after he failed to shop up for a planned visit with his mother in Indiana.

After finding evidence of blood at the mansion, police forced their way into his home and found his body.

Police noticed several things were missing from the home, including Hoover's cellphone, wallet, money, credit cards and designer watches.

Moreover, fraudulent transactions were made from his financial accounts after his death.

Dr Hoover was well liked in his community, and was previously named in Hour Detroit Magazine as one of the leading neurological surgeons in Detroit in 2008

Police say they found Burk's fingerprint in the Range Rover, and that they located Hoover's watches in his home.

Dr Hoover was well liked in his community, and was previously named in Hour Detroit Magazine as one of the leading neurological surgeons in Detroit in 2008.

In a statement following his murder, Ascension Michigan Hospital said Dr Hoover 'was a dedicated and well-respected member of the Ascension Michigan family and will be greatly missed by our community.

'Our sincerest condolence and heartfelt prayers are with his family, friends and fellow associated during this incredibly difficult time'.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has a new nickname now that he is soaking up the political spotlight.

The Democrat was announced as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate this week and has been quickly absorbed by the campaign as a useful political asset.

Being a white military veteran from the Midwest broadens Harris's appeal to new segments of voters, but Republicans have been quick to highlight his progressive bona fides that earned him the spot on Harris's ticket.

'I've heard people calling him Tampon Tim, because why use a progressive individual that wanted to put tampons in boys locker rooms in the schools as governor?' Florida Republican Rep. Brian Mast said of Harris's VP pick's gender policies.

The name 'Tampon Tim' has since been used throughout conservative circles to describe the governor picked to pad Harris's presidential prospects.

Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz speaking at a Harris/Walz campaign event at the Liacouras Center at Temple University in Philadelphia. Republicans are now calling him 'Tampon Tim' because of a law he signed in 2023 providing menstrual care products in boy's school bathrooms

'He's a progressive governor,' Mast charged.

'So it makes perfect sense why he's being chosen by the Biden administration or by the Harris administration, because they are just a continuation of the extremism of the Biden administration.'

Mast also suggested that Harris has connections to Biden's worst presidential decisions, like the botched U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan and 'certainly the southern border, they're trying to downplay that.'

At the center of the new 'Tampon Tim' monicker is the governor's choice to sign a 2023 law requiring that schools provide menstruation supplies in boy's restrooms at schools in Minnesota.

Specifically the bill states that 'the products must be available to all menstruating students' in grades four to 12.

The measure was intentioned to provide discreet accommodations for transgender students in their bathroom of choice.

Vice President Kamala Harris announced Walz as her running mate this week

Since the announcement conservatives have been hammering Walz for his political record

US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris (R) and her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz arrive at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, August 7, 2024. Harris and Walz are speaking at a campaign rally in Eau Claire Wednesday

Republicans in the state legislature tried to amend the effort to only apply to female bathrooms but that effort failed and the bill providing tampons and menstrual pads in male bathrooms was signed into law.

'As a woman, I think there is no greater threat to our health than leaders who support, who support putting tampons in mens bathrooms in public schools,' Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for former President Donald Trump's campaign said Tuesday.

'Those are radical policies that Tim Walz supports. He actually signed a bill to do that.'

She called Walz's gender policies a 'threat to women's health.'

Besides Republicans and Trump's teams other notable conservatives have also been using the menstrual monicker.

Rep. Brian Mast, R-Fla., speaks at the Republican National Convention in July. He, along with many other conservatives, were among those calling Walz 'Tampon Tim'

'Tampon Tim is the name. Thats it,' talk show host Megyn Kelly wrote on X.

Host Liz Wheeler wrote on the same platform: 'Tampon Tim is hands down the best political nickname ever. Its so savagely effective. In one word tells you everything you need to know about Tim Walzs dangerous radicalism.'

'He put tampons in mens bathrooms! Hell trans kids. He took away parental rights. Hes woke & creepy,' she continued.

In addition, the anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America also slammed Walz's gender policies.

'Kamala Harris and Tim Walz make up the most pro-abortion presidential ticket America has ever seen. There is no daylight between them on this issue,' said SBA Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser wrote in a statement Tuesday.

Specifically the bill signed by Walz states that 'the products must be available to all menstruating students' in grades four to 12

'Walz is no moderate when it comes to abortion. Last year Walz signed the PRO Act, which was at the time the countrys most extreme law enshrining abortion on demand throughout pregnancy as a fundamental right.

He then signed grossly expanding taxpayer-funded abortion, stripping away the states informed consent protections, and significantly weakening protections for babies born alive,' she continued.
It's been 17 days since President Joe Biden dropped out of the presidential race and Vice President Kamala Harris has yet to sit down for an interview.

In that time period Biden endorsed Harris, Democrats coalesced around the VP and she became the Democratic nominee through a virtual vote ahead of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago later this month.

On Tuesday she unveiled her running mate: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

All the while, former President Donald Trump's No.2, Sen. J.D. Vance has been trolling Harris for not talking to the press.

He did so again Wednesday when his plane, Trump Force Two, rolled onto the tarmac where Harris' jet, Air Force Two, was parked.

Vice President Kamala Harris waves as she arrives Wednesday in Eau Claire, Wisconsin for a campaign stop. She hasn't participated in a sit-down interview since President Joe Biden dropped out of the race and turned the keys over to her

Republican vice presidential hopeful J.D. Vance has been trolling Harris for not talking to the press. On Wednesday in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, he went and checked out Harris' plane, Air Force Two, which was parked on the tarmac when he arrived to the state

'I just wanted to check out my future plane, but I also wanted to go say hello to the vice president and ask her why Kamala Harris refuses - why does she refuse to answer questions from the media?' Vance said.

'And I also thought that the press gaggle following her might get a little lonely,' Vance continued. 'I, at least, have enough respect for you all and for the American people you report to, to come and talk to you and answer some questions.'

Vance has been traveling with a pack of reporters this week, including Dailymail.com, and has been answering questions consistenly.

Harris has also spoken with reporters who she's been traveling with, but has only answered questions here and there.

On Tuesday, she shouted to journalists that Walz will be 'a great vice president' as she boarded Air Force Two to Philadelphia, where she and the Minnesota governor made their official debut.

President Joe Biden arrives back at the White House from Wilmington, Delaware on Monday. Biden participated in several high-stakes interviews after fumbling the presidential debate in Atlanta in June. He sat for an interview Wednesday with CBS Sunday Morning

On the plane she spoke to reporters off-the-record for several minutes, the pool reporter indicated.

She hasn't, however, done a traditional sit-down interview with a broadcast network, like Biden did when his campaign was in turmoil.

Biden first sat down with ABC's George Stephanopoulos in the aftermath of his disastrous June 27 presidential debate in Atlanta.

He did a second interview with NBC's Lester Holt.

The president booked an interview with CBS' Robert Costa to air this weekend on CBS Sunday Morning.

It will be Biden's first interview since dropping out of the 2024 race, though he's taken questions from journalists since making the decision.

It's unclear when Harris might make a similar move.
California ballerina, Ksenia Karelina, being held in Russian jail has pleaded guilty to a charge of treason, reports say.

The American citizen was not included in the major prisoner swap between Russia and the West last week involving 24 prisoners held in seven countries and led to the release of three Americans.

Karelina, 33, is on trial in the city of Yekaterinburg over a donation she made in 2022 to a charity supporting Ukraine.

Russian state news agency RIA quoted her lawyer saying she has pleaded guilty to the treason charges on Wednesday and a verdict will be announced Thursday, according to Reuters.

She has yet to be sentenced and could face 12 years to life in prison if she is found guilty.

Ksenia Karelina is on trial in the city of Yekaterinburg over a donation she made in 2022 to a charity supporting Ukraine

Reports say she pleaded guilty to a charge of treason of Wednesday

The ballerina is a Los Angeles resident who became a US citizen in 2021 and was detained earlier this year by Vladimir Putin's Federal Security Service, the FSB, while visiting her grandparents.

She was accused of 'funding the Ukrainian armed forces' and taking part in 'public actions to support the Kyiv regime', after she allegedly donated a $51.80 to a Ukrainian charity in the US.

Russian prosecutors argued the money was used to finance the Ukrainian army, and purchase ammunition, which could send her to jail for between 12 and 20 years under Putin's laws.

Her former mother-in-law, Eleonora Srebroski, told Reuters in February that Karelina, who worked at a spa in Beverley Hills, had traveled home around New Years after her boyfriend surprised her with a plane ticket.

She had assured her boyfriend that Russia was 'safe' and that he had no reason to fear her traveling there, according to Srebroski.

Srebroski said Karelina had made a small donation to Razom for Ukraine, a New York-based nonprofit that sends non-military assistance to the country, which was invaded by Russian forces in 2022.

Karelina was not included in the major prisoner swap between Russia and the West last week

A picture shows her at an anti-Putin and anti-war protest in Los Angeles. She is holding a sign with a Ukrainian flag declaring 'We want peace' next to a friend with a 'Stop Putin' poster'.

It is unclear where the Russian authorities obtained the pictures, but it is known Karelina's cell phone was closely examined by Putin's secret service agents after she arrived back to Russia in early January.

There have been a growing number of treason and espionage cases in today's Russia under Putin - especially since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, former marine Paul Whelan and Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmashevas were all released from Russian prisons as part of the recent major inmate swap with Moscow.

Gershkovich, 32, was detained in March 2023 on espionage charges that the United States says are illegitimate. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison in July.

The Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former marine Paul Whelan were released

Whelan, 54, has been imprisoned in Russia since 2018 and was sentenced to 16 years in jail in 2020 on spying charges. The US has denied he was ever involved in espionage operations.

Radio journalist Kurmasheva was arrested in October last year and charged with failing to register as a foreign agent.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Russian-British dissident journalist also jailed in Russia, was also reported to have disappeared from view.

He was arrested in April 2022 just hours after a CNN interview was broadcast in which he stated Russia was run by a 'regime of murderers'.

Kara-Murza was sentenced to 25 years in a Siberian jail in a tiny punishment cell just ten feet long and five feet wide.
Sen. J.D. Vance knows an opportunity to embarrass an opponent when he sees it.

So when his campaign plane, nicknamed Trump Force Two, landed in Wisconsin minutes after Kamala Harris arrived aboard Air Force Two he knew exactly what to do.

No sooner was he down the steps but he was set off across the Tarmac for a closer look at the vice president's ride.

His Secret Service detail hurried to catch up and his press handlers panicked as they try to stop his small traveling pool of journalists from marching off behind him.

Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, center, walks to look at Air Force Two, Vice President Kamala Harris' plane, at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Eau Claire, Wi

Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, walks back from looking at Air Force Two at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Eau Claire, Wis

But Vance's plans were thwarted. As his small throng drew closer to Air Force Two, the vice president's motorcade drove off, hurrying her to her next event.

Vance was beaming when he returned to his own plane and addressed reporters.

'I just wanted to check out my future plane,' he said with a grin.

She has the bigger plane ... for now.

Her Boeing C-32, is a modified 757, resembling Donald Trump's own private jet. Vance is traveling in the slightly smaller 737, which has a reduced range.

The two planes were bound to run into each other.

Vance has been crisscrossing battleground states this week, 'bracketing' the vice president's events in the same states.

So on Tuesday, he appeared in Philadelphia just before she took the stage with her new running mate.

And on Wednesday, he flew into Michigan and Wisconsin, visiting the same places where Harris had scheduled events.

But he said his Air Force Two stunt had a serous point.

Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz arriving at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, on Wednesday, just ahead of JD Vance

Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, talks to reporters after walking over from looking at Air Force Two, Vice President Kamala Harris' plane, at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Eau Claire, Wis

'I also wanted to go say hello to the vice president and ask why Kamala Harris refuses ... to answer questions from the media?' he said.

'And I also thought that the press gaggle following her might get a little lonely.'

He said he did not get the chance to speak to her.

'I think she was trying to get that out of there as quickly as possible,' he said.

Vance has spent the past two weeks playing defense, buffeted by scrutiny of old interviews - such as the time he complained about the country being run by childless cat ladies' - and fake smears.

This week he has been back on the front foot, winning good reviews even from Trump insiders who had lobbied for alternative running mates.

Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, talks to reporters after walking over from looking at Air Force Two, Vice President Kamala Harris' plane, at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Eau Claire, Wis.

At two stops Wednesday he laid into Harris's record on the border, crime and the economy, reveling in his role as Trump's policy attack dog.

And he said he and Trump were ready to answer questions from anyone.

'We think it's important to have a counter narrative here, and importantly, to drive home this point that she has been a dangerous radical, she has pursued very far left policies, from defunding the police to opening the American southern border to increasing the price of housing and groceries on Americans,' he said.

'This has happened because of her policies, and I think it's important that the American people actually know that. And again, I really can't believe she's been himself to nominate for 17 days, and she hasn't taken a real question.'
He was Brazil's most tattooed man before deciding to remove the ink etched across a staggering 95 percent of his body.

Leandro de Souza has so far undergone two laser sessions as part of the process to eliminate over two decades worth of tattoos  the first coming as a young teenager.

The 35-year-old photographer, who lives in the Brazilian border city of Bage next to Uruguay, made the decision to erase more than 170 tattoos after welcoming evangelicalism into his life.

'I did the first one when I was 13,' de Souza told Brazilian online news outlet G1. 'The first ones were very much about the idolatry of the time.'

Leandro de Souza's first tattoos were inspired by his love for Guns N' Roses, Nirvana and Metallica

Leandro de Souza decided to remove the tattoos from his body after visiting a shelter in the Brazilian city of Bage following a battle with alcohol and drug abuse

An earlier photo of Leandro de Souza as he was on his way to tattooing 95 percent of his body

The tattoos were inspired by favorite rock banks of the moment  Nirvana, Guns N' Roses and Metallica.

De Souza's went down a dark path 10 years ago when he divorced his wife.

The fallout of splitting away from the mother of his 10-year-old son resulted in a nine-year period in which he dabbled with cocaine for the very first time and then in mixed ecstasy, LSD and booze.

'I couldn't stand the life I was living anymore,' he said. 'I was an attraction at (events I attended) and it felt like a circus animal.'

De Souza's found a new outlook on life when he visited a shelter, where he was introduced to evangelism.

'The first step in everything in life is to accept that you can't do it alone, that you are an addict, that you are a drug addict,' de Souza said.

'And I managed to do that, I entered the municipal shelter in Bage. Within a week, there was a lady who referred me and started to evangelize me.'

Leandro de Souza has decided to remove the tattoos that cover 95 percent of his body

Leandro de Souza was mired in a battle with drugs and alcohol dependency after he divorced his wife 10 years ago and turned his life around after visiting a local shelter, where he was introduced to evangelicalism

De Souza converted the religion two years ago, preaching to 'parents and children in homes that are in prisons'.

A tattoo studio in Franco da Rocha, Sao Paulo heard of how de Souza turned around his life  on April 14 he celebrated his birthday as well as being one year free of drug and cigarette use. He has gone more than three years without having an alcoholic beverage.

De Souza still has to undergo six more sessions, which are scheduled every three months and last 30 to 40 minutes.

'It hurts a lot more than doing it,' he said. 'It hurts three times more than doing it. Even with anesthesia, the process is very painful.'
With its sweeping ocean views and sub-$300,000 price tag, this Maine coastal property would ordinarily be considered a steal.

However, the listing in Harspwell has one major catch - it is just a garage.

But since the property is being listed for well below the $400,000 cost of a typical Maine home, according to Redfin, it could be the perfect project for a creatively minded buyer.

'We do have a person interested in it as a garage,' Listing agent Shirley Wedell, a broker with Coldwell Banker, told Bangor Daily News.

'The location is amazing It has access to water; that's almost priceless around here.'

A Maine property on a stunning coastal lot has hit the market for $300,000

The 576-square-foot, two-car garage sits on just under an acre of land and has direct access to scenic Potts Point

The 576-square-foot, two-car garage sits on just under an acre of land and has direct access to scenic Potts Point.

It boasts stunning vistas of Merriconeag Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

However, the listing agents acknowledge that some 'creative' septic system solutions will be required.

The property's asking price is a testament to the red hot demand for coastal properties in Maine at the moment.

The median house price listing in the fishing town of Harpswell has soared by 12.5 percent to $776,500 in the last year, according to Redfin.

On near-by Bailey's Island, a knock-down condition property was being sold for $375,000.

Low inventory combined with high demand has pushed out locals, according to select board chair Kevin Johnson.

There are currently just seven properties for sale under $400,000 in the area and just three rental listings, starting from $1,250 per month.

The listing is considerably less than the $776,500 median sale price of homes in the area

However, the property is just a garage, which currently has no plumbing system

So far, the garage has amassed more than 2,000 views on the Zillow website in just a week.

Coldwell Banker also has a few suggestions on how it could be best utilized.

They state the property could be used for 'parking cars or hobby building or Kayak Club or Storage'.

'Change out one garage door for wall of windows and make an art studio with amazing views,' the listing states.
TV star Will Mellor has revealed the heartbreaking impact Britain's riots chaos has had on his daughter, as he issued a passionate plea for people to 'do better than this'.

The Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps actor called slammed unrest across the country as a 'joke' as he described how his daughter had been left scared to leave the house by the violence.

The 48-year-old - who is from Bredbury, in Stockport - questioned how far-right rioters cannot see that 'all we are is people', as he said their claims are 'stupid'.

It comes as the country is bracing for a night of chaos, with 100 far-right protests and 30 counter-demonstrations planned across Britain.

Police vans are lining the streets in the biggest mobilisation of law enforcers since the 2011 riots, while hundreds of anti-racism counter-protesters have already turned out in Bristol, Birmingham, Brighton and several London boroughs.

The riots were sparked by misinformation fueled by Russian-linked fake news following a knife rampage that left three little girls, aged six, seven and nine, dead at a Taylor Swift holiday camp at Mellor's home town.

Speaking as he went on a walk to 'clear my head', the soap star said: 'I'm just sick of waking up to all this horrible, negative, hateful s***e on social media - mostly from faceless accounts that I am muting by the second - but it's horrible to read and see and the news...

The Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps actor called slammed unrest across the country as a 'joke' as he described how his daughter had been left scared to leave the house by the violence

A hit-list of 39 places around England has emerged online ahead of more planned protests tonight

A masked rioter runs in front of a bonfire in the middle of the road in Rotherham on Sunday

A riot police officer is injured during the clashes with far-Right protester outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham

'You know my daughter came to me the other day and she was scared about going out because of everything that's going on the streets of England. That's wrong man.

'I mean how can we not all see that all we are is people. That's all we are. The actions of a few don't represent the rest.

'There are bad eggs in every single culture and we need to sort that out but the only way we do that is by coming together as people.'

He continued: 'Come on man. We can do better than this. It's a joke.'

Gatherings are anticipated tonight in 41 of the 43 police force areas in England and Wales. A police source said: 'Today is probably going to be the busiest day of the week, into the evening.'

Thugs have been using now-banned channels on the messaging app to threaten the lives of anti-racism campaigners, make sick slurs and exchange tips on how to 'hood up' - as police vowed to catch those inciting violence, even online.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Stephen Parkinson has said one case of alleged terrorism is 'actively under consideration' following the mayhem of recent days while the King is reported to have asked aides for frequent updates.

Resources are being shared around the country as forces respond to intelligence, with the Metropolitan Police understood to be sending some officers to Manchester while others in the south east are also travelling to support colleagues in north east and north west forces.

Brits rallied behind Mellor as they listened to him, as they denounced rioters bringing violence to Britain's streets.

One, comedy club owner Alan Merryweather, said: 'So many people like Will Mellor talking sense. Listen to him rather than the hate mongers.'

Another, called Chris, added: 'Well said. We need more people saying this and the one per cent rioting don't represent the country.

'The majority are nice people who don't care what religion or colour someone is.'

Professor Christopher Painter, who is associated with the School of Social Sciences at Birmingham City University, commented: 'Disarming the far right of any credibility is as simple as this!'

And another fan said: 'I already love him as an actor, but I like him even more now. Absolutely, 100% agree.'
An Italian newspaper has sparked rage on social media after they used a picture of Kamala Harris wearing a Native American feathered headdress in their front page.

Il Tempo, a center right outlet, used the presidential candidate's inflammatory image along the title, 'Hunt for the white man' - referencing Harris' search for a running mate.

Social media users have been slamming the image as racist, and pointing out that Harris has no native American descendance; her father is Jamaican and her mother from India.

The paper's editor-in-chief Tommaso Cerno, however, has defended the cover, saying he chose the headdress because because 'redskins [sic] are the symbol par excellence of all America's minorities.

The editor added that the 'Italian left' is wrongly accusing him of confusing Harris' ethnicity.

An Italian newspaper has sparked rage on social media after they used a picture of Kamala Harris wearing a native American feathered headdress

Cerno's explanation has not been enough for many critics, who have continued speaking against the front paper choice.

One X user said: 'How racial tropes work: ignorance runs so deep that Italys rightwing newspaper Il Tempo ignores that Kamala Harris s mother was from Madras, India. Kamala is portrayed on frontpage as Native Indian under the title "white manhunt."'

Meanwhile an Italian X user said: 'There are no more words to comment on the level reached by these people.'

Harris was born and raised in Oakland, California.

Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a biomedical scientist and Indian native. She died in 2009. Her father Donald is an 82-year-old economist.

Harris was born and raised in Oakland, California. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a biomedical scientist and Indian native. She died in 2009. Her father Donald is an 82-year-old economist

Editor-in-chief Tommaso Cerno, however, defended the cover, saying he chose the headdress because because 'redskins [sic] are the symbol par excellence of all America's minorities

Il Tempo's front cover was about Harris' selection for her running mate, as the current VP was deciding between several white male politicians.

On Tuesday, Harris announced her choice: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Harris introduced the governor to the nation at a raucous rally in battleground Pennsylvania that was aimed at building momentum for the newly minted Democratic presidential ticket in the sprint toward Election Day.

'Hes the kind of person who makes people feel like they belong and then inspires them to dream big. ... Thats the kind of vice president America deserves,' Harris said while standing with Walz in Philadelphia.

The editor added that the 'Italian left' is wrongly accusing him of confusing Harris' ethnicity. She is pictured with her mother and younger sister

On Tuesday, Harris announced her VP choice: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz

Taking the microphone after Harris, Walz revved up the crowd for the rigorous campaign to come. 'Weve got 91 days. My God, thats easy. Well sleep when were dead,' he said.

The remarks reflected the urgency of the moment, with Harris tapping Walz for the ticket during one of the most turbulent periods in modern American politics.

Republicans have rallied around former President Donald Trump after he was targeted in an attempted assassination in July.

Just days later, President Joe Biden ended his reelection campaign, forcing Harris to scramble to unify Democrats and decide on a running mate over a breakneck two-week stretch.
An Arizona father and son found a two-carat diamond while visiting Arkansas' Crater of Diamonds State Park.

Will Barnett and his son Marshall made the discovery on July 27 after his uncle encouraged them to go there.

After filling up a few buckets with dirt, the pair headed to the park's south wash pavilion to sift through.

The father found the glittering gem at the bottom of his screen and said, 'Hey Marshall, you should take a look at this,' according to the park.

Staff at the parks Diamond Discovery Center confirmed the gem they found was a two-carat diamond.

Will Barnett and his son Marshall (pictured) found a two-carat diamond while visiting Arkansas' Crater of Diamonds State Park

The Barnett's diamond - which they named 'Minor Find' - is the 412th diamond and second largest registered at the park this year

'You could tell they knew they had found something special from the smiles on their faces,' said Park Interpreter Ashlyn Keys.

Crater of Diamonds State Park has a 37.5-acre diamond search area spread across the eroded surface of an ancient, diamond-bearing volcano.

It is one of the only places in the world where people can search for diamonds and take them home.

'Wet sifting is one of the most effective methods to search for diamonds,' said Keys.

'The search area has two wash pavilions, with water troughs and tables, for visitors to wet sift. Using screens to separate dirt from the gravel allows you to go through more material in less time, giving a better chance of finding a diamond.'

The Barnett's diamond - which they named 'Minor Find' - is the 412th diamond registered at the park this year and the second-largest diamond registered so far this year.

The average price of a two carat diamond can range between $2,000 to $30,000 depending on the cut, clarity and color

'While examining the diamond, I looked out the office window and asked Mrs. Keys who the finders were, then said, "Wait, let me guess: theyre the ones shaking with excitement,"' said Park Superintendent Caleb Howell.

The two-carat diamond is rectangular in shape and has a light brown color.

'The first thing I noticed was two large facets that really shined when the light hit them just right,' Howell said.

The average price of a two carat diamond can range between $2,000 to $30,000 depending on the cut, clarity and color, according to WithClarity.com.

Will's advice is anyone thinking of visiting the park is, 'It's worth looking, even if you don't find a diamond.'
The Prime Minister has been urged to rethink a 'dangerous' NHS plan to tackle the increasing numbers of children suffering gender identity crises  including a clinical trial of controversial puberty blockers involving teens.

Six new specialist clinics will be created by 2026 to support under 18s struggling with their gender identity, NHS England confirmed today.

Puberty blockers, which pause the physical changes of puberty, will also be made available to children who enroll in a new trial from as early as January next year.

But critics have described the trials as 'ethically unjustifiable' and warned they 'pose the very real risk of the NHS sacrificing the otherwise good health of vulnerable children and causing them grave physical harm in the name of research'.

They highlighted the potential for permanent damage to fertility and sexual functioning as they called on health chiefs to reconsider.

Lucy Marsh, from the Family Education Trust, said the charity had serious 'concerns' about the NHS' plan, particularly its trial of puberty blockers on teenagers, which she believes is 'unethical' and 'dangerous'.

Ms Marsh also said the money used to roll out the six new specialist clinics would be better spent elsewhere.

'It's a huge waste of taxpayer's money to roll out gender clinics to every area of England,' Ms Marsh told MailOnline.

Trans rights activists take part in a protest against the ban on hormone blockers on April 20, 2024

Retired consultant paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass speaking about the publication of the Independent Review of Gender Identity Services for Children and Young People (The Cass Review)

A trans rights activist takes part in a protest against the ban on hormone blockers on April 20, 2024

'We do not need more gender clinics, instead the NHS should be looking at the root causes of gender dysphoria including mental health issues, autism, sexual abuse and issues within the family.

'It is not 'kind' to lead children down a pathway that leads to irreversible harm and destroys families.

'We urge Keir Starmer to rethink his decision and protect children.'

Author James Esses shared Ms Marsh's concern about the trialing of puberty blockers and believes a more 'holistic' approach is the way forward.

He said: 'Mental health therapy is exactly how we should treat this, we should be treat this exactly how we treat other mental health issues.'

Mr Esses is the co-founder of Thoughtful Therapists  a group with shared concerns about the impact of gender identity ideology on children and young people.

He told MailOnline: 'If the NHS does end up trialing puberty blockers, we already know the harm they cause because of the Cass Review and the ban implemented on puberty blockers by the previous government  and children have been irreversibly damaged, so I'm concerned about that.'

The details emerged as NHS England set out how it plans to 'transform' gender healthcare services for children and young people in line with the landmark Cass Review.

Leading paediatrician Dr Hilary Cass made more than 30 recommendations to overhaul NHS services in a bid to improve care offered to trans-children.

Her report, published this April, 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 warned evidence for the use of puberty blockers and hormones relied heavily on 'shaky foundations' and associated guidelines were not supported by science.

It led the then health secretary Victoria Atkins to implement a ban on the prescribing of the drugs to transgender children.

Naomi Cunningham, chair of human rights charity Sex Matters, said: 'The commitment to collecting comprehensive and standardised data marks a radical improvement on the opaque and substandard practices of the past.

'We understand why the NHS and Dr Hilary Cass believe that clinical trials of puberty blockers are necessary, but we would urge them to reconsider.

'Such trials are ethically unjustifiable, given the known risks of permanent damage to fertility, sexual functioning and general health.

Dr Hilary Cass said the length of the waiting list to access gender services had 'significant implications' for children and their families

Great Ormond Street Hospital in London is one of two hubs that replaced the scandal-hit Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust

'While well-meaning, these trials pose the very real risk of the NHS sacrificing the otherwise good health of vulnerable children and causing them grave physical harm in the name of research.'

The new regional centres join two existing clinics in Liverpool and London that replace the scandal-hit Tavistock Gender Identity Development Service, which shut its doors in July 2022.

Health chiefs said the new centres will focus on providing a more 'holistic' approach including supporting mental health and kids with conditions such as autism.

NHS bosses will also tighten up the criteria for referrals to specialist clinics, with patients having to see two doctors beforehand.

More than 5,700 under-18s in England and Wales are currently on the national waiting list. There are currently two specialist hubs, which came into service last April.

The clinics  led by London's Great Ormond Street Hospital and Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool  replaced the scandal hit Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust.

The health service today said all new referrals to specialist gender services must be made through mental health or paediatric services to ensure every child or young person has had a thorough assessment of need.

The new services will have no minimum age requirement, in order to ensure that parents of very young children, as young as five, are given support through NHS services where necessary.

Alongside children and young people's services, NHS England has also published plans for a review into adult gender services.

Dr Hilary Cass said she was 'pleased' the NHS was planning to 'fully implement' her recommendations but warned that the process ahead is likely to be 'challenging'.

She added: 'I am pleased that NHS England is planning to fully implement the recommendations of my Review and the next important step will be the most challenging  turning it into a reality.

'The vision of the Review  reflected in the implementation plan  is to increase available services for gender-questioning young people which take a holistic approach to care addressing the needs of each individual, and which put in place a full package of care which can be delivered as close to home as possible.

'Setting up a new collaborative of regional providers will also bring in leaders from professional societies, education, and research, to ensure these services continue to develop in line with evidence and best practice to support children and young people.'

Puberty blockers, which pause the physical changes of puberty such as breast development or facial hair, will now only be available to children as part of clinical research trials. Pictured, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust which has been accused of rushing children onto puberty blocking drugs by former patients who feel they weren't challenged enough

Professor James Palmer, NHS medical director for specialised commissioning, said: 'The roll out of new specialist centres in every region across England will be central to improving and expanding NHS gender services for children and young people, to ensure that they receive evidence-based, responsive, holistic care  and the Cass Review is the backbone on which our implementation plan is based.

'It's clear that our services for adults need focus too. The waiting times for care are too long and experiences of care are too variable.

'The review needs to address poor experience but also learn from good experiences of care.

'It's vital we hear from patients and staff, some of whom have raised concerns to Dr Cass, and this review will be a further opportunity for them to be heard.

'There remains considerable work to do, but we are already making progress on a number of Dr Cass' recommendations, and our plans published today set how we will establish services that provide the care that patients and their families need to thrive.'

Previously, the only NHS clinic providing gender services for children was the Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust in London.

It was criticised for its approach which relied heavily on medical intervention, using puberty blockers to delay the onset of puberty, despite a lack of evidence the medication had a positive impact.

Its services had previously been rated as inadequate by inspectors in January 2021.

Dr Cass's review also found GPs were 'pressurised to prescribe hormones' by patients who had seen a private clinician.

The report, which ran to nearly 400 pages, issued a stern warning over 'the use of unregulated medications and of providers that are not regulated within the UK'.

And Dr Cass said GPs should resist attempts by private providers to prescribe puberty blockers or hormones, 'particularly if that private provider is acting outside NHS guidance'.
The man police allege murdered a Ballarat mother will return to court just days after Samantha Murphy's loved ones marked six months since she vanished.

Alleged killer Patrick Orren Stephenson, 23, is expected to appear before the Ballarat Magistrates' Court on Thursday morning as both prosecutors and his lawyers provide an update on how the case is progressing.

The hearing comes five months to the day since he last faced court, with police granted a longer-than-usual period of 20 weeks to prepare their brief of evidence against the accused man.

This was due to be delivered to his legal team before July 25, allowing them two weeks to review the case and seek instructions.

The Ballarat-born son of a former AFL player, Mr Stephenson last month marked his 23rd birthday in custody, where he has remained since he was charged on March 7.

Police have remained tight-lipped about the methods used to identify the accused man, with Chief Commissioner Shane Patton saying the arrest came after a 'painstaking and methodical investigation'.

'He has been charged with murder so, by definition, we are saying this was a deliberate attack on Samantha,' he said.

'In the interview with the suspect, he has not disclosed to police where her body is.'

The man police allege murdered a Ballarat mother will return to court just days after Samantha Murphy's loved ones marked six months since she vanished (pictured, Samantha Murphy)

Alleged killer Patrick Orren Stephenson (pictured), 23, is expected to appear before the Ballarat Magistrates' Court on Thursday morning as both prosecutors and his lawyers provide an update on how the case is progressing

Ms Murphy vanished after leaving her Eureka St home on February 4 to go for a run.

Her disappearance shocked the community and quickly became one of the most high-profile missing persons investigations in the state.

She is believed to have reached the Mount Clear area, adjacent to the Woowookarung Regional Park, about an hour after leaving about 7am.

According to court documents, Mr Stephenson allegedly murdered Ms Murphy within the Mount Clear area - where he resides - the day she vanished.

The 51-year-old's family reported her missing to police later that day after she failed to attend a brunch.

Despite extensive searches by police and volunteers over the coming weeks, no traces of the missing mum were found until police revealed 'items of interest', including a mobile phone, were pulled from a dam in late May.

Last Sunday, Mrs Murphy's family, friends and the wider Ballarat community marked a solemn milestone - six months since the mother of three left for a morning run to never return.

Details of the alleged murder have not been aired in court and Mr Stephenson has not been required to enter a plea.

Ms Murphy was last captured on CCTV leaving home about 7am on February 4
A PE teacher who filmed himself having sex with a 14-year-old girl in her school uniform and was only caught when his girlfriend discovered sick messages on his phone has been jailed for almost seven years.

Bryan Russell-Keely, 36, pleaded guilty to more than 10 charges, including sexually penetrating a child under 16, producing and possessing child abuse material and sexual assault of a child at Bendigo County Court on Wednesday.

He was jailed for six years and eight months but will be eligible for parole after four years.

The victim was a student at a Bendigo secondary school, around 150km north-west of Melbourne.

The pair started messaging in May 2023 when Russell-Keely was 34-years-old - 20 years her senior.

He would drive the child to isolated bushland locations for sex and sometimes film the acts on his phone.

On one occasion, she was still in her uniform when he picked her up.

Bryan Russell-Keely (pictured), 36, pleaded guilty to more than 10 charges, including sexually penetrating a child under 16, producing and possessing child abuse material and sexual assault of a child at Bendigo County Court on Wednesday

He was jailed for six years and eight months but will be eligible for parole after four years

Russell-Keely warned his victim of the ramifications for himself if she told anyone.

'You asked her for her silence and her loyalty,' judge Fiona Todd told him in her sentencing remarks, reported The Age.

'You put a child in a position of being responsible for your welfare.'

His depraved actions unravelled when his girlfriend discovered messages between him and the student in August 2023 and reported them to the police.

The PE teacher was arrested at school soon after where he admitted he was 'f***ed'.

Despite being granted bail on the condition that he refrained from contacting the victim, Russell-Keely pestered her with messages telling her she was a 'beautiful angel' and 'worth fighting for'.

'She was 14 and 15 years old,' the judge reminded him.

'After your offending was detected, and you were bailed, you persistently contacted her in an attempt to carry on in what you had deluded yourself into believing was an erotic and affectionate relationship.

Despite being granted bail on the condition that he refrained from contacting the victim, Russell-Keely (pictured) pestered her with messages telling her she was a 'beautiful angel' and 'worth fighting for'

'No such relationship was possible between you, her teacher senior to her by 20 years, and a child.'

The girl said in a victim impact statement that the relationship had 'distorted her understanding of love and intimacy', leaving her with intense feelings of shame and sadness.

Judge Todd said it was a 'trust-shattering event'.

'These are just some of the poisonous consequences for your victim and her family,' she added.

Russell-Keely will be a registered sex offender for life and will not be able to work as a teacher again.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre tore into comments by Rep. Cori Bush Wednesday following the 'squad' member's angry tirade after her primary defeat.

'The President has always been very clear and very recently after the assassination attempt of the last president about lowering rhetoric  lowering the rhetoric and the importance of doing that,' Jean-Pierre told DailyMail.com hours after Bush became the second Democratic 'squad' member to be voted out of office.

'It is important that we be very mindful of what we say. This kind of rhetoric is inflammatory, and divisive and incredibly unhelpful,' she continued. 'And we're going to condemn any type of political rhetoric in that way, in that vein, and so it is important to be mindful in what we say and how we say it. But we cannot have this type of inflammatory and divisive language in our political discourse.'

Her condemnation at the daily press briefing of the Missouri lawmaker's comments came after Bush went on an angry tirade after losing to prosecutor Wesley Bell in her St. Louis district.

That made her the second Squad member to be taken down, following the defeat of New York Rep. Jamaal Bowman.

Bush blamed her defeat on pro-Israel group AIPAC after the powerful pro-Israel lobby spent heavily against her, pouring $9 million against her.

'AIPAC, I'm coming to tear your kingdom down,' Bush said in a comment she did not further explain.

'This kind of rhetoric is inflammatory, and divisive and incredibly unhelpful,' said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, asked about an on-stage meltdown by Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) following her primary defeat

Jean-Pierre's comments on turning down the temperature come as Vice President Kamala Harris is seeking new ways to try to take on Donald Trump, with supporters calling him 'weird' rather than a threat to democracy. At a Wisconsin campaign rally, Harris tried to divert supporters who were chanting 'lock him up,' saying the courts would handle that part.

Trump and running mate J.D. Vance have been trying to label Harris' running mate Gov. Tim Walz as a radical, with Republicans pointing to his remark that 'one persons socialism is another persons neighborliness.'

Biden and his team have made efforts to keep their distance from comments by 'squad members' and the defund-the-police movement, even while Trump has repeatedly sought to link them. As her victorious opponent pointed out, Bush voted against Biden's 2021 infrastructure bill.

During her remarks, Bush paced back and forth on the stage and spoke so loudly that the microphone shook. The former Black Lives Matter organizer condemned 'corporations' and AIPAC, charging them with orchestrating her ousting.

Bush told the crowd that now she is no longer bound to the decorum of Congress, and that now she had 'some of the strings [cut] off,' her opponents will 'see this other Cori, this other side.'

Squad member Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., lost her Democratic primary election to St. Louis-based prosecutor Wesley Bell. Addressing the crowd at her watch party following her defeat, she denounced pro-Israel group AIPAC for plotting against her and 'put all these corporations on notice' too

'Pulling me away from my position as congresswoman, all you did was take some of the strings off,' she proclaimed.

'Let's be clear, let's be clear, let's be clear,' Bush chants over and over again, 'let's talk about what it really is.'

Meanwhile, AIPAC on Wednesday morning celebrated Bush's loss.

'AIPAC and our 4.5 million grassroots members were proud to help progressive pro-Israel leader Wesley Bell defeat anti-Israel Squad member Rep. Cori Bush last night,' the group posted on X.

'Being pro-Israel is good policy and good politics!'

The Missouri Democrat told the approving audience that she now needs to be feared that her tenure in Congress is winding down.

'As much as I love my job, all they did was radicalize me, so now they need to be afraid,' she said Tuesday night. 'They about to see this other Cori, this other side.'

'And let me put all of these corporations on notice: I'm coming after you too. But I'm not coming by myself. I'm coming with all the people that's in here.'

'I don't fear you,' she said. 'I don't fear anything ... so if this happened it was meant to happen.'

The Associated Press projected Bush's loss three hours after polls closed, while she trailed by about five points.

Bush thanks her supporters following her Democratic primary loss to St. Louis Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell. Bush is the first African-American woman to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives from Missouri

The crowd adored the fiery antics displayed by Bush at her campaign party Tuesday, loudly cheering and applauding for her as she threatened AIPAC and defiantly warned corporations

Wesley Bell addresses the crowd after winning the Democratic congressional primary against incumbent U.S. Rep. Cori Bush on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024 at the Marriott Grand Hotel in downtown St. Louis. Bush slammed Bell for his support from pro-Israel groups. AIPAC congratulated Bell on his victory Tuesday

'I am committed to serving the St. Louis region in Congress with integrity, transparency, and dedication,' Bell said in a statement after winning.

'Together, we will tackle the challenges ahead and build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.'

Another quad member, Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., similarly lost his primary to a more moderate Democrat earlier this summer.

Bush had faced millions in outside money dumped into her race from pro-Israel groups who opposed her staunch pro-Palestinian stance.

'Wesley Bell's victory and Cori Bush's defeat underscore what we've seen in races across the country and throughout this election cycle  being pro-Israel is not just wise policy, but also smart politics,' said Mark Mellman, chairman of the Democratic Majority for Israel PAC, in a statement.

Similar to Bush's race against Bell, Bowman's race in New York hinged on a key issue: the Israel-Hamas war.

(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

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.

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.

In Bush's race, AIPAC's affiliated political arm spent $8.5 million dollars, the AP reported.

In Bowman's race the pro-Israel group spent nearly $15 million.

Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., another member of the Squad who faces a tight reelection race, will have her primary next Tuesday.
Passengers are facing days of chaos on Scotlands ferry network after bosses were forced to cancel two lifeline routes.

A fire aboard a vessel has seen sailings on one route suspended until the weekend, while technical issues have meant another service has been cancelled until the middle of next week and passengers sent on a two-hour diversion.

It comes as the ageing network has been hit with a series of issues in recent days forcing boats out of action at the busiest time of the year.

Graham Simpson, Scottish Conservative transport spokesman, said the cancellations would come as no surprise to communities and CalMacs fleet simply cannot be relied upon.

He said: It is a hammer blow at the height of the summer for the struggling island economy and will hugely impact those who use it.

MV Lord of the Isles sailing to South Uist is out of action after a small fire on board caused an engine failure

The blame lies firmly with the SNP who have failed to deliver the new lifeline ferries our islands urgently require and have left them with services that are not fit for the modern age.

CalMac revealed that on Tuesday the MV Lord of the Isles, which was sailing the 2pm service between Mallaig, on the mainland, and Lochboisdale, on South Uist, suffered an engine problem following a small fire.

Crews dealt with the blaze, with no injuries reported, but the flames caused the starboard main engine to fail.

While the sailings on the route were cancelled yesterday because of bad weather, CalMac said last night the route would not operate up until and including this Saturday because of the incident.

Another route Highlanders rely on was cancelled for six days amid redeployments because of technical issues elsewhere on the network - ones which were unconnected to the MV Lord of the Isles.

The service, across Loch Fyne between Tarbet and Portavadie, in Argyll, has been suspended from August 8 until August 14.

Independent councillor for the area Alastair Redman has now called on CalMac to be fined, and has said his constituents have been left furious about the complete fiasco.

He said: My constituents are completely flabbergasted by this decision.

We were completely blindsided by it, and it couldnt have come at a worse time.

Frankly we are sick of this.

He said the frontline ferry workers did a brilliant job but could only work with the tools they have.

Being a mainland service, there is road access, but drivers face a lengthy two-hour detour to get between the two villages.

CalMac said it hoped to have the service back earlier and said there were no other vessels available in the fleet which can quickly be redeployed.

Its spokesman added: We are very sorry for the disruption and inconvenience that this will cause to our customers, but with a lack of vessels available to support, we have to make these difficult decisions if an island is being left without alternative transport connections.

The disruption comes against a series of issues with CalMacs services.

On August 4 the MV Bute was out of action for more than 90 minutes after a water leak in an engine.

The next day the MV Lord of the Isles had an engine issue and was out of action for just over 13 hours.

Meanwhile, the MV Isle of Cumbrae was taken off service the same day because of cracks in its ramps, and was out of action for 26 hours.

Tory transport spokesman Graham Simpson hit out at the SNP over the ageing CalMac fleet

And on Tuesday MC Lord of the Isles was taken out of action following the fire, the cause of which is being investigated.

It was nursed to Armadale using its port-side engine, and arrangements are being made to move her to dock in Greenock for further investigation.

Finlay MacRae, head of operations for CalMac, said: The fire was quickly extinguished using the vessels fire suppression system and there were no injuries, but it led to the loss of power in the starboard engine.

This was a long night for our customers, and I apologise for the disruption caused to them.

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: We recognise the impact that delays and disruption have regrettably had on our island communities and this government is committed to investing in our ferry services.

That is why delivering six new major vessels to serve Scotlands ferry network by 2026 is a priority for this government.

'We have also started the procurement process for seven new smaller vessels as part of phase one of the Small Vessel Replacement Plan.

We continue to work with operators and CMAL to improve resilience across our networks.
The frantic hunt for a missing autistic boy who nearly drowned in a Florida pond had a happy ending thanks to a hero deputy.

The five-year-old escaped from his home in Deltona on Tuesday night around 7:30 p.m., police said. An alarm went off alerting his parents that he was no longer inside the home.

They immediately went looking for the boy as neighbors called 911. Deputies from the Volusia Sheriff's Office searched the immediate area with a focus on bodies of water, as the child was attracted to water, officials said.

Nearly 20 minutes into the search, the boy was found in a pond a few blocks from his home by Deputy Wes Brough, who heard a voice and then saw the boy holding onto a log.

The deputy jumped into the pond to grab the child, with video footage showing the Brough holding the young boy.

Deputy Wes Brough is pictured rescuing the boy from the pond

The sheriff is seen jumping into the pond running towards the youngster

Authorities said the boy was medically cleared and was returned to his family.

The youngster's family told police they have several measures to secure the house, including an alarm on the door.

Brough has received Autism Awareness Training to help prepare for a variety of calls involving people with autism, including missing children, police said.

'Great job to all involved on this call,' officials said.
They passed through the forbidding gates of the Tower of London and were either executed or murdered within its walls.

Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey and the boy Princes Edward and Richard were all victims in the castle's long history.

And now a set stamps is being issued marking their place in the story of the mighty fortress by the Thames.

Prince Edward and his brother Richard  who were 12 and nine years old when they were supposedly murdered on the order of their uncle Richard III in 1483  feature on one stamp.

Three more feature Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's second wife executed in 1536, Lady Jane Grey, the 'Nine Days' Queen' executed at the age of 17 in 1554, and explorer and statesman Sir Walter Raleigh, imprisoned in the Tower and executed at Westminster in 1618 after falling out of favour with James I.

Royal Mail has partnered with Historic Royal Palaces to produce special stamps featuring royals who met a grisly end in the Tower of London

Lady Jane Grey, the 'Nine Days' Queen' executed at the age of 17 in 1554, also features

Prince Edward and his brother Richard  who were 12 and nine years old when they were supposedly murdered on the order of their uncle Richard III in 1483  feature on one stamp

Explorer and statesman Sir Walter Raleigh, imprisoned in the Tower and executed at Westminster in 1618 after falling out of favour with James I

The special commemorative stamps are being released next week

The commemorative stamps tell the story of the mighty fortress by the Thames - and its resident prisoners over the centuries

Four other stamps show different parts of the building  The White Tower, Tower Green and The King's House, St John's Chapel and Traitors' Gate, while two more feature Yeoman Warders and one of the Tower's ravens.

Royal Mail has partnered with Historic Royal Palaces to produce the ten stamps, which are released next week.

David Gold of Royal Mail said: 'Over the centuries the Tower has played many different roles  from impenetrable fortress to royal residence, menagerie of exotic animals to place of execution, Royal Mint to home of the Crown Jewels.

'These stamps celebrate the myth and legend, ceremony and tradition of one of the most famous buildings in the world.'

The release of the stamps is timely  the Mail has launched its history podcast series Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things.

Royal Mail has been producing British commemorative stamps for just over 100 years.

Four other stamps show different parts of the building  in this instance The White Tower

Historic venue: This stamp shows the surroundings at the Tower of London

One of the stamps shows the famous entry point into the castle for the royal prisoners

The stamps feature the history, buildings and traditions of the capital's famous landmark

The beloved Yeoman Warders are also the subject of one of the stamps in the special set

One of the most recognisable symbols of the Tower of London - a black raven

In April, new stamps were issued to mark the milestone centenary of special sets with a selection of previously issued commemorative stamps through the decades.

The first, which were created in 1924, commemorated the opening of the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley Park in London.

Since then, the special stamp sets have featured everything from historical events to pop culture to sports, royalty, literature, film and television and music.
A bombshell lawsuit details the 'terror and anguish' those on board the ill-fated Titan submersible likely faced in their horrific final moments before the vessel imploded in June 2023.

The $50million lawsuit says the 'doomed' submersible had a 'troubled history,' and claims that OceanGate and its now-deceased CEO Stockton Rush failed to disclose key facts about the vessel and its durability before French explorer Paul-Henri Nargeolet, 77, and three others took the dive on June 18, 2023.

It argues that both the company and Rush were negligent in building the submersible even as it advertised the opportunity to 'become one of the few to see the Titanic with your own eyes' at $250,000 a ticket.

Those failures then led the Titan to drop weights just 90 minutes into the voyage, indicating that the team aborted or attempted to abort their dive.

A $50million negligence lawsuit has been brought against OceanGate and its now-deceased CEO Stockton Rush

The lawsuit details the 'terror and anguish' those on board the ill-fated Titan submersible likely faced in their horrific final moments before the ship imploded in June 2023

'While the exact cause of failure may never be determined, experts agree that the Titan's crew would have realized what was happening,' says the lawsuit, filed in King County, Washington on Tuesday by Nargeolet's family.

'Common sense dictates that the crew were well aware they were going to die, before dying,' it continues.

'The crew may well have heard the carbon fiber's crackling noise grow more intense as the weight of the water pressed on Titan's hull. The crew lost communications and perhaps power as well.

'By experts' reckoning, they would have continued to descend, in full knowledge of the vessel's irreversible failures, experiencing terror and mental anguish prior to the Titan ultimately imploding.'

It was brought by the family of French explorer Paul-Henri Nargeolet, 77, who died in the June 2023 tragedy

Also onboard the ship were British billionaire adventurer Hamish Harding and Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman, who was just 19

The suit goes on to criticize the Titan's 'hip, contemporary, wireless electronics system' and states that 'none of the controller, controls or gauges would work without a constant source of power and a wireless signal.'

It also labels Rush, who was operating the vessel on the fateful trip, as 'an eccentric and self-styled "innovator" in the deep-sea diving industry,' and names his estate as one of the defendants.

Following the disaster, both OceanGate and Rush faced criticism for the faulty design of the vessel.

In an interview with CBS News months earlier, Rush admitted: 'We run the whole thing with this game controller.'

When reporter David Pogue asked him: 'It seems like this submersible has some elements of MacGyvery, jerry-rigness. I mean, you're putting construction pipes as ballast.'

But Rush replied: 'I don't know if I'd use that description of it. But there's certain things that you want to be buttoned down.

'So the pressure vessel is not MacGyver at all because that's where we work with Boeing and Nasa and the University of Washington. Everything else could fail. Your thrusters can go, your lights can go, you're still going to be safe.'

Yet Rush failed to mention that a professional trained group had warned in 2018 that OceanGate's experimental approach to the design of the submersible could lead to potentially 'catastrophic' outcomes.

He had refused to get a third-party certification stating the Titan was safe at the time and repeatedly ignored warnings that his vessel was a deathtrap that 'would kill someone,' describing them as a 'serious personal insult.'

Following the disaster, both OceanGate and Rush faced criticism for the faulty design of the cramped vessel

But the new lawsuit contends that Nargeolet - who had been hired to provide commentary about the Titanic and had already completed 37 dives to the wreckage site - was never made aware of 'many of the particulars about the vessel's flaws and shortcomings.'

It claims those issues 'were purposely concealed' from him, and apparently the others on board, including Shahzada Dawood and his 19-year-old son Suleman, British billionaire Hamish Harding.

If those issues had been disclosed, Nargeolet would not have participated in the voyage that took off at around 8am on June 18 in the Atlantic Ocean, above the site of the Titanic shipwreck, his attorneys argue.

The Titan took off in the Atlantic Ocean on June 18, and lost communication just 90 minutes later

By 9:45am, the vessel lost all contact with its mothership, the Polar Prince.

Yet OceanGate Expeditions took eight hours to report the missing sub to the US Coast Guard after it lost contact.

That led to a massive international response to rescue the five passengers. Ships from across the globe started to make the trek to help search for the missing sub while the hours and estimated oxygen ticked down.

It was also revealed that a US Navy monitoring system picked up a possible sound of the vessel imploding in the descent - but search efforts continued.

Finally, after a frantic four-day search, a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) tragically discovered Titan's debris, about 1,600 feet from the bow of the Titanic.

All five men on board died instantly when Titan suffered a 'catastrophic implosion', authorities ruled.

After a frantic four-day search, a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) tragically discovered Titan's debris, about 1,600 feet from the bow of the Titanic

The lawsuit now blames the implosion on the 'persistent carelessness, recklessness and negligence' of OceanGate and Rush.

'Decedent Nargeolet may have died doing what he loves to do, but his death - and the death of the other Titan crew members - was wrongful,' it states.

Attorney Tony Buzbee, of the Buzbee Law Firm in Houston, Texas - which is representing Nargeolet's family, said he hopes the lawsuit will 'get answers for the family as to exactly how this happened, who all were involved and how those involved could allow this to happen.'

He added that he thinks it is 'telling that even though the University of Washington and Boeing had key roles in the design of previous but smaller versions of the Titan, both have recently disclaimed any involvement at all in the submersible model that imploded.'

Several different theories have been floated about what may have caused the Titan to implode

Several different theories have been floated about what may have caused the implosion.

In a paper in the journal of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), research lead and professor of civil and environmental engineering, Roberto Ballarini, suggested that imperfections in the carbon fiber used to build the Titan sub's hull could be to blame for the devastating implosion.

He further suggested that any damage that had built up from the vessel's previous dives could have made it vulnerable to 'micro-buckling.'

'Buckling in the simplest explanation: you take a long spaghetti and you push on it with two fingers. What's going to happen? It's going to buckle essentially, it's going to snap,' Ballarini explained.

'That's what buckling is. It's when you compress something and it deforms by a significant amount because it's an instability.'

Researchers were not able to examine whether micro-buckling was behind the Titan failure - but they looked at vessels of similar shapes and materials.

Other experts have blamed the hull's carbon fiber composite material.

Small imperfections that could go undetected make vessels, like the Titan, at risk of collapsing under intense pressure.

Now that the ship has completely imploded, researchers will likely never determine the exact location of the flaw that caused the tragic event.

Still, the US Coast Guard is continuing to investigate the tragedy.

'We are working closely with our domestic and international partners to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident,' board chair Jason Neubauer said in a statement in June.

A key public hearing is scheduled for September.
Scottish Tory leadership challenger Murdo Fraser has been accused of plotting a Trojan Horse campaign to split up the party.

Shadow Scottish Secretary John Lamont has today warned party members that the leadership candidate was trying to break up the UK Conservatives by stealth.

He said a new commission proposed by Mr Fraser to look at changing the Conservative Party in Scotland was pulling the wool over the memberships eyes.

Writing in todays Mail, Mr Lamont said the proposal to review the constitution and structure looked more like a bid to revive Mr Frasers failed dream of a breakaway operation.

He said it was not right that Mr Fraser was not being completely straight with grassroots activists about his position.

Divisive? Murdo Fraser says he wants to hand the party back to its members

His explosive comments come after Mr Fraser yesterday became the sixth MSP to announce he would stand to replace current leader Douglas Ross.

Mr Lamont blasted: If its a Trojan Horse to divide the party in two, then members should know that upfront.

The Borders MP added: We should not break away from our UK Conservative family, full stop.

Mr Fraser has joined former journalist Russell Findlay, deputy leader Meghan Gallacher, education spokesman Liam Kerr, former Olympic runner Brian Whittle and backbencher Jamie Greene in the contest to run the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party.

His insistence that he was not planning to split the party has been met with scepticism from colleagues after he made it the central plank of his pitch the last time he stood.

A Tory source said: Its Murdo trying to put the toothpaste back in the tube.

In 2011, the Mid Scotland and Fife MSP proposed replacing the Scottish Tories with a new party for Scotland on the centre-Right that voted with the UK Conservatives at Westminster. The idea was in response to a decade of the Tories having just one Scottish MP.

The party had also suffered losses at Holyrood in the austerity-dominated early days of the Tory-LibDem coalition at Westminster.

But the idea led to a blistering backlash from senior party figures and donors, who said a split would fundamentally undermine the party of the Union.

Mr Fraser was defeated by Ruth Davidson who went on to be the partys most electorally successful leader in Scotland.

Last month she warned a divided party was a short route to electoral suicide.

Mr Fraser recently said his 2011 scheme was too radical and that he no longer supports it.

However, he still favours a two-party model which he admits could be divisive.

He has suggested an arrangement in which the UK Conservatives fought general elections in Scotland but a separate Scottish Tory party contested Holyrood.

Launching his new leadership bid, he published a 12-point plan that included the creation of an independently chaired commission to review the party constitution and structure, with a view to strengthening the role of senior elected volunteers.

Its recommendations would be acted upon after the 2026 Holyrood election, he said. But its membership and remit are unknown, potentially allowing Mr Fraser to influence its composition and direction if he became leader.

There are now six Scottish Tories in the running to be the next leader of the party

The former deputy leader said he wanted to give the party back to its members. Activists had been let down by Boris Johnson over Partygate, Liz Trusss mini-budget, Rishi Sunaks D-Day blunder and Douglas Ross and his team, he added.

Mr Fraser said: I wont be splitting the party or setting up a new one  my aim is to unite our party, not divide it.

In any event, these are questions for the membership as a whole, not the leader, and we have had too much top-down decision-making in the past. This is not my first attempt to lead my party. But it is my most important.

This party is fractured. It is unhappy. It is vulnerable. Continuity wont cut it.

Mr Lamont, who was Lady Davidsons campaign manager in 2011 and has yet to decide who to back, said Mr Fraser still appeared hell-bent on creating a separate Scottish party.

He said: United, we can win elections, stand up for conservative values and deliver for people up and down Scotland. But divided, well get nowhere.

Nominations for the leadership close on August 22 and the winner is due to be named on September 27.

Mr Ross announced he would quit as leader after a backlash to him standing again for Westminster despite pledging to focus on Holyrood. He went on to lose Aberdeenshire North and Moray East to the SNP.

A spokesman for the Fraser campaign said: It does sound like John Lamont is just chasing shadows here. The constitution was last reviewed in 2010 and after 14 years a number of anomalies have been identified, not least the need for a stronger grassroots voice.

Any changes should be matters for the party membership to determine, not dictated by the leader, as Murdo has made clear.

It is disappointing that there are senior figures in the party who dont trust the membership to take decisions and want everything decided centrally.

Sadly that has characterised the leadership style we have had in recent years, and that is what needs to change.
Hunter Biden was hired by a Romanian oligarch in an 'attempt to influence U.S. government agencies,' earning around $1 million for work that was structured to avoid 'political ramifications' for Joe Biden, who was then vice president.

The bombshell claim was revealed in court filings on Wednesday tied to the younger Biden's federal tax case. And it marks the closest prosecutors have come to tying President Biden to his son's overseas business deals.

Gabriel Popoviciu, a real estate tycoon, was facing bribery and corruption charges in his home country. In an attempt to avoid the charges, Popoviciu hired Hunter Biden and his business associates in late 2015 to help his case.

Hunter, however, was 'concerned that lobbying work might cause political ramifications' for his father, so the deal was structured in a way that 'concealed the true nature of the work he was performing.'

President Joe Biden with his sister Valerie Owens and son Hunter Biden

Prosecutors allege, in order to avoid the Foreign Agents Registration Act, Hunter and Popoviciu signed an agreement where Hunter's law firm would 'provide management services to real estate properties in Romania.'

But 'that was not actually' what Popoviciu was paying for. He and Hunter had a 'oral' agreement on what Hunter Biden would actually do  influence U.S. agencies on the tycoon's behalf.

The deal was structured to avoid FARA because Hunter was concerned about 'political ramifications' for his father, the documents state. In 2016, Biden was vice president and weighing a presidential bid, which he ultimately did not pursue until the 2020 election.

Under the FARA law, the Justice Department requires any American doing lobbying business for a foreign government to register as a foreign agent.

Hunter structured the deal in an effort to avoid have to register, even though he and his business partners did reach out to government officials, specifically the United States Department of State.'

Hunter Biden's law firm received $3.1 million for the deal with Hunter taking about one-third of that money, the documents state.

Ultimately Popoviciu was found guilty in 2016 of bribing a university official to buy a 550-acre plot of government-owned land in a cut-price deal.

Prosecutors in special counsel David Weiss' office have been investigating Hunter Biden's work with foreign entities and whether Hunter should have registered his overseas work.

But he 'performed almost no work in exchange for the millions of dollars he received' from Popoviciu, a Chinese energy company, or Burisma, the Ukrainian energy company, the documents allege.

Gabriel Popoviciu, a real estate tycoon in Romania, hired Hunter

Hunter Biden served on the board of Burisma Holdings Ltd., an oil and gas company in Ukraine, from May 2014 and left in April 2019, from the time his father served as vice president until he began running for president.

He and his business associates also did work for Chinese companies like State Energy HK Ltd. and CEFC China Energy Co. Ltd.

A document filed with Hunter Biden's rejected plea agreement said in 2017 he earned 'just under $1 million' from a company he formed with a Chinese CEO, $664,000 from a Chinese infrastructure company and $500,000 in director's fees from Burisma.

Republicans on Capitol Hill have repeatedly tried to tie Joe Biden to Hunter's work.

The president has said multiple times he had no involvement in his son's business affairs.

Hunter Biden faces three felony tax charges and additional misdemeanors for allegedly failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes from 2016 to 2020

Hunter, who was convicted on gun charges earlier this summer, faces a September trial tied to his taxes.

The president's son faces three felony tax charges and additional misdemeanors for allegedly failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes from 2016 to 2020. The back taxes and penalties were previously paid in full by a third party by Hunter Biden's attorney Kevin Morris.
The petty crook famously caught on camera loudly objecting to being arrested after eating a 'succulent Chinese meal' has died aged 82.

A television news crew filmed Jack Karlson shouting at police outside a Brisbane restaurant in 1991 and when footage of his outburst was uploaded to YouTube in 2009 it went viral.

The faded vision showed a moustachioed Karlson delivering a series of Shakespearean-sounding lines as he was reluctantly dragged away from his lunch table.

'Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest!' he boomed at the camera. 'Get your hand off my penis!

'What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal? Ooh, that's a nice headlock, sir. Ah yes, I see that you know your judo well.'

Karlson's arrest was a case of mistaken identity, but the minute-long clip has since become the subject of countless memes and even its own line of merchandise.

His death comes just weeks after Karlson's family announced he was suffering from prostate cancer.

Karlson's story was told in the book Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr Rent-a-Kill and the Australian Manson Murders by journalist Mark Dapin.

Jack Karlson struggles with police outside a Brisbane restaurant on October 11, 1991, in one of the most-viewed arrest videos of all time. His arrest for suspected credit card fraud was a case of mistaken identity - but his real life story is far more extraordinary

The one-time stage and television actor and occasional painter is also set to appear in an upcoming documentary titled The Man Who Ate A Succulent Chinese Meal.

To publicise that film, Karlson was recently reunited with one of the officers who apprehended him at the China Sea diner in Fortitude Valley all those years ago.

Seven Network reporter Chris Reason had rushed to the restaurant that day after a tip-off one of Queensland's most wanted men had used a stolen credit card to pay for his meal.

Karlson was not the suspect police had originally thought but his arrest was so colourful it made great television and has taken on a life of its own.

One of the arresting officers, Stoll Watt, appeared on ABC News Breakfast alongside Karlson in June when the men were asked what they remembered of their encounter.

'There's a lot of different versions of the events,' Watt told host Michael Rowland.

'A lot of mysteries and misperceptions about the whole thing. But the main thing is Jack should have got an Academy Award and he's a good mate.'

Rowland asked Karlson's if one of his best-known lines from the video, 'Get your hands off my penis!', referred to something which actually happened or was made up on the spot.

'Probably made up,' Karlson said. 'Can't remember.'

Almost a quarter of a century after that incident - now known as the 'Succulent Chinese Meal' video or 'Democracy Manifest' - Karlson's story has been told in a book called Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr Rent-a-Kill and the Australian Manson Murders, by Mark Dapin

Sunrise also aired a segment on the forthcoming documentary in which presenter Monique Wright read out a text from Reason about the Karlson video.

'I've been doing this job more than three decades now,' Reason wrote.

'Covered Mandela, Bosnia, Ukraine, 9/11, all anyone wants to talk to me about is bloody Mr Democracy Manifest!'

Despite being wrongfully arrested back in 1991, Karlson had a long history being on the wrong side of the law.

He was known to have had associations with some of Australia's most notorious crooks from the '70s to '90s, such as Sydney gangster Neddy Smith and Melbourne standover man Mark 'Chopper' Read.

Over the decades Karlson was locked up in prisons in Brisbane (Boggo Road), Sydney (Parramatta, Long Bay) and Melbourne (Pentridge), and escaped from custody three times.

In the 1970s, he appeared as an extra in classic Australian television dramas Homicide, Division 4 and Matlock Police, and in 2020 he starred in a music video for punk rock band The Chats.
Tributes have poured in for former Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter who was found dead in her home in Melbourne's inner west.

The 45-year-old was found by emergency services at her Maribyrnong home at about 3.45pm on Tuesday and could not be revived.

The glamorous councillor had been elected to the suburban Melbourne council in 2008, before reaching the role of mayor in 2011.

Her political interests included gender equity and social justice.

Victoria Police confirmed it was preparing a report for the coroner but did not share details on her cause of death, which they say isn't being treated as suspicious.

In 2020, Ms Carter made national headlines after hitting social media to announce her upcoming wedding was off after she received information from a third party.

Just days earlier she had announced her upcoming nuptials with Aaron Lipson, an advertising director, on Facebook.

'On Saturday, the most amazing man I've ever chanced upon got down on one knee and proposed,' Ms Carter wrote in the post, attracting hundreds of reactions on the social media website.

'I, of course, rushed to say "yes" and just like that we're engaged to be married. I'm the luckiest gal in all the world and can't wait to be your wife Aaron Lipson - love you to the moon and back.'

High-profile mayor Sarah Carter called off her engagement to boyfriend Aaron Lipson in 2020 after receiving information from a third party

Sarah Carter shared her upcoming nuptials with her boyfriend of eight months in a gushing Facebook post in 2020

But while celebrating the news with her friends and family and basking in the glow of well-wishers, a third party phoned her to reveal some bad news.

'The wedding is off,' she wrote in the second post.

'Thank you to the woman for telling me, best to know now.

'Im obviously terribly embarrassed.'

It is understood Ms Carter had no shortage of male suitors in the years that followed the split and at the time of her death she was linked to Melbourne man Nikhil Roy, who just months ago she celebrated an anniversary with.

In April the pair were seen boarding a plane together to Singapore before Ms Carter jetted off solo for a European adventure.

The trip away had been her first proper break from council duties in 15-years, she stated at the time.

Ms Carter had spoken publicly about her IVF journey and struggles with infertility, and during COVID-19 lockdowns, she spoke out against the Victorian governments pause on IVF treatment.

A third party phoned to tell Ms Carter as she was basking in the glow of well-wishers

Ms Carter with Labor MP Bill Shorten

Tributes continued to overflow online on Wednesday for the beloved Footscray identity, who just days ago returned from a trip to Vanuatu with her employer, charity provider Save the Children.

New South Wales MP Michael McCormack shared a touching story about Ms Carter from that trip.

'Just last Friday night I was due to do a live cross from Port Vila to Sky News back in Australia.

'We had all gone out for dinner at a rather busy (and therefore noisy) restaurant and the time for the interview was looming,' he stated.

'She arranged with the restaurant manager a quiet location, then proceeded to stack stools on top of each other on which she delicately placed food containers and a candle to balance the phone.

Cr Carter (right) recently celebrated an anniversary with her partner, Nikhil Roy (left), in late May

New South Wales MP Michael McCormack with the makeshift studio Sarah Carter (right) put together during a recent trip

'There you go! she declared when it was all set up. How very professional.

'Sarah was pleased with her innovative makeshift studio structure and laughed as she hurried off to get the manager to turn down the music and ever so politely ask some nearby customers to be quiet for just a few moments whilst I beamed in to Sky host Danica De Giorgio.

There is already a push for the Victorian Government to hold a State Funeral for Ms Carter.

Ms Carter was touted by many as a future Labor MP and was well liked and known in political circles in both Melbourne and Canberra.

The first woman to be elected mayor of Maribyrnong three times, she received multiple awards for her contribution to the council since she was first elected in 2008.

She was serving her fourth consecutive term on the council at the time of her death.
Rising political star Sarah Carter is believed to have died from a brain aneurysm just days after returning from an overseas trip.

The 45-year-old was treated by emergency services at her Village Way home in Maribyrnong, west Melbourne, at about 3.45pm on Tuesday and could not be revived.

Daily Mail Australia can reveal that her partner, Melbourne pilot Nikhil Roy, found her body at home after she failed to meet him at the airport as planned.

The couple had planned a European getaway.

'They suspect it's an aneurysm ... we don't know whether it was anything she had been aware of. It's come as a complete shock,' a source said.

Ms Carter, Maribyrnong's former mayor, had just returned from a trip to Vanuatu with her employer, charity provider Save the Children.

It is understood her partner whom she just months ago celebrated an anniversary with, found her unresponsive.

Ms Carter's mother, Gaynor Morris, explained Mr Roy became alarmed when the councillor failed to appear at Melbourne Airport on Tuesday.

'She hadn't made it to the airport to meet him for their holiday together,' she told the Herald Sun on Wednesday.

Maribyrnong councillor Sarah Carter (pictured) was found deceased inside her Melbourne home by her partner on Tuesday

Sarah Carter (right) celebrated an anniversary with her partner, Nikhil Roy (left), in late May

It is believed Sarah Carter (pictured) may have died from a brain aneurysm just days after her return from an overseas trip

'He went and checked on her and he literally found her dead.

'No-one knows anything different unfortunately.'

A heartbroken Ms Morris is now on her way to Melbourne from NSW in the wake of her daughter's unexpected death.

'I think she sets a great example for everybody and there's a lot of people that will miss her. I am very proud,' she said.

The couple had already been on several overseas holidays together which were documented on Ms Carter's Instagram.

On their most recent trip, she thanked her pilot boyfriend for taking her to the Pacific.

'Grateful to have had this human fly to Port Vila (via Fiji) so that we didn't have to spend three weeks apart,' she said.

'Thank you for putting up with this jet lagged, oversubscribed workaholic. I promise vacay Sarah is fun.'

The councillor was first elected to the suburban Melbourne council in 2008, before reaching the role of mayor in 2011.

Her political interests included gender equity and social justice.

Victoria Police confirmed it was preparing a report for the coroner but did not share details on her cause of death, which it said isn't being treated as suspicious.

In 2020, Ms Carter made national headlines after hitting social media to announce her upcoming wedding was off after she received information from a third party.

Just days earlier she had announced her upcoming nuptials with Aaron Lipson, an advertising director, on Facebook.

'On Saturday, the most amazing man I've ever chanced upon got down on one knee and proposed,' Ms Carter wrote in the post, attracting hundreds of reactions on the social media website.

'I, of course, rushed to say 'yes' and just like that we're engaged to be married. I'm the luckiest gal in all the world and can't wait to be your wife Aaron Lipson - love you to the moon and back.'

But while celebrating the news with her friends and family and basking in the glow of well-wishers, a third party phoned her to reveal some bad news.

'The wedding is off,' she wrote in the second post.

'Thank you to the woman for telling me, best to know now.

'I'm obviously terribly embarrassed.'

High-profile former mayor Sarah Carter (left) called off her engagement to boyfriend Aaron Lipson (right) in 2020 after receiving information from a third party

Sarah Carter shared her upcoming nuptials with her boyfriend of eight months in a gushing Facebook post in 2020

It is understood Ms Carter had no shortage of male suitors in the years that followed the split and at the time of her death she was linked to Mr Roy.

In April the pair were seen boarding a plane together to Singapore before Ms Carter jetted off solo for a European adventure.

The trip away had been her first proper break from council duties in 15 years, she stated at the time.

Ms Carter had spoken publicly about her IVF journey and struggles with infertility, and during Covid lockdowns, she spoke out against the Victorian government's pause on IVF treatment.

Tributes continued to flow on Wednesday for the beloved councillor following those by several high-profile politicians, including Bill Shorten, on Tuesday.

Nationals MP and former deputy prime minister Michael McCormack shared a touching story about Ms Carter from that trip.

'Just last Friday night I was due to do a live cross from Port Vila to Sky News back in Australia.

'We had all gone out for dinner at a rather busy (and therefore noisy) restaurant and the time for the interview was looming,' he stated.

'She arranged with the restaurant manager a quiet location, then proceeded to stack stools on top of each other on which she delicately placed food containers and a candle to balance the phone.

''There you go!' she declared when it was all set up. 'How very professional'.

'Sarah was pleased with her innovative 'makeshift studio' structure and laughed as she hurried off to get the manager to turn down the music and ever so politely ask some nearby customers to be quiet for just a few moments whilst I beamed in to Sky host Danica De Giorgio.'

There is already a push for the Victorian Government to hold a state funeral for Ms Carter.

Several high-profile politicians, including Bill Shorten (pictured with Ms Carter), paid tribute to the suburban Melbourne councillor on Tuesday night

New South Wales MP Michael McCormack (left) with the makeshift studio Sarah Carter (right) put together during a recent trip

Ms Carter was touted by many as a future Labor MP and was well liked and known in political circles in both Melbourne and Canberra.

The first woman to be elected mayor of Maribyrnong three times, she received multiple awards for her contribution to the council since she was first elected in 2008.

She was serving her fourth consecutive term on the council at the time of her death.
It was a royal murder which led to more than 450 years of finger-pointing.

Was Lord Darnley, husband to Mary, Queen of Scots, killed by English spies, plotting Scottish lords or... his wife?

Now, a new Daily Mail podcast presented by columnist and royal biographer Robert Hardman and historian Professor Kate Williams has delved into the mystery.

In the early hours of February 10, 1567, a huge explosion rocked the building in Edinburgh were Lord Darnley - who was ill and may have been suffering from syphilis - was staying with his valet, William Taylor.

Intriguingly, the bodies of the two men - who are believed to have been strangled - were found outside beside a length of rope, a dagger, a chair and two dressing gowns.

Mary's and Lord Darnley's son, the future King James I of England (James VI of Scotland), was then just eight months old.

In the first episode of Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things, which was released today, Professor Williams - Mary's biographer - explores the theory that the queen herself could have been involved in her husband's murder.

Did Mary, Queen of Scots murder her husband? Find out by listening to the full episode here

It was a royal murder which led to more than 450 years of finger-pointing. Was Lord Darnley, husband to Mary, Queen of Scots, killed by English spies, plotting Scottish lords or... his wife?

Mary and Lord Darnley were depicted in 2018 film Mary Queen of Scots by Saoirse Ronan and Jack Lowden

They also examine how English spies were on the scene 'suspiciously quickly' and even produced a police-style map of the locations of the bodies.

NEW PODCAST: Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things New episodes every Wednesday DON'T MISS your favourite new history podcast. Each week we'll bring you the biggest and most shocking royal scandals, from who really killed the husband of Mary, Queen of Scots, to the most sex-mad British monarch of all time. Listen wherever you get your podcasts now. Advertisement

And the two experts delve into the nefarious activities of James Stewart - the queen's half-brother - and the Earl of Bothwell, who went on to force Mary to marry him after allegedly raping her following the death of her husband.

'The murder of Lord Darnley is one of history's most notorious unsolved crimes, and it changed the course of history,' Professor Williams says.

And as she and Mr Hardman explain, Mary's life was one marked by upheaval, treachery and trauma.

Following her husband's murder, Mary was forced from her throne and spent the next 20 years under house arrest.

She was then beheaded in 1587 on the orders of England's Queen Elizabeth I after being implicated in a plot to assassinate her.

Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things is made up of ten episodes that are being released weekly from today.

Did Queen Victoria secretly marry her beloved servant John Brown? Was the notorious Russian mystic Grigory Rasputin really the cause of the Russian Revolution?

And how much power did the three key mistresses of the sex-mad King Charles II really wield? All those questions and more are examined in upcoming episodes.

Mary had become Queen of Scotland in December 1542 - when she was just a few days old - following the death of her father, King James V.

In December 1542, Mary - then just a few days old - became Queen of Scotland following the death of her father, King James V.

The new Daily Mail podcast, Queen's Kings and Dastardly Things, airs from today

The podcast is presented by Mail columnist and royal biographer Robert Hardman and historian Professor Kate Williams

Mary, Queen of Scots, with her second husband, Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley

A drawing produced for William Cecil, the chief adviser to Queen Elizabeth I, following the murder of Lord Darnley. It depicts the bodies of Lord Darnley and his valet and shows how they were found next to a length of rope, a dagger, a chair and two dressing gowns

With her country in need of an ally amid incursions by King Henry VIII's forces, she was sent to marry the future King Francis II of France when she was still a teenager.

But he died in 1560, just two years after they tied the knot and less than 12 months after he had become the monarch.

So Mary, now aged 18, returned to Scotland - where her mother had been governing in her place until her death in June 1560 - to reclaim her throne.

She opted to marry the handsome Lord Darnley as part of her ploy to overcome Scottish lords' opposition to her return.

In June 1566, seven months before Lord Darnley's murder, Mary gave birth to their only child, the future King James I of England (James VI of Scotland).

But the fact that she had become a mother to a male heir put her at risk of being deposed.

Professor Williams says: 'So we see Mary being surrounded by these plots of trying to depose her the minute that she has a baby.

'It seems incredible to us, doesn't it? That a grown woman can be deposed for a baby that can't even sit up. But that is the way it is.'

One of the key plotters was her half-brother, James Stewart.

'He is the machinator of the piece. He's the puppet master,' Professor Williams adds.

'He's been controlling things till she got back and he really, really doesn't like being pushed out.'

One 'huge' plot that came when Mary was six months pregnant with her son.

She was having a dinner party with friends and her secretary, David Rizzio, when around 50 lords, including her husband, broke in.

They stabbed Rizzio and took Mary prisoner. But Lord Darnley then had second thoughts and helped his wife return to power.

It left him as the 'big block' on another pot to depose Mary.

He was staying in the Kirk o'Field area of Edinburgh when he was targeted.

James Stewart, Mary's half-brother, was one of the suspects in Lord Darnley's murder, as was the Earl of Bothwell (right)

Mary, Queen of Scots with her son, the future King James I of England (James VI of Scotland)

Barrels of gunpowder that had been placed underneath his sleeping quarters were detonated at 2am on February 10.

But Lord Darnley's body and that of his valet, which were found outside in the nearby orchard, showed no visible signs of injury.

Darnley was dressed only in his nightshirt, suggesting he had fled from his bedchamber.

As the father of the future king of England and Scotland and with a claim to the English throne himself, Lord Darnley was a very powerful man.

Mary was left distraught by her husband's murder, but her initial indecision over what to do led some to suspect that she had killed him.

Eventually, she put Lord Bothwell on trial, but he was found not guilty of the killing.

He went on to concoct a plot to marry Mary and then share power with other lords.

Lord Bothwell persuaded Mary to join him at his castle, where he took her prisoner and sexually assaulted her before forcing the queen into a legal union.

The treacherous Bothwell then reneged on his deal to share power with his fellow lords.

That anger led to the Battle of Carberry Hill, where Mary and Bothwell were defeated by James Stewart and his allies.

After surrendering, Mary - who was then pregnant with Bothwell's child - was taken prisoner again.

Lord Darnley, the husband of Mary, Queen of Scots. He was murdered on February 10, 1567

She suffered a miscarriage while being held in Lochleven Castle, where she was forced to abdicate.

Remarkably, she was able to escape after disguising herself. She then went to England in the hope of getting support from Queen Elizabeth I.

Instead, she was put under house arrest and put on trial privately for the murder of her husband.

'The verdict is maybe did, maybe didn't. So they don't have to execute her or set her free,' Professor Williams says on the first episode of the Mail's new podcast.

Mary would spend the next 20 years being held in various castles around Britain.

After being implicated in what became known as the Babington Plot against Elizabeth, Mary was found guilty of treason and then beheaded.

But as for who killed her husband, that question has always been a contested one.

DON'T MISS Queens, Kings and Dastardly things: Listen to the new podcast to hear Professor Williams' ultimate verdict here.

Robert Hardman is the author of books including Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II and Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story.

Professor Kate Williams is the author of 2018 book Rival Queens: The Betrayal of Mary, Queen of Scots, along with many other works.
He was the strapping Highlander with a face 'hewn from granite', and she was the grieving monarch in the depths of misery.

The relationship between Queen Victoria and her beloved servant John Brown, who was her close companion after the death of her husband Prince Albert, has been the subject of intrigue for well over a century.

In the Mail's new podcast, columnist and royal biographer Robert Hardman and historian Professor Kate Williams examine how Brown's relationship with Victoria blossomed over more than two decades.

They were so intimate that they are rumoured to have slept in adjoining rooms, and the Queen referred to him as 'darling' in letters.

And when the Queen died in 1901, she was buried wearing the wedding ring that once belonged to Brown's mother.

But did she really marry the 6ft, kilt-wearing Scot in a secret ceremony near Balmoral, her beloved estate in Scotland?

That is the key question explored in the second episode of Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things, released today.

Speaking on the podcast, Professor Williams says: 'It's the million dollar question. And it's the question that Victorians were asking.'

Did Queen Victoria really get married in secret? Find out by listening to the full episode here

The relationship between Queen Victoria and her beloved servant John Brown, who was her close companion after the death of her husband Prince Albert, has been the subject of intrigue for well over a century.

John Brown became Queen Victoria's most trusted servant after the death of Prince Albert

Victoria initially became close with Brown after she and Albert took over the lease of Balmoral in 1848.

NEW PODCAST: Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things New episodes every Wednesday DON'T MISS your favourite new history podcast. Each week we'll bring you the biggest and most shocking royal scandals, from who really killed the husband of Mary, Queen of Scots, to the most sex-mad British monarch of all time. Listen wherever you get your podcasts now. Advertisement

Brown, then aged 21, had lived in the area since he was a young boy and was working as a ghillie - the Scottish word for an outdoor servant - when the Queen and her husband arrived.

The 'large, taciturn Highlander with watchful eyes and a face apparently hewn from granite' - as he was described by the monarch's private secretary - was made leader of the Queen's pony by Albert.

His role saw him accompany Victoria as she rode her steed in the countryside surrounding Balmoral.

As Brown helped to improve her riding skills, the pair became closer.

But it was the tragic death of Prince Albert from typhoid in 1861 that deepened their relationship further.

With the bereft monarch spending her time secluded at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight, the Queen's daughter Princess Alice suggested that Brown come down from Scotland with her pony.

Rejuvenated by the latest rides with Brown, the monarch became increasingly dependent on her servant, who came to see himself as her bodyguard.

But the closeness of their relationship made Victoria's children and her other servants increasingly resentful.

However, Victoria refused to listen her family and courtiers and insisted that Brown join her everywhere.

He was by her side in 1872 when a teenager made the latest of several attempts on the Queen's life.

Armed with a pistol, teenager Arthur O'Connor climbed over the fence at Buckingham Palace and lay in wait for the Queen as she returned home from a service at St Paul's Cathedral.

Scurrilous newspaper columns started to refer to the monarch as 'Mrs Brown', a name that became the title of the 1997 film starring Judi Dench as the Queen and Billy Connolly as her beloved servant

Brown was by the side of Queen Victoria for more than 20 years

John Brown (seen centre in a kilt) stands next to Queen Victoria's carriage she prepares to step off it at Windsor to review 52,000 volunteers, 1881. To the left is her son, the future King Edward VII

But O'Connor's plan to put his gun to the Queen's head was thwarted by Brown, who seized him after he dropped his pistol.

The servant's role in saving the Queen further strengthened his place in her affections, but it also deepened the dislike for him and led to yet more rumours about their relationship.

In 1885, it was claimed that the Queen's chaplain, the Reverend Norman Macleod, had made a stunning confession on his deathbed. It has since been pored over by historians.

He claimed that he presided over the marriage of Victoria and Brown at Crathie Kirk in Scotland.

Although the claim has been disputed, some historians, such as biographer A.N. Wilson, believe that the ceremony really did take place.

Scurrilous newspaper columns started to refer to the monarch as 'Mrs Brown', a name that became the title of the 1997 film starring Judi Dench as the Queen and Billy Connolly as her beloved servant.

It was also claimed that Brown was sleeping in a room adjoining the Queen's bedroom.

'I think he is sometimes there, and that's because she sees him as a protector, she sees him as a bodyguard,' Professor Williams says.

But the revelation prompted the foreign secretary, the Earl of Derby, to say the arrangement was 'contrary to etiquette and even decency.'

On the Mail's podcast, Mr Hardman says many of the rumours seemed to have a 'misogynistic angle' to them.

'I mean, male monarchs have always had favourites, mistresses, and no one's thought the lesser of them,' he says.

'Queens can't do that, can they?'

In August 1876, on Prince Albert's birthday, Brown was given a portrait of himself that Victoria had commissioned.

However, seven years later, Brown fell ill with an infection. His death in March 1883 triggered in the Queen another descent into despair.

In a further sign of how much she adored the strapping 6ft gillie, Victoria commissioned Alfred Lord Tennyson - one of Britain's greatest writers to write the inscription on his tombstone.

He was buried at Crathie Kirkyard, the Royal Family's favoured church near Balmoral.

In a letter to former home secretary Viscount Cranbrook, which was only unearthed in 2004, Victoria opined about Brown in the third person.

She wrote: 'Perhaps never in history was there so strong and true an attachment, so warm and loving a friendship between the sovereign and servant...'

The monarch called him 'one of the most remarkable men' and said he had a 'tender, warm, heart' combined with 'honesty, independence and unselfishness'.

John Brown poses in a kilt, with ceremonial pistols on his hip

The grave of Queen Victoria's faithful servant John Brown, at Crathie Kirkyard near Balmoral

Further eulogising came in the form of a life-sized statue of Brown, which Victoria had installed at Balmoral.

The inscription read: 'Friend more than Servant. Loyal. Truthful. Brave. Self less than Duty, even to the Grave.'

Even more evidence of their relationship may have existed in a memoir Victoria wrote about Brown, but courtiers refused to let her publish it and had it destroyed, along with the servant's own diaries.

Ahead of her death in 1901, Victoria insisted that Brown's mother's wedding ring - which he had given to her - be placed on her right hand.

She also wanted a photograph of him in her left hand, hidden by flowers.

Also in her coffin was a lock of Brown's hair and several of his letters to her.

It was the ultimate, final sign of the esteem in which she held the brash Scot.

Listen to episode two of Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things to hear Professor Williams' and Robert Hardman's verdict on Victoria's relationship with Brown.

Robert Hardman is the author of books including Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II and Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story.

Professor Kate Williams is the author of 2018 book Rival Queens: The Betrayal of Mary, Queen of Scots, along with many other works.
From blood-spattered whodunnits to furtive romances or theft on the grandest scale, these are all true stories with three things in common.

They all involve royalty. They all involve great scandal. And they all continue to throw up intriguing, unanswered questions.

And, from today, everyone is very welcome to throw in an opinion of their own, as the Daily Mail launches the new podcast series: Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things.

This is not about the current team, who have more than enough podcasts devoted to their activities already. King Charles III may not feature but King Charles II, for example, certainly does, as do royal ancestors galore and even some fairly recent friends and relations of the House of Windsor.

For this is a series which spans the most enthralling royal mysteries over the last half a millennium, from Tudor times right up to a 21st-century shocker which toppled a foreign throne.

Did Mary Queen of Scots kill her husband? Listen to the first episode to find out:

The podcast is presented by Mail columnist and royal biographer Robert Hardman and historian Professor Kate Williams

Mary, Queen of Scots, with her second husband, Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley

All of them, though, remind us that Shakespeare was bang on the money when he wrote play after play about royal frailties, murder and mayhem. And since our appetite for good thrillers and unsolved puzzles remains insatiable, why not combine the two?

NEW PODCAST: Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things New episodes every Wednesday DON'T MISS your favourite new history podcast. Each week we'll bring you the biggest and most shocking royal scandals, from who really killed the husband of Mary, Queen of Scots, to the most sex-mad British monarch of all time. Listen wherever you get your podcasts now. Advertisement

So the Mail has invited the historian, author and television presenter, Professor Kate Williams, to turn sleuth and revisit some of the most sensational curiosities which, to this day, still elude explanation  with myself as her co-host.

As a journalist and author whose regular beat is the present or recent past, I have greatly enjoyed being guided through the murky depths (this series is rich in murk) of the great royal mysteries that run through history in parallel to all the milestones we are taught at school.

Like many listeners, no doubt, I might have gleaned a misleading impression of some of these stories from the screen. After all, this series follows on from the Mails hit podcast, The Crown: Fact or Fiction?, which was all about separating royal reality from the fantasies of the Netflix production team.

Our series opens with the discovery of a very grand Scottish nobleman and his servant lying dead in their nightshirts near the grounds of Edinburghs Palace of Holyroodhouse on a bleak February night.

Who killed Lord Darnley, husband of Mary, Queen of Scots, and, equally intriguingly, how? The discovery of their bodies had been preceded by an almighty explosion at the house where Darnley was staying, following an unspecified illness.

Yet the bodies showed no signs of blast injuries. And why were English spies crawling over town?

One of the spine-tingling puzzles produced one of our earliest crime scene investigations, now lodged in the National Archives. This detailed map also features a baby in a cot crying out: Judge and avenge my cause, O Lord.

A drawing produced for William Cecil, the chief adviser to Queen Elizabeth I, following the murder of Lord Darnley. It depicts the bodies of Lord Darnley and his valet and shows how they were found next to a length of rope, a dagger, a chair and two dressing gowns

It was a royal murder which led to more than 450 years of finger-pointing. Was Lord Darnley, husband to Mary, Queen of Scots, killed by English spies, plotting Scottish lords or... his wife?

This is the future King James I of England (and James VI of Scotland) who will, in turn, dodge one of historys best-known assassination attempts, the Gunpowder Plot.

Who better to unravel all this than Kate Williams, not least since she is the author of a best-selling biography of Mary, Queen of Scots?

The series enjoys hopping back and forth through the centuries. Another great riddle with a strong Scottish flavour was the friendship between the widowed Queen Victoria and her Highland servant, John Brown.

Millions will know it from the acclaimed 1997 film, Mrs Brown, starring Judi Dench and Billy Connolly. That title reflects the contemporary gossip that this was not a mere friendship but an illicit romance.

Scurrilous newspaper columns started to refer to the monarch as 'Mrs Brown', a name that became the title of the 1997 film starring Judi Dench as the Queen and Billy Connolly as her beloved servant

The relationship between Queen Victoria and her beloved servant John Brown, who was her close companion after the death of her husband Prince Albert, has been the subject of intrigue for well over a century.

Brown was by the side of Queen Victoria for more than 20 years

Victoria was well aware of the gossip, it seems, yet dismissed it out of hand while doing nothing to allay it. Could there really have been substance to the malicious tittle-tattle? Have a listen and find out.

The primary purpose of this podcast is to entertain and we make no claim to any definitive answers which continue to elude the most rigorous and earnest academic investigations.

As well as deploying whatever forensic evidence we may have at our disposal, we also hope to paint a picture of the life and times in which these events occurred.

So, for example, our episode on the grisly death of the royal valet, found in his bed at St Jamess Palace with his throat slit in 1810, is not just the story of a whodunnit which gripped Georgian London.

It tells us a good deal about the extent to which the Royal Family, for all their privileges, had rather less privacy than their modern descendants. Allegations include espionage involving the newly independent United States of America and rumours of a royal gay sex scandal.

Our focus is certainly not confined to these shores, either. The death of the Russian peasant and mystic, Grigori Rasputin, forever remembered as the sex-mad faith healer with a grip on the doomed Romanov royal dynasty, is so familiar that it spawned a chart-topping disco hit by the group Boney M.

The new Daily Mail podcast, Queen's Kings and Dastardly Things, airs from today

But was it more than just a gory murder by jealous (or worried) courtiers? To what extent (if any) did it impact on the tumultuous events which followed?

And, well within our own lifetimes, what on earth led to the massacre of nearly all the Nepalese royal family in 2001?

They were once close friends and allies of our own royal family. I remember covering tours of Nepal by Diana, Princess of Wales and, later, by the Prince of Wales, where everyone was getting along famously. Crown Prince Dipendra even took the Princess on a late-night joy ride round a sealed-off Kathmandu.

Yet in 2001, the Crown Prince went berserk and killed the King and Queen along with most of his family and then himself (even if the Nepalese authorities tried to claim otherwise).

DON'T MISS Queens, Kings and Dastardly things: Listen to the new podcast to hear Professor Williams' ultimate verdict here.

Robert Hardman is the author of books including Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II and Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story.

Professor Kate Williams is the author of 2018 book Rival Queens: The Betrayal of Mary, Queen of Scots, along with many other works.

What really happened and why? The world was starting to figure this out when September 11, 2001 changed the course of modern history and global attention instantly shifted away from this grotesque massacre at the foot of the Himalayas. The aftermath of the regicide would prove equally astonishing.

From the love life of Charles II to one of the great royal frauds, involving Marie-Antoinette, and the great conspiracy about the royal baby smuggled into the palace in a warming pan, this wide-ranging series  produced by Rich Jarman  endeavours to cover mysteries which will be the subject of historical debate long after we ourselves are gone.

Kate and I certainly do not profess to offer all the answers. Rather, we want you to try to make up your own minds and let us know your own theories. So, from today, do please listen and join in the conversation.
In the face of growing public criticism, many airlines are looking for more ways to cut down on their enormous carbon footprint.

But a new paper has 'thrown a spanner in the works' for the aviation industry as it reveals that modern aircraft are actually worse for the environment than older models.

Modern planes fly at higher altitudes, creating longer-lasting contrails than older models, according to researchers from Imperial College London.

Just like natural clouds, these contrails trap excess heat in the atmosphere and may contribute more to climate change than the carbon produced by burning jet fuel.

Dr Edward Gryspeerdt, lead author of the study, says: 'Most people do not appreciate that contrails and jet fuel carbon emissions cause a double-whammy warming of the climate.'

A new study warns that modern planes could be worse for the environment since their higher, more fuel efficient flight paths produce larger contrails

Contrails are twice as bad for the planet as planes' carbon emissions, accounting for around 60% of aviation's total climate impact. Researchers found that modern planes like the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (pictured) create more contrails than older models

Contrails are essentially clouds of ice formed as hot, humid air ejected from engine exhausts hits cold air in the upper atmosphere.

When the conditions are right, soot from the engine can become coated in water vapour and 'seed' the formation of ice crystals which produce larger clouds.

As these clouds linger in the atmosphere, they act like a silver emergency blanket, reflecting infrared energy back to Earth and preventing heat from escaping.

While their exact impact is hard to quantify, some studies estimate that contrails contribute around 60 per cent of the aviation industry's total climate impact - double the impact produced by planes' carbon emissions.

In this study, the researchers used satellite images taken from NASA's GOES-R satellite to track more than 64,000 contrails from aircraft flying over the North Atlantic Ocean.

The researchers analysed more than 64,000 contrails over the North Atlantic. In these images you can see how the scientists filtered out all the contrails seen by the satellite (right) down to those they were able to obtain flight data for (left)

Contrails form when the soot from the engine gets coated in water vapour and then freezes in the atmosphere. In high humidity regions this then leads to crystals which create contrail and these merge with clouds to form 'contrail cirrus' clouds that can last for 18 hours. These clouds prevent heat from escaping and reflect it back to Earth, acting like a huge blanket

This contrail data was then compared to flight tracking information to examine how different types of aircraft created contrails.

The results revealed that newer, more efficient aircraft were producing larger contrails that lingered for longer periods of time.

Dr Gryspeerdt explains: 'Newer aircraft are flying higher and higher in the atmosphere to increase fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

'The unintended consequence of this is that these aircraft flying over the North Atlantic are now creating more, longer-lived, contrails, trapping additional heat in the atmosphere and increasing the climate impact of aviation.'

Since the thinner air in the upper atmosphere produces less drag, modern aircraft tend to fly at 38,000ft or higher in order to burn less fuel.

But as aircraft climb higher, they also encounter colder air which more frequently falls below the 'threshold temperature' at which contrails can form.

Older planes such as the Boeing 707 (pictured) which had its maiden flight in 1957, create fewer contrails since they fly at lower altitudes and produce cooler emissions

So, even though newer planes produce fewer carbon emissions from burning jet fuel, their overall environmental impact might be greater.

While the researchers point out that more efficient aircraft are obviously a good thing, the aviation industry faces a tricky balancing act between carbon emissions and the impact of contrails.

Dr Gryspeerdt says: 'This study throws a spanner in the works for the aviation industry.'

The research also found the private jets of the ultra-wealthy were the biggest producers of contrails.

Private jets tend to fly above 40,000ft where there is less air traffic which puts them into even colder bands of air.

This graph shows the number of contrails detected relative to altitude for different types of plans. Planes older than 25 years old are shown in blue, planes less than 5 years old are shown in orange, and private jets are shown in green

Despite being smaller and burning much less fuel, the researchers found that private jets produce contrails comparable to those of larger commercial aircraft.

These contrails also last longer and so produce an outsized climate impact.

Dr Gryspeerdt says: 'We already know that these aircraft create a huge amount of carbon emissions per passenger, so the super-rich can fly in comfort.

'Our finding adds to concerns about the climate impact caused by private jets as poor countries continue to get battered by extreme weather events.'

Recently, global superstar Taylor Swift has faced increasing scrutiny for her use of private jets.

In 2023 it is estimated that Swift flew 178,000 miles via private jet, the equivalent of seven times around the Earth, and emitted 1,200 tons of CO2 in the process.

Private jets such as the Dassault Falcon 7X (pictured) used by celebs like Taylor Swift produce an outsized climate impact since they create larger and longer lasting contrails

Taylor has faced criticism for her use of private jets (pictured boarding in Kansas City) as it was revealed she produced 1,200 tons of CO2 travelling in 2023

With the disproportionately large impact of private jet contrails, Swift's climate impact is likely even larger than previously estimated.

Yet the researchers note that there is a fairly simple fix to the problem of contrails.

Co-author Dr Marc Stettler says: 'Our study provides the first evidence that emitting fewer soot particles results in contrails that fall out of the sky faster compared to contrails formed on more numerous soot particles from older, dirtier engines.'

Since soot from the incomplete combustion of jet fuel provides the nucleation point for ice crystals, cutting down on soot could mean fewer contrails.

This means that cleaner, more efficient engines could help the airline industry cut down on both carbon emissions and the climate impact of contrails at the same time.
Scotland could face an infestation of ticks - with climate change to blame.

That's according to scientists from the University of Stirling, who have used computer modelling to predict how numbers of the pests will change by 2080.

Under the most optimistic climate change scenario, in which global temperatures rise by 1C, they predict that the prevalence of ticks in Scotland will increase by a quarter.

However, if temperatures rise by just 4C, numbers will almost double, according to the team.

Worryingly, an increase of ticks could also spark a surge in cases of Lyme disease  a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected ticks.

Scotland could face an infestation of ticks - with climate change to blame (stock image)

The team developed a model which predicts tick density by 2080 under varying climate change scenarios  including no change in temperature (top left), and a global temperature rise of 1C (top right), 2C (bottom left), or 4C (bottom right)

Measuring just 1cm long, adult ticks are about the same size as an apple seed.

But despite their diminutive size, ticks can transmit nasty viral and bacterial infections to both animals and humans  including Lyme disease.

'Ticks that may cause Lyme disease are found all over the UK, but high-risk places include grassy and wooded areas in southern and northern England and the Scottish Highlands,' the NHS explains.

In their new study, the researchers set out to understand how numbers of ticks in Scotland could change as temperatures continue to rise.

The team developed a model which predicts tick density by 2080 under varying climate change scenarios  including no change in temperature, and a global temperature rise of 1C, 2C, or 4C.

The results suggest that, if global temperatures rise by 1C, the prevalence of ticks will increase by 26 per cent.

But if global temperatures rise by 4C, the prevalence of ticks will increase by 99 per cent.

In terms of the locations that could be affected, the researchers warn that under the most extreme scenario, only the highest peaks in Scotland will remain tick-free.

Worryingly, an increase of ticks could also spark a surge in cases of Lyme disease  a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected ticks

'The strength of these predicted increases in tick density varied depending on the habitat,' said Professor Rachel Norman, who led the study.

'While woodland habitats were predicted to experience the highest absolute increases, the largest proportional increases were predicted for the slopes of mountains, known as montane habitats.

'Many of these areas that were predicted to be tick-free under recent climatic conditions were predicted to become warm enough to allow sustained tick populations by 2080.'

While this study focused on ticks in Scotland, the researchers say that their model could be applied to other countries, or even other vector species.

'While we developed the approach to predict tick densities over Scotland, it could be easily used for other areas and other vector species, and pathogens could be added to the model, enabling predictions of disease risk,' Professor Norman added.

'Indeed, this methodology could be used more broadly to understand the dynamic response of populations over time to a variety of environmental changes and provides a neat new method in the modelling toolbox for researchers to choose from.'
NASA has captured a wild image of Hurricane Debby from space just hours before the deadly storm barreled into the coast of Florida.

The Category 1 storm made landfall in the state's Big Bend region - a central region of the Panhandle - early Monday morning.

Debby hammered Florida with more than 1.5 feet of rain, 80 mile per hour winds, storm surge and flash flooding that left 207,000 homes without power.

NASA captured the new image using a satellite about 22,000 miles above Earth's surface, revealing the giant swirling storm cloud crossing over Florida.

Debby has claimed five lives, including that of a 13-year-old boy in Levy County after a tree fell on a mobile home southwest of Gainesville, the Associated Press reported.

NASA snapped this satellite image of Hurricane Debbie just four hours before it made landfall in Florida

On Monday at 3:00AM ET, NASA took a photo of Debby churning just off the Florida coast using the Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) on the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-16 (GOES-16).

It shows the hurricane just four hours before it made landfall in Florida.

GOES-16 is operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

NASA helps develop and launch the GOES series of satellites, which observe Earth from about 22,000 miles above the equator.

The hurricane's outer bands of thunderstorms were captured in the image, which brought two isolated tornadoes to the state this week.

A NASA astronaut captured pictures of destructive Hurricane Beryl from space last month.

Matthew Dominick shot the images as the International Space Station traveled more than 200 miles above the Caribbean.

NASA studies hurricanes from space through images as the 'vantage point helps scientists understand how climate change impacts hurricanes and learn how communities can better prepare.'

The agency playing its part in monitoring Debby, which is making its way up the East Coast.

In Sarasota, Florida, roughly 500 people were rescued from flooded homes. Nearly 200 people were rescued from floodwaters in Manatee County.

'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.

Power has been restored to many of the 207,000 homes that experienced outages on Monday. But there are still nearly 36,000 customers without electricity, according to PowerOutage.us.

A flooded home in Hillsborough County, FL, on August 6, 2024

In addition to the 13-year-old boy in Levy County, Hurricane Debby's death toll includes a 19-year-old man in Georgia who had a tree fall onto his home, a 64-year-old truck driver from Mississippi whose vehicle fell into a canal in Hillsborough County, and a 38-year-old woman and 12-year-old boy who died in a car crash in Dixie County.

Debby is no longer hurricane force, but has traveled north as a tropical storm, drenching the East Coast with heavy rain.

Residents of Wimauma, a rural section of Hillsborough County, FL, drive through floodwaters of the Little Manatee river on August 5, 2024.

The storm has already dumped over a foot of rain in South Carolina and Georgia. Both states will remain under a flood warning until 6:45 p.m. ET this evening.

Debbie has moved slightly off the Georgia coast and is now hanging over the Atlantic ocean.

Officials say it could intensify before making a second landfall on the South Carolina coast Thursday. The storm currently has wind speeds of about 45 miles per hour.

'Potentially historic heavy rainfall across southeast Georgia and eastern South Carolina through Friday will likely result in areas of catastrophic flooding,' the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said.

'Heavy rainfall will likely result in flooding impacts from northern North Carolina through portions of Mid-Atlantic States and southern New England through Sunday Morning,' NHC added.
One of the worst data breaches in history has left private details of an estimated 2.9 billion people, including Americans' social security numbers, out on the dark web.

A Florida-based background-check company's database was raided and then posted for sale this past April 8, offered up to any cybercriminals willing to pay $3.5 million.

The company has yet to confirm the breach with its own figures, but if true, the scope of the hack rivals the record-setting 2013 hack of Yahoo! which exposed the data of three billion people worldwide.

The cybercriminal group selling the data, which is believed to be based in Latin America and goes by the ironic moniker 'USDoD,' after the US Department of Defense, shared the file with one cybersecurity expert to confirm its legitimacy.

Most Americans  and even many of their dead relatives  are likely to have private data at risk from the breach, unless they have regularly paid for 'opt-out' services.

A contender for worst data breach in history has left private details of an estimated 2.9 billion people, including Americans' social security numbers, on the dark web. The scope of the hack rivals the record-setting 2013 hack of Yahoo! which exposed the data of three billion people

According to a proposed class action lawsuit filed last Thursday, a Florida-based background-check company Jerico Pictures, doing business under the name National Public Data, failed to 'effectively secure hardware containing protected PII [personal identifiable information]'

This sprawling, stolen database contains address histories, relatives' names and more on hundreds of millions of US citizens, including many who have been dead for decades, new court filings show.

Attorneys for the victim who was first alerted to the breach by his own identity-theft protection service are now pursuing a class action suit against the database firm.

According to that lawsuit filed Thursday, background-check company Jerico Pictures, doing business under the name National Public Data, failed to 'effectively secure hardware containing protected PII [personal identifiable information].'

The suit also accuses the firm of having 'scraped' its billions of files on private individuals from other databases without those individuals' 'consent or knowledge.'

'Defendant's conduct amounts at least to negligence,' the attorneys, led by the Kopelowitz Ostrow Firm, argued in their proposed class action complaint.

A cursory scan of the three-billion individuals files contained in the leak according to the proprietors of the cybersecurity and malware education website VX-Underground  'immediately found' any individual who 'did not use data opt-out services and resided in the United States.'

The files typically contained their first and last name, current address, last three home addresses, their social security number, and a host of data on their families.

'It also allowed us to find their parents, and nearest siblings,' the cybersecurity writer continued. 'We were able to identify someone's parents, deceased relatives, uncles, aunts, and cousins.'

'Some individuals located had been deceased for nearly 2 decades,' they reported.

National Public Data, which is based in Coral Springs an hour north of Miami, Florida, has not yet disclosed when or how the breach of their databases occurred.

The company has not yet responded to requests for comment by DailyMail.com.

Worse, the firm has yet to alert or issue warnings to hundreds of millions of affected individuals inside the US, nor apparently to those abroad who may also be at risk.

Current estimates from the US Census Bureau place the total US population at 336.8 million people  or just 11.2 percent of those caught in this massive data breach.

Most Americans, in other words, including many of their late relatives, are likely to be victims of the hack and thus prospective plaintiffs in the class-action.

But as VX-Underground, who reviewed the entire 277.1 gigabyte file obtained from the hackers, noted: 'The database DOES NOT contain information from individuals who use data opt-out services.'

According to proprietors of the cybersecurity and malware education site VX-Underground - who reviewed the hacker's entire 277.1 gigabyte file - most Americans including many of their late relatives, are likely victims of the hack and thus prospective plaintiffs in the class-action

'Every person who used some sort of data opt-out service was not present,' VX-Underground reported in a post to the social media site X this past June.

Data opt-out services charge up to $499 per year to do the tedious task of demanding data brokers remove your personal data from their lists.

But for those looking for a more cost-effective method, the nonprofit Consumer Reports offers a similar service via its Permission Slip app.

USDoD, who first gained infamy under the name 'NatSec,' has claimed credit for a wave of hacks this year including a raid on CrowdStrike, the cybersecurity firm whose faulty update grounded airlines and caused chaos across the world this July.

This July, USDoD also claimed it had leaked CrowdStrike's 'entire threat actor list.' its 'entire IOC [indicators of compromise] list,' and databases from both '[an] oil company and a pharmacy industry (not from USA),' according to a company report.

USDoD, who is selling the new data leak on the dark web, has claimed credit for a wave of hacks this year - including a raid on CrowdStrike, the cybersecurity firm whose faulty update grounded airlines and caused chaos across the world this July (pictured)

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 this past July

USDoD had originally been portrayed as a Pro-Russian hacking enterprise, in part because of the group's early successes with its '#RaidAgainstTheUS campaign,' which targeted the US Army and major Pentagon's defense contractors.

The hacker group has also probed domestic US agencies, posing as the CEO of a financial company to lift the FBI's 80,000-member InfraGard database  which is designed to securely share national security and cybersecurity intelligence.

InfraGard members include government employees, as well as members of the private sector whose work is deemed critical to maintaining US infrastructure.

A report by cybersecurity journalist Brian Krebs had accused USDoD of making a political statement by releasing sensitive employee data stolen from the Pentagon aerospace contractor Airbus on the 2023 anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

But USDoD denied the claim, asserting that the group's actions were neither political nor acts of terrorism, merely cybercriminal business as usual  with a few caveats.

'I won't attack Russia, China, South and North Korea, Israel, and Iran,' USDoD said following Krebs' reporting. 'The rest, I don't care.'
The perfume of Julius Caesar has been recreated more than 2,000 years after his death.

The Roman dictator, who reigned from 46 through 44BC, was thought to wear a particular fragrance called 'Telinum,' which was made from a mixture of flowers, fruits, oils and even 'gladiator sweat'.

While Egyptians are credited with inventing perfume for ritualistic and medicinal purposes, the Romans refined it.

Scientists combed through historical accounts of Caesar's perfume and scent before trying to recreate it themselves.

The researchers said they referenced written works to confirm what scents were used in Caesars perfume and looked at both ancient writers and works of his close friends.

The team concluded his perfume likely contained a mix of mint, rose, lemon, bergamot, lavender, jasmine, water lily, violet, oud cedarwood and amber.

The final ingredient, or so legend says, was adding the sweat of gladiators.

The men's perspiration was regarded as a high honor as it contained their blood, exfoliated skin, dirt and olive oil that was spread on their bodies before they headed into the arena to fight to the death.

The research team at the The Scent Culture and Tourism Association (SCTA) recreated the sweat using patchoul , a type of flowing plant that is popular among the health conscious.

Patchouli has an earthy, woody, musky scent known for its intoxicatingly rich bouquet, which the team said mimic the smell of gladiators.

The completed fragrances is set for sale in Turkey, France, and Italy starting in October, but the price has not yet been revealed.

'What Caesar smelled like, what was in his perfume, where he got his perfume or who made it for him had always been a matter of great curiosity,' the team shared in a statement.

'According to information provided by both ancient writers and works of his close friends, the contents of his perfumes have been largely determined.'

Caesar appointed himself dictator over the Roman Republic when he was 54 years old and used his power to expand Romes rule by invading Great Britain and installing Cleopatra as queen of Egypt after he defeated Ptolemys army in the Battle of the Nile.

His reign lasted for only two years before he was assassinated in 44 BC by political rivals, including Marcus Junius Brutus.

The SCTA said they referenced written works to confirm what scents were used in Caesars perfume and looked at both ancient writers and works of his close friends.

Pictured is a crystal quartz vessel previously found in the mausoleum during excavations in Carmona, Spain, which was found to contain ingredients of the recreated perfume

Roman author Pliny the Elder described ancient people using gladiators sweat, writing: The scrapings from the bodies of the athletes are looked upon as possessed of certain properties of an emollient, calorific, resolvent, and expletive nature, resulting from the compound of human sweat and oil.

The team said they focused on recreating the Telinum perfume because Caesar attracted the attention of the public with his lifestyle and clothing and his perfumes were followed with great interest by the public.

The researchers reported that ancient Romans preferred simple scents that gave off a musty and pungent smell.

But emperors and other nobles, including priests and military generals, insisted on buying sweeter perfumes from abroad or commissioning their own from local brands to separate themselves from the common people.

Egyptians and Mesopotamians were the first cultures to use perfume for ritualistic and medicinal purposes about 4,000 years ago and was adopted by the Romans in the first century.
Parts of California have been hit by more than 50 earthquakes in just 12 hours.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has detected at least 57 quakes with in 20 miles of the epicenter, Kern County, which unleashed a 5.2-magnitude Tuesday evening.

The swarm has ranged from 2.6 to 4.5 magnitudes, with the largest striking at 12:10am Wednesday.

Seismologists said the state is seeing a 'robust aftershock sequence, with a 4.5-magnitude just 45 seconds after the mainshock.'

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has detected at least 57 quakes with in 20 miles of the epicenter, Kern County, which unleashed a 5.2-magnitude Tuesday evening

The initial earthquake happened at 9:09am PST about 14 miles southwest of Lamont.

However, the USGS noted that aftershocks typically become less frequent with time, 'although they can continue for days, week, months or even years for a very large mainshock.'

The agency also said there is a 21 percent chance the area could see another earthquake with a magnitude greater than 5 within the next week and a two percent chance of a magnitude greater than 6 hitting.

Tuesday's earthquake is currently the strongest to strike California this year, with a 5.2-magnitude detected near Canyondam on May 12, 2023.

The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed Tuesday night that 'earthquake mode' was initiated, prompting all 106 neighborhood fire stations to conduct a surveys of the area by land, sea and air.

'There are currently no initial reports of structural damage or injuries. An update will be provided once LAFD Earthquake Mode is complete,' officials said in a news release.

Residents in Ventura, Simi Valley, Camarillo, Santa Clarita, Encino, Hollywood, Santa Monica, North Hollywood and Woodland Hills reported feeling the shake.

While the strongest quake was felt more than 100 miles away from the epicenter, many of the aftershocks may have gone unnoticed.

An assessment from Michigan Tech University showed that people typically do not feel quakes with a magnitude of 2.5 or less.

Those from 2.5 to 5.4 are often felt but only cause minor damage.

A Los Feliz resident described feeling three different waves one weak, followed by a strong one, then again by a weak one in the span of 45 seconds.

The swarm has ranged from 2.6 to 4.5 magnitudes, with the largest striking at 12:10am ET Wednesday

Bakersfield is located near several major faults, including San Andreas that experts fear will one day unleash a devastating earthquake up to an 8.3-magnitude that has been deemed the 'Big One'

While in South Pasadena, another person felt 20 seconds of shaking, contained in two distinctive waves.

An average of five earthquakes with magnitudes of 5.0 to 6.0 occur per year in California and Nevada, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Bakersfield is located near several major faults, including San Andreas that experts fear will one day unleash a devastating earthquake up to an 8.3-magnitude that has been deemed the 'Big One.'

According to the California Earthquake Authority, the natural disaster would cause destruction in a 100-mile radius of the fault line, which starts near Eureka and ends below Palm Springs, killing at least 1,800 people, crumble millions of homes and cause more than $290 billion in damages.

The next major earthquake that will strike Los Angeles would likely spark 1,600 fires, trap 750 people inside buildings - taking two and a half weeks of search and rescue efforts, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).

According to the Concrete Coalition, as of 2011 about 16 to 17,000 concrete buildings across 23 of California's most earthquake-prone zones could fall when the next big quake hits.

The zones include San Francisco (3,200 homes), Oakland (1,300 homes) and San Jose (363 homes).

California's last 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit San Francisco in 1906 and left 3,000 people dead and $524 million in property damages in 1906 - which amounts to $117 billion in 2024.

A separate 7.9-magnitude quake struck the outskirts of the Los Angeles area in 1857, but fortunately only two people were killed because the area wasn't populated at the time.

Known as the Great Fort Tejon earthquake, it is the second largest every recorded in US history, destroying property as far away as Santa Cruz - more than 220 miles away.

Given that 9.7 million people live in the Los Angeles area as of 2022, if the same magnitude occurred today, it would cause billions of dollars of damages and would likely have a substantial loss of life, according to the Los Angeles Almanac.

The USGS has indicated there is a 60 percent probability that the southernmost area of San Andreas will rupture within the next 30 years exceeding a magnitude of 6.7.
NASA astronauts stranded due to Boeing's faulty Starliner received horrifying news on Wednesday about their return mission to Earth.

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have already been trapped on the International Space Station (ISS) for more than two months, may not come back to Earth until February 2025.

The US space agency revealed a contingency plan that would launch a two-person crew on SpaceX's Crew-9 mission in September, but still wouldn't bring the crew home until months later.

The announcement is another highly embarrassing blow for the embattled Boeing, which is dealing with a spate of issues plaguing its commercial jets.

NASA as touted the notion for weeks that the capsule was safe enough to Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore back from the International Space Station (ISS), despite the craft experiencing leaks and thruster issues

Tuesday marked 60 days the Starliner crew has been in space - instead the intended eight day mission.

Thruster failures and helium leaks on Starliner prompted NASA and Boeing to keep the two astronauts in orbit for longer over fears a trip back on the spacecraft could end in disaster.

During this time, the teams were conducting tests on the issues to determine if capsule could fly.

Last week Boeing said that it 'remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew.'

However, experts told DailyMail.com in June that NASA could be forced to launch a rescue mission, suggesting Elon Musk's SpaceX would be tapped to get it done.

Mike Gruntman, professor of astronautics at the University of Southern California, told DailyMail.com that 'it is more likely that SpaceX would be able to provide an additional launch in the foreseeable future to bring the astronauts back.'

'It is highly unfortunate that Boeing's Starliner, after so much delay with its flight, continues to face problems,' Gruntman continued.

'For decades, Boeing was one of the most admired aerospace and defense companies. It is a true national tragedy.'

Problems with Boeing's commercial jets, including turbulence, mechanical issues and tailstrikes, have cost the company at least $3 billion.

And NASA awarded Boeing a $4.2 billion contract to build Starliner as a taxi for astronauts to the ISS.

A meeting this week of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, which oversees Starliner, ended with some officials disagreeing on a plan to accept Boeing's testing data and use Starliner to bring the astronauts home.

The crew's return mission has been delayed several times since launching in June due to the craft experiencing leaks and thruster issues during its journey to the International Space Station (ISS)

'We didn't poll in a way that led to a conclusion,' Commercial Crew Program chief Steve Stich said.

'We heard from a lot of folks that had concerns, and the decision was not clear,' Ken Bowersox, NASA's space operations chief, added.

While no decision has been made on using Starliner or SpaceX's Crew Dragon, NASA has been buying Boeing more time to do more testing and gather more data to build a better case to trust Starliner.

Sometime next week is when NASA expects to decide, officials said.

Boeing's testing so far has shown that four of Starliner's jets had failed in June because they overheated and automatically turned off, while other thrusters re-fired during tests appeared weaker than normal because of some restriction to their fuel.

Ground tests in late July at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico have helped reveal that the thrusters' overheating causes a Teflon seal to warp, choking propellant tubes for the thrusters and thereby weakening their thrust.

Tuesday marked 60 days the Starliner crew has been in space when the initial plan was just eight days

'That, I would say, upped the level of discomfort, and not having a total understanding of the physics of what's happening,' Stich said, describing why NASA now appears more willing to discuss a Crew Dragon contingency after previously downplaying such a prospect to reporters.

Starliner took off on June 5 at 10:52am ET from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida with a leak that forced a scrub in May.

Teams detected a valve leaking helium and scrubbed the mission.

Engineers suspected that the issue came from a defective rubber seal the size of a shirt button, and said that even if the leak worsens, it could be managed in flight - and set the next launch for June 1.

However, Starliner was again plagued with misfortunes when the capsule was automatically halted with minutes to go before liftoff by a computer-abort system.

The postponement was triggered by computers on the Atlas V rocket's launchpad that coordinate the final moments before liftoff, but the Starliner capsule appeared healthy, officials said.

The issues sparked concern among a NASA contractor who urged the American space agency to 're-double safety checks and re-examine safety protocols to make sure the Starliner is safe before something catastrophic happens.'

Erin Faville, president of ValveTech, raised concerns about the June 6 launch, telling DailyMail.com: 'I warned. I will choose to let it play out.'

Starliner has encountered five failures of its 28 maneuvering thrusters, five leaks of helium gas meant to pressurize those thrusters, and a slow-moving propellant valve that signaled unfixed past issues since launching.

When Starliner arrived in the space station's vicinity to dock on June 6, the five thruster failures prevented a close approach by the spacecraft until Boeing made a fix.

Over the past several weeks, Boeing has conducted thruster test firings on the ground and in space to understand why five thrusters failed ahead of Starliner's arrival at the space station.

All but one came back online. Helium leaks in the capsule's propulsion system also cropped up.
Christopher Biggins suffered a huge blunder on Cooking With The Stars on Tuesday as he burnt his curry spices, filling the studio with clouds of smoke.

The 75-year-old actor took part in the latest episode of the ITV culinary show and he was competing against comedian Katherine Ryan, 41, for Budget Week.

During Budget Week, each competing celebrity had to create a 3 dish using frozen, tinned, and pantry ingredients.

During the episode, Christopher was mentored by chef and former I'm A Celebrity contestant Rosemary Shrager, 73, and he was attempting to rustle up a tasty chickpea, spinach, and potato curry with rice and flatbread.

However, his dish didn't go to plan when he accidentally burnt his curry spices, filling the studio with smoke.

Christopher Biggins suffered a huge blunder on Cooking With The Stars on Tuesday as he burnt his curry spices, filling the studio with clouds of smoke

The 75-year-old actor took part in the latest episode of the ITV culinary show and he was competing against comedian Katherine Ryan, 41, for Budget Week

However, his dish didn't quite go to plan when he accidentally burnt his curry spices, filling the studio with smoke

The show, which is presented by Emma Willis and Tom Allen, returned this week with its fourth series and the latest episode saw Christopher and and Katherine cook first.

Katherine was mentored by professional chef Jack Stein to make a Spanish-style salt cod stew with chickpeas, red pepper salad, and pan con tomate (Spanish tomato bread), while Christopher made a potato curry.

To start, Christopher began by toasting his curry spices in a frying pan and Rosemary advised that toasting them would help 'bring out the flavour'.

However, the spices then began to burn and filled the kitchen with clouds of smoke leaving the other contestants bemused.

Fellow contestant Carol Vorderman, 63, asked: 'What's that smoke?' to which Abbey Clancy responded to her with: 'Something's burning.'

Ryan then called over to Christopher: 'Are you alright Christopher? What's gone wrong?' However, Christopher insisted: 'No, nothing's wrong'.

Rosemary then shouted at Christopher telling him to take it off and that he will need to start again.

Host Tom then approached his bench and asked: 'Biggins I'm very worried that this is smoking, should it be doing that?'

During Budget Week, each competing celebrity had to create a 3 dish using frozen, tinned, and pantry ingredients and he was mentored by chef Rosemary Shrager, 73

To start, Christopher began by toasting his curry spices in a frying pan and Rosemary advised that toasting them would help 'bring out the flavour'

However, the spices then began to burn and filled the kitchen with clouds of smoke leaving the other contestants bemused

However, he dismissed him by claiming it's the 'barbecue effect' he said: 'It's the barbecue effect. I'll ask you to leave now if you don't mind.'

During the chaotic cooking episode, Christopher also struggled to make his flatbread and ended up dropping it.

He proceeded to ask Tom to bang his gong for him so his mentor Rosemary could come and help him for the permitted two minutes.

However, his burnt spices made his dish bitter and he was sent to the Cook Off by the judges.

Elsewhere in the show, retired athlete Linford Christie, 64, was mentored by Poppy O'Toole and had to prepare a pea risotto with a corn beef crumb and garlic flatbread.

Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds, 29, was mentored by Shelina Permalloo and had to cook bejewelled rice topped with filo pastry, sweetcorn fritters, and mango chutney.

The judges voted for Ellie's dish, which meant Linford landed in the Cook Off against Christopher.

Fellow contestant Carol Vorderman, 63, asked: 'What's that smoke?' to which Abbey Clancy (seen) responded to her with: 'Something's burning.'

During the chaotic episode, Christopher also struggled to make his flatbread and his curry ended up tasting bitter due to the burnt spices, meaning he was sent to the cook off by the judges

Christopher and Linford Christie were given the task to make a pineapple upside-down cake, however, Christopher sadly went home as his mentor blindly voted for Linford's dish

The pair were given the task to make a pineapple upside-down cake from scratch and Christopher was accused of 'sabotage' by his fellow celebrities after he encouraged Linford to add more flour to his cake batter.

The judging was blind and it was revealed that Christopher's mentor Rosemary had voted for Linford's dish to win.

Christopher laughed as he realised he was being sent home, and Linford claimed it was a 'relief' to survive to cook another week.

While discussing Christopher Rosemary joked: 'Do you know what? He did his absolute best. But I had to whip him, you know!'

Cooking with the Stars 2024 airs on Tuesdays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX
Katie Williams and Georgia Hull have spoken out about their health ordeal after their nearly $1,000-a-week Sydney apartment became infested with black mould.

Williams, a beach sprinter and ex-Big Brother contestant, and Hull, a well known make-up artist, were renting the two-bedroom Rose Bay unit in Sydney's inner-east when they developed health issues about 18 months ago.

'I was getting rashes on my eyelids, I had really bad asthma, I had a tight chest... I'd wake up with headaches feeling really hungover and groggy, not feeling well - and that was early on,' Williams told The Daily Telegraph.

She described how the mould - which was originally just patches on some of the walls and window crevices in the dated apartment - then spread.

'It got progressively worse. It was growing on our clothes, all over our furniture, paintings,' Williams said.

'Our health got worse and worse too and now I am on a steroid puffer and these tablets that are specifically for lungs,

'Black mould spores, if you disrupt them, you can breathe them in... it can poison you... I've had so many chest infections,' Hull added.

The pair spent 18 months fruitlessly trying to get their landlord to rectify the issue while paying a combined $975-a-week in rent but eventually decided to move out after getting nowhere.

Former Big Brother contestant Katie Williams (left) and make-up artist Georgia Hull (right) spent 18 months trying to get black mould removed from their rental before they moved out

The pair said they both developed a string of illnesses from the spores of the mould (stock image)

They think airflow and dampness caused the issue as the windows in their former apartment were painted shut and they have now chosen a newer, airier Bondi unit, though they are paying more rent.

The couple added they had to go through all their belongings and throw out many items which had been contaminated with the mould so it would not spread to their new house.

They have also taken on a flatmate to help with the increased rent but felt they needed to stay in the Bondi area as that was where most of their work is based.

The pair became engaged in February this year after dating since 2021.

'We've had many personal ups and downs in lockdown and we've helped each other through it all. We've laughed, we cried, we've danced and embraced it all,' Williams previously told Daily Mail Australia.

'She is actually my first girlfriend. Before Georgia I had dated guys! It's so different; it's an emotional bond like no other,' she said.

'I'm really proud of how we've handled our relationship. I was trolled and questioned after Big Brother about my sexuality, and I stand strong in who I am, and who I love.'

In April the couple said their wedding date was not yet decided.

'I have been busy trying to plan our own wedding (no date locked in as of yet) but getting the feelers out there on vendors, location, budgets and logistics,' Hull wrote on her Instagram stories.

Meanwhile, Williams revealed that the 'non traditional' wedding will take place across two days within the next 12 months.

'Two brides. Two rings. Two days. A non traditional WEDDING in potentially less than 12 months,' the Big Brother star captioned alongside a photo of their engagement.

The pair have now relocated to Bondi from Rose Bay as they prepare for their wedding in the next 12 months

The loved up couple also asked their friends and fans for recommendations and tips for their ceremony.

Williams said although she didn't think she'd be marrying a woman a few years ago, she has 'never been happier'.

'I don't identify with labels, I'm just in love with my person and it feels really beautiful that we're getting married and can have this future together,' she said.
Hugh Jackman has shown that he's got a sense of humour about his recent split from Deborra-Lee Furness, his wife of three decades.

It has been revealed that the 55-year-old Hollywood fan favourite approved a cheeky joke about their separation for his latest blockbuster film Deadpool & Wolverine.

At one point in the film, Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool says of Hugh's character, Wolverine: 'He's normally shirtless, but he's let himself go after the divorce.'

According to film industry paper Variety, the naughty sledge drew gasps from the audience at the New York premiere.

But in an interview with the film's director Shawn Levy, the filmmaker re-assured fans that the joke had Hugh and his co-star and pal Ryan Reynolds' approval.

'We never did a joke about or with anyone that we didn't run by them first,' Levy explained.

He also revealed that Ryan's line about the divorce was an ad lib.

'Ryan or I would always run the lines by performers and make sure everyone felt comfortable and that we were never punching down,' he added.

Hugh Jackman has shown that he's got a sense of humour about his recent split from Deborra-Lee Furness. The 55-year-old Hollywood fan favourite approved a cheeky joke about their separation for Deadpool & Wolverine. Pictured: Hugh and Deborra-Lee Furness in 2023

Deadpool & Wolverine also includes another joke about the divorce of former couple Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, who plays Elektra in the film.

'It was all in a playful spirit that everyone felt good about. Those lines wouldn't be in the movie if Hugh and Jen didn't think they were funny,' Levy added.

Last year, Hugh announced he had split from long-time wife Deborra-Lee after 27 years of marriage.

The former couple revealed to fans that they had separated 'to pursue our individual growth'.

'We have been blessed to share almost three decades together in a wonderful, loving marriage. Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth,' the couple said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE.

At one point in the film Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool says to Hugh's character Wolverine: 'He's normally shirtless, but he's let himself go after the divorce.' An interview with the film's director Shawn Levy in Variety has re-assured fans that the joke had Hugh's approval

'Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition.'

The former couple signed the statement as 'Deb and Hugh Jackman,' adding: 'This is the sole statement either of us will make.'

The pair had tied the knot in 1996 after crossing paths on set of Correlli in 1995.

During the course of their marriage, they adopted two children: son Oscar, 23, and daughter Ava, 18.
Amanda Abbington made a rare public appearance with her fiance Jonathan Goodwin and her children Joe and Grace, as the family attended the press night after-party for her play When It Happens To You on Tuesday night in London.

The actress, 50, showed her support for Women's Aid again, as she sported a red top in apparent support of the domestic abuse charity, alongside her fellow cast members.

She teamed her T-shirt with a pair of blue jeans and black trainers, wearing her hair back in a sleek up-do.

Amanda's children, who she shares with her ex-husband Martin Freeman, looked to be bursting with pride as they posed for pictures with their mother.

The actress also looked in high spirits at the Park Theatre, despite the Strictly Come Dancing scandal surrounding her allegations against pro Giovanni Pernice.

Amanda Abbington made a rare public appearance with her fiance Jonathan Goodwin and her children Joe and Grace, as the family attended the press night after-party for her play When It Happens To You on Tuesday night in London

The actress showed her support for Women's Aid again, as she sported a red top in apparent support of the domestic abuse charity

Grace, 16, opted for a black jumper paired with blue baggy jeans, with Amanda's son Joe, 18, going for a similar all-black look complete with a chain to accessorize.

Meanwhile, Amanda's fiance Jonathan, 44, who she became engaged to within days of meeting in 2021, looked suave in a pastel yellow stripy shirt.

Other snaps from the celebratory evening saw Amanda pose with Scottish actor Bill Paterson, as well as her When It Happens To You cast mates Rosie Day, Miles Molan, and Tok Stephen, and writer Tawni O'Dell.

Amanda's new play, which is directed by Jez Bond, is set to open to the public on Wednesday.

The actress leads the cast in the thriller and will take on the role of Tara in the true story about a mother trying to hold her family together after a devastating event changes the course of their lives.

The star's press night outing comes just after the news that police are moving closer to identifying who issued a death threat to the former Strictly Come Dancing star.

MET Police detectives were alerted on Friday afternoon to an email sent to the London theatre where the actress is performing in a new play.

It warned "she should be prepared to die on stage" unless she withdrew her complaint about former pro-partner Giovanni Pernice, which is now the subject of a BBC probe.

She teamed her t-shirt with a pair of blue jeans and black trainers, wearing her hair back in a sleek up-do

The actress also looked in high spirits at the Park Theatre, despite the Strictly Come Dancing scandal surrounding her allegations against pro Giovanni Pernice

Amanda posed with her When It Happens To You cast mates Rosie Day, Miles Molan, and Tok Stephen

The cast all wore red Women's Aid t-shirts to the press night

She was also pictured with Scottish actor Bill Paterson at the event on Tuesday

The theatre alerted cops, and a source close to the investigation said the police are taking the threat very seriously and are working hard towards identifying who sent it. Additionally, Amanda has now been interviewed twice by cops.

The source explained: 'Specialist officers have been looking at the email closely over the last 72 hours, and now believe they are close to identifying where it was sent from.

'They are liaising with another force on this now. This, in turn, they hope will go on to lead them to the person behind the threat.

'Officers have told Amanda they will do all they can to find out who the person is behind the email.

'They are treating it as a very serious and very credible threat and want to unmask the person behind it.'

And the director behind the new show Amanda is starring in told how she has no plans of walking away.

Jez Bond said she will instead bravely carry on appearing, despite receiving the chilling death threat

Artistic Director Jez, told the Mirror: 'Amanda is determined to continue. Obviously she was shocked and upset, but she will not be intimidated into standing down from the show. She's incredibly brave and will not be beaten.'

The star's press night outing comes just after the news that police are moving closer to identifying who issued a death threat to the former Strictly Come Dancing star

MET Police detectives were alerted on Friday afternoon to an email sent to the London theatre where the actress is performing in a new play

The BBC show has been engulfed by drama since Giovanni was suspended after his celebrity partner Amanda accused him of abusive behaviour, saying he was 'cruel and mean.' He denies the claims

The Sherlock actress confessed she feels 'exposed and vulnerable' when on public transport due to the online threats against her from Strictly fans (pictured with Giovanni Pernice on the show)

It also comes after Amanda admitted she she fears taking public transport after making her bullying allegations against Giovanni.

The Sherlock actress confessed she feels 'exposed and vulnerable' when on public transport due to the online threats against her from Strictly fans.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4 Woman's Hour, she explained: 'When I'm on the train and things, I do sometimes feel exposed and vulnerable, I do, because of the nature of the threats I was getting.

'You do feel like you're public enemy number one for saying "I do not feel entirely happy with this".'

The BBC show has been engulfed by drama since Giovanni was suspended after his celebrity partner Amanda accused him of abusive behaviour, saying he was 'cruel and mean.' He denies the claims.
John Pearce and his pregnant wife Jessie Adamo marked a major milestone this week as they prepare to welcome their first child together.

The Purple Wiggle, 33, took to Instagram on Wednesday to give an insight into his wife's pregnancy as he revealed their baby boy kicked for the first time.

However, he shared his irritation in a tongue-in-cheek video as he revealed he had missed the milestone moment and was yet to feel a kick.

In the amusing clip, John was seen standing over Jessie as she relaxed on the sofa while they lip synced to a scene from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

'Make it move,' John was seen mouthing along to the line, given by Dudley Dursley (Harry Melling) in the popular movie.

Leaning down to speak to Jessie's bump, John hilariously demanded: 'Move!' before adding 'he's boring,' in reference to the iconic snake scene from the 2001 film.

'Trying to feel the first kicks but always miss it,' he penned in a caption. 'Apparently he has been moving all day.'

John and Jessie, who tied the knot in 2019, confirmed they were expecting their first child together in a post shared to Instagram in June.

John Pearce and his pregnant wife Jessie Adamo marked a major milestone this week as they prepare to welcome their first child together

The Wiggle, 33, took to Instagram to give an insight into his wife's pregnancy as he revealed their baby boy kicked for the first time, but shared his irritation over missing the moment

They shared a sweet video of the emotional moment they discovered Jessie was pregnant and confirmed they will be welcoming a baby boy.

'It has been a long journey but our beautiful angel has finally been sent to us,' they captioned the post.

'We are so full of joy and cant wait to meet you - baby Adamo Pearce due Dec 2024,' they continued.

The Wiggles gushed over the couple's happy news in a sweet message as they showed their support for Purple Wiggle John, who joined the group in 2021.

'We're all so happy to see The Wiggles' family expanding,' the beloved group's official statement read.

'John and Jessie are a wonderful couple, and we can't wait to welcome their baby into our Wiggles world.

'It will be a full house by Christmas we may need to look at getting an even bigger Red Car!'

John and Jessie started dating in 2012, just two years after his dance-pop group Justice Crew shot to fame following their Australia's Got Talent win.

In an amusing video, John lip synced to a scene from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, telling Jessie to 'make it move' after missing feeling the baby kick

They tied the knot in a private ceremony in October 2019, with their fifth anniversary together coming up at the end of this year.

In April, John told Daily Mail Australia how he has 'always been excited to have children'.

'I think fatherhood has always been in the question. I've always been excited to have children,' he said when asked about potential baby plans.

'That's something that me and my wife Jessie have been working through the past years already.'

He continued: 'She's having a few health issues here and there which we're trying to correct. Once that's all ready to go, we'll have children.

'[Having children is] something we've both always wanted. Fingers crossed things will happen soon. We're definitely working toward something there.'
Denise Richards playfully encouraged Tori Spelling to join OnlyFans, after the star recently said she might sign up for the site to pay for her kids' college tuition.

The Wild Things actress, 53, joined the 90210 star, 51, on a new episode of her misSPELLING podcast, where they discussed the subscription based service, used primarily by sex workers.

Denise urged the cash-strapped star to go topless, but Tori  who previously addressed the 'gaping hole' between her boobs  shared that she would like to get a third boob job before stripping down, as she 'hates' her breasts right now.

'What the f**k are you waiting for?' Denise questioned Tori, after she expressed uncertainty about joining the platform.

'At our age, I'm like if someone wants to see my boobies and see me naked, I'm like f*****g thank you!' Denise  who joined OnlyFans after her daughter Sami, 20, controversially signed up for the racy site at 18  stated.

Denise Richards, 53, playfully urged Tori Spelling, 51, to join OnlyFans on a new episode of her podcast misSPELLING, where they discussed the X-rated platform

Denise urged the cash-strapped star to go topless, but Tori shared that she would like to get a third boob job before stripping down, as she 'hates' her breasts right now

'Do I do topless? Yeah. But I already have it out there, cause I did f*****g Playboy,' she said, referring to her December 2004 nude spread for the magazine, which she did five months after giving birth.

The clip starts out with Tori asking Denise, 'Can we talk about OnlyFans?'

'Yeah, cause I thought you were gonna f*****g join it,' Denise replies.

'I know,' Tori says in an uncertain voice, prompting Denise to ask, 'Why not?'

'I don't know,' the actress replies, as Denise questions what she's waiting for.

'I'm not sure,' Tori replies, turning to someone else in the room, while Denise tells the person, 'She has nothing to lose. We have nothing to lose.'

'At our age, people want to see us? F**k it,' Denise states.

'What I think of it, it's almost having a fan site where you can communicate differently than on Instagram, you know? That kind of thing.'

She then turns to Tori and asks, 'Your t*ts are out there?'

'They're not,' Tori states.

'Oh, well you might as well have them out there,' Denise quips. But Tori replies, 'After the third boob job, because I hate them right now.'

'What the f**k are you waiting for?' Denise questions Tori, after she expresses uncertainty about joining the platform

'At our age, I'm like if someone wants to see my boobies and see me naked, I'm like f*****g thank you!' Denise states

Denise asked, 'Your t*ts are out there?' to which Tori replied, 'They're not.' Denise then quipped, 'Oh, well you might as well have them out there.' But Tori replies, 'After the third boob job, because I hate them right now'

Denise shared: 'Do I do topless? Yeah. But I already have it out there, cause I did f*****g Playboy'; the dynamic duo seen in a promotional image for the podcast

In July, the star fired back after a troll inquired about the 'giant crevice between her t***'.

'I get comments like that for years saying 'Fix that thing between your boobs.' or "what is it, it's like a gaping hole? Tori began.

'It's actually a bone thing, it's called pectus excavatum,' she continued, referring to a chest wall deformity, also referred to as 'funnel chest' per University of Utah.

In this condition, the sternum and several ribs grow inward abnormally, creating a noticeable indentation  almost resembling a bowl in the center of the chest, according to the outlet.

'Anyway, I could get 50 million boob jobs and it wouldn't take this away,' the actress added, as she highlighted her chest area.

Denise is already familiar with the OnlyFans platform. She followed in her daughter's provocative footsteps by launching her own OnlyFans account in 2022, days after her ex-husband Charlie Sheen, 58, publicly blasted her for allowing their child to sign up to the X-rated site.

Sheen was married to Richards from 2002 to 2006, and apart from Sami they also share daughter Lola, 19, together.

Spelling previously said that she subscribed to Richards' account under a false name and wound up spending around $400 in a two-day span.

'I was just kind of fascinated by the whole OnlyFans, and I'm not gonna lie, I was like, "Let me check it out - what does it entail?"' Spelling said. 'So I looked at it, and of course, it shows something, and unless you subscribe, you can't get it.'

'So, of course, I subscribed under a fake name. It's riveting, because they're like, "Hey, we might show you this in this shower." And I just want to see. It's my friend. Like, "Hey, how far is she going?"'

Denise was referring to her December 2004 nude spread for the magazine, which she did five months after giving birth

The star is already familiar with the OnlyFans platform having joined in 2022, shortly after her daughter Sami, 20, started an account

Denise's eldest daughter notably runs her own OnlyFans account - which she officially started at the age of 18

She continued, 'They say, allegedly, if you tip them, they get back to you faster. So, I was like, "Hey, love what I'm seeing. Would love to see some more." I ended up, in the course of two days, spending $400. I couldn't stop. So I kept tipping her - but I didn't want her to know it was me in the DMs.'

Earlier this week Tori said she's considering starting an OnlyFans account to fund college tuitions for her five children.

She spoke on her misSPELLING podcast Wednesday about her potential business plans as she welcomed William Shatner, 93, as a guest on the program.

Spelling, who played Donna Martin on the 90s Fox staple, is mother to five children with ex-husband Dean McDermott, 57: Liam Aaron, 17, Stella Doreen, 16, Hattie Margaret, 12, Finn Davey, 11 and Beau Dean, seven.

As they chat about her co-parenting with McDermott, Shatner noted that her kids will be headed for higher education in a few years.

'So you've got numerous children going to school and university whence they will eventually go to, I'm here to tell you is inordinately, I mean, it's just crazy,' Shatner told Spelling.

Spelling replied, 'I'm gonna have to go on OnlyFans in order to get them into college.'

When asked to clarify what OnlyFans is by Shatner, Spelling replied, 'How do you describe OnlyFans?

Spelling previously said that she subscribed to Richards' account under a false name and wound up spending around $400 in a two-day span

In July, the star fired back after a troll inquired about the 'giant crevice between her t***', sharing she has a condition called pectus excavatum

'So OnlyFans is a site I guess, originally, it was more women in the field - not sex workers - but along those lines, but now actresses do it.'

Shatner asked Spelling for clarification on the content featured on the pay service.

'When you say not sex workers, but along those lines, they're either are or they're aren't,' Shatner said. 'They're either putting out or they're not putting out. They're putting out, they're looking for sexual adventures - yes?'

Spelling noted how OnlyFans has 'transformed' as a platform for content creators in multiple fields.

She said, 'Now there's comedians on and there's chefs on, and it's videos, and people pay, it's like, you could subscribe, but a lot of actresses do it now, and they show things.

'So if you're on in a bikini or something revealing, if people subscribe and they pay more, they can get, like, a shot of you with your breast showing.

When Shatner asked if performers upload clips with 'everything showing,' Spelling said, 'If you want, if you choose.'

Spelling said that content creators can get paid through multiple ways for their work on OnlyFans, such as 'credit card, Zelle, cash app, Venmo, PayPal.'

Spelling explained to Shatner the technical aspects of applying a credit card or comparable payment source to the app.

Spelling's potential move to OnlyFans comes after she's had well-publicized financial issues in recent years, including stints staying at inexpensive hotels and RV parks in Ventura County, California amid cashflow troubles last year.

Earlier this week Tori revealed she's considering starting an OnlyFans account to fund college tuitions for her five children. She and ex Dean McDermott share Liam, 17, Stella, 15, Hattie, 12, Finn, 11, and Beau, seven, together

The money woes stand in contrast to the Hollywood luxury Spelling grew up in, as her late father Aaron Spelling produced hit shows such as Dynasty, Charlie's Angels and The Love Boat, as well as Melrose Place, Charmed and Beverly Hills, 90210.

Aaron Spelling passed away in June of 2006, leaving behind a $500 million empire, with Tori's inheritance coming in at $800,000. (Tori's brother Randy Spelling also received an $800,000 inheritance when Aaron died, Page Six reported last year.)

Earlier this summer, she and her children moved out of a $15,000-a-month Woodland Hills, California rental home, upsetting neighbors by leaving the interior and exterior of the home 'completely trashed,' according to one neighbor.

In April, Tori - who has also said she has issues with hoarding - said on her podcast that she had to have an estate sale in 2016 to settle 'an outstanding bill of $80,000' for 50 storage units she was behind on paying amid a timeframe in which she was 'broke.'

A source told DailyMail.com last year that Spelling was 'having some money issues,' and looking toward returning to the reality TV genre as a result.
US superstar Matt Damon has revealed his very special connection to one Australian city - and it's not Sydney or Melbourne.

The Hollywood actor, 53, appeared on Channel Seven's Sunrise on Wednesday with Casey Affleck, 48, to promote their upcoming movie The Instigators.

Matt, who spends a lot of time Down Under with his family, revealed in the interview the love he has for Queensland and in particular iconic Brisbane agricultural festival The Ekka.

'You're almost half Australian these days. You seem to be at the Ekka every other year,' reporter Steve Hargrave said.

'I've been a few years in a row to the Ekka,' Matt admitted. 'I don't know if I'm gonna make it this year, though, because I have to come back to America.'

Matt then explained the festival to Casey Affleck, who was unaware of the annual event.

'It's awesome. I gotta bring him [Affleck] to the Ekka,' Matt said.

The action star added that he's usually the one to jump on the 'terrifying' rides while his family prefer to watch from the sidelines.

US superstar Matt Damon has revealed his very special connection to one Australian city

'My kids love it because they force me to go on all those terrifying rides and, you know, their mum refuses to go,' Matt said.

'So I draw the short straw. They like watching me get whipped around on those things.'

The Ekka, formally known as the Royal Queensland Show is Queensland's annual agricultural show and it is held at the Brisbane Showgrounds.

Matt, who spends a lot of time Down Under with his family, revealed the love he has for Queensland and in particular the iconic Brisbane agricultural festival The Ekka

The admission comes after Matt recently chatted about his daughters and what it means being a girl dad.

The movie star spoke with Andy Cohen during an appearance on his SiriusXM show called Radio Andy.

Matt is dad to daughters Isabella, 18, Gia, 15, and Stella, 13, with wife Luciana, 48 - as well as daughter Alexia, 25, from a previous relationship.

When asked what his best advice is on being girl dad, Matt told Andy: 'Oh man I don't know. I wouldn't deign to give anybody advice other than I just try to listen and be helpful. I mean ultimately it's about building self-esteem.'

Andy asked him on how he reacts if they bring a boy home that they are dating, asking: 'What kind of dad are you when they bring a boy home and they say, "I'm dating this..."'

Matt said: 'Oh I'm fine. I'm cool with that. You know what I mean?'

The actor hails from Boston and Andy asked him if he turns 'Boston' on his daughter's love interests.

'You don't turn all Boston, like, "What are you doing with my daughter?"'

'No, no, no. That's like an old trope that I think people, you know like to play up. You know dads like to joke about it amongst each other I think sometimes but no,' Matt said.
Mark Wilson has put his splendid Queensland pad under the hammer.

The Dancing with the Stars judge, 61, and his wife Annemarie have listed their five-bedroom, two-bathroom Gold Coast cottage for sale without a price guide.

Located in Gilston, 14kms from the CBD, the couple are seeking expressions of interests for the newly renovated property.

Real estate estimates put the value of homes of similar size in the neighbourhood at an impressive $1,188,000.

Wilson, who has been a judge on DWTS for 10 seasons, is selling up after buying the gorgeous spread in 2019 for $560,000, reported The Gold Coast Bulletin on Wednesday.

Perched on a high point in the leafy suburb, the home offers amazing views of the surrounding hinterland.

According to the real estate summary, the area is often 'visited' by kangaroos and wallabies.

Features include a classic wraparound 'Queenslander' verandah and a new kitchen.

Dancing with the Stars judge Mark Wilson, 61, and his wife Annemarie have put their splendid Queensland pad under the hammer

Real estate estimates put the value of homes of similar size in the neighbourhood, which is 14kms from the Gold Coast CBD at an impressive $1,188,000. Pictured: Mark Wilson

Other recent improvements include a paint job, fresh timber flooring and new carpet.

Highlights include a thoughtful open plan dining and living area with breakfast island and stone benchtops.

There's also a large master bedroom with walk in wardrobe and en suite.

The sale also comes with a pre-approved plan for a granny flat on the property's lower level.

Meanwhile, Dancing with the Stars is rumoured to be set for a shake-up.

Speaking to Woman's Day last week, an insider has hinted current judge Craig Revel Horwood, 59, will be getting the chop to make way for a 2025 return of popular host Todd McKenney, also 59.

Perched on a high point in the leafy suburb the home offers amazing views of the surrounding hinterland. Pictured: A newly renovated kitchen

'The chatter behind the scenes is that Todd will be back and Craig will be given the boot in 2025,' they told the publication.

The insider claimed Todd has better on-screen chemistry with host Sonia Kruger, 58. and fans are growing tired of Craig's persona.

'He has better banter with Sonia and fans have drowned in too many of Craig's 'darlings',' the insider claimed.

Highlights include a thoughtful open plan dining and living area (pictured)

Todd stepped away from the show in 2024 to star in a theatre production of The Odd Couple.

The publication alleged last month that the reshuffle came at the 'perfect time' as it allowed incoming co-host Dr Chris Brown, 45, to build up on-air chemistry with Sonia.

It was also claimed that judge Helen Richey, 79, is driving the push to give Craig the boot, with the pair frequently butting heads on screen, although fellow judges Sharna Burgess, 39, and Wilson, are also keen to show Craig the door.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Channel Seven for comment.
Jay Kanter, a legendary film producer and Hollywood agent, has died at 97.

Kanter, who was the former agent of Hollywood icons like Marlon Brando and Marilyn Monroe, passed away on Tuesday at his home in Beverly Hills, as per TMZ.

His son, Adam Kanter, told the publication that his father died 'peacefully from natural causes' and was 'surrounded by his family.'

Kanter also represented other A-listers, including Warren Beatty, Grace Kelly, Ronald Reagan and Gene Kelly.

He eventually transitioned to film producing, and worked on legendary films like Blade Runner, Thelma and Louise, Alien, and films in the Star Wars and Police Academy franchises.

Jay Kanter, a legendary film producer and Hollywood agent, has died at 97; he is pictured in 2004 outside of Marlon Brando's house, following the actor's death

Kanter, who was the former agent of Hollywood icons like Brando and Marilyn Monroe, died Tuesday at his home in Beverly Hills, as per TMZ; seen escorting Marilyn to the premiere of East of Eden in NY in 1955

After World War II, Kanter landed a position at a prominent Hollywood agency, where he was mentored by the late legendary movie mogul Lew Wasserman.

At just 22, Jay convinced Godfather star Brando to become his client.

The professional relationship endured for the entirety of Brandos career, and turned into a lifelong friendship.

He was also friends with Mel Brooks, and together they worked on Spaceballs, Silent Movie, Young Frankenstein, High Anxiety and Life Stinks.

Following MCA's acquisition of Universal Pictures, Kanter relocated his family to London to oversee production for the studio's European division.

When the European operations were subsequently closed, he joined forces with Elliott Kastner and Alan Ladd Jr. (Laddie) to form a production company.

Later, Ladd returned to Los Angeles to take on an executive position at 20th Century Fox, inviting Kanter to join him.

This marked the beginning of a partnership that spanned leadership roles at 20th Century Fox, The Ladd Company, and MGM/UA.

Kanter was born on December 12, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, to parents Muriel and Harry Kanter.

His son, Adam Kanter, told the publication that his father died 'peacefully from natural causes' and was 'surrounded by his family'; seen with his son Adam in 2012

Kanter also represented other A-listers, including Warren Beatty, Grace Kelly, Ronald Reagan and Gene Kelly; pictured with Warren in 2012

Pictured dining with Grace at the Stork Club in New York in September 1954

He eventually transitioned to film producing, and worked on legendary films like Blade Runner, Thelma and Louise, Alien, and films in the Star Wars and Police Academy franchises; seen with Arthur Loew Jr. in 1978

Private services will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024; Kanter pictured in 2004

He married three times. His first marriage to actress Roberta Haynes lasted less than a year.

He subsequently married Judy Balaban, daughter of former Paramount Pictures President and honorary Chairman Barney Balaban.

Kanter's third and longest marriage was to Kit Bennett Kanter, who passed away in 2014 after 49 years of union.

During his lifetime, he also lost a daughter, Victoria Kanter Colombetti.

He is survived by his children Dustin (and Debra) Bernard, Tom Bernard, Cydney Bernard, Amy Kanter (and Bob Thiele), Adam (and Brooke) Kanter and Michael (and Erica) Kanter, as well as his grandchildren.

Private services will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Motion Picture Television Fund or the Jules Stein Eye Institute.
Lauren Phillips revealed she has been hitting the margaritas while her jet tycoon fiance Paul O'Brien is abroad.

The Nova radio host, 41, told her co-stars Jase Hawkins and Clint Stanaway live on their Melbourne breakfast show on Tuesday that she's living it up while her partner is away.

Joking that she is 'allergic to having a bad time', the media personality said she cheekily indulged in a few cocktails on a weekday night.

'I had a few margaritas on a Monday,' she told her co-host and listeners.

Jase, 42, was left stunned by the admission, saying: 'Oh, Jesus. The wheels are off with you.'

'Paul's away and I am living. You know why? Because I'm allergic to having a bad time,' Lauren confessed.

Newsreader Clint, 41, then asked her about her choice of margarita: 'Were they OG, were they spicy, or were they Tommy's?'

To which Lauren responded: 'I did a classic on the rocks,' giving an insight into her boozy night at home.

Lauren Phillips, 41, (left) revealed on Tuesday that she has been hitting the margaritas while her jet tycoon fiance Paul O'Brien (right) is away

Joking that she is 'allergic to having a bad time', the media personality said she cheekily indulged in a few cocktails on a weekday night while speaking on her Nova breakfast show

It comes after Lauren recently celebrated the joint July 21 birthday of her fiance Paul O'Brien and her AFL star friend Tom Hawkins in Melbourne last week.

The birthday boys were all smiles in sweet photos shared to Instagram, which captured the pair celebrating over lunch with Lauren and Tom's wife Emma.

One image showed the Geelong Cats star having the time of his life with Lauren's partner Paul and their celebrity friends over drinks at a fancy Melbourne restaurant.

Another adorable photo showed Lauren's A-list gal pals - including AFL WAG Emma Hawkins - posing up a storm outside a local bar, as they shared laughter and drinks.

Lauren captioned the gallery with some heartfelt words, 'A Sunday well spent. Happy Birthday Paul and Tom,' and added a love heart emoji.

Lauren announced her engagement to Paul in July last year after the aviation boss proposed during a romantic trip to Mykonos.

Paul runs high-end aviation charter group AVMIN, with celebrity clients including Matt Damon and Chris Hemsworth.
Bindi Irwin's husband Chandler Powell recently shocked fans by sharing a very dirty picture to social media.

The former wakeboarder, 27, took to Instagram with a close-up image of his hand next to a crocodile's massive webbed foot which was almost triple his size.

With dirt and grime completely caking his body, the wildlife warrior looked filthy posing next to the huge beast, with followers stunned by the size difference.

'What does this foot belong to?! I cannot with the size!' one person commented.

Someone else wrote, 'I thought this was a Game of Thrones promo,' referring to the huge creatures in the HBO hit fantasy series.

'Holy crap that's a humongous paw!' a third said, while another added: 'This is craziness! It's huge.'

One user commented, 'Gosh that's massive,' while others agreed, writing: 'That's huge!'

Chandler explained to his followers that he and other team members at Australia Zoo are heading out on an Australia Zoo Crocodile Research Trip.

Bindi Irwin's (right) husband Chandler Powell, 27, (left) shocked fans last Wednesday when he shared a very dirty picture online

'We'll be spending the next month on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve tracking crocodiles to learn more about them,' the father-of-one wrote.

'It is such an honour to be part of this incredible, important work.'

Mother-in-law Terri Irwin also commented on the post, saying: 'I hope we get to meet this awesome crocodile again!'

Chandler is expected to make the trip with Terri, 60, and his wife Bindi, 26, and their three-old daughter Grace Warrior.

The former wakeboarder, 27, took to Instagram with a close-up image of his hand next to a crocodile's massive webbed foot which was almost triple his size

His brother-in-law Robert, 20, has already committed to the adventure.

The I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here host and Gold Logie nominee announced last month he will be participating in the annual trip.

He said he will be returning from Cape York following the adventure to attend the Logie Award ceremony in Sydney on August 18.
Kanye West's former chief of staff Milo Yiannopoulos has made a slew of bombshell allegations aimed at the rapper and his dentist, Thomas P. Connelly, in a legal affidavit.

Yiannopoulos, 39, who quit working for West, 47, in May after two years, claimed that West is addicted to nitrous oxide or 'laughing gas' and alleged Connelly was 'aware' of West's 'psychological vulnerabilities' and believed he 'sought to exploit them' by supplying the gas.

Further shock claims in the document are that Connelly continued 'to supply the gas after the emergence of distressing symptoms that led to widespread comment and concern' and charged 'more than $50,000 a month' to do so.

(West was seen in a Reddit post three months ago with a mask on with the caption, 'Ye on nitrous.')

It was alleged West's 'growing dependency on the gas' - also known as 'hippy crack' which can induce feelings of euphoria - concerned Yeezy staff members and that the rapper 'seemed to be in and out of the inhaler mask on a near-constant basis' and his communications 'were becoming incomprehensible and contradictory.'

West has notably seen his career implode amid anti-Semitic comments - beginning with a vile post in 2022 that he was going 'death con 3 on Jewish people' - which got him promptly dropped by his agency CAA, production company MRC, Adidas, Gap, and Balenciaga.

Kanye West 's former chief of staff Milo Yiannopoulos has made a slew of bombshell allegations aimed at the rapper and his dentist, Thomas P. Connelly, in a legal affidavit. The rapper pictured in 2024

Yiannopoulos, 39, who quit working for West, 47, in May after two years, claimed that West is addicted to nitrous oxide or 'laughing gas' and alleged Connelly was 'aware' of West's 'psychological vulnerabilities' and believed he 'sought to exploit them' by supplying the gas- Pictured in 2017 in NYC

The symptoms of West's 'widely-reported bipolar diagnosis and the side effects of prolonged nitrous gas abuse are strikingly similar' claims the affidavit, with symptoms including 'erratic behavior, mood swings, paranoia and violence.'

Yiannopoulos claims a Yeezy employee told him that they had witnessed West 'self-administering the nitrous gas provided by Connelly.'

Yiannopoulos - who detailed his job duties as 'solving mysteries and fixing problems where others have failed.' said the affidavit was in tandem with a complaint he filed with the California Dental Board accusing Connelly of 'reckless, unethical, dishonest, explorative and, upon information and belief, illegal conduct. '

What is Nitrous Oxide and is it illegal? Nitrous Oxide, has been nicknamed 'laughing gas' due to the euphoric and relaxed feeling people who inhale it can sometimes feel. The substance - also known as 'hippy crack' - is normally bought in pressured canisters, commonly transferred to a container, e.g. a balloon, from which the gas is inhaled. Although possession of laughing gas is not illegal, English law prohibits its sale to under-18s if there is a chance they will inhale it. Nitrous Oxide canisters and cigarette butts litter a roadside in Camden Town on February 11 The effects of nitrous oxide vary depending on how much has been inhaled but they include:  Feelings of euphoria, relaxation and calmness.  Dizziness, difficulty in thinking straight and fits of giggles/laughter.  Sound distortions or even hallucinations.  In some people, a headache can be an unwanted immediate effect. Risks include:  Unconsciousness or death from lack of oxygen. This occurs when the available oxygen for breathing is effectively pushed out by the nitrous oxide. Advertisement

He says he was 'motivated by urgent concern' for West's health and safety' in both his own capacity of himself and 'on behalf of several individuals close to him.'

Yiannopoulos said he is 'not in a position to authorize the release' of West's medical records and wouldn't 'presume to do so without his consent,' and did not explicitly name West in an immediate series of allegations he raised against Connelly in the affidavit.

Yiannopoulos said the affidavit 'pertains to actions of Connelly' that includes 'the unlawful supply of enormous quantities of nitrous gas to a wealthy, famous patient for explicitly recreational use' as well as 'the physical transportation of four surgical size canisters by Connelly himself into the patients home on just one afternoon.'

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that he went through the 'additional and unusual step of providing' a 'sworn "jurat" affidavit, which he said comes under a penalty of perjury'; and that all materials have been forwarded to the Attorney General's office and the FBI.

Yiannopoulos said that Connelly charged 'more than $50,000 per month for the service' and continued 'to supply the gas along after the emergence of distressing symptoms that led to widespread comment and concern.'

Connelly provided 'instruction to the patient in the operation of nitrous gas canisters' he left 'at the patients home' and 'knowingly encouraged their use in the absence of a qualified anesthesia or medical professional by a person with history of mental illness and addiction,' Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit.

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that Connelly abandoned 'said patient' to the 'self-destructive consequences of dependence, showing indifference or worse to the prospect of permanent damage and brain or body.'

Yiannopoulos claims that based on what he knows and believes, Connelly was 'fraudulent' in taking 'millions of dollars ... from a patient he knew to be in a confused, dependent, weakened and addicted state.'

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that Connelly moved 'into the patients apartment building, at the patients own expense, so as to 'better keep an eye on him.'

West was seen in a Reddit post three months ago with a mask on with the caption, 'Ye on nitrous'

Connelly shared an image of West on his Instagram earlier this week

Dr. Thomas P. Connelly pictured in an Instagram post last month

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that a number of Yeezy employees had expressed concerns about seeing 'four large surgical tanks of nitrous oxide into Bianca Censori's apartment' and Connelly said that the cannisters were empty and had always been - pictured February 2024

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that he had been promoted in January and saw that West's organization was $200 million in the red while taking in no income, and 'placed the business into emergency measures' by terminating more than 130 people in his first month.

Yiannopoulos said that in February and March, he 'devised and deployed strict spending protocols, travel polices, limits on expenses and other financial controls' to keep the books balanced better, and located millions of dollars in wasted monies due to reasons ranging from fraud to greed to double billing to redundancies.

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that it was in this capacity he crossed paths with Connelly, who was introduced to him 'as the dentist who assisted Ye in the design and installation' of his 'much admired titanium prosthodontics' which Dailymail.com reported cost $850,000 this past January.

Connelly is a "celebrity dentist" who both has famous clients and is also seeking notoriety for himself in his dental practice, which involves the implementation of diamonds on some occasions, Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit. He noted that Connelly was profiled in a January 2024 piece for the New York Times.

Connelly had presented 'himself as a well-connected, successful entrepreneur' and had 'supplied West with advisors ... who demanded gigantic sums for their services' while proposing 'widespread and disruptive changes' to West's business structure, Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit.

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that it became clear to him that West's 'growing dependence of nitrous gas, and not Connelly's business expertise' was what Connelly was relying on 'to seal the deal.'

West's business and personal dealings were discussed by his former chief of staff in the affidavit

West 'seemed to be in an out of the inhaler mask on a near-constant basis' and his communications 'were becoming incomprehensible and contradictory,' Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit

West has notably seen his career implode amid anti-Semitic comments - beginning with a vile post in 2022 that he was going 'death con 3 on Jewish people' - which got him promptly dropped by his agency CAA, production company MRC, Adidas, Gap, and Balenciaga

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that this past April, Yeezy employees 'were worrying about' West's dependence on the gas and speaking openly about it,' with West himself talking 'about it non-stop in meetings.'

In addition to West, he has also worked for Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and 'a series of wealthy individuals in Florida,' backing up what he claims is 'a respectable track record exposing fraud, theft and ill intent of every kind.'

Yiannopoulos said in the affidavit that a number of Yeezy employees had expressed concerns about seeing 'four large surgical tanks of nitrous oxide into Bianca Censori's apartment' and Connelly said that the cannisters were empty and had always been.

Yiannopoulos says he felt federal law enforcement should be dispatched to deal with the aforementioned issues, and that Connelly's license should be suspended.

A rep for Connelly told TMZ on Wednesday that claims made by Yiannopoulos were 'not only factually incorrect but also intentionally misleading.'

Yiannopoulos was 'making up these claims for attention,' Connelly's rep told the outlet, and was 'attempting to maliciously damage' Connelly while doing so.

Connelly's rep told TMZ that the dentist follows legal and ethical standards and will continue doing so.

In October 2023, the New York Times published an expose revealing West 'drew a swastika on a shoe sketch' during a meeting with Adidas execs in 2013, and openly praised 'master marketer' Adolf Hitler for his 'command of propaganda.'

He has two Diamond certified songs  2007's Stronger and 2011's N***as in Paris featuring Jay-Z  and all 10 of his albums have been at least certified Gold

Last March, the Atlanta-born hip-hop star claimed watching Jonah Hill in his 2012 action comedy 21 Jump Street made him 'like Jewish people again' in a bizarre Instagram post.

'No one should take anger against one or two individuals and transform that into hatred towards millions of innocent people,' Kanye - who boasts 42.8M social media followers - wrote. 'No Christian can be labeled anti-Semite knowing Jesus is Jew. Thank you Jonah Hill I love you.'

West released his first-ever rap EP Get Well Soon... in December 2002 through Jay-Z now-defunct record label Roc-A-Fella Records. His released his critically-acclaimed debut album, College Dropout, less than two years later in February 2004.

Since bursting onto the rap scene over 20 years ago, West has sold an incredible 160million records worldwide and is a 24-time Grammy Award winner. He has two Diamond certified songs  2007's Stronger and 2011's N***** in Paris featuring Jay-Z  and all 10 of his albums have been at least certified Gold.

His 10th studio album, Vultures 1, went straight to No.1 when it was released in February 2024. It was done in collaboration with Ty Dolla Sign as their hip hop duo $.

West previously teased that a follow-up album, Vultures 2, is in the works. The chatter around West's alleged musical retirement comes amid a slew of legal woes for the rapper - mostly relating to his crumbling Yeezy empire.

Last month a new bombshell lawsuit accused West and his wife Bianca Censori, 29, of sending porn to staff members - including minors - at Yeezy.

A federal lawsuit filed in California claimed that Censori sent an employee a link to 'hardcore' sexual content after her husband announced the launch of his adult film business, Yeezy Porn, in late April.

His 10th studio album, Vultures 1, was released on February 10

It alleged that the videos were accessible to underage staffers, but did not name her as a defendant in the suit - simply using the story to illustrate the work environment at the YZYVSN streaming service app.

Censori has since denied the claims via Yiannopoulos, who told DailyMail.com he had permission to speak on her behalf.

'I've been authorized by Bianca to stress that any allegation that she showed or caused to be shown any pornographic material to minors is offensive, disgusting, abhorrent and categorically and wholly false,' the statement says.
Chanel Ayan flipped out when her close friend Lesa Milan told her she ruined her trust after revealing Sara Al Madani's private voice message to the group on Tuesday's episode of The Real Housewives of Dubai on Bravo.

The 46-year-old model left the ladies dinner during their second night in Bali and went to her room where she broke down crying.

Chanel's explosive fight with Lesa, 35, happened at the start of the episode titled Note to Be Trusted after Lesa said she was upset with Chanel for violating her trust by playing Sara a private voice message that was left on Lesa's phone.

Chanel had brought up the message because originally she thought Sara was talking badly about Caroline Brooks. But when the message was played for the group it revealed that Sara was actually talking about Taleen Marie, 36.

Sara said in the message that she wasn't the biggest fan of Taleen. Chanel first flipped out Caroline Stanbury, 48, for telling the group about the message.

Chanel Ayan flipped out when her close friend Lesa Milan told her she ruined her trust after revealing Sara Al Madani's private voice message to the group on Tuesday's episode of The Real Housewives of Dubai on Bravo

Chanel's explosive fight with Lesa, 35, happened at the start of the episode titled Note to Be Trusted after Lesa said she was upset with Chanel for violating her trust by playing Sara a private voice message that was left on Lesa's phone

'No, Caroline we are f***ing done,' Chanel said. 'Look at this (holding up her middle finger) and shove it up your a**hole.'

'Holy f***,' Caroline Brooks, 38, said.

'It's all good, let's move on,' Taleen said. 'Sara is not the biggest fan of me'

'Honestly, I'm going to take a break because if I sit here, I'm going to f***ing snap,' Chanel whispered to Lesa.

A producer asked Chanel where she was going and she said she needed a break. Chanel stormed off to her room and could be heard crying by the cameras outside.

'I'm so hurt by it,' Chanel said. 'Actually I'm very loyal.'

Lesa went to go check on her but quickly left crying herself

'She shouted f*** you,' Lesa said in a confessional.

'Honestly, I'm going to take a break because if I sit here, I'm going to f***ing snap,' Chanel whispered to Lesa

'She shouted f*** you,' Lesa said in a confessional

Lesa said Chanel also yelled at her saying 'How dare you embarrass me like that in front of all the girls?'

Lesa said she had never been 'so disrespected in her entire life.' Lesa called her husband crying. Lesa then told Brooks how Chanel lashed out at her. Brooks told her to just move on and come out with the rest of the ladies to party at a dance club.

'Ayan is missing out,' Lesa said in the car on the way to the club with the other ladies.

Once in the club, Taleen went on the hunt to try to find a man for the single woman. She brought over a guy that they dubbed looked like Fabio to chat with Brooks. He said he worked at a nearby bar and the ladies started bar hopping with him. At one club after doing shots, Stanbury shocked everyone by getting on the stage and dancing.

The next morning, Chanel called her husband and told him how she felt Lesa interfered with her relationship with Stanbury.

'I feel so betrayed by her,' Chanel said of Stanbury.

'I feel played and I feel like a fool,' Chanel said in a confessional.

At breakfast Chanel said she didn't go out because she was upset. She told Lesa that they needed to talk but Lesa just started crying.

Lesa said she had never been 'so disrespected in her entire life.' Lesa called her husband crying. Lesa then told Brooks how Chanel lashed out at her. Brooks told her to just move on and come out with the rest of the ladies to party at a dance club

'I was really in a bad place,' Chanel apologized to Lesa.

'But we don't speak like that to each other,' Lesa said.

'I know I didn't sleep,' Chanel said. 'Honestly it did hurt me when you said that you don't trust me.'

'Maybe I overreacted and I'm sorry,' Lesa said.

Chanel and Lesa hugged and made up. Sara told them that the day was all about positivity and that they were going to go to a waterfall to release their traumas. Stanbury, who was hungover, had them stop her car on the way so she could get out and vomit.

They arrived at the waterfall and guide said he was to help them cleanse themselves. The ladies were given sari's to put on. The guide had them each put an offering in front of a statute.

'I don't even walk in my house barefoot,' Taleen said.

The guide told them to pray to the statues, but Lesa wasn't into it.

'I'm all about culture and I mean no disrespect, but I don't know about all of this,' Lesa said in a confessional. 'It's giving very non-Christian.'

'I was really in a bad place,' Chanel apologized to Lesa

Stanbury, who was hungover, had them stop her car on the way so she could get out and vomit.

They arrived at the waterfall and guide said he was to help them cleanse themselves. The ladies were given sari's to put on. The guide had them each put an offering in front of a statute

The ladies went under a giant waterfall to scream but Stanbury opted to check her phone.

'If I was home right now I'd be having my coffee in bed, a vitamin drip, and having a massage in the afternoon and I would be all good,' Stanbury said to the camera. 'Like who on earth wants to go to a waterfall and scream with a bunch of crazy women who hate you.'

The other women went under the waterfall and screamed to help them get trauma out of their system.

'Stanbury to me is always miserable,' Lesa said to the camera. 'I'm not even focused or worried about that one.'

When they got back to the house, Lesa thanked Sara for the day. She told the ladies that she reached out to Miss Indonesia's designer who provided them with traditional handmade dresses for the night. Lesa handed out the dresses to the women.

Stanbury was not happy with her dress.

'These are couture dresses. These were not made for us,' Stanbury said.

'This was taken off of some poor girl that works in a restaurant down the road and probably has to be returned in an hour,' she added.

'I don't want to disrespect the culture but these colors they're not me,' Taleen said.

'We should have had an option,' Brooks said. 'I would have never chosen mustard yellow! I don't wear mustard yellow!'

'I'm trying to make it work but it's not working,' Stanbury said.

'I don't want to disrespect the culture but these colors they're not me,' Taleen said.

'We should have had an option,' Brooks said. 'I would have never chosen mustard yellow! I don't wear mustard yellow!'

The Real Housewives of Dubai will return next week on Bravo.
Ray Martin has issued a powerful tribute to Jane Hansen - a former A Current Affair reporter who was famously among the first to lift the lid on the 'despicable blokey culture' in the commercial TV world.

Hansen, aged in her 50s, died on Tuesday evening following a near two-year battle against an aggressive brain tumour, with TV icon Martin telling Daily Mail Australia he was 'shocked and saddened' by her passing.

The pair worked together in the heyday of the Nine Network mainstay.

'Jane Hansen gave journalism a good name,' he said. 'She was formidable, energetic and ethical.

'She fought relentlessly for the underdog and the disadvantaged - especially women and Indigenous Australians.

'Jane was smart, funny and a reliable friend. We'll miss her pursuit of excellence, as she tried to keep the bastards honest.'

Hansen a pioneering female television journalist and war correspondent who reported from some of the most dangerous places on the planet  passed away on the Gold Coast about 11.40pm last night, surrounded by loved ones.

Despite fighting an aggressive glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, Hansen's family said she never lost her revered tenacity and determination to see the good in the worst of situations.

'To all that knew and loved my sister. Jane passed away peacefully at approximately 11.40pm 6 August,' the statement said.

Pioneering television reporter, newspaper journalist and globe-trotting war correspondent Jane Hansen is seen above during her commercial television heyday

With fellow reporter Fiona McKenzie, Hansen was the author of 'Boned'. Although it was officially a work of fiction, industry insiders were well aware that many of the incidents detailed within the novel were all too real

'Jane put up an amazing fight right till the end and never once complained, and never lost her sense of humour this whole time.'

The family thanked loved ones for their 'extraordinary level of support, love and compassion' over the course of her 18 month cancer battle.

In 2008, Hansen published the book Boned with fellow reporter Fiona McKenzie. Although it was officially a work of fiction, industry insiders were well aware that many of the incidents within the novel were all too real.

The title of the book was a reference to the Today show host Jessica Rowe's infamous sacking by Channel Nine. A senior producer at the network once alleged in an affidavit that Eddie McGuire had used that colloquialism to describe her axing.

The protagonist of the novel faced the same real-world challenges of institutional sexism experienced by women in the Australian TV world, including by Hansen.

'We felt that someone needed to take a stand,' Hansen wrote in a confessional 2017 piece where she admitted being one of the book's anonymous authors, almost a decade after it went to print.

'I found defending my position as a seasoned journalist in commercial television exhausting and depressing. We'd ... been beaten down the boys' club. We'd been bullied. But we were never victims.'

She said her years as a globe-trotting war correspondent did little too prepare her for the fierce battle for equality she confronted within the male-dominated Nine Network.

'I've slept on the floor in the bombed-out 'sniper side' at the Holiday Inn, Sarajevo, in the middle of the Bosnian war, bribed murderous Iraqi officials to extend my visa in Baghdad,' she recalled.

'I've eyeballed a Taliban mullah in an interview and made him storm out. I've had a people smuggler deliver a death threat under my hotel room in Jakarta, and slept with an iron in the bed for protection after upsetting a coup leader in Fiji.'

'(But) when we wrote Boned, we had both left our jobs. We had young babies and we were freelancing. We'd also been beaten down by the boys' club.

'The bad behaviour that we knew so well also seemed at an all-time high. Women were being sacked while on maternity leave, doyens slandered as difficult, and Jessica Rowe boned.

'We hoped it would challenge the serious culture problem that is still alive today.

Hansen on assignment, above, arranging her visa extension during a trip to Iraq

'At the basis of the culture is an appalling sense of entitlement. Like kids in a lolly shop, it is an industry where powerful men hold the strings to the hopes and dreams of so many vulnerable, beautiful, educated and talented young women.

'Any woman knew that a trip to HR was a one-way trip out the exit door with a trail of slurs dripping in your wake. We even heard the very words spill out of Don Burke's mouth this week: emotionally fragile, disgruntled, witch hunt. He played the victim.

Hansen was in her late 50s

'In 2008, we chose to stay anonymous for the same reason. We knew if our identities were revealed we would be lined up and shot down with the well-worn artillery used on every woman who piped up: scorned, couldn't cut it, no talent bimbo, difficult b**ch, stupid c**t and so on.

'Despite a body of work that would suggest otherwise, we too felt we may not work again if we 'fessed up.

'We are sad Boned did not change the world back then. It was a long shot. But the rest of the world has finally caught up and we can proudly now say we did our bit.'

Hansen's most recent role was a journalist with News Corp's Sunday Telegraph newspaper, where she wrote extensively about the anti-vaccination and anti-fluoride movements in New South Wales.

She was most proud of her pro-vaccination campaigns, which resulted in welfare payments being withheld from parents who did not fully immunise their children. Anti-vaxxer parents were also barred from accessing childcare centres and preschools.

Hansen filed what would be her last report in February.
Jimmy Nicholson has posted a sweet tribute to his wife Holly Kingston to celebrate their one year wedding anniversary.

The Bachelor star, 34, took to Instagram on Tuesday to share a montage of the lovebirds' first 12 months of wedded bliss.

Beginning with footage of the pair's intimate wedding at Jimmy's parents' home in Sydney's Palm Beach, the loved-up reel also showed the pair on honeymoon in Rome.

The clip closed with footage of Holly showing her positive pregnancy test and baby's sonogram image.

'Happy one year wedding anniversary to my beautiful wife,' Jimmy captioned the adorable clip.

'Thank you for being my biggest cheerleader, my mentor and my best friend. I could never have imagined this incredible life we live and I cannot wait to share it with our little [baby chick emoji].'

Jimmy ended the caption with a subtle dig: 'Ps - please close the cupboard doors.'

The throwback post was met with a flurry of well-wishes and congratulations, with Holly also taking time to chime in.

The Bachelor's Jimmy Nicholson has shared a sweet montage to celebrate his one year anniversary with Holly Kingston

'1. I miss an aperol 2. No promises re cupboard doors 3. Our kid is one lucky little thing to have you as their dad,' she wrote.

Jimmy kept the sweet exchange going with: '1. I'll have one for you. 2. It's in the vows so you're kind of screwed 3. [double love heart emojis].'

Others chimed in with one writing: 'You two are literally my favourite couple ever. Now I'm eagerly waiting for your travel updates'

Another follower added: 'Absolutely meant to be!! I remember this season and just knew Hols would be with you for life. Happy Anniversary love birds!'

Beginning with footage of the pair's intimate wedding at Jimmy's parents' home in Sydney 's Palm Beach, the loved-up highlight reel also showed the pair on honeymoon in Rome

It's been a big year for Jimmy and Holly who announced they're expecting their first child back in June.

The lovebirds announced the news alongside a gallery of beachside photos of the beaming couple.

'Coming 2024,' they wrote alongside a hatching chick emoji.

It wasn't long before the news was inundated with well wishers.

The Bachelor's Osher Gunsberg appeared to take credit for the couple's pregnancy, with the former host writing, 'You're welcome' alongside a red love heart emoji.

'Congrats guys enjoy your last few months of freedom before you enter hell! Just kidding, parenting is great,' added Matty 'J' Johnson.

'It's out!! Woohoooo. So excited for you both. Love you! Congratulations x,' wrote Married At First Sight's Jules Robinson.

Jimmy and Holly fell in love on the 2021 season of The Bachelor Australia.

The pair moved into an apartment together in North Bondi in September that year, shortly after The Bachelor finale aired on TV.
Anna Heinrich has revealed a wild new career move on Wednesday as she partners up with Huggies to launch a pop-up toddler skin spa in Sydney.

Speaking with Daily Mail Australia about her new venture, the former Bachelor star, 37, said the brand has taken over the exclusive Bump Day Spa in Double Bay.

She said her youngest daughter Ruby, who she welcomed to the world with husband Tim Robards in March, 'loves massages' and was treated to a foot rub at the pop-up.

'I went there last week and it was a really nice experience. We had a 30 minute massage. I got head, neck and shoulders, my favourite, and feet,' Anna said.

'Ruby got her hands and her feet [massaged]. Ruby surprisingly loves massages. It really calms her down.'

'She's actually really calm when she gets a foot massage. It's good for their circulation and they actually say it's really good for babies and toddlers.'

'I think for everyone it's good... it gets things moving. It's time to relax.'

Anna went on to say that it was a perfect opportunity for her to get in some quality time with Ruby, as she feels she is usually too busy to get one-on-one bonding time.

Anna Heinrich has revealed a wild new career move on Wednesday as she has partnered up with Huggies to launch a pop-up toddler skin spa in Sydney. Pictured with daughter Ruby

'I am just so busy now, it's so hard to find any time for yourself. And even just spending quality time with the little one,' Anna, who is a mother of two, said.

'I feel like she wakes up, I'm working, then I put her back down. It's hard to find those nice special moments together.'

While the idea of a toddler day spa may seem bizarre to some, Anna said she's only received positive reception from her friends so far.

Speaking with Daily Mail Australia about her new venture, the former Bachelor star said the brand has taken over the exclusive Bump Day Spa in Double Bay

She said her youngest daughter Ruby, who she welcomed to the world with husband Tim Robards in March, 'loves massages' and was treated to a foot rub at the pop-up

'Everyone gets pretty excited because it's complementary and also it's a time where you can go out with your child,' she said.

'It's a cute experience you wouldn't be able to do any other time. It's a very unique experience.'

'I think people are more excited than hesitant or anything like that... My mindset is don't worry about the things you can't control. '

'Go in and have a fantastic day. You don't have to pay for anything. Just go and enjoy the experience.'

'I went there last week and it was a really nice experience. We had a 30 minute massage. I got head, neck and shoulders, my favourite, and feet,' Anna said

Anna added: 'Ruby got her hands and her feet [massaged]. Ruby surprisingly loves massages. It really calms her down'

Anna explained the temporary spa, which will run from the 20th to the 24th of August, is strictly for toddlers aged 12 months to 36 months.

Mums get to sit next to their bubs while receiving a complementary head, neck, shoulder and foot massage while their children can also get free foot and hand rubs.

The complementary pop-up spa is hosted by Huggies to celebrate the launch of their new Rapid-Dry Technology in their Huggies Ultra Dry Nappy Pants.

Anna went on to say that it was a perfect opportunity for her to get in some quality time with Ruby, as she feels she is usually too busy to get one-on-one bonding time

Huggies assures that all products used at the skin spa are safe to be used on toddler and baby skin, with services provided by trained therapists of the Bump Day Spa.

Anna and her partner Tim, 41, met on the first season of The Bachelor Australia and are considered one of the most successful couples to come out of the series.

They tied the knot in June 2018 during an intimate ceremony at the Masseria Potenti hotel in Puglia in south Italy.

The lovebirds welcomed their first child, daughter Elle, on November 12, 2020, and their second child, daughter Ruby, in the first week of March, 2024.
Katie Price has revealed she'd turn to escorting in order to fix her financial woes.

The glamour model, 46, is currently in Turkey recovering from her sixth facelift while a warrant is out for her arrest after she failed to appear at her 760,000 bankruptcy court hearing.

Yet the mother-of-five has come up with a plan to dig herself out of her financial hole, and revealed the plan in her autobiography, This Is Me.

Katie penned: 'Bankruptcy doesn't hold the same fear now I can see a way out of it. If material stuff is taken from me, I know I can earn it back.

'I will get into escorting if I need to, not to sleep with the men, just for company. To be on their arm. I think I'd be good at that.'

Katie Price has revealed she'd turn to escorting in order to fix her financial woes. A warrant is currently out for her arrest after she failed to appear at her 760,000 bankruptcy hearing

Katie concluded: 'My mum would tell me I need to work on my table manners first though. And by the way, that is a joke.'

The TV personality's home - dubbed the Mucky Mansion - has gone on sale for an asking price of 1.5million after Katie was evicted from the property in May, in the midst of her bankruptcy woes.

She had purchased the pad in Horsham, West Sussex for 2million in 2014, but had many problems with the home over the years, including break-ins, structural issues, and reports of 'seeing ghosts'.

The star's home was repossessed after she was declared bankrupt for a second time in March over an unpaid tax bill, and she has since moved into a 5,000 per month new Tudor-style property.

Katie was absent at a scheduled 760,000 bankruptcy court hearing on Tuesday, having flown overseas to Turkey to undergo facial surgery.

An arrest warrant has since been issued, with Katie admitting she's 'doing the best she can' to rectify her financial issues after receiving 'very clear warnings' that she needed to attend court.

In a statement posted on Instagram on Tuesday, Katie wrote: 'Whilst I'm currently aware of the severity of my current personal financial situation with my ongoing bankruptcy, I am today shocked that whilst away working for a documentary on corrective surgeries that I should find myself yet again headline news.

'The media in my opinion once again are trying to cause continued humiliation to myself and family.'

Katie wrote in her autobiography: 'I will get into escorting if I need to, not to sleep with the men, just for company. To be on their arm. I think I'd be good at that'

She continued: 'There are far greater and more pressing issues going on around the world that are more important and I'm sure most people are bored reading stories that are constantly misrepresented.

'I am continuing to cooperate with the relevant people on matters to the best of my ability which will be addressed after my return from work.

'Despite consistent stories trying to humiliate me on my personal misfortunes, I am neither embarrassed or ashamed. I own my situation and I am trying my best to work my out out of it and put matters right.'

Katie added that she is currently going through 'challenging times' and is doing 'the best I can' for the sake of her family.

She wrote: 'I have to continue in my work in order to satisfy these bankruptcy orders which is all I am trying to do right now. I am however not running from matters and will continue to take matters with great seriousness.

'I am doing the best I can to rectify things during extremely challenging times. Once again I would like to highlight there are far greater and more news worthy stories.

'I will continue to work on my mental health disorders for the sake of myself and my family and do the best I can.'

In May, Katie claimed on her own podcast that she has been signed off from appearing in court for her mental health, after receiving backlash for missing her last bankruptcy hearing to go on holiday to Cyprus.

Katie confirmed for the first time on Thursday that she's finally moving out of her Mucky Mansion after she was served an eviction notice to leave the property

She had been due to give evidence about her finances at the High Court in May, but at the start of the hearing, lawyers said that she had told them at the last minute she couldn't attend due to health issues. A judge described this excuse as 'scanty'.

Katie then jetted off on holiday to Ayia Napa with her MAFS star boyfriend JJ Slater , facing public backlash after being spotted sunbathing together by the pool.

Taking to her podcast, The Katie Price Show , Katie hit back and claimed she had been signed off from court because she was 'mentally not strong enough'.

She said: 'Everyone is like "oh she's missed bankruptcy and she's gone on holiday!" No, let me address it.

'The court knew that I wasn't going to my bankruptcy, because mentally - my consultant at The Priory - I've been signed off for any kind of activity for court.

'I'm mentally not strong enough at the moment to stand in court, be cross examined in front of the media and public.'

She went on: 'I am taking my bankruptcy so serious, like I do everything else. It's a very serious situation I'm in and it does look like "oh she's just gone on holiday".

'No, my head at the moment needs a break. I had four days in my diary where I was able to go away.

'When I say I'm not mentally able and stable to stand in court at the moment because I have a lot of things going on behind the scenes I'm dealing with.

'Hence, I haven't been on TikTok for months, since December, I'm only doing what my body and brain will let me do at the moment.'

She continued: 'I am taking the bankruptcy seriously. It's not like I've jetted off on a bloody five star holiday. I'm not in a 760 a night hotel.

'It's not my fault that my friend came to this hotel a week before me and told them that I was coming and to look after me. So when I came here they upgraded me for nothing, this holiday was actually a very cheap holiday.'

Katie then added that she wouldn't be going to her next hearing and that she was getting a signed letter to allow her not to appear.

She said: 'There is another court hearing and I won't be going to that either. I want everyone to know I've had a letter from my trustees.

'Before I went away on holiday I had an hours conversation with my trustees who handle both of my bankruptcies and explained fully my situation. Since then I've had a letter from them and a letter from court.

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Katie shared a clip showing a huge pile of things in her living room that she was set to sell

'[My consultant] has now given a list of things I need to do to discharge me and suspend me from this which has to be signed off by a lawyer.

'I'm back today, I have the appointments with my consultant, my therapist and everyone around me who will be signing me off legally.'

It comes as Katie appeared to share a snap of herself on a plane munching a sandwich just hours before her looming court hearing on July 30.

Posting on Instagram , the debt-riddled beauty model shared a picture of her snack, adding: 'Crisp sandwich is the best.'

It is believed Katie - whose 2million 'mucky mansion' was recently repossessed - was joined on the jaunt by pal Lou Anderson.

As entrepreneur and influencer Lou shared the news she was heading to Turkey for a tummy tuck next week, Price seemed to confirm she would be joining her as she replied: 'Yes girl turkey here we go'

Lou then replied with a series of clapping emojis and wrote: 'Come on my girl'.

According to The Sun a court official disclosed earlier this week that the case against Price was still listed for 10.30am.

She could now be taken into custody having failed to appear at court.

As entrepreneur and influencer Lou shared the news she was heading to Turkey for a tummy tuck next week, Price seemed to confirm she would be joining her as she replied: 'Yes girl turkey here we go.'

Insolvency and Companies Court Judge Catherine Burton said Price had received 'very clear warnings' that she must attend the hearing on Tuesday.

The former model was due to face questions about her finances in the specialist bankruptcy court in London from barristers representing the trustee of her two bankruptcies.

A judge at a previous hearing said Price risked arrest if she did not attend further court dates, adding evidence must be provided if she could not appear.

Issuing the arrest warrant, Judge Burton said Price had 'failed to attend today's hearing' and had provided no explanation for her absence.

She said: 'It is in my judgment necessary that the court issue a warrant for Ms Price's arrest. She has no real excuse in failing to attend today's hearing.'

Katie was absent at a scheduled 760,000 bankruptcy court hearing on Tuesday, having flown overseas to Turkey to undergo facial surgery

She continued: 'The reason for her absence today is irrelevant.'

Judge Burton said that an arrest warrant was not issued 'lightly' but that Price had offered only 'piecemeal co-operation' and failed to provide the 'most basic information' in relation to her bankruptcies.

Price was declared bankrupt for a second time in March over an unpaid tax bill of 761,994.05 after first being declared bankrupt in 2019.

She was then served an eviction notice that ordered her to leave her Mucky Mansion by the end of May and has since moved into a 5,000 per month new Tudor-style property.

However, last week she claimed 'everything is sorted' with her second bankruptcy after being evicted from her Sussex bolthole.

Insisting she now knows 'how to deal with issues,' the model promised to 'never hit rock bottom again' in an interview with Channel 5 News on Monday.

Speaking on the programme, she said: 'I'm doing really, really good. I've learned a lot about myself, a lot about mental health and obviously being diagnosed with the severe ADHD, learnt a lot about that, which I wish I knew years ago.

'It becomes noise in your head, and then you just can't cope with it, you think there's no light at the end of the tunnel and then that caused depression, then a breakdown, suicidal, ended up at the Priory.'
Ashley James has shared an empowering post of image she originally didn't want to share online because she wasn't happy with how she looked at the time.

Despite looking gorgeous and happy in the photos, Ashley, 37, revealed that she pulled them apart over disliking certain parts of her body in the snaps.

Ashley candidly detailed how she took issue with her 'giant' boobs, side profile or 'how pale' she looked in the photos she posted to Instagram on Tuesday.

The This Morning guest star shared several snaps from holidays with her partner Tommy Andrews and their two children, Ada and Alfie.

Alongside a sweet picture of herself and Ada, 17 months, standing on an exotic beach, she wrote: 'My boob looked awkward hanging out.'

Ashley James has shared an empowering post of image she originally didn't want to share online because she wasn't happy with how she looked at the time

Despite looking gorgeous and happy in the photos, Ashley, 37, revealed that she pulled them apart over disliking certain parts of her body in the snaps

Ashley shared one picture from before she was pregnant with her two children and said she 'now can't believe she didn't like her body then'

Ashley shared one picture from before she was pregnant with her two children and said she 'now can't believe she didn't like her body then'.

'Sharing a lengthy caption about why she didn't post them at the time, she said: 'I almost didn't share this because I really never want to focus on 'flaws' when I have spent so much time over the last decade trying to change my mindset to speak kindly about myself. To not speak unkindly about my body. I also don't want anyone else to ever compare their own bodies to mine.

'But I think it's really important to highlight that often we are so unkind to ourselves, and we pick ourselves apart in a way that we just wouldn't do to anyone else. And it makes me sad looking through some of these photos because I'm in all these amazing places making amazing memories and I let my brain zoom in on my body or my face instead of just the memories and experiences.

'And often we look back and wonder why we didn't like the photo. We think we look amazing.

'I've often wondered what the psychology is behind this because I have it really bad - i will always hate any photo of myself until about 2 weeks later and then I think how nice it is. What is with that?

'Although I have to say I really struggling seeing photos of myself during the breastfeeding days. Not the cute ones of me feeding my babies, but just the size of my chest on me. I am sure it's not secret how much I struggle with that from years and years of shame and comments that started when I was just 14.

'But do you know what? I am so glad I stepped into the photos and I didn't press delete even when I didn't like what I see. Because already those moments are wonderful memories of my children's childhood. Of my adulthood. Of life and love and adventure.

'And often our memories get hazy and our kids grow up so quickly and in the end all we have is photos and memories.

Ashley shared a lengthy caption about why she didn't post them at the time

In this snap Ashley said she didn't like her bum chin, eyes, or 'giant boobs'

Ashley said she didn't like this lovely sun-soaked snap because of badly done botox

Ashley lifted up her little boy Alfie in this sweet snap but said she didn't like how her arms look

'So be kind to yourself no matter what stage of life you are in. And remember to give yourself compassion for not liking what you see because we have grown up in a world that has taught us to zoom in and see flaws so that people can profit from our insecurities. And always always get in the photos.

Ashley, who uses her platform to advocate body positivity, previously showed off her 'stretched' stomach as she spoke about the importance of body confidence in an Instagram clip earlier this year.

She spoke about how her her figure has changed since welcoming her two children over the past few years and how she tries to 'reframe' negative thoughts.

Ashley lifted up her jumper to show off her toned stomach and admitted she showers herself with positive praise rather than negative self-talk.

She wrote: 'My tummy got so stretched when it had babies you can see how stretched my skin is. It'll probably always look a bit like this.

'I always like to reframe negative thoughts and think, wow, belly - you made Alf and Ada.

'How amazing are you! Look at how you've grown and changed.'

Ashley often shares parenting updates and uploaded a selfie of herself breastfeeding Ada to her Instagram stories.

She wrote: 'Slept on my chest all night. She never wants night-time cuddles. Little cold and teething.'

This sweet family snap showed Ashley and her partner Tommy on the beach with Alfie

Ashley said she didn't like her side profile or the way her mouth looked

Ashley announced in a sweet Instagram post last March that she had given birth to a baby girl, Ada.

The reality star welcomed Alfie in January 2021, just a year after she and tech professional Tommy began dating.

Made In Chelsea's Ashley spent six years single before settling down with Tommy in December 2019, after first meeting ten years earlier.

Six months later, the couple discovered they were having their first baby after Tommy moved into Ashley's London home amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The Hughesy, Ed & Erin breakfast show has sensationally come to an end amid spiralling ratings and 'commitment issues'.

The program hosted by Dave Hughes, Ed Kavalee and Erin Molan managed a mere 3.6 market share in the last ratings survey.

2Day FM announced the news on Wednesday evening, informing listeners that they've opted to pull the plug on the show, and replace it with loveable night shift larrikins Jimmy Smith and Nath Roye, who currently host The Jimmy and Nath Show.

'Weve loved our time together on 2DayFM Breakfast, however, due to some of our families living in different cities we are unable to commit to 2025, so with a heavy heart we are moving aside so 2DayFM can find the team to take them forward in Breakfast,' Hughsey, Ed and Erin said in a statement.

'We are so grateful to Sydney for their support, and to double the number of listeners in three years is something we are immensely proud of, and we will miss each and every one of them.'

Southern Cross Austereo went on to thank the radio hosts for their 'passion and commitment' following the announcement.

'We are incredibly thankful to Hughesy, Ed and Erin for their unwavering dedication in making the 2DayFM Breakfast show a fun way to wake up Sydney each morning since 2020, and we wish them the very best with the continuation of their outstanding careers,' said SCA Chief Content Officer, Dave Cameron.

'As we look to 2025, we are preparing for a change for the 2DayFM Sydney Breakfast show and will make further announcements in due course.'

The Hughesy, Ed & Erin breakfast show has sensationally come to an end amid spiralling ratings and 'commitment issues'. Pictured: Ed Kavalee, Erin Molan and Dave Hughes

The program hosted by Dave Hughes , Ed Kavalee and Erin Molan managed a mere 3.6 audience share in the latest ratings survey.

The Jimmy & Nath Show - currently on the Hit national night shift - will temporarily move into the Breakfast timeslot.

The GfK Radio 360 Survey 4 saw Hughesy, Ed and Erin drop 1.4 points to a 3.6 market share earlier in the year.

The announcement follows rumours Hughes is getting set to reunite with Kate Langbroek, 58, to reboot their popular Hughesy and Kate show.

The pair last hosted Hit FM's popular show in 2019, before Langbroek took a step back from the program to move to Italy.

In July the Herald Sun reported that Melbourne is abuzz with rumours that Langbroek and Hughes, 53, are getting ready to bring back the program.

Meanwhile, Hughes recently did a guest spot on Triple M's The Rush Hour in Melbourne which was a big hit with listeners.

Hughes and Langbroek first teamed together in 2001 for Nova 100's Melbourne breakfast show.

Langbroek currently co-hosts the popular podcast The Buck Up with Nath Valvo after leaving her last commercial radio gig on KIIS FM The Pick Up two years ago.

She teased a potential radio reunion with Hughes last year.

'We're full of love for each other and nothing is off the table for us,' she told the Herald Sun last August.

The announcement follows rumours Hughes is getting set to reunite with Kate Langbroek, 58, to reboot their popular Hughesy and Kate show. Both pictured

Langbroek currently hosts the popular podcast The Buck Up alongside co-host Nath Valvo after leaving her last commercial radio gig on KIIS FM, the Pick Up, two years ago. She is also a regular panelist on Channel 10's The Project. (Pictured)

'I love Hughesy. I'm not doing radio at the moment but I will always love radio because it's such a natural medium for me.'

In March 2023, Langbroek issued a lengthy apology after publicly exposing a gender pay gay dispute between herself and Hughes on The Project.

She claimed she earned 40 per cent less than Hughesy during their time hosting Hughesy & Kate on the Hit Network for almost two decades.

Clarifying her shock admission on Instagram, Langbroek said she hadn't explained the full context of the situation due to the 'time constraints' of the Channel 10 show.

'Nor did I explain that when he found out, Hughesy was mortified - properly shocked - and immediately sought to rectify the situation,' she admitted.

'I had already procured parity for myself, by the way, but his instincts were so honourable he offered instantly to take a pay cut,' she added.

'He also vowed that from that point on, we would always negotiate together on the show we had built together, and we did, the following year, when we moved to SCA. Knowing that we could speak freely about our negotiations, and that we were treated as true equals at our new radio network was the best.'

She confessed Hughes had been 'hurt' by her comments on The Project, which is why she felt the need to clarify them.

She also said that she and Hughes weren't 'estranged' and that she was 'mortified' she had led people to believe that.
Yazmin Oukhellou showcased her toned figure in a tiny crop top and matching flared leggings as she arrived at a beauticians in Liverpool on Wednesday.

The former TOWIE star, 30, looked incredible in the cream co-ord which she teamed with matching trainers and a yellow Chanel crossbody handbag.

Styling her long dark tresses loose, Yazmin accessorised with a silver pendant necklace and carried a notebook as she took a phone call.

She was seen arriving at the MSTA Skin Training Academy in the city for day two of her five day course as she plans to open her own skincare shop in Essex.

The TV personality also took to her Instagram Story to show off her amazing figure in the outfit as she posed for a stunning mirror selfie.

Yazmin Oukhellou showcased her toned figure in a tiny crop top and matching flared leggings as she arrived at a beauticians in Liverpool on Wednesday

The former TOWIE star, 30, looked incredible in the cream co-ord which she teamed with matching trainers and a yellow Chanel crossbody handbag

It comes after Yazmin sent temperatures soaring in a skimpy black bikini as she hits the beach in Marbella, Spain last month.

She looked incredible in the two-piece which boasted a strappy top and matching tie side thong bottoms.

The TV personality showed off her amazing figure in the bikini as she walked along the beach dipping her feet in the ocean.

The reality star kept comfortable in a pair of black sandals and toted her belongings in a coordinated clutch.

The TV personality was spotted looking serious as she chatted on the phone in a beach bar during the sun-soaked getaway.

She was later seen sipping on cocktails as she soaked up the sun with a number of friends.

Yazmin was also joined on the Spanish getaway with a mystery man as the group enjoyed a lavish meal.

Meanwhile, Yazmin's ex James Lock recently revealed the reason he split from the influencer as they were seen rekindling their romance.

Styling her long dark tresses loose, Yazmin accessorised with a silver pendant necklace as she took a phone call

The TV personality also took to her Instagram Story to show off her amazing figure in the outfit as she posed for a mirror selfie ahead of attending day two of MSTA Skin Training Academy

It comes after Yazmin sent temperatures soaring in a skimpy black bikini as she hit the beach in Marbella, Spain last month

The exes, who star on Paramount+ show Ex On The Beach, were pictured putting on a cosy display earlier in March, three years after their break-up.

In an exclusive interview, James, 37, has revealed what ultimately drove them apart and the anxiety of coming face-to-face with Yazmin after a year of not speaking.

'I will never say we fell out of love, it was always there. it was more because of the pressures of the spotlight pushed us apart, being on the show together,' he said.

'Being in that fishbowl together it caused a lot of problems. It got too much at one point, she went and did her thing, I went and did mine.

'We stayed in touch here and there but prior to the show we hadn't been in contact for a year. We weren't following each other on Instagram. I hadn't been checking in with her.'

Back in 2021, it was revealed that the couple had split 'for good' following a series of furious rows and went on to live apart in Dubai.

The couple allegedly mutually agreed to cut ties, with James planning to fly home while Yazmin stayed in the UAE.

James enjoyed a steamy romance with Love Island star Megan Barton Hanson, which they documented heavily on social media.

Yazmin, meanwhile, was in a relationship with Jake McLean last year.

Things ended in tragedy last year when he was killed in a horror crash in Turkey while driving the reality star in a Mercedes E-Class while high on cocaine and nearly three times over the drink drive limit.

The couple had dated for around four years.
A This Morning guest suffered an embarrassing blunder after fans branded them 'clueless' when they got their celebrities mixed up during Wednesday's episode.

Former British politician Alan Johnson joined fellow guest Sonia Sodha and hosts Craig Doyle and Josie Gibson for a run down of the headlines as they discussed Kate Winslet's recent comments on refusing to hide her belly rolls.

However Alan found himself making a slight mistake as he went on to reference the time Kate Winslet joined pop duo Sparks on stage at Glastonbury.

Yet he had his celebrities confused, as it wasn't the Titanic star but actually Cate Blanchett who joined the musicians on stage at the festival in 2023.

The Australian actress, 55, looked sensational as she took to the stage in a bright yellow suit and quirky green sunglasses as she danced to the hit track The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte.

This Morning have been slammed for embarrassing celebrity blunder as 'absolutely clueless' guest Alan Johnson snubbed a Hollywood superstar while 'trying to sound down with the kids' during Wednesday's episode

Former British politician Alan found himself making a slight mistake as he went on to reference the time Kate Winslet joined pop duo Sparks on stage at Glastonbury

And while none of the guests corrected Alan, who is the former Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, it fell to viewers on Twitter to call him out on his blunder as they accused him of being 'clueless'.

One wrote: 'Alan Johnson desperately trying to sound down with the kids. 'I've loved Kate Winslet since she appeared with Sparks at Glastonbury'.

'It was Cate Blanchett actually which none of the other people there picked up on. Absolutely clueless.'

Others corrected him too as they penned: '#ThisMorning Someone tell Alan Johnson that was Cate Blanchett with @sparksofficial at Glastonbury NOT Kate Winslet!';

'Dis information on #thismorning it was Cate Blanchett with Sparks not Kate Winslett';

'It wasnt Kate winslet with Sparks Alan it was cate blanchett'; 'was Kate Blanchett..not Kate Winslet at Glastonbury';

'#thismorning Alan, it was Cate Blanchett, not Kate Winslet, who came on stage with Sparks at Glastonbury.'

The foursome were discussing Kate after she recently revealed in an interview with Harper's Bazaar, that during filming for her new film Lee a member of the crew suggested she sit up straighter to hide her rolls.

Alan joined fellow guest Sonia Sodha and hosts Craig Doyle and Josie Gibson for a run down of the headlines as they discussed Kate Winslet 's recent comments on refusing to hide her belly rolls

And while none of the guests corrected Alan, who is the former Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, it fell to viewers on Twitter to call him out on his blunder as they accused him of being 'clueless'

Meanwhile Josie felt empowered by Kate's statement as she hit back at trolls who comment on her outfit choices as she preached body confidence

She exclaimed: 'You know, sometimes I do get a bit of gip for wearing clothes that are too tight for me, but I love my body and I love what it does for me' (pictured in an outfit from earlier this week)

The Oscar-winning actress, 48, explained: 'There's a bit where Lee's sitting on a bench in a bikini And one of the crew came up between takes and said: "You might want to sit up straighter."

'So you can't see my belly rolls? Not on your life! It was deliberate, you know?'

Feeling empowered by Kate's statement, host Josie hit back at trolls who comment on her outfit choices as she preached body confidence.

The presenter, 39, confessed she has felt disheartened after seeing snaps of herself on the This Morning sofa where she feels her 'rolls' are showing and she wishes she'd sat up straighter.

Praising Kate, Josie hit back at viewers who criticise what she wears as she insisted she 'loves her body'.

She exclaimed: 'You know, sometimes I do get a bit of gip for wearing clothes that are too tight for me, but I love my body and I love what it does for me.'

Supporting his co-host Craig added: 'You're gorgeous and my family love you because you are so natural'.
Jenna Ortega has broken her silence on the fierce backlash that she received over participating in an X-rated age gap sex scene with her Miller's Girl costar Martin Freeman.

When Miller's Girl premiered in January, many viewers were left extremely 'uncomfortable' due to a raunchy scene that showed Martin, 52, and Jenna, 21, getting intimate with one another.

Social media users were in an uproar over it, branding the moment as 'gross' and 'troubling' thanks to their immense age difference.

Now, Jenna has addressed the negative comments in a new interview with Vanity Fair, and she explained that the film wasn't 'supposed to be comfortable.'

'It's not supposed to be a comfortable movie. It's supposed to be awful at times,' she said.

Jenna Ortega has broken her silence on the fierce backlash that she received over participating in an X-rated age gap sex scene with her Miller's Girl costar Martin Freeman

When Miller's Girl premiered in January, many viewers were left 'uncomfortable' thanks to a raunchy scene that showed Martin, 52, and Jenna, 21, getting intimate with one another

Now, Jenna has addressed the negative comments in a new interview with Vanity Fair, and she explained that the film wasn't 'supposed to be comfortable'

'Art isn't always meant to be pleasant or happy, and everyone skips off into the sunset at the end. We all have f**ked-up experiences at one point or another.'

In Miller's Girl, Wednesday star Jenna played 18-year-old student Cairo Sweet, while Martin took on the role of her teacher Jonathan Miller.

The film saw the two get tangled in a very complex and inappropriate relationship, that kicks off when Cairo writes a sex story as part of a creative writing assignment given to her by Jonathan.

Racy scenes from this story are then played out on screen by the duo - which left viewers outraged.

Martin previously defended the controversial scene to The Times, and he said the movie was meant to be 'grown-up and nuanced.'

'It's not saying, "Isn't [an age-gap romance] great,"' he insisted.

He told the publication that 'stories about difficult subjects' can be 'tainted by association.'

'And that's a shame. Are we gonna have a go at Liam Neeson for being in a film about the Holocaust?' he added, referring to Steven Spielberg's 1992 film Schindler's List, in which Liam played a businessman who joins the Nazi party during World War II.

'It's not supposed to be a comfortable movie. It's supposed to be awful at times,' she said. 'Art isn't always meant to be pleasant or happy.' She's seen in the flick

Martin previously defended the controversial scene to The Times , and he said the movie was meant to be 'grown-up and nuanced.' He's seen third from right with the rest of the cast

Amid the scrutiny, intimacy coordinator Kristina Arjona revealed exclusively to DailyMail.com that Jenna was totally 'comfortable and sure' about filming the explicit scenes for the movie.

'There were many, many people throughout this process, engaging with [Jenna] to make sure that it was consistent with what she was comfortable with, and she was very determined and very sure of what she wanted to do,' Kristina said.

'Part of my job too is supporting her decisions. I adapt to whatever is the comfort level of my actors, especially on a production like this where there is a large age gap between the actors.

'I'm hyper aware of both of my talent and making sure that we're consistently checking in and that at no point are any of their boundaries being surpassed.

'And again, making sure - especially with someone who's significantly younger - that they are giving continuous consent.'

Kristina insisted that she had discussed the 'level of nudity' with Jenna and Martin, as well as which 'simulated sex scenes' were required, before talking them through modesty garments and the 'additional barriers' they could use to ensure an 'appropriate distance' was maintained.

'It's not saying, "Isn't [an age-gap romance] great,"' he insisted. Jenna and Martin are seen together in January

Social media users were in an uproar over the scene after the film came out, branding the moment as 'gross' and 'troubling' thanks to their immense age difference

This information was also given to the actors in a written format 48 hours before the scenes were filmed, but Kristina stressed that they 'also have the option on the day to change their mind if they don't want to do any of the elements that we've discussed.'

She revealed there were ample discussions between cast and crew before the scenes were shot and that test audiences were used to give bosses an idea of what was 'too much.'

'For this film, in particular, because of the sensitivity of the content, they had some different variations of how they wanted to shoot these scenes so that audiences could watch them at test screenings to see what was too much,' she added.

Elsewhere in her Vanity Fair interview, Jenna also responded to criticism over comments she made regarding rewrites she made on hit show Wednesday.

Elsewhere in her Vanity Fair interview, Jenna also responded to criticism over comments she made regarding rewrites she made on her hit show Wednesday

Last year, the actress was scrutinized after she admitted that she changed many of the lines while filming the show because she thought that the original script 'didn't make sense'

'To be fair, I think I probably could have been I probably could have used my words better in describing all of that,' she admitted

Last year, the actress was scrutinized after she slammed the creators of the Netflix series and admitted that she changed many of the lines while filming the show because she thought that the original script 'didn't make sense.'

She was branded as 'entitled' and rude' over her 'unprofessional' behavior on set, and now, she admitted that she regrets her previous comments.

'I'm aware of my position as an actor. I know that I'm not in charge,' she told Vanity Fair this week.

'But I think with someone like Wednesday, who is in every scene, it only makes sense for that person to be that involved in what's going on behind the scenes because she's onscreen every second of the project.

'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, I'm such a rambler. I think it was hard because I felt like had I represented the situation better, it probably would've been received better.

'Everything that I said felt so magnified. It felt almost dystopian to me, I felt like a caricature of myself.'
Zac Efron partied in Mykonos, Greece just days before being hospitalized in Ibiza this past weekend after he dove deep into a pool at a villa early Saturday.

The 36-year-old actor was seen having a blast as he even kissed handsome pal Panos Spentzos while partying it up on the stunning island in the South Aegean on Thursday, August 1.

Just days ago the reason for his hospitalization was revealed but the High School Musical actor certainly did not seem to have any inkling to the medical emergency he would encounter as he hit Lio Restaurant on his holiday.

Zac sweetly grabbed onto the torso of his friend Panos - who starred in MTV reality series Lindsay Lohan's Beach Club - as he planted a sweet smooch on his cheek.

Zac Efron partied in Mykonos, Greece just days before being hospitalized in Ibiza this past weekend after he dove deep into a pool at a villa early Saturday

He kept his look simple in a light blue short-sleeved button-down top, blue jeans, and a white backwards cap.

The actor certainly seemed like a social butterfly as he happily posed for a group photo with several attendees including what looked to be a group of dancers.

Though Zac seems to be enjoying a holiday of partying in Europe, it did come with a slight hiccup.

It was recently revealed that the reason behind his mystery hospitalization was due to his chest striking the pool's bottom, leading to him ingesting water in his lungs.

Insiders told TMZ on Monday that the 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.

The 36-year-old actor was seen having a blast as he even kissed handsome pal Panos Spentzos while partying it up on the stunning island in the South Aegean on Thursday, August 1

The actor certainly seemed like a social butterfly as he happily posed for a group photo with several attendees including what looked to be a group of dancers

The star 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 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.
Legendary noughties sitcom Scrubs has teased it could make an epic return in the next six months after 14 years off screen.

Premiering in 2001, Scrubs is an American medical sitcom which followed employees at the fictional Sacred Heart Hospital for nine seasons in total.

And now the show's creator Bill Lawrence has revealed that the beloved sitcom's cast could reunite in the next 'six months to a year' as they all feel they have 'stories to tell.'

Speaking to the Independent he confessed: 'We've been talking about it. We all spend time with each other in real life, but everybody is so talented from that show that they're all working.

'We've really started to entertain the idea about getting the band back together because we all feel like we do have some stories to tell.

Legendary noughties sitcom Scrubs has teased it could make an epic return in the next six months after 14 years off screen

Premiering in 2001, Scrubs is an American medical sitcom which followed employees at the fictional Sacred Heart Hospital for nine seasons in total (pictured castmates Zach Braff, Sarah Chalke, John C. McGinley, and Christa Miller in April, also joined by Amanda Kloots L-R)

'People in the medical community are heroes right now. They certainly aren't doing it for the money! It's been a crazy rough time, so I would not be surprised if we figure something out in the next six months to a year.'

While the writer hinted at bringing back the series, he confirmed he wouldn't embark on returning with a full movie adaptation.

Scrubs was nominated for 17 Emmy Awards throughout its run and made stars out of lead actors Zach Braff and Donald Faison.

Zach played J.D. Dorian, the show's protagonist and narrator while Donald starred as Christopher Turk, J.D.'s best friend and a surgeon who eventually becomes the chief of surgery at Sacred Heart Hospital as the series progresses.

Throughout the year's the cast have remained in touch and Bill recently reunited with Zach for his new Apple+ crime comedy series Bad Monkey.

Zach stars as disgraced, drug-addicted doctor named Israel O'Peele, who is slightly different to his young physician character JD Dorian in Scrubs.

In March 2020, Zach and Donald launched the re-watch podcast Fake Doctors, Real Friends, which is distributed by iHeartRadio.

On the podcast, which the two co-host, the former co-stars and real life BFFS share their stories and experiences from their time working on Scrubs.

The show's creator Bill Lawrence (L) confessed: 'We've been talking about it. We all spend time with each other in real life, but everybody is so talented from that show that they're all working'

Scrubs was nominated for 17 Emmy Awards throughout its run and made stars out of lead actors Zach Braff and Donald Faison (pictured Sarah Chalke as Elliot Reid, Zach Braff as John "J.D." Dorian)

Zach also previously suggested he'd been interested in making more episodes of Scrubs as he revealed that the cast would all love to reunite 'in some capacity whether it's a movie or a limited series or something' but there are no current plans.

'It's just that we can't do it without the king of all things Scrubs, Bill Lawrence,' the 46-year-old New Jersey native told THR.

'He just signed the biggest deal of all time [with Warner Bros. TV] and he is a bit busy. When Bill's available, so sometime in 3004.

'But in all seriousness, if the thing was right, I'm sure there's not a single cast member that wouldn't love to come back together and do it in some form.'

He also said in 2017: 'It's something we all talk about, especially now all these people are going back and doing Netflix versions of their shows.

'I'm very jealous of all this Gilmore Girls attention, and Full House. We talk about it every now and then, so you never know. I'd do it!'
Blake Lively played a jewel thief in a very glamorous Vogue shoot directed by legendary filmmaker, Baz Luhrmann.

The shoot, entitled 'The Heist of the Heart', sees Blake, 36, channel a glamorous bandit named The Cat - while Hugh Jackman, 55, co-starred as L'Ombre, a man who romantically woes the thief but is secretly attempting to get her apprehended.

In the images, The Cat hunts down a gorgeous Cartier High Jewelry necklace belonging to someone else - before she is arrested thanks to L'Ombre's efforts.

The cover sees the It Ends With Us star holding the glittering necklace as she poses in a glam black dress with her hair immaculately styled into a sweeping 'do.

Set in Monte Carlo, the story begins with The Cat, admiring her latest prize - a stolen ruby necklace which belonged to Elizabeth Taylor.

Blake Lively played a jewel thief in a very glamorous Vogue shoot directed by filmmaker, Baz Luhrmann

She wears a black Balenciaga pantabodysuit, hat by Hood London, and sunglasses as she perches on a railing overlooking the city at night.

Throughout the article, a script details the glamorous tale of The Cat as she attempts to steal a Cartier necklace belonging to a Doyenne.

At a party, Blake is shown glammed up in a gold LaQuan Smith dress at a casino. L'Ombre is entranced by The Cat as he prepares to throw the dice.

However, The Cat seems more interested in the Cartier necklace worn by The Doyenne.

L'Ombre is on assignment to take down The Cat but still finds himself getting close to The Cat despite orders instructing him not to do so.

He approaches The Cat on the beach the day after the casino scene, and then the duo explore the sights on motorbike.

L'Ombre drives the motorbike as The Cat, clad in a glam polka dot dress by Dolce & Gabbana, grins with glee and holds onto him.

But eventually, she is captured by the authorities.

She wears a black Balenciaga pantabodysuit, hat by Hood London, and sunglasses as she perches on a railing overlooking the city at night with Elizabeth Taylor's stolen ruby necklace in her hand

Lively appears on the cover clad in a chic black dress and with her hair swept into a glamorous updo

Hugh plays L'Ombre in the shoot, a man who romantically woes The Cat but eventually leads to her arrest

The final shot in the spread sees Blake being arrested, her eyes on L'Ombre. However, he manages to turn his head away from The Cat despite a longing for 'one last glance,' according to the script.

'As L'Ombre resists the urge to steal one last glance... The question lingers in the air: "What might have been?"' the script reads.

Speaking with Vogue in an interview conducted in Rome, Blake said: 'Im just gonna go out on a limb and say Baz is my favorite director."

'I just love Baz so much. Because he celebrates love. Nobody does love like that,' she added.

Hugh is friends with Blake's husband Ryan Reynolds and the leading men currently star opposite one another in the newly released film, Deadpool & Wolverine; the trio pictured at the premiere of It Ends With Us

Asked if Baz was the reason she decided to do the shoot, she replied: 'Im a very shy person, so I dont like doing photo shoots, really. Because when Im acting, Im playing a character. And I dontI dont feel super comfortable in front of a camera. Its part of why I dont want to be in magazines.

'I know its not something Im supposed to sayI mean, this is I think the first cover Ive done in four years. Because I just,' she said before growing quiet and adding, 'I'm just too shy.'

'My life has become more intimate,' she said, referencing how she's been more centered on raising the three children she shares with husband Ryan Reynolds and, in turn, appearing in fewer movies.

'But when they said Baz will do it, I thought, Okay, Ive always wanted to work with Baz. Even if its just a week doing a photo shoot for Vogue, thats still working with him. Seeing through his lens and how he tells stories,' she said.

She said with a slight laugh: 'Gracing these pages is not my gift to the world. I understand Im lucky to do it.'

Hugh and Ryan in a scene from Deadpool & Wolverine

Speaking of the scene in which she handles Elizabeth Taylor's necklace, she said: 'and I had Elizabeth Taylor's necklace!'

'Elizabeth Taylors necklace in my hand. I have to show you. So there were these people there that had these rubber covers on their fingers, and I had a foam mat below me in case the necklace fell.'

Hugh is friends with Blake's husband Ryan Reynolds and the leading men currently star opposite one another in the newly released film, Deadpool & Wolverine.

'They are megawatt stars,' Hugh told Vogue of the couple during a phone call from London. 'These are like old-school megawatt starsand of course Ive spent many hours with them, like in pajamas just hanging out in their house with their nine hundred children and dogs and it is just as normal as can be, and Blake will be baking and cooking and saying, "Lets make pizza," and then the next thing you turn around,' he explained, referencing her glamming up for an event, 'and there she is, this incredible star. Itsits astonishing to me.'

Blake and Ryan have been married since 2012 and share three children together: daughters Inez, seven, Betty, four, and son Olin, one.
Fred Sirieix has praised his daughter Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix in an emotional Instagram post after she opened up about her mental health battles.

The Olympic diver, 19, won a bronze in the 10m synchronised dive last week, but finished in sixth place on Tuesday for the second Olympics in a row.

The Team GB diving star has previously disclosed how she struggled with anxiety following her Games debut in Tokyo 2021 and almost gave up the sport.

And while the diver was visibly upset by the result, her father Fred posted an emotional Instagram message praising her.

In the post he shared a video of his daughter's dive before a picture of the two of them hugging afterwards with the pair beaming at the camera.

Fred Sirieix has praised his daughter Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix in an emotional Instagram post after she opened up about her mental health battles

The Olympic diver, 19, won a bronze in the 10m synchronised dive last week, but finished in sixth place on Tuesday for the second Olympics in a row

In the post he shared a video of his daughter's dive before a picture of the two of them hugging afterwards alongside a heartfelt message of love and support

The First Dates host shared a behind-the-scenes snap of Andrea addressing cameras with his arm around her following her dive as well as some family pictures of him with his two children walking around Paris.

The celebrity maitre'd finished his post with a throwback snap of him with Andrea on his shoulders as a little girl clutching a handful of candyfloss.

The proud father captioned the post: 'Thank you for this incredible adventure and the inspiration Andrea. What a beautiful moment! You and your brother are the best thing I have ever done and will ever do  #lavieestbelle'

Andrea commented underneath the heartfelt tribute to her simply with: 'I love you'.

The Olympic diver fought back tears on Tuesday as she revealed her mental health battles in 2021  and why she is now just grateful to be here.

'Three years ago, I didn't even want to be alive, so today I'm just happy that I am alive, that I'm breathing and that I've got my family to support me.' said the teenage Team GB star.

'After Tokyo, it was a really scary time for myself. That is why I treasure every morning because my eyes have woken up and I have got breath in my lungs.

'I woke up this morning and the first thought that I had was that I am happy I woke up. That's just how it has been for a long time.'

The First Dates host shared a behind-the-scenes snap of Andrea addressing cameras with his arm around her following her dive where he told her how proud he was

Fred also shared a family picture of him with his two children walking around Paris and enjoying the Olympic village with Andrea dressed in her Team GB kit

Following her event, Andrea was consoled by her father and her mother Alessandra in the stands.

In front of cameras, Fred comforted his daughter and told her: 'It's sport. Some days you win and some days you lose. And yesterday you did brilliant.'

Andrea paid tribute to her parents, and told reporters that she was glad they were poolside to support her.

She said: 'In that time, I stuck very close to my family and that's why it means everything for them to be here because they have seen me at my lowest and now they have seen me compete at the Olympic Games.

'That's all I really wanted.'

Andrea had hoped to win a second medal in her individual event, having come in as the world bronze medallist. But she never recovered after a poor second dive, with China's Hongchan Quan retaining her title.

'Not getting a medal today does not take away from the medal I have received and the achievements I have done the whole three years since Tokyo,' added Andrea.

'I feel I have grown as a human, not just as an athlete, and that is the most valuable thing diving has ever given me.'

'You did your best Andrea,' the father said, before pulling in his daughter for a hug

Team GB star Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix during the Women's 10m Platform Final

First Dates star Fred told the BBC today how 'proud' he was of his 'little girl', after he and her mother Alessandra consoled her in the stands.

He said: 'What I love about my daughter is her positivity. Today she didn't make it to the podium, tonight (Tuesday) she is going to have a quiet night, and tomorrow (Wednesday) she is back to being happy, smiley Andrea. Just enjoying life, enjoying Paris, and enjoying the moment.

'That is Andrea - and that is beautiful because it is about balance. It is about knowing who you are and making the most of life, and that is what she is doing. So I am very happy for her.'
Tori Spelling admitted she felt 'free' when her ex husband Dean McDermott publicized their split last year.

The Beverly Hills, 90210 star, 51  who recently said she is considering joining OnlyFans  opened up on Monday about feeling relieved that he made the Instagram announcement, while on her podcast misSPELLING.

In the since deleted post, the Canadian actor, 57, explained that he and the blonde beauty were going 'separate ways' and plan to 'start a new journey' apart.

Recalling the events, she explained in her podcast that he 'apologized' for the post and deleted it  bringing up that it was shared amid his alcoholic 'spiral.'

'He was reacting emotionally, and he was still drinking and, you know, he was in that spiral,' she shared. 'But I gotta say, when I saw that post  inside, I was like, "Oh, thank god."'

Tori Spelling admitted she felt 'free' when her ex husband Dean McDermott publicized their split on Instagram last year; seen in 2023

'Because I don't know if I could have done it. I want to do it. I want it to be strong enough,' she said.

The Los Angeles native called it quits with her husband of 18 years on March 29, citing irreconcilable differences. Court documents list their separation date as June 17, 2023, the same day McDermott posted the news on social media.

She petitioned for sole physical custody of their five children, Liam Aaron McDermott, 17, Stella Doreen, 16, Hattie Margaret, 12, Finn Davey, 11 and Beau Dean, seven.

Tori also asked for joint legal custody of her kids. McDermott's visitation rights have yet to be finalized by a judge.

In an April episode of her misSPELLING podcast she explained that the My Fake Boyfriend star wanted to divorce, leading to the since deleted announcement post that was shared without her consent.

'I looked at [his post] and I'm not kidding you guys, I felt like this giant rock had been lifted off my chest,' she shared.

'I could breathe deeply, and I was like, "Oh my God. He said it. He said it, so now I'm free,"' the actress admitted.

And according to Tori, the father of her children had threatened to file for divorce '1 million times.'

In a since deleted social media post, the Canadian actor, 57, explained that he and the blonde beauty were going 'separate ways' and plan to 'start a new journey' apart; seen in 2018

Recalling the events, she explained in her podcast that he 'apologized' for the post and deleted it - bringing up that it was shared amid his alcoholic 'spiral'; seen in 2019

The Los Angeles native called it quits with her husband of 18 years on March 29, citing irreconcilable differences; Tori seen in 2024

She petitioned for sole physical custody of their five children, Liam Aaron McDermott, 17, Stella Doreen, 16, Hattie Margaret, 12, Finn Davey, 11 and Beau Dean, seven; seen with Dean in 2019

Tori also asked for joint legal custody of her kids. McDermott's visitation rights have yet to be finalized by a judge; Tori, Dean, Liam, Stella and Finn Davey seen in 2023

'I don't think I've ever threatened that, like, ever. And there were times where I desperately wanted it,' she said. 'But, like, I would never throw that in someone's face if I didn't actually mean it.

'I didn't have the balls to leave,' she admitted while recalling the post. 'I couldn't do it and he did it. [I thought] "Now I can move on. He's put it out there. Let's go. Yes! I needed this," you know? Like, I couldn't do it myself.'

Spelling and McDermott tied the knot back in May of 2006 in Fiji. Their nuptials were documented on the couple's cancelled reality show Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, which was on air from 2007 to 2012.
Kelly Brook appeared in a cheerful mood as she returned to work after her holiday in Greece.

The Heart Radio presenter, 44, showed off her hourglass figure in a floral maxi dress as she left the studios on Wednesday.

Kelly teamed the look with a wicker shoulder bag, tortoise shell sunglasses and wedges.

The model flashed a smile to the cameras upon her departure from Global studios.

Kelly was no doubt refreshed after her romantic trip to Greece with her husband Jeremy Parisi, 39.

Kelly Brook appeared in a cheerful mood as she returned to work after her holiday in Greece

The Heart Radio presenter, 44, showed off her hourglass figure in a floral maxi dress as she left the studios on Wednesday

The presenter shared an insight into her trip on Instagram.

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.

Meanwhile a shirtless Jeremy displayed his muscular physique in a pair of grey swimming shorts and sunglasses.

In a second snap during the holiday, Kelly looked sensational in a white and black striped bikini as she relaxed on a beach.

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.

Kelly teamed the look with a wicker shoulder bag, tortoise shell sunglasses and wedges

Kelly was no doubt refreshed after her romantic trip to Greece with her husband Jeremy Parisi , 39

Kelly looked incredible as she showed off her amazing curves in a black and white striped bikini as she relaxed at a beach

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

Jeremy commented on the post with a number of red heart emojis

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.

'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'.

Jeremy commented on the post with a number of red heart emojis.

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.
The Chase star Shaun Wallace has addressed rumours that he has been 'sacked' from the ITV game show.

Also known as the Dark Destroyer, Shaun, 64, revealed the real reason why he is sometimes absent from the show.

The 2004 Mastermind champion, who is a successful barrister when he isn't on the quiz show, explained his on-off absences are due to his legal commitments.

Speaking on The Hearing - A Legal Podcast, Shaun said: 'If I've got a long trial, then that will take precedence over my filming, and the Chase know that. But I've then got to make up my other episodes later on in the series.

'So when people see me... not seen me on TV for a long... "Has he been sacked?" No, just back to my legal career.

The Chase star Shaun Wallace, 64, has addressed rumours that he has been 'sacked' from the ITV game show (pictured in 2018)

Also known as the Dark Destroyer, Shaun revealed the real reason why he is sometimes absent from the show

Shaun, who has been in the legal profession for more than three decades, does however acknowledge his TV role 'could all end tomorrow', he told New Zealand Woman's Weekly.

It comes after Shaun's co-star Anne Hegerty, a Chaser since series two, admitted she is 'worried' about the future of the quiz show as ITV makes budget cuts.

Anne told The Star: 'We have plans for next year and we are doing fewer shows. All the streaming services are carrying adverts now.

'So, channels like ITV are having to compete for advertising money. It means there is less money from adverts. Every aspect of the media is feeling the pinch right now.'

'Obviously, one is always a little bit worried and one is always glad to hear there will be more episodes.'

Anne added that she doesn't want to 'imagine life without' The Chase, which she has been a part of since 2010.

The Chase fans vowed to 'switch off' just minutes into Monday's show after a Chaser admitted they're 'worried' for the series amid ITV budget cuts.

Monday's episode saw Lily, a sociology student at university, struggle against Paul Sinha - statistically the programme's strongest Chaser.

The 2004 Mastermind champion, who is a successful barrister when he isn't on the quiz show, explained his on-off absences are due to his legal commitments

Shaun, who has been in the legal profession for more than three decades, does however acknowledge his TV role 'could all end tomorrow'

It comes after Shaun's co-star Anne Hegerty, a Chaser since series two, admitted she is 'worried' about the future of the quiz show as ITV makes budget cuts

Lily, 20, struggled to get just three correct questions in the cash builder and, after going head-to-head with Paul, 54, at the table, was quickly eliminated - managing only one correct answer.

Viewers were irritated by Lily's poor performance on The Chase, hosted by Bradley Walsh, and headed to X, formerly Twitter, to vent.

They wrote in scathing tweets: 'Really, I can't stand it when they don't have a clue on the Chase. I'm switching off'.
Brittany Cartwright was seen with her son Cruz in Los Angeles on Wednesday, following estranged husband Jax Taylor checking into rehab.

The 35-year-old reality star  who recently sparked romance rumors with The Bachelorette star Tanner Courtad  appeared tense as she held their three-year-old son in her arms amid the news of Jax seeking mental health treatment.

Wearing a casual outfit of a red plaid shirt and black biker shorts, the brunette beauty kept her only child close as she navigated through a parking lot.

She maintained a low profile behind dark designer sunglasses, finishing her look with a messy bun and white sliders.

The outing comes after Jax 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 Brittany and Cruz.

Brittany Cartwright was seen with her son Cruz in Los Angeles on Wednesday, following estranged husband Jax Taylor checking into rehab

The 35-year-old reality star looked visibly tense as she held their three-year-old son in her arms amid the news of Jax seeking mental health treatment

'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.

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.

Jax Taylor is still 'in communication' with his son Cruz and estranged wife Brittany Cartwright while in mental health facility

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

'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.

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.

Brittany has been 'hanging out' lately with former Bachelorette suitor Tanner Courtad, sparking romance rumors on social media

Cartwright has recently paid off her $35k tax debt, DailyMail.com can exclusively report; (seen in June)

'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.

'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.'

Brittnay and Jax  who share three-year-old son Cruz  announced their separation in February after nearly five years of marriage; (seen with their son in May 2023)

The former pair started dating in 2015. They got engaged in 2018, married in June 2019 and welcomed their son Cruz in 2021; (seen in March 2023)

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.'
Two suspects have been arrested for allegedly plotting a terror attack on Taylor Swift's upcoming shows in Vienna, Austria.

The 19-year-old main suspect was arrested in Ternitz, south of Vienna, and the second person in the Austrian capital - according to Franz Ruf, director-general for public safety in the Ministry of the Interior.

The popstar, 34, is due to perform at Vienna's Ernst-Happel-Stadion on August 8, 9, and 10 and security measures for the shows will be stepped up.

The suspects - who allegedly radicalized themselves online - were planning to target Vienna in their attack - with the 19-year-old having a particular focus on Swift's Vienna concert, Ruf confirmed.

He added that authorities were aware of 'preparatory actions' for a possible attack.

The 19-year-old had pledged an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State group in early July - police said.

Two suspects have been arrested for allegedly plotting a terror attack on Taylor Swift's upcoming shows in Vienna, Austria - Swift is pictured performing in London in June

The popstar, 34, is due to perform at Vienna's Ernst-Happel Stadion (pictured) on August 8, 9, and 10 and security measures for the shows will be stepped up

A bomb squad reportedly found chemical substances after raiding the 19-year-old's home, who was suspected of possessing an explosive device - and the substances are now being evaluated to see if they could make a bomb.

The names of the suspects have not been released yet.

Ruf said that there would be a special focus on entry checks and concertgoers should plan to arrive in plenty of time.

The shows are expected to be attended by 65,000 concertgoers per day, with an additional 10,000 to 15,000 fans outside of the area, police said.

Vienna police chief Gerhard Purst said that, while any concrete danger had been minimized, an abstract risk justified raising security.

DailyMail.com has contacted Taylor Swift's representative for comment.

The record-breaking Eras Tour will end in Vancouver, Canada, on December 8.

The 152-date concert series, in which Swift runs through hits from her 17-year career, is expected to surpass $2 billion by the end of its run in December, with the staggering per night receipts revealed by Variety last month.

'One source close to the production said early in the Eras Tour era that her average gross each night is $14 million,' reported the outlet. 'Others believe that is a highly conservative estimate, with a possible total that on at least some nights edges closer to $17 million.'

The shows are expected to be attended by 65,000 concertgoers per day, with an additional 10,000 to 15,000 fans outside of the area, police said - Swift pictured performing in Amsterdam in July

The 152-date concert series, in which Swift runs through hits from her 17-year career, is expected to surpass $2 billion by the end of its run in December, with the staggering per night receipts revealed by Variety last month - pictured performing in Munich last month

This marks an increase from earlier Forbes reports, which estimated the figure to be between $10 and $13 million.

Notably, this figure excludes revenue from inflated resale tickets, which have often sold for several times their original price. Swift opted not to profit from the scalping of her own tickets, which averaged around $230 and reached a maximum of $499, excluding VIP packages that topped out at $899.

Additionally, the Eras Tour film, released last fall before the tour ended, grossed over $180 million domestically and $261 million worldwide, surpassing records set by Justin Bieber's concert film in the U.S. and Michael Jackson's globally, per Variety.

The major hiccup for The Eras Tour happened in November 2022 when Ticketmaster's system crashed due to overwhelming demand, causing delays for thousands of fans.

Despite setting a record with 2 million tickets sold in a single day, the blame fell on the ticketing platform, not Swift herself.

While she has had an incredibly successful year - between her 152-date Eras Tour and the release of The Tortured Poets Department - Taylor is already working on new music, which insiders now say could be released as early as next year.

According to sources, the Cruel Summer singer has no plans for a lengthy break and is already working on new music for a 2025 release  and is also in talks to hit the road again in 2026, insiders claim.

Despite some of her fans, or 'Swifties,' voicing apparent fatigue over her constant chart domination and seemingly never-ending release of TTPD variants  of which there are currently 30 plus - Taylor is determined to keep the wheels turning on her lucrative success.

Speaking to DailyMail.com, insiders have claimed she has been writing new material while on the road  which could see her address the controversy surrounding her alleged rivalry with Charli XCX.

Taylor is working on a new record which is due out in 2025 followed by a new tour in 2026, an insider told DailyMail.com. She is heavily inspired by all the new experiences she is having on the Eras tour and has been quietly writing songs backstage.
A brand new teaser trailer dropped for the highly-anticipated Wicked movie on Wednesday - and fans can't contain their excitement.

The official social media accounts for the film dropped the thirty-second sneak peak clip with the caption: 'Welcome to Oz #WickedWednesday.'

The two-part film is an adaptation of Broadway's hit 2004 musical Wicked, and is starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo as Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba the Wicked Witch of the West.

It features an unlikely friendship that emerges between Elphaba and Glinda, two clashing witches in the magical land of Oz.

In a newly teased scene, Elphaba is shocked as she reads a letter that says: 'The wonderful Wizard of Oz welcomes you to the Emerald City.'

A brand new teaser trailer dropped for the highly-anticipated Wicked movie on Wednesday - and fans can't contain their excitement

In the trailer, Ariana's Glinda exclaims: 'What? 'I couldn't possibly, this is your moment,' before quickly changing her mind and shouting 'I'm coming,' as she leaps onto the moving train

Other scenes show Glinda and Elphaba walking hand-in-hand through the gates of the Wizard's palace in Emerald City

Then, the trailer cuts to the green witch speeding away on a train to make her journey, shouting to Ariana's Glinda: 'Come with me! To meet the wizard.'

Wielding her recognizable, billowing, puff sleeved pink dress, Glinda begins sprinting down the platform to keep up.

She exclaims: 'What? 'I couldn't possibly, this is your moment,' before quickly changing her mind and shouting 'I'm coming,' as she leaps onto the moving train.

In the dramatic teaser, a voiceover says: 'Just follow the road. It's gonna lead you right' as the words 'Welcome to Oz' flash onto the screen.

Fields of pink, purple, blue and yellow can be seen for miles, as well as the iconic yellow brick road and fireworks erupting from a castle in the distance.

Other scenes show Glinda and Elphaba walking hand-in-hand through the gates of the Wizard's palace in Emerald City.

Also seen in the new trailer is Jeff Goldblum looking menacing in his role as The Wizard.

The footage takes a turn as Elphaba says: ' 'Something bad is happening in Oz. I've got to do something.'

Also seen in the new trailer is Jeff Goldblum looking menacing in his role as The Wizard

The footage takes a turn as Elphaba says: ' 'Something bad is happening in Oz. I've got to do something'

The trailer features a scene where the green witch is speeding away on a train to make her journey, shouting to Ariana's Glinda: 'Come with me! To meet the wizard'

It ends with climactic scenes of a statue on fire and of Elphaba smashing through a window and flying away.

Part One of the movie is set to be released on November 27, 2024 and part Two will be released November 26, 2025.

The rest of the cast includes Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Keala Settle, Bronwyn James, Adam James and Bowen Yang.

Wicked is the origin story of 'a green-skinned woman who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West.'

It serves as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, exploring the narrative before Dorothy's arrival and delving into the former friendship between the characters Elphaba and Glinda.

Fans were thrilled at the shock new teaser trailer, taking to X to express their excitement at the movie's release, writing:

'So excited crying.'

'AHHHH WE CAN'T WAIT.'

'i speak for everyone when I say we will be watching.'

'OHHHH IM SO SEATED AND EXCITED.'

'I seriously cannot wait to see this movie.'

'When is the motion picture soundtrack dropping? I need to know a date please.'

'I just cant wait any longer omg.'

The official social media accounts for the film dropped the thirty-second sneak peak clip with the caption: 'Welcome to Oz #WickedWednesday'

Fans were thrilled at the shock new teaser trailer, taking to X to express their excitement at the movie's release

'I will never forget even a minute of my year(s) with [Glinda],' she wrote on her Instagram Story, at the time. 'Or you. or my Cyn. permanently and preferably intertwined' (pictured with costar Cynthia Erivo)

Shooting for the film wrapped in January. At the time, Ariana shared an emotional post about her experience shooting Wicked.

'I will never forget even a minute of my year(s) with [Glinda],' she wrote on her Instagram Story. 'Or you. or my Cyn [Cynthia Erivo]. Permanently and preferably intertwined,' she wrote on Instagram, at the time.

She continued: 'I am so inexplicably thankful that we got to add so many soggy eyelashes to the collection.'

The two-time Grammy winner went on to thank the film's director, Jon M. Chu, as she admitted that 'there aren't words quite yet' to describe her emotions.

'Thank you, Jon, for leading the way with such compassion, openness, brilliance and kindness,' she concluded. 'I have never seen someone conduct a space the way you do. I love you so much.'

Her post was in response to Chu's Instagram post, bidding farewell to their time together on set.

The film director, 44, declared that he would 'never forget' his year working with Grande.

'Can't wait for you to meet her,' he told his followers.

He concluded: 'Thank you @arianagrande for pouring your heart into Oz.'
Anna Paul has called out a Love Island star for lying about having met her during his European holiday.

The TikTok star, 25, took to her Instagram Stories on Wednesday to re-share a post from Jordan Dowsett where he claimed to have met her.

Jordan, who starred on the fourth season of Love Island Australia, showed off his muscular frame as he posted a shirtless snap while in the sea in Positano, Italy.

In the caption, he gushed over meeting influencer Anna earlier in the day, even tagging her in the post as he shared the news with his 58,000 followers.

He penned: 'In love with this coast line. Met @annapaul today which was so cute.'

However, Anna was quick to hit back at his post as she insisted he was lying about having met her because she isn't even on the Amalfi Coast anymore.

Re-sharing the snap, Anna penned: 'No you didn't HAHA. I'm not even in Positano anymore. People are crazy.'

Just hours later, she shared a photograph of herself enjoying the mountain landscapes in Bayern, Germany, confirming she was no longer in Italy.

Anna Paul has called out Love Island star Jordan Dowsett for lying about having met her during his Amalfi Coast holiday

The TikTok star, 25, took to Instagram on Wednesday to re-share a post from Jordan Dowsett where he claimed to have met her, slamming him as 'crazy' for lying about the encounter

Jordan later confirmed that he was just 'taking the p**s' and hadn't really met the popular social media star, but fans questioned whether he only addressed it after being 'called out'

Jordan's original post no longer features on his Instagram, but it is unclear if he deleted it, or if it expired from the 24-hour time slot on his Stories.

But he later took to his Instagram Grid to confirm that he was just 'taking the p**s' and hadn't really met the popular social media star.

Sharing shirtless snaps of himself enjoying the ocean views, he wrote: 'I take the p**s everyday and yesterday was @annapaul turn.'

However, fans were less than convinced as they questioned whether he had only addressed the awkward gaffe because he had been 'called out' by Anna.

One wrote: 'Did you take the piss or did you get caught,' while another said: 'I don't think you were taking the piss I think she just called you out.'

A third commented: 'Damn you really embarrassed yourself,' while another added: 'Bruh just delete it all.'

Other fans saw the funny side and joked it was a 'smooth' way for Jordan to try and strike up a conversation with Anna, who has 2.4million followers on Instagram.

'If u was tryna get in the DMs that was lowkey smooth,' one said, while another joked: 'This is you shooting your shot and I respect that.'

Just hours later, Anna shared a photograph of herself enjoying the mountain landscapes in Bayern, Germany, confirming she was no longer even in Italy

Anna has been soaking up the sun on a European getaway over the past few weeks with her family and her new boyfriend Aymeric Urbain (both pictured in Mallorca, Spain)

Anna has been soaking up the sun on a European getaway over the past few weeks with her family and her new boyfriend Aymeric Urbain.

She has been sharing a whole host of pictures and videos from their epic trip, which has seen them travel around Spain, Italy, Turkey and Croatia.

After weeks of speculation about her and Aymeric's relationship status, Anna has also 'hard-launched' their romance on social media during the big trip.

She shared a video of herself and Aymeric jumping into the sea together in Mallorca as she finally went Instagram official with her new boyfriend.
Lindsay Lohan indulged in a spot of quality time with her husband Bader Shammas and their son Luai, one, in California on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old actress currently lives with her family in Dubai, where Bader holds a position as assistant vice president at Credit Suisse.

In recent weeks, Lindsay has been working in Los Angeles with Jamie Lee Curtis, filming the sequel to their smash hit 2003 comedy Freaky Friday.

During a snatch of off-time, Lindsay could be spotted lovingly watching her husband as he played with their little boy outdoors in Laguna Beach.

She was the image of summery style in a sleeveless white crop top, teamed with a matching skirt that fell to ankle length.

Lindsay Lohan indulged in a spot of quality time with her husband Bader Shammas and their son Luai, one, in Laguna Beach, California on Wednesday

A few days earlier Lindsay and Jamie were spotted wearing extravagantly splashy outfits while filming a scene from Freaky Friday 2.

Lindsay was decked out in a billowy red and black gown reminiscent of the 1980s, complete with a pair of black opera gloves.

Meanwhile Jamie, the daughter of Some Like It Hot heartthrob Tony Curtis and Psycho blonde Janet Leigh, modeled double denim.

The previous Freaky Friday movie was based on a popular novel by Mary Rodgers, whose father was The Sound Of Music composer Richard Rodgers.

Jamie and Lindsay played a mother and daughter who wake up one morning and discover to their horror that they have switched bodies.

Although plot details for the sequel have mostly been kept under wraps, Lindsay recently let a bit of juicy information slip.

'Well, I cant say much, but I am taking guitar lessons and I do have a daughter in the movie,' she revealed during a recent appearance on Good Morning America. 'Its going to be a really Freaky Friday. Much freakier than you would expect.'

She raved about the 'fantastic' experience of working with Jamie again, saying: 'We all have so much fun. It's so great to have that...you always want to have a good time. Its just lot of love, lot of fun, lot of laughs. It's a great experience.'

During a snatch of off-time, Lindsay could be spotted lovingly watching her husband as he played with their little boy outdoors in Laguna Beach

Last week, she fired up her Instagram to share a few glimpses of the racecar themed first birthday party that she and Bader threw for their baby

In recent weeks, she has been spotted in Los Angeles with Jamie Lee Curtis, filming the sequel to their smash hit 2003 comedy Freaky Friday; pictured in the original movie

Jamie and Lindsay played a mother and daughter who wake up one morning and discover to their horror that they have switched bodies

Lindsay added: 'Jamie and I have stayed in touch over the years. They always say when you have a best friend, or someone you're really close with, and you cannot see them for years and years, but when you see them again, it's like you never separated. I think just always, women supporting women is such an incredible thing.'

After putting her infamous wild child phase behind her, Lindsay announced her engagement to Bader in 2021 and married him the following year.

She now leads a private life in Dubai, announcing her pregnancy in May 2023 just two months before welcoming little Luai into the world.

Last week, she did fire up her Instagram to share a few glimpses of the racecar themed first birthday party that she and Bader threw for their baby.

'I love you more than anything in this world,' she wrote. 'My son, my baby, my heart, my everything. I love you always always, forever and ever and beyond!'
The debut episode of Irvine Welsh's drama Crime left viewers 'curious' about the transgender plot, two months after the actor said criticism of JK Rowling left him 'deeply uncomfortable'.

The second series kicked off on Wednesday night with gender identity playing a strong theme.

This came as a surprise to some fans of the show as Trainspotting novelist Irvine, 65, had previously weighed in on the trans debate and Harry Potter author JK's views.

Rowling, 58, has previously been criticised for her staunch views on gender identity, but has always strongly denied accusations of transphobia.

The first episode followed Ray Lennox (Dougray Scott), who is battling to stay sober, having to investigate a sadistic serial killer who castrates their victims.

The debut episode of Irvine Welsh's drama Crime left viewers 'curious' about the transgender plot, two months after the actor said criticism of JK Rowling left him 'deeply uncomfortable'

The first episode followed Ray Lennox (Dougray Scott), who is battling to stay sober, having to investigate a sadistic serial killer who castrates their victims

The deaths are linked to an attack on Ray's former colleague (played by Rebecca Root) who is is going through gender transition.

The transition storyline mirrors with the detective's nephew Fraser who stuns their family by arriving at a family dinner in a dress.

In the tense scenes, Fraser's mum ranted: 'Kindly leave the table and return dressed properly. When he came out of me, they said: 'It's a boy. I'm a feminist and young idiots acting out are agents of the patriarchy attacking women's hard-won rights.'

Fraser hit back: 'I have a right to choose who I want to be. What's wrong with that?'

Viewers took to X, formerly Twitter, to comment on the gender identity storyline.

They wrote: 'Anyone else watching Irvine Welsh's Crime on ITV? Considering his Twitter output on the trans issue, curious as to where he's going with this plot.

'Just started watching new series of Irvine Welsh's Crime and guess what transgenderism is tonight's theme!!'.

Others praised the series opening and said: 'Irvine Welsh's Crime is brilliant. Excellent acting by Dougray Scott too.'

The deaths are linked to an attack on Ray's former colleague (played by Rebecca Root) who is is going through gender transition

The second series kicked off on Wednesday night with gender identity playing a strong theme. The transition mirrors with the detective's nephew Fraser

Viewers took to X, formerly Twitter , to comment on the gender identity storyline

This came as a surprise to some fans of the show as Trainspotting novelist Irvine, 65, had previously weighed in on the trans debate and Harry Potter author JK, 58

Rowling has previously been criticised for her staunch views on gender identity, but has always strongly denied accusations of transphobia

'Watching now and loving it'.

But viewers were disgruntled they had already seen the series on ITVX.

They wrote: '@ITV you have just announced a brand new series of Crime. Imagine my surprise when I realised I've already seen it, over a year ago. This is not a new series.'

Last month in an interview with The Times, Irvine said he doesn't know JK Rowling well, but loathes how she's been vilified.

He then offered his views on the ongoing debate about rights for trans people.

Irvine told the publication: 'Only women and trans people can have that discussion, but what I would say is that I don't believe trans rights should be advanced at the expense of 50 per cent of the population.'

Before the series aired, Irvine revealed why he wrote trans characters into series two.

Talking to Deadline at the Edinburgh TV Festival, he said: 'No one is comfortable in their own skin.

'We tried to let that permeate every single character, rather than just the trans character  They're all fighting in different ways to make their voices heard. They're all acting out in some way in this mad ship of fools.'

Irvine added they had a trans advisor on set during filming to ensure gender identity issues were handled 'sensitively' in the drama.
A Coronation Street star is 'set to make a shock return' to the soap just five months after he quit the soap.

Ciaran Griffiths, who played Damon Hay, has recently been seen on set at Media City in Manchester - despite ditching the cobbles after two years to move to Australia in March.

His character Damon is currently behind bars, serving six years in prison for armed robbery.

But his sighting on the cobbles poses questions if he is planning a return to the show, according to new reports.

A source told The Sun: 'Ciaran has been spotted on set in recent days - which will be a shock to fans because when he left the show, he went back to Australia.

A Coronation Street star is 'set to make a shock return' to the soap just five months after he quit the soap

Ciaran Griffiths, who played Damon Hay, has recently been seen on set at Media City in Manchester - despite ditching the cobbles after two years to move to Australia in March

'The actor returns to filming whenever the show needs to see him in prison.

'Because his character was sentenced to six years behind bars, that means its likely one unlucky cobbles resident is going to end up in prison - as Damon isnt getting out any day soon.'

In his final scenes, viewers saw Damon get arrested for armed robbery after being blackmailed into it by brother Harvey Gaskell.

While he had the option to turn on Harvey (Will Mellor) and remain free to live with his girlfriend Sarah Platt, instead he chose to plead guilty and accept the years in prison with Harvey as he knew the pair would never be safe.

The brothers had a brutal fight and then reunited with plans to relaunch their criminal empire from behind bars.

During his departure episode, Damon summoned Sarah (Tina O'Brien) to the prison where he then broke up with her.

As Sarah promised she would wait for him and that they could have a future together, Damon dropped a bombshell as he ended the relationship.

He confessed: 'I don't want you to do that because I asked you here to tell you to your face, we're finished.

His character Damon is currently behind bars, serving six years imprisonment for armed robbery (pictured in June 2023)

But his sighting on the cobbles poses questions if he is planning a brief return to the show

In his final scenes, viewers saw Damon get arrested for armed robbery after being blackmailed into it by brother Harvey Gaskell (Will Mellor)

The brothers had a brutal fight and then reunited with plans to relaunch their criminal empire from behind bars

During his departure episode, Damon summoned Sarah (Tina O'Brien) to the prison where he then broke up with her

'I'm doing you a massive favour. You turned my world upside down but if I loved you, properly loved you, I wouldn't have done the stuff I've done.

'You've got to walk away. I'm sorry, it's my decision. Goodbye Sarah.'

Damon then got up and walked away, as she was left devastated at the unexpected news.

And while fans didn't know it at the time, the breakup marked Ciaran's final scenes on the show.

Just a month after he quit the soap, Ciaran secretly married his girlfriend in front of the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

He decided to leave the cobbles after two years in the role and moved Down Under to be with his wife and son.

The soap star met his wife when touring in a theatre production in Australia in 2019, he briefly moved back to the UK to reprise his role as Damon in January.
After a decade, Miranda Kerr is bidding adieu to her Malibu abode.

The Australian model, 41, has sold her six-bed, six-bath house for $4.115 million, according to TMZ, after putting the property on the market for just under $4.5 million back in February.

Built in 1960, the 3,713-square-foot home sits steps from the beach, with a pool, spa, guest house and a patio with a gorgeous ocean view.

Other details include a hand-carved Balinese door and classic Malibu design features, like soaring ceilings and glass walls, as well as a large built-in granite fireplace.

Designed as an open-plan, the main living area has built-in bookshelves and includes an adjoining patio which is perfect for al fresco dining.

Miranda Kerr has sold her six-bed, six-bath house for $4.115 million after putting the property on the market for just under $4.5 million back in February

Kerr bought the house for $2.2 million in 2014 after her divorce from Orlando Bloom, to whom she was married from 2010 to 2013

The pool and jacuzzi connect to a guest house with elegant arch windows, a small kitchenette and bathroom.

During the renovation, Miranda added a tub and shower to the primary bedroom.

The Shawshank Redemption star James Whitmore owned the house until he died in 2009.

Kerr bought the house for $2.2 million in 2014 after her divorce from Orlando Bloom, to whom she was married from 2010 to 2013.

The pair co-parents 13-year-old son Flynn Christopher.

The real estate sale comes after Kerr and husband Evan Spiegel moved into a $180 million compound with their family.

Spiegel, 34, also listed one of his Brentwood homes for $20 million and another in the same area for $12 million

Kerr married the Snap Inc. co-founder CEO in 2017, and they share sons Hart, 6, Myles, 4, and 4-month-old Pierre.

The couple welcomed their youngest in February, shortly after Kerr listed the Malibu property.

Built in 1960, the 3,713-square-foot home sits steps from the beach, with a pool, spa, guest house and a patio with a gorgeous ocean view

Other details include a hand-carved Balinese door and classic Malibu design features, like soaring ceilings and glass walls, as well as a large built-in granite fireplace

Designed as an open-plan, the main living area has built-in bookshelves and includes an adjoining patio which is perfect for al fresco dining

The real estate sale comes after Kerr and husband Evan Spiegel moved into a $180 million compound with their family

Kerr previously credited regular 'date nights' and 'alone time' with keeping their marriage alive.

'We definitely both feel it's so important to have quality time with each other,' she told 90Honey Celebrity in April.

'So at night time for sure, we have that wind down time together after the kids are asleep,' added Kerr.
Ashley Roberts looked incredible in a mink coloured sheer dress with a corset-style bodice on Instagram on Wednesday.

She put on a very busty appearance in the floor-length number which featured only little cups on the cleavage.

With the raunchy outfit, Ashley, 42, carried a black briefcase-inspired handbag and she closed her eyes while flashing a backwards peace sign.

She wore the dress when she visited South American restaurant PIRANA London with friends last month.

Hours after posting, she slipped into a slinky black dress to leave the Heart Radio studios in London.

Ashley Roberts shared a very racy snap of herself wearing a lingerie-inspired outfit on Instagram on Wednesday

Later, she wowed in a slinky black dress in London worn with a pair of Adidas Gazelle trainers

The Heart FM presenter looked fabulous in the shiny silk-look dress which reached to her ankles

The presenter looked fabulous in the shiny silk-look dress which reached her ankles.

She accessorised with a small silver handbag and a black pair of sunglasses and a small gold necklace.

Ashley finished her look with a pair of Adidas Gazelle trainers and smiled as she headed home.

Ashley recently returned to Heart FM following enjoying some time during a lavish Caribbean getaway.

On the radio station, Ashley hosts her own show, Heart 00s, and serves as a showbiz reporter on Heart Breakfast.

Ashley flaunted her sensational figure in a skimpy black bikini, as she shared snaps from her holiday on social media.

She made a stylish outfit of the black two-piece bikini by pairing it with a lacy mesh cover-up that ensured all of her curves were still on display.

Whe she was out and about in London, Ashley accessorised with a small silver handbag and a black pair of sunglasses

The Dance Monsters presenter also wore a small gold necklace and looked up, distracted by something in the sky above her

Ashley recently returned to Heart FM, where she hosts her own show, Heart 00s, and serves as a showbiz reporter on Heart Breakfast, after a luxury holiday

In May, Ashley enjoyed a lavish break in Turkey with her tattoo artist boyfriend George Rollinson.

Ashley and George, 25, publicly enjoyed a 300-a-night stay at D-Resort Gocek after previously hiding their relationship.

Despite being together for the best part of a year, the couple did not go Instagram official until April.

Ashley and George also enjoyed a trip to Miami at the end of 2023 but made sure not to be photographed together.
Becky Hill wowed in a topless shot on Instagram on Monday as she whipped her white bikini top over her head and showed off her peachy bottom.

The English Believe Me Now? record maker, 30, flaunted off her enviable figure at the bow of a yacht on Ibiza.

She sat on her legs as she looked skyward in sizzling shots for her over 600,000 followers, whom she told of an upcoming set with her longtime collaborator French DJ David, 56.

When the boat reached its destination, Becky tried her hand at steering, standing unconvincingly at the helm.

Becky was joined on the trip by her fiance Charlie G, a DJ and music producer, and a large group of their friends.

Becky Hill, 30, wowed in a topless shot on Instagram on Monday as she whipped her bikini top over her head and showed off her peachy bottom - and later performed with David Guetta

The English Believe Me Now? record maker flaunted off her enviable figure at the bow of a yacht on Ibiza

She sat on her legs as she looked skyward in sizzling shots for her over 600,000 followers, whom she told of an upcoming set with her longtime collaborator French DJ David, 56

Becky captioned the post: 'PURE JOY!! i have my very own live set tonight supporting @davidguetta at @ushuaiaibiza! 7:40pm!

'Tomorrow im at @dannyhowarddj night djing in mallorca at 1am! ive managed to have a couple nights with my family & friends on the magic isle & weve been having lots of silly fun.

'Thanks for the boat day @ibizaconciergecompany! now back to work!'

Becky revealed she was the first female resident of Ibiza Rocks and the first live dance act of August's Ushuaia Ibiza event.

The star released her sophomore studio album Believe Me Now? in May, as a follow-up to her 2021 debut Only Honest On The Weekend.

The album peaked at number three on the UK charts and its fifth single, Right Here, peaked inside the top ten.

Becky, who announced her engagement to Charlie in 2022, confessed to The Sun that she will be delaying their wedding.

An alum of The Voice UK, Becky said in June: 'I was planning to get married this year but it is just too crazy. I have turned 30, I am releasing an album and I have an arena tour. I am going to America in October.'

Becky was joined on the trip by her fiance Charlie G (whom she is sitting on here), a DJ and music producer, and a large group of their friends

When the boat reached its destination, Becky tried her hand at steering, standing unconvincingly at the helm

Becky captioned the post: 'PURE JOY!! i have my very own live set tonight supporting @davidguetta at @ushuaiaibiza! 7:40pm!

'Tomorrow im at @dannyhowarddj night djing in mallorca at 1am! ive managed to have a couple nights with my family & friends on the magic isle & weve been having lots of silly fun'

Becky continued: 'My partner offered to organise the wedding but I want to be involved in the process, so we have decided to push it back a year.

'He wasnt too happy, but it is the right thing to do. I didnt want it to be really stressful. I know all weddings are stressful but I really wanted to make sure we enjoyed the planning and did it together.'

In June, Becky wowed in a strapless wine red jumpsuit at Hits Radio Live in Liverpool with Craig David also in attendance.

This came after Becky performed at BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend wearing a skimpy black bralet.
BBC Breakfast's Nina Warhurst hit out at her co-star Ben Thompson for dropping the 'c-word' live on air just minutes into the latest live show.

Ben and Sarah Campbell were sat on the famous red sofa when Nina joined them to discuss Buy Now, Pay Later schemes during Wednesday's episode.

During the segment, Nina informed viewers that debt charities and the new Labour government are calling for tighter rules to be put in place to protect those using the scheme.

As the conversation came to a close, Ben said: 'It's really important and dare I say it, people will be thinking about Christmas presents and things like that won't they? and spending now and maybe spreading that out?'

Nina quipped: 'I can't believe you've mentioned the c-word. It's August.'

BBC Breakfast's Nina Warhurst hit out at her co-star Ben Thompson for dropping the 'c-word' live on air just minutes into the latest live show

Ben and Sarah Campbell were sat on the famous red sofa when Nina joined them to discuss Buy Now, Pay Later schemes during Wednesday's episode

Ben added: 'It's not that long,' with Nina joking: 'Someone is more organised than I am.'

It comes after BBC Breakfast saw two presenters replaced in yet another hosting shake-up on Tuesday.

The programme's Monday to Wednesday presenters John Kay and Sally Nugent were nowhere to be found, as the breakfast show continues making changes for the Olympics.

Instead, Ben Thompson and Sarah Thompson took the helm on the red sofa and read Tuesday's top stories.

And that was not the only change - the BBCs coverage of the Olympic Games began at 6:45am on BBC One, which meant BBC breakfast was forced to switch to BBC Two mid-broadcast.

The breakfast show followed the same format last week and had been criticised for cutting out vital segments like the local news and weather reports.

Furthermore, Ben's replacement John is normally paired with Luxmy Gopal, rather than Sarah.

It comes after just Sally, 52, was replaced at the end of July , with Jon, 54, presenting with Nina Warhurst (right) instead.

It came just a day after fans of the show were left livid as Ben Thompson stood in for Jon on Tuesday.

The programme's Monday to Wednesday presenters John Kay and Sally Nugent were nowhere to be found on Tuesday, as the breakfast show continues making changes for the Olympics

And that was not the only change - the BBCs coverage of the Olympic Games began at 6:45am on BBC One, which meant BBC breakfast was forced to switch to BBC Two mid-broadcast

It comes after just Sally, 52, was replaced at the end of July, with Jon, 54, presenting with Nina Warhurst (right) instead

BBC Breakfast failed to mention why Sally was missing on Wednesday's show.

However, despite the change - some viewers felt Nina did a great job as she spoke about the tragic stabbings in Southport as part of the headline news.

Just days before, the programme was again pulled from BBC One halfway through the show and moving to BBC Two to make way for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games coverage.

But the show being cut short and downgraded to a smaller channel wasn't all that made fans fume.

Fans branded the interview segment 'disgraceful and disappointing,' as they claimed that Ben addressed the politician with an 'aggressive tone'.

The Chancellor was on the current affairs programme to talk about her decision to end winter fuel payments to millions of pensioners not on pension credit or other means-tested benefits, amongst other topics.

BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am
Good Morning Britain viewers slammed Ed Balls and Kate Garraway for their 'terrible' interview on Wednesday morning.

The ITV presenting duo, both 57, interviewed Conservative MP Robert Jenrick about the recent riots taking place across the nation.

Angry far-right mobs have brought chaos - 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 on Tuesday.

GMB brought Jenrick on to the show to discuss if the Conservative government have a part to play in the riots, but as the chat went on, audiences at home became frustrated as they noticed the hosts repeatedly cut off their guest.

Good Morning Britain viewers slammed Ed Balls and Kate Garraway for their 'terrible' interview on Wednesday morning

The ITV presenting duo, both 57, interviewed Conservative MP Robert Jenrick (pictured) about the recent riots taking place across the nation

One viewer fumed on social media platform X: 'It's a shame you didn't allow him to speak';

'Personally thought this was a terrible interview, Ed Balls and Kate didn't give the man time to answer, and Ed Balls smug face when they showed him the video of him in parliament';

'They didn't want to hear his answers, kept on interrupting him time and time. Rubbish reporting!';

'Kate and Ed are so awful. Can't watch them anymore so goodbye @gmb'

It comes after ITV 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'.

GMB brought Jenrick on to the show to discuss if the Conservative government have a part to play in the riot

As the chat went on, audiences at home became frustrated as they noticed the hosts repeatedly cut off their guest

One viewer fumed on social media platform X: 'It's a shame you didn't allow him to speak'

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.

'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.

It comes after ITV 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 and Yvette have been married since 1998 and share three children: Joe Balls, Mady Balls, and Ellie Cooper

'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.

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)'

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)

Violence erupted again in Belfast last night amid ongoing rioting around the UK

'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?'

'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
Shoppers normally consider branded groceries to be better quality than own-label versions.

But not at Costco - where its own Kirkland brand is very often the top choice.

It means that when the retailer stopped selling its Kirkland Signature chocolate chips, there was uproar on social media.

Fans were disappointed to learn that they had been replaced with Nestle's chocolate chips.

Costco bosses have blamed the soaring cost of cocoa for ditching the chips, which are used in cookies, other baked treats as well as for hot chocolate.

But they said the Kirkland version may come back once cocoa prices drop down.

Upset Costco customers took to Reddit after learning the news that the own-label Kirkland chocolate chips were being replaced with Nestle branded versions.

Costco has stopped selling its Kirkland Signature chocolate chips

The news emerged weeks ago when Costco added its infamous 'Death Star' - the discontinuation asterisk - next to the products in stores and circulated a detailed internal memo explaining the decision.

'Cocoa costs have risen nearly 200 percent compared to last year,' the memo reads.

It is thought that Nestle's much bigger buying power - as a global confectionary brand - it was able to secure a better price for cocoa.

Costco customers took to Reddit to proclaim their sadness but they appreciated the retailer's honesty.

'They are seriously the best chocolate chips ever,' one wrote.

' I use them for chocolate fondue, chocolate pudding, brownies, chocolate chip cookies, drinking chocolate.

'Anything chocolateit's my only go-to! Nothing else compares, and I tried to find something as good when they discontinued them a few years back.'

Another said: 'Well, I for one would cheerfully rather pay an extra buck fifty to buy Kirkland instead of Nestle, but I guess they've made their point.'That's good transparency from a reputable company.'

Some customers suggested buying own-label versions from rivals such as Aldi and Trader Joe's.

'Nestle semi-sweet chips are so gross,' one said.

'I recommend those disappointed to purchase your private label chocolate chips at Aldi, instead.'

Nestle Chocolate Chips will sell for $12.79 for a 72-ounce bag. The Kirkland Signature Chocolate Chips were around $1.50 more.

In the memo, Costco said it may bring them back when costs come down.

Meanwhile, Costco last month said it would be increasing its membership fee for the first time in seven years from September 1.

It is the first increase since June 2017, and will go up by $5 a year for the standard membership - taking it from $60 to $65 annually.

Costco's $1.50 hot dog and soda is a huge hit with members and has been the same price for decades. Sam's Club sells its version for $1.38

Costco is the biggest of the membership-based warehouse chains, with twice the sales of its Sam's Club even though they both have the same number of clubs.

But Sam's Club is stepping up its battle with Costco.

The retailers last year went head-to-head over a food court staple - Sam's Club undercut Costco's famous $1.50 hot dog and soda combo by 12 cents.

Now Sam's Club - Walmart's version of Costco - is finding new ways to take get new customers, either grabbing them from its rival or attracting Americans don't belong to a club.
It may be premature to assess Rahul Gandhi's effectiveness as the new Leader of the Opposition, but his initial performance is promising

It might be too soon to judge how well Rahul Gandhi is doing as the new Leader of the Opposition. The current budget session ends in just a few days, so we'll need more time to understand his leadership fully. But he has begun well.

After winning in the Lok Sabha polls, Rahul has been confident and strong both inside and outside the house, which is appropriate for an opposition leader.Nobel laureate Amartya Sen recently discussed Rahul's evolution since their days at Cambridge University. Sen underlined that Rahul has significantly matured over the years and underscored that his true test lies in how he steers the Opposition in Parliament.

Rahul stepped into the shoes of the Leader of the Opposition, a quarter of a century after his political debut in 2004. The Lok Sabha had been without a Leader of the Opposition for a decade, as no opposition party had the requisite number of members to stake the claim in the last two Lok Sabhas.During the recent budget session, the first after Rahul became the LOP, he took a vital leadership role in his party and the Opposition. Since becoming the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi has taken on more responsibilities.

He now leads and represents the Opposition's viewpoint on various subjects. This is a new role for him. He organised protests, delivered powerful speeches against the Modi government, and worked closely with allies to coordinate their efforts on the floor. He also focused on critical issues for the people and made himself more accessible.In the recent budget session, Rahul Gandhi, as the Leader of the Opposition, took on an important leadership role within his party and the Opposition. He has organised protests, delivered powerful speeches against the Modi government, and worked closely with allies. Additionally, he has focused on critical issues for the people and made himself more accessible.Rahul Gandhi's backroom office has a team of about twelve key members.

This team, led by General Secretary K.C. Venugopal and including Sam Pitroda, Sunil Kanugolu, K. Buju, B. Srivatsa, Manickam Tagore, Alankar Sawai, and Kaushal Vidyarthi, plays a vital role in managing Gandhi's political activities and election strategies, including logistics and social media.Rahul's growth and evolution in the political arena have transformed him into a more confident leader, marking a significant departure from his previous image as a reluctant politician.

This change has been compelling to witness in his political journey.Rahul finds it easier to take on a more assertive role now, with a substantial number of opposition members in the 18th Lok Sabha. Furthermore, the success of united allies in the 2024 polls has made them realise the power of unity.

When Rahul spoke as the Leader of the Opposition for the first time, he said, "While the government has political power, the Opposition also represents the voice of the Indian people. This time, the Opposition represents significantly more of the Indian people's voice than it did last time."Rahul Gandhi's criticisms of Prime Minister Narendra Modi have caused strong reactions from the ruling party. During Rahul's maiden speech as LOP, PM Modi spoke up for the first time in 10 years.

Modi accused Rahul of saying that the entire Hindu society is 'violent'. The Prime Minister stated, "Democracy and the Constitution have taught me to take the Leader of the Opposition seriously." Modi's responses to Gandhi's criticisms show an acknowledgement of the changed situation and the resulting tension in the Parliament.Rahul Gandhi has been speaking out against the Modi government's decision to arrest AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and JMM chief Hemant Soren. He opposes the BJP's attempts to silence opposing viewpoints.

This has caused increased tensions in Parliament for the ruling party.During his Lok Sabha campaign, Rahul Gandhi strategically showed a small red pocket edition of the Constitution at public meetings. This move effectively highlighted what he called the perceived threat to the Constitution from the BJP.

His use of the Constitution helped him gain support from reservation beneficiaries.

Despite being an M.P. for the past two decades, Rahul was not considered a good Parliamentarian. He asked only 99 questions, participated in 26 debates, and wasn't always present at critical times. Since 2014, he has been noticeably absent during budget sessions, only appearing occasionally. He also frequently went abroad, leaving the party in a crisis.Rahul is doing well as the Leader of the Opposition (LOP).

His success will depend on his political planning. He missed some opportunities in the past, like becoming a minister in Manmohan Singh's cabinet or strengthening the party as the Congress President.

However, his current role shows his potential. He must use this opportunity to face future political challenges confidently. Rahul's belief in the power of the LOP to raise its voice in Parliament gives hope and optimism to the party.

(The writer is a popular columnist; views expressed are personal)
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.
President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday visited the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi, the largest Hindu temple in the Pacific region.

Murmu is in Fiji from August 5-7 at the invitation of its President Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere. This is the first visit by an Indian head of state to the archipelago nation.

"In the final stop on her State visit to Fiji, President Droupadi Murmu paid obeisance at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi, which is among the largest Hindu temples in the Pacific region. President Murmu was warmly welcomed at the temple by members of the Fijian Indian community," the President's Office said in a post on X on Wednesday along with some pictures.

"President Droupadi Murmu @rashtrapatibhvn visited the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi, the largest temple in the Pacific. A special moment to celebrate the cultural connect between the two countries," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a post on X.

From Fiji, Murmu will travel to New Zealand and Timor-Leste. Her six-day three-nation visit aims to take India's Act East Policy forward, according to the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.

On Tuesday, she was conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the country's highest civilian award.

She also addressed the Fijian Parliament and the Indian community in Fiji.

Addressing the Indian community, she said "You came 145 years ago, yet you have not forgotten your culture, your language, your tradition, your lifestyle. That's why I thank you so much."

"With your hard work, discipline and values, you have been successful in all areas of life."

She also said that the Indian diaspora has been a living bridge in the process of strengthening the friendship between the two countries.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it has ordered 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.

The high court had on June 26 refused to interfere with the decision of the Chembur Trombay Education Societys N G Acharya and D K Marathe College imposing the ban, saying such rules do not violate students fundamental rights. It had said a dress code is meant to maintain discipline which is part of the colleges fundamental right to establish and administer an educational institution.

Taking note of submission seeking urgent listing of the appeal, a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said it has already assigned a bench for the matter and that it would be listed soon. Lawyer Abiha Zaidi, appearing for petitioners, including Zainab Abdul Qayyum, sought urgent hearing saying the unit tests in the college are likely to commence on Wednesday.

The top court is yet to conclusively decide the legality of such diktats issued by educational institutions. A two-judge bench of the top court, on October 13, 2022, had delivered opposing verdicts in the hijab controversy emanating from Karnataka. The then BJP-led state government had imposed a ban on wearing the Islamic head covering in schools there.

While Justice Hemant Gupta, since retired, had dismissed the appeals challenging the judgement of the Karnataka High Court which had refused to lift the ban, Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia had held there shall be no restriction on the wearing of hijab anywhere in the schools and colleges of the state. The present controversy stems from the decision of a Mumbai college.

The Bombay High Court trashed the plea against the ban and said the dress code was applicable to all students irrespective of religion or caste. The students, who were in the second and third year of the science degree course, had moved the high court, challenging a directive issued by the college imposing a dress code under which students cannot wear a hijab, naqab, burka, stoles, caps and badges on the premises. The students had claimed it was against their fundamental right to practice religion, the right to privacy and right to choice. The colleges action was arbitrary, unreasonable, bad-in-law and perverse, the plea had said.
Four Chinese tourists and a Nepali pilot were killed on Wednesday when a helicopter crashed in the mountains northwest region of Kathmandu. The crash took place in the border area between Kathmandu and Nuwakot districts.

A Nuwakot district police official said all five persons, including the pilot, on board the helicopter belonging to private airline, Air Dynasty, were killed in the crash.

The 9N-AJD helicopter crashed at the Shivapuri National Park area in Nuwakot district, some 30 km North-West of Kathmandu at around 2 pm local time, he said.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the helicopter was heading towards Rasuwas Syafrubesi area from Kathmandu with four Chinese passengers.

The chopper took off from Kathmandus Tribhuvan International Airport at 1.54 pm and lost contact with the tower just three minutes after take off, the CAAN said in a Press release. The chopper was piloted by captain Arun Malla. There were three male and one female Chinese nationals in the chopper.

The dead bodies were taken to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital at Maharajgunj in Kathmandu for postmortem, the airlines officials said. The crash comes just two weeks after a Saurya Airlines plane crashed at the Tribhuvan International Airport on July 24.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, proposing sweeping changes to the Act of 1995, is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The legislation circulated to members aims to bring about far-reaching changes in the present Act, including ensuring the representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims in such bodies. The proposed legislation omits Section 40 relating to the powers of governing Waqf Board to decide if a property is waqf property. The legislation is likely to be tabled in Lok Sabha on Thursday.

The Bill proposes to rename the Act as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995 and seeks to ensure the representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims in Waqf boards, as well as the inclusion of Aghakhani waqf and Bohra waqf in addition to the existing Sunni and Shia Waqf boards. The Bill aims to empower women by securing their rights in welfare from Waqf and includes a clause related to the welfare, maintenance of widow, divorced woman and orphan in such manner, as may be prescribed by the Central Government.

It also curtails the powers to declare a property as Waqf, stating that no person shall create a Waqf unless they are the lawful owner of the property and competent to transfer or dedicate such property. The Bill addresses the contentious provision related to the creation of waqf-alal-aulad, clarifying that it shall not result in the denial of inheritance rights of heirs, including women heirs, of the Waqif. The term Waqf will be clearly defined by a person practising Islam for at least five years and having ownership of such property.

According to its statement of objects and reasons, Based on the recommendations of the High-Level Committee under the chairmanship of Justice (Retired) Rajinder Sachar and the Report of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Waqf and Central Waqf Council and after having detailed consultation with other stakeholders, comprehensive amendments were made in the Act in the year 2013.

Despite the amendments, it has been observed that the Act still requires further improvement to effectively address issues related to the powers of the State Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties, removal of encroachments, including the definition of the waqf itself, according to a statement of objects and reasons of the Bill.

Sources said the governments priority was to get the legislation passed in the Lok Sabha unanimously, and it was also open to sending it to a joint committee for further discussion. There is a strong possibility that the government may agree to refer the Bill, which is being opposed by some Muslim organisations, to a parliamentary panel. Sources said some parties, which have been supportive of the governments agenda, have also expressed their reservation over the proposed legislation.

While the All India Muslim Personal Law Board has termed the proposed move as unacceptable, Opposition parties on Wednesday demanded that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill be sent to Parliaments standing committee for scrutiny after it is introduced, with the government saying the Business Advisory Committee will take a call after assessing the sense of Lok Sabha.

Notably, the department-related standing committees of Lok Sabha are yet to be constituted. The House may form a separate panel in the absence of the standing committee to scrutinise the Bill in case the government decides on such a course of action. In the last two months, the government has consulted about 70 groups on the bill, sources said. The bill is aimed at providing justice to poor Muslims and Muslim women apart from freeing Waqf properties from illegal occupation.

After lands owned by government entities, including Railways and defence, Waqf accounts for the third-highest number of properties. However, the value of these lands and the revenue generated do no match. With properties valued in crores, the annual revenue does not cross Rs 200 crore.

The bill also proposes the establishment of a separate Board of Auqaf for the Boharas and Aghakhanis. The draft law provides for the representation of Shias, Sunnis, Bohras, Agakhanis and other backward classes among Muslim communities. The bill also aims to clearly define Waqf as Waqf by any person practising Islam for at least five years and having ownership of such property.

Any government property identified or declared as Waqf property, before or after the commencement of this Act, shall not be deemed to be a Waqf property, reads the new Bill.

A significant change proposed in the bill is that any government property identified or declared as Waqf property, before or after the commencement of the Act, shall not be deemed to be a Waqf property. If any question arises as to whether any such property is a government property, the matter shall be referred to the Collector having jurisdiction, who shall make an inquiry and determine whether such property is a Government property or not and submit his report to the State Government.

The draft bill also gives the Collector a critical role in the declaration of Waqf properties, saying that such a property will not be declared Waqf until the district magistrate gives a report. Additionally, the bill proposes to curtail the sweeping powers of the tribunal, and the clause that stated that the tribunals decision is final is proposed to be omitted.

The bill requires every Waqf registered under the Act to file the details of the Waqf and the property dedicated to the Waqf on the portal and database within six months from the commencement of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2024. The registration of Waqf property must be through a central portal and database.

The Bill proposes decreasing the annual contribution from seven per cent to five per cent payable to the Board by mutawalli of every Waqf having a net annual income of not less than Rs 5,000. Under the Waqf Act, waqf refers to a property dedicated exclusively for religious or charitable purposes. There are 30 waqf boards in the country, controlling around 8.7 lakh properties spreading on around 9.4 lakh acres.
Jailed in Tihar in the alleged excise policy-linked money laundering case, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday reportedly wrote to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena informing him that Cabinet Minister Atishi will hoist the national flag at the city Governments Independence Day function on August 15.

Behind bars for long, the AAP chief has neither resigned from the Chief Ministers post nor named anyone as his replacement.

Kejriwal has written to the L- G from jail saying Atishi will hoist the Tricolour on his behalf on August 15, an AAP statement said. Every year, the Delhi Governments Independence Day function is held at Chhatrasal Stadium where Kejriwal has been unfurling the national flag and addressing the gathering since taking the reigns of Delhi.

However, Raj Niwas officials have claimed that no such letter has been received by Saxena. With regard to the AAP claim regarding the flag hoisting on August 15, it is clarified that the LG Secretariat has not received any such communication whatsoever, an official said.

Prominent among the senior AAP leaders who have been at the forefront of party activities since Kejriwal was jailed on March 21, Atishi holds various portfolios, including that of Water Resources.

Rebuffing the AAPs statement, BJPs South Delhi MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri requested Saxena not to allow Atishi to hoist the flag in Kejriwals absence.

In the Independence Day programme organised by the Delhi Government, only the Chief Minister can hoist the flag. If Kejriwal wants Atishi to hoist the flag, he should first resign from the post of Chief Minister and then nominate her in his place, he stated.

This is not a personal choice of the CM to nominate someone or any of his Ministers to hoist the national flag in his place, Bidhuri said.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said the letter proves that the AAP and its leaders were anarchists yesterday and remain anarchists today. Perhaps the framers of the Constitution and the national flag protocol never imagined that one day, there would be a stubborn Chief Minister who would not resign even after going to jail, he claimed.

The Delhi BJP chief called the letter anarchic and said, It brings back the horrific memories of his declaration to disrupt the Republic Day celebrations on Rajpath in 2014 by staging a sit-in protest. He said Kejriwal tarnished the dignity of Republic Day in 2014 and has now tarnished the dignity of Independence Day in 2024.

During the Independence Day celebrations of the Delhi Government, only the Chief Minister of Delhi can hoist the flag. If he is unable to do so, then traditionally, the LG will hoist the flag. From 1991 to 1993 and in 2014, when there was no Chief Minister in Delhi, the LG hoisted the flag, said Sachdeva, adding that if he wants his Minister Atishi to hoist the flag, then he should trust her and resign, allowing her to take the oath as the Chief Minister.

It is noteworthy that only Governors hoisted the national flag in States till 1973 which was changed by former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi who launched a campaign for the right to hoist national flag for the Chief Ministers. In February 1974, Karunanidhi wrote to the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi demanding the right to hoist the national flag on the Independence Day.
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.

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 (BNP) 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 BJP on Wednesday slammed as "anarchist" Congress leader Salman Khurshid's remarks that a Bangladesh-like situation could happen in India as well.

At a book release function on Tuesday night, Khurshid said that though "everything may look normal on the surface", what is happening in Bangladesh could happen in India.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who was also present at the event, said on Wednesday that he could not explain what Khurshid meant but the larger message that Bangladesh has given is about the importance of democracy and free and fair elections.

BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy castigated Khurshid and termed his remarks "anarchist".

"He is also a member of the CWC, this is an anarchist statement, and I think it is a kind of sedition. It's unfortunate that the Congress is resorting to such anarchist statements to hide its failure," Rudy said.

Reacting to Khurshid's remarks, BJP MP Sambit Patra claimed that Khurshid has given a warning on the behalf of his party.

"This is a serious issue. When we are witnessing such a situation in neighbouring countries, the main opposition party Congress wants the same situation in India," BJP MP Sambit Patra told reporters outside Parliament.

He asked if it was a warning from the Congress. He claimed some other Congress leaders have made similar remarks that protests and arson would happen in India just like Bangladesh.

"This is a warning Salman Khurshid has given on behalf of the Congress. Other leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, were present at the book launch event, in a way supporting what he said," Patra said.

"What is the thought process of the Congress party? Rahul Gandhi used to say there will be arson and riots in this country, there will be attacks on the PM, why was he saying that," Patra asked.

He also questioned Gandhi's "anti-India" comments during his foreign visits.

"Does the country's main opposition party want the same thing in India? They are not able to win elections, they are venting their frustration by promoting this kind of anarchy and pushing the country towards destruction. This conspiracy of the Congress has been exposed before the public," he said.

Asked about Khurshid's statement, Tharoor said, "You'll have to ask him exactly what he meant, it is not my job to comment on comments of others."

"Generally speaking, the larger message that the Bangladesh experience has given is the importance of democracy, of free and fair elections, transparency, engaging people in the system, making sure all institutions of democracy function fairly," he said.

"When that happens, there will be much less cause of this kind of thing to occur," he said.

Tharoor also said that India should stand with the people of Bangladesh.

"Let us hope they will have a chance to determine their own political destiny," he said.

"Student leaders who ignited the protest wanted Muhammad Yunus to preside over the transition... In the long term, I assume there will be elections," he said.

Bangladesh has plunged into uncertainty after weeks of violent street protests over job quota forced Sheikh Hasina to quit as prime minister and flee.

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament on Tuesday and appointed Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus as the head of an interim government.
Hindus are being selectively targeted in Bangladesh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath alleged on Wednesday and called for unity to fight the threat against Sanatan Dharma.

He also said construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya was not a destination but a milestone.

On the second day of his Ayodhya visit, the chief minister paid tribute to the first Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra president Brahmalin Paramhans Ramchandra Das on his 21st death anniversary.

Adityanath also unveiled a statue of Das.

Referring to the violence in Bangladesh following Sheikh Hasina's resignation after a months-long anti-government protest, Adityanath said, "Today, all the neighbours of India are burning. Temples are being demolished. Hindus are being selectively targeted and even then we are not trying to find those layers of history as to why such an unfortunate situation has arisen there."

"We should remember that the society that does not learn from the mistakes of history, its bright future is also eclipsed. There is a need to work together again to deal with the threat to Sanatan Dharma. There is a need to fight together for this," he added.

Referring to the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya after "500 years of wait", he said it was not just a destination but a milestone.

"This milestone has to be continued further because the strength of Sanatan Dharma gives a new momentum to all these campaigns," he said.

"We have to establish a society free from casteism, untouchability and discrimination for which Lord Shri Ram dedicated his entire life," the chief minister added.

Earlier, Adityanath placed a floral tribute on Das' memorial. Several devotees also joined him in paying homage to Das, who was a prominent leader of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.

Adityanath reached the memorial at Saryu Ghat/Ramkatha Park and paid his respects.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Uttar Pradesh minister Surya Pratap Shahi, and Mahant Suresh Das.

Adityanath also visited Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra chief Nritya Gopal Das Maharaj and enquired about his wellbeing.
Trending in China | Steamed Wuchang fish

(People's Daily App) 16:13, August 07, 2024

Steamed Wuchang fish is a classic Wuhan dish that combines fresh fish with mushrooms, bamboo shoots and chicken soup. The steaming process preserves the fish's natural flavor and nutrients and infuses it with the rich aromas and flavors of the accompanying ingredients. (Video source: Kuaishou)

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
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City of Derry Airport has been ranked one of the top UK airports for providing service excellence for passengers with reduced mobility in the latest annual report published by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The aviation regulator has said accessibility at UK airports has improved but there is more work to do.

The annual report found no UK airport had received a poor rating for accessibility performance over the last year, for the first time since 2020. The report ranked every UK airport with a passenger volume of more than 150,000 on their treatment of passengers with reduced mobility and disabilities.

Despite a greater demand for assistance services, 11 airports were rated very good for accessibility, 12 were rated good, and only five were rated as needs improvement, the CAA said.

Bristol

London Gatwick

Cardiff Wales

Liverpool

Norwich

The airports rated very good were Newcastle, Belfast City, City of Derry, Cornwall Newquay, East Midlands, Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick, Leeds Bradford, London Stansted, Southampton and Teesside.

The airports receiving a good ranking were Aberdeen, Belfast International, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Edinburgh, Exeter, Inverness, London City, London Luton, Manchester, Shetlands airport Sumburgh, and London Heathrow, which had progressed from its needs improvement rating in last years report after investing in staff to bolster its accessibility services.

Bristol, London Gatwick, Cardiff Wales, Liverpool and Norwich remained in the needs improvement category.

No airports were categorised as poor  the lowest category  for the first time since 2020.

The CAA encouraged airports to increase staffing and invest in equipment during winter when demand for flights is lower.

Welcomed the news, City of Derry Airport posted: "We are thrilled to announce that City of Derry Airport has been rated in the top category of 'Very good' in the CAA's annual Airport accessibility report, and has also been outlined as one of the top two rated Airports across the entire UK having exceeded targets once again this year."

Anna Bowles, head of consumer policy and enforcement at the authority, said: Making aviation accessible to all is an important part of our work to protect the public and enable the aerospace sector.

Progress is being made, and not rating any airports poor this year is welcome, but theres more work to do, especially by those airports we have rated needs improvement in our report.

We will continue to work with the sector to ensure that standards are maintained and improved.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said: Everyone has the right to travel with dignity, and it is clear that more needs to be done to make accessible and enjoyable flying a reality for everyone.

I look forward to working closely with the UK Civil Aviation Authority and industry on this important matter.

I am pleased to see the Civil Aviation Authoritys new airline performance framework, to ensure airlines are providing passengers with the best possible service when they fly and are working to improve accessibility of the sector.
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A woman has been returned for trial to Derry Crown Court charged with the theft of more than 10,000 from Alcoholics Anonymous.

Niamh Bonner (54) of Central Drive in Derry appeared at a preliminary enquiry at the local Magistrate's Court today.

She faced two charges of the theft of cash totalling 10,500 from Alcoholics Anonymous in Derry on dates between August 1 2018 and December 1 2019.

She was also charged with one count of abuse of position in that she was in a position where she was supposed to safeguard the interests of Alcoholics Anonymous and she stole cash within the same dates.

It was accepted there was a case to answer and there were no contrary submissions.

Bonner said that she did not want to call any witnesses or make any statement at this stage.

She was returned for trial to Derry Crown Court on September 27 and released on bail.
Action Cancer, Northern Irelands leading, local cancer charity has announced Derry playwright and screenwriter Lisa McGee as Patron of Action Cancers breast screening service for women aged 40-49 and 70+.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer type among females in Northern Ireland accounting for 30% of all cancer diagnoses among women. The latest statistics state that 1,490 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and 312 die from the disease every year.

Screening takes place on board the charitys Big Bus, supported by SuperValu and Centra, which travels to 200 locations annually and at Action Cancer House in Belfast. This free service is not available anywhere else in the UK or Ireland.

Action Cancer screens around 8,000 women annually and detects approximately 6 cancers for every 1,000 screenings, with the majority of women receiving reassurance.

Lisa McGee recently attended a routine breast screening with Action Cancer and described her experience and why she has become involved with the charity: I found the mammogram to be slightly uncomfortable but not painful. The Action Cancer staff were so lovely and I was in and out in 15 minutes.

"I received my results letter a few weeks later and it was great to have that peace of mind that everything was clear. Ill now be called back to Action Cancer every two years for my routine screening until I reach 50.

As a busy working mum that travels a lot I know just how hard it is to find time in the schedule for an appointment like this but you have to make it a priority. Dont let it slip to the bottom of your to-do list. Screening saves lives, the sooner breast cancer is detected, the better the outcome.

I was blown away on learning about the range of cancer prevention, detection and support services that Action Cancer delivers to local people and how dedicated and caring the staff are in making a real difference. Im delighted to lend my support to this wonderful charity in becoming Patron of the breast screening service.

Donna McKernan, Advanced Practice Radiographer with Action Cancer, said: Breast screening is for well women who have no signs or symptoms and is the most effective tool for picking up cancers at an early and treatable stage. Action Cancer offers free screening to women aged 40-49 and 70+ and we encourage women aged 50-70 to attend for routine screening when called by the NHS.

Action Cancers CEO Gareth Kirk and the charitys Advanced Practice Radiographer Donna McKernan welcome new Patron Lisa McGee to the Big Bus alongside Desi Derby, Director of Marketing, Musgrave Northern Ireland.

We are at the forefront of breast screening technology, being the only unit in the UK and Ireland to currently utilise Tomosynthesis/3D breast imaging in the screening environment  a technology which has been proven to find very small cancers that can often be missed hiding in the breast tissue. When it comes to breast cancer, early detection saves lives.

A big thank you to Lisa McGee as her involvement with Action Cancer will greatly help us spread awareness of our life-saving breast screening service and encourage local women to make an appointment.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Action Cancer (@actioncancer)

Desi Derby, Director of Marketing, Musgrave Northern Ireland added: Our partnership with Action Cancer is now in its 24th year and our SuperValu and Centra retailers and their teams are as passionate as ever about raising funds to help deliver Action Cancers life-saving breast screening service on board the Big Bus.

"Many of us at Musgrave are huge fans of Lisa McGees work, especially Derry Girls, and it is wonderful to have her endorse this bespoke breast screening service that genuinely saves lives year on year.

Breast screening appointments are now available with Action Cancer. Women aged 40-49 and 70+ can book an appointment online here or by calling 028 9080 3344. Keep an eye on Action Cancers website for upcoming Big Bus visits.
There have been calls for a planned anti-immigration demonstration in Derry not to go ahead.

The demonstration, which claims to be about protecting children, is planned to take place on Friday evening at Dale's Corner in the Waterside area of the city.

The demonstration is the first to be held in Derry following several nights of violence in Belfast.

The Parades Commission has confirmed it has not received any notification of intention to hold a public procession for the date and location indicated.

Mayor of Derry, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr said she has received assurances from PSNI Derry City & Strabane Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney that police are working to protect migrant communities across the city and district.

The Mayor met with Chief Superintendent Kearney in response to recent acts of racist violence in Belfast, and social media posts circulating locally calling for an anti-immigration protest.

She urged the PSNI and relevant statutory agencies to put adequate measures in place that will protect communities and provide reassurances around the safety of the public.

The PSNI assured me that they will monitor the situation and have the resources in place to deal with any incidents and that they will be proactively engaging with all groups likely to be affected by any such protest.

A Sinn Fein delegation also met with the leadership of the PSNI in Derry amid concerns over the demonstration.

Foyle MLA's Ciara Ferguson and Padraig Delargy were joined by councillor Sandra Duffy in the talks.

Cllr Duffy said: We had a positive discussion with the PSNI who are in no doubt about our position that such violence is utterly unacceptable, and that the priority now must be to protect people and property and face down racism, violence and intimidation.

We will continue to monitor developments over the coming days and to work with all in an effort to prevent any violence or intimidation and to reiterate our solidarity, support and respect for our ethnic minority communities.

Cllr Duffy also confirmed that her party is seeking a recall of Derry City and Strabane District Council in the wake of the recent violence.

United Against Racism Derry spokesperson Davy McAuley said racist demonstrations are not welcome in the city.

The people who took part in the violence in Belfast need to take a long hard look at themselves. What we seen in Belfast wasn't about concerns over immigration but it was pure racism.

These people and their views will never be welcomed in Derry, Mr McAuley said.

People Before Profit councillor Shaun Harkin echoed those sentiments.

I would discourage everyone from attending that rally, Cllr Harkin said. Anyone who is intent on causing violence is not welcome in our city.

DUP Foyle MLA Gary Middleton said: In any democratic society there is a right to protest, but it must always be both peaceful and lawful. There have been disgraceful scenes in Belfast over recent days and there can be no justification for any attacks on people or property.

"Whilst there are people with genuine concerns which deserve to be aired, there have also been those on our streets who have nothing to offer society but hate, destruction and chaos.

It is very easy for calls to be made on social media, and anyone considering attending such a protest should reflect on whether they have any knowledge of those who are organising it and whether they feel it will actually make a positive contribution towards our city or the concerns they may have.

Meanwhile, a large crowd is expected to attend the Unity Against Division - Community Rally for Solidarity in Guildhall Square at 6.00pm this evening.
The Western Trust has expressed its deep concern over the recent violence against ethnic minorities across Northern Ireland and the UK.

Western Trust Chief Executive, Neil Guckian (OBE) has emphasised the Trusts steadfast commitment to the principles of equality, compassion, and respect for all.

Mr Guckian said: Our Trust is founded on values of equality and respect, with compassion and collaboration at the heart of everything we do. As healthcare professionals and members of the community, it is our duty to stand firmly against any form of hatred or discrimination.

The Trust recognises the invaluable contributions of its diverse workforce, particularly those from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Mr Guckian affirmed: To our staff, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds, I want to express our unwavering support. You are valued members of our team, and your safety, dignity, and well-being are paramount.

The Trust is dedicated to ensuring that all staff members feel safe and respected in their workplace.

No one should feel unsafe or unwelcome in their workplace or community, Mr Guckian continued. We are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is respected and protected.

As part of ongoing engagement on the matter, Mr Guckian met today with local MLAs and elected representatives to discuss the Trusts commitment and actions, and for them to hear directly from staff about their concerns.

The Trust has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination. Staff members are encouraged to report any behaviour that does not align with the Trusts values, and we are reaching out to staff through our well established internal channels and offering support with transport and any other issues should they arise.

In these challenging times, we must reaffirm our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and stand together as one community, Mr Guckian urged.

Our community should be judged by how we support each other including those feeling the most vulnerable. I want to pay tribute to our staff for their continued dedication and for upholding the values that make the Trust a place of care and respect. I would also like to acknowledge our local representatives who stood with us today to reassure our staff that we are with them at all times.

"Finally I would like to thank our local agencies, namely the PSNI, Derry City and Strabane District Council and our local community groups that are working tirelessly to support our staff, their families and the communities in which they live in.
Civic leaders, churches, trade unions and businesses have called for an end to rioting after three nights of violent disorder in Belfast.

The violence started in south Belfast after anti-immigration protests in the city.

Police and members of the public were attacked and businesses owned by those from ethnic minorities burned.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions will rally outside Parliament Buildings at Stormont on Thursday against the protests, ahead of a recall of the Assembly.

Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner of the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, said while she welcomed the Assembly recall, political leaders must do more.

To eradicate racism, we need a concerted response across society, with clear direction, commitment and action, she said.

We will only succeed in tackling racism and achieve racial equality in Northern Ireland if we have high level commitment and leadership from government.

We welcome the Assembly recall, but it is not good enough just to talk about it, as has been done before.

We need a new racial equality strategy with concrete, outcome-focused actions that are adequately resourced.

The new strategy must target the elimination of racial inequalities but must also tackle prejudicial attitudes, promote respect for difference and foster community cohesion.

Furthermore, we must see the introduction of effective hate crime legislation, the implementation of an effective refugee integration strategy, ethnic equality monitoring and race law reform.

Clerk of the General Assembly and general secretary of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Rev Trevor Gribben, said they join calls for an end to the protests and violence.

He said while lawful protest over the lack of social housing and underinvestment can be legitimate, he said much of what has been seen in recent days has been neither legitimate nor lawful.

Neither has it in fact been protest, but rather we have witnessed racist, hate-filled, wanton violence and destruction that has no place in civilised society, he said.

This cannot be excused or justified, only universally condemned, as there is no right to intimidate and incite hatred, and certainly no right to riot.

As tensions run high, I would appeal to everyone, those who are planning further street protests and those encouraging direct counter-protests, to think again.

This is a time to de-escalate the tension in our community, and not heighten it. Seeking the peace and prosperity of the city sometimes means setting aside our right to protest, or counter-protest, for the common good. This is surely such a time.

Join the rally at Stormont on Thursday  Stand against Racism  Unite in Hope! pic.twitter.com/P90CK2FOWg  NIPSA (@nipsa) August 6, 2024

Nipsa deputy general secretary Patrick Mulholland urged unity and an end to the deliberate division being sown in working class areas under racist banners.

The violence in recent days is reprehensible and causing real concerns  not only for those directly affected but also within our healthcare system where vital workers across all roles are reconsidering their employment, he said.

We must stand together against racism and support workers regardless of their skin colour, religion or ethnic origin.

Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland director of Amnesty International, urged politicians to call out paramilitary involvement in the disorder.

He was speaking after a senior police officer earlier this week said a paramilitary element is suspected.

Following PSNI acknowledgement of a paramilitary element involved in orchestrating recent violence, we now need politicians to call it out for what it is, a sinister campaign involving illegal organisations with a record of racially motivated violence going back years, he said.

Given the heightened threat level to Muslim, refugee and other communities in Northern Ireland, the police has a huge responsibility in the coming days to protect everyones right to life, and to uphold the human rights of all in our community to live their lives free of violence and intimidation.

Gordon Milligan, chairman of the Labour Relations Agency, said: The CBI, NI Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Institute of Directors, and Manufacturing NI utterly condemn the racist attacks and civil unrest that has been taking place in Belfast.

It is completely unacceptable that businesses and their employees are being attacked and livelihoods ruined.

We call on everyone in society to do all they can to defuse the situation before more people get hurt and Northern Irelands reputation as a good place to work and do business is damaged.
Children in Crossfire Chief Executive Richard Moore is encouraging local people to sign up for the charitys fourth annual Sunrise Cycle, which will take place on the morning of Sunday 29th September.

Gathering by the Foyle at Sainsburys Meadowbank in Derry from 6:30am, as the sun comes up cyclists will make their way along Lough Swilly to Swan Park in Buncrana and back.

Richard Moore said: I am very much looking forward to once again taking part in this early morning 26-mile challenge from Derry to Buncrana and back. While it is quite a challenging route, it is very manageable for cyclists of all ages and abilities. As previous years have shown, its also a lot of fun and a great way to support Children in Crossfire.

I encourage anyone whos interested to get in touch and sign up. You will be helping us to deliver lifesaving and life-shaping programmes for children, families and communities in Ethiopia and Tanzania. For example, we are currently building a project that supports young children in inner-city Dar es Salaam, Tanzanias largest city.

"We are ensuring the most disadvantaged children in those communities receive the education, healthcare and nutrition that all children deserve. Participants in the Sunrise Cycle will know they are fundraising to support this crucial work.

As always, we are very grateful to Gregory McLaughlin and GBS for their sponsorship. Gregory is a terrific friend of Children in Crossfire, and the Sunrise Cycle can only happen thanks to his kind support.

Event organiser Shauna ONeill added: The Sunrise Cycle is now in its fourth year and has become a fixture in Children in Crossfires fundraising calendar. This year, for the first time, we are selling specially branded Spiro long-sleeve performance tops to participants and the public, priced at 30.

This is always a well-attended and fun event. All participants will get free tea or coffee in Buncrana, as well as a hot breakfast in Patricias Cafe on Derrys quay at the end. I would urge anyone interested in taking part to sign up now or get in touch with me for a chat. Together, we will make this our biggest and best Sunrise Cycle yet.

To register for the Sunrise Cycle or purchase a cycle top, click here: LINK

Anyone wishing to find out more about the Sunrise Cycle should call Shauna on 028 7127 8947 or email shauna.oneill@childrenincrossfire.org
The Motorola Edge 50 makes a strong case for itself in the sub-30K market. Its premium design, durable build, and impressive HDR10+ display make it a strong contender in its price range. While the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition may not satisfy hardcore gamers, it handles daily tasks with ease and offers a smooth user experience. Hello UI is a notable highlight, providing a clean and customisable interface without unnecessary bloatware.

Motorola has unveiled the Motorola Edge 50, aiming to make a splash in the sub-30K mid-range smartphone market. This new addition to the Edge 50 series offers a mix of premium features and a robust build at an appealing price. With its sleek design, capable cameras, and high-end features, the Moto Edge 50 carries forward the Edge 50 familys signature style. Yet, it faces stiff competition from devices like the OnePlus Nord 4 (review), POCO F6 (review), and realme 13 Pro (review). So, does the Motorola Edge 50 deliver on its promises and stand out as the best value in its class? Ive tested it thoroughly to see if it lives up to the hype.

Motorola Edge 50 Review: Build and Design

The Motorola Edge 50 stands out in the crowded mid-range market with its sleek and opulent design. Its curved screen and rear panel provide an ergonomic feel, while the stunning vegan leather back enhances its aesthetic appeal. The phones aluminium frame is a rare find at this price point, making it one of the more premium builds in its segment.

Available in three coloursKoala Gray, Jungle Green, and Peach Fuzzthe Jungle Green variant features a vegan leather back, while the other colours use vegan suede material. The camera module, though protruding, transitions smoothly into the raised area without abrupt lines. I really enjoy the visual identity of the Moto Edge 50 series; it is instantly recognisable.

The phone is protected by Gorilla Glass 5, an upgrade over competitors like the OnePlus Nord 4, which uses Panda Glass. The under-screen fingerprint sensor is both speedy and accurate. Additionally, the Edge 50 boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing it to handle splashes and brief submersions with ease.

At just 7.5mm thick, the Motorola Edge 50 is the slimmest MIL-810H-rated curved smartphone in its segment, offering durability that surpasses rivals like the Realme 13 Pro and OnePlus Nord 4. This combination of build quality and premium aesthetics makes the Motorola Edge 50 an excellent choice for those seeking a well-built, stylish smartphone.

Motorola Edge 50 Review: Display

The Motorola Edge 50 features a captivating 6.7-inch pOLED display with 120 Hz refresh rate support and 1.5K resolution. With slim bezels and a 92.2% screen-to-body ratio, the phone delivers a nearly edge-to-edge viewing experience.

The display supports HDR10+, which allows for vivid and sharp HDR content with excellent colour reproduction and viewing angles. The addition of HDR support gives it a leg up over competing products that miss out on HDR, such as the Realme 13 Pro.

Under direct sunlight, the display can achieve a peak brightness of 1162 nits as per our tests, making it highly readable even in bright conditions. The Dolby Atmos stereo speakers further elevate the multimedia experience, providing immersive sound quality that complements the stunning visuals. Whether youre watching videos or playing games, the display and audio combination offers an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Performance, UI, and AI

Powering the Motorola Edge 50 is the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition, a chipset that aims to balance performance with efficiency. It comes with 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256 GB of UFS 2.2 storage. Im disappointed that Motorola didnt opt for UFS 3.1 storage, as competitors like the Realme 13 Pro and OnePlus Nord 4 have faster UFS 3.1 speeds.

While the chipset manages everyday tasks efficiently, it struggles with more demanding gaming scenarios. For games like Call of Duty: Mobile and BGMI, it only provides smooth frame rates at Medium settings. Additionally, I noticed some lag in the camera app, though performance is generally smooth in other areas.

In benchmark tests, the Edge 50 lags behind the OnePlus Nord 4 but performs slightly better than the Realme 13 Pro. It falls far behind the OnePlus Nord 4 in AnTuTu and GPU benchmark tests, which indicates that the Nord 4 is a better option for power users and mobile gamers. However, the Edge 50 does exceedingly well in PCMark Work which suggests that it is a great option for productivity-related tasks such as Excel sheets, Google Docs, and more.

CPU Benchmarks

GPU Benchmarks

On the software front, the Edge 50 runs on Hello UI, Motorolas custom user interface. The UI is modern, bloatware-free, and highly customisable, offering a clean and user-friendly experience. Notably, the device comes with a promise of 3+4 years of OS and security updates, respectively, ensuring relatively long-term software support.

AI Benchmarks

AI features on the Edge 50 are relatively limited, with the primary function being the generation of wallpapers via prompts. While this feature is neat, it doesnt add significant value to the overall experience. In our Digit AI-Q test, the Motorola Edge 50 scored 26/100. Although this is respectable for its price range, it falls short compared to the OnePlus Nord 4, which scored 33/100.

Are the cameras any good?

The Moto Edge 50 stands out as one of the rare smartphones priced under 30,000 to feature a telephoto camera. This inclusion allows the device to capture impressive portraits with a more flattering focal length for portraits without sacrificing on quality. The phone houses a 50 MP primary camera, a 10 MP telephoto shooter with 3x optical zoom, and a 13 MP ultrawide camera.

Portraits on this phone are stellar with exceptional skin tone accuracy, detailed textures, and a well-balanced dynamic range. However, the edge detection in portrait mode occasionally appears somewhat artificial, which can detract from the overall realism of the image.

The main camera excels in daylight conditions, producing vibrant and natural-looking photos with excellent dynamic range. It effectively captures the essence of scenes with rich colours and well-preserved details.

The 10 MP telephoto lens also performs admirably, offering clear and detailed images. On the other hand, the ultrawide camera falls short, particularly at the edges where it struggles to maintain detail and sharpness. The ultrawide shooter also doubles as a macro camera which clicks decent shots.

Ultrawide camera shots lack clarity in the corners

Colour consistency across the different lenses is an area that could be improved, as there is a noticeable variation in colour reproduction between the main, telephoto, and ultrawide cameras.

The 32 MP selfie camera, while capable of delivering sharp images with good colour accuracy, could benefit from better portrait edge detection to enhance the quality of selfie portraits. For video enthusiasts, the Moto Edge 50 supports 4K recording at 30 fps across all lenses. While the video quality is generally good, the dynamic range, especially in the main cameras footage, could be better. Highlights in videos are prone to overexposure, which impacts the overall video quality.

Motorola Edge 50 Review: Battery Life

When it comes to battery life, the Motorola Edge 50 delivers a decent performance. Casual users will find that the phone comfortably lasts a full day on a single charge. However, heavy users who frequently game or take photos might need to recharge midway through the day.

The device comes with a 68W charger that can quickly top up the battery from 0-100 per cent in just 56 minutes. Additionally, it supports 15W wireless charging, a feature that is relatively rare at this price point.

Should you buy the Motorola Edge 50?

The Motorola Edge 50 makes a strong case for itself in the sub-30K market. Its premium design, durable build, and impressive HDR10+ display make it a strong contender in its price range. While the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition may not satisfy hardcore gamers, it handles daily tasks with ease and offers a smooth user experience. Hello UI is a notable highlight, providing a clean and customisable interface without unnecessary bloatware.

The phones telephoto camera adds significant value, delivering high-quality portraits with accurate skin tones and dynamic range. However, the ultrawide lens and colour consistency across lenses could be improved. Overall, the Moto Edge 50 is indeed a bang-for-your-buck phone for most users, but gamers may want to consider alternatives such as the OnePlus Nord 4, or perhaps, the more powerful POCO F6.
Honor's IPO faces market hurdles amid Huawei's resurgence

Honor, once a reportedly discarded asset after its separation from Huawei, has defied expectations by carving out a strong position in the mid-to-high-end smartphone market. While the company is now eyeing an IPO, the challenging market conditions and intense competition make a successful debut uncertain.

Over three years ago, Honor, a sub-brand of Huawei, spun off due to stringent US sanctions that restricted Huawei's access to critical components like chips. To ensure its survival and avoid supply chain disruptions, Honor was sold to Shenzhen's state-owned assets supervision commission.

With around 8,000 employees and minimal resources, Honor started from scratch. There were rumors that one of the conditions for the acquisition was an IPO within three years.

Honor's valuation has surged despite market challenges, but its upcoming IPO faces hurdles. The saturated smartphone market and intense competition make it difficult to replicate Xiaomi's successful IPO in 2018, which was fueled by its IoT ecosystem narrative.

Honor has been aggressively working to establish its independent brand identity, distancing itself from its Huawei roots and shedding the label of being a "budget Huawei."

Industry insiders report that Honor has set an ambitious target of shipping 100 million smartphones annually by 2026, representing a 75% increase from 2023, a challenging goal amid the global smartphone market recovery.

Honor's performance in the Chinese market has been closely tied to Huawei's. When it was a sub-brand of Huawei, Honor held about 15% of the Chinese market. After the spin-off, its market share dropped to a mere 3%. But Honor has shown resilience, and with Huawei's absence, it has managed to regain some lost market share, reaching 18.1% in 2022.

However, Honor's market position has weakened since Huawei re-entered the smartphone market with its new Kirin chips and 5G devices in late 2023. Honor's market share in China declined from 17.1% in 2023 to 14.5% in the second quarter of 2024, dropping to fourth place overall. Huawei's resurgence has pushed it back into the number two spot in the Chinese smartphone market.

In the global market, Honor's market share is still categorized as 'Others,' not particularly prominent, and doesn't enjoy the same level of recognition as the well-known 'King of Africa,' Transsion, which has a strong reputation overseas, especially in emerging markets.
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India antitrust watchdog reportedly finds Apple abusing market dominance

India's antitrust watchdog may be nearing the conclusion of a two-year investigation into Apple, which has reportedly found the tech giant guilty of abusing its dominant position in the App Store marketplace.

The Times of India, citing unnamed sources, reported that according to a supplementary probe report by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), Apple is accused of abusive practices in its dominant position in the iOS app store market, violating Sections 3(4) and 4 of the Competition Act.

The CCI reportedly found that Apple has engaged in anti-competitive agreements with app developers as developers have no alternative but to accept Apple's terms, making the App Store an "unavoidable trading partner."

Sources said the CCI investigation reveals that Apple imposes restrictive conditions through its developer program license agreement (DPLA) and App Store review guidelines.

The report also highlights discriminatory practices, such as charging a 30% commission on many apps while exempting its apps, like Apple Music and Apple Arcade, from this fee. This mandatory use of Apple's in-app purchase system is seen as harmful to developers, users, and other payment processors, stifling innovation and market expansion.

In January 2022, CCI ordered an investigation into Apple over potential antitrust violations. The probe follows allegations by the non-profit group "Together We Fight Society," which claimed Apple was misusing its dominant market position by mandating its proprietary in-app purchase system and imposing a 30% fee on paid digital content. Meanwhile, Apple said its market share in mobile devices is significantly lower than that of other major competitors, such as Android.

In addition to Apple, Google has been a target of CCI for anti-trust investigations. CCI had imposed a substantial fine on Google for anti-competitive practices involving its Android operating system. The regulator accused Google of coercing device manufacturers into pre-installing its apps and search engine.

Additionally, Google is under scrutiny for its in-app billing system. The CCI is also investigating Google's practices related to news content to determine if there are any abuses of market dominance in this area.
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Life Pharmacy, part of the Uniphar Group, is celebrating welcoming its 100th Pharmacy in with a nationwide fundraising campaign to raise vital funds for the Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation.

As part of the Life100 campaign, Life Pharmacy teams across Louth will participate in sponsored activities within their local communities, from now until the end of August with the aim of raising the equivalent of 10,000 hours of support for families caring for children, up to the age of six, with severe learning disabilities associated with complex medical needs.

Herlihy's Life Pharmacy, Drogheda is among the participating Life Pharmacies taking part in the fundraiser.

Life Pharmacy is calling on its loyal customers and community members across Louth to show their support by making a donation to their local Life Pharmacy either in store or online, which will directly contribute to the essential services provided by the Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation. Just 18 will provide one hour of in-home nursing care and respite support  a lifeline for Jack and Jill families.

Speaking about the campaign, Mairead Reen, Chairperson, Life Pharmacy, said: We are delighted to welcome our 100th Life Pharmacy with a campaign that involves our entire store network as well as our customers. Through the support of our local Life Pharmacy teams and generous donations from the public, we have the opportunity to give the gift of time to families supported by the Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation. This campaign is not just about celebrating our growth, but also about making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most."

Deirdre Walsh, CEO of the Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation said: This is a remarkable community fundraising initiative to celebrate Life Pharmacy reaching this significant milestone of 100 member pharmacies across Ireland. Like Life Pharmacy, we are all about family and community, and with 416 families currently under our care across the country, the ambition of raising 100 hours of in-home nursing and respite care hours across each of the 100 pharmacies is substantial.

Read Next: 'Totally oblivious' - Dundalk Gardai send message to driver on their phone before seizing car

10,000 hours of care would make a truly meaningful difference in the lives of the families under our care for whom Jack and Jill is a lifeline. We would like to extend our gratitude to our friends at Life Pharmacy for this amazing support and are looking forward to seeing the community fundraising spirit kick into action throughout August, in support of local families.

The Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation is a nationwide charity that offers up to 100 hours of in-home nursing care and respite support each month to families with children under six who have severe learning disabilities and complex medical needs. In 2023, Jack and Jill supported 534 families across Ireland with in-home nursing care and respite support. Today, there are 416 families under its care and 3,040 families have been supported by Jack and Jill since 1997.

If you are interested in talking about what being part of the Life Pharmacy community could bring to your pharmacy, give Laura Garrett a call on 087 119 4374 or lgarrett@uniphar.ie
A Cork city councillor has said he believes concerns over the punctuality of local Bus Eireann services could be impacting on passenger numbers, claiming that reliability is a massive issue when speaking to constituents.

Labour Party councillor for the South East ward Peter Horgan was commenting on figures obtained by the party through a parliamentary question referred to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for reply.

The response stated that, as of the end of May, 7,083,261 passenger journeys on Bus Eireann buses were recorded on routes in the city and county so far this year. The NTA stated the 2024 figures have not been finalised and may be subject to some changes or revisions.

Last year in Cork, 17,832,418 bus journeys were made, up from 13,962,021 journeys the year prior.

Speaking to

The Echo

, Mr Horgan said he believes reliability issues could be hindering passenger numbers. [The figures are] showing that the progress that was made in the last number of years with high commuter numbers appears to be stalled, he said.

I would probably put that down to the concerns that the commuting public have with the reliability in Bus Eireann and what were hearing from Bus Eireann in terms of the lack of driver availability.

We all know the issues of ghost buses  reliability is a massive issue that comes up when I talk to people about utilising public transport, and specifically the buses, Mr Horgan said.

Im in favour of BusConnects in terms of front-loading elements to encourage more commuters because I do believe that to tackle the congestion in the city and suburbs we need more people on our buses, we need more services with our buses but to do that we need more drivers, clearly.

We need Bus Eireann to make sure that theyre utilising every available resource for them to hire drivers and we need to hear from drivers directly about what is impacting them leaving the profession or attracting new drivers to the profession because we cant countenance the congestion that engulfs the city daily when the schools are back, he continued.

I have a fear that if we dont get these problems solved and quickly, youre going to see more and more people opt for the private motor vehicle.

A spokesperson for Bus Eireann said the company carries out over 295,000 passenger journeys per week in Cork city, under contract with the NTA, across 25 routes.

We are pleased to report we saw significant levels of growth (over 20%) from 2022-2023. While we havent seen the same levels of growth from 20232024, we are still seeing positive (single figure) growth. Bus Eireann is committed to continued growth in Cork.

We acknowledge that despite expansion in passenger journeys in recent years, we are facing occasional service delivery challenges in Cork. Like other operators in the industry, we are dealing with short-term challenges for the recruitment of both drivers and mechanics, the spokesperson continued.

Bus Eireann have four more open days planned for August 22-25 at Rochestown Park Hotel in Douglas.

The spokesperson added that Bus Eireann has also established a training programme for B licence holders to convert to D licences in Cork, Dublin, Limerick, Galway, and Waterford.

Recruitment in Cork will remain a key priority, the spokesperson added.
Between 2020 and June of this year, University College Cork paid out a total of 748,678 in staff mobile phone bills, according to data released to The Echo under Freedom of Information (FoI) legislation.

Across the four full years from 2020, UCC paid an average of 224,577 each year for an annual average of 663 staff mobile bills.

In 2024, in the nine months from the beginning of the universitys financial year in October 2023, it has paid 94,709 for 679 staff phones.

According to the response to The Echos FOI request, approximately 20% of UCC staff are allowed paid mobile phones, where it is a requirement of their post, [for example] where the post involves work-related travel.

In 2020, 678 UCC staff had paid mobile phones, costing 243,678, while in 2021 it paid a bill of 198,257 for 645 staff phones.

The following year the same number of staff, 645, had paid mobiles and the bill came to 212,341.

Last year, the university paid 244,064 for 713 mobile bills, the highest amount UCC paid out over the five years covered in the FOI request.

In its request, The Echo asked for details of all expenditure relating to mobile phones incurred by University College Cork over the past five years.

The specific information being sought relates to the total expenditure on mobile phone bills incurred on behalf of UCC, as well as a detailed breakdown of who the users of the phones were, and how much each individual bill came to.

Responding, UCCs finance officer stated: I have decided to part-grant your request. They said expenditure on mobile phones is approved by the relevant school or functional unit of the university, subject to UCCs financial policies, procedures, and accounting processes.

Pointing out that the average UCC staff mobile bill for 2024 so far is approximately 140 per user, including rental plus data, they added that use of phones is fully compliant with procurement rules under the Irish Governments Office of Government Procurement (OGP).

They added that they had decided not to release the names of users of mobile phones, or to release details of individual bills, as I believe this would involve disclosure of personal information. Non-disclosure on these grounds is provided for under s37(1) of the FOI Act.

In January of this year, publication of UCCs 2022 to 2023 financial statement revealed that the university had identified an 11.2m deficit.

At the time, a UCC spokesperson said: The Higher Education Authority (HEA) has been notified. UCC has initiated a plan to address the deficit. UCC and the HEA have agreed to review capital projects in the context of the current work plan.

The fundamentals of UCC remain strong and the university is committed to returning to a surplus position, they said.
Union Hall RNLI was tasked to a yacht in difficulty outside Glandore harbour in Cork today.

Shortly after 9.30am members of Union Hall RNLI were called to a 28-foot yacht that had got into difficulty with two people onboard.

After losing power, the yacht began to drift and got tangled in lobster pots between Goats Head and Adam Island near the entrance of Glandore harbour in West Cork.

Members on board the ship then raised the alarm with the Irish Coast Guard.

Union Hall's volunteer crew under Helm Aodh ODonnell, were Hugh McNulty, Cathal Deasy and Nicola ODonovan, aboard the inshore lifeboat Christine and Raymond Fielding.

Once on scene, the volunteer crew assessed the situation and decided to tow the casualty to Union Hall, the nearest safe and suitable port, where the vessel was tied up at the pier, and the lifeboat returned to the lifeboat station.

Once a tow line was attached to the ship, and a crew member put aboard the yacht, the casualty was escorted to the port.

The conditions at sea were described as favourable, calm, with good visibility and a westerly wind.

Union Hall RNLI Deputy Launching Authority, Peter Deasy said: I want to thank the crew aboard the yacht as they did everything they should have done.

They were wearing lifejackets and alerted Valentia Coast Guard as soon as they lost power.

We wish them a safe onward journey from Union Hall," he added.

Today was a first for one of our volunteers, we congratulate Nicola on her first shout as a volunteer crew member at Union Hall RNLI, and wish her many years as a volunteer in Union Hall, saving lives at sea.

For safety advice on or near the water, please visit: www.rnli.org/safety.
By Grainne Ni Aodha, PA

An attack on a business on the Falls Road in Belfast has been condemned by a local MLA.

People Before Profits Gerry Carroll said locals defended the business from a group of young people on Tuesday evening.

Mr Carroll, who attended the scene, said the community is disgusted by the shocking incident.

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.

I would appeal to all young people and everyone else to desist from these types of attacks, and to stand for diversity, inclusion and a welcome west Belfast.

While tonights attack was awful, it is representative of a minority and I commend the immediate response of the community.

Scores of residents and community activists, including People Before Profit members, turned out to support the shop at short notice.

We must state in no uncertain terms that migrants and all minorities are welcome here and that we will not tolerate such attacks on our neighbours.
By Rebecca Black and Grainne Ni Aodha, PA

Six people have been arrested following a number of race-related hate crimes and disorder across Belfast.

They range in age from 14 to 41.

Police are investigating a number of incidents in Belfast on Tuesday night, including an attack on a boy by a group of youths and an attack on a middle eastern supermarket on the Falls Road.

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones described a third night of officers dealing with incidents such as assaults, criminal damage and arson in a challenging environment.

The unrest started in Belfast on Saturday following an anti-immigration protest, and continued on Monday evening in the south of the city.

PSNI officers man road blocks in Belfast following an anti-immigration protest outside Belfast City Hall on Saturday (Peter Morrison/PA)

It comes amid scenes of disorder in parts of England in recent days.

Four men linked to disorder on Saturday appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday.

Later, a 15-year-old boy is due to appear before Belfast Magistrates Court charged with two counts of riot and possession of a weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence.

Ms Jones said on Tuesday that officers received a report at around 6.10pm that a shop on the Falls Road had eggs thrown at it and that staff inside were being racially abused by a group of young people.

A 15-year-old boy was assaulted, and while he received minor facial injuries, I have no doubt this was a terrifying incident for the young victim, she said.

When police attended, a large group from the local community were outside to defuse the situation. A 14-year-old boy was cautioned for offences such as common assault, disorderly behaviour and criminal damage. We will review the evidence gathered and follow this up in the coming days.

Six people arrested as we dealt with a number of race-related hate crimes, hate incidents and disorder across Belfast last night, Tuesday 6th August.



Read more: https://t.co/qDUIn1biaR pic.twitter.com/i9dhvGpsdw  Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) August 7, 2024

Meanwhile, there was a report of a group of young people wearing masks in the Shankill area.

Ms Jones said officers attended and arrested three boys, two aged 16 and one aged 14, on suspicion of riotous behaviour. They remained in police custody on Wednesday morning.

We also dealt with a report of a hijacking in the Fingal Street area of west Belfast at around 8.45pm, followed by a report that a car was deliberately driven at a business in the Woodvale Road area, causing damage to the shutters. The suspects made off from the scene, she said.

Officers dealt with a number of reports of criminal damage to homes and cars in the Enfield Street, Woodvale Road and Rathlin Street. Three men, aged 26, 28 and 41 years, were arrested in connection to the Rathlin Street report on suspicion of offences including criminal damage, and they remain in custody at this time.

There were also reports of bins set on fire in the Newtownards Road area of east Belfast, which caused some traffic disruption for a period of time as the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service dealt with the fire.

Abdelkader Mohamad Al Alloush, owner of the Sham Supermarket on Donegall Road in Belfast, which was burned during disorder in the area following an anti-immigration protest on Saturday (Rebecca Black/PA)

Ms Jones described the scenes in recent days across Belfast as a disgrace which have no place in Northern Ireland.

We continue to engage with the groups affected by this criminality and hope these arrests show the community that we are taking action, she said.

Our Public Order Enquiry Team will continue to review footage to attempt to identify those involved, as well as those organising and orchestrating this disorder. As with any investigative process, the Police Service will follow the evidence and present it to the Public Prosecution Service.

I am appealing to the public directly: do not let these criminals hide in your community. Anyone with any information which can help identify any of these individuals should contact police.

We have set up a Major Incident Public Portal for people to submit information, images and footage.

Photos and footage, including CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage, can be shared with police through the Major Incident Public Portal at Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).
Almost 5,000 people have died in hospital emergency departments in the Republic over the last five years.

A new report from the Irish Medical Times shows over 1,000 of those deaths happened last year alone, 200 more than in 2019.

The report also said the number of people presenting at emergency departments increased by 110,000 in that time.

Medical journalist Michael McHale told Newstalk radio that certain locations have suffered more than others, with the number of deaths rising starkly.

In three hospitals, Beaumont Hospital, University Hospital Galway, Sligo University Hospital, they saw the number of deaths more than double in 2023 compared to 2019, so it is an issue that is affecting some hospitals more than others, Mr McHale said.

Cork University Hospital saw the highest number of deaths in its emergency department, at 158  up from 49 five years ago.

It was followed by St Vincents University Hospital with 479 deaths and St James Hospital with 344 deaths.

University Hospital Limerick, which has been under intense focus amid chronic overcrowding in its emergency department, saw 239 deaths during the five-year period. There were 226 deaths at University Hospital Waterford.

The rising number of deaths in the country's emergency departments is being attributed to a growing and ageing population.

The data was released to the Irish Medical Times under the Freedom of Information Act.
Paul Neilan and Eoin Reynolds

An on-the-run police killer, who argued that he was facing an "extreme and draconian" sentencing regime if he was sent back to prison in the North, has consented to his surrender, the High Court has heard.

Christopher Shane Frane (36) was sentenced to a minimum of six years for the manslaughter of a police officer in 2013 after a car crash.

The sentencing judge also gave Frane an Indefinite Custodial Sentence that requires him to remain in prison until he can prove he is no longer a danger to the public.

Originally from Limerick, Frane absconded from the North on January 24th this year when on day-release and was arrested in the Republic in February on foot of an extradition warrant.

Frane had pleaded guilty to the 2013 manslaughter of Constable Philippa Reynolds. Ms Reynolds (27) was the back seat passenger in a police patrol car that was struck by a stolen Toyota Landcruiser driven by Frane in February 2013 in Derry. She was killed instantly.

Philippa Reynolds was killed instantly in the crash

At the High Court on Wednesday, Frane took the stand to tell Mr Justice Paul Burns that he was now consenting to his surrender to the North.

Frane's barrister, Karen Quinlivan KC had previously argued before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath in June that to surrender her client would be a breach of his rights under the Constitution and Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

She said it had been accepted that Frane has shown genuine remorse and regret and had embraced opportunities for rehabilitation in prison.

However, before allowing Frane's release, the parole board in Northern Ireland must be satisfied that he no longer poses a risk to the community.

This requirement, counsel said, sets an "almost impossible standard" for him to meet and, despite his efforts, he has not been cleared for release.

Ms Quinlivan pointed out that a judge of the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland has described Indefinite Custodial Sentences as "extreme and draconian" and urged lawmakers to reconsider them.

He said it is a well-established principle that preventing risk to the public cannot be the only objective of sentencing.

A sentence requiring a person to prove they are no longer a risk to society would be unconstitutional in this jurisdiction, she said, and such a regime represents an egregious and fundamental defect in the sentencing regime in Northern Ireland.

A judgement had been due to be delivered in October but Frane will now be surrendered to the North inside a maximum of 20 days.
Stef McSherry will celebrate her 20th anniversary in business this year, during which time she moved country, developed an online programme prompted by the pandemic, and launched a weekly podcast.

And now shes focused on designing her own range of sustainable kids costumes, which she hopes will be ready in time for Christmas.

Lets just say this drama teacher is not one for standing still.

Originally from the UK, Stef met a Cork man on a ski holiday and moved here in 2008, and they were married in 2009.

At this point, she had already established Kinderama in the UK, and as she packed up her life, she brought the business with her, and it thrived.

We visit schools, creches and events all over Munster with our multi-activity programme, she said.

Essentially, I provide an alternative to parents who arent sure if they want to sign their kids up for a full term of dance, or drama, or music. Were about creating space for joy, laughter, self-awareness, and movement.

The emphasis is on fun, without having to work towards an exam or an end-of-year show.

I think theres enough pressure on children already  I dont want to add to it, said Stef.

So far, so fabulous but... she had an itch to scratch, and she couldnt ignore it.

Weve always had our costumes handmade for us for our classes, and for years weve had parents asking where they could get them, which got me thinking. But I wanted to create them in a sustainable way, so thats what Ive been trying to get over the line the past few months, said Stef.

She earned a place on the prestigious Acorns programme, designed to nurture entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland.

That was the first place I pitched my idea to people outside my own circle, and to get validation from them was what gave me permission to press the go button on the project.

I hope to have them available for Christmas, and each costume will come with a little story, all designed to help stimulate young peoples imagination.

Kinderama teaches 1,000 kids a week. Stef is mum to a boy and a girl, aged 10 and 12, making hers a busy household, but she somehow still finds time to co-host a weekly podcast called The Mum Mind Podcast.

I do that with another blow-in, psychotherapist Bethan ORiordan, and we address a different parenting issue every week. Those who listen will know were very honest, and keep things real!

I started my career working in radio so technically Im able to do this quite easily. We record it remotely on a Friday, I edit it and it goes out on a Tuesday, she said.

How does she do it all?

I love what I do and Im lucky as I can slot my work around my family life, working during school hours.

Stef is grateful for what she has in life, and felt a lot of sympathy for parents during the pandemic, so much so that she took her classes online.

It was like something took over and I realised all the stuff that I had available to me to entertain my kids, while some other parents had nothing. I had to act, and I still get messages from grateful parents saying that I got them through lockdown which means the world to me. Its nice to know you can make a difference.

Stef joined Network Cork in 2018: It was the first time Id met women who were supporting each other, as that is not always the case.

Its so helpful when you run your own business to have that back-up  you cant put a price on it. Ive made friends for life there.

Winning the Creative Professional award at the recent Network Cork Businesswoman of the Year awards was, she said, such a surprise.

Notably, she wore a Palestinian scarf (a keffiyeh) to the ceremony.

Im not an activist and Im not political but Im a mum, and I work with children and Im absolutely heartbroken by what Im seeing in Palestine. I knew there were going to be photographs taken, so I felt I had to make some sort of a statement.

Stef did more than that  just like during the pandemic, she felt compelled to step up and act.

We werent actually supposed to make acceptance speeches on the night, but something sort of took over me and I had to use the platform to highlight whats happening. I found my voice.

Living in Mallow, Stef regularly attends candle-lit vigils for Gaza in the town on a Sunday evening, along with the city centre marches on Saturdays.

I have the real privilege of working with children and its just so heartbreaking to see all those images of young people being massacred, she explained.

We all feel powerless and helpless, but every time we can speak up or attend an event to highlight whats happening, we have to seize that chance and be brave.
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.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) (C), Republican Whip Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN) (R) and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) (L) during a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on April 30, 2024. Andrew Harnik / Getty Images

The Center for American Progress (CAP) has periodically analyzed the statements of sitting members of Congress to find out if they deny that human-caused climate change exists.

CAPs most recent analysis of the 118th United States Congress determined that there are 123 elected officials who are climate deniers  thats 23 percent of the 535-member total, a press release from the progressive thinktank said.

Its definitely concerning, said Kat So, author of the report and energy and environment campaigns manager at CAP, as The Guardian reported. Its harder to deny the science when its so much more apparent that the climate is warming, that extreme weather is getting worse and happening constantly. Nobody can deny the science with a straight face, given everything.

Of the congressional climate deniers, 100 were state representatives and 23 were senators, all of whom influence public perceptions of climate change, as well as the direction and speed of the countrys climate policy, CAP said.

CAPs analysis found that, of the 90 newly appointed or elected congressional members, 18 are climate deniers.

Members of Congress are given publicly disclosed contributions, which in some cases may mean potential influence by the fossil fuel industry.

The report found that current climate deniers in Congress have received a total of $52,071,133 in lifetime fossil fuel campaign contributions.

While not every member who has received fossil fuel contributions is a climate denier, many are in positions of strong influence over environmental policy, the press release said. Current Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA), a climate denier, received $103,450 in oil and gas donations in the 2022 cycle, his second-highest industry contributor.

There has been a downward trend in climate deniers from the 116th Congress  when there were 150 outright climate deniers  to 139 in the 117th Congress and 123 in the current legislative assembly.

When asked what his party is doing to combat the climate crisis, GOP Representative Steve Scalise from Louisiana, the house majority leader, said, Weve had freezing periods in the 1970s. They said it was going to be a new cooling period. And now it gets warmer and gets colder, and thats called Mother Nature. But the idea that hurricanes or wildfires were caused just in the last few years is just fallacy.

In its report, CAP explored more subtle types of climate change obstruction, which could delay action and prolong the fossil fuel industrys influence on U.S. energy and environmental policy.

While climate denial is arguably the most commonly understood and historically used term, it only describes one type of an ever-widening array of tactics, CAP said.

Other rhetorical strategies used by some members of Congress include the redirecting of responsibility for tackling the climate crisis. For example, deferring U.S. greenhouse gas reductions until other nations act first, spreading misinformation and portraying climate activism as alarmist.

[T]he fossil fuel industry obstructs climate policy to bring in substantial profits, which it then uses to influence trade associations and members of Congress to continue obstructing meaningful climate action that would harm its bottom line. The fossil fuel industrys federal lobbying efforts totaled $133 million in 2023, the press release said.

An example of the fossil fuel industrys misinformation campaigns is the claim that offshore wind had caused whale deaths. An Unusual Mortality Event has been declared by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration since 2016, but the deaths were not attributed to offshore wind construction projects.

The deaths, instead, have been attributed to ship strikes and entanglements. These specific falsehoods have been traced back to AstroTurf groups, organizations, and elected officials funded by the fossil fuel industry to block the expansion of wind projects off the Atlantic coast, the press release said.

CAPs analysis provided an up-to-date definition of a climate denier in Congress as any member who makes any of six types of untrue statements concerning the existence, effects or causes of climate change, including statements reflecting the belief that climate change is a hoax or is not real, that global heating is merely a continuation of natural cycles and that climate impacts are positive for planetary health or actually beneficial to humans.

Research has shown that climate deniers disproportionately represent the American public, with as few as half of Americans sharing their viewpoint, reported The Guardian.

The amount of people at each end of the spectrum  alarmed and dismissive  were essentially tied back in 2013 but today there are three alarmed people for every one dismissive, so theres been a fundamental shift in how people see climate change in the U.S., said Anthony Leiserowitz, a climate public opinion expert at Yale, as The Guardian reported.

CAP pointed out the abundance of warning signs of the climate crisis, such as 2023 being the hottest on record, and that every three weeks the U.S. experiences an average of one billion-dollar extreme weather event.

The science is clear: Americans cannot afford to ignore the realities of global climate change. Climate-fueled extreme weather events continue to cost American lives and billions of dollars year after year, and the intensity and frequency of these events will continue to increase without action to address the causes of climate change, CAP 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.

Rather than culling animals amidst major disease outbreaks, a new study has found a potentially more effective alternative: vaccinations. At least thats what researchers confirmed for curbing bovine tuberculosis in badgers in research recently published in the journal People and Nature.

The findings are promising for not only protecting badgers but also cattle, which have been impacted by bovine tuberculosis, a disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium bovis. Badgers and cattle can spread bovine tuberculosis to one another as well as other animals, including pigs and goats.

Bovine tuberculosis can devastate farmers livelihoods, and hundreds of thousands of cattle and badgers have been slaughtered for bTB control in recent years, Rosie Woodroffe, project lead and a researcher at the Zoological Society of London, said in a statement. Everyone wants to see this disease eradicated. 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.

Researchers, along with farmers, partnered in a four-year pilot program to administer vaccines to badgers, rather than culling them, in hopes of curbing the spread of bovine tuberculosis. They vaccinated badgers at 12 farms in Cornwall and collected blood samples to test for the disease. The researchers also collected information from farmers about how effective the program was for curbing bovine tuberculosis and whether it was practical enough to continue doing.

In total, around 74% of badgers in the local area received the vaccinations. By the end of the program, the amount of badgers that tested positive for bovine tuberculosis decreased from 16% to 0%, according to the study.

Further research will be needed to determine whether the vaccinations also helped reduce the spread of bovine tuberculosis in cattle, but according to the study, participating farmers were happy with the results and wanted to continue with the vaccination program after the four years.

Badger culling in the UK has been in effect for around 11 years. As the BBC reported, by July 2023, around 210,000 badgers had been culled, along with more than 330,000 cattle, because it is considered too costly to treat affected cattle.

As The Guardian reported, the UK government is considering ending culling in favor of vaccinations, but there had been criticisms and concerns over whether it would be effective or affordable.

According to the study authors, their findings of using vaccines on badgers in a small area are promising as an effective, affordable and practical option to replace culling.

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, said Keith Truscott, senior author of the study and founder of Mid Cornwall Badger Vaccination Farmers Group. 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.

The study was a collaboration among the Zoological Society of London, Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Imperial College London, Natural England and farmers.
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.

As wildfires become more frequent and intense, theyre creating raging thunderstorms that fuel them even further, making them much more difficult to fight.

These pyrocumulonimbus clouds (pyroCbs) are caused when a wildfires intense heat and smoke create strong updrafts, where they condense and form clouds. Those clouds can then develop into fierce thunderstorms that ignite more fires, potentially miles from the fire that created them.

PyroCbs are such massive, almost volcanic-like eruptions, Rajan Chakrabarty, an aerosol scientist at Washington University in St. Louis, told Grist. These pyroCbs create their own fire weather. In addition to thunder, pyroCbs can create intense winds, hail and even tornadoes.

Last week, that breed of fire weather devastated Jasper, a town in Alberta, Canada, causing at least 25,000 people to be evacuated, reported The New York Times. They tried to put helicopters on it, Mike Flannigan, a professor of wildland fire at Thompson Rivers University in British Columbia, told the Times. They couldnt stop it, which is unfortunate because it led to a good chunk of the town burning down.

Wildfire smoke over Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada on July 24, 2024. ALBERTA WILDFIRE / HANDOUT / Anadolu via Getty Images

Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at the University of California, Los Angeles told Nature that the devastation seen in Jasper is in no way unique. The sobering reality is that these are not extreme outliers in some ways, he said. Weve seen a lot of fires behave like these ones in recent years, which I dont think is reassuring at all.

This year, wildfires in the U.S. have been much more devastating than expected. Californias wildfires are already five times more devastating than anticipated, and its Park Fire has become the sixth largest in the states history.

This trend tracks with the recent rise in reports of pyroCbs, and while that points to climate change as a catalyst, with better identification methods, it raises the question of the true extent to which climate change is responsible. They seem to be happening more frequently, Payton Beeler, an atmospheric scientist at Richland, Washingtons Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, told Grist. Whether thats a function of warming climate and better identification, I think its probably both. But the impacts seem to be very long-lasting and long-ranging.

David Peterson, a meteorologist at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Monterey, California, told The New York Times, The big open question right now is what is the role of pyroCbs in a warming climate system? What are the effects of pushing smoke up extremely high into the stratosphere, especially when smoke that high persists for a year?

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has selected Peterson to lead a five-year study on the effects of pyroCbs on Earths climate, which will begin in October.

The Naval Research Laboratory is working on a detection system for these fires. We need to develop a warning capability for fires that are more likely to generate pyroCbs because it means something different if youre fighting it, evacuating people, and predicting where the smoke is going, Peterson said. Right now were in catch-up mode.
Elizabeth City, N.C.  Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) recently received the Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL) 2024 Giving Day Award in the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) category for innovative use of the ScaleFunder online giving platform, making it the university's most successful Giving Day in six years.

Through eye-catching graphics and engaging language, ECSU attracted over 400 donors, raising $167,000 and surpassing the institution's $150,000 goal.

RNL, a leading partner in institutional fundraising, designed the ScaleFunder platform to assist institutions in their crowdfunding efforts. ECSU made creative use of this collaboration and customized its online giving campaign through direct mail and email solicitations from this established fundraising outlet. This strategy enabled ECSU to effectively engage alumni and other key constituents to make gifts in support of the university.

The award was presented to Johnyelle Lee, senior director of advancement services, during the RNL National Conference held July 23 in Dallas, Texas.

"I was excited that I had the opportunity to attend the conference to represent the outstanding work of our small but mighty team in University Advancement, Lee said.

The announcement was made during the Givey Awards session in the HBCU category, celebrating an HBCU that exemplified innovative design and overall success. Reflecting on the achievement, Lee expressed her team's delight in receiving the award. Winning this award is reflective of our team's collaboration, diligence, and zeal in ensuring that we remain committed to the advancement and future sustainability of our beloved institution," she said.

ECSU's success in the HBCU category underscores the university's commitment to innovative fundraising practices and dedication to supporting the institution's future. The recognition from RNL celebrates ECSU's achievements and sets a benchmark for other institutions striving to enhance their fundraising efforts.

Donors wishing to contribute to ECSU can visit Vikings Forward to donate, with additional giving options detailed here.
New York City has implemented a new drone warning system to alert residents to hazardous weather conditions. Unfortunately, the drones need to work on their Spanish.

A resident spotted one of the new drones issuing a flood warning on Wednesday to NYC neighborhoods in English and Spanish, but the Spanish words that came out of the drones were incomprehensible, according to a resident who shared a video on X .

As a Spanish speaker, I can confidently say that this is incomprehensible. The city couldnt find a single person who spoke Spanish to deliver this alert? https://t.co/uI9ERCuDmV  Josefa Velasquez (@J__Velasquez) August 6, 2024

The drones had no problem issuing a weather warning in English as it delivered the news about an incoming batch of heavy rainfall in a clear and distinguishable tone. The Spanish message, however, sounded like a robot speaking the language for the first time.

Zach Iscol, the commissioner of NYCs emergency management department, acknowledged the mistake on X in a reply.

Im very proud of the work our team has done preparing for this storm, but this shouldnt have happened and were going to make sure it doesnt happen again, Iscol wrote in a reply.
An innovative scanner created by an NYU computer scientist is allowing scientists to digitize previously isolated fossils in remote South American regions. Claudio Silvas PaleoScan provides a portable and affordable way to preserve and share collections of ancient impressions that may have otherwise been lost or smuggled.

Brazils Araripe Basin is lush with ancient fossils, some in unusually pristine condition. After a visit to the nearby Placido Cidade Nuvens Museum of Paleontology (MPPCN), where many of them are stored, Silva saw a labyrinth of floor-to-ceiling metal shelving units that was stacked high with piles of the most beautiful fossils hed ever seen from the Cretaceous period, as described by Smithsonian Magazine. The problem was the collection of insects, fish, turtles and pterosaurs from a distant past hadnt been digitized. And, given the regions limited funding, staffing and remote location (getting there requires a flight on a four-seater puddle-jumper of a plane), there wasnt much hope for remedying that.

Another problem the museum (and others like it) faced was illegal fossil trafficking. The Araripe Basin is a prime target for the ruthless exploitation of historical resources by smugglers and wealthier nations. Digitizing the fossils could help thwart that practice  both by providing virtual scans, which help offset the risk-benefit ratio for smugglers, and by creating a global dataset paleontologists could use to trace stolen artifacts to their source.

Empowering resource-poor museums and institutions to scan their own fossils and provide virtual versions of those fossils to the rest of the world, I think, would really help the scientific community, but also the institutions themselves, paleontologist Akinobu Watanabe with the New York Institute of Technology told Smithsonian Magazine.

Claudio Silva / PaleoScan

Silva, an expert in graphics visualization and geometry processing, saw an opportunity. He departed the MPPCN, promising to return in two years to help digitize their collection. Given the breadth of that task, it wouldnt have been surprising to hear some snickers or sarcastic jokes from staff after he took off on his flight back to the US.

The solution Silva created is PaleoScan, a low-cost, high-throughput scanner that he packed into large wooden boxes on his journey back to MPPCN in the summer of 2023. Designed to fill in the gaps between hard-to-reach fossil collections and the global community of paleontologists, the device produces high-quality 3D fossil reconstructions through cheap and relatively portable scanning.

Adaptable for different fossil sizes, PaleoScan uses a downward-facing camera on an automatic gantry. Its calibration board allows for batch scanning with simple correction for scale and offset camera positioning. The device costs less than commercial 3D fossil scanners, is more easily transportable than CT (computed tomography) scanners and is much easier to operate, even for the less technically inclined.

PaleoScans camera is mounted to a frame moving on two axes. It takes thousands of individual raw photos of a fossil under controlled light conditions, as described by Smithsonian Magazine. Meanwhile, the person operating it only needs to navigate a touchscreen (which, in videos, appears to be a repurposed mobile device).

Claudio Silva / PaleoScan

Once scanned, the photo batch is uploaded to the cloud for processing, where software stitches them together into highly detailed 3D models. The processed data can then be saved in a metadatabase and made available via an API for paleontologists around the world to study and share. (Think something like a GitHub for fossil enthusiasts.)

The researchers say the resulting reconstructions are validated as highly accurate. Museum workers can receive tutorial videos with step-by-step instructions for operating the scanner.

Over 200 unique fossils, using over a terabyte of high-quality data, have already been digitized at the MPPCN, and the response from the paleontology community has been receptive and enthusiastic. Researchers unrelated to the project were impressed with the scanner and hoped to get their hands on versions for other remote regions in Mexico and Chile. Some have requested an upgraded model with true 3D capabilities rather than the current two-axis version ideal for the Araripe Basins mostly flat fossils, something Silva says is already in the works.

For more on PaleoScans innovation and future, you can check out the research paper and Smithsonian Magazines in-depth write-up.
SpaceX's Crew-9 flight for NASA was supposed to take off on August 18, but the agency has just announced that its target launch date was moved to no earlier than September 24. The delay will give NASA and Boeing more time to finalize their plans for Boeing Starliner's return, the agency said in its announcement. What it didn't say was that while eight space ships can attach themselves to the ISS at one time, the US segment of the space station only has two docking ports that can accommodate astronaut capsules. Both of them are still occupied, since Starliner's supposed eight-day stay has stretched on for months.

NASA said that Starliner's ground teams are still analyzing the results of all the testing they've been putting the spacecraft through, including a recent hot-fire test. They still need to confirm if it's ready to bring back astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams back to Earth before a return flight could be scheduled. Boeing's first crewed Starliner mission launched in June and was only slated to stay for a few days to determine whether it was ready for regular flights to the station. However, five of its thrusters failed on its approach to the ISS, and only one came back online. The helium leak that forced Boeing and NASA to push back its takeoff in the past had worsened, as well.

In a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Boeing revealed that it took another $125 million in losses due to the Starliner's delayed return and the extensive testing that had to be conducted to ensure its readiness. The company said a few days ago, though, that it supports NASA's requests for additional testing and that it "remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew."
A detective was arrested for the death of his wife after he allegedly locked her body in their bedroom.

John C. Byrd III was charged with one count of second-degree murder. The 47-year-old confessed he strangled his wife, Elizabeth Byrd, to death, the Mesa Police Department in Arizona said, per 'ABC 13.'

According to a police report, Byrd told authorities that he suffered from "some mental issues lately and has been very stressed about his home and work life." He's accused of killing his wife and fleeing the scene on July 31.

The Arizona detective had a heated argument with his wife when "a switch just flipped" in him and he "put his hands around the victim's neck and strangled her to death," Byrd told police.

Byrd, who has no criminal history, admitted to authorities he locked her body in their bedroom so that their kids; ages 11, 8, and 4, would not see her.

After a friend reported Byrd's wife missing  as she did not attend a gym class  she was found dead on the bedroom floor in her home. The woman also picked up the couple's 3 children after Byrd, who was on medical leave at the time of the alleged murder, did not return home and the mother could not be found.

Byrd, a detective in Maricopa County's Family Violence and Trial West Bureau, suffered from stress and depression, according to court records.

Per 'Fox 10,' his family said since June Byrd complained of head pain and disorientation. The family shared he had an MRI scheduled.

According to Byrd's website bio, he was described as someone "passionate for domestic violence prevention."
The Tarrant County Sheriff's Office announced charges against a lawyer who allegedly provided funds to two inmates in an effort to obtain their unborn children for her adoption organization.

Jody Hall, a legal practitioner specializing in adoptions, is facing two felony charges for the Sale or Purchase of a Child. Officials claim she also provided financial incentives to the pregnant inmates.

RELATED: Los Angeles County Woman Accused Of Murdering Wife With Samurai Sword, Injuring Mother-In-Law In Broad Daylight

According to affidavits obtained by 'NBC 5,' investigators allege the 68-year-old conspired to acquire unborn children from two women incarcerated in Tarrant County jail. The sheriff's office identified Hall as an attorney managing Adoptions International LLC.

The affidavit alleges Hall, "discussed monetary agreements, provided various deposits into several inmates' commissary accounts...for the purposes of acquiring a child for the purpose of adoption."

Investigators described messages Hall allegedly sent to one inmate in March.

"Should be putting the money on your books today or tomorrow," Hall allegedly wrote. "Have you heard from your boyfriend?"

The affidavit continued, "I need to get him to sign a document stating that he may or may not be the father but if he is, he is relinquishing his rights... I can't give you any more if he's not willing to sign the paperwork."

Hall is said to have sent the inmate a total of $846.

When the woman decided to keep her baby and gave birth, Hall reportedly wrote, "Amber you're in jail and a drug addict...you are a scammer and I will be telling the prosecutor in your case all about how this family supported you since November."

In communications with another inmate starting in May, Hall allegedly said, "After you sign the relinquishment documents, we will add the same amount of money for 25 weeks wherever you go."

Documents show Hall sent the second inmate $250, later writing, "I have a family ready to go...you will love them. And you can have $2500 when you get out, or if you want me to put some on your books each week, I can do that."

Texas Penal Code 25.08(b)(4) permits adoption agencies to cover essential pregnancy-related expenses. However, the affidavit argues Hall's actions did not comply, "because Tarrant County jail covers all necessary pregnancy-related and living expenses for inmates."

Hall was apprehended last week in Hays County. Per 'CTV News,' she is currently out on bond.
Nigerian officials say they will treat the flying of foreign flags as a 'treasonable offense' after Russian flags were waved at anti-government protests in the country's north.
Animal rights activists have been fined nearly 60,000 after causing substantial damage to one of Arla's dairy distribution sites, in Hertfordshire.

Several members of the protest group Animal Rising broke into the Hatfield plant in September 2022, causing around 100,000 worth of damage in 20 minutes.

Following an extensive investigation, officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary arrested and charged 14 people with conspiracy to cause criminal damage.

One of these left the country following the expiration of their visa, and an arrest warrant remains outstanding.

St Albans Crown Court heard how some of those who entered the site used cordless drills to make holes in the tyres of lorries waiting at the yard, and bolt cutters to cut off the air valves in what was described as a planned and deliberate incident.

Eight people pleaded guilty to the offences and were sentenced across two hearings on 31 July and 5 August.

Five people pleaded not guilty to the offences and were convicted by a jury following a three-week trial.

According to the police, five further suspects were arrested in connection with the incident but failed to answer their bail having fled to the Czech Republic, and their arrest warrants remain outstanding.

On top of the collective sum of the fines, the thirteen defendants received sentences totalling 1,550 hours of community service and 168 months sentencing, suspended.

Inspector Donna Norris said the sentences passed down by the courts were a culmination of nearly two years worth of work in what had been a challenging and complex investigation.

These 13 defendants turned up at a dairy distribution centre and caused tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage," she explained.

"They were protesting around climate change and animal welfare and, regardless of your views on the topic, this does not mean you can take the law into your own hands and damage property belonging to others.

This was a pre-planned incident, with much of it filmed and posted on social media. I hope these sentences will reassure the public that we will deal with matters such as these seriously, and that offenders will be brought to justice.

Mo Metcalf-Fisher, external affairs director for the Countryside Alliance, welcomed the sentencing, calling the incident in September 2022 'blatant hooliganism and vandalism'.

He said: It is right that the offenders have been brought to justice. The public are sick and tired of seeing disruption caused by a handful of obsessive, warped activists and it is commendable that Hertfordshire Constabulary pursued this case so rigorously.

A spokesperson for Animal Rising blamed the previous Conservative governments harsh new protest laws and dubbed the sentencing as harsh.
There will be a further shortage in the supply of the enzootic abortion of ewes (EAE) vaccine Cevac Chlamydia until October, it has been confirmed.

Ceva Animal Health, which manufacturers the vaccine, said the product will not be available as anticipated for the main 2024 vaccination season.

There was initially a gap in supply of Cevac Chlamydia between June and August due to a batch being out of specification.

Ceva Animal Health submitted an 'out of specification' request to release the vaccine, but it said this was unsuccessful.

The next delivery of vaccine was anticipated at the end of August, but this has now been delayed until October, it confirmed.

The company added that it "deeply regrets any inconvenience caused to its valued sheep farmers this year".

EAE is caused by the bacteria chlamydia abortus and is responsible for 52% of sheep abortions in the UK.

Roy Geary, vice president at Ceva Animal Health, said: The manufacturing of vaccines is a complex process that involves stringent quality control measures and adherence to regulatory guidelines.

"There have been unforeseen manufacturing issues at our production facilities, which have temporarily affected the ability to meet the demands of the UK sheep market within the main seasonal vaccination period for EAE.

"As a responsible provider, we are actively addressing these issues to minimise the impact on customers.

Vets and farmers have been recommended by the firm to follow new EAE advice issued by the Sheep Vet Society and Sheep Antibiotic Guardian Group.
Pretty women are at a disadvantage in the workplace.

Attractive women are at a disadvantage in the workplace

Various studies suggest that attractive females are considered to be less trustworthy as well as more manipulative and 'dangerous' than average-looking employees.

Attractive females are also more likely to be objectified which can put them in positions where their career can be placed at risk.

The authors say this is a result of ancient evolutionary instincts as women see attractive members of the same sex as competition while men consider them to be desirable but potentially untrustworthy.

Professor Leah Sheppard, an expert at Washington State University, told the Harvard Business Review: "We suspect it's the trope of the evil seductress: a subconscious anxiety among people of both sexes that beautiful women will use their looks to manipulate people, mostly men."

San Diego State University behavioural analyst Dr. Wendy Patrick has emphasised that pretty women can overcome office biases against them.

She said: "Physical attractiveness is only one aspect of the workplace experience. Kind, compassionate, gracious behaviour can outweigh appearance biases."
Katie Price no longer has any fear of bankruptcy after going through the process twice.

Katie Price has insisted she's no longer afraid of bankruptcy

The 46-year-old former glamour model was first declared bankrupt in 2019 with debts of 3.5 million and she went through the same again in March 2024 after she was accused of failing to pay a 750,000 tax bill.

However, Katie is adamant she's no longer afraid of losing everything because she knows she will find a way to bounce back. In her latest book 'This Is Me', she explained: "Bankruptcy doesn't hold the same fear now I can see a way out of it. If material stuff is taken from me, I know I can earn it back. "

Katie went on to insist she would do anything to earn a living and would even consider making money as an escort.

She added: "I will get into escorting if I need to, not to sleep with the men, just for company. To be on their arm. I think I'd be good at that.

"My mum would tell me I need to work on my table manners first though. And by the way, that is a joke."

Katie found herself in trouble again last month when a warrant was issued for her arrest after failed to appear for a bankruptcy court hearing in London.

The TV star was in Turkey at the time and she has since explained she is "doing the best [she] can to rectify things".

In a post on her Instagram page, she wrote: "Whilst I'm currently aware of the severity of my current personal financial situation with my ongoing bankruptcy, I am today shocked that whilst away working for a documentary on corrective surgeries that I should find myself yet again headline news.

"The media in my opinion once again are trying to cause continued humiliation to myself and family. There are far greater and more pressing issues going on around the world that are more important and I'm sure most people are bored reading stories that are constantly misrepresented.

"I have I am continuing to to cooperate with the relevant people on matters to the best of my ability which will be addressed after my return from work." Katie - who has five children from previous relationships - insisted she isn't "embarrassed or ashamed" about her situation and is trying to get through "extremely challenging times".

She wrote: "I have to continue in my work in order to satisfy these bankruptcy orders which is all I am trying to do right now. I am however not running from matters and will continue to take matters with great seriousness.

"I am doing the best I cam to rectify things during extremely challenging times ... I will continue to work on my mental health disorders for the sake of my self and my family and do the best I can."
The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) recently called for immediate lawful formation of the interim government in Bangladesh and steps to restore law and order in Dhaka and around the country to restore normal economic activities at the soonest possible.

"We request all concerned to take necessary measures to this end," a DCCI statement said.

The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently called for immediate lawful formation of the interim government in Bangladesh and steps to restore law and order in Dhaka and around the country to restore normal economic activities at the soonest possible. Business leaders urged the chief of army staff Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman to secure business premises.

Economic operations have been significantly hampered due to the unrest, it noted.

"The recent anarchy has taken huge toll on our lives and economy, disrupting living and economic conditions. Unless measures are effective, supply chain disruptions will cause further damage to public sufferings," read the statement.

Voicing concern over the destruction, torching and vandalism targeting industrial and commercial establishments, business leaders urged the chief of army staff Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman to ensure the security of business premises.

International Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh (ICCB) president Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman stressed the need for putting an end to the destruction caused by miscreants.

Many garment factory owners are hesitant to open their units, especially in Ashulia, Bhaluka and Narayanganj.

Meanwhile, the Ethical Trading Initiative, a platform of trade unions, non-governmental organisations and companies, urged global buyers to appreciate the consequences of transitions and factory shutdowns amid the recent unrest and remain engaged with Bangladesh suppliers.

Both sides should work together to prioritise worker safety, especially of those commuting to and from work, an ETI statement said.

Companies should also adjust their expectations and purchasing practices to suit these unique circumstances, ensuring that order adjustments were practical and aligned with responsible purchasing practices recommended by the ETI, it added.

We continue to urge calm and urge all sides to come together peacefully so we can jointly move past this crisis. It is imperative that full democratic institutions be maintained and stability be assured; these are key steps in supporting the lives and livelihoods of Bangladeshi citizens and ensuring short term disruptions will indeed be temporary, American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) president and chief executive officer Steve Lamar said.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
San Francisco, California--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - WWT Opportunity Fund #1 LLC ("WWT") announced today that it has entered into a Support and Standstill Agreement dated August 2, 2024 with DIRTT Environmental Solutions Ltd. ("DIRTT" or the "Issuer") and 22NW Fund, LP ("22NW"). This press release is also being disseminated as required by National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take Over Bids and Insider Reporting Issues ("NI 62-103") in connection with the filing of an early warning report by Shaun Noll ("Noll"). Noll delegated power to vote and dispose securities owned by WWT, including the common shares of DIRTT ("Shares") held by WWT.

Pursuant to the Support Agreement, both 22NW and WWT have agreed to certain voting and standstill obligations, including voting in favor of the management director nominees at each of DIRTT's next two annual general meetings and voting in favor of the ratification of DIRTT's Amended and Restated Shareholder Rights Plan. Additionally, each of 22NW and WWT has the right to designate a director nominee at each of DIRTT's next two annual general meetings and are each subject to certain restrictions with respect to commencing a take-over bid for the Company. The Support Agreement also permits WWT to acquire up to 4,067,235 additional Shares through market purchases (representing approximately 2% of the issued and outstanding Shares), which will provide WWT with an opportunity to own the same number of Shares as 22NW and its joint actors. The Support Agreement otherwise prohibits each of 22NW and WWT from acquiring any additional Shares.

WWT owns own 53,370,894 Shares, representing approximately 27.8% of the outstanding Shares. Noll delegated power to vote and dispose securities owned by WWT, including the Shares held by WWT .

A report on Form 62-103F1 - Required Disclosure under the Early Warning Requirements will be filed by Mr. Noll in accordance with applicable securities laws and will be available under DIRTT's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

A copy of the Support Agreement has been filed under DIRTT's profile at www.sedarplus.ca

DIRTT's head office is located at 7303 - 30th Street S.E., Calgary, Alberta, Canada, T2C 1N6. Mr. Noll's principal business address is 1440 Plymouth Ave, San Francisco, CA 94112. WWT has a registered office at 1440 Plymouth Ave, San Francisco, California, USA, 94112.

Subject to the terms of the Support Agreement, Mr. Noll and/or WWT may purchase further Shares in ordinary course transactions on the TSX. Mr. Noll and WTT reserve the right to sell their Shares at any time.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219102

SOURCE: 22NW Fund, LP
Tunkillia Scoping Study Outlines Competitive Large-Scale Gold Operation

HIGHLIGHTS

Live webinar with Q&A hosted by Sharewise on Monday, 12 August 2024

Starts at 07:30 London / 08:30 Zurich / 14:30 Perth / 16:00 Adelaide / 16:30 Sydney

Barton Gold Holdings Limited (ASX:BGD)(FRA:BGD3)(OTCQB:BGDFF) (Barton or Company) is pleased to announce a live webinar hosted by Sharewise. Barton MD Alex Scanlon will discuss the results of a preliminary Scoping Study at the Tunkillia Gold Project (Tunkillia) and other ongoing corporate activities.

This study has outlined a prospective 5Mtpa bulk open pit mining and processing project, with:1

aveg annual production of ~130koz Au at a competitive A$1,917 / oz All-in Sustaining Cost ( AISC );

a higher-grade 'Starter' pit producing ~181,000 oz payable gold and 420,000 oz payable silver during the first 18 months of mining, with average operating cashflow of ~A$2,265 / oz gold; and

an NPV7.5% of ~A$512m, a 40% IRR and a 1.9 year payback period (all unlevered, and pre-tax).

Webinar details

The webinar will be hosted by Sharewise with live Q&A following a presentation, starting at 16.30 Sydney on 12 August 2024 (07:30 London, 08:30 Zurich, 14:30 Perth, and 16:00 Adelaide). Register free here.

Commenting on the Tunkillia Project, Barton MD Alexander Scanlon said:

"We are excited to outline a project that, were it in operation today, would rank favourably by AISC among Australian gold producers. We plan to continue systematically building up Tunkillia's potential over the next 12 months, targeting an optimised Scoping Study, while pursuing other higher-grade mineralisation in the neighbouring Tarcoola Goldfield.

"With over A$10m cash we are very well positioned to continue advancing our strategy and we look forward to discussing next steps with investors next week."

Authorised by the Managing Director of Barton Gold Holdings Limited.

For further information, please contact:

Alexander Scanlon

Managing Director

a.scanlon@bartongold.com.au

+61 425 226 649 Shannon Coates

Company Secretary

cosec@bartongold.com.au

+61 8 9322 1587

About Barton Gold

Barton Gold is an ASX, OTCQB and Frankfurt Stock Exchange listed Australian gold developer targeting future gold production of 150,000oz annually, with ~1.6Moz Au JORC Mineral Resources (52.3Mt @ 0.94 g/t Au), multiple advanced exploration projects and brownfield mines, and 100% ownership of the only regional gold mill in the renowned central Gawler Craton of South Australia.*

Tarcoola Gold Project Existing brownfield open pit mine within trucking distance of Barton's processing plant

Under-explored asset with untapped scale potential

Tunkillia Gold Project 1.5Moz Au Mineral Resources (51.3Mt @ 0.91 g/t Au)*

Scoping Study for initial 6 year, ~130kozpa Au mine

Infrastructure 650ktpa CIP process plant, mine village, and airstrip

Tarcoola ~40 person lodging to support mine operations

Tunkillia camp to support dedicated project team

Competent Persons Statement & Previously Reported Information

The information in this announcement that relates to the historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources as listed in the table below is based on, and fairly represents, information and supporting documentation prepared by the Competent Person whose name appears in the same row, who is an employee of or independent consultant to the Company and is a Member or Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) or a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO). Each person named in the table below has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and types of deposits under consideration and to the activity which he has undertaken to quality as a Competent Person as defined in the JORC Code 2012 (JORC).

Activity Competent Person Membership Status Tarcoola Mineral Resource (Stockpiles) Dr Andrew Fowler (Consultant) AusIMM Member Tarcoola Mineral Resource (Perseverance Mine) Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant) AusIMM Fellow Tarcoola Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021) Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant) AIG Member Tarcoola Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021) Mr Marc Twining (Employee) AusIMM Member Tunkillia Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021) Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant) AIG Member Tunkillia Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021) Mr Marc Twining (Employee) AusIMM Member Tunkillia Mineral Resource Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant) AusIMM Fellow Challenger Mineral Resource Mr Dale Sims (Consultant) AusIMM / AIG Fellow / Member

The information relating to historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources in this announcement is extracted from the Company's Prospectus dated 14 May 2021 or as otherwise noted in this announcement, available from the Company's website at www.bartongold.com.au or on the ASX website www.asx.com.au. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the Exploration Results and Mineral Resource information included in previous announcements and, in the case of estimates of Mineral Resources, that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates, and any production targets and forecast financial information derived from the production targets continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the applicable Competent Persons' findings are presented have not been materially modified from the previous announcements.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This document may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "expect", "target" and "intend" and statements than an event or result "may", "will", "should", "would", "could", or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information is subject to business, legal and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among other things, risks relating to property interests, the global economic climate, commodity prices, sovereign and legal risks, and environmental risks. Forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and opinions at the date the statements are made. Barton undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements for events or circumstances that occur subsequent to such dates or to update or keep current any of the information contained herein. Any estimates or projections as to events that may occur in the future (including projections of revenue, expense, net income and performance) are based upon the best judgment of Barton from information available as of the date of this document. There is no guarantee that any of these estimates or projections will be achieved. Actual results will vary from the projections and such variations may be material. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied upon as, a promise or representation as to the past or future. Any reliance placed by the reader on this document, or on any forward-looking statement contained in or referred to in this document will be solely at the readers own risk, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof.

1Refer to ASX announcement dated 16 July 2024.

*Refer to Barton Prospectus dated 14 May 2021 and ASX announcements dated 4 March and 16 July 2024. Total Barton JORC (2012) Mineral Resources include 824koz Au (26.8Mt @ 0.96 g/t Au) in Indicated and 750koz Au (25.4Mt @ 0.92 g/t Au) in Inferred categories.

SOURCE: Barton Gold Holdings Limited

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Shanghai, China--(Newsfile Corp. - August 6, 2024) - 1Data Technology, one of the global frontrunners in digital employee robots, has announced the completion of its Series B+ financing round, funded by leading investment funds in China.

1Data Shanghai Head Office

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/218985_cbe6dff2443d587c_002full.jpg

1Data Technology CEO Tommy Bian said, "This funding will expedite our R&D and strategic deployment in the large language model ("LLM") domain, further strengthening our leading position in the Supply Chain market (manufacturing, logistics, and retail). Our goal is to offer top-tier digital employee robot products and services to companies worldwide."

Previously, 1Data Technology completed its Series A, A+, and B rounds of financing in 2020, 2021, and 2023, respectively. These rounds introduced global leading investment institutions. In this round, both an existing and a new funder participated.

1Data focuses on the Supply Chain sector (manufacturing, logistics, wholesale, and retail). Leveraging its six core technologies, 1Data has built a hyper-automation platform, helping thousands of leading Supply Chain enterprises achieve business hyper-automation. By automating high-frequency repetitive business scenarios, 1Data creates a new office collaboration model of "white-collar employees + AI Agent / digital employees," allowing people to focus on high-value and decision-making tasks.

The company aims to become the world's leading digital employee robot company. Its products have evolved from single-function automation with Cuber 1.0 in 2020, to cross-function automation integration with Cuber 2.0 in 2022, and now to the Agent automation interface (powered by the LLM technology) with Cuber 3.0. 1Data is dedicated to provide the best digital employee robot products globally, helping customers and partners embrace globalization and supporting Chinese enterprises in expanding internationally.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218985

SOURCE: Plentisoft
During the Paris Olympics, "Jiangzhong Jianwei Xiaoshi Tablet", an iconic 30-year-old product from China, introduced a revolutionary "Digestive Hot Pot", swiftly capturing hearts and taste buds in Paris and bridging traditional Chinese medicine with modern fashion. This innovative dish incorporates herbal ingredients like hawthorn, dried orange peel, yam, and codonopsis pilosula for their digestive and stomach-soothing properties. As people enjoy this unique hot pot, they discover the charm of China's philosophy of "medicine food homology", where food and medicine complement each other. Chinese Olympic volunteers have warmly invited their international counterparts to try this delicious and healthy dish, which has swiftly become a must-try for foodies in Paris and sparked more conversations about Chinese culture.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806618309/en/

Olympic Volunteers Embracing "Medicine Food Homology" (Photo: Business Wire)

This is not the first time Chinese culture has captivated Paris. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France in 1964, cultural exchanges between the two countries have indeed flourished over the past several decades. The 2024 Paris Olympics indeed provides a valuable platform to further boost the cultural interactions and exchanges between China and France as they celebrate the 60th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties and the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism this year. Traditional Chinese medicine is a treasure of Chinese civilization, and its internationalization fosters cooperation in production and trade while bridging gaps in cultural understanding. Chinese brands like Jiangzhong Jianwei Xiaoshi Tablet are driving the internationalization of traditional Chinese medicine and promoting "medicine food homology" on the international stage.

Chinese brands possess unique innovation and development capabilities. With over 30 years of market experience, Jiangzhong Jianwei Xiaoshi Tablet has innovatively integrated traditional Chinese medicine's digestive benefits into everyday dining like hot pot and barbecue cooking. This approach not only satisfies culinary desires but also addresses digestive concerns, allowing people to enjoy food without compromise. From the Olympic spotlight to daily dining, Jiangzhong Jianwei Xiaoshi Tablet demonstrates the enduring power of traditional Chinese medicine, consistently meeting consumer demand for healthy food. This brand is poised to become a healthful choice for people both in France and on an international scale, enhancing global wellness and fostering positive cultural exchanges.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806618309/en/

Contacts:

Yang Ziqi

yangziqi12@crjz.com
KKR today announced the acquisition of WPP's full equity position in FGS Global ("FGS" or the "Company"), the preeminent global communications and public affairs consultancy. The proposed transaction is supported by FGS management, builds on KKR's initial minority investment in July 2023, and values FGS at US $1.7 billion. The investment underscores KKR's deep conviction in FGS's vision and strategy to be the leading global communications advisor helping clients navigate the increasingly complex stakeholder economy. As a result of the transaction, the equity interest of FGS's over 500 employee shareholders will be approximately 26% of the company.

Since KKR's initial minority investment in July 2023, FGS has benefitted from KKR's access to global resources, network and expertise in building best-in-class global enterprises. Both KKR and FGS are focused on enhancing the Company's growth and extending its leading position as a global advisor to Boards and C-suites in business-critical situations. FGS will continue to be a partner-led firm, managed by the existing leadership team. KKR is committed to supporting FGS's ambitious growth plans while ensuring FGS continues to uphold the highest standards of independence, client confidentiality and trust.

Philipp Freise, Partner and Co-Head of European Private Equity at KKR, stated: "Our investment in FGS reflects our strong commitment to strategic partnerships, where we provide long-term capital and global resources to entrepreneurial teams and world-class businesses. We strongly believe in FGS's strategy and leadership and have been pleased with our partnership since our minority investment in July 2023. In today's increasingly complex stakeholder ecosystems, the value of FGS's insight, advice and execution is increasingly essential for organizations to navigate uncertainty and achieve their goals. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and helping FGS realize their vision as a global category leader."

Alex Geiser, Global CEO of FGS, said: "Our enhanced strategic partnership with KKR is a clear signal of their confidence in our ability to scale and enhance our position as the preeminent consultancy helping leaders successfully navigate the stakeholder economy. With KKR's reinforced support, we're poised to accelerate our growth, attract and empower new talent, and further our commitment to value creation that benefits all our stakeholders, especially our clients and employees. Together, we are ideally positioned to lead growth and innovation of the industry as FGS moves into its next phase as a standalone firm."

Roland Rudd, Global Co-Chair of FGS added: "I would like to thank WPP for their longstanding partnership. I am particularly grateful to WPP Chair Roberto Quarta and WPP CEO Mark Read for their support as we have grown FGS Global into what it is today. I am delighted that KKR is now backing FGS to become the undisputed global leader in our sector."

KKR is making the investment in FGS primarily through its European Fund VI, an $8 billion fund that invests in the growth of leading businesses by providing access to KKR's extensive network and business building resources. Recent investments from the European Fund VI include OHB, nexeye, Superstruct and Accountor. One of the core strategies of KKR's European Private Equity team is investing alongside founders, entrepreneurs and corporates to provide flexible capital for strategic partnership transactions. The FGS investment follows a similar thematic pursued through KKR's 2021 investment in ERM, the world's largest global pure play sustainability consultancy.

The transaction is expected to close by the end of the year, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR's investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR's website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about the Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group's website at www.globalatlantic.com.

About FGS

FGS Global is the preeminent global communications and public affairs consultancy, with approximately 1,400 professionals around the world, advising clients in navigating complex stakeholder situations and reputational challenges. FGS was formed from the combination of Finsbury, The Glover Park Group, Hering Schuppener and Sard Verbinnen Co to offer board-level and C-suite counsel in all aspects of strategic communications including corporate reputation, crisis management, and public affairs and is also the leading force in financial communications worldwide.

FGS offers seamless and integrated support with offices in the following locations: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Beijing, Berlin, Boston, Brussels, Calgary, Chicago, Dubai, Dublin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Houston, Kingston, London, Los Angeles, Munich, Paris, Riyadh, San Francisco, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo, Toronto, Washington, D.C., South Florida, Vancouver and Zurich. The firm is headquartered in New York.

FGS is consistently ranked a Band 1 PR firm for Crisis Risk Management and for Litigation Support by Chambers and Partners. For the second year, FGS was ranked #1 Global M&A PR firm by Deal Count and Value in 2023 by Mergermarket.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240806369145/en/

Contacts:

KKR

Julia Leeger/ Miles Radcliffe-Trenner

media@kkr.com

FGS Global

Dorothy Burwell Jennifer Loven Dirk von Manikowsky

mediaglobal@fgsglobal.com

WPP

Chris Wade Richard Oldworth

press@wpp.com
Contact:



Oak Fund Services (Guernsey) Limited

Company Administrator

Attn: Hannah Crocker

Tel: +44 1481 723450

Eurocastle Releases First Half 2024 Financial Results

Guernsey, 7 August 2024 - Eurocastle Investment Limitedhas released its interim management statement for the quarter ended 30 June 2024.

IFRS NAV of 21.59 million, or 21.56 per share (21.63 million, or 21.66 per share as at Q1 2024).

of 21.59 million, or 21.56 per share (21.63 million, or 21.66 per share as at Q1 2024). ADJUSTED NET ASSET VALUE ("NAV") 1 of 11.08 million, or 11.07 per share2 (11.09 million, or 11.11 per share as at Q1 2024).

Q1 2024 NAV Q2 Cash Movement Q2 FV Movement Q2 2024 NAV 'm  p.s. 'm  p.s. 'm  p.s. 'm  p.s. New Investment Strategy - Greece 0.10 0.10 0.15 0.15 0.02 0.02 0.27 0.27



Legacy Italian Real Estate Funds 0.07 0.07 - - (0.01) (0.01) 0.06 0.06 Net Corporate Cash3 17.73 17.76 (0.15) (0.15) (0.05) (0.10) 17.53 17.51 Legacy German Tax Asset 3.73 3.73 - - - (0.01) 3.73 3.72 IFRS NAV 21.63 21.66 - - (0.04) (0.10) 21.59 21.56 Additional Reserves4 (10.54) (10.55) - - 0.03 0.06 (10.51) (10.49) Adjusted NAV







11.09 11.11



- - (0.01)



(0.04)



11.08



11.07



Ordinary shares outstanding 998,555 1,001,555

As at 30 June 2024, the Company's assets comprise:

17.5 million, or 17.51 per share, of net corporate cash3 which is primarily available to fund new investments under the New Investment Strategy.



Advances of 0.3 million, or 0.27 per share, made in relation to the Company's first investment under the New Investment Strategy.



A tax asset of 3.7 million, or 3.72 per share, representing amounts paid in relation to additional tax assessed against a German property subsidiary. The Company is currently appealing the assessment through the German fiscal court and expects the matter will eventually be resolved in the Company's favour.



Residual interests in two legacy Italian Real Estate Fund Investments with a NAV of 0.1 million, or 0.06 per share, where the underlying apartments are now all sold with both funds currently in liquidation.





BUSINESS UPDATES

New Investment Strategy -





Eurocastle has now launched a Luxembourg regulated fund, European Properties Investment Fund S.C.A., SICAV RAIF (the "Fund"), to make opportunistic real estate investments across Southern Europe. The Fund completed its first close on August 6, 2024 for 10 million, with the Company committing 8 million alongside a 2 million commitment from its JV partner. The Fund is now being marketed to potential investors with a target fund size of 100 million. In addition to generating attractive risk adjusted returns on its share of any investments made by the Fund, Eurocastle also anticipates receiving a 60% share of fees and promote generated from external investors with the remaining 40% paid to the JV Partner. Such amounts include annual management fees representing 1.5% of the Fund's net asset value and promote of 20% of the Fund's total net profit (subject to a return hurdle of 8% per annum). The Company sees the Fund as an attractive opportunity to earn enhanced returns on the capital it invests while also building a meaningful base for future investments5.

In addition, Eurocastle's first acquisition under its new strategy, being part of a boutique retail complex in an affluent part of Athens, has now met all closing conditions and is intended to be purchased by the Fund in September. The asset is being acquired from one of the largest Greek banks out of a distressed situation. Eurocastle's strategy is to lease-up the last 20% of the building which is currently vacant and then seek an exit in the open market. The total expected investment is approximately 6.3 million. In parallel with executing this first investment, the Company has been underwriting a number of additional opportunities.

Additional Reserves - During H1 2024, the Company reduced these reserves from 10.7 million to 10.5 million, or 10.49 per share, with the reduction of 0.2 million reflecting reserves being utilised in line with anticipated costs. As at 30 June 2024, of the total Additional Reserves of 10.5 million, 5.4 million related to the legacy German tax matter with the balance of approximately 5.1 million in place to allow for future costs and potential liabilities while the Company establishes in parallel the New Investment Strategy. The Board anticipates reviewing the appropriate level of reserves once it has further clarity on the amount of commitments received by the Fund.





Income Statement for the Quarter ended 30 June 2024 and First Six Months of 2024 (unaudited)

Income



Statement Income



Statement Q2 2024 H1 2024  Thousands  Thousands Portfolio Returns Legacy Real Estate Funds unrealised fair value movement (8) (18) Fair value movement on Investments (8) (18) Other income 12 17 Interest income 176 322 Total income 180 321 Operating Expenses Manager base and incentive fees 20 40 Remaining operating expenses 203 430 Total expenses 223 470 (Loss) for the period (43) (149)  per share (0.04) (0.15)

Balance Sheet and Adjusted NAV Reconciliation as at 30 June 2024 and as at 31 December 2023









New Investment Strategy



- Greece











 Thousands







Legacy Italian Investments







 Thousands







Corporate















 Thousands 30 June 2024



Total











 Thousands 31 December 2023



Total





 Thousands Assets Other assets 266 - 20 286 210 Legacy German tax asset - - 3,727 3,727 3,727 Investments - Legacy Real Estate Funds - 63 - 63 82 Cash, cash equivalents and treasury investments: Cash and cash equivalents - - 17,874 17,874 13,951 Treasury Investments - - - - 4,236 Total assets 266 63 21,621 21,950 22,206 Liabilities Trade and other payables - - 339 339 425 Manager base and incentive fees - - 20 20 41 Total liabilities - - 359 359 466 IFRS Net Asset Value 266 63 21,262 21,591 21,740 Liquidation cash reserve - - (5,081) (5,081) (5,185) Legacy German tax cash reserve - - (1,701) (1,701) (1,728) Legacy German tax asset reserve - - (3,727) (3,727) (3,727) Adjusted NAV 266 63 10,753 11,082 11,100 Adjusted NAV ( per Share) 0.27 0.06 10.74 11.07 11.12





NOTICE: This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of the Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

For investment portfolio information, please refer to the Company's most recent Financial Report, which is available on the Company's website).

Terms not otherwise defined in this announcement shall have the meaning given to them in the Circular.

ABOUT EUROCASTLE

Eurocastle Investment Limited.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things, future commitments to sell real estate and achievement of disposal targets, availability of investment and divestment opportunities, timing or certainty of completion of acquisitions and disposals, the operating performance of our investments and financing needs. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "potential", "intend", "expect", "endeavour", "seek", "anticipate", "estimate", "overestimate", "underestimate", "believe", "could", "project", "predict", "project", "continue", "plan", "forecast" or other similar words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions, discuss future expectations, describe future plans and strategies, contain projections of results of operations or of financial condition or state other forward-looking information. The Company's ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is limited. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, its actual results and performance may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecasted results or stated expectations including the risks regarding Eurocastle's ability to declare dividends or achieve its targets regarding asset disposals or asset performance.

1 In light of the Realisation Plan announced in 2019, the Adjusted NAV as at 30 June 2024 reflects additional reserves for future costs and potential liabilities, which have not been accounted for under the IFRS NAV. No commitments for these future costs and potential liabilities existed as at 30 June 2024.

2 Per share calculations for Eurocastle throughout this document are based on 1,001,555 shares, unless otherwise stated.

3 Reflects corporate cash net of accrued liabilities and other assets.

4 Reserves that were put in place when the Company realised the majority of its investment assets in 2019 in order for the Company to continue in operation and fund its future costs and potential liabilities. These reserves are not accounted for under IFRS.

5 References to the Fund in this document do not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security and may not be relied upon in connection with the purchase or sale of any security. Any such offer would only be made by means of formal offering documents, which would govern in all respects.
Agreement will see NewBridge Pharmaceuticals act as a multi-country distributor in four countries across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for Kyowa Kirin International's current rare disease portfolio

Bringing access to medicines within a population of 100 million across Algeria, Iraq, Libya and Jordan, the agreement supports Kyowa Kirin's International's commitment to geographical expansion to meet the needs of more patients across the international region

Kyowa Kirin International (KKI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd. (TSE:4151, Kyowa Kirin) and a Japan-based global specialty pharmaceutical company, announced today the signing of a Promotion and Distribution Agreement with NewBridge Pharmaceuticals for the distribution of its existing rare disease portfolio across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

Under the terms of the agreement, NewBridge will commercialise CRYSVITA (burosumab) for the treatment of X-Linked Hypophosphataemia (XLH) and Tumour-Induced Osteomalacia (TIO), as well as POTELIGEO (mogamulizumab) for two subtypes of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), a rare non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

As part of the agreement, NewBridge will exclusively distribute the two products across MENA countries of Algeria, Iraq, Libya and Jordan. KKI and NewBridge also hope to collaboratively address a number of challenges facing the rare disease community in the region by supporting disease awareness, improving time to diagnosis, and improving access to innovative treatments indicated for rare and orphan diseases.

Jeremy Morgan, President of KKI, commented: "At Kyowa Kirin our purpose is to deliver life-changing medicines and make people smile. We are pleased to be entering into this agreement with NewBridge Pharmaceuticals who have a clear mission to transform the lives of MENA patients and their families. With a commitment to delivering life changing value for people impacted by under-diagnosed and under-served diseases, this agreement is key to ensuring patients living with XLH, TIO and CTCL are able to access the medicines they need, and is another positive step on our journey."

"Given the high prevalence of rare diseases in the MENA region, I am personally inspired and proud that we at NewBridge are building on our existing partnership with Kyowa Kirin with the addition of their rare disease products to our region," added Joe Henein, President CEO of NewBridge Pharmaceuticals. "This collaboration totally aligns with our mission to provide access to new therapies for patients, aiming to alleviate their suffering and enhancing their quality of life."

About CRYSVITA (burosumab)

CRYSVITA (burosumab) is a recombinant human monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds to the protein fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). This has the impact of inhibiting the action of FGF23, allowing phosphate regulation in the body to be restored.1

About POTELIGEO (mogamulizumab)

Mogamulizumab is a first-in-class humanised mAb directed against CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), a protein consistently expressed in both mycosis fungoides and Sezary syndrome2-4 once mogamulizumab binds to CCR4, it increases attraction of immune cells from the immune system to destroy the cancerous cells.5

About Kyowa Kirin

Kyowa Kirin aims to discover novel medicines with life-changing value. As a Japan-based Global Specialty Pharmaceutical Company, we have invested in drug discovery and biotechnology innovation for more than 70 years and are currently working to engineer the next generation of antibodies and cell and gene therapies with the potential to help patients affected by severe and rare diseases. A shared commitment to our values, to sustainable growth, and to making people smile unites us across our four regions-Japan, Asia Pacific, North America, and EMEA/International.

You can learn more about the business of Kyowa Kirin at: https://www.kyowakirin.com

About NewBridge Pharmaceuticals

NewBridge Pharmaceuticals is a regional specialty company with a comprehensive pharmaceutical platform of services and expertise, established to bridge the access gap and partner with global pharma and biotech companies to in-license and commercialise innovative therapeutics that address unmet medical needs into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions.

For more information, please visit www.nbpharma.com

References

1Electronic Medicines Compendium. Crysvita 10 mg solution for injection. Available from: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9779/smpcgref. Last accessed: November 2023.

2Ferenczi K, et al. Increased CCR4 expression in cutaneous T cell lymphoma. J Invest Dermatol. 2002;119:1405-10.

3Yoshie O, et al. Frequent Expression of CCR4 in Adult T-Cell Leukemia and Human T-cell Leukemia Virus Type 1-transformed T cells. Blood. 2002;99(5):1505-11.

4Ishida T, et al. Clinical Significance of CCR4 Expression in Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma: Its Close Association With Skin Involvement and Unfavorable Outcome. Clin Cancer Res. 2003;9:3625-34.

5Duvic M, et al. Mogamulizumab for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: recent advances and clinical potential. Ther Adv Hematol. 2016;7(3):171-174.

KKI/INT/KKI/0959

Date of preparation: July 2024

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240807411936/en/

Contacts:

Stacey Minton

Email: Stacey.Minton@kyowakirin.com
LONDON, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Four in five British holiday makers (80%) think some European holiday hotspots will be too hot to visit within the next five years, as climate change and extreme weather threatens to change tomorrow's tourism map of Europe.

The new InsureandGo study asked a representative sample of 2,000 adults to reflect on their future holiday choices, based on the extreme weather they had experienced first-hand over the last few summers. This July, four in five Brits (80%) named one or more European countries that they think will be too hot to visit in five years' time - and this is a rise on 71% who cited extreme weather concerns this time last year.

The European countries that people think will be too hot to visit for a summer holiday by 2029 comprised of: Greece 48%, Turkey 45%, Spain 44%, Cyprus 40%, Italy 28%, Portugal 27% and Malta 23%.

First-hand holiday experiences of the impact of climate change:

In addition to people's concern over rising temperatures, the majority of UK holidaymakers have, in recent years, experienced the effects of climate change first-hand when overseas on holiday. This trend is also on the rise - up from 78% in summer 2022 to 85% this July.

Hotter temperatures (45%), poor air quality (26%), and plastic waste or litter on beaches (28%) have been most commonly experienced first-hand on holiday, the new research indicates there are year-on-year rises across the board.

While a record number of Brits are firmly planning to have a getaway abroad in the months ahead (83%), the cumulative impact of three summers of extreme heat is beginning to impact holidaymaker choices and their preparation before going overseas. Many holiday makers said they would now:

check the small print on their travel insurance documents to check the detail of what's covered and the terms for cancellation (18%);

research what the temperatures are likely to be for the destination they're considering (17%);

research hotel facilities - e.g. air conditioning (16%);

stay at a better quality resort/hotel that will have safety protocols for an emergency situation (13%).

Garry Nelson Head of Corporate Affairs at InsureandGo commented: "Most people are pushing forward with their much-needed summer holidays. This summer looks set to be another busy year at the usual southern Mediterranean hotspots. But there are clear signs that things could be about to change longer-term. Thousands of people have experienced extreme weather during their summer breaks in recent years and it's becoming clear that this is becoming an annual occurrence. At InsureandGo, we want to help people go abroad without the doubt. We would encourage people to do their destination research before they fly off and also to check what their travel insurance covers in terms of cancellation and medical cover for those with pre-existing conditions."

To discover more about InsureandGo, visit: InsureandGo.com

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JAKARTA, Indonesia, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (Indosat or IOH) celebrates a major milestone in its journey towards digital transformation with the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Digital Intelligence Operations Center (DIOC). This advanced facility represents a significant leap forward in Indosat's commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver exceptional service to more than 100 million customers across Indonesia.

The DIOC was inaugurated by Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and board of management and commissioner, and Simon Lin, President of Huawei Asia-Pacific Region and board, underscoring the strategic collaboration between the two companies. The DIOC will serve as the nerve center of Indosat's network operations, providing real-time insights and proactive service management to ensure optimal network performance and reliability. This innovative center merges the traditional Network Operations Center (NOC) and Service Operations Center (SOC), marking a new era of intelligent network and service management, propelling Indonesia's digital future.

Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, said, "Today marks a new chapter in Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison's story as we inaugurate our Digital Intelligence Operations Center. This facility embodies our ambition of becoming an Intelligence Native Telco, where cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions are at the core of our operations. With the DIOC, we are not just improving network performance; we are redefining the way we serve our customers. By integrating advanced technologies and fostering talent, we are setting new benchmarks in network performance and customer satisfaction. This collaboration is pivotal in realizing our mission to connect and empower every Indonesian through digital connectivity."

Furthermore, the DIOC has new advanced functionalities such as Real-time Network Insights, enabling Indosat to shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive service management, leveraging real-time data to optimize network performance and reliability. The DIOC also provides comprehensive End-to-End Service Management of all services, including performance, application experience, and quality which empowers Indosat to swiftly resolve customer issues and enhance satisfaction. In the end, the ability of DIOC to integrate data analysis and cutting-edge technologies can fuel continuous Data-Driven Innovation, which enables Indosat to develop new customer-centric products and services, leading the way in digital service advancements.

The inauguration also highlights the deepening partnership between Indosat and Huawei. Together, both companies aim to enhance network infrastructure, accelerate digital transformation, and cultivate top-tier talent to drive Indonesia's digital future. Huawei's advanced ICT solutions and technology leadership will help Indosat build a future-oriented, automated, and intelligent network, ensuring flexibility to adapt to customers' dynamic digital needs.

Reflecting on this collaboration, Simon Lin, President of Huawei Asia-Pacific Region said, "The unveiling of IOH's Digital Intelligence Operations Center represents a ground-breaking achievement, marking a new era of co-building the innovation hub and embracing intelligent network. This collaboration is built upon our long-term strategic partnership with Indosat, and serves as a testament to our shared commitment to continuously providing exceptional network experience. As a technology innovator, industry pioneer, and local contributor rooted in this region, Huawei is committed to leveraging our innovative solutions to help our customers maintain sustainable business success and competitiveness. Together, we are shaping a more digital, connected, and intelligent future for Indonesia."

Indosat has made significant strides in its digital transformation journey and achieved significant results. In collaboration with Huawei through the managed services and operations center, Indosat completed experience-centric network consolidation and significantly improved network quality and user experience. Independent third-party testing has shown Indosat's substantial improvements across rural, urban, and suburban areas, where the download speed in has improved significantly year-on-year (YoY), increasing 44.1% YoY in rural areas, 43.5% YoY in urban areas, and 43.9% YoY in suburban areas, contributing to higher customer satisfaction and network performance. Indosat's population coverage also increased, by 12.7 million people.

The implementation of network transformation strategies and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that coupled by strong collaboration with global partners are critical to provide marvelous experience to customers. Indosat and Huawei have embarked on collaboration journey to deepen cooperation, focusing on network infrastructure, network operations, and talent cultivation. Indosat also establish an open and collaborative environment by working closely with international organizations such as TM Forum to nurture innovation and explore new use cases with other global industry leaders.

"As Indosat continues to deploy innovative technologies like digital twin networks, AI/ML, and automation, we remain committed to catalyzing Indonesia's digital future. By leveraging our extensive network reach and next-generation technology adoption, Indosat aims to connect individuals, businesses, and everything in between, unlocking Indonesia's full digital potential," Vikram concluded.

About Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (Indosat, IDX: ISAT) has the vision to become the most preferred digital telecommunications company in Indonesia. Together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, Indosat provides cellular services, ICT solutions, data centers, Fiber to the Home (FTTH), electronic payment services, financial services, and other digital services. Indosat has a larger purpose of empowering Indonesia, and with the spirit of Gotong Royong, Indosat wants to be the main collaborator in realizing it and creating meaningful change.

Disclaimer

This document may contain financial information and the results of certain operational activities, and may contain a number of projections, plans, strategies, and objectives of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, which are not statements of historical fact which will be treated as forward-looking statements in accordance with applicable law. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could result in actual events and future achievements of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison different from those expected or indicated by the statements. No warranty can be given as to the results expected by Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, or indicated by such statements, to be achieved.

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Tectonic Gold Plc - Sale of South African Interests and strategic update

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, August 07

7 August 2024

TECTONIC GOLD PLC

("Tectonic" or the "Company")

Sale of South African Interests and strategic update

Tectonic Gold plc (TDIM: TTAU), is pleased to announce completion of the divestment of its interest in the South African diamond and heavy minerals projects to joint venture partner, AIM listed Kazera Global PLC (AIM: KZG) ("Kazera") and we also provide a strategic update.

Highlights:

Sale of 10% residual holdings in Deep Blue Minerals Pty Ltd and Whale Head Minerals Pty Ltd along with the Black Economic Empowerment loan interest for a total consideration of comprising cash of $150K (117,000) and 27,110,947 Kazera shares Australian copper/gold JV progressing with Amerod Resources (ASX:WEC White Energy Corporation Ltd) preparing to drill copper targets south of Specimen Hill following positive exploration results Tectonic completing diligence on Western Australian gold acquisition opportunity

Tectonic has determined to focus strategically on Australian gold and has divested its remaining interest in the South African diamond and mineral sands JV with Kazera. Tectonic will retain an indirect interest in the South African projects through an equity holding in Kazera. The consideration shares will be subject to a lock in for a period of six months and Kazera expects to have initial production underway within this time. The equity consideration of this transaction is subject to shareholder approval, and the Kazera directors and insiders have provided undertakings to vote in favour of the transaction and on this basis we expect it to be approved.

In our Queensland joint venture, White Energy has completed successful exploration work over the first half of the year. Copper targets to the south of the original Specimen Hill gold discovery at Southern Copper, Mt Fane, Bullseye and Mt Walturn have all returned positive results and a drilling program to further delineate these mineralised zones is being prepared.

A number of highly prospective Australia gold projects have been evaluated by the team, which has resulted in negotiations to acquire a portfolio of advanced assets in Western Australia. The project consists of shallow lying extensions to historic open pit mines and it also holds a substantial tailings stockpile which testing has shown is suitable for reprocessing. Gold recovery technology has advanced since these mines were operational and gold left behind in the tailings in the original process can be captured through simple chemical leaching in concrete vats. The old mines are in a well-known goldfield in Western Australia and there is substantial production from neighbouring mines. The operating mines are natural buyers for additional resources that can supplement existing mine production.

Tectonic still holds the Mt Cassidy intrusive related gold system project in Queensland. Mt Cassidy is along strike from the famous Mt Morgan copper/gold mine and has had no modern drill testing following its rediscovery by Tecrtonic. The Queensland Government has waived license fees on this project and it is being held for drill testing or farming out in a similar deal to Specimen Hill.

Mr. Brett Boynton, Managing Director - Tectonic Gold Plc

"We have been encouraged with the results White Energy is showing and we are excited to once again be looking at new gold opportunities in Australia. With this strategic focus it makes sense to step back from project level interest in the various South African assets and put all our energy into gold once again.

The strict guidelines for our Western Australian evaluations have been shallow deposits with potential for short term cash flow and proximity to existing producers who are looking for additional feed for their operations. This enables Tectonic to focus on our core strength of resource identification and delineation with ready local partners hungry to take projects into production and cash flow. This is a cost-effective way to build a portfolio of recurring revenues with royalties and profit sharing arrangements without having to build and operate mines.

We are pleased to see Kazera committing further resources to bringing Deep Blue back into production and having Whale Head ready to commission as soon as final permitting is in hand. We are hoping to see these two projects bring economic upliftment to the region in the short term and create real opportunity for the Black Economic Empowerment Partners we introduced to the project."

The Directors of the Company accept responsibility for the contents of this announcement.

Investors can sign up to Tectonic's mailing list at the following link:

http://www.tectonicgold.com/contact

Follow us on Twitter: @Tectonic_Gold

For further information, please contact:
LONDON, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Constellation Cold Logistics ("Constellation" or the "Company"), a leading European cold storage and logistics provider, announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Agri-Norcold A/S ("Agri-Norcold"). The transaction brings Constellation's first entry into the Danish market, strengthening its European footprint and service offering in the Nordics for existing and new customers.

Agri-Norcold, headquartered in Aalborg, Denmark, has been the leading player in the Danish cold storage industry since its establishment in 1964. Agri-Norcold owns and operates 10 facilities strategically positioned near major food production hubs, import/export points, and major cities ensuring efficient transportation and logistics flows. Its extensive network across Denmark boasts a total of 865,756 m3 of frozen storage, or 266,000 pallet spaces, in addition to major freezing and packing infrastructure. Since 2012, Agri-Norcold has been jointly owned by TA-Logistics and Danish Crown.

Carlos Rodriguez (Constellation's CEO) said: "The addition of Agri-Norcold to our network opens up strategic opportunities in Denmark and strengthens Constellation's leading position in the Nordics, where we already enjoy strong partnerships and growth opportunities with our customers in Norway and Sweden.

"Agri-Norcold's long standing relationship with Danish Crown and several other meat, dairy, seafood and packaged food producers positions the company well for future growth. Denmark is one of the largest net exporters of food products in Europe, and this transaction will allow us to continue to grow with new customers, as well as many others that we already serve across the Constellation network."

Thorkil Andersen (CEO, TA-Logistics A/S, and Chairman for Agri-Norcold) said: "I'm very pleased that Agri-Norcold is joining Constellation. The Agri-Norcold team's customer service focus is very much aligned with Constellation's responsiveness and culture, and they look forward to benefiting from the capabilities of a pan-European network. TA-Logistics companies look forward to collaborating with Constellation, both within Denmark and in other operating geographies where Frode Laursen and other companies of the group provide transportation and other value add services."

Jan Nielsen (Agri-Norcold's MD) said: "I would like to congratulate our employees for the great company that they have built over the years. They should take great pride in what we have achieved together, and they can look forward to greater opportunity and growth as part of the wider Constellation network. I would also like to thank our customers for the trust they place in us every day, I am excited to be able now to provide them with solutions across Europe, and to extend our services in Denmark to existing Constellation customers. Constellation and Agri-Norcold share common values and I truly believe that we can achieve great things together."

Constellation is Europe's leading independent cold storage and logistics provider with approximately 700,000 pallet positions of temperature-controlled capacity and a presence across seven European countries, excluding the Agri-Norcold acquisition. www.constellationcold.com

TA-Logistics is a family-owned investment company that focuses solely on logistics. TA-Logistics owns, leads and develop operational logistic companies. These include Frode Laursen A/S, IN-Store A/S, Kaj Madsen Fjelstrup A/S, Skanol A/S and other subsidiaries, with more than 3,000 employees, 600,000 m2 warehouse and 1,300 transport vehicles across the group.

www.ta-logistics.dk | www.frode-laursen.com

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LOS ANGELES, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calibre Scientific is pleased to announce the acquisition of ACEFE, S.A.U. ("ACEFESA" or the "Company"), a Barcelona-based distributor of laboratory consumables and equipment for the biotechnology, molecular biology, pharmaceutical and veterinary industries. ACEFESA is Calibre Scientific's fifth acquisition in Spain, further expanding its presence and product portfolio across the Iberian Peninsula.



The Company offers a highly diversified product portfolio spanning over 200K+ SKUs, including separation systems, reagents, containers, lab hygiene products as well as volumetric, optical, pumping and temperature control equipment, among others. ACEFESA is particularly well-known for its filtration systems for which it offers a wide variety of products that cater toward a broad range of customers and end markets.

With this acquisition, Calibre Scientific further expands its distribution footprint in the Iberian Peninsula and broadens its portfolio with a range of complementary products focused in areas such as micro and ultrafiltration, microbiology, molecular biology and blotting and environment. "This acquisition reaffirms Calibre Scientific's ongoing commitment to the Iberian market," said Ben Travis, Chief Executive Officer of Calibre Scientific. "The integration of ACEFESA's technical expertise and extensive product offerings enable us to provide an increasingly comprehensive solution for our customers across various scientific and industrial sectors."

"Joining Calibre Scientific opens up new opportunities for ACEFESA to expand our reach and better serve our customers," said Paul McDonough, Managing Director of ACEFESA. "We are excited to leverage Calibre Scientific's global network and resources to continue providing exceptional products and services."

AboutCalibreScientific

CalibreScientific is a diversified global provider of life science reagents, tools, instruments, and other consumables to lab research, diagnostics, industrial, and biopharmaceutical communities. Calibre Scientific owns a portfolio of life science and diagnostic companies that have an unrivaled ability to address its customers' challenges in their respective markets. Our global reach extends to over 175 countries, empowering customers all over the world. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Calibre Scientific continues to expand its product offering and global footprint to laboratories across a wide array of verticals and geographies.
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

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Tailoring engineering solutions to propel international growth

CHANGSHA, China, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. ("Zoomlion", 01157.HK), a leading manufacturer of advanced equipment, continues to excel in the global market, showcasing remarkable performance across diverse regions from the scorching deserts of the Middle East to the complex mining landscapes of South America. The company remains dedicated to delivering engineering machinery solutions that cater to local needs, driving forward with a dual approach of international expansion and localized development.

Zoomlion's products continue to perform well in global markets. From the hot deserts of the Middle East to the complex mines of South America, the company remains committed to providing engineering machinery solutions that best suit local needs.

In a celebration marking the 17th anniversary of its Gulf subsidiary in Dubai, Zoomlion secured orders worth 200 million yuan (US$27.6 million) and nearly 100 million yuan (US$13.8 million) at Tabuk Customer Day in Saudi Arabia. The Company is also involved in high-speed railway construction and Riyadh King Salman Park projects with localized solutions that meet the specific needs of the region.

In Southeast Asia, a groundbreaking ceremony for East Coast Railway's Gombak Station was held recently in Malaysia and a batch delivery ceremony of mining machinery was successfully held in Sumatra, Indonesia, where Zoomlion handed over nearly 30 units of advanced mining equipment including the ZT105 dump trucks and ZE750G excavators.

Zoomlion opened a new branch in Itajai, Brazil, increasing its local offices to 12 and its market share in concrete pump trucks rose to over 70%. Zoomlion also showcased machinery at Chile's Exponor, offering competitive products and solutions.

At Poland's eRobocze Show this June, Zoomlion's mini excavators received significant attention. The compact yet powerful machines demonstrated their versatility and efficiency, appealing to the European market's specific needs.

In Africa, the first batch of Zoomlion rotary drilling rigs was successfully delivered to Nigeria to support natural gas extraction projects. To facilitate the rapid construction of the project, the total value of the rotary drilling rigs ordered by the local natural gas mining supporting facilities project construction party reached nearly 50 million yuan (US$ 6.9 million).

Zoomlion's recent achievements have solidified the Company's reputation around the world and the brand is now synonymous with efficient, high-quality, and environmentally friendly construction machinery.

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/zoomlions-expanded-global-footprints-deliveries-exhibitions-and-project-engagements-recognized-worldwide-302216301.html
DC Connected Car GmbH, a trailblazer in AI-driven remote vehicle diagnostics, announces the closure of a 2.1M seed funding round. Led by Insurtech-fund VENPACE, this round includes contributions from Borusan Ventures, Atlas Ventures, Network.VC, and existing investors APX, Bloomhaus Ventures, and Business Angels. This investment accelerates DC Connected Car's mission to revolutionize the $500B automotive aftersales market with its virtual technician platform.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240807187434/en/

This fresh injection of capital will fuel DC Connected Car's international expansion and development of advanced diagnostic tools for roadside assistance, warranty, and repair. (Graphic: Business Wire)

DC Connected Car's virtual technician platform addresses the shortage of skilled labor in the industry, and their remote diagnostics and advanced AI set new sector benchmarks. Unlike conventional diagnostics, AI-driven solutions deliver automated, intelligent insights into vehicle health and performance, providing real-time problem-solution recommendations. This approach minimizes the need for physical inspections/repairs, but also integrates into customers' lives by offering remote support. By combining AI with remote diagnostics, DC Connected Car redefines vehicle maintenance and customer convenience, solidifying its position as a standout player in the space, highlighted by its partnerships with Major OEMs.

"AI has the potential to revolutionize various automotive areas that Borusan operates in, such as aftersales, fleets, and used car business," said Timo Kilp, Head of Borusan Ventures. "We believe DC Connected Car's AI-driven digital technician holds significant promise to accelerate the diagnosis and repair of vehicle issues, further enhancing our customer service."

Not only disruptive in the automotive repair sector, DC Connected Car is driving innovations in the insurance industry too. Their partnership with Real Garant Versicherung AG marks a new era of digitalization, sustainable mobility, and future-orientated service design.

"With the cooperation with DC Connected Car GmbH, we expect to significantly contribute to environmentally friendly mobility solutions and to drive forward digitalization in the automotive sector by providing digital solutions for warranty and service products," explains Suzana Janny, Head of Market Proposition at Real Garant Versicherung AG

This fresh injection of capital will fuel DC Connected Car's international expansion and development of advanced diagnostic tools for roadside assistance, warranty, and repair. The company has seamlessly integrated and digitized expertise across various automotive departments, breaking down silos and enhancing efficiency.

About DC Connected Car GmbH

Founded in 2020 in Leibi, Germany, DC Connected Car offers an all-in-one solution that represents the virtual vehicle technician of the future. This platform addresses the complexities of modern vehicle generations and labor shortage by enabling automated and intelligent diagnostic and repair processes.

"What excites us most about DC Connected Car is the wide range of possible applications for their virtual assistant in the mobility ecosystem. Insurers especially have a high interest in elevating their customer experience by digitizing roadside assistance services. In addition, the team has already impressively demonstrated that it has been able to win well-known B2B customers and OEMs as partners," said Tizian Hoppen of VENPACE.

The team behind DC Connected Car includes experts with deep industry knowledge and experience. Dennis Christ, an expert in automotive technology and a certified appraiser, provides precise and reliable diagnostic procedures. Ralf Schollenberger leverages his extensive network and expertise in insurance and the aftermarket to forge strategic partnerships. Willian Servigna, specializing in AI and software development, ensures that solutions remain at the forefront of technology.

About VENPACE VENPACE is a leading investor from the insurance space, guiding startups with unique expertise to sustainably scale innovative solutions. Together with partners throughout the DACH region, they tackle the insurance industry's challenges head-on, developing and establishing innovative business models.

About BORUSAN Ventures Borusan Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Borusan Group, a prominent industrial group in the U.S., Europe and CIS region. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, Borusan Ventures invests in early-stage startups in the U.S. and Europe, focusing on mobility, supply chain/logistics, energy/climate, enterprise, and industrial sectors.

About ATLAS Ventures Atlas Ventures is a UK-based industrial tech fund focussed on investing in seed and late seed stage opportunities in Developed European markets, with a primary focus on innovative B2B solutions targeting industrial manufacturing, energy and climate, mobility, supply chain and logistics sectors.

For more information, visit https://www.dc-connected.de/en.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240807187434/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact: Emma Klawitter

Email: emma.klawitter@dc-connected.de
Princeton, New Jersey--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - CureValue, a pioneering healthcare tourism business, has officially launched its full-service platform designed to offer affordable medical care abroad as a viable alternative to expensive healthcare in the United States and Canada. By providing a seamless integration of medical treatments, accommodations, travel arrangements, and continuous support, CureValue aims to make high-quality healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone.

The CureValue vision, as a new player in the healthcare tourism sector, brings together a team of dedicated professionals with extensive experience in healthcare, travel, and technology.

CureValue



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"Our mission at CureValue is to ensure that no one has to compromise on their health due to high costs or lack of access to quality care. We believe in providing a viable alternative for those seeking affordable healthcare solutions," said Nicole Quispe, Public Relations Officer at CureValue.

CureValue believes in providing a viable alternative for those seeking affordable healthcare solutions



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Inspiration and Vision

The inspiration behind CureValue stems from the experiences of the founding team's family members and relatives who faced exorbitant costs for various medical treatments in the United States. From dental treatments and hair transplant procedures to knee surgery, the high costs were a significant burden. "These experiences highlighted the potential benefits of medical tourism and inspired the creation of a platform to help others find similar opportunities for savings and quality care," explained Quispe.

Addressing User Challenges

Market research conducted with Americans who explored healthcare services abroad highlighted several challenges that CureValue addresses:

Lack of information about treatment quality: CureValue provides comprehensive details and verified profiles of doctors and medical centers, ensuring users have access to quality information about facilities.

CureValue provides comprehensive details and verified profiles of doctors and medical centers, ensuring users have access to quality information about facilities. Legitimacy concerns: Many users were curious but did not commit due to anxieties about the credibility of medical facilities abroad. CureValue's stringent verification process for partner facilities ensures trust and confidence for users.

Many users were curious but did not commit due to anxieties about the credibility of medical facilities abroad. CureValue's stringent verification process for partner facilities ensures trust and confidence for users. Finding top professionals within a country: While users could identify top countries for specific procedures, finding high-quality medical professionals within those countries was challenging. CureValue solves this by offering detailed information and comparisons of top medical professionals and facilities within each country.

User-Desired Factors

CureValue was created to address key factors that meet clients' healthcare needs:

Reputation of facilities or providers: CureValue includes extensive patient reviews and success stories, allowing users to gauge the reputation of facilities and providers.

CureValue includes extensive patient reviews and success stories, allowing users to gauge the reputation of facilities and providers. Cost comparison to the US: CureValue offers transparent cost information and comparisons to US prices, helping users find affordable healthcare solutions.

Positive Feedback from Soft Launch Users

During the soft launch, initial users provided valuable feedback on CureValue's features:

Easy comparison of high-quality facilities for dental care: Users appreciated the ability to easily compare top facilities for dental procedures.

Users appreciated the ability to easily compare top facilities for dental procedures. Transparency around cost, reputation, and logistics: CureValue's transparency regarding costs, reputation of doctors, potential patient outcomes, and logistical support for pre-trip and post-trip arrangements was highly valued.

CureValue's transparency regarding costs, reputation of doctors, potential patient outcomes, and logistical support for pre-trip and post-trip arrangements was highly valued. Knowledge of local programs with transparent and economical costs: Users found CureValue's detailed information about local healthcare programs and their costs to be particularly useful.

Comprehensive Platform

CureValue offers a comprehensive platform that allows users to search for medical treatments and procedures, compare options from a wide range of trusted facilities worldwide, and access verified profiles of doctors and medical centers. Users can also read extensive patient reviews and success stories to make informed decisions.

The platform is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring a seamless experience from booking treatments to making travel arrangements. CureValue assigns a dedicated medical travel representative to support patients throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to post-treatment follow-up. The company also provides detailed information about destinations, including sightseeing options, accessibility, transportation, living standards, and visa requirements, making it easier for patients to plan their medical journey.

CureValue features a listing of over 2,500 hospitals and clinics in 68 countries worldwide. Each of these facilities is rated over multiple factors and given a unique CureValue rating. This rating, along with other details, allows CureValue users to quickly assess any facility or destination. This information is available free of charge so that users can make educated decisions about their treatment before they commit.

Importantly, CureValue is committed to providing the highest quality medical care by partnering with trusted facilities and experienced doctors. All partners undergo a stringent verification process to ensure they meet CureValue's quality standards. Transparency is a core value for CureValue, offering clear and detailed information about costs, procedures, and providers, enabling users to make informed healthcare decisions.

Affordable Healthcare Solutions

By offering affordable treatment options and flexible payment plans, CureValue ensures that high-quality care is within reach for all users. The platform includes listings of hospitals and doctors in countries such as Mexico, Thailand, Turkey, and many others, broken down in detail to provide a valuable service for those seeking international healthcare options.

"We believe in making healthcare accessible to everyone," Quispe further stated. "By offering affordable treatment options and flexible payment plans, we ensure that high-quality care is within reach for all our users."

CureValue is dedicated to supporting its users throughout their healthcare journey. From the initial consultation to post-treatment follow-up, the CureValue team is always available to provide assistance and ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

In addition to medical treatments, CureValue also focuses on the holistic well-being of its users. The company provides insights into various destinations, highlighting local cultures, cuisines, and activities that can enhance the overall experience of traveling for medical care. This approach not only addresses the physical health needs of patients but also promotes mental and emotional well-being by offering enriching experiences during their stay.

CureValue's comprehensive approach includes providing detailed pre-treatment consultations to help patients understand their options and make informed choices. The company's support doesn't end with the treatment; they offer post-treatment follow-up to ensure successful recovery and satisfaction with the services received.

More information on CureValue and its comprehensive services is available at https://curevalue.org/common/how-it-works.php.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219123

SOURCE: Release Media Inc.
SHANGHAI, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Dingdong (Cayman) Limited ("Dingdong" or the "Company") (NYSE: DDL), a leading fresh grocery e-commerce company in China, with advanced supply chain capabilities, today announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Second Quarter 2024 Highlights:

GMV for the second quarter of 2024 increased by 16.8% year over year to RMB6,218.7 million (US$855.7 million) from RMB5,322.4 million in the same quarter of 2023. In June, we saw remarkable growth, with the same stores' GMV increasing by 21.6% year over year, and all regions experienced positive year-over-year growth in scale.

for the second quarter of 2024 increased by 16.8% year over year to RMB6,218.7 million (US$855.7 million) from RMB5,322.4 million in the same quarter of 2023. In June, we saw remarkable growth, with the same stores' GMV increasing by 21.6% year over year, and all regions experienced positive year-over-year growth in scale. Non-GAAP net income for the second quarter of 2024 increased by 1268.6% year over year to RMB103.1 million (US$14.2 million), the seventh consecutive quarter of non-GAAP profitability, compared with non-GAAP net income of RMB7.5 million in the same quarter of 2023.

for the second quarter of 2024 increased by 1268.6% year over year to RMB103.1 million (US$14.2 million), the seventh consecutive quarter of non-GAAP profitability, compared with non-GAAP net income of RMB7.5 million in the same quarter of 2023. N et income for the second quarter of 2024 was RMB67.1 million (US$9.2 million), compared with net loss of RMB36.6 million in the same quarter of 2023. Both non-GAAP and GAAP net income this quarter made record highs for the past 12 months.

for the second quarter of 2024 was RMB67.1 million (US$9.2 million), compared with net loss of RMB36.6 million in the same quarter of 2023. Both non-GAAP and GAAP net income this quarter made record highs for the past 12 months. Net cash provided by operating activities for the second quarter of 2024 was RMB245.7 million (US$33.8 million), the fourth consecutive quarter of net operating cash inflow.

Mr. Changlin Liang, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Dingdong, stated, "As of the second quarter of 2024, Dingdong has achieved profitability for seven consecutive quarters based on non-GAAP standards. Additionally, after the first quarter of this year, the company has again achieved GAAP profitability. Notably, we have resumed growth since the first quarter of this year. Both profits and revenue have shown positive year-over-year growth for two consecutive quarters. These achievements are mainly attributed to Dingdong's world-leading fresh grocery supply chain capabilities, which facilitate our continued growth in scale and profits. Considering our improved performance in the second quarter and our expectations for further growth, we have raised our forecasts for profitability and scale. We anticipate a significant year-over-year increase in net profit and scale for both the year as a whole and the third quarter, and are confident that we will achieve both non-GAAP and GAAP profitability."

Mr. Song Wang, Chief Financial Officer of Dingdong, stated, "In the second quarter of 2024, Dingdong generated revenue of RMB5.6 billion, up 15.7% compared to the previous year. Non-GAAP net profit margin was 1.8%, a 1.6 percentage point increase from the previous year, with a net profit of RMB103 million, nearly a 13-fold increase from the previous year. This is the seventh consecutive quarter of non-GAAP profitability. The Company was profitable under the GAAP standards for a second consecutive quarter with net profit margin of 1.2%, up by 2.0 percentage points year-over-year, and net profit of RMB67.13 million, an increase of RMB103.73 million year over year. At the end of the second quarter, our balance of cash and cash equivalents, short-term restricted funds, and short-term investments amounted to RMB4.16 billion. We are continuously improving the efficiency of capital use and our financing structure. The actual balance of our own funds, which is the cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments deducted the balance of short-term borrowings, was RMB2.32 billion. In the second quarter, we achieved outstanding financial performance in line with our guidance. Considering our recent operating financial performance and balance sheet strength, we are confident we will meet our performance expectations for the third quarter and the whole year."

Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Total revenues were RMB5,599.0 million (US$770.4 million) compared with total revenues of RMB4,840.6 million in the same quarter of 2023, primarily attributed to the increased numbers of transacting users and frequency of monthly purchases and resumed expanding our station network in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai this year, leading to a higher revenue.

Product Revenues were RMB5,517.9 million (US$759.3 million) compared with product revenues of RMB4,778.7 million in the same quarter of 2023.

Service Revenues were RMB81.1 million (US$11.2 million) compared with service revenues of RMB61.9 million in the same quarter of 2023, primarily driven by the increase of customers subscribing to Dingdong's membership program.

Total operating costs and expenses were RMB5,612.8 million (US$772.3 million) compared with RMB4,866.9 million in the same quarter of 2023, with a detailed breakdown as below:

Cost of goods sold was RMB3,919.4 million (US$539.3 million), an increase of 17.3% from RMB3,340.3 million in the same quarter of 2023. Cost of goods sold as a percentage of revenues increased slightly to 70.0% from 69.0% in the same quarter of 2023.

Fulfillment expenses were RMB1,252.9 million (US$172.4 million), an increase of 9.7% from RMB1,142.0 million in the same quarter of 2023. Fulfillment expenses as a percentage of total revenues decreased to 22.4% from 23.6% in the same quarter of 2023. This was mainly due to the increased order volume that boosted operational efficiency. In addition, we optimized the layout of the regional processing centers in the second half of 2023, which will continue to improve their operation efficiency this year.

Sales and marketing expenses were RMB129.7 million (US$17.8 million), an increase of 38.3% from RMB93.7 million in the same quarter of 2023. Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of total revenues increased to 2.3% from 1.9% in the same quarter of 2023, mainly due to the increased spending on staff cost and sales and marketing activities to acquire new customers.

General and administrative expenses were RMB108.2 million (US$14.9 million), an increase of 21.4% from RMB89.1 million in the same quarter of 2023, mainly due to the increase of staff cost and professional service fees.

Product development expenses were RMB202.7 million (US$27.9 million), a slightly increase of 0.5% from RMB201.7 million in the same quarter of 2023. While advocating for energy and resource saving, we will continue to invest in our product development capabilities, agricultural technology, data algorithms, and other technology infrastructure, to further enhance our competitiveness.

Income from operations was RMB53.6 million (US$7.4 million), compared with operating loss of RMB49.6 million in the same quarter of 2023.

Non-GAAP income from operations, which is a non-GAAP measure for income from operations that excludes share-based compensation expenses, was RMB89.6 million (US$12.3 million), increased by 1754.1% year over year, compared with Non-GAAP loss from operations of RMB5.4 million in the same quarter of 2023.

Net income was RMB67.1 million (US$9.2 million), compared with net loss of RMB36.6 million in the same quarter of 2023.

Non-GAAP net income, which is a non-GAAP measure that excludes share-based compensation expenses, was RMB103.1 million (US$14.2 million), increased by 1268.6% year over year, compared with non-GAAP net income of RMB7.5 million in the same quarter of 2023. In addition, non-GAAP net income margin, which is the Company's non-GAAP net income as a percentage of total revenues, was 1.8% compared with 0.2% in the same quarter of 2023.

Basic and diluted net income per share was RMB0.20 (US$0.00), compared with net loss per share of RMB0.12 in the same quarter of 2023. Non-GAAP net income per share, basic and diluted, was RMB0.31 (US$0.00), compared with RMB0.02 in the same quarter of 2023.

Cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments were RMB4,157.6 million (US$572.1 million) as of June 30, 2024, compared with RMB5,309.7 million as of December 31, 2023. We have been working diligently to optimize our capital usage and financing structure. The cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments deducted the balance of short-term borrowings, is RMB2.32 billion, a net increase for the four consecutive quarter.

Guidance

The Company has raised its expectations for both net profit and scale again, and is anticipating considerable year-over-year growth for the third quarter and this year. The Company is looking to achieve both non-GAAP and GAAP profits in the third quarter and for the entire year of 2024.

Dingdong Announces the Change of Director

SHANGHAI, August 7th, 2024 - Dingdong (Cayman) Limited ("Dingdong" or the "Company") (NYSE: DDL), a leading fresh grocery e-commerce company in China, today announced the appointment of Mr. Ed CHAN Yiu Cheong as the director of the Company, also the chair of Compensation Committee, member of Audit Committee and member of Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, effective from August 7, 2024.

Mr. CHAN worked in numerous leading retail companies. Mr CHAN is currently a non-executive director of Treasury Wine Estates Limited (which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange), and a board advisor of Lee Kum Kee Group and its subsidiary Infinitus. Mr CHAN was previously an executive director and the vice chairman of C.P. Lotus Corporation (which was listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange), a vice chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group Company Limited, an operating partner of SoftBank Investment Advisers and an independent non-executive director of Yum China Holdings, Inc. (which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange). In addition, he was a partner of Gaorong Capital from July 2020 to June 2022, the president and chief executive officer of Walmart China from November 2006 to October 2011, and held senior positions with the Dairy Farm Group (including his last position as Regional Director, North Asia from November 2001 to November 2006). Mr CHAN also led Bertelsmann Music Group business in Greater China. Mr CHAN began his career as a consultant with McKinsey & Co working in both Hong Kong and the United States. He obtained a Bachelor degree from The University of Chicago and a Master degree from the Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology .

Mr. CHAN stated: "joining Dingdong, this remarkable company, fills me with immerse enthusiasm and I am truly honored and thrilled to serve as a director of Dingdong. Dingdong's commitment in the fresh grocery e-commerce sector and its dedication to excellence have truly impressed me. I will closely work with our strong team and contribute my skills and expertise towards Dingdong's continued success and growth."

"We are pleased to have Mr. Chan as a board member. Mr. Chan's deep insights and expertise in the consumer and retail industry will greatly complement our existing team's capabilities. As our company continues to demonstrate improved financial and operational performance, we recognize the need to further strengthen our management team. We are committed to enhancing the depth and breadth of talent within our organization. With his appointment, we are taking a significant step towards achieving this goal." commented Mr. Changlin Liang, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

The company also announced that Mr. Weili Hong, a director, also the chair of Compensation Committee, member of Audit Committee and member of Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Company, has tendered his resignation to step down from his current positions due to personal reasons. Mr. Hong's resignation will be effective from August 7, 2024. Mr. Hong's resignation was not the result of any dispute or disagreement with the Company or the Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") or any matter relating to the operation, policies or practices of the Company.

"On behalf of the Company and the Board, I would like to express our deepest appreciation for Mr. Weili Hong's years of service and for the positive impact he has made on our company's growth and development" commented Mr. Changlin Liang, Chairman and CEO of Dingdong, "we also extend our best wishes to Mr. Hong in all his future endeavors."

Conference Call

The Company's management will hold an earnings conference call at 8:00 A.M. Eastern Time on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 (8:00 P.M. Beijing Time on the same day) to discuss the financial results. The presentation and question and answer session will be presented in both Mandarin and English. Listeners may access the call by dialing the following numbers:









International:

1-412-317-6061 United States Toll Free:

1-888-317-6003 Mainland China Toll Free:

4001-206115 Hong Kong Toll Free:

800-963976 Conference ID:

7823656













The replay will be accessible through August 14, 2024 by dialing the following numbers:









International:

1-412-317-0088 United States:

1-877-344-7529 Access Code:

5232727













A live and archived webcast of the conference call will also be available at the Company's investor relations website at https://ir.100.me.

About Dingdong (Cayman) Limited

We are a leading fresh grocery e-commerce company in mainland China, with sustainable long-term growth. We directly provide users and households with fresh groceries, prepared food, and other food products through delivering a convenient and excellent shopping experience supported by an extensive self-operated frontline fulfillment grid. Leveraging our deep insights into consumers' evolving needs and our strong food innovation capabilities, we have successfully launched a series of private label products spanning a variety of food categories. Many of our private label products are produced at our Dingdong production plants, allowing us to more efficiently produce and offer safe and high-quality food products. We aim to be the first choice for fresh and food shopping.

For more information, please visit: https://ir.100.me.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The Company uses non-GAAP measures, such as non-GAAP net income, non-GAAP net income margin, non-GAAP net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and non-GAAP net income per share, basic and diluted, in evaluating its operating results and for financial and operational decision-making purposes. The Company believes that the non-GAAP financial measures help identify underlying trends in its business by excluding the impact of share-based compensation expenses, which are non-cash charges and do not correlate to any operating activity trends. The Company believes that the non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information about the Company's results of operations, enhance the overall understanding of the Company's past performance and future prospects and allow for greater visibility with respect to key metrics used by the Company's management in its financial and operational decision-making.

The non-GAAP financial measures are not defined under U.S. GAAP and are not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non-GAAP financial measures have limitations as analytical tools, and when assessing the Company's operating performance, cash flows or liquidity, investors should not consider them in isolation, or as a substitute for net loss, cash flows provided by operating activities or other consolidated statements of operations and cash flows data prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The Company's definition of non-GAAP financial measures may differ from those of industry peers and may not be comparable with their non-GAAP financial measures.

The Company mitigates these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable U.S. GAAP performance measures, all of which should be considered when evaluating the Company's performance.

For more information on the non-GAAP financial measures, please see the table captioned "Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results" set forth at the end of this announcement.

Exchange Rate Information

This announcement contains translations of certain RMB amounts into U.S. dollars ("US$") at specified rates solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise stated, all translations from RMB to US$ were made at the rate of RMB7.2672 to US$1.00, the exchange rate on June 28, 2024 set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board. The Company makes no representation that the RMB or US$ amounts referred could be converted into US$ or RMB, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "confident," "potential," "continue," or other similar expressions. Among other things, business outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Dingdong's strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Dingdong may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Dingdong's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Dingdong's goals and strategies; Dingdong's future business development, financial conditions, and results of operations; the expected outlook of the fresh grocery ecommerce market in China; Dingdong's expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its products and services; Dingdong's expectations regarding its relationships with its users, clients, business partners, and other stakeholders; competition in Dingdong's industry; and relevant government policies and regulations relating to Dingdong's industry, and general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company's filings with the SEC. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

DINGDONG (CAYMAN) LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Amounts in thousands of RMB and US$)







As of







December 31,

2023



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2024







RMB



RMB



US$













(Unaudited)

ASSETS



















Current assets:



















Cash and cash equivalents



1,209,225



1,060,366



145,911

Restricted cash



480



1,301



179

Short-term investments



4,099,977



3,095,942



426,016

Accounts receivable, net



107,879



112,041



15,417

Inventories, net



471,872



475,366



65,413

Advance to suppliers



73,732



59,983



8,254

Prepayments and other current assets



187,486



201,097



27,672

Total current assets



6,150,651



5,006,096



688,862























Non-current assets:



















Property and equipment, net



189,084



150,736



20,742

Operating lease right-of-use assets



1,262,134



1,247,578



171,672

Other non-current assets



96,687



92,859



12,778

Total non-current assets



1,547,905



1,491,173



205,192























TOTAL ASSETS



7,698,556



6,497,269



894,054























LIABILITIES, MEZZANINE EQUITY AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current liabilities:



















Accounts payable



1,422,183



1,502,879



206,803

Customer advances and deferred revenue



240,280



257,709



35,462

Accrued expenses and other current

liabilities



656,408



693,251



95,395

Salary and welfare payable



233,073



222,440



30,609

Operating lease liabilities, current



653,529



596,799



82,122

Short-term borrowings



3,300,214



1,832,776



252,198

Total current liabilities



6,505,687



5,105,854



702,589























Non-current liabilities:



















Operating lease liabilities, non-current



568,039



607,365



83,576

Other non-current liabilities



126,206



134,562



18,516

Total non-current liabilities



694,245



741,927



102,092























TOTAL LIABILITIES



7,199,932



5,847,781



804,681



DINGDONG (CAYMAN) LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED) (Amounts in thousands of RMB and US$)







As of







December 31, 2023



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2024







RMB



RMB



US$













(Unaudited)

LIABILITIES, MEZZANINE EQUITY AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED)

Mezzanine Equity:



















Redeemable noncontrolling interests



116,090



120,631



16,599























TOTAL MEZZANINE EQUITY



116,090



120,631



16,599























Shareholders' equity:



















Ordinary shares



4



4



1

Additional paid-in capital



14,061,992



14,127,201



1,943,968

Treasury stock



(20,666)



(27,368)



(3,766)

Accumulated deficit



(13,679,965)



(13,605,107)



(1,872,125)

Accumulated other comprehensive income



21,169



34,127



4,696























TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY



382,534



528,857



72,774























TOTAL LIABILITIES, MEZZANINE EQUITY

AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY



7,698,556



6,497,269



894,054



DINGDONG (CAYMAN) LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Amounts in thousands of RMB and US$, except for number of shares and per share data)









For the three months ended June 30,







2023



2024



2024







RMB



RMB



US$







(Unaudited)

Revenues:



















Product revenues



4,778,733



5,517,850



759,281

Service revenues



61,873



81,103



11,161























Total revenues



4,840,606



5,598,953



770,442























Operating costs and expenses:



















Cost of goods sold



(3,340,343)



(3,919,445)



(539,334)

Fulfillment expenses



(1,141,990)



(1,252,859)



(172,399)

Sales and marketing expenses



(93,731)



(129,659)



(17,842)

Product development expenses



(201,724)



(202,663)



(27,887)

General and administrative expenses



(89,067)



(108,165)



(14,884)























Total operating costs and expenses



(4,866,855)



(5,612,791)



(772,346)























Other operating (loss)/ income, net



(23,307)



67,438



9,280

(Loss) /income from operations



(49,556)



53,600



7,376

Interest income



41,340



37,807



5,202

Interest expenses



(24,425)



(14,023)



(1,930)

Other loss, net



(948)



(2,844)



(391)























(Loss) /income before income tax



(33,589)



74,540



10,257























Income tax expenses



(3,015)



(7,414)



(1,020)























Net (loss)/income



(36,604)



67,126



9,237























Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests



(2,122)



(2,292)



(315)























Net (loss)/income attributable to ordinary

shareholders



(38,726)



64,834



8,922

























DINGDONG (CAYMAN) LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(CONTINUED) (Amounts in thousands of RMB and US$, except for number of shares and per share data)







For the three months ended June 30,







2023



2024



2024







RMB



RMB



US$







(Unaudited)

Net (loss)/ income per Class A and Class B ordinary

share:



















Basic and diluted



(0.12)



0.20



-

Shares used in net (loss)/income per Class A and

Class B ordinary share computation:



















Basic



324,606,046



325,430,984



325,430,984

Diluted



324,606,046



329,814,651



329,814,651

Other comprehensive income, net of tax of nil:



















Foreign currency translation adjustments



98,302



9,441



1,299























Comprehensive income



61,698



76,567



10,536























Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests



(2,122)



(2,292)



(315)























Comprehensive income attributable to ordinary

shareholders



59,576



74,275



10,221



DINGDONG (CAYMAN) LIMITED UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Amounts in thousands of RMB and US$)







For the three months ended June 30,







2023



2024



2024







RMB



RMB



US$







(Unaudited)























Net cash (used in) / generated from operating activities



(177,711)



245,738



33,815























Net cash generated from investing activities



43,003



278,839



38,370























Net cash used in financing activities



(126,218)



(592,905)



(81,587)























Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash

equivalents and restricted cash



5,265



(1,479)



(204)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents and

restricted cash



(255,661)



(69,807)



(9,606)























Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at the

beginning of the period



1,785,841



1,131,474



155,696

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at the

end of the period



1,530,180



1,061,667



146,090



DINGDONG (CAYMAN) LIMITED UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP RESULTS (Amounts in thousands of RMB and US$, except for number of shares and per share data)







For the three months ended

June 30,







2023



2024



2024







RMB



RMB



US$







(Unaudited)

(Loss) /income from operations



(49,556)



53,600



7,376

Add: share-based compensation expenses (1)



44,139



36,001



4,954

Non-GAAP (loss) /income from operations



(5,417)



89,601



12,330























Operating margin



(1.0 %)



1.0 %



1.0 %

Add: share-based compensation expenses



0.9 %



0.6 %



0.6 %

Non-GAAP operating margin



(0.1 %)



1.6 %



1.6 %























Net (loss)/income



(36,604)



67,126



9,237

Add: share-based compensation expenses (1)



44,139



36,001



4,954

Non-GAAP net income



7,535



103,127



14,191























Net (loss)/income margin



(0.8 %)



1.2 %



1.2 %

Add: share-based compensation expenses



1.0 %



0.6 %



0.6 %

Non-GAAP net income margin



0.2 %



1.8 %



1.8 %























Net (loss)/income attributable to ordinary shareholders



(38,726)



64,834



8,922























Add: share-based compensation expenses (1)



44,139



36,001



4,954

Non-GAAP net income attributable to ordinary

shareholders



5,413



100,835



13,876

Net (loss)/income per Class A and Class B ordinary share:



















Basic and diluted



(0.12)



0.20



-

Add: share-based compensation expenses



0.14



0.11



-

Non-GAAP net income per Class A and Class B

ordinary share:



















Basic and diluted



0.02



0.31



-





(1) Share-based compensation expenses are recognized as follows:







For the three months ended

June 30,







2023



2024



2024







RMB



RMB



US$







(Unaudited)











Fulfillment expenses



7,717



7,825



1,077

Sales and marketing expenses



2,092



1,844



254

Product development expenses



22,498



15,595



2,146

General and administrative expenses



11,832



10,737



1,477























Total



44,139



36,001



4,954



SOURCE Dingdong (Cayman) Limited
Common shares to resume trading at the opening on August 8 th , 2024

MDN operations are performing well with Q2/24 production of 16,255 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO")

Full-Year production guidance of 50,000 - 60,000 GEO at AISC of US$1,200-1,400/oz

Recent PEA results for MDN show an NPV (5%) of $111MM at $2100/oz gold over a 5-year mine plan producing an average of approximately 56,000 GEO per annum

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

Additional US$45 million cash expected between March 2025-2027 from the sale of the Monte do Carmo project in Brazil

Second crusher on site is being commissioned to support further expansion of heap leach operations

Operating cashflow continues to support the strengthening of the balance sheet

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Cerrado Gold Inc. (TSXV:CERT)(OTCQX:CRDOF) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to its news release of June 27, 2024, the Company has been advised by the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") that trading of the Company's common shares on the Exchange will resume at the opening of the market on August 8, 2024.

Further, as previously released on July 17, 2024, the Company is pleased to announce that operations at its wholly-owned Minera Don Nicolas project in Argentina continue to perform well during a typically challenging winter period. As previously announced, production for Q2 was 16,255 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") as production from the heap leach continues to perform well. A second crusher has now arrived at site and will be installed to support a further expansion of capacity at the Calandrias Sur heap leach operation.

First half of 2024, production of 27,459 GEO has been achieved. The Company is guiding for 2024 total production of between 50,000-60,000 GEO at an All-In-Sustaining Cost between US$1,200-US$1,400/oz.

Improved operating performance and ongoing strength in gold prices continue to support the repayment of local debt and payables in Argentina, and we expect to see a material reduction in our negative working capital position going forward.

In addition, as outlined in a press release dated August 6th, 2024, Cerrado announced the results of an 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 (Chile), and a summary of the results is presented below.

PEA Summary Results

The PEA highlights a robust 5-year mine life using our current inventory of mineralized material. As high-grade material from our Calandrias Norte pit is exhausted, the heap leach at Calandrias Sur and a second potential heap leach at Martinetas will generate strong cashflows, allowing the Company to support continued deleveraging while refocusing efforts on exploration to add additional high-grade ounces to the mine plan, support underground development and expand the life of mine.

Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman commented, "With operations performing well, the heap leach hitting its stride and trading resuming in our shares, we are now putting behind us what has been a very challenging period for the Company. Going forward, strong operating results leading to an improved financial position as supported by our recently completed PEA for MDN, and the potential for additional cash proceeds of US$45MM over the coming years if the option to purchase the Company's Monte Do Carmo Project in Brazil is exercised, positions Cerrado as a well-funded junior producer refocused on growth through exploration and development."

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 under option to Amarillo Mineracao Do Brasil Ltda., a subsidiary of Hochschild Mining PLC. 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

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, the trading date for the Company's common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange, the performance of the Minera Don Nicolas mine including management guidance in respect of production and costs, the strength of the price of gold, repayment of debt and working capital, the anticipated date of release of Q2 financial statements and the receipt of funds related to the sale of the Monte Do Carmo project In making the forward- ooking 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
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Ophir Metals Corp. (TSXV: OPHR) (OTCQB: OPHRF) (FSE: 80M) ("Ophir" or the "Company") is pleased to report initial results from multiple spodumene bearing pegmatite dykes discovered during the recently completed surface sampling program on the Pilipas Lithium Property (the "Property" or "Project"), located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region, Quebec. The Project is located proximal to existing hydroelectric power that flanks the Property to the east, and an all-season road that crosses the western side of the Property.

Highlights

Validation of the Highway Showing (HW1), with sixteen (16) spodumene pegmatite grab samples averaging 1.98% Li 2 O Fifteen (15) samples returned values greater than 1.0% Li2O, six (6) of which exceeded 2.3% Li2O, over a 150 m exposed strike length and 30 m width HW1 Showing remains open to the northwest

Six (6) spodumene pegmatite grab samples from a mineralized trend, the HW2 Showing, ~500 m south of HW1 returned an average of 1.18% Li2O, with two samples assaying 1.83% and 1.98% Li2O

Four outcrop samples between 1.7 to 7.5 km east of the HW1 Showing assayed between 348 ppm to 604 ppm Ta2O5

Analytical results for 138 samples remain to be received

Drill planning for a 2,000 meter summer program has been finalized with a rig expected to be mobilized soon

Nathan Schmidt, Geologist/Project Manager of Dahrouge Geological comments: "The first batch of analytical results received from the Pilipas Project to date have exceeded expectations. At the HW1 Showing, assays confirmed the visual estimates of spodumene the team observed over the 150 m strike length of exposure. Both the additional spodumene pegmatite outcrops at the HW2 Showing and the highly anomalous tantalum results to the east, show the property wide potential at Pilipas. We are excited to receive the remaining surface sample assays and test these targets at depth, with the inaugural drill program commencing in early August."

"We are incredibly excited to get the drill rig turning at Pilipas to see the extent of mineralization in three dimensions at the HW1 Showing, particularly along strike where it is completely open to the north-west," comments Shawn Westcott, CEO of Ophir Metals.

The 2024 prospecting, mapping and rock sampling program was completed on June 29th, with a total of 494 grab samples collected (437 outcrop and 57 boulder). Samples were collected from all encountered pegmatite outcrops and select boulders, regardless of visual mineralization, in addition to several samples collected for their gold potential. To date, results for 356 samples have been received from the lab, including several samples collected from the Highway (HW1) Showing. Assay results remain to be received for 138 surface samples. Sample results from HW1 demonstrate the widespread nature of the mineralization throughout the outcropping area, with 15 of the 19 pegmatite samples collected from the showing exceeding 1.0% Li2O (Figure 2).

Results for spodumene pegmatite samples collected from the HW2 Showing have also been received, highlighted by two samples with assays of 1.83% and 1.98% Li2O, and a total of six (6) samples assaying >0.5% Li2O (Figure 2). Additionally, several Lithium-Cesium-Tantalum ("LCT") pegmatite outcrops have been identified up to 7.5 km east of HW1, with four samples returning >348 ppm up to 604 ppm Ta2O5 - the highest tantalum assay received to date on the Property. Tantalum is an excellent pathfinder element for lithium in pegmatites. Collectively, these results indicate the Property wide potential of LCT-mineralized pegmatites.

The Company eagerly awaits the start of its inaugural drill program, scheduled to commence in August 2024, to test the extent and mineralization of the HW1 Showing at depth. The program is fully permitted, with crews anticipated to mobilize in early August. The proximity of the HW1 Showing to the Billy Diamond highway provides a logistical advantage for future exploration and development work.







Figure 1: Pilipas Property - 2024 rock samples assays (received to date) highlighting newly discovered spodumene pegmatite outcrops. The Ninaaskumuwin Spodumene Pegmatite on Quebec Precious Metals' Elmer East Property (bottom right) is located approximately 3.7 km southeast, on trend of the new discovery. Management cautions that discoveries on adjacent properties (i.e., Ninaaskumuwin) may not necessarily be indicative to the presence of mineralization on the Pilipas Property.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6338/219077_f762d772e47789a5_001full.jpg





Figure 2: HW1 and HW2 Showings analytical results



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6338/219077_f762d772e47789a5_002full.jpg

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

All samples were collected in the field using a hammer, chisel, and/or a battery-operated diamond bladed angle grinder. Locations were obtained using a handheld GPS or tablet with samples placed in pre-labelled sample bags. Metal tags with the sample numbers and flagging tape were left at each sample location. Samples were securely transported by field staff to SGS Canada's laboratory in Radisson, QC for standard sample preparation (code PRP90) which includes drying at 105C, crush to 90% passing 2mm, riffle split 250 g, and pulverize 85% passing 75 microns. The pulps were then shipped to SGS Canada's laboratory in Burnaby, BC where they were subsequently analyzed for multi-element (including Li and Ta) using sodium peroxide fusion with ICP-AES/MS finish (code GE_ICM91A50). A Quality Assurance/Quality Control protocol was incorporated into the program and included the insertion of certified reference material at and silica blanks at a rate of approximately 5 % and 5 %, respectively. SGS Canada is independent of the Company.

Management cautions that prospecting surface rock samples and associated assays, as discussed herein, are selective by nature and represent a point location, and therefore may not necessarily be fully representative of the mineralized horizon sampled.

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Nathan Schmidt, P. Geo., Senior Geologist for Dahrouge Geological Consulting Ltd., a registered special authorization holder with Ordre des Geologues du Quebec (AS-10512) and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101 on standards of disclosure for mineral projects.

Mr. Schmidt has verified all scientific and technical data disclosed in this news release including the sampling and QA/QC results, and certified analytical data underlying the technical information disclosed. Mr. Schmidt verified the data disclosed (or underlying the information disclosed) in this news release by reviewing the assay data; and checking the performance of blank samples and certified reference materials. Mr. Schmidt detected no significant QA/QC issues during review of the data and noted no errors or omissions during the data verification process. The Company and Mr. Schmidt do not recognize any factors of sampling that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data disclosed in this news release.

About the Pilipas Lithium Project

In December 2023, the Company entered into an option agreement with Azimut Exploration Inc (TSXV: AZM) (OTCQX: AZMTF) to earn 70% interest in the Pilipas Property consisting of 135 claims totaling 7,100 ha situated within the La Grande Subprovince (Archean Superior Province). It is primarily underlain by volcano-sedimentary rocks (Greenstone) of the Lower Eastmain Greenstone Belt: conglomerate, sandstone, basalts and felsic to intermediate tuffs. Two regional NW-SE dextral faults transect the southwestern and northeastern parts of the Property.

About the Company

Ophir Metals is a diversified mineral exploration company focused on the exploration and development of the Pilipas and Radis Lithium Properties in James Bay, Quebec, and the past-producing Breccia gold property located in Lemhi County, Idaho.

Ophir holds an option to earn a 100-per-cent interest in the Radis property over a three-year period from Eastmain Resources Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fury Gold Mines Ltd., an option to earn a 70% interest in the Pilipas property over a three-year period from Azimut Exploration Inc. and an option to earn a 100-per-cent interest in the Breccia property.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

"Shawn Westcott"

Ophir Metals Corp.

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 Note

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (collectively referred to as "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 and include statements in this press release related to the exploration and discovery potential of the Property, the details of the planned exploration and drill program on the Property, the strong lithium pegmatite exploration potential on the Property, the strong potential of the Pilipas Property, potential targets on the Property, the interpretation of exploration results, and the Company's future plans with respect to the Property. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risk related to the 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 sampling and 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 technical reports, 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, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219077

SOURCE: Ophir Metals Corp.
CHICAGO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report Suppository Packaging Marketby Material (Aluminum/Pe, Pvc/Pe), Application (Nasal, Ear, Rectal, Vaginal, Urethral), And Region (North America, Europe, Apac, South America, Mea) - Global Forecast to 2029, Suppository Packaging Market is projected to reach USD 428 million by 2029, at a CAGR of 6.5% from USD 312 million in 2024.

The suppository packaging market is driven by increasing focus on child-resistant packaging, rising importance for patient-centric packaging, increasing geriatric population, and increasing incidence of chronic diseases. Additionally, the availability of cutting-edge technology offers substantial opportunities for tamper-proof, creative material, and child-resistant suppository packaging. Supositories are packaged according to user perceptions, material qualities, formulation properties, and regulatory requirements. Considering each of these factors is necessary to develop a packaging solution that keeps the product stable and effective in relation to consumer demands.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Suppository Packaging Market".

220 - Tables

45 - Figures

240 - Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=8869604

"Aluminum/PE is the second largest material of the suppository packaging, in terms of value"

Aluminum/PE material effectively minimizes the risk of suppositories from moisture, oxygen, light and other factors leading to degradation and thus maintaining the stability and effectiveness of suppositories. This material is very durable and strong which can withstand the normal handling and transportation processes without affecting the contents. Furthermore, the material is flexible hence has the ability to be formed into various shapes and sizes hence area ability to adopt to different dimensions of suppositories. In regards to heat sealing abilities polyethylene has the best which guarantees a tight and hermetic seal on the suppositories to enhance their sterility and quality. Aluminum/PE packaging is also relatively cheaper and provides a good combination of high performance and reasonable production costs, which make it popular among manufacturers. It is commonly used in pharma market to meet the necessary standards of safety and quality, thus, providing effective solution for suppository packaging.

"Europe captures the second largest share in the suppository packaging market during the forecast period, in terms of value

The high level of medical care and well-developed healthcare system in the Europe fuels the need for efficient and quality pharmaceutical packaging. Most European countries have an aging population which leads to the demand for various treatments including those by use of suppositories. Additionally, due to the strict health standards of Europe, especially in the packaging of drugs and medication, only the best packaging material and technique is used. Furthermore, Europe's emphasis on sustainability and reduction of environmental effects encourages the utilization of environmentally-friendly packaging materials to fuel the market. The well-established regional market of pharmaceuticals along with increased spends on research and development fuels innovation in packaging methods thus boosting the overall market growth.

Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=8869604

The key players profiled in the report include are NextPharma Technologies (UK), CordenPharma (Switzerland), Recipharm AB (Sweden), Valmatic S.R.L. (Italy), Sarong S.p.A. (Italy), Key International (US), HySum Europe GmbH (Germany), FAMAR Health Care Services (Greece), Hudi Pharma HQ (Italy), Adragos Pharma (Germany), LGM Pharma (US), Aluberg s.p.a. (Italy), Delpharm (France), Unither (France), and Trefoil Packaging Pvt Ltd (India).

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Altamira Gold Corp. (TSXV: ALTA) (FSE: T6UP) (OTC Pink: EQTRF) ("Altamira" or the "Company") is pleased to update on ongoing exploration activities at the Cajueiro and Apiacas projects.

Highlights:

Results of the final two second-round diamond drillholes at the Maria Bonita discovery located within the Cajueiro project area were received and returned 32.7m @ 0.53 g/t gold in MBA030 and 46.5m @ 0.50 g/t gold in MBA031. Work continues on the analysis and interpretation of drill results.

Recent surface sampling at the Casa Branca target area of the Apiacas project, returned highly anomalous gold in all surface samples collected. Ten grab samples all contain gold greater than 0.5g/t, and average 14.5 g/t gold with two high grade values of 69g/t and 52 g/t gold.

Mineralization at Casa Branca occurs in pervasive sericite-altered porphyritic intrusive host rocks containing clots of pyritic sulphides, similar to zones of gold mineralization at the Mutum target located 10km to the west.

CEO Mike Bennett commented, "The results of the last two drillholes at the Maria Bonita discovery confirm that the porphyry gold deposit carries consistent gold mineralization from surface. We are working through the interpretation of the three-dimensional geological model to define potential zones of extension and repetition of the mineralization for further drill testing. The mineralized system remains open in several directions and at depth. Our new Casa Branca target at the Apiacas project is again intrusive hosted with disseminated gold mineralization observed on surface. Further mapping and sampling are planned in advance of reconnaissance drilling."

CAJUEIRO PROJECT

The Cajueiro project is located approximately 75km NW of the town of Alta Floresta in the state of Mato Grosso (Figure 1) in central western Brazil and is easily accessible by road and has grid power and local water supply. Cajueiro is the most advanced of three key projects that Altamira controls in the region, the other two being Apiacas and Santa Helena (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Location of the Cajueiro, Apiacas and Santa Helena projects.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/219121_ac6fc11de454ea7a_001full.jpg

The Cajueiro project has current NI 43-101 resources of 5.66Mt @ 1.02 g/t gold for a total of 185,000 oz in the Indicated Resource category and 12.66Mt @ 1.26 g/t gold for a total of 515,000 oz in the Inferred Resource category (estimated using a gold price of US$1,500/oz). Included in these totals are near-surface oxide portions of the Cajueiro resource, containing an estimated 75,000oz of gold.

Maria Bonita Target

Maria Bonita is located 7km west of the Cajueiro mineral resource and is easily accessible by road. The current drill program is a follow-up to the initial round of discovery drillholes which include 69m @ 1g/t gold (MBA005), 50m @ 1.1 g/t gold (MBA004), 55m @ 1.0 g/t gold (MBA002), 50m @ 1.0 g/t gold (MBA001) and 45m @ 1.4 g/t gold (MBA003) (See press releases dated September 7, November 16, 2022, and January 18, 2023).

Significant results previously reported as part of the current follow-up drill program include;

MBA029: 213m @ 0.8g/t gold from surface including 146m @ 1.0g/t from 23m

MBA016: 90m @ 0.6g/t gold from 14m and 65m @ 0.4g/t gold from 118m

MBA018: 105m @ 0.5g/t gold from 23m and 24m @ 0.4g/t gold from 144m

MBA020: 72m @ 0.4 g/t gold from 59m

MBA022: 53m @ 0.7 g/t gold from surface

Mapping and logging of drill core from the Maria Bonita second drill program is ongoing to identify the various phases of porphyry intrusion (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Sheeted veining from MBA0029 50,50m to 50,65m (1.0m @1,6 g/t Au) in quartz porphyry. MBA 0029 returned 146m @ 1g/t Au from 23m (see press release of May 21, 2024).

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/219121_ac6fc11de454ea7a_002full.jpg

The results of the final two drillholes from the second drill program include 32.7m @ 0.53 g/t gold in MBA030 and 46.5m @ 0.50 g/t gold in MBA031 (Table 1).

Drillhole Depth From To Length Grade Peak assay metres Metres metres metres Au g/t Au g/t DDMBA-0030 59 0 9.3 9.3 1.36 2.01 9.3 42 32.7 0.53 1.25 DDMBA-0031 59 0 12.5 12.5 0.50 0.90 12.5 59 46.5* 0.50 1.42 * open at depth

Table 1: Summary drill results, Maria Bonita drillholes MBA030 and 031.

These two short vertical HQ holes were completed primarily to provide new metallurgical samples across the grade range for further heap leach testing and optimisation. The holes were completed within the central zone of the drilling area. Sample selection and testing will proceed shortly.

APIACAS PROJECT

The Apiacas project is located approximately 120km north-west of Alta Floresta and 60km west of the Cajueiro mineral resource (Figure 1). Approximately 1 million ounces of gold is inferred to have been recovered historically (since 1980) from alluvial and eluvial sources in the district, centred on Mutum. Primary gold mineralization is poorly exposed, particularly in the large areas of former alluvial workings.

Casa Branca Target

The Casa Branca target is located 10km east of the Mutum target at Apiacas (Figure 3) and, like Apiacas, it exhibits strong sericite-pyrite alteration with disseminated gold mineralization in intrusive rocks.

Figure 3: Location of the Casa Branca prospect in relation to the main historical alluvial production centre at Mutum.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/219121_ac6fc11de454ea7a_003full.jpg

This is a newly defined prospect outside the main area of historic alluvial/eluvial production at Apiacas.

The host rock is a medium grained granitic intrusive rock with sericite alteration and clots of pyrite up to 5mm in diameter. Where the pyrite oxidises, the rock develops a characteristic "leopard spot" appearance (Figure 4). The alteration zone has potential to extend over a width of 100m.

Figure 4: Typical "leopard spot' alteration of pyrite clots associated with sericite alteration and gold mineralization at Casa Branca. All of the reconnaissance samples that were collected carry gold and there is no visual clue to the higher-grade samples i.e. no direct association with quartz veining or other structures.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/219121_ac6fc11de454ea7a_004full.jpg

A proprietary drone aeromagnetic survey has been completed and the data processed via consultant geophysicist Core Geophysics of Perth, Australia. The results indicate an association between the prospect location and a magnetic low lying to the north of a magnetite bearing intrusive whose contact is mappable on the ground (Figure 5).

Figure 5: Casa Branca prospect showing TMI drone magnetics. Alluvial artisanal miners ("garimpos") in the drainage to the east are derived from the Casa Branca prospect.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/219121_ac6fc11de454ea7a_005full.jpg

Ten samples were collected from the alteration zone exposed on surface and all returned gold values above 0.5g/t. The samples average 14.5 g/t gold with two high grade values of 69 g/t and 52 g/t gold (Table 2). Further mapping and sampling is in progress and could lead to the definition of targets for reconnaissance drilling.

Sample No g/t Au 97051 69.13 97052 2.39 97053 6.03 97054 0.9 97055 0.73 97056 0.77 97057 3.24 97058 52.72 97059 4.24 97060 4.87

Table 2: Surface reconnaissance grab sample results from the Casa Branca target at Apiacas.

Qualified Person

Guillermo Hughes, FAIG and M AusIMM., a consultant to the Company as well as a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release.

About Altamira Gold Corp.

The Company is focused on the exploration and development of gold and copper projects within western central Brazil. The Company holds 6 projects comprising approximately 190,000 hectares, within the prolific Juruena gold belt which historically produced an estimated 7 to 10Moz of placer gold. The Company's advanced Cajueiro project has NI 43-101 resources of 5.66Mt @ 1.02 g/t gold for a total of 185,000 oz in the Indicated Resource category and 12.66Mt @ 1.26 g/t gold for a total of 515,000oz in the Inferred Resource category.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

ALTAMIRA GOLD CORP.

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.

The securities described herein have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements under the U.S. Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the extension of the Warrants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "will", "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Notes

Gold analysis has been conducted by SGS method FAA505 (fire assay of 50g charge), with higher grade samples checked by FAA525. Analytical quality is monitored by certified references and blanks. Until dispatch, samples are stored under the supervision the Company's exploration office. The samples are couriered to the assay laboratory using a commercial contractor. Pulps are returned to the Company and archived. Drill holes results are quoted as down-hole length weighted intersections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219121

SOURCE: Altamira Gold Corp.
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Arun Jain's background and international experience opens new markets for AP&I's environmentally beneficial technologies

Atlantic Power & Infrastructure Corp. (OTC PINK:AWSL) is pleased to announce the appointment of Arun Jain to its Advisory Board. AP&I's Advisory Board provides extensive knowledge, feedback, analysis, and strategic guidance to the Board of Directors, supporting corporate growth both domestically and internationally. Mr. Jain brings with him a wealth of knowledge and skills, with a heightened focus on strategic planning, foreign capital markets, global contacts, risk management and sustainability.

With more than 40 years of experience in the banking, healthcare, mining and technology industries, Mr. Jain is a well-respected veteran in his field. His insight and critical thinking skills have garnered him an audience around the globe. Some of his core strengths include:

Finance, Accountancy, and Auditing

Management Consultancy

Strategic Planning

International Corporate Negotiations

Investment Banking

Some of his notable accomplishments include:

Founding partner of Silverdale Services Pvt. Limited, India's top Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) firm

Spearheading the concept of infrastructure capital finance companies in India, receiving the country's first NBFC license issued through the Reserve Bank of India

Successfully negotiating legislative amendments to stock policies regarding infrastructure projects with the Government of India

Serving as Financial Advisor for the Indian Air Force

Introducing the concept of automatic multi-level car parking to the Indian government, leading to effective policy changes to incentivize supporting infrastructure

While these are not an exhaustive list of his achievements, they certainly highlight his extensive expertise and contributions.

CEO and Chairman Kevin Bagnall expressed his delight in working with Mr. Jain: "Mr. Jain is a welcome asset to the AP&I team. As an advisor, he brings immense value to our board with his outstanding international achievements in the corporate world and his experience working with governmental departments. He will guide us in achieving our goals for the benefit of everyone. I am truly grateful he has agreed to become an advisor to the board."

About Atlantic Power & Infrastructure Corp.

Atlantic Power and Infrastructure Corp. provides environmental technologies including converting recycled car and truck tire material into proven, sustainable infrastructure products. Its flagship product Flexi-Pave's resounding strength, flexibility and porous nature which protects from land erosion has led to its use in high profile shoreline break walls and other marine and infrastructure projects. The Company's water purification technology removes harmful algae blooms from freshwater rivers and lakes, and Red Tide algae blooms from salt water. With the Agriculture Division bringing multiple benefits, including financial benefits to growers, farmers, government bodies while helping reduce the extensive and growing destruction caused by wild fires, dry areas and mounting drought conditions.

Submit enquiries to:

enquiries@apaicorp.com

Visit: https://apaicorp.com/

Tel. ++1 (727) 723-3300

Disclaimer: Shareholders and investors are strongly cautioned against placing undue reliance on information set forth within this website and these communications in making any investment decisions concerning our securities. The matters set forth in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. These risks are detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the OTCMarkets.com including the company's Annual Report, Quarterly Reports, and other periodic filings. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements. Nothing within this site is meant to be a solicitation to buy.

SOURCE: Atlantic Power & Infrastructure Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. (TSXV: LVG) ("LVG", or the "Company") - is pleased to announce that Tanzoz Minerals Ltd.'s ("TML") application to the Tanzanian Mining Commission for a 10-year renewal of the Imwelo Mining License ("ML") has been accepted subject to certain conditions. TML is required to submit updated Mining, Environmental, and Closure Plans, commit to commence development within 90 days, as well as pay the license renewal fee within 30 days for the renewal to become effective. These documents are being finalized, as well as the documentation required for transfer of the ML from TML to LVG, and are expected to be submitted and the fee paid in the coming days. This renewal secures the Company's rights to continue developing and operating the Imwelo Project, reinforcing LVG's commitment to advancing its strategic initiatives within the Lake Victoria Goldfield region.

Securing Long-term Growth and Development

Marc Cernovitch, CEO & Director, commented: "We are thrilled to have received the 10-year renewal for the Imwelo Mining License, a testament to our strong relationship with Tanzanian authorities and our dedication to sustainable mining practices. This renewal allows us to execute our long-term vision for the Imwelo Project, ensuring continued growth and development in the Lake Victoria Goldfield. We are eager to advance our mining operations and realize the full potential of this promising project."

Operational Advancements and Future Plans

Simon Benstead, Executive Chairman & CFO of the Company, stated: "The 10-year renewal of the Imwelo Mining License is a pivotal achievement for LVG, providing the stability and certainty needed to push forward with our ambitious plans. We are grateful for the continued support from our shareholders, partners, and stakeholders, as we work towards maximizing the value of our assets in Tanzania. This renewal not only strengthens our position in the region but also enhances our ability to deliver sustained value to our shareholders."

About Lake Victoria Gold (LVG):

Lake Victoria Gold is a rapidly growing gold exploration and development company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol LVG. Leveraging our unique position and experience, the Company is principally focused on growth and consolidation in the highly prolific and prospective Lake Victoria Goldfield in Tanzania.

The Company has a 100% interest in the Tembo project which has over 50 thousand meters of drilling and is located adjacent to Barrick's 20Moz Bulyanhulu Mine. The Company recently (August 10, 2023 and August 29, 2023) announced the acquisition of two deposits that support our objective of accretive growth and consolidation. The Imwelo project and Dora project both have potential for significant growth.

LVG has assembled a highly experienced team with a track record of developing, financing, and operating mining projects in Africa with management, directors and partners owning more than 60% of the shares. Notably, the Company is grateful for the validation that comes with the support and equity investment from Barrick Gold and recent strategic partnership with Taifa Group.

Taifa Group (a diverse group of companies with interests in amongst others, Mining, Telecoms, Oil & Gas, Agri Business, Pharmaceuticals and Leather) has entered into an agreement with the Company to obtain an equity stake in the Company and through its wholly owned subsidiary Taifa Mining (a wholly Tanzanian owned company), or other nominees. Taifa Mining will also carry out all the contract mining and civil works for the Imwelo project. Taifa Mining is Tanzania's largest mining contractor with over 30 years mining related experience. Taifa have been the contractor of choice to most mines in Tanzania and have maintained long and successful relationships with companies such as Petra, De Beers, Barrick, and AngloGold Ashanti. In addition, Taifa also owns the largest fleet of mining equipment in Tanzania. As a company, Taifa is committed to adopting and adhering to the latest internationally recognized standards throughout all aspects of its business.

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.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including: future exploration plans with respect to the Imwelo Project, gold production on the Imwelo Project and the timing thereof, the terms of the Acquisition and the Financing, contract work on the Imwelo Project by Taifa Mining, entering into a joint venture agreement and shareholder agreement with the Tanzanian government and the terms and timing thereof, the closing of the Acquisition and the Financing, including the satisfaction of the closing conditions thereunder and the expected timing thereof, and receipt of all regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange for the Acquisition and Financing and the Tanzania Fair Competition Commission for the Acquisition. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.

Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond LVG's control, including risks associated with or related to: the completion of the Acquisition, the Financing and related transactions, including receipt of all regulatory approvals and third-party consents, the volatility of metal prices and LVG's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving development or production, cost or other estimates; actual exploration or development plans and costs differing materially from the Company's estimates; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Tanzania and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally, including in response to the COVID-19 outbreak; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for LVG's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and LVG's reputation; and other risks disclosed in the Company's public filings.

LVG's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. LVG does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities LVG will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219089

SOURCE: Lake Victoria Gold Ltd.
Vastly expanding their availability around the world, MyShield and newly launched MyShield Next, are now integrated with partners across Europe, North and Latin America

HERZLIYA, Israel, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Essence Security, a part of Essence Group, a leading technology group developing and supplying wireless, cloud-based security solutions for homes and businesses, today announced the integration of its proactive, smoke-generating intruder prevention solution, MyShield, with major monitoring station software providers around the world - the most recent and notable being EBUS, from German software company Accellence, and American provider COPS Monitoring. Additional software providers integrated with MyShield include: ESI France, Azursoft, Insocam, NXGEN, AlarmControl, Mastermind, Moni, Shrakrak, AlarmSpace, and SoftGuard. As a result of these developments, availability of Essence's range of MyShield security smoke solutions will expand significantly across Europe, The United States, and South America.

MyShield's integration with these monitoring station software providers allows property-owners across the globe to benefit from its unprecedented level of efficacy and proactivity in deterring intruders while ensuring round-the-clock safety. MyShield's advanced detection capabilities, real-time video verification and audio warnings, on top of its swift-acting smoke intervention, enable monitoring providers to deliver swift and decisive responses to security threats, greatly improving overall safety and security for customers.

Also available through these monitoring station software providers is the MyShield Next solution, a variation of MyShield without an integrated camera, for scenarios where visual verification is unnecessary or where existing cameras are already in place. MyShield Next is also offered as a wired device for areas with no LTE CAT-M coverage and integrates seamlessly through wired input into existing security alarm systems. Highly adaptable to the specific needs of both end users and installers, MyShield Next is suitable for a variety of use cases and configurations.

"By partnering with these leading providers, we are making it possible for people around the world to experience the advanced protection offered by MyShield," said Dr. Haim Amir, CEO and Founder of Essence Group. "These integrations support our relentless pursuit of excellence in security, ensuring property owners receive the highest level of protection."

The award-winning, first-of-its-kind MyShield device deploys a veil of harmless yet disorienting smoke that fills a room in 30 seconds, forcing intruders off premises before they can cause harm to people or property. MyShield acts as a 'first responder,' significantly narrowing the window of time in which intruders can operate and providing an enhanced level of security to residential and commercial users -- particularly advantageous in high-risk environments with lone workers or unoccupied buildings where rapid response is crucial.

"Working together with Essence Security brings a new level of sophistication to our monitoring capabilities," said Hardo Naumann, General Manager for EBUS at Accellence Technologies. "MyShield's real-time intervention capabilities are setting a new benchmark in security response, and we are excited to offer this to our clients."

"We are pleased to announce our partnership with Essence to bring MyShield's cutting-edge intruder prevention capabilities to our alarm company clients and their customers across North America," stated Jim McMullen, president of COPS Monitoring. "With MyShield, security dealers now have access to an innovative security solution that can give their customers peace of mind, knowing our dispatchers will have new tools to deal with intrusions quickly and enhance the potential for mitigating loss."

Easy-to-install, MyShield's battery-powered system includes an integrated motion detector, high-definition video camera to eliminate false alarms, voice announcement and rapid action remote smoke deployment. It utilizes cellular IoT networks and can be used as a standalone app-based solution or integrated into existing security systems. The low-maintenance device can be easily moved to ensure properties have 24/7 security on demand for reliable protection.

Essence Group will be showcasing MyShield and Myshield Next at Security Essen in Essen, Germany, September 17-20 at booth #7C23. For more information or to schedule a meeting, please contact info@essence-grp.com.

About Essence Group

Essence Group is a global technology leader with a mission to develop and deploy innovative, cloud-based, end-to-end security and healthcare solutions, underpinned by supporting services, that provide peace of mind to users. For over a quarter of a century, Essence has challenged convention by making care and safety both accessible and affordable. With over 75 million connected devices deployed worldwide, Essence helps people to live safer and more independent lives.

For more information: https://www.essence-grp.com/

Follow Essence Group on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook

About Accellence Technologies

Accellence Technologies is a software development company and systems supplier with a strong commitment to competence, performance, client orientation and reliability. The focus of its product EBUS is video integration, i.e. the combination of systems from different manufacturers to create a complete video security solution and embedding of various solutions into comprehensive control center software.

About COPS Monitoring

Headquartered in Williamstown, NJ, COPS Monitoring is a leading provider of 100% wholesale professional monitoring services in North America with comprehensive redundancy. COPS' award-winning network of central stations with locations in New Jersey, Florida, and Texas is trusted by thousands of independent alarm companies to safeguard millions of homes, businesses, and institutions in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and other US territories. COPS is UL-listed, FM-approved, IQ-certified, TMA Five Diamond certified, SOC 2 Type 2 certified, and has been named Central Station of the Year by the Monitoring Association. For more information about COPS Monitoring, visit copsmonitoring.com

Essence Media Contact:

Mushkie Meyer

Headline Media

mushkie@headline.media

US: +19143364035

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2477112/Essence_Security_MyShield.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1705604/Essence_Group_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/essence-security-partners-with-top-monitoring-station-software-providers-to-integrate-the-myshield-intruder-intervention-system-worldwide-302216511.html
Public Invited to Vote for Winner of Prestigious Annual Award

OXFORD, England, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Amid continuing focus on innovative treatments for heart disease, the British Heart Foundation is inviting the public to vote for the winner of the 2024 BHF Research Project of the Year, recognising researchers and projects that have helped advance the BHF's mission to fund life-saving research. The award highlights the extraordinary BHF-funded research taking place around the UK and how it has been brought to life for the public.

Caristo is proud to announce that the BHF-funded project that led to the creation of the company and the development of the CaRi-Heart AI technology, is one of the three candidates for the award.

The CaRi-Heart technology applies advanced AI algorithms to routine heart coronary computed tomography angiogram (CCTA) scans to visualise and quantify coronary inflammation, a key driver of coronary artery disease and fatal heart attacks up to 10 years in advance, helping to guide preventive treatment for at-risk patients. This is the only technology in the world able to accurately predict cardiac events by quantifying previously invisible coronary artery inflammation. CaRi-Heart technology supported a 40,000-patient research study, which was recently published in The Lancet, demonstrating not only that it accurately predicts future cardiac events but it also leads to meaningful change in the management of nearly half the patients who used it in the UK's NHS. This technology is now clinically used by a growing list of hospitals in the UK, Europe and Australia.

Prof Antoniades, BHF Chair of Cardiovascular Medicine in the University of Oxford and lead investigator of the study, said: "I am thrilled to lead such game-changing research, with true impact on clinical care. This would have not been possible without the continuous support from the BHF over the last decade."

Those interested in learning more about Prof. Antoniades' work and that of the other award finalists can visit https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/bhf-research-story-of-the-year to cast their vote for the BHF Research Project of the Year winner.

BBC Features CaRi-Heart Technology

On August 5, the BBC One program South Todayfeatured the use of CaRi-Heart technology in five NHS Trust hospitals. The programme interviewed a 58-year-old man who was referred for a cardiac CT scan in November 2023, after experiencing persistent chest pain.

"It's a huge wake-up call," said Ian Pickford, 58, from Barwell in Leicestershire, after CaRi-Heart analysis suggested he was at risk of having a heart attack. Mr. Pickford has now been prescribed statins, told to quit smoking and exercise regularly.

About Caristo Diagnostics Limited

Caristo Diagnostics is a global leader in cardiac and vascular disease diagnostics and risk prediction. Founded in 2018 as a spin-out company from the University of Oxford, the world's #1 research university, Caristo has developed a portfolio of imaging-based and AI-assisted platforms that can be applied to aid the prediction and diagnosis of heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. Caristo has been recognized by Newsweek as one of the best digital health companies, and highlighted by Nature as one of the most exciting science-based companies to have emerged from academic labs. Find Caristo online on its website, LinkedIn and X.

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Silver Elephant Mining Corp. (TSX: ELEF) (OTCQB: SILEF) (FSE: 1P2) ("Silver Elephant" or the "Company") is pleased to announce diamond drill results from the Paca deposit ("Paca") within its 100%-controlled Pulacayo-Paca silver project in the Potosi department in Bolivia.

Further to the Company's news releases dated June 12, 2024, a total of 28 holes were drilled in the Paca north area totaling 1,458 meters. The results for the first 13 holes were announced in the Company's news release dated July 22, 2024. The assays for the next 7 holes (2 exploration, 5 infill) have been received and are reported below. The remainder of the assays are expected in August 2024.

Notable results include PC24-11 which intercepted 41.06 meters of 237 g/t silver from surface, and PC24-01 which intercepted 38.15 meters of 83 g/t silver from surface.

This drill program was paid for by Andean Precious Metals Corp. ("Andean"). Pursuant to the sales and purchase agreement ("SPA") and master services agreement detailed in the Company's news release dated September 12, 2023, Silver Elephant plans to sell and deliver up to 800,000 tonnes of Paca oxide materials to Andean for a total of between US$5 million and US$7 million depending on the silver price. At the current silver price and production run rate, the Company expects to receive US$2.5 million before January 31, 2025. Andean has also agreed to reimburse Silver Elephant for operating expenses under the SPA.

John Lee, CEO of Silver Elephant comments: "These drill hole results improve the confidence level of the Paca resource model. The exploration drill hole results continue to prove additional silver mineralization outside of existing Paca resource area. Any oxide sales exceeding 800,000 tonnes will be subject to a new off take agreement between Silver Elephant and Andean."

INFILL DRILLING HOLE ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) True Width (m) Ag (g/t) Pb (%) Zn (%) PC24-01 1.5 39.65 38.15 33.04 83 0.58 0.14 Incl. 14.15 21.65 7.5 6.50 91 0.46 1.12 Incl. 18.65 20.15 1.5 1.30 190 0.75 0.08 Incl. 26.15 39.65 13.5 11.69 140 0.55 0.15 Incl. 29.15 32.15 3 2.60 183 0.41 0.09 Incl. 33.65 38.15 4.5 3.90 198 0.84 0.14 PC24-03 0 35.3 35.3 22.69 83 0.42 0.08 Incl. 1.5 15.5 14 9.00 88 0.47 0.1 Incl. 6 7.5 1.5 0.96 155 0.18 0.08 Incl. 19.3 32.8 13.5 8.68 109 0.32 0.06 Incl. 23.8 26.8 3 1.93 156 0.32 0.04 Incl. 28.3 31.3 3 1.93 163 0.29 0.04 PC24-08 0 15 15 15.00 19 0.16 0.15 Incl. 0 3 3 3.00 31 0.21 0.16 PC24-11 2.69 43.75 41.06 29.03 237 1.1 0.1 Incl. 15 41.25 26.25 18.56 344 0.89 0.09 Incl. 15 18.75 3.75 2.65 438 0.95 0.14 Incl. 37.5 40 2.5 1.77 419 0.19 0.08 PC24-24 1.5 18.15 16.65 16.65 21 0.52 1.04 Incl. 5.4 11.31 5.91 5.91 30 0.38 0.27

EXPANSION DRILLING HOLE ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) True Width (m) Ag (g/t) Pb (%) Zn (%) PC24-04 0 31.05 31.05 31.05 46 0.2 0.06 Incl. 0 9 9 9.00 115 0.37 0.05 Incl. 1.5 4.5 3 3.00 143 0.47 0.05 Incl. 6 7.5 1.5 1.50 151 0.32 0.07 PC24-12 0 18.8 18.8 18.80 22 0.31 0.21 Incl. 13.8 16.6 2.8 2.80 36 0.75 0.4

The drill program continues to confirm a highly deformed, disseminated mineralization located within a north-south structural trend.





Figure 1



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Figure 2



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The Paca project hosts a high-grade silver resource according to a technical report by Mercator Geological Services, dated effective October 13, 2020 titled "Mineral Resource Estimate Technical Report for the Pulacayo Project, Potosi Department Antonnio Quijarro Province Bolivia" (the "Technical Report"). The mineral resource estimate from the Technical Report is as follows:

Paca Zone Category Tonnes Ag g/t Ag Moz Zn% Pb % Phase 1 Oxide In Pit Indicated 800,000 231 5.9 - - Inferred 235,000 159 1.2 - - Phase 2 Sulfide In Pit Indicated 1,810,000 256 14.9 1.22 1.22 Inferred 190,000 338 2.1 0.61 0.98

Oxide resources are based on a Pit-constrained estimate using a 90 g/t Ag cutoff. Sulfide resources are based on a pit-constrained estimate using a 200 g/t Ag Eq cutoff. Ag Eq = Silver Equivalent (Recovered) = (Ag g/t*89.2%)+((Pb%*(US$0.95/lb. Pb/14.583 Troy oz./lb./US$17 per Troy oz. Ag)*(10,000*91.9%))+((Zn%*(US$1.16/lb. Zn/14.583 Troy oz./lb./US$17 per Troy oz. Ag)*(10,000*82.9%)). Sulphide zone metal recoveries of 89.2% for Ag, 91.9% for Pb, and 82.9% for Zn were used in the Silver Equivalent (Recovered) equation and reflect metallurgical testing results disclosed previously for the Pulacayo Deposit. Matthew Harrington P. Geo. is the independent Qualified Person for the resource estimate.

The Technical Report was effective October 13, 2020 and is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. This news release includes an estimate of mineral resources as disclosed in the Technical Report. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Silver Elephant adopts industry-recognized best practices in its implementation of QA/QC methods. A geochemical standard control sample, one duplicate and one blank sample are inserted into the sample stream at every 25th sample. Samples are shipped to ALS Global Laboratories in Ururo, Bolivia for preparation. They are then shipped for analysis to ALS Global laboratories in Lima, Peru. Samples are analyzed using Intermediate Level Four Acid Digestion. Silver over limits ("ore grade") are analyzed using fire assay with a gravimetric finish. ALS Laboratories sample management system meets all the requirements of the International Standards ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015. All ALS geochemical hub laboratories are accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for specific analytical procedures.

All samples are taken from PQ or HQ diameter core were split in half by a diamond-blade masonry saw. One half of the core is submitted for laboratory analysis and the other half is preserved for reference at the Company's secured core facility. All the core is geotechnically analyzed, photographed and then logged by geologists prior to sampling.

About Pulacayo-Paca

The Paca project is part of the Company's Pulacayo-Paca project with a total indicated resource of 106.7 million oz silver, 1.4 billion pounds of zinc and 690 million pounds of lead published in the Technical Report and tabulated below. Silver Elephant and its subsidiaries have spent over $35 million on Pulacayo and Paca, which is considered to be an advanced project with over 96,000 meters of drilling, and a historic feasibility study.

Combined Pulacayo and Paca Indicated Mineral Resources Tonnes Ag g/t Pb % Zn % Oxide 2,185,000 155 - - Sulfide 45,855,000 65 0.69 1.37

Combined Indicated Mineral Resources includes Pulacayo pit-constrained and out-of-pit plus only Paca pit-constrained resources. Oxide resources use a 50 g/t Ag cutoff. Sulfide resources use a 100 g/t Ag Eq cutoff. Ag Eq = Silver Equivalent (Recovered) = (Ag g/t*89.2%)+((Pb%*(US$0.95/lb. Pb/14.583 Troyoz./lb./ US$17 per Troy oz. Ag)*(10,000*91.9%))+((Zn%*(US$1.16/lb. Zn/14.583 Troy oz./lb./US$17 per Troy oz. Ag)*(10,000*82.9%)). Sulphide zone metal recoveries of 89.2% for Ag, 91.9% for Pb, and 82.9% for Zn were used in the Silver Equivalent (Recovered) equation and reflect metallurgical testing results disclosed previously for the Pulacayo Deposit. Matthew Harrington P. Geo. is the independent Qualified Person for the resource estimate.

A subsidiary of Silver Elephant entered into a Mining Production Contract ("MPC") with Corporacion Minera de Bolivia ("COMIBOL"), a branch of the Bolivian Ministry of Mining and Metallurgy on October 3, 2019. The MPC grants the Company's subsidiary an exclusive right to develop and mine at the Pulacayo and Paca concessions for up to 30 years.

The Pulacayo-Paca Project is at the center of a major silver mining district in Bolivia and is within 250 km driving distance to the San Cristobal mine, the Cerro Rico mine, Pan American's San Vicente mine, Eloro's Iska Iska project, and New Pacific's Silver Sands project.

Qualified Person

The technical contents of this news release have been prepared under the supervision of Carlos Zamora, who is not independent of the Company in that he is employed by it. Mr. Zamora is a qualified person as defined by the guidelines of NI 43-101.

About Silver Elephant Mining Corp.

Silver Elephant is a silver mining company, with its flagship Pulacayo-Paca silver project in production since October 2023 in Bolivia.

Further information on Silver Elephant can be found at www.silverelef.com.

SILVER ELEPHANT MINING CORP.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD



"John Lee"

Executive Chairman

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is generally identifiable by use of the words "believes," "may," "plans," "will," "anticipates," "intends," "could", "estimates", "expects", "forecasts", "projects" and similar expressions, and the negative of such expressions. Such forward-looking information, which reflects management's expectations regarding Silver Elephant's future growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, is based on certain factors and assumptions and involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes the expected amount and timing for delivery of Product to Andean, and expected timing and benefits of phase 2 sulphide production for the Paca project.

Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as a guarantee of future performance, events or results, and may not be indicative of whether such events or results will actually be achieved. A number of risks and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results discussed in the forward-looking information, including but not limited to: changes in operating plans; ability to secure sufficient financing to advance the Company's project; conditions impacting the Company's ability to mine at the project, such as unfavourable weather conditions, development of a mine plan, maintaining existing permits and receiving any new permits required for the project, and other conditions impacting mining generally; maintaining cordial business relations with strategic partners and contractual counter-parties; meeting regulatory requirements and changes thereto; risks inherent to mineral resource estimation, including uncertainty as to whether mineral resources will be further developed into mineral reserves; political risk in the jurisdictions where the Company's projects are located; commodity price variation; and general market, industry and economic conditions. Additional risk factors are set out in the Company's latest annual and interim management's discussion and analysis and annual information form (AIF), available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions by management as of the date of this news release, and there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with any forward-looking information included herein. Readers are cautioned that all forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information in this news release to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date of this news release, except as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219050

SOURCE: Silver Elephant Mining Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Silver Dollar Resources Inc. (CSE: SLV) (OTCQX: SLVDF) (FSE: 4YW) ("Silver Dollar" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to the news release of July 15, 2024, it has completed the acquisition of the assets related to the Ranger-Page Project located in Shoshone County, Idaho, USA (Figure 1), which includes the option rights under the Government Gulch Option and Joint Venture Agreement and the Page Mine Mineral Rights Lease and Option Agreement.







Figure 1: Location of the Ranger-Page Project in the Coeur d'Alene Mining District.

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Project Highlights:

A drill-ready project in a world-class silver district where over 90 mines have operated since the first major lead-zinc-silver discovery was staked in 1884.

Ideally situated approximately two kilometres (km) south of Interstate 90 Freeway and the town of Smelterville, the Project features power, water, year-round access to local infrastructure and a workforce skilled in exploration and mining.

The Project comprises two contiguous patented lode claim groups - Government Gulch (403 acres) and Page Mine (802 acres) - that consolidate the western end of the Silver Valley mining corridor under a single operator for the first time.

The land package covers six historic mines with the option to acquire ownership of the Project's mineral rights, which are not currently subject to any royalties.

Surface access rights are in place to allow Silver Dollar to conduct exploration activities, and the permitting process is with the State of Idaho, no federal permitting required.

Multiple exploration targets developed over the last two years and are ready to drill after the systematic use of modern exploration techniques for the first time.

Primary target areas are up-plunge from where historical underground mining ended, near surface, and targets have been defined laterally away from the footprint of the past producing mines.

Additional drill targets not associated with the historical mining areas have also been identified.

The Project borders the Bunker Hill mine that is on track to restart mining in Q4 2024.





Figure 2: Ranger-Page fault system, historical underground mine workings, and new target zones.

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A Structurally Active Area:

The ore deposits of the Coeur d'Alene Mining District are hosted in structural features characterized by a complex network of faults and folds resulting from tectonic forces of diverse ages and movements. The district occurs at the intersection of the west-northwest-trending Osburn Fault and a north-trending anticlinal (upfolded) structure called the Noxon Arch.

The 27 km displacement of the Osburn Fault runs through the district's most productive silver belts and along the northern boundary of the Ranger-Page Project. A network of seven secondary faults transverses the Project area, with the north-south trending Page Fault (that hosts the Page Mine) at the western end and the Crown Point Fault at the eastern end intersecting the Osburn Fault. Additional faults include the east-west trending Curlew, 96, Buckeye and Spring faults and the southeast-northwest trending Government Gulch Fault (Figures 2 and 3).

Exploration Potential:

Major discoveries in the Coeur d'Alene Mining District tend to result from deep exploration down plunge of near-surface mineral showings. Narrow veins near surface can blossom into multimillion-ounce ore bodies at depth, where vein structures intersect favourable rock formations. Consequently, the district remains an active region for exploration and mining even 140 years after Ag-Pb-Zn deposits were first discovered along the South Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River.

Consistent with the exploration history of the district, the Ranger-Page Project exhibits similar discovery potential near surface and at depth. This assessment is based on the comprehensive underground mining database that provides strong evidence of high-grade mineralization continuing at depth and along strike from where historical underground mining ended, and the latest exploration results from geophysical and geochemical surveys, extensive trenching and sampling, and geological mapping that have identified new target areas with potential near-surface mineralization.1





Figure 3: Coloured areas depict IP anomalous zones dipping along faults toward the south.



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For additional information on the Ranger-Page Project see the news release of July 15, 2024.

"We are thrilled with the acquisition of the Ranger-Page Project and thank all involved for their assistance in expediting the completion of the transaction," said Mike Romanik, president of Silver Dollar. "Our immediate exploration focus is on the near-surface targets recently discovered outside of the area of the historic mines."

Transaction Summary:

The vendors assigned the assets to Silver Dollar's wholly owned subsidiary for cash consideration of $300,000 and the issuance of 6,000,000 common shares in the capital of Silver Dollar at a deemed price of $0.30 per share for aggregate consideration of $2,100,000. The shares are subject to a statutory four-month hold period and contractual escrow in accordance with the following release schedule:

Release Date Release from Contractual Escrow August 6, 2024 1,000,000 shares February 6, 2025 1,250,000 shares August 6, 2025 1,250,000 shares February 6, 2026 1,250,000 shares August 6, 2026 1,250,000 shares

The Company also paid finders' fees totaling $30,000 and 600,000 shares in respect of the acquisition. The finders' shares are subject to a statutory four-month hold period.

Mike Kilbourne, P.Geo., an independent Qualified Person (QP) as defined in NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company. The QP and the Company have not completed sufficient work to verify the information on the Ranger-Page Project, particularly regarding historical exploration, resources and production, neighbouring companies and government geological work.

About Silver Dollar Resources Inc.

Silver Dollar is a mineral exploration company that is fully funded to execute its near-term exploration plans having closed its last financing with lead orders from billionaire mining investor Eric Sprott and NYSE-listed First Majestic Silver. The Company's primary projects lie within Idaho's prolific Silver Valley and the Durango-Zacatecas silver-gold belt and include the advanced exploration stage Ranger-Page and La Joya projects and the early exploration stage Nora project. Management has an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potential acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions.

For additional information, you can download our latest presentation by clicking here and follow us on X by clicking here.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Signed "Michael Romanik"

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release may contain "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this news release.

Referenced Sources:

https://silvervalleymetals.com/projects/ranger-page-project/exploration-potential/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219091

SOURCE: Silver Dollar Resources Inc.
Unique partnership with Medtronic will enable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors based on Abbott's FreeStyle Libre sensing technology to integrate with Medtronic's insulin delivery systems

Abbott now has partnerships with four of the largest companies that develop automated insulin delivery systems - offering more choices to people around the world to benefit from connectivity with Libre technology

ABBOTT PARK, Ill., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Abbott (NYSE: ABT) today announced a unique global partnership with Medtronic to collaborate on an integrated continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system based on Abbott's most advanced, world-leading1 FreeStyle Libre technology that will connect with Medtronic's automated insulin delivery (AID) and smart insulin pen systems.

The integration of Abbott's CGM sensor with Medtronic's AID algorithms will enable automatic adjustments of insulin to keep glucose in range. The CGM sensor, designed to work exclusively with Medtronic devices, will be developed by Abbott and sold by Medtronic.

AID systems improve health outcomes while reducing the burden of constant decision-making for people with diabetes who use intensive insulin as part of their overall therapy. AID systems can benefit people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who require multiple daily injections of rapid-acting insulin, currently estimated at more than 11 million people globally2.

Financial terms of the partnership and timing for commercial availability were not disclosed.

"This partnership pairs two global leaders in glucose sensing technology and insulin delivery," said Jared Watkin, executive vice president of Abbott's diabetes care business. "Libre technology has set the standard for accurate, accessible, easy-to-use and reliable continuous glucose monitoring. Connecting this CGM built for Medtronic's insulin delivery systems and algorithms makes it easier for people to spend less time thinking about their diabetes and more time living."

"Our partnership with Abbott allows us to expand access to our advanced automated insulin delivery and smart MDI systems that deliver best-in-class outcomes with the most widely used CGM in the world," said Que Dallara, executive vice president and president, Medtronic Diabetes. "We're committed to simplifying diabetes management and making the transition to automated technology much more seamless for those who wish to achieve more with their diabetes care."

This collaboration with Medtronic is the latest in a series of Abbott partnerships aimed at improving and streamlining diabetes care, giving people more choices to confidently administer their insulin. Abbott's Libre single-analyte CGM technology is currently available and integrated with AID offerings from other insulin delivery companies.

About Abbott's Libre Systems

Abbott's Libre portfolio is the world's leading continuous glucose monitoring technology1, now used by more than 6 million people in more than 60 countries3. Clinical and real-world data from the millions of people that use Libre systems show that the technology helps people improve their glucose control, lower their HbA1c, decrease diabetes-related hospital admissions, and improve their quality of life4,5. The systems have partial or full reimbursement in more than 40 countries.

For important safety information, visit https://www.freestylelibre.us/safety-information.html

About Abbott:

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 114,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries. Connect with us at?www.abbott.com?and on?LinkedIn,?Facebook,?Instagram,?X?and?YouTube.

Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care. Based on the number of patients assigned to each manufacturer. Fortune Business Insights: Top Reasons Driving the Demand for Insulin Pumps, 2021 Data on file, Abbott Diabetes Care. The American Journal of Managed Care,?Flash CGM Associated With Event Reduction in Nonintensive Diabetes Therapy, 2021. American Diabetes Association,?Continuous Glucose Monitors, accessed March 20, 2024.

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Partnership Expands Reach of C2N's Precivity Blood Tests in Over 75 Countries to Transform Alzheimer's Disease Early Diagnosis and Research

Agreement Plans to Facilitate a Technology Transfer of C2N's Proprietary Portfolio of Alzheimer's Blood Biomarkers to Deliver a Unilabs Testing Network Across Europe

Unilabs ("Unilabs"), a leading international provider of diagnostic services, and C2N Diagnostics, LLC ("C2N"), a pioneer in advanced diagnostic solutions in the field of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related neurological disorders, today announced a major milestone in brain health diagnostics and research across Europe and beyond.

Unilabs and C2N have signed a multi-year partnership agreement that will increase access to C2N's Precivity portfolio of blood tests on an exclusive basis in Europe, including Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The agreement will also provide access in Peru, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

"Alzheimer's disease is on the rise, making it essential to innovate by offering less invasive and more accessible diagnostic procedures for patients," said Unilabs' Head of Innovation Dr. Rahul Chaudhary. "All too often, diagnosing Alzheimer's has been painful, invasive and expensive. This partnership will transform the diagnostic experience for patients with cognitive concerns while revolutionizing early diagnosis, and research efforts, and positively impacting long-term outcomes."

He continued, "C2N's Precivity portfolio of blood tests and its innovative biomarker pipeline offer the highest performance precision tools in the industry1. We expect these innovations to appeal to healthcare providers in Europe, the Gulf Region and Latin America who rely on us, and to our biopharma collaborators who are developing new therapies. Patients worldwide deserve access to an early diagnosis, leveraging personalized medicine tools that can enable better treatment decisions and activate long-term disease prevention strategies. We are confident these tests can help in achieving better outcomes for patients, as we continue in our mission to power health and maximize life."

C2N's Precivity portfolio of blood tests aid healthcare providers and researchers in the detection of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary "tau" tangles in the brain, which are pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. These tests also help to inform medical management and treatment decisions based on the underlying causes of dementia.

This strategic partnership also plans to facilitate a technology transfer of C2N's proprietary portfolio of Alzheimer's blood biomarkers to deliver a Unilabs testing network across Europe, ensuring Precivity testing can be performed at qualified healthcare institutions with the same quality, consistency and accuracy currently delivered at C2N's central CAP/CLIA lab in St. Louis, Mo.

Both companies believe this partnership will transform global Alzheimer's disease diagnosis for patients with cognitive concerns or at high risk of future AD or AD-related dementias.

Healthcare Sector Eager for Easy-to-Access, Less Invasive Tests

C2N previously announced in 2020 that the PrecivityAD blood test achieved the CE Mark from the European Union (EU) and also has In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation legacy device status under Regulation (EU) 2017/746, which allows for commercial availability in the EU as an in vitro diagnostic to aid in the evaluation of patients with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. In addition, the United Kingdom's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency approved the PrecivityAD blood test as an in vitro diagnostic to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

C2N CEO Dr. Joel Braunstein said, "The sobering impact of Alzheimer's disease reaches beyond any one country's borders and that's why it's vital we respond to the global interest in our Precivity blood tests. We believe this collaboration allows for the acceleration of equitable access to the highest quality blood biomarkers that can aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. To date, we've secured other international arrangements, and now, we're very proud to enter this multi-faceted strategic affiliation with Unilabs, an organization that places a premium on quality in testing and in personalized diagnostics for Alzheimer's disease."

The PrecivityAD2 and PrecivityAD blood tests use highly sensitive and specialized laboratory technologies to identify and measure certain proteins that are found in the blood and that are known to be associated with the presence of brain amyloid plaques, one of the brain pathology findings of Alzheimer's disease. The main test result is a clinically validated score that determines a patient's likelihood category for the presence of brain amyloid plaques. Like other tests that evaluate for brain amyloid pathology in clinical patients, such as amyloid PET scan or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing, the Precivity blood tests can be used by healthcare providers to interpret the test results, along with other medical information.

The tests are intended for use in patients 55 years and older with signs or symptoms of mild cognitive impairment or dementia. These tests are only available for order by qualified healthcare providers.

C2N and Unilabs expect the Precivity portfolio of blood tests will become available to Unilabs customers over the coming months, depending on geographic region. To inquire further about timelines for a specific country please email globalinfo@c2n.com or globalinfo@unilabs.com.

About C2N Diagnostics, LLC

C2N is a specialty diagnostics company with a vision to bring Clarity Through Innovation. C2N strives to provide exceptional clinical laboratory services and advanced diagnostic solutions in the field of brain health. C2N's high-resolution mass spectrometry-based biomarker services and products are used for: clinical decision-making to improve patient care, including diagnosis and treatment monitoring; maximizing the quality and efficiency of clinical trials that test novel treatments for neurodegeneration; and providing innovative tools to help healthcare researchers better understand novel mechanisms of disease, identify new treatment targets, and conduct important epidemiologic studies to improve global public health. C2N assays have been used in over 150 Alzheimer's disease and other research studies throughout the U.S. and the world. This includes landmark treatment and prevention trials involving disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that are changing the trajectory of Alzheimer's disease. C2N has ongoing collaborations with multi-national pharmaceutical and biotech companies, leading academic institutions, National Institute on Aging, Alzheimer's Association, and other non-profits and consortiums. Over 30,000 Precivity-related biomarker measures have been reported through peer-reviewed publications, with many more manuscripts currently under review. C2N has partnered with numerous leading clinical diagnostic labs throughout the world to offer expanded Precivity testing access to providers and patients, including Grupo Fleury in Brazil and Healius Pathology in Australia for clinical use, and with Mediford Corporation in Japan for research purposes. C2N also recently announced it has entered into a non-exclusive agreement with Mayo Clinic Laboratories.

The company acknowledges generous support from National Institute on Aging, GHR Foundation, Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation, Alzheimer's Association and BrightFocus Foundation. For more information visit www.C2N.com.

About Unilabs

Unilabs is a leading international provider of diagnostic services offering a complete range of laboratory, pathology, genetics and imaging services to patients across four continents.

With over 13,000 people in 15 countries, Unilabs invests heavily in technology, equipment and people using digital technologies in its state-of-the-art laboratories and imaging institutes to improve the lives of close to 100 million people every year. For more information visit www.unilabs.com

Key publications on the Precivity Portfolio of Tests, more at www.precivityad.com/publications-clinical-use

PrecivityAD2

Palmqvist S, Tideman P, Mattsson-Carlgren N, et al. Blood Biomarkers to Detect Alzheimer Disease in Primary Care and Secondary Care. JAMA , 2024. https://doi:10.1001/jama.2024.13855

, 2024. https://doi:10.1001/jama.2024.13855 Matthew R. Meyer, Kristopher M. Kirmess, et.al. Clinical validation of the PrecivityAD2 blood test: A mass spectrometry-based test with algorithm combining %p-tau217 and A42/40 ratio to identify presence of brain amyloid. Alzheimer's Dement, 2024. https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.13764

PrecivityAD

Hu Y, Kirmess KM, Meyer MR, et al. Assessment of a plasma amyloid probability score to estimate amyloid positron emission tomography findings among adults with cognitive impairment . JAMA Netw Open. 2022; 2022. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.8392

. 2022; 2022. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.8392 Fogelman I, West T, Braunstein JB, et al. Independent study demonstrates amyloid probability score accurately indicates amyloid pathology. Ann Clin Transl Neurol, 2023. doi.org/10.1002/acn3.51763

2023. doi.org/10.1002/acn3.51763 Monane MM, Johnson KG, Snider, BJ, et al. A blood biomarker test for brain amyloid impacts clinical decision making among memory specialists in the evaluation of cognitive impairment. Ann Clin Transl Neurol, 2023 http://doi.org/10.1002/acn3.51863

2023 http://doi.org/10.1002/acn3.51863 Canestaro et al, Use of a Blood Biomarker Test Improves Economic Utility in the Evaluation of Older Patients Presenting with Cognitive Impairment; Population Health Management, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1089/pop.2023.0309

Head-to-head technology comparisons of blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease1

Janelidze et al . Head-to-head comparison of 10 plasma phosphor-tau assays in prodromal Alzheimer's disease. Brain, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awac333

2023. https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awac333 Janelidze et al. Head-to-head comparison of 8 plasma amyloid-beta 42/40 assays in Alzheimer's disease . JAMA Neurology , 2021. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2784411

. , 2021. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2784411 Schindler, et al. Effect of Race on Prediction of Brain Amyloidosis by Plasma A42/A40, Phosphorylated Tau, and Neurofilament Light. Neurology, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000200358

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Contacts:

For C2N Diagnostics

COMPANY CONTACT:

Joni Henderson

JHenderson@c2n.com

314-464-0009

MEDIA CONTACT:

Adam Shapiro

Adam.Shapiro@ASPR.bz

202-427-3603

For Unilabs

Unilabs Press Office

pressoffice@unilabs.com
Partnership Expands Reach of C2N's Precivity Blood Tests in Over 75 Countries to Transform Alzheimer's Disease Early Diagnosis and Research

Agreement Plans to Facilitate a Technology Transfer of C2N's Proprietary Portfolio of Alzheimer's Blood Biomarkers to Deliver a Unilabs Testing Network Across Europe

ST. LOUIS, Miss. and GENEVA, SWITZERLAND, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Unilabs ("Unilabs"), a leading international provider of diagnostic services, and C2N Diagnostics, LLC ("C2N"), a pioneer in advanced diagnostic solutions in the field of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related neurological disorders, today announced a major milestone in brain health diagnostics and research across Europe and beyond.

Unilabs and C2N have signed a multi-year partnership agreement that will increase access to C2N's Precivity portfolio of blood tests on an exclusive basis in Europe, including Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The agreement will also provide access in Peru, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

"Alzheimer's disease is on the rise, making it essential to innovate by offering less invasive and more accessible diagnostic procedures for patients," said Unilabs' Head of Innovation Dr. Rahul Chaudhary. "All too often, diagnosing Alzheimer's has been painful, invasive and expensive. This partnership will transform the diagnostic experience for patients with cognitive concerns while revolutionizing early diagnosis, and research efforts, and positively impacting long-term outcomes."

He continued, "C2N's Precivity portfolio of blood tests and its innovative biomarker pipeline offer the highest performance precision tools in the industry1. We expect these innovations to appeal to healthcare providers in Europe, the Gulf Region and Latin America who rely on us, and to our biopharma collaborators who are developing new therapies. Patients worldwide deserve access to an early diagnosis, leveraging personalized medicine tools that can enable better treatment decisions and activate long-term disease prevention strategies. We are confident these tests can help in achieving better outcomes for patients, as we continue in our mission to power health and maximize life."

C2N's Precivity portfolio of blood tests aid healthcare providers and researchers in the detection of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary "tau" tangles in the brain, which are pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. These tests also help to inform medical management and treatment decisions based on the underlying causes of dementia.

This strategic partnership also plans to facilitate a technology transfer of C2N's proprietary portfolio of Alzheimer's blood biomarkers to deliver a Unilabs testing network across Europe, ensuring Precivity testing can be performed at qualified healthcare institutions with the same quality, consistency and accuracy currently delivered at C2N's central CAP/CLIA lab in St. Louis, Mo.

Both companies believe this partnership will transform global Alzheimer's disease diagnosis for patients with cognitive concerns or at high risk of future AD or AD-related dementias.

Healthcare Sector Eager for Easy-to-Access, Less Invasive Tests

C2N previously announced in 2020 that the PrecivityAD blood test achieved the CE Mark from the European Union (EU) and also has In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation legacy device status under Regulation (EU) 2017/746, which allows for commercial availability in the EU as an in vitro diagnostic to aid in the evaluation of patients with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. In addition, the United Kingdom's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency approved the PrecivityAD blood test as an in vitro diagnostic to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

C2N CEO Dr. Joel Braunstein said, "The sobering impact of Alzheimer's disease reaches beyond any one country's borders and that's why it's vital we respond to the global interest in our Precivity blood tests. We believe this collaboration allows for the acceleration of equitable access to the highest quality blood biomarkers that can aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. To date, we've secured other international arrangements and now, we're very proud to enter this multi-faceted strategic affiliation with Unilabs, an organization that places a premium on quality in testing and in personalized diagnostics for Alzheimer's disease."

The PrecivityAD2 and PrecivityAD blood tests use highly sensitive and specialized laboratory technologies to identify and measure certain proteins that are found in the blood and that are known to be associated with the presence of brain amyloid plaques, one of the brain pathology findings of Alzheimer's disease. The main test result is a clinically validated score that determines a patient's likelihood category for the presence of brain amyloid plaques. Like other tests that evaluate for brain amyloid pathology in clinical patients, such as amyloid PET scan or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing, the Precivity blood tests can be used by healthcare providers to interpret the test results, along with other medical information.

The tests are intended for use in patients 55 years and older with signs or symptoms of mild cognitive impairment or dementia. These tests are only available for order by qualified healthcare providers.

C2N and Unilabs expect the Precivity portfolio of blood tests will become available to Unilabs customers over the coming months, depending on geographic region.

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VANCOUVER, BC AND HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV:RSLV)(OTCQX:RSNVF)(FRA:4ZC) ("Reyna Silver") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an arrangement agreement dated August 7, 2024 (the "Agreement") with Reyna Gold Corp. ("Reyna Gold"), pursuant to which Reyna Silver has agreed to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Reyna Gold (the "REYG Shares") by way of a statutory plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the "Transaction").

Strategic Highlights and Benefits of the Transaction

Consolidates Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold's current joint option of the Gryphon Summit Project.

Represents an opportunity for Reyna Silver to acquire and explore or monetize Reyna Gold's attractive gold properties in Mexico.

Creates a larger-scale entity with increased access to capital to enable the financing of continuing exploration of Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold's combined exploration portfolio.

Eliminates duplicate back end administrative and regulatory costs by eliminating one public issuer.

The combined entity will be well capitalized to increase the value of its improved project portfolio, supported by its strong executive management team and Board of Directors.

The Transaction is an arm's length transaction and provides REYG Shareholders with a premium of approximately 48% based on each company's respective 20-day volume-weighted average price ("VWAP"). The Transaction positions the combined entity of Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold to become a leading significant silver-lead-zinc-copper exploration company with an expanded portfolio of prospective base and precious metals assets in the United States and Mexico.

"The proposed acquisition of Reyna Gold by Reyna Silver represents a significant opportunity for our companies and stakeholders alike," said Jorge Ramiro Monroy, CEO of Reyna Silver. "The resulting operational efficiencies, consolidation of management teams, and unification of vision make this move advantageous for our stakeholders. This move unlocks Reyna Silver's ability to realize the full value of the Gryphon Summit Project, which is currently a joint venture between the two companies. The drill rig starts turning soon, and we look forward to delivering results to the newly unified stakeholders in the fall."

Under the terms of the Agreement, each holder of REYG Shares (a "REYG Shareholder" and, collectively, the "REYG Shareholders") will receive one (1) common share of Reyna Silver (a "RSLV Share") for every three (3) REYG Shares held (the "Consideration"). The value of the Consideration represents an approximate 48% premium to REYG Shareholders, based on the 20 day VWAP of the RSLV Shares and the REYG Shares as of August 2, 2024 on the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"). Upon completion of the Transaction, REYG Shareholders will hold approximately 10% of the issued and outstanding RSLV Shares and existing RSLV Shareholders will hold approximately 90% of the issued and outstanding RSLV Shares, excluding any shares issued in connection with the Debt Conversion (as defined below).

As part of the Transaction, all outstanding options of Reyna Gold will vest immediately and be exchanged for the number of options to purchase RSLV Shares based on the exchange ratio outlined in the Agreement.

In connection with the Transaction, Reyna Gold will assign and Reyna Silver will assume all of Reyna Gold's right, title, interest and obligations under the Property Option Agreement dated August 29, 2023 among Golden Gryphon USA Inc. (the "Gryphon Option Agreement"), Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold with respect to the Gryphon Summit Project.

In addition, it is expected that immediately prior to Transaction, up to $117,000.00 in accrued amounts payable by Reyna Gold (including accrued amounts owing, directly or indirectly, to certain directors and officers of Reyna Gold for accrued directors' fees and management fees) will be converted (the "Debt Conversion") into REYG Shares at a price of $0.05 per REYG Share. Further, all change of control payments payable to officers of Reyna Gold under executive compensation agreements will be waived in connection with the Transaction.

Additional Details on the Transaction

Completion of the Transaction will, among other things, require the approval of: (i) at least two-thirds of the votes cast by the REYG Shareholders; and (ii) if required, a simple majority of the votes cast by REYG Shareholders, excluding for this purpose the votes of "related parties" and "interested parties" and other votes required to be excluded under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions, with all votes to occur at a special meeting of REYG Shareholders expected to take place in September 2024 (the "Reyna Gold Meeting"). No shareholder vote is required by RSLV Shareholders. The Agreement includes covenants typical for transactions of this nature, including non-solicitation covenants.

The Transaction is expected to close in September of 2024, subject to the satisfaction (or waiver) of a number of conditions precedent, including, but not limited to receipt of all regulatory approvals, including the approval of the Supreme Court of British Columbia and the TSXV, assignment of the Gryphon Option Agreement and completion of the Debt Conversions.

The Transaction has the full endorsement of both the boards of Reyna Gold and Reyna Silver upon the recommendation of a special committee of independent directors of each respective board with the mandate to evaluate the proposed transaction. Certain directors sit on the boards of both Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold and accordingly are not members of either special committee. The special committee of Reyna Gold has received advice from its advisors, and has reviewed a fairness opinion from Evans & Evans, Inc., and has unanimously determined that the Transaction is in the best interests of Reyna Gold and will recommend that REYG Shareholders vote in favour of the Transaction.

Full details of the Transaction will be included in the management information circular (the "Circular") of Reyna Gold describing the matters to be considered at the Reyna Gold Meeting, which is expected to be mailed to the REYG Shareholders in August 2024. A copy of the Agreement is presently available, and a copy of the Circular will be made available following its mailing, on the SEDAR+ profile of Reyna Gold at www.sedarplus.ca .

Advisors

Evans & Evans, Inc. has provided a fairness opinion to Reyna Gold in connection with the Transaction. Edwards, Kenny & Bray LLP is acting as legal counsel to Reyna Silver. Segev LLP is acting as legal counsel to the Reyna Gold special committee and Founders LLP is acting as legal counsel to the Reyna Silver special committee.

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Reyna Silver Corp.

Jorge Ramiro Monroy

Chief Executive Officer

T: +1 (778) 504-1344

E: info@reynasilver.com

www.reynasilver.com

About Reyna Silver Corp.

Reyna Silver is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company. Reyna Silver focuses on exploring for high-grade, district-scale silver deposits in Mexico and the United States. In Nevada USA, Reyna Silver has entered into an option to acquire 70% of the 10,300-hectare "Gryphon Summit Project" in a 50/50 partnership with Reyna Gold. 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 Reyna Silver is exploring a potentially significant Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper CRD-skarn-Porphyry system. Reyna Silver'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.

About Reyna Gold Corp.

Reyna Gold is a gold exploration company focused on district-scale exploration. Reyna Gold has a portfolio of assets on the Mojave-Sonora Megashear and the Sierra Madre Gold in Mexico, and a joint option with Reyna Silver to acquire the 10,300-hectare combined Carlin-style and CRD Gryphon Summit Project in Eureka Co., Nevada, USA. Reyna Gold has an experienced management team with a proven track record of wealth creation through project discovery, advancement, and monetization.

Forward Looking Information

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information under applicable Canadian, United States and other applicable securities laws, rules and regulations, including, without limitation, statements with respect to: the completion of the Transaction, the assignment of the Gryphon Option Agreement, the conditions to the completion of the Transaction that must be fulfilled, including approval of the Transaction by the REYG Shareholders, the timing receipt and anticipated effects of court, regulatory and other consents and approvals, and the anticipated benefits and advantages of the Transaction. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward looking information and are based on Reyna Silver's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include, among others, risks related to failure to receive approval by REYG Shareholders, the required court, regulatory and other consents and approvals to effect the Transaction, the possibility that the Agreement could be terminated in certain circumstances, and the other risks factors set forth in the "Risk Factors" section in Reyna Silver's latest management discussion and analysis dated May 30, 2024. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Reyna Silver. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and Reyna Silver undertakes no 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 securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

Information About Each Company

Information in this news release about Reyna Silver has been provided by, and is the responsibility of Reyna Silver. For further information about Reyna Silver, please refer to Reyna Silver's filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities under its issuer profile on SEDAR+. Information in this news release about Reyna Gold has been provided by, and is the responsibility of, Reyna Gold. For further information about Reyna Gold, please refer to Reyna Gold's filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities under its issuer profile on SEDAR+.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Reyna Silver Corp.

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Binance sets a new benchmark on YouTube, driving blockchain adoption through innovative education and strategic brand partnerships

DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Binance , the global blockchain ecosystem behind the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, today announced it has reached one million subscribers on its official YouTube channel becoming the first crypto brand to reach this milestone.

The success of its educational content, including explainer videos and product tutorials, and notably its content around its leading partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo aimed at bringing new users and fan engagement in the blockchain ecosystem through Web3, are attributed to the fast growth of Binance's YouTube channel.

"Finance" has ranked among the top three YouTube searches globally over the past five years, according to Google. Binance Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Rachel Conlan explains this trend and how Binance's YouTube content supports its goal of driving sustainable financial innovation and adoption through education.

"Our goal is to build the industry responsibly by educating people about Web3 and crypto. YouTube is a key part of this strategy, reaching a global audience that is more financially curious and literate than ever. The fast adoption of crypto shows that digital assets are becoming a significant part of the global economy," said Conlan.

In June 2024, Binance surpassed 200 million users, doubling its user base in just two years. This rapid growth signals a broader shift from early adopters to the early majority in the crypto industry. "Reaching 200 million users reflects the growing financial curiosity and awareness among the broader public," said Conlan. "To celebrate achieving this milestone, we'll enhance our YouTube content, focusing on edutainment and new content series to position Binance as the go-to platform for the next one billion users, furthering financial freedom worldwide."

About Binance

Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 200 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means. For more information, visit: https://www.binance.com

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Celonis, the global leader in Process Mining and Process Intelligence. today announced that it leapt 4 places to No. 13 on the Forbes 2024 Cloud 100 list, the definitive ranking of the top 100 performing private cloud companies in the world. Appearing on the list for the sixth consecutive year, this ranking acknowledges Celonis for its AI-powered Process Intelligence (PI) platform, which enables customers to effectively deploy AI and delivers massive value across the top, bottom and green lines.

"We are not just in the Age of AI, but we are in the Era of Efficiency. Process Intelligence is critical for organizations to generate value from their business operations and technology investments, especially AI. In fact, there is no enterprise AI without PI," said Alex Rinke, co-CEO and co-founder of Celonis. "We are honored to be recognized on this year's list for shaping the future of enterprise AI and will continue to focus on bolstering our Process Intelligence platform with new innovations that deliver deep and lasting value to our customers."

Celonis serves roughly 50% of the top 200 of the Forbes Global 2000 and has to date identified in excess of $18 billion in value for its customers across thousands of processes, systems, and industries. Companies such asAutodesk, BMW Group, ERGO Group, GE HealthCare, Ingram Micro, Lufthansa Group and State of Oklahoma are using Celonis to optimize business performance, free up billions in cash savings, and reduce their carbon footprint. In addition, industry analysts from Gartner and Everest Group have recognized Celonis as the world's leading process intelligence platform. The company has also been recognized as New York and Germany's most valuable startup, is the only German decacorn, the second largest unicorn in Europe and one of only 43 in the world.

Last fall, Celonis launched the Process Intelligence Graph (PI Graph), which sits at the heart of the company's Process Intelligence platform. Utilizing Celonis' industry-leading process mining technology, the PI Graph builds a system-agnostic digital twin of a business covering the unique business context in which the organization operates, defining what makes something "good" or "bad" for the business. It shows how a business is running and how it can run better.

Celonis provides the necessary process context to deliver meaningful enterprise AI. Consumer AI thrives on a wealth of data (e.g. books, web pages, etc.) and contextual understanding (e.g. Wikipedia, online archives, etc.). In the enterprise, there's ample raw data from IT systems (ERP, CRM, etc.), but no reference layer to connect all the disparate information. The Celonis PI Graph provides this context with a semantic layer that sits above the data to give it meaning. It understands both the current "as is" state and the future "to be" state of the business. By understanding the delta between these states and providing context, the PI Graph is a key enabler for technologies like automation and enterprise AI.

The extensible Celonis data model allows third-parties to contribute to this context layer, creating a true Wikipedia for process intelligence. This context feeds process insights into an organization's AI tool set including agents, copilots, and applications. Celonis also leverages this context to power its own AI offerings including copilots, AI apps, and custom AI solutions. The platform's AI-enabled features, such as the Process Copilot and redesigned Studio, streamline the identification of value opportunities and app development within the Celonis ecosystem. These tools leverage AI to accelerate business transformation and improve decision-making processes????.

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 (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help ofa 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."

"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."

The Forbes 2024 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists are published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100. Highlights of the list appear in the August/September 2024 issue of Forbes magazine.

About Celonis

Since 2011, Celonis has helped thousands of the world's largest and most esteemed companies yield immediate cash impact, radically improve customer experience, and reduce carbon emissions. Its Process Intelligence platform uses industry-leading process mining technology and AI to present companies with a living digital twin of their end-to-end processes. For the first time, everyone in an organization has a common language for how the business runs, visibility into where value is hiding, and the ability to capture it. Celonis is headquartered in Munich, Germany and New York City, USA with more than 20 offices worldwide.

2024 Celonis SE. All rights reserved. Celonis and the Celonis "droplet" logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Celonis SE in Germany and other jurisdictions. All other product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Find out more at celonis.com

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AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) to A+ (Superior) from A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) to "aa-" (Superior) from "a+" (Excellent) of Lloyd's (United Kingdom), Lloyd's Insurance Company (China) Limited (Lloyd's China) (China), and Lloyd's Insurance Company S.A. (Lloyd's Europe) (Belgium). Concurrently, AM Best has upgraded the Long-Term ICR to "a+" (Excellent) from "a" (Excellent) of Society of Lloyd's (the Society) (United Kingdom) and the Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings to "a" (Excellent) from "a-" (Excellent) on the GBP 306 million 4.750% subordinated loan notes maturing 30 October 2024, as well as on the GBP 300 million 4.875% subordinated notes maturing 7 February 2047. The outlooks of these Credit Ratings (ratings) have been revised to stable from positive. (See further rating actions on various syndicates below.)

The ratings reflect Lloyd's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, very favourable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

The upgrading of the ratings reflects the Lloyd's market's (the market) excellent position in the global general insurance and reinsurance markets as a leading writer of specialty property/casualty risks, together with its strengthened balance sheet fundamentals and proven risk management capabilities. The growing size of the market demonstrates its ability to attract and retain investors due to its unique business proposition that offers a capital efficient structure and the ability to write business globally.

Lloyd's balance sheet strength is underpinned by risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). Capital adequacy is supported by a robust risk-based approach to setting member-level capital and Lloyd's Central Fund, which is available to meet the policyholder obligations of all Lloyd's members. The protection afforded to members through the Central Fund was enhanced in 2021, following the purchase of Central Fund insurance by the Corporation of Lloyd's (the Corporation), which was renewed for another five years in 2024. AM Best's assessment of the balance sheet strength of Lloyd's considers the fungibility constraints of capital held at the member level and the market's good financial flexibility, which is enhanced by the diversity of its capital providers.

The market's exposure to catastrophe risk is an offsetting factor. However, the requirement for members to replenish their funds at Lloyd's to meet their underwriting liabilities, as part of the 'Coming into Line' process, together with the Corporation's enhanced oversight of accumulation risk, partly mitigates the potential for volatility in risk-adjusted capitalisation due to operating losses.

The operating performance assessment reflects AM Best's expectation that the market will produce strong underwriting performance over the underwriting cycle and that capital will continue to be attracted to Lloyd's. Improved pricing conditions, as well as the robust performance oversight by the Corporation, materialised in measurable improvements in underwriting performance over recent years. Nonetheless, the market's expense ratio continues to be higher than those of its peers. Actions are being taken through the Future at Lloyd's initiative to reduce the cost of placing business at Lloyd's, although any benefits will likely take time to materialise.

The ratings of Lloyd's China and Lloyd's Europe reflect reinsurance support from Lloyd's in the form of quota share contracts between Lloyd's and the syndicates, which are active in its Chinese and European platforms.

The ratings of the Society are notched from the ratings of Lloyd's, reflecting the unique relationship between the Society and Lloyd's, which means that the ability of the Society to meets its obligations is inextricably linked to the ability of Lloyd's to meet its obligations.

The Lloyd's market ratings are the "floor of security" of all policies written at Lloyd's across all Syndicates.

AM Best has also upgraded the FSR to A+ (Superior) from A (Excellent) and the Long-Term ICR to "aa-" (Superior) from "a+" (Excellent) for the following Lloyd's syndicates. The outlooks of these ratings have been revised to stable from positive.

-Lloyd's Syndicate 2001, managed by Amlin Underwriting Ltd

-Lloyd's Syndicate 2623, managed by Beazley Furlonge Limited

-Lloyd's Syndicate 623, managed by Beazley Furlonge Limited

-Lloyd's Syndicate 3623, managed by Beazley Furlonge Limited

-Lloyd's Syndicate 3622, managed by Beazley Furlonge Limited

-Lloyd's Syndicate 33, managed by Hiscox Syndicates Ltd

-Lloyd's Syndicate 3000, managed by Markel Syndicate Management Limited

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best's Credit Ratings, Best's Performance Assessments, Best's Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best's Ratings Assessments

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright 2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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Kanika Thukral

Associate Director, Analytics

+44 20 7397 0327

kanika.thukral@ambest.com

Tim Prince

Director, Analytics

+44 20 7397 0320

timothy.prince@ambest.com

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Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

al.slavin@ambest.com
Justice for Change pro bono recipients will be equipped with Relativity aiR for Review to further harness the power of AI for social good

CHICAGO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Relativity, a global legal technology company, today announced ahead of ILTACON 2024 that qualifying pro bono recipients of the company's Justice for Change program will have free access to the generative AI-powered document review solution, Relativity aiR for Review, once generally available this September.

"Adding generative AI to the Justice for Change offerings is part of our commitment to provide the best technology and support for organizations working toward closing the gap in access to justice," said Phil Saunders, CEO of Relativity. "Generative AI, when applied thoughtfully and responsibly, has immense potential to advance equity and make a meaningful impact. For often under-resourced pro bono teams, the valuable time saved with our technology enables them to take on more matters and ultimately help more people."

Increasing Access to Justice with Generative AI

Justice for Change pro bono recipients supported by a current RelativityOne partner or provider will be able to request access to use aiR for Review free of cost, enabling faster, more accurate, and insightful document review. Powered by generative AI, the solution provides detailed rationale and citations alongside predictions to help teams fully understand their data and results.

"Since we began collaborating with a nonprofit legal organization through Relativity's Justice for Change program in 2022, Cimplifi has been able to host nearly 3 TB of data, encompassing documents, media, and testimony that all play a crucial role in shaping civil and criminal precedent. We are thrilled to learn that Relativity aiR for Review will be offered as part of the Justice for Change program, further enhancing our capacity to support this essential work," said Kristen Floyd, Associate Director, Strategic Engagements and Chairperson of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee at Cimplifi. "Access to generative AI-based technology will be a game-changer for Justice for Change participants, enhancing equity and accessibility. This work is vital to protecting our civil liberties and underscores the importance of accessible, efficient and reliable data solutions in the pursuit of justice."

Through the Justice for Change program, Relativity aims to increase access to justice and empower pro bono recipients to tackle social and racial justice issues by using RelativityOne to make sense of data. Justice for Change pro bono recipients will not only have access to cutting-edge AI legal technology, but also to dedicated training, support, and community resources from Relativity and their ecosystem of partners. Currently, Justice for Change supports over 150 active matters, with 50 organizations leveraging Relativity on justice-oriented cases and projects and over 4 million documents reviewed through Relativity.

Additionally, qualifying Justice for Change recipients will have free access to forthcoming Relativity aiR products and Translate in RelativityOne which leverages generative AI to streamline multi-lingual reviews. These products will enable Justice for Change hosting partners to handle complex and diverse data sets, and ultimately expedite and simplify the path to uncovering the truth.

Celebrating One Year of Transformative Contract Review

Relativity continues to support reviewers in making informed decisions faster. Since its launch at ILTACON last year, Relativity Contracts has enabled customers to do more in their contract review processes by transforming complex agreements into actionable, structured data that reveal better insights and drive faster decisions.

Recently, Relativity Contracts Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities were updated to support 10 new languages in addition to English. Now, the solution can recognize key terms and clauses in German, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, Italian, Spanish, Arabic and Dutch. Later this year, Relativity plans to release a Contracts Essential Fields model powered by aiR to automatically populate over 10 fields including parties, several key date fields, and more.

Relativity at ILTACON 2024

ILTACON 2024 will take place August 11-15 in Nashville, TN. The conference convenes industry experts and the legal community for peer-driven programs, educational content and face-to-face networking.

Thought leaders from Relativity will participate in several sessions and discuss a range of topics including opportunities and challenges associated with AI, managing IT contracts, maintaining ethical standards in the face of rapid technological advancement, data privacy, the importance of metrics for corporate legal departments and prompt engineering. View the full agenda here.

Attendees are encouraged to visit Relativity's booth #313 to learn more about the recent OpenAI ChatGPT Enterprise Compliance API integration, and see a video demo of the new RelativityOne and Cellebrite Remote Mobile Collection and Conversation integration. Those interested in setting up a one-on-one meeting at ILTACON 2024 can contact sales@relativity.com.

Relativity is a proud business partner of the International Legal Technology Association (ILTA) and earlier this year was a recipient of two ILTA 2024 Distinguished Peer Awards. David Horrigan, Discovery Counsel and Legal Education Director at Relativity, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a career exemplifying a record of contributions to the legal sector. Relativity's former Brand Content Program Manager, Blair Cohen, was named an honoree on ILTA's Young Professionals to Watch List for her achievements at Relativity and throughout the legal technology industry.

About Relativity

Relativity makes software to help users organize data, discover the truth and act on it. Its SaaS product, RelativityOne, manages large volumes of data and quickly identifies key issues during litigation and internal investigations. Relativity has more than 300,000 users in approximately 40 countries serving thousands of organizations globally primarily in legal, financial services and government sectors, including the U.S. Department of Justice and 198 of the Am Law 200. Please contact Relativity at sales@relativity.com or visit www.relativity.com for more information.

CONTACT: PR@relativity.com

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Deltek's Philippines office has been recognized by the World HRD Congress as an HR leader in Asia and The Philippines

HERNDON, Va., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Deltek, the leading global provider of software and solutions for project-based businesses, announced that it has been honored as one of Asia's best employer brands. Since 2012, Deltek has received this recognition twelve times from the World HRD Congress. The awards highlight employers from several geographical regions in Asia that are committed to creating positive experiences for employees. The awards recognize the top organizations within Asia that are exemplary within HR and have used marketing communications effectively for Human Resources development.

Deltek's workforce in The Philippines distinguished itself from other nominees through its award-winning Talent Management and Employee Engagement strategies by utilizing communications effectively to attract, retain, and develop talent. In addition to Deltek being named a Best Employer Brand, Cecille Manlapaz, CHRP, Senior Director of APAC and EMEA Talent Acquisition at Deltek, has once again been recognized as a Top Most HR Leader in The Philippines and in Asia for her work to drive positive change, foster a culture of inclusivity, and implement effective HR strategies.

"On behalf of the entire Deltek team, I'd like to express my gratitude to the World HRD Congress for this prestigious award," said Ed Hutner, SVP of Human Resources at Deltek. "Deltek's success wouldn't be possible without our employees. We're proud that our team in The Philippines has been recognized again for the collaboration and passion that they bring to work every day."

Learn more about Deltek's award-winning team.

About Deltek

Better software means better projects. Deltek is the leading global provider of enterprise software and information solutions for project-based businesses. More than 30,000 organizations and millions of users in over 80 countries around the world rely on Deltek for superior levels of project intelligence, management and collaboration. Our industry-focused expertise powers project success by helping firms achieve performance that maximizes productivity and revenue. www.deltek.com

Deltek Contact:

Deltek Media Relations Team

press@Deltek.com

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JERSEY CITY, N.J., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. announces the release of a market assessment report on the "Global Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market- (By Service Type (Clinical Trial Design and Monitoring, Regulatory Affairs, Data Management, Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety, Biostatistics/Programming, Medical Writing), By Stage (Clinical Development, Post Approval), By Therapeutic Area (Oncology, Cardiovascular, Infectious Diseases, Central Nervous System, Respiratory, Immunology, Gastrointestinal), By End User (Biopharmaceutical Companies, Medical Device Companies)) Trends, Industry Competition Analysis, Revenue and Forecast To 2031."

According to the latest research by InsightAce Analytic, the Global Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market is valued at US$15.78 Bn in 2023, and it is expected to reach US$ 29.62 Bn by 2031, with a CAGR of 8.19% during the forecast period of 2024-2031.

The Functional Service Providers (FSP) market is an element of the pharmaceutical and clinical research industry that provides services and resources to support various tasks in drug development and clinical trials. Clinical monitoring, statistical control, biostatistics, pharmacovigilance, scientific writing, and regulatory affairs are typical services provided by FSP groups. FSPs address a wide range of demands, including clinical operations, data administration, biostatistics, regulatory affairs, and pharmacovigilance.

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This market is driven by the increasing complexities of clinical research, as well as firms' efforts to save costs and the demand for adaptable and scalable solutions. Furthermore, FSPs provide solutions for trial management, clinical monitoring, data management, statistical programming, biostatistics, medical writing, lifecycle safety, and regulatory affairs. Clinical trials are time-consuming and expensive, and the challenges they cause.

List of Prominent Players in the Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market:

IQVIA

Parexel International Corporation

ICON plc

PRA Health Sciences

Covance Inc.

Charles River Laboratories International Inc.

Syneos Health

Pharmaceutical Product Development LLC (PPD)

Medpace Holdings Inc.

LabCorp

Wuxi AppTec (Pharmapace)

Accenture

Cognizant

Quanticate

BioPoint Inc.

Fortrea Inc.

ClinActis Pte. Ltd.

Sofpromed

Agati Clinical

Other Prominent Players

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Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market Report Scope:

Report Attribute Specifications Market Size Value In 2023 USD 15.78 Bn Revenue Forecast In 2031 USD 29.62 Bn Growth Rate CAGR CAGR of 8.19% from 2024 to 2031 Quantitative Units Representation of revenue in US$ Bn and CAGR from 2024 to 2031 Historic Year 2019 to 2023 Forecast Year 2024-2031 Report Coverage The forecast of revenue, the position of the company, the competitive market structure, growth prospects, and trends Segments Covered By Service Type, By Stage, By Therapeutic Area, By End-user Regional Scope North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa

Market Dynamics:

Drivers-

Rising R&D investments, especially in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, have created a need for Functional Service Providers (FSPs) in the global market. They provide highly qualified research associates, data managers, study coordinators, medical monitors, and other related staff support to these companies.

As companies focus on innovation and product development, they are outsourcing specific functions to specialized service providers. This trend allows organizations to leverage external expertise, reduce operational costs, and accelerate project timelines. Consequently, the demand for FSPs is rising, driving market expansion and creating opportunities for providers in the industry.

Challenges:

Cost pressures in the global Functional Service Providers (FSP) market arise due to various factors such as increased competition, rising labor costs, regulatory requirements, and client demands for cost containment. FSPs face challenges in maintaining profitability while delivering high-quality services within budget constraints.

This often leads to margin compression and necessitates efficiency improvements, resource optimization, and innovative cost-saving strategies to remain competitive in the market. FSPs face the venture of handing over fantastic services while retaining competitive pricing. They want to balance cost performance with provider excellence, which can stress income margins and pose demanding situations for FSPs regarding resource allocation and pricing techniques.

Regional Trends:

The North America Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market is expected to register a major market share in terms of revenue. It is projected to grow at a high CAGR in the near future. Growing population, rapid urbanization, and increasing industrialization, coupled with increasing R&D activities by prominent players, are factors expected to increase the growth of the Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market in the region.

Besides, the high number of regional clinical trials is another crucial parameter boosting the regional market's growth. Moreover, the presence of key market players and increasing collaboration among major players for market penetration in the region provides the opportunity for growth of the global functional service providers (FSP) market.

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Recent Developments:

In June 2024, IQVIA has launched One Home for Sites, a technological platform that provides a single sign-on and dashboard for clinical research sites to perform critical systems and functions across many trials. IQVIA One Home for Sites addresses this difficulty by allowing pharmaceutical companies that fund clinical trials, as well as their software vendors, to integrate all of the clinical applications that a research site is likely to utilize into a single platform.

In May 2024, WuXi AppTec announced the acquisition of Pharmapace, Inc.Pharmapace will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of WuXi Clinical, WuXi AppTec's clinical CRO arm, and will continue to focus on expanding its core biometrics competencies while integrating with WuXi Clinical's other clinical development services.

In March 2023, LEO Pharma and ICON plc have announced a strategic partnership that will allow LEO Pharma to scale patient-centric and cost-effective clinical trial execution, while also supporting the company's overall goal of becoming one of the most effective and efficient clinical portfolio execution organizations in the industry. The cooperation will employ both completely outsourced and functional outsourcing approaches in a personalized and adaptable hybrid strategy.

In August 2020, Parexel International Corporation (US) extended its long-term partnership with Pfizer (US) and signed a master service agreement. Under the agreement, the company is liable to offer clinical development services and a functional service provider model for therapeutic applications.

Segmentation of Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market-

Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market- By Service Type

Clinical Trail Design and Monitoring

Medical Writing

Data Management

Pharmacovigilance & Data Safety

Biostatistics/Programming

Regulatory Affairs

Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market- By Stage

Clinical Development

Post-approval

Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market- By Therapeutic Area

Oncology

Cardiovascular

Infectious Diseases

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Respiratory

Immunology

Gastrointestinal

Others

Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market- By End-user

Biopharmaceutical Companies

Medical Device Companies

Others

Functional Service Providers (FSP) Market- By Region

North America-

The US

Canada

Mexico

Europe-

Germany

The UK

France

Italy

Spain

Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific-

China

Japan

India

South Korea

South East Asia

Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America-

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa-

GCC Countries

South Africa

Rest of Middle East and Africa

Why should buy this report:

To receive a comprehensive analysis of the prospects for global Functional Service Providers (FSP) market

To receive industry overview and future trends of global Functional Service Providers (FSP) market

To analyze the Functional Service Providers (FSP) market drivers and challenges

To get information on the Functional Service Providers (FSP) market size value (US$ Mn) forecast till 2031

Major Investments, Mergers & Acquisition in global Functional Service Providers (FSP) market industry

Other Related Reports Published by InsightAce Analytic:

Clinical Trials Software Market

Clinical Trial Planning and Design Services Market

Pharmacovigilance Market

Medical Device Regulatory Affairs Market

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About Us:

InsightAce Analytic is a market research and consulting firm that enables clients to make strategic decisions. Our qualitative and quantitative market intelligence solutions inform the need for market and competitive intelligence to expand businesses. We help clients gain competitive advantage by identifying untapped markets, exploring new and competing technologies, segmenting potential markets and repositioning products. Our expertise is in providing syndicated and custom market intelligence reports with an in-depth analysis with key market insights in a timely and cost-effective manner.

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Increasing incidences of crime, rise in awareness and emphasis on forensic science in criminal investigations, and expanding application of forensic science are the major factors which drive the global market growth.

WILMINGTON, Del., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Forensic Equipment and Supplies Market by Product (Instruments, Reagents and Consumables, Low temperature Storage Devices and Evidence Drying Cabinets), Application (Drug Testing and Toxicology, DNA Analysis, Blood Analysis, Biometrics and Other Applications), and End User (Government Forensic Laboratories, Independent Forensic Laboratories and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2033". According to the report, the forensic equipment and supplies market was valued at $8.1 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $16.5 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2024 to 2033.

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Prime determinants of growth

Increasing incidences of crime, rise in awareness and emphasis on forensic science in criminal investigations, and expanding application of forensic science are the major factors that drive the growth of the forensic equipment and supplies market growth. However, lack of skilled professionals in emerging countries restricts the market growth. Moreover, rising adoption of digital forensics offers remunerative opportunities for the expansion of the global forensic equipment and supplies market.

Report coverage & details

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2024-2033 Base Year 2023 Market Size in 2023 $8.1 billion Market Size in 2033 $16.5 billion CAGR 7.3 % No. of Pages in Report 315 Segments Covered Product, Application, End User, and Region. Drivers Increase in incidences of crime

Rise in awareness and emphasis on forensic science in criminal investigations

Expanding application of forensic science Opportunity Rise in adoption of digital forensics Restraint Lack of skilled professionals in emerging countries

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Segment Highlights

The reagent and consumables segment dominated the market share in 2023

By product, the reagent and consumables dominated the market share in 2023. This is attributed to a rise in demand for consumables such as chemicals, test kits, and reagents which are indispensable for routine forensic procedures, ensuring accurate and reliable results. The consistent and repetitive nature of forensic testing necessitates a steady supply of reagents and consumables, such as chemicals, testing kits, and sample containers. These items are essential for a wide range of forensic analyses, including DNA testing, toxicology, and drug analysis, making them indispensable in forensic laboratories which support the segment growth.

The drug testing and toxicology segment dominated the market share in 2023

By application, drug testing and toxicology dominated the market share in 2023. This is attributed to rise in prevalence of drug-related crimes and substance abuse leading to a heightened demand for accurate and reliable drug testing equipment. Additionally, stringent government regulations and workplace drug testing policies further drive the need for advanced toxicology tools. Technological advancements in testing methodologies and the rising awareness about drug misuse contribute significantly to this segment's sustained dominance.

The government forensic laboratories segment dominated the market share in 2023

By end user, government forensic laboratories segment dominated the market share in 2023. This is attributed to the consistent funding and investment from governmental bodies aimed at enhancing national security and crime-solving capabilities. These laboratories benefit from access to state-of-the-art technologies and infrastructure, enabling them to handle a high volume of forensic analysis with precision and reliability thereby driving the segment growth. In addition, government labs often set standards and benchmarks in forensic science, further solidifying their leading position in the market.

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Regional Outlook

North America to maintain its dominance by 2033

North America is poised to maintain its leadership status in the forensic equipment and supplies market during the forecast period due to robust investments in law enforcement and criminal justice infrastructure, coupled with strong government support for advanced forensic technologies. The region benefits from the presence of major market players and extensive research and development activities. Additionally, the rise in incidence of crime and the consequent demand for effective forensic solutions drive market growth. The availability of skilled professionals and stringent regulatory standards further bolster the region's dominance in the market.

Players

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

PerkinElmer Inc.

Agilent Technologies Inc.

Danaher Corporation

Waters Corporation

Air Science

BVDA International

Safariland LLC.

Illumina Inc

HORIBA Ltd.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global forensic equipment and supplies market. These players have adopted different strategies such as agreement, acquisition, 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 Development

In October 2023, HORIBA Instruments Incorporated, a HORIBA Group company, announced that it has acquired Process Instruments, Inc. Process Instruments, a leading developer and manufacturer of Raman process spectroscopy for environmental and process markets, will become part of the HORIBA Group. This acquisition will expand business ventures by leveraging Process Instruments' industrial process instrument business oriented primarily around refinery and petrochemistry solutions in the United States and HORIBA's global sales network.

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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

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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.

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BIRMINGHAM, AL / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery, a distinguished member of Ascend Aesthetic Partners, announces the appointment of Dr. Beau Vandiver as its newest facial plastic surgeon, effective July 31, 2024. Dr. Vandiver joins the esteemed practice, bringing a wealth of expertise and a dedication to advancing patient care in the Birmingham, Alabama area.









Dr. Vandiver obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch, where he graduated summa cum laude. He completed his fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery in Birmingham. Dr. Vandiver has distinguished himself with a commitment to excellence and collaboration, embodying the values upheld by Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery and Ascend Aesthetic Partners.

"We are pleased to welcome Dr. Vandiver to our team," said Dr. William Hedden, Chief Surgeon and co-founder of Hedden & Gunn. "His exceptional training and compassion make him a perfect fit for our practice. As part of the Ascend network, we are committed to enhancing our capabilities and providing our patients the highest standard of care."

Dr. Vandiver's arrival expands Hedden & Gunn's capabilities, particularly in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He joins Dr. Joshua Halka, a member of Hedden & Gunn's surgical team since 2023, renowned for his expertise in surgical and non-surgical procedures including breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, facelift, eyelid surgery, Botox and dermal filler treatments.

A board-eligible plastic surgeon, Dr. Halka completed his medical education in Michigan at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit and his residency program at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine in Royal Oak. His dedication to achieving natural-looking results has earned him recognition throughout the Birmingham community.

"Dr. Vandiver's addition strengthens our commitment to providing Birmingham with the highest standard of facial plastic surgery," said Stephen Gunn, M.D., Chief Surgeon and co-founder of Hedden & Gunn. "We are also proud of Dr. Halka's contributions to our practice and the exceptional team we are building as the leading aesthetics center in the region."

Both Dr. Vandiver and Dr. Halka will collaborate within Hedden & Gunn's state-of-the-art facilities, offering a comprehensive range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures under the guidance and support of Ascend Aesthetic Partners.

"Expanding our team with skilled surgeons like Dr. Beau Vandiver and Dr. Joshua Halka ensures that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our patients with excellence and compassion," said Dr. Gunn. "Their expertise in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, coupled with their dedication to our Birmingham community, aligns perfectly with our commitment to advancing aesthetic medicine and delivering outstanding results."

For more information about Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Halka or Dr. Vandiver, please contact their Birmingham, Alabama practice at (205) 980-1744.

About Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery: Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery, a member of the Ascend Aesthetic Partners network, is dedicated to delivering exceptional plastic surgery and aesthetic services. Led by Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Dr. William Hedden and Dr. Stephen Gunn, the practice is committed to achieving natural-looking results with a focus on patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction.

Ascend Aesthetic Partners unites top plastic surgeons dedicated to advancing aesthetic medicine and empowering patients to become their best selves. Board certified plastic surgeons interested in learning more about the Ascend network can visit ascendaestheticpartners.com.

Contact Information

Lori Moonen

Marketing Agency

lori@creativesparkjax.com

9042287318

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The global business credit card market is experiencing growth due to an increased demand for small business financing, technological advancements, and digitalization in the banking industry, and a rise of entrepreneurship and the sharing economy.

WILMINGTON, Del., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Business Credit Cards Market by Type (Open-Loop Card and Closed-Loop Card) and Application (Small Business Credit Cards, and Corporate Credit Cards): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2032". According to the report, the business credit cards market was valued at $33.5 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $59.9 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7% from 2024 to 2032.

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103 - Tables

52 - Charts

210 - Pages

Prime determinants of growth

However, regulatory compliance and risk management, increasing competition and margin pressure hinder market growth to some extent. Moreover, the expansion of the small business services ecosystem offers remunerative opportunities for the expansion of the global business credit card market.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2024-2032 Base Year 2023 Market Size in 2023 $33.5 Billion Market Size in 2032 $59.9 Billion CAGR 7.00 % No. of Pages in Report 210 Segments Covered Type, Application, and Region Drivers Increased Demand for Small Business Financing

Technological Advancements and Digitalization

Rise in Entrepreneurship and Gig Economy Opportunities Expansion of Small Business Services Ecosystem Restraint Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

Increase in Competition and Margin Pressure

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The corporate card segment is expected to experience the fastest growth throughout the forecast period.

By application, the small business segment held the highest market share in 2023, accounting for more than half of the global business credit card market revenue, and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period, due to the widespread adoption of business credit cards among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for managing day-to-day expenses and facilitating business operations.

However, the corporate card segment is projected to attain the highest CAGR from 2024 to 2032. This can be attributed to the increasing adoption of corporate cards by large enterprises and multinational corporations for managing corporate expenses and optimizing cash flow. Corporate cards are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of larger organizations, offering features such as higher credit limits, robust expense management tools, and tailored reporting capabilities.

The closed loop segment is expected to lead throughout the forecast period.

By type, the open-loop segment held the highest market share in 2023, accounting for nearly half of the global business credit card market revenue and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period. This is due to its widespread acceptance and versatility across various merchants and industries.

However, the closed loop segment is projected to attain the highest CAGR from 2024 to 2032, due to its specialized applications and tailored solutions for specific industries or businesses. Closed loop cards are issued by individual merchants or businesses and can only be used at designated locations or within a specific network.

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Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032

By region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2023, accounting for three-fourths of the global business credit card market revenue and is expected to dominate in terms of revenue throughout the forecast timeframe owing to increase in adoption of digital payments and growth in number of small businesses and startups across the region. Business credit cards are gaining popularity in Asia-Pacific as companies seek to streamline their financial operations, access credit for business expansion, and manage expenses more efficiently.

Players: -

American Express Banking Corp.

JPMorgan Chase Bank

Capital One

Bank of America Corporation

Citi Group Inc

Wells Fargo

U.S. Bancorp

Barclays Plc

Discover Bank

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global business credit card 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.

Recent Industry News

In May 2023, Brex, a fintech company, enhanced its expense management tools by introducing real-time expense tracking and receipt capture features on its corporate credit cards. These tools, accessible via a mobile app, help businesses monitor spending and manage expenses more effectively.

In April 2023, Capital One Business introduced enhanced integration with accounting software in 2024, allowing businesses to automatically categorize expenses and generate customized reports. This integration with platforms like QuickBooks and Xero streamlines accounting processes, enables businesses to track expenses more efficiently.

In June 2022, PayPal partnered with Mastercard and launched co-branded business credit cards for PayPal Business account holders. These cards offer enhanced cashback rewards on PayPal and Mastercard transactions, as well as exclusive discounts on business services such as shipping and marketing.

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Key Benefits for Stakeholders

This report provides a quantitative analysis of the business credit cards market segments, current trends, estimations, and dynamics of the business credit cards market analysis from 2022 to 2032 to identify the prevailing market opportunities.

The market research is offered along with information related to key drivers, restraints, and business credit cards market opportunity.

Porter's five forces analysis highlights the potency of buyers and suppliers to enable stakeholders to make profit-oriented business decisions and strengthen their supplier-buyer network.

In-depth analysis of the business credit cards market outlook segmentation assists to determine the prevailing market opportunities.

Major countries in each region are mapped according to their revenue contribution to the global business credit cards market statistics.

Market player positioning facilitates benchmarking and provides a clear understanding of the present position of the market players, and business credit cards market forecast.

The report includes the analysis of the regional as well as global business credit cards market trends, key players, market segments, application areas, and business credit cards market growth strategies.

Business Credit Cards Market Key Segments:

By Type

Open-Loop Card

Closed-Loop Card

By Application

Small Business Credit Cards

Corporate Credit Cards

By Region

North America (U.S., Canada)

(U.S., Canada) Europe (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe)

(UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe) Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Rest of Asia-Pacific)

(China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Rest of Asia-Pacific) LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, Africa)

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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.

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Tampa, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Per Diem Therapy Xperts, a newly launched platform dedicated to optimizing staffing in the rehabilitation sector, has announced several exciting developments. With a live website and active hiring efforts, PDTX is now fully operational and ready to connect skilled clinicians with healthcare facilities in need.





Per DIem Therapy Experts (PDTX) logo



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Innovative Daily Pay Solution

In recent months, PDTX, led by founders Aaron Littles & President Saritha Ramasamy, has formed a strategic partnership with Everee, a prominent payroll processor, to introduce an innovative daily pay benefit for clinicians. This unique compensation method ensures that clinicians receive their pay within 24 hours of completing their shifts, offering them enhanced financial stability and flexibility. This timely payment system addresses a critical need in the healthcare industry, where delayed payments can cause significant financial strain. One clinician shared their positive experience, stating, "I really like getting daily pay right after my shift is over; it helps me manage my bills and make ends meet." This feedback highlights the profound impact of PDTX's initiative on the financial well-being and job satisfaction of their clinicians.

Seamless Integration for Healthcare Facilities

On the facilities side, PDTX has onboarded its first rehab chain with over 80 healthcare facilities, granting them real-time access to all clinician credentials. This integration not only enhances security and vetting processes but also streamlines operations, ensuring that facilities can efficiently manage their staffing needs.

Addressing Staffing Challenges in Rehab Care





Aaron Littles (CEO and Co-Founder), Saritha Ramasamy (President and Co-Founder)



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PDTX was founded with the mission to provide flexibility to both clinicians and healthcare facilities, addressing the prevalent issue of staffing shortages in the rehab sector. Traditional staffing models often result in underutilized travel clinicians or overworked permanent staff. PDTX's fractional staffing model allows facilities to hire clinicians for as few as four hours, optimizing flexibility and availability. "To be able to get a fractional person for 4 hours, maybe you can call on a stay-at-home dad or a student working on their doctorate who still wants to earn side income," explains Littles.

Empowering Clinicians and Enhancing Patient Care

Looking ahead, PDTX aims to enrich its community of therapists, promoting its fractional model's benefits to providers and patients. By ensuring that patients receive consistent care and clinicians can optimize their schedules, PDTX is setting a new standard in rehab care.

Two-Sided Marketplace

PDTX operates as a Machine Learning and Matching Algorithm powered two-sided marketplace, efficiently matching healthcare facilities with the right clinicians through advanced technology. The platform is designed to onboard clients and therapists quickly, pay them promptly, and book them efficiently. This ecosystem is optimized for efficiency, streamlining the rehab care process without compromising on the quality of care.

Targeting Long-Term Care Facilities

PDTX's services are specifically tailored for skilled nursing facilities and rehab companies. The platform integrates as a trusted partner for these facilities, helping them care for the elderly and vulnerable populations.

For more information about Per Diem Therapy Xperts and to explore partnership opportunities, please visit Per Diem Therapy Xperts.

Socials: IG/X/LI

About:

Per Diem Therapy Xpertse is an innovative platform revolutionizing staffing in the rehabilitation sector. Recently launched and spearheaded by CEO Aaron Littles & President Saritha Ramasamy, PDTXconnects skilled clinicians with healthcare facilities through advanced technology. The platform offers a unique daily pay benefit in partnership with Everee, ensuring clinicians receive their pay within 24 hours. This model provides financial stability, enhances job satisfaction, and addresses staffing shortages. PDTX also streamlines operations for healthcare facilities, offering real-time access to clinician credentials and optimizing staffing efficiency. Explore Per Diem Therapy Xperts for reliable and flexible rehab staffing solutions.

Contact Name(s): Aaron Littles

Location: Tampa, Florida

Company Name: Per Diem Therapy Xperts

Email: aaron@pdtx.care

Website Link: https://pdtx.care/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/218954

SOURCE: AK Infinite
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Showcase Minerals Inc. (CSE: SHOW) (FSE: ZJ0) ("Showcase" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has commenced its Phase 1 exploration program on the Pontiac Uranium Project located in Quebec, Canada this week.

The Phase 1 exploration program will involve prospecting, geological mapping, and sampling activities, complemented by scintillometer radiometric surveys. This initial phase aims to verify historical mineralization and exploration targets, and to identify new potential areas of interest on the Project. Historical data indicates uranium mineralization at surface levels ranging from 0.11% to 1% uranium oxide (U3O8), with drill hole results revealing values of 0.07% U3O8 over 4.6 meters within granitic rocks interbedded with hornblende gneisses.

"We are thrilled to embark on this exploration program, which marks a significant step forward in advancing the Pontiac Uranium Project," said Kirk Reed, CEO of Showcase Minerals. "Our objective with Phase 1 is to validate and expand upon the promising historical data, laying the groundwork for potential future exploration and development. We are optimistic about the potential findings and are committed to advancing the project through diligent and thorough exploration."

Pending the successful results of Phase 1, Showcase plans to proceed with a Phase 2 work program, which will include trenching and stripping operations focused on defined targets for uranium exploration.

Qualified Person:

Afzaal Pirzada, P.Geo., a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

About Showcase Minerals Inc.

Showcase is a Canadian mineral exploration company with an option to acquire a 100% interest, subject to a 2% net smelter returns royalty, in 60 mineral claims comprising the Pontiac Uranium Project located near the town of Fort Coulange in southwestern Quebec.

Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in CSE policies) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219136

SOURCE: Showcase Minerals Inc.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / In response to some property developers' increasing misuse of sunset clauses, Zaki Ameer, a prominent real estate industry figure, calls for significant legislative reforms. Initially designed to safeguard both parties in off-the-plan property agreements, sunset clauses have been reportedly exploited, leading to substantial financial losses for buyers.

Zaki Ameer, the founder of DDP Property, emphasises the urgent need for regulatory intervention to prevent developers from abusing these clauses to their advantage. He points out that the current legal framework allows developers to terminate contracts unilaterally under the pretext of project delays, reselling the properties at higher prices in a booming market.

"The imbalance in power between developers and buyers is stark," Ameer notes. "Many buyers enter these contracts with the expectation of securing a home at an agreed price, only to find themselves back at square one when developers exploit sunset clauses to maximise their profits."

Ameer suggests that legislative reforms should include mandatory buyer compensation when a sunset clause is invoked without cause. He believes this would deter developers from manipulating these clauses for financial gain and provide a fairer system for property buyers.

He also advocates for increased transparency in the off-the-plan sales process. Buyers should be fully informed about the potential risks and implications of sunset clauses before entering into contracts. This would involve more transparent disclosures and a standardised explanation of how these clauses can be applied.

"Ensuring buyers are well-informed and protected against unfair practices is crucial for maintaining trust in the property market," Ameer asserts. "Legislative reforms are not just necessary; they are imperative to protect the interests of property buyers."

Ameer's call for action comes when the property market is experiencing significant volatility, with many buyers feeling vulnerable. His proposed changes aim to create a more balanced and equitable market environment, ensuring that unfair contractual practices do not mar the dream of homeownership.

Contact Information

Zaki Ameer

Founder

info@ddpproperty.com.au

1300732921

SOURCE: DDP Property

View the original press release on newswire.com.
KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Binomo, a leading global trading platform, has launched a new feature: 1v1 or one-on-one trading. This unique format allows each platform user to have an exciting match with another trader and maximize their trading skills in just 15 minutes.

1v1 is a competition in which Binomo traders compete head-to-head. The goal of 1v1 is to make trading even more interesting for every Binomo user, to allow them to learn the limits of their abilities, and to prove their professionalism.

Any trader with a Standard account or higher and a minimum of $15 (or equivalent in local currency) to cover the entry fee can participate in 1v1. The challenge is to make up to 30 trades within 15 minutes and score more points than the rival. The winner takes everything, including the opponent's entry fee.

To join a match, visit the "Tournaments" section on binomo.com, click "1v1", and "Find rival". The system will automatically find an opponent, and 1v1 will start.

Throughout 1v1, participants will score points based on their trading results: 2 points for each successful trade or 1 point for each unsuccessful/closed trade without profit.

The participant with the most points wins. In a tie, both participants will have their entry fees refunded to their real accounts.

The beauty of 1v1 lies in the emphasis on skills and strategy. The trade amount and the chosen assets are irrelevant; pure trading skills determine the winner.

Currently, 1v1 is available on the Binomo web version, including in the mobile browser via the app.

About Binomo

Binomo has established itself as a premier trading platform for over a decade, serving millions of users across 130 countries. Its Category A membership in The Financial Commission and world-class awards confirm the platform's reliability.

Binomo offers a modern trading interface, over 70 financial assets, and 30 advanced analytical tools. It provides free video tutorials, easy-to-use strategies, and a demo account so that any trader can make informed decisions and achieve their financial goals.

You can find out more information on binomo.com.

Disclaimer: Trading always carries inherent financial risks. That's why Binomo is available for adults 18 and older.

Contact:

Name, surname: Anu Rooba

Email: support@binomo.com

Phone number: +37259660615

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ELMSFORD, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / DLC, one of the nation's largest private owners and operators of open-air shopping centers, and Meadow Partners, an institutional middle-market real estate investor, have acquired Penn Mar Shopping Center, a prominent 378,205 square foot grocery-anchored shopping center located inside the Capital Beltway within Prince George's County in Forestville, Maryland, less than 10 miles from downtown Washington, D.C.





Penn Mar Shopping Center

DLC AND MEADOW PARTNERS ACQUIRE PENN MAR SHOPPING CENTER FOR $68.5 MILLION





This strategic off-market acquisition was completed for $68.5 million and financed by Apollo and Athene.

Penn Mar highlights

Anchored by the highest-trafficked Shoppers Food Warehouse, which recently completed a 10-year renewal and a full store renovation.

Diverse mix of national anchor tenants that serve the community's needs including Burlington, Ross Dress for Less, Dollar Tree, Petco, and Foot Locker.

Eight single-tenant pad sites are home to popular brands, including Starbucks, Trust Bank, Taco Bell, Raising Cane's, IHOP, Wendy's, and Long John Silver's.

The center is 91.5% leased, includes 1,757 parking spaces, and is the dominant asset in a high-demand trade area with both immediate and long-term upside potential.

DLC has been an owner/operator in Prince George's County for over 20 years. The acquisition of Penn Mar complements an existing portfolio of three grocery-anchored and value-oriented retail assets within an 8-mile radius, totaling over 658,000 square feet, cementing DLC's dominant position as a buyer/owner/operator/value creator in Prince George's County. Penn Mar has an average household income of $95,430 and a population of over 95,000 within a 3-mile radius, highlighting the submarket's density from a residential and consumer perspective. DLC now owns over $250 million of open-air retail in the southern portion of Prince George's County.

This acquisition underscores DLC's commitment to investing in top-tier retail properties within major metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) across the country.

"The acquisition of Penn Mar is consistent with DLC's overall strategy," said Adam Ifshin, DLC CEO and Founder. "We are leaning into the best buying opportunities even as many are sitting on the sidelines and this off-market transaction is DLC's 14th acquisition since 2022, totaling over $600 Million. As a best-in-class operator, we are attracting capital that wants to be in our space with an aligned GP. DLC has capital for immediate deployment for over $1,500,000,000 of open-air retail assets."

Jeffrey Kaplan, Founder and Managing Partner of Meadow Partners, added, "The acquisition of Penn Mar is consistent with Meadow's high conviction theme of acquiring long-dated credit income which is trading at historically wide yields. This investment represents Meadow's focus on acquiring necessity-oriented, high-yielding, cash-flowing properties with longer-leased tenants and opportunities for enhanced operating performance. Penn Mar is an attractive grocery-anchored center that benefits from strong local consumer demand for brick-and-mortar based on resident demographics and customer shopping habits. We are excited to partner with DLC, a proven owner and operator of retail assets with significant experience unlocking retail value, and we look forward to growing our retail portfolio with them as we continue to identify attractive opportunities to deploy Fund VI that can generate opportunistic returns on behalf of our global investor base."

DLC is funded by a growth capital commitment from Temerity Strategic Partners (TSP). This acquisition marks DLC's sixth with TSP. In December 2023, TSP and DLC launched a venture to support DLC with growth capital enabling DLC to double the size of its portfolio by 2025.

About DLC

DLC is one of the nation's preeminent private retail real estate companies, with expertise in acquisitions, development, architecture, leasing and management. Headquartered in Metro New York, DLC has regional operations in Atlanta, Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, DC. For additional information about DLC and its portfolio, please visit?www.dlcmgmt.com.

About Meadow Partners

Based in New York and London, Meadow Partners is a $6.2 billion vertically integrated real estate investment manager specializing in global middle-market transactions. Since inception in 2009, Meadow has leveraged its unique platform to execute on investment opportunities across multifamily, office, industrial and retail investment on behalf of institutional investors globally. Meadow currently manages a series of commingled opportunistic funds, a perpetual life vehicle, and two core/core-plus separately managed accounts. For more information, please visit www.meadowpartners.com.

About Temerity Strategic Partners

Temerity Strategic Partners is a Chicago-based private equity firm with a focused strategy of providing growth capital to real estate operating, development, and asset management companies on behalf of its principals and a distinguished group of private and institutional investors. TSP provides growth capital, strategic resources and access to its extensive relationships to support rapidly growing, market-leading real estate owners and operators executing development, value-add and core-plus strategies throughout the United States. Founded by industry veterans Bruce Cohen and Jeff Citrin, TSP leverages its experience in building, capitalizing and investing in preeminent real estate operating platforms to support the pursuit of their long-term objectives.

Contact Information

Michael St. John

Senior Vice President, Marketing, DLC

mstjohn@dlcmgmt.com

914.406.7622

Mark Semer

meadow-partners@gashalter.com

212-2574170

SOURCE: DLC

View the original press release on newswire.com.
The certification affirms MacPaw's commitment to protecting its customers' data and maintaining organizational integrity

KYIV, Ukraine, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MacPaw, a leading macOS and iOS software maker, has successfully achieved the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, underscoring the company's dedication to industry-leading information security management practices. This certification confirms MacPaw's organizational reliability and commitment to safeguarding its customers' and team's data.

"When it comes to organizational information security, achieving ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification marks a significant milestone for our company," said Vira Tkachenko, CTO of MacPaw. "We underwent substantial changes to receive this certification. We implemented numerous controls across the entire organization, including asset management, access control, risk management, vendor verification, infrastructure security enhancements, internal audits, SSDLC improvements, and information security education for the team. Nearly every team member at MacPaw contributed to this effort."

MacPaw has continuously prioritized information security. In 2020, the company launched a focused initiative to further strengthen its security practices. The first step was forming and strengthening the team, followed by audits, process and culture changes, and adopting new tools. Following this, MacPaw received SOC 2* Type I report for Setapp, the first subscription-based platform offering a curated collection of Mac and iOS apps, in February 2022.

The certification acknowledges the significant evolution in MacPaw's information security efforts over the past four years. Through an impartial audit conducted and issued by Bureau Veritas, the certification confirms that security measures are rigorously followed at all company levels, ensuring MacPaw remains prepared and fortified against emerging threats. Additionally, the certification assures current and future partnerships that MacPaw is a reliable partner in all matters related to information security.

About MacPaw

MacPaw develops and distributes innovative software for macOS and iOS that simplifies the lives of Mac users. Renowned for its meticulously crafted products, such as CleanMyMac X, CleanMyPhone, Setapp, and ClearVPN, and known for its Moonlock cybersecurity division, MacPaw is dedicated to enhancing and securing the Mac user experience. Founded in Kyiv, Ukraine, with a subsidiary office in Boston, MacPaw serves over 30 million users worldwide. With one in every five Mac users having at least one MacPaw app, the company is a trusted leader in the Mac software ecosystem.

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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!
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust PLC - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, August 07

For immediate release

7 August 2024

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announce that it has today purchased 198,726 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 825.8512 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 51,621,597; 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 173,369,706.

The figure of 173,369,706 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
Newark, New Jersey and Long Beach, California--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - SalSon Logistics, a leading provider of port-to-shelf logistics and transportation services, is proud to announce its significant expansion with the addition of locations across the West Coast, Midwest and Southern US. This strategic move marks a major milestone in the company's growth, enhancing its national coverage and service capabilities.

SalSon Logistics' enhanced coverage now includes major markets in California, Seattle and Tacoma, Chicago, Houston, and Mobile, and expanded capabilities in existing geographies such as Savannah, Charleston and Norfolk, providing clients with improved access to critical distribution channels and streamlined supply chain operations. The company's robust infrastructure and strategic positioning underscore its capability to handle complex logistics challenges, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of goods.

Through the investment of private equity firm, Sun Capital Partners, SalSon partnered with a network of companies with a vision of building a national platform to service major importers and retailers around the country, further supported by its green fleet offerings with various diesel alternatives, including compressed natural gas, electric and hydrogen technologies.

"We are thrilled to expand SalSon's footprint and turnkey logistics model across the country, particularly in the West Coast, which will enable us to better serve our clients with a more comprehensive and efficient national logistics network," said Jason Fisk, Chief Executive Officer of SalSon Logistics. "This expansion is a testament to our dedication to innovation, quality service, and our strategic vision for growth."

Jason Fisk, Chief Executive Officer of SalSon Logistics

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SalSon Logistics will now have East Coast Operations headquartered in Newark, NJ and West Coast Operations headquartered in Long Beach, CA.

SalSon Logistics continues to grow its team and is actively seeking opportunities nationwide. For information, please visit www.SalSon.com.

###

Map of SalSon Logistics' Expanded National Coverage

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About SalSon Logistics

SalSon is a leader in port-to-shelf logistics, offering intermodal drayage, transload and warehousing, dedicated and store delivery services. SalSon offers both asset-based and brokerage services with nationwide coverage across all major ports and distribution hubs. Learn more about Salson at www.salson.com.

Media Contact:

Aria Deshe

CEO C Founder, ADPR Inc. Phone: 347-449-2925

Email: aria@adpr.co

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219109

SOURCE: SalSon Logistics
Toronto Community Unites for Free First Aid and CPR Workshop this August

Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics, an esteemed partner of the Canadian Red Cross, unveiled "Train The Next Hero" in 2018, a revolutionary initiative designed to boost community safety and preparedness. This complimentary first-aid & CPR workshop event, backed by local sponsors and stakeholders, will be held in the bustling heart of North York, Toronto. Train The Next Hero represents a unique opportunity for residents to come together and acquire vital life-saving skills in a supportive and accessible environment.

Emergencies and accidents can occur at any moment, whether it's a sudden cardiac arrest, choking incident, or a severe injury; having the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively can make all the difference. Unfortunately, many individuals lack basic first-aid training, leaving them ill-equipped to handle such critical situations.

Company co-director Aryan Sekhavati shared, "It'll be our fourth year organizing this event. We have grown a lot and expect to teach 500+ Toronto residents CPR skills at Train the Next Hero this summer."

The idea that triggered the Train the Next Hero event was the deadly van attack in 2018 that killed ten people and left 16 others seriously injured. Ashkon Pour-heidary, the other co-director of Coast2Coast First Aid and Aquatics, shared that "when an emergency happens, people don't know who is going to take the first action and this so-called "bystander effect" will lead to decreased chances of individuals performing these life-saving skills. With our workshops, we aim to increase the readiness and enhance the skills of Torontonians, so If something happens, we can come together to save each other's lives."

What to Expect at Train The Next Hero 2024

Train The Next Hero event aims to bridge that gap by offering comprehensive first-aid and CPR workshop sessions, CPR demonstrations, and informative workshops led by certified instructors. Participants will learn essential techniques for assessing and responding to various medical emergencies, including administering CPR, managing choking emergencies, heart attacks, strokes, opioid overdoses and more.

Empowering the Community for a Safer Tomorrow

This free event is about more than just acquiring skills-it's about empowering the community to take proactive steps toward safety and preparedness. Equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge to respond effectively in emergencies enhances public safety, fostering a culture of compassion and support within neighbourhoods.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, student, or concerned citizen, join this free event to learn, connect, and positively impact the community's health and well-being.

A Milestone for Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics

Companies are also welcome to attend the event. Coast2Coast was recently awarded the Canadian Red Cross's "Top National Training Provider Award 2023." It has trained over 1,500 companies through private/group training sessions and 40,000+ students across our 24 locations in Canada.

Event Details

Date : August 11, 2024

Time : 1 PM - 7 PM

Location: Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge St, North York, Toronto

Attendees can expect an engaging and interactive event designed to impart life-saving skills in a supportive and educational environment. Check out last year's event . Throughout the day, certified instructors will lead hands-on training sessions covering essential first aid techniques, including CPR, wound care, heart attacks, strokes, opioid overdoses, and other emergency response protocols. In addition to the training sessions, participants will be able to observe CPR demonstrations, participate in interactive workshops, and engage with community resources focused on health and safety.

The event is almost sold out, so don't miss this invaluable opportunity to equip yourself with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively in emergencies.

How to Register?

Registration for the Train The Next Hero event is free and easy. Visit our website at https://www.c2cfirstaidaquatics.com/train-the-next-hero-free-first-aid-cpr-workshop/ to secure your spot today. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

For questions and assistance with registration, please email the customer service team at contact@c2cfirstaidaquatics.com or call 1-866-291-9121, our toll-free number.

About Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics

Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics is a Top National Training Provider by the Canadian Red Cross. The WSIB Ontario and OHS Alberta approve our teaching guidelines. With over ten years in the industry, Coast2Coast is dedicated to empowering the community with life-saving skills to keep their loved ones safe and promote a safer city.

Press Contacts

Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics

1-866-291-9121

contact@c2cfirstaidaquatics.com

www.c2cfirstaidaquatics.com

SOURCE: Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics

View the original press release on accesswire.com
The event, hosted in partnership with Georgetown University's Global Cities Initiative, will explore policy opportunities to accelerate healthy buildings.

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), in partnership with Georgetown University's Global Cities Initiative, is proud to host its inaugural Healthy Building Policy Summit in Washington, D.C. on September 16. This groundbreaking, full-day event will be the first-ever gathering dedicated to exploring the critical role of policy in shaping the future of how we support and enhance human health, well-being and equity in our buildings.

"The Healthy Building Policy Summit, a first-of-its-kind event, represents a critical step forward in our mission to prioritize health and well-being in our buildings, organizations and communities," said Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO, IWBI. "We're excited to come together around the imperative for healthy buildings and delve further into the full range of policies that can help accelerate people-first places for everyone, everywhere."

By bringing together a diverse group of policymakers, government officials, industry leaders, and public health experts, the Summit aims to drive discussion, engagement and meaningful advancements in healthy building policy. "Human health metrics are fundamental to understanding the performance of the built environment; they should be at the center of our discourse on planning, investment & design," said Uwe S. Brandes, Professor and Director of the Georgetown Global Cities Initiative, which is hosting the event at its Capital Campus.

Attendees will engage in dynamic conversations about emerging policy actions that can accelerate healthier environments, while also learning from distinguished government and industry leaders who are speaking at the event. Already, a remarkable roster of speakers has been confirmed, including:

 Donnel Baird, CEO, BlocPower

 Holly Paeper, President, Commercial, HVAC, Americas, Trane

 Kenneth Mendez, President and CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)

 Rachel Hodgdon, President and CEO, IWBI

 Khoi Vo, CEO, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)

 Maria Cancian, Dean, McCourt School of Public Policy, Georgetown University

 Rick Fedrizzi, Executive Chairman, IWBI

 Uwe Brandes, Director, Georgetown Global Cities Initiative, Georgetown University

 Dr. Yele Aluko, Chief Medical Officer, EY Americas

 Whitney Austin Gray, Senior Vice President for Research, IWBI

 Chris Pyke, Chief Innovation Officer, GRESB

 Katie McGinty, Vice President and Chief Sustainability & External Relations Officer, Johnson Controls

 Kelly Worden, Vice President of ESG and Investing for Health, IWBI

 Tony Abate, VP and Chief Technology Officer, AtmosAir

 Rebecca Katz, Professor and Director of the Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University

 Christopher King, Dean, Georgetown University School of Health, Georgetown University

 Kay Sargent, Senior Principal, Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors, HOK

 Dr. Linda Lee, Chief Medical Officer & Science Officer, UV Angel

 Dr. John McKeon, CEO, iAIR Group

 Lisa Jacobson, President, Business Council for Sustainable Energy

Through its programming, the Summit will feature several timely trends, such as the integration of health, resilience and sustainable building practices; the role of technology advancements in improving occupant experiences; and pioneering use cases in both the private and public sectors.

"At Trane Technologies, we are climate innovators with the courage to look at our world's challenges and see endless opportunity," said Holly Paeper, President of Commercial HVAC, Trane Technologies, one of the mainstage speakers. "We are proud of our success in helping to improve the built environment and excited to join other leading voices in collaboration with IWBI at the Healthy Building Policy Summit to advance this critical policy conversation and set a higher bar to enhance the health and well-being of our communities, customers, employees, and planet."

The Summit will also cover a range of other vital topics, including policy innovations promoting healthy building practices while helping to achieve climate goals, new approaches to indoor air quality, and government leadership in deploying health-focused solutions in public buildings.

"At Corvias, we are dedicated to the care and quality of residences for service members and their families, and we have teamed up with IWBI to integrate healthy building best practices throughout our portfolio," said Chris Wilson, CEO of Corvias Group. "This commitment advances the well-being of our servicemembers and the resilience of these communities, all while helping bolster our nation's security. We are proud to support IWBI's Healthy Building Policy Summit and engage in important discussions about the future of military housing."

The Summit is generously sponsored by leading companies that are supporting important work to advance health in buildings. The event's Gold level sponsor is Corvias, with Trane Technologies as a Silver level sponsor. Bronze level sponsors include Vogel Group and UV Angel, with WellStat, AtmosAir, PathogenFocus and Aeroseal as experience sponsors. In addition, Lutron is hosting the Summit's evening reception.

The event also includes nearly a dozen Supporting Organizations, including American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), American Lighting Association (ALA), Americans for Small Business, Better Homes for Heroes, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), BOMA International, Global Green, Greenseal, ISSA-The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association, National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). In addition, the Summit's Media Partners include FacilitiesNet, Buildings Magazine and BuildingGreen.

"Public health leaders, building practitioners and government officials are championing a new policy paradigm that recognizes our buildings as vital to our health and well-being," said Jason Hartke, Executive Vice President of External Affairs and Advocacy, IWBI. "The Summit is the first event in the nation's capital to unite and amplify efforts to advance health-promoting policies in our buildings and communities."

For more information and to register for the event, please visit IWBI's Summit registration page.

What Summit Speakers and Supporters Are Saying:

"The clean energy transition isn't just about reducing emissions - it's about creating healthier, more equitable communities," said BlocPower CEO, Donnel Baird, one of the event's keynote speakers. "IWBI has taken a crucial step in bringing together great minds looking to craft policies that will make clean, healthy buildings accessible to all, and I'm honored to have been asked to speak at their inaugural summit."

"I'm excited about participating in IWBI's policy summit as an opportunity to elevate the conversation around health and well-being as a key strategy in achieving business and community goals," said Chrissa Pagitsas of Pagitsas Advisors and a mainstage speaker at the Summit. "I've long advocated for adopting a sustainability lens to not only manage risk but also drive tremendous economic benefits that help foster innovation, enhance resilience and support long-term growth."

"On behalf of the more than 27 million people in the United States with asthma, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) applauds the work of the IWBI," said AAFA President and CEO Kenneth Mendez, and a Summit mainstage speaker. "Focusing attention on policies with the potential to make indoor spaces healthier can saves lives and improved productivity. More than ten people die each day from asthma. The annual economic cost of asthma exceeds $82 billion - including $3 billion due to missed work or school days. I'm excited to join this group of leaders as we discuss ways to promote healthy building practices."

"As a proud supporter of the Healthy Building Policy Summit, USGBC welcomes this important dialogue on policy leadership to create healthy and sustainable buildings and communities," said Peter Templeton, President and CEO, U.S. Green Building Council. "This inaugural event is a milestone in our collective efforts to realize a future where the built environment protects human health and improves quality of life for all."

"I look forward to participating in the Healthy Building Policy Summit and highlighting the critical importance of meeting modern health, safety, and resilience standards in America's public school facilities," said Mary Filardo, Executive Director, 21st Century School Fund, and a mainstage speaker. "Modernizing our nation's public school buildings and grounds will bring better learning outcomes, advance the well-being of millions of students, teachers and administrators; and ensure resilience for our communities. This involves tremendous work, but work that we are fully capable of doing."

"It's crucial that we continue to rethink policy to ensure our products, buildings and communities protect both people and the planet," said Doug Gatlin, CEO, Green Seal. "The Healthy Building Policy Summit will provide a valuable platform to come together and highlight the essential innovations that our policymakers can embrace for a more sustainable future."

"The momentum we're seeing in healthy building policy is more consequential than ever as we work to reshape our built environment to better prioritize human health," said Kathleen "Katie" McGinty, Vice President and Chief Sustainability and External Relations Officer, Johnson Controls, and a mainstage speaker at the Summit. "As the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, Johnson Controls is delivering solutions today that dial down unhealthy indoor air issues while dialing up productivity, well-being, effectiveness and happiness in the places we live, work and play. That's why I'm excited to participate in IWBI's Healthy Building Policy Summit and make the promise of healthy buildings a reality today."

"The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) is leading an essential dialogue with its inaugural Healthy Building Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., focusing on the pivotal role of policy in shaping the future of our built environment to support and enhance human health and wellbeing," said Dr. John McKeon, CEO, iAIR Group, a mainstage speaker. "I look forward to contributing to this important discussion and exploring how we can advance policies that enhance indoor air quality and environmental health."

"Human health is fundamental in our work to shape the future of design," said Khoi Vo, CEO of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), and a mainstage speaker. "At IWBI's Healthy Building Policy Summit, we have a special opportunity to discuss challenges and explore innovative ideas that will help our community achieve ambitious design goals in equity, health and well-being."

"AIHA is honored to support the Healthy Building Policy Summit, a signature DC event that will underscore the critical connection between indoor air quality and our health," said Lawrence Sloan, CEO of AIHA. " One of AIHA's primary focuses is improving indoor air quality through well-defined protocols and solutions that protect worker and community health."

"We are witnessing the evolution of the place, and design can be a powerful tool in that endeavor. Designers need to balance what we have always done well, the art of design, with the science of design," said Kay Sargent, Senior Principal, Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors, HOK. "And there is a heightened awareness that the most valuable asset in any space is the people. After all, people are the reason we create space in the first place. We can't lose sight of the fact that we are human, and we need to design spaces that reflect that and reflect our humanity. By creating environments that support wellbeing, engagement and inspire those within them, we can drive powerful outcomes."

"I am pleased to be able to participate in this great event and provide insights on behalf of AtmosAir on how to make our buildings healthier and more efficient," said Tony Abate, Chief Technology Officer at AtmosAir, and mainstage speaker. "And as a committee member of ASHRAE's recently published Standard 241, which was created to help guide our built environment to provide safe and healthy indoor spaces for all, I can say unequivocally that we need more dialogue about how to advance a suite of healthy building policy solutions."

About the International WELL Building Institute

The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) is a public benefit corporation and the global authority for transforming health and well-being in buildings, organizations and communities. In pursuit of its public-health mission, IWBI mobilizes its community through the development and administration of the WELL Building Standard (WELL), WELL for residential, WELL Community Standard, its WELL ratings and management of the WELL AP credential. IWBI also translates research into practice, develops educational resources and advocates for policies that promote people-first for everyone, everywhere. IWBI is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, the world's largest corporate citizenship initiative, and helps companies advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the use of WELL. More information on WELL can be found here.

Contact: media@wellcertified.com

International WELL Building Institute, IWBI, the WELL Building Standard, WELL v2, WELL Certified, WELL AP, WELL EP, WELL Score, The WELL Conference, We Are WELL, the WELL Community Standard, WELL Health-Safety Rated, WELL Performance Rated, WELL Equity Rated, WELL Equity, WELL Residence, Works with WELL, WELL and others, and their related logos are trademarks or certification marks of International WELL Building Institute pbc in the United States and other countries.

About Georgetown University's Global Cities Initiative

The Georgetown Global Cities Initiative reaches across the entire University community to explore cross-cutting themes related to urbanization. Through this dialogue, Georgetown aims to align more than 60 faculty scholars and practitioners engaged in urban research who are not otherwise linked through their traditional academic disciplines. The Initiative matches Georgetown's international research networks with our civic role as a leading local anchor institution in Washington, DC. Research themes include social equity, rapid urbanization, city diplomacy; urban governance frameworks; social entrepreneurship; public health; technology, data and ethics; and changing environmental resources. We invite you to join us in dialogue as we engage one of the most important global trends in the 21st Century.

Contact: globalcities@georgetown.edu

View original content here.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from International WELL Building Institute on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: International WELL Building Institute

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/international-well-building-institute

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: International WELL Building Institute

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Client Lifecycle Management from InvestCloud modernises the client service experience through digital capabilities that improve operational efficiency and enable holistic client engagement

InvestCloud, a global wealth and asset management solutions provider, successfully launched its Client Lifecycle Management ("CLM") platform in partnership with Rathbones Group Plc ("Rathbones"), a leading UK wealth manager. By leveraging InvestCloud's single modular solution, Rathbones benefits from differentiated digital capabilities that will enhance the Group's client onboarding and servicing experience.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240807735852/en/

Supporting Rathbones' business today, as well as its upcoming integration of Investec Wealth and Investment (UK), InvestCloud provides a scalable and secure platform featuring centralised lead and prospect management, onboarding and servicing capabilities. Through this partnership, InvestCloud will enable Rathbones to support its growth ambition, improve the quality of its data and create greater operational efficiency, giving Rathbones' teams more time to focus on client-facing activities.

"We are proud to partner with one of the UK's leading wealth managers to deliver a holistic client lifecycle engagement platform which will enable Rathbones to focus on what matters most serving their clients," said Christine Mar Ciriani, Head of International, Digital Wealth at InvestCloud. "Through our multi-phased partnership with Rathbones, we look forward to delivering additional capabilities that will further enhance their client experience."

"The launch of the InvestCloud platform is an important step in our journey of enhancing our digital capabilities across the group, and we look forward to benefitting from its future development and roadmap," said Andy Brodie, Group Chief Operating Officer of Rathbones. "A key component of our overall digital provision to colleagues and supporting clients, our partnership with InvestCloud will enable us to continue to enhance the way we manage client relationships and deliver superior client service into the future."

About InvestCloud

InvestCloud is the global software leader in digital transformation for the wealth management industry and the US leader for personalization and scale across advisory programs, including unified managed accounts (UMA) and separately managed accounts (SMA). InvestCloud supports over $6 trillion of assets with over 550 direct clients, including banks and wealth managers, private banks, and asset managers. InvestCloud's scalable, modular technology platform provides best-in-class digital experiences throughout the complete wealth continuum.

Across both Digital Wealth and APL, InvestCloud helps wealth management professionals and companies expand their capabilities and deliver advanced services to their clients. The company offers digital client and advisor experiences and tools that enable the development of front-office wealth management solutions, and UMA/SMA portfolio management, trade execution, accounting, model management, and performance investment solutions for the wealth and asset management industry.

In 2024, InvestCloud was named a CNBC World's Top Fintech Company, a proof point of the company's commitment to innovation and client success. Headquartered in the United States, InvestCloud has offices worldwide, including Canada, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Italy, Singapore, Japan, and Australia. Visit InvestCloud.com and follow on social media for more information.

About Rathbones Group Plc

Rathbones Group Plc (Rathbones), through its subsidiaries, is one of the UK's leading providers of investment management services for individuals, charities and professional advisers. This includes discretionary investment management, unit trusts, tax planning, trust and company management, financial planning and banking services. Rathbones manages 108.9 billion of assets (as of 30 June 2024). Rathbones has over 3,500 people in 23 UK locations and the Channel Islands.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240807735852/en/

Contacts:

InvestCloud Media Inquiries

InvestCloudCommunications@fticonsulting.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Big Red Mining Corp. (CSE: RED) (FSE: K8J) (the "Company" or "Big Red") is pleased to announce the closing of its Non-Brokered Private Placement (the "Private Placement") announced June 27, 2024. The Private Placement consisted of the issuance of 1,500,000 common shares of the Company ("Shares") at a price of C$0.10 per common share for gross proceeds of $150,000 to the Company. All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement are subject to a statutory hold period in accordance with the applicable Canadian securities laws, expiring on December 7, 2024.

The net proceeds received from the Offering will be used by the Company for general working capital and exploration and development activities.

About Big Red Mining Corp.

Big Red holds an option to acquire a 100% interest in the Dobie Lake Copper Project (the "Property") in Ontario, Canada. The Property is Located approximately 100 km from Sault Ste Marie, Ontario. The Property surrounds and covers Extensions of the Past producing Jentina Mine. The Property comprises 131 claims totaling 6,500 Acres (26 Square kilometers). Big Red's management team possess extensive experience in financing, exploration, development and mining. Big Red's mission is to conduct future drilling campaigns on the Dobie Lake copper property to maximize its minable resource potential.

WWW.BIGREDMINING.COM

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219170

SOURCE: Big Red Mining Corp.
Utrecht, Netherlands--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2024) - Emailexpert is pleased to announce the starting date for The Festival of Email, focused on leveraging Email in business strategy. Kicking off on September 16th, this two day event is a standout track at the renowned Martech Festival happening again in Utrecht, promising a deep dive into the world of Email, CRM, and customer journeys.

The main stage area for Festival of Email at Martech Festival

The is the third in-person Festival of Email, first held in Miami, Florida in 2021, and the second in Utrecht presented by industry event organisers Emailexpert. This annual event is fast becoming a must-attend event for discerning Email professionals looking to meet established industry leaders and brand side executives.

As digital marketing continues to evolve, Email remains a cornerstone of effective communication and customer engagement. The Festival of Email has carefully curated its agenda to provide attendees with comprehensive insights into every facet of Email marketing. From infrastructure to design and deployment, participants will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge strategies and technologies that can elevate their Email campaigns.

Global Email and Digital Marketing Experts including Priya Bransfield, Nick Hristov of Email Industries, Anna Levitin, Beata Linz, and others will be present. Ecommerce managers and CRM managers from global brands have already committed to international travel to attend the event.

Cyrill Gross, Founder and Lead Developer from Mailix by Mayoris AG, joining from Switzerland, will lead a comprehensive hour-long session on interactive Email development. Participants will gain practical insights into creating engaging Emails that captivate recipients and drive action. Cyrill's expertise ensures that attendees will walk away with a thorough understanding of the processes involved and the potential benefits for their brand.

Gyula Nemeth, CTO of Chamaileon, joining from Hungary, will delve into the future of AI in Email marketing. This session promises a detailed exploration of how AI can enhance Email personalisation, automation, and overall effectiveness. Gyula's deep dive will allow delegates to ask in-depth questions and gain clarity on this transformative technology.

Chryso Savva, CEO & Founder at Stronde, joining from Cyprus, will share valuable insights into omni-channel strategies, helping you understand how to integrate Email with other marketing channels for a cohesive customer experience. This session will cover best practices and innovative approaches to ensure your marketing efforts are harmonized across platforms.

Engage with Raymond Dijkxhoorn, a leading blocklist expert, and the DMARC Advisor team. They will address questions on Email authentication, infrastructure, hosting, and colocation. Their expertise will help you navigate the complexities of Email security and ensure your campaigns are delivered safely and reliably.

Join Sandy Kartopawiro, from SEINo, for an in-depth exploration of Email analytics. Learn how to measure the effectiveness of your campaigns, interpret data, and implement strategies for re-engaging inactive subscribers.

Sara Kappler, CEO from Centric Squared, joins for session that will cover everything you need to know about ESP migration. From deciding when it's time to migrate to understanding the key considerations and steps involved, Sara's expertise will help you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition.

Kath Pay, the Founder of Holistic Email Marketing, joining from Antigua, will share her wealth of knowledge in an exclusive session. This is a chance to gain strategic insights from a best-selling author and thought leader in Email marketing. Kath will cover advanced strategies that can elevate your Email marketing efforts and drive significant results.

Participate in an extended training session co-presented by Udeme Ukutt from the US and Andrew Bonar joining from Spain. This session will cover the fundamentals of Email deliverability, providing you with the knowledge needed to achieve your Emailexpert certification. This certification is a valuable credential that demonstrates your expertise in ensuring Emails reach their intended recipients.

Maarten Oelering will discuss the pros and cons of deploying Email architecture on-premise versus in the cloud. This session will help you understand the technical considerations and make informed decisions based on your organization's needs.

Jasper Van Laethem, Senior Email Strategist at The Future Panel, joins us from Belgium will explore the importance of zero-party data in Email marketing. Learn how to collect and leverage this valuable data to create highly personalized and effective Email campaigns.

Jasper's insights will help explain why zero-party data is becoming increasingly important in the digital marketing landscape.

The agenda for the Festival of Email is still being finalised, but tickets are limited. Many sessions, particularly those held in breakout areas, have a maximum capacity of 40 delegates, so early registration is recommended.

"The Festival of Email is an unparalleled opportunity for professionals to gain insights from the industry's top experts and transform their Email strategies," said Andrew Bonar, CEO of Emailexpert UK Ltd.

Join Emailexpert at the Martech Festival in Utrecht and prepare to transform your Email strategy with insights from the industry's top experts. Secure a spot today and take Email marketing to the next level.

The Martech Festival, now in its second year in Utrecht, NL, continues to attract marketing and technology professionals from around the globe. This event provides a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends, strategies, and innovations in the industry. Attendees can network with peers, gain insights from leading experts, and discover cutting-edge solutions designed to elevate their marketing efforts. Looking ahead, the company is excited to expand its reach and is considering other international locations for the 2025 event.

A breakout area at the Festival of Email at Martech Festival

About Emailexpert UK Ltd

Emailexpert was created to foster collaboration, networking and innovative discussions within the Email space. The company is committed to providing quality events and exclusive networking opportunities to C-suite executives, CRM Managers, Engineers and others operating in Email infrastructure. Emailexpert likes to see itself as being a pioneer in the Email marketing and deliverability space, helping define the space and push the industry forward.

Through commitment to innovation, events, and by providing industry insights, tools, and resources, Emailexpert seeks to make Email marketing more effective and accessible to businesses and marketing professionals worldwide. The company's methodologies are rooted in shaping a new era of digital marketing standards. As a Society of Trusted Email Professionals, Emailexpert stands as a vendor-neutral stage, offering a collaborative and inclusive environment for both seasoned industry professionals and those new to the industry.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/219073

SOURCE: Emailexpert
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION INTO THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES

American Potash Corp. (CSE:KCL) ("American Potash" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of up to 13,000,000 units ("Units") at a price of $0.05 to raise gross proceeds of up to $650,000 (the "Private Placement"). Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one additional common share at an exercise price of $0.10 for a period of two years following closing of the Private Placement.

The Company may pay finder's fees in the amount of 7% cash and issue finder's warrants equal to 7% of the number of Units placed by such finder on all or a portion of the Private Placement. The finder's warrants will have the same terms of the Warrants forming part of the Units.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Private Placement for permitting on its properties and for working capital. Completion of the Private Placement remains subject to the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Dean Besserer, President & CEO

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Such statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the statements regarding completion of the Private Placement and the use of the net proceeds of the Private Placement. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that such expectations will prove to be correct. All such forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. This information, however, is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from this forward-looking information include the Company's ability to locate suitable investors for the Private Placement or obtain the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange, management's discretion to re-allocate the net proceeds of the Private Placement, as well as those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or revise the forward-looking information contained in this news release, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

CONTACT:

1100-1199 West Hastings St.

Vancouver, BC Canada V6E 3T5

T 780 916 5782

E deanb@americanpotash.com

SOURCE: American Potash Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
TORONTO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mandalay Resources Corporation ("Mandalay" or the "Company") (TSX: MND) (OTCQB: MNDJF) is pleased to announce strong financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024 supported by solid production results, disciplined capital allocation, and favorable metal prices.

The Company's condensed and consolidated interim financial result for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, together with its Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the corresponding period, can be accessed under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com and on the Company's website at www.mandalayresources.com. All currency references in this press release are in U.S. dollars except as otherwise indicated.

Second Quarter 2024 Highlights:

Continued strengthening of balance sheet with cash balance of $62.9 million as at June 30, 2024 and a growing net cash position[1] of $35.8 million;

Generated $24.1 million and $15.6 million in cash flow from operating activities and free cash flow 1 , respectively;

, respectively; Consolidated revenue up by 59% as compared to Q2 2023, at $63.1 million; Bjorkdal recorded its highest ever quarterly revenue of $28.8 million; Costerfield generated $34.3 million in quarterly revenue;

Consolidated cash operating cost 1 per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 12% to $1,022 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,159 per ounce in Q2 2023;

per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 12% to $1,022 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,159 per ounce in Q2 2023; All-in sustaining cost 1 per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 17% to $1,419 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,704 per ounce in Q2 2023; and

per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 17% to $1,419 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,704 per ounce in Q2 2023; and Consolidated net income was $15.9 million ($0.17 or C$0.23 per share), compared to $0.5 million in Q2 2023.

Subsequent to the quarter end, based on the Company's strong quarter-end cash position and ongoing cash flow expectations, Mandalay repaid the entire outstanding balance ($20 million) of its Revolving Credit Facility. As a result, Mandalay currently has no indebtedness other than minor equipment leases. The undrawn $35 million Revolving Credit Facility remains in place.

Frazer Bourchier, President, and CEO commented:

"In the second quarter, we again delivered revenue and earnings growth, driven by solid production results and a stable cost profile that met our internal plans. Based on our strong quarter-end cash position of approximately $63 million and anticipated future cash flow generation, we have fully repaid the remaining $20 million balance on our Revolving Credit Facility, leaving us with $35 million in undrawn availability under the facility. We will keep proactively managing our balance sheet to increase our financial flexibility."

____________________________ 1. Gold equivalent production, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, net cash, cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" at the end of this press release for further information.

Hashim Ahmed, CFO commented:

"On a consolidated basis, the Company generated $15.6 million in free cash flow during Q2 2024, equating to approximately $582 per ounce of gold equivalent sold. This was supported by an increase in cash flow from operating activities during the same period, amounting to $24.1 million by the end of Q2 2024. As compared with the previous quarter, Mandalay's cash balance rose by approximately $16 million with an ending net cash position of $35.8 million in Q2 2024.

"Our consolidated cash and all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold equivalent produced during Q2 2024 were $1,022 and $1,419, respectively, marking a decrease compared to the corresponding quarter last year, primarily due to increased gold equivalent production.

"Bjorkdal achieved its highest quarterly revenue, nearing $29 million. This was primarily driven by increased tonnage processed in Q2 2024, as compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, Costerfield recorded its third consecutive quarter-over-quarter revenue increase reaching $34.3 million."

Mr. Bourchier concluded: "Mandalay made substantial progress in strengthening its balance sheet during the first half of the year. We are executing well on our operational strategic priorities and remain on track to achieve our annual production guidance, while continuing to take steps to further optimize our operations for better sustained cash flow generation, positioning the Company for long-term growth and increased shareholder value."

Second Quarter 2024 Financial Summary

The following table summarizes the Company's consolidated financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:

($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30, June 30,

2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue 63,054 39,670 118,565 81,849 Cost of sales 25,162 29,236 52,193 55,842 Adjusted EBITDA (1) 35,862 8,890 62,597 21,835 Adjusted net income (loss) (1) 16,802 (3,229) 28,954 (2,711) Consolidated net income 15,857 524 21,745 1,078 Capital expenditure 8,791 14,095 21,937 22,872 Total assets 323,272 271,324 323,272 271,324 Total liabilities 109,244 91,001 109,244 91,001 Adjusted net income (loss) per share (1) 0.18 (0.03) 0.31 (0.03) Consolidated net income per share 0.17 0.01 0.23 0.01

1. Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" at the end of this press release for further information.

In Q2 2024, Mandalay generated consolidated revenue of $63.1 million, 59% higher than the second quarter of 2023. The increase in revenue was due to an increase in gold production contributing to higher gold equivalent ounces sold of 26,759 ounces in Q2 2024 as compared to 20,229 ounces in Q2 2023 together with higher average realized prices: $2,314 per ounce for gold and $20,320 per tonne for antimony in Q2 2024 compared to $1,949 per ounce and $12,406 per tonne in Q2 2023.

Consolidated cash operating cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced decreased 12% to $1,022 per ounce in the second quarter of 2024 compared to $1,159 in the second quarter of 2023. The decrease in cash operating cost per ounce was due to a 26% increase of gold equivalent production in Q2 2024 with 26,372 ounces produced compared to 20,850 ounces in Q2 2023, partly offset by a 12% increase in cash operating costs. The increase in cash operating costs was primarily due to higher processing costs at both sites during Q2 2024 compared to Q2 2023 due to increased throughput at Bjorkdal and increased costs for tailings and water management at Costerfield coupled with increased personnel expenses during Q2 2024, which stemmed from understaffing due to recruitment challenges in Q2 2023.

Cost of sales including change in inventory during the second quarter of 2024 versus the second quarter of 2023 were $4.8 million lower at Costerfield due a higher build-up of inventory partly offset by the higher cash operating costs and $0.7 million higher at Bjorkdal. Consolidated general and administrative costs were $0.5 million higher compared to the second quarter of 2023.

Mandalay generated adjusted EBITDA of $35.9 million in the second quarter of 2024, which is four times higher than the adjusted EBITDA in the second quarter of 2023. The increase in adjusted EBITDA was mainly due to higher revenue in the current quarter. Adjusted net income was $16.8 million in the second quarter of 2024, which excludes a $0.9 million loss on financial instruments, compared to an adjusted net loss of $3.2 million in the second quarter of 2023.

Consolidated net income was $15.9 million for the second quarter of 2024, versus $0.5 million in the second quarter of 2023. Mandalay ended the second quarter of 2024 with $62.9 million in cash and cash equivalents.

Second Quarter Operational Summary

The table below summarizes the Company's operations, capital expenditures and operational unit costs for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:



Three months ended Six months ended June 30, June 30,

2024 2023 2024 2023 Costerfield







Gold produced (oz) 11,027 7,296 23,003 14,664 Antimony produced (t) 359 517 763 1,061 Gold equivalent produced (oz) 13,773 10,453 28,339 21,470 Cash operating cost (1) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 844 930 811 925 All-in sustaining cost (1) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 1,142 1,268 1,072 1,190 Capital development 1,023 983 1,877 1,848 Property, plant and equipment purchases 1,291 1,089 2,144 1,597 Capitalized exploration 2,281 1,968 4,228 4,120 Bjorkdal







Gold produced (oz) 12,599 10,397 22,969 19,366 Cash operating cost (1) per oz gold produced ($) 1,216 1,389 1,300 1,483 All-in sustaining cost (1,3) per oz gold produced ($) 1,553 1,978 1,695 1,959 Capital development 2,110 2,761 4,791 4,569 Property, plant and equipment purchases 1,296 5,743 2,704 8,327 Capitalized exploration 1,013 1,551 1,612 2,344 Consolidated







Gold equivalent produced (oz) 26,372 20,850 51,308 40,836 Cash operating cost (1) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 1,022 1,159 1,030 1,190 All-in sustaining cost (1,3) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 1,419 1,704 1,427 1,663 Capital development 3,133 3,744 6,668 6,417 Property, plant and equipment purchases (2) 2,364 6,832 9,372 9,924 Capitalized exploration 3,294 3,519 5,897 6,531

1. Cash operating cost and all-in sustaining cost are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" at the end of this press release for further information. 2. includes equipments purchased for reclamation activities at non-operating site. 3. All-in sustaining costs in the current year includes tailings dam amortization, accordingly the 2023 comparative figures have been updated.

Costerfield gold-antimony mine, Victoria, Australia

During Q2 2024, Costerfield produced 11,027 ounces of gold compared to 7,296 ounces in Q2 2023, an increase of 51% or 3,731 ounces. The increase in ounces produced was a result of an increase in the average milled gold head grade from 7.39 g/t in Q2 2023 to 12.07 g/t in Q2 2024. Costerfield generated $34.3 million in revenue and $23.5 million in adjusted EBITDA, which resulted in net income of $12.3 million.

The cash operating cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced decreased by 9% to $844 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $930 in Q2 2023, and all-in sustaining cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced decreased by 10% to $1,142 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,268 Q2 2023, both mainly as a result of the increased gold equivalent production partly offset by increased cash operating costs mainly due to increased processing costs due to higher costs for tailings and water management coupled with increased personnel costs both in the mine and the mill during Q2 2024, which stemmed from understaffing due to recruitment challenges in Q2 2023 and higher mining materials costs due to unplanned spending to reinforce production areas during Q2 2024.

Bjorkdal gold mine, Skelleftea, Sweden

During Q2 2024, Bjorkdal produced 12,599 ounces of gold compared to 10,397 ounces in Q2 2023, an increase of 21% or 2,202 ounces, mainly due to the 12% increase in the tonnes of ore processed from 296,213 in Q2 2023 to 331,450 in Q2 2024. Bjorkdal generated $28.8 million in revenue and $14.3 million in adjusted EBITDA, which resulted in net income of $5.0 million.

The cash operating cost per ounce produced for Q2 2024 decreased by 12% to $1,216 per ounce compared to $1,389 in Q2 2023 as a result of the increased gold production partly offset by increased cash operating costs mainly due to higher throughput post the commissioning of the mill conversion capital investment project in Q1 2024 resulting in increased consumption of grinding media and other mill consumables. All-in sustaining cost per ounce decreased by 21% to $1,553 per ounce, compared to $1,978 in Q2 2023 as a result of the increased gold production coupled with lower sustaining capital spending partly offset by the increased cash operating costs.

Lupin, Nunavut, Canada

Care and maintenance spending at Lupin was less than $0.1 million during Q2 2024 and Q2 2023. Reclamation spending at Lupin was $0.5 million during Q2 2024 compared to less than $0.1 million in Q2 2023. There will be increased reclamation spend in the remaining year 2024 at Lupin relative to the 2023 year, but the majority of this reclamation work to achieve the majority of closure obligations, is expected to take place in the 2025 calendar year. Lupin is currently in the process of final closure and reclamation activities, which are partly funded by progressive security reductions held by the Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.

La Quebrada, Chile

No work was carried out on the La Quebrada development property during Q2 2024.

Conference Call

A conference call with Frazer Bourchier, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mandalay, for investors and analysts on August 8, 2024, at 8:00 AM (Toronto time). Interested investors may join by using the following dial-in number:

Participant Number (North America toll free): 1-800-836-8184 Conference ID: 94411

Alternatively, please register for the webcast here. A replay of the conference call will be available until 11:59 PM (Toronto time), August 15, 2024, and can be accessed using the following dial-in numbers:

Encore Number (Canada Toll free): 1-888-660-6345 Encore Replay Code: 94411#

About Mandalay Resources Corporation

Mandalay Resources is a Canadian-based natural resource company with producing assets in Australia (Costerfield gold-antimony mine) and Sweden (Bjorkdal gold mine). The Company is focused on growing its production and reducing costs to generate significant positive cashflow. Mandalay is committed to operating safely and in an environmentally responsible manner, while developing a high level of community and employee engagement.

Mandalay's mission is to create shareholder value through the profitable operation and regional exploration programs, at both its Costerfield and Bjorkdal mines. Currently, the Company's main objectives are to continue mining the high-grade Youle and Shepherd veins at Costerfield, and to extend Mineral Reserves. At Bjorkdal, the Company will aim to increase production from the Eastern Extension area and other higher-grade areas in the coming years, in order to maximize profit margins from the mine.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in 2024. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, changes in commodity prices and general market and economic conditions. The factors identified above are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect Mandalay. A description of additional risks that could result in actual results and developments differing from those contemplated by forward-looking statements in this news release can be found under the heading "Risk Factors" in Mandalay's annual information form dated March 31, 2024, a copy of which is available under Mandalay's profile at www.sedar.com. In addition, there can be no assurance that any inferred resources that are discovered as a result of additional drilling will ever be upgraded to proven or probable reserves. Although Mandalay has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Non-GAAP Performance Measures

This news release may contain references to adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, free cash flow, cash operating cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced and all-in sustaining cost all of which are non-GAAP performance measures and do not have standardized meanings under IFRS. Therefore, these measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

Management uses adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow as measures of operating performance to assist in assessing the Company's ability to generate liquidity through operating cash flow to fund future working capital needs and to fund future capital expenditures, as well as to assist in comparing financial performance from period to period on a consistent basis. Management uses adjusted net income in order to facilitate an understanding of the Company's financial performance prior to the impact of non-recurring or special items. The Company believes that these measures are used by and are useful to investors and other users of the Company's financial statements in evaluating the Company's operating and cash performance because they allow for analysis of its financial results without regard to special, non-cash and other non-core items, which can vary substantially from company to company and over different periods.

The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as income from mine operations, net of administration costs, and before interest, taxes, non-cash charges/(income), intercompany charges and finance costs. The Company defines adjusted net income as net income before special items. Special items are items of income and expense that are presented separately due to their nature and, in some cases, expected infrequency of the events giving rise to them. A reconciliation between adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income, on the one hand, and consolidated net income, on the other hand, is included in the MD&A.

The Company defines free cash flow as a measure of the Company's ability to generate and manage liquidity. It is calculated starting with the net cash flows from operating activities (as per IFRS) and then subtracting capital expenditures and lease payments. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" section of the MD&A for a reconciliation between free cash flow and net cash flows from operating activities.

For Costerfield, equivalent gold ounces produced is calculated by adding to gold ounces produced, the antimony tonnes produced times the average antimony price in the period divided by the average gold price in the period. The total cash operating cost associated with the production of these equivalent ounces produced in the period is then divided by the equivalent gold ounces produced to yield the cash operating cost per equivalent ounce produced. The cash operating cost excludes royalty expenses. Site all-in sustaining costs include total cash operating costs, sustaining mining capital, royalty expense, accretion of reclamation provision and tailings dam amortization. Sustaining capital reflects the capital required to maintain each site's current level of operations. The site's all-in sustaining cost per ounce of gold equivalent in a period equals the all-in sustaining cost divided by the equivalent gold ounces produced in the period.

For Bjorkdal, the total cash operating cost associated with the production of gold ounces produced in the period is then divided by the gold ounces produced to yield the cash operating cost per gold ounce produced. The cash operating cost excludes royalty expenses. Site all-in sustaining costs include total cash operating costs, sustaining mining capital, royalty expense, accretion of reclamation provision and tailings dam amortization. Sustaining capital reflects the capital required to maintain each site's current level of operations. The site's all-in sustaining cost per ounce of gold equivalent in a period equals the all-in sustaining cost divided by the equivalent gold ounces produced in the period.

For the Company as a whole, cash operating cost per gold equivalent ounce is calculated by summing the gold equivalent ounces produced by each site and dividing the total by the sum of cash operating costs at the sites. Consolidated cash operating cost excludes royalty and corporate level general and administrative expenses. This definition was updated in the third quarter of 2020 to exclude corporate general and administrative expenses to better align with industry standard. All-in sustaining cost per ounce gold equivalent in the period equals the sum of cash operating costs associated with the production of gold equivalent ounces at all operating sites in the period plus corporate overhead expense in the period plus sustaining mining capital, royalty expense, accretion of reclamation provision and tailings dam amortization, divided by the total gold equivalent ounces produced in the period. A reconciliation between cost of sales and cash operating costs, and also cash operating cost to all-in sustaining costs are included in the MD&A.

For Further Information: Frazer Bourchier, Director, President and Chief Executive Officer; Edison Nguyen, Director, Business Valuations and IR, Contact: +1 (647) 258 9722

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Anjuna, the Palo Alto, CA-based creator of Anjuna Seaglass, the universal confidential computing platform, raised $25M in Series B2 funding.

The round was led by M Ventures, SineWave Ventures, and AI Capital Partners (Alpha Intelligence Capitals U.S.-based fund), with participation from existing investors Founder Collective, Insight Partners, Playground Global, and Uncorrelated. Additionally, M Ventures Ilja Aizenberg and SineWaves Patricia Muoio are joining the companys board of directors.

The company intends to use the funds to expand its AI-enabling enterprise offerings, highlighted by the launch of Anjuna Seaglass AI Clean Rooms, now available in private preview.

Led by Ayal Yogev, CEO, Anjuna created Anjuna Seaglass, a Universal Confidential Computing Platform capable of running applications in any cloud with complete data security and privacy. It isolates workloads in a hardware-assisted environment that secures data in every state to create a Zero Trust environment for code and data. It also empowers enterprises to directly control application-level trust policies, ensuring that only trusted code can access sensitive data.

Anjuna works with enterprises around the globe in industries such as financial services, government, and blockchain.

FinSMEs

07/08/2024
CorrosionRADAR, a Cambridge, UK-based provider of smart corrosion monitoring solutions, raised 5M in Series B funding.

The round was led by Aramco Ventures, Dow and Kanoo Ventures and backed by Mercia Ventures, investing via the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF).

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate deployment of its monitoring systems worldwide and continue developing new products to improve safety and operations within the oil, gas and petrochemical industries, as well as the expanding hydrogen sector.

Led by CEO Dr Chiraz Ennaceur, CorrosionRADAR is a provider of smart corrosion monitoring and analytics solutions for critical industrial asset integrity issues such as corrosion under insulation (CUI). The solutions monitor and predict risk remotely, allowing businesses to make data driven decisions in their industrial assets. For new energy infrastructure such as Hydrogen and CCUS, as well as conventional oil & gas, businesses are able to improve safety, and achieve significant savings in their maintenance costs.

The company currently employs 22 staff and is on course to increase revenue by 400% in the current year. The latest funding brings the total amount it has raised to date to 11.7m and is expected to create a further 10 jobs in Cambridge.

FinSMEs

07/08/2024
In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Vikas Khanna opened up about the idea and how much he relates to the story read more

Renowned chef Vikas Khanna has collaborated with Ek Desh, the social impact vertical of House of Omkar, to make a 3-min short film, titled Pinky Ka Basta. And in an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Khanna opened up about the idea and how much he relates to the story.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

How did the idea of Pinky Ka Bastaa come about?

The story of Pinky Ka Basta is inspired by a true incident. In fact, It all began while I was promoting , a documentary based on the life of Karthiyani Amma who went to school at 96 years. During the promotions, we visited a school to distribute school bags to the students. While we were leaving, we met a young girl outside and we asked her if she wanted a bag, to which she replied that she doesnt since she has dropped off school. This prompted a conversation with the schools Principal followed by research by the team. Thats when we discovered that significant % of girls in some parts of the country had not returned to school since the pandemic. Girls, more than boys, face heightened risks of abuse and sexual violence, increased burden of domestic care work and dropping out of educational institutions. Girls are also at a disadvantage when it comes to socializing and play, facing mental health challenges, and access to digital technology.

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When resources are scarce at the household level, girls tend to be drawn into domestic and care work within households much more than boys. As the families income levels dropped amid the Covid-19 pandemic, female students have borne the brunt of disrupted education with all efforts to promote education previously going in reverse. As a consequence of closed schools and inequitable distribution of resources, more boys than girls have access to digital infrastructures such as mobile phones, internet services, radio, and media. It is pertinent to note that there exists a 50% gender gap in mobile internet users in India where 21% of women and 42% of men use mobile internet. This became even more evident due to the sudden shift from classroom learning to virtual learning, there was a gender-based digital divide that made the situation difficult for adolescent girls. You will see that situation in the film as well and that was a reality during the pandemic. If the household had one phone, that was used by the boy of the house to study and not the girl in most cases. Such situations inspired us to create Pinky Ka Basta.

What inspires you to raise awareness for education for adolescent girls?

 57% girls drop-out upon reaching the 11th grade.

 Distance to school act as significant roadblock: For every hundred elementary schools (classes I to VIII) in rural India, there were only fourteen offering secondary (classes IX-X) and only six offering higher secondary grades (classes XI-XII).

 Infrastructural barriers for adolescent girls

 46% schools DO NOT have functional WASH facilities ( Toilet, Drinking Water, Handwashing)

 35% schools lack a Boundary wall

 16.6% secondary schools in India without female teachers

 The disadvantages faced by girls is stark when it comes to the accessing education, sexual and reproductive health, food and nutrition, ensuring menstrual hygiene, and dealing with mobility and migration.

 Moreover, given the gender norms and practices that discriminate against the girl child, boys education is often prioritized, and girls are pulled out of schools, especially if poor families cannot afford to send both boys and girls to school at the same time.

I personally believe that harnessing the potential of women and girls can have a significant effect on societal and economic advancement. According to the World Bank, one year of secondary education can make a 25% difference in wages for women. Pinky Ka Basta aims to rally the common Indian to acknowledge the severity of this issue and work together for the better future for these girls.

How much can you relate to the story?

I personally 100% relate to this story. I have seen the discrimination happen between boys and girls and its heart breaking. I grew up in a household surrounded by women  my grandmother, mother, my aunts, my sister. The biggest influence in my life was Biji, my grandmother. She was not educated but she was extremely sharp and super intelligent. I always wonder if she had had the benefit of education, how far would she have come and how would she have changed the world. When I wanted to become a Chef, she had the foresight and was the one who believed in me the most. Even with House of Omkar, our film production house, we believe we can be the catalysts for driving social change through cinema. Our debut film, The Last Color was about widows being allowed to play with color to Barefoot Empress that captured the perseverance of Karthiyeni Amma who went to school at 94 years. Our upcoming film Imaginary Rain is yet again a story of resilience of a 65 year woman chef.

Your one takeaway from the short film?

As part of Pinky Ka Bastas Bags To School campaign, we wanted to raise awareness and enable and empower young girls to become self reliant and independent. Our goal is to bring them back into the grid  whether its academics or skilling. As we concluded the film, I realized how privileged I was to have access to opportunities that girls like Pinky lack. Education is a fundamental right and essential for survival in todays fast-paced world.

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What qualities should a filmmaker possess that are similar to those of a chef?

Both are an art form. I think that one thing that filmmakers and chefs have in common is the creativity and originality in their work. Just as a chef uses the right ingredients to craft a perfect dish, a filmmaker must know how to narrate the right tale to their viewers. Both professions rely on their unique vision to create experiences that not only entertain the audiences but also educate and inspire.

Why do you think stories like Pinky Ka Basta are important for people to know?

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With Pinky Ka Basta we aim to highlight the devastating impact of the pandemic on education for adolescent girls, bringing forth their ongoing struggles in accessing educational opportunities. This story sheds light on the countless number of girls who, due to the crisis, have had to abandon their schooling, facing early marriages or being forced into domestic work! We believe that educating a girl helps us build the future, and empower the next generation in making a better tomorrow. An educated girl contributes to reducing child marriages, alleviating poverty, and increasing womens participation in society. Ultimately, this empowerment leads to a significant economic impact.
According reports published in GB New, Eric Trump, Donald Trumps son Eric Trump mentioned, You can happily have those two (Meghan and Harry) back. Well happily send them back from America. You can have them back over here, but Im not sure if you want them anymore, Eric jokingly added. We might not want them anymore; it feels like theyre on an island of their own.

Looks like Meghans efforts to establish herself as a celebrity in America by hobnobbing with Hollywood actors, she was never accepted by them. She has failed completely in fulfilling her American dreams.

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Eric Trump, Donald Trumps son on the Royal British Family

Eric praised the royal family as a beautiful and sacred Institute, he seemingly hinted at Markles past acting career, saying there can be bad actors and spoiled apples in any orchard.

Why Harry and Meghan are called bad apples?

According to Page Six report, Erics father also previously suggested that Harry and the American-born actress may have to relocate after the red-headed royal admitted to taking drugs in the States in his controversial memoir Spare. 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 Harrys future could be uncertain.

Donald further said Harry should not have any special privileges and appropriate action must be taken if he lied on his US visa application.

Earlier Firstpost had written that what Meghan Markle was looking for was instant fame and money which she got from Netflixs Harry & Meghan and later she was the mastermind behind Harrys controversial book Spare. But now what? Their American dream life is equally shaky and Harry can be deported any moment. Prince Harrys US visa is also at risk now because of his memoir Spare in which the Duke of Sussex admitted to using recreational drugs before he left the UK after stepping down from the royal duties and shifted to US.
India brought back 190 non-essential staff and their families a special Air India (AI1128) flight. Another 20 to 30 senior staff remain at the Dhaka High Commission. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that there are around 19,000 Indians in Bangladesh and that New Delhi expects Dhaka to provide security to keep its missions safe read more

Men run past a burning vehicle inside the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital, set on fire by protesters, during a rally against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government demanding justice for the victims killed in the recent countrywide deadly clashes, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. AP

Amid the scenes of chaos and violence in Bangladesh, India has brought back all non-essential embassy staff and their families from Dhaka.

The development comes just days after Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled after a weekend of violence in which over 100 people were killed.

Sources told Reuters that all Indian diplomats remain in Bangladesh and the missions are functional.

Besides the high commission or embassy in the capital Dhaka, India has assistant high commissions or consulates in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet.

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But what happened? How many Indians are in Bangladesh? And how safe are they?

Lets take a closer look:

What happened?

As per India Today, 190 non-essential staff and their families were brought back on a special Air India (AI1128) flight.

Sources told the outlet that 20 to 30 senior staff remain at the Dhaka High Commission.

Deccan Chronicle reported that non-essential staff are heading back to India on a voluntary basis via commercial flights.

PTI reported that Air India will operate its regularly scheduled flights from Delhi to Dhaka from August 7.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said that there are around 19,000 Indians in Bangladesh.

Of these, 9,000 are students  most of whom returned to India in July.

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

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, Jaishankar said.

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How safe are they?

India Today quoted Jaishankar as saying at an all-party meet that the situation in Bangladesh was not so dire as to require that all Indian nationals be evacuated.

Jaishankar on Tuesday said New Delhi expected that Dhaka would keep its missions safe in Bangladesh.

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, he added as per NDTV.

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 minister said.

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New Delhi brought 190 non-essential staff and their families back to India on a special Air India flight.

The protests have created a volatile environment, prompting India to take precautionary measures for its diplomatic staff.

But questions about the safety of Indian nationals abound.

Bangladesh has seen a spate of violent attacks on Hindus, their homes and their places of worship over the past few days.

The ISKCON and Kali temples have been vancalised.

On Monday, the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, in Dhakas Dhanmondi, was vandalised.

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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.

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.

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A Kali temple in the same area was also set ablaze.

A number of videos purportedly of Hindus being attacked in Bangladesh have gone viral.

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.

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 added.

With inputs from agencies
In the aftermath of Sheikh Hasinas dramatic ouster as prime minister, Bangladesh has seen an outbreak of violence targeting the minority Hindus. This unrest puts the spotlight on the Islamisation of the country, brought in by General Hussain Muhammad Ershad, who made Islam the national religion in 1988 read more

Former President General Hussain Muhammad Ershad in Dhaka. He is responsible for declaring Islam to be the national religion of Bangladesh in 1988. File image/Reuters

Shortly after Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and made a dramatic exit from the country on board a military aircraft to India, the minority population of Hindus residing in Bangladesh became targets of violence.

The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) reported that between Monday and Tuesday, a large number of Hindu homes and businesses were vandalised, and numerous temples were damaged. There were also reports of Hindu temples being vandalised  an ISKCON and a Kali temple in Bangladesh were targeted by demonstrators.

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The attacks on Hindus in the aftermath of Hasinas ouster put the spotlight on the countrys religious composition  Hindus make up about eight per cent of Bangladeshs population  and the man who made Islam the national religion of Bangladesh  General Hussain Muhammad Ershad.

Notably, it was Sheikh Hasina in 2011 that reinstated secularism as one of the fundamental principles of Bangladeshs constitution, but reaffirmed Islam as the state religion.

As the Southeast Asian nation now grapples with political turmoil as well as communal unrest, lets take a closer look at General Hussain Muhammad Ershad.

Born in India

General Hussain Mohammad Ershad, who died in July 2019, dominated the country for most of the 1980s and early 90s after he snatched power in Bangladesh through a bloodless coup in 1982, just 11 years after its independence from Pakistan.

Notably, he is the only one referred to as the dictator in Bangladeshi political vernacular even though the country has been governed by leaders with varying degrees of dictatorial aspirations since the 1950s.

However, its interesting to note that the army chief had roots in India. He was born on February 1, 1930, in the Coochbehar district of West Bengal state in India, which was under British rule at the time. His parents, Mokbul Hossain and Mazida Khatun, migrated to what is now Bangladesh but was then part of Pakistan in 1948, after the end of British colonial rule in the Indian subcontinent.

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Ershad attended Carmichael College, Rangpur, then the University of Dhaka, graduating in 1950. After officer training school in Kohat, Pakistan, then at the Command and Staff College in Quetta, in 1969 he was made a commanding officer in the East Bengal Regiment. However, during the war of his countrys independence from Pakistan in 1971, he was interned and repatriated to Bangladesh in 1973.

General Hussain Muhammad Ershad dominated the country for most of the 1980s and early 90s after he snatched power in Bangladesh through a bloodless coup in 1982. File image/Reuters

Rise to the top

He gained prominence in Bangladesh when army chief of staff General Ziaur Rahman appointed Ershad as his deputy in 1975. Due to his professionalism and talent for Bengali speechwriting, Ershad became one of Rahmans closest politico-military advisers. He was promoted to chief of staff and the rank of lieutenant general in 1978.

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In May 1981, Bangladesh was left in shock when Rahman was assassinated by a faction of Bangladesh army officers. Following Rahmans killing, his Vice President Abdus Sattar automatically became acting president. Ershad was initially loyal to Sattar, but a year later in 1982, he overthrew a frail Sattar, forcing him to sign a statement declaring himself president.

As president of Bangladesh, he suspended the constitution, disbanded parliament and reportedly also harassed and tortured his political opponents.

The Guardian reports that under Ershads rule, Bangladesh was not a land of mass terror, imprisonment and execution. It was, rather, a country where cynicism and despair were almost palpable; where corruption reached into every corner.

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Many report that he also cultivated this image of him being a poetic, cultured man. In fact, he would often arrive late to international conferences with the excuse that he had just been penning a couple of stanzas.

In 1986, he created the Jatiya Party, which has since remained a significant electoral force.

Ershad served as president until 1990 when he was forced to step down following weeks of anti-government, pro-democracy protests in a mass uprising led by Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina. The following year, Ershad was arrested and jailed on corruption charges. He was acquitted of many of them but convicted of corruption and imprisoned for six years. He was also accused of backing a 1991 military coup in which one of his close military associates was killed. That case was still pending until his death.

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Despite his jail term, Ershad remained a dominant force in politics until the time of his demise. In the 2013 and 2018 elections, he provided Hasina with the crucial political legitimacy that her government required.

People walk past a vandalised car in Dhaka, Bangladesh following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Following her departure, the country has seen violence, mainly targeting the Hindu minority. AP

Islamisation of Bangladesh

In 1988, General Ershad, as president, amended Bangladeshs constitution and made Islam the official religion of the country. Until then, Bangladesh had been a secular nation, with secularism even being penned down as one of the pillars of the constitution.

Many note that Ershads move, which was aimed at gaining popularity, was in line with his mentor, General Ziaur Rahmans belief. Rahman had first begun the process of Islamisation of the constitution in the 1970s and Ershad continued this in his regime.

Ershad introduced the controversial Fifth and Eighth Amendments respectively, which had the effect of erasing the founding, pro-secular principles of the country. Many watchers note that these amendments brought about changes in the countrys politics and also provided a conducive ground for Islamists to grow.

Later, in 2011, Hasina and her Awami League repealed the Fifth Amendment and reinstated secularism in the constitution; she also declared that Islam would be the state religion. She also passed a law that ensured that the State would provide equal status and equal rights to those who practise other religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity. It also said the principle of secularism shall be realised by the elimination of communalism in all its forms, the granting of political status for any religion, the prevention of the abuse of religion for political purposes and the ending of discrimination against or persecution of persons on religious grounds.

It is left to be seen if the principle of secularism is practised in Bangladesh following Hasinas ouster.

With inputs from agencies
In the aftermath of Sheikh Hasinas abrupt exit from Bangladesh, her party leaders have been at the receiving end of the protesters anger. Reports say that 29 members of the Awami League have died in the ensuing protests, while some others have been detained. In such circumstances, the question many are asking is if the countrys oldest party will be able to ride the storm? 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.

On Monday (August 5), a seismic took place in Bangladesh when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina besieged by violent demonstrations resigned and fled to India. Hours after she exited the country in the most dramatic fashion and made her to way India  where she continues to remain  her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, confirmed that Hasina, age 77, is never coming back to politics.

In the aftermath of her exit, it seems that the Awami League  a party once spearheaded by Hasinas late father and the nations founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, may face a prolonged period of political bankruptcy.

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We take a look at why the party may struggle to recover and regain its former status.

Awami League leaders killed, offices ransacked

Since Sunday, Bangladesh has been gripped by violence and chaos. Agitators have been on a rampage, storming Hasinas official residence  the Ganabhaban  and looting it. Even after Hasinas departure, the agitators have been continuing their protests, ransacking buildings.

Amid this violence, reports have emerged that bodies of 29 leaders of the Awami League and their family members have been recovered from different parts of the country. At least 10 were killed in violence in Satkhira after Hasinas resignation and departure on Monday. Houses and business establishments belonging to several Awami League leaders were vandalised and looted, The Dhaka Tribune reported.

In Cumilla, at least 11 people were killed in attacks by mobs. Six people died as a three-storey house of former councillor Mohammad Shah Alam was set on fire by miscreants. An angry mob also set ablaze the house of Shafiqul Islam Shimul, an MP of Bangladesh.

On Monday (August 5), rioters also torched a five-star hotel owned by Jashore district Awami Leagues general secretary Shahin Chaklader in the Khulna division. This resulted in 24 people, mostly boarders, being burnt alive. The bodies were lying on different floors, said Mamun Mahmud, Deputy Director of Khulna Fire Service.

Protesters also didnt spare the Awami League office in the capital. According to some reports, the demonstrators stole furniture, tiles, rods and even commodes from the office before setting it on fire. 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.

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The house of Asaduzzaman Khan, Bangladeshs home minister under Hasinas rule, was also ransacked.

Behind bars or fleeing the country

Apart from the vandalism of offices and properties belonging to those affiliated with the Awami League, the party leaders are also at the receiving end of legal consequences. On Tuesday, former Communications Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak was barred from boarding a plane at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and taken under custody in immigration.

Prothom Alo, citing sources said, that Palak was trying to leave for Nepal but was not allowed to leave. He has now been taken under custody and barred from leaving the country.

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Similarly, former Bangladesh Foreign Minister and Awami Leagues joint secretary Hasan Mahmud was detained at Dhaka Airport while he attempted to leave the country. He has now been handed over to the army.

While Mahmud and Palak were nabbed and detained, others have gone into hiding or have already fled the nation. For instance, the partys second-in-command, Obaidul Quader, who also served as the minister of road, transport, and bridges in Hasinas now-abolished final Cabinet, is nowhere to be seen. Reports suggest he left the country even before Hasina did.

Salman F Rahman, the prime ministers private industry and investment adviser and a lawmaker, also fled the country on Sunday night, according to his confidants. However, the sources were unable to confirm which country he was heading to.

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A Times of India report, citing sources, also said that India had received several requests from former Bangladesh ministers and leaders of her Awami League party to allow them to cross into the Indian side through land routes after borders were sealed.

Resentment and anger against Hasina

Hasinas sudden exit from Bangladesh  she was reportedly given only 45 minutes to leave the nation  caught everyone, including her own party members, unaware. A senior military official, who did not wish to be named, told BBC Bangla that only the Special Security Force, the Presidential Guard Regiment and some senior military officers at army headquarters knew when Sheikh Hasina signed the resignation letter and boarded the military helicopter that would fly her out of her residence. The whole thing was done quite secretly.

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Reports say that many within the Awami League feel betrayed by Hasinas sudden departure, especially since she left them and the partys activists to confront the protesters alone. The Diplomat reports that they had no knowledge that resignation and a safe exit were on Hasinas mind, and thus they continued to follow her orders unquestioningly.

Reportedly, the Awami League leaders, who are now in hiding, said that had they known about Hasinas plan, they would have either left the country or gone into hiding before it was too late.

Challenge to fill a power vacuum

Now with Sheikh Hasinas departure and several of her party leaders in hiding, it seems almost impossible for the Awami League to fill the void. After all, the leadership of the party has been concentrated in the hands of Hasina and her family alone.

While Hasina was in power, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy enjoyed great privileges and was appointed as her personal adviser. However, he hasnt been popular with the Bangladeshi people nor with his party activists, diminishing his legitimacy as a successor. Following Hasinas abrupt departure, Joys prospects of playing an active role in Awami League politics seem slimmer than ever.

Moreover, the party has no clear leadership structure. This will make it even more difficult for the Awami League to contest the elections, which should take place soon under the watchful eye of the interim government.

As The Diplomat wrote, it seems unlikely that Awami League, the countrys oldest party, will be able to recover and regain its former status even in the next five years.

With inputs from agencies
The UK has been rocked by violent riots, with misinformation on Elon Musks platform, X, playing a significant role. Musks incendiary comments, including declaring civil war is inevitable, have drawn condemnation from officials. As the government struggles to maintain order and calls for Musks accountability grow louder, questions arise about the impact of social media on public safety and the responsibilities of tech giants read more

Elon Musk, Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and Tesla and owner of X, formerly known as Twitter, attends the Viva Technology conference dedicated to innovation and startups at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre in Paris, France, June 16, 2023. File Image/Reuters

Britain has been engulfed in violent unrest for over a week, with clashes between police and protesters occurring in multiple cities across England and in towns of Northern Ireland as well.

The turmoil began following a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in Southport on July 29, which resulted in the tragic deaths of three young girls. Misinformation quickly spread on social media, falsely identifying the attacker as an asylum seeker, which fuelled the ensuing riots marked by anti-immigrant and Islamophobic slogans.

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How is Elon Musk involved in the unrest?

Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), has played a controversial role in the ongoing situation. Musk posted a series of incendiary comments on X, including a declaration that civil war is inevitable in the UK.

Civil war is inevitable  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 4, 2024

He also criticised the British criminal justice system, claiming it treats Muslims more leniently than far-right activists and compared the UKs social media crackdown to the Soviet Union. These comments have been widely condemned by UK officials.

UK Justice Minister Heidi Alexander was vocal about Musks irresponsible use of his platform, stating, Use of language such as a civil war is in no way acceptable. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, while avoiding direct engagement with Musk, described the riots as far-right thuggery and stressed that those responsible would face swift justice.

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I utterly condemn the far-right thuggery we have seen this weekend.



Be in no doubt: those who have participated in this violence will face the full force of the law. pic.twitter.com/uNeJtD8pCQ  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) August 4, 2024

In response to the violence, more than 400 individuals have been arrested, with around 100 charged. Starmer underlined the urgency of maintaining public safety and restoring order. The UK government has called on social media companies, including Musks X, to do more in combating the spread of misleading and inflammatory information online.

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Alexander highlighted the importance of strengthening the Online Safety Act, which was approved last year and is set to be fully implemented by 2025. She acknowledged some positive steps taken by social media companies but insisted that more action is needed, especially regarding the automatic removal of false information.

Will Musk be held accountable?

UK Labour MPs Chi Onwurah and Dawn Butler, both candidates for chairing Parliaments science, innovation, and technology committee, have expressed their intent to summon Musk for questioning about Xs role in the riots, reported Politico.

Dear Mr Musk we seek to protect all communities and speak out when specific communities are targeted as is the case here. And speaking of targeting shouldn't you be concerned about X's role in spreading misinformation and responsibility not to incite racial hatred? https://t.co/OCLSASy7OY  Chi Onwurah  (@ChiOnwurah) August 5, 2024

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Onwurah criticised X for promoting misinformation and racial hatred, stating that the platform has a responsibility not to incite racial hatred. Butler shared similar concerns, highlighting the need for transparency in Xs content moderation processes.

Butler recounted her own experience of reporting abusive messages on X, to Politico, only to be told that they did not reach the threshold for removal. Both MPs have committed to pressing Musk for more accountability if elected to chair the committee.

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Is this a first for Musk?

Musks involvement in the UK riots is part of a broader pattern of controversial political engagement. Earlier this year, he clashed with a Brazilian supreme court justice over issues of free speech, far-right accounts, and purported misinformation on X.

He also accused Venezuelas socialist president, Nicolas Maduro, of major election fraud following a disputed election.

Major election fraud by Maduro https://t.co/fi4xcSVd2Y  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 29, 2024

Musks comments and actions are closely watched by his substantial following, which includes individuals who admire his business success and see him as a visionary. Stephanie Alice Baker, a sociologist at City University of London, told AP that Musks impulsive comments are often perceived by his fans as part of his genius.

Is Musk a threat to online safety?

The UKs legislative and regulatory environment is facing significant challenges in addressing the influence of social media. The Online Safety Act aims to provide a framework for regulating harmful content, but its full implementation is still some time away.

Alex Krasodomski of Chatham House noted that Musks combative stance towards regulators is atypical in the tech industry, highlighting his resistance to efforts aimed at moderating content on his platform, reported AP.

Musks interactions with far-right figures like Tommy Robinson and his support for Donald Trumps re-election campaign in the US indicate a shift towards more politically charged rhetoric.

His use of the hashtag #2tierkeir in reference to perceived double standards in policing further inflamed the situation. Musks critics argue that his behaviour poses a threat to social stability, while his supporters view him as a staunch advocate for free speech.

How is Musk fanning the flames?

The UK government has consistently rebuked Musks comments. A spokesperson for Starmer stated, Theres no justification for comments like that. What weve seen in this country is organised, violent thuggery that has no place, either on our streets or online.

Despite the criticism, Musk has continued to post provocative comments, questioning whether the riots were happening in Britain or the Soviet Union and interacting with far-right activists.

Also Watch:

The British government is also dealing with allegations of two-tier policing, a conspiracy theory promoted by figures like Tommy Robinson and Nigel Farage. They claim that police are treating white far-right protesters more harshly than minority groups.

Parliament must be recalled for a proper debate. pic.twitter.com/OrQa7o38a1  Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) August 5, 2024

UK Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Courts Minister Heidi Alexander have robustly dismissed these claims, stating that all individuals, regardless of their background, will face the full force of the law if they participate in violent disorder.

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.  Shabana Mahmood MP (@ShabanaMahmood) August 6, 2024

What is the impact of social media on the UK riots?

The role of social media in exacerbating the riots cannot be understated. The spread of misinformation about the knife attack and the coordination of violent protests through platforms like X have significantly contributed to the unrest.

Musks provocative comments and the platforms algorithms, which amplify sensational content, have further inflamed the situation.

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

Labour MPs have been urged to avoid engaging in online debates about the riots and to focus on promoting unity and community resilience. According to The Guardian, Chief Whip Alan Campbell advised MPs to amplify positive messages from their local communities and to engage with faith leaders to help restore order and calm.

With inputs from agencies
Scientists say the length of a day on Earth could extend to 25 hours after 200 million years since the Moon is moving away from the planet. This phenomenon is mainly attributed to the tidal forces that are generated by the Earth and Moons gravitational interactions with one another read more

We all have the same 24 hours in a day.

However, this is going to change in future.

Scientists say the length of a day on Earth could extend to 25 hours as the Moon is moving away from the planet.

The development is also likely to change the relationship between the planet and its only natural satellite.

25 hours in a day

The drifting of the Moon has been impacting the length of days on Earth, albeit very slowly, according to scientists.

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Currently, the Moons average distance from Earth is 384,400 kilometres (238,855 miles). An orbit around the Earth takes almost a month, or 27.3 days, to complete.

In a study, researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison examined the formation of rocks 90 million years ago.

The team also examined Earths interactions with the Moon approximately 1.4 billion years ago in this research. The geophysical features of the Earth today are shaped in part by these ancient interactions, as per Business Today.

The Moon turns out to be moving 3.82 centimetres away from Earth annually. After 200 million years, this will cause Earth days to gradually increase to 25 hours.

According to their findings, the rate of recession of the Moon is rather consistent at the moment, but it has varied throughout geological timescales because of several factors, such as continental drift and the speed at which the Earth rotates.

The phenomenon behind the drifting

The main cause of this phenomenon is thought to be the tidal forces that are generated by the Earth and Moons gravitational interactions with one another.

Stephen Meyers, a geoscience professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and co-author of the study, used the example of a figure skater to describe the occurrence.

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She said, As the moon moves away, the Earth is like a spinning figure skater who slows down as they stretch their arms out. Like a figure skater, Earth also slows its rotation as the Moon moves away.

One of our ambitions was to use astrochronology to tell time in the most distant past, to develop very ancient geological time scales, he added.

We want to be able to study rocks that are billions of years old in a way that is comparable to how we study modern geologic processes, Meyers said.

Another professor, who studies the relationship between the Moon and the Earth, explains how its all about tides. The tidal drag on the Earth slows its rotation down and the Moon gains that energy as angular momentum, David Waltham, a professor of geophysics at Royal Holloway, University of London, told Bloomberg.

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Moon has an atmosphere

Meanwhile, in a similar new study about the Moon, the NASA astronauts who became the first people to land on the moons surface in the 1960s and 1970s, have discovered a previously unknown lunar characteristic - it has an atmosphere, though quite tenuous.

Soil samples they retrieved are now revealing the main physical process driving this atmosphere, as per Reuters.

By analysing which forms of two elements - potassium and rubidium - were present in nine tiny soil samples from five Apollo missions, researchers determined that the lunar atmosphere was created and is sustained primarily by the effects of meteorites, large and small, striking the moons surface.

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Meteorite impacts generate high temperatures ranging from 2,000-6,000 degrees Celsius (3,600-10,800 degrees Fahrenheit). These extreme temperatures melt and vaporize rocks on the lunar surface, similar to how heat vaporises water, releasing atoms into the atmosphere, said Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) planetary scientist and cosmochemist Nicole Nie, lead author of the study published on Friday in the journal Science Advances.

The lunar atmosphere is extremely thin and technically classified as an exosphere, meaning atoms do not collide with each other because their numbers are so sparse, in contrast to Earths thick and stable atmosphere.

The Apollo missions carried instruments to the lunar surface which detected atoms in the air, Nie said.

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The moon has been constantly bombarded by meteorites - early in its history by large ones that gashed the gaping craters visible on the lunar surface and more recently by smaller ones including dust-sized micrometeorites.

Some of the atoms lofted by these impacts fly off into space. The rest remain suspended above the surface in an atmosphere regularly replenished as more meteorites land.

Many important questions about the lunar atmosphere remain unanswered. We are now able to address some of these questions due to advancements in technology, Nie said, adding, When Apollo samples were returned from the moon in the 1970s, the isotopic compositions of potassium and rubidium in lunar soils were measured using mass spectrometers. However, at that time, no isotopic differences were observed. Todays mass spectrometers offer much greater precision.

With inputs from Reuters
Pita Limjaroenrat stunned many in last years general election by guiding the progressive Move Forward Party (MFP) to first place. However, his ascendancy to prime minister was blocked by conservatives in Thailands Senate. Now, the countrys Constitutional Court in Bangkok has unanimously voted to dissolve the MFP and bar Pita from politics for 10 years read more

Former Move Forward Party's leader Pita Limjaroenrat has been banned from politics for a decade. Reuters

Thailand just got rid of its most popular politician.

Pita Limjaroenrat has been barred from office for a decade and the progressive Move Forward Party (MFP) has been dissolved.

Pitas sin? Vowing to reform the countrys law dealing with lese-majeste  defaming the monarchy.

But what happened exactly? And what happens next?

Lets take a closer look:

Judge Punya Udchachon announced that the Constitutional Court in Bangkok had unanimously voted to dissolve the Move Forward Party (MFP).

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Udchachon added that the partys executive board, which comprises a number of its top leaders including Pita, have been barred from holding office for 10 years.

The 43-year-old stunned many in last years general election by guiding the MFP to first place.

Pita wooed young and urban voters with his promises to reform Thailands strict royal defamation law, which rights groups say has been misused to stifle pro-democracy groups.

But it was not to be.

Pitas ascendancy was halted by conservatives in Thailands Senate.

Instead of Pita, a coalition of army-linked parties took office under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.

Pitas political career received yet another blow in March after Thailands election commission asked the top court to dissolve the MFP.

Former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat. Reuters File

That came on the heels of the election commission stating that the MFPs vow to reform the lese-majeste law was in effect a bid to overthrow the constitutional monarchy.

Lese-majeste charges are extremely serious in Thailand.

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King Maha Vajiralongkorn enjoys a quasi-divine status that places him above politics.

Have faith in younger generation

A few dozen supporters dressed in the partys trademark orange gathered in front of MFP headquarters in Bangkok, according to an AFP journalist.

Siriporn Tanapitiporn, a 53-year-old food market vendor, cried after the verdict was read.

But I have faith in the younger generation, they will return the democracy back to our country, she said.

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Sakhorn Kamtalang, 60, said the court didnt have the right to dissolve the party.

To me, Pita is my PM. The current PM is just a salesman, who isnt fit as the country leader, she said.

Hua Jaidee, a 69-year-old university housekeeper, said good people always end up being bullied.

Thailands King Maha Vajiralongkorn. AP

Pita appeared in parliament in high spirits earlier on Wednesday, telling lawmakers he had faith in the kingdoms legal process.

He warned against the weaponisation of Thailands judicial system, saying in an interview with AFP before the ruling that 33 parties had been dissolved over the past two decades, including four major ones that were popularly elected.

The issue is not what we will do if we are dissolved - that is already taken care of and our ideas will survive  but rather the pattern of weaponising the judiciary and independent bodies that we should pay attention to, he said.

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We should not normalise this behaviour or accept the use of a politicised court as a weapon to destroy political parties.

The MFP has 148 seats in Thailands 500-seat parliament and Pita said its executive would form a new vehicle if the party was dissolved.

Pita first appeared on the political scene in 2018 as part of the progressive Future Forward Party (FFP), which was dissolved in 2020, sparking mass youth-led demonstrations that shook Bangkok for months.

Tens of thousands took to the streets at the height of the protests, many making unprecedented public criticism of the royal family as well as demands for transparency and reform.

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More than 270 people were charged with lese-majeste after those protests, including two elected MPs.

While I cannot and will not stop peaceful assembly  which I fully support  it is the right of people in a democratic system to express opposition to anything they see as unjust, Pita said.

New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) says the lese-majeste law has been routinely used to silence political dissent.

Thai authorities prosecuted at least 258 people last year on lese-majeste charges in relation to activities undertaken at democracy protests or comments made on social media, HRW said in its 2024 World Report.

Thailand, Southeast Asias second-largest economy, is known for its chronic instability, with a dozen coups since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932.

Here is a look at the turbulent two decades that led to the pivotal decision by the Constitutional Court.

2006, September 19: Following significant protests, royalist generals overthrow billionaire prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who had been in power since 2001. The military takes control.

2007, December 23: First post-coup elections are won by the Peoples Power Party (PPP), allied with Thaksin.

2008 May: The anti-Thaksin royalist movement known as the Yellow Shirts organises large protests.

October: A court sentences Thaksin, who is in exile, to two years in prison.

December: The Constitutional Court dissolves the PPP. The leader of the Democrat Party, Abhisit Vejjajiva, supported by the Yellow Shirts, becomes prime minister.

2009: January-March: Pro-Thaksin Red Shirts protest against Abhisit.

April: The Red Shirts storm the venue of an Asian summit in Pattaya. Leaders flee, the meeting is cancelled. The state of emergency lasts 12 days and violence results in two deaths.

2010 February 26: The Supreme Court confiscates half of Thaksins fortune (about 1.4 billion dollars), finding him guilty of abuse of power.

March 14: Tens of thousands of Red Shirts settle in Bangkok.

May 19: The army launches a final assault on the Red Shirts fortified camp. The crisis results in more than 90 deaths and 1,900 injuries in less than three months.

2011, July 3: General elections are held. The pro-Thaksin Pheu Thai Party, led by Thaksins sister Yingluck Shinawatra, wins the election.

August 5: Yingluck becomes prime minister.

2012 December: Authorities announce charges against Abhisit for the deadly 2010 crackdown.

2013 August 7: Parliament begins deliberation on an amnesty bill that critics argue could allow Thaksins return.

October 31: The Yellow Shirts begin near-daily protests. Several ministries and government offices are besieged.

December 9: The government announces early elections.

December 26: Clashes occur between law enforcement and protesters outside a Bangkok stadium where candidacies are being registered. A policeman and a protester are killed, and election commission members are evacuated by helicopter.

2014, January 13: The Yellow Shirts start an operation to paralyse Bangkok, calling for a military coup.

February 2: General elections are heavily disrupted. They are eventually invalidated.

May 22: Army chief Prayut Chan-O-Cha leads a coup. Elections are promised but repeatedly delayed.

2019, March 24: Legislative elections are held, marked by a strong showing from the opposition Future Forward Party. However, General Prayut remains in power, thanks to a political system that allows the military to appoint senators.

2020: Massive pro-democracy protests demand reform of the monarchy and the militarys exit from power.

2023, May 14: Thailand holds general elections. Opposition leader Pita Limjaroenrat claims victory for his progressive Move Forward party, the successor of Future Forward, and aims to form a government coalition to succeed the generals.

July 13: Pita fails to secure a parliamentary vote to become prime minister, as senators appointed by the military reject his candidacy.

August 22: Thaksin returns to Thailand after 15 years in self exile. On the same day, Srettha Thavisin, from a party controlled by the Shinawatra family, becomes prime minister through a controversial coalition with pro-military parties.

January 2024: Pita is cleared by the judiciary in a case related to his assets and returns as an opposition MP.

In another case, the Constitutional Court orders Move Forward to abandon its promise to reform the lese-majeste law. This decision paves the way for the dissolution of the party, accused of attempting to overthrow the monarchy.

February: Thaksin regains his freedom after a shortened detention of six months, most of which was spent in a hospital.

August 7: The Move Forward Party is dissolved and Pita is banned from politics for 10 years by the Constitutional Court.
Indian-origin US judge Amit Mehta ruled that Googles ubiquitous search engine has been illegally exploiting its dominance to squash competition and stifle innovation. Appointed by former US President Barack Obama, Mehta is the first Asian-Pacific American to be sworn into the District Court for the District of Columbia read more

Amit Mehta ruled on Monday, August 5, that Google violated antitrust law after a massive trial involving the tech giant. Image Courtesy: @leslibless/X

A US judge on Monday ruled that Googles ubiquitous search engine has been illegally exploiting its dominance to squash competition and stifle innovation.

The highly anticipated seismic decision, which could shake up the internet landscape, was issued by Indian-origin US District Judge Amit Mehta.

It comes nearly a year after the start of a trial pitting the US Justice Department against Google in the countrys biggest antitrust showdown in a quarter century.

Mehtas ruling was unequivocal.

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Google is a monopolist and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly.

Heres all we know about him.

Who is District Court Judge Amit Mehta?

Born in Gujarats Patan in 1971, Amit Mehta moved to the United States with his parents at the age of one, as per Jagran Josh.

Raised in Maryland, he earned his Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and Economics from Georgetown University in 1993 and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1997.

Mehta started his legal journey at the San Francisco office of Latham and Watkins LLP in the same year.

According to NDTV, he also clerked for the Honourable Susan P Graber of the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

In 1999, Mehta joined Zuckerman Spaeder LLP in Washington, DC and then the District of Columbia Public Defender Service as a staff attorney from 2002 to 2007.

He returned to Zuckerman Spaeder in 2007, where he focused on white-collar criminal defence, complex business disputes, and appellate advocacy.

At the time, Mehta also served on the Board of Directors of the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project and co-chaired the District of Columbia Bars Criminal Law and Individual Rights Section Steering Committee, as per The Times of India.

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He was also active in other legal groups, serving as the director of a non-profit organisation, Facilitating Leadership in Youth, which was dedicated to after-school activities and mentoring at-risk youth.

Various Google logos are displayed on a Google search, Monday, September 11, 2023, in New York. AP

On December 2, 2014, he was appointed to the US District Court for the District of Columbia, making him a federal judge. He was appointed by former US President Barack Obama and is the first Asian-Pacific American to be sworn into the District Court, as per Hindustan Times.

Mehta has represented high-profile clients, including former US Representative Tom Feeney and Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former president of the IMF, helping him defeat criminal assault charges in a New York court.

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As a judge, Mehta has made significant rulings, including cases related to the January 6 Capitol riots.

He denied former President Donald Trumps attempt to dismiss civil lawsuits holding him accountable for inciting the riot. Mehta wrote in his 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.

What did he say in the latest judgement?

Amit Mehta ruled on Monday, August 5, that Google violated antitrust law after a massive trial involving the tech giant.

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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. He said Googles dominance in the search market is evidence of its monopoly.

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.

According to The Associated Press, Mehtas 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 alone, Google spent more than $26 billion to lock in those default agreements, Mehta said in his ruling.

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It represents a major setback for Google and its parent, Alphabet Inc., which had steadfastly argued that its popularity stems from users choices, rather than anticompetitive practices.

Googles search engine 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.

In response to the unfavourable ruling, Google intends to file an appeal.

Kent Walker, Googles president of global affairs, said the company intends to appeal Mehtas findings.

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 company remains steadfast in its belief that its success is a result of providing superior services to its users.

With inputs from agencies
Sri Lankas controversial Rajapaksa clan, which suffered political battering due to the countrys worst economic crisis in 2022, is making a political comeback. Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) has named MP Namal Rajapaksa as the partys candidate for the September presidential election. The 38-year-old is the eldest son of former Sri Lankan President and PM Mahinda Rajapaksa and nephew of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa read more

At 38, Namal is the youngest candidate in this election. Image Courtesy: @RajapaksaNamal/X

Sri Lankas controversial Rajapaksa clan, which suffered political battering due to the countrys worst economic crisis in 2022, is making a political comeback in the upcoming presidential election this year.

The neighbouring countrys Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) has named MP Namal Rajapaksa as the partys candidate for the September election on Wednesday.

According to News18, Namal will be nominated for the top position as Casino King Dhammika Perera pulls out of the race.

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We need to take up challenges when it is needed, not when everyone else is up for it, Namal told ThePrint.

At 38, Namal is the youngest candidate in this election.

If he emerged victorious, he would become the youngest president of Sri Lanka.

Heres all we know about him.

About Namal Rajapaksa

Born on April 10, 1986, Namal Rajapaksa is the eldest son of former Sri Lankan President and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and nephew of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

He graduated with a law degree from City University London and later studied law at Sri Lanka Law College, reported News18.

His political journey began in 2010 when he contested the parliamentary election as one of the United Peoples Freedom Alliances candidates in Hambantota District. His father, Mahinda was also an MP from Hambantota for 16 years before becoming President in 2005.

Namal was re-elected as an MP from the same seat in 2015 and 2020.

In 2020, he became the Minister of Youth and Sports, however, he resigned from the post during the mass resignation of the Second Gotabaya Rajapaksa Cabinet, as per the report.

He was appointed as the National Organiser of the SLPP in March 2024.

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The 38-year-old is married to Limini Weerasinghe and has two children.

Earlier in January this year, Namal visited Ayodhyas historic Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. He told ANI, With the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram, the old glory has been restored to the original birthplace of the deity.

His controversies

Namal Rajapaksa is not new to controversy.

In 2016, he made headlines when he was arrested on suspicion of money laundering.

According to the BBC, he allegedly laundered 45 million Sri Lankan rupees (~Rs 1.25 crore) through two firms: NR Projects and Aspen.

The arrest came after Sri Lankan Nimal Perera confessed to collecting money for Namal.

#SLPP Electoral Convention of the Rathgama Electorate in the Galle District. pic.twitter.com/8DTGWilzvy  Namal Rajapaksa (@RajapaksaNamal) August 4, 2024

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As per a 2022 Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) investigation, Namal was accused of receiving millions of rupees in payoffs from Australian medical firm Aspen, which had no experience in large-scale healthcare projects.

The investigation claimed that the first transaction was worth 1.4 million euros (~Rs 12.83 crore) to a mysterious company named Sabre Vision Holdings in the British Virgin Islands, which was secretly owned by Perera, who was close to the Rajapaksa family.

In the same year, the opposition Janatha Vimukhti Peramuna (JVP) party further alleged payoffs made in construction projects involving Namal.

According to The Print, the party said that Pereras Sabre Vision had received 4.33 million euros (~Rs 39.68 crore) from NR Projects and another US$555,000 (~Rs 4.65 crore) from Aspen, which were then routed to an account held by Namal.

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At the time, Perera tweeted, Sabre Vision Holdings was a subsidiary of a diversified business entity founded in 1918 in Sri Lanka, and not owned by me."

According to the BBC, in 2016, several members of the powerful Rajapaksa family were under investigation over alleged corruption.

Namals brother Yoshitha was accused of money laundering, while Mahindas brother and former Economic Development Minister, Basil, was arrested three times over suspected misuse of funds and money laundering.

Namal had denied the allegations, saying that he and his family had no clue about the two companies.

Once again a documentary has surfaced with allegations that myself & my family are connected to a transaction between 2 companies that we have no clue abt, the yahapalana Govt accused me of many things for which I am still going to court. None have any connection to this!  Namal Rajapaksa (@RajapaksaNamal) May 2, 2022

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Also read:

The economic crisis

Years of economic mismanagement combined with fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and 2019 terrorist attacks that devastated its important tourism industry, culminated in a major economic crisis in 2022.

Additionally, the then-government slashed taxes in 2019, depleting the treasury just as the virus hit. Foreign exchange reserves plummeted, leaving Sri Lanka unable to pay for imports or defend its stressed currency.

The island nation later declared bankruptcy and suspended repayments on some $83 billion in domestic and foreign loans.

This followed a severe foreign exchange crisis that led to a severe shortage of essentials such as food, medicine, fuel and cooking gas, and extended power outages.

Sri Lankas economic upheaval led to a political crisis that forced then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign in 2022.

Gotabaya was forced into temporary exile after protesters stormed his official residence, following months of street protests over the island nations worst-ever economic crisis.

Later, former PM Ranil Wickremesinghe assumed power as acting president. He was then selected as president by the Parliament.

Under Wickremesinghe, Sri Lanka has been negotiating with international creditors to restructure the staggering debts and put the economy back on track. The IMF also approved a four-year bailout programme last March to help the island nation.

Last month, Wickremesinghe announced that his government has struck a debt restructuring deal with countries including India, France, Japan and China, marking a key step in the countrys economic recovery after defaulting on debt repayment in 2022, as per The Associated Press.

Under the agreements with its creditors, the cash-strapped country will be able to defer all bilateral loan installment payments until 2028.

Furthermore, the neighbouring country will be able to repay all the loans on concessional terms, with an extended period until 2043. The agreements would cover $10 billion of debt.

By 2022, Sri Lanka had to repay about $6 billion in foreign debt every year, amounting to about 9.2 per cent of gross domestic product.

The agreement would enable Sri Lanka to maintain debt payments at less than 4.5 per cent of GDP between 2027 and 2032.

Sri Lanka presidential election

The neighbourhood will hold the presidential poll on September 21, a race that will likely determine the future of economic reforms in the country.

It will be the first election in the South Asian island nation after it plunged into economic bankruptcy in 2022.

Pedestrians walk past a cut out erected commending Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Friday, July 26, 2023. AP

The date was announced by the independent elections commission on Friday, July 26, which said nominations will be accepted on August 15.

Wickremesinghe is expected to run, while his main rivals will be his one-time party colleague Sajith Premadasa, who founded the political alliance Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and Anura Dissanayake, who is the leader of the leftist political JVP party.

Wickremesinghe had contested two presidential elections and lost both. However, he had been prime minister six times since entering parliament in 1977.

The entry of a Rajapaksa into the fray formalised a widening split in the government ahead of the election.

According to AFP, a majority of legislators from the SLPP had wanted the party to back their new ally, President Wickremesinghe, after praising him for turning the economy around after the economic crisis.

Though the president is not from the SLPP, the SLPP backed him after Gotabaya fled his own country.

Despite its downfall, the SLPP enjoyed a majority in the 225-member parliament, controlled the government, and supported Wickremesinghe.

However, the parting of ways began when the election was called last month.

That revealed the splits in the once-dominant SLPP, a nationalist party appealing to the Sinhala Buddhist majority.

With inputs from agencies
India, the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia have all asked their citizens to be on their guard while in the UK. Rioters have vandalised buildings, looted shops, set hotels ablaze and attacked mosques. Birmingham in northern England and Plymouth in southern England were the latest to witness scenes of violence on Monday read more

A burnt car is removed after a night of violent anti-immigrant demonstrations, in Sunderland, UK, August 3, 2024. Reuters

Is it safe to travel to the United Kingdom?

A growing number of nations have warned their citizens to exercise caution while in the UK.

The advisories come after the UK has witnessed multiple anti-immigration riots following the murder of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed event in northern Englands Southport last week.

The accused in the case, Axel Rudakubana, 17, was born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents.

However, a number of posts on social media falsely claimed that Rudakubana was a refugee who arrived to the UK last year on a small boat.

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But which countries have warned their citizens against travelling to the UK? And what do we know about the violence?

Lets take a closer look:

Which countries have warned citizens?

India, the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia have all asked citizens to be on their guard while in the UK.

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, read the 6 August 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 advisory posted on the social media channels of the Indian mission also provided emergency contact information for anyone in need of urgent assistance.

Australia on Tuesday similarly warned its citizens to avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence, as per The Independent.

It asked its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism and monitor the media for information and updates.

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The UAE embassy, meanwhile, asked 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.

Nigerias Ministry of Foreign Affairs in an advisory noted an increased risk of violence and disorder occasioned by the recent riots in the UK.

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It added that the violence has assumed dangerous proportions.

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, it stated.

The High Commission of Malaysia in a statement said, 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 strongly urged citizens to register to receive timely information and assistance, as per The Independent.

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Swedens Embassy in London has strongly recommended that citizens avoid large crowds.

Since the beginning of August, riots have taken place in several British cities, motivated by xenophobia. It is strongly recommended to avoid large crowds, it said, as per Daily Mail.

Indonesia too warned its citizens to avoid large crowds and stay vigilant.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has also issued a statement condemning the violence which it said was fuelled by hatred.

What do we know about the violence?

Birmingham in the north and Plymouth in southern England witnessed the latest scenes of clashes between two sets of protesters overnight on Monday.

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As per The Times of India, several police officers in Plymouth were injured after being attacked with bricks and fireworks by miscreants

A man is in hospital after being attacked in a suspected hate crime in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

As per The Guardian, the man, in his 50s, is in serious condition.

According to the newspaper, assailants attacked the man and stamped on his head.

As per The Times of India, the rioters had been attempting to set ablaze a shop owned by a foreign national.

A young boy in Belfast was also assaulted, as per The Guardian.

An assault on a young boy in Belfast is being investigated as a hate crime by police.

Police said the boy sustained a minor facial injury after being attacked by up to 10 youths.

Meanwhile, police officers were attacked with bricks in Darlington, northern England.

As per The Independent, the weekend saw riots in a number of cities including Liverpool, Bristol, Manchester, Hull, Belfast, and Stoke.

Around 400 people have been arrested as far-right protesters have clashed with the police and members of anti-fascist groups on the streets.

UK Police officers in riot gear raise their batons and shields. Source: AFP

As per CNBC, the towns of Rotherham, Middlesbrough have also witnessed unrest along with Leeds and Hull.

London, thankfully, seems to have escaped unscathed thus far.

The Metropolitan Police has vowed to protect London from one of the worst spates of violent disorder in the last decade, as per The Guardian.

Rioters have taken up racist, anti-immigration and anti-Muslim slogans. Buildings have been vandalised and shops have been looted, according to CNBC.

Mosques have been attacked with bricks and petrol bombs.

One hotel in Yorkshires Rotherham, which some believed to have been home to asylum seekers, was set ablaze.

As per The Guardian, 51 police officers were hurt during riots outside the hotel.

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

Police said its officers suffered broken bones, a concussion, head wounds and bruising.

One Jordan Parlour has pleaded guilty to stirring up racial hatred during the riots.

Parlour put up messages on Facebook about attacking a hotel in Leeds housing asylum seekers.

The 28-year-old has been sent to custody ahead of his Friday sentencing, as per the newspaper.

The British Tourist Authority, told CNBC it is keeping an eye on things.

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 spokesperson said.

Serious acts of violence

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 UKs 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.

A protester holds up a sign police officers gather during the Enough is Enough protest in Whitehall, London on July 31 following the fatal stabbing of three children at a Taylor Swift-themed summer holiday dance and yoga class on Monday in Southport. PA via AP

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, said Prime Minister Keir Starmers 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. Ive 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.

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, Starmer wrote on X.

With inputs from agencies
The move by Kiran Gems, one of the worlds biggest manufacturers of natural diamonds, comes amid a dramatic drop in global demand for polished diamonds. The firm, which has a yearly turnover of Rs 17,000 crore, reported a whopping 15 per cent drop in rough diamond production in the second quarter of FY 24 compared to the first read more

The massive diamond firm employs over 50,000 polishers, with 40,000 working with natural diamonds and 10,000 with lab-grown diamonds. Image for Representation. Reuters

Kiran Gems, one of the worlds diamond manufacturers of polished diamonds, has announced an unprecedented 10-day vacation for its 50,000 employees. From August 17 to 27, the diamond-cutting hub of Surat in Gujarat will be quiet.

This unusual move is driven by a dramatic drop in global demand for polished diamonds, a situation exacerbated by the ongoing economic turbulence and geopolitical tensions.

Kiran Gems chairman, Vallabhbhai Lakhani, emphasised the necessity of this break, marking a first in the companys history. Weve declared this holiday to control diamond production, Lakhani shared with The Indian Express, underscoring the industrys ongoing struggles.

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So, what has led to this drastic step, and why is the Surat diamond industry in turmoil? Lets take a closer look.

A tough time

According to Vallabhbhai Lakhani, chairman of Kiran Gems, the diamond industry is experiencing a bad patch.

He explained, The price of polished diamonds has gone down globally, making it difficult for diamond manufacturers to sustain their businesses. If the supply is controlled, the demand will grow, benefiting the industry, he told The Indian Express.

Lakhani further mentioned that the company was forced to announce this leave due to the ongoing recession. Despite the tough times, he assured that all workers would receive their salaries during this period, although certain amounts would be withheld, PTI reported him as saying.

The massive diamond firm employs over 50,000 polishers, with 40,000 working with natural diamonds and 10,000 with lab-grown diamonds. As an authorised buyer of raw diamonds from South African-British corporation De Beers, Kiran Gems has a yearly turnover of Rs 17,000 crore.

According to Vallabhbhai Lakhani, chairman of Kiran Gems, the diamond industry is experiencing a bad patch as demand for polished diamonds has gone down drastically. Image for Representation. Pixabay

However, the company has been facing a tough time, as De Beers reported a 15 per cent drop in rough diamond production in the second quarter of the 2024 fiscal year compared to the first quarter.

Jagdish Khunt, president of the Surat Diamond Association, echoed Lakhanis views, noting that the recession has severely impacted the local diamond industry, which processes nearly 90 per cent of the worlds diamonds.

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This is the first time Kiran Gems has declared such a vacation for employees. Though no other firm has taken such a step, it is a reality that the recession has reduced the sale of polished diamonds, said Khunt.

He added, In 2022, our diamond industrys turnover was nearly Rs. 2,25,000 crore, which has now decreased to nearly Rs. 1,50,000 crore. So, we have been negative for the last two years.

Approximately 4,000 large and small diamond polishing and processing units in Surat provide direct employment to nearly 10 lakh people.

What is the reason?

Jagdish Khunt, president of the Surat Diamond Association, explained that since 95 per cent of Indias polished diamonds are exported, global factors invariably impact sales. He pointed out that the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict are major contributors to the slump in global demand.

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Russias Alrosa, a diamond-mining enterprise partially owned by the Russian state, supplies approximately 30 per cent of the worlds rough diamonds, with India sourcing about 60 per cent of its roughs for polishing from Alrosa.

Jagdish Khunt explained that since 95 per cent of Indias polished diamonds are exported and that the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict are major contributors to the slump in global demand. Reuters File Photo

After Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Biden administration imposed sanctions on Alrosa, disrupting the overall rough diamond supply. The United States, being the largest market for India-processed diamonds, saw several major American companies refusing to purchase goods of Russian origin, as reported by DW.

As a result, Surats diamond industries had to downsize operations, leading to thousands of job losses due to the rough diamond shortage, reported The Economic Times.

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Additionally, last year, the EU and G7 countries, which purchase 70 per cent of the worlds diamonds, initiated a ban on Russian-origin diamonds via third countries, which came into began its first phase in early March.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed this concern, stating, Our effort is to delay, soften it, and best of all, not let this happen at all. For us, this has become a priority issue, and we will try to find a solution in the coming days.

Khunt emphasised that these international sanctions and conflicts have forced Surats industry to adapt and struggle amidst these global challenges.

With input from agencies
Gone are the days when high heels and boots were chic. Gen Z has put an end to the age-old tradition of wearing heels on a night out. It is opting for practical, best-suited footwear  comfy sneakers read more

High heels, once a requisite for dancing and pub hopping, have come to symbolise the old age. Representational Image/Reuters

The previously considered ugly shoe has its share of the spotlight.

This is because the younger generations are now prioritising comfort over style.

Gone are the days when high heels and boots were chic footwear.

However, according to a viral video, Gen Z considers high heels outdated for going out.

Lets take a closer look.

Gen Zs new style statement

As per The New York Post, the video, filmed on Friday night at a local bar, showed a venue filled with young women dressed in jeans, a stylish top and comfy sneakers.

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The clip, according to Indy100, has been viewed 6.3 million times and has been met with a mixed reaction.

While a section of users yearned for the past, others embraced the idea of comfort.

Omg I would have hated this when I was in my 20s lol. The best part of going out was getting all dolled up! a user argued, while another one chipped in, When I was clubbing you couldnt enter wearing jeans or sneakers.

A third one added, Fashion has definitely changed, Im 35 and when we used to go out clubbing it was mini dresses and the tallest heels going even when it was snowing outside," the fourth one argued, Way better than heels and a dress."

One person commented, And all of them look cute, confident, and comfortable.

Firstpost couldnt independently verify the comments.

While jeans and tops have been wardrobe staples for many years, the choice of flat footwear is seen as a radical departure from the fashion norms of yesteryear.

Death of high heels

High heels, once a requisite for dancing and pub hopping, have come to symbolise the old age.

For the woman who grew up before the era of social media and smartphones, ending the party holding their heels was a kind of ritual.

However, Gen Z has put an end to the tradition and has chosen practical, best-suited footwear for themselves.

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This shift in footwear preferences is partly because of the global pandemic.

According to the most recent data, cited by NDTV, sales in flats and low-heels have increased while interest in high-heels has dropped.

However, several style experts feel otherwise.

Australian stylist to the stars, Donny Galella, believes this might not be the end of high heels.

Everything works in cycles. So without a doubt, heels will definitely make a comeback. Having styled thousands of women over the years, yes my clients love the comfort of sneakers, but many of them feel most confident when they wear heels, he told news.com.au.

He added, Heels can elongate your body, they make you look taller, longer, you maintain good posture, you feel powerful. So there will always be a major place for heels in most womens wardrobes.

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Similar trends across the world

Well, the trend of functionality over form is not just limited to the US.

In March this year, a trend called gross pajamas emerged in China, where Gen Z employees embraced comfortable and casual attire, such as pajamas, according to The Economic Times.

This was a statement against workplace norms of formal wear.

The trend also aligned with the lying flat movement, challenging stereotypes and emphasises that professionalism transcends attire.

Several posts with the hashtag gross outfits at work trended on Xiaohongshu, the Chinese equivalent of Instagram, featuring young workers embracing more casual style of clothing.

Comfort over style

According to research by Censuswide in the UK, 62 per cent of shoppers prioritised comfort when it came to shopping for new clothes.

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With 57 per cent and 31 per cent, price and quality of clothing came in second and third as priorities, according to UK-based The Industry.

However, the findings showed that priorities varied among age demographics.

About 31 per cent of participants in 16-24 age category, 26 per cent of those aged 25-34, and 18 per cent of those aged 35-44, prioritised how fashionable clothing is when they buy new clothes.

Comfort was the biggest priority for 73 per cent of those aged 55+.

In India, too, comfort clothing is growing.

Pooja Nagakoti, a student of the Army Institute of Fashion and Design, told the Deccan Herald, The sportswear meets streetwear is a big rage but a tricky one; one has to strike the right balance between the two. It came into limelight only recently and is certainly representing a bigger and perhaps a permanent sea of change in the fashion industry.

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With inputs from agencies
Amid political turmoil in Bangladesh, several Bangladeshi nationals on Wednesday attempted to sneak into Indian territory at the International Border along North Bengal, said a senior BSF officer, adding, their attempts were thwarted by the BSF personnel read more

Amid political turmoil in Bangladesh, several Bangladeshi nationals on Wednesday attempted to sneak into Indian territory at the International Border along North Bengal, said a senior BSF officer

However, their attempts were thwarted by the BSF personnel.

A large group of Bangladesh nationals gathered in patches at various locations at the International Border along North Bengal today evening. They were attempting to sneak into Indian territory, ANI quoted a senior BSF officer as saying.

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The officer added that the BSF dispersed them with the help of Border Guard Bangladesh and the Civil Administration.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma also raised his concerns over the issue, saying if the turmoil continues then the people of Bangladesh will come to India.

The incident of Bangladesh is a matter of concern for us for two reasons. Firstly, if this turmoil continues, then the people of Bangladesh will come to India. We need to make our borders safe, added Sarma.

Secondly, he said, the concern also remains that Bangladesh does not become a valley of North East extremists.

All extremists of the North East were removed from Bangladesh during the rule of Shiekh Haseena. It will remain our concern that Bangladesh does not become a valley of North East extremists We hope that the Indian government will be in talks with the new government and that the concerns of the North East will be considered PM Modi will make sure that the North East does not become a safe haven for terrorists, said the Assam CM.

The recent violence and unrest over job quotas in Bangladesh led Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to India on Monday. In response, security has been heightened in states bordering Bangladesh, including West Bengal and Tripura.

The BSF has reinforced security along the 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border, with Acting Director General Daljit Singh Chawdhary visiting the Petrapole border in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district.

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West Bengal, which shares a 2,217 km border with Bangladesh, along with Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Assam (262 km), and Mizoram (318 km), has seen increased security measures.

On Tuesday, the BSF held meetings with state officials and local residents to enhance security. Villagers have been advised to avoid traveling in border areas at night.

With inputs from agencies
The Delhi High Court has asked controversial former probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar to give her address to the UPSC and the order should be supplied to her both by physical mode and electronically read more

In order to avail of the Other Backward Classes (OBC) non-creamy layer quota in the UPSC, Puja Khedkar had reportedly claimed that her parents were separated and she was living with her mother. Source: dr_pujamdk_ias/Instagram

Within the next two days, the UPSC will serve the candidature cancelling order to controversial former probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar through all modes, the commission told the Delhi High Court on Wednesday.

The statement was made by senior advocate Naresh Kaushik appearing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) before Justice Jyoti Singh of the Delhi HC.

The court was hearing the plea filed by Khedkar who challenged the cancellation of her candidature by the UPSC. Her advocate Indira Jaisingh said the unusual aspect of the case is that the UPSC order cancelling Khedkars candidature has not been provided to her till date.

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She further claimed that Khedkar got to know about the cancellation of her candidature through media and the press release.

All I have is the press release. They have to supply me the order so that I can approach the appropriate tribunal, Jaising said.

Khedkar can challenge cancellation in any forum

The high court then granted liberty to Khedkar to approach any appropriate forum to challenge the cancellation of her candidature by the UPSC.

The high court then said, The order is to be communicated at her last known address. The petitioner has been disposed with liberty to approach the appropriate forum, the court said.

On July 31, the UPSC through a press statement stated that Khedkars provisional candidature for the civil services exam-2022 (CSE-2022) has been cancelled and she has also been debarred permanently from all the future Examinations/Selections of the UPSC."

The decision was taken by the commission after it was found guilty of acting in contravention of the provisions of the CSE-2022 Rules.

The court also said that Khedkar will give her address to the UPSC and the order should be supplied to her both by physical mode and electronically.

Advocate Kaushik then agreed to send the order to Khedkar through all modes, including at her last known address that she has been asked to provide and also on her email ID.

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Before disposing of the plea, the Delhi High Court asked Khedkar to approach the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) for other reliefs like challenge to the cancellation order.

Recently, Patiala House Court in Delhi dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Khedkar, and said the allegations against her are grave and serious which requires thorough investigation.

Khedkar, a 2023-batch IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre, is accused of misusing her powers as a civil servant after she allegedly demanded a separate office, a car and a house for herself before joining as Assistant Collector in Pune. She was transferred from Pune to Washim over her inappropriate demands and indiscipline.

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There have also been allegations that Khedkar availed Other Backward Class (OBC) benefits as well as disability concessions to secure her position in the IAS.

A one-member committee has been formed by the Central government to probe Khedkars conduct and selection process.

With inputs from agencies

Also Read: UPSC cancels Puja Khedkars candidature, debars her from all future exams, selections

Also Read: Double whammy for Puja Khedkar: After UPSCs action, anticipatory bail plea gets rejected
A month before she was forced to resign, things were not going well between China and Bangladeshs democratically elected prime minister, Sheikh Hasina. It is reported that Hasina received the cold shoulder in China and cut short her visit. This implies that China may have had concrete intelligence of an upcoming coup against her or was directly involved in organising it. Probably both.

It isnt just a case of cui prodest? I write this as it is reported that Hasina has fled Dhaka for a safer place, possibly India, and that a mob has broken security to enter her house, as had happened during the revolution in Sri Lanka.

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The history of united Bengal is peppered with army chiefs supporting foreign powers against their sovereigns. Even in this case, the army has announced an interim government. Is Bangladesh army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, repeating history for China, much as Mir Jafar did at the Battle of Plassey against his sovereign Siraj-ud-Daulah, handing over Bengal to East India Companys Robert Clive? While China functions on synchronicity, the Indian subcontinent, much like a believer in karma, functions on cyclicity.

However, my thesis of Chinas direct intervention in Bangladesh, potentially with the collaboration of Pakistans secret service, ISI, and other Muslim Brotherhood elements, isnt just based on historical conjuncture.

The basis for my allegation is Chinas escalation in the Muslim world. Initially, Chinas engagement had been primarily with Pakistan, with the objective of countering India. Pakistan allowed China access to the Indian Ocean, among other things, and also kept India engaged and landlocked in the north. Then there was diplomatic engagement in the Middle East to ensure energy security with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). There has also been a strong relationship with the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC), which invites China as a special guest while keeping India, with the worlds third-largest Muslim population, out.

Chinese engagement with Islamic extremism has increased lately. Be it coordinating with Pakistan-sponsored terrorists in Kashmir during its troop movements and skirmishes with India or recognising the Taliban in order to suppress the ISIS-K and armed East Turkistan rebels, China has moved from engaging state actors to patronising extremist non-state terrorist groups.

This escalation can also be seen in the Middle East. First, China attempted to play a peacemaker between Iran and Saudi Arabia, resulting in a historic agreement. Then, Chinese support escalated to openly supporting Hamas, gathering 14 Palestinian groups in Beijing, many of which are officially terrorist groups, to try and give them legitimacy without recognising the terrorist attack of October 7, Israels security concerns, or making them reciprocally accept Israels right to exist. Essentially, it was a Chinese coup to get Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad into the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO), which controls the Palestinian National Authority.

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There have been rumours in intelligence circles about Chinese assistance to Hamas, which led to the October 7 attacks; however, China has been careful to keep its engagement at arms length to avoid complications with the west. This explains Chinas patronage of Hamas and its attempt to garner legitimacy for its client.

Coming back to Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina was not popular with the Islamists. She is the daughter of the founding father of Bangladesh, Mujib ur Rahman, who spent over 12 years of his political life in prison during British and Pakistani rule. She recently banned the pro-Pakistan Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh (Jamaat) and its student wing, Chhatrashibir, for having hijacked the student protests and started a campaign of political violence. The Jamaat is pro-Pakistani, continues to have strong links with other Muslim Brotherhood organisations to which Hamas also subscribes, has close links, and its men have infiltrated the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and probably the armed forces as well.

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Hasina has spent years of her exile in Delhi, where she seems to be headed in these hours. She is seen by China as pro-India, despite having done her best to balance her relationship between India and China. It is obvious that Beijing does not trust her and would rather have a puppet government in Dhaka, which not only allows it access to the Indian Ocean but also complicates Indias border problems. With Myanmar at constant civil war and now Bangladesh heading into a political flux, Indias new trade route attempts in the East with the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) and West with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) are put on ice due to essentially Muslim Brotherhood offshoots, Jamaat to the East and Hamas to the West.

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Having a government hostile to Delhi in Dhaka compounds Indias security concerns with unchecked Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants, increasing violence in the North-East and a weaker position in the Bay of Bengal. What started as Chinas appeasement of Muslim organisations world-wide to deflect its Uyghur genocide and ethnic replacement of its Muslim majority Uyghur population has now become a strong alliance with Islamic extremist non-state actors to disrupt democracies and accelerate geopolitical change. China must be careful, as the Ikhwan al-Muslimeen (Muslim Brotherhood) is no ones friend; the invention may turn against the inventor.

The author is a writer, who has worked closely and continues to advise various governments in Europe, Middle East and Africa. He is the founder of the Dialogue on Democracy. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
The pretext of removing a corrupt Sheikh Hasina government through students protests will run its course, and the ultimate players will be the Army and Jamaat-BNP read more

With a 45-minute ultimatum from the Bangladeshi Army, Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on Monday (August 5), and till the time of writing this article, she is reportedly stationed in India, somewhere near the Hindon Airbase. She resigned from the post of Prime Minister and left her country on a Bangladeshi aircraft. Following her departure, Bangladesh Army Chief, Waker-uz-Zaman, gave a statement to the press:

We will step up an interim government in Bangladesh. We will discuss it with the President of Bangladesh. There will be fair trial of all injustice and oppression. Please have faith in the army. The Army wont disappoint the people of Bangladesh. Cooperate with us. Please stop all violence and cooperate with the Army for a better future. InshaAllah, let us all work together for a better future. All the leaders of major political parties had a discussion with us.

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Clearly, the collapse of her government is shocking and unfortunate. The fear of radical elements right now fanning out in Bangladesh is so very grievous that, speaking to BBC, Newshour, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy said that Hasina will not make a political comeback. He further stated, 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.

The ongoing political fiasco, which has been given the nomenclature of a students movement started in July 2024, when the students started demanding the abolition of quotas in government jobs. Resultantly, on July 21, 2024, a Supreme Court ruling (which was initially scheduled for August 7) curtailed the quota from 30 per cent to five per cent, for families of freedom fighters, with 93 per cent of positions now to be filled on merit.

The remaining two per cent was to be allocated to ethnic minorities, transgender individuals, and people with disabilities. The court had also urged student protesters to return to their classes. However, the protesters still continued with the demand for Hasinas resignation, clearly indicating the ultimate goal of the entire violence, in which more than 300 people have been killed.

Sadly, the dominance of the Razakar narrative during the entire violent agitation, was indeed an ominous precursor, which led to the culmination of August 5 incidents in Bangladesh, when not only the then-incumbent Prime Minister resigned and left the country, but also statues of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Father of the NationBangabandhu, were broken and destroyed in many parts of Bangladesh, especially in the capital city of Dhaka.

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The question asked by Hasina to the people of her country on July 14 [Why there is so much of resentment against Mukti Juddho and Mukti Jodhha? Are the children and grandchildren of freedom fighters not talented? Are only the children and grandchildren of Razakars talented? What is the fault of Mukti Jodhha? They selflessly fought for the freedom of this country Otherwise those who are protesting today would be subjected to kicks of Pakistanis.], has been answered with violence, vandalism, assault and looting of the Prime Ministers residence, Parliament, and the burning of the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre. Most unfortunately, the official residence of Mujibur Rahman at 32 Dhanmondi in Dhaka, where he and his family members were brutally murdered, was set on fire by the so-called protestors.

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These destructions are systematic demolitions of Bangladeshs cultural identity, for which the common people sought independence from Pakistan.

Meanwhile, the social media pictures of shadheen (free), with a red backdrop, and the AI-generated picture of people hoisting Bangladeshs flag signify a complete denial of the Liberation War and the horror, humiliation, and torture common people in East Pakistan had to endure since 1947, until they got independence in 1971.

The major driving force behind the entire turmoil and keeping the false facade of students unrest is the radical outfit of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh and its students wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS). Therefore, on August 1, 2024, the erstwhile Bangladesh government banned the Jamaat-ICS. The ban of JeI-ICS, according to the Second Schedule of the Act, came through an executive order under Section 18(1) of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009. Jamaat was previously banned three times: in 1959, 1964, and 1972. The notification reads:

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For the purposes of this Act, the government, on reasonable grounds that a person or an entity is involved in terrorist activities, may, by order, enlist the person in the schedule or proscribe the entity and enlist it in the scheduleThe government possesses enough evidence that Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and its front organisation Islami Chhatra Shibir, were involved in recent killings, destructive and terrorist activities directly and through incitement.

The Jamaat has a long history of collaborating with the Pakistani army (Khan Shena) and orchestrating the killing of Bengali intellectuals and freedom fighters during the Liberation War. Consequently, it has always been anti-Awami League. And most importantly, Hasina, in 2008, included the issue of the war crimes tribunal in her manifesto; therefore, so far, 50 members of Jamaat have been indicted.

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Most importantly, under the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), prominent leaders of Jamaat were convicted for war crimes and hanged, including JeI politician Abdul Quader Mollah, Matiur Rahman Nizami, and secretary general Ali Ahsan Mujaheed. Among other prominent leaders, Ghulam Azam was sentenced to 90 years in prison, while Delawar Hossain Sayedees death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. Both died while serving jail terms.

The August 1 ban on Jamaat was a direct attack on the hornets nest, which Hasinas government could not anticipate or calculate. And subsequently, on August 4, countrywide protests intensified, and in that single day, around 94 people were killed, including 14 police officers. The protests witnessed the participation of unidentified people and activists of right-wing Islami Shashontantra Andolon, who erected barricades on multiple major highways and within the capital city. The violent protestors on the street were calling for Hasina to step down. Later, on August 5, thousands of protesters reportedly flooded into the Prime Ministers official residence in Dhaka as part of their Long March to Dhaka.

The visible arson, looting, and bloodbath in the streets of Bangladesh have not happened organically. Over a period of time, Jamaat has re-invented itself and percolated deep into the society and culture of Bangladesh. As reported in June 2023, the number of the Jamaats permanent members, or Rukon, in 2008 was 23,863. That figure now stands at 73,046, a threefold rise. The Islamist party has also seen a threefold rise in the number of its activists, which has leapt to 639,000, from 221,000, over the same period. Additionally, there has been a nearly fivefold rise in the partys women Rukon, and a fourfold rise in women activists.

Similarly, the number of associate members has now grown to 22.9 million, up from 10.3 million in 2008. Jamaat has also sought to extend Dawah, i.e., inviting people to take the religious path. It holds regular meetings, dispersing its ideology and conducting its organisational activities through various types of religious gatherings, such as Waz Mahfils (assemblies for preaching), across the country. Officially, it works to implement the Islamic code of life, prescribed by Allah and shown by Prophet Muhammad, with a view to turning Bangladesh into an Islamic welfare state.

The deep rot Bangladesh is suffering at the moment is very much visible to the entire world in the form of the looting of personal belongings of the erstwhile Prime Minister and the shameless display of such items in social media posts. The jubilant people are thrilled to openly steal furniture, ceiling fans, utensils, lamps, washroom accessories, and so on and so forth from government offices and buildings.

Also, the Hindu minority is once again in line of fire. There are multiple reports of arson, killing, robbing, and assault of Hindus, their properties, and temples all over Bangladesh. Reportedly, an ISKCON temple in Khulna District of Meherpur was vandalised and set on fire; in Noakhali district, Hindu houses were attacked by violent mobs; in Rangpur district, Haradhan Roy of the Parshuram Thana Awami League and Councillor Kajal Roy were killed.

The re-emergence of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) with the blessings of Jamaat is also an important point in the current context. Hours after Hasina resigned and fled, President Mohammed Shahabuddin ordered the release of jailed opposition leader Khaleda Zia. The decision was made at a meeting of the Army Chief, BNP, and Jamaat leaders. The cadres of BNP did play an important role in violence, as in July, 2024, exiled Acting Chairman of BNP and Khaleda Zias eldest son, Tarique Rahman on X, in solidarity with the protestors, called upon all leaders, activists, and common people of the pro-democracy political parties, including the BNP, to stand by students, provide them with all support, and carry this movement forward.

As expected, the Army will follow its standard course of action by setting up the interim government and then declaring the country unfit for a democratic election and carrying on with either the direct imposition of martial law or by creating a cabinet, compliant to the dictates of the Army. This is not the first time that the army has intervened into the political forefront of Bangladesh. In 1975, just four years after the Liberation of Bangladesh, a significant coup took place, resulting in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with most of his family members. This coup was orchestrated by junior army officers, leading to Major General Ziaur Rahman taking power and declaring himself president. After the assassination of Ziaur Rehman in 1981, Lieutenant General Hussain Muhammad Ershad led another coup in 1821, seizing power in a bloodless takeover. Ershad declared martial law, suspended the constitution, and consolidated his control over both military and civilian structures. His regime ended in 1990 following a popular uprising demanding the restoration of democracy.

Eventually, the pretext of removing a corrupt Hasina government through students protests will run its course, and the ultimate players will be the Army and Jamaat-BNP. Either they will work in tandem or there will be a tussle to achieve the position of power. Right now, the entire world is witnessing the fact that workable democracy is a far-fetched dream for Bangladesh in the coming days.

The writer is Research Fellow, Institute for Conflict Management, New Delhi. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Bangladesh is unfortunately fated to go through turbulent times, but the implications of its descent to anarchy can have serious implications for India read more

Indias relationship with its neighbours have always been that of an affluent elder sibling whom the others love to hate. Among them Pakistan is probably the most straightforward as it is mostly hostile with little shade of grey. However, it is most complex in the case of Bangladesh whose birth India had midwifed but the kid sister refuses to acknowledge. That Bangladesh is encircled on three sides by India with a highly nebulous and porous border adds an additional layer. Its religious composition and obvious affinity to the Islamic world is a further dimension. Shared water resources demand a high level of cooperation.

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Thus, in short, unlike other countries India cannot afford to look the other way from its internal developments. We are joined at the hips by an umbilical cord as it were. Thus successive governments have been carefully watching local developments in Bangladesh since its creation.

However, a few questions arise after the August 5 denouement. Should India have been so heavily invested in Sheikh Hasina even when it was apparent that she was losing international support and ground was slipping from beneath her feet at home? Going with Sheikh Khaleda Zias Bangladesh National Party (BNP) was not an option given her strong anti-India position and leanings towards radical Islamic elements. But could India not have cultivated other moderate politicians or silently promote potential successors to Sheikh Hasina within Awami League?

It is probably easier to find an answer to the first question. The very weaknesses and challenges that Sheikh Hasina faced made her dependent on India. She knew that no other country would stand by her the way India has over the years irrespective of which regime it was in Delhi. For India, there could not be a better bet than Hasina against its detractors notwithstanding her occasional flirtation with China for pure commercial expediency. More importantly, if India had to tackle cross border infiltration of Jihadi assets only Hasina would help because she was afflicted by the same malaise. On this score India reciprocated by handing over to Sheikh Hasina many who were on the look out notice in Bangladesh including the killer of her father.

With so much at stake India  especially the Modi government  which has been committed more than any government before it to tackling the menace of infiltration  could not afford to antagonise Sheikh Hasina by cultivating alternate leadership in her home. What it could have done, perhaps, is work harder to convince Hasina to take a less rigid line to bring in the moderate elements from the opposition into her fold rather than go for a steam-roller approach. Here, perhaps, there was an uncanny meeting of minds between the Modi-Shah and Hasina and over-confidence in a hardline strategy.

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Everyone would remember the not so veiled threats from the United States establishment to hand over the administration to an interim government for overseeing the elections or face consequences. She ignored the warnings and pressed on with the elections that her opposition boycotted to return with a walkover victory. One would assume she had the tacit support of India in her decision. Could India have prevailed on her to follow the US suggestion and would that have taken the heat off her will remain a matter of conjecture.

It is also common knowledge that the United States was not entirely averse to the idea of a regime change in India though it could not have openly called for one. The counter-factual question that is bound to arise, therefore, is whether the current events have escalated so dramatically had Narendra Modi returned with a larger majority even if not his dream number of 400 paar?

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Here it is not difficult to resist the temptation of a flashback of August 15, 1975 when Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was brutally assassinated on a day when Indira Gandhi was unfurling the Indian Tricolour at the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Indian Independence Day. Less than two months ago she had declared an Emergency in the country fearing a popular uprising and put opposition leaders behind bars and muzzled the media. There was no love lost between her and the United States  who were unhappy with her dismembering its vassal state Pakistan in 1971 creating Bangladesh and installing Sheikh Mujib as the prime minister.

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At that time Indira was firmly ensconced with the Soviet Union, which had used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council during the India Pakistan War in 1971. Is it possible that Indira was apprehending a similar destabilisation of the country and political overthrow? Finally she did have to relinquish power albeit through elections  which some believe she may have been nudged to call by a friend or foe. Though she returned to power after a hiatus it was not the same Mrs Gandhi one knew post 1971 and prior to 1975. It is ironic that some of her own have been seen to be supping with players of the same club in recent times.

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Bangladesh like many nations of its ilk is unfortunately fated to go through turbulent times but the implications of its descent to anarchy would have serious implications for India. Fortunately, political parties across the aisle realise the risks and unequivocally pledged their support to the government, who on its part have taken the opposition into confidence. But once the current crisis blows over some may not be beyond fishing Hilsa in the turbulent waters of the Padma river. Their visceral hatred for Narendra Modi has always been in public and they have found it difficult, or even necessary, to conceal their voyeuristic glee fantasising the prospects of a similar uprising in India and with a similar endgame.

This is going to be a challenge that the Narendra Modi government would have to navigate with diplomatic deftness. India has always been a playground of big powers. Now the world is no longer bipolar but it is not multipolar or a Quad as yet. At best it is tri-polar. Seen to be leaning towards Russia could invite a replay of the seventies and try to push him and by extension India to a corner.

So testing times ahead not just for Bangladesh but for India as well. The Modi government will have to play its cards carefully eschewing the ambitions of being regarded as a Vishwaguru for a while.

The author is a public affairs commentator. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Quickly denounced as far-Left by challenger Donald Trump and his running mate JD Vance, Walz is actually seen by many as a centre-of-the road Democratic when he needs to be read more

Why has Kamala Harris, the Democratic partys presumptive presidential nominee, picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate? The answer is that after a careful calibration of the advantages and disadvantages of the shortlisted three  Walz, Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, and Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona  Harris and her Democratic party strategists-advisors thought that the first was the best.

Walz has many things going for him. For one, besides being a two-term Governor of an important mid-western state, Walz has served on the United States House of Representatives for twelve years. This makes him not only a very experienced and senior politician, but also an insider to the House. Thus, very comfortable with House Democrats. We might remember that Harris herself has been a Senator. House Representatives bring a different kind of politics of populism and dealmaking with them.

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Quickly denounced as far-Left by challenger Donald Trump and his running mate J D Vance, Walz is actually seen by many as a centre-of-the road Democratic when he needs to be. A good contrast to Harris who is not only a California Progressive Democrat through and through, but also seen as pretty much to the Left of the political spectrum.

Walz balances the ticket by being a white male, who can be expected to hit back hard and be protective, if not chivalrous  which would be politically very incorrect an expression  in defending Harris, a dignified lady (once again, not damsel in distress) under attack, from the allegedly vicious, disrespectful, and misogynistic Trump. Walz is expected to counter-balance Vances appeal among blue collar Rust Belt working class Americans. To put it bluntly, while Harris captures Black, Hispanic, and female voters, Walz is expected to mop up the White working class, and undecided ones.

But, ultimately, what the Harris campaign would be counting on is Walzs ability to secure support in crucial swing states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Michigan. If Pennsylvania is so crucial, why not go with Governor Josh Shapiro? For one, he is Jewish and has openly supported Israel in the past. He risks alienating Harriss support among Muslim and pro-Palestinian voters, some of whom have been very active across the country in campus and other protests. The Democratic party must tread very carefully on that razors edge.

What Walz also brings to the ticket is that he is a veteran  like Vance. No one can accuse a Vet of being unpatriotic, something with Harris, with her dubious record as the immigration Czar might have been susceptible to. In addition, he is a former teacher. His no-nonsense Midwestern talking style will also be a nice divergence from Harris prevaricatious, roundabout manner.

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As a key Biden supporter, Democratic Representative from South Carolina, Jim Clyburn, was quoted as saying, We do one-minute speeches in the House. So we know how to get to the point right away. If you noticed, Walz is very good at getting to the point right away. Not to mention, Walzs much more sober demeanor compared to the by-now notorious Harris laugh, which some have uncharitably called Kamalas cackle. It was also Walz who, speaking on behalf of solid, middle America, dubbed both Trump and Vance as weird, an epithet that seems to have stuck like a burr, so hard has it been to shake off.

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On the flip side, as Vivek Ramaswamy observed in a TV interview, the Republicans can be relieved. Why? Because Walzs record on crucial issues like immigration and law-and-order is vulnerable. He is the one who has been held responsible for Minnesota burning, the riots that erupted in 2020 in the wake of George Floyds death. Called out for being a dangerously liberal extremist, Walz shares a comfortable ideological comradery with Harris precisely because he is supposedly as progressive as she is. This means that when it comes to issues and facts, the Trump-Vance team is on a solid wicket.

Which brings us to the main issue on the other side. Trump is, no doubt, disappointed that he now has to take on Harris, who is not only a woman of colour, but somewhat of an unknown. When compared to stumbling Joe Biden, who seemed like an easy target. Trump has already made the mistake of attacking Harris on race and identity issues, which has not gone down well with the American public, especially women.

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Will Trump be able to change his campaign style mid-course? Will he opt for a softer, more gentlemanly approach, while sticking to, even sharpening, his ideological attacks on Harris? Will he be able to stop sidestepping the non-essential issues and stop calling Harris dumb as a rock, for instance? As if that matters? Remember George W. Bush and all his gaffes? Or even Ronald Regan, who wasnt all that sharp, but became a very successful two-time President? Voters in the US dont care for very high IQs  what they want is strong leadership which can keep American number one. All team Trump has to do is to ask if Harris can deliver on that.

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In other words, if Trump can stick to his core MAGA agenda, he might go on to win this one. Else, the battle is uphill, given how profound and powerful the Democratic machine is, with its massive funding and patronage networks across influential states/sections of voters, and crazy-smart narrative building. For now, though, its game on in the US presidential race.

The writer is an author and columnist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Chinese authorities heavily regulate and govern how deepfakes are used in the country. Failure to register these algorithms with the CAC could result in their removal from domestic app stores read more

China is emerging as a global leader in AI regulation, requiring developers to register related technologies with the government. The country has mandated that generative AI (GenAI) models must be registered with the CAC before being made publicly available. Image Credit: Reuters

China has taken a significant step in regulating and advancing its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, particularly in deepfake technologies. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has approved 487 new AI algorithms, a move that reflects the countrys commitment to controlling and developing AI innovations.

These approved algorithms cover a range of applications from domestic tech giants like Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent, as well as foreign firms including Hewlett-Packard (HP).

The latest approval list from the CAC is the second-largest since the deepfake regulation came into effect in January 2023. The newly approved algorithms include Baidus portrait image diffusion generator, which is integrated with its cloud gallery app Yike, and Tencents search algorithm used in WeChat. Alibaba has registered an algorithm for document creation in its enterprise collaboration tool DingTalk and a multimodal algorithm developed by its research arm, Damo Academy, for generating images and videos for corporate clients.

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These efforts are part of the compliance with the Administrative Provisions on Deep Synthesis for Internet Information Services.

Chinese authorities heavily regulate and govern how deepfakes are used in the country. Failure to register these algorithms with the CAC could result in their removal from domestic app stores.

The CAC has been regularly publishing white lists of approved algorithms, with the latest list marking the seventh since the regulation was introduced. The largest list to date was published in June, featuring 492 algorithms.

Previous lists have included 394 algorithms in April and 266 in February. The first list in June 2023 had only 41 algorithms, indicating a rapid increase in approvals as the regulatory process has become more streamlined.

Cai Peng, a partner at Beijing-based Zhong Lun Law Firm, noted that the growing size of the lists indicates a clearer workflow between the regulator and applicants. The approximately two-month process involves filing and refining application documents based on the CACs requirements, suggesting that the regulator has established a more efficient system for handling applications.

The latest batch of approved algorithms includes several notable tools. Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok developed by ByteDance, registered a healthcare knowledge algorithm. Microsofts AI spin-off Xiaoice had a music generator approved, and NetEases digital version of the popular party game Werewolf featured a character dialogue generator.

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Several foreign brands also made the list. HPs computer assistant algorithm was approved, alongside a text generator by Yum China, a spin-off of American fast-food giant Yum! Brands, used for dine-in and delivery services at KFC and Pizza Hut.

China is emerging as a global leader in AI regulation, requiring developers to register related technologies with the government. The country has mandated that generative AI (GenAI) models must be registered with the CAC before being made publicly available, a regulation that took effect in August 2023. To date, the CAC has released two lists, approving a total of 188 GenAI models.

Chinas proactive stance in regulating AI technologies aims to ensure that innovations are developed and used responsibly, balancing advancement with control. The rapid approval of new algorithms demonstrates the countrys commitment to fostering a robust and secure AI ecosystem, setting a precedent for global AI governance.
US restrictions on China, have accelerated efforts within the country to develop and use domestic chip-making tools. There is an informal industry standard that mandates at least 70 per cent of production tools in Chinese semiconductor fabs be locally made read more

China has made significant strides towards self-sufficiency in AI chips amidst ongoing US export restrictions. These restrictions have accelerated efforts within the country to develop and use domestic chip-making tools. However, challenges remain, particularly in lithography, a critical technology for producing advanced chips.

Leading Chinese tool makers, such as Naura Technology and Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment (AMEC), are spearheading the move towards greater self-reliance in the semiconductor industry, as per a report by the South China Morning Post

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Informal industries challenge US restrictions

There is an informal industry standard that mandates at least 70 per cent of production tools in Chinese semiconductor fabs be locally made. This push for local tools has been driven by Washingtons restrictions on advanced chip-making technologies, prompting Chinese chip makers to focus on increasing the production capacity of legacy chips used in cars and home appliances.

Paul Triolo, a senior vice-president at Albright Stonebridge Group, noted the significant progress in Chinas semiconductor tool sector since the October 2022 US export control measures. This advancement is attributed to better vertical integration among tool makers and increased collaboration across the industry supply chain.

Gerald Yin Zhiyao, CEO of AMEC, has expressed optimism about China nearing a basic level of self-sufficiency in chip-making tools, a milestone that seemed distant just a few years ago.

The bottleneck - lithography a challenge

Despite these advances, lithography remains a critical bottleneck for China. Lithography systems are essential for printing intricate circuit patterns on semiconductor wafers, and the most advanced systems are subject to strict export controls.

ASML, a Dutch company, is the only supplier of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems required for cutting-edge chips. ASML also supplies deep ultraviolet (DUV) systems, which are less advanced but still crucial.

In 2023, only 1.2 per cent of the lithography systems used in Chinese foundries were domestically sourced.

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This highlights Chinas dependency on ASML, especially for DUV lithography gear, which is not covered by US sanctions. Chinese lithography leader SMEE is still lagging behind ASML in producing reliable lithography tools for 28-nanometer and below processes at scale.

Experts like Rene Raaijmakers, a Dutch technology writer, believe that China has the potential to develop many components for DUV and EUV systems, potentially at a faster pace than ASML due to the availability of advanced technology.

Other hurdles

Lithography is not the only area where China faces challenges. The local supply ratios for ion implantation and inspection and metrology systems are also low, at 1.4 per cent and 2.4 per cent, respectively.

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In 2023, Chinas imports of ion implantation systems increased by 20 per cent to $1.3 billion. The countrys semiconductor fabs heavily rely on foreign companies like KLA, Applied Materials, and Hitachi for metrology systems, with KLA holding around 50 per cent of the global market share in this sector.

Despite these challenges, China is determined to overcome these technological hurdles. The countrys efforts in advancing its semiconductor industry are seen as a response to the US export restrictions, driving innovation and collaboration within the domestic market.

The journey towards self-sufficiency in chip-making tools is ongoing, with significant progress made but crucial gaps yet to be filled.
The Qianfan megaconstellation project, also known as the G60 initiative, was launched in 2023 with the objective of providing high-quality communication services across China. The project aims to deploy a network of over 15,000 low earth orbit multimedia satellites read more

China has successfully launched the first batch of 18 Qianfan satellites into orbit, marking a significant step towards establishing its own satellite internet network, similar to SpaceXs Starlink.

This achievement was reported by China Central Television (CCTV) and is seen as a milestone in the countrys efforts to enhance its global satellite internet capabilities.

The Qianfan Megaconstellation Project

The Qianfan megaconstellation project, also known as the G60 initiative, was launched in 2023 with the objective of providing high-quality communication services across China. The project aims to deploy a network of over 15,000 low earth orbit (LEO) wide-screen multimedia satellites.

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This ambitious plan is designed to deliver stable, high-speed internet services, particularly to remote areas with inadequate communication infrastructure, thereby bridging the digital divide.

Kang Guohua, a senior member of the Chinese Society of Astronautics and a professor of Aerospace Engineering at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, emphasized the importance of this project. He noted that the Qianfan constellation would significantly improve communication services in regions lacking proper infrastructure, effectively addressing the digital gap.

Launch Details and Future Plans

The 18 satellites were launched aboard a Long March-6 carrier rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in Shanxi province. This launch represents the first batch in the Thousand Sails Constellation plan, which is a part of the larger Qianfan project.

This year, the project aims to complete the launch of 108 satellites, with a target of achieving regional network coverage by the end of 2025 using 648 satellites. By 2027, the constellation aims to provide global network coverage, and by 2030, it plans to have all 15,000 satellites operational.

These satellites will offer integrated services such as direct mobile connections, enhancing the global reach and utility of the network.

Strategic importance

The successful launch of these satellites positions China as a significant player in the global satellite internet industry. Kang Guohua compared the Qianfan project to SpaceXs Starlink, highlighting that the achievements of Starlink as a disruptor in the internet communication industry have been widely recognized.

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With the launch and networking of the Qianfan constellation, China is making substantial strides in this field, potentially altering the competitive landscape of global satellite internet services.

The launch of the Qianfan satellites also demonstrates Chinas growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to enhancing its technological infrastructure. This development is part of Chinas broader strategy to achieve technological self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on foreign technology, particularly in critical areas like satellite communication and internet services.

The deployment of LEO satellites, which typically operate at altitudes of 300km to 2,000km from the Earths surface, offers several advantages. These satellites are cheaper to deploy and provide more efficient transmission than those in higher orbits. Control over LEO satellites also carries major military implications, adding a strategic dimension to Chinas ambitious project.

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Chinas launch of the Qianfan satellites marks a crucial development in its efforts to build a robust satellite internet network. As the project progresses, it is expected to provide widespread, high-speed internet access, particularly in underserved areas, contributing to the countrys technological advancement and digital inclusivity.

With plans to expand the constellation to 15,000 satellites by 2030, China is positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the satellite internet domain, challenging established players like SpaceXs Starlink. It certainly will be a situation that its neighbours, particularly India, will be watching very closely
Most of the people terminated are from Dells sales and go-to-market teams. The company aims to become leaner and more growth-focused through this process read more

However, Dell has previously reduced its workforce by 13,000 jobs in two rounds last year, bringing its total headcount down from 133,000 to about 120,000. Image Credit: AFP

Dell Technologies is undergoing significant changes, cutting some sales positions while creating others, as part of its effort to reorganise for the AI era.

The company aims to become leaner and more growth-focused through this process. On Monday, Dell stated that it is reorganising its go-to-market teams and prioritising investments to enhance innovation, value, and service for its customers and partners.

Impact of layoffs and financial performance

The company did not disclose the exact number of employees affected by the latest layoffs. However, Dell has previously reduced its workforce by 13,000 jobs in two rounds last year, bringing its total headcount down from 133,000 to about 120,000.

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The Round Rock, Texas-based tech giant reported annual sales of $88.4 billion for the 2024 fiscal year, a 14 per cent decline from the previous year and $13.5 billion less than its record $101.9 billion in 2022.

Dells second round of layoffs last year coincided with the introduction of the Partner First For Storage initiative, which incentivises core sellers to route storage deals through the channel. CEO Michael Dell and other leaders have praised this move as a way to strengthen relationships with channel partners.

The layoffs have led to various reactions within the industry. Gary McConnell, CEO of Dell Platinum partner VirtuIT Systems, sees the layoffs as a sign of Dells increased reliance on channel partners.

McConnell encourages those affected by the layoffs to seek opportunities within the channel. He believes the restructuring demonstrates Dells commitment to working more closely with partners, despite the uncertainty that accompanies such changes.

Strategic changes

Bob Venero, CEO of Future Tech, views the cutbacks as Dells strategy to leverage AI for increased productivity. He believes that relying more on the channel will benefit Dell as the company focuses on innovative products and solutions. Venero emphasized Dells exponential growth in channel presence over the past two decades and its continued strength in the market.

Denise Millard, Dells Chief Partner Officer, discussed the reorganizations benefits for the company and its partners. She noted that Dell is streamlining various departments to promote better collaboration and capitalize on a $2 trillion-plus market opportunity. Millard highlighted the substantial changes brought by GenAI and the evolving technology landscape, emphasizing the importance of partners in unlocking value for modern IT and AI.

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Overall, Dell Technologies restructuring aims to position the company for success in the AI era by becoming leaner and more focused on growth, while continuing to strengthen its relationships with channel partners.
Xs lawsuit alleges that the World Federation of Advertisers has misused its influence over brands and advertising agencies to unfairly discriminate against X, boycott advertising with the company read more

Months after telling advertisers to 'Go F**K Yourself', X's Elon Musk and Linda Yaccarino are suing brands for not advertising with them anymore. Image Credit: AFP

Elon Musk-led X Corp filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against a leading advertising industry coalition and several of its members, including major companies like CVS Health, Mars, Orsted, and Unilever.

The lawsuit alleges that the group has misused its influence over marketers and advertising agencies to unfairly discriminate against X Corp, resulting in an advertising boycott against the company.

Conservatives issues with GARM

This legal action is part of a larger movement by conservative lawmakers and media companies to challenge the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM). GARM was set up by the World Federation of Advertisers or WFA in 2019 to create standards for brand safety in digital advertising. Its members include significant tech firms, advertisers, agencies, ad tech companies, and advertising coalitions.

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Recently, conservative media firms, particularly the Daily Wire, have accused GARM of colluding with the ad-buying giant GroupM to dissuade clients from placing ads on conservative platforms. Last month, a hearing on Capitol Hill addressed these complaints.

What is Elon accusing GARM of?

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, claims that GARM, along with numerous non-defendant co-conspirators, conspired to withhold billions in advertising revenue from X Corp, formerly known as Twitter.

A report by the House Judiciary Committee, led by Republicans, suggested that GARM used shadowy corporate coordination to silence conservative platforms and stifle conservative voices

A copy of the lawsuit obtained by Axios indicates that GARM sparked a massive advertiser boycott by raising concerns about Twitters compliance with its standards after Elon Musks acquisition of the platform in 2022.

The lawsuit contends that these actions were against the unilateral economic interests of the advertisers and only made sense as part of a broader conspiracy where advertisers were confident that their competitors were also participating.

Other watchdogs sued

In an open letter to advertisers, X CEO Linda Yaccarino described GARMs behaviour as damaging to the industry and stressed the need to fix a flawed ecosystem that allows such illegal activities.

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X Corps lawsuit against GARM is part of its broader strategy to address advertising challenges through litigation. Last year, X Corp sued the progressive watchdog group Media Matters for defamation, accusing it of misrepresenting the amount of hate speech on the platform.

This case is set for trial next year. Another lawsuit against the Center for Countering Digital Hate was dismissed by a judge.

On Tuesday, Rumble announced it would join X in its lawsuit against WFA, GARMs parent organisation, and would also sue WPP and its subsidiary GroupM, one of the largest ad-buying firms globally. Communications between GroupM and GARM were a focus of the recent congressional hearing.

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Advertisers in limbo

X Corps advertising revenue has significantly declined since Musks purchase of the platform. This year, the company expects to earn about $2 billion in advertising revenue, down from $4.5 billion in 2021, the last full year it was publicly traded.

X Corp argues that the boycott and its effects persist despite the companys compliance with brand safety standards comparable to its competitors.

GARM is seen by many in the ad industry as a useful tool for making decisions about acceptable advertising environments. It is unlikely that Congress will intervene in this intra-industry dispute, leaving the courts to decide whether to proceed with the case or dismiss it.
Earlier this year, Tesla recalled 1.6 million vehicles in China to address issues with its Autopilot assisted driver system, aimed at reducing the risk of crashes. Yet, Tesla has been a dominant player in Chinas premium electric vehicle (EV) market for years now read more

Tesla's deliveries in mainland China grew by 37 per cent last year, reaching 603,664 units, making China Teslas second-largest market after the US, where sales increased by 25 per cent to 654,888 vehicles in 2023. Image Credit: Reuters

Tesla is recalling nearly all the cars it sold in mainland China over the past four years due to a software issue that might fail to detect when the bonnet is unlocked. This recall affects 1.68 million vehicles manufactured between October 17, 2020, and July 17, 2024, making it Teslas largest recall in the region.

The State Administration for Market Regulation announced the recall on Tuesday, highlighting that an unlatched bonnet could obstruct the drivers view and increase the risk of accidents.

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Going strong despite recalls

Tesla plans to resolve the issue with an over-the-air software update. The recall covers Chinese-made Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, as well as Model S and Model X vehicles imported from the US. Independent analyst Gao Shen noted that the recall is not expected to impact Teslas sales and operations significantly.

Earlier this year, Tesla recalled 1.6 million vehicles in China to address issues with its Autopilot assisted driver system, aimed at reducing the risk of crashes.

Despite these recalls, Teslas deliveries in mainland China grew by 37 per cent last year, reaching 603,664 units, making China Teslas second-largest market after the US, where sales increased by 25 per cent to 654,888 vehicles in 2023.

Teslas dominance in China challenged

Tesla has been a dominant player in Chinas premium electric vehicle (EV) market since the Gigafactory 3 in Shanghai began delivering vehicles in January 2020. This factory, Teslas largest globally, produces the Model 3 and Model Y cars, which are also exported to markets like Japan.

However, Tesla has faced multiple challenges regarding the quality and safety of its cars in China. The company has had several disputes with mainland regulators and customers since 2021. Nonetheless, Tesla has strengthened its ties with Chinese authorities, especially after a visit by founder Elon Musk to Beijing in April.

Tesla became the first foreign carmaker to receive approval from Chinese data security regulators, with the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers recognizing the Model 3 and Model Y for meeting national security standards.

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Tesla to try its hands on Full Self-Driving in China

Tesla is planning to test its Full Self-Driving autonomous driving software in China by the end of 2024. This move underscores Teslas commitment to innovation and its efforts to maintain a competitive edge in the burgeoning Chinese EV market.

In summary, while the recall of 1.68 million vehicles in China represents a significant event, it is part of Teslas broader strategy to ensure safety and quality. The companys continued growth in sales and strong market presence, coupled with proactive measures to address software issues, reflect its ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance in one of the worlds largest automotive markets.
The purpose of this bold attack could be multifaceted. It may aim to force Russia to divert some of its forces to defend a part of the frontline that has been largely dormant since spring 2022, while also boosting Ukrainian morale at home read more

A view shows a damaged house following what local authorities called a Ukrainian military strike, in the course of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the town of Sudzha in the Kursk Region, Russia, in this handout image released August 6, 2024. Reuters

Moscow reported that approximately 300 Ukrainian soldiers launched a cross-border attack into a previously quiet area of the front on Tuesday (August 6). The incursion, which reached as deep as 10 km inside Russian territory, marks one of the largest ground offensives into Russia since the war began over two years ago.

According to official Russian social media channels, the Ukrainian forces, supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armored fighting vehicles, attacked border units in two localities in the Kursk regionNikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnyaaround 8 am.

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The latest update on Wednesday (August 7) from Russian Ministry of Defence revealed that Kyiv kept up air attacks on the Kursk border region on August 7 as well.

The purpose of this bold attack could be multifaceted. It may aim to force Russia to divert some of its forces to defend a part of the frontline that has been largely dormant since spring 2022, while also boosting Ukrainian morale at home.

Russia on the backfoot?

On Tuesday, throughout the day, intense fighting was reported between the border villages of Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya, extending to the outskirts of Sudzha, 10 km from the frontline. Overhead images captured two strikes on Russian trailers loaded with tanks, indicating the depth of the incursion.

According to the Guardian, Rybar, a prominent Russian military blogger, described the situation in the Kursk region on Tuesday evening as tense, with ongoing battles in border districts. Judging by the latest footage, Ukrainian formations have managed to advance, the blogger noted.

Conflicting assessments, statements

This assessment contrasted with the initial statement from Moscows defense ministry, which claimed to have repelled the attack. After suffering losses, the Ukrainian sabotage group retreated to its territory, while some fighters attempted to gain a foothold directly adjacent to the state border, where they were blocked by Russian army units, the ministry said.

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Andrii Kovalenko, head of the anti-disinformation department at Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, disputed the Russian narrative.

Russian soldiers are lying about the controllability of the situation in the Kursk region. Russia does not control the border, Kovalenko stated.

With inputs from Reuters
The ongoing riots in several UK cities pose a law-and-order challenge to the still new government of Prime Minister Starmer. But the unrest is rooted in a rather multifaceted problem, involving issues of economic distress and job crisis 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. AFP

After the mass knifing incident, resulting in the death of three girls in Southport on July 30, rioting and unrest have spread to multiple cities across the UK. Rioting spread on the back of misinformation that far-right extremists allegedly led as part of their wider tactics. It began with a false claim that the accused knifer was a Muslim asylum seeker who had arrived in the UK by boat. Later, it came to public knowledge that the person was a British citizen, born to Rwandan immigrants.

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The UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has warned that rioters will have to face the full force of the law. Though rumours and misinformation are carrying the unrest from one place to another, these ongoing riots in the UK cities, including Sunderland (the current epicentre) and Southport (the source) are linked to underlying economic distress, unemployment, and broader economic stagnation.

Heres a brief examination of the key economic issues contributing to the unrest. It is the case context and unresolved legacy issues as happens in all cases of unrest.

Economic stagnation

Sunderland, like many other parts of the UK, has faced significant economic decline over the past few decades. From 1975 to 1989, the city lost a quarter of its jobs due to the decline of coal mining and shipbuilding industries. This historical decline has left a lasting impact on the citys economic vitality. The loss of these industries, which once formed the backbone of Sunderlands economy, has resulted in a long-term struggle to revitalise and diversify the local economy.

Economic stagnation in Sunderland has created a fertile ground for frustration and discontent. The city has been unable to recover fully from its industrial decline, and the lack of economic opportunities has left many residents feeling trapped and hopeless. The stagnation is not just a local issue but reflects broader economic challenges faced by many regions in the UK that were once industrial powerhouses.

This is not the first time that the UK has witnessed riots across cities that have issues rooted in economic realities. In 2011, Tottenham in north London saw a lot of violence during the unrest triggered by the police shooting of a 29-year-old black man. A year later, the Citizens Inquiry into the Tottenham Riots report blamed one of the most violent riots in the UK capital on high joblessness and toxic relations between the police and citizens. Economic distress, anywhere, needs just a small spark to flare up the accumulated societal anger.

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Low wages and youth unemployment

Years of economic deprivation have led to persistent joblessness in Sunderland and similar cities. As of early 2024, Sunderlands unemployment rate stands at approximately 7.2%, higher than the national average of around 4.8%.

Youth unemployment in Sunderland is particularly concerning, with rates estimated to be above 15%, reflecting significant challenges for young people entering the workforce. Despite some signs of recovery, the local economy has not rebounded sufficiently to provide ample employment opportunities for its residents.

Average wages in Sunderland remain lower than the national average. Economic master plans highlight the ongoing wage disparity, which exacerbates feelings of economic injustice and frustration among residents.

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The median annual wage in Sunderland is around 22,000, compared to the UK median of 25,000, indicating a significant wage gap that affects the standard of living for many families. This wage disparity is a critical factor driving economic frustration and social unrest.

Brexit impact on the UKs overall economy, deepening distress

The 2016 Brexit vote was heavily influenced by economic fears and dissatisfaction. The UK expected to gain from Brexit. The leadership blamed emerging economic distress on the economies across the English Channel, the European mainland countries. However, Brexit and the subsequent Covid-19 pandemic only deepened the economic distress in British society.

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For example, Sunderlands 61.3% vote for Brexit was seen as a reflection of working-class discontent and concerns over uncontrolled migration from the EU. While Brexit proponents promised economic rejuvenation, many areas have struggled with the subsequent economic uncertainties and disruptions. The promise of economic revival has yet to materialise for many in Sunderland, exacerbating frustrations and discontent.

Brexit has also had a broader impact on the UKs economy, affecting trade, investment, and labour markets. The uncertainty surrounding Brexit negotiations and the new trade agreements have created a challenging environment for businesses, leading to decreased investment and economic growth. The disruption in supply chains and changes in trade regulations have also affected industries that are crucial to the UKs economy, deepening the economic distress in many regions.

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Immigration and economic frustration

Sunderlands unanimous vote in 2022 to become a City of Sanctuary, welcoming asylum seekers and refugees, has been a contentious issue. While some residents support this move, others see it as a strain on already limited resources. The perception that immigrants receive government handouts while local citizens struggle with basic needs has fuelled anti-immigrant sentiments. This belief, whether accurate or not, has contributed to the unrest and anti-immigrant rhetoric.

There is a widespread belief among residents that immigrants are given preferential treatment in housing and benefits, which has added to the economic frustration. In Sunderland, approximately 22% of working-age adults are on Universal Credit, reflecting high levels of economic distress.

Many residents rely on housing benefits to afford accommodation, with nearly 25% of households receiving some form of housing benefit. These perceptions and economic realities have heightened tensions and contributed to the recent riots.

Rise of far-right creating social tensions

Economic stagnation has created a fertile ground for far-right and extremist racist views. Political figures like Nigel Farage have capitalised on economic and migration concerns to garner support. His Reform UK partys strong performance in recent elections in Sunderland underscores the link between economic distress and the rise of far-right sentiments. Farages rhetoric has resonated with those feeling left behind by mainstream political parties, further polarising the community.

The economic divide has also exacerbated social tensions, with residents feeling disenfranchised and fearful for the future. The riots have been partly attributed to both local frustrations and the influence of outside agitators preying on these economic and social insecurities. The social fabric of communities like Sunderland has been strained by these divisions, leading to an environment ripe for conflict.

The riots in Southport, Sunderland and other parts of the UK can be traced back to deep-rooted economic issues  historical industrial decline, persistent unemployment, low wages, and the impact of Brexit and the pandemic. These economic challenges, coupled with concerns over immigration and reduced social services, have created a volatile environment where frustration and anger have boiled over into violence.

Addressing these underlying economic issues is crucial for fostering social cohesion and preventing further unrest, and a massive challenge for the newly inducted Starmer government. Starmer may do well to bring out comprehensive economic policies and targeted support measures to alleviate the economic distress and rebuild trust within these communities.
Deposed Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina is currently staying in India as she awaits a third country to grant her refuge read more

Sheikh Hasina is reportedly considering 'temporary residence' in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Belarus, or Qatar. Source: AFP.

After the British government rebuffed deposed Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasinas request for asylum, she is reported to be considering other options.

The places in considerations are the ones where her family members are based, according to reports.

While Hasinas daughter lives in Delhi, her son lives in the United States and her nephew lives in Finland.

Hasina is currently in India, but she is unlikely to settle here. She arrived here on a very short notice and is expected to depart for another country once the government there agrees to grant her refuge.

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After weeks of mass movement against her rule that climaxed on Sunday when nearly 100 people were killed, Hasina resigned as the premier on Monday and fled Bangladesh for her life and arrived in India. Initially, she was set to leave for London to live out her remaining days in exile, but now she is considering other options as the British government has rebuffed her request.

Will Hasina move to USA or Finland?

Hasinas son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, lives in the United States, but considering how critical the United States had been of her government, she is unlikely to be granted refuge there.

While Hasina can attempt to go anywhere as a private citizen, she would need political assurances as she has long been accused of human rights violations and in the liberal West, human rights cases can be opened against her and she may face legal problems. As Hasina would not want that, she is unlikely to go anywhere unless she had political assurances.

The second option could be Finland where Hasinas nephew, Radwan Mujib Siddiq Bobby, lives, according to The Hindu. He is the son of her sister Sheikh Rehana, who also fled Bangladesh with her and is staying in India for now.

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The newspaper reported that Hasina made a stop-over in Finland in 2021 when she was on a visit to the United States to spend time with Bobby.

Hasina could also explore other options

In addition to places where her family members are based, a report said that Hasina is exploring other options as well.

The PTI reported that Hasina is reportedly considering temporary residence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Belarus, or Qatar.

As none of these countries is a liberal Western democracy, Hasina is unlikely to face any human rights-related hiccups here.
Garment factories in Bangladesh, forecast to account for 90% of the countrys exports, reopened on Wednesday after production was disrupted by violent protests that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina this week read more

A view shows Bijoy Sarani intersection traffic, days after the resignation of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on 7 August, 2024. Reuters

Garment factories in Bangladesh, forecast to account for 90% of the countrys exports, reopened on Wednesday hoping to swiftly resume full operations after production was disrupted by violent protests that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina this week.

Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday after around 300 people were killed and thousands injured in a crackdown on student-led protests since July.

Garment and textile factories which supply major western brands such as H&M, Zara and Carrefour had been forced to shut under curfews imposed during the unrest.

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We lost a total of four days, it is too early to make an estimate of the loss. There was little physical damage to factories, Miran Ali, vice president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), told Reuters.

I am hopeful that in the next few days, we will see complete normalisation, he said. Im confident our buyers will stand by our side.

He added that H&M, which sources garments from about 1,000 factories in Bangladesh, had already said it would not seek discounts due to the delays. The worlds second largest fashion retailer had said it was concerned about developments in Bangladesh.

At a factory belonging to apparel maker Urmi Garments in Dhaka, the mainly female employees were back operating sewing machines.

We went out of work, sitting idle at home. We were scared. We are poor people depending on daily wages and overtime. If we sit back home, how can we run our families? 38-year old Razia Begum, an employee at the factory, told Reuters.

Factory manager Emdadul Haq said the factory had lost 228,000 pieces of production worth $107,000. In all, Urmi, which counts H&M, Japans Uniqlo and Britains Marks and Spencer among its clients, had lost about $2.2 million across three units, he said.

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The International Monetary Fund expects the ready-made garments industry will account for 90% of Bangladeshs $55 billion annual exports in the financial year 2024.

Bangladesh was the third-largest exporter of clothing in the world last year, after China and the European Union, according to the World Trade Organization. Nearly half of its exports in the July 2023-May 2024 period were to the EU, worth $21.65 billion.
Nearly 200 officials and employees of Bangladesh Bank forced several top brass members to sign blank resignation letters. They insisted that good governance wouldnt return to the banking sector if these allegedly corrupt officials remained in charge read more

Disgruntled employees forced Bangladesh Bank top brass to sign blank papers as they demanded resignations of allegedly corrupt higher-ups. Image source: AI-generated via DALL-E

Bangladesh Bank has been rocked by instability amid a procession by nearly 200 officials and employees who are demanding the resignation of the central bank governor, four deputy governors, advisers and the head of the financial intelligence unit (BFIU).

According to regional news outlet Prothom Alo, the members of the Central Bank of Bangladesh, at one point in the procession, went into the main building. They entered the governors floor and forced all the deputy governors to sign on blank papers.

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The media outlet quoted witnesses as saying that the aggrieved officials and employees claimed the top brass of Bangladesh Bank were responsible for corruption in the banking sector.

Witness accounts have suggested that the protesters first barged into the office of deputy governor Kazi Sayedur Rahman. They pressurised him to resign, which resulted in Rahman penning his signature and resignation on a blank sheet of paper. He left the bank right after this.

The disgruntled officers and employees then forced Deputy governors Md. Khurshid Alam, Nurun Nahar, and Md. Habibur Rahman were next. They, too, were forced to sign on the blank paper which could then become their resignation letters.

Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Units Masud Biswas and the banks adviser Abu Farah Md. Nasser were asked to resign, too.

All the top officials of the central bank were given the positions on a contractual basis. Witnesses said that four deputy governors and the head of the financial intelligence unit have already resigned and left the central bank.

The protesting officials and employees declared the top officials persona non grata in the central bank and declared executive director Zakir Hossain Chowdhury as the officer-in-charge.

They insisted that good governance wouldnt return to the banking sector if these officials remained in charge.

It is unclear what the political affiliations of the aggrieved officials and employees, if any, were. They were not carrying banners of any party.
Bangladeshs new police chief, Md. Mainul Islam, has apologised for the polices actions during recent deadly protests and promised an impartial investigation into the violence. His statement follows weeks of unrest that resulted in over 400 deaths and significant criticism of the polices handling of the situation read more

Bangladeshs newly appointed police chief on Wednesday offered an apology for the conduct of officers during deadly protests and vowed an impartial probe into the killings.

We are committed to conduct a fair and impartial investigation into every recent killing of students, common people and the police, Inspector General of Police Md. Mainul Islam told reporters.

In the current protests our previous responsible officials were not able to fulfil their duties as per the expectations of the countrymen, he added, a day after he was appointed following the ouster of the prime minister.

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I, as the chief of police, apologise on behalf of the Bangladesh Police for that.

He also said he had asked police units to end their strike and return to duty on Thursday, when Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus is set to return to the country to lead a caretaker government.

More than 400 people were killed during weeks of clashes between protesters and security forces before ex-prime minister Sheikh Hasina quit on Monday.

Among 44 dead bodies brought to Dhaka Medical College Hospital on Monday  the deadliest day since unrest began in early July  many of them were young men and almost all had bullet wounds.

Since Hasina fled, police reported mobs launching revenge attacks on her allies, as well as on police stations and officers.

Police unions said their members had gone on strike Tuesday until the security of officers was assured.
The nationwide curfew had been imposed after at least 91 people were killed and hundreds injured in nationwide clashes on Sunday, the deadliest day since student-led protests against Hasina began in July read more

People shake hands with army personnel as they celebrate the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh. FIle image/ Reuters

The night before long-time leader Sheikh Hasina abruptly fled Bangladesh amid deadly protests, her army chief held a meeting with his generals and decided that troops would not open fire on civilians to enforce a curfew, two serving army officers with knowledge of the discussions told Reuters.

Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman then reached out to Hasinas office, conveying to the prime minister that his soldiers would be unable to implement the lockdown she had called for, according to an Indian official briefed on the matter.

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The message was clear, the official said: Hasina no longer had the armys support.

Details of the online meeting between military top brass and the message to Hasina that she had lost their backing have not previously been reported.

They help to explain how Hasinas 15-year rule, during which she brooked little dissent, came to such a chaotic and sudden end on Monday, when she fled from Bangladesh to India.

The nationwide curfew had been imposed after at least 91 people were killed and hundreds injured in nationwide clashes on Sunday, the deadliest day since student-led protests against Hasina began in July.

Army spokesman Lt. Col. Sami Ud Dowla Chowdhury confirmed the Sunday evening discussions, which he described as a regular meeting to take updates after any disturbance. He did not provide details when presented with additional questions about decision-making at that meeting.

Hasina could not be reached and her son and advisor, Sajeeb Wazed, did not respond to repeated requests for comment.

Reuters spoke to ten people familiar with the events of the past week, including four serving army officers and two other informed sources in Bangladesh, to piece together the final 48 hours of Hasinas reign. Many of them spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Hasina, who has ruled Bangladesh for 20 of the last 30 years, was elected to a fourth term leading the country of 170 million in January, after arresting thousands of opposition leaders and workers. That election was boycotted by her main rivals.

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Her iron-fisted grasp on power has been challenged since summer by protests triggered by a court ruling to reserve government jobs  heavily coveted amid high youth unemployment  for certain segments of the population. The decision was overturned but the demonstrations had quickly morphed into a movement to oust Hasina.

Zaman has not publicly explained his decision to withdraw support from Hasina. But the scale of the protests and a death toll of at least 241 made supporting Hasina at all costs untenable, three former senior Bangladesh army officers told Reuters.

There was a lot of uneasiness within the troops, said retired Brig. Gen. M. Sakhawat Hossain. That is what probably (put) pressure on the chief of army staff, because the troops are out and they are seeing what is happening.

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Zaman, who is related to Hasina by marriage, had showed signs of wavering in his support for the prime minister on Saturday, when he sat on an ornate wooden chair and addressed hundreds of uniformed officers in a town hall meeting. The military later made some details of that discussion public.

The general declared that lives had to be protected and called on his officers to show patience, said army spokesman Chowdhury.

It was the first indication that Bangladeshs army would not forcefully suppress the violent demonstrations, leaving Hasina vulnerable.

Retired senior soldiers such as Brig. Gen. Mohammad Shahedul Anam Khan were among those who defied the curfew on Monday and took to the streets.

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We were not stopped by the army, said Khan, a former infantry soldier. The army has done what he had promised the army would do.

SHORT NOTICE

On Monday, the first full day of the indefinite nationwide curfew, Hasina was holed up inside the Ganabhaban, or Peoples Palace, a heavily-guarded complex in the capital Dhaka that serves as her official residence.

Outside, on the streets of the sprawling city, crowds gathered. Tens of thousands of people had answered protest leaders call for a march to oust the leader, streaming into the heart of the city.

With the situation spiralling out of her control, the 76-year-old leader decided to flee the country on Monday morning, according to the Indian official and two Bangladesh nationals familiar with the matter.

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Hasina and her sister, who lives in London but was in Dhaka at the time, discussed the matter and flew out together, according to a Bangladesh source. They left for India around lunch, local time.

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told parliament on Tuesday that New Delhi had urged various political forces with whom we were in touch to resolve the situation via dialogue throughout July.

But as crowds gathered in Dhaka on Monday ignoring the curfew, Hasina decided to resign after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, he added. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India.

A second Indian official said it was diplomatically conveyed to Hasina that her stay had to be temporary for fear of negatively impacting Delhis ties with the next government in Dhaka. Indias Ministry of External Affairs did not immediately return a request for comment.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, whom the protesting students want to lead the interim government after Hasinas ouster, told The New Indian Express newspaper that India had good ties with the wrong people Please revisit your foreign policy.

Yunus wasnt immediately available for an interview.

Late in the afternoon on Monday, a Bangladesh Air Force C130 transport aircraft landed at Hindon air base outside Delhi, with Hasina on board.

There, she was met by Ajit Doval, Indias powerful national security advisor, according to the Indian security official.

Delhi had fought to carve Bangladesh out of East Pakistan in 1971. After Hasinas father was assassinated in 1975, Hasina took refuge in India for years and built deep links with her neighbours political elite.

Returning to Bangladesh, she gained power in 1996, and was seen as more sensitive to Indias security concerns than her political rivals. The Hindu-majority nation also regarded her secular stance as favourable for the 13 million Hindus in Bangladesh.

But back in Bangladesh, resentment still lingered even among retired soldiers that Hasina had been allowed to leave.

Personally, I feel that she should not have been given a safe passage, said Khan, the veteran. That was a folly.
Amid widespread attacks on political rivals and minorities in Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus has condemned violence and said it does no good to anyone.

Following the fall of Sheikh Hasinas 15-year rule in Bangladesh, the country is currently under the control of a military regime. The generals along with the student leaders, who launched the initial agitation that led to the mass movement that brought Hasinas rule down, have selected Nobel laureate Yunus to lead the interim government in Bangladesh.

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Yunus will arrive in Bangladesh from Europe on Thursday and the interim government will be sworn-in upon his arrival.

In a statement amid political uncertainties, Yunus has asked people to refrain from violence.

Yunus said, I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm. Please refrain from all kinds of violence. I appeal to all students, members of all political parties and non-political people to stay calm.

Yunus said violence is the enemy of the people.

Our youth is ready to give this leadership in creating a new world. Let us not miss the chance by going into any senseless violence. Violence is our enemy. Please dont create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country, said Yunus.

The Second Victory Day

Yunus hailed the fall of Hasinas government as the Second Victory Day of Bangladesh.

Following weeks of mass movement against her 15-yaer rule which climaxed on Sunday when nearly 100 people were killed, Hasina resigned on Monday as the premier and fled Bangladesh for her life. She is currently in India.

The movement against Hasina began as a student protest which turned into a mass movement as the Opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami joined it.

Yunus called for making the best use of our new victory.

I congratulate the brave students who took the lead in making our Second Victory Day possible and to the people for giving your total support to them. Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes. I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm. Please refrain from all kinds of violence. I appeal to all students, members of all political parties and non-political people to stay calm. This is our beautiful country with lots of exciting possibilities. We must protect and make it a wonderful country for us and for our future generations, said Yunus.

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Previously, Yunus has said that he looks forward to holding elections in a few months  even though he did not give a date. The student groups, who initially led the protests against Hasina before the movement was taken over by radicals of BNP and Islamists of Jamaat, have said that they want elections and a democratically-elected government and are not okay with either a military regime or an unelected technocratic administration like that of Yunus.
Bulgarias parliament passed a law banning LGBTQ propaganda in schools, defining non-traditional sexual orientations as outside accepted norms. Rights groups condemned the legislation as discriminatory, arguing it infringes on human rights and freedoms read more

Bulgarias parliament passed changes to its education law Wednesday, widening its scope to ban LGBTQ propaganda in schools in what rights groups slammed as discriminatory.

The amendment to the law  proposed by the countrys pro-Russian Vazrazhdane party  passed by a large majority, with 159 votes in favour, 22 against and 12 abstentions.

The law now bans the propaganda, promotion or incitement in any way, directly or indirectly, in the education system of ideas and views related to non-traditional sexual orientation and/or gender identity other than the biological one.

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Lawmakers also voted on a separate text that defines non-traditional sexual orientation as different from the generally accepted and established notions in the Bulgarian legal tradition of emotional, romantic, sexual or sensual attraction between persons of opposite sexes.

The rights NGO Bulgarian Helsinki Committee (BHC) had urged lawmakers not to pass the changes, saying they breach basic human rights, including those enshrined in the countrys constitution as well as EU laws and international conventions.

The law bans the dissemination of ideas and concepts including scientific information, BHCs vice-chair Radoslav Stoyanov told AFP.

It implicitly foreshadows a witch hunt and sanctions any educational efforts related to LGBTQ people in school education, lawyer Denitsa Lyubenova from Deystvie LGBTQ rights group wrote in a statement, slamming the bill as discriminatory.

Homophobic ideas often feature in Bulgarias political debate and in the media, as the country faces its seventh parliamentary elections in three and a half years amid serious political instability.

The Balkan country doesnt recognise same-sex marriage.

EU member Bulgaria also refuses to ratify the Istanbul Convention on preventing and combatting violence against women, which many in the country see as a vehicle for recognition of a third gender.

Rights groups plan to protest against the changes on Wednesday evening.

According to a recent report by the Institute for Market Economics (IME) in Sofia, rejection and discrimination are key factors in the emigration of LGBTQ people.

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In 2021, Hungary also passed a similar law, banning LGBTQ promotion to minors.
Announcing his major interview with X owner Elon Musk, Donald Trump said that more details will follow in the run up to August 12 chat read more

Recently, Tesla CEO and X owner Elon Musk has said that he admired Donald Trumps fiery spirit and fighting fist bumps in the air immediately after surviving an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally. Source: AP.

Donald Trump will be interviewed by Tesla CEO and owner of X Elon Musk on Monday (August 12) night. The announcement was made by the former US President on his Official Truth Social handle in which he said, On Monday night, Ill be doing a major interview with Elon Musk  details to follow!"

The interview comes in the run up to the November 5 US Presidential elections.

However, Musk is yet to comment on the interview with Trump on his social media platform, X.

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Until a few years ago, Musk has said he was a firm Democrat, supporting ex-president Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, and President Joe Bidens bids for the White House.

However, this year, the tech mogul endorsed Republican presidential candidate Trump and said he is upset at the woke mind virus he believes progressives have started to promote.

A report by the Wall Street Journal last month said that Musk donated $45 million a month to Trump.

Earlier this month, Musk explained as to why he will vote for Trump. Theres something to be said that America needs a strong leader where you have the perception of strength, he told psychologist and lifestyle author Jordan Peterson.

The Tesla CEO has been backing Trumps return to the White House and openly announced it after the assassination bid on the Republican presidential candidate.

Musk has said that he admired Trumps fiery spirit and fighting fist bumps in the air immediately after surviving an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.

Meanwhile, Trump, who is a known hater of electric vehicles, has recently converted after Musk endorsed him.

I am for electric cars. I have to be because Elon endorsed me very strongly. So I have no choice, Trump said recently.

Back in January 2021, during the final days of his term as the US President, Trump was banned from Twitter. However, his account on X was reinstated soon after Musk took over the social media platform.

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Interestingly, the news of Trump being interviewed by Musk comes after Michigan election officials along with North Carolina Board of Elections launched a probe into the Trump-supporting political action committee (PAC), which the Tesla CEO said he had created.

The probe centres on the allegations that the PAC has been scooping up and potentially misusing voter data.

According to a report by CNBC, Musks PAC in the US has been called out for lifting personal information from people under the guise of voter registration.

A recent report said that Teslas political group has been collecting personal data from people in Michigan and other states through its website.

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With inputs from agencies
A Danish court sentenced Polish man to four months in prison and ordered his deportation for punching Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in June. Following the assault, which caused minor injuries to Frederiksen, the man will also face a six-year re-entry ban into Denmark. The case revealed a troubling trend of violence against European politicians read more

A Danish court on Wednesday handed a Polish man a four-month prison sentence and ordered him deported for punching the countrys Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in June.

The 39-year-old, who Danish authorities have ruled cannot be named in the media, was immediately apprehended after the alleged assault on June 7 in a Copenhagen square.

We have found you guilty of having punched the prime minister with a closed fist on the right shoulder, judge Jacob Scherfig told the 39-year-old at the end of the trial Wednesday.

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The man, who has lived in Denmark for five years, will be deported after serving his sentence. In addition he will also banned from re-entering the Scandinavian country for six years.

During the two-day trial, he denied responsibility, saying he remembered coming face-to-face with the prime minister, whom he recognised, but not putting his hand on her.

He said he believed the memory loss was the result of alcohol previously consumed starting to take effect, and the surprise of suddenly coming face-to-face with the prime minister.

Following the announcement of the verdict, the man told the court through his lawyer that he accepted the ruling.

Frederiksen, 46, underwent a medical examination after the incident and was diagnosed with a contusion on her right shoulder and a minor whiplash injury, her office said at the time.

The man was convicted of violence against a public servant.

He was also convicted of several counts of indecent exposure and fraud relating to other incidents.

Neither the prosecution nor defence called Frederiksen as a witness during the trial, as the prosecution argued they could present a strong enough case without her testimony.

Frederiksen became Denmarks youngest-ever head of government when she was elected in 2019, aged 41. She won re-election in 2022.

The attack was widely condemned by leading European politicians, including EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, who called it a despicable act which goes against everything we believe and fight for in Europe.

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It followed a spate of assaults on European politicians from across the political spectrum ahead of the European Parliament elections in June.

On May 15, Slovakias Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot four times at close range as he greeted supporters after a government meeting.

Several politicians in Germany had been attacked at work or on the campaign trail.
Following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Irans capital Tehran last week, Yahya Sinwar has taken over as the chief of Hamas read more

FILE - Khalil al-Hayya, a high-ranking Hamas official who has represented the Palestinian militant group in negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage exchange deal, speaks during an interview with The Associated Press, in Istanbul, Turkey, on April 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra, File)

Hamas politician Khalil al-Hayya is set to continue leading indirect negotiations with Israel for a Gaza ceasefire with guidance from the groups newly appointed leader, Yahya Sinwar, who continues to run the war effort inside the enclave, three Palestinian sources including a Hamas official said.

Hamas announced on Tuesday that it had picked Sinwar - one of the masterminds of the militant groups Oct. 7 attack on Israel - as overall leader, replacing Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran last month.

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The choice of Sinwar, whom Israel has vowed to kill, is seen signalling a defiant stance by Hamas as the Gaza war grinds on, handing the leadership to a man who is widely thought to be running the war from tunnels beneath the enclave.

Experts on Palestinian politics had seen Hayya as a leading candidate to replace Haniyeh, due partly to his good ties with the groups main backer, Iran, whose support will be vital for the movement to recover after the war.

Working under the supervision of Haniyeh, Hayya has led the groups delegation in mediated talks with Israel aimed at securing a ceasefire and a deal to exchange Israelis abducted by Hamas on Oct. 7 with Palestinians in Israeli jails.

Dr. Khail Al-Hayya is the head of the negotiation team and there is no change to this, the Hamas official said.

Another source familiar with Hamas deliberations said Hayya had enjoyed the trust of both Haniyeh and Sinwar, and saying it was expected that he would continue to lead the indirect negotiations and be the diplomatic face of the movement.

Both Hayya and Zaher Jabarin, who leads Hamas in the West Bank from outside the Palestinian territories, will play a bigger role in the future, also as both have good relations with Iran and Hezbollah, the source said.

The sources declined to be identified because of political sensitivities.

Hayya is Hamas deputy leader for Gaza, though he has performed the role from outside the Palestinian territories for several years and resides in Qatar.

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Sinwar has not appeared in public since the Oct. 7 attacks, but has played a key role in directing military operations and the negotiations for a prisoner-hostage swap.

The source familiar with Hamas deliberations said messages continued to be exchanged back and forth between the groups leaders abroad and Sinwar in the Gaza Strip, though these may take time to deliver.

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters that Sinwars selection underscored the weight given by Hamas to the Gaza Strip.

It is also a message to the (Israeli) occupation that your assassination of Haniyeh brought about counter results, he said.

Hamas-led militants last October killed 1,200 people and abducted another 250, according to Israeli tallies. The attack prompted Israel to launch its devastating Gaza offensive which has killed around 40,000 people, according to the Gaza health ministry.
A federal judge ruled that Harvard University must face a lawsuit from Jewish students who accuse the school of ignoring widespread antisemitism on campus. The lawsuit claims Harvard failed to protect Jewish students from severe harassment and discrimination read more

A view of Harvard campus on John F. Kennedy Street at Harvard University is pictured in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., December 7, 2023 as leaders of various universities come under fire from their schools' Jewish communities for their handling of clashes between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian contingents since Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel. REUTERS

Harvard University must face a lawsuit by Jewish students who accused the Ivy League school of letting its campus become a bastion of rampant antisemitism, a federal judge ruled on Tuesday.

U.S. District Judge Richard Stearns in Boston found plausible accusations that Harvard was deliberately indifferent toward Jewish and Israeli students who said they feared for their safety after facing severe and pervasive harassment.

The judge also said he was dubious that Harvard could claim that some of the pro-Palestinian or anti-Jewish activities was protected by the U.S. Constitutions First Amendment.

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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 (complaint), proved hollow, Stearns wrote.

The facts as pled show that Harvard failed its Jewish students, the judge added. He did not rule on the merits.

Students sought an injunction to stop Harvards 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.

Harvard and its lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

A lawyer for the students, Marc Kasowitz, said in an interview after the decision that Harvards conduct necessitated changes sought in the lawsuit.

Jewish students on campus were treated horrendously by other student groups, by administrators and by faculty who were very, very pro-Hamas and very, very antisemitic, he said.

MANY SCHOOLS ARE SUED

The lawsuit filed in January is one of many accusing major universities of allowing and encouraging antisemitism, including in on-campus pro-Palestinian protests, following last Octobers outbreak of war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

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It was filed eight days after the resignation of President Claudine Gay, who had been under fire for her handling of antisemitism, and for separate plagiarism allegations.

Students accused Harvard of selectively enforcing its anti-discrimination policies to avoid protecting Jewish students from harassment, ignoring their pleas for protection, and hiring professors who advocated anti-Jewish violence and spread antisemitic propaganda.

The students said they were maligned as murderers and colonizers, and subjected to offensive chants such as

from the river to the sea.

They also objected to a Harvard Law Review editor being allowed to resume work as a teaching fellow after he assaulted a Jewish student at a pro-Palestinian die-in.

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Brown University and New York University settled similar cases last month.

Columbia University, meanwhile, agreed in June to provide safety escorts and take other steps to settle a lawsuit claiming its campus had become unsafe.

The schools main quad had housed a pro-Palestinian encampment that was dismantled following the April 30 arrest of dozens of protesters who took over a nearby academic building.

HARVARD TRIES ADDRESSING BIAS CONCERNS

In June, Harvard task forces on antisemitism and anti-Muslim bias each concluded that the campus was beset by discrimination and harassment, with reports of intolerance toward people with pro-Palestinian as well as pro-Israel views.

The antisemitism task force called for measures including anti-harassment training for students and for steps to ensure a welcoming environment for religiously observant Jewish students.

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Meanwhile, the task force on anti-Muslim bias recommended measures including steps to prevent the doxxing of students who support the Palestinian people, and clarification of school policies toward bullying and bias.

In a message accompanying the reports, interim Harvard President Alan Garber urged the school community strengthen our ties with a sustained commitment to engaging each other with tact, decency, and compassion.

Harvard removed Garbers interim title on Aug. 2.

Stearns said the Harvard plaintiffs can also pursue two other claims: that Harvard breached a contractual obligation to enforce its non-discrimination policies, and treated students unfairly by failing to enforce those policies evenhandedly.
In response to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, Iran is expected to attack Israel anytime read more

Ahead of the expected attack on Israel, Iranian Army chief Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi has promised the destruction of the Jewish state.

Following the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, which Iran blamed on Israel, Iran has vowed to extract revenge. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly ordered direct attacks on Israel and Israel and the United States have assessed that an attack is considered imminent.

Amid fears that the Iranian attack could trigger a full-scale war in the Middle East, Mousavi has said that Israel cannot stop its annihilation and the end of the State of Israel is not far.

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Mousavi said that Israel is resorting to war in attempts to halt the states destruction. By doing such things, he said that Israelis want to save themselves from the quagmire they are caught in, but they definitely cannot save themselves from annihilation, according to Iranian media.

Mousavi further said that a strong and determined response to Haniyehs assassination was in the offing.

Iran committed to destruction of Israel

As Israel cannot save itself from annihilation, it has no future, said Mousavi.

Iran is the archenemy of Israel since the inception of the regime following the Islamic Revolution of 1979. It rejects the existence of the State of Israel and is committed to its destruction. Iran considers Israel a cancerous tumour that it says must be removed from the face of the Earth. While this is enshrined in the ideology of the Islamic Revolution, Supreme Leader Khamenei also tweeted it.

Our stance against Israel is the same stance we have always taken. #Israel is a malignant cancerous tumor in the West Asian region that has to be removed and eradicated: it is possible and it will happen. 7/31/91#GreatReturnMarch  Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) June 3, 2018

Along with Israel, Iran considers the United States its principal enemy. It calls the United States the Great Satan and considers Israel an imperialist outpost of the United States in the Middle East.

Echoing Mousavis words, Brigadier General Hamid Vahedi said the end of Israel was near.

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We believe that this child-killing Israeli regime is nearing its end. History shows that anyone who rules with oppression will not remain in power and will be annihilated ASAP, the Iranian media quoted Vahedi as saying.

The anticipated Iranian attack on Israel has stoked fears of an all-out war in the Middle East. Iran apparently no longer cares about it. The Wall Street Journal has reported that Iran has told Arab countries that it no longer cares if its attack sparks a full-scale war.
The United States and Israel believe that an attack by Israel in response to Hamas chief Ismail Haniyehs assassination is imminent read more

As Israel braces for an imminent attack, Iran has blocked its airspace for military activities, according to Egyptian media.

In response to the assassination of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which Iran has blamed on Israel, Iran has vowed to extract revenge. The United States and Israel have assessed the attack may come anytime and have been making defensive preparations.

Now, Egyptian state-media outlet Al Qahera News TV has quoted an Egyptian official as saying that Iran has advised civilian airlines worldwide to avoid flying through Iranian airspace.

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The official said that Iran is banning civilian air travel through its airspace as its plan to conduct military exercises.

There are fears that the Iranian attack the subsequent Israeli response could plunge the Middle East in an escalatory cycle leading to a fall-out war. Even though there are all-round efforts to convince the parties to not escalate till the level of a full-scale war, Iran no longer appears to care about a war.

The Wall Street Journal has reported that Iran has told Arab leaders that it no longer cares if its attack on Israel leads to a full-scale enveloping the Middle East.

Notably, Iran had issued a similar ban for the airspace in certain parts of the country earlier this week. In a NOTAM issued on Monday, Iran had banned civilian air traffic in the countrys central, western, and northwestern regions and has advised civilian aircraft to change their routes if their routes passed through these regions.

Egypt also issues NOTAM

Following the reported closure of Iranian airspace, Egypt has also asked its airlines to avoid the Iranian airspace.

Reuters has reported that Egypt has a very specific NOTAM. It has said that the Egyptian airlines must avoid Iranian airspace for the three-hour period during 1-4 am on Thursday (August 8).

All Egyptian carriers shall avoid overflying Tehran (Flight information Region) FIR. No flight plan will be accepted overflying such territory, said the NOTAM, as per Reuters.

FlightRadar 24 noted in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that the NOTAM was highly unusual as Egyptian flights avoid the Iranian airspace anyway.

Egypt has issued a curious NOTAM instructing Egyptian airlines avoid Iranian airspace between 0100-0400 UTC on 8 Aug. We say curious as Egyptian carriers route around Iran already as normal procedure.  @_opsgroup pic.twitter.com/hnR8q0Jrz1  Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) August 7, 2024

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Will Iran attack Israel tonight?

The closure of the airspace has led to speculations whether Iran is going to attack Israe tonight. The closure of the airspace and the notification to the world via Iran could be a way to send out a warning to Israel and its partners such as the United States to prepare for a barrage of missiles, rockets, and drones that may be in the offing. This would be like the way Iran communicated its intent to attack in advance earlier this year.

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In April when Iran attacked Israel for the first time ever, in response to the killing of top Iranian commanders at the Iranian diplomatic mission Syrian capital Damascus, it had telegraphed the intent as well as the nature of the attack several days in advance that allowed Israel and the United States to make defensive arrangements. They also forged a coalition that also involved France, the United Kingdom, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia to jointly beat back the Iranian barrage.

The United States is attempting to forge a similar coalition this time but it has proved to be much harder as anti-Israel sentiment in the region has soared following Haniyehs assassination last week. The United States has moved additional fighter planes, warships, and an aircraft carrier to the Middle East to help in Israels defensive interests and defend its own interests as well in the region from Irans and its backed groups attack.

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It is believed that Iran will attack Israel just like April but at a much larger scale. This would mean that Iranian-backed groups in the region from the Axis of Resistance, such as Hezbollah, Houthis, and militias in Syria and Iraq are likely to join the attack. Israeli outlet Ynet has said that Israel has assessed that the Iranian attack may open as many as five fronts of war.
In a televised address to the nation, General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the interim government will take oath at 8:00 pm on Thursday read more

Muhammad Yunus (R) is seen outside his house while his wife Afrozi (C) speaks to reporters in Dhaka, October 13, 2006. File Image/Reuters

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman has announced that Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunis-headed interim government will take oath on Thursday.

In a televised address to the nation, the army chief said the interim government will take oath at 8:00 pm on Thursday.

He also said the advisory council may have 15 members.

Yunus will lead Bangladesh through a democratic process when he arrives in the country to helm the interim government, said General Waker, adding, He is very eager to do this.

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The army chief expressed hope that Yunus will be able to take the country forward through a beautiful democratic process that will benefit people.

Meanwhile, the Nobel Laureate also said he was looking forward to helping the country overcome its current turbulence.

Im looking forward to going back home, see whats happening and how we can organise ourselves to get out of the trouble we are in, NDTV quoted him as telling reporters before boarding a flight at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport bound for Dubai, where he will take a connecting plane for Dhaka.

Yunus, the 84-year-old economist, was on Tuesday appointed as the head of 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.

With inputs from agencies
A Bangladeshi court has overturned the conviction of Muhammad Yunus, the head of the interim government, who had been sentenced to six months in prison for failing to set up a welfare fund for Grameen Telecom employees. Yunus was previously out on bail following the January verdict read more

A court in Bangladesh overturned on Wednesday the conviction of Muhammad Yunus, the head of the countrys interim government, in a case relating to labour law violations, the lawyer of the Nobel laureate said.

Yunus was out on bail after being handed a 6-month jail sentence in January for failing to create a welfare fund for employees of Grameen Telecom, a company he founded.
Yunus has to lead the interim government because Bangladeshs longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina suddenly resigned and fled the country amid widespread protests against her regime. Heres a look at the three crisis on his hands read more

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, on Tuesday (August 6) was appointed to lead Bangladeshs interim government. The decision was announced by Joynal Abedin, the press secretary to President Mohammed Shahabuddin.

This happened a meeting that included military chiefs, student protest organisers, prominent business leaders, and civil society members.

Yunus has to lead the interim government because Bangladeshs longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina suddenly resigned and fled the country amid widespread protests against her regime.

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Yunus will have the title of chief advisor, according to Students Against Discrimination (SAD) leader Nahid Islam.

Heres a look at the three crisis on Yunus hands as the leader of the interim government:

Power vacuum

After Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country, the president dissolved Parliament. That happened on August 6. Many Awami League leaders, fearing for their lives, also fled elsewhere with their families. This has created a political power vacuum in the country. Yunus will have to quickly select a group of ministers to run the country.

This is unlikely to be easy. He might not have a free-hand in selecting his Cabinet. Nahid Islam, a key organiser of the protests, has said protesters would propose more names for the Cabinet.

Threat from the military

In light of the growing protests and unrest in the country, it was the military chief, General Zaker-uz-Zaman who issued an ultimatum to Hasina, demanding that she leave the country. On Monday (August 5) he had also taken temporary control while a new government was formed.

The army has taken a significant role in stabilising the country, but there are concerns about the militarys involvement in governance, especially given the atrocities under military rule in Bangladesh in the past.

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Communal tensions

The Hindu minority and other targeted groups face heightened fear and insecurity. Ensuring their protection and fostering social reconciliation will be crucial for Yunus as he works to stabilise the nation and hand over power to the nexxt government.

With inputs from agencies
The Pakistan government said that said that it is sincerely hoping for a peaceful and swift return to normalcy in Bangladesh read more

People shake hands with army personnel as they celebrate the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, Bangladesh, August 5. Source: REUTERS.

Pakistan on Wednesday expressed solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and hoped that the country would soon return to normalcy.

A student-led protest movement over quotas in government jobs in Bangladesh forced Sheikh Hasina to resign as prime minister and flee to India.

As the army took charge following Hasinas ouster and the death toll in the violence, in which temples were also attacked, rose to 440, President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament on Tuesday and appointed 84-year-old Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as the head of an upcoming interim government.

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The Government and people of Pakistan stand in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh, sincerely hoping for a peaceful and swift return to normalcy, the Foreign Office said in a brief statement in its first reaction to the recent political change in Bangladesh.

It further stated that the resilient spirit and unity of the Bangladeshi people will lead them towards a harmonious future.

Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan in 1971. Hasinas father Sheikh Mujibur Rehman was instrumental in the creation of Bangladesh with Indias help.
We are confident that the resilient spirit and unity of the Bangladeshi people will lead them towards a harmonious future, said a statement from the foreign ministry of Pakistan read more

Activists clash with the police during a march to remember victims of recent countrywide clashes, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. AP

Pakistan said Wednesday it stands in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh after the prime minister fled the country following weeks of protest and civil unrest.

We are confident that the resilient spirit and unity of the Bangladeshi people will lead them towards a harmonious future, AFP quoted Pakistan foreign ministry as saying in a statement.

A student-led protest movement over quotas in government jobs in Bangladesh forced Sheikh Hasina to resign as prime minister and flee to India.

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As the army took charge following Hasinas ouster and the death toll in the violence, in which temples were also attacked, rose to 440, President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament on Tuesday and appointed 84-year-old Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as the head of an upcoming interim government.

Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan in 1971. Hasinas father Sheikh Mujibur Rehman was instrumental in the creation of Bangladesh with Indias help.
Pakistani national, 46-year-old Asif Raza Merchant, had recently visited Iran and sought to hire a hit man to carry out assassination in retaliation for the US killing of Irans Revolutionary Guards top commander Qassem Soleimani in 2020 read more

Pakistani man, Asif Raza Merchant, alleged to have ties to Iran has been charged in a plot to carry out political assassinations on US soil, the Justice Department said on August 6, 2024. Source: Justice Department via AP.

A Pakistani man, who allegedly has ties with the Iranian government, has been charged in a foiled plot to assassinate former US President Donald Trump and other US government officials on American soil.

Why Pakistan man wanted to assassinate Trump?

The Justice Department said that the Pakistani national, 46-year-old Asif Raza Merchant, who had recently visited Iran, allegedly sought to hire a hitman to assassinate a politician or a US government official in America- in retaliation for the US killing of Irans Revolutionary Guards commander Qassem Soleimani in 2020 in Baghdad, Iraq.

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A report by Reuters mentioned people familiar with the matter as saying that Trump, who as president approved the drone strike on Soleimani, was a potential target of the plot, but the scheme was not conceived of as a plot to assassinate the former president.

Merchant allegedly was plotting to carry out killings of an unidentified politicians or US government officials and Trump was viewed as a possible target.

As per court documents, Merchant said that he wanted to target individuals in the US who are hurting Pakistan and the world, [the] Muslim world. These are not just normal people.

Merchant arrested day ahead of Trumps assassination attempt on July 12

Merchant was arrested in New York on July 12, just a day ahead of an assassination attempt on Trump by 30-year-old Matthew Crooks who fired shots during a rally of the former president in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Officials, however, said that there is no evidence that Merchants plan had any connection to last months assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania.

The officials further said that Merchants arrest had disrupted what they characterised as a far-ranging plot that also included seeking to steal computer files from US officials.

Prosecutors said Merchant orchestrated a plot to assassinate US government officials and steal information on US soil."

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They also alleged that Merchant spent time in Iran before traveling to the US from Pakistan.

After spending time in Iran, Merchant flew from Pakistan to the US to recruit hit men to carry out his scheme, they said.

As per court records, Merchant was charged with murder for hire in federal court in New Yorks Brooklyn borough. A federal judge ordered him detained on July 17.

This dangerous murder-for-hire plot exposed in todays complaint allegedly was orchestrated by a Pakistani national with close ties to Iran and is straight out of the Iranian playbook A foreign-directed plot to kill a public official, or any US citizen, is a threat to our national security, FBI director Christopher Wray said in a statement.

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In an affidavit for a criminal complaint that was unsealed on Tuesday afternoon in federal court in New Yorks Brooklyn, an FBI agent stated that Merchant had orchestrated a plot to kill government officials since at least April.

How Merchant was arrested?

Merchant spent time in Iran, then flew to the US, where he contacted an unnamed person who he thought could help him carry out the scheme, the complaint dated July 14 stated.

But that person, whose help Merchant had sought to carry out the scheme, had allegedly reported him to law enforcement, becoming a confidential source.

The complaint mentioned that Merchant had initially contacted the source under the guise of offering business opportunities. He allegedly called the source in May and said he had an opportunity to earn $100,000 in the yarn-dyed clothing business.

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He allegedly met the source in a New York hotel room in early June and told him the opportunity would be ongoing, not a one-off event.

As per the complaint, Merchant then made a finger gun motion with his hand, indicating that the opportunity was related to murder.

The court filing says that Merchant then emphasised that he needed the source to arrange a rendezvous with hitmen in New York.

In a subsequent meeting, Merchant allegedly told the source that his three-pronged plot involved  stealing documents from a targets home, planning a protest, and killing a politician or government official.

As per the complaint, Merchant then gamed out a potential assassination plot by moving objects around a napkin on a table.

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Later, the source had put Merchant in touch with two hitmen, who were actually undercover officers. He paid them $5,000 in cash in New York as an advance payment for murdering the officials, the filing said.

Merchant had allegedly made plans to leave the US on July 12, but he was intercepted by law enforcement officers and was arrested.

With inputs from agencies
Two days after Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and fled the country amid widespread protests, major changes are taking place in the neighbouring countrys institutions, including the Bangladesh Army, Dhaka Metropolitan Police, and Bangladesh Bank read more

Two days after Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and fled the country amid widespread protests, major changes are taking place in the neighbouring countrys institutions, including the Bangladesh Army, Dhaka Metropolitan Police, and Bangladesh Bank.

Major General Ziaul Ahsan, the director general of the National Telecommunication Monitoring Centre (NTMC), has been sacked and replaced by Maj Gen ASM Ridwanur Rahman, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) directorate said in a statement on Tuesday.

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Lt Gen Saiful Alam has been stationed at the foreign ministry, while Lt Gen Mujibur Rahman has been appointed as GOC at Army Training and Doctrine Command, Lt Gen Ahammad Tabrej Shams Chowdhury as quarter master general, Lt Gen Mizanur Rahman Shamim as chief of general staff and Lt Gen Mohammad Shahinul Haque as commandant of NDC, the statement added.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the authorities also reconstituted the top positions of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).

AKM Shahidur Rahman has been appointed as Director General of RAB, replacing additional Inspector General of Police Md. Harun Ar Rashid.

Md. Mainul Hasan will replace Habibur Rahman as the commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police.

The new appointments were announced in the notification of the public security division of the home ministry.

Earlier on Tuesday night, Mainul Islam was appointed as Inspector General of Police (IGP). He was the commandant (additional IGP) of police traffic and driving school.

Amid these changes, Bangladesh Bank has also been hit by instability as a group of nearly 200 officials and employees staged a demonstration demanding the resignation of the central bank governor, four deputy governors, advisers and the head of the financial intelligence unit (BFIU).

According to Prothom Alo English report, during the demonstration, the protesters entered the governors floor in the main building of the central bank and forced all the deputy governors to sign on blank papers.

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The report cited the witnesses saying that four deputy governors and the head of the financial intelligence unit have already resigned and left the central bank in the face of demands by disgruntled officials.

The soldiers gave them security at that time, added the report.

Governor Abdur Rouf Talukder was not in the office at the time of the incident.

The protesting officials and employees did not carry any party banners. They accused top officials of Bangladesh Bank of being responsible for irregularities and corruption within the banking sector, arguing that good governance cannot be restored while these individuals remain in charge, reported Prothom Alo English.

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Witnesses said the protesters initially stormed the office of Deputy Governor Kazi Sayedur Rahman, pressuring him to resign. Rahman complied by writing and signing his resignation on a blank sheet of paper before leaving the bank.

Following this, the disgruntled group forced Deputy Governors Nurun Nahar, Md. Khurshid Alam, and Md. Habibur Rahman to sign the blank resignation paper as well. They also demanded the resignation of bank adviser Abu Farah Md. Nasser and Masud Biswas from the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit.

All these top officials were appointed on a contractual basis. The agitating officials and employees declared them persona non grata within the central bank and appointed Executive Director-1 Zakir Hossain Chowdhury as the officer-in-charge.

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76-year-old Hasinas 15-year rule ended after she 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 chopper to an airbase. From the airbase, she flew into Hindon in a C-130 military transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force.

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Her plan to travel to London has hit a roadblock following the UKs hesitation to provide her refuge and she is unlikely to move out of India for the next couple of days, according to people familiar with the matter.

With inputs from agencies
Chinas economic slowdown is not only worrying global giants such as Apple, General Motors and the like, its also driving its people to look for new residency. Lets see whats behind this migration wave and its impact on various countries, including Malaysia and the US read more

A group of people, including many from China, walk along the wall after crossing the border with Mexico to seek asylum, near Jacumba, California. File photo/AP

Chinas economy is slowing. The Chinese government is targeting an economic growth rate of 5.0 per cent in 2024, with China watchers terming the goal ambitious that may necessitate additional stimulus measures. The continued slowdown in growth, particularly after the second quarter numbers, has led Goldman Sachs to revise its forecast for Chinas 2024 growth downwards, from 5.0% to 4.9%.

The slowdown is having a ripple effect on Chinas society, both urban and rural, triggering fears of hardships among its population. And the Xi Jinping governments heavy-handed business policies are being blamed for driving a significant number of its citizens to seek new opportunities abroad. Countries like Malaysia and the United States are witnessing, as a result, an unprecedented influx of Chinese migrants, transforming local communities and economies.

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Bloomberg has reported that more than 1.1 million people have left China since 2019. The emigrants are motivated by an economic downturn and disillusionment with Xi Jinpings increasingly coercive rule, it said.

Interestingly, China doesnt publish data on emigration. Figures compiled by the United Nations show an annual net migration of over 191,000 in the decade through 2019. However, it has climbed to more than 310,000 in 2022 and 2023

Migration to Malaysia

In recent years, the number of Chinese citizens living in Malaysia has nearly doubled, spurred by an increase in students and new investors. The Financial Times quoted Ngeow Chow Bing, director at the Institute of China Studies at the University of Malaya, as saying that there are easily 150,000, and it could even be 200,000 Chinese citizens in Malaysia, up from about 82,000 in 2022, which he termed a very conservative estimate.

Most of the new Chinese arrivals in Malaysia are middle-class families and students. The countrys centuries-old Chinese diaspora, which makes up about 23 per cent of its 34 million citizens, makes Malaysia an attractive destination. Chinese citizens form the largest group of foreign students and long-stay residents in Malaysia, drawn by lower fees and less competition for university places compared to the West. The higher education institutions in Malaysia had 44,043 Chinese students enrolled last year, a 35 per cent increase from 2021.

Chinese investors are also contributing to this boom. There are about 45,000 owners, managers, and workers of Chinese companies in Malaysia, up from an estimated 10,000 in 2021. These investors are primarily involved in electronics and electric vehicle industry suppliers, seeking to increase capacity outside China to evade US tariffs.

Illegal migration to the United States

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At the same time, the United States has seen the largest wave of illegal border crossings by Chinese immigrants in history. Over the past 18 months, US authorities have encountered more than 55,000 Chinese migrants crossing illegally from Mexico, a sharp increase from 3,813 in 2022, the Washington Post reported recently. This journey, known in Chinese as zouxian or walking the line, involves a perilous trek across multiple countries and challenging terrains.

Many of these migrants are fleeing economic stagnation and political repression in China. The strict Covid-19 lockdowns and Chinas unemployment crisis have exacerbated these issues, driving more people to seek asylum in the US. However, the journey is fraught with dangers, including exploitation by global smuggling networks and harsh conditions during transit.

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Its not limited to Malaysia and the US

The recent wave of Chinese emigration is not limited to Malaysia and the US. Countries like Vietnam, Japan, and Thailand are also experiencing an influx of Chinese migrants. In Vietnam, Chinese business owners are setting up operations to support American tech giants in diversifying their supply chains. This has led to the development of prosperous Chinese enclaves in areas previously dominated by local industries.

Japan has eased immigration restrictions to attract entrepreneurs and investors, resulting in a noticeable increase in Chinese residents in regions outside major cities. The introduction of long-term residency visas in Thailand has also contributed to the rise in Chinese immigrants, transforming local communities and economies.

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There is another noticeable trend in Chinese emigration. Wealthy Chinese nationals are choosing destinations such as Singapore and Malta where they acquired citizenship through investment. They also form the largest source of golden visa applicants in Portugal and Greece.

But the middle-class Chinese nationals take the arduous and illegal routes  passing through several countries, particularly in Latin America  to present themselves at security points at the US-Mexico border. They often declare that they face a threat of persecution by the Chinese authorities if they go back home. This allows them to stay and work in the US until their cases are decided by courts, which are clogged with such litigations.

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The Bloomberg report said that Chinese outmigration is crowding out local merchants Bangkok downtown streets, industrialising parts of rural Vietnam and bolstering beach-side villa values in Japan.

Thailand reportedly now houses about 130,000 Chinese migrants, with the number of arrivals rising in recent years, thanks in part to the introduction in 2022 of a long-term residency visa.

Three years of harsh Covid Zero restrictions and a subsequent crackdown on property speculation is said to be driving down home prices and away wealthier Chinese to more welcoming places, and less affluent to countries where they hope to have a better future.

A new China tension in foreign societies

The influx of Chinese migrants is bringing both challenges and opportunities to local communities. In Malaysia, the growing number of Chinese residents is expected to have a significant impact due to the countrys smaller population and more sensitive ethnic divisions compared to its neighbours like Thailand. Malaysias Chinese diaspora has not fully assimilated, and the Muslim Malay majority is resistant to any increase in the influence of ethnic Chinese residents.

In the US, the illegal Chinese migrants primarily settle in areas with large Chinese-speaking communities, such as the Flushing area of Queens, New York. This neighbourhood has surpassed Los Angeles as the top destination for the most recent Chinese migrants, who are drawn by the availability of jobs, housing, and assistance with asylum claims.

Chinese migrants are, however, also contributing economically to their host countries. In Malaysia, for example, Chinese investors and entrepreneurs are actively involved in various industries, including electronics, electric vehicles, and agriculture. A representative of the China Entrepreneurs Association in Malaysia highlighted the arrival of new people every week, particularly those seeking to expand their businesses outside China.

But the presence of Chinese migrants has also sparked social tensions. In Thailand, social media is rife with complaints about Chinese newcomers disregarding local norms and flouting visa rules. Critics argue that Chinese-owned businesses do not significantly benefit the domestic economy as they source their labour, raw materials, and merchandise from China.

There is no denying that Chinas economic downturn and political climate are pushing more of its citizens to seek better opportunities abroad. Countries like Malaysia and the United States are witnessing significant increases in Chinese migrants, as a result, but not always with a pleasant outcome. As this trend continues, it will be crucial for host countries to manage the influx effectively, with the focus to address social tensions and integrate new arrivals into local communities.
The storm had already inundated coastal Georgia and South Carolina with relentless rain on Tuesday (August 6), prompting warnings of catastrophic flooding in Charleston, Savannah, and other cities read more

Heavy rains and strogn winds caused by Storm Debby has led to at least 4 US states declaring emergency. AP

Four states in the US Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia have announced a state of emergency in light of tropical Storm Debby. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 61 counties.

Warning of catastrophic flooding

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) cautioned that Debby could produce historic rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches, with isolated amounts reaching up to 25 inches, CBC reported.

The storm had already inundated coastal Georgia and South Carolina with relentless rain on Tuesday (August 6), prompting warnings of catastrophic flooding in Charleston, Savannah, and other cities. The storm, which made landfall as a hurricane on Floridas Gulf Coast, has already claimed six lives across Florida and Georgia.

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Four states brace for impact

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin mentioned that Storm Debby might bring significant rainfall and flooding throughout the entire Commonwealth, potentially leading to transportation difficulties and power outages, according to DC News Now.

Charleston Mayor William Cogswell issued a citywide curfew, stressing that storm surges of 1.2 to 1.8 meters would impede floodwater drainage. Charleston Countys emergency services are bracing for unprecedented flooding.

There are not enough pumps in the world to manage this volume of rain, he remarked, urging residents to stay off the streets unless in an absolute emergency, CBC reported.

In Colleton County, South Carolina, concerns over the McGrady Dam prompted evacuation orders. Local authorities warned that a breach could pose significant risks to nearby communities.

As Debbys center moved offshore of Georgia on Tuesday night, the storm was expected to linger, bringing further rainfall and the risk of tornadoes. A suspected twister had already caused damage in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, flipping cars and damaging businesses.

Savannah and Valdosta, Georgia, have already seen over 20 centimeters of rain, while Charleston and Hilton Head, South Carolina, have experienced between 25 and 30 centimeters.
The decision comes six months after the same court ordered Move Forward to drop its plan to reform a law on royal insults, ruling it was unconstitutional and risked undermining Thailands system of governance with the king as head of state read more

Thailands Constitutional Court on Wednesday ordered the dissolution of the popular opposition Move Forward party over its campaign to amend a royal insults law that protects the monarchy from criticism.

The court was ruling on a case that sought the partys disbandment following the same courts decision in January that Move Forwards campaign, which was subsequently dropped, was unconstitutional and tantamount to undermining Thailands governance system with the king as head of state.

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The decision comes six months after the same court ordered Move Forward to drop its plan to reform a law on royal insults, ruling it was unconstitutional and risked undermining Thailands system of governance with the king as head of state. Move Forward denies that.

Though the dissolution is likely to anger millions of young and urban voters who backed Move Forward and its progressive agenda, the impact of the ruling is expected to be limited, with only the partys 11 current and former executives banned from politics for 10 years.

That means 143 of its lawmakers will keep their seats and are expected to reorganise under a new party, as they did in 2020, when predecessor Future Forward was disbanded over a campaign funding violation.

If all join the same party, it would be the biggest in parliament and would be expected to continue a progressive agenda that includes military reform and undoing big business monopolies, among the policies that saw its rivals coalesce to block it from forming a government last year.

The decision comes at critical juncture in Thai politics, with cracks appearing also in an uneasy truce between the royalist establishment and another longtime rival, the populist ruling party, Pheu Thai.

The Constitutional Court will next week decide on a case brought by 40 conservative former senators seeking to dismiss Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin over his appointment to cabinet of a lawyer who served time in jail. He denies wrongdoing and says the appointment was above board.

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Tycoon Sretthas case is among factors that have heightened political uncertainty and roiled financial markets, with the prospect of political upheaval if he is removed.

A new premier would need to be voted on by parliament, potentially pitting Pheu Thai against coalition partners and leading to a shakeup of the governing alliance and realignment of cabinet and policies.
Thailands Constitutional Court will rule on two politically charged cases in the next week that will decide the fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the popular opposition party, amid heightened uncertainty over potential upheaval. read more

Thailands Constitutional Court will rule on two politically charged cases in the next week that will decide the fate of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the popular opposition party, amid heightened uncertainty over potential upheaval.

Both cases underline intractable rifts in Thai politics, defined by a two-decade struggle between its powerful conservative-royalist establishment, backed by the military, and parties with mass appeal such as Move Forward and Sretthas ruling Pheu Thai.

What is the case against Move Forward?

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The court will rule on Wednesday on an election commission complaint seeking Move Forwards dissolution over its campaign to reform a strict law on royal insults that protects the monarchy from criticism.

The complaint followed a January decision by the same court on the constitutionality of Move Forwards campaign, which it ruled was tantamount to an attempt to overthrow the system of government with the king as head of state.

Move Forward rejects that but has since dropped the campaign on the orders of the court.

The party has 30% of house seats after it won last years election but was blocked by conservative lawmakers from forming a government.

What happens if Move Forward is dissolved?

If Move Forward is disbanded, 11 current and former party executives, including Pita Limjaroenrat, who led the party to victory in the election, could be banned from politics and prohibited from forming a new party, likely for a decade.

Pita last month told Reuters he was hopeful his party would survive the case. It maintains the election commissions complaint was unlawful because it did not follow its own regulations.

If the party is disbanded, its surviving 143 lawmakers will keep their seats and are expected to re-organise into another party, as they did in 2020 when its predecessor, Future Forward, was dissolved over a campaign funding violation, which was among the factors behind massive anti-government street protests.

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Dissolution may impact the movements influence in parliament, however, as bans on its executives would see the removal of its ally and former member Padipat Suntiphada as first deputy house speaker.

What is the case against PM Srettha?

Srettha could be dismissed by the court on Aug. 14 after conservative senators alleged he violated the constitution by appointing to cabinet a former lawyer who was once jailed, whom the senators said did not meet ethical requirements.

Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer for the politically powerful Shinawatra family  the founders of Sretthas party  was briefly imprisoned for contempt of court in 2008 over an alleged attempt to bribe court staff, which was never proven.

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Srettha denies wrongdoing and says Pichit, who resigned from cabinet, had been thoroughly vetted.

What if Srettha is dismissed?

Tycoon Sretthas case is among factors that have heightened political uncertainty and roiled financial markets in Thailand, Southeast Asias second-largest economy, which he has struggled to revive, with delays implementing his signature handout scheme amid falling popularity.

If Srettha is removed, a new government must be formed and Pheu Thai would need to put forward a new candidate for premier to be voted on by parliament, with no guarantees it will succeed.

The vote could pit Pheu Thai against coalition partners, or lead to concessions in return for parliamentary votes, both of which could result in a shakeup of the governing alliance and a realignment of cabinet and policies.

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Who could be PM if Srettha exits?

Only those designated prime ministerial candidates by their parties prior to the last election can be nominated for premier.

Those include Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the ruling party leader and daughter of influential billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, former Justice Minister Chaikasem Nitisiri, Interior Minister and deputy premier Anutin Charnvirakul, Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga and former army chief Prawit Wongsuwon, a former deputy premier who was involved in two coups.
The US and Australia are already working to upgrade air bases in northern and western Australia, which are closer to potential flashpoints with China in the South China Sea than Australias capital of Canberra read more

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin attend a meeting with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles during the 2024 Australia-US Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) in Annapolis on August 6, 2024. Source: REUTERS.

Australia will begin co-manufacturing guided weapons with the US next year to boost supply for allies in the Indo Pacific and increase a US military presence in the country, including bomber aircraft, the two nations said after annual defence talks.

Australia and the United States are already working to upgrade air bases in northern and western Australia, which are closer to potential flashpoints with China in the South China Sea than Australias capital of Canberra.

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After annual AUSMIN talks in Annapolis, Maryland, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said there would be an increase in the presence of rotational US forces in Australia.

This will mean more maritime patrol aircraft and reconnaissance aircraft operating from bases across northern Australia. It will also mean more frequent rotational bomber deployments, he said.

In opening remarks Austin said the two allies faced shared security challenges including coercive behaviour by China.

A joint statement released after the AUSMIN talks expressed concern over Chinese military activity around Taiwan, and Chinas excessive maritime claims in the South China Sea.

They noted grave concern about Chinas dangerous and escalatory behavior toward Philippine vessels lawfully operating within the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

There are no US military bases in Australia, but the northern city of Darwin hosts a US Marine Rotational Force six months of each year and the US is building facilities for its marines and visiting air squadrons within Australian bases.

Australias Defence Minister Richard Marles said the presence of US forces in Australia contributed to deterrence in the Indo Pacific region, and there would be closer collaboration on guided weapons manufacture in Australia.

Australia will begin co-manufacturing guided missiles next year, including the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) used in Ukraine.

Australia is also testing a Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) with the United States, which Australia said it will consider fielding as its first hypersonic weapon for fighter jets, the joint statement said.

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The presence of American force posture in our nation provides an enormous opportunity to work with our neighbors in the region, Marles said.

Japan would increase exercises with US Marines in Darwin, while Australia and the US would hold regular exercises in the Philippines exclusive economic zone, the statement said.

The statement mentioned Australias strategic Indian Ocean territory, Cocos Islands, for the first time, saying the United States welcomed Australias planned infrastructure upgrades there and supported Australias completion of this work.

The Cocos Islands, with a population of 600, sits 3,000 km (1,864 miles) west of the Australian mainland and is described by the Australian Defence Force as key to its maritime surveillance operations in the Indian Ocean, where China is increasing submarine activity.

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Australia has said it will start construction on an expanded airfield on the island this year, to carry heavier military aircraft, including the submarine-hunting P-8A Poseidon.

Australian Strategic Policy Institute executive director Justin Bassi said the clarity on the threat from Beijing and support for the Philippines in the joint statement was vital support for Manila.
Around 8,000 police personnel, including special riot-control police, have been deployed across the United Kingdom to tackle the far-right mobs read more

More than 400 rioters have been arrested for being part of far-right violence in the United Kingdom (Photo: Reuters)

The United Kingdom is bracing for another night of violence as far-right mobs have planned rallies at around 100 places and have issued another hit list.

Even as British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has warned that rioters will meet the full force of the law, the far-right mobs appear to go ahead with plans of carnage.

In addition to 100 rallies, the authorities have learnt that the far-right mobs have prepared a hit list of as many as 39 places associated with immigration lawyers and charities that are expected to be attacked on Wednesday night, according to British media.

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In England and Wales, 41 of 43 police departments have been mobilised to deal with the rioters. The British government has said an army of around 6,000 riot-control police personnel have been deployed to tackle the mobs.

For more than a week, far-right mobs have rampaged through British towns and have indulged in violence in at least 23 locations since Friday, according to The Sun.

The anti-immigrant riots began after a murder of three girls last month in the British town of Southport. Since then, the UK has witnessed some of the worst rioting in many years with shops and settlements of immigrant communities, including those from South Asia, being attacked and marketplaces being looted. More than 400 riots have so far been arrested and their prosecution has already started.

Far-right mobs to hold 100 rallies, issue hit list of 39 places

The British police forces, including specialised riot-control personnel, are bracing for far-right demonstrations at 100 places.

Moreover, the security services are also bracing for attacks on dozens of places as the far-right groups have circulated a hit list of 39 places comprising immigration lawyers, asylum centres, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The police are particularly concerned as far-right groups have been circulating arson manuals.

The Sun has reported that the manual has instructions on how to make petrol bombs to carry out attacks as part of the riots. It further said that a watchdog has revealed that far-right online forums have also issued calls for the murder of ethnic minorities and government ministers.

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One of the biggest security operations since World War II

In the wake of nearly-nationwide far-right violence, the British security services have mounted one of the biggest security operations since the World War II.

In addition to 6,000 riot-control police personnel, around 2,000 additional personnel have been drafted to protect specific locations expected to be attacked, according to The Sun.

So far, more than 100 police personnel have been injured in the attacks. The newspapers reported that 51 police personnel were injured while protecting an asylum centre in Rotherham and another 53 were injured in Southport last week.

The police are also preparing to tackle the fall-out from around 30 counter-demonstrations against the far-right mobs.

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The newspaper has reported that riot hotspots for Wednesday are London, Birmingham, Aldershot, Middlesbrough, Tamworth, and Rotherham.

As more than 400 arrested, Starmer issues stern warning

As more than 400 rioters have been arrested, British PM Sir Starmer has warned that the riots will face the full force of the law.

Of those arrested, around 100 people have already been charged.

Following an emergency meeting on Tuesday, Starmer said that rioters will be sentenced within one week of their arrest and there will be no lengthy trials.

Starmer said, 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.

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Starmer further said everyone involved in the rioting, either online or offline, will be punished.

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.

Separately, the top British prosecutor has said that terrorism charges are being considered against the rioters.

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 Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecution.
Messages online said immigration centres and law firms aiding migrants would be targeted on Wednesday (August 7). Speaking after an emergency meeting with ministers and police chiefs on Tuesday, Starmer said police would be in place to cope with any further disorder read more

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer holds a meeting to discuss clashes following the Southport stabbing, at 10 Downing Street in central London, Britain, August 1, 2024. Reuters

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said sufficient police would be on the streets to handle anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant riots in the coming days as he sought to reassure communities braced for more violent protests on Wednesday (August 7).

Riots across a number of towns and cities have erupted following the murder of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed event in Southport, a seaside town in northwest England, after false messaging on social media wrongly identified the suspected killer as an Islamist migrant.

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Unrest has spread, with rioters targeting mosques and smashing windows of hotels housing asylum-seekers from Africa and the Middle East, chanting get them out, in the first widespread outbreak of violence in Britain for 13 years.

Messages online said immigration centres and law firms aiding migrants would be targeted on Wednesday, prompting anti-fascist groups to say they would counter any demonstration.

Speaking after an emergency meeting with ministers and police chiefs on Tuesday, Starmer said police would be in place to cope with any further disorder.

Our first duty is to ensure our communities are safe, he told broadcasters.

They will be safe. We are doing everything we can to ensure that where a police response is needed, it is in place, where support is needed for particular places, that is in place.

He said the fact that protests were being held in multiple locations made it difficult, but he had received the assurance he needed that police could cope with any disorder.

The government has increased prison capacity to cope with the large number of arrests made during the riots, which have prompted a growing number of countries to warn their citizens about the dangers of travelling in Britain.

Starmer said more than 400 people had been arrested, 100 had been charged, and he was expecting sentencing to start soon.

Anybody involving themselves in this disorder is going to feel the full force of the law, he said.

Three people will be sentenced on Wednesday in Liverpool, northwest England, after pleading guilty to violent disorder, the Crown Prosecution Service said.

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The justice department, which is due to release some prisoners early as it battles a jail overcrowding crisis, said nearly 600 prison places had been secured to accommodate those engaged in violence.

The unrest has prompted India, Australia, Nigeria and other countries to warn their citizens to stay vigilant.

Saminata Bangura, a 52-year-old support worker in a care home in Liverpool said she had felt so welcome in Britain after she moved from Sierra Leone. But she was now scared and largely staying at home.

Im so scared, even when Im walking now, because everywhere, were scared, especially, we Blacks, she said, describing how a library was vandalised near where she lives.

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Racial hatred

Starmer has vowed a reckoning for those who have engaged in rioting, hurling bricks at the police and counter protesters, and looting shops and burning cars.

Police on Tuesday charged a 28-year-old man with stirring up racial hatred over Facebook posts linked to the disorder. A 14-year-old pleaded guilty to violent disorder.

On Monday night, trouble flared in Plymouth, southern England, and again in Belfast in Northern Ireland, where hundreds of rioters threw petrol bombs and heavy masonry at officers and set a police vehicle on fire.

Police have blamed online disinformation, amplified by high-profile figures, for driving the violence.

At the end of December 2023, there were 111,132 individuals in receipt of asylum support in Britain, with 45,768 people in hotels. During that year, the governments statistics office estimates that net migration to the country was 685,000.

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Experts on extremism and social cohesion say far right agitators have used the Southport killings to spark violence.

Sunder Katwala, director of the think tank British Future, which focuses on migration and identity, said the killings had been used to mobilize against, particularly asylum seekers and Muslims, and that has continued, after the evidence which is that the person is neither an asylum seeker, nor a Muslim.

The police have said the attack was not terrorism-related and that the suspect was born in Britain. Media reports have said the suspects parents moved to Britain from Rwanda, a majority-Christian country.

In a YouGov poll on Tuesday, three quarters of respondents said the rioters did not represent the views of Britain as a whole, with 7 per cent saying they supported the violence.
After Ukraine to the war to a Russian town, President Vladimir Putin turned furious.

As Ukrainian and Russian forces fight in the Kursk province of Russia which borders Ukraine, Putin slammed the incursion as a major provocation.

Currently, as the Ukrainian and Russian militaries are fighting in the Kursk province of Russia, a Ukrainian commander in the region has claimed capturing a town. While Russia has confirmed the attack and has said civilians have been killed, it has not said anything about the capture of a town.

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Putin has said that Ukraine launched indiscriminate attacks in the province, according to Reuters.

The Kyiv regime has launched another major provocation, said Putin, adding that the forces were conducting indiscriminate shelling of civilian targets.

The agency further quoted Alexei Smirnov, the Kursk governor, as saying that three civilians had been killed in the fighting.

Ukraine takes war inside Russia

A Ukrainian commander on the frontline in the Kursk region told the British paper i that the military have captured the town of Sudhza.

The idea of taking the war inside Russia is that the Russian forces will have to devote resources to protect their own border instead of continuing attacking Ukraine, said this commander who was not named in the report.

The commander further said that taking the war inside Russia is the only way to take the pressure on the Ukrainian forces in Donbas and Zaporizhzhia regions.

We have no wish to be on Russian territory but there is no other way to take the pressure off of the front line in Donbas, in Zaporizhzhia. We know we cant go toe-to-toe with them in the east using the tactics they use because they dont care about their guys and for us our soldiers are our best resource. So for us this is the best way to draw their forces from the east and reinforce our border, said the commander to i.

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The commander further emphasised that the Ukrainian forces have no intention to occupying Russian land but they have to take the war to Russia as it makes operational sense to ease the pressure elsewhere in the eastern Ukraine.

We havent done this before because clearly Ukraine isnt interested in going into Russia. This isnt a case where we want to take Russian territory at all. We dont want to lose one guy taking Russia, we dont want Russia. But with the situation as it is in the east this makes perfect operational sense. What else are we supposed to do? Just sit here and watch while we get pushed back and back  and lose more of Ukraine. Its not a good solution, we had to do something else, said the commander.
While diplomats take the spotlight, its the non-essential staff who form the backbone of diplomatic missions ensuring smooth operations and safety for all read more

The evacuation of 190 non-essential staffers and their families from the Indian High Commission in Dhaka highlights the escalating instability in Bangladesh following the ousting of longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina. These individuals were repatriated on a special Air India flight as tensions rose in the neighbouring country. Despite these developments, India maintains its diplomatic presence in the region with all diplomats still stationed and its missions including assistant high commissions or consulates in Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajshahi and Khulna remaining operational.

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On Tuesday, the United States government had ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel from Bangladesh marking a precautionary measure as the political turmoil intensified. The State Departments decision to withdraw all non-emergency diplomats and personnel along with their families reflected the severity of the situation. Although like its Indian counterpart the US embassy in Dhaka continues to function at limited capacity, these actions by India and the United States reflect a broader concern among international stakeholders regarding the potential ramifications of Bangladeshs political crisis on regional stability and security.

However, in the thick of things, the importance of non-essential staff who support diplomatic operations in embassies and consulates is often overlooked. Embassies and consulates are critical components of international diplomacy, serving as the primary points of contact between nations. They facilitate communication, represent national interests, and offer services to citizens abroad. Within these missions, there exists a classification of personnel often referred to as non-essential staff. These individuals play vital supportive roles, ensuring the smooth operation of diplomatic missions, even though they are not directly involved in core diplomatic activities or negotiations. Understanding who comprises non-essential staff and the international legal frameworks that influence their roles is crucial for appreciating their contributions to diplomatic missions.

Who are non-essential staff?

Non-essential staff in embassies and consulates typically encompass a wide range of positions that support administrative, logistical and everyday functions. While they may not be directly involved in the essential diplomatic functions, their roles are indispensable for maintaining the missions efficiency and effectiveness. Here are some common categories of non-essential staff:

Administrative support staff: These individuals handle routine office tasks such as clerical work, scheduling and managing documentation. Roles include secretaries, receptionists and office assistants, who ensure that the missions operations run smoothly on a day-to-day basis.

Facilities and maintenance staff: Custodians, cleaners and maintenance workers are responsible for the upkeep of embassy premises ensuring a clean and functional environment. This category also includes landscaping personnel who manage outdoor areas.

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Security staff: Security guards and surveillance operators provide essential physical security and monitor the premises. Although they play a crucial role in ensuring safety, they are not involved in high-level security strategy or intelligence.

Technical support staff: IT support technicians and communications personnel maintain the technical infrastructure including computer systems and networks. They troubleshoot everyday issues but do not engage in secure or classified communications.

Hospitality and event staff: Catering staff and event coordinators assist with organising official functions, receptions, and cultural events, providing food services and logistical support.

Consular support staff: Employees like visa processors and customer service representatives handle public inquiries, manage appointments and process visa applications though they do not make policy decisions.

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Transport and logistics personnel: Drivers and logistics coordinators manage transportation needs and supply chain logistics, supporting the movement of staff and materials.

Cultural and public affairs staff: Public relations assistants and cultural liaisons aid in community outreach and organise cultural exchange programmes, but they do not partake in diplomatic negotiations.

While these roles might not seem pivotal in the grand scheme of diplomacy, they are integral to the day-to-day operations of embassies and consulates allowing diplomats and core personnel to focus on their essential duties.

International legal frameworks affecting non-essential staff

While there is no specific international law that governs the classification of non-essential staff, several international treaties, agreements and customary practices indirectly influence the operations and staffing of diplomatic missions including the roles and treatment of non-essential personnel.

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Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961)

The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961) serves as the cornerstone of international diplomatic law. It defines the roles, privileges and immunities of diplomatic missions and their staff. Although the convention does not specifically categorise non-essential staff, it provides guidelines that affect them indirectly.

 Article 1 of the Vienna Convention classifies mission staff into several categories like Diplomatic agents, administrative and technical staff and service staff. Non-essential staff typically fall into the latter two categories, focusing on administrative support and service functions.

 Article 37 provides certain privileges and immunities to the family members of diplomatic agents and to administrative and technical staff thus extending some protections to non-essential personnel. For example, while diplomatic agents enjoy full diplomatic immunity, non-essential staff might have limited privileges depending on their roles.

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 Article 44 ensures the safe departure of all mission staff, including non-essential personnel, in the event of a crisis. This provision highlights the importance of safeguarding non-essential staff during emergencies reflecting their inclusion in the broader diplomatic framework.

Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963)

The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963) complements the diplomatic convention by addressing consular staffs specific roles and protections. Consular posts are responsible for protecting the interests of the sending state and its nationals, issuing passports and assisting distressed citizens abroad.

 Article 1 distinguishes between consular officers and employees. Consular employees, who often comprise non-essential staff, are tasked with administrative and technical duties necessary for consular functions.

 Article 44 emphasises the host countrys obligation to protect consular staff and facilities during crises, ensuring safe passage for non-essential personnel. This provision underscores the host countrys duty to safeguard all consular staff, including those not directly involved in core consular functions.

Customary international law

Customary international law plays a significant role in shaping diplomatic norms including the treatment and classification of non-essential staff. Key principles include:

Functional necessity: Diplomatic missions must maintain staff levels necessary for effective operation. While non-essential staff may be scaled down during crises, their contributions remain vital for day-to-day functionality.

Safety and security: Host countries are obligated to protect diplomatic personnel including non-essential staff ensuring their safety and security during normal operations and emergencies. This obligation is part of the broader duty of host nations to respect and protect diplomatic missions.

Diplomatic immunity: While non-essential staff typically have limited immunity, international conventions generally provide certain protections and privileges, recognising their role within the mission.

Bilateral agreements

Bilateral agreements between countries can specify additional guidelines regarding non-essential staff in diplomatic missions. These agreements may affect staffing, roles, and privileges, offering more tailored provisions for non-essential personnel.

Host country agreements: These agreements outline specific conditions for non-essential staff such as tax exemptions, employment terms and residency permits, which may vary depending on the host countrys policies.

Cultural exchange programmes: Bilateral agreements may include provisions for non-essential staff involved in cultural and educational exchanges aligning their roles with broader diplomatic goals.

Crisis management protocols

In times of crisis, international guidelines and protocols may influence the evacuation and protection of non-essential staff. These protocols emphasise the host countrys responsibility to ensure the safety of all mission personnel, regardless of their classification.

Evacuation protocols: Host countries must provide safe passage for all embassy personnel, including non-essential staff during political unrest, natural disasters or health emergencies. Such protocols ensure that non-essential staff are not left vulnerable in times of crisis.

Emergency communications: Non-essential staff often support emergency communication efforts playing a crucial role in disseminating information effectively. Their involvement underscores the importance of clear communication during emergencies.

While there is no specific international law governing the classification and treatment of non-essential staff in embassies and consulates, several international legal frameworks and practices indirectly shape their roles and protections. Though not directly involved in the core functions of diplomacy, non-essential staff are indispensable to the daily operations and success of embassies and consulates, ensuring that essential staff can focus on critical diplomatic duties. Their contributions reflect the broader collaborative efforts that underpin international diplomacy highlighting the complex interplay between international law and diplomatic practice.
Venezuelas Opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez is widely believed to have won the nations election read more

The opposition's presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez shows his ballot as he votes in the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela, Sunday, July 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)

The head of Venezuelas Supreme Court said Edmundo Gonzalez, who insists he beat President Nicolas Maduro in the countrys July 28 election, was in contempt of court after refusing to answer a summons on Wednesday.

Responding to an appeal by Maduro, the court summoned the elections 10 candidates and representatives of the parties that nominated them to attend what it said was a certification of the results.

Pleaselet it be recorded in the minutes that (Gonzalez) did not appear and that he did not comply with the summons, said court president Caryslia Rodriguez.

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Venezuelas electoral authority which the opposition accuses of being biased towards Maduro declared Maduro the winner of the election early on July 29 with around 51 per cent of the vote. But it has yet to produce the voting tallies.

The opposition, led by Maria Corina Machado and Gonzalez, a 74-year-old former diplomat, says it has copies of the voting tallies that show it won the election with more than 7 million votes, compared to Maduros 3.3 million votes. That result is broadly similar to that predicted by independent exit polls.

Numerous Venezuelan opposition leaders have faced arrest and imprisonment or fled into exile in recent years and Rodriguezs comments came shortly after Gonzalez published a letter saying he would be at risk of arrest if he went to the summons.

If I go to the electoral chamber (of the Supreme Court) in these conditions I will be totally vulnerable due to powerlessness and violation of due process and I will put at risk not only my freedom but, more importantly, the will of the Venezuelan people as they expressed on July 28, Gonzalez said in the letter posted on X earlier on Wednesday.

In Venezuela, contempt of court is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines, lawyers said.

Representatives of three groups that supported Gonzalezs candidacy appeared at the hearing, according to a state television broadcast.

Livestreamed raid

The disputed election led to a wave of anti-Maduro protests across Venezuela and advocacy groups have raised alarms over security forces rounding up suspected protesters in the so-called operation knock-knock. Authorities say police are targeting people accused of committing violent crimes during the demonstrations.

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Late on Tuesday, Maria Oropeza, a coordinator for Machados Vente Venezuela political movement, broadcast a raid on her home in Guanare, in Portuguesa state, live on Instagram.

The video appears to show security officers attempting to break down a metal grid at her home entrance and asking her to accompany them. Before the video cut to black, Oropeza could be heard asking to see a warrant.

Oropezas current whereabouts is unknown. Opposition campaign group Comando con Venezuelas chapter in Portuguesa state shared a video of the arrest after it had been broadcast live.

Attorney general Tarek Saab has already launched a criminal probe against Machado and Gonzalez for inciting security forces to break the law, after they published a joint letter calling for police and military to stand with Venezuelas people.

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While Russia and China, among others, have congratulated the socialist Maduro on his win, many Western countries have expressed skepticism and asked the electoral authority to publish a full vote tally.

Chiles leftist President Gabriel Boric rejected Maduros victory on Wednesday, saying he had no doubt Venezuelas government had committed fraud to hold on to power.

That prompted an angry rebuttal from Venezuelan Foreign Minister Ivan Gil, who added that Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan had spoken to Maduro and that Istanbul had congratulated the Venezuelan people on the election.

In a post on X, the Turkish presidency said Turkey will continue to support the dialogue process in Venezuela.
While the Minnesota governor has spoken affectionately about Chinas people, his stance on Chinas leaders, past meeting with the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader exiled by China, and other anti-China moves in the past may open him to criticism from Beijing, according to a report read more

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speak at a campaign rally in Philadelphia, on Tuesday. AP

Democrat presidential nominee Kamal Harris VP pick Tim Walz has a decades old connection with China. While this link may offer valuable insights for Harriss approach to the worlds second-largest economy, it may, at the same time, pose challenges with Beijings leaders and create tensions with Republicans at home.

According to a Bloomberg report, while the Minnesota governor has spoken affectionately about Chinas people, his stance on Chinas leaders, past meeting with the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader exiled by China, and other anti-China moves in the past may open him to criticism from Beijing.

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On the other hand, some of the governors more nuanced takes on the country from his trips could leave him open to Republican attacks during a tight race for the White House at a time when the China relationship is much more confrontational, added the report.

In 1989 and 1990, Walz taught English in Chinas southern Guangdong province. He was the first person on a presidential ticket to have that kind of experience living in the country since George HW Bush, who served as US ambassador in Beijing in the 1970s.

After returning from China in 1990, Walz told a local newspaper, If they had the proper leadership, there are no limits on what they could accomplish.

"If [the Chinese people] 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."



-1990 article on Tim Walz after he returned from teaching in Foshan, China. -Star-Herald pic.twitter.com/DFcrBYFufX  Eric Fish (@ericfish85) August 6, 2024

They are such kind, generous, capable people, he added.

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In a dig at China, Walz, after getting married to Gwen on the fifth anniversary of the deadly 1989 Tiananmen Square military crackdown, told a local newspaper he wanted to have a date hell always remember.

Hes also posted on social media that he had a life-changing lunch with the Dalai Lama.

#tbt to 2 years ago, a life-changing lunch with @DalaiLama. We talked about humility, patience, and compassion. I try to embody these values every day in my work. pic.twitter.com/UnaEyy0GOI  Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) March 15, 2018

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"#tbt to 2 years ago, a life-changing lunch with @DalaiLama. We talked about humility, patience, and compassion. I try to embody these values every day in my work, he had posted in 2018.

His interest in the country has also extended to policy-making, with Walz cosponsoring numerous pieces of legislation in the US House, including the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2017.

Jeffrey Ngo, a former youth activist from Hong Kong, told Bloomberg that Walz was the sole House Democrat to support the bill, having knocked on every door to rally support. Ngo, who met Walz in 2016 with fellow democracy advocate Joshua Wong, praised the congressmans deep understanding of Hong Kong and China issues.

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This guy really knew his stuff, Bloomberg quoted Ngo, now a research fellow at US-based advocacy group Hong Kong Democracy Council, as saying.

Hes rare among members of congress because hes actually been to China so many times, he added.

Walz has also cosponsored several resolutions, including those condemning Chinas censorship of the Tiananmen Square killings in 1989 and expressing concern over the treatment of Falun Gong practitioners.

As soon as Walz made his prominent debut on the national political stage on Tuesday, many on social media scrutinised his extensive history of comments on China, including some that date back decades.

I dont fall into the category that China necessarily needs to be an adversarial relationship, Walz said in a video interview posted in 2016 that focused mainly on agriculture that is now being reposted on X.

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I totally disagree, and I think we need to stand firm, on what theyre doing in the South China Sea. But theres many areas of cooperation that we can work on, he added.

Simultaneously, his views on China have evolved from initial optimism that economic opening would lead to increased political freedoms to frustration over what he perceives as Chinas deteriorating human rights record. His stance largely aligns with the Biden administrations approach, which seeks to compete with Beijing in military and economic arenas while cooperating on issues like climate change and drug trafficking where possible, reported Bloomberg.

I think the idea was, with a free market economy, wed see a more opening of the Chinese grip on  on social life and on human rights," Bloomberg quoted Walz as saying in a congressional hearing in 2016. That simply has not occurred, he added.

According to Bloomberg, citing a Chinese official, Walz take on China is unlikely to impact US policy as American politicians are unified in their hardline views on China.

In Beijings view, every candidate believes untrue and harmful things about China, Bloomberg quoted the official as saying.

Michael Sobolik, a senior fellow at the American Foreign Policy Council and author of Countering Chinas Great Game: A Strategy for American Dominance, told Bloomberg that while China seems to be a personal concern for Walz, this perspective is beneficial only up to a certain extent.

It doesnt fully capture the zero-sum competition between the US and China, he added.

The Chinese people arent Americans enemies, and Walz understands that basic reality  on the other hand, Walz seems overly optimistic, almost Pollyannish, about Washingtons struggle with the Chinese Communist Party, Bloomberg quoted Sobolik as saying.

Like President Biden and Vice President Harris, Walz seems to reject a cold war framing for US-China relations. Thats a bad thing, he added.

I lived in China, Ive been there about 30 times, Walz said back in 2016. But if someone tells you theyre an expert on China theyre probably not telling you the truth, because its a complex country.

With inputs from agencies
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.
A whopping 10 years worth of staff who have worked at McDonald's across the country could be in for some extra cash.

Back in 2016, MBIE audited a bunch of Kiwi companies and found that many - including Macca's - needed to switch up how they handled leave and holiday pay to align with the Holidays Act 2003.

In 2019, Unite Union estimated McDonald's NZ owed upwards of a jaw-dropping $45 million to around 60,000 staff.

If you've clocked in at Macca's anytime between November 1, 2009 and December 6, 2020, it's worth checking if you're owed even just a few bucks.

One of our gals here actually scored herself $74.72!

She worked at her local Macca's between 2016-2017 and wasn't sure if she'd get anything, but after seeing a TikTok and her ex-coworkers sharing their own payouts on social media, she thought: "Okay, surely I get some cash too."

The McDonald's NZ website now confirms: "The fast food chain has got approval from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) to begin remediation relating to annual leave and holiday annual leave pay for employees who worked at McDonald's between November 1 2009 and December 6, 2020."

You just need to have your IRD number on hand for the 'Check My Remediation Payment' on the McDonald's payroll website.

However, McDonald's NZ spokesperson Simon Kenney told Stuff that not everyone who worked there over the last decade will get a payout - But it doesn't hurt to check, right?!
As of May, Colorado became the final state in the country to regulate and require licensure for mortuary science professionals, such as funeral directors.

State lawmakers involved in the legislation and the regulatory agency charged with enforcing it are inviting community members  especially residents who were victimized by funeral home malpractice  to a breakfast where they can learn about the laws and provide further input.

The Funeral Legislation Community Meeting, hosted by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, will take place this from 9:30-11:30 a.m. on Friday at Colorado Mesa Universitys East Ballroom, located in the University Center at 1455 N 12th St.

This is a chance for us to report back to our most vulnerable constituents, those that were victimized by funeral homes, that we heard them, we changed the law, but we also understand that many of them still would like other things done, Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta, said. Hopefully, after weve explained the changes of licensure and requiring continuing education  were looking to hear what the victims have to say (and) what else is on their mind.

Soper said its important to have this meeting in western Colorado because some locals living in and around Montrose were affected by one of the first, largest funeral home scandals the state has seen.

That incident came to light in 2018 when the FBI raided Sunset Mesa Funeral Homes in Montrose. The raid revealed that the two owners had sold the bodies or body parts of at least 222 deceased residents without permission from the families of the deceased. The two sold and shipped as many as 560 deceased locals to body brokers over eight years.

Families of the victims whose bodies were stolen and sold did not receive cremated remains as they paid for. Instead, they were given a combination of concrete powder mix, cat litter and a small portion of random human remains that the owners werent able to sell.

The incident, as well as several similar discoveries in Leadville and Penrose, led to many Coloradans calling for license requirements, oversight and regulation. State legislators responded with Senate Bill 24-173 and House Bill 24-1335, which primarily renewed the regulation of funeral homes as business entities and established licensure requirements for all funeral home professions.

Regulatory rules under the bills will not go into effect until the end of 2024, mostly because those rules havent been finalized yet. To determine and finalize those rules, the Department of Regulatory Agencies will host several stakeholder engagement and rulemaking meetings where the community can provide input on the specifics of regulation.

According to Soper, those rulemaking meetings will begin in about one month; and, Fridays event will instruct attendants on the variety of different ways they can attend or ensure their input is taken into consideration.

Its pretty rare for the executive director of DORA to come to Grand Junction, sit down and have a cup of coffee with victims, family members and community members  alongside legislators  to say, We heard your voices, we changed the law and heres what the law now will be, but what are you guys thinking? Soper said. What are some of your other thoughts? Because we want to make sure that Colorado has good laws that never let people like you become victims again.

The community meeting on Friday is free for the public to attend, and attendees can enjoy complimentary breakfast, snacks and coffee. RSVP online at https://bit.ly/46oqdz3.
Fri Friday

85 /55

Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 50s.
Federal Jury Convicts New York Resident of Acting as a Covert Chinese Agent

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs



Defendant Pretended to Be Opposed to the Chinese Government So He Could Get Close to Prominent Activists Seeking to Bring Democracy, Reform and Human Rights to China

Shujun Wang, 75, a naturalized U.S. citizen of Chinese descent, an academic and author who helped start a pro-democracy organization in Queens, New York, that opposes the current communist regime in the People's Republic of China (PRC), was convicted today on all four counts of an indictment charging him with acting and conspiring to act as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the U.S. Attorney General, criminal use of identification and making false statements to law enforcement.

"This defendant infiltrated a New York-based advocacy group by masquerading as a pro-democracy activist all while covertly collecting and reporting sensitive information about its members to the PRC's intelligence service," said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division. "Today's verdict demonstrates that those who would seek to advance the Chinese government's agenda of transnational repression will be held accountable."

"The indictment could have been the plot of a John LeCarre or Graham Greene spy novel, but the evidence is shockingly real that the defendant led a double life, pretending for years to be an activist for democracy while he was secretly passing information to the Chinese government," said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. "The defendant was a perfect stooge for the PRC, a well-known academic and founder of a pro-democracy organization who was willing to betray those who respected and trusted him. When confronted with his shameful conduct, Wang lied to the FBI, but today's verdict revealed the truth of his crimes and now he will face the consequences."

"This conviction underscores the FBI's commitment to countering espionage schemes by holding those accountable who collect U.S. activist information for the benefit of China," said Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI's National Security Branch. "Any support for transnational repression is unacceptable, and the FBI works diligently with its partners to seek out and bring to justice those who support such activities."

Wang is one of the founders of the pro-democracy Hu Yaobang and Zhao Ziyang Memorial Foundation, an organization located in Flushing, Queens, whose members are well-known pro-democracy dissidents who oppose the current government of the PRC. But instead of promoting democracy in the PRC, Wang, at the direction of PRC government officials, used his position within the Memorial Foundation and his status within the Chinese diaspora community to collect information about prominent activists, academics and dissidents, and reported that information to the PRC government.

According to court documents, since at least 2006, Wang operated under the direction and control of his co-defendants - four officials of China's Ministry of State Security, which is responsible for the PRC's foreign intelligence collection. At the MSS' direction, Wang gathered information on people and groups that the PRC considers subversive, such as Hong Kong democracy protestors, advocates for Taiwanese independence and Uyghur and Tibetan activists, both in the United States and abroad. Wang conducted face-to-face meetings with MSS officials while on trips to the PRC and used an encrypted messaging application to receive taskings from his co-defendants and to send and receive written messages and files.

Wang often memorialized the information he collected in email "diaries" to be accessed by the MSS. These "diaries" included details about Wang's private conversations with prominent dissidents, as well as the activities of pro-democracy activists and human rights organizations. Law enforcement recovered from Wang's residence approximately 163 "diary" entries that he wrote to He, Ji, Li and Lu and other MSS officials. Additionally, in connection with his work for the MSS, Wang possessed telephone numbers and contact information belonging to Chinese dissidents.

Wang made materially false statements to federal law enforcement, falsely denying that he had contacts with PRC officials or the MSS. Over the course of three separate interviews, between 2017 to 2021, Wang repeatedly denied having any contact with individuals from the Chinese intelligence agency. During one of the interviews, in 2019, Wang was interviewed by federal law enforcement agents at John F. Kennedy Internation Airport in Queens, after he returned from China. Wang falsely stated that he had no contact with anyone from the Chinese government and that he had no Chinese government contact information.

The verdict followed a one-week trial. Wang's co-defendants in the espionage and transnational repression scheme, Feng He, Jie Ji, Ming Li and Keqing Lu are MSS officials who remain at large. Wang is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 9, 2025 and faces up to 25 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ellen Sise and Nina Gupta for the Eastern District of New York and Trial Attorney Garrett Coyle of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case.



Topic: National Security

Components: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Security Division (NSD)

USAO - New York, Eastern

Press Release Number: 24-976

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US historian found guilty of working as Chinese spy

The case against Shujun Wang is part of a broader US campaign against China's espionage operations.

By Jane Tang and Tara McKelvey for RFA Investigative 2024.08.06 -- Shujun Wang, a dapper 76-year-old Chinese American author, was found guilty today of espionage after a 7-day trial in federal court that exposed a widespread and elaborate effort by the Chinese government to infiltrate the United States and to influence the public's views of the Chinese Communist Party.

A jury of six men and six women, including three who speak Mandarin Chinese, deliberated for about six hours before finding him guilty of acting as an unregistered agent of a foreign government, making false statements to federal authorities, and using personal contact information of others in a way that assisted in a crime.

He faces up to 25 years in prison. Wang is to be sentenced on Jan. 9, 2025.

Dressed in a dark gray suit with pink pinstripes, Wang closed his eyes as he listened to the verdict through a translating device held to his ear. Outside of court, he continued to express his innocence of the charges.

"This verdict feels unjust to me," Wang told RFA in Chinese as he exited the courthouse. He said he had not yet decided whether to appeal.

When asked about his next steps, he smiled and said that instead of writing a book about the pro-democracy movement, he plans to write one about life in American prisons that he would title "An American Prison Memoir."

"I'm a writer. Writing a book is easy for me," he said.

Wang became a figure of intrigue in the Chinese pro-democracy movement of Flushing, Queens, where he lives, when he was charged with working secretly for China's Ministry of State Security, or MSS, a powerful agency that serves as Beijing's equivalent of the CIA and the FBI.

"The indictment could have been the plot of a spy novel, but the evidence is shockingly real that the defendant was a secret agent for the Chinese government," Breon Peace, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said in a statement after the verdict was announced.

Wang's case is part of a larger drama that has pitted U.S. authorities against China's spy masters. The U.S. attorney's office in Brooklyn has filed charges against dozens of people over the past several years, accusing them of espionage or similar crimes.

In 2023, a former police detective, Michael McMahon, and two other individuals were found guilty of working secretly for the Chinese government and harassing someone in the United States, trying to illegally extradite them to China, where they'd likely be put on trial.

Another criminal case centers on a police outpost for the Chinese government in New York, which U.S. authorities say was used to intimidate and harass Chinese nationals on American soil. Chinese officials say the office provided administrative services for Chinese nationals and helped them take care of paperwork and fill out forms.

Wang's case part of a growing trend

Critics of the Chinese government welcomed the trial against Wang. They said it proved that U.S. authorities were now embarking on a serious effort to fight against China's spy agencies.

Previously, Justice Department officials "were still kind of coming to grips" with the Chinese government's spying, said David Laufman, a former chief of the Justice Department's counterintelligence and export control section.

"Those days are past," said Laufman, who is now with the law firm Wiggin and Dana. "Now, we're seeing case after case being brought."

Chinese government officials have vigorously denied accusations of espionage. "In recent years, the U.S. government and media have frequently hyped up the topic of 'Chinese spies,' many of which later proved to be unfounded," Liu Pengyu, a spokesman for the Chinese Embassy, told RFA.

Prosecutors presented jurors with a staggering amount of evidence, an archive of material that encompassed email, messages, calendars and notebooks showing Wang's years-long relationship with MSS officers.

The evidence also helped to shed light on the day-to-day operations of China's secretive agency.

From the beginning of the trial, Wang's lawyers had their work cut out for them. Wang had initially told FBI agents that he'd had no contact with MSS. Then, he admitted to an undercover agent that he had met with Chinese security officials regularly.

MSS officials Feng He, or Boss He; Jie Ji, Ming Li, or Elder Tang; and Little Li, or Keqing Lu, were also charged with espionage-related crimes. They are presumably in China.

A sometimes faltering defense

Wang's defense team included Kevin Tung, a Mandarin-speaking lawyer, and Zachary Margulis-Ohnuma, a public defender who the court assigned to help with the case on July 2.

Somewhat mysteriously, a man who claimed to be a paralegal was added to Wang's defense team in the trial. Though he gave RFA a pseudonym, court documents identified him as Wentworth Huang Wang, a Florida realtor. The man, who is not related to the defendant, has turned up at several pro-China-related events. Separately, he had just been acquitted of a triple rape in Florida earlier in July.

Shujun Wang's lawyers told the jury that he had wanted to promote democracy and that he'd spoken to the MSS officers so they would know about the advocacy work done in the U.S. He had not meant to do anything wrong, they said.

"He's devoted his life to promoting a free and democratic China through peaceful means," Margulis-Ohnuma said of Wang. "It was for democracy. It was not as an agent of the Chinese government.

"Professor Wang believes in democracy. This is not the story of a double life or betrayal ... or of deception," he added. "In fact, there was nothing secret. This was not the CIA. This is not a James Bond movie."

Margulis-Ohnuma juxtaposed for the jury a movie still of the famous fictional spy wearing a black tuxedo and holding a brandy snifter with a picture of Wang dressed in a loose-fitting, button-up sweater over a yellow T-shirt, waving his arm awkwardly in the air.

Wang, he said, was "a lonely old man who's keeping diaries and writing books."

At various times during the trial, the defense lawyers floundered. Margulis-Ohnuma lost his place during one of his courtroom speeches. Seconds passed, and the room remained silent until he regained his footing.

Another time, Judge Denny Chin, who oversaw the trial, admonished Tung, telling him during the cross-examination of a witness that he had to ask questions rather than present testimony himself.

Wang expressed his own frustration with his attorney in a scene that took place outside the courthouse. The defendant yelled at Tung to talk more forcefully in court about his background as a writer. Wang also attempted to submit 80 pages of additional evidence and to bring in new lawyers, but the judge refused both requests.

"This is an unfair trial," he wrote in a statement he gave to RFA while waiting for the verdict. "I urge the jury to clear the name of Professor Wang, the famous writer."

Wang had been an academic in China in the 1990s and tried to make a name for himself in the United States. He wrote books and established himself as a member of the pro-democracy movement in New York, volunteering for the Hu Yaobang and Zhao Ziyang Memorial Foundation, an organization named after Chinese officials who pushed for government reforms.

Accusations of betrayal

But, the prosecutors argued, Wang began meeting with the MSS officers and giving them information, betraying his friends in the pro-democracy movement. He traveled frequently to China. From 2015 to 2017, he made at least three times a year. At least one of his trips was paid for by the MSS agents.

Then the FBI agents got in touch with him. They met with him on several different occasions, including once at a restaurant in Flushing, and asked him about his contacts with the Chinese security agency. They secretly recorded one of their meetings. Finally, Wang was arrested at his apartment in Flushing.

At the trial, the prosecutors played a tape that showed him trying to delete incriminating messages he had sent to the Chinese agents. The prosecutors said that starting in 2005 and up until his arrest in March 2022, Wang had been leading a double life.

"He portrayed himself as an academic, an activist, a pro-democracy advocate against the Chinese government," said Ellen Sise, one of the prosecutors, during the trial. "In reality, the defendant Wang Shujun acted as an illegal agent of the Chinese government, spying on New Yorkers for years."

Government lawyers called a dozen witnesses, including Anna Yeung-Cheung, the founder of New York for Hong Kong, a pro-democracy group. Her name was included in a notebook Wang had taken to China for his meetings with the MSS officers.

Another of the government witnesses was an undercover agent whose testimony was given without any spectators present to protect their identity. Journalists and others listened from a separate room, straining to hear their voice, piped in through an audio system.

The undercover agent described how they had pretended that they were working for Wang's MSS handler.

"My objective was to gain the truth," the agent said. They spoke about the way that Wang had deleted files on his computer in order to cover his tracks, so that the FBI would not find out about his relationship with the MSS.

Edited by Boer Deng.

Updated to add Wang's sentencing date and comment from Wang and U.S. Attorney Peace.

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.

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U.S. Marines with Littoral Craft Company Charlie complete the Colombian Fluvial Operations Course

US Marine Corps News

5 Aug 2024 | Cpl. Trystan Taft Marine Corps Forces South

Apartado, Colombia -- U.S. Marines with Littoral Craft Company Charlie, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division, graduated from the Colombian Fluvial Operations Course, at Centro Internacional Excelencia Avanzado Fluvial (CIEF), Aug. 2, 2024.

Littoral Craft Company Charlie is the first group of U.S. service members to participate in the Colombian Fluvial Operations Course as 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion is gradually making the switch from Amphibious Assault Vehicles (AAV) to Littoral Craft, which are maneuverable small boats.

"As we enter the infancy of littoral craft training, we are seeking knowledge and training from any and all sources," said U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Lance Sutton, the Inspector-Instructor with LCC Charlie.

The Colombian Marine Corps is highly regarded as world class experts in facilitating and executing littoral exercises because their geography and security challenges heavily emphasize maneuverability and quick reaction on the nation's waterways.

"They are the best in the world at riverine operations and it's a great match for our training," said Sutton.

The Fluvial Operations Course consists of multiple training exercises such as swim qualification, classroom lectures, weapons handling and maintenance, and littoral craft maneuvers.

"We came here and trained with the Colombian Marines on gunnery and piloting littoral crafts," said Sutton. "We learned a lot from them. We hope to take this knowledge back to the United States and implement them into our tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs) and our standard operating procedures (SOPs)."

For the Marines of LCC Charlie, the Fluvial Operations Course was a three-week course. The first week comprised classroom training and familiarization with the different classes of Colombian littoral crafts, the second week comprised isolated training between the gunnery and pilot groups, and the final week comprised integration of all coursework. The Marines of LCC Charlie endured and graduated from the course and are now more knowledgeable and confident in their abilities to maintain, operate, and execute missions with littoral crafts.

Providing expert-level instruction in riverine warfighting was something the Colombian Marines were happy to do.

"For years, the Marines of Colombia have received training from the United States Marine Corps," said Major General Jorge Federico Torres Mora - Commandant of the Colombian Marine Corps, "and I am pleased that we are now able to provide them with this training, demonstrating reciprocity and strengthening our relations as friendly countries."

Teniente Coronel de IM (Colombian Marine Corps Lt. Col.) Juan Pablo Lozano Borrero, Head of the Department of Instruction, Training and Doctrine for the Colombian Marine Corps, said of the training: "It fills us with pride and satisfaction to see the Marines of Colombia and United States training together, complementing each other, as if they were the same force. This means that we are getting closer and increasing interoperability between the two Marine Corps."

The 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion is steadily and efficiently working in accordance with Force Design 2030. With the phasing out of AAVs, Marines of LCC Charlie aim to modernize, compartmentalize and become a more maneuverable and lethal fighting force in order to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving future operating environment.

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Secretary Blinken's Call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Abdelatty

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 Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty to discuss the latest diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions. Secretary Blinken reiterated that all parties should refrain from actions that would escalate the conflict. The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed the importance of continuing work to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza through a deal that would secure the release of hostages, surge humanitarian assistance, alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people, and unlock the possibility of broader regional stability. The Secretary emphasized that finalizing a ceasefire agreement for Gaza is of the highest priority to the United States and thanked the Foreign Minister for Egypt's ongoing efforts to achieve one.





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August 6, 2024

Release

Readout of 19th Annual U.S.-Colombia Defense Bilateral Working Group

Department of Defense Spokesman Lt. Col. Devin T. Robinson provided the following readout:

On July 29-30, 2024, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for Western Hemisphere Affairs Ms. Jana Nelson co-chaired the 19th U.S.-Colombia Defense Bilateral Working Group (DBWG) with Colombian Vice Minister of Defense for Strategy and Planning Luis Edmundo Suarez Soto. The meeting took place at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

U.S. participants included the DASD for Counternarcotics & Stabilization Policy, Jim Saenz; DASD for Arctic & Global Resilience, Iris Ferguson; Director J5 Strategy, Policy, and Plans, U.S. Southern Command, Major General Julian Cheater; Deputy Director, Western Hemisphere Affairs, Joint Staff J5, Strategic Plans and Policy, Brigadier General Greg Krane; Director, Joint Staff, South Carolina National Guard, Brigadier General Robin Stilwell; and representatives from U.S. Embassy Bogota, the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, and the Department of State, Bureau of Political Military Affairs.

The dialogue focused on emergent challenges and threats such as cyber, climate change, and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS); regional security cooperation and defense sector institution building; and strengthening strategic information capacity. The leaders also discussed countering transnational criminal organizations and the Total Peace process. They reaffirmed the importance of adhering to the highest standards of democratic values, the rule of law, and human rights in all aspects of the bilateral defense relationship.

The U.S.-Colombia DBWG, established through a joint agreement in 1999, provides a strategic framework to guide bilateral security cooperation. The forum is a mechanism to discuss strategic-level defense issues and to guide future cooperation activities in the areas of defense and security.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3863656/

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Georgia/Russia: Statement by the High Representative on the 16th anniversary of the aggression against Georgia

European External Action Service (EEAS)

06.08.2024

EEAS Press Team

On 7 August, it will be 16 years since the war between Russia and Georgia began in August 2008. The European Union's commitment to peaceful resolution of the conflicts in Georgia remains firm.

We reiterate our condemnation of Russia's continued military presence in the occupied breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in violation of both international law and of Russia's commitments under the 12 August 2008 six-point agreement. The human rights of conflict-affected communities in Georgia continue to be violated, including through 'borderisation' policies, closures of crossing points and illegal detentions by the Russian military and de facto authorities. Restrictions on freedom of movement must end, violations of human rights must be investigated, and justice must be ensured for all victims.

We remain fully committed to peaceful conflict resolution, including through the European Union's engagement as co-chair in the Geneva International Discussions (GID), through the work of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia, and through the continued presence on the ground of the EU Monitoring Mission (EUMM Georgia). We call on all GID participants to engage constructively in the discussions to achieve the full implementation of the 12 August 2008 six-point agreement.

The European Union reiterates its unwavering support to the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognised borders.

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Russia, US intensify moves as tensions mount in Middle East

Global Times

Moscow, Tehran strengthen interactions amid worrying situation

By Yang Sheng Published: Aug 06, 2024 11:36 PM

While Russia and the US intensify maneuver in the Middle East as tensions between Iran and Israel ramp up due to the assassinations of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu visited Iran and the US increased its military presence.

Analysts said the situation now is truly worrisome with Iran and Israel vowing to strike each other. However, neither Washington nor Moscow wants an escalation, as they have priorities on the Ukraine crisis in Europe and own domestic affairs with no resources to spare.

Russia and Iran's shared position on the multipolar world will promote global stability, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said at a meeting with Shoigu, Russian media TASS reported on Monday. The Iranian president stressed that the era of the US and its allies' hegemony is over.

Shoigu's trip aims to strengthen interactions and examine regional and international issues and bilateral political security relations, according to Iranian media ISNA.

Wang Jin, an associate professor at the Institute of Middle Eastern Studies at Northwest University in Xi'an, said that Russia has long and deep cooperation with Iran and also has a military presence in the region. As Iran has vowed to retaliate against Israel, a new conflict could break out any time, so the two countries have very strong reasons to coordinate.

"If Iran attacks Israel by launching missiles and drones from its own territory or its allies' in the region, those weapons could fly over the area controlled by Russia, so Moscow and Tehran will have necessary intelligence sharing and coordination before Iran takes action," Wang said.

US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) is also setting sail to the Middle East from the Pacific to relieve the carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and its strike group. Meanwhile, the Navy is sending additional ships to the region following "threats from Iran," Pentagon officials announced on Friday.

Although the US is sending more military strength to the region, analysts said that an open Israel-Iran conflict is not in Washington's interest

Liu Zhongmin, a professor at the Middle East Studies Institute of Shanghai International Studies University, said that the US and Russia cannot afford another regional conflict in the Middle East. Liu said that Russia is a major power that carefully handle ties between Iran and Israel, despite its broad military cooperation with Iran, so despite the actions that Washington and Moscow are taking, it will not fuel the flames, but they are aimed at deterring escalation and preventing damage.





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Venezuela: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on post-election developments

Government Offices of Sweden - Ministry for Foreign Affairs

06 August 2024

The European Union continues to follow developments in Venezuela with great concern. Reports from international election observation missions clearly state that the presidential elections on 28th July did not meet international standards of electoral integrity.

Despite its own commitment, the National Electoral Council of Venezuela (CNE) has not yet published the official voting records ("actas") of polling stations. Without evidence to support them, the results published on 2nd August by the CNE cannot be recognised. Any attempt to delay the full publication of the official voting records will only cast further doubt on the credibility of the officially published results.

Copies of the electoral voting records published by the opposition, and reviewed by several independent organisations, indicate that Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia would appear to be the winner of the Presidential elections by a significant majority.

The European Union thus calls for further independent verification of the electoral records, if possible by an internationally reputed entity.

At this critical time, it is important that demonstrations and protests remain peaceful. The European Union calls for calm and restraint. Venezuelan authorities, including security forces, must fully respect human rights, including freedom of expression and of assembly.

The European Union is seriously concerned about the growing number of arbitrary detentions and the continued harassment of the opposition. The European Union calls on Venezuelan authorities to put an end to arbitrary detentions, repression and violent rhetoric against members of the opposition and civil society, and to release all political prisoners.

The European Union welcomes the efforts of regional partners, with whom it remains in close contact, to promote dialogue and a negotiated solution to the crisis.

Respecting the will of the Venezuelan people remains the only way for Venezuela to restore democracy and to solve the current humanitarian and socio-economic crisis.

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Hamas suspends talks with Israel after Haniyeh assassination

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 6, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- An informed source with Hamas has said that the Palestinian resistance group has suspended the indirect negotiations with the Israeli Zionist regime after the assassination of its top leader Ismail Haniyeh.

The source, who insisted on anonymity, has said that the talks have been stopped until further notice, Alquds Alarabi Newspaper reported on Tuesday.

Noting that Hamas is under Arab and international pressure to resume negotiations, the source stressed that the group will not surrender under pressure.

The source added that Hamas showed much flexibility in previous talks so as to help an end to the war, but Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed all the agreements and diplomatic efforts.

The source stressed that Netanyahu seeks to keep its political position even if it comes at a high cost and prolonging the war in the Gaza Strip.

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Assassination of resistance leaders only added to Israel's woes: Nasrallah

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 6, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The secretary general of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement says the recent assassination of resistance leaders has only added to the Israeli regime's woes, fueling an increase in anti-Zionist operations in the West Bank and a reverse migration from the occupied territories amid fears of retaliation from Iran and Hezbollah.

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah made the remarks in a televised speech on Tuesday seven days after Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah commander, was assassinated in an Israeli strike in Beirut last Tuesday.

He said Shukr was a man of action and a key figure in all major battles of the resistance, adding that targeting Hezbollah leaders will not weaken the movement's resolve to continue their path.

Nasrallah also addressed the assassination in Tehran of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, less than a day after Shukr was killed in Beirut.

He acknowledged that while the recent assassinations are considered a tactical achievement for the Israeli regime, they will not alter the fundamental nature of the Resistance Front.

The Hezbollah chief declared that today's central battlefield of resistance is Palestine and the Gaza Strip, with other supportive fronts backing their fight against the Israeli occupation.

Nasrallah noted that the recent developments have shed light on the true objectives of the extremist cabinet of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pointing out that Netanyahu does not seek to end the war in Gaza, as evidenced by his insistence on adding conditions to any ceasefire proposal.

The Israeli prime minister, he said, wants to uproot the Palestinians from their homes and "establish total security control" over the besieged enclave.

He also warned that the Israeli regime is attempting to forcefully displace Palestinians from the West Bank, aiming to push them into Jordan and formally annex the territory into the occupied lands.

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Iran will give 'decisive response' to Haniyeh's assassination: Acting FM

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 6, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani has reiterated that the Islamic Republic will deliver a "decisive response" to the Israeli crime of assassinating Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas's political leader, on Iranian soil.

Bagheri made the remarks as he visited Hamas' office in Tehran on Monday evening, where he met with Khaled Qaddoumi, the group's representative to Iran, and paid tribute to Haniyeh, who was assassinated in an Israeli operation in Tehran last week.

The Iranian diplomat said that Haniyeh's martyrdom, while a significant loss for the resistance movement, has ultimately strengthened the resistance front across the region.

Bagheri asserted that Iran, in accordance with international law, reserves the right to take appropriate measures to defend its national security and sovereignty by responding to this act of aggression on its soil.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran will give a decisive and effective response to this criminal act by the Zionist regime," he said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Bagheri appeared before the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission of the Iranian Parliament to brief lawmakers on measures Tehran was taking to respond to the Israeli aggression.

Ebrahim Rezaei, the commission's spokesman, told reporters that Bagheri had assured lawmakers that the Foreign Ministry would use all political, legal, and public diplomacy resources at its disposal to pursue Haniyeh's assassination at the international level.

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Hezbollah entitled to respond to Israeli aggression: Lebanon parl. speaker

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 6, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has expressed all-out support for Hezbollah, stressing that the Lebanese resistance movement is entitled to respond to the Israeli regime's aggression.

In an interview with a Lebanese newspaper on Tuesday, Berri underlined that unity at the highest level among the Lebanese can immunize the country in the current critical situation against the threats from Israel.

Resistance has been faithful to the rules of conflicts while Israel has deliberately violated the regulations by targeting civilians and attacking the Lebanese residential areas, he noted.

Berri had said earlier that what is happening in Gaza is "shame to humanity", calling for pressure on Israeli officials to end their continued aggression against Gaza and Lebanon, bring about stability the region, and prevent the start of a regional war.

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Erdogan: Turkiye to join South Africa's genocide case against Israel at ICJ

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 6, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Turkiye is to join South Africa's genocide case against the Zionist regime in the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

"Our parliamentary legal team will submit our petition to join the genocide case against Israel to the International Court of Justice in The Hague" on Wednesday, Erdogan was quoted by Turkish media as saying on Monday.

"No matter what atrocities this bloodthirsty genocide network commits, it won't stop Turkiye or the Turkish people from standing in solidarity with the Palestinians," he added.

He noted that Turkiye is doing everything in its power to end as soon as possible the "barbarism" that has claimed the lives of 40,000 innocents in Gaza over the past 10 months.

"No hopeful outcome emerged from the ceasefire talks. Despite Hamas's constructive stance, the Netanyahu administration has repeatedly demonstrated its intention to continue its policy of massacres," he stated.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also announced on Monday night that the country joins South Africa's complaint against the Zionist regime in the ICJ and that the allies of this regime should take responsibility.

Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas chief, was martyred in a "cowardly assassination by the Zionist regime, and we learned that the Israeli regime that Netanyahu does not want a truce," he added.

The ICJ is the highest UN judicial body, established in 1945 to resolve disputes between states. Its recent emergency order for the Israeli regime to immediately stop its Rafah attack was a landmark ruling, following South Africa's filing of the genocide case against the Tel Aviv regime.

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NATO-funded project to reroute internet to space in case of disruption to critical infrastructure

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

31 Jul. 2024

Last updated: 06 Aug. 2024

A new NATO-funded initiative aims to make the internet less vulnerable to disruption by rerouting the flow of information into space in the event that undersea cables are attacked or accidentally severed. The $2.5 million project, launched on 31 July 2024, was partially funded by NATO's Science for Peace and Security programme (SPS).

"Through this SPS-supported project, NATO is bringing together Allies, prominent institutions including the Cornell, John Hopkins and Swedish Defence Universities and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology as well as telecommunications companies to address the urgent need for a more resilient internet infrastructure worldwide," said Dr Eyup Turmus, SPS Advisor and Programme Manager at NATO.

The project aims to produce a working prototype within two years, with a demonstration planned at the Blekinge Institute of Technology, a NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) Maritime Research Centre in Sweden. The Hybrid Space/Submarine Architecture Ensuring Infosec of Telecommunications (HEIST) consortium leading the project aims to develop a hybrid network combining submarine cables and satellite communications to ensure a continuous flow of data. It will bring together existing technologies, address legal and jurisdictional challenges, and foster international collaboration between NATO Allies and partners, including the US, Iceland, Sweden and Switzerland.

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BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged further efforts to preserve the country's cultural and natural treasures and renew their glamour in the new era.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in an instruction on strengthening the protection, preservation and utilization of cultural and natural heritage.

The instruction was made after one cultural heritage and two natural heritages of China were inscribed on the World Heritage List by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in July 2024.

UNESCO announced the inscription of Beijing Central Axis: A Building Ensemble Exhibiting the Ideal Order of the Chinese Capital, Badain Jaran Desert -- Towers of Sand, and Lakes, and Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of Yellow Sea-Bohai Gulf of China (Phase II) on its list at the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi, India.

The inclusion of these heritage items has positive significance for the building of Chinese modernization that features material and cultural-ethical advancement and harmony between humanity and nature, Xi said, noting that it also adds new luster to world civilizations.

Xi called for efforts to take this UNESCO inclusion as an opportunity to further strengthen the comprehensive and systematic protection of cultural and natural heritage and make good use of them to better meet the people's needs.

He also urged enhanced international exchange and cooperation in this field, and efforts to make greater contribution to the practice of the Global Civilization Initiative and the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

Currently, China is home to a total of 59 World Heritage Sites.
PH Navy monitoring China 'monster ship' in Sabina Shoal

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno

August 6, 2024, 3:30 pm

MANILA -- The Philippines is keeping a close watch on the China Coast Guard (CCG) "monster ship" which has been spotted in Sabina (Escoda) Shoal, a ranking official said Tuesday.

In a press briefing, Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, however, clarified that they are not engaged in a standoff.

"What happened is that because of our monitoring of the unusual pile up of crushed corals, the Philippine government deployed a ship to monitor the activity there. Its presence is longer than the usual presence that we do and the other side, the CCG also deployed their monster ship (with bow number 5901)," he said.

The ship was spotted July 30.

"So we're watching them, they are watching us," Trinidad said.

Sabina Shoal, a coral reef formation, lies 75 nautical miles away or 140 km off the province of Palawan.

Trinidad also dismissed talks that Sabina Shoal is the new flashpoint in the WPS, adding that the source of tensions has always been the "illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive actions of the Chinese Communist Party."

He added that they increased their presence in Sabina Shoal to ensure that the pile of crushed corals found in April is not man-made.

Aside from the CCG giant ship, Trinidad said they have monitored the presence of a Chinese survey ship for the past 10 days.

As per the Navy tracking, it came from Mischief Reef 10 days ago.

Upon checking with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trinidad said the vessel does not have a survey request.

"It has sailed through areas within Sabina Shoal and the southern part of Sabina Shoal," he said.

Trinidad said they are leaving it to appropriate government agencies on how to deal with hydrographic surveys or marine scientific research within the country's exclusive economic zone, noting that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea does not mention anything about this and coastal states have different practices on the matter. (PNA)

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2 Mindoro rebels convicted of illegal possession of firearms

Philippine News Agency

By Benjamin Pulta

August 6, 2024, 12:38 pm

MANILA -- The Department of Justice Task Force on Counter-Terrorism I (DOJ-TFCT 1) on Tuesday announced a court ruling convicting two members of the Communist Party of Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) operating in Oriental Mindoro for illegal possession of firearms.

In a new release, the DOJ-TFCT 1 said the Roxas, Mindoro Oriental Regional Trial Court Branch 43, in a decision promulgated on July 9, found Arnulfo Aumentado (a.k.a. Aryo/Inod) and Mary Joyce Lizada (a.k.a. Louise) guilty beyond reasonable doubt of unauthorized issuance of authority to carry firearm and ammunition outside of residence and illegal transfer/registration of firearms.

The Court sentenced both to one year for each crime.

"The period within which they are detained shall be credited in full should they abide by and follow the rules and regulations of the institution where they are continuously detained," the Court said.

On April 26, 2023, Philippine Army soldiers apprehended Aumentado and Lizada in Barangay Santa Teresita, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro.

Recovered from them were one carbine rifle, a chamber-loaded Intratec submachine gun, one improvised hand grenade and two blasting caps.

Both initially pleaded not guilty but with the guidance of their legal counsel, eventually entered into a plea-bargain agreement.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla hailed the DOJ TFCT team, led by Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Peter Ong, for prosecuting the case which led to the conviction.

"Terrorism must have no place in society, especially under the present administration's rule, where peace and unity reigns supreme over violence or hatred," Remulla said in a statement.

"As highlighted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his State of the Nation Address, that extermination was never part of the administration's drug war, it is but also fair to extend the same policy in the government's battle against terrorism where justice rules above meaningless fighting." (PNA)

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Hamas says Yahya Sinwar replaces martyred Ismail Haniyeh as its political leader

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 6:25 PM

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas says it has selected Gaza-based Commander Yahya Sinwar as the new political leader of the group after Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in an Israeli attack in the Iranian capital of Tehran.

In a statement on Tuesday, Hamas announced "the selection of Commander Yahya Sinwar as head of the movement's political bureau, succeeding the martyred leader Ismail Haniyeh, may Allah have mercy on him."

Haniyeh was assassinated in an attack on his residence in the early hours of July 31, in the Iranian capital Tehran, where he had attended the swearing-in ceremony of Iran's newly-elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian, a day earlier.

He was the second high-profile Hamas leader to be assassinated by Israel since Operation Al-Aqsa Storm on October 7, 2023, after Salah al-Arouri's assassination in southern Beirut on January 2.

The Islamic Republic declared three days of national mourning for the loss of the Palestinian resistance leader, vowing a harsh response to punish the occupying entity.

Sinwar, a high-ranking Hamas military commander, became the leader of Hamas in the besieged Gaza Strip in February 2017, taking over from Haniyeh.

He was a key architect of the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm that Hamas launched against the occupying regime in response to its decades-long campaign of oppression and devastation against Palestinians.

Sinwar, 61, is also among the top Hamas targets sought by the Israeli regime, which has put a $400,000 bounty on his head following the October 7 operation.

Osama Hamdan, a senior Hamas official, said the election of Sinwar as a political leader was a unanimous decision by the movement's leadership.

The selection of Sinwar shows the dynamic nature of Hamas and reflects an understanding of where the movement is headed.

It also sends a clear message, he said, that Hamas has chosen a leader who has been a custodian of jihad and struggle on the battlefield in Gaza for over 300 days.

Hamdan pointed out that the team responsible for negotiating with mediators on a potential ceasefire in Gaza, which was led by Haniyeh, will now be led by Sinwar.

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Israel fearful of Iran, Hezbollah response to assassinations: Nasrallah

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 5:31 PM

The secretary general of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement says the Western countries' aid to Israel indicates that the occupying regime is incapable of defending itself and is fearful of Iran and the resistance's response to recent assassinations in the region.

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah made the remarks in a televised speech on Tuesday to commemorate top-ranking Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr, who was assassinated in an Israeli airstrike in the suburbs of southern Beirut last week.

Nasrallah went on to say that the West's delivery of arms to defend Israel against the resistance's retaliatory attacks demonstrates Tel Aviv's incapability to defend itself.

"Israel is not as strong as it was before this war, and its prestige and military capability are no longer as they were," he said.

Less than a day after assassinating Shukr in Beirut, Israel assassinated o Hamas's Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh in the Iranian capital, Tehran. The back-to-back targeted killings pushed the region to the brink, with Iran and Hezbollah vowing a harsh punishment for the Israeli regime.

The Hezbollah chief noted that Israel is highly anxious about Iran and Hezbollah's imminent attacks in response to the assassinations, adding that this is the reason why it is asking the United States and Western countries to defend it.

He said targeting Hezbollah leaders will not weaken the movement's resolve to continue its path, underlining that the recent assassinations will not alter the fundamental nature of the resistance front either.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Nasrallah said the recent developments show the true goal of Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet is uprooting Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.

He said Netanyahu does not want a ceasefire in Gaza and seeks to "establish total security control" over the blockaded territory.

He also warned that the Israeli regime seeks to annex the occupied West Bank and expel Palestinians from there, calling on regional countries to wake up to the danger of Zionism.

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19 injured as Hezbollah fires 'swarm of drones' at Israeli targets

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 5:06 PM

Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah says its fighters have fired a "swarm of drones" in northern occupied territories in retaliation for Israel's attacks on Lebanon.

Hezbollah said in a statement on Tuesday that it launched an air attack "with a squadron of suicide drones that targeted," two Israeli military positions in Nahariya, the northernmost coastal city.

The drone attack, it said, was a response to an air strike on the southern village of Ebba on Monday.

Hezbollah also said four Lebanese fighters were killed in Israeli airstrikes on an area near the southern city of Nabatiyeh. No further details provided.

Israel's medical officials said 19 people were evacuated to hospital in Nahariya, one in critical condition.

And the regime's military acknowledged that "a number of drones" were fired toward its positions on Tuesday, but they could intercepted only one of a number of aerial vehicles.

According to military experts, the reason that Israel's Iron Dome wasn't able to track except for one drone does reflect the fact that the Lebanese resistance movement is growing more capable.

Following Hezbollah drone attacks and prior to a televised speech by Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, Israeli warplanes broke the sound barrier for several times by frying "at very low altitude," over the capital city and a number of other areas.

The warplanes caused such loud booms that sent people in the city running for cover. They said booms were the loudest heard in Beirut in years.

Later in his speech, Nasrallah said that the sonic booms were intended to provoke those gathered for the memorial of Hezbollah's top-ranking military commander, Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike on a building in the southern Beirut suburb of Dahieh on July 30.

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Haniyeh's assassination cemented resistance front in region, says Iran's acting FM

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 2:26 PM

Iran's Interim Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani says the martyrdom of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, has strengthened the resistance front in Palestine and across the region.

"While Mr. Haniyeh's martyrdom is a loss for the resistance, it has strengthened the resistance front in Palestine and the region. The entire Islamic world condemned this criminal assassination," he said on Tuesday as he visited the office of Hamas in Tehran.

Bagheri paid tribute to Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran on Wednesday in an operation designed and carried out by the Israeli regime. He said Haniyeh's martyrdom on Iranian soil has further strengthened the "bond and solidarity" between the Palestinians and the Iranian nation.

He noted that Haniyeh was a "child of resistance" whose many scarifies helped reinforce the Palestinian cause.

"The message from the martyrdom and the grand public funeral of Haniyeh in Tehran is that we and you are one, and this solidarity in resistance against occupation and aggression is stronger than ever," the top diplomat added.

Noting that Haniyeh's assassination on Iranian soil was a blatant violation of international laws, he asserted that Iran reserves the right to respond to this act of aggression in defense of its "national security and sovereignty" and to ensure peace and stability in the region.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran will give a decisive and effective response to this criminal act by the Zionist regime," he said.

Bagheri further emphasized that Iran will leverage all legal, political, and media resources at its disposal to safeguard the country's rights and national interests in this matter.

These efforts, he said, include a request for emergency meetings of the United Nations Security Council and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation as well as diplomatic consultations with foreign countries to clarify Iran's position.

Bagheri assured Hamas that the "flag of freedom" raised by the Palestinian people will remain aloft, promising that the Iranian government and nation will spare no effort in supporting the Palestinian cause because "our cause and goal is one and the same."

"This is a testament to the dignity and struggle of our fighters, and hopefully, this Islamic awakening will lead to the destruction of Israel," he said.

During the visit, Khaled Qaddoumi, Hamas's representative in Iran, expressed gratitude for the Islamic Republic's support for the Palestinian resistance, especially over the loss of their political leader.

He emphasized that "Gaza is a symbol of humanity," noting how global solidarity and support for the Palestinian people has increased since the war on Gaza began.

He cited widespread protests in the United States and the West, where even Jews have openly declared that Israel does not represent them.

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West has lost 'dignity' in Gaza genocidal campaign by backing Israel: Iran

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 1:58 PM

Iran says the Western camp has lost its "dignity and honor" in the campaign of death, destruction and genocide in the besieged Gaza Strip given its unqualified assistance to Israel.

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kan'ani made the remarks in a post on X on Tuesday, where he condemned the West's double standards on the issues of terrorism and human rights.

"In the terminology of the US and Europe, any people and groups who defend their land against foreign occupation forces and fight to defend their homes, families and human dignity against an invading army armed to the teeth and murderers of children and women are considered terrorists."

"Any party who supports an oppressed nation under occupation is considered sponsor of terrorism."

However, he said, the West not only refrains from designating Israel as terrorist, but it praises and provides the regime with all kinds of political, security, and military assistance.

"The West has lost its integrity and honor in the war on Gaza and has suffered from ethical collapse and civilizational decline," Kan'ani stated.

Since October, Israel has killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza. A considerably large number of the people have been women and children.

Washington has supplied the regime with more than 10,000 tons of military equipment.

Germany's lethal arms exports have also seen a tenfold increase since.

Other military exporters include France, Britain, Canada and Australia.

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Ex-Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia released after Hasina's escape

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 11:26 AM

Bangladesh's ex-prime minister Khaleda Zia has been released from years of house arrest, just hours after her political adversary, Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power and fled the country.

A.K.M Wahiduzzaman, a spokesman for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Tuesday confirmed that "she is now free," just one day after military authorities issued orders for her release.

In a statement released on Monday, Bangladesh president's press team announced that a meeting chaired by Mohammad Shahabuddin reached a unanimous decision to grant immediate freedom to Begum Khaleda Zia, chairperson of the BNP.

"The meeting has also decided to free all the people who have been arrested during the student protests," the president's statement added.

A deep-seated rivalry exists between her and Hasina, with accusations surfacing that she misappropriated approximately $250,000 in donations intended for an orphanage trust.

The BNP contends that these charges are concocted to sideline Zia from the political arena, a claim that Hasina's administration has firmly rejected.

Khaleda, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party began her political journey commenced following the assassination of her husband, Ziaur Rahman, who served as President of Bangladesh from 1977 until 1981 and established the BNP in 1978.

She was the first women to serve as prime minister in Bangladesh from 1991to 1996 and again from 2001 to 2006.

Khaleda replaced the presidential system with a parliamentary form of government so that power rested with the prime minister, lifted restrictions on foreign investment and made primary education compulsory and free.

The release of Khaleda Zia marks a significant development in Bangladesh's political landscape, following the resignation and departure of Sheikh Hasina who fled to India.

The decision reflects ongoing political tensions and the need for stability in the country.

The military has taken power in Bangladesh after Hasina resignation as the army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced on Monday afternoon that the military would form an interim government and that a curfew would be lifted.

"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.

At least 366 people died and more than 2,000 people had been arrested since last month during deadly street protests over a government job quota that reserved over half of all government jobs for certain groups. The unrest later escalated into wider calls for the resignation of Hasina.

Millions of Bangladeshis took to the streets of the capital Dhaka on Monday to celebrate the resignation of Hasina. However, the festivities were marred by violence, with protesters carrying out revenge attacks on Hasina's allies, storming parliament and setting fire to multiple buildings, including television stations.

Bangladesh has a long history of political upheaval and coups.

In 2007, the military staged a coup after widespread political unrest and backed a caretaker government that ruled the country for two years until Hasina took power.

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Iran to use all capacities to respond to Haniyeh assassination; US has 'undeniable' role: Judiciary

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 11:10 AM

Iran's Judiciary says the United States is liable for prosecution as it has played an "undeniable role" in supporting and leading Israel which is engaged in acts of terror and mischief.

Asghar Jahangir, the Judiciary spokesman, made the remarks on Tuesday, almost one week after Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political bureau of the Palestinian Hamas resistance group, was assassinated in the Iranian capital Tehran.

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says the assassination was designed and executed by Israel, with support from the US administration.

Haniyeh's assassination in Tehran followed another assassination by the Zionist regime that claimed the life of Fuad Shukr, a senior commander of the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah, in Beirut.

Israel's terrorist acts come at a time when the occupying regime is waging a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip, which has killed 39,623 Palestinians, mostly women and children, in the past 10 months.

Jahangir said Haniyeh and Shukr were martyred in "desperate and brutal" operations by Israel's fake and ominous regime, whose survival hinges on "organized assassinations and great acts of mischief against oppressed people."

"The US's role in supporting and leading this evil regime is undeniable, and it provides the ground for legal and criminal prosecution of the government [in Washington] in international bodies," he asserted.

The spokesman further emphasized that the Islamic Republic will utilize all its domestic and international capacities to respond to Haniyeh's assassination.

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Aug 5: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 11:01 AM

By Press TV Website Staff

Amid Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed more than 39,600 Palestinians so far, the majority of them children, resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against the Tel Aviv regime and its Western backers.

The major operations carried out by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Monday, August 5, are as follows:

Al-Qassam Brigades' operations on August 5:

In a complex ambush in the Tal Al-Sultan neighborhood west of Rafah city, targeted four Israeli military Merkava tanks with Al-Yassin 105 shells, as well as an "M113" personnel carrier with a guerrilla explosive device and an Al-Yassin 105 shell.

Detonated the entrance of a booby-trapped tunnel in an Israeli military engineering force in the Zalata area east of Rafah city in the southern Gaza Strip.

Targeted with mortar shells Israeli soldiers and military vehicles on the supply line in the "Netzarim" axis.

Detonated an anti-personnel Ra'adiya explosive device on an Israeli infantry force next to an armored personnel carrier in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood, south of Gaza City.

Targeted a D9 military bulldozer with an Al-Yassin 105 shell east of the Al-Farahin area, east of the city of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip.

Targeted an Israeli infantry force of nine soldiers at point-blank range in east of the Al-Farahin area, east of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip.

Detonated two anti-personnel and anti-vehicle explosive devices on an engineering force in the Zalata area east of the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.

Detonated an anti-personnel device against an Israeli force fortified inside a building east of the Farahin area, east of the city of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip.

Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades' operations on August 5:

Engaged in fierce clashes with Israeli forces in the areas of incursion into Jenin, occupied West Bank, with machine guns and explosive devices.

Targeted the positions of Israeli soldiers and their military vehicles around the Rafah crossing with heavy mortar shells.

In a joint operation with the Mujahideen Brigades, bombarded the settlement of "Re'im" with a rocket barrage.

Targeted a group of Israeli soldiers and military vehicles with a barrage of heavy mortar shells on the eastern Rafah axis in the southern Gaza Strip.

Al-Quds Brigades' operations on August 5:

Targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and military vehicles with mortar shells on the supply line in the "Netzarim" axis.

Targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and military vehicles on the advance axes and around the Rafah crossing with a barrage of heavy mortar shells.

Mujahideen Brigades' operations on August 5:

In a joint operation with the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades, targeted the settlement of "Re'im" with a rocket barrage.

Martyr Omar Al-Qasim Forces' operations on August 5:

Targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and military vehicles infiltrating the vicinity of Rafah crossing with heavy-caliber mortar shells.

Hezbollah's operations on August 5:

The headquarters of the newly established 91st Division in the Elite Barracks was targeted with a barrage of drones.

The Al-Malikiyya site was targeted with a drone.

Ramim site was targeted with artillery shells.

Zar'it site was targeted with artillery shells.

Ras al-Naqoura naval site was targeted with heavy artillery shells.

Israeli artillery positions in Khirbet Ma'ar were targeted with rockets.

Zabadin site in Lebanon's Shebaa were targeted with artillery shells.

The Mount Neria base was targeted with drones.

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Aug 4: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 10:57 AM

By Press TV Website Staff

Amid Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed nearly 39,600 Palestinians so far, the majority of them children, resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against the Tel Aviv regime and its Western backers.

The major operations carried out by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Sunday, August 4, are as follows:

Al-Qassam Brigades' operations on August 4:

Launched a barrage of rockets toward "Gan Yavne" and Asdod settlements in response to the massacres committed against the Palestinian people and resistance leaders.

Al-Quds Brigades' operations on August 4:

In a joint operation with the Martyr Omar Al-Qasim Forces, targeted the "Nahal Oz" site and the "Beeri" settlement with a barrage of rockets.

Sniped an Israeli soldier near the Community College in Tal Al-Hawa neighborhood, southwest of Gaza City.

Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades' operations on August 4:

Targeted Israeli military gatherings and a convoy of military vehicles positioned on the "Netzarim" axis with two 107mm rockets.

Targeted Israeli military gatherings stationed in the vicinity of the Rafah crossing, southern Gaza Strip, with two 107mm rockets.

In a joint operation with the Martyr Omar Al-Qasim Forces, targeted the supply line of the Israeli forces in the "Netzarim" axis with heavy-caliber mortar shells.

Martyr Omar Al-Qasim Forces' operations on August 4:

Targeted the "Nahal Oz" site and "Beeri" settlement with a rocket barrage in a joint operation with Al-Quds Brigades.

In a joint operation with the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades, targeted the supply line of the Israeli forces in the "Netzarim" axis with heavy-caliber mortar shells.

Al-Nasser Salah Al-Din Brigades' operations on August 4

Targeted the Israeli military site of "Kissufim" east of the central governorate with 107mm rockets.

Hezbollah's operations on August 4:

Beit Hillel settlement was targeted for the first time with Katyusha rockets.

Surveillance equipment at the Ramia site was targeted with appropriate weapons.

The Birkat Risha site was targeted with artillery shells.

The Al-Manara site was targeted with a barrage of missiles.

The Al-Malikiyah site was targeted with artillery shells.

Military building in the Al-Manara settlement was targeted with appropriate weapons.

Yemeni military's operations on August 4:

Downed an American MQ9 drone while it was carrying hostile acts in the airspace of Saada Governorate with a locally-made surface-to-air missile.

Targeted the Groton ship in the Gulf of Aden with a barrage of ballistic missiles for not complying with the ban on entry to ports of occupied Palestinian territories.

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Lebanon: Israel escalatory actions could trigger all-out war; Hezbollah 'entitled' to retaliation

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 10:53 AM

Lebanon's Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib has warned that Israel's escalatory actions could trigger an all-out war in the West Asia region.

Bou Habib urged the United Nations to "intensify its efforts to stop the Israeli aggression against Lebanon and to spare the region from sliding into a whirlpool of retaliatory responses" that could lead to the outbreak of an all-out regional war.

He made the remarks at a meeting with Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the UN special coordinator for Lebanon, on Monday.

Bou Habib also reiterated Lebanon's commitment to the full and comprehensive implementation of UNSC Resolution 1701, stressing that it's "the only solution to bring calm to southern Lebanon."

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 Arab country since the beginning of the Gaza onslaught, the regime assassinated Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah military commander and an advisor to the movement's Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in an Israeli strike against a building in a suburb of Beirut on Tuesday.

The movement has vowed to keep up its retaliatory operations as long as the Tel Aviv regime continues its onslaught on Gaza that has so far killed 39,623 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 91,469 others.

'Hezbollah has right to respond to Israeli aggression'

Meanwhile, Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri was cited by al-Joumhouria newspaper as saying on Tuesday that Hezbollah has the right to respond to the Israeli aggression, noting that the regime has been deliberately violating the rules of engagement by targeting civilians and areas deep inside the Lebanese territories.

Berri added that the current "sensitive" situation requires "the highest level of unity" among Lebanese people in order to protect the country against the Israeli threats.

Earlier, Berri had noted that "in response to any Israeli aggression against Lebanon, we will be ... on the frontlines, like Amal and Hezbollah [movements] to confront it."

Hezbollah officials have repeatedly said they do not want a war with Israel, while stressing that they are prepared in case it occurs.

Two Israeli wars waged against Lebanon in 2000 and 2006 were met with strong resistance from Hezbollah, resulting in the retreat of the regime in both conflicts.

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Bangladesh under control of military after Hasina resigns, flees

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 8:12 AM

The military has taken power in Bangladesh after longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and flee following deadly protests.

The military was in control of the country on Tuesday as the army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced on Monday afternoon that the military would form an interim government and that a curfew would be lifted.

"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.

He made the remarks shortly after the 76-year-old Hasina was forced to resign following 15 years in power, and fled by helicopter.

Indian media said Hasina had landed at a military airbase near New Delhi.

Her resignation came after millions of people took to the streets over the past month demanding she step down.

The protests began in early July against a quota system that reserved over half of all government jobs for certain groups. The unrest later escalated into wider calls for the resignation of Hasina.

At least 366 people died and thousands of people were arrested as security forces sought to quell the unrest.

Late Monday, Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin ordered the release of those detained in the protests, as well as Khaleda Zia, former prime minister and the key opposition leader who was jailed by her Hasina for graft in 2018.

Millions of Bangladeshis flooded the streets of the capital Dhaka to celebrate Hasina's resignation.

But there were also scenes of anger and acts of violence, with protesters carrying out revenge attacks on Hasina's allies.

They also stormed parliament and torched several buildings, including TV stations.

The violence that took place on Monday left least 66 people dead, according to police.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for calm and restraint by all sides.

Guterres stressed the importance of a "peaceful, orderly and democratic transition," UN deputy spokesperson, Farhan Haq, said in a statement.

Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Washington-based Wilson Center, warned that the prime minister's departure "would leave a major vacuum" and that the country was in "uncharted territory."

"The coming days are critical," he added.

Bangladesh has a long history of political upheaval and coups.

In 2007, the military staged a coup after widespread political unrest and backed a caretaker government that ruled the country for two years until Hasina took power.

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Hezbollah hits Israeli military positions in occupied territories with combat drones

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 6:30 AM

Fighters from the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah have conducted a series of operations, targeting various Israeli military positions in the northern part of the 1948 occupied territories with combat drones.

Hezbollah said in a statement that it struck the Mount Neria base, which currently serves as the headquarters of the Israeli military's Golani Division, with a number of explosive-laden drones at around 7:00 p.m. local time (1600 GMT) on Monday.

The statement added that the aerial attack hit buildings housing Israeli soldiers and officers, leaving casualties in the targeted area.

Hezbollah stressed that the operation was conducted in retaliation for Israeli strikes on southern Lebanese regions, especially a deadly attack on Mays al-Jabal village.

Earlier, Hezbollah combat drones had struck the newly established headquarters of the Israeli army's 91st Division in the Ayelet barracks, inflicting several casualties on soldiers stationed there.

Lebanese resistance fighters also shelled the Israeli Zebdine barracks in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms with artillery rounds, hitting it directly.

Moreover, Hezbollah targeted artillery bunkers at the Khirbet Ma'ar military base with salvos of rockets.

The group also pummeled several other Israeli sites, including the Ras al-Naqoura site, the Zarit barracks, the Ramim barracks, and Karantina Hill near the Hadab Yaron site.

Sirens sounded in at least a dozen illegal Israeli settlements over an area of about 180 square kilometers from Kfar Giladi kibbutz in the Galilee Panhandle region to Ayelet HaShahar kibbutz at northern sector of the 1948 occupied lands.

The area houses several strategic Israeli military installations, including the headquarters of the Sahel Battalion in the Beit Hillel barracks, the headquarters of the 769th Brigade in the Kiryat Shmona barracks, the Ramot Naftali barracks and the Yiftah barracks, where so-called Iron Dome missile systems are deployed.

Hezbollah member killed in Israeli airstrike in south Lebanon

Meanwhile, a Hezbollah resistance fighter was killed and another wounded on Monday afternoon in an Israeli airstrike targeting a motorcycle in the village of Ebba in southern Lebanon.

Lebanese military sources, who requested anonymity, said that an Israeli drone fired two air-to-ground missiles at the motorcycle, killing the driver identified as Ali Jawad Badreddine and wounding his companion.

According to the sources, Israeli drones and warplanes conducted seven airstrikes on four villages and towns in southern Lebanon, while Israeli artillery units fired 20 shells on four villages and towns in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah and Israel have been exchanging deadly fire since early October last year, shortly after the regime launched a genocidal war against the Gaza Strip following a surprise operation by the Palestinian Hamas resistance group.

The Lebanese resistance movement has vowed to keep up its retaliatory attacks as long as the Israeli regime continues its Gaza war, which has so far killed at least 39,623 Palestinians, mostly women and children, in Gaza.

Hezbollah officials have repeatedly said they do not want a war with Israel while stressing that they are prepared in case it occurs.

Two Israeli wars waged against Lebanon in 2000 and 2006 were met with strong resistance from Hezbollah, resulting in the retreat of the regime in both conflicts.

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At least eight Palestinians killed in Israeli raids on West Bank towns

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 5:51 AM

Israeli forces have killed at least eight Palestinians in separate raids on West Bank towns as the regime's violence in the occupied territory shows no sign of abating.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said on Tuesday that two 19-year-olds succumbed to their wounds after they were shot by occupation troopers during early morning raid in the town of Aqqaba, north of Tubas, Wafa news agency reported.

The report added that a 14-year-old Palestinian boy and a 37-year-old man lost their lives due to Israeli gunfire.

Seven people were also wounded in the attack.

During the Aqqabah raid, the Israeli forces surrounded a house and fired live bullets at young Palestinians who tried to resist the incursion.

Also, the Palestinian Red Crescent said, "Four martyrs and three wounded, one of whom is very critical, due to the occupation's shelling of two vehicles in the eastern neighborhood of Jenin."

Since Israel unleashed a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip in early October 2023, casualties have been rising in the West Bank as a result of intensified near-daily raids by the regime troops into Palestinian towns.

More than 600 Palestinians have been killed in the occupied West Bank by Israeli forces since the beginning of Israel's Gaza onslaught.

At least 39,623 Palestinians, most of them women and children, have also been killed in Israeli attacks across the besieged Gaza over the past 10 months.

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To guard against Chinese buildup, Philippines will not leave Sabina Shoal

Chinese ships have gathered near the reef in the Spratly Islands, a Philippine Navy official said.

By Jason Gutierrez for BenarNews 2024.08.06 -- The Philippines said Tuesday it would remain indefinitely in a South China Sea shoal within its exclusive economic zone to ensure that Beijing does not engage there in building-related activities.

Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, said the military branch had deployed a ship near Sabina Shoal to monitor the presence of Chinese vessels that have congregated near the area. The West Philippine Sea is Manila's name for South China Sea waters inside its Exclusive Economic Zone, or EEZ.

Sabina Shoal is a reef in the Spratly Islands that lies within the Philippine EEZ. China calls the shoal Xiabin Reef, while the Philippines refers to it as Sabina Shoal.

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.

Trinidad said the Navy had monitored an "unusual pile up of crushed corals" in the area, forcing the Philippine Coast Guard to send a ship to monitor activities there. He said the Chinese side was being guarded by China Coast Guard vessel 5901, which experts have described as a 12,000-ton "monster ship."

"It has been there since 30 July, until this morning, so we're watching them [and] they are watching us," Trinidad told a press forum on the West Philippine Sea.

"We have increased [our] presence in Sabina Shoal or Escoda just to ensure that there is no man-made facility to pile up crushed corals on the shoal," he said, adding that a Chinese research and survey vessel, Ke Xue San Hao, had been tracked sailing and passing through Sabina Shoal. "We have informed appropriate government agencies about this."

"It has been crisscrossing the area," the past week and a half, Trinidad said, adding that Philippine Coast Guard vessels backed by the Navy would stay in the area on a rotating basis as long as the Chinese were also there.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to queries for comment. But on Sunday, it accused the Philippines of illegally stranding several vessels in the area, including a coast guard ship.

Trinidad maintained that the situation "is not a standoff" similar to what happened on Scarborough Shoal, which is also within Manila's South China Sea territory, but which China has effectively occupied since 2012.

The Philippines took China to an international court of arbitration over the incident and in 2016 the body ruled in favor of the Southeast Asian country. China, however, has refused to recognize the ruling, and maintains that it owns nearly all of the South China Sea, including in waters that reach the shores of its neighbors.

Trinidad said China had reclaimed "roughly around 3,000 hectares" in the South China Sea, including Philippine waters. He said the areas that Beijing now controls were already militarized.

"They have airstrips. They have harbors for warships. There are structures on land that we can only surmise are aircraft hangars. They have military-grade communications equipment," he said.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.

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.

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China's efforts to boost Tibet's economy benefit Han population, report says

But Tibetans believe the resulting economic marginalization could increase tensions in the region.

By Lobsang and Tenzin Pema for RFA Tibetan 2024.08.06 -- A Chinese government measure to boost the economy and improve the business environment of the Tibet Autonomous Region will benefit the large and growing Han population there, while Tibetans face increased economic marginalization, according to a new think-tank report.

Chinese officials have doubled down on expanding existing economic and technology development zones, or ETDZs, in Tibet, says a July 26 report by the Jamestown Foundation, a Washington think tank.

The zones are in keeping with the government's focus on urbanization, cross-border trade and a strategy to shift the Tibetan economy away from traditional sectors, such as agriculture and herding, and into export-oriented industries.

As such, the zones focus on urban centers such as Lhasa, Lhokha, Shigatse, Nyingtri and Chamdo  cities with large and growing Han Chinese populations. This means the Han will reap the economic spoils from the zones, while Tibetans are excluded, possibly straining relations between the two ethnic groups even more, the report says.

"Heavy subsidization, Han control of the Tibetan economy (except for in the agriculture and livestock sectors), and the marginalization of ethnic Tibetans could cause problems for both the local economy's prospects and are likely to deepen social tensions," Devendra Kumar, associate fellow at the Centre of Excellence for Himalayan Studies at the Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence in Delhi, India, wrote in the report.

"The government's more recent initiatives could simply exacerbate the problems, particularly as the new parks and zones are focused on pockets of the rising Han population," Kumar added.

The report came around the time that the Chinese government announced that the Tibet Autonomous Region recorded economic growth of 6.1 percent during the first half of 2024, compared to over 8% during the same period in 2023.

Tibetans say Beijing's measures to spur the autonomous region's economy, such as the tech zones, have left them out in the cold because of ongoing economic marginalization.

Assimilationist policies

Tibetans have long been shut out of government and construction jobs, dominated by Han migrants. They are also hurt by Beijing's assimilationist policies that disadvantages them when competing for urban employment opportunities.

Government restrictions on Tibetans banning them from travel inside and outside the region and onerous requirements for travel and business permits limit business opportunities, said several Tibetans from inside Tibet, including three businessmen.

"Major business opportunities are given to Chinese individuals, and Tibetans are only occasionally assigned minor and small businesses," one of the businessmen said.

Han Chinese accounted for more than 12% of the population of 3.7 million people in the Tibet Autonomous Region, according to China's 2020 census data.

But the Han constitute a majority or a near majority in certain urban centers. They make up about 39% of the population in Chagyib district of Nyingtri, a prefecture-level city known as Nyingchi in Chinese.

About 57% percent of the population in Gar county in Ngari prefecture, according to 2019 figures from China's National Bureau of Statistics.

In June, Wang Junzheng, party secretary for the Tibet Autonomous Region, reportedly instructed officials at the Lhasa economic-technological development zone to support Tibetan products to be traded globally.

But with China's ongoing border tensions with India and trade limited to Nepal, experts said this would be far from easy.

And traveling for business to neighboring Nepal, a pro-China nation, is difficult, Tibetans said.

"In reality, traveling from Lhasa is very difficult for Tibetans," said a Tibetan businessman from Lhasa. "If Tibetans were allowed to freely export and do business, it would be beneficial."

'Labor work if they are lucky'

Instead, Tibetan businessmen serve as mere middlemen, buying from local Tibetans and then selling to Han Chinese businessmen in Tibet who export these products, the same businessman said.

For the past 15 years, the Chinese government has been trying to reset Tibet's economy, which has until now been driven largely by massive subsidies from the central government, Kumar said.

But the subsidies and large investment opportunities, which Chinese officials say are meant to improve the livelihoods of Tibetans, are mostly doled out to Han Chinese who live in Tibet, another Tibetan businessman from Lhasa told Radio Free Asia on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal.

"If a business opportunity or plan involving a 100,000-yuan [US$14,000] investment is in place, a Tibetan will never receive that investment," he said. "It will be given to Chinese individuals, and local Tibetans may only get employed for labor work if they are lucky."

In the meantime, it will take a while before the establishment of the ETDZs as an economic strategy bears fruit, Kumar wrote in the Jamestown Foundation report.

"ETDZs are designed in part to support exports, but the TAR's external trade is currently limited to Nepal," he said.

For the past 16 years, the Chinese government has focused on developing tourism, mining and construction industries in the Tibet Autonomous Region, "but their potential to help shift to indigenous growth remains limited," Kumar said.

This is why provincial officials have embarked on initiatives that replicate the growth model of inland provinces, he said.

While tourism in Tibet might bring some temporary income to Tibetans, the cost of economic development far outweighs any minor benefit they receive, Lhade Namlo, an Australia-based researcher on Tibet and China, told RFA.

The likely negative impact of industrial development and mining activities on the environment and the long-term dangers posed to neighboring Southeast Asian nations, including India, cannot be ignored, he added.

Additional reporting by Chakmo Tso and Dickey Kundol for RFA Tibetan. Translated by Tenzin Dickyi for RFA Tibetan. 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.

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Cambodia's prime minister warns against Bangladesh-like demonstrations

'I don't want to see this type of situation happening in Cambodia,' Hun Manet told a gathering of businesspeople.

By RFA Khmer 2024.08.06 -- Prime Minister Hun Manet warned Cambodians against protesting against the government, citing Bangladesh's recent demonstrations in its capital that turned into deadly clashes and caused that country's leader to resign and flee by helicopter earlier this week.

People can exercise freedom of expression - but they shouldn't use their freedoms to organize mass demonstrations, Hun Manet told a group of businesspeople at an event in Phnom Penh Aug. 2.

"I don't want to see this type of situation happening in Cambodia," he said, adding that he aims to prevent instability in Cambodia - "especially in Phnom Penh."

"Therefore, on behalf of the Royal Government - and witnessed by the diplomatic officers here today - don't accuse the government of being a dictator if it takes legal action against those who attempt to burn the fire and push for Bangladesh-like demonstrations here in Cambodia," he said.

Mass protests in Bangladesh began last month against quotas in civil service jobs and spiraled into violence when security forces tried to subdue university students. On Monday, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country.

Hun Manet was named prime minister in August 2023 after his father, Hun Sen, stepped down after decades in power.

Last December, Hun Manet made similar remarks after his first 100 days in office, saying it would be better for critics to call him an authoritarian leader than for people to think he's incapable of leading the country.

'Color revolution' fears

Under Hun Sen, Cambodia's government often cracked down on government critics, using threats or court cases to sideline opponents.

Additionally, Hun Sen often accused foreign governments of trying to foment a "color revolution" - or anti-government protest movement - in Cambodia.

In Phnom Penh, authorities continue to regularly deny permits for public marches or protests, and police have often arrested activists to prevent or stop demonstrations.

Because elections are tightly controlled in Cambodia, the only way to change the government is to demonstrate in the streets, exiled opposition leader Sam Rainsy told Radio Free Asia.

"I believe that what is happening in Bangladesh generates hope for Cambodian people," he said. "Hun Sen's regime and the Bangladesh regime are alike. They are dictatorial regimes."

Hun Sen, 72, retains influence as president of the ruling Cambodian People's Party and as president of the Senate. He also posts frequently on social media and continues to make public speeches.

Last month, police arrested three activists and one other man who angered Hun Sen by making critical comments in a Facebook video about a longstanding economic cooperation agreement with Vietnam and Laos.

In his speech, Hun Sen warned against making comments about the potential loss of Cambodian territorial integrity to Vietnam - a sensitive political issue that has led to the arrests of numerous opposition activists.

Hun Manet tried to assure people about the 1999 agreement, known as the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Triangle Development Area, in an Aug. 3 public appearance.

"The cooperative agreement for the development of the triangle zone will not make us lose our country or our territory. This is a guarantee," he said at a university graduation ceremony in Phnom Penh.

Translated by Sum Sok Ry. Edited by Matt Reed.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content 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.

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Hizballah Leader Says Iran 'Obliged' To Respond To Haniyeh Killing

By RFE/RL August 06, 2024

Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of the Iran-backed Lebanon-based group Hizballah, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States, said Israel's recent actions will not go without a "strong and effective" response amid fears of a full-blown war in the region.

Hizballah said six of its fighters were killed in Israeli attacks on August 6, while it claimed to have launched missiles and drones at Israel, though no casualties were immediately reported.

For months, Israel and Hizballah have traded constant cross-border attacks -- including a deadly rocket attack from Lebanon on July 27 that hit the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, killing 12 youths and children -- that have killed many and displaced thousands of people.

Pressure has continued to build since strikes killed top military commander Fuad Shukr in a Beirut suburb and Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, which has also been designated a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union, in Iran.

Tehran is Hizballah's main ally, and the Lebanese militant group is a key member of Iran's so-called axis of resistance, a loose network of militant groups and proxies that aid it in opposing Israel and the United States.

Hizballah is also considered a key part of Iran's efforts to deter Israel or Washington from going to war against Tehran.

Tehran "finds itself obliged to respond, and the enemy is waiting in a great state of dread," Nasrallah said in a televised address on August 6 to mark one week since Shukr's death.

"Whatever the consequences, the resistance will not let these Israeli attacks pass by," he added, saying that Hizballah will respond "alone or in the context of a unified response from all the axis" of Iran-backed groups in the region, "whatever the consequences."

Experts say no side wants an all-out war in a region that has been reeling since Israel launched its war against Hamas after it killed some 1,200 people in a raid and took 240 people hostage on October 7.

Hizballah has not usually shied away from claiming attacks on Israeli targets. But it issued a rare denial of responsibility after the attack that killed the children and youths in the Golan Heights.

Israel has not claimed responsibility for the two recent assassinations, but it has admitted to killing other senior Hamas leaders, including Saleh al-Arouriand Mohammed Deif, the movement's military commander.

Hamidreza Azizi, a fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, recently told RFE/RL that if war did break out, members of the "axis of resistance" would likely intensify their attacks against Israel while also targeting U.S. troops and bases in the region in a bid to pressure Washington to rein in Israel.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on August 5 called it a "critical moment" for the region and said Washington was "engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock" to help calm tensions amid fears Iran is preparing a retaliatory strike against Israel over Haniyeh's assassination in the Iranian capital.

As the world waits to see how and when Iran carries out its promised response to Haniyeh's assassination, Hamas named its Gaza leader, Yahya Sinwar, as Haniyeh's successor.

Sinwar is considered the architect of the October 7 attack on Israel, and is believed to be in hiding in Gaza, evading Israeli attempts to kill him since the start of the war.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-hizballah-retaliation- israel/33068176.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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US Ready to Take Action Over Asad Airbase Attack if Iraq Fails to Respond - State Dept

Sputnik News

20240806

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The United States expects Iraq to take action against those responsible for the attack on Al Asad Airbase, but it is prepared to take its own measures if Baghdad does not respond appropriately, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.

"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.

"But as we have shown in previous cases, we won't hesitate to defend our troops and to take our own accountability measures or our own steps to hold terrorist groups accountable if we don't see appropriate actions from the government of Iraq."

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.

 Sputnik

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Path to Peace in Middle East Conflict Lies in Political Solution - Abbas

Sputnik News

20240806

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said in an interview with Sputnik that the path to peace in the Middle East conflict lied in a political solution to it, recalling that the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) has never refused to negotiate with Israel.

He added that several years ago he agreed to a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with Russia's mediation.

"We have repeatedly agreed to a meeting with Mr. Netanyahu in Moscow at the invitation of President Putin, who, like all Russian friends, has our trust," Abbas said.

Abbas stressed that political solution is the only way to "universal peace".

"We confirm that the path to achieving universal peace and security lies through a political solution based on international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. We did not refuse to meet with the Israeli side, but they turned away from the path of peace," he added.

According to Abbas, the current Israeli government "has adopted a series of laws with the aim of preventing the establishment of a Palestinian state and undermining the prospects for a two-state solution "on the ground."

"Right now, our primary focus is on ending the Israeli occupation army's war against the Palestinian people, the daily slaughter and massive destruction. In parallel, we are working with Arab states, UN Security Council members, EU countries and other interested world powers to abandon the military solutions that Israel seeks and to return to a political settlement that will end the war and contribute to achieving a full and lasting peace," Abbas concluded.

 Sputnik

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Houthis Spokesman Claims 'Major Plans' for Strike on Israel

Sputnik News

20240806

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.

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.

"We tend during this period to speak little and act a lot," Amer told the publication. "This is what I want the world to understand."

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.

 Sputnik

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Haniyeh's Assassination Aimed at Prolonging Conflict in Gaza, Complicating Talks - Abbas

Sputnik News

20240806

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.

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.

"There is no doubt that the purpose of Mr. Haniyeh's assassination is to prolong the war and expand its scope," Abbas said. "It will have a negative impact on the ongoing negotiations to end the aggression and withdraw Israeli troops from Gaza, but we call on our people to be steadfast, united and patient in the face of this occupation."

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 Israeli occupation authorities are required to abandon their ambitions and stop their aggressive actions against our people and our cause, to comply with international law and implement the Arab Peace Initiative, as well as an immediate and lasting ceasefire and withdrawal from the Gaza Strip," he added.

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.

 Sputnik

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Secretary Blinken's Call with Jordanian Foreign Minister Safadi

US Department of State

Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

August 6, 2024

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi to discuss efforts to de-escalate regional tensions. The Secretary stressed the urgent need to reach an immediate ceasefire in Gaza that would secure the release of hostages, allow a surge of humanitarian assistance, alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people, and create the conditions for broader stability. He emphasized the importance of all parties taking steps to reduce tensions and avoid further escalation. Secretary Blinken underscored unwavering U.S. support to Jordan and thanked the Kingdom for its leadership in providing life-saving humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians and in promoting regional peace and security.



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Reinforcing Sanctions on Former Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes

US Department of State

Press Statement

Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

August 6, 2024

The United States is imposing sanctions on Paraguayan tobacco company Tabacalera del Este S.A. (Tabesa) for providing financial support to Paraguay's former president, Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara (Cartes), a U.S.-designated person.

The Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Cartes on January 26, 2023, for his involvement in corruption. On March 31, 2023, OFAC identified Tabesa as an entity in which Cartes owned, directly or indirectly, a 50 percent or greater interest. Pursuant to a sales agreement between Tabesa and Cartes, Tabesa has made - and plans to continue making - payments worth millions of dollars to Cartes, despite his designation by OFAC.

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. The United States remains dedicated to ensuring accountability for Cartes and to promoting meaningful anti-corruption reform in Paraguay.

OFAC's designation of Tabesa today was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13818, which builds upon and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and targets perpetrators of serious human rights abuse and corruption around the world. For more information, see Treasury's press release.





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Treasury Designates Tobacco Company for Supporting Paraguay's Sanctioned Former President

U.S. Department of the Treasury

August 6, 2024

WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Paraguayan tobacco company Tabacalera del Este S.A. (Tabesa) for providing financial support to Paraguay's former president, Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara (Cartes), who OFAC sanctioned on January 26, 2023 for his involvement in corruption. Tabesa is being designated pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13818, which builds upon and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and targets perpetrators of serious human rights abuse and corruption around the world.

OFAC previously identified Tabesa on OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) List as an entity in which Cartes owned, directly or indirectly, a 50 percent or greater interest. While Cartes no longer owns Tabesa following a sales agreement to acquire Cartes's shares in the company, Tabesa has madeand plans to continue makingpayments worth millions of dollars to Cartes, despite Cartes's designation by OFAC.

Tabesa is being designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of Cartes, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 13818. Note that licensed activities related to Tabesa pursuant to General License 7 under the Global Magnitsky Sanctions Regulations continue to be authorized.

SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS

As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated person described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons remain blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons also remain blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons.

In addition, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.

GLOBAL MAGNITSKY

Building upon the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, E.O. 13818 was issued on December 20, 2017, in recognition that the prevalence of human rights abuse and corruption that have their source, in whole or in substantial part, outside the United States, had reached such scope and gravity as to threaten the stability of international political and economic systems. Human rights abuse and corruption undermine the values that form an essential foundation of stable, secure, and functioning societies; have devastating impacts on individuals; weaken democratic institutions; degrade the rule of law; perpetuate violent conflicts; facilitate the activities of dangerous persons; and undermine economic markets. The United States seeks to impose tangible and significant consequences on those who commit serious human rights abuse or engage in corruption, as well as to protect the financial system of the United States from abuse by these same persons.

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the SDN List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer to OFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897 here. For detailed information on the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please click here.

Click here for more information on the entity designated today.

###

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There is famine in Sudan - and that famine is entirely man-made: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.

6 August 2024

There is only one possible conclusion from the Famine Review Committee's data: there is famine in Sudan, and that famine is entirely man-made.

Today, one hundred Sudanese civilians, men, women and children will die from starvation.

Tomorrow, one hundred more.

This appalling loss of life will continue until the warring parties put the Sudanese people before power.

President, the level of suffering in Sudan is unimaginable. It exists far beyond Zamzam camp, and it is a direct consequence of the actions of the warring parties.

The Sudanese Armed Forces are obstructing aid delivery into Darfur, including by shutting the Adre crossing, the most direct route to deliver assistance at scale.

The Rapid Support Forces' ongoing assault on Darfur has forced thousands to flee and created the conditions for starvation to spread. It does not need to be this way. The warring parties and those with influence can take immediate action to prevent further suffering.

First, we call on the warring parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access. This includes opening the Adre crossing, lifting bureaucratic obstacles and taking measures to protect aid workers, so they can deliver food to starving communities.

Second, there is no military solution to this crisis. We call on the warring parties to join talks in Geneva and engage in good faith, to agree steps to a durable ceasefire, full humanitarian access and the protection of civilians.

And third, in March, the Secretary General released a White Note under Security Council resolution 2417 to warn this Council of the risk of famine in Sudan. The UN's warnings and calls for action have been ignored by the warring parties just as they have ignored international calls for a ceasefire, including by this Council.

In the face of such blatant disregard for human life, this Council should consider all necessary tools to end this man-made crisis.

President, it is not too late to prevent further suffering. The time to act is now.

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Norway to join UK Navy deployment to Indo-Pacific next year

Key NATO partner joins UK Carrier Strike Group global deployment in 2025.

6 August 2024

Norway will join the UK's Carrier Strike Group deployment to Japan and the Indo-Pacific region in 2025, Defence Secretary John Healey has announced today.

It comes as the Defence Secretary welcomed his Norwegian counterpart Bjrn Arild Gram to London today, where the Ministers discussed the maritime deployment, industrial collaboration, support to Ukraine and the urgent need for de-escalation in the Middle East.

The Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Prince of Wales, one of Britain's two aircraft carriers, and accompanied by her escorts and aircraft, will work alongside the Japanese Self Defence Forces and other partners to help defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Norway is a long-standing NATO ally, and part of the Joint Expeditionary Force and Northern Group, whilst also being a strong trade partner with the UK. Their involvement will bolster the Strike Group with two ships, including one frigate, demonstrating that the security of the Euro-Atlantic region and Indo-Pacific is indivisible.

Defence Secretary, John 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. It's an exciting demonstration of the strength of our nations' maritime partnership and the deepening of our relationship in the months and years to come.

Norwegian Defence Secretary, Bjrn Arild Gram, said:

The UK is Norway's closest and most important European Ally. We have a long-standing and very close defence relationship. With this joint deployment we are developing this cooperation even further. The Indo-Pacific is an area of growing importance for global security and stability, also for Europe.

During this deployment we will be able to operate with NATO and other important partners in this part of the world. Finally, during this deployment our Armed Forces will develop skills and proficiency from taking part in allied carrier operations. This is critically important for our national defence.

The Carrier Strike Group deployment in 2025 highlights the strength of the UK's determination to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific. This has been bolstered by the Royal Navy's persistent presence in the region through HMS Spey and HMS Tamar.

The deployment will last for around seven months and bring a range of military, security and prosperity benefits for the UK and participating nations. It will reinforce the UK's commitment to global security, anchored on the NATO Alliance, but also build partnerships with those who share our world view around the globe.

A Carrier Strike Group is a versatile and lethal resource that few countries possess. Always led by an aircraft carrier embarked with F-35B Lightning jets, the rest of the UK formation can be made up of submarines, warships and support vessels, including from other allied navies.

The Carrier Strike Group offers cutting-edge air, surface and underwater defence, but it is also a focal point for delivering wider strategic objectives.

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UN rights office reports escalation in strikes on schools in Gaza

6 August 2024 - The UN human rights office, OHCHR, has expressed horror at the escalating pattern of Israeli Defence Force (IDF) strikes on schools in Gaza, which have killed at least 163 internally displaced Palestinians, including children and women, in the past month.

According to the office at least 17 schools have been hit, raising serious concerns about compliance with principles of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), including distinction, proportionality and precaution.

OHCHR also pointed to an escalation in such attacks. Since last Monday, at least seven schools have been targeted - all reportedly serving as shelters for internally displaced persons (IDPs), while one was also serving as a field hospital.

Israel's obligations

The Israeli military claims that five of the schools were being used by "Hamas operatives".

OHCHR emphasized that if this were the case, the use of civilians by armed groups to shield military objectives is also a major violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

"[However,] it does not negate Israel's obligation to comply strictly with International Humanitarian Law, including the principles of proportionality, distinction and precaution when carrying out military operations," the office said.

"Israel, as the occupying power, is also obliged to provide the evacuated populations with basic humanitarian needs, including safe shelter."

Killings in the West Bank

OHCHR also voiced deep concern over the continuing use of lethal force by Israeli security forces (ISF) in the West Bank, amid reports that nine Palestinians were killed on 3 August, including five that "appeared to have been planned extra-judicial executions."

ISF claimed that five of those killed were on their way to carry out a "terrorist attack". On the same day, four Palestinian armed men engaged in a firefight with ISF and were killed in an Israeli air strike.

OHCHR also noted that on 4 August, a Palestinian man from Salfit in the occupied West Bank, reportedly stabbed and killed two Israelis and injured two others in Holon, Tel Aviv, after irregularly crossing into Israel. ISF reportedly shot and killed the assailant.

Rights experts alarm over regional escalation

Meanwhile, a group of independent human rights experts on Tuesday condemned the increasing violence in the wider Middle East region.

They highlighted a rocket strike on a village in the Israeli-occupied Golan that killed 12 children. Israel claimed that Hezbollah was responsible, but southern Lebanon-based armed group has denied the attack.

The experts also cited Israel's alleged killing of a Hezbollah commander in southern Beirut and the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas' political chief in Tehran.

"We are extremely concerned by these killings, which violate the human right to life and risk perilous further escalation of violence and displacement in the region," they said in a news release.

Call for independent investigations

The Human Rights Council-appointed experts added that these incidents underscored the need for full, independent, and impartial investigations, including access to all pertinent evidence and full cooperation from relevant countries.

They also called on the Security Council to fulfil its responsibility to effectively respond to all actors in the region whose actions threaten international peace and security.

Killing of journalists condemned

In a separate news release, the independent human rights expert on freedom of opinion and expression, Special Rapporteur Irene Khan, condemned the killing of Al Jazeera journalist Ismail Al-Ghoul and cameraman Rami Al-Rifi in Gaza on 1 August.

The deliberate targeting by Israel, she said "adds to an already appalling toll of reporters and media workers killed in this war."

Mr. Al-Ghoul was wearing a clearly marked press jacket when an Israeli drone missile struck a vehicle. Israel's military confirmed Al-Ghoul's death, accusing him of being a "Hamas operative".

"The Israeli military seems to be making accusations without any substantive evidence as a licence to kill journalists, which is in total contravention of international humanitarian law," Ms. Khan stressed.

She added that she was dismayed by attacks targeting the Qatar-based Al Jazeera media network, including the deliberate killing of its journalists in Gaza, the total ban on the outlet in Israel, and what she called the vicious smear campaign against the broadcaster.

Independent human rights experts

Appointed by the Geneva-based Human Rights Council, independent human rights experts include Special Rapporteurs, Independent Experts, Working Groups and Committees.

They are tasked to assess, monitor and report on the human rights situation in certain thematic areas or country situations.

The experts serve in their individual capacity, independent of the UN system and national governments. They are not UN staff and draw no salary.

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Bangladesh at a crossroad, says senior UN official

6 August 2024 - The resignation and departure of the Bangladeshi Prime Minister after weeks of bloody protests has been met with "euphoria" alongside some concern over the government's transition, the UN's top official in Bangladesh said in an interview with UN News on Tuesday.

"Young people and people from every range of life across Bangladesh, across the entire country, came out on the streets to celebrate," UN Resident Coordinator Gwyn Lewis remarked.

Some of the celebrations following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation took a violent turn, leading to scenes of destruction, vandalism, attacks against police stations, and killings of police officers who were seen to be in alignment with the government.

Recent bloodshed

More than 300 civilians were killed and over 20,000 injured in student-led protests during the last weeks, making the bloodshed 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 the Prime Minister 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.

On Tuesday morning, relative calm returned to the country but the situation remains uncertain until a transitional government is formed, according to the Resident Coordinator. Media reports suggest that Muhammad Yunus will head the interim government.

What sparked the protests?

When asked how the protests led to the demands for the Prime Minister to be removed, Ms. Lewis responded that "it is incumbent on all of us to remember that is was in December that there were very controversial elections held and there was really a very strong sense in the country that those elections were not free and fair".

This political frustration was exacerbated due to the increase in food and fuel prices, leading more marginalised Bangladeshis to fall further into poverty, said the Resident Coordinator.

Young people were especially impacted when the government announced a court order in June regarding civil service job quotas that favoured those considered elite, making it harder for the two million young Bangladeshis who enter the workforce every year to find a job.

Though the scheme was withdrawn, the protests against it merged into calls for the resignation of the Prime Minister who was accused of not hearing their concerns.

Many civilians from different parts of society joined the protests "calling for change and that was the change that they haven't been able to see during the elections in December," Ms. Lewis stated.

Hope for the future

Despite the chaos of recent weeks, Ms. Lewis characterised the mood in the country as "one of hope".

"If and when this transition Government is shaped and the voices of the young people in the country are heard, I think we can really shape and move forward to continue the trajectory of positive development," she added, noting Bangladesh's progress towards achieving its 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

"It's really a moment of a crossroads for Bangladesh, and so we're really hopeful that this will become something very positive that we can build on for our colleagues who are Bangladeshis and for the people of Bangladesh," the UN Resident Coordinator concluded.

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Warning 26 Million People Facing Acute Hunger in Sudan, Senior World Food Programme Official Tells Security Council Political Will, Leadership Key to Stopping Famine

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9698th Meeting (AM)

SC/15784

6 August 2024

Halting famine in Sudan requires political will and leadership, a senior United Nations official told the Security Council today, as speakers urged the warring parties to heed the international community's repeated calls to stop fighting and avoid a further deterioration of the already catastrophic humanitarian crisis.

"Our warnings have not been heard," said Stephen Omollo, Assistant Executive Director for Workplace and Management of the World Food Programme (WFP), recalling its previous alerts about a widespread collapse in food security across Sudan. He noted that WFP's Famine Review Committee has concluded that there is famine in Zamzam camp near El Fasher in North Darfur and that other areas in Darfur and elsewhere are at high risk, with more than half of the country's population facing crisis levels of hunger.

The Council must ensure that "this forgotten crisis" receives the "political and diplomatic attention it desperately needs", he said, pointing to the failure of both the Government and rebel forces to meet their obligations under international humanitarian law by routinely blocking requests for cross-line clearances and imposing restrictions on cross-border routes.

To make matters worse, "Sudan is critically underfunded," he said, highlighting the need for increased and flexible funding to support the rapid scale-up of the relief operations "if we are to save lives".

Also briefing the 15-member organ was Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, who cited a staggering 26 million people in acute hunger  three times the population of New York City. When famine happens, "it means we are too late... we, the international community, have failed," she said, lamenting: "This is an entirely man-made crisis  and a shameful stain on our collective conscience".

Relief supplies for people in Zamzam are readily available in eastern Chad but heavy rains have flooded the Tine crossing  the only cross-border route currently permitted to use between east Chad and Darfur after the Sudanese authorities revoked permission for the use of the Adre crossing, which would be the most effective route. "Assistance delayed is assistance denied," she said, emphasizing that "it is still possible to stop this freight train of suffering that is charging through Sudan".

The Sudan humanitarian appeal is just 32 per cent funded  having received $874 million out of the $2.7 billion needed, she noted.

In the ensuing discussion, delegates called for an immediate ceasefire between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces as it remains the only sustainable solution to preventing the further spread of famine. They also supported the UN officials' demands for rapid, safe and unimpeded humanitarian access across Sudan through all possible routes and more financial resources.

"No financial contribution echoes louder than the silence of the guns," said Slovenia's representative, declaring that "famine has no place in the twenty-first century". Otherwise, "100 Sudanese civilians will die from starvation" each day until the warring parties put the Sudanese people before power, warned the speaker for the United Kingdom.

The representative of Malta was among those who called for the re-opening of the Adre border crossing for use by the United Nations and partners in reaching the Rapid Support Forces-held Darfur region. Since the closure of that crossing in February, the number of people facing emergency levels of hunger grew from 4.9 million to 8.5 million in July 2024, she cautioned.

Sudan's delegate, however, said that the reports of famine in Zamzam and other camps are "not true", noting that the conditions in these camps do not meet the metrics for the declaration of famine. Holding up pictures of children in Zamzam, he underscored that there are no deaths or starvation among the internally displaced persons in the camp. Further, it is not the Government that is blocking humanitarian aid, he reiterated, attributing the shortage in food and humanitarian assistance to the siege by the Rapid Support Forces.

The delegate of the Russian Federation said that while Sudan is facing serious food challenges and the threats of famine are tangible, they are not linked to a lack of food but logistical and distribution issues. Rather than artificially instrumentalizing the issue of famine, he underlined the need to prioritize the development of agriculture and farmers' access to markets.

Several speakers highlighted ongoing mediation efforts, such as the recent Geneva proximity talks convened by the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, as well as the efforts of the African Union and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to bring peace to Sudan. Among them was Algeria's diplomat, who spoke also for Guyana, Mozambique and Sierra Leone to pledge international support: "We cannot idly stand by while an entire nation is on the brink of collapse".

Briefings

EDEM WOSORNU, Director of Operations and Advocacy, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs , said: "The humanitarian situation in Sudan today is an absolute catastrophe," citing a staggering 26 million people in acute hunger  three times the population of New York City. More than 10 million people have been forced to flee their homes due to violence, hunger and deprivation. Sudan's health care system has collapsed. An entire generation of children is missing out on a second straight year of their education. Khartoum  the capital of Sudan, once the beating heart of the country  is in ruins. The World Food Programme (WFP) Famine Review Committee concluded that famine conditions are present in the Zamzam camp near El Fasher in North Darfur and also found that they are likely present in other displacement camps in and around the city. When famine happens, "it means we are too late... we, the international community, have failed," she said, lamenting: "This is an entirely man-made crisis  and a shameful stain on our collective conscience".

With 480 days of conflict pushing millions of civilians into a quagmire of violence  and with it, death, injury and inhumane treatment, the women and girls of Sudan continue to be exposed to the worst of the parties' conduct, such as rape. Against this backdrop, "the humanitarian community in Sudan continues to work against the odds to deliver life-saving assistance to civilians in need," she stressed, noting that the UN and partners are exploring every possible avenue to reach affected communities, including through airlifts. As a first step, the necessary permissions to assess relevant airstrips are needed. The UN and partners are also scaling up cash assistance in areas where markets are functioning and delivering seeds and other inputs to support farmers. "In short, we are pushing from every possible angle to stop this catastrophe from getting even worse," she said.

But aid workers in Sudan continue to be harassed, attacked and even killed, she warned, noting widespread obstructions. In just one example, three trucks carrying therapeutic food have been blocked by the Rapid Support Forces for over a month in Kabkabiya, in North Darfur. Relief supplies for people in Zamzam are readily available in eastern Chad but heavy rains have flooded Tine crossing  the only cross-border route currently permitted to use between eastern Chad and Darfur after the Sudanese authorities revoked permission for the use of the Adre crossing, which would be the most effective route. "Assistance delayed is assistance denied" for the many Sudanese civilians who are dying of hunger, she said. Meanwhile, the Sudan humanitarian appeal is just 32 per cent funded  having received $874 million out of the $2.7 billion needed.

On 20 March, the Council was warned about the risk of famine and widespread food insecurity due to the conflict in Sudan. "We have continued to sound the alarm at every one of the six briefings we have given since then," she said, adding: "It is still possible to stop this freight train of suffering that is charging through Sudan". She then reiterated her Office's main asks: The conflict must stop to allow for the rapid delivery of humanitarian assistance across the country. The warring parties must uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law. Also needed are rapid, safe and unimpeded humanitarian access across Sudan through all possible routes and more resources, including flexible funding. "If we had these four things, the picture in Sudan  including in Zamzam camp  would look very different," she concluded.

STEPHEN OMOLLO, Assistant Executive Director for Workplace and Management, World Food Programme , recalling its previous warnings about a widespread collapse in food security across Sudan, pointed to the restrictions faced by humanitarian agencies in accessing significant parts of the country with food and other essential supplies. Unfortunately, "our warnings have not been heard", he said. WFP's Famine Review Committee has concluded there is famine in Zamzam camp, near El Fasher, in North Darfur; it is also warning that other areas, in Darfur and elsewhere, are at high risk of famine, he added, noting that more than half of the country's population is facing crisis levels of hunger. An estimated 73,000 children are projected to suffer severe acute malnutrition this year, the most life-threatening form of malnutrition, he added, noting that this is the first time the Committee has confirmed a famine in more than seven years.

Calling on the Council to ensure that "this forgotten crisis" receives the "political and diplomatic attention it desperately needs", he said all parties to this conflict are failing to meet their obligations under international humanitarian law. They are both routinely blocking requests for cross-line clearances, while restrictions imposed on cross-border routes are another major obstacle. The rainy season has significantly reduced the delivery capacity of the Tine crossing from Chad; it is therefore essential that the Adre crossing is officially made available immediately. Stressing that the WFP "is working day and night to get life-saving food where it is needed the most", he said it is significantly scaling up operations across the country and boosting "capacity, presence and resources". It will prioritize reaching people facing emergency and catastrophic levels of hunger, those who have been internally displaced and refugees who have fled the bloodshed into neighbouring countries.

Calling on the Council to use its influence, he stressed that a ceasefire remains the only sustainable solution that will prevent the further spread of famine. Underscoring the need for increased and flexible funding to support the rapid scale-up of the relief operations, he said: "Sudan is critically underfunded, and this has to change if we are to save lives." He also highlighted the need for effective diplomacy to secure cross-border supply routes and other border entry points from Chad, South Sudan, Libya and Egypt. The Council must provide assistance to stop routine interference with humanitarian deliveries and movements, including a range of bureaucratic restrictions, he added. "Halting the famine now under way requires political will and leadership," he said.

Statements

The representative of the United Kingdom , stressing that the famine in Sudan "is entirely man-made", said today, "100 Sudanese civilians will die from starvation". Tomorrow, 100 more will. "This appalling loss of life will continue until the warring parties put the Sudanese people before power," he stated, adding that the level of suffering in Sudan is unimaginable. The Sudanese Armed Forces are obstructing aid delivery into Darfur, including shutting the Adre crossing, the most direct route to deliver assistance at scale. The Rapid Support Forces' ongoing assault on Darfur has forced thousands to flee and created the conditions for starvation to spread, he said, calling on the warring parties to allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access. This includes opening the Adre crossing, lifting bureaucratic obstacles and taking measures to protect aid workers. He further urged the warring parties to join talks in Geneva and agree on steps to a durable ceasefire, full humanitarian access and the protection of civilians. It is not too late to prevent further suffering, he said, declaring: "The time to act is now".

The representative of Slovenia declared that "famine has no place in the twenty-first century", calling for unimpeded humanitarian access via all available cross-line and cross-border routes to prevent further suffering. The opening of the Adre corridor would bring much-needed relief to the local communities. "A durable political solution is the only way to fully avert the spread of famine and alleviate humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan," he said, calling for an immediate ceasefire. Today's Council meeting must serve as another united call for the warring parties to implement their agreed commitments and move the needle in the political standstill. There are two clear drivers of hunger  the violent conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces and the obstacles posed to humanitarian access on both sides. Using starvation as a method of warfare is prohibited under international humanitarian law. There is no humanitarian action that can replace the cessation of hostilities. "No financial contribution echoes louder than the silence of the guns," he said.

The representative of Switzerland recalled that four months ago, Council members were warned of the "real risk of famine" in Sudan. "This scenario is now materializing before our very eyes," he said, adding that the leading cause is the devastating armed conflict that continues without let-up. He called on all parties to the conflict to immediately silence their weapons in Sudan, in particular in El Fasher, and engage in dialogue towards a political solution facilitating quick, safe and unhindered humanitarian aid. Although there have been encouraging improvements in recent weeks, bureaucratic and administrative obstacles to humanitarian actors persist, he pointed out, asserting: "These must be removed immediately." Also, an urgent and tangible increase in financial support is essential to help the most vulnerable, as significant funding gaps remain, including for local organizations at the forefront of response efforts. The international community must mobilize the necessary resources and political commitment to respond, he stressed.

The representative of France said "there is no longer any doubt that famine has taken root in Sudan," with 25.6 million people facing acute hunger. Agriculture and food supply chains have been destroyed, and the lack of water and electricity is leading to the collapse of the food system. This is entirely caused by parties to the conflict, she said, calling on them to allow United Nations agencies and humanitarian workers to carry out their work. Reiterating the importance of Council resolution 2417 (2018), which condemned the use of famine as a weapon of war, she said the only solution is to ensure a cessation of fighting. Both parties must participate in the negotiations led by the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy in Geneva, she said, noting the European Union's monetary contributions to the fund for tackling famine in Sudan.

The representative of Algeria , speaking also for Guyana , Mozambique and Sierra Leone , highlighted the urgent need for unimpeded humanitarian access. All parties must play their parts to facilitate critical humanitarian assistance across borders and conflict lines. Preventing a further humanitarian catastrophe requires the opening of multiple cross-border access points, he said, encouraging collective efforts and sustained cooperation of the Sudanese Government in that regard. Humanitarian access must go hand in hand with scaled-up resources and adequate funding, he said, adding that neighbouring countries should support those who manage to escape the conflict.

Expressing concern over the siege of El Fasher by the Rapid Support Forces and the deadly clashes in the surrounding villages, he appealed to the warring parties to "put the people of Sudan first" and reach a humanitarian ceasefire. Welcoming ongoing mediation efforts, including the recent Geneva proximity talk convening by the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, he also expressed support for the efforts of the African Union and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to bring peace to Sudan. The recent Djibouti mediation retreat was another step in the right direction. External interferences, fuelling the crisis and impeding advanced advancement towards peace, must be publicly and firmly condemned. The international community must stand as one to end the unspeakable suffering of the Sudanese people and allow them to live in peace and security, he said, adding: "We cannot idly stand by while an entire nation is on the brink of collapse."

The representative of the United States said that "Sudan has reached a dire juncture" due to this "absolutely senseless war". "Families who fled horrific violence have been going hungry for months, children have been eating dirt and leaves, and, every day, babies have been starving to death," he said. The Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces have chosen to let the Sudanese people starve, systematically blocking humanitarian corridors. The former is restricting humanitarians from accessing supplies through the critical Adre crossing, only hours from the Zamzam camp. He called on both parties to remove aid barriers and allow desperately needed food, water and medicine to flow freely and at multiple entry points across borders and conflict lines. "There is no military solution to this war," he said, adding that "the toll is being measured in the tragic loss of civilian lives, displacement of millions from their homes, acute malnourishment, rape, torture and ethnic cleansing". The Council and the key stakeholders in the region must act collectively to end this crisis, he asserted.

The representative of Malta said the finding of plausible famine in areas of Darfur is not only staggering, but also  regrettably  predictable. "The use of arbitrary, bureaucratic and administrative impediments to deliberately slow or obstruct aid delivery is a violation of international humanitarian law," she said. Recalling that in February, the Sudanese Armed Forces closed the border crossing at Adre for use by the United Nations and humanitarian partners in reaching the Rapid Support Forces-held Darfur region, she said "State sovereignty was invoked" to redirect the UN's response to Tine. However, using this crossing is lengthy, dangerous, and expensive, she said, pointing out that since the closure of the border crossing at Adre, the number of people facing emergency levels of hunger grew from 4.9 million to 8.5 million in July 2024. Highlighting the necessity of cross-line authorizations and the re-opening of Adre and similar crossings, she called on both parties to engage with the good offices of the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, and move forward with commitments made in Geneva and Djibouti last month.

The representative of China expressed serious concern about the humanitarian situation in Sudan, especially the food crisis, urging the international community to increase its attention and investment to help alleviate the suffering. Beijing supports the UN humanitarian agencies in their efforts to that end and welcomes the opening of border crossings and airports by the Government of Sudan. Food security should not be used as a tool for pressure and sanctions. "Humanitarian issues and political solutions should be synchronized," he said, urging the warring parties to return to dialogue and realize a ceasefire and abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law. He also supported UN efforts in continuing to maintain contact with all relevant parties and in promoting greater cooperation among the various mediating parties towards a political solution.

The representative of the Russian Federation underscored that the situation in refugee camps near El Fasher is complex, a result of the influx of new refugees forced to seek shelter due to the fighting. However, "the highest level of food insecurity has not been declared there", he stressed, adding that "the specialists are warning us about the theoretical likelihood of a catastrophe but are not stating that there is one". Certain States are seizing the topic of famine to promote their own political agendas in Sudan, he said, questioning how the data was collected and whether the humanitarian workers visited the problematic regions, or "reached their conclusions from the comfort of their home or office". Humanitarian workers and the Sudanese authorities must more actively cooperate to determine the best form of assistance and which border crossings should be used for delivery. For its part, the international community should not interfere in Sudan's domestic affairs under the pretext of a severe humanitarian situation. While Sudan is facing serious food challenges and the threats of famine are tangible, they are not linked to a lack of food but logistical and distribution issues. Rather than artificially instrumentalizing the issue of famine, he underlined the need to prioritize the development of agriculture and farmers' access to markets.

The representative of Japan , expressing concern about the dire humanitarian situation and the spread of violence, said the mortality rate in Zamzam camp has exceeded the threshold of famine. Nearly one third of the country's population is facing acute food insecurity, and the situation will worsen next year because of lack of agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and insecticide. There is also concern about the risk of communicable diseases, including cholera and dengue fever because of heavy rain and flooding. Stressing that all parties involved must enable the conditions to cease hostilities and enter into serious, direct negotiations, he highlighted Council resolution 2736 (2024) calling for an immediate halt to the fighting and de-escalations in and around El Fasher. Unhindered cross-border and cross-line access for large-scale deliveries particularly through all-season roads is crucial, he said.

The representative of Ecuador noted that food insecurity in Sudan has continued to worsen since the last meeting on this subject in March. "In fact, it has reached an abyss," he warned, adding that famine conditions are present in parts of North Darfur, including in the Zamzam camp, with another 13 areas at risk of famine in the coming months. "This catastrophic situation created by man, by conflict, is the result of the escalation of hostilities seen over the last 15 months," he said, appealing to the warring parties to immediately cease hostilities and fulfil their obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law. "It is absolutely necessary to step up efforts to fend off the threat of hunger, which hovers over the people in Sudan," he said, calling for an urgent, united and immediate response from this council as a matter of urgency.

The representative of the Republic of Korea said that "famine has now tragically become an undeniable reality in parts of Sudan, and we can no longer ignore this ongoing disaster". Stressing that the crucial humanitarian aid route to Darfur should be opened immediately to ensure full and unimpeded humanitarian access, he urged the Sudanese authorities to immediately reopen the Adre border crossing. Concurrently, the Rapid Support forces must immediately lift the siege around El Fasher. Moreover, sanctions measures should be implemented to contribute to a cessation of hostilities, he stated, urging all warring parties and Member States to comply with the arms embargo and all regional and international actors to refrain from external interference. "The confirmed famine in Zamzam camp is just the tip of the iceberg," he said, adding that the scourge is imminent or already occurring in many other areas of Sudan.

The representative of Sudan , stating that he will take neither an apologetic approach nor one of denial, said: "We do not deny that the humanitarian situation is dire." Nevertheless, he said, the country's Humanitarian Aid Commission has said that the reports of famine in Zamzam and other camps are not true. The shortage in food and humanitarian assistance in these camps is due to the siege by the Rapid Support Forces, he said, adding that they are currently holding a number of Medecins Sans Frontieres humanitarian assistance trucks and preventing their entry into El Fasher. Further, the conditions in these camps do not meet the metrics for the declaration of famine, he said.

The Rapid Support Forces, he added, has targeted agricultural production in his country  it has looted the grain warehouses, imposed taxes on farmlands and has confiscated wheat. The militia also looted more than 4,000 litres of fuel from the UN, he said, noting that the Organization has not mentioned this. "The fact that these violations are not condemned," he added, emboldens the Rapid Support Forces to commit more atrocities; it also contributes to a wrong narrative about the real source of the suffering in Sudan. In February 2024, his Government announced the opening of humanitarian routes, he said, adding that it opened nine crossings to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance by air, sea and land.

Adding that the country is working in coordination with the UN to facilitate humanitarian response efforts and combat violence within the camps, he said the Government facilitated entry procedures for staff of international humanitarian organizations, including 1,539 entry visas and thousands of internal movement permits. Highlighting his Government's security concerns about the Adre crossing, he said over 452 trucks have entered through the Tine crossing since February 2024. It is the closest town to Darfur and it does not involve coordination with Chad, he noted. Holding up pictures of children in Zamzam camps, he underscored that there are no deaths or starvations among the internally displaced persons in the camp. Further, it is not his Government that is blocking humanitarian aid, he reiterated.

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US completes withdrawal from AB 201

Published Aug. 6, 2024

406th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) -- The U.S. military completed its withdrawal from Air Base 201 in Agadez Aug. 5.

The departure from AB 201 was completed more than a month ahead of schedule and was facilitated by the transparency and professionalism of both U.S. and Nigerien forces.

"We were able to complete the major phase of this withdrawal so quickly due to the cooperation with our Nigerien military counterparts," said U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Kenneth Ekman, Department of Defense West Africa Coordination Element lead, U.S. Africa Command. "It continues at the military level and is affirmed at the political level by Nigerien authorities. The safe, orderly, and responsible withdrawal of U.S. forces and assets is made possible due to out 15 years of close collaboration with the Nigerien military."

U.S. logistics personnel, in cooperation with the Joint Disengagement Commission, ensured personnel and assets were vacated from AB 201in a safe and efficient manner. The commission will continue coordination efforts to ensure the full withdrawal is completed by or before the planned date of Sept. 15.

"The U.S. service members I have met during the withdrawal have impressed me with their professionalism and commitment to their mission despite the unique set of challenges they have faced over the last few months," Ekman said. "They and their families personify resilience. I was struck by the number of service members who insisted on staying until the very end to ensure the withdrawal was done well."

In addition to ensuring the safety of all personnel and assets throughout the withdrawal process, U.S. and Nigerien forces effected an efficient turnover of facilities to enable Niger's efforts to counter violent extremist organizations throughout the Sahel region.

Withdrawal efforts at AB 201 come two months after the first C-17 aircraft departed Air Base 101 in Niamey on June 7, 2024; withdrawal efforts there lasted one month.

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US blames Iran-backed militia for attack on air base in Iraq

By Jeff Seldin August 06, 2024

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.

[[ https://www.voanews.com/a/us-military-sending-reinforcement-to-the-middle-east/7728415.html ]]

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.

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Hezbollah warns Israel: 'Our response is coming' to killing of Iranian-backed militants

By VOA News August 06, 2024

Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah said Tuesday that his militant group and Iran were "obliged to respond ... whatever the consequences" after the death of a Hezbollah military commander in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut last week and the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran.

The twin killings of Fouad Shukur in Lebanon and Ismail Haniyeh in Iran have sharply heightened Middle East tensions.

The Jewish state and Hezbollah have been trading daily attacks along the Lebanese border since the Palestinian militant group Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

In a televised address, Nasrallah said Iran finds "itself obliged to respond, and the enemy is waiting in a great state of dread." Nasrallah said his group was also "obliged to respond."

Hezbollah will retaliate "alone or in the context of a unified response from all the axis" of Iran-backed groups in the region, he said.

"Our response is coming," Nasrallah said in an address to mark a week since Shukur's killing, adding it would be "strong and effective."

"Israel's waiting for a week is part of the punishment, part of the response, part of the battle," he said. "It is Israel who chose escalation ... and who attacked Iran."

Israel has publicly claimed responsibility for the airstrike killing Shukur but not the assassination of Haniyeh.

The White House said President Joe Biden spoke Tuesday with both President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt and Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar to renew efforts to reach a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas to halt fighting in Gaza. Washington said the leaders "agreed on the urgency of bringing the process to closure as soon as possible."

On the battlefront, Hamas says it has chosen Yahya Sinwar, one of the architects of the October attack, as its new leader. Israel last week said that in mid-July, it killed Mohammed Deif, another key Hamas official in Gaza who helped mastermind the attack 10 months ago.

In response, Israel Defense Forces spokesman Daniel Hagari said, "Yahya Sinwar is a terrorist responsible for the most criminal terrorist act in history  October 7. There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar: alongside Mohammed Deif and all the terrorists responsible for October 7. That's the only place we are preparing and designating for him."

Israeli forces carried out airstrikes Tuesday in southern Lebanon that killed four people, according to Lebanese health officials.

The Israeli military said the strikes in the Nabatiye area targeted Hezbollah militants, while Hezbollah said it launched a drone attack directed at Israel.

"Tensions keep escalating in the Middle East, bringing it on the brink of a war of unknown proportions," European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Tuesday. "We all must prevent another catastrophe.

The way forward is largely consensual: cease-fire in Gaza, now."

South Korea on Tuesday became the latest country to issue a travel warning for the region, urging its citizens to leave Israel and Lebanon as soon as possible.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant discussed the situation on Monday, with Austin reiterating "unwavering U.S. commitment to Israel's security" in the face of threats from Iran and its proxies, the Pentagon said in a statement.

Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder said Austin and Gallant agreed that an attack Monday by an Iran-aligned militia on U.S. forces in western Iraq "marked a dangerous escalation and demonstrated Iran's destabilizing role in the region."

A U.S. defense official told VOA the attack injured several U.S. personnel.

Israel's military also Tuesday said its forces were carrying out operations in the central and southern Gaza Strip, and that Israeli aircraft conducted an airstrike in the Jenin area in the occupied West Bank.

Palestinian health officials said the strike killed four people, while an Israeli raid in the West Bank village of Aqaaba killed another four people.

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas in retaliation for the October 7 terror attack that killed 1,200 people and led to the capture of 250 hostages. Israel's counteroffensive has killed at least 39,650 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.

Some information for this story was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Taliban says millions of Afghans returning home; IOM says millions leaving  who is right?

By Ayaz Gul August 06, 2024

Afghanistan's 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 Afghanistan's history," the ministry declared.

The ministry accused the U.N. agency of issuing false and misleading figures to attract donor funding.

While neither side's figure can be independently confirmed, it's 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 country's 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.

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WFP: World needs to 'wake up' to famine in Sudan's Darfur

By Margaret Besheer August 06, 2024

A senior U.N. humanitarian official said Tuesday that the confirmation of famine in parts of Sudan's 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 Program's 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.

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Harris selects Tim Walz as running mate for US presidential run

By Patsy Widakuswara August 06, 2024

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for her campaign against former president Donald Trump in the November presidential election.

"Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families," Harris said in a text message to supporters. "I know that he will bring that same principled leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president."

The official announcement came Tuesday morning, ahead of an evening campaign event in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, featuring the Democratic Party presidential ticket.

Progressives had been rallying around the 60-year-old Walz who championed policies to their liking as governor of Minnesota. The former U.S. Army National Guard member and teacher is also seen as appealing to rural, white voters.

"Walz is a phenomenal pick, who will energize voters across the Midwest in must-win states like Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania," Democratic strategist Julie Roginsky told VOA.

A tour of states that will play key roles in deciding who wins the November election is set to follow Tuesday's announcement, with the Harris campaign making stops in Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona and Nevada.

In Walz, Democrats found a liberal who won rural conservative districts of Minnesota, who owns a gun, has military experience and was born in Nebraska, said Jennifer Lawless, professor of politics at the University of Virginia.

Walz is a "a pretty safe pick, but certainly not boring," Lawless told VOA.

"He's somebody who understands Middle America and holds these progressive policies, not because he's out of touch, but because he believes that this is the best way to move the country forward," she added.

An additional bonus: Walz is respected by unions, a strong point as Trump tries to make inroads with labor.

'Incompetent liberal'

Even before the Harris campaign formally announced Walz as her VP pick, the Trump campaign released a statement calling him an "incompetent liberal."

"It's no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate," Trump Campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. "Walz is obsessed with spreading California's dangerously liberal agenda far and wide."

A close contender for Harris' VP pick was Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democratic rising star with strong approval ratings in a state key to electoral victory.

"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," Shapiro posted on social media following the announcement.

Other figures considered by Harris included Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Trump named Senator JD Vance as his running mate during the Republican Party's nominating convention last month. Walz recently raised his profile as an effective attack dog against the Republican ticket, calling them "weird."

Vance is scheduled to carry out his own campaign tour in the so-called battleground states of Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan and North Carolina this week.

"It just highlights how radical Kamala Harris is," Vance said Tuesday about Walz. "This is a person who listened to the Hamas wing of her own party in selecting a nominee."

Harris quickly emerged as the Democratic candidate late last month after President Joe Biden announced that he would no longer seek another term in office.

Biden's poll numbers sank following a poor performance in a debate against Trump in late June, which prompted calls for him to exit the race.

VOA's Chris Hannas contributed to this story.

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India on alert at Bangladesh border, confirms Hasina in New Delhi

By Anjana Pasricha August 06, 2024

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 Hasina's 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 India's 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 Hasina's 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 Hasina's resignation the country's "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.

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Nigerian authorities warn against calling for coup after protests

By Timothy Obiezu August 06, 2024

While nationwide protests appeared to have ebbed Tuesday, the Nigerian government said it will not tolerate calls for coups after some protesters in northwest Kano and Kaduna states waved Russian flags while marching in the streets Monday.

Nigeria's defense chiefs told journalists that hoisting the Russian flags amounts to treason.

"We will not relent in pursuing those that have continued to encourage unconstitutional takeover of government or subversion or those ones that are into vandalism or destruction of lives and property," Nigerian Defense Chief General Christopher Musa said.

Thousands in Nigeria took to the streets in Lagos, Abuja and elsewhere last week to denounce President Bola Tinubu's economic policies and government. Security officers cracked down hard on protesters, using tear gas and live ammunition. Amnesty International says at least 13 protesters were killed nationwide.

On Monday, hundreds of protesters marched in northern Kaduna and Kano states, waving Russian flags and calling for Russian President Vladimir Putin to come to their aid. Nigeria's national police said nearly 900 protesters were arrested, including 30 who were carrying Russian flags.

Security analyst Kabiru Adamu criticized the military's interpretation of the protesters' intentions.

"There [are] instances where Nigerians do wave the flags of other countries," he said. "So, one is a bit surprised with this interpretation. We're in a democratic setting, and the role of security and defense organizations does not go beyond law enforcement or the implementation of security policies. They do not have in any way the role of interpreting or making judicial pronouncements."

The Russian Embassy in Abuja on Monday distanced itself from protesters using the Russian flag and pledged Moscow's support for Nigeria's democracy. But Russia has been expanding its influence in Africa and forming security alliances, especially in the coup-ridden Sahel states.

Adamu, managing director of Beacon Security and Intelligence, said the acts of the protesters might be inspired by a growing resentment for Western influence in the region.

"The policies that are being implemented by the Bola Tinubu government have the backing of Western countries, especially the institutions of [the International Monetary Fund] and World Bank," he said.

"So, when people in an organic manner endear themselves to Russia, it is perhaps an indication that they're not happy with the policies that were supported by those countries and Russia perhaps may be a better partner or ally."

Western nations, including the United States, have said Russia's influence in Africa could set back democratic norms.

But political affairs analyst Ahmed Buhari said good governance from local authorities is all that is needed.

"These people are not oblivious of the fact that there's a current wave across the Sahel," he said. "They listen to the news. They can clearly see that Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso [have] presented very young leaders who are coming up with very strong policies that seemingly look like they're going to benefit the people.

"And what I expect from the government of the day is to prove to the people that they're better friends to the people than any foreign ally at a time like this," he said.

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Thailand's former PM contender awaiting court decision on whether to dissolve party

By Rattaphol Onsanit August 06, 2024

Thai progressive leader Pita Limjaroenrat and his Move Forward party won the biggest bloc in the country's House of Representatives in elections last year. But Pita's bid to become the country's 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 country's 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 Thailand's 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.

I'm 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 you're 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.

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August 6, 2024

DOD News

Florida Guard Supports Hurricane Debby Response

Florida National Guardsmen are assisting residents of the state affected by Hurricane Debby.

In north-central Florida's Suwannee County, soldiers assigned to the Guard's 868th Engineer Company conducted high-water rescue operations today to help residents to safety after flooding from the storm.

Florida's governor ordered National Guard soldiers and airmen to prepare to respond to Debby on Aug. 1; more than 3,000 were activated.

"You can't wait until the storm hits to call up the Guard, so we get our people in uniform and into position ahead of time," Army Col. Jeremey Davis, commander of the 50th Regional Support Group, said.

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U.S.-PRC Counternarcotics Working Group Progress on Illicit Synthetic Drugs Including Fentanyl

US Department of State

Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

August 6, 2024

Last week, the United States and the People's Republic of China (PRC) convened a meeting of senior officials in Washington, DC, as part of the U.S.-PRC Counternarcotics Working Group (CNWG). This group, launched in January 2024 following the decision by President Biden and President Xi to resume bilateral cooperation on counternarcotics, has coordinated bilateral efforts to combat the global manufacturing and trafficking of illicit synthetic drugs, including fentanyl.

As part of the CNWG, officials from both countries reviewed progress in bilateral counternarcotics efforts, including the PRC's June 18 announcement of the arrest of an individual indicted in the U.S. for involvement in a money laundering scheme on behalf of the Sinaloa cartel, the June 18 scheduling announcement that included key nitazenes controlled at the international level, and the July 15 announcement to further regulate veterinary anesthetics and psychotropic drugs including xylazines. They also discussed updates on PRC action to schedule precursor chemicals used to manufacture illicit fentanyl that are controlled at the international level. Following the CNWG, the PRC announced on August 5 that they will begin scheduling three essential fentanyl precursors, a valuable step forward.

The July 2024 CNWG was chaired by the White House National Security Council staff and included representatives from the Department of State; the Department of Homeland Security, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations; the Department of the Treasury; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Department of Justice, including the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Todd D. Robinson and China Coordinator Mark Lambert hosted an additional bilateral meeting with the PRC Ministry of Public Security Director General Wei Xiaojun.

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'Milestone event': China launches first batch of satellites to establish 'Chinese Starlink'

Global Times

By Fan Anqi Published: Aug 06, 2024 11:21 PM

China successfully sent 18 Qianfan satellites into preset orbits via a Long March-6 carrier rocket launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in North China's Shanxi Province on Tuesday. These are the first batch of satellites that will be used to establish the nation's "own version of Starlink," marking a "milestone event" for the country in the global satellite internet industry.

The Qianfan megaconstellation project, or G60, was launched in 2023 with the aim of providing more extensive and high-quality communication services for domestic users. It is expected to establish a network of over 15,000 low earth orbit (LEO) wide-screen multimedia satellites in the long run, according to media report.

"This will provide users with stable, high-speed internet services, especially in remote areas or regions with inadequate communication infrastructure, effectively bridging the digital gap," Kang Guohua, a senior member of the Chinese Society of Astronautics and a professor of Aerospace Engineering at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

This year, Qianfan is projected to complete the launch of 108 satellites, and by the end of 2025 achieve regional network coverage with 648 satellites. By 2027, the constellation aims to provide global network coverage, and ultimately by 2030, encompass 15,000 satellites providing integrated services such as direct mobile connections.

SpaceX's Starlink now has about 5,500 satellites in space and is used by consumers, companies and government agencies, according to Reuters.

"In recent years, the achievements of SpaceX's Starlink as a 'disruptor' in the internet communication industry have been widely recognized. With the launch and networking of the Qianfan constellation, China has begun to make strides in this field," Kang said.

Qianfan and Starlink both utilize advanced satellite communication technology and multi-layer, multi-orbit constellation designs. However, China's Qianfan constellation places more emphasis on the multimedia functionality and broadband communication capabilities of the satellites to meet the needs of different users, Kang noted.

In terms of market maturity, Starlink has already achieved significant success in the US market and is expanding globally, while Qianfan is currently focused on providing high-quality communication services to domestic users. However, as the project progresses and the technology matures, expanding the Qianfan constellation to the international market is in the "foreseeable future," the expert said.

Kang noted that the large-scale constellation construction of Starlink has led to increasingly tight space orbits, affecting the development of other countries in the space field. He called for global cooperation to address and resolve the resulting risk of satellite collisions and increased space debris.

The establishment of the Qianfan constellation is expected to accelerate development in markets such as mobile innovation, autonomous driving, disaster prevention and reduction, and the Internet of Things, bringing significant development opportunities to the satellite internet industry, observers said.

Compared to geostationary satellites in higher orbits, LEO satellites have various advantages in the field of communication, such as being closer in distance, having lower transmission delays, lower link losses, flexible launches, diverse application scenarios, and lower overall manufacturing costs.

Based on these advantages, countries around the world are actively deploying LEO satellite constellations, making it an emerging industry hotspot.

China currently has three megaconstellation projects with an expected scale reaching 10,000 satellites: the G60 project, the state-owned China Satellite Network Group Co.'s GW Constellation project and leading private space firm Landspace's Honghu-3 Constellation.

The GW Constellation is expected to launch a total of 12,992 satellites, while the Honghu-3 is planning to launch 10,000 satellites on 160 orbital planes. In total, the number of satellite applications in China has approached 40,000.

It is expected that in the next two to three years, China's commercial aerospace industry will experience "explosive growth," Dai Zheng, general manager of Rocket R&D of Landspace, told the Global Times in an earlier interview.

Starting in the second half of 2025 or the first half of 2026, China's satellite internet constellations will see high-density launches, Dai said.

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August 6, 2024

By Joseph Clark, DOD News

Austin Charts Further Progress in Deepening U.S.-Australia Alliance

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III reaffirmed the impenetrable bond between the U.S. and Australia after hosting high-level talks today with key Australian officials.

Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken hosted their Australian counterparts, Defense Minister Richard Marles and Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong, at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, for the 34th Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations, or AUSMIN.

The officials announced new steps to enhance force posture and defense industrial cooperation between the U.S. and Australia, further building upon recent strides in the longstanding alliance.

"Today's meetings have once again demonstrated the extraordinary strength of our unbreakable alliance with Australia," Austin said during a joint news conference following the talks.

He added that today's discussions were guided by the U.S. and Australia's common vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Austin also announced the two countries are taking steps to deepen force posture cooperation with upgrades to critical air bases in Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

"We're also increasing the presence of rotational U.S. Forces in Australia," he said. "All this will mean more maritime patrol aircraft and reconnaissance aircraft operating from bases across northern Australia. It will also mean more frequent rotational bomber deployments."

The U.S. and Australia are also increasing defense industrial base cooperation.

Austin announced that the two countries are aiming to sign memorandums of understanding by the end of the year that will support in the production of critical munitions.

One agreement would support the manufacturing of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems in Australia by 2025.

A second agreement would support the co-production, co-sustainment and co-development of the Precision Strike Missile. The two countries have agreed to stand up a joint program office for that endeavor in early 2025.

"Together, these efforts will help ensure that we have the capability and the capacity that we'll need for decades to come," Austin said.

Austin said both countries will also continue to advance their defense ties with other regional allies and partners throughout the Indo-Pacific and build upon the trilateral AUKUS security partnership with the U.K.

"We got a lot done today," Austin said. "We'll keep building on our joint achievements over the past 3 1/2 years. And we'll keep charting an ambitious course forward."

Today's talks in Annapolis cap a series of engagements with key allies in the Indo-Pacific over the past 10 days as the Defense Department continues to strengthen partnerships to support a shared vision for peace, stability and deterrence throughout the region.

Last week, Austin concluded his 11th visit to the region with stops in Japan and the Philippines where he met alongside Blinken with key allies throughout the region.

While in Japan, the two U.S. officials met with Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara and Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa as part of this year's U.S.-Japan Security Consultative Committee meeting in Tokyo.

Austin and Kihara also met separately with South Korea's defense minister for a trilateral meeting, a key component of the U.S., South Korea and Japan security cooperation dialogue.

From Tokyo, Austin and Blinken traveled to Manila, the Philippines, where they met with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo as part of the dialogue as part of the fourth Philippines-United States 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.

The series of engagements mark a continuation of President Joe Biden's strategy of sustained engagement in the United States' priority theater of operations.

In previewing Austin's trip, a senior defense official remarked that it would represent "the 10 most consequential days for U.S. defense ties in the Indo-Pacific since the start of the administration."

"AUSMIN marks Day 10, and I think you'll find that, amid a crowded news cycle, we were right," the official said yesterday ahead today's talks in Annapolis.

"This administration has spent the past three-and-a-half years delivering major results with Indo-Pacific allies and partners, and these 10 days are all about taking that work to the next level," he said.

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles, and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong Before the Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations

US Department of State

Remarks

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

U.S. Naval Academy

Annapolis, Maryland

August 6, 2024



SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. It's a great pleasure - both professional and personal - to welcome Penny, to welcome Richard, to welcome the entire team here for AUSMIN. I think we don't need much proof, but here is more evidence of it, that the United States and Australia get along swimmingly. We've seen that in Paris; we see that - (laughter) - again here today. (Laughter.) Yeah.

FOREIGN MINISTER WONG: Yeah, we know. We know. (Laughter.)

DEPUTY SECRETARY CAMPBELL: This should be closed to press. (Laughter.)

FOREIGN MINISTER WONG: You're so provocative. (Laughter.)

SECRETARY BLINKEN: But we - no, we swim together. (Laughter.) And here we are. (Laughter.)

To both of you, and all - to everyone here, thank you, thank you, thank you for coming together for AUSMIN. We are building on Prime Minister Albanese's visit in October of last year. We're building on the last AUSMIN we had, where you so graciously hosted us, and we wanted to return - more than return the favor.

As the President said last October, our alliance - the alliance between Australia and the United States - is an anchor to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, and not just the Indo-Pacific - globally. Deepening cooperation across the pillars of our alliance - security, economic, climate, clean energy - these have been the hallmarks of the work that we've done over the last few years.

On security, we're working together to advance stability, prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, and we stand together in addressing threats to peace and security. We've made extraordinary progress under AUKUS, as well as bilaterally, toward having seamless defense cooperation and innovation between our countries. And we deeply appreciate Australia's commitments as well at the NATO summit to Ukraine's defense.

Economically, Australia and the United States are simply essential partners. The United States is the largest foreign investor in Australia, and the largest recipient of outbound FDI from Australia. This relationship is genuinely an innovation alliance, as our leaders stated in October. We have the public and private sectors cooperating in emerging technology, from quantum to AI. We're working together to facilitate high-quality infrastructure in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, and of course we co-hosted the first Pacific Banking Forum in July in the United States to ensure banking services in the Pacific.

And finally, on climate and clean energy, we're partnering together for the clean energy transition. Our Critical Minerals Taskforce is working to ensure sustainable, resilient, secure critical minerals and clean energy not just for us, but for the entire world.

So in these and so many other areas, our countries are bound together. But this meeting, bringing together our foreign policy and security teams, is a foundational element of the relationship and all the work that we're doing together. We couldn't be more pleased to have you here. So welcome. We look forward to the work.

Penny?

FOREIGN MINISTER WONG: Thank you, Tony. Thank you, Lloyd. It is such a great pleasure for Richard and I and our teams to be here with you. And I start by reflecting again on our relationship and the alliance, which is about who we are, it's about what we stand for, and it's also about what we want in the world. And if you look through the agenda we have, the work that we are doing together across the different lines of effort in our partnership, it is wide and it is deep, and it is being renewed over and again.

Obviously, I will say we also meet today in the shadow of the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. I want to - we want to acknowledge your leadership and your work on that, the extraordinary efforts, Tony, you've engaged in to broker peace and to advance President Biden's ceasefire proposal. It's - a ceasefire has been urgent for months; it's never been more urgent than it is now.

That is only one domain in which the United States and others, but particularly the U.S., is having to show leadership. Obviously Ukraine too, and in the Indo-Pacific. In the Indo-Pacific, the security guarantee by the United - of the United States has enabled a long period of prosperity and peace that we have enjoyed. And it has never been more vital. It's never been more vital.

We see this AUSMIN as another opportunity for us to, together, work at how we rise to the challenges for today to ensure that our alliance, our partnership, our work together is fit for the times, delivers for our shared objections and aspirations and for the region that we live in and we trade in.

We are stronger together. And at a personal level, can I say how much we appreciate our personal friendships, and how much as an ally and friend we respect and appreciate the work of the both of you and this administration, and the priority you have given and continue to give to alliances and partnerships. It is an extraordinary achievement to date and ongoing.

SECRETARY AUSTIN: Thanks, Penny. Deputy Prime Minister Marles and Foreign Minister Wong, welcome to Annapolis. You can tell by looking at the faces of all these sailors in the room that they're delighted to be here at what they believe is the center of the universe. (Laughter.) And welcome to the 34th Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations. And it's great to be here with my friend and colleague, Secretary Blinken. Thanks to the United States Naval Academy for hosting us.

This is our third AUSMIN together, and each time we've made historic strides and strengthened our alliance. And I'm confident that we'll continue to deliver today. We're poised to advance our - advance major force posture initiatives. We'll take steps to deepen our defense industrial cooperation on co-development, co-production, and co-sustainment, and that includes supporting Australia's Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise. We'll also identify new opportunities with likeminded allies and partners, including Japan, India, and the Philippines.

For more than a century, the United States and Australia have worked shoulder to shoulder. Australia remains an indispensable ally. We're working together today to tackle shared security challenges, from coercive behavior by the PRC, to Russia's war of choice against Ukraine, to the turmoil in the Middle East. And I know that this year's AUSMIN will deliver results for both of our peoples.

And so Richard and Penny, thanks for making the trip. And I look forward to some great discussions.

DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER MARLES: Well, thank you, Lloyd. Thank you, Tony. It's great for Penny and I to be here. Great to be here at the Naval Academy. It's - we have a new chief of defense force since when we last met you. Admiral Johnston is the first admiral - first member of the navy - to be our chief of defense force for quite some time. So as we are experiencing a navy takeover of our defense force - (laughter) - it feels particularly apt that we are here at Annapolis.

This is the 34th AUSMIN. It's the third that the four of us have had the honor of being the custodians of, and as we meet today, when we think about the last couple of years in which we've been working so closely together, it really has been a period of intense activity but intense achievement. I mean, we now have a pathway forward in terms of Australia acquiring a nuclear-powered submarine capability from the United States and the United Kingdom under the banner of AUKUS, and we're making progress in terms of AUKUS Pillar II as well.

If you look at the force posture of the United States on the Australian continent, we've seen a growth in Marine rotation in Darwin. We look forward in the coming years to the Submarine Rotational Force in Perth. But in fact, that force posture lay down of the United States in Australia is across all domains, from U.S. Army border craft through to logistics at Bandiana. These are all decisions that we've taken in past AUSMINs, but we're actually implementing; like, there's a real change. And it is a significant contribution to integrated deterrence within in our region, but it's a really significant contribution to the peace of the Indo-Pacific.

We're working more closely together in our industrial bases. The legislation that went through the Congress last year, which was complemented by the legislation that went through our parliament in March of this year, has transformed the seamless ecosystem between our two defense industrial bases, which are now yielding real dividends in guided weapons, for example.

And we are seeing a blossoming of relationships within the Indo-Pacific - trilaterals between ourselves and Japan; the work that you've been doing with Japan and Korea and what that has unlocked in terms of the ability for us to work with those countries as well. And all of that is giving rise to a much safer region.

I really want to echo the point that Penny made. I mean, as a global power, you've got so much on your plate. We look to your leadership in the Middle East. We very much look to your leadership in Ukraine. But we could not be happier with the extent of your presence in the Indo-Pacific. It - I mean, it's been wonderful, genuinely wonderful, and for that we thank you.

But it needs to be the case, because we are living in a difficult and fraught world, where your alliances with the countries in the Indo-Pacific like Korea, and like Japan, and of course your alliance with us is completely central to our worldview, to our national security. But we really want to thank you for making those alliances the heart of the way in which you've been going about positioning America in the world. It really is what differentiates the U.S. from everyone else, and we are very much pleased and proud to be a partner in that, and we look forward to the discussions today.

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The European Union lists further Belarusian individuals

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

2024-08-06

On 5 August 2024, the European Union announced a new package of individual sanctions against Belarus amid the ongoing deterioration of the country's human rights situation.

"With the imposition of new sanctions against the regime of the Belarusian dictator in response to the persecution and imprisonment of the opposition, we reiterate clearly that systemic human rights violations and erosion of democratic principles will not be tolerated," said the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis.

The EU listed further 28 individuals, including:

various members of the judiciary, involved in the persecution of opponents of the Lukashenka regime and members of civil society and journalists, and who have issued sentences;

Furthermore, restrictive measures are also imposed on the heads of various correctional institutions for their role in the torture and ill-treatment of prisoners, including political prisoners;

Lastly, several long-time Lukashenka supporters who benefitted from the regime are also targeted. These include well-known regime propagandists and entrepreneurs.

EU restrictive measures against Belarus now apply to 261 individuals and 37 entities.

Those designated are subject to an asset freeze, and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. Natural persons are also subject to a travel ban, preventing them from entering or transiting through EU territories.

For more information, please click here: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/policies/sanctions-against-belarus/

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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan

Prime Minister of Canada - Justin Trudeau

August 6, 2024

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein of Jordan about the situation in the Middle East.

The Prime Minister expressed his deep concern over the risk of expanded conflict between Israel and Iran as well as Hezbollah and other Iran-aligned groups. The leaders underscored the urgent need to avoid further escalation which puts the lives of civilians in the region at risk.

Prime Minister Trudeau spoke about the importance of promoting peace and security in the Middle East and highlighted Canada's enduring support for a two-state solution. He emphasized the right of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, security, and dignity, without fear.

The Prime Minister thanked the King for his leadership in promoting dialogue and stability in the region, improving access to humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in Gaza, and securing a path toward lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians.

The leaders agreed to remain in close contact as the situation continues to evolve.

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PLA continues Peace Unity-2024 exercises in Africa

Global Times

Joint drills help African countries enhance counter-terrorism, counter-piracy capabilities: experts

By Liu Xuanzun and Guo Yuandan Published: Aug 06, 2024 11:26 PM

The Chinese People's Liberation Army's (PLA) Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises in Africa is progressing smoothly, with a Chinese warship kicking off a joint naval drill with Mozambique on Tuesday after two other Chinese vessels wrapped up their joint naval drill with Tanzania earlier on Monday.

The PLA Navy's Type 071 comprehensive landing ship Qilianshan is joining the Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises from Tuesday to Thursday, having arrived in waters off Mozambique on Friday, practicing training courses including maritime patrol, VBSS (visit, board, search and seizure), maritime rescue, as well as counter-terrorism and counter-piracy with Mozambique, the PLA Navy said in a press release on Monday.

On its way to Mozambique from Tanzania, the Qilianshan conducted joint search and rescue as well as counter-terrorism and counter-piracy training in preparation of the joint exercises, the PLA Navy confirmed.

The start of the joint naval exercise with Mozambique came after the conclusion of joint naval exercises with Tanzania, also under the banner of the Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises.

Vessels participating in the China-Tanzania joint exercise wrapped up their sea phase training courses and returned to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on Monday, according to a China Central Television (CCTV) report.

Against the background of safeguarding maritime transportation security in waters to the east of Tanzania, the joint naval drill featured the PLA Navy's Type 071 comprehensive landing ship Wuzhishan and Type 052D guided missile destroyer Hefei as well as four patrol vessels from Tanzania, CCTV reported.

They practiced main gun shooting, joint search and rescue, counter-terrorism and counter-piracy, VBSS and joint patrol maneuvers, the report said.

The land phase of the Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises has begun to incorporate tactical training, as Chinese and Tanzanian forces have been practicing drills together at a comprehensive training center in Mapinga, according to a press release by the PLA Central Theater Command on Sunday.

With a focus on counter-terrorism and counter-piracy nature of the joint exercises, Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military expert, told the Global Times that the drills are of pragmatic significance in Africa where terrorist and pirate attacks occur frequently.

The joint drills will help African countries enhance their counter-terrorism and counter-piracy capabilities, which is conducive to peace and stability in the region, Zhang said.

Zhang also pointed out that this is the first time China had held joint exercises with African countries which included navy and army participation at the same time. This will also boost the PLA's own interoperability among different military services and branches as well as different theater commands, he said.

Another Chinese military expert who requested anonymity told the Global Times on Tuesday that the Peace Unity-2024 features long-distance traveling, three participating countries, multiple services, branches and theater commands, realistic training courses and significant scale.

Such complexity reflects that the pragmatic military cooperation among China and African countries has reached a new level, the expert said.

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Harris's VP pick has extensive China ties

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz taught in China in 1989 and later became an outspoken critic of its government.

By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2024.08.06 -- June 4 this year was a significant day for Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Not only did it mark 35 years since the 1989 massacre of student protesters in Tiananmen Square in China, where he taught English and American history as a young college graduate the same year.

It was also his 30th wedding anniversary.

But that was no coincidence for the 60-year-old who on Tuesday was selected as U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate for November's election with former President Donald Trump.

"He wanted to have a date he'll always remember," Walz's wife, Gwen, told the Scottsbluff Sun-Herald before their 1994 wedding.

The Walzs also took their two-week "honeymoon" to China - with some 60 American high-school students in tow - for "sightseeing and classes on culture, education and history," the newspaper reported.

After settling in Minnesota, he and his wife established a private company that organized annual summer trips to China for American high school students, further solidifying their ties to the east.

It was part of Walz's foresight about China's growing significance.

"China was coming, and that's the reason that I went," Walz said of his ties to the country in an interview with The Hill in 2007 after his election to the U.S. Congress in Minnesota in the 2006 midterms.

Congressional oversight

The Hill in 2007 described Walz as "an accidental politician," having only entered politics after witnessing a supporter of the Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry being "hustled out" of a rally for President George W. Bush during the 2004 presidential campaign.

Yet while Walz had described his time teaching at a school in Guangdong as "an excellent experience" that left him believing "I'll never be treated that well again," once in office he became a staunch and outspoken critic of China's government.

He joined the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, an oversight body created by President Bill Clinton in 2000 in a deal with Congress to approve his decision to admit China to the World Trade Organization despite criticisms of its human rights record.

There he spoke out for the need for the U.S. administrations to continue "dialogue" with the Chinese government to end its human rights abuses against the Tibetan people, whose culture he said cannot be "confined" by Beijing to "a museum or to a market of handicrafts."

"Renewing dialogue must be genuine and productive, and it cannot be just another guise for wasting time or going through the motions," Walz said in 2016 following a trip to Tibet, Beijing and Hong Kong.

"The human rights of the Tibetan people must be strengthened and protected," he said, citing "a life-changing lunch" with the Dalai Lama.

The same year, he also spoke out against reductions in funding for the U.S. military by citing, among other things, "tensions rising with our trading partner, China, and the seeds of potential unrest in the Pacific," including Beijing building islands in the South China Sea.

Dueling VPs

Walz is also not the only vice presidential hopeful in the 2024 campaign with an outsized focus on China in his political career.

Trump's handpicked No. 2 for his third campaign for the White House, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, has since coming to office in 2022 become one of the most prominent advocates of the view that U.S. support for Ukraine should be reduced to prepare for a possible war with China.

While the 40-year-old Vance was only five when Walz first went to China, their perspectives on how to deal with the rise of America's biggest geopolitical rival are sure to be teased out in debate. Vance on Tuesday said he "absolutely wants" to debate his opposite number.

For Walz, the separation between the Chinese people and the authoritarian government that dominates their lives is likely to be at the forefront, driven home by the personal and professional ties he has made to the country since he first went there as a college grad.

"If they had the proper leadership, there are no limits on what they could accomplish," he told the Scottsbluff Sun-Herald in 1990. "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."

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.

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Press Statement of Spokesman for DPRK Foreign Ministry

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, August 6 (KCNA) -- A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea released the following press statement on August 6:

Germany announced on August 2 that it joined the UN Command, a multinational aggression mechanism led by the U.S.

The UN Command is an illegal mechanism for aggressive war that the U.S. faked up by abusing the name of the UN to drag the armed forces of its vassal states into the Korean War ignited by it in 1950.

The DPRK Foreign Ministry strongly denounces Germany's entry into the UN Command, regarding it as an act of wrecking peace and stability on the Koran peninsula and aggravating the situation.

The 30th session of the UN General Assembly in 1975 adopted a resolution on dissolving the UN Command in accordance with the unanimous will and demand of the UN member states desirous of peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.

The U.S. is attempting to revive the function of the UN Command which should have been extinct in the last century. This is aimed at turning the UN Command into the second NATO of Asian version by dragging its allies and thus militarily deter the DPRK and its neighboring countries.

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.

Germany should bear in mind that its military intervention in the Korean peninsula, the biggest hotbed in the world, will act as a vicious factor in keeping up its security and image.

Germany's entry into the UN Command is clearly not helpful to maintaining peace on the Korean peninsula and the rest of the region but an act which has a serious negative effect on the development interests of the DPRK.

The present ever-escalating military confrontation on the Korean peninsula demands the DPRK take more thorough measures for bolstering up its self-defensive capabilities to defend the sovereignty, security and interests of the state.

The DPRK Foreign Ministry notifies in advance that Germany's entry into the UN Command will inevitably aggravate the military and political situation on the Korean peninsula and the rest of the region, and that Germany will be held wholly responsible for all the consequences arising therefrom. -0-

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Pakistani National with Ties to Iran Charged in Connection with Foiled Plot to Assassinate a Politician or U.S. Government Official

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

The Defendant Allegedly Traveled to New York City to Hire Hitmen to Murder a Politician or U.S. Government Official on U.S. Soil

Earlier today, a complaint was unsealed in Brooklyn charging Asif Merchant, also known as Asif Raza Merchant, 46, with murder-for-hire as part of an alleged scheme to assassinate a politician or U.S. government official on U.S. soil. Law enforcement foiled the charged plot before any attack could be carried out. Merchant is in federal custody.

"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," said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. "The Justice Department will spare no resource to disrupt and hold accountable those who would seek to carry out Iran's lethal plotting against American citizens and will not tolerate attempts by an authoritarian regime to target American public officials and endanger America's national security."

"This dangerous murder-for-hire plot exposed in today's complaint allegedly was orchestrated by a Pakistani national with close ties to Iran and is straight out of the Iranian playbook," said FBI Director Christopher Wray. "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."

"The complaint unsealed today underscores, yet again, that those who engage in lethal plotting on U.S. soil will face the full force of the American justice system," said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division. "The targeting of former and current officials by foreign actors is an affront to our sovereignty and our democratic institutions and the Department of Justice will use every possible tool to expose and disrupt this egregious activity."

"Working on behalf of others overseas, Merchant planned the murder of U.S. government officials on American soil," said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. "This prosecution demonstrates that this office and the entire Department of Justice will take swift and decisive action to protect our nation's security, our government officials and our citizens from foreign threats

"Fortunately, the assassins Merchant allegedly tried to hire were undercover FBI Agents," said Acting Assistant Director Christie Curtis of the FBI New York Field Office. "This case underscores the dedication and formidable efforts of our agents, analysts and prosecutors in New York, Houston, and Dallas. Their success in neutralizing this threat not only prevented a tragic outcome but also reaffirms the FBI's commitment to protecting our nation and its citizens from both domestic and international threats."

According to allegations contained in the complaint and related publicly filed court documents, Merchant orchestrated a plot to assassinate a politician or U.S. government official on U.S. soil. In approximately April 2024, after spending time in Iran, Merchant arrived in the United States from Pakistan and contacted a person he believed could assist him with the scheme. That person reported Merchant's conduct to law enforcement and became a confidential source (the CS).

In early June, Merchant met the CS in New York and explained his assassination plot. Merchant told the CS that the opportunity he had for the CS was not a one-time opportunity and would be ongoing. Merchant then made a "finger gun" motion with his hand, indicating that the opportunity was related to a killing. Merchant further stated that the intended victims would be "targeted here," meaning in the United States. Merchant instructed the CS to arrange meetings with individuals whom Merchant could hire to carry out these actions. Merchant explained that his plot involved multiple criminal schemes: (1) stealing documents or USB drives from a target's home; (2) planning a protest; and (3) killing a politician or government official.

At that meeting, Merchant began planning potential assassination scenarios and quizzed the CS on how he would kill a target in the various scenarios. Specifically, Merchant asked the CS to explain how a target would die in different scenarios. Merchant told the CS that there would be "security [] all around" the person.

Merchant stated that the assassination would occur after he left the United States and he would communicate with the CS from overseas using code words. The CS asked whether Merchant had spoken to the unidentified "party" back home with whom Merchant was working. Merchant responded that he had and that the party back home told him to "finalize" the plan and leave the United States.

In mid-June, Merchant met with the purported hitmen, who were in fact undercover U.S. law enforcement officers (the UCs) in New York. Merchant advised the UCs that he was looking for three services from them: theft of documents, arranging protests at political rallies, and for them to kill a "political person." Merchant stated that the hitmen would receive instructions on who to kill either the last week of August or the first week of September, after Merchant had departed the United States.

Merchant then began arranging means to obtain $5,000 in cash to pay the UCs as an advance payment for the assassination, which he eventually received with assistance from an individual overseas. On June 21, Merchant met with the UCs in New York and paid them the $5,000 advance. After Merchant paid the $5,000 to the UCs, one of the UCs stated, "now we're bonded," to which Merchant responded "yes." The UC then stated "Now we know we're going forward. We're doing this," to which Merchant responded "Yes, absolutely."

Merchant subsequently made flight arrangements and planned to leave the United States on Friday, July 12, 2024. On July 12, law enforcement agents placed Merchant under arrest before he could leave the country. Merchant has stated that he has a wife and children in Iran and a wife and children in Pakistan.

The FBI is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sara K. Winik, Gilbert Rein, and Douglas Pravda for the Eastern District of New York and Trial Attorneys David Smith and Joshua Champagne of the National Security Division's Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Complaint

Topic: National Security

Components: Office of the Attorney General

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Security Division (NSD)

USAO - New York, Eastern

Press Release Number: 24-975

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Iran: Statement by the Spokesperson on the execution of another person sentenced for 2022 protests

European External Action Service (EEAS)

06.08.2024

EEAS Press Team

Gholamreza Resaei was executed on Tuesday by Iranian authorities, after being arrested and sentenced to death in connection with the 2022 protests in Iran.

The European Union condemns in the strongest term the use of capital punishment as a response to domestic dissent. The EU urges the Iranian authorities to immediately end the practice of imposing and carrying out death sentences against protesters, and calls once again on Iran to pursue a consistent policy towards the abolition of the death penalty altogether.

The EU reiterates its firm and principled opposition to the use of capital punishment at all times and in all circumstances. 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 is a definite punishment that makes possible miscarriages of justice irreversible.

It is also imperative for the Iranian authorities to uphold the accused individuals' due process rights, and ensure that those who are under any form of detention or imprisonment are not subject to any form of mistreatment.

The EU urges the Iranian authorities to uphold their obligations under international law, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Iran is a party.

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U.S. Charges Pakistani Man With Alleged Ties To Iran In Foiled Assassination Plot

By RFE/RL August 06, 2024

The United States on August 6 charged a Pakistani man with alleged ties to Iran in connection with a foiled murder-for-hire plot to assassinate a U.S. politician or government officials in the United States.

The U.S. Justice Department identified the suspect as Asif Merchant, 46, who is in U.S. custody. The department did not name the politician whom the suspect allegedly wanted to assassinate, but said in a news release that law enforcement foiled the plot before any attack could be carried out.

A criminal complaint unsealed in Brooklyn, New York, on August 6 said Merchant sought to recruit people in the United States to carry out the plot in retaliation for the killing of Qassem Soleimani, a former commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps' (IRGC's) elite Quds Force, who was assassinated in January 2020.

Then-President Donald Trump approved the drone strike on Soleimani. Iran has repeatedly vowed revenge for the high-profile killing.

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 Brooklyn.

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, the Justice Department news release said. Merchant instructed the informant to arrange meetings with individuals whom Merchant could hire to carry out the assassination and other acts.

Merchant met in June with the would-be hitmen, who were in fact undercover U.S. law enforcement officers.

Merchant said he had received instructions to "finalize" the plan and leave the United States from the unidentified "party" he had been working with. He told the undercover agents that they would receive instructions in either the last week of August or the first week of September after he had departed the United States.

Merchant subsequently made flight arrangements and planned to leave the United States on July 12. Law enforcement agents placed him under arrest before he could leave the country. The complaint said a federal judge ordered Merchant detained on July 17.

Trump, the Republican Party's nominee in the November 5 presidential election, was wounded on July 13 in an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Attorney General Merrick Garland said that investigators have found no evidence that Merchant had any connection to the attempt on Trump's life. Investigators have said the shooting, which wounded Trump in his right ear, was carried out by a lone 20-year-old gunman.

U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York said Merchant "planned the murder of U.S. government officials on American soil" working on behalf of others overseas.

"This prosecution demonstrates that this office and the entire Department of Justice will take swift and decisive action to protect our nation's security, our government officials, and our citizens from foreign threats."

The FBI is investigating the case. Merchant has said that he has a wife and children in Iran and a wife and children in Pakistan. Avraham Moskowitz, a lawyer for Merchant, did not respond to a request for comment, Reuters reported.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pakistan-iran-plot- assassination-fbi/33068252.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Iranian plot to kill US officials, politicians tied to Pakistani man

By Jeff Seldin August 06, 2024

An Iranian plot to kill former U.S. President Donald Trump appears to have centered on a Pakistani man with ties to Tehran who hoped to also target other high-profile politicians and officials.

The U.S. Justice Department on Tuesday unsealed charges against 46-year-old Asif Merchant, saying he traveled to the U.S. this April in search of hitmen willing to take on multiple jobs.

But according to the criminal complaint, the plot fizzled after the person Merchant contacted in his effort to carry out the scheme reached out to law enforcement.

"This dangerous murder-for-hire plot exposed in [Tuesday's] complaint 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," he said.

The criminal complaint unsealed in New York does not identify any specific target for Merchant's plot, but the release comes just weeks after U.S. officials said they had increased security for the former president due to a threat linked to Tehran.

And the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee said Tuesday that the threats were one and the same.

"I was previously briefed concerning the Iranian threat and the circumstances of Mr. Merchant's arrest and questioned then-Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle on whether she had reviewed the intelligence concerning the Iranian threat," Republican Representative Mike Turner said in a statement.

"She confirmed to me that she read the intelligence and was aware of this Iranian murder-for-hire plot," Turner added, referring to a July 22 hearing on the failures to prevent an unrelated assassination attempt against Trump on July 13 during a campaign rally in western Pennsylvania.

Tuesday's charges are the latest in a growing list of foiled plots designed to kill Americans and other enemies of Iran on U.S. soil.

This past January, the U.S. charged three men, one of whom was based in Iran, in a plot to murder two U.S. residents in the state of Maryland.

The U.S. has also brought charges in plots targeting Masih Alinejad, an Iranian American human rights activist and VOA Persian TV host and a murder-for-hire scheme targeting former U.S. national security adviser Ambassador John Bolton.

Many of the recent threats, including the ones targeting Bolton and Trump, stem from Tehran's desire to seek revenge for the Trump-ordered January 2020 drone strike in Baghdad that killed Qassem Soleimani, the leader of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force.

"We have said many times that we've been tracking Iranian threats against former politicians. We've been very clear about that," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday.

"We consider this a national and homeland security matter of the highest priority," she said. "We have invested extraordinary resources in developing additional information about these threats, disrupting individuals involved in these threats, enhancing protective arrangements and potential targets of these threats, engaging with foreign partners and directly warning Iran."

The court-appointed lawyer for the defendant in this latest plot targeting Trump, and others, declined comment when contacted by VOA.

But the charging documents allege Merchant traveled from Pakistan to Turkey and then to Houston, Texas, in April, after spending about two weeks in Iran.

Once he landed in the U.S., the criminal complaint states, Merchant immediately began recruiting individuals to assist him with the plan, telling the informant that he could earn up to $100,000 and that the scheme would target multiple individuals.

"[The] people who will be targeted are the ones who are hurting Pakistan and the world, [the] Muslim world. These are not normal people," Merchant said, according to the charging documents.

Steal, plan, kill

During meetings in New York in June, Merchant allegedly sketched out a three-part plan that involved stealing documents or computer files from a target's home, planning protests and then killing the targets on U.S. soil.

Merchant is charged with giving two undercover agents posing as hitmen a $5,000 advanced payment in late June to carry out the plot, adding more money would be coming after he returned to Pakistan.

U.S. law enforcement officials arrested Merchant on July 12, before he was able to leave the U.S.

"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," said Attorney General Merrick Garland in a statement Tuesday.

"The Justice Department will spare no resource to disrupt and hold accountable those who would seek to carry out Iran's lethal plotting."

U.S. officials expect there will be no let-up in Tehran's attempts to get revenge.

"We need to recognize the brazenness of the Iranian regime," the FBI's Wray told U.S. lawmakers during a hearing late last month. "I expect we're going to see more of it. I expect there will be more coming on that."

And some experts warn that even if some of the Iranian attempts appear amateurish, they need to be taken seriously.

"Much like Iranian projectiles, sometimes quantity has a quality of its own," said Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

"On the one hand, some of these things may sound cartoonish or too far-fetched, but on the other hand, there's a persistence behind it, which is worrisome," he told VOA. "My fear is that it's going to be throwing everything or what it can at the wall and seeing what sticks."

Patsy Widakuswara and Lynn Davis contributed to this report.

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Iran rejects claims about assassination plots in US

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Aug 7, 2024

New York, IRNA -- Iran's Permanent Mission to the United Nations has reacted harshly to false claims and accusations leveled against the Islamic Republic regarding political assassination attempts on American soil, including former President Donald Trump.

According to IRNA, the Iranian Mission said on Tuesday local time, in response to questions about anti-Iran claims linking the country with a Pakistani accused of political assassinations on American soil, said: We have not received any reports on this matter from the US government. However, it is evident that the modus operandi in question contradicts the Iranian government's policy of legally prosecuting the murderer of General Soleimani".

Based on American media reports, the US Justice Department claims that 46-year-old Pakistani national named Asif Merchan is suspected of collaborating with Iran to plot and assassinate political figures, including Trump.

The media quoted even an official who claimed that a probe by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) showed that several current and former government officials across the political spectrum, including Trump were the targets of this plot.

The indictment in the case, according to the media, published on Tuesday prompted authorities to increase the security of Trump and several other officials.

On July 13, while delivering a speech at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Trump was evacuated off the stage by the security after a young man named Thomas Matthew Crooks fired at him multiple times, injuring his right ear.

Iran has, time and again, rejected attempts to implicate the country into the incident. The Foreign Ministry said it strongly rejects any involvement in the armed attack on Trump or "claims about Iran's intention for such an action, considering such allegations to have malicious political motives and objective".

Soon after the incident, Iran's UN mission in a statement, also rejected reports about Iran's role in the assassination attempt on Trump calling them "baseless and biased".

"From the perspective of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Trump is a criminal who must be prosecuted and punished in a court of law for ordering the assassination of General Soleimani," the Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran said in a statement. "Iran has chosen the legal path to bring him to justice."

Iran's anti-terror icon General Soleimani was assassinated in a US drone strike near Baghdad Airport upon a direct order from then President Trump. Iran says it is still determined to "prosecute Trump" for his role in ordering the killing of Soleimani in 2020.

On Tuesday, CNN TV also claimed that American intelligence officials had discovered a possible Iranian plan to kill Trump, contradicting its own report that earlier said it had nothing to do with the attempt to assassinate him by Thomas Matthew Crooks during the Pennsylvania rally. CNN had also reported that the information obtained from a human source led authorities to increase security around Trump in recent weeks.

4399

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August 5, 2024

Release

Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

Today, 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. 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. Secretary Austin provided an update on measures to strengthen U.S. military posture in the region in light of this escalating situation.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3862362/

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South Korea warns against North's hacking of construction data

North Korea believed to be seeking data to support a development plan launched in January.

By Taejun Kang for RFA 2024.08.05 -- South Korea's cybersecurity authorities warned about attempts by North Korea to hack construction and machinery information to steal data to support its development efforts.

There has been a sharp increase this year in North Korea's hacking attempts to steal such information, said the Korea Cybersecurity Intelligence Community, which includes the main spy agency, prosecution service, police and military, in a joint statement.

The North's hacking groups used the "watering hole" method, which targets a large number of users by infecting websites they commonly visit, and malicious codes to steal information, they added.

In particular, the North Korean hacking group Kimsuky distributed the malware in January this year through the website of a professional organization in South Korea's construction sector, according to the authorities.

The malware was hidden in secure authentication software used to log into the website, which infected the computer systems of employees of local governments, public institutions and construction companies who accessed the website.

The authorities said North Korean hackers were seeking such information to help their country build plants and develop cities.

In fact, North Korea launched a "regional development 20A10 policy" in January this year, which mandates the establishment of industrial factories in 20 counties per year for the next 10 years.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presented the plan to delegates of the Supreme People's Assembly in Pyongyang on Jan. 15.

The plan is based on a project in North Korea's Kimhwa County, in Kangwon Province, that was launched after the area was damaged by floods. Over the past two years, factories have been built, supplying food, clothes, building materials, paper and consumer goods.

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.

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Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of Jordan Ayman Safadi

6 August 2024 20:28

1486-06-08-2024

On August 6, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Ayman Safadi at the Jordanian side's initiative.

The ministers discussed military and political developments in the Middle East, emphasising the need to cease fire in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict zone and de-escalate tensions in the region as soon as possible. It was highlighted that both Moscow and Amman called on all the parties involved to exercise restraint in order to avoid catastrophic consequences for the entire Middle East.

The parties agreed to maintain regular contacts on current issues on the bilateral and international agenda.

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Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's answer to a question from TASS news agency on the interview by the Ambassador of France to Russia Pierre Levy with the Russian media

6 August 2024 09:56

1481-06-08-2024

Question: The Russian media have recently published an interview with Ambassador of France to Russia Pierre Levy. In it, he shared his assessment of the current international situation and the relations between Russia and France, just before completing his mission here and leaving our country. In particular, his Excellency the Ambassador said that a multipolar world order existed well before February 2022. He went on to suggest that his country suggested ways of improving the system of international relations and enhancing collective efforts in the interests of peace and security. He also talked about France as being on the frontlines of efforts to settle the Ukraine crisis. How would you comment on the French diplomat's statements?

Maria Zakharova: We read his interview. My first point is that the Ambassador was wide of the mark when he said that Paris suggested undertaking collective action in the interests of peace and security. How strange to hear this from someone representing a country which is part of a military bloc, which, in turn, has been pursuing an eastward geopolitical expansion policy for many years now. Moreover, it has been acting this way despite the assurances it gave to the Soviet leaders not to move in the eastern direction by an inch. This also includes the commitments it assumed at the highest level, including within the OSCE to abide by the principle of equal and indivisible security, while refraining from reinforcing one's own security at the expense of others. Today, NATO countries, including France, are waging a total hybrid war against Russia, teetering on the brink of an outright armed clash with us.

Any reasonable person will wonder whether NATO ever did anything to promote peace. This was not the case during NATO's aggression in Europe against Yugoslavia - this much is clear. The bombing of Libya and the destruction of Libyan statehood deserve a special mention, since Paris played quite an important, and also unsavoury, role in these efforts.

Now let me turn to the Ambassador's claims that a multipolar world order pre-existed 2022, as well as the way he talked about Paris allegedly doing something to perfect the system of international relations. If we assume that France did promote a certain vision or an agenda throughout this period, it had nothing to do with multi-polarity. Instead, it focused on the Western-centric concept of multilateralism, which basically amounts to an iteration of a unipolar vision. If the past years are any guide, multilateralism in this version consists of preserving the so-called rules-based order at any costs, including by spilling a lot of blood, instead of promoting equal and mutually beneficial interstate dialogue. It is Washington which de facto sets these rules, alongside several European capitals. They seek to impose these rules on the rest of the international community as a given and a fundamental truth for cementing the West's global hegemony.

This vision of the world order implies that all other countries must strictly abide by the instructions they receive from the collective West without any objections or hesitation. Those who try to challenge these orders face various kinds of pressure. In particular, they can be subjected to various coercive economic measures, including unilateral sanctions. The West also relies on its information and propaganda capabilities by demonising entire countries and their peoples, casting them as enemies and blaming them for all the possible sins, including authoritarianism, nationalism, or revanchist aspirations. "Those who oppose us are against us" - this is the gist of the world order the West wants to build. This vision clearly falls short of multi-polarity.

Today, the world is moving toward a genuinely multipolar order. This is an objective process. It used to be that a single country or a group of countries dominated the world, but this system is about to be replaced by an order based on a balance of power and interests of the key decision-making centres around the world. The sovereign equality of states, cooperation based on a balance of interests and mutual benefit, as well as non-interference in domestic affairs, cultural and civilisational diversity, the rule of international law in governing interstate relations based on the provisions of the UN Charter considering their holistic and interconnected nature - these are the main tenets of a polycentric, or multipolar, world order.

The countries of the Global South and East, the global majority, share our viewpoint. As we see, the countries in Eurasia, the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America are striving to strengthen their sovereignty and independence. They are guided by national interests when determining domestic and foreign policy priorities. They stand for building equal relations between the states. They demand, fairly, that the entire humanity rather than a small group of "chosen" countries in the West can manage the resources of this planet. And yet, they are not copying Western ultraliberal models and instead developing on the foundation of their own customs, roots and values.

As for the role of Paris in settling the Ukraine conflict, we have commented on this multiple times. If we look at the original cause of the conflict and its timeline, France's role has been anything but that of an intermediary. In 2014, Paris actively supported the anti-constitutional nationalist coup in Ukraine. The then Foreign Minister of France Laurent Fabius put his signature under the agreement between the "leaders of the Maidan" and incumbent President Viktor Yanukovych. Apparently, he knew that he was participating in the collective deceit of a legitimate head of state. In the subsequent years, Paris condoned the criminal Kiev regime, turning away from its blatant sabotage of the Minsk agreements and the war crimes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Donbass against the citizens of their own country. In December 2022, after German Chancellor Angela Merkel made a similar confession, the former President of France Francois Hollande, who had been also involved in the Minsk talks in 2015, admitted that, instead of fulfilling the Minsk agreements, Paris and Berlin had had a goal to give Ukraine time to recover and strengthen its military potential for a revanche.

We have to state that, with the connivance of France and Germany, Ukraine lost an opportunity to settle the crisis in Donbass on the basis of the Minsk agreements, by re-integrating the eastern regions, and instead made a bid for resolving the conflict by force. Under London's pressure and with the connivance of its Western curators, including France, Kiev exited the talks with Russia and later formalised a legal ban on any talks whatsoever. This decision cost tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers' lives, a destroyed economy and suffering of the civilian population.

Today, France is among the most active financial and military sponsors of the Kiev regime, seeking to deliver a "strategic defeat" to Russia, consistently raise stakes in the Ukrainian conflict, gradually create escalation and promote the ideas of a Western military intervention in Ukraine, which scales up risks of a direct confrontation between Russia and NATO.

It is indicative that in his interview, the French Ambassador spoke about the importance of resuming compliance with international law and the UN Charter, and about considering that "Ukrainians, Europeans and France are concerned about security." He said nothing though about the rampant neo-Nazism in Ukraine, repressive actions against the opposition, infringement upon believers' rights and mass violations of the rights of ethnic Russians and Russian-speaking citizens. As we can see, there is no room for Russia, its legitimate national interests and the interests of a significant part of the Ukrainians themselves in Paris's mediation formula.

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Pacific Fleet ships arrive at Indian port of Cochin

06.08.2024

A detachment of ships of the Pacific Fleet made up of the missile cruiser Guards Order of Nakhimov Varyag and frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov has made a call at the port of Cochin, the Republic of Indian, in Arabian Sea.

The ships will be resupply their stocks at the port in India and go sightseeing around the city and participate in friendlies with Indian sailors.

Cochin is a large port city in the state Kerala on the coast of the Arabian Sea.

The visit to the port of Cochin is made within the tasks of the Pacific Fleet's ships during a long-distance mission. A few days earlier, the detachment of ships left the port of Salalah, the Sultanate of Oman.

The long-distance mission of the Pacific Fleet's detachment began on 22 January 2024. During this time, the Pacific sailors have conducted dozens of training sessions in combat training and organisation of the ships' daily activities at sea. The crews also made business calls at the ports of countries such as the Republic of India, Republic of Sri Lanka, Islamic Republic of Iran, State of Qatar, and State of Eritrea.

Press Service of the Eastern Military District

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China taking aim at preferential visa treatment for Taiwan: MOFA

ROC Central News Agency

08/06/2024 12:54 PM

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) A number of countries have decided in recent months to cancel preferential visa treatment for Taiwan passport holders due to pressure from China, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) alleged Tuesday.

It was responding to a report by the National Audit Office that the number of countries offering preferential visa treatment to holders of Republic of China (ROC, Taiwan's official name) passports had dropped to 166 as of April from 171 at the end of 2023.

In its Central Government Budget Audit Report, the National Audit Office also said MOFA had failed to provide timely updates on these visa treatment changes, which could disrupt Taiwan passport holders' overseas visits.

When asked about the report by CNA, MOFA said some of the countries that recently canceled preferential visa treatment for Taiwanese did so after "bowing to pressure from the Chinese government," without elaborating.

Botswana, for example, recently changed Taiwan's designation on the drop-down menu on its e-visa application system from "Taiwan" to "China" due to pressure from the People's Republic of China (PRC), MOFA said in a written statement.

The change meant that Taiwan passport holders could no longer apply for an e-visa to Botswana, it said.

Colombia also canceled its visa-free treatment to Taiwan passport holders in 2023. Now, only Taiwanese citizens who also hold United States or Schengen area residency or visas can travel visa-free to Colombia, MOFA said.

MOFA said it discussed the issue with Colombia before the change, but the South American country insisted on going through with it, and MOFA said it suspected that PRC could be behind the decision, without providing any other details.

In response to the National Audit Office's report, the ministry pledged that it will make sure that any changes on visa treatment on Taiwanese visitors will be updated and made public as soon as it is aware of any changes.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/ls

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China expanding 'lawfare' efforts in bid to annex Taiwan: MAC head

ROC Central News Agency

08/06/2024 09:50 PM

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) Taiwan's top China affairs chief on Tuesday warned that the People's Republic of China's (PRC) ongoing expansion of legal instruments targeting Taiwan is meant to provide ground to justify the use of force against the country.

Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Minister Chiu Chui-cheng () said that since the PRC's Anti-Secession Law took effect in 2005, China has continued to launch a series of legal wars against Taiwan, including the most recent decision in announcing a new set of legal guidelines on June 21 targeting advocates of Taiwan independence.

"These activities have violated international laws and cross-strait reality," Chiu said, adding that the PRC's laws have no jurisdiction over Taiwanese people.

The PRC's threats to use nonpeaceful means targeting so-called Taiwan independence activists will not be supported by the international community and will not improve cross-strait relations, the minister added.

Chiu made the remarks during his address at a Taipei seminar on PRC's Anti-Session Law as the set of laws is set to mark its 20th anniversary next year.

The PRC introduced the Anti-Secession Law during the former administration of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) President Chen Shui-bian () after the latter undertook actions that Beijing viewed as provocative, such as declaring that there was one country on each side of the Taiwan Strait.

The Anti-Secession Law reiterated the core elements of Beijing's Taiwan policy and its red lines, including outlining the circumstances under which Beijing would consider employing "nonpeaceful means" to annex Taiwan.

This June, the PRC further released a set of new guidelines allowing courts in China to try "Taiwan independence separatists" in absentia.

In addition, the guidelines permit the use of the death penalty against "diehard" advocates of Taiwan independence convicted of inciting secession who also cause "grave harm to the state and the (Chinese) people," according to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency.

During Tuesday's seminar, Chen Yu-jie (), an assistant research professor at the Institutum Iurisprudentiae of Academia Sinica said the PRC has weaponized international law to push for unification.

However, the Anti-Secession Law and the new guidelines serve only as "cognitive warfare" as they violate several international laws, said Chen, who specializes in international law and cross-strait relations.

For instance, the Anti-Secession Law that threatens to take nonpeaceful means to unify Taiwan has violated Article 2 Section 4 of the United Nations Charter, which stipulates that "all members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state," Chen said.

The threat to use violence against Taiwan also violated international human rights law, she added.

Julian Ku (), a law professor at the New York-based Hofstra University, said that the PRC's new guidelines targeting Taiwan independence activists could affect not only Taiwanese people but also "anyone who engages in what they [the PRC] define as [support for] Taiwanese independence."

People who the PRC deems to have violated the guidelines could also face extradition to China depending on bilateral treaties, he noted.

"I think what would be useful for the Taiwan government and other governments is to make clear that such application of Chinese law to Taiwanese people and other people outside of China is improper and illegal, and that countries will not abide by a request, as such request is illegal or inconsistent with the treaty," he added.

Tuesday's seminar, "The PRC's Anti-Session Lawfare and Its Implications," was organized by the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies and Taipei-based Prospect Foundation.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/ASG

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PM meeting with the Sultan of Oman: 6 August 2024

The Prime Minister welcomed the Sultan of Oman, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al Said, to Downing Street this morning.

6 August 2024

The Prime Minister welcomed the Sultan of Oman, His Majesty Haitham bin Tarik al Said, to Downing Street this morning.

The Prime Minister began by highlighting the historic relationship between the UK and Oman, noting the special friendship, spanning over 400 years.

The leaders discussed the broad areas of cooperation between their two countries, including defence, security and trade, which they both looked forward to strengthening.

Turning to the situation in the Middle East, the Prime Minister emphasised the clear and urgent the need for de-escalation and urged all parties in the region to exercise restraint.

On Gaza, The Prime Minister reiterated the need for a ceasefire, the return of hostages and an immediate increase in the volume of humanitarian aid reaching civilians. Both agreed on the need for a two-state solution through a peace process.

They looked forward to working closely together in the future.

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Russia Says Hundreds Of Ukrainian Troops Attacked Border Region Of Kursk

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service August 06, 2024

The Russian Defense Ministry accused the Ukrainian military of attacking its positions in Russia's Kursk region on August 6, while Ukraine said its forces shot down drones, a missile, and a helicopter over the Sumy region on the other side of the border.

The Russian ministry said up to 300 fighters from Ukraine's 22nd Mechanized Brigade supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armored fighting vehicles attacked the positions of Russian units near the settlements of Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya in the Kursk region, which borders on the Sumy region of northeastern Ukraine.

Russian media quoted the Federal Security Service (FSB) as saying that Russian forces had dealt with an armed "provocation" by Ukraine.

Moscow said its forces repulsed the attacks using artillery fire, warplanes, and drones, and the Ukrainian forces retreated after suffering losses. The claims could not be independently verified.

The Russian Defense Ministry also claimed its forces defeated "reserves in the territory of the Sumy region."

The ministry said that Russian aircraft struck the "concentration of manpower and equipment of the armed forces" in and around several settlements in Sumy. There was no independent confirmation of the attacks.

The Ukrainian military's 22nd Mechanized Brigade did not comment on the claims but said border settlements of the Sumy and Chernihiv regions continued to suffer from Russian shelling.

The General Staff of Ukraine's military said that its forces shot down a Russian helicopter, a ballistic missile, and two drones over the Sumy region.

Earlier on August 6, at least one person was killed and several others were wounded in drone strikes reported by Russia and Ukraine, after Kyiv was targeted again in an overnight attack that caused damage to civilian infrastructure.

Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of Russia's Belgorod region which borders Ukraine, said that one person was killed when a drone struck a vehicle, while in Kursk, another region that has a border with Ukraine, several people were wounded by falling debris from drones shot down by Russian air defenses.

Gladkov, who also issued a missile alert for the city of Belgorod and its surroundings early on August 6, said the strike that killed the civilian occurred near the village of Novostroevka, in Belgorod's Graivoronsky urban district.

His claim could not be independently confirmed.

In the Kursk region, 26 drones were shot down on August 6, acting regional Governor Aleksei Smirnov said, adding that five people were wounded by falling debris in Sudzha, a town some 10 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.

Smirnov also claimed that Russian border guards repelled an alleged attempt by Ukrainian forces to cross the border into the Kursk region. Ukraine has not commented on this matter and Smirnov's claim could not be independently confirmed.

Ukraine, whose civilian and energy infrastructure has been relentlessly pounded by Russian drone and missile strikes, has in recent months increasingly resorted to striking targets deeper inside Russian territory, mostly hitting oil refining facilities working for the military and energy infrastructure.

In Ukraine's south-central Zaporizhzhya region, two civilians were killed as a result of Russian shelling, Governor Ivan Fedorov said on August 6. Fedorov reported the deaths on Telegram, saying an aerial bomb was used in the attack, which also destroyed a house.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said that an earlier strike on the city of Kharkiv killed one person and injured 12. Authorities in the city said a Russian missile strike hit the city center, damaging residential buildings, a clinic, and 25 cars belonging to civilians.

In Ukraine, air defenses shot down 15 drones and four out of six missiles over the Kyiv, Kherson, Mykolayiv, and Khmelnytskiy regions early on August 6, the air force said in a message on Telegram, adding that two of the missiles were Iskander ballistic missiles and two were Kh-59 cruise missiles.

In the Kyiv region, falling drone debris caused damage to civilian infrastructure, including residential high-rise buildings, gas stations, and commercial structures, the region's governor, Ruslan Kravchenko, reported on Facebook. He added that no casualties had been reported.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia- strikes-kursk-sumy/33067274.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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General of the Army Valery Gerasimov visits Tsentr Group of Forces in special military operation zone

06.08.2024

Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation / First Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation General of the Army? Valery Gerasimov has visited units of Tsentr Group of Forces in special military operation zone.

During the visit, Chief of the General Staff was briefed by the commanders of the formations performing tasks in Krasnoarmeysk and Aleksandro-Kalinovo directions on the situation in the areas of responsibility. Gerasimov summed up the results and set tasks on the following actions.

Moreover, General of the Army Valery Gerasimov presented state awards to servicemen who demonstrated valour and courage during the combat tasks.

Department for Media Affairs and Information

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Russian Army, Border Guards Thwart Ukrainian Militants Attempt to Break into Kursk Region

Sputnik News

20240806

The Ukrainian army actively tried to break into Kursk region this March ahead of the presidential elections in Russia, yet all militants were neutralized by the Russian Armed Forces and border guards.

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.

"Today, the Sudzhansky and Korenevsky districts reported about Ukrainian forces' attempts to break through into the territory of the Kursk region. The fighters of the Russian FSB Border Guard Service did not allow to break the border through," he wrote on his social networks.

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.

A Sputnik

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In July, Our Warriors Have Used More Drones Than the Occupier - Address by the President

President of Ukraine

6 August 2024 - 19:03

Dear Ukrainians!

Today, I held a meeting of the Staff. Several issues. The first issue is, of course, the front, the report of the Commander-in-Chief - he took part in the meeting directly from the frontline. He is right there. He reported on all directions of our actions. And the toughest ones are the Pokrovsk and Toretsk directions, as well as the Kharkiv region and all other combat directions - we leave none of them neglected. We are doing our best to support our units and destroy the occupier. I thank each of our combat brigades, all the soldiers and commanders who are destroying the enemy with all their might and, in particular, using our drone capabilities with precision. Our Ukrainian Defense and Security Forces are already gaining the upper hand in this regard - and in July, our warriors have used more drones than the occupier. This should be a steady trend at the front - for all types of drones our units have.

From FPVs to all the others, including our long-range drones, which are already having a strategic impact on the war. They are influencing it in Ukraine's favor. And our Ukrainian lead in drones can not only be the factor that brings a just end to the war, but will also make Ukraine a security provider for other countries. Today, our Government officials from the Ministry of Strategic Industries and the Ministry of Finance also presented reports on drone production and financing. We have already contracted one million drones for this year, and more will follow in total within the year. We are not disclosing all the details now, but our drone production capabilities are steadily increasing, and we are working not only with state funding but also with partners, so that they invest in our drone production. Into something that is helping us defend ourselves now, and in the future, will help to keep safe all those who value life and who are now standing shoulder to shoulder with us. Also today, the Staff adopted a decision on our missile program - to increase funding. And separately, the Minister of Defense reported on the provision of our brigades with weapons and on relevant negotiations with our partners. I am grateful to all in the world who are truly willing to support us in the way we need to in order to achieve results now and in the future. The advantage of our warriors over the occupier is something we can all achieve together. Everyone who works for the sake of our independence in Ukraine. Everyone in the world, who truly values international law and wants to achieve a real, lasting, and just peace as soon as possible. The determination, courage, and support of Ukrainians now - the truly courageous decisions of our partners - is what guarantees that Russia will not succeed in imposing permanent chaos and wars on the world instead of normal life.

And one more thing.

Right now, a rescue operation is still underway in Kharkiv after the Russian strike. There are people under the rubble, and we are doing our utmost to help them. At the moment, we know that 12 people were injured. Unfortunately, one person died. My condolences to the families and friends.

All necessary forces are involved in the rescue operation. And we will certainly respond to Russia. Russian terror will inevitably be punished. And I thank everyone in the world who is helping Ukraine get closer to this goal.

Glory to Ukraine!

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Russia claims Ukraine launches an attack in Russian territory

By VOA News August 06, 2024

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.

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UN chief warns of nuclear 'danger' as world remembers Hiroshima; urges elimination of weapons

6 August 2024 - The UN Secretary-General called for nuclear disarmament on Tuesday as the world marked 79 years since the bombing of Hiroshima, promising that the UN will "spare no effort to ensure the horrors of that day are never repeated."

On 6 August 1945, the United States dropped a bomb dubbed 'Little Boy', on the Japanese city of Hiroshima, as World War Two continued. The bombing resulted in immense devastation which killed and injured tens of thousands of people.

The Secretary-General insisted that the threat of the use of nuclear weapons is not just "confined to history books" but a "real and present danger" today - once again looming large "in the daily rhetoric of international relations."

The lessons of Hiroshima

In a message delivered in the Japanese city by UN disarmament chief Izumi Nakamitsu, Mr. Guterres said the lessons of Hiroshima which encourage disarmament and peace have been "pushed aside" but he recognised the people of Hiroshima's efforts to ensure nuclear weapons are never used again.

He further insisted that the use of nuclear weapons is unacceptable and "a nuclear war cannot be won - and must never be fought."

He said this is a lesson that shows we need disarmament now.

The message for the future

As the Hiroshima Peace Memorial ceremony continued, Mr. Guterres said that global mistrust and division have grown, but we must ensure not to "press our luck again."

"Some are recklessly rattling the nuclear saber once more," he said. "The world must stand together to condemn this unacceptable behaviour."

Looking ahead to the Summit of the Future in New York next month, the Secretary-General said it is a "critical opportunity for governments to renew their commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development and peace, and adopt an actionable and forward-looking Pact for the Future."

He said that conflict prevention, disarmament and a nuclear weapons-free world need to be at the heart of these efforts.

"We will never forget the lessons of 6 August 1945," he said. "No more Hiroshimas. No more Nagasakis."

Renewed determination

On Tuesday, UN disarmament chief, Ms. Nakamitsu echoed that message online.

In a statement on X, she also renewed her determination "to continue to work towards a world without nuclear weapons. For the security of all peoples."

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Secretary-General's message to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial on the 79th Anniversary of the Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima

United Nations Secretary-General

06 August 2024

[Delivered by Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, High Representative for Disarmament Affairs]

The world joins together to mark the day that a nuclear weapon devastated this city a and we resolve to spare no effort to ensure the horrors of that day are never repeated.

Indeed, this ceremony is a reminder that we must do even more to end the scourge of nuclear weapons, once and for all.

Nuclear weapons, and the threat of their use, are not confined to history books.

They have once again appeared in the daily rhetoric of international relations.

They represent a real and present danger that remains with us today.

The message is clear.

The lessons of Hiroshima, which once guided our collective efforts towards disarmament and peace, have been pushed aside.

But here in Hiroshima, we are surrounded by the true cost a and true folly a of nuclear weapons.

We see the memorials; we hear the wisdom of the hibakusha; and we can ensure that these annual services of remembrance continue.

Year after year, you a the people of Hiroshima a have continued your work to ensure that nuclear weapons are never used again.

Your dedication is truly inspirational, and guides our own efforts at the United Nations to keep alive the lessons of 1945.

The lesson that any use of a nuclear weapon will have catastrophic humanitarian consequences.

The lesson that the only path to eliminate the threats posed by nuclear weapons is to eliminate them altogether.

The lesson that the use of nuclear weapons is unacceptable.

The lesson that a nuclear war cannot be won a and must never be fought.

And the lesson that we need disarmament now.

Since last year, global mistrust and division have only deepened.

Too many are blind to the fact that we were lucky to end the Cold War without a nuclear war.

We cannot press our luck again.

Yet some are recklessly rattling the nuclear saber once more.

The world must stand together to condemn this unacceptable behavior.

And we must find new solutions to bring disarmament to life.

Next month's Summit of the Future will be a critical opportunity for governments to renew their commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development and peace, and adopt an actionable and forward-looking Pact for the Future.

Conflict prevention, disarmament, and a world free of nuclear weapons, must be at the heart of these efforts.

At every step, the United Nations will continue to stand with the people of Hiroshima and with the hibakusha.

We will never forget the lessons of 6 August 1945.

No more Hiroshimas. No more Nagasakis.

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Chicago, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The artillery systems market is estimated to be USD 11.8 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 16.0 Billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2023 to 2028.

One key driving factor for Artillery Systems Industry is their capability to provide long-range firepower and precision support on the battlefield. Artillery systems play a critical role in modern warfare by delivering large-caliber projectiles to distant targets with accuracy, enabling forces to engage enemy positions, disrupt enemy movements, and provide indirect fire support to friendly troops. The range and precision offered by artillery systems give them a unique advantage in combat situations. They can engage targets beyond the line of sight, meaning they can hit targets that are not directly visible to the operators. This allows artillery units to engage enemy forces from a safe distance, reducing the risk to friendly troops.

To know about the assumptions considered for the study

Download the PDF Brochure

Major Artillery Systems Companies Include:

Lockheed Martin Corporation (US),

Bae Systems (UK),

Hanwha Group (South Korea),

Rheinmetall AG (Germany),

Nexter Group (France),

Norinco Internation Cooperation Ltd. (China),

Rostec (Russia),

General Dynamics Corporation (US),

Avibras (Brazil),

Elbit Systems (Israel).

Artillery Systems Market Segmentation Analysis:

Based on Howitzer, the Medium Caliber Segment Will Record the Highest Market Share of Artillery Systems During the Forecast Period

Artillery systems in medium caliber howitzer segment which includes caliber of 100 MM- 155 MM are experiencing significant growth due to several factors. Mediu caliber provides a balance between range and lethality. Its larger caliber allows it to achieve extended ranges compared to smaller artillery shells, enabling artillery units to engage targets at greater distances. This increased range enhances the reach and flexibility of artillery systems, enabling them to support operations over a wider area. Manoeuvrability makes it challenging for interceptors to track and engage these weapons effectively. This high explosive capacity makes it capable of engaging a wide range of targets, including fortified positions, armoured vehicles, and personnel concentrations. The shell's impact and blast effects can cause significant damage to the target area, disrupting enemy operations and providing a suppression effect.

Based on Mortars, the Small Caliber Segment Will Record the Highest Market Share of Artillery Systems During the Forecast Period

Artillery systems in small caliber mortar segment are witnessing rapid growth due various factors. Firstly, their portability and lightweight design are key advantages. Small caliber mortar systems are more easily transported and deployed, providing greater manoeuvrability for infantry units. They can be disassembled into smaller components and carried by soldiers, allowing for rapid emplacement and disengagement. This mobility enables infantry forces to quickly establish and relocate mortar positions, maintaining flexibility and adaptability during dynamic combat situations. Secondly, small caliber mortars excel at providing close-range indirect fire support. Their compact size allows them to be effectively employed in complex terrain, urban environments, or restrictive areas where larger artillery systems may be impractical. They can engage targets in close proximity to friendly forces, offering immediate and responsive fire support to troops in direct contact with the enemy.

Based on Artillery, the Coastal Artillery Segment Will Record the Highest Market Share of Artillery Systems During the Forecast Period

Coastal Artillery has secured the largest market share in Artillery segment of artillery systems primarily due to its high accuracy. Coastal artillery systems offer several significant benefits for coastal defense and maritime security. Firstly, these systems provide a formidable deterrent against hostile naval forces and potential amphibious assaults. The presence of coastal artillery acts as a visible and tangible defense, dissuading adversaries from attempting aggressive actions or incursions into coastal areas. Secondly, coastal artillery systems play a critical role in protecting strategic maritime assets and critical infrastructure. They can defend ports, harbors, naval bases, and other vital coastal installations from attacks by hostile ships, submarines, or amphibious forces.

By Region, Asia Pacific is Expected to Lead the Artillery Systems Market in 2024

Artillery systems in the Asia pacific region are experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. Firstly, The Asia-Pacific region is home to several major military powers which includes China, Japan, India, Australia among others. These countries have high military budgets and have been modernizing its military capabilities and has invested heavily in areas such as self-propelled howitzers and MLRS. Secondly, the rapid technological advancements and investments in artillery systems technology drive the market in this region, major Asian pacific countries have developed or invested in the development and procurement of artillery systems.

Inquiry Before Buying:

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=69844596

Artillery Systems Market Opportunities and Challenges:

Opportunities: Unmanned Artillery Systems transform Battlefield due to Autonomous Firepower

Unmanned artillery systems also provide opportunities for increased battlefield adaptability. These systems can be rapidly deployed and repositioned as needed, allowing for dynamic response to changing operational requirements. Additionally, unmanned artillery systems can be integrated with other autonomous platforms, such as drones or ground robots, forming a networked and coordinated unmanned force for enhanced situational awareness and collaborative engagement. Furthermore, the use of unmanned systems can reduce the logistical footprint by requiring fewer personnel and support equipment, thereby streamlining operations and increasing operational efficiency. The development and deployment of unmanned artillery systems also spur innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced sensors, contributing to technological advancements and fostering cross-sector collaboration. Overall, unmanned artillery systems open up opportunities for militaries to improve their effectiveness, flexibility, and cost-efficiency, while staying at the forefront of modern warfare capabilities.

Challenges: High Costs of Artillery Systems

The design and development of self-propelled artillery requires sufficient time, capital, and technical expertise. Self-propelled artillery, also known as mobile artillery or locomotive artillery, are equipped with their own propulsion system to move towards their target. They are used for long-range indirect bombardment support on the battlefield. The unique capabilities of self-propelled artillery, such as high lethality and improved manoeuvrability, have led to their increased costs. The high costs involved in the development of advanced technologies for self-propelled artillery act as a key challenge to the growth of the artillery systems market, especially for emerging nations. The average cost of a self-propelled artillery unit is 6.7 million; this cost increases depending on advanced specifications of these weapons. Thus, manufacturers prefer prototyping of weapons and their components prior to their development based on the global demand, as failure of the developed model could incur huge losses.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bunker Hill Mining Corp. (Bunker Hill or the Company) (TSX-V: BNKR; OTCQB: BHILL) announces the appointment of Nick Dunnink in the role of Vice President, Business Development, effective August 1, 2024.



Nick has extensive experience within the mining industry and capital markets. Before joining Bunker Hill, he served as the founder of his independent consultancy, assisting companies with corporate development and finance, following ten years of experience at bank-owned dealers on the mining and metals investment banking teams. During his time in investment banking, he assisted in over $20 billion in transactions including global mergers and acquisitions, structured finance and capital raises across North America. Mr. Dunnink is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds a Certificate in ESG Investing from the CFA Institute along with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Windsor.

Sam Ash, President and CEO of Bunker Hill, commented, I am very excited to have Nick join us at this fundamentally important time as we aim to restart the historic Bunker Hill Mine. Nicks considerable experience and expertise in financing and capital markets will be key to the Company as we develop and execute on our evolving growth strategy.

In addition, the Company has issued Mr. Dunnink incentive stock options to purchase up to an aggregate of 87,493 common shares of Bunker Hill Mining Corp. exercisable for up to 5 years at a price of C$0.16 per share, of which all of the stock options vest in on August 1, 2025.

ABOUT BUNKER HILL MINING CORP.

Under Idaho-based leadership, Bunker Hill intends to sustainably restart and develop the Bunker Hill Mine as the first step in consolidating and then optimizing a number of mining assets into a high-value portfolio of operations, centered initially in North America. Information about the Company is available on its website, www.bunkerhillmining.com, or within the SEDAR+ and EDGAR databases.

On behalf of Bunker Hill Mining Corp.

Sam Ash

President and Chief Executive Officer

For additional information, please contact:

Brenda Dayton

Vice President, Investor Relations

T: 604.417.7952

E: brenda.dayton@bunkerhillmining.com

Cautionary Statements

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements are within the meaning of that term in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as well as within the meaning of the phrase forward-looking information in the Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 51-102  Continuous Disclosure Obligations (collectively, forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Companys future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as believes, anticipates, expects, estimates, may, could, would, will, plan or variations of such words and phrases.

Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Companys objectives, goals or future plans, including the restart and development of the Bunker Hill Mine, and the achievement of future short-term, medium-term and long-term operational strategies.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risks and uncertainties identified in public filings made by Bunker Hill with the SEC and with applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities, and the following: the Companys inability to raise additional capital for project activities, including through equity financings, concentrate offtake financings or otherwise; the fluctuating price of commodities; capital market conditions; restrictions on labor and its effects on international travel and supply chains; failure to identify mineral resources; failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves; the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results; the Companys ability to restart and develop the Bunker Hill Mine and the risks of not basing a production decision on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability, resulting in increased uncertainty due to multiple technical and economic risks of failure which are associated with this production decision including, among others, areas that are analyzed in more detail in a feasibility study, such as applying economic analysis to resources and reserves, more detailed metallurgy and a number of specialized studies in areas such as mining and recovery methods, market analysis, and environmental and community impacts and, as a result, there may be an increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of minerals or the cost of such recovery, including increased risks associated with developing a commercially mineable deposit, with no guarantee that production will begin as anticipated or at all or that anticipated production costs will be achieved; failure to commence production would have a material adverse impact on the Company's ability to generate revenue and cash flow to fund operations; failure to achieve the anticipated production costs would have a material adverse impact on the Company's cash flow and future profitability; delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals; political risks; changes in equity markets; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inability of the Company to budget and manage its liquidity in light of the failure to obtain additional financing, including the ability of the Company to complete the payments pursuant to the terms of the agreement to acquire the Bunker Hill Mine complex; inflation; changes in exchange rates; fluctuations in commodity prices; delays in the development of projects; and capital, operating and reclamation costs varying significantly from estimates and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such statements or information, which only applies 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, including as to whether or when the Company will achieve its project finance initiatives, or as to the actual size or terms of those financing initiatives. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing risks and uncertainties are not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other risk factors that could affect the Companys operations or financial results are included in the Companys annual information form or annual report and may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca) or through EDGAR on the SEC website (www.sec.gov), respectively.
NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC (KSF) and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until September 30, 2024 to 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 Companys 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 Do

If 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 by September 30, 2024 .

About the Lawsuit

Arbor 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 companys 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, LLC

KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nations premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients  including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors  in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, Delaware, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com.

Contact:

Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

Lewis Kahn, Managing Partner

lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com

1-877-515-1850

1100 Poydras St., Suite 960

New Orleans, LA 70163
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Over the last business cycle (2007 to 2019), and long before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Canada was already underperforming other advanced countries on important investment, employment and productivity measures that are key to higher living standards, finds a new study published by the Fraser Institute, an independent, non-partisan Canadian public policy think-tank.



It may be tempting for policymakers to blame Canadas poor economic performance on the COVID pandemic and all the disruptions it caused, but the truth is Canada has been underperforming its international peers in important ways for many years, said Jason Clemens, executive vice president of the Fraser Institute.

The study, A Comparative Analysis of the Economic Performance of Canada and Its OECD Competitors, 2007-2019 , finds that Canada performed poorly on a number of important investment, employment and productivity indicators when compared to other high-income developed countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). For example:

Canada ranked 20 th out of 31 for growth in GDP per person at 7.2 per cent. For context, the OECD average was 11.5 per cent, and countries as varied as Poland (54.1 per cent), Ireland (43.3 per cent), Czech Republic (21.0 per cent), the United States (12.7 per cent) and Australia (10.8 per cent) all out-performed Canada.

out of 31 for growth in GDP per person at 7.2 per cent. For context, the OECD average was 11.5 per cent, and countries as varied as Poland (54.1 per cent), Ireland (43.3 per cent), Czech Republic (21.0 per cent), the United States (12.7 per cent) and Australia (10.8 per cent) all out-performed Canada. Canada had the second lowest level of business investment (excluding residential construction) as a share of the economy among the OECD countries. Canadas 11.0 per cent of GDP in 2019 was only slightly more than half the amount of Switzerland (20.3 per cent), which ranked first.

Canadas growth in private non-residential business investment as a share of the economy was the third worst among the OECD countries, and whereas investment (as a share of the economy) declined in Canada by 11.1 per cent, it increased by 19.7 per cent in the U.S.

Employment in Canadas government sector increased by 17.3 per cent, the fourth highest among the OECD countries. By comparison, employment in the private sectornecessary to finance the government sectoronly grew by 13.3 per cent.

Labour productivity, measured as GDP per hour worked, increased by 10.3 per cent, which is lower than the OECD average of 11.2 per cent.



Canadas relative underperformance, whether measured as growth in living standards, attracting investment, or the performance of the labour market, started more than a decade ago and is actually worsening, Clemens said.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Jason Clemens, Executive Vice-President

Fraser Institute

To arrange media interviews or for more information, please contact:

Drue MacPherson, 604-688-0221 ext. 721, drue.macpherson@fraserinstitute.org

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MONTREAL, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osisko Development Corp. (NYSE: ODV, TSXV: ODV) ("Osisko Development" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on exploration activities at its 100%-owned Tintic Project ("Tintic" or the "Tintic Project"), located in the historic East Tintic Mining District in central Utah, U.S.A. This includes results of recently completed surface and underground diamond drilling targeting potential copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry centers, underground chip sampling at the Trixie test mine ("Trixie"), and ongoing target generation work.



Chris Lodder, President, stated, "Early results from our systematic exploration approach are yielding valuable information in assisting with vectoring toward potential mineralized porphyry sources and large undiscovered polymetallic carbonate replacement deposits. We are seeing encouraging porphyry style mineralization in drill holes that are providing us with better understanding of the geometry, ore controls and zoning of mineralization at East Tintic. With this knowledge, we are well positioned to continue to vector towards more copper-rich areas believed to be the source of known mineralization at Tintic. Utah was most recently ranked by the Fraser Institute as the top mining jurisdiction globally, and we are excited at the future prospect of building on our presence there."

BIG HILL PORPHYRY TARGET DRILLING

Drilling Results. Two surface diamond drill holes, BH-DD-24-001 and BH-DD-24-002, have been completed at the Big Hill target Area in early May 2024 (see Figure 2). The first drill hole was completed to a depth of 1,297 meters (" m ") (4,257 feet (" ft ")) when it transitioned out of the prospective alteration zone. The second drill hole was repositioned at a modified angle and completed to a depth of 1,623 m (5,324 ft). Both drill holes intersected porphyry systems defined by at least three late-mineral monzonite porphyritic intrusive phases and an intrusion breccia over a vertical depth of approximately 1,500 m (see Figure 3). Although anomalous copper and molybdenum mineralization was encountered, including low visible presence of chalcopyrite, tennantite, and molybdenite, this was primarily localized along structures, and hydrothermal breccias, and the transition from calcareous rocks into quartzites. No significant intercepts of copper, gold or molybdenum were observed. The porphyries encountered to date are considered to lack evidence for the major fluid paths required to be the source of mineralization in the Tintic District. Results to date have shown that the porphyries and intrusion breccia display potassic alteration with anhydrite and pyrite veinlets, which have undergone variable retrograde alteration to illite-chlorite and have been overprinted by pyrophyllite, dickite, and kaolinite along fault zones. This combination of intrusive rocks and alteration are clear evidence of the presence of a porphyry style mineralization at Big Hill. However, they are weakly mineralized, late inter-mineral phases that often post-date the better mineralized early-porphyry intrusive phases in well known porphyry deposits.

Two surface diamond drill holes, BH-DD-24-001 and BH-DD-24-002, have been completed at the Big Hill target Area in early May 2024 (see Figure 2). Big Hill West Target. The results of the recent and historical drill holes suggest that the early and potentially better mineralized intrusive phase could be in an untested area immediately west and southwest of the area drilled at Big Hill (see Figure 3). Early porphyry intrusions, with more intense veinlets and alteration, are thought to be required to explain the metal inventory of the Tintic District. Drill core to date has shown that carbonate rocks in the intrusion breccia are marbleized and, in places, altered to retrograde skarn. Some discrete intervals comprise a finer-grained monzonite porphyry which is cut by porphyry-style quartz and magnetite veinlets, some containing pyrite and molybdenite with clear B-type affinity (see Figure 1). These inter-mineral intercepts, only approximated in Figure 3, are considered as blocks or screens 'floating' in the late-mineral phases, indicating that there are early and likely better mineralized inter-mineral intrusive phases to be found at Big Hill.

The results of the recent and historical drill holes suggest that the early and potentially better mineralized intrusive phase could be in an untested area immediately west and southwest of the area drilled at Big Hill (see Figure 3).

Figure 1: Core photos from Big Hill drill holes showing texture of intrusive rocks and associated alteration, veinlets, and breccia-clasts characteristic of porphyries.





The potassically altered late-mineral porphyries are chilled against the quartz-veined porphyry intervals, defining them as inter-mineral in timing. These inter-mineral intercepts (approximated in Figure 3) are considered as blocks or screens 'floating' in the late-mineral phases. A similar quartz-veined porphyry is more abundant in the core from BPC-08-002 drilled by Anglo American at Big Hill (see Figure 2) in 2008. This drillhole also included appreciable thicknesses of the same intrusion breccia.



Figure 2: Tintic Project plan map showing the Big Hill, Zuma, and Lower Quartzite CRD targets.





Figure 3: Big Hill geological section, presenting geology logged in drill holes BH-DD-24-001 and BH-DD-24-002 and the Big Hill West target.





TRIXIE WEST PORPHYRY TARGET DRILLING

One diamond drill hole, TRXU-DD-23-073, was completed from underground testing porphyry-style mineralization down plunge of the mineralized structures below Trixie (see Figure 2). The drill hole was completed to a depth of 759.6 m (2,492 ft) when it crossed the Eureka Lily Fault to the east and out of the prospective alteration zone. After collaring into the lower portion of the Ophir shale the drillhole remained in the Tintic Quartzite formation without intersecting porphyritic intrusions. Favorable geochemical and alteration mineral indicators were observed in the upper sections of the drillhole. However, at approximately 390 m (1,278 ft) downhole, the regional scale Eureka Lilly fault was crossed, beyond which these indicators significantly diminished. These results suggest that the western hanging wall block of the Eureka Lilly fault is more conducive for porphyry-style mineralization. Therefore, future drilling efforts will be more effective from the Zuma area, located west of Trixie (see Figure 2).

Anomalous mineralization was encountered in the drill hole, primarily attributed to localized small structures in the Tintic Quartzite and appear to be of a similar mineralization style as found at the main Trixie deposit. However, no significant intercepts of gold, copper or molybdenum were encountered in TRX-DD-23-073.



HIGH-POTENTIAL PORPHYRY AND CRD TARGETS

The Zuma Target

The Zuma area is considered a good porphyry target that merits initial drill testing and may represent one of the causative porphyry centres of the East Tintic district (see Figures 2 and 4).

It is defined by overlapping geochemical and geophysical anomalies: the confluence of several regional scale structures linked to known high-sulfidation mineralization, the presence of early quartz veinlets on surface, and indications of multiple phases of magmatism (Figure 2).

Drill testing of the anomalies identified at Zuma is considered a high-priority porphyry target.



Lower Quartzite CRD Target

Based on the compilation of geological, drilling, and historical data, a potential large scale carbonate replacement deposit (" CRD ") may be located below the footwall of the East Tintic thrust fault (see Figure 4).

") may be located below the footwall of the East Tintic thrust fault (see Figure 4). A recommended drill target follows downdip extensions of known mineralization at Burgin, along the traces of the NE faults below where they intersect the west dipping thrust fault that defines the base of the quartzite. Of note, historic production and most known metal inventory in the Burgin area represents close to 45% of the total mineralization discovered and mined in the East Tintic district. Meaning, these ore deposits are typically larger than those in veins and narrow mantos at the top of the quartzite (see Figure 4).

Figure 4: Interpreted West-East cross section, looking North, from the Main (West Camp, Ivanhoe Electric's land) passing east into the central valley zone and the East Camp of Tintic (ODV's land).





CRD mineralization mined in the East Tintic district, except for the Burgin deposit, has all been localized at the upper contact or close to the upper contact of the Tintic Quartzite and the calcareous strata of the Ophir formation (see Figure 4), structurally confined along the intersection of NE trending faults (see Figure 2).

Figure 4 shows main lithological units, high angle faults and folds, a main low angle thrust fault putting in contact older quartzites over younger calcareous rocks in East Tintic. It also includes an approximate location of known main ore bodies, potential location of the proposed causative porphyry center of Zuma (drill target) and a potential connection of proximal Cu-Au CRD-Skarn mineralization below the thrust fault-plain starting at the limits of the causative porphyry and changing toward the east into Zn-Pb-Ag-Mn distal mineralization at Burgin. The proposed CRD drill hole is located between Burgin and Trixie.

TRIXIE UNDERGROUND CHIP SAMPLE ASSAY HIGHLIGHTS

Chip samples were collected from new development areas in the walls of an exploration crosscut to explore along the Wild Cat, T2 and T4 domains of the Trixie deposit on the 625 Level (see Figure 5). Assay highlights include underground chip samples from four new development faces. All four faces had samples with greater than 1.0 gram per tonne ("g/t") gold ("Au") or greater than 50.0 g/t silver ("Ag") values (see Table 1). The remaining chip samples returned no significant assays. Selected assay highlights include:

11.07 g/t Au and 25.45 g/t Ag over 6.10 m in CH01716 (0.32 ounce per ton (" oz/t ") Au and 0.74 oz/t Ag over 20 ft) including 90.20 g/t Au and 226.33 g/t Ag over 0.30 m (2.63 oz/t Au and 6.60 oz/t Ag over 1 ft)

and 25.45 g/t Ag over 6.10 m in CH01716 (0.32 ounce per ton (" ") Au and 0.74 oz/t Ag over 20 ft) including 9.13 g/t Au and 28.69 g/t Ag over 6.71 m in CH01717 (0.27 oz/t Au and 0.84 oz/t Ag over 22 ft) including 21.77 g/t Au and 52.31 g/t Ag over 1.52 m (0.63 oz/t Au and 1.53 oz/t Ag over 5 ft)

and 28.69 g/t Ag over 6.71 m in CH01717 (0.27 oz/t Au and 0.84 oz/t Ag over 22 ft) including

Figure 5: Trixie Cross Section with Chip Highlights





Table 1: Chip Sample Length Weighted Assay Composites at Trixie

Site ID Depth From

(m) Depth To

(m) Length

(m) Au

(g/t) Ag

(g/t) Depth From

(ft.) Depth To

(ft.) Length

(ft.) Au

(oz/t) Ag

(oz/t) CH01714 1.52 2.44 0.91 1.23 18.07 5.00 8.00 3.00 0.04 0.53 CH01714 4.11 4.57 0.46 2.30 111.42 13.50 15.00 1.50 0.07 3.25 CH01714 7.01 7.62 0.61 1.10 8.09 23.00 25.00 2.00 0.03 0.24 CH01715 0.91 2.13 1.22 5.83 15.56 3.00 7.00 4.00 0.17 0.45 CH01715 16.15 16.46 0.30 53.07 162.32 53.00 54.00 1.00 1.55 4.73 CH01716 1.52 4.57 3.05 2.97 9.62 5.00 15.00 10.00 0.09 0.28 CH01716 Including 1.52 3.05 1.52 3.09 9.15 5.00 10.00 5.00 0.09 0.27 CH01716 and 3.05 4.57 1.52 2.85 10.08 10.00 15.00 5.00 0.08 0.29 CH01716 7.62 13.72 6.10 11.07 25.45 25.00 45.00 20.00 0.32 0.74 CH01716 Including 7.62 8.38 0.76 25.09 38.60 25.00 27.50 2.50 0.73 1.13 CH01716 and 8.38 9.45 1.07 4.53 7.75 27.50 31.00 3.50 0.13 0.23 CH01716 and 9.45 9.75 0.30 90.20 226.33 31.00 32.00 1.00 2.63 6.60 CH01716 and 9.75 10.67 0.91 6.27 19.03 32.00 35.00 3.00 0.18 0.55 CH01716 and 10.67 12.19 1.52 1.61 5.45 35.00 40.00 5.00 0.05 0.16 CH01716 and 12.19 13.72 1.52 5.14 14.95 40.00 45.00 5.00 0.15 0.44 CH01716 15.24 16.76 1.52 1.17 11.35 50.00 55.00 5.00 0.03 0.33 CH01717 0.00 1.52 1.52 3.46 0.00 0.00 5.00 5.00 0.10 0.00 CH01717 3.05 4.57 1.52 5.38 13.61 10.00 15.00 5.00 0.16 0.40 CH01717 10.06 16.76 6.71 9.13 28.69 33.00 55.00 22.00 0.27 0.84 CH01717 Including 10.06 10.21 0.15 23.04 63.32 33.00 33.50 0.50 0.67 1.85 CH01717 and 10.21 10.67 0.46 2.02 14.12 33.50 35.00 1.50 0.06 0.41 CH01717 and 10.67 12.19 1.52 3.19 18.07 35.00 40.00 5.00 0.09 0.53 CH01717 and 12.19 13.72 1.52 21.77 52.31 40.00 45.00 5.00 0.63 1.53 CH01717 and 13.72 14.94 1.22 8.13 22.22 45.00 49.00 4.00 0.24 0.65 CH01717 and 14.94 15.70 0.76 7.92 32.53 49.00 51.50 2.50 0.23 0.95 CH01717 and 15.70 16.76 1.07 2.64 16.08 51.50 55.00 3.50 0.08 0.47



About Trixie

The Trixie test mine is one of several gold and base metal targets within the larger Tintic Project consisting of >20,500 acres of mining claims (18,783 acres of patented mining claims and a further approximately 1,807 acres of unpatented mining claims) within the historic East Tintic Mining District of Central Utah, U.S.A. The T2 and T4 zones at Trixie show multi-ounce gold grades associated with high sulphidation epithermal mineralization, structurally controlled and hosted within quartzites. The T2 structure mineralization consists of native Au, and rare Au-Ag rich telluride minerals with quartz. The T4 is a broad enveloping zone, encompassing multiple discrete quartz-barite stockwork and fissure veining structures and structural zones developed around and similar to the discrete T2 structure and is located in the foot wall of the 75-85 zone.

A 3D model and virtual site tour of Trixie and the wider Tintic Project is accessible on the Company's VRIFY page at: https://vrify.com/decks/15815.

Technical Report

Information relating to the Tintic Project and the current MRE for the Trixie deposit (the "2024 Trixie MRE") is supported by the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Mineral Resource Estimate for the Trixie Deposit, Tintic Project, Utah, United States of America", dated April 25, 2024 (with an effective date of March 14, 2024) prepared for the Company by independent representatives of Micon International Limited (the "Tintic Technical Report"). Reference should be made to the full text of the Tintic Technical Report, which was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and is available electronically on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on EDGAR (www.sec.gov) under Osisko Development's issuer profile and on the Company's website at www.osiskodev.com.

Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Daniel Downton, P.Geo., Chief Resource Geologist of Osisko Development, and a "qualified person" within the meaning of NI 43-101.

Face Sampling Methodology

As most structures at Trixie are steeply dipping to the east or west, current sampling procedures are designed to sample the structure. Chip samples are collected and do not exceed 1.5 m (5 ft.) in length. The face is washed for safety, and for better identification of mineralization, alteration and structures. The hanging wall and footwall of the structures are marked up on the face and back, samples intervals are marked up and follow lithological contacts.

Samples are collected in feet and assays are reported in grams per tonne and troy ounce per short ton gold and silver. Conversions to metric and imperial measurements are rounded to two decimal places.

Quality Assurance (QA)  Quality Control (QC)

All drill core and exploration samples are dispatched to ALS Geochemistry in Elko, Nevada or Reno, Nevada for offsite sample preparation and analysis. ALS Geochemistry is ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO 9001 certified. Samples are assigned a unique sample ID. All geological and sampling information is entered into Datamine Fusion database. Core is sawn in half and half is sampled. Certified standards and blanks are inserted into all sample dispatches. Samples are collected by Old Dominion Transportation and dispatched to ALS Geochehistry's laboratories in Elko, Nevada or Reno, Nevada. Sample submission forms accompany the samples, and digital copies are emailed to ALS Geochemistry.

All core sample preparation is completed by ALS Geochemistry, including drying, crushing, and pulverizing of samples. Analytical assays include gold by 30-gram fire assay with AAS finish , and gold overlimits by fire assay with gravimetric finish. Screen metallic and hyperspectral analyses are performed on selected samples. Multielement analysis (including silver) is by four-acid digest with ICP-AES/ICP-MS finish. The pulps are returned to Osisko Development and coarse rejects are disposed after 90 days. Assays are reported to Osisko Development and then loaded into Datamine Fusion. Quality Assurance-Quality Control samples are checked, and assays are merged with sample information for future reporting.

Underground face samples are collected by Company geologists from each of the active test mining faces, with samples transported by the geologists from Trixie to the on-site Company laboratory located at the Burgin administrative complex. Underground samples are dried, crushed to <10 mm and a 250 g split is taken. The split is pulverized, and a 30 g Fire Assay with gravimetric finish is completed to determine gold and silver grades, reported in oz/short ton and g/t.

The Company's Burgin laboratory is not a certified analytical laboratory, but the facility is managed by a qualified laboratory manager with annual auditing by technical staff. Inter-laboratory check assays using ALS Laboratory as a third-party independent analysis of samples is routinely carried out as part of ongoing QA/QC work. Certified OREAS QC standards and blanks are inserted at regular intervals in the sample stream to monitor laboratory performance.

Within the Trixie deposit, true width is estimated to be approximately 0.5 m  3.0 m (1.6  10.0 ft) for all fissure veins and discrete structures (T2, T3, 75-85, Wildcat and 40 Fault) and the T4 zone is modelled at an average width of 90 m (300 ft) and encompasses disseminated mineralization and discontinuous veins ranging from several cm to 1 m (3 ft).

ABOUT OSISKO DEVELOPMENT CORP.

Osisko Development Corp. is a North American gold development company focused on past-producing mining camps located in mining friendly jurisdictions with district scale potential. The Company's objective is to become an intermediate gold producer by advancing its 100%-owned Cariboo Gold Project, located in central B.C., Canada, the Tintic Project in the historic East Tintic mining district in Utah, U.S.A., and the San Antonio Gold Project in Sonora, Mexico. In addition to considerable brownfield exploration potential of these properties, that benefit from significant historical mining data, existing infrastructure and access to skilled labour, the Company's project pipeline is complemented by other prospective exploration properties. The Company's strategy is to develop attractive, long-life, socially and environmentally sustainable mining assets, while minimizing exposure to development risk and growing mineral resources.

For further information, visit our website at www.osiskodev.com or contact:

Sean Roosen Philip Rabenok Chairman and CEO Director, Investor Relations Email: sroosen@osiskodev.com Email: prabenok@osiskodev.com Tel: +1 (514) 940-0685 Tel: +1 (437) 423-3644



CAUTION STATEMENTS

Cautionary Statement Regarding Test Mining Without Feasibility Study

The Company cautions that its prior decision to commence small-scale underground mining activities and batch vat leaching at the Trixie test mine was made without the benefit of a feasibility study, or reported mineral resources or mineral reserves, demonstrating economic and technical viability, and, as a result there may be increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of material or the cost of such recovery. The Company cautions that historically, such projects have a much higher risk of economic and technical failure. Small scale test-mining at Trixie was suspended in December 2022, resumed in the second quarter of 2023, and suspended once again in December 2023. If and when small-scale test-mining recommences at Trixie, there is no guarantee that production will continue as anticipated or at all or that anticipated production costs will be achieved. The failure to continue production may have a material adverse impact on the Company's ability to generate revenue and cash flow to fund operations. Failure to achieve the anticipated production costs may have a material adverse impact on the Company's cash flow and potential profitability. In continuing operations at Trixie after closing, the Company has not based its decision to continue such operations on a feasibility study, or reported mineral resources or mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability.

Cautionary Statement to U.S. Investors

The Company is subject to the reporting requirements of the applicable Canadian securities laws and as a result reports information regarding mineral properties, mineralization and estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources, including the information in its technical reports, financial statements, MD&A and this news release, in accordance with Canadian reporting requirements, which are governed by NI 43-101. As such, such information concerning mineral properties, mineralization and estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources, including the information in its technical reports, financial statements, MD&A and this news release, is not comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this news release may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation (together, "forward-looking statements"). These forward-looking statements, by their nature, require Osisko Development to make certain assumptions and necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. Words such as "may", "will", "would", "could", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "continue", or the negative or comparable terminology, as well as terms usually used in the future and the conditional, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Information contained in forward-looking statements is based upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including the assumptions, qualifications and limitations relating to the significance of the high-priority target drilling; the utility of modern exploration techniques; the potential for parallel high-grade gold fissure zones; the potential of Tintic to host a copper-gold porphyry center; the significance of regional exploration potential; the results of the 2024 Trixie MRE; the potential for unknown mineralized structures to extend existing zones of mineralization; category conversion; the timing and status of permitting; the capital resources available to Osisko Development; the ability of the Company to execute its planned activities, including as a result of its ability to seek additional funding or to reduce planned expenditures; the ability of the Company to obtain future financing and the terms of such financing; management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments; the utility and significance of historic data, including the significance of the district hosting past producing mines; future mining activities; the potential of high grade gold mineralization on Trixie and Cariboo; the results (if any) of further exploration work to define and expand mineral resources; the ability of exploration work (including drilling) to accurately predict mineralization; the ability to generate additional drill targets; the ability of management to understand the geology and potential of the Company's properties; the ability of the Company to expand mineral resources beyond current mineral resource estimates; the timing and ability of the Company to complete upgrades to the mining and mill infrastructure at Trixie (if at all); continuation of test mining activities at Trixie (if at all); the timing and ability of the Company to ramp up processing capacity at Trixie (if at all); the ability of the Company to complete its exploration and development objectives for its projects in 2024 in the timing contemplated and within expected costs (if at all); the ongoing advancement of the deposits on the Company's properties; the deposit remaining open for expansion at depth and down plunge; the ability to realize upon any mineralization in a manner that is economic; the Cariboo project design and ability and timing to complete infrastructure at Cariboo (if at all); the ability and timing for Cariboo to reach commercial production (if at all); the ability to adapt to changes in gold prices, estimates of costs, estimates of planned exploration and development expenditures; the ability of the Company to obtain further capital on reasonable terms; the profitability (if at all) of the Company's operations; the Company being a well-positioned gold development company in Canada, USA and Mexico; the ability and timing for the permitting at San Antonio; the impact of permitting delays at San Antonio; the outcome of the strategic review of the San Antonio Project; sustainability and environmental impacts of operations at the Company's properties; as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances, and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward looking information". Material assumptions also include, management's perceptions of historical trends, the ability of exploration (including drilling and chip sampling assays, and face sampling) to accurately predict mineralization, budget constraints and access to capital on terms acceptable to the Company, current conditions and expected future developments, regulatory framework remaining defined and understood, results of further exploration work to define or expand any mineral resources, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. Osisko Development considers its assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, but cautions the reader that their assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of Osisko Development, may ultimately prove to be incorrect since they are subject to risks and uncertainties that affect Osisko Development and its business. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, risks relating to capital market conditions and the Company's ability to access capital on terms acceptable to the Company for the contemplated exploration and development at the Company's properties; the ability to continue current operations and exploration; regulatory framework and presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; the ability of exploration activities (including drill results and chip sampling, and face sampling results) to accurately predict mineralization; errors in management's geological modelling; the ability to expand operations or complete further exploration activities; the timing and ability of the Company to obtain required approvals and permits; the results of exploration activities; risks relating to exploration, development and mining activities; the global economic climate; metal and commodity prices; fluctuations in the currency markets; dilution; environmental risks; and community, non-governmental and governmental actions and the impact of stakeholder actions. Readers are urged to consult the disclosure provided under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023 as well as the financial statements and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2023, which have been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under Osisko Development's issuer profile and on the SEC's EDGAR website (www.sec.gov), for further information regarding the risks and other factors facing the Company, its business and operations. Although the Company's believes the expectations conveyed by the forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available as of the date hereof, no assurances can be given as to future results, levels of activity and achievements. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and there can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

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. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

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TORONTO, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sprott Inc. (NYSE/TSX: SII) (Sprott or the Company) today announced its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024.



Management commentary

We are pleased to report that during the second quarter of 2024, Sprotts Assets Under Management (AUM) reached $31.1 billion, up 6% from March 31, 2024 and up 8% from December 31, 2023, said Whitney George, CEO of Sprott. "After more than four years of positive net sales, we started 2024 with $284 million of net redemptions in the first quarter. This quarter, we returned to positive net sales with $357 million of net inflows and an additional $110 million from the recent initial public offering ("IPO") of the Sprott Physical Copper Trust ("COP"), bringing our net sales in the first half of the year to $183 million, inclusive of the COP IPO."

The IPO of COP was a strategic priority for Sprott and the latest addition to our critical materials investment strategies," continued Mr. George. "As the worlds first physical copper fund, COP is designed to provide investors with an alternative to investing in copper futures and a way for institutions and individual clients to complement their equity positions. Since the launch of the Sprott Physical Uranium Trust in 2021, we have established a global network of institutions, family offices and individuals seeking exposure to critical materials investment strategies. We look forward to engaging with this audience as we seek to scale COP."

Key AUM highlights 1

AUM was $31.1 billion as at June 30, 2024, up 6% from $29.4 billion as at March 31, 2024 and up 8% from $28.7 billion as at December 31, 2023. On a three and six months ended basis, we primarily benefited from market value appreciation in our precious metals physical trusts. We also benefited from net inflows to our exchange listed products and the launch of COP in the quarter.

Key revenue highlights

Management fees were $38.1 million in the quarter, up 16% from $32.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $74.4 million on a year-to-date basis, up 16% from $64.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. Carried interest and performance fees were $0.7 million in the quarter and on a year-to-date basis, up 80% from $0.4 million for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2023. Net fees were $34.4 million in the quarter, up 15% from $29.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $67.1 million on a year-to-date basis, up 16% from $58.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. Our revenue performance on both a three and six months ended basis was primarily due to higher average AUM on good market value appreciation across most of our exchange listed products since last year.

Commission revenues were $3.3 million in the quarter, up from $1.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $4.4 million on a year-to-date basis, down 32% from $6.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. Net commissions were $1.5 million in the quarter, up 34% from $1.1 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $2 million on a year-to-date basis, down 43% from $3.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. Higher commissions in the quarter were due to increased ATM activity in our physical uranium trust and the launch of COP. On a year-to-date basis, lower commissions were due to the sale of our former Canadian broker-dealer in the second quarter of last year.

Finance income was $4.1 million in the quarter, up from $1.7 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $5.9 million on a year-to-date basis, up 78% from $3.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The increase in finance income was due to higher income earned on streaming syndication activity.

Key expense highlights

Net compensation expense was $17.2 million in the quarter, up 12% from $15.3 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $33.5 million on a year-to-date basis, up 9% from $30.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The increase in the quarter was primarily due to increased AIP accruals on higher net fee generation.

SG&A expense was $5 million in the quarter, up 6% from $4.8 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $9.2 million on a year-to-date basis, up 5% from $8.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The increase was due to higher technology and professional services costs.

Earnings summary

Last year, our net income benefited from the realization of an $18.6 million non-recurring asset. Consequently, our net income this quarter of $13.4 million ($0.53 per share) was down 25% from $17.7 million ($0.70 per share) for the three months ended last year. On a year-to-date basis, net income was $24.9 million ($0.98 per share), down 2% from $25.4 million ($1.00 per share) last year. Excluding the impact of last years realization of a non-recurring asset, our second quarter net income was up $14.2 million, and up $18.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Our earnings benefited from higher management fees on improved market valuations in our precious metals exchange listed products, higher commission income on increased ATM activity in our critical materials exchange listed products and higher finance income in our private strategies segment due to higher streaming syndication fees. Our earnings also benefited from market value appreciation of our co-investments.

Adjusted base EBITDA was $22.4 million ($0.88 per share) in the quarter, up 25% from $18 million ($0.71 per share) for the quarter ended June 30, 2023 and $42.1 million ($1.66 per share) on a year-to-date basis, up 19% from $35.3 million ($1.40 per share) for the six months ended June 30, 2023. Adjusted base EBITDA on both a three and six months ended basis benefited from higher management fees on improved market valuations in our precious metals exchange listed products, higher commission income on increased ATM activity in our critical materials exchange listed products and higher finance income in our private strategies segment due to higher streaming syndication fees mentioned above.

1 See non-IFRS financial measures section in this press release and schedule 2 and 3 of "Supplemental financial information"

Subsequent events

Subsequent to quarter-end, on August 1, 2024, AUM was $31.5 billion, up 2% from $31.1 billion at June 30, 2024.

On August 6, 2024, the Sprott Board of Directors announced a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share.

Supplemental financial information

Please refer to the June 30, 2024 quarterly financial statements of the Company and the related management discussion and analysis filed earlier this morning for further details into the Company's financial position as at June 30, 2024 and the Company's financial performance for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024.

Schedule 1 - AUM continuity

3 months results (In millions $) AUM

Mar. 31, 2024 Net

inflows (1) Market

value changes Other

net inflows (1) AUM

Jun. 30, 2024 Net management

fee rate (2) Exchange listed products - Precious metals physical trusts and ETFs - Physical Gold Trust 6,895 99 289  7,283 0.35 % - Physical Silver Trust 4,242 51 701  4,994 0.45 % - Physical Gold and Silver Trust 4,401 (48 ) 357  4,710 0.40 % - Precious Metals ETFs 337 6 12  355 0.34 % - Physical Platinum & Palladium Trust 112 30 1  143 0.50 % 15,987 138 1,360  17,485 0.39 % - Critical materials physical trust and ETFs - Physical Uranium Trust 5,626 187 (198 )  5,615 0.32 % - Critical Materials ETFs 2,235 189 (16 )  2,408 0.58 % - Physical Copper Trust   (12 ) 110 98 0.32 % 7,861 376 (226 ) 110 8,121 0.39 % Total exchange listed products 23,848 514 1,134 110 25,606 0.39 % Managed equities (3) 2,923 (36 ) 98  2,985 0.92 % Private strategies 2,598 (121 ) (15 )  2,462 0.78 % Total AUM (4) 29,369 357 1,217 110 31,053 0.47 % 6 months results (In millions $) AUM

Dec. 31, 2023 Net

inflows (1) Market

value changes Other

net inflows (1) AUM

Jun. 30, 2024 Net management

fee rate (2) Exchange listed products - Precious metals physical trusts and ETFs - Physical Gold Trust 6,532 (45 ) 796  7,283 0.35 % - Physical Silver Trust 4,070 32 892  4,994 0.45 % - Physical Gold and Silver Trust 4,230 (161 ) 641  4,710 0.40 % - Precious Metals ETFs 339 (3 ) 19  355 0.34 % - Physical Platinum & Palladium Trust 116 35 (8 )  143 0.50 % 15,287 (142 ) 2,340  17,485 0.39 % - Critical materials physical trust and ETFs - Physical Uranium Trust 5,773 243 (401 )  5,615 0.32 % - Critical materials ETFs 2,143 238 27  2,408 0.58 % - Physical Copper Trust   (12 ) 110 98 0.32 % 7,916 481 (386 ) 110 8,121 0.39 % Total exchange listed products 23,203 339 1,954 110 25,606 0.39 % Managed equities (3) 2,890 (106 ) 201  2,985 0.92 % Private strategies 2,645 (160 ) (23 )  2,462 0.78 % Total AUM (4) 28,738 73 2,132 110 31,053 0.47 % (1) See "Net inflows" and "Other net inflows" in the key performance indicators and non-IFRS and other financial measures section of the MD&A. (2) Management fee rate represents the weighted average fees for all funds in the category, net of fund expenses. (3) Managed equities is made up of primarily precious metal strategies (55%), high net worth managed accounts (36%) and U.S. value strategies (9%). (4) No performance fees are earned on exchange listed products. Performance fees are earned on certain of our managed equities products and are based on returns above relevant benchmarks. Private strategies



LPs earn carried interest calculated as a predetermined net profit over a preferred return.



Schedule 2 - Summary financial information

(In thousands $) Q2

2024 Q1

2024 Q4

2023 Q3

2023 Q2

2023 Q1

2023 Q4

2022 Q3

2022 Summary income statement Management fees (1) 38,065 36,372 34,244 32,867 32,940 31,170 28,152 28,899 Fund expenses (2), (3) (2,657 ) (2,234 ) (2,200 ) (1,740 ) (1,871 ) (1,795 ) (1,470 ) (1,466 ) Direct payouts (1,408 ) (1,461 ) (1,283 ) (1,472 ) (1,342 ) (1,187 ) (1,114 ) (1,121 ) Carried interest and performance fees 698  503  388  1,219  Carried interest and performance fee payouts - internal (251 )  (222 )  (236 )  (567 )  Carried interest and performance fee payouts - external (3)       (121 )  Net fees 34,447 32,677 31,042 29,655 29,879 28,188 26,099 26,312 Commissions 3,332 1,047 1,331 539 1,647 4,784 5,027 6,101 Commission expense - internal (380 ) (217 ) (161 ) (88 ) (494 ) (1,727 ) (1,579 ) (2,385 ) Commission expense - external (3) (1,443 ) (312 ) (441 ) (92 ) (27 ) (642 ) (585 ) (476 ) Net commissions 1,509 518 729 359 1,126 2,415 2,863 3,240 Finance income (2) 4,084 1,810 1,391 1,795 1,650 1,655 1,738 1,274 Gain (loss) on investments 1,133 1,809 2,808 (1,441 ) (1,950 ) 1,958 (930 ) 45 Co-investment income (2) 416 274 170 462 1,327 93 370 249 Total net revenues (2) 41,589 37,088 36,140 30,830 32,032 34,309 30,140 31,120 Compensation (2) 19,225 17,955 17,096 16,939 21,468 19,556 17,148 19,044 Direct payouts (1,408 ) (1,461 ) (1,283 ) (1,472 ) (1,342 ) (1,187 ) (1,114 ) (1,121 ) Carried interest and performance fee payouts - internal (251 )  (222 )  (236 )  (567 )  Commission expense - internal (380 ) (217 ) (161 ) (88 ) (494 ) (1,727 ) (1,579 ) (2,385 ) Severance, new hire accruals and other   (179 ) (122 ) (4,067 ) (1,257 ) (1,240 ) (1,349 ) Net compensation 17,186 16,277 15,251 15,257 15,329 15,385 12,648 14,189 Severance, new hire accruals and other   179 122 4,067 1,257 1,240 1,349 Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") (2) 5,040 4,173 3,963 3,817 4,752 4,026 3,814 4,051 SG&A recoveries from funds (1) (260 ) (231 ) (241 ) (249 ) (282 ) (264 ) (253 ) (259 ) Interest expense 715 830 844 882 1,087 1,247 1,076 884 Depreciation and amortization 568 551 658 731 748 706 710 710 Foreign exchange (gain) loss (2) 122 168 1,295 37 1,440 440 (484 ) 3,020 Other (income) and expenses (2) (580 )  3,368 4,809 (18,890 ) 1,249 1,686 3,384 Total expenses 22,791 21,768 25,317 25,406 8,251 24,046 20,437 27,328 Net income 13,360 11,557 9,664 6,773 17,724 7,638 7,331 3,071 Net income per share 0.53 0.45 0.38 0.27 0.70 0.30 0.29 0.12 Adjusted base EBITDA 22,375 19,751 18,759 17,854 17,953 17,321 18,083 16,837 Adjusted base EBITDA per share 0.88 0.78 0.75 0.71 0.71 0.68 0.72 0.67 Summary balance sheet Total assets 406,265 389,784 378,835 375,948 381,519 386,765 383,748 375,386 Total liabilities 90,442 82,365 73,130 79,705 83,711 108,106 106,477 103,972 Total AUM 31,053,136 29,369,191 28,737,742 25,398,159 25,141,561 25,377,189 23,432,661 21,044,252 Average AUM 31,378,343 29,035,667 27,014,109 25,518,250 25,679,214 23,892,335 22,323,075 21,420,015

(1) Previously, management fees within the above summary financial information table included SG&A recoveries from funds consistent with IFRS 15. For management reporting purposes, these recoveries are now shown next to their associated expense as management believes this will enable readers to transparently identify the net economics of these recoveries. However, SG&A recoveries from funds are still shown within the "Management fees" line on the consolidated statement of operations. Prior year figures have been reclassified to conform with current presentation.

(2) Current and prior period figures on the consolidated statements of operations include the following adjustments: (1) trading costs incurred in managed accounts are now included within "Fund expenses" (previously included within "SG&A"), (2) interest income earned on cash deposits are now included within "Finance income" (previously included within "Other income"), (3) co-investment income and income attributable to non-controlling interest are now included as part of "Co-investment income" (previously included within "Other income"), (4) expenses attributable to non-controlling interest is now included within "Co-investment income" (previously included within "Other expenses"), (5) the mark-to-market expense of DSU issuances are now included within "Compensation" (previously included within "Other expenses"), (6) foreign exchange (gain) loss is now shown separately (previously included within "Other expenses"); and (7) shares received on a previously unrecorded contingent asset in Q2 2023 are now included within "Other (income) and expenses" (previously included within "Other income"). Prior year figures have been reclassified to conform with current presentation.

(3) These amounts are included in the "Fund expenses" line on the consolidated statements of operations.

Schedule 3 - EBITDA reconciliation

3 months ended 6 months ended (in thousands $) Jun. 30, 2024 Jun. 30, 2023 Jun. 30, 2024 Jun. 30, 2023 Net income for the period 13,360 17,724 24,917 25,362 Adjustments: Interest expense 715 1,087 1,545 2,334 Provision for income taxes 5,438 6,057 9,201 8,682 Depreciation and amortization 568 748 1,119 1,454 EBITDA 20,081 25,616 36,782 37,832 Adjustments: (Gain) loss on investments (1) (1,133 ) 1,950 (2,942 ) (8 ) Stock-based compensation (2) 4,332 3,922 9,023 8,039 Foreign exchange (gain) loss (3) 122 1,440 290 1,880 Severance, new hire accruals and other (3)  4,067  5,324 Revaluation of contingent consideration (3) (580 ) (2,254 ) (580 ) (2,254 ) Costs relating to exit of non-core business (3)  1,372  1,372 Non-recurring regulatory, professional fees and other (3)  580  1,829 Shares received on recognition of contingent asset (3)  (18,588 )  (18,588 ) Carried interest and performance fees (698 ) (388 ) (698 ) (388 ) Carried interest and performance fee payouts - internal 251 236 251 236 Carried interest and performance fee payouts - external     Adjusted base EBITDA 22,375 17,953 42,126 35,274 Adjusted base EBITDA margin (4) 58 % 57 % 58 % 57 %

(1) This adjustment removes the income effects of certain gains or losses on short-term investments, co-investments, and digital gold strategies to ensure the reporting objectives of our EBITDA metric as described below are met.

(2) In prior years, the mark-to-market expense of DSU issuances were included with "other (income) and expenses". In the current period, these costs are included as part of "stock based compensation". Prior year figures have been reclassified to conform with current presentation.

(3) Foreign exchange (gain) and loss, severance, new hire accruals and other; revaluation of contingent consideration; costs relating to exit of non-core business; non-recurring regulatory, professional fees and other; and shares received on recognition of contingent asset were previously included with "other (income) and expenses" and are now shown separately in the reconciliation of adjusted base EBITDA above. Prior year figures have been reclassified to conform with current presentation.

(4) Prior year figures have been restated to remove the adjustment of depreciation and amortization.

Conference Call and Webcast

A webcast will be held today, August 7, 2024 at 10:00 am ET to discuss the Company's financial results.

To listen to the webcast, please register at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/o98gu3w8

Please note, analysts who cover the Company should register at: https://register.vevent.com/register/BIab693a7d3e344814b015460b3e74ffe0

Non-IFRS Financial Measures

This press release includes financial terms (including AUM, net commissions, net fees, expenses, adjusted base EBITDA, adjusted base EBITDA margin and net compensation) that the Company utilizes to assess the financial performance of its business that are not measures recognized under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). These non-IFRS measures should not be considered alternatives to performance measures determined in accordance with IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Non-IFRS financial measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Our key performance indicators and non-IFRS and other financial measures are discussed below. For quantitative reconciliations of non-IFRS financial measures to their most directly comparable IFRS financial measures please see schedule 2 and schedule 3 of the "Supplemental financial information" section of this press release.

Net fees

Management fees, net of fund expenses and direct payouts, and carried interest and performance fees, net of carried interest and performance fee payouts (internal and external), are key revenue indicators as they represent the net revenue contribution after directly associated costs that we generate from our AUM.

Net commissions

Commissions, net of commission expenses (internal and external), arise primarily from purchases and sales of critical materials in our exchange listed products segment and transaction-based service offerings by our broker dealers.

Net compensation

Net compensation excludes commission expenses paid to employees, other direct payouts to employees, carried interest and performance fee payouts to employees, which are all presented net of their related revenues in the MD&A, and severance, new hire accruals and other which are non-recurring.

EBITDA, adjusted base EBITDA and adjusted base EBITDA margin

EBITDA in its most basic form is defined as earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA (or adjustments thereto) is a measure commonly used in the investment industry by management, investors and investment analysts in understanding and comparing results by factoring out the impact of different financing methods, capital structures, amortization techniques and income tax rates between companies in the same industry. While other companies, investors or investment analysts may not utilize the same method of calculating EBITDA (or adjustments thereto), the Company believes its adjusted base EBITDA metric results in a better comparison of the Company's underlying operations against its peers and a better indicator of recurring results from operations as compared to other non-IFRS financial measures. Adjusted base EBITDA margins are a key indicator of a companys profitability on a per dollar of revenue basis, and as such, is commonly used in the financial services sector by analysts, investors and management.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release contain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively referred to herein as the "Forward-Looking Statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. The use of any of the words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify Forward-Looking Statements. In particular, but without limiting the forgoing, this press release contains Forward-Looking Statements pertaining to: (i) our ability to scale COP; and (ii) the declaration, payment and designation of dividends and confidence that our business will support the dividend level without impacting our ability to fund future growth initiatives.

Although the Company believes that the Forward-Looking Statements are reasonable, they are not guarantees of future results, performance or achievements. A number of factors or assumptions have been used to develop the Forward-Looking Statements, including: (i) the impact of increasing competition in each business in which the Company operates will not be material; (ii) quality management will be available; (iii) the effects of regulation and tax laws of governmental agencies will be consistent with the current environment; (iv) the impact of public health outbreaks; and (v) those assumptions disclosed under the heading "Critical Accounting Estimates, Judgments and Changes in Accounting Policies" in the Companys MD&A for the period ended June 30, 2024. Actual results, performance or achievements could vary materially from those expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Statements should assumptions underlying the Forward-Looking Statements prove incorrect or should one or more risks or other factors materialize, including: (i) difficult market conditions; (ii) poor investment performance; (iii) failure to continue to retain and attract quality staff; (iv) employee errors or misconduct resulting in regulatory sanctions or reputational harm; (v) performance fee fluctuations; (vi) a business segment or another counterparty failing to pay its financial obligation; (vii) failure of the Company to meet its demand for cash or fund obligations as they come due; (viii) changes in the investment management industry; (ix) failure to implement effective information security policies, procedures and capabilities; (x) lack of investment opportunities; (xi) risks related to regulatory compliance; (xii) failure to manage risks appropriately; (xiii) failure to deal appropriately with conflicts of interest; (xiv) competitive pressures; (xv) corporate growth which may be difficult to sustain and may place significant demands on existing administrative, operational and financial resources; (xvi) failure to comply with privacy laws; (xvii) failure to successfully implement succession planning; (xviii) foreign exchange risk relating to the relative value of the U.S. dollar; (xix) litigation risk; (xx) failure to develop effective business resiliency plans; (xxi) failure to obtain or maintain sufficient insurance coverage on favorable economic terms; (xxii) historical financial information being not necessarily indicative of future performance; (xxiii) the market price of common shares of the Company may fluctuate widely and rapidly; (xxiv) risks relating to the Companys investment products; (xxv) risks relating to the Company's proprietary investments; (xxvi) risks relating to the Company's private strategies business; (xxvii) those risks described under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Companys annual information form dated February 20, 2024; and (xxviii) those risks described under the headings "Managing Financial Risks" and "Managing Non-Financial Risks" in the Companys MD&A for the period ended June 30, 2024. In addition, the payment of dividends is not guaranteed and the amount and timing of any dividends payable by the Company will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Company and will be established on the basis of the Companys earnings, the satisfaction of solvency tests imposed by applicable corporate law for the declaration and payment of dividends, and other relevant factors. The Forward-Looking Statements speak only as of the date hereof, unless otherwise specifically noted, and the Company does not assume any obligation to publicly update any Forward-Looking Statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be expressly required by applicable securities laws.

About Sprott

Sprott is a global leader in precious metals and critical materials investments. We are specialists. Our in-depth knowledge, experience and relationships separate us from the generalists. Our investment strategies include Exchange Listed Products, Managed Equities and Private Strategies. Sprott has offices in Toronto, New York, Connecticut and California and the companys common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol (SII). For more information, please visit www.sprott.com.

Investor contact information:

Glen Williams

Managing Partner

Investor and Institutional Client Relations;

Head of Corporate Communications

(416) 943-4394

gwilliams@sprott.com
TORONTO, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Giyani Metals Corp. (TSXV:EMM, GR:A2DUU8) ("Giyani" or the "Company"), developer of the K.Hill Battery-Grade Manganese Project in Botswana ("K.Hill" or the Project), is pleased to provide an update on construction of the Demonstration Plant (Demo Plant).

Highlights:

Substantial progress has been made at the Demo Plant in July with the installation of five additional modular process skids ( Process Modules ). Seven of the nine Process Modules have now been installed.

). Seven of the nine Process Modules have now been installed. The five new Process Modules include: Three purification circuits (installed in two Process Modules), including reactors, filter feed tanks and filtrate tanks. These modules form the core of the hydrometallurgical process and allow the removal of impurities ahead of crystallisation. Reagent make-up, comprising powder debagging stations and dissolution tanks for three primary reagent systems. Reagents will be dosed throughout the plant at the required locations. The filtration Process Module, complete with four filter presses which serve the various impurity removal processes. Water treatment and storage, including both process water and Reverse Osmosis water systems.

Installation of the instrumentation and electrical cabling, as well as piping works have commenced and are near complete for the Crystallizer Unit and the internal Crystallizer Process Module. This intricate work will progress to the other Process Modules in sequence.

In terms of services, the ventilation system installation is complete. This purpose-built system is designed to ensure a safe and comfortable operating environment within the plant. The main reticulation for the utility steam system has been installed and successfully pressure tested.

Civil works for the external waste storage tank system are in progress. The waste storage system collects process discharge and waste streams. These streams will be analysed to aid in the design and cost optimisation of the water recovery system designs for the commercial plant.

Simulation test work continues on the Yokogawa Distributed Control System ( DCS ) software that will be used to control the Demo Plant, which will operate as a continuous process flow, rather than on batch or lock-cycle methods. This is a massive advantage of the Demo Plant allowing Giyani to understand how the Commercial Plant will respond ahead of construction.

) software that will be used to control the Demo Plant, which will operate as a continuous process flow, rather than on batch or lock-cycle methods. This is a massive advantage of the Demo Plant allowing Giyani to understand how the Commercial Plant will respond ahead of construction. The Project remains on track for commissioning and production of battery-grade manganese in Q4 2024 for offtaker testing and qualification.

Danny Keating, President and CEO of the Company, commented:

It is exciting to see the Demo Plant coming together and appreciating the scale of the facility we are constructing, which is expected to be one of the largest battery-grade manganese process testing and optimization facilities in the world. Successful construction and operation of the Demo Plant is key to demonstrating the inherent value of the Project to investors.

The Plants ability to operate continuously at this pre-commercial scale will allow Giyani to understand how the Commercial Plant will respond ahead of construction, pre-emptively detecting and de-risking potential issues that could arise during ramp-up.

The value of this facility as a tool to optimize our proprietary flowsheet and reduce operating costs will be immeasurable. The most important feature will be that we will now be able to provide offtakers with tonnes of product for testing, rather than providing samples measured in grams. This level of production is not usually available until commercial production is achieved, further de-risking the Project for our potential partners and financiers.

Demo Plant Construction Update

The Demo Plant will consist of nine Process Modules, each a self-contained process system within a fixed frame. An additional five of these Process Modules have been installed since the June update (see June 20, 2024 news release), see Figures 1A, 1B, 2, 4 and 5 below





Figure 1A and 1B: Purification Process Modules 1 & 2

The Demo Plant construction process follows a set order of Module installation to allow sufficient working space in the plant as well as simultaneous activities to speed up construction and ultimately commissioning. The plant is built from the Crystallizer Units to the ore delivery and ball mill, with the detailed piping and instrumentation following the Module installation. Within the Plant, the following progress has been made:

all nine bases/footings for the Process Modules have been installed;

seven of nine Process Modules have been installed;

all eight ventilation circuits have been installed;

instrumentation & wiring is complete on the first Process Module and is in progress on the second Process Module;

the utility steam systems have been successfully pressure tested, and concrete has been poured for the external waste storage tank system;

assembly of the remaining Process Modules continues offsite for transportation and installation at the Demo Plant.

Construction and Commission

Five additional Process Modules have been installed since June and are shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 2, 4 and 5 below.



Figure 2: Reagent Make-up Process Module

The Demo Plant is at 1:10 engineering scale of the planned commercial plant in Kanye, Botswana (Commercial Plant). For example, the leach tanks have a 60cm diameter in the Demo Plant and this is expected to be 8-10x larger at approximately 5m in the Commercial Plant.

Figure 3: Demo Plant Render

The detailed construction program takes advantage of sequential mechanical, piping, electrical, and instrumentation installation to allow cold commissioning to follow the Process Module sequence in a highly efficient manner.

Figure 4: Filtration Process Module

Construction of Process Modules continues from the South end of the facility to the North. Once installed, Process Modules are completed mechanically, electrically and then fitted out with piping and instrumentation. After this, the initial stages of commissioning C1, C2 and C3 are undertaken at an individual Process Module level. Commissioning of the full process flow (C4 & C5) will only be concluded once all of the individual Process Modules are complete.

Stages of construction:

C1 - Mechanical Completion

C2 - Dry testing, direction testing, loop testing

C3 - Cold/Water Commissioning, software testing

C4 - Hot Commissioning with reagents and steam

C5 - Production Ramp-up





Figure 5: Water Treatment & Storage Process Module

As part of the construction process, the Company and Met63 Ltd (Met63), the EPCM contractor for the Demo Plant, have agreed to restructure the two site teams and create a single, combined team to improve efficiencies and management of the project. The existing agreement between the two companies (previously announced on September 6, 2022), already envisaged a transition and hand-over of the plant from Met63 to Giyani and this process will now commence as the plant commissioning phase approaches. The revised agreements will bring synergies as the combined team provides direct experience in the final phases of construction and importantly assist Giyani in its preparations for commissioning and ultimately operation of the Plant.

Demo Plant Operations Update

Giyani is continuing with software development and simulation test work on the Yokogawa DCS software that will be used to operate Giyanis fully continuous process facility. The ability to continuously operate at this pre-commercial scale will allow Giyani to understand how the Commercial Plant will respond ahead of construction, minimizing issues that could arise during ramp-up. Unlike a lab- or pilot-scale operation, a full, industrial control system is required to operate this large-scale, automated, hydrometallurgical plant.

The development of all process standard operating procedures (SOPs) is now complete. As the Demo Plant is a duplicate of the anticipated Commercial Plant, the overall operating requirements and system requirements are very similar. Alongside the engineering, commercial and research benefits of the Demo Plant, the development of SOPs will facilitate a smooth transition to full-scale production.

Finalization of the contract for the on-site, independent, ISO-certified, hydrometallurgical laboratory is imminent. This laboratory, which includes ICP-OES and XRF equipment, will allow full commercial-level metal accounting and provide rapid assay turnaround times to enable effective operation of the Demo Plant.

About Giyani

Giyani is focussed on becoming the dominant western-world producer of sustainable, low carbon high purity battery grade manganese for the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The Company has developed a proprietary hydrometallurgical process to produce battery grade manganese (HPMSM), a lithium-ion battery cathode precursor material critical for EVs.

The Company has secured US$26m in financing from two strategic partners, ARCH Sustainable Resources Fund LP and the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa, as it aims to progress the K.Hill battery-grade manganese project in Botswana to construction by building and operating the Demo Plant and completing a Definitive Feasibility Study by H1 2025.

Additional information and corporate documents may be found on www.sedarplus.ca and on Giyani Metals Corp. website at https://giyanimetals.com/ .

Qualified Persons / NI 43-101 Disclosures

A National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) technical report including results of the PEA and the MRE can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and made available on the Company's website at https://giyanimetals.com/.

Mr. Justin Taylor CEng FIMMM QMR BSc Eng (Chem) is a qualified person, as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Taylor is the Companys Group Process Engineer and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical content contained in this news release but is not independent for the purposes of NI 43-101.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Giyani Metals Corp.

Danny Keating, President and CEO

Contact:

Tel: +1289-291-7632

Danny Keating, President & CEO

dkeating@giyanimetals.com

Charles FitzRoy, Head of Corporate Development & Strategy

cfitzroy@giyanimetals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

The securities described herein have not been 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 to, or for the account or benefit of, persons in the United States or "U.S. persons," as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act ("U.S. Persons"), except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company's securities to, or for the account of benefit of, persons in the United States or U.S. Persons.

Forward Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events or developments that Giyani expects to occur, are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "does not expect", "plans", "anticipates", "does not anticipate", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential", "scheduled", "forecast", "budget" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur.

Such statements include without limitation: the Company the ongoing construction, commissioning and operation of the Demo Plant, installation of additional Process Modules, design and finalization of the lab, and timing thereof, completion and timing of the DFS or at all.

All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of the relevant management as of the date such statements are made and are subject to certain assumptions, important risk factors and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Giyani's ability to control or predict. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In the case of Giyani, these facts include anticipated operations in future periods, planned exploration and development of its properties, and plans related to its business and other matters that may occur in the future. This information relates to analyses and other information that is based on expectations of future performance and planned work programs.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information, including, without limitation: inherent exploration hazards and risks; risks related to exploration and development of natural resource properties; uncertainty in Giyani's ability to obtain funding; commodity price fluctuations; recent market events and conditions; risks related to the uncertainty of Mineral Resource calculations and the inclusion of Inferred Mineral Resources in economic estimation; risks related to governmental regulations; risks related to obtaining necessary licences and permits; risks related to Giyani's business being subject to environmental laws and regulations; risks related to the Company's mineral properties being subject to prior unregistered agreements, transfers, or claims and other defects in title; risks relating to competition from larger companies with greater financial and technical resources; risks relating to the inability to meet financial obligations under agreements to which they are a party; ability to recruit and retain qualified personnel; and risks related to the Company's directors and officers becoming associated with other natural resource companies which may give rise to conflicts of interests. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect Giyani's forward-looking information. 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 the forward-looking information or statements.

Giyani's forward-looking information is based on the reasonable beliefs, expectations and opinions of the Company's respective management on the date the statements are made, and Giyani does not assume any obligation to update forward looking information if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions change, except as required by law. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. For a complete discussion with respect to Giyani and risks associated with forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, please refer to Giyani's continuous disclosure documents which are filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at

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Dallas, TX, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Dickeys Barbecue Pit is offering grocery store shoppers across the country some great deals during the upcoming back to school season.

If you didnt already know, Dickeys began selling their quality meats, sauces and dry rubs in grocery stores across the country in 2016. The Texas-style barbecue brand currently offers Sams Club shoppers their world famous, original polish smoked sausage in 36 stores across North Texas and are now offering the customers a mouthwatering 36 oz Club Pack. For a limited time, Sams Club guests can receive $1 off the 36 oz sausage club pack from August 27th through September 3rd.

Additionally, back to school retail shoppers and barbecue lovers of Kroger, Bashas and Safeway can take advantage of additional discounts offered by the famous barbecue brand listed below:

Kroger: Back to School deal from 8/21 through 8/27

Items: Hot links, Spicy Cheddar and Original Ropes

Discount Price: $3 each

Bashas: Back to School deal from 8/12 through 8/29

Items: Hot Links, Spicy Cheddar and Original Ropes

Discount Price: $5.49

Safeway Denver: Back to School deal from 8/07 through 8/13

Items: Sliced Brisket w/ BBQ Sauce and Pre-cooked Pulled Chicken w/ Honey Sauce

Discounted Price: Brisket for $12.49 and Pre-cooked Pulled Chicken: $8.49

Safeway Denver: Back to School deal from 8/14 through 8/20

Items: All our Sausage Links (Hot link, Jalapeno Cheddar, and Original Polish)

Discount Price: $5.49

"What better way to kick off the school year than with some Legit. Texas. Barbecue. said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Pit. Partnering with Sams, Kroger, Bashas and Safeway has been a fantastic experience, and we look forward treating their guests to our award-winning sausage, a family recipe made by Dickeys in Mesquite, Texas.

Want to set up a catering for your school instead? Call Dickeys catering experts at 1.866.BARBECUE (866.227.2328) or request a quote on dickeys.com to discover the variety of catering options available for Fourth of July celebrations of any size

We know back to school time can be busy and stressful for everyone, said Roland Dickey Jr., CEO Dickeys Capital Group. Therefore, we are happy to offer shoppers our quality barbecue, especially our signature smoked kielbasa sausage at a discounted price this month.

To learn more, follow Dickeys Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickeys Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the worlds largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 80 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 44 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue.  At Dickeys, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickeys is led by both Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO, Dickeys Capital Group, who has lead the brands international expansion into 8 countries, as well as the opening of their USDA Certified manufacturing and distribution plant in Mesquite Texas, and his wife, Laura Rea Dickey, CEO, Dickeys Barbecue Pit, Inc. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 8 wholesome sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. Dickeys Barbecue has over 500 locations across the United States and eight other countries.

Dickeys was named to Newsweeks 2022 Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains list, Nations Restaurant News 2024 list for Fast-casual restaurant brands that scored the highest for value, and USA Today 2021 readers choice awards. Dickeys has finished in the Top 20 of the Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers four out of the past five years. The barbecue brand been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was recently named to D Magazines Top 500 CEOs in 2023, was named among the countrys 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nations Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickey's Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickeys Barbecue is part of Dickeys Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com.

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PALO ALTO, Calif., Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Anjuna , creator of Anjuna Seaglass, the Universal Confidential Computing Platform, today announced that it has closed a $25 million Series B2 financing round to propel and expand its AI-enabling enterprise offerings. The round was led by M Ventures , the corporate VC of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, SineWave Ventures , and AI Capital Partners (Alpha Intelligence Capitals U.S.-based fund), with participation from existing investors Founder Collective , Insight Partners , Playground Global , and Uncorrelated . Additionally, M Ventures Ilja Aizenberg and SineWaves Patricia Muoio are joining the companys board of directors.



Confidential Computing is a novel category of hardware-enabled infrastructure security. However, its heterogeneous nature has historically made it complex to implement. The transition to Universal Confidential Computing unlocked by Anjuna Seaglass , a software platform that virtualizes this new class of processors, makes Trusted Execution Environments accessible in minutes, regardless of cloud service provider, infrastructure and applications.

We are delighted to partner with Anjuna, the leader in Confidential Computing. Anjuna Seaglass provides a multi-cloud platform for secure AI-driven collaboration, which is critical in enabling industries such as healthcare and semiconductors to fully exploit their data's massive potential. This partnership underscores our commitment to secure collaboration between multiple parties using highly sensitive or regulated data, said Ilja Aizenberg from M Ventures.

Fueling Accelerated Growth and Innovation

Building on strong customer and partnership momentum, Anjuna has achieved substantial growth in revenue and customer acquisition, with its bookings and customer base more than doubling year over year.

The latest funding round will help Anjuna expand its AI-enabling enterprise offerings, highlighted by the launch of Anjuna Seaglass AI Clean Rooms , now available in private preview. By uniquely leveraging Confidential Computing to establish secure data-sharing environments, it is poised to propel enterprise multi-party collaboration in AI and other mission-critical use cases.

Shaping Trustworthy AI for U.S. Navy with NVIDIA Collaboration

A member of NVIDIA Inception , a program for cutting-edge startups, Anjuna is collaborating with NVIDIA to help advance GPU-accelerated confidential AI for enterprises. By using Anjuna Seaglass on NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs with Confidential Computing capabilities, organizations are equipped to accelerate the deployment of high-performing large language models (LLMs) without compromising trust, security, and privacy.

Leveraging Anjuna Seaglass with NVIDIA LaunchPad , the U.S. Navy successfully tested Llama3 LLM models on confidential NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs. The seamless integration enabled the U.S. Navy to create and deploy confidential environments in less than one hour, while obtaining high-speed processing with maximum performance.

We believe in democratizing secure computing, data privacy, and trustworthy AI, affirmed Ayal Yogev, CEO & Co-founder of Anjuna Security. With NVIDIA accelerated computing and our flexible Seaglass platform, Anjuna is poised to deliver universal access to Confidential Computing for businesses worldwide.

Resources:

Anjuna Confidential AI, powered by NVIDIA GPUs [Brochure]: anjuna.io/confidential-ai-brochure

Anjuna Confidential AI, powered by NVIDIA GPUs [Video]: anjuna.io/confidential-ai-video

Anjuna Seaglass AI Clean Rooms [White Paper]: anjuna.io/seaglass-ai-clean-rooms-wp

Anjuna Free Trial: anjuna.io/anjuna-free-trial

About Anjuna

Anjuna created Anjuna Seaglass, the first Universal Confidential Computing Platform, capable of running applications in any cloud with complete data security and privacy. Anjuna Seaglass isolates workloads in a hardware-assisted environment that intrinsically secures data in every state to create a Zero Trust environment for code and data. Anjuna Seaglass empowers enterprises to directly control application-level trust policies, ensuring that only trusted code can access sensitive data. Anjuna works with enterprises around the globe in industries such as financial services, government, and blockchain. To learn more about Anjuna Seaglass and its impact, visit anjuna.io

About M Ventures

M Ventures is the strategic, corporate venture capital arm of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. From its headquarters in the Netherlands and offices in Germany, USA and Israel, M Ventures invests globally in transformational ideas driven by innovative entrepreneurs. Taking an active role in its portfolio companies, M Ventures teams up with management teams and co-investors to translate scientific discoveries into commercial success. M Ventures focuses on investing along the two extensive investment areas Biotechnology and Technology in alignment with the strategic interest of the parent company. We cover the areas of Healthcare drug development, Life Science tools, Electronics, and Frontier Technology & Sustainability. For more information, visit m-ventures.com

About SineWave Ventures

SineWave Ventures occupies the valuable space where the Valley, Fortune 500, and the Public Sector interact. We are an early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to accelerating technologies across the Fortune 500 and public sector ecosystems. The firm currently has over $300mm in committed capital across diversified funds. Our value lies in the expertise that drives our thesis, our ability to help companies navigate unfamiliar verticals and generate diverse revenue sources, and our unique networks that we can draw on to help our portfolio companies. Our thesis-driven investment has resulted in a concentrated portfolio focused on computing, cybersecurity, networking, and data and analytics. For more information, visit sinewave.vc

About Alpha Intelligence Capital (AIC)

Alpha Intelligence Capital (AIC) is a global venture capital platform that invests in deep Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) technology-based companies. AICs core focus lies in companies in the Series-A to Series-D stages, developing breakthrough products and solving real business problems. The teams at AIC operate out of San Francisco, Paris, and Singapore. For more information, visit aicapital.ai

Media Contact:

Mauricio Barra, VP of Marketing for Anjuna

Email: mauricio.barra@anjuna.io

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

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NEW YORK, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mage Data today announced the release of R24, the latest version of our groundbreaking platform that redefines test data management through a powerful combination of conversational UI, generative AI, and robust data privacy measures. This latest iteration marks a significant milestone in the company's mission to empower organizations with unparalleled data security and privacy while accelerating their digital transformation journeys. In an era where AI is reshaping the tech landscape, we are embracing this wave of innovation with the debut of our pioneering Gen-AI data security solutions.



At Mage Data, our product enhancements are driven by a commitment to customer feedback and innovation. R24 is designed to address the evolving challenges faced by businesses in today's complex data landscape. This release highlights this commitment with our focus on elevating user experience to an unparalleled level and setting new industry standards. By integrating cutting-edge technology with a user-centric approach, Mage Data has created a platform that simplifies complex tasks, strengthens data protection, and accelerates time-to-market. With R24, organizations can unlock the full potential of their data with confidence, knowing that their sensitive information is secure and compliant.

R24 is designed to revolutionize the way enterprises identify and protect sensitive data:

Conversational UI

Streamline test data management using our conversational interface enabling easy self-service, faster onboarding and enhanced efficiency

Streamline test data management using our conversational interface enabling easy self-service, faster onboarding and enhanced efficiency Gen-AI Ready

Tackle Gen-AI needs by enabling secure training, safe interactions and enforce uniform masking policies for all types of data

Tackle Gen-AI needs by enabling secure training, safe interactions and enforce uniform masking policies for all types of data Built-in Data Catalog

Mage Datas built-in data catalog, offers centralized metadata, automatic classification, data lineage visualization, and bridges any knowledge gaps for better data management

Mage Datas built-in data catalog, offers centralized metadata, automatic classification, data lineage visualization, and bridges any knowledge gaps for better data management Next-gen Test Data Pipeline

Optimize test data management with our next-gen pipeline, featuring agile scaling, flexible data movement, 50+ anonymization methods, and configurable integrations

Optimize test data management with our next-gen pipeline, featuring agile scaling, flexible data movement, 50+ anonymization methods, and configurable integrations Privacy-Enhancing

Enhance privacy with our witness protection program for your PII  replace sensitive data with real-like data or preserve original formats through encryption, and maintain referential integrity

Enhance privacy with our witness protection program for your PII  replace sensitive data with real-like data or preserve original formats through encryption, and maintain referential integrity Flexible Deployment

Simplify and speed-up deployment with on-premises and cloud-agnostic options, seamless DevOps integration including automatic file anonymization using watchdogs

Testimonials:

"Mage Data's latest update adds several significant improvements to the platform. While its new generative AI capabilities - specifically, its ability to anonymize data that goes into or comes out of your AI models - will likely command the greatest attention, its other added features, such as log masking and a conversational UI, are more than worthy of note as well."

 Daniel Howard, Senior Analyst, Bloor Research-Independent Research and Analyst Firm

A few notes from our leaders:

R24 represents a transformative step forward in test data management, combining the power of conversational UI and generative AI with cutting-edge data privacy measures. We are committed to equipping organizations with the tools they need to accelerate digital transformation while ensuring data security and compliance.

 Padma Vemuri, Senior Vice President-Chief Solutions Architect of Mage Data

We are thrilled to unveil our R24 release, which marks a significant milestone in our mission to empower businesses with unparalleled data security and privacy. These cutting-edge solutions are a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation and addressing the evolving challenges faced by organizations in today's complex data landscape. I am proud to say that my team has accomplished this monumental task in one release.

 Anil Bhat, Chief Technology Officer of Mage Data

Empowering Data Privacy and Efficiency with AI-Driven Innovation: R24 stands at the forefront of data security, transforming the landscape with its Gen-AI capabilities and privacy-enhancing features, ensuring enterprises are well-equipped for the data-driven future."

 Thumeera Thirumal, Vice President Customer and Partner Success of Mage Data

R24 is a game-changer for organizations seeking to unlock the full potential of their data. By integrating cutting-edge technology with a user-centric approach, we have created a platform that streamlines complex tasks, fortifies data privacy, and accelerates organizations time to market. Our commitment to addressing the ever-evolving challenges encountered by organizations in today's complex data landscape drives our mission forward.

 Khaleel Shaheena, Vice President Technology of Mage Data

"I am incredibly proud to introduce R24, our latest innovation in data security. Staying true to Mage Datas customer-focused approach, R24 is more user-friendly and self-service ready, making it easier than ever to implement and adopt. We've ensured seamless support for new technologies like Gen-AI, effortless extension to new datastores, and enabled secure data pipelines from any-to-any datastore. R24 is tailored to address our customers' current security challenges as well as meet emerging needs.

 Krishnan Cheerath, Director of Product and Design at Mage Data

About Mage Data

Mage Data is the leading solutions provider of data security and data privacy software for global enterprises, earning recognition from industry analysts as "Champion in Test Data Management" by Bloor Research, "Strong Performer in Dynamic Data Masking" by Forrester Wave, and Leader in Data Security Platforms by KuppingerCole. Built upon a patented and award-winning solution, the Mage platform enables organizations to stay on top of privacy regulations while ensuring security and privacy of data. Top Swiss banks, Fortune 10 organizations, Ivy League universities, and industry leaders in the financial and healthcare businesses protect their sensitive data with the Mage Data platform for Data Privacy and Security. Deploying industry-leading privacy enhancing technologies for securing data, Mage Data delivers robust data security while ensuring privacy of individuals.

Visit www.magedata.ai to explore the brands new website and to check out the companys solutions.

Media Contact:

Deeksha Surya

3 Columbus Circle, 15th Floor New York, NY 10019

Telephone: +1 212 203 4365

Email: info@magedata.ai
Play carried 187.835 passengers in July 2024, achieving a load factor of 88.4%. Of these passengers flying with Play in July, 31.1% were flying from Iceland, 30.7% were flying to Iceland, and 38.2% were connecting passengers (VIA).



Play continues to gain market share in Iceland, with a 13% year-over-year increase in passengers flying from Iceland58 thousand in July 2024 compared to 51 thousand in July 2023.

Play's on-time performance was 85.4% in July 2024, compared to 80.2% in July 2023.

"It is encouraging to see our number of passengers traveling from Iceland, our local market, rise by seven thousand year-over-year. We aim to have a wide selection of leisure destinations that people from Iceland want to visit, and we are seeing a good return from that decision. We feel that people in Iceland are happy with our services and the numbers reflect that.



As we reported in our Q2 result, the VIA market this summer has been soft due to growth in seat capacity on direct services across the Atlantic. This is reflected in our July traffic numbers. However, forward bookings are currently ahead of last year giving us the encouraging sign that the trend will reverse in the coming months. Also, we have adjusted our route network by reducing our seat capacity to/from North America for the fall and winter to reflect fluctuating demand better, and simultaneously, we are adding more seats to existing and new leisure markets in Europe and Africa, which have yielded higher returns for Play. This demonstrates the flexibility of our route network, allowing us to adjust based on demand. This adaptability would not have been possible without my outstanding colleagues at Play, who once again made Play the most punctual of the leading airlines operating flights from Keflavik International Airport. This significantly aids our operations and ensures our passengers enjoy timely and pleasant flights," says Einar Orn Olafsson, Play's CEO.

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Toronto, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Restaurants Canada supports the Federal Governments announcement that it is considering new regulations aimed at enhancing the integrity of the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program and is seeking long-term solutions to address the labour shortage.

The restaurant industry was devastated during the COVID pandemic with many workers leaving due to the uncertainty of steady employment. The use of the TFW program was necessary to allow the industry to reopen and recover following the lifting of public health restrictions. As a result, the percentage of the restaurant industrys workforce made up of TFWs increased from 1% pre-covid to 3% post-covid (made up primarily of cooks and supervisors). Restaurants Canada is expecting use of the program to continue to steadily decline over the next year.

Today, the foodservice industry has 73,000 job vacancies, and our focus now is on longer-term solutions, specifically providing opportunities for newcomers such as refugees and asylum seekers to fill the gaps permanently. There are currently more than 1 million of these individuals without work in Canada.

Our priority is not TFWs, but to provide unemployed newcomers, already in Canada, with employment opportunities in our industry, said Kelly Higginson, President and CEO of Restaurants Canada. These individuals are facing significant barriers to employment, and we have asked Minister Boissonnault to help facilitate matching and training for these individuals. This kind of program would represent a win-win-win scenario for governments, newcomers and the restaurant industry, said Higginson.

The restaurant industry has a long track record of supporting and providing opportunities for immigrants. The industry is the #1 employer of newcomers to Canada and 56% of restaurant owners are immigrants themselves.

There is a place for the TFW program, particularly in areas without the population to support services, such as seasonal tourist destinations. The governments attention needs to turn to supporting the more than 1 million newcomers already in Canada without a job, said Higginson. The restaurant industry is here to help Minister Boissonnault address this challenge.
This scholarship is made possible through generous support and close partnerships with area banks who have committed to supporting students in and out of the traditional classroom through lectures, site visits and panel discussions. They have also committed to providing internship opportunities, ensuring real-world experience throughout these students' time at UMKC.







Academy Bank

Arvest Foundation

Commerce Bank

Lead Bank

UMB Bank



Banking Leaders of Tomorrow is much more than a scholarship and we could not launch this program without great partners, said Jocelyn Evans, associate dean of the Bloch School. These banks are not only committing their time here on campus, but they are also providing important opportunities for our students to explore their future in banking and finance.



Scholarships will be awarded based upon a students essay describing their interest in a financial services career and how their experiences have prepared them to engage in banking relationships with individuals and businesses in low- and moderate-income areas in the Kansas City metropolitan area where many residents do not have traditional banking relationships.
Denver, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Down Syndrome Foundation (GLOBAL) is proud to support a new study published in Nature Communications by researchers at its partner and Affiliate, the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome (Crnic Institute) at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The breakthrough research, part of the ongoing Crnic Institute Human Trisome Project, identifies distinct molecular and immune subtypes across individuals with Down syndrome, offering new insights that could lead to personalized medicine approaches for the clinical management of this condition."

The Crnic Institute team analyzed the expression of genes encoded on chromosome 21, which is triplicated in those with Down syndrome, across hundreds of research participants in the Human Trisome Project, and identified unique patterns of gene overexpression among individuals. By employing advanced machine learning algorithms, researchers matched the variable chromosome 21 gene overexpression patterns to three distinct molecular and immune subgroups of individuals with Down syndrome. This is the first time that molecular profiles derived from blood samples are used to stratify the population with Down syndrome into distinct subsets.

There is remarkable variety in terms of developmental and clinical features in people with Down syndrome, and we strongly believe that this diversity is the key to making discoveries that will improve health outcomes and increase life expectancy in this deserving population, says Dr. Joaquin Espinosa, executive director of the Crnic Institute and director of the Human Trisome Project.

"These discoveries mark a transformative step toward developing better medical care for individuals with Down syndrome, says Crnic Institute Research Associate, Micah Donovan, PhD, one of the leading data analysts. This allows us to shift from a generalized strategy to a more tailored, precise therapies approach that addresses the unique manifestations of co-occurring conditions in Down syndrome."

The different molecular signatures in immune function, cellular signaling and metabolism provide basic and clinical researchers with a roadmap to pursue tailored diagnostics and therapeutic approaches in this population.

This study also highlights the power of advanced computational approaches for the analysis of large-scale datasets, explains Dr. Matthew Galbraith, PhD, director of the Data Sciences Program at the Crnic Institute and a senior author of the publication. Enabled by the datasets generated by the Human Trisome Project, it is now possible to envision a personalized medicine approach for the study of Down syndrome, similar to what has been achieved for other medical conditions.

The Crnic Institute researchers hope that these insights will lead to better clinical outcomes and improved quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome. This leading-edge work not only deepens our understanding of Down syndrome, but also exemplifies the potential for more precise diagnosis and treatment of complex medical conditions.

We are beyond grateful to the Crnic Institute for their game-changing research that is already translating into improved medical care and health outcomes for the amazing people with Down syndrome who we serve, says Michelle Sie Whitten, president & CEO of Global Down Syndrome Foundation, a partner and an Affiliate organization of the Crnic Institute. We are proud that GLOBALs advocacy work with Congress and with NIH has led to the establishment of the trans-NIH Down syndrome funding project, INCLUDE, that underwrites this and numerous other groundbreaking studies and clinical trials.

Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 and is associated with differences in neurodevelopment and a distinct clinical risk profile. Individuals with Down syndrome have a significantly decreased risk of some medical conditions, such as most solid cancers and hypertension, but they have a significantly higher risk of others, such as autoimmune disorders and Alzheimers disease. However, the variability in how these traits manifest in individuals with Down syndrome has long perplexed medical and research communities.

About Global Down Syndrome Foundation

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation (GLOBAL) is the largest non-profit in the U.S. working to save lives and dramatically improve health outcomes for people with Down syndrome. GLOBAL has donated more than $32 million to establish the first Down syndrome research institute supporting over 400 scientists and over 2,500 patients with Down syndrome from 33 states and 10 countries. Working closely with Congress and the National Institutes of Health, GLOBAL is the lead advocacy organization in the U.S. for Down syndrome research and care. GLOBAL has a membership of over 100 Down syndrome organizations worldwide, and is part of a network of Affiliates  the Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, the Sie Center for Down Syndrome, and the University of Colorado Alzheimers and Cognition Center  all on the Anschutz Medical Campus.

GLOBALs widely circulated medical publications include Global Medical Care Guidelines for Adults with Down Syndrome, Prenatal & Newborn Down Syndrome Information, and the award-winning magazine Down Syndrome World TM. GLOBAL also organizes the Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show, the largest Down syndrome fundraiser in the world. Visit globaldownsyndrome.org and follow us on social media Facebook, X and Instagram.

About the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome

The Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome is one of the only academic research centers fully devoted to improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through advanced biomedical research, spanning from basic science to translational and clinical investigations. Founded through the generous support and partnership of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, the Anna and John J. Sie Foundation, and the University of Colorado, the Crnic Institute supports a thriving Down syndrome research program involving over 50 research teams across four campuses on the Colorado Front Range. To learn more, visit www.crnicinstitute.org or follow us on Facebook and Twitter @CrnicInstitute.

About the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is a world-class medical destination at the forefront of transformative science, medicine, education and patient care. The campus encompasses the University of Colorado health professional schools, more than 60 centers and institutes, and two nationally ranked independent hospitals - UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado  which see more than 2 million adult and pediatric patient visits yearly. Innovative, interconnected and highly collaborative, the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus delivers life-changing treatments, patient care and professional training and conducts world-renowned research fueled by $705 million in research grants. For more information, visit www.cuanschutz.edu.

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PORT HUENEME, Calif., Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 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 Ports Shoreside Power system last December during the major storm that flooded Port Hueneme.



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. Heres how it works:

Capturing Emissions: STAXs system is ingeniously designed to envelop a vessels 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 doesnt 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 Huenemes commitment to sustainability.



Building on the Port of Huenemes 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!

Were 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 Ports response to finding new solutions in the maritime industry, said Kristin Decas, CEO and Port Director, Port of Hueneme.

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 isnt 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 worlds 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 pollutantsand 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 .

Media Contact

LaunchSquad for STAX

stax@launchsquad.com
West Hollywood, California, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Green Qween, the pioneering Queer cannabis dispensary, is set to make history by opening West Hollywood's first LGBTQ+ owned dispensary in the Rainbow District, the latest location for the Los Angeles-based business. This groundbreaking venture comes as Tristan Schukraft, tech entrepreneur, hospitality visionary and The CEO of Everything Gay acquires Zen Cannabis and invests in Green Qween. Teaming up with Green Qween co-founders Andres Rigal and Taylor Bazley, the trio will relocate and rebrand Zen Cannabis as Green Qween, providing a vibrant and inclusive cannabis retail experience.

A New Chapter in West Hollywoods Cannabis Scene

The team has submitted plans to the City of West Hollywood to transform the MISTR marketing office at the intersection of San Vicente and Santa Monica Boulevards into the new Green Qween dispensary. The third Green Qween location will offer a fresh and celebratory space for the LGBTQIA+ community, the first dispensary in the Rainbow District and the only completely LGBTQ+ owned cannabis license in West Hollywood.

Green Qweens expansion to West Hollywood represents a significant milestone in its mission to uplift marginalized communities. Utilizing Zen Cannabis Dispensarys license, the team will seamlessly transition and rebrand the space, offering a vibrant and welcoming environment that celebrates queer culture and identity year-round. This will be underscored with the installation of a towering Pride Flag atop the building in addition to a custom mural painted on the facade by acclaimed queer artist Patrick Church, further adding to the landmark appeal of the bustling rainbow district.

Quotes from the Founders

Tristan Schukraft expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, Investing in Green Qween and bringing it to West Hollywood and other queer villages aligns perfectly with our missions at MISTR and Tryst Hospitality. I want to build a cannabis brand for the gay community. Were excited to bring cannabis to the Rainbow District.

The Queer communities deserve representation in all aspects of life, including the cannabis industry, said Andres Rigal, co-founder of Green Qween. With this new location, we aim to create a safe and celebratory space for everyone, highlighting the diverse voices and products within our community.

Tristan, Andres and Taylor expect to expand Green Qweens presence to new markets and queer villages where MISTR and Tryst Hospitality operate.

Green Qween is a Queer and POC-led social equity licensed dispensary in Los Angeles that prioritizes LGBTQIA+ cannabis brands. The dispensary offers a premium selection of products in a space designed to be queer-all-year. Green Qween currently operates a dispensary in Downtown Los Angeles and will open a second location in Sherman Oaks 2024.

With a portfolio that includes iconic LGBTQ+ bars, restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs, alongside MISTRthe largest telehealth platform offering discreet, free online access to PrEP and long-term HIV care Tristan Schukraft truly embodies the title of "The CEO of Everything Gay."

Stay up to date on the latest Green Qween news by following @shopgreenqween or by visiting thegreenqween.com. Be your best self, even on your worst behavior with Tryst Hotels by following @trysthotels on social media or book your stay at trysthotels.com.

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About Tristan Schukraft

Known as The CEO of Everything Gay, Tristan Schukraft is a technology entrepreneur, turned hotelier and nightlife aficionado. An LA native, now residing in Puerto Rico, Tristans entrepreneurial journey began with the founding of ID90.COM, an e-ticketing platform for airline personnel. Following the success of ID90, Schukraft later went on to establish MISTR, the largest telemedicine platform dedicated to HIV prevention and long-term HIV care. His hospitality and nightlife portfolio began with the acquisitions of The Tryst beachfront hotel and Circo nightclub, both located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, later acquiring The Tryst in Puerto Vallarta and the iconic LGBTQ+ nightlife venue, The Abbey in West Hollywood, California, and The Blue Whale, The Pavilion Nightclub, The Canteen and more in The Pines on Fire Island and DS Tequila in Chicago.

About Green Qween

Green Qween is a Queer and POC-led social equity dispensary company in Los Angeles that sells premium cannabis products with a focus on supporting emerging LGBTQ+ brands in a CLIO Award-winning space thats queer-all-year. Green Qween honors queer history and identity in cannabis by forging opportunities today with the shops products, people and philanthropic efforts for the community. To date, Green Qween has collaborated with DTLA Proud, Tom of Finland, Big Freedia, The Hoxton Hotel, The Queer Mercado, Mars Wright, and more. Visit the flagship store at 1051 S Broadway in Los Angeles, and follow Green Qween on Instagram @shopgreenqween.

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VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BGX - Black Gold Exploration Corp. (CSE:BGX), (FRA:P30), (BGX, Black Gold Exploration or the Company), a dynamic player in the oil and gas exploration headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with assets in the prolific San Jorge Basin, Argentina, is pleased to announce that it has entered into an arms length share purchase agreement (the Agreement) to acquire (the Acquisition) 100% of the outstanding shares of Energy Holding Americas 1 Inc. (EHA1) in exchange for 480,000 common shares of the Company, having a deemed aggregate value of $2,400,000. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Black Gold Explorations expansion and diversification strategy.

EHA1 is a special purpose vehicle that holds a 30% ownership interest in (i) a group of oil, gas and mineral leases located in Vigo County, Indiana (the Leases), a region known for its rich existing hydrocarbon production and potential, as well as (ii) the seismic data and other geological data relating to the Leases. The remaining 70% interest is owned by LGX Energy Corp. (LGX), an oil and gas producer in Indiana, with focused exploration in various counties. Pursuant to a lease purchase and sale agreement and participation agreement between LGX and EHA1, EHA1 holds a perpetual option to participate in new development and production on the Leases through the contribution of 30% of the cost of such work.

Expanding Horizons: From Argentina to the United States

Black Gold Exploration has established a strong presence in Argentina, where it is actively engaged in the exploration for oil and gas resources. The acquisition in Vigo County, Indiana represents an opportunity to enter the US oil and gas market within the Illinois Basin, where 10 to 12 million barrels of oil is produced annually.1

Francisco Gulisano, CEO of Black Gold Exploration, stated, Vigo County offers promising opportunities for production, and we are excited to partner on this with LGX Energy Corp., given their teams proven track record of success.

Founded by Howard Crosby, formerly of oil and gas producer Cadence Resources, LGX is planning extensive drilling and development of oil resources in Indiana.

LGX CEO, Howard Crosby, stated: With our strong base of drilling prospects, experience with 3D seismic, and proven track record for acquiring oil and gas leases, we believe that the partnership with BGX will position both companies to create value in Indiana.

Commitment to Responsible Exploration and Production

Black Gold Exploration remains dedicated to conducting its operations with the highest standards of environmental responsibility and community engagement. The Company will continue to prioritize sustainable practices and intends to collaborate with local stakeholders to ensure the responsible development of resources in Vigo County.

Looking Ahead

With this strategic acquisition, Black Gold Exploration is poised to enhance its production capabilities and strengthen its position in the global oil and gas industry. The Company looks forward to leveraging its technical expertise and innovative approach to unlock the full potential of its new assets in Vigo County, alongside its partner LGX.

Completion of the Acquisition is subject to customary conditions precedent including approval from the Canadian Securities Exchange, completion of an independent valuation respecting EHA1, resignations and releases from certain of EHA1s leadership and other customary closing conditions for a transaction of this nature.

On behalf of the Company,

Francisco Gulisano

236-266-5174

Chief Executive Officer

About BGX

BGX  Black Gold Exploration Corp. (CSE: BGX) is an oil and gas exploration company dedicated to creating shareholder value through the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and gas projects. It is currently developing the El Carmen Project located in the Chubut Province of Argentina with proximity to existing and functioning pipelines in a well-established oil production area. For more information visit https://www.bgxcorp.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about managements view of future events, expectations, plans, and prospects that constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward- looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to statements respecting: (i) the Acquisition; (ii) satisfaction of the conditions precedent for closing of the Acquisition; (iii) further development and production at the Leases; (iv) the Companys partnership with LGX; (v) development potential at the Leases; (vi) undiscovered, recoverable oil and gas estimates in the Illinois basin; (vii) LGXs business plans; (viii) the Companys commitment to sustainable practices and collaboration with local stakeholders; (ix) the Companys plan to enhance its production capabilities and strengthen its position in the global oil and gas industry; and (x) the Company leveraging its technical expertise and innovative approach to unlock the full potential of its new assets in Vigo County. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statement will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Company 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. For a comprehensive overview of all risks that may impact the Company, please see the Companys continuous disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+.

Neither the CSE nor the CSEs Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accept responsibility for the accuracy of this release.



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1 https://www.usgs.gov/publications/new-albany-shale-illinois-emerging-play-or-prolific-source
Columbus, OH, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On July 23, 2024 Brian Brouse, Director of Canada for the Tim Lamb Group, the largest auto dealership sales and acquisitions firm in North America, brokered the sale of Kia Cold Lake in Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada to Kross Auto Group. Kia Cold Lake, located at 3832 50 St., Cold Lake, AB T9M 1S6, Canada will keep its name as the new owners join the Cold Lake community.

Brouse worked closely with Darren Bosch, Dealer Principal and Owner and Spencer Ferguson, General Manager and Partner of Kia Cold Lake to help organize and facilitate the sale of the dealership. This deal marks the third transaction Brouse and Bosch have collaborated on. I want to thank Darren and Spencer for continuing our long-standing relationship and trusting me with their first dealership sale, stated Brian Brouse. Darren Bosch currently owns Homefield Ford in Raymond, Alberta and is looking to focus his efforts closer to Southern Alberta where his Ford dealership is located.

The 8,040 square foot space at Kia Cold Lake is located on 1.7 acres of land and includes a full-service center. Kia Cold Lake is the only import dealership in Cold Lake, providing additional options for local buyers. The staff at Kia Cold Lake, with all 14 team members staying on, took great pride in community engagement and initiatives, which became a fundamental part of the dealerships identity and one of the key reasons for choosing Kross Group to sell to.

When we decided to sell Kia Cold Lake, we wanted to find a dealer who would focus on impacting the community just as much as our team did, and I believe we found that with Kross Group, stated Darren Bosch, Dealer Principal and Owner. We were wholeheartedly committed to being enthusiastic participants in the growth and vitality of this remarkable town and we have the utmost trust that our team, under the guidance of Kevin Robertson and his team, will continue to do the same.

The family owned Kross Auto Group, headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada currently owns dealerships in Edmonton and Calgary Alberta, Canada. I want to wish the Kross Group the best of luck as they expand their group with their newest location, stated Brouse.

For more information on Tim Lamb Group visit, https://timlambgroup.com/

About Tim Lamb Group

Since 2006, Tim Lamb Group has been the number one choice for dealers looking to sell, or purchase, a new vehicle dealership. Fifteen regional directors manage billions of dollars per year in transactions for multiple dealer operators in every part of the United States and Canada. The Group has leveraged their factory management experience and retail dealership background to become the largest auto dealership sales and acquisitions firm in North America. For more information and dealerships for sale, visit www.timlambgroup.com.

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Doris Marie Brougham, founder of the Overseas Radio & Television (ORTV) / Studio Classroom and an American missionary, passed away at Mackay Memorial Hospital in Tamsui, Taiwan, on August 6 at the age of 98.



The Studio Classroom website announced that this is Brougham's "final dismissal," and she specifically requested in her will: "Donate everything."



In 1962, Doris Brougham founded the Studio Classroom, and in 1963, she established the Heavenly Melody Choir. She dedicated her life to teaching English and spreading the Gospel through music. The ORTV/Studio Classroom funeral committee will soon decide on the details of the "Doris Brougham Memorial Concert" and stated that the concert will follow her wishes. She always enjoyed lively events and wanted people to attend her concert with joy, knowing she is now in heaven with Jesus and her family.



Biography of Doris Brougham



Arriving in China Amidst War



Born in Seattle, USA, in 1926, Doris Brougham decided to become a missionary to China at the age of 12. She gave up a scholarship to the New York School of Music, left her parents and hometown, sacrificed her love life, a high-paying job, and a comfortable lifestyle, risking her own safety. In 1948, during the height of the Chinese Civil War, she arrived in Shanghai and later moved to Taiwan. At just 22 years old, she continued to spread the Gospel even while fleeing the war.



Serving God throughout her life through English education and Gospel music ministry



After arriving in Taiwan in 1951, she chose to serve the indigenous people in Hualien, where missionaries were urgently needed. She settled in Meilun, Hualien, taught music at Yu-Shan Theological College, founded a small church, and started a Sunday school with only nine children. Doris learned basic indigenous languages to connect with the locals, who gave her the name Libeckdoman, meaning "lily of the valley." Riding her bicycle around Hualien, she discovered that every household had a radio, which inspired her to use media for evangelism. She also saw the need for English education in Taiwan, which struggled to communicate with international personnel post-World War II. This motivated her to promote English education to help Taiwan connect with the world.



Doris Brougham's English education programs were extensive. She launched various magazines like "Studio Classroom," "Let's Talk in English," and "Studio Classroom" for different English proficiency levels, becoming essential resources for English learners in the Chinese-speaking world. She also adapted to technological advancements with radio, television, internet, and digital media, earning multiple Golden Bell Awards from the Ministry of Culture.



In 1963, she founded the Heavenly Melody Choir, the first Christian music group in Taiwan, which spread the Gospel across 36 countries on five continents. Doris connected not only the education, music, and church communities but also linked Taiwan with the world. She always humbly stated that she was simply responding to God's call. She said, "Without love, prestigious degrees and teaching methods are in vain."


I can't imagine many of you have been to the New Hampshire House of Representatives. But I can help visualize it for you: Just close your eyes and think of an old public high school auditorium.You know, a big room with row upon row of somewhat worn leather- cushioned seats and a podium at the front. A room that looks like it's been through about 50 years' worth of assemblies, PTA meetings and performances of "Our Town."There's a reason why New Hampshire's chamber is so big: The House has 400 members, more than any state legislative body in the country. The chamber has to be the size of a an opera house just to get all of them seated.For a long time, some people have thought this a less-than-ideal environment for conducting the deliberations of the democratic process. Thirty years ago, the Citizens' Conference on State Legislatures portrayed the New Hampshire House as a place where 15 people made all the decisions, and if you were among the other 385, you just watched, "part of an onlooking audience rather than a full- fledged member." The citizens' group raised the very legitimate question of why New Hampshire, which then had about 700,000 people, was supporting a legislative body the size of a small battalion, while California, with nearly 20 million people, was getting by with an Assembly of 80.It's still a good question. As you probably guessed, the New Hampshire House is as big and unwieldy today as it was in 1971. Every once in a while, something happens to suggest this might not be entirely harmless. Last November, among the 400 candidates selected to sit in the House of Representatives, voters chose a convicted forger and a man who had urged violence against police.State officials who were asked about this responded by saying roughly the same thing: Who can keep track of that many candidates? "It is difficult, if not impossible," admitted Kathy Sullivan, the Democratic Party chair.On the other hand, Sullivan said, that's no reason to tamper with tradition by reducing the size of the House. "I have a great fondness for our legislature," she declared. "I like the idea that so many people have an opportunity to serve." The voters seem to agree with her. For all the jokes about New Hampshire's overstuffed House, no serious moves to trim it have been made.And in the end, who's to say New Hampshire is wrong? When it comes to the size of legislatures, beauty--and efficiency--are very much in the eye of the beholder. A small state with a 400-member House of Representatives may seem a little wacky, but I can't prove that it leads to inferior public policy, and neither can anybody else.Back in the 1970s, the Citizens' Conference recommended that the ideal size for the lower house of a bicameral state legislature was 100 to 130, and that the two chambers together should have no more than 150. But only a small number of states fell within that relatively narrow range at that time, and only a dozen do now.The truth is that there will never be consensus on how many legislators it takes to change a law. James Madison realized that when he wrote the U.S. Constitution. "No political problem is less susceptible of a precise solution," he wrote in the Federalist No. 55, "than that which relates to the number most convenient for a representative legislature; nor is there any point on which the policy of the several states is more at variance."Madison thought there was such a thing as a dangerously small legislative body; he also thought there could be a dangerously big one. "Sixty or 70 men may be more properly trusted with a given degree of power than six or seven," he reasoned. "But it does not follow that six or seven hundred would be a proportionally better depositary... the number ought at most to be kept within a certain limit, in order to avoid the confusion and intemperance of a multitude."More recent critics have made a slightly different version of this point. They have argued that big legislatures are unwise not because of any temptation to mob rule, but because they encourage wasteful log-rolling and exorbitant demands by too many individual members from too many districts.Academics have tried to study this issue empirically. Last year, two professors at the University of Southern California, Thomas Gilligan and John Matsusaka, published a paper in which they concluded that bigger legislative bodies, at least bigger Senate chambers, do throw more dollars around. "The more seats in the upper House of the legislature," they wrote, "the more the government spends and the more revenue it collects... A one-seat increase in the upper house is associated with a 0.38 increase in total spending."This is interesting. If you were to apply it to New Hampshire, the model you presumably would get is a cheapskate Senate (the fourth- smallest in the country) struggling mightily to rein in the wasteful log-rolling tendencies of the enormous House. The last time I looked, however, both chambers in the Granite State seemed pretty parsimonious to me. Both are reluctant to endorse any new form of taxation, despite being mandated by a court to raise hundreds of millions of dollars in new funds for education. I'm not sure size is the crucial variable here.Every once in a while, however, a state does decide that not having quite so many legislators would be in the public interest. Seven years ago, the voters of Rhode Island decided to shrink the size of both their House and Senate. Effective in 2003, the House will go from 100 members down to 75, and the Senate from 50 to 38. The voters did this in a mood of anger at the entire institution of state government, having in the previous decade witnessed a bank scandal, a pension scandal, the indictment of a governor and the forced resignation of two chief justices.It's not that the current Rhode Island legislature is abnormally large. It actually fits within the old Citizens' Conference guidelines. On the other hand, Rhode Island is small in population and tiny in geography. The House districts include fewer than 10,000 people and cover an average of 8 square miles. If these districts were the same physical size as the national average, the Rhode Island legislature would have only three people in it--a little small even by Madison's standards.But Rhode Island's decision has nothing to do with Madisonian political theory; it has everything to do with a visceral sense that fewer people means less mischief. "The bloated size of the assembly," an editorial in the Providence Journal proclaimed in 1999, "has not meant that the Ocean State's legislators are `closer to the people'... the effect has been to make Rhode Island legislatures too often the tribunes of small and remarkably selfish interest groups."A letter-writer to the Journal put it a little more succinctly. "Fewer legislators," he declared, "means fewer brothers-in-law that have to be found state jobs." An effort to cancel the upcoming downsizing failed within the legislature itself two years ago.While Rhode Island was debating the effects of its impending shrinkage, Nevada was fighting over the opposite idea: making its legislature bigger. In this case, the argument is unrelated to efficiency. It's related to demographics.Actually, it's pretty simple. The southern part of the state, around Las Vegas, has been growing exponentially. The north is not keeping up. As a result, Las Vegas and surrounding Clark County are now entitled on the basis of population to 70 percent of the legislative seats.There's nothing the northerners can do about that--districts have to be drawn on the basis of population equality. But there's no law saying the legislature can't get larger. That way, rural areas can have more representation, even if their ultimate share of political power is shrinking. Rural legislators can be spared the burdens of representing constituencies that stretch for 300 miles.This issue all but shut out other topics during the state legislative session this spring. The southern contingent wasn't particularly accommodating. "I don't think we need to grow the size of government," said the Las Vegas-based Senate Democratic leader, Dina Titus. "The public has said the legislature should do its business in less time and spend less money."The debate raged on into June and prevented the members from finishing their business by the date of scheduled adjournment. In the end, a special session voted to leave the size of the legislature as it was, pacifying the northerners with a deal on congressional redistricting.Regardless of Nevada's decision, growing a legislature is nearly always politically easier than shrinking one. Between 1902 and 1990, 50 state legislative chambers in this country were enlarged by statute or referendum. Only 11 were made smaller.And other than the Rhode Island downsizing--done by the electorate, not the members--no state has gone for shrinkage in recent years. Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura has spent much of his term arguing that the current 201-member legislature should be pared down to a one- chamber body with just 135 seats. But that proposal has gone nowhere.It's significant, however, that this was a gubernatorial initiative. Political executives at all levels who have to wrestle with big legislatures emerge convinced that they are just too much to handle.This includes, by the way, Bill Clinton. In May 1998, as a Republican Congress pursued him for his indiscretions with Monica Lewinsky, Clinton paid a visit to Delaware and couldn't help remarking on the cozy friendliness of its 41-seat House and 21-seat Senate, the third- smallest combined total in the country. "I like the feel of your legislature," Clinton told the members. "I like the size of your legislature. I wonder if it would take a constitutional amendment to reduce Congress to this size. It's a wonderful idea."But not everybody sees Delaware as Clinton does. A few weeks ago, the leadership of the state House introduced a bill to increase the size of the chamber by four seats. A bigger legislature, Speaker Terry Spence said, "is in the best interest of the constituents."
BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- A think tank report on the achievements and global contributions of China's reform endeavors in the new era was unveiled at a symposium held Tuesday in Beijing. Titled "Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization: Major Achievements and Global Contributions," the report was jointly issued in Chinese and English by the think tanks under the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Xinhua News Agency. The report systematically summarizes the major achievements, basic principles and global contributions of the CPC's efforts in deepening reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization in the new era. Addressing the event, Qu Qingshan, president of the Institute of Party History and Literature of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the National High-Level Think Tank Council of the institute, said that Chinese modernization is constantly advancing in the reform and opening up, and will surely open up broad prospects in the reform and opening up. He said that building a high-standard socialist market economy and promoting high-quality economic development are essential to further deepening reform comprehensively. He also underscored the importance of enhancing capacity for opening up while expanding cooperation with other countries. Fu Hua, president of Xinhua News Agency and also chairman of the academic committee of Xinhua Institute, a high-end think tank of Xinhua News Agency, said the agency will leverage its unique advantages as both a state news agency and a national high-level think tank. Fu pledged efforts to collaborate with domestic and international media outlets and think tanks to produce more high-quality news reports and research findings. The opening of the symposium was presided over by Lyu Yansong, editor-in-chief of Xinhua News Agency and vice chairman of the academic committee of Xinhua Institute. The symposium, themed on understanding the third plenum of the 20th CPC Central Committee, was attended by more than 200 diplomats, think tank experts and journalists from over 60 countries for exchanges and discussions. At the seminar, participants engaged in discussions on multiple topics, including advancing Chinese modernization by comprehensively deepening reform, developing new quality productive forces, and promoting high-standard opening-up. Experts have noted that China is currently in, and will remain in a crucial period of building itself into a stronger country and rejuvenating the Chinese nation on all fronts by pursuing Chinese modernization. Against this backdrop, Fu noted that the plenum has clarified the key tasks of advancing Chinese modernization in the immediate future, and will most certainly be the prelude of great changes of landmark significance. The plenum has provided strategic guidance for the planning of China's cause of reform and opening-up in the new era. In addition, it has also offered explicable precedence for other developing countries to independently blaze a path of development and realize modernization, said Fu. "The plenum marks the beginning of a new phase of China's reform," said Zhang Shiyi, a researcher with the Institute of Party History and Literature of the CPC Central Committee. He added that the CPC Central Committee has drawn the roadmap of completing all reform tasks by 2029, but the influence of these reforms will go beyond that point. Emphasizing the importance of developing new quality productive forces, Huang Hanquan, head of the Chinese Academy of Macroeconomic Research, said that such practice is a new driving force for China's high-quality economic development. He added that by developing new quality productive forces, China, the world's second-largest economy, will bring about new demand and supply, provide other countries and international enterprises with greater market and investment opportunities, and contribute to world economic growth. Openness is featured heavily in the process of Chinese modernization. Aldonov Frankeko Alvarez, ambassador of El Salvador to China, was impressed by this prominent feature. "Adhering to the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity, China has proven to the world with its own experience that adhering to the path of socialist development with Chinese characteristics not only benefits the Chinese people, but also sets an example of peace, friendship, development and unity for more countries," he said.
New York subscribers got exclusive early access to this story in Eating New York, a newsletter featuring food news and advice straight from our critics mouths. Sign up here to get it in your inbox. Photo: Courtesy of La Taq

For 21 years, La Taqueria was a Park Slope staple. It was, according to reports and local legend, the neighborhoods first taqueria; at least, its the first one that people remember really liking. Owner Martin Medina  who joined the long list of Californians seduced by New York, only to find the Mexican food back then disappointing  infused the place with his love of East L.A., and in doing so helped to show Brooklynites what they were missing. La Taqueria brought Cal-Mex to brownstone Brooklyn just as the immigration wave from Puebla that would further transform the citys food scene was starting to take hold. When La Taqueria closed in 2011, Patch called it a day of mourning for Park Slope. But in late July, Medina came back and reopened his shop as La Taq.

The store has moved (only slightly), but the spirit and the menu are the same. Citrusy carne asada remains a specialty. Al pastor spins on a trompo near the kitchens entrance. The Outrageous California burrito (which comes with two meats, rice, beans, pico de gallo, cheese, lettuce, and sour cream) is absolutely huge, and something of a steal at $19. Rachels Taco is a semi-fried shell with ground beef and the works. San Diego fries come with chopped carne asada, sour cream, pico de gallo, and guacamole. One thing that Medina is excited about are the carnitas Michoacan, which hes making in a copper cazo with pork shoulder and butt. They are crispier than some carnitas around town, but not fried super hard. Were going to be a part of carnitas taking off, he says. I couldnt serve this 25 years ago. People here went, Oh, God, lard. You know what I mean?

New Yorks Mexican-food scene has come a long way, and then some, since La Taqueria opened in 1989. Medina had met a girl while working as a server on a cruise ship. He grew up in the San Joaquin Valley; she was from Cobble Hill. He followed her to Brooklyn. Park Slope at that time was a lot of things, but it wasnt a hive of taqueros. I was hungry for my own food, Medina says. And thats when I found Harrys.

Located in the East Village, Harrys was one of a couple burrito shops launched by Mark Merker in the late 80s, the other being Bennys in the East Village. (Not to be confused with another, unrelated Bennys Burritos in the West Village.) Burrito fever was starting to take hold in the city, but Medina knew he could do better: I thought, What the fuck? Ive got to do this because this is what I grew up on.

In 1989, he launched La Taqueria as a pushcart outside 175 Remsen Street in Brooklyn Heights. The building, he figured, was a good mark because of all the lawyers who worked there. I know these guys have traveled back and forth, he says. I wasnt going to Bensonhurst and try and do this, thats for sure.

One of those lawyers was Sandra Schpoont, who at the time worked at the Legal Aid Society. She had done her internships in San Francisco, and still remembers the relief she had when she walked outside and saw Medinas cart: Its hard to believe now, but you could not find a burrito in New York City. When I walked out of the building and saw the cart, I was like, Oh my God, California burritos. Within a year and half of opening his cart, Medina had opened three storefronts, including La Taqueria at 70 Seventh Avenue. (The first was in Cobble Hill, but by 1992 it was under different management.) It was close enough to Schpoonts apartment that her family would order every Wednesday.

A burrito from La Taq. Photo: Courtesy of La Taq

By the time the citys Chipotle era fully took hold last decade, Medina would close his three shops  including Rachels Taquerias and Varrio 408  and figured he was done with restaurants. But, a few years later, he was riding his Vespa when he ran into an old friend, Louis Barricelli of Cousin Johns Cafe & Bakery, another Park Slope staple. There that day, too, was Cousin Johns general manager Edgar Loria, who grew up eating at Medinas taquerias. Louis and Medina had known each from years of running their businesses on the same block, and Barricelli said he was moving the bakery to the corner, freeing up the space at 72 Seventh Avenue. I asked him, Well, what are you going to do with this spot? and we both laughed, Medina says. We knew that we were going to put this together here.

Medina says hes brought back nine of his old employees, including Maria (who makes the tortillas up front, by the window) and Sylevester. I cant do it without them, he explains. The other people he says he cant do this without are the Cousin Johns crew. Luiss nephew, Frank Barricelli, runs social media and helps handle the business side. Loria also helps manage the business. As Medina puts it, He and I think a lot alike, even though we are two different parts of the brain. He understands parts that I dont understand at all  and I dont want to.

One of those people who has been anticipating La Taqs return is Eddie Caceres, who worked for Medina for eight years and popped in last Friday. The place looks so good, man. I couldnt even believe, he told Medina on his visit. Id been dying to come here. I figured youd be here. I went by your house and I saw the Vespa wasnt there.

Inside, the shop looks a lot like it used to. The menu on the wall dates back to 1990; a friend had kept it in his apartment since 2011. There is, literally, a piece of the wall from the original location next door, covered in faded sticks and decals for bands (the Grateful Dead, Morex Optimo), STP motor oil, Haight-Ashbury, and more. Glittery red chairs came from Indiana, and the red neon La Taq sign lights up the tin ceiling.

Hes still ironing out the kinks that come with any new business  Were making sure that we can make a damn good burrito, he offers  but that hasnt stopped old fans like Schpoont from stopping in. My daughter lives in San Francisco and shes coming to Brooklyn next week, she says. And she wrote to me that she cant wait to go to La Taq. I was joking with her that she has great burritos out there, but no.
The wired charging war has definitely subsided recently, but it hasn't outright stopped. According to a new rumor out of China, Realme is getting ready to introduce its very own 300W wired charging solution for smartphones.

We say "its very own" because this won't be the first 300W system shown by a Chinese device maker - in fact, Redmi announced its take on the matter all the way back in February of 2023.

When that came around, it was claimed it would fill up a 4,100 mAh battery from zero to full in under five minutes. More than a year has passed since that presentation and there has so far been no Redmi phone to actually employ this 300W charging tech.

We wouldn't be surprised if Realme's announcement will also be of the "technology showcase" variety, without any actual devices using it for a while. Then again, Realme has so far come closest to 300W with its 240W wired charging most recently featured in the GT5 and GT Neo 5 handsets.

According to the same source, Realme's upcoming GT7 Pro will feature an IP69 rating for dust and water resistance, as well as an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.

Source (in Chinese)
A 54-year-old man with a history of family violence and assault arrests has been accused of beating, torturing and raping a woman while holding her against her will for three days in June.

A woman told police Eugene Wayne Tudela Huffman hit her in the head with a belt buckle, pulled out her front tooth with pliers and raped her twice with a toilet plunger, according to a magistrates complaint filed in Superior Court.

Huffman was charged Wednesday with first-degree criminal sexual assault as a first-degree felony and aggravated assault, family violence and felonious restraint as third-degree felonies.

On June 5, police were called to Guam Regional Medical City, where a woman was being treated after being badly beaten and possibly sexually assaulted, according to the complaint.

The woman said she was supposed to call Huffman to pick her up after she was discharged from Guam Memorial Hospital June 1, but she couldnt reach him. Instead, a friend picked her up.

She went to Huffmans home the next day. Police stated in court documents that the woman had difficulty recalling certain dates and events, but she recounted the beatings and assaults.

Police noted she had swelling and bruising on her face, a cut on her forehead, bruising on her legs, a 2-inch cut on the top of her head, bite marks on her neck, bruising on her shoulder, cuts on her forearm and bruising on her arm.

On Tuesday, police were called to Huffmans residence for an unrelated matter, and while they were there, they informed him that he was a suspect in the June case. When they told him about the accusations, he said, Oh, I know about that already, and when they asked him what happened, he said, I beat her up, according to the complaint.

He denied raping the woman with a plunger, but told police he caused her other injuries, the complaint stated.

After he told police nothing else happened, he started to walk into his residence, and police told him he was under arrest. He pulled away from them, ran into the house, got into a combative stance and was eventually subdued with the use of a Taser, according to the complaint.

Huffman has nine previous arrests, with all but one  a DUI  involving assault, family violence or both. He has a previous conviction for family violence, violation of a court order and criminal mischief, according to court documents.

If found guilty in the current case, he could face 35 years in prison. He is being held on $50,000 cash bail.
Ron McNinch is a longstanding member of the Guam community and frequently gives his opinion on a wide range of topics.
Eunice, right, helps her children, Elvis, left, and Annet, center, with their homework in Acanpii B village, Dokolo District. Photo by Russell Powell/Heifer International.

As the sun filters through the canopy overhead, it casts a gentle glow on Eunice Angwech and her children as they huddle together with a schoolbook in hand.

In this setting, Eunice's determination to provide a better life through education is evident, highlighting the path she has paved with hard work and dedication.

Once her children settle into their studies, the 35-year-old mother of four steps into her field in Acanpii B village, Dokolo District of Northern Uganda, to harvest groundnuts.

She also cultivates cassava and maize, raises goats and chickens, and tends to her animals with the same meticulous care that has transformed her family's life.

Rural life in Dokolo District means most people rely on subsistence farming, and women play key roles in household and agricultural duties. Children often help with farming tasks as well, which makes it difficult for families to focus on providing quality education.

The added burden of school fees and associated costs further hinders many parents' ability to send their children to school, trapping families in poverty and making education a distant dream.

Overcoming Adversity

Eunice grew up on a farm in Otuke District, but her childhood was marred by conflict. When cattle thieves attacked their village, Eunice and her family fled to the city of Lira, leaving their home and way of life behind.

I was very scared because they [were] shooting guns, she recalled. Life in the city was cramped and difficult, far from the open fields she loved.

Now, back in the countryside, Eunice is focused on providing a better life for her children  one filled with knowledge and opportunity.

Eunice works in a field of groundnuts in Acanpii B village, Dokolo District. Photo by Russell Powell/Heifer International.

Through Heifer Internationals Learn for Agribusiness project, which ran from 2018 to 2021, Eunice gained sustainable farming practices, essential supplies, financial literacy and business skills that helped her manage her farm more efficiently.

For example, she learned how to use high-quality seeds and prepare her land correctly for optimal crop growth. Heifer provided her with supplies, including 55 kilograms, 121 pounds, of groundnut seeds and 30 kilograms, 66 pounds, of soybean seeds. These seeds grow faster and are more resilient than traditional varieties. She also received a tarp to sort the nuts from the branches and leaves.

When I do it once, I get low production. But now whenever I do it twice, production increases, she explained, referring to the practice of weeding and plowing that she learned through the project.

Beyond farming techniques, Eunice gained invaluable knowledge in financial literacy and budgeting. This instruction enabled her and her family to plan their finances strategically and ensure their increased income was utilized wisely to benefit their future.

Before, we didn't do that much; we just sold and then just go and use the money on what we wanted, she said. But now, after the training, we all agree, and whenever we have income, were able to plan together.

Nurturing Future Leaders

Eunice's commitment and the guidance she received have paid off. Her agricultural income has soared to around 1 million Ugandan shillings, or approximately $270, a season, allowing her to invest in her childrens education. With her increased income, she has also bought a motorcycle, which provides more efficient transportation for her farming activities and access to markets.

Eunice and her children stand with the family's motorcycle in front of their home in Acanpii B village, Dokolo District. Photo by Russell Powell/Heifer International.

Annet, 15, her eldest daughter, dreams of working in the medical field.

I want to be a doctor because I know science very well, Annet said confidently.

The familys improved financial situation has also enriched their quality of life. Eunice is constructing a four-room house with a sheet metal roof and proper insulation. Its a significant upgrade from their previous mud-walled home.

Before, we would eat meat maybe two times  a year, but these days, we spend like one or two weeks, and then we eat meat, Eunice noted.

Eunices story is also one of community support. She actively participates in the Heifer-established Dokolo Young Oilseed Farmers Cooperative, which offers better prices for her produce than local intermediaries.

Additionally, she embraces the principle of Passing on the Gift, sharing her learnings, seeds and farming techniques with others in need.

Whenever you have something and a friend doesn't have this good thing, you give that person what you have and train the person how to use it, she said.

Eunice helps her daughter Annet, left, with her homework. Photo by Russell Powell/Heifer International.

By transforming her own life and the lives of those around her, Eunice is opening new pathways to knowledge.

Not only is she actively imparting skills and wisdom within her community through her teachings, but she is also affirming that education is within reach for her children so they can aspire to lead lives of economic stability and new possibilities.
Pop-ups, registration forms, newsletter calls - the web is full of disruptions. A surprisingly announced Apple function should soon provide a remedy. The manufacturer is integrating what is known as "Distraction Control" into Safari 18  part of iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS 15 Sequoia. Users are given the option to simply hide annoying content on a website - permanently. This is done by simply clicking or tapping on the distracting elements.

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As examples of things that can be hidden in this way, Apple cited login forms or all-too-common pop-ups in online stores that entice users with discounts for newsletter subscriptions. The unpopular cookie banners and GDPR consents should also be easy to suppress.

Apple: function is not an ad blocker

The function will be prominently integrated into the menu bar, as the company announced on Monday. Hidden web content can then be shown again at any time. Hiding is done manually by the user and must be done individually on each website. It also does not work across all devices: the settings for hidden content are not synchronized between iPhone and Mac, for example.

Distraction Control can be tested with fresh beta versions of iOS 18 & Co. Safari 18 is expected to be released to the public as an update in September.

During the announcement, Apple repeatedly emphasized that the feature was neither designed as an ad blocker nor capable of reliably removing advertising banners: Distraction Control cannot permanently remove constantly changing elements of a website  including advertising banners.

Latecomer with explosive power

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The function had already caused a stir in the spring, although the innovation, which was known as "Web Eraser" at the time, was just a rumor. French and British media associations had positioned themselves against its introduction: It was a threat to ad-financed content and therefore also to publishers and journalists. The weakening of the business model endangered high-quality information and thus ultimately pluralism and democracy, wrote associations from the neighboring countries  the EU Commission was also informed.

Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden

(lbe)
Logitech's new boss Hanneke Faber wants to raise the average price people spend on a PC mouse in the long term. She said this in an interview with The Verge and shared a bit of the inside story. An employee had shown her an "eternal mouse" that she obviously liked:

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"Im very intrigued. The other day, in Ireland, in our innovation center there, one of our team members showed me a forever mouse with the comparison to a watch. This is a nice watch, not a super expensive watch, but Im not planning to throw that watch away ever. So why would I be throwing my mouse or my keyboard away if its a fantastic-quality, well-designed, software-enabled mouse. The forever mouse is one of the things that wed like to get to."

[...]

"It was a little heavier, it had great software and services that youd constantly update, and it was beautiful. So I dont think were necessarily super far away from that."

[...]

"Imagine its like your Rolex. Youre going to really love that."

Faber argued the whole thing under the guise of sustainability. After all, fewer mice would be thrown away, which would benefit the environment. Defects and new technology such as sensors are left out of the equation.

Denial

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However, the outrage over PC peripherals for which you may have to pay a monthly subscription was huge. There were thousands of comments on the interview excerpt on Reddit alone.

Read also Leichte Gamingmause von 12 bis 170 Euro im Test c't Magazin

Logitech then rowed back. In an official statement, which is also available to heise online, the manufacturer writes

"There are no plans for a subscription mouse. The 'Forever Mouse' mentioned is not an actual product, but merely an insight into provocative internal thoughts on future possibilities for more sustainable consumer electronics."

Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmmung wird hier ein externer Preisvergleich (heise Preisvergleich) geladen. Preisvergleiche immer laden Preisvergleich jetzt laden

(mma)
The riots were kindled by a stabbing that left three school-aged girls dead and two adults wounded during a dance class in Southport in Merseyside, England, on 29 July. The tragedy was followed by rumours, speculation and misinformation on social media about the identity of the perpetrator, including the false rumour that that he was an asylum-seeking Muslim.

THE FAR-RIGHT RIOTS in the UK have provoked comments from lawmakers also in Finland.

The perpetrator has been identified as a 17-year-old boy from Banks, a coastal village just outside Southport. He has no known links to Islam and was born in Cardiff, Wales, to parents from Rwanda.

The far-right pounced to foment riots that have since led to over 400 arrests, scores of injured police officers and damage to cars, homes and shops in dozens of towns and cities across England and Northern Ireland, according to the BBC.

At least 30 additional gatherings are believed to be planned for Wednesday.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged that anyone taking part in the unrest will feel the full force of the law. He has described the riots as organised, violent thuggery that has no place on our streets or online.

Martin Paasi, a first-term Member of Finnish Parliament for the National Coalition, on Monday stated to Helsingin Sanomat that the riots were caused by one-sided reporting in the UK.

The background of the perpetrator were kept secret until social media was dizzy with speculation, meaning you had to say something to quell the wildest rumours. I have a strong feeling that there was an attempt to hide something so that the situation wouldnt get worse, he commented.

Undergirding this is a personal major concern that, as the traditional quality media is increasingly like social media  meaning stories are coloured to align with the world views of journalists  it contributes to decreasing trust in the traditional media and increasing polarisation across the world.

Paasi has also taken issue with an analysis made at the editorial desk of Ilta-Sanomat.

The far-right harnessed feelings of fear, anger and anxiety as a tool for its anti-immigration policy soon after the stabbing. Disinformation about the background of the perpetrator, meaning wrong and misleading information, was spread for this purpose. The lies spread quickly, and their consequences are ugly, the editorial team wrote on Sunday, 4 August.

Paasi, though, viewed that no conspiracy theories are necessary when a teenager of an immigrant background murders young children and the woke establishment tries to turn it into something else.

Just like you, Ilta-Sanomat, are doing in your editorial, he commented on X.

Onni Rostila, a first-term Member of Finnish Parliament for the Finns Party, struck a similar tone in a column published in Suomen Uutiset, the official mouthpiece of the populist right-wing party. He accused the media of selective colour-blindness and racism against white people, arguing that its sole purpose is to steer the public into responsible thinking.

The worst thing that you can do to relationships within a population is to build double standards on ideological grounds and cry far right at the justified anger of people, he wrote.

The column was shared on X by Minister of Finance Riikka Purra (PS).

Horrible events happen all over the world, and the reactions are different depending on the circumstance, Purra stated to Helsingin Sanomat on Monday. Its definitely ill-advised to belittle or search for various explanations that seek to belittle these events.

She also dismissed the concern that some have jumped to conclusions by discussing the effects of immigration in the context of the attack.

When I talk about the problems of immigration, I also talk about the second generation [of immigrants], who are still overrepresented both in terms of crime and income transfers in Finland, for example. You have to be able to talk about the problems of immigration and recognise that they move voters and citizens, she argued.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) on Tuesday told YLE that he does not believe the traditional media kept any details of the attack a secret.

There are problems associated with integration on all sides, and if you dont integrate, if you dont find your place in society, it often leads to exclusion or trouble. But I wouldnt draw that conclusion in this case, he said.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
The Centre has moved an amendment allowing long-term capital gains taxes on property purchases made before July 23, 2024, to be calculated under the new 12.5 per cent rate without indexation and the old 20 per cent rate with indexation. As per the amendment introduced by the government following Budget 2024 announcement by Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman taxpayers can choose the more favourable option of the two mentioned above. This change will be introduced in the Finance Bill which was tabled in the Lok Sabha on August 6. Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi, on Tuesday. (PTI)

What Nirmala Sitharaman announced in Budget 2024?

In Budget 2024, Nirmala Sitharaman announced withdrawal of indexation benefits from real estate and lowered the long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax from 20% to 12.5%. This was criticized by industry experts who pointed out that a large number of real estate owners- especially those owning residential property- may see a significant increase in their tax burden once new regime kicks in.

Read more: Centre to ease long term capital gains tax for sale of properties

Revenue secretary Sanjay Malhotra had defended the proposal to remove indexation benefits from LTCG on real estate at the time and said that other asset classes, including incomes from shares, interest and fixed deposits do not enjoy the same benefit. The move should be seen as a simplification measure, he had then said.

Here are the changes the government has proposed for real estate sector?

As per the amendments to Finance Bill, 2024, here are the changes:

1. Individuals or HuF who bought houses before July 23, 2024 can compute his/her taxes under the new scheme at 12.5 per cent without indexation.

2. Individuals or HuF who bought houses before July 23, 2024 can compute his/her taxes under the old scheme at 20 per cent with indexation.

3. Individuals can choose to pay the tax which is lower of the two.
Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway faced losses worth approximately $15 billion on its major holdings amid a global stock market sell-off. But Warren Buffett's decision to amass substantial cash reserves by reducing stock market positions helped in cutting losses. Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, smiles as he plays bridge following the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha.(AP)

In the last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway had record $277 billion in cash reserves owing to a $76 billion stock sale. This cash pile was kept to be used during market volatility amid growing concerns over a potential US recession.

What happened to Berkshire Hathaway's stock portfolio this week?

On Monday, Berkshire Hathaway's stock portfolio took a hit as its major holdings- Apple, Bank of America and Mitsubishi- saw sharp declines. This resulted in a substantial reduction in the company's overall valuation as shares in Berkshire Hathaway fell by over 3% bringing the companys market capitalisation down to $899 billion.

Berkshires stakes in several Japanese companies, such as Mitsui, Marubeni and Sumitomo also saw a decline in the same period while hundreds of millions of dollars were wiped from holdings in American Express, Moody's and Kraft Heinz.

Berkshire Hathaway's Apple decision

Apple- one of Warren Buffett's largest investments- saw its share price drop by more than 7% which resulted in a $5.7 billion loss for Berkshire Hathaway. It was reported that Warren Buffett sold nearly half of its Apple stocks signaling his concern. There were also significant declines in other major tech stocks like Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia and Tesla.

Despite the sell-off, some investors were seen buying like Blue Whale, an investment fund backed by billionaire Peter Hargreaves, purchased shares in Nvidia.
Ola Electric IPO allotment: The allotment for initial public offering (IPO) of Ola Electric Mobility Ltd is expected to be finalised today (August 7). The issue opened for subscription on August 2 and closed on August 6. The IPO listing date is August 9 and the company is likely to fix the basis of allotment today and credit the shares into the demat accounts on August 8. Investors whose bids have been rejected will get refund of their money on the same day as well. You can check Ola Electric IPO allotment status online through the BSE website or the official portal of IPO registrar Link Intime India Private Ltd. Ola Electric IPO allotment: Ola Electric CMD Bhavish Aggarwal addresses the media during the announcement of the company's forthcoming initial public offering (IPO), in Mumbai.(PTI)

How to check Ola Electric IPO allotment on Link Intime

1. Visit Link Intime India website on this link - https://linkintime.co.in/initial_offer/public-issues.html

2. Select Ola Electric Mobility Limited in the Select Company dropdown menu

3. Choose among PAN, App. No., DP/Client ID and Account No/IFSC

4. Enter details and click on Submit

5. You will then be able to see Ola Electric IPO allotment status on the screen

Ola Electric IPO GMP

Ola Electric IPO GMP is negative or minus 3 per share which indicates that Ola Electric shares are trading at a discount of 3 in the grey market.

Ola Electric IPO subscription

Ola Electric IPO saw strong demand from investors and was subscribed 4.45 times in total as the issue received bids for 198.17 crore equity shares against 44.5 crore shares on the offer. The IPO was subscribed 4.05 times in the retail category, 5.53 times in the Qualified Institutional Bidders (QIB) category and 2.51 times in the Non-Institutional Investors (NII) category.

Ola Electric IPO details

The price band of the issue was set at 72 to 76 per share. At the upper-end of the price band, the company raised 6,145.56 crore from the issue which was a combination of fresh issue of 72.37 crore equity shares worth 5,500 crore and an offer-for-sale (OFS) component of 8.49 crore shares worth 645.56 crore. Book running lead managers of the IPO are Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, BofA Securities India, Axis Capital, SBI Capital Markets, Citigroup Global Markets India, Goldman Sachs (India) Securities, ICICI Securities and BoB Capital Markets.
The Keir Starmer-led UK government said that Elon Musk must act responsibly after Tesla CEO posted on his social media platform X about protests in the country. In a post, Elon Musk wrote, Civil war is inevitable and then questioned the UK government on why all communities are not protected in Britain. He even shared a meme with the hashtag TwoTierKeir in his other posts as he highlighted complaints that the British criminal justice system treats communities differently. Elon Musk arrives at the 10th Breakthrough Prize Ceremony at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles.(AP)

Justice minister Heidi Alexander said that in Elon Musk's posts use of language such as a civil war is in no way acceptable.

The Justice minister 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.

Talking to the BBC, Heidi Alexander said, Weve been working with the social media companies, and some of the action that theyve taken already with the automatic removal of some false information is to be welcomed. But there is undoubtedly more that the social media companies could and should be doing.

Riots in the UK

Several parts of the UK, including Plymouth and Belfast, witnessed violence after an unrest began following the incident of right-wing activists using social media to spread misinformation about a knife attack that killed three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event on July 29.
The Bengaluru police on Tuesday apprehended a 35-year-old man, identified as Syed Sarfaraz Ahmed, for allegedly extorting money from over 20 police officers by threatening to implicate them in human rights violation cases. Ahmed, a resident of the citys Bharati Nagar, previously served as an informant for police stations in Shivajinagar, DJ Halli, and RT Nagar, establishing a significant network within the police force, The Indian Express reported. Ahmed frequently visited police stations to check for detainees and used this information to file cases with the KSHRC. (HT File)

The case unfolded on July 24 when Shivajinagar police detained a man named Irshad for causing a disturbance in a restaurant, charging him under the Arms Act. Following his arrest, a deputy superintendent from the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) visited the station, investigating a complaint of illegal detention. After reviewing the documents, the officer confirmed that Irshad's arrest was lawful.

Suspecting foul play, the police noted that the KSHRC officer had similarly visited other stations, including Hennur, RT Nagar, and Ramamurthy Nagar. Further investigation revealed that Ahmed was behind the incident, demanding 50,000 to withdraw the complaint against Irshad, the report said.

To catch Ahmed, the police pretended to agree to his demand. Upon his approach for the payoff, the transaction was recorded, and Ahmed was arrested. During interrogation, it was revealed that Ahmed had committed similar offences in several police stations in the East, Northeast, and Whitefield divisions.

A police officer spoke to the publication and explained that Ahmed, who was an informant, had built a network of lower-ranking police personnel, especially in the crime units, who provided him with information. He frequently visited police stations to check for detainees and used this information to file cases with the KSHRC. He then demanded money from the inspectors to withdraw the complaints, the officer said.

Ahmed now faces charges under sections 308 (2) (extortion) and 132 (assaulting or using criminal force against a public servant in the execution of their duty) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Further investigation is underway.
The Namma Metro in Bengaluru broke yet another ridership record by reaching an all-time high of 8.26 lakh passengers on Tuesday, August 6, as reported by officials on Wednesday. Bengalurus Namma Metro set a benchmark in June with an average daily ridership of 7,45,659, generating  58.23 crore in revenue.(HT Photo/Sakib Ali)

According to a statement from the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), the operator of the Namma Metro, a total of 8,26,883 people used the Metro rail service on that day.

The Bengaluru Metro set a new record on August 6 with 8.26 lakh passengers, surpassing the previous highest of 8.25 lakh recorded on August 15, 2022, a metro official confirmed, as he spoke to news agency PTI.

This comes shortly in the backdrop of another significant milestone achieved by the Bengaluru Metro earlier in June when it recorded its highest average daily ridership to date. The average number of passengers per day was 7,45,659, leading to a monthly revenue of 58.23 crore, according to BMRCL figures.

The Bangalore metro is also in the midst of constructing its remaining lines under phases II, IIA, and IIB, which include new routes from Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara, RV Road to Bommasandra, and Silk Board to the Kempegowda International Airport.

These stretches are expected to further increase ridership, bringing more revenue to the BMRCL.

(With inputs from PTI)
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) rebel groups praesidium formed to strengthen Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar on Wednesday paid obeisance at Golden Temple and said the formation of the parliamentary board as per recommendations of the Jhundan committee report will not get desired results until there is a change in leadership at the top. Rebel leaders of the Shiromani Akali Dal at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Wednesday. (Sameer Sehgal/HT)

The rebel group led by the convener and former Nakodar MLA Gurpartpap Singh Wadala, paid obeisance at Golden Temple and then held the meeting at Dera of Kar Sewa Baba Bhuri Wale here to chalk out their next course of action. Surjit Singh Rakhra, Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Charanjit Singh Brar, Gaganjit Singh Barnala, Sucha Singh Chhotepur and Bhai Manjit Singh were present at the meeting.

Formation of the parliamentary board was one of the recommendations of the Jhundan committee report. They are implementing this recommendation when parliamentary polls have passed. Secondly, the top most recommendation was a change of leadership that starts from the top post of the party. Without the change of leadership, the implementation of other recommendations will not yield any positive result, Wadala said. SAD had formed a 13-member committee under senior leader Iqbal Singh Jhundan to suggest a course correction after the party faced a crushing defeat in the 2017 assembly polls. In a 20-page report, the committee had made 42 suggestions including changes in the top leadership and left it to the senior leaders to make a call.

Wadala said: They (Sukhbir Singh Badal) implement what is suited to them. They opt for a pick-and-choose policy. In such a situation, the party cannot be revived. People have turned wiser now. They understand everything. They cannot be befooled.

Wadala said that Wednesdays meeting was held to discuss and give shape to the Akali Dal Sudhar Lehar. While running this drive, we will approach all the organisations and traditional sects of the Sikh panth to seek their cooperation. We will go along with the Sikh intellectuals and other community members who are concerned with panthic interests, he said.
{Residents, shopkeepers irked} Sewerage water accumulated at Rahon road in Ludhiana on Wednesday, August 07, 2024. (HT Photo)

The residents and shopkeepers along the Rahon Road said they have been struggling with overflowing sewage for the past 15 days, with the problem showing no signs of receding and the officials not taking any action.

They alleged that despite numerous complaints and growing health and safety concerns, the authorities have yet to take decisive action.

They said sewerage water has been accumulating along nearly a km n the road. They said that while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led government was gearing up to celebrate the Independence Day, they were left struggling to get the basic needs.

A resident, requesting his name to be withheld, said, This sewage overflow is a routine affair. Its a major problem, especially now with dengue cases on the rise. The stagnant water has created a foul smell and it becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and flies.

Superintending engineer Ravinder Garg said that action was being taken to resolve the issue.

I have deputed two super-suction machines on Rahon Road. The cleaning drive on GT road is underway and that is why this work got delayed. I have directed the team to address the issue within a day so that people do not suffer.

Balram, who runs a shop on Rahon Road, lamented, The sewerage water has been in front of my shop for about two weeks now. I have lodged numerous complaints, but nothing has been done. This issue causes accidents daily and significantly affects our business.

Another resident, Naresh, highlighted the condition of the road. There are dangerous potholes hidden under the accumulated sewerage water. Every day, two-wheeler riders and e-rickshaw drivers meet with accidents. Its a major problem for commuters, but no action has been taken, he said.

Raju, another shopkeeper, said, The municipal corporation is limited to the urban areas and these areas problems are always neglected by them. I request the MC commissioner to come and spend one day with us in this situation so that he can get an idea of the bad smell and poor facilities.

Moreover, almost all the manholes on Rahon Road are below the earth level, which is among the main reason for multiple accidents.
The ministry of home affairs has appointed RR Swain as director general of police, Jammu and Kashmir, till September 30. The ministry of home affairs has appointed RR Swain as director general of police, Jammu and Kashmir, till September 30. (HT file photo)

Swain had been holding the additional charge of the post of DGP.

With the approval of the competent authority, RR Swain, IPS (AGMUT: 1991), at present holding the additional charge of the post of director general of police, Jammu and Kashmir, is hereby appointed to the post of director general of police, Jammu and Kashmir, with effect from the date of assumption of charge till September 30, 2024, or until further orders, whichever is earlier, the ministry said in an order dated August 6.

His appointment comes at a time when there has been a spike in terror attacks in the Jammu region since June 9, including an attack on an army convoy in Kathua and encounters in Doda and Udhampur.

In July, the ministry informed the Lok Sabha that 28 people, including civilians and security personnel, were killed in 11 terror-related incidents and 24 encounters or counter-terror operations up to July 21 this year.
Dehradun: Uttarakhand Police have booked a head of the department (HOD) at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee after an employee allegedly died by suicide, officials aware of the matter said. (Representative Photo)

Police said that the deceased was an employee at Mehta Family School of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at IIT Roorkee and was allegedly being harassed by HOD Durga Toshniwal. He died allegedly after consuming poison.

According to the police, the deceased on Tuesday left the house at around noon, informing his wife that he was going to file a complaint against HOD Durga Toshniwal with senior officials and request his transfer. He, however, did not return home by the evening. When his sister called him in the evening, the deceased informed him that he consumed poison.

A first information report (FIR) was registered against Toshniwal on Wednesday under Section 108 (abetment of suicide) of BNS on the complaint of the deceaseds wife, said police.

According to the police, the complainant told them that HOD Toshniwal used to trouble and harass his husband.

She used to make my husband do the work of a peon, ask for half of his salary, and talk to him in a derogatory manner. She would also insult him, the FIR said, quoting the complainant.

...On August 2, my husband returned from office and started cryingHe said that his senior (Toshniwal) will ruin his life and will not let him work. My husband remained upset for a few days. On August 6, he left the house at around 12-12:30pm, informing that he was going to file a complaint against Toshniwal. When he did not return home till late evening, my sister-in-law called him at around 9pm. He informed my sister-in-law that he had consumed poison as he was being troubled by Toshniwal, the FIR further read.

We have registered the FIR against HOD Durga Toshniwal on the complaint of the deceaseds wife. Our investigation into the matter is underway, said sub-inspector Abhinav Sharma.

When contacted, IIT Roorkee media cell in-charge Sonika Srivastava said a statement would be released on the incident. At the time of writing the report, HT was yet to receive any statement.

If you need support or know someone who does, please reach out to your nearest mental health specialist. Helplines: Aasra: 0222754 6669; Sneha India Foundation: +914424640050 and Sanjivini: 011-24311918, Roshni Foundation (Secunderabad) Contact Nos: 040-66202001, 040-66202000, ONE LIFE: Contact No: 78930 78930, SEVA: Contact No: 09441778290
The Delhi high court on Wednesday asked the Enforcement Directorate (ED) if it intended to arrest chief minister Arvind Kejriwal again in the money laundering case registered in connection with the Delhi excise policy. Arvind Kejriwal in CBI custody in July. (PTI)(HT_PRINT)

Taking note of the Supreme Courts July 12 order granting interim bail to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief, a bench of justice Neena Bansal Krishna asked ED what would happen even if the court cancelled the bail granted to the CM by the trial court on June 20.

The court asked the question after advocate Vivek Gurnani who appeared for ED urged the bench to adjourn its petition seeking cancellation of the bail granted to the CM by the trial court saying that additional solicitor general (ASG) SV Raju was busy in another court. Hes (Kejriwal) got bail, vis a vis PMLA (by the Supreme Court). I am confused, what do you want to do? If I cancel the bail, then what happens? Are you (ED) going to arrest him (Kejriwal) again? justice Krishna asked advocate Gurnani.

Responding to the courts query, Gurnani argued that the Supreme Court, while granting interim bail to the CM, had not declared the arrest as illegal.

Opposing the request, Kejriwal represented by senior advocate Vikram Chaudhari said that the probe agencys petition was sheer persecution and a classic case of illusion in the world ED lived in.

Read Here | 'Bibhav Kumar, CM Kejriwal were together at crime scene': Delhi Police charge sheet in Swati Maliwal assault case

Considering the contentions, the court expressed displeasure with the EDs request but adjourned the petition for September 5. Youre seeking 2nd adjournment. July 10th request (for adjournment) is from your (ED) side. He (ASG) is on his legs every time. You (ED) have to adjust your diary. When you (ED) take a date of your choice, please be present, the bench said to Gurnani.

ED moved the Delhi high court in less than 24 hours after the trial court granted bail to the chief minister claiming the court order to be perverse.

The federal agencys petition said that the bail order was passed without granting adequate opportunity to the probe agency to oppose CMs plea, despite all courts up to the Supreme Court giving judicial imprimatur regarding the commission of the offence of money laundering against the accused in the excise policy case.

The judge also said the applications filed in the case confused her. Is it for bail, illegal custody or compensation? I am confused, she said.

Read Here | Arvind Kejriwal will not bow down in front of PM Modi: Sunita Kejriwal in Haryana

On July 12, the Supreme Court granted interim bail to Kejriwal in the money laundering case and referred to a larger bench for in-depth consideration of three questions on the aspect of need and necessity of arrest under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). But he remains in jail as he is in judicial custody in the Central Bureau of Investigations corruption case stemming out of the excise policy case.

The ED counsel clarified that last time a date was sought by the counsel for the AAP and not by the probe agency and urged the court to give a short date for arguing the matter.

On June 20, Kejriwal was granted bail by a trial court on a personal bond of 1 lakh. ED moved the high court the next day and contended that the trial courts order was perverse, and one-sided and that the findings were based on irrelevant facts.

The high court, on June 21, imposed an interim stay on the trial courts bail order till the passing of an order on the EDs application for interim relief. It had issued a notice and asked Kejriwal to file a reply to the EDs petition. On June 25, the high court passed a detailed order staying the trial court order.

On July 10, ED sought adjournment to file its response to the rejoinder submitted by the AAP chief in response to the probe agencys petition. On July 17, the court adjourned the matter for August 7 after Kejriwals counsel sought time to respond to the note submitted by ED.

Citing Supreme Courts July 12 order granting interim bail to Kejriwal in the ED case, the probe agency in its reply said that multiple courts all the way up to the top court have held that there was material against the former which shows that there are reasons to believe that he was guilty of the offence of money laundering.

Kejriwal was arrested by ED and CBI on March 21 and June 26 in the money laundering and corruption cases.
Kolkata: Villagers living along the Indo-Bangla border in West Bengal have been asked to stay clear of the Indo-Bangladesh international border in the wake of political unrest and violent protests in Bangladesh, officials said. Border Security Force (BSF) personnel stand guard at the India-Bangladesh border of Petrapole (PTI Photo)

BSF officials familiar with the matter said that the shops along the border have been asked to close down by 9pm. Announcements would be made from local mosques and temples asking people to stay clear of border areas, many sections of which are still unfenced, said an official.

Villagers are locking themselves up at homes after 9pm and not going near the border anymore. The BSF has asked villagers to stay clear from the international border at night. Shops have been asked to close down by 9 pm, said Shanu Mondal, a local resident of Baranberia.

The village market at Bhatamtala, from where the border road takes off and then runs for a few kilometres along the international border, is now shutting down by 8pm, officials said. Earlier some of the shops including the lone sweet shop, two tea stalls, the quacks chamber and a village grocery store, used to remain open till late at night.

BSFs 8 battalion and 107 battalion of the South Bengal Frontier held a coordination meeting with villagers and the district administration at Baranberia, a border outpost in Nadia district, around 100 km north of Kolkata.

Also Read: India pulls out non-essential staff and families from its mission in Dhaka

A senior officer of the BSFs South Bengal Frontier said that the villagers living in the bordering areas were briefed about the situation in Bangladesh after the change of power and the Bangladeshi army taking over.

They have been asked to stay vigilant to prevent infiltration and smuggling activities and have been asked not to move freely in the border areas and on the International Border Road (IBBR) during the night, the senior officer added.

The farmers were instructed to use the gate only for essential work and were assured of immediate assistance from the BSF if required, the BSF said in a statement.

The BSF has issued an alert and deployed additional troops along the Indo-Bangla border following the political turmoil in neighbouring Bangladesh on Monday.

The Indo-Bangladesh border in West Bengal is the longest and one of the most porous international borders in the country.

Of the 4096.7 km long border, West Bengal alone shares 2,216 km with Bangladesh. In south Bengal, the border is more than 900 km long, out of which nearly 60% is riverine.

Infiltration bids, smuggling of items such as gold and drugs, and human trafficking are common in multiple pockets along this border in south Bengal.

These issues, such as management of tall crops in border areas, jute dumping by civilians near the border, civilian movement on border roads after curfew, and land acquisition for fencing in unfenced areas, were also discussed in the meeting with villagers and government officials from the district administration, said the official.

Top BSF officials, including Daljit Singh Chaudhary, director general of the BSF, have been visiting border areas in south Bengal over the past two days to review the operational preparedness and strategic deployment of troops.

On Tuesday, Chaudhury visited some of the floating outposts in the Sunderban delta.

Bangladesh has been in turmoil for the past few weeks. Its Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday amidst the nationwide public demonstrations seeking the ouster of her Awami League government. The army has taken responsibility for running the country till an interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is formed.

Nearly 140 people have been killed in violence after Hasinas resignation, taking the death toll since last month to almost 450.
The annual event held to mark Rabindranath Tagores death anniversary at Bangladesh Bhawan in Visva-Bharati, West Bengals only Central university, was on Wednesday shifted to an old playground on the campus in view of the ongoing turmoil in the neighbouring country, varsity officials said. An open are in the university campus. (Visva-Bharati University)

After Bangladesh was liberated in 1971, Amar Sonar Bangla, a song Tagore had composed in 1905, became the countrys national anthem.

Though he was born in Kolkata in 1861 and died in the city on August 7, 1941, the Nobel laureate composed many of his famous poems and songs in those parts of undivided Bengal which became East Pakistan in 1947 and subsequently Bangladesh after the Liberation War.

Although no untoward incident has happened on the campus ever since the unrest started across the border, security has been tightened here as a precautionary measure, a university official said on condition of anonymity.

The proposed screening of a biopic of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first president of Bangladesh, has also been postponed in view of the attacks on his statues in Dhaka and other places. Made by Shyam Benegal, the biopic Mujib, The Making of a Nation was supposed to have been screened at Bangladesh Bhawan this month, the official added.

The steps have been taken in view of the public rage against Sheikh Hasina, Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans daughter and head of the Awami League, who resigned as prime minister and fled to India on July 4.

The Bangladesh Bhawan was planned and funded by Hasina. She and Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated it in 2018 in the presence of West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated in Dhaka on August 15, 1975.
LUCKNOW The trend of top doctors crossing over from government hospitals to the private fold for greener pastures continues with at least three-dozen senior/experienced faculty members having quit premier institutes here in the past 5 years. Over a dozen doctors have left King Georges Medical University (KGMU). (Pic for representation)

Over a dozen doctors have left King Georges Medical University (KGMU) with the latest being Dr Arshad Ahmad from the department of general surgery in March 2023. A few others include Dr Madhukar Mittal, endocrinologist; Dr Sunil Kumar, neurosurgeon; Dr Vijayant of CVTS department; Dr Vishal, Dr Vivek Gupta of gastro-surgery; Dr Manish Kumar Singh, neurology; Dr Sant Pandey, nephrology and Dr Manmeet Singh, organ transplant/urology.

We have worked on increasing avenues for faculty. Now, we are able to retain our experienced and even young faculty members by giving them more opportunities, said Dr Sudhir Singh, spokesperson, KGMU.

However, those leaving have a different perspective. In a government set-up, the reward for work is missing. Money may be one reason, but job satisfaction too went missing in the past few years as politicisation of campuses made work difficult, said a former faculty of KGMU.

Ironically, UPs first medical oncology department was set up at the Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, but the doctor who established it left the institute and is working in a private set-up in Lucknow. Dr Gaurav Gupta (medical oncology), Dr Prashant Verma (gastroenterology), Dr Manish Gutch (endocrinology), Dr Roma Pradhan of (endocrine surgery), Dr Dhananjay Singh (nuclear medicine) and Dr Rakesh Singh (neurosurgery) are among those who left the institute.

In the initial years, exodus of doctors also impacted Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute and Hospital, from where several doctors left and rejoined either their previous organization or moved on to a new one. Several departments here could not start or did not have staff/infrastructure. Dr Himanshu Yadav of anaesthesia department, who was looking after palliative care unit, left the institute in June 2024.

There is also a pattern of many doctors leaving the SGPGIMS over the past decade, citing high work pressure and insufficient pay as primary reasons. Dr Neeraj Rastogi from the PGIs department of oncology resigned recently to join a private hospital. On an average, a specialist departs from the SGPGIMS every three years, exacerbating the challenge of maintaining high-quality patient care.

Dr DS Bhadauria from the nephrology department left a few months ago to join a private hospital. Last year, the head of department of gastroenterology, Dr UC Ghoshal and his wife Dr Ujjwala Ghoshal, along with former department heads Dr Amit Aggarwal and Dr Anshul Gupta, moved to the private sector.

Other notable departures include Drs Gaurang Majumdar, Anil Mandani, and Anand Prakash, who left for better working conditions in private hospitals. Around 40 leading doctors have resigned during the last six years.

A highly placed official at PGI stated that the state government has acknowledged this issue. Health department officials are aware of how private hospitals lure SGPGI doctors with better salaries and working conditions.

Some former doctors advocate revenue-sharing models to retain talent, suggesting that public hospitals should share earnings with their doctors.

Meanwhile, an SGPGIMS official said: While the institute has initiated steps to improve working conditions, a more comprehensive government policy is required to address the systemic issues driving this exodus. Without such measures, the institutes ability to deliver quality healthcare and education will continue to be compromised, further straining an already overburdened system.

Another reason cited by faculty leaving campuses is private practice (PP) that is banned for all government doctors in UP. Private practice is allowed in 22 states of India, but not in UP, said another former faculty member.

Doctors get respect in government set-up, especially in medical institutes where they get opportunities for research work also. But the private sector offers good money. For example, if a government institute provides up to 2 lakh a month, there is restriction on private practice and hence doctors cannot see patients after they leave the institute campus. Working in a private set-up, the same doctors earn up to 5 lakh by working in two shifts.

NUMBER CRUNCH

# At least three-dozen specialist doctors have left premier medical institutes in the past 5 years to join private hospitals.

# The PGI has 110 vacant faculty positions in different departments.

# Around 7 doctors left PGI in 2019-20, while 5 left in 2023-24

# PGIs research allocation was 0.17% of total non-plan grants. Many research projects remain incomplete due to a lack of staff
Mumbai, The Bombay High Court on Wednesday said it would on August 9 pass order on a petition filed by advertising firm director Bhavesh Bhinde, an accused in the Ghatkopar hoarding collapse case, claiming he was illegally arrested and arguing the tragedy that killed 17 persons was an "act of God". Bhinde, director of Ego Media Private Ltd who was arrested in May, has sought his immediate release from jail where he is in judicial custody. A division bench of Justices Bharati Dangre and Manjusha Deshpande, which heard the plea, reserved its order and said it would be delivered on Friday . Bhinde has sought that the FIR registered against him be quashed, claiming the May 13 hoarding collapse in suburban Ghatkopar, which killed 17 persons, was an "act of God" and hence he cannot be held responsible for the crash. Bhinde, booked for culpable homicide not amounting to murder, among other charges, has pleaded for release on interim bail pending hearing of the plea. The ad firm director's lawyer, Rizwan Merchant, on Wednesday told the court his client was arrested from Udaipur, Rajasthan, on May 16 and then brought to Mumbai. Bhinde, was, however, shown as arrested only on May 17, Merchant said and submitted this shows his client was in illegal detention for a whole day. Merchant relied on media reports quoting police as saying that Bhinde was apprehended in Udaipur and arrested. Public Prosecutor Hiten Venegaonkar argued that Bhinde was only apprehended in Rajasthan and formally arrested on May 17. Venegaonkar submitted that all procedures for arrest, including signatures of independent witnesses on the relevant document, were followed and urged the court to dismiss the plea. Bhinde-led Ego Media had erected the giant hoarding that collapsed on a petrol pump amid rains and dust storm. More than 70 people were also injured in the crash. Citing the India Meteorological Department 's bulletin issued on May 12, Bhinde claimed it failed to correctly predict the weather of the next day. "The IMD bulletin failed to predict the severe dust storms with gusty winds that hit Mumbai on the fateful day . On account of the aforesaid, the said hoarding collapsed and not due to improper, faulty construction of the same as wrongly, falsely alleged in the said FIR," his plea said. The "unexpected and unprecedented wind speeds of up to 96 kmph" caused the hoarding to collapse, an event for which neither he nor Ego Media could be held accountable, insisted the petition. As per his plea, the hoarding was legally installed after securing all requisite permissions from relevant authorities.

HT Image
Pune: For Prachi Dhabal Deb, the city-based cake artist, honours are like another icing on her achievement. The UKs prestigious Oxford University recently honoured the three-time World Record holder for her contributions to Royal Icing Art at the India Week 2024, making her the first cake artist to get the award. The UK Parliament also felicitated her as the most prominent Royal Icing Artist. UKs prestigious Oxford University recently honoured three-time World Record holder Prachi Dhabal Deb for her contributions to Royal Icing Art. (HT)

Born in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, Deb was brought up in Dehradun, Uttarakhand and completed her schooling in Kolkata. She has been living at Pimpri-Chinchwad in Pune for 13-14 years and calls it her karma bhoomi.

Its been 10 years since I have been in the industry. I wanted to push boundaries for myself as an artist and be an inspiration for others. It is an honour to be acknowledged for my work in a field that I am so passionate about, the 36-year-old said.

Debs creation  a 100kg vegan edible royal icing structure inspired by the Milan Cathedral  was inducted in the World Book of Records, UK. She also holds the world record for the maximum number of vegan royal icing structures, and a 200kg edible structure of an Indian-inspired palace created with vegan royal icing.
The University of Delhi will close the registration process for CSAS Phase 1, Phase 2 DU UG Admission 2024 on August 7, 2024. Candidates who want to apply for the admission round can find the direct link on the official website of Delhi University at du.ac.in. DU UG Admission 2024: CSAS Phase 1, Phase 2 registration closes today, link here

As per the official notice, candidates who have still not registered themselves on the CSAS portal will also be able to register as the University has decided to keep both the phases open till August 7, 2024, 4.59 pm. Phase I and Phase II will close at 4.59 pm today and the preferences saved/ submitted by the candidates will get auto locked on reaching the deadline of 5 pm on August 9, 2024.

DU UG Admission 2024: CSAS phase 2 underway, 5 things to know before applying

The declaration of simulated ranks will be available on August 11, 2024 and preference change window will open on August 11 at 5 pm and close on August 12, 2024.

The first CSAS allocation list will be displayed on August 16, 2024 at 5 pm. Candidates who have been allocated a seat can accept it from August 16 to August 18, 2024. Colleges can verify and approve the online applications from August 16 to August 20, 2024. The last date of online fee payment by candidates is till August 21, 2024.

DU UG Admission 2024: How to register for Phase I and II

To apply online, candidates can follow the steps given below.

Visit the official website of Delhi University at du.ac.in.

Click on DU admission link available on the home page.

A new page will open where candidates will have to click on registration link.

Again a new page will open where enter the required details and register.

Once registration is done, login to the account.

Fill the application form and make the payment of application fee.

Click on submit and download the page.

Keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

For more related details candidates can check the official website of Delhi University.
Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University or IP University will be commencing online registrations for candidates possessing Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET) UG marks from August 9, 2024. Candidates will be able to apply on the official website at ipu.ac.in and ipu.admissions.nic.in. The registration window will open from 12 noon. The IP University online registrations through CUET begins from August 9. Submit applications on ipu.ac.in or ipu.admissions.nic.in by August 20, 2024. (Representative image)

The deadline to submit applications is August 20, 2024, up to 11:59 PM.

Also read: Planning to pursue Interior Design as career? Check scope, eligibility, career options, salary expectation and more

It may be mentioned here that the University had released a notification earlier wherein it stated that admissions through the merit of CUET will be carried out after exhausting the merit of the National Level Test (NET) and Common Entrance Test (CLT) conducted by the University.

It further stated that only candidates who had appeared in CUET are eligible to appear to register at the university portal. It added that any candidate who had secured any seat in any programme/college through NLT/CET of the University and has Admitted status shall not be granted any seat in any programme through the merit of CUET.

Notably, tentatively 19 undergraduate programmes are being offered by IP University. These include BS Packing Technology, B.Sc./M.Sc. (Dual Degree), B.Sc. (Environmental Science), BA English, BA Economics, B.Sc Yoga, and more.

It may be mentioned here that the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the result of the Common University Entrance Test or CUET UG 2024, held for admission to undergraduate courses offered by central universities and other participating institutions on July 28.

Also read: Understanding the cues to help your child from bullying at school

For the first time, the entrance test was held in a hybrid mode (computer-based test and pen and paper test). The exam took place on May 15, 16, 17, and 18. 21, 22, 24 and 29. As per information shared by the NTA, the test was held for around 13.48 lakh students.

Also read: Karnataka govt. to recruit 650 assistant professors and 1,200 nurses

Meanwhile, for more information on IP University admissions, candidates can visit the official website of the university.
KCET 2024 Round 1 Mock Allotment Result Live: Mock allotment list to be out soon at kea.kar.nic.in

KCET 2024 Round 1 Mock Allotment Result Live: Karnataka Eaminations Authority will issue the KCET 2024 round 1 mock allotment Result anytime soon. Candidates can check the mock seat allotment result on the official website of KEA at kea.kar.nic.in and cetonline.karnataka.gov.in. The official date of release of the results was on August 7, 2024, but the results have not been released yet....Read More

The result will be announced for Engineering, Architecture, Yoga & Naturopathy, Veterinary, Farm Science, B. Pharma, Pharma D, B.Sc (Nursing) etc courses but not for Medical, Dental and AYUSH.

The options entered by the candidates upto August 4, 2024 will be considered for first mock seat allotment.

The provision to change option entry by eligible candidates (add/ alter/ rearrange/ delete the options) will be available on August 9 and can be done till August 11, 2024.

The first seat allotment result will be released on August 21, 2024. Follow the blog for latest updates on results, direct link and more details.
Gege Akutami has provided a detailed backstory about Satoru Gojo, the beloved Jujutsu Kaisen character, at an exhibition. JJK fan account @Go_Jover recently shared all 33 questions that the 32-year-old Japanese illustrator answered in a lengthy thread on X, formerly Twitter. In this article, we will explore Akutami's revelations about Gojo. Gege Akutami answers 33 questions about Gojo Satoru

Gojo's biography

In the first set of questions, Akutami revealed Gojo's early life and history, starting with his birthplace, Kyoto, where his clan's main house is located. When asked about whether Gojo sometimes speaks in his local dialect, Akutami said, Not likely, adding that either as a child, he was taken along on missions as part of an elite Jujutsu Sorcerer training of the big three clans. Or he just moved to Tokyo when he was little.

Akutami explained that it was Gojo's wish and not his parents to go to Jujutsu Tech because he was fed up with his overbearing family. The mangaka went on to say that both of his parents are alive and have gained a higher status within the Gojo clan by giving birth to Gojo Satoru, but they are not particularly strong as Jujutsu Sorcerers so they were separated with Gojo at a young stage.

He explained that this was because his parents couldn't interfere with his education as a sorcerer. Gojo is an only child but has many relatives because he was born in one of the big three clans. However, he did not have normal interactions with any of them because he constantly received special treatment from everyone around him.

Gojo's training as a sorcerer at Jujutsu Tech

The interviewer then asked, In Chapter 96, Ogami and the others saw a kid Gojo walking down the city alone. What was he doing in the middle of the city? He ran away from his home and was just wandering around, Akutami answered before revealing that prior to his training, he had a fair amount of fun.

Additionally, Gojo already had experience fighting curses and exorcising them before joining Jujutsu tech. Despite the students at Jujutsu Tech being allowed to modify their uniforms based on their tastes and preferences, Gojo never really made any alterations. Gojo has a pretty plain uniform and hasn't customised it much, Akutami revealed.

Does he have a mentor in Jujutsu? In response to this, Akutami revealed that the basics of Jujutsu were completed within the Gojo family as he probably did have a mentor there. As for his technique, he had to work hard on his own based on remaining records of it.

The next question delves into how much Gojo charges per mission and his total personal assets. Akutami explained that as a sorcerer, he receives a monthly salary, adding that his status as a Special Grade Sorcerer means that he probably earns a salary comparable to that of a minister. Since Gojo is the head of his family, he has considerable assets. So, long story short, Gojo is rich.

Gojo's personality, likes and dislikes

When asked whether Gojo has any complexes, Akutami said, Probably not. If I had to say, it would probably be him unable to stop Geto. The Jujutsu Kaisen creator revealed that at the time of Itadori's death, Gojo was pissed before adding that But I think there is also a part of him that has resigned himself to the death of his comrades.

The latter part of the questions revolve around Gojo's likes and dislikes and what he is like as a person. According to Akutami, he doesn't really have any particular hobby or experience that makes him happy. I can't really imagine it but he's probably happy when he meets someone with talent as a Jujutsu Sorcerer, he said.

Apart from Japanese, Gojo is not fluent in any other language. However, Akutami noted that he can probably speak a little bit of English. Whenever Gojo drinks too much alcohol, he spaces out instantly. But more so than anything, the output of his CT takes the real hit or, in Akutami's words, starts bugging out.

The JJK creator also noted how it is quite unlikely for Gojo to have a driver's license. But even if he has one he would probably pass with a single test and become a paper driver, he explained. Surprisingly, Akutami thinks that both, Gojo's biggest strength and weakness is his personality.

Does Gojo cook? It's not like he can't cook, but he doesn't very often, Akutami said. He also said that Gojo prefers beaches over mountains, dogs over cats, bread over rice, and is right-handed.
Actor Adil Hussain is disturbed after seeing the heart-wrenching visuals coming out of Bangladesh amid growing political unrest. The actor says it is time to stand up and protect those affected in the protests. Also read: Sonu Sood appeals to everyone to help in rescuing fellow Indians from Bangladesh: 'Not just government's responsibility' On the work front, Adil Hussain was last seen in Ulajh.

The actor, who was most recently seen in film, Ulajh, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express his views, and urge the Indian government to do more.

Time to stand up

On Wednesday, Adil tweeted, Heart Wrenching visuals from Bangladesh. The Attacks and Atrocities on Minority communities and on others in Bangladesh are Shocking! India must do more to Protect them.

He added, I stand with the Pains and Sufferings of the Victims. And I urge the Perpetrators to Stand Down. They should hang their Heads In Shame for their Actions. All Political leaders, specifically Muslim Leaders of India Must, Must call out these Perpetrators.

More celebs speak up

Earlier, actor Sonu Sood had used social media to appeal to the citizens of India to help rescue fellow Indians who are stuck in Bangladesh. It came after Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina fled the country in a military aircraft amid widespread violence on Monday.

We should do our best to bring back all our fellow Indians from Bangladesh, so they get a good life here. This is not just the responsibility of our Government which is doing its best but also all of us. Jai Hind (tricolour emoji), he wrote.

On August 5, Sonam Kapoor had expressed concerns over the rising death toll in Bangladesh. She shared an Instagram post by The Juggernaut on her Instagram story, which mentioned how 66 people had died in a single day amid the clashes. The actor captioned her post as, This is horrible. Let's all pray for Bangladeshi people.

About the crisis

A student-led protest against the quota system transformed into a mass movement against the Sheikh Hasina regime due to its crackdown on the protestors, which claimed hundreds of lives. Serving a record fifth term, she finally stepped down and fled to Delhi, where, according to her son, her stay is likely to be extended by some more time. An interim government, led by Nobel Prize winner Mohammed Yunus will run Bangladesh for now.
A brotherly bond

On an episode of Rendezvous with Simi Garewal that aired in 2002, Kareena Kapoor was in conversation with the host about Abhishek and their romantic scenes in Refugee. While talking to Abhishek Bachchan during the shoot of the movie, she said AB this is our first romantic scene together, and how can I fall in love with you? Youre like my brother. Abhishek was engaged to Kareena's elder sister Karisma. The engagement later broke off and he married Aishwarya Rai in 2007 and Karisma married Sunjay Kapur in 2003. They split in 2016.

Kareena ruined Abhishek?

During the episode, a clip of Abhishek Bachchan talking to the audience played where he spilled the details of this incident on set, adding I will never forgive you for ruining me in that scene. The scene Abhishek was referring to in the movie took place at the Dargah, during which Kareenas character asks Abhisheks character to stay back when he informs her that he has to leave, marking one of the first romantic scenes in the movie.

The clip of AB aired on the show that also included a sweet message for Kareena, where he mentions Apart from being one of my best friends, youre also my first co-star and my first reel love, so I do share a very special bond with you, considering the two Bollywood superstars made their debut in the industry together with Refugee. I couldnt have asked for anything but to work in my first film with him, added Kareena, in conversation with Simi Garewal.

Refugee recently marked 24 years since its release on June 30th, and Kareena Kapoor posted a reel of clips from the movie on her Instagram to mark the date. Her caption says 24 years of discovering myself and my characters. The best is yet to come Love you all celebrating her time in the industry since she made her debut with this movie.
Kate dares to bare

The actor is seen on the cover for the new issue of Harper's Bazaar UK. In one photograph, she has gone completely topless in water as she looks directly into the camera. She is wearing a pair of white gold and diamond. In the picture, she is also seen flaunting her small bird tattoo on her wrist.

In the interview, the actor spoke about body image, and her upcoming film, Lee.

In the film, Kate is seen in the role of Lee Miller, a model turned photographer who goes on to become a war correspondent in World War II. In the interview, the actor recalled an incident when she was asked by a member of the crew to sit up straighter while filming a scene in a bikini to hide her belly role.

Not ashamed of belly rolls

"Theres a bit where Lees sitting on a bench in a bikini... And one of the crew came up between takes and said: 'You might want to sit up straighter.' So you cant see my belly rolls? Not on your life! It was deliberate, you know?" she said.

The actor also admitted that she doesn't mind looking less-than-perfect on screen. The opposite. I take pride in it because it is my life on my face, and that matters. It wouldn't occur to me to cover that up, she added.

Kate found her way into the limelight when she was just 20 after she starred in an adaptation of Jane Austen's Sense And Sensibility in 1995.

She is popular for one of cinema's most iconic nude scenes of all time in 1997's Titanic. In the movie, she was seen in the role of Rose. In the scene, she is seen reclining on a sofa when she asks her love interest Jack, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, to make a sketch of her. She was last seen in The Regime.
Convicted felon and former music mogul Suge Knight has stirred up fresh controversy with his new theory that Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez are headed for divorce. Former music mogul Suge Knight alleges FBI showed Ben Affleck videos of Jennifer Lopez's past, leading to divorce(File)

Knight claims that the FBI provided Affleck with videos obtained during a raid on Sean Diddy Combs' house, which allegedly contained compromising details about Lopez, and FBI gave respect and a courtesy call to Ben Affleck about it.

Knight claimed seeing these videos, the Batman star could never look at JLo the same, and that's why they are filing for a divorce.

In a recent episode of his show Collect Calls With Suge Knight, the notorious music mogul made these sensational allegations. He suggested, Im quite sure they [FBI] probably called. And the FBI gave respect and a courtesy call to Ben Affleck.

ALSO READ| TV host Sarah Ferguson says Ben Affleck was one of her worst interview guests: He was just rude, not interested

Suge claims that FBI showed Affleck compromising video fo JLo and Diddy

The former Death Row Records CEO further speculated that Affleck was shown the videos as a form of "white man's privilege," suggesting that authorities might have wanted to give Affleck a chance to distance himself from Lopez before the videos became public.

Its a white man who got respect in the white world. Im quite sure they said, We want to show you some things about your wife', he alleged. When he sees the s*** that her and Puffy were doing and who they were doing it with, Im quite sure they gave his a** those tapes. And Im quite sure that he can never look at her the same.

Knight elaborated on the nature of the videos, implying they contained evidence of Lopezs involvement in the 1999 nightclub shooting incident. At the time, rapper Shyne took the fall for Diddy, who was dating Lopez. They [the FBI] know the fact that J. Lo lied and said that the gun was Shyne's or whatever and sent that man to prison, destroyed his life, and she knew it was Puffy's, Knight claimed.

ALSO READ| Jennifer Lopez spotted visiting her LA mansion without wedding ring amid Ben Affleck split rumours

Knight is convinced that the information in the videos is enough to cause a rift between Affleck and Lopez. Im quite sure they headed for divorce because thats a man who had a good life Great parents dont spend a lot of money. Aint tripping off paparazzi, hes living his life. He got his own team. She done brought all tha extra sh*t out and now that moth*rf**ker he want out.

Jennifer Lopez has remained silent about the Homeland Security raid on Diddy's home. However,New York lawyer Pete Gleason told In Touch Weekly, Jennifer Lopezs presence the night of the shooting incident and then departing in the same vehicle as Combs makes her a witness with firsthand knowledge and could subject her to being subpoenaed to testify under oath.
BTS member Suga, aka Min Yoongi, has penned a long note apologising to his fans after he was involved in a drunk driving incident. Taking to Weverse on Wednesday morning, Suga explained how he was returning home on his electric kickboard after drinking late at night. Currently, Suga is serving in the South Korean military. (Also Read | Jin reveals why BTS' RM, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, Taehyung and Jungkook were jealous of him) Suga is currently serving in the military. (Instagram / agustd)

What happened to Suga

The BTS rapper said that he violated traffic laws. He shared that while setting up his electric scooter near his house, he fell down. A police officer did his breathalyzer test, following which his license was revoked, and he was fined.

Suga apologises to BTS ARMY

Suga's note read, Hello. This is Suga. It is with a very heavy and apologetic heart that I have to come to you with such disappointment. After drinking at dinner last night, I rode home on an electric kickboard. I violated road traffic laws without realising that I was not allowed to use an electric kickboard while drunk due to the simple thought that it was a short distance away.

BTS rapper says he was fined, license revoked

The rapper continued, While setting up my electric scooter at the front door of my house, I fell alone. A police officer was nearby, and as a result of a breathalyzer test, my license was revoked, and I was fined. Although no one was harmed or any facilities were damaged during this process, I bow my head in apology to everyone as it is my responsibility and there is no room for excuses.

I apologise to everyone who was hurt by my careless and wrong actions, and I will be more careful in my actions to avoid such incidents in the future, concluded his note.

BigHit Music apologises too

BTS agency BigHit Music also issued a statement. It read, Hello. This is Big Hit Music. We apologise for the accident involving BTS member Suga's electric scooter."

On Tuesday night (June 6), Suga used an electric scooter while wearing a helmet while returning home after drinking alcohol. After traveling about 500 meters, he fell while parking, and was given a ticket and license revocation as a result of a sobriety test by police officers who were nearby. The incident did not result in any personal injury or property damage, and he returned home under police escort, it continued.

Suga to face disciplinary action

"We apologise for the disappointment this artist's inappropriate behaviour caused many of you. As a social service worker, he will receive appropriate disciplinary action from his employer for his behaviour. We will be more careful to prevent this from happening in the future. Thank you, ended the note.
Kanye West's former chief of staff, Milo Yiannopoulos, leveled several allegations against the rapper and his dentist, Thomas P. Connelly. In 2015, West stated that he developed a completely new attitude on everything" after receiving nitrous gas from a dentist.(Amy Harris/Invision/AP)

In a court affidavit, Yiannopoulos, who worked for West from 2022 to 2024 as his chief of staff, stated that his duties included solving mysteries and fixing problems where others have failed. He left the job in May this year.

Yiannopoulos claimed in the affidavit that the Grammy-winning artist's staff had concerns about his dependency on nitrous gas and alleged that he was being exploited by a dentist, Daily Mail reported.

He compared West's widely-reported bipolar diagnosis and the side effects of prolonged nitrous gas abuse in his filing. These side effects include reckless behavior, paranoia and mood swings.

He defended his respectable track record, stating that he has worked for a number of affluent individuals in Florida as well as Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene.

In addition, Yiannopoulos mentioned that he was motivated by urgent concern for West's health and safety. He expressed reservations about Connelly, the dentist who set up West's permanent titanium grill. These concerns include the unlawful supply of enormous quantities of nitrous gas to a wealthy, famous patient for explicitly recreational use.

Also Read: Potential Kanye West retirement gimmick and Vultures trilogy's cursed journey explored

West's ex-staff opens up about rapper's reliance on nitrous gas

Connelly allegedly supplied West with advisors... who demanded gigantic sums for their services and suggested widespread and disruptive changes to his business, according to Yiannopoulos' declaration. In addition, he claimed that the dentist was hoping that West's increasing reliance on nitrous gas would seal the deal.

He stated that the rapper's staff members became concerned after witnessing four large surgical tanks of nitrous oxide into Bianca Censori's apartment. One of the West's staff members claimed to have witnessed him administering the nitrous gas provided by Connelly.

Yiannopoulos further claimed that West seemed to be in and out of the inhaler mask on a near-constant basis, talked about it non-stop in meetings, and that communications were becoming incomprehensible and contradictory.

According to him, the dentist aimed to exploit West's psychological vulnerabilities.

Without directly mentioning West, Yiannopoulos claimed that Connelly stole millions of dollars... from a patient he knew to be in a confused, dependent, weakened and addicted state.

West made major admission

In 2015, West stated that he developed a completely new attitude on everything after receiving nitrous gas from a dentist.

Conversely, Yiannopoulos asserted in July that West was hooked on nitrous thanks to the Doctor Death of Dentistry. He claimed that staff members did nothing while seeing Ye permanently destroy his brain with a neurotoxin.
Dalljiet Kaur is choosing to move on with her life and not take another chance at loyalty. A few days ago, she lodged an FIR against estranged husband Nikhil Patel on the charges of cruelty and criminal breach of trust. Now, in a new post, Dalljiet has shared a video of her and Nikhil Patel's matching tattoos, and explained what it meant to her. She went on to add that she will be redesigning that tattoo now. (Also read: Dalljiet Kaur files FIR against estranged husband Nikhil Patel amid cheating allegations: Report) Dalljiet Kaur shared the matching tattoo she got with Nikhil Patel.

Dalljiet's post

On Wednesday, Dalljiet took to her Instagram to flaunt her and her estranged husband's matching Take 2 tattoos. Explaining the significance of this tattoo, she wrote a long note in the caption, which began: Take 2. A tattoo that represented strength to fall in love again. Strength to trust again. Strength to leave the country and wrapping up everything for love and a hope to have family that me and Jaydon craved so much for. After nine years I took the plunge as I got lost in the fantasy of having a family and all that I was being told to believe.

She added, Take 2 was a chance I gave myself, to call someone my husband. For my son to feel what having a father would feel like. Now I know there was no such thing as faith and loyalty, love and respect, togetherness and commitment. It was all about numbers from the very beginning and loyalty was never on the table. Numbers must be high so the switch happened quickly ! Now I know, when I was being told we will fix this there was a replacement already being fixed too..

Dalljiet asserted that she is open to ideas to help her redesign the tattoo, and concluded, For all those who are insisting on redesigning my tattoo. Yes I am going to do it. Come up with good ideas, we can do something fun and creative so the healing finally begins. Would look forward to some fun ideas.

More details

Nikhil was recently spotted at Mumbai airport with his girlfriend Safeena Nazar. Dalljiet had shared screenshots of a post in which Nikhil was seen with his new girlfriend and wrote, No wordsjust tears that won't stop

Dalljiet and Nikhil married on March 10, 2023, in a ceremony surrounded by close friends and family. She moved to Kenya but returned home to Mumbai in January 2024 with her son Jaydon. The divorce speculation surrounding the estranged couple started in February 2024, after they both unfollowed each other and deleted posts from their Instagram handles.
Barzakh review: Asim Abbasi returns to Zee Zindagi four years after his gripping crime thriller Churails. He pulls off a casting coup by getting Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed to reunite 11 years after their popular romantic drama Zindagi Gulzar Hai. But in this folk fantasy, they aren't paired together. They play unlikely companions on a spiritual journey. But the journey is so fettered with its own excesses that it becomes increasingly strenuous to comprehend and appreciate what Asim is going for here. Barzakh review: Sanam Saeed and Fawad Khan reunite

(Also Read: Fawad Khan-Sanam Saeed's show Barzakh pulled down from YouTube in Pakistan. Heres why)

Stuck in limbo

The story is set in the Land of Nowhere, a valley presumably in Pakistan, where Jafar Khanzada (Salman Shahid), a wealthy patriarch, invites his estranged sons to partake in his third wedding. They're his kids from the first wedding, but that's not the only reason why they're awkward. Jafar is now getting married to his first love Mahtab, who died decades ago, but he's determined that she still exists on the other side. Non-believers like his younger son Shahryar (Fawad) dismiss the event, while his caregiver Scheherezade (Sanam) implores us to have faith in the unknown.

Fawad Khan plays a non-believer in Barzakh

That's what the director does too, by engulfing the narrative in a supernatural embrace. There are fairies with rocks tied to their backs that weigh them down, instead of wings that give them flight. There's a tree of life (or death?), the stem of which rips apart upon any cosmic turbulence. And there's a mysterious woman who keeps painting and gifting guests' deepest darkest secrets to them. And if these visual clues weren't enough, Asim gift-wraps the show with quotes from the Book of Nowhere in Rumi-like font, a voiceover emanating like it's from the grave, and certain know-it-all characters enunciating like they're reading out listlessly from a snail-speed teleprompter.

The treatment proves to be more of a hindrance than an aid to the storytelling. It's amply evident that Asim is trying to paint a Pakistani/South Asian folk fantasy counterpart of Ari Aster's Midsommar (2019), but the visual imagery isn't as strikingly original as the Florence Pugh-starrer. I still can't forget the image of floral creepers almost engulfing her character. Unfortunately, there's no such cinematic sorcery at play here. Mo Azmi's cinematography milks the stunning locations  the pink sky, the amber leaves, and the expansive mountains are subtle reminders that there's something larger at play. But the stakes are always communicated by talking down to us. As if it's a riddle that we can't solve not because we're trying, but because they refuse to give us enough clues in the first place.

Characters > Worldbuilding

Barzakh would've been a far gripping series had it not allowed the worldbuilding to consume the fairly fascinating characters. Salman Shahid lends a distinct dismissive and arrogant streak to the patriarch Jafar that he comes across as a man who may have been shielding his brute force with his obsession with first love. Or he loved so deeply that he can't help but hate with the same intensity when that love is taken away prematurely. When he says, Mujhe pyar karna aata hi nahi hai (I don't even know how to love), you hard agree, but also wish he'd have lived a less harsh life.

Fawad Khan's Shehryar is the typical rebellious son who vows never to follow in his emotionally unavailable father's footsteps, only to overcompensate with his son to eventually become the same as his old man. Again, the actor brings truckloads of empathy and a deep-seated pain to his portrayal that every time you see him unravel, you want to give him a reassuring hug. There's also his elder brother, who keeps his life aside to take care of his ailing mother, but gets frustrated to the point that he stuffs food into her mouth when she refuses to eat. The very same frustration is echoed by Shehryar's wife, an unwilling mother, who imposes the caregiving on her toddler son out of postpartum depression.

Barzakh touches upon these everyday themes of the burden of caregiving, the cyclic nature of parenting, and the curbing of sexuality with a sensitive touch. But they're beaten down by its lofty ideas of life, death, afterlife, and balance of the universe. Sure, the supernatural would've made for a new way to tell the same old story in a fresh format instead of going the slice-of-life route. But it's hurled like an attack on the audience's intelligence rather than applied like a sound narrative device. Even the cringe but funny death jokes cracked by Fawad and his son's characters would've sufficed. For those tell us that we need not take death seriously, but also remind us that we can't brush it under the carpet either. Asim Abbasi could've approached Barzakh more with this telling lightness of touch instead of the manufactured heavy-handedness. By trying to straddle the two, he just makes his storytelling invariably stuck in limbo.
Sherwin-Williams, a paint titan in the interior design industry has officially released its 2025 Colormix Forecast. This year's selections are a variation of 48 colours condensed into 4 Capsule palettes: Chrysalis, Paradox, Wellspring, and Kindred. The overall theme of the palettes takes inspiration from the simultaneous releases of Barbie (2023) and Oppenheimer (2023) aka Barbenheimer as well as the unexpected red colour theory  both of which focus on an unanticipated bright colour to anchor a room or a corner in your house. Sherwin-Williams has unveiled its 2025 Colormix Forecast

Its a little bit of chaos. Were not looking to anyone for permission on how we use colour anymore. Were searching for an authentic colour, whether its an anchoring dark hue, or a bold, bright pop of colour, said Sue Wadden, the colour marketing director at Sherwin-Williams to Elle Decor.

Chrysalis: neutrals

The first palette in the capsule focuses on raw and elemental neutrals like sand, cappuccino, moss green, and slate greys. The rustic shades embody a sophisticated, nature-inspired palette that focuses on the conscious use of sustainable materials.

Focus on elemental neutral shades taken from the earth(Sherwin-Williams Colormix Forecast 2025)

Paradox: dopamine-drenched shades

The next palette plays on the exuberant and unexpected  bright pops of colour that bring joy. The aim of this palette is to induce surprise and delight when you enter a room by amplifying the whimsy and wonder of architecture and design through dopamine-inducing shades like bright pink, lilac, and butter yellow.

Plays on the exuberant and unexpected(Sherwin-Williams Colormix Forecast 2025)

Wellspring: neoclassic royals

The third palette re-imagines the classic by artistically instituting a myriad of powerful shades like bottle green, royal blue, and yellow ochre into modern design; the end goal is to fuse the past with the present, combining yesteryear's reverent shades with today's paint coating technology.

Reimagines the classic by combining a series of deep shades (Sherwin-Williams Colormix Forecast 2025)

Kindred: warm-hearted colours

A series of easy pastels and other complementary light colours that make you feel good when you enter a room is the theme for the last palette. Maximalist yet collaborative shades are highlighted here; from tomato red to pastel coral and greyish red.

Pastels and light colours

The 2025 Colormix Forecast from Sherwin-Williams embraces an unapologetic approach to colour, encouraging homeowners to explore the chaos within creativity. Who said paint had to be boring?
Pre-made curry powder mixes have blown up both on home turf and abroad for a multitude of reasons. The strong NRI base overseas in congruence with expanding global culinary preferences are the key motivating factors. However, the convenience that these small packets of flavour bombs come with, wins fair and square as the primary driving force behind the advent of the curry. Those savouring these mixes however, had a scare earlier this year with packaged variants such as fish curry masala, Madras curry powder and Sambhar masala powder and the quintessential curry powder being 'banned' in Singapore and Hong Kong. The reason? These mixes were found to be adulterated with carcinogens or cancer-causing chemicals, ethylene oxide to be specific. Amid news of curry powder carrying carcinogens, consider making your own batch from scratch(Photos: Freepik)

Just to be clear, ethylene oxide is identified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, particularly linking it to increased cases of breast cancer. Putting those worried to rest, the Ministry of Commerce, which also controls the Spices Board, informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, August 6, that powders exported from India had not in fact, been "banned" by Singapore and Hong Kong. Instead, certain consignments were put under a Hold-and-Test regime for one-month by the Singapore Food Agency.

Are curry powder mixes unsafe?

Anything with carcinogens can be flagged off as unsafe. That being said, often certain carcinogens become difficult to avoid in daily life and consumption which is why there are permissible limits of ingestion that are suggested. In the case of the 'banned' curry powders, the presence of ethylene oxide in transgression of Singapore and Hong Kong's permissible limits is what commenced the fiasco.

Whatever the differences in permissible limits may be between India, Singapore and Hong Kong, why expose yourself to carcinogens at all, in situations where you can avoid it all together? This is where homemade curry powder recipes come into play. While it is not as convenient as ripping open a packet and simply spooning in flavour to your Desi concoctions, some little extra effort will affirmatively be a positive step in favour of your long-term health. Follow this simple 20-minute recipe from Swasthi's Recipes which will leave you with your very own packed jar of curry powder.

Ingredients: Dried red chillies - 2 to 3, coriander seeds - 2 tbsps, cumin seeds - 1 1/2 tbsps, fennel seeds - 1 1/2 tsps, fenugreek seeds - 1/2 tsp, mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp, black peppercorn - 1/2 tsp, turmeric - 1/4 tsp, any type of dal - 1 tbsp, curry leaves - 1 to 2 sprigs, ground ginger - 1/2 tsp, star anise - 1, green cardamoms - 5, cinnamon - 1 2-inch piece, cloves - 4.

Making your own curry powder is actually not that difficult

Method: Add the coriander seeds, dried red chillies, black pepper, star anise, cinnamon, cloves and cardamoms to a hot pan and roast till the coriander seeds start turning crunchy. Now add the cumin seeds and fennel seeds and roast till they start smelling aromatic. Keep this aside for cooling. Separately toast the fenugreek seeds till they change colour and start smelling nutty. To this add the mustard seeds and roast for just about a minute before taking them off heat. Roast the dal and curry leaves separately. Once everything is cool add to a blender with remaining untoasted ingredients and grind finely. Cool the powder and store in an airtight container.

Incorporating almost all of the major spices up for grabs in Indian markets, this recipe forms a great base for your cooking experiments. Feel free to tweak its flavour profile by playing around with the quantities of the ingredients.

Will you consider making your own curry powder?
Beer, often considered a humble beverage compared to wines and champagnes, also has a luxurious side to it. Some brew drinks command insanely high prices, owing to their age, rarity, unique ingredients, or extraordinary production processes. These liquid golds are clearly the price of perfection. Samuel Adams Utopias Beer

The Veil Brewing Co. Energy Energy Double Dry-Hopped IPA Beer is priced at 184,243

1. Holding the crown as the world's most expensive beer is The Veil Brewing Co. Energy Energy Double Dry-Hopped IPA Beer. This luxury beer from Virginia, USA, commands a price of INR 184,243 at Marty's Fine Wines. This IPA offers a unique blend of flavors, including citric, grassy hops, and tropical fruits making it a coveted collector's item.

Utopias Beer carries a price tag of 50,000 for a 750ml bottle

2. Samuel Adams Utopias Beer with its limited availability is truly a connoisseurs dream. This noncarbonated elixir boasts a complex flavor profile enriched with vanilla, leather, baked fruits, and rich caramel notes. The beer carries a price tag of INR 50,000 for a 750ml bottle at Beverly Hill Liquor & Wine, positioning it as a perfect choice for beer enthusiasts.

Tesla 'Gigabier' Beer comes at a price tag of 42000

3. Stepping into the realm of the unconventional luxury beers, Tesla 'Gigabier' Beer is a new entrant. This German beer, inspired by the Cybertruck, is a limited-edition offering with a price tag of 42000 INR. Its availability is restricted to Europe, adding to its allure.

Brouwerij Cantillon Drogone Lambic Beer is for approximately 20,000

4. Originating from Belgium, Brouwerij Cantillon Drogone Lambic Beer is another contender in the world of expensive brews. Available at Kogod Wine Merchant in San Diego for approximately INR 20,000, this liquid masterpiece offers a unique taste profile.

Goose Island Bourbon County Double Barrel Stout Beer is priced at 10,000 for a 750ml bottle

5. For those seeking a bold and intense experience, Goose Island Bourbon County Double Barrel Stout Beer, is another delight. With an opulent price of INR 10,000 for a 750ml bottle, the American gem's complex flavor profile, matured in bourbon barrels, contributes to its premium status.

These extraordinary beers represent the pinnacle of brewing, contributing to their exorbitant prices that only the affluent can afford. Each bottle is an art and each sip a divine luxury.
Cases of Zika virus are being detected in Pune, Maharashtra. There have been at least 66 cases of Zika virus infection in the city in the last two months. While four patients have died, the cause isn't the infection itself, a senior health official told PTI. The virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which is also known to transmit dengue and chikungunya infections. They usually bite their victims during the day. The Zika virus is caused by the Aedes mosquito(unsplash)

"The 66 cases include four deaths, but these deaths were not due to Zika but comorbidities the patients were suffering from such as cardiac issues, liver ailments, old age. Their reports came positive for the virus from the NIV (National Institute of Virology) after death," a health department official said.

The Zika virus is caused by the Aedes mosquito(unsplash)

What is Zika virus?

A mosquito-borne virus, it was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in a Rhesus macaque monkey followed by evidence of infection and disease in humans in other African countries in the 1950s. It has spread all through the world and is a recurring infection. Zika virus in pregnant women may cause microcephaly (a condition in which the head is significantly smaller due to abnormal brain development) in the foetus. "The PMC health department is conducting surveillance. As a precautionary measure, it is taking measures such as fumigation to curb the breeding of mosquitoes," the statement added.

What are the symptoms of Zika virus?

The World Health Organisation has listed the symptoms for the Zika virus. Most people infected with the virus do not develop any symptoms. Among those who do, they typically start being evident 3 to 14 days after the infection. It can present itself as a rash, fever, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise and headache. These symptoms usually last for around two to seven days. The diagnosis of the Zika virus requires laboratory confirmation.

With inputs from PTI
ISHA Foundation's spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev on Wednesday urged the India government to stand up and act at the earliest for the safety of minorities in Bangladesh as local media claimed that Hindu houses and business establishments were attacked by mobs while their valuables were also looted in at least 27 districts. Spiritual guru Sadhguru

Sadhguru's reaction comes even as yoga guru Ramdev on Tuesday condemned the targeted attacks on houses, temples and business establishments of Hindus in Bangladesh, and urged the Centre to do all it can diplomatically and politically to protect the Hindu minority in the neighbouring country.

Stating that Sadhguru's atrocities being perpetrated against Hindus is not just an internal matter of Bangladesh, Sadhguru said, Bharat cannot be Maha-Bharat if we do not stand up and act at the earliest to ensure the safety of minorities in our neighborhood.

What was part of this Nation unfortunately became neighborhood, but it is our responsibility to protect these people -who actually belong to this Civilization- from these shocking atrocities, Sadhguru wrote on social media platform X while sharing a news report with the headline Hindu houses, businesses attacked in 27 districts.

The Daily Star reported that in Lalmonirhat Sadar upazila in Bangladesh, a mob vandalised and plundered the house of Pradip Chandra Roy, secretary of Lalmonirhat Puja Udjapan Parishad, in Telipara village on Monday evening.

A mob also ransacked and looted a computer shop owned by Muhin Roy, a municipality member of the district's Puja Udjapan Parishad, on Thana road, it reported.

Besides, homes of four Hindu families were vandalised and looted in Chandrapur village in the district's Kaliganj upazila. In Hatibandha upazila's Purbo Sardubi village, 12 Hindu houses were torched last night, reports our district correspondent, the report claimed

Well-planned attacks: Ramdev

Ramdev termed these "well-planned" attacks by fundamentalist forces as shameful and dangerous and called India to do all it can to protect them. "I fear that India will need to remain vigilant so that the honour and dignity of the mothers, sisters and daughters of our Hindu brothers are not at stake. The entire country will have to stand with its minority Hindu brothers with full strength," Ramdev told news agency ANI.

Also read | Bangladesh president announces Nobel laureate Yunus as interim govt chief

Pointing to India's role in 1971 Bangladesh Liberation war, Ramdev said, "We helped create Bangladesh; if we can create Bangladesh, we must show our strength in protecting Hindus living there."

The co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved said some individuals in India were trying to incite unrest by raking up issues over caste, religion, and reservation. Such attempts he said are threatening the nation's unity and integrity. We must counter these efforts with strength, he added.

Also read | '9,000 students among 19,000 Indians stuck in Bangladesh': Jaishankar in Lok Sabha

Reports suggest extremist forces in Bangladesh targeting the Hindu minority by taking advantage of the emerging political situation. The country's Army is under the process of forming an interim government after former Prime minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and flee the country after anti-quota protests, that turned violent, demanded her resignation.

Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) has said around 200-300 Hindu homes and businesses have been vandalised since Hasina fled to India on Monday. Around 15-20 temples have been attacked and 40 people injured, the group told news agency Reuters.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar had expressed similar concerns on the safety of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh while making a statement on the developments there.
Bengaluru: A social activist on Tuesday filed a complaint with Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot seeking a probe against chief minister Siddaramaiah over his alleged role in irregularities in denotification of land allotted to the poor beneficiaries in Mysuru way back in 2008. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah (PTI)

The complaint, filed by right to information (RTI) activist Snehamayi Krishna, accused Siddaramaiah of misusing his position as a legislator to influence district officials in land-related decisions. While Siddaramaiah was yet to respond to the complaint, his office said the chief minister will address a press conference on the matter on Wednesday.

The development comes at a time when the state anxiously awaits the Raj Bhavans decision on another petition seeking sanction to prosecute Siddaramaiah in connection with the alleged Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment scam. Acting on the petition, the governor had on July 26 issued a show cause notice to the CM to submit his reply to the allegations against him within seven days.

The latest complaint alleged that then Congress MLA Siddaramaiah on August 10, 2008 wrote a letter to the district commissioner, requesting the de-notification of a plot of land that was acquired by the government in 1979. Following Siddaramaiahs letter, the complaint alleged, the district administration swiftly acted to de-notify the land within just 14 months, removing its acquired status.

The land in question, a 1.39-acre plot bearing survey number 205/2, is situated in Uttanahalli village near Mysuru city. Originally, this land was allocated as Ashraya sites for Below Poverty Line (BPL) beneficiaries. However, due to a lack of infrastructure, the intended beneficiaries did not build homes on the land, creating a loophole that authorities exploited to facilitate fraudulent activities, read the complaint letter, seen by HT, sent via post.

Besides, cheating the poor beneficiaries, the name and identity of the owner of the land was changed, by creating fake documents, by the officials concerned. While the land originally belonged to Kundabeeraiah, documents were created, to prove that [one] Marappa was the owner. Then the denotification was done on October 13, 2009, the complaint reads.

The activist urged the governor to order a formal investigation into the matter and file a case against Siddaramaiah and the involved officials. The complaint also urged the governor to instruct Mysuru district commissioner Lakshmikanth Reddy to conduct a thorough inquiry within 15 days and submit a report for further legal proceedings.

When sought a response to the complaint, the chief ministers officer said, Chief minister Siddaramaiah will address a press conference on Wednesday at 10.00 am at Mysuru Press Club.

The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), meanwhile, attacked the senior Congress leader over fresh allegations.

The situation of the chief minister is such that he cant get out of his house to show his face to the people. He has cancelled all his events today. This means he understands that his condition is bad and even his cabinet colleagues are pretending to support him, BJP state chief BY Vijayendra said. We are not aware of what action the governor will take, but we are certain that the chief minister is directly involved in all these scams. He should pay the price for it and offer his resignation.

This is the second complaint with Governor Gehlot, against the chief minister. Earlier, Bengaluru-based social activist and advocate TJ Abraham had sought the governors permission, to prosecute Siddaramaiah, in the alleged MUDA scam. On July 26, the governor had issued a show cause notice to Siddaramaiah asking him to reply within a week as to why prosecution sanction should not be granted. On August 1, the states council of ministers had strongly advised the governor to withdraw his notice and reject the activists petition.

People familiar with the matter in the Raj Bhavan indicated that Siddaramaiah may receive another notice from the governor seeking his explanation after the second complaint.
In a display of bravery, Hindus in Bangladesh thwarted an attack on a temple, said Kolkata ISKCON temple vice-president Radharaman Das on Wednesday. He said a temple was destroyed in the country on Tuesday and the attackers looted valuables and even ration. An aerial view shows anti-government protestors storming former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's palace in Dhaka. (AFP file photo)

Radharaman Das said on Wednesday a mob gathered near another temple but the Hindus stood against them, forcing the attackers to run away.

"Yesterday, the whole temple was destroyed, the deities were also damaged and they have taken every valuable thing from the temple...they did not even leave ration. Today, there was no attack. One of our temple managers told us that a mob had come but the area is Hindu-dominated and they stood against them and the attackers ran away," he said.

What Yogi Adityanath said on Bangladesh

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath said Hindus were being selectively targeted in Bangladesh. He called for unity to fight the threat against Sanatan Dharma.

Also read: Bangladesh crisis: 24 burnt alive as mob sets hotel on fire; Hindu homes, temples 'targeted' | Top updates

"Today, all the neighbours of India are burning. Temples are being demolished. Hindus are being selectively targeted and even then we are not trying to find those layers of history as to why such an unfortunate situation has arisen there," he said.

"We should remember that the society that does not learn from the mistakes of history, its bright future is also eclipsed. There is a need to work together again to deal with the threat to Sanatan Dharma. There is a need to fight together for this," he added.

Also read: Bangladesh: Hindu councillor shot dead; Kali temples vandalised during anti-govt protest, say reports

Several Hindu establishments have been attacked in Bangladesh amid violent clashes over quotas in government jobs.

On Tuesday, senior leader Sheikh Hasina quit as the prime minister of Bangladesh and fled to India. She is staying at a secure location in India and will likely move abroad after seeking asylum.

Also read: Hindu homes, temples targeted and looted in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina ouster, says minority group

The United Kindom reportedly told her she wouldn't be immune to any possible legal action should she choose to stay in the country.

Sheikh Hasina had to flee Dhaka in a military aircraft because of a threat to her life posed by the protestors. Over 300 people, including police personnel, died in weeks of protests.

In India, the Opposition has appealed to the Narendra Modi government to help the minorities in Bangladesh.

With inputs from ANI, PTI
As the Bangladeshi military cleared the decks for the formation of an interim government, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, tapped to lead the caretaker set-up, appealed for calm on Wednesday against the backdrop of continuing violence in parts of the country. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus waves to the media at Charles de Gaulle's airport in Roissy, north of Paris, Wednesday. (AP)

Former premier Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India on Monday after tens of thousands of protesters gathered in the capital Dhaka, demanding the ouster of her government. Despite her resignation, violence continued and the toll has risen to more than 450.

I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm. Please refrain from all kinds of violence, Yunus, the 84-year-old economist awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his work in providing small loans that lifted millions out of poverty, told the media before boarding a flight in Paris.

I am looking forward to going back home to see whats happening and how we can organise ourselves to get out of the trouble we are in, he said.

Hours earlier, Bangladesh army chief Gen Waker-uz-Zaman told a news conference in Dhaka that the interim government would be sworn in on Thursday night after Yunus returned to the country.

Read Here: What explains the Bangladesh crisis?

Flanked by the air force and navy chiefs, Zaman said Yunus had been chosen as chief adviser or head of the caretaker government after discussions between the three service chiefs and the president and leaders of political parties and the students who spearheaded the recent protests.

I have spoken to Prof YunusI got the impression he is eager to do this work and I am sure that he will be successful in taking us towards a good democratic process and we will benefit from it, Zaman said, speaking in Bengali.

He will return by Thursday afternoonthe three service chiefs will help him. I am sure all the political parties and student bodies will help and cooperate with him.

The caretaker government will have about 15 members, though it could be expanded if needed, he said.

No other details were available about the interim government, including the role of the military, though reports suggested Yunus could handle the crucial foreign affairs portfolio.

Opinion: The turmoil in Bangladesh and its implications for India

Zaman said he and other army commanders had assessed the situation across Bangladesh on Wednesday and that he expected things to return to normal in three to four days. He pledged that action would be taken against those who had indulged in violence and looting.

All those involved in crime and vandalism will be brought to justice, he said.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the appointment of a new police chief, Mohammad Mainul Islam, as part of a revamp of the security establishment. Zaman said the police force had become non-existent in recent days, creating a void that could not be filled by the military.

The ongoing restructuring of the police will once again make it a professional force and the three services will also work to ensure a good future, he said.

As violence spread across Bangladesh in recent days, there were numerous complaints from the public that the police had failed to rein in those responsible for vandalism and looting. The new police chief apologised for the conduct of officers during the protests and said there would be an impartial probe into killings.

We are committed to conduct a fair and impartial investigation into every recent killing of students, common people and the police, he told the media.

Read Here | Living on puffed rice: Indian truckers stuck at Indo-Bangladesh border

A day after the release of its leader Khaleda Zia from house arrest, the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) organised a massive rally in Dhaka and demanded elections within three months.

Zia, 78, addressed the gathering via a video link from a hospital bed and urged people to help rebuild Bangladesh. No destruction, no anger and no revenge, we need love and peace to rebuild our country, Zia said in her first speech since 2018, when she was convicted of corruption charges and jailed.

This victory brings us a new possibility to come back from the debris of plunder, corruption and bad politics. We need to reform this country into a prosperous one.

Earlier in the day, Yunus called on the people of Bangladesh to be calm and ready to build the country.

He said in a statement: If we take the path of violence everything will be destroyed.

Meanwhile, a Bangladeshi court on Wednesday acquitted Yunus of a labour conviction for which he was given a six-month jail sentence in January.

Yunus had travelled abroad after he was sentenced for the labour charge, for which he had been granted bail while pending an appeal.

I congratulate the brave students who took the lead in making our Second Victory Day possible, and to the people for giving your total support to them, Yunus said.

Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes.

Hasina, 76, who had been in power since 2009, resigned on Monday as hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Dhaka and demanded her resignation.
Patna, The Bihar government has urged the Centre to open a branch office of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority in Patna to boost the export of agricultural produce from the state. Bihar urges Centre to open APEDA branch office in Patna to boost agri exports from state

Speaking to reporters here, state Agriculture Minister Mangal Pandey on Wednesday said, "There is a need to further improve the export of agricultural produce from the state, including those that are GI-tagged."

"The NDA government in the state has requested the Centre to open a branch office of EDA in Patna for this purpose. Currently, Bihar coordinates with the EDA office in Varanasi. If an EDA branch office is opened in Patna, it will further boost the export of agricultural produce from Bihar," he asserted.

EDA is the premier body for the export of fresh vegetables and fruits. It provides the crucial interface between farmers, storehouses, packers, exporters, surface transport, ports, Railways, Airways, and all others engaged in exports to the international market.

Geographical Indication is a sign used on products originating from a specific geographical location with a distinct nature, quality and characteristics linked to that location. The GI-tagged agricultural produce from Bihar include Shahi Litchi, Bhagalpuri Zardalu mango, Katarni rice, Maricha rice and Magahi Paan .

"Even after a deficit in rainfall in July, paddy sowing has been almost completed in a majority of the districts. The districts where paddy sowing is quite satisfactory include Katihar, Sharsha, Kishanganj and Araria," he said.

"The state government has decided to provide diesel subsidy to farmers of areas that have faced acute rainfall deficit. In the 2024-25 fiscal, a total of 150 crore has been sanctioned by the government for the purpose," Pandey added.

The affected farmers will get a grant of 75 per litre of diesel for irrigating paddy crops with the help of diesel pump sets, he added.

Besides, in an attempt to save the crops from 'Ghodparas', popularly known as Nilgai , and wild boars in certain parts of the state, the state government has decided to allow action, including culling of the animals with the help of 13 hired professional shooters of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, Pandey said.

The districts where ghodparas and wild boars are in large numbers are Vaishali, East Champaran, West Champaran, Begusarai, Muzaffarpur, Gaya, and Buxar.

"The decision to kill ghodparas and wild boars in the affected areas will be taken jointly by the officials of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Agriculture, Panchayati Raj and Police departments. The role of the mukhiya is important in the entire process right from killing the animals to their burial," he said.

"According to a rough estimate, the total number of ghodparas in these districts is around 3 lakh, whereas the number of wild boars is around 67,255. These two animals move around in herds and destroy acres of crops in a day," he said, adding farmers have to guard their crops from these two animals in some parts of the state.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
One person was injured after an explosion at a cafe in South Kolkata on Wednesday, news agency PTI reported citing a local municipal councillor, Mousumi Das. The person with burn injuries has been shifted to hospital for treatment, she said. A boy who works at the cafe at Jodhpur Park sustained burn injuries after an explosion. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

"A boy who works at the cafe at Jodhpur Park sustained burn injuries after an explosion, which blew off the shutter and broke the windows. We initially thought it might have been caused by an LPG cylinder blast," said Mousumi Das.

Local media reported that the area was jolted by a loud noise around 11 am on Wednesday. Evidence of the disturbance was visible in the scattered items around the shop. Following the explosion, the cafe caught fire. The police and fire department responded promptly upon receiving the information. Firefighters began extinguishing the fire immediately and entered the cafe once the blaze was under control.

Anandabazar Patrika reported that the cafe had just opened for the day, so there were no customers present.

The cause of the explosion is still unclear and would be determined after a thorough investigation. Local residents speculate that it may not have been caused by a cylinder burst.

According to one resident, "It seems that gas may have leaked from the cylinder during the night. As the cafe remained closed, the gas accumulated. When the doors were opened in the morning, something might have ignited the gas."

However, the definitive cause will be established after the investigation, according to police sources.
The rival Left Democratic Front (LDF) and United Democratic Front (UDF) coalitions in Kerala are known to rarely agree with each other, but in the backdrop of the massive landslides in Wayanad, which killed over 220 people, the political differences have faded over the question of making donations to the Chief Ministers Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF). Volunteers carry boxes of rations to a relief camp, after landslides hit several villages in Wayanad district, in Meppadi, in the southern state of Kerala (REUTERS)

After the tragedy struck, the office of chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan had appealed to people worldwide to donate to the CMDRF to assist the state government in providing relief and rehabilitation to the kin of the victims and the survivors.

The CMs office stated that over 53 crore was received in the CMDRF in the space of a week.

In past years, the CMDRF has attracted controversy over allegations that funds from it collected for disaster management were being used for other purposes. Though complaints in this regard were filed with the Lokayukta, the bench dismissed them stating that there is no truth to the allegations.

Read Here: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan slams Union environment minister for false allegations on Wayanad landslides

On Wednesday, senior Congress leader AK Antony, who retired from active politics, told reporters, The disaster in Wayanad is one of the most unprecedented in Keralas history. There was a landslide also in neighbouring Vilangad. My appeal to everyone is that rising above political differences, we must all contribute generously to the CMDRF to help with the rehabilitation of the survivors.

He added, When I was an MP, I have contributed more during the time of floods. But now, I am not capable of donating a big amount. Anyway, I have handed over a cheque of 50,000 to the CMDRF. Everyone must donate whatever they can for Wayanad.

Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan, a staunch critic of CM Vijayan and the LDF government, also donated 1 lakh to the CMDRF and announced that all UDF MLAs in the state assembly will hand over cheques of one month of their salaries to the distress fund.

The LDF leadership has also directed its MLAs and MPs to donate one month of their salary for Wayanad victims and survivors.

Satheesan said, More than the BJP, we go head to head with the LDF and the government on most issues. But I feel this is not the time to speak politics or criticise the government. We cannot even think about it right now. We can criticise the government later. Right now, we are constantly speaking to the CM and the ministers on how we can help the government machinery on tackling the issue.

At the same time, Satheesan added that funds in the CMDRF should be constantly audited and orders be issued that the money not be used for other purposes.
Former Union minister and Congress leader Salman Khurshid courted controversy by saying what is happening in neighbouring Bangladesh can happen in India too. Former Union minister Salman Khurshid (HT File Photo)

Speaking at the launch of academician Mujibur Rehman's book Shikwa-e-Hind: The Political Future of Indian Muslims, Khurshid said, Everything may look normal in Kashmir. Everything may look normal here. We may be celebrating the victory, although of course some people believe that that victory or that success of 2024 was perhaps only marginal, perhaps a lot more needs to be done.

"The fact remains that under the surface there is something," he said.

"What's happening in Bangladesh can happen here... the spread in our country prevents things blowing up in the manner in which they've blown up in Bangladesh," he added.

His remarks came after violent anti-government protests rocked Bangladesh, leading to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Protestors stormed the PM's palace as Hasina fled the country, flying to New Delhi and exploring her options for political asylum.

BJP leaders slammed the Congress party and Khurshid for his remarks, dubbing him an anarchist leader.

BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla said, "Congress party says that it stands with the government of India as far as the issue of Bangladesh is concerned because this is not a political issue and no politics should be done but their leader Salman Khurshid tried to provoke and incite the people of India."

BJP MP Sambit Patra attacked Rahul Gandhi for his foreign visits, saying that the remarks by Khurshid reveal the real intentions behind his trips abroad.

He said it during a book release. From Congress' side, he warned that protests and arson could break out in India; what happened in Bangladesh could happen in India. So many other leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, were present there and they in a way supported that statement. Rahul Gandhi, whenever he went abroad, used to meet many people secretly and speak against India; now we are getting to know what his intention was, Patra said.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who was also at the public meeting where Khurshid made his statements on Bangladesh, said that he could not explain what the Congress leader meant but the larger message that Bangladesh has given is about the importance of democracy and free and fair elections.

(With inputs from PTI)
New Delhi, Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud on Wednesday said the Constitution is a "powerful tool" to curb disparities and it creates institutions and structures which are meant to guard against inequality. Constitution is powerful tool to curb disparities: CJI Chandrachud

He said the Constitution provides for checks and balances within these institutions and also stipulates institutional priorities and obligations towards citizens of the country.

Addressing a gathering at the 13th convocation ceremony and founder's day of the O P Jindal Global University here, the CJI exhorted the students to spot injustice in all its facets in the world around them.

"The Constitution is a powerful tool to curb such disparities. It creates institutions and structures that are meant to guard against inequalities - apparent or invisible," he said.

"In that sense, it performs a horizontal function  in that it regulates the inter-institutional relationships; and a vertical function - in so far as it regulates the relationship between the State and the people. But this is not all. The Constitution does a lot more than that, it entrenches these values into our social fabric," Justice Chandrachud said.

He said constitutional theorists attribute stability of democracies to stability of their founding principles.

"However, something we take for granted in our democracy is the stability that our Constitution affords to our civic lives. Constitutional longevity speaks to the wisdom of our framers who were prescient enough to incorporate grounding elements into the Constitution without making it into a rigid normative, and thus a brittle document," he said.

The CJI said the Constitution, while being a sturdy foundation for our democracy, is also sufficiently flexible.

"For instance, we may understand that inequality is unjust. But we may have diverse ideas of what equality entails. Does similarity of treatment always promote equality or does it sometimes stray us further away? Does the law only target manifest inequality or inequality that lurks in shrouds of protective discrimination and non-interference?" he said.

He said for instance, the law proscribes discrimination on the ground of sex.

The CJI said a law that prohibits women employees to work in certain establishments, apprehending threats to their security is not prima facie malignant.

"Workplace security is a rather laudable legislative objective. However, notice how a seemingly beneficial law effectively clips the wings of women who seek to be employed in some of these establishments. Such a law would not pass constitutional muster because it furthers stereotypical assumptions and perpetuates gender roles in a workplace," Justice Chandrachud said.

He said in reality, justice means different things in different contexts and it takes a compassionate eye to spot injustices around them.

The CJI said the bottom line was that "we live among many such complexly stacked inequalities".

"And there are no straightjacket or strictly legal solutions to some of these problems. The solutions, like the issues themselves are nuanced. They require a compassionate, sincere professional solution, which you are all now capable of devising," he said.

He said problems like climate change, information gap and unequal distribution of basic resources do not have clear solutions neatly boxed in one professional domain or institution and their answers lie in exploration and cooperation.

"In finding the best solutions, we must not be dictated only by concerns of expediency, rationality and pragmatism. Finer strands of accessibility, inclusivity and diversity must be woven into the decisions we make," the CJI said.

He said our social order was not necessarily perfect in all respects and sometimes, "our present problems may compound with underlying imperfections".

"This entrenches pre-existing inequalities. Their impact is not only imminent and harmful, but also disparate," he said.

Justice Chandrachud also implored the students to spend their days and lives not only as ambassadors of their alma mater, but also as the voices of reason in a clutter of noise.

"The danger to our societies today is the clutter of noise and we need the voice of reason among the voices of unbridled passion," he said.

"Take it from a judge who sits through long and cognitively taxing hours of courtroom-conversation, a voice of reason and sincerity resonates loud and clear. You must incorporate the spirit of the Constitution in all that you do," he said.

Justice Chandrachud told the students that each one of them possesses the caliber to bring transformative change in their areas of expertise.

"The first step in recognising that is seeing yourselves as stakeholders in the diversity and well-being of society," he said, adding, "Even as Supreme Court judges, we spend all our time learning, unlearning and relearning different ways to approach the law and different interpretations".

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
"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. " 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 lack of prosecution sanction against 32 public servants, including former Bihar chief minister Lalu Prasad, has held up the proceedings in land-for-jobs scam  which dates back to 2004-09 when Prasad was the railway minister  even after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a final charge sheet in the case around two months ago. RJD leaders Lalu Prasad and Tejashwi Yadav (Santosh Kumar/HT Photo)

Irked by the inaction, a Delhi court in a strongly worded order last week directed the respective competent authorities to decide the sanction by August 20.

On June 7, CBI filed its final charge sheet  fourth since October 2022  naming 78 accused, including Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad, his wife and former Bihar CM Rabri Devi, son Tej Pratap Yadav, daughter Hema Yadav, former aide Bhola Yadav, a former personal secretary, 29 railways officials, 37 candidates and six private persons.

The federal agency has invoked the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections related to criminal conspiracy along with cheating and forgery among others, and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act against the accused.

It is alleged in the case that appointment of substitutes in Group-D jobs were done in the railways during 2004-09, violating the recruitment norms and procedures of the Indian Railways. The candidates, directly or through their immediate family members, allegedly sold land to the family members of Lalu at discounted rates of up to one-fourth or one-fifth of prevailing market rates.

Taking a strong stance at delay in the proceedings in the case, special judge, CBI (MP/MLA case), Vishal Gogne on July 31 directed: ...the respective competent authorities shall decide the question of sanction by the next date of hearing (August 20) before this court failing which an authorised official from the office of the said competent authority shall appear before this court in order to explain the delay.

People familiar with the development said the competent authority for Lalus sanction for prosecution is the Union home ministry while the ministry of railways has to clear prosecution sanction for 29 railway officials accused in the case.

For a court to take cognizance of a charge sheet against public servants, sanction under section 19 of Prevention of Corruption Act is mandatory. The law states that the concerned administrative ministries or departments must convey their decision on sanction within three months. Only in the cases where consultation is required from the attorney general or any law officer in the office of AG, an extension of one month is provided.

This tendency of keeping CBIs prosecution sanction requests pending hinders our anti-corruption work as the investigations are delayed, and as a result, trials in courts are held-up. This needs to be fast-tracked, a CBI official said, requesting anonymity.

The federal agencys action in corruption cases is already hit because of withdrawal of general consent under Section 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act by several state governments. The general consent withdrawal means CBI cannot suo motu operate in those states and it must send a request every time to the state to initiate a corruption probe.

Since 2018, West Bengal, Telangana, Punjab, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Kerala, Jharkhand and Tamil Nadu have withdrawn the general consent for CBI.
The Delhi police apprehended a boy for stealing his mother's gold to buy his girlfriend an Apple iPhone and to fund her birthday party. The incident took place in Delhi's Najafgarh. Apple iPhone 15 ProMax phones are shown in an Apple store. (Representational)(AP file photo)

The boy's mother had complained after her gold was found missing. A pair of gold earrings, a gold ring and a chain were missing. They were recovered from two goldsmiths.

The police have arrested Kamal Verma, one of the goldsmiths.

What did the police say?

"On August 3, an incident of house theft was reported by a woman in which she reported the theft of two gold chains, one pair of gold earrings and one gold ring from her house on August 2, by an unknown person between 8 am to 3 pm," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh said.

During the investigation, it was found in the CCTV footage that no one came inside the house or went out. The team then focussed on the role of an insider in the crime. They later found that the minor son had been missing since the crime.

The team started gathering information and questioned his school friends.

"Our team got to know that he (accused) had purchased a new iPhone worth 50,000. The team conducted many raids on his hideouts at Dharampura, Kakrola and Najafgarh, but every time he managed to escape. On Tuesday, a tipoff was received that the juvenile would come to his home at about 6 pm, following which a trap was laid near the house," DCP Singh told PTI.

The police later recovered an Apple mobile from his possession.

"The juvenile said that he is a student of Class 9 and studying in a private school in Najafgarh. His father died due to illness and he did not have any interest in studies and scored average marks," the DCP said.

His friends told the police that he was in a relationship with a girl studying in the same class, he said.

"To make a stunning impression on his girlfriend on her birthday, he approached his mother to give him money but due to limited resources, she denied it and advised him to concentrate on his studies. Angered over the denial, he decided to steal money from his house," the officer said.

With inputs from PTI
New Delhi, The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to grant bail to a suspected smuggler in a case concerning an alleged conspiracy to smuggle high-quality fake Indian currency and gold into the country. Delhi HC refuses bail to 'smuggler' in fake currency circulation case

The court emphasised that the circulation of fake currency impinges upon the country's economic security and could have a disastrous effect on the economy, and the penetration of such networks can pose a grave challenge for investigating agencies.

Dismissing an appeal filed by Abdul Wahid against a trial court order rejecting his bail plea, a bench headed by Justice Prathiba M Singh said the evidence on record prima facie pointed to his involvement in "facilitating the circulation of high-quality counterfeit Indian currency".

Wahid was arrested by the National Investigation Agency on March 4, 2022 in a case under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities Act and the Indian Penal Code.

"Circulation of fake currency impinges upon the economic security of the country, and such circulation could have a disastrous effect on the economy. Persons who may be involved in circulation of fake currency operate through several back-channel networks, which span across countries. They do not use usual channels of communication and fake currency is usually introduced into the market in an extremely clandestine manner. Penetration of networks related to fake currency can pose a grave challenge for the investigating agency as well," the bench, also comprising Justice Amit Sharma, said.

The court noted that at this stage, only two witnesses have been examined in the trial, which has been going on, and the 29-year-old appellant has been in custody for two years.

"Considering the maximum punishment prescribed under section 18 of the UA and the present stage of the trial, this court is not inclined to grant bail to the appellant at this stage. The impugned order of the learned trial court dated February 28, 2024 does not warrant any interference from this court. The appeal is, accordingly, dismissed," the court concluded.

It also said the accused's claim that he was unaware of the currency being dealt with was fake will have to be established in the trial court.

"The stand of the appellant that he is merely involved in the business of import/export of burkhas and other garments and gold would have to be raised as a defence to be established before the trial court," it said.

"There are sufficient grounds at this stage to believe that the allegations against the appellant are prima facie true," the court stated.

According to NIA officials, the case pertains to the January 12, 2022 seizure of Fake Indian Currency Notes with a face value of 10 lakh and 175 grams of gold worth 8.5 lakh at Terminal-3 of Delhi's Indira Gandhi International airport by customs officials from Mohammad Shahjan.

It was alleged that the appellant, who ran a money-exchange counter, was facilitating the two other accused Mohammad Shahjan and Amir-Ul-Haq in smuggling FICNs and other counterfeit articles from Dubai to India.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
The Sixth Additional District and Sessions Court of Dakshina Kannada district on Tuesday acquitted all 39 people who were accused in the 2012 Mangaluru homestay attack case. The ruling, delivered by judge M Kantharaj, was delivered citing a lack of evidence against the accused. The attackers, led by Hindu Jagarana Vedike leader Subhash Padil, claimed they were acting to prevent alleged illicit activities (File photo)

The incident involved members of the Hindu Vigilance Forum storming the Morning Mist Homestay near Padil, Mangaluru on July 28, 2012. The attackers, led by Hindu Jagarana Vedike leader Subhash Padil, claimed they were acting to prevent alleged illicit activities.

During the attack, which was captured by three video journalists, the activists allegedly assaulted 13 degree students, both male and female, who were celebrating the birthday of B Vijay, an employee at an event management firm. The footage, which showed the activists tearing the victims clothes, went viral on social media, causing national outrage.

The Mangaluru Rural Police filed a charge sheet against 44 people, initially including journalist Naveen Surinje, who had charges against him withdrawn by the state government on January 4, 2018. Over the years, three of the accused passed away, and one minor was acquitted by the Juvenile Justice Board, leaving 39 defendants to face trial.

Despite testimonies from the complainant, Vijay, and one of the female victims, who detailed the incident in court, the victims were unable to positively identify their assailants.

The prosecution presented video clips and photographs as evidence; however, the court deemed them insufficient for conviction.

In his verdict, judge Kantharaj stated that the evidence presented did not conclusively prove the guilt of the accused, leading to their acquittal. The defence team, led by attorneys Shambhu Sharma and Kishore Kumar, emphasised the lack of clear identification and substantial evidence.
A 37-year-old driver from Tamil Nadu was rescued even as the truck he was driving was swept away following the collapse of a bridge across the Kali River at Karwar in Karnatakas Uttara Kannada district around 2 am on Wednesday. The bridge across the Kali River in Karwar collapsed around 2 am. (Sourced)

Balu Murugan, the driver, managed to break the windshield of the truck, which was en route to Karnatakas Hubballi from Goa. He climbed onto the vehicle and caught the attention of a patrolling police officer. Murugan was rescued and rushed to a Karwar hospital.

Uttara Kannada deputy commissioner Krishna Priya said Murugan was in a stable condition and will be sent home once he is fit to travel. She added the Kali River remained swollen after heavy rains since last week. Priya said the district administration was prepared to address potential flooding.

Uttara Kannada Police superintendent Narayan M said a section of the bridge, which connected Karnataka with Goa, fell along with the truck. He added the remaining two sections collapsed within the next 10 minutes.

Police and expert swimmers were investigating whether more vehicles might have fallen before the truck from Tamil Nadu went down.

Narayan M said traffic on another bridge over the Kali River to Goa was halted on Wednesday morning. There is no significant traffic issue as there are alternative routes to Goa, he said.

Police have been deployed to monitor traffic on all bridges in the area to prevent congestion. Traffic on the bridges is being controlled by restricting the number of vehicles allowed at one time, said Narayan M.
Ahmedabad: The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Wednesday said it carried out two significant raids in the state and neighbouring Maharashtra, seizing drugs worth more than Rs.800 crore. Officials said that the team, during the raid, also arrested four individuals allegedly involved in the production and distribution of banned narcotic substances. (Representative Photo)

On August 5 and 6, the ATS team conducted a raid at a mephedrone manufacturing unit in Thane district, Maharashtra, and another at a pharmaceutical factory in the Dahej industrial area of Bharuch district, Gujarat, said officials. The operations were based on specific intelligence inputs and were executed with precision by the ATS teams.

According to the officials, a team of ATS raided an apartment in Thanes Bhiwandi town and arrested two brothersMohammad Yunus Shaikh (41) and his brother Mohammad Adil Shaikh (34).

The duo were found with nearly 800 kilograms of liquid mephedrone (commonly known as MD) valued at Rs.800 crore in the international market, said ATS officials.

The ATS said that the duo had rented the apartment around eight months ago to manufacture mephedrone using various chemicals. Their initial attempt failed, but the subsequent batch was almost ready for conversion into powder form when the raid took place.

The ATSs investigation into the Shaikh brothers activities began after a previous operation on July 18, when a mephedrone manufacturing unit in the Palsana area of Surat city was busted, during which the drugs and raw materials worth Rs.51.4 crore were seized, and three persons were arrested.

During interrogation, these individuals revealed that the Shaikh brothers were part of the drug cartel, leading to the successful raid in Bhiwandi, according to officials.

In the second operation, the ATS raided a pharmaceutical unit in Dahej GIDC and apprehended two individuals with liquid tramadol worth Rs.31 crore.

The arrested individuals were identified as Pankaj Rajput and Nikhil Kapuria. Rajput, who worked as the chief chemist at the factory, and Kapuria, the owner of a chemical trading firm, were found producing tramadol, an opioid pain medication classified as a psychotropic substance under the NDPS Act in 2018.

Investigations revealed that Kapuria had convinced Rajput to manufacture tramadol, sourcing raw materials from a firm in Ahmedabad owned by one Harshad Kukadiya. After preparing the liquid Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API), they sent it to Kukadiya, who then transported it to a factory in Gandhinagar for tablet production, said ATS officials.

Efforts are underway to apprehend other individuals involved in this racket, said officials.

On July 29, the Customs department seized 6.8 million tramadol tablets worth Rs.110 crore from two export containers at Mundra port in Gujarats Kutch district.
London: An atomic bomb which loosens the pent-up forces of the universe equal to over 20,000 tons of T.N.T., has 2,000 times the blast power of the British grand slam bomb and represents one of the greatest scientific advances of history, has been dropped on Japan. HT This Day: August 8, 1945 -- Atomic bomb assault against Japan completed (HT)

US war secretary Henry L Stimson today predicted that the new atomic bomb would prove of tremendous aid in shortening the war with Japan. Mr Stimson made this statement as the army reported an impenetrable cloud of smoke and dust had cloaked Hiroshima after it was hit by the new weapon from the air.

Reliable military quarters in Washington report that complete plans for an all-out atom bomb assault against Japan are ready for immediate implementation, Reuters Washington correspondent cabled early this morning. Meanwhile, they are awaiting complete reconnaissance report on the effect of the first such missile which crashed down early on Monday morning on Hiroshima, fortified port and army base on west Honshu island, on which Tokyo stands.

President Truman disclosed in a White House statement yesterday (already published in these columns) the terrific destructive power packed into the missile which was dropped during the day on Hiroshima, an important Japanese army base, 190 miles west of Kobe. He said the bomb added a new and revolutionary increase in the destruction of the Japanese homeland. This awful bomb is the answer, the President said, to Japans failure to accept the Potsdam demand that she surrender unconditionally at once or face utter destruction.

The product of 2,000,000,000 dollars spent in research and production the greatest scientific gamble in history-the atomic bomb had been, said the President, one of the most closely guarded secrets of the war.

Japan is being told about the atomic bomb. President Trumans epoch-making announcement threatening her with a rain of ruin from the air it being broadcast repeatedly from powerful medium-wave transmitters m the Marianas as well as from shortwave transmitters along the United States western seaboard, says Reuters special correspondent.

Dramatized in the leaflet form, details of the most terrible missile in history will soon be scattered over the Japanese home islands. Indeed, the United States nerve war experts think that the psychological effect of the bomb may be even more devastating than the physical.

Three years work

An accurate assessment of the damage inflicted by the bomb is not yet available. However, the War Department said that as soon as details of its effectiveness were learned the Department would release them.

Mr Stimson said that the explosive power of the bomb was such as to stagger imagination. He added that scientists were confident of developing even more powerful atomic bombs.

Mr Stimson said that security requirements did not permit disclosure of exact methods of producing the bomb or the nature of its action. The development of the bomb was the culmination of three years work by Allied scientists, industry, labour and military forces. He was convinced that Japan would not be in a position to use a similar weapon.

The possibility of using atomic energy in the manufacture of weapons was brought to the late President Roosevelts attention late in 1939, Mr Stimson said. The Chief Executive named a committee to investigate and by June 1942 sufficient progress had been made to warrant a big expansion of the project.

Three plants to produce bombs started in December 1942. A special laboratory had been established near Santa Fe directed by Dr J. Robert Oppenheimer whose genius and inspiration, Mr Stimson said, were largely responsible for the development of the bomb.

A hunt for the atomic bomb began right after the war got under way when a German mathematician, a Jewish woman named Lize Meitner, put forward the theory that a phenomenon exhibited by that rare metal, uranium, which had puzzled scientists for years, was really an explosion of the atoms of uranium. Within two weeks after she published this calculation the great physics laboratories of the United States, England and Germany had verified her prediction. She was banished from Germany shortly afterwards, but Hitler put all available physicists at work on atomic bombs and atomic power at the Keiser Wilhelm Institute in Berlin.

What the scientists found was that the rare form of uranium known as 2-3-5 uranium, when bombarded with low electrical energy (in the form of neutral rays), would react by splitting some of its atoms almost squarely into two.

Up to that time no atom had ever been really smashed. A few electrons or other particles had been forced out by smashing rays which used to be either X-rays or rays made of atomic particles.

When uranium atoms split into two, as the German woman predicted, a whole new world opened for atomic power. The energy released by an atom breaking into two was thousands of times greater than the energy when just a few pieces were chipped off.

This new situation started the United States and Britain on a hunt for atomic power and atomic bombs and even before the United States entered the war all this atomic work was placed under censorship. Since then not a single development has been published until todays bomb.
Yoga guru Ramdev said India must stand in solidarity of Hindu minorities in neighbouring Bangladesh and take measures to protect them, news agency ANI reported. He condemned reports of targeted attacks on houses, temples and other business establishments run by the country's Hindu population. Baba Ramdev(Reuters file photo)

Ramdev termed these well-planned attacks by fundamentalist forces as shameful and dangerous and called India to do all it can to protect them. "I fear that India will need to remain vigilant so that the honour and dignity of the mothers, sisters and daughters of our Hindu brothers are not at stake. The entire country will have to stand with its minority Hindu brothers with full strength," the yoga guru told ANI.

Also read | Bangladesh president announces Nobel laureate Yunus as interim govt chief

Pointing to India's role in 1971 Bangladesh Liberation war, Ramdev said, "We helped create Bangladesh; if we can create Bangladesh, we must show our strength in protecting Hindus living there."

The co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved said some individuals in India were trying to incite unrest by raking up issues over caste, religion, and reservation. Such attempts he said are threatening the nation's unity and integrity. We must counter these efforts with strength, he added.

Reports suggest extremist forces in Bangladesh targeting the Hindu minority by taking advantage of the emerging political situation. The country's Army is under the process of forming an interim government after former Prime minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and flee the country after anti-quota protests, that turned violent, demanded her resignation.

Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) has said around 200-300 Hindu homes and businesses have been vandalised since Hasina fled to India on Monday. Around 15-20 temples have been attacked and 40 people injured, the group told news agency Reuters.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar had expressed similar concerns on the safety of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh while making a statement on the developments there.

Pointing out to such attacks, West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has justified the need for recently implemented Citizenship amendment act, that grants citizenship to persecuted religious minorities from India's neighbouring countries.

(With ANI inputs)
India pulled out all non-essential staff and families of officials of the high commission in Dhaka on Wednesday as a precautionary measure in view of the continuing violence in Bangladesh though the mission remains functional, people familiar with the matter said. An aerial view shows anti-government protestors storming former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina's palace in Dhaka. (AFP Photo)

The move came two days after former premier Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday because of nationwide public demonstrations seeking the ouster of her Awami League government. The army has taken responsibility for running the country till an interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is formed.

The return of non-essential staff and families from the Indian high commission in Dhaka has been done on a voluntary basis through a commercial flight. The non-essential staff and families returned this [Wednesday] morning, one of the people cited above said on condition of anonymity.

The people said all diplomats remain in the high commission, which continues to be functional. The missions helplines are also functional and the numbers are +8801958383679, +8801958383680 and +8801937400591.

Since Hasina quit, Indian high commissioner Pranay Verma and other diplomats in Dhaka have been engaged in hectic efforts to engage with authorities in Bangladesh, especially the military, the people said. The Indian side has also conveyed to military authorities the need to protect Indian nationals and Bangladeshs minority communities, they said.

Despite Bangladesh Army chief Gen Waker-uz-Zaman calling for peace and order in the wake of Hasinas resignation on Monday, violence  mostly directed against the Awami League partys leaders, workers and supporters  has continued in many parts of the country. However, a sense of normalcy has returned to Dhaka.

A mob torched a hotel owned by an Awami League politician in Jashore, killing 24 people, while an Awami League activist was among three people beaten to death in Khulna. Film producer Selim Khan and his actor son Shanto Khan were killed in Chattogram as violence roiled several parts of Bangladesh on Tuesday.

Nearly 140 people died in violence after Hasinas resignation, taking the death toll since last month to almost 450.

Besides the high commission in Dhaka, India has assistant high commissions in Chittagong, Khulna, Rajshahi and Sylhet. While informing Parliament on developments in Bangladesh on Tuesday, external affairs minister S Jaishankar said India was deeply concerned about the status of the countrys minorities following attacks on their businesses and places of worship.

Though several groups have taken steps to protect minorities, Indias concerns will remain till law and order is restored, he said. He called on Bangladeshi authorities to provide security for Indias missions, which will resume normal functioning once the situation stabilises.

There were about 19,000 Indian nationals, including 9,000 students, in Bangladesh when the protests began last month. The bulk of the students have returned home in recent weeks.

The Hindu minority makes up about 8% of Bangladeshs population of almost 170 million.
Actor and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kangana Ranaut on Tuesday targeted West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee over her remarks on the political crisis in Bangladesh. Bollywood actor and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Kangana Ranaut.(ANI)

Referring to the chief minister's comments in which she had talked about supporting the Centre's stance towards Bangladesh, the actor-turned-politician remarked that Mamata Banerjee has finally acknowledged West Bengal as part of India.

Mamta didi also remembered the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi), finally acknowledging Bengal as a part of India for the first time in her life and supporting the Centre, she wrote in a post on social media X.

Wow! What a sight. She knows she will be the first one to be targeted as those Bangladeshi refugees, who have been kept as a vote bank, will line upBut Mamta didi can be rest assured she will be protected in Ram Rajya. Nothing to worry, the country is in safe hands.

Hours after Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left the country amid major protests on Monday, Mamata Banerjee had issued an appeal to the people of West Bengal to maintain peace and avoid provocation.

She had also said that her state government will support whatever decision the Centre takes in the matter.

"I would appeal to the people of Bengal to maintain peace. Do not pay attention to any kind of rumours. This is a matter between two countries, we will support whatever decision the central government takes," Mamata Banerjee had said.

Bangladesh crisis

Sheikh Hasina resigned as Bangladesh's prime minister and fled the country on Monday.

Hasina,who was in power for 15 years, quit as public anger grew over the death of more than 300 people in a crackdown by her administration on a movement that began as protests against a controversial quota in government jobs and transformed into a mass mobilisation demanding her resignation.

On Tuesday, Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus was appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government.

The decision was made in a meeting of President Mohammed Shahabuddin with chiefs of the three services and a 13-member delegation of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement at Bangabhaban.

Yunus won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his anti-poverty campaign through the Grameen Bank, a mode; which was replicated across continents.

Also Read | Bangladesh president announces Nobel laureate Yunus as interim govt chief
New Delhi, The Automatic Train Protection system, Kavach, will become operational on the 3000-km long Mumbai-Delhi and Delhi-Kolkata rail routes by March next year, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Wednesday. Kavach on Mumbai-Delhi-Kolkata route to be operational by March 2025: Railway Minister

Vaishnaw said the Kavach advanced version 4.0 was approved by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation on July 17 and now large-scale installation will begin soon.

The Kavach 4.0 will be able to tackle all kind of communication challenges in all geographical conditions such as hilly terrain, forest, coastal and desert areas, among others, the minister said during a press briefing.

It will also bring a uniformity in the system and the upgradation of the latest version will go on simultaneously in all those places where the previous version of Kavach was installed, he added.

"The railway ministry has also approved the installation of Kavach on 10,000 locomotives in another two years. After that, the remaining 10,000 locomotives will be taken up in a phased manner," Vaishnaw said.

He added, "Besides, in another important development, the ministry has decided to invite tender for 3300 km-long Mumbai-Chennai and Chennai-Kolkata route as well as about 5000 km-long all automatic signalling sections. I think the tender process will be completed in another couple of months and installation will start from October 2024 onwards."

Speaking about the enhancement in the installation capacity, Vaishnaw said when the installation work was initially started, the annual capacity was 1,000 km and today it has been ramped up to 4,000 km in a year.

"With the current installation capacity, Kavach will become operational on the Mumbai-Chennai and Chennai-Kolkata route as well as all automatic signalling sections in another three years, the railway minister said.

He added that three companies have already been given approval for for the Kavach implementation work and two more companies are in the advanced stages of the approval process.

Once the two new companies join the installation process, our annual capacity will be enhanced from 4,000 km a year to about 5,500 km a year, he said.

Explaining the installation process of other components of Kavach such as station Kavach, RFID tags on track, and putting up signalling towers, Vaishnaw said that these will happen simultaneously.

"The LiDAR survey of about 8,000 stations is going to be completed by January next year. We will be utilizing the optical fiber cable laid along the track by the Railtel for communication purposes. Besides, the communication towers along the track and RFID tags on the track will be installed on a mission mode in another two and a half years," the minister said, adding that the station Kavach is the most complex and complicated process.

Elaborating on the limitations of Kavach, the railway minister said that Kavach will not help in detection of cracks or any other obstruction on track but it will take care of the issues related to error in the working of the loco pilots.

What has come out from all trials is that Kavach will prevent red-signal jumps of trains in 100 per cent cases, Vaishnaw said. He added that Kavach will not help in enhancing a train's speed which primarily depends on track upgradation along with its fencing.

According to Vaishnaw, Kavach automatically controls the train speed and can apply the brakes if necessary to prevent accidents.

"ATP system is a critical component of modern railway signalling systems, providing a safeguard against human error and ensuring the safe operation of trains," the railway minister said.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has written to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, saying Delhis senior-most minister Atishi will hoist the national flag at the Independence Day function on August 15, officials aware of the matter said on Wednesday. Delhi minister Atishi. (PTI)

The officials said Atishi would hoist the flag in the absence of Kejriwal, who has been in prison following his arrest over alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped 2021-22 excise policy.

Atishi was appointed minister in early 2023 following deputy chief minister Manish Sisodias resignation weeks after his arrest in the excise policy case.

The Delhi chief minister hoists the flag annually on Independence Day at Chhatrasal Stadium. Kejriwal has been hoisting the flag at the Delhi government function since 2015.

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21. He has since been in jail barring the period when he was out on interim bail during the Lok Sabha elections in May.
Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha leader of opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and Union minister JP Nadda engaged in a war of words on Wednesday over the issue of revamped school curriculum in central government institutions. Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. (sansad tv)

Slamming the BJP government, Kharge, who is also the Congress president, blamed the BJP and RSS of meddling with school curriculum, in connection with reports claiming that the Preamble of the Constitution has been dropped from some NCERT books.

The BJP government first removed Baba Saheb and Mahatma Gandhis statues, and now the Constitution is being meddled with, Kharge said.

He was referring to the relocation of the Gandhi and Ambedkar statues in the Parliament complex to a different location when the new Lok Sabha was convened a month ago. The Centre dismissed the opposition uproar and said the statues were moved to a new location called Prerna Sthal (inspiration point).

I want to warn you that that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated by the people of India, Kharge said.

Nadda, who is the leader of the house, hit back by bringing up the excesses meted out by the Congress government during the Emergency.

Stressing that the Constitution Day, celebrated on November 26, was declared under the Modi government, he said, I want to remind everyone that the Constitution was attacked on 25 June 1975 (Emergency), and more than 90 times they dismissed the elected government. Your government put 1,25,000 people in jail for two years.
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president and former Telangana information technology minister KT Rama Rao on Tuesday debunked the claim of the Congress government that the state had witnessed a 11.3% surge in IT exports during 2023-24. KTR pointed out that the state government was quoting the cumulative figures of IT exports in Telangana, since its formation 10 years ago. (File photo)

KTR was referring to a statement made by present state IT minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu on Sunday that for the financial year ending March 31, 2024, Telanganas total IT sector exports reached 2,68,233 crore, reflecting an 11.2% increase from the previous year.

This growth rate significantly outpaces the national average growth of 3.3%. By the end of June 2024, the states IT exports increased further to 2,69,958 crore. The sector now supports approximately 9,46,285 IT professionals, with a net addition of 40,570 jobs in FY24, representing a 4.5% increase in employment, Sridhar Babu said.

The BRS working president, however, pointed out that the state government was quoting the cumulative figures of IT exports in Telangana, since its formation 10 years ago.

He cited statistics wherein the IT exports from Telangana, which were worth 57,706 crore in 2022-23 had dipped sharply to 26,948 crore in 2023-24. As for IT employment, 1,27,594 new jobs were created in 2022-23, while in 2023-24, this had fallen to 40,285, he said, in a post on X.

Sridhar Babus statement, however, said the achievement made by Telangana was significant in a year, which had reported a slower growth rate in the Indian IT and IT-enabled services overall. Telangana stands out with export increasing to grow @11.3% for 2023-24, he said.

The minister claimed that the Congress government wants to keep up the momentum by concentrating on high-value, cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor design, cybersecurity, and data science.

The states strategic focus includes expanding its footprint of Global Capability Centers (GCCs), Centers of Excellence (CoEs), and Global Business Support Centers (GBSCs). With over 200 top GCCs already operating in Hyderabad, Telangana is on track to double this number in the coming years, reinforcing its position as a premier hub for technological innovation and advancement, the ministers statement said.

KTR, however, said the latest trends which showed a decline in Telanganas IT exports and new jobs created in the sector during 2023-24, are a matter of serious concern. The state had a great run, in terms of growth of IT jobs created and IT exports over the last six to seven years, he said.

The BRS leader said the IT sector is a crucial engine that fuels the growth of Hyderabad and Telangana. During the tenure of BRS, this sector witnessed unprecedented growth, thanks to several path-breaking policies, he said.

I urge the Congress government to prioritise the IT and 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, KTR said, adding that 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 backseat since they assumed office, he stressed.
For eight days, caught in a country going through violent upheaval, 26-year-old Bipol Haldar lived in fear. In late July, the truck driver had made the familiar journey from West Bengal across the Bangladesh border, transporting clothes and construction items. But by the beginning of August, as the country began to spiral, Haldar was desperate to return. He arrived at Benapolein Bangladesh territorybarely metres from the Petrapole border, the gateway to India. And yet, for eight days, that is where they had to live. Government officials said that at least 500 Indian truck drivers are stuck in Bangladesh. (HT Photo)

From August 4, all the shops were closed. There was violence everywhere and Indian truck drivers like me had to take shelter in our own trucks inside a parking lot in Bangladesh, Haldar said, as he lived on puffed rice for the past four days.

Even as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has fled, and a new interim government beginning to take shape, government officials said that as many as 500 Indian truck drivers are stuck on the other side of the Bangladesh border, with only the first trickle able to return on Wednesday evening. Those that are in Bangladesh, officials said, are being guarded by Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) personnel.

Read Here: What explains the Bangladesh crisis?

An Indian customs official, who asked not to be named said, Until today, there were no unloaders across the border. All the trucks that went to Bangladesh were stuck along with the goods. Even if our drivers found people to unload the exported goods, there were no transporters to take it to other parts of Bangladesh. This is why over 500 trucks and their drivers were stuck in Bangladesh. Crucially, the Indian official said, customs officials in Bangladesh had closed their offices over the past few days, and fled for their lives, making any travel across the border impossible.

It was only around 7pm on Wednesday that the first batch of 40 Indian trucks returned to Petrapole. Jeet Biswas, one of the drivers of these trucks said, On Saturday night, we had run out of food supplies. Until then, the situation was okay. But on Sunday morning, when I stepped out with my helper to buy food, I saw mobs throwing burnt tyres at homes. That is when we fled back to the parking lot, Biswas, a Kolkata resident said.

45-year-old Ananta Vishwas, a driver and a resident of Malda said that he saw mobs of between 300 and 400 people burn vehicles. We were not even getting updates about what is happening. When we heard news of Sheikh Hasina fleeing, we thought we would be harmed too. But the Bangladesh guards protected us. Almost 40 of us have managed to return. It will take more than a week for the rest because there are only a few loaders and transporters to carry, remove and transport the weight of over 500 trucks, Vishwas said.

As the trucks arrived in India on Wednesday, they were met by BSF personnel who conducted checks inside each vehicle, looking for hidden cavities where items can be smuggled. The priority, they said, was not just smuggled goods, but people. We have heard reports of prisoners escaping from Bangladeshi jails with looted weapons. They could try to enter India. That is a bigger worry and the border is on high alert, a BSF official said.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, VBA chief Prakash Ambedkar on Wednesday urged Other Backward Class communities to be alert ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra polls, saying the political parties in the state didnt support the Mandal Commission report . OBCs should be alert, Maharashtra parties didnt back Mandal Commission report: Prakash Ambedkar

The Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi head was addressing a rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar as part of his Arakashan Bachao Yatra.

The Other Backward Class community has to be on alert mode. They have to take a call about whom to vote because the BJP didnt take a stand on Mandal Commission recommendations. Those who say religion is in danger should not be believed. But at the same time, reservation is in danger, claimed Ambedkar.

He said OBCs should side with those who say they will save their reservation because political parties here never supported the Mandal Commission recommendations, he said.

While activist Manoj Jarange has been demanding reservation for the Maratha community from OBC quota, political parties in the state did not take a stand on that which created a rift among social groups, said Ambedkar.

The rift is evident in western Maharashtra, Marathwada and other parts of the state, he said.

Over Jaranges claim that Maratha community members would contest in all 288 constituencies in the state, he said, If that happens, the supremacy of 169 families will be over, said Ambedkar.

The VBA chief, a prominent OBC leader, said the issue of reservation should remain at the political level and not social. If the issue remains political, peace will prevail, he said.

Criticising NCP chief Sharad Pawar, he said, Pawar said the situation may become like Manipur. But this yatra has changed that. Police have urged us to extend the yatra saying it made the environment peaceful.

The VBA chief started the yatra on July 25 from Mumbai's Chaityabhoomi, the memorial of his grandfather Dr B R Ambedkar, and it was to conclude in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, Ambedkar had claimed, Nizami Marathas were trying to snatch the OBC quota, highlighting the historical context of the Nizam's rule over the erstwhile Hyderabad state which included the Marathwada region. The last Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, lost power after Hyderabad's annexation in 1948.

Addressing a rally in Jalna district, he asked the OBC community to thwart such plans in the upcoming assembly polls.

The state government enacted a law in February to provide the Marathas with a 10 per cent quota under a separate category.

Citing Jaranges demand for reservation for Marathas from the OBC quota, many Other Backward Class leaders, including cabinet minister Chhagan Bhujbal, have opposed any dilution of the existing quota for backward communities.

The VBA head claimed Maratha leaders from both the ruling and opposition parties were planning to undermine the OBC reservation system after the upcoming assembly elections.

The OBCs should thwart their plan in the assembly polls, due in October, he said, stressing that OBC reservation is at stake.

He asked people to send 100 members from the OBC and VBA to the Maharashtra assembly to foil the plan to dilute the OBC reservation.

OBC activist Navnath Waghmare, who had staged a 10-day hunger strike along with Laxman Hake for the protection of OBC quota, was also present at the rally.

He hit out at Jarange for disrespecting senior leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal.

Waghmare also accused Maratha leaders in power of supporting Jarange's "unreasonable demands" which undermine the legitimate rights of the OBC community.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
By , New Delhi

Parliament Session Highlights: The Monsoon Session began on July 22 and is scheduled to end on August 12, if not adjourned sine die.

A view of the Lok Sabha. (SansadTV)

Parliament Session Highlights: Wednesday is the thirteenth day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The session began on July 22 and is scheduled to end on August 12, if not adjourned sine die. Several key bills are likely to be introduced during the day, including, possibly, the much-talked-about bill for amendments to the Waqf Act. To be sure, there is no official communication on whether the Waqf Act is being amended; media reports have stated that as many as 40 amendments have been approved by the government....Read More

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar briefed Members of Parliament (MPs) on the situation in neighbouring Bangladesh, where month-long student-led protests led to the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government on the previous day. Hasina, Bangladeshs longest-serving prime minister serving a record fifth term, was forced to flee the country; she came to India and is likely to stay for the next few days. Also on Tuesday, an all-party meeting was held on Bangladesh. The meeting, chaired by EAM Jaishankar, was attended by several opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha.
EV Ramasamy (Periyar) was largely drawn towards public life from his early years. He served the people of Erode with great dedication during the spread of plague in the early years of the 20th century and even carried dead bodies abandoned by relatives for dignified burial. He did wander across the country dressed as a Hindu monk to places like Varanasi (Kasi), Kolkata (Calcutta), Asansol, Puri, Ellore and Bejawada to gain knowledge and firsthand account of the Hinduism and its practices including the role of superstitions, behaviour and the conduct of Hindu priests in these religious places. Periyars decision to leave the Congress in 1925 on the ground that the party was not committed to abolishing caste discrimination and untouchability was one of the crucial turning points in the history of social justice movement in the Madras Presidency and subsequently towards defining the course of politics in Tamil Nadu. Periyar joined the Congress in 1919 because he was deeply drawn by the ideals of Gandhi and the quest for freedom (HT)

Periyar joined the Congress in 1919 because he was deeply drawn by the ideals of Gandhi and the quest for freedom. Periyar was a dedicated member of the Congress and campaigned for khadi with great energy and enthusiasm. He carried khadi clothes on his shoulders to encourage and spread awareness about the national movement for freedom from the British colonial rule and the significance of khadi among men and women in the Madras Presidency. Periyar, known as the father of the Dravidian movement, was not originally a member of the Justice Party that was established on 20 November 1916. The founding members of the Justice Party were C Natesa Mudaliar, TM Nair, PTheagaraya Chetty and Alamelu Mangai Thayarammal. The foundation of Justice Party, officially the South Indian Liberal Federation, was the culmination of historical efforts in the late 19th and early 20th century to seek representation for the non-Brahmins in the administration and politics of the Madras Presidency.

After assuming the charge of the president of the Congress for the Madras presidency, Periyar advocated reservation for the non-Brahmins in education and employment in government. He wanted the Congress to take keen interest in the subject of reservation(s) for the non-Brahmins but he was distraught by the indifference and lukewarm response of the Congress. He continued to press for resolution to this effect in Trichy (1919), Thirunelveli (1920), Thanjavur (1921), Tiruppur (1922), Salem (1923) and Thiruvannamalai (1924). He was dismayed by the lack of response and believed that Congress party was controlled by the dominant caste and class considerations. Periyars Vaikkom struggle (1924) was an indication of his courage and determination to fight against the practices of untouchability and discrimination of marginalised people and communities even beyond the boundaries of Madras Presidency. Though Periyar and Rajaji were great friends for a long time yet Periyar found his moves and initiatives were shrewdly blocked by Rajaji on a number of occasions. Periyars appeal and subsequent meetings with Gandhi also did not bear fruits.

The Kanjipuram Conference of the Congress Party (1925) became a final breaking point between Periyar and the Congress when he pressed for the resolution advocating the reservations for the non-Brahmins and the tabling of the resolution was denied on the ground that it would affect the common good. This was the end of his association with the Congress and Periyar vowed never to return to the Congress and resist the Congress for rest of his life. The end of his association with the Congress marked the beginning of a new era in the politics of Madras Presidency and giant leap to the social justice movement in Tamil Nadu. Periyar launched the self-respect movement in 1925.

Periyar welcomed the caste based reservation approved by the Dr Subbarayan-led ministry supported by the Justice Party in 1928. The first state level conference of self-respect movement was held in February 1929 in Chengalpet was both an historical and significant for several reasons including 34 radical resolutions that were passed at this conference. It needs to be observed that Justice Party was faced with a criticism of its leaders being elites from the non-Brahmin communities and the peaking of the nationalist struggle for freedom in the early 1930s also contributed to the electoral setbacks for the party. Congress under the leadership of Rajaji won the January 1937 elections and Justice party was humbled and its leaders were dejected by the developments. Periyar encouraged the leaders of the Justice Party to preserve their energy and vision as well as wait for their time to come. The decision to make Hindi compulsory subject in the schools by the Rajaji led Congress government in 1937 reinforced a new vigour and dynamism into the politics of the state that would survive even beyond hundred years. The language politics acquired a critical dimension in the national debate on identity and power. Periyar sought self rule for the Tamil territory by the Tamils and did not believe that the rights and interests of the Tamils could be protected under the political and constitutional framework of India.

Another remarkable development took place with the election of Periyar as the president of the Justice Party in December 1938 while he was serving prison imprisonment in Chennai. Periyar continued to resist against the imposition of Hindi and succeeded in the withdrawal of Hindi as the compulsory subject at the school through a governors order in February 1940. The opponents of the Congress at the national level such as Mohammed Ali Jinnah and MN Roy began to take notice of Periyar and to add surprise to the turn of events in politics, even Rajaji defended Periyars call for a separate nation depending on the ground that people genuinely desire and support such a demand. Rajaji at this stage had already resigned from the Congress by 1942 after supporting the partition of India into India and Pakistan. In August 1944 another significant move was undertaken by Periyar at the Salem conference of the Justice party. The self-respect movement and the Justice party were integrated with a view to establish broad based peoples movement in the name of Dravida Kazhagam, and thus preserving the continuity and changes within the social justice movement in Tamil Nadu. This was another defining moment in the history of Dravidian movement in the south and in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Periyar held strong reservations about the electoral politics right from the beginning. Periyars aversion or indifference to electoral politics would later continue to be major point of contention between him and his political disciple CN Annadurai (Anna). Though it is attributed that the marriage of Periyar with Maniyammai, who was 41 years younger than himself, was the major reason for the final split between Periyar and Anna implying the change of guard and custodian of the Dravida Kazhagam (DK) yet the truth remains that Periyar sensed the urge and anxiety of Anna and his followers to enter electoral politics and contest the elections. The result was the birth of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on September 17, 1949 at the Robinson Park in Chennai. The rest is history with the tear drops of Periyar turning into ocean of support in less than two decades of time with DMK rising to power in March 1967 in Tamil Nadu.

(Prof Ramu Manivannan is a Fulbright Scholar - Political Scientist - Social Activist in areas of education, human rights and sustainable development. He is currently the Director, Multiversity  Centre for Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Kurumbapalayam Village, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu)
Former probationary IAS Puja Khedkar has told the Delhi high court that she was yet to receive the UPSC order cancelling her candidature and she got to know the development through media. Former probationary IAS Puja Khedkar. (HT)

Puja Khedkar had moved the Delhi high court on Monday challenging Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) decision to cancel her candidature. The matter was mentioned before a bench headed by acting chief justice Manmohan and was heard on Wednesday.

On July 31, the UPSC through a press statement stated that it has taken a decision to cancel the provisional candidature of Puja Khedkar, who was facing accusations of cheating and forgery. The UPSC found Puja Khedkar guilty of violating rules and debarred her from all the future exams and selections.

The matter was heard by a bench headed by Justice Jyoti Singh. Senior advocate Indira Jaising, appearing for Puja Khedkar, referring to the press release, said The strange thing about this case is that the order cancelling my candidature has not been handed over to me till date. All I have is the press release.

The press release has to be quashed. They have to supply me the order so that I can approach the appropriate tribunal, said Jaising.

The UPSC, however, informed the Delhi high court that it will provide Puja Khedkar with the order cancelling her candidature within two days. The high court has granted Puja Khedkar the liberty to approach the appropriate forum to challenge the cancellation of her candidature.

Earlier, the UPSC stated that it has carefully considered the request of Puja Khedkar and in order to meet the ends of justice, she was granted time till 3:30pm of July 30, 2024, so as to enable her to submit the response to the show cause notice.

It was also categorically made clear to Puja Khedkar that it was last and final opportunity to her and no further extension in time would be allowed. It was also conveyed to her in unequivocal terms that if no response was received by the aforesaid date/time, the UPSC would take further action without entertaining any further reference from her. Despite extension in time allowed to her, she failed to submit her explanation within the prescribed time, stated the UPSC.

The UPSC has examined the available records carefully and found her guilty of acting in contravention of the provisions of the CSE-2022 Rules. Her provisional candidature for the CSE-2022 has been cancelled and she has also been debarred permanently from all the future Examinations/Selections of the UPSC, the press statement stated.

Recently, the Delhi Patiala House Court dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Puja Khedkar, and said the allegations against the accused Puja Khedkar are grave and serious which requires thorough investigation.

(With inputs from agencies)
The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned hearing on the bail plea filed by former Tamil Nadu minister V Senthil Balaji till August 12 while asking the Enforcement Directorate (ED) probing the case whether trial against him in the money laundering case can go on without a conviction in the predicate offence probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the cash-for-jobs scam. V Senthil Balaji had approached the top court against the order of the Madras high court of February 28 denying him bail. (PTI)

The bench led by justice AS Oka said, How can conviction in PMLA be sustained unless the predicate offence is established, as it agreed to consider arguments on this aspect on Monday. Balaji has been accused in a 2014 cash-for-jobs scam where he is accused of taking bribes for giving jobs in the state metropolitan transport corporation (MTC). He was the Transport Minister at the relevant period in the AIADMK-led government.

Solicitor general Tushar Mehta appearing for ED along with advocate Zoheb Hossain submitted that the trial in the predicate offence and the offence under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) can proceed simultaneously.

The bench, also comprising justice PB Varale, further said, You also need to address if there is possibility of trial concluding soon in the predicate offence. There are more than 1,000 witnesses.

The courts observation assumes relevance as Balaji had approached the top court against the order of the Madras HC of February 28 denying him bail. He was arrested on June 14 last year. According to ED, proceeds of crime worth 67.74 crore have been found to nail Balaji in the PMLA case.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appearing for Balaji had earlier submitted that the former minister has remained in custody for over a year and the charge sheet has been filed in the cases against him.

Balaji also sought bail on medical grounds claiming that he had undergone coronary bypass surgery and required medical attention. He also questioned the evidence produced against him by doubting that the material forming part of the charge sheet was not recovered from his residence. This fact was disputed by ED.

The HC while denying bail to Balaji had observed, The fact that the petitioner continued to hold the position as a minister for nearly eight months and that too without a portfolio when he was inside the jail, shows the tremendous influence of the petitioner and the importance that is given to him by the state government.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday took suo motu cognisance of an unusual order issued by a Punjab and Haryana high court judge, who criticised a stay order previously passed by the apex court while commenting that the Supreme Court tends to perceive itself as more supreme than it actually is and views high courts as being less high than they are constitutionally. According to justice Sehrawat, the Supreme Court thinks of itself as more Supreme than it really is, and it thinks of the high courts as less high than they truly are in terms of the Constitution. (HT PHOTO)

A five-judge bench, consisting of Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud and justices Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, Surya Kant and Hrishikesh Roy, will hear the matter on Wednesday. The bench comprises the first five judges of the top court.

The case, titled In Re: Order of Punjab and Haryana High Court Dated 17.07.2024 and Ancillary Issues, was registered following the high court order on July 17. In that order, a single bench led by justice Rajbir Sehrawat made several critical remarks about the Supreme Courts decision to stay contempt proceedings initiated by the high court in a case.

According to justice Sehrawat, the Supreme Court thinks of itself as more Supreme than it really is, and it thinks of the high courts as less high than they truly are in terms of the Constitution. His judgment also sounded a note of caution for the Supreme Court, asking it to be more explicit about the potential legal ramifications of any decisions it makes.

Justice Sehrawat noted that the Supreme Court stayed the contempt proceedings not while hearing an appeal against the order initiating contempt, but in an appeal against the order that led to the contempt proceedings.

He observed: Seen at a psychological plane this type of order is actuated, primarily, by two factors, firstly a tendency to avoid owning responsibility of the consequence which such an order, in all likelihood, is bound to produce, under a pretense that an order of stay of contempt proceedings does not adversely affect anybody. Secondly, a tendency to presume the Supreme Court to be more Supreme than it actually is and to presume a High Court to be lesser High than it constitutionally.

The judge also emphasised that the apex court itself has clarified numerous times that high courts are not subordinate to the Supreme Court. The relation between high court and the Supreme Court is not the same as is the elation between a civil judge (junior division) within its jurisdiction and the high court. In terms of Articles 132 to 134 of the Constitution of India, the Supreme Court is not even an ordinary court of unconditional appeal, unless there is a specific statute providing for appeal from the orders of the high court to the Supreme Court in specified matters, said justice Sehrawat. Therefore, the judge asserted, there is no scope for sundry direction being issued by the Supreme Court to a high court, regarding certain proceeding pending before a high court.

The judge acknowledged that while high courts may follow directions from the Supreme Court, whether out of perceived coercion, due regard, or institutional majesty, the Supreme Court may not always consider the drastic and damaging consequences its stay orders on contempt proceedings can produce.

As an example, the high court referred to a stay order in a specific case, which the jduge claimed, deprived about 35% of Punjab and Haryana superior judiciary members of their selection grade and super time scale for several years. This happened because the high court, on its administrative side, interpreted the Supreme Courts stay as a de facto order staying a final order passed by its division bench on the judicial side, justice Sehrawat said.

The judge questioned who should be held responsible for this situation -- the high court or the Supreme Court? He suggested that both courts engage in soul searching to address this issue and advised that the Supreme Court should be more specific in its orders to avoid similar situations in the future.

His judgment concluded by adjourning the case sine die until the Supreme Court decides the relevant appeal, while noting that such a course might not always be possible for a high court to follow, depending on the facts of a particular case or the involvement of specific statutory provisions.

It is also noteworthy that on Monday evening, high court chief justice Sheel Nagu modified the roster, transferring all contempt of court cases from justice Sehrawat to justice Harkesh Manuja.
Underscoring the importance of judicial discipline and the hierarchical structure of Indias judicial system, the Supreme Court on Wednesday expunged contentious remarks made by justice Rajbir Sehrawat of the Punjab and Haryana high court against the top court. The Supreme Court of India. (PTI Photo)

The remarks, which critiqued a stay order previously issued by the Supreme Court, had prompted the apex court to initiate suo motu proceedings amid concerns over the perceived breach of judicial decorum and respect for the constitutional courts authority. Justice Sehrawats order on July 17 stated that the Supreme Court tends to consider itself as more Supreme than it actually is and views high courts as being less high than they are constitutionally.

The five-judge bench, consisting of Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud and justices Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, Surya Kant and Hrishikesh Roy, expressed its dismay over the observations made by the high court judge, saying it is pained at the completely unwarranted and unnecessary remarks.

The Supreme Court is not supreme nor is the high court or a munsif court supreme. The supremacy is of the Constitution. We are all under the Constitution, commented the bench, adding its role as custodian of the judicial system in the country require the Supreme Court to order deletion of the judges gratuitous remarks that bring not only the top court but also the high court into disrepute.

Even as it observed that justice Sehrawats comments border on contempt, the bench refrained from initiating contempt proceedings against the judge, saying it would not want the majesty of the high court to be undermined or put the judge of a constitutional court in the dock as a litigant to defend himself.

Thus, we will expunge the remarks of the judge and express that observations in the order are scandalous. The Supreme Court must also use its powers with great caution and remedy by us should not cause greater judicial harm...at the same time, this tendency of making observations on the orders of the Supreme Court must be eschewed. Every judge has to maintain the discipline of the system, said the bench.

In its order, the bench stated: Justice Rajbir Sehrawat has made observations in regard to the Supreme Court of India, which are a matter of grave concern...Judicial discipline in the context of the hierarchical nature of the judicial system is intended to preserve the dignity of all institutions whether at the level of district court, or high court or the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court emphasised that compliance with its orders is not optional but a bounden constitutional obligation. It added that the remarks made by justice Sehrawat were unnecessary for the outcome of the case and were gratuitous in nature, noting that such comments could potentially undermine the dignity of the judicial system as a whole.

The bench also made it clear that while parties may be aggrieved by an order, judges should not take issue with decisions made by higher constitutional fora. Judges are never aggrieved by an order passed by a higher constitutional forum, the court pointed out, underlining the expectation that judicial officers maintain decorum and respect the judicial hierarchy.

During the proceedings, attorney general R Venkataramani and solicitor general Tushar Mehta expressed their concerns regarding the remarks made by justice Sehrawat. SG Mehta pointed out that a video clip from the high court proceedings had been circulating, wherein justice Sehrawat allegedly declared an order of the Supreme Court non-est and expressed his unwillingness to adhere to a stay order passed by the division bench. Mehta argued that this conduct not only breached judicial propriety but also bordered on contempt.

While the Supreme Court acknowledged the merit in the arguments that the remarks bordered on contempt, it chose to exercise restraint in pursuing further action, opting instead to expunge the contentious observations and issuing a word of caution for the high court judge, whose conduct, it said seemed an attempt to dislocate the sanctity of judicial hierarchy and maintenance of judicial discipline.

The bench said it expects more caution on the part of justice Sehrawat with respect to judicial orders issued by the Supreme Court or a larger bench in the high court. Whether an individual judge is aggrieved by an order is beside the point. Every judge is bound by the discipline that hierarchical discipline envisaged under the judicial system of the country, it held.

The bench further refrained from directing any judicial inquiry into the incident at this stage but noted its constitutional duty to intervene when such remarks threaten to compromise the integrity of the judiciary.

We desist from directing any judicial enquiry at this stage but as per our constitutional duty we were bound to intervene. Thus, the remarks from the order stand expunged. We hope the court would not have to interfere in a similar matter in the future in relation to the same judge or any other judge of this country, said the bench while noting that a bench led by high court chief justice Sheel Nagu has stayed justice Sehrawats order on its own motion.

In addition to addressing the remarks made in the order, the Supreme Court also highlighted the implications of the live-streaming era on judicial conduct. Referring to the video clip that was widely shared, the bench underscored the necessity for judges to exercise greater restraint during court proceedings, particularly in an age where public scrutiny is intensified by digital media.

A video of the judge is doing the rounds where the judge is using gratuitous and unwarranted remarks during the hearing. In the age of live streaming, it is necessary that judges exercise greater restraint during proceedings and the observations made can cause impalpable harm to the judicial process, the bench maintained.

A suo motu case, titled In Re: Order of Punjab and Haryana High Court Dated 17.07.2024 and Ancillary Issues, was registered by the Supreme Court following justice Sehrawats order on July 17 in which the judge made several critical remarks about the Supreme Courts decision to stay contempt proceedings initiated by the high court in a case.

According to justice Sehrawat, the Supreme Court thinks of itself as more Supreme than it really is, and it thinks of the high courts as less high than they truly are in terms of the Constitution. His judgment also sounded a note of caution for the Supreme Court, asking it to be more explicit about the potential legal ramifications of any decisions it makes.

He observed, Seen at a psychological plane this type of order is actuated, primarily, by two factors, firstly a tendency to avoid owning responsibility of the consequence which such an order, in all likelihood, is bound to produce, under a pretense that an order of stay of contempt proceedings does not adversely affect anybody. Secondly, a tendency to presume the Supreme Court to be more supreme than it actually is and to presume a High Court to be lesser high than it constitutionally.

Justice Sehrawat acknowledged that while high courts may follow directions from the Supreme Court, whether out of perceived coercion, due regard, or institutional majesty, the Supreme Court may not always consider the drastic and damaging consequences its stay orders on contempt proceedings can produce.
Ousted Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed will continue to stay in Delhi for 'some more time,' according to her son and once adviser, Sajeeb Wazed Joy. Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed Joy(Twitter)

These are all rumours. She has not made a decision on that yet. She is going to stay in Delhi for a little while, Joy, who is based in the United States, told German news outlet Detusche Welle (DW), when asked about his mother's reported plans to seek asylum in a third country.

My sister is with her, he added, referring to Saima Wazed, the World Health Organization's (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia, which has its headquarters in Delhi.

Hasina, Bangladesh's longest-serving premier who was in her record fifth term, resigned and left her nation for India on Monday afternoon, arriving at the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Hindon base in Ghaziabad near Delhi in the evening.

The now-former PM, who, it is said, was adamant about continuing but was convinced by Joy to resign, arrived in India with her sister Sheikh Rehana, a British citizen. Tulip Siddiq, Rehana's daughter and Hasina's niece, is a British parliamentarian.

However, Sheikh Hasina's reported plan to seek asylum in the UK or the US seem to have hit a roadblock, with the UK Home Office saying that there is no provision for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK for asylum or temporary refuge. The US, meanwhile, is reported to have revoked her visa.

Finland and the UAE are two other alternatives she is believed to considering for asylum.

A student-led anti-quota movement led to her resignation in Bangladesh, followed by escape.

(With PTI inputs)
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday hit out the Opposition for their protests demanding the removal of GST on life and medical insurance premiums. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spoke in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.(ANI)

Referring to a request from Union minister Nitin Gadkari, Sitharaman said, Since the letter came in public via someone else... they protested in the Parliament with 200 MPs to demand removal of GST.

I want to raise two important points - tax has been there on medical insurance even before the introduction of GST. There was already a pre-GST tax on medical insurance, before the GST was introduced. This is not a new issue, it was already there in all the states. Those protesting here... did they discuss regarding the removal of this tax in their states?

Wrongful protests have happened recently, and comments have been passed on the basis of a news report which suggested that the 'Centre has pocketed Rs. 24,529 crores of health insurance premiums alone'. This is incorrect and highly misleading. The GST rate of 18% on Health Insurance comprises of 9% CGST and 9% SGST. Thus, of the total collections of 24,529 crores from Health Insurance in the last 3 years, Half of it, Rs. 12,264 crores, went straight to the states as SGST. It doesn't even come to the Centre. Apart from this, roughly 41% of the Centre's share of GST collection on Health Insurance is devolved back to the states again as part of Tax Devolution as per the Finance Commission's formula, she added.

Speaking to reporters at the Parliament House Complex, Sitharaman said that the GST Council, a constitutional body, has the authority to address any GST-related issues.

She added that the proposed amendment, as requested by opposition parties, cannot be introduced in Parliament.

Oppn's protest over GST on health insurance

On Tuesday, MPs from the INDIA bloc protested at the Parliament building's gate, calling for the government to withdraw the 18 per cent GST on life and health insurance premiums.

Opposition members pointed to a request from Union minister of road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari, who had urged finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to remove the GST on these premiums.

AAP MP Raghav Chadha also referenced Gadkari's letter to Sitharaman, asking to eliminate GST on health and life insurance premiums. RSP member N K Premchandran had proposed an amendment during the Finance Bills passage to remove the 18 per cent GST on these premiums.

Following the rejection of Premchandran's amendment during the Finance Bills discussion, opposition MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha.
Kohima: The North East Students Organisation (NESO), a conglomeration of eight students bodies representing the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura, expressed concern on Wednesday that the tumultuous political events unfolding in neighbouring Bangladesh could have serious ramifications in India, especially in the northeast region where four states share a common international boundary with Bangladesh. Protesters in Dhaka pelt stones as they clash with police during the ongoing anti-quota agitation (AFP Photo)

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the NESO stated that the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh will and may lead to an exodus of its nationals into India, particularly to the states sharing borders with the neighbouring nation. In the backdrop of the current situation, NESO underscored the need for the government of India to ensure that the border between northeast India and Bangladesh is thoroughly and strictly manned so as to detect attempted illegal migration from across the border.

Tripura shares a boundary of 856 kilometers with Bangladesh, while

Meghalaya shares a 443 km long boundary, Mizoram shares 318 km, and Assam has a common boundary of 262 km with Bangladesh.

Citing past events where the northeastern region had to bear the brunt of mass illegal immigration from Bangladesh, NESO mentioned the partition in 1947, where hundreds of thousands of Bengalis from East Pakistan illegally crossed the border and forcibly occupied lands in Assam and Tripura (then a Union Territory); during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, many from East Pakistan migrated to India, including the northeast, especially in the states of Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya (then a part of the composite state of Assam).

The northeastern region is home to a plethora of indigenous communities, which are microscopic in numbers and lives, amongst their own communities in traditionally marked territories. The arrival of millions of illegal foreigners from other countries led to a contestation of space, forced cultural assimilation, economic competition, and distrust between the indigenous populace and the foreigners, the organisation said.

It maintained that the illegal settlement of these millions of foreigners led to a drastic alteration of the demographic structure in most regions of the seven northeastern states.

NESO pointed out that these northeastern states have witnessed mass movements in the past and till date demanding the immediate deportation of all foreigners from their states after migrants overwhelmed the indigenous communities in many pockets of their respected states.

Maintaining that such an unabated flow of immigrants into the region thus led to insecurity, agitations, riots, and clashes between these foreigners and the indigenous people, the NESO sought the immediate intervention of the Centre to ensure that no illegal migrant enters the northeastern states from Bangladesh and also requested that no single Bangladeshi should be granted asylum or rehabilitation in the entire northeastern region.

NESO comprises the All Assam Students Union (AASU), Khasi Students Union (KSU), Garo Students Union (GSU), All Manipur Students Union (AMSU), Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), Naga Students Federation (NSF), All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU), and Twipra Students Federation (TSF).
New Delhi: The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC), an umbrella body of Sufis in India, supported the proposed Waqf amendments that are likely to be tabled in the Parliament this week. All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (Twitter/@SufiCulturalOrg)

The council, however, said that they have demanded a separate act or body to govern the Dargahs and that the office of the Sajjadanashin (sufi head of a shrine) be defined as a hereditary position.

The council also met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and minority affairs minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday and expressed their support for the amendments.

Chairman of All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council Syed Naseeruddin Chishty said, The council strongly supports the amendments (to the Act) that are being proposed by this government. There is a desperate need for it.

The National Democratic Alliance government at the Centre is planning to table the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha on Thursday to make changes to the Waqf Act 1995. With 40 proposed changes, the Bill seeks to repeal several provisions of the current Waqf Act, which governs Waqf boards.

The AISSC has been demanding the amendments for a long time.

Also Read: Proposed changes to Waqf Act spark political slugfest

The Dargahs hold the maximum stakes, and our demands should be met. We strongly believe that the government will present the Bill in favour of Muslims, Chishty said, adding that the people should not spread false information and must wait to see the provisions of the bill first as and when the government presents it in the Parliament.

The dargahs are required to allocate seven percent of their properties to the Waqf board. He also said that the amendment is also necessary because the members appointed to the Waqf board neither understand the Sufi belief nor know the traditions and customs of the Dargahs and act arbitrarily and demanded that a representative of Sajjadnashin should be a member of the State Waqf Board.

We advocate for the collective income of the Dargah and the Waqf to be utilised for the betterment of the community, he added.

The Sufi leader said it would be wise to thoroughly study the bill first and then form an opinion, rather than expressing views and raising demands even before its draft is available.

There has been a lot of corruption within the Waqf board, which needs to be checked. The government will only work for the betterment of the Muslims, he said.

Regarding the absence of consultation on the amendments by Muslim representatives, the body said that they raised the concern with Rijiju and that they were assured of a holistic and representative Bill.

In the letter to Doval, the council said, We are hopeful that the draft Waqf Amendment Bill will be comprehensive and serve the interests of all stakeholders.

The council also said that they will be submitting recommendations once the draft bill is uploaded.

If the legislation aligns with the interests of the nation, Dargahs, and Khanqahs, it will be a landmark achievement, the council said.

According to people aware of the matter, the proposed amendments include the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the District Collectors office, allowing for proper evaluation and monitoring.

Additionally, the amendments aim to enhance inclusivity by ensuring womens representation on both the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards.
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday formally amended a controversial budget proposal to remove indexation for computing long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax by giving an option to individual taxpayers to choose between the old regime of 20% levy with indexation and the new system of 12.5% tax without indexation. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday formally amended a controversial budget proposal to remove indexation for computing long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax. (REUTERS)

While replying to questions raised by members of parliament (MPs) in the Lok Sabha on the Finance Bill (No 2) of 2024 that contained tax proposals announced in the budget on July 23, Sitharaman assured the members that she would take up the issue of withdrawing Goods and Services Tax on the life and the medical insurance in the GST Council. She, however, said that states have two-thirds vote in the apex federal body on indirect tax, hence they should raise the issue in the council rather than Parliament.

Giving latest data and details, FM rejected the Oppositions allegation that the government was putting the tax burden on the common man, particularly the middle class, while sparing the corporate firms. She said that besides corporate income tax, proprietors of the companies pay tax on the dividend income at a higher rate. In 2020, we started taxing it at the hands of the shareholders at the applicable rate. This effectively meant that the richer shareholders will pay tax on dividend at 39%. Whereas in contrast, small and middle-income taxpayers will pay tax on dividends at even less than 10%, she said.

Read Here: FM Nirmala Sitharaman announces amendment to LTCG tax proposal, offers new options

Speaking about the amendment on the budget proposal related to LTCG, she said the government decided to amend after getting feedback from citizens. We hear the public. This is a practice Honble Prime Minister Modi has brought in the budget-making process, she told MPs. She said that the purpose of removing indexation is to make the law simpler and treat it also at par with the other asset class.

When the House, particularly the Opposition members, claimed a victory for getting the amendment, the finance minister told the Chair: Prime Minister also represents the people. We all represent the people Sir, [Im] very happy to know the Opposition wants to own it up now. After a two-day discussion, Lok Sabha passed the money bill along with the amendment.

Sitharaman said the amendment gave a fair option and gives the choice to the property holder who is selling it. Replying to the criticism from the Opposition that she had to amend her budget proposal, she said, Yes because Ive heard the people who want some things to be changed. We have the courage and conviction to change it.

The current amendment is for land and building assets acquired by individuals and Hindu Undivided Family (HuF) before July 23, 2024. It stipulates that in the case of transfer of long-term capital asset, being land or building or both. By an individual or HUF. Which is acquired before 23rd July 2024. The taxpayer can compute his taxes under the new scheme, which is 12.5% without indexation, and the old scheme 20% with indexation, and pays such tax which is the lower of the two, she said.

Read Here: Govt, workers thrash out key issues in new pension scheme

Not only we are coming up with an option [but] we are also saying calculate under both and tell us whichever is the lower. You pay tax on that. So, we have given an option. Sir, this ensures that no one faces additional tax burden due to this change, she added.

Government officials and tax experts said that the benefit of the option is not available to corporate firms. Dhruv Agarwala, Group CEO at Housing.com & Proptiger.com, said the move is a significant step forward for individual tax payers and HUFs, excluding NRIs and corporations. By ending the confusion and speculations from the Budget announcement, this move prevents potential negative impacts on market sentiment and growth in Indias second-largest employment-generating sector.

Additionally, while this benefit wont apply to future transactions, it gives taxpayers more time to plan the sale of their assets to maximise benefits, further boosting investment across housing segments, he added.

Participating in the two-day long debate on tax proposals mooted in the Finance Bill for 2024-25, most of the members belonging to opposition parties criticised tax proposals as anti-poor, anti-middle class and pro corporates.

Read Here: Sitharaman counters Opposition's GST claims on health insurance, mentions Gadkari's letter

Speaking on the bill on Wednesday, Shiromani Akali Dal leader (SAD) and Member of Parliament Harsimrat Kaur Badal called it tax trap bill saying that it taxes all 140-crore people and spare none, but is kind to corporates. Most of MPs from opposition parties asked the government to reduce tax burden on the farmer by removing GST on farming implements and remove 18% GST on life and medical insurance.

Initiating the debate on Tuesday afternoon, Congress leader Amar Singh criticised the government for ignoring the middle class and sparing the rich. If we see this budget that has been proposed by the government, it seems that the central government wants to take away every single rupee from the salaried class, the middle class, and the common man in some or other forms of taxes but spare the rich of this country, he said questioning why individuals income tax rose from 2.1% of gross domestic product to 3.5% in the last 10 years while corporate tax fell from 3.4% to 3.1% of GDP. Who is the government working for? he asked.

When UPA was in power, corporate tax was much higher than what the common citizens and the middle class of India paid. Today, it is exactly flipped. Corporate tax has gone down and the middle class is paying much more taxes, Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) leader Supriya Sule said.

Almost all Opposition leaders asked the government to remove GST on life and medical insurance. I think, my colleague Mahuaji [Moitra] also spoke about it. We demand the withdrawal of GST on life and medical insurance premium In fact, we want withdrawal because it is very, very important for the common man of India, Sule said.
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to stop atrocities against Hindus in violence-ravaged Bangladesh. In a press conference, Thackeray said the prime minister could stop the war in Ukraine, he could certainly do so in India's neighbouring country. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray (File photo)

"If Prime Minister Modi could stop the war in Ukraine, he should also take similar steps in Bangladesh and save the Hindus there," he said.

"If he can stop the war between Ukraine and Russia, then tell Papa to stop this war, too. Papa, atrocities are being done against Hindus in Bangladesh, please do justice to them," Thackeray said in a dig at the government alluding to the BJP's Lok Sabha elections campaign advertisement.

Reacting to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina from Bangladesh, Uddhav Thackeray raised apprehensions that a similar situation could develop in India.

"Do you think that a similar situation should develop in India?" said.

Also read: 'Sheikh Hasina to continue Delhi stay for some more time: Son Sajeeb Wazed

"There is only one message ... The people are supreme and no politician should test their patience. If you do, then what a people's court can do was seen in Bangladesh. People's court is supreme. The people's court has given a ruling in Bangladesh," he added.

He said the protesters in Bangladesh were called Razakers. Similarly, he claimed the protesting farmers in India were called terrorists.

"The farmers who had come to the national capital to protest were called terrorists. This situation in Bangladesh is a warning for everyone. Nobody should think they are above god. We are all humans," Thackeray said.

Sheikh Hasina resigned as the prime minister of Bangladesh on Tuesday and fled Dhaka on a military aircraft. She landed at Ghaziabad's Hindon airport. She is currently in a safe house in India and is exploring moving to Europe.

With inputs from PTI
Chandigarh, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday said beneficiary families of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana in the state will now receive LPG gas cylinders for 500. Ujjwala scheme beneficiaries in Haryana to receive gas cylinders for  500: CM Saini

This initiative will benefit approximately 46 lakh families with an annual income of less than 1.80 lakh, Saini added during his address at a state-level event organised in Jind on the occasion of Hariyali Teej.

Additionally, as part of the Mukhyamantri Dugdh Uphaar Yojana, fortified milk will be provided to schoolgirls aged 14 to 18 for 150 days to combat malnutrition, the chief minister said.

He added that this programme is expected to support around 2.65 lakh adolescent girls, according to an official release.

He also announced an increase in the loan amount for self-employment under the Haryana Matrishakti Udyamita Yojana from 3 lakh to 5 lakh.

Furthermore, the revolving fund provided to self-help groups for daily needs will be raised from 20,000 to 30,000, Saini said, adding that the monthly honorarium for Group Sakhi will be increased from 150 to 500.

"Jind is the historic city of Mata Jayanti Devi, and today is the Teej festival celebrating women, daughters, and sisters," the statement quoted him as saying.

The chief minister extended warm greetings and best wishes to everyone in the state for Teej, a festival symbolising greenery and prosperity.

During the event, he also provided interest-free loans totalling 100 crore to empower women in self-help groups .

He outlined the government's goal of providing 490 crore in loans to SHGs within this financial year, the release said.

Additionally, Saini recognised 66 women's SHGs, highlighting their growing role as a source of pride and strength for Haryana, it said.

He also awarded 38.5 lakh to the top three SHGs in each district, aiming to inspire greater dedication and hard work among other groups, it added.

The chief minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the launch of the 'Lakhpati Didi Yojana' during the Independence Day 2023 celebrations.

He praised the remarkable enthusiasm shown by women eager to step out of traditional roles and become 'Lakhpati Didis'.

The Haryana government aims to make two lakh sisters and daughters 'Lakhpati Didis' through various training programmes, with an initial target of 62,000 in the first phase, Saini said.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
The Congress took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking whether he would call wrestler Vinesh Phogat after her historic semi-final win at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday night. Vinesh Phogat will fight for the gold medal at the Paris Olympics on August 7.(PTI)

Vinesh Phogat became the first Indian to reach the Olympics final in women's wrestling after beating Cuba's Yusneylys Guzman 5-0 in the semi-final match. In the quarterfinals, she also defeated Tokyo 2020 champion Yui Susaki of Japan. Notably, the Japanese wrestler faced her first defeat in 82 international matches.

Taking to social media X, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh wrote, Vinesh Phogat is assured of a silver or a gold medal at Paris. Will the non-biological PM call her? To congratulate her of course but more importantly to apologise for the atrocious manner in which the Delhi Police misbehaved with her during the women wrestlers protest?

The senior Congress leader was referring to the 2023 protest by the country's ace wrestlers against then-Wrestlers' Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Brij Bhushan, who is also a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was accused of sexual harassment by female wrestlers. The 67-year-old BJP leader has held the position of WFI chief since 2012.

Wrestlers' protest in 2023



Aside from facing allegations of sexual harassment and mental torture, prominent wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia and Ravi Dahiya had vocally criticised the "dictatorial" leadership style of the six-time parliamentarian.

Top wrestlers of the country, including Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat, and others twice sat on long demonstrations in Delhi's Jantar Mantar last year, demanding action against Singh.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat was detained by the police while attempting to march to the new parliament building in New Delhi on May 28, 2023.(AFP)

In May, the Delhi Police detained Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik, and other over their march to the new Parliament building  on the day of its inauguration. In the aftermath of the incident, the wrestlers travelled to Haridwar to throw their medals into the Ganges, but were stopped by farmers' leader Naresh Tikait at the last moment.

On July 11 this year, the Rouse Avenue court in Delhi directed to begin trial and recording statement of prosecution witnesses in alleged sexual harrasment case against Singh.

This was after the court framed charges of sexual harassment, intimidation and outraging the modesty of women against Singh, while noting that there was sufficient material against him. The BJP leader has pleaded not guilty in the case.
Spectators poured into Benin's capital for a new festival celebrating traditional masks over the weekend as the West African country seeks to attract visitors and showcase its cultural heritage. The three-day Porto Novo Mask Festival drew participants from across Benin as well as neighbouring Togo and Burkina Faso. There was excitement in the crowd as spectators caught sight of some masked and costumed figures rarely seen outside their respective regions. Visitor pose with an egungun, a character wearing a Yoruba costume and mask, during the grand procession of traditional masks in Porto-Novo. The Porto-Novo Mask Festival, which was held over three days, was created at the initiative of the Beninese government and the municipality, to replace the Porto-Novo International Festival usually held in January. During this new event, dozens of people wearing different masks from all over the country paraded, but also others from Togo and Burkina Faso were also exhibited on the main avenue of the city. (Photo by Yanick Folly / AFP)

The main street hummed with traditional music while officials and members of the public watched displays of acrobatics and stilt-walkers perched on eight-metre (26-foot) poles. Benin's government and city authorities launched the event to replace the Porto Novo International Festival, usually held in January, and there were both secular and religious masks on show. Voodoo, known locally as Vodun, is widely practised in Benin. It worships gods and natural spirits while showing respect to revered ancestors.

"I'm very moved -- I saw masks I'd never had the chance to see before," said Vodun religious dignitary Severin Alode, 43. I've never seen such a buzz. It's a first. The festival's main attractions were Gonouko, towering masked figures from Porto Novo, alongside an array of other masks and appearances from Zangbeto, traditional Vodun guardians of the night. Even the rare Hounve mask was on display, as Vodun dignitary Adanklounon Ado Setondji explained.

"Our parents knew how to hide the Hounve, but as we are in the mindset of promotion, we have to take the masks out and show them to the public," he said. Before the festival, rituals took place away from spectators. Bale Atchade, a 65-year-old Vodun dignitary, said there were ceremonies centred on resolving social problems and others linked to infertility.

Source of pride

Ayaba Collete Dossou, a member of the national Vodun rites committee, said the Porto Novo festival showed the beauty of our culture and our wealth. The city's mayor Charlemagne Yankoty said the event puts Porto Novo in the spotlight."The mask festival will enhance Benin's culture and reveal its full value in terms of heritage and culture," he said. Earlier this year, the government revamped another of Benin's cultural celebrations -- its famous Voodoo festival -- in a bid to attract more visitors.

"Vodun is of economic interest to us, since tourism is an important sector," said President Patrice Talon at the festival in January. He said he hoped that event would help explain "what Vodun is and how it is practised" to domestic as well as foreign tourists. There were signs his wishes were being fulfilled at the mask festival in Porto Novo, too.

Frederica Nzamba, a 30-year-old visitor with Beninese roots, told AFP she came to "better discover and understand Benin's culture" after 16 years living abroad. The festival, she said, was a "source of pride."
The neck is a vital part of the body, housing numerous critical structures such as glands, arteries, veins, muscles, nerves, the esophagus, trachea and vertebrae but due to its lack of bone protection, the neck is highly susceptible to injury. In emergencies, the neck's function is often assessed first because any disruption can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening conditions. Can resting your neck on those salon basins be harmful? Experts on ball massagers and salon basins (Photo by Milk San Sebastian/RunLindseyRun)

Neck Health Risks:

The neck supports the weight of the head and ensures its alignment with the rest of the body, playing an essential role in overall bodily function. We got a few experts on board to know whether resting our neck on salon basins and using certain types of ball massagers is safe or can be potentially be harmful?

Calling it a concern that has persisted for years, Dr Arjun Srivatsa, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of Neurosciences in Bengaluru, shared in an interview with HT Lifestyle, These risks are not new, over the years, there have been documented cases highlighting the dangers, underscoring the importance of caution in these seemingly innocuous activities.

He revealed, Long-term use of a salon basin as a place to rest your neck can come with a number of serious dangers. The uncomfortable and frequently abnormal posture may cause prolonged pain or discomfort by putting tension on the cervical spine and neck muscles. More concerningly, extended hyperextension of the neck during salon treatments has rarely but seriously resulted in vertebral artery dissection, a hazardous condition that can cause strokes. There are times when this occurrence is called beauty parlour stroke syndrome. In addition, the posture may compress cervical nerves, resulting in pain, tingling, or numbness.

Dr Arjun Srivatsa added, Ball massagers can be hazardous if not used properly, even though they are normally helpful for relieving pain and relaxing muscles. Using a ball massager too vigorously might cause soft tissue damage or bruises to muscles. Without the right direction, using ball massagers on delicate areas like the neck or spine might result in strain or harm. Individuals who suffer from specific medical disorders, including severe osteoporosis or herniated discs, should exercise caution when using ball massagers or stay away from them completely since incorrect usage can make their situation worse.

Bringing his expertise to the same, Dr Imraan Khan (PT), Consultant Head Physiotherapist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai's Mira Road, explained, Those salon basins can be uncomfortable due to the way your neck is resting at an awkward angle. This can cause severe pain and neck distress. These ball massagers or salon basins can heavily impact your neck resulting in restricted movement and even severe injuries. The way your head is aligned on the hard surface of the basin can put excessive pressure on your neck and its tissues leading to strain, stiffness, pain, and numbness in the neck muscles. If this pressure sustains for more than a few hours it can cause the neck muscles to tighten causing persistent neck pain and even headache called as cervicogenic headache. This can happen even after using ball massagers on the delicate parts of your body such as the neck and vertebral bones around the neck.

It is irrefutable that people nowadays look for luxury and comfort in almost every aspect hence, visiting the salon for head washes and using massagers is a common practice. Dr Ashu Shishodia, Head Of Department Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at Medicover Hospitals in Navi Mumbai, opined, Here the question is - do people prioritise luxury over safety because salon basins are not ergonomic friendly as the imperative criteria are not fulfilled such as height difference, shape of head and length of neck/cervical spine?

He elaborated, Even though they have different adjustments but are yet not compatible for everyone. Also taking the neck in an extreme extension position can put pressure on various blood vessels supplying the neck, hence it is not recommended to use salon basins. Resting your neck on salon basins will feel cozy and relaxing but it is the opposite of it. Doing so can cause discomfort and strain in the neck. It can induce pressure on the cervical spine and surrounding muscles creating tension or headaches. This misalignment can cause excruciating neck pain. Moreover, shared basins are contaminated with bacteria which can put one at the risk of scalp infections or skin irritations. Being in an uncomfortable position for an extended period while hair washing in the salon is not recommended at all. Everyone has to exercise caution and be safe.

Tips to Protect Your Neck:

Dr Arjun Srivatsa advised, When using ball massagers or salon treatments, make sure you are providing adequate support for your neck by using ergonomic equipment, which is made to accommodate the user's natural body alignment and improve comfort and safety. The equipment's height should be adjusted to keep the neck in a neutral position. During lengthy treatments, take pauses and let the practitioner know if you are uncomfortable. Use moderate motions, stay away from sensitive regions, and keep sessions short while using ball massagers. If you already have medical conditions, speak with a doctor. To support general neck health, keep your posture correct, exercise frequently, drink plenty of water, control your stress, and warm up your neck muscles.

Dr Imraan Khan suggested, One should take utmost care of their neck for the betterment of their health and prevent future injury. This can be achieved by adding a soft cushion under your neck throughout your beauty procedure. You can take quick short breaks to stretch your neck and body throughout your salon visit. Similarly, avoid using the massager on an open wound or inflamed area or on the bony areas in the neck to minimise the damage caused. Use your ball massager gently and only for a shorter duration. Prevention is always better than cure, so do not wait until you get neck. Make mindful choices by maintaining good posture, exercising regularly, and eating healthy meals.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Researchers from the Universities of Arizona, Oxford and Leeds examined dozens of previous studies on long Covid to investigate the number and range of people affected, the underlying disease mechanisms, the numerous symptoms that patients develop, and current and future treatments. Long Covid: New insights into symptoms, mechanisms and treatment prospects (File Photo by REUTERS)

Long Covid, also known as post-Covid-19 condition, is described as symptoms that last for three months or longer following acute Covid-19. The illness can harm several organ systems, resulting in reduced function and symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive impairment (often known as 'brain fog'), breathing difficulties, and discomfort.

Long Covid can affect almost anyone, including all age groups and children. It is more prevalent in females and those of lower socioeconomic status, and the reasons for such differences are under study. The researchers found that while some people gradually get better from long Covid, in others the condition can persist for years. Many people who developed long Covid before the advent of vaccines are still unwell.

"Long Covid is a devastating disease with a profound human toll and socioeconomic impact," said Janko Nikolich, MD, PhD, senior author of the paper, director of the Aegis Consortium at the U of A Health Sciences, professor and head of the Department of Immunobiology at the U of A College of Medicine - Tucson, and BIO5 Institute member.

"By studying it in detail, we hope to both understand the mechanisms and to find targets for therapy against this, but potentially also other infection-associated complex chronic conditions such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia."

If a person has been fully vaccinated and is up to date with their boosters, their risk of long Covid is much lower. However, 3%-5% of people worldwide still develop long Covid after an acute Covid-19 infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, long Covid affects an estimated 4%-10% of the US adult population, and 1 in 10 adults who had Covid develop long Covid.

The review study also found that a wide range of biological mechanisms are involved, including persistence of the original virus in the body, disruption of the normal immune response, and microscopic blood clotting, even in some people who had only mild initial infections.

There are no proven treatments for long Covid yet, and current management of the condition focuses on ways to relieve symptoms or provide rehabilitation. Researchers say there is a dire need to develop and test biomarkers such as blood tests to diagnose and monitor long Covid and to find therapies that address the root causes of the disease.

People can lower their risk of developing long Covid by avoiding infection - wearing a close-fitting mask in crowded indoor spaces, for example - taking antivirals promptly if they do catch Covid-19, avoiding strenuous exercise during such infections, and ensuring they are up to date with Covid vaccines and boosters.

"Long Covid is a dismal condition, but there are grounds for cautious optimism," said Trisha Greenhalgh, lead author of the study and professor at Oxford's Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences. Various mechanism-based treatments are being tested in research trials. If proven effective, these would allow us to target particular subgroups of people with precision therapies. Treatments aside, it is becoming increasingly clear that long Covid places an enormous social and economic burden on individuals, families, and society. In particular, we need to find better ways to treat and support the 'long-haulers' - people who have been unwell for two years or more and whose lives have often been turned upside down.
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant headed to Costa Rica for their honeymoon after they were spotted at the Paris Olympics, a Costa Rican publication reported. Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant got married in Mumbai on July 12.

The newly-weds arrived in Costa Rica on August 1, The Tico Times reported, quoting the central American country's General Directorate of Migration. According to the report, they are presumed to be staying at a luxury Four Seasons resort called Casa Las Olas.

Ht.com could not independently verify the authenticity of the report.

Anant Ambani, the younger son of billionaire Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani, married Radhika Merchant in Mumbai last month in one of the biggest weddings in recent times.

The young couple had joined Nita and Mukesh Ambani in Paris last week, and were spotted at several locations in the French capital. They were also seen attending a game at the Paris Olympics 2024.

(Also Read: Newlyweds Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant spotted attending game at Paris Olympics with Mukesh Ambani, Isha Ambani)

Nita Ambani, chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, is at the Paris Olympics as part of her role as a member of the International Olympic Committee.

(Also Read: Ambanis spotted at 5-star Paris hotel where rooms begin at 1.8 lakh per night. Videos)

About Casa Las Olas in Costa Rica

Casa Las Olas by Four Seasons is a six-bedroom, 18,475 square feet luxury residence overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

The price to book the entire villa starts at not less than $23,000 for a night at this star accommodation, as per its website. There is also an additional resort fee plus taxes.

The property has a fully equipped children's room with bunk beds and reading nooks, a state-of-the-art media room, gym and a huge outdoor entertaining area aroud a 100-foot (30.48 metre) swimming pool, according to its website.

For an additional charge, guests can treat themselves to the services of a private chef, a private bar as well as a personal trainer for yoga, meditation, spin classes and other workouts.

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant spotted in Panama

In a video shared by a fan page, the newly-weds were spotted visiting a temple reportedly in the central American country of Panama, that neighbours Costa Rica.
A Chinese woman disconnected her husbands life support as revenge for his philandering ways. According to a report in South China Morning Post, the 38-year-old man had left his wife and was living with his mistress while still married. A woman in China disconnected her husband's life support (Representational image)

The man, from Chinas Liaoning province, suffered a brain haemorrhage at his mistresss home recently and was rushed to the hospital. He was admitted into the intensive care unit. However, when doctors tried to find the woman who had brought the man to the hospital in order to get her consent for surgery, they discovered that she had disappeared.

Meanwhile, another woman entered the hospital and claimed to be the mans wife. A doctor, surnamed Chen, told her that her husband was in a critical condition. He had slipped into a coma and had low chances of surviving an operation.

She was also told that the cost of surgery was prohibitively high and that he could sustain only a little while longer on life support.

The wife replied saying her husband had been cheating on her for over a decade. He did not provide her with financial support and had no feelings for her. She herself did not love him.

She refused to sign the consent form and asked the doctors to remove her husbands life support. It is not clear whether the man had any other relatives present at the hospital and if they were consulted.

As per Chinese law, it is mandatory for doctors to explain surgery risks to the patients next-of-kin and obtain their written consent.

The wifes decision to remove the life-supporting tracheal tube sparked a heated debate on Chinese social media.

She is heartless. No matter what, giving up treatment is giving up a life, one person wrote on Douyin. Your wife will accompany you until old age. Treating your wife well is treating yourself well, another countered.
Giving up alcohol can prove to be a tough decision for many, and when someone does that, it is a feat worth celebrating. Liquor baron Vijay Mallyas son Siddharth Mallya did that while taking to Instagram. He announced how he has been alcohol-free for six years. His post, expectedly, went viral and left people inspired. The image shows Siddharth Mallya, the son of liquor baron Vijay Mallya, who shared about his journey to becoming alcohol-free. (Instagram/@sidmallya)

Today marks 6 years of no drinking. A reminder for anyone who needs it YOU are the only one who knows whats best for you. YOU are the only person you have to answer to. YOU are the only one who has the power to make the changes you want to make, he wrote and wrapped up his post with a picture.

Take a look at the post here:

The viral post has received several likes, including one from his wife, Jasmine Santiago. The couple got married earlier this year in an intimate ceremony. The event was hosted at Vijay Mallyas estate in Hertfordshire, UK, and attended by family and friends.

Siddharth Mallyas Instagram post further prompted people to share varied reactions. From asking him questions to congratulating him on giving up alcohol, people shared different comments.

What did Instagram users say about this post?

An Instagram user wrote, Sir, you are truly inspiring many people. Another added, Happy 6th.

While a third commented, Amazing, looking for the same change in life, a fourth wrote, Yes, Siddhartha, absolutely the power within you can change any behaviour you are suffering with. And you did it, and you are the inspiration for others. A few also used fire of heart emoticons to show their reactions to the share.

Back in 2020, Siddharth Mallya shared a Facebook video talking about his decision to give up alcohol. He started by saying that many may question why a man coming from an alcohol family is talking about giving up drinking. He expressed how he decided to give up this habit to protect his mental health.

What are your thoughts on Siddharth Mallyas alcohol-free life post?
Team Philippines double gold medalist Carlos Yulo has addressed his rift with his mother in a now-viral TikTok video. The Filipino gymnast accused his mother of taking money from his account, to which she had access. He also confirmed that his girlfriend is a major reason for the rift. Olympic gymnast Carlos Yulo with girlfriend Chloe.(Instagram/@c_edrielzxs)

Yulo scripted history in the Paris Olympics 2024 by becoming only the second-ever athlete from the Philippines to win an Olympic gold medal. He became the first to ever win two gold medals. While his legendary win made headlines in the country, Yulo is now in the news for different reasons.

In a TikTok video which shows him sitting next to girlfriend Chloe Anjeleigh San Jose, the Olympic gymnast accused his mother of draining his bank account.

Apart from the incentives, my mom also had access to my bank account and my monthly allowances for gymnastics. When I finally got control of that bank account, I found out she had been draining it. I have the bank statements showing the withdrawals she made, Yulo said in Filipino, according to news website Inquirer.

The Olympic gold winner said he never received the six-figure incentive he was supposed to receive from an earlier tournament, and asked where the money went.

"I wouldn't have known that she had received them if I hadn't looked for them myself. I have never received those incentives, and I never asked them for it. I have given up on it; it's no longer mine," Yulo said.

Angelica Yulos response

Carols Yulos mother, Angelica Yulo, said she transferred the money out of her sons account for safekeeping.

In an interview with Bombo Radyo earlier this week, she said: it was given to me. As a mother, I felt that my child might run out of money in the future. So, what I did was deposit it under my name at BPI here in Vito Cruz. Then, I held on to it and turned it into a bond for a credit card.

Yulo, however, has accused his mother of lying about how much incentive money he actually received. He also said the issue is not the money, but the principle. "The issue here is not on how little or big the amount was that she handled, but her hiding and handling it without my consent, which I'm pointing out to her," he added.

Rift over girlfriend?

Angelica Yulo claims that her sons girlfriend is the root cause of their rift. Carlos Yulo, 24, also addressed the girlfriend issue. He said his mother has never liked Chloe.

She said our misunderstanding started because of Chloe. Thats true. Ever since the beginning, she didnt like Chloe, even though she hadnt met or seen her in person. Our relationship worsened when I started setting boundaries. I stood up for Chloe because I like her, he said.

Chloe, a Filipino-Australian who was raised in Australia, has her own income, he said.

First of all, Chloe has her own income. Everything you see her using and all her travels come from her hard work, he said. My mother judged Chloe right away because of how she dressed and acted. Chloe and I grew up in different environments. Chloe grew up in Australia, and thats the culture she knows. Its very different from how we move, talk, and dress in the Philippines.
Former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia, the bitterest foe and arch-rival of Sheikh Hasina Wazed, the recently ousted premier, on Wednesday appealed for peace in the unrest-hit nation. A screengrab from Khaleda Zia's video message (The Daily Star)

Youths are our future. We need to build a democratic Bangladesh to fulfil their dream and for which they shed their blood, she said in a video message at a rally of her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Nayapaltan, reported The Daily Star.

No destruction, no anger, and no revengewe need love and peace to rebuild our country, she added from her hospital bed in what was her maiden public speech since 2018, when she was convicted in a corruption case and jailed for 17 years.

Zia, who was convicted and jailed during the premiership of Sheikh Hasina, leading to allegations of a 'political witch-hunt,' was among those released on the orders of President Mohammed Shahabuddin following the resignation and escape to India of Hasina and the collapse of her Awami League government.

Speaking further, Zia, who is the BNP chairperson, called for a prosperous Bangladesh.

I have been released now. I want to thank the brave people who were in a do-or-die struggle to make possible, the impossible. This victory brings us a new possibility to come back from the debris of plunder, corruption, and ill-politics. We need to reform this country as a prosperous one, she stated.

A student-led protest against the quota system transformed into a mass movement against the Hasina regime due to its brutal crackdown on the protestors, which claimed hundreds of lives. Serving a record fifth term, she finally stepped down and fled to Delhi, where, according to her son, her stay is likely to be extended by some more time.

An interim government, led by Nobel Prize winner Mohammed Yunus will run Bangladesh for now.
Two years after a global outbreak, fears are rife that a new strain of mpox previously known as monkeypox identified in DR Congo and now also in several neighbouring countries could further spread. Africa mpox resurgence fuels alarm

Deadlier and more transmissible than previous forms, the mpox strain surging in the Democratic Republic of Congo since September, known as the Clade Ib subclade, is spread person-to-person.

The World Health Organization said on Sunday it was considering convening an expert committee to advise on whether to declare an international emergency, as it did during the global mpox outbreak in 2022.

The Clade Ib strain causes skin rashes across the whole body, unlike other strains where lesions and rashes are usually limited to the mouth, face and genitals.

The African Union health agency, Africa CDC, registered 14,479 confirmed and suspected cases of the strain and 455 deaths in DRC as of August 3, representing a mortality rate of around three percent.

But researchers in the vast Central African nation say the mortality rate from the strain can be as much as 10 percent among children.

The Congolese government acknowledged last month an "exponential increase" in cases.

"The disease has been seen in the displacement camps around Goma in North Kivu where the extreme population density makes the situation very critical," Louis Albert Massing, medical coordinator for Doctors Without Borders in DRC said.

"The risks of explosion are real given the enormous population movements" in the conflict-ridden region, which borders several countries, he added.

Already, the Clade Ib strain has jumped national borders in the last two weeks, cases have been reported in Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda and Kenya, Rosamund Lewis, the WHO's technical lead for mpox, told AFP.

Authorities in the four countries have confirmed mpox cases Burundi in particular has reported 127 cases without specifying the strain.

The eight-member East African Community has urged governments to educate their citizens on how to protect themselves and prevent the spread of the disease.

Lewis, from the WHO, said it was the first time that the four countries lying to the east of DRC had reported mpox cases.

"Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda are countries that don't have this disease in an endemic way... that means it's an extension of the outbreak which is raging in the DRC and in Central Africa generally," she said.

Africa CDC has also reported 35 suspected and confirmed cases, including two deaths, in Cameroon, 146 cases, including one death, in Congo Brazzaville, 227 cases in the Central African Republic, 24 in Nigeria, five in Liberia and four cases in Ghana.

In West Africa, Ivory Coast recently reported six confirmed non-fatal cases, five of which were in the economic capital Abidjan, without specifying the strain.

Mpox was first discovered in humans in 1970 in the DRC, then called Zaire.

It has since been mainly limited to certain West and Central African nations. Humans mainly catch it from infected animals, such as when eating bushmeat.

In May 2022, mpox infections surged worldwide, mostly affecting gay and bisexual men.

That spike was driven by a new subtype, dubbed Clade II, which took over from Clade I.

Around 140 people died out of about 90,000 cases across 111 countries.

The outbreak is "still raging", Lewis said, including in South Africa, which has seen 24 cases, three of which were fatal, but she added it was "controlled" and spreading less.

Mpox remains a global health threat, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned in early July.

Countries are now able to detect cases, Lewis said, pointing to a system of surveillance, laboratories and communication with affected areas.

It is hard to know if there has been "a substantial rise" in cases, or whether "it's just a matter of increased awareness", said Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention director, who confirmed concern over the Clade Ib strain.

"There are some vaccines that are licensed that can be used for mpox," she said.

Negotiations between the WHO and affected countries are under way to authorise the use of one, Lewis said.

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This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
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. Russia's President Vladimir Putin (File image)(AFP)

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.

Also read | Hamas' new leader Sinwar directed Oct 7 attack from Gaza

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.

Also read | US urged countries to pass messages to Iran against escalation, State Dept says

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.
The night before long-time leader Sheikh Hasina abruptly fled Bangladesh amid deadly protests, her army chief held a meeting with his generals and decided that troops would not open fire on civilians to enforce a curfew, two serving army officers with knowledge of the discussions told Reuters. Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Army chief General Waker-us-Zaman.

Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman then reached out to Hasina's office, conveying to the prime minister that his soldiers would be unable to implement the lockdown she had called for, according to an Indian official briefed on the matter.

The message was clear, the official said: Hasina no longer had the army's support.

Details of the online meeting between military top brass and the message to Hasina that she had lost their backing have not previously been reported.

They help to explain how Hasina's 15-year rule, during which she brooked little dissent, came to such a chaotic and sudden end on Monday, when she fled from Bangladesh to India.

The nationwide curfew had been imposed after at least 91 people were killed and hundreds injured in nationwide clashes on Sunday, the deadliest day since student-led protests against Hasina began in July. Army spokesman Lt. Col. confirmed the Sunday evening discussions, which he described as a regular meeting to take updates after any disturbance. He did not provide details when presented with additional questions about decision-making at that meeting.

Hasina could not be reached and her son and advisor, Sajeeb Wazed, did not respond to repeated requests for comment.

Also read | Bangladesh Army chief unveils plan to restore normalcy in country

Reuters spoke to ten people familiar with the events of the past week, including four serving army officers and two other informed sources in Bangladesh, to piece together the final 48 hours of Hasina's reign. Many of them spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. Hasina, who has ruled Bangladesh for 20 of the last 30 years, was elected to a fourth term leading the country of 170 million in January, after arresting thousands of opposition leaders and workers. That election was boycotted by her main rivals. Her iron-fisted grasp on power has been challenged since summer by protests triggered by a court ruling to reserve government jobs - heavily coveted amid high youth unemployment - for certain segments of the population. The decision was overturned but the demonstrations had quickly morphed into a movement to oust Hasina.

Zaman has not publicly explained his decision to withdraw support from Hasina. But the scale of the protests and a death toll of at least 241 made supporting Hasina at all costs untenable, three former senior Bangladesh army officers told Reuters.

"There was a lot of uneasiness within the troops," said retired Brig. Gen. M. Sakhawat Hossain. "That is what probably (put) pressure on the chief of army staff, because the troops are out and they are seeing what is happening."

Zaman, who is related to Hasina by marriage, had showed signs of wavering in his support for the prime minister on Saturday, when he sat on an ornate wooden chair and addressed hundreds of uniformed officers in a town hall meeting. The military later made some details of that discussion public.

The general declared that lives had to be protected and called on his officers to show patience, said army spokesman Chowdhury.

It was the first indication that Bangladesh's army would not forcefully suppress the violent demonstrations, leaving Hasina vulnerable.

Retired senior soldiers such as Brig. Gen. Mohammad Shahedul Anam Khan were among those who defied the curfew on Monday and took to the streets.

"We were not stopped by the army," said Khan, a former infantry soldier. The army has done what he had promised the army would do.

'SHORT NOTICE'

On Monday, the first full day of the indefinite nationwide curfew, Hasina was holed up inside the Ganabhaban, or "People's Palace", a heavily-guarded complex in the capital Dhaka that serves as her official residence.

Outside, on the streets of the sprawling city, crowds gathered. Tens of thousands of people had answered protest leaders' call for a march to oust the leader, streaming into the heart of the city.

With the situation spiralling out of her control, the 76-year-old leader decided to flee the country on Monday morning, according to the Indian official and two Bangladesh nationals familiar with the matter.

Hasina and her sister, who lives in London but was in Dhaka at the time, discussed the matter and flew out together, according to a Bangladesh source. They left for India around lunch, local time.

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told parliament on Tuesday that New Delhi had urged "various political forces with whom we were in touch" to resolve the situation via dialogue throughout July.

But as crowds gathered in Dhaka on Monday ignoring the curfew, Hasina decided to resign "after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment", he added. "At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India." A second Indian official said it was "diplomatically" conveyed to Hasina that her stay had to be temporary for fear of negatively impacting Delhi's ties with the next government in Dhaka. India's Ministry of External Affairs did not immediately return a request for comment.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, whom the protesting students want to lead the interim government after Hasina's ouster, told The New Indian Express newspaper that India had "good ties with the wrong people... Please revisit your foreign policy."

Yunus wasn't immediately available for an interview.

Late in the afternoon on Monday, a Bangladesh Air Force C130 transport aircraft landed at Hindon air base outside Delhi, with Hasina on board.

There, she was met by Ajit Doval, India's powerful national security advisor, according to the Indian security official.

Delhi had fought to carve Bangladesh out of East Pakistan in 1971. After Hasina's father was assassinated in 1975, Hasina took refuge in India for years and built deep links with her neighbour's political elite.

Returning to Bangladesh, she gained power in 1996, and was seen as more sensitive to India's security concerns than her political rivals. The Hindu-majority nation also regarded her secular stance as favourable for the 13 million Hindus in Bangladesh.

But back in Bangladesh, resentment still lingered even among retired soldiers that Hasina had been allowed to leave.

"Personally, I feel that she should not have been given a safe passage," said Khan, the veteran. That was a folly.
Bhopal, Noted actor Raza Murad on Wednesday said a situation like that unfolding in neighbouring Bangladesh will never be seen in India as our armed forces are disciplined and steer clear of politics. Congress leader Salman Khurshid kicked off a row a day ago with his statement that though "everything may look normal on the surface", what is happening in Bangladesh could happen in India too. "Such a thing will not happen here. People have the right to express their opinion in democracy and he has expressed his views, but my firm opinion is that it won't happen in India and it should not take place," Murad told PTI here when asked about Khurshid's remarks. "Our military has nothing to do with politics and it performs its duty with utmost responsibility. It never crosses the line..... it always comes forward to help people in natural calamities like floods, storms and earthquakes," the actor added. Talking about the situation in Bangladesh, Murad said in his 73-year-long life he had never seen scenes like people entering the prime minister's residence and looting furniture. "People may not agree with her politically, but she is 75, and like a mother. They should not have disrespected her in such a manner," he said. On objections about ` vulgarity' in the content of OTT platforms, the veteran actor said these shows contain foul language and depict women as characterless. "This all disturbs the atmosphere. It is only an attempt to earn money. I want to ask those who are making such content, can you watch it with your family? The `Lakshman Rekha' is being crossed again and again....Such content should be banned, and legal action must be taken," he said. "Objectionable words are expunged even from our parliamentary proceedings.....OTT content is shown across the world, is it Indian culture? What impression are we giving about the country?" he said. Asked about Madhya Pradesh emerging as a major film production center, Murad said producers must employ at least 20 percent local artists, especially when they are taking subsidies from the state government. He also expressed dismay over the way wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics after being found overweight ahead of her women's 50 kg final, leaving her medal-less within hours of coming close to an unparalleled gold. "Still, we are proud of her achievement and she is the biggest heroine for the country," he added.

Bangladesh-kind of situation will never be seen in India: actor Raza Murad
Bangladeshs incoming interim leader Muhammad Yunus appealed for calm Wednesday and urged all parties to help the country rebuild after weeks of violence that killed hundreds and prompted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to India. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus waves to the media at Charles de Gaulle's airport in Roissy, north of Paris, Wednesday. (AP)

Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was in Paris for the Olympics when he was named interim leader following talks among military officials, civic leaders and the student activists who led the uprising against a prime minister seen as increasingly autocratic. Yunus made his first public comments in Paris on Wednesday before boarding a plane to return home.

He congratulated the student protesters, saying they had made our second Victory Day possible, and appealed to them and other stakeholders to remain peaceful, while condemning any violence since Hasinas resignation Monday.

Violence is our enemy. Please dont create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country, Yunus said.

Bangladeshs military chief, Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a televised address that Yunus would be sworn in Thursday night and that he expected him to usher in a beautiful democratic process. The military leader said that those responsible for violence since Hasinas resignation would be brought to justice.

Yunus, who was awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for his work developing microcredit markets, told reporters in Paris: Im looking forward to going back home and seeing whats happening there, and how we can organize ourselves to get out of the trouble that we are in.

Asked when elections would be held, he put his hands up as if to indicate it was too early to say. Ill go and talk to them. Im just fresh in this whole area.

A tribunal in Dhaka earlier on Wednesday acquitted Yunus in a labor law violation case, involving a telecommunication company he founded, in which he was convicted and sentenced to six months in jail. He had been released on bail in the case.

Ailing opposition leader and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia also urged calm on Wednesday, a day after the country's figurehead president ordered her release from house arrest.

Zia urged her supporters not to follow a path of destruction, in an address at a rally via video link from her hospital bed. It was her first public speech since 2018, when she was convicted of corruption charges and jailed.

No destruction, no anger, and no revenge, we need love and peace to rebuild our country, she told members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.

Zia's son and the acting head of the party, Tarique Rahman also addressed the crowd online from London, where he has been living in exile since 2008. Rahman faces several criminal cases and was convicted of corruption and a grenade attack, charges dismissed by supporters as politically motivated.

Zia, who ruled the country from 2001 to 2006, had been sentenced in 2018 to 17 years in prison. Her party said the case was aimed at keeipng her away from politics. Hasina's then-government denied the allegation.

On Wednesday, the capital Dhaka was calm two days after violence gripped the country amid Hasinas sudden departure. Students activists cleaned streets and managed traffic in parts of Dhaka, after police went on strike earlier in the week following violent attacks on police stations.

The countrys newly appointed police chief, Mainul Islam, ordered officers to return to work by Thursday evening.

Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin, a symbolic figure temporarily acting as the chief executive under the constitution, asked security officials on Wednesday to take stern action against any troublemakers.

The president had dissolved Parliament on Tuesday, clearing the path for an interim administration that is expected to schedule new elections, but it's not clear when they will take place.

Shahabuddin named Yunus as the head of an interim government in consultation with the army, student leaders and other stakeholders. Yunus, an economist and banker, has been a longtime opponent of Hasina, who had called him a bloodsucker allegedly for using force to extract loan repayments from rural poor, mainly women. Yunus has denied the allegations.

Violence in days surrounding Hasinas 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. Reports said more attacks took place across the country also on Tuesday. The looting of firearms also was reported in local media.

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.

Homes of former ministers and MPs belonging to Hasina's party were looted, torched or vandalized. People were seen on social media taking valuables from the home of Hasinas younger sister in Dhakas Gulshan area. Four separate neighbors confirmed the looting in comments to The Associated Press.

Local media also reported that ruling party officials were among the dead in this week's violence, mostly outside Dhaka. There also were reports of violence against the Hindu community and other minorities, triggering condemnation from Human Rights Watch. Details of that violence could not be independently confirmed.

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 unrest began in July with protests against a quota system for government jobs, which critics said favored people with connections to Hasina's party. But they soon grew into a broader challenge to Hasinas 15-year rule, which was marked by human rights abuses, corruption, allegations of rigged elections and a brutal crackdown on her opponents. More than 300 people died in just a few weeks.

The quick move to choose Yunus came when Hasinas 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, which took temporary control until the interim government could be sworn in, wields significant influence in a country that has seen more than 20 coups or coup attempts since its independence from Pakistan in 1971.

Many fear that Hasinas 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 a complex strategic relationship with India, China and the United States.

Hasina, 76, was elected to a fourth consecutive term in January, in an election boycotted by her main opponents. Thousands of opposition members were jailed before the vote, and the U.S. and U.K. denounced the result as not credible.
Toronto: The Canadian government is seeking to reduce the use of temporary foreign workers in the country along with remedial measures to prevent fraud and abuse in the system. Travellers at Vancouver International Airport in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Bloomberg)

Some of the intended actions were outlined during a meeting with business representatives, according to a release from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). That meeting was led by Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, who said, Bad actors are taking advantage of people and compromising the programme for legitimate businesses. We are putting more reforms in place to stop misuse and fraud from entering the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

The Minister said Ottawa 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.

The release said the meeting was meant to send 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.

ESDC said the TFW Program was designed to be responsive to changes in the labour market. After the Covid-19 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, it said.

The announcement comes as pressure mounts on the Government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to control temporary immigration, which also includes those on study permits. High levels of immigration have led to a shelter affordability crisis in Canada and hurt Trudeaus Liberal Party Government politically.

The news outlet Globe and Mail reported that at the end of 2023, nearly 190,000 people held valid work permits through the TFW program, an increase of 157% from 2019.

It also reported earlier that in the first quarter of this year, employers received government approval to hire 28,730 people through the low-wage stream, an increase of 25% from 2023, the highest quarterly number for such approvals in government records that date to 2016.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) data, there were 183,760 TFWP permits holders in 2023, with those from India comprising 28,215 of them. Till June this year, Indians accounted for 17,095 of the 109,840 permit holders.

In comparison, prior to the Trudeau government assuming charge in late 2015, the numbers were much smaller: Indians formed 1955 of the overall 72,960 TFWP work permits holders that year.

Om March 21 this year, IRCC announced its intent to curb the intake of non-permanent residents (NPRs) to reduce their share of the population from 6.2% to 5% over three years.

However, in its Monetary Policy Report released on July 24, Bank of Canada (BoC) offered a distinctly different read of the situation, as it said, Overall, this implied that the annual population growth rate would decline by about 2 percentage points in 2025 and 2026. NPRs represented 6.8% of the population at the beginning of April  much higher than at the time of the March announcement  and the share is expected to continue rising over the near term. This suggests that it will take longer for planned policies to reduce NPR inflows to achieve the 5% target.

NPRs comprise international students, temporary workers and refugees with the first category contributing the bulk.
Since the end of the Cold War, the rich worlds corporate giants have been the dominant force in global commerce. Today consumers and workers in almost every country are touched in some way by the world-spanning operations of multinational firms from America, Europe and, to a lesser extent, Japan. These leviathans are now under threat, as Chinese firms in industries from cars to clothing expand abroad with startling speed. A new commercial contest has begun. Its battleground is neither China nor the rich world, but the fast-growing economies of the global south .

The expansion of Chinese business is taking two forms. One is through globalised supply chains. Greenfield foreign direct investment by Chinese firms tripled last year, to $160bn. Much of that was spent building factories in countries from Malaysia to Morocco. Less noticed is the fact that Chinese firms are also pursuing the 5bn consumers who live in the rest of the developing world. Since 2016, listed Chinese firms have quadrupled their sales in the global south, to $800bn, and now sell more there than in rich countries. For the West, attempting to deal with Chinas rise, that holds uncomfortable lessons.

Chinese businesses are looking abroad partly because of slowing economic growth and ferocious competition at home. They are chipping away at the dominance of incumbent multinationals everywhere from Indonesia to Nigeria. Transsion, an electronics firm, produces half of the smartphones purchased by Africans. Mindray is the leading supplier of patient-monitoring systems in Latin America. Chinese makers of electric vehicles (EVs) and wind turbines are expanding in the developing world, which also happens to be home to nine of TikToks ten biggest markets.

The precise shape of Chinese expansion is, however, a consequence of the policies of governments in the West and China. As rich countries erect trade barriers to keep out Chinese goods, including solar panels and EVs, some Chinese firms are attempting to skirt restrictions by shifting production to the global south. At the same time, selling to emerging markets in their own right has become more attractive, too. The companies path has been smoothed by the efforts of Chinas government to build diplomatic ties with the global south, notably by facilitating $1trn of infrastructure investment through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). As the West has turned inward, China and the rest of the emerging world have drawn closer.

At a time when globalisation is under attack, this holds an important lesson for policymakers: that trade can bring extraordinary benefits. Billions of lives will be enhanced by a wider choice of cheap, innovative and green goods. Transsions $100 smartphones mean that some of the worlds poorest people now have at their fingertips all the knowledge and services the internet has to offer. Affordable medical devices will save countless lives. Low-cost climate-friendly technologies make it more likely that developing countries will be able to keep their greenhouse gas emissions in check even as they get richer and their populations grow.

Another lesson is how costly it is to shelter incumbent Western multinationals from competition. Domestic rivalries mean that Chinese firms, once derided for turning out shoddy copycat products, have mastered the knack of producing goods for low-income consumers in a way that Western companies never did. Chinese firms are now at the cutting edge of EVs and batteries, precisely the sorts of industries rich-world governments coddle at home. The idea that Chinese brands lack global appeal has been shattered by companies such as Shein, a fast-fashion firm. Sales by Chinese companies in the global south have already overtaken those of Japanese multinationals. On current trends, they will pull ahead of European firms and be on par with American ones by 2030.

For governments in the global south, the lesson is more subtle. Policymakers in host countries have an opportunity to enrich their own consumers, create jobs, and foster innovation and competition. But to do so they will need to steer between protectionism on the one hand, and passivity on the other.

As in the West, local industries competing with Chinese companies will cite Chinas fondness for subsidies and seek special protection. Already, Brazil has introduced tariffs on EVS, and some Chinese exports are facing levies in Indonesia. Yet to shut out Chinese products would deprive consumers of the benefits of choice and innovation, and shield unproductive and stagnant local industries from competition. But policymakers should also beware of being too lax. Some have already been burnt as BRI debts went sour. Much of the business being done by Chinese firms in the global south today involves only final assembly. Many firms are reported to bring in Chinese workers, rather than hire locally. For developing economies to truly benefit, they should press Chinese firms to employ more local workers, share technology and heed local environmental and labour standards.

China may well go along with this. Over the years American and Japanese multinationals saw the benefits of training up local staff and imparting know-how, as they sought to be nearer their end markets, reduce costs and avoid a backlash from angry locals. Chinese firms may similarly come to see the benefits of establishing deeper roots in the emerging world. And just as closer commercial ties enhanced the soft power of America and Japan in the late 20th century, so too may China wield greater influence in the global south.

Cede capital

For decades the West was the worlds fiercest advocate for globalisation. The consequences of its decision to turn inward to shield itself from Chinese competition will take years to become completely clear. But the world is not standing still. Western multinationals have long been the main agents of cross-border trade and investment, and some of the biggest beneficiaries of openness. Today they are surrendering ground in the worlds fastest-growing and most populous markets. China is already reaping the rewards.

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 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
Toronto: Community organisations in Canada have expressed alarm and sought action from Ottawa after reports of atrocities against the Hindu minority in the country following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina from the Prime Ministership and an interim government assuming charge in Dhaka. People gather around the residence of Bangladeshi prime minister in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Monday. (PTI)

In a post, the Coalition of Hindus of North America of CoHNAs Canadian chapter said, The Hindu population in Bangladesh is currently facing extreme vulnerability and fighting for their survival.

This came after the turmoil in the country after Hasina fled to India and reports emerged of temples, homes and businesses of Hindus being attacked as well as those of murders by extremist elements.

CoHNA has started a campaign on Tuesday calling upon concerned Canadians to write to their elected representatives seeking a public statement condemning the violence and the human rights violations against the minority Hindus of Bangladesh. It urged Minister of Foreign Affairs, Melanie Joly, and the Global Affairs Canada, the countrys foreign ministry, to proactively monitor the situation, especially for targeting of people based on religion and gender. It asked the Canadian government to ensure the Bangladeshi authorities protect their Hindu citizens and hold the perpetrators of the violence accountable. It urged Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to facilitate the faster resettlement of the most vulnerable among the Bangladeshi Hindus under the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP).

The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) endorsed the CoHNA action alert so as to bring this crisis to the attention of Canadas elected officials.

CIJA shares the concerns of Canadas Bengali and Hindu communities, who are watching in horror as large-scale violence has broken out in the past few days targeting Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Religious minorities in Bangladesh are being targeted in violent attacks. Dozens of Bangladeshi Hindus have been killed, several temples destroyed, homes and businesses of Hindus systematically vandalised, set on fire, it added.

Meanwhile, the advocacy group, Bangladeshi Canadian Hindus is planning a vigil for the victims of the violence as well as a protest in Toronto later this week.

The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC) said it was deeply concerned about the escalating situation and its impact on the Hindu community in Bangladesh.

We urge the international community to monitor the situation closely and to advocate for the protection of vulnerable populations in Bangladesh, CHCC said in a release.

On Monday, Canadas Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly called for a quick and peaceful return to a democratic and inclusive civilian-led government in Bangladesh.
The family of a French explorer who died in a submersible implosion has filed a more than $50 million lawsuit, saying the crew experienced terror and mental anguish before the disaster and accusing the subs operator of gross negligence. Debris from the Titan submersible, recovered from the ocean floor near the wreck of the Titanic. (AP/File)

Paul-Henri Nargeolet was among five people who died when the Titan submersible imploded during a voyage to the famed Titanic wreck site in the North Atlantic in June 2023. No one survived the trip aboard the experimental submersible owned by OceanGate, a company in Washington state that has since suspended operations.

Known as Mr. Titanic, Nargeolet participated in 37 dives to the Titanic site, the most of any diver in the world, according to the lawsuit. He was regarded as one of the worlds most knowledgeable people about the famous wreck. Attorneys for his estate said in an emailed statement that the doomed submersible had a troubled history, and that OceanGate failed to disclose key facts about the vessel and its durability.

According to the lawsuit, the Titan dropped weights about 90 minutes into its dive, indicating the team had aborted or attempted to abort the dive.

While the exact cause of failure may never be determined, experts agree that the Titans crew would have realized exactly what was happening, the lawsuit states. Common sense dictates that the crew were well aware they were going to die, before dying.

The lawsuit goes on to say: The crew may well have heard the carbon fibers crackling noise grow more intense as the weight of the water pressed on Titans hull. The crew lost communications and perhaps power as well. By experts reckoning, they would have continued to descend, in full knowledge of the vessels irreversible failures, experiencing terror and mental anguish prior to the Titan ultimately imploding.

A spokesperson for OceanGate declined to comment on the lawsuit, which was filed Tuesday in King County, Washington. The lawsuit describes Nargeolet as an employee of OceanGate and a crew member on the Titan.

The suit also criticizes Titans hip, contemporary, wireless electronics system, and states that none of the controller, controls or gauges would work without a constant source of power and a wireless signal.

Though OceanGate designated Nargeolet as a member of the crew, "many of the particulars about the vessels flaws and shortcomings were not disclosed and were purposely concealed, the attorneys, the Buzbee Law Firm of Houston, Texas, said in their statement.

Tony Buzbee, one of the attorneys on the case, said one of the suit's goals is to get answers for the family as to exactly how this happened, who all were involved, and how those involved could allow this to happen.

Concerns were raised in the aftermath of the disaster about whether the Titan was doomed due to its unconventional design and its creators refusal to submit to independent checks that are standard in the industry. Its implosion also raised questions about the viability and future of private deep-sea exploration.

The U.S. Coast Guard quickly convened a high-level investigation, which is ongoing. A key public hearing that is part of the investigation is scheduled to take place in September.

The Titan made its last dive on June 18, 2023, a Sunday morning, and lost contact with its support vessel about two hours later. After a search and rescue mission that drew attention around the world, the wreckage of the Titan was found on the ocean floor about 984 feet (300 meters) off the bow of the Titanic, about 435 miles (700 kilometers) south of St. Johns, Newfoundland.

OceanGate CEO and cofounder Stockton Rush was operating the Titan when it imploded. In addition to Rush and Nargeolet, the implosion killed British adventurer Hamish Harding and two members of a prominent Pakistani family, Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood.

The company that owns the salvage rights to the Titanic is in the midst of its first voyage to the wreckage site in years. Last month, RMS Titanic Inc., a Georgia-based firm, launched its first expedition to the site since 2010 from Providence, Rhode Island.

Nargeolet was director of underwater research for RMS Titanic. One of the expeditions Nargeolet took was the first visit to the Titanic in 1987, shortly after its location was discovered, the lawsuit states. His estate's attorneys described him as a seasoned veteran of underwater exploration who would not have participated in the Titan expedition if the company had been more transparent.

The lawsuit blames the implosion on the persistent carelessness, recklessness and negligence of Oceangate, Rush and others.

Decedent Nargeolet may have died doing what he loved to do, but his death  and the deaths of the other Titan crew members  was wrongful, the lawsuit states.
NEW YORK  Former Bennington College head Mariko Silver was hired Wednesday as president of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Former Bennington College head Mariko Silver to become Lincoln Center president in September

The 46-year-old replaces Henry Timms, who is leaving after five years. Silver will start Sept. 23.

I grew up in the glow of Lincoln Center and the arts were so important to me in formulating who I am and what I hope to bring to the world, Silver said Wednesday.

Silver will join planning that has begun for a redevelopment of the western side of Lincoln Center's campus, for six decades far less visible than the eastern side in which most people enter from Broadway.

The opportunity to build that bridge and to create a whole new inspiring and aspirational focal point for Lincoln Center, for New York City, for the performing arts, is just extraordinary, she said. It will absolutely move forward.

Lincoln Center is the home of 11 arts organizations, including the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic and New York City Ballet. Under Timms and Shanta Thake, hired in 2021 as chief artistic officer, Lincoln Center has de-emphasized classical music in its own programming and promoted a variety of genres, some pay-as-you-wish.

We want to make Lincoln Center inspirational and aspirational for everyone, and there are so many different ways to do that, she said. "We are devoted to the classical arts. Of course, that is a core of what the Lincoln Center does.

Silver received a bachelor's degree from Yale, a master's degree from the University of Sussex in Britain and a doctorate in economic geography from UCLA. She worked in the administrations at Arizona State and Columbia, then served in the Obama administration as acting assistant secretary for international affairs and deputy assistant secretary for international policy in the Department of Homeland Security.

She was president of Bennington from July 2013 until July 2019, when she quit to become president of the Henry Luce Foundation.

Silver remembered attending Lincoln Center events growing up, including The Nutcracker, Sarafina! Cecilia Bartoli at the Met in "Cosi Fan Tutte and Anything Goes, starring Patti LuPone.

I saw it three times, Silver said.

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Police managed to narrowly foil an ISIS-linked plot to attack a Taylor Swift concert in Austria, reports have claimed. Two suspects were arrested on Wednesday, August 7. ISIS-linked plot to attack a Taylor Swift concert in Austria narrowly foiled by police (Photo by Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP, File)(Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP)

Among the suspects were a 19-year-old living in his parents home near Vienna, and another man. Police nabbed them after raiding the home. The Austrian outlet Kronen Zeitung reported that police found various chemicals and substances at the home, which were potentially being used to make explosives.

The suspects were believed to have been planning to target Swifts concerts at Viennas Ernst Happel Stadium, where she will be performing as part of her Eras Tour. The shows are scheduled for Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

The suspected perpetrator was focused on the Taylor Swift concerts. Preparatory actions were detected, said Austrian Director General for Public Safety Franz Ruf.

A concrete threat has been averted, he added. Ruf also said that the concerts have still not been declared completely safe by authorities. Other accomplices are still being investigated, and security plans at the concerts have been increased.

The 19-year-old suspect possibly pledged allegiance to ISIS back in July. He is an Austrian national. Both the suspects are believed to have become radicalised online.

Swift's Austrian show promoter Barracuda announced the news in an Instagram post. With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety, the show promoter wrote.

When Morgan Wallens concert was delayed due to threats

This incident comes just days after Morgan Wallens concert in Kansas City had to be delayed due to terroristic threat. A man was arrested in connection with a threat posted on social media. The post said that the suspect was targeting two men who were backstage with Wallen, suggesting that they were Patrick Mahomes, and Swifts boyfriend Travis Kelce.

The suspect, Aaron Brown III, 23, of Winchester, Illinois, was charged with the Class E felony of making a terroristic threat in the second degree. He allegedly threatened to shoot two members of the Kansas City Chiefs organisation who were at the concert at Arrowhead Stadium.
RAMALLAH, West Bank, - Israeli forces raided the Balata refugee camp near the city of Nablus on Wednesday and destroyed the local headquarters of the Fatah faction, Palestinian authorities said, as security forces continued sweeps in the occupied West Bank. Israeli forces continue West Bank raids

The violence in the West Bank underlined the volatile situation facing Israel as it braces for an expected attack by Iran and its proxies following the assassination of a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut and the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of the Islamist movement Hamas in Tehran last week.

No casualties were reported in Wednesday's raid, which came a day after at least 11 Palestinians were killed in clashes with security forces carrying out raids around the flashpoint city of Jenin, in the northern West Bank.

Islamic Jihad, an Iranian-backed militant movement which is very active in the area, said four Palestinians killed by a drone strike in Jenin during the raid on Tuesday were members of its armed wing. In addition, it said a man killed in the neighbouring city of Tubas in the early hours of Wednesday morning was also a member of its armed section.

Overnight, violent groups of Jewish settlers raided a Palestinian village near Nablus, destroying property but causing no casualties, residents said.

Israeli forces have carried out repeated raids in the West Bank since the start of the war in Gaza last October, arresting thousands of suspects and clashing repeatedly with armed fighters from militant factions, including Hamas, Fatah and Islamic Jihad.

Many are based in densely packed urban townships like Balata in Nablus or similar areas in cities like Jenin that were originally built as refugee camps for Palestinians who were driven from their homes or who fled during the 1948 war at the time of the creation of the state of Israel.

The Palestinian health ministry said 620 Palestinians had been killed in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since the start of the war in Gaza. The figure included 145 minors and women, the ministry said.

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An Air Dynasty helicopter crashed in the Shivpuri area of Nuwakot disctrict in Nepal on Wednesday afternoon, confirmed authorities. The helicopter had departed from Kathmandu and was en route to Syaphrubensi, local media reported. Air Dynasty helicopter (Representational image)

The helicopter was piloted by senior captain Arun Malla, and lost contact with the ground staff just three minutes after its take off.

There were a total of five people on board the chopper when it took off, including four Chinese nationals and the pilot. The Chinese nationals were on their way to Rasuwa, reported local media.

Local media outlet, citing the souces at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), said that the helicopter departed from Kathmandu at 1:54 pm on Wednesday. The chopper lost contact with the authorities at around 1:57, after reaching Surya Chaur.

Rescue operations are being conducted on the fiery crash site. News agencies have confirmed that all five passengers on the chopper, including the pilot, have died in the crash.

Rescuers have reached the crash site in the Suryachaur area, which is just northwest of Kathmandu. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), a Prabhu helicopter (9N-ANL) was dispatched to the crash site immediately after the incident.

Citing a police official, the paper said that the bodies of two men, one woman and the pilot, identified as Arun Malla, were recovered from the crash site. One body has not been identified yet as it is charred beyond recognition, Myrepublica reported.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Shantiraj Koirala, at the District Police Office, Nuwakot, who reached the crash site, confirmed that five bodies had been recovered.

This crash comes just weeks after the Saurya Airlines plane crash at the Tribhuvan International Airport on July 24. The crash claimed the lives of 18 people on board, with the captain being the sole survivor. This latest incident raises serious concerns about air safety over the skies of the Himalayan nation, which has witnessed numerous air crashes in recent years.

(With inputs from PTI)
Pakistan said on Wednesday it stands in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh after prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country following weeks of violent anti-quota protests that eventually demanded her resignation. Pakistan hoped that resilience of the people will lead them to a harmonious future.(HT_PRINT)

We are confident that the resilient spirit and unity of the Bangladeshi people will lead them towards a harmonious future, the Pakistan ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement.

Pakistan also said it is sincerely hoping for a peaceful and swift return to normalcy.

Student leaders, politicians, the President and the Army chief met together and decided to dissolve the Parliament.

Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate and economist, has accepted the proposal by the student protesters to be the chief advisor to the new interim government.

Pakistan behind protests in Bangladesh?

Weeks of protests against a controversial government quota system, that reserved 30% jobs in public services for kins of liberation war veterans, tuned violent as the Awami League government unleased brutal suppression of dissent. Schools and universities were shut as connectivity and public services were affected for weeks. Former PM Sheikh Hasina accused the main opposition party Bangladesh National Party (BNP) led by former PM Khaleda Zia and Islami Chhatra Shibir, the student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh of instigating deadly violence.

Jaamat-e-Islami is believed to have the backing of Pakistan's intelligence agency the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). India Today reported that many students from the Jaamat's student league have secured admission across various universities of Bangladesh.

Also read | Bangladesh Army refused to suppress protest hours before Sheikh Hasina fled to India

Many members of the Jaamat have reportedly joined the protest in the garb of students with fake identities and also instigated violence on social media. The Awami League government had banned the party recently.

The organisation is also believed to participate in activities of madrasas across Bangladesh. The recent India Out campaign, after Hasina won the allegedly rigged general election, is also believed to be the handwork of the Jaamat.

Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also raised the possibility of foreign forces behind the recent developments in Bangladesh.
BUCHAREST, - Romanian prosecutors arrested two hospital doctors they suspect murdered a patient by reducing critical blood pressure medication, they said on Wednesday, in a wider case concerning the deaths of 17 people. Romanian prosecutors arrest doctors suspected of murder by withholding medication

An employee of the St. Pantelimon clinical emergency hospital in the capital Bucharest publicly warned in April that 17 people died while in intensive care over four days after their medication was withheld.

At the time, the health ministry and doctors' association said the large number of deaths were an anomaly and that they could not find proof of medical blame.

Prosecutors opened a criminal investigation and on Wednesday they temporarily detained two doctors on suspicion of murder in the death of a 54-year-old patient.

The investigation is ongoing. A nurse was also detained for allegedly lying in her testimony.

The two doctors "conceived and executed a plan to suddenly reduce the dosage of noradrenaline, an essential medication to maintain blood pressure in intensive care, in order to ... trigger the death of patients who needed intensive care but who the accused thought should not be kept alive," prosecutors said in a statement.

Romania's healthcare system, one of the least developed within the European Union, has been dogged by corruption, politicised management and failed oversight.

The state has built one hospital in the last three decades, spends the least on healthcare in the EU and tens of thousands of doctors and nurses have emigrated.

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Bangladesh News LIVE: Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who was recommended by Bangladeshi student leaders as the head of the interim government in Bangladesh, stands at Paris Charles de Gaulle airport in Roissy-en-France, France August 7, 2024.

Bangladesh News Highlights: A day after former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed head of the interim government. According to the protesting leaders, they expect members of an interim government led by Yunus to be finalised on Wednesday. The appointment of Yunus came after a meeting held on late Tuesday that included student protest leaders, military chiefs, civil society members and business leaders....Read More

Hasina, who had ruled the country since 2009, resigned on Monday and landed at the Hindon Air Base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad on a C-130 transport aircraft - where she is living at a safe house. Media reports suggest that she is likely to go to London, where she may seek political asylum.

Here are the latest developments:

- The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President, AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon, has urged India to arrest Sheikh Hasina and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, and return them to Bangladesh.

- As the protests continued across the country, over 20 bodies of Hasina's party members have been found, reported The Dhaka Tribune.

- Amid political unrest in Bangladesh, an Air India flight from Dhaka carrying 199 passengers and six infants landed in Delhi early on Wednesday morning.

- On Tuesday, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament, paving the way for the formation of an interim government. The president also freed Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, a former prime minister and Hasina's arch-rival, from house arrest.

- Thousands of protesters who stormed Hasina's residence after her resignation, vandalised her mural in Dhaka. They also stormed the Bangladesh Consulate in New York to remove the Hasina's father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's portrait.

- 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, reported ANI.

- The United States has expressed deep concerns about the continued violence in Bangladesh, including attacks on members of religious or political groups, and said it will be vital for the new government to credibly investigate all such instances and provide justice to victims.
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled her country after resigning from her post and landed in India on Monday, August 5. However, Hasina and many members of her team did not have the time to carry their clothes and essentials after leaving the violence-torn country in a rush, reported ANI quoting people aware of the matter. 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)

Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana and other associates arrived in India on Monday in a C-130 J transport aircraft from Dhaka. The entourage came to India in a hurry to save their lives and did not carry any of their daily essentials, reported ANI.

The Indian protocol officials deployed with the entourage helped the members of Hasina's team to buy clothes and other items. The team members were in a state of shock due to the experience and scenes witnessed by them back home in the last few days, the report said.

The number of associates of the two sisters from the most reputed political family of Bangladesh are in double digits and they arrived in India along with her, according to the report.

Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval was constantly in touch with the officials and met Hasina as soon as she landed in Delhi. The team was provided immediate help and taken to safe houses in Delhi, they said.

When Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina, her sister and her entourage fled Dhaka just as the protestors in Bangladesh stormed her official residence and started ransacking all buildings and monuments associated with her party Awami League.

Shortly after Hasina's resignation, Bangladesh's army chief addressed the country and announced the formation of an interim government. The new government headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is set to take oath on Thursday.

Hasina is likely to stay in New Delhi for a few days till she seeks political asylum. Her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy said on Wednesday that she has not made any final calls on whether her plans for asylum are in the United States or the United Kingdom.

Joy further added that Hasina decided to leave Bangladesh not because she wanted to, but because her family was concerned for her safety.

"I was worried not because she was leaving Bangladesh, but because she didn't want to leave Bangladesh. We had to convince her. I said this is not a political movement anymore, this is a mob ... they are going to kill you," Joy said.

(With inputs from ANI)
* Shrapnel and blindness rob Gaza youngster of big dreams

Blinding ends girl's hopes of becoming doctor or teacher

*

Younger sister loses sight in one eye, brother also hurt

*

Wounds sustained in Israeli attack in southern Gaza

*

Mediators struggle to forge Israel-Hamas ceasefire

By Mohammed Salem

GAZA, - Palestinian teenager Maisa al-Ghandour had big dreams of becoming a doctor or teacher until she was blinded almost two weeks ago in an Israeli strike in war-ravaged Gaza.

"Now, I wish to die. We are not living a life in Gaza anymore; we are just hoping to die, our lives have become death," said Maisa, aged 14.

Maisa was wounded in an Israeli artillery strike at Eilabun High School in Al-Karara town, east of Gaza's Khan Younis city, on July 26, the family said.

"There are shrapnel fragments in our chests, abdomens, and faces," Maisa said, referring to wounds also suffered by sister Yara, 9, and brother Mohammed, 11.

"I hope we can go outside to receive treatment because there are no medicines here."

The family had taken shelter in the school after being displaced several times during Israel's 10-month-old offensive, which has killed about 39,600 Palestinians and wounded 91,535, according to Gaza health authorities.

Israel's campaign was triggered by an Oct. 7 cross-border raid led by Palestinian militant group Hamas in which some 1,200 Israelis and foreigners were killed and more than 250 taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies.

The day of the attack in Al-Karara started with some semblance of normality, the family said.

"We were good and beautiful, we started to play with our friends, we went there and stayed at the school. They have thrown two missiles on us, and we became like this," said Yara, who lost the sight in one eye in the attack.

MEMORIES OF BETTER TIMES

Israel says it goes to great lengths to avoid hitting civilians. It says Hamas uses Gaza's civilians as human shields by operating within densely populated areas, humanitarian zones, schools and hospitals, which Hamas denies.

The girls' mother, Ola al-Ghandour, sat beside Maisa as she cried. She held up a photograph on her phone of Maisa before the injuries. Her deaf son, Mohammed, sustained a head wound.

"I hope Maisa can regain her beauty; now she is disfigured and has lost her vision in both eyes. Yara has also lost her vision. They are both completely disfigured and have lost their beauty," she said.

Aside from bombardment, Palestinians face a humanitarian crisis with severe shortages of food, water, electricity and medicine in one of the most densely populated places on earth.

Mediators from Qatar, Egypt and the United States have failed repeatedly to ease the bloodshed, as the conflict keeps tensions on the boil around the Middle East.

At Gaza's Nasser Hospital, nurse Makram Awad recalled the Ghandour family's desperation when they arrived for treatment.

"Two days ago, the parents of these children came and asked for help, saying that worms were coming out of their children's heads. We did what we could with the limited medical supplies we have," said Awad.

"There are no bandages, plasters, or even the minimum medical supplies. I'm saying that worms came out of a child's head while he was alive and injured."

Awad urged "everyone with a sense of responsibility" to aid Gaza hospitals so they can provide a minimum level of treatment.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Nine family members died when an SUV ran off a South Florida road on Monday, August 5, and crashed into a guardrail before landing upside down in a canal. The deceased includes several children. One passenger was hospitalised in serious condition. 9 dead after SUV crashes into guardrail and lands upside down in Florida canal (Pixabay - representational image)

Ive been with the department for 20 years, and this is one of the most difficult scenes Ive been on, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Capt. Tom Reyes said, according to New York Post.

Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office shared a post about the heartbreaking incident on Facebook. 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 passed away. We have one survivor for a total of 10 victims, the sheriffs office wrote, offering their thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims.

Police said that the driver, Pamela Wiggins, was unable to negotiate the turn for undetermined reasons, resulting in the accident. The vehicle tumbled into the water after smashing into a guardrail and flipping. In the water, the SUV became so submerged that only its wheels were visible, Reyes said.

Who were the victims?

The victims include six children  1-year-old Naleia Tucker; 3-year-old Ziaire Mack; 5-year-olds Yasire Smith and Kamdien Edwards; 8-year-old Imani Andre Ajani Hall and 14-year-old Michael Anthony Hall Jr. The other deceased people include Leiana Alyse Hall, 30; Anyia Monique Lee Tucker, 21, and Wiggins. 26-year-old Jorden Rickey Hall is the only survivor, but is in serious condition at present.

The family was from Bridgeport, Connecticut and Chesapeake, Virginia. Their loved ones said they were visiting Florida for a family members birthday party.

Anntianette Edwards, who lost her son Kamdien, told WPBF that the tragedy took place on the final day of the trip. They were heading to the airport to come back to Connecticut, Anntianette said.

The car the family was driving was a 2023 Ford Explorer. As per Ford dealership websites, this vehicle has a maximum capacity of seven people. At the time of the accident, none of the passengers in the packed car were wearing seatbelts. The cause of the crash is being investigated.
Italian restaurant chain Buca di Beppo filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Monday, citing increased food and labour costs. The company, headquartered in Orlando, has just $10 million to $15 million in assets, in striking contrast to its $100 million in liabilities, according to its petition filed in Dallas. It is the latest popular restaurant to file for bankruptcy, joining the likes of Red Lobster. Popular Italian restaurant chain Buca di Beppo has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Buca di Beppo files for bankruptcy after weakened sales

Buca di Beppo plans to restructure 44 of its core locations, which are located across 14 states in the US. While the company still has a new location on the books, it has previously shut down 12 of its locations, per Reuters. The restaurant, which specialises in Italian-American food, was founded in 1993 and is a chain of 81 locations as a subsidiary of Planet Hollywood.

ALSO READ: Eric's feud with Harry and Meghan has a big link to Donald Trump as he calls them spoiled apples

Following the bankruptcy protection filing, Rich Saultz, the chain's president, said in a statement that this move is a strategic step towards a strong future for the company. While the restaurant industry has faced significant challenges, this move is the best next step for our brand. By restructuring with the continued support of our lenders, we are paving the way toward a reinvigorated future, Saultz added.

ALSO READ: Simone Biles makes shocking revelation about her body shutting down at 2024 Paris Olympics

The statement added that as Buca di Beppo undergoes the Chapter 11 process, it will continue serving food at its existing restaurants as usual. Chief Restructuring Officer William Snyder explained that the company is still open for business in 44 locations. We expect day-to-day operations to continue uninterrupted, Snyder continued, adding, We anticipate moving through this process as quickly and efficiently as possible to emerge as a stronger organization built for the future.
On Tuesday, Van Jones of CNN expressed doubts that antisemitism in the Democratic Party could have a bearing on the decision of Kamala Harris, Vice- President , not to choose Josh Shapiro, the Governor of Pennsylvania. However, Harris nominated Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, leaving many wondering if Shapiro, who was earlier considered a shoo-in, was ignored because of his Jewish origin. Van Jones expresses uncertainty about Kamala Harris's decision about choosing the VP(CNN)

Following the announcement, Jones expressed uncertainty about the reasons behind the decision. Is it just because hes a moderate, or is there some anti-Jewish bias here? Jones pondered, noting that Harriss choice of Walz comes from a state that hasnt supported a Republican presidential candidate since 1972.

You also have anti-Semitism that has gotten marbled into this party. You can be for the Palestinians without being an anti-Jewish bigot, but there are some anti-Jewish bigots out there.

ALSO READ| Donald Trump has only two words to tell Kamala Harris for picking Tim Walz as her running mate

He continued, And theres some disquiet now  and there has to be  how much of what just happened is caving into some of these darker parts of the party?

Shapiro has faced criticism from the far-left, particularly from anti-Israel factions within the Democratic Party, due to his past positions on the Israel-Palestine conflict.

30-year-old op-ed comes back to haunt Shapiro amid VP speculation

Recently, Shapiro was compelled to address a pro-Israel op-ed he wrote over 30 years ago as a college student. In the column, he recounted his experiences with the Israeli Defense Forces and expressed scepticism about the Palestinians' ability to establish a successful state. Shapiro wrote, Palestinians will not peacefully coexist, and suggested, they do not have the capabilities to establish their own homelands and make it successful even with the aid of Israel and the United States.

However, Manuel Bonder, Shapiros spokesperson, told Fox News Digital, 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.

ALSO READ| US polls: What Walz gets Harris, what he doesnt

Representative Jake Auchincloss of Massachusetts also defended Shapiro, condemning the attacks against him as having a strong undercurrent of antisemitism. He expressed his views on CNN: Some people had their hopes up.

Maybe youre going to get another shot at a Jewish vice president. We havent had that for two decades, and now that gets pulled away.
Former US President Donald Trump will be sitting for an interview with his biggest cheerleader billionaire CEO Elon Musk next week. Trump shared this news on his Truth Social media platform, teasing, "On Monday night I'll be doing a major interview with Elon Musk," with further details promised soon. FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are seen at the Firing Room Four after the launch of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon spacecraft on NASA's SpaceX Demo-2 mission to the International Space Station from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, U.S. May 30, 2020. (REUTERS)

This announcement follows a recent interview Trump did with live streamer Adin Ross at his Mar-a-Lago residence. The interview reportedly helped the streaming platform 'Kick' achieve a new record in viewership.

The time and exact details of Trump's interview with Musk are yet to be announced.

Also Read: Barron advised Trump to do an interview with Adin Ross

Last month, Musk, who owns the social media platform X, publicly endorsed Trump's presidential candidacy after Trump was injured in an attempted assassination in Pennsylvania. This endorsement marks a significant shift from the typically neutral stance maintained by leaders of major social media platforms. Since then Musk has been denouncing Kamala Harris and the Democrats.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk bonhomie

Trump's account on Twitter (now X) was permanently suspended following the January 6, 2021, attack on Capitol Hill. However, under Musk's ownership, the account has been reinstated.

According to a Wall Street Journal report, Musk has committed $45 million per month to a new political action committee supporting Trump. This committee, America PAC, will focus on voter outreach and registration to counterbalance the Democrats' robust campaign efforts.

Trump's scheduled discussion with Musk comes shortly after Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.

Musk's X under scanner amidst US election discourse

In related news, The Washington Post reported that five secretaries of state are preparing to send an open letter to Musk, urging immediate changes to X's AI chatbot Grok. The chatbot recently disseminated false information about Kamala Harris's eligibility for the 2024 presidential ballot. The letter, led by Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon and co-signed by Al Schmidt of Pennsylvania, Steve Hobbs of Washington, Jocelyn Benson of Michigan, and Maggie Toulouse Oliver of New Mexico, stresses the importance of accurate information for voters in this critical election year.

As the 2024 presidential race heats up, the Trump-Musk interview is anticipated to be a significant event, potentially influencing the dynamics of the ongoing election campaigns.
Elon Musks trans daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, in an attempt to get back to his father, rehashed his sordid past. She called her father a serial adulterer after Musk bashed her for her gender identity and anti-trans statements on X. Musk has 12 children including Vivians twin Griffin, from his three marriages. He also had twins from his first marriage with Justine Wilson. Elon Musk's trans daughter, Vivian Wilson called father a 'serial adulterer'.(Thread/vivllainous/File Image)

Also Read: Did Kamala Harris snub Josh Shapiro due to anti-Jewish bias? CNN commentator weighs in

Vivian accused Elon Musk of being a serial adulterer

Vivian attacked Musk on Instagram Threads on Monday where she called out her fathers various cheating scandals and kids. She wrote, You are not a family man, you are a serial adulterer who wont stop f**king lying about your own children. In the past, Musk was accused of having affairs with actor Amber Heard and Nicole Shanahawn, ex-wife of Google co-founder Sergey Brin, all of which were denied by him.

Vivian taunted her father on Threads as she continued, 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. She also called him out for being allegedly a racist, You called arabic the language of the enemy when I was 6, have been sued for discrimation [sic] multiple times, and are from Apartheid South Africa.

Vivian also called Musks concerns for the climate and planet a facade, she claimed that her father doesnt care about saving the planet and couldnt give a fk about climate change. She concluded her thoughts about Musk on Threads with, 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.

Also Read: Tropical Storm Debby dumps heavy rain on southeastern US, could cause 'catastrophic' flooding

Elon Musks woke mind virus comment related to Vivian

Vivians searing comments for her father came after Musk posted to destroy the woke society after he claimed 'killed' his son (trans daughter, Vivian). He meant killed by the woke-mind virus as the former decided to begin her gender reassignment surgery. In a Daily Wire interview, last month he said, I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys, Xavier.

This is before I had any understanding of what was going on. COVID was going on, so there was a lot of confusion, and I was told Xavier might commit suicide if he doesnt [make the change], the SpaceX founder told psychologist Dr Jordan Peterson during the interview. He further mentioned he lost his child and the acceptance of a procedure that gives children the facility to transition was incredibly evil.

Vivian brutally slammed Musks comments about her gender identity via Threads as she refused to use X owned by her father, she wrote, I look pretty good for a dead bitch. She also mentioned that it was she who disowned Musk and not the other way around.
Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will spend their first full day as running mates on Wednesday rallying Democrats across the Midwest, a politically divided region that is crucial to their effort to win the White House in less than three months. TOPSHOT - US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gorvernor Tim Walz greet their supporters as they arrive at Temple University's Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 6, 2024, on the first day of their "Battleground State Tour". (Photo by MATTHEW HATCHER / AFP)(AFP)

The trip, which begins in Wisconsin before shifting to Michigan, is aimed at shoring up support among the younger, diverse, labor-friendly voters who were instrumental in helping President Joe Biden win the 2020 election. But that coalition showed signs of fraying over the summer, particularly in Michigan, which has emerged as a focal point of Democratic divisions over Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

With Biden now out of the race and Harris officially the Democratic nominee, leaders of the Arab American community and key unions say they are encouraged by the choice. Walzs addition to the ticket has soothed some tensions, signaling to some community leaders that Harris heard concerns about another leading contender for the vice presidential slot, Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, who they felt had gone too far in his support for Israel.

The party is recognizing that theres a coalition they have to rebuild, said Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan. Picking Walz is another sign of good faith.

Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat seeking a third term, appeared with Harris at a campaign stop there last month in suburban Milwaukee, and said in a fundraising email Tuesday morning that she was thrilled to see a fellow Midwesterner at the top of the ticket.

Donald Trump had put a similar emphasis on appealing to voters in Midwestern states with his choice of Ohio Sen. JD Vance as his vice presidential pick. Vance will again bracket the Harris-Walz ticket with appearances in the same states on Wednesday. He is starting his day in Michigan before heading to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, the same city where the Democratic candidates will appear hours later before going to Michigan.

In Michigan, leaders say Democratic enthusiasm has surged since Harris announced her candidacy.

That could be pivotal in Detroit, which is nearly 80% Black, where leaders for months had warned administration officials that voter apathy could cost them in a city that's typically a stronghold for their party. Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the NAACP Detroit branch, said the excitement in the city now is mind-blowing. He likened it to Barack Obama's first run for president in 2008, when voters waited in long lines to help elect the nation's first Black president.

But some Democratic leaders in Michigan had grown concerned that choosing the wrong running mate could slow that momentum and fracture a coalition that has only recently started to unify.

Arab American leaders, who hold an outsized influence in Michigan due to a large presence in metro Detroit, had been vocal in their opposition to Shapiro due to his past comments regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Arab American leaders specifically pointed to a comment he made earlier this year regarding protests on university campuses, which they felt unfairly compared the actions of student protesters to those of white supremacists. Shapiro, who is Jewish, has criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while remaining a staunch supporter of Israel.

"Its certainly not antisemitic to critique somebodys position on Israeli policy, Hammoud said. Thats just called stewardship and accountability.

In addition to expressing those concerns publicly, leaders had also made their feelings known privately to the White House and Harris team.

Osama Siblani, the publisher of the Dearborn-based Arab American News and a prominent leader in Michigans large Muslim community, was among those who met with White House adviser Tom Perez in Michigan last week. Although Perez was in the state on official business, he has maintained contact with some Dearborn leaders since he and other top officials traveled there with Biden in an effort to mend ties with the community.

Siblani said he met with Perez for over an hour on July 29 and told him that if Harris chose Shapiro, it would shut down future conversations. He also conveyed this message to Democratic lawmakers in Congress, including Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell.

Pushback from Arab Americans and union leaders was not the only reason why she did not pick Shapiro, but it is one of the major reasons, said Siblani.

Not picking Shapiro is a very good step. It cracks the door open a little more for us, said Siblani, who along with Hammoud emphasized that any meaningful conversations must include policy discussions.

Michigan state Sen. Jeremy Moss, who is Jewish, was excited by the prospect of having Shapiro as a vice presidential candidate but was disturbed by the criticism he received, believing that many of the vetted candidates had similar views on Israel. He said he didn't believe the criticism played a role in Harris' decision and that shes choosing somebody based on this long game of who she can work with for four to eight years.

Still, Moss said he is glad the Harris-Walz ticket is not divisive and that the feeling of unity among Democrats is palpable on the ground.

The nation's largest auto workers' union, the United Auto Workers, also watched the vice presidential choice carefully.

They moved to endorse Harris quickly after she stepped in to replace Biden, and UAW President Shawn Fain said publicly that she had a right to choose her own running mate. But he also said the union, which has 370,000 members and a huge presence in Michigan and other Midwestern states, didn't favor Shapiro, who had previously joined with Pennsylvania Republicans in calling for an expansion of voucher programs that allow public tax dollars to flow to private schools.

Fain had singled out Walz  in addition to other candidates  for praise in an interview with The Associated Press on Aug. 2, saying the Minnesota governor was a brilliant guy, sharp guy. In a statement Tuesday, Fain said Walz will make a great vice president and that he has stood with the working class every step of the way.

Dingell, a Democrat with deep connections in Dearborn who has brokered some of the conversations between Biden administration officials and leaders of core constituencies in Michigan, echoed those sentiments Tuesday. She said the choice of Walz would only ramp up excitement at Wednesday's rally in Detroit.

We got somebody from the Midwest, from the heartland, that really understands our issues, said Dingell. And he will be a partner to her. She wont have to look over her shoulder every two minutes. He will be a total, true partner.
United States is bustling with startups and what can make a difference? Speed and efficiency off course. Dhruv Bindra, co-founder of the fashion-tech startup Styl to Personalized Women's Fashion, exemplifies this principle with his rapid hiring process, and internet is going into a spiral over it. Dhruv Bindra (L) and Ryan Mallick (R) the founders of Styl(X/Dhruv Bindra)

Styl, a mobile app that aims to revolutionize online fashion shopping with a Tinder-like interface, was co-founded by Bindra and his then-sophomores Duke University classmate Rayan Malik in 2022. The app allows users to swipe right to like and left to dislike clothing items from multiple brands, curating personalized recommendations based on user preferences. The startup has seen significant traction, boasting over 500 active monthly users and 1.5 million social media impressions since its launch.

Bindras lightning-fast hiring process at 2 a.m. came into the spotlight with he posted a tweet about the same. He recounted a hiring story of an eager applicant who reached out late at night: At 10pm I got an email and LinkedIn DM from an impressive student asking for an internship. At 12am I sent him a Zoom link. He hopped on, exchanged stories, and I told him about a feature I wanted to build out. At 2:46am he sent me completed designs. At 2:47am he was hired.

ALSO READ| 10 most expensive universities in the world that every Indian student must know about

Styl founder's hiring story sparks hilarious comments

And as usual internet can't keep themselves come and churning hilarious comments in the Styl founder's box. Like one commented, 3 AM, the cops come and he's escaped in one of their uniforms. He sends a Zoom link but he isn't there. He's on Meet. 30 min later, I text him on TG. He tells me to meet him by the Trocadero in Paris. I've been waiting. I've never hired another. He doesn't show up. He's gone to Berlin. That's where he stashed the designs, while another said, 2:50am he disappeared with the private keys...

2:48am you woke up and said that was a nice dream let me tweet about it, one witty user quipped.

However, many seemed unhappy with Bindra's post due to this ridiculous work hours. As one user wrote, This is sad. Don't promote this type of work culture.

Another piped in saying, Seen this garbage enuf times on LinkedIn, now its making its way here.

Dont get impressed by this toxic work culture. Maintain your work life balance! , one commented.

The Duke mates, Bindra and Malik, got their startup idea by observing their classmates' struggles with online shopping, envisioned Styl as a solution to the fragmented fashion e-commerce experience. What we didn't realize at that time is  we ended up chancing upon the solution to the biggest problem with fashion recommendations, Bindra told The Chronicle.

ALSO READ| Meet Beacon: Team USA's therapy dog is going viral with cuteness overloaded

Their focus on user-centric design and data-driven recommendations sets them apart in the competitive landscape.

As Styl continues to grow, the team remains committed to expanding thoughtfully. We want to grow longitudinally before horizontally,: Bindra explained. So we're really focused on keeping our user base as small as it needs to be. We're happy to grow, but not at the expense of distracting ourselves away from time that is best spent talking to users and building out new features.
JD Vance on Wednesday, August 7, tried to explain Donald Trumps questioning on Kamala Harris racial identity. He was subsequently questioned by a journalist, who asked him, "How can you fake your race?" Vance then went on to explain why he thinks Harris is fake. JD Vance calls Kamala Harris chameleon on being asked how she can fake her race (AP Photo/Adam Bettcher, Stephanie Scarbrough/Pool via REUTERS)

"She pretends to be one thing when she's in front of one audience, she pretends to be something else when she's in front of another audience, and I think [Trump] was observing the basic foundational reality that Kamala Harris pretends to be something different depending on which audience she's speaking to," Vance said in Michigan.

"She's a fake, he added.

Vance went on to compare Harris to "a chameleon." "I was not bothered at all by what President Trump said," Vance said. "We know she's a chameleon."

Vance was then asked, "If she's both Indian and Black, how can she fake her race?"

"She fakes who she is depending on the audience that she's in front of," Vance replied. That's who she is and that's who she always has been.

What did Donald Trump say about Kamala Harris racial identity?

Trump was asked by an interviewer at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Chicago if he agreed with Republicans on Capitol Hill who refer to Harris as DEI hire. In response, Trump said, She was always of Indian heritage, and she was only promoting Indian heritage. 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?

I respect either one, but she obviously doesnt, because she was Indian all the way, and then all of a sudden she made a turn and she went  she became a Black person, he said, adding, I think somebody should look into that too.

Speaking at a gathering of the Sigma Gamma Rho sorority in Houston, Harris later said that the former presidents comments were the same old show, the divisiveness and the disrespect. Let me just say, the American people deserve better, she added.

The Reuters Fact Check team later reported that Harris has always described her racial identity as Black, South Asian, Indian-American, African-American, and Jamaican-American. All of these stem from her parents identities. Trumps claim, thus, cannot be considered true.
JD Vance came under fire after making an awkward mistake at a rally on Tuesday, where he seemed to be endorsing Democratic opponent Kamala Harris. JD Vance addressed the Republican supporters at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday.(AP)

When Vance was addressing the Republican supporters at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, there was a stage backdrop reading, KAMALA CHAOS, behind him.

Unfortunately, the Ohio Senator's attempt to disparage Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, was completely ineffective since rally attendees partially covered the backdrop, making only the moniker KAMALA visible.

Netizens troll JD Vance, give him a solid advice

Social media users immediately notice the mistake, mocking Vance for seemingly endorsing his opponent.

Those people look extremely unhappy. Based on the sign, I guess they were expecting Kamala, one X user reacted.

So first he talked in front of Youre fired signs, commented another user, making reference to Trump's rally in Atlanta, Georgia. And now he speaks in front of a sign advertising his opponent.

Meanwhile, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) trolled Vance, stating: Here's why you should hire union stagehands and stage designers: (They did not).

EPIC TROLLLLLL #UnionsForAll, wrote one X user.

Fox News host Jessica Taylor also reacted to the viral incident. Yeah theyre definitely projecting that. I saw JD Vance this morning in front of a huge Kamala sign where you couldnt even read the chaos so everything is going really well for that side of the aisle, she stated.

Also Read: Trump says Tim Walz as Harris' running mate is a shocking pick

Several experts have been questioning if Donald Trump's running mate choice would have a negative impact on Republican's chances of winning the 2024 elections. This comes as Vance has been facing immense backlash over his resurfaced a bunch of childless cat ladies remarks against Democrats, including Kamala Harris.

Meanwhile, Harris named Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. The duo held a joint rally at Temple University's Licouras Center in Philadelphia. Addressing the crowd, Walz took aim at Vance, stating "If he's willing to get off the couch and show up, I can't wait to debate the guy."
A man has been accused of murdering his father and leaving the victims organs outside his body in a sleepy Connecticut town. This was the towns first murder in more than 20 years, and has been described by the suspects defence attorney as a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions. Steven James Uricchio (pictured) kills dad, leaves organs outside body in one of Connecticuts safest towns (Ridgefield Police Department)

On Saturday, August 3, authorities responded to a caller who claimed that he had hurt his father at a residence in Ridgefield. The suspect, 31-year-old Steven James Uricchio, was found by authorities outside the house, wearing a dark blue shirt with boxer shorts, his hands in the air, a police report obtained by the Hour said.

Uricchio appeared to have blood on his hands and was sweating. He was then instructed by cops to walk forward with his arms extended.

Authorities inspected Uricchio for weapons, and then went on to ask him about his dad, Marc Uricchio. I murdered him, said Uricchio, adding that he had killed him really, really badly.

This is a tragedy of Shakespearean dimensions

Investigators entered the house to find blood drops on the stairs and on both sides of the wall. At the top of the stairs lay a fillet knife covered in blood. 83-year-old Marc lay on the floor in his bedroom, according to cops.

Marc was pronounced dead at the scene. Both his groin and abdomen were mutilated. Some of his internal organs were discovered outside his body.

Police Capt. Jeffrey Raines told the News-Times that this horrific incident was Ridgefields first murder since 2003. The killing shakes the town up. This is a very safe community, he said.

Uricchio told officers a few hours after being arrested that he had problems in his stomach because of a quarter of a bottle of Advil he had earlier taken. He was then taken to Danbury Hospital for evaluation, where he told doctors he had been prescribed a medication that he had not taken in a month or two. He also confessed that he regularly used cannabis.

After being discharged from the hospital, Uricchio was taken back to Ridgefield police headquarters on suicide watch. On Monday, August 5, he was arraigned in Danbury Superior Court. He seemed almost catatonic and was carried into the courtroom.

Uricchio reportedly slumped with his head on the defence table and was asked by the judge to stand up. A nearby officer had to pull him to his feet.

Uricchios defence lawyer Willie Dow claimed that the suspect had significant mental health history. Dow agreed with the prosecutions request for mental health treatment and a competency evaluation. He also agreed that his client required continued suicide watch. The judge approved all of these.

This is a tragedy of Shakespearean dimensions. It has devastated the family as well as my client, Dow told News 12 Connecticut.

Uricchio is due back in court on September 4. He is at present being held on $1.5 million bail.
Team USA gymnastics team introduced Beacon as the most crucial member of their team. Beacon is a 4-year-old golden retriever who has been a constant companion of Team USA comprised of Simon Biles, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey and Hezly Rivera. Beacon is a therapy dog for the entire team during the stressful times of the Paris Olympics trials. However, he did not accompany the team to Paris due to logistic issues. Beacon is Team USA gymnastic's therapy dog.(@dog_rates)

Also Read: MyKayla Skinner begs Simone Biles to end cyberbullying: 'Please ask your followers'

Meet Team USAs therapy pet, Beacon

Beacon is the worst hever therapy dog of the USA gymnastics team and he senses peoples stress and knows how to soothe them, said his owner Tracey Callahan Molna to USA Today. The ball of golden fur played an important role in the gymnastics team of the USA as it carried the mental well-being of all the members during the Paris Olympics trials. The Goodest Boy of the team sometimes even put in 15 hours a day as he was always on duty during the trials for the Olympic team, as reported by ESPN Sports.

Molnar, who herself was a gymnast realised some athletes could use her pets love and has a sense of which members of the team require it the most. While she realised that a dogs presence might not be exactly soothing for those who did not grow up with a dog, she brought Beacon for any who might be interested. She said, I watch the women and if theyre animated when they see him, Ill walk toward them.

Beacon is an intellectual and only four-legged part-time staff who understands when a team member needs him and responds to them even when not called by name. Molnar praised her pet, He will turn on a dime without seeing who it is. He picks up on the stress and will pull to that person immediately. She explained how the furball helped team members, They absorb the stress of the people theyre relieving the stress off of. So even though he might be lying still for two hours, hes wiped out afterwards.

Beacon has become an internet sensation with his adorable looks and much-needed service to team members.

Also Read: Michelle Obama cheers Simone Biles and Chiles amid viral photo controversy

The Beacon fan club

Beacon is an athlete's favourite therapist as one of the gymnasts demanded a promotion for him. Molnar said, One of the gymnasts suggested [Beacon] should be the CHO. That would be the Chief Happiness Officer.

Gold medalist Simone Biles also shared her love for Beacon, she said, Even this morning at 7 a.m., I saw my therapist, and theres a time change, so she is so amazing for allowing me to do that these couple of days here in Paris, after her all-round win. She added, So just making sure Im mentally well. I think you see that on the competition floor.

Also Read: Netizens find out Kamala Harris' running mate Tim Walz is a Swiftie VP: Here's how

Therapy pets in the field of sports

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington found that petting an animal for ten minutes can help reduce levels of cortisol, the bodys stress hormone, as well as focus on the present moment. Molnar guided about the use of therapy pets, she said, Petting a dog or even watching someone pet a dog, can lower blood pressure and anxiety, help increase the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine and lower cortisol levels. We all need a certain amount [of cortisol]. But too much isnt healthy.

Beacon is not the only pet in service to provide mental well-being to athletes informed chief communications and marketing officer at USA Gymnasts, Jill Geer. She said, Beacon is not the only dog. There are several other dogs, but Beacon is 100% the star of the show. He is literally the Beacon of this program. I joke that Beacon needs an agent, because there are more requests for Beacon than just about any other athlete out there.
Simon Biles and Jordan Chiles bowed to Brazillian athlete Rebecca Andrade in a sign of deference for winning the gold medal after defeating Team USA in gymnastics. However, Michelle Obama backed the two-star athletes in an opposing action to most Americans reactions when the picture of the gymnasts bowing went viral. Michelle Obama backed Simone Biles nad Jordan Chiles after criticism for bowing down to Brazillian gymnast.(@MichelleObama/X,Photo by Gabriel BOUYS / AFP))

Also Read: MyKayla Skinner begs Simone Biles to end cyberbullying: 'Please ask your followers'

Michelle Obama lends support to Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles

Raven defensive back Marlon Humphrey ripped Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles for bowing to Brazilian athlete Rebecca Andrade. He wrote in a post on X, This is literally disgusting, on Monday. Opposing this reaction, Michelle appreciated the gymnasts for winning the bronze medal for the country and displaying a good level of sportsmanship at the Paris Olympics. In a post on X, she wrote, Im still not over this beautiful moment of sisterhood and sportsmanship! You can just feel the love shining through these ladies. Congrats Rebeca, Jordan and Simone!

The three-time Pro Bowler was criticised for his opinion by netizens online and later he apologised for his remarks about Biles and Chiles in a follow-up post on Monday night, as reported by the New York Post. He wrote, Im lowkey getting cooked right now. I think Im getting cussed out in Brazilian on Instagram lol.

Also Read: Did Kamala Harris snub Josh Shapiro due to anti-Jewish bias? CNN commentator weighs in

Eventful Olympics for Chiles and Biles

The Paris Olympics have been an eventful trip for both the gymnasts as they led Team USA to win six medals in total. The tour was a redemption tour for Biles after the teams performance at the Tokyo Olympics. The gold medalist gymnast was the highlight of the Games with three gold medals and one silver medal. She also got involved in some social media drama with online trolling from trolls and former teammate, MyKayla Skinner who questioned her work ethic. However, she answered to all the hate with her gold medals.
By Joseph Ax Minnesota court upholds Walz-backed law restoring felons' right to vote

Aug 7 - The Minnesota Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld a law signed last year by Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential candidate, that restores the right to vote for felons who have completed their prison terms.

The court's unanimous ruling did not address the merits of the law, instead finding that the conservative group that had challenged the law, the Minnesota Voters Alliance, did not have the legal standing to do so.

In a statement, Doug Seaton, the president and founder of the Upper Midwest Law Center, which represented the alliance in court, said the decision "sidesteps the necessary constitutional scrutiny" of the law.

Walz, a two-term governor, was named the running mate for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris on Tuesday. The two were traveling to Wisconsin and Michigan on Wednesday during their first campaign swing as a White House ticket.

The law in question allows felons to vote after they have been released from prison, even if they remain on parole or probation. Incarcerated felons are not permitted to cast ballots in Minnesota.

The campaign of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump criticized Walz on Tuesday for supporting the law, even though Trump himself was convicted of 34 felonies in New York this year for falsifying business records to cover up a hush-money payment to a porn star.

Trump lives and votes in Florida, which defers to the jurisdiction where a conviction occurred when determining whether a felon can vote. Under New York law, similar to Minnesota, convicted felons such as Trump are permitted to vote unless they are incarcerated at the time of the election.

Trump has maintained his innocence and claimed without evidence that the New York case is part of a Democratic conspiracy against him.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
VP Kamala Harris' running mate Tim Walz made headlines earlier this year with the passage of the so-called Taylor Swift Bill. The legislation, which Walz signed into law during his tenure as Minnesota Governor, was inspired by his own struggles to secure tickets for Swifts highly anticipated Eras Tour. Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz walk out on stage together during a campaign event on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Andrew Harnik / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP)

In June the 60-year-old Minnesota Governor signed House File 1989named after Swifts birth year and the iconic albumat the iconic First Avenue concert venue in downtown Minneapolis. The law aims to provide greater transparency and protection for individuals purchasing tickets online for concerts, sporting events, and other live events in Minnesota.

ALSO READ| Did Kamala Harris snub Josh Shapiro due to anti-Jewish bias? CNN commentator weighs in

What is Taylor Swift Bill?

The new law mandates that ticket sellers disclose all fees upfront and prohibits resellers from selling multiple copies of the same ticket. It applies to tickets bought in Minnesota or other states for events held within Minnesota.

The bill was introduced following Walzs frustration over not being able to buy tickets for Swifts 2023 concert in Minneapolis.

Walz discudded about the law's importance: Potection so you dont get a bad ticket, a fraudulent ticket, and resellers cant snatch them all up before you get an opportunity.

Back in 2022 he shared his disappointment on Instagram for not securing Swift tickets, accompanied by a photo of his cat Afton snarling, captioned: Afton after being online all day and not getting Taylor Swift tickets.

Netizens going into a spiral over Tim Walz being a Swiftie VP

One X user quickly pointed out saying, SWIFTIE VP!! TICKETMASTER COUNT YOUR DAYS BABYYYYY!!!!!!!!

Remembering when @GovTimWalz signed our nation leading ticket integrity bill (Taylor Swift bill) at First Avenue, another said.

When Harris announced Walz as her running mate, she praised his dedication to middle-class families and his strong family values.

ALSO READ| Donald Trump has only two words to tell Kamala Harris for picking Tim Walz as her running mate

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 wrote in an Instagram post.

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.

Harris added, We are going to build a great partnership. We are going to build a great team. We are going to win this election.
By Luc Cohen No new trial for former Mexico drug czar, US judge says

NEW YORK, - A former top Mexican law enforcement official convicted last year on U.S. corruption charges does not deserve a new trial, after he tried to bribe a fellow jail inmate to lie that the government's case was tainted, a U.S. judge said on Wednesday.

Genaro Garcia Luna, who led Mexico's fight against drug cartels as public security minister from 2006 to 2012, was found guilty by a Brooklyn jury in February 2023 of taking millions of dollars in bribes from cartels in exchange for shielding members from arrest and allowing safe passage for cocaine shipments.

Lawyers for Garcia Luna urged U.S. District Judge Brian Cogan to grant a new trial, saying they found evidence that key witnesses lied and that prosecutors' cooperating witnesses had improperly communicated with each other before trial.

But the judge said Garcia Luna offered a fellow inmate at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn $2 million to corroborate another inmate's false claim that two cooperating witnesses had spoken with each other on contraband cellphones.

"This was a clear scheme by defendant to obstruct justice through bribery," Cogan wrote.

A lawyer for Garcia Luna did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Cogan said Garcia Luna's lawyers were not aware their proposed evidence was false.

Garcia Luna, 56, could face life in prison when he is sentenced on Oct. 9.

The former drug czar is one of the highest-ranking Mexican officials accused of ties to drug trafficking.

Prosecutors said he was on the payroll of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who once led the Sinaloa cartel, even as he worked closely with U.S. counter-narcotics and intelligence agencies, including by seizing some drugs to keep up appearances.

Guzman is serving a life sentence at a maximum-security prison in Colorado after being convicted of drug trafficking in 2019.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Prince Harrys continued revelations about the Royal Family have the potential to severely hinder any future peace talks, according to insiders. The duke is repeatedly rubbing salt in the wounds of his family. Prince Harry 'rubbing salt in the wounds' of Royal Family. (Photo by Frazer Harrison / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP)

Tensions between the Sussexes and the rest of the Royal Family have been high since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chose to step down from their roles as senior royals in 2020 and relocated to Montecito, California, where they now reside with their two children.

Since then, Prince Harry and Meghan have been vocal about their lives as Royals and also appeared in a revealing interview with Oprah Winfrey. Their tell-all Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, also spilled many Royal secrets. Prince Harrys memoir, Spare, was released in January 2023. The memoir dropped several bombshells, and the royals are particularly not happy about it.

ALSO READ| Harry, Meghan blasted for showing utter contempt they have for the King' by planning to go on Colombia tour

Prince Harry's 'Spare' sequel could be 'final nail in coffin' for Royal reconciliation

Given the commercial success of Spare, Prince Harry has been suggested to be considering a sequel. An insider told Heat Magazine, Its got to be a tough spot for Harry to be in because the publisher is putting a ton of pressure on him to deliver some more salacious details on the royals.

Royals are now genuinely fearing a second memoir from the Duke and any further disclosures by him would ruin any chance of reconciliation.

The source added, Its not exactly like his family has been very forgiving, so no doubt theres some feeling on Harrys part that hes got nothing left to lose.

The source suggested that Spare would be remembered as one of the biggest betrayals of the monarchy in recent memory.

For him to rub salt in the wounds again for his own personal gain would send him so far into the doghouse that there'd be no way back - it would ruin any chance of reconciliation, the source told Heat Magazine.

ALSO READ| Eric Trump calls Prince Harry and Meghan Markle 'spoiled apples' and suggests

Despite these claims, there is a belief that Harry has little left to reveal besides his experiences of being ostracised by the royals.

However, Prince Harry has hinted at more untold stories. In an interview with The Telegraph, he mentioned that the initial draft of his memoir was significantly longer: It was 800 pages, and now its down to 400 pages. It could have been two books, put it that way, and the hard bit was taking things out.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. insisted he plans to return to live in New York, as the independent presidential candidate was grilled for a second day Wednesday about his actual residency and whether he should be kept off the Empire States ballot in November. RFK Jr testified again Wednesday that Katonah was his home address. He said his move to California a decade ago was only temporary so he could be with his wife,(Getty Images via AFP)

A lawsuit filed on behalf of several voters seeks to invalidate the petition Kennedy submitted to get on the New York ballot, alleging he listed a residence in the New York City suburb of Katonah on the petition while he has lived in the Los Angeles area since 2014.

Kennedy testified again Wednesday that Katonah was his home address. He said his move to California a decade ago was only temporary so he could be with his wife, Curb Your Enthusiasm actor Cheryl Hines, and that he always planned to return to New York.

In a testy exchange in the Albany courtroom, attorney Keith Corbett repeatedly asked Kennedy whether moving to California with his family and pets demonstrated his intention to reside in that state.

Kennedy balked at providing a yes or no answer, saying the reality was more nuanced.

Do you want a yes or no answer, or do you want the truth? Kennedy said.

My intent is to return to New York and thats the only requirement for residency, he said.

Under questioning from his own lawyer, Kennedy said he moved to California out of love for his wife.

I said I would figure out a way to make a living in California until we could move back," he said.

He said it was difficult for him to leave New York because he built his life there.

On Tuesday, Corbett produced a July 2 affirmation from Kennedy saying his drivers license was registered to the Katonah address. But Corbett said government documents show his registration did not list that address until the next day.

You are familiar with the term perjury? Corbett asked.

Of course I am, Kennedy replied, saying his assistant handled the paperwork.

I will certainly correct this. I was wrong by 24 hours, Kennedy said.

I have lived in New York for 50 years, he added.

Corbett raised doubts about Kennedy's residency claim on multiple fronts Tuesday. He handed Kennedy a federal statement of candidacy with a Los Angeles address and had the candidate acknowledge he had moved his mementos, books and pets from New York to California.

The dogs came, the hawks stayed, Kennedy said, referring to his raptors.

The lawsuit is being backed by Clear Choice PAC, a super PAC led by supporters of Democratic President Joe Biden. A judge is set to decide the outcome without a jury.

In a video posted in his Facebook page Tuesday, the 70-year-old Kennedy said he has lived in New York ever since his father moved there in 1964 to run his successful campaign for U.S. Senate. This was after his father's brother, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated. The candidate's own father was shot to death in 1968 while running for president.

While independent presidential candidates like Kennedy face extremely long odds, he has the potential to do better than any such candidate in decades, helped by his famous name and a loyal base. Both Democrat and Republican strategists worry he could negatively affect their candidates chances.

Kennedy's campaign has said he has enough signatures to qualify in 42 states so far. His ballot drive has faced challenges and lawsuits in several states, including North Carolina and New Jersey.
With three gold medals and a silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Simone Biles became the most decorated gymnast in history. However, the 27-year-old athlete now thinks that her retirement might be near. Following her tragic fall in the Balance Beam Final that cost her the gold medal, Biles made a shocking revelation about herself. Paris: US gymnast Simon Biles performs on the balance beam at the 2024 Summer Olympics, in Paris, France, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. (PTI)

Simone Biles reveals her body shut down at the Olympics

The 11-time Olympic winner took to social media to make a confession about how the years of training may have taken a toll on her physical health. I am really tired, Biles said in a video shared on TikTok. Despite recording the video on Sunday, she didn't post it online till Tuesday.

ALSO READ: Gymnastics legend Nadia Comaneci slams Olympics judges for playing with athlete's mental health

I feel like my body is slowing starting to shut down, like, its ready to be done, she continued as he did her makeup ahead of the Uneven Bars at the Olympics. As Biles was a reserve, she did not compete in the gymnastics event. It was a day after she recorded the video that she fell from the balance beam on Monday.

However, Biles' fall was not entirely due to her body shutting down. Following the event, the gymnastics champ said that her performance was really weird and awkward because the ambience at this year's games was off.

ALSO READ: How to make viral Olympics chocolate muffins? TikToker hunts down recipe

Youre trying to stay in your zone, and then people start cheering, and then the shushing gets louder, so really, they should be shushed because theyre louder, she told reporters, per USA Today. Weve asked several times if we can have some music, or some background noise, so Im not really sure what happened there. But, yeah, not our favorite. None of us liked it, Biles added.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz on Tuesday made his first public appearance as Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate, targeting his Republican rival JD Vance using a couch joke. Tim Walz and Kamala Harris addressed the crowd at Temple University's Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 6, 2024, on the first day of their "Battleground State Tour". (AFP)

Amid the plenty of applause in Philadelphia, Harris introduced his VP candidate Walz and hailed his accomplishments. He really does shine a light on a brighter future that we can build together, she asserted on the first day of their Battleground State Tour.

Meanwhile Harris campaign too lauded battle-tested leader Walz, stressing that he has an incredible track record of getting things done for people residing in Minnesota.

Reacting to all love and applauds, Walz declared serving as Harriss running mate would be the honor of a lifetime.

Walz says cant wait to debate Vance

Walz, who became the first Democrat to call out Donald Trump and his VP candidate Vance as weird, targeted the Ohio Senator. Like all 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, he stated with Harris by his side at the campaign rally.

Come on, thats not what Middle America is, Walz remarked.

Expressing his eagerness to debate Vance, he quipped: I got to tell you, I cant wait to debate the guy . that is if hes willing to get off the couch and show up. See what I did there?

He made the joke, which absolutely thrilled the crowd, in reference to an online hoax that purportedly stated Vance included an X-rated anecdote about a couch in his 2016 memoir Hillbilly Elegy.

Walz went on to characterise Trump as creepy and yes, just weird as hell.

Walz, 60, declared he would run for office every day in an effort to unseat Vance and Trump and emerged victorious in the 2024 battle. He roared, We'll sleep when we're dead, prompting cheers from the crowd.

Also Read: Netizens say Trump & Elon Musk's upcoming interview 'will break the internet': Here's when and where to watch

Harris calls herself and Walz underdogs in the race

Comparing the resumes of Trump's running mate with Walz, Harris said, it is like a match-up between the varsity team and the JV squad.

She admitted that we are the underdogs in this race, but added, we have the momentum and I know exactly what we are up against. Hitting out at Trump, she compared him to the predators, scammers, and offenders.
Tropical Storm Debby inundated coastal Georgia and South Carolina with a deluge of rain that could bring "catastrophic flooding" to Charleston, Savannah and other cities on Tuesday, a day after it slammed into Florida's Gulf Coast as a hurricane. 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)(AP)

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 National Hurricane Center said.

The governors of those states have declared states of emergency.

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Debby's impact could be 'catastrophic' in Charleston and Savannah

The storm featured 40-mile-per-hour (64 kph) winds as it moved slowly just south of Savannah, Georgia, on Tuesday afternoon. 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.

ALSO READ| Hindu homes, temples targeted and looted in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina ouster, says minority group

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 morning.

Tropical Storm Debby makes landfall in Florida

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.

More than 88,000 customers were without power in Florida as of Tuesday afternoon, according to poweroutage.us, down from a peak of 350,000 on Monday. And more than 10,000 were without power in Georgia. Hundreds of flights to and from the state were canceled.

Weather conditions could spawn tornadoes as well, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). A suspected twister flipped over cars and damaged restaurants in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, about 30 miles (48 km) north of Charleston, early on Tuesday morning. Mayor Thomas Hamilton said there were minor injuries.

The NHC said Debby would slow down and move east and off Georgia's shore on Tuesday before turning north and drifting inland over South Carolina near Charleston on Thursday.

ALSO READ| Paris restaurant offers deepest apologies to Serena Williams after turning her away

Vice President Kamala Harris postponed a presidential campaign stop scheduled this week in Savannah, the Savannah Morning News reported.

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.
Donald Trump reignited the baseless conspiracy theory about Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during an interview with an internet personality, stating that he could be the son of former Cuban president Fidel Castro. Donald Trump claimed that he gets along with Trudeau very well, but added that he seems to be going very progressive and the people of Canada are not liking it.(AFP File)

Speaking about Canada's political climate with well-known streamer Adin Ross, Trump remarked, He's turned very liberal.

On being asked to react to photos of various US and foreign leaders, Trump saw the picture of Trudeau and brought up the conspiracy theory, citing they as his unnamed sources. They say he's the son of Fidel Castro and could be. Anything's possible in this world.

Anything's possible in this world, you know, he added.

Born on December 25, 1971, Trudeau is the son of the late Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau and his spouse, Margaret.

Pierre Elliott visited the communist dictatorship for the first time in 1976 with his then-wife Margaret and their third and youngest son, Michel.

Trudeau, who had made personal visits to Cuba, returned to the Caribbean nation in November 2016 as Canadian PM and drew comparisons between his and Trump's perceptions of the socialist-led country.

Following the demise of Castro, Trudeau paid homage to him and referred to him as a legendary revolutionary and orator, who had significantly improved Cubas educational and healthcare institutions. He obliquely mentioned him as a controversial figure, inciting the conspiracy theories.

According to fact-checking website Snopes, the theory was first proposed by a user on the Trump subreddit, /r/The_Donald.

Trump says Canadians seem unhappy

In the interview, which appeared on a livestreaming platform Kick, Trump claimed that he gets along with Trudeau very well, but added that he seems to be going very progressive and the people of Canada are not liking it.

Trump later went on to make some assumptions regarding the chances of a Conservative leader.

If they had a good conservative person which  maybe they do, maybe they dont, I dont know  but, uh, somebody thats a strong conservative would win Canada. Canada is very unhappy about the way theyve been treated as people, but I got along with him well.

Also Read: Netizens say Trump & Elon Musk's upcoming interview 'will break the internet': Here's when and where to watch

Trump and Trudeau shared a tumultuous and transactional relationship during the GOP leader's tenure in the White House as the US levied steel and aluminum tariffs, Trump pushed Canada to raise defense spending and North American free trade agreement was renegotiated.

During a NATO leaders summit in 2019, Trudeau was caught on camera on a hot mic making jokes about Trump alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, former UK PM Boris Johnson, and Dutch PM Mark Rutte.

Trump referred to Trudeau as two-faced" following the global uproar, but reiterated that he maintains a good bond with him.
By Michelle Nichols US to give $414 mln in humanitarian aid for Congo

UNITED NATIONS, - The U.S. said on Wednesday it would provide nearly $414 million in humanitarian assistance for the Democratic Republic of Congo, where more than 25 million people need such aid, nearly a quarter of the country's population.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture, Jeffrey Prescott, told Reuters a significant amount of that money would go to United Nations agencies and aid groups providing urgent food assistance, healthcare and nutrition support, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene. "This funding also includes direct support agricultural commodities from American farmers," said Prescott, who will formally announce the aid in Kinshasa on Wednesday with U.S. Ambassador to the DRC Lucy Tamlyn.

It takes total U.S. funding for DRC since October to $838 million, said Prescott.

Congo's army has been battling M23 insurgents since 2022, and renewed fighting in the country's east has driven more than 1.7 million people from their homes, taking the total number of Congolese displaced by multiple conflicts to a record 7.2 million, according to U.N. estimates. A U.N. aid appeal for $2.6 billion for DRC this year is only one-third funded and the World Health Organization warned last month that more than one million children are at risk from acute malnutrition in Congo.

Prescott said he hoped the U.S. funding would encourage other countries to also "step up as well" and help DRC.

The U.S. will also provide $10 million for health assistance and donate 50,000 mpox vaccines, Prescott said.

Mpox, a viral infection that can spread through close contact, is usually mild but can sometimes lead to death. It causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions on the body.

The current mpox outbreak in Congo has already seen around 27,000 cases, and claimed more than 1,100 lives, most of them children, since the beginning of 2023.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Asif Merchant, a Pakistani national who allegedly has ties with Iran, was arrested last month for allegedly plotting to carry out killings of an unidentified politician or US government officials on American soil. Former President Donald Trump was one of those individuals who Asif Merchant viewed as a possible target, a person familiar with the matter told Bloomberg. This image provided by the Justice Department, contained in the complaint supporting the arrest warrant, shows Asif Merchant. The Pakistani man alleged to have ties to Iran has been charged in a plot to carry out political assassinations on U.S. soil(AP)

However, theres no evidence that Asif Merchants plan had any connection to last months assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, another person told the news agency.

According to the US Justice Department, Asif Merchant, 46, allegedly sought to hire a hitman to assassinate a politician or a US government official in the United States - in retaliation for the US killing of Revolutionary Guards commander Qassem Soleimani.

This dangerous murder-for-hire plot exposed in todays complaint allegedly was orchestrated by a Pakistani national with close ties to Iran and is straight out of the Iranian playbookA foreign-directed plot to kill a public official, or any US citizen, is a threat to our national security, FBI director Christopher Wray said in a statement.

Who is Asif Merchant?
Amid the political turmoil in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina's exit, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday lauded Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, the head of the interim government of the country, describing him as a highly respectable figure". Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor

If Muhammad Yunus has taken over, that's a very good signhe is a highly respected figure. He has a reputation that goes beyond politics. He is internationally very highly thought of with the Nobel prize, Grameen Bankthis makes him a figure who can definitely contribute to stability in Bangladesh, it is our interest, Shashi Tharoor told news agency PTI.

The Congress MP hoped that Bangladesh would achieve peace under Muhammad Yunus's leadership.

Sheikh Hasina, who ruled Bangladesh for 15 years, resigned on Monday and fled to India as the anti-government protests intensified, with thousands storming her official residence. According to officials, at least 300 people, including policemen, were killed in the protests that began in July.

There have been reports of several minorities being attacked in the country.

Reacting to this, Shashi Tharoor said, There has been an anarchy, minorities were attacked, but there were also reports of Bengali Muslims protecting Hindus and their homes. We should tell both sides of the story. We should stand with them. Let us hope they find their political destiny. Soon there will have to be elections and solution to be found through democratic process, he said.

Interim government in Bangladesh

A day after Hasina's exit, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament, paving the way for the formation of an interim government. On late Tuesday, the President appointed Yunus as the head of the interim government, shortly after a meeting that included student protest leaders, military chiefs, civil society members and business leaders.

Following his appointment, Yunus said that restoring trust in the government quickly is critical at the moment, reported The Financial Times.

We need calm, we need a road map to new elections and we need to get to work to prepare for new leadershipIn 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 told the media organisation, as reported by Reuters.

Meanwhile, the protesting leaders are expecting that the members of an interim government will be finalised by the end of Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)
Four employees working at a Hyatt Hotel in Milwaukee are facing felony murder after pinning a man down to the floor as he repeatedly pleaded for help.

Arrest warrants were issued for the hotel security guard Todd Erickson, front desk worker Devin Johnson-Carson, bellhop Herbert Williamson and security guard Brandon Turner.

Surveillance footage from June 30 shows D'Vontaye Mitchell, a Black man, desperately running into the lobby's hotel and then into a gift shop before entering the women's restroom.

Turner, who was off duty at the time, pulls Mitchell into the lobby by his shirt, and the two begin to scuffle when Turner punches him six times, knocking him to the floor.

JUST IN: Prosecutors charged four men with felony murder in the death of DVontaye Mitchell, ruled a homicide due to restraint asphyxia and toxic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine



Police said that DVontaye Mitchell caused a disturbance and was pinned down by four hotel pic.twitter.com/VMysLJvg81  Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) August 6, 2024

Mitchell can be seen on video as he's dragged and held down on his stomach for eight or nine minutes before police and emergency responders arrived, according to the Associated Press. One employee told investigators that Mitchell was struggling to breathe and was repeatedly pleading for help. Turner told a detective that he heard women screaming in the bathroom after Mitchell entered, leading him to believe the victim was on drugs. Johnson-Carson told investigators that Mitchell was not in a "stable sort of mind," and he was speaking "gibberish." He admitted that Mitchell said "stop," "why" and "something about breathing" during the assault and told Williamson to stop applying pressure, which he allegedly did. Johnson-Carson said that Mitchell displayed "clear signs of extreme distress, including gags, distressed breathing, and repeated pleas for help," according to the criminal complaint. It went on to state, "All of these factors - the gasping, the actions and words of DM, the distress that he was in - show that all four defendants were aware that holding DM face first on the ground was 'practically certain' to cause impairment of his physical condition." An autopsy found that Mitchell was morbidly obese and had cocaine and methamphetamine in his system. The county medical examiner ultimately determined Mitchell died of "restraint asphyxia" and could have lived had the employees allowed him to turn onto his side. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, one of the lawyers representing Mitchell's family, revealed that a video recorded by a bystander and circulating on social media shows security guards with their knees on Mitchell's back and neck. Crump posted a statement on X on Tuesday evening, calling the charges "a significant step towards justice for the family of D'Vontaye Mitchell!"

Four Hyatt employees involved in the death of DVontaye Mitchell have been charged  a significant step towards justice for the family of D'Vontaye Mitchell! https://t.co/UD5DHKsC91  Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) August 7, 2024

DeAsia Harmon, Mitchell's widow, commented that the decision to charge the employees was a relief but questioned why it took weeks.

"These people are on camera taking my husband's life," she said.

"They should have been charged the moment they did that."

The company that manages the hotel, Aimbridge Hospitality, announced that several employees involved in Mitchell's death have been fired.

Mitchell's mother, Brenda Giles, created a GoFundMe to assist with the immediate needs of his children and family.

Giles described her son as a caring and loving soul who was a devoted father and cherished husband.
A Florida woman is accused of luring officers to her home, where her husband and two adult children ambushed deputies as they entered the home, killing one and injuring two others, all in the name of God.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office announced the death of Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Michael Link, 28, and confirmed deputies Harold Howell, 41, and Stefano Gargano, 28, are recovering from injuries sustained in the incident.

Sherif Peyton Grinnell told reporters at a press conference on Friday that the deputies had received a call about a woman trespassing and assaulting people at a home in the 3800 block of Brookside Drive.

The woman, identified as Julie Sulpizio, 48, claims she was "Helen under God's will" and made several other religious statements to detectives during the investigation.

Grinnell said Sulpizio allegedly convinced deputies to go and check on her husband and two adult children.

Law enforcement arrested Sulpizio while the other three officers made their way to the home.

Upon arriving, the deputies tried to make contact with the occupants; however, they received no response despite hearing movement inside the home.

They noticed two dead dogs lying in the front yard and an open window with the screen kicked out, leading them to believe it may be a home invasion.

After nearly an hour of trying to get a hold of the people inside, Link, Howell, and other deputies entered the home.

Link walked through a laundry room and into a hallway, where his body camera captured a man wearing a black shirt and body armor holding a rifle on the arm of a couch "waiting to ambush deputies," according to Grinnell.

Rounds of gunfire shot out and struck Link in the back multiple times, while a bullet hit Howell in the wrist.

Julie's husband, Michael Sulpizio, continued to shoot at Link as he tried to crawl to safety when someone else in the home began shooting at deputies outside.

Attempts to negotiate with the suspects to rescue Link were unsuccessful.

"My king will kill all of you," a woman inside the home yelled, according to the Miami Herald.

"You are Lucifer's children."

The SWAT team arrived on scene and entered the home with a ballistic shield to save Link, but they were also met with a barrage of bullets.

Gargano was shot through a wall several times with a high-caliber weapon and is in critical condition.

"Heroes," Grinnell said of the rescuers.

When officers heard the suspects mention suicide followed by three gunshots, they found 23-year-old Savannah Sulpizio and 22-year-old Cheyenne Sulpizio deceased on the couch from self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

Michael Sulpizo suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was rushed to the hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival.

"Throughout the residence, anti-government propaganda was observed, along with conspiracy-theory media," Grinnell told reporters.

During her interview with detectives, Julie Sulpizio claimed to be God and said that God speaks through her.

She stated that she was trying to lure the neighbors to her home so that her husband could kill them.

"They were not successful because of our deputies," the sheriff added.

Prosecutors charged Sulpizio with first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer, seven counts of attempted murder, felony battery/strangulation, two counts of battery, and battery on a law enforcement officer.

The state may seek the death penalty against her, said Bill Gladson, Lake County State Attorney.

"This was nothing short of an ambush," Gladson stated.

"The evidence will show that. It's absolutely indescribable."
Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance accused Gov. Tim Walz of "stolen valor" during a campaign stop in Michigan on Wednesday.

Vance, who served in Iraq as a U.S. Marine, claimed that when Walz was asked to go to Iraq, he dropped out of the Army and "allowed his unit to go without him."

He said it was "shameful" to have his unit go without him and called Walz "dishonest."

Vance brought up a statement the Harris campaign put out about gun control saying guns of war shouldn't be on American streets.

"I wonder Tim Walz, when were you ever at war?" Vance questioned.

"What bothers me about Tim Walz is the stolen valor. Do not pretend to be something you are not," Vance said.

Walz is a retired Army National Guard noncommissioned officer. He enlisted in 1981 and retired in 2005, Miltary.com reported.

He deployed to Italy to support U.S. operations in Afghanistan according to Minnesota Public Radio.

His opponent in the 2022 Minnesota governor's race claimed Walz quit the Guard to avoid a deployment to Iraq.

Walz said he retired to run for Congress, the Star Tribune reported.
Conspiracy theorist Chuck Johnson leaked private text messages to the Washington Post that show Donald Trump's running mate JD Vance discussing UFOs and Jeffrey Epstein's death.

The 20-month long correspondence began in 2022, when Johnson sent Vance a congratulatory text for getting elected to the U.S. Senate. After that, their texts developed into regular consultations from Vance asking Johnson for his thoughts on several different topics.

Vance asked Johnson about his "read" on UFOs and discussed Republican's outlook on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asking "What is GOP Bibi problem?" He also wondered about Epstein and asked Johnson if he thought he "actually killed himself."

According to the Post, Vance said of Epstein: "Also haven't followed story closely but he seemed like a genuinely bad dude."

On the topic of assuming responsibility for the Nord Stream gas pipelines being sabotaged, Vance pointed to the Ukrainian government.

"Dude I won't even take calls from Ukraine," Vance told Johnson in October. "Two very senior guys reached out to me. The head of their intel. The head of the Air Force. Bitching about F16s."

In another message, Vance talked about Republican Sheldon Adelson who died in January of 2021.

"I'm pretty sure he gave me shit," Vance wrote in response to Johnson suggesting he should read about Adelson's influence. "Never met him ... Hes dead. Don't care."

When JD Vance's name was being floated in the media as a potential veep pick for Trump, Johnson warned him against taking the position.

"Congratulations. Good luck," said Johnson.

Vance reportedly took six days to reply. He said: "For what?" and "You assume too much!"

To which, Johnson warned him saying: "Don't take it when it's offered. It's a trap."

Vance wrote back: "Haha" and "Doubt it's offered. We'll see."

The texts were sent using Signal, an encrypted messaging app. Vance's spokesman William Martin claimed the two never had any type of relationship and do not share the same politics.

"Chuck Johnson spam texted JD Vance," Martin said. "JD usually ignored him, but occasionally responded to push back against things he said."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly planning to move himself and his family into an underground bunker complex in Jerusalem ahead of an anticipated attack by Iran.

The bunker is designed for top officials in case of such an attack on Israel and is where the prime minister is expected to manage the country, according to The Jerusalem Post.

The Israeli Security Agency organized the command bunker, which is located deep underground in Jerusalem.

It's a secret, sensitive facility that cost billions following the Second Lebanon War. The nuclear complex is greatly protected and allows encrypted communication and high-level security.

Sources told the paper that Netanyahu's wife, Sara, and their son, Yair, are also considering spending the night in the bunker but the prime minister's office denied these claims, calling them "fake news."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his family plan to enter the underground bunker complex in Jerusalem, designed for top officials in case of an Iranian attack on Israel. This information comes from sources close to Netanyahu, as reported by Walla.https://t.co/l5B3NjIoD6  The Jerusalem Post (@Jerusalem_Post) August 7, 2024

"We will not settle for less than Netanyahu's head," an Iranian MP warned. In Iran's previous attack on Israel in April, Netanyahu and his wife moved into the home of billionaire Simon Falic's family in Jerusalem, which reportedly has an advanced anti-missile shelter.

After October 7, the family allegedly alternated between Falic's home and their private residence in Caesarea.
A Colorado teen who agreed to have sex with a man she met on Snapchat described her alleged would-be killer as "weird" moments before she met up with him.

Annabelle Floren-Wyant, 18, died during the early morning hours of Thursday at a residence in El Paso County, Colorado, according to the police report, KKTV-TV reported.

A friend called 911 to report he couldn't get a hold of Annabelle after he dropped her off at a home where she planned to meet one of her premium Snapchat subscribers to "collect money."

Authorities identified the premium subscriber as 26-year-old Jorge Luis Meza-Alarcon.

"[The friend] said Annabelle informed him Jorge was 'weird' and requested he check on her periodically via text message or phone call," the report stated.

When he was unable to reach the victim, he called 911.

Annabelle was found dead in the suspect's bedroom with blood pouring from her ear.

Deputies arrested a visibly injured Meza-Alarcon walking three miles away from the home.

During police questioning, Meza-Alarcon allegedly admitted he met Annabelle through Snapchat and agreed to pay her in exchange for sex, KOAA-TV reported, citing police records.

After the pair had sex, he said she asked him for payment and struck him when he went to grab the money.

He allegedly responded by putting her in a chokehold and claimed he later blacked out before regaining consciousness while walking in the street.

"Jorge was asked if he knew Annabelle was dead when he left the room and he stated 'without checking her pulse...' and said he 'knows how to do locks,' because he 'likes to train,' and he knows when the chokehold is used 'you only have 2-3 taps in you,'" the police report stated, according to the outlet.

The suspect "had an extreme indifference to human life when he knowingly applied a chokehold to Annabelle, which he reasonably knew would create a grave risk of death," police alleged, the records read.

Meza-Alarcon is being held on $1,000,000 bond. He is due in court Thursday.
Radisson Hotel Group is delighted to announce its debut in the heart of the Champagne region with the opening of Radisson Hotel Reims. This contemporary hotel bolsters the upscale Radisson brand in France, marking its second location in the country. Situated just steps away from the vibrant Halles du Boulingrin and directly opposite the Reims Arena, Radisson Hotel Reims is poised to become a premier destination for travelers seeking a harmonious and enriching travel experience.

Designed by the renowned Anna Moussinet, Radisson Hotel Reims seamlessly blends timeless architectural design with modern aesthetics, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. Guests can choose from 102 stylish rooms, including spacious Junior Suites all designed to provide a memorable stay.

The hotel boasts an array of amenities to enhance every guest's stay. Le Pop Restaurant and Bar, located on the ground floor, offers all-day dining with a menu inspired by Mediterranean cuisine and vibrant urban favorites. It's the ideal place to enjoy a meal, a quick snack, or a handcrafted cocktail, especially on the terrace during sunny days. For the perfect spot to relax with a drink while enjoying music, Le Rooftop Bar, situated on the 8th floor, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Reims, including the city cathedral.

For those hosting events, the hotel features three versatile event spaces with natural daylight and modern facilities, ideal for meetings and social gatherings, accommodating up to 80 attendees. Guests can also maintain their workout routines at their convenience in the 24-hour fitness room, which offers state-of-the-art equipment and views of Reims Arena.

Radisson Hotel Reims is perfectly positioned for guests to explore the vibrant Boulingrin district, known for its trendy bars, restaurants, markets, and nightlife. Visitors can also enjoy memorable tours of iconic local Champagne houses and vineyards or step back in time at the enchanting Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims.

Hotel website
Denizoglu began his hospitality journey in 1997 with finance before transitioning into F&B as the beverage manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Later his career path led him to Fairmont Bab Al-Bahr in Abu Dhabi as director of banquets. He then joined Ayada Maldives as director of F&B, where he managed seven outlets. Denizoglu further expanded his skills as director of F&B at the JW Marriott Medan, Indonesia. Moving forward he joined the Bangkok Marriott Hotel, Sukhumvit as director of operations.

In 2019, Denizoglu concluded his time in Thailand after joining the Royal Orchid Sheraton Bangkok as hotel manager. He then returned to Indonesia as general manager of the JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta. During his tenure there, he achieved a 1.3 percent increase in gross operating profit, a 10.8 percent rise in RevPAR, and a 5.9 percent growth in restaurant & bar revenue. Furthermore he improved employee satisfaction significantly, showcasing his team-building skills and ability to foster a supportive work environment.

Denizoglu's most recent role was as general manager of the JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha, where he achieved further success in employee engagement and satisfaction, with a 10 percent increase in a year and the lowest voluntary turnover in Doha at 20.88 percent. His extensive F&B experience was instrumental in launching the 42 Oak & Smoke Cigar Lounge, transforming the Shanghai Club and Fuego outlets, and reimagining the Pool Deck & Level 8 with a tropical-inspired design.
With extensive experience working for some of the world's premier hotel brands, including One&Only, Radisson, Anantara, and IHG, Morten has crafted an impressive career that spans multiple continents. His hospitality journey has taken him from Germany and Denmark to the UAE, Maldives, Czech Republic, Thailand, Indonesia, the Netherlands, and China. His unique perspective and diverse global experiences allow him to build meaningful relationships and enhance collaboration across different cultures.

Morten's leadership style is focused on creating personalised experiences for guests while ensuring the highest level of service standards. He is an engaged leader with a sharp business acumen. He thrives in team settings, inspiring and energising those around him. His visionary mindset and passion drive him to achieve remarkable results.

A Danish National, Morten's passion for hospitality and dedication to excellence can be traced back to his educational background. He holds a Hotel Specialist diploma from the Bergius Technical College in Frankfurt, Germany, as well as a business diploma from Copenhagen Business College in Denmark. His strong academic foundation, coupled with his hands-on experience, has enabled him to excel in his career while making a positive impact on properties he has worked with in the past.
Ms. Dorn is an associate in Fisher Phillips' Irvine office. She represents employers in a variety of employment law matters including discrimination, harassment, retaliation and wage and hour litigation. She frequently assists clients in preparing employee handbooks and policies. Prior to joining Fisher Phillips, Ms. Dorn interned with the in-house legal team of an international manufacturing company. She also externed for the Honorable Scott C. Clarkson at the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California. Prior to attending law school, Ms. Dorn worked for a legislative tracking and grassroots advocacy software company in Washington, D.C. She earned her J.D. from Fowler School of Law at Chapman University with an emphasis in Business Law and graduated magna cum laude. During her time at Fowler School of Law, she served on the Chapman Law Review and the Executive Alternative Dispute Resolution board. She also served as an academic fellow for Contracts and Federal Income Tax courses. Ms. Dorn double majored in East Asian Language and Cultures and Communication at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, graduating with honors.
The Nordic hotel investment market has typically been characterized by strong local currency and domestic or pan-Nordic capital deals, limiting competition and making it harder for overseas investors to gain access.

But thats all starting to change.

While established domestic investors such as Pandox, Balder or NREP have historically dominated the market, for the first time, a broader range of European players from family offices to private equity funds and institutional core plus investors are checking-in to the Nordic hotel market.

High living standards, social equality, and political stability make the Nordics attractive for businesses and investors. But recently, weaker currencies have added another pull factor, says Stefan Giesemann, JLLs Managing Director for Hotels & Hospitality Capital Markets, DACH, Central, Northern and Eastern Europe.

Local currencies such as the Swedish krona have weakened in comparison to both the British pound and the euro, opening the market to more international capital, he says.

Cross-border investors seeking to diversify portfolios and generate liquidity, particularly those from the UK and U.S., are also taking advantage of the positive impact of currency forwards when investing in Swedish or Danish hotels.

By hedging foreign exchange risk and managing exposure theyre protecting themselves against future potential currency fluctuations, adds Giesemann.

High demand for accommodation creates investor opportunity

Shifting tourism patterns are seeing Northern Europe gain market share over traditional destinations. Favourable exchange rates, combined with the burgeoning Nordic food scene, stunning natural scenery and increased flight options, are drawing more travellers to explore what the region has to offer.

The trend for so-calledcool-cations  visitors choosing more temperate climates  has also led to notable increases in international overnight stays, according to a report from the European Travel Commission, which highlights year-to-date increases for Denmark (+38%), Norway (+18%) and Sweden (+9%), relative to 2019.

As a result, demand for accommodation is on the rise.

When compared to other European cities, were seeing significantly higher demand-to-supply ratios, says Giesemann. This shortage of available rooms represents opportunities for institutional investors and listed companies looking to restructure portfolios, reduce debt, free up cash and decrease risk. As a result, were seeing hotels activity and deals in the region begin to rise.

The Nordic hospitality sector has benefitted from geopolitical shifts in favor of countries perceived to be highly secure, a reputation for quality and service, and strong focus on sustainability.

Denmark in particular is increasingly popular with investors as an easy place to do business thanks to low bureaucracy, efficient government procedures and a supportive regulatory framework, says Giesemann.

Whats more, as the commercial office market continues to give investors pause for thought, office-to-hotel conversions are becoming an attractive option for those seeking to rebalance their real estate portfolios.

Giesemann points to the fact that some established hotel operators have already snapped up vacant office blocks and are repurposing as hotels in sought after locations.

Corporate travel boosts hotel occupancy

Its not just leisure travellers that are boosting demand for hotel beds.

The Nordic region had a different approach to the pandemic and saw a quicker hospitality rebound, says Giesemann. Weve seen a corresponding resurgence of business travel fuelled by rising numbers of exhibitions and conferences.

Some hotel operators have been quick to capitalize, attracting corporate guests by incorporating coworking spaces into their offerings.

As markets continue to face a degree of uncertainty, investors seeking homes for capital are still benefiting from discounted hotel trading rates when compared to the sectors pre-pandemic levels.

All the signs point to continued interest, with strong operational performance paired with the outlook of lower funding costs expected to selectively boost the total returns outlook in Nordic hotels, says Giesemann.

About JLL

For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $20.9 billion and operations in over 80 countries around the world, our more than 103,000 employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. Driven by our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world, we help our clients, people and communities SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com.
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), Indias largest hospitality company, announced the signing of a luxury hotel and boutique resort in the Kingdom of Bahrain, both under its iconic Taj brand. These greenfield projects mark a significant milestone as IHCL becomes the first Indian hospitality company to establish a presence in the Kingdom of Bahrain, further cementing its footprint in the Middle East.

We are pleased to announce two hotels in the island nation of Bahrain in line with our strategy of growing Tajs presence in key gateway cities of the world. With a portfolio of seven hotels including four under development in the Middle East, these hotels will extend our presence in the MENA region. We are delighted to partner with Kingdom Projects to introduce the iconic Taj with its world - class hospitality, elevating Bahrains tourism landscape. Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL

Nestled amid picturesque surroundings, the Taj resort in Hamala will feature 251 luxurious rooms, each thoughtfully designed to reflect the laid-back serenity of the island. The resort will offer luxury offerings, including an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty restaurants, alongside a swimming pool and exclusive beach club. Curated to create an atmosphere of relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort will additionally encompass wellness areas such as a state-of-the-art gym and tranquil spa. The resorts 1,200 sq.mt banquet facilities will cater to grand events and celebrations, making it a key player in Bahrains emerging leisure sector.

The 200 room Taj hotel in Downtown Seef, Manama, strategically located in the heart of Bahrains bustling capital, is set to cater to the needs of business travelers and tourists alike. Coupled with world-class wellness facilities including a modern gym, spa, and swimming pool, the hotel will provide guests with an endless variety of culinary experiences, ranging from all-day dining and specialty restaurants, to an exclusive pool bar. The Downtown Seef hotel will additionally feature banquet areas tailored for meetings, corporate events, and weddings.

We are delighted to welcome the prestigious and world-renowned Taj brand, a first for Bahrain, which will work towards attracting tourists in greater numbers from across the region and around the globe, thereby enhancing the tourism sector's contribution to GDP. In line with the Economic Vision 2030 driven by the Crown Prince, partnering with leading leisure and hospitality brands exemplifies Kingdom Projects vested commitment to contribute to the development and growth of the tourism sector and thereby, the diversification of the national economy. Mr. Jalal Al Wazzan, Managing Director of Kingdom Projects W.L.L,

With the addition of these hotels, IHCL will have a presence of 7 hotels with 4 under development in the Middle East..

About Kingdom Projects W.L.L,

Kingdom Projects W.L.L, a pioneering company in the real estate sector, renowned for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence and is driven by the Crown Princes Vision of 2030.

Kingdom Projects W.L.L stand as one of the most esteemed and significant real estate development firms in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is a diversified business group with various activities and services to cater for the requirement of the industry in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
There is no single dress code law that hoteliers can look to for guidance when it comes to dress code policies, which can make their drafting and enforcement tricky. However, employee dress codes can be a valuable tool for hotels. They can help hotels make a positive first impression and set the tone for a pleasant guest experience.

Moreover, thoughtfully crafting a dress code policy can set employee expectations, increase productivity, and even prevent claims of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. This article provides a few of the important considerations for drafting and/or revising your hotels dress code policy.

Hotels have a unique interest in ensuring that their guests are welcomed by a clean and professional workforce. Dress codes can be a valuable tool to help hotels make a positive first impression and set the tone for a pleasant guest experience. Moreover, thoughtfully crafting a dress code can set employee expectations and increase productivity. Finally, a legally compliant dress code can help hotels avoid claims of discrimination and disparate treatment.

Clearly Communicate Expectations

A good place to start when drafting a dress code policy for your hotel is with encouraging your employees to exercise professional judgement when it comes to appropriate attire. However, keep in mind that employee judgment and experience can vary significantly. For example, what is considered appropriate attire for your front desk agents (to present professionally for your guests) may differ from what is considered appropriate attire for your maintenance technicians (to be able to work with necessary tools safely and effectively).

As such, in addition to encouraging the exercise of professional judgment, it is important to set clear expectations for employees. A well-drafted dress code policy will outline all aspects of employee dress and appearance. Employers can generally adopt and enforce dress code policies to help create and maintain their desired image. You should consider your hotels branding, image, values and mission. Also, keep in mind the kind of work environment you hope to achieve, and practices within the hotel industry.

While hotel industry dress codes can vary, a common theme for a well-drafted dress code policy is that it includes language requiring employees to present a professional, neat, and well-groomed appearance. Employers should also consider defining what professional, neat, and well-groomed means for your hotel. Except in certain situations, some of which are discussed further below, employers can generally set and enforce guidelines on clothing, shoes, jewelry, tattoos, etc. For example, what sort of clothing is permitted for various positions? Should it differ for customer-facing roles? Do shoes need to be closed-toed? Is there a specific uniform required? Are there acceptable variations of the uniform? Are jewelry or piercings permitted? How about perfumes? For tattoos, are there placement and/or content concerns? And so on and so forth.

Keep in mind that employers can set different standards for different jobs. Once the employer has outlined their expectations clearly, the dress code policy should explain the consequences for an employee reporting to work in violation of the policy. For example, whether the employee be sent home to change, and whether they be paid for the time it takes to do so.

Source: Fisher & Phillips LLP

Keep it Neutral

When crafting your dress code policy, consider whether it applies equally to all of the hotels employees. Some traditional dress-code prohibitions (i.e. the length of a womans skirt or a mans hair, etc.) are quickly becoming outdated or even illegal. For example, in 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court held that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. So, when drafting a dress code policy, make sure the burden on each gender is equal.

Another example would be a dress code that prohibits certain kinds of ethnic dress, such as traditional African or East Indian attire. If the dress code otherwise permits casual dress, it could be interpreted as treating some employees less favorably because of their national origin. Having a neutral policy puts employers in a better position to defend against accusations of discrimination against Title VII protected groups. If you are unsure whether your policy will be interpreted as neutral or not, run the language by your labor and employment counsel.

Watch for Potential Pitfalls and Accommodate Where Required

While employers can generally require employees follow a uniform dress code, there are situations where employers are legally required to make exceptions. Specifically, employers should not enforce the policy in violation of any equal employment opportunity laws. Employers also need to provide reasonable accommodations to the policy for an employees religious beliefs and practices, medical needs, or other protected reasons. When it comes to an employees religious beliefs and practices, Title VII requires that once an employer is on notice that an employee needs a religious accommodation for sincerely held religious beliefs or practices, employers must make an exception to its dress code requirements unless it would pose an undue hardship.

For example, if your dress code policy prohibits hats, you may have to make an exception if an employee wears a head scarf as part of their religious practices. EEOC guidance provides that: (1) Requiring an employees religious garb, marking, or article of faith to be covered is not a reasonable accommodation if that would violate the employees religious beliefs, (2) An employer may bar an employees religious dress or grooming practice based on workplace safety, security, or health concerns only if the circumstances actually pose an undue hardship on the operation of the business, and not because the employer simply assumes that the accommodation would pose an undue hardship, (3) When an exception is made as a religious accommodation, the employer may still refuse to allow exceptions sought by other employees for secular reasons, (4) Neither co-worker disgruntlement nor customer preference constitutes undue hardship, and (5) It is advisable in all instances for employers to make a case-by-case determination of any requested religious exceptions, and to train managers accordingly.

Importantly, in 2023 the U.S. Supreme Court held that undue hardship is shown when a burden is substantial in the overall context of an employers business, tak[ing] into account all relevant factors in the case at hand, including the particular accommodations at issue and their practical impact in light of the nature, size and operating cost of an employer. The U.S. Supreme Court further clarified that showing more than a de minimis costdoes not suffice to establish undue hardship under Title VII.

Once the company is on notice that an employee requires a reasonable accommodation regarding the dress code policy, the company should engage in the interactive process with that employee to identify possible accommodations. For more information regarding the interactive process, consult your labor and employment counsel.

Account for State and Local Requirements

Employers should also keep an eye on state and local requirements that may be more stringent than federal law. For example, in California, The CROWN Act, with the stated purpose to enforce the values of fairness, equity, and opportunity for all," went into effect on January 1, 2020.

The CROWN Act prohibits discrimination based on natural hairstyles in the workplace and in public schools. It amends the definition of "race" in the California Fair Employment and Housing Act and the California Education Code to include traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles.

Enforce the Policy Consistently

When it comes to enforcing your dress code policy, it is best to stay consistent. Failing to do so runs an increased risk of a discrimination lawsuit. Employers should avoid the appearance of disparate treatment  having a written policy outlining clear expectations goes a long way in assisting consistent enforcement.

Conclusion

Thoughtfully crafting a dress code policy can outline reasonable workplace expectations, increase productivity, emphasize health and safety standards, and even prevent claims of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. When drafting and/or revising your dress code policy, keep the above considerations in mind. Accommodation requests involving the policy should be reviewed on a case-by- case basis, taking into account all available information. Finally, consistent enforcement is key and will help keep you and your hotel out of the courtroom.

This article provides an overview of the law and is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as legal advice for any particular fact situation.

Reprinted from the Hotel Business Review with permission from http://www.hotelexecutive.com/.
Earlier this week, a federal judge ruled that Google was illegally maintaining monopoly over Internet search and was using its dominance to squash the competition. Google announced that it was planning to appeal this ruling and was focused on making products that people find helpful and easy to use.

Before I opinion on what would be the ramifications by this antitrust ruling on the hospitality industry, let me ask the following question: What do WebCrawler, Yahoo Search, LookSmart, Alta Vista, Lycos, Excite, Dogpile, Inktomi, Ask Jeeves, Alltheweb, Caffeine and Apple Search have in common?

These all were search engines that dominated Internet search at one point or another, most pre-dated Google and some of them had first movers advantage, and many challenged Google for dominance after it emerged. They all failed.

Why? Not because Google acquired them to increase market share. Simply because Internet users fell in love with Google search and preferred it to all other search engines.

So we are talking about dominance in search due to Googles superior technology and talent, not because of some evil monopolistic ambitions.

So, what will be the impact of this latest antitrust ruling on travel and hospitality?

Short term : no impact. Business as usual. The current ruling and anticipated appeals by Google will take years to pan out. One way or another.

: no impact. Business as usual. The current ruling and anticipated appeals by Google will take years to pan out. One way or another. Mid Term : Googles exclusive contracts to provide search on a number of Internet platforms and websites will be revised (Apple, etc.) to make them non-exclusive. But where would one find a better alternative search engine?

: Googles exclusive contracts to provide search on a number of Internet platforms and websites 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 is already being populated by an increasing number of generative AI search engines like OpenAI Search engine, Anthropics Claude, etc., so consumers will have plenty of search options to choose from. Will these new AI-powered 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 Internet users will abandon Google and switch to another gen AI-powered search engine? Google gets 82 billion visits per month! YouTube - another 31 billion. ChatGPT? A paltry 3 billion!

Even today online consumers have the choice to abandon Google and switch to least 15 other search engines like Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, Ask, AOL, Yep, Brave Search, Andi, You, etc., not counting the regional Baidu, Naver and Yandex.

How many users have done it? In mid 2024, Google held 91.47% of the global search market share across all devices, while Bing held 3.43%, Yandex: 1.78% and Yahoo!: 1.1%.

Ultimately, the free market and consumers will decide which search engine will stay, and which will go, not some judge or government.
Scandic Go Hotel in Stockholm - Image Credit Scandic

The Nordic hotel investment market has typically been characterized by strong local currency and domestic or pan-Nordic capital deals, limiting competition and making it harder for overseas investors to gain access.

But thats all starting to change.

While established domestic investors such as Pandox, Balder or NREP have historically dominated the market, for the first time, a broader range of European players from family offices to private equity funds and institutional core plus investors are checking-in to the Nordic hotel market.

High living standards, social equality, and political stability make the Nordics attractive for businesses and investors. But recently, weaker currencies have added another pull factor, says Stefan Giesemann, JLLs Managing Director for Hotels & Hospitality Capital Markets, DACH, Central, Northern and Eastern Europe.

Local currencies such as the Swedish krona have weakened in comparison to both the British pound and the euro, opening the market to more international capital, he says.

Cross-border investors seeking to diversify portfolios and generate liquidity, particularly those from the UK and U.S., are also taking advantage of the positive impact of currency forwards when investing in Swedish or Danish hotels.

By hedging foreign exchange risk and managing exposure theyre protecting themselves against future potential currency fluctuations, adds Giesemann.

High demand for accommodation creates investor opportunity

Shifting tourism patterns are seeing Northern Europe gain market share over traditional destinations. Favourable exchange rates, combined with the burgeoning Nordic food scene, stunning natural scenery and increased flight options, are drawing more travellers to explore what the region has to offer.

The trend for so-called cool-cations  visitors choosing more temperate climates  has also led to notable increases in international overnight stays, according to a report from the European Travel Commission, which highlights year-to-date increases for Denmark (+38%), Norway (+18%) and Sweden (+9%), relative to 2019.

As a result, demand for accommodation is on the rise.

When compared to other European cities, were seeing significantly higher demand-to-supply ratios, says Giesemann. This shortage of available rooms represents opportunities for institutional investors and listed companies looking to restructure portfolios, reduce debt, free up cash and decrease risk. As a result, were seeing hotels activity and deals in the region begin to rise.

The Nordic hospitality sector has benefitted from geopolitical shifts in favor of countries perceived to be highly secure, a reputation for quality and service, and strong focus on sustainability.

Denmark in particular is increasingly popular with investors as an easy place to do business thanks to low bureaucracy, efficient government procedures and a supportive regulatory framework, says Giesemann.

Whats more, as the commercial office market continues to give investors pause for thought, office-to-hotel conversions are becoming an attractive option for those seeking to rebalance their real estate portfolios.

Giesemann points to the fact that some established hotel operators have already snapped up vacant office blocks and are repurposing as hotels in sought after locations.
W Kuala Lumpur Hotel to be Acquired by IOI for MYR 270 Million - Image Credit Marriott

Hotel investment in Asia Pacific is rising on the back of a strong tourism rebound.

Investment volumes in the first half of the year hit $5.7 billion, up 19% from the year earlier, according to JLL data.

This follows an uptick in tourism. International visitor arrivals in Asia Pacific are projected to reach a new high of 741 million this year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time, data from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) shows.

With tourism thriving once again, investors are pouring back into the region, fuelling a surge in hotel investment volumes, says Nihat Ercan, CEO, APAC, JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group. This sets the stage for a robust hotel market in the years to come.

Japan emerged as the region's hottest hotels market in the second quarter, capturing over half of all transactions, JLL data shows. A notable deal in April saw American private equity giant KKR acquire a 14-hotel portfolio from Japanese developer Unizo Holdings.

In May, Japan welcomed more than three million visitors for the third straight month, marking a 60% increase compared to the previous year.

But its not just tourism attracting investors to Japan. A weaker yen and cheaper debt financing, compared to other global markets, make it a prime target for cross-border investors seeking attractive returns, according to Ercan.

Japan offers investors the opportunity to achieve positive carry, as property yields exceed borrowing costs, says Ercan. This is a rare find globally and makes Japan a compelling investment market.

A magnet for investors

Thailand and China are also attracting strong investor interest. Together with Japan, the three countries accounted for 88% of all APAC hotel transactions in the second quarter.

Not surprisingly, official Thai data indicates the country welcomed over 17.5 million visitors in the first half of 2024, up 35% year-on-year. This is sparking deals, such as the recent sale of The Lamai Samui Resort & Spa Koh Samui and Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai for $64 million.

However, in China, the uptick in hotel deal activity has been mainly driven by domestic investors.

Foreclosure sales have led to higher transaction volumes in both major and secondary cities, notes Ercan. The swift recovery of domestic hotel trading performance is also attracting the interest of non-institutional hotel investors, potentially expanding the buyer pool.
Are Songwriters Better Off: The Changing Music Industry Landscape [Chris Castle]

Are songwriters better off compared to five years ago? Discover how songwriters lives have been transformed and the surprising changes in the music industry that can make or break a songwriters career

Are songwriters better off compared to 5 years ago?

by CHRIS CASTLE of Music Tech Policy

The Trichordist has been running an important feature series titled Are You Better off Today than You Were Five Years Ago focused on the redesignation of the MLC with insightful excerpts from public comments in the Copyright Office MLC rulemaking. What is also an implied question of that series is are you better off today under the Music Modernization Act, the corresponding negotiations at the Copyright Royalty Board and the related litigation.

Despite all the hoorah and overselling of Title I of the sainted Music Modernization Act (the part of the legislation that created the MLC) in my experience nothing has changed for songwriters. Except spending an enormous amount of free time spent updating the MLCs database for them. Successful songwriters are still successful, and, rough justice, the other 95% or so are still broke. This isnt the fault of any one songwriter, but in the first instance it is the fault of the interlocking boards and executives who demand to be in charge. They wanted it, well now theyve got it. Of course its also the fault of greedy, drooling, big tech executives and their minime lawyers, starting with Spotify and the evil Daniel Ek.

Independent songwriters dealing with Big Tech in litigation is a little bit like dealing with government prosecutors. They whinge about how dedicated they are and what super lawyers they must be because they have a high conviction rate. (Many have never conducted an actual trial.) Youd have a high conviction rate, too, if you had hundreds of lawyers, unlimited budgets, privacy busting tools, and political control of judicial appointments through the alumni network of former members of your operations. And who is on the other side? This array of legal and lobbying muscle is in the field against underfunded public defenders who are mostly trying to cut the a deal based on the lesser of two evils.

While redesignating the MLC is an opportunity to look back at that organizations job performance, its also an opportunity to look back at where the current decisionmakers and power brokers have gotten us with our so-called partners at the platforms. Further, its an opportunity to look at the entire structure of government mandates, interlocking boards of directors, lack of songwriter representation, highly paid lawyers, lobbyists and executives, and abysmal royalty payouts mixed with the absurd MLC black box.

But theres no point whinging about it on our side, either, because we are where we are and weve gotten where weve gotten. Ivors Academy in the UK is hosting an important event by songwriters for songwriters that will take a welcoming yet no doubt critical eye at the current environment. I wish we had something similar in the US. But guess who has no interest in allowing the workers to talk amongst themselves.

Songwriters navigate a complicated landscape.



Balancing creativity with the demands of the music industry, facing the pressures of financial stability and maintaining mental wellbeing.



It's a world filled with extraordinary highs and lows.



This is why at The Ivors Academy, we pic.twitter.com/27B3iM2T9L  The Ivors Academy (@IvorsAcademy) July 26, 2024

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House of Hamill To Play at Guthrie Center

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass.  House of Hamill will perform at the Guthrie Center on Saturday, Aug. 10, as a part of the Troubadour Series of Saturday night concerts. Showtime is 8:00 PM.

According to a press release, House of Hamill's music is described as "upcycled Celtic folk; vintage vibes with a modern message."

The band line-up includes Rose Baldino (fiddle and vocals), Brian Buchanan (fiddle, vocals, and guitar), and Caroline Browning (bass, mandolin, vocals and piano). The trio tours nationally, performing at festivals and established folk venues.

Their fourth full-length album, "Wildfire," will be released to radio and streaming on Aug. 1. One of the tracks slated for the new album was a recent finalist in the International Acoustic Music Awards. The song is entitled, "Shine."

"We set out to write a song that might inspire women in the US and give them hope after a tough year. The song is meant for women in all phases of life. It's about having the courage to strike out into new territory and find a community in which you're valued," Baldino said.

All three members of House of Hamill also tour with the long-time Celtic rock band, Enter the Haggis, which means that House of Hamill is almost constantly on the road. Their recent schedule has led them to perform in at least 28 states and 3 countries, including hosting multiple bus tours through Ireland.
Williamstown Board of Health Seeks Amicable End to Dispute

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  The Board of Health on Monday discussed how to communicate with a resident about an order to deal with a nuisance on their Simonds Road property.

Jean Rand stormed out of the Town Hall meeting room after a brief and contentious appearance before the board regarding her home at 1033 Simonds Road.

The property had been subject to a condemnation order from the Health Department in September 2022. And while most of the issues at the home have been resolved, one item remains: a pile of wood that the town believes is a nuisance and health hazard.

Health Inspector Ruth Russell gave the board a timeline of town's involvement with the property, including her December 2023 decision to rescind the order of condemnation, which Russell says was replaced with an order to abate a nuisance, "allowing them to go back in the home but with some orders for outside the home."

One was an order to deal with non-sanitary conditions on the grounds of the property, specifically a wood pile that was a "potential source of rodent harborage," Russell said. She showed the board a letter from June 2023 from the town asking that the wood be stacked properly.

Rand contended that the Board of Health had completely cleared the property in its September 2023 meeting and indicated that the town was harassing her.

"We had agreed that as long as everything else on the property was done, I was going to be done with this, and here I am today," Rand told the board. "I've bent over backward.  Yet I'm still being harassed."

Rand told the Board of Health that the town had shut off her water service in February 2023, and it took a threat from her lawyer to get the water turned on again.

When Board of Health Chair Dr. Erwin Stuebner explained that the town's Water Department is not controlled by the board and that it was not a Health Department decision, Rand fired back.

"Yes it was," she said. "It was [then Health Inspector Jeffrey] Kennedy who had it shut off in the middle of winter, yet my bill was paid in full."

Rand told the board that if the water had stayed off, the home's steam heat would have failed and the pipes would have frozen.

Kennedy, who was in the audience for Monday morning's meeting, explained his involvement in the decision.

"The Water Department asked if the water could be turned off," Kennedy said. "I said, 'There's no one living there. However, if the owner disputes that the water should be left on  ."

"We were not given any notice," Rand said. "My water bill was paid in full. My water shouldn't have been touched. I have been nothing but harassed by the town nonstop. I did everything I was asked for.

"I moved the wood pile back from the road. I'm disabled. My husband is disabled. What makes you think rodents aren't going to harbor in a pile of stacked wood compared to a pile of wood? There is no difference."

Stuebner replied that the town has ordered the wood to be stacked properly and suggested that Rand could get help from a friend to make sure it's done.

"In the September meeting, we were in agreement that I didn't need to touch that wood pile," Rand said.

"It's in the [December 2023] order that it needs to be stacked," Stuebner answered.

"Show me where it says in the September meeting that it needs to be stacked," Rand said. "The minutes say, 'It was discussed.' I know what I stated in that meeting. I know what was discussed."

Russell told the board that the town does not have a recording of the September 2023 meeting. At its March meeting, Russell did tell the board that the owner of the 1033 Simonds Road property still was obligated to clean up the wood pile.

What Russell in March characterized as a May deadline has since been extended.

On Monday, Board of Health member Devan Bartels asked Rand what a reasonable timeline would be to deal with the pile.

"I'll go home and light it on fire," Rand shot back.

"I think by our next meeting is reasonable  " Bartels began.

"Call the Police and Fire Department, I'll go home and light it on fire," Rand said as she left the podium and walked out of the meeting room in the middle of the 9 a.m. discussion.

As of noon on Monday, there was no sign of a fire in the yard of the home.

After Rand left, Kennedy explained to the board the difference between a wood pile and a wood stack from a public health standpoint.

"The difference is the spacing underneath the pile and the airflow in the pile," Kennedy said. "A pile of wood as it is [at the Simonds Road property] allows burrowing activity. A stacked pile of wood has smaller spacing and is subject to air flow for drying."

In answer to a question from Stuebner, Kennedy explained that a property owner who contested a decision from the Health Department could appeal to the Board of Health or, ultimately, Land Court in Pittsfield, which, he said, would not require the expense of an attorney on the part of the appellant.

In the meantime, the board discussed sending a letter to Rand, thanking her for efforts to make the changes needed to lift the condemnation order and explaining that the enforcement order on the wood pile remains in effect.

"I think the way forward is to write a clarifying letter in clear language with a cooperative tone," Bartels said.

Stuebner suggested the letter could be "less threatening" and "more personal."

"I'd stress to her that this is the last remaining part of the order," Stuebner said. "If this is taken care of in a timely fashion, before the next meeting, we're done. Everything will be taken off the board."

Russell agreed to make drafting the letter a priority and told the board members she would distribute it to them for her comments before sending it to Rand.

In other business on Monday, Russell gave the board an update on the '6 House Pub , whose owners are waiting on approval from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for a plan to deliver potable water to the restaurant from the same source that supplies the nearby motel.

In June, the board reviewed the restaurant's efforts to serve its clientele using bottled water and approved the procedures in place.

"After our last meeting, Ruth [Russell] and I went out to the '6 House and met with the general manager and chef and were impressed that they were doing what they're supposed to do," Stuebner told the board.

"I have not heard any concerns [related to E. coli]. We did make new signs and put up signs that are more prominent [at the restaurant]. It sounds like things are moving."

And, finally, on Monday, Kenned, who retired as the town's health agent last summer, told the board that he is back on a short-term basis as the assistant health inspector to assist Russell.
Demolition of GE's Building 12 was halted last month after a single air sample found PCBs exceeding the 'action level.'

PCBs Detection Pauses GE Demolition



GE says a stockpile of debris was within 50 feet of the air monitor, which is located along the boundary line with PEDA's property.

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  Elevated levels of PCBs in a single air sample have halted demolition work on the former General Electric site.

Authorities say the measurements are "conservative" and not a threat to public health.



The sample was taken between July 11 and July 12 and was received by the Pittsfield Economic Development Authority from an off-site laboratory on July 25. It was quickly forwarded to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on the same day and work stopped.



"The exceedance does not constitute a health threat to the public," a regional representative from the EPA wrote to iBerkshires in an email. "These action levels are very conservative and furthermore this monitor was not located adjacent to public areas."



The higher levels of polychlorinated biphenyls in the sample is attributed to stockpiles of demolition debris from former GE buildings that were within 50 feet of the air sampling monitor, abutting the PEDA property. The EPA will evaluate PCB air data from sampling conducted the week of July 29 and decide if GE can resume operations, though PEDA has been given the OK to continue with backfill work on its property.



PEDA notified EPA and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection of the detection found in a sampling round conducted over 24 hours from July 11 to 12. The economic development authority received information late on July 25 from the off-site commercial laboratory and it was reportedly forwarded out on the same day.



"This 13-day turnaround time for receipt of air data from an off-site laboratory is a typical duration for this type of sampling event," the EPA representative said.



"GE will implement additional actions and engineering controls as part of their building demolition activities. EPA and Mass DEP will continue to provide close oversight of the ongoing activities being conducted by PEDA and GE."



PEDA is currently working on a nearly $10 million redevelopment of Site 9 on the former GE property. This included removing the existing concrete surface and placing a clean backfill on the property.

Both parties stopped work to reassess the situation, the EPA reportedly discussing it with the city on July 26. This was not considered an emergency or health threat to the public because the monitor is "well away" from private property and that monitors close to the Tyler Street extension were below health-based action and notification levels.



MassDEP reviewed the information provided by PEDA and concurred with EPA that the strong likelihood is that the source of PCBs was not PEDA's activities, rather the source of airborne PCBs emanated from GE property associated with the building demolition activities, the EPA reported.



PEDA was permitted to resume backfill operations on July 29 and GE remains under a stop-work status.

On July 26, GE provided a summary of its evaluation and stated that one of the stockpiles of demolition debris was within 50 feet of the air sampling location that had the exceedance, according to the EPA.



Even though it was not GE's monitors with the exceedance, it was directed to temporarily stop work and assess the situation. On top of daily dust monitoring, GE's proposed response actions are:

Perform air sampling at six locations.



Add a new sample location on the PEDA property near the location with the exceedance but farther to the south and west to account for the potential irregular wind patterns and impacts from the elevated vehicle ramp and retaining wall.



Resume demolition work upon receipt of results from this sampling round indicating that all sampling locations are less than the air action level.



Conduct weekly PCB air sampling at these six locations for at least four weeks or until GE has achieved four consecutive weeks of results less than the Action Level, at which time GE can propose moving to monthly sampling, subject to EPA approval.



Once work has resumed, GE will employ additional engineering controls such as reducing the size of onsite stockpiles and keeping stockpiles further away from the property line.

The EPA approved this response and stipulated that work can continue if a sample result is above the air PCB Notification Level but below the Action Level. However, GE should evaluate conditions, consider additional engineering controls, and discuss its findings and potential additional actions with EPA. The agency also said that if any additional sample results are above the air Action Level, GE will immediately stop work and notify EPA of the results.
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Drake has surprise-dropped 100 gigabytes of data, including three new songs, on a website called 100 Gigs for Your Headtop.

The Canadian star confirmed the release was legitimate after sharing a screenshot of the site to his Instagram Stories, while his record label OVO Sound also posted it to social media.

The three new tracks are included in a folder titled 1_New and feature Its Up, a collaboration with Young Thug and 21 Savage, Housekeeping Knows with Latto, and Blue Green Red.

Elsewhere, behind-the-scenes clips show Drake on the shoot for the Hotline Bling music video, or working in the studio with Noah 40 Shebib and Boi-1da. All of the content is available to download from the site.

Drake has been relatively quiet since his very public feud with fellow rapper Kendrick Lamar reached its pinnacle around May.

After years of subtle digs broke out into all-out war, the pair released a flurry of diss tracks  from Lamars Euphoria and 6:16 in LA to Drakes Family Matters.

open image in gallery Kendrick Lamar (left) was widely considered the winner of his rap beef with Drake ( Getty Images )

Lamar quickly returned fire with Meet the Grahams and his kill-shot, Not Like Us. While Drake came back with The Heart Part 6, Lamars final salvo is widely considered to be the song that solidified his victory.

It has since become a contender for song of the summer after debuting at No 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Meanwhile, Drake popped up on two tracks on producer Gordos new album, Diamonte, and made a surprise appearance at PartyNextDoors concert in Toronto, where it was announced that the duo would release a collaborative album this autumn.

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Drakes last album, For All the Dogs, in October last year. It received mixed reviews from critics, with many taking issue with the lyrical content.

At times, there are snatches of the old Drake  the way he interpolates a haunting flip of the Frank Ocean bootleg on Virginia Beach brings to mind the cloudy textures and hazy samples of his early work, wrote Nadine Smith in her two-star review for The Independent.

But more often than not, Drake just sounds old, as his heartbreak calcifies into something harder, and more sinister.
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Hercules and Xena are at war again, as Kevin Sorbo and Lucy Lawless faced off on social media over the UKs race riots.

As violent disorder and unrest continues to spread, thousands of police officers have been deployed to quell disturbances that have led to hundreds of arrests, beatings, stabbings, and mosques under siege.

Sorbo posted a false 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.

The post captioned, This is whats happening in the UK, was seen over 76.5 million times as those sympathetic to the far-right flocked to the comments to support the post.

It was reshared by tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has faced calls for a travel ban, barring him from entering the UK as he is accused of stoking tensions at a dangerous time.

Meanwhile, Lawless appears to be on the opposite end of the spectrum when it comes to sentiments around the disorder as she shared images sympathetic to immigrants, and reshared a post showing a mob attacking a Black man with the caption, Arrest them all.

The pair have butted heads over their political beliefs in 2021, when Lawless called Sorbo a peanut when he reshared a widely debunked conspiracy theory that rioters storming the US Capitol were actually antifa agitators undercover.

No, Peanut. They are not Patriots, she wrote at the time. They are your flying monkeys, homegrown terrorists, QAnon actors. They are the douchebags that go out and do the evil bidding of people... who like to wind them up like toys and let them do their worst.

open image in gallery Actors have warred over their political and personal beliefs ( Syndication )

In an interview with SFX in 2001, Sorbo accused Xena: Warrior Princess as he criticised the show for promoting lesbianism.

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He said: In that show, they had two issues that separated it from Hercules: one, it was heavily into lesbianism, as people know, and number two: it was heavily into violence. It was far more violent than Hercules was.

open image in gallery ( Getty )

The actor also showed resentment when he accused Lawless of securing a role in Spider-Man because she was married to director Sam Raimis partner Rob Tapert, in 2007.

According to Newsweek, when the interviews were brought to her attention, she wrote, HAHAHHAHAHHAAA!! oh, Peanuut! You slay me!
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Hunter Schafer has expressed concerns that filming the third season of Euphoria will be too emotional following the death of Angus Cloud.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes actor, 25, starred in HBOs hit teen drama as Jules Vaughn alongside Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, Jacob Elordi, Alexa Demie, Barbie Ferreira and Cloud, who died from an accidental overdose in July last year.

Schafer broke down in tears when asked about the status of Euphoria season three, which has been significantly delayed due to the casts conflicting filming schedules as well as the tragic death of their co-star, who played Fezco ONeill on the show.

Speaking to Alex Cooper on the Call Her Daddy podcast, a tearful Schafer said: A lot has happened. Its hard to talk about. Weve had deaths. Im going to get emotional. I think everyone feels a certain sense of anticipation for if we are supposed to do season three.

She continued: Obviously, Im still coming to terms with whats happened - losing people that we really loved that were a part of this family. If we do go back, thats going to be tough. Theres a world in which we can channel that into making it a beautiful season three if it is supposed to happen but that sh*t [it] really threw everyone through a loop.

Schafer admitted there are industry political reasons Euphoria season three still has no production date. But [grief] is emotionally a big part of whats happening too, she said.

A year on from Clouds sudden death, the Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes star admitted she is still stunned by grief over the loss of her friend at the most unexpected times. It will hit me when Im on the f***ing toilet, out of nowhere, she said. Its crazy.

open image in gallery Hunter Schafer and Zendaya as Jules and Rue in Euphoria ( Sky Atlantic )

Last September, the Alameda County Coroner confirmed that Cloud died from an accidental overdose. Fentanyl, cocaine, benzodiazepine, and methamphetamine were found in his system at the time of death. The actor suffered acute intoxication as a result of the combination of drugs.

In the statement announcing his death, it was noted that Cloud had attended his fathers funeral in Ireland just a week before and had intensely struggled with this loss.

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When asked about the likelihood of Euphoria season three after delays to the filming schedule and reported disagreements about which direction the series is heading in, HBO executives told reporters the show would still go ahead.

open image in gallery Angus Cloud as Fezco in Euphoria ( HBO )

Theres been a lot of back and forth, HBO executive Casey Bloys told Variety. One of the issues I think that [creator and showrunner Sam Levinson] is thinking about is that he doesnt want to have it in high school anymore.

Bloys continued, Thats where it was set and what made sense then. So when you take it out of that, theres a lot of back and forth about where to set it and how far in the future. But I think hes got a take that hes excited about, and hes busy writing.

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Piers Morgan has hit out at Elon Musk over his inflammatory remarks about Britains ongoing race riots.

Violent disorder has spread across the country in the wake of the stabbings of three young girls in Southport, after misinformation spread that the killer was a Muslim asylum seeker.

Hundreds of people have been arrested, with thousands of police officers deployed to prepare for further actions throughout the week. At least one person has been left seriously injured as a result of racist and Islamophobic attacks, with stabbings, street beatings, and mosques under siege.

The billionaire tech owner has been accused of fanning the flames of unrest, as he shared a video of a group of Asian men gathered around a pub in Birmingham with the caption, Why arent all communities protected in Britain? to X/Twitter on Tuesday (6 August).

He tagged UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer in the post, after the Labour leader condemned actions against groups based on their race or religion and called for mosques to be protected.

Morgan called out Musk for the comment as he chastised, Elon, fake news was posted that the triple child-killer was a Muslim illegal immigrant who came in on a small boat and was on a terror watchlist.

This prompted far-right rioters to attack Muslims & asylum seekers. I havent seen you mention/condemn any of this?

Other broadcasters lent their voice to the criticism as Channel 4s Krishnan Guru-Murthy wrote, Do you want to do an interview about this?

open image in gallery Musk has been accused of stoking the flames of unrest ( Getty )

You are causing a lot of waves here in Britain at a very dangerous time. Anytime, anywhere. On @Channel4News and @X live.

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Musks comments come as part of an ongoing series of tweets to his 193 million followers on X, as he suggested on Monday (5 August) that civil war is inevitable in the UK  comments which were criticised by Downing Street.

He shared a plethora of tweets on Tuesday in which he claimed that his site X is the UKs biggest source of news at a time when his own messages appeared to repeat fake claims.

Using the hashtag #twotierkier  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 including 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.

open image in gallery Violence erupted across England and in Northern Ireland (Owen Humphreys/PA) ( PA Wire )

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.

Critics have called for Musk to be banned from entering the country as commentator Nels Abbey, author of Think Like a White Man, demanded the UK restrict the Tesla owner from entering.

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.
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An American woman who was found chained to a tree in a forest in western India has now admitted that she shackled herself, just days after blaming her husband for her ordeal.

Lalita Kayi Kumar, 50, was discovered by a cowherd on 27 July in a dense forest in Sindhudurg, about 450km from Indias financial capital of Mumbai.

She was found tied up and emaciated after the cowherd heard a woman screaming loudly and raised an alarm. She was screaming like an animal, he reported.

Ms Kayi told the police she had not had any food or water for several days. She was so feeble she could not speak and used a notepad to scribble what she wanted to say.

After being admitted to a psychiatric hospital in Goa, the woman allegedly wrote in a statement to the police that she had been chained in the forest by her husband and left to die without food or water.

Injection for extreme psychosis which causes severe locked jaw and inability to drink any water. Need intravenous food, 40 days without food in forest, she wrote, according to The Indian Express.

Husband tied me to a tree in a forest and said I would die there.

Ms Kayi has now said she was unmarried and that she tied herself up, police and doctors told the BBC.

Lalita Kayi Kumar, 50, was found tied to tree in a forest in western India ( India Today )

Sindhudurg police superintendent Saurabh Agarwal claimed the woman was suffering from severe psychosis and hallucinating when she first gave her statement.

Ms Kayi reportedly told investigators she bought the chains and locks and tied herself to the tree because she had no money and was stressed that her visa had run out.

Her condition is improving, Dr Sanghamitra Phule, superintendent of the psychiatric hospital, said. "She eats, walks and also exercises. Shes under treatment and we are also giving her some nutrients that her body was lacking, she told the BBC.

Dr Phule said Ms Kayis family had been traced in the US and she was in touch with them.

After Ms Kayi was rescued, police found a copy of a passport in her bag which showed that she was a US citizen from Massachusetts.

They also found papers linking her to an address in Indias southern Tamil Nadu state as well as a mobile phone, a tablet, and Rs31,000 (290).

Police do not yet know how long she was tied up in the forest. The area where she was found had experienced heavy rain, Mr Agrawal said.

Police official Amol Chavan, who was with the team that rescued her, said it appeared she was there for two days at least.

When we discovered her, she was seriously dehydrated. It appears that she was stuck there for a minimum of 48 hours. Although she was mute, he said.

Ms Kayi initially told police she had come to India to learn yoga and meditation. She was married to a man from Tamil Nadu but they had fallen out, she claimed.

Police in Maharashtra then registered a case of attempt to murder case against Ms Kayis supposed husband.

She is believed to have been living in the country for 10 years, the Hindustan Times reported citing local police.
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Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus will be the new leader of Bangladeshs interim government after the dramatic exit of long-time prime minister Sheikh Hasina following a popular uprising.

Mr Yunus, who is an 84-year-old acclaimed economist and one of the most prominent political rivals of Ms Hasina, has been announced as the chief adviser of the interim government by president Mohammed Shahabuddins press secretary.

His appointment was favoured by student protest leaders who have led a mass movement against Ms Hasina since late June and rejected any possibilities of accepting a military-led government.

Mr Yunus will be in charge of restoring normalcy in violence-hit Bangladesh after a protest started against a quota system in government jobs turned into anger against the long-running government of Ms Hasina, leaving almost 400 people dead in mass demonstrations.

The decision came during a meeting that included military chiefs, organisers of the student protests, prominent business leaders, and civil society members.

In a statement on Wednesday, Mr Yunus urged everyone to stay calm and refrain from violence. I congratulate the brave students who took the lead in making our Second Victory Day possible and to the people for giving your total support to them. Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes, he said.

This is our beautiful country with lots of exciting possibilities. We must protect and make it a wonderful country for us and for our future generations, he said.

In a separate statement, Prof Yunus said he was initially reluctant to accept the students request but agreed 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, he said, according to the Financial Times.

But he said he has no intention to seek any elected or appointed office beyond his role as chief adviser for the interim period.

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.

It is critical that trust in government be restored quickly, Mr Yunus added.

open image in gallery Muhammad Yunus won Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his economic developmental work ( AP )

Other members of the new government would be decided by Wednesday after discussions with political parties and other stakeholders to overcome the current crisis and pave way for elections, student leaders have said.

Mr Yunus is in Paris and will be returning to Dhaka.

Mr Yunus, awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize, is an economist and banker who mostly stayed away from politics as he spent much of his time in courtrooms defending the more than 100 cases filed against him under the Hasina administration. His supporters describe these cases as a politically motivated vendetta designed to undermine his position as a potential rival.

open image in gallery A man climbs to tie a rope around the head of a large statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, father of Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina ( AP )

Mr Yunus won the Nobel for pioneering the use of microcredit to help impoverished people, particularly women. He is known as the banker to the poor for founding Grameen Bank and pioneering microcredit.

Mr Yunus has never run for office but considered forming a new political party in 2007 after the Bangladesh government split up and the military seized power. But he scrapped the idea within a few weeks.

In January he was sentenced to six months in jail after he was convicted of violating labour laws, in a trial that was criticised as politically motivated ahead of the countrys general election.

open image in gallery Anti-government protestors display Bangladesh's national flag as they storm Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's palace in Dhaka ( Getty )

He, however, remains a respected figure in Bangladesh and has an international clout among elite businessmen, economists, heads of governments, and European royals.

The president on Tuesday dissolved parliament paving the way for the new interim government after student protesters ultimatum threatening more protests.

Mr Shahabuddin also ordered the release of opposition leader Khaleda Zia, a longtime Hasina rival who was convicted of corruption charges in 2018, from her house arrest.

Hundreds of people gathered at a rally in Dhaka called by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, whose leader and former prime minister Ms Zia, 78, was freed from house arrest by the president on Tuesday.

Appearing via video link, Ms Zia vowed to uphold democracy and not indulge in revenge politics.

Meanwhile the ousted prime minister, who is currently taking refuge in India, was reported to be exploring options to seek asylum in the UAE, Saudi Arabia or Finland.

Ms Hasinas focus appeared to have moved away from her preferred choices of the UK or the US, with reports suggesting she did not receive a favourable response from either.

Her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who has been speaking to the media on behalf of the family since Ms Hasinas resignation, denied that his mother had sought asylum in the UK or another country. He told NDTV that she could yet travel to meet her family members in the US, the UK or Finland.
Bangladesh is no stranger to student protests but rarely has the country witnessed such large numbers of inexperienced young people take on a giant political figure such as Sheikh Hasina Wazed.

The protests began in June when thousands of school, college and university students, mostly in their twenties, poured onto the streets across the country, demanding an end to a system ensuring 30 per cent of government jobs went to the descendants of independence war heroes  and later the resignation of the prime minister.

The month-long protest culminated on Monday with extraordinary scenes as Bangladeshis stormed Prime Minister Hasinas palatial official residence, forcing her to flee the country in an abrupt end to her 20 years in power across two spells.

As she fled with her daughter and sister to India, protesters rejoiced in streets still stained by blood from violent clashes between students, the security forces and counter-protesters from the ruling party Awami Leagues student wing.

There was a sense of ecstasy in the air, a sense of joy and celebration that we had collectively put an end to the barbaric rule of Sheikh Hasina, Saima Rehman, a 22-year-old university student, tells The Independent.

Ms Hasina ruled Bangladesh with an iron fist, her time in power characterised by a ruthless approach to her critics, deeply flawed elections and the mass arrest of opposition politicians to the point where there was very little space left for dissent in the country.

For many like Ms Rehman, these demonstrations were a watershed moment, the first time they had felt compelled to take to the streets in protest. We have heard about the history of protests [in Bangladesh] but I never thought Id partake in one, she says.

We didnt think we had the courage to stand up to the ruling party but it seemed real when we marched toward her official residence, she adds.

open image in gallery People celebrate the resignation of prime minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka ( Reuters )

It is a historic day in Bangladesh as what started out as a student-led movement to change the civil service quota system transformed into a revolution that ousted the 15-year rule of Sheikh Hasina, says Sabrina Karim, associate professor of government at Cornell University.

This might very well be the first successful Gen Z-led revolution.

If it can be said that they come from a generation notorious for spending their lives absorbed by their screens, protesters used this to their advantage as those same social media platforms were put to good use organising the protests that started as peaceful demonstrations. The situation turned violent when the Bangladesh Chhatra League  the student wing of the ruling party  began counter-protests, leading to clashes.

Sensing a challenge to her rule, Ms Hasina ordered law enforcement agencies to unleash brute force against the protesters to try to quash them  killing more than 280 people in July.

open image in gallery A man holding a Bangladesh flag stands in front of a vehicle that was set on fire at the Ganabhaban, the prime ministers residence, after the resignation of PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka ( Reuters )

Soon the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the Jamaat-e-Islami threw their weight behind the students, leading the protests to become one of the biggest revolutions in the history of south Asia.

At one point last week it appeared the protests might have fizzled out  restrictions on internet services and an indefinite curfew severed student coordinators from their social networks and seemed to throttle their fury. The internet shutdown forced the student leaders to adopt old-school methods such as telephone calls and word of mouth to gather people.

Once the internet was briefly back, we put out posts on Facebook calling people to join. Of course, we reached out to the masses through the media but messaging apps were mostly used to circulate the notes, a 25-year-old student, who doesnt want to be named, tells The Independent.

The restoration of the internet and the immediate new call for protests that followed, this time demanding nothing short of Ms Hasinas resignation, was answered by millions of people, who gathered in the streets of Dhaka and other cities in defiance of the curfew.

Ms Hasina made one last attempt to quash the protests by force, with Sundays clashes leaving at least 109 people dead, including 14 police officers, and hundreds of others injured. Another 130 died on Monday morning before the army told the government it would shoot at protesters no more  effectively ending Ms Hasinas rule.

It is remarkable that all the student groups could come together to organise the second bout of protest this week. We are surprised that people in record numbers joined the agitation despite the police violence and the brutal killings. The people, the students, they were all prepared to die for their country, the Dhaka University student says.

After Ms Hasinas resignation, many members of the opposition party joined those on the streets and there were ugly scenes as they vented their anger against the ruling party. Some were filmed vandalising a statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman  the founding father of independent Bangladesh and actual father to Ms Hasina. Large-scale arson was reported from Dhaka, and several houses and offices of ruling Awami League members were torched as the overwhelmed police took a step back.

Bangladeshs Gen Z revolution has not been without its casualties. At least 440 people have been killed between 16 July and Monday, according to a tally by Bangladeshi daily Prothom Alo. At least 32 children, some as young as four years old, died during the first wave of violence, Unicef said in a statement.

On Tuesday the streets of Dhaka appeared calmer, with no reports of fresh violence as the president dissolved the countrys parliament, clearing the way for new elections.

open image in gallery People carry looted items from the Ganabhaban, the prime ministers residence in Dhaka ( Reuters )

Ms Karim says there is no guarantee yet that the revolution will be a success  this will be judged on the composition of the interim government, as well as the process going forwards for free elections and accountability and reparations for the deaths in the protests.

The army chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, said on Monday that he was taking temporary control of the country, though protest leaders have said they wont accept any undue influence by the military on the interim government itself. Bangladeshs interim government, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, will take oath on Thursday, says the military.

Ms Rehman says that despite the ongoing uncertainty, a huge amount had already been achieved by students who refused to give up on their country: We dont know what will happen to this country but I am proud of me and my brethren for overthrowing a dictator.
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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.
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Sheikh Hasina, Bangladeshs prime minister of 15 years, has fled the country after protesters demanding that she step down stormed her residence on Monday.

Ms Hasina, 76, reportedly handed over the countrys reins to the military before flying out in a helicopter to India, her strongest ally, bringing to an ignominious end her iron-fisted rule.

Bangladesh, a country of 160 million people, plunged into turmoil in late June when Ms Hasinas government launched a crackdown on mainly student protesters demanding the rollback of a contentious quota system for government jobs. The crackdown saw dozens of protesters killed, many more injured and thousands detained.

open image in gallery Protesters block an intersection during a protest in Dhaka ( Getty )

After the Supreme Court slashed the jobs quota for relatives of veterans of the 1971 war of independence with Pakistan from 30 per cent to 5 per cent, the protests subsided, only to erupt more strongly this weekend.

At least 95 people were killed on Sunday as the protesters clashed with security forces, taking the death toll in the demonstrations to more than 300.

Taking power after trauma

The unrest that forced Ms Hasina to flee was an eerie reminder of the mob rampage at her home during the bloody military coup almost 50 years ago that ended in the assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujib Rahman, who was Bangladeshs first prime minister.

Ms Hasina lost 18 members of her family and its household staff in the coup. She weaponised the trauma, says Dr Avinash Paliwal, a senior lecturer at Soas University of London who specialises in south Asian strategic affairs. He describes this as her one very powerful quality as a politician.

Proudly bearing her status as the daughter of Bangladeshs founder, Ms Hasina came to power in 1996, but she lost the next election in 2001.

Imposing an iron grip

She returned as prime minister in 2009 and promptly went about tightening her hold on power. She was widely accused of muzzling dissent, carrying out extrajudicial killings, shrinking press freedom and cracking down on civil society.

Her Awami League party won the 2014 election almost unopposed after opposition parties boycotted the election over allegations of vote rigging. It was the same story in 2018.

open image in gallery Students carry a portrait of Sheikh Hasina with the caption You killed students during a protest march in Dhaka ( AFP/Getty )

Ahead of the national election in January this year, the Hasina government allegedly arrested nearly 20,000 workers of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. The mass arrests led to protests by the main opposition partys members, inviting a violent state response.

The partys leader, former prime minister Khaleda Zia, was on the brink of death under prolonged house arrest, the opposition alleged in June last year.

Human rights groups accused Ms Hasinas administration of forcibly disappearing her critics  an allegation she denied.

After her inauguration as prime minister for a fourth consecutive term, observers noted many red flags of impending trouble in Bangladesh.

Theres a history of an autocratic slide in Hasinas decision-making, Dr Paliwal said at the time. The current elections may be a final stamp on a full-blown one-party state.

open image in gallery Student protesters during a rally in Dhaka ( AFP/Getty )

Chequered human rights record

In 2023, Amnesty International criticised the Hasina government for human rights violations, not least her jailing of critics and journalists under the draconian Information and Communication Technology Act of 2006.

Ms Hasina accused the countrys largest newspaper, Prothom Alo, of being an enemy of the Awami League, democracy, and the people of Bangladesh.

The government intensified its crackdown on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly ahead of general elections scheduled for January 2024, the group said in its annual report.

Authorities used powers in the Digital Security Act and other legislation to target journalists and human rights defenders, subjecting them to arbitrary detention and torture. There was a concerning increase in enforced disappearances and lack of accountability for deaths in custody.

This record was characteristic of Ms Hasinas rule, experts said.

She tallied a long list of political enemies even as she survived 19 assassination attempts and had no safe exit, according to Zillur Rahman, director of the Centre for Governance Studies in Dhaka.

She is always under threat, he said, and she has to be in power.
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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.
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A court in Thailand has ordered the dissolution of the progressive Move Forward Party for violating the constitution by proposing an amendment to a law that protects the monarchy against criticism.

Move Forward won the most seats in the 2023 general election but failed to form a government after members of the Senate refused to endorse its candidate for prime minister.

The Constitutional Court on Wednesday said the judges voted unanimously to dissolve the party because its campaign to amend the law was considered an attempt to overthrow the nation's constitutional monarchy.

The court also imposed a 10-year ban on political activity for 11 party executives, including former leader Pita Limjaroenrat and current chief Chaithawat Tulathon.

It remained unclear what will happen to the rest of its non-executive lawmakers, although Mr Pita told the Associated Press that the party would ensure they have a "smooth transition into a new house" or form a new party.

Move Forward's 143 lawmakers will keep their seats in parliament and are expected to reorganise under a new party, as they did in 2020, when predecessor Future Forward was disbanded over a campaign funding violation.

The judges said Move Forward had improperly used the monarchy to gain an election advantage, putting the palace in conflict with the people.

"The action of the accused is therefore an action that may antagonise the democratic system with the king as the head of state," they said in the ruling.

Thailand's election commission had filed a petition against the party after the Constitutional Court ruled in January that it must stop advocating changes to the lese majeste law, one of the most stringent in the world, which prohibits offending or showing disrespect towards the monarch or another sovereign authority.

The law carries a maximum jail sentence of 15 years for each perceived insult.

At Move Forward's headquarters, its loyalists expressed both disappointment and disbelief at the ruling.

"It feels like we have hit rock bottom, truly hit rock bottom," said Sirinapa Veillet, 58, told Reuters. "It feels like we have no support left, none at all," she said of Thailand's democratic institutions.

Amnesty International in a statement called the ruling an "untenable decision" and said authorities were relentlessly harassing the political opposition.
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Blake Lively took a style point from Britney Spears legendary fashion book for the premiere of her new movie It Ends With Us.

The 36-year-old actress and the 42-year-old pop goddess were bound to have a crossover style-wise with their archetypal idolatry and bombshell blonde hair. On August 6, under the Manhattan skyline, it finally happened. Lively showed up to the premiere of her new film based on the popular Colleen Hoover novel in Spears Spring/summer 2003 Versace dress.

Incorporating the flower shop storyline in the movie with floral embroidery, the Gossip Girl alum donned the Toxic stars sequin designer piece, teaming it with her signature long wavy locks and light pink lipstick. The one-shoulder gown was shown on the Versace Spring/summer 2003 runway and worn by Spears in 2002.

Though the nude V-cut dress perfectly captured the bright, loving nature of Livelys character, Lily Bloom, the on-screen star intended to honor the gowns former wearer. Ahead of the New York City premiere, Lively took to her Instagram story, posting a picture of Spears in the dress.

The ultimate queen who made us all want to sparkle and write and share our stories. Britney, us millennials all have a story of a moment or of years that you made us want to shine and inspire awe, with strength, and joy and immensely hard work, she wrote. Thank you for your example and your contribution to women telling their stories. So excited about your biopic and all you have to come.

open image in gallery Actress donned Britney Spears Versace dress she wore in 2002 ( Getty Images )

Speaking to the press on the red carpet, the A Simple Favor star reflected on the meaning of her fashion choice, paying tribute to the artist she admires.

In footage shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Lively told Extra: This is Britneys Versace dress. 2002. The butterfly dress. This dress meant so much to me. It meant so much to me because of what she meant to me. She was just somebody who represented love, and beauty, and youth, and hard work, and determination.

open image in gallery Blake Lively honors Britney Spears on her Instagram story ahead of her movie premiere ( Instagram/Blake Lively )

She was in touch with her sexuality and delicacy, and she just sort of represented it all... and I dont know Britney has just meant so much to me forever. I am forever a Britney stan, Lively continued.

Viewers online complimented Lively on her ode to the Criminal vocalist. I love that, one enamored fan wrote, while another remarked: By channeling a classic fashion moment, Lively pays homage to the pop icon and publicly declares her support, reflecting both her personal style and respect for Spears influence.

Livelys admiration for Britney was paid in her wardrobe on August 6 and her long-standing relationship and respect for Versace. The Hollywood favorite has worked closely with Donatella Versace over the years, forming an intimate relationship and collaboration that resulted in a series of beautiful Met Gala moments.

In 2022, Lively stepped out onto the coveted carpet in a design made to model the Statue of Liberty. The gown patinaed in front of the crowd, exposing an exquisite copper color.

Before that, The Age of Adaline actress worked with the designer to create two stunning gowns for the 2017 and 2018 fashion affairs.
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Colin Farrell is launching a foundation to honor his son, James.

The Irish actor, 48, has announced he is starting the Colin Farrell Foundation to provide support for people and families with intellectual disabilities through advocacy, education, and innovative programs. His 20-year-old son was born with Angelman syndrome, a rare neurogenetic disorder.

In an interview with People published on 7 August, the Banshees of Inisherin star opened up about his life with James, who is nonverbal. He explained that his son, who will be turning 21 in September, will soon age out of many of the affordable and accessible programs provided to families with children who have special needs.

Once your child turns 21, theyre kind of on their own, Farrell said. All the safeguards that are put in place  special ed classes  that all goes away. So, youre left with a young adult who should be an integrated part of our modern society and more often than not is left behind.

Farrell sat in the backyard with James and his live-in caregiver, as the Golden Globe winner told the outlet: I want the world to be kind to James. I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect.

He noted that it had marked the first time he was publicly speaking about his foundation, adding that obviously the only reason Im speaking is I cant ask James if he wants to do this.

open image in gallery Colin Farrell with then-girlfriend Kim Bordenave, pictured on left, in March 2003 ( Getty Images )

Farrell clarified: I mean, I can. I speak to James as if hes 20 and has perfect fluency with the English language and age-appropriate cognitive ability. But I cant discern a particular answer from him as to whether hes comfortable with all this or not, so I have to make a call based on knowing Jamess spirit and what kind of young man he is and the goodness that he has in his heart.

The Batman actor went on to praise his son, who he said has worked so hard all his life.

Repetition, repetition, balance, his jerky gait, Farrell continued. When he started feeding himself for the first time, his face looks like a Jackson Pollock by the end of it. But he gets it in, he feeds himself beautifully. Im proud of him every day, because I just think hes magic.

Although he admitted that getting his photograph taken isnt his favorite thing to do, Farrell chose to believe that James would consider it a no-brainer as long as they could help families and other young adults who live with special needs.

This is all because of James, he said. Its all in his honor.

open image in gallery In addition to James, Colin Farrell has another son, 14-year-old Henry ( AFP via Getty Images )

Farrell has been a longtime advocate for people with intellectual disabilities. The In Bruges actor serves as president of the Colin Farrell Foundation, which aims to advocate for funding and changes to healthcare policies while also creating programs that emphasize affordable and accessible community-based housing.

He explained to People that he has always wanted to do something in the realm of providing greater opportunities for families who have a child with special needs, to receive the support that they deserve, basically the assistance in all areas of life.

Farrell emphasized that his son James and those like him have earned the right to have a greater degree of individuality and autonomy on life, and a greater degree of community.

Farrell and his then-girlfriend Kim Bordenave welcomed James, his first child, in 2003. The former couple filed for conservatorship of James in May 2021, when he was 17 years old.

Farrell has another son, 14-year-old Henry Tadeusz Farrell, with Alicja Bachleda-Curus. Last year, the pair wore matching tuxedos as they attended the Academy Awards together, where Farrell was nominated for Best Actor for his role as Padraic Suilleabhain in the Banshees of Inisherin.
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The viral Mormon swinging scandal that exploded on TikTok two years ago is getting a Hulu docuseries, titled The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

The six-part documentary, set to premiere on the streaming platform in September, will chronicle how a scandalous world of a group of Mormon mom influencers implodes when they get caught in the midst of a swinging sex scandal, according to Variety. Now, their sisterhood is shook to its core. Faith, friendship and reputations are all on the line. Will #MomTok be able to survive and continue to give the rulebook a run for its money, or will this group fall from grace?

Taylor Frankie Paul  the Utah influencer at the center of the Mormon swinger drama  will appear in the documentary, as well as fellow momfluencers Demi Engemann, Jennifer Affleck, Jessi Ngatikaura, Layla Wessel, Mayci Neeley, Mikayla Mathews, and Whitney Leavitt.

For those who are unaware, the internet became captivated by the inner-workings of Mormon #MomTok after Paul announced that she and her husband, Tate Paul, were getting divorced. During a 2022 livestream, the now 30-year-old influencer revealed that she had engaged in soft swinging within their married friend group.

In her video, Paul explained that she and Tate  who share two children together  had an agreement in their relationship, but she did step out of that agreement by going all the way with an unnamed man in their close-knit community.

The whole group was intimate with each other, she claimed. It wasnt like I was going around hooking up with my friends husband. It was, like, we were at a party, I got belligerent, and we went and messed around by ourselves rather than the whole group, she said.

However, Tate told followers that she was being shunned by her fellow Mormon momfluencers, despite other members of their friend group taking part in the swinging drama. Unsurprisingly, her comments led many people on the internet to decipher which TikTok stars were involved in the sex scandal, though a number of Mormon #MomTokers have denied their involvement.

Following the swinging drama, Paul debuted her new relationship with boyfriend Dakota Mortensen on social media in August 2022. She was arrested on assault and domestic violence charges in February last year. Paul later pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, while the other four charges were dismissed with prejudice. She reached a plea deal last September.

That same month, Paul announced she and Mortensen were expecting their first baby together. The influencer  who shares daughter Indy, six, and son Ocean, three, with her ex-husband  welcomed son Ever in March this year.

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is executive produced by Jeff Jenkins, known for the reality shows The Simple Life, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, and Bling Empire. All six episodes of the unscripted series will air on Hulu in the US on Friday, September 6.
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Team USAs gold medalist track and field sprinter, Noah Lyles, finished first by five-thousandths of a second in the Paris 2024 Olympics 100m final on August 4. The 27-year-old athletes photo-finish outcome was celebrated, positioning him well to become the first American man to win gold in the 100m and 200m races since Carl Lewis in 1984.

In the wake of Lyles triumph, ahead of the August 8 200m race, his girlfriend, Junelle Bromfield, took to her social media to honor him and his accomplishment. The double is alive, she wrote, insinuating Lyles could make history if he wins the 200m final.

Bromfield, an Olympic track athlete for Team Jamaica, has been linked to Lyles for years. The pair met through social media in 2017, pursuing a romantic relationship. However, nothing came of their first date, according to Lyles. It wasnt until five years later that the duo gave their romance another shot, and it stuck.

Now, the power couple is supporting each other on their track for gold at the Paris 2024 games. And already, Lyles and Bromfield wont be returning home empty-handed.

As eager fans await Lyles Thursday final, what will be an instrumental performance in Olympic history, the crowd curiously looks to his significant other.

Heres everything you need to know about Junelle Bromfield and her seven-year relationship timeline with Lyles.

Bromfield was born in Black River, Jamaica, on February 8, 1998. Now, the athlete resides in Florida with Lyles.

Bromfield and Lyles officially started dating in 2022, five years after their failed first date. According to Cosmopolitan, Bromfield originally reached out to Lyles via Instagram in 2017. The two talked for months before they met in person. After their first date, the duo stopped talking. Lyles then contacted Bromfield again and asked for a second shot. By December 2022, they were more than friends, debuting their relationship online with a heartwarming red-carpet snapshot at the Night of Legends event.

The 26-year-old athlete first attended the Olympics in 2021 for the Tokyo Games. There, she finished third in the 4x400m relay race, winning her first Olympic bronze medal. Since the last summer series, Bromfield has been training alongside Lyles. This year, shes set to compete in the 4x400m relay race again, the womens 400m on August 9, and possibly the 400m final on August 10.

For the past two years, living with Lyles in Florida, Bromfield has grown quite close to his family, especially his mom Keisha Caine. In conversation with The Inside Lane in early July, Bromfield confessed Caine has been majorly helpful in her Florida transition and Olympic training.

She said: I want to give a big shout-out to my boyfriend and his mom because when I went to Florida, I wasnt driving, and she took me to training and back every day, which was like 40 minutes. Thats a support that Im extremely grateful for.

While Bromfield has formed a close connection with Lyles family, Lyles has visited Bromfields loved ones in Jamaica. When you go to Jamaica, youre treated like a freaking rock star, the gold medalist recalled during a 2024 press conference ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics.

In the two years theyve been together, Lyles mental health advocacy has influenced Bromfield to take major steps in her own journey. Lyles has openly talked about his use of prescribed antidepressants since 2020, encouraging others to find solace in his personal story and strength in his continued drive  something Bromfields been able to do.

I started therapy about two years ago because my boyfriend is big on therapy and felt I needed it, she told The Inside Lane. Its been really helpful because Ive been dealing with survivors guilt, which was weighing on me. Now, I feel like I can live my life fully and enjoy every moment because life is short.

On Bromfields influence, Lyles told Inside Track that his relationship has made him more patient. It has taught me a lot of patience and I believe this is my best relationship ever, he said during the March recording.

The two have ensured their professional lives remain separate from their relationship. They may train together, but when it comes time for their track meets, they act like acquaintances with their game face on.

She wont even let me call her baby at practice, Lyles said on the Fast Lane Lifestyle podcast.
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Nine people died, including several young children, and one person was seriously injured when an overloaded SUV went out of control on a rural South Florida road, hit a guardrail and flipped upside down into a canal, authorities said.

The 2023 Ford Explorer was carrying four adults and six children and traveling south on Hatton Highway near Belle Glade at about 7:30 p.m. Monday when it came to a part of the two-lane road that briefly jogs west before again heading south, 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 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 when crews arrived, the SUV was upside-down and partially underwater.

Ive been with the department for 20 years, and this is one of the most difficult scenes Ive been on, Reyes said.

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. Jorden Rickey Hall, 26, was rescued and was said to be in serious condition.

Patrice Wiggins, Pamela Wiggins daughter, set up an online fundraiser to help with funeral expenses.

Lord Please Wake me up from this Nightmare... Lord I know you make no mistakes but Lord Im having a hard time processing this one, she posted earlier on Facebook.

At least one of the victims was said to be from Chesapeake, Virginia, and several victims from Bridgeport, Connecticut, 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.

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.

Belle Glade is a farming community just south of Lake Okeechobee and about 45 miles (70 kilometers) west of West Palm Beach.
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South Koreas KHNP won a lucrative public tender to build at least two nuclear reactors in the Czech Republic as the country tries to become more energy independent and wean itself off fossil fuels, the Czech government said on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Petr Fiala said the bid by the Korean company was better in practically all the criteria than a competing bid by Frances EDF.

A contract is due to be signed by the end of March 2025. The first new reactor is expected to become operational for a trial by 2036, the second about two years later.

The government made its decision after state-controlled power company CEZ assessed the bids for the multi-billion-dollar contract.

KHNP and EDF submitted bids to build at least one reactor at the existing Dukovany nuclear power station in April.

The two new reactors will complement Dukovanys four 510-megawatt units that were completed in the 1980s. The government estimated they would each cost about 200 billion Czech crowns ($8.6 billion).

As part of the bidding, the companies had also submitted offers to build three more nuclear reactors.

The government will open negotiations with KHNP about building two more reactors at the countrys other nuclear plant in Temelin, Fiala said.

The prime minister previously said the additional reactors could reduce the price per reactor by up to 25%.

Russias Rosatom and Chinas CNG were excluded from the tender on security grounds.

The government said in January that a bid by U.S. firm Westinghouse didnt meet its conditions.

The Czech Republic already relies on six nuclear reactors to generate more than a third of its total electricity. Besides the four in Dukovany, state-controlled power company CEZ operates another two 1,000-megawatt reactors at the Temelin plant.

Unlike its western neighbors Austria and Germany, the Czech Republic is doubling down on nuclear power and renewable energy sources after deciding to phase out coal as a fuel for energy generation by 2033 in order to reduce carbon emissions.

Another two European Union countries in Central Europe, Slovakia and Hungary, have also been working to expand nuclear power production. Another neighbor, Poland, has selected Westinghouse to build its first nuclear power plant as part of an effort to burn less coal and gain greater energy independence.
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The removal of basic Maori phrases meaning hello and New Zealand from a Maori lunar new year invitation to an Australian official was not a snub of the Indigenous language by New Zealands government, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Wednesday, seemingly joking that it instead reflected the incredibly simple language required when speaking to Australians.

Luxons defense in Parliament of the lawmaker who ordered the removal of the Maori words from an invitation sent to Australias arts minister was an attempt to rebuff criticism that his government is anti-Maori, as it seeks to reverse policies favoring Indigenous people and language.

The prime minister appeared to indulge in a favorite pastime of New Zealanders, who enjoy a friendly rivalry with their closest neighbors: calling Australians stupid.

In my dealings with Australians, it always pays to be incredibly simple and clear and use English," Luxon said, referring to the invitation sent to Tony Burke.

The invitation offered a welcome new focus after accusations of bullying, racism and insults have increased in New Zealands Parliament in recent weeks, with lawmakers in tears and the prime minister urging all political leaders to watch their rhetoric.

Also Wednesday, Luxon was asked by opposition leader Chris Hipkins about a series of inflammatory remarks he said lawmakers had recently made.

Among them was a report that New Zealands arts, culture and heritage minister, Paul Goldsmith  who signed off on the new year invitation  had directed officials to remove some Maori phrases from the materials, according to documents divulged by 1News.

They included tena koe  a formal way to say hello, learned by New Zealand children in their first year of elementary school  and Aotearoa, a commonplace Maori name for New Zealand.

I just didnt think it needed a lot of te reo in it, Goldsmith told 1News, using a phrase meaning the Maori language, an official one of New Zealand. The language was once close to dying out, but activists provoked a revival over several decades, and common Maori words or phrases are now in everyday use among all New Zealanders.

The same movement prompted a revival of Matariki, the Maori lunar new year, which was established as a nationwide public holiday in 2020.

Since assuming office after the 2023 election, Luxons coalition government has prompted fraught public debates about race. One was over a return to English names for government agencies, many of which had assumed Maori titles in recent years.

Another was over ending initiatives that offer priority to Maori, who lag behind other New Zealanders in most health, economic and justice statistics.

Protestors gathered outside Parliament in the capital, Wellington, this week to oppose the governments plans to remove recognition of a childs Maori heritage from the law governing the child protection system.

We value te reo in this government, Luxon said Wednesday,
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Congos President Felix Tshisekedi accused former leader Joseph Kabila of backing a U.S.-sanctioned coalition of rebel groups during an interview with a private radio station on Tuesday.

Joseph Kabila boycotted the election and is preparing an insurrection because he is the AFC, Tshisekedi said, referring to the Alliance Fleuve Congo, a political-military movement launched in December with the aim of uniting armed groups, political parties and civil society against Congos government. He did not provide any evidence to support his claim.

Tshisekedi's accusation follows the U.S. announcement of sanctions against the AFC last month. Washington accused the alliance of seeking to overthrow Congo's government and fueling conflict in the east of the country. It said the main member of the alliance, the renowned rebel group M23, is already under U.S. sanctions.

Tshisekedi, along with U.S. and U.N. experts, accuse neighboring Rwanda of giving military backing to M23. Rwanda denies the claim, but in February it effectively admitted that it has troops and missile systems in eastern Congo to safeguard its security, pointing to a buildup of Congolese forces near the border.

Congo and Rwanda last week agreed to a cease-fire that began on Sunday following talks mediated by Angola.

Eastern Congo has struggled with armed violence as more than 120 groups fight for power, land and valuable mineral resources, while others try to defend their communities. Some armed groups have been accused of mass killings.

The violence concentrated in the eastern North Kivu province has resulted not just in arbitrary killings but also in sexual abuses. More than one in 10 women living in displaced people camps in the region reported being raped between November 2023 and April 2024, said Doctors without Borders, or MSF, in a report released Tuesday.

In three of the camps where we work, we treated more than 1,700 survivors of sexual violence in April. In 70% of cases, these acts of violence are committed by weapons carriers, said Laura Garel, a communications advisor at MSF.

____

Follow APs Africa coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/africa
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U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel will skip this year's atomic bombing memorial service in Nagasaki because Israel was not invited, the embassy said Wednesday.

Emanuel - who is Jewish - will not attend the event on Friday because it was politicized by Nagasaki's decision not to invite Israel, the embassy said.

He will instead honor the victims of the Nagasaki atomic bombing at a ceremony at a Buddhist temple in Tokyo, it said.

An atomic bomb dropped by the United States on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, destroyed the city, killing 140,000 people. A second bomb dropped three days later on Nagasaki killed 70,000 more. Japan surrendered on Aug. 15, 1945, ending World War II and the country's nearly half-century of aggression in Asia.

Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki had indicated his reluctance in June to invite Israel, noting the escalating conflict in the Middle East. He announced last week that Israel was not invited because of concern over possible unforeseen situations" such as protests, sabotage or attacks on attendants. Nagasaki hoped to honor the atomic bomb victims in a peaceful and solemn atmosphere, he said.

Suzuki said he made the decision based on "various developments in the international community in response to the ongoing situation in the Middle East" that suggested a possible risk that the ceremony would be disturbed.

In contrast, Hiroshima invited the Israeli ambassador to Japan to its memorial ceremony on Tuesday among 50,000 attendees who included Emanuel and other envoys, though Palestinian representatives were not invited.

Nagasaki officials said they were told that an official of the U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka will represent the United States at Friday's ceremony. Five other Group of Seven nations  Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the U.K.  and the European Union are also expected to send lower-ranking envoys to Nagasaki.

Envoys from those nations signed a joint letter expressing their shared concern about Israel's exclusion, saying treating the country on the same level as Russia and Belarus  the only other countries not invited  would be misleading.

The envoys urged Nagasaki to reverse the decision and invite Israel to preserve the universal message of the city's ceremony. The exclusion of Israel would make their high-level participation difficult, they said.

British Ambassador to Japan Julia Longbottom, who attended the 79th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on Tuesday, told Japanese media that she planned to skip the Nagasaki ceremony because the city's decision to exclude Israel could send a wrong message.
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Nearly 100 bottles of 19th-century Champagne and mineral water nestled in a shipwreck off the south of Sweden will remain there  for now.

No one will be allowed to fish out the bounty without proper authorisation, officials said on Wednesday.

Though the wreck's location has been known since 2016 and is registered in Sweden's National Antiquities Offices cultural environment, it was only on July 11 that Polish scuba divers found the precious cargo.

The wreck, which sits at about 58 meters (190 feet) deep off the coast of the southern Sweden county of Blekinge, was found by the divers while they were checking spots of interest about 37 kilometers (20 nautical miles) south of the Swedish Baltic Sea island of Oeland.

Diving group BalticTech detected what appeared to be an old fishing boat on their sonar, about 20 nautical miles south of the Aland Islands, situated between Sweden and Finland.

At first, there were doubts whether there would be anyone willing to go down, the group mentioned in a post on their website. However, two divers decided to explore and took the plunge.

When they failed to return after two hours, the remaining team members suspected that there was something very interesting on the bottom.

They were right. The divers descended to find a 19th-century sailing ship in very good condition, loaded to the sides with champagne, wine, mineral water, and porcelain.

Wine and water experts have quickly contacted the divers and been vying to carry out laboratory tests on the contents of the bottles, according to the divers' leader, Tomasz Stachura. However, Swedish authorities have put their foot down and labeled the sunken ship an ancient relic which the county says requires a clear and strong protection to remain intact.

Bottles of Champagne in a 19th century sailing ship wreckage that a team of Polish divers discovered

You must not damage the ancient remains, which also includes taking items from the wreck, e.g. champagne bottles, without permission from the county, Magnus Johansson, a county official told The Associated Press. The champagne bottles are a fantastically well-preserved find that gives us a snapshot of shipping and life on board at the end of the 19th century, he added.

A diver from the Polish Baltictech team inspects wreckage of a 19th century sailing ship that the team discovered July 1

Had the wreck been from before 1850, it would automatically have been listed as an ancient relic, local authorities said.

But we have established that the cultural and historical values of the wreck were so high that it should be declared as an ancient relic, Daniel Tedenlind, a county official in neighboring Kalmar.

Stachura, the diver, earlier said it was believed that the cargo could have been on the way to the royal table in Stockholm or the Russian tsars residence in St. Petersburg when the ship sank sometime in the second half of the 19th century.
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A man has been arrested after a video circulating on social media reportedly showed a Muslim couple in a car being chased by a man wielding a hedge trimmer.

Footage shared widley showed a man running out of a petrol station shop in Greater Manchester towards a white van, retrieving a hedge trimmer from the vehicle, before running towards another vehicle.

The clip, filmed from inside the couples car, then showed a man approaching their vehicle wielding the tool as they drove away from the forecourt.

In a statement on Wednesday, Greater Manchester Police said: We were made aware of a video circulating on social media which showed a man approaching a vehicle in possession of a hedge trimmer on Monday evening (5 August 2024).

Our officers acted swiftly and last night (Tuesday 6 August 2024), arrested a man in his 30s on suspicion of affray.

He remains in police custody for questioning and enquiries are ongoing.

Police are not currently investigating the incident as a hate crime, The Independent has learned.

The incident came amid widespread rioting across the country by the far-right, seeking to exploit the fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport last week.

The disorder appears to have been stoked in part by social media misinformation that the suspect was an asylum seeker of Muslim faith who arrived in the UK by small boat in 2023.

Several mosques across the country have been targeted during the riots, while hotels housing asylum seekers in Rotherham and Tamworth were attacked by thugs over the weekend.

Around 400 people have been arrested in connection with rioting and 100 individuals have been charged.

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.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer promised communities will be safe after a Cobra meeting and said those taking part in the unrest will feel the full force of the law.
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Police are braced for more than 100 protests across the country tonight amid fears far-right groups are planning to target immigration services,The Independent understands.

Officers are also expecting more than 30 counter protests as 6,000 riot officers prepare for another evening of potential unrest - with prosecutors warning the publication of a hit list of immigration centres and lawyers by the far-right could amount to terrorism.

Senior police sources also revealed investigations are ongoing into high influence keyboard warriors as they probe if inflammatory posts amount to inciting violence.

Those cases are being built and intelligence is being built around them, a source said, although arrests may not happen immediately.

We are well resourced in terms of intelligence units and investigators to monitor those individuals online and take action where it crosses the line into criminality.

An immigration bureau in London is boarding up its windows amid fears of further clashes on Wednesday ( Reuters )

Officers have mobilised nationally  with mutual aid being used to bolster some forces. Metropolitan Police resources have deployed to Great Manchester Police, The Independent understands, and units from the southeast are being deployed to north east and north west.

Plans being circulated for tonight are being treated as credible and forces are braced for dozens of demos as immigration advice centres and lawyers offices batten down the hatches amid fears of fresh clashes.

We think its looking like a credible picture and theres going to be lots and lots of gatherings, the police source added, however none are thought to have been planned at accommodation housing asylum seekers.

Whether it reaches the 100s we dont know but certainly there will be dozens and dozens across the country.

Intelligence is showing a level of coordination but it is said to be unsophisticated  with officers often seeing known low-level criminals using the unrest as an excuse to commit violence or join in looting.

Meanwhile the countrys top prosecutor warned the publication of details of immigration law firms as potential targets for disorder could be considered for terrorism charges.

Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Parkinson said: The fact that its organised groups that might be motivated by ideological reasons, the fact that theyre promoting potentially very serious offences - thats the sort of instance where we might want to consider terrorism charges.

His warning comes as the head of Counter Terrorism Policing vowed not to hesitate if disorder crosses into terrorism.

Terrorism Policing Assistant Commissioner Matt Jukes said: Counter Terrorism Policing is actively assessing incidents to understand whether terrorism legislation should be applied and we will make those judgements without fear or favour.

Our message to those involved in this disorder is; we are watching and we will not hesitate to use our powers to protect our communities.

A car was set alight during clashes in Middlesbrough on Sunday ( Owen Humphreys/PA Wire )

The Metropolitan Police has 1,300 public order officers deployed across the capital, as deputy assistant commissioner Andy Valentine urged parents to keep their children at home.

Everyone can play a role by not sharing inflammatory online speculation and giving our officers space to undertake their important duties, he said.

We also ask parents to think carefully about where their children are today and in coming days. No-one wants to be caught up in potentially violent and criminal behaviour.

It comes as Derek Drummond, 58, of Pool Street, Southport, was sentenced to three years in prison after he admitted violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker during clashes in Southport last week.

He is the first person to receive a substantial prison sentence for taking part in the violence that has rocked parts of the UK over the past week in the wake of the killing of three children in the town.

Two other men, Declan Geiran, 29, and Liam Riley, 40, received sentences of 30 months and 20 months respectively for joining clashes Liverpool on Saturday as rioters continue to be hauled before the courts.

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said the sentences were an example of the swift action were taking, adding: If you provoke violent disorder on our streets or online, you will face the full force of the law.

Three years: Derek Drummond, 58, was jailed for three years at Liverpool Crown Court ( Merseyside Police )

The Crown Prosecution Service has so far charged more than 140 people in relation to the unrest as police chiefs continued to warn rioters they could expect a knock at the door.

The National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) said they expected that number to rise significantly in the coming days, as officers looked to make further arrests.

Chief Constable BJ Harrington, the NPCC lead for public order, said that police and the CPS would be seeking to minimise the number of suspects released on bail. Many defendants with no previous convictions have already been remanded in custody after a first appearance in court.

Some immigration advice centres are boarding up windows after dozens of targets linked to immigration services were shared on a far-right hit list for demonstrations planned at 8pm on Wednesday.

The Law Society, representing solicitors in England and Wales, said it has serious concerns about the safety of its members after the list of alleged targets was shared on Telegram.

Sir Mark Rowley, the head of the Metropolitan Police, said threats against immigration lawyers were at the centre of our planning tonight, adding: We will not let the immigration asylum system be intimidated.

Anti-migration protesters targeted aHoliday Inn Express housing asylum seekers in Rotherham on Saturday ( Getty )

A leader at an immigration advice centre in Sheffield revealed he is worried about the potential for serious violence after rioters tried to set fire to hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham at the weekend.

He told The Independent: Im worried about the outside of the building. If its anything like the Rotherham hotel then this is serious stuff. It looks like these people are taking this destruction seriously.

Staff have been advised to stay at home, the buildings sign has been taken down and windows have been boarded up.

A refugee charity in Oxford is closing the office early and staff are working with police ahead of a planned protest and counter protest.

The charitys director said users have left fearful of the violence spreading after other protests saw asylum seeker accommodation targeted by thugs.

More follows on this breaking news story...
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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.
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Complaints that far-right riots over the last week have been dealt with more harshly than other recent unrest amount to racist gaslighting, equality campaigners have said.

Metropolitan Police chief Sir Mark Rowley has rejected accusations of two-tier policing as complete nonsense, and said those making the claims were putting officers at risk.

The government has also dismissed suggestions the riots have been dealt with more stringently than other recent disorder and protests.

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, who has been dubbed two-tier Keir by US Twitter/X boss Elon Musk, has called the accusations a non-issue.

The prime minister has also been accused by Tory leadership contender Robert Jenrick of not being as clear as he could be that some of the disorder emanated from sectarian gangs.

The traction that the phrase two-tier policing has gained is yet another example of mainstream media complicit in racist gaslighting, the UKs leading racial justice think tank Runnymede Trust said.

US billionaire Elon Musk has attacked the prime minister over policing of riots in the UK ( AP/PA )

Dr Shabna Begum, the charitys CEO, told The Independent: It is insulting to allege that communities of colour face more favourable policing.

The traction that the phrase two-tier policing has gained is yet another example of mainstream media complicit in racist gaslighting.

It implies that there was an equivalent level of violence at largely peaceful BLM [Black Lives Matter] protests, and that the BLM protests were softly policed; neither are true.

The idea that policing has ever favoured communities of colour is a direct insult, given everything we know about the disproportionality of the use of force against them.

Statistics show many racial disparities in everyday policing. Official data states police forces across England and Wales disproportionately stop and search people from ethnic minority communities.

Black people accounted for 46 per cent of all stop and searches in the year ending March 2023, compared with their 4 per cent proportion of the population, while Asian people account for 39 per cent, compared with their 9 per cent of the population.

Runnymede argues that the evidence of racialised two-tiered policing bears out in the nature of charges applied to those involved in the ongoing racist riots.

If anything, there should be a question mark about why charges thus far have been for violent disorder rather than the more serious riot charges which were used against Kill the Bill protestors in 2021, Ms Begum added.

Pointing to the London uprisings of 2011, sparked in response to Mark Duggans fatal shooting, barrister Abimbola Johnson told The Independent that the current two-tier claims are ahistorical.

A spate of riots by far-right demonstrators have broken out across the country ( Owen Humphreys/PA )

In 2011, we saw a lot of custodial sentences being handed down to those convicted of participating in the riots, Ms Johnson, also the chair of a police race action plan, said.

Many of them were young, people of colour and first-time offenders. We saw a significant number of people arrested and then charged off the basis of police-led identification evidence from often rather grainy CCTV images  and a significant expansion in the use of controversial suspicionless stop and search powers.

A lot of first-time offenders were also given custodial sentences due to the context of public unrest. The idea that using similar approaches now signifies two-tiered policing is therefore ahistorical and frankly untrue.

Earlier this year, a study by the Network for Policing Monitoring (Netpol) detailed a confused, racist and threatening police response to pro-Palestine marches with unusually high levels of surveillance and harassment

In 2021, Netpol published another report about how Black Lives Matter protests were policed, which uncovered excessive use of force including baton charges, horse charges, pepper spray and violent arrest.

Kevin Blowe, campaigns coordinator at Netpol, described claims of two-tier policing as a deliberate racist and Islamophobic dog-whistle, as well as a distraction.

They are intended to pretend the far right and its deliberate violence are just legitimate opinions that are unfairly policed, he told The Independent.

Campaigners argue police also took aggressive action during Black Lives Matter protests ( AFP/Getty )

I can understand why people might want to prove this is untrue by analysing arrest and sentencing statistics, but this is exactly what the far right wants too: a distraction from its own violent behaviour.

The more important question is what a politician like Farage is siding with and embracing, at the worst possible moment, the language of rioters terrorising communities.

Violent unrest has broken out in parts of the UK after false speculation about the identity of the teenager suspected of killing three young girls in a knife attack in Southport last month.

More than 400 arrests have been made at far-right marches, while more than 100 people have now been charged.

Midlands-based bishop Desmond Jaddoo, founder of the Windrush National Organisation, said the two-tier discourse is an ongoing tit-for-tat diversion.

There is a lot of political rhetoric being used here; we must not forget our three little girls who have lost their lives and we must not forget that this unrest is sheer racism, he told The Independent.

These comments are unhelpful in terms of creating a better Britain whose post-war wealth is based upon people of colour and the Windrush generation and the wider commonwealth playing their part.

The only tough talk we need as a nation right now is to tackle the root causes of this once and for all  as we have a periodic cycle of racial unrest, which only sparks comment with no tangible outcome or progression towards us living together as a nation of people from diverse backgrounds.
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While footage shows men have dominated the far-right riots that have erupted across England and Northern Ireland, women also featured in the unrest.

More than 400 people have been arrested since the violence began  with 100 already charged and suspects now going through the courts.

Rioters have attacked mosques, ambushed riot police, set fire to a hotel housing migrants and torched a public library and Citizens Advice Bureau building. There have been multiple incidents of ethnic minorities being attacked on the streets.

One expert in gender and radicalisation told The Independent social media has led to women sometimes having a more visible role in far-right movements.

Leanne Hodgson pleaded guilty to violent disorder after video shared widely online showed her trying to ram a large bin towards a police line in Sunderland on the weekend.

At South Tyneside Magistrates Court, the 43-year-old denied involvement in the original demonstration but said she had been out drinking and became caught up in the disorder when the pub shut.

Leanne Hodgson, 43, pleaded guilty to violent disorder ( Northumbria Police )

The court was told she has a long-running alcohol problem, and she was remanded in custody to be sentenced on 2 September.

In a clip from Middlesborough, 34-year-old Stacy Vint was captured pushing a burning wheelie bin, along with a man, into a police line before she fell to the ground at the feet of riot officers. She pleaded guilty to violent disorder and was remanded in custody, to be sentenced on August 28.

Sammy Woodhouse, a survivor of the Rotherham child sexual exploitation scandal, has been at the protests shooting video for a website which fundraises for far-right activist Tommy Robinson.

Other women sharing posts about the demonstrations include influencers Yorkshire Rose and Laura Towler, who have tens of thousands of followers.

Rotherham grooming scandal survivor Sammy Woodhouse has been active during the unrest ( PA )

The riots started in the aftermath of the fatal stabbing of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club in Southport. Misinformation spread quickly claiming the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker who came to the UK on a small boat crossing.

The already-grieving Southport community then saw the arrival of far-right thugs last Tuesday to take part in violent unrest.

Axel Rudakubana, an 18-year-old born in Wales who had been living in Banks in Lancashire at the time of the attack, has since been charged with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder.

One person to later apologise and delete a social media post was childminder and wife of a Tory councillor Lucy Connolly.

The 41-year-old was arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred after posting on X: Mass deportation now, set fire to all the f***ing hotels full of the b******* for all I care... If that makes me racist, so be it.

She has since apologised, saying she had acted on false and malicious information.

Lucy Connolly, 41, was arrested over a Twitter post ( Supplied )

Anne Craanen, senior research and policy manager at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, said: We can already see womens involvement offline in the riots and also via social media content and the live streams that have been circulating for a while for these riots. You can see more men though to be very clear.

She warned women  both those with hefty online followings and those without  are spreading misinformation online.

Ms Craaenen argued the rise of social media has changed womens roles in the far right and reveals activity which previously would have been hidden.

Stacy Vint admitted violent disorder after pushing a burning wheelie bin into a row of police before she fell to the ground and was arrested ( Sky News )

Men in these movements are often incredibly misogynistic and the women in these movements often also receive that misogyny, she said.

Women in the far right are happy to go back to their traditional gender roles, but then on the other hand that is a juxtaposition with what we are seeing with women actually becoming violent on the streets.

She called for more attention to be paid to gender dynamics within the far right and to the role of masculinity within extremism.
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A week has passed since the Southport stabbings which left three young girls dead after attending a dance class at a holiday club.

Riots erupted across the country in response as misinformation on the suspects identity spread  and the violent unrest has continued to spread through the UK in recent days.

So far more than 400 arrests have been made with the number expected to rise in the coming days, according to national police sources, with many now charged and starting to appear in court.

The far-right is being held responsible for the riots which have been able to propagate in pockets across the country through encrypted social media channels like Telegram.

Violence erupted across England and in Northern Ireland ( PA Wire )

The violence has become so prolific that countries including Nigeria, Malaysia, Australia, Indonesia, the UAE and India have all issued safety warnings to their nationals living in or visiting the UK.

The Independent has collated a list of the number of arrests and charges made in relation to the riots since the Southport stabbings on 29 July. The information below was up-to-date as of the evening of Tuesday, 6 August.

Southport

Two people have been charged with violent disorder after severe unrest last week, said Merseyside Police.

Dylan Carey, 26, of Castle Hill Road in Hindley, Greater Manchester, will appear in Liverpool Magistrates Court over violent disorder on St Lukes Road in Southport last Tuesday.

A 15-year-old boy from Liverpool has also been charged with violent disorder after riots on Paradise Street in Liverpool city centre on Saturday.

Merseyside Police confirmed a total of 13 people have appeared in court over the past two days charged in connection with the riots in Southport, Liverpool city centre and Walton.

The first wave of discontent struck in Southport, at a vigil held in memory of Bebe King, 6, Elsie Dot Stancombe, 7, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9  all of whom died following a stabbing attack at a Taylor Swift dance class.

Violent scenes emerged hours after the vigil close to the location of the deaths, which saw hundreds of people gathering. This incident alone left 39 police officers injured  eight with serious injuries after clashing with violent rioters. A mosque was also targeted and an emergency service vehicle was engulfed by flames after it was set alight.

Total number of arrests: 41

Total number of charges: 13

London

The Metropolitan Police has vowed to protect Londoners as more riots have been orchestrated for 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.

A far-right motivated riot which happened in Whitehall last Wednesday saw 111 arrests made for offences including violent disorder, assaults on police officers, possession of knives and offensive weapons and breach of protest conditions.

Missiles such as bottles, flares, and other objects were thrown at police leaving five officers injured.

Assistant commissioner Matt Twist said: There is absolutely no place for this on our streets. We will ensure that anyone involved in any violent disorder and criminal behaviour will be stopped, arrested and will face justice.

Total number of arrests: 111

Total number of charges: TBC

Hartlepool and Middlesbrough

There were 28 people who appeared at Teesside Magistrates Court on Tuesday following the disorder in Middlesbrough at the weekend.

Those who appeared in court were between 16 and 56, said Cleveland Police.

The names of those due in court for alleged violent disorder from Middlesbrough are: Afran Magid, 18, of Byelands Street, David Gove, 41, of Brafferton Walk, Anthony Brown, 37, of Windsor Road, Andrew Livingstone, 53, of Clifton Street, Stacy Vint, 34, of Normanby Road, Kaleb Peacock Lightfoot, 19, of Dixon Grove, Robert Parsons, 56, of West Lane, Paul Sizer, 40, of Penrith Road, Ashley Ferguson, 33, of Somerset Street, Jonathan Ambrose, 33, of Letitia House, Thomas Rodgers, 22, of Wicklow Street, James Bullock, 20, Lennon Chisholm, 21, both of Berwick Hills Avenue, Lewis Loughlin, 23, of Victoria Road, Carl Robson, 29, of Halton Court, Mohammed Adam, 20, of Acton Street, Akheel Khan, 24, of Wheatley Close, Saleem Khan, 23, of Newlands Road, and Rosh Mahmood, 19, of Victoria Road.

A car burns in Parliament Road, Middlesbrough ( PA Wire )

The others charged with violent disorder are: Jamie Govan, 26, of Windmill Terrace, Stockton, a 16-year-old boy, of Thornaby, Joseph Mackenzie, 28, of Skeldale Grove, Darlington, Lawrence McGlade, 28, of Ellerbeck Way, Ormesby, Jonathan Lodge, 36, of Coatham Road, Redcar, Connor Stokes, 26, of Mansfield Avenue, Thornaby and Regan Walker, 23, of Stanley Road, Stockton.

Ethan Bowes, 18, of Woodhouse Road, Guisborough has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon  and Thomas Bennett, 32, is wanted on a warrant, the force said.

A woman has pleaded guilty to violent disorder after hurling a burning wheelie bin into police officers before falling to the ground and being arrested. 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, Teesside Magistrates Court heard.

Vint will remain in custody until her sentencing on August 28.

A teenager exclaimed in court after claims he threw missiles at police and members of the public. Kaleb Peacock Lightfoot, 19, of Dixon Grove, Middlesbrough, denied a charge of violent disorder after attending what he believed to be a peaceful protest, the court heard.

He will attend court again on August 28, and is reported to have been visibly distressed.

A further two men  one, 29 of Sandbanks Drive in Hartlepool, and another, a 38-year-old from Oliver Street in Middlesbrough both attended separately and voluntarily at Middlesbrough police station on Monday 5 August.

They were charged on Tuesday after being questioned by detectives on Monday night for violent disorder and will be remanded in custody until they attend Teesside Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

Assistant chief constable David Felton said: Those who have chosen to cause real harm in our communities will not get away with it, and we will continue to work to identify those responsible and make further arrests throughout the coming days.

Total number of arrests: 62

Total number of charges: 42 with more to follow

Aldershot

At least seven arrests have been made since a protest outside the Potters International Hotel on Wednesday 31 July.

Despite reports of a peaceful protest, a riotous few of the 200 people who attended began to throw objects and spout racial abuse, said Hampshire Police.

Two men including a 32-year-old man from Farnborough and a 60-year-old man from Farnham were arrested on suspicion of affray and using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to stir up racial hatred.

A further arrest was made for a 19-year-old man from Ash on suspicion of affray, burglary dwelling  with intent to steal, using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to stir up racial hatred, common assault of an emergency worker and criminal damage.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Rotherham

In Rotherham, a Holiday Inn used to house asylum seekers was violently attacked as rioters attempted to set fire to the building and police were attacked with missiles and fireworks.

South Yorkshire Police said a total of 51 officers were injured as a result of violence.

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. Joshua Simpson, 26, of Sherbrook Street, Lincoln, has been charged with violent disorder and assault of an emergency worker.

All six appeared at Sheffield Magistrates Court on Tuesday, the force added.

Rioters smashed the windows of a Holiday Inn in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, before starting fires on Sunday ( PA Wire )

Total number of arrests: 2

Total number of charges: 8

Tamworth and Stoke-on-Trent

A teenager was arrested by Staffordshire Police after investigating senseless violence in Tamworth and Stoke-on-Trent at the weekend.

A 16-year-old boy from Tamworth has been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and is in custody.

The force also put out an identification appeal after rioters struck a police dog with a brick and left six officers injured during the violent disorder.

The police dog Vixen suffered a gash above her right eye after a violent attacker threw a brick at her  she is recovering at home after receiving medical treatment, the force said.

Two people have been charged with offences after the unrest in Stoke-on-Trent.

Jarrod Hollinshead, aged 26, of no fixed address, has been charged with using threatening or abusive words and or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

Lee Bodman, aged 52, from Stoke-on-Trent, has been charged with assault by beating of an emergency worker and breaching a criminal behaviour order.

Both will appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre on 22 August.

Staffordshire Police said: A dedicated team of detectives are reviewing the vast array of footage from the scenes in Tamworth on Sunday and Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday as efforts intensify to bring those responsible to justice.

More people will be arrested in Staffordshire in the coming days.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Bolton

A man has been jailed, another has received a community order, and four have been charged following the disorder in Bolton on Sunday.

James Nelson, 18, of Victoria Road, Horwich, Bolton, is the first to receive a prison sentence after the unrest in relation to the Southport stabbings. He was jailed for two months after pleading guilty to causing criminal damage at Manchester Magistrates Court.

Liam Powell, 28, of Hendon Court, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, received a 12-month community order after he admitted being in possession of cocaine during the disorder in the Greater Manchester town.

Two men and two teenagers were also charged in connection to disorder in Bolton at the weekend.

Lancashire Police said Dominic Stanbridge, 31, of Highland Drive, Buckshaw, has been charged with violent disorder. The second man, James Nelson, 18, of Victoria Road, Horwich, has been charged with criminal damage.

Both will remain in custody ahead of their appearance at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court on Tuesday, the force added.

The two 16-year-old boys were charged separately, one for violent disorder and the other for possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, police said.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: 8

Liverpool

A man and a teenage boy have been charged with violent disorder after the unrest in Merseyside last week.

Dylan Carey, 26, of Castle Hill Road in Hindley, Greater Manchester will appear at Liverpool Magistrates Court charged with violent disorder on St Lukes Road in Southport last Tuesday.

The 15-year-old boy from Liverpool is charged with violent disorder on Paradise Street in Liverpool city centre on Saturday.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Bristol

An additional third man was charged in connection with violent disorder in Bristol city centre on Saturday, Avon and Somerset Police said.

Ashley Harris, 36, of Chipperfield Drive, Kingswood, was charged with violent disorder and will appear at Bristol Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

Two other men, 45 and 39, were charged with Section 4 public order offences on Sunday and will appear in court in September.

Total number of arrests: 17

Total number of charges: 3

Plymouth

Devon and Cornwall Police have put out an appeal for anyone with information as they anticipate further arrests following the disorder in Plymouth on Monday.

Police confirmed six people have been arrested so far.

Assistant chief constable Nikki Leaper told Sky News: We will deal with any criminal offence robustly, we will not accept violence on our streets. We were there to facilitate a peaceful protest, people in this country absolutely can have peaceful protests, but we will not accept violence and we will deal with it as the police service.

Disorder on Monday saw six arrests in Plymouth and several officers suffered minor injuries in the violence, Devon and Cornwall Police said.

Total number of arrests: 6

Total number of charges: TBC

Birmingham

West Midlands Police arrested a 46-year-old man after TV footage showed a man apparently armed with a weapon at a counter-protest in Bordesley Green, Birmingham, on Monday night.

Police said an assault on a drinker outside Yardleys Clumsy Swan pub is also being investigated as a violent disorder.

Extensive damage caused to windows at the pub, along with attempts to slash a tyre on a Sky News vehicle, and damage caused to a Skoda car which was forced to drive across a grassed area after being attacked is being investigated.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Belfast

Mondays disorder had paramilitary involvement in Northern Ireland, said the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

Assistant chief constable Melanie Jones said she has no doubt there is a paramilitary element, describing scenes on Monday of younger adults appearing to be directed by older people.

A man in his fifties is in hospital after attackers stamped on his head in what is believed to be a racially motivated hate crime.

Members of the public attempted to shield him from further attack in the Donegall Road and Oban Street area.

A 15-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour.

The protest and counter-protest involved roughly 40 people in the area of Ormeau Avenue on Monday evening.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Violence erupted on Donegall Road in Belfast ( PA Wire )

Darlington

An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, assaulting a police officer and possession of a controlled drug, according to Durham Police.

Officers said the violence resulted in small pockets of serious violence, which saw bricks being thrown at police officers who attended the scene.

He remains in custody as of Tuesday morning.

Total number of arrests: 1

Total number of charges: TBC

Leeds

A man was charged with intending to stir up racial hatred relating to alleged posts on Facebook, said the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

Nick Price, 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 appeared at Leeds Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Far-right thugs have taken to the streets, taking their children along to the riots ( Owen Humphreys/PA Wire )

Nottingham

Officers have issued a warning after posts on social media revealed plans for a targeted riot to take place on Wednesday.

Nottinghamshire Police have urged anyone planning to attend in West Bridgford tomorrow not to.

An address for East Midlands Immigration Services has been shared on social media as a potential location for a protest on Wednesday evening, but it has no links to the business, Nottinghamshire Police said.

In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, the force said: 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.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Chester

A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated harassment with intent to cause fear and violence after a social media post encouraging members of the public to protest outside a hotel, Cheshire Police said.

A force spokesman said officers received reports on Sunday of a post on Snapchat encouraging people to attend a protest outside a Cheshire hotel, which it falsely stated was home to a number of asylum seekers.

The post did not result in disorder, the force said.

The 32-year-old man and 34-year-old woman, from Chester, were arrested on Monday and later released on conditional bail pending further enquiries.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC

Weymouth

Dorset Police charged David Fuller, 62, from Yeovil, Somerset, after being drunk and disorderly in a public place following a protest in Weymouth on Sunday.

He is set to attend Weymouth Magistrates Court on 22 August.

A 42-year-old man from Yeovil was arrested on suspicion of public order offences and further arrested on suspicion of obstructing or resisting a constable in the execution of their duty and has been released on police bail while police inquiries continue, the force has said.

A 27-year-old man from Weymouth was issued with a conditional caution after being arrested on suspicion of assault.

Total number of arrests: TBC

Total number of charges: TBC
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Riots have spread across England and Northern Ireland in recent days following the killings of three young girls in Southport on 29 July.

Authorities are working to curb the serious civil disorder, with over 400 arrests made and dozens of police officers injured.

The scenes began with one far-right riot on July 30. This then led to dozens of similar events taking place across the UK over the weekend. More violence has been planned for Wednesday, with migrant centres all over the country thought to be the targets for violence.

More suspects are due in court following riots across the country (Owen Humphreys/PA) ( PA Wire )

For the latest updates, follow The Independents live coverage

Prime minister Keir Starmer has held two emergency meetings as he deliberates a response to the disorder. Speaking on Tuesday, he said communities 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 that is in place, he said.

Politicians on the right such as Nigel Farage have accused the PM of not dealing with the escalating violence quickly enough, and of overseeing two-tier policing. This far-right talking point has also been parroted by Twitter / X owner Elon Musk, who publicly mocked and criticised Sir Keir on Tuesday.

As the far-right riots continue to take place across the UK, heres everything you need to know:

What started the riots?

The first riot took place in Southport on 30July. It was sparked by the deaths of Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine. They were attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the town the day before when they were killed in a multiple stabbing which left eight other children injured.

Axel Rudakubana, now 18, has been charged with their murders alongside 10 counts of attempted murder. His identity was initially not revealed by police due to him being 17 when he was arrested. This was because criminal law in the UK grants children appearing in court automatic anonymity.

People gather to mourn victims of the Southport knife attack by holding a vigil in town, August 5 ( Getty )

Before Rudakubanas identity was revealed, false claims that he was a Muslim and asylum seeker proliferated online. Posts and videos sharing misinformation accrued millions of views, provoking anger amongst the far-right. Reports show that messaging platforms with anonymity features, such as Telegram, were then used to mobilise the large group.

One channel on the Russian-owned platform  named Southport Rise Up  had over 13,000 members at one point, as it continued to post locations for rioters to target even over the weekend. The channel has since been removed, with a spokesperson saying the platforms rules explicitly forbid calls to violence.

Mr Rudakubanas anonymity was lifted the day after the Southport riot, on 1 August. At Liverpool Crown Court, the presiding judge said this was because he would turn 18 in just six days, and adding: Continuing to prevent full reporting at this stage has the disadvantage of allowing others who are up to mischief to continue to spread misinformation.

Rioting in Southport, July 30 ( Getty )

Despite this, far-right rioting still took place over the weekend, on August 3 and 4. Those involved could be seen shouting Islamophobic and anti-immigrant chants, fighting with police, looting, and attacking people of colour. One incident in Rotherham saw rioters set alight a hotel thought to be housing asylum seekers, and then barricading the exit. No injuries were reported.

Riots broke out dozens of towns and cities. Manchester, Liverpool, Hull, and Belfast all saw violent scenes as rioters fought police or clashed with counter-protesters.

And more are planned. Far-right organisers have attempted to mobilise people to riot in nearly 40 locations on Wednesday, making migrant centres the target.
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A billionaire private equity tycoon may have run into one of his most formidable opponents yet: the great crested newt.

Stephen Schwarzman, who is the boss of Blackstone and considered one of the most powerful men on Wall Street, has been complaining to chancellor Rachel Reeves about the problems hes been having on his country pile in Wiltshire.

Mr Schwarzman purchased Conholt Park, a 17th century estate in 2022, and has planning permission for development including a three-storey wing, a renovation of the stables and a new lake.

However, as part of the process Mr Schwarzmans contractors will have to follow a habitat strategy prepared by ecologists and check each day for great crested newts, despite a previous survey finding there were none at the site.

The private equity tycoon has been regaling Ms Reeves about the various planning issues he has to navigate in order to comply with his planning permission, the Financial Times reports.

Stephen Schwarzman

Ms Reeves was due to meet him in New York on Tuesday night, impressing on her the difficulties of building things in the UK.

The chancellor has made streamlining the planning process one of her many targets to fixing the foundations of Britains economy and sparking future economic growth.

A part of the coversation will also have been a new data centre that Blackstone is hoping to build in Blyth in Northumberland  the sort of project Ms Reeves is hoping to fast track.

However, Ms Reeves can do little about Mr Schwarzmans current newt issue which requires he abide by a number of concessions, according to a plan submitted in May to Wiltshire Council.

These include having an ecologist on site during construction and workers checking the site for the great crested newt.

In addition, mitigation for the newts should run for at least 30 years from the completion of the development. Blackstone has been approached for comment.

Great crested newts, which are black with spotted flanks and an orange belly, are protected under UK and European wildlife law.

Their numbers are in decline, with habitat loss being their biggest threat.

In 2023 former prime minister Boris Johnson also ran into problems with the great crested newt.

The ex-MP had previously pledged to do whatever it takes to protect the newt population, including building newt motels if necessary, to get permission for the planned 11-by-four-metre swimming pool.

He eventually won permission to build an outdoor swimming pool at his Grade II-listed Brightwell Manor, which he shares with wife Carrie and their children.
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Elon Musk has been criticised for his handling of disinformation on Twitter / X as he clashes with Keir Starmer over far-right riots which have gripped parts of the UK.

The US businessman, who bought the social media platform in 2022, launched a tirade of posts in which he mocked and criticised the UK prime minister. Following a statement from the Labour leader criticising the attacks on Muslim communities, Musk questioned why all communities should not be protected.

He later reposted this comment, alongside several memes which depict the UKs criminal justice system as racially biased, as well as calling the Labour leader #twotierkeir. This echoes a far-right talking point which alleges that policing in the UK is more severe towards right-wing people.

Violence has erupted across England and in Northern Ireland (Owen Humphreys/PA) ( PA Wire )

It comes as critics say Musk has allowed disinformation to spread on Twitter since his takeover of the platform. During his tenure, he has let go of around 6,000 staff, or 80 per cent of the workforce, including the entire moderation team. He has also allowed previously banned users like Donald Trump, Andrew Tate, and Tommy Robinson.

On Sunday, Musk replied to a video of rioting in the UK originally posted by Robinson. Analysts say this boosted the right-wing organisers reach, with Musks reply now reaching 9.2 million views.

Addressing the role of social media during the riots, technology secretary Peter Kyle said: I have been clear it is unacceptable that people are using social media to cause damage, distress and destruction in our communities.

Today I had useful meetings 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. There is a significant amount of content circulating that platforms need to be dealing with at pace.

Former PM Rishi Sunak chats to Elon Musk in 2023 ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Encrypted messaging service Telegram has moved to remove channels organising far-right riots after it was thought many people organised anonymously on the platform for events last week.

A spokesperson for the Russian-owned tech firm said: Telegrams terms of service explicitly forbid calls to violence. Moderators use a combination of proactive monitoring of public parts of the platform and user reports in order to remove content that breaches our terms of service.

Musks social media activity shows that he is less willing to engage with calls for moderation. With tensions rising between the billionaire and the prime minister, many are wondering what the future of Twitter / X could be in Britain.

Could Twitter / X be banned in the UK?

There is currently limited legislation to tackle online disinformation in the UK, but Ofcom says this is changing. Following the riots, the telecoms watchdog has confirmed that new laws are set to come into force later this year.

They follow the passing of the Online Safety Act (OSA) in 2023, which changes the way social media is regulated in the UK. It will soon put new duties on tech firms to protect their users from illegal content, ranging from inciting violence to some instances of disinformation.

Certain acts that are illegal in real-life remain so online. It is a crime to harass or threaten someone on social media, for instance. But the onus here is on the user, not the platform on which they are operating. Furthermore, the law only covers misinformation that is defamatory, offensive or intended to cause distress. If it doesnt fall into these categories, it is likely to go unpunished and often unchallenged.

When the new duties come into force, tech firms operating in the UK will be given three months to assess illegal content on their platforms. After this, they will be required to take steps to stop it from appearing.

Let that sink in, Musk tweeted after announcing his takeover of Twitter in 2022 ( Getty Images )

Ofcom says they will have a number of powers to enforce this. Firstly, they can impose fines on tech firms of up to 18 million or 10 percent of their qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is greater.

Criminal action could even be taken against senior managers who fail to follow information requests from Ofcom. And, in extreme cases, Ofcom can require internet service providers to stop working with companies, effectively banning them from operating in the UK.

The new duties on tech firms were subject to a consultation from February this year, and are expected to be in effect from around the end of this year, Ofcom says.

The OSA also compelled the watchdog to launch a misinformation committee, which it is yet to do. Experts have also raised concerns that the scope to challenge disinformation included in the act could prove too limited.

Azzurra Moores, Policy Manager at Full Fact said: Unrest across the UK shows that the internet companies must react faster and more comprehensively to stop the spread of misinformation on their platforms before it can cause devastating, real-world harm.

"But the Government must also examine how it can support the sector to build better defences to bad information. Ten months on from becoming law, we urgently need to see Ofcom's advisory committee on misinformation established and empowered to reflect the reality that misinformation is a frontline threat to community safety that can ruin lives.

"In its current form with just two explicit mentions of misinformation, the Online Safety Act barely scratches the surface of online misinformation and should be amended to properly tackle the threats posed to our society."

Musk has made clear he wants X to become an everything platform ( Getty Images )

Which countries have banned X?

While it would be an unprecedented step in the West for the UK to ban Twitter, it has been in other places across the world. It is currently blocked in China, Russia, North Korea, Turkmenistan, Myanmar, Iran, and Pakistan.

Of these, only in Pakistan has the service been blocked since Musk took over in 2022. This came shortly before the countrys election in February 2024, in a move widely criticised by democracy campaigners.

Closer to the UK, the site has run into trouble with French authorities more than once. This first happened in 2013, when Twitter bosses were ordered by a judge to reveal the identity of a user who had been posting anti-semitic tweets, threatening the company with hefty fines for not doing so.

Last year, trouble came again as French ministers criticised the platforms lax approach to misinformation following its withdrawal from a voluntary EU code of practice on the issue.

Speaking in March 2023, former French digital minister Jean-Noel Barrot said: Disinformation is one of the gravest threats weighing on our democracies.

Twitter, if it repeatedly doesnt follow our rules, will be banned from the EU, he added.

This threat has yet to materialise, but the app was banned from French government employees phones alongside TikTok in the same month.

The app is also partially blocked in India, South Korea, and Tanzania.
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Nearly 200 homeless people in London have been arrested in the past two years under a Georgian-era act that criminalises rough sleeping, new figures show.

The 1824 Vagrancy Act, which was originally introduced to combat the increased number of rough sleepers following the Napoleonic wars, has been criticised by campaigners for punishing homeless people and pushing them away from help.

Parliament voted to repeal the act in April 2022 but this has been delayed until the government brings in replacement legislation. The Tories tried to bring forward a new version of the bill that came under fire from MPs across parliament.

Under proposals put forward by then-home secretary Suella Braverman, police in England and Wales would have been given powers to fine or move on rough sleepers deemed to be causing a nuisance.

The bill was not passed ahead of the general election, meaning the Vagrancy Act is still in use. New data from the Metropolitan Police shows 175 homeless people - 148 men and 27 women - have been arrested under the Vagrancy Act in London from April 2022 to June 2024.

Homelessness is on the rise in London, with Westminster seeing a particularly high number of rough sleepers ( PA )

The number of people rough sleeping in London has been increasing in the past year, with 4,223 people recorded as sleeping on the streets from April to June 2024. This was up 29 per cent on the same period last year.

New rough sleepers accounted for 46 per cent of this number, with those recorded as consistently living on the street also increasing.

Green Party London Assembly Member Zoe Garbett, who received the figures from the Met, said: Homelessness should not be a crime. The overwhelmingly disproportionate use of this old law to criminalise people sleeping rough on our streets is a policy failure, a policing failure, and most definitely a housing failure.

If we are serious about getting our unhoused neighbours off the street and into safe, stable housing, we must acknowledge these failures and invest more into solutions at the root of the problem. I will continue to push the mayor to direct more funding for buying existing houses and putting them in the council housing supply.

The number of people recorded as rough sleeping has increased by 29 per cent in London year on year ( PA )

Labour pledged to introduce a cross-government strategy, working with mayors and councils across the country, to end homelessness in their manifesto.

Matt Downie, chief executive of homeless charity Crisis, said: After 200 long years, it really is time to repeal the Vagrancy Act. Fining and imprisoning people forced to sleep rough is cruel and counterproductive. It undermines efforts to resolve the causes of homelessness and pushes people further away from help and support.

To help the record numbers of people sleeping on Londons streets, we also need the new UK government to focus on solutions that provide compassion and support. That means building on its promising pledges by creating a unit for ending homelessness, backed by the prime minister, and delivering a new generation of social and affordable homes.

A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said Sadiq Khan was doing everything in his power to help people off the streets and into more secure accommodation.

They said he had quadrupled the rough sleeping budget since 2016, adding: Sadiq supports a change in legislation that puts an end to the unfair criminalisation of people who find themselves sleeping rough. He will work hand-in-hand with the new government to increase the delivery of services and support to end rough sleeping in the capital by 2030  helping to build a better, fairer London for all.

A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: We are committed to tackling the issues that cause people to become homeless and will work with mayors and councils to develop a new cross-government strategy to put Britain back on track to ending homelessness.

This will include consideration of any relevant legislation.
Elon Musk has managed to insert himself into the headlines, and into the targets of Keir Starmer and his government in the last week. The entrepreneur and owner of social media platform X/Twitter has taken potshots at Starmer and his government, claiming that the UK is in the midst of a civil war.

Musk has posted more than a dozen broadsides aimed at the prime minister and his government over their response to the Southport riots. In so doing, hes raised the ire of ministers, who have suggested that anyone who is whipping up violence online will face the full force of the law  which presumably would include Musk.

As the man himself put it on X, its been a busy week.

Musk isnt shy about courting attention. But his comments in the last week have raised the hackles of UK politicians and commentators, who are calling for authorities to take action against him.

In many ways, Musks public proclamations  made to his more than 193 million followers on X, the platform that he spent $44bn buying in October 2022, and which has subsequently halved in value  are not unusual.

Musk is a culture warrior and a limelight hog. Hes also always eager to prod and poke at authority, and to push the limits of decency. As Musk told his biographer, Walter Isaacson, Ive got a bad habit of biting off more than I can chew.

The fights Musk picks tend to be against world leaders, with whom he appears to think he is on a similar footing. Its not something hes particularly wary of doing, based on historical precedent.

Musk has previously sought to play chicken with regulators around the world for a variety of different reasons. He continually needles US financial regulators, including the Securities and Exchange Commission, which sued Musk for market manipulation in 2018 after he sent a jokey tweet suggesting he would take his electric car company, Tesla, private. In 2022, he called them b*****ds at a conference.

With X, Musk has insulted and argued with Thierry Breton, who oversees the EUs internal market commissioner, since his ownership of the platform was finalised nearly two years ago. He most recently arguably flouted European data protection laws by automatically opting X users into sharing their data with his AI chatbot, Grok.

And earlier this year he fought with Australias eSafety commissioner over that countrys Online Safety Act, when the government there sought to get X to take down violent footage of a knife attack at a church in the country.

A mob attacks a Holiday Inn Express housing asylum seekers in Rotherham ( PA )

Musk used his platform to rail against the commissioner, tweeting, Should the eSafety commissar (an unelected official) in Australia have authority over all countries on Earth?.

The pattern will be recognisable to Starmer, who is facing many of the same broadsides for his attempts to bring Musk to heel because of his divisive comments.

But can anything be done to tame Musk and the platform he treats as his personal fiefdom?

The government will have to make some tough policy choices in deciding how to enforce applicable laws, says Catalina Goanta, associate professor in law at the University of Utrecht. Hundreds of rioters have been arrested for engaging in violent crimes, with many more yet to be identified.

England and Wales have long had very broad criminal offences that make it illegal to say something online that would often be legal offline, says Michael Veale, associate professor in technology law at University College London. Those communications offences are the tools that law enforcement usually reach for when dealing with specific cases like Musks, prosecuting thousands a year.

Musk is a culture warrior and a limelight hog. Hes also always eager to prod and poke at authority, and to push the limits of decency

And some of those rules have been bolstered by the new Online Safety Act, which was passed into law in the last few months. But theres a catch. Even in the new act, these do not extend outside of the jurisdiction, meaning it would be hard to see how they could be used to target Musk, says Veale.

Because Musks X is based in the United States, and Musk was born in South Africa and became a US citizen in 2002, hes not subject to the act.

Besides that, Musk has carefully crafted what hes said to divide people, but to not fall foul of the Online Safety Act. The act was watered down during its passage through parliament to rule out harmful but legal speech from being regulated. This means that sending threats of violence, like I will wage civil war is illegal, but saying  as Musk has done  that civil war is inevitable is not.

Although he has been posting increasingly unhinged comments on his platform, it might be difficult to interpret them as incitement to violence, says Goanta.

Another issue that will stymie any attempt to punish Musk is that while the Online Safety Act has become law, with Ofcom tasked with enforcing it, is being staggered into operation.

Far-right rioters clash with police in Manchester on Saturday ( EPA )

Ofcom did not immediately respond to a request, but has told technology publication UKTN this week that it will take until 2026 for all the elements of the acts enforcement to be complete. The regulators spokesperson also told UKTN that it would have to consult codes of practice and guidance before sanctioning social media companies for hosting dangerous content.

They also were clear that this will not involve us making decisions about individual posts or accounts.

It puts the UK government, and its chosen regulator, in a sticky situation. As the rest of the act is not designed to respond to particular pieces of content, and much of it has not been commenced yet, police would have to get very creative with other offences, says Veale.

One of those routes could be the Communications Act of 2003, which regulates communication offences, says Lilian Edwards, professor of law at Newcastle University. Prosecuting people abroad is a judgement call, she says. It has impacts: if they arrived in the UK at any point they could be seized and similarly any assets in the UK.

Taking down X has been one idea mooted by some, but could potentially backfire, says Goanta. Social media has definitely played an important role in disseminating information about the riots, such as conspiracy theories, but it also may serve an evidence-seeking purpose for the arrests, she explains. All platforms that facilitate illegal content  not just X, but also Telegram or TikTok, where a lot of lives were monetised during the riots  should be scrutinised for their content moderation activities.
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Prince Williams ex-girlfriend unwittingly revealed his relationship with Kate Middleton during a fateful game of Never Have I Ever with friends, a new biography has revealed.

The now heir to the throne, 42, met his future wife while studying at St Andrews University in Scotland and the pair started out as friends.

However, over time, romance blossomed and it was initially shrouded in secrecy because of Williams position within the royal family.

But the cat was let out of the bag when Williams former flame, Carly Massy-Birch participated in a game of Never Have I Ever.

Popular with students, it involves participants questioning the group to discover if they have done something, and if they have, they typically take a drink.

Royal author Rob Jobson explained that the revealing moment occurred during a dinner party with friends attended by Carly Massy-Birch who was one of the princes ex-girlfriends.

Perhaps unwittingly, Carly exposed Williams secret love affair with Catherine, much to the princes chagrin, Jobson wrote.

When it was Massy-Birchs turn, She announced, Ive never dated two people in this room, knowing full well that William was the only one who had because Kate was sitting next to him, a party guest revealed in a separate report.

The guest added that everyone was in shock by Massy-Birchs move and that Prince William shot a thunderous look at her and whispered under his breath, I cant believe you just said that.

We knew they were together, but it was the first time William confirmed his and Kates relationship in public, the source said

Massy-Birch dated William for less than two months shortly after he arrived at St Andrews.

Prince Williams ex unwittingly revealed his relationship with Kate Middleton. ( Getty Images )

But this was far from the only interesting revelation made in Jobsons new biography of the Princess of Wales.

Jobson also recounted how William called time with his initial romance with Kate, now 42, over the phone, believing that he was too young to settle down.

Jobson wrote of the April 2007 split when William was 25: [He] told her they both needed a bit of space to find our own way, and he was unable to promise her marriage.

In an emotionally charged 30-minute conversation, they both acknowledged they were on different pages. It was a devastating blow to Catherine, who felt doubly let down at being dumped over the phone.

William, of course, simply got drunk at Mahiki and started yelling about being free.

However, it was not long before William won his long-term girlfriend back  and this was reportedly the result of Kates decision to let her hair down too.

On Catherines return, she decided she wasnt going to sit around moping; what was good for the goose was good for the gander, Jobson explained.

She turned to old friends for support, going on holiday with a girlfriend to Ibiza. They partied long into the night.

William and Kate were married in 2011. ( AP )

The former couples paths then crossed again in June of 2007 at a mutual friends fancy dress party, where Kate impressed William in a nurses outfit.

[Kate] arrived dressed as a nurse and William had made a beeline for her, Jobson explained.

They then spent the first part of the evening deep in conversation before hitting the dance floor, where they ended up kissing.

Upon their reunion, William informally promised to marry Kate and finally proposed during a trip to Kenya in 2010.
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Water regulator Ofwat has proposed 168m of combined fines on three of Englands biggest water companies for failing to manage their wastewater treatment works.

Thames Water faces a 104 million fine, Yorkshire Water could see a 47 million penalty and Northumbrian Water faces 17 million following the first batch of results from Ofwats biggest-ever investigation into industry performance.

The penalties relate to water firms management of their wastewater treatment and sewer systems, which have come under heavy criticism for releasing too much pollution into rivers.

Campaigners have welcomed the potential fines but warned the penalties highlight the sheer state of disrepair of the industry.

Ofwat said the burden of the fines on three water firms will fall on investors, rather than customers ( Alamy/PA )

It comes amid high levels of public fury over the polluted state of Englands rivers, lakes and coastal waters and at a lack of investment in water infrastructure, rising bills, high dividends and executive pay and bonuses at privatised water firms.

The three interactive maps below show where the sewer network discharges treated sewage, overflows of untreated sewage and storm water into rivers.

The discharges and overflows are included in the areas covered by each water company: Thames Water, Yorkshire Water and Northumbrian Water.

Ofwat said 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.

A fine could be especially impactful for Thames, which is in the grip of a funding crisis and has more than 15 billion in debt. It said last month that it only has enough money to continue trading until the end of May 2025.

Thame Waters fine amounts to 9% of the companys turnover, just shy of the 10% maximum Ofwat is allowed to impose.

A Thames Water spokesman said untreated sewage spills are unacceptable, even when they are permitted, adding the firm was working on improving its record.

It suggested the firm is hoping Ofwat may reduce the financial penalty if Thames Water commits to redress the failures, adding that the company will respond to the proposed fine in due course.

Yorkshire Waters wastewater treatment works were in better shape, with just 16% of them having operational issues. But 45% of its storm overflows were in breach.

A Yorkshire Water spokesperson said the firm is disappointed with the proposed fine and that it had co-operated fully with Ofwat.

And 3% of Northumbrian Waters wastewater works had issues, while 9% of its storm overflows were in breach.

A Northumbrian Water spokesperson said they are very disappointed with the fines, adding that the firm is working really hard to continue to deliver for customers and the environment.

Ofwat said there was a strong correlation between high spill levels and operational issues at Thames, Yorkshire and Northumbrians wastewater treatment sites, which points to these companies not having properly operated and maintained their wastewater treatment works.

The regulator said it would consult on the fines first, and may potentially reach a settlement before the companies are ordered to pay.

Environment secretary Steve Reed said: 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 added the government plans to fundamentally reform the water sector via a new bill announced last month.
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The remaining injured children treated at Alder Hey Hospital following the stabbings in Southport have all now been discharged.

Three young girls died last Monday after the knife attack which left ten more people  eight of whom were children  injured.

Alder Hey Childrens Hospital, in Liverpool, confirmed all children in its care who attended the Taylor Swift-themed dance class had now been discharged.

In a statement on its website, the hospital said: We are really pleased to be able to share that all the children involved in last Mondays awful incident in Southport who were under our care have now been safely discharged home from Alder Hey.

Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, and Bebe King, six, died during the attack in a studio on Hart Street ( PA )

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved in responding to the incident or caring for anyone affected by it, especially our colleagues in the NHS, Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service. We also want to say thank you to all who sent well wishes to Alder Hey and to the families affected.

Our heartfelt sympathies remain with all those impacted by last weeks tragic events.

Five of the eight children who suffered stab wounds were in a critical condition last week along with the two adults who suffered stab injuries at the scene, according to Merseyside Police.

Up until yesterday, one child was still being treated for their injuries at the Alder Hey Hospital.

Merseyside Police confirmed one child was still in hospital at a different Merseyside location.

Leanne Lucas, 35, was also wounded during the attack ( Supplied )

Mourners gathered to pay tribute to one of the girls in a memorial service at St Patricks Church on Tuesday afternoon.

One speaker, who spoke on behalf of Alice da Silva Aguiars family, fought back tears as she said: Alice, you are the most beautiful, strongest girl in the world and I hope you know we love you from the bottom of our hearts. Keep smiling and dancing with the girls.

She read out another message from the family, which said: We love you Alice, Your smile is extremely contagious and full of joy. You never fail to uplift everyones mood.

One of Alices classmates said: You will be in our hearts forever. You are the most kindest person in the world, and we know that you are the strongest girl we have ever met.

A member of staff from Alices school read out messages from her classmates, including one which said: Alice, so kind and caring, with a smile so bright, forever in our hearts.

The stabbings have triggered riots in UK cities, initially fuelled by misinformation around the suspects identity.

Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, 17, was charged with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder.

He is due to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on 25 October for a pre-trial preparation hearing.
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Large-scale expected violence by far-right groups failed to materialise after thousands of counter-protesters turned out to stand against them.

Huge chants of we fight back and refugees are welcome here were heard on the streets of several major cities in England, outnumbering any thugs intent on causing trouble.

It comes after police warned more than 100 demonstrations could take place across the UK on Wednesday for another evening of unrest after a week of riots in places including Sunderland, Hartlepool, Liverpool and Rotherham.

Some 6,000 riot officers were standing by after gatherings had been anticipated in 41 of the 43 police force areas in England and Wales, with prosecutors warning a hit list of immigration centres and lawyers by the far right could amount to terrorism.

Counter-protesters assemble in Walthamstow, northeast London, chanting refugees welcome here ( Getty )

Police from southeast England were sent to northern cities on Wednesday to back up resources in northern cities after intelligence suggested further violent scenes were planned.

But on Wednesday night, the far right was barely seen in areas such as east London, Bristol, Oxford, Middlesbrough and Brighton.

Several hundred demonstrators holding anti-racism banners marched peacefully through the streets in Birmingham. It was estimated more than 1,500 counter-demonstrators turned out in Bristol.

Counter-protesters gather in Walthamstow, northeast London, as far-right rallies failed to materialise ( Getty Images )

Aldershot, Hampshire, was one of the few places where police officers rushed to separate opposing groups after tempers flared.

A group chanting stop the boats confronted a Stand Up to Racism group and angry shouting occurred.

In Sheffield, South Yorkshire, around 500 anti-racist demonstrators gathered and chanted pro-refugee slogans, but there was no sign of any far-right groups. Scores of police were in the area with riot helmets hanging from their belts.

Activists pictured in Liverpool ( Getty )

Anti-racist demonstrators outside Merseyside Refugee Centre ( Getty )

Police in Northampton asked counter-protesters to leave after planned anti-immigration protests in the town failed to materialise.

However, there was some isolated disorder in Croydon, south London. The Metropolitan Police said about 50 people had made clear their intention is to cause disruption and fuel disorder.

The force said people had dragged and thrown objects down the road, and thrown bottles at officers. Eight people were arrested for assaulting emergency workers, possession of offensive weapons and other offences.

Forces across the UK have started issuing CCTV appeals to identify people in connection with the widespread unrest over the past week.

Anti-immigration protest in Derby, Derbyshire ( Reuters )

Counter protesters outside the Refugee and Migrant centre in Birmingham, West Midlands ( PA Wire )

Images of more than 50 people were released by detectives investigating trouble in Merseyside, Rotherham and Hull.

More than 400 people have been arrested with some already sentenced to heavy jail terms.

The fatal stabbings of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in Southport last week were initially used by far-right groups to launch riot action.
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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.
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Medics have called for a ban on a popular material used to make kitchen worktops.

It comes after a rise in an incurable disease linked to the manufacture with one leading medic calling for urgent action to protect workers who cut artificial stone.

Kitchen worktops made from artificial stone are cheaper than natural stone  such as granite or marble  but they contain significantly more silica.

And stonemasons who cut this material could be breathing in high concentrations of silica dust, which could potentially lead to them developing a potentially fatal lung condition called silicosis.

The first UK case of silicosis linked to the cutting of artificial stone  which is made from crushed rocks bound together with resins and pigments  was identified last year and medics have seen a rise in cases since.

Experts have documented the first eight cases in the UK in a new paper.

I think there needs to be an urgent focus on this disease, Dr Jo Feary, lead author of the paper, told the PA news agency.

The consultant in occupational lung diseases at the Royal Brompton Hospital added: Whats really striking is it is affecting young people, in their 20s and 30s, and theres no treatment for it.

If they didnt do their job, they wouldnt have a disease, and it should be preventable. So we need urgent action.

Academics have called for a ban on kitchen worktops made from artificial stone to be considered (Alamy/PA)

Dr Feary, who also works as a senior clinical research fellow at Imperial College London, told PA: Weve known about the problems associated with artificial stone silicosis from colleagues from around the world for the last few years, but we had not seen any confirmed cases in the UK until the middle of last year when they started arriving in my clinic.

She expects many more cases in the future, but added: I dont know how many people in the UK work with engineered stone, and so I dont know how many people are at risk of breathing in the dust and developing the disease.

Artificial stone, or engineered stone, has been around for a few decades, but I think its increasingly dominating the market for kitchen worktops.

One of the things about artificial stone is its easier to work with, ie, its easier to cut and shape and polish the natural stone.

And therefore, my suspicion is its done with poorer control of exposure to dust than it would be if you were using natural stones  so potentially, with less training, with less sophisticated equipment.

She added: We need to invest time in understanding how many people are exposed, if its possible to use it safely and decisions made about how were going to tackle it in the UK  there may be different ways of doing that, a ban is one option, but there are other options as well.

Engineered stone has been banned in Australia after a rise in cases of silicosis.

The condition occurs when silica dust is inhaled, causing inflammation in the lungs.

This gradually leads to hardened and scarred lung tissue which means the lung cannot function properly.

This can lead to a persistent shortness of breath, weakness and tiredness and an ongoing cough.

People with the condition may eventually find simple activities  such as walking or climbing stairs  very difficult and may be largely confined to their bed or be housebound.

It has no known cure  though some with the condition have received lung transplants  prompting researchers to say that prevention of the disease in the first place is critical.

Writing in the journal Thorax, Dr Feary and colleagues documented the first cases of the disease in the UK.

All were among men with an average age of 34.

Some had worked cutting artificial stone for just four years before they were diagnosed with silicosis.

All cases were dry cutting and polishing artificial stone worktops with inadequate safety measures, they wrote.

UK cases are likely to increase, with urgent action needed to identify cases and enforce regulations.

The team called for action to protect workers, including for the Government to consider following in Australias footsteps by banning artificial stone.

The cases we present illustrate the failure of the employer to take responsibility for exposure control in their workplaces. National guidelines are urgently needed, as well as work to enumerate the at-risk population and identify cases early, the authors wrote.

A UK ban on AS (as introduced in Australia in 2024) must be considered.

Researchers have confirmed that one of the eight patients has since died.

In a linked editorial, Dr Christopher Barber, of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, said that cases are expected to pose a significant challenge to doctors.

On a potential ban, he said that a change in the law in the 1920s was successful in protecting the Sheffield cutlery workers which led to the industry switching to silica-free grinding wheels.

Meanwhile, an additional study, led by Dr Patrick Howlett, MRC clinical research fellow at Imperial College London, suggests that limiting a persons exposure to silica dust could help.

He said: This research supports the reduction of permissible exposure limits over an eight-hour working shift.

Although lowering exposure limits across different settings is challenging, it has been shown to be achievable.

We strongly believe it is important to reduce the number of silicosis cases, given the severity of the disease.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) spokesperson said: Our sympathies are with those who have lost loved ones to any work-related disease.

Great Britain has a robust and well-established regulatory framework in place to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances.

We continue to work with industry to raise awareness of managing the risks of exposure to respirable crystalline silica and we are considering options for future interventions to ensure workers are protected.
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Calls for electoral reform have increased following the results of last months election.

Reform UK claims the first-past-the-post system is broken and the Liberal Democrats have long argued lack of proportional representation robs millions of voters of their voice.

We were inundated when we asked readers to submit their burning questions on electoral reform and proportional representation.

Its clear that whatever happens, there is a renewed debate about electoral reform and that is to be welcomed.

Here are seven questions from Independent readers  and my answers from the Ask Me Anything event.

Q: Will proportional representation make any difference to ordinary peoples lives, and how?

captaintripps

A: Its fair to say government policies on the economy and public services have much more impact on peoples daily lives than the system we use to elect the government. But I believe the health of our democracy matters. The recent election was the most disproportionate in UK history. Its hard to justify a party winning almost two-thirds of the seats with a third of the votes.

Q: Should England also have its own devolved English Parliament like Scotland and Wales?

Independent England

A: Im not sold on the idea of an English Parliament. The English question is real, but I think its being answered by the creation of directly elected mayors. Labour wants to extend them to other areas. If the mayors can work with the government in helping to secure economic growth  rather than argue with ministers about money  their status will be enhanced.

In the long run, I quite like Labours idea of making the House of Lords more representative of the regions and nations. That would also address the English question. Whether major Lords reform ever happens is another matter. Perhaps its on Labours list for its third five-year term, which might never arrive!

Q: Has any research been done which shows how voters may cast their votes differently under PR?

alfafile

A: Im not aware of any such research. There would probably be less tactical voting under a PR system. First-past-the-post arguably allows people to express an opinion about one party and it might be a negative one. PR allows more choice and preferences.

One interpretation of last months election is that it was an anti-Conservative vote, but I think it was also an anti-political establishment vote even though Labour won a huge majority. Labour and the Tories won only 58 per cent of the total votes between them, their lowest combined share ever.

I believe PR would boost turnout by tackling the wasted vote problem. Last month, 58 per cent of people backed a candidate who did not win; the average in elections since 1945 is 47 per cent. So only 42 per cent of people are now represented by an MP of their choice. Its higher with PR - for example, 90 per cent in Germany and 92 per cent in Denmark.

Q: Given that the collapse of the Weimar Republic and the French 4th republic are generally reckoned to be as a result of their having PR, whilst the Greeks give a bonus 50 MPs to the party that gets the most seats, its clear that there are reasons to be sceptical. PR is no panacea. Do you have any solutions to those issues?

Enders Shadow

A: PR is not a panacea, but I think it would be an improvement on first-past-the-post (FPTP). From memory, about 40 of the 43 European countries use PR in some form and theres some polling evidence of higher public satisfaction with democracy there than in nations like the UK and France which do not use it.

I think the argument that FPTP brings stable government has been tested to destruction in the UK in recent years. Supporters of electoral reform point to a study showing that countries using PR outperform those without it on eight out of 10 measures of political stability such as completing a term of office and the turnover of ministers. Weve certainly had a high turnover in the UK in recent years!

Q: Does a move to PR actually require a referendum to enact (as in 2011) or can it be implemented by Parliament alone through legislation?

TheMadGeologist

A: Its true that the approach of Labour and the Conservatives towards PR is governed by self-interest (though you could say the same about the smaller parties who support PR). There is growing support inside Labour for PR. Its party conference voted for it in 2022. About a third of Labour MPs backed it in the last parliament and that proportion has now grown.

But but but to be realistic, its going to be hard to persuade the Labour leadership to back this change after the party has just won a majority of 174. A small number of Conservatives support PR but many fear it would lock their party out of power by ensuring a permanent Lab-Lib Dem coalition.

The best chance of PR going to the top of Labours or the Tories agenda is in a hung parliament, when it would be a key demand of the Lib Dems. Thats how we got the 2011 referendum, as part of the Lib-Con coalition deal.

As for DHondt, the formula which translates votes on the regional list into seats in the Scottish Parliament, Im afraid I will need to consult the professor  John Curtice, professor of politics at Strathclyde University.

In theory, a party could claim a mandate for changing the voting system if it had been explicit about it in its manifesto. The House of Lords would not block the legislation in these circumstances. In practice, I think any party would feel honour bound to hold a referendum on such a big constitutional change.

Q: Will the regional assemblies Labour are proposing become the secondary democratic institutions that allow for the House of Lords to be abolished and PR introduced in the commons?

Tabbers

A: I dont think Labour is committed to regional assemblies. The Blair government held a referendum on setting up one in the North East in 2004 but the idea was overwhelmingly rejected. The Starmer governments focus is on the directly elected mayors.

Some Labour figures favour a directly elected House of Lords, with representatives from the regions and nations. But would the Commons ever agree to set up a rival chamber with its own mandate? I rather doubt it.

Q: What PR system is best? MMP (NZ, Germany) or STV?

Russell Simpson

A: The Electoral Reform Society regards STV as the gold standard on the grounds it provides maximum choice. I prefer mixed member PR, known as the additional member system (AMS) in the Scottish and Welsh parliaments because it preserves a link between voters and a local constituency MP while securing a proportional result through a top-up from a regional party list.

Ive met ministers from other countries who are amazed that British ministers have constituencies and hold regular surgeries for their residents. A lot of voters think our politicians are out of touch, but this contact provides a vital link between them and the real world.

These questions and answers were part of an Ask Me Anything hosted by Andrew Grice at 12pm BST on Friday 2 August. Some of the questions and answers have been edited for this article. You can read the full discussion in the comments section of the original article.

If you want more political comment, news and insight, sign up for John Rentouls weekly Commons Confidential newsletter exclusive to Independent Premium subscribers, taking you behind the curtain of Westminster. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, head here to find out more.
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Sadiq Khan has warned members of the far-right targeting London they will feel the full force of the law.

The Labour mayor has also asked Londoners to check on their friends and neighbours as the capital braces for violence.

Show them that care and compassion is what Londoners are all about, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"In London, we have zero-tolerance for racism, Islamophobia, antisemitism or any form of hate and we pride ourselves on being open, diverse and welcoming of all faiths and backgrounds. Its woven deeply into the fabric of our great city and is why those who seek to divide our communities will never win."

Riot police hold back protesters near a burning police vehicle after disorder broke out in Southport last week ( Getty )

Thousands of police officers are preparing for more appalling scenes on the UKs streets after dozens of immigration centres across the country were named as targets on a far-right hit list.

A list of as many as 39 immigration law specialists offices, asylum support charities and immigration services have been named alongside their addresses on posts widely circulated on social media in recent days.

The messages sit alongside flame emojis and calls to mask up.

Earlier this week, Keir Starmer announced a standing army of 6,000 specialist police officers to quell the ongoing violence after more than a week of unrest across England and Northern Ireland.

London mayor Sadiq Khan ( BBC )

Mr Khan said he was in contact with police over the situation. He said described the disorder, racism and violence seen in recent days as truly shocking.

He said he was aware of reports that far-right groups are now planning to target locations in London and said his message to them was if you break the law, action will be taken against you.

"Acts of violence and disorder on the streets of London will not be tolerated and, if you commit a crime, you will be arrested and face the full force of the law, he added.

Issuing his call to Londoners to check on their friends and neighbours he said that he was aware the recent shocking scenes have left many Muslims and minority ethnic communities scared and fearful.

Violence flared around 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.
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Sir Keir Starmer has been warned that tinkering with Britains EU deal will not rescue the economy and bring about the increase in growth or productivity his government has aimed to achieve.

The warning from the independent all-party pressure group European Movement has come with a shopping list of things the new Labour government needs to achieve in order to restore confidence in Britain as a safe place to invest.

It follows a devastating report by economic think tank the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) which showed that Brexit uncertainty has harmed external investment in the UK, damaged productivity  particularly in regions like the Midlands which voted for Leave  and held the UK back from recovering from the pandemic compared to other Western countries.

Responding to the report, Richard Kilpatrick, campaign manager of the European Movement UK said: To grow the economy and invest in our public sector, to build the hospitals and schools that our communities need, we need to accept that Brexit has failed to deliver in every area.

Starmer has disappointed many by saying there will be no attempt to rejoin the EU or its single market and customs union ( PA )

The European Movement welcomes the work of NIESR, which confirms that our hard separation from the EU is now seriously holding our country back. We deserve better.

He warned: Tinkering around the edges of a broken Brexit deal wont deliver the long-term certainty that our economy needs. We urge the prime minister to agree to our call for an independent, forward-looking inquiry into the ongoing costs of Brexit on our economy, and what the future for the UK would be with membership of the single market and customs union on the table.

The intervention comes as the government has already prepared the way for a renegotiation of Boris Johnsons flawed Brexit deal with the EU.

The talks are being spearheaded by European affairs minister Nick Thomas-Symonds. He began his work at the Nato conference in Washington DC in the first week of the Labour government and then played a major role in the European Political Community (EPC) summit the following week at Blenheim Palace.

Cabinet office minister Nick Thomas-Symonds is spearheading talks on renegotiating Boris Johnsons Brexit deal ( PA )

Sir Keir has disappointed many by saying there will be no attempt to rejoin the EU or its single market and customs union  even though the entry of any of those things would ease trade with the UKs biggest trading partner and restore credibility in the UK as a place to invest.

But the European Movement, which includes experts in several fields, has already laid out ideas for what the government needs to do to restore Britains credibility economically. This includes:

Rejoining the Galileo space programme; the 24 European Reference Networks for rare diseases; the single market for medicines (EMA); Euratom (for atomic energy); the international nuclear fusion research and engineering megaproject (ITER); and the Erasmus programme for students

Agreeing mutual recognition of qualifications

Getting data adequacy agreements

Agreeing mobility for musicians and artists, scientists, specialist professions and under-35s

Getting a mutual veterinary agreement to allow for the free movement of animals

Rejoining the Frontex border agreement

Police cooperation improvement

Securing a clinical trials framework for medicines

Summarising the need for changes in the report this week, Stephen Millard, deputy director for macroeconomic modelling and forecasting at NIESR, said: If the renegotiation goes in the direction of making it easier to trade compared to where we are now  if the renegotiation manages to achieve that, then that will be a positive for sure.

By opening up trade more that does lead to productivity growth, it also again if we are trading more with the EU it makes us a better  more attractive  place for direct foreign investment, it makes the UK a more attractive place for business globally because we have those opportunities to trade.

That has been the really bad thing about Brexit, is that it has reduced the opportunities of businesses to grow by trade and be more productive.

So if there is one thing the government could do that would have a serious impact on growth then trying to bring us closer to Europe would be a definite winner in my view.
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The wife of a Tory councillor has been arrested for hate crimes after she called for hotels with asylum seekers in them to be set ablaze.

Lucy Connolly, 41, took to X (formerly Twitter) writing: Mass deportation now, set fire to all the f***ing hotels full of the b******* for all I care... If that makes me racist, so be it.

She has since deleted the tweet and apologised, claiming she had acted on false and malicious information. But a number of people made complaints to the police about her allegedly inciting violence.

Northamptonshire Police confirmed on Tuesday night that a 41-year-old woman had been arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred and remains in custody.

Lucy Connolly has been arrested over a Twitter post ( social media )

The childminder posted the comments on her X account just hours after the fatal stabbing of three schoolgirls at a dance class in Southport on 29 July.

At the time a number of false claims and misinformation was being posted on the social media site from far-right groups which led to a riot in the seaside resort.

Among the false claims was that the murder suspect, Axel Rudakubana, was a Muslim immigrant.

The full post read: Mass deportation now, set fire to all the f***ing hotels full of the bastards for all I care, while youre at it take the treacherous government and politicians with them.

Referring to the families of the girls in Southport, she added: I feel physically sick know what these families now will have to endure. If that makes me racist so be it.

Mrs Connolly is married to Tory Northamptonshire councillor Raymond Connolly, who is vice chairman of the committee on adult social care at West Northamptonshire Council.

He told the BBC his wife made a stupid, spur-of-the-moment tweet out of frustration and quickly deleted it.

Shes a good person and shes not racist, he said.

Shes got Somalian and Bangladeshi kids she looks after and she loves them like theyre her own.

In another post on Tuesday evening, Mrs Connolly said: 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 an invaluable lesson for me in realising how wrong and inaccurate things appearing on social media can be.

It has been reported more than 400 people have been arrested over alleged involvement in the far-right riots.

Police are bracing themselves for more protests on Wednesday targeting immigration centres and asylum lawyers.

A Conservative Party source said Mrs Connolly is not a party member.
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Robert Jenrick has sparked outrage after saying people shouting Allahu Akbar on London streets should be arrested immediately.

Allahu Akbar is an Arabic phrase meaning God is greater or God is greatest which is commonly used in prayer and as a declaration of faith.

Asked whether he believes the UK has a system of two-tier policing, Mr Jenrick told Sky News: I have been very critical of the police in the past, particularly around the attitude of some police forces to the protests that we saw since 7 October.

I thought it was quite wrong that somebody could shout Allahu Akbar on the streets of London and not be immediately arrested. Or project genocidal chants onto Big Ben and that person not be immediately arrested. That attitude is wrong and Ill always call out the police.

In February, pro-Palestine activists projected the phrase From the river to the sea onto parliament during a demonstration, drawing anger from some pro-Israel supporters who argue the disputed phrase calls for the eradication of the state of Israel.

Sharing a video on X of men in balaclavas chanting Allahu Akbar, Mr Jenrick later added: Allahu Akbar is spoken peacefully and spiritually by millions of British Muslims in their daily lives.

But the aggressive chanting below is intimidatory and threatening. And its an offence under section 4 and 5 of the Public Order Act.

Extremists routinely abuse common expressions for their own shameful ends. All violence must end. All violence must be called out.

Mr Jenrick has been accused of stoking tensions rather than easing them as England faces racist rioting ( Getty )

The Muslim Association of Britain strongly condemned Mr Jenricks comments.

This is pure unadulterated Islamophobia from Robert Jenrick and is precisely what has been driving these Islamophobic far-right extremists, a statement said on X. The media and politicians need to be held to account for their role in the terror that has been unleashed on the streets of Britain.

The Muslim Council said the comments showed institutional Islamophobia is alive and well in the Conservative Party.

As a prospective leader, Mr Jenrick should be showing leadership, reassuring our communities when fear is palpable, a spokesperson said. He should apologise, fully retract his comments, and speak to ordinary Muslims to understand why his remarks are so outrageous. Rather than inflaming tensions, he should focus on ways to bring communities together.

Labours Naz Shah was among the MPs demanding the former minister apologise.

Labour MP Naz Shah branded the comments textbook ignorance ( ITV )

Posting on social media, she said: This is complete ignorance and textbook Islamophobia from Robert Jenrick. It literally equates every Muslim in the world with extremism.

Allah Hu Akbar means god is Great. Its a basic Islamic saying that every Muslim in the world says in prayer. It is significantly the opening line of the call to prayer and the opening phrase of every prayer.

Billions of us Muslims use it every day as part of our faith within our prayers. It is a common phrase like Christians would say Jesus Christ as your lord and saviour.

Imagine in this climate, either being that ignorant or deliberately trying to stigmatise all Muslims. He should apologise and speak to Muslim communities and learn more about our faith.

Afzal Khan, Labour MP for Manchester Rusholme, added: Another day, another senior Tory being Islamophobic. Allahu Akbar means God is great - the Muslim equivalent of Hallelujah.

Jenricks confidence in going on national TV to say people should be arrested for saying Allahu Akbar exposes his deep-seated prejudice against Muslims.

Conservative peer Baroness Sayeeda Warsi accused the Tory leadership contender of nasty divisive rhetoric.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has rejected accusations of two-tier policing as a non-issue (James Manning/PA) ( PA Wire )

Every day before we start parliamentary business in the Commons and Lords we say a prayer and praise God  we say our parliamentary version of Allah hu Akbar at the heart of democracy  a process Robert Jenrick is a part of, she said.

Sir Keir Starmer has faced accusations of two-tier policing in the UK, a far-right claim which has been used to justify the disorder that has swept the country over the last week. The accusations suggest police are taking a softer approach with left-wing and Islamic protesters than they are with white working-class protesters.

The prime minister has flatly denied the claims as a non-issue and insisted policing was carried out without fear or favour.

When Mr Jenrick was asked about his previous claim that we have allowed our streets to be dominated by Islamist extremists, a comment he made in February about a government vote on a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, the MP for Newark said: I think I was absolutely right.

There were instances back then when we had Islamist extremists on our streets. Ive just given you one example, where you literally had somebody chanting, or chanting, Allahu Akbar on Oxford Street. We saw people commending the Houthis for firing missiles at British flagged vessels in the seas.

That is completely wrong. That is anti-British, we should be calling it out.
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Half of Britons believe Sir Keir Starmer is handling the riots sweeping the UK badly, a new poll has found.

Some 49 per cent of people said they felt the prime minister is dealing with the disorder poorly, while just 31 per cent of those surveyed said he was managing it well.

The polling, conducted by YouGov on Monday, also saw 43 per cent of respondents say home secretary Yvette Cooper was handling the situation badly, with only 23 per cent saying her response has been good.

Sir Keir Starmer will chair a second Cobra meeting in two days amid ongoing violent disorder. (Alberto Pezzali/PA) ( PA Wire )

Just 14 per cent of the 2,114 adults surveyed believed politicians generally were handling the unrest well.

One in three were supportive of non-violent demonstrations that have been held alongside the violent disorder.

Sir Keir, who held a second emergency Cobra meeting on Tuesday night, has warned that the rioters will face the full force of the law.

He also chaired an emergency Cabinet meeting, afterwards saying the government will take all necessary action to bring the disorder to an end.

But Tory leadership frontrunner Robert Jenrick accused Sir Keir of having dithered and delayed with his response to the riots, pointing out that it took him six days to call the first Cobra meeting.

Fellow leadership contender James Cleverly called for the government to be much more proactive, expressing concern that the prime minister has been too slow in his response to the unrest.

Violence erupted across England and in Northern Ireland (Owen Humphreys/PA) ( PA Wire )

A standing army of more than 6,000 police officers are on standby to prepare for a new wave of violence at 39 demonstrations planned around the UK, with immigration lawyers, charities and support services expected to be targeted for further disorder on Wednesday evening.

Far-right thugs have engaged in violence in cities across the UK following wrongful claims on social media that the suspect accused of killing three young girls in Southport last week was a Muslim immigrant.

More than 400 people have already been arrested, with Downing Street suggesting that emergency measures used during the 2011 riots to allow courts to sit overnight could be implemented so that an influx of new cases can be prosecuted.

Director of public prosecution Stephen Parkinson last night told ITV News that there is potential for rioters to be charged under terrorism laws.

If certain elements are in place, if behaviour of this kind is motivated by ideology or political persuasion, its designed to intimate the public, theres an element of planning, we will definitely consider terrorism offences and those can result in even stiffer sentences, he said.

Ministers also claimed to be bringing forward plans to free up 500 new prison places over the next month, including a new block at HMP Stocken, new cells at HMP Cookham Wood and remedial fire safety work on other cells.

On Tuesday, the government warned that rioters could be jailed for up to 10 years, with justice minister Heidi Alexander reiterating that those taking part in any disorder have a prison place waiting for them.

But the prime minister has faced accusations of two-tier policing in the UK, a far-right claim which has been used to justify the disorder, suggesting police are taking a softer approach with left-wing and Islamic protesters than they are with white working-class protesters.

On Tuesday Elon Musk launched a tirade against the government on his social media platform, X, sharing a number of far-right posts and graphics critical of the governments handling of the disorder, one of which was posted under the hashtag #twotierkeir.

But Downing Street has rejected allegations of two-tier policing in the UK, with a spokesperson saying the government does not recognise that characterisation.
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This article first appeared in our partner site, Independent Arabia

Sixty-year-old widow Fatimou Badwan can read the Quran, albeit with some difficulty, and demonstrates proficiency in basic arithmetic operations like addition and subtraction. Her progress is credited to her participation in literacy programmes run by Moroccos National Agency for the Fight against Illiteracy. These programmes fall under the purview of the Ministry of Education, while the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs oversee literacy instruction in mosques.

Fatimou is among over one million men and women who have received literacy lessons during 2023 alone, according to statistics from the National Agency for the Fight against Illiteracy.

From darkness to light

Fatimou describes her struggle in overcoming illiteracy at a mosque in the bustling Farah neighbourhood on the outskirts of the Moroccan capital, Rabat as a journey from darkness into light, and from ignorance to knowledge. After years of struggling with illiteracy, she feels she has been given a new life.

The sixty-year-old was born in one of Moroccos mountainous regions, where educational opportunities for girls were scarce. Here, their primary roles revolved around tending to pastures, fields, or household chores, with formal schooling reserved only for boys. She spent most of her life according to her husbands wishes until his passing a few years ago. Her sons and daughters have since married and started their own families, leaving her with a sense of emptiness. It was this feeling of emptiness that prompted her to contemplate investing her time in participating in the literacy programme.

She opted for a literacy programme run by a mosque. She diligently attended lessons primarily focused on learning to read and write, along with other educational and enrichment activities. Over the course of a few years, she became proficient enough to read independently, including the Quran, letters, and other essential daily materials.

As for Zahwa, who didnt have the opportunity to receive an education in her rural community before relocating to the city of Sale, adjacent to the capital, she says that she takes literacy classes in an educational institution so that she doesnt feel inferior to her "educated" friends and neighbours.

She tells Independent Arabia that one of the reasons that prompted her to sign up to the course was her desire to find some basic employment to support her family. Her illiteracy had always hindered her from achieving this goal.

Official statistics

Figures recently disclosed by Professor Abdelouadoud Kharbouch, Director of the Moroccan National Agency for the Fight against Illiteracy, indicate that the number of beneficiaries of literacy programmes during 2023 reached more than one million people. In addition, over 9 million people have enrolled in literacy programmes since 2014, with 85 per cent being women and 65 per cent hailing from villages and desert regions.

The agency runs literacy programmes for various segments of society, with particular attention given to individuals with physical disabilities, as well as prisoners and workers in various professions and crafts.

In 2023, Morocco launched a literacy programme aimed at immigrants and refugees, alongside officially inaugurating the Institute for Training in Literacy Professions (IFMA). This was in cooperation with the Unesco-led Global Education Coalition and the Global Alliance for Literacy (GAL). Efforts were also directed towards empowering activists dedicated to combating illiteracy. These endeavours aimed to bolster the achievement of individuals involved in literacy programmes.

As for literacy initiatives conducted in mosques, official figures indicate that the total number of beneficiaries from the inception of the programme in 2000 to 2023 has surpassed 4.5 million, including 1.9 million people in rural areas.

Slow progress

Mahjoub Adriush, researcher in education and training systems, acknowledges Moroccos efforts in combating illiteracy. The countrys illiteracy rate was around 70 per cent in 1982, dropping to 43.2 per cent in 2004, with World Bank statistics from 2021 showing it had fallen to 24 per cent.

Adriush noted an uptake in enrolment in illiteracy eradication programmes; however, he remarked that progress in eliminating the phenomenon was slow and marginal. There were three primary indicators evidencing this, the first of which was that the illiteracy was not decreasing by more than one percentage point annually.

The second indicator, according to him, was that the approved programmes meant to contribute to reducing illiteracy were not yielding the expected results. The 2014/2020 roadmap, through which the government aimed to decrease the overall illiteracy rate to 20 per cent by 2016 and to less than 10 per cent by 2020, failed to achieve its goals as intended.

Adriush further noted that the third indicator revolved around womens education, whether in terms of non-attendance or dropout rates. These challenges stand as significant obstacles for the country in its efforts to eradicate illiteracy.

Positive discrimination

A 2023 report from the governments High Commission for Planning, indicates that the literacy rate among individuals aged 15 and above is 67.3 per cent. However, for women, this figure drops to 57.7 per cent. Among adults aged 50 and over, the literacy rate decreases to 41.3 per cent, while for women in this age group, it is 27.1 per cent.

According to Adriush, it is essential to implement positive discrimination and integrate a gendered approach into all public policies aimed at reducing illiteracy among women with the ultimate goal of eradicating it. This involves specifically targeting women and girls living in remote rural areas, far from established literacy centres.

He also proposed that the certificate awarded to women who have passed the literacy programme should not merely serve as a token, but also grant them privileges in accessing further training or qualification. This approach should aim to encourage more women to participate in the programmes.

Reviewed by Tooba Ali
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Two astronauts stuck at the International Space Station since early June may not return back to Earth until 2025, NASA officials have said.

The space agency has been examining whether the two stranded astronauts could come home on board a SpaceX craft instead of the Boeings Starliner capsule, which has been beset with problems since its launch over two months ago.

There is lingering uncertainty over the safety of Boeings capsule, NASA officials said on Wednesday, and the space agency is split over the risk.

As a result, chances are increasing that test pilots Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams may have to watch from the space station as their Starliner is cut loose to return to Earth empty.

If that happens, NASA would leave behind two of four astronauts from the next SpaceX taxi flight in late September, with the vacant seats set aside for Wilmore and Williams on the return trip next February. The pair expected to be gone just a week or two when they launched June 5 as Starliners first crew.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were originally set to return to Earth from the International Space Station in June. ( NASA )

NASA is bringing in additional experts to analyze the thruster failures experienced by Starliner before it docked. At the same time, NASA is looking more closely at SpaceX as a backup. At this point, we could take either path, said Ken Bowersox, NASAs space operations mission chief.

The disagreements over Wilmore and Williams return to earth prompted officials to postpone an in-depth readiness review of the Starliner and to delay a SpaceX launch that was planned for Tuesday.

The Independent has contacted NASA, Boeing, and SpaceX for comment.

Publically, Boeing has insisted it still stands behind the Starliner, which suffered mechanical issues on its way to docking at the ISS on June 6 for what was supposed to be an eight-day mission.

Boeing remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew, the company said in a statement on Friday. We continue to support NASAs requests for additional testing, data, analysis and reviews to affirm the spacecrafts safe undocking and landing capabilities..

Bringing the astronauts back in a SpaceX capsule would be a major blow to Boeing.

The Boeing Starliner suffered mechanical issues on its way to the ISS ( AP )

The June flight was its first crewed mission to the ISS on the Starliner, a flagship development from the aerospace giant meant to compete with SpaceX for contracts with NASA.

Last week, Boeing reported a $125m loss on the Starliner program, adding to $1.1bn in previous losses it has taken on the effort, according to SEC filings.

The ability of the Starliner to complete its ISS mission could weigh on the fate of the half-dozen contracts it has with NASA for future flights, according to the Journal.

The issues with the Starliner add to a season of difficulty for Boeing, which has been under heavy scrutiny amid a series of mechanical issues and whistleblower claims surrounding its commercial aircraft.

These questions will all surely be on the agenda of Robert Kelly Ortberg, who assumes the role of chief executive at Boeing on Thursday.
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Southern California was struck by a very strong 5.2-magnitude earthquake on Tuesday evening, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).

The epicenter of the quake was about 15 miles southwest of Lamont, Kern County. It struck at around 9.10pm PT, with people in Fresno, Bakersfield, Santa Clarita and as far afield as Los Angeles reportedly feeling its tremors.

A survey initially measured the earthquake at 5.3 on the Richter scale, before it was later downgraded to 5.2. Dozens of aftershocks registering as high as 4.5 magnitude began just 45 seconds after the initial quake.

The shaking at the point closest to the epicenter felt very strong, as defined by the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale.

The USGS, which is assessing the impact of the quake, said there is a low likelihood of damages and casualties  neither of which have been reported. There is also no tsunami danger, according to the National Weather Service.

Californians responses on whether they felt the earthquake, and its intensity if they did ( USGS )

Approximately 60 aftershocks were recorded over the following hour, according to the California Institute of Technology seismologist Lucy Jones.

Jones, who is based in Pasadena, noted that we are seeing a robust aftershock sequence, she wrote on X late on Tuesday.

The seismologist added that the quake took place near the White Wolf fault in Kern County, where an earthquake registering 7.5 on the Richter scale killed 12 people in 1952. It does not appear to be on the same fault as that earthquake, she confirmed.

A large boulder the size of an SUV was reportedly blocking lanes on Interstate 5 near Grapevine Road two minutes after the quake struck, according to the California Highway Patrol.

It is not clear whether the boulder has been removed.

Boulder on I-5 just south of Grapevine Road near Bakersfield ( KGET/NBC )

An emergency alert was sent out to many Southern Californians mobile phones from the USGS ShockAlert early warning system seconds before the shaking began.

Earthquake Detected! Drop, Cover, Hold On. Protect Yourself. -USGS ShakeAlert, the notification read.

Los Angeles Fire Department deployed helicopters and sent employees from stations to assess whether any injuries or structural damage had occurred in the city, which is about 88 miles from the epicenter.

In a post on X on Tuesday evening, the citys mayor Karen Bass confirmed there were no damages or injuries in the City of Los Angeles.

LA County Sheriffs Deputy Jose Gomez said he did not feel any tremors on his drive into work in the neighboring city of Santa Clarita, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Earthquakes with magnitudes between 5.0 and 6.0 occur five times per year across California and Nevada, according to a three-year data sample.

Every year Southern California experiences up to 10,000 earthquakes, with most of them registering low on the Richter scale and causing little to no damage or injuries.

The most recent significant earthquake (above a 6.0 on the Richter scale) in the state was the 6.4 magnitude quake that occurred in Ferndale, Humboldt County, in December 2022, in which two people were killed and 17 injured.
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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.
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A group of Oklahoma college students believe they were drugged in Cancun, Mexico after getting severely ill after going to a bar.

The 20-year-olds vacation to Cancun quickly became a nightmare after two women  Zara Hull and Kaylie Pitze  needed to be hospitalized after drinking water at a bar.

The friends landed in Mexico on Thursday. On Friday, they went to a pool bar. Anything after that is hard to remember, the college students told News9.

My water was fizzing. We were at the pool bar and we were both knocked out, Hull said.

The last memory I have is just walking in the pool, Pitze said. Theres no other explanation for this. Two girls dont just drop at the same time.

The two women wound up in a hospital that night. We were out, couldnt walk, couldnt talk, couldnt do anything, Pitze told the outlet.

Kaylie Pitze believes she was drugged at a pool bar in Cancun ( News9 )

Zara said she had suffered seizures: I started having convulsions in my stomach, so they called 911.

The students doctors told them they thought their drinks may have been spiked with synthetic fentanyl, according to the outlet.

Hull and her family have paid tens of thousands in medical bills following the incident.

When she arrived at the hospital, Hull was told there was a $10,000 deposit required for treatment to start, according to a GoFundMe page.

By Sunday, Hull was medi-flighted to the US  a trip that cost $28,000 and was paid for by a family friend, News9 reported. The evacuation number is about $60,000, at this point, her mother told the outlet.

A GoFundMe page has been set up, asking for $40,000. As of Wednesday morning, the fundraiser had raked in more than $18,000.

On Monday, Hull was moved out of the ICU, according to the page. For now she is spending time in the neurology unit while her body continues to detox from being over medicated in the Mexican hospital. This placement is out of caution and not related to neurological problems.

Hull told News9 there were times where she wasnt sure she was going to make it.

I am beyond blessed that everyone is reaching out, Hull said.

This could happen to anyone, Pitze added.
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Prosecutors have charged four hotel workers in Milwaukee with felony murder following the June 30 death of DVontaye Mitchell.

A criminal complaint states that the employees dragged Mitchell, 43, out of the Hyatt hotel after he entered a womans bathroom, and held him down on his stomach for eight or nine minutes. The staffers can be seen on cellphone footage holding Mitchell in the driveway of the hotel, telling him to stay down and stop fighting.

According to the complaint, one of the employees told investigators that Mitchell was struggling to breathe and asked for help several times. Shawn Moore, who witnessed the incident, told CBS News that he could hear screaming coming from the hotel as he was walking in the area.

Those charged include on-duty security guard Todd Erickson, 60, off-duty security guard Brandon Turner, 35, front desk clerk Devin Johnson-Carson, 23, and bellman Herbert Williamson, 52.

Mitchells brother Darrell Giles told TMJ4 that Its a small victory, but were grateful because weve been steppin for him ... we want these charges to stick.

Its a bittersweet win, because really we shouldnt be celebrating anybody getting charged with killing my brother, because it never shouldve happened in the first place, Mitchells youngest brother Rendell Giles told the local outlet.

The county medical examiner found that Mitchell died from restraint asphyxia and toxic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine.

The medical examiner found that Mitchell may have survived if the employees had let him lay on his side. The autopsy also found that Mitchell was morbidly obese, the complaint said.

D'Vontaye Mitchell, left, who died on June 30, 2024. Four hotel employees involved in his death have been charged with felony murder ( AP )

Mitchells relatives and their attorneys have previously viewed hotel surveillance video shared by the office of the district attorney. They have said they saw Mitchell being pursued inside the hotel before he was dragged outside and beaten.

Civil rights lawyer Ben Crump is one of the attorneys representing the Mitchell family. He has said that a video recorded by a witness, which has been shared on social media, shows security guards with their knees on Mitchells neck and back.

Crump has previously said that the video displays the use of excessive force against Mitchell and he previously questioned why Milwaukee authorities hadnt filed any charges in the case.

After the charges were filed on Tuesday, Crump said that today marks a significant step towards justice for the family of DVontaye Mitchell.

He added: The evidence, including security footage and witness statements, paints a disturbing picture of a man in distress who was met with excessive and lethal force. The fact that DVontaye was held face down on the pavement for eight to nine minutes  just like George Floyd  is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for accountability and justice.

Crump also represented the family of George Floyd following his 2020 murder by a Minneapolis police officer.

The company that operates the hotel, Aimbridge Hospitality, has said that a number of employees involved in the death have been fired.

Our hearts are with Mr. Mitchells family and loved ones as this case moves forward, a company spokesperson told CBS on Tuesday. We have cooperated fully with law enforcement in their investigation into this tragic incident and will continue to cooperate with the district attorney.
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A Connecticut man is accused of killing his 83-year-old father, marking the first murder the small town has seen in 21 years.

Ridgefield Police responded to a report of a domestic incident at 1am on August 3 at the home of Marc Uricchio, who was pronounced deceased at the scene, authorities said.

His son, Steven James Uricchio, 31, was taken into custody and charged with murder, police said.

He reportedly admitted to officers that he had killed his dad. I murdered him, according to a police report obtained by The Hour. Uricchio reportedly paused before adding: Really, really badly.

The scene was gruesome. Blood covered the stairs and walls. Authorities also uncovered a filet-style knife  covered in blood  at the top of the stairs. The octogenarian was found lying on the floor of his bedroom  with some of his organs found outside his body. The states chief medical examiners office determined that the father died from sharp force and blunt force impact to his head, neck, torso and extremities, according to the The News-Times.

After police detained Uricchio, he informed them that he had ingested a quarter of a bottle of Advil that morning. Officers then took him to hospital, where he was evaluated while handcuffed to a hospital bed.

He was later discharged and brought back to the police station, where he was held on $1.5m bond, police said.

What prompted the grisly killing is not immediately clear but police are investigating the incident.

The 31-year-old appeared in court on Monday but did not enter a plea, court records show. In court, his attorney mentioned that his client had a significant mental health history, according to The Hour. The judge ordered a mental competency test to see whether Uricchio was fit to stand trial.

His attorney later told reporters that the matter was a tragedy of Shakespearean proportions.

The Independent has emailed the attorney for further comment.

We want to reassure everyone that this was an isolated incident and there is no danger to the public, police said. This weeks murder marked the first that the 25,000-person town had seen since 2003, Ridgefield Police Captain Jeffrey Raines told The News-Times.

Such an incident shakes the town up. This is a very safe community, Raines added.

The towns First Selectperson Rudy Marconi called the disturbing death a shocking occasion here. Its a situation, an incident that were not used to.

Its a shocking occasion here. A very sad day for the family, for the individuals involved. The community will move forward, Marconi added. My condolences to the rest of the family for whatever they are going through.

Last year, the town was at the top of the Safest Cities in America list, according to one survey.
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When Sarah Adleman woke up on Wednesday, her first order of business, she said, was to go for a long run.

It was a fitting tribute to her mom, Nancy, who was strangled to death nearly three decades ago while jogging by the Brays Bayou river near her Houston home. She was 48 years old.

I have continued to run since she was killed, Sarah told The Independent. Thats one of the things that has enabled me to feel close to her, still So, I wanted to go on a run this morning, to honor her in that way.

On Wednesday evening, the man who murdered Nancy Adleman on July 29, 1997, is set to die by lethal injection at the state penitentiary in Huntsville, Texas. Her father and one of her two brothers will be at the execution chamber to watch Arthur Lee Burton die.

But Sarah, a 43-year-old Denver-area yoga therapist who works with traumatic brain injury survivors, will not be celebrating Burtons execution. Instead, Sarah will remember her mother by holding what she described as a gratitude and forgiveness ceremony at a local river, with her son, two of her closest friends, and their two sons, who are her own boys best friends.

Were going to just play in the river this afternoon  the sound of their laughter is one of the greatest joys in my life, and thats what I wanted to do today, Sarah said. In thinking about what my mom would want, she always said to choose joy.

Later in the evening, Sarah said she is hoping to conduct a fire ceremony, during which she will symbolically incinerate those things we no longer want to carry with us, those habits, thoughts, or what have you.

Nancy Adleman was brutally murdered while jogging near her Houston home. Her daughter later wrote to the man who killed her, but for years has kept his reply filed away, unopened. ( Courtesy Sarah Adleman )

Some time after Burton, now 54, was sent to death row, Sarah sent him a letter she mentioned the existence of, but did not include, in her 2019 memoir, The Lampblack Blue of Memory: My Mothers Echoes. Burton sent her a letter back, Sarah told the Houston Chronicle, but said she never opened it for reasons left unexplained.

On Wednesday, Sarah told The Independent that she wrote to Burton hoping for answers and information he would only be able to share while he remained alive. She said she told Burton in her note that she hoped he was at peace, and that its available for everybody.

I mostly wanted to know that he received my words that I had said, and so I requested a response back, Sarah said. And he wrote back, and I still havent opened the letter. Its something that I wrestle with; its literally filed in my file cabinets under the file, Life.

Sarah said she wonders if her refusal to read Burtons reply is a way of holding onto some power, that hes talking but shes refusing to listen. Now, Sarah thinks he may be ready to finally hear what Burton has to say.

Ive kind of thought [that] perhaps tonight, during the ceremony, that might happen, she said.

Arthur Lee Burton was convicted of murdering Nancy Adleman in 1997. His lawyers have appealed his death sentence all the way to the Supreme Court. ( Texas Department of Criminal Justice )

Burton confessed in 1998 to having attempted to rape Nancy Adleman, then strangling her to death with her own shoelaces, and was convicted of capital murder.

For any woman who has ever exercised alone, or walked to their car alone at night, this case is their worst nightmare, assistant district attorney Josh Reiss, chief of the Harris County District Attorneys Post-Conviction Writ Division, told USA Today, which has closely covered the case as Burtons attorneys continue to appeal his execution all the way up to the US Supreme Court.

During Burtons admission to police more than a quarter-century ago, he recounted the unimaginable grace Nancy expressed during her final moments.

As Sarah told The Colorado Sun in 2020, It is impossible for me to try and understand forgiveness without looking to the last words my mother spoke: I forgive you and God does too.

At the same time, Sarah said her dad continues to struggle with moving past Nancys horrific death.

I feel like I lost my father the same night I lost my mother, she told The Independent. Hes still here, but hes not the same person.

Adlemans father and brother will be on hand this evening to witness Nancy Adlemans killer be executed inside the death chamber at the Texas State Penitentiary at Huntsville. ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Burton however is hoping for a last-minute repreieve to spare him death.

Burtons lawyers say he is intellectually disabled and thus constitutionally barred from being put to death, according to a 2002 Supreme Court ruling. Prosecutors say the defense never mentioned anything about their clients disability until a week ago.

The disability only then came to light thanks to recently-developed evidence, defense attorney Steven Wells said in an Aug. 3 court filing.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Burtons final appeal remained pending, Wellss co-counsel Kate Johnson told The Independent.

Mr. Burton is a person with an intellectual disability, and his execution today would violate the United States Constitution, Johnson said in an email. We are hopeful that the Supreme Court will issue a stay of execution and intervene to ensure that the Texas courts follow the Supreme Courts precedent and do not conduct an unconstitutional execution.

Johnson said she expected some action from the high court by 6pm CDT, which is the earliest Burton could be executed. He will be the third person put to death in Texas so far this year, and the 11th in the nation.

Texas has three more executions scheduled for 2024, one in September and two in October, and a fourth set for Feb. 5, 2025.
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Elon Musks daughter Vivian Wilson has criticized her billionaire father on social media, labeling him a serial adulterer.

Wilson took to Threads to call the Tesla and SpaceX CEO a serial adulterer who is stupid, desperate and not a family man. She posted the comments alongside a screenshot of an X post in which Musk appears to be praising his own parenting.

It seems to me like youre trying to rebuild your brand image as the caring paternal father which I will not let go unchallenged, Wilson wrote on Tuesday. If Im going to be honest, this is absolutely pathetic. You just wont stop lying about me in interviews, books, social media, etc. Thank god youre absolutely terrible at it because otherwise this would be significantly more difficult.

Wilson, 20, is one of Musks oldest living children. Her mother is Justine Wilson, a Canadian author and Musks first wife.

I understand your new angle is this western values/christian family man thing but its such a weird choice, 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.

Elon Musks daughter ripped into him calling him a serial adulterer and not a family man. ( AP )

This is not the first time Wilson has been publicly critical of her father. Wilson, who is transgender, called her father out last month for using anti-trans rhetoric on social media.

In interviews and on social media, Musk has said Wilson is not a girl and was killed by the woke mind virus. In July, Musk also said he was moving the SpaceX and X headquarters to Texas from California, citing a new law that bars school districts from outing trans kids to their parents.

The 20-year-old responded to the comments in an interview with NBC News, calling her father cold and uncaring.

I think he was under the assumption that I wasnt going to say anything and I would just let this go unchallenged, Wilson told the outlet. Which Im not going to do, because if youre going to lie about me, like, blatantly to an audience of millions, Im not just gonna let that slide.

He was cold, Wilson said of Musk. Hes very quick to anger. He is uncaring and narcissistic.

Gender-affirming healthcare  which Musk has criticized  is lifesaving, Wilson said.

They save lives, Wilson said of gender-affirming treatments. Lets not get that twisted. They definitely allowed me to thrive.

The Independent has contacted Musk for comment.

Several Republican lawmakers at the state and federal levels have been outspoken opponents of transgender healthcare. In the House of Representatives, many GOP representatives have added waves of amendments to government funding bills that would bar federal spending on gender-affirming healthcare, such as gender transition procedures and hormone therapy, The Independent previously reported.

Meanwhile, the US is suffering from an epidemic of violence against transgender people amid a rise in anti-trans rhetoric and laws, the Human Rights Campaign said in a November 2023 report. From November 2022 to November 2023, 33 transgender and gender-expansive people were killed in the US. Now, in just the first eight months of 2024, at least 22 transgender and gender-expansive people have been killed.
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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.
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During the dark days of the pandemic, diners in New York City hoping to enjoy something similar to a typical restaurant experience were introduced to a "stop the spread" friendly compromise: outdoor dining sheds.

The small, enclosed dining spaces became popular while Covid-19 was tearing through the nation and helped restaurants stay afloat during the social distancing days. But now a new city program threatening hefty fines may see the majority of the sheds go the way of bespoke Etsy face masks and ivermectin shills.

Saturday was the final day for restaurants in New York City to apply for its new "Dining Out NYC" program.

Restaurants that have not registered with the program that continue to operate dining sheds will be fined $500 for their first offense, and an additional $1,000 for each additional offense until the sheds are removed.

Mayor Eric Adams and the City Council reached a deal in May that made outdoor dining a permanent fixture but with several requirements standardizing the spaces and regulations when they can be erected on the city's streets and sidewalks.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transportation, which is overseeing the program, said in a statement that fewer than 3,000 restaurants have applied for the program as of Saturday afternoon, Gothamist reports.

Workers demolish the outdoor dining shed attached to Ruffian Wine Bar, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in New York. The final day for restaurants to register for Dining Out NYC, a new city program regulating outdoor dining spaces, went into effect on August 3, but fewer than 3,000 restaurants in the city are participating ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

During the pandemic, approximately 13,000 restaurants were participating in the city's Open Restaurants outdoor dining program.

The new rules require restaurants seeking outdoor dining spaces like the sheds to pay for separate revocable consent and license fees. The latter is good for four years and costs $1,050 for a roadwalk or a sidewalk cafe, or $2,100 to license both.

The revocable consent fee varies based on the location and size of the outdoor space.

Previously, outdoor dining spaces varied in size and shape. Some restaurants erected small, wood-framed structures decorated with string lights, while others employed egg-like plastic bubbles to shield guests from others' airborne particulates.

Dining Out NYC will force a standardized design for all future outdoor dining structures and sidewalk dining. Under the new plan, fully enclosed spaces will be prohibited, while umbrellas, awnings and other coverings that can be easily torn down are encouraged.

A pedestrian stops on the sidewalk beside the outdoor dining shed at Caffe de Martini, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in the Brooklyn borough of New York. New outdoor dining regulations that will see many of the street and sidewalk enclosures disappear went into effect in New York City on August 3, 2024 ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Outdoor dining sheds will also only be permissible between April 1 and November 29 going forward.

That's going to be a problem for some restaurants, as they'll be required to tear down and store the sheds during the off-season. John Rodriguez, a Brooklyn restaurant owner, told Gothamist that storage costs were going to be a "big factor" for him going forward under the new plan.

He said he still planned to keep the outdoor dining area because, despite the costs of the new regulations, the spaces brings his Dos Hermanos restaurant more customers.

For other restaurants, like Manhattan's Indochine, the new standardized designs required by the city will be a marked downgrade from their current flashy outdoor cabana.

Jean-Marc Houmard, one of Indochine's owners, told the New York Times that the restaurant spent approximately $80,000 building their swanky black and red-trimmed cabana. He said he wanted the space to "look like a little bit of a tropical fantasy outside of the restaurant." Now he'll need to invest in umbrellas if he wants to continue operating a covered outdoor dining space.

Houmard told the Times that his fantasy cabana will soon be little more than scrap.

Unfortunately its just going to go to a dumpster, he said.

City officials have insisted that the plan will overall be better for both residents and restaurant owners under the new guidelines.

The program that sprang up out of necessity has matured, deputy mayor for operations Meera Joshi told the New York Times. Now we have standards to ensure that all outdoor dining structures are beautiful and well-maintained, and that they work with our overall streetscape to transform what it feels like to be outside in New York City for the better.

She said the guidelines would ensure there would be "no more shabby sheds" dotting city streets.
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Tropical Storm Debby is wreaking havoc along the East Coast after killing at least six people in Florida and Georgia.

Since Debby made landfall in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane on Monday, more than 18,000 flights in, out or around the US have been delayed, according to travel monitoring site, FlightAware. Another 5,000 fights have been canceled this week. New Yorks LaGuardia and New Jerseys Newark Liberty International were the worst-impacted airports on Wednesday afternoon.

Theres no answers, Ive been sitting around waiting, one passenger stuck at LaGuardia told Good Morning America.

Our flight was supposed to leave at 11:40 this morning, another passenger told the outlet. Were not leaving until 8:30 at night now.

Debby, which has weakened again to a tropical storm, has brought historic rainfall and catastrophic flooding across the southeast, the National Weather Service said. The storm was hovering off the South Carolina coast on Wednesday and will bring heavy rain to the region through Thursday.

Passengers wait in line at the Philadelphia International Airport on Monday as Tropical Storm Debby causes flight delays across the East Coast ( AP )

The storm system will then move north, bringing heavy rain to much of the East Coast in the coming days, with remnants impacting as far north as Maine through Saturday.

Some 33,000 people were still without power in Florida on Wednesday. Outages peaked at over 100,000 on Monday after Debby made landfall.

The storm has killed at least six people since hitting Florida, including two children. The first reported deaths came Sunday night after 38-year-old Megan McKee and her 12-year-old daughter, Andie McKee Baldy, died when their car lost control and crashed into a guardrail in Dixie County, Florida amid heavy rain. A 14-year-old was also injured in the accident but his condition is unknown, WALB reports.

A 13-year-old in Levy County, Florida died when a tree blew onto his mobile home on Monday.

Firefighters help rescue a car stranded on a flooded street in Savannah, Georgia on Monday as Tropical Storm Debby inundated the region. More than 18,000 flights have been delayed along East Coast ( AP )

Our thoughts and prayers are with this family as they deal with this tragedy, the Levy County Sheriffs Office said in a statement. We encourage everyone to use extreme caution as they begin to assess and clean up the damage. Downed powerlines and falling trees are among the many hazards.

Hurricane Debby intensifies throughout Florida

A 19-year-old died that same day in Moultrie, Georgia after a tree fell on his home. A 64-year-old semi-truck driver also died early Monday when his truck lost control and rolled into a canal on Floridas Interstate 75. Within 15 minutes, the cab was completely submerged in the canal.

When we got there the trailer was sticking straight in the air and the bridge was holding it, Mike McArthur, from Stepps Towing Service, told Fox13.

The sixth death was reported early Tuesday. Brian Clough, 48, and his dog died while on a boat anchored 50 feet from the Gulfport, Florida coast as Debby made landfall, local outlet WTSP reports.

The storm hit Savannah, Georgia and the surrounding region through Monday and Tuesday.

Savannah firefighters relied on boats to rescue and evacuate residents in flooded neighborhoods, the Associated Press reports. The firefighters also waded through the waist-deep water to deliver bottled water and other supplies to impacted residents.

Four people paddle down a flooded street in Charleston, South Carolina as Tropical Storm Debby hit the region on Tuesday ( AP )

Michael Jones, a Savannah resident, told the AP the floodwaters inundated his home and he was forced to spend Monday night floating on his kitchen table as he waited for rescue. Firefighters retrieved him early Tuesday.

It was hell all night, Jones said. It was a struggle, but God is good.

Debby hit the US during what is predicted to be an extremely active Atlantic season with up to 23 tropical storms and hurricanes this year, according to a peer-reviewed study from Colorado State University.

This spike is being driven by record-high ocean temperatures linked to the human-drive climate crisis. Last year was the hottest on record, and 2024 is expected to once again beat that record.
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FBI agents raided the home of Republican congressman Andy Ogles and seized his cellphone last week as part of an investigation into potential campaign finance and ethics violations.

In a post on X post, the representative for Tennessees 5th congressional district, confirmed that a search was executed on his home on Friday, following reports that his campaign had made mistakes in its initial financial filings.

Local news site NewsChannel 5 previously reported discrepancies in Ogless campaign financial disclosure forms, prompting the lawmaker to later admit he had not personally loaned his campaign $320,000 as he initially reported in 2022.

He later amended his disclosure forms and confirmed he transferred only $20,000 to his campaign, including the $320,000 figure as a mistake.

Following the raid on his home, the 53-year-old claimed in an X post that his campaign has been working with the Federal Election Commission to correct the mistakes and be more compliant, but that he will of course fully cooperate with the FBI in its investigation.

I am confident all involved will conclude that the reporting discrepancies were based on honest mistakes, and nothing more, he wrote.

Questions regarding the Republicans finances began after his election in 2022.

In Februay last year, NewsChannel5 reported that the Republican lawmaker does not have a degree in economics as previously claimed, but rather in international relations with minors in psychology and English from Middle Tennessee State University.

Ogles is currently seeking reelection having easily won the Republican primary on August 1, after being endorsed by former president Donald Trump.

Following investigations into his campaign finances from the Federal Election Commission, Andy Ogles is now being investigated by the FBI for the same incorrect claims made in official reports ( Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images )

The Republican lawmaker has twice filed articles of impeachment against Vice President Kamala Harris  the second time coming just two days after she announced her presidential campaign run.

Ogles claimed that Harris had demonstrated extraordinary incompetence in the execution of her duties and responsibilities, a stark refusal to uphold the existing immigration laws, and a palpable indifference to people of the United States suffering as a result of the ongoing southern border crisis in the United States.

His first attempt in June 2023, co-sponsored by Colorado representative Lauren Boebert, failed to pass through the House Judiciary Committee.
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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."
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The November election cycle is in full swing  and its shaping up to be one full of buzzwords and online trends as the competing candidates grapple to pull in votes from the American public.

Theres the term weird, which was coined by the new Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz to describe Donald Trump and JD Vance.

Theres brat, with Charli XCXs hit summer album becoming synonymous with Kamala Harriss campaign.

Theres also the offensive phrase childless cat ladies which Vance continues to face backlash over.

Not to mention a whole host of other buzzwords, from coconut trees to bears and Project 2025.

Here, The Independent takes a look at the top buzzwords and how they have dominated internet discourse so far.

Weirdos and brat

Perhaps the most successful labels wielded by the Democrats so far have been weird and brat.

When President Joe Biden stepped down as the Democratic presidential candidate, many female celebrities were quick to endorse Harris to replace him.

Among them was British pop star Charli XCX, whose sixth album Brat has been her biggest success yet, with Gen-Z women in particular championing the concept of a Brat summer.

Kamala IS brat, Charli posted on social media. This spurred an online frenzy which led Harriss campaign HQ to change its background image to the album artwork, and even prompted Fox News hosts to discuss whether they really want brats to run this country.

Online searches for Brat peaked on 23 July, and are often linked to queries such as brat Kamala, what does brat summer mean, and even coconut tree.

Meanwhile, for the word weird, Google Trends shows that the top related searches are now weird trump, vance weird, jd vance weird, vance is weird and walz weird.

New Democrat VP candidate Tim Walz has been credited with coining the term as a way to describe Republicans, telling MSNBC last month that these are weird people on the other side. They want to take books away. They want to be in your exam room.

The Democrats and Harriss campaign team have since run with the weird label, with the super PAC Wont PAC Down even releasing a video ad campaign titled: These Guys Are Just Weird.

The intended effect appears to have worked, since US-based Google searches for the term weird are highly linked with JD Vance and Trump.

Cats and crazy ladies and bears, oh my!

Animals seem to have been a bigger trend this election than anyone could have predicted  and for all the wrong reasons.

Just weeks after being chosen as Trumps VP pick, Vance faced widespread criticism for his resurfaced comments branding Harris and other women childless cat ladies.

Google searches for childless cat lady began to rise after Biden endorsed Harris and reached a head on July 26, after Jennifer Aniston condemned Vance for his insensitivity and regressive IVF policies.

The phrase is commonly associated with online searches for Vance childless, Vance cat lady, Kamala childless, and Usha Vance.

RFK Jr is seen next to a dead bear cub that he dumped in Central Park in 2014 ( Brian Stelter/Twiter )

But this is far from the only animal-related buzzwords linked to the election.

In the last few days, RFK bear has been searched over 100,000 times, after independent candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr. claimed he dumped a dead bear cub in Central Park in 2014 in a wild video posted on X.

Now, there is a spike in people searching RFK Jr, dead bear, bear cub, and dead bear in Central Park  the last of which reveals that yes, the story is true, and it caused a media frenzy in New York a decade ago when no one knew how the bear got there.

Coconut trees and contexts

If theres a word that has become synonymous with Kamala Harris, its coconut.

When giving a speech in May 2023, Harris shared an anecdote from her mother, who told her: I dont know whats wrong with you young people. You think you just fell out of a coconut tree? You exist in the context of all in which you live and what came before you.

If theres a word that has become synonymous with Kamala Harris, its coconut ( Getty Images )

The phrase went viral and witnessed a revival after Harris launched her presidential campaign, with a flood of memes and TikToks.

According to Google, some of the top searches associated with coconut are Kamala coconut tree, falling out of a coconut tree, and even what is project coconut  a humorous Gen-Z response to the right-wing Project 2025.

The word context is also associated with searches for Kamala coconut tree, in addition to another notable Harris phrase: unburdened by what has been.

Never Trump and Project 2025

Vance has appeared quite a few times on this list  but one of the most-searched topics appears to be his apparent former disdain for his running mate.

One phrase in particular has stuck out above the rest, as Vance said on a Charlie Rose interview in 2016 that he was never a Trump guy.

Now, as Trumps VP pick, Vances words have come back to haunt him.

Searches associated with the popular phrase Never Trumpinclude Vance never trump, jd vance, and never trump guy.

More recently, the phrase has been linked to increased Google searches for Trump never have to vote again, referring to Trumps repeated claim that you wont have to [vote] any more once he is in office.

Donald Trump pictured speaking at Turning Point Actions Believers Summit where he told Christians theyd never have to vote again ( REUTERS )

Four more years, you know what? Itll be fixed, itll be fine, you wont have to vote any more, my beautiful Christians, Trump told a Christian summit.

The implication that Trump may attempt to change the presidential voting system is linked to the broader proposals within the Project 2025 playbook  an initiative from the right-wing think tank Heritage Foundation which aims to reshape the federal government and make executive presidential power stronger under a Trump government.

Despite being proposed in 2022, Google searches for Project 2025 have only begun to take off in the past few months, reaching a peak on July 9.

Searches for the term reveal people are looking for an explanation about what the initiative is (what is Project 2025), though recent spikes in Google searches hone in on specific controversial propositions, including reducing veterans benefits.
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Donald Trumps running mate texted extensively with a right-wing activist known for spreading fabricated smear campaigns against Democrats and even denying the atrocities of the Holocaust during a Reddit Ask Me Anything (AMA) discussion.

JD Vance and Charles (Chuck) Johnson conversed about a wide range of subjects, according to text messages obtained by The Washington Post, including the war in Ukraine, UFOs, US-Israel policy and Jeffrey Epstein. The conversation occurred over the encrypted messaging app Signal; the texts were provided to the Post by Johnson as Vance seeks the vice presidency on the Republican 2024 ticket.

A spokesperson for the Ohio senator confirmed the validity of the texts but claimed to the Post that Johnson spam texted Vance, and that the senator only responded to push back against Johnsons wilder claims.

JD usually ignored him, but occasionally responded to push back against things he said, William Martin told the Post.

But the examples published by the Post do not only show moments of disagreement between the men. Vance can also be seen soliciting Johnsons opinion on various topics, while making admissions and other remarks of his own seemingly aimed at impressing the far-right conservative activist.

Dude I wont even take calls from Ukraine, Vance wrote in October of 2023, in one text obtained by the Post. Two very senior guys reached out to me. The head of their intel. The head of the Air Force. Bitching about F16s.

In other moments, though, Johnson could be seen badgering the senator over his connections to donors such as Sheldon Adelson and his former law professor Amy Chua, as well as his political positions. Vance clearly grows irritated with Johnson in one exchange obtained by the Post: Stop sending me weird messages. I find your threatening tone enraging.

Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance texted with Charles Johnson about numerous topics, but took issue with Johnsons threatening tone in some exchanges ( AP )

Vances ties to the far-right fringe of the Republican Party have made him an outlier in the Senate GOP and are part of the reason his pick as Donald Trumps running mate was seen by analysts as a nod to the the partys most diehard base of supporters, rather than a pickup that would benefit the campaign win over undecided voters. Trumpworld has cast Vance as a hardspun son of Appalachia whose connections to real America are more genuine than those of his Democratic rivals.

The Trump campaign has already faced questions about how closely Vance was vetted as a running mate before he was picked. The revelation of his texts with Johnson, a well-known conspiracy theorist, is likely to just add to those questions.

Johnsons political activism and embrace of bizarre and often simply false causes is well-documented. Most famous for his efforts to smear Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer as a sexual harasser with forged documents during the Trump presidency, the bearded, ginger-haired conspiracy theorist wrote that same year on Reddit that he had never believed the six million figure, referring to the number of known deaths in the Holocaust.

His views at the time resulted in a media controversy for Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz, who had invited Johnson to attend Trumps first State of the Union address to Congress as his guest. Johnson has maintained that he was not being truthful in that Reddit discussion, and instead was supposedly attempting to test the platforms speech policies.

Vances addition to the Trump 2024 ticket has already been a source of headaches for the Republican former president, who has seen his poll numbers slip as Vance became embroiled in his own controversy just days after becoming the vice presidential nominee. Comments he made to a conservative group in 2021 accusing Americans who do not have children of having less of a stake in the countrys future became the target of renewed criticism. The Ohio senator has attempted to deflect from the deeper political points he was making by focusing on criticism of his description of Democrats as childless cat ladies  a description he maintains is accurate.

Democrats have labeled Vances views weird and gone on the attack against their Republican rivals, sensing blood in the water. They are set to nominate Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, at their partys convention later this month.
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Hollywood star Jennifer Garner and Queer Eye alum Bobby Berk joined rural Democratic activists on a Zoom call on Tuesday in celebrating Vice President Kamala Harriss selection of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.

The Zoom call, formally called Rural Voters for Harris, took place after Harris and Walz took the stage in Philadelphia for their first rally since he was tapped to join her on the Democratic partys ticket.

Walz had been slated to make an appearance at the event before the announcement, but instead, Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan spoke after his selection and hailed Walz as an opportunity to make inroads with rural voters.

I know that you shouldn't sleep on seconds in command as lieutenant governor, and what I have watched in Kamala Harris has been just tremendous in inspiring leadership for me and for so many others all across the country, she said on the call.

A Harris-Walz victory would elevate Flanagan to become the first Indigenous woman to become governor of any state.

If I do say so myself, rural Democrats always have a way of taking time and opportunity where it's at, and so I'm very excited that on this day, we also get to celebrate historic announcement of Governor Tim Walz joining the ticket with our phenomenal present next president, Kamala Harris, Anderson Clayton, the chairwoman of the North Carolina Democratic Party who has pushed for Democrats to appeal to Black and brown voters in rural areas, said on the call.

But the biggest stars of the event were celebrities Berk and Garner.

Jennifer Garner appeared on the Zoom call in support of Harris and Walz ( Rural Americans for Harris )

Berk for his part talked about his experience growing up in rural Missouri and his late Republican father.

I really didn't have any hope that I was going to be able to change the mind of my 80-year-old dad, who thought it was his Christian duty to vote Republican, Berk said.

However, after the 2020 election, my dad called me up because he wanted me to know he did not vote for that man. He did not vote for Trump because of me and my husband Dewey.

Garner, a personal friend of Senator Joe Manchin, talked about the need to support rural areas  drawing on her own experience growing up in West Virginia with parents from Texas and Oklahoma.

And I'm not talking about like, you know, behind the Walmart, I'm talking about the time, but in the town behind the town, behind the town, who can get to Walmart, you know, with a group of people, maybe once a month, because that's how often they can afford gas, she said.

We have to get our neighbors excited, she said. We have to show our enthusiasm and our pride as we advocate for the Harris-Walz ticket and to the eventual success of having Harris-Walz in the White House, governing this country and caring about rural America, making sure that there's more opportunity for healthcare in the middle of nowhere.

Democrats have sought to shore up their support among rural voters in recent years in hopes of reshaping the partys old coalition that not only included Black voters, Latinos and young people, but many non-college-educated white voters who have drifted toward the Republican Party  a trend that Donald Trump accelerated.

Indeed, in Walzs final campaign for Congress, he narrowly won re-election in 2016 in his district in southern Minnesota when Trump won the district.

Harris and Walz will proceed to make a swing throughout multiple states this week, including Wisconsin, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada, all states that have both major urban populations as well as large swaths of rural areas.
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Vice President Kamala Harris and her newly announced running mate Tim Walz are barnstorming across battleground states this week after making their electric debut in Philadelphia on Tuesday night.

Harris and Walz  the presumptive Democratic presidential ticket  will next appear together in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday and then Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday.

Their Republican rivals Donald Trump and JD Vance have been tailing them on the campaign trail, with dueling stops in Michigan and Wisconsin earlier this week.

Harris and Walz have had to postpone scheduled visits to North Carolina and Georgia due to severe weather under Tropical Storm Debby. Trump and Vance have also postponed their North Carolina rallies. Those events will be rescheduled, according to the campaigns.

President Joe Biden won those swing states in the 2020 presidential election  except for North Carolina  and flipped Arizona and Georgia for Democrats by razor-thin margins.

View more

Harris and Walz kicked off their tour in Wisconsin with a rally and performance from Bon Iver on Wednesday afternoon. Governor Tony Evers and Senator Tammy Baldwin also joined the event.

That night, they were in Detroit before holding another campaign event in Michigan on Thursday.

With Harris and Walz heading west, Vance is spending the weekend at fundraising events in Texas.

Trump, who has been fundraising in Florida, will hold a rally in Montana on Friday, his first major campaign event in a week.

Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and running mate Tim Walz are holding rallies in several battleground states this week, with Republicans Donald Trump and JD Vance making their own stops ( AP )

At their Philadelphia rally on Tuesday night, 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.

Harriss 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.

Walz  a 60-year-old military veteran, former school teacher and congressman and the current governor of Minnesota  told the crowd that Trump doesnt know the first thing about service, because hes too busy serving himself.

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 and drove the economy into the ground, adding: Make no mistake: violent crime was up under Donald Trump.

Thats not counting the crimes he committed, Walz added.
As Kamala Harris sat alongside Joe Biden in the Situation Room on Monday evening, she may have felt some trepidation. The president and vice president were about to be briefed  for hours  on the threat of regional war between Israel and Iran. Harris was now advising as vice president on a war she may soon have to take on as president.

Israels assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in July, at a crucial moment in a months-long White House effort to reach a ceasefire deal, has brought the Middle East to the brink of war. It has also, importantly, brought US-Israel relations to breaking point.

Harris has been in the room as the Gaza war has spread over the past 10 months. As the White House now prepares for an Iranian response that would inevitably draw in US forces sent to the region to protect Israel, she has retained that front-row seat.

She was on the call when Biden reportedly erupted in fury at Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the assassination of Haniyeh, which sparked this latest round of fighting and likely collapsed a ceasefire deal with Hamas in Gaza.

Stop bull*****ing me, Biden reportedly told the Israeli prime minister on Thursday, frustrated over Netanyahus unwillingness to agree to a ceasefire.

Dont take the president for granted, he added.

Vice president Kamala Harris meets with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House grounds on July 25 2024 ( Reuters )

Biden finally losing his patience after months of seemingly being strung along by Netanyahu is a moment that may define US-Israel relations for years to come. And Harriss proximity to the fallout should give her the opportunity to avoid repeating Bidens mistakes.

She has had a front-row seat and a fantastic mentor on foreign policy over these last ... four years, Brett Bruen, a former US Foreign Service officer who served as director of global engagement during the Obama administration, told The Independent.

Even the senators who present themselves as strong on national security have never sat in the Situation Room and had to drive towards a decision. Theyve never had to implement a policy, and those are points in Harriss favor, he added.

If Harris manages to defeat Donald Trump in November, she may face an even bigger regional crisis than the one Biden had to contend with.

As she campaigns for the presidency, the Middle East is bracing for an all-out regional war. US officials warn that Iran could launch retaliatory strikes on Israel at any moment.

The last time that happened  in retaliation to an Israeli airstrike on an Iranian consulate in Syria that killed 12 people, including two senior generals in the Revolutionary Guards elite Quds Force  US and British jets shot down hundreds of Iranian drones over Jordan, Iraq and Syria.

The reaction this time is expected to be much more severe. On Monday evening, just hours before the Situation Room briefing, at least five US personnel were injured in an attack against a military base in Iraq. More and much larger attacks are anticipated.

President Joe Biden and vice president Kamala Harris walking across the tarmac after greeting reporter Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva and Paul Whelan at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., following their release as part of a 24-person prisoner swap between Russia and the United States, Friday August 2 2024 ( AP )

Irans leader Ayatollah Khamenei has vowed harsh punishment against Israel for the assassination of Haniyeh.

Both killings were blamed on Israel, which also claimed to have killed the commander of Hamass armed wing Mohammed Deif, the architect of Hamass massacre on October 7th.

The war in Gaza, and the regional fallout, have loomed large over discussions about Bidens legacy. The presidents unconditional support for Israel in the face of a massive civilian death toll and famine in Gaza had become a drag on his chances for re-election. It even prompted an organized campaign by Arab Americans  usually a reliable part of the Democratic base  to defeat him in November. And his unwillingness to condition military aid to Israel gave Netanyahu leeway to pursue a maximalist approach in Gaza and beyond.

Since announcing her candidacy, Harris has sought to strike a different tone on the Israel-Palestine conflict. She has spoken about Palestinian suffering with a directness that was missing from Bidens own statements, calling the destruction in Gaza devastating and declaring that she will not be silent following a meeting with Netanyahu.

Harris also skipped Netanyahus controversial speech to Congress  a decision that angered some Israeli officials.

Many progressives, and those who oppose the war in Gaza, hope that these initial signals from Harris may turn into concrete policy changes.

U.S. president Joe Biden is welcomed by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as he visits Israel amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 18 2023 ( Reuters )

Just the fact that shes been leaning into the humanitarian crisis a bit more and lifting up the needs of Palestinians and Palestinian lives and Palestinian rights and dignity in a way that Biden hasnt, I think is important, Matt Duss, former foreign policy adviser to Senator Bernie Sanders and now vice president of the Center for International Policy think tank, told The Independent.

But the hope is that a President Harris would potentially be willing to enforce restrictions on the use of US weapons. Thats something Biden has not been willing to do, he added.

Besides her shift in tone, and a more equal distribution of concern over civilian casualties on each side, Harris has not yet given any concrete proposals about how she would approach the Israel-Palestine conflict  and the subsequent fallout  any differently from Biden.

She does not have the same decades-long relationship with Israel that Biden has. But her on-the-job experience as vice president throughout the conflict, during which time she saw Biden repeatedly caught off-guard by Netanyahu, may make her more likely to take a tougher line. It is not unusual for American presidents to inherit wars from their predecessors  but rarely has a candidate for the Oval Office had this kind of access to a conflict that could define their own presidency.

Many were looking to Harriss choice of running mate for clues on how she might approach the issue, with some activists expressing concern over the possibility that she might choose Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro as her running mate.

Shapiro was, for much of the last few weeks, rumored to be the favorite to become the Democrats vice presidential nominee. In response to the rumors, pro-Palestinian voices took pains to brand him as Genocide Josh for his support for the war in Gaza and his condemnation of anti-war protesters.

Activists also raised concerns about his candidacy after it was revealed he had volunteered for the Israeli army as a high school student and worked in public relations at the Israeli embassy in Washington DC.

Tim Walz, a former member of the House of Representatives, has a different record. He has been a reliable backer of the Israeli government throughout his time in Congress and has described support for the US ally as a non-partisan issue. But the North Star State governor has also expressed a willingness to take into account the concerns of pro-Palestinian voters amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

When some 18 per cent of voters in his own state cast uncommitted votes in the Democratic Party primary  ostensibly in protest at Bidens support for the Gaza war  Walz said they and their concerns should not be dismissed out of hand.

Weve got eight months. Weve got to bring these people back in and listen to what theyre saying, Walz said at the time. Take them seriously. Their message is clear, that they think this is an intolerable situation and we can do more, and I think the president is hearing that.

If US forces are forced to engage Iran in a significant way, Harris may be forced to spend more time in the Situation Room than on the campaign trail in the next three months. And if the crisis continues beyond this latest round of tit-for-tat, it will likely interfere with the best-laid plans for her presidency.
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After his plane landed at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Wisconsin, Donald Trumps running mate JD Vance walked across the tarmac to get a closer look at Kamala Harriss Air Force Two.

But she wasnt there. After her plane landed on Wednesday afternoon, Harris met a group of Girl Scouts before she joined her motorcade to drive to a packed rally with her running mate Tim Walz in Eau Claire, where Bon Iver was performing for thousands of supporters.

Vance, after getting close to Air Force Two, turned around and walked over to a group of reporters instead.

Hopefully its gonna be my plane in a few months, he told reporters assembled on the tarmac.

I also thought you guys might be lonely because the vice president doesnt answer questions from reporters, Vance said.

I hope that she has changed her mind because it would be good for the American people and I think it would be good for you all if she actually ran a real campaign instead of one from a basement with a teleprompter, he said.

Harris and Walz are in fact touring several battleground states this week, starting from a barnstorming debut rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday night with stops in Wisconsin, Michigan, Arizona and Nevada over the next several days.

JD Vance appears to walk over to Harris's plane after landing in Wisconsin at same time

Vance, meanwhile, is trailing his Democratic rivals with much smaller campaign events. On Wednesday, he spoke to a crowd assembled in a parking lot outside a police station in Shelby Township, Michigan, followed by a stop inside an aviation ground equipment manufacturer in Eau Claire.

Trump and Vance have repeatedly accused the vice president of being absent on the campaign trail and dodging reporters despite a public schedule taking her across the country. Trump, meanwhile, has only been speaking with sympathetic media outlets, after he caved under scrutiny from a panel of Black journalists in Chicago last week.

An all-caps campaign fundraising message on Tuesday claimed that the world has gone to s*** and Kamala is nowhere to be found. She was on her way to Wisconsin at the time.

Its been over two weeks since Kamala was installed as the Democrat nominee, and since then, THE WORLD IS ON FIRE! according to the message from Trumps joint fundraising committee.
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Kamala Harris appears to be pulling ahead of Donald Trump in presidential election polling for the first time, with the Democrat taking a three-point lead over the Republican former president in a new survey.

A poll for NPR, PBS and Marist published on Wednesday places the Vice President on 51 per cent of the vote overall, compared to Trumps 48 per cent, and comes after her choice of Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her running mate was met with an overwhelmingly positive response.

Harris also leads Trump on abortion by a huge 15 per cent margin, although the latter has a six-point advantage over the former when it comes to illegal immigration, suggesting MAGA attacks on the Democrats past role as a border czar within the Biden administration are hurting her on that issue.

The poll in question was conducted between August 1-4 and comes with a margin of error of 3.4 per cent.

Now that Harriss rapid emergence from Joe Bidens shadow in the last two weeks has seen her officially secure enough delegates to clinch the Democratic nomination, a number of national polls have begun to emerge comparing her head-to-head with Trump for the first time.

A recent SurveyUSA poll also put her three points ahead of Trump on 48 per cent to 45 per cent, as did a University of Massachusetts Amherst poll (46 per cent to 43 per cent) while one for Morning Consult put the gap at four points: 48 per cent to 44 per cent.

Others argue the contest remains much closer, however, with YouGov/CBS News still placing Harris ahead but only by a single point at 50 per cent to 49 per cent.

Real Clear Polling gives Harris an overall advantage of just half a percentage point in its average of 11 recent polls, taking into account all of those quoted above.

Donald Trump and Kamala Harris remain closely placed in the polls but the Democrat appears to be pulling ahead for the first time ( AP )

Tatishe Nteta, provost professor of political science at Amherst, notes that Harriss three-point lead in her institutions poll is all the more remarkable given that President Biden was four points behind Trump in January, meaning she has more than eaten up that deficit less than two weeks into her candidacy.

For weeks after the first presidential debate in June, Democratic donors, prominent Democratic elected officials and members of the news media made the case that President Joe Biden faced long odds to defeat former president Donald Trump and called for Biden to step down, Professor Nteta said.

In the aftermath of Bidens historic decision to forgo his re-election campaign, it seems as if Bidens critics were indeed correct as his replacement, Vice President Kamala Harris, has emerged as the frontrunner in the race for the White House.

While there are still three months to go, the Harris campaign and the Democratic Party must like their chances to maintain control of the White House and to send former President Trump to his second consecutive defeat in his quest to return to Pennsylvania Avenue.

The picture is somewhat less rosy for Harris with regards to the swing states, with a Fox News poll finding her deadlocked with Trump in Pennsylvania, the state in which she unveiled Walz as her running mate on Tuesday evening and which she could have attempted to sow up by selecting its governor, Josh Shapiro, in his stead.

Democratic firm Public Policy Polling finds the Vice President down one in Pennsylvania and in Georgia and two behind in Arizona, whose senator Mark Kelly might have also have helped her make headway there.

Polling site FiveThirty Eight agrees that Trump is up two in Arizona and one in Georgia but sees Harris ahead in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, albeit by extremely narrow margins in each case.

For his part, Trump has been left reeling by Harriss sudden ascent to the top of the Democratic ticket, struggling to find a meaningful means of attacking her beyond mispronouncing her name or questioning her ethnicity, while Walzs labeling of the Republican and his running mate JD Vance as weird appears to have taken root with voters.
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Former Donald Trump White House official Peter Navarro warned that firing personal attacks against Vice President Kamala Harris is not a winning strategy for the former president.

Harris has faced relentless racist and sexist attacks from Republicans in the few weeks that she has run for president  but Navarro cautioned that such comments will backfire.

The former Trump trade adviser insisted in his Tuesday Substack column that in order to defeat Kamala Harris in November, Trump must beat her with the policy stick, not gratuitous personal attacks.

Republican politicians, TV commentators, and radio talk show hosts who play the Willie Brown card, ridicule the infamous Harris cackle, or demean Harris as a DEI hire will only advance the Harris strategy, Navarro wrote. Such personal attacks build a misplaced sympathy for Harris, particularly when the invective comes from men  like it or not, its a Mars vs. Venus world.

To attract swing women voters and independents, he advised the best Republican strategy is to run hard on the Trump policy agenda, referring to the economy, the border crisis, and foreign policy.

Navarro speaks at the Republican National Convention. He warned that personal attacks against Harris are unlikely to help Trump win in November ( Getty Images )

Navarros opinion comes less than a week after the former president questioned Harris race at a National Association of Black Journalists conference.

I didnt know she was Black, Trump said. 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?

In short, she is both. Harris mother was from India and her father is from Jamaica.

Before Trumps remarks, some in his party have called her a DEI hire, which stands for diversity, equity and inclusion, and others have called her colored.

Others still have made sexist remarks, like suggesting Harris had ascended to power by sleeping her way to the top

Harris has also faced a barrage of comments about her intelligence  including from her Republican rival who has claimed that she has a low IQ and called her dumb as a rock.

Navarros comments also come as GOP strategists and prominent Republicans fear that Trump is suffering a public nervous breakdown as he slips behind Harris in the polls.

Navarro was released in July from a four-month prison sentence. He was charged with two counts of contempt of Congress after defying subpoenas for his testimony before the January 6 House panels probe into the events surrounding the Capitol attack.
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JD Vance is being roasted online over an embarrassing gaffe at a rally on Tuesday, where he appeared to be campaigning for Democratic rival Kamala Harris.

Donald Trumps running mate appeared on stage at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to deliver a speech in front of national news cameras and Republican supporters.

Behind him was a stage backdrop reading: KAMALA CHAOS.

But Vances attempt to trash the Democratic presidential candidate spectacularly failed, as the backdrop was partially covered by rallygoers leaving only the name KAMALA visible.

The image quickly went viral on social media, with critics roasting Vance for unwittingly appearing to campaign for his opposition.

JD Vance appears to campaign for his opponent, Kamala Harris, thanks to an embarrassing stage design gaffe at his Philadelphia rally on 6 August ( Reuters )

Those people look extremely unhappy, wrote one X user. Based on the sign, I guess they were expecting Kamala.

Making reference to a rally in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, another commented: So first he talked in front of Youre fired signs. And now he speaks in front of a sign advertising his opponent.

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) also mocked Vance in a post that racked up thousands of likes and reposts.

Heres why you should hire union stagehands and stage designers: (They did not), the union wrote.

Even Fox News didnt hold back, with host Jessica Taylor bringing up the viral moment when discussing the Trump-Vance campaigns apparent confidence in beating the Democrats in November.

Yeah theyre definitely projecting that. I saw JD Vance this morning in front of a huge Kamala sign where you couldnt even read the chaos so everything is going really well for that side of the aisle, she quipped.

Trumps choice of VP pick has already raised eyebrows in recent weeks.

Some Republicans are said to be questioning whether he was the right choice to take on the Democratic party, as he continues to face backlash over a 2021 video which resurfaced showing him calling Harris and other Democrats a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives.

On Tuesday, Harris finally announced her own running mate pick  Minnesota Governor Tim Walz  following weeks of speculation since President Joe Biden dropped out of the race.

The Democratic duo held their first rally together at Temple Universitys Licouras Center in Philadelphia that night, with the freshly-chosen Walz pulling no punches against Vance in his speech.

After weeks of speculation, Kamala Harris announced Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her running partner in the US election on 6 August ( AP )

I cant wait to debate the guy ... if hes willing to get off the couch and show up, he said, in a swipe over a wild online rumor about Vance.

With 91 days to go until the November election, as of 7 August there is no solid date for another debate between any of the candidates.

Trump was scheduled to debate Biden on ABC News on 10 September, but after Biden pulled out of the presidential race and was replaced by Harris, Trump has refused to commit to the event.

Instead, he has pushed for the debate on Fox News on September 4, prompting Harris campaign to accuse him of running scared.
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In a move that is rarely encouraged in a job interview, Tim Walz sat in the dining room of the US Naval Observatory reeling off a string of his self-confessed weaknesses to Kamala Harris and her vetting team.

He doesnt know how to use a teleprompter.

He isnt from a swing state and is relatively unknown.

And, hes a bad debater.

These candid admissions, however, all helped Walz ace the final interview and secure his position as Harriss vice presidential pick over contenders Josh Shapiro and Mark Kelly.

It was a home run, a member of the vetting team told CNN. Everyone loved him.

Walz was an outsider and Harris knew the least about him compared to his Democratic adversaries when he found himself in the running.

But, insiders told CNN that Walzs transparency over his vulnerabilities, willingness to be a team player and his revelation that he does not harbor ambitions to one day become president that went down a treat in the Democratic presidential nominees camp.

Walzs home run interview was down to his honesty, transparency and lack of ambition to be president, sources say ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Walz first endorsed Harris for president on July 22 after President Joe Biden abandoned his re-election bid.

In the two weeks that followed, speculation ramped up about who Harris would pick to join her on the ticket with the candidates quickly getting whittled down.

The final shortlist was made up of three names: Walz, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.

On Sunday, Harris and her team held final interviews  dubbed chemistry tests  with the three candidates at her home in DC.

During Walzs interview, Harris asked him if he would run for president.

Walz said no  an answer that reportedly struck Harris.

A person involved with the vetting process told Politico that Walz acknowledged that his political career was nearing its end and that the 2024 election is not about me.

And if I have to run through a brick wall, if I have to do the hard things, he allegedly said, adding: Im willing to do it because Im not angling for anything else.

Walz went on to give a clear depiction of how he saw his potential role as vice president and said he would do whatever Harris asked of him. He was at ease and very natural, one senior aide who was briefed on the interview told CNN.

Asked whether hed like to win the veepstakes, the policy maker was said to have replied that only if Harris wanted him there.

Walz made it clear that he would be a partner to Harris and had no intention of running for the top job ( Getty Images )

He had a very clear understanding that it was to be a partner, but to support the president, go out and connect with America and be that governing partner, Cedric Richmond, a White House advisor who was deeply involved in the selection process, told CNN.

While Walz was asking What can I do to help?, the pundits favorite Shapiro was said to be negotiating the job with the vice president, CNN reported.

Along with his loyalty and honesty, Harris also believed that Walz could attract the types of battleground state voters that Donald Trump cannot.

The former high school teacher and Army National Guard veteran hunts, he fishes, you want to have a beer with him, a source told the outlet. He will play in Michigan, Wisconsin, Western Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina.

Another Democrat and acquaintance of Walz added that he talks and looks like a lot of the voters weve lost to Trump.

Walz also set himself apart with his newly-coined buzzword for describing Trump and his vice presidential pick JD Vance: weird.

The critique thrust Walz into the spotlight last month and quickly went viral, with the Republican duo still struggling to shake off the unflattering adjective.

Harris herself liked how it became a thing, a person involved with the vetting process said.

Trump and JD Vance were labelled as weird by Walz - and they cant shake it ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Walz had also earned the support of Democratic heavyweights including former House speaker Nancy Pelosi and former president Barack Obama, who said in a statement Tuesday that Walz has the values and integrity to serve the American people.

On Tuesday morning, after sleeping on the matter, Harris made her final decision.

She called the Walz household to tell him she had chosen him as her running mate.

He didnt answer the first call but picked up on her second try.

Hours later the pair took to the stage for their first rally in Philadelphia where Walz spoke publicly for the first time as the new Democratic vice presidential pick  and handed staffers a box of donuts.

Before taking to the stage, the governor had one thing left to do: practice using a teleprompter.
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An Arizona grand jury that voted to indict 18 Republicans for their attempts to reverse Donald Trumps election loss in the state also wanted to see criminal charges against the former president himself, according to new court filings.

Documents from Arizonas attorney generals office have offered a glimpse for the first time into a grand jurys deliberations surrounding the states election interference case that led to criminal charges against more than a dozen Trump officials and his Republican allies.

It is unclear how many grand jurors wanted to see criminal charges against Trump, who by then was already charged in a federal election conspiracy case from special counsel Jack Smith.

But it was revealed that prosecutors, working under Democratic attorney general Kris Mayes, gave grand jurors a PowerPoint presentation to outline a Department of Justice policy about overlapping state and federal charges.

The prosecutors ultimately requested that grand jurors not indict Trump or several state lawmakers, according to a motion filed in Phoenix on Tuesday.

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 prosecutor told the jurors, according to filings.

I know that may be disappointing to some of you, the prosecutor added.

Donald Trump arrives at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 31. New court documents reveal grand jurors in Arizona wanted to criminally charge him for a fake elector scheme. ( AP )

The investigation into a Republican-backed plan to subvert Joe Bidens 2020 victory in Arizona, and deliver the states 11 electoral college votes to Trump instead, has resulted in criminal charges against more than a dozen top Trump advisers, Trump attorneys and sitting elected officials in Arizona.

White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and attorneys Rudy Giuliani and John Eastman were charged, along with Arizona Republicans who signed paperwork that falsely declared Trump the winner of the last presidential election.

Those Republicans included a former state GOP chair, two sitting state lawmakers, and a former Senate candidate.

They have pleaded not guilty to charges including conspiracy, forgery and fraud.

Trump was not mentioned by name in the 58-page indictment, but he was referred throughout the document as Unindicted Co-Conspirator 1  a former president of the United States who spread false claims of election fraud following the 2020 election.

On Monday, the attorney general announced that charges had been dropped against former Trump-allied lawyer Jenna Ellis, who has agreed to testify against other defendants. Her testimony could be crucial in the case against Giuliani, Trumps former personal attorney, who prosecutors have linked to several critical moments surrounding the spurious effort to overturn the states election results.

Last year, Ellis pleaded guilty to charges in a similar case in Georgia, where she also has agreed to cooperate with prosecutors.

On Tuesday, another defendant in Arizona, Loraine Pellegrino, reached a plea deal with prosecutors on a misdemeanor charge of filing a false instrument and will avoid jail time.

The agreement with Pellegrino  a Phoenix-area, right-wing activist who acted as secretary for the states fake electors  reflects her desire to move forward and put this matter behind her, according to a statement from her attorney Joshua Kolsrud.

Jenna Ellis, pictured speaking to her attorney after reaching a plea agreement with prosecutors investigating an election interference scheme in Georgia in 2023, has agreed to cooperate in a similar case in Arizona. ( AP )

Pellegrino received a sentence of unsupervised probation with community service, which acknowledges her remorse and willingness to make amends, according to her attorney.

Arizona is one of four states where prosecutors have filed criminal charges against so-called fake electors and others who used false claims about voter fraud to promote an effort to throw out results. It was part of a nationwide scheme by Trump allies perpetrated in swing states where he lost to Biden.

In June, a judge in Nevada dismissed the states case against six fake electors on procedural grounds, marking the first time that a case related to Trumps attempts to reject election results has been dismissed.

Similar cases are underway in Michigan and Wisconsin, while another case in Georgia is hung up on appeals to determine whether the chief prosecutor  Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis  should be disqualified.

The federal election interference case against Trump  which was mired in delays for months as the former president argued that he was immune from criminal prosecution  is now back in the hands of a federal district judge. She will begin hearing arguments this month to determine how to apply a Supreme Court ruling that shields him from charges.
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Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump are set to face off against each other for the first time on the national debate stage on Tuesday and how they perform under the limitations of the rules will be under a microscope.

After several days of back-and-forth, the two candidates finally agreed to comply with the same rules that Trump and President Joe Biden used during the first presidential debate back in June.

That includes muted microphones, no pre-written notes, no live audience, no sitting, and no speaking with campaign staff between commercial breaks.

Though many of the rules are standard for presidential debates, the originally agreed-up regulations could put Harris at a disadvantage since she has a different skill set than President Joe Biden.

Here are the rules for Tuesdays debate in Philadelphia and who stands to benefit.

Muted mics

Microphones will be live only when the candidate whose turn it is to speak is talking. Otherwise, they will remain muted.

This was a rule that Biden and Trump initially agreed upon. But its one that Harris tried to change once she became the Democratic presidential nominee.

Despite Trump saying it doesnt matter to him whether microphones stay on, his team threatened to pull out of the debate if the rules were changed.

Former president Donald Trump during the first presidential debate against President Joe Biden. Audiences and the media agreed that Trump prevailed in the first debate ( Getty Images )

Trump is notorious for interrupting people and making snide comments when he is being attacked. During his civil and criminal trials, judges have scolded the former president for speaking out of turn in the courtroom.

Brian Fallon, a top aide for Harris, wrote on X that Trumps handlers dont trust him to spar live.

Ultimately, Harris agreed to the muted microphone rule but Fallon told ABC News that Harris would be fundamentally disadvantaged.

However, a pool of journalists will be permitted in the hall and can report on remarks that are muted for television audiences, according to AP.

No prepared notes or help

Candidates cannot bring pre-written notes or props to the podium and must stand for the entire duration. They will be given a pen, pad of paper and water bottle. Additionally, campaign staff may not interact with either candidate during the two commercial breaks.

Improvising is neither Harris nor Trumps strong suit but the former president has more experience doing so than Harris.

Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2020 vice presidential debate. Audiences largely considered Harris to be the winner of that debate ( AFP via Getty Images )

Trump goes on long-winded, off-topic tangents at rallies, press conferences and during interviews. But hes good at praising his agenda and policies while tearing down Democrats, although sometimes it results in him making extreme statements.

As a former prosecutor, Harris excels in getting to the point concisely and clearly. But when asked to improvise, she can stumble and say things that are easily misconstrued. In previous interviews, she has been mocked or criticized for misspeaking.

No opening statements

There will be no opening statements during the debate, only closing statements. Trump has won a coin toss and chose the order of statements. Harris will give the first closing statement and Trump will go last.

The former president is at a slight advantage since he can hear all of Harriss talking points before delivering the final word of the debate.

Moderators will ask the questions

Only the moderators of the debate, David Muir and Linsey Davis, will be permitted to ask questions and there will be no live audience.

This means candidates must answer the question in full, and give a rebuttal in a direct and easy-to-understand way, because it will be a slightly more formal setting than previous debates.

Harris has a slight advantage to the former president in this aspect because she is better at remaining on topic and hitting multiple points more quickly than Trump.

The debate will air on ABC News beginning at 9 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
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Secret Service snipers were positioned outside a rally for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in Wisconsin, the first major outdoor presidential campaign event since a gunman opened fire on Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania last month.

Secret Service agents were positioned outside the Harris-Walz rally in Eau Claire on Wednesday, where the vice president and her running mate, other Democratic officials and musician Bon Iver appeared before 12,000 people at an outdoor event space.

Last week, acting Secret Service director Ronald Rowe said that both the Republican and Democratic candidates will have similar counter sniper coverage moving forward.

Our campaign cadence now has obviously picked up, and were going to put all the resources out there to address any challenges that we have, Rowe said from Washington on Friday.

Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania marked the first time that a Secret Service counter sniper had been assigned to one of Trumps events, according to Rowe.

A Secret Service sniper is positioned next to a campaign event for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on August 7. ( AP )

That counter sniper fired a single fatal shot at the 20-year-old gunman who had fired eight rounds from an AR-15 style rifle while on a rooftop outside the rallys security perimeter.

The gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, struck Trumps right ear, killed one rally attendee, and critically injured two others.

While the Butler rally marked the first time that Secret Service had deployed a counter sniper to Trumps Secret Service detail, other law enforcement agencies have provided similar coverage at other campaign events, which are typically closely coordinated between Secret Service personnel and state and local police.

Secret Service officials have repeatedly urged the former president to stop holding outdoor rallies, but Rowe told reporters last week that its on the Secret Service to make sure we create a safe environment.

Its on us to figure out what we gotta do to mitigate that, he said.

In an all-caps post on Truth Social on July 27, Trump said he will continue to do outdoor rallies, and Secret Service has agreed to substantially step up their operation.

They are very capable of doing so, he added. No one can ever be allowed to stop or impede free speech or gathering!!!
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New details have come to light about a 2020 phone call between Tim Waltz and Donald Trump when armed Proud Boys showed up outside the Democratic vice presidential candidates home in what appeared to be a response to a tweet from the then-president.

When the Covid-19 pandemic ravaged the US, Minnesota Governor Walz  like other state governors  implemented restrictions to try to combat the spread of the virus.

The restrictions prompted some protesters to come out in force and, on April 17 2020, Trump appeared to encourage them  with a cryptic post on Twitter, now X, specifically targeting Minnesota.

LIBERATE MINNESOTA! he posted.

Following Trumps tweet, members of the far-right group the Proud Boys  who months later were instrumental in the January 6 riot on the US Capitol  descended on Walzs home armed with guns.

Walz was left stumped about the meaning behind Trumps tweet and contacted him to find out, according to a 2021 interview Walz gave to Politico columnists Alexander Burns and Jonathan Marti for their bookThis Will Not Pass.

The interview was published for the first time on Wednesday, hours after Walz was unveiled as Kamala Harriss vice presidential pick to take on Trump and his running mate JD Vance in November.

Walz was left questioning what Trump meant in his tweet ( Getty Images )

Walz was desperate to quell the unrest in his state and keep his family  and dog  safe, and wanted to understand what Trump meant by his tweet.

The Minnesota governor said that he called Trump for clarification.

What does Liberate Minnesota mean? What do you want me to do differently? What do you think that Im doing or not doing? Walz said he asked the president over the phone.

I never got a response, he admitted.

Walz said he told Trump that his language was unhelpful and would result in events that would leave his children scared.

Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio was arrested in September for his role in the Capitol riots ( AP )

I just asked, and I said I just really, really wanted to clarify exactly what you mean. I did not jump to the conclusion on that. And it wasnt facetious when I asked him  this was in April of 2020, it was pre-George Floyd, he continued.

In the 2021 interview, Waltz noted the volatile nature of Trumps language  and its potential to incite violence.

Just to be very candid, the rhetoric that the president engaged in, and then was amplified by others, changed the whole dynamic especially in a state like Minnesota, he said.

The new details were revealed the same day that Trump called into Fox & Friends on Wednesday morning, where he laid into Walz as the Democratic partys new vice presidential candidate.

In the interview, Trump briefly mentioned one of his few interactions with Walz during the Black Lives Matter protests that spread through Minneapolis in May 2020 following the murder of George Floyd.
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Donald Trump launched into a scathing attack against Tim Walz on Wednesday morning, calling into Fox & Friends to brand the Minnesota governor a shocking pick for vice president who will immediately push the country towards communism.

Hes a very liberal man and hes a shocking pick, Trump told hosts Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt, and Brian Kilmeade in an animated phone call to the network.

Theres never been a ticket like this. This is a ticket that would want the country to go communist immediately, if not sooner.

He continued: Hes very heavy into transgender. Anything transgender he thinks is great.

Trump attacked the new Democratic VP pick on Wednesday as he called into Fox News ( AP )

The former president spoke out hours after Kamala Harris announced she had chosen Walz, 60, as her running mate, calling him a partner who can help build this brighter future.

Following the announcement, Trumps campaign team had quickly fired off a dramatic fundraising email claiming the Minnesota governor will unleash hell on Earth  fiery comments that led a wider Republican meltdown over Harriss choice of VP pick.

Wednesday morning marked the Republican presidential nominees first public comments on the Democratic appointment, with Trump describing Walz as a smarter version of Harris who has a similar political stance as progressive Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders  picking up an attack line used by Lauren Boebert yesterday.

Harris and Walz took to stage at their first rally together on Tuesday night ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

He also claimed that Walzs pick is very insulting to Jewish people, a clear jibe at the policy-makers more-sympathetic views towards Palestinian refugees trapped in the Israel-Hamas war.

The former president said that he had only spoken to Walz once: when Black Lives Matter protests spread through Minneapolis in May 2020 following the murder of George Floyd.

Trumps attack on Walz comes after the Minnesota governor-turned VP pick landed some blows on the former president and his own running mate JD Vance during his first rally with Harris on Tuesday night.

The Democratic duo were met with roars of applause when they kicked off their campaign speaking to the more than 12,000-strong crowd at Temple University in Philadelphia.

Trumps torrent of criticism included claims that Walz is very heavy into transgender ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Walz called out his opposite number with a bruising joke as he called him out to the debate stage.

I cant wait to debate the guy... if hes willing to get off the couch, he said in reference to a viral online joke.

Walzs swipe at Vance comes after he coined the now-iconic buzzword weird to describe Trump and Vance last month  an insult that the pair cant seem to shake.

Josh Shapiro, who narrowly lost out to Walz as Harriss VP pick, joined in with the crowd chanting that JD Vance is a weirdo.
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Nigerian security forces have detained seven Polish nationals for displaying Russian flags during protests against economic hardship in the West African nation, Nigerian and Polish authorities said Wednesday.

The Poles were arrested Monday in the northern Kano state because of where they were found during the protests and for displaying foreign flags, said Peter Afunanya, a spokesman for the Nigeria secret service, at a meeting of diplomats hosted by Nigerias foreign affairs ministry in the capital, Abuja.

Among the Poles arrested were students and a lecturer, the Polish foreign affairs ministry said on X, adding that The consular service is establishing the exact circumstances of the incident with the local authorities."

Thousands of mostly young Nigerians had poured onto the streets across the country to protest against the countrys worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation and against alleged bad governance that has stifled the countrys development despite being a top oil producer.

In several northern states, a few protesters were seen waving Russian flags, a trend that until now was only common in Africa in coup-hit countries where pro-Russian sentiments are growing off the back of coups by militaries severing ties with the West.

The Nigerian secret service spokesman did not say if the Poles being detained participated in the protests when they were arrested.

In response to a question by a Polish diplomat about their whereabouts, Afunanya said the agency was open to working with Poland on the issue.

It is not a targeted operation at Polish citizens, he said.

The Nigerian secret service had said Monday that it had arrested the tailors sewing the Russian flags as well as those sponsoring them.

Analysts have said the trends of waving Russian flags during protests, seen for the first time in Nigeria, could be dangerous, and shows just how far anti-Western and pro-Russian sentiments have grown in parts of Africa.

In one viral video from Kano state, a protester who looked to be in his teenage years held a Russian flag beside a placard that read: Russia come and help us.

Nigerias military chief Christopher Musa said such acts constitute treason, which is punishable by death in the country and is defined by Nigerian laws as any act that among other things instigate(s) any foreigner to invade Nigeria with an armed force.

____

Follow APs Africa coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/africa
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Two people have died and several others were trapped after a hotel in a German wine valley collapsed, .

Six people, including a two-year-old child and their parents, were rescued from the wreckage without serious injuries.

"I have never been so happy to see a strangers child," rescue operation chief Joerg Teusch said of the tearful moment the toddler was rescued from the building.

By Wednesday evening, one person was believed to remain trapped at the site in the western town of Kroev, which sits within the steep banks of the river Moselle. But rescuers expected to reach them by sunset.

The second floor of the two story hotel fell in last night ( Reuters )

Fourteen people were in the hotel when one storey of the building collapsed at about 11pm local time on Tuesday (10pm BST).

Police said five were able to get out of the building unhurt because they were not in the part that collapsed, but others were left trapped.

Rescuers were able to contact some of them by mobile phone, but reaching them proved to be difficult because the collapse of one storey left two ceilings lying on top of each other, rescuers said.

Joerg Teusch, fire and disaster protection inspector for the Bernkastel-Wittlich district, said: "We have to proceed with caution because the entire building structure is like a house of cards. If we pull on the wrong card, this building is sure to collapse."

Among the first to be saved was a two-year-old child pulled out unharmed and the child's mother, who was rescued with minor injuries. The child's father was rescued later.

Mr Teusch said at a news conference: "We all had tears in our eyes and I still feel the same now. The whole story has a very emotional component, because when we arrived, when we looked at the building, it looked like we weren't taking anyone out."

A womans body was recovered but emergency responders have not yet reached the corpse of the second, male victim, Mr Teusch said.

Michael Ebling, interior minister in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, where Kroev is located, said the fact that so many people could be rescued "stands out in view of this event, the damage and the dimensions one can see with the naked eye".

Emergency responders are working to rescue the two remaining survivors trapped under the rubble ( Reuters )

The original hotel building is believed to date back to the 17th century, but additional storeys were added around 1980, Mr Teusch said. He added that building work had taken place on Tuesday, but it was not clear whether there was any link between that and the collapse.

Regional public broadcaster SWR said that witnesses reported hearing a bang and seeing a large cloud of dust at the time of the collapse.

250 police officers, firefighters and paramedics were called to the site in the popular holiday town, with cranes and sniffer dogs also employed to assist in the operation.

Mr Teusch said: "There was no option [to use] stairs, house entrances, doors or windows, because they were simply no longer there."

Meanwhile, 21 people were evacuated from their nearby homes for safety reasons.

State prosecutor Peter Fritzen said the investigation into what caused the collapse will begin once the rescue effort has concluded.

Associated Press contributed to this report
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The eldest son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit is under suspicion for causing bodily harm and criminal damage, Oslo police said Wednesday.

Marius Borg Hiby is the stepson of the heir to the Norwegian throne, Crown Prince Haakon, and is the son of Mette-Marit from a previous relationship. He has no royal title or official duties.

On Sunday, officers responded to a disturbance in downtown Oslo and a man in his 20s was briefly detained. Police have confirmed it was Borg Hiby, 27, who faces preliminary charges of bodily harm and criminal damage, one stage short of formal charges, and was released.

Details were unclear but police said there was a relationship between the suspect and the victim. In a statement, officers said they currently do not have information that the victim has suffered serious injuries.

The case was top news in Norway where the royals are popular.

Norwegian news agency NTB said that Mette-Marit had postponed a planned trip to attend the Olympic Games in Paris while her husband Haakon traveled to the French capital. The reason for the postponement was not given.

In Paris, Haakon told Norwegian reporters that it is a serious matter when the police are involved in the way they are, but at the same time it is not right for me to go into the details of the case.

Borg Hiby lives with the royal couple and their two children  Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus.

From left, Norways Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Prince Sverre Magnus and Crown Prince Haakon watch a parade ( Lise Aserud / NTB )

Norways future queen made headlines in 2001 when she married Haakon, because she was a single mother who had lived a freewheeling life with a companion who had been convicted on drug charges.

Born on 20 July 1973 in Oslo, Norway, Prince Haakon is the only son of King Harald and Queen Sonja. He has an older sister, Princess Martha Louise, who stepped down from her royal duties in November 2022. While he is the King and Queens youngest child, he was still born as heir to the throne. It wasnt until 1990 that Norways order of succession became absolute primogeniture, which is a law that allows the eldest child to be next in line for the throne, regardless of what gender they are.

Haakon got his Bachelors degree in Political Science at University of California at Berkeley in 1999 and his Masters in development studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science in 2003.

He also served in the Navy after graduating from the Royal Norwegian Naval Academy in Bergen in 1995. As noted by the The Royal Highness official website, he holds three different ranks in his services: General in the Norwegian Armed Forces, admiral in the Norwegian Navy, and general in the Norwegian Air Force.
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Intense battles are taking place between Ukrainian forces and Moscows troops after one of the largest incursions into Russian territory since Vlasimir Putins invasion began  prompting the Russian president to accuse Kyiv of a major provocation.

The surprise incursion began on Tuesday morning, when hundreds of Ukrainian troops reportedly entered the Kursk region according to Russias Defence Ministry and the areas governor, Alexei Smirnov. Kyiv has so far remained quiet about the scope of the operation.

Ukraine is reportedly gaining a foothold in the Kursk region and could be as far as nine miles (15km) inside the border, according to unverified reports from Russian military bloggers. Telegram Channels affiliated with Russias Defence Ministry have claimed that Ukrainian troops are in control of three villages in the Sudzha district of Russias Kursk region, which borders the Sumy region of northeast Ukraine.

( AP )

Putin met with his top defense and security officials on Wednesday and instructed the Cabinet to coordinate assistance to the Kursk region. The fighting is about 320 miles (500km) from Moscow.

Official Russian sources initially said the incursion had been repelled yesterday, before admitting in the early afternoon on Wednesday that the attack was still ongoing.

Army chief of staff Valery Gerasimov told Putin at the meeting via video link that about 100 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed in the battle and more than 200 wounded, Russian news agencies reported. Those numbers could not be verified.

Putin convened a meeting with his top defence staff in response to the attack, including General Gerasimov on the screen ( AP )

US-based think tank, the Institute for the Study of War, said they had geolocated a number of abandoned armoured vehicles in the Kursk region, while Russia released images claiming to show Russian missiles striking Ukrainian military vehicles which had crossed the border.

Acting governor Alexei Smirnov said civilians were being evacuated from the border area as fighting in the region was ongoing, with 300 people housed in temporary accommodation. Smirnov has also called on residents in the region to donate blood following the recent violence.

The attack may be an attempt by Ukraine to divert Russian troops away from the fronts in eastern Ukraine, such as in the Donetsk region which has been the main focus of fighting recently. Russia has already sent reservist troops to the Kursk region where the situation is difficult, Smirnov said.

Russia released images claiming to show missile attacks against Ukrainian military vehicles which crossed the border ( Russian Defence Ministry/AFP via )

But the incursion could risk stretching outmanned Ukrainian troops further along the front line, which is more than 600 miles long. Even if Russia were to commit reserves to stabilize the new front, given its vast manpower and the relatively small number of Ukrainian forces engaged in the operation, it would likely have little long-term impact.

However, the attack boost Ukrainian morale and embarrass the Kremlin at a time when Kyiv's forces are facing relentless Russian attacks and are expected to face more in coming weeks.

Several Ukrainian brigades stationed along the border region said they could not comment. Ukraine's Defense Ministry and General Staff said they would not comment.

Elsewhere, Russia is continuing its advance towards Pokrovsk, a key strategic hub for Ukraines army around 70km northwest of Donetsk city in eastern Ukraine

The General Staff of the UKrainian armt reported 42 combat clashes on the Pokrovsk front - the most of any frontline across Ukraine in the 24 hours until Wednesday morning. At least 136 combat clashes were recorded across 10 fronts which included Siversk and Lyman, both north of Donetsk and the Kharkiv and Kupiansk fronts in the northeast.

At least three people had been reported dead and 25 injured over the past day up until early this morning, regional authorities said But at lunchtime, four more people were reported killed following shelling in the Donetsk region, governor Vadym Filashkin said on Telegram.

Ukrainian servicemen on the frontline near Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region ( EPA )

Meanwhile, it was a difficult day for Kyiv in diplomatic terms, as Niger became the second African country to cut ties with Ukraine, amid a row over the Kyivs alleged support for a rebel attack last month which killed dozens of Malian soldiers and mercenaries from Russias Wagner Group.

Ukrainian outlets reported that Andriy Yusov, spokesperson for Ukraines military intelligence agency GUR, had admitted Kyivs support for the Tuareg rebels who claimed responsibility for the attack on Malis border with Algeria.

Reports suggested Yusov said the rebels received all the necessary information they needed, but he told the Financial Times that he had made no such statement.

Mali also announced two days ago that they had severed diplomatic ties, in a decision which Ukraine described as short-sighted and hasty.

It is a blow to President Zelenskys efforts to build relations with countries in Africa, an aim which he set out in December 2023 for the year ahead.

Foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has nevertheless been on a tour in Africa, meeting Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera on Monday before meeting his Zambian counterpart yesterday - where the two foreign ministers signed a memorandum of understanding.

To conclude the three-stop tour, Kuleba will visit Mauritius later this week.
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More than 1,000 British military personnel are on standby for a possible evacuation of British nationals from Lebanon on the same scale as the operation during the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan.

Soldiers, Royal Marine commandos, sailors and aviators have been deployed to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus which is just 45 minutes by air from Lebanon and will act as a hub if there is an evacuation mission. Hundreds more men and women are ready in the UK to be deployed to the region at short notice, The Times reports.

The Foreign Office has repeatedly called for its nationals to leave the country after the killings last week of two militant leaders in Lebanons capital Beirut and Irans capital Tehran  both attributed to Israel  brought vows of revenge from the militant group Hezbollah.

Passengers whose flights were cancelled, wait at the departure terminal of Beiruts airport ( AP )

There are now real fears of an all-out war that would be even worse than the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, believed to have killed around 1,300 Lebanese people and 165 Israelis. Israel warned Dahiyeh, a neighbourhood in Beirut, would be flattened in the next conflict.

The military has prepared for an evacuation on the same scale as the infamous operation to rescue people from Afghanistans capital of Kabul during the Taliban takeover in 2021, according to The Times.

Operation Pitting, as it was formally known, saw more than 1,000 military personnel airlift 15,000 people to safety on more than 100 flights in the largest British evacuation since the Second World War.

As many as 16,000 British nationals are thought to currently be in Lebanon, foreign secretary David Lammy told the House of Commons last week. He has urged them to leave, saying: Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is clear  leave now.

Neither Israeli nor Lebanese officials have issued any orders to evacuate or prepare, even as many airlines have suspended service.

The US embassy in Beirut also issued a security alert on Saturday to encourage American citizens in the country to book any ticket available to them, even if that flight does not depart immediately or does not follow their first-choice route

Hezbollah legislator Amin Sherri said the government has an emergency plan in case of all-out war and the country has enough fuel and medicine to last between two and four months. Huge diplomatic efforts, led by the United States, have been underway, trying to prevent the explosion of a full-scale Middle East war.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
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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.
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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
A Northern Ireland police chief said an element of paramilitary involvement was behind recent disorder in Belfast, as violent anti-immigration protests sparked by stabbings in Southport continue.

Police came under sustained attack and the victim of a suspected hate crime is in a serious condition in hospital following the disorder in Belfast on Monday night.

I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, Jones said during a press conference in Belfast on Tuesday afternoon. But added that she was not in a position to conclude paramilitaries were the main organisers behind the protests.

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.
Ultra-orthodox protesters stormed an Israeli military recruitment base on Tuesday, 6 August, in a demonstration against their impending enlistment.

Footage shows mounted police and troops chasing a group out of Tel Hashomer military base after they jumped barriers and broke through a fence.

It was the latest protest against a landmark Supreme Court order for young religious men to begin enlisting for military service.

Ultra-Orthodox men had previously exempt from the draft, which is compulsory for most Jewish men, under long-standing political arrangements.
Animal rights protesters from Peta interrupted Pope Franciss weekly general audience on Wednesday, 7 August, calling for an end to bullfighting.

The activists ran into the room in the Vatican wearing t-shirts reading Stop blessing corridas and raised banners reading Bullfighting is a sin before they were escorted out by Swiss Guards.

Spanish-style bullfighting is also known as corrida de toros. The organisation has been urging the pontiff to condemn bullfighting.

In a written statement, Peta said: These gruesome spectacles are often held in honour of Catholic saints and on holy days, the Catholic Church can and must help end this abuse by condemning bull torture in the name of religion.
Suspects were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder on Wednesday, 7 August, as part of Staffordshire Polices investigation into far-right disorder in Tamworth.

A 28-year-old and a 43-year-old man, both of Tamworth, were arrested on this charge, while a 37-year-old man, also from Tamworth, was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, police confirmed.

Violence broke out at a Holiday Inn hotel in Tamworth on Sunday evening (4 August), where reports suggested asylum seekers were also being housed.

Fires were started, windows smashed and missiles were thrown at officers, Staffordshire Police said.
A carer working a 12-hour shift looking after the elderly was devastated to find out his car had been torched by thugs during riots in Middlesbrough.

Brendan Nwabichie was in the middle of his shift when criminals deliberately set fire to his vehicle during rioting in the town on Sunday (4 August).

Mr Nwabichie told BBC News today (7 August) that the incident has left him fearful for the future.

Mr Nwabichie said: When I came back home, I just saw the remnants of it. I could not recognise it.

I went to the bathroom and cried because I know how long it took me to save the money to buy it.

It makes me question what am I even doing here?
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Taylor Swifts Eras Tour concerts in Vienna have been canceled after Austrian law enforcement officers arrested two people suspected of planning a major attack on one of the performances.

Federal and local officers worked to arrest the two men on Wednesday. Police said one of the men, 19, had pledged allegiance to ISIS last month. The teen was arrested in Ternitz, an hour south of the capital, on Wednesday morning while the other man was taken into custody in Vienna hours later.

Both suspects had become radicalized on the internet and had specific plans to carry out an attack, officials said. The 19-year-old Austrian citizen was arrested with chemicals found by a bomb squad, and investigators are now determining if they could have been used to make an explosive.

The performances, which were originally scheduled for Thursday, Friday and Saturday night at Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna, are now canceled. This move comes after officials initially said the concerts were set to move forward with heightened security.

open image in gallery Taylor Swift, pictured performing in Amsterdam on July 5, will move forward with her Vienna, Austria concerts this week, police said ( Getty Images for TAS Rights Mana )

We have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety, management company Barracuda Music said in a statement. All tickets will be automatically refunded.

The A-lister has not commented on the potential attack.

The Independent has contacted Swifts representative for comment.

open image in gallery People gather at a vigil to mourn the three children killed in a stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, UK ( Getty Images )

The arrests come just days after a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed childrens dance class in Southport, England. The attacker killed three children: six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Five other kids and two adults were also seriously injured in the July 29 attack.

Swift paid tribute to the children the next day.

The horror of yesterdays attack is washing over me continuously and Im just completely in shock, she said in a statement. The loss of life and innocence and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families and first responders.

These were just little kids at a dance class, she continued. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.
The firm reported profits of over $92m in 2022 and is valued at $1bn

Rare earth minerals are critical in powering motors in electric vehicles and wind energy turbines. Photo: Getty

Dublin-based rare metals investor TechMet has received an initial $180m (165m) investment from the Qatar Investment Authority as part of a wider $300m fundraising round.

TechMet, which was founded by Brian Menell, has invested more than $450m to date in mineral and related projects across the world. Its backers also include the US International Development Finance Corporation, a government agency. TechMet is now valued at more than $1bn.

It backs companies hunting for rare-earth minerals as well as metals including lithium, cobalt and nickel. It has invested in projects across the world and also invests in companies developing battery technology.

At the end of 2022, it had invested $48.5m in Brazilian Nickel Plc, $25.1m in Trinity Metals, and $138m in its US subsidiary.

The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) is the countrys sovereign wealth fund, overseeing about $500bn of assets.

QIAs investment further highlights TechMets position as a leading global critical minerals investment company, Mr Menell said.

A major sovereign investor coming in alongside the US government accelerates our ability to scale and expand the portfolio and build significant value across critical minerals supply chains.

Mr Menell said TechMet will also work closely with QIA on identifying additional future investment opportunities.

The most recent set of publicly available accounts for TechMet show that it made a $92.8m profit in 2022, down from $109.6m the year before. The company paid a $54.2m dividend in 2022. The profit generated in 2022 came as the group realised a $71m gain on an investment.

Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, chief investment officer of Americas at QIA said that critical minerals are essential for the global green transition.

This investment builds on QIAs theme of diversified energy transition and critical minerals investments, he said.

The latest funding round brings to $105m the total that has been invested in TechMet by the US International Development Finance Corporation.

The European Union is trying to wean the regions dependence on critical minerals away from countries including China.

Lithium and rare earths are already replacing gas and oil at the heart of our economy, European Union president Ursula von der Leyen said in 2022. By 2030, our demand for those rare earth metals will increase fivefold.

Companies from Canada and China are among those that have been hunting for commercial-scale lithium deposits in Ireland.

China became dominant in rare earths, a group of 17 minerals, by producing them at lower prices than the West, helped by government support, and often ignoring environmental concerns in a sector that can create toxic waste. In recent years, China has beefed up sustainability and closed polluting operations.

Under a new EU law that entered into force in May, the trading bloc has set ambitious 2030 targets for domestic production of critical minerals required for its green transition  10pc of annual needs mined, 25pc recycled and 40pc processed domestically by the end of the decade.

The bloc has zeroed in on rare earths as one of the most important critical minerals due to their use in permanent magnets that power motors in electric vehicles and wind energy turbines.

EU demand is forecast to soar sixfold in the decade to 2030 and sevenfold by 2050.
Irish leasing firm appeals $50m award to US airline Frontier

AMCK had committed to buying from and leasing back to the Colorado firm six Airbus jets  but then the pandemic hit

Frontier claims that AMCKs assets were 'raided' as part of the takeover process. Photo: Getty

John Mulligan Wed 7 Aug 2024 at 03:30







Dublin-based aircraft lessor AMCK  now part of the Carlyle investment group  has appealed a ruling that in June saw a US court award Frontier Airlines a total of almost $50m (45.7m) in a dispute linked to six Airbus jets.
Music festival Electric Picnic has announced a Gaeltacht Campsite will return this year in an effort to promote the Irish language and culture.

The Stradbally festival made the announcement in partnership with the Irish language advocacy group Conradh na Gaeilge's Croi na Feile initiative.

The campsite will be called An Lathair Ghaeltachta and will be a hot spot for Irish-speaking festival goers. The campsite exclusively for gaeilgeoirs has been a staple at the festival since 2018.

Attendees at the three-day festival, which takes place from August 16-18, will have the opportunity to get involved in an Irish-speaking environment, pitching their tents at the designated site.

The Irish language experience at Electric Picnic will include the An Chollchoill stage in which festival goers can listen to a mix of traditional music every night from 7pm until midnight.

The stage will host a mix of traditional and contemporary acts, including Irish language artists such as Burnchurch and Huartan, DJ performances from Ailbhe Ni Riain and the renowned Bandia group known for their Irish language covers.

Orlaith Nic Ghearailt of Conradh na Gaeilge said: "Electric Picnic is a cornerstone of Irelands summer social calendar, bringing together thousands of people to celebrate through music and culture.

Festivals give us the opportunity to express ourselves in a unique way  and what is language but an expression of identity. This years programme will bring festival goers down through the woods to a stage full of beautiful music and exciting bands, with both seasoned artists and up-and-coming acts set to take the stage."

Paula Melvin, President of Conradh na Gaeilge said: Conradh na Gaeilge, with the support of Foras na Gaeilge, has put the Irish language at the heart of Electric Picnic since 2018 and we look forward to bringing Croi na Feile back to Irelands biggest music festival this year.

"People will have the opportunity to use Irish at the festival by camping in the Gaeltacht campsite and by stopping by the Collchoill stage on all three nights. Weve gotten great feedback every year to date and its great to see Irish at #CroinaFeile in the festival community!

Attendees are encouraged to register for the Gaeltacht campsite through online ticketing website Eventbrite. With limited spaces available, early registration is recommended to ensure a spot at the Irish language promotion initiative.
Fontaines D.C have cancelled their Istanbul gig, which was due to take place on August 20, in solidarity with Palestine.

The five-piece Irish post-punk band formed in Dublin is made up of Grian Chatten, Carlos OConnell, Tom Coll, Conor Deegan III and Conor Curley who made the announcement on their Instagram story. Zorlu, the sponsor of the venue they had been due to play, has been linked to investments in Israel power plants.

"The global Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, led by the largest Palestinian coalition, has called on artists to refuse to play Zorlu PSM (Performing Arts Centre) until Zorlu fully divests from the supply of energy to Israel while it carries out what the International Court of Justice now agrees is plausibly a genocide, the post said.

BDS Turkey have claimed that Turkish multinational conglomerate Zorlu Holding provides "economic and logistical support for the Israeli occupation regime".

The band added that they were really looking forward to performing for their fans in Instanbul, but stated that they must be clear in their convictions and put solidarity with the people of Palestine first.

Fontaines DC cancel Turkey gig in solidarity with Palestine. Pic: @fontainesband

Full ticket refunds will be available to fans.

Fontaines D.C. are currently touring around Europe and playing at various festivals, including the UKs Reading Festival and Leeds Festival on August 24 and 25, respectively.

The band are preparing to release their new 11-track album, Romance, on 23 August, which they will support with a global tour.

Starting on 20 September in Seattle, Washington, they will embark on a 20-date tour across the US and Canada, visiting major cities including San Francisco, California; Englewood, Colorado; Omaha, Nebraska; Toronto, Ontario; Boston, Massachusetts; and Washington, DC, before concluding in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on October 10.

After a month-long break, they will resume their tour in the UK and Ireland on 20 November, with performances in Wolverhampton, London, Cardiff, Plymouth, Nottingham, Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, and Dublin.
Knecap arrive at the Dublin Premiere of their film at the Light House Cinema. Picture Andres Poveda

West Belfast hip-hop trio Kneecap have said they didnt think their biopic would go beyond Belfast as their first film had its Dublin premiere tonight.

All members of Kneecap  Mo Chara, Moglai Bap and DJ Provai  arrived tonight in their blue jeep waving Irish and Palestinian flags at the Light House Cinema in Smithfield, Dublin 7.

Kneecap is an Irish language biopic set in the West Belfast Gaeltacht Quarter in 2019 which follows the trio's unlikely rise into figureheads of a Civil Rights movement to save their mother tongue  Irish.

Knecap arrive at the Dublin Premiere of their film at the Light House Cinema. Picture Andres Poveda

The comedy-drama sees the Kneecap trio  Liam Og O Hannaidh, Naoise O Caireallain and JJ O Dochartaigh  playing themselves in their acting debuts, alongside an ensemble cast including Academy Award nominee Michael Fassbender, Josie Walker and Simone Kirby.

Speaking to the Irish Independent on the red carpet tonight, Moglai Bap said the group didnt think the movie would go beyond Belfast.

"People in America and outside of Ireland are enjoying it, he said.

"We enjoyed [acting]. We got acting classes for six months, he said, as Mo Chara added that the process of creating the movie was good craic.

Meanwhile, DJ Provai said: Theres a lot of people looking into their own indigenous cultures a lot now after watching the film, Native Americans, the Aboriginals.

Seeing theres a lot of intrinsic value there  the culture and language.

He added that their film might encourage more people to learn their native language after watching it.

Duolingo probably owns us a 10pc share at least, he joked.

Mr O Dochartaigh also said the recent unrest in Belfast is not representative of the Irish community.

"Its not very representative of us as a community, as Irish people, because for long enough we were treated the same way when we were in England and other places around the world, he said.

And for people coming to Ireland and be treated the same way, its disgraceful.

The Irish-language feature has recently been selected by the Irish Film & Television Academy as the Irish entry for the Oscar Best International Feature Film at the 97th annual Academy Awards next year, making it the second Irish-language movie to represent Ireland in the category after An Cailin Ciuin.

Kneecap director and former journalist Rich Peppiatt, best known for One Rogue Reporter, said the team knew they had a special film.

"If we get to the [Oscars] red carpet, you can imagine the carnage that the lads are going to bring with them so Im not sure the Oscars are ready for that, he said.

"Theyre brilliant.

The Oscar International Feature shortlist will be released on December 17, with the final five Nominees announced on January 17.

Kneecap made history last January when it premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival and won the NEXT Audience Award, making it the first Irish-language film to do so.

Meanwhile, the movie had its Irish premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh where it won three awards, including Best Irish Language Feature Film and Best Audience Award.

The group first made themselves known on the Irish music scene in 2017 with their single C.E.A.R.T. A.

They later released an EP 3CAG in June 2018 and their debut album Fine Art in June 2024. Their hits include Better Way to Live and Its Been Ages.

Kneecap will premiere in Irish cinemas on Thursday, August 8.
Courts

Ex-footballer Anthony Stokes jailed after he was caught with almost 4k of cocaine following high-speed garda chase
The family of the schoolgirl (5) who was seriously injured during a stabbing outside her school on Dublins Parnell Square have described the emotional moment she visited her home for the first time since the incident last November.

The two other children and a carer who was also injured during the incident, were treated in hospital in the aftermath and have since been discharged.

In an update shared yesterday, the family of the young girl said her visit home was a big step towards bringing her home for good.

"We got to bring our baby home for a visit. It was the first time since November that she was in her room, they said in an update shared to an online fundraiser that has raised over 96,000 since the incident.

"We were able to move to an adapted home, so it was also the first time she saw her new neighbourhood and house. It was a big step towards bringing her home for good... a very emotional one. And she did not disappoint. What a warrior!

It comes after the family paid tribute to those impacted by the mass stabbing incident in Southport last month.

Bebe King (6), Alice Dasilva Aguiar (9), and Elsie Dot Stancombe (7), died after a stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed event in Hart Space in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday July 29.

Our hearts go out to the families of the children in England, the family said.

They have repeatedly described the young girl as their little warrior and told supporters in July that there was talk of a discharge before Autumn.

"Even after a nasty stomach bug, she is doing well with her feeds, and she enjoys play time and her therapies, they said.

"She is able to communicate what she likes, doesn't like, and is in great spirits. She has now become more interested in playing with sand, play dough, colouring. She has also been able to work on her maths and spelling. We are looking forward to the next chapter. Thank you all so much for the love and support.

In the last update in June, her family shared that the schoolgirl was able to stay awake all day, engage with nurses, doctors, therapists and teachers and said her communication had become clearer.

We had a school tour yesterday. The school hospital threw a lovely event! She dressed up, played, and everyone had a lovely time. Thank you all so much for the lovely wishes. We are able to enjoy the whenever it is out, so here is hoping for more sunny days.
Grieving for your children who are still alive is unthinkable, says Mandy Kelly as search goes on for sons after custody victory in Egypt

Dundalk woman (37) has not seen her sons, Zayn (5) and Kareem (3), since 2022

Mandy Kelly with photos of her children Zayn (5) and Kareem (3)

Catherine Fegan Wed 7 Aug 2024 at 03:30

An Irish mother is desperately trying to find her two missing children in Egypt after she was granted full custody of the boys by authorities there.
If I dont start treatment soon, I will die  kidney patients plea to Taoiseach Simon Harris

Diane Masterson needs to be housed beside the hospital where she is being treated, but rents are too expensive

Diane Masterson needs to be living close to St James's Hospital in Dublin so she can get the treatment she needs

Arlene Harris Wed 7 Aug 2024 at 03:30

A woman with stage-five kidney failure has told of her pressing need to find a centrally located home in Dublin that is close to a hospital.
PSNI has no doubt there is paramilitary element in latest Belfast disorder

The police have confirmed six people have been arrested  including three teenage boys  after they said race-related hate crimes and disorder spread across Belfast on Tuesday evening.

There was disorder in north Belfast  including a car being rammed into an estate agents and masked men kicking in residents front doors.

At around 8.45pm, it was reported to police that a car was hijacked by a group of masked men on Fingal Street.

The vehicle was driven at the front of an estate agents on Woodvale Road, causing minimal damage to the building, according to the PSNI.

Police said officers were immediately deployed to the scene when it was reported, just after 9.25pm, that masked men were smashing windows in the Rathlin Street area.

A police helicopter was also circled the scene.

Crowds gathered in the streets and it's understood that last night local bus services had been suspended in the area.

In a separate incident on the Falls Road a boy was also assaulted after eggs had been thrown at a shop and staff racially abused.

There were also bins set alight in east Belfast which blocked a road and caused traffic disruption.

In a statement on Wednesday morning the PSNI branded the scenes across the city as a disgrace.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: For a third night, our officers dealt with incidents such as assaults, criminal damage and arson in a challenging environment right across the city.

We received a report at around 6.10pm that a shop on the Falls Road had eggs thrown at it and that staff inside were being racially abused by a group of young people.

"A 15-year-old boy was assaulted and while he received minor facial injuries, I have no doubt this was a terrifying incident for the young victim. When police attended, a large group from the local community were outside to diffuse the situation. A 14-year-old boy was cautioned for offences such as common assault, disorderly behaviour and criminal damage. We will review the evidence gathered and follow this up in the coming days.

Following a report of a group of young people wearing masks in the Shankill area, officers attended and arrested three boys, two aged 16 and one aged 14, on suspicion of riotous behaviour. They remain in police custody at this time.

We also dealt with a report of a hijacking in the Fingal Street area of west Belfast at around 8.45pm, followed by a report that a car was deliberately driven at a business in the Woodvale Road area, causing damage to the shutters. The suspects made off from the scene.

Officers dealt with a number of reports of criminal damage to homes and cars in the Enfield Street, Woodvale Road and Rathlin Street. Three men, aged 26, 28 and 41 years, were arrested in connection to the Rathlin Street report on suspicion of offences including criminal damage and they remain in custody at this time.

There were also reports of bins set on fire in the Newtownards Road area of east Belfast, which caused some traffic disruption for a period of time as the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service dealt with the fire.

Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones continued: The scenes we have been seeing across Belfast over the last few days have been a disgrace and have no place in Northern Ireland.

We continue to engage with the groups affected by this criminality and hope these arrests show the community that we are taking action. Our Public Order Enquiry Team will continue to review footage to attempt to identify those involved, as well as those organising and orchestrating this disorder. As with any investigative process, the Police Service will follow the evidence and present it to the Public Prosecution Service.

I am appealing to the public directly, do not let these criminals hide in your community. Anyone with any information which can help identify any of these individuals should contact Police. We have set up a Major Incident Public Portal for people to submit information, images and footage. Photos and footage, including CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage, can be shared with police through the Major Incident Public Portal at Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).

Paramilitary element suspected in latest disorder in Belfast
There was a moment on the 11-hour flight to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines where I imagined the shame of a Friends-style Mrs Geller, why you cry? comment  like the one Rachel experienced, somehow alone on Ross Greek honeymoon  from resort staff concerned for my single status.
The airline has also announced new winter services to Malta and Seville, following an industrial action expected to cost it 55m

Aer Lingus has announced three new routes for its forthcoming winter schedule - to Malta, the Moroccan city of Marrakech, and Seville in Spain.

Malta will operate three times weekly from October 25, Marrakech three times a week from October 26, and Seville three times weekly from October 25.

The new services will operate from Dublin Airport, and are available to book now with lead-in rates from 49.99 each-way (Seville) and 69.99 (Malta and Marrakech), it said.

The three destinations are already served from Dublin Airport by Ryanair, which also flies to Agadir and recently opened a fourth base in Morocco in Tangiers.

Aer Lingus is also set to increase capacity on several European routes, including Alicante, Athens, Nice, Mallorca, Tenerife and a year-round, four-times weekly service to Faro in Portugal.

It will fly five times a week to Bordeaux this winter, extend its Izmir service to December, and operate double-daily flights from Dublin Airport to Lanzarote on the new schedule.

A new transatlantic service is also set for take off in October  connecting Dublin Airport to Las Vegas in the US.

Jemaa el-Fna, Marrakech. Photo: Francesco Riccardo Lacomino / Getty

The news follows an industrial action by pilots this summer that cost Aer Lingus dearly in terms of bookings, revenue and reputational damage.

The action is expected to cost the airline 55m over several months, according to its latest financial report, before including the impact on forward bookings.

It saw more than 600 flights cancelled over several weeks, before a resolution based on recommendations by the Labour Court.

"Aer Lingus is assessing the implications of the financial damage caused by the dispute in the context of the current competitive environment and the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, it said in the report.

"This will include a review of the weaker parts of the airlines network and its cost base.

It also noted market pressures including a 20pc increase in competitors transatlantic capacity, putting pressure on long-haul economy class revenue.

Aer Lingus and Ryanair have run numerous flash sales this summer, following the industrial action and lower than expected consumer demand for peak season flights.
Everything old is new again. Take the peculiar social happening that is the rise of the trad wife. At its core, this is a retrofitted throwback to simpler times, when wholesome family values and old-school gender roles ruled the roost.

In recent years, a movement has emerged. It aspires to transport the traditions of a bygone era to the modern day, reshaping a womans role in society.

And so, its out with the workplace and in with a child-filled homestead, while the man of the house ventures out into the big bad world.

Why are women signing up to this divisive lifestyle trend? And how has this culture shock found itself entwined in right-wing politics?

Like many social media phenomena, this one originated in the US but seems to be building fans all over the world.

While some observers are happy to admire the homespun lifestyle, other commentators say its a dangerous fantasy that promotes male supremacy and female submission.

Trad wife Estee Williams shares tips to her millions of followers on how to attract a masculine provider. She imparts this advice while wearing a fetching peach two-piece and perfectly applied make-up.

It is truly fascinating to try to understand the appeal of the trad wife and what exactly it is selling. Is it just pumpkin-pie tutorials and nicely-shot TikTok clips, or is there something more sinister at play?

Today on the Indo Daily, Ellen Coyne is joined by Aoife Barry, author of Social Capital: Life Online in the Shadow of Irelands Tech Boom, as they put the trad wife phenomenon under the microscope.
Cavan County Council's decision to approve the construction of almost 80 new houses in Kingscourt have been overturned by An Bord Pleanala.

An Bord Pleanala has overturned plans from planning officials in Cavan to grant planning permission for almost 80 new homes on the outskirts of Kingscourt.

Officials from the independent planning appeals body reversed an earlier decision taken by local authority chiefs last month to approve planning for 76 houses at Dun Na Carraige, Kingscourt, Co. Cavan.

Dublin based firm Destrina Ltd had set out plans to build a mix of two and three storey homes in a blend of detached, semi-detached and terraced buildings.

The plans had provided for access to the proposed development through the existing Dun Na Carraige estate with 22 homes having access to Dunaree Lane.

The flagged new estate, Destrina planned to build in phases, with the on-site treatment catering for phase one until the towns waste water treatment plant is upgraded by Irish Water.

Cavan County Council approved the plans subject to 31 conditions despite a number of objections from local residents.

Among those included a lengthy submission from Dun Na Carraige Residents Association.

In a letter signed by almost 40 locals, the local body detailed a total of 10 areas upon which the proposed development had raised concerns.

They included anxieties over why a temporary wastewater treatment plant was contained as part of the plans, the already densely populated nature of the area and fears over a lack of parking spaces.

In its ruling, An Bord Pleanala agreed with the doubts raised by local residents over the installation of an interim wastewater treatment system.

In one of two reasons behind its decision to uphold the planning appeal, An Bord Pleanala said the absence of any confirmed timeframe for the upgrade of the plant had made its sanctioning prejudicial to public health.

In a linked and second point associated with its refusal, planning chiefs said they were not satisfied that Destrina had obtained permission from Uisce Eireann to connect the temporary wastewater treatment system to the public sewer network in accordance with the Cavan County Development Plan (2022-2028).
CSO data has revealed how many people died due to Covid-19 in Cork in 2021

Covid caused a total of 407 deaths across the 15 LEAs of Cork county and city in 2021.

Covid-19 caused the deaths of 61 people in the north Cork region in 2021, according to official figures recently released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

Cases of Covid that were both identified and unidentified by laboratory testing caused the deaths of 21 people in Mallow Local Electoral Area (LEA), 21 people in Fermoy LEA and 19 people in Kanturk LEA in 2021.

CSO figures show that Covid was the cause of death of 21 people in Macroom LEA during 2021, which was the second year of the coronavirus epidemic.

The impact of these deaths on each community is shown when this number is taken as a proportion of the local population.

According to the CSO, 72.2 people per 100,000 of population died due to Covid-19 in the Kanturk area. In the Mallow region, 65 people per 100,000 of population died and in the Fermoy area 52.3 people per 100,000 of population died due to the virus.

In Macroom, Covid-19 was the cause of death of 53.7 people per 100,000 of population.

The rate of deaths caused by the virus in Kanturk and Mallow were above the national rate of Covid-related deaths of 60.2 people per 100,000 of population.

LEAs in Cork city had the most deaths caused by Covid in the county. Cork City North West had 58 deaths attributed to the virus and also had over double the national rate of deaths per 100,000 of population at 129.

Skibbereen-West Cork had the least amount of Covid deaths (8) and the lowest rate per 100,000 of population (24.5).

Covid caused a total of 407 deaths across the 15 LEAs of Cork county and city in 2021.
A TD for the area welcomed the grants earlier this week

Kanturk Trade Union Hall will receive 58,215 for repairs and an upgrade under the Community Recognition Fund.

A Cork North-West TD has welcomed funding that will support projects for communities in the region.

Michael Moynihan TD confirmed that four projects in Cork North-West will receive grants from the Community Recognition Fund, which will support vital projects and facilities, enhancing their communities in the future.

Deputy Moynihan said Buttevant Playground will receive 100,000 and Millstreet Community School will receive 72,000 for the upgrade of changing rooms.

Newmarket Afterschools & Community Training Facility will receive 85,000 for its refurbishment while Kanturk Trade Union Hall has been granted 58,215 for repairs and its upgrade.
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 Dublin 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 defendants attempt to be 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 11.20pm.

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 and 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 him with her phone while she was still on a 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.

The court heard claims the accused originally maintained he was from Syria and had come to Ireland two weeks prior 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.
Sculptor Brendan ONeill and his wife Susan pictured after the unveiling. Photo: Brian Farrell.

Sculptor Brendan O'Neill and his wife Susan pictured after the unveiling with their children, grandchildren and extended family who travelled from the USA for the unveiling. Photo: Brian Farrell

A life-size bronze sculpture titled 'The Gift' which commemorates the generous aid provided by the Choctaw Nation to Ireland during the Famine has been unveiled outside the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park, Roscommon.

Esteemed American sculptor Brendan ONeill, based in Maryland, USA, sculpted 'The Gift' which is a replica of his original piece displayed at the Choctaw Cultural Centre in Oklahoma.

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The sculpture, generously donated by the ONeill Family, is now permanently installed in the courtyard adjacent to Irelands National Famine Museum, which offers insights into one of the most significant periods in Irish history.

The poignant artwork, measuring 29 inches tall and 41 inches wide, depicts an elderly Choctaw woman, symbolising the matriarchal structure of the Choctaw society, and a younger Choctaw man, embracing her in a gesture of support and protection.

Together, they extend a hand of friendship to the Irish people.

The woman holds an "ampo," or eating bowl, symbolising sustenance and nourishment.

Sculptor Brendan ONeill was in Roscommon on Tuesday for the unveiling. Photo: Brian Farrell

Brendan ONeill has created numerous bronze sculptures for various institutions, including the State of Maryland, Indiana University, schools, Native American reservations, and cultural centres.

Mr ONeills work is characterised by its profound storytelling and historical significance, capturing the essence of the human spirit and heritage.

The sculpture's period clothing, hairstyle, facial features, and native symbols were meticulously crafted with guidance from the Choctaw Cultural Centres Curator, Claire Young.

Reflecting on the inspiration for The Gift, Mr ONeill said, Given my ancestral ONeill Irish roots and my interest in Native American history and culture, I was naturally struck by the significance of the Choctaw Nation's gift to the Irish during An Gorta Mor in 1847.

"I reached out to the Choctaw Elders and offered to commemorate that gift with a bronze sculpture, which I sculpted over a two-year period and delivered to the Choctaw Cultural Centre, in September 2023.

"The ONeill Family is delighted to donate a copy of this sculpture to The Irish Heritage Trust for permanent display at the National Famine Museum in Ireland, said Mr ONeill.

John ODriscoll, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager at Strokestown Park &; the NationalFamine Museum and Sculptor Brendan O'Neill get a quick preview before unveiling the sculpture. Photo: Brian Farrell

Up until the 1830s, the Native American Choctaw had their traditional lands in Mississippi in the rich southeastern part of the United States.

The Indian Removal Act of 1830 looked to forcibly clear them from these lands and resettle them in what is now Oklahoma.

Most Choctaws took the journey which became known as the Trail of Tears and many thousands died on the trail.

When Ireland was deep in the throes of the Great Famine in 1847, the international call for aid for the starving Irish was heard by the Choctaw.

These people, who had no connection with Ireland and were themselves impoverished and marginalised, gave generously to the cause of Irish famine relief.

This remarkable selfless act from people who were themselves still suffering following their displacement has since been honoured and remains a great symbol of the humanity of giving to those in greater need.

It has created a lasting friendship between the two nations.

The sculpture is now prominently displayed beside entrance to the National Famine Museum.

John ODriscoll, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager at Strokestown Park & the National Famine Museum said it is an honour to receive the historically significant sculpture.

This is a fitting location for this meaningful artwork, offering visitors a space for, and appreciation of the historical bond between the Choctaw Nation and the Irish people before entering the Museum, which offers a deeply moving account of the Great Irish Famine, he said.

Ger Aherne, Chairman of the Irish Heritage Trust which cares for and manages the National Famine Museum | Strokestown Park said the sculpture is a profoundly moving reflection on the Choctaw Nation's gift to Ireland during the Great Hunger.

"Preserving our history and sharing it with as many people as possible is a core mission of the Irish Heritage Trust.

"It is a privilege to welcome The Gift for permanent display, and to provide a meaningful context for our visitors to the National Famine Museum, said Mr Aherne.

The redeveloped National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park opened in 2022 offering an enhanced visitor experience with modern exhibitions and interactive displays.

The project was overseen by the Irish Heritage Trust, which has been caring for the property since 2015.

An independent non-profit organisation, the Trust works on the nations behalf to conserve, manage, sustainably develop, and interpret built and natural heritage in Ireland.

The National Famine Museum| Strokestown House Park is open seven days per week, for further details see strokestownpark.ie.
At the launch of Heritage Week 2024 at City Hall, Sligo were (L to R) Frank Moylan (Senior Planner), Ruth Hanniffy (Biodiversity Officer), Dorothy Clarke (Director of Service), Cllr. Declan Bree (Cathaoirleach, Sligo County Council), Martin Lydon (Chief Executive), Cllr. Donal Gilroy (Chair, Sligo Heritage Forum), Wendy Lyons (Vice-Chair, Sligo Heritage Forum). Siobhan Ryan (A/Senior Heritage Officer) and Mark Gaynor (Clerical Officer). Photo Donal Hackett.

National Heritage Week 2024 takes place this year from 17th to 25th August 2024. A colourful range of events and projects celebrating all aspects of our heritage will take place across County Sligo.

Heritage Week is coordinated nationally by The Heritage Council in partnership with the Local Authority Heritage Teams and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. National Heritage Week has become one of Irelands largest cultural events, celebrating Irelands built, natural and cultural heritage and aiming to generate awareness, appreciation and preservation of our wonderful heritage resource.

The theme for National Heritage Week this year is Connections, Routes & Networks and invites us all to explore the links between heritage, people and communities, to look at what brings us together and what connects us.

National Heritage Week will also see the continued celebration of themed heritage days, when project organisers can develop specific themed activities.

On Wild Child Day, The Heritage Council encourages kids and families to make the most of the outdoors to explore the heritage in their locality and beyond. This years Wild Child Day will take place on Saturday, 24th August.

Water Heritage Day will take place on Sunday, 25th August as a collaboration between The Heritage Council and the Local Authority Waters Programme. As an island nation, our history and heritage have been shaped by the sea and the great Irish rivers, lakes and wetlands. Water Heritage Day will highlight projects that celebrate water and our connections with it.

Its not too late to get involved in Heritage Week 2024. Events and completed digital projects can still be uploaded via the organisers portal at www.heritageweek.ie right up to the final day on Sunday 25th August. For those creating in-person events, you are encouraged to register your event as soon as possible to allow time for promotion of the event. For more details and inspiration see www.heritageweek.ie.

Launching National Heritage Week in Sligo, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr. Declan Bree outlined:

We are encouraging everyone to get involved and to support the efforts of the many individuals and groups who have organised events for National Heritage Week in County Sligo.

The success of Heritage Week is wholly dependent on all the event organisers across the county, who are enthusiastic, committed and volunteer their time in order to make Heritage Week in Sligo the great success it is.

Without their interest, hard work and voluntary commitment this week would not be possible.

Cllr. Donal Gilroy, Chair of Sligo Heritage Forum added:

Heritage Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate and share the best of Sligos built, natural and cultural heritage, whether it is attending a talk, going for a guided walk or visiting a local heritage site.

This is just the beginning though. As most of the Heritage sites celebrated during Heritage Week are open all year-round. The museums of the County, many built heritage sites and wildlife areas are all there to be explored at any time.
Sligo link deferred, West partially boosted in All-Island Rail Review Report

Expansion of the rail network to include Sligo gets knocked on the head in all island strategic rail review report which states low population density didnt justify rail expansion in much of the Western region before 2050 an outcome not unheard of before in the West as Paul Deering reports

Collooney Station, County Sligo on the disused section of the WRC.

Paul Deering Sligo Champion Wed 7 Aug 2024 at 07:00

There was mixed news for the West from the publication of All Island Rail Review Report.
Oleksandra Sydorenko, who fled the war with her newborn son, fears her much-needed creche could close, reports tom galvin

A Ukrainian woman who relocated to Ireland with her family two years ago, has continued to run the creche which she founded in Kyiv, fearing if the day care centre goes under, it will leave the parents and children who depend on it literally out in the cold this winter.

Mother-of-two Oleksandra Sydorenko  who has a busy role with the Ukrainian Community Centre for Bray and north Wicklow, while also managing the running of the creche remotely  has launched an appeal to raise funds for a generator to ensure she can keep the doors of her creche open this winter.

Even with the ongoing conflict, many families in Kyiv need a safe, warm place for their kids, she wrote on the Gofundme page. Right now, power outages last 6-8 hours at a time, and its scary to imagine what winter will be like, with temperatures dropping to -10C.

We need a generator of at least 20 kW to keep our 25 kids and four teachers safe and warm. The cost of the generator and installation is 450,000 UAH (about 10,200), which we cant afford alone.

Oleksandra said the creche was a huge part of her life and cannot imagine closing it now when it is a vital facility for the families who still use it.

The situation with childcare has become critical in the war-torn country, and is an aspect of life for those who remain there that people tend to forget. And despite her busy role working with the Ukrainian community in Wicklow, Oleksandra feels the responsibility is on her shoulders to keep the Kyiv centre open, given she founded it. In fact, she founded two centres, but was forced to close one of them.

The struggle for families in Ukraine to find day care for their children has been compounded by something of a brain drain among qualified staff, as so many fled the war, leaving it difficult for those centres still open to find suitable employees.

Oleksandra describes her creche, called Sova Sova, as an amazing place. She shared a gallery of pictures of the staff and children because I want people to feel the vibes of this place because its really, really cool.

I think that we try to change the approach of parenting and raising children, because, for example, in Ireland, how the creches work and the approach to raising children is quite different. We are trying to be the same and we need to change our Soviet Union ways in teaching children. And this is what we do in this creche. We are very modern and we try to learn different approaches.

Most parents do work, because its just impossible not to work now in Ukraine, Oleksandra explained. And I see just maybe a few options, the first option is to find another creche. But over the last few years, lots of creches were closed. Before the war, I had two creches, and I just could not continue with the second one because it was a very big creche and the expenses were extremely big. It was the same situation with other creches in our region, so there are not so many of them.

If we close, parents would try to find another creche, or a childminder, but that is very challenging. There are not so many qualified people. Sometimes there is a very risky week, and lots of missiles, and then people decide, okay, we will go abroad.

Or even now, I face a situation that one of my tutors, she decided to go to the west of Ukraine, because her husband, he is in the army, and he cannot afford to live in Kyiv.

The first time when I advertised this position, I didnt have any responses for one month. Before the war, there were lots of responses, and it was very easy to find people. Now, even if I find this person, it doesnt mean that this person would stay for a long time. Because all the people are under stress, and they make the decisions, sometimes, just according to the news.

Oleksandra said the running of the creche is something that is approached on a day by day basis, with unforeseen circumstances  missiles mostly  dictating the order of the day.

She has a staff of very good teachers, with whom she maintains contact and can trust to keep things running on the ground.

I try just to solve huge problems, she said. For example, now this is a challenge with electricity and a generator. Then, there was a huge attack, like the missiles fell down not far from our creche. So I try to be involved in these big problems, because all other routine problems, my tutors are solving every day. So thats why I have time for a full-time employment in Bray.

The creche caters for a maximum of 26 children in two groups. But before the war it was able to cater for a lot more. Families fled, their children with them, but those that remained needed care, and the staff needed to be paid, which adds another layer of pressure.

Now there are around 20 children, it depends on the month, because during summer time, children sometimes have the possibility to go to the villages, to their grandparents. Thats why its not a very stable period of time. But I hope that from September, it will be more stable.

Its a small business, so it means payments for the creche covers the salaries and the rent. In an ideal world, it should cover all the costs, but sometimes there are just unexpected, huge amounts of expenses, like this generator. Its just impossible to earn that because its a really small business. The government doesnt pay, its just parents who pay for their children.

While Oleksandra needs the generator to keep the lights on, the implications of being without one would impact the other residents, placing even more of a burden on her shoulders and her conscience.

The creche is in the building where other people also live, and it gives them the opportunity also to charge their phones, to have hot water. So, I understand that solving the problem with the creche, I can help also people who live in the same building, she said.

The decision to leave the creche and the children behind when she left in July 2022 cant have been an easy one. Severing that connection to something she is so attached to, if the worst happens, clearly weighs heavily on her mind.

It was very hard for me to make that decision, because I had a very happy life in Kyiv. I gave birth to my son just two months before the war started. I had my small business, I had everything to be happy.

Thats why it was very hard for me to change it, and to decide to go to a safe country, probably because of my child, because he was so small, and I didnt know what would happen next.

You literally could see the missiles and you could hear it around your house. Especially in the beginning, and it was just a quick decision. We decided, okay, we just need to go.

In the beginning, when we moved to Ireland, we lived in Coolnagreina (community hub managed by Tiglin in Greystones). But then we found work, and we tried to do our best in order not to depend on the country.

Now we rent the house, and we have work and we try to be integrated into the society. But at the same time, all these dreams, all my life, its still there. My mother, my grandmother, theyre still in Kyiv.

The Sova Sova creche has raised just 269 of a 10,000 target, something Oleksandra concedes is another difficult challenge.

Its hard for me to believe that I can reach this goal, she said. But I decided, okay, I just need to do everything I can.

You can donate to the Help Us Keep Ukrainian Kids Warm This Winter campaign on gofundme.com/f/kinderwatt-powering-warmth-for-ukrainian-kids
Comedian Al Porter is lined up for his first return to panto since taking several years off following allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour.

The 31-year-old is lined up to star in late-night panto Tinderella in Dublins Olympia theatre.

The Tallaght man will have one of the lead three roles, starring as Buttons.

Joining him will be sidekicks Ryan Andrews (Fair Citys Sean) as Zippers, and drag queen Davina Devine as Fairy Godmother.

A large supporting cast will help out at the show on December 30, including Eurovision winner Linda Martin, actor Eric Lalor, comedian Karl Spain and TV presenter James Patrice, with tickets priced from 29.

Al Porter

This will be Porters first appearance in panto since he starred in the Olympias regular family performances up until 2016.

Mrs Browns Boys star Rory Cowan replaced Porter in the role as the panto dame in Polly and the Beanstalk in 2017 after the comedian resigned in the wake controversy.

The comedian, whose real name is Alan Kavanagh, continued to co-write the Olympia panto with producer Stuart OConnor.

Porter had been accused of various acts of sexual misconduct, including one at St Patricks University Hospital.

However, two subsequent investigations ultimately found no evidence of sexual assault.

Gardai also investigated an sexual assault allegation made by a male in his late teens in 2016.

But in November 2019, it emerged that no charges were to be brought against the comic.

He quit his high-profile radio slot with Today FM in November 2017 amid a furore over unproven allegations made on social media, while then TV3 shelved several episodes of Blind Date he recorded.

Porter has played venues nationwide including Dublins Vicar Street and the Laughter Lounge since his comedy return.

Two years ago he issued his first public statement on the controversy.

Hi everyone, it's been a while. About five years ago I kind of disappeared. If you remember me and know about how my life changed beyond all recognition, youll have heard and read about it, but this will be the first time youre hearing from me, he said.

I have a quiet life these days, very different to the future I had once imagined. Back then, I was a 24-year- old comedian with an exciting road ahead, doing the work I loved.

"As I write this, I am at the kitchen table of my parents house, where I live, in Tallaght. Im fit and healthy and a long-time sober.

Ive learned that people are a lot kinder in person than they are on a keyboard. Whenever I'm out, Im approached by people asking me 'Whats next for you? Many people also ask, What happened?

Porter, addressing his fans on his official website, then summarises the trauma he experienced.

In November 2017, a series of tweets making allegations against me snowballed into newspaper articles, and eventually more.

"I took these issues in my personal life very seriously and I decided to walk away from all my work commitments as I couldnt possibly keep working and deal with everything else too.

"From the age of 19, my life had been a runaway train, I had been burning the candle at both ends, leaving me overwhelmed and unable to cope, he said.

At the time all I wanted to do was go home to my family, but I couldnt even do that as the media were outside my Mam and Dads house. In the space of 48 hours, it felt like Id lost everything.

Through a newspaper article, I learned there was a complaint of sexual assault against me made to the gardai. I immediately and repeatedly contacted the gardai, but it was a year before I was told what the accusation actually was, which I denied.

"It was another year before the Director of Public Prosecutions withdrew the charge against me. I wouldnt wish those two years on anyone.

In that time, I've had death threats, funny mocked up headlines saying I've committed suicide, that kind of thing. this is actually something my family and I have had to get used to.

He added: When I was 21, I did a charity radio show at St Patricks Hospital in a glass walled studio in the foyer.

"In 2017, a complaint was made to the hospital by a former service user.

"Following investigation, it was concluded that when we posed for a requested photograph outside as I was leaving, I kissed this person on the cheek, while putting my hand on his chest.

That was uninvited and made him feel uncomfortable. I accept this and for that I was and still am genuinely sorry.

This all began with people tweeting about me. Some of these people were from the comedy scene in Ireland, which is very small and social, and I considered them good friends.

"Not only that, these were guys I looked up to. I was just 19 when we all met, and they were the older, more experienced comics.

"They said publicly that I had been inappropriate with them back then, some said that they laughed at the time, but they felt uncomfortable. I remember events differently and we remained in contact for years, messaging online and working and socialising together in person.

"Although I started getting higher billing, and some bigger gigs, I was never in a position of power over anyone, despite what some people may have written.
Blake Lively attends the world premiere of It Ends With Us (Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)

US actress Blake Lively arrived at the premiere of her upcoming film It Ends With Us wearing a dress in homage to ultimate queen Britney Spears.

Lively appeared on the pink carpet at the AMC Lincoln Square Theatre in a drizzling New York City, reviving Spears 2002 vintage Versace butterfly dress adorned with sequin flowers.

The ultimate queen who made us all want to sparkle and write and share our stories, Lively said on her Instagram story, sharing a picture of Spears in the dress.

Britney, us millennials all have a story of a moment, or of years that you made us want to shine and inspire awe, with strength, and joy and immensely hard work.

Thank you for your example and your contribution to women telling their stories. So excited about your biopic and all you have to come.

Blake Lively attends the world premiere of It Ends With Us (Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)

It comes after it was reported Spears 2023 hit memoir The Woman In Me is set to be adapted for the big screen.

Lively appeared at the New York premiere alongside her It Ends With Us co-stars Justin Baldoni and Brandon Sklenar.

Justin Baldoni attends the world premiere of It Ends With Us (Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)

Based on the best-selling novel by Colleen Hoover, the film tells the story of Lily Bloom (Lively) as she falls in love with Ryle Kincaid (Baldoni) before reconnecting with her first love Atlas Corrigan (Sklenar).

The premiere also saw a Deadpool & Wolverine reunion for stars Ryan Reynolds  who is married to Lively  and Hugh Jackman.

Lively and Reynolds, who married in 2012, previously made a joint appearance on the red carpet for the world premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine in New York in July.

Hugh Jackman, Blake Lively, and Ryan Reynolds attend the world premiere of It Ends With Us (Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)

During an interview with Extra TV, Lively appeared concerned that her husband was getting soaking wet in the rain as the pink carpet appeared to flood with excess water.

Speaking about the Spears dress, she added: This dress meant so much to me because of what she meant to me  she was just somebody who represented love and beauty and youth and hard work and determination and strength and she was in touch with her sexuality and her delicacy and she just sort of represented it all.

Her telling her own story the way she did and the way she is about to with her biopicAnd so when this dress was available I was like yes, I need it and Ive had it for almost a year now and Ive been saving it for this.
Aidan O'Shea and Kristin McKenzie Vass have arrived in Kerry for their wedding

Mayo GAA star Aidan OShea and his bride-to-be Kristin McKenzie Vass have arrived in Kerry for their wedding.

The couple are set to get married in Kristins home county on Friday, August 9, surrounded by friends and family.

Kristin, a model and business consultant at Grant Thornton, took to her Instagram Stories this week to announce that wedding bells were on the way.

She then shared a clip of her and her fiance in the car, which was full to the brim, accompanied by Diana Ross song Im Coming Out as they finally headed off to their wedding venue.

Aidan O'Shea and Kristin McKenzie Vass have arrived in Kerry for their wedding

Kerry here we come, she wrote, adding bride and groom emojis.

And Kristins pals made sure to spoil her ahead of her nuptials as she shared a video of a bouquet of flowers and a wedding of the year gift bag left on her bed.

The goodies lay beside a personalised balloon with the words Kristin and Aidans wedding day  9th August 2024 printed on the front while the Kerry and Mayo crests were branded on the back.

Aidan and Kristin announced their engagement on Instagram last summer with a sweet photo outside Ashford Castle in Cong, Co Mayo.

Kristin flaunted her new diamond for the snap as she wrote: Its happening. Big fat YES from me @aidoxi #engaged".

According to Aidan, his other half didnt suspect a thing when it came to him getting down on one knee.

"Kristin told me that I didnt give it away and that I didnt look too nervous about it, he told RSVP Live.

"I wanted to make sure that Kristin didnt cop the photographer I hired to capture the moment before I asked the question. That was my only concern, so I had to time it nicely."

Aidan also opened up about how he and Kristin met randomly six years ago.

"We met randomly in Dublin in 2017. We kept in touch after that and then she moved to London.

"I visited her a few times and then one thing led to another. Thats how it panned out for us and were still together so something must have gone right."

Back in May, Kristin celebrated her last rodeo with a boat party in Barcelona to celebrate her Spanish hen.

The bride-to-be shared photos of the sun-blissed session on the boat out at sea where she appeared all in white and held aloft by a burly sailor.

In earlier pictures the girls, including fellow GAA wife Orla Lorenza, could be seen hanging at the airport with Kirstin embracing the bridal look in a head-to-toe white ensemble.
Irish actor and family man sets up The Colin Farrell Foundation charity in sons honour

James is about to turn 21 so Colin is trying to give him independence while also maintaining the necessary care

Colin and his other son Henry snapped on the red carpet of the Oscars in 2023

James turns 21 next month so Colin is setting up a Charity to help him live as full a life as possible

Colin is completely besotted with James and wants him to have as complete a life as possible

Colin is trying to ensure James has the fullest life possible now that he is turning 21

COLIN Farrell has fond and vivid memories of being on the pitch at Croke Park for the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics in 2003.

He proudly led a group of athletes into the stadium as towns and villages across Ireland opened their homes and their hearts to athletes with special needs from all over the world.

We were at our best, the Penguin actor recalls now. The whole country came together. Every pub had a bingo night for a local athlete. Every place was putting on something and members of our society who in the 1950s and 60s were kept at home more  all of a sudden they were the stars of the story. Theres nowhere in the world that Ive experienced anything like it.

Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th August 2024

Colin didnt know it then, but within a matter of months, he would become the parent of a child with special needs. James was born with Angelman syndrome, a rare condition characterised by developmental delay, problems with speech and balance and, in some cases, seizures.

It means that Jamess achievements and the many milestones he has reached have been hard earned and greatly celebrated  and next month, the young man will mark a major birthday.

James is about to turn 21 so Colin is trying to give him independence while also maintaining the necessary care

Hell be 21 in September  which is just mad  and he's doing great, says the actor. He's cheeky and he's bold and he's bright, and he knows exactly what he wants.

Hes strong now  hes six foot. He was always like a beanpole, but he's filled out a bit, got a lovely big Ronnie (moustache) on him. He looks like Tom Selleck! He's brilliant  he's just a gorgeous young man, you know. And he's in a really good place, and I'm delighted that he's ready to get out in the world now and begin to be able to spread his wings and be a part of programmes that we (Colin and Jamess mother, Kim Bordenave) are trying to figure out.

Jamess parents see him as a young man with his own life who wants to be out and about. But they are aware that this will bring challenges, as Jamess condition means that he needs supported care. His mother and I are trying to think about the next stage of his life. He has earned autonomy, and he has earned having a greater sense of community and a greater sense of freedom, says Colin. He shows us that, and he loves people, and he wants to be active in the community and all, but there's just very, very little there.

As the family seeks suitable and supported independent living for James, they have become aware of the dearth of such home care for young adults with intellectual disabilities. Inspired by James and out of a desire to do what he can to better the lives of the many other families facing similar challenges, the actor has decided to establish The Colin Farrell Foundation.

James sporting a 'Ronnie' as he continues to flourish

The newly launched, not-for-profit organisation aims to initiate and promote progressive programmes and policies to improve and enhance the lives of individuals living with any form of intellectual disability. The foundation will also work with other intellectual disability (ID) policy advocates in campaigning for change at US governmental level.

Colin will lead the foundation, managed by a board of directors and an advisory board. They are comprised of highly experienced and successful professionals in various fields. Paula Evans, who previously founded The Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST), will be CEO.

Among the foundations goals is to raise awareness of the funding and housing crises affecting the ID community. As well as fundraising and awareness campaigns, the foundation aims to create a respite retreat for people living with any form of ID and their families. It will be called Solas, from the Irish word for light.

The foundations work will happen initially in California, where Colin and his family live and work, but his ultimate dream would be to replicate such advocacy and support services across the US and internationally  including in Ireland.

Colin at the Special Olympics in LA in 2015

I've had 20 years to think about the struggles of a child with special needs, since James came into my world, says Colin. It's very much been localised for me, of course, personalised. It's very much been about James, about my son.

Still, the communities he has met through Special Olympics, through FAST, and through his philanthropic work, convinces him that the challenges facing people with ID and their loved ones are universal.

Mostly, the community that I've been a part of has been the Angelman syndrome community, which is very vocal and very supportive. I've met hundreds of families who care for and love and struggle with trying to find the resources they need. I've met mothers and fathers, grandparents and siblings, and talked to them about their experiences. And I've met the young men and the young women of these families going back 14,15 years now.

Colin is completely besotted with James and wants him to have as complete a life as possible

Ive been so blessed doing what I do for a living and having the career that Ive had over the last 25 years. As you can well imagine, James has benefited a lot from the doctors I can get on the phone easier than most people, from the money I have to pay for certain therapeutic interventions: speech therapists and occupational therapists and physical therapists. And if James needs an iPad for communication, or if he needs a stander to work on his gait, its there. Im that lucky, its gotten for him. Yet, Im finding that James is a young adult now, and his mother and I are trying to think about the next stage of his life.

Im 48 and James is 20, and Henry (Jamess younger brother) is 14. I have a little bit more space in my own life, in my own head. I feel the career thing, the acting thing, as much as Im enjoying it and probably loving it more than ever, its clear to me that it is incredibly secondary, when I think of how important the present and the future of both my sons are to me, adds Colin.

If I have the struggles that Im having with this kind of stuff, you can imagine a lot of the families I've met. Some of them have an income of 50 grand a year, and they have four children, and two of them have Angelman syndrome. How are they going to be able to provide or find somewhere that's loving and caring and clean and active to allow their young adults to have a rich and meaningful connected to the community life? I realised it was time, he says of establishing the foundation. This is something that means the world to me now.

I'm blessed to have a bunch of good people on the board. We've a scientist, a lawyer, humanitarians  just really bright, really hungry, decent people whose hearts are in the right place and who want to make a change.

Like Colin, the foundations CEO has lived experience of raising a young adult with an intellectual disability. Paula Evanss daughter, Ainsley, was born with Angelman syndrome, and she made contact with the Irish actor when he first spoke publicly about how James had special needs.

We had a lovely chat about our kids. And it wasn't long after that that I started the FAST organisation, says Paula, adding that the annual event they held in Chicago showed her that many of the issues facing families were universal.

We grew the community beyond my wildest dreams, because Angelman was rare. Everyone came from all over. They came from all over the world  many from Ireland. Individuals with intellectual disability are facing multiple crises and those are funding, housing, and workforce  it's really those three issues, she adds.

Colin with his new Foundation boss Paula Evans

Individuals with intellectual disability are stuck home with mom and dad, waiting sometimes decades for services that they could live meaningful, full lives within their communities. We have a broad mission statement and I have no doubt we're going to start tackling this really significant problem.

I don't think many people are aware of the crises that people with intellectual disability face. So (we are) shining a big light on this, and just raising awareness so that everyday people understand.

I think there's nobody better suited than Colin to help bring this to the forefront, to raise that awareness. Not only does he walk the walk, he talks the talk, he lives this every day as a child that has intellectual disability, and he knows what the challenges are.

He can speak about it in such an authentic way to really educate the public as to what the challenges are that these individuals face. He is so passionate about this - Im excited to see what we're going to be able to do.

Colin adores James and has finally opened up his family album to the world

Colin has been motivated by the many stories hes heard of parents who struggle to care for their children and to access the support services they need. They're constantly advocating on behalf of their child to get what their child justifiably should have in their lives, in the form of education, in the form of community inclusion.

This is why his plans include Camp Solas, which he named after the Irish word for light. He is establishing it to provide badly needed respite services for people with ID and their families.

It would be open for families, for parents and siblings of a child with special needs. They would come and the kids would have activities throughout the day. The parents would be able to have their own time and space, because it's very hard. Parents of children with special needs don't really go on holidays too much. They certainly wouldnt go on holidays on their own - of course they bring their children. Whatever joy they may experience on the holiday, whatever craic they have, it's also a lot of work. And so the idea is of giving parents a little bit of respite while the family would go together to the camp.

The pair have forged an incredible bond

The foundation, he says, will enable fundraising, awareness and conversations about how best to serve the people who avail of its services. But Farrell also has a greater ambition that he hopes could bring about broader and real systemic change.

Among the foundations goals is to join other ID policy advocates in campaigning for national US legislators to provide badly needed funding and reform.

The ultimate goal would be, within a couple of years, to end up in Washington and get a hearing and try and get some money allocated for exactly what we're talking about - not summer camps, but for community centres where parents can bring their young adults, and also for more independent living that will obviously have around-the-clock support and care, and what that's going to look like. So there's loads to do, he says.

The actor adds that in many countries in the world, its those who cant do for themselves who get short shrift. It's children who are sick, and it's people later in their years in old age. So much more attention should be placed on making sure that children and those who are older of age, who need more care, get more support.

Colin is trying to ensure James has the fullest life possible now that he is turning 21

And there's loads of great work, by the way. I'm not splitting the atom here now by saying what I'm saying. There are thousands of people in the world that are fighting for what I'm suggesting here. It's just my time to get in the fight.

The area of major interest for me, of course, is because of James's birth and what he's meant to me in my life and the community that I've been afforded the opportunity to be a part of that is so loving and so supportive.

When James was four, Colin first spoke publicly of his son being born with Angelman syndrome. Just a few weeks earlier, James took his first steps unaided, a moment that brought great joy to his family.

Most kids are walking somewhere around one, one and a half. So what seem like minor steps are huge successes, and we all celebrate each other's successes, says Colin.

There's so much chance involved in life. Theres beyond measurable chance that has me talking to you now from a hotel in Macau, doing my third film in the last 12 months, and having all the good fortune that I've had in my life. You couldn't work hard enough to have the fortune that I've had. I love my work, and I apply myself to it as best I can. But it's chance - its so much chance.

The fact that I have a bit of a voice, I want to use it to see if we can promote change and get some systemic change. Work to get some legislative change that will provide greater support for our communities, and not just Angelman syndrome, but communities of all children (with ID) as they grow up to be adults.

We need to have a world and a place where they are involved and included and have meaningful lives, and it's just harder now for families than it should be. So that's why we're doing this.

When Colin first spoke publicly about Jamess Angelman syndrome diagnosis in 2007  just days after his four-year-old boy had taken his first steps - the actor said he would do whatever he could to help James realise his potential and to be happy.

Its like any parent, he said at that time. What I want to do for my son is make sure he has the opportunity to reach his own individual potential, and that hes as happy as can be. Ill do whatever I can do, stay in his way or get out of his way, to see that realised.

As James approaches his 21st birthday, his dad reflects on those words. Its time to kind of get out of Jamess way a little bit, for the first time in my life, he says.

I do believe fully, in every cell of my being, that's what he wants, and that's what he's earned, that's what he's worked so hard all these years for in his socialisation and his schooling, his at-home work and physical therapy and occupational therapy. All the stuff hes had done with his legs and his walking, so he can have a bigger life.

His lived experiences of raising James and his aspirations for The Colin Farrell Foundations work, unsurprisingly, go hand in hand - and the actor is ready to take the next step in advocating for young adults with ID.

I want to talk about how to help make the lives of our children and young adults with special needs better and to try and see if I can, in any way, help in ensuring that they have opportunities they should have in life.

Instagram: @colinfarrellfoundation Tik-Tok: @colinfarrellfoundation Facebook: Colin Farrell Foundation Website: www.colinfarrellfoundation.org
Bangladeshs president dissolved Parliament yesterday, 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 violence.
A British man was on Wednesday jailed for three years for violent disorder during anti-Muslim riots last week, one of the first sentences from a wave of violence after the killing of three girls in northwest England.
Virgin Atlantic ad banned over Flight 100 sustainable fuel claim

The airline claimed Flight 100 from London to New York would use 100pc sustainable aviation fuel

The ad was banned by the ASA (Handout/PA)

Josie Clarke Wed 7 Aug 2024 at 07:47







A Virgin Atlantic advertisement claiming the airline was the first to fly transatlantic on 100pc sustainable aviation fuel has been banned for misleading consumers.
Son of Norways Crown Princess arrested over alleged attack on woman in Oslo apartment

Marius Borg Hiby (27) is accused of attacking a woman in her twenties psychologically and physically

Marius Borg Hoiby has never held a royal title and stepped back from public life in 2017 when he was 20. Photo: Getty

James Crisp Telegraph.co.uk Wed 7 Aug 2024 at 13:04







The Crown Princess of Norways eldest son has been arrested for an alleged assault forcing his mother to cancel an appearance at the Paris Olympics.
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Safety is our prime concern  Irish travel agents working to help holidaymakers as US braces for Hurricane Milton
Visitors to corn mazes across North America are finding a familiar and joyous figure in the winding labyrinth of tall stalks  Snoopy.

More than 80 farms in the US and Canada have teamed up with Peanuts Worldwide to create Peanuts-themed mazes to celebrate the beloved strips 75th birthday this summer and autumn.
Eight National Highway Projects Sanctioned, Expected to Boost Indias Connectivity

India has approved eight national high-speed road corridor projects spanning 936 km, with an investment of INR 506.55 billion (US$6.03 billion) to enhance logistics efficiency and connectivity.

In August 2024, Indias Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, sanctioned these projects, which include the 6-lane Agra-Gwalior, 4-lane Kharagpur-Moregram, 6-lane Tharad-Deesa-Mehsana-Ahmedabad, 4-lane Ayodhya Ring Road, the Pathalgaon-Gumla section of the Raipur-Ranchi Corridor, and the 6-lane Kanpur Ring Road.

Enhancing traffic capacity and reducing travel time

The sanctioned projects are expected to boost the countrys infrastructure, economy, and employment. The Agra-Gwalior Corridor is expected to double traffic capacity in the region and significantly reduce travel time and logistics costs. The 231 km Kharagpur-Moregram Corridor, developed under Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) at INR 102.47 billion (US$1.2 billion), will quintuple traffic capacity, linking West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and the northeastern states.

Project name Length Mode Cost (value in INR billion) 6-Lane Agra  Gwalior National High-Speed Corridor 88 kms Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) 46.13 (US$549 million) 4-Lane Kharagpur  Moregram National High-Speed Corridor 231 kms Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) 102.47 (US$1.2 billion) 6-Lane Tharad  Deesa  Mehsana  Ahmedabad National High-Speed Corridor 214 kms Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) 105.34 (US$1.25 billion) 4-lane Ayodhya Ring Road 68 kms Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) 39.35 (US$468 million) 4-Lane Section between Pathalgaon and Gumla of Raipur-Ranchi National High-Speed Corridor 137 kms Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) 44.73 (US$532 million) 6-Lane Kanpur Ring Road 47 kms Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) 32.98 (US$392 million) 4-Lane Northern Guwahati Bypass and Widening/Improvement of Existing Guwahati Bypass 121 kms Build Operate Toll (BOT) 57.29 (US$682 million) 8-Lane Elevated Nashik Phata  Khed Corridor near Pune 30 kms Build Operate Toll (BOT) 78.27 (US$932 million)

Source: PIB

There are three models of road infrastructure development in India.

In the EPC model, private entities are responsible only for construction, with the government handling maintenance and ownership.

In the BOT-Annuity model, private companies build, operate, and maintain the roads for a specific period before handing them over to the government, receiving a fixed annuity for their services.

The Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) involves a mix of public and private financing, with the government funding 40 percent of the project and the private developer arranging the remaining 60 percent, including a mix of their own equity and debt.

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Macro-economic view of the sector

India boasts one of the worlds largest road networks, stretching over 5.8 million kilometers. This network includes approximately two percent national highways and three percent state highways, with the remainder consisting of district and rural roads.

In India, roads are the primary mode of transport for both goods and passengers, carrying over 64.5 percent of goods and 90 percent of passenger traffic.

In October 2021, a Model Concessionaire Agreement (MCA) for Multimodal Logistics Parks (MMLPs) under the Bharatmala Pariyojana was finalized. The Bharatmala Pariyojana plans to develop 35 MMLPs with an investment of INR 460 billion (US$5.4 billion), capable of handling 700 million metric tonnes of cargo.

The Bharatmala Pariyojana is an ongoing national road and highway construction project. The project, announced in 2015 to enhance the movement of goods and people, focuses on developing 34,800 km of National Highways through corridor-based development. Key components include economic corridors, inter-corridor and feeder routes, national corridors efficiency improvement, and connectivity roads for borders, ports, and expressways. As of 2024, the scheme has awarded contracts for a total of 26,425 km of highways, with 18,180 km already completed. According to Indias Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, India will soon have a Master Plan for National Highways under the Bharatmala project. The objective of this master plan is to enhance logistics through expressways and high-speed corridors.

India has set a target of becoming a US$5 trillion economy by 2025, and to achieve this vision, it is critical to expand and develop its economic corridors. The road and highway sector makes up about 18 percent of the National Infrastructure Pipeline.

In a year-end review 2023 document, the ministry of road and highways states that India has about 66.71 lakh km of road network, which is the second largest in the world.

National Highways: 1,46,145 km

State Highways: 1,79,535 km

Other Roads: 63,45,403 km

Of the total national highway network, approximately 48,422 km consist of more than four lanes, 84,705 km have two lanes, and 13,000 km have fewer than two lanes. There are 969 national highways across various states. Additionally, the country has highway lighting installed on approximately 25,400 km, including 105 km in Assam.

Challenges and future targets

Despite increasing the pace of national highway expansion, India has also missed several highway construction targets in the past 10 years. During the pandemic-hit FY 2020-21, highway construction reached a peak of 37 km per day, totaling 13,327 km that year. However, subsequent targets have been adjusted downward, with 10,457 km built in FY 2021-22 and 12,349 km in FY 2022-23, falling short of the initial ambitious goals.

In the Union Budget for 2024-25, the budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) remained steady at INR 278 billion (US$3.3 billion), a 3 percent increase from the previous years interim budget of INR 270 billion (US$3.2 billion).

So far, India has fallen short of achieving its target to construct 13,000 km and 13,800 km of highways in 2022-23 and 2023-24, respectively, due to adverse weather, general elections and state elections.

The MoRTH, however, managed to complete 12,349 km of national highways in 2023-24, up from 10,993 km the previous year.

Of the total financial budget announced in July 2024, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) received INR 168 billion (US$2 billion), a 3.9 percent rise from the previous years INR 162 billion (US$1.9 billion). The government has continued its policy of minimal market borrowing for the third consecutive year, relying instead on budgetary support to reduce NHAIs debt. The NHAIs debt, which stood at INR 335 billion (US$3.9 billion) as of March 2024, has grown 14-fold since 2014-15, prompting India to aim for a reduction to INR 100 billion (US$1.19 billion) by 2024-25.

Summary

India has approved eight high-speed road corridor projects totaling 936 km, with an investment of INR 506.55 billion (US$ 6.03 billion), to improve logistics and connectivity. These projects aim to boost traffic capacity, reduce travel time, and enhance economic and employment prospects. Despite expansion efforts, India has missed several highway construction targets. The road and highway sector are crucial to Indias goal of becoming a US$5 trillion economy by 2025.

(US$1 = INR 83.95)
Image credit: Facebook/WazirX

Mumbai: WazirX, along with its infrastructure partner Liminal and other associated entities, is facing a petition with the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) due to a $230 million crypto asset theft.

The petition has been filed by a Supreme Court law intern named Gauransh Vyas on August 5 in Indore, the report said citing details available on the NCLT website.

Sources informed Moneycontrol that the petition, filed on August 5 in Indore, invokes Sections 213(b) and 221 of the Companies Act, 2013. Section 213(b) allows individuals to request an investigation into a company's affairs if there is suspicion of mismanagement, malpractices, or fraudulent activities.

Section 221 enables the petitioner to request the freezing of the company's assets during the inquiry and investigation.

Emails have been sent to all the respondents notifying the same, a source privy to the developments told Moneycontrol.

In addition to WazirX, Liminal, and its directors and founders, the petition also names the Ministry of Home Affairs via the principal secretary, the Ministry of Finance via the principal secretary, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs via the principal secretary, and the Serious Fraud Investigation Office as respondents.

We are aware of the petition filed against us before the NCLT, Indore and we are taking necessary legal action. We strongly deny any and all allegations of fraud. Since it is an ongoing legal proceeding, we cannot discuss the details of the petition, WazirX spokesperson said, according to Moneycontrol.

We will respond as per the prescribed procedure under law before the NCLT. The NCLT will decide the weight of the petition on legal grounds, the spokesperson added.

According to the report, a Liminal spokesperson said, "Liminal's representative was part of the proceedings and has duly appeared before the court. As this matter is now sub judice, we are refraining from making any further comments at this time. However, we will continue to defend our position vigorously."

WazirX filed a first information report (FIR) with the PS Special Cell, PS Lodhi Colony in New Delhi on August 6 regarding the hack.

Background

WazirX, India's largest crypto exchange, hosts accounts and balances for nearly 33 percent of Indian crypto users.

Cybersecurity firm Cyfirma has linked the hack to the Lazarus Group, a state-sponsored hacking collective from North Korea.

The incident has garnered significant international attention, leading the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to urge WazirX to conduct a thorough investigation into the nature of the breach.

Sources informed Moneycontrol that Binance controls a substantial portion of WazirXs revenue and around $80 million worth of WRX tokens, which is complicating WazirX's bailout plans. Both exchanges remain entangled in a legal dispute.
Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/

Former High Commissioner to Bangladesh Veena Sikri has said the current situation in the neighbouring nation is 'worrisome for India'.

Speaking to The Tribune, Sikri did not rule out a foreign hand in the developments in Bangladesh and said students' movement for abolition of quotas in the neighbouring nation had morphed into a political protest with elements of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami getting involved.

She said the first instance of foreign involvement in the current development in Bangladesh was evident during Hasina's recent visit to China.

"I have always been worried about a foreign hand (in the Bangladesh situation). The most recent indicator of this was when Sheikh Hasina's 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 told The Tribune.

"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.

Speaking on the emergence of Jamaat-e-Islami in Bangladeshi politics, she said: " Jamaat-e-Islami's role seems to be a very large one. It forces us to think whether there is a Pakistan-China hand behind development in Bangladesh."

Amid violent protests that left over 100 people dead, former PM Sheikh Hasina was forced to quit and leave the nation on Monday.

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said an interim government, headed by Nobel Laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, will be formed on Thursday.
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".
Scenes of the destruction in Gaza city amid ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Photo by Emad El Byed on Unsplash.

Beijing/IBNS: Amid the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, as many as 14 Palestinian factions, including Fatah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and the terrorist organization Hamas, have agreed to form a government after talks were hosted by Beijing, and analysts believe the Chinese Communist regime is forging closer ties with terrorist groups in the Middle East to expand influence in the region as well as sharpen its anti-US alliance.

Earlier on July 23, following two days of reconciliation, 14 Palestinian factions co-signed a declaration in the Chinese capital of Beijing on ending division and strengthening Palestinian unity and establishing a provisional national reconciliation government in the reconstruction of post-war Gaza, reports said.

While Ismail Haniyeh, a top leader of Hamas, was assassinated last week by an explosive device covertly smuggled into the Tehran guesthouse in Iran where he was staying, Hamas has named Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar as its new chief.

Israel has publicly accused Yahya Sinwar of being the mastermind behind Hamas terror attack against Israel on October 7 last year  though experts say he is likely one of several  making him one of the key targets of its war in Gaza, as reported by CNN.

According to The Diplomat, this initiative by Beijing marked another step in Chinas involvement in West Asian politics, particularly the Israel- Palestine conflict as the meeting culminated in a notable achievement, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announcing an agreement among the Palestinian factions to establish an interim national reconciliation government for post-war Gaza.

The Chinese foreign minister's statements, however, neither provided clarity about the involvement of Hamas, which is not a part of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) in this arrangement, nor specified the immediate consequences of any agreement, reports The Diplomat.

Palestinian factions sign 'Beijing Declaration' on ending division and strengthening Palestinian national unity. Photo credit: Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The discussions, which were attended by top Chinese diplomats, took place amid uncertainty over the future administration of Palestinian lands, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly pledged to eliminate Hamas in retaliation for the groups terrorist attack on its territory on October 7 last year, and Beijing, notably, has not condemned Hamas actions.

The recent Beijing Declaration is a part of ongoing efforts to unite the Palestinian leadership factions; though, unity declarations failed in negotiations earlier, as per reports.

According to The Diplomat, rather than a game-changer for the Palestine conflict, the Beijing Declaration should be viewed as evidence of the Chinese Communist regimes increasing eagerness to position itself as a prominent mediator in West Asian affairs, while this diplomatic push aligns with Beijings broader strategy of expanding its global influence, particularly in regions with significant economic interests.

According to The Epoch Times, this new round of mediation was initiated by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to seek compromises among the Palestinian factions, especially between the rival forces of Hamas and Fatah in the long-standing conflicts in Gaza and the West Bank of the Jordan River.

The CCP hosted the first round of talks between the rivals in April, but it did not yield substantive results, and subsequently, the second round of talks, scheduled for June, was postponed, as per reports.

Wu Zuolai, a United States-based China affairs columnist and political commentator, told The Epoch Times that he believes Beijing is now helping to unite terrorist organizations in a move with significant implications.

Just as it recognizes the Taliban in Afghanistan as the legitimate government, it is expanding its rear [guard] in the Middle East in the same way, Zuolai told The Epoch Times. The CCP is pushing forward a united front with the terrorist forces in the Middle East, in a long-term and sinister plan to confront the US and the Western world."

Since Hamas seized the Gaza Strip in 2007 and expelled Palestinian nationalist and social democratic political party Fatah, Palestinians have been locked in a prolonged war.

On the same day of the announced agreement, Israeli Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz posted on X (formerly Twitter) that Hamas and Fatah signed an agreement in China for joint control of Gaza after the war. Instead of rejecting terrorism, [Fatah leader] Mahmoud Abbas embraces the murderers and rapists of Hamas, revealing his true face.

In reality, this wont happen because Hamass rule will be crushed, and Abbas will be watching Gaza from afar. Israels security will remain solely in Israels hands, Katz's X post read.

According to The Diplomat, this initiative is not Beijings first foray into West Asian politics, particularly concerning the long-standing dispute between Israel and Palestine.

Palestinian factions sign 'Beijing Declaration' in presence of Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi. Photo credit: Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry

China, with an aim to arbitrate between Israel and Palestine and find closure to their conflict, hosted Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) president Mahmoud Abbas for a state visit in June last year, and before that, Beijings effective mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia in March 2023 highlighted its rising capacity to convert economic might into diplomatic influence in West Asia, reports The Diplomat.

Beijings efforts toward Palestinian reconciliation can be understood as a multifaceted strategy to enhance its global standing, expand its geopolitical influence, and safeguard its economic interests in West Asia, reports The Diplomat, adding that this strategy exemplifies the Chinese regimes overarching aspiration to position itself as a conscientious global force.

However, responding to the Chinese-brokered agreement, Matthew Miller, the spokesperson of the US State Department, said in a July 24 press briefing that the department had not yet reviewed the text of the Beijing agreement, reiterating that Hamas is a US-designated terrorist organization, and Washington believes the group should not be involved in the post-war governance of Gaza.

Shi Shan, a senior contributor to the Chinese edition of The Epoch Times, told the US-based media outlet that the Chinese Communist regime is not concerned about regional peace, and on the contrary, it is pulling strings among various forces in the Middle East.

"The CCP is trying to exert influence over terrorist organizations by providing financial assistance or other means and using them to play a role in the CCPs time of need," Shi added.

According to the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), China will see the outcome of the Beijing Declaration as a diplomatic win and a boon for its campaign to project influence in the Middle East and to address issues that it perceives as intractable or ignored under the US-led order, but the reality is that the stakes were very low for Beijing given the current situation in the Middle East.
Photo Courtesy: Muhammad Yunus Instagram page

Nobel Laureate and Grameen Bank founder Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the chief adviser of the interim government, days after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power amid violent anti-government protests which left the nation in turmoil.

The decision came after a meeting on the formation of the interim government between key organisers of the anti-discriminatory movement and President Mohammed Shahabuddin, The Daily Star reported.

The meeting was attended by head of the armed forces.

The political situation of the country became uncertain and a leadership vacuum was created after Hasina resigned and fled to India amid severe anti-government protests in the nation which initially began with students demonstrating across the nation against job quota.

Sheikh Hasina's longtime political rival and BNP chief Khaleda Zia was released from prison on Tuesday.

Following her release, Zia expressed concern over nationwide violence, vandalism and looting of state resources during the demonstrations which have been taking place for weeks.

"Our state's resources are being wasted. This country is ours; we have to build this country," Zia was quoted as saying by Dhaka Tribune.

Meanwhile, bodies of 20 Awami League leaders and associates were found from different parts of the country on Tuesday.

Following the ouster of Hasina, several Hindu temples and houses were attacked by fundamentalists.

Several videos of the incidents have been going viral on the internet where Hindu community members have been targeted.

People were seen looting Hindu shops and markets.

In another act of violence, at least 24 people were burnt alive during an arson attack on an Awami League leader-owned hotel in Jessore city.

Abdul Kadir, an official of Fire Service and Civil Defence Control Room in Khulna, confirmed the deaths to The Daily Star.

The hotel was owned by District Awami League general secretary Shahin Chakladar.

Meanwhile, 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.

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.

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. She was moved to a safehouse.

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 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.
Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, who will lead the interim government in the country, is expected to arrive in Bangladesh on Thursday, media reports said.

He will come on an Emirates flight from Dubai, a reliable source told The Daily Star.

In a statement he earlier said: "If we take the path of violence everything will be destroyed. Please stay calm. Help those around you to stay calm. "Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes," he said while lauding the students for their bravery.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister and BNP chief Khaleda Zia, who is a longtime rival of Sheikh Hasina, urged students and protesting people to set aside thoughts of revenge and unite to rebuild the country.

She also urged everyone to be patient, the party's secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told The Daily Star.

Zia was released from prison a day after Hasina quit and escaped to India amid violent anti-government protests which left over 100 people dead.

Attorney General AM Amin Uddin has resigned from his post on Wednesday, nearly four years after he was appointed to the post by the president on Oct 8, 2020.

"I have sent my resignation letter to the president. I mentioned personal difficulties as the reason for resignation in the letter, " AM Amin Uddin told The Daily Star.

Major General Ziaul Ahsan detained

Major General Ziaul Ahsan, who was relieved from duty just a day after Hasina's ouster, was dramatically detained after the flight on which he was travelling was brought back from the Dhaka airport runway to the boarding bridge.

It was learnt that DGFI members took him back to Dhaka Cantonment, reported The Daily Star.

He had served as the Director General of National Telecommunication Monitoring Centre since 2022 before he was relieved of duty.
Photo Courtesy: Muhammad Yunus Instagram page

Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday appealed to students and political parties that they should remain calm and work towards building Bangladesh.

Yunus, who will head an interim government, described the fall of former PM Sheikh Hasina-led government as the 'Second Victory Day'.

In a statement issued by the Yunus Centre, the Grameen Bank founder said: " I congratulate the brave students who took the lead in making our Second Victory Day possible and to the people for giving your total support to them. Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes. I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm."

He urged students to refrain from the path of violence.

"Please refrain from all kinds of violence. I appeal to all students, members of all political parties and non-political people to stay calm. This is our beautiful country with lots of exciting possibilities. We must protect and make it a wonderful country for us and for our future generations," he said.

According to Bangladeshi media reports, Yunus is likely to arrive in Dhaka tomorrow.

Also read: Bangladesh violence: Hindu homes, temples under attack after Sheikh Hasina's exit

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister and BNP chief Khaleda Zia, who is a longtime rival of Sheikh Hasina, urged students and protesting people to set aside thoughts of revenge and unite to rebuild the country.

She also urged everyone to be patient, the party's secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told The Daily Star.

Zia was released from prison a day after Hasina quit and escaped to India amid violent anti-government protests which left over 100 people dead.
Photo Courtesy: David Lammy X page

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has demanded a United Nations-led independent investigation into the recent developments in Bangladesh that have created a political vacuum in the South Asian nation.

In a statement, David Lammy said: "The last 2 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."

He said all sides need to work together to ensure end of violence in the country that has left over 300 people dead so far.

He further said: "The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks."

He 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."

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina was forced to quit and escape to India on Monday amid violent protests against her government which was started by students last month over the issue of quota in government jobs.

The protest soon spiralled and demonstrators demanded Sheikh Hasina's resignation.

Sheikh Hasina was the longest-serving Prime Minister of the country which was formed in 1971.
Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman on Wednesday confirmed the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will take oath on Thursday.

He said the oath-taking ceremony will take place at 8 pm.

The Army chief was quoted as saying by Dhaka Tribune: "We are making every effort to hold the oath-taking ceremony tomorrow (Thursday)."

"There was a proposal to hold it in the afternoon. However, that would result in a very tight schedule because Dr Yunus is expected to arrive in the country around 2:10pm. It would be difficult to arrange the ceremony after that. Therefore, we may hold it around 8pm. The arrangement will accommodate a total of 400 people," he said.

Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday appealed to students and political parties that they should remain calm and work towards building Bangladesh.

Yunus, who will head an interim government, described the fall of former PM Sheikh Hasina-led government as the 'Second Victory Day'.

In a statement issued by the Yunus Centre, the Grameen Bank founder said: " I congratulate the brave students who took the lead in making our Second Victory Day possible and to the people for giving your total support to them. Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes. I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm."

He urged students to refrain from the path of violence.

"Please refrain from all kinds of violence. I appeal to all students, members of all political parties and non-political people to stay calm. This is our beautiful country with lots of exciting possibilities. We must protect and make it a wonderful country for us and for our future generations," he said.

According to Bangladeshi media reports, Yunus is likely to arrive in Dhaka tomorrow.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister and BNP chief Khaleda Zia, who is a longtime rival of Sheikh Hasina, urged students and protesting people to set aside thoughts of revenge and unite to rebuild the country.

She also urged everyone to be patient, the party's secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told The Daily Star.

Zia was released from prison a day after Hasina quit and escaped to India amid violent anti-government protests which left over 100 people dead.

Former PM Sheikh Hasina was forced to quit and escape to India on Monday amid violent protests which left over 100 people dead in the country.
Tata Power to partner with Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd. for developing the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project in Bhutan

This strategic partnership is a step towards strengthening the clean energy collaboration between India and Bhutan

The project aligns with Bhutan's ambitious goal of achieving 15 GW of hydropower generation capacity by 2040



This marquee investment underscores Tata Power's commitment to its "Sustainable is Attainable" intiative, striving towards carbon neutrality and providing alternative clean energy to India.



The MoU for the project has already been signed between Tata Power and DGPC and the Definitive Agreement will be executed shortly.



Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power said, This is a landmark alliance for Tata Power and Druk Green Power Corporation. The development of the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project in Bhutan will provide energy security to the region. This project marks a significant step towards building a sustainable energy landscape underscoring Tata Powers commitment to a greener future.



Mr. Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, MD, DGPC, said, This strategic partnership with Tata Power to develop the Khorlochhu hydropower project is a significant step towards Bhutans energy security and economic development as the country seeks to become a High Income GNH Economy by 2034. This partnership with Tata Power opens new avenues for sourcing investments to harness Bhutans huge hydropower and solar potential. It further ensures access to and complements the evolving Indian energy market for surplus generation in the summer months with opportunities to expand in future to the regional market. Looking forward, DGPC hopes to not only build on this partnership with Tata Power but also emulate similar partnerships with other interested partners.



The Khorlochhu Hydro Power Ltd will also sign long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) with Tata Power Trading Corporation Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Power Company Ltd, for export of the summer surplus power to the Indian market and with Bhutan Power Corporation Ltd (a subsidiary of Druk Holding & Investments Ltd) for the domestic sale of power in the winter months.



Tata Power also has a successful Joint Venture with Power Grid Corporation of India Limited for a 1,200 km long Tala transmission line to bring electricity from Bhutan to Delhi.

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With the support of the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Government of India, Tata Power , one of India's largest integrated power companies, has entered into a strategic partnership with Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd (DGPC) of Bhutan for the development of the 600 MW Khorlochhu Hydropower Project. The Project is located in the Trashiyangtse Dzongkhag (District) in Eastern Bhutan on the Kholongchhu river. While the clean power from the project will help meet Bhutan's increasing electricity requirements, it will also complement and contribute to India's energy transition to renewables.The partnership involves a 40% equity investment by Tata Power in the Public Private Partnership Company, Khorlochhu Hydro Power Limited. The estimated project cost including financing charges is approximately Rs. 6900 Crore (approx US $821 millions) with a construction timeline of 5 years. All the statutory approvals are in place for construction work to start immediately.This announcement comes in a couple of months after Adani Group announced the signing of an agreement with Bhutan for a 570 MW green hydro plant, which also included transformative infrastructure initiatives in the neighboring country.This alliance between Tata Power and DGPC is an extension of the existing partnership in the 126 MW Dagachhu Hydropower Plant in Bhutan. Once operational, the Khorlochhu Hydropower Project will help Bhutan meet its winter electricity requirements which is increasing rapidly. It will also export electricity to India to support the increasing power demands of Indian utilities during the summer months.
Indian 2, starring Kamal Haasan, will soon be available to stream on Netflix. The much-anticipated movie did not get the best reviews when it was released in theaters recently. The way the movie was made left both critics and audiences feeling extremely let down. Many people expressed displeasure on social media, criticizing the premise and saying that it is a letdown since the first film, Indian, was genuinely very well crafted. Actress Priya Bhavani Shankar, who portrayed Aarthi Thangavel in the movie, has now opened up about being bullied after the film failed to meet the expectations of viewers.

In an interview with Galatta, Between signing Indian 2 and its release, according to Priya, there was a process. Because she signed the movie, she had a ton more offers. It was the first major picture she had signed for her career. Despite not being familiar with filmmaking at the time, her film Kadaikutty Singam became a huge hit. She continued by saying that she is happy that filmmaker Pandiraj made the offer to her. She said, however, that you can only get offers for movies if you are in major motion pictures. You are viewed as a hero by them. The hero and you must perform a duet. She is aware that all this exists and is not complaining about it.

She went on to add, "Nobody would want to work on a film knowing that it wouldn't work. Every technician worked hard with the intention of the film getting successful. It is a huge disappointment when a film fails, for everybody involved. No matter how big a star you might be, it's a big disappointment. "

She also said that if the makers offer her Indian 2 after all the backlash, she would still do it. She added "I know this is how people are going to bash you. Honestly, they started bullying me. I am not delusional. It's hurting."

Film's plot and more

Indian 2 is a vigilante action movie set in Tamil that was directed by S. Shankar in 2024. B. Jeyamohan, Kabilan Vairamuthu, and Lakshmi Saravana Kumar co-wrote the storyline for the movie. It is a follow-up to Indian (1996) and the second part of the Indian film series. Together with a group of actors, Kamal Haasan returns to the character of Senapathy, an elderly freedom fighter who turns vigilante and battles corruption.

Indian 2 OTT release date

Thatha varaaru, kadhara vida poraaru #Indian2 is coming to Netflix on 9 August in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada!#Indian2OnNetflix pic.twitter.com/cJN0JWaprp

 Netflix India South (@Netflix_INSouth) August 4, 2024

For all those who are waiting, Indian 2 is going to release on Netflix on 9th August 2024.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment
Kaos, the mythological dark-comedy series by Charlie Covell is all set to release on OTT platform Netflix. The series is about three humans who discover their connection to each other and to a long-standing ancient prophecy while they deal with corrupt and arrogant gods in classical mythology.The Kaos OTT release date is August 29.



Plot

Kaos is about an all-powerful god, Zeus, who is also insecure. In the series, Zeus is shown fearing his end, and what is done to tackle the fear is how the story of the series progresses. The story further revolves around three humans who realise their connection with the Greek gods.

Kaos will be an eight-part, one-hour series. In 2022, it was revealed that the Kaos series had begun filming in Spain. The first teaser clip for Kaos, showing Goldblum, was shared on YouTube earlier this year.

The show's creator, Charlie Covell, said when the show was released that he was absolutely thrilled to be making KAOS and to think of a more exciting or dynamic team of people to bring everything to life.

Sophie Klein, the Director of UK Series at Netflix, said in a statement, "We are delighted to have such a phenomenal cast and team delivering Charlie Covell's unique, contemporary vision of a mythical world. Joyful and dark, Kaos will entertain, amuse, and move you all at once."

Cast

The cast of Kaos includes actors like Jeff Goldblum, Leila Farzad, Janet McTeer, Cliff Curtis, Rakie Ayola, David Thewlis, Killian Scott, and Debi Mazar, among others.



For more news and updates from the world of OTT, celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


Bangladesh is going through political turmoil after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India following protests in her country. At the time when Bangladesh is having an identity crisis, here is a list of movies you can stream to get an overview of Bangladesh and its political history. The stories in the films given below with their OTT platforms will help you get an insight into the historical and political landscape of Bangladesh, focussing on the events that shaped its independence and the struggles endured by its people.

1. Pipaa - Prime Video

Pippa stars actors like Ishaan Khatter and Mrunal Thakur in crucial. The movie is a biographical war film, released in 2023. This film talks about real-life Brigadier Balram S. Mehta's rise to prominence during the Bangladesh Liberation War.

2. Gunday - Prime Video

Gunday, a 2014 film, transported viewers back to the 1971 conflict that gave birth to Bangladesh. The film follows two young orphans on their path to become Calcutta's most popular and powerful "Gunday." The film depicts how things turned upside down during Bangladesh's establishment.

3. Raazi - Prime Video

The 2018 movie Raazi is a spy thriller. The film stars Alia Bhatt as the main lead, who plays a spy for the Indian government in Pakistan. This movie is inspired by a real-life spy agent, Sehmat, who played a crucial role during the 1971 war.

Also Read: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes OTT release date Prime Video India: When to watch the dubbed versions of this action prequel

4. Refugee - YouTube, Prime Video

A romantic film, Refugee, was released in 2000. With Abhishek Bachchan and Kareena Kapoor in the lead roles, the film revolves around an Indian Muslim and his journey of helping refugees from India and Pakistan (including modern-day Bangladesh) cross the border through the Great Rann of Kutch.

5. Guerrilla - YouTube

Guerrilla is a Bangladeshi film based on historical events from the Bangladesh Liberation War. The film, released in 2011, is based on Syed Shamsul Huq's novel Nishiddho Loban.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


While everyone was waiting with baited breaths and praying for Vinesh Phogat's Olympic win, heartbreaking news struck as the Indian wrestler was disqualified from the 50 kg women's wrestling event at the Paris Olympics 2024 Games as she weighed a few grams over it. Phogat has been reportedly hospitalised in Paris due to dehydration after he worked out the entire night to shed those extra 2 kgs but failed to qualify because of 100 grams. This has led to an outpouring of support from Bollywood stars who rooting for the Indian wrestler to boost her morale.

Bollywood stands in support of Vinesh Phogat

That Smile 

Pure Gold 



Vinesh Phogat 



pic.twitter.com/Yz9gHNIoxR  Abhinav Pandey (@Abhinav_Pan) August 6, 2024

Taking to Instagram, filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar said that he was heartbroken for her but at the same time very proud of her too. "You will always be a champion and an inspiration to millions. Keep your chin up," he said.

Actress Taapsee Pannu wrote, "This is heartbreaking but honestly this woman has already made her mark beyond gold by now." Sonakshi Sinha also emphathised with her and said, "You were, are and always will be a champion." Bhumi Pednekar hailed Vinesh Phogat as a winner and wrote, "Itni jaan aur himmat bahut kam mein hoti hai."

"A winner beyond medals," wrote Vicky Kaushal as he hailed the wrestler. In a heartfelt note, Samantha Ruth Prabhu wrote, "At times, the most resilient individuals encounter the toughest obstacles. Remember that you are not alone, a higher power is watching over you. Your remarkable ability to persist in the midst of difficulties is truly admirable. We will always stand by you through all your highs and lows."





Will her disqualification be overturned?

Vinesh Phogat had entered the Gold Medal bout after beating Cuba's Yusneylis Guzman Lopez by 5-0 in the semi-finals on Aug 6. The entire country stands united boosting her morale after her disqualification from Paris Olympics 2024. Not only Bollywood stars even Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In fact, after his prompt intervention, people are hoping for a reversal of the decision. As per a report on NDTV, PM PM Modi has personally spoken to IOA President PT Usha asking her to exhaust all options to support Ms Phogat's case, including filing a strong protest against the disqualification if deemed necessary.


Filmmaker Hansal Mehta who has been constantly sharing his opinion on the situation in Bangladesh was recently trolled on X (formerly called Twitter) by a user who called him "Ghatiya filmmaker" but also a "Ghatiya man" who should leave India and relocate to Bangladesh. The user was apparently unhappy with the filmmaker's response. Here's what Mehta wrote back to him.

Troll asks Hansal Mehta to relocate to Bangladesh

Tu sirf ghatiya film maker nahin ghatiya aadmi bhi hai! Teri poori biradari waisi hai. You should relocate to Dhaka or Karachi asap. Move to the country you are loyal to. This is still a Hindu country. I hope the authorities investigate the source of funds for your industry ASAP.  Mandar Gokhale (@KrazyCynic1125) August 7, 2024

The director known for Scam 1992 based on the life of Harshad Mehta on Aug 6 had tweeted, "Here is a message I received from Bangladesh. Tells you what people are feeling there unlike what some bigoted people here want you to believe. Good morning Sir, it feels like weve achieved liberation again in our countrys history. Now we must build a just and fair Bangladesh 2.0!"

A lot of people were unhappy with his response. "Sir you aren't able to receive other messages coz they aren't able to charge their phones, coz their houses have been burnt," one of the users wrote. "Nonsense, seeing so much unrest and killing this is the message he chose to flaunt. Wow empathy is so selective for liberals. Not surprised though," said another user.

Hansal Mehta responds

Oh you poor, sore loser https://t.co/KPvULjSHSi  Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) August 7, 2024

However, one person advised him to either relocate to Dhaka or Karachi. He wrote, "Tu sirf ghatiya film maker nahin ghatiya aadmi bhi hai! Teri poori biradari waisi hai. You should relocate to Dhaka or Karachi asap. Move to the country you are loyal to. This is still a Hindu country. I hope the authorities investigate the source of funds for your industry ASAP." In response, Hansal Mehta called him a loser.

Also Read: #AllEyesOnBangladeshHindus trends, Bollywood stars who posted 'All eyes on Rafah' slammed for their silence



In another post on Aug 5, Mehta revealed how his film Faraaz was banned in Pakistan under Sheikh Hasina's rule. Criticising her authoritarian rule, Hansal Mehta said that the government tried to suppress his films for portraying them negatively. "This was a government that wanted nobody outside Bangladesh to know that they were simply inept and run by a highly authoritarian leader who was afraid of any criticism towards herself. They wanted to cover up their bloodied hands by shutting our voice and our right to tell a story," he wrote.

You can read the entire post below.

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





Also Read: Who is Rahul Ananda, the Bangladeshi singer whose 140-year-old house was set on fire by protesters?

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


National Handloom Day 2024: India has always been a land woven in luxury with its rich textile heritage boasting a wide variety of vibrant colours and textures. Keeping in mind our ancient handloom legacy, National Handloom Day is celebrated every year on August 7 to honour our handloom weavers and to showcase the country's rich handloom industry. This year let's commemorate this day by taking a look at 7 international brands that have incorporated Indian weaves in their collection following the global success of these textiles.



International brands that have used Indian textiles in their collections

1) Burberry

Credit: Pinterest | Burberry Maheshwari silk trench coat

The UK luxury fashion brand Burberry embraced Indian handloom fabrics and textiles first when they refashioned their iconic trench coat using Maheshwari Silk. The rich history of this Maheshwari handloom dates back to 18th-century Madhya Pradesh when the weavers first combined silk and cotton yarn to create this unique fabric for sarees.



2) Valentino

The Italian fashion house is known to use the fine-grade cashmere wool fabric 'pashmina' in its coveted winter collection. The luxurious wool fabric is made from the undercoats of Changthangi goats, which are native to the Northern Himalayas of India, particularly Kashmir, and Nepal.

3) Louis Vuitton

Credit: Pinterest | Louis Vuitton saree dress collection

The French luxury brand Louis Vuitton experimented with the beautiful Benarasi silk fabric and designed saree dresses with the rich fabric for their 2010 Diwali collection. The brand specially hired Indian craftsmen to weave custom fabric woven with the classic Louis Vuitton logo along with monogrammed flowers and traditional Indian motifs.



Also Read: From cotton to linen: 5 breathable fabrics to wear during the rainy season

4) Stella McCartney

With the ever-increasing demand for sustainable fashion practices, luxury brands like Stella McCartney are incorporating environmentally conscious fabrics into their collection. The Indian jute has recently become a regular in their collection and is used to create stunningly unique eco-friendly fabrics.

5) Tod's

Credit: Pinterest | Tod's Kanchipuram silk bag

The luxury Italian brand created the iconic Tods D Bag with Kanchipuram silk to celebrate the silk as a nod to the Indian handloom industry. The rich Kanchipuram or Kanjeevaram silk is a luxurious fabric that exhibits the unparalleled craftsmanship of weavers from Tamil Nadu and their meticulous handwork. The unique bag was made by combining silk with special leather and laser embroideries.



6) Eileen Fisher

The US-based brand was one of the first international brands that embraced Indian handlooms and textiles and famously collaborated with Indian weavers for their collections. The brand uses natural dyes and organic cotton to create handloom fabrics for their everyday collection.

7) Etro

Credit: Pinterest | Etro Ikat print collection

The Italian luxury brand is popular for its eclectic and quirky prints and incorporated world-famous Indian weaves into its 2021-spring summer collection which was a fusion of the East and the West. The brand included traditional Indian fabrics like Khadi and Pochampally ikat cotton with Indian-inspired prints in their western-style collection.



Also Read: 7 Cool And Breezy Fabrics That Will Keep You Comfortable In Summers

For more on fashion, astrology and health from around the world please visit Indiatimes Lifestyle.


Bangladesh has been in uncharted territory for more than two days following the ouster of Prime Minister Sheik Hasina. On Wednesday, the Bangladesh President's office announced that Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus will lead an interim government in the country.

CREDIT: AP

As uncertainty continues India, which shares a 4,096-kilometer-long land border with Bangladesh, is the country expected to be affected the most by the turmoil in the neighborhood.

Also read: Who is Muhammad Yunus and why protesters want him to be the interim Prime Minister of Bangladesh?

Future of hilsa import

Among the several uncertainties following the uprising in Bangladesh is how it will affect the supply of the highly popular hilsa fish to India. Hilsa is the national fish of Bangladesh and is in high demand across the border in West Bengal and many other Indian states.

CREDIT: BCCL

Sheik Hasina's Hilsa diplomacy

However, Bangladesh had banned the export of hilsa to India, which almost cut off the entire supply in the market. This changed in 2019 when Bangladesh allowed the export of 500 metric tonnes of Padma Hilsa to India, which increased to 1,850 metric tonnes in 2020.

Ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina also used to send hilsa fish as a gift to India. In the past couple of years, this used to coincide with the Durga Puja festival, when hilsa is in high demand in West Bengal.

Also read: Explained: Why Hilsa Fish Is So Popular In Bengal

CREDIT: BCCL

Normal trade to resume soon: officials

While the future of hilsa imports from Bangladesh is uncertain, officials in India have expressed optimism that trade between the two countries through land ports in West Bengal will normalize soon.

Bangladesh is India's biggest trade partner in South Asia, and India is the second-biggest trade partner of the neighbouring country in Asia.

India's main exports to Bangladesh include vegetables, coffee, tea, spices, sugar, confectionery, refined petroleum oil, chemicals, cotton, iron and steel, and vehicles.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
In a 2018 interview, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that street food vendors selling pakoda should also be considered in employment statistics, stating that the real unemployment rate in the country is much lower than what was being reported. While this was aimed at highlighting the role of self-employment, the comment was widely criticised as an admission of the government's failure to create jobs, with many calling it Pakodanomics.

CREDIT: BCCL

Pakodanomics in real life

While the merits and demerits of Pakodanomics are up for debate, there is no doubt that India has a problem of underemployment and a lack of resources for many students to pursue their academic dreams.

Also read: With PhD, 4 Master's Degrees, Punjab Man Sells Vegetables To Make Ends Meet

A video by a foreign tourist visiting India has reignited this conversation after he posted about meeting a PhD scholar who was selling street food.

In the video, the foreigner can be seen at a street food stall in Tamil Nadu, where he asks the seller how much one plate of chicken 65 costs. When the seller says it is Rs 50 for 100 grams, the foreigner asks for a plate of chicken 65.

CREDIT: BCCL

As he waits for his plate of snacks, the foreign tourist tells the street food seller that he found his stall on Google Maps.

The casual conversation then takes an unexpected turn when the street food seller tells the foreign tourist that he is also studying while running the food stall.

To the utter surprise of the foreign tourist, the street food seller revealed that he was doing his PhD in Biotechnology.

Also read: Street Food Vendor Who Made Crores, Now Rides BMW To Work

'Google my name'

"Google my name, you will find," he tells the foreign tourist, who interrupts asking, "Your shop?"

"No, not my shop, my research articles," the street food seller, who identified himself as Darul Raiyaan, a research scholar at SRM University, said.

How social media reacted

The video has since gone viral on social media, with polarising opinions.

While some said that Rayan deserves respect for what he is doing, others pointed out that it was the failure of the education system and lack of support for research that forced him to sell snacks on the street to pursue his education.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
Republican candidate for the US Presidential Election in November, Donald Trump, has said that he will be interviewed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk next week. Trump made the announcement on Truth Social, a social media platform he founded after the former president was banned by the likes of Facebook and Twitter. "On Monday night, I'll be doing a major interview with Elon Musk. Details to follow," Trump wrote.

ON MONDAY NIGHT ILL BE DOING A MAJOR INTERVIEW WITH ELON MUSK  Details to follow!



Donald Trump Truth Social 02:22 AM EST 08/06/24 @realDonaldTrump  Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) August 6, 2024

CREDIT: REUTERS

Kamala Harris takes lead in opinion polls

The development comes at a time when, for the first time, Trump is projected as trailing behind Democratic rival Kamala Harris in opinion polls.

Among recent opinion polls, SurveyUSA put Harris up three points ahead of Trump, 48%-45%, while Morning Consult put her up four points, 48%-44%. Harris also led in the YouGov and CBS News poll by one point, 50%-49%, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst poll put Harris up three, 46%-43%.

How Trump camp lost momentum

With the Democratic Party campaign re-energised following President Joe Biden's historic decision to step aside and nominate his deputy, Kamala Harris, as the presidential candidate, the Trump camp has slowly lost the edge it had at the beginning of the race.

The Trump campaign, which had heavily focused on Biden's advanced age and concerns over his poor health, is now facing the same heat. At 78 years old, Trump, if elected, would become the oldest president in US history. In contrast, Harris is much younger at 59 years old and has considerable support among young voters.

CREDIT: AP

Trump's outreach through social media

However, Trump has been drumming up support, even if it means going out of his way.

Recently, Trump was interviewed by live streamer Adin Ross, which reportedly helped the streaming platform 'Kick' break its viewing record.



In the interview, Trump also spoke in favour of TikTok, the Chinese social media platform, against which he had declared war while he was in office.

Also read: Donald Trump dances with Adin Ross, says he will 'keep TikTok going'

CREDIT: REUTERS

Ties between Trump and Musk

Trump's upcoming interview, which in all likelihood will be live-streamed on X, is yet another attempt at speaking to his electorate from friendly turf.

Notably, X owner Musk has fully thrown his weight behind the Trump campaign and has been prolifically reposting many posts against the Harris campaign.

Also read: Who is Nicolas Maduro, and why has Elon Musk accepted his challenge for a fight

Musk has also pledged USD 45 million per month to a new political action committee backing Trump.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
The Ministry of the Interior in Greece has announced a 11.25 million funding initiative to address water scarcity issues nationwide.

The financial support, provided through the Sectoral Development Program, will enable municipalities, municipal enterprises, and water supply and sewerage associations (DEYAs) to implement urgent actions

to improve water management and drinking water supply infrastructure.

The funding invitation, signed by Minister Theodoros Livanios, focuses on projects such as drilling new or upgrading existing water supply boreholes and providing desalinated water services through the rental of desalination systems.

Each eligible entity can submit one proposal, with a maximum funding limit of 150,000.

Municipalities in the Ionian Islands, South Aegean, and North Aegean regions are excluded from this invitation, as they will receive funding through a separate initiative by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy.

   iefimerida.gr
Wildfire in southern Rethymno continues to burn as firefighting teams from Athens are deployed to assist with the efforts.

Thirty-two forestry commandos were airlifted to Rethymno on Wednesday evening. Currently, 190 firefighters, 10 specialized forestry teams and 45 fire trucks are engaged in combating the blaze. Two aircraft and five firefighting helicopters were involved in the operation until sunset.

Increased resources are concentrated in the village of Agia Paraskevi in the municipality of Agios Vasileios. Firefighters are also addressing other fire fronts, though these are currently away from residential areas.

   iefimerida.gr


The Presidency, on Tuesday, faulted former Vice-President Atiku Abubakars warning to the service chiefs and the military over their engagement of the hardship protesters.

Atiku had earlier stated that whoever authorised the use of lethal force against peaceful civilian protesters would be held responsible for committing crimes against humanity.

His warning stems from the allegation that security forces used live bullets against protesters who have been demonstrating against the rising cost of living in the country since August 1.

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However, in a statement, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said Atikus warning ought to be to those looting during the protest in Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, and Jigawa states.

According to Onanuga, the security forces have remained professional, even-handed, and observed every restraint in the face of extreme provocation by the protesters.

We are surprised that Alhaji Atiku is still relying on Section 40 of our constitution (as amended) to justify a protest that is now clearly a riot, a rampage in some parts of the country, the statement reads.

Section 45 of the constitution says the right of assembly and the right of freedom of expression are not absolute. They can be abridged and fettered in the interest of public peace, public safety, law, and order. The Service Chiefs reiterated the rights of Nigerians to protest and gather freely.

READ ALSO: EndBadGovt: Yahaya Bello Distance Self From Nationwide Protests, Says Enemies Plotting His Downfall

They, however, reinforced their constitutional duty today when they said they cannot sit by idly and watch hoodlums destroy the country and its democracy.

The service chiefs and the officers and men of our security outfits should be commended for their patriotic duty to our country.

As a supporter and enabler of the destructive protests, Alhaji Atiku certainly wants the sinister protest to continue despite the red signals from the streets.

A tweet that condones the destruction of private and public property and investments of citizens is unbecoming of a former vice president of Nigeria.

Alhaji Atiku ought to have risen above the sentiment he expressed and put the interest of our countrys stability ahead of whatever advantages he hoped to reap from the insurrection on our streets.

We encourage Alhaji Atiku to borrow a leaf from opposition figures in the United Kingdom who have rallied behind the government to condemn the ongoing riots in the UK, calling for the arrest and prosecution of those behind the wanton destruction of public and private assets.

Such nationalistic temperament as displayed by opposition figures like Rishi Sunak, the immediate-past Prime Minister of the UK, is expected of Alhaji Atiku.
Charles Oputa, also known as Charly Boy, a maverick entertainer, has urged Nigerian youths to strengthen the ongoing EndBadGovernance protests across the country.

The prominent activist, who made the statement on Tuesday in a post on his official X page, stated that the struggle for decent governance is a fight for life.

He said, My dear Nigerian Youths, I trust that by now you all know what were up against. We can never make an omelet without breaking eggs. The powers that be are demonically entrenched.

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We are led by people who are thieves, dishonest, insane, intolerable and dont give a damn if we live or die. This is the fight of our lives and you guys are my bragging right.

We can defeat this monster that has befallen us, we need to get louder and go pro max.

READ MORE: Charly Boy Condemns Tinubus Govt,, Says Its Continuation Of Buharis Ruins

According to sources, the demonstration against excessive living costs, which began last Thursday, is bound to extend at least ten days.

Despite President Bola Tinubus appeal in a nationwide broadcast on Sunday, demonstrators took to the streets in various states on Monday, demanding immediate action to lower fuel, food, and other basic commodity prices.

However, after protesters were purportedly subdued by security personnel on Monday, the exercise saw extremely low turnout nationwide on Tuesday.
Former Kaduna State federal lawmaker, Shehu Sani, has alleged that the violence which trailed the #EndBadGovernance protests in the northern Nigeria was an attempt to overthrow the Bola Tinubu government.

INFORMATION NIGERIA had earlier reported that some groups of individuals were apprehended by security agents, waving Russian and Japanese flags during the movement, on Tuesday.

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The arrested individuals were said to be calling for President Vladimir Putin to intervene in Nigerias problems, amid hardship and insecurity facing the country.

READ MORE: Suspected EndBadGovt Protesters Vandalize Riverss APC Secretariat

Speaking on Tuesday as a guest on Channels Televisions Politics Today, Sani disclosed that a day before the protest, money, as well as some foreign flags were shared among the youths in the region.

He added that the protest was not squarely about the harsh policies and programmes of the government affecting the citizens, as the organizers wanted Nigerians to believe.

The former Senator alleged that someone behind the scenes was driving the protest to create room for anarchy and lawlessness in order to pave the way for an unconstitutional change of government.

A day before the last protest, money was shared to the youths and Russian flags were also shared. That shows that the whole intent of the protest is not simply about the policies and programmes of the government.

There was an attempt to create an atmosphere where there will be an overthrow of the government.

When you have this kind of situation, you will see that someone is writing a script for anarchy, lawlessness and disorder. It is incumbent for someone like us to speak.
The immediate-past governor of Kogi State, Yayaha Bello, has refuted viral report, claiming that he is one of the sponsors of the ongoing #Endbadgovernance protests across the country.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, signed by Michael Ohiare, the head of his media office, stated that the claim was part of the grand plans by some enemies of the former governor to frame him.

Ohiare described the report as reckless and irresponsibly malicious, adding that Bello remained a patriot who had devoted his time, resources and energy to building a united and prosperous Nigeria.

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The statement reads: We have uncovered a high-wired plan by some disgruntled enemies of the nation and persons on the Project Bring Down Yahaya Bello, to frame him up as one of the sponsors of the #Endbadgovernance protests across the country.

READ MORE: FCT Court Declines Yahaya Bellos Plea To Transfer N80bn Fraud Case To Kogi

We wouldnt have bothered to respond to a clout-chasing criminal, blackmailer and blackmail pawn, a hired gun in the hands of some unpatriotic Nigerians, who published a fake, malicious and unintelligent report about an imaginary involvement of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, in the ongoing protests across the country.

But it is pertinent to respond to the tirades of falsehood by the writer because it borders on national security. Our resolve is further strengthened by the condemnable act of some protesters displaying the flags of other nations.

What threatened our fragile unity was resolved amicably on the negotiation table provided by Alhaji Yahaya Bello when he mediated between the northern food transporters and their southern counterparts and brought them together as food exchange between the two regions was threatened. That move earned him so much commendation by leaders of the country at that time.

Can the masterminds of his persecution show the world the results of their state? Yahaya Bello also mobilised the youth of the nation as the APC Youth Mobilisation Committee Chairman, because of his faith in the leadership capacity of Mr President.
Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, says Nigeria pays $600 million monthly on fuel imports.

According to Edun, this high expenditure is partly due to neighbouring countries benefiting from these fuel imports, extending as far as Central Africa.

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During an interview on African Independent Televisions Moneyline with Nancy, on Wednesday, Edun explained that this situation prompted President Bola Tinubu to eliminate the fuel subsidy, as the country lacked precise data on its domestic fuel consumption.

His words: The fuel subsidy was removed on May 29, 2023, by Mr. President, and at that time, the poorest 40 percent of the population was only getting four percent of the subsidys value, and basically, they were not benefiting at all. So, only a few were benefiting.

READ ALSO: Revenue Rising, Economy Moving In Right Direction  Wale Edun

Another important point is that nobody knows the actual petroleum consumption in Nigeria. We know we spend $600 million to import fuel every month, but the issue is that all the neighbouring countries benefit.

So we are not just buying for Nigeria; we are buying for countries to the east, almost as far as Central Africa. We are buying for countries to the north, and we are buying for countries to the west. And so we must ask ourselves as Nigerians, how long do we want to do that for? That is the key issue regarding petroleum pricing.

Edun further clarified the N570 billion fund released to State governments, which was implemented in December 2023.

This actually refers to a reimbursement that they received from December last year onwards, and it was a reimbursement, I think, under the COVID financing protocol. But the point is that the states have received more money. They have received more money. Mr. President has charged to ensure food production in the states, he said.
The Imo State High Court has convicted and sentenced a cleric, Desmond Eke, to eight years imprisonment for raping his church members wife.

Eke, the founder of Deliverance Ministry of the Good Shepherd, Umuehieta Avu, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State was found guilty of taking advantage of the woman who had vested so much trust in him.

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The convict was tried on three counts that bordered on raping the victim who is also a member of his church and administering a stupefying substance on his victim which made her dizzy and weak.

According to the prosecution counsel, Chioma Emuka, it was while in the dizzy state that Eke took advantage of the woman who woke up to consciousness while he was still inside her.

Emuka said, On inquiry on why he had to violate her, the pastor told the 25-year-old woman that his semen is holy enough to deliver her of the marine spirit that was disturbing her.

READ ALSO: Kano Police Arrest Notorious Armed Robber, Recover Cash, Weapons (Pictures)

Delivering judgment on the matter, Justice T. N . Nzeukwu, held that Eke was guilty of the offences preferred against him.

Nzeukwu convicted Eke on count two of the charge of breaching trust and raping the woman but discharged him on the third count which bordered on inflicting injuries during the rape.

Since the woman was not completely conscious during the incident, there was no way injuries could result since there was no resistance, Justice Nzeukwu held.

Before the sentence, the defence counsel pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy that his client had been of good behaviour having been present in court throughout the trial without jumping bail.

He pleaded that instead of a full sentence, his client should be put on probation.
Atiku Abubakar, Nigerias former Vice-President, on Tuesday, posited that shooting of unarmed civilians by security operatives, especially soldiers, is a crime against humanity.

His comment stems from the shooting and execution of some protesters by security operatives during the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protest across the country.

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He told the military hierarchy that those sanctioning the use of excessive force against peaceful civilian protesters would not be shielded or exonerated by the passage of time.

According to him those culpable of such abhorrent act would be held responsible for committing crimes against humanity even years after they might have left service.

READ ALSO: EndBadGovt: Violent Protests In North Was Attempt To Overthrow Tinubus Govt  Shehu Sani

The 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate said in a statement, I wish to convey a stern caution to the distinguished service chiefs and military commanders of Nigerias armed forces that those who authorise the use of lethal force against peaceful civilian protesters will be held responsible for committing crimes against humanity, even in the years following their retirement from service.

The constitutional right to engage in protest is firmly established within our supreme law and reinforced by the judiciary.

It is the solemn duty of the government and security agencies to ensure a safe and protected environment for individuals exercising their right to peaceful protest.


Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, says money and Russian flags were shared with youths in the northern before the start of the #EndBadGovernance protest.

Sani who spoke in an interview with Channels Television on Tuesday, said the sharing of money and Russian flags has shown that the motive of the protest is not about the implications of government policies.

Nigerians have taken to the streets since August 1, demanding solutions to the various challenges, including the rising cost of living and insecurity in the country.

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The demonstration however turned violent in the northern part of the country, resulting in the looting and vandalisation of properties, unlike in southern Nigeria.

Another dimension to the protest in the north is the waving of Russian flags by some protesters, who are also calling on Russian President Vladimir Putin to intervene in the country.

Reacting, Sani said there is an attempt to create an atmosphere where there would be an overthrow of the government.

The former Senator said the nature of the protest was different in the North because the demonstration had no leadership, unlike in the South.

His words: What we have seen in the last few days is not a peaceful protest as far as Im concerned from the northern part of Nigeria.

The whole idea was hijacked, and the script changed as far as the north was concerned.

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Those who called for the protest must have come from Lagos or anywhere, but there was no visible leadership as far as Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, and all the states that experienced violence in the north.

It is a fact that a protest has a rule. The first reason is that there should be a reason for people to protest.

Of course, there is hunger and hardship as a result of the economic reforms, which are enough reasons for people to protest peacefully.

Secondly, a protest also needs leadership. When you have leaders, who will lead the flock on the streets. Then, certainly, one of the responsibilities of that leader is to control the crowd and guide them.

That was not the case in the north. What we have seen, especially in Kaduna State, where I come from, is that people were called out to the streets and then left on autopilot.

Young people used the opportunity to launch attacks on public infrastructure, snatch motorcycles and phones, molest people, attack banks, and loot public establishments.

The new dimension to this is that a day before the last protest, money was shared with youths, and then Russian flags were also shared.

That shows that the whole intent of the protest is not simply about the policies and programmes of the government or objection to the removal of subsidy.

But there was an attempt to create an atmosphere, where there would be an overthrow of the government. When you have this kind of situation, that means there is someone writing a script for anarchy, lawlessness, and disorder.
Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), says security agencies involved in the management of the #EndBadGovernance protest did not use excessive force on demonstrators.

According to him, there were attacks on security agents deployed to manage the protests.

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Egbetokun who disclosed this during a Tuesday meeting of security agencies heads in Abuja also said the military and police did not use live ammunition during the protests.

He said: The police and the military and indeed no other security agency involved in the management of this protest has deployed excessive use of force. Instead, what we had were attacks on security agents during the protest. From our record, there were no shooting incidents by the police.

READ ALSO: APC Moves To Reinstate Ndume As Senate Whip After Apology

The police or military did not use any live ammunition in the management of these protests. Instead, we have had cases where our officers were injured and are in critical condition as we speak.

I will dismiss that as fake news and very wrong allegations. We didnt use excessive force at all. We didnt even deploy the whole of our strength in this protest even when it turned violent. We have water cannons we did not deploy, we have rubber bullets, we didnt use. All that we have used is teargas and nothing more.

Egbetokun also disclosed that the police were not overstretched by the protests, adding that during the protests, several other criminals were nabbed.
Sidney R. Brown, CEO of National Freight Inc., leaves the Mercer County Criminal Courthouse in Trenton after a preliminary hearing on Wednesday. Read more

TRENTON  For almost 30 years Sidney R. Brown has served as chief executive of a family business that started as a one-dump-truck gravel hauler in Vineland during the Great Depression and has since grown into one of the largest trucking and freight services companies in the U.S.

Browns company, National Freight Inc., with sales now topping $3.5 billion a year, started a new chapter in its long history in 2017 when it announced it was relocating its corporate headquarters to Camden, taking part in a waterfront redevelopment plan by George E. Norcross III, the South Jersey Democratic power broker and insurance executive.

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Now Brown, 67, has been indicted alongside Norcross and four others on state racketeering charges that accuse them of abusing their political power to squeeze out rival developers and obtain valuable real estate. Brown, making his first court appearance since the charges were announced in June, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges of racketeering conspiracy, extortion, and related counts during his arraignment in Mercer County Superior Court.

Brown, of Philadelphia, declined to comment as he left the courtroom in Trenton.

In a statement issued shortly after the proceeding, his attorney Lawrence S. Lustberg said, Sidney Brown pleaded not guilty today because he is not guilty. Sid has in fact done absolutely nothing wrong. He is proud to be an important part of the revitalization of Camden through his investment in residential and commercial real estate, which has transformed the citys waterfront. It is just a matter of time before he is exonerated.

Prosecutors accuse Norcross of conspiring with Brown and others to use threats and intimidation to force Philadelphia developer Carl Dranoff to sell property, development rights, and tax credits so that the insurance executive and his allies could develop the Camden waterfront.

Norcross firm, Conner Strong & Buckelew, partnered with NFI and residential developer the Michaels Organization on an 18-story office tower, Triad1828 Centre, backed by $245 million in state tax credits made available under a 2013 law that prosecutors say Norcross manipulated for his own benefit.

Norcross and the other codefendants pleaded not guilty last month, and his lawyer accused Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin of leading a legal jihad against his client.

Family business

Brown is the third-generation head of whats now NFI. From 2012 to 2023, his compensation package was $60 million, according to court papers.

While Norcross, executive chairman of insurance brokerage Conner Strong & Buckelew, and codefendant John J. ODonnell, CEO of the Michaels Organization, have both taken leaves of absence from their companies since the indictment was unsealed, NFI has announced no change in Browns status. The company hasnt been charged.

With 17,000 employees, NFI says it is the sixth-largest U.S. provider of dedicated trucking services to corporate clients, who in the past have included Anheuser-Busch InBev, Nestle, Hanes, Lowes, Trader Joes, and Walmart. It is the fourth-largest U.S dry-storage warehouse operator, with more than 300 terminals and warehouses totaling 71 million square feet of warehouse space  more than all the office space in Philadelphia and King of Prussia combined.

The company was founded in the vegetable-farming center of Vineland, Cumberland County, by Sids grandfather Israel Brown in 1932. Sids father, Bernie, took over when his father died in 1951, and the company expanded as National Freight Inc.

NFI credits Bernie Brown with helping persuade the industry to use longer, taller trailers during the trucking industry deregulation that started in the 1970s and adding new services. He stressed community ties, including the creation of Cumberland Countys community college in the 1960s. He also founded the former Sun National and Citizens United Banks.

Bernie named Sid CEO in 1995. Sid also serves as chairman of the board. Sids brothers Ike and Jeff share the title of president and vice chairman. The brothers own and control the company, and some of their children work there, too. Bernie Brown died in 2021.

Sid borrowed money to build warehouses along the East Coast in the mid-1980s, a time of easy money as deregulated savings-and-loans lent aggressively.

The bankers werent paying attention, he recalled in a 2020 interview. I got almost 100% financing. We were highly leveraged.

Then the economy slowed, S&Ls went broke, NFI struggled, and Brown vowed not to go so deep in debt again. NFI survived the burst of the 2001 internet bubble and the Great Recession without layoffs, though the company cut driver hours for a time during COVID-era trucking disruptions, as big retailers like T.J.Maxx and Kohls shut stores.

NFI is growing again. This year it has announced new warehouses, while periodically closing some older ones. In June it bought a freight-brokerage operation serving thousands of brokers, shippers, and truckers from New York-based Transfix.

But much of NFIs business still focuses on basic consumer staples, Brown said in 2020  food, water, beer, and other beverages, groceries, paper, stuff that people use every day. Its not glamorous. It grows with the population, about 2% or 3% a year. But its steady-Eddie and will always be resilient in downturns.

Political, business ties

The Browns have supported Republicans such as fellow South Jersey trucking company owner Frank LoBiondo, who represented the area in Congress from 1995 to 2019. They have also supported Democratic groups, some promoted by Norcross. For example, records show Sid and Jeff Brown in 2018 each loaned $250,000 to General Majority PAC, a political action committee focused on New Jersey state legislative races that was widely seen as a fundraising vehicle for the Norcross-led South Jersey Democratic machine.

The Browns and Norcrosses also have served on boards together. Philip Norcross, Georges brother and now a codefendant in the states case, joined the Sun board as the bank reorganized in the early 2010s. Sid Brown also serves alongside the Norcross brothers on the board of Cooper University Health Care, the hospital network for which George Norcross is the longtime chairman.

Sid Brown is currently registered as an independent in Philadelphia, records show.

Criminal charges

Browns ties to the Norcross family have now put him in the spotlight, as prosecutors say they were part of a criminal enterprise that muscled developer Dranoff out of Camden in order to obtain real estate and related tax credits.

Conner Strong, NFI, and Michaels received their first of 10 annual installments of state tax credits in 2022. NFI obtained $7.8 million in credits, which it sold for $7.2 million in cash, the indictment says. In addition, the ownership group of a Camden apartment complex known as 11 Cooper  whose investors include Norcross, Brown, and John J. ODonnell of Michaels  received $3.5 million in tax credits between 2022 and 2023 and sold them for $4.3 million.

Prosecutors say these are gains from the criminal conspiracy.

Norcross has said he and his business partners have invested more than $300 million into development in Camden.

The indictment describes Norcross as the leader of a long-running criminal enterprise and depicts lesser-known figures such as Brown as willing participants in the scheme. For example, during an October 2016 conference call that was secretly recorded, Norcross and others discussed a plan to get the Camden Redevelopment Agency to condemn property rights Dranoff held that stood in the way of their plans to build the office tower, the indictment says.

They believed this would help them gain leverage in their negotiations with Dranoff, the indictment says. Let me just make sure, is the goal here really to try and put some pressure on [Dranoff] to sign what we just tried to get signed? Brown said on the call, according to the indictment.

Of course, Norcross responded. Later on the call, the indictment says, Brown added approvingly that we should proceed and go ahead with the proposed legal action.

They didnt follow through with that plan because Liberty Property Trust, another developer involved in the negotiations with Dranoff, wouldnt cooperate, the indictment says. But ultimately Dranoff agreed to sell various property rights for less than he thought they were worth amid a sustained pressure campaign, according to prosecutors.

Attorneys for the Norcross brothers have dismissed the recordings as antiquated material and said the allegations described in the indictment show nothing more than routine negotiating that goes on in executive boardrooms every day.

This article has been updated to correct the year Sid Brown became CEO of NFI and the companys name and to clarify the relationship between the Brown and Norcross families and the ownership of 11 Cooper.
Bucks County prosecutors said Matthew Byrne and his accomplices smuggled cocaine and methamphetamine into Bucks County by hiding the drugs inside Bluetooth speakers. Read more

A Broomall man made nine trips to Los Angeles this year while acting as the leader of a drug ring that shipped millions of dollars worth of cocaine and methamphetamine hidden in Bluetooth speakers and homemade wooden boxes to Bucks County, prosecutors said Wednesday.

He did this, his older brother told police, to help fund his childrens tuition and set them up for life, according to the affidavit of probable cause for his arrest.

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Matthew Byrne, 43, has been charged with racketeering, conspiracy, and multiple felony drug charges for allegedly overseeing the operation. His brother, Joseph, 47, faces similar charges, as do Khalik Kemp, 34, Christian Garwood, 55, and Chaz Harness-Walker, 40, who prosecutors say bought and sold drugs supplied by Byrne in the city and its suburbs.

Byrnes contact in California, a Crips street gang member named Ralph Brooks, 42, also faces charges.

Kemp, Garwood and the two Byrne brothers remained in custody, unable to post their bail. Harness-Walker and Brooks had not been taken into custody as of Wednesday.

Lawyers for Matthew Byrne and Kemp did not return requests for comment. Joseph Byrnes attorney, Paul Lang, declined to comment.

The other defendants did not have attorneys listed in court records.

Bucks County District Attorney Jen Schorn, in announcing the arrests Wednesday, said she could only imagine how many lives were spared by the interception of these dangerous drugs.

I hope the outcome of this investigation serves to warn drug dealers in our community that you will be identified, caught, and prosecuted for your crimes and we will not tolerate criminal enterprises that profit from those who suffer from addiction, Schorn said.

Prosecutors say Matthew Byrne first traveled to Los Angeles in January, and made eight other trips there through July. On those occasions, Byrne met with Brooks at his home, where he processed and packaged cocaine and methamphetamine for shipment, the affidavit said.

Byrne chose to purchase the narcotics in California, prosecutors said, because of its proximity to Mexico. Investigators intercepted conversations between Byrne and Kemp in which they discussed the purity and quality of the drugs, calling them slamming and powerful, according to the affidavit.

A total of 12 packages  all sent at times when Byrne was visiting California  were shipped to Levittown, either to his brothers home or a house owned by a female relative, according to court documents.

Three of those packages were intercepted by investigators at a processing facility in Kentucky. Each contained pounds of the narcotics, hidden inside Ridgeway brand Bluetooth speakers.

Those three packages held a combined total of 30 pounds of cocaine and methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of about $1.3 million, the affidavit said.

Investigators surveilled Byrne as he traveled throughout California and locally, following him as he picked up packages delivered to his brothers home in Levittown and brought them to Flourtown Service Center, an auto repair shop he owns in Montgomery County.

They also watched as he and Kemp met up multiple times in locations throughout the Philadelphia suburbs and Delaware, exchanging drugs and money, the affidavit said. Kemp was also seen dealing some of the cocaine supplied by Byrne at his home in West Philadelphia.

Kemp later admitted these transactions to police in an interview, saying he had met Byrne through Brooks, the California gang member who helped supply the drugs.
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Jevonia Harris, educational software engineer, speaks about the artificial intelligence program at The University of Delaware. Read more

The University of Delaware a couple decades ago distinguished itself by being one of the early adopters of recording and storing professor lectures.

It now has on file more than 300,000 videos and text transcripts of lectures from its faculty who opted in.

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Now, it is on the cutting edge again, using artificial intelligence, or AI, to pilot a new method of transforming that text into interactive study tools, such as practice quizzes, guides and outlines.

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Its starting small, partnering with Agnes Ly, an associate professor of psychological and brain sciences, and using the lectures shes recorded over the last 12 years. The tools created from her psychology course lectures, under her guidance, will be tested with students over the course of the semester.

Eight more university professors, spanning fields from geography to marketing, also have signed on, likely beginning to participate during winter session.

So rather than going out on the internet and finding flashcards on general psychology or borrowing a friends notes, its directly coming from the content of the course, said Erin Sicuranza, director of academic technology services.

The move at Delawares public flagship university, conducted in collaboration with Amazon Web Services  the companys cloud technology division  comes as colleges across the region and nation are grappling to get their arms around the vast potential and pitfalls of AI, with new educational uses and programming surfacing across the country every semester.

How colleges are addressing AIs potential

Some have called for embracing the technology for all its benefits while also accounting for the challenges it presents, such as students using it to write papers and then passing off the work as their own.

As is, students are ahead of professors. A study last year by Tyton Partners found that nearly half of college students were using AI tools while less than one-quarter of faculty were doing the same.

 READ MORE: Two years after remains of Revolutionary War Hessian soldiers were found next to Red Bank Battlefield, here is whats been learned

This technology is here to stay, Ly said. We are not going to be able to hold back the flood of AI, but what we can do ... is teach [students] what it is and how to use it responsibly and also for us to be models of how to use it responsibly.

Examples are emerging elsewhere, too.

The University of Pennsylvania earlier this year announced it was the first Ivy League school to launch a new undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence, a bachelor of science in engineering in AI. The program starts in fall 2024 with classes such as Control for Autonomous Robots, Tiny Machine Learning, and Trustworthy AI.

Also at Penn, Duncan Watts, a computational social scientist, and his colleagues built the Media Bias Detector, which uses artificial intelligence to scan news articles for tone and bias at a time when the country is keenly focused on the presidential election.

 READ MORE: One of the richest men in Korea just became Haverford Colleges new board chair. Heres what to know about him.

We wanted to equip regular people with a powerful, useful resource to better understand how major events, like this election, are being reported on, Duncan told Penn Today in June.

Some colleges are creating digital teaching assistants. At Morehouse College, a historically Black school in Atlanta, the virtual assistants, which are made to look and act like their live counterparts, are seen on a screen, standing in a classroom, using slideshows and other tools, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education, which recently featured the effort.

At Gwynedd Mercy University, Cindy Casey, assistant professor and program coordinator for computer information science and mathematics, gives students an assignment to complete on their own and then repeat it, using ChatGPT. They are then asked to look for ChatGPTs accuracy.

Students love to find mistakes, she said. When they find errors, they can let the program know. This helps to train the model and teaches the students that AI can make mistakes.

AI can be used in every subject, she said, and she expects more college classrooms to take part.

There is no other choice, she said.

The humans have the final say

At the University of Delaware, the priority, said Jevonia Harris, an educational software engineer whose idea it was to launch the project, is to keep the human part in AI.

Once we have AI create whatever it creates, she said, the humans have the final say.

She explained that Ly reviews topics that AI filters out from her transcripts, keeping those she wants, and then analyzes the content AI creates about those topics.

So now she has the assurance that what her students are using is something that came from her and she has approved, Harris said.

Ly and Joe Naccarato, an educational software engineer, demonstrated how the new project works, using the topic of institutional care, or how childrens brains are impacted, for example, if they live in an orphanage and are not hugged or held.

So I can pick that topic to get flash cards from Lys previous lectures, Naccarato said.

Out popped this one: Correlational studies allow researchers to compare developmental outcomes between children who experienced institutional care and those who did not, or between children adopted out of institutional care and those who remained in care.

Ly then can approve or reject it.

The fledgling project already attracted interest from other universities  with University of Texas at Austin, Carnegie Mellon, Notre Dame, Cornell and the University of Chicago and others sending representatives to a Zoom presentation the university held in May  and Sicuranza presenting at conferences and on panels.

Both Sicuranza and Harris emphasized that they will use recordings and texts only of those professors who opt in, and students only will be able to access material with permission. The project has been presented to both the board of trustees and members of the faculty senate, Sicuranza said.

Faculty Senate President Vickie Fedele, an associate professor, said the executive committee planned to ask project leaders to address the full senate in the fall.

Until this address occurs, we will not have enough information to comment responsibly on the project, Fedele said.

Harris noted: Consent is one of our highest priorities. Anything we do with faculty data or content, we ask permission.

Because the technology is so new, said Sicuranza, we are learning as we go.

Ly says it can help reinforce what she teaches to about 1,200 students annually.

Tools like this can definitely help the students who have questions, she said, including those who need to study at times when she isnt available to answer.

She appreciated having a voice in how AI is used, she said.

This is akin to a masters craft person being given power tools, Harris said. She has the expertise. She has the knowledge and now she has the ability to create things quickly.

How fast the program can be scaled up will depend in part on financial resources; so far most of the work has been done on existing staff time, Sicuranza said. Its too early to even know what it will cost, she said. Staff need to see how heavily its used and the costs associated with using the computer hardware.

We are trying to scale very thoughtfully, she said. Thats why we started with one really good course and one really good faculty member.
Prospect Medical Holdings Inc. announced a preliminary deal on Aug. 7 to sell Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland and other properties. Read more

Crozer Health could get a new owner under a preliminary agreement announced Wednesday by Prospect Medical Holdings Inc, the California for-profit firm that has controlled the financially beleaguered Delaware County health system for eight years.

The tentative buyer is CHA Partners LLC, a New Jersey real estate company that specializes in buying hospital properties and redeveloping them into mixed-use medical facilities. The price was not disclosed.

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We believe this is a positive step for our physicians, employees, and the communities we serve, and will help secure Crozer Healths future as a critical health-care provider in Delaware County, Crozer CEO Tony Esposito said in an announcement.

 READ MORE: What CHA Partners' ownership of Salem County hospital says about the firm.

Esposito said it will take several months to reach a final agreement and complete the sale, which requires regulatory approvals.

The plan calls for CHA to work with Healthcare Preferred Partners, an affiliated company, on the management of Crozer and its conversion back into a nonprofit. Thats what CHA did with the former Memorial Hospital of Salem County in New Jersey. It sold that property to Inspira Health after about four years, while the hospital continued losing money.

Wednesdays agreement came about eight months after the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General laid out a timeline for Prospect to seek a nonprofit buyer for Crozer, which provides vital services to residents of Chester and surrounding communities.

 READ MORE: Crozer Health since Prospect acquired it in 2016: A timeline

Prospects history in Delaware County

After years of financial struggles and a long period seeking a buyer, the nonprofit Crozer Keystone Health System sold its four hospitals to Prospect in a deal valued at $300 million. Los Angeles private-equity firm Leonard Green & Partners was Prospects majority owner at the time.

During the early years of Prospect ownership, admissions to Crozer-Chester Medical Center grew to 20,038 in 2018 from 18,598 in 2016.

By 2022, however, admissions at Crozer-Chester had slid to 13,684, according to state data. This includes patients at Springfield and Taylor Hospitals, which are covered under the same license. COVID-19 contributed to the sharp decline, but Crozers numbers fell more than those at other local hospitals.

A series of financial maneuvers added to the financial pressure on Crozer.

Prospect borrowed $1.12 billion in 2018 to pay off debt and issue a $457 million dividend to its owners, Leonard Green & Partners, as well as to individual owners, Prospect executives Sam Lee and David Topper.

Lee and Topper put Prospect into an even deeper financial hole the next year when they sold most of the companys real estate to an Alabama real estate investment firm, Medical Properties Trust Inc. (MPT), for $1.4 billion.

At around the same time, Lee and Topper bought Leonard Greens 60% stake in Prospect for $12 million. Green had already taken most of the value out of Prospect through the 2018 dividend.

The terms of the MPT real estate sale, described as a sale-lease-back, required Prospect to pay rent on buildings it used to own.

Crozers properties were valued at $420 million and required the health system to pay $35 million in annual rent, which it couldnt afford after the pandemic hammered health systems finances by reducing demand for profitable services, such as non-emergency services, and raised costs.

MPT now values the Crozer properties at $155 million  about a third of what it paid.

Previous hopes for a sale

In early 2022, it seemed a solution had been found for Crozer. ChristianaCare, Delawares largest health system, had a preliminary agreement to acquire Crozer, returning the health system to nonprofit status.

Those talks ended that August, likely because ChristianaCare didnt see how to make the deal work financially. Instead, Crozer would convert itself into a nonprofit.

A month later, Crozer announced a plan to close Delaware County Memorial Hospital in Drexel Hill as an acute care facility and instead use it for inpatient drug treatment and psychiatric care.

The Foundation for Delaware County sued, representing the interests of the former nonprofit owner of the Crozer-Keystone Health System. The foundation said Prospects purchase agreement required it to get the foundations consent before closing any of the hospitals it acquired. That provision is in effect until July 1, 2026.

The state attorney general supported the lawsuit, but acute care services and the emergency department at Delaware County Memorial still closed in November 2022 under orders from the state health department because the facility did maintain enough staff to operate safely.

The attorney generals involvement in that litigation led to the January agreement on a sale timeline. One of the provisions was that Prospect was only allowed to accept offers from nonprofits.

Now that Crozer has a preliminary agreement with CHA, work on forming a nonprofit corporation that would own the system will get under way, Esposito said.
Student participants and instructors of the Students Talking About Relationships program react during an exercise at the Lutheran Settlement House in Fishtown. Read more

The training session began with games, jokes, and levity, but the purpose was deadly serious.

Nationwide, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, almost 19% of teens have experienced sexual or physical dating violence, about 50% have faced harassment or stalking, and as many as 65% report being psychologically abused.

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 READ MORE: The epidemic of intimate partner violence is a hidden problem for college students

So, on a recent summer afternoon, amid peals of laughter, 13 teenagers met in the basement conference room of Lutheran Settlement House (LSH) in Fishtown to learn how to be a teen advocate for building healthy dating relationships.

They are members of the Students Talking About Relationships (STAR) program, LSHs teen dating violence prevention program. They have spent the last six weeks understanding how to prevent dating violence and building their leadership skills in order to present a 10-week curriculum in as many as six local high schools this fall.

Signs of dating trouble in teenage relationships

With one out of 12 high school students the victim of dating violence, most in the STAR group had heard of someones dating troubles. So when the STAR summer program facilitators, community engagement specialist Scott Sprunger and teen eating violence specialist Ella Wilkerson, asked what were signs of domestic violence, there were no shortage of answers.

The person doesnt want to see [their partner with] certain friends or wear certain clothes, said Zoey Barber, 15.

While girls and women are particularly vulnerable to experiencing violence in relationships, Sir Sutton, 14, reminded the group that boys and men can also be victims of dating violence.

But it was Destiny Lee, 15, who told a story of a former friend from her middle school that most troubled the group.

Lee recalled the day her friends long-term boyfriend took her phone in anger and tossed it, shattering it against the wall. But there was more. The boyfriend continued to get held back in middle school so the pair could be together. There were hints of physical violence in the relationship. Lee also said that the pair are still together today.

Each added fact sent the other STAR participants gasping in disbelief.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teen dating violence involves not just physical violence, such as engaging in nonconsensual sex acts, but also psychological aggression, such as threats, insults, and technological bullying such as monitoring private online activity without permission or sharing intimate photos without consent.

The lasting legacy of domestic violence

Lutheran Settlement House has been offering the STAR program for more than 10 years. Last year, the project team received a $750,000 Violence Intervention and Prevention Competitive Grant from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency to implement the program in 10 schools across Philadelphia over a period of 2 years and to pay stipends to the teen advocates.

Before the days classwork started, there was an emotional check-in for the participants and facilitators. On a scale of one to five, with five being the happiest, each person was to express feelings at the moment.

Wilkerson, 22, a former STAR participant and now LSH employee, reported she was a five. But it wasnt always the case that she felt so happy.

A person may think [domestic violence] is normal but it isnt normal. Ella Wilkerson, Teen Dating Violence Specialist at Lutheran Settlement House

When Wilkerson was in fourth grade, her cousin and the cousins boyfriend moved in with Wilkerson, her father, and the cousins mother. Chaos ensued as Wilkerson got a firsthand view of domestic violence and all its forms  emotional, verbal, and physical. The physical was usually alcohol-fueled, Wilkerson recalled, adding that the reciprocal arguing and fighting were nonstop for a year.

Nobody could make it stop, Wilkerson recalled.

Wilkerson didnt want to call the police, because this was 2012, the year Trayvon Martin was killed, and she thought police would make it worse, especially for her cousin and the cousins boyfriend. She also wanted to keep her father, who is disabled, safe from harm.

 READ MORE: How Trayvon Martins killing inspired a generation of Black journalists and activists

After a year, her cousin and the cousins boyfriend left, but the trauma left its mark.

It also means that Wilkerson has a deep understanding of how relationship violence can traumatize an entire family. Every year, almost 16 million children are exposed to intimate-partner violence. Researchers connect teen dating violence with such issues as poor academic performance, chronic school absenteeism, binge eating, drug abuse, suicide attempts, and entering violent adult relationships.

Wilkerson said she believes the STAR program is essential because it provides youth with a different perspective. It shows them a different way of being. A person may think [domestic violence] is normal, but it isnt normal.

It also provides the advocates with resources to help their peers, such as a number to call for support.

I wish I had known about a hotline. I could have talked to someone, Wilkerson said.

Becoming a STAR support

I was just looking for a job, I needed money. I had no idea what STAR was, admitted Jahki Walker, 17. But as the summer coursework went on, he said he became locked in and engaged about helping people. The STAR participants have had workshops on healthy relationships, teen dating violence, how to support friends who are in an abusive relationship, and healthy communications.

This is their last week of class. The next step will be going into the schools, presenting workshops before their peers throughout the academic year.

You are making yourself visible in your school or community. Sometimes by speaking up you are creating that welcoming space, said Sprunger.

If you are in the Philadelphia region and experiencing intimate partner violence or feel at risk of harming your partner, call the Philadelphia Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-866-723-3014. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233.
Almost two years after PnB Rock was shot and killed in Los Angeles, the trial for one of the men charged with murder in connection with his death is nearing its conclusion.

The 30-year-old Philadelphia rapper, whose real name is Rakim Hasheem Allen, was shot multiple times while being robbed of his jewelry in South Los Angeles in September 2022. He was eating with his fiancee, Stephanie Sibounheuang, at Roscoes Chicken & Waffles at the time.

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According to prosecutors, his assailant stole necklaces, rings, and wristwatches from Allen, and took a luxury Audemars Piguet watch, worth more than $60,000, from Sibounheuang.

A 17-year-old has been charged with his death. Because he is being charged as a juvenile, law enforcement has declined to release his name. A temporary judge overseeing his case ruled last month that he was not competent to stand trial.

But two other men, Freddie Trone and Tremont Jones, have been charged with helping the teen kill Allen.

Trone, 42, is the 17-year-olds father, and prosecutors allege that he drove his son to the scene and sent him into the restaurant with instructions to rob Allen, even though he knew his son was impulsive and dangerous, according to Deputy District Attorney Timothy Richardson. Prosecutors allege Jones alerted Trone and his son to Allens whereabouts shortly before the shooting.

Closing arguments in the case began on Monday.

What are Trone and Jones charged with?

Even though he did not pull the trigger, Trone has been charged with murder, as well as robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery. Jones has been charged with two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy.

First, prosecutors say, Jones tipped off Trone to Allens whereabouts. Trone then drove his son to the restaurant and sent him inside, dressed in a ski mask and with instructions to rob the rapper.

Police say that hours after the murder, surveillance footage shows Trone attempting to burn his getaway car.

Still, Trone has maintained his innocence, and his lawyers have argued that he should not be held responsible for the murder.

My client, Freddie Trone, did not pull the trigger. He was not inside the restaurant at the time. This charge of murder is the most serious charge. We have to have evidence to support it, defense attorney Winston McKesson said during the trials opening statements.

Trones wife and another woman both pleaded no contest to being accessories to the crime.

What has happened so far in the trial?

Alongside police testimony, prosecutors showed surveillance footage of Trone and Jones talking in the restaurant parking lot minutes before the shooting.

In a particularly emotional moment, Allens fiancee recounted how, during the robbery, Allen pushed her under the table and shielded her when the gunman started shooting.

Hes a hero, Sibounheuang said.

Then, in an unusual twist, Trone took the stand. During his testimony, he acknowledged that his son was dangerous but steadfastly maintained his innocence.

He said that someone used his car to drop off his son at the restaurant before the shooting  not him.

I never had nothing to do with it. I wasnt there. I didnt tell nobody to do nothing. I didnt hand nobody no gun, he said.

How is Allens family reacting to the trial?

Allens mother, Deannea, said she is praying for justice.

I want the jury to know he has a family who loves him and wants to support him, she told Rolling Stone on Monday.

Closing arguments were expected to continue through Tuesday, and a verdict could come as soon as this week.
A photo of Sandrea Williams (left) is displayed as District Attorney Larry Krasner speaks about an arrest made in the case in May 2024, six years after Williams was shot and killed in West Philadelphia. Read more

The arrest of Devin Bryant was six years in the making.

But as he sat in front of a judge for a preliminary hearing on Tuesday, all prosecutors had to show were two hostile witnesses and grainy surveillance footage.

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Bryant, 26, was arrested earlier this year and charged in the 2018 shooting death of 17-year-old Sandrea Williams in West Philadelphia  a killing that prosecutors say spurred a wave of retaliatory, gang-related shootings across the city that left at least 28 dead within two years.

Assistant District Attorney Jeffrey Palmer said Bryant is one of the founding members of a group of men affiliated with 61st and Jefferson Streets. In early 2018, he said, Bryant had gotten into a fight with another crew affiliated with 64th Street, known as 02da4, over a botched marijuana sale. That argument festered and eventually, he said, the groups started dissing each other over social media and a fight nearly erupted in a neighborhood park.

But the feud escalated to the point of no return, Palmer said, when, on the night of May 11, Bryant and his friend Salik White walked to the 300 block of North Simpson Street, where 02da4 members were known to hangout, and opened fire down the block.

Three teenagers were hit, including Williams, who was struck in the neck and back. She died within minutes.

Williams, affectionately known as Bro Bro, was not a member of 02da4, but having grown up on the same block, some members saw her like a sister. Her death, Palmer said, crossed a line for the members and ignited a gun battle between the two groups. In the two years that followed, he said, investigators believe at least 66 shootings, including 28 deaths, were linked to the dispute.

Detectives worked for years gathering evidence and securing witnesses to make an arrest in the case. White, the second alleged shooter, remains a fugitive.

But the crux of the case, Palmer said, relies on a collection of witnesses  two of whom testified in court Tuesday against their will.

The first was Xavier Veney, an 02da4 member whom Bryant was accused  but acquitted  of shooting in 2021. Veney, who is serving an eight to 16 year prison sentence for another shooting, was a close friend of Williams, and Bryant is his enemy, Palmer said.

 READ MORE: West Philly gang member Pistol P pleads guilty to shooting nine people, killing three, in 2021

But as Veney, 25, took to the witness stand Tuesday, he told the judge Bryant was his childhood friend and said he would never testify against him.

Honestly, I think youre making a fool of yourself, Veney told Palmer. Youre not gonna get me and my friends to turn on each other.

But, Palmer said, Veney already had. In the weeks after the shooting, Veney gave a statement to homicide detectives, identifying the two shooters in the surveillance footage as Bryant and White, and offered the backstory of the fight the led to the shooting, the prosecutor said.

When asked about this in court Tuesday, Veney said the signature on the witness statement wasnt his, and that he recalled nothing. The judge eventually dismissed him for being uncooperative.

Next up was Fabian Creary, a friend of Veneys and fellow 02da4 member. Creary, who is also serving a prison sentence for a shooting, also testified that he remembered none of what he told detectives about the crime back in 2019.

But Palmer played video footage of Creary talking to detectives at the police station, showing that he, too, gave details of the feud and identified Bryant and White.

Bryants attorney, Todd Fiore, asked the judge to dismiss the case, saying that surveillance footage did not even capture the shooting, let alone show that Bryant was there. And the witnesses, he said, were uncooperative and provided information entirely based on hearsay.

There is not one shred of evidence ... that my client was involved in a crime, he said.

But Municipal Court Judge David H. Conroy said the evidence was just enough for the case to proceed to trial. He held Bryant on all charges.

The Commonwealth barely met the burden of proof, Conroy said, telling Palmer: Youre gonna need a lot more at trial.

 READ MORE: How one brave teen helped solve four murders and convict a West Philly gang

Williams family sighed a breath of relief. It was painful, they said, seeing her friends try to recant information they knew about her death.

It brings out the worst in you, Nadia Rhoden, Williams aunt, said.

Fiore said he intends to file a motion to dismiss the case.

Palmer said he has other witnesses to bring forward at trial. Now, he said, its about getting to that point.

These cases are tough, he assured the Williams family. We just have to take it one hearing at a time.
Last month, when Donald Trump questioned whether Kamala Harris was Black, Democrats exploded with indignation. Harris identity was up to her, they said, not to Trump. And it was racist for him to suggest that he knew her race better than she did.

I agree with all of that. But where were these critics when African American Sen. Tim Scott (R., S.C.) was being called out as someone who doesnt get racism because hes a Black conservative? Sitting on their hands, mostly, if they werent joining the chorus themselves.

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That tells you something important about the nasty game of raising questions about racial authenticity in American politics: both teams can play it.

Start with Trump, whose comments about Harris  the daughter of a Jamaican father and Indian mother  drew gasps last week at the convention of the National Association of Black Journalists. 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. So, I dont know, is she Indian or is she Black?

Never mind that Harris attended Howard  a historically Black university  or that she was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, one of Americas leading Black sororities. Heres the larger point: Harris has the right to determine her own racial identity. And Trump has no right  none  to doubt it.

But he cant help himself, apparently. In a social media post after the NABJ convention, Trump doubled down on his offensive remarks. Your warmth, friendship, and love of your Indian heritage are very much appreciated, Trump wrote, attaching a photo showing a young Harris with sari-clad relatives.

Translated: Shes not really Black.

But thats what Democratic critics said about Tim Scott in 2021, after he delivered the GOPs rebuttal to President Joe Bidens State of the Union address. Mocking Scotts claim that America is not a racist country, they called him Uncle Tim.

That was a riff on the docile and obsequious Black man in Harriet Beecher Stowes 1852 novel, Uncle Toms Cabin. And that sentiment reflects its own kind of bigotry, too, because it implies that the critics understand Scotts racial identity more clearly than he does.

It makes no difference that Scott has denounced Capitol Hill police officers for stopping him five times on his way to cast a vote. In each instance, Scott said, he had to ask a white colleague to tell the officer who he was.

Scott has also reported being shadowed by clerks in grocery stores. And police have pulled him over more than 20 times in 20 years. I was not pulled over for going three miles over the limit, Scott wrote in his 2022 book. I was pulled over for being Black.

So Scott doesnt deny the presence of anti-Black discrimination in America; indeed, he has experienced it himself. But he rejects the idea that America is inherently racist, or that racism places a limit on what Black people can do and become.

His own story is a case in point. Born into poverty  and to a single mother  Tim Scott rose to the highest legislative body in the land. Injustice is real, Scott wrote in his book. But infinitely more real is opportunity.

That makes Scott a race traitor to some critics on the Left, who insist that hes a toady for white people rather than an independent, autonomous Black man. You can call me a prop, you can call me a token you can question my Blackness, you can even call me Uncle Tim, Scott told an Iowa audience, during his unsuccessful presidential campaign. My existence shows your irrelevance. The truth of my life disproves your lies.

Whatever you think of Tim Scott, he should get to define the truth of his life.

Exactly. Whatever you think of Tim Scott, he should get to define the truth of his life. Its a slur  and a lie  to say that hes not really Black, just as it is for Donald Trump to say the same about Kamala Harris.

Of course, we should be clear that while there are some unmistakable similarities between whats been said about Harris and whats been said about Scott, there is no equivalency here: this type of prejudice is a far more serious matter when a former president  and a current candidate for the office  indulges in it.

And dont expect Trump to back away from it, which simply isnt in his makeup. Hes got his story  albeit a baseless and tired one  and hes sticking to it.

And thats another way hes different from President Biden, who told an interviewer in 2020 that African Americans who wondered whether to vote for him or Trump aint Black. That elicited a biting retort from Scott, who denounced Biden for negative race-baiting.

Then Biden did something Donald Trump will never do: He apologized. No one, no one, should have to vote for any party based on their race, Biden said. And, we might add, no one should have to prove their racial identity  to you, to me, or to anybody else.

Lets call off this ugly game, once and for all. Well all be better for it.

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.
On Tuesday, Aug. 6, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (right) as her running mate, passing over Pennsylvania's Pa. Governor Josh Shapiro. Some survivors of sexual harassment and abuse in the commonwealth are breathing a sigh of relief. Read more

Good news, everyone: the Democratic vice presidential nominee is officially Tim Walz.

For a while, it didnt look like it would go this way. Pennsylvania is a swing state (according to a few analyses, the swing state), and some pundits believed that Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiros popularity with white rural voters here might have translated into a marginal boost with that demographic come November if he had been chosen as Kamala Harris running mate.

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Gratifyingly, the Harris campaign has apparently listened to women and survivors, who over the weekend pushed back as forcefully as possible against the notion of a Harris-Shapiro ticket because of the governors shoddy handling of an allegation of sexual misconduct.

As speculation about Shapiros chances mounted, critics of the governors tepid responses to Pennsylvanias political culture of toxic sexism raged over the possibility that the Harris campaign might ignore Shapiros troubling history.

Its a fury that is well-founded. Shapiros office dawdled in its handling of a complaint against Mike Vereb, one of the governors closest advisers who was accused in March 2023 of sexually harassing a woman who worked for him in the governors office. The Shapiro administration agreed to pay Verebs accuser $295,000 to settle the complaint, and then tried to keep her from telling her story by way of a nondisclosure agreement.

Shapiro defended his offices handling of the complaint and said in October that an investigation into the allegations was grounded in integrity, although he declined to provide specifics.

The National Womens Defense League, a nonpartisan advocacy group for survivors of sexual harassment, released a report last year that found that harassment is pervasive in state governments across the country.

The report identified more than 350 allegations of sexual harassment against lawmakers in state governments nationwide since 2013, including allegations against five legislators in Pennsylvanias General Assembly.

Sexual harassment in state politics is not a case of a few bad actors committing one-time transgressions, the report noted, but rather a systemic, ongoing, self-reinforcing failure of laws and policies to set workplace standards, protect employees and hold perpetrators accountable.

Even before Shapiros governorship had officially begun, however, it seemed like he, too, was continuing to reinforce that failure.

Barely a month after winning the office, Shapiro appointed former Democratic Party chair Marcel Groen to his transition team. Groen, who had presided over the party during the peak of the #metoo movement, was forced to resign by then-Gov. Tom Wolf for his stubborn refusal to address sexual abuse allegations roiling the party.

As his parting shot, Groen sent Democratic leaders a furious letter, in which he railed against feminist activists (including me), who he blamed for his descent into ignominy.

Shapiros more distant past conduct raises troubling questions about his commitment to combating domestic violence against women, as well.

In 2011, Ellen Greenberg died after suffering 20 stab wounds, including several to the back of her neck. Her body showed signs of bruises at various stages of healing, a sign of possible ongoing domestic abuse. Nevertheless, her death was ruled a suicide  a ruling that Shapiros office supported when he was attorney general.

In 2022, Shapiros office referred the case to another office to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest; Shapiro had a personal connection to Greenbergs fiance, who discovered her body.

Greenbergs family, who filed a lawsuit against the city in 2019 urging them to reopen the investigation into their daughters death, has questioned whether that relationship affected Shapiros decision-making in the case.

 READ MORE: Shapiros transition team sends a bad message to women | Opinion

We may never know with certainty whether any of this played a role in the Harris campaigns decision to bypass Shapiro, but I choose to see it as a strong message to survivors: good things come to those who organize.

In a matter of days, Shapiro went from clear favorite to also-ran. Women came together to force the Harris campaign to confront the fact that Shapiros feeble handling of sexual misconduct allegations made him more of a liability than an asset, and theres a good chance that the campaign responded to that pressure.

In private and in public, many of us worked to make evident the problems a Shapiro pick would pose to Harris ability to credibly  and uncompromisingly  go after Trump for his outrageous history of misogynistic behavior.

We refused to accept the elevation of a leader who had failed us.

I choose to see the decision to bypass Shapiro as a strong message to survivors: good things come to those who organize.

Now, for the next few months, our attention must turn to electing Harris. As her selection of Walz shows, Harris is a savvy politician. She is not a savior; her first impulse may not always align with progressive values. With enough organized pressure, though, there is a chance that she can be moved. As progressives and organizers, we have a vested interest in electing a president we can push to act in the interests of justice.

The work wont end there, though. To win what we in the liberatory movement want  worker justice, protections for women and trans folks against harassment, cease-fire in Gaza, an end to racist policing, and so much more  we will need to be organized and strategic, and ready to fight hard.

The work doesnt end on Election Day; it begins in earnest.

In the meantime, the political establishment in Pennsylvania would do well to treat Shapiros inability to secure the vice presidential nomination as a clear lesson that they ignore women and survivors at their own peril. Political stars in our commonwealth who aspire to the national stage must realize just how retrograde state governments culture of harassment appears to the rest of the country  and they must actively work to fix it.

Gwen Snyder is a writer, researcher, and longtime Philadelphia organizer.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker waves to the crowd at a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris at Temple University on Tuesday. Read more

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker urged Democrats on Tuesday to get behind Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz after she vocally pushed for Gov. Josh Shapiro to be Harris running mate.

Parker spoke at a Philadelphia rally Tuesday evening ahead of Harris and Walzs first joint campaign appearance, and referenced that she was asked about Shapiro on her way into the event. In response, she recalled a childhood memory, describing her grandmother telling her not to discuss internal family strife outside the house.

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We must take a page out of my grandmothers book, that we remember that our Democratic nominee has spoken, Parker said. Thats it. Period, end of story.

Parkers support of Shapiro garnered national attention Friday after she posted a campaign video that seemed to imply he was the pick. Sources said it was one of several contributing factors that led to Shapiro getting passed over for the vice presidential nomination despite being widely seen as a frontrunner for the role.

But Parker said Democrats now need to trust Harris choice, saying doing otherwise would allow former President Donald Trump to divide and conquer.

The only North Star that should be in all of our hearts, minds and spirits, Parker added, is making sure that Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are the next president and vice president of the United States of America.

In an interview with CNNs Jake Tapper after she took the stage, Parker said while she was unapologetic in her support of the Pennsylvania governor, she predicted Democrats  including Shapiro  would unite behind Walz.

Ive worked with him for many, many years, hes a consummate professional, Parker told Tapper. We know, he knows, all of us are going to come together to ensure that we defeat Donald Trump.

And Parker took an opportunity to take a jab at former President Donald Trumps running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, who campaigned in South Philadelphia on Tuesday. She said she looked forward to watching Walz debate him.

JD Vance aint got a chance against Governor Walz, Parker said.
Gov. Josh Shapiro was a top contender to be Kamala Harris' running mate in the 2024 presidential election. Read more

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro arrived on Sunday at the U.S. Naval Observatory, Vice President Kamala Harris residence in Washington, thinking that there was a strong chance she would pick him to be her running mate in the presidential race.

But by the time he left his final interview with Harris, Shapiro got the impression that she was headed in a different direction, according to a person with knowledge of his experience during the process. Two days later, she tapped Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate.

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Although Shapiro was widely seen as a front-runner from the outside, Harris decision was impacted by factors political and personal, and by events that played out in the highly compressed timeline for her to make a selection, according to two sources familiar with her campaigns vetting process.

Shapiro faced far more public criticism than Walz, who was largely seen as a do-no-harm option. And two of the top Democrats in the state, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, contributed at least in part  and in very different ways  to a narrative that Shapiro had been trying to avoid: He was too ambitious to be a No. 2.

Shapiro, 51, came into the process with a growing national profile after a landslide 14-point victory over Republican Doug Mastriano in the 2022 gubernatorial race, cementing his status as one of the partys top political talents in a critical battleground for the presidential contest.

Shapiro gained national attention in his first year as governor for reopening I-95 just 12 days after a tanker fire caused a collapse to a section in Northeast Philadelphia. And this year, he negotiated a bipartisan budget deal through a divided legislature.

But as a potential VP pick, he faced opposition from public education advocates over his embrace of private school vouchers, from progressives over his vocal support for Israel, and from the National Womens Defense League, which was concerned about his handling of sexual harassment complaints against a one-time staffer.

But in addition to those political concerns, Harris, who knows well the delicate relationship between a president and vice president, was also worried about whether Shapiro would be a good fit for a supporting role, according to the sources familiar with the vetting process.

Throughout her search, Harris telegraphed that she was interested in a governing partner. Shapiro is well-known as a sharp-elbowed competitor and a future White House aspirant, and his name was floated as a long-shot replacement for Biden before Harris became the presumptive nominee.

Fetterman, who has clashed with Shapiro for years, furthered that narrative. Politico reported that the senator lobbied intensely against Shapiro getting the nod and warned Harris that he is excessively focused on his own personal ambitions.

Then, late last week, a public push for Shapiro from Philadelphia Democratic Party leaders took an embarrassing turn when a promo video released by Parker seemed to imply Shapiro had already secured the pick.

The video urged voters to support Kamala Harris for president and Josh Shapiro for vice president. Parker clarified Monday that she merely intended to advocate for Shapiro and was just a little bit more creative about how she chose to communicate that message.

The ad was produced by GPS Impact, a political consulting firm that has done work for Shapiro and Parker in the past, fueling speculation that Shapiro was involved in the ad.

The source familiar with Shapiros experience said that he did not ask Parker to produce the video but was aware of it before it came out.

It was [Parkers] idea. But she asked him: Was it OK to do a video supporting him? the source said. He didnt see the video [before it was published]. ... And then when it came out, the cut of the video was just bad.

Perhaps aware that appearing too eager may undercut his chances, Shapiro strategically avoided cable TV news shows as he was vetted, saying he did not want to put undue pressure on Harris deeply personal decision.

Meanwhile, Walz flooded the airwaves, publicly auditioning for the job in a series of interviews.

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.

Shapiro released a statement Tuesday saying there was a lot more stuff I want to get done for the good people of this commonwealth and calling Walz an exceptionally strong addition to the ticket.

Nearly two weeks ago, Vice President Harris asked me to work with her team to complete the vetting process, he said. I was grateful to have the opportunity to speak with the vice president directly about her vision.

Democratic City Committee Chairperson Bob Brady said he didnt think Shapiros allies pushed too hard, noting that North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, another contender for the position, also had an early endorsement from his states Democratic Party. (Cooper withdrew from consideration last week before Harris began interviewing candidates in person.)

How can that hurt? Thats gotta help, he said. If you dont do that, youre never gonna get him up.

But Brady conceded that the criticism didnt help, including from within Shapiros own party. He specifically pointed to reports that Fettermans staffers had voiced concerns to Harris campaign about Shapiro becoming the running mate.

Why would you do that to your own governor? Brady said. If you dont like the guy, shut up. Seems to me a little jealousy.

Staff writers Anna Orso and Gillian McGoldrick contributed to this article.
Josh Shapiro Gov. of Pennsylvania speaks during a rally for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, at the Liacouras Center at Temple University in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Read more

Gov. Josh Shapiro, fresh off getting passed over as Vice President Kamala Harris running mate, still took the stage to tout Harris campaign at her rally Tuesday in Philadelphia.

He entered Temple Universitys packed Liacouras Center to a sea of signs for Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, having narrowly missed the opportunity for them to feature his own name  and just hours after Harris made her decision.

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As he took the stage as a campaign surrogate rather than a vice presidential candidate, he got a sustained standing ovation. And he gave a rousing speech, straining his voice by the end, in support of Harris and Walz.

The thunderous applause as Shapiro spoke  which made him inaudible at points  illustrated Pennsylvania Democrats love for the first-term governor who is known to have national political ambitions.

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, Shapiro said to start his remarks. 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.

Harris decision not to select Shapiro was impacted by factors political and personal, according to sources familiar with the process.

But the vetting and decision process appeared to be quickly swept under the rug for Shapiro and Harris, former prosecutors who have known each other for two decades, by Tuesday evening. Harris, in her remarks as she took the stage in Philadelphia shortly after Shapiros address, called the Pennsylvania governor a dear, dear friend and an extraordinary leader.

She also noted that she will still rely on Shapiros help to win his home state.

I am so invested in our friendship and doing this together, because together, with Josh Shapiro, we will win Pennsylvania, she added. And I thank you, Josh, I thank you.

Shapiro was thrust into the national spotlight in the last two weeks and had been the most scrutinized of any of Harris running mate contenders, despite trying to run an under-the-radar campaign for the role. He took criticism from public education advocates, pro-Palestinian groups, and more. He also has bipartisan appeal and winning track record, and some Republicans breathed a sigh of relief that the popular swing state governor didnt end up on the ticket.

But the governor, in the uncomfortable position of cheering on Walz who got the job he interviewed for, didnt seem bitter. He humbly accepted the thunderous applause  at times so loud he had to pause his remarks  emphasized his love for working as Pennsylvanias governor, and praised Walz as a personal friend great patriot.

I cant wait for you, Philly and the rest of the Commonwealth, to get the chance to know the Walzes, Shapiro said.

Walz, who leads the Democratic Governors Association, told the crowd the same: Shapiro is a treasure, a visionary and can bring the fire.

Everybody in America knows when you need a bridge fixed, call that guy, Walz said, pointing to Shapiro and referencing his work to quickly reopen I-95 after a portion of it collapsed in Philadelphia last year.

And there is no one you would rather go to a [Bruce] Springsteen concert in Jersey with than him, Walz added, noting that the two governors once attended a show together.

Shapiro, in his 20-minute remarks, also referenced an issue that came up during the vetting process: his Jewish faith.

The United States has never elected a Jewish president or vice president and Shapiro faced criticism in recent weeks from pro-Palestinian advocates for his stance on Israel and its war in Gaza, some of it breaching into antisemitism.

Republicans were quick to suggest Tuesday that Shapiros religion was a reason why he was not selected. Sen. JD Vance, former President Donald Trumps running mate, said during a campaign stop in Philadelphia that Shapiro had to run away from his Jewish heritage as he sought the position of vice president.

Shapiro, who did not downplay his faith as Vance suggested, had a response to that Tuesday at the Liacouras Center. He said his family and his faith led him to a career in public service.

I am proud of my faith, he said, unequivocally.

Even as the rally attendees cheered on Harris and Walz, some expressed disappointment that a Pennsylvanian didnt end up on the top of the ticket.

I really wanted him. Hes from here, and he knows us, said Myriam Santiago, 71, of Germantown. But I think he has a great future ahead of him. I think hes going to be a presidential candidate at some point.

Staff writer Jesse Bunch contributed reporting.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks at the podium ahead of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz at a rally at Temple University's Liacouras Center on Tuesday. Read more

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro didnt get the job, but the last three weeks were quite the resume booster.

Shapiro, already a national figure, catapulted higher as he became a top contender to be Vice President Kamala Harris running mate.

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While the process included a public vetting of the Montgomery County Democrats positions and airing of grievances from his detractors, the news cycle was largely focused on his strength in a critical swing state and unbroken record of winning elections, amounting to what those who have followed his rise say was a net positive for his political stock.

Josh was just terrific, from the first day after President Biden decided to not run, up to [Tuesday] night. Hes been almost flawless, former Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell said. I think he covered himself with glory.

Even in defeat, Shapiro had a curtain call worthy of a Hollywood script, with a hometown arena of more than 10,000 people giving him a two-minute standing ovation Tuesday as he graciously  and forcefully  took the stage to commend Harris pick, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

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 said.

He did so again Wednesday in remarks to reporters, opening with a promotion of Walz as the right guy for this job.

The path for Shapiro now could go in several directions. If Harris loses the presidency in November, hes almost certain to be a top candidate in 2028. If she wins, hell have a longer wait, but would only be 58 by the 2032 primary. Thats a year younger than Harris is.

Along the way, he can run for reelection, and some speculated about whether hed join Harris cabinet  though he ruled out the latter on Wednesday.

 READ MORE: Gov. Josh Shapiro gives a rousing speech on his home turf after getting passed over for VP

In the near future, Shapiro will get a chance to showcase his rousing speaking style at the Democratic National Convention later this month, a slot he confirmed Wednesday. Hell continue to be someone the party looks to for fundraising and surrogacy.

Its undeniable that he emerges from the selection process much stronger than where he started, said J.J. Balaban, a Philly-based Democratic strategist. He now has a national brand as an unusually popular governor and moderate Democrat of the biggest swing state in the country. Thats a good brand.

Shapiro is not a No. 2

There were signs from the beginning that Shapiro might not have been the best fit for the No. 2 role, a factor that also played out in his interview and vetting, according to people with knowledge of the process. Just missing could tarnish his track record, but losing out in part because he came off as ambitious isnt necessarily a bad thing if your end goal is running for president.

In his interview with Harris team, Shapiro asked a lot of questions about the role. He was trying to, like, interview her back, one person with knowledge of the process and Harris teams reaction said.

Hes not a No. 2, the person said. He just didnt fit the assignment.

But those who know Shapiro said his thoughtfulness is also what has made him a successful leader. Hes methodical.

If youre gonna do something for four, potentially eight years, its reasonable to ask questions about what its gonna be like, said a person familiar with how the conversation went. People who know and respect him and value his leadership, its because those are the kinds of things he thinks about.

After the interview on Sunday, Shapiro also had a call with the Harris campaign acknowledging he was struggling with the idea of stepping away from being governor of the state  though he did not take himself out of contention, the person familiar with the vetting said.

Shapiro has long acknowledged hes gravitated more toward executive roles, opting against running for Congress on two occasions.

I wanted to be an executive. I wanted to serve my community, Shapiro said last week.

He said the same Wednesday to reporters outside a Camp Hill coffee shop, that he loves being governor  and setting his own agenda.

I love what I do, Shapiro said. I love that I get to do it on my terms.

Alan Kessler, a prominent fundraiser in Pennsylvania for Harris, said national and state donors expressed disappointment that Shapiro wasnt the pick and some concern about how effective Walz would be in winning the state.

But not being on the ticket means Shapiro can spend more time stumping in Pennsylvania.

This has to be, like, the worst-case scenario for Pennsylvania Republicans, J.J. Abbott, a Democratic strategist, said. We retain our relatively new but incredibly popular and effective Democratic governor who can now put all his energy into Pennsylvania alone.

When the Democratic gov has GOP defenders

Shapiro is also riding a wave of support from Republicans in the state who have criticized Harris for not picking him. Some of that backlash is rooted in a GOP attempt to frame Harris skipping over Shapiro, who is Jewish, as antisemitic.

Its hard to imagine that [Shapiros] strong stand on Israel [and] his Jewish background didnt somehow factor into the decision, Dave McCormick, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, posted on X.

Democrats and many allies of Shapiros have pushed back on that narrative, pointing to reports that Harris picked Walz because she saw him as a good governing partner and someone who could appeal in the Midwest.

And Harris husband, Doug Emhoff, is Jewish, a fact at times overlooked by those alleging antisemitism.

I absolutely cant fathom a universe in which Vice President Harris, whos married to a Jewish man, decided not to select Josh Shapiro as her running mate because Josh is Jewish, said Shapiros rabbi, David Glanzberg-Krainin of Beth Sholom Synagogue in Elkins Park. Theres just no world in which I can conceive of that as being possible.

Regardless, the net effect since the selection has been a lot of Republicans defending Shapiro and describing his centrist leanings as being in line with Pennsylvania voters  messaging that could boost Shapiros case for reelection in 2026.

Voters in Pennsylvania will see that their governor got passed over for someone not in step with their moderate views, Bucks County GOP Chair Pat Poprik said.

 READ MORE: Pa. Republicans want to send a thank you card to Kamala Harris after she passes on Josh Shapiro

But Shapiro heads back to a divided state legislature  the only in the country  where hes met the rancor of Senate GOP leaders, including President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R., Westmoreland). Ward has criticized Shapiro publicly through the veepstakes process for how his office handled a sexual harassment complaint against a former top aide.

On Wednesday, Shapiro was already talking about where he could compromise with Republicans to get stuff done  his administrations motto. Hes ready to turn to transit funding left unfinished in the $47.6 billion budget deal last month, potentially through a deal to regulate skill games.

Does the opposition stick?

With no Democratic primary, Shapiros public vetting was intense and involved some slights from people in his own party.

The opposition against him  some of it reportedly pushed by Republicans fearful hed get the job  was led largely by progressives who disagreed with his statements about protests over the war in Gaza and his embrace of private-school vouchers.

Abbott said that opposition from the left isnt likely to stick to Shapiro and that the governor showed he could build coalitions that include groups that have at times disagreed with him. He said the takeaway for most people will be that Shapiro was a serious contender to be vice president, and she just picked someone else.

And then theres the long-standing tension with U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D., Pa.), whose staff reportedly warned Harris team off of Shapiro in the final days.

On Wednesday, Shapiro waived off the opportunity to respond.

Throughout my career, Ive never played small ball, he said. Im certainly not gonna start now.

Staff writer Fallon Roth contributed to this article.
He knows about Brat Summer (sort of) and loves a good state fair. Did he also coin Democrats hottest diss phrase of the summer?

Tim Walz  Kamala Harris freshly announced vice presidential candidate  has been characterizing former President Donald Trump and, subsequently, his running mate, JD Vance, as weird long before Harris campaign and other Democratic operatives started doing the same.

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Supporters say its just his Midwestern dad-core kicking in. But others are taking notice.

Walzs deployment of the weird buzzword while speaking about Trump dates back months, according to Politico, though an exact date of first usage is unclear. But it first went viral last month during a TV appearance on MSNBCs Morning Joe, on July 23, just days after President Joe Biden announced he wouldnt run for a second term.

We do not like what has happened, where we cant even go to Thanksgiving dinner because you end up in some weird fight that is unnecessary, Walz said. Well, its true. These guys are just weird.

He said it again during a July 25 interview for Inside with Jen Psaki, also on MSNBC.

Its worth noting that by Minnesota Nice standards, calling someone weird is just about as derogatory as it can get.

The phrase stuck, with the Democratic Governors Association (which is led by Walz) quoting it on social media in July, and other Democratic leaders  including fellow Harris ticket short-lister Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro  also using the term.

Soon after, Harris campaign began incorporating the word weird into official press releases and videos.

One news release from July 25 described Trump as old and quite weird. Another a day later started simply: JD Vance is weird.

As for the origins of Walzs catchphrase, Brian McClung  a former top aide to ex-GOP presidential candidate and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty  told Axios that the phrases staying power had to do with being at the right place at the right time.

Walz was able to seize that moment and find a way to message for Democrats when theyre so desperately seeking a newer and clearer way to push back on Trump-Vance, he said. [To] get out there and talk like a Minnesota dad  To have something like that take off in that way  kudos to Gov. Walz.
An ornate first-floor room with a chandelier is shown in a historic North Philadelphia mansion that Father Divine's Peace Mission is putting up for auction on Aug. 28. Read more

Another notable property in North Philadelphias mansion district is set to be sold off this month.

The historic 35,000-square-foot house at 1530 N. 16th St. is one of the neighborhoods few surviving mansions built in the late 19th century for the citys manufacturing tycoons.

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Its a mansion in a neighborhood where people dont really live in mansions anymore and havent in decades, said Paul Steinke, executive director of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia and admirer of the architectural beauty of the late-Victorian, Italianate home.

The property will be the second historic North Philly mansion built around 1890 to be sold in just over a year by the International Peace Mission Movement, the religious organization founded by a charismatic civil rights leader who claimed to be God and whose followers called him Father Divine.

 READ MORE: Reviving Father Divine: Can a new documentary and museum save the dying Peace Mission movement? (From 2017)

The two mansions that the Peace Mission bought more than 70 years ago were part of a Philadelphia real estate portfolio that spanned North Philadelphia, Graduate Hospital, and West Philadelphia. The organization once owned such properties as the iconic Divine Lorraine, which it operated as the citys first racially integrated hotel.

As the Peace Missions membership has dwindled, the organization has been selling off its properties one by one. After the scheduled Aug. 28 auction of the mansion on North 16th Street, the organizations only remaining property in Philadelphia will be the Circle Mission Church, Home and Training School at Broad and Catharine Streets. The Peace Missions last stronghold is the Woodmont mansion, a National Historic Landmark on 73 acres in Gladwyne.

In the preservation community, weve long anticipated that the [Peace] Mission would eventually start to downsize their real estate portfolio, Steinke said. But he said he was sad to see the organization moving on.

Theyve been fantastic stewards of so many landmark properties for so many years, he said. Its really an amazing legacy that theyve owned and managed these properties for as long as they have and took such great care of them for so long.

The mansion on North 16th Street is part of the North Broad Street Mansion District on the National Register of Historic Places. And since 1971, it has been listed on Philadelphias historic register, a designation that protects the building from demolition. The homes first owner was Albert Disston of the Philadelphia-based Disston Saw Co.

In May 2023, the Peace Mission auctioned off a mansion a few blocks away to Rohr Chabad, a Jewish studies center. Rohr Chabad paid about $1.4 million for the mansion built by streetcar magnate Charles E. Ellis at 1430 N. Broad St., just south of Temple Universitys main campus. The new owner is advertising the Ellis mansion, which Philadelphia historically designated in 2018, as an office building for lease.

 READ MORE: Broad Street mansion associated with Father Divine is sold at auction

The Disston mansion as the Bible Institute

The Peace Mission used the Disston mansion as a residence and a place to host banquets, religious services, talks, and Bible classes. Members called it the Bible Institute, and it was a branch of the groups Unity Mission Church, Home and Training School.

Lois Kukcinovich, a 93-year-old former member of the Peace Mission, used to play piano in the mansions main dining room during banquets. The Chicago native joined the group with her mother at 5 years old, was renamed Victory Love, and moved to Philadelphia in 1945 to live with other members and Father Divine at the Peace Missions property at Broad and Catharine Streets.

Kukcinovich said her mother upholstered furniture for the Bible Institute and worked there as a cook. The North Philadelphia resident hasnt been inside in decades but remembers going into all those different rooms, the stained-glass windows, and the furniture.

I know there was something really beautiful about the antiques, she said.

Kukcinovich left the organization at 25 to get married, which the Peace Mission did not allow. Since the organization doesnt have many followers left, auctioning off the building makes sense, Kukcinovich said. Its too bad they couldnt have sold it before, so people could have enjoyed that money.

The organization now has fewer than two dozen members, said Alan B. LeCoff, an associate at the firm Barry S. Slosberg Inc., which is auctioning the Disston mansion and has auctioned four other Peace Mission properties in Philadelphia.

Inside the Disston mansion

The four-story Disston mansion was one of the few homes designed by the prominent church architect Edwin Forrest Durang.

Its truly a marvel, LeCoff said. Its gonna sell. Its just a matter of how much its going to sell for.

Notable features of the mansion include marble floors, 18-foot doors, crystal chandeliers, hand-painted mural ceilings, banquet rooms, a catering kitchen, and an auditorium. The homes large and intricate fireplace mantels could very well cost $20,000 a piece, LeCoff said. Theyre that elaborate.

In 2018, two nearly 8-foot-tall stained-glass windows thought to date back to the mansions construction were stolen. They were recovered and have been stored at the Woodmont mansion in Gladwyne. Those stained-glass windows will be included in the sale of the mansion, which has at least 19 total.

A few Peace Mission members lived in the mansion up until a few years ago, but the organization is looking forward to having this property transformed and transferred to someone who can care for it, LeCoff said. They know its time to let go.

What happens next?

When the on-site auction happens this month, Steinke of the Preservation Alliance said, the best-case scenario would be a buyer whos interested in the building for its history and architecture. He said a new owner is most likely to want the property for residential use.

A lot of us who care about these things hope that whoever buys it at auction will retain and maintain the historic interior, which we understand is almost perfectly intact from the original, Steinke said.

The mansions spot on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places does not protect its interior.

On a block with boarded-up buildings and an overgrown lot, the property was well maintained, said Louis Massiah, noted documentary filmmaker, founder of Scribe Video Center, and lifelong resident of the neighborhood. He called the mansion a work of art.

Its complicated because the Disston house really comes out of 19th-century capitalist privilege, Massiah said. He said the Peace Mission gave the property more of a connection to the community  a connection that should be extended by turning the mansion into a community asset that includes some kind of public use.

I hope it can be well used by people. People that need a place to live, Massiah said. This is an opportunity to both preserve the house and the heritage but also make it accessible and usable and something the community feels a greater sense of claim over.
Previously known as Professional Development meetings, we decided to change the structure of these events to a more casual and open forum environment where our ARs can take part in the discussions and share their opinions, ideas, and feedback. This creates a more valuable experience for all involved and ensures Ausure continues to develop tools and initiatives with our ARs needs in mind, he said.
He compared a review of similar scope, also undertaken by his committee, that looked at competition across the economy. Mulino said 44 recommendations came out of that inquiry and all of them were adopted unanimously.
Research has shown that loneliness is a risk factor for poor health, wellbeing, and lower workplace productivity. As a health and life insurer, we recognise the importance of making an ongoing pledge to combat loneliness. Raising awareness about this social issue and providing much-needed support needs to occur each and every week, not just during Loneliness Awareness Week, he said.
Our expert local underwriters are still available behind the scenes, providing personalised support and handling of referrals or queries, he said. The broker market has responded positively to our bindIT broker platform, and we have added professional indemnity in response to their needs.
She also held a role at Tokio Marine Holdings, where she designed cyber scenarios and delivered technical training. Gruens earlier positions included roles at HSBC and Digital Shadows in London, and in the Department of the Australian Prime Minister. She holds an MSc from the London School of Economics.
As part of its transformation, Ambac will be initiating a share repurchase program of up to US$50 million, with the move considered a reflection of the companys view that the current share price of its stock does not capture its P&C platforms go-forward value after the sale of Ambac Assurance Corporation to Oaktree Capital Management.
Commenting on the leadership appointment, Ron Lockton highlighted Ryans ability to lead and innovate. I am excited that Tim has accepted this role, and I have no doubt that our US business will thrive and continue its impressive growth and success under his leadership and enterprise-wide vision. Tim has demonstrated his ability to lead, innovate, and collaborate throughout his career at Lockton, and he embodies our culture and values. He is the ideal person to lead the US business through its next chapter, he said.
If we experience bad storms, we could be thrown back into a hard market like 2023, making placements difficult. On the other hand, if there are no major storms, the market will continue to soften, and well need to work hard to explore every option as existing and new markets release capacity, said Beazley. He noted that there are new managing general agents (MGAs) and Lloyds syndicates opening domestically and adding fresh capacity.
Norwegian salmon farmers face challenges from an unusually harsh winter and the El Nino climate phenomenon which led to record fish mortality and concerns over long-term forecasts ahead of a warmer summer.

El Nino  a climate pattern raising temperatures across the planet  followed by colder waters and a 20-year high in jellyfish attacks have driven fish mortality to a record 16.7% so far this year, the Norwegian Veterinary Institute said.

This winter has been something close to a perfect storm for the industry when it comes to challenging farming conditions, Carnegie analyst Philip Scrase said.

Norway, the largest producer of farmed Atlantic salmon, accounting for 50% of the global market, hopes for a healing summer after a tough first half of the year.

But record high temperatures and warmer waters increase the threat of sea lice for salmon farmers.

Treating sea lice (vaccines) often stresses the fish, posing a threat to its welfare and its resilience to other diseases, DNB analyst Alexander Aukner said.

To protect the fish, companies like Leroy Seafood are testing special underwater cages deep in the sea to keep the lice at bay.

Farmers are also keeping young salmon longer in land-based facilities to shield them from harsh climate conditions, though this has not improved mortality rates.

Some facilities are running at too high temperatures, causing fish to outgrow their organs and die when they enter seawater, said Christian Olsen Nordby and Kristoffer Haugland from Arctic Securities.

Export Ban, Processing Jam

Salmon exports make up about 2% of Norways annual GDP, with 1.2 million tonnes of salmon valued at $11.2 billion exported last year, Norwegian Seafood Council said.

To protect the industrys reputation, Norway has banned the export of wounded fish, classified as low-grade salmon.

This forces farmers to increase domestic processing of low-grade salmon into premium products like filets or smoked goods that they can sell abroad legally.

Before the ban, unprocessed fish bypassed tariff barriers to reach European markets, but now farmers need to sell the surplus injured fish at a discount to third-party processors, Scrase said.

Those with fileting capacity, like SalMar, meanwhile face inefficiencies in their facilities due to a lack of workers needed to handle the higher volumes.

To tackle this, worlds largest producer Mowi and smaller rival Grieg Seafood are upgrading their processing facilities.

However, Scrase noted that salmon spot prices were sliding, as the availability of premium salmon eases supply constraints.

Enough for a Guidance Cut

Despite farmers efforts, analysts doubt the industrys ability to maintain harvest volumes.

SalMar lowered its 2024 volume guidance earlier this year, while other major players have kept projections unchanged.

Kontali, an aquaculture data provider, has revised its 2024 volume growth estimate for Norway and the global market to just 1%, reflecting lower sea biomass.

Aukner and Scrase expect many farmers to struggle to meet their volume targets this year, though the summer is crucial to determine full-year volumes.

We are yet to see material downgrades in harvest volumes, but the buffer in volume guidance has definitely been eaten into and reduced, Nordby and Haugland said.

($1 = 10.9335 Norwegian crowns)

(Reporting by Jesus Calero in Gdansk; editing by Milla Nissi)

Topics Agribusiness
China Evergrande Groups liquidators have launched court proceedings against PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, another legal step to recover at least a fraction of creditors investments from the property giant.

Lawyers of liquidators have started legal actions against PwC and PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP, the global auditors mainland China arm, according to Hong Kong court documents seen by Bloomberg. The lawsuit was filed in March and recently made public.

The legal move comes along with liquidators attempt to recover $6 billion in dividends and remuneration from seven defendants including Evergrandes founder Hui Ka Yan, former chief executive officer Xia Haijun, former chief financial officer Pan Darong and Huis ex-wife Ding Yumei, according to a filing earlier this week.

China Weighs Record Fine for PwC Over Evergrande Audit Work

PwC has been in the spotlight for its role in Evergrandes accounting, after Chinese authorities launched an investigation into one of the biggest financial frauds in history. Authorities earlier this year said it would impose a 4.18 billion yuan ($584 million) fine against Evergrandes main unit, Hengda. Regulators said the firm overstated its revenue by 564 billion yuan in the two years through 2020.

A collapse as large as China Evergrande severely undermines investors confidence in the system, and the only way to restore it is to have a transparent autopsy, said Pingyang Gao, an accounting and law professor at the business school of the University of Hong Kong. He added that the liquidators legal actions and court proceedings will help with that process.

PwC Zhong Tian, a Shanghai-registered firm that is part of PwCs global network, was Hengdas auditor during the period in question. The firm served as Evergrandes auditor for more than a decade until it resigned in January 2023 due to what the developer said were audit-related disagreements.

Evergrande paid 389 million yuan in auditing and other fees to PwC from 2009 to 2022, according to calculations based on the developers annual reports.

Liquidators launched court proceedings against PwCs negligence and misrepresentation in auditing work. The claim relates to PwCs reports on Evergrandes financial statement for 2017 and the first six months of 2018, according to the filing. Thats ahead of the 2019 and 2020 period, during which Chinese securities regulators said the developer overstated its revenue.

Another court document filed in June showed that assets linked to Hui include two yachts, two Rolls-Royce Phantom cars, three planes, four luxury homes in Hong Kong and properties in London and Los Angeles.

The liquidators also started court proceedings against global commercial real estate services company CBRE Group Inc. and advisory group Avista Valuation Advisory over valuation reports they produced for Evergrande and its subsidiaries in 2018, according to a separate court document seen by Bloomberg.

China has been weighing a record fine on PwC, which is likely at least 1 billion yuan, people familiar said in May.

Photo credit: Bloomberg

Related:

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.

Topics China
This edition of International People Moves details appointments at Markel and Howden Re.

A summary of these new hires follows here.

Markel Appoints 2 Key Hires for International Casualty Team

Markel, the insurance operations within Markel Group, 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 hires will work within the companys International Casualty team and report to Graeme Ivory, director, International Casualty.

In his new position, Hannaford will support the development and build-out of Markels 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 insurers 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 maintaining high service levels for broker 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 Lloyds, 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 Amlins international casualty division for six years, during which time he received two promotions in short succession from underwriting assistant to underwriter, international casualty.

***

Howden Re Taps Gruen From AXIS as Head of Cyber Threat Intelligence

Howden Re, the reinsurance and risk advisory arm of insurance broker Howden, announced it has appointed cyber risk specialist, Harriet Gruen, as head of Cyber Threat Intelligence, based in London.

Gruen joins Howden Re with eight years of cyber industry experience, the four most recent of which were at global insurers. As a senior cyber risk advisor at AXIS Capital in London she helped list the first 144A cyber catastrophe bond and led investor education on cyber risk.

Previously, she was a cyber risk specialist at Tokio Marine Holdings, where she designed cyber scenarios and delivered technical training. Gruen also worked at both HSBC and Digital Shadows in London in the Strategic Security Threat and Cyber Threat teams, respectively, and in the Department of the Australian prime minister. She has a Master of Science from the London School of Economics.

Howden Re said it has been building its cyber reinsurance practice over the last 14 months to develop an industry-leading offering. Senior hires in addition to Gruen include:

Luke Foord-Kelcey joined Howden Re in October 2023 to build out the practice as global head of Cyber. He joined after seven years at Aon Reinsurance where was global head of Cyber, and has nearly 20 years experience in various roles in the cyber market.

joined Howden Re in October 2023 to build out the practice as global head of Cyber. He joined after seven years at Aon Reinsurance where was global head of Cyber, and has nearly 20 years experience in various roles in the cyber market. Matthew Webb joined in May 2023 as head of Cyber Clients & Strategy. Webb joined from Hiscox where he held roles such as group head of Cyber and leading its syndicate cyber portfolio as line underwriter.

joined in May 2023 as head of Cyber Clients & Strategy. Webb joined from Hiscox where he held roles such as group head of Cyber and leading its syndicate cyber portfolio as line underwriter. Mark Lynch joined Howden Re in October 2023 as head of Cyber Data & Analytics from Aon Reinsurance, where he had been head of Cyber Innovation & Capital.

joined Howden Re in October 2023 as head of Cyber Data & Analytics from Aon Reinsurance, where he had been head of Cyber Innovation & Capital. Toby Lampier joined in July 2023 as head of Cyber Broking & Markets, having previously been at Aon for nearly 10 years, including six years in cyber reinsurance.

joined in July 2023 as head of Cyber Broking & Markets, having previously been at Aon for nearly 10 years, including six years in cyber reinsurance. Jack Sandford joined Howden Re in October 2023 as a director in cyber reinsurance, and previously had held roles at Aon and Canopius in cyber reinsurance and catastrophe risk, respectively.

Topics Cyber New Markets Casualty
Summers in New York City are difficult for Anthony Gay and his family. A small, portable air conditioner in his bedroom is the only relief they have from soaring temperatures in their Brooklyn rental.

The rest of the apartment is literally unbearable to walk through, said Gay, 40, whose asthmatic son struggles to breathe in the heat.

Heat can be a killer. An estimated 350 New Yorkers die prematurely each year because of extreme heat, according to the citys 2024 Heat-Related Mortality Report. Lack of access to air conditioning at home is the most important risk factor in such deaths, it said.

Yet, across the United States, about 12 percent of homes  or about 12.7 million households  had no access to air conditioning in 2020, according to the most recent government data. Many more had some air conditioning, like Gay, but not enough to beat the heat.

Most often, homes with little or no air conditioning are occupied by low-income residents  often renters  and people of color, a 2022 Boston University analysis of 115 U.S. metro areas found.

That leaves them vulnerable as climate change makes heatwaves more frequent, more intense and longer lasting. Heat stress now kills more people globally each year than any other weather-related cause, according to the World Health Organization  and many of these deaths occur indoors.

A Reuters survey of housing regulations in all 50 U.S. states found that, while nearly half of them require landlords to maintain existing air conditioning units, none require that air-conditioning be provided. Nor do rental housing regulations describe air-conditioning as an essential service like plumbing, heat and electricity.

However, a small but growing number of U.S. states, cities and counties have adopted legislation that impose maximum indoor temperature standards on rental housing.

In the last five years, six U.S. localities, including New Orleans and Clark County, Nevada, have adopted such cooling laws, compared with just seven in the previous two decades, according to Reuters review of property codes and interviews with more than a dozen policymakers and housing officials.

Now, Americas two largest population centers  New York City and Los Angeles County  as well as Austin, Texas, are proposing new indoor temperature maximums for renters.

New York is proposing a cap of 78 Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius), and Austin is considering 85 Fahrenheit (29 C), while L.A. County has yet to formalize its target. New York City and Austins proposals would require that landlords install cooling systems, given the difficulty of retrofitting old building stock to allow for better air flow and other passive measures.

The moves are setting up a showdown with powerful landlord lobbies.

Similar bills in other jurisdictions  California, Texas and Hot Springs, Arkansas  have failed in recent years after landlords groups told policymakers they would need to raise rents to compensate for the costs of upgrading home electrical systems and adding air conditioning.

The California Apartment Association landlord lobby does not support a cooling mandate until we can find a way to make sure that we dont knock out our electrical system and make the cost so exorbitant, said Debra Carlton, the groups executive vice president of state public affairs.

A 2022 statewide bill died following landlord push back. The California Legislature instead asked state experts to craft recommendations, which were published this June, suggesting an indoor maximum of 82 F (28 C) for newly-constructed units only.

A law in New York City might have a better chance as Mayor Eric Adams made establishing a summer indoor temperature policy by 2030 one of the goals for his administration. His office remains committed to the 2023 plan, a City Hall spokesperson told Reuters.

A bill proposed in July would require rental homes be kept at 78 F or lower once outside temperatures hit 82 F or above  a regular occurrence during New York summers.

If approved, the measure would impact some 750,000 renters who do not have air-conditioning, according to Council member Lincoln Restler, who sponsored the bill.

Theres an urgency to this legislation, he said. Heat is the No. 1 climate killer, and its only getting worse.

Restler said the bill would allow 4 years for landlords to make energy efficiency and electrical upgrades.

A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH

While air conditioning accounts for about 4 percent of the worlds total greenhouse gas emissions, which fuel climate change, research shows it also saves lives. A 2016 study estimated a 75 percent drop in the number of U.S. heat-related deaths on hot days during the latter half of the 20th century after AC was introduced, according to findings published in the Journal of Political Economy.

Heat-related deaths are undercounted globally, epidemiologists say. The United Nations, in a report this year, said that modeled estimates suggest that between 2000 and 2019, approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths occurred each year, with nearly half of those in Asia.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that heat-related deaths have been increasing, with approximately 2,302 in 2023 versus 1,602 two years previously. However, that data only includes death certificates that specifically mention heat and is regarded by many experts as a dramatic undercount.

One of the few places to track indoor and outdoor heat-related deaths is Maricopa County in Arizona, where temperatures regularly top 110 F (43 C). Despite two of its cities  Phoenix and Tempe  passing maximum indoor temperature laws, the county registered 156 indoor heat-related deaths last year, a five-fold increase over the last decade.

Although the trend is bleak, in 2023 Phoenix and Tempe fared better than cities in the county without cooling laws. Indoor deaths accounted for 21 percent of Phoenixs heat-related deaths and 17 percent of Tempes, compared with a county average of 24 percent  and more than 32 percent in the cities of Scottsdale and Mesa, public health data showed.

Record-breaking heat waves in recent years have spurred some new legislation.

Following the 2021 heat dome that hit the Pacific Northwest, the U.S. state of Oregon in 2022 and Spokane, Washington, in 2024 approved measures to limit landlords ability to stop tenants from installing their own air-conditioners over concerns about liability or utility bills.

But many of Americas warmest cities and states are struggling to pass laws on safe temperatures.

The Arkansas mountain city of Hot Springs last year abandoned a proposal for cooling standards in rental units after receiving complaints from landlord groups, said Phyllis Beard, a member of the citys board of directors.

In an August 2023 email sent to the board, reviewed by Reuters, Hot Springs landlords said the proposal would hurt the most vulnerable in our community by making affordable housing difficult if not impossible to provide.

Upgrading a single-family U.S. home to a central air-conditioning system generally costs between $5,000 and $10,000, according to figures from the American Society of Home Inspectors, while an in-window unit costs around $400 on top of electrical upgrades for older homes to support the unit. This can run between $2,000 and $3,000, the California Apartment Association said.

And while the Texas cities of Dallas, El Paso and Houston have set indoor temperature standards, a statewide bill stalled last year after opposition from the Texas Apartment Association, house representative Sheryl Cole told local media. The city of Austin is now mulling new rules.

In muggy Florida, Democratic State Senator Jason Pizzo, a real estate developer, said that he had spoken with Florida landlord associations and was confident his state would pass an air-conditioning requirement within the next two years, despite seeing four previous attempts fizzle since 2021.

Pizzo argued that, with Floridas mold-encouraging humidity, air-conditioning makes good economic sense, protecting not only a buildings residents but also the building itself: air-conditioning is a dehumidifying, property damage-protecting instrument.

The Florida Apartment Association, which says it represents more than three-quarters of apartment homes in the state, did not respond to a request for comment.

CLIMATE SHIFT

In L.A. County, the board of supervisors  its five-member governing body  is expected to vote later this year on a bill that could impact the countys 3.4 million households, more than half of whom are renters.

There once was a time where we realized that people dying of the cold indoors is something that we needed to regulate, said L.A. County supervisor Lindsey Horvath who put forward the motion. Many U.S. jurisdictions require that rental housing can meet minimum indoor temperatures: California state law stipulates a minimum of 70 F (21 C).

Now with the way that the climate has shifted, we also have to think about those higher [temperatures], she said.

By mid-century, central Los Angeles is expected to experience three times more days of temperatures above 95 F than it did between 1981 and 2000.

Some California tenant groups worried that passing laws to force apartment upgrades could lead to evictions followed by higher rents  as the states eviction law allows landlords to remove tenants if a home renovation requires a permit and will take more than 30 days or is considered unsafe.

L.A. County landlord associations also said they were gearing up to fight, and cited reasons from costs to liability to esthetics.

Poorly installed window AC units could fall on people, Daniel Yukelson, executive director of the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles, told Reuters. He also criticized such window units as kind of unsightly.

Cooling laws adopted in the U.S. to date https://reut.rs/4dawVeh

(Reporting by Gloria Dickie in London; Editing by Katy Daigle and Daniel Flynn)

Topics USA
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.

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.

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.

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
AT&T Inc. (T) dates back to the invention of the telephone by Alexander Graham Bell. It's one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world.

AT&T operates as a holding company with subsidiaries and affiliates that operate globally in the telecommunications, media, and technology industries. It offers wireless network services, video, and voice communications services. It produces and distributes feature films, television, and other content, as well as advertising services.

The top shareholders of AT&T are David McAtee, Jeremy Legg, Michael McAllister, Vanguard Group Inc., BlackRock Inc. (BLK), and State Street Corp. (STT).

AT&T's 12-month trailing revenue (TTM) was $$122.197 billion as of August 2024. Its 12-month trailing net income was $12.52 billion at that time. The company's market cap was about $135.66 billion in August 2024.

Key Takeaways AT&T operates as a holding company with subsidiaries and affiliates that operate globally in the telecommunications, media, and technology industries.

The top individual shareholders of AT&T are David McAtee, Jeremy Legg, and Michael McAllister.

The top institutional AT&T shareholders are Vanguard Group Inc., BlackRock Inc., and State Street Corp.

The company's market cap was about $135.66 billion in August 2024.

Top 3 Individual Insider Shareholders

This list reflects direct ownership. It doesn't include indirect ownership of shares or shares that are accessible through stock options.

The term "insider" refers to people in senior management positions and members of the board of directors, as well as people or entities that own more than 10% of the company's stock. It has nothing to do with insider trading in this context.

David R. McAtee, II

David McAtee owned 727,079 AT&T shares as of July 26, 2024.

McAtee serves as AT&T's senior executive vice president. He's been with AT&T since 2012 and was appointed general counsel in 2015. McAtee's career includes roles as an executive committee member for the State Bar of Texas and senior law clerk to U.S. District Judge Jerry Buchmeyer. He was a partner of the Haynes and Boone, LLP law firm in Dallas specializing in complex litigation and government investigations.



Jeremy Alan Legg

Jeremy Legg held 321,148 shares of AT&T as of June 14, 2024.

Legg holds the position of chief technology officer for AT&T. The company says that he's helping to "modernize its legacy IT infrastructure and migrate as much of it as possible to the cloud while retiring outdated systems." Legg worked as executive vice president and CTO for WarnerMedia before joining AT&T in 2020.



Michael B. McAllister

Michael McAllister owned 69,076 shares of AT&T as of June 28, 2024.

McAllister has served on AT&T's board of directors since 2013 after retiring as chairman and a board member of Humana, Inc., a healthcare company in Kentucky. He's a member of AT&T's audit and human resources committees.

Top 3 Institutional Shareholders

Institutional investors hold over half of AT&T's shares at 59.48% of the total shares outstanding as of August 2024.

Vanguard Group Inc.

Vanguard Group owned 624.99 million shares of AT&T as of March 31, 2024.

The company is primarily a mutual fund and ETF management company. The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is one of the company's largest exchange-traded funds (ETFs) with about $1.179 trillion in assets under management (AUM) as of August 2024.

BlackRock Inc.

BlackRock owned 533.05 million shares of AT&T as of March 31, 2024.

The iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV) is one of BlackRock's largest ETFs with approximately $490.72 billion in AUM.

State Street Corp.

State Street owns 311.13 million shares of AT&T as of March 31, 2024.

This company is primarily a manager of mutual funds, ETFs, and other assets. The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) is one of State Street's largest ETFs with approximately $526.58 billion in AUM in August 2024.

Diversity and Inclusiveness of AT&T

As part of our effort to improve the awareness of the importance of diversity in companies, we offer investors a glimpse into the transparency of more than just who the shareholders are at AT&T. We highlight the company's commitment to diversity, inclusiveness, and social responsibility as a whole.

Find out how AT&T reports the diversity of its management and workforce. The  shows if AT&T discloses its data about the diversity of its board of directors, C-Suite, general management, and employees overall across a variety of markets.
When the Factor Druk printing press in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv was hit by a Russian missile on May 23, it struck at the very heart of the embattled countrys literary culture. Seven employees were killed, 21 were injured, and 50,000 books were destroyed in the attack on the printing facility, the largest in Ukraine and one of the biggest in Europe.

For Louisa Cameron, owner of Raven Books in Blackrock, Co Dublin, the news was particularly devastating, as she had visited Ukraine just weeks before to facilitate the delivery of a consignment of books and also meet with representatives of PEN Ukraine, which represents writers and publishers in the country.

Cameron says she felt she had to do something to support libraries in the country after speaking to some of her Ukrainian customers.

Through them, I got in touch with a few librarians in Ukraine to figure out what they needed and wanted. I brought 30 boxes of books for children, from tots to teens, for distribution to libraries in need.

The books were sent on ahead and Cameron flew to Poland, crossing from there to Ukraine, with the help of Mariusz, who she describes as an absolute hero.

He took delivery of the books and about a week later picked me up at Krakow Airport and drove me across the border. His grandmother was Ukrainian so he has been back and forth delivering supplies.

"We stopped in a little village there first of all, they had a lovely library as part of a cultural centre. I met the librarian there who was incredible, and I showed her all the books. I pulled out Gullivers Travels, a beautiful illustrated edition from OBrien Press and I just saw the expression change on her face. She told me it was on their school curriculum.

Locals try to salvage books after a Russian missile strike in Kharkiv. Picture: Sergey Bobok/AFP

Cameron then travelled to Lviv, where she visited another library. The librarians I met were bursting with enthusiasm, creativity, and obvious care for the kids in their communities. It was a joy to hand them bulging bags of books, she says.

Of the 50,000 books destroyed in the missile attack, a significant proportion were school textbooks which were due to be delivered for the new academic year. The US recently pledged to bridge the gap by financing the printing of more than three million schoolbooks. Cameron says that while the Ukrainians she spoke to are weary of the ongoing conflict, their response to the attack shows their determination and resilience. They are already working on getting the factory back up and running, she says.

According to the Ukrainian Book Institute, Russia has destroyed 172 libraries and nearly two million books since 2022.

In the occupied areas, they are literally burning books, taking anything in the Ukrainian language and destroying it. The idea of it is just awful, says Cameron.

In the midst of this turmoil, Ukrainians have turned to reading in even greater numbers, something Cameron witnessed on her visit there.

They have a very strong and rich literary culture of which they are very proud. It has always been important but there has been a massive cultural renaissance since February 2022. I visited a couple of bookshops in Kyiv which were amazing. It was 8.30pm at night and the place was buzzing, full of young people. Kyiv has air defence, but since I left their power grids were hit which has led to rolling blackouts, she says.

During her visit, Cameron also met Maksym Sytnikov, deputy executive director of the Kyiv-based chapter of PEN International, and handed over a letter of solidarity from PEN Ireland. In the attack, PEN Ukraine had lost the entire print run of a book, Words and Bullets, which was due to launch the following week. The event went ahead as scheduled, as Cameron poignantly puts it, a book launch without a book.

Cameron covered her own costs for the trip, and while some of the books that she delivered in Ukraine were donated, the crowdfunder to cover the costs of the rest is still ongoing; any amount over the target sum will go directly to PEN Ukraine for their support of the libraries, she says.

She sees her visit and the donation of books as a small gesture but one that was greatly appreciated by all those she met in Ukraine.

"Books in English may not be the most urgent thing the Ukrainian people need right now but it was what I was asked for and able to provide. It may be only a tiny brightness in the darkness of war, but what a light it is to know that children thousands of miles away might find comfort in stories that started their journey in Ireland.
Theres nothing like a bit of sun to start the ball rolling in your head about dreams of early retirement. This is often something discussed at length in the summer when the call of the beach urges people away from their laptops. Oh the joy to have the freedom from work everyday.

As lovely as early retirement sounds, it is all very well until the end of the month rolls in and goes by without wages coming in. For many, early retirement could be a pipedream but according to the experts there are ways you can plan to ensure that you retire somewhat earlier than you expected.

Glenn Gaughran, head of business development with the Independent Trustee Company, says firstly start with your annual pension statement. He says that if you are a member of a company pension scheme, this document will allow you to find out the pension you will be entitled to in retirement based on your contributions so far and what youre currently paying into your pension.

He says that for anyone in a defined contribution pension scheme through work, they will have the advantage of a matching contribution from their boss and they should make the most of this.

For example, if your employer would pay matching contributions up to 10% of your salary, you should seriously consider paying 10% of your salary into your pension so that you can get your employers 10% contribution as well. This would bring the total value of the contributions going into your pension to 20%, which would make it much easier for you to build up a reasonable pension pot by the time you retire.

You could even pay more than your employers maximum contribution while still getting the benefit of it. Be sure, however, not to pay more into your pension than you can get tax relief on.

Mark Reilly, Pensions Proposition Lead with Royal London Ireland, says that people often underestimate the amount of money they will need in retirement, adding that the money in your pension pot may have to last 20 or more years.

Understand what you will need to finance your regular or discretionary expenses, as well as possible healthcare costs when you may no longer be receiving a regular income. It is recommended you aim to have an annual income equivalent to between 50% and 66% of your final salary on retirement, but you may need more or less than this, depending on your own financial circumstances, he says.

There are tools available to allow you to estimate the contributions you need to pay into your pension to reach your target and the Pensions Authority has a useful calculator on its website.

Mr Reilly says workers should take advantage of tax relief on pension contributions and any company pension scheme available to them.

With some defined contribution work pension schemes, the more you pay into your pension, the more your employer will pay. Saving extra money into your pension through Additional Voluntary Contributions can also boost your pension, he adds.

Jonathan Roche-Kelly, director with Financial Services for Gallagher in Ireland, says it is vital that self-employed workers plan for retirement as they dont have the advantage of an employer-sponsored pension scheme. Also self-employed individuals dont have an employer paying contributions into a pension scheme on their behalf.

It can sometimes be difficult for the self-employed to commit to pension savings, particularly if they need to pour a lot of their money into getting their business off the ground or if their self-employed income is inconsistent. However, saving a small amount regularly and from early on in your career will help boost your pension, he says.

Paul Murray, director of Quest Retirement Solutions, says that if you are dissatisfied with the performance of your pension fund, you might consider switching to another one.

It is crucial to evaluate your pension funds performance with a long-term perspective rather than based on its performance over a year or two, he says. Your pension provider can supply historical data on the investment performance of your fund. Generally, if the fund is performing well, your pension savings should grow over time.

Mr Murray says that generally, the further away from retirement you are, the more scope you have with your pension investments in terms of risk.

Another option to set yourself up for early retirement would be to consider overpaying on your mortgage.

Trevor Grant, chairperson of the Association of Irish Mortgage Advisors (AIMA), says that while it may seem counterintuitive to part with more money than your monthly mortgage payment requires, this prudent financial move can save you thousands or even tens of thousands in the long run.

As you make extra payments, you reduce the outstanding balance more quickly, which means youll own your home outright sooner. This not only reduces your financial obligations in retirement but also offers peace of mind knowing that you wont have a mortgage hanging over your head during your golden years.
Irish taekwondo athlete Jack Woolley will take on Azerbaijans Gashim Magomedov just after 10.45am this morning at the Paris Olympics. He can go all the way and win a medal, but also knows it could be all over after just one fight.

Here are five things you need to know about Irelands taekwondo Olympian.

Who is Jack Woolley?

Jack Woolley is from Tallaght in Dublin. He is 25 years old, turning 26 in September.

He was one of the first to qualify for his sport in Tokyo, but was knocked out in the round of 16 by Argentinian Lucas Guzman.

He has come back stronger, however, securing one of only 16 worldwide spots in his class for the Paris Olympics.

Olympic journey

Reflecting on the 2021 games, he said it didnt go to plan but it did make him appreciate things a lot more.

He said he put a lot of pressure on himself in Tokyo and was feeling very stressed as he was the first person in Ireland to go an Olympics in this sport.

It felt like there was a lot of pressure on me to put a good image of the sport out to the Irish public, he told the Irish Times.

Jack Woolley put a lot of pressure on himself in Tokyo. Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

For Paris, though, he has a much more positive mindset.

Im going to go into these Games to enjoy it, have the best experience, and thats the only way Im going to come away with a medal.

Weight struggles

With combat sports, weight is big issue, with some athletes often feeling forced to take drastic measures. Woolley must weigh in at under 58kg  or approximately nine stone  the day before fights. He stands at 5 11, which means he has a complicated relationship with the scales.

His relationship with food has been terrible since he was young.

Growing up, my mam always had issues with me eating, because I was always skinny. Its not healthy at all. But its something that Im working on. I have a nutritionist and a psychologist, and I deal with weight a lot better now.

There was a period of time where it got stressful. Because it was eating me alive, forgive the pun. It was just all I could think about. Any time I got asked a question, it might not be about the weight, but Id always bring it back to the weight just because it was containing my life.

Now I have a much better handle on it, a better relationship with food. I wouldnt say its the best, but I also wouldnt say its anywhere near what it used to be. A lot of young athletes find it the hardest part. Theres a period of time where youre going through puberty, youre trying to figure out things. Especially in young girls, its a big issue.

Something I look forward to, when I do retire, is never standing on a weighing scales again.

Dublin attack

In August 2021, just five days after the Tokyo Olympics had ended, Woolley was assaulted by a gang of 8 to 12 men and women in Dublin.

The Tallaght man took to Instagram to show the injuries he sustained.

In the post, he said that he was crossing the street after enjoying a night out with friends when he was punched in the mouth.

He was walking along the boardwalk at the River Liffey when the gang began violently attacking people.

"Unfortunately I was victim to these random attacks as I was just walking by, before I was punched in the face by one of these group members, he said. The Olympian said he was punched once, before being told "my mistake wrong person", as the group then ran off.

"Luckily, I was able to phone an ambulance and stay conscious," he said on social media, adding that his friends stayed with him and helped him.

Woolley, who was just 22 at the time, had to undergo surgery after the incident, and had received an outpouring of support online from fellow Olympians such as Kellie Harrington, politicians and fans.

"Don't worry about me. I'll be alright," he said at the time as he thanked the thousands of people who had reached out to him.

Partner

Woolley also met his partner, Dave, in the wake of the Tokyo Olympics.

The couple headed to Tenerife just weeks before the Paris games kicked off, with Woolley posting on Instagram that they were back in their happy place.

He told the Irish Times that Dave, a personal trainer, was the best thing that has ever happened to him.

Of course, I love being an Olympian, but I never thought Id have this type of relationship, with the sport, because its very hard to balance, being constantly away, stuff like that.

My mam has this story about when she first met my dad, came home and my nana rolled her eyes and said, Oh no, here we go! And my mam said she had the same moment with me when I came home after meeting him for the first time.

It was the right time. Maybe I didnt go into it expecting anything, as much as it happened. There were a crazy few months after Tokyo for me, so just to have somebody there that cared, and actually cared. Woolley said the relationship helps to keep him in line whenever he feels a bit overwhelmed.
A decision by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to strike down a challenge to French prostitution legislation similar to Irish law has been hailed a real victory for victims and survivors of prostitution and sex trafficking by an Irish sexual exploitation researcher.

The European Court of Human Rights ruled against a challenge to the French law, which outlaws the purchase of sexual access to the body of another person.

Director the UCD-based Sexual Exploitation Research Programme Ruth Breslin said the decision was an important endorsement of the equality model of legislation, which is the only model that has been shown to be effective in reducing the horrendous exploitation and gross human rights violations perpetrated in the sex trade.

France introduced this legislative model in 2016, followed by Ireland in 2017, she said.

A lobby in support of the sex trade and its profiteers brought this challenge to the French law all the way to the ECHR, but ultimately it has failed. This represents a real victory for victims and survivors of prostitution and sex trafficking around the globe, whose lives have been scarred by sexual exploitation.

The ECHR decision comes as work is under way in the Department of Justice to complete a review of Irelands sex trade laws.

The ECHR decision comes as work is under way in the Department of Justice to complete a review of Irelands sex trade laws.

At present, under the Sexual Offences Act 2017, those who offer their services as a sex worker are no longer committing an offence.

Part 4 of the legislation introduced two new offences  the payment for sexual activity with a prostitute, and paying for sexual activity with a trafficked person.

Under the legislation, a provision was also included for a review of the measures after three years. The terms of reference were published in July 2020.

The review is to include an assessment of the impact of the act on the welfare of those who engage in sexual activity for payment.

Earlier this year, it emerged through a reply from Justice Minister Helen McEntee to a parliamentary question put down by Independent TD Catherine Connolly that the department plans to finalise the review internally.

This was despite advertising last autumn for a replacement for the lead researcher on the project, Maura Butler, who stood down last summer.

The Department of Justice subsequently confirmed to the Irish Examiner that the review was being finalised by the departments data and research unit, with a plan to have it completed by the third quarter of this year.
A beautiful young woman smiled warmly from a framed photograph at the top of the crematorium, her coffin, laden with flowers, standing solemnly and incongruously behind it.

The funeral of Daena Walsh, the mother of two, aged 27, who was killed in her home in Midleton in East Cork last Friday, was held in her native Co Wicklow today.

Addressing mourners, her brother Paul said his sister was one in a million and he wouldnt change Daena for the world".

I just want to say some wonderful words about my sister Daena, Paul said.

I couldnt have asked for a better sister; she was one in a million. Daena was as mad as a brush and had a heart of gold.

Daena was such a beautiful sister that I will always look up to and love.

Paul said he would cherish memories of his sister in his heart forever.

Daena Walsh was a 'beautiful, loving, caring mam', said her brother Paul.

He promised to be there for Daenas two children and to remind them what a beautiful, loving, caring mam they had.

Mourners solemnly entered McCrea's Cremation Chapel in Wicklow town to the song Young, Wild and Free by Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa, following her funeral Mass at the Church of St Laurence O'Toole in Roundwood.

Mourners sat, heads bowed and shoulders slumped, in sorrow when another favourite song of Daena's, the upbeat and vivacious 'Dance Monkey' by Tones and I, was played.

People reached out and wrapped their arms around their neighbours heaving shoulders, holding each other as they sobbed when Hoziers 'Too Sweet' played as the curtains closed for the last time across Daenas coffin.

Daena is survived by her loving sons", her mother Caroline, brothers Paul, Robbie, Callum, and Noah, her death notice said.

A large crowd of mourners at the Church of St. Laurence O'Toole for the funeral of Daena Walsh. Picture: Colin Keegan/Collins Dublin

Her smile would light up the darkest room", one mourner wrote on RIP.ie.

Another wrote that she had been trying to build a better life for herself and her family.

She loved her two boys and she was a loving and caring mother," they wrote.

She "always brightened the room up when she would walk in".

The cortege makes its way to the crematorium, followed by family members, after the funeral of Daena Walsh. Picture: Colin Keegan/Collins Dublin

On Tuesday, her former partner, who has been charged with her murder, was further remanded in custody.

Adam Corcoran, aged 29, appeared via videolink from prison before Mallow District Court on Tuesday.

Inspector Tony OSullivan applied for him to be further remanded in continued custody until August 20 for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Judge Marie Keane remanded him to appear again via videolink on August 20.

Ms Walsh was found seriously injured in her flat at John Barry House in Midleton town centre shortly after 4pm on Friday. The young mother was pronounced dead at the scene.

Ms Walsh had been living in Cork but was originally from Roundwood in Co Wicklow.
A popular Cork priest and the driver of a bus which killed him in a horror accident in Cork will be remembered at a fundraising concert in the priests last parish this weekend.

Fr Con Cronin, 72, was leaving the Bosun restaurant in Monkstown on August 3, 2021, when a bus hit and fatally injured him. The bus driver, Ballincollig father of two Mark Wills, 51, had suffered a cardiac episode which also resulted in his death.

Fr Cronin, who was a native of Coomhola in Bantry, was a member of the St Patrick's Missionary Society for almost 49 years and had served as curate in Passage West since 2012.

On Saturday, August 10, a concert will take place in aid of St Vincent de Pauls local branch, in Ringaskiddy community centre, in memory of the popular priest. The event will get underway at 7.30pm.

One of the organisers, Mary Foley, said that Mr Wills will also be remembered on the night with a prayer.

At an inquest, CCTV footage had shown Mr Wills unresponsive at the wheel whilst the bus went out of control. The jury concluded that Mr Wills died of natural causes whilst a verdict of accidental death was recorded in relation to Fr Cronin.

'Uplifting'

On Saturday night, poetry, music and song will be performed by a number of performers who will give their time voluntarily. The theme of the event is inclusion and 100% of the proceeds will go to St Vincent de Paul.

Among those performing will be the Passage West Youth Choir, Passage West Community Choir, opera singer Louise OSullivan and Harbour Keys band. Local playwright and poet Anita Howard will also take part, along with a group of Irish dancers.

Ms Foley said: It will be uplifting as we dont want to be sad. Fr Con loved the bit of craic!

Ms Foley said that the event is the second such concert in memory of Fr Cronin and is among a number of other fundraisers organised in his memory. Among them was the production of a CD by the local youth choir which raised around 3,000 which was donated to the St Patricks Missionary Society for education projects in Fr Cronins former diocese of Minna in Nigeria.

A number of benches, each with a plaque inscribed with words of Fr Cronin, have also been placed in locations associated with the popular priest in his parish, and in Coomhola.

Ms Foley said: He will never be forgotten  we would do anything to bring him back, but of course we cant.

He was a wonderful man. There was something special about him, he was a people person. It was an honour and privilege to know him.

She added: We still cannot believe he is gone. When Fr Cronin died, there was a huge outpouring of grief and tributes for him.

They included messages of sympathy from all over the world, including from the Papal Nuncio, Reverend Jude Thaddeus Okolo, and the bishop of the Minna diocese in Nigeria which Fr Cronin helped establish during his near 25 years in West Africa.

Tickets can be purchased online here.
Look closely at the pictures of the violent unrest that has spread across England and Northern Ireland and you will notice something that is not being spoken about. The rioters seen fighting, attacking police and setting fire to buildings are often middle aged  people in their 40s, 50s and 60s, screaming racist abuse and fighting with police.

Of the 11 people arrested in Sunderland on August 3, four fit this demographic. One of the people arrested and charged was a 69-year-old male pensioner.

The radicalisation of middle-aged people is an emerging but overlooked phenomenon that has been brought to the fore by these riots, potentially because of the apparent link to the spread of misinformation online. As my ongoing research is finding, this group is vulnerable to being misled by fake news and conspiracy theories.

Middle-aged people are often bundled in with the over 50s as a group, which includes the very old  a demographic with whom they have little in common. The middle aged are not digital natives but they are online. And, crucially, they may actually be less informed about the dangers of online misinformation than younger people because they have not been the target of education in the same way. These days, significant effort is put in to educating young people about how to navigate the online world safely, but middle aged people missed the boat.

The middle-aged were introduced to the internet as adults and their understanding of the online sphere is largely self-taught and self-regulated. As a result, they can be poor decision makers when it comes to what to consume and what to believe. This exposure may lead people to make significant decisions, such as heading out to take part in violent unrest or attacking a mosque or a hotel housing asylum seekers, based on flawed or dishonest information that they have gathered on the internet.

People protest in Sunderland city centre following the stabbing attacks in Southport, in which three young children were killed.

When a group attacked a mosque in Southport their actions appeared to be based on the false idea that three children killed in the area the day previously had been attacked by a Muslim or an immigrant. In truth, the young man in custody over the attack is neither. Online misinformation and even disinformation therefore appears to have played a part.

Vulnerability to extremism

Our need to understand this middle-aged group and their vulnerability to extremism through social media was the driving force behind an EU-funded research project, currently in its second year. For the first time, researchers from across Europe are looking at people in their 40s to mid-60s to uncover what characteristics of social media and online content encourages them to go down the rabbit hole to extremism.

Older people are more likely to be politically engaged and are more likely to vote. And of this group, the roughly middle-aged portion are the most engaged. They are therefore influential. They also often have strong political views.

A burnt out car after disorder broke out in Sunderland.

But this group is somewhat invisible. People dont tend to think of them first when we talk about the housing crisis, the cost of living or the NHS. Young people have long been the target and focus of much of mainstream media and commerce, which has only accelerated since the advent of the internet. Adverts almost exclusively use young people to promote goods, to take one example. Its rare to see older people advertising anything that is not directly targeted to them. Despite their financial weight, products are not generally marketed to middle-aged people.

A whole swath of people are therefore being culturally excluded or sidelined.

Because of this youth focus across all aspects of society, we dont think of the middle-aged to be first in line to be radicalised online either. We have a tendency to picture young, impressionable people being led astray

Some were therefore surprised to see so many older people in the marauding crowds that have caused so much damage in England and Northern Ireland.

When groups of any kind are ignored, their feelings of exclusion and isolation make the fringes of the internet more appealing. Here, disgruntlement is fed and encouraged. People are invited to express their anger as they engage with peers of a similar age and socio-economic group.

They may seek recognition and influence by sharing content found in online forums and social media groups, or they may create it themselves. This content highlights their worldview or opinion, but is often backed up with spurious claims and pseudoscience. Despite this, their words are seen as legitimate by others with the same or similar viewpoint (their peers) and by younger people who respect their life experiences and are swayed by the apparent sincerity of their beliefs.

The middle-aged are generally invisible in the media and wider society, which means that they can encourage others to engage from the sidelines, while staying significantly below the radar of researchers and others who are trying to understand the growth of extremism online.

This raises concerns about the absence of targeted strategies and narratives to address the involvement of the middle-aged in extremist activities

The nature of the internet is that it contains greased data  information that moves quickly and is hard to hold on to, which ends up in all sorts of places, reaching all sorts of people. It is almost impossible to prevent the spread of untruths and misinformation. The viral nature of misinformation and propaganda, which is emotionally charged and sensationalist, makes it more likely to be shared.

In the hands of a group of people that has influence but may not be equipped with the skills of a digital native  and that flies under the radar among authorities who are concerned about radicalisation  this information can be potentially dangerous, as is being illustrated on Britains streets.

Sara H Wilford is associate professor in the School of Computer Science and Informatics at De Montfort University. The article appeared on The Conversation, a news and analysis website written by academics.
The ex-partner of Argentinas former president Alberto Fernandez has accused him of physically and emotionally abusing her, according to a court order.

The allegations shocked the country and threaten to further stain the reputation of the moderate leftist whose government many Argentines blame for deepening an economic crisis.

In the judicial order, the Buenos Aires federal court opened a criminal investigation into the accusations of psychological terrorism, phone harassment and physical abuse against Fernandez from Fabiola Yanez, his former partner of at least eight years and the mother of his second child.

The order said Ms Yanez, who testified by phone from her home in Madrid, has decided to press charges against Fernandez for threatening and psychologically intimidating her daily and causing her minor injuries in a context of gender-based violence.

The document did not give further details about her accusations of physical violence.

Fernandez, a left-leaning Peronist politician who was president of Argentina from 2019 to 2023, vigorously denied her allegations and promised he would prove to the courts what really happened.

Its false and what Im now being accused of never happened, he said in a statement posted on the social media platform X. He declined to say more to the media, citing his familys privacy.

In the ruling, Judge Julian Ercolini granted Yanez a restraining order that prevents the former president from coming within 500 yards of her and from contacting her.

The judge barred Fernandez from travelling outside Argentina, and demanded that he cease all forms of intimidation or harassment, both directly and indirectly toward Ms Yanez. The ruling also asked Argentine authorities to provide Ms Yanez with police protection.

The court order comes weeks after Ms Yanezs accusations first surfaced among thousands of leaked text messages under scrutiny by federal investigators in a separate embezzlement case against Fernandez.

That case accuses Fernandez of irregularities in awarding state insurance contracts  allegations he also denies.

In leaked texts exchanged with Fernandezs former private secretary, Maria Cantero, Ms Yanez recounted episodes of abuse and harassment that occurred when she was pregnant with her now two-year-old son, Francisco.

The court document seen by AP said Judge Ercolini contacted her about the revelations in June, but Ms Yanez did not wish to pursue criminal proceedings.

But she changed her mind and on Tuesday contacted the Buenos Aires court to press charges against the former president.

Under the Peronist administration of Fernandez and his vice president, the powerful populist former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, Argentina descended into its worst economic crisis in two decades with surging inflation and deepening poverty.

Fernandez, a former law professor, chose not to run in Argentinas 2023 election. Public outrage over the countrys tumbling fortunes helped propel the radical libertarian President Javier Milei to office.
A Polish man has been sentenced to four months in jail for assaulting Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, local media said, adding he will be expelled from the country.

The unidentified 39-year-old man has been charged with punching Ms Frederiksens right shoulder with a clenched fist in June, causing her to lose her balance but not fall.

Ms Frederiksen suffered whiplash at the time.

Danish broadcasters DR and TV2 said the sentence was issued at Copenhagen District Court.

Frederiksen was on a private break from the Social Democratic Partys campaign for the elections to renew the European Parliament when the assault took place on a busy Copenhagen plaza.

The 46-year-old Prime Minister, who has been in office since 2019, had been campaigning for her partys EU lead candidate, Christel Schaldemose, who was elected.

The attack was not linked to the campaign event. The assault happened as violence against politicians in Europe spread in the run-up to the European Union elections.

The man, who has been held in pre-trial 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.

Prosecutor Anders Larsson had demanded four months in jail for assaulting the prime minister and for exposing his private parts to passing people, saying his sexual acts were not gross but were certainly uncomfortable for those seeing it, according to DR.

His behaviour and demeanour are far removed from a citizen who should be in our society, Mr Larsson said in court, according to DR.
Visitors to corn mazes across North America are finding a familiar and joyous figure in the winding labyrinth of tall stalks  Snoopy.

More than 80 farms in the US and Canada have teamed up with Peanuts Worldwide to create Peanuts-themed mazes to celebrate the beloved strips 75th birthday this summer and autumn.

A massive Snoopy rests on top of his doghouse in a maze at Dulls Tree Farm in Thorntown, Indiana, and he is depicted gleefully atop a pumpkin at Downeys Farm in Caledon, Ontario.

All of these events helps keep my dads legacy alive, says Jill Schulz, an actor and daughter of Peanuts creator Charles M Schulz.

As someone who cant even keep houseplants alive, the fact that they can do that with a corn maze and get the artwork right and create a fun experience for all ages is pretty incredible, she adds, laughing.

A corn maze honouring the 75th anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip in Thorntown, Indiana. (Dana Dull via AP)

The mazes  which span 35 states and provinces, from California to New York, Ontario to Texas  are expected to attract more than two million visitors.

Farmers are signing up for the free service because the mazes are part of the customer lure, in addition to things like hay rides, fresh produce and pumpkin carvings.

Each maze is designed for the size of the farm  from 1.5 acres to 20 acres  and are mostly corn but also sunflowers. They are custom created by the worlds largest corn maze consulting company, The MAiZE Inc.

The Utah-based Brett Herbst, who leads the company and who launched his first corn maze in 1996, says technology has only somewhat changed the way corn mazes are made.

The first year we did it, we just used a weed whacker with a saw blade on it when the corn was fully grown, he says.

Now we do it when its short and we go in and either mow it or rototil it. We design it all on a computer, but most of it we actually just go draw it out on the ground by hand.

He and his team have over the years designed mazes with everything from the faces of presidential candidates, Oprah Winfrey, zombies, John Wayne and Chris LeDoux.

This year marks the first time they have committed so fully to Charlie Brown and company.

Its very nostalgic and just seemed like a very natural fit from the get-go to embrace that with Peanuts, he says.

Its harvest time. Its kind of become this iconic thing.

There is an art and a science to maze building, a balance between maintaining the integrity of the image, but also making it a true maze where people can actually get lost in.

Thats definitely a challenge there, says Mr Herbst. You want to accomplish both as much as possible.

Peanuts made its debut on October 2, 1950. The travails of the little round-headed kid Charlie Brown and his pals eventually ran in more than 2,600 newspapers, reaching millions of readers in 75 countries.

The strip offers enduring images of kites in trees, Charlie Brown trying to kick a football, tart-tongued Lucy handing out advice for a nickel and Snoopy taking the occasional flight of fancy to the skies.

Phrases such as security blanket and good grief are a part of the global vernacular. Schulz died in 2000.

There is something timeless about corn mazes and that is what excites Jill Schulz so much. They offer children a chance to disconnect from their online life and celebrate something their parents did.

Its great to have an opportunity to just bring kids to events that are old school, because its also important for parents and grandparents to introduce something they loved to do as a child, she says.

I think we all need a little innocence for our children right now with all the technology out there. We need a little put down your phone and go out and have some good old fashioned, old school family time. I think thats important.
Three men involved in widespread public disorder in Southport and Liverpool had disgraced and damaged the reputations of that town and this city, a judge said.

Derek Drummond, 58, punched a police officer in the face as he squared up to a riot cordon, set up in response to a 1,000-strong utterly lawless mob who gathered on the evening of a vigil to mourn three girls killed the day before at a holiday dance class in the Merseyside town.

On Wednesday, sentencing Drummond at Liverpool Crown Court to three years in jail, the judge told him: This mob were using the most foul and racist abuse, uttering threats and insults directed towards the police and a nearby mosque.

Over several hours, windows were smashed, walls were demolished and the recovered bricks were hurled time and again at the police who were protecting the community.

Derek Drummond was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court to three years in prison (Crown Prosecution Service/PA)

A police vehicle was set on fire and the mosque was very badly damaged, as were other buildings in the area. Over 50 police officers were injured.

This was large scale and very violent criminal activity made much worse by the fact that it was happening only a day after entirely different and utterly tragic events.

The genuine and collective grief of the residents of Southport was hijacked by this callous behaviour.

Drummond, of Pool Street, Southport, pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker on July 30.

Chants from the lawless group included this is our f****** country, England till I die and Allah, Allah, who the f*** is Allah, the court heard.

Bodyworn footage from Pc Thomas Ball showed the defendant approach the riot cordon line saying shithouses, shithouses.

Drummond was told to go back and he then punched Pc Ball in the face.

About 30 minutes later, Drummond fronted up to officers again and started to attempt to break through another cordon.

Declan Geiran was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court to 30 months in prison (Crown Prosecution Service/PA

After a public appeal the defendant handed himself into police and said he was a fool.

He said he attended the vigil and heard the disturbance in St Lukes Road and went there alone.

Drummond accepted his behaviour was appalling but could not give any explanation.

He also told detectives: Im absolutely ashamed of the way I acted. Ive let Southport down, Ive let the kids down, Ive let my family down and Im not here to deny anything.

The court heard he had 14 previous convictions, including offences of violence.

Lionel Greig, defending Drummond, said: The court is aware the defendant handed himself into police. When interviewed he made full and frank admissions, expressed remorse and apologised for his actions.

He said Drummond had lost his employment since the incident and wished to further apologise to police for his conduct towards them.

Sentencing, Judge Andrew Menary said Drummond was seen at a fairly early stage of the disorder and had also been seen to pick up a brick.

Your actions have disgraced and damaged the reputations of that town and this city

He told the defendant: This was not mindless thuggery. You made a choice to get involved.

Declan Geiran, 29, set fire to a police van in Liverpool city centre days later on August 3, while Liam Riley, 40, refused to move back from a police cordon elsewhere in the city on the same day, as he shouted and threw his arms around before he called an officer a traitor and a Muslim lover.

Rival protesters had clashed earlier, with dreadful scenes of disorder, violence and destruction of property following, and more police officers injured, the court heard.

Prosecutor ChristopherTaylor said footage uploaded to TikTok showed Geiran at the open window on the drivers side of the police van parked in William Brown Street, as he set the seatbelt alight and smoke billowed out.

Geiran remained at the scene and was seen sitting casually on the fountain outside the Walker Art Gallery, and then taking out his phone to film the van, he said.

He was tracked on CCTV footage and arrested a short time later, the court heard.

When interviewed he said attended the protest at Pier Head alone and wanted to show his support for the bereaved families of the three girls murdered in Southport.

Mr Taylor said: He heard shouts of burn the van, burn the van and stated he felt under pressure.

He didnt believe his actions had caused the damage.

The Transit van was written off, said the prosecutor, and new replacement vans cost more than 32,000.

Geiran had 13 previous convictions for 18 offences between 2011 and this year, with a varied record involving criminal damage, burglary and supplying Class A and Class B drugs, with a number of failures to follow court orders.

Judge Menary said one such community order was imposed last September after he sent a threatening communication.

He said: In fact this is illuminating. Sending messages to a woman threatening to get her and her children, and pretending you were travelling to the south of England in order to harm her.

Thats the sort of brave and principled man you are.

You did very little to comply with any of those community order requirements.

He noted that unbelievably he had told the police he went to Pier Head in support of the bereaved families.

Brendan Carville, defending, told the court that Geiran had emotionally unstable personality disorder and was not a clever man.

He added: He doesnt understand what far right and far left means. He simply went along with the flow.

Geiran, of Kelso Road, Liverpool, was sentenced to 28 months in jail for violent disorder, handed a 12-month concurrent term for arson and given a consecutive two-month prison sentence for breaching his community order.

Liam Riley, 40, was ordered to move back by police who were pelted with missiles and rocks by an aggressive, chanting group of about 100 people in the early evening.

The police cordon at the junction of Whitechapel and Church Street was ordered forward in response, and many of the group retreated, but Riley stood up against officers, shouting and waving his arms around.

Prosecutor Christopher Taylor told Liverpool Crown Court that police noted Riley was clearly drunk and he was arrested after he verbally abused one officer as he called him a traitor and a Muslim lover.

En route to the police station he made a number of negative comments about immigrants and Muslims and said both were to blame for the tragic events in Southport, the court heard.

A poster with the words this is our city was recovered when he was searched at the custody desk.

Mr Taylor said Riley told officers he went to the Pier Head protest to show solidary and support for the city and show support for the bereaved parents.

The prosecutor went on: He said he was not part of any political group. He said he just followed the evolving situation and didnt like the illegals coming over.

Mr Carville, defending, said Riley had no previous convictions and described him as a loner.

He said Riley went to a number of pubs and then stupidly became involved with disorder.

He added: In many respects, he is a very foolish man.

Riley, of Walton Road, Liverpool, was jailed for 20 months after he pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to violent disorder and racially aggravated threatening behaviour.

Judge Menary told the three: Southport is a town where families live and work and take pride in the closeness of such a supportive community.

Liverpool is a dynamic city full of wonderful people who have worked hard to develop a reputation for creativity and enterprise.

Your actions have disgraced and damaged the reputations of that town and this city.
The worlds oldest calendar, carved onto an ancient pillar around 12,000 years ago, has been discovered by archaeologists.

The timekeeping system, unearthed at the Gobekli Tepe site in mountains of Anatolia in Turkey, suggests people were accurately recording dates 10,000 years before it was documented in Greece in 150 BC.

Analysing the markings, a team led by the University of Edinburgh found 365 V symbols etched on one of the pillars at the site, each thought to represent a single day.

This calendar also shows 12 lunar months with 11 additional days, the researchers said.

The stone carving discovered in Turkey (Martin Sweatman/University of Edinburgh/PA)

HISTORY HUB If you are interested in this article then no doubt you will enjoy exploring the various history collections and content in our history hub. Check it out HERE and happy reading

Additionally, the carvings appear to depict a comet strike that wiped out large animals 13,000 years ago and triggered a mini ice age that lasted 1,200 years.

This event is thought to have shaped human civilisation with new developments in agriculture and religion.

Dr Martin Sweatman, of the University of Edinburghs 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 civilisation 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, which features the oldest-known man-made structures, was built by hunter-gatherers between 9,600 and 8,200 BC, predating Stonehenge by more than 6,000 years.

The monuments exact purpose has puzzled experts for decades, although many believe the place was used in connection with rituals, such as funerals.

The Gobekli Tepe site is home to the oldest-known monumental structures (Marcia Chambers/Alamy/PA)

The markings also depict the summer solstice as a separate, special day, represented by a V worn around the neck of a bird-like beast, the researchers said.

The team also uncovered a second pillar showing a meteor stream that lasted 27 days.

The findings, published in the journal Time And Mind, suggest these ancient humans used precession, the wobble in Earths axis which affects the movement of constellations across the sky, to record dates.

The markings also appear to show both solar and lunar cycles, which the researchers said could represent the worlds earliest calendar, combining the motions of the sun and moon.
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A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more.
Aug 06 (Jowhar.com)  Hamas said it has chosen Yahya Sinwar as the new leader of its political office, after the killing of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31.

Sinwar, 61, blames Israel for the mastermind behind the October 7 attack by Hamas inside Israeli territory, which killed more than 1,100 people and took more than 200 hostages. captured by Hamas.

The Islamic Resistance Movement of Hamas announces that Commander Yahya Sinwar has been elected as the head of the political bureau of the movement, replacing the martyr Ismail Haniyeh, [may God have mercy on him], the group said in a brief statement.

Sinwar was born in the Gaza camp south of Khan Younis, and was the former head of the Al-Majd security agency, which was tasked with eliminating Palestinians suspected of collaborating with Israel. He became the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip in 2017.

Sinwar is one of several Hamas leaders for whom the International Criminal Court (ICC) sought an arrest warrant on October 7 war crimes charges.

Arrest warrants have also been sought for some Israeli leaders, including Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Chief Yoav Gallant, accused of war crimes in Gaza.
Aug 06 (Jowhar.com)-Muhammad Yunus will become the head of the interim government in Bangladesh after the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country mass protests against her rule led by students.

Joynal Abedin, the press secretary of the president of Bangladesh Mohammed Shahabuddin announced this decision.

Abedin also said that the other members of the Yunus-led government will be appointed soon after they talk to the political parties and other relevant parties.

The leaders of the student protests, the leaders of the three branches of the countrys armed forces, members of the civil society and some businessmen met with the president to make a decision. temporary administration.

Yunus, who is 83 years old, is expected to return to the country soon as he is currently in Paris according to the local media.

After the decision, the student leaders left the official residence of the president shortly after midnight, satisfied and welcomed the decision.

Nahid Islam, the leader of the student group, described the talks as fruitful and said that Shahabuddin agreed that the interim government will be established in the shortest possible time.

Bangladesh President Shahabuddin also fired the national police chief after the deadly protests that led to Hasinas departure.

Bangladeshs interim prime minister Yunus is an economist who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for pioneering the use of credit financing to help the poor, especially women.
08/06/2024



In addition to being a chart-topping country music artist Niko Moon has written eight #1 songs and over 40 major record label cuts for artists such as Morgan Wallen, Avicii, Dierks Bentley, Pitbull, Zac Brown Band, Rascal Flatts and more. He also co-produced the Zac Brown Band albums, Jekyll+Hyde and Welcome Home, and was recently named a SESAC country songwriter of the year. (courtesy/Niko Moon)

Spirit on Mountain Street will return on August 22, so get ready for a night of delicious food, fun activities, and country music from Niko Moon at Jacksonville's largest outdoor festival. The Jacksonville State Student Government Association invites the community to join them on Mountain Street, next to Jax State's AmFirst Stadium, for an evening of family-friendly fun to kick off the new school year.

Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with Taste of the Town, a taster's fair featuring area restaurants offering samples of their most popular menu items in exchange for $1 tickets. There will also be a free Kids Zone and a vendor area. Admission is free for everyone.

At 8:30 p.m., country artist Niko Moon will close the night with a free concert in the stadium parking lot. Known for his feel-good, positive vibes and tunes, Moon's first single, "Good Time," topped country radio charts, and his other hits continue to climb. As a SESAC Country Songwriter of the Year, Moon has penned eight #1 songs and over 40 major record label cuts for artists like Morgan Wallen, Avicii, Dierks Bentley, Pitbull, Zac Brown Band, Rascal Flatts, and more. He is also the founder of the "Happy Cowboy Foundation," a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Now in its 18th year, Spirit on Mountain Street is co-hosted by Jax State, Aligned Insurance, and the City of Jacksonville to bring the community together at the start of the school year. It has grown into the city's largest outdoor festival, with all proceeds benefiting the Jacksonville Christian Outreach Center, a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to local families in need.

Please mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable evening!
By Mary Ellen OConnell, University of Notre Dame | 

(The Conversation)  >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.

Mary Ellen OConnell, Professor of Law and International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  Presumptive Democratic Party standard-bearer Kamala Harris pick of Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her running mate has widely been implied to have something to do with his stance on the Gaza genocide. That proposition is likely almost entirely untrue. Governors of states dont usually have much to say about international politics, so Walzs record is slim. Moreover, where his stances are better than those of some other Democratic Party politicians, it is mainly a matter of rhetorical style rather than policy. In politics, however, that matters.

On March 5, Super Tuesday, Abby Phillip at CNN asked Walz about the Gaza protest vote: Were seeing a fairly sizable, about 40,000 votes right now, 20 percent of the vote going to uncommitted. And weve seen that already in this primary in Michigan. What message are voters in your state trying to send to President Biden? And what do you want to see President Biden do in response?

Walz replied, Yeah, look, theyre engaged. Were really proud of Minnesota civic responsibility. We have some of the highest voter turnouts. These are voters that are deeply concerned as we all are. The situation in Gaza is intolerable. And I think trying to find a solution, a lasting two-state solution, certainly the Presidents move towards humanitarian aid and asking us to get to a ceasefire, thats what theyre asking to be heard. And thats what they should be doing. Weve gone through this before. And we know that now we make sure weve got eight months. We start bringing these folks back in. We listen to what theyre saying.

The important thing here is that Walz did not simply dismiss the Uncommitted movement or condemn it. He heard their concern and said it mirrored his own. The situation in Gaza is intolerable. He approved of getting to a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.

Asked by Jen Psaki at MSNBC on March 10, 2024, if a third-party candidate could spell trouble for Joe Bidens reelection, Walz replied, I think they should be worried, even in my state, where we had folks that were expressing a deep desire and a dissatisfaction with the situation in Gaza.

Note the positive diction for the protest vote. They had a deep desire. Note too that he perceived the Uncommitted movement to boycott Biden in the Democratic primaries as a real danger signal for the presidents prospects.

Walz is said to have called for a working ceasefire in Gaza to allow humanitarian aid this spring. He appears to have been trying to support President Joe Bidens (tepid) attempts to do something about the Israeli total war on Palestinian civilians. He was enthusiastic about the now-defunct US Navy floating pier built off the Gaza coast, which broke up in heavy waves and appears to have been wholly impractical.

Walz is being contrasted to Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, the nations most prominent Jewish politician. Most U.S. commentary on Shapiro seems skittish about using the term Zionism, but that is ridiculous. Shapiro is a Zionist. In his youth he was such a hard line Zionist, i.e. Jewish nationalist with a belief that Jews have a right to make their state in Palestine, that he opposed Bill Clintons Oslo Peace Accords and dismissed Palestinians as savages too wedded to conflict ever to responsibly direct their own state.

It is Shapiros brand of Zionism that made him controversial, not his Judaism. The Democratic left, myself included, supported Bernie Sanders over Joe Biden and we were crushed when the South Carolina primary gave the nomination to Biden. Nobody came out against Illinois governor J. B. Pritzker for veep. It has nothing to do with Judaism.

Shapiro now says he is in favor of a two-state solution and has spoken out against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. (This criticism of Netanyahu came only in the past couple of years, however; Shapiro had waxed eloquent about Netanyahu a decade ago). We all know, in any case, that a two-state solution is a chimera and this phrase is a mantra used by American politicians to avoid having to deal with the far right Israeli governments determined colonization and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. There is no longer a place to put a Palestinian state, with Gaza in rubble and hundreds of thousands of Israelis squatting on the West Bank. Nor does Shapiro really mean a state with sovereignty. Walz uses the diction, as well.

The hard line of Shapiros Zionism comes out when he declines to call for a ceasefire in Gaza, or to condemn the massive and deliberate civilian toll  in the tens of thousands  of the Israeli total war.

It comes out when he complains about students wearing kuffiyehs to show support for Palestinians, which Shapiro inaccurately took for a necessarily anti-Israel article of clothing, telling Jake Tapper, 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, certainly not condoning that, Jake, by any stretch.

I wrote in April, Supporters of the Israeli genocide against tens of thousands of innocent Palestinian women, children, and noncombatant men in Gaza have fixed upon an unlikely villain in their denunciation of the slightest protest against this centurys worst act of barbarity. They are denouncing the patterned black-and-white scarf of cotton called a kuffiyeh or keffiyeh, which is worn by many Palestinians but also by Iraqis, Saudis and others in the Arabian Peninsula (where it is called a ghutrah). The scarf is useful in dusty climates. It can be drawn up over the face when dust is heavy. It can be worn on the head against the sun or the cool desert night, fixed by an agal, a thick, doubled, black cord. The latter can also be used as a horse or camel whip. This ordinary item of apparel has become associated with Palestinian culture in North America, though it isnt only Palestinians who wear it, and in the nineteenth century it appears to have been mainly worn by Bedouins.

Shapiro is the one who is ignorant of history or culture here. And what he said is outrageous, as though a white nationalist should say African Americans wearing a dashiki is a sign of hating white people.

There is nothing wrong with supporting the Israeli people living in peace and security. I do myself. Some brands of Zionism, however, are more than that. Many Zionists have a militant commitment to Israel keeping everything it has won by war and remaining on a war footing to ensure its rogue actions are unchallenged. It is a commitment to shutting people up when they point to Israeli atrocities. Some Zionisms are a form of militant nationalism.

Shapiro may not be as militant now as he was in his 20s, but that is where he came from, and he still has some of the militancy on occasion.

Walz does not. He is a typical American Democrat of his generation, very pro-Israel. But he supported the UNSC Iran nuclear deal and objected when Trump torpedoed it. He calls the situation in Gaza intolerable. He spoke for a working ceasefire.

We dont hear those things from Shapiro, because his form of Zionist nationalism gives him a set of blind spots. My guess is that while he regrets the destruction in Gaza, he thinks it is legitimate as a way to destroy Hamas, which he in turn thinks is an existential threat to Israel. This is Bidens people die in war. It is naive about what Netanyahu and his far right buddies are up to in Gaza. It is a blind spot.

Whereas the University of Minnesota came to a peaceful resolution with students who set up protest encampments on campus, Shapiro called for police intervention against the encamapment at the University of Pennsylvania, and under Shapiros pressure, the university fired its president for declining to crack down on student protesters chanting from the river to the sea, which Zionists brand anti-Semitic. The phrase, by the way, appears in the charter of the Israeli Likud Party that is led by Netanyahu.

Shapiro sees citizens choice to boycott Israel as antisemitic and used the full force of the states unconstitutional anti-BDS law against Ben and Jerrys ice cream for not wanting to sell its goods to squatters in the occupied West Bank. Shapiro also attempted to implement a speech code for Pennsylvania state government workers that outlawed scandalous speech and hate speech, which seemed aimed at preventing people from protesting the Gaza genocide in that state, and which is clearly unconstitutional. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis even applied such standards to university professors, attempting to outlaw the teaching of slavery as a historic wrong.

When some of your initiatives look more like those of a DeSantis than like those of a Tim Walz, you really shouldnt be on the Democratic Party ticket.



Bonus Video:

PBS NewsHour video: We need a two-state solution, says Harris VP pick Walz
( Middle East Monitor )  The idea that Israels war on Gaza is essentially waged and sustained by and for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dominated political analyses on the subject for some time. The notion is often kept alive by public opinion inside Israel. Most polls produced since the start of the Israeli genocide of the Palestinians in Gaza suggest that an overwhelming majority of Israelis believe that Netanyahus decisions are motivated by personal, political and familial interests.

This conclusion, however, is too convenient and not entirely accurate. It assumes, wrongly, that the Israeli people oppose Netanyahus war in Gaza whereas, in reality, they have been quite approving of all tactics used by the Israeli army so far. For example, over 300 days into the war, 69 per cent of all Israelis support Netanyahus desperate assassinations, including the murder of the top political leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran on 31 July. While Netanyahus decision to target a political leader reflects his own failure and desperation, how do we explain the Israeli peoples enthusiasm for the expansion of the circle of violence?

The answer does not lie in events on 7 October, namely the cross-border Palestinian incursion in the Gaza Envelope region and the unprecedented defeat of the Israeli army. Indeed, it is time to start thinking beyond the confines of the revenge theory, which has dominated our understanding and analysis of the Israeli genocide in Gaza.

For years prior to the current war, Israel has been moving slowly to the political right and far right, the political extremism of which has surpassed that of any generation of Zionist leaders who have governed the occupation state since the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in 1948. According to an Israeli Democracy Institute poll published in January last year, 73 per cent of Israeli Jews aged between 18 and 24, identify as right wing. Given that the likes of current Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir, Bezalel Smotrich and Orit Strook are also classified as right-wing, we can conclude that the majority of young Israelis identify in every practical sense as right-wing extremists.

It is these young people who form the core of the Israeli army and the settler movement.

They are the people carrying out the genocide in Gaza and the daily pogroms in the occupied West Bank, and serving as the foot soldiers for the widespread racism campaigns targeting the Palestinian Arab communities inside Israel.

A good number of analysts have tried to explain how Israel became a decidedly right-wing society and how young people, in particular, have emerged as the gatekeepers of Israels version of suicidal nationalism. The explanation, however, should be straightforward. Israels far-right extremism is simply the natural evolution of Zionist ideology which, even in its most liberal forms, was always predicated on ethnic hatred, a sense of racial supremacy and predictable violence.

Although ideological Zionism in all its manifestations has essentially followed the same trajectory of settler-colonialism and ethnic cleansing, a conflict existed between the various strands of Israeli society. The so-called liberals  represented by the upper echelons of the military, business circles and some centrist and leftist political groups  worked to maintain the balance between a colonial, apartheid regime in occupied Palestine, and a selective liberal order that applies only to Jews inside Israel.

The far right had other ideas. For many years, the Israeli right-wing camp, led by Netanyahu himself, has perceived his ideological enemies within Israel as traitors for even daring to engage in a peace process with the Palestinians, even if that process was a facade from the beginning. The right wanted to ensure that the territorial contiguity between so-called Israel proper and the illegal Jewish settlements was not only physical, but also ideological. This is how the settlers moved slowly, over the years, from the margins of Israeli politics to the centre.

Between April 2019 and November 2022, Israel underwent five general elections. Although the focus of most remained fixated on Netanyahus role in dividing Israeli society, the elections, in reality, were a historic fight among Israels ideological groups to determine the future of the country and the direction of Zionism.

In the last election in 2022, the far-right extremists won, forming the most stable Israeli government in years. While the right was ready to reconfigure Israel permanently, including its political, educational, military and, most importantly, judicial institutions, 7 October happened.

Initially, the Hamas-led assault and its aftermath posed a challenge to all segments of Israeli society: the humiliated army, the degraded intelligence agencies, the humbled politicians, the confounded media and the angry masses. The greatest challenge was faced by the far-right, though, which was about to shape the future of Israel for generations. Thus, the Gaza war is not just important to Netanyahu, but to the very future of Israels far-right camp, whose entire political and ideological programme has been shattered, most likely beyond salvation.

This should help explain the obvious contradictions in Israeli society. For example, the mistrust in Netanyahus motives, yet trust in the war itself; the widespread criticism of his overall failure, yet the approval of his actions; and so on. This seeming confusion cannot be explained simply based on Netanyahus ability to manipulate Israelis. Even if the Israeli right has lost all faith in Netanyahu, without him as a unifying figure the chances for the far-right camp to redeem itself are lost, as is the very future of Zionism.

The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment.

Middle East Monitor
DENVER / Aug 06, 2024 / Business Wire / 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 Companys 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 companys 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 GRCs website, located at www.goldresourcecorp.com and read the companys 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 Companys 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 Companys 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.
VANCOUVER, BC AND HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV:RSLV) (OTCQX:RSNVF) (FRA:4ZC) ("Reyna Silver") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an arrangement agreement dated August 7, 2024 (the "Agreement") with Reyna Gold Corp. ("Reyna Gold"), pursuant to which Reyna Silver has agreed to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Reyna Gold (the "REYG Shares") by way of a statutory plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the "Transaction").

Strategic Highlights and Benefits of the Transaction

Consolidates Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold's current joint option of the Gryphon Summit Project.

Represents an opportunity for Reyna Silver to acquire and explore or monetize Reyna Gold's attractive gold properties in Mexico.

Creates a larger-scale entity with increased access to capital to enable the financing of continuing exploration of Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold's combined exploration portfolio.

Eliminates duplicate back end administrative and regulatory costs by eliminating one public issuer.

The combined entity will be well capitalized to increase the value of its improved project portfolio, supported by its strong executive management team and Board of Directors.

The Transaction is an arm's length transaction and provides REYG Shareholders with a premium of approximately 48% based on each company's respective 20-day volume-weighted average price ("VWAP"). The Transaction positions the combined entity of Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold to become a leading significant silver-lead-zinc-copper exploration company with an expanded portfolio of prospective base and precious metals assets in the United States and Mexico.

"The proposed acquisition of Reyna Gold by Reyna Silver represents a significant opportunity for our companies and stakeholders alike," said Jorge Ramiro Monroy, CEO of Reyna Silver. "The resulting operational efficiencies, consolidation of management teams, and unification of vision make this move advantageous for our stakeholders. This move unlocks Reyna Silver's ability to realize the full value of the Gryphon Summit Project, which is currently a joint venture between the two companies. The drill rig starts turning soon, and we look forward to delivering results to the newly unified stakeholders in the fall."

Under the terms of the Agreement, each holder of REYG Shares (a "REYG Shareholder" and, collectively, the "REYG Shareholders") will receive one (1) common share of Reyna Silver (a "RSLV Share") for every three (3) REYG Shares held (the "Consideration"). The value of the Consideration represents an approximate 48% premium to REYG Shareholders, based on the 20 day VWAP of the RSLV Shares and the REYG Shares as of August 2, 2024 on the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"). Upon completion of the Transaction, REYG Shareholders will hold approximately 10% of the issued and outstanding RSLV Shares and existing RSLV Shareholders will hold approximately 90% of the issued and outstanding RSLV Shares, excluding any shares issued in connection with the Debt Conversion (as defined below).

As part of the Transaction, all outstanding options of Reyna Gold will vest immediately and be exchanged for the number of options to purchase RSLV Shares based on the exchange ratio outlined in the Agreement.

In connection with the Transaction, Reyna Gold will assign and Reyna Silver will assume all of Reyna Gold's right, title, interest and obligations under the Property Option Agreement dated August 29, 2023 among Golden Gryphon USA Inc. (the "Gryphon Option Agreement"), Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold with respect to the Gryphon Summit Project.

In addition, it is expected that immediately prior to Transaction, up to $117,000.00 in accrued amounts payable by Reyna Gold (including accrued amounts owing, directly or indirectly, to certain directors and officers of Reyna Gold for accrued directors' fees and management fees) will be converted (the "Debt Conversion") into REYG Shares at a price of $0.05 per REYG Share. Further, all change of control payments payable to officers of Reyna Gold under executive compensation agreements will be waived in connection with the Transaction.

Additional Details on the Transaction

Completion of the Transaction will, among other things, require the approval of: (i) at least two-thirds of the votes cast by the REYG Shareholders; and (ii) if required, a simple majority of the votes cast by REYG Shareholders, excluding for this purpose the votes of "related parties" and "interested parties" and other votes required to be excluded under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions, with all votes to occur at a special meeting of REYG Shareholders expected to take place in September 2024 (the "Reyna Gold Meeting"). No shareholder vote is required by RSLV Shareholders. The Agreement includes covenants typical for transactions of this nature, including non-solicitation covenants.

The Transaction is expected to close in September of 2024, subject to the satisfaction (or waiver) of a number of conditions precedent, including, but not limited to receipt of all regulatory approvals, including the approval of the Supreme Court of British Columbia and the TSXV, assignment of the Gryphon Option Agreement and completion of the Debt Conversions.

The Transaction has the full endorsement of both the boards of Reyna Gold and Reyna Silver upon the recommendation of a special committee of independent directors of each respective board with the mandate to evaluate the proposed transaction. Certain directors sit on the boards of both Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold and accordingly are not members of either special committee. The special committee of Reyna Gold has received advice from its advisors, and has reviewed a fairness opinion from Evans & Evans, Inc., and has unanimously determined that the Transaction is in the best interests of Reyna Gold and will recommend that REYG Shareholders vote in favour of the Transaction.

Full details of the Transaction will be included in the management information circular (the "Circular") of Reyna Gold describing the matters to be considered at the Reyna Gold Meeting, which is expected to be mailed to the REYG Shareholders in August 2024. A copy of the Agreement is presently available, and a copy of the Circular will be made available following its mailing, on the SEDAR+ profile of Reyna Gold at www.sedarplus.ca.

Advisors

Evans & Evans, Inc. has provided a fairness opinion to Reyna Gold in connection with the Transaction. Edwards, Kenny & Bray LLP is acting as legal counsel to Reyna Silver. Segev LLP is acting as legal counsel to the Reyna Gold special committee and Founders LLP is acting as legal counsel to the Reyna Silver special committee.

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Reyna Silver Corp.

Jorge Ramiro Monroy

Chief Executive Officer

T: +1 (778) 504-1344

E: 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. Reyna Silver focuses on exploring for high-grade, district-scale silver deposits in Mexico and the United States. In Nevada USA, Reyna Silver has entered into an option to acquire 70% of the 10,300-hectare "Gryphon Summit Project" in a 50/50 partnership with Reyna Gold. 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 Reyna Silver is exploring a potentially significant Silver-Lead-Zinc-Copper CRD-skarn-Porphyry system. Reyna Silver'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.

About Reyna Gold Corp.

Reyna Gold is a gold exploration company focused on district-scale exploration. Reyna Gold has a portfolio of assets on the Mojave-Sonora Megashear and the Sierra Madre Gold in Mexico, and a joint option with Reyna Silver to acquire the 10,300-hectare combined Carlin-style and CRD Gryphon Summit Project in Eureka Co., Nevada, USA. Reyna Gold has an experienced management team with a proven track record of wealth creation through project discovery, advancement, and monetization.

Forward Looking Information

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information under applicable Canadian, United States and other applicable securities laws, rules and regulations, including, without limitation, statements with respect to: the completion of the Transaction, the assignment of the Gryphon Option Agreement, the conditions to the completion of the Transaction that must be fulfilled, including approval of the Transaction by the REYG Shareholders, the timing receipt and anticipated effects of court, regulatory and other consents and approvals, and the anticipated benefits and advantages of the Transaction. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward looking information and are based on Reyna Silver's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as Reyna Silver and Reyna Gold's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include, among others, risks related to failure to receive approval by REYG Shareholders, the required court, regulatory and other consents and approvals to effect the Transaction, the possibility that the Agreement could be terminated in certain circumstances, and the other risks factors set forth in the "Risk Factors" section in Reyna Silver's latest management discussion and analysis dated May 30, 2024. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Reyna Silver. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and Reyna Silver undertakes no 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 securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

Information About Each Company

Information in this news release about Reyna Silver has been provided by, and is the responsibility of Reyna Silver. For further information about Reyna Silver, please refer to Reyna Silver's filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities under its issuer profile on SEDAR+. Information in this news release about Reyna Gold has been provided by, and is the responsibility of, Reyna Gold. For further information about Reyna Gold, please refer to Reyna Gold's filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities under its issuer profile on SEDAR+.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gatos Silver, Inc. (NYSE/TSX: GATO) (Gatos Silver or the Company) today announced its second quarter 2024 financial and operating results. The Company will host an investor and analyst call on August 7, 2024, details of which are provided below.

The Company has a 70% interest in the Los Gatos Joint Venture (LGJV), which in turn owns the Cerro Los Gatos (CLG) mine in Mexico. Production for the second quarter of 2024 was previously disclosed on July 9, 2024. The Companys reporting currency is US dollars.

Dale Andres, CEO of Gatos Silver, commented: The LGJV generated record revenue and free cash flow in quarter, reflecting significantly lower unit operating costs and higher metal prices combined with the strong previously reported production at CLG. The LGJV has distributed $95 million to its partners so far this year through July, with our share being $66.5 million.

We remain on track to achieve 2024 production and cost guidance and we continue to expect that our updated life of mine plan scheduled for the third quarter of 2024 will further extend CLGs mine life. We are also continuing to follow-up on the exciting initial exploration results we announced on July 23, as we continue to advance our district exploration program.

Summary

LGJV Q2 2024 results compared to Q2 2023 (100% basis):

Record revenue of $94.2 million, up 62% from $58.3 million

Cost of sales $32.0 million, up 24% from $25.8 million

Record net income $20.5 million, up from $0.7 million

Record EBITDA $54.1 million 1 , up 101% from $27.0 million

, up 101% from $27.0 million Record cash flow from operations of $54.5 million, up 59% from $34.3 million

Record free cash flow $40.8 million 1 , up 107% from $19.7 million

, up 107% from $19.7 million Silver production 2.30 million ounces, up 15% from 2.00 million ounces

Silver equivalent production of 3.88 million ounces 2 , up 18% from 3.30 million ounces

, up 18% from 3.30 million ounces By-product AISC of $6.57 1 per ounce of payable silver, down 54% from $14.32

per ounce of payable silver, down 54% from $14.32 Co-product AISC of $15.261 per ounce of payable silver, down 13% from $17.55

Gatos Silver Q2 2024 results compared to Q2 2023:

Net income of $9.2 million, up from net loss of $3.6 million

Basic and diluted earnings per share of $0.13, up from loss of $0.05

EBITDA of $8.2 million 1 , up from a $3.5 million loss

, up from a $3.5 million loss Cash flow provided by operating activities and free cash flow of $11.8 million1, compared to cash flow used by operating activities and free cash outflow of $3.8 million1

_________________________________

1 See Non-GAAP Financial Measures below.

2 See definition of silver equivalent production below

At the LGJV, the 62% increase in revenue in Q2 2024, compared to the same quarter in 2023, was primarily attributable to higher sales volumes and higher realized metal prices after final settlement adjustments. Cost of sales increased by 24% primarily due to a 29% increase in concentrate sales volumes and the associated increase in mining and milling rates. Site operating unit costs of $101.28/t milled were 3% lower than in Q2 2023. By-product AISC1 per ounce of payable silver decreased to $6.57 primarily due to significantly higher by-product production and sales volumes, further supported by lower sustaining capital1 expenditures during the quarter.

For Gatos Silver, higher net income, earnings per share and EBITDA1 for Q2 2024 were primarily attributable to the higher equity income from the LGJV. This was partially offset by an increase in general and administrative expenses, mainly due to higher non-cash stock-based compensation expenses of $1.6 million and higher legal and consulting expenses which are not expected to be recurring beyond 2024.

As of June 30, 2024, the Company had a cash balance of $82.5 million, up 17% from $70.6 million at the end of March 2024. The increase in cash was due to receipt of a $17.5 million capital distribution during the second quarter. On July 29, 2024, which was subsequent to the quarter end, the LGJV made a capital distribution to its partners of $40.0 million of which the Company received $28.0 million. As of July 31, 2024, the Company had a cash balance of $108.9 million and the LGJV had a cash balance of $24.4 million. The Company continues to be debt free with $50.0 million available under the revolving credit facility.

Financial and Operating Results

Below is select operational and financial information for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023. For a detailed discussion of financial and operating results refer to the Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2024, filed on August 6, 2024 on both the EDGAR and SEDAR+ systems and posted on the Companys website at https://gatossilver.com.

Los Gatos Joint Venture

LGJV 100% Basis

Selected Financial Information (Unaudited) Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in millions, except where otherwise stated) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue $ 94.2 $ 58.3 $ 166.4 $ 128.1 Cost of sales 32.0 25.8 62.7 51.8 Royalties and duties 0.7 0.3 1.0 0.7 Exploration 1.6 0.7 3.0 1.1 General and administrative 4.1 4.4 8.4 8.3 Depreciation, depletion and amortization 20.8 22.0 41.1 42.8 Other expense (income) 2.0 (0.4 ) 2.2 (0.9 ) Income tax expense 12.5 4.7 17.3 10.7 Net income and comprehensive income2 $ 20.5 $ 0.7 $ 30.7 $ 13.4 Sustaining capital1 $ 11.4 $ 13.1 $ 20.3 $ 20.7 Resource development drilling expenditures1 $ 1.9 $ 4.0 $ 5.1 $ 7.0 EBITDA1 $ 54.1 $ 27.0 $ 89.3 $ 66.6 Cash provided by operating activities $ 54.5 $ 34.3 $ 91.8 $ 74.4 Free cash flow1 $ 40.8 $ 19.7 $ 66.3 $ 48.4 Operating Results (CLG 100% Basis) Tonnes milled (dmt) 294,869 265,342 586,983 525,770 Tonnes milled per day (dmt) 3,240 2,916 3,225 2,905 Average Grades Silver grade (g/t) 273 265 279 296 Zinc grade (%) 4.55 4.00 4.27 3.96 Lead grade (%) 2.06 1.85 1.92 1.86 Gold grade (g/t) 0.29 0.26 0.29 0.28 Production - Contained Metal Silver ounces (millions) 2.30 2.00 4.67 4.43 Zinc pounds  in zinc conc. (millions) 19.1 14.8 34.9 28.9 Lead pounds  in lead conc. (millions) 12.0 9.7 22.2 19.1 Gold ounces  in lead conc. (thousands) 1.36 1.20 2.75 2.58 Silver equivalent ounces (millions)2 3.88 3.30 7.58 6.99 Co-product cash cost per ounce of payable silver equivalent1 $ 11.83 $ 12.72 $ 11.70 $ 11.49 By-product cash cost per ounce of payable silver1 $ 0.96 $ 7.10 $ 3.66 $ 4.66 Co-product AISC per ounce of payable silver equivalent1 $ 15.26 $ 17.55 $ 14.73 $ 14.94 By-product AISC per ounce of payable silver1 $ 6.57 $ 14.32 $ 8.42 $ 9.80 Sales volumes by payable metal Silver ounces (millions) 2.03 1.81 4.27 4.03 Zinc pounds  in zinc conc. (millions) 15.9 11.7 29.6 23.7 Lead pounds  in lead conc. (millions) 11.0 9.0 21.0 17.9 Gold ounces  in lead conc. (thousands) 0.97 0.93 2.15 2.06 Copper pounds  in lead conc. (millions) 0.03  0.10  Average realized price by payable metal Average realized price per silver ounce4 $ 29.00 $ 24.11 $ 25.80 $ 25.48 Average realized price per zinc pound4 $ 1.53 $ 0.99 $ 1.32 $ 1.21 Average realized price per lead pound4 $ 0.96 $ 0.92 $ 0.91 $ 0.99 Average realized price per gold ounce4 $ 2,200 $ 1,817 $ 2,057 $ 1,801 Average realized price per copper pound4 $ 3.74 $  $ 3.83 $ 

1 See Non-GAAP Financial Measures below

2 Totals may not add up due to rounding

3 Silver equivalent production for 2024 is calculated using prices of $23/oz silver, $1.20/lb zinc, $0.90/lb lead and $1,800/oz gold to convert zinc, lead and gold production contained in concentrate to equivalent silver ounces (contained metal, multiplied by price, divided by silver price). For 2023, silver equivalent production was calculated using prices of $22/oz silver, $1.20/lb zinc, $0.90/lb lead and $1,700/oz gold. For comparative purposes, the calculated silver equivalent production for the three and six months ended June, 2023 would be 3.24 million ounces and 6.89 million ounces, respectively, using price assumptions for 2024.

4 Realized prices include the impact of final settlement adjustments from sales

Gatos Silver, Inc.

Selected Financial Information (Unaudited) Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in millions, except where otherwise stated) 2024 2023 2024 2023 General and Administrative $ 7.9 $ 6.1 $ 14.8 $ 11.7 Total expenses 7.9 6.1 14.9 11.8 Equity income in affiliates 14.5 1.5 21.8 6.5 Other income, net 2.7 1.1 5.0 2.5 Total net other income 17.2 2.6 26.8 9.0 Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss)2 $ 9.2 $ (3.6 ) $ 11.7 $ (2.8 ) Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) per share (basic and diluted) $ 0.13 $ (0.05 ) $ 0.17 $ (0.04 ) EBITDA1 $ 8.2 $ (3.5 ) $ 10.0 $ (2.6 ) Cash provided (used) by operating activities $ 11.8 $ (3.8 ) $ 26.9 $ (7.9 ) Free cash flow1 $ 11.8 $ (3.8 ) $ 26.9 $ (7.9 )

1 See Non-GAAP Financial Measures below

2 Totals may not add up due to rounding

2024 Guidance (CLG 100% basis)

Gatos Silver continues to expect plant throughput in 2024 to average in the top half of our previously announced guidance range of 3,000 and 3,300 tonnes processed per day and compares to 2,935 tonnes per day in 2023. Mine debottlenecking efforts are continuing to help achieve our medium-term target of sustaining 3,500 tonnes per day beyond 2024, or 40% above original design capacity.

We continue to expect both silver equivalent and silver production to be in the top half of our previously announced guidance ranges of 13.5 to 15.0 million ounces and 8.4 to 9.2 million ounces respectively for the full year in 2024, and full year co-product and by-product AISCs to remain in the lower half of our original guidance ranges of $14.00 to $16.00 per ounce of payable silver equivalent and $9.50 to $11.50 per ounce of payable silver.

Financial Results Webcast and Conference Call

Investors and analysts are invited to attend the financial results webcast and conference call as follows:

Date: Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Time: 11:00 a.m. ET

Listen-Only Webcast: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/924567096

Direct Event Registration Link (for Analysts only): https://registrations.events/direct/Q4I98433134

An archive of the webcast will be available on the Companys website at: https://gatossilver.com within 24 hours.

About Gatos Silver

Gatos Silver is a silver dominant exploration, development and production company that discovered a new silver and zinc-rich mineral district in southern Chihuahua State, Mexico. As a 70% owner of the Los Gatos Joint Venture (LGJV), the Company is primarily focused on operating the Cerro Los Gatos mine and on growth and development of the Los Gatos district. The LGJV includes approximately 103,000 hectares of mineral rights, representing a highly prospective and under-explored district with numerous silver-zinc-lead epithermal mineralized zones identified as priority targets.

Qualified Person

Scientific and technical disclosure in this press release was approved by Anthony (Tony) Scott, P.Geo., Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Technical Services of Gatos Silver who is a Qualified Person as defined in S-K 1300 and NI 43-101.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We use certain measures that are not defined by GAAP to evaluate various aspects of our business. These non-GAAP financial measures are intended to provide additional information only and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. The measures are not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under GAAP.

Cash Costs and All-In Sustaining Costs

Cash costs and all-in sustaining costs (AISC) are non-GAAP measures. AISC was calculated based on guidance provided by the World Gold Council (WGC). WGC is not a regulatory industry organization and does not have the authority to develop accounting standards for disclosure requirements. Other mining companies may calculate AISC differently as a result of differences in underlying accounting principles and policies applied, as well as definitional differences of sustaining versus expansionary (i.e. non-sustaining) capital expenditures based upon each companys internal policies. Current GAAP measures used in the mining industry, such as cost of sales, do not capture all of the expenditures incurred to discover, develop and sustain production. Therefore, we believe that cash costs and AISC are non-GAAP measures that provide additional information to management, investors and analysts that aid in the understanding of the economics of the Companys operations and performance compared to other producers and provides investors visibility by better defining the total costs associated with production.

Cash costs include all direct and indirect operating cash costs related directly to the physical activities of producing metals, including mining, processing and other plant costs, treatment and refining costs, general and administrative costs, royalties and mining production taxes. AISC includes total production cash costs incurred at the LGJVs mining operations plus sustaining capital expenditures. The Company believes this measure represents the total sustainable costs of producing silver from current operations and provides additional information of the LGJVs operational performance and ability to generate cash flows. As the measure seeks to reflect the full cost of silver production from current operations, new project and expansionary capital at current operations are not included. Certain cash expenditures such as exploration, new project spending, tax payments, dividends, and financing costs are not included.

EBITDA

Management uses earnings before interest, income tax, depreciation, depletion and amortization (EBITDA) to evaluate the Companys operating performance, to plan and forecast its operations, and assess leverage levels and liquidity measures. The Company believes the use of EBITDA reflects the underlying operating performance of our core mining business and allows investors and analysts to compare results of the Company to similar results of other mining companies. EBITDA do not represent, and should not be considered an alternative to, net income (loss) or cash flow from operations as determined under GAAP.

Free Cash Flow

Management uses free cash flow as a non-GAAP measure to analyze cash flows generated from operations. Free cash flow is cash provided by (used in) operating activities less cash flow from (used in) investing activities, as presented on the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. The Company believes free cash flow is also useful as one of the bases for comparing the Companys performance with its competitors. Although free cash flow and similar measures are frequently used as measures of cash flows generated from operations by other companies, the Companys calculation of free cash flow is not necessarily comparable to such other similarly titled captions of other companies.

Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP measures

The table below presents a reconciliation between the most comparable GAAP measure of the LGJVs expenses to the non-GAAP measures of (i) cash costs, (ii) cash costs, net of by-product credits, (iii) co-product AISC and (iv) by-product AISC for our operations.

CLG 100% Basis

Financial Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands, except where otherwise stated) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Expenses $ 59,180 $ 53,215 $ 116,193 $ 104,839 Depreciation, depletion and amortization (20,821 ) (22,027 ) (41,077 ) (42,846 ) Exploration1 (1,601 ) (657 ) (2,972 ) (1,120 ) Treatment and refining costs2 2,339 3,917 6,296 8,072 Cash costs (A) $ 39,097 $ 34,448 $ 78,440 $ 68,945 Sustaining capital3 11,357 13,100 20,301 20,742 Co-product AISC (B) $ 50,454 $ 47,548 $ 98,741 $ 89,687 By-product credits4 (37,144 ) (21,574 ) (62,818 ) (50,161 ) AISC, net of by-product credits (C) $ 13,310 $ 25,974 $ 35,923 $ 39,526 Cash costs, net of by-product credits (D) $ 1,953 $ 12,874 $ 15,622 $ 18,784 Payable ounces of silver equivalent5 (E) 3,306 2,709 6,703 6,002 Co-product cash cost per ounce of payable silver equivalent (A/E) $ 11.83 $ 12.72 $ 11.70 $ 11.49 Co-product AISC per ounce of payable silver equivalent (B/E) $ 15.26 $ 17.55 $ 14.73 $ 14.94 Payable ounces of silver (F) 2,025 1,814 4,268 4,033 By-product cash cost per ounce of payable silver (D/F) $ 0.96 $ 7.10 $ 3.66 $ 4.66 By-product AISC per ounce of payable silver (C/F) $ 6.57 $ 14.32 $ 8.42 $ 9.80

1 Exploration costs are not related to current mining operations.

2 Represent reductions on customer invoices and are included in revenue of the LGJV combined statement of operations and comprehensive income.

3 Sustaining capital excludes resource development drilling costs related to resource development drilling of the South- East Deeps zone.

4 By-product credits reflect realized metal prices of zinc, lead and gold for the applicable period, which includes any final settlement adjustments from prior periods.

5 Silver equivalents utilize the average realized prices during the six months ended June 30, 2024, of $25.80/oz silver, $1.32/lb zinc, $0.91/lb lead, $2,057/oz gold and $3.83/lb copper and the average realized prices during the three months ended June 30, 2024, of $29.00/oz silver, $1.53/lb zinc, $0.96/lb lead and $2,200/oz gold and $3.74/lb copper. Silver equivalents utilize the average realized prices during the six months ended June 30, 2023, of $25.48/oz silver, $1.21/lb zinc, $0.99/lb lead and $1,801/oz gold and the average realized prices during the three months ended June 30, 2023, of $24.11/oz silver, $0.99/lb zinc, $0.92/lb lead and $1,817/oz gold. The average realized prices are determined based on revenue inclusive of final settlements.

The following table provides a breakdown of cash flows used by investing activities of the LGJV and a reconciliation of sustaining capital and resource development drilling to that measure:

Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Cash flow used by investing activities $ 13,729 $ 14,626 $ 25,557 $ 25,992 Sustaining capital 11,357 13,100 20,301 20,742 Resource development drilling 1,885 4,041 5,107 7,047 Materials & supplies  914  1,426 Change in capital-related accounts payable 487 (3,429 ) 149 (3,223 ) Total $ 13,729 $ 14,626 $ 25,557 $ 25,992

The table below reconciles EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure to net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) for the Company:

Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) $ 9,156 $ (3,593 ) $ 11,688 $ (2,758 ) Interest expense  183  347 Interest income (1,117 ) (126 ) (1,884 ) (287 ) Income tax expense 129  172  Depreciation, depletion and amortization 3 34 7 71 EBITDA $ 8,171 $ (3,502 ) $ 9,983 $ (2,627 )

The table below reconciles of EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, to the LGJVs net income and comprehensive income:

Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net income and comprehensive income $ 20,487 $ 746 $ 30,659 $ 13,447 Interest expense 554 15 749 141 Interest income (270 ) (555 ) (543 ) (555 ) Income tax expense 12,544 4,741 17,319 10,698 Depreciation, depletion and amortization 20,821 22,027 41,077 42,846 EBITDA $ 54,136 $ 26,974 $ 89,261 $ 66,577

The following table sets forth a reconciliation of free cash flow, a non-GAAP financial measure, to net cash provided (used) by operating activities operating activities for the Company, which the Company believes to be the GAAP financial measure most directly comparable to free cash flow.

Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net cash provided (used) by operating activities $ 11,799 $ (3,762 ) $ 26,935 $ (7,865 ) Net cash used by investing activities     Free cash flow $ 11,799 $ (3,762 ) $ 26,935 $ (7,865 )

The following table sets forth a reconciliation of free cash flow, a non-GAAP financial measure, to net cash provided by operating activities for the LGJV.

Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 54,483 $ 34,321 $ 91,808 $ 74,365 Net cash used by investing activities (13,729 ) (14,626 ) (25,557 ) (25,992 ) Free cash flow $ 40,754 $ 19,695 $ 66,251 $ 48,373

Please see Appendix A for the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets of the Company and the LGJV as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the related unaudited condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) of the Company, unaudited combined statements of operations and comprehensive income of the LGJV for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, and unaudited statements of cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute forward looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. and Canadian securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding prospective exploration, timing of an updated life of mine plan, guidance for 2024 including processing rates, production and AISC are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on managements beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to management. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, and such other risks and uncertainties described in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Canadian securities commissions. Gatos Silver expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update the forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which such statements are based unless required to do so by applicable law. No assurance can be given that such future results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release.

Investors and Media Contact

Andre van Niekerk

Chief Financial Officer

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

(604) 424 0984

APPENDIX A

GATOS SILVER, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(UNAUDITED)

June 30, December 31, (US$ in thousands) 2024 2023 ASSETS Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 82,476 $ 55,484 Related party receivables 155 560 Other current assets 1,593 22,642 Total current assets 84,224 78,686 Non-Current Assets Investment in affiliates 305,228 321,914 Deferred tax assets 200 266 Other non-current assets 382 38 Total Assets $ 390,034 $ 400,904 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY Current Liabilities Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities $ 8,938 $ 33,357 Non-Current Liabilities Lease liability 218  Stockholders Equity Common Stock, $0.001 par value; 700,000,000 shares authorized; 69,341,227 and 69,181,047 shares outstanding as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively 117 117 Paid-in capital 554,962 553,319 Accumulated deficit (174,201 ) (185,889 ) Total stockholders equity 380,878 367,547 Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity $ 390,034 $ 400,904

GATOS SILVER, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS) AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(UNAUDITED)

(US$ in thousands, except for share data)



Three Months Ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Expenses Exploration $ 44 $  $ 75 $ 26 General and administrative 7,872 6,127 14,835 11,663 Amortization 3 34 7 71 Total expenses 7,919 6,161 14,917 11,760 Other income Equity income in affiliates 14,526 1,474 21,814 6,485 Interest expense  (183 )  (347 ) Interest income 1,117 126 1,884 287 Other income 1,561 1,151 3,079 2,577 Other income 17,204 2,568 26,777 9,002 Income (loss) before taxes 9,285 (3,593 ) 11,860 (2,758 ) Income tax expense 129  172  Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) $ 9,156 $ (3,593 ) $ 11,688 $ (2,758 ) Net income (loss) per share: Basic and diluted $ 0.13 $ (0.05 ) $ 0.17 $ (0.04 ) Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 69,217,512 69,162,223 69,199,280 69,162,223 Diluted 71,096,361 69,162,223 70,793,043 69,162,223

GATOS SILVER, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(UNAUDITED)

Six months ended June 30, (US$ in thousands) 2024 2023 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) $ 11,688 $ (2,758 ) Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided (used) by operating activities: Amortization 7 71 Stock-based compensation expense 3,295 1,205 Equity income in affiliates (21,814 ) (6,485 ) Deferred tax recovery 57  Other 60  Distributions received from affiliate 38,500  Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Receivables from relatedparties 405 (389 ) Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities (26,338 ) (648 ) Other current assets 21,075 1,139 Net cash provided (used) by operating activities 26,935 (7,865 ) INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net cash used by investing activities   FINANCING ACTIVITIES Proceeds from exercise of stock options 111  Lease payments (54 )  Net cash used by financing activities (57 )  Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 26,992 (7,865 ) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 55,484 17,004 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 82,476 $ 9,139 Interest paid $ 11 $ 364 Interest earned $ 1,884 $ 287

LOS GATOS JOINT VENTURE

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

(UNAUDITED)

June 30, December 31, (US$ in thousands) 2024 2023 ASSETS Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 45,523 $ 34,303 Receivables 12,559 12,634 Inventories 15,782 16,397 VAT receivable 12,781 12,610 Income tax receivable 13,580 20,185 Other current assets 2,652 1,253 Total current assets 102,877 97,382 Non-Current Assets Mine development, net 231,138 234,980 Property, plant and equipment, net 161,171 171,965 Deferred tax assets 2,783 9,568 Total non-current assets 395,092 416,513 Total Assets $ 497,969 $ 513,895 LIABILITIES AND OWNERS CAPITAL Current Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 47,293 $ 38,704 Related party payable 192 560 Total current liabilities 47,485 39,264 Non-Current Liabilities Lease liability 172 208 Asset retirement obligation 12,027 11,593 Deferred tax liabilities 3,681 3,885 Total non-current liabilities 15,880 15,686 Owners Capital Capital contributions 400,638 455,638 Paid-in capital 18,186 18,186 Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) 15,780 (14,879 ) Total owners capital 434,604 458,945 Total Liabilities and Owners Capital $ 497,969 $ 513,895

LOS GATOS JOINT VENTURE

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(UNAUDITED)

Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, (US$ in thousands) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue $ 94,198 $ 58,259 $ 166,416 $ 128,124 Expenses Cost of sales 31,956 25,821 62,727 51,809 Royalties and duties 713 308 1,043 726 Exploration 1,601 657 2,972 1,120 General and administrative 4,089 4,402 8,374 8,338 Depreciation, depletion and amortization 20,821 22,027 41,077 42,846 Total expenses 59,180 53,215 116,193 104,839 Other expense (income) Accretion expense 218 296 435 593 Interest expense 554 15 749 141 Interest income (270 ) (555 ) (543 ) (555 ) Other expense 653 43 648 31 Foreign exchange loss (gain) 832 (242 ) 956 (1,070 ) 1,987 (443 ) 2,245 (860 ) Income before taxes 33,031 5,487 47,978 24,145 Income tax expense 12,544 4,741 17,319 10,698 Net income and comprehensive income $ 20,487 $ 746 $ 30,659 $ 13,447

LOS GATOS JOINT VENTURE

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(UNAUDITED)
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) (Orezone or Company) reported its operational and financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024. The Company will host a conference call and webcast on August 7, 2024 commencing at 8:00am PT to discuss its Q2-2024 results. Additional details are provided at the end of this press release.

Patrick Downey, President and CEO, commented Second quarter results were impacted by lower-than-expected grid power availability, and by lower scheduled head grades per the 2024 mine plan. Operating and financial results are anticipated to be significantly stronger in the second half of 2024 as mining ramps up in our newest mining areas, Siga East and Siga South, which will provide a steady source of higher-grade, soft oxide ore to the mill. This outlook is further underscored by a resumption in grid power availability to historical levels, which for the month of July exceeded 95%.

While the temporary reduction in grid power availability in H1-2024 presented a challenge, our operating team proved its resiliency, further optimizing and increasing plant throughput, which culminated in a record 525,000 tonnes processed in the month of June. This performance has continued into the third quarter, and positions the Company well to achieve its 2024 guidance.

After the quarter end, the Company announced a $105M financing package and positive construction decision for the Bombore Phase II hard rock expansion, in addition to a multi-year discovery focused drill campaign. The Company looks forward to providing further announcements on these strategic initiatives in upcoming months.

2024 SECOND QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS AND SIGNIFICANT SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

(All mine site figures on a 100% basis) Q2-2024 Q2-2023 H1-2024 H1-2023 Operating Performance Gold production oz 25,524 35,482 55,663 76,783 Gold sales oz 24,937 33,608 56,166 76,747 Average realized gold price $/oz 2,334 1,970 2,185 1,926 Cash costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,386 924 1,242 854 All-in sustaining costs1 (AISC) per gold ounce sold $/oz 1,613 1,109 1,452 1,006 Financial Performance Revenue $000s 58,343 66,396 123,028 148,108 Earnings from mine operations $000s 23,167 27,490 50,049 67,160 Net income attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $000s 8,939 11,380 20,636 33,940 Net income per common share attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 Basic $ 0.02 0.03 0.06 0.10 Diluted $ 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.09 Adjusted EBITDA1 $000s 20,491 31,526 46,419 74,171 Adjusted earnings attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $000s 3,326 11,236 11,062 35,810 Adjusted earnings per share attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $ 0.01 0.03 0.03 0.10 Cash and Cash Flow Data Operating cash flow before changes in working capital $000s 15,331 25,228 35,688 66,365 Operating cash flow $000s (51 ) 20,155 13,586 59,081 Free cash flow1 $000s (16,951 ) 8,016 (14,938 ) 39,514 Cash, end of period $000s 11,446 32,309 11,446 32,309

1 Cash costs, AISC, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted earnings, Adjusted earnings per share, and Free cash flow are non-IFRS measures. See Non-IFRS Measures section below for additional information.

Safety: Continued strong safety performance with 1.32 million and 2.73 million hours worked without a lost-time injury for Q2-2024 and H1-2024, respectively.

Continued strong safety performance with 1.32 million and 2.73 million hours worked without a lost-time injury for Q2-2024 and H1-2024, respectively. G rid Power: Gold production, plant throughput, and AISC in Q2-2024 were negatively affected by lower-than-normal availability of the national grid. The Bombore mine successfully connected to the grid at the end of January 2024 and expected to operate on grid power at its historical availability of over 90%. However, Burkina Faso receives power from neighbouring Cote dIvoire and Ghana which began to temporarily reduce power exports in March 2024 due in part to conduct repairs to power generation plants. As a result, grid utilization at the Bombore mine averaged 34% in Q2-2024 with grid blackouts and power dips contributing to 176 hours (8%) of plant downtime. During the quarter, power costs using on-site diesel generators averaged approximately $0.59/kwh whereas grid power cost approximately $0.22/kwh, and this higher power cost impacted AISC for Q2-2024 by an estimated $110 per ounce. Encouragingly, grid availability for July 2024 has significantly improved with utilization in excess of 95% which will help increase gold production and lower operating costs in H2-2024.

Gold production, plant throughput, and AISC in Q2-2024 were negatively affected by lower-than-normal availability of the national grid. The Bombore mine successfully connected to the grid at the end of January 2024 and expected to operate on grid power at its historical availability of over 90%. However, Burkina Faso receives power from neighbouring Cote dIvoire and Ghana which began to temporarily reduce power exports in March 2024 due in part to conduct repairs to power generation plants. As a result, grid utilization at the Bombore mine averaged 34% in Q2-2024 with grid blackouts and power dips contributing to 176 hours (8%) of plant downtime. During the quarter, power costs using on-site diesel generators averaged approximately $0.59/kwh whereas grid power cost approximately $0.22/kwh, and this higher power cost impacted AISC for Q2-2024 by an estimated $110 per ounce. Encouragingly, grid availability for July 2024 has significantly improved with utilization in excess of 95% which will help increase gold production and lower operating costs in H2-2024. Rescoped Phase II Hard Rock Expansion: On May 6, 2024, the Company announced a rescoping of its Phase II expansion into two stages to better align capital requirements with available financing. The Company will now construct a 2.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) hard rock plant for stage one in comparison to the larger 4.4 Mtpa hard rock plant outlined in the 2023 feasibility study.

On May 6, 2024, the Company announced a rescoping of its Phase II expansion into two stages to better align capital requirements with available financing. The Company will now construct a 2.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) hard rock plant for stage one in comparison to the larger 4.4 Mtpa hard rock plant outlined in the 2023 feasibility study. Phase II Expansion Construction Decision and Financing: On July 10, 2024, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had approved a positive construction decision on the Phase II expansion after the Company had secured binding commitments totaling over $105 million in additional debt and equity for the construction. The commitments consisted of binding term sheets for a XOF 35.0 billion (~$58 million) senior secured term loan with Coris Bank International (Coris Bank) and a C$64.9 million (~$47 million) non-brokered private placement of 92,743,855 common shares of Orezone at C$0.70 per share with Nioko Resources Corporation. The Company expects to close on both the loan and private placement in Q3-2024.

On July 10, 2024, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had approved a positive construction decision on the Phase II expansion after the Company had secured binding commitments totaling over $105 million in additional debt and equity for the construction. The commitments consisted of binding term sheets for a XOF 35.0 billion (~$58 million) senior secured term loan with Coris Bank International (Coris Bank) and a C$64.9 million (~$47 million) non-brokered private placement of 92,743,855 common shares of Orezone at C$0.70 per share with Nioko Resources Corporation. The Company expects to close on both the loan and private placement in Q3-2024. Multi-year Exploration Campaign: On July 25, 2024, the Company announced it will initiate a 30,000 metre, multi-year discovery focused drill program designed to test the broader size and scale of the Bombore mineralized system which has a shallow average drill depth for resource definition of only 200 metres across a 14 km strike length. An initial drill program of 5,000 metres centred on the Maga Zone will commence in August 2024.

On July 25, 2024, the Company announced it will initiate a 30,000 metre, multi-year discovery focused drill program designed to test the broader size and scale of the Bombore mineralized system which has a shallow average drill depth for resource definition of only 200 metres across a 14 km strike length. An initial drill program of 5,000 metres centred on the Maga Zone will commence in August 2024. Debt Reduction: Scheduled principal repayment of XOF 6.0 billion ($9.9 million) made in H1-2024 on the Companys Phase I senior loan with Coris Bank. Outstanding principal on the Phase I senior debt stood at XOF 31.0 billion (~$51 million) on June 30, 2024.

Scheduled principal repayment of XOF 6.0 billion ($9.9 million) made in H1-2024 on the Companys Phase I senior loan with Coris Bank. Outstanding principal on the Phase I senior debt stood at XOF 31.0 billion (~$51 million) on June 30, 2024. Liquidity: Cash stood at $11.4 million on June 30, 2024, a decrease of $4.2 million from March 31, 2024 and a decrease of $20.9 million from December 31, 2023. On May 10, 2024, the Company closed and drew down on a XOF 12.0 billion ($19.8 million) bridge loan with Coris Bank in order to improve the Companys cash position which was heavily impacted in H1-2024 by a $22.1 million increase in non-cash working capital, mainly from the build-up of value-added tax (VAT) receivables, payment of income taxes, and reduction in trade payables.

Cash stood at $11.4 million on June 30, 2024, a decrease of $4.2 million from March 31, 2024 and a decrease of $20.9 million from December 31, 2023. On May 10, 2024, the Company closed and drew down on a XOF 12.0 billion ($19.8 million) bridge loan with Coris Bank in order to improve the Companys cash position which was heavily impacted in H1-2024 by a $22.1 million increase in non-cash working capital, mainly from the build-up of value-added tax (VAT) receivables, payment of income taxes, and reduction in trade payables. Board Changes: At the June 7, 2024 annual general meeting of shareholders (AGM), Ms. Tara Hassan was elected as a new director and Mr. Sean Harvey was appointed by the directors as the new Board Chair following the meeting. Mr. Halvorson, a director since 2009 and Board Chair since 2018, and Mr. Charles Oliver, a director since 2017, two long-serving directors that have made substantial contributions to the Companys success, did not stand for re-election at the AGM.

The Phase II Hard Rock Expansion

A hard rock plant, to complement the existing Phase I oxide plant, is required to process the fresh rock and lower transition mineral reserves of the Bombore orebody.

Prior to a formal construction decision on the Phase II expansion, the Company undertook early works activities in order to maintain schedule to deliver first gold before the end of 2025. Approved early works in progress or completed in H1-2024 included front-end engineering and design (FEED) with Lycopodium Minerals Canada Ltd. (Lycopodium), additional camp accommodations and offices, geotechnical investigations, and bulk earthworks on the new plant layout area.

Following the Boards positive construction decision to proceed with the expansion in early July 2024, the Company has released awards on four long-lead equipment packages including a 9MW SAG mill.

The capital cost estimate for this expansion is estimated at $85 million.

2024 Guidance for Bombore Mine

Operating Guidance (100% basis) Unit 2024 Guidance H1-2024 Actuals Gold production Au oz 110,000  125,000 55,663 All-In Sustaining Costs123 $/oz Au sold $1,300 - $1,375 $1,452 Sustaining capital2 $M $14 - $15 $7.3 Growth capital (excluding Phase II Expansion)2 $M $16 - $17 $9.4 Growth capital  Phase II Expansion $M see commentary below Unchanged

AISC is a non-IFRS measure. See Non-IFRS Measures section below for additional information. Foreign exchange rates used to forecast cost metrics include XOF/USD of 600 and CAD/USD of 1.30. Government royalties included in AISC assumes an average gold price of $2,000 per oz.

Gold production in 2024 is forecasted to range between 110,000 to 125,000 gold ounces with production more weighted to the second half of the year due to mining in the higher grade southern zone of the mining permit. Mining was confined to the northern zone of the mining permit in the first half of the year with staged access to higher-grade southern pits (Siga East and Siga South) planned in the second half as Phases II and III of the resettlement action plan (RAP) progress. Mining in the Siga East pit commenced in June 2024 and will continue to ramp up through Q3-2024. Haul roads to Siga South are in place and grade control drilling is being advanced in key areas with mining scheduled in Q4-2024.

AISC per ounce sold for 2024 is estimated to fall within the range of $1,300/oz to $1,375/oz. AISC per ounce sold in H2-2024 is forecasted to be materially lower than H1-2024 as mining advances south to Siga East and Siga South thereby accessing softer near surface oxide ore at higher grades resulting in better gold production and operating costs. In addition, grid availability is expected to now continue at normal high levels in H2-2024 (as evidenced by grid availability in excess of 95% in July 2024) resulting in higher mill throughput and lower power costs.

BOMBORE GOLD MINE (100% BASIS)  OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS

Q2-2024 Q2-2023 H1-2024 H1-2023 Safety Lost-time injuries frequency rate per 1M hours 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Personnel-hours worked 000s hours 1,322 1,037 2,372 1,965 Mining Physicals Ore tonnes mined tonnes 1,966,547 1,927,753 4,369,080 4,132,809 Waste tonnes mined tonnes 3,451,757 3,152,264 6,574,856 5,534,399 Total tonnes mined tonnes 5,418,305 5,080,017 10,943,936 9,667,208 Strip ratio waste:ore 1.76 1.64 1.50 1.34 Processing Physicals Ore tonnes milled tonnes 1,428,396 1,400,160 2,784,015 2,845,853 Head grade milled Au g/t 0.64 0.87 0.71 0.92 Recovery rate % 86.8 91.1 88.0 91.7 Gold produced Au oz 25,524 35,482 55,663 76,783 Unit Cash Cost Mining cost per tonne $/tonne 3.29 2.86 3.38 2.89 Mining cost per ore tonne processed $/tonne 8.87 6.46 8.46 6.49 Processing cost $/tonne 9.19 10.72 9.21 9.95 Site general and admin (G&A) cost $/tonne 3.96 3.73 3.87 3.47 Cash cost per ore tonne processed $/tonne 22.02 20.91 21.54 19.91 Cash Costs and AISC Details Mining cost (net of stockpile movements) $000s 12,672 9,050 23,539 18,467 Processing cost $000s 13,120 15,006 25,640 28,328 Site G&A cost $000s 5,654 5,217 10,788 9,883 Refining and transport cost $000s 136 164 253 312 Government royalty cost $000s 4,595 3,930 9,727 8,842 Gold inventory movements $000s (1,625 ) (2,299 ) (209 ) (280 ) Cash costs1 on a sales basis $000s 34,552 31,068 69,738 65,552 Sustaining capital $000s 3,281 4,308 7,299 7,838 Sustaining leases $000s 73 - 146 187 Corporate G&A cost $000s 2,319 1,883 4,388 3,614 All-In Sustaining Costs1 on a sales basis $000s 40,225 37,259 81,571 77,192 Gold sold Au oz 24,937 33,608 56,166 76,747 Cash costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,386 924 1,242 854 All-In Sustaining Costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,613 1,109 1,452 1,006

1 Non-IFRS measure. See Non-IFRS Measures section for additional details.

Bombore Production Results

Q2-2024 vs Q2-2023

Gold production in Q2-2024 was 25,524 ounces, a decline of 28% from the 35,482 ounces produced in Q2-2023. The lower gold production is attributable to a 26% decrease in head grades and a 5% decrease in plant recoveries, partially offset by a 2% increase in plant throughput. The better head grades achieved in Q2-2023 were primarily the result of processing high-grade stockpiles accumulated during the Phase I construction, which were fully depleted by June 2023, and from the sequencing of higher-grade pits in earlier periods of the mine plan. Plant recoveries were lower in Q2-2024 primarily due to the greater blend of transition ore in the mill feed as mining deepens in certain pits. The presence of transition ore results in slightly lower metallurgical recoveries and additional plant maintenance due to the harder nature of the ore. In addition, instability in operational controls from grid power interruptions unrelated to Bombore operations contributed to a marginal dip in recoveries in Q2-2024.

Plant downtime caused by grid blackouts and power dips, and time lost to switch to back-up gensets, also negatively impacted plant operations in Q2-2024. In response, the Company successfully improved hourly plant throughput by increasing mill power draw and reducing residence time in the CIL circuit without a noticeable effect on recovery rates, leading to a monthly record of 525K tonnes processed in June 2024.

Plant throughput, head grades, and recoveries are expected to improve from a greater blend of softer oxide ore as mining continues to ramp up at Siga East in Q3-2024. Furthermore, reliability of the national grid has significantly increased since the start of July 2024.

H1-2024 vs H1-2023

Gold production in H1-2024 was 55,663 ounces, a decline of 28% from the 76,783 ounces produced in H1-2023. The lower gold production is attributable to a 23% decrease in head grades, a 4% decrease in plant recoveries, and a 2% decrease in plant throughput namely for the same reasons as explained in the above section.

Bombore Operating Costs

Q2-2024 vs Q2-2023

AISC per gold ounce sold in Q2-2024 was $1,613, a 45% increase from $1,109 per ounce sold in Q2-2023. The higher AISC is primarily the result of: (a) lower Q2-2024 gold production and sales as explained above; (b) greater per ounce royalty costs from new royalty rates that took effect in October 2023, coupled with a higher realized selling price; and (c) increased mining costs with deeper pits, harder transition ore being mined and higher strip ratio per tonne processed.

Cash cost per ore tonne processed in Q2-2024 was $22.02 per tonne, an increase of 5% from $20.91 per tonne in Q2-2023. The higher cash cost in Q2-2024 was predominantly due to greater mining and site G&A costs with costs per ore tonne processed increasing by 37% ($8.87 versus $6.46) for mining and 5% ($3.96 versus $3.73) for site G&A. Mining costs have increased as lower benches are mined resulting in longer hauls and more transition material that requires drill-and-blast prior to excavation and greater rehandle prior to feeding into the dump pocket on the ROM pad. In addition, unit mining costs have increased from a higher strip ratio and more management fees from the mobilization of a second mining contractor in July 2023 to supplement material movement of the main mining contractor. Site G&A costs reflect greater spending for security as the Company expands its operations into the southern portion of the mining permit.

Processing costs per ore tonne in Q2-2024 was $9.19 per tonne, a decrease of 14% from $10.72 per tonne in Q2-2023. Unit processing costs were expected to decline by over $3 per tonne in Q2-2024 from 2023 levels upon the introduction of grid power to the Bombore mine at the end of January 2024; however, the power cost savings from using grid power have been offset by a greater blend of transition ore requiring higher per tonne consumption of power, grinding media, and main reagents, and more plant maintenance to address higher equipment wear. Furthermore, the mine relied on more self-generated power beginning in March 2024 from lower-than-expected grid availability directly impacted by issues with the Ghanian and Cote dIvoire supply systems as explained above. Grid utilization was historically low in Q2-2024, but gradually improved throughout the quarter from 18% in April to 58% in June, and normalizing to over 95% starting in July.

H1-2024 vs H1-2023

AISC per gold ounce sold in H1-2024 was $1,452, a 44% increase from $1,006 per ounce sold in H1-2023. The higher AISC were due namely for the same reasons as explained in the above section.

Bombore Growth Capital Projects

Grid Power Connection

The commissioning of the powerline to connect Bombore to Burkina Fasos national energy grid commenced in January 2024 and was successfully energized by the end of the same month. As of June 30, 2024, the Company has incurred costs of $19.7M, of which $0.3M was incurred in Q2-2024 ($1.4M in H1-2024). The Company continues to make minor upgrades to the grid connection by installing equipment and software to reduce the transfer time to back-up gensets.

RAP Phases II and III

RAP Phases II and III involve the construction of three new resettlement communities (MV3, MV2, and BV2) in order to relocate households currently residing within the southern half of the Bombore mining permit. The Company sequenced MV3 first, followed by MV2 and BV2, to prioritize mining areas closest to the processing plant.

The construction of homes and relocation of families to the new MV3 resettlement community were successfully completed in Q2-2024, and in parallel, construction of MV2 commenced with site establishment activities and award of contracts to local companies. Compensation payments to affected residents for loss of land, crops, trees, and private structures continue to progress.

As of June 30, 2024, the Company has incurred project-to-date costs of $18.6M for RAP Phases II and III, of which $5.0M was incurred in Q2-2024 ($8.1M in H1-2024).

NON-IFRS MEASURES

The Company has included certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that is not defined under IFRS, including cash costs, AISC, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted earnings, adjusted earnings per share, and free cash flow. Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company uses such measures to provide additional information and they should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. For a complete description of how the Company calculates such measures and reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms, refer to Non-IFRS Measures in the Managements Discussion and Analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 which is incorporated by reference herein.

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

The condensed consolidated interim financial statements and Managements Discussion and Analysis are available at www.orezone.com and on the Companys profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Orezone will host a conference call and audio webcast to discuss 2024 second quarter results on August 7, 2024 at 8:00am PT (11:00am ET).

Webcast

Date: Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Time: 8:00 am Pacific time (11:00 am Eastern time)

Please register for the webcast here: Orezone Q2-2024 Conference Call and Webcast

Conference Call

Toll-free in U.S. and Canada: 1-800-715-9871

International callers: +646-307-1963

Event ID: 9401780

QUALIFIED PERSONS

The scientific and technical information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Rob Henderson, P. Eng, Vice-President of Technical Services and Mr. Dale Tweed, P. Eng., Vice-President of Engineering, both of whom are Qualified Persons as defined under NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Orezone Gold Corporation

Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE OTCQX: ORZCF) is a West African gold producer engaged in mining, developing, and exploring its 90%-owned flagship Bombore Gold Mine in Burkina Faso. The Bombore mine achieved commercial production on its Phase I oxide operations on December 1, 2022, and is now focussed on its staged Phase II hard rock expansion that is expected to materially increase annual and life-of-mine gold production from the processing of hard rock mineral reserves. Orezone is led by an experienced team focused on social responsibility and sustainability with a proven track record in project construction and operations, financings, capital markets, and M&A.

The technical report entitled Bombore Phase II Expansion, Definitive Feasibility Study is available on SEDAR+ and the Companys website.

Patrick Downey

President and Chief Executive Officer

Vanessa Pickering

Manager, Investor Relations

Tel: 1 778 945 8977 / Toll Free: 1 888 673 0663

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / www.orezone.com

For further information please contact Orezone at +1 (778) 945-8977 or visit the Companys website at www.orezone.com.

The Toronto Stock Exchange neither approves nor disapproves the information contained in this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain information that constitutes forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian Securities laws and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws (together, forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as plan, expect, project, intend, believe, anticipate, estimate, potential, possible and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions may, will, could, or should occur.

All forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, terrorist or other violent attacks, the failure of parties to contracts to honour contractual commitments, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; unexpected failure or inadequacy of infrastructure, the possibility of project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, accidents and equipment breakdowns, political risk, unanticipated changes in key management personnel, the spread of diseases, epidemics and pandemics diseases, market or business conditions, the failure of exploration programs, including drilling programs, to deliver anticipated results and the failure of ongoing and uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, and other factors described in the Company's most recent annual information form and managements discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR+ on www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to the Companys ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; the Companys ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 4, 2020) - West Mining Corp. ("West" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company's common shares have been approved for listing on the Canadian Securities Exchange, with trading in the shares to commence under the symbol " WEST... Read More






Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - American actor, Akili McDowell has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with the shooting death of a 20-year-old man in Houston, Texas on July 20.

The Billions actor, 21, was booked into the Harris County Jail on Thursday, August 1 on charges of murder and theft.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office confirmed McDowell had been charged with the muder of Cesar Peralta in a social media post on August 3.

Deputies responded to an incident that occurred in the parking lot of an apartment complex at 13503 North Thorntree, near Wallisville and Uvalde in East Harris County around 9.15pm.

The post read: 'An adult male (possibly in his 20s) sustained gunshot wounds and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Suspect(s) fled the scene.'

An update to the post read: 'Homicide Investigators charged Akili McDowell (21) with murder in the shooting de@th of Cesar Peralta (20). McDowell was recently taken into custody and booked into the Harris County Jail.'

'The investigation is on-going and we encourage anyone with info to contact the Homicide Unit at 713-274-9100.'

Peralta was not armed.

Per online jail records, McDowell is being held on $400,000 bond for the murder charge and has a court appearance scheduled for Monday, August 5.

Per Click2Houston, his bond is set at $210 for the theft offense.

He has a further court date appearance scheduled for August 6 for the theft charge, and an additional date on October 9 for the murder charge.

McDowells manager Jonell Whitt told Law&Crime the arrest was a 'an unfortunate situation and I am in prayer for Akili and those impacted by this tragedy.

'I respectfully have no comment at this time.'

Jail records obtained by the publication show the theft charge appears to be connected to a misdemeanor case from July 2023 after McDowell allegedly stole a pair of headphones.

Documents stated that he was 'charged with murder while on bond for theft.'

McDowell is known for starring as David in OWN's David Makes Man which followed a 14-year-old named David from the projects 'who is haunted by the death of his friend and relied on by his hardworking mother to find a way out of poverty.'






Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - In a dramatic turn of events, a large group of angry pupils in Katlehong gathered at Paseka Pastor Mboro Motsoeneng's church and set it on fire on Tuesday morning.

This incident follows a video that surfaced on Monday, August 5, showing Motsoeneng swinging a knife at a local school.

Pastor Mboro, a controversial figure, claims he went to the school to rescue his son, who was allegedly being attacked by staff members while picking up his grandchildren. The video depicts him forcibly taking the crying and screaming children from the school in Katlehong.

The pupils, enraged by the incident, retaliated by targeting Mboro's church. The fire caused significant damage, and authorities are currently investigating the situation. This incident has escalated tensions in the community, highlighting the need for dialogue and resolution.

Local authorities have urged calm and called for an end to the violence, stressing the importance of addressing grievances through peaceful means.

Watch a video from the scene below




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has trashed the so-called broad-based government by President William Ruto and Azimio Leader Raila Odinga.

In a statement, Wamuchomba sensationally claimed that the broad-based government is a collection of the country's problems brought together.

She took issue with the increased net worth of cabinet nominees who were retained by Ruto, terming them as thieves and looters.

The lawmaker claimed that it was only in the lottery that some kind of wealth increment was possible, adding that the Parliament vetting committee did not do a thorough investigation.

"The proposed government formation is a collection of Kenyas problems brought together, broad-based problems.

"Its only a lottery that can give you Sh100 million more in one year without doing business and no account of taxes paid.

"Are all those former CSs with increased wealth of over Sh100 million gamblers?

"I wonder. Do we have any conscience left in leadership in Kenya?

"MPs can literally smile as they listen to how ones wealth increased miraculously and dont bother to probe further," Wamuchomba remarked.

She claimed that the younger generation wanted a new cabinet, not a reshuffle and that they did not appreciate the regional balance.

"Ignoring their demand is very worrying. These young patriots dont appreciate tribal and regional balancing.

"This is an outdated political approach. We must seek to understand and interpret their scripts after all, they are the majority Kenyans," Wamuchomba added.

This comes even as ODM leader Raila Odinga on Monday defended the nomination of ODM members to the cabinet, claiming that the government had begged him for experts.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - An outspoken Wiper Democratic Movement Member of Parliament has stated that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua may be impeached soon.

In a Tuesday interview with a local media station, Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu revealed that some Mt Kenya MPs had taken serious steps regarding the motion to impeach the Deputy President.

The Wiper MP advised Gachagua to brace himself for an impending impeachment motion.

"The deputy president, and what I was saying is this, where there is smoke, some, even if you don't see the fire, there is a fire somewhere, what is happening is that the DP needs to prepare himself because I've not been asked to sign but I can tell you for sure there are moves.

"There are serious moves," Mulu said

According to the Wiper lawmaker, the impeachment motion centers around the supremacy battle between Gachagua and a section of MPs from the Mt Kenya region.

The lawmaker argued that the MPs are determined to impeach Gachagua to ensure that he cannot influence their re-election in 2027.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has blasted Nairobi County Governor, Johnson Sakaja, accusing him of neglecting Nairobi residents who put him in office.

Speaking in an interview with Mt Kenya media outlets on Sunday, Gachagua accused Sakaja of neglecting the city and instead focusing on his 2027 re-election bid.

"Sakaja was voted in overwhelmingly by our (Mt Kenya) people. We had a lot of hope in him but he has failed. Nairobi is not only untidy but in bad shape, he said.

During the tenure of Nairobi Metropolitan Service, everything was working well. Today, Sakajas main focus is to fight leaders allied to me..

He added:  We have leaders like Embakasi North MP James Mwangi Gakuya, and Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru who have been vocal about the problems Nairobi is facing.

We have seen a new trend now where someone has been intimidating and threatening them because they are calling for a better Nairobi.

According to Gachagua, Nairobi has serious problems of garbage disposal and congestion that Sakaja has failed to address.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Principal Secretary of Foreign Affairs Dr. Korir Singoei has called for strict regulation of Gen Z protests, which he termed as pollution to the Kenyan space.

In a statement posted on X, Singoei labeled the protests, which began in June, as a form of societal pollution.

He argued that the repercussions of such unrest are borne by the private sector, which has been struggling under the weight of continuous disruptions.

Part of the reason to regulate and firmly deal with violent and chaotic protests is that protestors do not internalise the cost of their actions, Singoei commented.

This cost is transferred and borne by someone elsethe private sector. Like pollution, violent protests must be regulated before they cause irremediable public cost.

The PSs call for regulation comes in response to a report indicating that Kenyas private sector experienced the slowest job growth since January 2024.

This comes as the country awaits another showdown on Thursday where Gen Zs have organized the mother of all protests, under the banner of #NaneNanematch, to force President William Ruto to resign.

The organisers have promised a peaceful demonstration but have also issued warnings against any attempts to disrupt the protest.

This ongoing unrest has already prompted notable changes, including the withdrawal of the controversial Finance Bill 2024, political reorganization, and a cabinet reshuffle.

Dr. Singoeis call for regulation is not only a reflection of the growing frustration with the current state of affairs but also a signal of the governments intent to address the economic fallout of continued protests.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Gladys Boss Shollei has exposed the existence of 267 cancer-causing pesticides on sale in Kenya.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, Shollei noted that she sought the firing of the Pest Products Control Board members for failing to safeguard Kenyans' health.

"There has been a document called the Pesticide Atlas that was developed by 20 scientists from the University of Nairobi. It has been confirmed that 267 pesticides that are banned in America and Europe are in Kenya," she stated.

"I have written a petition to the Minister of Agriculture requesting for the removal of Pest Products Control Board Members from Office because they have failed and endangered Kenyans' lives."

Shollei further revealed that one of the products identified as Roundup, which was banned in Kenya, was rebranded and is still on sale in Kenya.

The lawmaker indicated that when she put up a fight against the multinationals to take the harmful products off the market, she received death threats.

"The issue here is that the people who are being fought, the agrochemical companies are extremely powerful," she added.

During the time when I was rallying the country against these products, I was threatened with death.

"So, it is big money and if we don't act as Parliament, we continue to kill people because it is confirmed that they cause cancer and other non-communicable diseases," Shollei stated.

In April, the government revoked the trading license of KEL Chemicals after the company was accused of selling substandard fertilisers to farmers.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Renowned political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi has urged Kenyan youths, commonly known as Gen Zs, to stop calling for President William Ruto's resignation, arguing that if he resigns, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will take over.

Gen Zs have organized a major protest on Thursday, called NaneNaneMarch, to demand President William Ruto's resignation over alleged bad governance.

However, Ngunyi, in a social media post, urged Gen Zs to stop the NaneNaneMarch, arguing that it will not lead to any significant change.

This #NaneNaneMarch will go NOWHERE.

"If Ruto RESIGNS, Riggy G becomes President.

"Different MONKEY, same FOREST.

"If this doesn't work, the Military takes OVER with different monkeys.

"How is this a SOLUTION? Dear GenZ and GoonZ, you are NOT the ONLY Kenyans.

"Your NONSENSE must STOP, Ngunyi wrote on his X

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024  Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has sent a message to Narc Kenya chairperson Martha Karua, who criticized former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during a live TV interview.

In an interview on Citizen TV Tuesday evening, Karua accused Raila Odinga of betraying Kenyans by making a deal with President William Ruto.

But in a statement on his X account, Kaluma defended Odinga, noting that Kenya is a multi-party democracy, where all citizens are part of the government, albeit through different political parties.

Kaluma urged for a fight for good governance within the bounds of the law, and not through chaos.

We dont take kindly unfair attacks on @RailaOdinga.

"Kenya is a multi-party democratic state. All Kenyans are in government but in different political parties.

"Lets fight for good governance within the law, not anarchy. Allow us to respect you as our leader, Kaluma stated.

Karua spoke a week after five of Raila Odingas lieutenants were nominated to Ruto's cabinet

The five are; Hassan Joho(Mining and Blue Economy CS), Wycliffe Oparanya ( Cooperatives and MSMEs CS), John Mbadi(Treasury and Economic Planning ), Opiyo Wandayi( Energy and Petroleum), and Beatrice Moe (East Africa Community Affairs CS).

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - A man has issued a warning after a botched hair coloration left him with a swollen head.

Ryan Briggs, 27, from Lancashire, UK, said the horrible incident occurred in July at his mothers house after she gave him dye to cover up his gray hairs.

I applied the dye and it did burn a little bit, but I thought thats what it does, the gas technician told Kennedy News Agency. Obviously, it wasnt [meant to].

Briggs awoke the next day with a tiny rash, which he initially didnt think anything of, until his head started expanding, he recalled.

I was at work and it just escalated from there. I looked like Megamind  it was bad.





Accompanying photos show Briggs with a bloated band encircling his forehead.

I didnt look like myself at all. It was massive, Ryan Briggs said.

He added that his gobsmacked girlfriend couldnt look at him because he resembled a balloon head.

My colleagues said, You need to get to the hospital,' said Briggs, who heeded their advice.

Despite his extreme swelling, doctors told the patient to return home and report back if his condition deteriorated, which it unfortunately did.

I thought Id wake up and itd be gone, but I woke up and it was totally different, lamented the Brit, who called an ambulance to pick him up as he couldnt see due to the swelling.

Doctors said Briggs condition was triggered by paraphenylenediamine (PPD), a known irritant and allergen commonly found in hair dyes.

Briggs spent 13 hours in the hospital while medics attempted to prevent the swelling from reaching his neck and airways.

He was subsequently discharged after which his girlfriend had to buy unspecified prescription medication for him, as he still couldnt see out of one eye due to the extreme swelling.

His head has since shrunk back to normal, but he says his scalp is full of yellow and green scabs.

Briggs says hes just grateful his throat didnt close up.

It could have been worse  it was going down into my neck and everything, he said.

He is now advising people to take a patch test so they dont die after dyeing.




Thursday, August 7, 2024 - Narc Kenya chairperson, Martha Karua, has revealed why she cant work with President William Ruto, even if an opportunity arises.

Speaking on Tuesday during an interview with Citizen TV, Karua accused President Ruto of dictating what happens in his government, terming him a minister of everything.

I wouldnt work for William Ruto. Whatever changes and whatever quality of people he gets, he is the minister for everything, he will not let anybody work.

"There is no way I would accept to work for William Ruto and they didnt ask me, they also know my position, Karua stated.

The former Azimio One Kenya Alliance running mate went on to accuse President Ruto of lying to Kenyans over the Finance Act 2024, and the abolition of funding for the offices of the First Lady and the Deputy President's spouse.

We have been lied to that the Finance Act was withdrawn yet the petrol levy has gone up by 7 shillings. That we have been lied to about the office of the First, and Second Lady being abolished, and we have seen that they have been reinstated, said Karua.

She concluded by calling Ruto a liar and stating that she cannot work with him due to his dishonesty towards Kenyans..

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Narc Kenya Party Leader Martha Karua has sensationally claimed that President William Ruto set a trap for Azimio Leader Raila Odinga, and the former Prime Minister fell into it unwittingly.

In a statement, Karua noted that Ruto trapped Raila with the African Union Chairmanship position.

She explained that Raila withdrew from active Opposition to focus on securing the African Union Commission (AUC) seat, a position for which he needed the backing of the Kenyan government.

Raila sort of withdrew to campaign for the AU seat for which he needs government backing.

"He has to be proposed by the government of Kenya and I think this is where the trap fell and you can see the timing of entering the government is the submission of his formal submission, Karua stated.

The timing, as Karua noted, was crucial. Raila's shift towards seeking the AU seat coincided with a period when support from the government became indispensable.

According to Karua, this was where the trap was laid by President Ruto.

By requiring Odinga to seek government endorsement, the President effectively neutralized a key opposition leader, ensuring that Raila's ambitions were tethered to the administration's approval.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Lawyer Miguna Miguna has revealed that some of the rogue cops deployed to the streets of Nairobi to unleash terror on protesters during anti-government protests are Oscar Sudis bodyguards.

Miguna revealed the names of the two cops, Gilbert Tenai and Oburu, and posted their phone numbers to the public.

The vocal lawyer urged protesters to turn out in large numbers on Thursday, August 8th, and march to State House to evict President William Ruto.

Check out his tweet.





The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - Passengers on a flight out of Algeria are fortunate to be alive after two of the plane's tires burst during takeoff, snapping a propeller that then shattered a window.

The Bombardier DHC-8-402Q Dash 8 was departing the Rhourd Enous Airfield with 45 passengers on Saturday, August 3, when both tires on one of its two wheels suddenly gave out, photos shows

Debris from one of the popped tires is believed to have struck a propeller and broken off the blade tip, which then ricocheted into a passenger window and smashed it open.

The pilots managed to shut down the engine and made a safe emergency landing back at the airfield.





None of the 45 people on board the turboprop flight were injured during the bizarre incident.

"The crew managed the situation skillfully, following standard procedures to return and land on the same runway without any damage or panic," Tassili Airlines said in a statement.

The travelers were eventually shuttled to their destination on another aircraft.

The passengers are believed to have been workers from Sonatrach, Algerias state-owned oil company.
Interview: China conveys message of openness for further comprehensive reforms, opening-up -- German expert

Xinhua) 08:24, August 07, 2024

An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 2, 2024 shows a container vessel berthing at the smart zero-carbon terminal of Tianjin Port in north China's Tianjin. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

"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. "

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.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)




Wednesday, August 7, 2024  Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has enlisted the help of foreign diplomats to enhance his chances of clinching the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship.

Yesterday, Raila met with Germany's Ambassador Sebastian Groth and UK High Commissioner Neil Wigan to seek support for his AU Chairmanship bid.

The discussions, held against the backdrop of recent political developments, highlighted the importance of a united and stable Africa.

Raila used his official social media platforms to share insights from his meetings with the international envoys.

The Azimio la Umoja leader disclosed that they agreed on how a stable Africa would be beneficial to all international countries party to individual African countries.

"Had productive discussions with Germany's Ambassador Sebastian Groth and UK High Commissioner Neil Wigan on recent developments and my AU Commission candidacy.

We all agree: a strong and stable Africa benefits us all. Grateful for Germany and the UK's continued commitment to engagement," Raila wrote.

Ambassador Groth also expressed his admiration for Raila's vision and reminisced on the latters years of study in Germany after showing linguistic prowess.

"Today had the pleasure to meet Hon Raila Odinga. Talked about politics, his pan-African vision, and his student years in Germany. Very impressed by his German language skills," Groth noted.

The meetings come at a critical time as Odinga ramps up his campaign for the African Union Chairperson (AUC) role.

Known for his long-standing commitment to pan-Africanism and regional integration, Raila's bid has attracted considerable international attention.

His discussions with Groth and Wigan underscore the pivotal role that global partners play in fostering a cohesive and progressive African Union.

The support from Germany and the UK, two influential players on the global stage, is seen as a significant boost to his campaign.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024  ODM Leader Raila Odinga had a very rough time explaining to Gusii leaders why he did not front any Kisii to President William Ruto for appointment into Cabinet.

On Monday, ODM leaders from Gusii confronted Raila during a meeting, demanding explanations for why he overlooked the region in recent Cabinet appointments and Parliamentary leadership, which are predominantly held by MPs from Luo Nyanza.

However, Raila downplayed the concerns, telling the ODM MPs to be considerate of the delicate regional balancing act the party has to navigate through.

"The positions are shared fairly to ensure regional balance without leaving any community out,'' Raila reportedly told the politicians on Monday.

Raila denied that he had sidelined Gusii region, saying both Kisii and Nyamira are his strongholds that he holds dear in his heart.

However, he promised to look into some of the issues raised about the distribution of house leadership slots after MPs complained that they had been denied privileges.

For instance, the MPs, including Bomachoge Borabu's Obadiah Barongo complained that they have been placed in only a few committees while their friends from other ODM support bases are in more than two panels.

Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi asked Raila if he could consider him for the Minority leadership position that is already earmarked for Suna East's Junet Mohamed.

However, Raila was non-commital, indicating that nothing much will change in the house leadership positions as already decided by the Central Management Committee.

"We will look into that and see how we can balance committees,'' Raila told the disgruntled MPs.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga held a meeting with German and UK ambassadors to Kenya to discuss various bilateral issues.

Raila met German Ambassador to Kenya Sebastian Groth and UK High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan

In a statement, Odinga said he discussed his African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson candidacy with the two envoys.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader noted that they agreed on the benefits of a strong and stable African continent.

Had productive discussions with Germany's Ambassador Sebastian Groth and UK High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan on recent developments and my AU Commission candidacy.

We all agree: a strong and stable Africa benefits us all. Grateful for Germany and the UK's continued commitment to engagement, Raila stated.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has announced he will reject three of the cabinet secretaries nominated by President William Ruto for the broad-based cabinet.

In a statement on Wednesday, the youthful lawmaker said he would reject Interior CS nominee Kithure Kindiki, Environment CS nominee Aden Duale, and Roads and Transport CS nominee Davis Chirchir, citing their failure to meet Kenyans' expectations.

Salasya accused Kindiki of not protecting the young anti-government protesters from police brutality during his tenure as the CS for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration.

He also faulted Duale for deploying the Kenya Defence Force to the streets during demonstrations before parliaments approval and Chirchir for not being transparent with information on the government-to-government deal.

Mimi Nita( I will ) reject Kindiki for allowing our young people to be killed by police.

"I will reject Duale for bad intentions of bringing KDF to the streets.

"Davis Chirchir must explain this animal of G to G because up to now no one has information and it never benefited anyone other than a few cartels, Salasya said.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, August 6, 2024 - An American woman who was found chained to a tree "screaming" in a forest in the western Indian state of Maharashtra had blamed her husband, but it has now emerged that she chained herself

Lalita Kayi, 50, was rescued on July 27 from the dense forests of Sindhudurg district after her cries for help were heard by shepherds.

In a written statement to the police, she had alleged that her husband "chained her and left her in the forest to die without food or water".





Ms Kayis predicament had shocked India and police had constituted several teams to investigate how she came to be in the forest.

It has now emerged that there is no husband in the picture.

Saurabh Agarwal, superintendent of police for Sindhudurg, told BBC Marathi on Tuesday, August 6, that Ms Kayi has now said that she was not married and that she was probably suffering from hallucinations when she gave her first statement.

Police said she told them she had been distressed because her visa had run out and she was running out of money, so she had bought locks and chains and tied herself to the tree.

Dr Sanghamitra Phule, superintendent of the psychiatric hospital where Ms Kayi is being treated, told BBC Marathi that "her condition is improving".

"She eats, walks and also exercises. She is under treatment and we are also giving her some nutrients that her body was lacking."

Dr Phule said her family had been traced in the US and that Ms Kayi was in touch with them on the phone.

Ms Kayi, who is receiving treatment in a psychiatric facility, has not spoken publicly.

The US embassy has also refused to comment, citing her right to privacy.

She was found on July 27 by a cow herder who had taken his cattle to graze in the forest and heard "a woman screaming loudly".

"The sound was coming from the forest on the side of the mountain. When I went there, I saw that one of her legs was tied to a tree. She was screaming like an animal. I called other villagers and the local police."

They police sawed off the chain and rescued her. Ms Kayi, who appeared completely emaciated, was taken to hospital and after her physical health improved, she was moved to the psychiatric facility for further treatment.

Police said that on her, they found a copy of her passport - which stated that she was a US citizen who came from Massachusetts - and some other documents with her home address in Tamil Nadu. She also had a mobile phone, a tablet and 31,000 rupees ($370; 290) in her possession.

Ms Kayi, who was initially unable to speak, communicated with the police and doctors by scribbling notes on a pad.

She said she was married to a man in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and blamed him for tying her to the tree.

She claimed that she had gone without food and water for 40 days. Police had questioned her claim, saying it was unlikely that someone would survive without food or water for so long.








Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - The United Nations has called for the accelerated deployment of international security forces to Haiti following a troubling report.

According to the report by the UN, between April and June this year, at least 1,379 individuals were killed or wounded in the ongoing gang warfare, with an additional 428 people kidnapped.

The report from the UN office in Port-au-Prince highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis stating, Service providers report receiving an average of 40 rape victims a day in some areas of the capital.

Despite a recent decrease in casualties from gang conflicts, there is a troubling rise in the recruitment of children into gangs and escalating rates of sexual violence.

The power vacuum left by the assassination of former president Jovenel Moise in July 2021 has enabled armed gangs to seize control over most of the Haitian capital.

The violence reached unprecedented levels, culminating in the resignation of his successor, Ariel Henry, in April this year.

In a bid to restore order and pave the way for free elections next year, the first detachment of an international task force, supervised by the UN, arrived in Port-au-Prince on June 25.

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille has committed to leveraging the support of 400 Kenyan police officers to reclaim control.

Despite a reported 45% decline in killings in the three months following Henrys resignation, street shootouts and human rights violations remain rampant, particularly in Port-au-Prince, where 88% of deaths and injuries have been documented.

Armed gangs continue to besiege neighbourhoods, targeting civilians suspected of collaborating with the police or civilian defense groups.

In late July, a Kenyan police officer who is part of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti suffered a gunshot injury during a gunfight with a section of the gangs.

According to reports, the officer was reportedly shot in the shoulder while attempting to expel the gangs.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, August 7, 2024 - Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has exuded confidence that they will contain the planned protests by the Gen Zs, dubbed 'NaneNaneMarch', on Thursday to force President William Ruto to resign.

Speaking after meeting top police commanders across the country in Embakasi, Masengeli allayed fears, saying the police are prepared and ready to deal with the Gen Z protesters.

Masengeli intimated that security will be heightened across the country though not to an extent that is out of the ordinary.

Every Kenyan as per the law has liberty to demonstrate, picket and assemble as per the law. That one everyone is very much aware of and where the privilege of one ends is where the other starts, he said.

Masengeli said Kenyans are at liberty to demonstrate but peacefully and reiterated that all Kenyans have to live by the rule of law.

"We are governmened by the Rome statute and the Kenyan Constitution," he said, and affirmed that criminal elements will be dealt with firmly.

"On Gen Zs, they have a message and they have been heard. It is upon us now to differentiate between Gen Zs and opportunists who take advantage of those riots to cause mayhem, destruction of property and acts of violence that are not allowed by the Law," the acting IG said.

He urged Kenyans planning to partake in the planned Nane Nane protests to do so in adherence with the law.

"This is a country governed by democracy and the constitution," the acting Police IG emphasized.

The meeting discussions also centered on the operational and logistical challenges facing officers in their jurisdictions and how to address them to ensure efficiency within the NPS.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Purposeful disregard for business education tears away the only platform that guarantees the highest incomes in private medical practice.

Along with the other challenges that continually reinforce physicians financial problems, the indoctrination of all medical students and later physicians with the groupthink myth that has been destroying physician practice careers for the last century is added to the list. You know, You can practice medicine without a business education.

The fact that private/independent medical practice is being erased from the medical profession map doesnt seem to be noticeable. At least there has been no rioting or uproar within the medical profession to reframe the myth with the truth. Medical school education scholars aim at the poverty of physicians, with no regard for their post-medical school careers in the business of medical practice.

Lets look at the consequences of the business education gap

What happens when you:

1. Need to increase your income. You will have to obtain a much larger number of new patients on a persistent basisincome depends on your patient load. How do you do that quickly and efficiently? Without knowing the business tools needed to do that, you lose. It commonly threatens the loss of your practice. Do you have the money to hire business experts? Do you know marketing?

2. Need to expand your skills. Have you set aside the funds to obtain that training? In the USA, a distance trip with transportation, hotel, food, and the cost of training costs over $5,000. Do you have to save up for the trip? Many physicians desire to do that but lack the income to afford it.

3. Need to stay on the cutting edge of your medical knowledge. Many physicians must withdraw money from their take-home pay to afford the new education. Your marital partner may not approve. Your monthly medical education classes, which you attend locally and are required to take, do not serve the purpose.

4. Find that the CPA monthly profit and loss statement is discouraging. Practice income has been down for the last three months. Are you worried? Is it just a seasonal slump that will turn back up with time? Do you know how to read the P and L statements and what they tell you? If you are at the start of your practice disintegration and dont see it, you may later be unable to save your private practice. It happens more often than you might think.

5. Have to shorten or delay vacations with family for financial reasons. Has your practice flattened out in income with no increase in patient load? Lowering and flattening practice income for more than three months is a serious sign of financial problems, and you need help right then. You can do this yourself and save lots of money with business tools.

6. Need enough take-home income to fund your retirement plan. This is a big issue for private practice physicians and often never happens. Wouldnt it be great to earn enough income to never worry about your retirement fund?

7. Need to be able to pay for the kids college education. Especially when college costs keep increasing and your practice income isnt enough. More debt to pay when loans are needed.

8. Meet all your home debts and family needs. Often, this obligation fails, and you must insist that your wife and kids get jobs to help out. Does this make you feel you are at the poverty line? Or are you a failure? Its a common cause for divorce. Did you attend your kids graduations, missed birthdays, anniversaries, or family-expected interactions? Wealthy physicians do. Doesnt that stimulate your action to do better? There is a way out of this.

Do you need to make some important decisions? For example, priorities that demand decisions you dont want to make. I suggest you include these:

1. What factors do you think will make a significant difference in your personal life, medical practice upgrades, and peace of mind in the future? Make a list and prioritize itthen stick to it.

2. If you could pick one action that would provide you with satisfaction in your medical practice, avoid all the financial potholes, and enable you to reach your highest potential in medical practice with no regrets, what would you choose?

Ive failed in my mission if you choose anything other than a business education. If you are unable to justify the need for a business education, it makes me sad and disappointed. You should know that I became a victim of almost everything discussed on these pages. I lost my own specialty private medical practice because of my business ignorance and lack of due diligence.

The rage I had when my 20 years of research on the causes of losing my practice was exposed continues today. I decided to try and do something to prevent it from terrorizing all future private practice physicians who have already been set up to fail (to variable degrees). Nearly all physicians in our nation have no idea why these things happen to them for unrecognized reasons.

Physicians drift toward disobedience and call it freedom. We cherish the discipline of lost self-control and call it relaxation. We drift towards compromise and call it tolerance. We drift toward superstition and call it faith. Our drifting is the way most of us manage our lives. And this is why it is the perfect weakness that permits our government to abuse us without any form of backlash.

Now that our medical school system is deeply integrated into government grants, subsidies, and control, most medical schools cannot exist independently. So it gets down to tolerating the abuse or quitting medicine. It is so easy for our government to replace U.S. physicians with foreign doctors because they have lived in a socialistic society and are used to low-income and dictated medical practice.

Ill be writing far more about how physicians can overcome fee restrictions. The best place for physicians to practice today is private concierge practice, and business education can boost that by 400 percent.

Never conclude that you have reached your maximum status and income unless you already have a business education and are using the tools. We have been teaching business education for over ten years. My membership medical website, which contains over 150 detailed instructional articles about using marketing tools and management guides, will be online soon. This means that you can continue practicing while learning how to do it all.

When you can raise your medical practice income high enough to eliminate your worries about money/income, you are a winner. I know you can do that; after all, you made it into medical school, right?

Curtis G. Graham is a physician.
The remaining nine supporters of the opposition Forum For Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga faction have been granted bail by Buganda Road Magistrates Court.

The group includes FDC-Katonga womens wing leaders; Ingrid Turinawe and Mugume Rolland.

They were released by Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi who ordered each to pay Shs1 million (noncash), while their sureties were bonded Shs5 million (noncash) and ordered that they return back to court on September 4, 2024.

However, the accused are to be released after providing their original national Identification Cards (IDs), work IDs, passports, and LC1 letters.

The demand has, however, been shot down by the accuseds lawyer Erias Lukwago who told court that his clients were unable to find the said documents since they were on remand.

Speaking after the court session, Lukwago revealed that they will be petitioning the Constitutional Court to challenge the said bail guidelines issued by the Chief Justice.

Its a travesty of their justice, these people are incarcerated, their freedoms are curtailed, they cannot in any way talk with their LCs to issue them LC1 letters, Lukwago noted.

Lukwago says the said guidelines defeat the spirit of Article 28 which confers unfettered jurisdiction on courts of law to grant bail once they are satisfied that the accused persons will not jump bail.

He, however, said that they would comply with the said conditions, but emphasized that such conditions should not be applicable to miner cases like in the case which is a misdemeanor in law.

It is a petty offence, there is no reason why these leaders should run away from the jurisdiction of court just because they are charged with common nuisance, Lukawgo said.

He says that the guidelines issued by the Chief Justice are unconstitutional and absurd.

The 14 suspects were arraigned in court on Monday and charged with being a common nuisance but five of them led by the Deputy Kampala Lord Mayor, Doreen Nyanjura, Kira Municipality MP Ssemujju Ibrahim Nganda, Nicholas Thadeus Kamara MP Kabale Municipality, and Harold Kaija were granted bail.

Prosecution alleges that on August 5, 2024, the 14 suspects acted in a disorderly manner on Katonga Road in Kampala, blocking pathways and inconveniencing others, thus constituting a common nuisance.
Parliament spokesperson Mr Chris Obore has described plans by the opposition to boycott the regional Parliamentary sittings as a political stunt.

In May this year, Speaker Anita Among announced plans to hold sittings in four different regions in Uganda.

According to Among, the move offers an opportunity to witness firsthand the challenges bedeviling the common person across the country

Meanwhile, opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) this week distanced themselves from the said regional Parliamentary sittings, describing the Shs20 billion budgeted for this purpose as a waste of taxpayers money, given that each sitting is expected to cost around Shs5 billion.

It is also a popularity stunt for members to say that because of Gulu, they are going to boycott allowances. Thats not the way to go as leaders and I would personally request them to always go slow while talking about their own emoluments and remuneration in parliament because citizens could ask them to go further and boycott salaries and fuel Obore said.

Speaking to journalists at Parliament, Obore said some MPs are so used to living in Kampala that sitting in Gulu will remind them of reality.
A FORMER Newbridge councillor will appear in the High Court in October to sue the state, the minister for housing, the attorney general, and Kildare County Council over the sale of publicly-owned lands in recent years.

In the summons, which was originally submitted on 10 May, the former Independent councillor Fiona McLoughlin Healy  who stood down from Kildare County Council before last Junes Local Elections - alleged "the sale price for the said lands could be interpreted as not being the best reasonable price obtainable".

The legal case arose at a recent council meeting (29 July).

Under statutory business, the council's executive sought to request for the express authorisation of the elected members for the chief executive to act for, and on behalf of Kildare County Council under Section 153(2) of the Local Government Act, 2001 in the case of Fiona McLoughlin Healy v Kildare County Council and others.

For background, Fiona McLoughlin Healy first raised this issue at a full council meeting on 30 November, 2020, after the majority of her colleagues voted 23-4 to accept a recommendation to sell 0.32Ha (0.8ac) of its land to a developer for 100,000.

This was to allow for the development of 18 social houses and 109 private units on a land-locked site in Athgarvan  and the piece of land became known as a ransom strip  where an unscrupulous council could hold such a developer to ransom.

Such a practice is also contrary to the county development plan, because if the council did exercise its power to ransom, this would just then be passed on to the consumer.

Doing this would now allow entry to lands which were zoned for housing three years ago, but had no point of access from public roads.

However, Mas McLoughlin Healy called for the sale to be postponed because she felt the strip of land was undervalued, and sought another surveyors valuation.

Ransom Strip

She pointed out that the planning for two private developments at this location  of 14 houses, and 95 houses  was contingent on this sale, and that the council had a duty to maximize value when making a sale that would open up a 20-30m development.

She was supported by Cllr Suzanne Doyle who suggested it might be prudent to have more than one valuation, but that she was happy to go forward on this today, and not try to inflate prices in a housing crisis.

Two other councillors from her Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District  cllrs Chris Pender, and Noel Heavey  both also supported the idea of a further valuation.

However, Cllr Kevin Duffy noted that the land-locked parcel had been re-zoned in 2017, and had been given Part VIII permission in 2018.

Kildare County Council has used two valuers  Reillys from Prosperous, and OReillys from Naas  to advise it on land valuations in situations like this.

Standing Orders

However, Ms McLoughlin-Healy felt this was not sufficient.

A former colleague of hers pointed out that this advice must then be agreed by the 40-strong elected members, but that we were never asked to vote on the advisors.

She is also taking an action against the state, the minister for housing, and the attorney general.

She believes the standing orders of the council are unconstitutional because the protocols of dictate that a councillor cant raise an issue unless its a council function.

She alleges this device was often used to stop her raising issues around ransom strips at subsequent meetings.

She might very well be right on some particular angle, offered a former colleague.
A Kildare man is driving the length of Ireland along the 2,800km Wild Atlantic Way in a slow-moving open-top vintage tractor to raise funds for the people of Gaza.

Pat Murphy, a father of four who is originally from Corofin in Galway, but living in Sallins with his family, will brave the elements in his 1962 David Brown 850, which can only reach a maximum speed of 24kph.

The drive from Malin Head in Donegal to Mizen Head in Cork should only take eight hours in a modern vehicle on a more direct route, but Pat expects his tractor will do it in about two weeks taking the coastal Wild Atlantic Way.

The tractor can probably do a maximum speed of 24kph [15mph] so it will be a long journey, but for a very worthy cause, said Pat, who teaches woodwork at the Wesley College secondary school in Ballinteer.

It is a 62 year old David Brown that has been fully restored. It has no power steering or cabin, just fresh air. If it rains, Ill be just going through it.

There is no suspension either and not a lot of comfort so I will have an extra cushion on the seat, which will make a huge difference.

I will also be wearing a lot of factor 50 and a sombrero hat to protect me from the sun and it can actually get very cool in an open top tractor so I have a heavy coat with me too. He began his trek on Thursday (1 August) at 2pm at Malin Head and will be accompanied by his friend Tony Harrison from Ballina in Mayo who will be driving a camper van where he will sleep each night.

All proceeds will go to the humanitarian aid organisation Concern Worldwide and its Gaza appeal. Pat chose Concern because of his past involvement with the charity as a volunteer in Rwanda in 1995 and 1996 after the brutal genocide that occurred there.

I really value the work that Concern does, especially after working for them in refugee camps after the Rwanda genocide, he said.

The people of Gaza really need our help today. Anybody who has been the pictures on television knows that the people there need our support. Another friend, Brendan Joyce, transported Pats tractor from Corofin, where he grew up, to Malin Head and will collect it when they reach Irelands most south-westerly point at Mizen Head.

Pat hopes to raise at least 5,000 on his GoFundMe page called Malin to Mizen  Charity Tractor Run for Concern and has already raised over 3,000.

We will have signs up on the vehicles to show people how they can support us on our GoFundMe page and I will be posting my progress of the journey each day on my Facebook and Instagram pages, he said.

To support Pat Murphys tractor fundraising trek for Gaza, go to his GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/f7046b8d and his Instagram page is called Murphsmeander_malintomizen.
Green Party TD for Carlow-Kilkenny and Minister for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan has welcomed the news that June and July were the two best months on record for solar energy.

According to data from Green Collective, an open source data collector, the sun generated a record 3.5% of Irelands energy over the last two months, with figures showing communities and households across Kilkenny are benefitting from this 'solar revolution'.

The national growth in solar is reflected in the figures for Kilkenny. In the last four years over 1,300 households in Kilkenny have availed of SEAI grants to install solar PV panels and an incredible 69% of those were in the last year alone. That compares to just 57 homes in Kilkenny installing solar from 2015 to 2019.

FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE

So far in 2024 over 100,000 homes across the country have installed solar panels.

"Irelands solar revolution is real, and solar energy is now creating thousands of jobs, securing Irelands energy supply, and reducing both emissions and household energy bills," Mr Noonan commented.

"Its clear solar is becoming increasingly attractive to people, and with the payback period now as low as six years, there are huge savings to be had," Minister Noonan added.

"Kilkenny householders can reduce their energy bills, protect themselves from global energy price spikes, and sell their excess electricity back to the grid. Now is definitely the time to take advantage of the opportunity thats there to use clean energy to lower bills and carbon emissions."
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.
Motorists have to sit in the middle of the road, waiting to be hit from behind at a dangerous junction on the Durrow to Ballyragget road, says one local councillor.



Councillor Mary Hilda Cavanagh has called for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to install a ghost island at the Lisdowney junction on the N77, to improve road safety.



At the recent meeting of the Castlecomer Municipal District councillors, Cllr Cavanagh proposed That TII be requested to install a ghost island for traffic turning towards Lisdowney from the Durrow side from the N77 as is the case for traffic going into Tirlan.



Millions are being spent upgrading the main Ballyragget to Durrow road, she pointed out. TII are creating a fantastic road, but for people who are coming from Durrow to Ballyragget and want to turn right, towards Lisdowney, they have to sit in the middle of the road, waiting for traffic to come along and hit them from behind.

Cllr Cavanagh explained to the meeting that TII say they cant put in a traffic island because it is unsafe.

Cllr Michael Delaney said Cllr Cavanagh was 100% right especially now with the road works with people not obeying the lights.

Cllr Cavanagh proposed the council write to TII with her requests, with the agreement of all.

Work on the 12 million Ballyragget to Ballynaslee realignment project began last February and will straighten out the road.
Irish police will provide full co-operation to investigations into anyone who took part in recent violent disorder in the UK, Irelands justice minister has said.

Helen McEntee said she reaffirmed a shared commitment with the UK Government on a range of matters during a call with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.

Ms McEntee said An Garda Siochana, Irelands police service, would fully co-operate with all investigations involving any people from Ireland who have participated in recent riots.

In a statement, she said: We discussed the ongoing disturbances across the United Kingdom over the last week.

We spoke about the common challenges faced by governments and countries across Europe, including similar escalations of violence in Ireland in recent times with anti-migrant undercurrents.

Assaulting police officers, burning buildings and attacking public amenities cannot be tolerated in a democratic society.

We agreed on the importance of countering racism, supporting our migrant communities, and bringing to justice the perpetrators of such terrible violence.

I noted the strong, ongoing co-operation between the gardai and UK police services and assured the Home Secretary of the full co-operation of gardai, if needed, on investigations involving any people from this jurisdiction who have participated in acts of violent disorder.

We also spoke about protecting the Common Travel Area, which is vital to the daily lives of so many Irish and British citizens, and our joint commitment to preventing any abuse of it.
A group from Kilkenny was among the 250 teenagers from around the world to gather in Maynooth University for Foroiges Leadership for Life Youth Conference.

The conference, which was launched last week, brings together young people to learn the skills and confidence to become leaders in their own lives and communities.

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.

READ MORE: KILKENNY SHOE SHOP CELEBRATES 35 YEARS

Sean Campbell, CEO of Foroige, said: Leadership for Life is a circuit-breaker programme and can truly be life-changing for young people. 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.

As part of the week-long conference, the delegates met inspirational guest speakers including:
Before the Olympics there were multiple stories about how Russia will be behind attempts to disrupt the Olympics. Then the trains were struck disrupting a million people, and Russia was fingered.

But I was sceptical. Not that Russia ia a malign actor, but disrupting transport links tends to be the modus operandi of left and environmental groups. And are enough it is reported:

French police arrested an ultra-Left activist at a railway site on Sunday (local time) after coordinated sabotage attacks caused chaos and disruption ahead of Fridays Olympics opening ceremony. The man arrested in Oissel near Rouen, northern France, had in his vehicle access keys to (state rail operator) SNCF technical premises, wire cutters, a set of universal keys and other items, as well as literature with links to the ultra-Left, a police source told Le Parisien. He was also found carrying ultra-Left literature with him and a book by Romain Huet called The Vertigo of the Riot: from the Zad to the Yellow Vests. Zad, or zones a defendre (zones to defend) are sites occupied by eco-warriors to prevent what they consider environmentally harmful development projects from being carried out.

This is not a surprise.

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Regulations on e-commerce companies and payment gateway providers to be tightened

By Lee Yeon-woo

The government will provide 1.2 trillion won ($870 million) in liquidity support to aid sellers affected by the TMON and WeMakePrice crisis, while also ensuring that full refunds for general products will be completed within this week.

To prevent further incidents, the settlement period for e-commerce companies and payment gateway providers will be set to less than 40 days. A payment gateway refers to a settlement agent service that reads payment cards and sends information to e-commerce sites and online retailers.

These measures were announced by the government on Wednesday during a meeting chaired by Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok. The discussion focused on additional support for affected customers and sellers, as well as improvements to the system.

As of Aug. 1, the total unsettled payments for the two Korean affiliates of Singapore-based e-commerce platform Qoo10 amounted to 278.3 billion won. Consumer losses related to general products, travel products and gift certificates are estimated at 59.4 billion won. With the number of claims continuing to rise, the overall losses are expected to increase further.

Refunds for customers who purchased general products will be completed within this week. For travel products and gift certificates, which involve disputes over rights between travel agencies, credit card companies and payment gateway providers, the government will pursue consumer relief by engaging in dispute mediation with the Korea Consumer Agency.

The central and local governments have joined hands to support sellers, providing over 1.2 trillion won of liquidity. Starting Wednesday, the government will also extend the maturity of existing loans and guarantees for affected companies by up to one year. Employment retention subsidies and livelihood loans will be provided to minimize employment instability.

Stricter regulations on e-commerce payment systems

Until now, e-commerce companies and payment gateway providers have set settlement periods and managed sales proceeds independently based on their own terms and contracts, without specific legal regulations.

In general, the payment process is segmented into several stages: consumer, credit card company, primary payment gateway provider, secondary payment gateway provider (online platform in this case) and vendor. If any one of these stages encounters a payment default, it can trigger a chain reaction, transferring risk throughout the entire system, according to the Financial Supervisory Service.

In response, the government plans to amend relevant laws to mandate settlement periods. The new regulations are expected to enforce shorter periods than the current 40-60 days stipulated for large-scale retailers. Corrective orders and fines will be imposed in case of violations. The specific details will be finalized after consulting with industry stakeholders and experts.

Additionally, the government plans to require that e-commerce companies and payment gateway providers manage a certain percentage of sales money through methods such as deposits, trusts or payment guarantee insurance.

"The government has determined that preventing the adverse effects of e-commerce insolvencies from impacting sellers and consumers is of utmost importance. We thereby aimed to implement the strongest and most direct regulations possible to govern e-commerce practices," an official from the finance ministry said.
By Yi Whan-woo

Korea achieved its largest current account surplus in almost seven years last month, fueled by strong exports of semiconductors and other major products, according to the Bank of Korea (BOK), Wednesday.

Preliminary data on the global current account balance, the broadest measure of cross-border trade, revealed that Korea posted a surplus of $12.26 billion in June, the BOK said.

The figure exceeded the $8.92 billion surplus set in May and was the largest since September 2017, when the surplus amounted to $12.34 billion.

As a result, Korea's cumulative current account surplus for the first six months of this year reached $37.73 billion, a significant increase from the $1.15 billion surplus set during the same period in 2023.

The January-June surplus exceeded the Bank of Koreas estimate of $27.9 billion. The central bank projects that the surplus for the second half of the year will reach $32.1 billion and that the annual surplus will surpass $60 billion.

The higher-than-expected surplus is attributed to Koreas trade balance remaining positive since April 2023.

The trade surplus for goods reached $11.47 billion in June, an increase from $8.75 billion in May.

In June, exports increased by 8.7 percent year-over-year to $58.82 billion, while imports decreased by 5.7 percent to $47.35 billion.

In particular, exports have continued to rise for the ninth consecutive month as of June, driven by increased overseas demand for semiconductors, mobile devices, petroleum products, and other items.

Outbound shipments of semiconductors surged by 50.4 percent year-on-year. Mobile devices and petroleum product exports also saw increases, rising by 26 percent and 8.5 percent, respectively.

The central bank expects the surplus to persist as the global recovery in the manufacturing sector continues to boost exports.

"The U.S. economy, possibilities of an AI investment slowdown, the monetary policies of major economies and geopolitical risks such as the U.S. presidential election and the conflict in the Middle East are adding to uncertainties," Song Jae-chang, head of financial statistics at the BOK said.

Regarding concerns about the potential impact of a U.S. recession on Korea's current account, Song said it is premature to anticipate a slump based solely on job and manufacturing indices.

"We should consider additional economic indicators and corporate performance reports that have yet to be released," he added.

He added that, despite uncertainties in their revenue models, major U.S. tech firms have indicated they will continue investing, which should support the ongoing positive trend in chip exports.

Meanwhile, Korea's service account deficit amounted to $1.62 billion in June, widening from a $1.29 billion shortfall in May.

The service account deficit was largely attributable to a travel deficit, driven by pent-up demand for overseas tourism.

The primary income account, which includes monthly salaries and investment income, reached a surplus of $2.69 billion, driven by increased dividend income from overseas.

The dividend income account posted a surplus of $2.34 billion in June, up from $1.13 billion in May.

The financial account, which tracks cross-border capital flows excluding transactions in goods and services, showed a net outflow of $12.24 billion in June.

Overseas direct investments by domestic residents increased by $4.89 billion, while foreign direct investments shrank by $370 million.
The presidential office urged the National Assembly on Wednesday to positively review the government's proposal to scrap the soon-to-be implemented capital gains tax amid the volatile financial markets.

The spokesperson's office issued the statement as calls have grown for discarding the scheme to levy at least 20 percent tax on annual capital gains from financial investments exceeding 50 million won ($36,289) beginning next year.

"Under the circumstance that most people agree on scrapping the capital gains tax, persisting uncertainties over its implementation is not appropriate," the office said, calling for the parliament to "swiftly" discuss the issue in "a positive manner."

Legislated in December 2020, the tax is scheduled to go into effect next year.

The office said the capital gains tax could disadvantage retail investors at a time when the local stock market is greatly affected by rising volatility in the global financial market due to concerns over a U.S. economic slowdown and geopolitical risks.

"If the capital gains tax is implemented in the current environment, 14 million individual investors, most of them being middle-class, will suffer damage," it said.

The government and the ruling People Power Party have opposed the capital gains tax on concerns over its negative impact on the local stock market, while the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, which holds a controlling majority in the parliament, is divided over the tax scheme.

The main benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index tumbled nearly 9 percent, the lowest since November, on Monday on fears over a U.S. economic slowdown, but it rebounded over 3 percent the next day. (Yonhap)
By Kwak Yeon-soo

Han Seo-hee, who fled North Korea in October 2006 and settled in South Korea in March 2007, was reluctant at first when her father said they should leave this country. Her brother had already fled to South Korea with his girlfriend, whom their parents disapproved of.

I have secretly watched Korean dramas, but I never imagined myself living in South Korea. It seemed like an impossible escape. I was scared that we might be caught, repatriated to North Korea and publicly executed. But my father said If we stay, we could face harsh punishment. We must leave and believe in 1 percent of hope, she said in a recent interview with The Korea Times.

After making a dangerous journey through Mongolia, Han happily reunited with her brother and sister-in-law and she made a new life for herself as a TV personality in the South.

Having graduated from Pyongyang University of Music and Dance and being a former member of the Ministry of People's Securitys art propaganda squad, she gained fame by showing off her singing skills on Channel As Now On My Way to Meet You. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched a YouTube channel and most recently, published a book called Everyday Life in South Korea.

Hans first Korean-language essay published in July centers on her courageous escape from North Korea, real-life experiences of adjusting to life in South Korea including her days at the resettlement center and stories related to language differences.

Through my book, I want to improve awareness of North Korean human rights issues and promote North Korean defector integration in South Korea, she said.

Han said the most surprising things she realized after fleeing North Korea are dictatorship and human rights abuses

When I was in middle school, I was forced to watch public executions. I didnt know then that that was a form of child abuse. I didnt know about dictatorship or human rights abuses because I couldnt compare North Korea with the outside world, she said.

Han said the recent rise in high-ranking officials defecting to the South, including the latest case of North Koreas former No.2 diplomat in Cuba Ri Il-gyu, suggests possible near-term regime collapse.

Until the early 2000s, most defectors were from the lower class, like farmers, who fled the country because they were starving. From the mid-to-late-2000s, those who were relatively affluent and yearned for freedom started to defect to the South. I think this change suggests that regime collapse is around the corner, she said.

Though she enjoys living in South Korea, there are some things that she misses about North Korea: train rides and the nature.

Whenever I visited my hometown in Musan County, North Hamgyong Province, I rode a train that runs very slow. I remember looking out the window on my train ride. The nature was spectacular, she said.
Senior U.S. and Swedish diplomats expressed concern over North Korea's "worrying trends," including its growing military cooperation with Russia and the human rights situation in the reclusive state during their talks in Washington this week, the State Department said Tuesday.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Swedish State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Jan Knutsson led the two countries' bilateral talks on the Indo-Pacific in the U.S. capital on Monday.

"Deputy Secretary Campbell and State Secretary Knutsson noted with concern the PRC's continued support to the Russian defense industrial base, as well as worrying trends in the DPRK including growing military cooperation with Russia and the concerning human rights situation," the department said in a media note.

PRC and DPRK stand for the official names of China and North Korea, the People's Republic of China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

The two sides also discussed joint priorities to advance a "free and open" Indo-Pacific, including upholding international law, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, according to the department.

"They underscored the importance of further developing the critical ties between NATO allies and NATO's Indo-Pacific partners in addressing pressing security challenges," it said, referring to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

South Korea is part of NATO's four Indo-Pacific partners, which include Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Sweden has long played a role for security on the Korean Peninsula. It has a diplomatic mission in North Korea as well as a military presence in South Korea as part of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission, an impartial observer of the implementation of the armistice agreement that halted the Korean War.

In March, Sweden officially joined NATO as its 32nd member, as Washington has been striving to strengthen cooperation with its allies and partners amid Russia's war in Ukraine, China's growing assertiveness and North Korea's continued saber-rattling. (Yonhap)
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has attended a ceremony to dispatch young workers to flood-affected areas on the northern border, describing the restoration efforts as a "gigantic revolutionary construction campaign," state media said Wednesday.

The border city of Sinuiju and Uiju County in North Phyongan Province were recently struck by heavy rains. While North Korea has not released detailed information on the damage, South Korean media outlets have reported that the number of dead or missing could exceed 1,000.

The departure ceremony for the Paektusan Hero Youth Shock Brigade took place in Pyongyang on Tuesday, according to the Korean Central News Agency.

The North's leader said that such restoration work would give a complete facelift to the territory, expressing confidence that the youth members would be a vanguard unit for socialist construction.

He also mentioned that nearly 300,000 young people have volunteered for the recovery efforts in less than a week, emphasizing that such explosive volunteering enthusiasm is unparalleled in any other country.

Kim's attendance is seen as a tactic to prevent large-scale ideological defection during a national crisis and to demonstrate to the outside world the regime's ability to overcome disaster situations on its own.

Observers say Pyongyang is unlikely to accept Seoul's proposal for flood aid. Last Thursday, the South Korean government offered humanitarian aid to North Korea for the damage.

North Korea has not yet responded through the inter-Korean liaison communication channel.

North Korea has also declined Russia's offer of assistance with rain damage recovery, stating that it will seek Moscow's help when necessary.

The Paektusan Hero Youth Shock Brigade is a youth organization frequently deployed for large-scale civil engineering and construction projects in North Korea. They were involved in the completion of a power plant in 2016 and the construction of urban districts in Pyongyang. (Yonhap)
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said Wednesday the government will allow hospitals to extend the application period for trainee doctor programs this week to help them recruit more junior doctors.

Han made the remark after only 104 candidates, or 1.4 percent of trainee doctor positions available at 126 hospitals, had applied for the training programs that begin next month amid a prolonged standoff between the government and the medical community.

"Within this week, the government will extend the application period for trainee doctor programs for the latter half of this year," Han said during an interagency meeting on doctors' collective actions.

Thousands of trainee doctors have resigned since February in protest of the government's plan to expand the medical school quota and refused to apply for training programs until the end of last month.

Han vowed to keep communicating with trainee doctors to encourage them to return to hospitals and take measures to prevent them from having disadvantages from the medical community.

"We will take stern actions against acts that obstruct (trainee doctors') return to hospitals," Han said.

Later this month, Han said the government will announce detailed action plans for four health care reform tasks and an investment plan for the next five years to boost regional and essential medical sectors.

Separately, the health ministry said hospitals will receive applications for the upcoming training programs on Friday.

"It was very regrettable that the application rate had been low despite the government's efforts to promptly normalize the training system," Jung Yoon-soon, a senior health official, told reporters.

"We ask trainee doctors, who were willing to return but could not do so due to the short application period and external perceptions, to proactively apply during the extended application period," Jung added.

Of 5,701 resident doctors who resigned, 625 doctors have returned to hospitals so far, up from 258 a week ago, according to the ministry. (Yonhap)
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)
The top diplomats of Korea and the Philippines agreed Wednesday to redouble efforts toward a formal elevation of their bilateral relations to a "strategic partnership" within this year, a commitment shared by the two countries' leaders.

Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul reaffirmed the commitment to expanding ties during the talks with Philippine Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo, Cho's office said.

In March, President Yoon Suk Yeol and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. agreed in letters exchanged to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties, to push for an upgrade of the bilateral ties to a strategic partnership.

In Wednesday's talks, Cho said Korea and the Philippines are two "geopolitically important" countries in the Indo-Pacific, and called for the need to strengthen two-way strategic communication and cooperation to ensure regional peace and prosperity.

"The Philippines is also a vital partner in the context of Korea's Indo-Pacific strategy and the Korea-ASEAN solidarity Initiative, a landmark diplomatic initiative by Korea to strengthen its partnership with ASEAN," Cho said in the opening remarks.

"I'm committed to working with you to open a new chapter by establishing a strategic partnership between Korea and the Philippines in the coming months," Cho said.

Cho, in particular, noted that Korean-made frigates have been contributing to the Philippines' military power, apparently referring to the Jose Rizal-class frigate built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and expressed hope that more Korean companies will continue to be able to take part in Manila's efforts to bolster its defense capabilities.

The ministers also agreed to work together toward an early ratification of a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) signed in September last year, and for the pact to go into effect so that the peoples of the two countries can enjoy the benefits of the FTA.

Cho said Korea plans to provide support to the Philippines to help it cope with rice shortages, not only through aid in kind, but also in terms of infrastructure and agricultural modernization.

The Philippines was the first Southeast Asian nation to forge diplomatic relations with Korea. It sent the first and largest troop of 7,420 soldiers to Korea when the Korean War broke out in 1950. (Yonhap)
Govt to form consultative body to deal with issues about workers

By Jung Min-ho

Filipino caregivers appeared to be excited about their new opportunities in Korea. Applications have been pouring in to hire them. Yet several risk factors could derail the ambitious efforts to help counter Koreas fertility crisis with the pilot project, which may or may not turn into a regular program after six months.

One of the issues is the ambiguous scope of work for the 100 workers, who arrived in Korea on Tuesday before their work scheduled to begin on Sept. 3.

According to the project document, approved by both Korean and Filipino governments, their primary role is to take care of children and pregnant women and assist in carrying out daily activities such as cleaning, laundry and kitchen work related to caregiving.

The workers may also assist with incidental and light household management activities for cohabiting family members. Some human rights activists think a lack of clarity in the scope of their roles could expose them to the risk of exploitation.

The vague terms, for example, could cause dispute between the workers who consider work not directly related to child care as something extra and the service users who consider it as part of their obligation. The word light can also be interpreted differently.

Defining the range of housework is difficult, and different households have different needs. Thus, it is important to have an agreement on what to expect between the service providers and users to prevent friction, Cha Mi-young, a project manager at the Seoul Metropolitan Government, told The Korea Times. In collaboration with participating service firms, we will try our best to minimize that risk.

If serious disputes arise and the companies fail to resolve the issues, the Ministry of Employment and Labor as well as the city government will step in to mediate.

Park Jong-pil, the ministrys spokesperson, said the central and city governments plan to form a joint consultative body with the companies to manage such matters in the coming weeks.

The committee is also expected to play a chief role if any serious problem occurs, such as a crime or a human rights violation committed against or by the workers.

Another lingering issue is the high cost. When government officials came up with the policy idea of employing foreign workers to boost Koreas fertility rate  the worlds lowest level at 0.72  their plan was to use cheaper foreign labor to reduce the financial burden of Korean parents.

But the Minimum Wage Commission rejected their calls for lower wages for foreign workers last month, meaning that the Filipino caregivers would be paid 9,860 won ($7.12) hourly for their services this year and 10,030 won next year.

The monthly salary of 2,060,000 won for a full-time worker and social insurance fees required for using their services are considered too high for most Korean households, which, on average, earn 5.44 million won a month. Moreover, the participating companies are expected to raise their service charges once the project becomes a regular program, according to city officials.

This could raise skepticism of the scheme, from which both the rich can benefit.

Another potential area of concern is labor groups representing the rights of Korean workers, whose wages would be negatively affected by cheaper services provided by foreign laborers.

Kim Sa-gang, research fellow at Migrant and Human Rights Institute, a Busan-based NGO, is one of many critics who believe protests from Korean caregivers would be inevitable.

As shown in some industrial sectors, I think there will be disputes, she said. Labor groups might demand equal salaries for foreign workers (to protect their wage levels) or call for the government to stop (the project)  I think the latter is more likely.
The Navy is set to receive its first batch of MH-60R Seahawk maritime helicopters in December, officials said Wednesday, a move that could boost its anti-submarine capabilities against North Korean threats.

In 2020, the state arms procurement agency approved a 960 billion-won ($698 million) project to purchase 12 Seahawks from U.S. defense firm Lockheed Martin Corp. in efforts to strengthen the Navy's detection and attack capabilities against enemy vessels and submarines.

The 19.7-meter-long and 5.1-meter-high chopper with a maximum cruising speed of 270 kilometers per hour can handle multiple missions, including operations of warfare, search, rescue, and medical evacuation.

The multi-mission helicopter is designed to fly farther and remain longer in the air compared with the Navy's Lynx and Wildcat choppers in operation, with a maximum flying range of 834 kilometers and can operate for around four hours with a single departure.

Once deployed, the Seahawks are set to operate alongside P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft the Navy received in July. Dubbed the "submarine killer," the P-8A is capable of conducting an array of missions, including anti-submarine, anti-surface, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations. (Yonhap)
Veterans Minister Kang Jung-ai discussed ways to expand support for Ethiopian veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War with the country's defense minister, Aisha Mohammed, her office said Wednesday.

During their meeting in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, Kang expressed gratitude for the country's participation in the Korean War, and requested cooperation for expanding support for surviving Ethiopian veterans and scholarships for their descendants, according to the veterans ministry.

Mohammed called South Korea an "important country" for Ethiopia and concurred on the need to expand such cooperation, it said.

Kang also visited the Myungsung Christian Medical Center, which provides free medical care to veterans, and met those receiving treatment.

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. (Yonhap)
South Korea, the United States and Japan agreed Wednesday to accelerate discussions on establishing an alternative mechanism to monitor the implementation of U.N. Security Council (UNSC) sanctions against North Korea within this year, Seoul's foreign ministry said.

The agreement, reached during phone talks between the nuclear envoys of the three countries, came as a U.N. expert panel monitoring the enforcement of anti-North Korea sanctions has been disbanded due to Russia's veto of a resolution on its mandate renewal earlier this year.

"The three countries have agreed to speed up discussions on establishing and launching an alternative mechanism within this year to thoroughly monitor and report on the implementation of UNSC sanctions against North Korea," the ministry said in a release.

The meeting was attended by Cho Koo-rae, South Korea's Vice Foreign Minister for Strategy and Intelligence, Daniel Kritenbrink, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and Namazu Hiroyuki, Japan's assistant minister for Asian and Oceanian Affairs.

The three sides will continue to lead the thorough implementation of UNSC resolutions by the international community while strengthening cooperation among allied countries, according to the ministry.

The officials also shared their evaluations of recent developments in Pyongyang-Moscow relations and their illegal military cooperation, which seriously threatens international peace and stability beyond the Korean Peninsula.

The three representatives expressed grave concern over North Korea's continued provocations, including ballistic missile launches, and reaffirmed their strong commitment to achieving North Korea's denuclearization.

They further urged North Korea to immediately cease all provocations and destabilizing activities and return to dialogue for the peace, stability and denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. (Yonhap)
Police referred a man to the prosecution Wednesday on charges of stabbing a street cleaner to death in central Seoul last week.

The man, surnamed Lee, is accused of killing the woman in her 60s, who was working at the time, by stabbing her multiple times at an underpass near the Sungnyemun gate Friday.

Police arrested the suspect near Seoul Station about four hours later.

Lee reportedly told police he had committed the crime as he thought the victim had slighted him. They had known each other since May last year, police said.

The suspect, believed to be unemployed, resided at an inn near Seoul Station and sometimes slept on the streets, officials added.

On Sunday, the district court issued an arrest warrant for him, citing his risk of flight. (Yonhap)
The Korean customs agency said Wednesday it will intensify its crackdown on drug smuggling attempts from Mexico by setting up a special task force and strengthening security checks on incoming travelers.

The move came as direct flights linking the two nations resumed this week after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 and other issues, which is feared will increase cross-border attempts to smuggle drugs, according to the Korea Customs Service (KCS).

The special task force will be in charge of measures to prevent drug trafficking, such as information analysis and enhanced monitoring of suspected travelers.

The KCS will employ millimeter wave machines and other advanced devices to conduct security checks on all incoming travelers from Mexico.

Korea has tightened its border control in line with growing smuggling attempts after the pandemic and rising demand for narcotics here.

During the first half of this year, the number of drug trafficking attempts into Korea rose 11 percent on-year to come to 362 cases, data showed. (Yonhap)
Suga of K-pop supergroup BTS was questioned for allegedly driving an electric scooter under the influence, police said Wednesday.

"I feel heavy hearted and sorry for disappointing you," the rapper said on K-pop fan community platform Weverse.

"Although no one was injured and no property was damaged, I take full responsibility for my actions, which cannot be excused. I sincerely apologize to everyone."

He was booked and questioned at the Yongsan Police Station on charges of violating the Road Traffic Act.

"After drinking at a dinner meeting, I was returning on an electric kick scooter," Suga said. "Due to my careless assumption that the distance was short and my failure to recognize that operating an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol is prohibited, I violated traffic laws."

"I fell while parking the kick scooter in front of my house. And then there was a police officer nearby, I was given a breathalyzer test and subsequently had my license revoked and was fined," he explained.

The test revealed that Suga's blood alcohol concentration was at a level warranting license cancellation, which is 0.08 percent or higher, according to the police.

The artist was allowed to return home after completing the police investigation.

Suga has been serving as a social service agent, an alternative form of military service in Korea, since March. He is scheduled to be discharged in June next year. (Yonhap)
New military conscripts will be allowed to use their personal mobile phones on a limited basis at boot camps starting next month, the defense ministry said Wednesday, as part of efforts to help them better adapt to their mandatory military service.

Following a six-month pilot run that ended in December, all trainee soldiers will be allowed to use their mobile phones for one hour each day on weekends and public holidays starting September, according to the ministry.

Under the plan, soldiers hospitalized at military hospitals will also be allowed to use their mobile phones from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day, to help them stay connected with their units and family members and receive effective medical treatment, it added.

The move comes nearly four years after the government eased mobile phone use regulations for conscripts after work in July 2020, allowing them to use their personal devices from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, and from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

The ministry said it has no plan to further ease its regulations for conscripts, citing security concerns and side effects, such as soldiers engaging in illegal gambling or posting photos of their military units on social media.

"The military will maintain its current policy on mobile phone use after work so that troops can focus on their given tasks at a time that requires a powerful defense posture," the ministry said in a release.

All able-bodied South Korean men are required to serve at least 18 months in the military in a country facing constant security threats from North Korea. (Yonhap)
Prosecutors indicted former Supreme Court Justice Kwon Soon-il and MoneyToday Media Group Chairman Hong Seon-geun without physical detention Wednesday in connection with a high-profile property development scandal.

Kwon and Hong are among a group of people accused of being promised 5 billion won ($3.62 million) each from asset management firm Hwacheon Daeyu, which was seeking their influence as it pushed for the corruption-laden development project in Daejang-dong in the city of Seongnam, south of Seoul.

Kwon, who served as a Supreme Court justice from 2014-2020, was charged with illegally providing legal advice to Hwacheon Daeyu without registering as a lawyer while serving as an adviser for the firm between January and August 2021. In return, he received 150 million won.

By law, conducting business as a lawyer without registering is punishable by up to three years in prison or 20 million won in fines. The Korean Bar Association approved Kwon's registration as a lawyer in December 2022.

Specifically, prosecutors suspect Kwon of involvement in an administrative lawsuit related to the undergrounding of power lines in the Daejang-dong development project.

Kwon denied the charges against him, claiming that he did not know of the power grid issue when he started out as an adviser and that he had played the role as only an adviser for general company management affairs and not as a lawyer.

Hong was charged with borrowing 5 billion won from Kim Man-bae, the largest shareholder of Hwacheon Daeyu, and giving back only the principal without paying interest. Prosecutors determined that the unpaid interest totaling about 14.5 million won was graft.

Kwon and Hong were questioned last month in connection with the case. (Yonhap)
1,810 heat-related illness cases, 17 deaths reported amid record temperatures

By Jung Da-hyun

Korea is struggling with a surge in heat-related illnesses and livestock deaths due to an unusually prolonged heat wave that has followed the end of the monsoon season.

In response, municipal administrations across the country are implementing various measures to combat the effects of the heat wave. They have allocated 15 billion won (approximately $10.9 million) to help alleviate the impact, including distributing around 80,000 heat wave prevention items to field workers, vulnerable populations, and citizens.

Korea is currently experiencing a severe heat wave and tropical nights, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius in many areas. The intense heat has resulted in considerable damage and claimed 17 lives as of Monday.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, from May 20 to Monday, there have been 1,810 reported cases of heat-related illness, which marks an increase of 35 cases compared to last year. Of these, 17 people have died, including three fatalities reported just on Monday.

Elderly people are particularly vulnerable, with 32.5 percent, or 589 cases, of heat illnesses affecting those aged 65 or older.

Among those affected, manual laborers make up the largest group at 20.2 percent, followed by individuals with unknown occupations at 18.6 percent. Unemployed individuals, excluding the homeless, account for 14.5 percent, while skilled workers in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries represent 9.7 percent.

Outdoor workplaces are the most common sites for heat-related illnesses, accounting for 28.8 percent of cases, followed by farmland which represents 16 percent and roadsides which account for 9.7 percent.

The ongoing heat wave is also causing substantial property damage, particularly in the agricultural sector.

From June 11 to Monday, approximately 350,000 livestock have died, including 27,000 pigs and 327,000 poultry. Additionally, around 20,000 farmed animals have been impacted.

The Ministry of Interior and Safety has escalated its response to the ongoing heat wave by activating the first phase of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters and raising the heat wave crisis warning from "alert" to "serious" as of July 31.

Since the headquarters began operations, 4,227 personnel have been on emergency duty across 17 metropolitan and provincial governments, focusing on inspecting heat shelters and protecting vulnerable populations. Additionally, over 55,000 heat shelters are currently operating nationwide.

Anticipating the heat wave, the interior ministry allocated 15 billion won for early support measures in April, allowing local governments to prepare proactively. This funding represents a 25 percent increase from last year.

Nationwide response

Local governments are implementing various initiatives to tackle the heat wave.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government has set up a dedicated disaster and safety headquarters to manage the heat wave.

The city government said, Tuesday, that it plans to enhance the operation of vehicles that reduce temperatures by spraying water on major roads and other areas of the capital, mitigating the urban heat island effect.

Over 220 water-spraying vehicles will be deployed across 25 districts. These vehicles will spray cool water five to six times daily between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., focusing on major roads.

Additionally, the city will maximize the operation of cooling roads during the heat wave. These systems, which use discarded underground water from subway stations, will be activated up to five times daily during special heat wave warnings. If sufficient, extra underground water will be utilized. The cooling roads can lower ground temperatures by seven to nine degrees Celsius during midsummer.

Some heat shelters in Seoul have extended their operating hours until 9 p.m. on weekdays and are also opening on weekends and holidays to accommodate more citizens during the heat wave.

The city will also intensify efforts to safeguard vulnerable older residents, conducting regular safety checks by phone and in-person visits if calls go unanswered.

Special attention is being given to the elderly residents of the capital, with increased management personnel assigned to areas with high concentrations of homeless people and low-rent housing units. These areas will see enhanced counseling services and patrols to monitor the health and safety of at-risk individuals.

The southeastern city of Daegu, famous for soaring summer temperatures, deployed 5,312 helpers to assist seniors citizens who are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses. The city has also expanded its cooling road system, similar to Seoul's, covering 10 sections and using 418 tons of water at a time.

In Changnyeong, South Gyeongsang Province, drones equipped with loudspeakers are flown once or twice a week to advise outdoor workers to avoid strenuous activities and follow the three safety rules  water, shade and rest.

North Jeolla Province introduced so-called "conscientious refrigerators" in six areas with a large mobile population to offer free water to pedestrians, helping them cope with the heat.

Andong in North Gyeongsang Province provides parasol rental services near popular tourist sites like Hahoe Village and Dosan Seowon, while Guri in Gyeonggi Province has equipped government offices, including city hall, with 1,500 parasols available for public use.

The interior ministry is actively identifying and sharing effective heat wave response strategies across the nation to promote best practices.

It has also designated May 20 to Sept. 30 as the heat wave countermeasure period and is monitoring damage in real-time, including on weekends and holidays, to manage the record-breaking heat wave effectively.
Experts call for year-long heat wave response system to protect most vulnerable against climate crisis

By Lee Hae-rin

Hundreds of older adults wearing hats and holding parasols to shield themselves from the scorching sun, queued up near Tapgol Park at the heart of Seoul in Jongno District, Wednesday, to receive free meals from soup kitchens around the neighborhood.

The free meals start at 11:30 a.m., but the line was already over 100 meters long as of 11 a.m.

An 81-year-old woman, who wished to be identified only by her surname Kim, said she came from eastern Gangdong District by subway with a free senior subway ticket around 7 a.m.

This is the hottest summer I have ever experienced in my life. Really, its way too hot. There must be several people suffering heatstroke while waiting in line here (after staying in the sun too long), she said, fanning herself with a piece of paper.

Some of them marked their place in line with their bags and umbrellas and ducked into the shade of trees nearby to hide from the heat, but as meal time approached, they went back and forth, worried about missing their turn.

Lee, 75, who was sitting on a piece of discarded cardboard next to Kim, said she braves the heat wave almost every day because she has nowhere to go.

Even if its not, this is one of the few places that offers free food. So we cant help it, she said. Some of us have grown familiar to each other over time, because we come here so often.

Although they tried fanning themselves to cool down and stood under umbrellas or trees along the street to cover up from the sun, their faces and necks were drenched with sweat. Hundreds of other people around Kim and Lee's age stood around the park for an hour to as long as six hours under the sun until they received lunch boxes and bottled water from soup kitchens, operated by religious groups.

The daytime temperature hit a high of 33 degrees Celsius, Wednesday.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agencys most recent report on the operation of the heat wave monitoring system, a total of 1,810 people were reported to have been hospitalized for heat-related illnesses between May 20 and Monday, one-third of whom were aged over 65.

For a 70-year-old surnamed Jeong, who has been homeless around Seoul Station for nearly a decade, the scorching heat of this summer is also unbearable.

The heat wave this summer is killing us all (homeless). Summer has always been a tough time, but it has never been as bad as this year, he said, sitting around discarded boxes and newspapers, wearing a thick winter jacket that he owns, inside the stations underground pass.

Experts stressed the risk of heat-related illnesses in older adults and called for countermeasures to protect society's most vulnerable from the climate crisis.

In general, people aged 65 or over are vulnerable to thermal diseases, because their abilities to feel thirst and control body temperature have deteriorated  For them, standing outside for hours could be very dangerous, said Yoo Byung-wook, a professor of family medicine at Soonchunhyang University.

When they already feel thirsty, dehydration progresses and it is easy to be exposed to heat-related illnesses caused by dehydration."

Kang Jae-heon, a family medicine professor at Gangbuk Samsung Hospital, echoed Yoos view, encouraging older people to refrain from outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Heat waves should now be considered a natural disaster in Korea, and not only local governments but also national budgets and departments in charge should be prepared in the future, Yoo said.

Not only once in the summer, but throughout the whole year, it should be classified as a natural disaster such as a flood or an earthquake, and there should be a budget, personnel and disaster response manuals for countermeasures, especially for older people who are more vulnerable to the heat, Yoo said.
Yoon expected to address economy-related issues

By Kwak Yeon-soo

President Yoon Suk Yeol is expected to confront several significant challenges, including addressing the market rout and implementing the promised reforms, when he returns from vacation.

During his vacation, which began on Monday, Yoon has been visiting various regional areas outside Seoul to boost the local economy. He toured a traditional market in Tongyeong, South Gyeongsang Province, and met with military personnel. The precise length of his vacation is flexible, the presidential office said.

Presidential aides said Yoon has been using the time to rest and explore ideas that can help him tighten his grip on state affairs.

The most pressing concern awaiting the president upon his return is the state of the economy, which is significantly impacting public livelihoods.

On Monday, South Koreas benchmark KOSPI plunged 8.8 percent, marking its worst loss since the 2008 global financial crisis. This drop was driven by concerns over a potential U.S. economic downturn and increased tensions in the Middle East. As a result, trading curbs were activated for the first time in four years.

While on vacation, Yoon called for close and proactive coordination among relevant institutions and instructed officials to implement measures swiftly.

We urge the National Assembly to discuss abolishing the financial investment income tax as soon as possible as the tax could further depress the stock market, the presidential office said, Wednesday.

The financial investment income tax imposes a 20 percent charge on the total income derived from financial products, including stocks, bonds, funds, and derivatives, exceeding 50 million won ($36,335), with a higher rate of 25 percent applied to earnings surpassing 300 million won. The plan won bipartisan support in parliament in 2020, but was postponed until January next year due to strong objections from retail investors.

In the days and months ahead, Yoon will seek to complete reforms in education, labor, pension and healthcare and tackle the countrys low birthrate.

Yoon intends to hold a briefing on the state of the nation by the end of August. Although the exact topics have not been determined, the briefing will likely address the administration's major policy priorities, reform strategies, and the demographic challenges facing the country.

The presidents to-do list also includes vetoing four broadcasting bills and reinstating the office of the first lady for Kim Keon Hee.

Yoon is widely anticipated to support the Cabinets motion for parliamentary reconsideration of four bills designed to alter the governance structure of public broadcasters. If he endorses the motion, the bills will be returned to the Assembly for a revote.

The first lady made a surprise visit to a traditional market in Busan, Tuesday, to support the local economy.

Pollack roe is a representative food of Busan. Commercializing it by creating a brand character and developing related tourism products is a great way of revitalizing local economy, Kim said.

On Aug. 15, South Korea will celebrate National Liberation Day and Yoon is scheduled to grant special presidential pardons to politicians and business executives convicted of livelihood-related crimes. The pardons will be reviewed by a panel at the Ministry of Justice on Thursday and sent to a Cabinet meeting for deliberation next Tuesday before they are approved by Yoon.

Also gaining attention is Yoons speech on that day, which will showcase the presidents thoughts on state affairs, North Korea issues and Seoul-Tokyo relations.

Further complicating matters is a call from the opposition requesting a one-on-one meeting.

We request President Yoon to meet with the opposition leader to deal with the economic crisis and discuss overcoming the political division together, Rep. Park Chan-dae, floor leader and acting chairman of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea.

The remark came a day after Rep. Lee Jae-myung, former leader of DPK, expressed his wish to meet Yoon again. The two held first one-on-one meeting on April 29.

The overall economy is currently in a dire state. I would like to meet and talk to Yoon about how we can overcome this situation and resolve parliament stalemate, Lee said.
By Jeon Su-mi

President Yoon Suk Yeol's reckless behavior continues unabated. Upon taking office, President Yoon insulted independence activists by labeling them communists, disregarded the release of contaminated water from Fukushima that affects the lives of the people and pre-emptively agreed with Japan to exclude the term "forced labor" in the context of registering the Sado Mine as a World Heritage Site. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs' claim that there was no discussion about the term "forced" is deceitful to the public. This is indeed the reason for a tragedy of great lamentation.

At the time, Korean workers at the Sado Mine were literally "forcibly mobilized" and subjected to forced labor. By all means, it was forced labor. The administrative power of the Japanese Governor-General's office operated in a violent manner. When the labor officer at the county office pressured the labor officer at the district office to gather workers, police conducted background checks, including ideological investigations, and then sent them to the coal mines. Koreans under colonial rule had no choice.

According to the Korea-Japanese Citizens Joint Investigation Report "Sado Mine and Forced Labor of Koreans," Kim Su-hyung (born in 1928, Cheongju), it is stated that "The local office clerk and the National Defense Corps officer came and mobilized those from large families first, saying that they had to go for conscription first," resulting in 1,519 people, including 646 people in 1940, being taken to the mines.

Koreans were beaten so severely to a degree that it was unbearable to witness, and many attempted to escape. Again, according to the Dec. 15, 1941 issue of the Karafuto (now South Sakhalin) Police Bulletin, four Koreans  Ham Yeon-tae, Jo Ok-dong , Yoon Seong-myeong and Lee Hwa-sil  who had escaped from the Mitsubishi Sado Mine in November 1941 were being sought.

The working conditions were extremely poor. Via the March 1940 issued "Special Higher Police Report" published by the Japanese Ministry of Home Affairs' Police Bureau, it came to light that Koreans, who had just arrived at the mines after being mobilized from Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province, went on strike on Feb. 17, demanding better treatment. Dangerous tunnel work was mostly carried out by Koreans. According to a 1943 document titled "Regarding Peninsula Labor Management" produced by the Sado Mine, among the 646 individuals responsible for dangerous tunnel work as of May that year, 481 (74.5 percent) were Koreans.

Mitsubishi Mining did not pay all wages in cash; instead, it required workers to enroll in savings, insurance and other schemes for various reasons. Most victims were unable to receive this money while returning to their hometowns after Japan's defeat. As a result, the unpaid wages amounting to 231,059.59 yen, left by 1,140 Koreans, were incorporated into the Japanese treasury after a 10-year deposit period had expired.

If the South Korean government is truly working for the Korean people, it must define it as forced labor and demand the same from our counterpart, Japan. If we accept that Koreans worked under those unbearable conditions at the Sado Mine while simply stating that all history is still remembered and then conclude without further action, what is the purpose of the nation's existence?

We cannot simply ignore this reality for the benefit of improving Korea-Japan relations, and the 2015 statement that mobilization and labor were carried out against the will of the Koreans, with many being forcibly taken and subjected to harsh conditions, must be explicitly acknowledged.

The Yoon Suk Yeol administration is fundamentally abandoning the role of the Korean government. This approach by the Yoon administration toward Japan is unsustainable and will inevitably be overturned by the next administration. Furthermore, it will even cause greater harm to the nation. This is why the Yoon administration is considered to be out of touch with reality.

Jeon Su-mi (sumijeon@ssu.ac.kr), an attorney, is a professor at the Soongsil Institute for Peace and Unification. She was a member of the Presidential Committee on Northern Economic Cooperation. Her areas of specialty include South Korean politics and foreign policy and North Korean politics and human rights.
By Choo Jae-woo

Now that the public hoopla over North Korea's re-alignment with Russia appears to have faded, it is appropriate to consider the consequences with some objectivity. The June 19 summit in Pyongyang between Kim Jong Un of North Korea and Russian President Vladimir Putin restored the alliance relationship. It supposedly has aroused some sense of discomfort on Chinas part according to many observers. This analysis reflects a "zero-sum" perspective on the fluctuations in the trilateral relationships among North Korea, China and Russia. The logic is that as one axis grows closer, the other becomes more distant. The argument is that the North Korea-Russia alliance inevitably has a negative impact on China's influence and monopoly over North Korea. The issue lies in interpreting these points through a perspective that might not fully grasp the nature or historical context of these alliances.

Pundits of North Korean affairs base their claims on many ominous developments in the bilateral relations. Chinas ambassador to Pyongynag, for instance, was found to be not in attendance at the military parade on July 27, which celebrated North Koreas victory concerning the Korean War. Those ambassadors from the so-called friendly nations like Russia, Vietnam, Mongolia and Nicaragua were all spotted. Allegedly, Kim has recently instructed his diplomats in China not to be too concerned with possible conflicts with China in pursuit of their mission. Recently, it has been confirmed that the monument commemorating the footprints of Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which was installed in 2018 in Dalian, Liaoning Province, China, has been removed. Furthermore, there are reports that Chinese authorities have repeatedly demanded North Korea to repatriate all North Korean workers dispatched to China. It was only offset by NK Dailys July 30 report that about 500 North Korean laborers await deployment to China.

However, historical analysis of the bilateral and trilateral relationships often treats these interactions as trivial and marginal for the following reasons. First, the relations between North Korea, China, and Russia are rooted in socialist and post-socialist state relationships. Their alliances are characterized by mutual distrust, with relations fluctuating based on practical benefits. The alliance between China and the Soviet Union was established in 1950 and dissolved after 1960. Similarly, the North Korea-China and North Korea-Russia alliances formed in 1961 have faced intrinsic structural issues that make trust-building challenging. There were no stationed troops or joint military exercises, and arms transactions ceased after the early 1990s. The issue of automatic intervention assumes military "support" of the other if one contracting party is attacked, unlike the formal processes seen in the South Korea-U.S. and U.S.-Japan alliances.

Second, there is a problem of distrust among North Korea, China and Russia. North Korea distrusts not only China but also Russia, stemming from events like the Soviet Union's failure to honor promises during the Korean War. Support requests for consideration in case America attacks the North during the 1968 Pueblo incident were refused by Moscow. Then the Soviet leader Brezhnev countered Kim Il-sung with a set of principles that limited the alliance responsibilities to the preservation of peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula, nullifying its military support to the Norths attack of the South and Koreas unification by force. Pyongyang perceived the 1971 detente, coupled with the Souths fervent opposition to Park Chung-hees authoritarian ruling as a golden opportunity to realize unification by force and wanted to confine the unification war within Korea by suggesting to Moscow to swap the Sino-North Korea and Soviet-North Korea alliance with the ROK-U.S. alliance and ROK-Japan normalization treaty, only for all to be rejected by Brezhnev. Thus, when North Korea planned its southern invasion in 1975, it only consulted China rather than the Soviet Union.

Finally, in the 76-year history of North-Russia relations, there has been no record of the highest Russian leaders visiting North Korea, except for Putin's visits in 2000 and 2024. This indicates that North Korea holds little strategic significance for Russia. The restoration of the North Korea-Russia alliance is, therefore, quite fortuitous for China. Starting in January of last year, high-level meetings conducted monthly faced American pressure, making the U.S. relationship a top priority for China. China, having to show at least minimal "goodwill" towards North Korean sanctions, cast an abstention vote in the U.N. North Korean Sanctions Committees expert panels conclusion vote. With Russia's support for economic aid to North Korea, China has a reason to be pleased.

Since March last year, China and Russia have shifted their approach to resolving North Korean denuclearization. Last year they abandoned the dual suspension policy from 2017 and the dual-track policy in May this year. Instead, they have called for respect for North Korea's "legitimate security concerns" and urged action from the U.S., the primary party involved. The discussion of "intermediate stages" and arms control negotiations in the U.S. is not unrelated. This situation calls for strengthening the logic behind our own denuclearization strategy to make it more convincing.

Given their long history of distrust and diplomatic maneuverability by strategic interests, the effects of Russo-North Korean realignment on Sino-North Korean relations may surface in October when the latter will celebrate the 75th anniversary of normalization of the relationship. Till then, three variables may factor in the scale and level of the event. One is Kims health condition. It has deteriorated to the extent that he is allegedly looking for new medication, according to Koreas National Intelligence Service. Another is whether Beijing and Pyongyang will celebrate the occasion together. If so, at what level? Will Xi Jinping visit Pyongyang like his predecessor did on the 55th anniversary? Will Kim be willing to visit Beijing for the occasion? The other is the Ukraine War. Will the end of the war undermine the Russo-North Korean relations and compell the North to turn towards China again? What if Beijing and Pyongyang decide to bypass the 75th anniversary and Xi is to visit Korea to attend APEC next year? It will isolate the North once again, like it was iolated in 2014-15. Chinas discomfort will surface past October.

Choo Jae-woo is a professor at Kyung Hee University.
Pilot program should serve as model

Amid Korea's declining birthrate and aging population, 100 caregivers from the Philippines arrived in Seoul for a six-month pilot program to commence next month. If the program proves successful, the government plans to expand the initiative to 1,200 caregivers next year. The progress and feedback from this initial group will be crucial, as policymakers aim to scale up the program, potentially involving foreign students already residing in the country.

Before arriving in Korea, the selected caregivers underwent 780 hours of training and passed drug screenings and criminal background checks. They are between 24 and 38 years old and hold a care certificate from the Philippines governments Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). They also passed a basic Korean language test, as required by the Korean government. Given that English is one of their primary languages, their proficiency in that language is highly anticipated by Korean households, known for their educational enthusiasm. The service is open to households in Seoul with children aged 12 or younger and for expecting parents.

Covered by the minimum wage and eligible for four types of insurance in Korea, these caregivers can earn 2.38 million won ($1,727) a month if employed for eight hours a day. This amount is about half the median income of a 30-something Korean household, which is 5.09 million won. If they work four hours a day, their monthly pay would be 1.19 million won. Despite initial concerns about affordability, the Seoul city government and the labor ministry said Wednesday that a total of 751 households in Seoul have applied. However, caregivers will live in shared housing and are restricted to specific household tasks, which has led to the perception that their wages in Korea are higher than those in Hong Kong or Singapore.

As a member of the International Labor Organization, Korea is required to pay the same minimum wage to both domestic and foreign workers. However, different countries have varying requirements for caregivers, so direct wage comparisons may not be entirely persuasive. Faced with a challenging economic situation, a tripartite social apparatus attempted to explore the possibility of applying a different minimum wage for small businesses, such as those run by self-employed individuals, like restaurants. This effort, however, was unsuccessful. Given that only a small portion of households will benefit from the foreign caregiver program, there may be a need for the government, businesses and the labor sector to consider more flexible social options, including varying the application of the minimum wage.

Korea is transitioning to an aging society as rapidly as its economic growth once did. The country's total fertility rate has plummeted to 0.72 this year, reflecting a significant drop in birthrate. Despite this, more women are choosing to stay in the workforce. Consequently, the shortage of caregiving labor, which was 190,000 in 2022, is projected to soar to between 610,000 and 1.55 million by 2042, according to figures from the Bank of Korea. Currently, only 30 percent of this shortage is being addressed.

When the caregivers begin work in September, there could be potential issues regarding the scope of household tasks they are allowed to perform. Korean applications for the program outline specific duties that caregivers cannot undertake, such as cooking and waste management, and unrelated to child care. However, the ambiguity in these guidelines may lead to challenges, as many foreign workers might feel compelled to comply with unclear or potentially unreasonable requests from employers. The extent of the tasks they can perform may also vary depending on the number of hours they work. Korean labor groups have emphasized the need for foreign caregivers to have access to support and mechanisms for resolving any workplace issues they may encounter.

It is essential for policymakers, households and caregivers to collaborate over the next six months to develop reasonable solutions that work for everyone involved.




Hyundai Motor, Korea's leading automotive company, plans to invest $28 million in Thailand to establish a production facility for electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries, the country's Board of Investment (BOI) said Wednesday.

In a release sent to Yonhap News Agency, the BOI said it approved the investment applications by Hyundai Mobility Manufacturing, the local unit of the Korean auto giant, to begin local assembly of EVs and batteries starting in 2026.

According to the BOI, Hyundai plans to establish an assembly plant in Samut Prakan Province, near Bangkok. The facility will also assemble an equal amount of EV batteries, the board said.

"Hyundai's entry in Thailand's EV sector is a very positive development, confirming the attractiveness of Thailand as both a manufacturing base and an important market," said Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary general of the BOI.

The Thai government has declared a goal to replace 30 percent of domestically produced vehicles with electric cars by 2030. It has also introduced an electric car purchase subsidy scheme for companies with local production plants. (Yonhap)
Products, services powered by new model to roll out in 2nd half

By Nam Hyun-woo

LG Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research announced, Wednesday, the release of its latest AI model, EXAONE 3.0, as an open-source resource for research purposes. This marks the first time a Korean company has launched an open-source AI system, enabling developers to use the model without needing to obtain permission.

The company also introduced the open beta version of ChatEXAONE, an enterprise AI agent based on EXAONE 3.0, for LG Group employees. This tool is designed to assist them with their daily work tasks.

According to the group, LG AI Research has published a technical report detailing the model training methods and performance evaluation results of EXAONE 3.0. The latest model demonstrates superior performance and cost-efficiency compared to its predecessors, EXAONE 1.0, released in December 2021, and EXAONE 2.0, released in July 2023.

Compared to EXAONE 2.0, EXAONE 3.0 required 56 percent less processing time for inference, 35 percent less memory usage and 72 percent lower operating costs.

The technical report showed that EXAONE 3.0 ranked top in 13 benchmark scores, including real-world use cases, coding and math, demonstrating its global competitiveness when compared to other global open-source AI models of a similar size, such as Meta's Llama 3.1 and Google's Gemma 2.

As a bilingual model capable of learning and understanding both Korean and English, EXAONE 3.0 has also received high praise for its performance in Korean.

To enhance the performance of EXAONE 3.0, LG AI Research utilized over 60 million data sets from patents, software code, mathematics, chemistry, and other specialized fields for training. The company plans for EXAONE to learn from more than 100 million data sets in fields such as law, biology, medicine, education, and various languages by the end of the year.

In the second half of the year, LG AI Research plans to collaborate with LG affiliates to integrate EXAONE 3.0 into various products and services. Depending on its intended use, EXAONE will be available in different model sizes, ranging from an ultra-lightweight version for on-device AI services to a high-performance model for specialized applications.

Along with EXAONE 3.0, LG announced the launch of the open beta service for ChatEXAONE, which is available to LG Group employees.

Based on EXAONE 3.0, ChatEXAONE provides a variety of functions to enhance work productivity, including real-time web-based Q&A, document and image-based Q&A, coding support and database management.

LG AI Research will offer an open beta service through the end of the year, with regular updates based on employee feedback and suggestions. The official service and mobile app will be rolled out according to the readiness of each LG affiliate.

As it is important to create AI that can be used in real-world industries, we plan to strengthen partnerships between LG affiliates and other companies and institutions with EXAONE, LG AI Research President Bae Kyung-hoon said.

In particular, we plan to release the lightweight model as open-source, allowing research institutes to access and utilize our generative AI model, thereby contributing to the AI research ecosystem.
Hamas on Tuesday named Yahya Sinwar, the man Israel says masterminded the Oct. 7 attack that sparked the Gaza war, as its new political chief following last week's killing of his predecessor Ismail Haniyeh.

The announcement came with the Middle East on edge as it awaited Iran's retaliation over the killing of Haniyeh in Tehran.

Iran blames Haniyeh's death on Israel and has vowed to avenge him, while Hamas's Lebanese ally Hezbollah has also pledged to retaliate for his killing and that of its military commander Fuad Shukr in an Israeli strike in Beirut hours earlier.

Sinwar, who has been Hamas's leader in Gaza since 2017  with Haniyeh living in Qatar  has not been seen since the Oct. 7 attack.

A senior Hamas official told AFP that the selection of Sinwar sent a message that the militant group "continues its path of resistance."

Jibril Rajoub, secretary of the Central Committee of the rival Fatah movement that runs the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank, said the decision was "logical and expected."

Hezbollah congratulated Sinwar and said the appointment affirms "the enemy... has failed to achieve its objectives" by killing Hamas leaders and officials.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said Sinwar's appointment was "yet another compelling reason to swiftly eliminate him and wipe this vile organization off the face of the earth."

Analysts believe Sinwar has been more reluctant than Haniyeh to agree to a ceasefire deal.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters on Tuesday that it was up to Sinwar to help achieve a ceasefire as he "has been and remains the primary decider."

Meanwhile, in a televised address to mark one week since Shukr's death, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said his group and Tehran were "obliged to respond" to the deaths of Haniyeh and Shukr.

Nasrallah said Hezbollah would retaliate "alone or in the context of a unified response from all the axis" of Iran-backed groups in the region, "whatever the consequences."

Minutes before his speech, Israeli jets flew low over the Lebanese capital, breaking the sound barrier in a show of force.

'Around the clock'

With the region on edge, the United States said it was working "around the clock" to avert an all-out war.

It has sent extra warships and fighter jets to the region in support of Israel, and President Joe Biden called Jordan's King Abdullah II, whose country helped down Iranian drones and missiles in an attack on Israel in April.

This was followed by a call with Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and another with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, whose countries have been the key intermediaries seeking a ceasefire in the 10-month Gaza war.

Blinken also called top officials in Qatar and Egypt.

"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.

That message was communicated "directly" to Iran and Israel, he told reporters later on Tuesday.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian hit out on Monday at what he called the "criminal acts" of Israel "against the oppressed and defenceless people of Gaza," as well as for Haniyeh's killing.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran is in no way seeking to expand the scope of war and crisis in the region, but this regime will definitely receive the response for its crimes and arrogance," Pezeshkian said, according to the official news agency IRNA.

Israel has not commented on Haniyeh's killing but confirmed it had carried out the strike on Shukr.

It held the Hezbollah commander responsible for a rocket attack in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights that killed 12 children, calling him the "right-hand man" of Nasrallah.

'Playing with fire'

Hezbollah has traded near-daily cross-border fire with Israeli troops throughout the Gaza war.

The group said Tuesday that six of its fighters were killed in Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon and that it had launched "dozens of Katyusha rockets" at a military base in the Golan Heights in retaliation.

Regional councils in northern Israel urged residents to stay close to shelters after a barrage of rockets.

Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, on a visit to Cairo, acknowledged that there was "a possibility of a war between us and Israel... We can't deny that."

A European diplomat in Tel Aviv said "a coordinated response" against Israel from Iran and its proxies was expected.

"That doesn't mean there will be a simultaneous response from all fronts," he added, declining to be identified as he was not authorized to speak on the issue.

"They have to stop playing with fire, because the risk of flare-ups is higher than at any time since Oct. 7," he said.

Numerous airlines have suspended flights to Lebanon or limited them to daylight hours.

Lebanese national carrier Middle East Airlines has added extra flights for people wanting to leave or return, a company source said.

'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."

The Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, triggered by the Palestinian group's unprecedented Oct. 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 1,198 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

Palestinian militants seized 251 hostages, 111 of whom are still held in Gaza, including 39 the Israeli military says are dead.

Israel's retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has killed at least 39,653 people, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry, which does not give details of civilian and militant deaths.

In the occupied West Bank, Palestinian officials said Israeli forces killed 12 people in three separate raids on Tuesday. (AFP)
The British government has called on Elon Musk to act responsibly after the tech billionaire used his social media platform X to unleash a barrage of posts that officials say risk inflaming the violent unrest gripping the country.

Justice Minister Heidi Alexander made the comments Tuesday morning after Musk posted a comment saying that Civil war is inevitable in the U.K. Musk later doubled down, highlighting complaints that the British criminal justice system treats Muslims more leniently than far-right activists and comparing Britains crackdown on social media users to the Soviet Union.

Use of language such as a civil war is in no way acceptable, Alexander told Times Radio. 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.

Britain has been shaken by violence for more than a week, as police clashed with crowds spouting anti-immigrant and Islamophobic slogans in cities and towns from Northern Ireland to the south coast of England. The unrest began after right-wing activists used social media to spread misinformation about a knife attack that killed three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event on July 29.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has described the riots as far-right thuggery, said after an emergency meeting with law enforcement officials and government ministers Tuesday that perpetrators will swiftly be punished.

More than 400 people have been arrested due to violence in more than two dozen towns and cities and about 100 have been charged, after Starmer announced plans to ramp up the criminal justice system.

An 18-year-old man who trashed police cars in Bolton, in northern England, on Sunday was believed to be the first person sentenced in the unrest. James Nelson got a two-month prison term Tuesday after pleading guilty in Manchester Magistrates Court to criminal damage, police 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, Starmer said.

Starmer deflected questions from reporters about Musk, saying his focus was on keeping communities safe.

The government is calling on social media companies, such as Musks X, formerly known as Twitter, to do more to combat the spread of misleading and inflammatory information online.

Alexander said Tuesday that the government would look at strengthening the existing Online Safety Act, which was approved last year and wont be fully implemented until 2025.

Weve been working with the social media companies, and some of the action that theyve taken already with the automatic removal of some false information is to be welcomed, Alexander told the BBC. But there is undoubtedly more that the social media companies could and should be doing.

That type of rhetoric may be part of what sparked Musks attack on the government. Musk has taken a more combative approach to his critics than was the norm in Silicon Valley technology firms, said Alex Krasodomski, who studies the intersection between technology and politics at Chatham House, a London-based think tank.

He has sparred with U.K. and EU policymakers in the past when they have questioned his approaches to content moderation on the platform, Krasodomski said.

X didnt respond to an email seeking comment. It rarely responds to media requests.

Musk just kept wading into the debate about the violence in Britain.

After Starmer posted a comment on X saying that the government will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities, Musk responded with the question, Shouldnt you be concerned about attacks on (asterisk)all(asterisk) communities?

Musk attached a similar comment to a video that said it showed a Muslim patrol attacking a pub in Birmingham, highlighting the original post for his 193 million followers.

Such comments are vintage Musk, who has a history of making provocative statements, said Stephanie Alice Baker, a sociologist at City University of London who has studied online discourse. Musk frequently comments on geopolitical issues and his fans come to his defense when he is criticized, Baker said.

Earlier this year, he clashed with a Brazilian supreme court justice over free speech, far-right accounts and purported misinformation on X. He also accused Venezuelas socialist president, Nicolas Maduro, of major election fraud after last weeks disputed election.

Those comments are closely watched by a group of people attracted by his success in business, Baker said.

Musks following represents the cult of the entrepreneur  she said. By questioning convention, they are depicted as gifted visionaries, who can predict the future and bring it into being. For his fans and followers, Musks impulsive comments are perceived as part of his genius. (AP)
Thousands of riot police stood ready Wednesday as Britain remained on alert for disturbances during far-right protests across the country.

Nightly riots, during which mosques and migrant targets have been attacked, erupted after three children were murdered on July 29.

Police said they were investigating several racially-motivated hate crimes in Belfast on Tuesday, including an attack on a young boy that left him with minor facial injuries.

And far-right groups plan demonstrations Wednesday in more than 30 locations, with immigration lawyers and buildings hosting asylum seekers primary targets, according to posts on messaging app Telegram leaked to the British media.

The government has said 6,000 specialist police are on standby to deal with the disorder, which has seen more than 425 people arrested and at least 120 charged, according to latest police figures.

The violence broke out after girls aged nine, seven and six were killed and five more children critically injured during a knife attack at a Taylor Swift dance class in Southport, north west England.

False rumours initially spread on social media saying the attacker was a Muslim asylum seeker. The suspect was later identified as 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, born in Wales. UK media reported that his parents are from Rwanda.

Despite the police statement, initial disturbances in Southport centred around a mosque, and widespread violence has rocked England and Northern Ireland since.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer late Tuesday warned anyone involved would face "the full force of the law", including those inciting violence online.

Starmer, a former chief state prosecutor, said he expected "substantive sentencing before the end of this week" for the rioters.

"That should send a very powerful message to anybody involved, either directly or online," he added in televised comments.

The unrest, Britain's worst since the 2011 London riots, has led a number of countries to warn citizens about travelling in Britain. (AFP)
tripleS is known as one of the biggest (both in terms of popularity and in size) girl groups of the fifth generation. With 24 members, they have broken a new record by having an international line-up with talented girls. Recently, Korean netizens have been digging into the lives of the members and discovered something interesting; not only are they talented, but five members come from extremely impressive educational backgrounds!

Keep on reading to discover who they are.

1. Kim Yooyeon

Known as the "goddess of Ewha," Kim Yooyeon is currently enrolled in Ewha Womans University. She majors in Science Education.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: THIS tripleS Member Revealed To Have Been In Source Music's NewJeans Debut Team

During her appearance on "The Manager," Kim Yooyeon revealed that her parents were against her dreams of becoming an idol. To be able to chase her dreams of becoming an idol while also appeasing her parents, Kim Yooyeon applied for university and is managing both her schooling with her idol activities.

2. JiYeon

For both middle school and high school, JiYeon studied at the Seonhwa Arts School, which is considered to be one of the most prominent arts schools in South Korea. The school is known for its high academic standards, and how they require both high entrance exam scores and interviews to get accepted.

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: How Much Money Do K-Pop Idols Make With Their First Paycheck? tripleS, STAYC, More Discuss Their Beginning Salaries

For college, JiYeon attended Hanyang University College of Arts and Physical Education. Throughout her schooling, she majored in Dance and Ballet.

3. Lee Jiwoo

Earlier this year, it was confirmed that Lee Jiwoo started attending Dongguk University, and is under the department of performance. It is considered one of the biggest universities in South Korea and was ranked number eight on JoongAngIlbo's Korean university rankings in 2022.

IN OTHER TRIPLES NEWS: tripleS Food Budget Revealed - How Much Does It Cost To Feed 24 Members?

Other notable alumni from this university include Lee Seung Gi, T-ARA's Eunjung, and Girls' Generation's Yoona.

4. Xinyu

While competing on Mnet's "Girls Planet 999," it was revealed that Xinyu was a student at Berklee College of Music, where she majors in Contemporary Theater. Currently, she is on a leave of absence to promote as an idol in South Korea.

CHECK THIS OUT: TripleS Dance Routine Sparks Outrage Over 'Inappropriate' Moves

Berklee College of Music is among the most esteemed arts colleges in the United States. It is consistently ranked in the top ten American conservatories and has produced several notable alums. Some examples are Charlie Puth, Steven Tyler, and John Mayer.

5. Mayu

Mayu is currently a student at Meiji University and is majoring in economics. However, she is currently on a leave of absence due to her activities with tripleS in South Korea.

FOR YOU: tripleS Concert Faces Chaos As Fans Throw Objects at Members: 'It Actually Hit Her Eye!'

Meiji University is one of Japan's most esteemed private universities; It is the most applied-to university in the country and part of the Top Global University Project of Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.





Who is your tripleS bias? Tell us in the comments below!

KpopStarz Owns This

Written by Alexa Lopez
In an online community, K-Netz raised a heated debate about NingNing & Giselle being discriminated against among aespa members after seeing THIS photo.

On August 6, a Nate Pann user uploaded an article titled, "How bad is the discrimination between aespa members?"

In the attached photo, the fan signing item boxes of the quartet in Hong Kong can be seen in order: Giselle, NingNing, Winter, and Karina.

The transparent boxes contain fan gifts, letters, and tributes for each member, but the OP complained:

"Regardless of popularity, isn't it unfair that the company prepared different-sized boxes for each member?"

Looking at the photo, it can be inferred that NingNing and Giselle were given smaller containers because they received fewer gifts, while Winter had the largest box, followed by Karina.

Although the intention might differ, fans raised suspicions that Giselle and NingNing were being discriminated against, not to mention that the company indirectly trampled their confidence by making it look like they had fewer fans than the other two members.

ALSO READ: aespa Giselle Body-Shamed Following 'M Countdown' Stage: 'Did She Gain Weight Again?'

Supporters of Giselle and NingNing then added to the complaints, saying:

"But SM's member discrimination has been going on since then. It hasn't been fixed, but there are a lot more than that."

"It's uncomfortable to watch because they're so blatantly discriminatory from the seat assignments. They're not like two princesses or two maids, and the unpopular members are always on the sidelines."

"Although Karina & Winter is overwhelmingly popular, I don't think that's to the extent that Giselle & NingNing is inferior to them. I like Ningning the most too, but I can understand that much."

"If you fill up the small container, can't you just put it back and put another small container on it? That seems a bit lacking in sense and consideration."

"It's ridiculous that they have to make it a transparent box so that everything can be seen. They could have just prepared a paper box of the same size so that the inside could not be seen. Did they do it like that on purpose?"

"Wow, but Giselle is less popular than I thought."



On the flip side, most Korean MYs (aespa fandom) explained that it is not discrimination but rather the difference in popularity between the members. Although a lot of fans equally treat the quartet, there are still those who only support one member, also called the solo stan.

These fans are inevitable. Thus, MYs explained :

"If you receive a large amount (of gifts), you have no choice but to change it to a larger box...? What kind of discrimination is this?"

"That's better than unifying it into a big box and making it look more empty."

"If the box sizes are the same, it will be like this."

"It's not discrimination, it's just the difference in their popularity."

"There's nothing you can do about popular members. It's not easy for fans to treat all 4 members equally, and it's not just aespa, but the popularity difference is inevitable in any group."

"They predicted the influx and put the boxes away well. They are good at their job. If they put the same size in there, wouldn't the empty ones be more noticeable? Every group has popular members. How can that be discrimination?"

READ MORE: aespa NingNing Criticized After Fan Reveals Reason They Left Fandom: 'She failed to...'

For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Eunice Dela Cruz
On 6 August the US imposed sanctions on Paraguayan tobacco company Tabacalera del Este S.A. (Tabesa) for providing financial support to Paraguays former president,(2013-2018).

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On 6 August Honduras attorney general,, announced that 36 people mentioned in relation to the trials in the US linked to and including that of former president(Partido Nacional, PN, 2014-2022), who received a 45-year sentence in June for drug- and weapons-related crimes, would be called for questioning.

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On 6 August authorities in Brazils largest city, Sao Paulo, launched Operation Salus et Dignitas (health and dignity in Latin), which involved police raids in the illegal drug bazaar in the city centre known as Cracolandia (Crackland).

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The bodies of two people found in a Bethlehem home over the weekend have been identified as a married couple who died by murder-suicide, authorities said.

Celeste L. Kistler, 78, and her husband, 80-year-old Larry A. Kistler, both died from gunshot wounds, Northampton County Coroner Zachary R. Lysek said on Tuesday night.

An autopsy has determined Larry Kistlers manner of death as suicide and his wifes manner of death as homicide, according to the coroners office.

Police were called to the house on Redfern Lane on Saturday around 9:50 a.m. for a requested welfare check. Both bodies were found inside the residence, according to Bethlehem Police Chief Michelle Kott.

Editors note: NJ Advance Media typically limits reporting on suicides to those that occur in crowded public places, involve public figures or, in special circumstances, where there is a larger public impact. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with the proper mental health support and treatment. If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

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Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
Boar's Head is facing a potential class action lawsuit over a recall of 7 million pounds of deli meat linked to a listeria outbreak.TNS

Boars Head is facing a potential class action lawsuit over a recall of 7 million pounds of deli meat linked to a listeria outbreak.

The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York on Aug. 1, alleges Boars Head improperly, deceptively, and misleadingly labeled and marketed its products by not disclosing that the products had been potentially contaminated with listeria.

On July 26, 207,528 pounds of liverwurst and other deli meats Boars Head initially recalled were manufactured between June 11, 2024 and July 17, 2024.

That recall was linked to a listeria outbreak, which at the time sickened 34 people in 13 states, left two dead, including one person from New Jersey, and 33 others hospitalized.

Boars Head expanded the recall on July 30 to 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat deli meat and poultry products manufactured between May 10 and July 29.

The class-action suit is the second lawsuit against Boars Head linked to the listeria outbreak.

A Missouri woman filed the first lawsuit against the company in Missouri state court after she was hospitalized due to eating some of the contaminated cold cuts.

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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
More than 1,000 Lehigh Valley and northwest New Jersey residents were without power Wednesday morning after severe thunderstorms fueled by Tropical Storm Debby struck the region.

Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey braced for significant rainfall and some gusty winds as remnants of the system began to meander up the East Coast Tuesday evening. The National Weather Service predicted up to 5 inches of rain in areas where the heaviest storms formed. The majority of the region, however, was expected to get 1.5 to 2.5 inches of rain through Wednesday morning, the weather service said.

Damaging wind and even hail in some areas knocked power out for 900 Northampton County customers and seven customers in Lehigh County, Met-Eds outage map reports. Met-Ed spokesman Todd Meyers told lehighvalleylive.com in Northampton County, the majority  740 impacted households  are in Williams Township.

The remainder are widely scattered in small pockets, Meyers said.

In Lehigh County, seven Met-Ed customers remain without power, he said. Meyers said crews plan to work around the clock to assess damage and set restoration timeframes for customers. Meyers expected the majority of customers to be restored by 11 p.m. Wednesday.

Meyers added everyone should stay at least 30 feet away from any downed power lines and assume all are live wires.

As of 10 a.m., PPL spokeswoman Kelly Palmer said 35 customers in Northampton County and another 15 in Lehigh County remain without power. All the outages are weather-related and estimated restoration times for both counties is by Wednesday evening, Palmer said.

Jersey Central Power & Light, another FirstEnergy company, is reporting on its outage map 508 Warren County customers remained in the dark Wednesday morning. The highest amount  more than 150 households  are in Mansfield Township, the map states.

A graphic from the National Weather Service shows heavy rain and flash flooding concerns through Friday, Aug. 9, 2024.National Weather Service

The National Weather Service continues to predict flash flooding, severe thunderstorms and impacts from Debby until Saturday throughout the region. Damaging wind gusts from severe thunderstorms and small hail remain possible. A tornado cannot be ruled out, the weather service says.

Wednesdays forecast is calling for scattered showers and thunderstorms. Itll be mostly cloudy with a high temperature near 73 degrees, the forecast states. The chance of precipitation is 40% for Wednesday with new rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch expected. There may be higher rainfall amounts from thunderstorms.

Wednesday evening is expected to bring scattered showers and thunderstorms as the low temperatures dip to around 63 degrees. The chance of precipitation is 40% with new rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch.

AccuWeather is making similar predictions, calling for cloudy and cooler temps at 74 degrees with a couple of showers for Wednesday. Wednesday evening is expected to dip to 65 degrees, AccuWeather predicts.

Some rain is also possible throughout Thursday, but the main effects from Debby are expected to come Friday and Saturday. The track and timing of the storm will determine how much rain the region will get and how rough the surf will be at the Jersey Shore.

The chance of precipitation is 100% on Friday and 60% on Saturday for the region, the weather service predicts.

The utility companies said while winds are not expected to exceed 30 miles per hour, they have their eye on possible flooding in low-lying areas, creeks and streams. That could pose even more challenges, Meyers noted.

Heavy rain softens the ground, and even moderate breezes can uproot trees and topple them into our power lines, he said. In other cases, overflowing streams can erode ground around power poles, leading to outages. Floodwaters can close roads and make our power line right-of-ways inaccessible until the water recedes, potentially delaying crews ability to make repairs and restore power.

Things should get drier, however, by Sunday. Both weather agencies are predicting sunny skies for Sunday with a high temperature forecast around 80 degrees.

Current radar:

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Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
Unaccountable State agency staff in Dublin should not be deciding the locations of bus shelters and road layouts in Laois, a TD has said.

That was the opinion of Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley, who said the council area engineers and councillors should have a say in developments along national routes in their county.

He emphasised his point by highlighting recent issues with bus shelters and a road layout in Portlaoise and in Mountrath.

Dep Stanley welcomed the rollout of new bus shelters in Laois but said he believes there should have been local input from area engineers and councillors. In Mountrath, he said the new bus stops are leading to traffic congestion as there is no pull-in area for the buses when they stop.

He said if a bus arrives early at the stop in the middle of the road in Mountrath while the driver waits until the scheduled arrival time before it can set off again. When this happens, traffic behind gets backed up or has to try and get around. He noted buses are also known to arrive at the two new stops on opposite sides of the road at the same time meaning nothing can get by.

It is great to get the bus shelters but this is something that is going to come up again and again, he said.

Dep Stanley said the area engineers and the councillors need to make these decisions.

It is the complete destruction of local government and the people who make decisions are unaccountable, they are faceless, said Dep Stanley.

He was speaking about what he deemed dictacts from Transport Infrastructure Ireland(TII) and the National Transport Authority(NTA) in relation to road layout and bus shelters on national routes in Laois.

He said there would have been room on Patrick Street in Mountrath for a bus to pull over but it wasnt given consideration.

The answer given by the TII is that they are traffic calming measures, he said.

Dep Stanley said the same logic was applied when work was being carried out on the Abbeyleix Road in Portlaoise. He said a right turning lane should have been in place out beyond Supervalu heading for Abbeyleix and too much room was given to paths and cycle lanes.

Elsewhere in Portlaoise, he said there was room for a pull-in space at the outbound bus stop in Kilminchy but only half of it was used.

This isnt the councils fault. These are national dictats that just make no common sense, said Dep Stanley.

This is an example of local democracy being stood on its head, he argued.

Dep Stanley called for the councillors to be given more leeway on these matters and for the council to have more input.

He said the process of applying for a bus shelter was far too onerous and complicated. He said the process is too slow and areas like Castletown, Borris-in-Ossory and along the Athy to Castlecomer Road still needed bus shelters.

He said bus shelters were vital to promoting the use of public transport and the process needs to be far simpler.

We have to contact somebody in Dublin to get a bus shelter, he explained.

Dep Stanley said the powers to approve a bus shelter should be devolved to local authorities.
Hundreds of new houses are being built in Portlaoise but all six of the town's primary schools are already full to the gills, highlighted by a local teacher and county councillor, Cllr Tommy Mulligan.

He tabled two motions to the July meeting of Laois County Council, highlighting the lack of places across all pre-schools, creches, primary and special needs classes in the town, while hundreds of new families continue to move in to the expanding town.

"I am hearing from young families around the town that they are waiting at least one year for creche, two years for pre-school. Some will start school without early childhood programme.

"Is there a need for another special school? Can we send a letter to the Minister outlining the seriousness of it," Cllr Mulligan said.

He asked the council to consult with education agencies to make sure there are enough school places in Portlaoise in coming years.

"With the new building projects having commenced and the expected population projection there is an acute problem around school places. With most schools at capacity is there an awareness around the lack of availability of school places for pre-school, primary, post-primary and special classes?" his motion said.

"To my knowledge, primary places in Laois are at capacity. People don't want to go outside their town, they want to be educated in their own community with their friends," he said.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley seconded, outlining how one education body's proposal was rejected by the Department of Education.

Laois Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) had proposed to patron a new school if the Department paid to build it, but were turned down, reported a year ago in the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

"I support this as a member of the board of the Laois Offaly ETB. They have patronage of a secondary school, they have been actively involved to take on patronage of a primary school. We all know the demand for places in primary schools in the county, not just Portlaoise. Children in Aghnaharna are being bussed to Stradbally and the Holy Family Schools are across the road.

"Very disappointingly, the Department said they didn't see any problem and feeder schools should take the overflow. Raheen, Mountrath, Rathdowney, they are all bursting at the seems. If we are pushing all the children in Portlaoise to feeder schools, then they are all lobbying for bus places. The Department is not being realistic about this. The LOETB is determined to go back," she said.

"We always seem to be playing catchup. The patronage for Dunamase College (nearing construction stage) was passed in 2016. We've identified a problem for the last number of years. We need the department to accept our word that it is a problem," added Cllr Dwane Stanley.

Cllr Barry Walsh who is from Ballyroan, 10km from Portlaoise, said that the new school there which opened seven years ago is now in need of an extension, and is now building a special needs unit.

"I don't understand the department. The census figures showed this growth, surely they could forward plan," he said.

They agreed to write to Minister for Education Norma Foley and point out that the LOETB is willing to run a new school.Laois is the only county without an ETB primary school.

Cllr John King suggests that it also be raised again at the next LOETB meeting.

A second motion calls on Minister for Education Norma Foley to ensure there are enough special needs places in schools all over Laois.

"Many schools made application for Special Needs Education (SEN) classes. The official line is that no school without space will be sanctioned. One example is the Gaelscoil in Portlaoise. It has an existing site for a two classroom modular building, ready to go. The space and equipment is there but the department informed them that it hasn't been sanctioned," he said.

Cllr Aisling Moran seconded.

"There needs to be special needs classes in every school. Kids are going from towns to rural schools then there is no space left for the rural kids. There should be a five year projection, you generally know a year or two after a child is born," she said.

One year ago, Portlaoise school principals confirmed the shortage of places to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

Dermot OConnor is Deputy Principal at the Holy Family Senior School.

This campus is full. There is a waiting list for all classes. In June the pressure is no different than at admission time in January. People are coming now looking for places for September. They tell us they have got accommodation or they are buying a new house, theres new houses going up all around us.

A lot of them expect that when they see a school from the bedroom window, they can send their children there, but there isnt space, he had said in June 2023.

Last year, 455 new homes were built in Portlaoise.

Portlaoise's population has more than doubled in 15 years, shooting up from 11,000 in 2006 to over 25,000 according to the 2022 Census, making Portlaoise now the most populated town in the Midlands overtaking Athlone. It also has the highest percentage of people aged under 18 in Ireland.

It continues to grow rapidly with multiple private and social housing estates and apartment blocks planned or under construction at present.
Approval has been given for the former Sisters of Mercy convent on New Street in Rathangan to be converted into apartments.

The promoters of the 24 apartment project are Kildare Co Council and Sophia Housing Association Ltd, an approved housing body.

It's understood that these properties are age-friendly units intended for suitable people on the Council's housing list.

The project has an estimated construction value of 2.6m, according to the Construction Information Ireland database.



St John's Convent was home to the Sisters of Mercy until they departed the town in 2017.

Sophia is one of the largest providers of supported housing in Limerick and in Cork it recently opened a number of new homes. It also provides supported housing in Clare, Kilkenny, Laois, Cork, and Sligo.

A Part 8 planning application for the project was submitted by Kildare County Council.



The demolition of the former Convent has been approved.

The plans include the construction of 24 residential units of one-bedroom two-bedroom sizes in two blocks of 2-storey height.





Also in the designs is a Community Room, 32 car-parking spaces and six visitor spaces.



There will also be 37 long-stay secure bicycle parking spaces and 12 short-stay bicycle parking spaces.



A public open space and a communal open space are also in the plans.

A new site entrance, access road, footpaths and public lighting are included in the designs.
An additional 250,000 of renewed funding has been announced for the Irish Mens Shed Association. The Irish Mens Shed Association provides a highly valuable space for men to come together, share skills, socialise and work on projects together.

Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Colm Burke TD announced the good news. This highly welcomed initiative acknowledges the contributions of the Irish Men's Sheds to their communities and their positive impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of members.

Deputy Frank Feighan, Sligo-Leitrim TD has welcomed the announcement.

The initiative to fund the Mens Shed organisation was introduced by myself when I was Minister, and I am delighted to see Minister Burke continue the programme for funding.

I believe the work done locally by the mens shed is immeasurable in terms of the mental health and well-being of so many men of a certain age group.

I want to encourage men to look at what the mens shed do in terms of activities and consider joining their local group, they will certainly make new friends, develop new skills and may find a fresh outlook in life and ultimately it will benefit their mental health and wellbeing, concluded Deputy Feighan.

There are currently seven mens sheds in County Leitrim. These are in Carrick-on-Shannon, Mohill, Kinlough, Ballinamore, Aughavas, Killenummery and North Leitrim (Manorhamilton).

Willie Crangle from the bustling Mens Shed in Carrick-on-Shannon commented on the renewed funding and expressed optimism about advancing the shed's initiatives.

We take what we can get, Willie said.

Its great to be able to get that funding in the first place.

Were continuously upgrading here. We just upgraded a full electrical rewire within the shed. Going forward, were trying to adapt to more comfortable surroundings, especially for the winter.

Ninety percent of our members are between 70 and mid eighties so we try to make it as comfortable as possible, Willie explained.

The Carrick-on-Shannon Mens Shed have been extremely active in the community, working with local schools and community groups like Tidy Towns. In July, the Shed donated three woodworking projects to Scoil Mhuire.

The group mainly carry out woodworking, creating a variety of objects such as bird boxes, window boxes and planters.

Willie hopes to broaden the Shed's activities and introduce even more creative opportunities for its members.

We want to try to incorporate some arts if we can get there. We have to try to employ an arts teacher to come in and do a course for some of the members, Willie said.

We had a woodworking artist come in for a ten week period and give lessons. Were continuously trying to expand and get the lads to do something.

However, the Mens Shed is not just focused on building projects; it also offers a space for men to relax and socialise with one another.

We have a TV and people can sit down and just have a conversation. We let our members find their own way and then we might give them a course on what machines they can use or we might do some bird boxes and planters and get them to paint them.

The group currently sees an average of eight to ten new members a year and are always looking for more to join.

Weve seen an awful lot of men that come into the shed, extremely quiet, and after a while you can see the difference.

They think when they come in that tradesmen can do the work but anybody can do it if theyre trained, Willie said.

The Carrick-on-Shannon Mens Shed exemplifies the vital role these sheds play across the county in enhancing the well-being of men. With ongoing support, Mens Sheds in County Leitrim and beyond are set to grow their activities and bring even more benefits to their members.
Euromax Announces Partial Repayment of Debt Owed to EBRD and Subscription by EBRD for Additional Securities





TSXV: EOX

www.euromaxresources.com

Investors are advised to disregard the news release issued before markets opened on August 6, 2024, which relates to a previously completed private placement and was issued in error.

VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 6, 2024 /CNW/ - Euromax Resources Ltd. (TSXV: EOX): ("Euromax" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a debt settlement agreement (the "DSA") to settle a portion of the outstanding debt owing to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development ("EBRD") under the convertible debenture issued by the Company to EBRD in principal amount of USD$5 million, as amended (the "Debenture"). Pursuant to the DSA, Euromax will be paying off C$245,857.98 representing a portion of the fees and interest owed to EBRD under the Debenture (the "Debt Repayment Amount").

In connection with the Debt Repayment Amount, Euromax will be issuing to EBRD 12,292,899 units in the capital of the Company (the "Units"), with each Unit consisting of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"), at a deemed offering price of C$0.02 per Unit (collectively, the "Transaction"). Each Warrant will be exercisable for one Common Share for a period of five years from the date of issuance, at an exercise price of C$0.05.

The board of directors of the Company (the "Board") has determined that it is in the best interests of the Company to settle the outstanding Debt Repayment Amount by entering into the Transaction in order to preserve the Company's cash for ongoing operations.

Closing of the Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company intends to close the Transaction as soon as practicable. The Units to be issued pursuant to the Transaction will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance.

The Transaction is not expected to materially affect control of the Company. As EBRD is a related party of Euromax, in completing the Transaction, the Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements of Policy 5.9 of the TSXV and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ? Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") in respect of related party transactions contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, respectively.

Prior to completion of the Transaction, EBRD owned 23,368,547 Common Shares and was beneficially entitled to own and control an additional 112,628,582 Common Shares by converting all amounts owing to it under the Debenture as at July 31, 2024 (assuming a conversion price of C$0.15 per Common Share and an exchange rate of US$1 = C$1.38488), for an aggregate beneficial ownership of Common Shares of 135,997,129, representing an aggregate ownership interest of approximately 14.25% (on a post-conversion basis).

Following completion of the Transaction, including the Common Shares of the Company that it currently owns and assuming the exercise of all of the Warrants granted to it pursuant to the Transaction, EBRD would be entitled to beneficially own and control 158,943,874 Common Shares for an aggregate ownership interest of 16.27% (on a post-conversion and exercise basis) of the issued and outstanding Common Shares, representing an increase in beneficial ownership of 2.02% (on a post-conversion basis) of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of the Company.

The Transaction was agreed in furtherance to a private placement, the final tranche of which closed on May 7, 2024 (the "Previous Placement"), in order to maintain EBRD ownership interest (on a fully diluted basis) at or about the same level as prevailed prior to completion of that Previous Placement in accordance with its pre-emption rights. Depending on market conditions and other factors, EBRD may from time to time acquire and/or dispose of securities of the Company or continue to hold its current position.

To obtain a copy of the early warning report filed in connection with this press release, please contact:

Mikhail Zlobin (telephone number +44 207338 8981) or David Ryba (telephone number +44 207338 6203).

EBRD's address is 5 Bank Street, London, United Kingdom, E14 4BG.

About Euromax Resources Ltd.

Euromax has a major development project in North Macedonia and is focused on building and operating the Ilovica-Shtuka gold-copper project.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains statements that are forward-looking, such as those relating to the completion of the Transaction and fulfilment of customary closing conditions (including final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange), the Company's cash for ongoing operations, and statements related to the Company's reliance on MI 61-101. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterised by words such as "plan","expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the dates the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in filings made by the Company, including its annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023 and financial statements and related MD&A for the financial years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, as well as the financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 and the related MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2024, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available on SEDAR+ at sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are as of the date of this document, and are subject to change after this date. 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. Euromax disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law. All information in this news release concerning EBRD has been provided for inclusion herein by EBRD. Although the Company has no knowledge that would indicate that any information contained herein concerning EBRD is untrue or incomplete, the Company assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any such information. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

SOURCE Euromax Resources Ltd.

6 august 2024 at 17:02

News published onand distributed by:
CNOOC Limited Adds over 100 Billion Cubic Meters of Proved Gas In-place





HONG KONG, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CNOOC Limited (the "Company", SEHK: 00883 (HKD Counter) and 80883 (RMB Counter), SSE: 600938) announces today that Chinese governmental authorities have approved the proved gas in-place of Lingshui 36-1 gas field, which stands at over 100 billion cubic meters. It is the first large-size ultra-shallow gas field in ultra-deep water in the world, which opens up a new area of exploration in deep waters.

Lingshui 36-1 gas field is located in the southern portion of the Central Sag, Qiongdongnan Basin. The average water depth of the gas field is approximately 1,500 meters, and the burial depth is 210 meters, making it a typical ultra-deep-water ultra-shallow gas field. The field has been tested to produce over 10 million cubic meters per day of absolute open flow natural gas.

The Company has been searching for oil and gas resources in the South China Sea for decades. Multiple large-size gas fields have been discovered in Yinggehai, Qiongdongnan and Pearl River Mouth basins, namely Dongfang 1-1, Liwan 3-1, Lingshui 17-2, Baodao 21-1 and now, Lingshui 36-1. By far, the total proved gas in-place in the region has exceeded one trillion cubic meters. The South China Sea trillion-cubic-meters gas region has thus become reality.

Mr. Xu Changgui, Chief Geologist of the Company, said, "Ultra-shallow gas reservoirs are important sources of hydrocarbon in deep waters. However, you must overcome world-class challenges to explore and develop the reservoirs. CNOOC Limited has adopted new exploration concepts on the formation mechanism and new technological approaches to tackle the challenges. The successful discovery of Lingshui 36-1 has opened up the new area of exploration for gas resources in ultra-deep-water ultra-shallow plays."

Mr. Zhou Xinhuai, CEO and President of the Company, said, "The newly discovered ultra-deep-water ultra-shallow gas field is an important composition of the trillion-cubic-meters gas region in the South China Sea. The completion of the trillion-cubic-meters gas region embodies the enormous achievements CNOOC Limited has accomplished in the South China Sea in the past 40 years. We have now embarked on a new journey to further expand the resource base of the Company. CNOOC Limited is committed to supplying the society with stable clean energy and contributing to the low-carbon development of the economy."

? End ?

Notes to Editors:

More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com.

*** *** *** ***

This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company's expectations, including but not limited to those associated with fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, macro-political and economic factors, changes in the tax and fiscal regimes of the host countries in which we operate, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, environmental responsibility and compliance requirements, the Company's price forecast, the exploration and development activities, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations.

*** *** *** ***

For further enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Cui Liu

Media & Public Relations

CNOOC Limited

Tel: +86-10-8452-6641

Fax: +86-10-8452-1441

E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Bunny Lee

Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group

Tel: +852 3150 6707

Fax: +852 3150 6728

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE CNOOC Limited

7 august 2024 at 05:56

News published onand distributed by:
Collective Mining Publishes its 2023 Sustainability Report and Increases its Social Investments in its Area of Influence





TORONTO, Aug. 7, 2024 /CNW/ - Collective Mining Ltd. (NYSE: CNL) (TSX: CNL) ("Collective" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the release of its 2023 Sustainability Report, which outlines and critics the Company's impacts, mitigation measures, and overall stewardship of the environment, communities, and corporate governance in the Department of Caldas, Colombia. In 2023, Collective Mining materially increased its social investment as compared to the 2022 period, with over $280,000 invested on a standalone basis and $822,944 on a cumulative basis with strategic partners. Investments include but are not limited to community projects, aqueduct enhancements, road construction, communal facility improvements, agricultural initiatives, and support for women entrepreneurs, benefiting over 1,700 individuals.

Notable highlights in 2023 from the Sustainability Report are as follows:

A favorable Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) of 0, closing 2023 with a record of 710 days without lost time incidents.





Planting 1,900 seedlings to protect areas close to sources of water with particular emphasis on supporting aqueducts in our area of influence.





The Company conducted its second carbon footprint assessment and achieved carbon neutrality by purchasing 700 offset credits from the conservation project "Delfines Cupica REDD+."

Omar Ossma, President and CEO stated, "By integrating our sustainability initiatives at such an early stage into our operating matrix, we are building a strong foundation in our host region, which will serve to ensure a successful mining project in the future. This is 'The Collective Way'. As always, we want to extend our appreciation to all of our strategic partners in the region, as well as to the communities, for allowing us to be a part of their programs and participate in their everyday life."

The report is available on the Company's website at www.collectivemining.com under Sustainability.

About Collective Mining Ltd.

To see our latest corporate presentation and related information, please visit www.collectivemining.com

Founded by the team that developed and sold Continental Gold Inc. to Zijin Mining for approximately $2 billion in enterprise value, Collective is a copper, silver, gold and tungsten exploration company with projects in Caldas, Colombia. The Company has options to acquire 100% interests in two projects located directly within an established mining camp with ten fully permitted and operating mines.

The Company's flagship project, Guayabales, is anchored by the Apollo system, which hosts the large-scale, bulk-tonnage and high-grade copper-silver-gold-tungsten Apollo porphyry system. The Company's 2024 objective is to expand the Apollo system, step out along strike to expand the recently discovered Trap system and make a new discovery at either the Tower, X or Plutus targets.

Management, insiders, a strategic investor and close family and friends own nearly 50% of the outstanding shares of the Company and as a result, are fully aligned with shareholders. The Company is listed on the NYSE under the trading symbol "CNL", on the TSX under the trading symbol "CNL", on the FSE under the trading symbol "GG1".

Information Contact:

Follow Executive Chairman Ari Sussman (@Ariski73) on X

Follow Collective Mining (@CollectiveMini1) on X, (Collective Mining) on LinkedIn, and (@collectivemining) on Instagram

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussion with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often, but not always using phrases such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, to: the anticipated advancement of mineral properties or programs; future operations; future recovery metal recovery rates; future growth potential of Collective; and future development plans.

These forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding future events including final listing mechanics and the direction of our business. Management believes that these assumptions are reasonable. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: risks related to the speculative nature of the Company's business; the Company's formative stage of development; the Company's financial position; possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery rates; actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of future economic evaluations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, precious and base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets; change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formation pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the annual information form of the Company dated March 27, 2024. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

SOURCE Collective Mining Ltd.

7 august 2024 at 06:30

News published onand distributed by:
WILLOW BIOSCIENCES ANNOUNCES NEW FUNDED BIOPESTICIDES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP AFTER SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETING FEASIBILITY STUDY





After a successful feasibility study, Company expands into the high growth biopesticide sector with a funded research and development program to produce valuable natural ingredients using its precision fermentation platform

Program expected to generate over $2 million in revenue in first year with guaranteed payments of over $1 million in 2024

Company now anticipates revenue of over $4 million in 2024 on existing programs

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 7, 2024 /CNW/ - Willow Biosciences Inc. ("Willow" or the "Company") (TSX: WLLW) (OTCQB: CANSF), a leading biotechnology company focused on revolutionizing industrial manufacturing of pure, consistent, and sustainable ingredients, announces that it has signed a fully funded strain engineering program (the "Program") with an innovative Ag-Biotech company in the biopesticides sector.

"This is truly an exciting partnership for Willow, as it not only comes with significant near-term research and development and future commercial milestone payments, but also extends our technology and capabilities into the high growth biopesticide sector," said Dr. Chris Savile, Willow's President & CEO. "I am once again impressed with our team and technology platform for quickly demonstrating proof-of-concept and progressing to a full development partnership," continued Dr. Savile.

On June 26, 2024, the Company announced a feasibility program with an innovative Ag-Biotech company in the biopesticides sector. Today, the Company announced that after successfully completing the feasibility phase, it has now signed a funded research and development agreement (the "Agreement"). The Program is expected to take at least 12 months to complete, with guaranteed research and development revenue for Willow of $1.25 million within the first 6 months and an additional $1 million in research and development revenue in the following six months, with an option to extend, should both parties decide to continue. If successful, upon completion of the Program, the Company will receive significant commercial milestone payments, which are tiered based on the performance of the new strain. The research and development required to complete the Program will be completed using existing facilities, equipment and employees and will require minimal additional costs and resources.

Biochemical pesticides are naturally occurring substances that control pests through non-toxic, targeted mechanisms resulting in enhanced crop productions. According to Fortune Business Insights (fortunebusinessinsights.com, July 22, 2024), the global biopesticides market size is estimated to be $US 8.7 billion in 2024 with a compound annual growth rate of 15.9%. Biopesticides are typically safer and more environmentally friendly than conventional pesticides but can be challenging to produce at large scale.

About Willow Biosciences Inc.

Willow develops biobased processes to manufacture ingredients for pharmaceutical, food and beverage and consumer markets. Willow's FutureGrowntm and BioOxitm platforms enable large-scale production with sustainability at its core. Willow's R&D team has a proven track record of developing and commercializing bio-based manufacturing processes and products to benefit our B2B partners and their customers. For more information, visit www.willowbio.com.

FutureGrowntm and BioOxitm are registered trademarks of Willow Biosciences Inc.

READER ADVISORIES

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may include forward-looking statements including opinions, assumptions, estimates and the Company's assessment of future plans, platforms, operations and expansion, and, more particularly, statements concerning: the completion of the Program in accordance with the terms of the Agreement, and receipt of funding relating thereto;; Willow's ability to successfully complete the Program and achieve the commercial milestones relating thereto; anticipated revenues, generally and from the Program; expansion into the high growth biopesticide sector pursuant to a new partnered program; the demand and market size potential of the synthetic ingredients and biopesticides industries; the growth rate of the biochemical pesticides; and the business plan of the Company, generally. When used in this news release, the words "will," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intent," "may," "project," "should," and similar expressions (or variations or negatives thereof) are intended to be among the statements that identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are founded on the basis of expectations and assumptions made by the Company which include, but are not limited to: the success of Willow's strategic partnerships, including the Program; the financial strength of the Company; the ability of the Company to fund its business plan using cash on hand and existing resources; the market for Willow's products; the biochemical pesticides market; the ability of the Company to obtain and retain applicable licences; the ability of the Company to obtain suitable manufacturing partners and other strategic relationships; and the successful implementation of Willow's commercialization and production strategy, generally. Forward-looking statements are subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties, and although the Company believes that the expectations represented by such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will be realized. Any number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to: risks of the biotechnology industry in general; the success of the Company's research and development strategies; the Company's ability to complete the Program as set out in the Agreement; infringement on intellectual property; failure to benefit from partnerships or successfully integrate acquisitions; actions and initiatives of federal, state and provincial governments and changes to government policies and the execution and impact of these actions, initiatives and policies; competition from other industry participants; adverse U.S., Canadian and global economic conditions; adverse global events and public-health crises; failure to comply with certain regulations; departure of key management personnel or inability to attract and retain talent; and other factors more fully described from time to time in the reports and filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities. Please refer to the Company's most recent annual information form and management's discussion and analysis for additional risk factors relating to Willow, which can be accessed either on Willow's website at www.willowbio.com or under the Company's profile on www.sedarplus.ca.

Any financial outlook and future-oriented financial information contained in this document regarding prospective financial performance, financial position, cash balances or revenue, including the anticipated receipt of revenue of over $4.0 million in for 2024 on existing programs, including $1.25 million in guaranteed research & development payments in the first six months and an additional $1 million in the following six months under the collaboration agreement is based on assumptions about future events, including economic conditions and proposed courses of action based on management's assessment of the relevant information that is currently available. Projected operational information contains forward-looking information and is based on a number of material assumptions and factors, as are set out above. These projections may also be considered to contain future-oriented financial information or a financial outlook. The actual results of the Company's operations for any period will likely vary from the amounts set forth in these projections and such variations may be material. Actual results will vary from projected results. Readers are cautioned that any such financial outlook and future-oriented financial information contained herein should not be used for purposes other than those for which it is disclosed herein.

Financial information in this news release is expressed in Canadian dollars.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Third Party Information

Certain information contained herein has been obtained from published sources prepared by independent industry analysts and third-party sources (including industry publications, surveys and forecasts). While such information is believed to be reliable for the purposes used herein, Willow does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy of such information. The sources cited in this news release have not consented to the inclusion of any data from their reports, nor has Willow sought their consent.

SOURCE Willow Biosciences Inc.

7 august 2024 at 07:00

News published onand distributed by:
Hormel Foods Showcases Meaningful Progress in its 18th Annual Global Impact Report





The company continues to advance its environmental and social impact goals and commitments

AUSTIN, Minn., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global-branded food company, today announced the release of its 18th Global Impact Report. The report, available online, demonstrates the company's ongoing commitment to corporate responsibility and progress toward its environmental, social and governance goals in fiscal 2023.

"Responsible business practices have ? and will always be ? fundamental to our company," said Jim Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer of Hormel Foods. "Since our founding more than 130 years ago, we've been passionate about making the world a better place. We recognize our role in shaping a better future for generations to come and that our reach and scale enable us to make a significant impact and be a positive influence. Our Global Impact Report reflects where we are today and is a road map for where we aspire to be in the future."

Highlights of the company's 2023 progress include:

Validating science-based targets by the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi), formalizing the company's 1.5 degree Celsius-aligned 2030 emissions reduction targets for Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.





Reducing product packaging by nearly 1.7 million pounds by optimizing packaging design and improving shipping efficiencies.





Achieving the lowest recordable incident rate in our company's history and an 18% improvement from the prior year.





Providing more than 200 dependents of U.S. team members with the opportunity of a free two-year college education at an eligible school of their choice through the company's groundbreaking tuition program Inspired Pathways.





Contributing more than $12.5 million in cash and products to uplift communities, including $10 million dedicated to hunger relief efforts.





in cash and products to uplift communities, including dedicated to hunger relief efforts. Continuing to invest in the Hometown Food Security Project, a cross-sector coalition working to alleviate food insecurity in Mower County, Minnesota , home of our worldwide headquarters and largest production facility.

As a leader in the global food industry, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards in every aspect of our operations, and we continue to be recognized as a leading corporate citizen. We are proud of the many awards we received in 2023, including being named one of the World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune and one of America's Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek magazine.

The 2023 Hormel Foods Global Impact Report follows Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards and follows the reporting guidance and principles of Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Processed Foods and Meat, Poultry & Dairy Standards. Projects and initiatives featured in the report include information about the efforts of Hormel Foods that support the select United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Content within this report has been reviewed and approved by the company's Board of Directors, Global Impact Executive Council, company leaders and internal experts who oversee relevant sustainability topics across the business.

To view the entire report, please visit www.hormelfoods.com/global-impact.

About Hormel Foods ? Inspired People. Inspired Food.tm

Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), based in Austin, Minnesota, is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue across more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include Planters, Skippy, SPAM, Hormel Natural Choice, Applegate, Justin's, Wholly, Hormel Black Label, Columbus, Jennie-O and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of the best companies to work for by U.S. News & World Report, one of America's most responsible companies by Newsweek, recognized on Fast Company's list of the 100 Best Workplaces for Innovators, received a perfect score of 100 on the 2023?24 Corporate Equality Index and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives by its purpose statement ? Inspired People. Inspired Food.tm ? to bring some of the world's most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com.

Contact: Media Relations

Hormel Foods

[email protected]

SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation

7 august 2024 at 08:00

News published onand distributed by:
Chime Partners with NCR Atleos to Expand Brand Reach Across the United States





NCR Atleos Corporation (NYSE: NATL) ("Atleos"), a leader in expanding self-service financial access for financial institutions, retailers and consumers, today announced that Chime, the #1 Most Loved Banking AppTM1, has expanded its relationship with Atleos, entrusting its brand and cardholder experience to ATMs within Atleos' Allpoint Network at more than 4,000 Walgreens stores across the country.

Atleos' Allpoint Network has provided reliable, secure, and scaled fee-free ATM access for Chime members since 2021. Today, Chime offers its members a network of more than 50,0002 fee-free ATMs, provided by Atleos' Allpoint Network. Beginning in August, Atleos will begin branding ATMs at 4,000 Walgreens stores with the award-winning Chime brand to build greater awareness with consumers.

"We are delighted to expand our relationship with Chime," said Stuart Mackinnon, COO of Atleos. "It will be easier than ever for Chime cardholders to identify and use fee-free ATMs to access cash."

"Our members love the mobile-first convenience and ease of Chime, but they still expect convenient, fee-free access to cash," said Nick Fairbairn, Vice President of Marketing for Chime. "This partnership with Atleos has ensured our members have easy access to cash when they need it by simply stopping into their local Walgreens and even shopping for everyday essentials while they're at it."

About Chime

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank, founded on the premise that basic banking services should be helpful, transparent, and fair. Chime aims to profit with consumers, and not from them and has a business model that doesn't rely on consumer fees such as overdraft, monthly service, or minimum balance fees. For additional information: www.chime.com.

About Atleos

Atleos (NYSE: NATL) is a leader in expanding self-service financial access, with industry-leading ATM expertise and experience, unrivalled operational scale including the largest independently-owned ATM network, always-on global services and constant innovation. Atleos improves operational efficiency for financial institutions, drives footfall for retailers and enables digital-first financial self-service experiences for consumers. Atleos is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with approximately 20,000 employees globally.

Web site: https://www.ncratleos.com

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/ncratleos

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Atleos.NCR/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ncratleos

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ncratleos

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ncratleos/

1. Chime is recommended by more of its users than that of any brand per 2023 Qualtrics NPS score.

2. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

7 august 2024 at 08:05

News published onand distributed by:
Minister Lebouthillier to co-chair the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers meeting





OTTAWA, ON, Aug. 7, 2024 /CNW/ - Collaboration with provincial and territorial partners is critical to keeping Canada's waters and coastlines safe, healthy and prosperous, now and for generations to come.

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, will travel to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, to co-chair the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers (CCFAM) meeting taking place August 14 and 15. She will be joined by her provincial co-chair, the Honourable Cory Deagle, Minister of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture for Prince Edward Island, as well as their provincial and territorial counterparts. Minister Lebouthillier will also meet with leaders and representatives of the National Indigenous Organizations.

During the meeting, Minister Lebouthillier, and her provincial and territorial counterparts will engage a number of priorities of the Council, including discussing climate change and the future prosperity of our coastal communities. She will hear from provincial and territorial leaders on these important issues, and together they will focus on solutions to safeguard the future of fish, fish habitat, fisheries and aquaculture in an ever-changing environment. Minister Lebouthillier will also stress Canada's commitment to growing trade and commercial opportunities for Canadian fish and seafood products.

Quotes

"As stewards of Canada's freshwater resources and oceans, it is critical to have open dialogue and collaboration across jurisdictions. I look forward to working together and sharing perspectives with my provincial and territorial counterparts to better understand the impact of climate change on the future prosperity of our ocean and freshwater resources, and how we can work together and find solutions to contribute to a sustainable and thriving ocean economy, from coast to coast to coast."

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

"We are pleased to host our federal, provincial and territorial counterparts here in beautiful and historic Prince Edward Island as we work together to address key industry challenges and explore innovative solutions. As co-chair, I hope that these meetings can encourage collaboration and drive progress in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices as we look at the impacts of climate change, market demands and the continued need to innovate. We look forward to productive discussions and impactful outcomes."

The Honourable Cory Deagle, Minister of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture for Prince Edward Island

Quick Facts:

CCFAM is the primary multilateral engagement forum between federal, provincial and territorial governments to address fisheries and aquaculture issues of national importance. CCFAM's primary mandate is promoting interjurisdictional cooperation in freshwater and marine fisheries and aquaculture issues of national importance, and providing a forum to meet common goals.

Council members meet annually to discuss issues of priority to CCFAM, with a rotating provincial/territorial co-chair hosting the meeting along with the federal minister.

Canada's marine economy contributes approximately $51.8 billion annually to the country's gross domestic product. This sector also supports nearly 427,000 jobs across diverse areas such as fisheries and aquaculture, water transportation, ocean energy and technology, recreation, and tourism. These direct benefits play a crucial role in Canada's communities.

Associated Links

Stay Connected

Follow Fisheries and Oceans Canada on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Follow the Canadian Coast Guard on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada

7 august 2024 at 11:20

News published onand distributed by:
Virgin Galactic Announces Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results And Provides Business Update





Virgin Galactic Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SPCE) ("Virgin Galactic" or the "Company") today announced its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024 and provided a business update.

Michael Colglazier, Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Galactic said, "Progress on our Delta Class spaceship program was substantial in Q2, with the pace of design completion accelerating and tool fabrication underway. In the next month, our teams will pivot primary focus from design completion to the build and test phases of our production spaceships, which remain on track to enter commercial service in 2026."

Second Quarter 2024 Financial Highlights

Cash position remains strong, with cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $821 million as of June 30, 2024.

Revenue of $4 million, compared to $2 million in the second quarter of 2023, driven by commercial spaceflight and membership fees related to future astronauts.

GAAP total operating expenses of $106 million, compared to $141 million in the second quarter of 2023. Non-GAAP total operating expenses of $95 million in the second quarter of 2024, compared to $126 million in the second quarter of 2023.

Net loss of $94 million, compared to a $134 million net loss in the second quarter of 2023, with the improvement primarily driven by lower operating expenses.

Adjusted EBITDA totaled $(79) million, compared to $(116) million in the second quarter of 2023, primarily driven by lower operating expenses.

Net cash used in operating activities totaled $79 million, compared to $125 million in the second quarter of 2023.

Cash paid for capital expenditures totaled $34 million, compared to $10 million in the second quarter of 2023.

Free cash flow totaled $(114) million, compared to $(135) million in the second quarter of 2023.

Generated $64 million in gross proceeds through the issuance of 3.7 million shares of common stock as part of the Company's at-the-market offering programs.

Business Updates

Construction completed on final assembly facility in Phoenix, Arizona for Delta Class spaceships.

VSS Unity spaceflights delivered key engineering and operational data informing design of Delta Class production model spaceships.

Blended manifest of research and private astronauts on 'Galactic 07' mission generated an average of $900K revenue per seat.

Production schedule for the Delta Class spaceships remains on track for commercial service in 2026.

Refer to the Company's investor relations website for a video overview of the 'Virgin Galactic Business Model.' https://investors.virgingalactic.

Financial Guidance

The following forward-looking statements reflect our expectations for the third quarter of 2024 as of August 7, 2024 and are subject to substantial uncertainty. Our results are based on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable as of this date, but may be materially affected by many factors, as discussed below in "Forward-Looking Statements."

Free cash flow for the third quarter of 2024 is expected to be in the range of $(115) million to $(125) million.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to the Company's results prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP), the Company is also providing certain non-GAAP financial measures. A discussion regarding the use of non-GAAP financial measures and a reconciliation of such measures to the most directly comparable GAAP information is presented later in this press release.

Conference Call Information

Virgin Galactic will host a conference call to discuss the results at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (5:00 p.m. Eastern Time) today. To access the conference call, parties should dial +1 800-715-9871 or +1 646-307-1963 and enter the conference ID number 9301433. The live audio webcast along with supplemental information will be accessible on the Company's Investor Relations website at https://investors.virgingalactic.com/events-and-presentations/. A recording of the webcast will also be available following the conference call.

About Virgin Galactic

Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. Scale and profitability are driven by next generation vehicles capable of bringing humans to space at an unprecedented frequency with an industry-leading cost structure. You can find more information at https://www.virgingalactic.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding our spaceflight systems, development, production and design of our Delta Class spaceships and proposed timeline for commercial service using such spaceships, and our objectives for future operations, growth plans and the Company's financial forecasts, including third quarter 2024 expected free cash flow, are forward-looking statements. The words "believe," "may," "will," "estimate," "potential," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "expect," "strategy," "future," "could," "would," "project," "plan," "target," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to any delay in future commercial flights of our spaceflight fleet, our ability to successfully develop and test our next generation vehicles, and the time and costs associated with doing so, our expected capital requirements and the availability of additional financing, and the other factors, risks and uncertainties included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 as well our subsequently filed reports on Form 10-Q and 8-K, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and the Investor Relations section of our website at www.virgingalactic.com, which could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. Any such forward-looking statements represent management's estimates as of the date of this press release. While we may elect to update such forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we disclaim any obligation to do so, even if subsequent events cause our views to change.

Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results

VIRGIN GALACTIC HOLDINGS, INC. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss (In thousands, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue $ 4,220 $ 1,871 $ 6,205 $ 2,263 Operating expenses: Spaceline operations 27,288 234 49,879 552 Research and development 41,535 86,574 100,504 196,444 Selling, general and administrative 33,931 51,437 61,815 101,802 Depreciation and amortization 3,256 3,192 6,955 6,437 Total operating expenses 106,010 141,437 219,153 305,235 Operating loss (101,790 ) (139,566 ) (212,948 ) (302,972 ) Interest income 11,108 8,404 23,416 15,734 Interest expense (3,230 ) (3,216 ) (6,457 ) (6,427 ) Other income, net 171 48 316 78 Loss before income taxes (93,741 ) (134,330 ) (195,673 ) (293,587 ) Income tax expense 34 34 114 162 Net loss (93,775 ) (134,364 ) (195,787 ) (293,749 ) Other comprehensive income (loss): Foreign currency translation adjustment 2 34 (6 ) 69 Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities (84 ) 1,885 (948 ) 4,986 Total comprehensive loss $ (93,857 ) $ (132,445 ) $ (196,741 ) $ (288,694 ) Net loss per share: Basic and diluted $ (4.36 ) $ (9.16 ) $ (9.43 ) $ (20.55 ) Weighted-average shares outstanding: Basic and diluted 21,484 14,661 20,752 14,294

VIRGIN GALACTIC HOLDINGS, INC. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (In thousands) June 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 182,310 $ 216,799 Restricted cash 32,518 36,793 Marketable securities, short-term 593,375 657,238 Other current assets 35,711 39,999 Total current assets 843,914 950,829 Marketable securities, long-term 12,536 71,596 Property, plant and equipment, net 144,455 93,806 Other non-current assets 61,563 63,286 Total assets $ 1,062,468 $ 1,179,517 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 37,705 $ 32,415 Customer deposits 87,726 97,841 Other current liabilities 53,780 55,404 Total current liabilities 179,211 185,660 Non-current liabilities: Convertible senior notes, net 418,995 417,886 Other non-current liabilities 69,435 70,495 Total liabilities 667,641 674,041 Stockholders' Equity Common stock 2 2 Additional paid-in capital 2,717,327 2,631,235 Accumulated deficit (2,321,919 ) (2,126,132 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (583 ) 371 Total stockholders' equity 394,827 505,476 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 1,062,468 $ 1,179,517

VIRGIN GALACTIC HOLDINGS, INC. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 Cash flows from operating activities: Net loss $ (195,787 ) $ (293,749 ) Stock-based compensation 16,480 24,835 Depreciation and amortization 6,955 6,437 Amortization of debt issuance costs 1,109 1,075 Other non-cash items (9,281 ) (2,020 ) Change in operating assets and liabilities: Other current and non-current assets 6,272 10,529 Accounts payable 5,017 7,644 Customer deposits (10,115 ) (2,535 ) Other current and non-current liabilities (13,011 ) (13,603 ) Net cash used in operating activities (192,361 ) (261,387 ) Cash flows from investing activities: Capital expenditures (47,487 ) (12,616 ) Purchases of marketable securities (348,833 ) (409,920 ) Proceeds from maturities and calls of marketable securities 479,398 471,287 Other investing activities 598 ? Net cash provided by investing activities 83,676 48,751 Cash flows from financing activities: Payments of finance lease obligations (108 ) (116 ) Proceeds from issuance of common stock 71,580 273,437 Withholding taxes paid on behalf of employees on net settled stock-based awards (870 ) (2,316 ) Transaction costs related to issuance of common stock (681 ) (2,961 ) Net cash provided by financing activities 69,921 268,044 Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (38,764 ) 55,408 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period 253,592 342,627 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period $ 214,828 $ 398,035 Cash and cash equivalents $ 182,310 $ 358,309 Restricted cash 32,518 39,726 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 214,828 $ 398,035

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release references certain financial measures that are not prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP), including non-GAAP total operating expenses, Adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow. The Company defines non-GAAP total operating expenses as total operating expenses other than stock-based compensation and depreciation and amortization. The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization and stock-based compensation. The Company defines free cash flow as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures. None of these non-GAAP financial measures is a substitute for or superior to measures prepared in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to any other measures derived in accordance with GAAP.

The Company believes that presenting these non-GAAP financial measures provides useful supplemental information to investors about the Company in understanding and evaluating its operating results, enhancing the overall understanding of its past performance and future prospects, and allowing for greater transparency with respect to key financial metrics used by its management in financial and operational-decision making. However, there are a number of limitations related to the use of non-GAAP measures and their nearest GAAP equivalents. For example, other companies may calculate non-GAAP measures differently, or may use other measures to calculate their financial performance, and therefore any non-GAAP measures the Company uses may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

A reconciliation of total operating expenses to non-GAAP total operating expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, is set forth below (in thousands):

Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Total operating expenses $ 106,010 $ 141,437 $ 219,153 $ 305,235 Stock-based compensation 8,236 11,859 16,480 24,835 Depreciation and amortization 3,256 3,192 6,955 6,437 Non-GAAP total operating expenses $ 94,518 $ 126,386 $ 195,718 $ 273,963

A reconciliation of net loss to Adjusted EBITDA for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, is set forth below (in thousands):

Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net loss $ (93,775 ) $ (134,364 ) $ (195,787 ) $ (293,749 ) Interest expense 3,230 3,216 6,457 6,427 Income tax expense 34 34 114 162 Depreciation and amortization 3,256 3,192 6,955 6,437 Stock-based compensation 8,236 11,859 16,480 24,835 Adjusted EBITDA $ (79,019 ) $ (116,063 ) $ (165,781 ) $ (255,888 )

The following table reconciles net cash used in operating activities to free cash flow for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 (in thousands):

Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net cash used in operating activities $ (79,132 ) $ (125,318 ) $ (192,361 ) $ (261,387 ) Capital expenditures (34,415 ) (9,849 ) (47,487 ) (12,616 ) Free cash flow $ (113,547 ) $ (135,167 ) $ (239,848 ) $ (274,003 )

The Company has not provided a reconciliation of forward-looking free cash flow to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures because such a reconciliation is not available without unreasonable efforts, due to the variability of these items and the fact that there is substantial uncertainty associated with predicting any future adjustments that we may make to our GAAP financial measures in calculating our non-GAAP financial measures.

7 august 2024 at 16:20

News published onand distributed by:
Enerflex Ltd. Reports Second Quarter 2024 Financial and Operational Results





RECORD ADJUSTED EBITDA OF $122 MILLION



ES AND EI BACKLOG STABLE AT $1.3 BILLION AND $1.6 BILLION, RESPECTIVELY, PROVIDING STRONG OPERATIONAL VISIBILITY

BANK-ADJUSTED NET DEBT-TO-EBITDA RATIO OF 2.2X AT THE END OF Q2/24, ON TRACK TO REACH LEVERAGE FRAMEWORK TARGET OF 1.5X TO 2.0X

FULL-YEAR 2024 CAPITAL SPENDING EXPECTED TO BE AT THE LOW END OF $90 TO $110 MILLION GUIDANCE RANGE

CALGARY, Alberta, Aug. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Enerflex Ltd. (TSX: EFX) (NYSE: EFXT) ("Enerflex" or the "Company") today reported its financial and operational results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024.

All amounts presented are in U.S. Dollars ("USD") unless otherwise stated.

Q2/24 FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW

Generated revenue of $614 million compared to $579 million in Q2/23 and $638 million in Q1/24. Higher revenue is primarily attributed to higher Engineered Systems ("ES") revenue from strong project execution and higher After-market Services ("AMS") revenue due to increased parts sales and customer maintenance activities.

Increased gross margin before depreciation and amortization to $173 million, or 28% of revenue, compared to $145 million, or 25% of revenue in Q2/23 and $119 million, or 19% of revenue during Q1/24. Energy Infrastructure ("EI") and AMS product lines generated 62% of consolidated gross margin before depreciation and amortization during Q2/2024. ES gross margin before depreciation and amortization increased to 19% in Q2/24 compared to 13% in Q2/23, benefitting from favorable product mix and strong project execution.

Adjusted earnings before finance costs, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization ("adjusted EBITDA") of $122 million compared to $107 million in Q2/23 and $69 million during Q1/24. The second quarter of 2024 represented a new quarterly record for Enerflex.

Cash provided by operating activities was $12 million, which included net working capital investment of $51 million primarily related to the execution of projects in the ES business line. This is a $13 million improvement over cash used in operating activities in Q2/23. Free cash flow was a use of cash of $6 million in Q2/24 compared to a source of cash of $78 million during Q1/24 and a use of cash of $20 million during Q2/23.

Invested $10 million in the business, including $1 million of growth capex for compression equipment that was deployed as part of a contract extension with an existing client partner in the Eastern Hemisphere.

Recorded ES bookings of $331 million to maintain total backlog at June 30, 2024 of $1.3 billion, providing strong visibility into future revenue generation and business activity levels. Bookings continue to originate primarily from North America with demand across multiple end markets, notably for cryogenic gas processing projects at the Broken Arrow facility that was part of the acquisition of Exterran Corporation ("Exterran").

Enerflex's U.S. contract compression business continues to perform well, with utilization of 94% across a fleet size of approximately 428,000 horsepower and revenue increasing due to improved rental pricing and fleet additions. This business generated revenue of $37 million and gross margin before depreciation and amortization of 65% during Q2/24 compared to $33 million and 64% during Q2/23. The fundamentals for contract compression in the U.S. remain strong, led by increasing natural gas production in the Permian.

During Q2/24, Enerflex provided its client partner with notice of Force Majeure, suspended activity at the site of a modularized cryogenic natural gas processing facility in Kurdistan and demobilized its personnel. Work at the site remains suspended and Enerflex continues to evaluate the situation in collaboration with its client partner and assesses next steps.

BALANCE SHEET AND LIQUIDITY

During Q2/24, Enerflex extended the maturity date of its secured revolving credit facility (the "RCF") by one year to October 13, 2026. Availability under the RCF was increased to $800 million from $700 million. In conjunction with the extension, Enerflex repaid $120 million of outstanding amounts under its higher cost secured term loan using cash on hand and availability under the expanded RCF.

Enerflex exited Q2/24 with net debt of $763 million, which included $126 million of cash and cash equivalents, and the Company maintained strong liquidity with access to $512 million under its credit facility.

Enerflex's bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio was approximately 2.2x at the end of Q2/24, consistent with the end of Q1/24 and below the 2.8x at the end of Q2/23.

Enerflex is targeting a bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 1.5x to 2.0x over the medium term. The leverage framework is underpinned by the highly utilized U.S. contract compression fleet, contracted international EI product line and the recurring nature of its AMS business. Enerflex's EI product line is supported by customer contracts, which are expected to generate approximately $1.6 billion of revenue during their current remaining terms.



MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY

"We are pleased to report another quarter of strong operational results that translated into a high watermark for adjusted EBITDA. I would like to thank the Enerflex team across our global operations for their efforts delivering these results," said Marc Rossiter, Enerflex's President and Chief Executive Officer. "The EI and AMS business lines continue to deliver solid and steady performance and ES results reflect favorable product mix and strong execution. Visibility across the Company's business remains strong, supported by approximately $1.6 billion of contracted revenue that will be recognized over the coming years from our EI assets. This will be supplemented by the recurring nature of our AMS business and a $1.3 billion ES backlog. Our focus remains on further enhancing the profitability of core operations, streamlining our geographic footprint, optimizing the capital intensity of our business and refining our external disclosures. These measures, combined with a focus on operational execution, is expected to enable continued debt reduction and enhance Enerflex's ability to focus on growth and returning capital to shareholders."

Preet Dhindsa, Enerflex's Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, stated, "We are encouraged by the strong operating performance of the global business and remain on track to reach our leverage framework target of 1.5x to 2.0x." Mr. Dhindsa continued, "As we continue to focus on our balance sheet health, we deployed modest growth capital during the first half of 2024 and will be allocating near-term capital only to customer supported opportunities that are expected to generate attractive returns and deliver value to Enerflex shareholders."

"The recent extension and expansion of our RCF is part of on-going efforts to reduce Enerflex's finance costs and optimize our debt stack. From a financial flexibility perspective, we remain well positioned, with our bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA leverage ratio exiting Q2/24 at 2.2x and the RCF providing ample liquidity to support our global business. Our target leverage framework provides a visible path for the Company to increase shareholder returns over time and in the near-term we are focused on generating free cash flow and repaying debt".

SUMMARY RESULTS

Three months ended

June 30,

Six months ended

June 30,

($ millions, except percentages) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue $ 614 $ 579 $ 1,252 $ 1,189 Gross margin 136 109 223 228 Selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") 75 66 153 144 Foreign exchange loss 3 8 4 16 Operating income 58 35 66 68 Earnings before finance costs, income taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") 103 83 150 163 Earnings before finance costs and income taxes ("EBIT") 55 36 58 69 Net earnings (loss) 5 (2 ) (13 ) 8 Cash provided by (used in) operating activities 12 (1 ) 113 (3 ) Key Financial Performance Indicators ("KPIs")1 Engineered Systems ("ES") bookings $ 331 $ 264 $ 751 $ 647 ES backlog 1,251 1,080 1,251 1,080 Gross margin as a percentage of revenue 22.1 % 18.8 % 17.8 % 19.2 % Gross margin before depreciation and amortization ("Gross margin before D&A") 173 145 292 301 Gross margin before D&A as a percentage of revenue 28.2 % 25.0 % 23.2 % 25.3 % Adjusted EBITDA 122 107 191 197 Free cash flow (6 ) (20 ) 72 (23 ) Long-term debt 889 1,064 889 1,064 Net debt 763 932 763 932 Bank-adjusted net debt to EBITDA ratio 2.2 2.8 2.2 2.8 Return on capital employed ("ROCE")2 1.7 % 1.0 % 1.7 % 1.0 %

1 These KPIs are non-IFRS measures. Further detail is provided in the "Non-IFRS Measures" section of the Company's MD&A.

2 Determined by using the trailing 12-month period.

Enerflex's interim consolidated financial statements and notes (the "financial statements") and Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") as at June 30, 2024, can be accessed on the Company's website at www.enerflex.com and under the Company's SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

OUTLOOK

Industry Update

Enerflex continues to see consistent demand across all business lines and geographic regions, including high utilization of EI assets and the AMS business line. Enerflex's EI product line is supported by customer contracts, which are expected to generate approximately $1.6 billion of revenue during their current terms.

Complementing Enerflex's recurring revenue businesses is the ES product line. ES results will be supported by a strong backlog of approximately $1.3 billion in projects as at June 30, 2024, with the majority of this work expected to convert to revenue over the next 12 months. Demand for ES products and services is driven by increases in natural gas, oil, and produced water volumes across Enerflex's global footprint and decarbonization activities.

Enerflex continues to actively monitor the near-term impact of weak natural gas prices on customer demand, notably in North America. Notwithstanding, the Company continues to benefit from activity in oil producing regions and with customers who maintain a positive medium-term view of natural gas fundamentals. The fundamentals for contract compression in the U.S. remain strong, led by increasing natural gas production in the Permian.

Capital Allocation

Enerflex continues to target a disciplined capital program in 2024, with total capital expenditures of $90 to $110 million. This includes a total of approximately $70 million for maintenance and PP&E capital expenditures. As a result of efforts to optimize capital spending, Enerflex expects full-year 2024 capital spending to be at the low end of its guidance range.

Providing meaningful returns to shareholders is a priority for Enerflex. Once the Company is operating within its target leverage range of bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 1.5x to 2.0x, Enerflex expects to re-evaluate capital allocation priorities, which could include increased dividends, share repurchases, additional growth capital spending, and/or further repayment of debt. Allocation decisions will be based on providing the most attractive shareholder returns and measured against Enerflex's ability to maintain balance sheet strength.

DIVIDEND DECLARATION

Enerflex is committed to paying a sustainable quarterly cash dividend to shareholders. The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of CAD$0.025 per share, payable on October 2, 2024, to shareholders of record on August 22, 2024.

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST DETAILS

Investors, analysts, members of the media, and other interested parties, are invited to participate in a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, August 8, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. (MDT), where members of senior management will discuss the Company's results. A question-and-answer period will follow.



To participate, register at https://register.vevent.com/register/BIf11ae800bdbc49e3ae8271e165e1e310 . Once registered, participants will receive the dial-in numbers and a unique PIN to enter the call. The audio webcast of the conference call will be available on the Enerflex website at www.enerflex.com under the Investors section or can be accessed directly at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/j3n23f36 .

NON-IFRS MEASURES

Throughout this news release and other materials disclosed by the Company, Enerflex employs certain measures to analyze its financial performance, financial position, and cash flows, including net debt-to-EBITDA ratio and bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio. These non-IFRS measures are not standardized financial measures under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar financial measures disclosed by other issuers. Accordingly, non-IFRS measures should not be considered more meaningful than generally accepted accounting principles measures as indicators of Enerflex's performance. Refer to "Non-IFRS Measures" of Enerflex's MD&A for the three months ended June 30, 2024, for information which is incorporated by reference into this news release and can be accessed on Enerflex's website at www.enerflex.com and under the Company's SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

Three months ended

June 30, 2024 ($ millions) Total North America Latin America Eastern Hemisphere EBIT $ 55 $ 50 $ - $ 5 Depreciation and amortization 48 18 17 13 EBITDA 103 68 17 18 Restructuring, transaction and integration costs 5 2 2 1 Share-based compensation 2 2 - - Impact of finance leases Upfront gain - - - - Principal repayments received 12 - - 12 Adjusted EBITDA $ 122 $ 72 $ 19 $ 31



Three months ended

June 30, 2023 ($ millions) Total North America Latin America Eastern Hemisphere EBIT $ 36 $ 27 $ 5 $ 4 Depreciation and amortization 47 17 10 20 EBITDA 83 44 15 24 Restructuring, transaction and integration costs 9 3 1 5 Share-based compensation 5 3 1 1 Impact of finance leases Upfront gain - - - - Principal repayments received 10 - 1 9 Adjusted EBITDA $ 107 $ 50 $ 18 $ 39





Six months ended

June 30, 2024 ($ millions) Total North America Latin America Eastern Hemisphere EBIT $ 58 $ 83 $ 5 $ (30 ) Depreciation and amortization 92 36 27 29 EBITDA 150 119 32 (1 ) Restructuring, transaction and integration costs 11 5 4 2 Share-based compensation 8 5 1 2 Impact of finance leases Upfront gain (3 ) - - (3 ) Principal repayments received 25 - - 25 Adjusted EBITDA $ 191 $ 129 $ 37 $ 25



Six months ended

June 30, 2023 ($ millions) Total North America Latin America Eastern Hemisphere EBIT $ 69 $ 48 $ 4 $ 17 Depreciation and amortization 94 32 22 40 EBITDA 163 80 26 57 Restructuring, transaction and integration costs 22 6 4 12 Share-based compensation 7 5 1 1 Impact of finance leases Upfront gain (13 ) - - (13 ) Principal repayments received 18 - 1 17 Adjusted EBITDA $ 197 $ 91 $ 32 $ 74



FREE CASH FLOW

The Company defines free cash flow as cash provided by (used in) operating activities, less maintenance capital expenditures, mandatory debt repayments, lease payments and dividends paid, with proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets added back. The following table reconciles free cash flow to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

Three months ended

June 30,

Six months ended

June 30, ($ millions) 2024 2023 2024 2023 Cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital and other $ 63 $ 53 $ 81 $ 103 Net change in working capital and other (51 ) (54 ) 32 (106 ) Cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 12 $ (1 ) $ 113 $ (3 ) Less: Maintenance capital and PP&E expenditures (9 ) (15 ) (18 ) (22 ) Mandatory debt repayments - - (10 ) - Lease payments (6 ) (4 ) (10 ) (8 ) Dividends (3 ) (3 ) (5 ) (5 ) Add: Proceeds on disposals of PP&E and EI assets - 3 2 15 Free cash flow $ (6 ) $ (20 ) $ 72 $ (23 )



BANK-ADJUSTED NET DEBT-TO-EBITDA RATIO

The Company defines net debt as short- and long-term debt less cash and cash equivalents at period end, which is then divided by EBITDA for the trailing 12 months. In assessing whether the Company is compliant with the financial covenants related to its debt instruments, certain adjustments are made to net debt and EBITDA to determine Enerflex's bank-adjusted net debt-to-EBITDA ratio. These adjustments and Enerflex's bank-adjusted net-debt -to EBITDA ratio are calculated in accordance with, and derived from, the Company's financing agreements.

GROSS MARGIN BEFORE DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION

Gross margin before depreciation and amortization is a non-IFRS measure defined as gross margin excluding the impact of depreciation and amortization. The historical costs of assets may differ if they were acquired through acquisition or constructed, resulting in differing depreciation. Gross margin before depreciation and amortization is useful to present operating performance of the business before the impact of depreciation and amortization that may not be comparable across assets.

ADVISORY REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" (and together with "forward-looking information", "forward-looking information and statements") within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking information and statements. The use of any of the words "future", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "could", "believe", "predict", "potential", "objective", and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking information and statements. In particular, this news release includes (without limitation) forward-looking information and statements pertaining to: expectations, and the timing associated therewith, of the Company reaching its leverage framework target of 1.5X to 2.0X; continued focus by the Company to enhance profitability of core operations, streamline its geographic footprint, optimize the capital intensity of the business, refine its external disclosures, and sustained operational execution, will facilitate continued debt reduction and enhance the Company's ability to focus on growth and to return capital to shareholders; that near-term capital deployment for customer supported opportunities will generate attractive returns and deliver value to Company shareholders; all disclosures under the heading "Outlook" including: (i) that demand across all business units and geographic regions will persist; (ii) the Company's expectations that, customer contracts which support the Energy Infrastructure product line, will generate $1.6 billion of revenue during their remaining terms; (iii) expectations that a majority of the $1.3 billion backlog will convert to revenue over the next 12 months; (iv) expectations for a disciplined 2024 capital program including total capital expenditures of between US$90 million to US$110 million (including a total of approximately US$70 million for maintenance and PP&E capital expenditures); and (v) expectations that full-year 2024 capital spending will be at the low end of the $90 - $110 million guidance range; expectations that the Company will reevaluate its capital allocation priorities, and the timing associated therewith, if at all; the ability of the Company to focus on generating free cash flow and repaying debt in the near-term and increasing shareholder returns over time, if at all; and the continuation by the Company of paying a sustainable quarterly cash dividend.

All forward-looking information and statements in this news release are subject to important risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, which may affect Enerflex's operations, including, without limitation: the impact of economic conditions; the markets in which Enerflex's products and services are used; general industry conditions; the ability to successfully continue to integrate Exterran and the timing and costs associated therewith; changes to, and introduction of new, governmental regulations, laws, and income taxes; increased competition; insufficient funds to support capital investments; availability of qualified personnel or management; political unrest and geopolitical conditions; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Enerflex. As a result of the foregoing, actual results, performance, or achievements of Enerflex could differ and such differences could be material from those expressed in, or implied by, these statements, including but not limited to: the ability of Enerflex to realize the anticipated benefits of, and synergies from, the acquisition of Exterran and the timing and quantum thereof; the interpretation and treatment of the transaction to acquire Exterran by applicable tax authorities; the ability to maintain desirable financial ratios; the ability to access various sources of debt and equity capital, generally, and on acceptable terms, if at all; the ability to utilize tax losses in the future; the ability to maintain relationships with partners and to successfully manage and operate the integrated business; risks associated with technology and equipment, including potential cyberattacks; the occurrence and continuation of unexpected events such as pandemics, severe weather events, war, terrorist threats, and the instability resulting therefrom; risks associated with existing and potential future lawsuits, shareholder proposals, and regulatory actions; and those factors referred to under the heading "Risk Factors" in: (i) Enerflex's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, (ii) Enerflex's management's discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023, and (iii) Enerflex's Management Information Circular dated March 15, 2024, each of the foregoing documents being accessible under the electronic profile of the Company on SEDAR+ and EDGAR at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar , respectively.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of assumptions and risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. The forward-looking information and statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and are based on the information available to the Company at such time and, other than as required by law, Enerflex disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information and statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. This news release and its contents should not be construed, under any circumstances, as investment, tax, or legal advice.

The outlook provided in this news release is based on assumptions about future events, including economic conditions and proposed courses of action, based on Management's assessment of the relevant information currently available. The outlook is based on the same assumptions and risk factors set forth above and is based on the Company's historical results of operations. The outlook set forth in this news release was approved by Management and the Board of Directors. Management believes that the prospective financial information set forth in this news release has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting Management's best estimates and judgments, and represents the Company's expected course of action in developing and executing its business strategy relating to its business operations. The prospective financial information set forth in this news release should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results. Actual results may vary, and such variance may be material.

ABOUT ENERFLEX

Enerflex is a premier integrated global provider of energy infrastructure and energy transition solutions, deploying natural gas, low-carbon, and treated water solutions ? from individual, modularized products and services to integrated custom solutions. With over 4,500 engineers, manufacturers, technicians, and innovators, Enerflex is bound together by a shared vision: Transforming Energy for a Sustainable Future. The Company remains committed to the future of natural gas and the critical role it plays, while focused on sustainability offerings to support the energy transition and growing decarbonization efforts.

Enerflex's common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "EFX" and on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "EFXT". For more information about Enerflex, visit www.enerflex.com .



For investor and media enquiries, contact:

Marc Rossiter

President and Chief Executive Officer

E-mail: [email protected]

Preet S. Dhindsa

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

E-mail: [email protected]

Jeff Fetterly

Vice President, Corporate Development and Investor Relations

E-mail: [email protected]

7 august 2024 at 17:05

News published onand distributed by:
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba attends a rally with US Secretary of State in Kyiv on May 15, 2024. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI / AFP

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba embarked on a tour of Africa for the fourth time in two years on Sunday, August 4. After visiting Malawi on Monday, he will visit Zambia and Mauritius next. The stated aim is the "development of bilateral relations" with African countries, according to the Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform, and involve them "in global efforts to restore a just peace for Ukraine and the world." This "African Strategy" is intended to counter Russia's growing influence, but Kyiv is struggling to implement it.

Just as Kuleba set foot in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, Mali announced the termination "with immediate effect" of diplomatic relations with Kyiv. The day before, Senegal, although not as close to Moscow as Bamako is, indicated that it had summoned the Ukrainian ambassador posted in Dakar. These reactions follow revelations of Ukrainian involvement in recent fighting in northern Mali.

Following the heavy defeat inflicted by separatist rebels on the Malian army and its Russian ally the Wagner Group at the end of July, Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov suggested on national television that Ukrainian services had played a role in the fighting. Eighty-four mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers were killed, according to the rebels  the first time this had happened since the Wagner Group arrived in Mali in 2021.

"That the rebels received the necessary data to successfully carry out an operation against Russian war criminals has been observed by the entire world. Of course, we will not disclose details. More information to come," Yusov said.

Provision of information

In the summer of 2023, Ukraine had already taken action on African military terrain by deploying a group of soldiers to Khartoum to fight the Moscow-allied general Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo's (widely known as "Hemedti") forces. In Mali, aid to the rebellion has consisted of intelligence and training in drone handling, Le Monde has found. For the Malian junta, however, this constitutes "blatant aggression" and "support for international terrorism"  accusations that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has firmly rejected.

Read more Subscribers only In Mali, the shadow of Ukraine behind rebels at war with Wagner's Russian mercenaries

On Monday, August 5, the ministry criticized Mali's "short-sighted and hasty" decision to break off diplomatic relations, which "ignored" the fact that "military structures controlled by the Kremlin, including 'Wagner', use terrorist methods and are directly involved in numerous war crimes, killings of civilians and ill-treatment of prisoners of war both in Ukraine and in African countries."

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A LIMERICK man convicted of the manslaughter of a PSNI officer who was apprehended by gardai earlier this year has consented to his extradition to Northern Ireland.

Christopher Shane Frane (36) was sentenced to a minimum of six years for the manslaughter of a police officer in 2013 after a car crash.

The sentencing judge also gave Frane, who is originally from west Limerick, an Indefinite Custodial Sentence that requires him to remain in prison until he can prove he is no longer a danger to the public.



Frane absconded from Northern Ireland on January 24 this year when on day-release and was arrested by gardai in February on foot of an extradition warrant.

The killer, who had argued that he was facing an "extreme and draconian" sentencing regime if he was sent back to prison in Northern Ireland, has now consented to his surrender, the High Court was told this Wednesday..



Frane had pleaded guilty to the 2013 manslaughter of Constable Philippa Reynolds. Ms Reynolds (27) was the back seat passenger in a police patrol car that was struck by a stolen Toyota Landcruiser driven by Frane in February 2013 in Derry. She was killed instantly.

READ ALSO: Road closure following collision in Limerick county

At the High Court this Wednesday, Frane took the stand to tell Mr Justice Paul Burns that he was now consenting to his surrender to Northern Ireland.



His barrister, Karen Quinlivan KC had previously argued, before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath in June, that to surrender her client would be a breach of his rights under the Constitution and Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

She said it had been accepted that Frane has shown genuine remorse and regret and has embraced opportunities for rehabilitation in prison.



However, before allowing Frane's release, the parole board in Northern Ireland must be satisfied that he no longer poses a risk to the community. This requirement, counsel said, sets an "almost impossible standard" for him to meet and despite his efforts he has not been cleared for release.

Ms Quinlivan pointed out that a judge of the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland has described Indefinite Custodial Sentences as "extreme and draconian" and urged lawmakers to reconsider them. She submitted it is a well-established principle that preventing risk to the public cannot be the only objective of sentencing.



A sentence requiring a person to prove they are no longer a risk to society would be unconstitutional in this jurisdiction, she said, and such a regime represents an egregious and fundamental defect in the sentencing regime in Northern Ireland.



A judgement had been due to be delivered in October but Frane will now be surrendered to authorities in Northern Ireland within 20 days.
AS SCORES of Limerick people headed to Kilkee to enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend, the Leader also travelled west to hear about what they love about the famous seaside town.

Caroline Hudner and her daughter Claudia, from Effin, have enjoyed spending their summer holidays in Kilkee for many years. Caroline said she has been visiting the town since she was small and when her father passed away she began taking her mother to Kilkee until she passed away three years ago. She has also introduced her children to her annual tradition of going to Kilkee for two weeks at the beginning of August.

Claudia lives in Abu Dhabi and was enjoying some relaxation in Kilkee. She remarked: When I come home, the first thing I want to do is come down to Kilkee and do the cliff walk with my mom.

The Limerick woman recounted a funny anecdotal story from her childhood which detailed how Caroline ensured that Claudia and her siblings wore swim hats so they could easily be spotted in the water.

Meanwhile, Aoibheann Daly (8) from Fedamore said she visits Kilkee every summer and spends her time catching fish, crabs and shrimp.

When asked about what she likes most about the seaside resort, Aoibheann cited the Pollock Holes. I like that you can just jump in and then you can just get wet.

Bernie Van Damme from Ennis Road has a big connection to Kilkee as her mother and grandmother were from the town. She said: I've been coming here since I was younger than six months old and originally travelled down in a basket on the West Clare railway, believe it or not.

Fun for all: The Murphy and Hogan families from Corbally enjoying their time in Kilkee Pictures: Adrian Butler

Bernie visits Kilkee every summer with her husband Thijs Van Damme and said their children have had magical summers there.

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Touching on the problem of there being few sunny days this summer, Bernie commented: Theres certainly fewer people than there would've been in other years, but now that the weather is good, I'd say the crowds will come and it'll get busier and busier but I think for a lot of people it's weather dependent. A lot of people will come for the day from Limerick if the weather is fine, but they won't bother if it's miserable.

Caoimhe Treacy from Clareview was having fun in Kilkee with her sisters Leah and Sophie. Ahead of getting in the water, she remarked: I feel good, but I'm just scared that it's going to be really cold.

Liza Blackwell from Cappamore is no stranger to the shores of Kilkee and has been holidaying there for the past 14 years. We love this spot here down by the Diamond Rocks. It's gorgeous and we love swimming in the Pollock Holes. More recently, she has enjoyed bringing her son Marcus Keane to the area and Liza said there are lovely walks and cafes in Kilkee. He loves coming down here to the sea, building sandcastles and going into the sea, and of course getting ice cream, she added.

Despite the popularity of the town, Kilkee native and well-known fisherman, lifeguard and diver, Manuel Di Lucia, said it has been quieter this year and that weather dictates your season.

He explained: Without the Limerick people, Kilkee would close up, and that is a fact. If you're looking around here now, I'd say 80 to 90% of the people here are all from Limerick and a lot of them have their own mobile homes and they have their holiday homes, which is a good thing because if the weather changes, they can just drive home.

Manuel also cited rising costs as being detrimental to holiday resorts in the area along with a lack of availability in hotels due to occupancy by Ukrainians.
Communities and groups will come together in Limerick to celebrate the citys rich diversity of cultures this Saturday, August 10th. The Limerick Says Welcome event is organised by the Limerick Anti-Racism Network, and will take place from 12pm to 2pm at Harveys Quay, at the bottom of Bedford Row.

The event will be a family friendly event, with music and fun for all. Musicians and artists will perform and the public is invited to come along.

Organisers say the aim of the event is to highlight what is great about Limerick, and to show how everyone is welcome in the city regardless of their background or nationality. It will be an opportunity for people to share stories and to meet people from different parts of the world that they might not ordinarily meet.

Limerick has benefited greatly from migration over the years. Virtually every employment sector has been boosted by the skills and experience brought by people from abroad, including many parts of Asia and Africa, as well as Europe.

John Lannon, CEO of Limericks migrant support organisation Doras, said: Since our organisation was founded 24 years ago we have seen the positive changes that newcomers have brought to Limerick, as well as the challenges they face. Many migrants choose to come to the city or county voluntarily, while others who have escaped from war and persecution have also found sanctuary here. Over the years they have all become part of the rich fabric of Limericks economic and social landscape.

Organisers of Limerick Says Welcome say that the event is a reminder that everyone has the right to be treated equally, and with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, ethnicity, nationality, or class.

Limerick Anti-Racism Network is a broad network of individuals and groups. Its aim is to help overcome all forms of discrimination, including negative attitudes to others on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity.
LIMERICK-raised actress Ruth Negga has garnered much praise online for her appearance in the new hit TV thriller series, Presumed Innocent.

Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as protagonist Rusty Sabich, Oscar-nominated actress Ms Negga plays his wife, Barabara Sabich.

In the eight-episode series, Mr Gyllenhaal plays a chief deputy prosecutor suspected of a horrific murder that upends the Chicago Prosecuting Attorney's office.

Ms Negga, an only child, was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where she lived until she was four. She grew up in Dooradoyle and went to national school in Roxboro.

It is understood that she later spent part of her secondary school career at Scoil Carmel on O'Connell Avenue, before completing her drama studies at Trinity College Dublin.

READ MORE: Bunratty Castle to feature in Australian TV travel series

The full eight-episodes of Presumed Innocent are out now and people online have labelled Ms Neggas performance as wow.

One person posted to X (formerly Twitter), saying: No surprise at all Ruth Negga is absolutely crushing it, as she holds the weight of the shows emotions on her shoulders, balancing a deep sadness but tenacity that she exhibits so well as a performer.

Another person wrote about the Love/Hate actress: Ruth Negga is the best part of Presumed Innocent. An Oscar-nominated actress who deserves much bigger roles going forward, while someone else chimed in, saying Ruth Negga is incredible. What a performance!.

Presumed Innocent was also executively produced by Jake Gyllenhaal and is an Apple TV+ limited series.

Alongside Ms Negga in the star-studded cast includes Bill Camp (The Queen's Gambit), Elizabeth Marvel (House of Cards), Peter Sarsgaard (Dopesick) and O-T Fagbenle (The Handmaid's Tale).
Computer giant Dell has announced a major reorganisation of its sales division, resulting in layoffs as part of a strategy to modernise operations and focus on artificial intelligence. The company informed employees of these changes in an internal memo on August 6, outlining plans to centralise sales teams and create a new AI-focused sales unit, as per a report by Business Insider.

The precise number of employees affected has not been officially confirmed, but it is estimated that approximately 12,500 individuals, or about 10% of Dell's workforce, have been impacted, as per a Newsbyte report.

The memo, titled "Global Sales Modernization Update," was sent by senior executives Bill Scannell and John Byrne. It detailed the company's intentions to streamline management layers and reprioritise investments. The executives wrote, We are getting leaner. We're streamlining layers of management and reprioritizing where we invest, as quoted by BI.

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Livemint could not independently verify this news development.

While the exact number of job cuts was not disclosed, multiple employees from the sales division reported being laid off or knowing colleagues who were affected. According to these sources, the layoffs primarily impacted managers and senior managers, some with over two decades of experience at the company, as per BI.

One employee, speaking anonymously, told Business Insider, It was mostly managers, directors and VPs. They also hit marketing and operations. They combined organizations and also made the ratio higher for the managers. Now every manager has a minimum of 15 employees, as quoted by BI.

Another sales worker expressed frustration with the situation, stating, Several managers that have been here for a long time got let go. It just kind of shows you it doesn't matter how much effort you put into this job. As soon as it helps their bottom line, you're gone, as quoted by BI.

Also Read | Surats Kiran Gems halts production for 10 days amidst falling diamond demand

These layoffs are part of a larger trend at Dell, which has reduced its workforce from 130,000 to approximately 120,000 since February 2023. Some employees report a sense of job insecurity and limited growth opportunities within the company.

"Every six months we have layoffs," one employee said. There are no opportunities to move up. I have been looking for a new job outside of Dell for nine months, the employee told BI.

A Dell representative confirmed to Business Insider that the company is undergoing an "ongoing series of actions" to streamline operations. However, the company emphasised the potential benefits of these changes, with Scannell and Byrne concluding in their memo, "The destination is going to be worth it  it's about winning and winning big!"
A former Pfizer Inc. statistician was sentenced to nine months behind bars for making more than $200,000 by trading on confidential information before a key announcement about the drugmakers Covid-19 treatment Paxlovid.

Amit Dagar, convicted of securities fraud and conspiracy after a one-week trial in January, was sentenced Tuesday in federal court in Manhattan by US District Judge Andrew L. Carter Jr. Dagar was charged in June 2023 with trading ahead of a November 2021 announcement that Paxlovid had reduced hospitalizations and deaths in high-risk patients by 89%, which sent the shares surging. He had asked for a sentence of probation or home confinement.

The case is part of an effort by Manhattan US Attorney Damian Williams to crack down on corporate crime including insider trading. The charges were announced the same day as the case against a trio of investors accused of trading on secret information about the merger plans of Digital World Acquisition Corp., the blank check company that took Donald Trumps social media startup public.

Prosecutors said Dagar, 45, of Hillsborough, New Jersey, was a senior statistical program lead for a Paxlovid trial when he learned that the company had got the outcome and that a press release was scheduled for the next day. He bought short-dated, out-of-the-money call options in Pfizer stock later that day while tipping off a friend, who bought similar options and passed the information on to another acquaintance, the US said. The friend pleaded guilty in October to one count of securities fraud and was sentenced to three years probation.

The judge had initially intended to give Dagar a sentence ranging from a year and a day in prison to 18 months, but decided to impose a lower sentence due to his lack of a criminal record, his family circumstances and the possibility he will face deportation to his native India if he is incarcerated for a longer period. Carter also ordered Dagar to pay restitution of nearly $273,000.

Patrick Smith, a lawyer for Dagar, argued that Dagar had made a snap decision to trade and didnt solicit the inside information or ask followup questions about what the numbers meant.

Im begging you to give this guy a shot to stay here with his family, Smith said.

A tearful Dagar urged Carter to not punish his wife and 4-year-old daughter for his misconduct, saying he just wants to be there for them and that nothing else matters.

Im just filled with remorse, Dagar said. Ive lost everything.
Tata Motors, the country's biggest passenger electric vehicle (EV) maker, is taking the EV fight to rivals' camps by matching its EV prices with the prices of their competing conventional vehicles. The move is being seen as a strategy to boost the pull of the company's electric offerings amid a recent industry-wide slump in EV sales.

I would not say we have deliberately kept our prices lower than ICE because you would think that this is strategic pricing, it is not

The aggressive pricing is being driven by a relentless decrease in battery prices and Tata Motors' own cost optimization and localization efforts, along with the generous help of a lower GST (goods and services tax) tag on the cars compared to IC-engine models.

Also read | Five important points that show EVs are hitting their stride in India The carmaker's latest offering, the electric Curvv coupe SUV, is set to be the first salvo in this plan to offer a host of cars on an electric platform to move up the premium SUV curve, after having launched in a more affordable range earlier. Its cheapest EV, the Tiago EV, starts at 8 lakh.

The Curvv EV, launched on Wednesday, will be available in two battery pack options45kWh and 55kWhthe latter being the company's largest battery yet in an EV. Prices for the e-SUV start at 17.49 lakh and go up to 21.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

Positioning compelling alternatives While Tata Motors says its objective is to position the cars as a compelling alternative to similarly priced ICE vehicles in the mid-SUV segment like the Hyundai Creta, industry experts point to the possibility of the model cannibalizing sales of its own sibling in the portfolio, the compact SUV Nexon EV, even though the company clarifies the two models have different buyer profiles. (Tata uses on-road pricing of petrol automatic transmission models for comparison with its EVs; mid-sized SUVs attract an effective GST of 43%, while EVs attract a flat 5% GST irrespective of their size.)

Also read | The ICE age will last: The road to EV adoption looks bumpy However, Tata stops shy of calling the Curvv EV pricing strategic while emphasizing how it lies in the ballpark of the pricing for a gasoline-powered automatic. To be sure, many IC-engine models in the category are available much below the 17.49 lakh price tag for the Curvv EV.

I would not say we have deliberately kept our prices lower than ICE because you would think that this is strategic pricing, it is not," Shailesh Chandra, managing director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility said at the launch of the Curvv EV.

Pricing normal Chandra said the pricing for the SUV was normal considering the margin profile the company wants to earn.

This has been possible because cell prices have come down, we have used cell tech which along with our constant effort of bringing down the non-cell cost of the battery back through localization efforts has brought down the pack-level battery cost. This can later on be horizontally deployed, he added.

Also read | BMW is winning big in EVs this year but says adoption is slowing down Tata Motors will also launch an IC-engine version of the Curvv coupe, which will be built on its new ATLAS platform. It is yet to announce prices for the petrol and diesel-powered models. The Curvv SUV will further enhance the company's footprint in the SUV market, where its Punch & Nexon EVs are the best-selling models. We thought bringing in an SUV coupe in the crowded mid-SUV space will be clutter-breaking, Chandra said.

Price a barrier While price is one barrier to EV adoption, buyers lately have been staying away from EVs due to inadequate charging infrastructure and charge anxiety, and the long time taken to charge cars, Chandra added.

The Curvv EV can be charged to deliver a range of 150 km in 15 minutes with a fast charger of power output 70kW or more.

Also read | Ola Electrics IPO: charging ahead or running on empty?

Tata Motors says the steep fall in its EV sales in July and the first quarter of the fiscal took place on account of a significant pre-buy from the fleet segment, before FAME subsidies were withdrawn from the segment.
Mumbai was once the headquarters of aviation in India. Air India, Jet Airways, and Kingfisher Airlines - all had a swanky presence in Mumbai. Today, Akasa Air is the only one left in Mumbai. It completes two years of operations today, amidst the pandemic and delivery challenges from Boeing,

In May, Akasa Air overtook SpiceJet in domestic market share for the second time. The first time it happened was in June 2023, only to see a reversal two months down the line. A month after its first anniversary, it was hit by pilot issues leading to cancellations. Things compounded further because of the court case which the airline filed against the pilots. The news was silently buried as it faced backlash and the management has since said that it has enough and more pilots to cater to its needs. Things looked set for soaring for the airline with the airline even saying it would soon occupy the number two spot in Bengaluru, only to lose its spots from there on, as it focused on slots in Mumbai to expand its operations.

Also Read: Akasa Air warns of high air fares if seats not increased under bilateral rights

Akasa Air of today in terms of network is widely different from Akasa Air of June 2023, when it surpassed SpiceJet. Interestingly, some of its first routes like Mumbai-Chennai, Bengaluru-Chennai, Chennai-Kochi and Bengaluru-Kochi are either not operational any more or have a token presence. On the other hand, it has invested more and more into newer places like Pune, Goa or Mumbai.

Data obtained from Cirium - an aviation analytics company - exclusively for this article shows that Akasa Air has a wider presence in both Mumbai and Delhi today than what it was in June 2023, when it overtook SpiceJet. Mumbai is now 22 per cent of its operations as compared to 18 per cent in June 2023. Delhi has seen a big jump from 5 per cent to 11 per cent. While it harped on Tier II cities being its focus areas, Ahmedabad, Guwahati and Goa have lost out in this expansion with operations being smaller now than what they were in June 2023.

IndiGo the benchmark? Every time an airline starts in India, the benchmark remains IndiGo for the success that it has had. Akasa Air was the fastest private airline to fly internationally in the history of Indian aviation since privatisation, when it launched flights to Doha, about 600 days from starting operations, making the most of the 0/20 rule.

Also Read: Akasa Air orders over 300 CFM engines

The market was vastly different in 2006 when IndiGo started, versus what it is now. However, Akasa Air has 130+ daily flights across 24 destinations in two years; while IndiGo had less than 100 flights to 17 destinations when it completed two years in August 2008. The market has more than doubled since then and that means the 24 planes of Akasa Air may be a record in itself, but are a small portion of what was the case back in 2008. IndiGo had a market share of 10.3 per cent in August 2008. In June, Akasa Airs market share was 4.8 per cent. July data is awaited.

Luck in favour? Within a week of the flag-off, the death of Rakesh Jhunjhunwala - Akasa Airs lead investor - led to a blow to the airline. However, it did not have any impact on day-to-day operations. This unlucky start later, there have been two big factors which have helped the airline. The stunting of SpiceJet, which has not been able to grow due to one problem after another, and the demise of Go FIRST, which helped create capacity in Mumbai and gave the much-needed expansion for the airline at its home airport. Had it not been for Go FIRST, any meaningful expansion from Mumbai would have been possible only after the inauguration of Navi Mumbai airport.

The changing landscape in Indian aviation, with IndiGo embracing a new class, would well mean that Akasa Air becomes the only low-cost carrier (LCC) in Indian skies with a single class of service and a single type of aircraft. With the international sectors starting, the airline has slowly inched up its aircraft utilisation to over twelve and a half hours.

What next? Change has been the only constant for Akasa Air in the last two years, but are as many changes good? It will probably reflect only in the finances when they are public. An order which was promised before the end of 2023 came in 2024. Its fleet plan at the mercy of Boeings quality issues makes it stay away from any further guidance on expansion after talking about it vehemently in the past. Sample this: the airline announced Jeddah as its second destination and ended up adding two more before Jeddah, making it the fourth destination. There is quite a slip between the cup and the lip, which it possibly needs to get in order for the next year and more.
IndiGo, Indias largest carrier, announced the launch of IndiGoStretch business class on August 5 at an elaborate ceremony at Bharat Mandapamthe same venue that hosted the G20. The elaborate arrangements and venue selection were unlike those of a low-cost carrier, but the reason was also unlike IndiGos DNA.

In May, the airline announced that it would offer business class services on select business and busiest routes in the country by the end of this year.

Also Read: How business-class newbie IndiGo is recasting its mobile and website features The airline selected Recaros R5 as its seat of choice for the IndiGoStretch product, which goes live from November 14, 2024, between Delhi and Mumbai. These will be the A321neo aircraft with 12 business-class seats (three rows) and 208 economy-class seats, which also include some XL seats.

It may also be for this reason that IndiGo restructured its A320neo and A321neo deliveries. The airline had not taken a single delivery of the A321neo between October 2023 and May 2024. During the same period, IndiGo took delivery of 15 A320neo aircraft. It has taken delivery of seven A321neo since May 2024, while only five A320neo have joined its fleet since May this year.

With a separate sub-fleet of 45 aircraft between November 2024 and December 2025, the airline was preparing for a mix of additional planes, retiring older A320neo incidentally powered by Pratt & Whitney engines and preparing for growth.

Also Read: IndiGo Q1 results preview: Airline meets guidance on capacity; can it exceed record Q1FY24 profits? While booking is now open for six flights a day, IndiGo's CEO Pieter Elbers announced that this will slowly spread to 12 sectors among the metro cities.

The likely 12 sectors? India now has six metros: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

As per data shared by Cirium, an aviation analytics company, IndiGo has 2,282 weekly departures among these six cities. The Delhi-Mumbai-Delhi sector sees a maximum of 140 weekly flights each way, followed by 105 weekly flights each way between Delhi and Bengaluru as well as Mumbai and Bengaluru.

When these six city pairs are connected with each other, it leads to 15 city pairs. Which 12 would then would make it?

When the shortest sectors, such as Bengaluru-Hyderabad-Bengaluru, Bengaluru-Chennai-Bengaluru and Chennai-Hyderabad-Chennai, are removed, the count of 12 exactly matches what IndiGos CEO announced as the sectors where the airline will deploy the IndiGoStretch product.

Interestingly, with these three sectors removed, the total flight count drops to 1,890 weekly flights or 270 flights a day. IndiGo is currently deploying these aircraft at an average of six flights a day, which will change based on block time and sectors. Until then, at 270 flights a day and an average of six flights a day, it needs 45 aircraft, which is exactly the number it has announced, giving out indications of which these sectors will be.

Airline within an airline? The sub-fleet with different seats in both classes is akin to having a small airline within an airline with a different set of service levels and routes, taking away the flexibility of swapping planes from other sectors.

Yet at 45 planes, it will be nearly double what Akasa Air is today. However, a sub-fleet has operational headaches, like not being able to swap with another aircraft due to a lack of service levels being maintained, among other issues.

IndiGo may have left the single type of aircraft concept long ago, but with a single class, a swap in planes meant limited operational disruption, with certain rows of XL being impacted and the passenger count being a handful.

A disruption in case of this sub-fleet means either waiting for replacement aircraft or having to handle passengers in regular economy class. A robust SOP before the operation begins is the need of the hour, without which social media will be full of complaints, as is the case with rival airlines. This also opens up more questions like will the airline look at expansion to regional international destinations with the dual class product.

Also Read: IndiGo launches daily direct flights between Hyderabad and Bangkok By the time IndiGo deploys its 45 planes, Air India (with merged Vistara) would have double these numbers in a three-class configuration, competing for the same traffic on these 12 routes, among others.
New Delhi: India has urged a regional bloc that includes Bangladesh to consider reaching a preferential trade deal among its seven member nations before eventually finalising a free trade agreement.

A preferential trade agreement would require members of the trading bloc to give preferential access to certain products from other member countries despite the absence of an FTA.

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, or BIMSTEC, links five South Asian countriesBangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, India, and Sri Lankaand two Southeast Asian nationsMyanmar and Thailand.

While there is a burning desire among BIMSTEC members to pursue greater trade engagements and sign an FTA, it is important to examine and fast-track realistic possibilities, Indias commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday.

He suggested the creation of a BIMSTEC desk by its member countries to handhold investments and trade and to support tourism.

I think a serious effort to remove non-tariff barriers, trade barriers and adopting international norms on trade facilitation, e-commerce, and connectivity can help our countries progress faster, Goyal added, speaking at the first BIMSTEC business summit, held in New Delhi.

Countering China For India, the trading bloc serves as a platform for regional cooperation and connectivity, helping it engage with other Asian countries while countering China's influence.

Negotiations for a free trade agreement among BIMSTEC nations began in 2004 but havent been concluded as some of these countries already have trade agreements with other bloc members.

Despite the absence of an FTA, BIMSTEC members have had non-binding agreements focusing on trade, investment, technology, and tourism.

India hopes to strengthen trade and investment ties with its neighbours through BIMSTEC. An FTA, once finalised, could boost economic exchanges.

Goyal said BIMSTEC members should examine their current trading relations, adding that trade among the group has a long way to go to achieve its full potential.

There are relations that all seven countries share making us the right candidate to strengthen our supply chains and ensure trade is on fair terms among member countries, Goyal said. We could look at payment in local currencies within this region.

The Bangladesh crisis On the recent developments in Bangladesh, Goyal said the Indian government is deeply concerned about the evolving crisis in the South Asian country.

Protests in Bangladesh, initially started by students objecting to reservations in government jobs, escalated to a massive upheaval against the government, eventually leading to Sheikh Hasina resigning as prime minister and fleeing to India earlier this week.

In Dhaka, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed to head an interim government to tackle the countrys various issues.

India has always looked upon itself as a responsible nation which cares and looks after the interests of the Global South, Goyal said.
Indias geopolitical landscape is hobbled by significant political instability in several neighbouring countries, posing potential challenges for New Delhi.

Following the turmoil in Bangladesh, India needs to adopt a multifaceted diplomatic approach to balance its strategic interests while promoting regional stability and cooperation with its other neighbours, including Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.

The reasons for Indias strained relations with some of these countries in the past decade go beyond regional concerns or disputes, including economic disagreements, diplomatic missteps, and even non-regional factors.

Trade is a vital contributor to the strained relations. Several of these neighbours import daily essentials such as wheat, rice, fruits and vegetables, and electronic products from India.

India has a surplus trade balance with all these countries. But if the relations worsen or remain strained for long, trade may be affected, say analysts.

Mint explores the potential impact of regional instability on not just Indias trade but also internal security.

What are the immediate challenges for India?

Lets begin with the political crisis and civil unrest in Bangladesh, with which India shares a 4,096 km border, its longest with any of its neighbours. Although Bangladesh has announced an interim government headed by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, the riots havent abated.

If the situation continues, India may face the challenge of illegal migration from Bangladesh. As a developing nation and the most advanced among its neighbours, India might be able to create resources for such migrants. But it will be a significant challenge to identify antisocial elements who may enter in large numbers under the guise of migrants.

Also read | Look east: New threats from the Bangladesh coup

In its report on Indias Neighbourhood First Policy, the Union governments Standing Committee on External Affairs has stressed the need for improved security infrastructure at Indias borders to address the challenges of illegal migration and smuggling of weapons and drugs into the country.

The committee submitted its report in Parliament in July 2023.

What is Indias Neighbourhood First Policy?

Indias Neighbourhood First Policy is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing relations with its immediate neighbours, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, as well as Afghanistan and Maldives. The policy doesnt include China.

This policy was formally articulated shortly after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office two months earlier for a third successive term. It underscores Indias commitment to being a proactive regional partner, striving for a stable, prosperous, and interconnected South Asia.

The policy emphasises improving political, economic, and cultural ties to foster regional stability and economic integration. Key elements include enhancing trade and investment through bilateral agreements, collaborating on security matters to combat terrorism and cross-border crimes, and providing development assistance and humanitarian aid.

Also read | China's new reform agenda may create economic opportunities for India

It also promotes people-to-people contacts through cultural exchanges, tourism, and educational ties, while facilitating easier visa processes and improving connectivity through infrastructure projects like roads, railways, and ports.

Initiatives such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal initiative aim to enhance regional connectivity.

Energy cooperation is also a focus, with joint projects in renewable energy and hydropower.

But key challenges in ensuring the effectiveness of the policy include managing complex geopolitical tensions with Pakistan and China, and ensuring that Indias actions are perceived as mutually beneficial.

Whats the trade situation with Indias neighbours?

Indias trade with its seven immediate neighbours under the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) in 2023-24 presents a mixed yet insightful picture. Indias exports to these countries declined significantly from $28.03 billion in 2022-23 to $25.62 billion in 2023-24.

Imports also decreased, from $5.45 billion in FY2023 to $5.17 billion in FY2024.

The total trade value, combining both exports and imports, fell from $33.47 billion in FY2023 to $30.79 billion in FY2024. Indias trade surplus reduced from $22.58 billion to $20.45 billion.

Addressing trade barriers, strengthening bilateral relations, and enhancing competitive advantages are thus crucial to reversing the contraction in overall trade.

What other neighbourly challenges does India face?

After the Talibans takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, India has had to adopt a more cautious approach in its dealings with that government, which was not the case earlier.

Also, Nepal, traditionally a close associate of India, has recently voiced strong objections regarding several disputed areas, including Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura. Despite ongoing discussions through diplomatic channels, Nepal has claimed these territories as its own, leading to heightened tensions between the two countries.

Also read | Why India continues to aid Afghanistan despite Taliban rule

Another major worry is Bhutans approach to engaging China in settling its border disputes, which will have significant implications for regional security.

The geopolitical landscape of South Asia should not be viewed solely through the lens of the neighbouring countries internal political crises. It must also be considered in the light of Indias significantly enhanced global status in recent years.

The change in dynamics should also be seen from the perspective of India being consulted on many major world issues, as the global perception of India as a consequential power has grown. This is due to Indias astute and cautious foreign policy, its burgeoning economy, and its role in balancing power in Asia, particularly in relation to China.

Also read | What does India expect from Bhutans new government?
New Delhi: The government-backed bad bank, National Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd (NARCL), aims to take over 2 trillion worth of banks stressed or non-performing assets (NPAs) by FY26 after having achieved the 1-trillion mark in FY24, a senior finance ministry official told Mint.

As of July 2024, NARCL had acquired 18 accounts with outstanding loans of 62,000 crore, while resolution plans have been approved for two accounts worth almost 33,000 crore, said Vivek Joshi, secretary of the finance ministry's department of financial services.

Bad banks Bad banks are asset reconstruction companies that buy bad loans from commercial banks, manage them, sell them in the market and recover the money to liquidate the transferred assets.

"The Swiss challenge process is completed for an account worth 591 crore, and the process (the Swiss challenge) has been initiated for six accounts worth about 30,000 crore," Joshi said.

Also Read: India's bad bank aims at  2 trillion stressed assets by September "Due diligence is underway for 13 accounts worth about 36,000 crore," he added.

The Swiss Challenge method allows private players and state-backed companies to accept contracts from the government through the process of bidding.

Under this process, auctioneers invite counter-bids, following a bid, to select the best one. The original bidder has the right of first refusal to match the best counterproposal.

The method is used by many states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab and Gujarat for roads and housing projects.

The plan to form a bad bank to clean up banks balance sheets was announced in the Union budget 2021-22 for taking up large loans of over 500 crore.

However, the formation of bad banks suffered delays after the Reserve Bank of India said it was unhappy with the proposed structure, which prompted lenders to present a revised proposal to the regulator.

Under the new structure approved by the regulator, NARCL will acquire and aggregate the bad loan accounts from banks, while India Debt Resolution Co. Ltd (IDRCL), another entity, will handle the resolution process under an exclusive arrangement.

Joshi said the central government will not recapitalise NARCL during 2024-25.

"It has already been recapitalised by the government (earlier). So, there are no plans to increase their capital (through government recapitalisation) in FY25," he added.

Also Read: Are bad banks a bad idea? At present, NARCL is in the process of resolving distressed loans related to several entities including Jaypee Infrastructure, Meenakshi Energy, Mittal Corporation, Rainbow Papers, Helios Photo, SSA International, Zion Panvel Tollway and Consolidated Construction, Coastal Energren, Rolta, McNally Bharat Engineering, Pioneer SAS Power, and Pink City Expressway, Haridwar Highway, SEW Krishnagar Baharampore Highways, Dharani Sugars, Madurai Tuticorin Expressway and Seya.

Speaking about the National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID), a specialized development finance institution supporting the infrastructure sector, Joshi said the government-backed entity is targeting to sanction loans worth 3.2 trillion in FY26.

He added that against a target of 2 trillion in FY25, NaBFID has already sanctioned 1.09 trillion by July 2024.

NaBFID has raised 25,516 crore during FY24 from the market to fund its operations.
The Ministry of Health on Wednesday rejected the reports claiming potential leakage of NEET-PG 2024 examination paper and termed it false and misleading.

Stating that all candidates are assured that the question papers for NEET-PG 2024 are yet to be prepared by NBEMS, the ministry said, Claims of paper leak made in social media platforms are bogus.

It has come to the notice of National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) that some unscrupulous agents are making false and bogus claims by dint of social media platform viz. Telegram Messenger. The cozeners are claiming to provide NEET-PG 2024 questions for the upcoming NEET-PG 2024 Examination in exchange for a considerable amount of money, said Health Ministry.

The Ministry further said, It is clarified that NBEMS has already registered a police complaint against such fraudsters and their accomplices for their attempt to befool NEET-PG aspirants in the name of providing questions of NEET-PG 2024 for a considerable sum of money.

The Ministry also warned that direct or indirect indulgence of anyone in any of such activities or publishing/spreading rumors without verifying the facts shall be appropriately dealt with by NBEMS.

What Health Ministy said? National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) denies such false claims made by Telegram channel titled NEET-PG LEAKED MATERIAL and cautions applicants for NEET-PG 2024 to not get allured/misled by such unscrupulous elements who are trying to befool them by claiming to have access to questions of upcoming NEET-PG 2024.

Also Read | NMC to scrap physical counselling so students cant give donations to colleges
What do violent protests, large-scale political violence, and the exit of prime minister Sheikh Hasina, mean for India, and relations with its eastern neighbour? The next few days may demand more patient diplomacy. Mint explains.

What triggered the political violence?

Bangladeshs first PM Sheikh Mujibur Rehman introduced a 30% quota in government jobs for freedom fighters after the 1971 liberation war. This was scrapped in 2018 by his daughter, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. It was reinstated by a court in June this yearto be scrapped again by the Supreme Court in July. In response to the protests, Hasina deployed the might of the state, calling protesting students Razakarsthose who sided with Pakistan during the liberation war. The quota was the trigger for violence, with anger already simmering against authoritarian streaks in Hasinas regime.

What are the broad implications for India?

India was the first to respond to a request by Hasina as she made an emergency exit from Dhaka, and landed at Hindon airport near Delhi. Amid a growing Chinese footprint in Asia, Bangladesh is key to Indias Neighbourhood First and Look East policies. It holds the key to its maritime and security architecture in the Bay of Bengal region. The regime change has potential implications in three core areas: connectivity, trade and infrastructure projects; counter-terrorism and violent extremism; and protection of religious minorities. In the long term, India will have to navigate its interests carefully.

Who are the new faces in Bangladesh?

An interim government is likely to have Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami as key members. The armys role still remains to be seen. Indias proximity to Awami League and Hasina means engaging with BNP and Jamaat will need patient diplomacy. Jamaat-e-Islami has not only pro-Pakistan leanings but also a radical extremist ideology.

Read more: Landslides: Why they are more frequent & lethal

How would the China-Pakistan factor play?

China will look at the political turmoil as an opportunity to ruffle Indian feathers. Pakistan will see Jamaat-e-Islami as spearheading its interests in Bangladesh, and also fan anti-India sentiment in the country, which works for both Pakistan and China. India will closely watch the Teesta river project, where it has competing interests with China, and any signs of violent extremism and radicalization, which pose a risk to Indias internal security. Further, theres no Hasina now to guard Indias interests.

Whither India-Bangladesh ties?

India needs to watch the interim government formation. While the Awami League has been a trusted ally, India will now have to engage with BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami and the military. Notably, India has stood behind Hasina in the wake of criticism by the US and UK. However, these two powers, as also the wider western world, share both of Indias concernsa rising China and the threats from violent extremism.

Shweta Singh is associate professor, department of international relations, South Asian University.
BEIJINGChina is imposing new restrictions on chemicals used in the production of fentanyl, a move long sought by the U.S. that signals Beijings desire to keep open an important diplomatic channel with Washington ahead of Novembers presidential election.

The status of the chemicals has proven a diplomatic sticking point for the past two and half years, and the latest move marks a small step forward in the Biden administrations strategy of seeking cooperation with China on counternarcotics even as the countries relationship is increasingly defined by competition.

China is one of the biggest sources of the chemicals used to produce fentanyl, which are sold to cartels in Mexico that make the highly potent narcotic and traffic it into the U.S. Nearly 75,000 people in the U.S. are estimated to have died last year from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, representing the vast majority of all overdose deaths in the country.

Beginning Sept. 1, Chinese authorities will impose stricter oversight over the production and sale of three such chemicals, including requiring exporters to obtain a license, according to a government notice posted online Monday. The chemicalsknown as 4-AP, 1-boc-4-AP and norfentanylwere blacklisted by the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs in March 2022, requiring China to take corresponding steps domestically.

Beijings reluctance to do so was viewed by many counternarcotics experts as the Chinese government exerting a point of leverage over the U.S. as bilateral relations soured. The situation only began to improve after a summit in California last November, during which President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to launch a joint counternarcotics working group.

In the months since the summit, some U.S. officials sought a more robust response from China to prove that it was serious about working together. One point of contention has been that the U.S. wants China to criminally prosecute producers of precursors who actively work with the Mexican cartels. China has resisted, at times telling the U.S. that these people werent breaking Chinese law because the chemicals hadnt been restricted by China.

While the latest move by China helps resolve that legal roadblock, experts say its effectiveness in disrupting fentanyl supply chains will be limited. As governments have moved to control more chemical precursors, unregulated alternatives are constantly emerging.

Drug-trafficking networks and Chinese chemists have shown a great deal of adaptability," said Vanda Felbab-Brown, a counternarcotics expert at the Brookings Institution. Through its latest action, she said, China is going after relatively low-hanging fruit to try to signal to the U.S. that it wants to keep the door open to further cooperation.

The latest moves have been welcomed with cautious optimism by the White House. Other recent actions by Beijing include teaming up with U.S. law enforcement to arrest a suspect who Washington says was helping launder money for Mexicos Sinaloa cartel.

The recent diplomatic momentum faces uncertainty with three months until the election. On one side, Vice President Kamala Harris is relatively unknown in Beijing, though many expect her to adopt the broad strokes of Bidens playbook. On the other, former President Donald Trump promises a return to the intense focus on trade that was a hallmark of his first term and which he has previously used to pressure Beijing on fentanyl.

No matter who wins, experts expect China will use the issue of fentanyl to seek concessions from the U.S., whether in the form of lower tariffs, looser rules on technology sales to China or other issues on Beijings wish list. China says it believes it is doing the U.S. a favor by helping it fight the fentanyl crisis and it opposes the U.S. trying to make it a scapegoat.

Because the three newly restricted chemicals have few other uses besides making fentanyl, the regulations imposed by Beijing dont carry substantial costs for Chinas chemicals industry. From here, future breakthroughs become more complicated.

Many U.S. officials and experts say they would like to see China also impose strict know your customer" requirements on companies to verify that they are not doing business with the cartels. So far, Beijing has been resistant.

This should not be so hard for China to do," said Felbab-Brown. Yet the messaging from Beijing has been steady: Oh, it will be too costly for us to implement, so no thank you."

Clarence Leong contributed to this article.

Write to Brian Spegele at Brian.Spegele@wsj.com
Growing up, Irans aghazadehs, the children of the elite, chanted death to America each morning at school. But as soon as they had finished their education, they set off in search of the American dream. Iran touts its pivot to Russia and China, but the aghazadehs of the Islamic Republic still want to go West.

Among them are close relatives of two of the front-runners in Irans presidential election on June 28th, Ali Larijani and Mohammad Qalibaf. They have settled in Britain and Canada. The supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has several family members in Britain and France, including his nephew, Mahmoud Moradkhani. Grandchildren of the founder of the Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, have settled in Canada. According to one outraged former minister, 5,000 aghazadehs live in America, the Great Satan, alone.

How many go to bury the regime and how many to praise it is hard to gauge. Mr Khameneis nephew calls for the death of his uncle. By contrast, Maasumeh Ebtekar, who was a spokesperson for the students who seized the American embassy in 1979, says she moved to Canada to lambast her enemy better (and her son went to America). Some fill Irans Islamic centres in Western capitals and spread the Islamic Republics teachings. Others allegedly bust sanctions, for instance by setting up gambling websites to launder money. Still more move in search of knowledge. Mr Larijanis brother lectures in cyber-security at the Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland. Most come simply for the opportunities they lack at home. Freed from their parents scrutiny, they post scenes of their sybaritic lifestyles online.

They may yet become an election issue. The Guardian Council, a quango of clerics and lawyers, will vet all 80-odd candidates. Mr Qalibaf has strong regime credentials. Related to Mr Khamenei, he has commanded the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and was the chief of police and parliaments speaker. But he is dogged by stories that his son declared he had funds of $150,000 available to him in support of his application for permanent residency in Canada. (It was initially declined.)
The march of the de-influencers, or reverse influencers, is getting stronger and noisier. As the name suggests, these are people who post negative reviews of branded products on social media for consumers' benefit, potentially hitting companies' sales.

Despite the potential consequences of calling out big brands publicly, people like Adithya Nataraj (alias learnwithadithya), Deepak Thakran (deepakthkranfitness), Darshit Singh (darshitoncam), and Revant Himatsingka (Foodpharmer), continue to stick their necks out. And their tribe is increasing.

Experts say the industry is set to see a spike in both critical reviews as well as regulations aimed at keeping claims made by brands in check, as consumers increasingly switch to branded products.

Companies don't like it one bit, and have taken recourse to legal action several times. And regulators are tightening guidelines for both products and also to ensure that negative reviews are unbiased.

But consumers are loving it.

Driving engagement

A study by influencer marketing and intelligence platform Qoruz revealed that de-influencing trends drive 66.17% more engagement than content from regular influencers. The report also highlighted that the higher consumption of critical" and alternative content" is suggestive of the audience's craving for authenticity and transparency in influencer communications.

De-influencers call out products that don't live up to the hype, and people love them for that honesty," said Praanesh Bhuvaneswar, chief executive officer of Qoruz, adding that this trend is a game-changer for brands.

Also read | Sebi may rope in social media giants like Google to regulate finfluencers

Shankar Prasad, founder of Plum Goodness, which sells beauty and skin care products, said that there's no substitute to transparency, consistency across touch-points and, over time, humility and openness to suggestions. Hence, no matter where the feedback comes from, the brand is clear about what the right thing to do is," he said.

Another executive at a larger packaged foods company, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said influencers' growth poses a challenge to companies and can threaten businesses; however, companies have to learn better to deal with them. He said they also need to ensure transparency with their labelling and nutrition information.

According to Qoruz's Bhuvaneswar, brands have started to realise that consumers want transparency, and some brands are already tweaking their messages, redesigning packaging, and even changing up their products to better meet new expectations. It's not just about selling anymore, it's about building trust and having genuine conversations with customers," he said.

Who's doing what

Darshit Singh, a Gurugram-based food de-influencer who has over 27,500 followers on his Instagram handle @darshitoncam, has gained the trust of an audience that takes his recommendations seriously.

If I am recommending something, a lot of people believe me, so a lot of brands want to take the risk of collaborating with me even if they know that I will be honest in my review," he said, adding that he is often subject to hate comments online and has also faced threats to take down posts.

Also read | Private banks collaborate with social media influencers, but with caution

Singh has a day job as a content marketing executive, and so is able to pursues his social media career of reviewing popular food joints for their hygiene, quality and taste as a side gig, without being worried about earning money from it.

Nataraj and Thakran create health and fitness-related content, highlighting what is wrong" with packaged products based on the ingredients on the back of their labels.

Mint's queries to Nataraj and Thakran did not receive a response till press time.

Companies' displeasure

In the past, companies such as Mamaearth, Dabur India and Mondelez, have sent legal notices to influencers to take posts that were critical of their products. Queries sent to Mamaearth, Dabur and Mondelez went unanswered till press time.

Then, last year, Mondelez took legal action against health content-related de-influencer Revant Himatsingka alias Foodpharmer, who boasts 2.7 million followers on Instagram. Himatsingka's post against Bournvita, the company's health food drink brand, went viral, but he suspended the video after receiving a legal notice from Mondelez.

Also read | Sebi draws a line in the sand between influencers, educators

Earlier, I would delete my video when companies used to send me legal notices," Himatsingka, who has received six legal notices so far, told Mint. Now, I try to fight back as I understand they don't have factual grounds and are only trying to shut me up... I just want brands to be scared as well."

Mondelez eventually dismissed claims made by Himatsingka. Email queries sent to the company remained unanswered. While it's hard to ascertain whether Himatsingka's posts had a bearing on sales of health food drinks, over the past year, different regulators have taken action to curb sales of the "health drinks" category.

Balancing the playing field

On 10 April, the commerce and industry ministry's Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) advised e-commerce platforms to remove drinks and beverages categorized as health drinks from their platforms, citing a lack of standards and definition of health drinks under India's food laws.

meanwhile, the Advertising Standards Council of India, an advertising watchdog, is of the view that influencers who speak of health or financial benefits should disclose their qualifications. In effect, ASCI, too, wants to keep a tab on the quality of information being circulated online and ensure claims made by individuals are fair and unbiased.

Influencers, whether promoting or dissuading consumers about products, must adhere to the highest standards of accuracy and truthfulness," said Manisha Kapoor, secretary general of ASCI. Any claims made should be factually correct and substantiated."

Kapoor added that an influencer paid to speak against a competitor's brand could constitute a potential violation of the ASCI Code, especially if it is done without adequate disclosures and makes statements that are disparaging.

Also read | Why fashion loves influencers

Ensuring transparency and integrity in influencer marketing is crucial for maintaining consumer trust," she said. "In addition, influencers who speak of health or financial benefits are required to disclose their qualifications."

Marketing experts are of the view that regulatory action and content created by de-influencers run parallelly as regulators and industry bodies toughen their stand on packaged consumer goods companies.

The regulators moves are actually hand in glove as there is increased visibility among consumers after de-influencers highlight things that these brands are doing, and because there is heightened awareness, these regulators have to take action," said Karthik Iyer, a marketing consultant.
Regulators are investigating some of the biggest U.S. banks for their handling of customer funds on the peer-to-peer payments platform Zelle, which has been facing scrutiny over scams and fraudulent transactions.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau probe focuses on JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America and Wells Fargo, among other large banks, according to people familiar with the matter.

It is broad in nature and meant to examine how the banks respond when customers dispute transactions made through Zelle, the people said. JPMorgan disclosed in a filing Friday that it was responding to CFPB inquiries regarding Zelle; other large banks are expected to disclose contact with the CFPB soon.

Zelle, created in 2017 to compete with popular money-transfer services such as Venmo and Cash App, is owned by a consortium of seven of the largest U.S. banks including JPMorgan, Wells Fargo and Bank of America. The network now handles a larger dollar value of transactions than Venmo. But with the rapid growth came an increase in complaints that the banks werent doing enough to help retrieve money their customers were duped into sending.

Banks are required to refund customers for transactions they didnt authorize, but there isnt legal protection for customers who send the money themselves. Reversing erroneous transfers is usually impossible.

Part of the CFPBs probe focuses on whether banks are proactive enough in shutting down accounts controlled by scammers, the people familiar with the matter said. The CFPB is also examining the degree to which banks vet the identity and background of deposit-account customers who end up being bad actors.

Banks have said the majority of payments made through Zelle are legitimate and dont believe they could reasonably prevent all misconduct that happens through the service. Steps they have taken in recent years to protect customers include repeated warnings about sending money to strangers.

Since last summer, Zelle has required its member banks to reimburse customers for certain disputed transactions even when the victim authorized the payment, such as when scammers impersonate a government official or a customers bank.

JPMorgan in its Friday filing said the CFPB is preparing to either reach a settlement with the bank over its inquiries or bring legal action, and that the bank is prepared to go to court over the matter.

A JPMorgan spokesman said that the CFPB is fully aware we already go above and beyond what the law requires" and that the regulator should expect to be challenged to ensure their actions stay within the bounds of the law."

Wells Fargo has previously disclosed inquiries regarding Zelle from government authorities."

Early Warning, the network operator of Zelle, said in a statement that 99.95% of transactions are completed without reports of fraud or scams, thanks to the countermeasures it has in place.

Separately, some lawmakers have questioned whether Zelles owners are fulfilling their legal obligation to reimburse unauthorized fraudulent payments, such as when a customers phone is stolen and a payment is made without the customers involvement.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D., Conn.) said in a report last month that JPMorgan, Wells Fargo and Bank of America reimbursed about 38% of customers reporting unauthorized transactions in 2023, down from 62% in 2019. Blumenthal, in a letter to CFPB Director Rohit Chopra on Monday, urged the bureau to investigate and suggested the decline was because banks arent following the law.

Banks have said many of these complaints turn out to involve authorized payments and arent legally required to be reimbursed.

Write to AnnaMaria Andriotis at annamaria.andriotis@wsj.com, Alexander Saeedy at alexander.saeedy@wsj.com and Andrew Ackerman at andrew.ackerman@wsj.com
SEOULIt took just seconds for an underground South Korean residential parking lot to be engulfed in flames. The culprit: a Mercedes-Benz EQE electric vehicle that hadnt been charging.

The blaze incinerated dozens of cars nearby, scorched another 100 vehicles and forced hundreds of residents to emergency shelters as the buildings above the parking lot lost power and electricity. Nobody died, but the fire took eight hours to extinguish.

The blaze dominated national news in South Korea. Some organizations are pushing for EVs to be parked outdoors, residents are protesting and lawmakers are proposing new safety measures.

The consternation in South Koreahome to Hyundai Motor, Kia and top battery makers  represents the latest test of faith for an EV industry dogged by safety concerns. Internal-combustion-engine cars are more likely to catch fire than EVs, according to South Koreas national fire agency. But when EVs do burst into flames, the rechargeable lithium-ion batteries get hotter and the fire takes longer to stamp out.

In recent years, GM recalled tens of thousands of its Chevrolet Bolts in the U.S. over risk of battery fires. Hyundai pulled roughly 80,000 electric SUVs after roughly a dozen caught fire. Last September, a Nissan Leaf ignited while charging in Tennessee, and the fire required more than 45 times the water needed for a gas-powered car to be extinguished.

Automakers have grown more cautious about EV launches amid modest demand. Sales of fully electric models in the U.S. rose 6.8% through the first half of the year, according to Motor Intelligence data, a sharp deceleration from near 50% growth in 2023.

The perceived risk of EVs is particularly acute in tightly packed South Korea, a country roughly the size of Indiana with roughly 52 million people. Seoul, the capital city, has a significantly higher population density than New York or Tokyo. Roughly half of South Koreans live in the greater Seoul metropolitan area.

Outdoor residential parking lots are relatively uncommon. The nations ubiquitous high-rise apartments often feature underground parking, where firefighters must contend with restricted access.

The country had already been on edge about battery-related fires, following a blaze at a lithium-battery factory in late June that killed nearly two dozen people. The Mercedes EV blaze, in the port city of Incheon, occurred last week. Then, on Tuesday, a Kia EV6 caught fire in an apartment in a central South Korean town.

Mercedes-Benz said it would cooperate with local authorities to determine the cause of the fire, a local spokesman said. A Kia spokeswoman called the incident isolated and added the firm would work with authorities to determine what went wrong.

In recent days, LG Display recommended that employees at its main factory complex park their EVs outside. The countrys main international trade association, whose offices are located in central Seoul, said it would accelerate plans to relocate EV charging ports to its aboveground lot. One of the countrys largest telecommunications firms, KT, has held discussions about barring EVs from parking underground.

A South Korean lawmaker on Wednesday proposed requiring specialized fire extinguishers and equipment to be installed in areas at risk of EV battery fires. Some apartment complexes are proposing measures such as demanding EV owners sign a pledge to shoulder responsibility for any accidents.

After seeing an EV catch fire on the side of the highway earlier this year, Ha Won-jun, a 54-year-old film director in the South Korean city of Namyangju, proposed to his apartments residents group that the complexs EV charging stations be relocated above ground. The suggestion has gotten minimal uptake so far. But that may now change due to the high-profile EV fire.

Now I anticipate this to be pushed forward quickly," Ha said.

The relative ease in finding EV-designated parking spots in South Korea had been one reason why Choi Kyung-seok bought a Kia EV6 two months ago. He also likes the fuel-cost savings. I dont think the risk of fire will make us forgo EVs," said Choi, who keeps a fire blanket in his trunk.

Write to Jiyoung Sohn at jiyoung.sohn@wsj.com
Delhi/Mumbai: Top Indian metal and mining companies such as Tata Steel and Hindustan Zinc (HZL) are waiting to see how things unfold following the recent Supreme Court judgment that allowed states to tax minerals mined in their jurisdiction on top of central levies.

However, they are not averse to taking legal recourse if things get uncomfortable, their top executives told Mint.

Tata Steel will explore legal options regarding any dues that may arise if the Supreme Court rules that its judgment will be applicable retrospectively, while Hindustan Zinc (HZL) will also knock on the doors of the courts if any immoderate demands are raised.

On 25 July, a nine-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court upheld the rights of states to collect tax on mining activities and held that royalty paid to states on minerals does not qualify as tax. The apex court reserved its verdict on the retrospective applicability of the rule.

If the government (levies) anything which is not in the Constitution, then we can go to the court; but if it is (levying) something in line with the Supreme Court (judgment), it will be for everyone," said Sandeep Modi, CFO of HZL, adding that there is no material impact on the company from retrospective taxation.

To be sure, solicitor general Tushar Mehta said in the Supreme Court last Tuesday that such a verdict if applied retrospectively could impose a financial burden of 70,000-80,000 crore on public sector units (PSUs).

Also read | Mint Primer | Mining minerals: Could cement & steel get dearer?

Tata Steel has even noted contingent liabilities of 17,347 crore in its financial statements pending clarity on the matter, the company said in a regulatory disclosure on Friday.

There's no demand (raised against us). So, it's not necessary that we have to pay that amount. But we have to fight that now. So, there'll be a lot of litigation," T.V. Narendran, Tata Steels managing director, told Mint during a post-earnings call.

The company had in FY06 received demands amounting to 129 crore in terms of state levies on its mines in Odisha, and had challenged the constitutional validity of the levies in the High Court of Odisha. The High Court had held that the state does not have the authority to levy taxes on minerals. This judgment was challenged by the state of Odisha in the apex court.

Impact of the judgment

Industry experts believe that if the ruling is made retrospective, it would be difficult for companies to pass on the liability to end users. In some cases, the state taxes payable would be higher than the net worth of concerned companies, which could lead to bankruptcy.

At the same time, executives of Tata Steel and Hindustan Zinc said that even when levied prospectively, these costs would have a cascading effect on the industry and trickle down to consumers.

Most of these corporate entities are now sincerely hoping that the SC should levy this only prospectively," said S.R. Patnaik, partner (head - taxation) at law firm Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas.

If the SC decides this levy to be made retrospectively, it cannot be presumed to be unconstitutional because the SC is merely interpreting the constitution and according to its decision, the present constitution requires that the beneficiaries should be liable to pay royalty retrospectively," he added.

While companies are seeking legal counsel, experts are not very hopeful. As far as it concerns demands already made by the states, there is hardly any legal recourse for companies. In fact, some companies have already provisioned for it," said Aakash Bajaj, partner at law firm Khaitan & Co. Bajaj represented Lafarge India in the company's dispute with the state of Rajasthan over dues similar to the Tata Steel-Odisha case, and several other cases over the years on which the Supreme Court announced its judgment last month.

However, if states take an adventurous interpretation of the judgment and now raise demands, that can be challenged in the courts," he added.

The GST angle

Experts also fear that there could be an incidence of goods and services tax (GST) on the royalties being charged by states after the Supreme Court ruled that royalties are not a tax.

There are also questions relating to the demand for payment of GST on royalty, which had been stayed (we act on such matters in Karnataka) on the ground that royalty was a tax. If the judgment is made retrospective, demands for arrears of GST may arise," said Aditya Narayan, managing partner at Saakshya Law.

Also read | Supreme Court upholds states' power to tax minerals

There could be prolonged litigation and economic uncertainty, and the episode might even deter investments and strain companies financially, experts said.

Because of significant long-term impact, foreign investors would always want certainty in the interpretation of such provisions so that they do not have to deal with any similar situation in the near future," said Patnaik.

Neha Joshi in Mumbai contributed to this story.
The textiles sector is the largest employment provider in our country after agriculture. The textiles sector provides employment to more than 45 million people. The handloom sector in particular derives its importance from the fact that it provides employment to 3.5 million weavers and workers, mainly in rural and semi-rural areas. Out of 3.5 million, 2.5 million are women, which makes the handloom sector a major source of economic empowerment of women. Also, 70% of weavers and workers belong to SC, ST and OBC categories, making handloom sector an instrument of social empowerment.

We are celebrating 10th National Handloom Day on 7 August 2024. As all are aware, the Swadeshi movement was launched at a meeting held on 7 August 1905, at Town Hall, Kolkata. The movement, as part of our freedom struggle, had aimed to revive domestic products and production processes. To commemorate this historic occasion and to celebrate our handloom tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared 7th August as National Handloom Day in 2015. This event seeks to honour the handloom workers of India and provide impetus to the handloom sector.

The Prime Minister on 28 July 2024 highlighted the importance of the handloom sector in providing economic empowerment to rural women. He also drew attention to new startup enterprises which are using modern technology to encourage handloom products and sustainable fashion. He also urged citizens to popularize local handloom products and share them on social media with the hashtag #MyProductMyPride.

In the past few years, Indias handloom sector has emerged as a beacon of sustainability and slow fashion. Today, I want to emphasize the importance of prioritizing quality over quantity as we celebrate the resurgence of handloom and urge the people of India to maintain sustainable momentum in the handloom sector. Handloom weaving is a heritage craft that embodies the principles of slow, sustainable and ethical fashion.

With consistent government efforts over the past decade, there has been a noticeable transition from fast fashion to locally produced goods. Prime Minister Modi proudly wears Indian handloom fabrics and promotes them globally, and credit for its success goes to him to a large extent. Its time for more people to join the movement.

Beyond promoting sustainability, the handloom sector offers significant opportunities to empower women and marginalized communities, providing them with economic prospects and instilling pride in their craftsmanship. I acknowledge the vital role women play as spinners, dyers and weavers, in uplifting the sector, applauding their invaluable contributions. I fully recognize and respect the contributions of traditional communities and especially women across the country, without whom the handloom sector would face great disadvantage.

Treating them with dignity and respect is imperative to sustain and enhance their contributions. Moreover, many women-led cooperatives and self-help groups have emerged within the handloom sector. These organizations not only provide training and resources but also offer a support network that fosters solidarity and collective bargaining power. By coming together, women SHGs can negotiate better prices for their products, access larger markets, and advocate for fair wages and working conditions. Educational programs and initiatives aimed at improving weaving skills, design innovation, and entrepreneurial abilities further empower women. By mastering new techniques and exploring modern designs, women weavers can create high-quality products that appeal to contemporary markets, ensuring the sustainability of their craft.

Enhancing handlooms through value addition by embroidery and printing breathes new life into traditional textiles, creating unique and highly desirable products.

To commemorate National Handloom Day this year, I urge everyone to take two pledges today; one to take selfie in handloom product and share on social media; Secondly to take a pledge to incorporate handlooms into their wardrobes and daily lives.

It is crucial to prioritize quality, consistency and technology in the handloom industry. Handloom weaving can become more fascinating by introducing innovative materials and processes. Everyone should support regional craftspeople and traditional weaving communities and be mindful of their clothing purchases, which affect us, the people who made them, and the planet.

Embroidery, an intricate art form involving needlework, adds depth and character to handloom fabrics. By incorporating various techniques like zardozi, kantha and chikankari, artisans can transform simple handloom textiles into elaborate, one-of-a-kind pieces. This not only increases the aesthetic appeal but also the market value of the products, providing artisans with better economic opportunities. Combining these value addition techniques with handloom fabrics creates products that appeal to both traditional and contemporary markets. This fusion not only preserves and revitalizes age-old crafts but also promotes sustainable fashion by encouraging the use of handmade, eco-friendly textiles.

The integration of technology and innovation in the handloom industry holds great promise for alleviating the drudgery experienced by weavers, enhancing productivity, and preserving this traditional craft. Modern advancements can significantly ease the physical strain associated with handloom weaving, making the process more efficient and less labour-intensive. Additionally, computer-aided design (CAD) software enables weavers to experiment with intricate patterns and colour combinations before they start weaving. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors, leading to higher quality outputs. Digital platforms and e-commerce websites also provide weavers with access to wider markets, connecting them directly with consumers and reducing dependency on middlemen.

Every handloom piece is unique, woven with care and attention to detail, reflecting the dedication and craftsmanship of its maker. By choosing handloom products, we not only celebrate the beauty and diversity of traditional textiles but also contribute to the livelihoods of artisans, ensuring that their invaluable skills are passed down to future generations.

Putting a focus on handloom goods, fair trade, regional manufacturing, sustainability, and craftsmanship will help this movement grow and give handloom weavers their due.

By supporting the handloom industry, we not only preserve a rich cultural heritage but also champion the cause of womens empowerment and gender equality, and also achieve many of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.

Giriraj Singh is Union minister of textiles.
New Delhi/Mumbai: Steel prices in India have slipped to their lowest in more than three years, hurt by a global supply glut caused by a weak Chinese economy flooding the international markets with its excess production of the alloy, analysts said.

Steel prices have failed to recover after the general elections, contrary to industry expectations, and have continued their downtrend, potentially hurting profitability of domestic steelmakers. These companies are scrambling to rein in their costs to protect margins amidst a large capex cycle. Most large Indian steelmakers are adding capacity on expectations of demand growth led by New Delhis infrastructure and housing push.

Meanwhile, downstream industries that are consumers of steel, like real estate, automobiles and infrastructure, will continue to benefit from the lower input costs, they said.

Prices of benchmark hot-rolled coils (HRC) of steel averaged just under 52,300 per tonne in July, the lowest since December 2020, according to data from market research and consulting firm BigMint. The prices continue to fall and are trading at around 51,000 per tonne currently, the analysts said.

A significant slowdown in China's economy has led to a correction in global steel prices, with Chinese export prices hitting a four-year low," according to Dhruv Goel, the chief executive of BigMint.

China hosts half of the worlds annual 2-billion-tonne steelmaking capacity and until recently had a similar share of steel consumption too. But a weakness in Chinas real estate market has left Chinese manufacturers with overcapacity. They are selling this metal in India and elsewhere at a price below their production costs to keep their mills running, Indian steelmakers allege.

Chinese domestic demand is muted owing to weakness in its property sector," said Aditya Welekar, senior research analyst, Axis Securities.

There could be more pain in store, Welekar warned, if reports are to be believed that China is shifting its policy focus from real estate and infrastructure to consumption, technology and high-tech industries.

While we might be around the bottom for prices, given that Chinese mills are incurring losses at the current HRC rates, any significant price increase will likely depend on whether the Chinese government introduces a stimulus to boost domestic demand or cuts down its steel production," Welekar added.

A surge in imports

The lower prices of steel in international markets have led to a surge in imports from both Vietnam and China into the Indian market. According to provisional data for July 2024 from BigMint, India continued to remain a net importer of the alloy, importing 0.65 million tonnes during the month. Exports stood at 0.45 million tonnes.

The active presence of Chinese steel in the international market has made Indian steel exports uncompetitive in many regions, resulting in a substantial drop in export volumes," Goel pointed out. This has impacted the pricing dynamics in the Indian steel industry.

China has been exporting 8-10 million tonnes of steel every month this year, Welekar said.

The supply-demand dynamic in India is worsening as new domestic manufacturing capacity becomes operational.

"While steel prices have gone below December 2020 levels, input costs are considerably higher than what they were back then," said Ranjan Dhar, director and vice-president, sales & marketing, AM/NS India.

"This is not sustainable and will push steel companies into losses. The steel industry has come forward and front-loaded a large capex. But this investment needs to remain viable. If this situation persists, it will also have a ripple-effect on the government's employment-boosting efforts," he said.

However, what might be a bane for one is proving to be a boon for the other. Lower steel prices are likely to help the margins of consumer industries like automobiles and construction, experts said.

Softness in steel prices will improve the margins of auto and other industries that consume steel as raw materials," Welekar noted.

For instance, at leading commercial vehicles maker Ashok Leyland, material costs as a share of revenue declined by 1.5 percentage points sequentially during the April-June quarter at 72.2%.

"Steel prices remain softer, and our efforts on cost saving continue with even more vigour, Dheeraj Hinduja, the executive chair of Ashok Leyland, told analysts in a recent earnings call.

Input costs

But all is not lost, as experts believe that with falling prices of raw materials like coal and iron ore, Indian steel manufacturers might be able to limit the margin erosion. Prices of coking coal - a key input for steelmaking - are currently hovering around $216-220/ tonne in the second quarter (July-September), compared to an average $260/tonne in the first quarter of FY25.

Similarly, iron ore prices are also trading lower. On Wednesday, National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) cut iron ore fines and lumps prices by 600 and 500 per tonne, respectively, to 4,510 and 5,550. This is a second consecutive month of price cuts by the countrys leading miner, resulting in about 20% lower prices.

The fall in prices has been advantageous for Indian mills but not commensurate with the fall in steel prices," Weleker said.

The incremental benefit of lower iron ore prices will be limited for companies having captive mines, like Tata Steel.
Airbnb Inc. shares crashed over 15 per cent on Wednesday, August 7, recording their biggest intraday drop since the vacation rental company went public in December 2020. The record crash came after net profit fell 15 per cent in the second quarter from a year earlier, as low US demand and higher income taxes cut into the short-term rental giants bottom line even as bookings and revenue rose.

This, and a grim Q3 outlook, weighed on the stock today. Airbnb issued another disappointing outlook and warned of slowing demand from US vacationers. Airbnb became the latest online travel company after Booking to warn that it was experiencing shorter booking lead time globally, which refers to the number of days between the reservation date and actual arrival.

Airbnb Q2 Results The San Francisco-based company reported on Tuesday net income of $555 million, or 86 cents per share, for the three months ended June 30.

That compares with net income of $650 million, or 98 cents per share, in the same quarter last year. Revenue rose 11 per cent to $2.75 billion. The vacation-rental platform booked 125.1 million nights and experiences in the second quarter, a nine per cent increase from the same period a year earlier.

Bookings rose 8.7 per cent in the second quarter to 125.1 million, falling well below analysts estimates. A shorter booking window can indicate consumers are booking travel at the last minute due to increased uncertainty and caution in spending.

Airbnb Q3 outlook Airbnb Chief Financial Officer Elinor Mertz said on a call with analysts on Tuesday that softness in long booking lead times was a big factor in its forecast.

Airbnb said it expects sequential moderation of booking growth in the third quarter, too, signalling that results will disappoint analysts who had projected an 11 per cent gain amid the peak summer travel season.

This is the third consecutive quarter that Airbnb has offered a downbeat forecast to investors. The latest bookings outlook sets it up for the slowest growth since 2020. Even as the pandemic retreats, headwinds have dogged the broader industry.

For its part, Airbnb said its seeing shorter booking lead times globally and some signs of slowing demand from US guests. The company added that Latin America and Asia Pacific remain its fastest-growing regions.

Airbnb forecasts revenue for the current quarter to be $3.67 billion to $3.73 billion, short of analysts consensus of $3.84 billion. The company cited its challenges with foreign currency exchange rates.

Airbnb 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 per cent and were the fifth quarter's fastest-growing segment in the region.

Chief Executive Officer Brian Chesky seemingly acknowledged the record share plunge in a post on X, the social media platform formerly Twitter. Im confident its a good time to buy, he wrote.

Chesky has said the company he co-founded in 2007 is ready to expand beyond its core offerings. He spent the past year refining Airbnbs product to make listings more reliable and affordable for guests and to encourage more people to sign up as hosts.
The surge in market volatility induced by global cues has spooked top brokers in India, with firms like Angel One, IIFL Securities and Geojit Financial Services taking steps to reduce any potential risk.

After assessing the spike in volatility across markets like Japan, South Korea and the US, Angel One has temporarily stopped financing fresh share purchases effective Tuesday under the so-called margin trading facility (MTF).

On the other hand, IIFL Securities and Geojit Financial Services have doubled margins for clients using MTF.

Mint has seen an email sent by Angel One to a client citing market volatility for virtually halting the facility. Due to market volatility, there will be 100% margin for Margin Product effective 06-Aug-2024 till further notice to safeguard clients interest..."

A company spokesperson declined to elaborate as the listed company is in a silent period until 9 August.

Industry-wide practice

MTF is an industrywide practice. Shares worth 75,548.5 crore were financed by brokers as of 2 August, NSE data shows. A client, who puts up a margin of 20-40% , pays 12-18% interest to the broker to fund her shortfall. The tenor of the facility extends from a few weeks to a couple of months, say brokers.

Also read | As Sebi comes down hard on speculative trading, investors turn to other options

Part of risk management, the margin paid is calculated as per a Sebi formula consisting of value at risk margin (VAR) plus three to five times the extreme loss margin (ELM) stipulated for each stock.

VAR provides for a worst-case loss in a portfolio of assets if an unforeseen event occurs. ELM is an additional margin to provide for losses beyond those predicted by VAR.

Meanwhile, IIFL Finance has begun increasing margins in phases effective 1 August. A company spokesperson said that as per exchange directions in July, over a thousand stocks were to become ineligible for being pledged as margin effective 1 August.

Also read | F&O trading: Do retail investors really need Sebi's big brother oversight?

Amid the rise in volatility, we have increased the margin on the ineligible stocks to 40% from 20% earlier to give clients with large positions time to substitute the collateral," the spokesperson said, adding that the shortfall is met by IIFL so that it can be placed with the exchanges clearing corporation.

By November, we will be charging 100% margin on these stocks," the spokesperson added.

Increasing margins

Geojit Financial Services, too, has increased the margin to around 40% from 20% ahead of Mondays steep market fall, said Satish Menon, the company's executive director (business).

This is a risk management practice followed by brokers, especially during periods of high volatility," Menon said. It was done ahead of the 4 June election results, which saw Vix rise by almost 28% to 26.75 and even in the run up to the budget on 23 July as a matter of abundant caution."

Also read | The case for drowning the float in the T+0 era

A 40% margin reduces the leverage to 2.5 times from five times earlier. Leverage means controlling an asset by putting up a fraction or a part of its value. For instance , a margin of 20 for a share costing 100 affords a client five times leverage.

The India Vix, which measures volatility, surged 42% to 20.37 on Monday after the Nifty tanked 2.7% to 24,055.7 in response to a 12% fall in Nikkei and an 8% fall in Kospi on fears of a recession in the US and yen carry trade unwinding after Bank of Japan increased a short term policy rate to 0.25% from 0.1% on 31 July.

This forced global investors leveraged by yen loans to liquidate positions across markets leading to a worldwide rout in stocks.

Volatility is a measure of risk defined as deviation from the mean.
Penny stock BITS has emerged as a remarkable success story, delivering exceptional returns to its investors and demonstrating the potential for significant gains in the penny stock market. Despite the inherent risks, the stock's performance underscores the value it can generate for those willing to navigate this volatile segment.

Over the past year, BITS has achieved a remarkable increase of 1,935 percent from 0.34 in August 2023. In 2024 year-to-date, the stock has shown resilience with a gain of almost 305 percent 1.7 in December 2023, despite experiencing losses in three out of eight months. This extraordinary growth highlights its consistent value appreciation, solidifying its status as a highly lucrative investment opportunity within the penny stock segment.

In August, the stock rose 8 percent, continuing its upward momentum after an 85 percent jump in July. However, it did experience a 5 percent decline in June. Before that, it rallied 21 percent in May, following a 12.2 percent drop in April and a 6 percent fall in March. Earlier in the year, February saw a significant rally of 46.5 percent, after a massive 46 percent surge in January.

The stock reached its record high of 6.92 on August 7, soaring 2,206 percent from its 52-week low of 0.30 on August 28, 2023. This outstanding performance highlights BITS's ability to deliver substantial returns and maintain investor confidence amid market fluctuations.

Despite its exceptional performance, it's essential to highlight that the stock is currently under ESM: Stage II.

What is ESM? The Enhanced Surveillance Measure (ESM) is a regulatory framework established by the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in India to improve the monitoring and oversight of listed companies, ensuring investor protection and market integrity.

In Stage I of ESM, securities are traded under a trade-for-trade mechanism with a price band of either 5 percent or 2 percent.

In Stage II, trading is allowed on all trading days through periodic call auctions, also with trade-for-trade settlement and a 2 percent price band. Previously, trading in this stage was restricted to once a week.

About the Firm BITS Limited offers a wide range of educational services both in India and internationally. The company provides education in fields such as arts, commerce, science, computer software and hardware, business management, hotel management, engineering, and technical education. These services are offered through centers, institutes, colleges, and universities, including distance learning programs.

Additionally, BITS Limited offers corporate management training via classroom sessions and other methods, as well as trading, importing, and exporting various software solutions. Originally known as Bits India Ltd., the company changed its name to BITS Limited in October 2000. Incorporated in 1992, BITS Limited is based in Mumbai, India, and operates as a subsidiary of Vizwise Commerce Pvt. Ltd.

Earnings In the March quarter (Q4FY24), BITS reported a net profit of 3.11 lakh, massively rising from 1.52 lakh in the same period last year. Meanwhile, total revenue for the quarter stood at 24.6 lakh, rose 9.5 percent from 22.45 lakh a year earlier.

For the fiscal year 2023-24, the company achieved a net profit of 13.67 lakh surging multifold versus 0.96 lakh in FY23. Meanwhile, revenue for FY24 decreased to 102.88 lakh as compared to 108.59 lakh in the previous financial year.

Brokerage Views ICICI Direct is bullish on BITS, citing its strong momentum as a key factor, with the stock price consistently remaining above short, medium, and long-term moving averages. The company has a strong annual EPS growth, further solidifying its position as an attractive investment opportunity. It also hit its 52-week high in the previous session.

Meanwhile, its weakness, as per the brokerage, is its declining net cash flow. The company has not able to generate net cash.

Investing in penny stocks can be appealing due to the potential for high returns with relatively low initial investments. However, this market segment carries substantial risks. One major issue is liquidity; penny stocks typically have lower trading volumes compared to larger companies, resulting in more pronounced price fluctuations and increased volatility. Additionally, these stocks often face less stringent financial reporting standards and regulatory oversight, which can open the door to market manipulation and fraud.

To navigate this high-risk environment effectively, investors must conduct thorough research and apply robust risk management strategies. It's essential to understand the company's fundamentals, evaluate its market position, and closely examine its financial health. Maintaining a disciplined investment approach and setting realistic expectations are also crucial for mitigating potential losses. By being diligent and cautious, investors can better manage the uncertainties of penny stocks, thereby improving their chances of capitalizing on opportunities while protecting their investments from unnecessary risks.
Vedanta: The company reported a 36.5% increase in consolidated net profit to 3,606 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to 2,640 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations rose 5.6% to 35,239 crore. EBITDA increased by 47% YoY to 10,275 crore, with an EBITDA margin of 34%, up from 24% last year. Executive Director Arun Misra highlighted a 47% improvement in EBITDA and a 54% increase in PAT due to improved margins and cost reduction.

Tata Power: The company reported a consolidated net profit of 1,188.63 crore for Q1FY25, up 4% YoY from 1,140.97 crore, and a 13% sequential increase from 1,045.59 crore in Q4FY24. Revenue rose 13.6% to 17,293.62 crore from 15,213.29 crore last year. EBITDA jumped 11% to 3,350 crore from 3,005 crore. CEO Praveer Sinha highlighted all-time high PAT growth for the 19th consecutive quarter, with a clean and green installed capacity of 6.1 GW and another 5.3 GW under execution.

Raymond: The company reported a 26.7% increase in consolidated net profit from continuing operations to 57.04 crore for Q1FY25 from 45.02 crore last year. Revenue from continuing operations rose to 937.65 crore from 473.37 crore. The company completed the demerger of its lifestyle business into Raymond Lifestyle Ltd, with its listing expected in Q2. Chairman Gautam Hari Singhania highlighted expansion in real estate and promising aerospace business performance following the acquisition of MPPL.

PB Fintech: The parent company of PolicyBazaar, Paisabazaar and PB Partners, reported a net profit of 60 crore for Q1FY25, turning from a loss of 12 crore in the same period last year. Revenue rose to 1,010 crore, up 52% from 666 crore last year, driven by a 62% growth in online business premiums, particularly a 78% spike in health and life insurance segments. Total insurance premium for the quarter was 4,871 crore, with renewals and trial ARR at 559 crore, up from 418 crore last year.

Infosys: The Indian government is firm on its substantial tax demand to Infosys, the countrys second-largest IT services firm, with no relaxation considered. Infosys sought a ten-day extension to respond to the 32,000 crore tax demand related to services from overseas branches between July 2017 and FY22, equivalent to 85% of its revenue for the quarter ended June 30. Infosys stated that the demand for FY18, amounting to 38.98 billion, has been closed.

Gland Pharma: The company reported a 25.9% YoY decline in net profit to 143.8 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue up 16% to 1,401.7 crore. EBITDA was down 10% to 264.4 crore. The company plans to grow through acquisitions and new product launches despite challenges from the European holiday season and maintenance shutdowns.

Bosch: The company reported a 13.8% YoY increase in net profit to 465.4 crore for Q1 FY25, with revenue up 3.8% to 4,316.8 crore. EBITDA was up 11.1% to 519.7 crore, and EBITDA margin stood at 12%. Automotive segment's sales grew 4.1%, power solutions by 2.3%, mobility aftermarket by 8.1%, and beyond mobility by 5.8%, driven by consumer demand and market growth.

Lupin: The company reported a 77.2% YoY jump in net profit to 801.3 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue up 16.3% to 5,600.3 crore. EBITDA was up 22.9% to 1,240.9 crore. Lupin plans to grow consistently with significant investments in R&D and capital expenditure, despite a slight decline in share price post-results.

Reliance Industries: Reliance Jio announced the discontinuation of its 395 and 1,559 prepaid plans, popular for unlimited 5G data and extended validity, following a substantial tariff increase effective July 3, 2024. The 395 plan offered 84 days of validity, while the 1,559 plan provided 336 days, both with unlimited 5G data, the base plan will see a 22% increase from 155 to 189, with similar hikes across various plan categories, including the 1 GB per day plan rising from 209 to 249, and the 2 GB per day plan from 299 to 349.

Power Finance Corporation: The company posted a 20% rise in consolidated net profit to 7,182.06 crore for Q1FY25 from 5,982.14 crore last year. Total income rose to 24,736.68 crore from 21,017.81 crore. The board approved an interim dividend of 3.25 per equity share, with August 30, 2024, as the record date for eligibility, and payment by September 5, 2024.

IIFL Finance: The company reported a 23-crore loss for Q1FY25, down from a 151-crore profit last year. Revenue was flat at 1,012 crore, impacted by RBIs ban on gold loans, leading to a 35% reduction in its gold loan book to 6,265 crore. The company raised 1,271.83 crore through an equity rights issue to ensure financial stability.

Gujarat Gas: The company reported a 53% increase in consolidated net profit to 330 crore for Q1FY25 from 215 crore last year. Revenue rose 18% to 4,615 crore from 3,924 crore, driven by robust volume growth. The company added over 37,400 new domestic customers and 2,00,000 scmd volume from new industrial customers.

Canara Bank: The government has nominated Rohit Das as RBI nominee director on Canara Banks board, replacing R Kesavan, effective immediately. Das, with 26 years of experience, has worked in various central office departments in Mumbai, including Risk, External Investments and Operations, and Supervision. He was the senior supervisory manager for Kotak Group and IDFC Group.

PI Industries: The company reported a 17.2% YoY increase in net profit to 448.8 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue up 8.3% to 2,068.9 crore. EBITDA surged 24.7% to 583.2 crore, and EBITDA margin stood at 28.2%.

Cummins India: The company reported a 33% YoY jump in standalone net profit to 419.8 crore for Q1FY25, with revenue up 4.3% to 2,304.2 crore. EBITDA jumped 37.2% to 467.4 crore, and EBITDA margin stood at 20.3%. The board approved Shveta Arya as an additional director and managing director designate, effective August 8, 2024, and whole-time managing director from September 1, 2024.

Hindalco: The CBI is probing allegations of green clearance violations for coal mining in Odisha from 2000 to 2013, naming Hindalco Industries and then-MoEF Director T Chandini among the accused. Hindalco allegedly mined 3.045 million tonnes of excess coal, and Chandini allegedly misused her position to aid the company, with further environmental clearance granted in violation of prohibitions in critically polluted areas.

State Bank of India: The government has approved the appointment of Challa Sreenivasulu Setty as Chairman of SBI for a three-year term, effective August 28. Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh has been appointed as Managing Director. Currently, Setty is a Managing Director, and Singh is a Deputy Managing Director at SBI.

Tata Consumer Products: Kotak Mahindra Mutual Funds Equity Arbitrage Fund purchased 1,83,768 equity shares of the company, representing 0.02% of the paid-up equity, at an average price of 373.54 per share.

Suzlon Energy: The company will acquire a 76% stake in Renom Energy Services from the Sanjay Ghodawat Group in two or more tranches. The first tranche involves a 51% stake for 400 crore, and the second tranche will acquire an additional 25% stake within 18 months for 260 crore.

EIH: The company's consolidated Q1 net profit declined 8.8% YoY to 96.8 crore, compared to 106 crore in the year ago period. Revenue grew 5.7% to 526.5 crore, compared to 498.1 crore in the year ago period.

Fortis Healthcare: The company's consolidated Q1 net profit spiked 40.4% YoY to 173.98 crore, compared to 123.95 crore in the year ago period. Revenue increased 12.1% to 1,858.9 crore, compared to 1,657.4 crore in the year ago period.

Linde India: The company's consolidated Q1 net profit jumped 13.8% YoY to 113.7 crore, compared to 99.88 crore in the year ago period. Revenue fell 9.4% to 653.2 crore, compared to 721 crore in the year ago period.

Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals: The company's consolidated Q1 net profit zoomed 32.4% YoY to 448.3 crore, compared to 338.6 crore in the year ago period. Revenue declined 11.7% to 4,933.2 crore, compared to 5,589.3 crore in the year ago period.

Krsnaa Diagnostics: The company's Q1FY25 consolidated net profit increased 22.4% YoY to 17.9 crore, compared to 14.6 crore in the year ago period. Revenue grew 22% to 170.2 crore, compared to 139.6 crore in the year ago. The company's CEO Prashant Pandurangrao Deshmukh also resigned from his role.

Rain Industries: The company's consolidated loss stood at 44.9 crore, compared to a profit of 206.5 crore in the year ago period. Revenue fell 11.5% to 4,094.1 crore, compared to 4,627 crore in the year ago period.

Bata India: The company's Q1 consolidated net profit surged 62.8% YoY to 174 crore, compared to 106.9 crore in the year ago period. Revenue fell 1.4% to 944.6 crore, compared to 958.1 crore in the same period last year. The company also reported exceptional gains of 133.95 crore in the quarter.

Gulf Oil Lubricants India: The company's consolidated Q1 net profit jumped 24% YoY to 84.3 crore, compared to 68 crore in the year ago period. Revenue increased 10.1% to 894 crore, compared to 811.7 crore.

VIP Industries: The company's consolidated Q1 net profit dropped 93% YoY to 4.04 crore, compared to a net profit of 57.8 crore in the year ago period. Revenue rose 0.4% to 638.9 crore, compared to 636.1 crore in the year ago period.

Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals: Smallcap World Fund Inc bought a 1.64% stake in the company at an average price of 753.84 per share.

Zydus Wellness: Quant Mutual Fund bought a 1.68% stake in the company at an average price of 2,201.4 per share, while Threpsi Care LLP sold a 2.67% stake at the same average price.
A few days back, I stumbled upon an interesting extension for Google Chrome. Mobi Reader made my life easier by letting me read Mobi (a file extension used to store e-books) documents directly in Chrome or in a separate popup window. Citing books and going back to different pages for reference is now less of a hassle.

Chrome Extensions are not new. They were introduced to Chrome in 2009 and today there are over 200,000 extensions available on the Chrome Web Store, covering a wide range of use cases, from productivity tools to just-for-fun games. Extensions are small software programs that extend the browsers usability further by adding new features. But they are an interesting way to find the innovative work that many web developers do behind the scenes. More importantly, they are perfect for users who dont want to rely on multiple devices  an ebook reader, a smartphone or another tablet  to finish their tasks.

Also read: AI computers have arrived: Understanding the reset of Windows PCs For instance, one of my all-time favourite extensions is Save to Pocket, which Ive been using for years to save articles and web pages that I want to revisit later. Like Pocket, many of these extensions that follow also work on the likes of Apple Safari and can be synced with your mobile device.

Heres a look at 10 interesting extensions that can help you manage your work and tasks better.

Dark Reader: Many of us prefer reading web pages in dark mode, especially when browsing in low-light situations. Once installed, Dark Reader lets you toggle between dark mode and light mode for every website, by inverting bright colors, making them high contrast and easy to read at night. The toggle button works instantly without any delay. You can also adjust the contrast, brightness, sepia filter, dark mode, and font settings with Dark Reader. Another fun alternative to Dark Reader is an extension called Dark Mode.

Dark Reader lets you toggle between dark mode and light mode for every website.

Noisli: Remember when the pandemic lockdowns meant many of us were working from home? The one thing many users missed was the familiar noise of a working environment. On the other hand, there were some who wanted calm or focused sounds to get those tasks done. Noisli gives the user customizable background sounds to help focus while they work or study. You can choose from a variety of curated playlists  be it for productivity, relaxing, a noise blocker or random noises. The extension also has a timer to help you finish work in sessions. Some features on Noisli require paid add-ons. Another alternative to Noisli is Noiseplayer.

MightyText: Simple and easy to use, MightyText lets you send and receive SMS text messages on your PC and Mac with your phone number. MightyText works on Android. All you need to do is install the app on your phone, link your Google account and complete the setup. Once done, you need to sign in to MightyText on your desktop browser with the same Google account and the extension is good to go. This is a great tool for people who still believe in the usefulness of traditional text messaging.

OneTab: Im guilty of having one too many tabs open at any given time. Its a minimalist workers nightmare. Not only can too many open tabs feel cluttered but sometimes you might end up closing an important tab mistakenly. OneTab helps you organize and manage your tabs more effectively. Click on the OneTab icon and it compiles all your open tabs under a single tab with all the links. This also helps your browser work more smoothly. You can also export your tab lists as a web page or a file and import them. This is handy for transferring tab sessions between multiple devices or browsers.

Epub Reader: Like the Mobi Reader, EPub Reader lets you access epub (e-book file format for viewing online or offline documents) files on Chrome. You can right click on any ePub link and then choose the view ePub item from the context menu. Alternatively, you can open the popup window and then add the epub link in the top section of the window to view the document. For offline files, you can simply drag and drop the file to the designated area in the popup window to load the ePub document. You can also change the font style and size of the epub file with this extension to fit your reading preference.

Toggl Track: Toggl Track adds a timer into any web tool youre using and allows you to track how much time you spend on a particular task. Think of it as a productivity time tracker. Toggl Track works with more than 120 web tools  be it Notion, Gmail, Google Drive, Trello, and Evernote, among others. A similar extension is RescueTime.

Ghostery: This privacy-focused extension lets you block trackers and unwanted ads. It also removes those niggling cookie pop-ups that, as many of us will agree, hamper your user experience on a web page. Apart from its blocking capabilities, Ghostery also gives you detailed information on any website you visit, including the number of trackers, type and the company running them.

HTTPS Everywhere: This extension automatically redirects you to the HTTPS version of a website, ensuring that your browsing is safe and encrypted. According to the American company Cloudflare, websites using HTTPS are more trustworthy for users. Another interesting alternative to HTTPS Everywhere is Smart HTTPS.

GoFullPage screenshots every part of the page you are currently on and gives you a composite image at the end.

GoFullPage: How many times have you struggled to get a complete screenshot of a webpage? GoFullPage is a cool extension that lets you capture a composite screenshot of the page you are on with a single click. Once you install the extension and tap the icon, GoFullPage screenshots every part of the page you are currently on and gives you a composite image at the end. It also lets you download the screenshot in PDF or PNG formats.
Indias investment ecosystem is seeing rapid growth in both traditional and alternative avenues. The mutual fund industry, a major investment avenue for retail participants, has 59 trillion in assets under management as of June 2024. The alternative assets industry, comprising alternative investment funds and portfolio management services, grew at a CAGR of 26% between June 2019 and June 2024, with assets under management touching 13.74 trillion.

Given the enormous interest in the Indian markets and the large gap between the minimum ticket sizes of retail and alternative avenues, the Securities and Exchange Board of India has come up with an innovative proposal that aims to add breadth to Indias investment ecosystem.

Bridging the gap

The markets regulator has proposed a new asset class tailored to high-risk investors that offers access to innovative strategies such as long-short equity and inverse exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This asset class is designed to bridge the gap between mutual funds and PMS and provide greater flexibility. Sebis consultation paper on the new asset class and its structure is hugely promising and signifies India's readiness to embrace diverse investment products, styles and approaches.

Also read: Mint Quick Edit | Sebi's proposal of a hybrid asset class is worthy

According to the consultation paper, the new asset class is meant to cater to the growing number of affluent investors who are able and willing to take on more risk. The proposed minimum ticket size is 10 lakh  in the sweet spot between the 500 minimum ticket size for mutual fund SIPs, and the 50 lakh for PMS opportunities. The new asset class may be allowed to invest in derivatives for purposes beyond mere hedging and rebalancing. This would significantly expand the landscape for high-risk investors looking to explore advanced strategies and diversify their portfolios.

In a recent report, Goldman Sachs estimated that the number of affluent Indians  those who earn more than $10,000 or 8.37 lakh a year  would touch 100 million by 20273, bolstered by consistently strong economic growth and a stable monetary policy. About 60 million Indians currently meet this criteria, as against 24 million in 2015. While they represent just 4.1% of the total population, their numbers are growing every year.

Made to measure

This emerging affluent class is keen on high risk, high return investments and thus likely to explore Sebis proposed new asset class. While some will be put off by the 10 lakh minimum ticket size, it will attract those who might otherwise have turned to unauthorised and unregistered portfolio management services.

Also read: GIFT City regulator proposes lower PMS ticket size, opens door to retail funds

The new product will give such investors access to advanced strategies such as long-short equity and inverse ETFs, and at a lower ticket size those of PMS and AIFs. A long-short equity fund aims to deliver returns by taking both long and short positions in equity instruments  for example, a fund thats bullish on the financial sector and bearish on FMCG will be able to take long positions in the former and short positions in the latter. Inverse ETFs are designed to generate returns that are negatively correlated with the underlying index.

Also read: The crackdown on AIF abuse comes with some collateral damage

This new asset class is set to capitalise on the expected exponential growth in managed assets such as mutual funds, PMS, and AIFs over the next five to seven years. With the affluent class growing in both numbers and ambition, it could also act as a stepping stone for high-risk investors looking to eventually enter the arenas of AIFs and co-investing.

Nikunj Kedia is head of products at 360 ONE Wealth.
Q. I am a marketing executive working with a MNC in Noida. I have been investing in fixed deposits, gold and government bonds for the past 5 years. Many of my acquaintances have suggested that I should invest in equity through mutual funds. I intend to initially invest in Sensex tracking mutual funds. Can you please throw light on the pros and cons of investing in index mutual funds tracking the Sensex, its composition, and constituents? Mrityuanjay Agnihotri, Noida, Uttar Pradesh

The S&P BSE Sensex, commonly referred to as the Sensex, is the benchmark index of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). It serves as a barometer of the Indian economy. It consists of 30 of the largest and most actively traded stocks on the BSE. It is important as it provides a gauge of the overall market sentiment and economic trends. The Sensex is a float-adjusted, market capitalization-weighted index, reviewed semi-annually each year in the months of June and December.

History and Evolution The Sensex was introduced on January 1, 1986, making it the oldest index in India. The Sensex has undergone many methodological changes since its inception to represent the composition of the Indian stock market. The term "Sensex" itself is a portmanteau of "sensitive" and "index," coined by stock market analyst Deepak Mohoni in 1989.

Composition and Methodology The Sensex's constituents are selected based on a number of parameters, including listing on the BSE, large-to-mega-cap size, liquidity, revenue generation from core activities, and sector balance. The Sensex uses a free-float capitalisation method, which considers a company's float rather than its outstanding shares, excluding restricted stocks not readily available for trading, such as those held by promoters and under lock-in.

The top constituents of Sensex include Reliance Industries, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Infosys, and Larsen & Toubro. To calculate the value of the Sensex, the base year is 1978-79, and the base market capitalisation used was Rs. 2501.24 crore with a base value of 100, according to the BSE.

Selection criteria for the S&P BSE Sensex Let's deep dive into the selection parameters required to be part of the Sensex.

Listing on the BSE: In order to be considered for inclusion in the Sensex, a company must be listed on the BSE. The index is further derived from the constituents of the BSE 100.

Market Capitalisation: Companies are shortlisted on the basis of their market capitalisation. The size of a company is a crucial factor in determining its eligibility. Market capitalisation is a clear indicator of a company's size and stability, which is why it plays a significant role in the selection process.

Liquidity: The third parameter is that the stocks included in the Sensex should be liquid stocks, i.e., should be traded frequently and in large volumes. This ensures that the index remains a true reflection of the market's movements and can be easily referenced for investment decisions.

Derivative Linkage: The companies forming part of the Sensex should be traded in as derivatives too.

Listing History: In order to be eligible, the company must have a history of being listed on the BSE for a minimum of six months.

The selection criteria for the Sensex are designed to ensure that the Sensex remains a reliable and robust measure of Indias top 30 listed companies. By adhering to these criteria, the Sensex continues to serve as a critical tool for investors, analysts, and policymakers.

Sensex top constituents and their weightage Heavyweight constituents play an important role in the index movements and are often the focus of investors and market analysts. Let's deep dive into the composition of these top Sensex constituents by weight and understand their significance in the market.

What is weightage? The weightage of a company in the Sensex is essentially its value in percentage determined by the free-float market capitalization. A higher weightage of a company means that any price movement in that company will have a more significant impact on the index.

Top constituents of Sensex Reliance Industries Limited: With a weightage of over 12%, RIL is the biggest constituent of Sensex. RIL is in diverse industries from petrochemicals to telecommunications making it a critical component of the index.

Tata Consultancy Services: One of the largest IT sector companies in India., TCS has a weightage of approximately 9.7%. Its global footprint and innovative solutions contribute to its substantial influence on the Sensex movements.

HDFC Bank: As a leading private sector bank, HDFC commands a significant presence with a weightage of around 7%. Its weightage has been reduced over the years.

Bharti Airtel: Airtel is one of the largest telecom players in the country. Airtel currently has a weightage of 5.4%

ICICI Bank: ICICI Bank, the second largest Indian private bank with a weightage nearing 5.27%, reflects the robustness of the financial sector in the Sensex.

Sectoral composition of the Sensex The Sensex constituents are leaders in their respective sectors typically. At times there are multiple constituents from one sector. As of mid-2024, the banking sector holds the most substantial weight in the Sensex cumulatively, followed closely by IT and Oil & Gas sectors.

The dynamic nature of Sensex It's important to remember that the Sensex constituents are not set in stoneSensex composition changes along with the market. The weights of the index's constituents are checked on a bi-annual basis to ensure that it depicts the performance of its constituents accurately. This periodic review allows for the inclusion of companies showing significant growth and the exclusion of companies that no longer meet the criteria, keeping the index dynamic and current.

Investing in funds tracking the Sensex Sensex has risen by 19.39% in the past 1 year. In the past 5 years, it has risen by 109.4%. Investors can invest in index mutual funds tracking the Sensex in order to invest in the companies constituting the Sensex. Here are the top five index mutual funds (direct schemes) tracking the Sensex based on their AUM:

Name AUM (Rs. in cr) Expense Ratio 3 Year Return (CAGR) HDFC Index Fund - BSE Sensex Plan - Direct Plan 7365.3 0.2% 14.16% ICICI Prudential BSE Sensex Index Fund - Direct Plan 1,623.97 0.2% 14.12% Nippon India Index Fund - BSE Sensex Plan - Direct Plan 711.50 0.18% 14.21% Tata BSE Sensex Index Fund - Direct Plan 354.59 0.13% 14% SBI BSE Sensex Index Fund - Direct Plan 191.82 0.27% 20.92%

Source: AMFI website; all data calculated as of 6 July 2024.

Note:Past performance is not an indication of future returns.

Investing in an index fund that tracks the Sensex, the benchmark index of BSE in India can be a strategic move for many investors. These funds aim to replicate the performance of the Sensex by investing in the same stocks and similar proportions as the weightage of the constituents in Sensex. Below is a detailed brief on the advantages and disadvantages of investing in index funds tracking Sensex.

Advantages of investing in a Sensex-tracking index fund Diversification: Index funds tracking Sensex provide diversification across the 30 large and actively traded companies that constitute the Sensex. This diversification across various sectors and companies helps in diluting volatility from an individual stock.

Cost-effectiveness: Index funds typically have a lower expense ratio than active funds. Because of lower expense ratios compared to actively managed funds, index funds are a cost-effective way to invest in the stock market. They also eliminate the need for extensive research and active management, leading to lower fees.

Simplicity: Index funds are relatively straightforward to understand. Investors can gain exposure to the companies without the complexity associated with research and picking individual stocks.

Performance: Historically, the Sensex has shown remarkable growth, we have mentioned the past one-year performance and five-year performance above. The performance of Sensex reflects the robustness of the Indian economy. Index funds tracking the Sensex allow investors to take part in the growth journey of the Indian economy.

Disadvantages of investing in a Sensex-tracking index fund Market-cap bias: The Sensex is weighted by market capitalisation. This means larger companies will have a greater impact on the Sensexs performance. This can skew the index fund's holdings towards a few dominant stocks that have high weightage. This can potentially reduce the diversification benefits.

Investing in a Sensex-tracking index fund can be a wise choice for those looking for a passive investment strategy that offers diversification, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity. However, it's important to be aware of the limitations, such as market capitalisation bias. As with any investment, it's crucial to align the choice of an index fund with one's financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.

How are these funds taxed? The budget 2024 has introduced a revised tax capital gains structure for equity investments, including investment in equity mutual funds. The long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax rate for equity mutual funds has been increased from 10% to 12.5%, effective from July 23, 2024.

Additionally, the short-term capital gains (STCG) tax on equity mutual funds has been raised from 15% to 20%. These changes to the capital gains regime are expected to impact investor sentiment negatively in the short term but they may encourage more sustained, long-term investment in equity mutual funds.

Until 23 July 2024, long-term capital gains up to 1 lakh in a financial year were exempt from LTCG. Now, this limit has been extended to 1.25 lakh.

Taxation categories post-budget Under the new capital gains tax regime, mutual fund investments are now classified into two main categories:

Equity Mutual Funds: For funds with more than 65% equity holdings, the STCG tax is 20%, and the LTCG tax is 12.5%, with the long-term defined as holdings for more than one year.

Debt Mutual Funds: These funds are taxed at the marginal rate without any distinction between short-term and long-term investments, remaining unchanged from the previous year.

The Budget 2024 has undoubtedly altered the landscape for equity mutual fund taxation, impacting all equity mutual funds including those funds that track Sensex. There is a clear shift towards long-term investments. While the increased tax rates may initially impact the market sentiment negatively, the overall simplification of the tax structure and the benefits for long-term investors are significant as discussed above.

Conclusion The Sensex is not only an index that depicts the market performance but is also a symbol of India's economic progress. It represents the dynamic nature of the Indian stock market and continues to be an essential tool for investors looking to understand and navigate the complexities of financial investments in India.

Understanding the Sensex is crucial for anyone interested in the Indian stock market, whether they are seasoned investors or newcomers. It offers a window into the economic pulse of the nation and remains a key indicator of financial health and prosperity.

Disclaimer: Investing in mutual funds involves risks, including potential loss of principal. Please consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Former probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar challenged the Union Public Service Commission's (UPSC) decision to cancel her candidature by filing a petition with the Delhi High Court on Monday. The petition was presented before a bench led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and is scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday.

On July 31, the UPSC announced the cancellation of Khedkar's provisional candidature via a press statement. The commission found her guilty of cheating and forgery, leading to her disqualification from future exams and selections.

The UPSC stated that it has carefully considered the request of Puja Khedkar and in order to meet the ends of justice, she was granted time till 3:30 pm of 30th July, 2024 so as to enable her to submit the response to the show cause notice.

It was also categorically made clear to Puja Khedkar that it was last and final opportunity to her and no further extension in time would be allowed. It was also conveyed to her in unequivocal terms that if no response was received by the aforesaid date/time, the UPSC would take further action without entertaining any further reference from her. Despite extension in time allowed to her, she failed to submit her explanation within the prescribed time, stated UPSC.

The UPSC has examined the available records carefully and found her guilty of acting in contravention of the provisions of the CSE-2022 Rules. Her provisional candidature for the CSE-2022 has been cancelled and she has also been debarred permanently from all the future Examinations/Selections of the UPSC, press statement stated.

Recently Delhi Patiala House Court has dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of Puja Khedkar, and said the allegations against the accused Puja Khedkar are grave and serious which requires thorough investigation.

Custodial interrogation of the accused is required to unearth the whole conspiracy and to establish involvement of the other persons involved in conspiracy. In the present facts and circumstances, I am of the considered opinion that it is not a fit case to exercise discretionary powers of anticipatory bail in favour of the accused, said Additional Sessions Judge Devender Kumar Jangala.

Court noted that in the present case the applicant/accused has been charged for Commission of offence punishable under Section 420/468/471/120B IPC and 66D IT Act and 89/91 Rights of Persons with Disability Act, 2016. The applicant/accused has cheated the complainant by mis representation.

The investigating agency also needs to widen its scope of investigation. Hence the investigating agency is directed to conduct its investigation in all fairness to find out the candidates recommended in recent past (a) Who have illegally availed the attempts beyond permissible limits; (b) who have obtained the OBC(non creamy layer) benefit, despite not being entitled; (c) Who had obtained the benefits of persons with benchmark disability, despite being not entitled and (d) the investigating agency shall also find out whether some insider from the complainant side has also helped the applicant to attain her illegal goals, stated the court.

Puja Khedkar has recently applied for anticipatory bail in connection with a FIR lodged against her for allegedly "faking her identity to fraudulently avail attempts beyond the permissible limit" in the civil services examination. The FIR was registered by the Delhi Police based on a complaint from the UPSC against Puja Manorama Dilip Khedkar.
(Bloomberg) -- Gambian lawmakers have defeated an attempt to overturn a historic ban on female genital mutilation in a boost for the global century-old campaign against the practice.

The West African nation outlawed FGM in 2015, but growing pressure to reverse the ban on the procedure, which typically involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for cultural or religious reasons, led to the introduction of a bill to overturn it this year.

The amendment blocked by a majority of lawmakers Monday would have made FGM a matter of choice, according to the MP who had sponsored the bill, Almameh Gibba.

The Womens (Amendment) Bill, 2024, having gone through the consideration stage with all the clauses voted down, is hereby deemed rejected and negative, Speaker Fabakary Tombong Jatta told parliament Monday.

The consideration stage is the last legislative step a bill has to scale before it can be passed by parliament via a vote.

Historic Ban

Getting FGM criminalized in Gambia was a major milestone in the global campaign against the practice. Former president Yahya Jammeh, an Islamic fundamentalist who ruled the tiny West African nation for 22 years, banned FGM through an executive order in 2015.

With the pronouncement, Gambia became the first country in West Africa - one of the regions of the world where the practice is the most prevalent - to ban FGM since a global anti-FGM campaign kicked off in Egypt in the 1920s.

But in reality, the practice, which is deeply rooted in tradition that crosses ethnic and religious lines, has persisted. About eight in 10 women aged between 15 and 49 years in the country have undergone FGM, according to Gambias statistics agency.

Pressure against the ban grew after a court prosecuted the first-ever criminal FGM case last August. Mba Yasin Fatty, a 95-year-old cutter, was fined for attempting to mutilate eight girls between the ages of four months and one year old. The girls mothers were also fined.

By the time someone intervened, three of the eight infants had already been cut.

An Islamic cleric paid the fines to protest the womens conviction and Gibba introduced the bill to overturn the ban less than a month after the womens sentencing, with backing from Gambias Supreme Islamic Council.

Infant Victims

FGM, which was traditionally practiced as part of a coming-of-age ritual as girls reach puberty, has been performed on younger children in recent years to prevent them from resisting, according to the Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children, known as GAMCOTRAP.

The practice has costly health implications. The World Health Organization estimates that complications arising from FGM cost the Gambian health system $4.5 million in 2019, representing 11% of the governments spending on health that year.

Victims can suffer excessive bleeding to urinary problems and even death, according to the WHO. Delayed consequences could also include difficulty delivering children. FGM is widely considered a human rights violation.

Mondays parliamentary decision allayed fears that Gambia would be the first country to lift a ban on FGM. A similar attempt was made in Kenya, but a court upheld the ban there in 2021.

We will celebrate, said the executive director of GAMCOTRAP, Isatou Touray. Because the fact is, we have won.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
As Bangladesh's political landscape undergoes significant changes, Indian carriers, including Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo, are resuming flights to Dhaka and offering rescheduling waivers to accommodate affected passengers, newswire PTI reported on Wednesday.

Vistara and IndiGo will also operate their scheduled flights on Wednesday to Dhaka, which is witnessing a volatile situation amid protests.

Also Read | Vistara flight from Amritsar to Mumbai diverted to Ahmedabad due to bad weather

On Tuesday, Air India operated its evening flight to Dhaka, cancelling the morning flight.

Bangladesh has been witnessing dramatic developments in the last couple of days. Sheikh Hasina, who ruled the country with an iron fist for 15 years, resigned as 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.

Also Read | Bangladesh protest: IndiGo cancels all flights as 300 die in Dhaka protest

Sources said Air India will operate its scheduled two daily flights from Delhi to Dhaka on Wednesday. The airline is also likely to operate a special flight to bring people back from Dhaka.

The sources said Vistara and IndiGo will operate scheduled services in the capital of Bangladesh starting Wednesday.

Also Read | Adani Wilmar Share Price Live blog for 07 Aug 2024

As per schedule, Vistara operates daily flights from Mumbai and three weekly services from Delhi to Dhaka.

Both Vistara and IndiGo cancelled their Tuesday flights to the capital of Bangladesh.

Normally, IndiGo operates one daily flight from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to Dhaka and two daily services to the capital of Bangladesh from Kolkata.

On Tuesday evening, Air India said it will operate its evening flights AI237/238 on the Delhi-Dhaka-Delhi sector.

In a statement, the carrier also said that due to the prevailing situation, a one-time waiver on rescheduling is being offered to passengers having confirmed bookings on any of its flights to and from Dhaka between August 4 and 7.

The offer will be applicable for tickets booked on or before August 5.
Patanjali founder, Baba Ramdev on Tuesday, condemned the attacks on Hindu establishments in Bangladesh, after the student protests spiralled out of control leading to violence and forcing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign. He urged the Centre to do the utmost in its diplomatic capacity and protect Hindus in the neighbouring country.

In a self-made video, on Tuesday, Baba Ramdev said There should be no cruelty or atrocity on Hindus in Bangladesh. He said that the reported attacks on Hindu properties in Bangladesh were shameful and dangerous at the same time.

"The way fundamentalist forces are carrying out well-planned attacks on Hindu homes, temples, and businesses in Bangladesh is both shameful and dangerous," Ramdev told ANI.

Expressed concerns, he said that India needed to remain vigilant to protect the Hindus in its neighbouring state. "The entire country will have to stand with its minority Hindu brothers with full strength," he said, ANI reported.

Also Read | How a jobs protest toppled Bangladeshs iron lady

We helped create Bangladesh; if we can create Bangladesh, we must show our strength in protecting Hindus living there," the Patanjali founder said.

'Similar unrest in India' The yoga guru even alleged that some individuals in India were trying to create similar unrest In India, disguised under the issues of caste, religion, and reservation issues.

"It is unfortunate that some politicians, religious extremists, and certain YouTubers are attempting to create similar unrest in India in the name of caste, religion, reservation, and the Constitution, threatening the nation's unity and integrity. We must counter these efforts with strength," Ramdev told ANI.

Also Read | Look east: New threats from the Bangladesh coup

Urging the Indian government to stay vigilant, several former diplomats and experts have expressed concerns about the situation in Bangladesh. They have also warned of potential migration from Bangladesh and suspect foreign involvement in the violence that gripped the neighbouring country.
Bangladesh Protest: "Either shelter us in India or kill us right here. If we go back, they will also kill us", Bangladeshi refugees in the Uttar Dinajpur district of West Bengal have pleaded with the Border Security Forces (BSF). As over 500 refugees wait on no man's land seeking shelter in India amid Bangladesh protests, ghosts of partition past rekindle fear of more significant implications of the turmoil in South Asian nations.

Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh and fled Dhaka due to a grave crisis resulting from a student-led rebellion. The student protest started with the demand to reform job quotas for public sector companies in Bangladesh.

The Bangladesh protesters revelled in joy when Hasina resigned. However, reports of targeted violence against minorities, including Hindus and Awami League members, have now caused concern.

Also Read | India evacuates families and non-essential staff from Dhaka

Further, implications of Bangladesh's protests and turmoil have resulted in the dramatic escalation of a refugee crisis in borderlands.

A Bangla newspaper, Uttarbanga Sambad, reported that hundreds of refugees have turned up on the no-man's land near the Uttar Dinajpur border with Bangladesh and West Bengal. The report further added that refugees from strife-torn Bangladesh swam across the Nagar River to reach the no-man's land, seeking shelter in India.

BSF has been vigilant in refusing shelter and asking them to return.

The Uttarbanga Sambad reports that over 500 refugees, including older people and children stand with at the no-man's lands with one plea- Shelter from India. As India navigates the diplomatic throes of giving asylum to former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, the BSF has been aggressively turning the refugees away.

The report added, that on Monday night, Bangladesh protesters in the Baliadangi Upazila raided the Radhakrishna market and burnt down shops.

As Bangladesh pins its hopes on one of the nations most acclaimed intellectuals  Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus  to bring stability to a country scarred by coups and political upheaval, the deaths resulting from the turmoil refuse to cease.
Delhi Police apprehended a minor on Wednesday for allegedly stealing his mother's gold jewellery to buy an Apple iPhone and to finance the birthday party of his girlfriend in Najafgarh, South West Delhi.

The incident came to light after the minor's mother filed an FIR about a house theft by an unknown person. During the investigation, the police identified the teenager, a Class 9 student, as the culprit.

According to Delhi Police, the accused sold his mother's gold earring, gold ring, and gold chain to two different goldsmiths in the Kakrola area. He used the money to purchase an Apple iPhone for the girl, with whom he was allegedly in a relationship.

The police have arrested a goldsmith, identified as Kamal Verma (40 years), and recovered one gold ring and earring.

"On August 3, an incident of house theft was reported by a woman in which she reported the theft of two gold chains, one pair of gold earrings and one gold ring from her house on August 2, by unknown person between 8 am to 3 pm," PTI quoted Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh as saying.

During the investigation, the police noticed no suspicious activity near the house of the complainant in CCTV footage.

"CCTV footage of the crime scene was checked, but no suspicious activity was found near the house of the complainant at the time of the incident. The team further examined the neighbourhood for any clues but no one witnessed any suspicious activity during the said time," the DCP added.

The police then focused on the role of family members in the crime. Later, they noticed that the minor son of the woman had been missing since the crime. They started gathering information and questioned his school friends.

"Our team got to know that he (accused) had purchased a new iPhone worth 50,000. The team conducted many raids on his hideouts at Dharampura, Kakrola and Najafgarh, but everytime he managed to escape. On Tuesday, a tipoff was received that the juvenile will come to his home at about 6 pm, following which a trap was laid near the house," DCP Singh said.

During the search, an Apple iPhone mobile was recovered from the juveniles possession. Initially, the boy denied his involvement. However, he later confessed that he had sold the stolen gold to two goldsmiths.

"The juvenile said that he is a student of Class 9 and studying in a private school in Najafgarh. His father died due to illness and he did not have any interest in studies and scored average marks," the DCP said.
The Maharashtra government on Wednesday faced the wrath of Supreme Court for failing to pay compensation to the affected private party for acquired property.

The court has asked the state government to not take every order of the court in a casual manner.

Court made the remark while hearing a matter related to the construction of buildings in forest land in Maharashtra, and also asked the state government to clear the stand in terms of the questions asked in the last order on compensating the private party over loss of land.

Maharashtra government has funds for distributing freebies under 'Ladli Behna' and 'Ladka Bhau' schemes but not for paying money for the loss of land, reported PTI quoting the court.

The Maharashtra government has been given time till August 13 to file its response.

A bench of Justices B R Gavai, K V Viswanathan and Sandeep Mehta said that if the order is not complied with, the chief secretary shall be present in the court.

Also Read | Uddhav Thackeray dares PM Modi to stop atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh

What the state government claimed? The state government has claimed that the said piece of land was occupied by Armament Research Development Establishment Institute (ARDEI), which was a unit of the Centre's defence department. The government said subsequently another piece of land was allotted to the private party in lieu of the piece of land, which was in the possession of ARDEI. However, later it was found that the land allotted to the private party was notified as forest land, reported PTI.

Freebies schemes of Maharashtra govt 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana' Under the scheme announced by the state government earlier this year, 1,500 is slated to be transferred into the bank accounts of eligible women in the age group of 21 to 65 years whose family income was less than 2.5 lakh.
The Indian government on Monday announced visa-on-arrival for citizens of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE, for tourism, business, conferences, and medical purposes.

The facility is currently available at six airports: Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.

Only Japan, South Korea, and UAE nationals who had obtained an e-Visa, or a regular paper visa for India earlier, are eligible to receive the on-arrival visas. The visa will be valid for 60 days, and travellers will be able to visit India for up to two times during that period, the Indian visa portal informed.

Points to note about this visa While there are some specific rules for UAE nationals, certain regulations remain the same for all:

Also Read | British govt asks Elon Musk to act responsibly after his X posts on UK protests

1.This facility is not available to any person if he/she or either of his/her parents or grandparents (paternal or maternal) was born in Pakistan, or, is a permanent resident of Pakistan. Such individuals can visit India only on appropriate visa obtaining from concerned Indian Mission/Post.

2.The Visa-on-Arrival facility is not available to holders of Diplomatic/Official passports.

Also Read | Shockwaves from Japan had a message for investors in India

3.Visa-on-Arrival is non-extendable and non-convertible.

4.Japanese, South Korean and UAE nationals are required to fill out an application form (Annexure I) to avail the visa-on-arrival.

5. According to the instructions mentioned on the portal, the Indian government has advised the travellers to download the form, print it, fill it and present the same to the 'Visa Officer' at visa counter on arrival. They can also fill out the form on arrival.

6.The format of physical form will also be available from the airlines on board the flight. The Japanese, South Korean and UAE nationals would be required to carry duly filled 'VoA Application Form' along with duly filled disembarkation card.

UAE travellers to note Visa-on-Arrival Scheme is applicable for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India.

1.UAE nationals who are coming to India for the first time are advised to apply for e-Visa or regular/paper visa.

2.Pakistan Origin UAE nationals will not be eligible for Visa-on-Arrival Scheme.
The Manipur government on Wednesday imposed a night curfew in the bordering districts of Pherzawl and Jiribam to curb potential illegal immigration from Bangladesh, where massive protests escalated into violence leading to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation.

The District magistrates of Pherzawl and Jiribam districts in Manipur have issued the prohibitory orders.

Also Read | How Bangladesh unrest stirs CAA debate in India. 5 points

The Home Department's Joint Secretary issued a directive, wherein he said that due to the political unrest in Bangladesh, there was a likelihood of an influx of people from the neighbouring country, which shares borders with 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. The secretary further ordered the commissioners to ensure precautionary measures such as maintenance of strict vigil by district police and other security forces along the borders at all times, are followed.

The Deputy Commissioners of Pherzawl and Jiribam districts, have accordingly imposed the night curfew under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

In Pherzawl district, the restrictions will be relaxed from 8 am to 4 pm. In Jiribam, the relaxation will be given from 9 am to 3 pm, said the Manipur government, reported NDTV.

Manipur's borders with Bangladesh Although Manipur does not share international borders with Bangladesh directly, it has inter-state borders running through southern Assam, which shares borders with Bangladesh.



Another north eastern state, Meghalaya, which shares 445 km of border with Bangladesh, also imposed a night curfew on Monday.

Muhammed Yunus to lead Bangladesh government Following Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's exit, the Bangladesh army general, on Monday, called for a meeting of all political parties to form an interim government.

Nobel Peace Prize winner, and former Grameen Bank managing director, Muhammed Yunus, has been appointed to lead the government.
Mumbai: Seven years after losing the tax edge that had made it India's second-biggest source of capital, Mauritius is eyeing a comeback, this time through the GIFT City route.

The island nation's International Financial Centre (IFC) is considering opening an office in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), a top Mauritius minister said.

A large Mauritius delegation currently visiting India will meet officials of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) to discuss areas of collaboration, including equivalence between the two. This would mean easier compliance and tax norms for GIFT City-based entities operating in Mauritius.

'Win-win situation'

It will be a win-win situation. This is the type of relationship we want to establish with GIFT City," said Soomilduth Bholah, the African nation's minister for financial services and good governance, who is leading the delegation on his second India visit this year. A collaboration could help entities in the two jurisdictions to move capital between them easily.

A key objective of the GIFT City collaboration is to attract capital from India to Africa, Bholah said. The island nation also wants to attract services like financing of immovable assets in Africa, intellectual property management and reinsurance from India.

The new business avenues are intended to compensate for the loss of direct investment from Mauritius to India.

Also read | Panic-struck FPIs ramp up bearish futures bets overnight

In 2017, India and Mauritius dropped a tax provision that exempted Mauritius-based entities from capital gains taxes in India. Around the same time, New Delhi also introduced General Anti-Avoidance Rules that compelled investors to show why they situated themselves in beneficial tax jurisdictions like Mauritius besides the tax benefit.

The developments led to a plunge in foreign direct investment (FDI) from the island nation, which had become a hub for financial flows from what was once an agriculture-and-tourism focused economy. Financial services now make up more than an eighth of the Mauritian economy, as per data from the FSC. India-bound investments account for more than half of the global business capital flowing through Mauritius.

New Products

Mauritius now allows a variable capital company (VCC) structure for investment vehicles, a model already popular in Singapore. Under this structure, investors can set up multiple sub-funds under an umbrella entity. The sub-funds will have individual legal and tax identities and will not have any cross-liabilities. This reduces the compliance and cost burden on the investors, who need not seek fresh registrations for each new fund. Mauritius is now looking to extend the VCC structure to wealth management and family offices.

The key beneficiaries will be those looking to invest in Africa. Mauritius is part of the African Union, and investors can benefit from the various bilateral pacts the island nation has with African countries.

The VCC structure will substantially enhance the attractiveness of Mauritius as an investment holding jurisdiction, said Punit Shah, partner, Dhruva Advisors, who advises domestic as well as multinational companies on international transactions and taxation matters.

"It will boost Mauritius' comparative position vis-a-vis Singapore for foreign direct investment (FDI) into India, especially considering its cost competitiveness and the fact that both jurisdictions are almost at par so far as tax treatment of Indian capital gains is concerned," he said. "Mauritius will also become attractive for floating regulated fund structures with differentiated returns, for outbound investments from India."

A firm hand

Mauritius is also working on its reputation, after being seen as a tax haven hosting opaque financial structures used to launder money.

The situation came to a head in 2020, when the Financial Action Task Force, an inter-government body meant to fight money laundering, put Mauritius on its grey list citing lack of fiscal controls and oversight. This triggered enhanced scrutiny on investments routed through Mauritius.

The country rushed to rework its regulations and compliances, exiting the grey list in 2021. Today, Bholah claims Mauritius has no shell companies. For every company registered in the country, the regulators know the ultimate beneficial owner.

Also read | Direct foreign listing will have no-go areas too

"Considering that Mauritius has traditionally been used, from a tax-efficiency perspective, for making investments into Africa, it could now be also used as a gateway for Indian investors and fund managers for making investments into Africa," Shah of Dhruva Advisors said.

We know the pain that we have gone through a few years back," Bholah said, adding that the country is proactively implementing robust regulatory standards.
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas BTR New Material Group opened a $478 million anode material plant in Indonesia, the first for a country thats pushing to become a manufacturing hub for electric vehicles.

Work on the factory, located in Kendal Industrial Park in Central Java, started in 2023 and operations began Wednesday, according to a statement from Indonesias Presidential Secretariat. It has an initial capacity of 80,000 tons of anode material a year, enough to supply 1.5 million electric cars, according to Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

The completion of the project marks an important step toward Indonesias goal to build out a complete supply chain for electric vehicles, a key aim of the outgoing president. The government has looked to leverage its vast production of nickel, a key ingredient for some batteries, to draw in foreign investors to the EV sector.

What we have dreamed of  a big EV ecosystem that is strong and integrated  is starting to materialize, Widodo said at the plants inauguration on Wednesday. If all of the ecosystem is built, we will enter the global supply chain which can give us value add in employment and the economy.

BTR will begin the next phase of the plants development later this year, expanding capacity to 180,000 tons, said He Xueqin, chairman of BTR New Material, said on Wednesday. That would make Indonesia the worlds second biggest anode producer, he said.

Anodes  which sit opposite the cathodes  are an essential part of EV batteries and are typically made of graphite. The Indonesian plant will source artificial graphite from the state oil company PT Pertamina and natural graphite from Africa.

BTR New Material, which is affiliated with China Baoan Group Co. Ltd., holds 60% of ownership of the new factory. Singapore Stellar Investment Pte. Ltd holds the rest.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
NASA images: The stunning photograph captured by the US space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) offers us a glimpse into the universe's marvellous visuals.

NASA's James Webb Telescope, Hubble Space Telescope, and Chandra Space Observatory have captured these breathtaking visuals.

Uncovering the extraterrestrial world in unprecedented detail, the space agency regularly releases images never seen before. The cosmic wonders include celestial bodies, planets, nebula, moon, star clusters, interacting galaxies, black holes and more. Some images unravel mysteries and allow us to explore secrets yet to be revealed, while others introduce complexities into our existing framework of knowledge.

Also Read | 5 jaw-dropping NASA images that will make you question wonders of the universe

Let's explore the magical astronomical wonders and take a glimpse at five images from space shared by the American space agency, depicting the grandeur and complexity of the celestial world.

Sunspots

Sunspots In May, NASA's Perseverance Mars rover photographed sunspots using its Mastcam-Z cameras. Sunspots are regions where solar flares erupt on the Sun's surface. The description of the image states, These flares sent charged particles toward Mars, where several NASA spacecraft were able to study them.

Solar Storm with wind gust on Mars

Solar Storm with wind gust on Mars The GIF images provide a view of the solar storm striking one of the navigation cameras aboard NASA's Curiosity Mars rover. The rover's navigation cameras photographed wind gusts on Mars, which also captured specks in the sequence of images caused by charged particles from the solar storm. The description with the image says, The gust occurred at the same time that charged particles began to strike the Martian surface on May 20, 2024.

Also Read | NASA shares image of proton star buried at the centre of Crab Nebula | See photo

Digging the Dark Hole

Digging the Dark Hole NASA released an image compiled by using three computer readouts of real data using the Roman Coronagraph Instrument. The image at left shows the amount of starlight that leaks into the coronagraph's field of view when only fixed components called masks are used to block the star at the centre of the circle. It added, The middle and right images show the progression of this process, where red indicates less starlight and black indicates most or all starlight has been removed. Lasers and special optics were used by engineers to replicate the light from a star as it would appear when observed by the telescope and called the test digging the dark hole.

Jupiters Moon Amalthea

Jupiters Moon Amalthea Jupiters tiny Moon Amalthea was captured by NASAs Juno mission on March 7. Jupiters colourful belts and swirling storms, in addition to the Great Red Spot, are clearly visible in the photograph. Close examination reveals something more: two glimpses of the tiny moon Amalthea, NASA said.

Andromeda Galaxy

Also Read | NASA images: 5 incredible Space images by James Webb telescope
Prince Harry has expressed his frustration over losing his automatic security. He has even filed a legal challenge to have it restored. In February, the High Court decided that the choice by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) to offer "bespoke" security for Harry was lawful.

However, Harry has been granted permission to appeal the decision. While his dissatisfaction with the security removal is known, a letter from his grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth, reveals her thoughts on the issue.

At the 2020 Sandringham Summit, Prince Harry and senior Royals discussed the future of the Duke and his wife, Meghan Markle, as non-full-time working Royals. After the summit, Sir Edward Young, the late Queen's private secretary, wrote to the Cabinet on her behalf. He detailed the discussions and shared the Queen's views on Harry-Meghans security.

"You will understand well that ensuring that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain safe is of paramount importance to Her Majesty and her family, The Metro quoted Sir Young as writing on the Queens behalf.

Given the duke's public profile by virtue of being born into the Royal family, his military service, the duchess's own independent profile, and the well-documented history of targeting of the Sussex family by extremists, it is imperative that the family continues to be provided with effective security," the letter said.

And, of course, the family is mindful of tragic incidents of the past, the letter added. As per the publication, it was an apparent reference to Dianas death.

Harrys security concerns Prince Harry earlier disclosed that the British tabloids' coverage of his life, using illegally-obtained private information, had caused safety concerns for his family, especially his wife, the Duchess of Sussex.
(Bloomberg) -- A group of faith-based investors are warning some of the largest US retailers including Costco Wholesale Corp. and Walmart Inc. against selling the abortion pill mifepristone.

Companies offering the drug risk reputation and legal repercussions, according to an Aug. 2 letter sent to chief executive officers at the two retail giants, as well as Kroger Co., Albertsons Co. and medical distribution company McKesson Corp.

The religious group behind the petition owns about $172 million in shares of the five companies. The coalition was led by Boise, Idaho-based Inspire Investing, which manages $3 billion of assets, and includes the investment arm of the Southern Baptist churches and the American Family Association, a Christian fundamentalist group.

Walmart declined to comment while the four other companies didnt respond to the request.

The letter was in response to the New York City Comptrollers decision to urge the companies to begin selling mifepristone. The Comptroller, which said it owned more than $1.3 billion in shares of those five companies, warned them of lost revenue opportunities if they didnt.

A spokeswoman for Comptroller Brad Lander declined to comment.

Mifepristone is used in more than half of US abortions. In June, the US Supreme Court unanimously overturned a federal appeals ruling that would have barred mail-order prescriptions for the drug.

CVS Health Corp. and Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc., the two biggest US pharmacy groups, have already agreed to distribute the pills.

The pressure from faith-based groups against the abortion drug is part of a broader effort by conservative groups to push back against progressive investors in areas that include environmental activism, diversity and LGBTQ initiatives.

Were advocating for companies to just stick to their knitting and do a good job for customers and stay out of divisive social issues, Robert Netzly, CEO of Inspire, said in an interview. Corporations are understanding that theres a risk of just going along and caving to these activists.

The backlash against so-called woke capitalism has led to lawsuits, boycotts and other pressure against companies not to bow to liberal groups. Companies have said they remain committed to DEI, even as they remove references and minimize some programs.

In recent weeks, Tractor Supply Co., Deere & Co. and Harley-Davidson Inc. have come under fire from conservative activists over their stands on social issues. The companies also risk a backlash against the backlash, from progressives.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
More women in the US are seeking abortion care through telehealth than before the Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade, according to a new report.

One in five clinician-provided abortions performed in the first quarter of 2024 were obtained through telehealth services, the analysis from abortion advocacy group the Society of Family Planning showed. That contrasts with the second quarter of 2022, during which only one in 20 abortions were obtained through telehealth.

That increase comes in the aftermath of the Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization in June 2022, which rolled back federal abortion access protections. Currently, 14 states have enacted total or near-total bans against the procedure. Though bans can serve as impediments to people seeking care, it doesnt necessarily stop them: There were an average of 99,000 abortions performed across the US during each of the first three months of 2024, an increase compared with an average of around 82,270 procedures per month in the second quarter of 2022.

Telehealth services can help patients navigate care despite barriers like distance and cost, said Ushma Upadhyay, a public health social scientist at the University of California, San Francisco, who participated in the research.

What were seeing is the impact of innovation in telehealth, she said. Providers are really doing whatever they can, understanding the tremendous barriers that people face, particularly in states with bans.

There were at least 208,000 fewer abortions provided at brick-and-mortar clinics between the second quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2024, the Society of Family Planning report estimated. Researchers attributed those losses to the states with total- and six-week abortion bans. The report also doesnt account for any increase in abortions obtained through extrajudicial means, such as overseas telehealth clinics.

Researchers also noted the general increase of telehealth services across health care after Covid.

It just made sense that abortion via telehealth was also a service, said Upadhyay.
Bangladesh's first female leader Khaleda Zia was released from house arrest on Tuesday, just one day after her rival, Sheikh Hasina, resigned as prime minister and fled the country.

This development added a new chapter to the long-standing Battle of the Begums for control of Bangladesh. According to President Mohammed Shahabuddin's office, Khaleda, the leader of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, was freed following discussions with defence officials and politicians.

Since 1991, Sheikh Hasina, 76, and Khaleda Zia, 78, have been the central figures in Bangladeshi politics. They often alternate in power after inheriting the political legacies of two assassinated leaders who ruled Bangladesh in its early years.

Sheikh Hasina led the Awami League, founded by her father, Mujibur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1975. Their ongoing rivalry, often called the Battle of the Begums, has overshadowed Bangladeshi politics for decades.

Since Hasina's rise to power in 2009, Khaleda has faced numerous criminal charges and imprisonment. She has retreated from public life and left her exiled eldest son to lead her political movement as acting leader.

FILE- 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 Rahman's swearing-in ceremony in Dhaka Saturday, March 30, 1996. (AP Photo/Pavel Rahman, File)

What led Khaleda Zia to become a politician? Born on August 15, 1945, Khaleda Zia now suffers from liver disease, diabetes, and heart problems, according to her doctors.

The assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman dramatically altered Bangladesh's history. In 1977, shortly after the assassination, General Ziaur Rahman, the then army chief, seized control of the country from President Khondoker Mostaq Ahmad and established a military dictatorship, according to a report by ORF.

Upon taking power, Ziaur Rahman granted amnesty to Bangabandhu's assassins, appointing them to diplomatic positions. He also allowed leaders of organizations like Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and the Razakars, who had collaborated with the Pakistani army during the genocide, to return. These groups had been banned and labelled as war criminals by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman after Bangladesh's liberation war.

In 1975, Ziaur Rahman introduced an indemnity law that granted immunity to those involved in the assassination conspiracy. This law was later repealed when Sheikh Hasina came to power in 1996. Zia also permitted various pro-Pakistan politicians and organizations to form political parties and participate in elections during the 1980s.

He founded the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which was led by his widow, Khaleda Zia, following his assassination in a coup attempt in 1981. Khaleda Zia, in coalition with JeI, served two terms as prime minister, during which Bangladesh-India relations languished.

The report citing intelligence sources suggested that Zia and his army colleagues were involved in the assassination conspiracy, which was supported and financed by Pakistani generals and the Inter-Services Intelligence, who were still reeling from their defeat in the 1971 war.

Trained by the Pakistani army, Zia adopted its mindset, favouring military coups and anchoring Bangladesh's nationalism in Islamic and anti-Indian sentiments, in contrast to the secular ideals championed by Bangabandhu and the Awami League. Zia's successor, General Hussein Muhammad Ershad, later amended the Constitution to declare Islam as the state religion of Bangladesh.

How did Khaleda rule Bangladesh? Khaleda Zia replaced the presidential system with a parliamentary form of government, shifting power to the prime minister. She also removed restrictions on foreign investment and made primary education compulsory and free.

After losing to Hasina in the 1996 election, Khaleda regained power in the 2001 election. Her second term, however, was overshadowed by the rise of Islamist militants and allegations of corruption.

Battle of Begums In 2004, a grenade attack targeted a rally addressed by Sheikh Hasina. While Hasina survived, the attack resulted in over 20 deaths and more than 500 injuries. The government led by Khaleda Zia and its Islamic allies were widely blamed for the attack. Years later, Zia's eldest son was tried in absentia and sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the attack, though the BNP claimed the charges were fabricated.

Despite Khaleda Zia's efforts to curb Islamist radical groups, her second term as prime minister ended in 2006 when an army-backed interim government assumed control amid political turmoil and street violence. The interim government detained both Khaleda and Hasina on charges of corruption and abuse of power for about a year before releasing them in time for the general election in 2008.

Although the BNP boycotted the 2008 election and Khaleda Zia did not regain power, her bitter feud with Sheikh Hasina shaped Bangladeshi politics.

The rivalry between their parties has frequently led to strikes, violence, and fatalities, hindering economic progress in a poverty-stricken nation of nearly 170 million people, which is also vulnerable to severe flooding.

In 2018, Khaleda, her eldest son (who had been in exile since 2008), and several aides were convicted of embezzling approximately $250,000 in foreign donations intended for an orphanage trust established during her last term as prime minister. Khaleda claimed these charges were part of a scheme to exclude her and her family from politics.

She was imprisoned but was placed under house arrest in March 2020 on humanitarian grounds due to deteriorating health.

Zia's last visit to India was in 2012 as the Leader of the Opposition and Chairperson of the BNP.
Bangladesh's interim government will take oath on Thursday night, local media reported on Wednesday evening. According to the Dhaka Tribune, Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that the oath-taking ceremony of the interim government will be held at 8pm on Thursday.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Army Headquarters on Wednesday, General Waker-Uz-Zaman said there was a proposal to hold the oath-taking ceremony in the afternoon.

"However, that would result in a very tight schedule because Dr Yunus [Muhammad Yunus] is expected to arrive in the country around 2:10pm. It would be difficult to arrange the ceremony after that. Therefore, we may hold it around 8pm. The arrangement will accommodate a total of 400 people," he was quoted as saying.

The Army chief further informed that the new government might initially consist of around 15 members. However, one or two more individuals may be added.

Yunus to head interim govt Muhammad Yunus, 84, was picked by President Mohammed Shahabuddin to lead the new interim government. He was chosen after student demonstrators, whose uprising drove Hasina to flee to India, demanded Yunus to head the new government.

Also Read | What Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladesh govt means for India

Yunus, who's in Paris, is likley to return to Bangladesh on Thursday.

"Let us make the best use of our new victory," Yunus said in a statement to Reuters before departing Paris, where he had been receiving medical treatment while out on bail from criminal cases brought under Hasina. I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm. Please refrain from all kinds of violence.

Outside the airport, he told reporters: "I'm looking forward to going back home and see what's happening there and how we can organise ourselves to get out of the trouble that we're in."

"I'll go and talk to them. I'm just fresh in this whole area," said Yunus, an economist who was awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for founding a bank that pioneered fighting poverty with small loans to ordinary people.
The Keir Starmer-led British government on Tuesday called on Elon Musk to act responsibly after the Tesla CEO used his social media platform X to unleash a barrage of posts about the protests that have been plaguing UK.

Civil war is inevitable, Elon Musk had posted on X. His consequent posts further questioned the current government, on why all communities are not protected in Britain. Musk even shared a meme, and used the hashtag TwoTierKeir on his other posts, highlighting complaints that the British criminal justice system treats a community more leniently than far-right activists.

Justice Minister Heidi Alexander called out Musk's posts, reported the AP. Use of language such as a civil war is in no way acceptable, Alexander told Times Radio.

The Justice Minister further noted that everyone handling a social media platform should act responsibly. 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, said Alexander, reported the AP.

Britain's government has been calling upon social media companies, such as Musks X, to help combat the spread of misleading information online.

Weve been working with the social media companies, and some of the action that theyve taken already with the automatic removal of some false information is to be welcomed, Alexander told the BBC. But there is undoubtedly more that the social media companies could and should be doing, added Alexander.

Britain violence Several parts of the UK, including Plymouth and Belfast have been plagued by violence over a week, after unrest began following the incident of right-wing activists using social media to spread misinformation about a knife attack that killed three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event on July 29.

Also Read | How to respond to the riots on Britains streets
Bangladesh's ousted leader Sheikh Hasina did not seek asylum anywhere, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy said in an interview recently. Hasina reached India after she resigned as the Bangladesh prime minister on Monday. If reports are to be believed, she is exploring options for seeking asylum after her talks with the United Kingdom were unsuccessful.

In an interview with NDTV on Tuesday, Sajeeb Wazeb said, "The reports about her requesting asylum are incorrect. She has not requested asylum anywhere. So the question of the UK or the US not responding yet is not true."

Joy, who is based in the United States, once again denied the reports while speaking to the German news outlet Deutsche Welle (DW) on Wednesday. "These are all rumours. She has not made a decision on that yet. She is going to stay in Delhi for a little while," he said.

Hasina fled to India after she resigned as the Bangladesh prime minister. She landed at the Hindon airbase near Delhi following unprecedented anti-government protests in Bangladesh.

Also Read | The Explosion of Asylum Claims Driving the Global Migrant Crisis

In India, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar told Parliament on Monday, 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."

Later, reports emerged that she had sought asylum in the UK. However, a UK Home Office spokesperson told 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. Those who need international protection should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach - that is the fastest route to safety.

The Hindu reported on Wednesday that Hasina is discussing options with other countries including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, apart from those where her immediate family resides: the US, the UK, Finland and India.

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.
US Representative Cori Bush said that she will go after the American Israel Public Affairs Committee after she lost a bitter and expensive primary battle driven by Democratic divisions over the war in Gaza.

AIPAC, Im coming to tear your kingdom down, the Missouri Democrat said in a fiery speech following her defeat to local prosecutor Wesley Bell.

The loss is the second for a member of the squad  an informal group of progressives in the US House. Just weeks earlier, Representative Jamaal Bowman, another Israel critic, lost a primary in the New York suburbs to George Latimer, who was also backed by AIPAC.

The organization spent heavily on attack ads, but both campaigns also focused on how the squad members voted against President Joe Bidens infrastructure bill and attacked the candidates for being ineffective representatives. Bush, who was reluctant to label Hamas a terrorist group, was also being investigated by the Justice Department over allegations she misused government funds.

With 94% of the votes counted, Bell, the St. Louis County prosecuting attorney, had 51% support compared with about 46% for Bush, reported.

Bell, who benefited from $9.5 million in ad spending from pro-Israel groups, according to AdImpact, had implored voters to stand with Israel, drawing a sharp contrast with the two-term Democrat who has accused Israel of committing war crimes in its response to the Oct. 7 attack on Israeli civilians by Hamas. The US and European Union deem Hamas a terrorist organization.

The Bush and Bowman losses are a blow to US opponents of Israels Gaza invasion and diminish the congressional influence of the squad, a small group that has often clashed with more moderate Democrats.

The St. Louis-area district is a Democratic stronghold and the majority of residents are non-White and nearly half are Black. The district includes Ferguson, where 18-year-old Michael Brown was killed by a White police officer in 2014, sparking protests. Bush has said she was maced and beaten by police during those protests.

Nearly 18% of residents in the district live below the poverty line, about 1.4 times the rate statewide, making economic issues among the areas top concerns.

Read: Harris, Walz Launch Swing-State Blitz to Gain Edge Over Trump

Bush, a registered nurse who once was homeless, toppled 10-term incumbent Lacy Clay in the Democratic primary in 2020. In 2022, she won the primary by nearly 43 percentage points. But the influx of outside cash from pro-Israel groups unexpectedly made it a competitive race.

Because I called for a cease-fire, AIPAC is upset about that, Bush said in an interview before the primary. Its against what they want, and they are willing to put their money behind it.

Bell didnt respond to Bloombergs requests for an interview.

Bell raised $4.8 million for his campaign, including backing from Wall Street donors. Among those who gave his campaign the maximum of $3,300 for the primary are Willoughby Capital Management founder Daniel Och, Sessa Capitals John Petry, and Daniel Loeb of Third Point LLC.

Cori Bush is one of the most bellicose, most vituperative anti-Israel voices in the United States Congress, and we think she doesnt belong there, said Mark Mellman, DMFI PAC Chairman, one of the pro-Israel organizations backing Bell.

Bush raised $2.9 million. She received contributions from Karla Jurvetson, a major Democratic donor, and Andrew Dudum, co-founder of telemedicine company Hims and Hers Health Inc.

Justice Democrats, a political action committee that supports progressive candidates, spent $2.4 million on Bushs behalf.

Divided Democrats

Progressives argued that the massive amounts raised by Israel supporters are intrusive in local races.

This would not be a race without AIPAC lifting up this man, said Usamah Andrabi, the communications director of Justice Democrats, a PAC that supports Bush and other squad members.

The Houses No. 2 Democrat, Katherine Clark, visited Bushs district and co-hosted a reproductive health round-table with local elected officials and community organizations. Other members who campaigned with Bush include Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Delia Ramirez.

However, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who campaigned for fellow New Yorker Bowman, and other squad members didnt stump for Bush in the run up to the primary. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has not provided financial support to either of the candidates.
The prisoner swap last week that brought Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich home didnt free a pair of well-known Russian cybercriminals in U.S. prisons long rumored to be part of the negotiations between Washington and Moscow.

When news of the deal began to leak online last week, multiple media outlets, blogs and social-media posts in the U.S. and Russia erroneously reported that Russian nationals Alexander Vinnik and Vladimir Dunaev, both notorious cybercriminals currently held in American prisons, were involved.

It isnt clear how much the Kremlin values either man, but their exclusion from the swap could allow the U.S. to offer proposals for a follow-on deal in exchange for Americans still in Russia. Two other U.S.-held Russian hackers, Roman Seleznev and Vladislav Klyushin, were exchanged in the recent prisoner trade, which involved 24 people overall.

A Wall Street Journal review of Russian court documents and media reports shows that as many as 20 U.S. and dual U.S.-Russian citizens are detained in Russian jails and labor camps. Those held include teachers, musicians and others who traveled to Russia and became enmeshed in a larger diplomatic struggle.

The family of Marc Fogel, an American high-school teacher, had hoped he might be included in last weeks exchange, only to learn he was still in a Russian prison. Fogel is serving a 14-year sentence after being convicted in 2022 of smuggling roughly 17 grams of marijuana into the country.

Even after the recent trade, there are dozens of Russians in U.S. federal prison or awaiting trial. The Bureau of Prisons said in 2023 it had 25 convicted Russian nationals in custody. Russian officials have indicated that there may be as many as 35 more in other American prisons.

Dunaev and Vinnik have received the most attention as possible trade candidates.

Russia has indicated some interest in Dunaev in the past. Russian diplomats last year visited him, according to Russian state media, and a top Kremlin spokesman discussed his case in the context of U.S. talks concerning an exchange with Gershkovich.

The 41-year-old Dunaev, whom South Korea extradited to the U.S. in 2021, was sentenced in January to more than five years in prison for helping to develop malware code, known as Trickbot, that was used against American hospitals and other businesses.

The Trickbot hacking group and its affiliates collected hundreds of millions of dollars by shutting down emergency rooms, city governments and public schools. For a time, Trickbot was seen by cybercrime hunters as possibly the worlds biggest and most dangerous organized cybercrime group. Dunaev and his co-defendants caused immeasurable disruption and financial damage, maliciously infecting millions of computers worldwide, a federal prosecutor said when he was sentenced.

When Dunaev pleaded guilty last November, some observers thought it may have been to help pave the way for a trade. He has a scheduled release date of November 2025 from federal custody. He is currently incarcerated in a low-security prison in California.

Russias interest in Vinnik is murkier. The co-founder of popular bitcoin exchange BTC-e used to launder more than $9 billion in transactions, Vinnik has been linked to the theft of hundreds of thousands of bitcoin from another exchange, one of the biggest crypto thefts on record, according to prosecutors.

After his arrest in Greece in 2017, Russian President Vladimir Putin raised his case with then-Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras during a meeting in Moscow, Russian state-owned news outlet RIA Novosti reported in 2019, citing a letter from a Russian foreign ministry official.

A lot of big people used Vinniks services, said Sergey Mayzus, a Russian businessman who owned a payments firm that provided his exchange with banking services and later sued Vinnik for damages related to the shutdown of the exchange.

Last year Vinniks former U.S. lawyer, a public defender, campaigned for Vinnik to be considered for a trade, asking a judge to modify a protective order so he could more openly push for a deal involving his client. He was previously offered in a trade proposed by the U.S., the lawyer said in court.

Vinnik pleaded guilty in May and is scheduled to be sentenced in January. His current lawyer, Arkady Bukh, said he is hoping for a sentence of less than 10 years, taking into account his time already being behind bars in Europe and the U.S. after his arrest.

Crypto sleuths for years have sought to find a reputedly hidden trove of bitcoin that Vinnik and the other BTC-e co-founders kept after the exchange was closed. BTC-es digital wallets retained tens of thousands of bitcoin after its closure. Two years ago, an unknown person withdrew bitcoin then worth $165 million from one of these wallets, blockchain data shows.

Most swaps involve prisoners who have been sentenced, which may have complicated Vinniks chances of being part of last weeks deal, Bukh said.

His family hoped very, very much that he would be part of the package, but unfortunately it turned out that he wasnt, said Frederic Belot, a lawyer for Vinnik in a separate case before the European Court of Human Rights. That is very regrettable.
Big Tech is following a crafty playbook to hoover up AI talent: Instead of buying the hottest AI startups, the giants hire their leadership and license their intellectual property, essentially sucking the life out of them. So long as they leave behind the shell of a company, antitrust scrutiny can be avoided.

Alphabets Google [which just had bad news in the form of a court ruling against it for its search market monopoly], is the latest to follow this template by hiring the co-founders of Character.ai, Noam Shazeer and Daniel De Freitas, along with a few other employees.

Most of the startups staff will remain with the smaller company while its general counsel will become CEO. Why a lawyer? Because Google is entering a licensing agreement to use Character.AIs technologyin addition to buying out the startups investors, principally Andreessen Horowitz, whod put in more $150 million.

Microsoft last year hired the founding team behind Inflection, a high-flying startup that was also creating an AI companion. Amazon.com then hired the team at Adept, a San Francisco-based firm co-founded by former OpenAI and Google researchers.

Its a sleight of hand that reaps big benefits for tech giants, who can afford the vast computational power and data needed to build Generative AI, but struggle to attract the best talent. Now they can do the latter too.

Shazeer is a big hire for Google, which has grappled with glitches in its flagship AI model Gemini that could hinder its efforts to catch up to Microsoft and Amazon in the cloud wars. So venerated is Shazeer that Google may be paying him in the tens of millions of dollars (or more) to rejoin the company.

He was one of the lead inventors of the Transformer, a powerful blueprint for AI systems that formed the basis of the recent boom. Back in 2017, he was perhaps the most respected Google scientist named on a landmark research paper detailing how the Transformer could exploit powerful AI chips to quickly process and generate information.

Google was slow to capitalize on the technology, but OpenAI made the Transformer the basis of ChatGPT (its what T stands for). All eight authors of the research paper left Google, mostly to start companies that raised billions of dollars thanks to their pedigree, including two who co-founded Adept.

When Shazeer co-founded Character.ai, he was continuing work that Google had shut down, to build lifelike chatbots that humans could use as companions. Character.ai went on to become one of the most popular AI apps outside of ChatGPT, particularly with teenagers.

The app lets you chat with a bot specially-trained to emulate a celebrity, fictional character or historic figure, and several teens have told me they spend hours a day on the app, role-playing or chatting with an artificial confidante.

Shazeers goal was to create an AI model that could remember everything about you. A person has probably heard or read hundreds of billions of words in their lifetime, so thats about the scale of data that you needa quarter of a gigabyteto have a lot of context on a persons life," Shazeer told me in January.

This is not beyond the realm of feasibility as we improve our algorithms The model would know billions of things about you when its talking to you."

Also read: Struggling AI startups look for a bailout from Big Tech

However intriguing that vision is, Shazeer will now be bringing it back to his old bosses at Google, where hell likely have more sway than he did before, perhaps by working directly with Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis.

The question is whether the likes of Meta or Elon Musks X.ai will follow a similar acqui-hiring strategy. Both reportedly looked into picking up Character.ai, before Shazeer went to Google, but there are other AI companies in the market that are likely grappling with the costs of building their technology amid unclear revenue prospects.

Cohere, a Canadian AI start-up founded by another author of the Transformer paper, is likely in play, along with Perplexity, a San Francisco startup that is competing with Google on AI search.

Even the founders of Anthropic and OpenAI, the two AI startups that have raised $8.8 billion and $11.3 billion respectively, must surely be glancing at the exit doors.

OpenAI could lose $5 billion this year, according to an analysis by The Information, which looked at the companys internal financial data, meaning it will need to raise more cash one way or another.

The US Federal Trade Commission is scrutinizing what Microsoft and Amazon are doing, but theres no indication they will turn into formal probes or hit deals.

More likely: Well see tech giants gobble up more leaders of the GenAI industry, consolidating power as they ride out the current market rout right under the noses of regulators. Perhaps this is what AI startups had expected. bloomberg
The budget speech gave pride of place to the long-term goal of Viksit Bharat and also said that reforms in many areas would be needed to achieve it. This article focuses on one of those areas: trade policy.

Policies should be tailored to specified targets, and in this respect, commerce minister Piyush Goyal has set an ambitious target. Exports of goods and services must rise from $775 billion in 2023-24 to $2 trillion by 2030.

This implies a growth rate of over 14 % in nominal US dollars. This is three times faster than the IMF projection of global exports of goods and services in the same period.

The trade policy we need to achieve this target requires resolving some internal differences and also evolving a new approach to handling the global environment we now face.

Resolve internal differences: The key difference arises from the impression in some quarters that atmanirbharta or self-reliance implies increased protection for domestic production to reduce imports.

To be fair, the government has denied subscribing to this view. But protectionism is on the rise everywhere, often covertly supported by business interests, and it is no surprise if this is also happening in India.

Perceptions that the government favoured protectionism surfaced in 2017, when import duties were raised on several items, reversing a policy of gradual reduction of duties that all previous governments had followed until then. It was reinforced when duties were raised in subsequent years.

This years budget has sent a welcome new signal by reducing import duties on several items in an effort to make domestic production more competitive. The finance minister also announced a comprehensive internal review over the next six months of Indias tariff structure.

This is to be welcomed, though I wish the minister had appointed an external expert committee, including retired officers of the revenue service, to present a bold plan for tariff reform. Internal reviews too often end up dusting off old proposals without coming up with drastic changes.

Yet, drastic changes are precisely what we need. Ideally, we should announce that our upper-end duties are too high and they will be brought in line with those prevailing in peer-group emerging market economies. Investors must also have some assurance of stability in the structure proposed.

This proposal is not new. It was proposed earlier by Arvind Panagariya, the first vice-chair of Niti Aayog and current chairman of the 16th Finance Commission. It has also been proposed by other academics, including Amita Batra (a colleague at CSEP).

Domestic industry would not be adversely affected if reductions are staggered over a few years and parallel steps are taken to achieve some rupee depreciation to offset duty reduction. This would leave industries competing with imports adequately supported while aiding exporters.

External developments that affect trade policy: In addition to restructuring customs duties, our trade policy must deal with two new developments in global trade.

The first is that advanced countries have lost faith in multilateral trade negotiations (MTNs) and moved towards Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). The second is that global value chains (GVCs) now account for a substantial part of the worlds goods trade.

These developments imply that if we want our exports to benefit from GVCs, we need to (a) attract the multinational companies that dominate them to locate part of their production facilities in India, and (b) we need to join FTAs that ensure seamless duty-free access for parts and components which are essential for GVCs to work. We have recognized the need to welcome FDI in order to attract GVC-related production, but our policy on FTAs needs to be rethought.

This has acquired urgency because of geopolitical developments. There is growing tension between the West and a China-Russia partnership in which Russia is the weaker party. Western countries no longer talk of globalization and trade liberalization. Instead, we have discriminatory trade policy aimed at re-shoring, near-shoring or friend shoring.

The discriminatory trade measures against China and Russia will have a negative impact on all sides. The IMF has stated categorically that global growth and world trade will be hurt.

India will also be hurt by this. However, the attempt to shift trade away from China also offers India an opportunity. MNCs with GVCs heavily concentrated in China will not exit the country completely, but may want to evolve a China plus one policy, and India is particularly well placed to benefit from this.

A sensible customs duty structure on the lines discussed above is one pre-requisite for India to benefit. Equally important is membership of trade pacts which allow the smooth movement of components across borders.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is the worlds largest regional trading arrangement, covering all of East Asia, including China. We were on the verge of joining it in November 2019, but backed out at the last minute. This was reportedly because Indian industry groups were nervous about giving duty-free trade access to China.

If China was the only reason for walking out of the RCEP, we should seriously consider joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This agreement was originally pushed by the US under President Barack Obama, but the Donald Trump administration took the US out.

It currently covers 11 countries including Japan, South Korea, Australia and some from Asean. The UK has recently been cleared for membership, so it will soon be 12 countries. China has applied to join the CPTPP, but has not so far been accepted. The geopolitics that is keeping China out is likely to work in our favour if we apply.

The real problem is that joining will require acceptance of high environmental and labour standards which we have traditionally opposed on the grounds that it restricts our policy space. This approach needs a rethink.

Our ambition to reach developed-country status by 2047 doesnt sit well with rejecting obligations that other developing countries are willing to accept. These obligations can always be phased in over time, and the length of the adjustment period could be negotiated.

A contentious issue that will come up in negotiating FTAs is the signing of acceptable Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs). We recently cancelled all existing BITs unilaterally, and proposed that our partners accept our new model BIT.

The problem is that under the new model, aggrieved investors cannot invoke international arbitration to resolve disputes with the host state without first exhausting all other possibilities under domestic law. This may seem minor, but it ignores the notorious delays which characterize our legal system.

We cannot expect billions of dollars to pour in for the development of critical industries (and in technologically sensitive areas) without providing investors with speedy redress avenues along the lines that other countries offer.

We have made progress on some FTAs, but the gains are small. We have signed an FTA with the UAE and European Free Trade Association, but this is a very small group of countries.

We have also signed a limited early harvest FTA" with Australia, but the coverage is limited. We are negotiating FTAs with the UK and EU. Both are important, but progress will depend on our taking a more flexible line on harmonizing other standards.

One of the problems that could arise is the treatment of restrictions under the EUs Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). We could argue that an FTA by definition must rule out CBAM type penalties on trade flows. It is unlikely that the EU will agree. Its CBAM does pose us problems, but we may have to deal with it separately.

The US is our most important trading partner, but it has indicated that it does not propose to sign any more FTAs. However, we should perhaps review our position of not joining the trade pillar of the US-sponsored Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. This does not offer any market access, as of now, but there is no harm in joining it.

It is possible that commerce ministry negotiators find it difficult to get other ministries to agree on the flexibilities needed. Perhaps these issues should be referred to the Niti Aayog to take an overall view and seek clearance at the highest level.

Finally, trade policy is only one of the factors that can deliver strong export performance. Other initiatives, such as developing good infrastructure, reducing logistical costs, development of human skills and improving the ease of doing business, are also important. And these are relevant not just for exports, but for the economy as a whole.
To grasp just how difficult it is to build a sustainable world, just look at what is happening in Kerala. In 2018, the state witnessed its worst ever flood in history. In 2019, floods repeated. Over the last few years, there have been several landslides across the state. Last weeks landslide in Wayanad is the worst Kerala has witnessed.

In the world of policymaking, there is a strong belief that awareness will lead to appropriate action. So, the most prescribed solution to mitigate any human behaviour problem is an awareness campaign. Ever since the Wayanad tragedy, Malayalam TV channels and newspapers have been relentlessly reporting various facets of the tragedy.

There could not have been a bigger awareness campaign about the consequences of not protecting nature than the combined media coverage of the Wayanad tragedy. But the question is: What impact will this media blitzkrieg have on the behaviour of people, at least in Kerala?

Forgetting is an important and integral process of the human brain. Forgetting frees up the brains memory storage space. It allows even those who lose their near and dear ones to move on with life. Given this inherent brain process, it is inevitable that once media reports on the issue fizzle out, the Wayanad tragedy too will follow the inevitable forgetting curve.

Evolutionarily, humans are more focused on rewards in the present. The human brain is not really geared to think about the future, even less so about risks that lie ahead. Most humans tend to believe that their future will be better than the present. So, it is unlikely that even those living in Wayanad would be able to foresee a similar tragedy befalling them again.

In the aftermath of the Wayanad landslide, various interested parties are trying to ensure that this tragedy does not become a catalyst for changing the status quo. They want to keep building houses and resorts in the Western Ghats, as done and overdone in the past. They even want rock quarrying to continue unabated.

Meteorologist Edward Lorenz was among the first few to realize that climate prediction involves working out complex relationships between multiple factors. This led Lorenz to combine his knowledge of meteorology and mathematics to create Chaos Theory.

While doing an experiment that modelled a weather prediction, he entered an initial condition as 0.506 instead of 0.506127. The result was surprising. It led to a very different prediction.

From this, he deduced that a tiny change in initial conditions can have enormous long-term implications, and this gave rise to his famous cliche: the flap of a butterflys wings in the Amazon can cause a tornado in Texas.

In the aftermath of the Gadgil Committee report, based on a pioneering study of the complex ecological problems of the Western Ghats, and even after the recent Wayanad tragedy, concerted efforts were made by vested parties to disregard the complexities of climate change and reduce this problem to simple linear arguments.

An example of this trend is a video that has been released after the Wayanad tragedy. In the video clip, the narrator says, In 1924, there wasnt much cultivation in Munnar.

But disastrous floods happened in Munnar in 1924." Then the narrator leaps to a conclusion: If so, how can farmers be implicated for what happened in Wayanad?" The motive of this message is obvious.

Oversimplification of an extremely complex phenomenon is a strategy commonly adopted by vested interests to keep subject experts out of the discussion on that topic. No wonder, the Gadgil report on the precarious state of the Western Ghats was vehemently rejected by them.

By oversimplifying discussions on climate change and making the arguments linear, it is very easy to involve lay individuals in a public debate and convert the real issue into an emotional one.

The justification trotted out for such an approach is that climate change impacts everybody and so everyone must have a say. But then, just because a heart attack could happen to anyone, we dont keep the cardiologist away from discussions of our cardiac health.

Post the Waynad tragedy, a debate has sprung up over who is responsible for the intense rains in the Western Ghats: Farmers and resort owners in Wayanad, or the city dwellers who contribute to global warming by using private vehicles and air-conditioners. The point of this blame assignment is to avoid taking any collective responsibility for the tragedy.

As the obfuscation and debates continue, there is a truth that no one can deny. The train has already left the station as far as protecting the ecology of states like Kerala is concerned. The consequences of climate change now stare at us. This is a time to take steps to protect those who would be affected by the next landslide waiting to happen in the fragile Western Ghats.

We often think that solving the problem of ecological sustainability is an easy job. Given the belief that humans are rational beings, all we need to do is organize a few conferences and launch a few awareness campaigns about the need for a sustainable world.

But events since the landslide in Wayanad show that even in the aftermath of a horrific occurrence, humans are not really willing to change their behaviour patterns. The forces that want to preserve the status quo are very strong. Making people believe that climate change and its consequences are real remains a challenge.
With countries around the world trying to rein in Big Tech, the latest antitrust ruling in the US against Google marks a big victory for regulatorsthe last big one having come when the US Justice Department took Microsoft to court in 1998.

On Monday, US District Judge Amit Mehta ruled that Google had violated antitrust laws through an illegal monopoly in the search engine market. Google spent billions of dollars ($26.3 billion in 2021 alone) to secure its position as the default search engine on various devices and platforms, tilting the playing field against other players.

Two other cases against Google are on the cards, including an antitrust lawsuit related to online advertising. Free-market advocates who insist markets can fix their own flaws often argue that judicial intervention is needless, given how technological innovation tends to overthrow monopolies.

Right now, AI chatbots are seen as a threat to Googles search dominance. There is some truth to this, but we mustnt depend solely on upheavals of technology to keep tech markets open and competitive, given the winner-takes-all dynamics of digital fields. By the time chatbots displace Google Search, it may be too late.
New Delhi: The government is expected to come out with fresh guidelines and new income slabs for middle income groups (MIGs) to qualify for assistance in building houses in urban areas under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) scheme, two persons aware of the development said.

According to one of them, a Cabinet note has been moved proposing widening the income slab for MIGs and increasing the central assistance of 1.5 lakh per house for the economically weaker section (EWS) category.

Currently, people with an annual income of 6-12 lakh are considered to be in the MIG-1 category and those with 12-18 lakh annual income are under MIG-2 category, under the housing scheme.

The cabinet is expected to approve the revised framework for the PMAY 2.0 soon so that the scheme is notified and announced this month itself and rolled out for implementation immediately thereafter, the second person quoted above said.

To be sure, the changes are yet to be approved by the Cabinet.

The first person said that it would include enlarging the eligibility criteria for middle income group. The idea is to provide housing to more people who have so far not been covered under the scheme."

Benefits under credit-linked subsidy for MIGs

Benefits under credit-linked subsidy for MIG were given for acquisition or construction of 160-sq metre houses (including re-purchase) for MIG1 buyers, and up to 200-sq metre carpet area homes for MIG 2 buyers with interest subsidies of 4% and 3% respectively on loans of up to 9 lakh and 12 lakh.'

The first person said that under PMAY 2.0, the maximum loan amount on which interest subsidy is offered may be raised beyond 12 lakh because of the high cost of building houses in certain urban areas.

PMAY 2.0 would bring back the credit linked subsidy scheme (CLSS) which was discontinued under PMAY-U at the end of FY22.

Under PMAY 2.0, houses would be constructed for 10 million urban poor and middle class populations with an estimated investment of 10 trillion, out of which the central assistance would be 2.20 trillion over a five-year period.

In addition, 20 million additional houses are proposed to be made available in rural areas under the scheme.

The houses under the scheme have been divided into those for EWS, lower income and middle income families. The categorization may continue under PMAY 2.0 as well.

Under PMAY-U, a total of 11.8 million houses, with a total investment of 8.07 trillion including Central assistance of 2 trillion, have been sanctioned by the ministry of housing and urban affairs so far, out of which 11.4 million houses have been grounded and 8.5 million completed or delivered.

Minister of state for housing and urban affairs Tokhan Sahu told Parliament that no funds have been released under CLSS for MIG from the ministry after March 2021 and that the CLSS vertical for EWS and LIG categories was up to March 2022. Under CLSS, 2.5 million beneficiaries including 600,000 from the MIG category had availed interest subsidies amounting to 58,868 crore.

The Union cabinet on 10 June approved the construction of 30 million additional rural and urban homes to meet the housing requirements arising out of an increase in the number of eligible families.

Queries sent to the ministries of housing and urban affairs and finance were unanswered at press time.
TEL AVIVWhen air-raid sirens sound, Israelis all know where to goa system of bomb shelters dating back five decades that are built to withstand most conventional missiles.

This familiarity partly explains the mood in many Israeli cities, where people are nervous but not panicking as a promised attack from Iran looms. Summer activities for children are in full swing, and grocery stores are fully stocked. The military has placed no limits on public gatherings and are telling people to go about their daily lives. Bomb shelters in some cities arent even open yet.

Israels main defense against a potential missile attack by Iran and its proxies in the region will be the countrys multitiered air-defense system. It has a stellar record and, together with help from the U.S. and other allies, shot down 99% of the more than 300 missiles and drones fired at Israel in April by Iran in its first direct attack on the country.

Israelis are also relying on the bomb shelters designed to protect civilians from attack and built up and improved over the countrys 76-year existence. Many are putting their faith in it. There could be real chaos," said Ofer Shabtay, 39 years old, a programmer who lives in Tel Aviv. But I feel very safe."

Starting in the 1970s, Israeli cities began building a system of public underground shelters to protect residents from aerial bombing.

In 1991, Iraq, then led by Saddam Hussein, fired dozens of Scud missiles at Israel, hitting and damaging cities such as Tel Aviv and Haifa.

The next year, Israel passed a law mandating bomb shelters in every new building.

Today, around 65% of Israelis have a room in their home or apartment that is a bomb shelter, or have a bomb shelter on their floor servicing several apartments, or live near a public shelter, according to an Israeli security official.

Bomb shelters in apartments are made of reinforced concrete and heavy metal doors. Aside from the door and a fortified window, they are largely indistinguishable from a regular room. Many Israelis have turned them into their childrens bedrooms, so the children are safer when sleeping.

Since the early 1990s, these shelters have predominantly protected Israelis from short-range rockets fired from Gaza or Lebanon. Now Israelis are facing the prospect of cruise and ballistic missiles with significantly larger warheads fired from thousands of miles away.

According to the Israeli security official, the current infrastructure should protect Israelis from long-range missile attacks, since they were designed to withstand the blast and shrapnel produced by Scud missiles from Iraq.

Shelters in apartments are designed in such a way that even if the building collapses, they should remain standing as a separate fortified tower. A direct hit on the shelter itself would likely kill those within, the official said. But, the official added, that would be unlikely given the small surface areas of the in-house shelters.

Around a third of Israelis dont have a bomb shelter in their building or live close enough to a public shelter to get to one before a missile or rocket would land. These are largely people living in poorer areas, including in the countryside, communities of Israels Arab minority, and lower-income neighborhoods in cities where buildings were constructed long before shelter regulations went into effect.

Israelis in the densely populated Tel Aviv area, located in the center of the country, have around 60 seconds to get into a shelter once they hear a rocket siren. Those living on the borders near Gaza or Lebanon have as little as 10 seconds to find shelter.

In Tel Aviv, Israels economic capital, there are 168 underground public bomb shelters, and 356 altogether if those at educational institutions or other municipal buildings are included. Their locations are available on the citys website, and orange street signs inform people how to get to them.

A medium-size public shelter is about 100 square yards and can comfortably fit around 200 people in spartan accommodations. They have bathrooms, a small kitchen, a shower and air-filtration systems. Recently, the city began adding Wi-Fi to some of the underground shelters. Those in aboveground shelters, the most common type, usually have internet connections.

Inside, people usually check through social media to see where the rockets are landing.

They are also surprisingly social places, where neighbors or future romantic partners can meet for the first time. People are supposed to stay in shelters for 10 minutes after the last siren, but that doesnt stop some from stepping in and out sooner.

Despite the threat of an imminent aerial attack, underground shelters around Tel Aviv are currently locked.

Municipal officials said that until the Israeli military gives the order to open shelters because of an imminent threat, they will remain locked. Signs on the doors say they will automatically unlock when sirens in the city go off.

This system, though maddening to some residents, is meant to prevent people from sleeping or defecating in the shelters, a common phenomenon before the system was put in place.

Shabtay, the Tel Aviv programmer, said he and his neighbors recently asked the municipality to unlock the public bomb shelter below their building. It was open for a day, but to their surprise, it was locked again the next day.

Many in Israel have been stocking up on bottled water and canned food in anticipation of an Iranian attack. Israels home-front command recommends having a few days worth of food and water as well as medical equipment in private bomb shelters or shared shelters inside residential buildings. Citizens are responsible for stocking them. The public shelters have an emergency water source, but no food.

Shabtay said he hadnt loaded up on water or food. He did, however, take out cash.

Shachar Zivoni, 26, who was one of many people sitting outside a cafe in Tel Aviv on Tuesday night, said she hadnt stocked up on bottled water or other goods. Buying water makes me feel nervous," she said. I prefer not to buy and hope things will be fine."

A friend sitting next to Zivoni, who declined to give her name, said she had no bomb shelter in her building and didnt know where the closest one was.

I just go to the stairwell and hope for the best," she said.

Anat Peled contributed to this article.

Write to Dov Lieber at dov.lieber@wsj.com
"Theres never been a ticket like this. This is a ticket that wants this country to go communist immediately if not sooner. We want no security, we want no anything. Hes very into transgender, anything transgender he thinks is great. And [Walz] is not where the country is on anything, he insisted on Fox and Friends.

The former POTUS told the show hosts that Walz was a smarter version of her and perhaps greater than Bernie Sanders. He had earlier taken to social media to thank Harris for her choice.

Also Read | Pakistani man planned to kill Donald Trump. What we know about his Iran ties

Meanwhile senior Democrat Barack Obama shared a message in support of Walz, lauding his experience and values.

Governor Walz doesnt just have the experience to be vice president, he has the values and the integrity to make us proud. And as we saw last night, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz make a great team. Now lets do everything we can  volunteer, donate, organize  from now until November to help them get elected, he urged.

The Harris-Walz campaign made its joint debut during a Philadelphia rally on Tuesday evening as the Democrats look to shore up the Blue Wall states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania. The US VP has already signaled that she would also contend in Sun Belt states that increasingly seemed out of reach for President Joe Biden. Her ascension to the party ticket and the enthusiasm it generated across racial and generational lines had forced mapmakers in both parties to redraw the battle lines of the campaign.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has registered as many as 5,297 cases under Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in the last 10 years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union government has informed the Parliament. Of these, convictions have been obtained in 40 cases and acquittal in three since 2014, the government said.

Of the total cases, as many as 4,467 were registered in the last six years between 2019 and 2024 after the PMLAs ambit was widened by the Union government through amendments, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai told Lok Sabha during the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament on August 6.

Also Read | SC notice to Centre on plea against PMLA amendments via Money Bill

The response comes a day before a three-judge special bench of the Supreme Court will on August 7 hear petitions seeking a review of its July 27, 2022 ruling upholding the constitutional validity of the PMLA, as amended from time to time including provisions dealing with the powers of the ED regarding arrest, search, attachment and seizure in money laundering offences.

The ED has filed as many as 132 money laundering cases against political leaders over the last six years, the government said. These include cases against the sitting and former lawmakers (MPs and MLAs) and other political leaders.

Rai said in the reply that as many as 188 cases were registered under the PMLA in 2019, 708 in 2020, 1,166 in 2021, 1,074 in 2022, 934 in 2023 and 397 cases until July 31 in 2024.

The minister said as many as 195 cases were registered in 2014, 148 in 2015, 170 in 2016 and 171 cases in 2017.

The PMLAs ambit was widened through amendments in 2009, 2013, 2015 and 2019. In 2009,criminal conspiracy under Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code was added to the PMLAs schedule among other offences. This has, over the years, allowed the ED to enter any case where a conspiracy is alleged, even if the principal offence is not part of the PMLA scedule.

Minister of state for finance Pankaj Chaudhary shared similar figures related to the Enforcement Directorate filing enforcement case information reports (ECIRs), cases under trial and convictions as part of a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

He gave a breakup of ECIRs recorded under the PMLA against "existing and ex-MPs, MLAs, MLCs and political leaders or anyone affiliated with any political party" between January 1, 2019 to July 31 this year.

As per the reply, the ED filed 15 ECIRs or money laundering cases in 2019 followed by 28 in 2020, 26 in 2021, 34 in 2022, 26 in 2023 and three in 2024 (till July 31).

The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and it was enacted in 2002 and implemented from July 1, 2005.

The minister also said that assets worth more than 1.39 lakh crore were either seized, frozen or attached under the law. "The total value of proceeds seized under PMLA is approximately 3,725.76 crore, frozen under PMLA is approximately 4,651.68 crore and attached under PMLA is approximately 1,31,375 crore," the minister said.
Asif Merchant, a Pakistani national alleged to have connections with Iran, was arrested in July 2024 for allegedly plotting to carry out assassinations of unidentified politicians or US government officials on American soil, the Justice Department said on Tuesday.

Asif Merchant planned to kill former President Donald Trump, reported Bloomberg.

According to the US Justice Department reports, Asif Merchant, 46, allegedly sought to hire a hitman to assassinate a politician or a US government official in retaliation for the US drone attack that killed Iranian military officer Qasem Soleimani in January 2020.

Who is Asif Merchant According to court documents, Asif Merchant is a Pakistani national. Media reports stated that he was born in Karachi in 1978. Asif Merchant has a wife and children in Iran and another family in Pakistan, mentioned FBI reports. The US Justice Department said that, according to his travel records, Asif Merchant frequently travelled to Iran, Syria and Iraq.

Also Read | Iran Wants Its Israel Retaliation to Hurt But Not Start a Wider War

4. Merchant had arrived in the US in April 2024 and contacted a person he believed could assist him with his assassination plots, according to FBI reports.

5. He then met with the man, who later reported Merchants conduct to law enforcement. In June, he became a confidential source in New York and explained Merchant's plan.

6. Merchant told the source that the opportunity he had for him was not one-time and would be ongoing - making a finger-gun motion with his hand indicating it was regarding a killing, the FBI said in a statement, reported Hindustan Times

7. Merchant had further informed the source (the alleged hitman) that his intended victims were in the US, adding that his plot involved multiple criminal schemes such as stealing documents or USB drives from a targets home. He also mentioned planning a protest and killing a politician or government official.

8. Merchant told the alleged hitman that the assassination would occur after he left the United States and he would communicate with him from overseas using code words, the FBI said.

9. According to the FBI statement, Merchant had plans to kill an official in the last week of August or the first week of September.
Bangladesh Crisis: Soon after Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister of Bangladesh and fled her country on August 5, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader from West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari said that Delhi should get ready to accommodate over one crore Hindus from the neighbouring country coming to India.

Adhikari, the leader of opposition in West Bengal, also met Union home minister Amit Shah in the national capital to flag the alleged attacks on minority Hindus in Bangladesh.

Adhikari's CAA Pitch Adhikari told Shah that the situation in Bangladesh highlights the significance of Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) amid reports of attacks on Hindu community in the neighbouring country. Shah is said to have told Adhikari that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union government is taking appropriate action in the matter, according to news agency PTI.

Bangladesh has plunged into political crisis after Hasina fled the country amid weeks-long protests against her government and family. Hasinas exit, ending her 15-year-rule, was followed by arson on the streets with the protesters vandalising residences, offices and other buildings associated with the former prime ministers party Awami League and her family. Several Hindu temples, including the ISKCON and Kali temples were reportedly destroyed.

The Hindus, who constitute eight per cent of Bangladesh's population of 17 crore, are said to have historically supported Awami League, founded by Hasina's father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Deb Barma flags 'Illegal' Movement In Tripura, however, senior leader and BJP ally, Pradyut Deb Barma sought an assurance from the Centre that any such influx from Bangladesh would be stopped.

The Tipra Motha Party chief expressed concern about protecting the borders saying Tripura, West Bengal, Meghalaya and Assam could face the repercussion as a "strong anti-India sentiment" was growing in the neighbouring country.

He later said that Home Minister Shah had assured him that the borders were well-guarded, to prevent any illegal movement. Tripura CM Manik Saha also said that no one will be allowed to enter India through borders

BSF officials said personnel guarding the 4,096 km borders with Bangladesh in Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Assam have been put on high alert to check possible influx due to the unrest.

The Outsider The CAA, notified in March, offers citizenship for persecuted minorities in Muslim-majority countries  Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan  who arrived in India by December 31, 2014.

While in West Bengal, the BJP keeps raising the CAA-related issues in West Bengal  the state with considerable number of Bangladeshi Hindu refugees  it has a different connotation in the Northeastern states, including Tripura, where protest against influx of outsiders is a strong political tool.

Not applicable to present Bangladesh crisis Anybody entering India due to the ongoing conflict in Bangladesh cannot apply for Indian citizenship under the CAA, as per the rules. This is because the Act specifies a cut-off date for people belonging religious minorities from the three countries to apply for Indian citizenship is December 31, 2014.

It is specifically for individuals who entered India on or before 31st December, 2014, and belonging to Hindu or Sikh or Buddhist or Jain or Parsi or Christian community from Pakistan or Afghanistan or Bangladesh, reads the Indian Citizesnhip Online Portal meant for applying for citizenship through CAA.

Mamata's Pro-Govt Stand Adhikari also took a jibe at Trinamool Congress saying that now everybody will have to acknowledge the need for the CAA. TMC chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had appealed to all, including political parties, to maintain calm saying that she would back any stand taken by the Centre on the issue. Clearly, Banerjee doesnt want to risk its Hindu voters, even as TMC has called the CAA as discriminatory towards Muslims.

Also Read | How a jobs protest toppled Bangladeshs iron lady

Earlier, external affairs minister S Jaishankar told Parliament that minorities, their businesses and temples coming under attack at multiple locations in Bangladesh was worrying.
NASA said on Wednesday it has "placed all the options on the table" while planning the return of its Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from space. In a media interaction on Thursday, an official of the US space agency said it has weighed-in on many options. One of those would ensure the return of the two astronauts to Earth in 2025. And this plan involves Boeing's rival SpaceX.

Steve Stich, manager, Commercial Crew Program, said NASA's prime option is to return Butch and Sunita on Starliner. "However, we have done requisite planning to make sure we have other options open," he said.

Stich said the NASA has been working with SpaceX. "We have been working with SpaceX to ensure that they are ready to respond on Crew 9... returning Butch and Suni on Crew 9 if we need that."

NASA announced the delay of SpaceX Crew 9 mission on Tuesday, pushing its launch from mid-August to 25 September this year. The will carry four crew members to the International Space Station (ISS).

These astronauts are supposed to arrive at the space station for a short duration handover with NASAs SpaceX Crew-8 mission. They will launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft.

Sunita Williams to return to Earth in 2025? Referring to this Crew 9 launch, the NASA official explained how they planned to bring the two Starliner astronauts back to Earth. This particularly aims at bringing back Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore by 2025.

He said, "We have set up the Dragon for Crew 9 to have flexibility, to have only two passengers fly up on that flight and then we can return four crew members in February 2025 time frame, and Butch and Suni would remain on station as part of that increment and return home with them on Crew 9."

He, however, mentioned, "We haven't approved this plan yet..."

The return of Starliner, which was supposed to return by mid-June, has been delayed following thruster and helium leak anomalies on the Starliner capsule docked at the ISS. Authorities in space and on ground are working the clock to find root cause of the Starliner's problem and plan a safe return of Sunita and Butch.

Starliner has since been docked at the International Space Station and has spent two months in space, with no return date.

Everything's not right with Starliner The NASA official said that Boeing's Starliner needs software configuration. "If we have to undock Starliner first in an uncrewed configuration, we have a task order in place to allow up to three crew members on the cargo pallet...in the Crew 8 dragon," the NASA official said.

Also Read | NASA spacecraft carrying Sunita Williams needs to be back before August 18

"Starliner has the capability to undock in an uncrewed configuration...the software on Starliner is fineit can actually handle the capability to do an uncrewed undock...however, we just have to configure some software parameters...," the official added.
Did issues with Boeing's Starliner delay SpaceX Crew 9 launch? The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announced on Tuesday that it has decided to postpone the launch of the agencys Crew-9 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) by a month. The Crew 9 launch has now been pushed to September 24.

NASA hopes that the move will give them more time to evaluate Boeing's Starliner spacecraft's readiness.

"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," a NASA press release read.

It added, "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 and Boeing continue to evaluate the spacecrafts readiness, and no decisions have been made regarding Starliners return," the release said.

The Starliner capsule brought two NASA astronauts  Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore  to the ISS on June 6. It's return has been delayed due to anomalies detected in its propulsion system during its flight.

The mission was expected to return by mid-June. However, the return has now spent two months in space, with the mission's return date still being uncertain.

The Starliner Crew Flight Test (CFT) is the first-ever astronaut mission of Boeing's new Starliner capsule.

It was widely speculated that the SpaceX Crew 9 launch will be delayed amid uncertainty over the Starliner's return from space. It's said that there are no free docking ports at the ISS to accommodate the Crew-9 mission until the Starliner or Crew-8s Dragon spacecraft depart the ISS.

The SpaceX flight was supposed to carry out the next group of four ISS crew members, dubbed Crew-9, in mid-August, to relieve the current foursome known as "Crew-8" currently aboard the space station.

The Crew-9 flight is now scheduled to liftoff by September 24 at the earliest. It could bring back the two astronauts  Williams and Wilmore, and only two Crew-8 members, giving Boeing more time to fix issues with its spacecraft.

"NASA and SpaceX are targeting no earlier than Tuesday, Sept. 24, for the launch of the agencys Crew-9 mission to the International Space Station," a press release from NASA read.
The earliest-known depiction of workers in a printing shop dates to 1499. In the image, which was printed in France by Mathias Huss, four men are trying to get on with the business of composing type and pressing pages, but theyre impeded in their work by a cohort of grinning skeletons. The skeletons have invaded the shop as part of the allegorical danse macabre" that was popular in the late medieval period and that reminded people of every station that death comes to all.

This striking image is reproduced in The Book-Makers," Adam Smyths crowded prismatic history of book creation. Death touches the printers," Mr. Smyth remarks, but it does not touch the printed books, and if this is an allegory of human mortality, it is also an early statement of the capacity of print to live on."

About the time Huss was publishing the scene with the skeletons, an Alsatian-born printer named Wynkyn de Worde was establishing himself in London. De Worde begins Mr. Smyths narrative, which the author tells through the lives of mostly lesser-known men and women. De Worde would become one of the most prolific printers of his age.

By the time de Worde was cranking out books on Fleet Streetin the 16th century a rising center of the printed wordit had been about 50 years since Johannes Gutenberg, in Mainz, had invented the mechanical movable-type printing press and sparked a bibliographic revolution. Machine-manufacture has connotations of easy productivity, almost a kind of sterile bloodlessness, but Mr. Smyths account reminds us that making books was both laborious and noisome.

To conjure the atmosphere of de Wordes printing room, Mr. Smyth describes a terrific stink: from bodies printing 250 sheets an hour for twelve-hour days; from the strongly alkali lye, bubbling in a tub, used to clean the lead type; . . . from the linseed oil boiling in a cauldron over logs, nearly ready to be mixed with carbon and amber resin to make ink; and from the buckets of urine in which the inking balls leather covers soak and soften overnight." (Inking balls were sheepskin-covered orbs of wool used to apply pigment to metal type.) Binding was almost as fragrant, with its hot animal glue," and violent too: Binders flattened sheaves of paper by whacking them with hammers.

Mr. Smyth, a professor of history at Oxford University, clearly delights in his subject. He has a phenomenal amount to tell us about all manner of things: about printing and binding and typefaces and paper; about small presses and subversive presses; about people careless of aesthetic values and people whove striven to make books of exquisite beauty. Bibliophiles can hardly be indifferent to the gorgeous, clean look of pages from the 19th-century Doves Press, with the signature typeface that its founder, Thomas Cobden-Sanderson, modeled on letters from works printed in 15th-century Venice.

So enthusiastic is Mr. Smyth that the reader may on occasion be impressed to the point of stupefaction, like a shy guest at dinner with a bibulous raconteur. Almost every pagealmost every paragraphfizzes with facts, allusions, speculations, tidbits of etymology and gems of historical interest. To emphasize the importance of a rediscovered Shakespeare folio, Mr. Smyth writes: The Wildgoose First Folios arrival is an occasion to be placed alongside the great theatrical revivals of Shakespeares plays after the reopening of the theatres closed between 1642 and 1660; the appearance of editions of Shakespeares works in the eighteenth century, beginning with Nicholas Rowe in 1709 and Lewis Theobald in 1733; and later cultural celebrations such as actor David Garricks 1769 Stratford Shakespeare Jubilee which, despite torrential rain on day two (the grand pageant called off), to a considerable degree invented the idea of Shakespeare as a tourist commodity, and of Stratford as a destination for the Bard-struck." You see how it is: Wonderful specificity, but a lot for a single sentence.

Yet the diligent reader will be rewarded. It is charming to learn of John Baskerville, who in the mid-18th century devised the elegant typeface that bears his name, and of his wife, Sarah Eaves, whose name graces a 20th-century digital font called Mrs Eaves." Charming too is the disclosure that after Baskerville died in 1775 Eaves sold his type punches," as the metal letter-holders were known, to the French playwright Beaumarchais, who used them to print a celebrated 168-volume edition of Voltaire." It is interesting to learn that paper as we know it was probably invented early in second-century China by a court official named Tsai Lun. Arabs made paper too, the author relates (taking a moment to jab Europeans for appropriating paper as their own"), but by the 18th century paper making had diminished massively" in the Islamic world.

It is also somehow touching that a machine patented in France in 1799, which would revolutionize paper production, replicated small gestures of the human workers it replaced. Like a person, the machine dipped little buckets into a vat of liquid pulp and poured their contents onto a framed wire mesh to drain. Mr. Smyth writes: And where the vatman or vatwoman, with a movement so often repeated that it became instinctual, shakes the frame forward-to-back and then left-to-right to make the fibres clasp together, [the] machine performed a side-to-side shake."

Having taken us into all sorts of odd corners of the history of the physical book, The Book-Makers" ends with a handful of modern (mostly English, mostly leftist) creators of printed material, such as pamphlets and photocopied zines, who have challenged the traditional printed volume. The internet, of course, is doing the same thing, but Mr. Smyth, for one, is unworried: Print and digital need not be placed in an antagonistic relation to one another." To borrow from the old Egyptian scribes: So let it be written, so let it be done.

Mrs. Gurdon, a Journal contributor, is the author of The Enchanted Hour: The Miraculous Power of Reading Aloud in the Age of Distraction."
Dubai-based fintech innovator Avenix Fzco has announced the release of GigaPips, a cutting-edge forex robot designed for the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform. This advanced Expert Advisor (EA) focuses on trading Gold (XAU/USD) on the H1 timeframe, utilizing a sophisticated BreakOut strategy to maximize trading potential.

GigaPips: Pioneering Forex Trading Technology GigaPips represents a significant leap forward in automated trading solutions. This forex robot employs a unique approach to identify daily ranges in Gold and executes trades upon retracement. By combining technical indicators and candlestick patterns, GigaPips confirms trade directions with precision, offering traders a powerful tool for consistent results.

Key Features of GigaPips: 1. BreakOut Strategy: GigaPips leverages a meticulously crafted BreakOut strategy tailored for Gold trading on the H1 timeframe. This approach allows the forex robot to capitalize on high-probability market movements, ensuring trades align with market momentum.

2. Advanced Technical Analysis: The EA incorporates multiple technical indicators and candlestick patterns to validate trade directions, enhancing entry accuracy and overall trading reliability.

3. Risk Management: GigaPips prioritizes trader safety with built-in Stop Loss and Take Profit levels for each trade. The system also includes a global stop out level, providing an additional layer of account protection.

4. Multi-Order Management: Capable of managing up to six open orders simultaneously, GigaPips offers diversified market exposure and increased profit opportunities.

5. Optimized Performance: Extensive backtesting and optimization using high-quality tick data from 2016 to present ensure GigaPips performs optimally across various market conditions.

Technical Specifications Timeframe and Asset: GigaPips is specifically designed for trading Gold (XAU/USD) on the H1 timeframe, allowing for precise market analysis and timely trade execution.

Platform Compatibility: The forex robot is fully compatible with the widely-used MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform, ensuring accessibility for traders of all experience levels.

Backtesting and Optimization: GigaPips has undergone rigorous backtesting using high-quality tick data from Tick Data Suite by Thinkberry SRL, covering market conditions from 2016 to present.

User Interface: The EA boasts a user-friendly interface, making it easy to install and operate on the MT4 platform, catering to both novice and experienced traders.

Support and Services: Avenix Fzco offers comprehensive customer support for GigaPips users, ensuring a smooth trading experience. The support team is readily available to assist with installation, setup, and any technical issues that may arise.

About Avenix Fzco Avenix Fzco is a trailblazing financial technology company based in Dubai, UAE. Specializing in advanced forex trading software development, the company is dedicated to empowering traders with cutting-edge tools that prioritize precision, risk management, and intelligent functionality. With the release of GigaPips, Avenix Fzco continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation in the forex trading space. Traders interested in experiencing the power of this revolutionary forex robot are encouraged to visit the official GigaPips website for more information and to explore its capabilities firsthand.
Forexeko is the newest forex robot software from Avenix Fzco, a forward-thinking fintech business with headquarters in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Specifically created for the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform, this high-tech Expert Advisor (EA) is intended for XAUUSD trades on the M30 timeframe. With Forexeko, automated trading technology has advanced significantly and traders now have a smart tool to help them succeed in their forex journeys.

Fundamental Advantages of Forexeko Precise Market Analysis: With its multifaceted approach to market analysis, Forexeko combines built-in indicators, in-depth market analysis, and price action. With price action analysis, this forex robot continuously scans the market to find broad trends. Additionally, it makes use of oscillators and moving averages to identify the best times to enter the market and steer clear of adverse circumstances.

Advanced Candlestick Pattern Recognition: The capacity of Forexeko to identify and decipher particular candlestick patterns is one of its most notable qualities. Because of this feature, the EA can predict market sentiment and possible reversals extremely accurately. To make trading decisions, the software only considers dependable and actionable patterns after eliminating exotic candles.

Reliable Risk Management: Forexeko places a high priority on trader security thanks to its extensive risk management tools. The forex robot executes trades with predetermined levels for Take Profit and Stop Loss, giving each position a clear exit strategy. The Expert Advisor upholds a positive risk-reward ratio by establishing Take Profit thresholds that surpass Stop Loss thresholds. Forexeko further reduces exposure by only opening one order at a time.

Global Stop Levels: Global stop levels are integrated into Forexeko to further improve trader protection. This feature provides an additional layer of security to the trading process by protecting against large market movements.

Optimized Performance: Forexeko has been subjected to extensive optimization using premium tick data from Thinkberry SRL, the creators of the well-known Tick Data Suite tool, from 2016 to the present. The outcome of this painstaking process is a forex robot that strikes a balance between risk management and profitability, delivering consistent and dependable performance.

User-Friendly Design: Forexeko has sophisticated features, but it still has an easy-to-use interface that can be used by both new and tenured traders. All levels of traders can use the EA because of its simple setup and management procedures.

Reasons to Choose Forexeko Automated XAUUSD Trading: Forexeko provides a targeted approach to gold trading, specializing in trading XAUUSD on the M30 timeframe.

Forexeko provides a targeted approach to gold trading, specializing in trading XAUUSD on the M30 timeframe. Trend Identification: To recognize and profit from market trends, the forex robot uses advanced algorithms.

To recognize and profit from market trends, the forex robot uses advanced algorithms. Overbought/Oversold Analysis: Forexeko employs oscillators to steer clear of trades when the market is overbought or oversold.

Forexeko employs oscillators to steer clear of trades when the market is overbought or oversold. Candlestick Pattern Trading: The EA uses particular candlestick patterns to guide its trade selections and identify the best times to enter the market.

The EA uses particular candlestick patterns to guide its trade selections and identify the best times to enter the market. Risk Management: Stop Loss, Take Profit, and Global stop levels are just a few of the many risk management tools that Forexeko offers.

Stop Loss, Take Profit, and Global stop levels are just a few of the many risk management tools that Forexeko offers. Optimized Settings: Performance and risk management are enhanced by the pre-configured settings of the forex robot. About Avenix Fzco Forward-thinking fintech startup Avenix Fzco has its main office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The company focuses on accuracy, risk reduction, and intelligent functionality when creating cutting-edge software solutions for forex trading. The innovative designs of Avenix Fzco's forex robots, which feature intuitive user interfaces, robust analytical capabilities, and real-time market insights, demonstrate the company's dedication to innovation. In addition to developing software, the business supports an open and cooperative trading community where members can exchange ideas and develop as a group. Avenix Fzco continues to provide traders with state-of-the-art tools by releasing Forexeko. Check out the following website to learn more about Forexeko and other cutting-edge trading options.
More than 80 years after he died in Europe serving his country, Lewistons Allan Knepper will officially be laid to rest this week in his hometown.

A funeral for Knepper, a World War II pilot who was shot down and killed July 10, 1943, is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday at Normal Hill Cemetery in Lewiston. He will be interred with full military honors, and the public is welcome to attend.

Knepper was a 27-year-old second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Air Forces when his P-38 Lightning was shot down on the Italian island of Sicily. His body wasnt recovered at the time.

But in 2011, author Robert Richardson, of Spokane, started to research Knepper for a book he was writing. Knepper and Richardsons father, Leonard, were civilian pilots and friends in Lewiston, and joined the military together in Spokane.

Richardson eventually focused on finding Kneppers remains. With help from Shirley Finn, Kneppers half-sister; other World War II pilots; and an Italian man, Salvatore Fagone, who had spoken to people who had possibly witnessed Kneppers plane go down, Richardson managed to convince the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to attempt a recovery effort.

In May, the DPAA announced Knepper had finally been accounted for Aug. 10, 2023.
A 35-year-old Lewiston man was sentenced to 3 to 9 years in prison after being found guilty by trial of aggravated battery.

Zachary B. Wheeler was convicted by a jury of aggravated battery for striking Christian Reel on the left forearm and/or behind the left ear with a bat over a dispute about using a vehicle that Reel co-owned with Wheelers girlfriend. Wheeler was also charged with aggravated assault in the case, but that charge was dismissed, according to court documents.

Wheeler was sentenced July 31 by 2nd District Judge Mark Monson at the Nez Perce County Courthouse to serve 3 to 9 years in prison; after 3 years he could be eligible for parole and the total sentence wouldnt exceed 10 years. He was also given credit for 274 days served. Wheeler will pay $245.50 in court costs, $5,000 to Reel and $1,320.90 for damage to the vehicle, according to court documents.

The maximum penalty is 15 years in prison as well as a $50,000 fine.
DEI for the GOP

The Electoral College and U.S. Senate are diversity, equity and inclusion for Republicans.

Karen Ransom

Clarkston

Snake River still flows

In a recent Tri-City Herald article, the spokesperson for American Rivers United states, The lower Snake River dams turned what was a free-flowing river into a series of still-water reservoirs that act like a bathtub left in the sun, continuing to increase water temperatures and exacerbating climate change through emissions of methane.

Nothing could be further from the truth. The Snake River is still a flowing river. All of the dams are river-run dams and water comes in and water goes out continually. The problem with the temperature comes from upriver dams much more than the lower Snake dams. Water out of upriver reservoirs that flows out of Hells Canyon dam is in excess of 70 degrees. These Idaho Power-generating dams are the lifeblood of the customers ... and the people of Idaho who benefit from this want to blame the federally constructed and managed dams when the real problem of water temperature and decline in wild fish-spawning habitat is the fault of upper Snake River dams with no fish passage.

According to The Washington Post, Washington state has the cleanest carbon-free power in the nation, thanks mostly to hydroelectric generation. Take away four lower Snake River dams with six generators in each dam and only one normally in operation because of a required spill order from a judge who knows nothing about fish passage, except from those who want to kill the fish with excess gas saturation and blame the dams: What do you think the results will be?

Marvin Entel

Clarkston

A little too convenient?
Vice President Kamala Harris has made a decision on her running mate, with four people close to the process saying Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota is her choice.
Freeport Man Sentenced to Up to 12 Years in Prison for Drunken Crash that Killed Six-Year-Old Child

Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: August 07 2024

Jorge Bonilla Gutierrez was more than two times the legal limit, ran through a red light, and crashed into victims vehicle on Hempstead Turnpike.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Freeport man was sentenced today to six to 12 years in prison for an August 2023 crash in West Hempstead that killed a six-year-old girl.

Jorge Bonilla Gutierrez, 19, pleaded guilty on June 5, 2024, before Judge Terence Murphy to Manslaughter in the Second Degree (a C felony); Assault in the Second Degree (a D violent felony); two counts of Assault in the Third Degree (an A misdemeanor); and Driving While Intoxicated Per Se (an unclassified misdemeanor).

The defendant was sentenced today to six to 12 years in prison. NCDA recommended a sentence of six to 15 years in prison.

Katerine Vanegas Hernandez was a bright light in her family, a best friend to her little brother, and a happy child excited to celebrate her seventh birthday in just two short days. This defendant, driving drunk and recklessly on Hempstead Turnpike, stole young Katerines life when he struck her mothers car and tore apart this close and loving family, said DA Donnelly. Katerines loss  so senselessly and tragically at the hands of a drunk driver  is unfathomable. Our thoughts remain with her mother and brother as they continue to mourn. Halfway through the summer season it bears repeating: do not drink and get behind the wheel. Do not destroy another family.

DA Donnelly said that, on August 7, 2023, at approximately 2:20 a.m., the defendant was intoxicated, speeding, and drove through a red light when he crashed into the rear of the victims vehicle. The victims car, a Toyota Corolla, was stopped in the right lane of Hempstead Turnpike, near Westminster Road, with the hazard lights on. The force of the impact sent the Corolla off the roadway and into a tree, while the defendants vehicle, a Nissan Pathfinder, flipped multiple times.

Bonilla Gutierrez slammed into the rear drivers side of the stationary vehicle, causing significant internal injuries to passenger six-year-old Katerine Vanegas Hernandez. The child was taken to NYU Langone Long Island Hospital and died shortly afterwards.

Katerine was killed two days before her seventh birthday. The victims five-year-old brother suffered a fractured spine, while the driver of the Corolla suffered multiple broken ribs.

The defendant was apprehended by a member of the Nassau County Police Department near the crash scene. Empty beer cans were observed inside the defendants vehicle and next to the vehicle at the crash scene.

Bonilla Gutierrez was transported to Nassau University Medical Center for broken ribs and a broken nose.

A search warrant for the defendants blood taken at the hospital revealed that his blood alcohol content was 0.17% one hour after the crash.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: August 07 2024

States Two Signature Downtown Revitalization and Economic Development Programs Have Awarded $1 Billion in Funding to 124 Communities Since 2016.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $200 million in funding is available through the States two signature downtown revitalization and economic development programs  $100 million each for Round 8 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Round 3 of the NY Forward program, which focuses on revitalizing smaller and rural downtowns. Together, the two programs have awarded $1 billion in funding to 124 communities across every region of the State since 2016. Applications are available through the States Consolidated Funding Application Portal beginning at 4:30 p.m. on August 6. The deadline to apply is October 18, 2024, at 4 p.m.

"With strategic economic development investments, we're building vibrant downtowns that are attracting businessesand residents to every region of New York," Governor Hochul said. "The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are reinvigorating downtowns and transforming our communities into world-class destinations for businesses, families and tourists."

New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, New York State is home to so many communities with rich histories and charm, and our Downtown Revitalization and NY Forward programs are helping to transform those communities into hubs of activity while retaining the characteristics that make them so unique. This $200 million in funding will help an additional 29 downtown communities turn their visions of revitalization into a reality, in turn spurring local and regional economies and strengthening all of New York State.

The Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) was launched in 2016 to accelerate and bolster the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all 10 regions of the State to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for increased local investments. Led by the Department of State (DOS), DRI communities benefit from partnerships with and coordinated technical assistance provided by the Department of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR), Empire State Development (ESD) and the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA). The DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative "plan-then-act" strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation. For DRI Round 8, joint applications of two to three contiguous communities in the same REDC region with a single unified vision will be accepted.

To receive funding from either the DRI or NY Forward program, localities must be certified under Governor Hochul's Pro-Housing Communities Program  an innovative policy designed to reward local governments that are working hard to address New Yorks housing crisis. Localities must have at least submitted a letter of intent to become a pro-housing community prior to applying for funding through DRI or NY Forward and must be certified before receiving an award through either program.

To date, DRI has awarded a total of $800 million to 81 communities in its first seven rounds and invested in the creation of over 4,500 new housing units. It is estimated that every dollar invested in the DRI generates $3 in additional investments as the revitalization accelerates and projects are completed. This catalytic effect will continue well after DRI and NY Forward communities complete all their projects.

First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The innovative program, which is funded at $100 million in this year's Enacted State Budget, supports a more equitable downtown recovery for New York's smaller and rural communities with a focus on hamlet and villages. NY Forward is meant to serve smaller communities and support local economies that often have a feel and charm that is distinct from larger, metropolitan urban centers funded through DRI. To date, NY Forward has awarded a total of $200 million to 43 communities over two rounds.

Like DRI, DOS and an assigned consultant will work with NY Forward communities through a planning and technical assistance process to develop a slate of readily implementable projects. NY Forward differs, however, by providing one-to-one technical assistance from consultants to assist communities in developing their full applications and throughout the implementation process. NY Forward offers two $4.5 million awards for each region. Recognizing the unique scale and density of New York City neighborhoods, New York City NY Forward funding is being combined with NYC DRI funding to permit one $20 million DRI award.

The similarities and differences between the DRI and NY Forward programs are further described in an educational brochure, which is available on the DRI and NY Forward websites.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Strategic investments in community development are vital to creating engaging and dynamic neighborhoods that welcome residents and visitors and support small businesses. Under Governor Hochul's leadership, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs continue to generate growth and new energy in urban cores all throughout the State."

Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with more than $1 billion in awards, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By partnering with local and municipal expertise, Governor Hochul continues her commitment to incentivizing investments, increasing the housing supply, and developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers of regional success.

NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, Revitalizing the downtowns of urban and rural communities across the State provides the opportunity to modernize older buildings into comfortable, sustainable, and energy efficient multi-use spaces. The unwavering investments made through these critical initiatives are creating vibrant neighborhoods in New York that that are walkable, healthy and provide a strong backbone for economic growth.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: August 07 2024

Reginald Law, 38, and his conspirator, Maurice Cottman, dragged the victim from the store, threw him into the back of a U-Haul truck, and drove him from Paterson to New York.

A Queens, New York, man today admitted his role in a Paterson, New Jersey, kidnapping, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.

Reginald Law, 38, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin in Newark federal court to an indictment charging him with kidnapping and Hobbs Act robbery.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

On Oct. 8, 2020, Law and his conspirator, Maurice Cottman, entered a retail store in Paterson, where they accosted the victim, who was working in the store. Law and Cottman dragged the victim from the store, threw him into the back of a U-Haul truck, and drove him from Paterson to New York. The victim suffered serious bodily injury from the kidnapping. Law admitted that during the kidnapping, he and Cottman called the victims family, told them that he had the victim, and demanded ransom for his return.

That afternoon, law enforcement officers saw the U-Haul parked in Harlem, New York. When the officers approached, Law and Cottman fled in the U-Haul and a motor-vehicle pursuit ensued. Law and Cottman crashed the U-Haul and tried to flee on foot. Officers apprehended Cottman, but Law got away. Officers retrieved the victim from the back of the U-Haul. Law was a fugitive until his arrest on May 26, 2021.

The kidnapping charged in Count One is punishable by a maximum penalty of life in prison. The Hobbs Act robbery charged in Count Two is punishable by a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Both are also punishable by a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross loss or gain, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 7, 2025.

Cottman previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler to an Information charging him with one count of kidnapping. On March 29, 2022, Judge Chesler sentenced Cottman to 15 years in prison with five years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea. He also thanked the FBI New York Field Office and the Paterson Police Department for their assistance.
Hamas has appointed Yahya Sinwar, aka Abu Ibrahim, as the new politburo chief and overall leader of the terrorist organization. A terse statement issued by Hamas on August 6 announced Sinwars selection, describing him as a successor to the late Ismail Haniyeh.

The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) announces the selection of Leader Yahya Sinwar as head of the movements political bureau, succeeding its martyr and leader Ismail Haniyeh, may Allah have mercy on him, said Hamas.

In response to Hamas announcement, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari reiterated Israels stance on Yahya Sinwar.

Yahya Sinwar is a terrorist who is responsible for the most brutal terrorist attack in historyOctober 7th. 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, said Hagari.

On August 2, Hamas issued a statement detailing that it was in the process of selecting a new leader to replace Haniyeh.

The Hamas movement is known for its high institutionalism and firm consultation, which was reflected in the facts and events during the past decades that witnessed the martyrdom of a number of its leaders, as it was quick to choose alternatives for them according to the movements regulations and systems, and with the martyrdom of brother leader Haniyeh, the Hamas leadership began a broad consultation process within its leadership and Shura institutions to choose a new head for the movement, the group stated.

The Shura Council is a confidential consultative group made up of officials chosen by Hamas members across four sectors: Gaza, the West Bank, the diaspora, and prisoners in Israeli prisons. Originally a primarily religious entity, it has also evolved to include influential political and social figures.

Following Sinwars appointment, Hezbollah and other terrorist groups allied with Hamas issued congratulatory statements to Yahya Sinwar.

Yahya Sinwars exact whereabouts are currently unknown, but he is likely hiding in the network of tunnels beneath Gaza.

Joe Truzman is an editor and senior research analyst at FDD's Long War Journal focused primarily on Palestinian armed groups and non-state actors in the Middle East.
Apple, along with Google, will be addressing a browser security vulnerability thats been around for nearly 20 years, according to a report by Forbes (paid subscription required). The breach is being presented by cybersecurity firm Oglio at Def Con later this week and involves an IP address with a special purpose.

Devices connected to the internet use IP addresses for device and location identification, and the IP address 0.0.0.0 is used for special circumstances (its usually used as a stand-in address until the actual address is available). Oglio researcher found that hackers have been exploiting the way Safari, Chrome, and Firefox handle queries to a 0.0.0.0 IP address. According to Forbes, the browsers send the queries to other IP addresses, including localhost, a server on a network or computer that is typically private and is often used to test in-development code. A hacker can send a request to the address to get private data.

Today is Amazon Prime Big Deal Days! Our editorial team lists the best tech deals here. ]

Forbes confirmed with Apple that Safari in macOS Sequoia will block any website attempting to contact the 0.0.0.0 IP address. Google has a blog post that describes its plans to do a similar thing with Chrome. Mozilla told Forbes that it does not have plans to block 0.0.0.0 queries in Mozilla, but the company is researching the issue.

Since the fix is based on Safari and not OS based, it will be included in Safari 18 when it becomes available for older versions of macOS, such as Sonoma and Ventura.

How to protect yourself from hacker attacks

Apple has protections in place within macOS and the company releases security patches through OS updates, so its important to install them when they are available. If Apple pulls back an update, the company will reissue it as soon as it is properly revised with corrections.

Macworld has several guides to help, including a guide on whether or not you need antivirus software, a list of Mac viruses, malware, and trojans, and a comparison of Mac security software.
Manchester, VT (05254)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning. Increasing clouds with periods of showers this afternoon. High around 55F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Cloudy with rain ending overnight. Low around 40F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Far-right rioting has spread across Britain, with fascist gangs launching pogroms against Muslim and Asian communities. Appeals for calm will not suffice. To eradicate this scourge, organised workers and youth must take militant mass action.

[Originally published at communist.red]

Barbarism hit the streets of Britain over the weekend, as lynch mobs marauded around towns and cities across the country, targeting migrants, Muslims, and other minorities.

Following last weeks riots in Southport, Hartlepool, Sunderland, and elsewhere, far-right violence spread to dozens of other locations on Saturday and Sunday, including Blackburn, Leicester, Stoke-on-Trent, and Belfast.

Shocking, savage scenes were witnessed in places like Rotherham, Hull, Liverpool, and more, as fascist gangs attacked asylum-seeker accommodation, alongside local Asian shops and residents.

In South Yorkshire, a 700-strong masked mob  wrapped in Union Jacks and waving St. Georges flags  stormed and torched the Rotherham Holiday Inn Express, used to house refugees.

Footage from Hull showed thugs pulling a man out of his car and smashing it up, because of the colour of his skin. In Manchester, far-right hooligans beat up a black passer-by, while the police watched on from the sidelines.

These explicitly racist attacks came on top of a wave of rioting and looting, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake in town centres and working-class communities.

This is Hull



Kill them



Shouts from the crowd as they try to pull the driver out of the car this afternoon

pic.twitter.com/J9sfHYV63F  Tui   (@moon_treacle) August 3, 2024

A lynch mob from the 50s?



No, this is Manchester today, a ratio of probably 50 far-right cowards attacking one Black man.



This hate isnt t just about Muslims, it's about anyone who isn't whiteBut apparently theyre still not racisthttps://t.co/3P3s4aJqQH  Save Our Citizenships  (@LetsStopC9) August 3, 2024

Establishment to blame

These far-right rampages have caused alarm and fear amongst British Muslims and other groups being targeted by these pogroms. More widely, ordinary workers and youth are wanting to know how to fight back, in order to eradicate this menace that is running amok in our neighbourhoods.

These explosive events are not exactly what Sir Keir Starmer and his cabinet had in mind for their first month in power / Image: The Communist

This maelstrom of violent disorder is also causing panic amongst the ruling class and its representatives. These explosive events are not exactly what Sir Keir Starmer and his cabinet had in mind for their first month in power.

The partys main electoral pitch was that an incoming Labour government would restore stability for British capitalism, after years of Tory chaos.

Indeed, while fires rage across the country, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has been meeting with Wall Street bankers to promote the UK as an investment opportunity for American billionaires.

But the bosses and their champions will not get the stability they crave. Instead, Britains rotten establishment is reaping the whirlwind for its endless migrant bashing, Islamophobia, and culture war campaigns.

These ladies and gentlemen can decry the terrifying violence that has erupted over the last week all they like. And they can point the finger at demagogues like Nigel Farage and Tommy Robinson for stirring up these protests.

But they and their decrepit system are responsible for spewing racist poison into society from the top, and for creating the fertile soil of poverty, deprivation, and misery in which the far right thrives.

And this includes Starmers Labour, which has constantly aped the Tories and Farage when it comes to the question of migration, with disgusting promises to stop the boats and deport Bangladeshis.

The whole lot of them are to blame for this potential inferno. And there is no chance of the arsonists putting out the flames that they have fanned and stoked.

Neither Starmer, nor the police

The new PM and his ministers have pledged to come down hard on far-right extremists, with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper promising to deliver swift justice and take whatever action is needed to keep streets safe.

Already, almost 400 arrests have been made relating to the rioting seen over the last week.

Similarly, having whipped up hatred and xenophobia against asylum-seekers during their time in office, a host of former Tory home secretaries have lined up to hypocritically condemn the violence that is now playing out across the UK.

Dame Priti Patel, for example, one of the key architects of the Tories hostile environment, denounced the extraordinary criminality being perpetrated. And outgoing head of the Home Office (and Conservative leadership candidate) James Cleverly asserted that rioters should expect to be met with the full weight of the law.

But more police, faster convictions, and tougher sentencing will do nothing to eliminate this far-right threat. And not only because the apparatus of the British state  from courts to prisons  are already bursting at the seams.

The police  capitalisms armed bodies of men  exist to protect the ruling class property and privileges, not working-class communities. Their job is to uphold the broken status quo that has given rise to this far-right scourge.

And as a key pillar of the capitalist establishment, the police are themselves racist and abusive to the core, as seen recently at Manchester airport.

Neither Starmers government nor the police can be relied upon to defend us against the far right. In fact, any beefing up of the states powers today will be used against the working class and left-wing activists tomorrow.

Organisation and mobilisation

Faced with this Islamophobic intimidation, and real danger of physical harm, local Muslim and Asian communities are taking matters into their own hands.

Videos from Stoke, for example, show a large group of youth defending the local mosque and chasing the far right away. Similarly, in Blackburn, Middlesbrough, and elsewhere, Muslim residents have organised patrols to protect against racist gangs.

In Bristol, meanwhile, local activists were able to push back EDL supporters who were trying to attack a refugee hotel. And in many cases, volunteers have come out in the aftermath of these riots to offer solidarity and support: cleaning streets; boarding up broken windows; and repairing damage to mosques and shops.

Unfortunately, however, these courageous efforts have largely been spontaneous, with little involvement or backing from the labour movement.

The establishment and its mouthpieces are cynically trying to equate these two camps: on one side, the forces of reaction, who are spreading bigotry and carrying out racist assaults; on the other, ordinary communities mobilising to defend themselves.

Appealing for calm, these hypocrites denounce aggression on both sides. But besieged communities have every right to defend themselves against this fascist threat by any means necessary. Local residents are completely correct in confronting the far right head on, and driving them off our streets.

Scandalously, even so-called left leaders have criticised local Muslims and Asians for militantly mobilising against the far right, with reports of counter-demo organisers raising criticism about the use of fighting tactics.

We must be clear, however: in this context, with reactionary thugs on the rampage, pacifist pleas for moderation and unity will only play into the far rights hands, leaving them unimpeded to torment minorities and wreak havoc.

Instead of leaving self-organised Asian groups isolated to fend for themselves, the labour and trade union movement should be offering their full support to this fightback: calling on activists to join these grassroots initiatives; providing material and financial resources; and helping to establish defence committees that can protect anti-racist protests and targeted buildings.

This should be linked to the organisation of proper anti-fascist campaigns in every town, borough, and city.

As a first step, local meetings should be called of trusted activists from the workers movement, Palestine encampments, solidarity groups, Asian youth, and revolutionary organisations, in order to discuss, decide, and carry out concrete points and tasks.

This includes gathering information and intelligence about the far rights plans; mobilising workers and youth en masse in response to any threats; and carrying out any other political and technical tasks needed as part of this struggle against the fascists and the far right.

Class struggle

On this basis, the far right could easily be stopped in their tracks, turned back, and sent running with their tail between their legs  just as was seen with Mosleys Blackshirts at the Battle of Cable Street in 1936.

And with reports of widespread attacks on migrant-related targets across the county planned for this coming Wednesday, it is vital that the movement acts quickly to extinguish this far-right blaze before it grows and spreads.

These far-right mobs are a genuine threat. And left unchecked, they will become emboldened.

At the same time, they are relatively small in their numbers. If the full weight and strength of the organised working class was mobilised against them, they could be smashed to pieces.

The labour movement and the left must take up this mantle.

Unfortunately, however, this is not the perspective or approach of the trade union leaders, or of campaigns like Stand Up To Racism. Instead, they hope for a quiet life; for order to be restored, economic growth to resume, and working-class communities to gain a few extra scraps from the richmans table.

Their entire strategy is based on moralistic appeals to open borders and welcome refugees, not on mass action and united class struggle. Their outlook, meanwhile, is restricted by their woolly, reformist politics; by a utopian belief in a nicer, kinder form of capitalism, which they hope will deliver the goods for the working class, the vulnerable, and the oppressed.

Such ideas and illusions offer no solution. Instead, they merely sow confusion, disarming and disorientating workers and youth  precisely at a time when clarity and audacity is required.

Fight for revolution

What is needed is a revolutionary programme, combined with militant, class-struggle methods.

This is what comrades of the Revolutionary Communist Party have been pushing for in local anti-racist movements across the country (see reports below).

Whether it be these racist riots in England, the rise of Trump in the USA and Le Pen in France, or the genocide in Gaza and the escalating conflict in the Middle East: we must understand what these events represent.

Only by correctly diagnosing the disease can we hope to find the necessary cure.

All of these horrors are a reflection of the same underlying process: the impasse, sickness, and decay of capitalism, in Britain and globally; the collapse of the liberal centre ground, and the growing hatred towards the establishment that defends it; and the resultant polarisation in society, with volatile swings to the right and the left, as the masses grasp for a way forward.

As long as capitalism remains, with reactionary opportunists like Farage able to prey on working-class concerns around jobs and housing, the racist far right will continue to fester in societys open wounds.

To weed out the far right and fascism, once and for all, we must uproot the rotten system in which they spawn. This means getting organised, building the forces of communism, and joining the fight for revolution.

The alternative is clear: either the struggle for socialism is successful, or the barbarism of racist reaction and imperialist war will continue to plague the planet.

That is the essential meaning of recent events, in Britain and internationally, which we must understand and act upon.

Sheffield

The far right called a protest in Sheffield on Sunday. Only a small handful turned up, however, and these were turned away by a much larger counter-protest.

Many speeches were given about the need to mobilise in large numbers to stop the fascists, and commenting on the tragic situation that was unfolding in Rotherham at that very moment.

Some speakers called for working class unity, arguing that the rich were the cause of the problems facing society, not migrants.

An RCP comrade made a speech explaining the real basis for the rise in the far right. They pointed the finger firmly at the establishment, including the current Labour Party leadership and previous Tory government, whose rhetoric around migrants fans the flames of hate and links small boat migrants with terrorists.

To defeat the far-right, it is the entire establishment that must be brought down also.

As our comrade was speaking, a large, hundred-plus delegation from the Asian community turned up to support the counter-protest. It was at this stage that the police felt the need to come out in force with their riot gear in hand. Previous to this, the police had decided to sit in their vans while a few far-right idiots attempted to attack counter-protestors with large sticks.

There was a clear difference in tactics from the organisers of the counter-protest, compared with the organised group of Asian men. The organisers appealed for people to keep together and stay in the square, while the group of Asian men preferred to take the action to the far-right thugs. This led some in the crowd to say that they were being too violent; that they were idiots for wanting to take on and fight the fascists.

RCP comrades, by contrast, took an active approach in engaging with the organised group that turned up. We had good conversations about Bangladesh, the real meaning of communism, and the need for class unity against the rich across all ethnic and religious lines.

It is clear that these young men have begun to organise themselves. When speaking, they explained their motivation: to defend those in their families at home who were scared to come out, or who had been told to stay home for their own safety. They informed us that they have created their own security network  groups stay in cars around mosques in case of any attack.

In times of need, organic organisations like this spring up. It shows what the working class is capable of. This is what is needed on a huge scale to overthrow the entire capitalist system.

We need and will continue to talk to those who are being radicalised by these events. We need to build an organised, revolutionary party to defeat the far-right threat and the capitalist system that breeds this.

Manchester

In Manchester, six comrades met for a briefing before joining the counter-demo to politically prepare and discuss safety. Several bystanders joined and listened, and we had some great conversations and got a couple of peoples contact details.

The demonstration started and the mood was clearly different from any wed been to before. It was run by Stand up to Racism (SUTR), but dominated by trade unionists who gave some solid speeches.

Outnumbered, the reactionary mob left. But the police brought out mounted units and kettled us. They treated us far more severely than they had the reactionary mob.

I was unsure of how this would go. But during a quiet moment I gave a speech targeting the reactionary role of the police, aiming fire at the Starmer government and its anti-migrant rhetoric, pointing out that they were more comfortable with the far right on the streets than the organised working class.

This got a fantastic response. It was a very short and simple speech, and we then led chants of shame on the GMP [Greater Manchester Police]! and no trust in Starmer!, which were taken up. From this point we set the tone and the political line of the demo.

We learnt that when people hear political clarity, it has a serious impact. And we learnt that fighting to get our politics out in front works. On this basis we can make a name for ourselves.

Sunderland

On Saturday, the atmosphere of relative calm and normality stood in stark contrast with the scenes of chaos the night before. Thanks to a cleanup effort by the local community, most of the debris had been cleared by lunchtime.

But the scars of far-right violence could still be seen around the city centre. A Citizens Advice office was torched and smouldering, broken windows dotted the high street, and a heavy police presence continued to linger.

Rioters also turned over and burned a car, looted a vape store, and targeted the Masjid e Anwaar e Madinah mosque in the Millfield area on Friday evening.

That one of the worst of the riots so far took place in Sunderland is no accident. Despite investment in a few multi-million pound developments, living standards have continued to decline. It was hard to tell whether shops were boarded up due to the riot, or years of neglect.

The intense anger with this state of affairs was evidenced by the damage to a police office and the Councils opulent new City Hall. The Labour-controlled local authority has cut public services to the bone while supporting business and funnelling Levelling Up funds to expensive vanity projects.

In the words of one young worker: People are sick of the way the country is run [but] theyve been force fed lies by people like Nigel Farage, Tommy Robinson, and the Tory Party who were never on their side to begin with. The elites, the rich  its their fault why this has happened.

We spoke to a woman who pointed out that ordinary Sunderland residents will be made to foot the bill, even though many rioters were from outside of the area. I wanted to go down there and whip their balaclavas off myself, she said.

This demonstrates the will of the working class to fight fascist thuggery on the streets. But the labour leadership have sat on their hands and refused to harness this mood. Even as rumours circulate of a second pogrom gathering on Saturday evening, Sunderland TUC had only a meek statement to offer: Lets all come together and fix this.

We say:

No trust in Starmer or the racist police!

The bosses and bankers are to blame for our crumbling NHS, not migrants!

Fight the far-right with a mass mobilisation of the working class!

Newcastle

Five comrades held a stall today with copies of The Communist and other literature. We decided to sell in a different spot to our usual, as its busier, and we were aware that the far-right types might be feeling emboldened after rioting last night in Sunderland.

The general mood was one of disgust at the riots, and people were very receptive to our points about the establishment blaming the crisis of capital on immigrants. We found a lot of people didnt know what people were rioting about.

We did encounter two fascists. One got quite angry and shouted at us, but we managed to shut down the conversation quickly and he left.

One person we spoke to, a 64 year-old labourer, said:

These rioters are horrible, vicious bastards. But no one seems to be speaking about the riots that happened in Leeds the other week. That wasnt about Muslims. The whole country feels like its boiling over. The Tories have been shite, but Labour arent going to change anything either. This country needs sorting out, something needs to change.

Hull

There was a large far-right mobilisation in Hull over the weekend. Three of our comrades went along to the counter-demonstration, which was politically weak and small in number.

Since the trades council had been suspended previously, sectarian activists took charge by force, as they had brought a microphone just to shout very politically weak slogans and play music to calm the situation.

When our comrades tried to give a political speech, we were rebuffed these organisers. So we went around with The Communist instead to chat with those in attendance and made five sales.

But after thirty minutes the police line broke, the counter-demo was encircled and attacked, and the police told everyone to flee. One comrade was slapped across the face. Another was pushed around by the far right thugs.

It was a big defeat for the left in Hull today, and the far right have been emboldened. They marched to a local hotel where asylum seekers are being housed, smashed its windows, and chanted racist remarks. We can expect that they will be back.

Playing music to calm the situation clearly had no effect. We looked weak and the counter-demonstration was smashed.

Liverpool

Around 300 people mobilised for a counter demonstration at the Pier Head in Liverpool. Before the demonstration itself, RCP comrades and sympathisers met to discuss the fundamentals of Marxism and we made a plan to collect quotes and reports for The Communist.

We then marched down and saw speeches being given by local trade unionists and SUTR who had organised the rally. This modest counter demonstration was outnumbered by the far-right; they were violent from the start, throwing flares, coins, bottles, and other debris, some narrowly missing children on our side. If it hadnt been for the police line, the far-right would have caused serious injury to the counter protestors.

Things escalated when masked hooligans charged at us, forcing us to retreat. These thugs then attacked a woman protesting, attempting to wrest a megaphone from her before being arrested.

The protest quickly descended into hooliganism and violence. Local youth began throwing chairs and debris at the police. A glass bottle narrowly missed our comrades.

Saturday felt like a defeat for the left in Liverpool, compared to last time when the English Defence League didnt make it 50 yards from Lime Street Station. We were outnumbered, out-muscled, and the rioting that came off the back of the political confrontation seeped into the wider city.

Men giving out Qurans on Lord Street were attacked, and a vape shop owned by an immigrant had the windows smashed in. Speaking to members of the public in the evening they condemned the violence and the targeting of Muslims.

We left the protest together and began to reflect on the day. The one positive is that we, through the chaos, convinced our two sympathisers to join and help us build the revolutionary party here in Liverpool.

Cardiff

Four comrades attended a local counter demonstration against a far-right demonstration planned to take place outside the Senedd.

Those organising the far-right demo initially called it off two days before it was supposed to go ahead. The counter demo went ahead as planned anyway.

Police presence was relatively high at first, suggesting they expected a higher turnout of the far right than showed up in the end.

Around 200 counter demonstrators attended at its peak, with Palestine solidarity activists giving speeches.

Notable speeches included one Unison representative, who correctly identified the need for the labour movement to cut across the culture war fuelling the far right.

A Black Lives Matter activist also spoke, and identified capitalism as the root cause of discontent in society. This received the best cheers.

No speaker, however, suggested how this fight against the capitalist system and its reactionary poison could be carried out, and by who.

For the time being, the counter demonstrations didnt seem to attract many new people, with the usual faces in attendance. Luckily, only around 15-18 older far-right activists arrived, huddled together in a tiny group next to the counter demonstration.

Nottingham

Tensions across Nottingham reached a fever pitch this weekend, with comrades of the RCP joining the counter-protest against the far right, who mobilised in the city.

The counter-protest was mostly composed of youth, in very respectable numbers  especially considering the demo had only been organised the previous day.

When the throng of fascists emerged, their presence was laughable. To consider that all the far right in Nottinghamshire could scrape up was a puny gaggle of drunk racists was embarrassing.

While these fascists waved their flags and delivered a pitchy trumpet solo of Rule Britannia, the counter-protest trumped them, both in numbers and in volume.

As the afternoon progressed, the far right grew violent, hurling glass bottles and pork towards the Muslim youth, who were bravely facing down these racists directly (through a barrier of passive and largely useless police officers).

Yet when some of the counter-protesters began to return these projectiles across the barricade, the SUTR organisers began a chant of dont throw back!

One comrade even heard a Labour Party organiser grumbling about how the entire counter-protest should be dispersed, as he could not stop the youth from defending themselves.

These reformist leaders expect us to simply suffer in silence, ignoring direct physical threats. But there can be no peace with the far-right mob. We fight for revolution!

Leicester

In Leicester city centre, counter-demonstrators first gathered to give speeches near the clock tower where the far-right planned to gather.

I spoke about how both Labour and the Tories are awful on immigration and contribute to whipping up racist and anti-immigrant sentiments, which the far right then feeds off. I said that the labour movement must unite to crush this resurgence before it can take root.

We then marched to and occupied the clock tower before the far-right could arrive. When they did, there couldnt have been more than fifty. We outnumbered them by double.

Before the police formed a barrier, three separate fascist thugs tried to intimidate protestors, including one guy who tried to snatch the megaphone from a girl before being pushed back by the crowd.

They initially tried some Nazi salutes and to sing some songs too, but were shouted down at every attempt. Very quickly their numbers dwindled and only a handful stuck around to the bitter end.

The demo had been called by SUTR, but the mood was extremely militant with a strong youth presence. This included a group of 12-14 year-olds who told me they were there to say fuck racism.

I tried to speak to as many people as I could, and many agreed with the points I was putting forward. Several bought a copy of the paper or wanted to find out more about the RCP.

We were far better organised than the far right, with banners and placards everywhere, and chants and speeches throughout. Morale was very high, spurred on rather than dampened by the behaviour of the reactionaries.

Eventually the police dispersed both crowds, but we occupied Leicesters clock tower for two and a half hours, preventing the far-right gang from claiming it. I definitely came away feeling the far-right had been utterly humiliated.
A former Boston police officer was sentenced in federal court in Boston on Tuesday for her role in a long-running overtime fraud scheme at the departments evidence warehouse, acting U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Joshua S. Levys office announced.

Diana Lopez, 62, of Milton, was sentenced to six months in prison followed by two years of supervised release, Levys office said in a statement. Lopez, who pleaded guilty in 2021 to conspiracy to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds and embezzlement from an agency receiving federal funds, was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine and $36,028 in restitution.

Between January 2015 and February 2019, Lopez submitted false and fraudulent overtime slips for overtime shifts she did not work at the evidence warehouse.

Lopez claimed to work what is known as purge overtime, a 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. weekday shift for disposing of old, unneeded evidence, according to Levys office. On overtime slips, Lopez claimed to work the full four hours but routinely left two hours early, at 6 p.m., and sometimes even earlier.

During the period he submitted fraudulent overtime, Lopez made roughly $36,038 for overtime hours he did not work, Levys office said.

Lopez is the eighth Boston police officer to be sentenced in connection with the overtime fraud scheme and one of more than a dozen charged, Levys office said.
Editors note: This story was updated at 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, August 8, 2024 to correct the status of Brianna Welshs pregnancy. Officials have not said how pregnant she was at the time of her death.

A Lynn man who is accused of assaulting his pregnant girlfriend hours before prosecutors say his brother stabbed her to death was ordered held without bail during his dangerousness hearing on Wednesday.

Judge Ina Howard-Hogan ruled that Brendon Vozzella, 24 was a danger to the community and ordered him held for the next 120 days, court records show. Vozzella is charged with assault and battery on a pregnant person and assault and battery on a household member.
A Massachusetts man hiking with his family in the White Mountains died Tuesday after suffering a medical emergency on the trail, New Hampshire authorities said.

The hiker, a 52-year-old man from Topsfield, was traversing the Kinsman Ridge Trail in Franconia Notch at the time of the incident, according to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.
On a largely cloudy Wednesday in Massachusetts, more than 40 beaches across the state were closed, primarily due to bacteria in the water, according to the states publicly available water quality dashboard.

In all, 49 beaches across Massachusetts were closed as of the 9:30 a.m. update to the dashboard.

The closures spanned from Amherst in Western Massachusetts to Boston in Eastern Massachusetts to beaches on Cape Cod and the Islands. Of the 49 beaches closed in the state as of Wednesday morning, more than half  33 of the 49  were attributed to an excess of bacteria in the water.

The remaining closures were attributed to harmful cyanobacteria blooms, sewer system overflows and simply other reasons. One beach, Cochituate State Park Beach in Natick, listed both excess bacteria and a harmful cyanobacteria bloom as the reason for its closure.

In Amherst, both Puffers Pond and Stanley Street swimming hole were closed due to excess bacteria. Bass Pond in Springfield was also closed, with the dashboard listing a harmful cyanobacteria bloom as the culprit.

A total of three Worcester beaches were closed Wednesday morning  Indian Lake Public Beach, Lake Park Beach and Shore Park  with cyanobacteria blooms blamed for the closures at both Indian Lake and Shore Park.

In the eastern part of the state, both Kings Beach and Lynn Shore Beach in Lynn on the North Shore were closed due to bacteria on Wednesday. In Boston, Constitution, Malibu and Tenean beaches were all closed on Wednesday because of excess bacteria.

On the Cape, Longnook Beach in Truro was closed  and may remain closed the entire summer  due to safety concerns from eroding cliffs. On Marthas Vineyard, two beaches in West Tisbury were closed  Long Cove and Seths Pond  with the dashboard citing excess bacteria as the reason behind the closure.

If a beach is closed, do not swim or enter the water at that location to avoid risk of illness, the dashboard warns.

The dashboard is updated twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon, and shows the results of recent water quality tests at beaches across the state. More than 1,100 public and semi-public beaches in the state are regularly monitored.

And despite the closures, state officials say the beaches are still perfectly safe for recreational activities aside from swimming.

The full list of closures is below. If you cant see the chart, click here.
Dracut Police are asking for the publics help after nearly 50 guinea pigs were found abandoned on a small trail near Beaver Brook on Monday afternoon.

Police learned that someone found several guinea pigs on a trail between the Beaver Brook Mill and Beaver Brook at around 12:30 p.m. Monday. Animal Control found 49 guinea pigs on the trail, all of which seemed lethargic and in poor condition, Dracut Police Chief Peter Bartlett said in a statement.

The guinea pigs were brought to the Lowell Humane Society because they needed veterinary care, according to Bartlett. The animals are still at the humane society but are not yet available for adoption because of their conditions, according to the statement.
Editors note: This article was updated at 2:55 p.m. on 8/8/24 to correct the price of six cheesecakes.

After welcoming a speciality cheesecake shop at 26 Main St., Millbury, just weeks ago, Bay Staters have come in numbers to support Who Cut the Cheesecake?  so much so, that the business has sold out almost every day.

The business offers guests a one-stop-shop for all things cheesecake  including elaborate flavors ranging from tangy, lemon-blueberry to extra sweet, like death by chocolate.

Who Cut the Cheesecakes signature item is its mini-cheesecakes which are $5 each, and $25 for six. Whole cheesecakes are available for preorder online, here.

Between the 26 Main St., Millbury location and the 1195 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, Rhode Island flagship location, Who Cut the Cheesecake?, sells about 5,000 mini-cheesecakes a week.

I created the recipe in high school and started a small business, the companys owner, Dave Silva, said. I used to sell to teachers.

Silvas first recipe was for pumpkin cheesecake, which he followed from a cookbook his uncle gave him when he was about 16 years old.

He has since tweaked the recipe to become what it is today, and dramatically expanded the flavor combinations that are on offer.

Silva, a Rhode Island native, said he put a lot of work into establishing a small cheesecake business as a teen. But he put it on the back burner for 20 years, before picking it back up around 2019.

At the time, Silva, 39, was a paramedic for the city of Worcester.

Though only casually baking here and there, Silva said he gained a following for his cheesecake again after posting a How to make cheesecake, video on YouTube.

I took it down like two weeks later, he said. I didnt want people to know my recipe.

A Worcester firefighter saw Silvas video before he removed it, and asked if he would make him a cheesecake.

To make it worth our while, Silva said theyd need an order bigger than that, adding between the prep, baking and cooling times, it takes about 24 hours to make a cheesecake.

It didnt take long before everyone was asking me to make them, he said.

Before he knew it, his operations would expand from baking with just one mixer and one over in his home, to making up to 30 cheesecakes a week in the holiday season.

Silva moved into a commercial kitchen with two ovens and two mixers based in St. Bernards Church on Lincoln St., Worcester, around late 2019 or early 2020, to keep up with the demand.

With the larger space, Silva was able to increase production up to 120 large cakes a week.

But even then, he was still only baking part-time while working full-time as a paramedic.

With the help of friends Shannon Horran, Shawna Grout, and John Wojcik, and the support of his wife Hollie, Silva was able to keep up with the higher demand.

Silvas following allowed him to move to full-time baking and open the first Who Cut the Cheesecake, storefront in Chepachet, Rhode Island.

At that location, Silva typically sells about 60 full-size cheesecakes a week, and 1,500 mini-cheesecakes a week.

However, since opening the Millbury location, the total between both stores has more than tripled, Silva said.

Silvas personal favorites are Banana Cream and Tiramisu, though he said the most popular among customers tends to be lemon-blueberry, peanut butter delight, strawberry shortcake and death by chocolate.

The four most popular flavors are menu staples, though other flavors rotate.

In addition to cheesecake flavor variations, the flavors of the crusts also vary depending on the cheesecake.

Some crust flavors include gram cracker, Oreo, vanilla wafer, Oreo-Graham Cracker mix and more.

Our cheesecakes are usually a lot lighter and creamery than traditional cheesecakes, said Silva. All of our products are handmade ... fresh.

Hours:

Monday, Closed

Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m - 7 p.m.

Wednesday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Thursday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Friday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Brandon Aiyuk didnt want the Patriots. The San Francisco 49ers star spurned them, and the ransom they were willing to pay to make a trade happen.

At least, that was the biggest takeaway smacking everyone in the face Tuesday night when news broke courtesy of Mike Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area that the Patriots had pulled out of the Aiyuk sweepstakes in part because the receiver showed no interest in heading to New England.

Talk about a gut punch.

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The Patriots were by most accounts hell-bent on bringing Aiyuk to Foxborough. They had come up with the framework of a deal the 49ers rubber-stamped, setting the wheels in motion. And, they were in the high rent district - reportedly willing to hand over a salary that averaged $30 million annually - in order to win over Aiyuk and beat out the competition.

But with Aiyuk eventually making it clear he wanted no part of the Patriots, no matter how much money they were willing to throw at him, enough was enough.

Instead of allowing Aiyuk and the 49ers to continue to use them as a stalking horse, the Patriots smartly got out of the race. They bid a hasty retreat, before officially losing out to the Steelers, Browns, or whoever Aiyuk ultimately deems as his next team.

The Patriots also did their best to put a happy face on the failed mission.

Per ESPNs Adam Schefter, who broke the news that the Patriots were no longer exploring trade possibilities with the 49ers with respect to Aiyuk, the team was instead excited about their young receivers and want to focus on them.

Still, Aiyuks rejection was a tough pill to swallow. It was another wake-up call as to how far the team has fallen.

With Tom Brady no longer in the huddle, Bill Belichick no longer calling the shots on the sidelines, and championships almost a distant memory, the Patriots have lost most of their luster.

Aiyuk basically shouted from the rooftops that New England was no longer a desired destination.

Earlier in the year, the Patriots didnt land free agent receiver Calvin Ridley largely because theres no income tax in Tennessee, and Ridleys significant other supposedly preferred going to Nashville. They made a competitive offer to him, too, but it didnt matter. He chose the Titans.

Thats also what happens when youre a four-win team with a new head coach that lacks stars and relevance on the NFL landscape.

The Patriots are well aware they have to deal with the ramifications that go hand-in-hand with being in the middle of a rebuild. They know they need more talent. Specifically, Eliot Wolf & Co. know they need to acquire better players on offense, specifically at receiver and at tackle.

As theyve discovered, getting them is another matter.

Theres always a sense of urgency to get good players, coach Jerod Mayo said during his press session Tuesday morning. Everyone talks about young quarterbacks and surrounding him with good players. Look, we have an older quarterback (Brissett), and we want to send him in with good players as well. Were going to put the best product or the best team out there.

For now, itll be without that difference-making receiver.

While the thought of the Patriots landing Aiyuk seemed like a pipe dream from the outset, the genie was out of the bottle by Monday night with discussion of trading Aiyuk ramping up in San Francisco, and the Patriots included in the narrowed field of trade partners. A short time later, its tough to reconcile the genie disappearing.

The last 24 hours went from excitement over the possibility of the Patriots finally landing a bonafide No. 1 receiver, to depression over having the dream scenario taken away.

Thoughts of Jacoby Brissett, but more importantly Drake Maye having a legitimate weapon in the arsenal were dancing through the heads of Patriots fans.

The notion of the Patriots young core of receivers potentially being aided by a top gun, and Maye having a better chance to succeed whenever he stepped in, had provided such a boost.

Instead, its a reality check.

The Patriots made an honest attempt, but it made no sense to continue being pawns in the grand scheme of things.

So in the end, this was nothing more than a cruel tease.

The Patriots are back to square one. Instead of having both the quarterback and difference-making receiver locked up from the to-do list, they still lack two important cornerstones for the offense.

Not only are they without a top gun wideout, they also desperately need a franchise left tackle.

The addition of Aiyuk would have sped up the rebuild process. He would have done so much to jumpstart a Patriots offense that scored a woeful 13.9 points per game last season.

From Eliot and my perspective, were always trying to get better, no matter what position were talking about, no matter how those guys get here, whether its through cuts or through trades or whatever, were always looking to improve our team and win now, Mayo said.

With no other apparent avenues to land a top receiver, or a stud left tackle, the Patriots will likely have to wait until next years draft to gain the desired assets.

As for luring any prized free agents, thats going to involve much more. The Patriots have to show progress before they can score the type of talent they need to completely turn this around. Its not always about being willing to spend the money.

That revelation was Aiyuks parting gift.
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 shell 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 McGuires 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 wont 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 Trumps 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.
A full-scale nuclear war today would kill hundreds of millions of people in just the first half hour.

We know also that people who survive that immediate wave of destruction, who live past the first half hour, will be living in a world that is absolutely incapable of survival, says Dr. Ira Helfand, a local physician who has helped guide two groups that won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985 and 2017.
Established in 2017, StudyWest Education Services is a premier educational services firm based in Perth, Western Australia. By partnering with top tertiary education institutes in Australia, StudyWest offers a variety of courses from high school to Bachelors and Masters levels.

The opening of the Mauritius sub-office in July 2024, led by Simon Seebaluck, represents a significant milestone, providing Mauritian and African students with access to high-quality Australian education.

StudyWest is dedicated to empowering students to transcend borders and reach their full potential through education. Committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4), Study West believes education is a human right and a public good that should be equitable and inclusive.

The official launch was marked by a grand event on Thursday 11th of July 2024 at the Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel. This significant occasion saw the presence of distinguished guests, underscoring the importance of this new venture in the realm of international education in Mauritius and the region. Speakers were Hon. Mrs. Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun, G.C.S.K., Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Tertiary Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Mauritius, Her Excellency Ms. Kate Chamley, Australian High Commissioner to Mauritius, Roshan Perera, Assistant Executive Director of Examinations, Certification, and Testing of the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, Department of Education, Government of Western Australia, Jarad Ceely from StudyWest Education Services, Perth and Simon Seebaluck, Director of StudyWest Mauritius. 

The lineup of speakers at the launch highlights Study Wests reputation as a trusted partner within the educational community. This reflects its robust ties with key governmental and educational institutions in both Western Australia and Mauritius. This collaboration is set to enhance educational opportunities and cultivate lasting, impactful relationships between the two regions.

Simon Seebaluck, Director, Study West Education Services, Mauritius, stated:

Today, we celebrate a pivotal moment for StudyWest as we launch our operations in Mauritius. Our mission is clear: to empower students to reach their full potential through education. We believe that every child, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education. StudyWest is committed to providing the guidance and pathways necessary to make this a reality. By partnering with leading Australian institutions and fostering strong collaborations, we are creating a bridge between Mauritius and Australia. This bridge will facilitate access to world-class education for Mauritian students while contributing to the nations goal of becoming a regional education hub. Together, we can create a brighter future for our youth.

Jarad Ceely, Director, Study West Education Services, Perth, stated:

Tonight marks a significant milestone for StudyWest as we officially launch our operations in Mauritius. Our journey begins with a shared vision: to make Mauritius a global education hub. We believe in the power of education to transform lives. StudyWest is committed to providing a pathway for Mauritian students to achieve their full potential, both locally and internationally. By introducing Study West in Mauritius, we aim to enhance the existing curriculum and offer students a globally recognized qualification. Together, we will create a brighter future for Mauritian and African students, fostering a vibrant, multicultural learning environment.

Roshan Perera, Assistant Executive Director of Examinations, Certification, and Testing of the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, Department of Education, Government of Western Australia, stated:

On behalf of the government, I would like to say that we appreciate the contribution of international students to Western Australia. Thats why numerous opportunities and initiatives have been put in place to support international students in their transition to studying in Western Australia. The government offers not only quality education programs in our five universities, in our vocational training institutions, but also in schools. Thus, students have multiple access possibilities and courses lead to results that allow them to find employment. We also offer international students a range of employment options while they are at university or in training, but also once they have completed their studies.

Her Excellency Ms. Kate Chamley, Australian High Commissioner to Mauritius, shared:

Australia and Mauritius share a strong and enduring partnership built on shared history, values, and people-to-people connections. Our educational collaboration is a key component of this relationship. With thousands of students studying between our two countries, were expanding opportunities for young people. The recent graduation at Curtin Mauritius, with students from across the globe, highlights our shared commitment to education. Were excited to announce the opening of Studywests office in Mauritius. This marks a new chapter in our education partnership, focusing on Western Australian qualifications and supporting students from Mauritius and the region, Australia offers world-class education and research. We invite Mauritian students to explore these opportunities and become part of our global alumni network.

The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Mrs. Leela Devi Dookun-Luchoomun, G.C.S.K., Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Tertiary Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Mauritius. The minister stated:

Today marks a significant milestone in the educational partnership between Mauritius and Australia with the launch of Study West. This collaboration opens new doors for our students, offering them access to world-class Australian curriculum both here and abroad. Mauritius and Australia share a strong commitment to academic excellence and cultural exchange. Our existing partnerships with Australian institutions, such as the University of Mauritius, the University of Technology of Mauritius, and Polytechnics Mauritius, are testaments to this shared vision. Study Wests presence in Mauritius is a game-changer. It not only benefits Mauritian students but also positions our nation as a regional hub for higher education, attracting students from across Africa and beyond. By offering affordable, high-quality Australian programs, we are creating opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. To fully realize our vision of a regional education hub, we must foster stronger collaboration between our institutions and explore joint programs. Let us work together to create an ecosystem where students can thrive and succeed.

The distinguished profile of speakers at the launch underscores Study Wests status as a trusted partner in the educational community, reflecting its strong connections with key governmental and educational institutions in both Western Australia and Mauritius. This collaboration promises to enhance educational opportunities and foster long-term, impactful relationships between the two regions.

As part of its ongoing commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities, Study West organized the Western Australian Open Day  Study in Western Australia Student Fair on Saturday, July 13th, 2024, at the Caudan Arts Centre in Port Louis. The fair offered a unique opportunity for Mauritian students, parents, and educators to engage with representatives from esteemed Western Australian universities, Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions, vocational providers, and high schools. This event showcased the vast educational landscape of Western Australia and foster stronger educational ties between Mauritius, Africa, and Australia.

Simon Seebaluck, Director of StudyWest Mauritius shared :

At StudyWest, we focus on young people who are unsure about what to do after secondary school, particularly those who may not have performed well in their exams and think they cant go to university, despite having great potential. I would like to thank everyone who visited the fair today. I appreciate the parents and students who placed their trust in us. I was surprised to see that 250 people attended, and there were many online registrations as well. We have a lot of work ahead to help the Mauritian public. As I mentioned in my speech: A seat for all. Its not just the elite who can go abroad to learn; everyone should have access to education.

Her Excellency Ms. Kate Chamley, Australian High Commissioner to Mauritius, came to the fair and shared :

It is an honor to be here. This is a fantastic opportunity for parents and students to explore all the offerings in the tertiary sector that Western Australia has to offer. Australia is a wonderful place to study. We have universities, technical education institutions, colleges, and schools of excellent quality. The courses are top-notch, and the universities are ranked among the best. Western Australia, in particular, offers a wide range of high-quality courses. It is also a beautiful region to discover. Students who come to study here have extraordinary experiences.

Roshan Perera, Assistant Executive Director of Examinations, Certification, and Testing of the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, Department of Education, Government of Western Australia, also stated:

From world-class universities and vocational institutions to thriving schools, we offer a diverse range of educational opportunities. Western Australia boasts a robust economy driven by mining, tourism, and agriculture. We encourage international students to not only pursue their studies but also to explore career paths within these vital sectors. To facilitate this, we provide ample employment options both during and after your studies. Our commitment extends beyond education and employment. Western Australia offers a lower cost of living compared to other Australian states, making your studies more affordable. Additionally, we provide scholarships to support your academic goals. Western Australia is a multicultural hub, much like Mauritius, where diverse cultures harmoniously coexist. 

A Pathway to Excellence : University Representatives testimonials from Western Australia

Western Australia stands as a beacon for international students seeking high-quality education and enriching experiences. With a variety of institutions offering diverse and supportive educational opportunities, the region is an attractive destination for academic pursuits. Here are testimonials from representatives of educational institutions in Western Australia who participated in Western Australian Open Day  Study in Western Australia Student Fair.



Cecilia Waihenya

Cecilia Waihenya, University of Western Australia (UWA)

The University of Western Australia (UWA), a prestigious member of the Group of Eight, stands as a top choice for students aiming for academic excellence in Australia. Renowned for its cutting-edge programs in engineering, biomedical sciences, and various other fields, UWA offers unparalleled educational value. With scholarships of up to AUD 12,000 and flexible enrolment periods in February and July, UWA ensures a supportive and rewarding academic journey.

Daniela Hoyos

Daniela Hoyos, Language Links

Language Links, a seasoned institution with 25 years in the market, offers a wide array of English courses tailored for students at all levels. Partnering with universities like ECU and Notre Dame, Language Links prepares students for academic success through its comprehensive programs. With affordable and high-quality courses ranging from general English to diploma programs in various fields, Language Links is an excellent choice for international students.

Don Yeh

Don Yeh, TAFE (Technical and Further Education)

TAFE provides technical and higher education qualifications in Perth, offering over 100 courses across 23 campuses. From Certificate II to diplomas, TAFE partners with top universities, allowing students to obtain multiple qualifications efficiently. This institution emphasizes quality education and real-world experience, making it an ideal choice for students seeking practical skills and academic advancement.

Wilson Msiska

Wilson Msiska, Edith Cowan University (ECU)

Edith Cowan University (ECU) is a leading institution offering diverse programs across arts, humanities, engineering, and more. With strong connections to the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts and various academic divisions, ECU prepares students for successful careers.

Pankaj Pathak

Pankaj Pathak, Phoenix Academy

Phoenix Academy offers pathways from English language courses to diplomas, facilitating entry into bachelors and masters degrees. With programs for students as young as six to adults, Phoenix Academy supports diverse educational goals. Their strong presence in Mauritius reflects a commitment to providing quality education and vocational training.

Louise Edwards

Louise Edwards, West Australian Institute of Further Studies (WAIFS)

WAIFS provides a comprehensive range of courses from certificate to graduate diploma levels. Known for its articulated pathways and supportive learning environment, WAIFS ensures students can achieve their academic goals efficiently. With a focus on work-based training in sectors like dental, childcare, and aged care, WAIFS graduates are well-prepared for successful careers.

John Mutwiri Miriti

John Mutwiri Miriti, Murdoch University

Murdoch University, a top-ranking institution for postgraduate studies in Perth, offers a wide range of programs and generous scholarships. Known for its 5-star rating in teaching quality and employability, Murdoch University is an excellent choice for students seeking a robust academic foundation.

Jocelyn Chee

Jocelyn Chee, The University of Notre Dame Australia

The University of Notre Dame Australia provides diverse courses in medicine, nursing, business, and more, with strong support for international students through scholarships. This institution is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic and career aspirations in Australia.

Ivan McLean

Ivan McLean, Anglican Schools Commission

The Anglican Schools Commission operates 16 schools across Australia, offering tailored educational programs for international students. With a focus on high-quality, affordable education, these schools support over 300 international students, providing a nurturing environment for academic and personal growth. The Commissions schools are particularly welcoming to Mauritian students, offering diverse pathways similar to those in Australia.



These testimonials highlight the diverse and supportive educational opportunities available in Western Australia, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking quality education and enriching experiences.
IN the space of little more than a generation, Ireland has changed utterly. My youth was spent in a country far removed from todays. I grew from boyhood in a community where everyone knew one another, most people were related to one another, almost everyone was Catholic, there were no people of colour and no foreigners. The celebrities were the priest, the politician, the guard and the doctor, and everyone seemed to think the same thoughts.

I didnt like it then and and I still dont now. When I think about it, I get the shivers.

There are many problems with todays Ireland, and we face many challenges in all aspects of life, but thankfully, we live in a society much-changed from the Ireland of the 1970s and 80s.

Of course, there were positives to life back then too, but not many. There was a certain sense of comfort in such an enclosed society and a sense of structure and warmth. These days, I exist in a life where its every-man-for-himself, so I miss the family-feel of my youth. But thats the height of it.

When I was a young lad, the only person of colour I ever encountered was a man from India who would call to our home sporadically. He would carry a suitcase into our kitchen, place it on the table and reveal a collection of colourful cloths of all shapes and sizes. Once we found some item we needed, my grandmother, Rose Anne Gallagher, would put her best bargaining skills into action and there were times when I almost felt sorry for our guest. He would shake his head in disbelief as she bantered and bartered with him and we would end up with new clothes at a very good price.

Today, people of colour are an integral part of Irish society, and I love that. In my world  theres no colour, no accent, no nationality  just people. Of course, Im also an Irish patriot. I love the fact that Im a man of Ireland and am very proud of the fact. I firmly believe we live on an island where the right leadership and direction could create a wonderful inclusive society for all.

However, there are many who dont want to share our island with others. They tell us Ireland is full and they say they want Ireland for the Irish. I smile when I hear them trot out this nonsense. I wonder whether they realise their ancestors all came to Ireland from some other part of the planet  Im well aware that my forefathers arrived from our neighbouring island and further afield.

The Gallaghers arrived in Donegal to help fight wars and were known as Help from afar. The Gildeas, McGowans, Conways and even the ODonnells all arrived on this rock from somewhere else at one time or another. Of course that was many centuries ago, but the fact remains.

Of course, there must be rules and regulations around the acceptance of people into our nation and the Government has let us down with their slip-shod policies, disinterest and lack of resources in dealing with the influx of people from other countries in recent years. Therefore our ire should be directed towards them rather that those who come here looking for a safe place to live.

Call out the Government for allowing this to fester. Call out the Government for giving little more than meagre resources to the International Protection Office over the years. Call out the Government for having no proper plan in place for housing asylum applicants. For lack of consultation with local communities when housing these applicants. For not resourcing An Garda Siochana to properly deal with those stoking violence at protests about immigration. For taking a softly-softly approach to this violence and hoping it would go away. Call out the government for all of this, but dont direct bile and hatred towards those coming to our island in order to escape war, famine, discrimination and so much more.

We can build an inclusive, warm, welcoming society here in Ireland, but we need leadership and a sense of strength to be shown by those in position to do so. Sadly, those in charge of our nation right now seem hugely lacking in this regard.
A FUNDRAISING campaign has been launched to bring home a young Galway man - whose parents are from Co Mayo - home after he died tragically in Australia.

The heartbroken family of Kevin Ruane from Ballybrit in Galway has launched a fundraising campaign to bring him home after his sudden death in Perth, Australia where he had been living. Kevin's is the son of John and Kathleen, who are from Balla and Achill respectively and he is survived by his sister Aisling and grandparents, Maura Ruane and John O'Donnell and is predeceased by his brother Adrian, his grandad Gerald Ruane (Balla) and grandmother Catherine ODonnell (Achill).

The Go Fund Me fundraising page entitled 'In Honour Kevin Ruane' was created by members of his family and in just over 24 hours it had raised almost 46,000 as communities in Mayo and Galway and elsewhere rallied behind the Ruane family.

It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kevin Ruane in Perth Australia, a much loved family member, and loyal friend and colleague, wrote Barbara Hickey who created the Go Fund Me page.

We are raising funds to assist with the costs associated with having Kevin brought back home to his devastated family. Our aim is to relieve some of the financial burden on Kevins family and to assist with the cost of having his personal belongings brought home.

Any donations which you might be able to give will be greatly appreciated. Additional funds raised will be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and the Claddagh Association. Many thanks in anticipation, she concluded.

To make a donation to the campaign visit the link https://www.gofundme.com/f/kevin-ruane
A MAYO Garda is to brave the choppy waters of the wild Atlantic and swim from Roonagh Pier to Clare Island along with a number of other hardy souls to raise money for two charities.

Garda Niall O'Malley, a native of Cleggan in Connemara will take on the wild Atlantic while raising funds for two worthy causes - Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and Louisburgh Order of Malta.

The swim is scheduled to depart Roonagh Quay at 8.30am (weather permitting) on August 10 where the participants will make the 5km swim to Clare Island.

A rugby 'legend', GAA player and sailing enthusiast, Niall moved to Louisburgh in 2012 after three years stationed in Ballina as a Garda where he played GAA with Enniscrone. He had previously played GAA with Clifden and rugby in secondary school.

He played GAA with Louisburgh and rugby with Westport when they won the Connaught Cup in 2015 after a 50 year gap before going on to win the league and the Cawley Cup the following year. They followed that up with the Connaught Plate in 2018 and 2020.

Along with being a devoted family man and a local Garda, Niall is a keen kite surfer and can be seen on the beaches around Louisburgh enjoying his adopted community that is excellent for kitesurfing.

I've always been into sailing both cruising and racing with Westport. Living in Louisburgh is great really as the beaches are brilliant for kite surfing while also a natural playground for rearing a young family, said the community man who is happy to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and Louisburgh Order of Malta.

All funds raised will go directly to the two charities mainly with some funds going to other individual charities also. The organisers are hoping that supporters will come out on the day to celebrate and contribute in any way. Donations can be made through the iDonate page https://www.idonate.ie/event/charityswim24.

People can show support by donating online and also coming out on the day to cheer the swimmers ashore in Clare Island and celebrate. People will congregate in the Community Centre on Clare Island after the swim.
The Big Beach Clean 2024 is back, and Clean Coasts are asking people in Mayo and nationwide to register to join the campaign.

From September 20-22, volunteers across the country will gather to clean our beautiful beaches and contribute to a global effort to combat marine litter. This year, we are thrilled to announce that the initiative is proudly supported by Kia Ireland.

Last year in Mayo, 21 groups and over 400 volunteers removed an estimated 2.4 tonnes of marine litter with clean-ups happening in various locations, including Achill, Ballina, Claremorris, Newport and Louisburgh.

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 Clean-up, 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 you collect, participants will help make Irelands voice heard on a global scale. The data collected by our 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 the Ocean Conservancy, has driven significant policy changes worldwide, including banning certain plastic items such as bags and straws or the implementation of laws to prohibit smoking on beaches.

Bronagh Moore, An Taisce's Clean Coasts Manager, said they are delighted to announce the opening of registrations for this years Big Beach Clean.

She added: 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.

Cathal Kealey, Head of Marketing and PR at Kia Ireland, said the company is delighted to sponsor this year's clean-up.

She 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.

In line with 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, she concluded.

For more information and to register, see the Clean Coasts website.
by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, August 7, 2024

WPP CEO Mark Read told investors and analysts today that the companys media arm GroupM is not as successful on the new business front in the U.S. as it needs to be going forward.

The media unit is still facing headwinds from client losses in 2023 like Shell and others.

advertisement advertisement Its growth in the second quarter of this year was 1.4% with first-half growth of 1.9%.

Asked what the problems were, Read replied that the complexity of the organization is a major issue and one that sometimes prevents putting the best people on potentially lucrative new opportunities. A fragmented technology platform has also hindered performance.

A restructuring is underway that is designed to address those and other issues, said Read. In addition, Open Media Studio  the end-to-end media delivery platform built by Choreograph and available to GroupM teams as part of WPP Openwill help as well.

And new leadership is also expected to help drive growth at the organization, both at the very top and in regions like China, which will be down double-digits for the full year on an organic growth basis.

The company recently announced that Brian Lesser is rejoining the company as Global CEO of GroupM starting next month (succeeding Christian Juhl, who is taking on a corporate role at WPP).

Asked what Lesser brings to the table, Read replied that he understands both product and technology and is very familiar with the organization, having worked there for 10 years, including a stint as CEO GroupM North America before departing to AT&T to run its ad business in 2017.

And Lesser has a good relationship with both clients and Readthe duo worked closely together when Lesser was at GroupM during the first go-round. His combined skills are what GroupM needs, said Read.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, August 7, 2024

The Ohio Attorney General is calling attention to this week's ruling that Google violated antitrust law, arguing in a letter to a state court judge that the ruling relates to Ohio's effort to declare Google a common carrier.

The antitrust finding is highly instructive to Ohio's claims against the company, Jennifer Pratt, director of litigation for the Ohio Attorney General, said in a letter sent Wednesday to Delaware County Court Judge James Schuck.

Her letter comes in a battle dating to 2021, when Ohio Attorney General David Yost claimed that Google is a common carrier -- comparable to a railroad -- and should therefore be prohibited from prioritizing its services or products in search results.

Pratt writes that even though the antitrust case presents different legal issues than Ohio's lawsuit -- which focuses on Ohio rules governing common carriers -- the decision is relevant and helpful to the state's case against Google.

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The antitrust ruling, issued Monday by U.S. District Court Judge Amit Mehta, focused on Google's search distribution deals.

Mehta found that Google illegally maintained a monopoly in two markets -- general search services, and search text ads -- by contracting to serve as the default search engine on browsers operated by Apple and Mozilla, as well as on Android devices.

That ruling confirms that Google Search is a matter of public concern, Pratt writes.

She adds that the decision provides valuable insights into the improbability that Google Search's importance to the interests of the general public will erode anything in the foreseeable future, referring to Mehta's findings that Google dominates the search engine market.

While Google has not yet responded to Ohio's new filing, the company has argued that it has a First Amendment right to wield control over its search results.

Just as a newspaper editor must choose what information to include in the paper, what to put on the front page, and in what order, a search engine must decide what information to include in its search results, what to put on the first page of the results, and in what order, Google wrote this January in a motion seeking summary judgment.

Last month, Google filed a letter with Schuck flagging the Supreme Court's recent ruling in a dispute over content moderation laws. Justice Elena Kagan wrote in that case that tech platforms have First Amendment rights to control the content on their services.

The First Amendment does not go on leave when social media are involved, Kagan wrote.

This Court has many times held, in many contexts, that it is no job for government to decide what counts as the right balance of private expression -- to 'un-bias' what it thinks biased, rather than to leave such judgments to speakers and their audiences, she added.

Google has also argued it doesn't meet Ohio's definition of common carrier because it doesn't transport or carry people or their property, and because its search results are individually tailored.

It does not carry or transport anything for hire, and it does not hold itself out as acting 'indifferently,' the company wrote.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, August 7, 2024

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is backing AT&T in its appeal of a $57 million fine imposed by the Federal Communications Commission for privacy violations.

The business group says in a friend-of-the-court brief that the FCC flagrantly violated the Constitution, arguing that instead of handing down a fine, it should have taken AT&T to court.

The FCC imposed its gargantuan fine through an adjudication at the FCC in which the FCC gave itself the roles of judge, jury, and prosecutor, the business group writes in its brief, filed Monday with the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.

The organization is weighing in on a battle dating to the Trump administration, when the FCC -- then controlled by Republicans -- first proposed fining AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile for allegedly sharing customers' location data with third parties.

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Specifically, the FCC said in a notice of apparent liability that the carriers sold access to geolocation data to aggregators that resold the information to outside companies. The FCC issued the notice around one year after Vice Media's Motherboard reported that a journalist had been able to pay a bounty hunter $300 to track a phone's location to a neighborhood in Queens, New York.

The major U.S. carriers have said they no longer sell location data.

Earlier this year, the FCC followed through on the notice of apparent liability and fined AT&T around $57 million, Verizon around $47 million, and T-Mobile $92 million (including $12 million for Sprint, which merged with T-Mobile in 2020).

The agency voted 3-2 to impose the fines, with Republican commissioners Brendan Carr and Nathan Simington dissenting.

All three wireless carriers are appealing the fines.

AT&T, which filed its substantive arguments last week, contends the fine should be vacated for several reasons, including that the FCC imposed sanctions without proving the allegations in court.

AT&T also contends the agency lacked authority to issue the fines because the location data at issue wasn't tied solely to voice services, like telephone calls. Instead, the location information was tied to non-voice location-based services such as the Life Alert program, which sends medical help to people, or roadside assistance company AAA, the telecom argues.

The company says the distinction between call information and location information not tied to phone calls is critical, arguing that the FCC is only authorized to police the confidentiality of call information.

The trade group CTIA--The Wireless Association also weighed in on AT&T's behalf. That organization urged the court to rule that the FCC lacked authority to police the location data at issue because it wasn't tied to telephone calls.
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Sex Bias in Pain Management Decisions



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Women are often undertreated for #pain in emergency departments. New research shows they're less likely to get #painkillers than men, even with similar symptoms. This systemic bias needs to stop. #womenshealth #painmanagement 

Women Undertreated for Pain in Emergency Rooms

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Sex Bias in Pain Management Decisions - (https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2401331121)

New research exposes a glaring gender gap in emergency pain management . Women are significantly less likely to receive pain medication than men, despite presenting with similar symptoms. This systemic bias persists across age groups and pain levels, and is compounded by underreported pain scores and longer wait times for women ().Urgent action is needed to address this crisis, including comprehensive training for healthcare providers and policy changes to ensure equitable pain treatment for all patients.A new study led by Prof. Shoham Choshen-Hillel and Mika Guzikevits from the Hebrew University, Dr. Alex Gileles-Hillel from Hebrew University- Hadassah Medical Center, Dr. Tom Gordon-Hecker from Ben-Gurion University, and an international team of researchers from Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical Center, the University of Missouri, and Marshall University has uncovered a concerning sex bias in pain management decisions at emergency rooms.The research, published in the journalanalyzed over 21,000 patient records across the United States and Israel and found that female patients are consistently less likely to receive pain medication prescriptions compared to male patients with similar complaints.By analyzing electronic health records from American and Israeli healthcare systems, the researchers present evidence that a female patient discharged from the emergency department is less likely to receive treatment for a pain complaint compared to a male patient.Specifically, datasets from emergency departments in the US and Israel, with a total sample size of 21,851 discharge notes, revealed that female patients are less likely to receive a prescription for any type of analgesic medication, both opioids and non-opioids, compared to male patients.Female patients with pain complaints are less likely to receive analgesics for every pain score and at every age group and receive less analgesics from both male and female physicians. In addition, female patients stay an additional 30 minutes at the emergency department, and their pain score is 10% 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 . According to the authors, the under-treatment of females pain bears immediate implications for the healthcare system and broad implications for societys attitude toward female pain.Interestingly, the study found that this disparity in prescribing pain medication exists regardless of whether the treating physician is male or female. Both male and female doctors are less likely to prescribe pain medication to women, indicating that the bias is pervasive and not limited to one sex of healthcare providers.The research also highlighted that nurses are 10% less likely to record pain scores for female patients compared to male patients. This lack of documentation can contribute to underestimating the severity of women's pain and result in inadequate treatment. Additionally, the study found that female patients spend an average of 30 minutes longer in the emergency department than male patients. This delay could be due to a variety of factors, including potentially being taken less seriously when they report pain or symptoms.In a controlled experiment, nurses judged female patients' pain as less intense than male patients' pain when presented with identical clinical scenarios. This suggests that there may be a subconscious bias in how healthcare professionals perceive and assess pain based on the patient's sex."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."Recommendations: The study argues that these findings reflect a systemic under-treatment of women's pain in medical settings. The researchers call for urgent policy interventions to address this bias and ensure equal pain treatment regardless of sex. They recommend training programs for healthcare professionals to recognize and counteract sex biases and suggest that pain management protocols should be revisited and standardized to ensure fair and adequate treatment for all patients.Source-Eurekalert
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Biocon Foundation and IISc organize OCTF Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Oral Cancer



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Did You Know?

Oral cancers belong to a category of cancers commonly known as head and neck cancers. These primarily affect the mouth and back of the throat. Mouth cancers are associated with tobacco consumption, alcohol intake, or both, while most throat cancers are attributed to the human papilloma virus (HPV). #oralcancer #artificialintelligence #cancerscreening #medindia

Oral cancers belong to a category of cancers commonly known as head and neck cancers. These primarily affect the mouth and back of the throat. Mouth cancers are associated with tobacco consumption, alcohol intake, or both, while most throat cancers are attributed to the human papilloma virus (HPV). #oralcancer #artificialintelligence #cancerscreening #medindia

Initiatives of Organizations to Use AI in Oral Cancer

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Biocon Foundation and IISc organise conference on 'Artificial Intelligence in Oral Cancer'



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Using AI to Minimize Effect of Oral Cancer: Views of Scientific and Industrial Experts

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Biocon Foundation and IISc organize OCTF Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Oral Cancer - (https://www.biocon.com/biocon-foundation-and-iisc-organize-octf-conference-on-artificial-intelligence-in-oral-cancer/)

A conference focusing on 'Artificial Intelligence in Oral Cancer,' took place at the IISc campus, marking World Head & Neck Cancer Day. It was the fifth edition of the Oral Cancer Task Force (OCTF) Conference, hosted on 2627 July 2024. The conference was conducted by Biocon Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) division of the Biocon Group, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru.The purpose of the conference was to promote collaboration across different fields and to enhance the Artificial Intelligence - Center of Excellence (AI-CoE) project. The event served as a platform for clinicians and scientists to discuss the progress in oral cancer screening methods for early detection ().Dr. Anupama Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, said, This year, we were honored to host the 5th edition of the OCTF Conference at the Indian Institute of Science, centered around the theme 'Artificial Intelligence in Oral Cancer'. Leading experts and researchers from organisations such as AIIMS Cachar Cancer Center and MPMMCC (Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Cancer Centre) shared advancements and best practices in preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral cancer. The publication of consensus guidelines for head and neck cancer, specific to the Indian subcontinents demographic and economic conditions, remains the annual highlight of the conference."The collaboration between the Biocon Foundation and IISc for the AI-CoE in Oral Cancer Projects involves 28 consortium partners, with IISc as the central hub. The Biocon Foundation leads phase 1 of the project, which focuses on creating an algorithm for an oral cancer screening tool called Aarogya Aarohan ().In addition, the Medical-Imaging and Information Datasets for India (MIDAS) is a nationwide project spearheaded by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and ARTPARK-IISc. The MIDAS project objective is to create extensive medical imaging datasets representing Indias diverse population. MIDAS will function as a technology-driven central system, supporting the development of top-notch medical datasets and promoting research and advancement in the healthcare industry throughout India.The fifth edition of the Oral Cancer Task Force Conference featured the launch of the revised India-specific guidelines for the Management of Head & Neck Cancer, which will be published in the. Dr. Neera Gupta, General Manager - Medical Affairs and Clinical Development at Eris Life Sciences Ltd., presented the updated guidelines.The distinguished scientists and key opinion leaders expressed their views at the conference.Dr. Anupama Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, said, The annual Oral Cancer Task Force conference is a powerful platform for united action.Prof. Debnath Pal, Computational Biologist, Indian Institute of Science, said, AI can catalyze an enabling ecosystem for addressing different challenges in healthcare and medicine.Prof. Rajesh Sundaresan, Dean, Division of EECS, IISc said, Our efforts will help bring down the burden of oral cancer by leveraging technology.Dr. GK Rath, Member, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board said, AI is a tool which we need to deploy to our advantage.Dr. Kumar Prabhash, Medical Oncologist, Tata Memorial Hospital said, AI has made significant strides in various aspects of oral cancer research and treatment.Dr. Moni Abraham Kuriakose, Co-Founder, MD & CEO, Karkinos Healthcare said, The AI-CoE project is pathbreaking and fosters an interdisciplinary approach to overcome the global health burden of oral cancer.Source-Medindia
Did You Know?

In 2020, the worldwide incidence rate of Multiple Sclerosis was recorded at 35.9 cases per 100,000 individuals. #multiplesclerosis #myelin #medindia

In 2020, the worldwide incidence rate of Multiple Sclerosis was recorded at 35.9 cases per 100,000 individuals. #multiplesclerosis #myelin #medindia

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Multiple Sclerosis and its Effects

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A cure for multiple sclerosis? Scientists say within our lifetime



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How the New Drug Would Help Multiple Sclerosis?

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How Clemastine - An Antihistaminic, Led to the New Drug!

A Snake Toxin Guided to the Target Receptors!

New Drug and its Clinical Trials  A Potential for Halting and Curing the Disease

A cure for multiple sclerosis? Scientists say within our lifetime - (https:www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/cure-multiple-sclerosis-scientists-say-within-our-lifetime)

A promising new medication for treating multiple sclerosis is currently undergoing clinical trials. The new drug is a result of a decade of dedicated research, aided by the green mamba snake! Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects both the brain and immune system. The brain is composed of a vast network of billions of neurons, which are the nerve cells responsible for transmitting signals that enable us to speak, move our limbs, and breathe. Each neuron is encased in myelin, a protective layer similar to the plastic insulation found on copper wires. However, in the case of MS, the immune system, which normally defends the body against pathogens, erroneously identifies myelin as a threat. This leads to the immune system attacking the myelin, the protective insulation around nerve cells, leaving their axons, which carry electrical impulses, exposed like bare wires. This can cause devastating problems with movement, balance and vision; and without treatment, it can lead to paralysis , loss of independence and a reduced lifespan ().Researchers at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), in collaboration with Contineum Therapeutics, have developed a drug that encourages the body to regenerate myelin, the protective insulation that is lost. If proven effective in humans, this treatment may offer a means to reverse the damage inflicted by the disease.The new drug known as PIPE-307 targets a specific receptor found on particular brain cells, which stimulates their development into myelin-producing oligodendrocytes. When this receptor is blocked, the oligodendrocytes become activated, encasing the axons to create a new myelin sheath.Michael Poon, PhD, a scientist at Contineum, successfully demonstrated the presence of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M1R) receptor on cells capable of repairing damaged fibers. Poon achieved this using a toxin from green mamba snake venom.The study, published on August 2 in the journal(PNAS), concludes a ten-year research effort by UCSF scientists Jonah Chan, PhD, and Ari Green, MD. In 2014, Chan led the team that discovered the potential of a little-known antihistamine, clemastine, to promote remyelination, a phenomenon previously thought to be unattainable.Ten years ago, we discovered one way that the body can regenerate its myelin in response to the right molecular signal, winding back the consequences of MS, said Chan, a Debbie and Andy Rachleff Distinguished Professor of Neurology at UCSF and senior author of the paper. By carefully studying the biology of remyelination, weve developed a precise therapy to activate it  the first of a new class of MS therapies.The original breakthrough came when Chan invented a method to screen drugs for their ability to instigate remyelination. The screen identified a group drugs, including clemastine, that had one thing in common: they blocked muscarinic receptors.Clemastine's benefits begin with its effect on oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). These cells stay dormant in the brain and spinal cord until they sense injured tissue. Then they move in and give rise to oligodendrocytes, which produce myelin.For some reason during MS, OPCs gather around decaying myelin but fail to rebuild it. Chan figured out that clemastine activated OPCs by blocking muscarinic receptors, enabling the OPCs to mature into myelin-producing oligodendrocytes.Nerves and their myelin are notoriously hard to repair, whether due to MS, dementia or other injury. Green and Chan carried out a trial of clemastine in patients with MS, and it was a success  the first time that a drug showed the capacity to restore the myelin lost in MS. Despite being safe to use, however, clemastine was only modestly effective.Clemastine is not a targeted drug, affecting several different pathways in the body, said Green, Chief of the Division of Neuroimmunology and Glial Biology in the UCSF Department of Neurology and co-author of the paper. But from the get-go, we saw that its pharmacology with muscarinic receptors could point us toward the next generation of restorative therapies in MS.The researchers continued using clemastine to understand the curative potential of regenerating myelin in MS. They developed a series of tools to monitor remyelination, both in animal models of MS and in MS patients, showing that the benefits seen with clemastine came from remyelination  and pointing the way for how new drugs should be tested and evaluated.They also found that clemastines benefits came from blocking just one of the five muscarinic receptors, M1R, but the effect on M1R was middling, and the drug also affected the other receptors. The ideal drug would need to zero in on M1R.At this point, the UCSF scientists needed an industry partner to advance the project. Ultimately, Contineum Therapeutics (then known as Pipeline Therapeutics) was formed to take a meticulous approach to creating that ideal drug. Chan and Green helped the company confirm that M1R was the right target for a remyelinating drug, and then make a drug that blocked it exclusively. Poon, a biologist at Contineum, realized that MT7, a toxin found in the venom of the deadly green mamba snake, could reveal exactly where M1R was in the brain.We needed to prove, beyond doubt, that M1R was present in OPCs that were near the damage caused by MS, Poon said. MT7, which is exquisitely selective for M1R, fit the bill.Poon used MT7 to engineer a molecular label for M1R that revealed rings of OPCs gathering around damage in a mouse model of MS and in human MS tissue.A team of medicinal chemists at Contineum, led by Austin Chen, Ph.D., then got to work on the drug that Chan and Green envisioned, designing PIPE-307 to potently block M1R and get into the brain.The researchers tested the effects of the new drug on OPCs grown in petri dishes and the animal models of MS using Chans and Greens methods for tracking remyelination. PIPE-307 blocked the M1R receptor much better than clemastine; prompted OPCs to mature into oligodendrocytes and begin myelinating nearby axons; and it crossed the blood-brain barrier. But most tellingly, it reversed the degradation seen in a mouse model of MS.A drug might seem to work in these abstract scenarios, affecting the right receptor or cell, but the key finding was actual recovery of nervous system function, Chan said.In 2021, PIPE-307 passed a Phase I clinical trial, demonstrating its safety. It is currently being tested in MS patients in Phase II.If it succeeds, it could transform how MS is treated.Every patient we diagnose with MS comes in with some degree of pre-existing injury, Green said. Now we might have a chance to not just stop their disease, but to also heal.Source-Euralaert
In the film, he plays a cold-blooded killer named Fani , and has been getting lauded for his role.

Raghav Juyal is basking in the success of his latest global sensation, Kill.

 Dharma Productions

Raghav Juyal recently spoke to MensXP about the critical reception of his film Kill, working with Salman Khan and his latest series Gyarah Gyarah.

MensXP: How are you soaking in the success of your latest film, Kill?

Raghav: I really didnt know that word-of-mouth was such a powerful thing, but I realised it after the release of Kill.

Girls are literally messaging me that they loved my character, but I am wondering, isnt Fani a murderer? But yeah, it feels great to pivot and make a mark in such an impressive film.

M: You have always been an entertainer but were never seen as a seasoned actor, did you take any acting classes for these roles?

R: Many people dont know this, but I am a trained actor. I have taken classes from Saurabh Sachdeva, and I have done many acting courses.

I might not be an FTII or NSD graduate, but I have travelled across places to learn this craft.

M: You did Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan with Salman Khan, and you knew that it was a no-brainer entertainer, so was it a conscious decision for you?

R: I got a call from him at 11-12 in the night and when he offered me a film, I decided that I would give my acting to Salman Bhai as a gift, so I didnt charge any money for it.

I was parallelly shooting for Kill and I was working in two different worlds; one, where I had to get under the skin of the character and make up my psyche, and the other, where I just had to reach on the sets. The scripts were written there and we had a ball shooting for KKBKKJ.

M: Your character in the movie Kill is highly manipulative and walks on a thin line of morality, what did you really do to pierce into the soul of Fani?

R: It is not the dialogue delivery or the menacing appearance that makes the villain great, it is actually the small traits in his personality.

For example, for catching the Bihari accent in the film, I asked every possible question from my director who also has a connection to Bihar, which helped me a lot.

M: You shot for your latest series Gyarah Gyarah in your hometown, Dehradun, did you face any difficulty there?

R: I made a huge mistake shooting in Dehradun because my friends were constantly interrupting the shoot and I was playing a serious character, so I had a very tough time.

I somehow managed the shoot for the series, but I will never shoot anything in my hometown again!

After Kill and Gyarah Gyarah, Raghav will next be seen in Yudhra.

You can watch Gyarah Gyarah on Zee 5.
Army Lt. Gen. Jonathan Stubbs took over Saturday as the acting head of the National Guard Bureau while it waits for the Senate to confirm a permanent leader, the Guard said in a press release Monday.

Stubbs, a prior-enlisted infantry officer who rose to become adjutant general of the Arkansas National Guard in January 2023, was confirmed as the Army National Guard's new boss on July 31. But in the absence of a lawmaker-approved four-star to lead the Guard as a whole, Stubbs must instead fill the most senior role.

Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson departed Aug. 2 after four years as NGB chief. President Joe Biden's pick to replace him, Air Force Lt. Gen. Steven Nordhaus, has yet to be confirmed by the Senate after a late nomination on July 23. Nordhaus currently leads the Air Force branch that oversees operations in North America, including missions to secure American airspace.

Read Next: Tim Walz, Who Spent Decades as an Enlisted Soldier, Brings Years of Work on Vets Issues to Dem Ticket

If confirmed, Nordhaus -- a career fighter pilot who also served as the National Guard Bureau's operations director before taking a senior Air Force role at North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD -- would oversee more than 430,000 soldiers and airmen across the 50 states, three territories and the District of Columbia.

The National Guard boss serves as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and acts as a conduit between the Guard's 54 states and territories and federal officials in Washington.

Hokanson's retirement set off a shuffle within the Guard. A combination of late-arriving nominations -- or none at all -- to fill senior roles, as well as the Senate's summer break, has made for multiple vacancies in leadership roles. Those include the bureau's chief and vice chief, the latter of which has sat open since May without a nominee, and the Air National Guard's No. 1 officer.

The leadership vacuum is unprecedented in recent years, and could have been avoided if nominations had been sent to the Senate earlier, said John Goheen, a spokesman for the National Guard Association of the United States. While the day-to-day operations of state Guard units may continue unscathed, he said, the delay slows the influx of new ideas from a fresh leadership slate with the authority to make changes.

"The Guard's a strong organization with very strong local leadership," Goheen said. "The Guard's going to continue on; the Guard's going to accomplish the mission, but this is not an ideal situation with all these acting people."

Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Jack Reed, D-R.I., whose panel starts the congressional vetting process for Pentagon nominees, said last month the committee could hold a hearing on Nordhaus before lawmakers left for their August recess. But the chamber adjourned Aug. 1 without that hearing on the books, leaving National Guard troops without a confirmed leader until mid-September at the earliest.

A spokesperson for the Senate Armed Services Committee did not answer Tuesday when the panel might schedule a hearing to consider Nordhaus' nomination after lawmakers return Sept. 9.

The Guard Bureau's leadership shuffle comes in the midst of a busy hurricane season that has prompted states to dispatch Guardsmen to staff natural disaster response efforts, and ahead of a potentially volatile presidential election, when governors could lean on the Guard to fight attacks on electronic election infrastructure, support polling stations or quell civil unrest.

Goheen questioned whether having multiple acting Guard officials might cause hiccups in critical decision-making among military leaders.

"I'm sure the Joint Chiefs would like to know what's going on with the hurricane that's coming up the East Coast," he said. "The chief, or the acting chief, would be the ideal person, consulting with the adjutants general in that particular region, to provide that particular information, and also to advise the White House. ... I'm not sure the other members of the Joint Chiefs or [Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ] Brown knows how this is exactly going to work."

In the meantime, Army Maj. Gen. Joseph Baldwin, the deputy director of the Army National Guard, will act as the Army Guard's director while Stubbs serves as acting bureau chief, the National Guard Bureau said Monday.

Air Force Maj. Gen. M. Luke Ahmann, the Guard Bureau's programs and requirements director, will step in as the National Guard's acting vice chief, the bureau said. Ahmann, who will be promoted to lieutenant general, is set to take over for Nordhaus when he departs 1st Air Force for the National Guard's top spot.

And Maj. Gen. Duke Pirak, now the Air National Guard's deputy director, will continue serving as acting ANG director as he awaits Senate approval to formally hold the job. Pirak took over as acting director after the Air Guard's previous leader, Lt. Gen. Michael Loh, retired in June.

The Associated Press reported July 19 that the Pentagon has recommended Army Maj. Gen. Joseph Jarrard to be the Guard's vice chief. The White House has not yet submitted his name to the Senate for consideration.

Related: National Guard May Be Without Leadership After Last-Minute White House Nomination for New Chief
William L. Calley Jr., as a young U.S. Army lieutenant, became a central figure in the My Lai massacre, one of the most infamous incidents of the Vietnam War.

Then he largely disappeared from the public eye for decades. So much so that his death, in a Florida hospice center at age 80 in late April, wasn't publicly reported until last week.

He quietly lived most of those intervening years in Georgia, some in midtown Atlanta but particularly in Columbus, near Fort Moore where he had been court-martialed and convicted of premeditated murder of Vietnamese civilians.

Related: War Criminal or Scapegoat: William Calley and the Enduring Memory of the My Lai Massacre

He had seemed "ordinary," "quiet," "respectful," according to two Georgia attorneys who knew him some -- one who represented him and another who prosecuted him for the massacre.

Not that Calley didn't have some turmoil in his later life. He went through a divorce, filed for personal bankruptcy protection and dealt with health issues.

But Calley didn't serve the life sentence with hard labor that a court-martial panel of six Army officers gave him for his crimes.

On March 16, 1968, in a cluster of hamlets in Vietnam, U.S. troops, who had been directed to search for Viet Cong fighters and destroy their resources, killed, often at close range, hundreds of civilians, mostly women, children and elderly men over a few hours.

Calley, then a young lieutenant who had been deployed to Vietnam only about three months earlier, ordered his men to kill unresisting, unarmed villagers. According to an appeals court record, Calley also repeatedly fired on detained civilians who were along a trail and others who were forced into a ditch, where they were killed as they knelt and squatted. He also was found guilty of murdering a man who appeared to be a monk and of trying to murder a child of about two years old who had attempted to flee, before Calley allegedly threw the child back into the ditch and fired.

Calley said he was following orders. He was convicted of premeditated murder of at least 22 civilians and assault with intent to murder a child. He was the only person ever convicted in the massacre.

The slaughter and Calley became touchpoints in the public's deeply polarized view of the overall conflict. Some at the time believed he was a scapegoat for higher-ranking officers. For others, his culpability was undeniable, and that if there were illegal orders to kill civilians, he had a duty to not carry them out.

His initial life sentence was sharply reduced and President Richard Nixon shifted him to house arrest. Calley was paroled after about three years.

He remained in Columbus, married, had a son, went to work at his in-laws' jewelry store and learned how to evaluate gems. Decades later, he and wife Penny Vick separated.

Lynn Grogan, a Columbus divorce attorney whom Calley hired, said early on she asked her new client about his Vietnam past.

"He didn't want to talk about it," she remembered in a recent interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "He made it very clear that was a different part of his life, and he was not going to relive it."

Grogan has trouble reconciling "the awful things" Calley did with the soft-spoken client. "A gentle man. That's the one I knew," she said.

For decades, Calley politely declined occasional interview requests from reporters.

But one of his key duties at the Columbus jewelry store had been to greet customers, which was difficult for him at first, given how he felt people viewed his actions at My Lai, Grogan said he later confided. With time, "that got easier and easier. People became more accepting of him."

John Partin, who had been the military's assistant prosecutor in the murder cases against Calley, said every once in a while he would see Calley around Columbus, sometimes while dining in the same restaurant. "It was odd because he was a free man despite what he was found guilty of."

In those interactions, "we were respectful of each other," doing little more than greeting each other.

Partin, now 80, said he protested the reduction in Calley's sentence. "He should have served an appropriate time to recognize the seriousness of the crimes he committed."

Beyond Calley being a quiet man, Partin saw him as "an ordinary person, an individual who in the worst circumstance, did not act appropriately."

Decades after the court-martial, Partin represented Calley's then-wife in the couple's divorce case. Vick did not respond to requests for comment from the AJC.

Years before the divorce was completed, Calley moved to Atlanta, where he lived with his son as the younger Calley sought a Ph.D. in engineering from Georgia Tech. The son, Laws Calley, did not respond to requests for comment.

Father and son lived together in a home off Juniper Street, about three blocks from Piedmont Park. In 2013, the older Calley made a Chapter 7 bankruptcy court filing. Nearly 70 years old at the time, he reported relying solely on Social Security for regular income and reported receiving a $40,000 personal loan from his son.

The following year, his divorce was finalized, and Calley was awarded half the value of a house he and his wife had previously shared in Columbus, plus half of the money in his former wife's IRA, according to a final order Grogan shared.

While Calley remained publicly quiet most of his life, he did speak out at least once in recent decades. At the invitation of a friend in Columbus, he returned to the city in 2009 to speak to a local Kiwanis Club. A retired journalist was at the gathering and later reported what Calley said.

"I feel remorse for the Vietnamese who were killed, for their families, for the American soldiers involved and their families. I am very sorry," Calley said.

Later, a member of the audience asked about whether obeying an unlawful order is itself unlawful. Calley reportedly said, "I believe that is true. If you are asking why I did not stand up to them when I was given the orders, I will have to say that I was a second lieutenant getting orders from my commander, and I followed them -- foolishly, I guess."

There's no indication he ever again spoke publicly on the subject.

Calley eventually was diagnosed with prostate cancer and had other health issues, according to a Smithsonian Magazine article in 2018, citing an earlier legal brief.

Later in life, Calley, who had grown up in south Florida, moved back to the state. He settled in Gainesville, the same Florida city where his three sisters had lived, at least for a time, and where his father had died while the younger Calley was under house arrest.

Partin, the former prosecutor, said that he believes many people alive today have never heard of Calley or what happened at My Lai. But he said he's proud of the case that was brought against the lieutenant and is glad for broader changes in military training as a result.

Grogan, Calley's divorce attorney, said for years after she finished representing him, he'd send her thoughtful cards. The notes were "just telling me he was doing fine, thanking me for helping him."

-- Jennifer Peebles contributed to this report.

 2024 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Visit at ajc.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
MANILA, Philippines  The United States, Australia, Canada and the Philippines held air and naval maneuvers Wednesday in a show of force that they said aimed to promote the rule of law in the disputed South China Sea, where China has increasingly asserted its territorial claims.

In an apparent response, China said it conducted air and sea combat patrols on the same day. The Philippine military said three Chinese navy ships tailed the four-nation maneuvers off the western coast of the Philippines, but did not provide more details.

Adm. Samuel Paparo, who heads the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and top military and defense commanders from Australia, Canada and the Philippines said in a joint statement that they stand together to address common maritime challenges and underscore our shared dedication to upholding international law and the rules-based order. They said they were staging the two-day exercises to uphold unhindered passage in the Indo-Pacific region.

China has long claimed much of the South China Sea, a key global trade and security route, and vowed to defend its territorial interests at all costs. Its claims overlap those of smaller coastal states, including the Philippines and Vietnam, hampering their access to traditional fishing areas and disrupting oil and gas exploration in their internationally recognized exclusive economic zones.

The naval and air force units of participating nations will operate together, enhancing cooperation and interoperability between our armed forces, the commanders said. The activity will be conducted in a manner that is consistent with international law and with due regard to the safety of navigation and the rights and interests of other states.

The Philippine military said Wednesday's drills included combined sea passage maneuvers and communications drills with assault helicopters flying low over the navy ships in the high seas. An anti-submarine warfare drill was also planned, it said.

A Philippine navy spokesperson, Rear Adm. Roy Trinidad, said the exercises were not directed at any country but were a collective expression of support for a rules-based international order.

China said it held joint sea and air combat patrols on Wednesday near Scarborough Shoal, a disputed territory in the South China Sea, in an apparent response to the exercises. The Philippine military said it did not monitor any Chinese combat patrols at the shoal.

A short statement from the Chinese militarys Southern Theater Command indicated that it was aware of military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and that they were under control. China regularly accuses the U.S., the Philippines and others of undermining regional peace and stability though their military activities.

Paparo and the other military commanders, Adm. David Johnston of the Australian Defense Force, Gen. Jennie Carignan of the Canadian Armed Forces and Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said their countries uphold the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, as well as respect for maritime rights under international law."

They did not mention China by name but said their nations affirm a 2016 arbitration ruling on the South China Sea disputes as a final and legally binding decision on the parties to the dispute. The ruling invalidated Chinas expansive claims in the South China Sea, but Beijing refused to participate in the Philippines-initiated arbitration, rejected the decision and continues to defy it.

Hostilities in the disputed waters have flared particularly between Chinese and Philippine coast guard and naval forces at two disputed shoals since last year, renewing fears that the confrontations could degenerate into a larger armed conflict involving the United States, Manilas longtime treaty ally.

After an alarmingly violent June 17 confrontation at Philippine-occupied Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, China and the Philippines reached a temporary agreement last month aimed at preventing further clashes.
WASHINGTON  Calling for calm in the Middle East, top U.S. national security leaders said Tuesday that they and allies are directly pressing Israel, Iran and others to avoid escalating the conflict, even as the U.S. moved more troops to the region and threatened retaliation if American forces are attacked.

Its urgent that everyone in the region take stock of the situation, understand the risk of miscalculation, and make decisions that will calm tensions, not exacerbate them, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said at the close of a meeting with Australian leaders.

At the same time, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin noted the attack Monday on U.S. forces in Iraq by an Iranian-backed militia group, which injured seven personnel, and made it clear that the U.S. won't hesitate to respond.

Make no mistake, the United States will not tolerate attacks on our personnel in the region, Austin told reporters at a press conference after the meeting. And we remain ready to deploy on short notice to meet the evolving threats to our security, our partners or our interests.

He said an Iranian-backed Shia militia group conducted the attack, but officials are still trying to determine which one.

Blinken and Austin met with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defense Minister Richard Marles at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, to discuss efforts to expand military cooperation and broaden diplomatic efforts in the Asia Pacific.

But they led their remarks with calls for de-escalation and support for a cease-fire. Australia also underlines the risks to all in the region of escalation and of miscalculation, said Wong, calling this a decisive moment for a cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas.

Their comments came as Hamas named Yahya Sinwar  a masterminded of the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel that set off the war  as its new leader, fueling fears that the announcement will provoke Israel and that tensions will escalate into broader war.

Tehran has also vowed revenge against Israel over the killing last week of Hamas top political leader in Iran, and Lebanon's Hezbollah is threatening retaliation over an Israeli strike that killed one of the group's senior commanders in Beirut.

It has all complicated efforts by American, Egyptian and Qatari mediators to salvage negotiations over the cease-fire and hostage release deal in Gaza.

Blinken said further attacks will only perpetuate conflict, adding that weve been engaged in intense diplomacy with allies and partners communicating that message directly to Iran. We communicated that message directly to Israel.

Still, Austin laid out a number of U.S. military troops movements in recent days to help defend Israel from possible attacks by Iran and its proxies and to safeguard U.S. troops, including the deployments of additional fighter jets. He also said the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier will replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt in the region later this month.

According to a U.S. official, about a dozen F/A-18 fighter jets and an E-2D Hawkeye surveillance aircraft from the USS Theodore Roosevelt flew from the Gulf of Oman to a military base in the Middle East on Monday.

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.

U.S. officials released more details on Tuesday about the rocket attack that hit the military base in Iraq on Tuesday. They said five U.S. service members and two contractors were hurt when two rockets hit the al-Asad airbase.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military personnel, said five of those injured were being treated at the airbase and two were evacuated, but all seven were 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.

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.
Title: Enhancing tidal Energys Potential with Innovative Methodologies







(Resource Reconnaissance: Methods for Identifying Optimal Tidal Energy Sites)

Title: Mastering the Art of Resource Recognition to Discover Optimal Tidal Energy Sites  A Comprehensive Guide

In the ever-changing world of energy sources, there are some options that stand out above the rest. One such option is tidal energy, which harnesses the power of tides to generate electricity. However, how do we actually go about identifying optimal tidal energy sites? In this article, well explore some innovative methods for resource recognition and delve into the science behind it.

1. Real-time Image Analysis

Real-time image analysis is one of the most effective methods for identifying optimal tidal energy sites. This technique involves capturing high-resolution images of the tide and analyzing their patterns. By analyzing these images, engineers can identify areas where tides occur at high speeds or levels, providing valuable insights into the availability of potential tidal energy resources. For example, companies like solar energy giant Han has implemented real-time image analysis techniques to monitor the tides and identify areas where tidal energy can be harnessed.

2. Dynamic Impulse Research

Dynamic impulse research involves using the flow of water to study the behavior of waves over time. This technique allows researchers to assess the effectiveness of different approaches to tidal energy production, including underwater storage technologies, transistors, and biofuels. By analyzing the impact of different approaches on tides and energy output, researchers can better understand the potential of each technology and choose the best solution for their specific needs.

3. Oceanic Metrics

Oceanic metrics, such as salinity and temperature, can also provide valuable information for identifying optimal tidal energy sites. These metrics help researchers determine the level of salinity required to sustain a sustainable tidal energy production process, while keeping water temperature within safe levels. For instance, companies like the U.S. Army have implemented oceanic metrics to optimize tidal energy production in underwater communities, ensuring the safety of personnel and minimizing environmental impact.

4. Unmanned Research

Unmanned research involves sending unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to the tides and investigate potential tidal energy sites. These equipped with cameras, sensors, and other equipment allow researchers to track the movement of tides and their impact on renewable energy systems. By conducting successful research campaigns, organizations can gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of different tidal energy technologies and improve their decision-making processes.







(Resource Reconnaissance: Methods for Identifying Optimal Tidal Energy Sites)

In conclusion, understanding the role of tidal energy in modern energy infrastructure is crucial for the continued development of sustainable solutions. By leveraging innovative methods for resource recognition, we can explore more promising opportunities for tidal energy development and minimize the negative impacts associated with traditional energy sources.

Inquiry us

if you want to want to know more, please feel free to contact us. (nanotrun@yahoo.com)
The Cubs have signed right-hander Adrian Houser to a minor league deal, according to his transactions tracker at MLB.com. He started yesterdays game for Triple-A Iowa, tossing 46 pitches over 2 2/3 innings.

Houser, 31, started the year in the Mets rotation but was later bumped to the bullpen and eventually off the roster entirely. By the first week of May, he had made six starts but allowed 26 earned runs in 28 2/3 innings for an 8.16 earned run average. He then made two relief appearances before making his seventh start of the year, in which he allowed six earned runs in five innings.

He only pitched in relief from that point forward and had much better results. From May 26 to July 24, he tossed 31 2/3 relief innings with a 3.41 ERA. His 18.6% strikeout rate was low but his 6.2% walk rate and 51.6% ground ball rate were both strong.

Those numbers were roughly in line with his previous track record. From 2019 to 2023 with the Brewers, he made 120 appearances, 97 of those being starts. In that time, he had a 4.04 ERA, 19.2% strikeout rate, 9.2% walk rate and 52.5% ground ball rate.

That suggests Houser was more or less the same guy with the Mets this year, apart from the rough start to the campaign. Though he had gotten things back on track, the Mets were getting various injured pitchers back from the IL and needed roster spots, nudging Houser off.

Since Houser has more than five years of major league service time, he had the right to reject an outright assignment while retaining all that remained of this years $5.05MM salary. Since he was bound for the open market anyway, the Mets simply released him. That leaves them on the hook for whats left of that salary while the Cubs will only have to pay him the prorated league minimum for any time spent on the roster, with that amount subtracted from what the Mets pay.

The Cubs major league rotation is in a decent spot, consisting of Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Javier Assad and Kyle Hendricks. But they have some starting depth on the shelf right now, as each of Ben Brown, Jordan Wicks and Hayden Wesneski are on the IL. Prospects like Cade Horton and Kohl Franklin are also injured at the moment, further thinning out the emergency options. Based on yesterdays usage, it seems the Cubs will stretch Houser out and he will give them some experienced non-roster depth who can be called upon for essentially no cost at some point.
The Royals have released right-hander Tyler Duffey, according to a report from Robert Murray of FanSided this afternoon. Duffey pitched out of the clubs bullpen earlier this year but was outrighted off the 40-man roster back in May.

The 31-year-old is a veteran of 10 big league seasons who first made his debut with the Twins back in 2015. A starting pitcher back then, Duffey impressed in ten starts with Minnesota in his rookie season as he posted a 3.10 ERA and 3.24 FIP in 58 innings of work down the stretch. Unfortunately for Duffey, he struggled badly in his first full season in a rotation role as a big leaguer. The righty made 26 starts for the Twins in 2016, but he posted an atrocious 6.43 ERA with a lackluster 4.73 FIP in his 133 innings of work. That performance ended his days as a starter pitcher, but after some mixed results early in his move to the bullpen he emerged as a steady contributor in the Twins relief corps.

From 2019 to 2021, Duffey posted an excellent 2.69 ERA with a 3.16 FIP while striking out an excellent 29.8% of batters in 144 innings of work. Those impressive numbers led the Twins to bring Duffey back in 2022 on a one-year, $3.8MM contract signed just before the non-tender deadline, but that move did not end up working out well for Minnesota. Duffey wound up regressing significantly as his ERA ballooned to 4.91 in 44 innings of work while his strikeout rate plummeted to just 21.1%. Duffeys struggles eventually proved significant enough that the Twins opted to part ways with the righty entirely, designating him for assignment in early August of that year.

The righty briefly caught on with the Yankees and Rangers late in the year after being cut loose by the Twins but wouldnt appear in the big leagues again until October of the following year when he was briefly brought up by the Cubs nearly eight months after he signed a minor league deal to pitch in the organization. While he managed just two innings of work in Chicago, Duffey posted a respectable 3.77 ERA in 45 1/3 innings of work at Triple-A for the clubs Iowa affiliate last year. That performance was enough to earn Duffey another minor league deal last winter, this time in the Royals organization.

Since signing with the Royals, 2024 has proven to be a rollercoaster year for Duffey. The right-hander underwent a procedure to treat melanoma during Spring Training after a cancerous mole was discovered during his physical after signing with Kansas City, and while he didnt make the Opening Day roster he did get selected to the big leagues in late April. Unfortunately, the right-handers brief stay in the majors did not go well as he surrendered a 5.00 ERA in nine appearances and walked 19% of the batters he faced. Duffey was outrighted to the minors in late May and has pitched to an excellent 2.01 ERA in 22 1/3 innings of work since his demotion.

Hell now head back into free agency in search of an opportunity to crack a big league roster elsewhere. Given the rightys track record and success in the minors this year, its certainly feasible to imagine a team being interested in bringing Duffey into the fold at least as a non-roster depth option, and its possible a team could even be willing to give him a shot at the big league level in fairly short order.
DETROIT - Theres still plenty of summer left where you can actually take a ride on a Tiki bar boat on Michigan waters.

Nick and Jody Blaszcyk launched Aloha Tiki Tours back in 2019 and have been helping people party on the water ever since.

The Blaszcyks are also the people behind the Detroit Pedal Pub and the Detroit Cycle Boat, including The Big Kahuna.

The Tiki bar boat tours are available in four places: Detroit, St. Clair Shores, Wyandotte and Port Huron. Tours can be booked here.

Each Tiki boat holds up to six people. And new for 2024 is the 30 passenger Tiki boat.

Tours last two hours and come with their own captain. Guests must bring your own food and drinks and can play their own music via Bluetooth speakers.

We celebrate everything from birthdays, to work outings or just to get out and have some fun with friends, Nick Blaszcyk told MLive. The favorite thing for me is that so many people know Detroit, but they dont see it from this side of the view.

Prices range from $250 to $330 depending on the day and time. The 30 passenger boat is $1,000. Tours go through the end of October and start at 10 a.m. each day with the last boats going out around sunset.

Bookings open up each year in February and Blaszcyk says weekends generally sell out by April.
COLDWATER, MI -- Three people have now been arrested after an investigation into a drug overdose at a Michigan prison.

William Williamson, a prisoner at Lakeland Correctional in Coldwater, died in October 2023 after ingesting balloons filled with methamphetamine.

Dezaray Brown-Bobo, 24, allegedly gave the drug-filled balloons to Williamson during a visit on Oct. 27, according to Michigan State Police. Brown-Bobo was arrested in March, according to an MSP press release. She was charged with multiple felonies including delivery of a controlled substance causing death.

RELATED: Prisoner died after swallowing smuggled meth balloons, woman charged

Another prisoner at the Coldwater facility, Evellis McGee, 30, was arrested in late July for their role in the smuggling operation, the release said.

A third individual, Aaliyah Monet Lent, 24, was arrested in Detroit on Aug. 2 by the MSP Fugitive Team for smuggling contraband into the prison and is being lodged in the Branch County Jail, per the release.

All three have been arraigned and are awaiting court dates, the release said.

Wilson had an in-person visit from Brown-Bobo, the Michigan Department of Corrections found. Security footage showed the woman smuggled a small object into the prison from inside of her clothing and handed it to Wilson, police said.

Wilson then swallowed the object, police said.

Days later, an autopsy found the prisoner had both broken and unbroken balloons inside his body. Testing determined the balloons contained meth and the cause of death was a meth overdose that happened while he was trying to regurgitate the balloons.

Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter.
EDITORS NOTE: The Kent County Clerks website initially listed the incomplete total numbers with all precincts reporting. The story was changed to reflect the accurate top vote-getters.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Voters narrowed down a crowded field of six candidates running for the Third Ward seat on the Grand Rapids City Commission in the Tuesday, Aug. 6 primary election.

According to unofficial election results from the Kent County Clerks Office, incumbent city commissioner Bing Goei and Marshall Kilgore earned the most votes in the Third Ward race, which means they will advance to a run-off election in November to determine who will win the seat.

Goei came in first place on Tuesday with 3,113 votes (or 29.92% of the vote), and Kilgore came in second with 2,901 votes (27.88%), according to the unofficial results.

The four candidates who were defeated in the primary were John Krajewski, who earned 2,641 votes (25.38%); Reggie Howard with 893 votes (8.58%); Joyce Priscilla Gipson with 604 votes (5.08%); and Al Willis with 216 votes (2.08%).

The Kent County Clerks Office website initially had Krajewski as the top vote-getter with all 12 precincts reporting at 11:30 p.m. Tuesday. However, the website updated the result totals by midnight, with Goei in the lead and Kilgore in second.

Primary election results are considered unofficial until they are certified.

RELATED: Meet the 6 candidates running for Grand Rapids Third Ward seat in primary election

The Third Ward seat up for grabs this fall is currently held by Goei, who was unanimously appointed to the role in March by the city commission to replace former commissioner Nathaniel Moody. Moody resigned late last year citing personal reasons.

The citys Third Ward is located on the citys southeast side and is generally defined by Wealthy Street to the north, Jefferson Avenue to the west and the citys boundaries with neighboring municipalities to the south and east.

Goei was appointed last year to the city commission, becoming the first Asian American to serve on the body. He is the owner of Eastern Floral in Kentwood and the Goei Center venue in Grand Rapids.

Goei was appointed by former Gov. Rick Snyder as the first director of the Michigan Office for New Americans and he has served on a variety of boards and commissions in the area, including those for the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, the Grand Rapids Community Relations Commission and the West Michigan Asian American Association. His campaign site is linked here.

Kilgore is the director of engagement at West Michigan Environmental Action Council and also serves as a board member for Seeds of Promise and on the citys Vital Streets Oversight Commission, Housing Appeals Board and the Urban Agriculture Committee.

Kilgore previously made an unsuccessful run for the Kalamazoo City Commission in 2021.
In the Tuesday, Aug. 6, primary election, voters from across Michigan narrowed the field to one candidate per party in each Michigan House of Representatives district.

Below are live election results for the Republican and Democratic state House primary races in south central Michigan. Results will update as they roll in, once the polls close at 8 p.m.

The districts include the Ann Arbor, Lansing, Jackson and Battle Creek areas, plus districts along the Ohio border (as shown on the map above).

State House results in other parts of Michigan:

Metro Detroit districts

Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Muskegon areas

Flint, Saginaw, Bay City, Northern Michigan, U.P. districts

(Result tables and maps may take a moment to load, but once they have it is not necessary to refresh your browser for updated results.)

State House District 23

State House District 32

State House District 33

State House District 34

State House District 35

State House District 44

State House District 45

State House District 46

State House District 47

State House District 48

State House District 49

State House District 50

State House District 51

State House District 70

State House District 73

State House District 74

State House District 75

State House District 76

State House District 77

For more MLive election coverage, visit mlive.com/topic/election-2024.
Michigan residents cast their votes to narrow the field to one candidate per party on Tuesday, Aug. 6, in every Michigan House of Representatives district.

Below are live election results for the Republican and Democratic state House primary races in Southeast Michigan Michigan. Results will update as they roll in, once the polls close at 8 p.m.

The districts include the metro Detroit area (as shown on the map above).

State House results in other parts of Michigan:

Ann Arbor, Jackson, Lansing areas, plus Ohio border districts

Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Muskegon areas

Flint, Saginaw, Bay City, Northern Michigan, U.P. districts

(Result tables and maps may take a moment to load, but once they have it is not necessary to refresh your browser for updated results.)

State House District 1

State House District 2

State House District 3

State House District 4

State House District 5

State House District 6

State House District 7

State House District 8

State House District 9

State House District 10

State House District 11

State House District 12

State House District 13

State House District 14

State House District 15

State House District 16

State House District 17

State House District 18

State House District 19

State House District 20

State House District 21

State House District 22

State House District 23

State House District 24

State House District 25

State House District 26

State House District 27

State House District 28

State House District 29

State House District 30

State House District 31

State House District 32

State House District 49

State House District 50

State House District 51

State House District 52

State House District 53

State House District 54

State House District 55

State House District 56

State House District 57

State House District 58

State House District 59

State House District 60

State House District 61

State House District 62

State House District 63

State House District 64

State House District 65

State House District 66

For more MLive election coverage, visit mlive.com/topic/election-2024.
They were unlikely candidates.

William Null and Eric Molitor, formerly charged and later found not guilty of assisting in a plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, lost their bids for elected office during the primary election Tuesday.

Incumbent Wexford County Sheriff Trent Taylor claimed 83% of the vote, beating 40-year-old Molitor of Clam Lake Township 3,308-661, based on unofficial results released at 1:20 a.m. Tuesday.

Photo provided to MLive by Eric Molitor and taken by Jeff and Jess Dobbs of Framed by Nature Photography, https://www.framedbynaturephotography.com/Courtesy of Framed by Nature Photography

Null, 42, received the fewest votes, 190 of 1,371 cast, about 14%, among five candidates vying for two Orangeville Township trustees seats in Barry County.

Null fared better in his bid to become a precinct delegate at Barry Countys Republican convention this fall. He placed fourth with 11% of the 3,310 votes cast for eight of nine candidates who were selected, based on unofficial results.

Neither Null nor Molitor immediately responded to MLive requests for comment on the election when called on Wednesday morning.

Political experts who spoke with MLive in the lead-up to the primary election said the candidacies by men with militia ties are representative of a far-right shift emerging in local Michigan politics.

Related: Extremist or hero? Meet Michigans freedom-loving constitutional sheriff

Both men espoused an appreciation for Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, who aligns with the right-wing Constitutional Peace Officers and Sheriffs Association and has conducted a years-long and ongoing election fraud investigation in Barry County that began after the 2020 presidential election.

Null held at least one campaign event with Leaf, who handily won his sixth term as the Barry County Sheriff with 57% of the vote, based on unofficial results.

Related: Michigans constitutional sheriff defeats Republican challengers in landslide

The AGs Office accused Null and Molitor of helping two since-convicted plotters, Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr., in their plan to kidnap Whitmer from her vacation home in Elk Rapids in 2020.

Null and Molitor, who participated in surveillance trips to Whitmers vacation home, took the stand during trial and downplayed their knowledge and support of the overarching plan. They believe they were entrapped by an overzealous government investigation.

A jury found Null and Molitor not guilty in Antrim County last year. In total, five accused plotters were acquitted, five were convicted by juries and four admitted guilt as part of plea deals.

Related: Acquitted in Whitmer kidnap plot and running for office: How extremism is going mainstream

Molitor, an unemployed, divorced father of two, has worked in security but has no law enforcement experience (which is not required to run for sheriff in Michigan).

Null, a married father of two children, 17 and 20, operates a construction business with his twin brother and son.

Both men touted small-government ideals aimed at fighting what they perceive as overstepping state and federal government.

Molitors said, if elected, he wouldnt enforce unconstitutional laws, such as previous mask mandates or red-flag laws, aimed at seizing guns from residents deemed a safety risk by Michigan judges.

While their first runs at public office failed, Null, at least, has said he may have future plans.

Null in June told MLive he plans to run for governor in 2026.

The chances of winning are slim to none, he said, but Id like to see my name on the ticket anyway.
KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- Voters have selected a captain from a neighboring countys sheriffs office to compete with incumbent Kalamazoo County Sheriff Richard Fuller for the seat in the November election.

During the Tuesday, Aug. 6 election, Republicans James J. Charon and Sabrina Pritchett-Evans faced off for the Republican nomination for the office, a four-year term.

Charon received 11,288 votes, or 68%. Pritchett-Evans received 5,189 votes (31%), according to unofficial totals from the Kalamazoo County Clerks Office.

RELATED: Live election results for Kalamazoo-area races, Aug. 6, 2024

Charon, 44, is currently a captain at the Van Buren County Sheriffs Office. He has a bachelors degree from Ferris State University in criminal justice and graduated in March 2020 from Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, according to a voter guide survey.

Charon said he has 18 years of law enforcement experience and he currently supervises the jail, road patrol, dispatch, narcotics and criminal investigation divisions. His experience includes work as a Van Buren County SWAT Commander, the FBI-LEEDA Executive Leadership Institute and work as a child forensic interviewer, according to his voter guide survey answers.

Democrat Richard Fuller, 60, has been county sheriff since 2008 and faced no Democratic opposition on the ballot in the primary.

Fuller has 37 years in emergency service, he said. That includes 35 years with Kalamazoo County Sheriffs Office, with over 15 years as sheriff. He has prior experience as police officer, firefighter, EMT and dispatcher, Fuller said in his voter guide survey responses.

Fuller has a high school diploma from Marshall High School, an associates in law enforcement from Kellogg Community College and a bachelors in organizational management from Spring Arbor University. Fuller also lists FBI-LEEDA and BJA Jail Administrator as experience on his voter guide responses.

Kalamazoo County Sheriff Richard Fuller addresses a crowd at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, before Vice President Kamala Harris entered.Devin Anderson-Torrez | MLive.com

Pritchett-Evans called herself a constitutional sheriff candidate and said shes lived in the county for over 35 years. She said in a video posted on her campaign Facebook page that she started to think about running after COVID started, and she began looking into the role and responsibilities of the office of sheriff.

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ANN ARBOR, MI  Incumbent Jen Eyer has defeated challenger Mozhgan Savabieasfahani in the 4th Ward Democratic primary race for Ann Arbor City Council.

With all 10 precincts fully counted, Eyer had 79% of the vote, the countys unofficial results show.

The vote count was 3,115 to 780.

Live election results for Tuesday, Aug. 6 primary in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County

The matchup between Eyer and Savabieasfahani in the ward covering the southwest part of the city was the only contested council primary race in Ann Arbor.

Ann Arbor's ward boundaries.City of Ann Arbor

Eyer, who is seeking a second four-year term, now advances unopposed to the November general election, as do four of her allies running unopposed for other council seats.

That includes incumbent Lisa Disch in Ward 1, newcomer Jon Mallek in Ward 2 and incumbents Travis Radina and Erica Briggs in Wards 3 and 5.

The victors celebrated on Election Night at Montys Public House on Packard Road.

Ann Arbor City Council Member Jen Eyer Democrat 4th Ward speaks at Montys Public House during Primary election night in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Josh Boland | MLive.com

This resounding victory is a testament to Ann Arbor voters believing in our vision for the future  a vision that is infused with optimism and ready to continue tackling the challenges we face, Eyer said in a statement.

Ward 4 has acknowledged the progress weve made on affordable housing, climate action, improved city services and so much more, she added. I am honored and humbled to be able to continue serving on this council  the most diverse in Ann Arbors history.

This was Savabieasfahanis third unsuccessful run for council in recent years. She also lost to Eyer in 2020.

Savabieasfahani, an environmental toxicologist and longtime anti-Israel activist, has pressed the city to do more on matters such as cleaning up the Gelman dioxane plume, reparations for Black residents, expanding public housing and taking a stand against U.S. military aid to Israel.

At center, Mozhgan Savabieasfahani, a 4th Ward candidate for Ann Arbor City Council, chats with fellow pro-Palestinian activists in the hallway outside a council meeting at city hall on April 15, 2024, after walking out on another anti-Israel speaker some have labeled a Holocaust denier. Savabieasfahani said she leaves the room when he speaks "because you can't fight racism with more racism." (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com)Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Eyer, a public relations consultant who specializes in promoting labor unions and social advocacy organizations, said on the campaign trail she first ran for council because voters were hungry for change. She and her colleagues are now leading Ann Arbor forward on a number of issues and theres still more work to do, she said.

Im ready to keep working hard for all residents of Ward 4 and Ann Arbor, she said.

With Eyers win Tuesday, pending any unforeseen surprises in November, this will mark the third city election in a row in which the mayors camp won all council seats.

Write-in candidates, though a statistical long shot, still have until Oct. 25 to file to run in the Nov. 5 election.

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HUDSONVILLE, MI -- Love or hate it, Ottawa Impact and the politics surrounding the far-right platform proved a hot topic for many voters leaving polls in Hudsonville.

Voters in the Ottawa County community of about 7,700 people, along with three nearby townships, were deciding a pivotal race Tuesday that could help shape the look of county government for years.

Related: Showdown nears in Ottawa County as far-right and moderate Republicans battle for votes

For some who talked with MLive/The Grand Rapids Press outside voting precincts, it boiled down to supporting Ottawa Impacts ultra-conservative agenda or going with a more moderate course.

The race in question pits Ottawa Impact founder Joe Moss against Hudsonville Mayor Mark Northrup. The two Republicans were vying for the county boards District 5 seat, covering Hudsonville, Blendon Township, Jamestown Township, and Zeeland Township Precinct 4.

Voters seemed split on the two candidates and Ottawa Impact as well.

Related: Leader of Ottawa Impact faces Hudsonville mayor in key Ottawa County commission race

Rich Vanhill cast his ballot at Hudsonville Congregational United Church of Christ and said he voted for Northrup.

I think its time for a change, he said. I think theres too man big dollars and a lot of money was spent under (Moss) leadership. I like some of his policies and everything, but I think we need a change because theres been a lot of money going out.

Vanhill noted the several lawsuits filed against the county board since Moss and a slate of eight new board members -- all affiliated with Ottawa Impact -- took office in January 2023.

Ottawa County, one of the states fastest-growing counties, has long been a conservative stronghold, seeing Republicans comprise its governing board almost entirely. But state and county pandemic restrictions and mask mandates, as well as culture war issues, helped fuel the new, far-right group of candidates from Ottawa Impact that clobbered their more centrist Republican incumbent rivals in the August 2022 primaries.

Voters, as an overall group, have an opportunity Tuesday to continue Ottawa Impacts leadership of county government or chart a different course.

Shannon Prior also voted at the church and she supports Moss. She likes Moss goal of giving more rights to parents, particularly as it relates to forgoing vaccinations.

Im big on parental rights. Im a mom of four, she said. Im pro-Constitution, pro-freedom, pro-America.

Prior likes the Ottawa Impact agenda.

I think parents making decisions for their families is huge, she said. Ive always been a Republican, but Im probably more conservative now.

Moss in 2022 campaigned on his opposition to the COVID restrictions ordered by Gov. Whitmer during the pandemic. He deemed the school mask mandate as governmental overreach.

For other voters, the controversies that embroiled the county board in the last two years were paramount to their decision Tuesday.

Related: Lawsuits, childhood innocence, $4M settlement talks: How far-right board shook up Ottawa County

Donald Bessey, 71, said he voted for Northrup and doesnt like the tendencies by Ottawa Impact commissioners to get involved in cultural or society issues.

The board passed resolutions to protect childhood innocence, supporting pro-life measures and to become a constitutional county, among others.

I dont like their entire ideology, Bessey said of Ottawa Impact. I think, first of all, its so divisive in the county and also I think it is a tremendous waste of time for county commissioners to try to involve themselves in issues that have nothing to do with the county.

Theyre trying to play like theyre senators of the United States, he said.

Bessey said the board should be focused on more traditional government issues.

Do you enforce the dog ordinances, do you collect the taxes and do you know basic mathematics, so you dont waste money, and they apparently dont, he said.

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OTTAWA COUNTY, MI -- Critics say change is coming.

To one of the far-right Ottawa Impact groups opponents, the change is coming in 148 days to be more precise.

Voters in Ottawa County called for an end to the often-controversial style of government practiced by the current county boards majority that is tied to a highly conservative political platform.

The Tuesday, Aug. 6 primary brought defeats to four candidates backed by the group known as Ottawa Impact, including two sitting Republican commissioners.

The combined results for the primary contests mean that a majority voting block held by Ottawa Impact will cease to exist in January. Tuesdays election results are vastly different than two years earlier when voters elected several Ottawa Impact commissioners, giving them a majority.

Related: Far-right Ottawa Impact group loses county board majority in Aug. 6 election

Together, we will end the frivolous lawsuits, the endless severances and settlements. We will focus on policies and services that benefit everyone! Commissioner Jacob Bonnema wrote in a statement he posted to Facebook.

Bonnema, who serves the Zeeland area, was elected to the county board in 2022 as an Ottawa Impact candidate, but in early 2023 broke from the group. He was not challenged in Tuesdays primary.

During the last two years, Ottawa County government has sometimes made local and national headlines for controversial decisions and efforts. Among those were firing the county administrator during the 2023 organizational meeting, dissolving the diversity office and trying to fire the county health officer.

Some of the countys moves generated lawsuits, including those from the health officer and pastor who claimed religious discrimination for not being picked to give the boards invocation in a timely manner.

Related: Far-right groups control of Ottawa County at stake in election. We talked to voters.

Tuesdays election brought Republican primary defeats to current District 1 Commissioner Gretchen Cosby and District 9 Commissioner Roger Belknap. Both were affiliated with Ottawa Impact.

At the same time, Ottawa Impact-endorsed District 7 candidate Rachel Atwood lost to John Teeples, who billed himself as more moderate. In District 10, Ottawa Impact-linked candidate Jason Koert lost to Josh Brugger. And in District 2, former Commissioner Lucy Ebel, also tied to Ottawa Impact, lost to Jordan Jorritsma.

The Ottawa Impact candidates who won were current Ottawa County Board Chair Joe Moss in District 5, Commissioner Allison Miedema in District 11, board Vice Chair Sylvia Rhodea in District 8 and Commissioner Kendra Wenzel in District 6.

If no Ottawa Impact-affiliated commissioners lose in November to Democrats, the political platform will control four of the 11 seats on the county board.

Jim Barry, who defeated Cosby, viewed the primary as a referendum on OI and the way they were doing business.

He thinks voters wanted something different.

They just wanted a different tone and some process in how county government is done, he said. I think (the primary) was a pretty loud statement.

Bonnema, in the Facebook post, said that traditional, conservative Republicans won in the countys Republican primary.

As a result of the peoples vote, you can expect Joe Moss will lose his gavel in 148 days, he said.

Current District 10 Commissioner Roger Bergman, who is not running for reelection, said hes hopeful the new county board in January can work together.

I think Joe (Moss) and Sylvia (Rhodea) have their viewpoints and theyre pretty solidly in that camp. Whether or not theyre going to get along and cooperate, well have to see, he said.

Related: Showdown nears in Ottawa County as far-right and moderate Republicans battle for votes

Ottawa County, one of the states fastest-growing counties, has long been a conservative stronghold, seeing Republicans comprise its governing board almost entirely. But state and county pandemic restrictions and mask mandates, as well as culture war issues, helped fuel the new, far-right group of candidates from Ottawa Impact that clobbered their more centrist Republican incumbent rivals in the August 2022 primaries.

Doug Koopman, a professor emeritus in the Calvin University politics and economics department, said the reasons voters favored certain Ottawa Impact candidates and not others can come down to name identification, familiarity and personal evaluations by voters.

Koopman thinks that, after January, this is likely to be less day-to-day news coverage of Ottawa County government.

I do think there will be less drama, for sure, he said.

But one of the big questions, Koopman said, is whether the current Ottawa Impact majority will make any controversial decisions between now and January.

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GRAYLING, MI  A local fight over a township fire department may have led to possible illegal election activity in an Up North town.

Michigan state election officials reported a possible voter intimidation incident at a polling location at Crawford Countys Beaver Creek Township Hall. A township election official said it may have been prompted by local politics.

A ground team member with the Michigan Department of State reportedly witnessed a group of electioneers partially blocking an entrance to the polling place and approaching vehicles aggressively with signs as they pulled into the parking lot, the Secretary of States office said.

Authorities said it is illegal to engage in electioneering within 100 feet of a polling place, which applies to candidates, people with campaign materials and those electioneering.

Every voter has the right to cast their ballot free of intimidation, and without being solicited for votes when within the 100-foot boundary, according to a statement released by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Bensons office.

Michigan State Police responded to the incident, but officials could not immediately be reached Tuesday night for comment.

MLive was able to briefly reach Beaver Creek Township Clerk Sandy Beaudet by telephone. She said the incident was connected to a group of longtime residents who want to take over the township and restore a former township fire chief who was previously fired.

Beaudet could not be reached for additional comment later Tuesday evening.

Township meeting minutes posted online show former fire chief Doug Bourgeois was terminated without cause on Sept. 13 last year. He was granted 90 days of salary as severance.

That firing came after reports of township equipment being used for personal reasons, plus multiple firefighters quitting, and more who threatened to do the same, according to comments made by Supervisor Dan Bonamie and documented in official meeting minutes.

Records also show multiple people made public comments during that same meeting, encouraging the board to reinstate Bourgeois, of rural Roscommon.

Bourgeois could not be reached for comment Tuesday night.

An interim fire chief was hired a week later on Sept. 20, when the board also ordered a third-party investigation of fire department acts of malfeasance.

Meanwhile, every township seat was contested in Tuesdays Republican primary election  save for the clerks post which had no candidates at all, even on the Democratic ticket.

Final vote tallies for Beaver Creek Township races were not yet totaled by 9:30 p.m. Tuesday.
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, MI -- St. Joseph County, in Southwest Michigan, will have a new county prosecutor and sheriff in 2025, voters determined in the Aug. 6 primary election.

Fired assistant prosecutor Deborah Davis beat her former boss and one other challenger in the prosecutors race. In the sheriffs race, newcomer Chad Spence beat out the undersheriff and three others.

Because no Democrats filed to run for either office, Davis and Spence will win in November, barring any write-in campaigns.

The five candidates for sheriff were Dennis Allen, Undersheriff Jason Bingaman, Joe Bingaman, Gordon L. Evilsizor and Spence.

Current Sheriff Mark Lillywhite, elected in 2020, chose not to pursue a second term after he pleaded guilty to drunk driving after a crash in 2023. St. Joseph County Commissioners voted in August 2023 to ask Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to remove Lillywhite from office, but she hasnt made a ruling.

Spence earned 5,549 votes on Tuesday, accounting for 49.29% of votes cast. Jason Bingaman, the undersheriff, was the closest challenger with 30% of the vote.

Spence, 50, of Three Rivers said he went to Mendon High School and received a bachelors in criminal justice from Ferris State University. He began working at the St. Joseph County Sheriffs Office office after college and had different roles, including detective sergeant, and retired there after 25 years.

Chad Spence(Courtesy photo)

In the race for the prosecutors office, incumbent Prosecutor David Marvin ran for reelection, facing former prosecutor John McDonough and Davis.

All three candidates have a history with the role. Davis was fired from the prosecutors office earlier this year amid allegations of making false statements in court, which she denies. Marvin defeated McDonough in the prosecutors race in 2020.

Deborah Davis(Courtesy photo)

Davis won the primary with 6,061 votes (56%), unofficial tallies show. Marvin was next closest with 31% of the votes.

Davis, an attorney, was raised in Centreville and attended Centreville Public Schools from kindergarten through graduation in 1999. She attended Western Michigan University, graduating with a bachelors in communication with a minor in psychology in 2003, she said, and attended Thomas M. Cooley Law School, graduating in May 2007. She passed the bar and was sworn in as a fully licensed attorney in 2007.

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PORTAGE, MI -- Voters chose Matt Longjohn to represent the Democratic Party in the Nov. 5 election for Michigans 40th House District.

Longjohn topped Lisa Brayton  a former Republican who was running as a Democrat  in the Tuesday, Aug. 6, primary.

Longjohn will run against Republican Kelly Sackett, who ran unopposed in the primary. The winner will earn a two-year term in the state legislature.

District 40 includes the city of Portage and parts of Texas Township and Oshtemo Township.

According to unofficial totals, Longjohn won with 7,764 votes (70.4%) compared to Braytons 3,264 votes (29.6%).

RELATED: Live election results for Kalamazoo-area races, Aug. 6, 2024

Brayton, 53, ran as a Republican for the Kalamazoo County Commission in 2020 before she was elected to a four-year term on the Portage City Council in 2021. She was disqualified from the citys mayoral race in 2023 due to a residency issue.

Longjohn, also 53, teaches medical students at WMed and runs his own health systems consulting business. He also serves on the Portage Planning Commission. He ran against Republican Fred Upton for a U.S. House seat in 2018, losing in the general election. He faced criticism for using the title M.D. in campaign materials.

Rep. Christine Morse, D-Texas Township, has held the 40th District seat since 2023. She first took office in 2021, prior to redistricting.

Instead of pursuing another term, Morse is ran for a new judgeship in the 9th Circuit Court, leaving her seat open. In that race, she earned enough votes Tuesday to advance to the general election.

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GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Countywide ballot proposals on Tuesdays Aug. 6 primary ballot were fairing well with results incomplete as of 2 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 7.

With 108 or 156 precincts reporting, most voters had approved a proposed $3 per-line telephone surcharge to support the county 911 system, renewal of 0.68-mill property tax for senior citizen services, and the reauthorization of a 1.2-mill property tax for the Mass Transportation Authority to support Your Ride services.

The county Board of Commissioners voted in May to add the 911 surcharge to the primary ballot, asking to increase the rate from $1.86 per line to $3, the maximum allowed by state law.

The ballot proposal was supported by 59% of voters in the 108 precincts that had been counted as of early Wednesday.

The MTA millage had the support of 58% of those same voters and the senior millage renewal received support from 67% of those casting ballots in the precincts that had been counted.

Commissioners have said they expect the higher 911 fee, if ultimately approved by voters, to make a significant dent in the cost of communication equipment used by firefighters and police officers in the county as well as maintaining funding for the county 9-1-1 Dispatch Authority.

The senior services millage request would extend the current property tax that supports programs and services for those 60 or older and provides funding for each of the 16 senior citizen centers in the county.

The MTA request asked voters to roll back an existing millage that has been reduced to 1.209 mills to its original amount of 1.225 mills for five years, starting in 2025.

Money generated by the MTA millage -- one of two that all county property owners pay -- supports Your Ride and other related services for older residents, persons with disabilities, and the disadvantaged.

Flint voters also pay a separate millage for general MTA operations.

In other local ballot proposals, Flint Township voters renewed millages for fire protection equipment and roads, according to unofficial results from the county.

In Montrose Township, voters rejected an emergency vehicle millage, according to unofficial results, but approved a fire equipment millage renewal and a fire operating millage renewal.

Results for the Atlas Township pathways millage showed it was narrowly turned down by voters, while voters in Swartz Creek approved a fire department millage.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  State Rep. Carol Glanville, D-Walker, will face Republican challenger John Wetzel in the November election for the 84th District state House seat, which encompasses a portion of Grand Rapids as well as Walker and Grandville.

Glanville, the incumbent who was first elected to represent the area in 2022, trounced challenger Justin Rackham 93% to 7% in the Democratic primary.

Meanwhile, in the Republican primary, Wetzel handily defeated fellow GOP candidate Ben June 86% to 14%.

Glanville is a former member of the Walker City Commission, and has worked in the education and nonprofit sectors. In May 2022, she won a special election to fill what was then the state Houses 74th District.

She was the first Democrat to win the seat in nearly three decades, defeating controversial Republican Robert Regan, who drew widespread scrutiny for comparing accepting the 2020 presidential election results with enjoying unavoidable rape.

Later that year, in November, she won the redrawn 84th District state House seat.

In November, she will face Wetzel, the owner of Pure POS, Inc., a company that creates point-of-sale systems (similar to a cash register) for the restaurant and hospitality industry. He received a bachelors degree in business and information systems from Grand Valley State University.

In an online voter guide, Wetzel said he was running for the seat because the policy and bills being proposed in Lansing are not representing what the Michigan Citizens are needing.

The budget is now approaching $89 Billion, with no end in sight and very little accountability in how our tax dollars are being spent, he wrote. Lansing needs someone here in Grandville, Walker, and the West Side that understands the citizens needs, and can actually make a difference.

In her voter guide response, Glanville highlighted her work in the Legislature, including what she described as historic investments in education, enacting commons sense gun legislation, and championing millions in community investment.

Im currently working on creating affordable pathways for career development from high school to post-secondary opportunities, online data privacy for minors, access to voting for overseas military families, and more, she wrote. Im passionate about partnering with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to enhance quality of life in Grand Rapids and beyond.

More on MLive:

Rogers, Slotkin to face off in November in Michigan U.S. Senate race

Kent County lodging tax increase leading in polls late Tuesday

6 races to watch in the Aug. 6 West Michigan primary election

Far-right groups control of Ottawa County at stake in election. We talked to voters.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  East Grand Rapids attorney Paul Hudson on Tuesday bested a fellow Republican for a shot at the 3rd Congressional District seat this fall.

Hudson beat Grand Haven financial advisor Michael Markey Jr. during the Aug. 6 Republican primary by 39,088 votes to 32,447, or 55% to 45%, according to the unofficial results from the Secretary of State.

The win means Hudson will move on to the November general election where he will face incumbent U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, for the 3rd Congressional District seat.

Scholten on Tuesday defended her seat in the Democratic primary against real estate agent Salim Al-Shatel.

Related: Scholten wins Democratic nomination for Michigans 3rd Congressional District

The congressional district encompasses portions of Kent, Muskegon and Ottawa counties, including the cities of Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kentwood, Grand Haven and Muskegon.

Scholten, an immigration attorney who worked in the U.S. Department of Justice during President Barack Obamas administration, is the first Democrat to represent Grand Rapids in Congress since 1977.

She won the seat in 2022 by 13 points over Republican John Gibbs, a former Trump administration official.

Federal campaign finance filings showed a number of big-name West Michigan Republican donors and business leaders coalescing around Hudson instead of Markey in the months leading up to the primary.

As of July 17, Scholten had $2,422,100 in cash on hand going into the primary. Hudson had $306,035 in cash on hand going into the primary.
SHELBY TWP, MI  In J.D. Vances first public appearance following Tim Walzs selection as the Democratic nominee for Vice President, he accused Walz of embellishing parts of his military career.

What bothers me about Tim Walz is the stolen valor garbage, said Vance, the Republican nominee for vice president, while speaking at a private event Wednesday, Aug. 7, at the Shelby Township Police Department. Dont pretend to be something that youre not.

Vance condemned Walz for retiring from his 24-year career in the National Guard before his battalion was deployed to Iraq in the Iraq War.

Thomas Behrends, the 63-year-old veteran who allegedly replaced Walz in his battalion, called Walz a coward in a New York Post exclusive in August.

When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him  a fact that hes been criticized for aggressively by people hes served with, Vance said.

Vance served in the United States Marine Corps from 2003 to 2007. Walz served in the National Guard for 24 years. After Walz retired, he began his career in politics.

Related: JD Vance touts tough-on-crime platform in second Michigan campaign stop

Vance, 40, was in his early 20s when he was deployed to Iraq as a combat correspondent in 2005. Walz, who is 60, was in his early 40s at the same time.

Vance also called Walz a crazy liberal from the far left wing that allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis during the George Floyd protests of 2020.

What Kamala Harris is telling all of us by selecting Tim Walz is that she bends the knee to the far left of the Democratic Party, Vance said.

Vance said the timing of Walzs retirement was shameful. He also took offense to being framed by Democrats as an elite with an Ivy League education.

I grew up in a poor family. The fact that Tim Walz wants to turn it into a bad thing  that I actually worked myself through college, through law school and made something of myself  to me, thats the American dream, Vance said.

A Vice Presidential debate hasnt been scheduled between the two, but Walz invited the debate at a rally with Kamala Harris in Philadelphia after he was selected.

Vance, in his second Michigan campaign stop, spoke to reporters at a private event in front of the Shelby Township Police Department.

The Biden administrations immigration policies are threatening safety in small communities like Shelby Township, Vance said.

Walz is expected to join Harris tonight for a campaign stop at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.
SHELBY TWP, MI  Republican Vice Presidential Candidate J.D. Vance sold a tough-on-crime message aimed at stopping illegal immigrants from entering the country while addressing reporters in his second visit to Michigan.

The U.S. Senator from Ohio made a campaign stop on Wednesday, Aug. 7, just hours before Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, and running mate Tim Walz are scheduled to host a rally in Detroit.

Speaking on the steps of the Shelby Township Police Department during a private event, Vance delivered a similar message to the one he shared in Grand Rapids  that Vice President Kamala Harris has lost control of the U.S. border.

What I realized in talking to some of these police officers, especially for the folks who are watching on TV, is the failure to protect our communities is a law and policy choice, Vance said.

The decision to suspend deportations and open up the southern border is having affects throughout the country in places like Shelby Township, Vance said.

When President Trump was in office, we deported illegal aliens. ... We were building the border wall, which made it harder for illegal aliens to come here in the first place. ... We did not grant mass immunity, which allowed illegal aliens to come into our communities, Vance said.

Shelby Township Police Chief Robert Shelide, who was the first to speak at Wednesdays campaign stop, said officers have dealt with three incidents involving criminals who have entered our country illegally in the last two months.

Vance said on day one of Trumps second term, if elected, he would implement deportations, finish construction of the border wall and stop amnesty for immigrants that enter the country illegally.

Id ask you to vote for a candidate who wants to support our police officers, not make their lives harder, Vance said. Id ask you to support a candidate who wants to make it easier to deport illegal aliens and not harder. Id ask you to support the candidate who has shown he can deliver security in our streets; we just have to give him the opportunity to govern.

Vance argued that taking a harder stance on immigration would benefit those who entered the country legally.

The Illegal immigration program  it very often falls hardest on legal immigrants more than anybody else, Vance said. My message is our anti-illegal immigration platform is actually going to make your life better. Its going to make your wages go up. Its going to make public safety and communities better.

Repeatedly calling Harris a border czar, Vance argued that the current administrations policies have made communities less prosperous and less safe.

Vance spoke for a few minutes before taking several questions from the media.

Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido and Police Officers Association of Michigan President James Tignanelli also spoke.

Tignanelli, who represents police officers across Michigan, said the best efforts of law enforcement are failing. He referred to the three officers that have been shot and killed while on duty in Michigan.

Bradley Reckling, an Oakland County deputy, was shot and killed on June 22. William Butler, a Hillsdale County Sheriffs deputy, died on June 27. Melvindale Police Officer Mohamed Said, 23, was shot and killed in the line of duty on July 21.

We have a great candidate for president (in Donald Trump), Tignanelli said. We know that because he served as president for four years. We were more prosperous and safer when he was here.

Tignanelli said that while each candidate claims allegiance to law enforcement, the Police Officers Association of Michigan is endorsing the Trump-Vance ticket.

Vance last appeared in Michigan shortly after he was selected as Donald Trumps running mate on July 20.

Alyssa Bradley, Harris for President 2024 Michigan Communications Director, issued the following statement ahead of Vances event.

JD Vance is headed to Michigan to try to sell Trumps extreme Project 2025 agenda that would ban abortion nationwide, give handouts to billionaires, and raise taxes on working familiesbut Michiganders arent buying what Buckeye JD Vance is selling, Bradley wrote. The more they learn about him and his dark vision to drag our country backwards, the more theyre showing up to support Vice President Harris, the only candidate in this race who is fighting for Michiganders and their freedoms.

Shelby Township voters favored Trump over President Joe Biden in the 2020 election by nearly 40,000 votes.
DETROIT, MI  Vice President Kamala Harris, her freshly-announced running mate and a lineup of familiar Michigan political figures will rally supporters at Detroit Metropolitan Airport during her Wednesday, Aug. 7, Michigan visit.

Harris will address the crowd at 7 p.m. during an outdoor event at one of the airports hangars, campaign officials said.

While the date of the Democrats 2024 presidential nominees visit was released last week, most details were kept under wraps until now.

Among the latest updates provided by the Harris camp: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, co-chair of the vice presidents campaign, will deliver remarks before Harris takes the stage.

Other planned speakers include a lineup of Democrats from the state as well as a top labor union leader.

U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow; U.S. House Reps. Shri Thanedar, Hillary Scholten, Haley Stevens, Dan Kildee, Elissa Slotkin, and Debbie Dingell; Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist; United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain; Michigan Democratic Party Chair Lavora Barnes; Wayne County Executive Warren Evans; and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan will deliver remarks, officials said.

Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor Harris named as her running mate one day earlier, will accompany the presidential hopeful Wednesday too.

Harris will make her first appearance in Michigan as a presidential candidate Wednesday. She campaigned as a vice presidential incumbent in Kalamazoo on July 17, five days before Biden bowed out in her favor.

Wednesday will represent the fifth visit to Michigan this year for Harris.

The Detroit rally will serve as Walzs second day as the vice presidential hopeful on the Harris ticket. The duo launched his entry in the campaign Tuesday, Aug. 6, during a rally at Temple University in Philadelphia.

The Harris campaign plans to arrive in Michigan after a rally scheduled earlier in the day, about 600 miles away, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Wednesdays double-header represents the second day of a 5-day campaign set in states considered key to winning the White House in November. After Detroit, they will visit Savannah and Phoenix on Friday, Aug. 9; and Las Vegas on Saturday, Aug. 10.

A planned North Carolina stop was canceled because of weather conditions from Tropical Storm Debby.

J.D. Vance, the running mate of Republican Donald Trump, announced plans to campaign in the same states and same days as Harris this week.

In Michigan on Wednesday, Vance will deliver remarks at 10 a.m. at the Shelby Township Police Department in Macomb County, about 50 miles north of where Harris plans to address the Detroit crowd 9 hours later.

The dueling campaigns will stop in Michigan at the same time as polls show Harris reclaiming support Biden appeared to lose to Trump in the weeks after a shaky debate performance from the president.

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 in Michigan. The numbers included data from four polls, collected as late as July 28.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI -- Jordan Jorritsma has won the Republican primary battle for the District 2 seat on the Ottawa County Board.

The race featured former Ottawa County Commissioner Luce Ebel, who was recalled in a May election, against newcomer Jordan Jorritsma.

Jorritsma got 2,094 votes (61%) while Ebel got 1,338 votes (39%), according to unofficial Ottawa County election results, with nine of nine precincts fully reporting as of 12:17 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7. Election results are unofficial until they are certified by the Board of Canvassers following the election.

Ebel was recalled after a Park Township resident in July 2023 submitted a petition against her. The petition cited Ebels February, 2023 vote to change a 2022 board resolution that appointed Adeline Hambley as Ottawa County Health officer. Other Ottawa Impact county commissioners also voted for the change but were not targeted for recall.

She lost the May election to current Commissioner Chris Kleinjans, a Democrat.

Kleinjans will be the Democratic candidate for the seat in the November election.

District 2 covers Holland Charter Township precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8 and11 and Park Township precinct 4.

Ebel was aligned with the ultra-conservative platform Ottawa Impact, whose members hold a majority on the Ottawa County Board.

Jorritsma works as a legislative director for state Rep. Curt VanderWall in District 102. He serves on the Ottawa County Land Bank Authority.

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UPDATE 7:20 a.m.: 100% of precincts are reporting. Winners are highlighted in bold.

KALAMAZOO, MI -- Kalamazoo-area residents voted on a variety of races and proposals in the Tuesday, Aug. 6, primary election.

In partisan races, one candidate from each party advances to the Nov. 5 election.

Below is a look at every contested race and proposal that appeared on ballots in Kalamazoo County, depending on where voters live.

Once all precincts have reported, the winning candidates will be bolded.

(Click the links in each race for more details.)

National/state races

U.S. Senate:

The top vote-getting Republican in this race will face Democrat Jessica Swartz in the Nov. 5 election.

The winner will go against Republican Kelly Sackett in November for the state legislature seat.

The top vote-getter on Aug. 6 will face incumbent Democrat Julie Rogers and Libertarian Rafael Wolf.

The winner will face Democrat Austin Marsman in the Nov. 5 general election.

Local races

(105 of 105 precincts reporting)

James J. Charon (R): 11,288 (68.3%)

Sabrina Pritchett-Evans (R): 5,189 (31.4%)

The winner will face incumbent Democrat Richard Fuller in the Nov. 5 election.

(105 of 105 precincts reporting)

Emily Crawford (R): 5,902 (39.3%)

Kathleen Olmsted (R): 9,037 (60.2%)

The winner will face incumbent Democrat Meredith Place in the Nov. 5 election.

(105 of 105 precincts reporting)

Pamela Herbert (R): 4,277 (25.1%)

Dale Shugars (R): 12,696 (74.5%)

The winner will face incumbent Democrat Thomas Whitener in the Nov. 5 election.

(9 of 9 precincts reporting)

Gary Mitchell (R): 454 (59.7%)

Andrew Smith (R): 301 (39.6%)

The winner will face incumbent Democratic Commissioner Jen Strebs in the November general election.

(10 of 10 precincts reporting)

Sarah Joshi (D): 1,441 (43.9%)

Abby Wheeler (D, incumbent): 1,838 (56.0%)

The winner will face Republican candidate Jason Mikkelborg for a four-year term on the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners.

(1 of 1 precincts reporting)

Murat Bates (R): 42 (14.1%)

Sarah DeBoer (R): 255 (85.9%)

The winner of the Aug. 6 primary is set to run unopposed on the Nov. 5 ballot.

(7 of 7 precincts reporting)

Christopher Daniels (R): 696 (47.4%)

Benjamin Martin (R): 767 (52.2%)

Mark Mort (D): 331 (24.8%)

Randy Thompson (D, incumbent): 998 (74.7%)

The top vote-getters from each party will face each other in the Nov. 5 General Election.

(7 of 7 precincts reporting)

Sandra Bloomfield (R): 873 (57.9%)

Clyde Bub Sherwood (R, incumbent): 632 (41.9%)

The top vote-getter will go on to face Democratic candidate Roger Poe in November.

(4 of 4 precincts reporting)

Diane Bushouse (R): 254 (21.2%)

Jeff Sorensen (R, incumbent): 618 (51.7%)

Daniel Michael Wierckz (R): 317 (26.5%)

The winner will run against Democrat Jim Frederick in November.

(4 of 4 precincts reporting)

Holden Deaton (R): 547 (14.9%)

Marc Rowlson (R): 580 (15.8%)

Adam Tuinstra (R, incumbent): 665 (18.1%)

Fred Vlietstra (R, incumbent): 749 (20.4%)

Dan Williams (R, incumbent): 503 (13.7%)

Raymond Wilson (R): 602 (16.4%)

The top four vote-getters in the Republican primary will run against Democratic candidate Cristine Wiles.

(10 of 10 precincts reporting)

David Combs (D): 1,542 (64.1%)

Don Martin (D, incumbent): 850 (35.4%)

The top vote-getter is set to run unopposed in November for a four-year term.

(10 of 10 precincts reporting)

Dylan Grosser (D): 617 (25.9%)

Sherine Miller (D, incumbent): 1,755 (73.7%)

The top vote-getter will run unopposed on the Nov. 5 ballot.

(10 of 10 precincts reporting)

Ashley Glass (D, incumbent): 1,826 (21.7%)

Colleen Leonard (D): 1,576 (18.7%)

Steven Leuty (D, incumbent): 1,035 (12.3%)

Clara Robinson (D, incumbent): 1,802 (21.4%)

Michael Seals (D): 1,072 (12.7%)

Craig Sherwood (D): 1,090 (12.9%)

The top four vote-getters will run against four Republican candidates in the November election.

(10 of 10 precincts reporting)

Michael Chapman (D, incumbent): 1,763 (20.9%)

Kristin Cole (D, incumbent): 2,132 (25.3%)

Zak Ford (D, incumbent): 1,755 (20.8%)

Tom Graham (D): 1,010 (12.0%)

Neil Sikora (D, incumbent): 1,781 (21.1%)

Republicans Andrea Lundgren and Rob Viland were unopposed on Aug. 6 and appear on the Nov. 5 ballot.

Three Republicans are are running as write-in candidates for Richland Township Clerk. These results wont be available until later, since theyre all write-in candidates.

Paul Foust (R)

Natalie Ramer (R)

Arthur White Jr. (R)

The top vote-getter will run unopposed on the Nov. 5 ballot.

(2 of 2 precincts reporting)

Kerry Lynn Elieff (R): 300 (34.7%)

Christina Hutchings (R, incumbent): 564 (65.2%)

The winner of the primary will run unopposed in November, barring a write-in candidacy.

(2 of 2 precincts reporting)

Michael Bekes (R, incumbent): 333 (11.9%)

Frank Guarisco (R): 313 (11.2%)

Lynn M. Harmon (R, incumbent): 435 (15.5%)

Helen Lang (R): 298 (10.6%)

Diana Langshaw (R, incumbent): 473 (16.9%)

Gary E. Moore (R): 235 (8.4%)

Jerry Pawlowicz (R): 130 (4.6%)

Mike Sulka (R, incumbent): 265 (9.5%)

Todd White (R): 320 (11.4%)

The top four vote-getters will run unopposed on Nov. 5.

Schoolcraft Township Supervisor :

(4 of 4 precincts reporting)

Toni Elgersma-Rafferty (R): 403 (43.0%)

Donald Ulsh (R): 533 (56.9%)

Since no Democrats are running for the role, the top-vote getter is set to run unopposed in November.

(4 of 4 precincts reporting)

Eska Brown (R): 529 (57.8%)

Joanne Wiley (R): 384 (42.0%)

If there arent any write-in candidates in August or November, the winner of the August primary will win the race for clerk.

(6 of 6 precincts reporting)

Donald Boven (R, incumbent): 825 (19.1%)

Lisa Koop (R): 679 (15.7%)

Brian Kovacik (R): 824 (19.1%)

Fred Krymis (R): 577 (13.4%)

Tamara Mitchell (R): 636 (14.7%)

Michelle ONeill (R, incumbent): 773 (17.9%)

The four winners will run against Democrats Barb Hammon and Dennis Smith in November.

(105 of 105 precincts reporting)

Angelique Camfield: 6,766 (18.9%)

Christine Morse: 19,148 (53.3%)

Mariko Willis: 9,892 (27.5%)

The top two vote-getters will earn a spot on the Nov. 5 ballot. The winner in November earns an eight-year term.

Local proposals

(105 of 105 precincts reporting)

Kalamazoo County voters will decide whether to keep paying a tax to support seniors during the Tuesday, Aug. 6 election.

Yes: 34,193 (77.6%)

No: 9,882 (22.4%)

(1 of 1 precincts reporting)

Voters in Climax Township will be asked to renew a tax to support the local fire department, which was previously approved by voters in 2014.

Yes: 375 (74.1%)

No: 131 (25.9%)

(2 of 2 precincts reporting)

Ross Township voters will decide whether to continue to fund firefighting services in the township.

The proposed millage is for 1 mill for the next five years.

Yes: 990 (74.0%)

No: 348 (26.0%)

(38 of 38 precincts reporting)

Voters who live in the Van Buren Intermediate Schools territory considered a special education millage renewal proposal. The 0.8955-mill proposal would raise $4.5 million in its first year.

Yes: 9,796 (67.5%)

No: 4,714 (32.5%)

(25 of 25 precincts reporting)

Portage Public Schools asked voters to renew a millage that enables the district to make necessary repairs to buildings without having to borrow money.

Yes: 7,537 (67.8%)

No: 3,580 (32.2%)

(6 of 6 precincts reporting)

If approved, the millage would continue at its current rate of 0.58 mills in perpetuity.

Yes: 1,871 (60.8%)

No: 1,205 (39.2%)

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GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Republican Paul Junge will face Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet in the November election to replace Dan Kildee in Congress, according to projections by The Associated Press.

Junge and McDonald Rivet each outperformed two primary opponents in the primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 6, winning the right to represent their parties in the November general election, according to the projection based on initial unofficial returns.

Junge is a former prosecutor who worked in the Trump administration at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. McDonald Rivet is a state senator from Bay City who previously served as executive director of the Michigan Head Start Association.

The AP reported as of 12:49 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 7, that Junge had won nearly three of every four GOP votes cast with 43% of the vote in. McDonald Rivet had won nearly 55% of the vote as of the same time with 46% of the vote in.

Junge was competing with Republicans Mary Draves and Anthony J. Hudson. McDonald Rivet was running against Democrats Matt Collier and Pamela Pugh.

Related: Midlands Mary Draves concedes as AP calls Republican primary for Junge

Kildee, a Flint Township Democrat, announced late last year that he wouldnt seek re-election, clearing the way for other candidates to compete in whats expected to be a fiercely competitive general election.

The congressman was diagnosed in 2023 with squamous cell carcinoma, a serious but curable form of cancer.

Also: Kildee wont seek re-election to Congress, says cancer gave him new perspective

After surgery to remove a small tumor in one of his tonsils, Kildee emerged cancer-free but said he had a new perspective on his priorities moving forward.

This years election marks the first time since 1962 that there wont be a member of the Kildee family running for Congress in the Flint area.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI -- Longtime veteran sheriffs employee Eric DeBoer won the Aug. 6 primary race to become the next Ottawa County Sheriff.

DeBoer, the current undersheriff, squared off against retired Riverside County (California) Sheriffs Capt. Jon Anderson, the current Ottawa County interim administrator. Both ran as Republicans. DeBoer won by a vote of 39,939 (60.1%) to 26,498 (39.9%).

Related: Recruiting new deputies among top issues for Ottawa County sheriff candidates

There was Democratic challenger to face in November, resulting in his victory.

The position for sheriff opened when current Sheriff Steve Kempker announced he would retire at the end of 2024. He was endorsed by Kempker and other nearby county sheriffs.

DeBoer has worked for the Ottawa County Sheriffs Department for 25 years, starting as a reserve deputy. He was appointed undersheriff in January.

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OTTAWA COUNTY, MI -- Joe Moss has won a pivotal race for a seat on the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners.

The key matchup featured Ottawa County Board Chair Joe Moss, founder of the ultra-conservative political platform Ottawa Impact, running against Hudsonville Mayor Mark Northrup.

They battled for District 5, which includes Blendon Township, the City of Hudsonville, Jamestown Charter Township and Zeeland Charter Township Precinct 4.

Moss got 4,300 votes (57.1%) while Northrup got 3,236 votes (42.9%), according to unofficial Ottawa County election results posted at 11:56 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, with 10 of 10 precincts fully reporting. Election results are not official until theyre certified by the Board of Canvassers following the election.

Related: Leader of Ottawa Impact faces Hudsonville mayor in key Ottawa County commission race

The winner of the primary for the Republican slot now faces Democrat Jon Rabideau in the November election.

Northrup, in announcing his candidacy earlier this year, said he wanted to right the ship in Ottawa County and complained that Moss other county board members were wasting money because of various lawsuits, including three involving county employees or would-be county employees.

He said he hoped to bring good governance back to Ottawa County.

Moss was elected in 2022 with a slate of eight new commissioners affiliated with the Ottawa Impact group.

They made several controversial decisions throughout 2023, but particularly at the boards organizational meeting in January 2023 when they fired the then-administrator, dissolved the diversity office and tried to fire the county health officer.

The board also delved into several issues not traditional to county government, including passing resolutions to become a constitutional county and to protect childhood innocence.

During the election, Moss election Facebook page had a top banner that read Protect the Kids.

Both candidates raised considerable funds for their campaigns. Campaign finance records show Northrup raised more than $22,000 since January. Moss raised more than $15,000.

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OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  James Barry has won the primary race between two Republicans for the District 1 seat on the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners.

The race featured incumbent Commissioner Gretchen Cosby against Jim Barry.

Barry garnered 5,059 votes (63.2%), while Cosby got 2,951 votes (36.8%), according to unofficial Ottawa County election results posted at 12:17 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, with 11 of 11 precincts reporting. Election results are not final until the Board of Canvassers certify them following the election.

RELATED: Real estate broker challenging incumbent for District 1 Ottawa County commission seat

Cosby is affiliated with the ultra-conservative political platform Ottawa Impact, whose members gained a majority on the Ottawa County board after the 2022 election.

The majority faction made sweeping changes upon taking office in January 2023, including firing Administrator John Shay, dissolving the countys diversity office and trying to fire the county health officer.

Cosby is a former nursing professional, while Barry is a real estate broker and former financial adviser.

District 1 covers Port Sheldon and Olive townships, along with most of Park Township.

The Republican primary winner moves on to face Democrat Danielle Smith in the November general election.

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GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Incumbent U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, defended her seat Tuesday against a fellow Democrat in a landslide primary win.

Scholten beat real estate agent Salim Al-Shatel during the Aug. 6 Democratic primary by 62,235 votes to 6,406, or 91% to 9%, according to unofficial election results from the Secretary of State.

The win means Scholten, a first-term U.S. representative, will move on to the November general election to face either East Grand Rapids attorney Paul Hudson or Grand Haven financial advisor Michael Markey Jr.

As of 10:36 p.m., with 17% of votes counted, the two Republicans were running neck and neck, with Markey leading 50.8% to Hudsons 49.2%.

The congressional district encompasses portions of Kent, Muskegon and Ottawa counties, including the cities of Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kentwood, Grand Haven and Muskegon.

Scholten, an immigration attorney who worked in the U.S. Department of Justice during President Barack Obamas administration, is the first Democrat to represent Grand Rapids in Congress since 1977.

She won the seat in 2022 by 13 points over Republican John Gibbs, a former Trump administration official.

As of July 17, Scholten had $2,422,100 in cash on hand going into the primary. Hudson had $306,035 in cash on hand going into the primary.
ANN ARBOR, MI  Voters across Washtenaw County said both yes and no to various local ballot proposals in the primary election Tuesday, Aug. 6.

Three countywide tax proposals for roads and nonmotorized transportation, parks and conservation efforts all passed by large margins.

Several other proposals were on ballots in local communities, including two rejected by voters in Saline and Whitmore Lake.

More than 83,000 ballots were cast across the county, amounting to a 26% voter turnout.

Heres how the votes went on the 13 proposals.

County roads millage

A 0.5-mill county tax for roads, bike lanes and nonmotorized paths was renewed for another four years by a vote of 53,980 to 24,651, with nearly 69% saying yes.

The renewed tax is expected to raise about $11 million in the first year when levied in December.

This is your chance to impact our communitys infrastructure by keeping projects moving forward without interruption, the Washtenaw County Road Commission stated in a Facebook post ahead of the election, showing a map of projects across the county expected to be funded from 2025-2028.

County parks millage

A 0.25-mill county tax for parks and recreation was renewed for another 10 years by a vote of 54,192 to 23,398, a nearly 70% showing of support.

The renewed tax is expected to raise about $5.7 million annually when first levied in 2027.

County conservation millage

A 0.2-mill tax for the Washtenaw County Conservation District was renewed for another six years by a vote of 54,303 to 23,930, with over 69% saying yes.

The renewed tax is expected to raise about $450,000 annually when first levied in 2026.

The ballot proposal explained the tax funds programs to assist residents in the protection of surface and groundwater quality, increasing wildlife habitat, woodlot management, reforestation and tree planting, invasive species removal and soil erosion reduction, and providing conservation resources, education and assistance to residents, and strengthening the local food system by promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Saline city proposal

Saline voters were divided on a city charter amendment to change election requirements for city officials. The proposal failed with 50.3% saying no.

The amendment would have required people running for City Council or mayor or who would like to be appointed to boards or commissions to have one year of residency in Saline, rather than the current requirement of two years.

Bridgewater Township proposal

A nearly 0.5-mill tax to maintain contracted fire services was renewed for another four years with 65% of voters in support.

Saline Township proposal

A 1-mill tax for roads was renewed for another four years with 71% of voters saying yes.

Scio Township proposal

Over 67% of voters said yes to renewing a 0.36-mill tax for public transportation for another 10 years.

York Township proposal

Over 75% of voters supported renewing a 1.4-mill tax for police and fire services for another five years.

Webster Township proposals

A 0.47-mill tax for farmland and open space preservation was renewed for another 10 years with nearly 63% of voters saying yes, while a 0.82-mill tax for roads was renewed for another 10 years with 56% in support.

Manchester library proposal

The library districts nearly 1-mill tax was renewed for another 10 years with over 65% of voters saying yes.

Whitmore Lake schools proposal

Voters rejected a bond proposal that would have allowed Whitmore Lake Public Schools to borrow $53.5 million and levy an additional 2.55 mills in taxes to pay for updating aging infrastructure across the district.

In the Washtenaw County portion of the district in Northfield and Webster townships, over 60% of voters were opposed, with 1,145 saying no and 754 saying yes.

In the Livingston County portion of the district, 65% were opposed, with 334 saying no and 179 saying yes.

Stockbridge schools proposal

An operating millage renewal for Stockbridge Community Schools also was on the ballot in four counties, including Lyndon Township in Washtenaw County.

In Washtenaw County, 65% of voters said yes. In Livingston County, 63% said yes. In Jackson County, 53% said yes. And in Ingham County, 60% said yes.

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JACKSON COUNTY, MI  Jackson County voters made their voices heard Tuesday - and made history - in electing the countys top arbiter of law.

In a close race, with election results swaying back and forth throughout the night, Kelsey Guernsey defeated Republican challenger Jared Hopkins 8,975 to 6,991 in the Aug. 6 primary election.

Election results: Jackson County voters decide county, township races, jail millage on Aug. 6

As there are no challengers running on the Democratic side, Guernsey will move on unopposed to the Nov. 5 general election ballot, effectively securing her victory as Jackson Countys next prosecutor.

After the November election, Guernsey will become the first woman to become prosecutor in Jackson County.

Im not going to be in a hurry to change everything. Jerry Jarzynka has been the elective for the last 12 years for a reason, she said. Jackson County trusts him, they respect him, hes done a lot of really good things.

I am extremely grateful for everyone who supported me in getting to this spot. It was a late night waiting for everything to come in, but we did it and I couldnt be happier for everyone involved.

Guernsey was with family, friends and supporters at Shadys Tap Room in downtown Brooklyn on election night as the results came in.

I am comfortable in the campaign I ran. I am confident I did everything I was supposed to do, Guernsey said.

Jarzynka attended the event to support Guernsey, as he has been advocating for her to be his replacement since he announced in May he would not seek re-election.

Related: Prosecutor Jerry Jarzynka not running for re-election, retiring at end of term

Guernsey said she was grateful to those who rallied around her. She said she was grateful to see all the signs supporting her around the county. In office, shes looking forward to continuing the work Jarzynka did, she said.

Guernsey, a mother and lifelong Jackson County resident, has served as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Jackson for more than a decade, prosecuting violent offenders as a member of the violent crimes task force.

Im proud to have worked with my allies in law enforcement to prosecute countless cases and secure guilty verdicts against murderers, pedophiles, rapists and predators, Guernsey said prior to the election.

Following certification of the November election results, Guernsey will officially take over the office in January.

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Tuesday morning, a rotating thunderstorm in southern Michigan prompted several Tornado Warnings to be issued by the National Weather Service. One unique thing about these warnings was the time at which they were issued.

*Expired* tornado warning issued during the 8am hour was the first on record during that time for the Grand Rapids National Weather Service office.NOAA

Yesterday, the first Tornado Warning by the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids was issued at 7:38 a.m. for Van Buren County. The second Tornado Warning was issued at 8:10 a.m. for Kalamazoo County.
Commentary

By Kris Sims

Albertas energy regulator recently warned people to stop using kitchen appliances because the electricity grid was at risk of blacking out.

Albertans were told to stop cooking on stoves and washing clothes in warm water.

You know, modern life, circa 1955.

The government also told us not to charge electric cars.

If were being told to stop using toasters, how are we going to charge our government-mandated EVs? The Trudeau government is banning the sale of new gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles by 2035.

This plan is a non-starter for two key reasons:

The EV mandate will likely cost taxpayers a shocking amount of money, and Canada doesnt have the electricity to power these vehicles.

Lets look at costs first.

Multiple levels of government have pledged about $57 billion to corporations that make EVs, including billions for Volkswagen and Honda.

Thats the corporate welfare cost, with governments dumping taxpayers money into the boardrooms of Berlin and Tokyo.

Then theres the sticker price of the EVs.

If the Trudeau government forces Canadians to buy only these types of new vehicles, it will sharply increase costs for people.

The cheapest new EV in Canada sells for about $41,000, with a vehicle like a Nissan Leaf eligible for a $5,000 rebate from the feds.

Last year, Canadians bought about 1.7 million new vehicles, the majority of which were cars, SUVs, and light trucks. If those vehicles were all EVs, the rebates would cost about $8 billion.

With the cheapest new gasoline-powered sedan selling for about $21,000, and with no rebate costs to taxpayers, theres a strong sticker shock in that price difference for both the person buying the car and taxpayers.

What about power bills?

The average Canadian household uses about 10,861 kWh of electricity per year. The average electric car uses about 4,310 kWh of energy per year, according to EVBox, a company that produces electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

If the average family had one EV and charged it at home, their electricity use would jump by about 40 percent.

Where is the electricity for these EVs coming from?

Calculations done in British Columbia show that if everyone switched to an electric car in B.C., the province would need about nine new Site C Dams. Site C cost about $16 billion and took about 10 years to build. Creating nine new Site C Dams tomorrow would cost about $144 billion.

In Alberta, hydro dams arent happening, and building a regular nuclear reactor costs about $15 billion and takes about 10 years to complete.

Alberta is home to about three million vehicles, and if they were electric, that fleet would use about 12.9 million mWh of power per year. The province would require about three nuclear plants to charge those vehicles.

Whos paying that tab? Taxpayers? Folks opening their power bills?

Weve seen this bad movie before.

Around 2015, the Ontario government signed contracts to buy green energy, and people faced surging power bills, some eclipsing $1,000 per month.

Ontarios auditor general found people overpaid their power bills by $37 billion because of government meddling with the electricity system.

Today, record numbers of working families across Canada are visiting food banks and about half of Canadians are within $200 every month of not being able to make the minimum payments on their bills. They cant afford higher power bills.

If Albertans are being told to eat cereal for supper to save the electricity grid today, how will they find the energy and money to charge the Trudeau trolley parked in the driveway tomorrow?

We dont know all the inevitable costs of Trudeaus EV mandate, but everything we do know indicates that we cant afford it.

Kris Sims is the Alberta Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.
The system has long been criticised by drivers, and now the state government is calling for it to be revised.

The distribution of ticketless parking fines has skyrocketed in NSW year on year, shocking new data has revealed. Source: Getty/Revenue NSW

Councils have been urged to "come to the table" and "deliver a solution which embraces transparency and fairness" after it was revealed the amount of ticketless parking fines handed down to unsuspecting drivers in one state has surged in the past financial year.

There was a whopping 49 per cent increase in NSW in the 2023-24 financial year when it came to the distribution of ticketless parking fines, new data has revealed, with 822,300 of the "invisible" infringements posted in 2023-24, compared to 551,400 in 2022-23.

The controversial system, which results in drivers only becoming aware of the fine weeks after the offence, was introduced by the previous Coalition state government. It has seemingly divided councils across the state, with some saying they'll continue only issuing on-the-spot fines, while others insisting they won't revert back unless they're made to.

Drivers on the other hand appear to be unanimous in their calls to have the system abolished. NSW Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos backed those calls and said the community feedback has been overwhelming in favour of councils providing drivers with on-the-spot notifications of parking fines.

Last month, Georges River Councillor Ashvini Ambihaipahar attracted a $238 ticketless fine after she was forced to pull over in a no-stopping zone to clear her foggy windscreen. Source: 9News

Government urges NSW councils to axe ticketless parking fines

The ticketless system allows parking officers to "send details of a fine directly to Revenue NSW which then sends an infringement notice by post or the Service NSW app".

Often, it has meant drivers are blithely unaware of said fines for weeks after they were registered, meaning there's little proof remaining to defend themselves.

There is also less of a deterrent as drivers could conceivably commit several offences, racking up multiple fines before realising they had been charged. Housos urged councils to consider this notion while encouraging them to limit how frequently they execute the invisible fines.

The ticketless system has proven controversial across NSW since its introduction. Source: Northern Beaches Council/Facebook

"Im grateful to the councils that have recognised the significant issues with the ticketless parking system introduced by the previous Liberal-National government," Houssos said.

"I have spoken to mayors and councils from across the state and many agree there is a fundamental issue with a failure to notify drivers at the time of the fine. Councils should come to the table and deliver a solution which embraces transparency and fairness.

Use 'common-sense', finance minister says

Houssos added: "if councils arent willing to provide a common-sense fix, the NSW Government will step in and use our policy levers to ensure the ticketless parking fine system meets community expectations."

Recently, several major councils around Sydney moved to sending parking tickets through the mail, without leaving a penalty notice on the car at the time of the offence. In March, the state government stepped in and wrote to all 128 local councils asking them to halt the further adoption of ticketless scheme, and encouraged changes after a surge in revenue from fines delivered to unsuspecting motorists.

According to the letter written to councillors by Houssos, about 45 per cent of penalty notices issued in the state were parking infringements and 55 per cent of them had been administered via the ticketless system first introduced in May 2020.

Overall, council-issued parking fines in NSW, both ticketless fines and paper fines, increased by more than 110,000  around nine per cent  between 2022-23 and 2023-24. Since March 2024, Houssos and Revenue NSW have engaged with councils to "understand how they use the ticketless parking fine system" and to share the minister's concerns about "its shortcomings".

Some NSW councils agree to abolish scheme, others stand firm

As a result, 30 councils across the state have said they have already, or plan to, adjust their operations to leave an instant, on-the-spot notification to drivers.

Others say they won't revert unless compelled through legislative change.

In the Blacktown, Hunters Hill, Mosman and Waverley LGAS, councils chose not to adopt the paperless scheme, but in North Sydney, the council said it had no plans to return to it.

The City of Sydney, which incorporates the CBD and surrounds, said it was reviewing the scheme in June. In Sydney's west, the Canterbury-Bankstown Council said it would continue posting fines or issuing a notification card at the officers' discretion. In 2023, paperless fines pulled in $139 million across the state, Revenue NSW data revealed.

The councils where rangers barely ever left physical tickets mainly included the City of Sydney, North Sydney, Northern Beaches, Burwood, Penrith, Hornsby, and Camden.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Numerous international travel warnings are in place from the Australian government, including for the United Kingdom where racial unrest continues.

Aussies have been warned of the 'threat of terrorism' in parts of the UK. Source: Getty

Aussie travellers have been warned to keep their wits about them if they plan to travel to the UK anytime soon, after the Australian government flagged there is a "threat of terrorism" in parts of England and Northern Ireland as rioters continue to spread unrest.

Towns and cities across England and Belfast have been shaken by a week of riots following the murder of three children at a Taylor Swift-themed event in a seaside town in England's northwest. The suspected killer was wrongly identified as an Islamist migrant on social media, and subsequently rioters have targeted mosques and the accommodation of refugees and asylum seekers.

Anti-migration protesters are seen during riots outside of the Holiday Inn Express in Manvers, which is being used as an asylum hotel, on August 4, 2024 in Rotherham, United Kingdom. Source: Getty

The unusual warning for the UK  a hugely popular destination for Australians  means travellers will need to "pay attention" if they are currently in Britain or are planning on travelling there, according to on expert in terrorism and violent extremism.

"It's really ugly and it also can be dangerous," Professor Greg Barton from Deakin University told Yahoo News. "If you're travelling to the UK, it just makes sense to pay attention to the news before you head down to some area... if there are problems, how would you get out safely?"

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer overnight said sufficient police will be on the streets to handle anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant riots in the coming days as he seeks to reassure communities braced for more violent protests. Messages online said immigration centres and law firms aiding migrants would be targeted on Wednesday, prompting anti-fascist groups to say they would counter any demonstration.

The government has increased prison capacity to cope with the large number of arrests made during the riots, which have prompted a growing number of countries to warn their citizens about the dangers of travelling in Britain.

Parts of England and Northern Ireland have been shaken by a week of riots. Source: AAP

Aussies hit with terror and travel warnings in Europe, Middle East

The Australian government has officially issued warnings for a number of countries in recent weeks, including Olympics host country France, and many in the Middle East such as Lebanon, Jordan and Israel. Travellers heading to Bali have also been warned of an ongoing terrorism threat as well as a dengue outbreak.

The numerous international warnings begs the question  should Aussies be reconsidering travel at the moment? Barton doesn't think so.

"No, I think in general one thing to take away from the ASIO announcement is not that we change our holiday or business travel plans. Generally, that's not required," he said, although he urged Aussies to follow travel instructions if authorities say a country or place is unsafe for travel.

"When you go to the airport or train station, don't switch off and drift into your own space. Keep alert," he advised.

The government's warning about the UK was issued to Aussie travellers on the same day as the country's intelligence agency ASIO raised the terror threat level in Australia from possible to probable, meaning it is likely a terror attack or the planning of one could occur in the next 12 months.

Aussies now warned to avoid Bangladesh as unrest spreads

Australian travellers have been told not to visit Bangladesh as political unrest spreads, with officials raising travel advice to its highest warning level.

Travel advice was upgraded to 'do not travel' on Wednesday, placing the South Asian nation on par with countries such as Iran and Afghanistan.

"There (are) ongoing protests and demonstrations across Bangladesh, with violent clashes throughout Dhaka and other cities," the travel advisory read.

"Many deaths and injuries have been reported. Curfews have been imposed at short notice."

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the situation in Bangladesh had become "extremely volatile" following violent protests, which had led to its prime minister fleeing the country and resigning.

Due to ongoing violence, our travel advice for Bangladesh has been updated to Do not travel.



The security situation is extremely volatile. Avoid large gatherings, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

@Smartraveller is being regularly updated.  Senator Penny Wong (@SenatorWong) August 7, 2024

Australians there have been urged to avoid large gatherings and monitor local media for updates.

Dependents of Australian officials in Bangladesh have been offered voluntary departures to Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in its travel advisory.

Census figures from 2021 show more than 51,000 people in Australia were born in Bangladesh.

with Reuters, AAP

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The hi-tech distribution centre, as big as 10 MCGs, has been opened in Sydney's west and is expected to increase stock delivery by 20 per cent.

Coles has opened a new automated distribution centre this week with robots doing the majority of manual labour. Source: Getty

Empty shelves can be a frustrating sight for grocery shoppers but supermarket giant Coles claims to have made a leap to reduce the problem for millions of Aussies.

On Tuesday, Coles opened its second automated distribution centre (ADC) in Sydney's west. A massive billion-dollar warehouse at Kemps Creek which is about the size of nine MCG playing fields. It will cater to all of its NSW and ACT stores, centralising the supply chain and increasing stock availability by 20 per cent, the supermarket says  regardless of whether customers are shopping in a city store or out in the regions.

The majority of the work in the distribution centre will be carried out by robots, meaning efficiency and accuracy will be improved, according to the company. It's the second of its kind for Coles, with its first ADC established last year in Redbank, Queensland.

"Today marks a key milestone on our roadmap to enhance our supply chain and improve our operating efficiency, with a world-class facility that will deliver improved availability for our NSW customers," Coles CEO Leah Weckert said.

Coles' first ADC opened in Redbank, Queensland last year. Source: Getty

How will this change impact Coles customers?

By having robots do the majority of the work at the ADC, it's likely the right stock will get to the right places quicker, meaning there will be fewer instances where shoppers get to the supermarket and are met with empty shelves or can't find the items they want.

"Ultimately, when you think about automation, really robots are doing the work. Humans are loading the pallets of inventory into racks but robots are essentially picking and packing, and consolidating," consumer expert Gary Mortimer told Yahoo News. "One of the issues with human labor is humans make mistakes, so that's reduced."

However, supply issues won't completely cease to exist now as there will still be times when "suppliers can't supply" as the country has recently seen in periods of extreme weather which disrupt producers and distribution.

But overall, the process of produce and products making their way to supermarket shelves will be sped up with the embrace of robotics-powered distribution centres, Mortimer argued.

"Once you remove the human element from it and shift it to robotics, essentially you can reduce time, increase efficiency and improve accuracy," he said.

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Aussie dad David Hogbin was in the 'wrong place at the wrong time' when he was killed. What others did before he arrived could have increased chances of an attack.

Video and images shared with Yahoo News indicate the crocodile believed to have killed a father-of-three was regularly fed in the spot where he fell. Source: Supplied

People who feed crocodiles or bait them for social media clicks could soon be hit with new penalties. Yahoo News can confirm discussions between environment groups and the government have escalated after footage emerged showing the animal responsible for a fatal attack in Cooktown being recently fed an esky full of fish.

The Queensland Government is being urged to lift penalties above the maximum of $6,452, to match fines for feeding dingoes on Kgari which sit at $12,904. But more importantly conservationists want a crackdown on reckless acts that encourage aggressive behaviour from crocodiles.

"They need more power, they need more staff to be able to actually protect people. This is a public safety issue, a whole of community issue," the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) managing North Queensland lawyer Kirstiana Ward told Yahoo News.

My heart breaks for [victim David Hogbins] family in NSW. This gentleman did nothing wrong. He came to Far North Queensland with his family to enjoy a wildlife experience. He was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.

He became a victim of an awful crocodile interaction. It may have been mitigated had other people not flagrantly been feeding him and habituating him to that place.

You can read more about the problem here:

Regular feeding of crocodiles linked to aggression

Feeding crocodiles makes them lose their fear of humans and associate them with food. The illegal practice can lead to large males waiting in ambush around an area they are regularly fed, creating a dangerous situation for unsuspecting tourists who don't know the area.

Queenslands Department of Environment (DESI) has been made aware of claims the animal that attacked and killed NSW father of three David Hogbin had been fed by fishermen for years.

But the EDO, advocacy group Community Representation of Crocodiles [CROC] and Traditional Owners have been urging the government for over a year to toughen penalties for those who engage in behaviour that puts the lives of humans and animals at risk.

Following Saturdays fatal attack, Ward spoke with DESIs head of policy. She believes DESI is open to stopping the problem of reckless behaviour around crocodiles.

In a statement to Yahoo News DESI confirmed it is considering updating its regulations. The Department is investigating potential changes to regulations to further deter people from activities that increase the risk of human-crocodile interactions in Croc Country.

It has previously advocated for community education over harsh penalties. But a spokesperson has conceded its "frustrated" by illegal behaviour around crocodiles.

"Wildlife officers... work hard to educate people about being Crocwise in Croc Country," it said.

"It is frustrating when people take unnecessary, life-threatening risks in known crocodile habitat by unlawfully feeding, approaching or interacting with estuarine crocodiles."

David Hogbin was killed by a crocodile in front of family at Cooktown. Source: GoFundMe

Call for Indigenous rangers to manage crocodile populations

Along with increased penalties and monitoring, Ward wants to see CCTV and fences placed in areas where large crocodiles are known to be fed. She also advocates for allowing Indigenous communities to help make decisions around the management crocodiles on their own country.

She argues simply killing large male crocodiles does not improve public safety. When a large male crocodile is shot by authorities, it simply creates a power vacuum where younger males fight for dominance.

A GoFundMe appeal has raised more than $90,000 to help Dr Hogbin's family.

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When it comes to the cost of living crisis, 'every little helps', according to one vandal.

As the cost-of-living crisis maintains its grip on people everywhere, theres no denying that when it comes to cutting costs, every little bit helps. But that sentiment may have gone too far in one beachside car park where vandals attempted to send a message to the local council by destroying two parking meters beyond use in the name of saving cash.

Footage of the scene circulating online sees the words free parking, every little helps, spray painted onto the sign. Whats more, the video shows cavity foam stuffed and hardened in every crevice of the two parking meters so that they are unusable.

While the desperate act happened on the other side of the world at a beachside car park on the Cornwall coast in the UK, the incident shared on social media resonated with Australians frustrated at the cost of parking at the beach.

Snap Send Solve CEO Danny Gorog told Yahoo News it speaks to a wider issue "we can't ignore" with beachside vandalism in Australia rising by a huge 129 per cent.

The parking meters at Gwithian Beach in Cornwall have been destroyed by vandals. Source: TikTok

Vandalised parking meters easily replaced, council says

In response to the vandalism of the two parking meters at Gwithian in Cornwall last month, the UK council responsible for the car park told Yahoo News the machines will be replaced.

Replacement machines and signs are being installed, a spokesperson said. And despite the best efforts of the vandal, beachgoers must still pay for parking using a cashless parking app.

Beachside parking has long been a contentious topic, with one Aussie fined $136 last month for simply 'checking out the surf' at a popular beach. Someone shared the UK video on TikTok saying Australians have decided paying for beach parking is over, despite the incident being in Cornwall. And some Aussies responded congratulating the Cornwall vandals for destroying the meters, saying it was inspiring, with some going as far as to say its about time, and even ask what used to destroy the meters, sparking copycat fears.

This video made my day, thanks to the person who did this, said one Aussie.

What is used to do this? Asking for a mate, said a second.

Now the idiots here will try it, added a third.

Vandalism hits nerve in Australia as cost of parking soars

The cost of parking at the beach in Australia is notoriously expensive  costing as much as $10 an hour at Sydney's northern beaches and $9.50 an hour in Bondi  and fines for doing the wrong thing can be financially ruinous.

NSW councils have even been told today to stop issuing ticketless parking fines where there has been a 49 per cent jump in use of the system in the 2023-24 financial year.

Snap Send Solve CEO Danny Gorog told Yahoo recent data shows a "notable increase" in vandalism  with a 129 per cent rise in beach vandalism compared to last year.

Keeping our stunning beaches clean and well-managed is critical for the community to enjoy them. Parking meter vandalism isnt a minor issueit reflects broader frustrations we cant ignore," he said.

"Its clear the community is feeling the pinch of parking and availability of infrastructure. With summer on the horizon and the inevitable migration of Aussies to the beach approaching, its an issue that could easily worsen."

Gorog says beachside incidents can be tackled by beachgoers and authorities working "together to address problems quickly and effectively."

One Australian woman who recently visited New Zealand was left in disbelief at how little a parking fine cost her in Auckland  compared to the cost in Australia.

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Tenants are being forced to living in sub-par properties that are riddled with black mould which can have serious consequences.

Katie Williams (right) and her partner Georgia Hull (left) were forced out of their Sydney rental after Katie began experiencing mould-related illness. Source: Facebook/The Confidential

Not only are Aussie renters having to contend with a housing shortage in a competitive rental market, but a grim problem is rearing its ugly, and dangerous head in more and more properties across the country.

Black mould has, alarmingly, become a common fixture in many properties available for rent within Australia, with Sydney and Melbourne leading the way. Sub-standard homes are being offered at above-average, and arguably extortionate, prices with very little choice often given to tenants.

Dr Nicola Willand, from the School of Property, Construction and Project Management at RMIT, said it's "difficult to say" how prevalent the issue of mould has become as there are no statistics. But a study from a few years ago suggested over 20 per cent of homes, selected at random across Victoria, were found to have been contaminated, she told Yahoo News Australia.

"I think it's really, really sad that we are at this point because it also means that there is non-compliance when it comes to renting our homes," she said. "In a housing crisis, a rental crisis, that we've got at the moment, renters are not able to choose a home that is mould-free. Because if you look into rental rights, the home should be mould-free."

Sydney couple forced to move as mould got 'progressively worse'

One Sydney couple recently shared their experience living with mould. For 18 months, Katie Williams, an ex-beach sprinter, and contestant on Big Brother Australia, suffered from physical symptoms which had a dire impact on her health.

"I was getting rashes on my eyelids, I had really bad asthma, I had a tight chest, inflamed sore chest and got sick all the time," Williams told Confidential, the Daily Telegraph reported on Wednesday. "I'd wake up with headaches feeling really hungover and groggy, not feeling well and that was early on."

It got "progressively worse" with mould beginning to grow on her clothes and furniture inside the Rose Bay apartment she shared with her partner Georgia Hull. The health implications of mould ultimately cost her thousands, she claimed.

Alarmingly, they were paying $975 a week combined in rent for the poorly maintained two-bedroom apartment before eventually being forced to move out. And she's not the only one.

Aussie renters have taken to Facebook to share their problems with mould. Source: Facebook

Many Australians forced to endure 'poor living conditions'

Previously, another Sydney tenant documented the "poor living conditions" she was made to endure as mould quickly began taking over the home just two months after moving in.

The issue of mould is a common dispute between renters and landlords, according to Leo Patterson Ross, the CEO of the Tenants Union of NSW.

"We often see these kinds of disputes coming out of basically a dispute about whether tenants are treating their property well, and unfortunately it seems that lots of people are told that it must be them and their behaviour, even when its pretty clear that theres a problem with the building," he told Yahoo News Australia.

What are the regulations around living with mould

Earlier this year, Tenants Victoria, along with The Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC), conducted a "mystery shop" of 100 rental properties across parts of Victoria. Undercover renters who inspected the homes found that nine had visible mould while 15 failed to meet the standards for heating.

According to Tenants Victoria, properties for rent need to be free from mould and damp and meet minimum standards for ventilation. The rental provider, or the landlord, must inform interested tenants if a property you want to rent has a history of mould and damp.

"Theres a risk that in a tight rental market some people may feel they have no choice but to accept unsafe or unsuitable properties," Erin Turner, CEO of the CPRC, warned.

In NSW, the regulations are similar. According to the Tenants Union NSW, a landlord must "provide the premises reasonably clean and comply with minimum standards to be 'fit for habitation'." This includes having adequate ventilation, plumbing and drainage.

Adequate ventilation is one of the seven minimum standards that properties must meet to be fit to live in," the NSW government states.

Improper heating and ventilation to blame for mould in Aussie homes

The issue, mostly, comes down to improper heating and ventilation, Dr Willand explained. Which is, almost always, a landlord's issue, not the renters.

"Australian homes tend to be uninsulated, draughty and fitted with inefficient heaters. This means that warmth dissipates quickly once heating is switched off, air movement between heated areas and the colder walls and windows make people feel uncomfortable, and it makes heating very ineffective and expensive," she said.

Dr Willand agreed "many people are unaware of the health risks associated with cold homes," including mould exposure.

"Sydney has got a little bit more moisture outside. It's a little bit warmer than Melbourne, but I think the conditions that produce mould would be very similar in various cities," she said.

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Sonja thought she'd booked an incredible Airbnb with ocean views, but the reality couldn't have been further from the truth.

Social media influencer Sonja Dennig, 28 said she was "catfished so bad" after booking an Airbnb. Source: TikTok/Instagram

An influencer who thought she'd booked a room at a scenic holiday hotspot with "beautiful seaside views" was delivered a rude surprise after arriving at her Airbnb, instantly realising after pulling back the curtains that she had been "screwed so hard".

Sonja Dennig booked accommodation in Westerland in Germany on the pristine island of Sylt, for a weekend away late last month.

She said she was promised an ocean-side suite with incredible views from the bedroom. But after arriving, she found that not only were her expectations not met, the "views" were in fact a poster hung over a basement window.

Dennig explained in her video the lighting is even adaptable to replicate different shades throughout the day. Source: TikTok

Influencer instantly realises she was 'catfished' by Airbnb listing

The 28-year-old took to social media to share the bizarre setup, which she said left her feeling duped and "catfished". "We were looking forward to discovering this beautiful view," Dennig said, according to a translation in European media.

"We thought: 'Wow, what a great view we have,' but look, its just a photo. Were just in the basement."

In Dennig's video, the social media personality is seen touring around a modest holiday apartment. All appears to be well until she walks closer towards a window, when it becomes apparent the view outside is in fact just a large print, topped off with artificial lighting in place to replicate the sun.

From a distance, you could be forgiven for mistaking the poster as a genuine view, but a closer look reveals the host's scam. "Youre in bed, its midnight, but you think its either evening or morning sun. Its pretty amazing," Dennig said in a supporting video.

Online, people were both impressed and outraged by the hilarious stitch-up.

"The most amazing thing is that the picture looks totally real," one person said.

"This has such dollhouse vibes," said another.

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During an interview with Yahoo News in 2021, Dr Muhammad Yunus warned the economy was a threat to the environment and people.

Dr Muhammad Yunus has been chosen as the interim leader of Bangladesh after the country's prime minister was overthrown. Source: Getty (File)

Dr Muhammad Yunus has been chosen as the interim leader of Bangladesh after the nations prime minister fled the country when thousands of demonstrators took to the streets and stormed her official residence and set it on fire. But who is Dr Yunus?

Yahoo News Australia sat down with the Nobel Laureate for an hour-long interview during the Covid-19 pandemic about the failure of the worlds economic systems to combat racism, poverty and environmental collapse. During our discussion, he declared himself a compulsive optimist, but warned the worlds obsession with money was putting humankind at risk.

Muhammad Yunus's bold prediction: 'The house is burning'

During his 2021 interview with Yahoo, Yunus predicted current financial thinking that puts money above people would lead to global unrest. That warning appears to have been realised in his home country, where more than 300 people have died during the uprising against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina who has been described as a "tyrant" and an "autocrat"

(Outside the) house is burning, but inside the house we are having a party, enjoying ourselves, he said.

(Theres) economic growth and fantastic prosperity and all the beautiful technology is making our lives wonderful, but we dont give a second thought that were under a burning house.

Thats how we have been addicted. Our eyes cannot see, our body cannot feel. Soon it will be all burnt into ash. We cant do that.

You can watch an edited video of the interview below.

What do I need to know about Yunus?

Yunus, now aged 83, was a pioneer in microfinance, a concept that gave loans to people ordinarily too poor to access credit, so they could become entrepreneurs. He founded the Grameen Bank in 1983 to carry out this service.

He has been interviewed by talk show host Oprah Winfrey and appeared in cartoon form on The Simpsons.

Yunus has been a long time critic of the former prime minister during her 15-year rule, calling him a bloodsucker and accusing him of being focused primarily on money. The students behind the current uprising had proposed Yunus become leader.

He has faced dozens of lawsuits in Bangladesh, including accusations of money laundering and embezzlement. In 2023, 170 world leaders including Barack Obama wrote an open letter saying they were alarmed by continuous judicial harassment of Yunus.

What has Yunus said about the worlds economic system?

Speaking with Yahoo News in 2021, Yunus criticised global financial systems for putting individual profit maximisation above the collective interest. He said the economy had evolved in a flawed haphazard way over time, and its structure needed to be questioned.

It was working in the wrong direction and we never stopped it, he said.

We got so glued into it, mesmerised by it, and continued to extol the virtues of the things that we do.

What has Yunus said about climate change?

Yunus has warned the world needed to work harder to tackle the threat of climate change.

Its good to have a plan for 2050, but before that we have to ask ourselves, will we be there in 2050? he told Yahoo.

Human beings today are the most endangered species on the planet, we dont have much time left.

What has Yunus said about fossil fuels?

Yunus is a critic of fossil fuel companies and their impact on the planet.

Fossil fuels sit very clearly with their intentions  making money. Because fossil fuels bring money, fossil fuels create jobs, thats what the translation is, Yunus said in 2021.

Not only I make money, also you make money. Using the word job means they want to bring you to their side. Ill get the money, and youll get the job and have an income.

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Sarah Rose was shocked by the dogs she found distressed in bushland in Sydney's west, highlighting a widespread issue with devastating consequences.

Sarah Rose, along with local volunteers, have been able to locate several dumped dogs in bushland in Sydney's west (left). They've since put up water and feeding stations to help them survive. Source: Supplied

There's an emerging crisis in Australia, and it's not the housing or cost-of-living challenges we're all struggling with. Sarah Rose, an animal welfare advocate, says illegal and unethical dog dumping is the worst it's ever been  and it's rapidly spreading across the country.

Rose, who lives in Sydney's eastern suburbs, believes there's an "epidemic occurring with our companion dogs". More and more she is discovering mass dumpings of puppies and adult dogs on the verge of dying.

The issue has been particularly prominent in Sydney's west in recent months with multiple reports of animals being left for dead in "vast bushland" near Penrith. Rose was alerted to the "mass dumping" by a local on Facebook. When she ventured out to take a look she was shocked by what she saw.

"There were multiple dogs running around through dense bushland," she told Yahoo News Australia. "Three out of eight dogs we found last weekend were actually pregnant. It was clear there had been a dumping, intentional and illegal dumping."

"The location is very vast bushland, some of which is Aboriginal land, so its not monitored by council," she added. "A big part of the problem is theyre not microchipped and thats done on purpose, just out of pure carelessness. Because when the dogs are no longer needed [for breeding purposes] to make money, they can relinquish them, without any trace or accountability".

Puppies are being dumped in the vast bushland surrounding Fire Trail Road and Hinxman Road in Sydney's far west. Source: Google Maps

Reasons contributing to rise in animal dumpings

Rose believes both backyard breeding and irresponsible pet ownership is what's driving the issue.

"People need to understand before they purchase a dog in particular, there are long-term responsibilities that come with pet ownership, even if their circumstances change," she said

The issue was particularly widespread during and after the Covid pandemic when pet ownership soared, likely due to more time spent at home. What followed was an influx of surrenders or re-homing which caused overcrowding at shelters, ultimately resulting in mass euthanasia and the current issue of dumping  but it goes beyond Covid, Rose said.

"This whole issue is not just isolated to breeders. It's also people just dumping their own pets for whatever reason. Whether it means that they don't have accommodation anymore, or it also could mean that they can't afford the dog," she said.

"There is an animal welfare crisis and epidemic occurring with our companion dogs. Its an absolute disgrace. Backyard breeding must be outlawed, it is contributing to countless dogs being dumped in remote bushland and being left for dead.

"It's just a really sad reality that there's so many people that treat their dogs as their children, like part of the family. But there's a high majority that do not. I believe for more than 50 per cent, theres just absolute disregard."

An influx of dogs, often not microchiped, have turned up 'lost' across the country. Rose believes they've 'likely been used for breeding and dumped'. Source: Supplied

In the last year, RSPCA NSW received an average of 20 calls a day relating to surrenders. "Pet rental challenges and economic hardship appear to have led to an increased demand for our shelter services," an RSPCA spokesperson told Yahoo. There's also been a 30 per cent decline in pet adoptions.

The dog dumping problem 'is everywhere'

For the ongoing issue playing out in Sydney's west, Rose believes "there's still dogs out there" they haven't been able to find. Now, she's asking for the public to intervene and help rescue the animals. For the time being, food and water stations have been set up to help keep them alive.

To make matters worse, she also witnessed a bunch of building materials, including household items, piles of tyres that had been set on fire, as well as suspected asbestos, which she said is a biohazard putting both the dogs and and general public "at risk".

People have also taken to dumping building materials, including suspected asbestos, in the bushland area. Source: Supplied/Google Maps

But "the problem is everywhere", she stressed to Yahoo during a phone call on Wednesday.

"This happens a lot everywhere across Australia, and across the world where you get these mass dumpings. People that no longer want to breed, or they don't have the resources to breed or for whatever reason, they don't want their pets anymore, they just dump them," she said.

"Dogs, in particular, are getting into the hands of the wrong people, and they're getting into their hands way too easily. Backyard breeding, they don't have to be registered breeders. It's all tax-free dollars. There's a lot of a lot unethical breeding as well, such as cross-breeding the wrong dogs together."

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Sarah Carter was first elected in 2008 and served as the Mayor of Maribyrnong in Melbourne in 2011, 2020 and 2022.

Tributes are flowing for a former Aussie mayor who was found dead in her home on Tuesday afternoon. Police say the sudden death of the Melbourne politician and three-time Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter is not being treated as suspicious, with her body having been located at an address in Village Way, in the city's inner-west, just before 4pm yesterday.

The 45-year-old is being remember for being the first three-time female mayor of Maribyrnong  which encompasses the suburbs of Braybrook, Footscray, Kingsville, Maidstone, Maribyrnong, Seddon, Tottenham, West Footscray and Yarraville  and for her "unwavering and unbeatable passion".

In a statement, the City of Maribyrnong said Carter, who was serving her fourth consecutive term on the council, was a "trusted and valued colleague" with her "passing an enormous loss to our community".

"Council is shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former Mayor and councillor Sarah Carter," the statement said. "She has worked tirelessly to support [her community] over her 16 years on council.

Carter was the first woman in history to hold the title of mayor in Maribyrnong for three terms. Source: City of Maribyrnong

"Maribyrnongs first three-time female mayor, councillor Carter was only the second mayor in our municipalitys history to achieve Emeritus status  the highest recognition for distinguished service in local government leadership. We extend our deepest condolences to Cr Carters partner, family, friends, and all who knew and worked alongside her.

"She will be greatly missed."

Carter, a member of the Labor party, was first elected in 2008 and served as mayor in 2011, 2020 and 2022. She also worked for charity organisation Save The Children. In 2023 Carter received the Mayor Emeritus Award, which is given to councillors who serve three terms as mayor.

According to some reports about her surprising death, she was touted by some in the party as a future potential Labor leader.

Tributes have poured in from colleagues and those in the media. Source: Instagram

Community reacts after 'enormous loss'

Victorian MP Natalie Hutchins said Carter was like a sister. "Today I lost a true sister Councillor Sarah Carter  words cant describe how devastated at the news of her passing," she wrote online.

"Sarah, your work at Save the Children was unwavering, unbeatable and fuelled with passion. Your commitment to the people of Maribrynong was extraordinary  16 years as a councillor and the only woman to serve as mayor three times. You had a tireless commitment to Labor and for always standing up for womens rights.

"Most importantly I want to thank you for always having my back, for being my friend and being by my side both professionally and personally. I know International Women's Day will not be the same without you."

ABC journalist and prominent television personality Michael Rowland said he was "rocked" to hear the sad news. "I was rocked to wake up this morning and learn of the death of Maribyrnong councillor and former Mayor, Sarah Carter," he said this morning.

"I would often see Sarah at events in our local community. Her energy, enthusiasm and passion were infectious. Sarah was a true champion of Melbournes west and all the people she represented during her 16 years on the council. She will be greatly missed."

A report is being prepared for the coroner.

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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After 48 hours, India-Bangladesh border now open for trucks carrying commodities: CNBC-TV18
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How 'far-sighted' Mamata Banerjee navigated spillover of Bangladesh crisis with political savvy
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Perth carpenter Finbar watched as his ute, with all his tools, were stolen from him home in a worrying trend targeting tradies.

Perth-based tradie Finbar is $25,000 out of pocket after his work ute and all his tools were stolen. Source: GoFundMe

Tradies across the country are being warned to lock up their tools and take extra precautions, even outside their homes, as targeted theft continues to threaten the livelihood of many workers.

Perth-based carpenter Finbar is the latest to have had his tools and work ute stolen, leaving him $25,000 out of pocket and potentially without the ability to work. Previously, a tradie from Melbourne told Yahoo News of the brazen heist outside his home which left him $15,000 in debt.

Shannon Powell contacted Yahoo after seeing our chat with fellow tradie Chris Wall who claimed he had $14,000 worth of tools stolen from his vehicle, also outside his home.

As for Finbar, he'd only purchased the white 4x4 Toyota HiLux two weeks ago, two days later it was stolen. According to a friend, who's attempting to help aid with the financial loss, the carpenter hadnt yet taken out insurance on the tools or the vehicles canopy, which has left him short $25,000.

Finbar took to social media in a desperate bid for information. "'If anyone knows anything or might have footage please let me know," he wrote shortly after the incident.

The man claimed his car was stolen about 10pm on July 23 and CCTV cameras captured the thief making off with his ute parked in the Fremantle area. It was last spotted 30km away in Maddington that same night. It's not known if police were notified.

The tradie claims he saw the thief taking off with the ute on CCTV which captured the brazen act. Source: GoFundMe

Friends rally around tradie after 'crushing blow'

Friends of the WA tradie have rallied around him and set up a GoFundMe page to help him get back on his feet".

"Im hoping we can use this platform to raise some funds amongst his friends and the wider tradie community around WA who know what a good bloke he is and what a crushing blow this would be if it happened to one of us," his friend and organiser Zebedee Dwyer wrote.

"He had been working away on a rural job to save up as hes currently studying while working as a chippy, so it wont be easy to save the kind of money required to replace everything that has been stolen.

"The funds raised will go directly towards replacing the stolen tools and canopy while hopefully the car insurance can be cleared, and mostly cover the cost of replacing the ute."

Tool theft on the rise across the country

Theft of tradies' tools, while on the rise, has been a troubling issue for some years. According to the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV), they're a prime target "because theyre high value and easily portable". Often it takes years to build up a collection only to lose it all in an instant.

It's a problem costing Victorian tradies alone up to $20 million a year, according to RACV. The problem is so rife a Facebook page dedicated to 'stolen tradie gear' has garnered a following of more than 16,000 followers.

with Newswire NCA

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Maharashtra Elections 2024: Uddhav Thackeray as CM face? Shiv Sena supremo in Delhi, to meet Rahul Gandhi & Mallikarjun Kharge
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Parliament Session News Highlights:FM Sitharaman questioned whether members have ever formally requested the removal of taxes on medical insurance.

FM noted that members have not communicated with their respective Finance Ministers to advocate for reducing GST on medical insurance.
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PM Modi directed IOA to act on Vinesh Phogat's Olympics disqualification: Mansukh Mandaviya in Lok Sabha
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After years of inactivity by the owner of the Auburn Schine Theater, the city is moving to take possession of the historic downtown property.

A notice of certification of abandonment has been posted in the doors of the 16 South St. theater by the city's code enforcement office. As of July 24, it says, the office has determined that the theater is legally abandoned. The reason for that determination was not immediately made available to The Citizen.

With the certification, the city will move to take possession of the Schine in Cayuga County Supreme Court, the notice continues. No further information is included.

The theater has been owned by Schines Theater LLC since December 2018. The LLC is closely linked with East Syracuse developer Bryan Bowers and his firm, Bowers Development.

Bowers did not respond to a request for comment by The Citizen.

Around the same time the LLC bought the 1938 art deco theater for $15,000 from previous owner the Cayuga County Arts Council, Bowers oversaw the remediation of its asbestos and other hazardous materials. The work was supported by $800,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds allocated by the city.

However, there has been little apparent progress on the Schine since then. Bowers appeared in June 2022 before Auburn City Council, saying he hoped to reopen the theater by its 85th anniversary in September 2023. He also said he would be back before City Council that fall  but city officials told The Citizen their communication with him since then has been scarce.

That lack of communication is one reason the city issued the certification of abandonment, Auburn Mayor Jimmy Giannettino told The Citizen on Tuesday.

"We did not take this decision lightly, but felt we had no choice," he said.

"My hope is that the developer will come to the table with a viable path forward because that is what's best for the community and for the Schine theater."

Auburn Schine Theater still silent. How much has been spent on it? Aside from another missing panel in its rusty marquee and more fingertip tracings in its dusty glass, nothing about the Auburn Schine Theater appears to have changed recently.

Giannettino added that he told Bowers shortly after the LLC purchased the Schine, a rehabilitation project dating back to 1998, that it's "an emotional and personal project for the people of Auburn."

"You've got to communicate with them," Giannettino said. "And he just hasn't lived up to that."

Another sign of the LLC's lack of communication with the city has been its failure to pay taxes on time. The Schine owner has fallen behind a few times, Auburn Treasurer Robert Gauthier told The Citizen. In May, the LLC owed $19,208.01 after making its last payment in January 2022 for $9,485.30.

Bowers, who has estimated the theater's rehabilitation would cost about $6 million, is in line to receive $2.2 million in state grants for the project: $1.2 million from the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council and a $1 million Restore New York grant awarded to the city on the Schine's behalf. Despite both grants being announced more than five years ago, Empire State Development confirmed to The Citizen in May that the theater remains eligible to receive them. They are reimbursement grants, so they will not be received until the money has been spent.

A possible explanation for Bowers' lack of progress on the Schine is the amount of other projects he's overseeing. In Utica, he's been involved in a years-long eminent domain case with Oneida County. He has also been issued tickets by that city's code enforcement office due to similar inactivity at several historic properties he has purchased there over the last decade.

Bowers recently became attached to a project in Syracuse as well, one that will demolish the 120-year-old warehouse at 400 Erie Blvd. W. to make way for apartments.

Gallery: The Auburn Schine Theater turns 85
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Sheikh Hasina 'may face assassination attempts': Indian astrologer's December prediction on Bangladesh downfall comes true
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With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

XPENG to begin presales for MONA M03

On August 8, XPENG will kick off presales for the MONA M03 at 10:00 AM. Launched in June, the A-segment smart electric hatchback is priced under 200,000 yuan and is set to be officially released later this month.

Photo credit: XPENG

GAC Group teams with Volcano Engine

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SYNCORE, TCL join hands to build smart cockpit products

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Huawei, JAC Groups collaborative vehicle enters testing phase

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China highlights EV charging network development in new action plan

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Lenovo Vehicle Computing rolls off AD1 domain controller for L4 autonomous driving

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BMW releases images of China-made all-new X3 model with extended wheelbase

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BYD Yuan UP BEV model hits Chilean market

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Beijing (Gasgoo)- On August 2, Lenovo Vehicle Computing announced its automotive-grade AD1 domain controller for the L4 autonomous driving market has rolled off the production line at its Hefei industrial base. This milestone establishes Lenovo as one of the first Tier1 automotive suppliers globally to successfully integrate the NVIDIA DRIVE Thor platform.



Photo credit: Lenovo Vehicle Computing

Lenovo Vehicle Computings AD1 domain controller boasts impressive AI acceleration capabilities with INT8/FP8 computing power reaching 2,100 TOPS. It meets ISO 26262 ASIL D standards for functional safety and complies with ISO 21434 for cybersecurity, offering a variety of sensor interfaces. Lenovo is developing this controller based on the NVIDIA DRIVE OS, an operating system designed for safe, AI-driven automotive applications.

The AD1 is tailored for L4 autonomous driving commercial scenarios, ensuring high computing power, safety, reliability, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance. It paves the way for mass production of autonomous commercial vehicles such as Robotaxis, RoboTrucks, RoboBuses, and RoboSweepers. Autonomous driving solution provider and service operator WeRide has chosen Lenovo Vehicle Computing's NVIDIA DRIVE-based solutions for their next-generation autonomous driving technologies.

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Beijing (Gasgoo)- On August 7, AI large model data service provider KuanDeng Technology announced the completion of a nearly 100-million-yuan Series B2 financing round. This round was jointly led by Guangdong Rongtai Capital and Zhejiang Deqing Government Industrial Fund, and the funds will primarily be used to accelerate KuanDeng's large-scale expansion and product development.

Photo credit: KuanDeng Technology

Founded in 2017 by former Baidu Vice President Liu Jun, KuanDeng Technology focuses on HD map platforms to advance autonomous driving and smart transportation. It is one of 19 companies in China approved for Grade A qualifications in navigational electronic maps.

KuanDeng's core technologies include deep learning, image recognition, 3D visions, intelligent robotics, map construction, and big data cloud services. Since its inception, the company has adopted a technology path that supports multi-source data updates and ultra-high-precision image modeling, developing a forward-looking AI-based geographic data production and service platform to achieve low-cost, high-efficiency large-scale data collection and creation.

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Guams Department of Revenue and Taxation issued a notice regarding social media accounts claiming they can issue or renew driver's licenses, a service only provided by DRT.
 Read the full article on Finding Old Cars

A former street racer in great condition, perfect for a restoration project.

A stunning 1970 Ford Torino GT 351 has been discovered in a barn, unveiling an intriguing history as a 1970s street racer. This remarkable find, which has been in storage since 1979, remains in surprisingly good condition and presents an exciting project opportunity for classic car enthusiasts.

The Ford Torino, first launched in 1968, featured a lineup of 14 models, including the sporty GT version. By 1970, Ford had introduced the second generation of Torinos, including the two-door Torino GT available as a 'sports roof' or convertible. These models boasted revised interiors and optional bucket seats, enhancing their appeal.

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This particular 1970 Ford Torino GT 351, equipped with the original 351 Cleveland engine, has a storied past. According to the eBay seller 69-z28, the car was once a street racer. After its racing days, it was put into storage in 1979, where it remained untouched for decades. Despite the long period of dormancy, the car's exterior is in good condition, with minimal rust and damage. It retains its original Shaker hood, solid floors, and a robust body, while the interior also appears well-preserved.

The Torino's engine, which had been rebuilt before storage, initially seized up after years of inactivity. However, the finders managed to soak the cylinders with a secret mixture for about a month, and somewhat miraculously, the engine now turns over and attempts to run. Despite this progress, the engine's condition is still not optimal and may require further disassembly and work.

This classic car maintains its original 4-speed transmission and Hurst shifter, adding to its authenticity. While the car lacks power steering and power brakes, its bare-bones nature makes it an ideal candidate for restoration. Notably, there was some damage caused by a wheel that came off, but the seller includes all necessary parts in the sale, making it a feasible project for someone looking to restore a piece of automotive history.

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The 1970 Ford Torino GT 351 barn find stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American muscle cars. Its history as a street racer and its solid condition despite years in storage make it a fascinating discovery. For those with a passion for classic car restoration, this Torino offers a unique opportunity to revive a legendary vehicle and experience the thrill of owning a piece of 1970s automotive heritage.

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Yosemite, CA The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) aims to improve and update national park infrastructure to provide equitable and accessible recreational opportunities.

In Yosemite National Park, the iconic Ahwahnee Hotel is undergoing a significant $35 million seismic strengthening project funded by the GAOA. The project aims to address the vulnerabilities of this historic asset, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The renovation includes adding structural bracing and shear walls in the dining room and kitchen, reinforcing fireplaces and the stone chimney, and replacing windows with safety-tempered glass. Additionally, modern heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems will be installed while fireproofing, insulation, and utilities will be upgraded to meet current safety codes.

The rehabilitation work requires adherence to strict preservation standards, demanding a specialized skill set. Its like a completely different kind of construction than building new. Were not just protecting a building; were safeguarding a piece of American history, said Randal Corral, a project manager at Yosemite.
Columbia, CA More than 220 fourth through ninth-grade students participated in the Mad About Science Summer STEM program hosted by the Tuolumne County Superintendent of Schools at Columbia College during the week of July 29-August 2. The program provided hands-on STEM activities guided by eleven local educators.

Students engaged in engineering challenges, built and programmed robots, explored computer coding and discovered nature through plant and insect identification. The program also offered chemistry and physics experiments to enrich young minds. This years program featured contributions from Tuolumne County 4-H ambassadors and local high school students, who led engaging Ozobot robot activities for younger participants. Holly Heath of the Tuolumne River Trust introduced a topographic sand table for sixth-grade students, demonstrating watershed dynamics in an interactive way.

The activities aimed to spark a passion for science and technology while encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking among students. Funded by a generous grant from Front Porch, the Mad About Science Summer STEM program is free for Tuolumne County students. For more information, visit here.
SAN FRANCISCOReal-life camming couple Callum Cox and Cole Connor star as new graduates from Oxford University heading into their last summer of freedom and fun in new NakedSword Originals feature Heart On, which begins rolling out today on NakedSword.com and releases this Friday, August 9, on DVD and as a digital download at Store.FalconStudios.com.

Written by Ben Rush and co-directed by Rush and Alter Sin, Heart On was shot on location in Barcelona and Torremolinos and follows Callum and Cole's month-long post-graduation trip through Europe, where out-and-proud Callum becomes horned-up imagining the secret sex lives of fellow tourists while a closeted Cole must come to terms with some unexpected feelings. Marking the couple's studio debut, the movie also stars Falcon|NakedSword exclusives Sir Peter and Beau Butler, as well as Derek Kage, Manuel Reyes, Damon Heart, Nik Fros, Allen King, Lobo Carreira, Drew Valentino and Dean Young, with the latter two appearing in today's premiere episode. New episodes are slated to release on NakedSword.com each Wednesday.

Relays a company synopsis of Heart On, "While exploring Barcelonas nightlife with best friend Cole Connor, college grad Callum Cox cant help but stare as two strangers, Dean Young and Drew Valentino, lock lips. It isnt long before Callums imagination is running wild. He fantasizes about the couple having public sex, with Dean sucking off Drews big hairy dick and Drew rimming the twinks smooth ass. The dirty thoughts continue as Callum pictures Drew fucking Dean with everything from his fingers to his bareback cock to his glass soda bottle until Drews ready to bust all over his lovers plump ass. Later, with his head out of the clouds, Callum announces to Cole that this graduation trip will end with him having a torrid summer fling. Now the only question iswith whom?

"In future episodes of Heart On," the synopsis continues, "a still-aroused Callum fantasizes about hotel guests Derek Kage, Manuel Reyes and Damon Heart having a raw three-way fuck-down by the hotel pool. But it isnt until the two college buddies observe Beau Butler and his husband, Nik Fros, canoodling at a historic cinema that Cole begins to realize that he, too, has repressed romantic feelings for menand maybe even for his closest friend. Callum and Cole make an on-the-fly decision to travel to Torremolinos to explore the beaches and the bustling gay scene, unknowingly arriving smack in the middle of the Grabby Awards Europe. There, Cole formally comes out when he spots internationally renowned porn studs Sir Peter, Allen King and Lobo Carreira, and takes them up on an indecent proposal to be voyeurs while the famous performers enjoy a recreational bareback fuck. The heightened sexual environment and unabashed naughtiness make evident the romantic tension thats been simmering between Callum and Cole for a very long time. What on the surface seems like a tawdry encounter essentially paves the way for Callum and Cole to experience lovemaking for the first time and sets the course for a bright future together."

The trailer for Heart On is available on YouTube, and an official Heart On capsule collection has been unveiled in the Falcon Merch Shop. This limited-edition line of merchandise includes everything from branded shirts to bags to hoodies to art prints.

The premiere and all upcoming episodes of Heart On are available for promotion through NakedSwordCash.com.



For DVD retail and wholesale purchasing, contact John Gunderson at [email protected]. Contact Cameron Greer at [email protected] for any additional information.
A 29-year-old Harare man appeared in court yesterday accused of stabbing his girlfriend and her boyfriend after he found them sleeping together in his house, after lula lula.

Blessing Matsvai was charged with attempted murder and appeared before Harare magistrate Mrs Apollonia Marutya. He was remanded in custody until today for pre-recording.

The court heard that on August 4, Linda Moyo was fast asleep in the company of Takunda Chitope at House Number 28 Rayham Street, Eastlea, Harare. Matsvai entered the house and found the couple asleep.

He then stabbed Moyo once between the left collar bones with a kitchen knife. He then turned his anger on Chitope, stabbing him once between the right collar bone and once below the right ear before fleeing the scene.

A formal police report was made and Matsvai was arrested and detained. Moyo was medically treated and a medical report compiled, which indicated that she sustained a deep cut between left collar bones due to the assault.

The State may produce, as exhibit, a medical report and the knife used to stab Moyo.

The stabbing incident is just one example of the many cases of domestic violence that occur in Zimbabwe. According to a 2019 study by the Zimbabwe Womens Resource Centre Network, one in three women in Zimbabwe has experienced some form of domestic violence.

The study also found that women are more likely to be victims of domestic violence if they are unemployed, have low levels of education, or live in rural areas.

The Zimbabwean government has taken steps to address domestic violence, including enacting the Domestic Violence Act. This Act provides for the protection of victims of domestic violence and the prosecution of perpetrators.

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Air New Zealand DROPS absurd Net Zero 2030 climate goal

Air New Zealand (Air NZ) has dropped its absurd Net Zero climate goal , which it originally sought to accomplish by 2030. The flag carrier for New Zealand abandoned this goal on July 30

According to the airline, delivery delays of fuel-efficient aircraft and the affordability of alternative jet fuels prompted it to reexamine its decarbonization goals. In a statement, Air NZ CEO Greg Foran pointed out that potential delays to the airline's fleet renewal plan pose an additional risk to the target's achievability.

"It is possible the airline may need to retain its existing fleet for longer than planned due to global manufacturing and supply chain issues that could potentially slow the introduction of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft into the fleet," Foran said. "As such, and given so many levers needed to meet the target are outside our control, the decision has been made to retract the 2030 target." (Related: Air New Zealand first major airline to abandon impractical climate goals, citing lack of realistic solutions.)

Previously, Air NZ had said its 2030 target was to reduce carbon intensity by 28.9 percent compared with 2019 levels. But on July 30, the airline said work on a new near-term target has begun.

Meanwhile, Air NZ Chairwoman Therese Walsh said the airline remains committed to reaching its 2050 Net Zero carbon emissions target.

"Our work to transition away from fossil fuels continues, as does our advocacy for the global and domestic regulatory and policy settings that will help facilitate Air NZ, and the wider aviation system in New Zealand, to do its part to mitigate climate change risks," she remarked.

Air NZ also withdraws from UN-backed climate group

Aside from abandoning its 2030 climate targets, Air NZ also confirmed its intention to immediately pulled out from the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTI) network. SBTI is a United Nations-backed climate action group that seeks to help firms reduce their emissions in adherence to the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement.

Aviation is widely regarded as one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize. It was estimated to account for two percent of global energy-related carbon emissions in 2022.

According to the International Energy Agency, technical measures related to low-emission fuels, improvements in engines and airframes, and demand-restraint solutions would all be needed to curb growth in emissions in aviation.

However, one cannot help but notice that Net Zero targets are aimed at companies that offer services to regular people. It appears that the globalist elites and their tools are exempt from these climate goals.

Clear examples of these are pop star Taylor Swift and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. Both of them travel around the world in their private jets with a huge carbon footprint, but justify this practice by saying that their advocacy to make people aware of climate change offsets their carbon contributions.

Ultimately, it boils down to a case of "stringent Net Zero goals for thee, but not for me."

Head over to ClimateAlarmism.news for similar stories.

Watch climate alarmism critic Paul Burgess exposing that Net Zero is a lie in the clip below.

This video is from the Be Children of Light channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

The Highwire with Del Bigtree: Net Zero is a deliberate attack on global food supply.

Net Zero means NO FLYING at all by 2050, says British mathematician Norman Fenton.

Net Zero policies will leave half the worlds population with nothing to eat, researchers warn.

Sources include:

ClimateDepot.com

CNBC.com

Brighteon.com
The energy transition aint happening: Green economy in retreat

As mentioned in my recent post from July 20 , there are many data points gradually accumulating as to the lack of progress toward the so-called green economy. It has long been clear to people who think about it that the energy transition to net zero is a fantasy that will not occur. But the question remains of exactly how the mania will come to an end. Will the net zero fantasies of the climate cultists proceed at full speed until they crash into a wall of physical reality (e.g., blackouts)? Or instead will these fantasies gradually retreat as governments respond to voter pressure over costs and convenience, and as investors pull back as it becomes clear that projects cannot succeed financially?

(Article by Francis Menton republished from ManhattanContrarian.com)

A July 30 piece from John Miltimore of the American Institute for Economic Research supports the second alternative. The title is Why the Green Economy Is Suddenly in Retreatin EU, US, and on Wall Street. Meanwhile New York, at least for the moment, remains hell-bent on moving toward a full-on crash.

Miltimores piece collects data from multiple sources  notably the recent EU elections, EU regulatory changes, and actions of major U.S. investors. The most significant item in the piece relates to the withdrawal of several of the largest U.S. fund managers from something called Climate Action 100+. Climate Action 100+ describes itself as an investor-led initiative to ensure the worlds largest corporate greenhouse gas emitters take appropriate action on climate change in order to mitigate financial risk and to maximize the long-term value of assets. But it seems that in recent months some of the biggest investors have decided to change strategy. J.P. Morgan Chase and State Street have pulled all funds from Climate Action 100+ commitments, while their even larger colleague Black Rock reduced its holdings and scaled back its ties to the group. Miltimore cites a New York Times article from February quantifying the various withdrawals: All told, the moves amount to a nearly $14 trillion exit from an organization meant to marshal Wall Streets clout to expand the climate agenda. $14 trillion is a big number in anybodys book.

On the European front, Miltimore cites the results of the EU parliamentary elections in June together with various regulatory roll-backs both before and after those elections. He (fairly) describes the parliamentary election results as a greenlash against various Green parties, and particularly notes the disastrous result for the German Greens: In Germany, the core country of the European green movement, support for the Greens plunged from 20.5 percent in 2019 to 12 percent. He then collects a list of various climate-related regulatory initiatives that have either stalled or gotten rescinded in the EU, including: new restrictions on the use of pesticides; proposed bans on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances); restrictions on new industrial emission, (which ended up getting relaxed on industries and tweaked to exclude cattle farms altogether); and a new deforestation law. Meanwhile, efforts in various countries to ban combustion vehicles, restrict heating of swimming pools, and require electric heating of homes have led to serious popular push-back (if not yet to rescission of the regulations).

My comment is that much of Europe  particularly the UK and Germany  has already gone past the point where further significant emissions reductions can be achieved at reasonable cost. Further efforts to increase the percentage of renewables in electricity generation will lead to rapidly accelerating price increases. A reckoning can only be avoided by politicians backing off existing mandates.

New York remains well behind Europe in actually implementing the energy transition fantasy. Our Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, mandating the transition, was enacted in 2019, with the first significant deadline (70% of electricity generation from renewables) set for 2030. In 2019, 2030 seemed so far away. Now in 2024 we are at a point where, to meet the deadline, most to all of the facilities needed to achieve the 70 by 30 target would have to be under construction; but almost none of them are.

My July 26 post featured a Report that I co-authored that warns New Yorkers not to convert to electric heat until the politicians show that they have a credible plan to provide the necessary electricity. Even as my co-authors and I were writing that Report, our Public Service Commission was putting together its own Report (the Clean Energy Standard Biennial Review) (Item 30 on this PSC Docket). Here is a summary from PBS. Key quote:

New York is expected to ramp up renewable energy production in the coming years, but its unlikely to meet a key climate target, according to an official review released last week. The states climate law, passed in 2019, mandates that New York obtain 70% of its electricity from renewable sources like wind and solar by 2030, which would significantly help curb the states climate-warming emissions. However, New York will likely have generated only enough renewable energy to meet around 45% of its electricity needs by the end of the decade, falling far short of its commitment, according to the review by the Department of Public Service and the state energy authority.

Even the 45% figure cited there is a fantasy, and consists mostly of a power plant at Niagara Falls that pre-existed all of this energy transition claptrap. So far all of our politicians are in a state of denial. The only slight concession to reality is some talk of maybe postponing the 2030 deadline a few years, such as to 2033. The fact is that they will be no closer to meeting the 70% target in 2033 than they will be in 2030, and in fact it will never be met because (as pointed out in my Report) they need dispatchable emissions free resources that dont exist and wont exist.

So at least for now New York is racing forward to try to crash into the wall of reality at full speed.

Read more at: ManhattanContrarian.com
High-profile Jewish rabbi claims Trump is a messiah appointed by God to serve Israel

A high-profile Jewish rabbi has claimed that former president Donald Trump was anointed as a non-Jewish messiah by God to serve the state of Israel.

Rabbi Isser Zalman Weisberg of Toronto, Canada, has made the bold claim as it looks increasingly likely that Trump will support Israel as it continues its genocidal mission in Gaza.

Pastor and author Chuck Baldwin recently analyzed the rabbis words, and there is a lot to unpack here.

The rabbi cites multiple reasons he is convinced that Trump is a non-Jewish messiah who will serve the Jewish people. One is the fact that his right ear was grazed by a bullet in a recent assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, which he likens to a passage in the Torah stating that a servant who wants to remain with his master needs to have his right ear pierced.

He also claimed that the final deadline for the redemption is a Jewish year that corresponds to October of 2027, which would take place during Trumps tenure if he were reelected president.

He asserted: And I have good reason to believe Donald Trump was chosen to be the one to redeem the sins of Azof through offering his assistance in rebuilding the holy temple on the Temple Mount and establishing the Jewish kingdom over all of mankind in Jerusalem.

The rabbi went on to say that while Trump may take steps to protect the U.S.s borders and improve its economy, America will be great when the messiah comes. And the leader of this country, on behalf of all the good people in this country, will humbly present himself to the Jewish messiah and ask him to accept the United States of America into a new alliance of countries who accept the leadership of the messiah.

The rhetoric becomes even more frightening when he suggests that Trump will rid the world of the enemies of the Jews.

I believe this man was chosen to be the one to represent Western society in greeting the Messiah in Jerusalem, chosen to bow his head in humility to messiah, and to offer Americas complete, unconditional assistance to completely eradicate all of the enemies of the Jews and of God and in the establishment of the eternal kingdom of the messiah, he said.

In other words, the rabbi envisions a world that has been taken over by Zionists, with Trump ushering the U.S. into a world dominated by Israel and supporting the Jewish state in its quest the conquer the Middle East and eventually the world at large.

Trump vowed to help Israel at recent campaign event

Baldwin pointed out that Jewish rabbis are possibly the only types of religious leaders who can get away with making these types of statements. He added that the real concern here, however, is the fact that millions of Christians also buy into the rabbis belief and view America as a country that exists to protect Israel and help it fight its battles.

Evangelicals have almost totally forgotten that the motto of Americas War for Independence was We Recognize No Sovereign But God, And No King But Jesus. They are enthusiastically trading a nation that was built upon the principles of Christianity and Gods Natural Laws (these United States) and are turning it over to the spirit of antichrist, he added.

At a recent campaign event in New Jersey, Trump vowed to help Israel win the war it is waging against Hamas if he wins the election, making statements like No president has ever been so good to Israel by far as I have and Were going to save Israel.

Sources for this article include:

ChuckBaldwinLive.com

JewishInsider.com
Sen. Johnson: FBI CANT BE TRUSTED on Trump assassination probe

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) has warned that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) cannot be trusted when it comes to the probe on the July 13 assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

"What am I missing? You know, I do not trust the FBI [to] do this investigation, honestly," he said during an appearance on Fox News. The senator pertained to testimony given by FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate on July 30. According to Abbate, the bureau has discovered past comments by Trump's would be assassin Thomas Matthew Crooks on social media that reflected "anti-immigration" sentiments.

"Some of these comments, if ultimately attributable to the shooter, appear to reflect anti-Semitic and anti-immigration themes to espouse political violence and are described as extreme in nature," said the FBI deputy director.

"I caught that contradiction as well," remarked Johnson, who chairs the Senate committee in charge of probing the Trump assassination attempt. "I thought I heard him say, initially, anti-immigrant, and then you said another one was pro-immigrant."

"That's the reason I asked the question at the very end of my questioning. They say they're investigating this as an assassination attempt and also as domestic terrorism. It was obviously an assassination attempt. Why are you classifying [it] as domestic terrorism?"

According to Johnson, he is concerned over the Biden administration accusing "half of America being potential domestic terrorists." He pointed to Abbate's testimony about Crooks' posts being anti-immigrant, which points to the FBI "trying to paint this as a MAGA [Make America Great Again] Republican trying to take out  the MAGA president."

"It makes no sense whatsoever, but that's why you can't trust the FBI," the senator for the Badger State ultimately concluded. Johnson had earlier slammed both the FBI and the Secret Service, noting that the American people to "rely on other sources" to find out what actually happened.

Torba: FBI claims INCONSISTENT with Crooks' alleged posts

According to Modernity News, Johnson has floated the idea that Crooks wasn't the only shooter during Trump's July 13 campaign rally at Butler, Pennsylvania. He has also exposed the lapses of the Secret Service during the rally.

The senator found that the Secret Service didn't attend a security briefing on the morning of the rally, which local SWAT and sniper teams attended. Moreover, he disclosed that there was a lack of communication between the Secret Service and local law enforcement officers.

Meanwhile, Gab founder Andrew Torba said the FBI's claim of Crooks' posts being "anti-immigrant" is inconsistent with what he saw on the platform. In contrast, posts from the 20-year-old shooter's account appeared to be pro-immigration.

"The story is this: The account [owned by Crooks]  was, unequivocally, pro-Biden and in particular pro-Biden's immigration policy," he wrote on X. "To the best of Gab's knowledge, as of 2021, Crooks was a pro-lockdown, pro-immigration, left-wing Joe Biden supporter." (Related: Andrew Torba: Suspected Gab account of Trump shooter contains pro-Biden posts.)

Torba also noted that Gab's disclosure of the content in Crooks' account was in line with an emergency disclosure request sent by the FBI. To back up his claim, the founder of the alternative social media platform posted the first page of the said request with the pertinent information redacted.

"Many, particularly regime media reporters, have doubted Gab's claims that this request existed. Normally we don't confirm the existence or content of law enforcement communications. In this instance we had to make an exception due to the overwhelming public interest in disclosure and transparency."

Head over to FBICorruption.news for more stories about the FBI.

Watch Sen. Ron Johnson grilling Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe on his agency's lapses during the Trump assassination attempt below.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Individual who visited Thomas Crooks' home and workplace also visited Washington, D.C., building near FBI office in June 2023, newly acquired cell phone data shows.

Sen. Johnson now openly questioning the "lone gunman" claim pushed by the Secret Service and FBI.

FBI Director Wray reveals Trump shooter apparently researched JFK assassination.

Sources include:

Modernity.news

X.com

Brighteon.com
Living near pesticide-spraying farms is equally carcinogenic as SMOKING

A shocking new study published in the journal Frontiers in Cancer Control and Society reveals that individuals living in U.S. agricultural communities where pesticides are sprayed face a cancer risk comparable to that of smokers. This new research highlights the significant health risks posed by agricultural chemicals even to people who are not directly involved in farming. This research has significant implications for young, developing children living in rural communities.

Smoking is a habit that is chosen later in life. Children may be subjected to a similar level of carcinogens much earlier in life, and its not their choice to be subjected to these toxins. These agricultural chemicals are one of the driving forces behind the chronic disease epidemic plaguing U.S. children.

Increasing pesticide exposure correlated with increases in various cancer types, including leukemia

The study, conducted by a team of researchers from Rocky Vista University, analyzed cancer incidence data from nearly every county in the U.S. and compared it to federal data on agricultural pesticide use. The study's authors analyzed data from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for 69 pesticides and cross-referenced this with cancer data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The research uncovered a higher risk of cancer in areas with extensive pesticide use, contradicting initial assumptions that only direct exposure would significantly affect cancer rates.

Instead, the findings indicate a troubling correlation: the higher the pesticide usage, the higher the risk of developing various types of cancer, including leukemia, bladder, colon, lung, non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL) and pancreatic cancer.

"Agricultural pesticide usage has a significant impact on all the cancer types evaluated in this study," the authors state, noting that these associations are especially pronounced in regions with high agricultural productivity. The study's authors emphasize that pesticide-related cancer risks are on par with those associated with smoking cigarettes, which contain at least 70 different carcinogens.

Dana Barr, an environmental health researcher at Emory University not involved in the study, expressed concern about current U.S. pesticide regulations. "Right now, I dont think the regulations for pesticides are the most health-protective," Barr said. "We need policy reform that puts the onus on the manufacturers to do a better job of evaluating safety before allowing new registrations."

Cancer risks highest in Midwest, correlated with dicamba- and glyphosate-based weedkillers

Isain Zapata, an associate professor at Rocky Vista University and one of the studys authors, expressed surprise at the findings. "We naively thought some of the cancer rates would not be affected," he said. "But it doesnt affect only people that are exposed directly while working with pesticides."

Zapata and his team used statistical analysis to map patterns of pesticide use and their correlation with cancer rates, finding the highest risks in states known for large-scale corn production, such as Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, Missouri, Indiana and Ohio.

The researchers also identified specific chemicals that contributed significantly to cancer risks. For example, chlorpyrifos, paraquat and atrazine are all linked to kidney cancer and endocrine disruption. Organophosphates are linked to fertility decline in men. Glyphosate, the widely-used herbicide and the active ingredient in Roundup, has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and has since been associated with increased risks for several types of cancer. In a 2020 NIH study, dicamba was linked to higher risks of colon and pancreatic cancer. In February, a federal judge banned dicamba-based weedkillers produced by major manufacturers, ruling that the EPA had unlawfully permitted their use.

Despite these regulatory actions, the new study highlights a broader, nationwide issue with pesticide use and its health impacts. The entire agricultural system in the United States desperately needs to be reconfigured and weaned from widespread use of cancer-causing pesticides and herbicides. The cancer epidemic can only be addressed if the pesticide manufacturers are prosecuted -- their carcinogens replaced with formulas and methods that are non-toxic. Setting up new regulatory frameworks that permit the use of these chemicals at smaller doses only gives these companies more power to slowly kill us off. New regulations will make these poisoners and polluters appear restrained, but they will continue to profit from human suffering.

Sources include:

FrontiersIn.org

MDPI.com

Pesticides.news

Science.NaturalNews.com

Academic.oup.com
Missouri AG opens investigation into gym for allowing biological male to use womens private spaces

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has initiated an investigation into Life Time Fitness in Ellisville after constituents notified him that the gym was allowing a biological male to use spaces reserved for women and girls.

"BREAKING: I have launched an investigation into Life Time Fitness for allowing a biological male into womens locker rooms. The gym faces potential criminal AND civil liability for putting Missouris women and girls in harms way. I am issuing subpoenas," Bailey wrote in a post on his X account.

Bailey said he immediately put the gym on notice that they face both possible criminal and civil liability for placing women and girls in harms way.

"It has come to my attention that Life Time Fitness has proudly adopted a policy that permits biological men to use locker rooms designated specifically for women and young girls," Bailey said in the notice of investigation.

"Even more concerning is the fact that instead of taking the safety concerns from your gym members seriously, you rudely correct them and insist they call this biological male by the 'correct pronouns,'" Bailey continued. "While it might be considered fashionable in certain corporate boardrooms to pretend that biology is irrelevant, the American heartland still lives in reality."

Bailey went on to say that "Missourians recognize that allowing adult men to openly invade and disrobe in spaces set aside for women and young girls is indefensible and places political correctness above public safety. That is why I am putting you on notice that you are under investigation."

"If you insist on endangering women and young girls in our state, in open defiance of the law, be assured you will face the consequences," Bailey warned.

The individual in question joined the gym on July 28. By Aug. 2, Republican State Rep. Justin Sparks had begun holding press conferences outside the gym and gathering protesters to denounce the fitness center.

Life Time spokesperson Natalie Bushaw said gym personnel asked for a copy of the individual's driver's license, which identified the person as female.

Bushaw told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that a woman approached her in the sauna on July 29, and said she was a man and that she did not belong there.

"The Missouri Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex. Therefore, the member is to use Life Time's women's locker room," Bushaw declared in a statement. (Related: WOKE CULT: CVS tells employees to use whatever restroom or locker room "that is appropriate to the gender they identify with"  and other woke insanities.)

Missouri has no law about transgender people's access to public restrooms

Missouri has not legislated a law about transgender people's access to public restrooms, and the state's attorney general has restricted authority to push criminal charges which is usually left to local prosecutors.

Bailey mentioned a 2015 Missouri appeals court ruling against a man convicted of misdemeanor trespassing in a women's gas station restroom.

The man in that case hid in a women's gas station bathroom and smoked cigarettes for hours. He did not claim to be a woman or transgender, but he tried to disguise his voice when an employee requested him to stop smoking.

"Appellant responded that he had to defecate 'really bad,'" the ruling stated. He was holding a lotion and a pornographic magazine.

As for the Life Time Fitness case, Ellisville police said the agency is not investigating possible trespassing because the private gym granted the member permission to use the women's locker room.

It is uncertain if property owners can be prosecuted under Missouri law for permitting trespassing on their property.

Follow Transhumanism.news for more stories about transgender issues.

Watch the video below about NCAA champ Riley Gaines calling out President Joe Biden for pushing biological male trans athletes into women's locker rooms.

This video is from the Puretrauma357 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Transgender coach David "Sasha" Yates joins Pennsylvania high school GIRLS in locker room to change.

Trudeau govt to make all bathrooms in Parliament buildings GENDER NEUTRAL.

Vermont high school blocks members of girls volleyball team from their own locker room after they complained about presence of trans student.

Sources include:

NewsTalkKZRG.com

X.com

APNews.com

Brighteon.com
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu calls for U.S.-Israel alliance to combat Iranian threat

While other leaders across the globe are calling for a ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is suggesting that a military alliance between Israel and the U.S. could end the "Iranian threat."

In his recent address to the U.S. Congress, Netanyahu said Israel and America should form a security alliance to defeat Iran, with this military alliance taking on a similar form to America's partnership with Europe that helped defeat the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

"Now here's my vision for the broader Middle East, it's also shaped in part by what we saw in the aftermath of World War II, after that war, America forged a security alliance in Europe to counter the growing Soviet threat," claimed Netanyahu.

The Israeli prime minister added that the countries at peace with Israel and other countries that "will make peace with Israel" can join the Israel-U.S. alliance.

Netanyahu, who vehemently opposes a two-state solution to peace between Israel and Palestine, told lawmakers that Israel should be given free rein to maintain "security control" over Gaza for "the foreseeable future." (Related: Netanyahu government linked to Jewish religious movement pushing extremist doctrines.)

He insisted that Israel does not want to resettle Israelis in Gaza, but insisted that his country should have overriding security control over the region to "prevent the resurgence of terror" and to make sure that Gaza will never again pose "a threat to Israel."

Netanyahu deflects criticisms by insisting that Israel's survival is at risk

The address to Congress comes two months after Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC), declared that he was seeking an arrest warrant for Netanyahu.

Concerns about Netanyahu's potential arrest were recently brought up as the Israeli Justice Ministry allegedly worried that an advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) would legitimize efforts to detain him while he was traveling abroad.

Netanyahu also discussed the ICC dilemma, cautioning in his speech at the U.S. Capitol building that should the ICC attempt to suppress Israel, the U.S. would be its next target.

Additionally, Netanyahu thanked those who "forcefully opposed the false accusations of the [International Criminal Court] and stood up for the truth." He claimed that the lies are "not only libels, they're downright dangerous."

Netanyahu also claimed that the ICC is trying to hinder Israel from protecting itself against various threats. He deflected criticisms against Israel concerning its violent and destructive actions in Gaza and the West Bank by insisting that the Israeli state's survival is at risk.

And even though Netanyahu did not directly condemn President Joe Biden, he talked about protesters who gathered on college campuses.

Aside from claiming that protesters had "poor knowledge" of the Middle East, Netanyahu said they were acting as "Iran's useful idiots." He also claimed that the surge in "anti-Israel protests in America" was funded by Iran.

Outside the Capitol, police used pepper spray and arrested several demonstrators who joined the protest condemning Netanyahu's appearance, which started at the U.S. Capitol and continued as many participants moved to nearby Union Station.

Go to IsraelCollapse.com for more stories about the Israel-Palestine war.

Watch this clip about Netanyahu's plan to rule over the world.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Biden administration considering direct negotiations with Hamas for release of remaining American hostages if current talks with Israel fail.

IDF admits that Hamas CANT BE DESTROYED.

Hamas rejects U.S. ceasefire proposal; will accept nothing less than a PERMANENT END to the war.

Israel's military is beginning to question Netanyahu's "impossible" goals in Gaza.

Sources include:

SputnikGlobe.com

Brighteon.com
 Tenure is gone. UF 1/5  tenure  UF 
PATRIOT FRONT is just the FBI in disguise: Heres the proof

Just as many suspected was the case, the "white nationalist hate group" (to quote the Southern Poverty Law Center) Patriot Front is nothing more than a front group for the FBI to inject federal agents into right-wing affairs.

A newly unearthed trove of declassified, though highly redacted, documents confirms that the FBI has been tied at the hip to Patriot Front for many years. An extensive 950 pages' worth of evidence shows that the FBI has been placing key federal assets deep within Patriot Front to infiltrate and ultimately overthrow the conservative movement.

For quite a while, the FBI has been embedding undercover assets and confidential human sources within Patriot Front's organizational layers. And yet the only confirmed and documented crimes committed by the group are illegally placing posters on public and private property.

The 950 pages' worth of revelations documenting all of this are available in two packages: Here is the first and here is the second.

(Related: Be sure to check out our earlier report explaining in more detail how Patriot Front is a rather obvious government psy-op.)

The Patriot Front honeypot

For all the bad press it gets, Patriot Front seems to have some kind of special protection for its members, including front man and founder Thomas Ryan Rousseau who avoided criminal convictions thanks to the FBI blocking them.

Rousseau's recruitment efforts targeted otherwise peaceful young men with a patriotic bent, using Patriot Front as a type of honeypot to confuse the well-meaning into joining a government front group.

"Rousseau periodically leads his group on well-organized marches across the country," wrote @amuse in an article posted to X. "Each event features 100-250 fit, disciplined men in matching khaki pants and blue shirts, all masked except Rousseau. They carry shields and flags, marching with military precision. Notably, there are never counter-protesters like Antifa or Black Bloc, who often target less organized groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys."

"Additionally, local law enforcement always protects them. Why did Rousseau's Patriot Front miss the January 6th protests, the so-called Super Bowl of right-wing protests?"

Patriot Front was involved in the infamous 2022 North Idaho gay pride event disruption, which resulted in local law enforcement detaining the 35 recruits brought in by Rousseau to participate, as well as 70 of the active members who were also present.

All of the men were masked except for Rousseau, and all of them were allowed to keep their masks on while being detained. Many of them were also allowed to keep their backpacks.

In the end, local police in North Idaho charged Rousseau and 30 of the recruits with conspiracy to riot, though the 70 members were allowed to leave  why?

"Why were four U-Haul passengers released, and why were the 70 others allowed to go?" @amuse asked, noting that most of the recruits who were charged pleaded guilty to conspiracy or lesser charges.

Prosecutors ran into problems, though, after the FBI refused to cooperate with them, withholding crucial evidence against Rousseau. This resulted in Judge John Cafferty dismissing Rousseau's case entirely.

"Given the evidence, it is clear that Thomas Ryan Rousseau is either an asset for the FBI/HSI (in some capacity) or an unwitting patsy used by the federal government to operate a honeypot aimed at entrapping individuals with extremist racist ideologies," @amuse says.

On X, many are now calling for the FBI to be dismantled. Clearly there is something amiss with the way the agency operates, including how it entraps young conservative men into participating in its psychological operations.

Public trust in the FBI is plummeting, and for good reason. Learn more at FBI.news.

Sources for this article include:

X.com (1)

Vault.fbi.gov (1)

Vault.fbi.gov (2)

NaturalNews.com

X.com (2)
Pope Francis visits nun who brings transgender individuals to the Vatican for papal audiences

Pope Francis has made an unannounced visit to a French Catholic nun who often brings transgender individuals to the Vatican for papal audiences.

The Holy See Press Office confirmed the July 31 visit in a statement issued on the same day. According to the statement, the pontiff met with Sister Genevieve Jeanningros, a member of the Little Sisters of Jesus. Jeanningros has lived among the circus performers in a trailer park in Rome's coastal Ostia town for more than 50 years, and her ministry involves work with circus groups, homeless people and transgender individuals.

The pope reportedly arrived in Ostia in the afternoon of July 31, meeting with the nun and blessing and greeting families and children. Footage of the visit shared by Vatican News on social media showed the pontiff alongside Jeanningros, warmly interacting with the community. The circus performers Jeanningros ministers to also put on a show during the event, which the pope enjoyed.

Jeanningros, who has maintained a long-standing friendship with the pope, frequently brings groups of transgender individuals to the Vatican for weekly papal audiences. One such group hails from the coastal town of Torvaianica, located near Ostia. The Torvaianica group, which is composed mostly of sex workers, was formed during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic when restrictions left them without income.

The group gained the pope's attention after writing to him about their financial struggles. The pontiff responded by directing Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, his almoner (a priest or church officer in charge of distributing tithes to those who need them the most), to provide the group with financial assistance.

In 2022, Jeanningros brought a group of transgender women to thank the pope for his support during the pandemic. Recently, she brought groups of homosexuals and transgender individuals from Torvaiacina to meet the pope twice in June.

Pope Francis used homophobic slur in closed-door meeting

According to LifeSiteNews, Pope Francis had told Sister Jeannine Gramick last fall that "transgender people must be accepted and integrated into society." The pontiff's comments to Gramick, a pro-LGBT nun and a member of the Sisters of Loreto, followed a luncheon last November held to commemorate the World Day of the Poor that featured transgender sex workers. (Related: Pope Francis parties with transgender prostitutes in the Vatican to commemorate 'World Day of the Poor.')

"I think in the long run, Pope Francis is laying the groundwork for change in sexuality," Gramick later remarked.

The July 31 visit came months after the pontiff apologized for using a homophobic slur. In May, Italian media reported that Pope Francis used the Italian term "frociaggine," roughly translating to "faggotness" or "faggotry," while speaking to Italian bishops in a closed-door meeting. The head of the Catholic Church reportedly uttered the term during the May 20 meeting to reiterate his opposition to accepting gays into priesthood.

On May 28, the Vatican clarified that Pope Francis did not intend to use homophobic language. "The pope never intended to offend or express himself in homophobic terms, and he apologized to those who felt offended by the use of a term reported by others," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in an emailed statement.

Head over to Transhumanism.news for more stories about transgender individuals.

Watch LifeSiteNews founder John-Henry Westen discussing Pope Francis' new guidance on blessing same-sex couples below.

This video is from the Rick Langley channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Pope Francis allows priests to bless same-sex couples  as long as it doesnt resemble an actual marriage ceremony.

Pope Francis American cardinals are pro-LGBT revolutionaries with a radical agenda for the Church.

False prophet? Pope Francis hosts bizarre drag queen-like circus performance in creepy reptilian-shaped Vatican Hall.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

Reuters.com 1

Reuters.com 2

Brighteon.com
Ransomware attack on blood bank forces hundreds of hospitals in southeastern U.S. to activate blood shortage protocols

OneBlood, a prominent non-profit blood donation center in Florida that serves hundreds of hospitals in the southeastern United States, has been targeted by a ransomware attack . Despite the attack, the organization continues to collect, test and distribute blood but at a "significantly reduced capacity."

To address the disruptions, the blood bank adopted "manual processes and procedures to remain operational. However, these manual methods "take significantly longer to perform and impact inventory availability," as explained by Susan Forbes, OneBlood's senior vice president of Corporate Communications and Public Relations.

In an effort to manage the blood supply, the more than 250 hospitals served by OneBlood were forced to activate their critical blood shortage protocols.

OneBlood is figuring out the full extent of the cyber attack and what effect it has had on the organization's data centers. As of press time, it is still not certain if customers' personal information  such as test results, medical histories and blood types  have been compromised. (Related: HACKING THE HACKERS: FBI, law enforcement agencies from 11 other countries shut down ransomware websites of notorious cybercriminal group.)

The attack on OneBlood is just the latest in a series of data breaches affecting the health care sector. Recently, a data breach of Kaiser Permanente is estimated to have affected roughly 13.4 million individuals, and a June report by data security firm SecurityScorecard warned that 34 percent of third-party data breaches in the U.S. in 2023 targeted health care organizations, far "outpacing every other sector."

Ransomware attack could affect health of thousands of patients in the United States

OneBlood provides safe, available and affordable whole blood, platelets and other blood products to hundreds of hospitals across Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The loss of OneBlood's services could affect the health of thousands of patients across the Southeastern United States.

"The blood supply cannot be taken for granted," said Forbes. "The situation we are dealing with is ongoing. If you are eligible to donate, we urge you to please make an appointment to donate as soon as possible."

The situation has become increasingly precarious for OneBlood amid the onset of Hurricane Debby, at a time when OneBlood needs to expedite its processes.

"Manual processes take longer to perform," said Forbes. "We felt the impact of this the most when it came to labeling blood for release to hospitals."

"Blood drives are taking place, our donor centers have remained open, and we continue to see a tremendous response from OneBlood donors answering the call for blood donations," said Forbes.

The organization added that there is an urgent need for O positive, O negative and platelet donations. OneBlood has received significant aid from other blood centers across the country led by the Association for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies Task Force, which was formed to protect blood collection efforts in the event of natural disasters or acts of terrorism.

To aid in blood collection efforts, OneBlood's 81 blood donation centers in 30 Florida counties are open to accept walk-ins, and the organization's more than 250 "Big Red Buses" have been deployed across the state. These buses can often be seen at grocery store and shopping center parking lots, offering coupons, T-shirts and other merchandise to people willing to donate blood and platelets.

Visit Glitch.news for more similar stories.

Watch this video about OneBlood getting hit by ransomware attack, impacting its software systems.

This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.

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Ransomware attack on DOLE causes SHORTAGE of salad in groceries.

Was the FAAs nationwide ground stop on flights last week the work of ransomware hackers?

Global cybercrime kingpin BUSTED in crackdown involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

Yahoo.com

Brighteon.com
U.S. on high alert as Irans proxies threaten retaliation following Israeli strikes

Washington is closely monitoring the potential for coordinated attacks on Israel by Iran's proxies from Yemen, Iraq and Lebanon, a U.S. official informed Middle East Eye (MEE). It is also analyzing signals intelligence and conducting cryptographic analysis to understand the organization and intentions of these groups.

"Iran's proxies are expected to play a more significant role in retaliation than in Aprils attack," the official told MEE. "We could face a more unpredictable situation with secondary impacts for U.S. allies."

Recent Israeli actions have intensified the situation. On July 30, Israel assassinated senior Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut and reportedly killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran at a location controlled by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

These strikes have embarrassed Iran and its regional allies. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah warned of inevitable retaliation, stating: "You do not know what red lines you crossed."

The Biden administration is drawing lessons from the April crisis, when Israels bombing of Iran's consulate in Damascus prompted a near-conflict situation.

The U.S., in collaboration with Jordan and the U.K., intercepted nearly all of the 300 missiles and drones Iran launched at Israel. This led to a limited Israeli response  a small drone strike on Isfahan.

"There was a sense of humiliation in Iran because the U.S. successfully thwarted the attack," Merissa Khurma, director of the Middle East program at the Wilson Center, told MEE. "There is now a focus on serious diplomacy to prevent a regional war."

Iran had warned the U.S.'s Gulf partners about a potential attack on Israel, aiding preparation efforts. (Related: Iranian analyst warns of harsher response to Haniyehs killing than previous strike on Israel.)

However, Tehran's response might have been undercooked. Nasrallah emphasized the need for a substantial response, not merely symbolic. "We are looking for a real response, not a performative response," he said.

The U.S.'s Arab Gulf allies were reluctant to actively participate in Israel's defense in April. The U.S. had to deploy fighter jets from Qatar and Saudi Arabia to intercept Iranian missiles and drones.

If Yemen's Houthis are involved in retaliation, it could further destabilize Saudi Arabia. The Houthis' drone strike on Israel in July led to an Israeli response and a subsequent easing of financial restrictions by Yemen's Saudi-backed government.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is working with Saudi, Omani and Qatari officials to prevent escalation and seek a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

A broader Iranian response might also engage the Popular Mobilization Forces, which were largely inactive during April's tensions but had previously attacked a U.S. base in Jordan, almost leading to a direct U.S.-Iran conflict.

Iran's supreme leader reportedly ordered a direct attack on Israel

The New York Times reported that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered a direct attack on Israel. Analysts and U.S. officials are concerned about the extent of Iran's direct involvement versus proxy actions.

"If Iran strikes Israel directly, Israel would likely respond on Iranian soil. Iran wants its proxies to bear the cost this time, which would be more acceptable to both Israel and the U.S.," IRGC expert Ali Alfoneh told MEE.

The U.S., a close ally of Israel, continues to provide intelligence and arms to support Israel's military efforts while also attempting to mediate a ceasefire. Nevertheless, Blinken distanced Washington. from the Haniyeh strike, saying: "This is something we were not aware of or involved in."

Recent Israeli strikes in Beirut and Tehran have strained perceptions of U.S. control over Israeli actions, complicating diplomatic efforts. Israeli attacks have even surprised Lebanese officials, with Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib commenting: "We were not expecting them to hit Beirut and they did."

Follow WWIII.news for more similar stories.

Watch this video discussing how Iran is poised to strike Israel.

This video is from The Appearance channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Ismail Haniyeh killing: Eight other times Israel was accused of assassinations in Iran.

Another world war unfolding after Israel "assassinates" Hamas chief in airstrike: "We have a duty to avenge him," vows Iran.

Iranian lawmaker claims Tehran already possesses nuclear bombs.

Sources include:

MiddleEastEye.net

Brighteon.com
Biden administration gave billions to ad group that targets conservatives for online censorship

The Biden administration has given billions of dollars to a group that seeks to censor conservatives on social media and shape what Americans read and hear in the news, according to a damning new report released by the Foundation for Freedom Online.

The Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) was established as an initiative of the World Federation of Advertisers, who are responsible for 90 percent of global ad spending, and American taxpayer dollars are making their way to the group though four top ad agencies. The first, Omnicom, boasts $5 billion worth of contracts with the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Air Force and Army, while IPG has more than $1.5 billion worth of contracts with the Department of Defense and the Department of Health and Human Services. WPP has made $455 million through work done for the Navy, while Publicis Groupe has more than $394 million in contracts with the Department of Health and Human Services.

GARM represents dozens of major corporations, including Walmart, Toyota, Coca-Cola and Disney, with its members spending nearly $1 trillion a year on ads. Its extensive censorship system was once described by a federal court as Orwellian, and attorney and legal professor Jonathan Turley noted: The sophistication of this system makes authoritarian regimes like Chinas and Irans look like mere amateurs in censorship and blacklisting.

House Judiciary Committee investigating GARM's censorship of conservatives

The U.S. House Judiciary Committee recently released a report of its own about GARM, demonstrating how they use their outsized control over internet ad revenue to pressure social media platforms such as Facebook to censor conservatives.

GARM also targeted Spotify, pressuring them to drop podcast host Joe Rogan over comments he made about vaccines, COVID-19 government policies and other opinions he shared that go against official Biden administration narratives. The group went after major Spotify advertisers, such as Coca-Cola, cautioning them that they were concerned about Rogans opinions.

They have also gone after conservative media more directly, attempting to push advertisers away from news sites such as the Daily Wire and Breitbart.

The committee has sent letters to dozens of major companies as part of an investigation into collusion between the ad cartel and the government. Some of the companies include Bayer, CVS, Chanel, General Motors, Adidas and BP. They have been instructed to preserve their documents and give the committee information about their activities with GARM.

The letter said the committee had evidence they were coordinating boycotts of disfavored news and media outlets, social media platforms and podcasts. It said that GARM has deviated far from its original intent, and has collectively used its immense market power to demonetize voices and viewpoints the group disagrees with.

The committee also has evidence that GARM directed members not to run ads on X after Elon Musk purchased it and stated his intention to relax content moderation policies and reinstate right-leaning voices who had previously been banned from the platform, such as former President Donald Trump. Musk has called GARM an advertising boycott racket and threatened them with legal action.

The committee is currently investigating whether the cabal is in violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Antitrust Act, which could lead to criminal or civil charges. An official referral could be made to the Justice Department depending on the results of their investigation.

The House committee report warned: For an organization reliant on speech and persuasion in advertising, GARM appears to have anti-democratic views of fundamental American freedoms.

Sources for this article include:

TheNationalPulse.com

NYPost.com
EXPOSED: Bidens FDA pushed dangerous puberty blockers on minors even though drugs increased risk of depression and suicidality

An email has come to light that exposes an even greater level of evil within the Biden regime than was previously believed.

The short of it is that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recommendation that underage children take puberty blockers for LGBT transitions, even though the agency knew full well that the drugs "increased risk of depression and suicidality" in minors.

Officially, the Biden regime does not even try to hide its support for minors taking LGBT pharmaceuticals in order to "become themselves." Their claim, though, is that these drugs are safe for children, which we now know to be untrue.

Not only is it untrue that puberty blockers are extremely dangerous for kids, but the FDA under Biden knew this when it issued its recommendation in support of them.

Shannon Sullivan, a "Clinical Team Leader" in the Division of General Endocrinology at the FDA, admitted this in a now-unearthed email, dated Jan. 25, 2022, to fellow FDA employee Theresa Kehoe.

Sullivan explained to Kehoe in the email that a safety review on the GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonist class of puberty blockers, which prevent the natural release of testosterone and estrogen in developing children, had been conducted in 2016 and 2017. The review found that this particular class of puberty-blocking drugs causes a host of serious health problems both in children and adults.

"The complaints were extensive and variable, and included fibromyalgia type symptoms, infertility, PCOS, and weight gain, among others," Sullivan wrote about the long-term effects of GnRH agonists in adults with histories of this type of drug use.

Since the review Sullivan referenced focused primarily on suicidal ideation, depression, seizures and bone health, she would go on to reveal that the effects of puberty blockers in young children are even worse.

"We did find increased risk of depression and suicidality, as well as increased seizure risk and we issued SLCs to the entire class for these AEs (added to W&P in 2017)."

Just one paragraph later, Sullivan reiterated the fact that puberty blockers are profoundly dangerous for children, but proceeds to recommend them anyway.

"... there is definitely a need for these drugs to be approved for gender transition," Sullivan wrote, adding that one of the many reasons for this is that puberty blockers "are typically not covered by insurance and are expensive out of pocket."

In other words, Sullivan's view seems to be that puberty blockers are admittedly dangerous but pre-pubescent children should definitely still get them with full approval from the FDA.

(Related: Did you know that during the Wuhan coronavirus [covid-19] "pandemic," Biden also ordered Amazon to hide all books critical of vaccines?)

Transgender abominations

Sullivan's email came to light thanks to the discovery process in a lawsuit filed by America First Legal (AFL), a conservative nonprofit group.

AFL initiated the lawsuit in response to the FDA illegally concealing records related to the off-label use of puberty blockers by transgenders. AFL filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to obtain these records.

When the FDA refused to comply by the legal deadline, AFL sued the federal agency. AFL senior adviser Ian Prior said that what the FDA is doing to children under Biden is nothing short of abominable.

"It is shocking and unacceptable that the FDA would admit that puberty blockers cause suicidal ideation and depression, yet in the same breath recommend their approval for transgender 'medical' procedures for children," he said.

"The advocates of these brutal practices on children claim that they are necessary to prevent suicide and depression, but in reality, the treatments themselves cause the very thing they claim they are trying to prevent. This barbarism has no place in a civilized society and it's time for the federal government to follow the lead of Europe in banning these experiments on children."

The World Professional Association for Transgender Health, which claims to be the world's premiere source for information about "gender-affirming care," admits in its own internal documents that the medical "treatments" children who want to become transgender under come with serious side effects like liver cancer and reduced or destroyed sexual function.

This class of drugs is so damaging to the body that it is also used to chemically castrate sex offenders. Yes, the same punishment delivered to society's most evil is now being used as "medicine" to transition mere babes into transgender abominations.

"Anybody with a functioning mind understands that government regulatory agencies are captured activists," wrote "Implicit Truths" (@CrayCrayBlocker) on X about not just the FDA but the entirety of Washington, D.C., and how it really operates behind the scenes.

Another pointed out that most of the pharmaceutical drugs marketed for children these days come with a high risk of depression and suicidality, almost like they want to destroy children with these poison "medicines."

"Investigate, prosecute, hold a trial, obtain a conviction, and set a punishment," added "Dangerous Thoughts" (@dangerousthinkg) to the X conversation. "No punishment is too severe for people who would knowingly mistreat children!"

Someone named Ted Poulos (@TedPoulos) addressed Shannon and the FDA directly, writing that they are "sick in the head and should immediately be prosecuted for deliberate malpractice and irreversible damage to children and adults with these pharma poisons and suicide ideation-production narcotics."

The sins of modern-day America, including the transgender push on children, are even worse than those of now-destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. Learn more at Evil.news.

Sources for this article include:

X.com

NaturalNews.com

DailySignal.com
Boost your chances of surviving a disaster with a 72-hour survival kit

Three days might not seem like a long time, but having a 72-hour survival kit can help you survive a disaster.

You need a this kit because when SHTF, you might have a hard time finding food, water and basic utilities for 72 hours. When dealing with an emergency, you might not have a way to heat food and you could also lose access to running water. (h/t to FrugalDebtFreeLife.com)

You can keep your supplies in a sturdy bucket if you prefer to bug in or stay at home, but if you think that there is a chance that you will need to bug out or evacuate, it's better to store your supplies in a backpack or duffel bag.

Food supplies list

When preparing food and snacks for your food kit, try to include a variety of items like nuts, fruits and snacks.

Below is a list of food supplies for your 72-hour survival kit:

Apple sauce pouches

Baby food pouches (if needed)

Baby formula and bottles (if needed)

Beef jerky/meat sticks

Canned chicken

Canned soup (with a pop-top lid)

Fruit cups

Granola bars

Instant coffee

Peanut butter

Peanut butter crackers

Plastic cutlery and paper plates (So you dont waste drinking water by doing the dishes)

Powdered coffee creamer

Shelf-stable milk

Yogurt raisins

Make sure you also include one gallon of water per person per day, and an extra gallon for a baby drinking formula if you have a baby with you. (Related: Prepping must-haves: Essential items to include in your survival stockpile.)

Hygiene supplies list

These items will help you maintain proper hygiene after SHTF:

Baby wipes

Bug spray

Diapers

Feminine supplies

Hairbrush

Hand sanitizer

Paper towels

Petroleum jelly (Can be used as lip balm or lotion)

Shampoo

Soap

Sunscreen

Toilet paper

Toothpaste and brushes

Assorted emergency supplies list

These supplies will help with different survival needs, such as comms and first aid.

Crank radio

Emergency blanket

First aid kit

Flashlights

Poncho

Small tool kit

Emergency documents binder/list

You will need these important documents if you have to evacuate during an emergency:

A photocopy of birth certificates

A photocopy of driver's license

A list of medications

Insurance policies

Cash (Enough for at least one weeks expenses)

Where to get lab-verified food supplies for your 72-hour survival kit

The Health Ranger Store is committed to helping you prepare for any emergency, especially if you want to prepare 72-hour survival kits for your whole family.

That's why were proud to introduce these items for your prepping needs.

Health Ranger Select Mini-Bucket Organic Almonds have a wholesome flavor and various nutrients that have earned these nuts their title as a superfood. Our premium almonds contain no sugar, chemical flavoring, hydrogenated oils, or added sodium and are not treated with preservatives.

Our almonds are imported from trusted vendors in Italy and are not fumigated with PPO. They are raw, unpasteurized and non-irradiated.

They are vegan, non-China, non-GMO and are certified organic and Kosher.

Mini-Bucket Organic Almonds are also meticulously lab-tested for heavy metals, microbiology and glyphosate to ensure that you get only the cleanest, high-quality almonds from trusted sources.

The Health Ranger Store is also thrilled to bring you our specialty Fair Trade coffee in a convenient and easy-to-prepare format.

With a much longer shelf life than regular coffee, Health Ranger Select Organic Freeze-Dried Instant Coffee delivers a bold and exquisite flavor of medium roast coffee that you can enjoy immediately. Just add hot water, stir, and your instant coffee is ready to drink.

Health Ranger Select Organic Freeze-Dried Instant Coffee is processed using organic coffee beans and is carefully freeze-dried to preserve optimal taste, aroma and nutrient content.

For a healthy snack while you're bugging out, try Health Ranger Select Freeze-Dried Organic Strawberry Pieces. This tasty snack can be enjoyed all year round.

With their crispy texture and natural abundance of vitamin C and other beneficial antioxidants and nutrients, our freeze-dried organic strawberry pieces can add a burst of flavor and nutrition to all your favorite pancakes, pies and baked goods.

They can also be eaten directly for a quick and healthy snack.

Health Ranger Select Freeze-Dried Organic Strawberry Pieces contain no gluten or GMOs and are certified Kosher and organic. Our premium strawberry pieces are also vegan, non-China and have been meticulously lab-tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbiology.

Go to Survival.news for more survival tips. You can also check out Health Ranger Store and Brighteon Store for your prepping needs.

Click on this link to learn how to make Raw Strawberry Cheesecake using Freeze-Dried Organic Strawberry Pieces.

Watch this clip on how to make 100 percent Organic Cold Brew Coffee at home.

This video is from the Health Ranger Store channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Survival 101: How to turn your car into a bug-out vehicle.

7 Useful tools women carry that every prepper needs.

Must-have items for your heatwave emergency kit.

Survival essentials: How to prepare an efficient fishing kit.

Sources include:

FrugalDebtFreeLife.com

HealthRangerStore.com 1

HealthRangerStore.com 2

HealthRangerStore.com 3

HealthRangerStore.com 4

HealthRangerStore.com 5

Brighteon.com
Politicians call for covid-style LOCKDOWNS to address unfolding civil war in immigration-torn Great Britain

The ongoing protests in the United Kingdom over the nation's unfettered illegal immigration problem could result in nationwide lockdowns similar in nature to those imposed during the Wuhan coronavirus (covid-19) "pandemic."

Great Britain plunged into protests and rioting after a knife attack in Southport left three children dead and at least 10 others injured. A 17-year-old named Axel Rudakubana, born to Rwandan parents, reportedly went crazy and started stabbing native Brits.

Rumors are circulating that Rudakubana is actually a Syrian migrant who arrived to England by boat, but either way he has become the poster child for Great Britain's migrant problem and what it is doing to the fabric of the country.

Angry Brits are gathering all across the land to make their voices heard in protest against the migrant invasion. Many are said to be setting fires and setting off fireworks, much like what happened during the Black Lives Matter (BLM) riots.

Richard Dearlove, the former head of the MI6 intelligence service, is claiming without evidence that Russia is responsible for the protests by falsely claiming that Rudakubana is a migrant. The Russian Embassy in London denies this, calling it "predictable gaslighting" from folks like Dearlove who are helping to destabilize "entire countries and regions, setting in motion unprecedented refugee flows."

(Related: Did you know that the "entire Resistance Axis" in the Middle East is planning to retaliate against Israel for assassinating a top Hamas leader?)

NATO responsible for Western refugee crisis

John Woodcock, Baron Walney, a former British member of Parliament (MP) and the UK government's advisor on political violence and disruption, told Times Radio that the time has come for England to once again experience covid-style lockdowns.

"I think the government and new ministers will understand the British public will back them in whatever measures they feel is necessary to get this situation under control," Walney commented, adding that the British public is sure to back such tyranny for the common good.

"Hopefully we can see this petering out now over the next few days and the extra effort which is being put on forces being able to have effect. But if that isn't the case, I think the British public will back further action from ministers in this emergency to get things under control."

As long as people fall for this crisis in the same way they fell for covid, Walney continued, the British government should have no problems doing whatever it wants in the name of "public health" and "public safety."

"Back in Covid, they were prepared to back measures that were needed in that situation and I think they would take a similar approach to keeping rioters off the streets now given the scale of damage that has been done to communities," Walney continued.

Members of a group called the "Muslim Defence League" are reportedly roving the streets of Great Britain in search of victims, particularly in the northern towns and cities. British police, meanwhile, are accused of "turning a blind eye" to these "grooming gangs," as they are calling them.

"First NATO starts the refugee crisis by destroying people's countries; then governments try to use the refugees as imported voters who will support them  and imported tenants (if they have money, or government backing) for the big landlords," wrote a commenter at RT about all this insanity.

"Now we're heading into a situation where some refugees are going to rise up against the host countries because of what the host countries have done to their native countries. For example, how are Ukrainian refugees going to act when they find out the truth about NATO's needless war and destruction of Ukraine?"

The latest news about the next round of lockdowns coming down the pike can be found at Chaos.news.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

Infowars.com

NaturalNews.com
FBI to resume meetings with social media companies, ignoring censorship concerns

Here we go again  another US election is coming up, and theres another push to find ways to censor disfavored voices, and one of those ways is the focus on the foreign malign influence (FMI) boogeyman.

(Article by Christina Maas republished from ReclaimTheNet.org)

Americans (and the world) have seen this play out already before and after the contested 2020 vote.

The infamous case of the suppression of the Hunter Biden laptop news story came after the FBI issued a warning to social media companies about an incoming FMI disinformation dump  from Russia.

We know how that went and was eventually debunked, the laptop being authentic, rather than a figment of some disinformation peddling operations imagination. But here is the FBI again, more than just emboldened by the recent Supreme Courts ruling in the Murthy v. Missouri case.

That decision lifted an injunction that banned the US government from colluding with Big Tech in order to promote censorship. Now the case is back in the lower courts, and in the meanwhile, mere months before the election, the legal hurdle to resume suspected collusion has been cleared.

And so the FBI will now resume regular meetings with social media companies, the pretext being finding ways to combat potential FMI threats. The Hunter Biden laptop scandal illustrates very well how the supposed hunt for FMI can go astray, straight into the political censorship territory.

But none of that seems to matter now, as the current White House presses on with the old practices. On July 12 this year, just after the Supreme Courts decision, Department of Justice (DOJ) Associate Deputy Attorney General George D. Turner penned a memo that shows the collusion never really stopped  even after last Octobers court injunction restricting this type of collaboration.

We obtained a copy of the memo for you here.

The memo reads that after this, the DOJ  always appropriately accounting for First Amendment considerations (wouldnt it be easier to say  without violating the First Amendment?)  began developing a standardized approach for sharing FMI information with social media companies.

Come February, and the FBI started using that standardized approach and actively sharing FMI threat information with social media companies on a continuing basis.

And now, on top of that, the FBI is free to resume regular meetings with social media companies.

Read more at: ReclaimTheNet.org
German states report SURGE in citizenship applications after leftist government relaxes rules for migrants

Several states in Germany have recorded an increase in citizenship applications after the leftist government in Berlin revised citizenship laws.

According to the National Pulse, the changes allow migrants who have lived in Germany for just five years to apply  shortening the old naturalization period that spanned eight years. A three-year option for citizenship can also be availed by those showing supposedly exceptional integration. Moreover, children born in Germany to foreign parents will automatically receive German citizenship if at least one parent has lived legally in Germany for over five years and has permanent residency.

Given these changes, the Pulse also shared several offices who reported surges in applications. The Berlin Immigration Office (LEA) reported receiving about 4,000 applications in June, averaging 133 per day. But by July 21, the LEA had already processed over 5,000 applications  with an average of around 200 per day.

Even the Bavarian Ministry of the Interior (STMI) reported this surge. According to the STMI, monthly citizenship applications in Germany's Bavaria state surged from an average of over 5,600 from January to May, to over 8,400 in June.

Other states saw similar increases  with Hesse seeing 3,300 naturalization applications in July, up from 2,600 the previous year. Hamburg showed a 76 percent increase, Bremen 41 percent and Schleswig-Holstein 38 percent.

"These increases come after at least 70,000 Syrians were granted citizenship in Germany last year, out of the total 200,100 people granted a German passport," the Pulse noted. Given these changes, it appears that Berlin seeks to change the country's electorate by replacing them with migrants.

Germany has seen migrant crime soar to the point that migrants are suspects in 58.5 percent of violent crimes, despite comprising only 14.6 percent of the population. Aside from this, over 60 percent of welfare recipients have a migration background. (Related: Report: Almost half of welfare recipients in Germany are MIGRANTS.)

Orban: MASS MIGRATION has transformed Germany for the worse

For Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Germany's issues are a lesson Hungarians could learn from. During an interview with Hungarian radio, he expressed his belief that mass migration has permanently transformed Germany for the worse.

According to the Hungarian leader, Germany used to be a shining example in the European continent  but in recent times, that seems to no longer be the case. He pointed to the left-wing government in Berlin "granting fast-track citizenship, arranging family reunification (chain migration) and whatever else."

"[This] has all kinds of repercussions because now a specific cultural milieu has emerged here in Germany," Orban continued. "It's a colorful, transformed, multicultural world in which the migrants coming in are no longer guests of the country. This is now their country too, and it's increasingly becoming theirs."

Orban also urged Hungarians to say "no" to a similar transformation of their country. He recounted that when hundreds of thousands of migrants began marching through Hungary in 2015, he decided that he would build a wall and stop them from coming.

"If you make a mistake in migration policy once, you cannot undo it later. Migration is one of the few areas in which, once you've made a mistake, you can never put it right again."

Head over to Migrants.news for similar stories.

Watch Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban insisting that "there isn't enough money in the world" to force his country to let migrants in.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Sen. Elizabeth Warren: Kamala Harris will forge pathway to citizenship for MILLIONS of illegal immigrants.

Female Australian tourist gang-raped by African men in Paris while Macron officials look the other way.

Democrat sanctuary cities are BUSING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS OUT of their areas.

Illegal immigrants rejoice following leftist victory in British election.

Macrons spokesperson attacked by suspected migrant vandals.

Sources include:

TheNationalPulse.com 1

TheNationalPulse.com 2

Brighteon.com
A Billings man was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of dealing fentanyl.

Chase Ray Strike Sr. was booked into Yellowstone County Detention Facility after a six-figure warrant was filed for his arrest. State law enforcement agents allegedly found the 44-year-old in possession of over 100 pills suspected of containing the synthetic opioid. Strike, previously sentenced for federal and felony charges, was also in possession of a shotgun at the time, court documents said.

(Strike) is a multi-convicted felon, said Yellowstone County Ed Zink during Strikes arraignment on Wednesday. Zink asked presiding Judge Thomas Pardy to set Stikes bond at $500,000.

In June 2023, a Montana Division of Criminal Investigation agent was monitoring Strike, who had a federal warrant for his arrest. The agent followed a pickup truck in which Strike was riding to a casino on 16th Street West.

Once Strike got out of the truck, the agent apprehended him with the assistance of Montana Highway Patrol troopers. The agent called a K9 unit with the Laurel Police Department to the scene, and the police dog alerted officers to the presence of drugs inside the truck, according to court documents. DCI received a warrant to search the truck.

Inside the truck, agents allegedly found a 12-gauge shotgun, along with ammunition. Agents also found 150 pills inside a magnetic stash box mounted to the bottom of the center console. Investigators sent the pills to a U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency laboratory, where they allegedly tested positive for fentanyl.

County prosecutors filed criminal charges against Strike on July 31. He is facing two felonies: drug possession with intent to distribute and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted person.

At the time of his arrest in June 2023, Strike was on federal probation after he was sentenced to roughly 13 years in prison in 2010 for dealing the club drug ecstasy in Billings. Because Strike served more than a year in prison, he was prohibited by federal law from possessing a gun. Strike pleaded not guilty to both charges at his arraignment Wednesday.

Zink cited Strikes criminal history, which included counts of criminal endangerment and aggravated assault by accountability, in asking Judge Pardy for the $500,000 bond. Attorney Anna Sullivan, who represented Strike at this arraignment, asked for a $250,000 bond, saying that Strike is employed in Billings and works full time to support his four children. Pardy set Strikes bond at $250,000.

Last year, city and county drug task forces have recovered over 80,000 fentanyl pills during the course of their investigations, according to data supplied by the Billings Police Department, along with about 14 pounds of loose fentanyl powder. From Jan. 1 through June, the City-County Specialized Investigations Unit seized 14 grams of fentanyl powder and 32,563 pills. During that same period, BPDs Street Crimes Unit recovered nearly 11 pounds of contraband drugs.

In the fallout of a nationwide surge in fatal overdoses starting in 2019, many of those due to fentanyl, overdose deaths finally started to decline in the fall of 2023, according to provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While the estimated overdose deaths in the U.S. remained at a staggering 107,000 throughout 2023, they were still down from the 111,029 deaths reported in 2022.

In Billings, Yellowstone County prosecutors have filed criminal charges against a man suspected of giving fentanyl to two people who fatally overdosed.

If convicted of criminal possession with intent to distribute, Strike could be sentenced up to 20 years in prison, while a conviction for possessing a firearm by a convicted person comes with the possibility of two to 10 years.
INSURRECTION: If Trump wins, Democrats plan to invoke Sec. 3 of the 14th Amendment to prevent him from taking office

Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) just admitted that the Democrat plan should Donald Trump win a second term in the White House this fall is to basically remove him via the U.S. Constitution.

The contingency plan involves the invocation of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, also known as the "Insurrection Clause," which disqualifies former government officials from holding office if they engaged in an "insurrection" after taking an oath to support the Constitution.

The Democrats claim that Trump sparked the events of Jan. 6, 2021, which resulted in hordes of people flooding the U.S. Capitol and wreaking havoc. Those hordes were deemed to have committed "insurrection" by the left  and since Trump is said to have led them in doing what they did, he, too, is a target for elimination.

Rep. Raskin says that invoking Sec. 3 of the 14th Amendment on Jan. 6, 2025, to prevent Trump from taking office "could lead to civil war," which is why he wants Democratic members of Congress to be given bodyguards.

Representative Raskin reveals that Democrats have a contingency plan in the event of a Trump victory in November - they will invoke Sec. 3 of the 14th Amendment to prevent Trump from taking office. He predicts it will result in a civil war. h/t @merissahansen17 pic.twitter.com/UkR9lgdSaa  @amuse (@amuse) August 5, 2024

(Related: Word through the grapevine is that the deep state is planning a second assassination attempt on Trump before Election Day  will they succeed this time?)

Are there enough RINOS in Congress to upend another Trump win?

In Rep. Raskin's view, Trump tried to destroy "democracy" by allegedly provoking his followers to rage into the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. As such, he believes that Democrats have a right to stop Trump from occupying the White House a second time.

In the following video, Rep. Raskin outlined his plans in a different setting to use force in fighting the "Trump mobs" that are sure to emerge after Democrats invoke Sec. 3 of the 14th Amendment:

Clip of Raskin threatening to use force to fight Trump mobs on Jan 6, 2025 to remove Trump under insurrection clause is ? real. Here is another clip from same event where Raskin denounced SCOTUS for pending CO insurrection decision and blames court for likely civil war. Sick pic.twitter.com/2PMWV5I2Mb  Julie Kelly ?? (@julie_kelly2) August 6, 2024

In order for Rep. Raskin's plan to work, two-thirds of both the House and the Senate must support it. Are there enough members of Congress willing to go along with the plan?

"In the House: currently 212 democrats, 220 republicans," noted an X account about how things currently stand. "A two-thirds majority is 290 votes, meaning if 78 republicans join democrats ... Are there 78 RINOS in the House?"

"In the Senate: currently 47 democrats, 49 republicans ... (4) minority ... 2/3 majority is 66.6 votes ... How many RINOS are in the Senate? The real question is will the RINOS allow Trump back into the WH or will they push civil war?"

It appears as though Rep. Raskin's plan has been in the works since at least 2018. The so-called "shadow" government had its puppets revealing somewhat more quietly at the time that Trump will not be allowed to win the 2024 election  and if he does, he will not be allowed to actually enter the White House in 2025.

THE SHADOW GOVERNMENT: In 2018 it was already decided to remove President Trump from the White House. Trump will never be allowed to win the 2024 Election. The Biden Administration is under the control of the Shadow Government. Facebook owned by U.S. Government. Covid-19 planned. pic.twitter.com/a3KNaC7YVg  Truth Justice  (@SpartaJustice) August 3, 2023

Will Trump be installed as president or is there a black swan still to come? Find out more at Trump.news.

Sources for this article include:

X.com

NYTimes.com

NaturalNews.com
IDF soldier accused of raping a Palestinian prisoner says interrogators applauded us

An Israeli Defense Force (IDF) soldier involved in the alleged rape of a Palestinian detainee has publicly stated that military police interrogators showed support for their actions rather than conducting a serious investigation.

On July 29, investigators from the IDF's Military Police Corps raided the Sde Teiman detention center to arrest soldiers suspected of serious sexual abuse of a Palestinian detainee. The raid, which led to a heated argument between soldiers and Military Police, was meant to execute an arrest warrant for 10 soldiers involved in guarding detainees from the Gaza Strip.

The raid, ordered by Chief Military Advocate General Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, was in response to the disturbing reports of severe abuse inflicted on a detainee, who was reportedly brought to a hospital showing signs of trauma to his anus. The detainee was allegedly subjected to severe mistreatment at Sde Teiman three weeks before his hospitalization. (Related: Palestinian prisoners being raped, tortured and murdered in Israeli prisons: "I am proud of that," says National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir.)

But in an interview with Israeli journalist Israel Frey, Meir Ben Shatrit, one of the accused IDF soldiers, revealed that the interrogation of the police was a mere formality. "You feel they want to thank you," Ben Shatrit stated. "There were days when they applauded us."

Netanyahu's former speechwriter suggests Palestinian prisoners "might have raped themselves"

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir acknowledged that conditions at Sde Teiman have "indeed worsened" over time. However, rather than offering an apology or committing to reform, Ben-Gvir is publicly celebrating these revelations.

"I am proud of that," Ben-Gvir said in full support of the abuse Palestinian prisoners are having to endure. Ben-Gvir also denounced the raid and labeled it as a disgraceful act against Israeli soldiers.

"The spectacle of Military Police officers coming to arrest our best heroes at Sde Teiman is nothing less than shameful," said Ben-Gvir, whose ministry controls the Israel Police and Israel Prison Service.

Adding to the controversy, the wife of one of the soldiers accused of raping and anally sodomizing the detainee dismissed the severity of the allegations in a disturbing statement to the Israeli media. "What do I care about his a--?" she remarked, further asserting that she and her husband "feel threatened" by the ongoing legal proceedings.

A former speechwriter for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also suggested on Israeli television that the Palestinian prisoners at Sde Teiman might have raped themselves.

"First, we didn't know what happened or didn't happen in this incident. I would not rule [out] the option that the terrorists harmed each other, did to one another the filthy acts that they are used to or are educated to do," the speechwriter said in a short video clip of his interview uploaded on X.

Visit IsraelCollapse.com for more stories like this.

Watch this clip discussing how Netanyahu risks civil war with members of his own coalition if he prosecutes Israeli military members who sexually assaulted illegally detained Palestinians.

This video is from the Neroke-5 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Israel used dogs, waterboarding to torture Palestinian prisoners  UN.

Israeli national security minister calls for EXECUTION of Palestinian prisoners with shot to the head.

Whistleblowers detail ABUSE of Palestinian prisoners at Sde Teiman military base in Israels Negev region.

PSALM 83? Israel surrounded on all sides by Palestinian Resistance Axis enemies that want to destroy it.

State Department refusing to call IDFs gang rape of an illegally detained Palestinian a WAR CRIME incident.

Sources include:

InformationLiberation.com

MiddleEastEye.com

TheTimesofIsrael.com

Brighteon.com
Israeli finance minister claims letting Palestinians starve to death is justified and moral

Far-right Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich has never been shy about admitting he wants to rid the world of Palestinians, and now he has gone on the record as saying that allowing 2 million people in Gaza to die of hunger could be justified and moral.

The heartless comments came at a conference that was hosted by Israel Hayom, where he voiced his support for preventing aid from reaching those in need in the Strip. However, he said that Israels hands are tied and they must let the aid in despite his firm belief that it would be perfectly acceptable to block it.

We are bringing in aid because there is no choice. We can't, in the current global reality, manage a war. 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, he said, adding that if it was Israel that was in charge of distributing aid rather than Hamas, the hostages would have been returned by now and the war would be over. The problem, according to him, is that Israel lacks international legitimacy in the war.

Smotrich is no stranger to controversy and has been calling for the genocide of Palestinians since entering the Knesset nearly a decade ago. He has expressed support for wiping out a Palestinian village, earning a rebuke from the U.S. State Department. In a 2021 speech to Palestinian members of the Knesset, he said: "You are here by mistake because Ben-Gurion did not finish the job in '48 and did not throw you out."

He has also said that there is no such thing as a Palestinian people in comments the Palestinian Authority slammed as racist and an attempt to falsify history.

In a government meeting earlier this year, he openly called for the elimination of Gaza and its people. "There are no half measures. Rafah, Deir al-Balah, Nuseirat  total annihilation. You will blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven, he said, quoting a story from the bible in which God commanded the Israelites to eradicate the people of Amalek.

These comments prompted the Israeli newspaper Haaretz to issue an editorial calling for Smotrich to be fired, noting: "That's how any properly run country would act, and all the more so a country against which the International Court of Justice in The Hague has issued provisional measures requiring it to refrain from genocide, including one requiring it to deal properly with incitement to genocide."

Smotrich isnt the only high-profile Israeli politician who isnt ashamed of his desire to see Palestinians suffer and die. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also compared Gaza to Amalek in comments that were used as evidence in South Africas genocide case against Israel before the International Court of Justice. Some politicians have even advocated hitting the strip with a nuclear bomb.

Gazans suffering from starvation and lack of medical supplies

The Gaza Strip has been under a tight siege since fighting broke out between Israel and Hamas terrorists in Gaza, cutting off the flow of essential food and life-saving medical supplies to innocent Palestinians living in the enclave. Aid delivery has also been very limited, and independent UN investigators determined that Israel is using starvation as a weapon of war against Palestinians.

According to the UN, nearly all of the Gazan population is facing acute food insecurity, while half a million people there are suffering from starvation.

Israel has said it will not end the war until all Israeli hostages have been freed and Hamas has been wiped out. Nearly 40,000 people have died in Gaza since the war broke out last October.

Sources for this article include:

MiddleEastEye.net

CommonDreams.org

Edition.CNN.com
Kamala Harris picks radical pro-riot Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as running mate

The presidential campaign of Kamala Harris has confirmed via text that the current vice president's 2024 running mate for VP will be Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Walz, who signed an executive order last year making Minnesota a "sanctuary state" for the transgender mutilation of children (LGBT), celebrated being picked by Kamala on X while urging his followers to donate to Kamala through ActBlue.

"It is the honor of a lifetime to join @kamalaharris in this campaign," the Walz X account wrote. "I'm all in."

"Vice President Harris is showing us the politics of what's possible. It reminds me a bit of the first day of school. So, let's get this done, folks! Join us."

The Associated Press (AP) celebrated as well the fact that Kamala is the official Democratic presidential nominee despite never having been voted on by members of her party to hold the spot.

One of the big reasons why Kamala picked Walz is because he is "a leading driver of Democrats' attacks on Trump," according to CNN. Democrats wanted an attack dog, in other words, which they got with Walz.

(Related: Even the DNC's compliance manager believes that Kamala has no chance of winning  at least not without rigging the election.)

Walz will help usher in WWIII

While it was initially thought that Kamala would pick someone else like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro or Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Walz took the spot after a viral cable news interview in which he called the nation's Republicans "weird."

"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," reported The Hill.

Keep in mind that the same media celebrating Kamala's pick of Walz, who is 60 years old (but looks about 75), had previously criticized Republicans for nominating Trump, who is 78.

Walz, by the way, failed to send in the National Guard in a timely fashion after the George Floyd incident, which is why parts of Minneapolis ended up burned to the ground in the 2020 summer of rage. Other actions by Walz that voters probably want to know include:

- Fueling the George Floyd riots with his actions and rhetoric

- Calling Trump supporters "fascists" after the recent assassination attempt

- Championing extreme LGBT trans surgeries and abortion laws

- Overseeing $250 million in covid fraud

- Being Nancy Pelosi's top "yes man" in Congress

- Promoting open borders

Walz also used to work for Israel Defense Forces (IDF); is a proud member of Antifa; and signed into law legislation allowing illegal aliens in Minnesota to obtain drivers' licenses.

As for the many Americans who are calling out Joe Biden for being too old and demented to occupy the Oval Office, Walz says these people are guilty of "ageism" because Biden is just fine, in his opinion.

"Two sickening commies to run against two sickening Zionists," one commenter wrote about the race between Kamala-Walz and Trump-Vance. "Love it. What a cool country."

Another warned that World War III is sure to materialize if Walz ends up as vice president. During the Barack Obama years, Walz, a retired Army officer, told AIPAC that the U.S. supports Israel's settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem because Israel "is our truest and closest ally in the region with a commitment to values of personal freedoms and liberties, surrounded by a pretty tough neighborhood."

"His daughter was an active loot and burner, too," noted another commenter about Walz's offspring.

The latest news about the 2024 presidential election can be found at Rigged.news.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com
Kamala Harris remains SOFT ON CRIME despite her tough-on-crime ads

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, is actually soft on crime despite advertisements that paint her as a "tough-on-crime" prosecutor.

According to the Washington Free Beacon, the advertisements are part of a $50 million campaign in several battleground states. The said ads paint Harris, who formerly served as San Francisco District Attorney (DA) and California Attorney General (AG), as a "tough on crime" prosecutor who "put murderers and abusers behind bars."

However, Harris is far from the tough prosecutor portrayed in the advertisements. Not only did she prevent murderers and abusers from jail time, she also ensured that these criminals stayed outside prison. The Free Beacon shared several instances of the now-vice president's soft-on-crime stance.

"I took on perpetrators of all kinds  predators who abused women, fraudsters who ripped off consumers, cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain," Harris claimed during a campaign rally in Wisconsin. In reality, she took pity on these perpetrators by granting plea deals and recommending probation to some of them during her stint as San Francisco DA.

In 2004, Harris' office offered a plea deal to domestic abuser Scott McAlpin  who was charged with stalking and terrorizing a woman for three years. Eight months after the plea deal, McAlpin killed the woman he was stalking and stuffed her body in the trunk of his car.

In 2005, Harris made a deal with Dwayne Reed, who was charged with murdering Hunter McPherson  the son of former California Secretary of State Bruce McPherson during a robbery. Despite having six prior felony convictions, the San Francisco DA agreed to release Reed in exchange for his testimony against his accomplice in the murder robbery that killed the younger McPherson. Reed murdered another man eight months after testifying.

"Blame it on Kamala Harris"

In 2006, Harris' office granted probation to Devaughndre Broussard, who assaulted and robbed Christopher Hall Jr. while on the San Franciso Municipal Railway. This enabled Broussard to assassinate Chauncey Bailey, editor of the Oakland Post, the following year. According to SFGATE, Bailey's 2007 killing arose from his investigation of a crime syndicate implicating the suspect's family.

"He should have gone to state prison," said Christopher Hall Sr., the father of Broussard's first victim. "Blame it on Kamala Harris."

Attorney Jim Hammer, one of Harris' former homicide prosecutors, denounced his boss in a September 2006 op-ed. He accused the then-San Francisco DA of lacking the "guts and willingness to go after tough cases."

"Ask any experienced gang or homicide detective and they will tell you that prosecuting a few key suspects can have a disproportionate effect on reducing crime," Hammer wrote at the time. "Prosecuting a suspect in a tough case and taking him to trial, even if you lose, sends the message that sooner or later he or she will get caught. Tough decisions by the DA can help reduce crime."

According to Law Enforcement Today (LET), Harris "has a long history of favoring criminals to the detriment of law enforcement." Even officers of the San Francisco Police Department have accused her of leniency in charging violent criminals. This contradicts her campaign's claim that she supports the police, another lie being pushed to the people through her advertisements.

During the Black Lives Matter riots in 2020, the vice president admitted to being a "defund the police" zealot and suggested that policing needs to be "reimagined." Harris also exhorted people to donate to the Minneapolis Freedom Fund to bail out criminals who burned down a police precinct in Minneapolis.

LET concluded by pointing out that while Harris can "bloviate about being 'tough on crime," her record clearly shows that she is "a progressive anti-police, pro-criminal zealot." It added: "No amount of attempting to rewrite history can change that." (Related: Doc Burkhart: Dems trying to REWRITE HISTORY on VP Kamala Harris.)

Head over to KamalaHarris.news for more stories about the vice president.

Watch Bill O'Reilly explaining why Vice President Kamala Harris is deceiving voters in the clip below.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Insider says Kamala Harris mistreated staff, screamed vulgarities and ordered everyone to call her "general" every morning.

BOMBSHELL: Kamala Harris covered up sex abuse crimes of priests, buried records, and took cash from church officials.

Newly uncovered damning video footage of Kamala Harris could be the end of her 2024 campaign.

TREASON: Kamala Harris tied to Biden Crime Family's communist Chinese pay-for-play schemes.

TRUTH about Kamala Harris: She bailed out BLM rioters rather than punish them.

Sources include:

LawEnforcementToday.com

FreeBeacon.com

SFGATE.com

Brighteon.com
Report: Groups of military-age males from China and South America are illegally entering the United States

A recent report has revealed that groups of military-age males from China and South and Central American nations like Honduras and Colombia are illegally entering the United States.

The report, released by investigative journalist Nick Shirley on Aug. 1, includes firsthand accounts and interviews of residents and local officials in the area around the southern border. A woman who owns property adjacent to the border described the constant struggle of dealing with groups of illegal migrants camping by her home.

"I see them every day, groups of young men, some of them Chinese, setting up camps near my property," the woman said. "They often say theyre heading 'to camp,' and I cant help but wonder if they mean a military camp. It feels like something out of a Red Dawn scenario."

In addition to the womans testimony, Shirley spoke with Mayor Bill Wells of El Cajon, California. Wells discussed the broader implications of the border crisis on local governments and how the influx of illegal migrants is bankrupting counties and placing immense pressure on public resources.

"The financial strain on our county is overwhelming," Wells said. "We are seeing unprecedented numbers of migrants, many of whom are young men of military age, and this is causing a ripple effect throughout our community services and infrastructure."

In his investigation, Shirley also discovered that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the Border Patrol are not only aware of the crossings but are actively aiding the illegal immigrants in their journey.

"The NGOs are providing food, shelter and logistical support to these migrants, essentially helping them on their way," Shirley explained. "What's more concerning is that Border Patrol agents, under current administration policies, are seemingly turning a blind eye if not outright facilitating these crossings."

Democrats still ignoring the potential national security threat of illegal immigrants from China

This report has ignited a firestorm of concern among citizens and lawmakers alike. The possibility that military-age individuals from countries like China could be entering the U.S. with potentially hostile intentions has brought the issue of border security back to the forefront of national discourse.

"These are not just families seeking a better life; these are young men who could pose a serious threat to our national security," said one anonymous source familiar with border security operations. "The fact that this is happening with the tacit support of NGOs and the Border Patrol is deeply troubling." (Related: Tens of thousands of illegal Chinese migrants detained at U.S. border in major national security threat.)

In a report from July, U.S. authorities claimed to have encountered over 55,000 Chinese migrants illegally crossing from Mexico in the past 18 months, primarily through the rugged desert mountains east of San Diego. This marks a significant increase from 3,813 crossings in 2022 due to the economic and political fallout from China's extended COVID-19 lockdowns. In line with this, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has made China the largest source of illegal migration outside the United States over the past three years.

Once on U.S. soil, Chinese migrants surrender to U.S. agents and express a fear of persecution in their home country  a first step in seeking asylum.

Those entering the U.S. through the mountainous regions outside San Diego are subjected to interviews with Border Patrol agents trained to screen for possible Communist Party and military ties. The agents cross-reference the passports and personal information of these migrants with data from nations that share information with the United States. However, DHS officials note that cooperation with China is limited, resulting in scant additional information.

This has sparked political and national security debates. Republicans describe these migrants as "fighting-age men" and warn that the influx could conceal espionage activities.

InvasionUSA.news has more similar stories.

Watch this Fox News broadcast detailing how Chinese migrants are flooding through California's stretch of the southern border.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Border agents report encounters with nearly 30,000 Chinese illegal immigrants since October.

RED DAWN ALERT: Chinese agents are being sent across Mexican border to prepare attacks on U.S. soil.

Chinese illegal immigrant arrested for unauthorized entry onto Marine Corps base in California.

INVASION USA: Swarm of military-aged immigrants arriving in Texas, citizen journalist warns.

Actual invasion of U.S. underway: Hundreds of thousands of military-aged males pouring into country with help from the Biden regime.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

MSN.com

Brighteon.com
People who RESISTED medical tyranny are now WINNING religious exemption lawsuits

Two courts recently ruled in favor of plaintiffs who were not granted their religious exemption requests on vaccine requirements, adding to a string of recent victories over dangerous inoculation mandates.

Since May, at least 10 appellate courts have issued decisions in favor of employees who sued their employers over Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) religious or moral exemptions actions or policies. (Related: Connecticut claims religious exemptions to mandatory child vaccinations somehow pose a threat to public health.)

In April 2022, Rachel Spivack sued her former boss, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, for violating her First Amendment rights and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Religious Freedom Protection Act. Krasner's office issued a vaccine mandate for all eligible employees in August 2021, about a month before Spivack, a non-unionized employee, began working there.

Spivack sought a religious exemption based on her Orthodox Jewish beliefs, submitting a letter from her rabbi and providing a detailed explanation of her religious beliefs, but Krasner ignored her request for COVID-19 vaccine exemption while allowing other types of exemptions.

According to the DA's office, they changed policy between August 2021 and January 2022, deciding to categorically deny all religious exemptions without individual assessment. However, his policy did allow a medical exemption for one employee and exemptions for unionized employees whose terms of employment are governed by their union contracts with the city rather than with his office. Spivack still attempted to work with the office to find ways to keep her job without getting vaccinated, offering to mask and test weekly, but the office refused and terminated her employment on April 8, 2022.

She sued Krasner and the city later that month. The District Court that first heard the case granted Krasner's motion for summary judgment, saying there was no evidence his decision was based on religious intolerance. But on July 29, the Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit reversed the decision and sent the case back for trial.

A reasonable jury could find that Krasner's comments "evince hostility toward religion that undermines" the neutrality of his office's policies, or it could also reach the opposite conclusion, the ruling said. Therefore, "neither party is entitled to summary judgment on neutrality" and the case should be heard by a jury.

"We are grateful that the Appeals Court recognized that these important issues deserve a jury's consideration, Lea Patterson, who represented Spivack in court, said in a press release. "No American should lose her job for living according to her sincerely held religious beliefs."

Connecticut Supreme Court rules in favor of religious exemptions

Meanwhile, the Connecticut Supreme Court sent a case challenging Connecticut's school vaccine religious exemption policy back to the Superior Court for further review in relation to the state's Religious Freedom and Restoration Act.

In 2021, parents Keira Spillane and Anna Kehle sued the governor, the heads of the state's Education and Public Health departments, and a local school and board of education, arguing that the policy violated their and their children's rights to freely exercise religion, to equal protection of the laws and to free public education.

The defendants appealed to the Connecticut Supreme Court, which reversed part of the lower court's decision, dismissing five of six counts against the plaintiffs and allowing the school vaccination mandate to remain in place. However, it sent the case back to the Superior Court to review the plaintiffs' claims.

"This decision is a victory for our plaintiffs and a victory for religious freedom in Connecticut and we look forward to pressing ahead with our injunction motion so that we can get these disenfranchised children back to school while we await our trial," said Brian Marks, professor of law and public health at the University of New Haven School of Health Sciences.

Visit MedicalTyranny.com for more news related to public health mandates such as vaccine requirements.

Watch the video below that talks about the recent rulings in favor of the religious exemption lawsuits.

This video is from the Loki Luck III channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Drag queen CEO of United Airlines accused of mocking employees who applied for religious exemptions from COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Report finds U.S. military violated rules in handling COVID-19 vaccine mandate exemption requests.

In affront to God, Pope Francis condemns antivaxxers, says NOT taking the covid vaccine is an act of suicide refuses to condemn transhumanism mRNA vaccine tech.

Sources include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org 1

ChildrensHealthDefense.org 2

WTNH.com

Brighteon.com
Utah Sen. Mike Lee tells Tucker Carlson: Abortion is now a sacrament to leftists like Kamala Harris

In a recent interview with Fox News' former anchorman Tucker Carlson, U.S. Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) slammed Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris' radical pro-abortion stance

Harris championed abortion rights for the Biden administration after Roe v. Wade was overturned in June 2022. She started a "reproductive freedoms tour" to multiple states, including a stop in Minnesota thought to be the first by a sitting president or vice president at an abortion clinic back in January.

During the talk, Carlson noted that "Harris is an abortion fanatic." He then asked the senator: "It's hard to understand the fanaticism, that sort of crazed, wild-eyed enthusiasm for abortion from her. What do you think that is?"

According to Lee, Harris' radical pro-abortion stance "may be a product of her training, her education, her upbringing." He noted that American law schools tend to indoctrinate students with the idea that Roe v. Wade was legitimate, with very few exceptions and even that it is "fundamental" to the U.S.'s identity. (Related: In her own words: Kamala Harris' radical vision for America.)

Lee then said that he also finds it "interesting" that instead of promoting abortion as something "safe, legal and rare," it is "now a sacrament" to leftists like Harris. "Women are being encouraged to share their stories now about why they're so glad they've had one. It's so awful," Lee said.

Carlson agreed, adding, "It seems to me just like your conventional human sacrifice cult that every civilization has had."

Harris calls for Roe v. Wade restoration

Liberal analysts are now looking forward to having Harris as their "mouthpiece" as Biden who is Catholic, has long expressed personal misgivings about the procedure throughout his lengthy political career. Because of this, abortion rights activists were frustrated with Biden.

If elected president, Harris who promised to take abortion as the focus of her campaign, "could draw a lot more attention to the issue rhetorically, though she might be limited in the policies she could pursue," said Paul Goren, a political science professor at the University of Minnesota.

"Her strategy, her intention will certainly be to talk about the issue (in the campaign)," Goren said. "Whether she's able to do that consistently and effectively remains to be seen."

When she was California's attorney general, Harris targeted pro-life undercover journalists David Daleiden and Sandra Merritt after their groundbreaking reporting on the abortion industry's sale of baby body parts rocked the country in 2015. She ordered a raid on Daleiden's apartment, had his laptop stolen, and did everything she could to ensure that the undercover footage of Planned Parenthood  one of her biggest campaign donors  never saw the light of day.

Alleging that her opponent Republican frontrunner and former President Donald Trump's "weakest campaign talking point" is abortion, Harris vowed to "restore reproductive freedom."

Her campaign specified earlier last week that she's calling for restoring Roe v. Wade, a "landmark decision" of the U.S. Supreme Court in which the Court ruled that the Constitution of the United States generally protected a right to have an abortion.

The Harris campaign told POLITICO that the opinion that Harris expressed back in the September interview with "Face the Nation" has not changed. She wants to reinstate Roe, which she believes protected abortion until the point of fetal viability, around 22 weeks of pregnancy.

"I am being precise. We need to put into law the protections of Roe v. Wade," Harris said in that interview. "And that is about going back to where we were before the Dobbs decision."

Even as abortion-rights groups embrace her campaign and insist they aren't surprised by her stance, they argue that restoring Roe has always been the floor and the onus is on activists to push for policies that allow abortions later in pregnancy and a Congress willing to pass them, the news outlet reported.

Head over to KamalaWatch.com for more stories related to this.

Watch this video comparing Harris to a chameleon that changes its color to "adapt" to its environment.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

TRUTH about Kamala Harris: She worsened California homelessness and crime while prosecuting pro-life filmmakers.

SHOCKING: Harris wants to reduce the POPULATION to achieve clean air and water.

Watchdog website PURGES report labeling Kamala Harris the "most liberal senator" of 2019.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

Edition.CNN.com

Context.news

POLITICO.com

Brighteon.com
Ensuring Equitable REDD+ Projects

Indigenous peoples and local communities have often gone wholly unrecognized for their efforts to protect their lands. In extreme cases, some have even lost their lives fighting to protect the forest ecosystems they call home.

With high-integrity Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) projects, Indigenous peoples and local communities receive direct compensation for protecting these ecosystems. As carbon project developers seek to establish REDD+ projects in the Global South, it is imperative that governments and Indigenous people engage as equal partners and co-designers. This is a prerequisite if projects are to be effective and sustainable.

Wildlife Works is the world's leading Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) project development and management company. For Wildlife Works, the key to successful REDD+ projects is putting community-led forest protection at the forefront of tackling climate change. The following is a closer look at equitable REDD+ project implementation, based on Wildlife Works' 25 years of experience partnering with Global South communities to make conservation work for their development goals. These recommendations ensure that compensation earned from these projects is equitably shared, direct, tangible, and measurable to local people and host governments.

Conduct Knowledge Sharing and Listening Sessions

Developers must first conduct in-depth knowledge-sharing and listening sessions with communities to understand their lived experiences, including community history, governance structures, resources, and land use. Where possible, the developer should engage local, reputable NGOs, which may have established relationships with communities and can assist in ensuring accurate interpretation of information.

Guarantee Free, Informed, Prior Consent

After conducting knowledge-sharing and listening sessions, confirming that communities feel equipped to enter the free, prior, and informed consent process is paramount. Local communities must have adequate time to process all pertinent information before agreeing to a project. Consent should also be considered fluid throughout the lifetime of any REDD+ project.

Project managers should aim to foster culturally respectful processes for dialog and build long-lasting relationships founded on mutual respect and trust, which uphold the community's existing governance structures. This ensures that local leaders are included as co-creators throughout the duration of the project's implementation, which can last for decades.

Agree on Fair Revenue Share

An equitable REDD+ project must be built on the foundation of a fair revenue share model. Wildlife Works advocates for revenue share agreements to maximize the income directed toward self-determined community projects. Balance must also be achieved between revenue share levels and the overall sustainability of REDD+ projects. Revenue structures should, whenever possible, align with national carbon program policies.

For full recommendations, read 7 Recommendations to Ensure Equitable REDD+ Projects

Wildlife Works

Wildlife Works is a global community-centered conservation organization founded in 1997. The organization implements economic solutions to protect the planet's most endangered forests. These financial solutions support environmental conservation by directly financing community conservation efforts in critically threatened forests in Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia.

Wildlife Works believes equity is at the heart of the most effective Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation and other similarly developed environmental conservation projects. To be successful, they believe that Indigenous peoples and local communities must directly feel the benefits of these projects. Find out more at WildlifeWorks.com/REDD-Projects.
There are, he wrote, two pretty credible, NGSO (Non-Geostationary Orbit) communications constellations in China. These include the state-backed SatNet/Guowang constellation and the partly state-backed but somewhat commercial G60/ Qianfan constellation.

Curcio went on to say, despite it only being announced with any seriousness a few months ago, we already know a heck of a lot more about G60/Qianfan than we do about SatNet/Guowang, as the former appears very keen for publicity and recognition, and the latter very much under wraps, possibly due to its Central government ownership.

The operation, he wrote, will be operated by Yuanxin Satellite, aka SSST, a company that was provided about $1 billion of funding from the Shanghai Government earlier this year. The satellites will be built by Genesat, a joint venture between the Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai Engineering Center for Microsatellites (CAS SECM) and Shanghai Aerospace Investment Limited (SAIL), a Shanghai Government fund.

According to Curcio, recent statements from the company call for 648 satellites and APAC regional coverage by EOY 2025, and an additional 648 satellites for global coverage by EOY 2027.

He stated that the SatNet/Guowang constellation will be operated by China Satellite Networks Limited (SatNet), a centrally controlled SOE established in April 2021. The constellation might have thousands of satellites, or over 10,000 satellites, or some other undefined number. We have zero news of deployment timeline, we dont know what the satellites look like, and we have no confirmation about who will build them.
India, US working to 'shape the future', write Blinken, Austin

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S 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 Bidens 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 Americas 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. Americas 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 Americas turn inward to advance its alternative vision of the world -- a vision hostile to US interests.

Significantly, the two officials confined their concerns about Chinas aggression to its behaviour at the sea. Were pushing back together against Chinas dangerous brinkmanship in the regions waterways, they wrote, referring to Chinas island and maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

At another point in the Op-ed, they wrote about Chinas dangerous and provocative actions at sea. The reference was to the South China Sea. There was no reference to Chinas aggression in its land disputes, such as the one with India.

 India, US working to 'shape the future', write Blinken, Austin

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Tata Power Q1 net profit jumps 31 pc to Rs 1,189 crore

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ata 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 Power's 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."

 Tata Power Q1 net profit jumps 31 pc to Rs 1,189 crore

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Sri Lanka and France to jointly establish Regional Centre for Maritime Studies

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he Sri Lankan Cabinet on Tuesday gave its approval to the setting up of a Regional Centre for Maritime Studies in collaboration with France.

"Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as a Minister of Defence to enter into a bilateral agreement between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of France in respect of establishment of proposed Regional Centre for Maritime Studies," Cabinet spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena told media in Colombo.

According to Gunawardena, the decision was made after France identified the island nation as the "most suitable location" for the establishment of the Regional Centre.

The proposed centre will be established at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University after getting the necessary assistance and infrastructure facility from the Trincomalee Naval and Maritime Academy.

Earlier this year, France announced its plans to establish a dedicated school focused on maritime safety and security.

During his visit to Sri Lanka, French Ambassador for Indo-Pacific Marc Abensour had said that discussions were underway about the modalities of setting up the training school.

During his visit, the Ambassador met defence and maritime security authorities, emphasising on France's interest in regional security with the French EEZ in the Indian Ocean also being one of the largest.

"We also contribute to the regional stability and have a military presence in the Indian Ocean. We have military bases in Djibouti and also in the Emirates. We have about 4,000 military personnel deployed across the Indian Ocean. They contribute to the protection of our sovereignty and also help to protect the sea lanes of communication. Also, they protect the underwater cables," said the French Ambassador.

 Sri Lanka and France to jointly establish Regional Centre for Maritime Studies

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Bangladesh unrest and Hasina's ouster: What lessons does it have for India?

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he 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 Hasina's ouster is set to have far-reaching implications, transcending Bangladesh's borders but the issue of Western powers meddling in developing countries' 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 Hasina's ouster comes as a setback for India too as the two nations shared good ties and relationship in the former's 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 students' 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 nation's 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 'white persons' and accused them of interfering in the country's internal affairs.

The ransacking of Bangladesh PM's 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 country's complex diversity makes it more 'vulnerable' for foreign conspirators to trigger similar chaos, by engaging the anti-government forces.

While the Modi government's 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. It's 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.

 Bangladesh unrest and Hasina's ouster: What lessons does it have for India?

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Andhra CM discusses YouTube Academy with Google leadership

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ndhra 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.

 Andhra CM discusses YouTube Academy with Google leadership

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Google to partner with Andhra Pradesh for AI applications

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ech 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 Naidu's 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 state's 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 '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," 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.

 Google to partner with Andhra Pradesh for AI applications

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Bt cotton yielded high income for farmers: Union Minister

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study conducted by ICAR-CICR found that the income of farmers has increased with the adoption of Bt cotton in the country as the yield is higher by 3 to 4 quintals per acre and there is a reduction in insecticide cost against the cotton bollworm, Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare Ramnath Thakur informed the Lok Sabha.

The current net return from Bt cotton is estimated at Rs 25,000 per hectare in rainfed areas with the adoption of suitable agronomy. With the rapid adoption of Bt. cotton by the farmers, currently more than 96 per cent area under cotton cultivation is occupied by Bt cotton, he added,

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur conducted a study to evaluate the impact of Bt cotton in Maharashtra during 2012-13 and 2013-14. ICAR-CICR also conducted a study on the impact of Bt cotton on soil ecology.

During the period of survey, the incidence of bollworm infestation reduced drastically and the number of insecticide applications fell from eight to four. Further, ICAR-CICR studies had shown no adverse effect of Bt cotton cultivation on soil ecological parameters.

Bt cotton is the only Genetically Modified (GM) crop approved in 2002 by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for commercial cultivation in the country, the minister added.

During the year 2023-24, Bt cotton was grown in 129.27 lakh hectares in 11 cotton-producing states of the country. The total production of Bt cotton during the year was 336.6 lakh bales while the yield was estimated at 443 kg per hectare.

Maharashtra had the highest area under Bt cotton cultivation with the crop being grown in 41.82 lakh hectares, Gujarat was in the second spot with 24.84 lakh hectares followed by Telangana with 19.73 lakh and Karnataka with 9.49 lakh hectares.

In Andhra Pradesh there were 7.04 lakh hectares under Bt cotton during 202-23 while as many as 4,73,345 farmers were cultivating the crop, the minister said.

Among the northern states, Rajasthan had the highest acreage under Bt cotton with the crop being sown in 8.15 lakh hectares. Neighbouring Haryana devoted 5.75 lakh lakh hectares to Bt cotton while Punjab had 2.49 lakh hectares under the crop.

In the central region, the crop was being grown in Madhya Pradesh which had 5.95 lakh hectares sown with Bt cotton during 2022-23.

 Bt cotton yielded high income for farmers: Union Minister

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Minimum account balance rules not applicable to PM Jan Dhan & saving accounts: FM Sitharaman

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nion Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that minimum account balance rules do not apply to PM Jan Dhan and basic saving accounts.

"Minimum account balance rule does not apply to PM Jan Dhan accounts and basic savings accounts. It applies only to those bank accounts where customers are required to maintain a certain minimum balance in their accounts," the Finance Minister said in response to a question in Rajya Sabha on the penalty of Rs 8,500 crore collected by public sector banks in the last five years for non-maintenance of minimum balance in bank accounts by customers.

The government banks that charged fines for not maintaining minimum balance include Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Punjab and Sind Bank, Union Bank of India Bank, UCO Bank, Indian Bank, Canara Bank, Bank of Maharashtra and Central Bank of India.

Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary had told the Lok Sabha last month that public sector banks have collected a fine of Rs 2,331 crore in FY24 for not maintaining minimum balance.

"This amount was 25 per cent more than the amount from last year," the MoS said.

In the financial year 2023-24, a penalty of Rs 633 crore was collected by Punjab National Bank, Rs 386 crore by Bank of Baroda and Rs 369 crore by Indian Bank for non-maintenance of minimum balance.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (Jan Dhan or PMJDY), the Union government's financial inclusion plan, envisages at least one basic banking account per household, improved financial literacy, and access to credit, insurance, and pension facilities.

Launched in 2014, PMJDY accounts are now about 23 per cent of India's total savings accounts by number.

According to PIB data, a total of 52.81 crore Jan Dhan accounts with a deposit balance of Rs. 2,30,792 crores have been opened as of 19.07.2024 under PMJDY.

Out of the same, 29.37 crores (55.6 per cent) Jan Dhan accounts belong to women and about 35.15 crore (66.6 per cent) PMJDY accounts have been opened in rural and semi-urban areas.

--IANS

 Minimum account balance rules not applicable to PM Jan Dhan & saving accounts: FM Sitharaman

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North Korea leader describes recovery work in flood-hit region as 'revolutionary construction'

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orth Korean leader Kim Jong-un has attended a ceremony to dispatch young workers to flood-affected areas on the northern border, describing the restoration efforts as a "gigantic revolutionary construction campaign," the state media said on Wednesday.

The border city of Sinuiju and Uiju County in North Phyongan Province were recently struck by heavy rains. While North Korea has not released detailed information on the damage, South Korean media outlets have reported that the number of dead or missing could exceed 1,000, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The departure ceremony for the Paektusan Hero Youth Shock Brigade took place in Pyongyang on Tuesday, Yonhap news agency reported quoting KCNA.

The North's leader said that such restoration work would give a complete facelift to the territory, expressing confidence that the youth members would be a vanguard unit for socialist construction.

He also mentioned that nearly 300,000 young people have volunteered for the recovery efforts in less than a week, emphasising that such explosive volunteering enthusiasm is unparalleled in any other country.

Kim's attendance is seen as a tactic to prevent large-scale ideological defection during a national crisis and to demonstrate to the outside world the regime's ability to overcome disaster situations on its own.

Observers say Pyongyang is unlikely to accept Seoul's proposal for flood aid. Last Thursday, the South Korean government offered humanitarian aid to North Korea for the damage.

North Korea has not yet responded through the inter-Korean liaison communication channel.

North Korea has also declined Russia's offer of assistance with rain damage recovery, stating that it will seek Moscow's help when necessary.

The Paektusan Hero Youth Shock Brigade is a youth organization frequently deployed for large-scale civil engineering and construction projects in North Korea. They were involved in the completion of a power plant in 2016 and the construction of urban districts in Pyongyang.

 North Korea leader describes recovery work in flood-hit region as 'revolutionary construction'

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KTR urges Centre, Telangana to 'rescue' handloom sector

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harat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T.

Rama Rao on Wednesday urged the governments at the Centre and in Telangana to continue the welfare scheme for weavers and "rescue the handloom sector from the crisis". Claiming that the BRS government during the last 10 years undertook several initiatives for the welfare of weavers, he demanded that the Central and state governments implement the same schemes.

KTR, as Rama Rao is popularly known, in a statement claimed that the 10-year rule of BRS was a golden era for weavers in the nation's history as the handloom sector made rapid strides during the period.

The former minister said that the BRS government under the visionary leadership of K. Chandrasekhar Rao launched several innovative schemes for the development of the handloom sector and the welfare of weavers.

He said under the BRS rule, the annual budget for the handloom sector was doubled to Rs 1,200 crore, compared to six years under the previous governments in undivided Andhra Pradesh.

KTR listed out the key schemes implemented by the BRS government. These include 'Chenetha Mitra' subsidy scheme, 'Nethannaku Cheyuta' thrift fund, and 'Netannaku Bima', under which life insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh was provided to the families of 36,000 weavers. The previous government also waived loans to the tune of Rs 29 crore, benefiting 10,150 handloom workers.

The BRS leader, who represents the Sircilla Assembly constituency famous for its textile town, said the BRS government had also launched an innovative scheme for distribution of Bathukamma sarees to Telangana women to help the weavers earn a remunerative income. He also cited the establishment of the Apparel Park in Sircilla and the Kakatiya Mega Textile Park in Warangal as the other initiatives to strengthen the sector.

"BRS took many steps for the development of the handloom sector and the welfare of weavers. The BJP government at Centre adopted policies which were detrimental to the sector. GST was imposed on handlooms while All India Handloom Board, All India Handicrafts Board and All Indian Powerloom Board were abolished. Even the schemes for the welfare of weavers were scrapped and the subsidy on yarn was reduced from 40 per cent to 15 per cent," KTR said.

The BRS leader alleged that under the Revanth Reddy government, the handloom sector of Telangana once again slipped into crisis, with weavers' suicides being reported every day.

 KTR urges Centre, Telangana to 'rescue' handloom sector

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Montana, Wyoming and Colorado land owners have been receiving letter from South Dakota State University (SDSU). At first glance the letter seems innocent enough, simply asking for permission to examine streams on their property. This all being part of their work in the watersheds of the Great Plains to better understand stream connectivity for fish movement throughout the system. SDSU in the letters also explain they are looking for infrastructure such as dams or perched culverts that might impede fish movement. Interestingly enough, there is no mention of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), in these letters.

There is always more to the story! After contacting Jacob Zona the Project Coordinator for SDSU, it was discovered that the project is funded and backed by the BLM. The BLM has requested SDSU go to private and BLM lands to inventory all dams, road crossings, and diversions. The BLM wants to increase connectivity of stream networks on BLM that will also ensure compliance with the Endangered Species Act by restoring connectivity for threatened and endangered species on BLM administered lands.

Why is BLM hiring SDSU to inventory private lands? In the proposal for SDSU there are three distinct agendas. Frist the 30x30, which is to put 30% of all land into conservation by the year 2030. Second for compliance with the Endangered Species Act. Third the Justice 40 Initiative, which is a program to mitigate climate change in disadvantaged communities. Along with outlining two executive orders 14008 and 13985 one dealing with climate change and, the other with Racial Equity.

The BLM cannot inventory private property themselves because they are not allowed to, so their solution is SDSU. The public must ask why would the BLM want to inventory private lands? In all three states the public grazing lands are administered under the Taylor Grazing Act of 1934 wherein the Congress required that grazing privileges are to be safeguarded. Much of this land is made up of large tracts of private lands interconnected with public lands. BLM does not have the authority to assess the values or lack of values that occur on private lands. Inventorying public lands is to be performed by BLM with full public involvement and coordination with state and local governments through the resource management planning process under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. It would not be a stretch of the imagination for the BLM to use the backdoor gathered information to inform varying biodiversity objectives and subsequently push permit holders to remove dams, culverts, diversions or even restrict water access and use. Dont believe water restrictions could happen here, look at California, Oregon and Idaho. Farmers and ranchers are forced to reduce water consumption as much as 30% in some areas, which has and will result in farmers going out of business.

BLM lands are important, but our private lands are also very important. If you receive a letter asking for access for this project, it would be in your best interest to not allow access. The letter sent by SDSU fails to explain the real purpose of the project, which is to gather private land information for the BLM 30x30 objectives!
Toll fee collection on national highways reached Rs 54,811 crore in FY24: Nitin Gadkari

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he toll fee collection on national highways under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) was Rs 54,811.13 crore in the fiscal 2023-24, the Parliament was informed on Wednesday.

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, said in a reply in the Rajya Sabha that the expected increase in user fee collection solely due to the revision in fee rates at 2.55 per cent on the previous collection amount was Rs 1,400 crore.

"During the financial year 2023-24, total fee collection at national highway fee plaza operational under NHAI was Rs 54,811.13 crore," Minister Gadkari informed.

During the last five years, user fee rates have been revised five times and the average increase in user fee rates is 2.55 per cent from FY 2023-24.

Meanwhile, the Ministry spent Rs 6,523 crore towards maintenance of NHs during the last year.

Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) is installed in high traffic density National Highways and National Expressways such as Delhi-Meerut Expressway, Trans-Haryana, Eastern Peripheral Expressway, etc. by the NHAI.

"In new NH projects on high-density and high-speed corridors of NHAI, installation of ATMS is generally a part of the project. Further, ATMS is also implemented as standalone projects in already constructed important corridors," informed the minister.

On the total number of road accidents and fatalities on National Highways (including Expressways), the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways said that in 2022, there were 4,61,312 accidents on all roads (including 1,51,997 on national highways), while 1,68,491 people succumbed to death (including 61,038 on NHs) in that year.

The Ministry said it has formulated a multi-pronged strategy to address the issue of road safety based on education, engineering (both of roads and vehicles), enforcement and emergency care.

NHAI has also successfully planted 402.28 lakh plants to date along the national highways as per the Green Highways Policy 2015.

 Toll fee collection on national highways reached Rs 54,811 crore in FY24: Nitin Gadkari

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Bolivian President proposes referendum on re-election, Congress seats, and fuel subsidies

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olivian President Luis Arce proposed holding a referendum on presidential re-election, distribution of seats in the Legislative Assembly (Congress) and fuel subsidies.

"Difficult moments require firm, mature, thoughtful decisions and human beings who do not falter in the face of adversity," the president on Tuesday said in a speech marking the 199th anniversary of Bolivia's independence, in Sucre, a city in southern Chuquisaca department, Xinhua news agency reported.

Issues having to do with fuel supply and a shortage of dollars "are being used politically by some groups to create unrest," said Arce, adding he would rather see the people decide "whether or not we maintain the subsidy" for hydrocarbons.

Another issue that could be put to a vote is the distribution of seats in the Legislative Assembly, currently made up of 36 senators and 130 deputies.

"I am convinced that the wisdom of the people will be the guarantee that allows us to overcome the obstacles that we now face and that without a doubt we will overcome together facing the Bicentennial," said Arce.

 Bolivian President proposes referendum on re-election, Congress seats, and fuel subsidies

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CM Stalin to chair TN Cabinet meet ahead of US trip seeking investments

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hief Minister MK Stalin, who is slated to leave for the US on August 22 scouting for investments for Tamil Nadu, will chair a Cabinet meeting on August 13.

According to sources in the Tamil Nadu government, the Cabinet will clear some huge investment projects in the state.

The meeting that is scheduled to be held in the Secretariat is likely to approve some key reforms to attract investment and generate jobs in Tamil Nadu.

This will be done so that the state can provide a perfect platform for investors from the US and other countries.

Tamil Nadu held a Global Investors' Meet (GIM) in January and the state industries minister, TRB Rajaa said that 60 per cent of the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed at the GIM were in advanced stages of implementation.

As many as 631 MoUs were signed, with a commitment of Rs 6.64 lakh crore in investment.

Of this, a manufacturing facility at Thiruporur would be inaugurated in December this year.

It may be noted that Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is establishing two space parks adjacent to the upcoming space port at Kulasekarapattinam.

According to sources, during his US visit, Chief Minister Stalin will be pitching for investments in the space sector as it is booming.

The state has already constituted a nodal agency Guidance Tamil Nadu for bringing in investment. The Stalin government is now planning to open a desk of Guidance Tamil Nadu at Tokyo, Japan.

It may be recalled that Tamil Nadu has around 200 Japanese companies that are into automobile manufacturing, transport equipment, machinery, electric machines and chemicals.

The Cabinet will also deliberate on the north east monsoon preparedness. It may be recalled that during the 2023 monsoons people died due to rain related incidents and flooding.

The state government is also sore at the Union government for not allocating anything for Tamil Nadu in the recent Union Budget.

Sources in the government told IANS that the Cabinet meeting will take up this issue also.

 CM Stalin to chair TN Cabinet meet ahead of US trip seeking investments

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Paris Olympics: PT Usha, CMO give medical update after meeting Vinesh Phogat

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ndian Olympic Association (IOA) president P.T. Usha, contingent's Chief Medical Officer Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chef De Mission Gagan Narang and others gathered here on Wednesday to address the situation regarding Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics.

Usha took the time out of her busy schedule to visit the recovering Phogat who spent the entire night trying her best to shake off the 2.7 kg she required to reduce to meet the limit of the 50 kg women's freestyle.

"I am shocked and disappointed. I came here to meet Vinesh; she is physically and medically okay but mentally disappointed. Our support staff were there all night to bring her weight down from 52.7 kg to 50kg. The doctors have not slept and have done their level best for Vinesh," the IOA President told reporters.

Vinesh had defeated Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semifinals and had become the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event at the Olympics. But she failed to meet the weight requirement on Wednesday morning and her disqualification has since resulted in the Cuban replacing the Indian wrestler in the women's 50 kg freestyle final that will take place on Wednesday.

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala provided the media with an explanation of the process of nutrition that takes place for an athlete before a bout and how 'it is a fine balance.'

"It was a calculated restriction of food and water. We involve a lot of excessive sweating which is done with exercise, sauna and steam thereby we achieved the weight cut in the morning. The weight cut causes weakness and energy depletion which is really counterproductive. Hence for participation, we need to restore energy with some amounts of water and energy foods. It is a fine balance," said Dr Pardiwala.

Despite spending the entire night in the hope of losing excessive weight, Phogat is recovering quite well and all her reports came back normal. The 29-year-old was also given IV fluids in an attempt to rehydrate her from the vigorous night she suffered in her bid to make the weight.

"Once she was disqualified then as a precautionary measure we had to rehydrate her. The best way to rehydrate an athlete is through Intravenous (IV) fluids. She started eating and drinking, she is perfectly normal physically and medically. We got her blood tests done as a routine which came back clear," he added.

 Paris Olympics: PT Usha, CMO give medical update after meeting Vinesh Phogat

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President Murmu arrives in New Zealand on second leg of three-nation visit

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fter wrapping up her State Visit to Fiji - the first-ever by a Head of State from India to the South Pacific nation - President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Auckland late Wednesday, New Zealand time, on the second leg of her three-nation visit.

President Murmu, visiting the country at the invitation of Governor General of New Zealand Dame Cindy Kiro, was received at the Auckland airport by Todd McClay, New Zealand's Minister of agriculture, trade, forestry, hunting and fishing and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs.

High Commissioner of India Neeta Bhushan was also present on the occasion.

During the State Visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with Governor General Kiro and meet New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, who visited New Delhi in March, will also make courtesy calls on President Murmu.

"As you know, the Government of New Zealand has put India as a special focus country for their bilateral relations. New Zealand recognises India as a key partner in defence and security and in terms of overall bilateral trade, investment, people-to-people contact, etc. Therefore, this visit will itself be highly significant," said Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), last Friday ahead of President's departure.

With over 8,000 Indian students currently in New Zealand, President Murmu will be addressing an International Education Conference in Wellington, where India is the Guest of Honour.

"This underscores the significance of the educational relationship where New Zealand is looking to work with India and collaborate with our education system and our educational institutions apart from the students that we send there," remarked Secretary Mazumdar.

During her visit, President Murmu is also scheduled to interact with the Indian community and friends of India at a community reception in Auckland.

"As you know, the Indian diaspora there is about 300,000 strong, out of a total population of 5 million. They are very well integrated into New Zealand society and are really a living bridge between the two countries. These warm and friendly ties with New Zealand have seen an uptick in recent years and the visit is expected to give further impetus to the growing relations in a large number of areas," said the MEA Secretary.

After New Zealand, President Murmu will visit Timor-Leste on August 10 at the invitation of President Jose Ramos-Horta. This will be the first-ever Head of State visit from India to Timor-Leste.

The MEA had stated that the State Visit by President Murmu to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor-Leste underscores the importance India attaches to its bilateral relations with these countries and reflects New Delhi's strong focus on the 'Act East' policy which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi 10 years ago at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014.

 President Murmu arrives in New Zealand on second leg of three-nation visit

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Black Americans experience racial discrimination on a regular basis, and it is a cause of chronic and pervasive stress. It is known to contribute to elevated risk for poor mental health outcomes, but most research has focused on individuals. A new study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign looks at the interpersonal effects of discrimination on parents and their adolescent children.

A person's experiences with racial discrimination are not just their own but may spill over into the family and affect the mental health and perceived social support of other family members. We underestimate the impact of discrimination if we're only looking at the individual level." Sharde Smith, lead author, associate professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, part of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at Illinois

Smith and co-author Robyn Gobin, associate professor in the Department of Health and Kinesiology at Illinois, drew on a longitudinal Chicago neighborhood study examining the impact of social interactions and environments. Based on data from the study's third wave, the researchers included 401 Black parent-adolescent dyads, with an average age of 15 for the children. Participants answered questions about their experiences of racial discrimination over the past year, as well as their psychological well-being and perceived family support.

Analyzing the data for patterns, Smith and Gobin identified four clusters of responses: One group in which both the parent and the adolescent reported exposure to discrimination, another group where only the parent had experienced discrimination, a third group where the adolescent but not the parent had experienced discrimination, and a fourth group where both parents and children had a low likelihood of exposure to discrimination in the past year.

Specifically, parents were likely to experience racial discrimination at work, and both adolescents and their parents were likely to experience discrimination outside of their neighborhood and when they were receiving services. Furthermore, adolescents were likely to experience racial discrimination from the police.

As expected, the researchers found interactive effects of exposure to racial discrimination, consistent with the concept of "linked lives" that indicate people's life experiences impact their family members. Overall, parents and adolescents in the three risk groups reported more psychological distress and lower levels of family support.

However, adolescents indicated significantly less family support when their parents also experienced racial discrimination. For parents, the combined exposure to racial discrimination did not diminish their perceptions of social support any more than the other risk groups.

It's possible that parents struggle to support their children when they are also experiencing racial discrimination themselves, or perhaps children are not reporting the experiences to their parents, the researchers noted.

"It's important for adolescents to talk to their parents and be able to receive support in managing racial trauma. If they can't talk about these things in their family of origin with people who really understand it, then they may be left on their own trying to manage it, which could further exacerbate the mental health challenges they might be experiencing," Gobin stated.

The researchers did not find any differences based on demographic characteristics. This demonstrates these effects are not unique to one population, but affect people across gender identity, age, and socio-economic status, Smith said.

These findings show the importance of developing interventions to address the psychological effects of discrimination in a family context, particularly focusing on how to help adolescents receive the support they need.

"I want to highlight that the goal in an ideal world is to dismantle the systems that create the discrimination. However, given how difficult that will be over time, we still need to engage in more malleable approaches to tackle these issues. We need to make sure healing frameworks are trauma-sensitive and culturally sound, helping to capitalize on the strengths within the Black community," Smith concluded.
It may now be time to ban artificial stone-; a firm favorite for kitchen worktops in the UK-; to ward off the incurable lung disease caused by its manufacturing and fitting, say a team of doctors in the journal Thorax after treating the first 8 cases of artificial stone silicosis reported in the UK.

Silicosis is caused by breathing in crystalline silica dust, and millions of people around the world are at risk of developing it as a result of their jobs in mining, quarrying, stone-cutting and construction, they note.

Made from crushed rocks bound together with resins and pigments, artificial stone, also known as engineered or reconstituted stone, or 'quartz', has surged in popularity over the past 20 years, particularly for use in kitchen worktops, they explain.

It has aesthetic appeal. It is easier to work with due to the absence of natural imperfections, and it's more resistant to damage than natural stone, they add.

But its increasing popularity has been accompanied by the emergence of a severe and rapidly progressive form of silicosis (artificial stone silicosis), largely driven by its high (more than 90%) silica content compared with marble (3%) and granite (30%), and the fine dust it generates when cut.

When worktops are prepared for installation, they are also often 'dry' cut and polished with an angle grinder or other hand tools without the use of water to suppress dust generation, further boosting the volume of fine dust, explain the authors.

Cases of artificial stone silicosis have been reported from Israel, Spain, Italy, the USA, China, Australia and Belgium since 2010. But while artificial stone has been used in the UK for a similar period, no cases had been reported until mid-2023, when 8 men were referred to a specialist occupational lung disease clinic.

Their average age was 34, but ranged from 27 to 56 at the time of diagnosis. Six were born outside the UK and seven smoked or used to smoke.

Their average cumulative exposure to stone dust was 12.5 years, but ranged from 440 years. Four of them had been exposed to stone dust for between 4 and 8 years and estimated that 50%100% of the materials they had used were artificial stone with, in some, additional granite, marble, and other 'natural' stones.

Two were assessed for lung transplant; 3 were assessed for autoimmune disease. Two were treated for opportunistic lung infection caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria.

All the men worked for small companies with fewer than 10 employees. Although none worked in worktop manufacture or installation they all carried out the 'finishing' process, specifically cutting and polishing the worktops before installation.

They all reported that this was done without consistent water suppression, and without what they felt was appropriate respiratory protection. And even where workshop ventilation was present, the men stated that the system had not been serviced or cleaned regularly. None of them was aware of active airborne dust monitoring in the workplace.

Against medical advice, three continue to work with artificial stone, and have subsequently reported reduced exposure to visible dust after the introduction of powered respirators and water suppression. Two are no longer working; one has continued to work, but is no longer exposed to the dust; one has died; and one has been lost to further check-ups.

"Onset of disease is likely to relate to exposure levels, suggesting levels, at least for some of the UK caseswere extremely high and implying that employers failed to control dust exposure and to adhere to health and safety regulations," point out the authors.

"The [artificial stone] market is dominated by small companies in which regulation has been shown to be challenging to implement. Furthermore, at least some worktop manufacturers may fail to provide adequate technical information relating to potential risks," they add.

"Even with cessation of exposure, disease progression has been noted in over 50% of cases over [an average] of 4 years. Prevention of disease is therefore critical," they emphasise.

While the number of workers exposed to silica dust isn't known, global experience indicates that cases are likely to increase significantly in the coming years, they point out.

Current UK guidance recommends monitoring workers in the industry after 15 years, but that is very likely to miss cases and fails to account for intensity, not just length, of exposure, they suggest.

"A concerted effort is required in the UK to prevent the epidemic seen in other countries. The cases we present illustrate the failure of the employer to take responsibility for exposure control in their workplaces. National guidelines are urgently needed, as well as work to enumerate the at-risk population and identify cases early," they insist.

"The introduction of a legal requirement to report cases of [artificial stone] silicosis, implementation of health and safety regulation with a focus on small companies, and a UK ban on artificial stone (as introduced in Australia in 2024) must be considered," they urge.

In a linked editorial, Dr Christopher Barber, of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals says that history is instructive, citing the observations of Dr Calvert Holland in 1843 on the health of Sheffield cutlery workers.

These workers shaped metal forks using a rotating grindstone and developed incurable 'grinders asthma' as a result of the very high levels of dust generated by 'dry grinding' forks (without water).

Barber comments: "By design, [artificial stone] worktops (like grindstones) have a very high silica content to make them more hard wearing and durable. Dry processing of [it] with powered tools without the use of water suppression, local exhaust ventilation, and respiratory protective equipment exposes workers to very high levels of airborne silica dust, in many cases two orders of magnitude greater than legal exposure limits."

Holland noted the vulnerability of the cutlery workers, and Barber draws parallels with those working with artificial stone.

"Many of those at risk of [artificial stone] silicosis in the UK, Australia, and USA are migrant workers whose first language is not English, who may have poor understanding of health risks, and limited access to healthcare," he writes.

And they are more likely to have limited financial options, forcing some to continue harmful exposures against medical advice, he adds.

"Considering the availability of [artificial stone] kitchen worktops, the arrival of [artificial stone] silicosis in the UK is one which has been feared by clinicians for some time," he says.

But UK doctors may struggle to differentiate the signs and symptoms from sarcoidosis, a condition that is unrelated to silica inhalation, but which has similar clinical features, he suggests.

"Greater awareness of [artificial stone] silicosis is also required among a wider range of healthcare professionals due to the increased risk of mycobacterial, renal, and autoimmune connective [tissue] disease," he says.

The UK is currently reviewing exposure limits for crystalline silica dust amid mounting international concerns about its health impacts.

To inform the current debate about permissible levels of exposure, researchers in a separate study reviewed for the first time the available evidence published up to the end of February 2023 to establish cumulative risk and identify the exposure level at which that risk would be reduced.

They searched for studies drawing on x-rays, post mortem examination results, and death certificates for silicosis, spanning an average period of more than 20 years since participants' first employment in the stone cutting industry.

Eight studies out of an initial haul of 52 met the eligibility criteria, involving 8792 cases of silicosis among 65,977 participants. Six of the studies involved miners.

The cumulative risk estimates varied substantially, depending on which methodological approach had been used, so the researchers pooled the raw data to recalculate the lifetime cumulative risk and the level at which the absolute risk of developing the disease would be reduced.

The results showed that among miners halving cumulative exposure from 4 mg/m (equivalent to 40 years of work at 0.1 mg/m or 420 cases/1000 workers) to 2 mg/m (equivalent to 40 years of work at 0.05 mg/m intensity) of breathable silica dust corresponded to a substantial reduction in risk of 77%, resulting in 323 fewer cases/1000 workers.

The equivalent figures for those working in other industries were a reduction in risk of 45% and 23 fewer cases per 1000 workers down from 51. But, importantly, these figures are based on only 2 studies, highlight the researchers.

"There is current debate regarding respirable crystalline silica exposure limits in the UK and recent debate among miners in the USA. This research supports the reduction of permissible exposure limits from 0.1 mg/m to 0.05 mg/m" over an 8-hour working shift, conclude the researchers.
A protein called Meteorin-like (METRNL) in the tumor microenvironment saps energy from T cells, thereby severely limiting their ability to fight cancer, according to new research directed by investigators at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center and its Bloomberg~Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy. Finding ways to block the effects of METRNL signaling on tumor-infiltrating T cells may allow these immune cells to regain the energy necessary to eliminate tumors.

A report about the work was published on August 6th, 2024 in the journal Immunity.

METRNL has been described in the medical literature before -; initially as playing a role in helping keep cold or exercising animals (and people) warm by poking holes in the mitochondria (energy factory) of fat cells so they produce heat. However, it had not previously been known to be active in cancer or in T cells, says lead study author Christopher Jackson, M.D., an assistant professor of neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins.

When T cells try to eliminate a tumor, the state of chronic stimulation/stress causes them to secrete METRNL, Jackson explains. Once METRNL is secreted, it interacts with the mitochondria and pokes holes in the electron transport chain, a cluster of proteins participating in a process to create energy. When T cells can no longer keep up with their energy requirements, they stop trying to kill cancer cells, which enables cancer cells to multiply and spread.

Others have shown that metabolic dysfunction limits T cells' ability to fight cancer, but we are among the first to describe a discrete signaling pathway that causes that to happen. Most of the previous work has looked at how the lack of specific nutrients in tumors limits a T cell's ability to function. The problem is this is difficult to modify because it's hard to get the right nutrients into a tumor and direct them to T cells. We potentially can do much better by targeting a signaling pathway because we can block it or turn it on or off, but until now, nobody had identified such a pathway that restores the metabolic health of T cells in tumors." Christopher Jackson, MD, Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins

In a series of laboratory investigations, researchers first studied T cells from the tumor tissue and blood of patients with previously untreated brain tumors (glioblastomas), prostate cancer, bladder cancer and renal cell/kidney cancer, and performed RNA sequencing to try to identify genes responsible for dysfunction in the tumor. METRNL was the gene most highly expressed.

Next, they wanted to find out what makes T cells secrete METRNL in the first place, discovering that the reason was chronic stimulation. Normally, the immune system activates when stimulated to fight an infection and then diminishes when that illness resolves. But in the setting of cancer, T cells are chronically stimulated, which causes them to become dysfunctional. METRNL also was found to be secreted by other immune cells in tumors such as macrophages and dendritic cells, but it acts specifically on T cells.

Additional study determined that METRNL acts directly on the mitochondria, and decouples the electron transport chain. As T cells lose energy and start to fail, they increase their attempts to use glucose (natural sugar) as a backup source of energy. But, because the tumor environment is low in glucose, they continue to flounder and eventually die. This is one of the ways that tumors can continue to grow. Deleting METRNL in models of different cancer types in the researchers' investigations universally delayed tumor growth.

Finally, researchers observed that METRNL is activated through a family of transcription factors (proteins that control the rate of transcription of genetic information from DNA to RNA) called E2F, that it is dependent on signaling by a receptor called PPAR delta, and that modulating these factors downstream can block the effects of METRNL.

The next steps are to determine how this can help patients, Jackson says. He and his colleagues are actively working on different means to target the METRNL-E2F-PPAR delta pathway or to combine targeted treatment with other immunotherapies.

"We think that one of the reasons that some current immunotherapies fail is they require more energy from immune cells that already are functioning at decreased capacity," he says. "Blocking the pathway may allow these immunotherapies that maybe have not been effective in the past to be more effective because there will be enough fuel for the T cells to meet that increased demand."

Study co-authors were Ayush Pant, Aanchal Jain, Eli Yazigi, Liang Zhao, Thomas Nirschl, Christina Kochel, Denis Routkevitch, Kisha Patel, Stephany Tzeng, Sarah Neshat, Barbara Smith, Jordan Green, Chetan Bettegowda, Henry Brem and Drew Pardoll of Johns Hopkins. Additional study co-authors who were at Johns Hopkins at the time the research was conducted were Wikum Dinalankara and Luigi Marchionni of Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, Charles Drake of Janssen Research and Michael Lim of Stanford School of Medicine in Palo Alto, California. Other investigators from Stanford and Asan Medical Center in Seoul, South Korea, contributed to the project.

RNA sequencing was supported by grants through the Bristol Myers Squibb International Immuno-Oncology Network and Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Dinalankara and Marchionni were supported by the National Institutes of Health-National Cancer Institute award R01CA200859.

Jackson is a consultant for Egret Therapeutics with equity interests in the company. He is an inventor on a patent filed by The Johns Hopkins University for using immune checkpoint agonists to treat cerebrovascular disorders. He receives research support from Biohaven, InCephalo and Grifols. His work is funded by philanthropy and the Goldhirsh-Yellin Foundation. The Johns Hopkins University has filed a provisional patent on METRNL blockade for cancer treatment, on which Jackson, Pant, Brem and others are inventors.

Additionally, Bettegowda is a consultant for Depuy-Synthes and Bionaut Labs. Brem is a consultant for Perosphere, AsclepiX Therapeutics, StemGen, Accelerating Combination Therapies, Catalio Nexus Fund II LLC, LikeMinds Inc., Acuity Bio Corp., InSightec, Galen Robotics and Nurami Medical. These relationships are managed by Johns Hopkins University in accordance with its conflict-of-interest policies.
The night before her chemotherapy, Herlinda Sanchez sets out her clothes and checks that she has everything she needs: a blanket, medications, an iPad and chargers, a small Bible and rosary, fuzzy socks, and snacks for the road.

After the 36-year-old was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in December, she learned that there weren't any cancer services in her community of Del Rio, a town of 35,000 near the Texas-Mexico border.

To get treatment, she and her husband, Manuel, must drive nearly three hours east to San Antonio. So they set an alarm for 4 a.m., which allows for just enough time to roll out of bed, brush their teeth, and begin the long drive navigating dark roads while watching for deer.

About an hour before they arrive at the cancer clinic, the couple pulls over to quickly eat fast food in the car. The break gives Herlinda time to apply ointment on the port where the needle for her chemotherapy will be inserted.

"It numbs the area, so when I get to the infusion room the needle won't hurt," she said.

For rural patients, getting cancer treatment close to home has always been difficult. But in recent years, chemotherapy deserts have expanded across the United States, with 382 rural hospitals halting services from 2014 to 2022, according to a report published this year by Chartis, a health analytics and consulting firm.

Texas led that list, with 57 rural hospitals  nearly half of those statewide that had offered chemotherapy  cutting the service by 2022, according to the analysis. Rural hospitals in states like Texas, which hasn't expanded Medicaid, have been more likely to close, according to data from the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research.

To keep the doors open, financially strapped facilities in small communities nationwide continue to shed basic health care services, like obstetrics and chemotherapy, said Michael Topchik, executive director of the Chartis Center for Rural Health.

"The data are staggering," Topchik said. "Can you imagine feeling that sick, and having to drive an hour in each direction, or maybe more each direction, several times a week?"

Loss of chemotherapy services can signal other gaps in cancer care, such as a shortage of local specialty physicians and nurses, which is bad news for patients, said Marquita Lewis-Thames, an assistant professor at Northwestern University in Chicago whose research covers rural cancer care.

Rural patients are less likely to survive at least five years after a cancer diagnosis compared with their urban counterparts, concluded a study co-authored by Lewis-Thames and published in JAMA Network Open in 2022. While the rural-urban survival gap narrowed over the nearly 40 years researchers studied, the disparity persisted across most racial and ethnic groups, with only a few exceptions, she said.

Many cancer drugs are now given orally and can be taken at home, but some treatments for breast, colon, and other common cancers must still be administered intravenously inside a medical facility. Even distances of an hour or two each way can strain patients who already may be coping with nausea, diarrhea, and other side effects, physicians and patient advocates said.

"It's pretty uncomfortable for some of these patients who may have bone metastases or have significant muscular pain and have to sit in the car that long and hit road bumps," said Shivum Agarwal, a family physician who practices in rural communities an hour west of Fort Worth, Texas.

Plus, travel can cost much more than filling the gas tank.

"Usually it requires an able-bodied family member taking off a whole day or at least half a day from work," Agarwal said. "So, there's a big economic cost for the family."

In this sense, the Sanchez family is fortunate. Herlinda's mother drives four hours from Abilene to Del Rio to watch the couple's youngest children, their 2-year-old twins.

Cancer infusions can last as long as eight hours on top of the travel time, causing significant financial and logistical challenges, said Erin Ercoline, executive director of the San Antonio-based ThriveWell Cancer Foundation. The nonprofit provides adult patients with financial assistance, including for gaps in insurance and transportation-related costs. It has helped cover gasoline for Sanchez, who received her final round of chemotherapy in late June. The financial assistance will also pay for her hotel when she travels for breast surgery this month.

Not all rural hospitals are ending chemotherapy. Childress Regional Medical Center, a 39-bed hospital in West Texas, is constructing a 6,000-square-foot center for patients who need infusions for cancer and other diagnoses, including multiple sclerosis and rheumatology.

The infusion area, which started with two chairs in 2013 and now has four, will grow to 10 chairs and have more patient privacy when it opens next year. The next-nearest infusion center in this sprawling region is an hour or more away, which discourages some patients from seeking care, said Childress' CEO, Holly Holcomb.

"We've had a handful of patients say, 'If you can't do it here, I'm not doing it,'" Holcomb said. She credits the federal 340B drug discount program for enabling the remote hospital to provide infusion drugs.

Hospitals that qualify for 340B can buy outpatient drugs at steep discounts. The program provides "a huge kickstand for rural hospitals," said Topchik, of Chartis Center. Hospitals can use the savings to buoy or expand services provided to the community, he said.

But some patients are not daunted by long drives and travel costs.

"I'm from the country, so small is better  it's just more personable," said Dennis Woodward, 69, who lives in Woodson, Texas. He has a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chooses to make a two-hour drive to Childress. He had first visited an oncology clinic in Abilene about an hour away. The clinicians were nice, but "I felt like a number," he said.

After his first appointment at Childress this year, his oncologist, Fred Hardwicke, walked him over to meet the nurses who would administer the medicine, Woodward recalled.

Most Fridays during Herlinda Sanchez's chemotherapy, Manuel would nap in the car. But during her final treatment in June, he stayed nearby, counting down the hours.

Several family members joined Herlinda when she rang the bell later that afternoon to signal the end of her treatment.

"I don't want to be in San Antonio no more," said Herlinda, a mother of four who does administrative work at Laughlin Air Force Base near Del Rio. "I'm looking forward to the break."
Even since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh on Monday, chaos continues in the neighbouring country. The situation led to tough times for FMCG companies such as Marico, Dabur, Hindustan Unilever, Nestle, PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola. According to reports, the companies have advised their employees to stay indoors and work from home, while some have even suspended sales operations till the situation returns to normal.

Indian FMCG companies including Marico, Dabur, Emami and HUL have a presence in Bangladesh accounting for overall revenues in the range of 1-5 per cent.

Rohit Jawa, managing director of HUL, said, as reported by ET: We hope the situation stabilises soon, because it is very important country for Unilever. As soon as the situation normalises we will be back in operation because like in HUL, we sell a whole lot of daily goods and essential needs in Bangladesh. So, the sooner we can go back to operations, and the sooner we can start supplying again, the better is, also for the consumers.

According to the ET report, Saugata Gupto, managing director of Marico, whose 44 per cent of international revenue comes from Bangladesh, said, The Bangladesh business has held firm in a challenging environment on the back of a broad-based portfolio and robust portfolio. We remain watchful in the current on-ground situation.

Marico had fallen over 5 per cent immediately after PM Hasina fled Bangladesh and the country fell into chaos.

What Will Be the Overall Impact of the Bangladesh Crisis on India Inc?

Suman Chowdhury, chief economist and head (research) at Acuite Ratings & Research, said, While Bangladesh is an important trade partner for India, the impact of the severe political crisis there will have a very limited impact on Indias overall trade volumes. The exports to Bangladesh account for only 2.5 per cent of Indias total merchandise exports.

However, specific industry segments where exports to that country constitute a large share such as cotton yarn, may witness a material impact in the near term; on the other hand, this can also be an opportunity for Indian RMG players who had lost export markets earlier to Bangladesh, he said.

Indian manufacturing and infrastructure companies having business or project operations or supply linkages therein are likely to witness some disruption and uncertainty in the near term. Importantly, the current scenario may lead to deferment or slowdown of fresh investments by Indian companies in the neighbouring country pending the establishment of a stable government. The proposed FTA with Bangladesh will also be put on the backburner under the current circumstances, Chowdhury added.
Stocks To Watch On August 7: Indian markets traded volatile after Mondays decline and settled marginally lower on Tuesday amid mixed signals. In todays trade, shares of Pidilite, Godrej Consumer, PB Fintech, Gland Pharma, and Tata Power among others will be in focus due to various news developments and first-quarter results.

Earnings Watch: Godrej Cons, Apollo Tyres, Sula Vineyards, Welspun Corp, Zee Media Corporation, Chemplast Sanmar, Godfrey Phillips, Gujarat Pipavav Port, Happy Forgings, ITD Cementation, NHPC, NLC India, Coromandel International, KIMS, Dr Lal PathLabs, Aadhar Housing Finance, Abbott India, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail, Lemon Tree Hotels.

Real Estate stocks: The government has introduced an amendment that provides taxpayers with a choice for calculating long-term capital gains taxes on property purchases made before July 23, 2024. Taxpayers can now opt for either the new 12.5 per cent rate without indexation or the previous 20 percent rate with indexation, allowing them to select the option that results in a more favourable tax outcome.

Tata Power: Tata Powers profit slipped 0.2 per cent to Rs 970.9 crore from Rs 972.5 crore, but revenue increased 13.7 per cent to Rs 17,293.6 crore from Rs 15,213.3 crore. Tata Power also announced plans to acquire a 40 per cent stake in Khorlochhu Hydro Power for Rs 830 crore and received board approval for the termination and delisting of its Global Depository Shares (GDSs) Programme.

SBI: State Bank of India will see Challa Sreenivasulu Setty appointed as Chairman for a three-year term starting August 28, with Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh taking on the role of Managing Director.

PB Fintech: PB Fintech posted a profit of Rs 60 crore, an improvement from a loss of Rs 11.9 crore. Revenue surged 52 per cent to Rs 1,010 crore from Rs 666 crore, while adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) jumped 117 per cent to Rs 49 crore and the adjusted Ebitda margin expanded to 5 per cent from 3 per cent.

Lupin: Lupins profit surged 77.2 per cent to Rs 801.3 crore in Q1FY25 compared to Rs 452.3 crore in the previous year (Q1FY24). Revenue also saw an increase of 16.3 per cent, rising to Rs 5,600.3 crore from Rs 4,814 crore. Bosch experienced a 13.8 per cent growth in profit to Rs 465.4 crore from Rs 409 crore, with revenue up 3.8 per cent at Rs 4,316.8 crore, compared to Rs 4,158.4 crore.

Cummins India: Cummins India reported a 33 per cent increase in profit to Rs 419.8 crore from Rs 315.7 crore, with revenue up 4.3 per cent at Rs 2,304.2 crore compared to Rs 2,208.7 crore. The company saw a change in leadership, with Ashwath Ram resigning as managing director, and Shveta Arya appointed as additional director and managing director (designate).

Linde India: Linde India reported a 13.8 per cent increase in profit to Rs 113.7 crore from Rs 99.88 crore, but revenue fell 9.4 per cent to Rs 653.2 crore from Rs 721 crore.

VIP Industries: VIP Industries experienced a major profit drop of 93 per cent to Rs 4.04 crore from Rs 57.8 crore, though revenue rose slightly by 0.4 per cent to Rs 638.9 crore from Rs 636.1 crore. The company reported no exceptional gains compared to Rs 25.78 crore in the previous year.

PI Industries: The company reported a 17.2 per cent increase in profit to Rs 448.8 crore from Rs 382.9 crore, with revenue growing 8.3 per cent to Rs 2,068.9 crore from Rs 1,910.4 crore.

Gulf Oil: Gulf Oil India saw a 24 per cent jump in profit to Rs 84.3 crore from Rs 68 crore, with revenue increasing 10.1 per cent to Rs 894 crore from Rs 811.7 crore.

Rain Industries: Rain Industries saw a loss of Rs 44.9 crore in Q1FY25 compared to a profit of Rs 206.5 crore in the previous year. Revenue declined by 11.5 per cent to Rs 4,094.1 crore from Rs 4,627 crore.

Krsnaa Diagnostics: Krsnaa Diagnostics reported a 22.4 per cent increase in profit to Rs 17.9 crore from Rs 14.6 crore year-over-year, with revenue growing 22 per cent to Rs 170.2 crore from Rs 139.6 crore. The company also saw a change in leadership, with Prashant Pandurangrao Deshmukh resigning as CEO.

Bata India: Bata India saw a 62.8 per cent rise in profit to Rs 174 crore from Rs 106.9 crore, although revenue fell by 1.4 per cent to Rs 944.6 crore from Rs 958.1 crore. The company also reported an exceptional gain of Rs 133.95 crore.

Gujarat Gas: Gujarat Gas faced a 19.5 per cent decline in profit to Rs 329.8 crore from Rs 409.5 crore, while revenue grew 7.6 per cent to Rs 4,450.3 crore from Rs 4,134.2 crore. The company reported no exceptional gains this quarter, compared to Rs 55.69 crore in the previous quarter.

Gland Pharma: Gland Pharma saw a 26 per cent decrease in profit to Rs 143.8 crore from Rs 194.1 crore, despite a 16 per cent increase in revenue to Rs 1,401.7 crore from Rs 1,208.7 crore.

EIH: EIH reported an 8.8 per cent decline in profit to Rs 96.8 crore from Rs 106 crore, with revenue growing 5.7 per cent to Rs 526.5 crore from Rs 498.1 crore.

GR Infra: The construction company has emerged as the lowest bidder for establishing a transmission scheme for the integration of Tumkur-II REZ in Karnataka.

Fortis Healthcare: The company witnessed a 40.4 per cent increase in profit to Rs 173.98 crore from Rs 123.95 crore, with revenue rising 12.1 per cent to Rs 1,858.9 crore from Rs 1,657.4 crore.

Chambal Fert: Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals saw a 32.4 per cent increase in profit to Rs 448.3 crore from Rs 338.6 crore, despite a revenue decline of 11.7 per cent to Rs 4,933.2 crore from Rs 5,589.3 crore.

Suzlon Energy: Suzlon Energy to acquire a 76 per cent stake in Renom Energy Services from the Sanjay Ghodawat Group in two tranches, beginning with a 51 per cent stake for Rs 400 crore and an additional 25 per cent stake within 18 months for Rs 260 crore.
Sheikh Hasina, the countrys Prime Minister has resigned and fled from Bangladesh and is expected to reportedly stay in India for the next few days. This situation has occurred due to the massive student protests calling for an end to the governments quota system. Hasina had started her career as a student leader in college politics only. This space articulates comprehensive details about the veteran politicians educational qualifications, her knowledge of the languages, etc.

Educational Qualifications

Sheikh Hasina attended primary school in her village of Tungipara. When her family moved to Dhaka, she attended the Azimpur Girls School and Begum Badrnnesa Girls College. She enrolled for a bachelors degree at Eden College. The 76-year-old politician was elected as the Vice President of the Students Union in Eden College between 1966 and 1967. Sheikh Hasina also became involved in the politics of the Students League or the Bangladesh Chhatra League. She was also elected as the general secretary of the womens unit in Rokeya Hall.

Sheikh Hasinas command of languages

Sheikh Hasina is proficient in three languages, i.e.- Bengali, English and Hindi. The veteran politician has also studied Bengali literature at Dhaka University. She earned her bachelors degree from this university in 1973.

Sheikh Hasinas birth

Sheikh Hasina was born on 28 September 1947 to the Bengali Muslim Sheikh family of Tungipara of East Bengal. She is the daughter of the Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first president of an independent Bangladesh. He was the principal orchestrator of Bangladeshs separation from Pakistan in 1971. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with Hasinas mother and three brothers were assassinated on August 15, 1975.

No clarity about the Asylum

As of now, it has been 24 hours after Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka and landed at Delhis Hindon base. It is still unclear where her final destination will be, as The Hindu confirmed that the United Kingdom is unlikely to accept her request for asylum. The report states that she is discussing options with other countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, apart from those where her immediate family resides: the US, UK, Finland and India.
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings, sometimes known as the THE Rankings, are an annual release of university rankings by the Times Higher Education magazine. Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at Times Higher Education, discussed Indias improvement in global university rankings since the World University Rankings were established in 2004. Baty expressed his enthusiasm over the previous two decades as he witnessed Indias tremendous progress in higher education.

Baty was quoted by ANI as saying that he developed the worlds most thorough and balanced rating system for global research universities. Observing how the global ranking of Indian colleges changed over the past 20 years has been interesting. Weve seen an extraordinary growth in participation from India. When I first came to India 15 years ago, there was a sense that India didnt want to be on the world stage and didnt want to worry about global rankings and global metrics, Baty added.

Baty drew attention to the notable rise in the sheer number of Indian universities taking part in international rankings. Additionally, he said that the rankings we have been seeing for the past ten years are the result of global levelling, adding that twenty years ago, Indian universities were hardly included in the rankings at all. In contrast, India will have an unprecedented 107 universities in the upcoming October 2025 ranking, matching the United Kingdom and ranking third best-represented in the world.

According to ANI, Baty commended PM Modis ambitious vision and dedication to modernising Indias education system, stating that he has achieved an impressive mix of expansion and quality. Indian colleges are increasingly making a stronger social and economic effect by focusing on the countrys economic demands.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Indian colleges success in THE World University Rankings in June of this year. According to current Times Higher Education figures, Indian university enrolment has surged dramatically since 2016. In 2016, 31 universities participated, and the number has since climbed to 133. The worldwide rankings featured participation from up to 124 universities in 2024. This places India as the fourth-most represented country in the rankings.
In yet another hint that assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are on track for next month, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the union territory has sought to hire two helicopters for the polls for a period between September and November.

News18 has accessed two bid documents issued by the Chief Electoral Officer of J&K on August 6 asking for the hiring of a single-engine chopper and a helicopter ambulance for assembly elections in the UT. The documents say the Election Commission wants the helicopters for tentative 30-45 days during the period from September 2024 to November 2024.

Dates are yet to be decided for the Electiononce announced by the ECI the same will be communicated, the document says.

Poll Body To Review J&K Situation

Incidentally, the full team of the Election Commission of India (ECI) will be in J&K for three days starting August 8 to review the situation ahead of assembly elections for which the Supreme Court has fixed a deadline of September 30. The J&K polls could be spread over 5-6 phases if the security establishment gives a go-ahead to ECI.

Earlier, the poll body asked the union territory of J&K to finalise the electoral rolls by August 20 and also transfer all election officials posted in their home districts by the same date. The last assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir were held a decade ago, and the erstwhile state was split into two UTs after Article 370 and 35A were abrogated five years ago by the Centre.

What Does ECI Need Choppers For?

The bid document says the helicopter ambulance and the single-engine chopper are intended to be stationed at any location within Jammu and Kashmir and the exact location will be communicated by the Chief Electoral Officer depending upon the requirement and the election phases.

The period and number of days can be changed depending on the actual schedule of Legislative Assembly Elections in UT of Jammu and Kashmir. The period and number of days shall be communicated accordingly. The Helicopter will be utilized for the transportation of election officials, candidates, and essential election materials during the Assembly Elections in Jammu and Kashmir as per requirement. In the event of an emergency, the helicopters may be required for swift response and evacuation procedures, as directed by the CEO, J&K, the documents say.

The helicopter ambulance may be used for transferring patients to a designated super speciality hospital in Jammu or Srinagar and there will be the availability of sufficient stock of life-saving drugs on the chopper, along with two qualified doctors.

Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog.
The student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, one of the largest Islamist parties of Bangladesh, could be behind the anti-Sheikh Hasina protests that left more than 400 dead, reports suggest. The outfit is believed to be backed by Pakistani intelligence agency ISI.

Islami Chatra Shibi cadres were admitted to many universities in Bangladesh from where they instigated students against the government, as per a report by India Today. Most protesters who demanded scrapping of the quota for kin of war veterans were university students.

The main centres of the Islami Chhatra Shibir are Dhaka University, Chittagong University, Jahangir University, Sylhet University, and Rajshahi University. Interestingly, all the student organisations who won the university elections in the last three years had a backing of Islami Chatra Shibir, the India Today report said.

What is Jamaat-e-Islami?

The Jamaat-e-Islami was founded in 1975 by Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi, a figure associated with the Muslim Brotherhood, with the mission to establish an Islamic state. The name translates to congregation of Islam, while Chhatra Shibir means student camp. The organisations ideology promotes an Islamic conquest, aiming to bring the world under Islamic rule.

The organisation is among the largest Islamist parties in Bangladesh, and had allied with former Prime Minister Khaleda Zias Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the past.

The organisation was initially banned by the first government led by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for collaborating with Pakistani forces during the 1971 Liberation War. Jamaat members were implicated in forming auxiliary forces such as Razakar, Al-Badr, Al-Shams, and the Peace Committee, which were involved in atrocities against Bengali freedom fighters, particularly targeting Hindus.

The Election Commission of Bangladesh cancelled Jamaats registration in 2013 following a court ruling, a decision upheld by the Supreme Courts Appellate Division in 2023.

On August 1, 2024, the Bangladesh government officially banned Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, designating them as terrorist organisations under Section 18/1 of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009. The Sheikh Hasina government accused the party of instigating violent protests over the last couple of months over the government job quota system.

How Jamaat Got Noticed?

Not just Bangladesh, Jaamat-e-Islam remains a political force in Pakistan despite its involvement in militant activities through its student wing Islami Jamiat-e-Talaba. The organisation has connections with various militant groups, including Gaza-based Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Muslim Brotherhood.

In Europe and the US, the Jamaat has established a network through South Asian immigrant communities. It is particularly active in the UK, where it influences Islamic organisations and community politics. The US has been a strong advocate for Jamaats political participation, often urging Bangladesh to lift restrictions on the group.

How Jamaat Penetrated Bangladesh Politics

After the assassination of Bangladeshs first president and the military coup in 1975, the ban on the Jamaat was lifted and the new party, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh, was formed. Exiled leaders were allowed to return. Abbas Ali Khan was the acting Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh. The Jamaat agenda was the creation of an Islamic state with the Sharia legal system, and outlawing un-Islamic practices and laws. For this reason, it interprets their central political concept Iqamat-e-Deen as establishing Islamic state by possession of state power, as per an article titled Islam and Democracy in South Asia: the case of Bangladesh.

In the 1980s, the Jamaat joined the multi-party alliance. It also allied with Ziaur Rahmans BNP and Jamaat leaders became ministers in the two BNP-led regimes of prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia (from 1991 to 1996 and from 2001 to 2006). Awami League also got involved with Jamaat to come to power in 1996. In 2008, it won two of 300 elected seats in Parliament.

In 2010 the government, led by the Awami League, began prosecution of war crimes committed during the 1971 war under the International Crimes Tribunal. By 2012, two leaders of the BNP, one leader from Jatiyo Party and eight of Jamaat had been charged with war crimes, and by March 2013, three Jamaat leaders had been convicted of crimes. In response, the Jamaat held major strikes and protests across the country, which led to more than 60 deaths (mostly by security forces), destruction of public properties. This prompted calls from the secular community and groups to ban Jamaat as a political party.

The list of Ameers in Jamaat-e-Islam included Mawlana Muhammad Abdur Rahim (19561960), Professor Ghulam Azam (19602000), Abbas Ali Khan (Acting), Motiur Rahman Nizami (20002016), Mawlana Maqbul Ahmed (20162019) and Dr. Shafiqur Rahman (2019present).

Crackdown on Jamaat After 2013 Shahbag Protest

The activists of the 2013 Shahbag Protest demanded that the government ban Jamaat from Bangladeshi politics. The protest started on February 5, 2013, when thousands of people stormed Shahbagh Square to protest the verdict on Abdul Quader Mollah who was sentenced to life in prison by the International Crimes Tribunal.

On February 28, 2013 Delwar Hossain Sayeedi, the deputy of Jamaat, was found guilty of genocide, rape and religious persecution. He was sentenced to death by hanging. His defence lawyer had earlier complained that a witness who was supposed to testify for him was abducted from the gates of the courthouse on November 5, 2012, reportedly by the police, and has not been heard from since. The government did not seem to take the issue seriously after the prosecution denied there was a problem.

Another Jamaat leader, Muhammad Kamaruzzaman, senior assistant secretary general of Jamaat-e-Islami, was indicted on June 7, 2012 on seven counts of crimes against humanity. On May 9, 2013, he was convicted and given the death penalty on five counts of mass killings, rape, torture and kidnapping.

Ghulam Azam, ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh until 2000, was found guilty by the International Crime Tribunal on five counts. Incitement, conspiracy, planning, abatement and failure to prevent murder. He was sentenced on July 15, 2013 to 90 years imprisonment.

Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mojaheed, Secretary General of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami was sentenced to death by hanging on November 22, 2015.

Chowdhury Mueen-Uddin, who fled to the UK after the liberation of Bangladesh and a leader of the London-based Jamaat organisation Dawatul Islam, was indicted for crimes against humanity and genocide and being a leader of the Al-Badr militia. He was also accused of the murder of Bangladeshs top intellectuals during the 1971 war, although he has denied all charges.
Bangladeshs ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasinas visa was reportedly revoked by the US as she is exploring her options for asylum in the UAE and European countries after the UK shot down her request for refuge.

Hasina fled Dhaka after students continued their protests in the streets and demanded her resignation over the quota reserved for kin of 1971 war veterans. The protests turned into violent clashes resulting in more than 400 deaths.

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 from Myanmar. But the US had increasingly criticised her for autocratic tendencies and imposed visa sanctions over concerns on democracy.

The relations between Bangladesh and the US have witnessed a few hiccups over the past few months, with the Joe Biden administration calling the Asian countrys general elections unfair and not free. In fact, the US announced visa restrictions for officials and politicians in Bangladesh in the run-up to the elections.

According to Daily Star, the Biden administration used Bangladesh as a test case for its value-based foreign policy. It advocated tirelessly for greater respect for human rights, for democratic principles, and especially for free and fair elections. It deployed various tacticsrelentless public messaging, meetings with political party leaders, written appeals for different political parties to work out differences, and sanctions and visa restrictions.

Bangladeshs Dependence on US

The US considers Bangladesh to be the centerpiece of its Indo-Pacific Strategy due to its geostrategic position in the Bay of Bengal and its growing economic prowess.

The US seeks to sign The General Security of Military Information Agreement and the Acquisition Cross-Servicing Agreement, to further strengthen security in the Indo-Pacific.

The US is the largest importer of Bangladeshi products, importing $8.3 billion in 2021. US companies are the largest foreign investors in Bangladesh, making the US top source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in 2021. US companies have made $4.3 billion in investments as of 2021, which accounts for 20% of the total FDI stock in Bangladesh. Over the past 50 years, the US has invested over $8 billion Bangladesh.

US Alleges Human Rights Violation

Since the creation of Bangladesh in 1971, the US became one of the first countries to recognise it as an independent nation.

The US has been dissatisfied with the human rights and democracy violation in Bangladesh as a result it imposed sanctions over allegations of human rights abuse on former and current high-level officials of Bangladeshs Rapid Action Battalion.

Peter Haas, the American Ambassador to Bangladesh, who met the families of victims of alleged abductions, was critical of the human rights situation in the country. When he was questioned about the USs interest in Bangladeshs domestic affairs, Haas maintained that the Biden administrations key foreign policy focus is on democracy and human rights.

Later, Dhaka established a Human Rights Cell under the United Nations to monitor the human rights situation in the country; increased diplomatic communications and state-level visits between 2021-2022; maintained a neutral political stance on the Ukraine conflict; and complied with the US sanctions.

But in February 2023, US State Department Counsellor Derek Chollet voiced concerns over the decline of democracy in Bangladesh and warned that this would limit cooperation with the US.

Sheikh Hasinas Criticism of US

Even after Biden wished Sheikh Hasina on Bangladeshs Independence Day last year, Hasina chastised the US for handling of its human rights and democracy. She stated, In America, it is seen almost every day, people enter schools with weapons and shoot children and teachers, enter shopping malls and clubs and shoot there as well.

She accused Washington of conspiring against her government. Without naming the US, she recently claimed that a country is plotting to establish an air base and a Christian state like that of Timor-Leste, using the territories of Bangladesh and Myanmar, as mentioned in a report The Diplomat. US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu denied these allegations.

She also accused the US of seeking a regime change in Bangladesh, and said, They are trying to eliminate democracy and introduce a government that will not have a democratic existence They can overthrow the government in any country, particularly Muslim countries. As long as they were controlling over Islamic countries, nothing happened.

Protests broke out a few blocks away from the White House when Hasina reached Washington DC on April 28, 2023 to attend the celebrations of the 50-year partnership between the World Bank and Bangladesh. The protesters called out alleged autocracy and economic mismanagement in Bangladesh.

US Programmes in Bangladesh

At present, the US is Bangladeshs third largest trading partner  the largest market for its Ready-Made Garments (RMG); the largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI); and the largest investor in its energy sector.

The United States Agency for International Development in Bangladesh has some of the worlds most important food security and health programmes. It also oversees assistance in the Rohingya crisis in Bangladesh.

The US also donated more than 100 million vaccine doses to Bangladesh, which proved instrumental in the countrys national inoculation process.
Speaker of Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly and Narsipatnam MLA (Member of Legislative Assembly), Ch Ayyanna Patrudu, is currently in the spotlight. According to Local 18 Andhra Pradesh, he was clicked along with his wife Padmavathi at the Tuni Railway Station, Andhra Pradesh. The Andhra Pradesh speaker was to travel by Godavari train to Vijayawada. was dressed in modest clothes, i.e.- a shirt and lungi. His wife was dressed in a sari. They were sitting at a cement block and were waiting for their train. The fellow commuters were shocked to see the politician amongst them without any VIP treatment, opting for transportation taken by the people in general. The Andhra Pradesh politician asked the people several questions, i.e.- their destination and well-being under the administration. He also inquired whether they were facing any other problems and their suggestions. The citizens were happy to see Ayyanna Patrudus simple nature and how he mixed up with the people.

Ayyanna Patrudu has won as an MLA several times and served in almost all ministerial posts. He mostly continues to visit Narsipatnam because his hometown is situated here. He has also served as a member of parliament from the Anakapalle, a suburb of Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

Ayyanna Patrudus family in politics

As per an article published in the Times of India in 2014, he had asked for a ticket for his son Chintakayala Vijay from the Anakapalle seat. As per the reports, he felt that the visible presence of the people from the Koppula Velama community would ensure victory for his son. He had also relied on his cadre support in the constituency. Vijay became actively involved in the party during the elections conducted in 2013. He also took care of the N Chandrababu Naidus Vastunna Meekosam padayatra. Apart from these, he played an important role in the panchayat elections. However, at that time Chandrababu had not given any assurance to Ayyanna Patrudu about his sons candidature in politics.

Chintakayala Vijay is currently serving as the State General Secretary of the Telugu Desam Party. He has completed his Masters in political management at George Washington University.

Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog.
The Delhi High Court on Monday sought a report from the authorities on the recent death of 14 inmates at the city government-run Asha Kiran shelter home for the mentally challenged, noting that nearly all the deceased suffered from tuberculosis (TB).

Questioning how TB was rampant in the shelter home, a bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan directed the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to test the quality of water as well as the condition of water and sewer pipelines. It also ordered the social welfare department secretary to visit the premises on August 6. Both the DJB and social welfare department secretary were asked to file their reports to the court.

The court said the large number of deaths cannot be a co-incidence and curative measures should be put in place first and foremost in the shelter home. Fourteen people, including a child, died at the shelter home in the month of July.

Just too many deaths in a short span of time. Fourteen deaths in just one month. Large number of deaths. It cannot be a coincidence, the bench, also comprising Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, remarked.

There cant be an outbreak of TB in a shelter home Today the situation needs to be salvaged. If we can save a few lives, we must do it. What needs to be done immediately is that curative measures need to be put in place first and foremost. We dont want people to suffer in the process, the court added while listing the matter for further hearing on August 7.

The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking constitution of an independent committee headed by a retired high court judge to probe the incident or in the alternative, to refer the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Since February, 25 inmates have died at the centre, currently housing 980 intellectually disabled persons, including men, women and children, according to official data.

The petitioners counsel said it was a very grave matter involving severe lapses by authorities.

Petitioner Samadhan Abhiyan also sought a direction to the authorities to carry out a social audit of all shelter homes.

The Delhi government counsel said out of the 14 deceased, only one was a minor, and maximum deaths happened in the hospital where they were being treated.

He claimed the deceased, who were found in precarious condition before they were brought to the shelter home, had comorbidities, and a magisterial inquiry into the deaths has already been announced by city minister Atishi.

There is a team of doctors and nurses in the shelter home and the exact details with respect to the deaths would be known after the postmortem reports are received, the counsel added.

A cursory glance of the summary shows that nearly all the deceased were suffering from TB. DJB is directed to test the quality of water as well as condition of the water and sewer pipelines and file a report before the next date of hearing. The secretary, social welfare department, GNCTD is directed to visit the Asha Kiran complex tomorrow and file a report before this court, the court ordered after hearing the parties.

The court said a criminal investigation and fixing of responsibility were needed but today the situation has to be salvaged, and asked the authorities to ensure there is clean drinking water in the shelter home and steps are taken to maintain hygiene and decongest it, if required.

Inquiry can wait, what needs to be done is carry out some curative measures. If there is some problem in the establishment, we must rectify and some curative measures need to be taken, the court said.

On being asked who the in-charge of the shelter home was, the court was told that Rahul Agarwal, a DANICS (Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep, Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli (Civil) Services) officer, was the administrator.

As the Delhi government counsel informed the court that certain recommendations have been made with respect to overcrowding at the shelter home, the bench remarked it was time for action, and not recommendations.

This is not a time for recommendation; this is the time for action. Once the minister has visited and she passes an order, it will be done today. There is nothing else required. There is no one over and above the minister, the court said.

Counsel for the DJB assured that the authorities will do whatever has to be done in the case.

The court asked the DJB to check for water contamination without waiting for a complaint.

This matter brooks no delay. Please ensure that the social welfare secretary visits the place and changes that have to be brought about, he must do that, the court said.

Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog.
The family of the 12-year-old girl who was gang-raped by a local Samajwadi Party (SP) member and his employee in Ayodhya gave consent to terminate her 12-week-old pregnancy. She underwent an abortion at KGMUs Queen Mary Hospital on Tuesday. A sample of the fetus was taken for DNA testing, which will be used to identify the culprits.

We are prepared to conduct DNA tests to strengthen the case against the accused, a senior police officer said.

The victim was referred from Ayodhya to Lucknow on Monday. Her condition is reported to be normal and she will be discharged from the hospital soon.

Regarding the decision about the abortion, it was made by her mother and siblings. No other family members were aware of it. Police have been deployed at the house for their security, the uncle of the girl told Indian Express.

Child Welfare Committee (Ayodhya) chairperson Sarvesh Awasthi said that a woman aide has been appointed to take care of the girl. The support person, appointed under the provisions of the POCSO Act, will stay with and support the girl, he said.

The Incident

Moid Khan, SPs city president of Bhadrasa and his aide Raju Khan allegedly abused the 12-year-old around three months ago, said police. Over the next two-and-a-half months, Khan continued to sexually abuse the girl and used a video of the assault to intimidate and threaten her. Khan committed these acts with the assistance of Raju Khan. The situation came to light when the minor was found to be pregnant, a press issued by the state government stated.

On July 30, both the accused were arrested and sent to jail.

On August 3, a bakery owned by Moid Khan in Ayodhya was bulldozed under heavy police surveillance a day after Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met with the victims mother and assured her of justice.

Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog.
It was in June 2024 that Bangladesh was ranked the third most peaceful country in South Asia, leaving behind India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, according to the Global Peace Index (GPI), 2024. Cut to August and Indias neighbour is in the throes of the worst-possible uprising that has seen former prime minister Sheikh Hasina flee to India as the military takes over the country.

The rankings, surprisingly, also placed Sri Lanka ahead of India, with the former ranked at 100 versus Indias 116. It was just two years ago when decades of economic mismanagement resulted in a major crisis in Sri Lanka as a foreign currency shortage made it difficult for the government to pay for the import of basic items like oil. Prices of everyday goods and food items soared, with electricity cuts for long periods, pushing the aam aadmi to the brink and triggering an uprising that saw President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and PM Mahinda Rajapaksa being forced to resign.

ALSO READ | How Bangladesh Violence Is A Reminder Of Protests In Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Myanmar Over Past 2 Years

The rankings of not just Indias neighbours but countries like the United Kingdom, which is facing the worst-possible riots in decades after an anti-immigrant misinformation campaign stoked outrage over a stabbing attack that left three children dead in Southport, are also much higher  an anomaly that seems to have caught the attention of social media users.

Several X users took to the social networking platform to call out the bias against India, sharing images of rioting and instability from the countries touted to be more peaceful.

ALSO READ | Why Are Riots Taking Place In UK? Who Are The Far-Right Groups Behind The Violence?

A gentle reminder of the Global Peace Index India Rank  116 Bangladesh  93 How shameless can these bodies be!, a user said, sharing a screenshot of the peace index report.

GLOBAL PEACE INDEX 2024RANKINGS UK  34Bangladesh  93Sri Lanka  100 India  116 pic.twitter.com/ZKzCChwNlC  Major Gaurav Arya (Retd) (@majorgauravarya) August 6, 2024

Global Peace index ratings 2024:Bangladesh : 93th rankedIndia : 116th ranked Just sharing!! pic.twitter.com/zmmun1i7G3  Masoom V (@iamMasoomV) August 6, 2024

Another user, while calling out the index, said they were just measures of how much of a USA vassal state you are.

Being as drunk as Global Peace Index is still a fantasy of mine pic.twitter.com/KS5tet8KpX Tribhuwan (@tribhuwan_0196) August 6, 2024

What More Does the Index Say?

The Institute for Economics and Peaces annual Global Peace Index provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the peacefulness of nations, assessing the level of peacefulness in 163 countries and territories around the world.

Western Europe is recognised as the most peaceful region globally in the 2024 GPI, with seven of the top 10 most peaceful countries located there and even ranking in the top three.

Iceland has retained its position as the most peaceful country in the world since 2008.

New Zealand is the most peaceful country in the Pacific region and is ranked 4th globally in the 2024 GPI. Singapore and Malaysia are the most peaceful countries in Asia, ranking 5th and 10th globally, respectively.

The United States, meanwhile, experienced a 5.7 per cent drop in peacefulness, primarily due to an increase in politically motivated assaults and mass shootings.

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Dhananjay Kumar, a 26-year-old resident of Kanjanpur village in Bihars Golapganj, experienced a dramatic turn of events at Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on July 30. The young man, who was elated to start a new job abroad, found himself in legal trouble after his Kyrgyzstan visa was discovered to be fraudulent.

Dhananjay had received an employment offer in Kyrgyzstan and had planned his journey to reach his dream city via the UAE. Armed with his air ticket and a visa, he arrived at Delhi airport, where he was accompanied by relatives who came to bid him farewell.

Upon completing his check-in at Terminal 3, Dhananjay proceeded to the Bureau of Immigration counter for a routine check of his travel documents. It was here that officials uncovered the forgery  Dhananjays Kyrgyzstan visa was identified as fake. This revelation shocked him and led to his immediate detention by Bureau of Immigration officers.

Following preliminary interrogation, Dhananjay was transferred to the custody of IGI Airport Police. The police have filed charges against him under Section 318(4), 336(3), 340(2), and 61 of the Indian Penal Code, as well as the Passport Act. During questioning, Dhananjay disclosed that he had procured the fake visa through an agent named Rehmat for Rs 2 lakh. He had been introduced to Rehmat by an individual named Munna Singh.

In response to the incident, a special team led by Inspector Sumit was formed to locate and apprehend Munna Singh and Rehmat. Rehmatullah Asari, the accused agent, was soon arrested by Bihar Police in Gopalganj. IGI Airport DCP Usha Rangnani is overseeing the ongoing investigation into the case.

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One person received burn injuries after an explosion in a cafe in South Kolkata on Wednesday, a local municipal councillor said.

The injured person has been shifted to hospital for treatment, she said.

A boy who works at the cafe at Jodhpur Park sustained burn injuries after an explosion, which blew off the shutter and broke the windows. We initially thought it might have been caused by an LPG cylinder blast, said local councillor Mousumi Das.

Police and the fire brigade arrived after we informed them, she added.

The fire brigade and police said that the cause of the blast is under investigation.

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The Border Security Force (BSF) on Wednesday stopped hundreds of Bangladeshi nationals who were attempting to cross into India at the international border in West Bengals Jalpaiguri district.

The fleeing Bangladeshi nationals claimed they were under attack in their home country.

500-600 Bangladeshis stopped by BSF from crossing Indian border. pic.twitter.com/lmr0Rq7bzJ Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) August 7, 2024

According to a BSF official, although the Bangladeshis gathered at the border, they were unable to enter India due to the border being fully sealed.

They were later taken back by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), the official said.

The incident occurred near Dakshin Berubari village in the Jhaportala border outpost area.

The individuals involved were from five villages in Bangladeshs Panchagarh district, which borders Jalpaiguri.

A local resident reported that those gathered across the barbed wire pleaded to be let in and shared their distressing experiences. But we are helpless. They recounted their horrific experiences, the resident said.

The situation in Bangladesh has become increasingly volatile following weeks of violent protests led by students over job quotas, which resulted in the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who subsequently fled the country.

Interim Leader Asks For Calm

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament and appointed Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead an interim government.

On Wednesday, Yunus appealed for calm and urged all parties to work together to rebuild the country after weeks of violence that resulted in hundreds of deaths and Hasinas resignation.

The Nobel laureate was in Paris for the Olympics when he was appointed interim leader following discussions among military officials, civic leaders, and student activists.

Violence is our enemy. Please dont create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country, he stated.

Yunus made his first public remarks on the French capital before boarding a plane to return home.

(With inputs from PTI)

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Registration of Waqf property through a central portal and database, protecting the rights of Bohras and ensuring participation of women are some of the salient features of the Waqf Bill that the BJP-led NDA government is set to table in Parliament to amend the Waqf Act of 1995.

News18 has exclusively accessed the Waqf Amendment Bill which aims to restrict the powers of the Waqf Board and has been in the works for the last few years with the government meeting various stakeholders, including members of the community, eminent jurist and lawyers.

After lands owned by government entities, including Railways and defence, Waqf accounts for the third-highest number of properties. However, the value of these lands and the revenue generated do no match. With properties valued in crores, the annual revenue does not cross Rs 200 crore, government sources have said. The Sachar Committee, in its recommendation, has also spoken about the need to map properties along with their revenue.

Here are some of the key changes proposed in the legislation:

 The new legislation proposes the renaming of the Waqf Act, 1995, to the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.

 The term Waqf will be clearly defined by a person practising Islam for at least five years and having ownership of such property.

 The Waqf property inheritance proposes not to deprive women of the right to inherit such property.

 Survey Commissioner to the Collector or any other officer not below the rank of Deputy Collector will be duly nominated by the Collector for the survey of Waqf properties.

 The Central Waqf Council and the state Waqf Boards will ensure the representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims.

 A separate Board of Auqaf will be established for Bohras and Aghakhanis.

 The Board will have representation of Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Aghakhani and other backward classes among Muslim communities.

 The registration of Waqf property must be through a central portal and database.

 The legislation proposes providing for a detailed procedure for mutation as per revenue laws with due notice to all concerned before recording any property as Waqf property.

 The new Bill provides that the Board will no longer be the sole authority to decide if a property is indeed Waqf property.

 The Bill proposes decreasing the annual contribution from seven per cent to five per cent payable to the Board by mutawalli of every Waqf having a net annual income of not less than Rs 5,000.

 The Bill proposes providing for filing of accounts through a central portal for better control over their activities.

 The new legislation also proposes that the tribunal structure be restructured with two members apart from providing for appeals against the orders of the tribunal to the high court within a specified period of 90 days.

On Tuesday evening, several prominent Dargah chiefs met Kiren Rijiju, the Minister for Minority Affairs, to offer their support to the legislation.

Taking to X, the Union minister said: 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. Shri Shehzad Poonawalla, national spokesperson of BJP, was also present.

Apart from Naseeruddin 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.

Last Friday, the Union Cabinet gave its approval to the Bill. Waqf Boards have approximately over 8.7 lakh properties totalling around 9.4 lakh acres. In 2013, the UPA government had given more powers to the boards by amending the original Act.

The Waqf Act, 1995, was enacted to regulate auqaf (assets donated and notified as wakf) by a wakif  the person who dedicates a property for any purpose recognised by Muslim law as pious, religious, or charitable.

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In todays digest, News18 brings you the latest updates on Waqf Bill, Trainee IAS Puja Khedkars claims on cancellation of candidature, Ayushmann Khurranas exit from Sunny Deols Border and other top stories.

Come Back Stronger, Rooting For You: PM Modi To Vinesh Phogat After Paris Olympics Disqualification

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said he wishes words could express the sense of despair he is feeling about the news of Vinesh Phogats disqualification from the Paris Olympics. Calling the wrestler a champion among champions, he said though the setback hurts, India is rooting for her to come back stronger. READ MORE

Central Portal to Register Property, Protecting Rights of Bohras & Women: What Does Waqf Bill Propose? | Exclusive

Registration of Waqf property through a central portal and database, protecting the rights of Bohras and ensuring participation of women are some of the salient features of the Waqf Bill that the BJP-led NDA government is set to table in Parliament to amend the Waqf Act of 1995. READ MORE

Puja Khedkar Claims She Didnt Get Candidature Cancellation Order, UPSC Replies

Sacked IAS trainee Puja Khedkar claimed in the Delhi High Court on Wednesday that she is yet to receive the order cancelling her candidature by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and she only got to know about it via media. UPSC, on the other hand, said the press release regarding the cancellation of Khedkars candidature was meant to communicate since her whereabouts were unknown. READ MORE

Trump Says Hell Do A Major Interview With Elon Musk On August 12; Tesla CEO Yet To Confirm

Former US President Donald Trump said he will do a major interview with Tesla founder and CEO Elon Musk on August 12. However, Musk is yet to confirm the same. READ MORE

Vinesh Phogat Disqualified From Paris Olympics Gold Medal Match

Vinesh Phogat has been disqualified from the Paris Olympics after she could not make the weight on the morning of her 50 kg gold medal bout. READ MORE

Ayushmann Khurrana EXITS Sunny Deols Border 2? Actor Was Reportedly Unsure of

Ayushmann Khurrana has reportedly walked out of the sequel of Sunny Deols 1997 movie, Border. If a recent report is to be believed, Ayushmann was in talks with the makers of Border 2 for a long time now. Reportedly, he was offered to play the role of an army jawan in the movie. However, he has now backed out of the project because he wasnt sure about being a part of an ensemble led by Sunny Deol. READ MORE

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Press Release

August 7, 2024 EDCOM 2: National learning recovery program in need of massive reform - Gatchalian The Department of Education's (DepEd) National Learning Recovery Program (NLRP) is in dire need of reform, according to observations from a hearing of the Senate Committee on Basic Education chaired by Senator Sherwin "Win" Gatchalian. The hearing was also joined by Senator Nancy Binay. The hearing scrutinized the ongoing efforts of the Department of Education (DepEd) to address the alarming learning loss among Filipino learners. Data presented during the hearing suggests that initiatives under the NLRP have not yet achieved the desired impact. "Even in the pre and post test, nagbigay tayo ng intervention program, pero bumaba pa. It goes without saying that this program needs massive reforms. We're running against time. Every time the students continue to the next level, we are actually promoting students who cannot read and count. We need to fix this program. The intention is good, but we're not getting the right results." said Gatchalian, who also serves as the Co-Chairperson of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2). While the NLRP was designed to help students catch up on essential learning competencies, program execution has revealed troubling discrepancies between the actual competencies required of a specific grade level and the content being taught in intervention camps. For instance, intervention camps for Grade 8 students focused primarily on basic arithmetic skills such as addition and subtraction. While these are foundational skills, they do not align with the competencies that Grade 9 students are expected to master, including topics like quadratic equations, inequalities, and rational algebraic equations. This means that learners are not only catching up for proficiencies of their current grade level but are also lacking the proficiencies of earlier grade levels. With learners lagging years behind, this calls into question the overall efficacy of the program. This July, the Learning Camp consisted of 9 days of face to face sessions of students, which cost the government P1.8 billion, or about P200 million per day. Only half of total students were assessed According to DepEd data, only 53.69% of learners identified as needing intervention actually participated in the assessment for the NLRP, indicating that a lion's share of students who should have been assessed for targeted support were not able to undergo the screening. In place of the National Learning Camp Assessments (NLCA), DepEd directed schools to use screening tests such as rapid assessments for reading and numeracy to group the students into intervention, consolidation, and enhancement camps. However, it appears that not all schools use these tools, and that available results have not been consolidated either. Senators Gatchalian and Binay further expressed their disappointment over the absence of the very basic, yet critical data necessary for assessing the effectiveness of the program, which include the actual number of learners needing the intervention programs and screening results, among others. "We know that we have a problem, but we don't know the gravity of this problem. In the universe of 1.7 million, how many of those need intervention programs? So that we can advise you, we can allocate more funds to boost the intervention program," said Gatchalian. EDCOM 2 Executive Director Dr. Karol Mark Yee likewise pointed out that this has been a recurring request of the Commission, "We have asked for this data in writing, and also in three hearings already both in the House of Representatives and the Senate. We don't understand why it seems to be difficult to share this information when they can easily share all the other data points. This was the basis for the targeting that should have attended, and is critical in helping us understand the type of learning recovery programs needed by our students."." Only 10% of students needing intervention attended learning camps The voluntary nature of the learning camps has resulted in low participation from students who needed intervention. Current estimates from DepEd suggest that only about 10% of students requiring intervention actually attended the camps, leaving a significant number of students who needed critical support without the benefits of the program. "What are DepEd's plans for the learners who are at Grades 9 and 10, but without foundational numeracy and literacy? Will the 30 minute National Math Program and 30 minute National Reading Program help them catch up, first in terms of numeracy and literacy, and second to attain grade-level competencies? How does the NLRP reflect this?" asked Yee. When asked about the reforms that DepEd plans to undertake to address the problem and learnings from the current program, DepEd Director Leila Arriola replied, "We do not have an official decision yet as to how to go on with the national learning camp. But from some of our discussions, we are looking at recalibrating it to focus only on those needing intervention". "Tingin ko ho sa intervention, it has to be incorporated in the school year - bahagi na siya ng school year. I don't think ma-cu-cure ng camp yung problema. The mere fact na may Grade 7 and 8 who cannot do basic addition and subtraction," Senator Binay added.
Sacked IAS trainee Puja Khedkar claimed in the Delhi High Court on Wednesday that she is yet to receive the order cancelling her candidature by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and she only got to know about it via media. UPSC, on the other hand, said the press release regarding the cancellation of Khedkars candidature was meant to communicate since her whereabouts were unknown.

Puja Khedkar had moved Delhi High Court on Monday challenging the Union Public Service Commissions decision to cancel her candidature. The matter was heard by a bench headed by Justice Jyoti Singh.

Arguing in the high court, senior Advocate Indira Jaising appearing for Khedkar said, The strange thing about this case is that the order cancelling my candidature has not been handed over to me till date. All I have is the press release The press release has to be quashed, they have to supply me the order so that I can approach the appropriate tribunal. Jaising stressed that the entire case is being played out in the press.

The need for a press release was because her whereabouts are unknown. The press release is an intimation, Advocate Naresh Kaushik appearing for UPSC argued.

UPSC further informed the Delhi High Court that it will communicate to Puja Khedkar within two days the formal order cancelling her candidature permanently.

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court asked Khedkar to approach the Central Administrative Tribunal to challenge the cancellation of her candidature.

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Have you ever seen the Baluchari sarees from Bishnupur or the handloom textiles from Rajgram? With Durga Puja on the horizon, theres a special saree called the Reverse Kantha Stitch in the offering. The term reverse has a unique explanation. Creating these sarees takes between one to three months. They are entirely handmade, without any modern technology. The intricate designs are brought to life through manual effort, artistic dedication, and hard work. The trending saree for Durga Puja, the Reverse Kantha Stitch, is being crafted in Beliatore, Bankura. This saree is made by Kaveri Banerjee, with help from numerous young women and ladies striving for self-reliance.

So, why is it called reverse? To explain this, imagine you draw a flower on a white sheet of paper. Instead of colouring the flower, you colour the part of the paper around the flower. Reverse Kantha Stitch works similarly. An artist sketches various designs on the fabric, and then the outer parts of the design are stitched, leaving the interior of the design unstitched. This process is time-consuming, taking one to three months to complete a single saree, depending on the number of people working on it.

Kaveri Banerjee, a sewing expert and master trainer, says, I am currently training twenty women, who work on Reverse Kantha Stitch. The price of the saree depends on the labour, starting at a minimum of Rs 3,000. Besides Reverse Kantha sarees, Kaveri Banerjee also makes other garments like kurtis and various other clothes. She sells these products at various government fairs. Despite high demand, she faces challenges in meeting supply because the number of women stitching these sarees is decreasing. She began this work to guide women towards self-reliance.

Recently, they received an order worth Rs 40,000. By selling these unique sarees, the women of Bankura are finding their way towards self-reliance. Bankura and Bishnupur are renowned for their artistic history and heritage. The sarees from Bankura Bishnupur are especially popular.

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A unique way of protest is being witnessed in Uttar Pradesh, as a guru has become engrossed in meditation to get his demands accepted. This guru is protesting against the lack of development in a village.

The guru, popularly known as Bachcha Baba, is a resident of village Gwarai, situated on the banks of Yamuna, about 20 km from Tundla in Firozabad. Speaking to News 18, he said that his village and temple are very far from the city. The public representatives will come to ask for votes but no public representative or officer of the district comes to see the bad condition here.

There is no development in the village, there are no proper road within the village no street light and restoration of the temple and the ashram. That is why I have been engaged in Hatha Yoga for the last three years, he added.

There is no proper pucca road within the village and the condition of the road to reach his temple is also bad\. The rural people also face a lot of other problems, but no public representative take notice of these issues. That is why now he has been standing on one leg for three years till his demands are met.

Ran Singh Dhakare, a resident of the village, said that this guru has been living in a temple outside the village for many years and works for the development of the area, public welfare and religious activities.

Bachcha Baba got angry due to lack of development in the area and he adopted Hatha Yoga. He has been standing on one leg for three years.

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Handloom weaving has long been a cornerstone of Indias rich cultural heritage, weaving together traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability. On National Handloom Day, we delve into the vital role of handloom in Indian fashion and explore the opportunities and challenges faced by this intricate art form through the insights of two prominent figures in the industry: Archana Jaju and Khushi Shah, Creative Director, Shanti Banaras.

The Role of Handloom in Indian Fashion

Archana Jaju highlights the enduring importance of handloom weaving in India. She explains that handloom textiles, through their labor-intensive production methods, have not only sustained the livelihoods of rural artisans but also contributed uniquely to the countrys fashion landscape. In recent years, factors such as sustainability, environmental impact, and the growing respect for traditional crafts have fueled a resurgence in demand for handloom products. Government support and increased awareness about the artistry involved further bolster this trend.

Echoing this sentiment, Khushi Shah observes that the handloom sector is evolving beyond its traditional roots. Initially celebrated for its heritage and craftsmanship, handloom now stands out for its environmental benefits and unique aesthetic. This shift has positioned handloom as a key player in the sustainable fashion movement, aligning traditional artistry with modern sustainability goals.

Opportunities and Challenges

Both Jaju and Shah acknowledge the challenges faced by the handloom industry. Jaju points to the fierce competition from mass-produced textiles, which are often cheaper and more readily available. She also notes the issues of fair wages, limited access to modern technology, and inefficiencies in supply chain management. However, she emphasizes the opportunities that arise from the global trend towards sustainability. By integrating traditional techniques with contemporary design, technology, and training, the handloom sector can thrive in specialized markets.

Dinesh Talera, Founder, Mysore Saree Udyog says, Handloom weaving is not just a craft; it is the livelihood of rural artisans and a cornerstone of Indias fashion heritage. The labor-intensive techniques embody a rich legacy that has sustained communities for generations. It is not just a celebration; its a tribute to the timeless artistry and dedication of our karigars, who weave the very fabric of our cultural heritage. Their unmatched skill, passed down through generations, brings to life the intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Shah also addresses the challenges, including competition from powerloom manufacturing and fluctuating demand. Yet, she remains optimistic about the industrys prospects. The growing interest in sustainable fashion presents a significant opportunity for handloom. With its inherent qualities and environmental advantages, handloom is well-positioned to meet this demand and craft a compelling narrative in todays fashion world.

Contributions to the Handloom Movement

At Archana Jaju, the commitment to the handloom movement is deeply rooted in their family tradition of weaving. With a focus on preserving traditional techniques and embracing sustainable practices, Archana Jaju blends age-old craftsmanship with modern designs to appeal to contemporary consumers. Their dedication to fair trade practices and close collaboration with local artisans ensures the handloom sector remains vibrant and sustainable.

Similarly, Shanti Banaras supports the handloom movement through a commitment to preserving traditional weaving techniques while adopting sustainable practices. By merging heritage craftsmanship with modern design elements, Shanti Banaras attracts contemporary consumers and promotes fair trade. Their efforts help sustain the handloom industry and contribute to its continued relevance in todays fashion landscape.

Today, the resurgence of handloom is driven by a growing awareness of its environmental benefits and unique aesthetic appeal. As the world increasingly values sustainability and traditional craftsmanship, handloom stands at the forefront of the sustainable fashion movement. This shift reflects a deep respect for our artisans and positions handloom as a vital force in preserving both our cultural heritage and the environment, signs off Talera.

In conclusion, National Handloom Day is a moment to celebrate the intricate artistry of handloom weaving and acknowledge the efforts of those who champion this timeless craft. Through the perspectives of Archana Jaju and Shanti Banaras, we gain insight into the ongoing evolution of handloom in Indian fashion and the dedication required to ensure its future.
KERALA LOTTERY FIFTY FIFTY FF-105 RESULT ON WEDNESDAY, 07.08.2024, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results of the Fifty Fifty-FF-105 lucky draw for Wednesday, August 7. Check the Full List of Winning Numbers below.

ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Result Today LIVE: Sthree Sakthi SS-428 WINNERS for August 13, 2024 (DECLARED); First Prize Rs 75 Lakh!

FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR FIFTY-FIFTY FF-105 LOTTERY

WINNING NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE WORTH RS 8,000 ARE

FA 338038

FC 338038

FD 338038

FE 338038

FF 338038

FG 338038

FH 338038

FK 338038

FL 338038

FM 338038

WINNING NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE WORTH RS 1 CRORE IS FB 338038

WINNING NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE WORTH RS 10 LAKH IS FK 118933

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 3RD PRIZE WORTH RS 5,000 ARE

0202 0834 1242 1309 1396 1603 2269 3231 3460 3924 4183 4192 4812 6209 6353 6954 7219 7587 8095 8648 8929 9050 9558

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE WORTH RS 2,000 ARE

3042 9490 7538 9970 5505 3469 5573 3489 8870 4612 8807 5033

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE WORTH RS 1,000 ARE

0254 1227 2120 2793 3101 4250 5085 5257 5355 5661 5816 6009 6347 6522 7119 7591 7844 7989 8469 8649 9420 9667 9736 9915

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE WORTH RS 500 ARE

8784 0346 5993 9357 7944 7155 2373 0452 9120 8957 5501 7075 3567 8551 1899 0487 4227 8413 5819 6040 7512 5428 3545 4312 9073 9982 4953 9315 5780 2410 6895 5152 5342 4254 5945 0353 0934 4185 7330 2166 5110 7835 9796 6339 2623 4936 4654 2581 0489 6324 3819 7790 3011 9195 4570 0389 6190 3209 0497 8220 5129 5526 7563 1449 6357 2659 4704 1914 1491 8540 3488 3202 0979 1636 4669 7505 5231 2471 3443 8931 2871 7266 9790 4489 6912 4657 3513 9043 4659 9615 3045 5397

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE WORTH RS 100 ARE

4830 3145 1768 4875 8629 5755 8034 4872 7171 6734 2302 0692 0327 9614 3193 3963 1442 5264 2646 6408 2692 8946 9395 3553 8951 5051 5640 6563 5852 0683 3134 9346 4330 1253 1557 2135 1108 1535 0858 4741 6575 9704 5189 0926 4549 6162 5879 6781 8168 9294 8886 6421 9895 9239 6191 2937 8099 9984 9622 4477 0971 4393 7670 0387 5125 4069 3319 7597 8046 9329 6674 0183 2626 4839 8556 9882 2988 8517 2950 6631 9236 2901 2553 2658 2920 8067 9871 6657 9170 9880 1219 0697 8828 9886 4708 1738 6196 1708 7951 1226 8590 9907 1775 9424 9193 5106 4148 4171 6706 6804 6042 2913 2827 0085 9456 3335 0683 1114 4963 4946 0512

KERALA LOTTERY RESULT TODAY: FIFTY-FIFTY FF-105 PRIZE STRUCTURE

1st Prize: Rs 1 Crore

2nd Prize: Rs. 10 Lakh

3rd Prize: Rs. 5,000

4th Prize: Rs. 2,000

5th Prize: Rs. 1,000

6th Prize: Rs. 500

7th Prize: Rs. 100

Consolation Prize: Rs. 8,000

HOW TO CONFIRM KERALA FIFTY-FIFTY FF-105 LOTTERY RESULTS?

The Kerala Fifty-Fifty FF-105 Lottery results can be checked by the participants by visiting www.keralalottery.info, the official website of the Kerala Lottery Department. One can also cross-verify the published result with their ticket number directly at the Kerala Government Gazette office to confirm their winning.

HOW TO CLAIM YOUR PRIZE MONEY?

All the participants can confirm their eligibility for the Kerala Fifty-Fifty FF-105 lottery result through the official draw result published in the Kerala Government Gazette.

If the numbers on both tickets match, you can win the draw. Winners must take their rewards at the Kerala Lottery offices at Gorky Bhavan within 30 days of the results being announced.

During the verification process, winners are required to show both their winning tickets and a legitimate form of identification.
The handloom-weaving community of India is a symbol of our countrys rich and varied cultural heritage. National Handloom Day is observed every year on August 7 as an occasion to celebrate indigenous industries and handloom weaving, in particular. The day, first celebrated in 2015 by the Government of India, commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement.

This day is a reminder of the remarkable hard work and creativity of Indias handloom-weaving community. On this occasion, the Government of India celebrates and acknowledges the vital role this sector plays in our socio-economic development.

The aim is to protect and preserve our rich handloom heritage while instilling pride in the exquisite craftsmanship that defines it.

National Handloom Day 2024: History

The first National Handloom Day was celebrated in 2015, with an event in Chennai to mark the launch of Swadeshi Movement on August 7, 1905.

The Swadeshi Movement sought to oppose British rule and encourage the ideas of self-help and self-reliance in rural India. The movement aimed to boycott foreign goods and rely on products made in India.

Mahatma Gandhi started the movement by using khadi. He used this hand-spun fabric and urged every Indian to spin their yarn and proudly wear Khadi.

As a result of the initiative, almost every home began making khadi.

National Handloom Day 2024: Significance

This day holds great significance in creating awareness about the rich history of Indian handloom as synthetic fabrics have taken over the modern textile industry.

The handloom industry is a representation of the nations illustrious cultural legacy, and this occasion celebrates the rich fabrics and colourful weaves made by weavers.

Its important to highlight that the handloom sector plays a crucial role in womens empowerment, as over 70% of handloom weavers and allied workers are women.

National Handloom Day 2024: Inspiring Quotes
Khadi, a fabric of immense national significance, has evolved from a symbol of independence to a celebrated choice in contemporary fashion. As it garners increasing attention, Khadi is finding its place in the hearts of modern designers and consumers alike.

The Significance of Khadi

Prakhar Rao, founder, Zero Tolerance, underscores Khadis unique value: Khadi is a fabric of great national importance and the West is finding it difficult to replicate. He highlights that Khadi is not only beneficial for the skin but also for the environment. Unlike mass-produced textiles, Khadi has negligible carbon emissions and plays a crucial role in preserving South-Asian cultural heritage and traditional fabric-making techniques.

At Zero Tolerance, 95 percent of their pieces are handmade, reflecting their commitment to the craftsmanship of generational artisans. Rao emphasizes, As we dive deeper into the idea of South-Asian representation, we want to do things that make a difference on the ground level. Collaborating with an NGO in their city, they support underrepresented communities, including weavers from the outskirts of Lucknow. These artisans, though faced with competition from cheaper, machine-made fabrics, produce high-quality Khadi, which remains unmatched for its craftsmanship and eco-friendliness.

Khadis Modern Transformation

Designer Shilpi Gupta offers a perspective on how Khadi has evolved in the fashion world: Derived from Khaddar, Khadi, a hand-spun and hand-woven fabric, reflects both the past and the future. Gupta points out that Khadis raw texture symbolizes simplicity and the power of grassroots movements. Today, Khadi has transcended its traditional roots to become a versatile fabric used in various modern styles and designs.

Khadi has gained popularity among Gen Z and homegrown clothing brands for its adaptability. Gupta notes, With a versatility in modern cuts and prints, Khadi is not just a designer choice but a runway supreme. The fabric has made its way into trendy tops, dresses, shirts, and jackets, appealing to urban consumers. It offers a fashion statement that combines eco-friendliness with comfort for all seasons.

From boho-chic ensembles to high-fashion couture, Khadis evolution has been remarkable. Gupta observes, Today, from national to international stages, its timeless appeal and adaptability capture the attention of wearers. This transformation underscores Khadis journey from a symbol of independence to a global fashion staple.

The Future of Khadi

As Khadi continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the rich tradition of handcrafting while adapting to modern fashion sensibilities. With contributions from dedicated artisans like those supported by Zero Tolerance and innovative designers like Shilpi Gupta, Khadis legacy endures and thrives. Embracing Khadi not only celebrates a cherished tradition but also supports sustainable and ethical fashion practices.

This Handloom Day, as we reflect on the journey of Khadi, we recognize its significant impact on fashion and culture. Khadis enduring charm and adaptability ensure its place in both the past and the future, making it a fabric that continues to inspire and captivate.
National Handloom Day, celebrated on August 7, honours Indias rich heritage of handwoven fabrics and promotes the handloom industry. Established in 2015 to honour the Swadeshi Movement, this day not only recognizes the usage of indigenous products, but also emphasizes the critical role handwoven textiles played in Indias freedom struggle. Its an opportunity to celebrate the art of handwoven textiles while also supporting the livelihoods of countless weavers and craftspeople. Today, handloom weaving is one of Indias largest economic activities after agriculture, providing direct and indirect employment to 35.23 lakh weavers and allied workers. This sector contributes nearly 15% to the countrys cloth production and significantly impacts export earnings. India is responsible for 95% of the worlds handwoven fabric.

The handloom industry protects cultural heritage by conserving traditional processes and designs. For example, the Toda tribe of the Nilgiris is well-known for its unusual embroidery, with Toda shawls made entirely by women from the village. This custom not only preserves the tribes cultural identity, but also secures the survival of their distinctive craft. Similarly, the Ikat technique, which is popular in Telangana and Odisha, uses elaborate resist dyeing to produce patterns that are both ancient and ageless. Tangaliya shawls from Gujarat, with their distinctive raised dot designs, demonstrate the rich legacy of Indias handloom heritage.

Celebrating Tradition and Empowerment

Brands like Jaypore are instrumental in preserving traditional handloom crafts through direct collaboration with artisans across India. Their dedication to sustainable fashion is reflected in collections featuring Nilgiri Toda shawls, Andhra Pradesh Ikat, and Gujarats Tangaliya weave. Toda shawls, created exclusively by women from the Toda tribe, symbolize Indias rich handloom heritage. Jaypore supports these artisans by providing a platform to showcase their skills, thereby empowering them economically and socially while maintaining their cultural identity.

According to the Handloom Census 2019-20, India has approximately 3.52 million handloom workers, with 2.55 million being women. The sector employs 2.67 million weavers, 72% of whom are women. Handicraft exports (excluding handmade carpets) reached $1.80 billion between April 2023 and March 2024. The industry is projected to employ 6.89 million craftspeople, with a significant number of women.

Empowering women artisans is crucial for the handloom sector in sustainability. By providing skill development and market access, Jaypore enables artisans to achieve economic independence and gain recognition. This support enhances their communities through improved education and living standards. Jaypores efforts, including training and resources, help preserve traditional techniques and ensure their continuation for future generations.

Integrating Tradition with Contemporary Fashion

Indian fashion is increasingly embracing handloom textiles, seamlessly integrating them with modern design to craft garments that appeal to contemporary consumers while preserving cultural heritage. This fusion of tradition and modernity is essential for keeping the handloom sector vibrant and relevant in todays fast-paced world.

Brands such as Fab India and W are at the forefront of this movement. W frequently features handloom textiles in its collections, celebrating the beauty and versatility of traditional weaves. By presenting these fabrics in innovative ways, the brand encourages consumers to appreciate and invest in handloom products, thereby promoting sustainable fashion and supporting artisan communities.

Looking to the Future

As National Handloom Day approaches, its essential to recognize and celebrate the collective efforts of artisans, designers, and consumers in preserving Indias rich textile heritage. Supporting handwoven products and making informed choices are key to sustaining these traditional crafts. The future of the handloom industry relies on collaboration among artisans, brands, and consumers. By valuing the skill and artistry of Indias weavers, we bridge tradition and modernity, fostering a sustainable fashion landscape.

This National Handloom Day, let us honour the craftsmen who protect Indias cultural heritage while also recognizing brands like Jaypore, W and Fab India that are at the forefront of sustainable fashion. Their dedication demonstrates how contemporary design can improve traditional crafts, assuring a bright future for handlooms. Consumers have an important role in this process. By supporting these products and respecting handcrafted excellence, we help to sustain handloom weaving, empower artists, and improve our cultural heritage. Together, we can create a fashion industry that honours both heritage and innovation.
Just months after her split with Aditya Roy Kapur, Ananya Panday is now linked with former model Walker Blanco. According to India Today, the new couple met at the Ambani familys star-studded cruise party before Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants wedding. Interestingly, Walker is followed by Ananya and her BFFs Shanaya Kapoor and Navya Nanda on Instagram.

A source close to the due told India Today, Ananya met Walker on the cruise and soon sparks flew between the duo. The two are currently getting to know each other and have fostered a great friendship. Walker is based out of Jamnagar and works for the Ambanis at the Vantara Animal Park.

Reports from Bombay Times reveal that Ananya even introduced Walker as her partner at the glitzy wedding  sparking fresh romance rumours. Ananya introduced everyone to Walker as her partner at the wedding. She was not even hiding it. They were multiple people who even saw them dancing together when a romantic song was being played. It is too new for the two to make it official, a source told the publication.

Meanwhile, Ananya Panday seems to be moving on from her alleged breakup with actor Aditya Roy Kapur. From spending time with friends to bringing a new pet home, the actress is taking her own sweet time to relax and pamper herself. The couple, after being together for around two years, parted ways a few months ago. Back in 2022, rumours started making the rounds about Ananya Panday and Aditya Roy Kapur being in a relationship, which gained momentum over time. They were frequently spotted attending common parties and also going on vacations. Not to forget Karan Johars epic hints on Koffee With Karan.

While fans were pretty much convinced about the lovebirds budding romance, many were left shocked after media reports confirmed their breakup. A close friend of the two actors spoke to the Bombay Times and said, They broke up almost a month ago. They were going quite strong, and the break-up came as a shock to all of us. They are cordial with each other. Ananya is trying to move on, of course, theres hurt. She is spending time with her new furry friend. Aditya is also trying to deal with the situation maturely.
Dalljiet Kaur has lashed out at her estranged husband Nikhil Patel. On Wednesday, the actress took to her Instagram handle and dropped a video in which she was seen showing her matching tattoo with Nikhil. In the caption of her post, Dalljit shared that she is now looking for ideas to redesign her tattoo. She also slammed Nikhil, who was recently spotted at the Mumbai airport with his rumoured girlfriend, and accused him of not being loyal to her.

Dalljiet revealed that the tattoo was named Take 2 since it was her second marriage. She was previously married to Shalin Bhanot. Take 2. A tattoo that represented strength to fall in love again. Strength to trust again. Strength to leave the country and wrap up everything for love and a hope to have a family that me and Jaydon craved so much for. After nine years, I took the plunge as I got lost in the fantasy of having a family and all that I was being told to believe, Dalljiet wrote.

Take 2 was a chance I gave myself, to call someone my husband. For my son to feel what having a father would feel like, she added.

Dalljiet Kaur then took a dig at Nikhil Patel for being in a relationship again and questioned his loyalty. Now I know there was no such thing as faith and loyalty, love and respect, togetherness and commitment. It was all about numbers from the very beginning and loyalty was never on the table. Numbers must be high so the switch happened quickly! Now I know, when I was being told we will fix this there was a replacement already being fixed too, she wrote.

Dalljiet Kaur and Nikhil Patel tied the knot in March 2023. However, the two filed for divorce earlier this year i.e. after 10 months of their wedding. Nikhil also confirmed their separation in May when he told E-Times, In January this year, Dalljiet decided to leave Kenya with her son Jaydon and return to India, which ultimately led to our separation. We both realized that the foundation of our blended family wasnt as strong as we had hoped, making it hard for Dalljiet to settle in Kenya. In March 2023, we held an Indian wedding ceremony in Mumbai. Though it held cultural significance, it was not legally binding. This ceremony was intended to reassure Dalljiets family about her move to Kenya.

Earlier this month, Dalljiet filed an FIR against Nikhil and accused him of cruelty and criminal breach of trust.
In a shocking turn of events, Vinesh Phogat, who had made history by becoming the first Indian woman to reach an Olympic wrestling final, was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight in the 50 kg category. The disqualification came just a day after she secured India at least a silver medal by defeating Cubas Yusneylis Guzman Lopez in the freestyle semi-finals.

Despite staying awake all night and trying every possible measure to reduce weight, Phogat couldnt shed the extra grams in time for the final weigh-in. This disqualification not only cost her the opportunity to compete for gold but also stripped her of the silver medal, leaving the category with only a gold and bronze medallist.

Reacting to the unfortunate incident, veteran actor and politician Hema Malini expressed her disbelief. It is very surprising and bada ajeeb sa bhi lagta hain ki 100 gm ki wajah se woh disqualify ho gayi. Kitna mehatwa hain apna weight aur wazan ko theek se rakhna! Hum sab ko isse ek achha seekh milna chahiye sab kalakaro ko, mahilayon ko sabko ki 100 gm also matters a lot! We feel very sad for her. I wish she loses that 100 grams quickly lekin milega nahi abhi (It is very surprising, and it feels strange that she was disqualified for being 100 gm overweight. It is important to keep the weight in check. It is a lesson for all of us. I wish she loses that 100 gm quickly but she would not get an opportunity), she told PTI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also voiced his support, tweeting, Vinesh, you are a champion among champions! You are Indias pride and an inspiration for each and every Indian. Todays setback hurts. I wish words could express the sense of despair that I am experiencing. At the same time, I know that you epitomise resilience. It has always been your nature to take challenges head on. Come back stronger! We are all rooting for you.

Vineshs disqualification has left fans and fellow athletes heartbroken, but many believe she will bounce back stronger from this setback, continuing to inspire millions with her determination and resilience.
Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoors daughter, Misha, is all grown up. The little star was recently spotted in Mumbais Bandra with her mother, Mira Rajput, after a quick salon session. Shahid and Mira, who welcomed their first child, Misha, in August 2016, have since chosen to keep their kids away from media attention. In a rare appearance, the mother-daughter duo was spotted after their salon visit.

In the video, while Misha runs ahead of her mother, seemingly to quickly evade the media and get into their car, Mira follows behind attentively. While Mira chose a plain black T-shirt with blue bell-bottom jeans, her daughter looked cute in a simple white dress with a matching hairband.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Instant Bollywood (@instantbollywood)

Notably, the family is back in the bay after their recent Europe vacation. Mira Rajput, who is quite active on social media, took to Instagram and shared pictures and videos of her trip. In one of the videos, she could be seen exploring picturesque locations, with, of course, her kids in company. Prior to that, she also attended Taylor Swifts Eras Tour concert in Munich with her daughter Misha. The mommy-daughter took a selfie at the concert, which she later shared on Instagram. Core memory with my sunshine swiftie. We couldnt believe it! Mother daughter trip of dreams, Mira wrote.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mira Rajput Kapoor (@mira.kapoor)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mira Rajput Kapoor (@mira.kapoor)

Her Instagram feed is filled with moments from their family outings, get-togethers and vacations. For those unaware, Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput got married in 2015. They welcomed their daughter the next year. In 2018, they were blessed with a son, Zain. Mira, a businesswoman by profession, recently launched her own skincare brand, Akind.

Whats Next For Shahid Kapoor?

Last seen in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, alongside Kriti Sanon in the lead, Shahid Kapoor next has Deva in the pipeline. He will be seen opposite Pooja Hedge. Directed by Rosshan Andrrews, the action-entertainer is set to release on October 11, 2024.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor)

Additionally, he will also be seen in Vashu Bhagnanis mythological epic, Ashwatthama: The Saga Continues. The film was announced at the Prime Video Presents event in March this year. According to reports, it will dive into the legend of the immortal Ashwatthama from the Mahabharata.
Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni and Brandon Sklenar starrer It Ends With Us is all set to hit theatres this weekend. Ahead of the films release, Sklenar was right beside his co-stars at the New York City premiere of It Ends With Us on Tuesday, where he spoke to the media on various topics. Apart from his own film, Sklenar also had a lot to say about Hugh Jackmans Wolverine in Deadpool & Wolverine. In a conversation with Extra TV, the actor opened up about his feelings upon meeting Jackman and also said he would love to play the MCU character.

I mean, I was like a little kid. I didnt know he was going to be there until, like, a couple of hours before. He was like, How you doing? and I was like, Im good. Hes one of the reasons I am an actor. The mans incredible; its insane, he said.

On being asked if he would love to play the beloved Adamantium-clawed superhero, Sklenar added, I feel he might drop playing that role or he might play the role till hes an old man, but yeah, those would be big shoes to fill, but I would take a swing at that.

#ItEndsWithUs star Brandon Sklenar raves over meeting Hugh Jackman and says he'd love to play Wolverine someday! Full interview : https://t.co/p17EtgNQof pic.twitter.com/YB5ESLS6ZZ  ExtraTV (@extratv) August 6, 2024

While Brandon Sklenar couldnt help but rejoice over his fanboy moment after meeting Hugh Jackman, the latter was in the mood to have some fun. Joining Livelys husband and his Deadpool & Wolverine co-star Ryan Reynolds, Jackman hilariously warned Sklenar about flirting with the actress. While Reynolds already made the interview quite awkward for the It Ends With Us actor, the Wolverine star showed up and said, Its not every day a guy gets to interview the love interest of his best friends wife, and the guy trying to replace Ryan as a husband. And me as his best mate.

Ryan Reynolds, Tammy Reynolds and Hugh Jackman crash Brandon Sklenars interview for #ItEndsWithUsMovie pic.twitter.com/GuydkoWmg8   (@CinemaBurst) August 6, 2024

He just didnt stop here and further asked, Ive just got one question. What the hell are you doing, messing with my best buddys wife?

In his defense, Sklenar called himself a big fan of Jackman. The conversation hilariously ended with the interviewers gushing over the actors looks.

Speaking about the film, the Colleen Hoover novel adaptation is focused on Lily Bloom (Lively), who has had a tragic childhood but manages to survive it. As she grows up, she crosses paths with her first love Atlas Corrigan (Sklenar), however, also struggles with her volatile relationship with her boyfriend Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni).
Malaika Arora is a fashion icon and there is no doubt about it. Each time she drops gorgeous photos of herself on social media, she leaves everyone completely stunned. On Wednesday too, Malaika took to her Instagram handle and shared a series of pictures from her recent trip to Maldives. She looked prettiest as she posed in a white bathrobe while enjoying some fruits.

In the caption of her post, Malaika wrote, Jus me n my fruit . #detox #antioxidants.

Needless to say, the pictures have left netizens jaw-dropped. Several fans rushed to the comments section of Malaikas post to compliment the diva. You are pretty, one of the fans wrote. Hotness overloaded, added another. Several others also dropped fire emojis in the comments section. Check it out here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Malaika Arora (@malaikaaroraofficial)

Meanwhile, Malaika Arora has also been making headlines for her rumoured breakup with Arjun Kapoor. Last month, Malaika left fans concerned after she skipped Arjuns midnight birthday celebration at his Juhu residence. She didnt wish him on social media either, which led to speculation about their possible breakup. Later, the diva crossed Arjun at an event when they ignored each other and seemingly confirmed their breakup.

Amid the ongoing rumours surrounding her on-off relationship with Arjun, Malaika recently spoke about how the internet can be a very toxic space. I have somehow built a mechanism  or shield, I would say  around me where I dont let the negativity through anymore, Malaika told Hello magazine.

Ive insulated myself from it. Whether its people, a work environment, social media or trolls. The minute I feel that energy, I recoil instantly. Its something Ive learned to do over time. It would get to me earlier and I would lose sleep over it. Id be lying if I said things dont affect me at all  Im human too and so I will cry, break down and have all the emotions associated with being trolled. But youll never see that in public, she added.
Director Pa Ranjith is currently busy promoting his upcoming film Thangalaan featuring Chiyaan Vikram, Parvathy, Malavika Mohan, Daniel Caltagirone and Pasupathy in the lead roles. The films plot is set in Kolar Gold Fields (KGF) in Karnataka. The historical place which was also depicted in Rocking Star Yash and director Prashanth Neels superhit film KGF. However, the Yash starrer does not delve thoroughly into the demographics, whereas the Vikram starrer showcases the persecution in the region.

Ahead of the release of Thangalaan, the films director Pa Ranjith, during a recent event, revealed that he had to stop the production of the film when he watched the trailer of Yashs KGF.

Pa Ranjith stated that he had earlier begun preparations for Thangalaan, but when the makers of KGF released the films official trailer, it came as a momentary shock and he had to stop work on his dream project. He decided to watch the Yash-starrer action thriller film first and when it was released he noticed that his story was entirely different as shown in the Prashant Neel directorial. Which is why it took him so long to start working on Thangalaan again.

The director, during the films event in Chennai, showered praises on the Thangalaans lead actor Chiyaan Vikram for his dedication to his craft. He said, Vikram sir had a rib fracture while shooting for this film. Despite being in immense pain, he continued shooting. I dont know how he managed it, but he did. He has so much trust in me. I want this film to succeed, especially for him.

Actor Chiyaan Vikram also shared his experience of working in the film and stated he worked hard on his health and took up every opportunity that came his way for this film. He added that Thangalaan is a special film for him and he had to completely transform himself for the role.

Recently, reports surfaced that the makers of Thangalaan will be hosting a special screening of the film for actor Yash. Jointly produced by Studio Green and Neelam Productions, the music of Thangalaan is composed by GV Prakash, cinematography by Kishor Kumar and editing by Selva RK.
Chiyaan Vikram is set to entertain audiences once again with his role in the highly anticipated film Thangalaan, which is slated for a global release on August 15 in five languages. Fans are eagerly awaiting the films debut, and heartfelt wishes for Vikram are pouring in. Among those sending good vibes is Kantara star Rishab Shetty, who recently met Vikram to convey his best wishes. What makes this meeting even more significant is Rishabs 24-year-long wait to finally meet his idol Vikram.

Chiyaan Vikram was in Bengaluru to promote his film Thangalaan when he met Rishab Shetty. Both the stars were seemingly overjoyed to have spent some quality time together. Rishab did not forget to treat his fans to the pictures from his meeting and dropped a bunch of glimpses on Instagram. Attached to the post was a short yet heartwarming note for the actor wherein he expressed, In my journey in becoming an actor, Vikram Sir has always been my inspiration. After 24 long years of waiting, meeting my idol today makes me feel like the luckiest person on Earth. Thank you for inspiring actors like me, and wishing you all the best for Thangalaan. Love you, Chiyaan.

The first picture attached to the post shows both Rishab Shetty and Chiyaan Vikram, posing for an endearing click. It is followed by a candid click featuring the duo as they laughed their hearts out. The final image has the stars clicking a selfie, capturing the joyous moment in a frame. For the meeting, Rishab sported a suave look in a floral relaxed-fit shirt which he teamed up with black cargo pants. Vikram, on the other hand, looked equally handsome in a black T-shirt and blue jeans.

Notably, Chiyaan Vikram is leaving no stone unturned to promote his film Thangalaan. He is doing a multi-city tour and attended the events held in Hyderabad and Chennai for the same. Following the Bengaluru event on August 6, the actor is now headed to Mumbai and Kochi for further promotions.

As for Rishab Shetty, the actor is occupied shooting for the Kantara prequel, which is expected to be released in December 2024. Helmed and headlined by Rishab himself, the project was announced at Amazon Prime Videos event in Mumbai earlier this year.
Otherwise known for portraying intense action roles in Hollywood, actor Vin Diesel shares a lively camaraderie with his fans. From surprising them at random moments to personally meeting his special fans, he never fails to acknowledge their love and affection. In a recent gesture, Vin Diesel gave a wedding gift to one bride and groom which they never thought theyd get. Known for famously playing Dominic Toretto in the Fast & Furious franchise, Vin Diesel made a surprise stop at the couples wedding in Germany, leaving them super happy.

The groom, Matthias Hoehn, shared the video of their meeting on TikTok, which later went viral all over the internet. The video shows the couple posing for pictures, all decked up in their wedding attire. As they romantically twirled around, embracing each other and capturing all the moments from the special day, the actor made a sudden appearance to greet them.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matthias Hohn (@matthiashnofficial_)

Dressed in a casual blue vest with cargo shorts, Diesel congratulated them on their wedding and also made a heart sign before finally posing with them for a happy picture. einfach Fiebertraum, Hoehn wrote in his caption, which roughly translates to Simply fever dream. Many of his followers took to the comment section to take note of this awesome moment. A user joked, Look at how she fell in love with Vin Diesel, while another commented, This reminds me of that one couple who just invited Keanu Reeves to his wedding and he still came even though he didnt know her.

Another user commented, I would have died of joy, while one congratulated the couple, How awesome is that. All the best to you both of course.

Vin Diesels Next Projects

Diesel, who is currently in Munich, seems to be busy with the production work of his upcoming films. In July this year, he announced that the final Fast & Furious film is finally in the pre-production stage. One of my favorite pics of 2024 two decades for this moment as we are in preproduction for the Fast finale, Pablo sent a message, Suki. All love, Always, he wrote.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vin Diesel (@vindiesel)

Besides the next and final installment in the celebrated franchise, the actor also has the upcoming Riddick: Furya in the pipeline. The film is expected to begin production later this month.
Amitabh Bachchan often speaks fondly about his father, legedary poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan. The superstar recites his poems on various occasions and even shares his memories of him on his blog. One such time was back in June 2008, when Amitabh revealed he was angry and frustrated and marched into his fathers study to raise objection towards being born.

As reported by The Indian Express, Amitabh said in his blog that he was getting accustomed to his newly found freedom after his boarding school and was exposed to the complex world in college. From being told what to do, you are now telling what should be done. Almost overnight you become the saviors of the world and of humanity with your idealistic and non idealistic utterances, Big B wrote in the blog post.

Frustrated with the new pressures of life, Amitabh couldnt stop himself from questioning his father. Angered, frustrated, strengthened and armed with unreasonable thought, I walked into my fathers study one evening and for the first time in my life, with choked emotion, raised my voice at him and screamed  Why did you give birth to me? Aapne humein paida kyun kiya? Amitabh recalled.

My father, immersed as he always was in his writing, looked up at me with some initial surprise and then settled down to a more understanding posture and remained so for almost eternity. No one spoke. Not him. Not me. Not a sound, the Kalki 2898 AD star shared, adding that the night which followed was uncomfortable for him.

Next day, Amitabh revealed, his father came up to him and handed him a piece of paper. The paper featured a poem with the title  Nayi Leek. The poem was the answer to Amitabhs question. He shared a picture of the poem on the blog along with the translation.

My son asks me  Why did you give birth to us? And I do not possess an answer to this. That even my father did not ask me before giving birth to me. Nor my father asked his father before producing him. Nor my grandfather did ask his father before bringing him, translated the poem.

Why dont you make a new beginning, a new thinking, ask your sons before giving birth to them, he wrote. Harivansh Rai Bachchan concluded the poem by suggesting, Why dont you make a new beginning, a new thinking, ask your sons before giving birth to them.

Referring to his fathers words, Amitabh urged fans to not have excuses in life and not find anyone to blame. There are no excuses in life and no blame. Every morning is a fresh challenge. Either you learn to pick up the gauntlet and fight or learn to surrender to it. So long as there is life, there is struggle! he wrote in his blog.

Harivansh Rai Bachchan passed away in 2003, at the age of 95.
Indias Avinash Sable failed to keep pace with the best in the business as he finished 11th in the Paris Olympics mens 3000m steeplechase final race here on Wednesday.

The 29-year-old Sable clocked 8 minutes 14.18 seconds while crossing the finish line after running in the lead briefly in the dramatic race. Sable had recently broken his own national record with a time of 8: 09.91 seconds at the Paris Diamond League.

He has been training abroad for a long time in preparation for the Paris Games on funding from the government.

Soufiane El Bakkali of Morocco defended his title, clocking his seasons best of 8:06.05 while Kenneth Rooks (8:06.41) of USA and Abraham Kibiwot (8:06.47) of Kenya took silver and bronze respectively.

World record holder Lamecha Girma of Ethiopia did not finish the race as he fell on the track towards the end.

Meanwhile, triple jumpers Praveen Chitravel and Abdulla Aboobacker failed to reach the finals after producing disappointing performances of 16.25m and 16.49m respectively.

Chitravel finished 27th and Abdulla ended up at 21st out of 32 competitors.

Chitravel holds the national record of 17.37m while Aboobacker has a personal best of 17.19m.

All athletes who jumped 17.10m or more, or the 12 best performers advanced to the final.

Catch Paris Olympics 2024 Day 12 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.
Commonwealth Games gold medalist Babita Phogat has congratulated sister Vinesh on her historic feat in the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. The latter stormed into the final of womens 50kg freestyle wrestling after defeating Yusneylis Guzman Lopez of Cuba 5-0 in the semis. In her previous matches, Vinesh outsmarted reigning Olympic champion Yui Sasaki of Japan in the pre-quarters and then Ukraines Oksana Livach in the quarter-finals.

Vinesh became the first-ever wrestler from India to compete for the Olympic gold. Her victory has been drawing praise from the different corners of the country and also from her family which has produced some top-notch wrestlers.

Babita, a former wrestler, congratulated Vinesh for making the country proud.

Today is a proud day for the country. It is a very happy day that Vinesh has reached the final, Babita told ANI.

The hard work that Vinesh and her supporting staff have done, everyone made a contribution in a player winning the medal for the country. I congratulate Vinesh as she is the first women wrestler to reach the final at the Olympics.

Her decision to fight in the 50 kg category, was a good move. She has won all her medals in this category. Its a suitable category for her. My father dreamed that our daughters would win a medal at the Olympics, today its going to be fulfilled, she added.

#WATCH | Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker shows her medal as she arrives in Delhi after her historic performance in #ParisOlympics2024She won bronze medals in Womens 10m Air Pistol & the 10m Air Pistol Mixed team event. pic.twitter.com/5dylr6Zimv  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2024

Shes daughter of the country: Vineshs mother

Vineshs mother Premlata, in an exclusive conversation with CNN News18, expressed that her daughter shall return home with a gold medal.

I congratulated her after she qualified. She will get gold. She has made the country proud. She has worked very hard for this, she is daughter of the country, Vineshs mother told CNN News18.

Uncle Mahavir Phogat is hopeful of an Olympic Gold

Speaking with ANI, renowned former wrestler and Vineshs uncle Mahavir Phogat said that she will bring the gold medal for the country.

We are completely sure that she will bring the Gold medal. She played very well and with confidence. She will play well further also. Not just the village, but the whole nation is happy today, Mahavir Phogat told ANI.

Catch Paris Olympics 2024 Day 12 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.
Bangladesh is on the brink of a civil war, thanks to the meddling in its internal affairs by the United States. This meddling was evident in the run-up to the January 2024 general elections which resulted in another term for Sheikh Hasina and her party Awami League.

The US and many Western countries had termed these polls unfair as it failed to unseat Hasina. The Western world has been backing the main Opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its ally Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh which has close links with Pakistans security establishment and is known for using violence as a primary tool to subjugate minorities and its opponents.

The US has been a significant player in Bangladesh because of Bangladeshs strategic location. Ironically, it had played a key role in brokering a settlement in 2007 between the BNP and the Awami League. This resulted in the stepping down of the BNP-led government and the eventual rise of Sheikh Hasina to power in 2009.

One of the key reasons that had upset the Americans was that Hasina refused to get influenced by the US. There were enough indications since 2014 that the US wanted to oust Hasina. It had expressed disappointment and concern about the election results after the 2014 and 2018 polls also after Hasina won.

US-China Clash

Hasinas ouster, it appears, is an outcome of the US-China conflict. The US is the largest foreign investor in Bangladesh. It is also the third largest trading partner of Bangladesh. The biggest market for Bangladeshs ready-made garments is the US. It is also the biggest investor in Bangladeshs energy sector.

The growing Chinese investments in infrastructure projects had become a cause of deep concern for Washington. It was seen as Dhakas tilt towards Beijing.

It is important to understand that Bangladeshs geographical location makes it a significant player in the Indo-Pacific region. Both China and the US have been competing to have greater influence in this region.

The US had invited Dhaka to join the Quad in 2020. It also wanted Bangladesh to be part of its Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) established in early 2022. However, Dhaka refused to join any military alliance like Quad.

Hasina had also rebuffed China in 2021 when the then Chinese envoy had warned Bangladesh from joining any military alliance as it would lead to substantial damage to (Sino-Bangladeshi) bilateral relations. Dhaka curtly responded, We decide our own foreign policy.

These incidents point towards the fact that Hasina wanted to pursue an independent foreign policy and keep a balance between the US and China as well as between China and India. The US, it appears, took a strong exception to this approach of the Awami League government and started brewing trouble.

In 2021, the US imposed sanctions on Bangladeshs elite paramilitary force; the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and seven of its current and former members charging them of extra-judicial killings and disappearances.

In December 2022, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas visited homes and met families of victims of allegedly enforced disappearances, including the house of BNP leader Sajedul Islam Sumon. Haass actions triggered a strong reaction from Awami League leaders. They accused the US envoy of supporting the BNP and interfering in their countrys domestic affairs. Further, Bangladesh was not invited by the US to its Democracy Summits in December 2021 and March 2023.

In April 2023, Hasina had accused the US of seeking a regime change in Bangladesh, calling it an undemocratic action, whereby they (the US) are trying to eliminate democracy and introduce a government that will not have a democratic existence. Bangladesh officials hit back at the US pointing to weakness in Americas democracy and calling America a bunch of hypocrites. The Awami League government had clearly indicated that it was not inclined to get a lecture from the US on democracy.

The US responded curtly to these remarks by the Bangladesh government. During Bangladesh PMs trip to Washington DC at the end of April 2023 to celebrate 50 years of partnership with the World Bank, none of President Bidens administration officials met her.

Return of Jamaat-e-Islami

The current violence and anarchy in Bangladesh also marks the return of Jamaat-e-Islami which has grave implications not only for Bangladesh but also for India and other countries in the region. Jammat was banned as a political party by the Bangladesh Supreme Court in 2013. On August 1 this year, the Hasina government had officially banned Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing, Chhatra Shibir, designating them as terrorist organisations. Jamaat is an ultra-radical outfit that swears to bring sharia laws and make Bangladesh a radical Islamist country. It is a blatantly anti-Hindu outfit and is known to have repeatedly targeted Hindus in Bangladesh.

The US-backed Jamaat to counter Hasina. It had put pressure on Hasina to allow it to contest the January 2024 general elections. Hasina had dealt with Jamaat strongly but now in her absence, the Jamaat cadres are leading violent mobs and instigating them to target minorities (primarily Hindus) as well as the Awami League cadres.

This is similar to what the US had done in Afghanistan where it backed radical Islamists to overthrow the governments that failed to toe its line. Taliban and Haqqani network, the fountainhead of global terrorism is an outcome of the US backing the radical Islamists in Afghanistan with the help of Pakistans security establishment.

Today the whole world, including the US and the West, is suffering the menace of Islamic radicalisation and terrorism, courtesy of the American policy of removing and replacing governments that want to pursue an independent foreign policy in their own national interest. In Bangladesh also, a radical Islamist government is in the offing.

The writer is an author and columnist and has written several books. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Today, Bangladesh faces a critical juncture as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned amidst escalating unrest, with an interim government now set to take charge under the militarys supervision. This comes as the country is engulfed in violence, with Hindus and other minority communities bearing the brunt of what is rapidly becoming a genocide of unimaginable proportions. As the world watches Bangladesh in horror, a systematic campaign of terror is being fuelled by Islamist extremists targeting Hindu homes, businesses, temples, and lives.

The unrest that began in June over a government job quota system has spiralled out of control. Initially seen as a movement for fairness, the protests quickly devolved into a pretext for Islamist factions, including Jamaat-e-Islami, Hefazat-e-Islam, and Jamaat Shibir, to launch brutal attacks against Hindus and other minority communities.

The violence has been widespread and systematic: in Moulvibazar, the Notun Kali Temple was desecrated, and Hindu homes were set ablaze, displacing many families. In Chittagongs Hajari Goli, the Sri Krishna Temple was attacked, and mobs attempted to break into Hindu homes, specifically targeting families with young girls. These are not isolated incidents but part of a coordinated effort to annihilate Hindus in Bangladesh.

Strikingly, the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh bears the hallmark of genocide under international law. Genocide is defined as acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. The targeted killings, such as the murder of Hindu police constable Suman Kumar and the lynching of Hindu Awami League leader Haradhan Roy and his nephew, are clear indicators of a calculated effort to eliminate this minority group.

Furthermore, systematic attacks on religious sites, including ISKCON and Kali temples, and the destruction of Hindu homes and businesses point to an organised campaign with genocidal intent. This is not random violence; the sheer number of incidents reflects a deliberate and coordinated effort to eradicate Hindus from Bangladesh.

It is pertinent that the international community recognise these signs and act before it is too late. For those closely monitoring events in Bangladesh, the rapid spread of violence against Hindus following the military takeover comes as no surprise. The Bangladesh Army Chief held meetings with Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam leaders, yet theres not a word on the organised targeting of Hindus. The message is unequivocally clear: Hindus in Bangladesh are now under siege.

In Feni Bash, the Parsta Hindu Temple was attacked, while riots have engulfed Hindu areas nationwide. In the last two days, Islamists murdered two Hindus in Rangpur town, and three more were killed by Jamaat Shibir protesters. Entire families have been wiped out, leaving survivors in fear and despair as Hindu temples, homes, and businesses are systematically destroyed. The international community cannot remain passive while an entire population is being targeted for destruction.

Moreover, Pakistan and Chinas involvement in this crisis adds a dangerous dimension to the violence. Both nations have a vested interest in destabilising Bangladesh, and by backing Islamist factions like Jamaat-e-Islami, Hefazat-e-Islam, and Jamaat Shibir, they are advancing their geopolitical agendas while exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Pakistan, notorious for supporting Islamist extremism and terrorism, has reportedly provided financial and logistical support to these extremist groups. China, leveraging its influence in the region, has further destabilised the situation, turning a blind eye to the atrocities committed against the Hindu population.

This geopolitical strategy has made the situation far more complex, demanding urgent global attention. The violence in Bangladesh is not merely an internal issue; it is part of a broader strategy that threatens the lives of millions of innocent people. The international community must scrutinise the involvement of these two nations and investigate their role in this unfolding tragedy.

The global community, including the United Nations, human rights organisations, and nations that believe in democracy  especially India, the regional superpower  must take immediate action to prevent further atrocities. Diplomatic pressure should be applied to ensure the protection of Bangladeshi citizens, and an independent investigation into the crimes against Hindus must be initiated.

The world has witnessed too many genocides; we cannot afford to let history repeat itself. Immediate action is needed to halt the bloodshed and ensure justice for the victims of these heinous crimes. The time to act is now, before the situation escalates further and another dark chapter is written in the history of human rights violations.

The author is Director of Research at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies (CIHS), a bipartisan think tank based out of New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Eerily close to the fateful date of August 15, 1975, when their father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated along with all his family members in Dhaka, the daughters who survived as they were not there, have now had to flee Bangladesh themselves 49 years later, on August 5, 2024. And once again, the land of my forefathers  where I too was born, in Dhaka just after the 1965 war  is in the throes of violence, hatred, anger and turmoil.

The interim government comprising academics and civil society installed by the Army chief does not inspire confidence as they have neither the mass support nor the political experience to counter the dark forces that have been gaining ground in Bangladesh. No matter what sweet words the Army chief uses  and indeed Bangla is very conducive to sugar-coated prose  the fact is that the fight to restore democracy has done exactly the opposite.

The anti-quota protests by students which targeted the Awami League government of Sheikh Hasina were clearly a decoy for amassing vast mobs and ensuring spreading lawlessness that would force the Army to oust her and take control. The government was actually on the same side as the students and did not want job quotas for freedom fighters families to be extended either: the court opened that closed chapter and triggered an outcry.

The target was her government; the quota issue was clearly an excuse to riot. As a survivor of motivated unrest, Sheikh Hasina should have known that firing on students would incite further violence. So the thought arises whether she had lost control of her own law enforcement agencies, who in turn did their bit to further inflame sentiments by firing straight into crowds, killing hundreds of people. That surreptitious elements were at work there is evident.

Bangladesh was born amid the blood of lakhs of students and teachers ruthlessly slaughtered by razakars  Pakistani agents  in the months prior to the 1971 war on the orders of Pakistans General Yahya Khan and executed by General Tikka Khan. Sheikh Hasinas father was the focal point of that maelstrom as he had won the election but the West Pakistani leaders would not let him assume office. The deadlock worsened and led to the liberation war.

Therefore, it is particularly painful that young men, presumably students, possibly swayed by regressive Islamist elements, actually vandalised a statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman  the man who brought them freedom  by repeatedly using a hammer to hit his head. The symbolism of that is both painful and scary. Are these men unaware of who he was and what he did? Or are they agents of anti-Mujib forces who now smell blood, quite literally?

The fact that the founder of Bangladesh was assassinated en famille barely three years after he brought them freedom shows that the country is deeply, and perhaps intrinsically, divided. Just like Islam was not enough to keep the two wings of Pakistan together, it is abundantly clear that the Bengali language  a key component of separatist sentiment  has not been enough to keep independent Bangladesh united either. There are contradictory agendas.

News that Taliban flags are being seen alongside the Bangladeshi ones are an ominous sign of what (and who) could be lurking behind the facade of an academic-led interim government. Muslim fundamentalists had got short shrift from Sheikh Hasina for the past 15 years and will obviously aim to cash in on the chaos and the relative inexperience of the stop-gap government. And the students are prime targets for conversion to their extremist goals.

Arguably, given her vast experience, Sheikh Hasina should have realised that pressure was building to uncontrollable levels. Maybe she did. Given that Bangladesh has had a precedent of an interim government, maybe she has retreated in order to stage a recovery and fight her way back to power again. Only age is not in her favour. And the price to be paid for her hanging on to power may be very high indeed  for Awami League and the minorities.

India cannot, in all good faith, remain immune to the plight of the 13 million Hindus in the crosshairs of resurgent Islamists and revenge brigades. If Dhaka is volatile and dangerous, the situation in the hinterland is far, far worse. There are already frantic calls from Hindu Bangladeshis requesting visas to come to India legally; obviously that will not be possible in the midst of all the unrest. So what are the other options available to the Hindu minorities? Pray?

The role of China in fomenting the unrest cannot be discounted, even though it ruthlessly represses Islamic elements within its own borders. With the fall of Hasina, who had cocked a snook by indicating that the Teesta project would go to India, one more of our immediate neighbours has imploded, a situation very beneficial to China. Pakistan, Nepal, Maldives and Sri Lanka are already in the Sino-sphere; now Bangladesh looks set to finally join them.

With the US preoccupied with a tricky presidential election and complications in Gaza and Ukraine, it leaves the field open for Chinese shenanigans. US President Joe Biden has not had a great record in reining in China, and Chinese supremo Xi Jinping has also been keen to reassert Chinese importance amid a slowing economy. Big ticket Chinese investments in Bangladesh would be welcomed there as the interim government is highly likely to be anti-India.

Democracy is a word and a concept that Islamist elements have often used to their benefit in several countries, even though their own record on that count has been uniformly abysmal. The same playbook is being used in Bangladesh again, with an eye to keeping useful idiots in the west (including the media there) on their side. Painting Sheikh Hasina as an autocrat and deposing her with continued protests by impassioned students has been an effective strategy.

In 1975, there was a similar outcry against Sheikh Mujibur Rahman although his assassination was carried out by mid-level army officers and their senior fellow officer Ziaur Rahman eventually took power. Mercifully, this time there was no assassination and Sheikh Hasina was able to fly out of Dhaka safely. It is poignant that Sheikh Hasina is in India again as her nation is aflame as she and her husband lived in New Delhis Pandara Park from 1975 to 1981.

Her sister Rehana (who has also reportedly fled with her this time) moved to Britain with her family in 1975. It is rumoured that both sisters will head to the UK, where Tulip Siddiq (Rehanas daughter) is a member of Parliament and a minister in the Starmer government but there are no guarantees. Meanwhile Bangladesh will continue to be in tumult as Islamists and peaceful coexistence are mutually incompatible. Cry, my beloved birthplace.

The author is a freelance writer. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
India is on its path to becoming the worlds third-largest economy. Once that goal is achieved, India will have only two countries to beat over a longer period of time  China and the United States of America. For long, there has been a belief in global strategic circles that Beijing and Washington have a tacit understanding on the lines of G2".

India is a country whose rise threatens both China and the US, and as such, the interests of Washington and Beijing to contain New Delhi appear to be converging. What has played out in Bangladesh in recent weeks, culminating on Monday with the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, is a stark reminder of how Indias interests can be sacrificed at the altar of American and Chinese desires for regional and global domination.

The Americans want a naval base in Bangladesh, a demand Sheikh Hasina time and again rejected. As for the Chinese, they will settle for anything that turns the equations against India in the subcontinent. It is not surprising, therefore, that top Indian intelligence sources have spoken to News18 of an ISI plot, and active Pakistani involvement in the ongoing unrest and violence in Bangladesh.

While China uses its proxy, Pakistan, to raise the tempo against India in Jammu and Kashmir, the PLA is keeping the Indian Army busy along the LAC. Parallelly, the US has been making moves which are visibly detrimental to Indian interests. These range from frequent remarks by the State Department and White House on Indias internal affairs, to even hitjobs masquerading as government reports highlighting the supposed rise of intolerance against minorities in our country.

Already, Pakistan is trying to remodel the Kashmir conflict into a resistance" against supposed fascism, so that the world sees it on the lines of what is happening in Gaza. This is according to an analysis by DisInfo Labs. India was, in any case, facing the prospect of a two-front conflict with Pakistan and China. What the unrest and altered equation in Bangladesh does is potentially open a third front against India.

Read More: Straight Talk | Third Front Rising: India Needs a Plan B to Deal with Bangladesh Post Sheikh Hasina

Add to that, Washingtons tacit support for Khalistanis only adds to Indias worries. The US is yet to take any concrete steps to address Indian concerns about the threats posed by Khalistani elements harboured on American soil. The question to ask, therefore, is this: will Punjab be the next front that the American deep state opens against India?

We are obviously seeing an attempt to bog India down with domestic and regional troubles, at a time when the country should be focusing on its economy in a mission mode. Has the idea of a Viksit Bharat" by 2047 startled global hegemons, who may now be interested in ensuring Indias growth trajectory is stunted due to emerging security challenges? The answer is blowing in the wind.

The United States is pivoting towards the Indo-Pacific. The process of that pivot, as is now evident, is classically American. Wherever Washington has historically turned its attention to, under the shroud of countering a rising power (in this case, China and India), chaos and anarchy have followed. One need not strain ones eyes looking at the previous century. Since 2010 alone, American involvement in the Arab Spring protests and the Euromaidan demonstrations in Ukraine has had devastating consequences for the Middle East and Europe.

The American model of dominating the world is simple: control the levers of global economy and trade, exert extraordinary power over multilateral organisations and global financial institutions, all while carefully ensuring that the domestic military-industrial complex remains flush with cash as it meets global demands for arms and ammunition.

It is not a coincidence that America fights all its wars in third-world countries. These countries comprise what is known in more academic circles as the periphery" of the world. It is a part of the world that is, using a variety of tools  like democracy, sanctions, regime change, wars, et al  kept in a perpetual cycle of instability, chaos and stagnation. The Global South poses a threat to the collective domination of developed Western countries. It is for this reason that the Global South is kept busy fighting its battles  whether economic or military.

However, there are outliers. Countries like India, China and even Russia represent a threat to the world order that the US has spent so much time and resources building, over several decades. As far as Russia is concerned, the US is already embroiled in a proxy war with it  one being fought in Ukraine. A conflict between China and the United States also appears on the horizon, especially if Beijing makes a move on Taiwan. Then there is India. Washington is supposed to be New Delhis friend. However, if it allows India to continue on the trajectory it is on, it will not be long before this friend becomes a competitor globally. It is for this reason that we now see signs of an effort to contain India.

Trouble in Indias neighbourhood helps the US keep New Delhis rise in check. Meanwhile, it also serves the purpose of China  which is to bog India down on multiple fronts. Reports indicate that China-backed insurgents are making steady progress in Myanmar. That is another front that we need to keenly watch.

With a BNP-Jamaat regime set to take control of Bangladesh, China practically finds both its hands in a cookie jar. Even if Bangladesh tilts towards the US from here on, China will be rather satisfied knowing that a pro-India regime has been toppled in Dhaka.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami are both antagonistic towards India. The Jamaat, in fact, has not-so-secretive links with Pakistan and its intelligence service. The same parties have also been running an India Out" campaign lately, calling on Bangladeshis to boycott Indian goods. It is apprehended that Pakistan could now try to reactivate dormant insurgencies in Indias Northeast. These outfits, during the previous BNP-Jamaat rule, found safe refuge and even patronage in Bangladesh.

While the US, China and Pakistan all stand to gain from the new reality in Bangladesh, albeit to varying degrees, they will all take solace in knowing that India has been removed from the equation. While the events in Bangladesh represent a major strategic setback for New Delhi, they must not become the premise for us to abandon Bangladesh altogether. This is far too important and strategically placed a country to be left to land on American, Chinese and Pakistani laps. Even if Indias efforts to retain its position in Bangladesh do not fructify, we would have at least tried.

At the end of the day, however, it is for Bangladesh to decide how it engages with India. A friendly approach will be much appreciated, but it is not like India does not know how to deal with hostile neighbours.
West Bengals Didi seems to have sensed what was coming. Mamata Banerjees recent remarks on student protests and political turmoil reflect her thorough groundwork, ensuring the states preparedness amid the fall of Sheikh Hasinas regime in neighbouring Bangladesh.

Post her remarks on student led quota-protests in Dhaka, Hasinas office  then in power  registered its displeasure with the government of India. However, Banerjee deftly protected her political turf and support base. As Bangladeshs situation worsened, her statements seemed to be a prophecy.

Several sources in the central and state security agencies stated that Banerjee, with her astute political acumen and extensive network, anticipated a huge political turmoil in the neighbouring country and its likely impact on the state and was monitoring the situation closely.

Starting with events like the enclave exchange, contentious Teesta water-sharing agreement, the instance of one of the assassins of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman assuming a new identity while hiding in the state for 20 years, and finally the alleged planned murder of Bangladeshs Awami League MP in Rajarhat (northern fringe of Kolkata), West Bengal has consistently borne the brunt of political instability in the region, compounded by the complex dynamics of India-Bangladesh bilateral relations.

With the fall of Hasinas regime and her party Awami League, West Bengal, its borders and several districts are back in a state of flux.

Didis dynamics

Despite significant Bengali and Bangladeshi business and political interests intertwined, and Muslims being a crucial political demographic in West Bengal, Banerjee has maintained a firm grasp on cross-border dynamics.

She is recognised as one of the shrewdest and wisest politicians in this regard and knows how to protect her turf without antagonising her crucial support base.

Multiple sources in central and state security agencies told News18 that the West Bengal chief minister was well-informed and closely monitored the political developments in Bangladesh. Her recent remarks on the student protests, refugees, and the political turmoil reflect her thorough groundwork and awareness.

As the events unfolded in Bangladesh on August 5, starting with Sheikh Hasina resigning and leaving her official residence, the chief ministers office in Bengal appeared prepared. The states police establishment and security agencies were well briefed, indicating Banerjees grasp on the interplay between regional politics and the states security.

Wired Relations

Since its formation in 1971, Bangladesh has experienced numerous violent regime changes, with the army and caretaker governments often stepping in during periods of political turmoil. The neighbouring country has always been a point of contention and concern for India, with all developments  political, economic and social  having significant implications on West Bengal. The state bears most of the political and economic ramifications, primarily due to the shared past of partition, legacy and parentage.

Throughout these turbulent times, Hasina has maintained not only a friendly relationship with the government of India but also cordial and almost familial ties with West Bengals chief ministers. This includes Left Front leaders Jyoti Basu and Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, as well as the current chief minister. Hasina led a 30-member delegation to Kolkata in 2010 after Basu died and paid tributes to him in the states assembly. She also called Banerjee her younger sister and maintained a personal bond with her.

Banerjee always reciprocated the warmth, barring the time when she was asked to give her consent for the Teesta water-sharing treaty. The impasse over the treaty fuels resentment in Bangladesh, where there is a perception that India  particularly West Bengal  is not acting fairly. This adds to the complexity of bilateral relations and influences internal politics in Bangladesh, with political parties using it as a rallying point against perceived Indian dominance.

The murder of a Bangladeshi MP in Rajarhat also highlighted the intricate and sometimes fraught connections between the two regions. Such incidents can strain diplomatic relations and raise security issues, affecting cross-border cooperation and trust.

Fading Camaraderie

With multiple geo-political and regional issues, this long-standing camaraderie seems to be now fraying. For the first time, Banerjee was excluded from a crucial meeting between India and Bangladesh on the Teesta water-sharing issue.

Expressing her displeasure, Banerjee registered her protest. Recently, she made a statement in response to the violent peak of the student movement in Dhaka, which led to an unprecedented diplomatic row. The Bangladeshi government lodged a formal protest with the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, marking a significant departure from the previously warm relations.

In fact, Hasinas security detail chose to land in Agartala and Delhi, but not in Kolkata, which has the closest ties with her.

West Bengals geopolitical significance means that any unrest or political change in Bangladesh reverberates in the state, affecting everything from security policies to economic agreements. The intertwined nature of their histories, economies, and cultures makes West Bengal a critical stakeholder in Bangladeshs political landscape where developments can have immediate and profound effects on its own stability and progress. Banerjee is also aware of the politics of it and is careful about the demographic dividend.
National leaders reacted to wrestler Vinesh Phogats unfortunate disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024 and strongly blamed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for the same. NCP leader Praful Patel slammed the IOC over Vineshs disqualification for failing to make the weight on the morning of her 50 kg gold medal and stressed that regulations must be taken care of prior to the competition.

Once you enter the competition and reach all the way to the finals and then get disqualified with this excuse, is not acceptable, Patel said.

Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics after she could not make the weight on the morning of her 50 kg gold medal bout on Wednesday.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi hoped that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) would strongly challenge this decision and provide justice to the daughter of the country.

It is unfortunate that Vinesh Phogat, Indias pride, who reached the finals after defeating world champion wrestlers, was disqualified on technical grounds. We have full hope that the Indian Olympic Association will strongly challenge this decision and provide justice to the daughter of the country. Vinesh is not one to give up, we are confident that she will come back stronger in the arena. You have always made the country proud Vinesh. Even today the whole country stands with you as your strength, Gandhi wrote in an X post.

                                                  ,  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 7, 2024

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to the microblogging site X and said this misfortune is merely an exception in Vineshs trailblazing career.

Vinesh Phogats setback in the Olympics has certainly broken the hopes of millions of Indians. She has a brilliant sporting career, shining with the glory of defeating the world champion. This misfortune is merely an exception in her trailblazing career, from which I am sure she will bounce back to be the winner she always is. Our best wishes and support are always with her, Shah said.

Vinesh Phogats setback in the Olympics has certainly broken the hopes of millions of Indians. She has a brilliant sporting career, shining with the glory of defeating the world champion. This misfortune is merely an exception in her trailblazing career, from which I am sure she Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2024

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary said the Indian government is prioritising the matter and the whole nation stands with Vinesh Phogat.

We are deeply saddened. She has worked really hard to reach there the whole nation is with her. The Government of India is giving priority to it and PM Modi has taken cognizance of it and whatever appeal process is there will be done, he said.

#WATCH | On Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogats disqualification from #ParisOlympics2024, Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary says, We are deeply saddened. She has worked really hard to reach there the whole nation is with her. The Government of India is giving priority to it and PM pic.twitter.com/1epfqGvdCA ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2024

Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram said, I hope that the Indian Olympic contingent will explore all the possibilities of appeal and redressal whichever is permitted as per the protocols of Olympics. Its unfortunate that she is disqualified.

#WATCH | On Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogats disqualification from #ParisOlympics2024, Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram says, I hope that the Indian Olympic contingent will explore all the possibilities of appeal and redressal whichever is permitted as per the protocols of pic.twitter.com/BtUKgEyOik ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Indian Olympics Association (IOA) president PT Usha about wrestler Vinesh Phogats disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024 and asked her to explore the full range of options to help Vineshs case, sources said.

Catch Paris Olympics 2024 Day 12 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 Congress in Maharashtra is riding high on the morale and confidence of its cadre following the favourable results of the recent Lok Sabha elections. With the stage now set for the assembly polls, the Grand Old Party is in the mood to demand more seats from its MVA partners after it won 13 seats of the 17 it contested, positioning itself as the dominant force in the alliance.

A source within the party revealed that senior leaders believe the people of Maharashtra have once again placed their trust in the Congress, with support coming from Muslims and Dalits after nearly a decade. This renewed confidence is driving the party to push for a greater share of seats. While the exact number of seats they will request remains undisclosed, the partys high command has reportedly given the green light to negotiate firmly. They plan to protect traditional strongholds and insist on seats where their candidates are stronger than those of their alliance partners.

During the recent general elections, a tussle between the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) over a few seats in Mumbai and western Maharashtra was evident. Tensions ran so high that both parties considered breaking the alliance over the Sangli seat. Ultimately, the Congress conceded the seat to Shiv Sena (UBT), which led to party leader Vishal Patil running as an Independent and winning the election by defeating the official MVA candidate.

Congress leaders are now focused on their strike rate. The strategy team recently presented three scenarios to the state leadership related to seat sharing. The first scenario involves the party securing around 120 seats, outlining which seats they should claim and the strategy to adopt. The second scenario considers a range of 100-115 seats, discussing potential exchanges with alliance partners. The third scenario, where the party may secure fewer than 100 seats, also outlines possible strategies. The leadership is keen to emphasise the strike rate as, post-election, it could be a key factor in determining which party gets the chief ministers post if the MVA succeeds.

The Congress has already begun drafting its manifesto, which will later be adopted by its MVA partners with minor modifications.

The Save the Constitution narrative worked well for the INDIA bloc, but the challenge now lies in keeping it relevant in the context of the Maharashtra state polls. The party is also preparing to counter the state governments CM Ladki Bahin scheme, which promises eligible women Rs 1,500 per month as financial assistance. Over one crore women have already applied for the scheme, and payments are expected to start by the end of this month. Given the schemes potential to influence voters, as seen in Madhya Pradesh, the Congress and MVA are preparing a counter-campaign.

Issues such as farmers concerns, unemployment, youth challenges, the states financial burden, and the exodus of big projects to other states are expected to be focal points in the MVAs manifesto.

The Congress also believes that the 50 Khoke Ekdam Ok campaign, led by Shiv Sena (UBT) against Eknath Shindes faction, should be revived. This campaign, which targets leaders who switched sides for money, will be crucial in constituencies with such MLAs. The party aims to remind voters in these areas not to support candidates who sold their loyalty for financial gain.

The first meeting of MVA allies regarding seat sharing is likely to take place on Wednesday in Mumbai. Uddhav Thackeray is on a three-day Delhi tour and will meet Congress high command and party president Mallikarjun Kharge and state in-charge Ramesh Chennithala.
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla hit out at senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid over his remarks signalling the possibility of similar unrest in India to that in neighbouring Bangladesh. The BJP leader accused the Congress party of inciting violence and undermining Bharats democratic institutions.

In their hatred for Modi they hate Bharat. Salman Khursheed / Congress draws parallel & incites / prays for violence of Bangladesh to take place in Bharat? Does he want Hindus to be attacked in Bharat? Who is he signalling to? His family already said Vote Jihad once..now actual violence? Is this not undermining of Bharats democratic institutions? Not the first time they put Rajniti above Rashtra niti.. Will Congress act on him? Poonawalla wrote in an X post.

In their hatred for Modi they hate BharatSalman Khursheed / Congress draws parallel & incites / prays for violence of Bangladesh to take place in Bharat?Does he want Hindus to be attacked in Bharat? Who is he signalling to? His family already said Vote Jihad once..now pic.twitter.com/jBLEb4pT7X  Shehzad Jai Hind (Modi Ka Parivar) (@Shehzad_Ind) August 7, 2024

Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Tuesday had hinted at the possibility of similar anti-government protests in India to those in Bangladesh despite the normalcy on the surface.

Everything may look normal in Kashmir. Everything may look normal here. We may be celebrating the victory although some people believe that victory or success in 2024 was perhaps only marginal and a lot more needs to be done. The fact remains that beneath the surface, there is something. The fact remains that what happened in Bangladesh could happen here. The spread in our country prevents things from blowing up in the manner they have in Bangladesh, Khurshid had said while speaking at an event.

Congress Leaders React

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor denied to comment on Salman Khurshids remarks. I dont want to react to it, he said.
The Bharatiya Janata Party has put a gag order on its West Bengal unit regarding the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, News18 has learnt. The central leadership was concerned about statements coming from different leaders of its state unit hurting bilateral relations between the two countries, said sources.

According to the sources, a senior general secretary of the BJP informally issued the gag order, prohibiting even senior state leaders from speaking on the matter. This development comes close on the heels of BJPs West Bengal leader of opposition Suvendu Adhikari making a sensational claim that the state should be ready for 1 crore Hindu refugees from Bangladesh which witnessed a regime change. Minorities in Bangladesh are facing targeted violence, including the Hindu community which constitutes 8% of the population.

The 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, surprising even many of his party colleagues. He went a step further and urged chief minister Mamata Banerjee and governor CV Ananda Bose to speak to the Centre about the issue.

Soon after the informal gag order was issued, Suvendu Adhikari came to Delhi to meet party president JP Nadda and union home minister Amit Shah. However, Adhikari dismissed any suggestion that he was summoned to Delhi. On the contrary, he said, he came to share his concerns about Bangladesh with Shah and had sought an appointment. He maintained that his meeting with Nadda pertained to party affairs.

I came to express my concerns about attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. The home minister has assured me saying that the Centre is alert to ensure no further damage happens to them, the Bengal BJP leader said in Delhi.

Adhikaris sudden statement in Bengal about asking the CM and governor to get ready for one crore refugees was quickly followed by a rare agreement between chief minister Mamata Banerjee and the Centre, where she left any approach to the issue of Bangladesh to the union government. The CM said publicly, The Government of India will decide on how to approach this issue and I appeal to leaders of all political parties to refrain from making provocative comments that may disrupt peace in Bengal or the country  Some BJP leaders have already commented on it. It should not be done.

The gag order by the powerful BJP general secretary came soon after that, said sources.

Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog.
Apple is planning to upgrade its Mac lineup with the highly anticipated M4-chipset by later this year. As per Bloomberg, the company is going bring the new in-house processors designed to highlight artificial intelligence (AI). Also, the company might be introducing a new Mac Mini this year.

The report suggested that Apple is going to revamp its MacBook Pro lineup, as well as a redesigned Mac Mini, both of which will use the new M4 silicon. There will be new iMacs, a low-end 14-inch MacBook Pro, high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros and Mac Minis, all featuring M4 processors.

Talking about the M4 chip, the company launched the chipset along with their new iPad Pro model at their Let Loose event earlier this year. It uses TSMC's (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited) advanced second-generation 3nm process promising enhanced performance and efficiency.

While the processor is currently available in Apples most powerful iPad Pro, it is expected to appear in the MacBook Pro and iMac models by the end of this year, making it more powerful and efficient.

Mark Gurman, in his report, stated that the MacBook Air, Mac Studio and Mac Pro will also receive the M4 enhancements, however, they are scheduled for 2025. The new chip will come in at least three main varieties and Apple is looking to update every Mac model with it, he added.

The entry-level M4 chip, codenamed Donan, will power the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air and Mac mini. The first high-end chip, codenamed Brava, will debut in the Mac Studio, higher-spec MacBook Pro models and a higher-end Mac mini. However, the highest-end Apple desktop, the Mac Pro will be getting the new Hydra Chip, as per 9To5Mac.

According to the report, the M4 chip will primarily improve the computer performance, but one Mac model will undergo significant alterations. This could be a new Mac mini model, which the analyst claims will be released this year.

The company last introduced a new Mac mini model in 2023 with an M2 chip. However, since then there have been no major upgrades to its Mac Mini models.
Tipping is a matter of preference in India, whereas it is a well-established and widely accepted culture in the US. A tip of at least 20% is customary in the US for meals, and at least $1 is tipped for drinks at bars. However, this gesture of gratitude has gone out of control in recent years since practically no payment transaction in the US is now completed without a request for a tip. A simple Google search will provide millions of articles denouncing the absurdity of this approach. Recently, a woman was horrified when her nail salon demanded a minimum 75% additional tip for beatification work.

Gaby LaCorte detailed the incident in a TikTok video. She was quoted by the NY Post stating, Tipping culture in the United States has gotten out of control.

The mother-of-two reportedly paid $21 for an eyebrow wax at the unidentified cosmetologist, according to the media outlet. But when she tried to leave a tip on the iPad and noticed that the amounts varied from 75% to 100%.

In other words, unless she chose the custom tip option, she would have to pay at least $36.75 in total.

LaCorte asked, referring to the cosmetologist, Is she ok?

Because it generally shows 15%, the influencer believes that many people clicked on the 75% option out of habit.

LaCorte said, That really bothered me; Im not going back to her.

A Pew Research Centre survey from November 2023 stated that most Americans believe they are now requested to tip service providers more often than in the past.

Seven in ten American respondents (72%) believe that tipping is anticipated in more locations now than it was five years ago.

This conclusion is consistent with anecdotal reporting and has been nicknamed tipflation.

About two out of ten Americans (21%) believe it to be more of a preference, while 29% believe it to be more of a requirement. The majority (49%) state that it depends on the circumstance.

LaCortes incident, meanwhile, is a part of an ongoing trend known as guilt tipping, when customers are persuaded into leaving larger tips at fast-food restaurants, coffee shops, pizzerias, and other establishments with subpar customer service.
People fond of travelling prefer to check in at a hotel room with a view. When someone is visiting the coastal area, the most preferable room would be with a sea face, so one can enjoy and unwind while witnessing an epic sunrise or sunset and look at the waves. A woman traveller did the same during her visit to Westerland in Germany.

A travel influencer, Sonja Dennig reportedly got catfished on a vacation after she booked a sea-side facing room in a hotel, only to reach there and discover that she had been scammed. Sonja booked accommodation on Westerland on Sylt, an idyllic island in Germanys North Sea for a weekend getaway. But as soon as she turned up at the hotel, she realised she had been duped. The scenery which she saw online, turned out to be a photo.

Sonja Dennig was in utter disbelief when she reached the hotel and saw that it was just a seaside poster hung over a basement window. The light near the window added a shine as if it was sunlight and hence, the woman fell prey to the optical illusion it created and booked the room.

While booking she thought, Wow, what a great view I have. But the reality was far-fetched and in an interview with a news portal she said, it was just a photo. We are just in the basement.

She also joked, Youre in bed, its midnight, but you think its either evening or morning sun. Its pretty amazing.

Previously, an Argentinian travel influencer fell prey to something similar. While planning a vacation and booking a hotel accommodation, she too wanted a room with a sea view. Clarisa Murgia was on a trip to Italy and booked an expensive room for a great view. However, later it turned out that she had fallen prey to a false promise. It was a wall poster of a building on the other side of the road.
Mark Zuckerberg had undergone surgery for a knee injury caused by mixed martial arts training. The Meta CEO and tech mogul revealed that he had torn his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in an Instagram post on November 4. Zuckerberg received the injury while sparring as part of his preparation for an MMA fight scheduled for early 2024 which was ultimately delayed a bit. Nine months have passed since Zuckerberg underwent ACL surgery, and he has now shared a video of his recovery journey on Instagram.

Sharing the video, Mark Zuckerberg wrote, Officially 9 months since ACL surgery. LFG.

In the footage, he is shown warming up in November 2023 and resting on a hospital bed following an injury. He may be seen using crutches to walk, exercising and eventually giving up the use of walking aids. The footage captures his rigorous training regimen throughout these months and his eventual return to the MMA arena in August 2024.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck)

The video has over 23 million views. Users in the comments section were glad for his quick recovery.

A user commented in all caps, HES GOT NO QUIT.

Another user humorously stated, Bro just inspired me to go for a walk (to the mailbox).

An individual congratulated him saying, Congrats on the full recovery, Mark!

Coming back stronger than ever, read a comment.

According to Fortune, Zuckerberg began practising martial arts in 2020 and won gold and silver medals in his first Brazilian jujitsu tournament in May 2023.

The tech billionaire started practising Brazilian jujitsu amid the pandemic and took part in the Memorial Day Murph Challenge, which honours a Navy SEAL who died in service in Afghanistan.

The challenge included exercises like running a mile and performing 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats and a 20-pound weighted vest.

Elon Musk challenged Zuckerberg to a cage fight in June 2023, via his social media network X (formerly Twitter). A few hours later, Zuckerberg replied, Send me the location, on his Instagram social media page.

Musk stated that he was physically getting ready for what he called a civilised form of war in an August post on X.

Am lifting weights throughout the day, preparing for the fight. Dont have time to work out, so I just bring them to work.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 6, 2023

He went on to say that he could need surgery and that he was getting an MRI on his upper back and neck. Zuckerberg finally mentioned that its time to move on and that Elon isnt serious after much back and forth but no physical altercation.
A video has stormed the social media which shows the horrifying reality of the United States of America, which claims to be the worlds largest economy. The clip shows how many citizens of the USA are poor and homeless and are living their lives in shambles. This video on Instagram starts with a man wearing rags, seemingly malnourished and waving the USAs flag. The clip then shows the people begging for alms and sleeping on streets with makeshift tents as their only shelter. As seen in this clip, people are running away from these poor natives and are apprehensive about helping them. We can also see a huge pile of clothes lying on the streets and a woman making her way through them. The clip then goes on to show people searching for other life necessities from the dirt, pointing out the poor means of leaving for citizens in the country. The videos caption reads, I feel sorry for the homeless . The text overlay on the caption reads, The America we dont see on TV.

Social media users were infuriated over this situation and expressed their anger in the comment section. One of them wrote, And the government donating billions of dollars to Ukraine. Media will not report or show this, read the other comment. Another wrote that the American government, unfortunately, classifies African countries as third-world and underdeveloped. On the contrary, the user added further that African countries dont have this level of homelessness in comparison to the US. A user also blamed mass immigration in the USA for these problems.

As per the reports, the USA is a relatively wealthy country by international standards. It has a persistently high poverty rate compared to other developed countries due in part to a less generous welfare system. According to an article published in The New York Times Magazine, things like cell phones have become cheaper in America. The cost of the most necessary of lifes necessities, like health care and rent, has increased. From 2000 to 2022 in the average American city, the cost of fuel and utilities increased by 115 per cent.
50,000 employees of Kiran Gems, a diamond production business situated in Surat, will get a 10-day holiday from August 1727. This unusual move is in response to the worldwide markets diminishing preference for polished diamonds. The diamond makers have been enduring challenges since the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022. The US further put restrictions on diamonds with Russian origins and the G-7 nations announced an embargo on the same. The official website for Kiran Gems claims that it is the largest manufacturer of natural diamonds worldwide.

Vallabhbhai Lakhani, chairman of Kiran Gems, stated in an interview with Indian Express that the diamond business has been going through a bad patch. Lakhani, citing the recession, asserted that there is no worldwide market for polished diamonds.

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, he added.

According to him, the demand for polished diamonds would increase and help the sector if supply is managed. However, the value of polished diamonds is down internationally, making it more difficult for diamond makers to operate their businesses.

Kiran Gems has announced an early cutback in gem production with the objective of controlling supply and perhaps driving up prices. Traditionally, diamond manufacturing firms in Gujarat extend their breaks around Diwali.

Speaking to PTI, Vallabhbhai stated that all workers will receive their salaries at this time even though certain amounts will be withheld.

Kiran Gems is an authorised buyer of raw diamonds from De Beers, a major international diamond firm, with a yearly turnover of Rs 17,000 crore. Notably, the decision to take a holiday comes after De Beers said the production of rough diamonds fell by 15% in the second quarter of the 2024 fiscal year compared to the first quarter.

The massive diamond firm employs more than 50,000 diamond polishers, of whom 40,000 work with natural diamonds while 10,000 work with lab-grown diamonds.

Jagdish Khunt, head of the Surat Diamond Association, agreed with Lakhani, claiming that the local diamond sector, which processes roughly 90% of the worlds diamonds, had suffered from the recession.

Khunt told PTI that some of the issues that may have impacted demand internationally include the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the Israeli offensive in Gaza. He continued by saying that the revenue of the diamond business has dropped from over Rs 2,25,000 crore in 2022 to roughly Rs 1,50,000 crore now.

So, we have been negative for the last two years, he said.
Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh are a major cause of concern for the Indian government and even other governments believe minorities are not safe there, top intelligence sources told CNN-News18 on Wednesday.

According to reports from local media and functionaries of Hindu minority groups in Dhaka, at least 97 places of the community have been attacked amid the ongoing political unrest. An ISKCON temple, a Kali Mandir, and homes of Hindus are among them.

Hindu councillor Haradhan Roy was also murdered by protesters, said a source. The home of celebrated musician Rahul Ananda was looted and torched. In a very systematic way, radicals have burnt the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre and Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country in a military aircraft and landed in India on Monday as the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum after long-running protests against job quotas boiled over.

Bangladesh has seen nearly 4,000 attacks against its Hindu community since January 2013, said the sources.

These are systematic attacks with one mindset and keeping two things in mind  attacks on Hindus by Islamists, and Hindus are close to Sheikh Hasina because of her proximity to India. Ongoing communal violence after Hasinas departure is not spontaneous but deliberate and well-orchestrated, a source said.

It has been found, said the sources, that multiple factors have played an important role in these constant attacks.

The inaction of the state agencies is because they have decided to let this continue for some time. Now the Islamist groups have found a reason to attack Hindus that Indian policies are anti-Muslim and we have a reason to attack Hindus, a source said.

Top intelligence officials believe these attacks are nothing but an act of terror, which was controlled by Hasina.

Now these attackers have an open agenda which the state will also sponsor for a long time so that more negotiations can happen or they can give a handle to the international community. This will increase more in the days to come because of Saudi money for radical Islam, and also many Bangladeshis have gone to West Asia after the oil boom. They are also doing well in the Gulf and they want radical Islam in Bangladesh, said a source. Many of them have come back in old age with huge money and now want religion to spread through radicals.

In the last 15 years, many radical political parties and groups like Ansarullah Bangla Team, Hizb ut-Tahrir, and Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) have emerged in the country.

These groups have attacked secular intellectuals, terrorised the Hindu community, and launched dramatic terrorist attacks, including in Dhaka. The Hasina government wanted to crack down on them, but it was insufficient, said a source.

Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog.
Sheikh Hasina, Bangladeshs ousted prime minister who fled to India following mass protests against her government, is planning to stay in Delhi for a little while, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy said on Wednesday. The 76-year-old Awami League leader landed at an airbase near Delhi on Monday and later shifted to a safe location under tight security.

All rumours

During a video interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle, Joy was asked about Hasinas reported plans to seek asylum in a third country. These are all rumours. She has not made a decision on that yet. She is going to stay in Delhi for a little while. My sister is with her. So she is not alone, Joy said.

Hasinas daughter Saima Wazed is World Health Organisations Regional Director for the South-East Asia Region, which has its headquarters in New Delhi. Hasinas plan to travel to London has hit a roadblock following the UKs hesitation to provide her refuge. Rehanas daughter Tulip Siddiq is a member of the British Parliament.

Joy, who spoke on the current volatile situation in Bangladesh, was also asked if he has any plan to join politics when he laughed it off saying: There is no such plan right now. This is the third time a coup detat was staged against our family. All his family members, except Hasina, were already staying abroad for a long time and settled in their respective lives, he said and answered in negative to Sheikh Rehana and or any other family members chance of joining politics.

READ MORE: Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Indian Mission In Dhaka To Remain Functional; Attacks On Hindus Strongly Condemned

Meanwhile In Bangladesh

Chaos reigned supreme in Bangladesh after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government on Monday, with police absent from their duty to keep law and order or manage traffic. Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG) A K M Shahidur Rahman, who was appointed as the focal person of the Bangladesh Police on Tuesday to handle the current crisis, called on every member of the police force to resume their duties gradually and maintain public safety and law and order.

The students, including members of Bangladesh Scouts, were seen controlling the traffic movement at several places, the Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported. The police are friends of the people and work for the public. We cannot imagine a society without the police. Therefore, I request our police members once again to ignore rumours and return to their duties in a phased manner, ensuring that security arrangements are properly in place, said Rahman, who has now been appointed as the Director General of RAB in a fresh reshuffle on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Bangladeshs protest leaders said they expect members of an interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, to be finalised on Wednesday. Bangladeshs president appointed Yunus, who was recommended by student leaders, as the head of the interim government late on Tuesday and said the remaining members need to be finalised soon to overcome the current crisis and pave way for elections.

Interim government

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. It is critical that trust in government be restored quickly, Yunus, 84, told the Financial Times on Wednesday, adding that he was not seeking an elected role or appointment beyond the interim period.

His spokesperson said he is expected to return to Dhaka on Thursday after a medical procedure in Paris. We need calm, we need a road map to new elections and we need to get to work to prepare for new leadership, Yunus told the newspaper. Hasinas resignation had triggered jubilation across the country and crowds stormed into her official residence unopposed after she fled, ending a 15-year second stint in power.

(With agency inputs)

Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest with our live blog.
Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: BSF Stops Bangladeshi Group In West Bengal The Border Security Force (BSF) on Wednesday stopped a group of about 120-140 Bangladeshi citizens who were attempting to cross over to the Indian side from the international border in West Bengal, officials said. The force is on a high alert mode since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka early this week. The incident took place during the day at two locations under the jurisdiction of the North Bengal frontier of the force headquartered in Kadamtala, Darjeeling, the officials said. The BSF field commanders contacted their counterparts in the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the group of 120-140 persons compromising women and children were stopped and asked to return, they said. The situation all along this border is under control, the officials said.

Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Some Police Officials Violated Human Rights, Says Newly-Appointed IGP A top police official in Bangladesh on Wednesday said that the casualties of policemen in the recent violence occurred due to some unprofessional and overly ambitious officials who violated human rights. Addressing a press briefing at the Police Headquarters, newly-appointed Inspector General of Police Md Mainul Islam said some unprofessional officers did not follow the accepted principles of applying force and violated human rights. It is because of them [unprofessional officials] that this ongoing violence and casualties have occurred, he was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper.

Global Watch | How US Meddling Has Pushed Bangladesh Into Chaos and Anarchy Bangladesh is on the brink of a civil war, thanks to the meddling in its internal affairs by the United States. This meddling was evident in the run-up to the January 2024 general elections which resulted in another term for Sheikh Hasina and her party Awami League. The US and many Western countries had termed these polls unfair as it failed to unseat Hasina. The Western world has been backing the main Opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its ally Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh which has close links with Pakistans security establishment and is known for using violence as a primary tool to subjugate minorities and its opponents. Read full Article

Bangladesh Nationals Attempt to Cross Into India: BSF A large group of Bangladesh nationals gathered in patches at various locations at the International Border along North Bengal today evening. They were attempting to sneak into Indian territory. They were dispersed with the help of Border Guard Bangladesh, Civil Administration and BSF personnel,  a senior BSF officer was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh Major Concern, Gulf Money Turning Locals Radical: Sources Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh are a major cause of concern for the Indian government and even other governments believe minorities are not safe there, top intelligence sources told CNN-News18 on Wednesday. According to reports from local media and functionaries of Hindu minority groups in Dhaka, at least 97 places of the community have been attacked amid the ongoing political unrest. An ISKCON temple, a Kali Mandir, and homes of Hindus are among them. Read full Article

Hasinas Exit, Yunuss Entry: How Will It Impact India-Bangladesh Ties? The dramatic turn of events in Bangladesh  Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas resignation and fleeing the country following deadly protests against her government over a controversial quota system in jobs and the appointment of Mohammad Yunus  may impact Indias trade, security and diplomatic ties with Dhaka, according to top government sources. Nobel laureate Yunus was on Tuesday appointed as the head of Bangladeshs interim government by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, a day after Hasinas exit. Read full Article

NESO Urges Centre Not to Grant Asylum or Rehabilitate Bangladeshi Immigrants in Northeast The North East Students Organisation (NESO) on Wednesday urged the Centre not to grant asylum or rehabilitate immigrants from strife-torn Bangladesh in any of the northeastern states of India. NESO, which is an umbrella organisation of students bodies from the northeastern states, urged the Union government also to ensure strict checking to prevent illegal entry from the neighbouring country. Not a single Bangladeshi should be granted asylum or rehabilitated in the entire northeastern region, NESO chairman Samuel Jyrwa said in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said it is imperative for the Union government to ensure that the international border in the northeastern region is thoroughly and strictly manned so as to detect attempted illegal immigration from across the border. Tripura shares an 856 km-long border with Bangladesh, while Meghalaya has 443 km, Mizoram 318 km and Assam 262 km border with the neighbouring country.  PTI

Bangladesh President Shahabuddin Orders Police To Be Strict To Stop Anarchy Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has ordered police to take tough measures to stop the anarchy and looting after the fall of the Awami League government in a popular uprising. The president delivered the order after newly appointed Inspector General of Police Md Mainul Islam went to meet him at Bangabhaban on Wednesday, bdnews24 reported. In a statement, Bangabhaban said that President Shahabuddin gave the order to take necessary steps to ensure that every police member can perform their duties with high morale and courage maintaining the chain of command.

Nobel Laureate Yunus to Head Bangladesh Interim Govt; Swearing-In Set For Thursday Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh will take oath on Thursday, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, General Waker said the interim government is likely to be sworn in at 8:00pm on Thursday. He also said the advisory council may have 15 members.

Not 'Anger' Or 'Revenge' But 'Love And Peace' Will Rebuild Bangladesh, Says Khaleda Zia A day after her release from house arrest, Bangladeshs former prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia on Wednesday thanked the people of the country for their struggle to make possible the impossible and said it is not anger or revenge but love and peace which will rebuild the nation. In her first public speech since 2018, delivered via video link at the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) rally in Nayapaltan, 79-year-old Zia appealed for calm. She thanked people as they fought and prayed for her to be released from imprisonment, The Daily Star newspaper reported.  PTI

Bangladesh Court Overturns Yunus' Conviction In Labour Law Case, Lawyer Says A court in Bangladesh overturned on Wednesday the conviction of Muhammad Yunus, the head of the countrys interim government, in a case relating to labour law violations, the lawyer of the Nobel laureate said. Yunus was out on bail after being handed a 6-month jail sentence in January for failing to create a welfare fund for employees of Grameen Telecom, a company he founded.

Nobel Winner Yunus Urges Restraint As He Prepares To Lead Bangladesh Bangladeshs Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus, who is set to lead an interim government, has called for calm in the country after mass protests forced longtime prime minister Sheikh Hasina to flee. His appointment came quickly after student leaders called on the 84-year-old  credited with lifting millions out of poverty  to lead the country. Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes. I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm. Please refrain from all kinds of violence, Yunus said in a statement released on Wednesday, according to bdnews24. Read full Article

Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus Returning to Bangladesh on Thursday Afternoon Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus is set to return to Dhaka on Thursday as he prepares to head the interim government, Bangladeshs bdnews24 reported. Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus will arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka on the Emirates flight (EK-582) from Dubai at 2:10pm Dhaka time (GMT +6) on Thursday 8 Aug 2024 subject to the flight being on time, said Lamiya Morshed, executive director of the Yunus Centre, in a press release on Wednesday. I congratulate the brave students who took the lead in making our Second Victory Day possible and to the people for giving your total support to them, Yunus said on Wednesday.

Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Garment Factories Reopen After Sheikh Hasina's Flight Garment factories in Bangladesh, forecast to account for 90% of the countrys exports, reopened on Wednesday hoping to swiftly resume full operations after production was disrupted by violent protests that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina this week. Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday after around 300 people were killed and thousands injured in a crackdown on student-led protests since July. Garment and textile factories which supply major western brands such as H&M, Zara and Carrefour had been forced to shut under curfews imposed during the unrest. We lost a total of four days, it is too early to make an estimate of the loss. There was little physical damage to factories, Miran Ali, vice president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), told Reuters.

Bangladesh Protesters Expect Interim Government To Be Finalised Soon Bangladeshs protest leaders said they expect members of an interim government, led by Nobel 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 appointed Yunus, who was recommended by student leaders, as the head of the interim government late on Tuesday and said the remaining members need to be finalised soon to overcome the current crisis and pave way for elections. It is critical that trust in government be restored quickly, Yunus, 84, told the Financial Times on Wednesday, adding that he was not seeking an elected role or appointment beyond the interim period.

Bangladesh Unrest LIVE: Hasina To Stay In Delhi 'For A Little While', Says Her Son Bangladeshs ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India following mass protests against her government, is going to stay in Delhi for a little while, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy said on Wednesday. Hasina, the 76-year-old Awami League leader, landed at an airbase near Delhi on Monday and later shifted to a safe location in Delhi under tight security. She is accompanied by her sister Sheikh Rehana. In a video interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle, Joy was asked about Hasinas reported plans to seek asylum in a third country. These are all rumours. She has not made a decision on that yet. She is going to stay in Delhi for a little while. My sister is with her. So she is not alone, Joy said.

Unfortunate That Political Instability Prevails in Neighbourhood: Shekhawat on Bangladesh Situation Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Wednesday said India was capable of protecting its borders and preventing any adverse effect of the situation in Bangladesh from spilling over into the country. It is unfortunate that there is political instability in our neighbourhood. An elected government has been brought down in this way. I believe that a person can choose everything but not the neighbour, Shekhawat told reporters here. The Government of India is vigilant about the situation developing there and we are alert to ensure that no ill effects of the situation come on us, he said.

Hindus Being Targeted In Bangladesh, Need Unity To Fight Threat To Sanatan Dharma: Adityanath Hindus are being selectively targeted in Bangladesh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath alleged on Wednesday and called for unity to fight the threat against Sanatan Dharma. He also said the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya was not a destination but a milestone. On the second day of his Ayodhya visit, the chief minister paid tribute to the first Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra president Brahmalin Paramhans Ramchandra Das on his 21st death anniversary.  PTI

How Bangladesh Army Refused To Enforce Curfew To Suppress Protest The Night Before Hasina Fled The night before long-time leader Sheikh Hasina abruptly fled Bangladesh amid deadly protests, her army chief held a meeting with his generals and decided that troops would not open fire on civilians to enforce a curfew, two serving army officers with knowledge of the discussions told Reuters. Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman then reached out to Hasinas office, conveying to the prime minister that his soldiers would be unable to implement the lockdown she had called for, according to an Indian official briefed on the matter. Read full Article
The choice of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Kamala Harriss running mate for the 2024 US Presidential election has sparked significant interest and scepticism in China, particularly regarding his 1989 visit to the country.

On June 4, 1989, the Chinese government carried out a severe crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Beijings Tiananmen Square.

Walz, a former school teacher, first travelled to China in 1989 to teach English in Foshan, a city in Guangdong province. His visits to China, including multiple summer trips with student groups, have been noted, but his 1989 arrival has drawn particular attention, news agency AFP reported.

Adding to the controversy, the 60-year-old Minnesota governor was married to his wife Gwen on June 4, 1994the fifth anniversary of the Tiananmen Square incident.

According to a local US newspaper, the date was chosen intentionally by Walz to ensure it would be memorable. He wanted to have a date hell always remember, his wife was quoted as saying.

In China, where discussion of the Tiananmen events remains heavily censored, social media users on Wednesday have begun to questioned Walzs timing in the country. Some have speculated about possible ulterior motives behind his visit.

Is he from the CIA?

Comments on the Chinese social media platform Weibo included remarks questioning Walzs intentions and even suggesting connections to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

One user remarked, He came to China at a time of turmoil, clearly with a special mission, while another questioned, Is he from the CIA? A third user noted, Look at the year and you cant help but be sceptical.

Meanwhile, some users are closely examining Walzs potential influence on the United States and China relations if Kamala Harris is elected president.

One user speculated, If Harris is elected president, Vice President Walz will have a definite influence on her China policy.

In response to a 2016 interview where Walz commented on the potential for US-China cooperation, users expressed scepticism. 2016 was a previous era, one remarked. Another user cautioned, Dont negligently assign a persona to your opponent.

Walz had pushed back against the notion that the United States and China are necessary adversaries, a perspective that has become prevalent in Washington in recent years due to increasing trade and geopolitical tensions with Beijing.

I lived in China and as I said Ive been there about 30 times, he had told the farming news website Agri-Pulse in a 2016 interview.

(With inputs from AFP)

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Israel vowed to eliminate new Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, the alleged mastermind of the October 7 attack, whose appointment further inflamed regional tensions as the Gaza war entered its 11th month on Wednesday.

The naming of Sinwar to lead the Palestinian militant group came as Israel braced for potential Iranian retaliation over the killing of his predecessor Ismael Haniyeh last week in Tehran.

Speaking at a military base on Wednesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was determined to defend itself. We are prepared both defensively and offensively, he told new recruits.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said late Tuesday that Sinwars promotion was yet another compelling reason to swiftly eliminate him and wipe this vile organisation off the face of the earth.

Sinwar  Hamass leader in Gaza since 2017  has not been seen since the October 7 attack, which was the deadliest in Israels history. A senior Hamas official told AFP that the selection of Sinwar sent a message that the organisation continues its path of resistance.

Hamass Lebanese ally Hezbollah congratulated Sinwar and said the appointment affirms the enemy has failed to achieve its objectives by killing Hamas leaders and officials. Analysts believe Sinwar has been both more reluctant to agree to a Gaza ceasefire and closer to Tehran than Haniyeh, who lived in Qatar.

If a ceasefire deal seemed unlikely upon Haniyehs death, it is even less likely under Sinwar, according to Rita Katz, executive director of the SITE Intelligence Group. The group will only lean further into its hardline militant strategy of recent years, she added.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters that it was up to Sinwar to help achieve a ceasefire, saying he has been and remains the primary decider. Civilians in both Israel and Gaza met Sinwars appointment with unease. Mohammad al-Sharif, a displaced Gazan, told AFP: He is a fighter. How will negotiations take place?

In Tel Aviv, logistics company manger Hanan, who did not want to give his second name, said Sinwars appointment meant Hamas did not see fit to look for someone less militant, someone with a less murderous approach.

 Hezbollah vows response 

Iran-backed Hezbollah has also pledged to avenge the deaths of Haniyeh and its own military commander Fuad Shukr in an Israeli strike in Beirut hours earlier.

In a televised address to mark one week since Shukrs death, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said Tuesday his group would retaliate alone or in the context of a unified response from all the axis of Iran-backed groups in the region.

The United States, which has sent extra warships and jets to the region, urged both Iran and Israel to avoid an escalation. President Joe Biden had calls with Jordans King Abdullah II, the Qatari emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Tuesday.

No one should escalate this conflict. Weve been engaged in intense diplomacy with allies and partners, communicating that message directly to Iran. We communicated that message directly to Israel, Blinken told reporters.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in a telephone call that the West should immediately stop selling arms and supporting Israel if it wants to prevent war, his office said.

The Jeddah-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation met on Wednesday to discuss the situation in the Middle East. Gambian Foreign Minister Mamadou Tangara, whose country currently chairs the bloc, said the heinous killing of Haniyeh risked leading to a wider conflict that could involve the entire region.

Israel has not commented on Haniyehs killing but confirmed it had carried out the strike on Shukr. It held the Hezbollah commander responsible for a rocket attack in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights that killed 12 children.

 Flights cancelled 

Hezbollah has traded near-daily cross-border fire with Israeli troops throughout the Gaza war. The group said Tuesday that six of its fighters were killed in Israeli strikes on south Lebanon and that it had launched dozens of Katyusha rockets at a military base in the Golan Heights in retaliation.

Numerous airlines have suspended flights to Lebanon or limited them to daylight hours. The Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, triggered by the Palestinian groups unprecedented 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 1,198 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Palestinian militants seized 251 hostages, 111 of whom are still held in Gaza, including 39 the Israeli military says are dead.

Israels retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has killed at least 39,677 people, according to the Hamas-run territorys health ministry, which does not give details of civilian and militant deaths.

The toll included two dozen deaths in the past 24 hours, according to ministry figures. Israel said that its air force had struck dozens of terror targets throughout the Gaza Strip over the past day.

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An Orchard Park man who admitted that he was fraudulently paid by a state agency for hours that he spent working for an out-of-state contractor was sentenced Tuesday before State Court Justice Debra Givens to a one-year conditional discharge and was ordered to perform 100 hours of community service, according to the Erie County District Attorneys Office.

Prosecutors said Daniel Blamowski, 52, pleaded guilty April 30 to misdemeanor official misconduct. As a condition of the plea, Blamowski has also paid full restitution of $4,111.51 to the State of New York.

While working as an engineer for the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation between December 2020 and July 2021, Blamowski had unauthorized employment with a private development firm and worked at least 92 hours for them on the same days for which he submitted 16 timesheets claiming he was on duty with the agency, according to the State Inspector Generals Office.

Together, we will continue to prosecute any public employee who steals from the taxpayers of New York, acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane said. I encourage anyone with information on suspected time theft or other corruption within our state agencies to contact my offices Public Integrity Unit or the Inspector Generals Office.

State Inspector General Lucy Lang added that stealing taxpayer dollars intended for the maintenance of state parks not only undermines the public trust, but risks compromising the investment the state has made in its natural resources.

Blamowski was paid $108,381 last year by the agency, according to SeeThroughNY.net.

The case against Blamowski was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Ryan A. Emmerling of the Special Investigations and Prosecutions Bureau and Chief Gary M. Ertel of the Public Integrity Unit.

The Erie County District Attorneys Office Public Integrity Unit is responsible for investigating and prosecuting cases that involve crimes committed by public employees, elected officials, as well as candidates for public office, law enforcement and other public servants with the aim of helping to restore the publics trust in public officials. To aid in its mission, the District Attorneys Office encourages members of the public to report any suspected violations through the Public Integrity Complaint Form.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh will take oath on Thursday, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, General Waker said the interim government is likely to be sworn in at 8:00 pm on Thursday.

Bangladeshs Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer was appointed as the head of the interim government, 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.

Yunus On His Way To Dhaka

Yunus has left for Dhaka from Paris, the capital of France. According to Dhaka Tribune, he was given strict security at the airport by members of the French Special Forces. Yunus will arrive in Dhaka on an Emirates flight (EK-582) from Dubai at 2 pm on Thursday. His appointment came quickly after student leaders called on the 84-year-old  credited with lifting millions out of poverty  to lead the country.

I fervently appeal

Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes. I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm. Please refrain from all kinds of violence," Yunus said in a statement released on Wednesday, according to bdnews24. I appeal to all students, members of all political parties and non-political people to stay calm. This is our beautiful country with lots of exciting possibilities. We must protect and make it a wonderful country for us and for our future generations," he added.

Khaleda Zias First Message

Bangladeshs former prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia has thanked the people of the country for their struggle to make possible the impossible" and said it is not anger" or revenge" but love and peace" that will rebuild the nation.

In her first public speech since 2018, delivered via video link at the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) rally in Nayapaltan, 79-year-old Zia on Wednesday appealed for calm. A day after her release from house arrest, she thanked people as they fought and prayed for her to be released from imprisonment, The Daily Star newspaper reported.

BNP chairperson and former #Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia issues recorded statement appealing for peace and communal harmony in the country pic.twitter.com/pgMR6eMiW3 Indrajit Kundu |  (@iindrojit) August 7, 2024

Hasinas Delhi Plans

Sheikh Hasina, Bangladeshs ousted prime minister who fled to India following mass protests against her government, is planning to stay in Delhi for a little while," her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy said on Wednesday. The 76-year-old Awami League leader landed at an airbase near Delhi on Monday and later shifted to a safe location under tight security.

During a video interview with German broadcaster Deutsche Welle, Joy was asked about Hasinas reported plans to seek asylum in a third country. These are all rumours. She has not made a decision on that yet. She is going to stay in Delhi for a little while. My sister is with her. So she is not alone," Joy said. Hasinas plan to travel to London has hit a roadblock following the UKs hesitation to provide her refuge.

BSF Stops Bangladeshi Group

The Border Security Force (BSF) on Wednesday stopped a group of about 120-140 Bangladeshi citizens who were attempting to cross over to the Indian side from the international border in West Bengal, officials said. The force has been on a high alert mode since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka early this week.

The incident took place during the day at two locations under the jurisdiction of the North Bengal frontier of the force headquartered in Kadamtala, Darjeeling, the officials said. The BSF field commanders contacted their counterparts in the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the group of 120-140 persons compromising women and children were stopped and asked to return, they said. The situation all along this border is under control, the officials said.

Human rights violated

A top police official in Bangladesh on Wednesday said that the casualties of policemen in the recent violence occurred due to some unprofessional and overly ambitious officials who violated human rights. Addressing a press briefing at the Police Headquarters, newly-appointed Inspector General of Police Md Mainul Islam said some unprofessional officers did not follow the accepted principles of applying force and violated human rights.

It is because of them [unprofessional officials] that this ongoing violence and casualties have occurred," he was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper. Many police officials have been injured, killed, and tortured because of some unprofessional and overly ambitious officials, he said.

Local Businesses, Indo-Bangla Trade

Local businesses demanded immediate restoration of law and order to ensure the safety of their production units amid incidents of attacks on factories over the last two days. They said they opened factories on Wednesday, particularly the garment units, but many cannot run properly fearing unrest and vandalism, the Daily Star newspaper reported.

Despite ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh, trade between India and the neighbouring country through land ports in West Bengal is expected to normalise soon while some movements of goods via one of these facilities were reported on Wednesday, officials said. A meeting between the land port authorities of the two countries is scheduled on Wednesday at South Asias largest land port Petrapole in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district, which is expected to provide clarity on transportation of goods", the officials said.

Stop Anarchy

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has ordered police to take tough measures to stop the anarchy and looting after the fall of the Awami League government in a popular uprising. The president delivered the order after newly appointed Inspector General of Police Md Mainul Islam went to meet him at Bangabhaban on Wednesday, bdnews24 reported. In a statement, Bangabhaban said that President Shahabuddin gave the order to take necessary steps to ensure that every police member can perform their duties with high morale and courage maintaining the chain of command.

How It All Began

Hasina, 76, resigned on Monday as hundreds of thousands of people flooded the streets of Dhaka demanding she stand down. Mondays events were the culmination of more than a month of unrest, which began as protests against a plan for quotas in government jobs but morphed into an anti-Hasina movement. Hundreds of people were killed in the crackdown, but the military turned against Hasina on the weekend and she was forced to flee in a helicopter to neighbouring India. The president dissolved parliament on Tuesday, another demand of the student leaders and the major opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP).

(With agency inputs)

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A Pakistani man with ties to Iran was charged in the United States in connection with conspiracy to carry out the assassination of former President Donald Trump. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigators suspect that along with Trump, many current and former US government officials were the intended targets of the plot, a CNN report said citing an official.

The US Justice Department disclosed the case of murder-for-hire on Tuesday. FBI director Christopher Wray termed the scheme a dangerous murder-for-hire plot straight out of the Iranian playbook, an AP report said. The arrested suspect was identified as 46-year-old Asif Merchant.

As per the justice departments indictment, Asif arrived in the US from Pakistan after spending some time in Iran.

Asif travelled to New York in June to meet a man whom he believed he was hiring to carry out the killings. He also paid a $5,000 advance to two would-be assassins, who were actually undercover law enforcement officials, an AP report said citing federal officers.

He was arrested last month as he was planning to leave the US. Before leaving, he told the would-be assassins that he would provide further instructions, including the names of the targets, in August and September after he returned to Pakistan.

While the indictment does not mention Donald Trumps name, CBS cited sources confirming that the Republican nominee was one of the intended targets.

A foreign-directed plot to kill a public official, or any US citizen, is a threat to our national security and will be met with the full might and resources of the FBI, Christopher Wray was quoted as saying by the BBC in its report.

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Russia has accused Ukrainian troops of launching a significant incursion into its Kursk region, marking the first such attack from Ukraine and escalating tensions in a previously quieter part of the conflict zone.

Ukrainian forces crossed the border into the western Kursk region on Tuesday, CNN reported, citing Russian officials. The Russian Defence Ministry claimed that the incursion involved a massive attack with troops, tanks, and armoured vehicles. They alleged that Ukrainian forces attempted to breach Russian defenses near the Kursk region, situated just north of Ukraines Sumy region.

Large-scale provocation

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the alleged incursion as a large-scale provocation. He accused Kyiv of indiscriminate shooting at civilian buildings, including residential areas and ambulances. Ukrainian authorities have yet to comment on these allegations.

The extent of the attack remains unclear. It is uncertain whether Ukrainian troops captured any settlements or inflicted damage on strategic targets. Reports from Russian military bloggers and officials suggest that the town of Sudzha, located about 10 kilometers from the border, experienced significant destruction.

Geolocated videos indicate damage from shelling and show Ukrainian forces approaching the town, although it is not confirmed whether they have gained control. According to CNN, Russian sources claim that about 300 Ukrainian troops, supported by tanks and armored vehicles, attacked Russian positions near the villages of Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya.

Initially, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the attack was repelled. However, this statement was later revised to say that Ukrainian forces were being inflicted with fire damage. Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov, later informed President Putin that the Ukrainian advance into Russian territory had been halted.

In response to the fighting, several thousand people have been evacuated from the Kursk region, according to local officials. The reason behind the reported attack is unclear. It could be an attempt by Ukrainian forces to divert Russian resources from other fronts, particularly as Moscows offensive continues in eastern Ukraine. The incursion could also serve to boost Ukrainian morale amid a challenging period on the battlefield.

A Russian military blogger, Rybar, reported that Ukrainian forces had taken control of a gas transit station near the border. This station is reportedly the only one through which gas flows from Russia to Ukraine and then to Europe. This claim has not been independently verified. If confirmed, this incursion would represent a major escalation in the conflict.

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A Taiwanese man has been granted a divorce after his wife demanded payment for sex and conversations, according to local reports. The man, identified only as Hao, filed for divorce after his wife, known as Xuan, began charging him a fee for intimacy and communication.

The couple, who married in 2014 and have two children, faced escalating issues in their relationship over the years, according to South China Morning Post (SCMP). Hao first sought a divorce in 2021 when Xuan began charging him USD 15 (approximately Rs 1,200) each time he wanted to have sex or even speak with her. According to SCMP, he withdrew the lawsuit after Xuan promised to work on their marriage.

At that time, Hao even transferred property ownership to her name. However, the couples relationship continued to deteriorate. Xuans refusal to have sex and her emotional abuse led Hao to refile for divorce this year. By then, the couple had not spoken directly for two years and communicated only through a messaging app. Despite attempts at marriage counseling, their issues persisted.

A court in Taiwan recently granted Haos divorce, saying that the relationship was cold and difficult to fix. Xuan, who opposed the separation, appealed the decision to a higher court, but her appeal was denied. This case highlights a troubling trend in Taiwan, where similar cases have been reported.

Taiwan has one of the highest divorce rates in Asia, with a reported rate of 0.128% last year. In one instance from 2014, a wife charged her husband USD 60 for sex and set fees for conversations and meals, citing his lack of financial contribution. This led the couples children to also demand payment from their father for communication.

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Former US President Donald Trump said he will do a major interview with Tesla founder and CEO Elon Musk on August 12. However, Musk is yet to confirm the same.

Taking social media site Truth, the 77-year-old presumptive Republican presidential nominee stated, On Monday night, Ill be doing a major interview with Elon Muskdetails to follow!"

Its worth noting that Trump was banned from Twitter in January 2021 during the final days of his presidency, but his X account was reinstated after Musk acquired the platform.

Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have not yet debated in the US Presidential election race. On Friday, Trump announced that he has agreed to a debate with his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, on Fox News, scheduled for September 4.

I have agreed with FoxNews to debate Kamala Harris on Wednesday, September 4th," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

However, on Saturday, Harriss campaign dismissed Donald Trumps announcement that he was willing to debate her on the conservative Fox News network after he declined to participate in a previously scheduled debate on ABC.

Meanwhile, a new poll confirmed Sunday that Kamala Harris has drawn level with Donald Trump, transforming a White House race that the Republican had been increasingly confident he was going to win.

As the November 5 election rapidly approaches, Harris has erased the growing lead that Trump was building before President Joe Biden dropped his reelection bid.

According to the CBS News/YouGov poll released Sunday, Harris has a one percent advantage on Trump nationwide  compared to Trumps previous five point edge on Biden.

In the swing states that decide the Electoral College contest in US elections, Harris and Trump  who shocked the world with his 2016 presidential victory but was beaten by Biden in 2020  are equal.

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World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday called an emergency meeting of international experts amidst growing worries over the mpox virus.

With mpox spreading outside of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tedros said the WHO emergency committee would meet as soon as possible to advise him on whether the outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern.

A public health emergency of international concern is the highest alarm the WHO can sound and allows Tedros to trigger emergency responses under the International Health Regulations.

Formerly known as monkeypox, mpox is an infectious disease caused by a virus transmitted to humans by infected animals that can also be passed from human to human through close physical contact.

It was first discovered in humans in 1970 in DR Congo, causing fever, muscular aches and large boil-like skin lesions.

In May 2022, mpox infections surged worldwide, mostly affecting gay and bisexual men, due to the Clade IIb subclade.

The outbreak led the WHO to declare an international public health emergency (PHEIC), which lasted from July 2022 to May 2023. That outbreak has now largely subsided.

Since September 2023, a different strain of mpox, the Clade Ib subclade, has been surging in DR Congo.

On July 11, Tedros said more than 11,000 cases and 445 deaths had been reported in the giant African state this year, with children the most affected. The disease has since spread to neighbouring countries.

A PHEIC has only been declared seven times since 2009: over H1N1 swine flu, poliovirus, Ebola, Zika virus, Ebola again, Covid-19 and mpox.

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Tim Walz made his first official appearance as the running mate of Vice President Kamala Harris at Tuesday night's Philadelphia rally, and he wasted no time going on the attack, the Hill reports. "I just have to say it. You know it. You feel it. These guys are creepy and, yes, just weird as hell. That's what you see," the Minnesota governor said of Donald Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance. (It's Walz who is believed to have originated the use of "weird" as the current hot insult for the Trump-Vance ticket.) Walz also managed to get in a particularly sneaky dig at Vance, the Daily Beast reports.
Vladimir Putin is calling it a "major provocation." NBC News refers to it as an "unprecedented cross-border incursion." Russia on Tuesday said as many as 300 Ukrainian troops had attacked the Kursk region in southern Russia with support from tanks and armored vehicles. The details remain somewhat hazy, Ukraine's leaders have not confirmed the attack, and the AP reports open-source monitors have not yet verified the claims. The Guardian, however, reports it got confirmation from a junior official that an attack was underway. More:

On the ground: Things are murky, with Russia's Defense Ministry originally stating the "Ukrainian sabotage group retreated to its territory," per the Guardian. But Russian military bloggers have suggested the Ukrainian troops were not pushed out but rather made it up to 9 miles deep into the territory, and the New York Times reports the Ministry confirmed fighting was continuing on Wednesday.
China, one of the largest sources of chemicals used to produce fentanyl, will impose new restrictions on the substances, in a move signaling the Biden administration's pressure campaign has paid off. The administration has for years been pushing Beijing to impose stricter oversight over the production and sale of 4-AP, 1-boc-4-AP, and norfentanyl, which were blacklisted by the UN's Commission on Narcotic Drugs in March 2022. But China delayed, "exerting a point of leverage over the US as bilateral relations soured," per the Wall Street Journal .

Congressional investigators argue China has fueled the fentanyl crisis in the US by subsidizing the manufacture of the chemicals and offering tax rebates to companies that sell them abroad. While the US has urged China to prosecute chemical producers, Beijing has countered that the chemicals aren't restricted at home. Beginning Sept. 1, however, China will add controls and regulation to the production of 4-AP, 1-boc-4-AP, and norfentanyl. Producers will be required to obtain a license and report the type and quantity of chemicals produced, as well as major sales, within 30 days, per the South China Morning Post.

The White House says it's "a valuable step forward," per Reuters. Experts say the move is unlikely to majorly disrupt fentanyl supply chains, in part because unregulated chemical alternatives are always appearing, but it does signal China is willing to budge on an issue important to the US, where fentanyl overdoses are the leading cause of death for individuals ages 18 to 45. Moving forward, "experts expect China will use the issue of fentanyl to seek concessions from the US, whether in the form of lower tariffs, looser rules on technology sales to China, or other issues on Beijing's wish list," the Journal reports. (More China stories.)
The US, British, and French ambassadors to Japan will skip a ceremony to mark the 79th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki over what is perceived as a slight against Israel. Nagasaki's mayor invited dignitaries from more than 150 countries and territories to the annual peace ceremony, to take place Friday, but excluded Israel. The move was in keeping with a 2022 decision to exclude Russia and Belarus over the invasion of Ukraine. But US ambassador Rahm Emanuel says it's wrong to equate Israel's war against Hamas with the aforementioned invasion. "Israel's self-defense is not morally equivalent," he says, per the New York Times .

Israel's ambassador to Japan, Gilad Cohen, says there can be "no comparison" since Israel was "brutally attacked by terrorist organizations." Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki said the decision, made last week, wasn't based on politics "but an intention to conduct the ceremony ... in a peaceful and solemn manner." He cited security risks and potential protests. But Emanuel says that's not the whole truth. Suzuki had written to the Israeli Embassy in June, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, per the Times. The following month, he suggested Israel might be left out of the ceremony, leading representatives from the US, Canada, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union, to express their concern.

Emanuel, now slated to attend a ceremony in Tokyo on Friday, says the peaceful message of Nagasaki's ceremony "will be distracted and deflected" as a result of Israel's exclusion. Excluding Israel "creates an unfortunate and misleading equivalency with Russia and Belarus," adds the British embassy, which confirmed ambassador Julia Longbottom would also skip the ceremony, per AFP. Meanwhile, the French embassy says it will send only its second-in-command to Nagasaki following the "regrettable and questionable" decision to exclude Cohen. The Israeli ambassador did attend a commemoration ceremony in Hiroshima on Tuesday, the Times reports. (More Japan stories.)
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, reports the AP . Police considered her death a suicide because her apartment door was locked from the inside and her boyfriendwho said he found her after breaking down the doorhad 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. Greenberg's 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 Tuesday's 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 decedent's death certificate where that finding constitutes a bar or material impediment to recovery of victim's compensation, restitution or for wrongful death, as well as private criminal complaints."

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Joseph Podraza, the lawyer for Greenberg's parents, told the Philadelphia Inquirer that his clients were "elated" by the Supreme Court's 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 can't be challenged." (More suicide stories.)
Turkey on Wednesday filed a request with a UN court to join South Africa's lawsuit accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, the foreign minister said. Turkey's ambassador to the Netherlands, accompanied by a group of Turkish legislators, submitted a declaration of intervention to the International Court of Justice in The Hague. With the development, Turkey, one of the fiercest critics of Israel's actions in Gaza, becomes the latest nation seeking to participate in the case. Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua, and Libya have also asked to join the case, as have Palestinian officials. The court's decision on their requests is still pending, reports the AP .

"Emboldened by the impunity for its crimes, Israel is killing more and more innocent Palestinians every day," Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan wrote on X. "The international community must do its part to stop the genocide; it must put the necessary pressure on Israel and its supporters," he added. "Turkey will make every effort to do so." Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused Israel of genocide, called for it to be punished in international courts, and criticized Western nations for backing Israel. In May, Turkey suspended trade with Israel, citing its assault on Gaza. In contrast to Western nations that have designated Hamas a terrorist organization, Erdogan has commended the group, calling it a liberation movement.

South Africa brought a case to the International Court of Justice late last year, accusing Israel of violating the genocide convention in Gaza. If admitted to the case, the countries who joined would be able to make written submissions and speak at public hearings. Preliminary hearings have already been held in the genocide case against Israel, but the court is expected to take years to reach a decision.

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"No country in the world is above international law," Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Oncu Keceli said on X earlier. "The case at the International Court of Justice is extremely important in terms of ensuring that the crimes committed by Israel do not go unpunished." Keceli also called for the immediate implementations of precautionary measures ordered by the court, including a halt to the military offensive and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. (More Israel-Hamas war stories.)
UK Riots: A Nation in Turmoil

The United Kingdom is reeling from a wave of violent riots that have swept across the nation, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake. The unrest, which began in the coastal town of Southport, has spread to over a dozen towns and cities, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

What sparked the riots?

The riots were sparked by a tragic event: the stabbing of three young girls in Southport on July 29. However, it was the spread of misinformation on social media about the suspect's identity that fueled the flames of violence. Far-right groups seized on the opportunity to incite anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant sentiment, despite the fact that the suspect was a British-born teenager with no connections to the Muslim community or immigration.

Where are the riots happening?

The riots have spread across various locations in the UK, including:

Aldershot

Belfast

Blackburn

Blackpool

Bristol

Cardiff

Hartlepool

High Wycombe

Leeds

Leicester

London

Middlesbrough

Nottingham

Portsmouth

Rotherham

Stoke-on-Trent

Sunderland

Tamworth

Weymouth

These locations have experienced violent clashes, vandalism, and attacks on individuals, businesses, and public areas.

Who is behind the riots?

Authorities have indicated that many of the rioters are affiliated with far-right groups, including the English Defence League and Patriotic Alternative. Prominent figures such as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon (also known as Tommy Robinson) and Andrew Tate have been actively inciting hostility online.

What is the impact?

The riots have resulted in over 400 arrests, with more than 100 individuals already charged. The violence has also left numerous police officers injured, and several racially motivated attacks have been reported.

Law enforcement officials are warning that those responsible for violence and abuse will face consequences, while ethnic minority and migrant communities are growing increasingly apprehensive. The UK government has condemned the violence, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed to take swift action to address the situation.
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TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

The Egyptian military delegation participating in the Joint Bahraini-Egyptian Military Cooperation Committee meeting, led by Major General Adel Sobhi Mohammed Al Shafei, Assistant Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Egypt, visited the Military Museum of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF).

Major-General Mohammed Qatami Al Kubaisi, Director of Media and Moral Guidance, accompanied the delegation.

The delegation was briefed on the various halls of the museum that include a variety of historical collectables, military paintings, and models that constitute a documentary archive of Bahraini military history in the modern and contemporary era.
MONTREAL, Aug. 7, 2024 /CNW/ - Over the past 40 years, food insecurity has become one of the leading health and social issues across North America. A crucial topic that has become close to the heart of award-winning winemaker and philanthropist Joel Gott.

Along with his team at Joel Gott Wines, he launched Gott for Good, a philanthropic program dedicated to facilitating access to food through shelters, soup kitchens and school lunch programs. Over the past six years, the winery's involvement has never ceased. This year is no exception.

SUPPORT ACROSS THE COUNTRY

GOTT FOR GOOD LOGO (CNW Group/Joel Gott)

Throughout 2024, Gott for Good will be offering support across Canada to help countless families with limited access to food.

This past April, the team provided on-site support alongside Moisson Montreal and delivered a donation to the Quebec Food Bank.

In July, the foundation will set off West for an activation in British-Columbia and a donation to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.

And finally in October, they will be contributing in person in Ontario all the while providing financial aid to Feed Ontario.

"The food situation for many families in Canada is dire and we want to do everything we can to help change that. Should it be through on-site help alongside local food banks or donations, every little bit helps. We are committed to keep working to make sure food insecurity affects fewer Canadians every day." - Joel Gott

In 2023, over 2.5 million meals were successfully provided to families in need across North America. Now in its sixth year, the Gott for Good initiative has been met with renewed enthusiasm by organizations and partners alike.

Find out more about Gott for Good by visiting gottwines.com/gott-for-good/ and enquire with your local food bank to find out how you can support the fight against food insecurity.

ABOUT JOEL GOTT WINES

Since its founding by Joel and Sarah Gott in 1996 in St. Helena, California, Joel Gott Wines has selected the best fruit from growing regions in California, Oregon and Washington  each blended to create more balanced, clean, complex and elegant wines. More than twenty years later, Joel Gott Wines has maintained a legacy of giving customers expressive and food-friendly wines at great prices by partnering with vintners and vineyards with whom the Gott family has built relationships for generations. The Joel Gott Wines portfolio features five core California wines: 815 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Oregon Pinot Gris. In addition to these core wines, Joel Gott Wines produces a wide range of varietals that are produced from fruit from California and the Pacific Northwest. For more information visit www.gottwines.com .

SOURCE Joel Gott
The Supreme Court has recently come under scrutiny (and rightly so, I submit) due to some serious "ethical" situations involving both Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito. I predict that the Supreme Court - and specifically Chief Justice John Roberts - might have to undergo or submit to some serious challenges regarding the results from the 2024 presidential election.

Let's say that Donald J. Trump wins the upcoming election this November. He has publicly stated that on day one of his presidency, he will be a "dictator!" This has no precedent in and is not a position under our Constitution or our rule of law. He has also stated a number of times that he wants to "suspend" the Constitution. This also has no precedent or status under our Constitution or our rule of law!

Assuming we are still a Constitutional Democracy on January 20, 2025 - the Chief Justice will administer the Presidential Oath of Office to Donald J. Trump - who must promise to "protect, honor and defend the Constitution of the United States. Trump's past statements and promise of future criminality (should he and his gang of thugs return to power) should automatically render him "unfit" to serve as our next president.

John Roberts often talks about his "legacy after he retires as Chief Justice. He could cement his legacy as one of our most honest and trustworthy Chief Justices if he would (and should) refuse to administer the oath of office to a convicted felon, a predator, a fraudster and a cheater who broke the rules (laws) many times for one thing: "his own gain!"

Larry Gustina

Buffalo
Nonprofit Soles4Souls launches their first North American campaign to open doors of opportunity for millions of people in need, through donated shoes and apparel.

TORONTO, Aug. 7, 2024 /CNW/ - Soles4Souls, a global nonprofit, is revolutionizing the way we address poverty and environmental sustainability through its innovative shoe and apparel donation. Inspired by the "No shirt, No shoes, No service" sign, Soles4Souls is turning this concept on its head to showcase the transformative power of providing footwear and clothing to those in need  turning "No" into "Yes" for children in vulnerable communities.

Phase 1 of the national campaign launches today using a mix of local awareness tactics that spans Meta, OOH, social, and digital. (CNW Group/FUSE Create) Inspired by the iconic "no shirt, no shoes" signage, Soles4Souls is turning this concept on its head to showcase the transformative power of providing footwear and clothing to those in need. In other words, turning No into Yes for children in vulnerable communities. (CNW Group/FUSE Create)

In a world where access to basic necessities like shoes and clothing can determine one's future, Soles4Souls is stepping up to make a difference. In fact, 97% of Soles4Souls school partners said they see positive results in school attendance with new shoes.

"We know a new pair of shoes can have a profound impact on a child's life, especially as they prepare to return to school," says Buddy Teaster, CEO and President of Soles4Souls. "It may seem simple, but the power of a pair of shoes is a step towards a brighter future for someone in need."

The integrated campaign, a first for the organization and developed by creative agency FUSE Create, brings a full-funnel approach and looks to build awareness and donations through multiple audiences across Meta, OOH, social, digital, and local awareness tactics, including a shoe-drive during 'OssFest' on Toronto, Canada's popular Ossington strip.

"What was initially just an ask, has become a passion for our agency," says Steve Miller, ECD at FUSE Create. "Helping these kids gain the confidence they need through adequate shoes and clothing, and helping Soles4Souls continue their mission, is now our mission."

Phase 2 launches later this year showing the literal and figurative distance a pair of shoes can go. From donation to delivery, the spot will illustrate how a simple pair of shoes impacts entrepreneurs, their community, and our planet.

For more information and to make a difference, visit soles4souls.org.

About Soles4Souls

Soles4Souls turns shoes and clothing into educational and economic opportunities through four core programs: 4Opportunity, 4Relief, 4EveryKid and 4ThePlanet. Since 2006, more than 94 million pairs of shoes and articles of clothing have helped create opportunities for people across 137 countries.

SOURCE FUSE Create

For interviews, please contact Vanessa Francone ([email protected])
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August 7, 2024 Tolentino: Senate probe on M/T Terranova oil spill set on August 13 "The Senate inquiry on the massive oil spill caused by the ill-fated M/T Terranova will push through on August 13." This was announced by Senate Majority Floor Leader Francis 'Tol' Tolentino on Wednesday morning, August 7. To recall, it was the senator who filed last week Senate Resolution No. (SRN) 1084, which directs the Senate Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change to probe the cause of the oil spill that occured on July 27. Further, Tolentino's resolution will seek updates on how the sea disaster has severely affected the livelihoods of 46,000 fisherfolk in Bataan, Cavite, Metro Manila, and nearby areas, as well as marine biodiversity and food security. "We need to set up stricter mechanisms to prevent such incidents, and to improve our capability to immediately respond to contain, clean up, and mitigate the impact of this toxic substance on the fishing sector and the environment," stressed the senator, citing similar occurrences in Pola, Oriental Mindoro in 2023, and the island-province of Guimaras in 2006. Currently, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is is being assisted by the United States Coast Guard and the Washington-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to help contain the oil spill, according to Tolentino, who also chairs the Senate Special Committee on PH Maritime & Admiralty Zones. In his radio program, 'Usapang Tol,' Tolentino was informed by Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary Arnel De Mesa that the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has started to extend fuel subsidies to affected fisherfolk. In response, Tolentino asked the DA to work with other agencies to assist another affected sector - namely, fish vendors who are also reeling from lower catch resulting from the oil spill and the subsequent fishing bans. "We must not forget the fish vendors. The government must also reach out to them, because we have interviewed sellers in public markets who said that many stalls selling fish have now been closed," the senator told De Mesa "We will be coordinating with the DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) and DTI (Department of Trade Industry) to assist fish vendors, because it is true that they cannot sell anything if there is no fish," De Mesa assured Tolentino.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Medical Laboratory and Clinical Scientists Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe is taking stern action against laboratory professionals who are collaborating with health workers in public institutions to coerce patients into seeking services from specific private sector laboratories. This occurs despite government-run institutions providing similar services at much lower costs.Doctors and nurses often recommend specific laboratories for blood, urine, or stool sample tests and provide contact numbers for sample collection. These laboratories have bikers on standby at public health institutions to collect samples and return results to patients' bedsides. While this might seem convenient, the council states that such practices are exacerbating the financial burden on patients, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.At a Health Professions Authority familiarisation meeting, the council's registrar, Ms. Agnes Chigora, highlighted that this unethical conduct compromises healthcare affordability and accessibility. She urged the public to report such malpractices and warned that involved medical practitioners could face disciplinary action. Ms. Chigora emphasized that medical practitioners' primary duty is to provide quality care to patients, including making informed decisions about laboratory services that benefit patients, not their own financial gain.This stance aligns with the government's efforts to improve public healthcare affordability. The Ministry of Health and Child Care, through the Biomedical Research and Training Institution and supported by the Global Fund and United Nations Development Programme, is implementing the Integrated Specimen Transportation system to enhance disease diagnosis, patient management, and health outcomes in public health facilities. However, urban health workers sometimes claim their labs lack the capacity to conduct certain tests, pushing patients towards private labs.Ms. Chigora noted that some implicated labs provide substandard services. To address this, the council, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, will carry out a certification exercise for all laboratories to ensure compliance with required standards. Labs scoring below 55 percent will be classified as level zero and lose their licenses, while those at level 1 will have time to correct identified non-conformities. This certification programme targets all laboratories in both the public and private sectors.Malpractices have also been reported in pharmacies, where health workers sometimes direct clients. The Pharmacists Council of Zimbabwe registrar, Mr. Alois Karonga, stated that the council has addressed various malpractices, including dispensing prescription medicines without prescriptions, selling expired and unregistered medicines, and operating pharmacies without registered pharmacists, through disciplinary inquiries.
News / National

by Staff reporter

More than 100 beneficiaries of the Government-funded Hlalani Kuhle housing project in Bulawayo's Cowdray Park suburb risk losing their properties due to the lack of proper council documentation.Bulawayo City Council (BCC) town clerk, Mr. Christopher Dube, revealed that 105 residential stands under the project lack council documentation and urged owners to visit the Cowdray Park Housing Office to regularize their properties by 4 September. Failure to comply will result in the repossession of these properties.Mr. Dube emphasized the need for beneficiaries to sort out their paperwork according to council housing policy. The requirements include being listed in the handover files from April 2012, possessing an allocation letter from the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities, an offer letter from the council, and an affidavit confirming any developments on the stands. Additionally, certified copies of national identity documents, proof of land payment, and active housing waiting list forms are necessary for the regularization process.The ultimatum excludes illegal developments, which will be dealt with according to council by-laws. Mr. Dube urged residents to secure their stands according to survey pegs, warning that failure to comply will lead to the stands being repossessed and re-allocated to other deserving beneficiaries on the council's housing waiting list.Residents like Mr. Sipho Ncube support the council's directive, recognizing the importance of having property documents in order to secure their families' futures. Another resident praised the council's initiative to streamline the regularization process, noting that it promotes transparency, accountability, and sustainable urban development.The Hlalani Kuhle housing project has faced challenges, with more than US$30 million needed to complete the servicing of Cowdray Park's 15,000 stands. The suburb lacks proper roads, sewer, and water reticulation systems. Initially, beneficiaries agreed to pay US$50 monthly towards servicing the area, but many struggled to meet this payment, leading to a reduction to US$15. Records indicate that about 75 percent of beneficiaries failed to pay the original amount.The council has engaged donors and development partners to assist with resources to complete the servicing of the new suburb. The Australian government has contributed water and sewer pipes to the project.
The Fugees tour is no longer happening.

At least, not in the United States. The latest round of shows from Lauryn Hill and the Fugees was canceled just three days before the start of their 2024 U.S. tour dates.

Neither Hill nor Pras nor Wyclef Jean commented on the cancellation of the tour dates Tuesday night as ticketholders were notified they would be issued refunds.

Later, on Wednesday, Hill issued a statement on Instagram saying the shows were canceled due to low ticket sales. She blamed media coverage of previous cancellations for the weak sales.

With difficulty the decision was made to pull down our upcoming North American tour dates, she said.

Last year, I faced an injury that necessitated the rescheduling of some of my shows, Hill, 49, continued. Regrettably, some media outlets penchant for sensationalism and clickbait headlines have seemingly created a narrative that has affected ticket sales for the North American portion of the tour. The trust and faith I have in my intentions and my commitment to my art seem to have been overshadowed by this unfortunate portrayal.

The 18 shows, billed as a reunion tour and part of Hills 25th anniversary Miseducation of Lauryn Hill tour, were to have started with a concert Friday in Tampa, Florida. Hills son YG Marley (Praise Jah in the Moonlight), 22, was slated to perform on the tour.

Among the canceled shows for The Celebration Continues: The Miseducation Anniversary Tour 2024:

A concert at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel Sept. 21, which was to be the last date on the U.S. leg of the tour.

Tour dates for Lauryn Hill and the Fugees in the United Kingdom and Europe scheduled for October and November have not been canceled and are still on sale.

The audiences in the UK and Europe not only havent seen the Miseducation Anniversary performance yet, they also havent seen the Fugees perform together in over 25 years! Hill said in her Instagram post. Performing for my fans, is a profound exchange of energy and emotion that excites me every time. Every show is a piece of my expression and testament to our connection and shared love for music. I can assure you that no one is more disappointed about not being able to perform than I am.

Know that I am not only grateful for those who appreciate and support my art, but that I FIGHT and push through all kinds of resistance to put together experiences that mean something for all of us, Hill continued. I love being able to bring these performances to you!I appreciate your understanding. Were looking forward to performing at the shows in the UK and Europe in October  and for our fans in North America, when these unforeseen circumstances are resolved, well be back in full force.

The Fugees formed in 1990 in South Orange and released their Grammy-winning No. 1 album The Score in 1996.

Hill reunited onstage with Pras and Jean at the Prudential Center in October 2023.

The abrupt cancelation follows others. In November, Hill and the Fugees canceled shows because Hill was suffering from vocal strain.

Before that, a Fugees reunion tour, announced in 2021 for the 25th anniversary of The Score, had been postponed and then canceled due to COVID-19.

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Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com and followed at @AmyKup.
A Morris County, New Jersey, property owner accused of illegally chopping down 363 trees on land adjacent to the Butler Reservoir, which supplies water to three towns, is facing a hearing next month.

The tree removal happened between July and October 2022, according to a summons issued in Kinnelon Municipal Court last year to Vincenzo Polise, the owner of MVM Realty One LLC.

Polises attorney, Alissa Hascup, couldnt be reached by NJ Advance Media for comment.

The municipal citation was filed by John Linson, Kinnelons forester. The hearing is scheduled for Sept. 24, a spokesperson for New Jerseys Administrative Office of the Courts told NJ Advance Media.

The citation says the trees were cut down on the residential property on Harrison Road. Views of the reservoir are secluded by deep woods.

Property records show Polise acquired the seven-acre property on Harrison Road in 2019.

The citation does not say why the trees were cut down.

The home is situated off a hilly street with several houses and roads that lead to a main part of town and Route 23.

The reservoir is managed by Butler, the borough neighboring Kinnelon. It supplies water to about 8,000 people in both boroughs and the High Crest Lake section of West Milford, according to the Butlers municipal website.

The destroyed trees were not close to the water and have not affected the reservoir, Butler Borough Administration James Lampmann said in an email to NJ Advance Media.

Our concern was the trees were removed from the hillside behind our water storage tanks, and we did not want the hillside to wash out and cause damage to our water tanks, Lampmann said.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued a notice of violation to Polise in April after inspecting the area. State officials contend the tree removal violated the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act, which requires permits for such work.

Vincent Grassi, an state DEP spokesperson, said the agency met with a professional consultant retained by Polise on July 25.

The department expects that the property owner will submit a restoration plan for department approval, Grassi said.

Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com.
A passenger ticketed to fly to France was arrested at Newark Liberty on Tuesday after security found a gun in his carry-on bag, authorities said.

The Bedford, New York man was taken into custody by Port Authority police after Transportation Security Administration detected the handgun as it passed through an X-ray machine in Terminal B, the federal agency said.
As Democratic presidential nominee and Vice President Kamala Harris introduced her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, at a fiery campaign rally in a packed arena in Philadelphia on Tuesday, former president Donald Trump was melting down on Truth Social.

The GOPs nominee posted arguably his craziest social media rant  a wacked-out fantasy that President Joe Biden would change his mind about stepping out of the race and demand the nomination back.

The what-was-that post left people wondering what was wrong with Trump:

What are the chances that Crooked Joe Biden, the WORST president in the history of the US, whose presidency was unconstitutionally STOLEN from him by Kamabla, Barack 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. He feels that he made a historically tragic mistake by handing over the US presidency, a COUP, to the people in the world he most hates. And he wants it back NOW!!!

Michael Steele, former Republican National Chairman, tweeted: Umm, GOP, is DonaldTrump ok? Perhaps, the campaign has become too much for him  what with now having to run against VP Kamala Harris, watching his VP choice JD Vance say something stupid  again; or popular Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz joining the Harris campaign.

I know it can be a lot. Maybe a nap? Or, you know, a commonly used form of psychotherapy is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Trumps been saying he wants to do something cognitive. The goal of CBT is to manage intense stress and anxiety by changing the way one thinks, feels and behaves. Failing that, how about CBD?

George Conway, an attorney who once worked for Republicans and former husband of Trump ex-spokesperson Kellyanne Conway, tweeted a question to Trumps campaign staff and his children: Are you guys gonna get this guy the help he so obviously needs, or are you all just there to cash his checks?

Conway recently launched a new political action committee, the Anti-Psychopath PAC, which he says will highlight the existential threat Donald Trump poses to democracy and remind voters of the former presidents mental unfitness for office.

Rick Wilson, founder of the Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump political organization, tried to explain the Trump post: I promise you, Trump is watching this rally and throwing sh*t against the wall, absolutely losing his [bleeping] mind, Wilson tweeted. He hates how good shes getting. He hates that the audience that looks like America instead of a convention of inbred catalytic-converter thieves.

Reaction to Trumps cringy post was swift and widespread, especially among Democrats: Was Kamabla a typo? A new nickname? A racist play?

These are the ravings of a madman, tweeted Democratic political strategist Simon Rosenberg. We are here now everyone. Trump is gone. Its a serious matter and we cannot look away anymore. After his disastrous week last week, where he repeatedly embarrassed himself, his campaign has taken him off the trail. His campaign knows.

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SAINT-DENIS, France  If you cant watch the final of the womens 400-meter hurdles here at Stade de France in the Paris suburbs, the next best spot might be the Lieve Vrouwekerkhof in Amersfoort, a small town in the Netherlands.

The entire, uh, Vrouwekerkhof will be shut down so residents can gather and watch an athlete described in the Dutch media this week as weergaloos, spectaculair, sensationeel. Or, to borrow the words (and Im pretty sure theyre words) of one breathless Amersfoort resident:

Als zij loopt, rennen wij allemaal naar de televisie!

If you really need a translation, folks in Femke Bols hometown are running to the television to see the unparalleled, spectacular, sensational athlete who already has emerged as one of the breakout stars at the Paris Olympics. She achieved that status with her performance in the mixed 4x400 relay on the first night of the track competition, carrying the Netherlands to a gold medal.

She also did it with the all-important viral moment. You might not have seen her carry the baton through the driving rain to steal first place from her American rivals with a brilliant anchor leg, but if youre on TikTok, you probably saw her post-race interview. Or heard it.

It was amazing. It was such a strong race. All running so fast. I knew I had to go out fast, Bol told BBC, sounding like she had inhaled the contents of 50 helium balloons. She sounds like Mickey Mouse but runs like Speedy Gonzales.

Add it up, and Bol has managed to get more international attention so far in Paris than the athlete she will have to beat to win gold in the 400-meter hurdles. And you know the which athlete. From Central Jersey? Has a lot of TV commercials? Holds the world record?

Remember her?

It would be a stretch to say that Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has been overshadowed, of course, especially since most Americans get their Olympic fix via NBCs coverage. But it is abundantly clear that track fans around the world wont just be tuning into Thursdays 3:22 p.m. ET final just to see if the Dunellen native can repeat as Olympic champ.

Theyll be watching to see if the 24-year-old Bol, the second fastest woman ever in this event, can pull off the upset.

I have no idea what (to expect). I know Im just going to give it my all, Bol told a group of reporters in Dutch when asked about the matchup with McLaughlin, according to a Google translation of the audio. I really need to focus on myself and use the adrenaline of going against her.

(Sportswriting aside: Nothing quite says covering the Olympics like nodding your head knowingly during an interview in a language you dont understand!)

Bol is the defending world champion, claiming gold in Budapest last year when McLaughlin sat out with a knee injury, and her times have steadily improved since then. Unlike McLaughlin-Levrone, who competes so infrequently in her best event, Bol is a fixture on the European circuit. Theyve only faced each other twice, and the Jersey star is 2-0 in those matchups.

Based on the number of orange-clad fans in Stade de France to see both hurdlers cruise through the semifinals with the top two times on Tuesday night, Bol might win a popularity contest. That shouldnt be surprising given that Amsterdam is an easy train ride to Paris, and that Bol is the countrys Simone Biles, Katie Ledecky and Noah Lyles rolled into one.

You have to remember, our country is not like the USA where you have dozens of great athletes, said Thijs Bakker, an orange-clad fan who came to Paris to root on Dutch athletes. Femke has a chance to become our greatest.

In some ways, McLaughlin-Levrone needs someone like Bol. Her personal coach, Bob Kersee, said he teaches the former Union Catholic star and all of his athletes to focus on themselves and not anyone else on the track. But Kersee is a sports fan, too, and he understands that people are tuning in to be entertained.

A rivalry is always a good thing  as long as its kept in perspective  because it can bring out the best of everyone, Kersee said. How many times have we watched Super Bowls that were were a blowout? Nobody wants to see that.

In fairness, sometimes a lopsided outcome is cool, like when swimmer Katie Ledecky does her best Secretariat-at-the-Belmont impersonation in the 1500 meters. But Femke v. Sydney has emerged as the main event of these Olympics, a rare opportunity to see two athletes at the peak of their powers go head to head for the gold medal.

If McLaughlin is going to become just the fifth U.S. track and field athlete to win the same event in back-to-back Olympics, shes going to have to beat the squeaky-voiced rival with a rabid following in her home country. The folks in Amersfoort had the right adjectives for this moment.

Weergaloos, spectaculair, sensationeel.

MORE N.J. OLYMPICS:

How Paris healed a 44-year-old wound for a N.J. judo family

Ive found the Jerseyiest place at the Paris Olympics

Rutgers power couple finds joy in shared Olympic dream

Two N.J. swimmers turned a Somerset County pool into an Olympic hotbed

How a real-life Jersey Jedi plans to fence his way to a gold medal

The unsinkable Molly Reckford is an inspiration for all middling athletes

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.

Steve Politi may be reached at spoliti@njadvancemedia.com.
The planet is burning, and lawmakers in a half-dozen states believe that its time for those responsible for turning up the heat to pay up.

New Jersey is one of them. Led by Sen. John McKeon (D-Essex), our Legislature will debate a bill in the next term that would make fossil fuel companies help pay for damages related to climate change.

It would be a paradigm shift in environmental liability  much like our existing Superfund law, which is based on the Polluter Pays Principle  and it would establish a formula to track how much the polluter should pay for cleanup, mitigation, and the strengthening of our infrastructure.

Vermont got the movement started with a Climate Superfund Act that went into effect July 1. That law, which is being challenged in court, imposes strict liability on extractors and refiners that produced 1 billion metric tons or more of greenhouse gas emissions from 1995 to 2024.

McKeons argument is similar: Storms continue to slam our state, hurricanes and floods are now common, and sea levels are rising. And since all that is related to climate change, Big Oil should pitch in. The author of New Yorks law  the venerable state senator Liz Krueger  sees it like this: This isnt about crime and punishment, she said. Its about cause and effect.

Whether these bills will hold up against litigation, however, is another matter. We spoke with McKeon last week.

Q. Can you quantify the cost of climate change on our state, and how much it will swell in the coming years?

A. Actually, were all searching for a number, and some of the foremost experts in the state werent able to be helpful. But to be conservative, its multiple billions, relative to property loss. And the need for resiliency to mitigate the loss that is inevitable, based upon the changing weather patterns.

Q. You mean multiple billions annually?

A. For certain. New York just did a bond referendum for $4.5 billion thats earmarked toward resiliency, and that goes hand in hand with the law that Gov. Hochul could sign soon  a law that will bring them $3 billion a year from 36 companies for 25 years.

Q. So this is going to be the hottest summer on record, but how do we hold oil companies accountable for that, when its a global problem?

A. Well, it is global, but were dealing with a specific time period, starting in 1995  the first year of the UN meetings on climate change. The companies responsible for the 1 billion metric tons of carbon since that date will contribute to the damage incurred since then. Were giving them a pass for everything up to 1995.

In terms of accountability, Id equate it to the tobacco industry knowing the hazards of smoke to human health. By 1995  unless they had their heads in the sand, which they didnt  the fossil fuel companies knew the repercussions of what they continue to do, and made record profits off this, as they still do every year. Were asking them to mitigate the damage.

Q. Thats an interesting distinction: The bill seeks payback for the damage, not for the deception. On the other hand, the lawsuit filed by our state in 2022 against five oil companies charges them with making false claims and for systematically concealing and denying knowledge of a future catastrophic impact.

A. Right, its not about deception, which is why we didnt go deeper than 1995. The point is, they sure knew by then. So were actually giving them the benefit of doubt that they didnt recognize the profound damage that burning fossil fuels would create. But once they certainly knew, they continued to produce and to profit at record levels. Thats the distinction.

We mentioned tobacco, but its more about the NRD (Natural Resource Damage) laws regarding toxic waste sites. Not all of the companies knew what they had produced a century ago, when they were refining oil off of the coast of Bayonne, and nobody knew the damage it caused. So this is more equitable in my view: Were picking a date when any reasonable entity would have known the consequences of what they were doing.

Q. So if this is modeled on the Superfund law, how do we decide who pays what?

A. It will be a calculation made by regulators. Again, theres the threshold of the 1 billion metric tons before they would be required to pay. The working number is 36 companies -- that was the number in New York, and the number of oil companies with business connections to New Jersey will be similar. And if there happens to be a producer thats never touches a New Jersey market, they would be exempted.

But given the way companies are all structured, those will be rare. If they have contacts in New Jersey, then the regulators will make it proportionate. Some companies might have had 4 billion tons during that time frame, whereas others might just get over the billion. So theyll pay the portion based upon that sum.

Q. Are you concerned that these companies will pass the cost on to the consumer? How can you protect consumers from bearing the burden here?

A. Well, the money has to come from somewhere, because we cant continue like this. There is just too much expensive work needed on our bridges, our railroads, our infrastructure, for coastal wetland restoration, for stormwater discharge programs. That money must be spent one way or the other. No doubt, the oil companies will argue that you and I consume fossil fuel and bear some responsibility or blame the motorist or power plants for using their products. Thats the argument they use in court.

Q. But are they entirely wrong? Its true that we have known since 2016 about those infamous 1977 Exxon memos that predicted the climate catastrophes by mid-century, but we never passed any legislation to deal with it. So arent we liable?

A. I dont know if thats a fair argument. Were dealing with publicly traded, for-profit companies that have been making billions for decades, knowing that the byproduct was going to bring cataclysmic change that were only now starting to realize. So its time for them to help  in the same way weve held other polluters for the consequences of their industry. In a sense, were all responsible.

Do I share the theoretical frustration of government not having done more sooner? I absolutely do; thats a valid criticism. But thats not a shield from them being held responsible. Because given the profits theyve generated, they werent going to say, Well, you should have stopped us.

Q. So what is your level of confidence this law will hold up, once Big Oil takes the state to court? And didnt your chances just get diminished by the Chevron decision, which will likely leave this verdict up to judges and not environmental experts?

A. True. I once had great confidence that our assault weapons ban would never be reversed here in our state, and I was shocked when I saw that opinion (that the ban is unconstitutional) by the District Court. Im more angry about that than anything else right now. So I cant predict with reasonable certainty -- especially in this climate, no pun intended -- what the courts will do. But as a legislator, lets not let potential court rulings be a barrier of addressing policy. Otherwise, wed never get anything done.

Obviously, this should be done on a federal level, but as piecemeal as it might be, states need to fall in line and make this a priority. New Jersey will be heard. And its no coincidence that Massachusetts, California, Maryland, and so many others are following this model.

Q. It seems like an all-or-nothing bet: Oil companies are making windfall profits, and its unclear that they take climate change seriously. Which means they may never have an incentive to help fund infrastructure resilience projects.

A. Why would they? To the extent that theyre diversifying to some component of clean energy, thats mostly so they can continue the party, until it gets to the point where that type of energy is depleted or its so bad that the government has to ban it to prevent further damage. So right now, theyre making everything they can as long as they can.

Q. So whats the timetable on this bill?

A. As soon as were back in session were going to drop it. Senator Bob Smith talked about it a little bit today in committee, and Bob is going to be the prime co-sponsor. I know were going to get it out of Senate Environment. I would think the Assembly will have an appetite for it. Then it depends on the good guys versus the bad guys, if the moneyed interests will outweigh the urgency to do something. But Im optimistic that Democratic leadership in both houses will get it to the governors desk before the end of his term.

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Donald Trumps running mate, JD Vance, accused his opponent of stolen valor garbage and accused him of having abandoned his unit in 2005 ahead of a planned deployment to Iraq.

Vance blasted Tim Walz on the campaign trail Wednesday as stories have reemerged from his 2018 run for governor of veterans criticizing him at the time for embellishing his military career. Retired veterans at the time said in a Facebook post that Walz retired from his 24-year tenure in the National Guard after learning that his battalion would be deployed to Iraq.

He says that we shouldnt allow weapons that I used in war to be on the American streets. Well, I wonder Tim Walz, when were you ever in war? What was this weapon that you carried into war given that you abandoned your unit right before they went to Iraq, Vance said.

He has not spent a day in a combat zone, he said. What bothers me about Tim Walz is the stolen valor garbage. Do not pretend to be something that youre not.

Other vets have come to Walzs defense over the criticism thats been lobbed years ago and back in the forefront, reminiscent of the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth campaign that badly damaged Democrat John Kerrys 2004 presidential prospects.

Chris LaCivita, the Republican strategist who was behind the movement, is a senior strategist for Trump.

Walz, 60, was in the Army National Guard and reached the rank of command sergeant major prior to retiring.

Many followers not familiar with the military are asking me so whats the big deal about a command sergeant major? Walz joined at 18 as a private. Rose through the NCO (sergeant) ranks, each requiring extreme competence at increasingly demanding jobs with more people & responsibility at every rank, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Mark Hertling said on X.

They know what theyre doing. They uphold standards, he said. So, those are my thoughts on Command Sergeants Major. While I dont know the details of @GovTimWalz career wearing the cloth of our country, just the fact that he volunteered to serve and wore the CSM rank tells me a lot about him.

Vance is a former Marine who was deployed to Iraq.

NPRs Quil Lawrence, who covers national security, climate and veterans issues nationwide, reported Vance worked as a civil affairs Marine who helped escort journalists around the wartorn country. He noted Vance has been careful not to say he served in a combat role.

Theres a civilian-military divide in this country and very people have firsthand experience, or even family experience, of military service, and I think most veterans, they really dont care what role you had with the proviso that at long as youre not bragging about doing something that you didnt do. And he hasnt done that, Lawrence said.

He was in Iraq in a very tough year in Iraq. I can tell you, personally, that it was a very violent year and a lot of the combat in Iraq and Afghanistan wasnt really any sort of a frontline combat gunfight, he said. It was convoys getting blown up and mortars dropping anywhere on anyone, so I think veterans give Vance credit for going and as he says, serving honorably. And he has not been saying that he did anything other than what he did, which was go over and serve honorably.

Trump, meanwhile, avoided service in the Vietnam War through student and medical deferments.

He said he got a medical deferment for a bone spur in a foot, but could not remember which foot when he talked about it in 2015. He added that he did not serve because he was not a big fan of the Vietnam War. I wasnt a protester, but the Vietnam War was a disaster for our country.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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News / National

by Staff reporter

Five young men, aged between 21 and 25, have been arrested for staging a robbery along the Harare-Masvingo Highway on Sunday.The suspects, Richard Banda (23), Tawananyasha Nyengerai (21), Lionel Chipenzi (25), Harrison Chiinge (24), and Calos Muwani (23), were accused of stealing US$193,900 and a cellphone from a Toyota Hiace vehicle traveling from Bulawayo to Harare.National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests on Tuesday. The suspects posed as police officers, stopped the vehicle, and snatched a bag containing the money and cellphone before fleeing in a Nissan Note, registration number AGN 2303. Investigations linked Richard Banda to the crime, leading to his arrest and the subsequent arrest of his cousin Tawananyasha Nyengerai and the other suspects.The police recovered US$100,442 in cash. Commissioner Nyathi commended the police crack teams for their swift action and emphasized that all robbery syndicates and those leaking information about their employers' financial status and movements will be brought to justice.
Polling showed President Joe Biden sinking and only when it looked obvious that hed bring other Democrats around the country down with him did party leaders step in and call on him to bow out against former President Donald Trump in an unprecedented move.

Now, polling shows a boost for Vice President Kamala Harris, including flipping a key voter bloc  independents  as November approaches. But the election is, for all intents and purposes, a tossup, polls show.

Veteran reporter Jonathan Martins latest column for POLITICO details how Harris campaign appears to know she and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, need to appeal to a broader coalition. And he particularly grabbed hold of a moment during the VPs speech Tuesday in Philadelphia that sent chills up the spines of the GOP.

Martin writes:

How will she run? Will she practice the sort of defensive politics Bill Clinton and Barack Obama mastered, in their own way and in different decades, to reassure middle America they were no radicals? Or will she adopt a new, fit-for-Trumpian-times model of simply rousing core supporters and betting contempt for opposition will carry the day?

She did both on Tuesday and, before a partisan audience, it was not surprising that the red meat drew the loudest applause. Yet for a candidate knocked for being captive to prepared remarks  and shes still yet to speak extemporaneously for any length since President Joe Biden withdrew from the race  her most effective moment may have been when she deviated slightly from script.

It was when she hailed the promise of America, recounting how two middle-class kids from very different places, Oakland, California, and the heartland, could perhaps get to the White House together.

Only in America, she said, repeating herself. Then, as if in the pulpit, she said it three more times: Only in America. The crowd, perhaps inspired by the Olympics, got the cue and began chanting U-S-A!

It was the stuff of Republican nightmares.

The only in America line that triggered the U-S-A chant has some Dems wanting more



Including Wes Moore



He thinks Harris should drape her nominating convention later this month, literally and metaphorically, with the stars and stripes.



This needs to be framed as a  Jonathan Martin (@jmart) August 7, 2024

Walzs selection settled one big question mark among Democrats, but plenty of major challenges remain for the final months of a race already defined by its unexpected twists and turns.

There is the prospect of a wider war in the Middle East, the possibility of a rate cut by the Federal Reserve that might calm global financial markets and questions about whether Trump and Harris will actually square off in a September debate that was set before Biden bowed out of the race.

No matter what happens, the conventional narratives of a presidential campaign have already had seemingly brief shelf lives. Voters over the past few weeks have dealt with Bidens disastrous performance in the June 27 debate against Trump, a brazen assassination attempt on Trump, Bidens exit from the race and Harris quick ascendance among Democrats.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Kamala Harris has so far been able to accomplish something Joe Biden struggled to do during his ill-fated reelection bid.

Attract a massive crowd.

Some 10,000 people at a recent rally in Atlanta. More than 12,000 people packed inside an arena in Philadelphia on Tuesday for her to introduce her running mate. Thousands more lining up at an event in Wisconsin Wednesday as she hits the trail with vice presidential hopeful Tim Walz.

Three hours until Harris and Walz are set to appear in Eau Claire and this is the line of cars to get to the rally 1.5 miles away, The Washington Posts Sabrina Rodriguez posted to X with a photo of a long line of cars.

Three hours until Harris and Walz are set to appear in Eau Claire and this is the line of cars to get to the rally



1.5 miles away. pic.twitter.com/kwyqikAqNV  Sabrina Rodriguez (@sabrod123) August 7, 2024

A look at the crowd lining up for Harris/Walz in Eau Claire, WI. Theyll be joined by WI Gov Tony Evers, Sen Tammy Baldwin, and musician Bon Iver (Eau Claire native). JD Vance also in town speaking at same time, CBS News Minnesotas Adam Duxter posted.

Weve got quite the crowd trying to get into this Harris-Walz rally in Eau Claire. (2 hours in traffic and counting!) POLITICOs Elena Schneider posted.

Weve got quite the crowd trying to get into this Harris-Walz rally in Eau Claire. (2 hours in traffic and counting!) pic.twitter.com/1ChmrrIuY1  Elena Schneider (@ec_schneider) August 7, 2024

Some kinda lines getting to the Harris Walz rally in Eau Claire, Wisconsin pic.twitter.com/Tr6rXxuHX3  Glen Stubbe (@gspphoto) August 7, 2024

A look at the crowd lining up for Harris/Walz in Eau Claire, WI. Theyll be joined by WI Gov Tony Evers, Sen Tammy Baldwin, and musician Bon Iver (Eau Claire native). JD Vance also in town speaking at same time. Full coverage today on @CBSNews and @WCCO pic.twitter.com/uy7InTX7Ro  Adam Duxter (@AdamDuxter) August 7, 2024

Harris and Walz are spending their first full day as running mates rallying Democrats across the Midwest, a politically divided region that is crucial to their effort to win the White House in less than three months.

The trip, which begins in Wisconsin before shifting to Michigan, is aimed at shoring up support among the younger, diverse, labor-friendly voters who were instrumental in helping President Joe Biden win the 2020 election. But that coalition showed signs of fraying over the summer, particularly in Michigan, which has emerged as a focal point of Democratic divisions over Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

In Michigan, leaders say Democratic enthusiasm has surged since Harris announced her candidacy.

That could be pivotal in Detroit, which is nearly 80% Black, where leaders for months had warned administration officials that voter apathy could cost them in a city thats typically a stronghold for their party. Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the NAACP Detroit branch, said the excitement in the city now is mind-blowing. He likened it to Barack Obamas first run for president in 2008, when voters waited in long lines to help elect the nations first Black president.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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A New Jersey woman who says she was handcuffed, but not under arrest, when a State Police trooper punched her in the face has sued for $1.5 million.

Tiffany Contos lawsuit alleges trooper Nicolas J. Hogan used excessive force and she was falsely arrested on Sept. 7, 2022. The federal suit, filed July 31, also names the State Police and Superintendent Patrick Callahan as defendants, alleging the other troopers present failed to intervene and were not properly trained by the agency.
A 46-year-old Florida man admitted Tuesday he sexually assaulted a 6-year-old child in Warren County, authorities said.

The sexual act happened in Phillipsburg in July 2018, according to a statement from the Warren County Prosecutors Office.

Cameron M. Scrudato, of Inverness, Florida, pleaded guilty to first-degree sexual assault and is now scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 18, the office said.
NEW YORK  Clay Holmes thought about where hes been and where he is when the Yankees were in San Francisco earlier this season.

The Giants were the last team I played against when I was with Pittsburgh, Holmes told NJ Advance Media. I had a bad outing in Arizona against the Diamondbacks. We came to play the Giants and thats when I was traded. Back in San Francisco, that always takes me back to how much change and how much good fortune Ive had being a Yankee. It makes me think about where Im at in my career.
NEW YORK  Ever since deciding they could live without right-hander Jack Flaherty, the trade deadlines shiniest toy, the Yankees went to great lengths to explain why they tuned out the noise on social media and play the long game instead.

First, they had a hunch Jazz Chisholm Jr., acquired from the Marlins, would be the everyday B-12 shot Yankees needed more than anything else.
News / National

by Staff reporter

ZIMBABWE MUST HAVE PROPER ELECTIONS AND FIX BROKEN POLITICS



Following the discredited, illegal and disputed 2023 General Elections, Zimbabweans have not known normalcy or peace.



As of now, 78 families and a one-year old child are without their loved ones. This is because the pic.twitter.com/mrZKeICvxw  nelson chamisa (@nelsonchamisa) August 6, 2024

Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has condemned the ongoing repression of pro-democracy activists in Zimbabwe, attributing the crackdown to the fallout from the disputed 2023 general elections. Chamisa has called for a "proper" plebiscite, arguing that the current political climate is marked by instability and unrest as a direct consequence of the contested elections.The government's intensified actions against pro-democracy activists and opposition supporters, who are accused of planning protests ahead of the 44th SADC Summit, have further fueled tensions. Chamisa criticized the administration's response, emphasizing that these actions are exacerbating the political turmoil in the country.Chamisa highlighted the plight of 78 families and a one-year-old child who are without their loved ones, detained for their political views and activities. He noted that these political prisoners were forcibly taken from a celebration of Africa Youth Day on June 16, 2024, and have been held in custody for 45 days.In addition, Chamisa pointed out the suffering of families of prominent figures such as Namatai Kwekeza, Samuel Gwenzi, Robson Chere, Promise Munkuli, and Vusimuzi Moyo. He criticized the government's crackdown as an unjust punishment for those advocating for a better Zimbabwe and standing against injustices.The ongoing crackdown on opposition figures in Zimbabwe has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights watchdogs and foreign diplomats, who accuse the government of stifling democratic freedoms. Critics argue that the government's actions are shrinking the democratic space and suppressing dissent.Nelson Chamisa, an opposition leader, has highlighted the harsh reality faced by many citizens, who find themselves imprisoned for merely exercising their constitutional rights to freedom of association. He has expressed concern that both young and old people are being detained without just cause, with their only crime being their political beliefs or aspirations for a better life. Chamisa emphasized that in Zimbabwe, active and conscious citizenship, particularly among the youth, has come to be criminalized.Chamisa has characterized the government's repression as a severe assault on the rights of Zimbabweans, urging a unified response against these violations. He has called for solidarity across political divides and among progressive communities globally to denounce this repression and advocate for justice and the protection of human rights.In his statement, Chamisa also criticized the government's approach as unrepresentative of civilized politics, describing it as bizarre and abnormal. He has called on SADC (Southern African Development Community) and other African nations to join in condemning these actions and standing up for democratic principles and the rights of citizens.
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News / National

by Staff reporter

A jury has convicted a woman of laundering money from a variety of scams, including romance fraud online.Sherlyn Sims, a/k/a "Sherlyn Dzinzi," is from Zimbabwe, but she set up business in Georgia.Prosecutors accused her of setting up a company, then getting bank accounts in their name and soliciting people to send her money.She then would transfer the money to third party counties like China and then cash out.They say she ran several romance cons.One involved a man who told a woman he came to America to meet her, but was held up in Boston until he could "pay his taxes."She sent Sims $100,000.Prosecutors say she diverted $1.2 million dollars of funds sent to her various bank accounts from her scams.They included a COVID loan she got from the government.Sims will be sentenced in November.
A bulldozer moves trash at the Jefferson Parish Sanitary Landfill in Waggaman, La. Wednesday, July 25, 2018. The landfill on the West Bank of the Mississippi River has come under scrutiny because of horrible smells that have troubled residents on the East Bank and West Bank of the river in Jefferson Parish.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The National Aids Council (NAC) in Zimbabwe is urgently searching for approximately 100,000 individuals who are HIV positive but not receiving antiretroviral treatment (ARVs). Despite 10.6% of the population living with HIV, most are on treatment, with 1.2 million out of 1.3 million receiving medication.NAC's acting chief executive officer, Dr. Amon Mpofu, emphasized the importance of everyone with HIV getting treatment, noting that there is no excuse for avoiding medication. Zimbabwe has made significant progress towards ending AIDS by 2030, achieving the 95-95-95 targets (95% knowing their status, 95% on treatment, and 95% achieving viral suppression).Dr. Mpofu urged those not on treatment to seek help, highlighting that early treatment minimizes the chances of transmitting the virus. He also praised the Aids Levy, a unique funding initiative that has significantly improved HIV treatment and prevention efforts in Zimbabwe. This levy has been recognized globally as a best practice model, supporting the purchase of ARVs and other HIV-related initiatives. Dr. Mpofu called for collective efforts from all stakeholders to ensure the success of these initiatives.
News / National

by Staff reporter

A Harare magistrate has dismissed political activist Jacob Ngarivhume's application challenging his placement on remand. Mrs. Ruth Moyo ruled that Ngarivhume must answer to the charges and allow investigations to proceed.Ngarivhume (46) and his co-accused, Kelvin Gonde (45), face two counts of participating in an unlawful gathering and disorderly conduct. They have been remanded in custody until August 8 for a bail application hearing.The charges stem from an incident on June 16, where Ngarivhume and 78 Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists were allegedly part of a riotous gathering at Jameson Timba's house. Police reported that the crowd threw stones, injuring two officers and damaging a police vehicle. The activists were apprehended after police used tear gas to disperse them.In a related case, CCC activist Last Chinodya (45) appeared before Harare magistrate Ms. Vongai Guriro on charges of disorderly conduct. Prosecutor Mr. Thomas Chanakira stated that on June 27, Chinodya and others gathered at the Harare Magistrates Court, chanting party slogans and using abusive language after Timba and 78 other CCC members were denied bail. The bail application for Chinodya was deferred for continuation today.
Tesco has expressed its gratitude to the people of North Devon for their efforts in combating poverty and reducing food waste.

This comes as the supermarket chain celebrates the significant milestone of donating 220 million meals through its Community Food Connection programme in collaboration with the food charity FareShare.

This impressive achievement, marking 12 years of partnership, has seen 9,912,493 meals worth of food donated in the North Devon region alone.

Matthew Barnes, UK CEO of Tesco, said: Tesco is immensely proud of its partnership with

FareShare and the fantastic achievement of donating 220 million meals over the last 12

years.

None of this could have been done without the passion, determination and drive of the

countless people in places such as North Devon who have contributed to it, and it is to them

today that we say a big thank you.

But the hard work doesnt stop here. While this is a momentous milestone, we remain

committed to partnering with FareShare as we work towards our goal of halving food waste

and getting more good food to people.

The Community Food Connection programme ensures surplus food from Tesco stores and distribution centres is donated to FareShares network of charities, community groups, and food banks.

This initiative not only helps to alleviate poverty but also plays a crucial role in reducing food waste.

George Wright, CEO of FareShare, said: FareShare has worked with Tesco since 2012 to help alleviate poverty in the UK by ensuring surplus food within its supply chain is used to feed people and doesnt end up as waste. Quite simply, FareShare could not do what we do without Tescos incredible support.

The milestone of 220 million meals donated is a testament to all those involved in our partnership with Tesco. These 220 million meals have supported causes across the UK, from local community groups, charities and food banks helping those who need it most.
A Jim Falls man has been charged with a felony-level hit-and-run crash, stemming from a June 7 three-vehicle crash in Chippewa Falls.

Nicko J. Bruhn, 38, 15582 Highway 178, was charged in Chippewa County Court with three counts of hit-and-run involving an injury and two counts of misdemeanor-level hit-and-run. Bruhn also was cited for inattentive driving and failure to notify police of an accident. Judge James Isaacson set a court date for Sept. 17.

According to the criminal complaint, the three-vehicle crash happened June 7 at Business 29 and Chippewa Crossing Boulevard. The officer was informed that the offending vehicle fled the scene, heading north on Highway 124. A witness provided the offending vehicle registration and a description of the vehicle.

When the officers arrived at the scene of the crash, he observed one car had been rear-ended and pushed into another vehicle.

All parties reported being sore and requested to be medically evaluated, the complaint reads.

Officers observed cuts and abrasions on heads of the victims. One woman was transported to an area hospital with a neck injury.

Officers learned that all vehicles were westbound on Highway 29 and had stopped at the lights at Chippewa Crossing Boulevard when they were struck from behind by Bruhns vehicle.

An officer contacted a woman who is listed as the owner of the vehicle, and she said her boyfriend, Bruhn, was driving at the time, and he had called her after the crash had occurred.

Bruhn admitted he left the scene after the crash and less than a mile later, realized he should have probably stayed at the scene, but continued driving home. Bruhn also claimed he spoke with others involved in the crash who said they were all OK, so that was why he decided to leave the scene.

Officers later obtained medical reports of the victims. One had a strained neck and strained back and whiplash. Another had neck pain, whiplash and a concussion.

Online court records show Bruhn has no prior criminal record in Wisconsin.
Harsha Recovery Center plans to build a 90-bed residential treatment facility in Merrillville, displacing an assisted living facility.

The mental health care provider received Town Council approval to open a behavioral health treatment facility at 8253 Virginia St., but it still must close on the property. It's now the Virginia Place assisted living facility at the southwest corner of the U.S. 30 interchange of Interstate 65.

Harsha Recovery Center will be a state-licensed residential treatment facility that will provide the patients with around-the-clock care for mental health and addiction. It's now looking to hire an executive director.

"The goal is to help residents overcome challenges and develop healthy coping skills," Harsha Recovery Center said in a letter to the town of Merrillville.

Harsha Recovery Center aims to invest millions to renovate and convert the property. A purchase agreement was reached with owner and Virginia Place operator OPS Living on July 25 but has not been finalized due to a 60-day due diligence facility.

Virginia Place will close when the sale closes. Displaced staff will be transferred to other OPS Living facilities and affected residents will be referred to other assisted living communities in Northwest Indiana, to company said.

Once the deal is finalized, the OPS Living team will work diligently with the State of Indiana in accordance with established regulations that govern the closing of an assisted living facility, the letter states. OPS Living plans to host informational meetings for both residents, family of residents, and our staff once we know the sale will be finalized. During these meetings, we will provide the timing of the closing and will have several alternative assisted living options available to residents. We will also provide opportunities for staff to join either the HRC or other assisted living communities.

Merrillville asked for a review of the Harsha Recovery Center after a year. It said it will provide the Town Council and neighboring businesses with quarterly updates.

They stepped up and wanted to have the reviews done more frequently, Town Councilman Shawn Pettit said. They came out and talked to their neighbors, and they were satisfied with their response.

Harsha Recovery Center operates healthcare facilities across Indiana, including a behavioral treatment center that opened in Terre Haute 15 years ago.
The Indiana Court of Appeals has declined to overturn the convictions or reduce the 35-year prison sentence issued to a Michigan City man who gunned down a 19-year-old man outside a home in Valparaiso.

Keith Blake, 35, was convicted last year of reckless homicide and unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon in connection with the March 3, 2021, shooting death of Noah Beller in the 3700 block of Oak Grove Drive, according to court records.

Records show the shooting followed a dispute over a paternity test that escalated first to physical violence and ended with Blake shooting Beller in the chest.

In his appeal, Blake challenged a portion of the evidence presented at his trial and argued the length of his prison term was inappropriate given the nature of the offenses and his character.

The appellate court rejected both claims in a 3-0 ruling penned by Senior Judge John Baker.

Baker said Blake's evidentiary claim was waived for appeal because Blake did not follow the required procedure at trial. But even if it were eligible for review, any error associated with it was harmless since it was cumulative of other evidence presented at trial, Baker said.

As to Blake's sentence  just shy of the 38-year enhanced maximum for using a firearm to commit the crimes  Baker said Blake was single-handedly responsible for turning a minor altercation with children present into a scene of violence by firing a gun and killing Beller.

Blake's character, likewise, does not warrant any sentence reduction, given that Blake's criminal record began as a 15-year-old, he previously spent a decade in prison, was on probation at the time of the shooting, lied to police, and told others to lie for him, Baker said.

"Blake offers no compelling evidence of a substantial virtuous trait or persistent example of good character. In sum, neither the nature of the offenses nor Blake's character renders his 35-year sentence for killing a young man inappropriate," Baker said.

Blake still can ask the Indiana Supreme Court to consider reviewing his convictions and sentence. Otherwise, his earliest possible release date from prison, assuming good behavior, is June 4, 2047, according to the Indiana Department of Correction.

Gallery: Take a virtual tour of Indiana's state parks Brown County State Park Chain O' Lakes State Park Charlestown State Park Clifty Falls State Park Falls of the Ohio State Park Fort Harrison State Park Harmonie State Park Lincoln State Park McCormick's Creek State Park Mounds State Park O'Bannon Woods State Park Ouabache State Park Pokagon State Park Potato Creek State Park Prophetstown State Park Shades State Park Shakamak State Park Spring Mill State Park Summit Lake State Park Tippecanoe River State Park Turkey Run State Park Versailles State Park White River State Park Whitewater Memorial State Park
Workers at the first unionized Apple Store in the country ratified a labor contract with the tech giant on Tuesday, after a year and a half in which bargaining appeared to stall for long stretches and union campaigns at other stores fell short.

After the union announced the outcome, Apple said it did not dispute the result and was pleased to have an agreement.

The contract, covering about 85 workers at a Towson, Md., store who voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in June 2022, will provide a typical worker with a raise of roughly 10 percent over the next three years.

The workers will also effectively receive the same benefits as those in nonunion stores  a point of contention since the company introduced new benefits that excluded union stores in the fall of 2022  as well as guaranteed severance pay.
Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe of Missouri won the Republican primary for governor on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press, giving him the upper hand in a contest in November to succeed Mike Parson.

Mr. Kehoe, 62, defeated two rivals who portrayed themselves as more conservative alternatives to the current state leadership. They included Missouris secretary of state, Jay Ashcroft, the son of the former Missouri governor and U.S. senator and attorney general John Ashcroft. Jay Ashcroft finished third behind State Senator Bill Eigel, who pledged to act aggressively to expel all undocumented immigrants from Missouri.

Mr. Parson, 68, who has served as governor since June 2018 and remains broadly popular, is barred by term limits from running this year. He endorsed Mr. Kehoe last month.

In the Democratic primary, State Representative Crystal Quade, the House minority leader, defeated Mike Hamra, a businessman.
Representative Cori Bush of Missouri, one of the most outspoken progressives in the House, lost her primary on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press, falling to a campaign by powerful pro-Israel political groups intent on ousting a fierce critic of the nations war in Gaza.

Her opponent, Wesley Bell, a county prosecutor, ran as a progressive and a pragmatist. But he was boosted by more than $8 million in spending from a super PAC affiliated with the countrys largest pro-Israel lobby, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or AIPAC, and other similar entities. That outside money transformed the race into one of the most expensive House primaries in history.

The contentious contest came just weeks after Representative Jamaal Bowman of New York, another outspoken progressive and vocal Israel critic, suffered a stinging primary defeat. The same pro-Israel groups that poured $15 million into defeating Mr. Bowman were aiding Mr. Bell, and all eyes were on Ms. Bush to see if she would be the next member of the ultraliberal squad to see defeat.

Ms. Bush, a former nurse, was first elected in 2020 as part of a wave of progressive victories over establishment figures that elevated forceful Black voices, including Mr. Bowman, during a summer of protests against police brutality. Ms. Bush first made a name for herself in her community in 2014, as a leading Black activist who took to the streets in Ferguson after the killing of Michael Brown, a Black teenager, by a white police officer.
Ismael Zambada Garcia, the Mexican drug lord who was apparently kidnapped by a son of his former partner in crime last month and flown across the border into the hands of U.S. federal agents in Texas, will soon be sent to stand trial in Brooklyn, according to four people familiar with the situation.

The decision by the Justice Department to prosecute Mr. Zambada Garcia, 76, in Brooklyn means that he will face trial in the same federal courthouse where his former ally, Joaquin Guzman Loera, better known as El Chapo, was convicted five years ago on drug conspiracy charges and ultimately sentenced to life in prison.

Two weeks ago, Mr. Zambada Garcia, who has evaded capture in his homeland for nearly 50 years, was lured from one of his mountaintop hide-outs to the Mexican city of Culiacan, which has long served as a stronghold for the Sinaloa cartel.

He believed he was going to help one of El Chapos sons, Joaquin Guzman Lopez, mediate a dispute between two local politicians, according to three people familiar with the matter. Instead, he was ambushed, muscled onto a plane and flown across the border to a small regional airport near El Paso, where agents from the F.B.I. and Homeland Security Investigations were waiting for him.
Representative Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat, and former Representative Mike Rogers, a Republican, will square off for an open Senate seat in Michigan in what is likely to be one of the tightest and most closely watched Senate campaigns in the country.

As expected, Ms. Slotkin and Mr. Rogers easily prevailed in their Senate primaries on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press, setting up a remarkably even contest for the fall.

Both held the same Central Michigan House district around Lansing and East Lansing. Both made their names in national security, Mr. Rogers as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, Ms. Slotkin with her work for the Central Intelligence Agency, Defense Department, State Department and White House National Security Council.

And in vying for the seat of Senator Debbie Stabenow, a Democratic stalwart who is retiring, both still need to work to broaden their appeal in a pivotal battleground where neither has held statewide office.
Washington States closely watched race for governor will be a contest between two candidates known for their backgrounds in law enforcement.

Bob Ferguson, the states Democratic attorney general, and Dave Reichert, a former sheriff who served as a Republican in Congress, emerged as the top two vote-getters in the states open primary election Tuesday night. Though the states vote-by-mail system means many ballots remain to be counted, the overall outcome was not expected to change.

Democrats have won every race for governor in the past four decades, including Gov. Jay Inslee, who is not seeking re-election after three consecutive terms in office. But this year, though the polls suggest that Mr. Ferguson is favored, the race is expected to be one of the most competitive in the country.

With drug overdoses soaring across the state and a sharp rise in homicides in Seattle, the two top candidates spent much of the primary campaign emphasizing public safety. Mr. Reichert has spoken of his former work as the sheriff of King County who hunted down the Green River Killer. Mr. Ferguson has run ads saying he wants to hire more law enforcement officers. Public safety is my top priority, he says in one of them.
The Republican-controlled Georgia State Election Board approved on Tuesday a measure that could empower local officials to refuse or delay certification of a countys election results, creating the potential for another disputed and contentious post-election period in November.

The new rule states that before certifying results, local officials may conduct reasonable inquiry that the results are a true and accurate accounting of all votes cast in that election.

Though seemingly innocuous, the language implies that local election officials are awarded a level of discretion in the certification process, a suggestion that runs counter to decades of settled Georgia law delineating how results are officially certified. State law dictates that officials shall certify an election, making the process effectively ministerial; disputes over alleged fraud or major errors are typically left to recounts and courts.

The decision by the board worried Democrats and voting-rights advocates that the process could be weaponized if former President Donald J. Trump lost in November.
When Vice President Kamala Harris gathered some of her closest advisers in the dining room of the Naval Observatory on Saturday, they had more choices than time.

Her team had just wrapped up the fastest, most intensive vetting of potential running mates in modern history, a blitz of paperwork and virtual interviews that had concluded only on Friday. The advisers were there to present their findings on a list that still technically ran six deep to Ms. Harris, who had less than 72 hours to sift through it to make her final decision.

One by one, the circle of her most trusted confidants ran through the pros and cons of each possible No. 2. The sessions went long enough to be broken up with sandwiches and salads as the team eventually focused on the three men she would meet the next day for what would prove to be pivotal in-person interviews: Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona and Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania.

Polls had been conducted. Focus groups had been commissioned. Records reviewed. And the upshot, Ms. Harris was told, was this: She could win the White House with any of the three finalists by her side.
Two years ago, Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez won a seat in Congress in Washington State, beating her Republican rival, Joe Kent, by less than 3,000 votes.

The two politicians are now set for a rematch in November, according to The Associated Press, after pulling ahead of other candidates in Tuesdays open primary election for the Third Congressional District in the southwestern part of the state. Washington States vote-by-mail system means that many ballots are still to be counted.

Ms. Gluesenkamp Perez, a former auto-repair shop owner, has established herself in Congress as an independent voice, splitting with her party on key issues. Last month, she joined Republicans in voting to condemn Vice President Kamala Harriss handling of the southern border. She has so far declined to endorse Ms. Harris for the presidency.

Mr. Kent, a retired Green Beret, has the support of former President Donald J. Trump and has joined Mr. Trump in falsely claiming that the 2020 election was rigged. He advocated pardoning those who were accused of storming the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, describing them as political prisoners.
Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former Trump White House aide who is now a co-host of The View, wondered on social media, Does he not believe he should be able to vote for himself?

Former Representative Barbara Comstock, a Virginia Republican who has been sharply critical of Mr. Trump, wrote: Big reminder that Trump is a convicted felon with indicted felonies still to go to trial  and wants to pardon hundreds of violent Jan 6 felons but yeah, talk about felons, Mr. First ever nominated felon.

Mr. Trump is registered to vote in Florida, which, when it comes to whether felons can vote, defers to the laws of the state where a conviction took place. New York allows people with felony convictions to vote unless they are in prison, so Mr. Trump can cast a ballot unless he is incarcerated on Election Day.

Stricter laws in many Republican-led states would stop him from voting until he had completed all terms of his sentence, including parole or probation  or, in some cases, require further action to have his voting rights restored even after he completed his sentence.

Ms. Leavitt said: President Trump is eligible to vote. This does not apply to him at all.

A bill Mr. Walz signed last year made Minnesotas policy similar to the New York one, under which Mr. Trump is eligible: It restored voting rights to felons who had completed their prison sentences, rather than disenfranchising them until they completed parole or probation. Felons still lose their voting rights in Minnesota while they are incarcerated.
If Gov. Tim Walz has achieved anything after 18 years in public office, it has been to convince many of his fellow Minnesotans that he is decidedly not weird.

On Tuesday, Annakeiko Reichel-Frink, a teacher from Mankato, Minn., called Mr. Walz a very normal human being. Maria Bevacqua, a college professor from the same small city, where Mr. Walz once taught at the high school, described him as somebody you would bump into at the grocery store. Adam Lueth, a college student who is leaning toward the Republican ticket, said that Mr. Walz, a Democrat, comes across as a genuine guy.

Mr. Walz was thrust into the national spotlight on Tuesday when Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, announced that he would be her running mate. The second-term governor seemed to rocket to the top of the list after he used one word quite effectively against Donald Trump, the Republican candidate: He was simply being weird.

Mr. Walz has succeeded in projecting an avuncular, affable, relentlessly normcore image to Minnesotans. But on Tuesday, in interviews across the state, voters also seemed less than convinced that Governor Walz had succeeded in rising above partisanship, or in uniting the state as One Minnesota, as his 2018 campaign slogan put it.
When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the classical music worlds reaction was swift. Artists with ties to President Vladimir V. Putin, or those who had publicly supported his war efforts, were dropped by orchestras and opera houses across the West.

One person who seemed to elude such punishment, though, was Teodor Currentzis, who is leading concerts and a production of Mozarts Don Giovanni at the prestigious Salzburg Festival in Austria. More than two years into the war, his continued presence there is frustrating to many, raising uncomfortable questions about what is acceptable in service of music.

Currentzis, who was born in Greece, was given Russian citizenship by Putins government in 2014, the year Russia invaded the Crimean peninsula. Two decades ago, he founded MusicAeterna, a small musical empire that started as an orchestra and now includes a choir and dance company in St. Petersburg.

MusicAeterna doesnt have any direct affiliation with Putin, but it came under scrutiny after the 2022 invasion because of support from the state-controlled VTB Bank (which has been penalized by the United States), as well as other government-related donors. Currentzis has been silent about the war, neither denouncing Russia nor supporting Ukraine.
The author and journalist Bob Woodward will publish a new book this fall called War, his publisher, Simon & Schuster, announced on Wednesday. The book, which will be released on Oct. 15, will focus on Ukraine, the Middle East and the raw cage-fight of politics of the 2024 election.

For more than 50 years, Woodward has done groundbreaking reporting on every president, starting with Richard Nixon, Jonathan Karp, the chief executive of Simon & Schuster and Woodwards editor, said in a statement. His work on the power of the presidency is unrivaled. With War, Woodward illustrates the dramatic contrast he sees between Donald Trump and his opponents for the presidency  Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, making this a must-read before heading to the polls.

Simon & Schuster said Woodwards new book would offer a behind the scenes look at President Bidens efforts to manage the war in Ukraine and contain the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Middle East, trying to deter the use of nuclear weapons and avoid a rapid slide into World War III.

Woodward, an associate editor at The Washington Post, has been part of that newsroom for more than 50 years. He has won two Pulitzer Prizes, the first for his coverage of Watergate and the second for coverage of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
First it was a tax cut for hotel and restaurant workers in Nevada, a swing state where Donald J. Trump proposed exempting tips from taxes. Then, in front of powerful chief executives gathered in Washington, Mr. Trump floated cutting the corporate tax rate, helping to ease concerns in the business community about his candidacy.

Now Mr. Trump is calling for an end to taxing Social Security benefits, which could be a boon for retirees, one of the most politically important groups in the United States.

Repeatedly during the campaign, Mr. Trump and Republicans have embraced new, sometimes novel tax cuts in an attempt to shore up support with major constituencies. In a series of social-media posts, at political rallies, and without formal policy proposals, Mr. Trump has casually suggested reducing federal revenue by trillions of dollars.

While policy experts have taken issue with the ideas, Mr. Trumps pronouncements have real political appeal, at times putting Democrats on their back foot. Nevadas two Democratic senators and its powerful culinary union have endorsed ending taxes on tips. The AARP supports tax relief for seniors receiving Social Security benefits, though it has not taken a position on Mr. Trumps proposal.
Over the past week, markets tumbled as fears ricocheted around the world about the health of the U.S. economy, tech sector and more. No market bore the brunt as much as Japan.

A key Japanese stock index, starting last Thursday, experienced its most severe two- and three-day trading drops since the 1950s  declines that analysts said could not be fully explained by the same factors affecting other countries.

Japan had one unique element exacerbating its problems. Its weakened currency, which had been inflating corporate profits and valuations, was beginning to appreciate at an alarming rate.

The turmoil has threatened one of the most enduring stock rallies in Japan in decades. Many reasons have been given for the strong performance of Japanese stocks starting early last year. Warren E. Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway expressed optimism about Japan as an alternative investment to China. The Tokyo Stock Exchange ramped up pressure on companies to enhance shareholder returns.
Global Times: It is reported that TEPCO started to dump the 8th batch of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean on August 7. The discharge is expected to last through August 25 and reach about 7,800 tonnes. What is Chinas comment?

Mao Ning: China opposes Japans unilateral discharge of nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean. This position remains unchanged. The ocean discharge of Japans Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water has an impact on the health of all humanity, the global marine environment and the global common good. This is by no means Japans private business. Japan still has not addressed international concerns about the discharge, including its safety, the long-term reliability of the treatment facility and the effectiveness of monitoring arrangements and so on, yet it continues dumping the water into the ocean and transferring the risk of nuclear pollution to the world. This is seriously irresponsible. China has expressed concern to Japan and engaged in in-depth communication with Japan multiple times.

China urges Japan to cooperate fully in putting in place a long-term, independent and effective international monitoring scheme with substantive participation of Japans neighboring countries and other stakeholders.

AFP: Kamala Harris has chosen Tim Walz as her White House running mate. Walz has a lot of connections to Chinahe taught English here. But he also met with the Dalai Lama as a Congressman as well as Hong Kong pro-democracy activists. Does the Foreign Ministry have any comment on how the choice might impact China-US relations?

Mao Ning: The US presidential election is the domestic affair of the US. We have no comment on it. We hope the US will work with China in the same direction under the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation and work for the steady, sound and sustainable development of China-US relations for the benefit of both countries and the wider world.

AFP: The US said Tuesday China will begin imposing controls on chemicals used to make the drug fentanyl. Can you share any more details?

Mao Ning: Id refer you to competent authorities for the specifics. China takes a firm stance on counternarcotics. As early as in 2019, China announced that it will officially schedule fentanyl-related substances as a classthe first country in the world to do so, and China has always put precursor chemicals under strict control.

AFP: A Chinese-born academic who feigned being a pro-democracy activist was convicted of acting as a covert Chinese agent, the Justice Department said. Does the Foreign Ministry have any comment?

Mao Ning: I am not familiar with what you mentioned.

RIA Novosti: It was reported that UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs David Lammy is considering making a visit to China, according to people familiar with the matter, to recalibrate the UKs relationship with Beijing. Can you confirm the visit? What is your view on the recalibration of China-UK relations?

Mao Ning: Our foreign minister recently met with him in Vientiane, Laos. We are positive and open towards enhancing bilateral exchanges and cooperation. Both China and the UK are permanent members of the UN Security Council and major economies in the world. A stable and mutually-beneficial China-UK relationship serves the fundamental interests of both peoples, helps the two sides come together to respond to global challenges, and contributes to world peace and development. We hope to work with the UK on the basis of mutual respect and win-win cooperation for new progress in bilateral relations, so as to bring more benefit to both countries and the wider world.

As for the visit you mentioned, I have no information to share at the moment.
Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, has cultivated an Everyman persona throughout his political career, cajoling his vegetarian daughter to eat a corn dog at the state fair, posting videos of himself suggesting simple fixes to car problems and calling Republicans weird on cable television.

And after he was announced as Vice President Kamala Harriss running mate on Tuesday, partisan media outlets on the left and right either leaned into that characterization or rejected it outright.

Writers and commentators at liberal outlets used adjectives like normal and vanilla to describe his potential appeal to voters in swing states, all while praising Mr. Walzs stances on progressive issues like abortion and gay rights.

Though some conservative outlets acknowledged Mr. Walzs folksy manner, they suggested it was a sheen that could obscure what they called dangerously radical, far-left views on issues like immigration and abortion.
In recent years, the process of getting an intrauterine device, or IUD, has become infamous on social media. Videos of women writhing and crying while the T-shaped contraceptive device is inserted have become macabre online staples.

Unless youre living under a rock, youre aware of the issue, said Dr. Beverly Gray, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Duke University.

Doctors have been accused of ignoring the discomfort. For the first time, federal health officials recommended on Tuesday that physicians counsel women about pain management before the procedure.

This updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may lead clinicians to take the pain more seriously and to consider using anesthetics more often, experts said.
In October of 1994, three student filmmakers disappeared in the woods near Burkittsville, Maryland while shooting a documentary. A year later their footage was found.

Audiences packed elbow-to-elbow into theaters in the summer of 1999 saw that shaky white text on a black background during the first moments of The Blair Witch Project. What followed was 80 or so minutes of growing dread as three 20-somethings  Josh, Heather and Mike  tried to uncover the truth behind the legend of a supernatural entity called the Blair Witch. It does not end well for the trio.

Initially shot for just $35,000, The Blair Witch Project grossed almost $250 million, then a record for an indie film. It became a pop culture phenomenon, one that foretold the found-footage horror boom and left one uneasy question hovering over moviegoers: Is this real? Its an existential riddle that looms larger than ever 25 years later, compelling us to apply that exact question to nearly every image, sound or nugget of information we encounter.

Back then, creating that air of uncertainty took some strategic work by the directors, Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sanchez. Marketed as a documentary, promotional materials included missing posters for its largely unknown lead actors  Joshua Leonard; Heather Donahue, now known as Rei Hance; and Michael C. Williams  who had to keep ultralow profiles in the lead-up to the films release.
Almost two years after the current outbreak of bird flu began in the United States, we are still flying blind.

Indications that H5N1 may have jumped to mammals first appeared the same year, when the virus killed hundreds of seals in New England and Quebec that summer, and then that fall there was a mass infection event at a Spanish mink farm. Epidemiologists have been warning about the risks of an overdue bird flu pandemic for decades, and so each new development arrived like the next beat in an already familiar story, almost too perfectly plotted to alarm. The outbreaks on American dairy farms began this March and the first human case in the United States since then was identified in April, which means that it has now been more than three full months since a pathogen long identified as among the most worrisome potential sources of a new pandemic infected an American this year. There is still nothing like a serious plan to even properly monitor the spread.

In Britain, the Health Security Agency recently raised its threat level to 4 out of 6, the stage immediately before large-scale human outbreaks. In Europe, countries are proactively vaccinating dairy and poultry workers against infection, with 15 nations already securing a total of 40 million doses through the European Commission. In the United States, despite having a stockpile of those vaccines, we are not distributing them, instead focusing on standing up voluntary supplies of seasonal flu vaccines to frontline workers. (The hope is that this will prevent animal infections of human flu that might aid in the further mutation of H5N1.) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has cited the low number of cases to justify its inaction, but it has also moved remarkably slowly to promote the kind of widespread surveillance testing that could actually identify cases. Only recently has the agency begun to mobilize real funding for a testing push, after a period of months in which various federal groups batted around responsibility and ultimate authority like a hot potato. And as was the case early in the Covid-19 pandemic, the C.D.C.s preferred test for bird flu has issues. Three months into the outbreak, only 45 people had even been tested; six weeks later, the total number of people tested had grown only to 230+.

Globally, H5N1 has infected more than 500 bird and mammal species, as Sharon Guynup has documented for Mongabay  a global panzootic which some conservationists believe now presents an existential threat to the worlds biodiversity. In the U.S., the bird flu has been identified in more than 100 million chickens in 48 states and 178 cattle herds spread across more than a dozen states, each a new cluster shedding virus out into a separate community. But delays in reporting details of even those dairy cases mean that the information is not especially helpful to any effort to control spread, and U.S. officials do not even appear to be sharing all the information they do have. Most American dairy farms are not regularly testing for H5N1, partly because the decision to do so has been left up to them, and in fact have refused to cooperate with efforts to chart how deeply the virus has infiltrated U.S. herds, as Helen Branswell of STAT has reported, seeing the possible stigma of admitting they have H5N1-infected cows as a greater risk than the virus itself.
It was a stunning victory. As results began to trickle in from around the country, they showed the opposition winning by a more than two-to-one margin. The once-formidable political machine in power proved to be no match for millions of voters who sent a clear message to their authoritarian leader: Your time is up.

But despite the landslide, the ruling party ignored the will of the people, and the leaders allies proclaimed him president.

Those events took place in Poland in 1989 under the rule of Gen. Wojciech Jaruzelski. But they could just as well have described Venezuela in the aftermath of its presidential election on July 28. The cases differ in key ways  unlike Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro, Mr. Jaruzelski was never accused of misrepresenting election tallies (as I strongly believe Mr. Maduro has done), and the election in Poland was for the legislature, which then appointed Mr. Jaruzelski president. But I believe there is something to be learned from this comparison, and especially from its aftermath.

As the international community contemplates how to react to Mr. Maduros apparent election theft, a sense of understandable fatigue has set in for observers hoping for an end to his long, corrosive and antidemocratic rule. After all, it seems either the international community or the countrys opposition have tried just about everything. Targeted sanctions aimed at regime officials? Done that. Oil sanctions to starve the government of resources? Tried that, too. Easing sanctions as an incentive to hold free elections? That didnt work, either. Put a $15 million reward on his head? Try to spur a military uprising? Check, check. None of it worked.
For weeks, NASA has downplayed problems experienced by Starliner, a Boeing spacecraft that took two astronauts to the International Space Station in June.

But on Wednesday, NASA officials admitted that the issues might be more serious than first thought and that the astronauts might not return on the Boeing vehicle, after all.

The agency is exploring a backup option for the astronauts, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, to instead hitch a ride back to Earth on a spacecraft built by Boeings competitor SpaceX.

The astronauts stay in orbit, which was to be as short as eight days, could be extended into next year.
On a hike through a sweaty Peruvian jungle in 2016, Kim Roelants, a biologist at Vrije University Brussel in Belgium, caught a tree frog. As the large amphibian squirmed, the mucus it left on Dr. Roelantss hands turned to glue.

My fingers were just stuck to each other, he said. Before I knew it, both of my hands, my flashlight, everything was stuck.

Similarly sticky secretions are found among other frogs as well as salamanders. The animals use this natural super glue to foil both predators and overcurious scientists. The mechanism behind this speedy adhesive  including how it evolved in unrelated amphibians  had been a mystery, Dr. Roelants said. In research published last month in Nature Communications, he and his team provided an answer: Noodle-like proteins found across the amphibian family tree have been adapted by a number of species to make their own fast-acting glue.

Many amphibians produce a layer of mucus over their skin. It keeps them moist and helps them breathe. And several, including common toads and more exotic, lethal species like poison dart frogs, secrete potent poisons to deter predators. But unfortunately, such poisons dont always act quickly, leading to unhappy results for an attacked amphibian, Dr. Roelants said.
Henrik Ingebrigtsen had no way of knowing that he was about to help shape the future of track-and-field fashion when, as a teenager in Norway nearly 20 years ago, he ordered a form-fitting one-piece speedsuit from Nike that was designed for 100- and 200-meter sprinters.

The twist was that Ingebrigtsen was not a sprinter. Instead, he specialized in the 1,500 meters, a middle-distance event that was the province of much more conservative attire.

Ingebrigtsen, though, had always enjoyed the stretchy apparel he had worn as a cross-country skier, and he thought the speedsuit would be a fun way for him to express himself on the track.

Mostly because I thought it looked cool, he said in a telephone interview.

At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, Ingebrigtsens influence has been on full display. No longer satisfied with the drab garb of the profession  loosefitting singlets, side-split shorts  half of the runners in the mens 1,500-meter final on Tuesday were clad in sleek thigh-length speedsuits made from materials like polyester and elastane.
There are more than 3,600 shows in this years Edinburgh Festival Fringe and most will struggle to get even a single newspaper review. Yet for months before the festival opened on Friday, one play was the subject of intense global media attention: TERF, an 80-minute drama about J.K. Rowling, the Harry Potter author, and her views on transgender women.

Before anybody had even read the script, a Scottish newspaper called the play, which imagines Rowling debating her views with the stars of the Harry Potter movies, a foul-mouthed attack on the author. An article in The Daily Telegraph said that scores of actresses had turned down the opportunity to play Rowling. And The Daily Mail, a tabloid, reported that the production had encountered trouble securing a venue.

On social media and womens web forums, too, TERF stirred outraged discussion.

The uproar raised the specter of pro-Rowling protesters outside the show and prompted debate in Edinburgh, the city that Rowling has called home for more than 30 years. But when TERF opened last week, it barely provoked a whimper. The only disturbance to a performance on Monday in the ballroom of Edinburghs Assembly Rooms came from a group of latecomers using a cellphone flashlight to find their seats. About 55 theatergoers watched the play in silence from the front few rows of the 350-seat capacity venue.
A New Zealand pilot was killed by gunmen on Monday in the restive Indonesian territory of Papua, where violence between the authorities and separatists has escalated in recent years but where foreign victims are rare.

The Indonesian authorities attributed the killing to the West Papua Liberation Army, an armed pro-independence group in the isolated and impoverished region, the countrys easternmost.

Separatists have occasionally used the kidnapping of foreign citizens to draw attention to their decades-long cause and for leverage in negotiations, but the intentional killing of foreigners is extremely rare. The rebel group accused by the authorities of killing Glen Conning, the pilot, on Monday said it was not clear that its fighters were involved.

Mr. Conning, 50, was working for an Indonesian company and ferrying civilians on a helicopter to the remote village of Alama, according to a local police officer. The gunmen captured Mr. Conning after he landed and proceeded to kill him and set his helicopter on fire, said the official, Faizal Ramadhani, a police general.
The military judge in the Sept. 11 case authorized lawyers on Wednesday to investigate whether Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III lawfully rescinded a plea agreement with the man accused of planning the attacks, Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, and two accused accomplices.

In doing so, Col. Matthew N. McCall, the judge, declined a request by Mr. Mohammeds lawyer to rule narrowly on whether Mr. Austin breached a lawful contract and, if so, hold a hearing this week on his plea.

The long-running case was thrown into confusion last week after a senior Pentagon official who oversees the military commissions signed an agreement with the three defendants to resolve the case with lifetime sentences  then, two days later, Mr. Austin rescinded it. Mr. Austin said they should face a death-penalty trial.

Colonel McCall ordered briefings on the question of whether there was unlawful influence in the case in time for the next round of hearings, starting on Sept. 16, days after the 23rd anniversary of the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people. The plea agreements remain under seal as case evidence.
In an appearance on Fox News early Wednesday morning, former President Donald J. Trump called the Democratic ticket of Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota communist and suggested he was willing to debate Ms. Harris anywhere, despite having pulled out of a scheduled debate.

He also hit at Mr. Walz over an interaction they had in April 2020, one which at the time led to the then president tweeting: Received a very nice call from @GovTimWalz of Minnesota. We are working closely on getting him all he needs, and fast. Good things happening!

He described Mr. Walz as calling him for help because he was scared of protesters outside his home, though reporting at the time described Mr. Walz asking Mr. Trump to help Minnesota get more personal protective equipment and increase its Covid testing capacity so that he could let businesses reopen in the early days of the pandemic.

Representatives for Mr. Trump did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday. Claire Lancaster, a spokeswoman for Mr. Walz, said the subject of that call was P.P.E. and testing capacity, not the protests.
Wesley Bell ensured his place in the spotlight on Tuesday when he defeated Representative Cori Bush in a nationally watched House primary that became a microcosm of the divide in the Democratic Party over Israels war in Gaza. Pro-Israel groups spent millions to oust Ms. Bush, who was the second member of the progressive group of lawmakers known as the Squad to lose a primary this summer.

Heres a closer look at Mr. Bell.

How old is he and where is he from?

He is 49 years old. He grew up in the northern part of St. Louis County. His father was a police officer and his mother is a county civil servant. He graduated from Lindenwood University in Missouri, where he double majored in political science and public management. He received his law degree from the University of Missouri.

From 2011 to 2018, Mr. Bell was professor and program coordinator of the criminal justice and legal studies departments at St. Louis Community College on the Florissant Valley campus, which is in Ferguson, Mo.

Where did he get his start in politics?

Mr. Bells foray into politics was unconventional for a progressive politician. In 2006, he was the campaign manager for a Republican, Mark J. Byrne, who ran unsuccessfully for the same House seat that Mr. Bell is now seeking to fill. A spokesman for Mr. Bell described the two men to the Huffington Post as friends who had different political affiliations and views on policy.
Hindus in Bangladesh, perceived by many to be supporters of the prime minister who was ousted in a popular uprising, braced for violent reprisals on Wednesday as the rudderless country awaited the formation of a new government after a month of unrest.

The former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, fled Bangladesh on Monday after a violent crackdown failed to quell a nationwide movement against her government. As thousands of protesters celebrated her ouster that afternoon, reports began to emerge of retaliation against members of Ms. Hasinas party, the Awami League, and against those seen as her allies, including the Hindu minority.

In addition to the partys offices and the homes of its members, the rioters targeted Hindus, torching their homes and vandalizing temples, according to witnesses and local media. Fears of more attacks were amplified in the absence of a government and with law enforcement retreating from sight in many parts of the country.

In addition to the almost 300 people killed during the government crackdown, at least 60 were killed in the violence that erupted on Monday in Muslim-majority Bangladesh. Reliable details about the attackers and victims were not immediately available.
The U.S. and British ambassadors to Japan said on Wednesday they would not attend Nagasakis annual peace memorial ceremony this week, which marks the day the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the city, because Israel had not been invited.

Among the invitees to the ceremony on Aug. 9, the 79th anniversary of the atomic bomb attack that laid waste to the city, were dignitaries from more than 150 countries and territories. Since 2022, Russia and Belarus have been left off the list because of their invasion of Ukraine.

This year, Israel was omitted as well. The American and British ambassadors said the Nagasaki mayors decision not to invite Israel wrongly equated the countrys war against Hamas in Gaza with Russia and Belaruss actions.

Russias invasion of Ukraine and Israels self-defense is not morally equivalent, Rahm Emanuel, the U.S. ambassador to Japan, said in an emailed statement.
The party was dismissed by the establishment as too liberal, too radical, even revolutionary. But it scored a stunning victory in Thailands election last year, as millions of voters delivered a rebuke to the countrys monarchy, its military and its moneyed elite.

The old guard reacted swiftly, moving to crush its most formidable challenger in decades. Conservative politicians prevented the Move Forward Partys leader from becoming prime minister and engineered a coalition that kept the party out of power.

On Wednesday, their quest to reverse the election results seemed complete: Move Forward was disbanded by Thailands Constitutional Court over charges that the partys proposals to water down a stringent royal defamation law were an attempt to overthrow the monarchy. The nine-member court in Bangkok ruled unanimously.

It also barred from politics for a decade nearly a dozen party operatives, including Pita Limjaroenrat, its former leader, and four other elected members. The other 140 or so Move Forward members of Parliament were given two months to join another party. They are expected to remain the core of the opposition in the 500-seat legislature.
The biggest East-West prisoner exchange since the Cold War last week was hailed as a triumph by both Washington and Moscow. But it left the family and friends of a jailed Nobel Prize winner and other imprisoned opponents of President Aleksandr G. Lukashenko, the longtime dictator of Belarus, puzzled and bitterly disappointed.

Belarus was involved in the swap, releasing a German citizen who had been sentenced to death, but it freed none of its nearly 1,400 inmates classified as political prisoners by Viasna, a human rights organization, as Russia did.

We are very saddened that not a single Belarusian was released, said Alena Masliukova, an activist with Viasna. She added that Belarus has more political prisoners than Russia: 1,400 in Belarus compared to 700 in Russia, but unlike Russia has faced little sustained pressure to set its prisoners free.

That may be because Belarus, which has fewer than 10 million people and has been led since 1994 by Mr. Lukashenko, is widely viewed as an eccentric Russian puppet state and, despite a sustained reign of terror, commands little attention in its own right.
Thousands of police officers fanned out across Britain on Wednesday amid fears that protests planned by far-right groups would descend into fresh violence after days of anti-immigrant riots shocked the country. But by late evening, large anti-immigration protests had not materialized and only a handful of arrests had been made.

Instead, thousands of antiracism protesters gathered in cities across the country, including Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool and London. Some of those demonstrations were close to places that had been identified as potential targets for rioters. And as the summer evening that many had feared could turn violent made way for the night, many expressed relief that the worries of wide-scale violence had not been realized.

More than a dozen towns and cities across Britain experienced violent unrest over the past week, fueled in part by far-right agitators and an online disinformation campaign intent on creating disorder after a deadly knife attack on a childrens dance class in northwestern England. Much of the misinformation after the attack in Southport claimed that the teenage suspect  who was born in Britain  was an asylum seeker.

The BBC has reported that the suspects parents were from Rwanda. The police have not disclosed a motive for the stabbing attack. Britain has very tight restrictions on what can be reported once a case is underway.
Ukraine has launched a surprise ground assault into Russia with troops and armored vehicles, Russian officials and independent military analysts said on Wednesday, in what could be one of the largest Ukrainian incursions onto Russian soil in more than two years of war.

The assault, which began on Tuesday in the Kursk region of western Russia, has resulted in heavy fighting, according to images from the battlefield verified by independent military analysts and Russian statements.

Videos verified by The New York Times showed armored vehicles being struck several miles inside Russia, and Moscow said it had rushed troops and fighter jets to respond. Gen. Valery V. Gerasimov, the commander of Russian forces fighting in Ukraine, said the advance of Ukrainian troops had been halted on Wednesday evening, while pro-Kremlin military bloggers said Ukrainian forces had captured several settlements near the border.

Alarming news is coming from the Kursk region for the second day, Igor Artamonov, the governor of the Russian region of Lipetsk, which borders the Kursk region, said on Wednesday. The Kyiv regime is attacking our borders.
Arab and Western countries, seeking to head off a major regional conflict in the Middle East, are urging Iran to show restraint after it vowed to attack Israel in retaliation for the killing of Hamass political leader in Tehran last week.

The diplomatic push by Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, which have close ties to Washington, came as the United States, France and other countries have also been trying to lower tensions in the Middle East and renew stalled efforts to achieve a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip.

Anxiety across the region has been running high since an explosion in Tehran  widely attributed to Israel  killed Hamass political chief, Ismail Haniyeh, on July 31, just hours after an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon killed a top Hezbollah commander, Fuad Shukr.

Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon have vowed to retaliate for both killings. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has promised, in turn, to exact a heavy price for any act of aggression against us, from whatever quarter.
All government agencies and offices were closed Wednesday in Tehran, and in 13 provinces, including some along the western and eastern borders, hours for government offices were limited to 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Iran also issued a notice to civilian aviation, warning that gunfire will take place for several hours on Wednesday night and into Thursday over parts of the country.

As Iran prepares to follow through on its vow to severely punish Israel over the assassination of the Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, it is raising war jitters among the public. Yet there were few, if any, signs on the streets of Tehran and other cities that a conflict may be looming.

The government said that the shutdown on Wednesday occurred merely because of extreme heat (the temperature in Tehran was expected to reach 108 on Wednesday) and that the closings of airspace were for military exercises.
For months, Erez Bergman had been working to encourage the evacuated residents of northern Israel, near the border with Lebanon, to return to their homes, with the hope that children could return to their schools this fall and residents could fix up the damage wrought by Hezbollahs missiles and drones.

Like 80,000 other Israelis from the north, Mr. Bergman, 51, his wife, Maya, and their three school-age children left their house in Kibbutz Snir last October, after the Israeli government decided to distance residents from the northern border  the first such mass evacuation of the area in Israels history.

Following the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks and Israels bombardment of Gaza, Hezbollah was firing rockets into northern Israel and the Israeli military was hitting back, leading to months of tit-for-tat attacks that hit villages and towns in both southern Lebanon and northern Israel.

In April, the Bergmans decided to return to Snir, a cooperative village in the picturesque Galilee Panhandle, a finger of Israeli territory that juts upward along the border. But in late July they had to leave again  for how long this time, they dont know  as tensions between Israel and Hezbollah reached their highest level in months. Mr. Bergman and other northern residents now say they feel as if they may be looking at another lost year.
The four-person crew from Box to Box Films, the production company responsible for the hit Netflix motorsports docuseries Formula 1: Drive to Survive, has often shot in lavish settings like Monaco and Miami.

But one recent morning, it congregated in a far less glamorous spot: a set of flimsy bleachers next to a running track in the Paris suburb of Eaubonne, where it waited about an hour for a practice session to begin.

This is our life, Warren Smith, a top executive at Box to Box, said of the waiting. It could have been worse: Across town, a second crew was filming a runner having a haircut.

The footage from France will eventually be part of the second season of Sprint, a Netflix documentary following the American 100-meter stars ShaCarri Richardson and Noah Lyles and a dozen or so other track athletes.
After days of violent rioting set off by disinformation around a deadly stabbing rampage, the authorities in Britain had been bracing for more unrest on Wednesday. But by nightfall, large-scale anti-immigration demonstrations had not materialized, and only a few arrests had been made nationwide.

Instead, streets in cities across the country were filled with thousands of antiracism protesters, including in Liverpool, where by late evening, the counterdemonstration had taken on an almost celebratory tone.

Over the weekend, the anti-immigration protests, organized by far-right groups, had devolved into violence in more than a dozen towns and cities. And with messages on social media calling for wider protests and counterprotests on Wednesday, the British authorities were on high alert.

With tensions running high, Prime Minister Keir Starmers cabinet held emergency meetings to discuss what has become the first crisis of his recently elected government. Some 6,000 specialist public-order police officers were mobilized nationwide to respond to any disorder, and the authorities in several cities and towns stepped up patrols.


MI State Wants to Tout Economic Impact Thu., Oct. 3, 2024 Michigan State University wants bids from PR and communications firms to promote its University Research Corridor alliance with the University of Michigan and Wayne State University.
THE launch of annual Open Submission exhibition of Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival Visual Arts Trail took place at The Max on Main Street on Friday evening.

The event marks the start of the annual Vintage festival and as such usually attracts a large and enthusiastic crowd and this year was no different.

The theme of the Open Submission exhibition this year is 'A Place in only a Place?' and is curated by Rowena Keaveny.

Over 50 works of art were on display in the venue, which proved to be an ideal choice for the exhibition. It is a large space and allowed plenty of room for all the exhibits to be displayed. Those works of art came from a variety of local and visiting artists and the quality of the work impressed those who attended the launch on Friday evening.

Chair of the Festival Committee and Visual Arts Co-ordinator, Caroline Conway welcomed everyone to a beautiful venue for the Open Submission exhibition for the launch of the Arts Trail. We had a lot of people doing a lot of scrubbing and now it looks like a gallery, she added.

I would like to thank all the people who make Vintage Week happen year on year on year, all the sponsors around the town, our public funders, the volunteers  and we have a volunteer manager this year, Rachel Alexander - all doing a fantastic job. Our committee also works so hard to get everything ready, she said.

This is a beautiful exhibition, curated by Rowena, and I think we have some really lovely work in here and we hope that you might buy some as it's very reasonably priced. We have all the local artists and also artists from all over the country.

Caroline also pointed out the absolutely fabulous model of Oxmantown Mall, made by Oxmantown National School, which is displayed at the back on the venue and which drew a lot of praise.

Caroline noted that as well as the launch of Open Submission exhibition, it was also the launch of the Arts Trail and she invited those present to go and visit some of the other venues afterwards.

Next door in Mary's Flowers we have some of our local artists, a few doors down in Jerro's we have the Press Photographers Association and upstairs we have Birr Art Group. We have here tonight from the PPAI Brenda Fitzsimons, a former president and Photographer of the Year and former picture editor of the Irish Times and she will be in the venue in Jerros to say a few words, said Caroline.

She also said that Birr Lions Club are doing an art auction and they had a preview that evening in Hoctor Smyth. The auction will take place in Craughwells on Friday September 27th with proceeds going to October Breast Cancer Awareness Month and November Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

The Arts Trail launch finished at the old cinema where our friends from Longford, Steph and Kevin Hanlon, will be there with an amazing installation, which is entitled 'Underwater World'.

Concluding Caroline said in this Open Submission we have a prize for a solo show for the following year, so 2025, and we would like to award this to Louise Reid and we would like to give a Highly Commended to Chritina Hall.

Rowena Keaveny said she would like to say Thank you to Caroline and Vintage Week for asking me to curate this year's Open Submission exhibition. I have worked on the Open Submission for the last nine years and curated for eight years across five venues, featuring hundreds of artists and thousands of art works.

What I love about the Open Submission exhibition is that it is an opportunity for artists of various ages or stages of their career to come together, from artists beginning their career to older more established artists, to those returning after taking a break or those taking up a new activity later in life.There is space for all of them. This year's theme is 'place' and the variety of work is a diverse showcase of what makes the place important, be that natural, personal or structural.

As Caroline said, exhibitions and indeed festivals, require many hands to bring them together. Over the year I got a lot of help and support, she said and thanked all those who had helped out in making the exhibition possible.

Finally I would like to dedicate tonight's launch to art Frankie Gallagher and to let Dympna know that we are thinking of her, said Rowena, remembering the Birr artist whose art work featured in exhibitions in Vintage Week for many years and who sadly passed away in recent months.
Plans to use the newly built community nursing home in Nenagh as a step-down facility to ease congestion at University Hospital Limerick (UHL) will be in place for one year, a Tipperary TD told this newspaper.

Tipperary Independent Deputy, Michael Lowry told the Tribune that he has had discussions with Senior Executives in the HSE to establish the factual position regarding the new Nenagh Community Nursing Home.

"It has been confirmed to me that Bartra Healthcare has been awarded the contract. This operator has experience in running several Nursing Units, including a similar facility, namely Beaumont House, in Dublin.

"Beaumont Lodge is a 220-bed sub-acute Transitional Care Unit. All the main Hospitals in Dublin successfully use this Unit as a step-down progressive care facility", Deputy Lowry said.

"The Nenagh Unit is contracted to Bartra Healthcare for one year only. A Consultant-led team of Doctors, Nurses, and Therapists will be on site.

"The facility will be run as a Community Step-Down Rehab and will support the clinical needs of those transferred from UHL. North Tipperary patients will benefit from this facility and will be prioritised for admission to the unit.

"The commencement date for the transfer of the first patients is the middle of this month (August) and the Unit will then transfer back to its original purpose as a Community Nursing Home, with the transfer of patients from St. Conlons in September 2025", Deputy Lowry said.

"This decision was understandably greeted with disappointment by the patients and staff at St.Conlons. The decision was taken at the most senior level of Management at the HSE, supported by the Minister for Health.

"It was taken in the context of the appalling overcrowding and unacceptable conditions at University Hospital Limerick", Deputy Lowry said.

Meanwhile, extended opening hours for Nenagh Medical Assessment Unit were also announced by Deputy Lowry last week.

"On the 22nd of July, I announced that the HSE was taking a policy initiative to expand the opening hours of the Medical Assessment Unit at Nenagh Hospital. This policy has now been developed and will become a reality", he told this newspaper.

"As you are aware I have always placed a huge political priority on developing and expanding the services at Nenagh Hospital. It is vital that we continue to invest in infrastructure and personnel so that the hospital remains a central element in delivery of health care across North Tipperary.

"I continually work to ensure that the hospital is not allowed to lag behind. You will also be aware of the extremely serious issues at UHL with appalling overcrowding and less than satisfactory patient management.

"This impacts negatively on patients from North Tipperary. In an effort to address this situation a special task force recommended several measures to ease the pressure on UHL.

"One such measure is extended opening times for the medical assessment unit at Nenagh. This unit currently operates from 8am to 8pm. The opening hours will now be extended each day from 8am to 12-midnight", he confirmed.

"The service model for this initiative and its funding was approved by the HSE Chief Executive. The new model of functioning has been agreed.

"Obviously the additional hours and workload had to be evaluated for its impact on staffing levels. It is deemed essential to create and fund 30 additional full time staff to efficiently run the unit.

"Additional multi-disciplinary staff is approved with funding. It incorporates new posts for Consultant Radiologists, Registrars, Radiographers, Medical Scientists, Staff Nurses, Healthcare Assistants.

"The cost for these additional human resources is an additional 2.874-million per year", he said.

"Having received this sanction the HSE is now in a position to engage with the Unions representing the existing workforce to work out an implementation plan. An invitation has been extended to the Unions to commence discussions. An important element of this negotiation is to agree an acceptable rostering schedule for existing workforce and new recruits.

"This Medical Assessment Unit open from 8am to 12 midnight will treat patients referred by their GPs, out of hours service and injury units. The unit will treat a variety of medical complaints.

"Those attending the units will be reviewed by a senior clinician and may require blood test, x-rays, scans or further diagnostic treatment. Instead of going direct to UHL and languishing in waiting rooms or on trollies patients from North Tipperary can be medically accessed at Nenagh Hospital and only referred to UHL if deemed medically necessary.

"I would like to thank and record our appreciation to the management and staff at Nenagh Hospital for the excellence of their care and attention to patients attending the hospital", Deputy Lowry said.
A design for a new building to become one of the most significant aspects of the redevelopment of Roscrea's Gantly Street by an architect originally from Roscrea will soon become a reality.

Claire McManus, daughter of retired Doctor, George McManus and Libby (RIP) from Parkmore in Roscrea, now works for an architect firm in Dublin and designed a building which will soon be a centre piece in the redesign of a piece of dormant land in the heart of the town on Gantly Road.

Gantly Road itself is planned to receive a complete upgrade and become a fully fledged street replete with housing, retail outlets and public amenities.

In late 2022 the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI), in association with the Department of Housing, announced their first ever design competition for architects, for a new social housing development in the middle of four different Irish towns.

The competition, open to all architects, sought to deliver an exemplary winning design that would celebrate housing delivery within our town centres.

They invited every Local Authority to submit sites they considered would be suitable. Tipperary County Council sent in two sites, one in Tipperary Town and one in Roscrea.

Both were infill sites in the heart of the town that it was considered would greatly invigorate the town itself if they were developed. But up against every other Local Authority, Tipperary County Council remained hopeful rather than expectant.

The competition was officially launched at the RIAI offices in Dublin by the Minister of Housing, Darragh OBrien, on January 27th 2023. At the launch, after submissions from every Local Authority were reviewed, the four winning sites were announced. The four were in Sligo Town in Sligo, in Castleblaney in Monaghan, in Kildare Town in Kildare and the Tipperary site at Gantly Road in Roscrea.

Pictured above is a bird's eye view of the piece of land at the junction of Gantly Road and Chapel Lane where the building will be located

Up against every other County Council it was a great achievement for Roscrea to be selected as one of the winning four sites.

The RIAI advertised the Town Centre Living competition for the four sites in February design proposals were received from all of the main architects in Ireland and some from the U.K. 28 architectural practices submitted an entry for the Gantly Road site.

The competition brief was to provide 14-18 new housing units and a community facility that would be suitable for town centre living in an innovative design that would greatly enhance this prominent site in Roscrea.

All of the entries were assessed by 3 independent judges over two days in April 2023. The judges were very impressed with the range and quality of proposals that were put forward for what is a challenging site in the town.

They felt that the range of approaches demonstrated that it is possible to design medium density, low rise housing in the middle of a town that not only create homes and neighbourhoods that are desirable places to live, but also create good urban and landscaped spaces that reinvigorate the town itself.

In the end they unanimously decided that the winning design was 'Learning from Roscrea' by JFOC Architects in Dublin. On the announcement of the winners a lovely link between the design and the town emerged when it was discovered that one of the directors of JFOC, Claire McManus, is originally a native of Roscrea.

The scheme is now to go through the Department of Housing approval process and planning and it is hoped that construction will begin in early 2025.

The RIAI have now given all of the 28 original entries for the competition to Tipperary County Council to put on display in the town. This will initially take place in venues, the Shopping Centre from Monday August 26th to Monday September 16th and the Library from Tuesday September 17th to Monday October 7th.

It is amazing to see the variety of wonderful design solutions, by many of the top architects in Ireland and the U.K., for the same piece of ground in Roscrea. Everybody is invited to visit this unique Roscrea Exhibition.
An accidental Code Red emergency alert interrupted the first day of classes at Orange County High School Wednesday.

The Orange County Sheriffs Office said it was dispatched to a Code Red activation at the high school around 11:30 a.m.

As soon as it was activated, the Orange County Sheriffs Office had a rapid response with a large number of law enforcement officers, Lt. Becky Jones with the sheriffs office told The Daily Progress via email.

Jones said there were already two school resource officers to assist on grounds at the high school at the time of the activation.

We cleared the entire school as well as every other building on the property, she said. We were able to determine that it was an accidental activation rather quickly and normal school activity was resumed.

Jones said that local law enforcement completed active shooter response training just weeks ago and within the past week trained more than 820 Orange County Public Schools staff in Code Red procedures.

The safety of the students and staff is always our top priority, she said. With Law Enforcement and the school system working together, we strive to provide the safest environment for students to learn.
The long-delayed case of the woman who admitted to killing Charlottesville author and arts promoter Matthew Farrell moved one step closer to a resolution Monday as her defense team promised a final delay.

Nearly six months after learning that Shawna Murphy was declared sufficiently competent to stand trial and nearly two years after Farrells killing, her defense team asked the court for one more month to consider the case after a new psychiatric report arrived Friday.

Were still digesting, said defense lawyer Nicholas Reppucci.

Reppucci, who recently took the helm of the local public defenders office, seemed to acknowledge that his office was testing the judges patience by requesting an additional status hearing in such a long-running case.

One last status, promised Reppucci.

Prosecutor Holly Vradenburgh did not object, and Judge Areshini Pather approved.

Court documents paint a grim picture leading up to the Oct. 25, 2022, discovery of Farrells body in his residence in the 2100 block of Stony Point Road in Albemarle County just northeast of the city.

Police said that Murphy called 911 to report that she had just shot the 53-year-old Farrell. While Murphy told first responders that Farrell was trying to kill her, physical evidence showed instead that Farrell had been killed in bed with a single gunshot to the back of his head.

Signs that Murphy was not mentally well were evident immediately. For starters, she had been found livestreaming when officers responded, and at least one of her social media posts seemed to presage the crime.

I got an A in Acting 1 in college for performing this scene, Murphy wrote atop a movie clip she publicly posted on Facebook roughly 28 hours before calling 911.

It was a scene from the 1996 film Freeway, in which Reese Witherspoons character kills Kiefer Sutherlands character with a gunshot to the back of the head.

On the face of it, it looks really bad, veteran criminal defense attorney Scott Goodman told The Daily Progress.

That is why, Goodman said, Murphys lawyers are doing their best to explore mental health defenses. The report received Friday is sealed from public view, but it would contain information about Murphys sanity at the time of the killing, according to discussions in Albemarle Juvenile & Domestic Relations court where the case has been heard.

In a homicide, these are the kinds of defenses that an attorney has to explore, said Goodman. He wants to be able to present the best possible argument to the commonwealth as to why they should see things his way, that this is something other than an intentional killing, a murder.

After her arrest on a charge of second degree murder, Murphy called The Daily Progress to allege that more than a dozen women had been buried on Farrells property. No such evidence has emerged. Without seeing the latest report, Goodman said, he cant predict whether an insanity defense is an option.

Unlike some earlier court appearances in which Murphy would slump in her chair and stare downward, she sat erect Monday in her shackles and the red jumpsuit that is the womens uniform at the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail. Murphy, now 40, returned to this jail in February after about a year of in-patient treatment at Western State Hospital, a public mental facility in Staunton.

As for Farrell, he found fame in the early 1990s by launching Lets Get Lost, the Charlottesville areas first show on public access television, a cable channel reserved for local creativity. Farrell offered a curated view of visual and literary artists plus musicians including a then-fledgling musical group that would eventually achieve international success, the Dave Matthews Band. Farrell later wrote an epic poem and a pair of novels while running a small publishing house, before he retreated from public view around the turn of the century.

Property records show that Farrell purchased his Albemarle County house in late 2005. Friends say that after developing a relationship with Murphy, he let her live with him but came to regret the arrangement.

Farrell had asked me a few times to help him find a place for Shawna to live, as he didnt want her to be homeless, friend Jamie Dyer told The Progress. Its my lifes regret that I was in the midst of my own personal chaos and wasnt able to hear him or help him.

Whats promised to be Murphys final status hearing is slated for Sept. 16.


Thales of Miletis

(Image by Public Domain) Details DMCA



Up-and-coming philosopher Philip Goff, a professor at Durham University in the UK, relatively recently opened his regular podcast, Mind Chat, with the proclamation, "I'm a philosopher who believes consciousness pervades the universe and is a fundamental feature of it." Joining him were regular adversary Keith Frankish, and special guest Noam Chomsky to discuss the merits of Goff's "new" take on consciousness. Oxford University Press has just released Why? The Purpose of the Universe, Goff's new work in which he champions the panpsychism that he opens his podcasts with.

Goff readily acknowledges that panpsychism is not new; its seed notions can be traced back to ancient thinkers, such as Thales and Plato. However, what makes Goff's arguments seem fresh are his claims that panpsychism has findings of science on its side; explanations from physics not just metaphysics, which makes his assertions seem more like Aristotle's daydreams. His new book Why? attempts to reanimate if not a dead God-in-the-world, then to execute a Voltairean need to reinvent a new god, and a new teleological marriage between science and metaphysics.

The modern notion of so-called emergent property dualism is derived from the cosmology of ancient thinkers -- most notably from the fragments of Thales of Miletus and the Phaedo of Plato. Aristotle also pitches in by providing authoritative thinking in support of some of Thales's cosmological explorations, especially his consideration of water as a primordial substance, for which there is some historical discussion. But it is the idea that "All things are full of gods" -- Thales allegedly said -- which if true and convincingly attributable to Thales would be more profound than his water cosmology, which has leaks, let's say. And in Plato's Phaedo, Socrates, on the day of his execution, discusses a variety of philosophical topics with his friends, including the immortality of the soul.

In one passage, Socrates discusses the idea that the soul is simple and indivisible. He argues that this makes it more likely that the soul is immortal, since something that is simple and indivisible cannot be easily destroyed. Socrates also argues that the soul is self-moving. He argues that this means that the soul is independent of the body and does not need the body to exist. This needs a closer examination.

"All things are full of Gods." - Thales

Early physics and metaphysics drifted apart and later ended up as the Mind-Body problem that still plagues thinkers today. While no attempt will be made to fully explore modern panpsychism or Goff's proclamation about a universe pervaded by consciousness, the connection to the past is vital, if for no other reason that it demonstrates the enduring qualitative inferences of the ancients in our modern think-frames. The reader is urged to check out Goff's podcast with Chomsky on the subject, which I've embedded below.

First, a short description of emergent property dualism is in order; it will help guide the cosmological vision as we go back to Thales and Plato. Emergent property dualism is a philosophical position that seeks to reconcile the mind-body problem by combining the ideas of emergent properties and property dualism. Property dualism is the view that mental properties are distinct from physical properties.

The property of consciousness is a mental property, for instance, but the property of mass is a physical property. Such mental properties are emergent properties of physical systems, such as the brain. In other words, mental properties arise from the interaction of physical parts, but they are not reducible to those parts. At the same time, such dualism can lead to a situation where mental properties can cause physical properties.

For example, the mental property of wanting to raise your arm can cause the physical property of your arm moving. This is because wanting to raise your arm is an emergent property of your brain, and it has a causal effect on the physical systems in your brain that control arm movement. This effect can be seen in action using a brain-computer interface (BCI), such as at BCI company Synchron, where a paraplegic hooked up to the BCI was able to operate a computer by merely thinking instructions to it (by way of a Bluetooth decoder). This new phenomenon of decoding brain activity by means of a device that "translates" instructions to a PC and then runs the thoughts of the person, resulting in Internet browsing, is part of a relatively new field called Information Philosophy. The site tells us, "Abstract information is neither matter nor energy, yet it needs matter for its concrete embodiment and energy for its communication. Information is immaterial. It is the modern spirit, the ghost in the machine." This has profound implications for understanding concepts going back to Plato's seed notion about the soul and immaterialism espoused in Phaedo. Indeed, we can see it, if we let ourselves do so, in Thales.

"Abstract information is neither matter nor energy, yet it needs matter for its concrete embodiment and energy for its communication. Information is immaterial. It is the modern spirit, the ghost in the machine."

Thales of Miletus, one of the most famous pre-Socratic philosophers, is often credited with being the first Western philosopher and scientist. He is also considered to be one of the earliest proponents of panpsychism. Thales is credited with having quipped that "All things are full of gods." He believed that the fundamental substance of the universe is water. He argued that water is the source of all life and that it has a soul. He also believed that the soul is present in all things, even inanimate objects. But his work comes down to us in fragments and by referenc e from other thinkers, most notably, Aristotle (Metaphysics and On the Soul) and Diogenes Laertius; Thales wrote nothing down himself.

In evaluating the proposition "All things are full of gods," the modern reader meets up with some obstacles immediately. Gods. Any god, today, is problematic, in an age so markedly different from that of homo religiosus, during which gods were arguably in everything. Our knowledge of Thales's philosophy are "doxographical" references to fragments and flattering accounts by other philosophers, such as Diogenes Laertes, who was criticized for his lack of reliable sourcing. So, though his proposition is perhaps as tantalizing as, say, Heraclitus's oft-quoted fragment about flux, "Upon those who step into the same rivers, different and again different waters flow." It's a nice little nugget to ponder, not only as an abstract notion, but thinking also off Mark Twain's very real description of his river boat piloting years, as revealed in Life on the Mississippi, where the ever-changing river is almost hallucinatorily treacherous. If anyone knew about the One and Many, Mark Twain did. But, if Thales's little cosmological statement had been attributed to anyone else of his age, it might have gone missing.

Thales was one of the Seven Sages, mental legends of the ancient world, who is often credited with being the first Western philosopher and scientist. He has to be taken seriously, even if with a grain of NaCl. Aristotle seems to have at least seriously considered Thales's notable contribution to cosmology. As Thales saw it, the fundamental substance of the universe is water. He argued that water is the source of all life and that it has a soul. He also believed that the soul is present in all things, even inanimate objects.

What little information we have is largely due to Aristotle's respectful analysis of Thales's findings in Metaphysics and On the Soul. In Metaphysics we find:

Thales, the founder of this kind of philosophy, stated it to be water. (This is why he declared that the earth rests on water.) He may have got this idea from seeing that the nourishment of all things is moist, and that even the hot itself comes to be from this and lives on this (the principle of all things is that from which they come to be) -- getting this idea from this consideration and also because the seeds of all things have a moist nature; and water is the principle of the nature of moist things.

This principle is not alien to our way of thinking today at all. For when we bios probe the night skies in every direction we are searching for life out there, which is to say, we are searching for signs of planetary or other rocky outcrops that contain water, the one substance we know must be present for life to exist and evolve.

But this is another question from whether consciousness can emerge from inanimate objects or subjects not biological in nature, which is what some current theories that reach back to the ancients, including panpsychism, and perhaps Thales's alleged vision that "All things are full of gods." Aristotle, as noted above, lent credibility to the supposed utterances of the Sage Thales. Like Thales, Aristotle was especially remarkable for his pursuit of truth in the natural sciences. He was a keen observer of the natural world and conducted extensive empirical research, which he used to develop a broad and systematic understanding of natural phenomena. Aristotle's work is said to have laid the foundation for many branches of science, including biology, physics, astronomy, and meteorology. In Metaphysics, Aristotle writes,

Most of the first philosophers, then, thought that the only principles of all things were material. For, they say, there is some [subject] that all beings come from, the first thing they come to be from and the last thing they perish into, the substance remaining throughout but changing in respect of its attributes. This, they say, is the element and the principle of beings.

Thales would be such a first philosopher. But Aristotle cannot, through his own revered reputation, save the ideas of Thales. Nevertheless, today the conservation of matter tells us that it can neither be created nor destroyed, suggesting at least an affinity to the notions that the first philosophers proposed with the "principles of beings."

This is also a meet spot to transition into Plato's Phaedo, where the student has his teacher, Socrates, tell his fellow philosopher friends about the immortality of the soul as he prepares to shed his 'mortal coil'. He hopes to offer them consolation. "It really has been shown to us that, if we are ever to have pure knowledge, we must escape from the body and observe things in themselves with the soul by itself," he tells them. If the soul dies with the body, then whence the long journey toward truth. Socrates tells them the soul sheds the myriad hindrances and binds of the body that, while alive, have worked against the attainment of wisdom. But, he insists, that the soul goes on with its journey.

This is news to his buddies, as they have not heard him speak this way before and their wits need spruiking. Cebes doubts; he tells Socrates, "To believe this requires a good deal of faith and persuasive argument, to believe that the soul still exists after a man has died and that it still possesses some capability and intelligence." Plato's Socrates has his work cut out for him. Socrates will argue that "the one aim of those who practice philosophy in the proper manner is to practice for dying and death." (p. 269) Assuming materiality has been shed, as if a lifetime were a purgatorial experience, the soul will exit the body-form and commune again with the thing-in-itself Forms.

Socrates goes further with Cebes and indicates that all things that exist have souls and that the bodies the are encased in are mere forms, and life emerges out of death:

Do not, he said, confine yourself to humanity if you want to understand this more readily, but take all animals and all plants into account, and, in short, for [e] all things which come to be, let us see whether they come to be in this way, that is, from their opposites if they have such, as the beautiful is the opposite of the ugly and the just of the unjust, and a thousand other things of the kind.

Socrates' notion of opposites is then explained -- in my opinion, not effectively or convincingly for modern purposes. But it is telling that Plato (Socrates) sees soul in everything; it is his archai. Questions remain: Can such a soul be held responsible for consciousness? Can such consciousness be equated to what Socrates is referring to as intelligence? And he tells Simmias, now intrigued, "our souls also existed apart from the body before they took on human form, and they had intelligence."

So, for Plato-in-Socrates clothing soul is in everything, exists before a form is taken on in existence (not necessarily bio), and has what he calls "intelligence." Germaine to any future ideation of emergent human consciousness is how Plato closes out Phaedo with a discussion of his concept of Mind. For Plato it is seen as a consideration of a notion Anaxagoras has been playing with, which Socrates sums up: "it is Mind that directs and is the cause of everything. I was delighted with this cause, and it seemed to me good, in a way, that Mind should be the cause of all."

Socrates is a happy puppy until goes on reading Anaxagoras' work and finds that, according to the philosopher, "that the man made no use of Mind, nor {134} gave it any responsibility for the management of [c] things, but mentioned as causes air and ether and water and many other strange things." This struck me as sounding very much like contemporary dualistic theories that grudgingly accept the mind as an epiphenomenon while pushing for neurochemically based reality. Plato is not satisfied with Anaxagoras' duality:

That seemed to me much like saying that Socrates' actions are all due to his mind, and then in trying to tell the causes of everything I do, to say that the reason that I am sitting here is because my body consists of bones and sinews, because the bones are hard and are separated by joints, that the sinews are such as to contract and [d] relax, that they surround the bones along with flesh and skin which hold them together, then as the bones are hanging in their sockets, the relaxation and contraction of the sinews enable me to bend my limbs, and that is the cause of my sitting here with my limbs bent.

Panpsychists, like Philip Goff, are equally frustrated with such mind-body equations. In the introduction to the Miller and Reeve edition of Phaedo the editors caution the reader about Plato's intentions. We're told,

Plato seems to take particular pains to indicate that Phaedo does not give us Socrates' actual last conversation or even one that fits at all closely his actual views. He takes care to tell us that he was not present on the last day.

Plato uses Socrates as a kind of doll house character to act out some of his own queries about human affinities that the editors say of: "Phaedo's affinities in philosophical theory go not towards the Socratic dialogues, but to Symposium and Republic." This strikes this reader as jarring, as the play-acting Socrates and his didactics are at odds with the natural language of his dialogues, and this presentation reminds one that Socrates, as we get to know him through Plato, is a product of Plato's calculating imagination. On the other hand, such a staging does not really affect the thinking that goes into a consideration of Forms; it merely suggests that Plato seems to be investing authority into the considerations by placing them in the mouth (and mind) of Socrates.

It may not seem intuitively coherent at first, the ancients, such as Thales, Aristotle and Plato, do seem to be working on the same desire for cosmological convergence that we seek today in such pursuits as the Unified Theory of Everything. Brown University physics professor Stephon Alexander, a panpsychist who backs his theories with scientific evidence, sees an affinity with the ancient wisemen. In his latest book, Fear of a Black Universe (2021), he writes,

Schrodinger was especially influenced by the work of German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer and the Vedas, which posited the existence of a universal mind that contains all individual minds and the physical universe. Combining those with his own work, Schrodinger imagined the quantum wave function to be part of an undivided cosmic whole.

This is the meat and potatoes of a panpsychist entanglement. Alexander adds,

Did life emerge in the cosmos through a series of accidental historical events? Is there a deeper principle beyond natural selection at work that is encoded in the structure of physical law? And on top of that, the question that bothered Schrodinger and that got me into science in the first place: What is the relationship between consciousness and the fabric of the universe?

Great questions that point to the endless human quest for meaning and our place in the cosmos.

#####

More:

References to the ancients above come Introductory Readings in Ancient Greek and Roman Philosophy, Second Edition, edited by CDC Reeve and Patrick Lee Miller, Indianpolis: Hackett Publishing (2015)
Although the current U.S. presidential campaign has focused almost entirely on domestic issues, Americans live on a planet engulfed in horrific wars, an escalating arms race, and repeated threats of nuclear annihilation. Amid this dangerous reality, shouldn't we give some thought to how to build a more peaceful future?

Back in 1945, toward the end of the most devastating war in history, the world's badly battered nations, many of them in smoldering ruins, agreed to create the United Nations, with a mandate to "maintain international peace and security".

It was not only a relevant idea, but one that seemed to have a lot of potential. The new UN General Assembly would provide membership and a voice for the world's far-flung nations, while the new UN Security Council would assume the responsibility for enforcing peace. Furthermore, the venerable International Court of Justice (better known as the World Court) would issue judgments on disputes among nations. And the International Criminal Court-- created as an afterthought nearly four decades later-- would try individuals for crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression. It almost seemed as if a chaotic, ungovernable, and bloodthirsty pack of feuding nations had finally evolved into the long-standing dream of "One World".

But, as things turned out, the celebration was premature.

The good news is that, in some ways, the new arrangement for global governance actually worked. UN action did, at times, prevent or end wars, reduce international conflict, and provide a forum for discussion and action by the world community. Thanks to UN decolonization policies, nearly all colonized peoples emerged from imperial subjugation to form new nations, assisted by international aid for economic and social development. A Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948, set vastly-improved human rights standards for people around the world. UN entities swung into action to address new global challenges in connection with public health, poverty, and climate change.

Even so, despite the benefits produced by the United Nations, this pioneering international organization sometimes fell short of expectations, particularly when it came to securing peace. Tragically, much international conflict persisted, bringing with it costly arms races, devastating wars, and massive destruction. To some degree, this persistent conflict reflected ancient hatreds that people proved unable to overcome and that unscrupulous demagogues worked successfully to inflame.

But there were also structural reasons for ongoing international conflict. In a world without effective enforcement of international law, large, powerful nations could continue to lord it over smaller, weaker nations. Thus, the rulers of these large, powerful nations (plus a portion of their citizenry) were often reluctant to surrender this privileged status.

Symptomatically, the five victorious great powers of 1945 (the United States, the Soviet Union, Britain, France, and China) insisted that their participation in the United Nations hinged upon their receiving permanent seats in the new UN Security Council, including a veto enabling them to block Security Council actions not to their liking. Over the ensuing decades, they used the veto hundreds of times to stymie UN efforts to maintain international peace and security.

Similarly, the nine nuclear nations (including these five great powers) refused to sign the 2017 Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which has been endorsed by the overwhelming majority of the world's nations. Behind their resistance to creating a nuclear weapons-free world lies a belief that there is much to lose by giving up the status and power that nuclear weapons afford them.

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By Robert Weiner and Tomas Alves

Rome wasn't built in a day and neither was NATO. In 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization had 12 founding members to which now has ballooned to include 32 nations. This alliance coalesced on the premise that, "would be aggressors know they attack one of us, they'll be attacked by all of us" -- NATO's Article 5 -- as emphasized by President Joe Biden in a closely watched Press Conference in July.

A new legacy in the Pacific will be set by the next President in their approach to China. In a world that has already witnessed the historic success of the NATO alliance to deter major adversaries, 2024 is the new 1949.

As a way to test the U.S.' resolve in the Pacific, China has engaged in an intimidation campaign against the region's actors to demonstrate that it is the dominant force in the Pacific. It has blatantly ignored the international law of the sea and has attacked freedom of navigation of other nation's militaries in protecting their internationally recognized territory claims. In devising a counter strategy, the U.S. must not look far to realize that a playbook of deterrence can only be executed with a Pacific parallel to NATO: a pan-Pacific defense alliance.

Of course, some of the landmark achievements of the West's allies in Asia in improving their posture against China have been the creation of minilateral or mini alliances. Frameworks that will stand as President Biden's legacy in the region. In distaste, China has already claimed that the Cold War dynamics of the past have been reintroduced with these arrangements. That there is a Pacific NATO in all but name only because of the presence of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), the United States-Japan-Republic of Korea Trilateral Partnership and the Australia-United Kingdom-United States Trilateral Partnership (AUKUS).

Despite these claims of a return of Cold War dynamics to the Pacific, President Biden, himself, acknowledged at a closely watched press conference that, "The Cold War is over. The post-war era is over."

Contrary to the dynamics of the Cold War, the possibility of a new pan-Pacific defense alliance would not include important dynamics found in the Cold War. Given the economic integration that each Pacific nation has with China, there bears no resemblance to the Cold War where all aspects of society were influenced by the United States or the Soviet Union.

Of China's massive trading capacity, they remain the top trading partner to Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore, comprising a quarter of Chinese exports. Warning of China's ulterior motives, President Biden stated that, "Xi believes that China is a large enough market that they can entice any country, including European countries, to invest there in return for commitments."

In a world that has never seen a collective defense alliance formed in opposition to its most important economic partner, this precedent should be broken.

Yet, cooperation might be the limit with the current mini alliances in the deterrence of China. These alliances may have integrated defense capabilities and enhanced communication between allies, as highlighted by Japanese Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, "to make our trilateral strategic collaboration blossom and bloom-- But they have not deterred Chinese aggression from attacking Philippine boats and initiating joint-military exercises with Russian Air and Naval forces.

In a plan to keep China in check, the United States can begin by joining together with its closest friends like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines to start a foundation of collective defense where it already exists. A strategy that uses the existing mini alliance approach of including a small number of countries and incorporates a gradual expansion plan that was used for the strengthening of NATO.

The more important and complicated step would be to gradually branch out this alliance to other countries looking to gain assurances against China. This would include a coalition like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Taiwan that would effectively keep China out of the South China Sea. If these nations gained formal defense assurances from a pan-Pacific defense alliance, it would be a major win for the U.S.' competition with China. Yet it is uncertain given each of these nations' complex relationships with the U.S. when that would happen.

To quote the words of one of the architects of NATO in 1949, President Harry S. Truman at the signing of the NATO Charter, "The unwillingness on the part of the free nations of the world..to oppose aggression was in large measure responsible for the two great wars of our time."

If the United States is to deter China's aggressive behavior they must undergo construction of a pan-Pacific alliance that starts with America's closest friends and branches out in order to deter China's aggression. For a world hinging on the outcome of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, the pan-Pacific defense alliance would be a bold strategy to prevent a third "great war". The Pacific Alliance needs to grow, and to have an equivalent to NATO's Article 5.





Robert Weiner was a spokesman in the Clinton and George W. Bush White Houses. He was communications director of the House Government Operations Committee, and senior aide to Congressman John Conyers and Charles Rangel, Reps. Claude Pepper and Ed Koch, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and Four-Star General/ Drug Czar Barry McCaffrey.

Tomas Alves is a policy analyst, research coordinator, and Op-Ed writer working at Robert Weiner Associates News and Solutions for Change. Tomas was also a Senior Staff Writer for The Highlander Newspaper at the University of California, Riverside.
This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here.

Be depressed, very depressed.

When you read today's piece by TomDispatch regular William Hartung and Hekmat Aboukhater, you'll be reminded that, in the Biden years, the U.S. military has continued to focus on what's all too strangely called the "modernization" of the American nuclear arsenal. Mind you, that program -- in a world where the present unmodernized arsenal could already end all life as we know it on this and undoubtedly several other planets -- is now estimated to cost the American taxpayer a mere $2 trillion dollars or so in the coming decades.

And that, by the way, is the good news. That's what's likely to happen if Donald Trump doesn't win the 2024 election. Should he indeed reenter the Oval Office, given what his backers at the Heritage Foundation and elsewhere are already proposing, you ain't seen nuthin' yet. A wounded ear? No, we're talking about the possibility of this whole planet going up in flames and smoke. His backers have, for instance, already made it clear that a new Trump administration would restart underground nuclear testing, ending a decades-old moratorium honored by the planet's major nuclear powers. In addition, under an "America first" banner, it would undoubtedly relaunch a global nuclear arms face-off that's long been in abeyance. And that's just to begin down a potential list of horrors. As The Donald reportedly said in 2016 when he was president, "Let it be an arms race. We will outmatch them at every pass." Then, he asked "a foreign policy advisor three times why, if the U.S. government possessed nuclear weapons, it should be reluctant to use them." Why, indeed? He also assured the governor of Puerto Rico, "If nuclear war happens, we won't be second in line pressing the button."

And of course, it was his administration that pulled out of both the INF nuclear treaty and the Open Skies arms control agreement with Russia, as well as the Iran nuclear agreement, while launching the present staggering "modernization" program. So, while you read today's striking piece by Hartung and Aboukhater about part of the present nuclear build-up, just imagine for a moment that Donald Trump does indeed make it back into the White House. One thing that's already all too clear from the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 (put together by a host of former Trump officials) is that the present version of nuclear "modernization" will be dwarfed by the Trumpian one the next time around and the new Cold War that could follow globally might prove all too horrifically hot. Tom

World-Ending Maneuvers?

Inside the Nuclear-Weapons Lobby Today

By Hekmat Aboukhater and William D. Hartung

The Pentagon is in the midst of a massive $2 trillion multiyear plan to build a new generation of nuclear-armed missiles, bombers, and submarines. A large chunk of that funding will go to major nuclear weapons contractors like Bechtel, General Dynamics, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman. And they will do everything in their power to keep that money flowing.

This January, a review of the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program under the Nunn-McCurdy Act -- a congressional provision designed to rein in cost overruns of Pentagon weapons programs -- found that the missile, the crown jewel of the nuclear overhaul plan involving 450 missile-holding silos spread across five states, is already 81% over its original budget. It is now estimated that it will cost a total of nearly $141 billion to develop and purchase, a figure only likely to rise in the future.

That Pentagon review had the option of canceling the Sentinel program because of such a staggering cost increase. Instead, it doubled down on the program, asserting that it would be an essential element of any future nuclear deterrent and must continue, even if the funding for other defense programs has to be cut to make way for it. In justifying the decision, Deputy Defense Secretary William LaPlante stated: "We are fully aware of the costs, but we are also aware of the risks of not modernizing our nuclear forces and not addressing the very real threats we confront."

Cost is indeed one significant issue, but the biggest risk to the rest of us comes from continuing to build and deploy ICBMs, rather than delaying or shelving the Sentinel program. As former Secretary of Defense William Perry has noted, ICBMs are "some of the most dangerous weapons in the world" because they "could trigger an accidental nuclear war." As he explained, a president warned (accurately or not) of an enemy nuclear attack would have only minutes to decide whether to launch such ICBMs and conceivably devastate the planet.

Possessing such potentially world-ending systems only increases the possibility of an unintended nuclear conflict prompted by a false alarm. And as Norman Solomon and the late Daniel Ellsberg once wrote, "If reducing the dangers of nuclear war is a goal, the top priority should be to remove the triad's ground-based leg -- not modernize it."

This is no small matter. It is believed that a large-scale nuclear exchange could result in more than five billion of us humans dying, once the possibility of a "nuclear winter" and the potential destruction of agriculture across much of the planet is taken into account, according to an analysis by International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War.

In short, the need to reduce nuclear risks by eliminating such ICBMs could not be more urgent. The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists' "Doomsday Clock" -- an estimate of how close the world may be at any moment to a nuclear conflict -- is now set at 90 seconds to midnight, the closest it's been since that tracker was first created in 1947. And just this June, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defense agreement with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, a potential first step toward a drive by Moscow to help Pyongyang expand its nuclear arsenal further. And of the nine countries now possessing nuclear weapons, it's hardly the only one other than the U.S. in an expansionist phase.

Considering the rising tide of nuclear escalation globally, is it really the right time for this country to invest a fortune of taxpayer dollars in a new generation of devastating "use them or lose them" weapons? The American public has long said no, according to a 2020 poll by the University of Maryland's Program for Public Consultation, which showed that 61% of us actually support phasing out ICBM systems like the Sentinel.

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Renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Chirag Solanki is leading the charge in transforming the treatment landscape for Parkinson's disease with the introduction of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) at his state-of-the-art facility in Ahmedabad. As the first neurosurgeon in Gujarat to specialize in Functional Neurosurgery, Dr. Solanki's pioneering work in DBS offers new hope to Parkinson's patients, providing significant relief from symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and motor control issues. Parkinson's disease, a progressive 
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.
Fred Meyers parent company, Kroger, already busy fending off regulatory scrutiny over its proposed $24.6 billion merger with Albertsons, now may have to contend with labor unrest in Portland.

The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555, which represents roughly 4,500 Fred Meyer workers across the Portland area, told The Oregonian/OregonLive on Wednesday that it has scheduled an unfair labor practices strike authorization vote next week.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell is requiring city employees to work in the office at least three days a week, an increase from the previously set two.

Harrell made his announcement in conjunction with King County, which will also follow the new requirement, and Sound Transit, which will phase in more in-person work.
Portland police have called their weekend crackdown on illegal street takeovers and street racing a success.

The so-called West Coast Invitational was expected to draw as many as 1,000 people to city streets, but officers working with partners from Gresham, Oregon State Police and the Multnomah County Sheriffs Office thwarted several attempted takeovers in the region.
Two years ago, Conner Slevin learned from a Facebook friend about out-of-state attorneys who were said to specialize in disability access law and were looking to expand into the Pacific Northwest.

Slevin got the Tennessee lawyers contact numbers and reached out.
The Newberg-Dundee School District, which is in the midst of shedding teachers and other employees as it tries to patch a $13 million budget hole, is still on the hook to pay its soon-to-be-former superintendent around $500,000 over the next two years.

Thats thanks to a notably generous contract that a previous and more conservative-leaning incarnation of the districts school board signed with Superintendent Stephen Phillips in June of 2023, just before the boards membership turned over almost entirely.
The family of a former Tualatin High School student has sued the Tigard-Tualatin School District for nearly $3.7 million, alleging that the school district failed to protect her from being raped in a bathroom by a classmate during school hours.

According to the lawsuit, which was filed in Washington County Circuit Court on July 31, the student, who has a disability, was sexually assaulted and raped in the bathroom in April 2023.

The suit alleges that her rapist was allowed in the high school hallways without supervision. It says that the school district should have been aware of his behaviors and proclivities, and not allowed him to be in an unmonitored hallway. It contends that school officials should have been able to guarantee her safety during school hours on district property.

The District does not comment on pending litigation and assures the community that TTSD is committed to the safety of every student in our schools, said Lisa Burton, a spokesperson for the district. Allegations of sexual assault are serious, and Oregon law and District policy require the investigation of such reports. TTSD responds urgently with support for students experiencing any form of violence. The District is committed to holding anyone accountable who is responsible for serious criminal offenses.

The bathroom where the alleged rape took place is a private space that locks from within, said Kevin Brague, the Portland lawyer representing the family who filed the complaint.

According to the lawsuit, the female student lacked cognitive and functional abilities to understand and appreciate that she had the right not to be abused, sexually assaulted and raped by others, and her ability to receive and evaluate information effectively or to communicate decisions was impaired by her rapists force, threats and coercion.

The female student left Tualatin High School following the alleged assault and eventually transferred to a new school, Brague said. The lawsuit says she needed medical care and therapy. The lawsuit seeks $3.6 million for non-economic damages and another $90,000 to cover present and future medical expenses.

 Julia Silverman covers education for The Oregonian/OregonLive. She can be reached via email at jsilverman@oregonian.com. Follow her on X.com at @jrlsilverman.
The Oregon State Bar is petitioning the Oregon Supreme Court to immediately suspend Bend attorney John A. Walshs license while it investigates nearly a dozen complaints filed against him in the past two months alleging malpractice, violence, harassment and other erratic behavior.

It is uncommon for the bar, the licensing, disciplinary and regulatory body for attorneys in Oregon, to request the Supreme Court issue an interim suspension while a lawyers case is reviewed, said public information officer Kateri Walsh. However, the allegations made against John A. Walsh suggest he could pose a significant risk to the public, she said.

We usually can only suspend a lawyer after a finding by a disciplinary panel with a significant amount of due process involved, so it can take a while, she said. In this case, the disciplinary counsels office determined  it would behoove us to seek his interim suspension while the disciplinary investigation continues.

Ten clients have filed complaints against John A. Walsh, 66, over the past several months. All of them state he accepted retainer deposits yet provided little to no legal services. He also missed court dates, acted bizarrely and sent cryptic emails to opposing counsel.

But his actions escalated when he began harassing clients, according to the Oregon State Bars petition.

Thane Merritt filed a complaint detailing that John Walsh would refuse to speak to her about her case and would only speak about his personal life. After she asked him to withdraw as her lawyer, he messaged her 54 times in group texts with strangers. Merritt was subsequently granted a restraining order against him.

Another complaint was lodged by Bryce Tanner Lupton, who hired John Walsh after he was charged with felony manslaughter when he caused a car crash that killed Jacobic Lee Barnhill on Sept. 23 in Bend. Despite receiving a $15,000 retainer from Lupton, the attorney missed four court appearances.

Lupton also alleges John Walsh has been harassing his family, placing more than 30 calls and texts intimidating Luptons parents into performing tasks unrelated to his case. In one instance, Walsh forced Luptons stepfather to drive him around Bend, where they visited a church and Walshs ex-wifes house, according to Luptons complaint. The complaint also says Walsh verbally abused Luptons mother.

In addition to the complaints made by clients, a Hood River County Circuit Court judge filed a grievance against John Walsh after he failed to show up to two court hearings. It became increasingly clear to Judge John Olson that Walsh was acting erratically, so he barred Walsh from entering the courtroom.

The petition to disbar John Walsh paints the picture of a man struggling with alcohol abuse and mental health as it recounts Walshs recent decline through the eyes of his legal assistant, Christopher Farrar. Walsh hired Farrar in 2023 after he helped Walsh set up his computer. Farrar worked with Walsh for six months before resigning over ethical concerns, according to the bars petition.

The petition shows Farrar corroborated accounts that John Walsh would accept client funds but perform no substantive work on those cases. Most of the work accomplished during his tenure, Farrar said, was completed by himself despite the fact he had no previous legal experience. Farrar also said Walsh would meet with clients and attend court hearings while intoxicated.

Around the time Farrar resigned in 2024, John Walsh hired Mark Kehoe to do contract work in his home. When Kehoe arrived, Walsh struck him several times, according to the petition. The event prompted law enforcement to obtain an extreme risk protection order, which required Walsh to surrender any firearms on the belief he was at risk of hurting himself or others.

After John Walsh was criminally charged with harassing Kehoe, as well as a separate violation of a stalking order, he failed to appear in court, resulting in two warrants for his arrest. In those criminal matters, Walsh submitted a waiver of extradition on his own behalf stating he may travel around the world, and listing Jesus Christ as his mental health provider.

Kateri Walsh said there is no timeline in which the Oregon Supreme Court is required to review the petition to immediately suspend John Walshs license. These types of petitions rarely happen, she said, and only three of its kind have been filed since 2021. Once the Oregon Supreme Court decides whether or not to grant the immediate suspension, it will review whether or not to permanently disbar John Walsh.

The other thing we wanted to do is make sure that the community is informed in case there are other clients out there who may have matters pending or their legal cases could be put in jeopardy, Kateri Walsh said.

Clients who have hired John Walsh and have concerns can reach out to the Oregon State Bars Client Assistance Office, or call 503-620-0222 or 800-452-8260. The Oregon State Bar will help those clients sort though information about their cases and transfer necessary records to a new attorney, Kateri Walsh said.
Rene Gonzalez, the Portland city commissioner and candidate for mayor, recently paid $6,400 to spruce up his profile on Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia maintained by volunteer editors.

He did so using city taxpayer dollars.
Democratic U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Donald Trump-endorsed Republican Joe Kent advanced to the general election in Washingtons 3rd Congressional District on Tuesday night, setting up a rematch of the 2022 race for the Southwest Washington seat.

Gluesenkamp Perez beat Kent two years ago to capture a district that had long eluded her party.
Vice President Kamala Harriss announcement Tuesday that she had picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her Democratic running mate, prompted a question in the minds of many Portlanders:

Who is Tim Walz?
We all know that Portlanders love to get outside. Just head to Forest Park, Washington Park or the Duckworth Dock on a warm summer daylet alone the Columbia Gorge, Mount Hood or the Tillamook State Forest  to find throngs of people out enjoying some fresh air.

Our love of the outdoors may already be famous, but now its been confirmed by one of those trending studies by random websites, which has ranked Portland as one of the Most Outdoor-Friendly Cities in America.
Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta is back with brand new dramatic episode of Season 12, Episode 3, airing tonight, Tuesday, August 6 at 8 p.m. with a live broadcast on MTV. You can watch live with a free with a trial of Philo, or get it streaming on demand shortly after.

 WATCH: Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta Episode 3 for free tonight with Philo (free trial), or catch up on all episodes of the show streaming for free on demand right now. You can also watch for free with Fubo (free trial), or DirecTV Stream (free trial) if you prefer those platforms.

This week, Sierra gets back into the studio while Bambi and Amys worlds collide. Meanwhile, Karli is furious about some commentary about her new man. Tune in tonight to see what happens next.

Where can I watch Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta Season 12?

When: Tuesday, August 6 at 8 p.m. PT/ET

TV Channel: MTV

Watch the show live streaming online: If you dont have cable, you can watch the episode live, or on demand for free with Philo (free trial). If you have run out of free trials with this service, keep in mind that Philo is the cheapest TV streaming service on the market and costs just $28/month for the service and you can cancel anytime. You can also watch for free on DirecTV Stream (free trial), which carries We TV, but plans for that service are considerably more expensive.

You can find out more about which channel MTV is on by using the channel finders here: Verizon Fios, AT&T U-verse, Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum/Charter, Optimum/Altice, DIRECTV, and Dish.
As Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears was wrapping up an appearance in front of a crowd of Republican voters in Albemarle County, she said she had one final thing to share before leaving.

So I know you heard I am not running for the lieutenant governorship again, the Republican told the enthusiastic audience of more than 100 people, but I am exploring a run for governor.

Earle-Sears had to break for applause plenty of times during her 40-minute visit at First Free Coffee Bar at Hollymead Town Center just north of Charlottesville, but it was that last line that earned her a standing ovation.

Earle-Sears, who was elected lieutenant governor in 2021 alongside Gov. Glenn Youngkin, has not formally announced a campaign. But she has been traveling Virginia in a way that gubernatorial candidates do; in a matter of days, she has held events with Republican voters in Pittsylvania, Greene, Nelson, Rockingham and now Albemarle counties. The slew of visits gives the appearance of someone gearing up for a campaign, perhaps testing the waters before diving in.

What does it mean to explore a run?

It means Im talking to people, taking advice, looking at the landscape, and when I make a decision, then Ill make a decision, she told The Daily Progress. People ask me, Well when are you going to launch? And I say, When I stop exploring. So well see. Well see what happens.

Earle-Sears Sunday appearance had been on the books since May, when her team reached out to the Albemarle County Republican Committee, according to committee Chairman John Lowry. And while she received a very warm welcome, whether shell formally declare her candidacy could depend on another member of Youngkins administration: Attorney General Jason Miyares.

Both Miyares and Earle-Sears have been rumored to be interested in making a run for governor, setting up a potential showdown between two Youngkin surrogates who each have broad support from GOP voters in the commonwealth. Despite legislative and election defeats, the Youngkin administration remains popular; the governor boasted a 58% favorability rating at the end of last year, according to a Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy survey.

Lowry hopes, and has reason to believe, that Youngkins subordinates want to avoid a public battle for power.

Weve been told by both of [their offices] that they very likely will sit down before the beginning of the new year and decide which one is going to run, Lowry told The Daily Progress. I hope thats what will happen. Wed rather them settle it in house. Everybody loves the Youngkin team, so either Jason or Winsome would be fine.

In Lowrys opinion, Earle-Sears recent travels across the state are part of a goodwill tour, a time to gauge support for her potential candidacy.

Both she and Attorney General Miyares would like to run for governor, Lowry said. So if she fell flat on her face in this goodwill tour, then Jason would feel more likely to step in. Thats what I think is going on.

At First Free Coffee, Earle-Sears certainly didnt fall flat. The sold-out event at the coffee shop owned by one-time GOP House of Delegates candidate Steve Harvey attracted 150 people, each paying organizers $35 per ticket. After delivering her remarks, most of the audience stood in a long line to take a photo with Earle-Sears. There was broad support for Earle-Sears Sunday, but that doesnt mean Miyares isnt popular, even among the same Albemarle County Republicans.

The two potential candidates are going to have to sit down, or theyre going to have a fight, and we dont want them to have a fight, Lowry said.

Such a fight could hurt Republican odds of winning the Executive Mansion. On the other side of the ticket awaits a formidable Democrat, U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger. After Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney withdrew his bid, the congresswoman from Virginias 7th District now sits unopposed as the presumptive Democratic nominee. With more than a year to go before the 2025 general election, her campaign has already amassed a war chest of more than $7 million. That number will only grow, and without a primary opponent, shell be able to concentrate her spending against the future Republican nominee.

A primary would force the two GOP candidates to spend money and endure intraparty attacks, potentially weakening the eventual victor. Its a scenario some Republicans want to avoid.

But Dan Moy, who heads the Charlottesville Republican Committee, thinks the contest could actually be healthy.

You always like to see the team unified. However, we all forget this but there used to be a time in American civics where you could have candidates in the same party running against each other and it was a positive, Moy told The Daily Progress.

Like Lowry, he thinks highly of both Miyares and Earle-Sears. They each have compelling personal stories, Moy said. Earle-Sears is a Jamaican-born Marine Corps veteran and the first woman of color elected to statewide office. Miyares is the first Hispanic elected to statewide office. Introducing Earle-Sears Sunday, Moy called Youngkins team the most diverse executive office in Virginia history.

Moy noted that Earle-Sears never attacked her political opponents during her visit Sunday, instead focusing on policy. He thinks Miyares has a similar demeanor and that the two would avoid personal attacks on the campaign trail.

Both of them have the character in politics where its not about demonizing or putting down your opponent. Yes, lets have debates over the policy, lets have debates over the positions. Thats healthy. Thats how we get better, Moy said. And if there are two great candidates of the same party that have different perspectives, that bring different things to the table, give the voters choices and let the voters decide what they believe is the best fit for the leadership of the commonwealth.

Miyares has not signaled his intent one way or another.

Chloe Smith, a spokeswoman for Miyares office, offered a statement when asked if Miyares is exploring a run for governor or expects a primary contest with Earle-Sears.

The Attorney General is focused on making our communities safe, ensuring parents have a say in their childrens education, defending Virginians from federal overreach, and electing Republicans up and down the ballot in 2024, Smith wrote in an email to The Daily Progress.

Asked if she expects to have to primary the attorney general or if the two could settle the matter privately and quietly, Earle-Sears said, I dont know. Well see just like everybody else what happens.

Cole Trower, a consultant for her political action committee, then chimed in.

I think there were a lot of people here today, wasnt there? Trower asked.

There were.

Were they enthusiastic?

They were.

If Earle-Sears hadnt been met with enthusiasm during her recent tour, launching a campaign may look less appealing. But after warm receptions in Albemarle County and elsewhere, the lieutenant governor is clearly gaining momentum. Sunday offered a glimpse into what a real campaign might look like.

I like to talk policy because thats what people really want to hear about, she told the crowd. What are you going to do if we put you in?

She focused on business and education.

Businesses are not going to relocate to a place where their potential employees are undereducated or uneducated, she told The Daily Progress. So weve got to make sure that all of those pieces fit together.

Earle-Sears opened her own home appliance business after she lost a congressional election in 2004, and she wants the commonwealth to be an attractive place for other businesses too.

She touted a recent CNBC report ranking Virginia the best state for business in the country. Virginia has won the distinction a record-number six times, including in 2019 and 2021 when Democrat Ralph Northam was governor. Earle-Sears said other states were vying for the title and that Virginia would need to keep pace.

A battery plant went to North Carolina because they had a mega site ready  over 1,800 acres ready. They had already dug the dirt and put in the foundation, she said.

States such as Tennessee, which have no income tax, have an advantage, she said.

We have to make sure that our regulations arent so onerous that it takes away from their productivity, she said. Weve got to make sure that our tax policy is competitive.

She applauded Youngkins efforts to reduce the states income tax.

Lord Almighty, he was accused of being for millionaires and billionaires. But guess what? Im not a millionaire or a billionaire. But it would help me if I was able to keep more money that I make in my pocket, she told the crowd.

And she criticized the states policies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When I owned my business, government policy closed my business in response to COVID. So dont tell me COVID closed my business. No. It was the government policies that closed my business, she said to applause.

Earle-Sears said her campaign, if there is a campaign, would target parts of the commonwealth that she feels have been overlooked, voters who have been overlooked. That includes Black voters like herself. She told The Daily Progress that before she entered politics, neither party ever reached out to her: Because shes Black, Democrats thought they could rely on her vote and Republicans thought they couldnt win it.

The reason I got into politics way back when was because nobody ever knocked on my door or asked me what I thought, Earle-Sears said.

Earle-Sears entered politics in 2001, surprising Democratic incumbent Billy Robinson in the 90th District. A couple of years later, she tried to move from the House of Delegates to Congress. After being soundly defeated by Bobby Scott in 2004, she mostly stayed out of public life until 2021 when she won a close race for lieutenant governor.

She presents herself as a practical politician willing to work across the aisle and compromise, uninterested in divisiveness.

We cant be constantly at each others throats. Im tired of the political games, she said, referencing a famous line from the late President Ronald Reagan: There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you dont care who gets the credit.

That strategy will be put to the test if she enters the race, particularly if Miyares does too. Pointing to her long hiatus from the political sphere, she said she would not have reentered public life without good reason.

I left politics 20 years ago, and now Im back again. So that must mean something. It means youre not playing around, she said. Im not going to smile in your face and stab you in the back. I just want to get things done.
Two wildfires that started in Oregon last weekend continue to grow, prompting evacuations and destroying two homes.

The 5,000-acre Elk Lane fire in Jefferson County and the 10,000-acre Town Gulch fire in Baker County both started over the weekend, drawing more than 300 firefighters total to battle the two blazes. Thirty-three other wildfires, including five megafires, are burning in Oregon, the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center reported on Wednesday.

The spread of the Elk Lane fire, which started on Sunday from unknown causes, led Gov. Tina Kotek to invoke the Emergency Conflagration Act to battle the blaze, which still remains at 0% containment, the Oregon State Fire Marshal said in a statement on Monday.

The Jefferson County Sheriffs Office has declared a level 3 Go Now evacuation notice for the area just west of Madras; at least 188 people live within the evacuation zone, the sheriffs offices evacuation map reports.

In Baker County, the Town Gulch fire, burning eight miles north of the town of Richland, has consumed two homes. The fire grew rapidly on Tuesday, prompting Gov. Kotek to invoke the Emergency Conflagration Act for the second time in two days, the fire marshal said.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal said it has sent the Blue Incident Management Team, along with four structural-fire task forces to protect buildings endangered by the fire.

The sheriffs office issued evacuation notices around the area of the fire, and Red Cross of Idaho and East Oregon has opened an evacuation shelter in the town of Halfway, the sheriffs office said on its Facebook page on Tuesday.

Almost 10,000 people are currently under Level 3 Go Now evacuation orders in Oregon, the states evacuation website reports.

Elsewhere in Oregon, firefighters are making progress on some of the states megafires  including Malheur Countys 133,490-acre Cow Valley fire, which is now at 99% containment; the 147,161-acre Falls fire, which is now at 75% containment; and the 294,695-acre Durkee fire, which is now at 86% containment.

 Tatum Todd covers crime and public safety. Reach them at ttodd@oregonian.com , or 503-221-4313.
Gerrit Dirkmaat is featured in a new super-short video from the Interpreter Foundation entitled The Faith of the Whitmers. If you like it, share it!

Thinking about what the Interpreter Foundation has accomplished since it was founded twelve years ago this week, and thinking of the critics who continually pretend to see evidence that the Foundation is in decline or that it has been marginalized and somehow rendered irrelevant, Im reminded of the title of the 1953 Raymond Chandler novel The Long Good-Bye, and of Juliets words to Romeo from her balcony:

Parting is such sweet sorrow that I shall say goodnight till it be morrow.

Im deeply grateful to all of those  donors, volunteers, authors, and others  who have made Interpreter possible.

And, speaking of the Interpreter Foundation, here are three new items that went up today on its website:

Nibley Lectures: Come, Follow Me Book of Mormon Lesson 33 Stand Fast in the Faith of Christ (Alma 43-52)

This week for Come, Follow Me lesson 33 covering Alma 43-52, we have lectures 57 through 70 (14 lectures!) from Hugh Nibleys Book of Mormon classes at Brigham Young University, covering Alma 4554. During 1988, 1989, and 1990, Hugh Nibley taught Honors Book of Mormon classes for four semesters at Brigham Young University. The lectures were video-taped and audio cassettes and printed transcripts were made of the lectures. We believe these recordings will be interesting to listen to and valuable to your Come, Follow Me study program this year. Each week, we will include the lectures covering the Book of Mormon chapters being studied that week.

The Book of Mormon in Context Lesson 33: Stand Fast in the Faith of Christ (Alma 43-52)

For the 21 July 2024 Come, Follow Me segment of the Interpreter Radio Show, Bruce Webster and Robert Boylan and Kris Frederickson discussed Book of Mormon lesson 33, Stand Fast in the Faith of Christ discussing Alma 43-52. Archived and freed from commercial interruptions, their discussion is now available for your listening pleasure at no cost to you. The other segments of the 21 July 2o24 radio show can be accessed at https://interpreterfoundation.org/interpreter-radio-show-july-21-2024. Each and every week, the Interpreter Radio Show can be heard on Sunday evening between 7 PM and 9 PM (MDT), on K-TALK, AM 1640. If, for some reason, that doesnt suit your lifestyle, you can listen to it live on the Internet at ktalkmedia.com.

Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps (2024): Lesson 33, August 12-18: Alma 43-52: Stand Fast in the Faith of Christ

Editors Note: Four years ago, Jonn Claybaugh began writing the Study and Teaching Helps series of articles for Interpreter. We now have these wonderful and useful posts for all four years of Come, Follow Me lessons. Beginning this year we will be reposting these articles, with dates, lesson numbers, and titles updated for the current years lessons. Jonn has graciously agreed to write new study aids for those lessons that do not directly correspond to 2020 lessons.

I suspect that Brigham Youngs tastes in theater may have been more overtly didactic than mine are, and we certainly disagree on his distaste for tragedies, but Im certainly grateful that he gave such strong support to drama from the very earliest days of Latter-day Saint settlement in Utah. (So, too, is my wife, the theater major, who  I opted not to go, having several things to do  is out with a friend to a play as I type.)

If I were placed on a cannibal island and given a task of civilizing its people, Brigham is said to have remarked, I should straightway build a theatre.

And, very plainly, history and his actions bear him out on that claim. Soon after they arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, the Latter-day Saints erected a temporary shelter made from tree boughs on a frame structure that came to be called The Bowery. It stood on the southeast corner of what we now know as Temple Square. The forerunner of the Tabernacle, it was used for religious services  but also for concerts, plays, and dances.

In 1853, not much more than five years after the arrival of the Mormon pioneers in the valley, Salt Lake Citys Social Hall was formally dedicated. The non-LDS lawyer and federal territorial official Benjamin G. Ferris (1802-1891), a native of New York who was no friend to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, compared the theatrical performances held there favorably to dramatic presentations along the eastern seaboard.

Thereafter, in 1862, Brigham Young dedicated the Salt Lake Theatre, which was one of the finest theater buildings of its time anywhere in the United States. Said he,

Upon the stage of a theater can be represented in character, evil and its consequences, good and its happy results and rewards; the weakness and the follies of man, the magnanimity of virtue and the greatness of truth. The stage can be made to aid the pulpit in impressing upon the minds of a community an enlightened sense of a virtuous life, also a proper horror of the enormity of sin and a just dread of its consequences. The path of sin with its thorns and pitfalls, its gins and snares can be revealed, and how to shun it (Discourses of Brigham Young, 243).

Im confident that Brother Brigham would have loved film, too, and that he would have seen its enormous potential power for good.

I try not to let too much time go by between offerings taken from the Christopher Hitchens Memorial How Religion Poisons Everything File. I know how much these specimens of theistic atrocity mean to some folks, and how much they depend upon such horrors to keep their anti-theistic indignation aflame. Heres a new case that, I think, should serve the purpose: Honduras Hospitals Receive Two Major Donations From the Church of Jesus Christ.
Today, TBD, a part of Block, announced the launch of the TBD Hackathon, held in collaboration with the Africa Bitcoin Conference.



The hackathon is an exciting competition designed to drive innovation, creativity, and technological advancement of payments in Africa using the tbDEX open-source protocol.



The submission period for this hackathon will open on 31 July 2024, and close on 15 September 2024. The hackathon culminates 9-11 December 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, at the Africa Bitcoin Conference.



The TBD Hackathon initiative aims to unleash the potential of African developers and innovators.



The competition will bring together the best builders and entrepreneurs to address issues in payment systems across Africa. Currently, many African countries face challenges such as limited access to banking services, high transaction fees, and inefficient cross-border payments.



TBD's open-source trust protocol, tbDEX, aims to address these problems by connecting users to wallet providers and financial institutions of their choice, surfacing competitive exchange rates and fees.



To register for the hackathon and learn more, start here. (www.tbdex.io/hackathon)



Hackathon Challenge



Developers across Africa will be tasked with developing a payment application that leverages the power of tbDEX. Join this hackathon and develop a wallet application integrated with tbDEX. Youll be provided with a sandbox of example PFIs (Participating Financial Institutions) to test your applications functionality. Participants will work in teams of up to two people and are expected to build their projects using the tbDEX SDK.



Six teams of finalists will be chosen and flown to Nairobi, Kenya to attend the Africa Bitcoin Conference and pitch what theyve built to our panel of judges. The top three projects will be awarded prizes as follows:



 First Prize: $15,000 in BTC

 Second Prize: $10,000 in BTC

 Third Prize: $5,000 in BTC



We encourage developers, entrepreneurs, and innovators from all over Africa to participate, said Angie Jones, Global VP of Developer Relations for TBD. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a passionate newcomer, the TBD Hackathon is the perfect platform to build the next generation of financial tools for the continent.



To sign up for the hackathon and learn more, start here.



















Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai, Chief Executive of Telecel Ghana, has been awarded the CEO of the Year in both the Telecommunications and Private Sector categories at the prestigious Ghana CEO Awards. The remarkable double honour acknowledged her exceptional leadership, business acumen and support for sustainability initiatives in the last year.



Ing. Obo-Nais recognition comes on the heels of the telcos successful transition and rebranding to Telecel Ghana, a milestone that marked a strategic shift and a renewed commitment to the Ghanaian market.



Under her leadership, Telecel Ghana has experienced significant growth and expansion, solidifying its position as a key player in the country's telecommunications landscape and a leader in sustainability in the industry.



Themed CEOs for Climate Change: Steering Towards A Greener Future, this years edition focused on the role of CEOs in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable practices in their organisations. The Ghana CEO Awards, in its third year running, is a leadership recognition scheme that awards outstanding chief executives across different sectors of Ghana's business community.



Receiving both CEO of the Year  Telecom and CEO of the Year  Private Sector honours on the night at the Kempinski Gold Coast City Hotel, Accra, Ing. Obo-Nai said she was humbled and full of appreciation for the recognition of her leadership and the team effort at Telecel Ghana.



Im honoured to receive the CEO of the Year awards for the private sector and in telecommunications. This recognition is testament to the hard work and dedication of the whole team at Telecel Ghana to be at the forefront of network connectivity and sustainability, Ing. Obo-Nai said. With our successful transition to Telecel Ghana this year, we will continue to be a leader in connectivity and sustainability to contribute to building a greener and sustainable future.



The Ghana CEO Awards convened leaders and executive management from multiple business sectors with Minister of Information, Hon. Fatimatu Abubakar delivering the keynote address in the stead of the vice president of Ghana.



The double accolade spotlights Ing. Obo-Nais exemplary fortitude and ability to navigate industry challenges, drive innovation, and deliver exceptional results for Telecel Ghana's success.



Telecel Ghana, under Ing. Obo-Nai's leadership, is expected to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation, contributing significantly to Ghana's digital transformation and connectivity.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Madagascar was in the spotlight on July 30, 2024 in Guinea-Bissau. The state visit of the President of the Republic, Andry RAJOELINA, solemnly began with a military parade, with a troop review and cannon fire. The Malagasy Head of State was welcomed by the Commander of the Military Bloc of Guinea-Bissau, then by President Umaro Sissoco Embalo. The two presidents then held a tete-a-tete in the office of President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, before jointly leading a bilateral meeting between the two delegations.



President Umaro Sissoco Embalo stressed that Guinea-Bissau was honored to receive the President of the Malagasy Republic, a brother and friend country with which it shares a set of values and the same aspirations for peace, stability and development. . This visit marks a new page in the history between our two countries and symbolizes our mutual commitment to strengthening our ties of friendship and cooperation. I wish lasting peace and continued prosperity for the people of Guinea-Bissau. Our Joint efforts will lead to a bright and fruitful future for our two nations, declared President Andry RAJOELINA.



Two partnership agreements were signed at the end of this bilateral meeting: a general framework cooperation agreement between the two countries, covering 28 sectors of cooperation, and a joint press release committing the two nations to respect the terms of this agreement. The two parties thus undertake to strengthen relations in all areas of commoninterest, in a spirit of fraternal solidarity.



The signing of these agreements took place in the presence of the two Heads of State and all officials of the two countries. The Minister of the Malagasy Armed Forces, SAHIVELO Lala Monja Delphin, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Communities, Mr. Carlos Pinto Pereira, carried out this signing. The military field is also among



the sectors concerned, where Guinea-Bissau officers will be able to join the AntsirabeMilitary Academy (ACMIL).

In recognition of the importance of this state visit, President Andry RAJOELINA was decorated with the Amilcar Cabral medal, the highest distinction of Guinea-Bissau, by President Umaro Sissoco Embalo. The ceremony took on all the solemnity of this event. I am giving you this distinction as recognition for everything you have accomplished for the African continent but also for Guinea-Bissau, declared President Umaro Sissoco Embalo. It is up to him to recall the distribution of Tambavy CVO across Africa during the COVID-19 period. President Embalo also welcomed Madagascar's commitment to south-south cooperation, considering President Andry RAJOELINA as a true Ambassador and symbol of Pan-Africanism.



In addition, during the ceremony at the Presidential Palace, the President of the Malagasy Republic also received the keys to the city of Bissau from the hands of the Mayor, Jose Medina Lobato.



The two Heads of State expressed their mutual desire to move forward hand in hand by marking a new page in diplomatic relations between the two countries. After these ceremonies, President Andry RAJOELINA visited the cashew processing factory of the SantyCommercial Group which is located in the Bra Industrial Zone, a sector in which Guinea-Bissau is one of the world's leading exporters.

Source: Afrique info









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Dr. Prince Hamid Armah, Chairman of the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) Manifesto Committee on Education, has said that beyond the free Senior High Schools (SHS) flagship policy, the government's success in education cannot be ignored.



Dr. Armah, the former National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) boss, said those improvements were so glaring in Ghanas education facets.



Speaking to journalists in Accra after the State of Education in Ghana, delivered by the sector minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Dr. Armah noted that teachers welfare and professionalism, as well as education infrastructure, had not been left out of the success story.



He said the current government was on a good path to reclaim Ghanas former glory, with evidence of progress seen at the basic, secondary (technical and vocational), and tertiary levels.



Dr. Prince Armah, who is also the Member of Parliament for Kwesimintsim, said the achievements of the government in education could not be appreciated without an understanding of where the country was coming from.



Providing a trajectory for the development of the education sector, Dr. Armah, who is also the Deputy Minister of Works and Housing, said the best way to assess a countrys performance in education is through international assessment trends.



According to him, from 2015 to 2016, prior to the NPP's coming into power, the Early Grade Assessment both in Math and Literacy showed a depressing performance of the countrys youth, with a huge percentage unable to read, comprehend, and write, as well as tabulate.



Results of WASSCE were low, with an average of 30 percent pass rate in some of the core subjects... basic instructional supplies for teachers eluded the teachers to the extent that even common chalk to write, they didnt have, he said.



Dr. Prince Armah said that, due to the above, the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government took up the challenge by instituting bold education reforms that impacted not just the education infrastructure but the curriculum as well.



He said over 2,731 infrastructure projects have been completed so far, which cuts across all the sectors of education.



The MP said out of the figure, 1,430 infrastructure projects were at the basic level, 1,144 at the SHS, and 138 at the tertiary, with two infrastructure projects each for model schools and TVET centres.



Contrary to claims by the opposition that the government had abandoned school projects, Dr. Armah said of the total projects completed, 1,651 of them were legacy projects, with 1,080 of them being new projects.



These projects, he said, were to ensure that the students studied in a more congenial environment.



According to him, the government decided to change the curriculum and institute a standard-based curriculum to address the countrys needs.



He said the previous curriculum was not based on standards and competency; it was only hinged on the students ability to regurgitate, or what was called chew, and poor pass-and-forget, which was inimical to the growth and development of the country.



Dr. Armah, a curriculum expert, said that while at NACCa, he supervised the production of textbooks, which were also in consonance with the curriculum change.



According to him, a fidelity implementation plan has been done to ensure the objectives of the entire reforms will be met.



For the reforms to be successful, he said teachers would be made more competent and efficient.



With the teacher reforms, a Ghanaian teacher can be accepted globally without necessarily having to take other exams in the countries they want to teach, he said.







Source: GNA









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Horace Ekow Ewusi, the Parliamentary Candidate for Cape Coast North on the ticket of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has petitioned President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo, requesting the removal of Professor Harold Amonoo-Kuofi as the Chairman of the Governing Council Board of the University of Cape Coast.



The NPP stalwart believes the conduct of Prof. Amonoo-Kuofi is gravely affecting the smooth running of one of Ghanas prestigious universities; hence, must be removed with immediate effect.



Excerpts of the petition sighted by Peacefmonline.com from the parliamentary candidate of the NPP reads I humbly write to bring to your attention the disturbing conduct of the Chairperson of the Governing Council of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Prof. Harold S. Amonoo-Kuofi, which is affecting the smooth running of the University and further petition your high office to investigate same and further humbly request for his removal.



This request is being made as a final resort after numerous efforts by the eminent of the community, including myself to request him to conduct himself as a seasoned statesman and responsible Chairperson of a highly esteemed institution as the University of Cape Coast has proved futile. Although the Chairman may be seen as a party person and professional, his conduct clearly demonstrates that he is seeking a personal agenda than the one that he was brought in for which is the collective interest of the University, thereby affecting our chances of winning the seat, portions of the petition read.



The NPP parliamentary candidate alleged that the governing council chair was exhibiting autocratic tendencies in decisions which is likely to have a spiral effect t on the Universality.



Mr. Horace Ekow Ewusi added, He lacks a fundamental grasp of corporate governance principles and behaves as an executive chairman, making unilateral decisions without recourse to members of the University Council.



He has repeatedly taken it upon himself to make unilateral decisions, including solely responding to a petition on an advertisement without seeking input from other members of the Governing Council. Additionally, he has clashed with two major unions (UTAG and GAUA), the convocation and the Board of convocation of the University. Attached as Appendix 1 to 3 are copies of the responses written by Prof. Harold Amonoo-Koufi to these bodies.



According to him, Prof. Amonoo-Kuofi consistently attacks the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong of the university since he assumed office, adding that such attacks have caused a lot of tension and division within the University community.



Faculty and staff of the University, who form the base of our party, have expressed concerns about the sudden turn of events since Prof. Harold Amanoo-Kuofi assumed office and the potential impact this has on the Universitys reputation.





Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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Ernest Owusu Bempah, a deputy Communications Director of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare to commence investigations into what he describes as fake Agyapadie document.



Citing the 1960 Criminal Offences Act (Act 29), Ernest Owusu Bempah noted that false publications have the capacity to cause public unrest, a situation he deems will not augur well for the country, hence, his call to the IGP to commence investigations into the Agyapadie document.



In a statement to the IGP, Mr. Owusu Bempah stated, The Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, as a matter of urgency must arrest the people behind the publication of this fictional document and bring them to face the full rigours of the law.



Over the last couple of days, Ghana has seen politics of deception and media tyranny elevated on top our national discourse. That pushback sits at the heart of the fictional and ficticious Agyapadie publication released on www.awakenewsroom.com, and flowing from this is the mercenary politicking of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).



Below is his full statement



Statement calling on the police to arrest the publishers of the Agyapadie document



Over the last couple of days, Ghana has seen politics of deception and media tyranny elevated on top our national discourse. That pushback sits at the heart of the fictional and ficticious Agyapadie publication released on www.awakenewsroom.com, and flowing from this is the mercenary politicking of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).



The 38-page document, which lacks an identified author, prominently features the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin on the cover, with President Nana Akufo-Addo and his late father on the subsequent page.



The document is believed to outline strategies for how a particular family or clan plans to establish dominance and control various sectors including the economy, politics, media, judiciary, telecommunications, and banking.



On Thursday, August 1, 2024, President Akufo-Addo addressed rumours regarding this document and dismissed its content.



Chapter 5, Article 21 of the 1992 Constitution provides all persons the right to freedom of speech and expression including freedom of the press and other media.



Additionally, Chapter 12 of 1992 Constitution of Ghana is devoted to freedom and independence of the media, where Article 162 of the Chapter highlights the freedom and responsibilities of the media.



The 1960 Criminal Offenses Act 1960 (Act 29) specifies that any false publication that has the tendency to cause public unrest is a misdemeanor. It adds that ignorance of the falsehood of the publication is not a defence unless the person proves reasonable measures that were taken to verify the content prior to its publication. The sender or forwarder of any false communication is without any excuse even if the person was not the originator of the message.



Section 208 (1) states:



A person who publishes or reproduces a statement, rumor or report which is likely to cause fear and alarm to the public or to disturb the public peace knowing or having reason to believe that the statement, rumor or report is false commits a misdemeanor



And Section 208 (2) states:



It is not a defence to a charge under subsection (1) that the person charged did not know or did not have reason to believe that the statement, rumour or report was false unless it is proved that prior to publication, that person took reasonable measures to verify the accuracy of the statement, rumour or report.



Again, the Electronic Communications Act 2008 (Act 775) specifies that it is offensive to knowingly send false communication which has the potential to put the safety of people at risk or be detrimental to the efficiency of life saving services, via any electronic means. By engaging in the act and subjecting oneself to the legal test in section 76, that person would be liable for the offence.



Section 76 (1) states:



A person who by means of electronic communications knowingly sends communication which is false or misleading and likely to prejudice the efficiency of life saving services or to endanger the safety of any person commits an offence.



Section 76 (2) states:



A person is taken to know that a communication is false or misleading if that person did not take reasonable steps to find out whether the communication was false, misleading, reckless or fraudulent.



I therefore call for an investigation into the entire Agyapadie publication and those believed to have orchestrated the publication to be fished out and followed up with a view to punish them in accordance with the relevant sections of the criminal offences Act.



It is alleged that key players in the NDC, the likes of Dr Omane Boamah, Okudzeto Ablakwa, Abraham Amaliba and Edudzi Tamakloe have a thing to do with the document.



The publishers of the Awake news and their collaborators have developed a penchant for the publication of fake news because they always gets away with it regardless of the magnitude of such evil lies they peddles.



As a country we cannot look on for the NDC to always peddle brazen and wicked falsehood and later turn around to say this is politics.



On this current issue, the publishers of the Awake news must be subjected to the full rigors of the law to deter them from hiding behind social media to create confusion in the system.



The Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, as a matter of urgency must arrest the the people behind the publication of this fictional document and bring them to face the full rigours of the law.





Ernest Kofi Owusu Bempah

Deputy Director of Communications, NPP

Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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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









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Residents of Komenda are preparing to protest against the leasing of the sugar factory to an Indian firm next week.



The locals argue that this move will deprive them of the employment opportunities they anticipated since the facility was built.



This follows an announcement by Minister K.T. Hammond about plans to lease the Komenda Sugar Factory to West African Agro Limited, an India-based firm, for a renewable term of 15 to 20 years.



Speaking on Top Story, the Concerned Citizens of Komenda Traditional Area expressed their expectation that the government would buy sugar cane from local farmers.



However, the new management plans to import semi-refined sugar to process into white sugar, rather than supporting local production.



Convenor, Samuel Awudza worried that "the work that the farmers here are supposed to be doing, you are outsourcing that work to Indian farmers."



"We think that the government is about to pay jobs for us. We are farmers. We always cultivate sugar cane. And you've promised us, a lot of people even took loans from banks to expand their farms with the hope that Komenda Sugar Factory will be operational for them to get jobs to do."



"So if you want to kick out all these people and then, rather import brown sugar from India to Komenda then and refine to white sugar, then what employment are you creating?" he quizzed on Tuesday.



Mr Awudza says the group has notified the police about it already.



Despite the police's advice to call off the strike, the convernor told Evans Mensah that "as it stands now unless we see a court order, we have a go-ahead to go for the demonstration."



Meanwhile, sugar cane out-growers have given government a one-week ultimatum to engage members to explain to them arrangements to procure their sugar cane for the factory in Komenda.



National Executives, led by their National Chairman Samuel Mensah, held an emergency press conference to express their strong disapproval of the government's decision to import semi-refined sugar for the operation of the facility without first engaging them.

Source: myjoyonline.com









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Dataware Tech and Yadaba Communications, organisers of the acclaimed Data Analytics workshop series, have announced a new event tailored for the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and retail sector.



Scheduled for September 10-11, 2024, at the Airport View Hotel in Accra, this workshop aims to equip managers and decision-makers with the skills to leverage AI and data analytics for sustainability.



Following the successful series launch in May, the second cohort of the workshop series will start at 8:00 AM each day, providing participants with critical insights for driving innovation and sustainability in retail operations.



Nana Kojo Hagan, Team Lead for Business Intelligence at Dataware Tech, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event: "We are excited to bring together industry leaders and decision-makers for this pivotal workshop. Our goal is to empower participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to harness the power of AI and data analytics, driving both innovation and sustainability in their operations.



Mabel Korkor Ocansey, PR Executive at Yadaba Communications, highlighted the event's significance: The AI-Driven Retail Revolution workshop represents a critical step forward for the FMCG sector. By integrating advanced data analytics and AI technology, we can help organizations achieve greater efficiency and sustainability. This event is an opportunity for professionals to gain hands-on experience and insights that will be invaluable in their strategic planning and execution.



Testimonials



Participants at the inaugural workshop expressed their excitement at having their expectations met. Fuseini Amadu from Advans Ghana when asked about his experience at the workshop said, It has exceeded my expectations. I was so impressed; the class was very interactive, and the instructors are very knowledgeable about what they do.



Colbert Tagoe, from GCB Bank Ltd in an interview said, To the organizers I would say that this is a very good program, but 2 days is not enough; if you can, make it a week so that there is more hands-on for participants.



The previous cohort, which focused on the financial sector, featured representatives from various institutions including GT Bank, GCB Bank, Advans Ghana, Sunu Assurance, among others.



Key Focus Areas:



Unveiling AI in retail: Fundamental principles and applications within the Retail and FMCG sectors.

Personalization and customer-centricity: Using AI to deliver tailored customer experiences and foster loyalty.

Streamlining inventory and supply chain: Optimizing inventory management and supply chain processes.

Empowering marketing and sales strategies: Utilizing AI for impactful marketing campaigns and sales growth.

Action plan for implementation: Practical steps for applying workshop learnings to real-world scenarios.

Registration Details:



The workshop fee is GH4,000 per participant, which covers learning materials, lunch, refreshments, and a certificate of participation. An early bird discount of 10percent is available for registrations completed by August 16, 2024. Additionally, groups of four or more from the same organization can avail of a 10percent discount. To register, visit [shorturl.at/J0NFR](http://shorturl.at/J0NFR. For inquiries, contact Nana Adwoa Pepra at 0545059033 or Mabel Korkor Ocansey at 0505902672.



Dataware Tech is an award-winning technology firm specializing in data analytics and AI solutions to drive revenue growth and cost reduction. Serving clients across Ghana and other African nations, notable clients include the United Nations, UMB, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, National AfCFTA Coordinating Office, and Tropical Cables. Dataware Tech is a Microsoft authorized partner with competencies in Data & AI.



Yadaba Communications is a boutique firm offering tech-enabled communication solutions, including public relations, content marketing, digital marketing, and event management. The firm excels in crafting targeted campaigns to drive brand awareness and engagement.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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In a recent allegation, Mahama Ayariga, the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, claimed that the National Security Minister receives GH18 million each quarter to address the ongoing conflict in Bawku.



Ayariga asserted that the Akufo-Addo government, particularly the National Security Ministry, is profiting from the suffering of the people of Bawku.



In an interview on Woezor TV on Sunday, August 4, Mr Ayariga described the situation as outrageous and unacceptable.



He emphasised that the government is exploiting the conflict for financial gain while the people of Bawku continue to endure poverty and hardship.



According to Mr Ayariga, the GH18 million provided quarterly is intended to fund various security operations and initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability in Bawku.



He expressed concerns that these funds may not reach their intended targets or be used efficiently.



Mr Ayariga called for greater transparency and accountability in managing these resources, emphasising the need for a comprehensive audit to ensure that the funds are being used effectively to address the conflict.



For a long time, Bawku has been grappling with insecurity which I believe was largely created by the promises of the NPP and the report I have received which very reliable and credible document I have cited indicates that the National Security Minister takes GHS18 million quarterly in the name of dealing with the Bawku conflict which means that every month National Security Minister takes GHS6 million in the name of he dealing with the Bawku security problem while the people are struggling in poverty, he stated.



This claim has sparked significant public interest and concern, as the Bawku conflict remains one of Ghana's most pressing security issues.



Mr Ayariga's statements have brought to light questions about the allocation and utilization of these substantial funds.



The Bawku conflict, a longstanding and complex issue rooted in ethnic and chieftaincy disputes, has led to numerous casualties and widespread instability in the region.



Efforts to resolve the conflict have involved multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations.



However, Mr Ayariga's allegations suggest that despite the substantial financial resources allocated, the situation in Bawku remains volatile, raising doubts about the effectiveness of the measures being implemented.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman/Peacefmonline.com









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Flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to introduce cooperative mining in Talensi to create employment opportunities if elected in the December 7 elections.



Speaking at Talensi on Monday, August 5, 2024, during his four-day campaign tour in the Upper East Region, John Mahama stressed that cooperative mining would help boost the local economy and provide sustainable jobs for the youth and communities in the area.



He assured that the NDC will provide creative solutions to unemployment and promote economic growth.



"All the young people who are interested in mining will register cooperatives. We will get a concession for you and divide it among the cooperatives so that all of you can do your mining and earn something for yourself.



"We are going to bring graduates from the University of Mines and Technology at Tarkwa who know everything about mining and we are going to attach them to the cooperatives. So they will show you how to do the mining in a safe way and when you have finished the mining how to level the ground and plant trees on it so that the ground will be reclaimed properly. There are two mining companies - Shanxi and Cardinal, we are going to ask them to train our young people in this area. So anytime they want to employ people they must employ young people from Talensi here and the surrounding areas," the former president said in a video in GhanaWeb's possession.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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The University of Virginia Health System has completed its purchase of Warrenton-based Piedmont Family Practice, the largest primary care office in the area since 1993.

The acquisition further solidifies Charlottesville-based UVa Healths foothold in Northern Virginia, particularly after becoming the sole owner of the Novant Health in July 2021.

As of July 31, roughly 90 Piedmont Family Practice team members had transitioned over to the UVa Community Health group and the practice is now seeing patients as UVa Health.

The practices three clinical services have been rebranded as follows: Piedmont Family Practice is now UVa Health Piedmont Family Medicine Warrenton; Piedmont Urgent Care is now UVa Health Piedmont Urgent Care Warrenton; and the Bariatric and Metabolic Weight Loss Center is now UVa Health Piedmont Weight Loss Warrenton.

We are thrilled to bring this high-quality group of providers and team members into the UVa Health family of clinics, Erik Shannon, CEO of UVa Community Health, said in a statement announcing the finalization of the deal.

UVa Community Health is a network of three medical centers, specialty medical practices and outpatient services across Culpeper and Northern Virginia.

We have every confidence that this team will continue their excellent legacy of service to the Warrenton community as part of UVa Health, and we couldnt be happier to have them as colleagues, Shannon said.

Piedmont Family Practices Dr. Steven W. von Elten, the practices founding member and physician partner, said the commitment to success and exceptional care for patients has been apparent throughout this purchase agreement process.

The UVa Health team has been a great partner as we moved toward this milestone, von Elten is quoted in the statement. This is just the beginning of a journey for the Warrenton clinics as we move toward deeper technology and process integration in the months to come. Im excited about what the people, process and technology investments of UVa Health will bring to our patients as we go forward.

UVa has been making major inroads in Northern Virginia. That expansion gave the health system full ownership over three hospitals in the area: Culpeper Medical Center, Haymarket Medical Center and Prince William Medical Center.

The growth aligns with a main tenet of UVa Healths 10-year strategic plan that emphasizes the creation of a statewide health network, which CEO Dr. Craig Kent told The Daily Progress in January he hopes to eventually take beyond Virginias borders.

Our primary focus, initially, is the state of Virginia, but eventually, if we have that great quality of care, why not provide it to individuals and patients in neighboring states? said Kent. One of the reasons that were quite anxious to do this is because were quite proud. We think that the quality of care provided by UVa Health is extraordinary.

Daily Progress reporter Emily Hemphill contributed to this story.
Kwesi Pratt has bitten the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, over his comments regarding Ghana's first President and historic hero, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, on the Founders' Day.



The President, addressing the nation on August 4 which marks the Founders' Day, set the country on a controversial journey into the history of Ghana.



As widely known by all and sundry that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah led the country to attain independence in 1957, the President, in his speech, disputed the fact and notion that Nkrumah is Ghana's only founder.



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, President Akufo Addo said.



He continued that, 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 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.



But Kwesi Pratt vehemently disagrees with the President.



Speaking on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, Mr. Pratt stressed the President cannot rewrite history, stating categorically that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is the sole founder of Ghana.



He stated that Nkrumah's legacy continues to live on despite the President's attempt to normalize his achievements.



"He (Nkrumah) is the man of the millennium," he exclaimed, adding the President cannot challenge this description of Ghana's heroic leader.



To Kwesi Pratt, the President is rather ruining the chances of the New Patriotic Party and their flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win the December 7 election.



"Don't you want the NPP to win again?", he queried the President.



"The analysis is that when you take the two major political parties, none of them can win with the support of their members alone...If none of them can win with the support of their members alone, what you do is to cultivate other constituencies but this man is destroying everything", he emphasized, warning that "if the NPP loses, Nana Addo will suffer more than any person".



Watch video below





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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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









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Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, the running mate for the flag bearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has condemned the ruling government of the New Patriotic party (NPP) for running the economy into a ditch which the NDC is determined to resolve through the implementation of the 24-hour economy.



According to Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, the NDCs 24-hour economy policy will be the solution to the plethora of challenges bedeviling the economy and provide jobs for the youth.



The former Vice Chancellor for the University of Cape Coast, during her 3-day campaign tour to the Central region, paid a courtesy call on the students and members of the University community, where she emphasised that Ghana is broke, hence, the earlier the NDC brings the economic redemption to all Ghanaians, the better it will be for all and sundry.



"We dont have money, our currency is where it is heading to, which is not a good place, we cant pay our debt and we are in a crisis worse than we imagined, the NDCs Running Mate said.



According to the astute academician the high unemployment rate in the country needs the NDCs 24- Hour Economy policy for its redemption.



She noted that the unemployment rate in the country is causing NDC Flagbearer John Dramani Mahama sleepless nights, hence the decision to implement the 24-hour Economy and create decent jobs for Ghanaians.



Some people claiming to be Economists are deliberately saying it wont work and the NDC hasnt thought through it well. But interestingly, the same people are now saying, their government is already implementing the policy, she said.



Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said political campaigns are about the sharing of ideas and therefore urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to also tell Ghanaians what it can do for them.



She also urged the NPP to stop peddling falsehood, adding that one Cedi, two Cedis mobile phones cannot qualify as a policy.



Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang urged Ghanaians to vote massively for the flagbearer of the NDC, former President John Dramani Mahama in the December 7 general elections to enable him fulfill his promise of creating jobs for the teeming unemployed youth.

Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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Some chiefs and queen mothers in the Assin South Constituency in the Central Region have declared their support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming December 7 general elections.



The chiefs, including the chief of Assin Darmang and the Krontihene of Assin Engresi, all took turns to endorse the NDC when the running mate of the party, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku- Agyemang attended a community durbar at Assin Engresi on Tuesday as part of her three-day campaign tour of the Central Region.



The Krontihene of Assin Engresi, Nana Kwabena Waadie, credited NDC governments for providing them with a hospital, market and other development projects. He was hopeful that the NDC would win the 2024 general elections to continue from where the party left off.



For his part, the chief of Assin Darmang, Okofo Kwadwo Benti, praised Prof. Opoku-Agyemang for being a mother and a scholar who would give the Flagbearer of NDC, Mr John Dramani Mahama, the needed support to take Ghana to the promised land.



He declared his unflinching support for Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, saying women are good home managers, and it was a good decision that the NDC flagbearer chose the distinguished Prof. as his Running Mate.



The NDC Running Mate, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, commended the chiefs and queen mothers for their support and gave the assurance that the NDC will continue to prioritise the development of the area.



She said the next NDC administration will also prioritise job creation through the 24-hour economy and the National Apprenticeship Programme, as well as undertake massive development in infrastructure through the Big Push.



Prof Opoku Agyemang urged the electorates to vote for change by voting for Mr John Dramani Mahama to make Ghana a better place for all Ghanaians.

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James Kwabena Bomfeh has replied Ex-President John Dramani Mahama over his promise to create a new Region during his visit to the Bawku Nabas palace in the Upper East Region.



John Mahama told the people that he will ensure the creation of a new region for the Bawku area named Kusaug Region if elected President again.



He said; I discussed something with him. Your Member of Parliament, Im aware he has written a letter to the Speaker requesting that another region should be created out of the Upper East Region to cover the six constituencies in the Bawku area.



Bawku Naba raised it with me, and I told him in principle I think its a good idea for two reasons. One, for the reason of bringing government closer to the people.



Thats the principal reason for which we create new regions and new districts. And then the second reason is for security. Bawku is a special security zone because of the issues that have been happening here. And so it would be a good proposal to have a region so that it can be a focus to make sure that we deal with the security issues as well as we can.



And so, I dont think its out of place because the criteria are dependent on population, they are dependent on land size, and they are dependent on economic viability.



James Kwabena Bomfeh alias Kabila, in response on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, briefly stated; "I don't believe creation of a Region for Bawku is a solution to any problem there".





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Former CPP General Secretary, James Kwabena Bomfeh a.k.a Kabila has come to the defence of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo over his comments regarding Ghana's hero, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.



The President, speaking on Founders Day, challenged Nkrumah being the only Founder of Ghana, saying, 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.



He added; 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.



But the President, following his statement, has become a target for criticisms with some critics describing his comments as an affront to Kwame Nkrumah's legacy.



Tackling this issue during Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show, James Kwabena Bomfeh stressed Dr. Kwame Nkrumah wasn't the only person in the struggle for Ghana's independence, hence the President is correct to acknowledge others as founding members.



On whether or not President Akufo-Addo's comments are an "insult", Kabilla stated emphatically that President Akufo-Addo is the only Head of State under the 4th Republic to have highly honored Nkrumah.



"No President in the history of the 4th Republic has honored Kwame Nkrumah more than President Akufo-Addo. Creating the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day, solid! [2] Founding Ghana has never been about one man," he called on Akufo-Addo's critics to ease up on him.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama has accused President Akufo-Addo of creating diplomatic tension with neighbouring Burkina Faso.



During a press conference on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, John Mahama stated that the tension with neighboring Burkina Faso stemmed from an allegation made by the President in 2022. The President had claimed that Burkina Faso had hired Russian mercenaries and entered into an agreement with the Wagner Forces.



Today, Russian mercenaries are on our northern border. Burkina Faso has now entered into an arrangement to go along with Mali in employing the Wagner forces there, Akufo-Addo said at the US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington in 2022.



According to Mahama, the President's comment caused tension with the neighboring country, but the President has since apologized.



The Flagbearer of the NDC called for the resolution of tensions and assured that the upcoming NDC government will make efforts to amicably resolve the issues with Burkina Faso.



We know what is happening in Burkina Faso. Indeed, we should be working closer with our comrades in Burkina Faso. Unfortunately, this government has created some tension between ourselves and Burkina Faso because our President went and opened his mouth too wide...You went and was doing nkonkonsa about your neighbour. We all are here and suffering, America called you small and you are so excited and you are doing nkonkonsa about him and so it has created some diplomatic tension".



He went there and went and apologized but still it is not the best and so when government changes we have to go and talk to our neighbours. Indeed, we must work together, he added.



He assured that the next NDC government will strengthen Ghanas relationship with Burkina Faso and initiate measures to help prevent the crisis in Burkina Faso from transpiring into Ghana.



Indeed, the whole anti-terrorism strategy of this sub-region was done in Accra and so we are the host of that initiative so we must be reaching out to them and seeing how we can collaborate with them so that we quench the fire in their houses. Because if theres a fire in your neigbours house, you dont help him to put it off, it will spread to your house and so I think we must strengthen our relationship with Burkina Faso, he further stated.



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American comedian Tiffany Haddish has defended her controversial TikTok video of her visit to a supermarket in Zimbabwe, saying it was aimed at dispelling perceptions that there was "war everyday" in Africa.Haddish faced a backlash from some Zimbabweans on social media after she posted the video of her strolling through the aisles of a supermarket chain in the capital, Harare."Look at this grocery store. It's humungous, in Africa," she says in disbelief as she scans rows of shelves with soft drinks, frozen meat and fresh fruit.The video has been viewed just over 200,000 times on TikTok."How ignorant could she be? Did she think that Africans shop from rocks? She needs to travel more and unclog her sadly colonized view of the world. Yikes," raged one user on X.Another person said: "They think were chasing lions and zebras."A third person said that Americans have a "misguided perception of Africa, believing that its inhabitants live in primitive conditions, residing in mud huts, lacking access to clean water, and being devoid of modern amenities like electricity and internet".Haddish responded to the criticism on X , saying that she had been taught a false narrative about Africa."I am an American, a Black one at that, and told for years that people are starving in Africa, showed pictures of babies with flies on them."She added that she was told "crazy stories" about how Africans "kill each other" and that there is "war every day".But Haddish said that her trip to Zimbabwe has opened her eyes and that she has been "finding out the truth "about the continent"."I thought I would share cause I know people in the USA that believe Africans dont have anything," she wrote.Some have come to her defence."We like that you like our grocery store and all the products that shocked you are just basics here as well, we really arent in the forest hanging on trees," said a voice of support for the actress.The comedian is half-Eritrean and visited Eritrea for the first time in 2018.She praised long-time ruler Isaias Afwerki, who has been described by his critics as a "dictator".

Source: BBC









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Four New Jersey men have been accused of stealing hundreds of checks sent through the mail and altering them before depositing or cashing them at various banks, U.S. District Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Tracy Felder-Carter, 23, of Blackwood; Donte Ford, 28, of Pennsauken and Sewelll Quamell Keyes-Griffin, 21, and Donovan Bunch, 22, both of Sicklerville; were charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

They used arrow keys that unlock blue mailboxes to illegally collect checks and debit cards sent through the mail while also obtaining stolen mail from other sources including at least one U.S. Postal Service employee, federal authorities said.

Some of the stolen checks were advertised for sale on social media platforms, charging documents said.

The quartet worked together from June 2022 to June 2024 to skim stolen mail for checks and then altered the names and increased the values before depositing the checks into their personal accounts, authorities said.

The stolen checks were either cashed or deposited into separate accounts across South Jersey, authorities said.

All four men are scheduled to make initial appearances in federal court Tuesday, authorities said. Attorneys for the four men were not immediately listed Tuesday.

A spokesperson for the United States Postal Service in New Jersey did not immediately return a request for comment Tuesday.

Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Matt on X
A Philadelphia man being held in a Pa. state prison stomped a fellow inmate to death on Sunday, officials said.

Dwight Williams, 42, is being charged with first- and third-degree murder in the killing of Ashokkumar Guru, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer and NBC10.

Guru, 67, was serving a life sentence in the 2009 death of his wife. Guards found him unresponsive in his cell at SCI Phoenix in Collegeville at about 9:30 a.m.

Guru was lying on the ground, bloodied but still breathing, according to an affidavit. Medics determined that he had been beaten in the head, and had blood and bruising around his eyes. A shoe print was visible on his face.

An attempt was made to resuscitate him, but Guru was pronounced dead an hour later. A medical examiner ruled he died due to blunt force trauma.

Officers said they found a box lying nearby with blood on it which corroborated the appearance of an attack.

Surveillance footage inside the prison shows Williams leaving his cell to refill his water bottle at about 9:12 a.m. Sunday.

Shortly afterward, investigators said he was seen entering Gurus cell and leaving alone several minutes later. A red substance was seen on his shoe, news reports said.

Williams was sentenced in 2022 to five to 10 years for aggravated assault for shooting at an off-duty Philadelphia police officer during a fight in 2019, the Inquirer said.
EU to disburse 4.2 bln euros under Ukraine Facility

Xinhua) 08:42, August 07, 2024

BRUSSELS, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) is ready to disburse 4.2 billion euros (4.6 billion U.S. dollars) to Ukraine after the EU deemed the country's reform efforts satisfactory, the Council of the EU said on Tuesday.

According to a press release, the council gave its green light to the first tranche of regular payments of grants and loans to Ukraine under the EU's Ukraine Facility.

The conditions and reforms have been met, the council said. The reforms cover public financial management, governance of state-owned enterprises, business environment, energy and demining.

The Ukraine Facility, from which the funds will be released, entered into force in March 2024. It foresees up to 50 billion euros of financial support for the 2024-2027 period. (1 euro = 1.09 U.S. dollar)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Azerbaijani delegation led by Deputy Minister of Energy Orkhan Zeynalov participated in the first meeting of the energy ministers of the Central Asian countries, as well as in the trilateral meeting on the interconnection of the energy systems of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan held in Astana, Azernews reports.

In his remarks, Deputy Minister Orkhan Zeynalov emphasized that the political will of the heads of state to develop partnership relations between the countries opens up great opportunities for deepening bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

He noted that global initiatives and high-level events related to green energy transition and "Central Asia and Azerbaijan Energy Investment Forum" are scheduled to be held within the COP29.

Orkhan Zeynalov also held bilateral meetings with Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Uzbek Minister of Energy, and Yerlan Akkenzhenov, Vice Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan.
A nonprofit that works with school districts to assist with basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, is expanding its services into four more schools in Lebanon, York, Dauphin and Cambria counties.

Communities in Schools of Pennsylvania is expanding into Cedar Crest Middle School (Cornwall-Lebanon School District), Paradise Elementary School (Spring Grove School District), Upper Dauphin Area Middle School (Upper Dauphin Area School District), and Ferndale Area Elementary School (Ferndale Area School District).

The nonprofit was recently awarded $191,000 in Scaling for Success funding for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. The nonprofit said the funding will allow the organization to expand into these four school districts.
A mere few days ago, the political world was abuzz with anticipation that Gov. Josh Shapiro was a shoo-in as the running mate to Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris.

A week is a long time in politics, as the saying goes.
Viewers might notice a few changes when The View" returns next season.

During last Fridays episode of the ABC talk show, co-host Sunny Hostin made a huge announcement.

After 10 years and 2,143 episodes, this is the last show well do from this studio, Hostin began.

Were sad to say goodbye, but we are thrilled to be moving to a brand-new studio downtown  brand-new, state-of-the-art  and we will see you there in September for the premiere of season 28! she concluded.

From its launch in 1997 until 2024, production of the show was held at ABC Television Studio 23 in New York City. In 2014, the talk show moved its set to ABC Broadcast Center. Now, after 10 years, the show is looking to start fresh in a new space, according to multiple outlets, including Closer and TV Line.

The 55-year-old shared how its been for her and her co-hosts to box up their belongings and prepare for the big move.

Weve had to, for the past couple of weeks, box up things, get rid of things  We were allotted, each host, five huge cartons. I took up two, Sara [Haines] took up all five and was looking for more! she shared.

And Ana [Navarro], please dont say that you were a purger, because I think you had over 50 pairs of shoes in your [dressing] room, Hostin mentioned.

Im feeling attacked! Navarro, 52, shot back. They are all my shoes, I love all my shoes! I have no children, my children are my shoes. Im a childless shoe lady!

The ABC daytime talk shows official Instagram page also posted about the new studio.

Get ready for a new View as we end this chapter after 10 years in our studio on New York Citys Upper West Side! See you in September from our new, state-of-the-art studio in downtown Manhattan when we kick off season 28! Heres a look behind the scenes of our photoshoot for this past season in studio TV1, the post said, coupled with pictures of the hosts.

Season 28 of The View will premiere after Labor Day.
From LNP, Lancaster, Pa. (TNS)

A specialty coffee truck took top honors at Lancasters Best Food Truck Competition Aug. 3 at Roots Old Mill Flea Market, south of Manheim.

Lynn & Gray Coffee Co., a family-owned mobile coffee trailer that serves espresso, specialty and seasonal drinks, matcha, chai and more, won both Best Food Truck and overall top honors in the Drinks division at the competition.

The list of winners were released Monday by Joyful Doberman Rescue of PA, the nonprofit that organized the competition. The event was a fundraiser for the rescue group.

A panel of about 40 judges  some representing Lancaster restaurants  chose winners in several categories and then named overall first-, second- and third-place finishers for the contest. Each category had at least four trucks competing.

Second place overall went to Gourmet Julies Way, which also won best of the other category. The truck also came in second in the Community Choice contest, determined by the votes of those attending the event and sampling the food. Gourmet Julies Way serves hand-held dishes including mini cornbread bowls, burger and pork sliders, crab hush puppies, mac and cheese balls and pie.

Third in the judging was Scoops Ice Cream and Grille, which also won best frozen dessert truck.

First in the Community Choice vote was the Cool Beans Brew coffee and specialty drink truck, and third was the Walk-O Taco truck. The judges also named Walk-o Taco best in the Mexican/Latin category.

This was the second year for the food truck competition.
A team deployed on a Jersey Shore beach, which is at least somewhat contaminated, has so far removed a significant amount of the materials, New Jersey officials confirmed Tuesday.

The NY/NJ Baykeeper on July 16 informed the states Department of Environmental Protection that potentially hazardous pieces were found onshore  not too far from a former landfill and mere miles from a known toxic site.

So far, tests show that most of what has been sampled by the state was high not for lead  as initially feared  but for arsenic levels, according to regulators.

During the week of July 29, the DEP removed 19 drums of the material from the beach, Larry Hajna, a NJDEP spokesperson, told NJ Advance Media on Tuesday afternoon.

Ten samples were analyzed for metals, Hajna added. While tests have found very small concentrations of lead that are well below direct contact standards, most of the samples were found to have elevated concentrations of arsenic.

The cleanup on the popular stretch of Raritan Bay beach in Keyport appears to still be ongoing this week, a bay advocate said.

A portion of the shore  where families often visit in the summer and fishermen cast out their lines or crab  was cordoned off at the end of July as crews began to remove the larger potentially toxic pieces as part of an investigation to find where the material came from. Signs have also been posted warning visitors not to touch the material or accidentally ingest it.

As of Tuesday afternoon the source of the material is still unknown and the matter continues to be investigated, the state said.

What Greg Remaud, CEO NY/NJ Baykeeper thinks is slag in Keyport, NJ on Monday, July 15, 2024Ed Murray| For NJ Advance Media

Based on test results provided to NJ Advance Media, the materials that were tested showed:

Lead levels that ranged from 0.91 parts per million to 12.6 parts per million (defined as below the residential soil remediation standard of 200 parts per million)

Arsenic levels that ranged from 12.7 parts per million to 128 parts per million

Hajna, of the NJDEP, said: Arsenic can be naturally occurring in New Jerseys geology, therefore the residential and non-residential soil remediation standards for arsenic is set at 19 parts per million. There were no exceedances of residential soil remediation standards for any metals in sand that was analyzed.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the CDC, outlines the health impacts of arsenic here. The risks depend on the level of exposure, including the amount and duration.

Once the discovery of the materials was first reported by NJ Advance Media last month, U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-6th Dist., called on the Environmental Protection Agency, the EPA, to look into the matter. The NJDEP then took the lead. The agencys commissioner said thus far it appears the area where the materials are spread is limited.

Greg Remaud, an advocate with the NY/NJ Baykeeper, believes the pieces were likely illegally dumped at the site in Keyport. Federal regulators previously said that is more likely than the materials washing down from the Superfund site about four miles away.

Remaud said Tuesday afternoon that he continues to visit the site and push for any responsible parties to be held accountable.

Amid reports of the contamination in July, residents and advocates noted that the slag-like pieces resembled lead materials previously produced by NL Industries (formerly National Lead), the company blamed for dumping in the Raritan Bay nearby.

Aeromarine, once an airplane hangar, has a history of environmental issues near the Keyport site too. That facility, now an industrial park for several businesses, was previously hit with lawsuit (initially filed by Keyport but later taken over by the state) over allegations a landfill there was not properly capped, which could mean more pollution.

Neither company has commented on the claims in Keyport.
By Bassem Mroue, The Associated Press

BEIRUT  Hamas on Tuesday named Yahya Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, as its new leader in a dramatic sign of the power of the Palestinian militant groups hardline wing after his predecessor was killed in a presumed Israeli strike in Iran.

The selection of Sinwar, a secretive figure close to Iran who worked for years to build up Hamas military strength, was a defiant signal that the group is prepared to keep fighting after 10 months of destruction from Israels campaign in Gaza and after the assassination of Sinwars predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh.

It is also likely to provoke Israel, which has put him at the top of its kill list after the Oct. 7 attack, in which militants killed 1,200 people in southern Israel and took about 250 as hostages.

The announcement comes at volatile moment. Fears are high of an escalation into a wider regional war, with Iran vowing revenge against Israel over Haniyehs killing and Lebanons Hezbollah threatening to retaliate over Israels killing of one of its top commanders in an airstrike in Beirut last week. American, Egyptian and Qatari mediators are trying to salvage negotiations over a cease-fire and hostage release deal in Gaza, shaken by Haniyeh killing.

Hamas said in a statement it named Sinwar as the new head of its political bureau to replace Haniyeh, who was killed in a blast that Iran and Hamas blamed on Israel. Israel has not confirmed or denied responsibility. 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.

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 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.

Mediators have been struggling to push through a U.S.-backed outline for a deal, but talks have hit obstacles, particularly over its centerpiece terms  a release of all of Hamas remaining hostages in return for an end to the war and a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

Hamas has demanded guarantees from mediators that an initial cease-fire will continue until terms for that exchange are worked out. Israeli leaders have threatened to resume fighting to eliminate Hamas after an initial partial hostage release.

In Washington, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sinwar has been and remains the primary decider when it comes to concluding the cease-fire.

He said Sinwar must 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  It really is on him.

As Hamas leader inside Gaza since 2017, Sinwar rarely appeared in public but kept an iron grip on Hamas rule over the territory. Close to Deif and Qassam Brigades, he worked to build up the groups military capabilities.

In one of his few appearances, Sinwar ended a public speech in Gaza by inviting Israel to assassinate him, proclaiming, I will walk back home after this meeting. He then did so, shaking hands and taking selfies with people in the streets.

He has been in deep hiding since the Oct. 7 attacks, which triggered Israels campaign of bombardment and offensives aimed at destroying Hamas. The death toll among Palestinians is now nearing 40,000, most of the population of 2.3 million has been driven from their homes, and large swaths of Gazas towns and cities have been destroyed. In May, prosecutors at the International Criminal Court sought an arrest warrant against Sinwar on charges of war crimes over the Oct. 7 attack, as well as against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israels defense minister for war crimes.

A wounded Palestinian arrives at a hospital after an Israeli airstrike in Deir al Balah, Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)AP

Hugh Lovatt, an expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the European Council on Foreign Relations. said the elimination of other top figures cleared the way for Sinwar. Two weeks ago, few would have expected Sinwar to be the groups next leader despite the strong influence he exerts from Gaza, he said.

The killing of Haniyeh, a relative moderate, not only opened the path for Sinwar to claim full control of Hamas, but also appears to have tipped the group into a more hardline direction, he said.

Associated Press writers Kareem Chehayeb and Sarah El Deeb in Beirut contributed to this report.

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
The United States State Department is urging citizens not to travel to the South Asian country of Bangladesh due to civil unrest, crime, and terrorism.

The department issued a Level 4 travel advisory earlier this week. Level 4, Do Not Travel, is the departments highest advisory.

The department also ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members on Aug. 5,

Travelers, the advisory said, should avoid the area due to current civil unrest. Violent clashes have occurred in the city of Dhaka and its neighboring areas, as well as elsewhere in the country. The Bangladeshi Army is deployed nationwide.

Anyone who is traveling to the country should check with their airlines to confirm their flights status, as Dhakas Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport temporarily paused operations on Aug. 5.

Travelers should also be aware of petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded areas, the advisory said. Muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking comprise most of the criminal activity in Bangladeshs major cities, but the advisory said that there are no signs that foreigners in particular are being targeted.

The advisory also warned that terrorist attacks can happen with little or no warning, and that terrorists target public areas like tourist locations, shopping malls, restaurants, places of worship, school campuses, and government facilities.

The advisory also warned that U.S. officials in Bangladesh might have limited ability to provide emergency services due to travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and limited resources.

Bangladesh is located to the east of India along the Bay of Bengal. The former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, fled the country on Monday following a month of unrest and protests demanding Hasinas resignation.

If you are still planning to travel to Bangladesh, the department recommends the following:
WILLIAMSPORT  A Centre County journalist has agreed to plead guilty to a federal charge of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in prostitution.

An agreement to plead guilty signed by Christopher Z. Morelli, 54, of Spring Twp., was filed Tuesday in U.S. Middle District Court simultaneously with criminal information containing the charge.

That document provides no details other than the suspended managing editor of the Centre County Gazette is accused of engaging in that activity between July 2022 and last October.

However, charges on which Morelli is awaiting trial in one of two cases in Centre County provide more information.

In that one, he is charged with unlawful contact with a minor and criminal use of a communication device with the offense date listed as July 2023.

According to the state charges, Spring Twp. police were contacted by the FBI last September regarding Morellis involvement with an undercover agent.

The following is taken from the police affidavit:

The agent, posing as a 14-year-old girl, began talking to Morelli on a social media platform on July 23, 2022, he told her he lived near Penn State and they exchanged phone numbers.

Morelli through texts and messages requested explicit pictures from her, sent her pictures of himself and attempted to meet the female he was aware was underage.

He also talked about holding a photo shoot in his hotel room, requested specific poses for it and twice tried to set times to pick her up.

Morelli continued to solicit pictures from the minor as late as last October and he stayed in contact with the agent into December when he was arrested.

He is accused in the other state case of sending sexual messages and providing alcohol to a 14-year-old girl from the Bellefonte area in September 2011.

He is charged with criminal solicitation to commit statutory sexual assault and corruption of minors. The federal criminal information makes no mention of that case.
Hours after he was passed over as Vice President Kamala Harris vice president pick, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro gave a rousing speech at a Philadelphia rally for Harris and running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Shapiro opened by thanking the crowd for a rowdy welcome on the Temple University campus.
WELLSBORO  A suspended state trooper is asking Attorney General Michelle A. Henry to condemn what he claims was misconduct by four of the Tioga County jurors who found him guilty of vehicular homicide.

Michael Brown contends that three of the four gave false answers while under oath during the jury selection process and the fourth violated a court order to refrain from social media posts about the case.

One would think the attorney general would recognize that the alleged juror misconduct deserves criminal investigation and criminal prosecution, Browns attorney Peter Paul Olszewski Jr., wrote in a court filing Monday.
As first reported by ESPNs Adam Schefter, the New England Patriots have withdrawn from the Brandon Aiyuk sweepstakes. Of the reported teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns remain. However, it seems that Aiyuk is dead set on going to Pittsburgh, while the 49ers need the right compensation to move him.

The Steelers and 49ers have gone back and forth about the trade for months, but only now are the 49ers receptive to these offers. Pittsburgh appears to be the front-runner in the sweepstakes, as Aiyuk has the leverage to veto a trade.

Aiyuk wants to be one of the top receivers in the NFL, which means over $30 million annually. While the Patriots were seemingly willing to pay him and gave the 49ers a package they liked, Aiyuks refusal to sign a long-term contract with the Patriots held it up. That is why Aiyuk is not in Cleveland or New England.

With all that in mind, if the 49ers are going to move Aiyuk, the Steelers seem like the natural landing spot. He could pair with George Pickens to create a dynamic wide receiver duo on the outside and put a bow on what appears to be a completely reshaped offense for Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
Latrobe, Pa. -- Van Jefferson is having an excellent training camp. But while he thought he might be competing for the WR2 role, the Steelers interest in San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk could throw that all for a loop.

For someone like Jefferson, who is having an excellent camp as he clamps down on the WR2 role, he can not focus on Aiyuk, even though the Steelers wide receivers and everyone else in the building know just how dynamic and talented Aiyuk is on a down-to-down basis.
Forget the Republican spin. Donald Trump responded to Tim Walz joining the ticket by trying to get Joe Biden back into the race.

Trump posted on Truth Social:

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. He feels that he made a historically tragic mistake by handing over the U.S. Presidency, a COUP, to the people in the World he most hates, and he wants it back, NOW!!!

Trump wants Biden back because he is losing to Vice President Harris, and it is telling that the ex-presidents reaction to Harris adding Tim Walz to the ticket was to come up with a fantasy scenario where Joe Biden comes back and reclaims the Democratic nomination.

Trump seems more upset that Joe Biden has left the race than Biden is. Trump hasnt stopped complaining since Biden decided not to seek a second term.

If Trump felt great about Tim Walz , he would not be trying to think of a way to get Biden back.

Donald Trump designed his entire campaign around running against Joe Biden. It has been weeks, and his campaign has come up with nothing to use against Kamala Harris. Trump hasnt pivoted. The ex-president cant move on. Donald Trump is reacting to the Harris-Walz ticket by sitting at home at Mar-a-Lago and pining for Joe Biden to come back.
A crowd of potentially tens of thousands has gathered in Wisconsin for Kamala Harris and running mate Tim Walz.

Jake Taylor of NBC News posted this crowd video in Wisconsin:

EAU CLAIRE, Wisconsin  Chants of This is what democracy looks like break out as thousands await @KamalaHarris pic.twitter.com/7ZEWT5T9Sf  Jake Traylor (@jake__traylor) August 7, 2024

Harris and Walz filled up the arena on the campus of Temple University in Philadelphia on Tuesday and they have followed it up with what could be an even bigger crowd in Wisconsin on Wednesday afternoon.

The momentum that has been visible for the Democratic ticket in polling and in fundraising is also manifesting itself in crowd size. Harris and Walz are drawing huge crowds and presenting Trump with something that he has never faced before.

The Democratic coalition is more unified behind Harris and Walz than they were behind Clinton and Kaine in 2016. The 2020 election was held in the midst of a pandemic and was a referendum on Trump and desire for the majority of Americans to return competency to the White House.

The 2024 election with Kamala Harris at the top of the ticket has seen a return of voter excitement and enthusiasm.

Trump needs a depressed electorate with low turnout in order to win.

The election could quickly get away from Trump and the Republican Party. It hasnt slipped away yet, but the large crowds that Harris is drawing is a sign of an electorate that is ready to go in a new direction.
The city of Forest Acres has finalized a rule that restricts where vape shops are allowed to operate, in a move similar to other local municipalities. Read moreForest Acres votes to restrict where vape shops can go in the city
Press releases touting new brunch offerings are floated into my inbox often. That's because operating this service at least once a week has become commonplace for many local restaurants, especially in downtown Charleston.

Some of the newer options to land in the Lowcountry in the past year have me cautiously optimistic about a service that can be overdone. The establishments below, though, have dedicated time and effort into their brunch programs rather than just throwing a menu together with leftover ingredients from the dinner service.

From a $30 all-you-can-eat buffet downtown to a surprising newcomer in North Charleston, heres the scoop on five new brunch services in the Lowcountry:

159 Market St., downtown Charleston

Benjamin Boisson, Dominique Chantepie and his son Mathis Chantepie opened Azur more than a year ago, serving a French menu with Spanish and Italian influences. Lunch and brunch are served together Friday through Monday at the restaurant, making it a useful place for those in search of brunch on days not named Sunday.

Expect shrimp and avocado toast plus a beef burger on a bun made using croissant dough. Crepes and quiche represent items that are more classically French-inspired.

The inside dining room is centered around a stunning bar with ocean-blue tile and a wood-frame display filled with bottles of vodka, tequila and whiskey. Those factor into Azurs collection of cocktails, including the Mon Cheri, with creme de cassis, Campari, sweet vermouth, mezcal and tequila.

Diners young and old filled the space on a recent Friday in the early afternoon. Many crowded the tan cushioned seats along the bar, sipping on mimosas, white wine and americanos while chatting with the bartender. Couples cozied into booths, and families gathered around tables near the window looking out on the patio.

While there are decadent options, Azurs brunch menu highlights the kind of light, bright flavors to keep guests energized after a meal. Take the spinach and goat cheese quiche, whose burnished crust conceals fluffy eggs broken up by bits of green. Dollops of tart goat cheese float to the top.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. High 74F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 64F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph.
Summerville, SC (29483)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. High 74F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 62F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Written by Elizabeth Boatwright Coker's daughter, Penelope Coker Hall, and granddaughter, Eliza Wilson Ingle, A Curious Heart: The Life & Letters of Elizabeth Boatwright Coker chronicles the life and work of the award-winning author. Read moreA Curious Heart, biography of South Carolinas First Lady of Letters  Elizabeth Boatwright Coker  to be released by Evening Post Books on October 14, 2024
Mount Pleasant, SC (29464)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High 74F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 64F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph.
Council hot seats

KJ Ullfers initially applied to replace Rebecca Grizzle in 2010 after she resigned from her seat in Ward 2, which represents much of downtown Lebanon and the citys northwest, including a medical school, veterans home and 1.4 million-square-foot warehouse.

Instead, councilors appointed Margaret Campbell, who resigned after about two years in October 2012.

Grizzle won reelection and served until 2021, when she moved out of her ward, and the council selected Ullfers to fill the remainder of her four-year term that ends in December.

She still serves on the city's appointed body helping leaders draft their annual budget.

Ullfers helped found Crossroads Communities, the nonprofit that runs low-income veteran housing at Applegate Landing and that secured congressional funding for case-managed housing meant to move people off the streets.

Wayne Dykstra did not file to run for a second term representing Ward 1  western Lebanon, centered around Airport Road and including large pending housing developments.

Dykstra narrowly beat Zach Beck, then a Lebanon High School senior, to fill an open seat on the council in 2020  the sole contested race that year.

Dominic Conti, also serving on the citys budget committee, will run unopposed for Dykstras open seat.

Conti is named as a cofounder in Graves Productions, the incorporation of Jeannie Graves whose activities in Oregon business filings include cleaning lady, kitchen witchery, photography and Conti Custom Auto.

Jeremy Salvage is running without opposition for the Ward 3 seat in which hes served since 2022, when he became the third appointee to Lebanon's six-person elected council.

Dykstra and Ullfers backed Salvage to replace then-Council President Jason Bolen who vacated the position for a division chief job with Bend Fire and rescue.
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On the horizon: Ingenuity, expansions, and customer-centric initiatives under the leadership of industry veteran and President Michael Neal.PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 /AAA Distributor, a trailblazer in the home improvement industry for more than 15 years, is proud to announce the launch of new innovative products in stock, strategic expansions, and customer-centric initiatives while forming a partnership with the Builders Association to augment its offerings in commercial and wholesale residential markets. AAA Distributor is also boosting its focus on online sales and optimizing the delivery of products while remaining eco-friendly."This exciting phase underscores our commitment to enhancing the customer experience and setting new standards in the industry," said Michael Neal, President of AAA Distributor. "We are incredibly excited about the future and the opportunities it holds. This new chapter is about more than just growth; it's about innovation, sustainability, and, above all, delivering exceptional value to our customers. We look forward to continuing our journey with our loyal customers and welcoming new ones." Innovative Product LaunchesAs part of its dedication to staying at the forefront of home improvement solutions, AAA Distributor is thrilled to offer several cutting-edge product assortments to meet its customers' evolving needs, including introducing new fiberglass entry doors tailored for residential construction projects.Strategic ExpansionsTo better serve its growing customer base, AAA Distributors currently has three warehouse locations: Surplus Building Materials in Dallas, The Ugly Duck Warehouse in Spokane, and its original location in Philadelphia, also known as USA Distributor, with plans for more venues.New Store Openings: New showrooms are planned for North Texas, South Texas, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Each showroom is designed to provide a superior shopping experience with modern layouts and knowledgeable staff.Online Platform Enhancements: AAA Distributor has significantly upgraded its online platform, recognizing the importance of digital convenience. The revamped website features a user-friendly interface, comprehensive product information, and an improved e-commerce experience, making it easier for customers to shop online.Websites: To meet their customers' needs, AAA Distributor has six websites: its main website aaadistributor.com; one for each of its stores (Philadelphia, PA: www.usadistributor.com , Farmers Branch, TX: www.sbmtx.com , and Spokane, WA: www.uglyduckwarehouse.com); www.aaadoors.com focusing on a variety of interior, barn and exterior doors; www.allcabinets.com specializing on all the cabinet brands carried by AAA Distributor; and RTAHQ.com for kitchen and bath products, including iron and fiberglass doors for the exterior.Customer-Centric InitiativesProfessional contractors, wholesalers, DIYers, pro-installers, homeowners and online shoppers are customers at the heart of everything AAA Distributor does. Several customer-centric initiatives have been introduced to ensure the company continues to meet their needs and exceed their expectations:Enhanced Customer Support: The customer support team has been expanded with new channels for assistance, including live chat and a dedicated helpline.Community Engagement: AAA Distributor is deepening its involvement in local communities through various initiatives, including local sponsorships, home improvement workshops, and charitable projects.Free Kitchen Design Service and Financing Options: To assist consumers in their home improvement projects, AAA Distributor offers free kitchen design services and attractive financing options to make purchases more accessible.Expanding Capabilities and PartnershipsBuilders Association Partnership and Commercial/Wholesale Residential: AAA Distributor's new partnership with the Builders Association enhances its offerings in commercial and wholesale residential markets.Delivery and Installation Services in Texas: AAA Distributor offers comprehensive delivery and installation services in Texas with a specific focus on doors, kitchen, and bath products.Countertop SFI Program in Philadelphia and Texas: In partnership with USA Granite, a new Countertop SFI program has been launched to better serve the Philadelphia and Texas markets.Focus on Online and Eco-Friendly PracticesAmazon and Online Focus: AAA Distributor is increasing its emphasis on online sales to complement its commitment to a seamless shopping experience across all platforms. The company has optimized its ability to ship and package products professionally for platforms like Amazon.Eco-Friendly, Carbon-Neutral Commitment: AAA Distributor is dedicated to maintaining an eco-friendly, carbon-neutral supply chain that extends internationally to ensure a diverse and sustainable supply chain. AAA Distributor remains dedicated to elevating the home improvement experience and continuing to set industry standards, ensuring every customer finds exceptional value and unparalleled service, both online and in-store.For more information on AAA Distributor, please visit https://aaadistributor.com About AAA DistributorHeadquartered in Philadelphia, AAA Distributor is a distributor, wholesaler, and retailer of kitchen, bathroom and flooring home improvement and remodeling products. AAA Distributor's large showroom (120,000 square feet) in Philadelphia offers samples, displays, and free 3D design services with the assistance of 12 full-time interior designers. AAA designs and imports its own proprietary product line, LessCare, which includes cabinetry, vanities, bath furnishings, plumbing supplies, flooring and fixtures. In addition to warehouse locations in Philadelphia, Surplus Building Materials in Dallas and The Ugly Duck Warehouse in Spokane, AAA Distributor has showrooms in the Southeast and Northeast U.S.Contact InformationBuse KayarMedia and Content Managerbuse.kayar@issuerdirect.com SOURCE: AAA DistributorView the original press release on newswire.com
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NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION INTO THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICESVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 /American Potash Corp. (CSE:KCL) ("American Potash" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of up to 13,000,000 units ("Units") at a price of $0.05 to raise gross proceeds of up to $650,000 (the "Private Placement"). Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one additional common share at an exercise price of $0.10 for a period of two years following closing of the Private Placement.The Company may pay finder's fees in the amount of 7% cash and issue finder's warrants equal to 7% of the number of Units placed by such finder on all or a portion of the Private Placement. The finder's warrants will have the same terms of the Warrants forming part of the Units.The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Private Placement for permitting on its properties and for working capital. Completion of the Private Placement remains subject to the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange.On behalf of the Board of DirectorsDean Besserer, President & CEOCautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking InformationThis news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Such statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the statements regarding completion of the Private Placement and the use of the net proceeds of the Private Placement. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that such expectations will prove to be correct. All such forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. This information, however, is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from this forward-looking information include the Company's ability to locate suitable investors for the Private Placement or obtain the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange, management's discretion to re-allocate the net proceeds of the Private Placement, as well as those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or revise the forward-looking information contained in this news release, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.CONTACT:1100-1199 West Hastings St.Vancouver , BC Canada V6E 3T5 T 780 916 5782 E deanb@ americanpotash.com SOURCE: American Potash Corp.
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Contact Hagens Berman to Join Class Action Against ABRSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Hagens Berman urges Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ABR) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: May 7, 2021 - July 11, 2024Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Sept. 30, 2024Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/ABR Contact the Firm Now: ABR@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Securities Class Action Against Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (ABR):Arbor Realty Trust is under mounting pressure from investors and regulators as a surge in delinquent loans casts a shadow over the company's financial health. The multifamily lender reported disappointing second-quarter earnings on August 2, with a 10% jump in delinquencies to $1 billion highlighting the deteriorating quality of its loan portfolio.The earnings miss comes as Arbor is facing a class-action lawsuit alleging the company misled investors about its financial performance. Filed in late July in the Eastern District of New York, the suit claims Arbor painted an overly optimistic picture of its business, particularly the quality of its loan book.Investor concerns about Arbor's financial health emerged in Mar. 2023 when NINGI Research questioned the value of the company's real estate holdings, particularly its mobile home portfolio. The report triggered a decline in Arbor's stock price as investors digested the implications for the company's overall financial performance.The pressure on Arbor intensified in Dec. 2023, when activist short seller Viceroy Research released a scathing report alleging widespread issues with the company's loan book. The report further eroded investor confidence, sending the stock price lower.However, the most significant blow to Arbor came on July 12, 2024, when news of a federal investigation into the company's lending practices broke. The revelation sent the stock price into a tailspin, wiping out billions in shareholder value."We are looking into allegations that Arbor misled investors about the true nature of its business risks," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Arbor and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses now If you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Arbor case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Arbor should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email ABR@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation firm focusing on corporate accountability. The firm is home to a robust practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and other wrongdoings. Hagens Berman's team has secured more than $2.9 billion in this area of law. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Contact:Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Levi & Korsinsky notifies investors that it has commenced an investigation of The Chemours Company ("The Chemours Company") (NYSE:CC) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws.Chemours issued a press release on August 1, 2024, reporting its financial results for the second quarter of 2024. Among other items, Chemours reported non-GAAP earnings per share of $0.38, missing consensus estimates by $0.20. The Company advised that it "anticipates a low to mid-single digit sequential decline in Net Sales for the third quarter," citing "[r]esidual impacts from Q2 unplanned downtime at our Altamira, Mexico manufacturing site" in its Titanium Technologies segment; "[r]efrigerant seasonality paired with weaker Freon Refrigerants pricing in its Thermal & Specialized Solutions segment; and "[a] continued modest recovery in" its Advanced Performance Materials segment. Following this news, Chemours's stock price dropped over 11% on August 2, 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
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iOS App Development Services are Now Available for Anyone Who Wants to Develop an MVP App, Fix an Existing iOS App or Convert a Swift or Objective-C App Into FlutterTORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 /Brian Kayfitz Development Corporation is an app development agency that now offers freelance iOS developer services. Instead of hiring a large mobile app agency, anyone interested can now hire Brian Kayfitz to help with app development, fix any issues with a current app or add new features to an existing app.iOS App Development As an iOS freelancer, Brian Kayfitz can help with the following problems:MVP App DevelopmentAdding New Features to Existing AppsDoing iOS Code ReviewsTraining and Mentoring Other App DevelopersBug FixesTechnical Strategy and Audit"Working with companies and app development agencies, I realized that there is a lack of services around existing app maintenance or MVP apps. Most mobile app development agencies will work with you in creating your app, and they may do maintenance. If you build it in-house, you may have technical issues that arise during development, which someone needs to help with. And if you decide to go with an offshore team to fix an existing app or add features to an existing app, the quality may not be there. And for those companies or individuals that have great app ideas but no technical expertise and want to test the market, hiring big agencies does not make financial sense. Therefore, I have decided to help companies, mobile app agencies and individuals with their app development needs from bug fixes to MVP development or mentoring teams of developers. I am here to help bring the app to its final stages of launch or update," said Brian Kayfitz, iOS freelance developer.To learn more about Brian Kayfitz's innovative iOS freelance services and how they can help you with your app, please visit briankayfitz.com About Brian Kayfitz Development CorporationBrian Kayfitz Development Corporation is a mobile app agency started by Brian Kayfitz, a senior app developer. Kayfitz has worked on over 20 apps, co-authored the Flutter Cookbook published by Packt, and mentored developers all over the world.He started his career as a game developer, and when iOS was launched, he wrote apps in Objective-C. He later transitioned to writing apps in Java, Swift, Kotlin and Flutter. He has built award-winning apps and his apps are being used by millions of users, in multiple app categories. After opening his agency in 2020, Kayfitz decided instead of expanding by hiring more developers, designers and project managers, he would instead stay as a freelance iOS developer. Now, he is an iOS developer for hire.Contact InformationBrian KayfitzCEObrian@ briankayfitz.com SOURCE: Brian Kayfitz Development CorporationView the original press release on newswire.com
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Common shares to resume trading at the opening on August 8th, 2024MDN operations are performing well with Q2/24 production of 16,255 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO")Full-Year production guidance of 50,000 - 60,000 GEO at AISC of US$1,200-1,400/ozRecent PEA results for MDN show an NPV (5%) of $111MM at $2100/oz gold over a 5-year mine plan producing an average of approximately 56,000 GEO per annumLife of Mine Average annual EBITDA of US$49 Million and FCF of US$25 MillionLOM average EBITDA of US$64 Million and FCF of US$29 Million at Spot prices1Additional US$45 million cash expected between March 2025-2027 from the sale of the Monte do Carmo project in BrazilSecond crusher on site is being commissioned to support further expansion of heap leach operationsOperating cashflow continues to support the strengthening of the balance sheetTORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Cerrado Gold Inc. (TSXV:CERT)(OTCQX:CRDOF) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to its news release of June 27, 2024, the Company has been advised by the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") that trading of the Company's common shares on the Exchange will resume at the opening of the market on August 8, 2024.Further, as previously released on July 17, 2024, the Company is pleased to announce that operations at its wholly-owned Minera Don Nicolas project in Argentina continue to perform well during a typically challenging winter period. As previously announced, production for Q2 was 16,255 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") as production from the heap leach continues to perform well. A second crusher has now arrived at site and will be installed to support a further expansion of capacity at the Calandrias Sur heap leach operation.First half of 2024, production of 27,459 GEO has been achieved. The Company is guiding for 2024 total production of between 50,000-60,000 GEO at an All-In-Sustaining Cost between US$1,200-US$1,400/oz.Improved operating performance and ongoing strength in gold prices continue to support the repayment of local debt and payables in Argentina, and we expect to see a material reduction in our negative working capital position going forward.In addition, as outlined in a press release dated August 6th, 2024, Cerrado announced the results of an 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 (Chile), and a summary of the results is presented below.PEA Summary ResultsThe PEA highlights a robust 5-year mine life using our current inventory of mineralized material. As high-grade material from our Calandrias Norte pit is exhausted, the heap leach at Calandrias Sur and a second potential heap leach at Martinetas will generate strong cashflows, allowing the Company to support continued deleveraging while refocusing efforts on exploration to add additional high-grade ounces to the mine plan, support underground development and expand the life of mine.Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman commented, "With operations performing well, the heap leach hitting its stride and trading resuming in our shares, we are now putting behind us what has been a very challenging period for the Company. Going forward, strong operating results leading to an improved financial position as supported by our recently completed PEA for MDN, and the potential for additional cash proceeds of US$45MM over the coming years if the option to purchase the Company's Monte Do Carmo Project in Brazil is exercised, positions Cerrado as a well-funded junior producer refocused on growth through exploration and development." About CerradoCerrado 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 under option to Amarillo Mineracao Do Brasil Ltda., a subsidiary of Hochschild Mining PLC. 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 ChairmanMike McAllisterVice President, Investor RelationsTel: +1-647-805-5662 mmcallister@ cerradogold.com 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 i
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 14:31:19

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LAGOS, NIGERIA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Continental Lithium Limited ("Continental," or the "Company"), a leading mining and trading company out of Nigeria focused on the exploration, mining, trading, and exporting of solid mineral ores, including lithium, tin, columbite-tantalite, zircon sand (brown), and monazite to the U.S., Europe, and Asia, today announced that it had changed its name to Continental Critical Minerals, Inc., a move designed to more accurately reflect the Company's diverse portfolio of critical minerals and expanding operations."The name change to Continental Critical Minerals is a strategic decision to align our brand with the breadth of our operations," said Pierce Carson, CEO of Continental. "While we will continue to focus on the expansive opportunity for lithium, we have an established history of producing and exporting a wide range of critical minerals. Our new name better represents our diverse portfolio and expanding global market position." With control of 34 mining licenses covering 787 square kilometers (194,570 acres) in Nigeria, Continental holds substantial critical mineral assets including lithium, tin, columbite, zircon sand, and monazite containing rare earth elements. These licenses position the Company as a key player in mining lithium and various critical minerals."This rebranding more accurately reflects who we are and what we do," said Ronald Onosode, co-founder and COO of Continental. "Our business has always been about more than just lithium. By adopting the name Continental Critical Minerals, we acknowledge the significant contributions of all the minerals we produce and export and our growing role in the critical minerals supply chain." In 2023 and 2024, sales of non-lithium assets such as columbite and zircon sand constituted most of Continental's overall sales, highlighting the importance of these minerals in the Company's portfolio. This revenue distribution strongly supports the decision to rebrand and better reflect the comprehensive nature of the Company's exploration, mining, trading, and exporting operations.Columbite, the dominant niobium mineral, is critical in various industries. When alloyed with steel, it forms a weldable material used in heat-sensitive devices and radio-transmitting valves. When used in alloys, its superconductive properties enhance their strength, making them invaluable in numerous industrial applications. Furthermore, columbite-tantalite, colloquially known as coltan, is instrumental in tantalum capacitors in electronic devices, including mobile phones, automotive systems, and medical devices. The niobium mineral market is forecasted to reach $1.7 billion by 2027, according to IndustryARC.Zircon (ZrSiO4) is a naturally occurring refractory mineral in certain sand deposits. It is known for its chemical inertness and stability at high temperatures and is used in various applications, including foundry, ceramic, refractory, and precision casting. The global zircon sand market was valued at $2.7 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2024 to 2033. It is expected to reach $6.2 billion by 2033. The Asia-Pacific region consumes nearly 40% of the output, while other major consumers include Europe, North America, South America, and the Middle East-Africa (Brainy Insights, June 2024).About Continental Critical MineralsFounded in 2017, Continental commenced small-scale mining in collaboration with artisanal miners in 2018. Over the last six years, the underlying assets acquired by Continental have produced concentrates of lithium (spodumene), columbite, zircon sand, and monazite containing rare earth elements. The Company has plans to develop its lithium and critical mineral assets and substantially increase its production for export to the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Continental controls 34 minerals licenses covering 787 square kilometers (194,570 acres) acquired from the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office. Learn more at https://continental-lithium.com/ Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other important factors that could cause the Company's actual results, performance, or achievements or industry results to differ materially from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control. The words "believe", "may", "will", "should", "would", "could", "continue", "seeks", "anticipates", "plans", "expects", "intends", "estimates", or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Any forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this release. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. The Company cannot assure you that the projected results or events will be achieved.Investor Contact:RedChip Companies Inc.Dave Gentry1-800-RED-CHIP (733-2447)or 1-407-644-4256 dave@ redchip.com SOURCE: Continental Lithium Limited
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 18:01:28

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ELMSFORD, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / DLC, one of the nation's largest private owners and operators of open-air shopping centers, and Meadow Partners, an institutional middle-market real estate investor, have acquired Penn Mar Shopping Center, a prominent 378,205 square foot grocery-anchored shopping center located inside the Capital Beltway within Prince George's County in Forestville, Maryland, less than 10 miles from downtown Washington, D.C.Penn Mar Shopping Center DLC AND MEADOW PARTNERS ACQUIRE PENN MAR SHOPPING CENTER FOR $68.5 MILLIONThis strategic off-market acquisition was completed for $68.5 million and financed by Apollo and Athene.Penn Mar highlightsAnchored by the highest-trafficked Shoppers Food Warehouse, which recently completed a 10-year renewal and a full store renovation.Diverse mix of national anchor tenants that serve the community's needs including Burlington, Ross Dress for Less, Dollar Tree, Petco, and Foot Locker.Eight single-tenant pad sites are home to popular brands, including Starbucks, Trust Bank, Taco Bell, Raising Cane's, IHOP, Wendy's, and Long John Silver's.The center is 91.5% leased, includes 1,757 parking spaces, and is the dominant asset in a high-demand trade area with both immediate and long-term upside potential.DLC has been an owner/operator in Prince George's County for over 20 years. The acquisition of Penn Mar complements an existing portfolio of three grocery-anchored and value-oriented retail assets within an 8-mile radius, totaling over 658,000 square feet, cementing DLC's dominant position as a buyer/owner/operator/value creator in Prince George's County. Penn Mar has an average household income of $95,430 and a population of over 95,000 within a 3-mile radius, highlighting the submarket's density from a residential and consumer perspective. DLC now owns over $250 million of open-air retail in the southern portion of Prince George's County.This acquisition underscores DLC's commitment to investing in top-tier retail properties within major metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) across the country."The acquisition of Penn Mar is consistent with DLC's overall strategy," said Adam Ifshin, DLC CEO and Founder. "We are leaning into the best buying opportunities even as many are sitting on the sidelines and this off-market transaction is DLC's 14th acquisition since 2022, totaling over $600 Million. As a best-in-class operator, we are attracting capital that wants to be in our space with an aligned GP. DLC has capital for immediate deployment for over $1,500,000,000 of open-air retail assets." Jeffrey Kaplan, Founder and Managing Partner of Meadow Partners, added, "The acquisition of Penn Mar is consistent with Meadow's high conviction theme of acquiring long-dated credit income which is trading at historically wide yields. This investment represents Meadow's focus on acquiring necessity-oriented, high-yielding, cash-flowing properties with longer-leased tenants and opportunities for enhanced operating performance. Penn Mar is an attractive grocery-anchored center that benefits from strong local consumer demand for brick-and-mortar based on resident demographics and customer shopping habits. We are excited to partner with DLC, a proven owner and operator of retail assets with significant experience unlocking retail value, and we look forward to growing our retail portfolio with them as we continue to identify attractive opportunities to deploy Fund VI that can generate opportunistic returns on behalf of our global investor base." DLC is funded by a growth capital commitment from Temerity Strategic Partners (TSP). This acquisition marks DLC's sixth with TSP. In December 2023, TSP and DLC launched a venture to support DLC with growth capital enabling DLC to double the size of its portfolio by 2025.About DLCDLC is one of the nation's preeminent private retail real estate companies, with expertise in acquisitions, development, architecture, leasing and management. Headquartered in Metro New York, DLC has regional operations in Atlanta, Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, DC. For additional information about DLC and its portfolio, please visit www.dlcmgmt.com About Meadow Partners Based in New York and London, Meadow Partners is a $6.2 billion vertically integrated real estate investment manager specializing in global middle-market transactions. Since inception in 2009, Meadow has leveraged its unique platform to execute on investment opportunities across multifamily, office, industrial and retail investment on behalf of institutional investors globally. Meadow currently manages a series of commingled opportunistic funds, a perpetual life vehicle, and two core/core-plus separately managed accounts. For more information, please visit www.meadowpartners.com About Temerity Strategic PartnersTemerity Strategic Partners is a Chicago-based private equity firm with a focused strategy of providing growth capital to real estate operating, development, and asset management companies on behalf of its principals and a distinguished group of private and institutional investors. TSP provides growth capital, strategic resources and access to its extensive relationships to support rapidly growing, market-leading real estate owners and operators executing development, value-add and core-plus strategies throughout the United States. Founded by industry veterans Bruce Cohen and Jeff Citrin, TSP leverages its experience in building, capitalizing and investing in preeminent real estate operating platforms to support the pursuit of their long-term objectives.Contact InformationMichael St. JohnSenior Vice President, Marketing, DLCmstjohn@ dlcmgmt.com 914.406.7622Mark Semermeadow-partners@ gashalter.com 212-2574170SOURCE: DLCView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 19:25:12

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Toronto Community Unites for Free First Aid and CPR Workshop this AugustTORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics, an esteemed partner of the Canadian Red Cross, unveiled "Train The Next Hero" in 2018, a revolutionary initiative designed to boost community safety and preparedness. This complimentary first-aid & CPR workshop event, backed by local sponsors and stakeholders, will be held in the bustling heart of North York, Toronto. Train The Next Hero represents a unique opportunity for residents to come together and acquire vital life-saving skills in a supportive and accessible environment.Emergencies and accidents can occur at any moment, whether it's a sudden cardiac arrest, choking incident, or a severe injury; having the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively can make all the difference. Unfortunately, many individuals lack basic first-aid training, leaving them ill-equipped to handle such critical situations.Company co-director Aryan Sekhavati shared, "It'll be our fourth year organizing this event. We have grown a lot and expect to teach 500+ Toronto residents CPR skills at Train the Next Hero this summer." The idea that triggered the Train the Next Hero event was the deadly van attack in 2018 that killed ten people and left 16 others seriously injured. Ashkon Pour-heidary, the other co-director of Coast2Coast First Aid and Aquatics, shared that "when an emergency happens, people don't know who is going to take the first action and this so-called "bystander effect" will lead to decreased chances of individuals performing these life-saving skills. With our workshops, we aim to increase the readiness and enhance the skills of Torontonians, so If something happens, we can come together to save each other's lives." What to Expect at Train The Next Hero 2024Train The Next Hero event aims to bridge that gap by offering comprehensive first-aid and CPR workshop sessions, CPR demonstrations, and informative workshops led by certified instructors. Participants will learn essential techniques for assessing and responding to various medical emergencies, including administering CPR, managing choking emergencies, heart attacks, strokes, opioid overdoses and more.Empowering the Community for a Safer TomorrowThis free event is about more than just acquiring skills-it's about empowering the community to take proactive steps toward safety and preparedness. Equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge to respond effectively in emergencies enhances public safety, fostering a culture of compassion and support within neighbourhoods.Whether you're a parent, caregiver, student, or concerned citizen, join this free event to learn, connect, and positively impact the community's health and well-being.A Milestone for Coast2Coast First Aid & AquaticsCompanies are also welcome to attend the event. Coast2Coast was recently awarded the Canadian Red Cross's "Top National Training Provider Award 2023." It has trained over 1,500 companies through private/group training sessions and 40,000+ students across our 24 locations in Canada.Event DetailsDate: August 11, 2024Time: 1 PM - 7 PMLocation: Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge St, North York, TorontoAttendees can expect an engaging and interactive event designed to impart life-saving skills in a supportive and educational environment.Check out last year's event . Throughout the day, certified instructors will lead hands-on training sessions covering essential first aid techniques, including CPR, wound care, heart attacks, strokes, opioid overdoses, and other emergency response protocols. In addition to the training sessions, participants will be able to observe CPR demonstrations, participate in interactive workshops, and engage with community resources focused on health and safety.The event is almost sold out, so don't miss this invaluable opportunity to equip yourself with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively in emergencies.How to Register?Registration for the Train The Next Hero event is free and easy. Visit our website at https://www.c2cfirstaidaquatics.com/train-the-next-hero-free-first-aid-cpr-workshop/to secure your spot today. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.For questions and assistance with registration, please email the customer service team atcontact@ c2cfirstaidaquatics.comor call 1-866-291-9121, our toll-free number.About Coast2Coast First Aid & AquaticsCoast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics is a Top National Training Provider by the Canadian Red Cross. The WSIB Ontario and OHS Alberta approve our teaching guidelines. With over ten years in the industry, Coast2Coast is dedicated to empowering the community with life-saving skills to keep their loved ones safe and promote a safer city.Press ContactsCoast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics1-866-291-9121contact@ c2cfirstaidaquatics.comwww.c2cfirstaidaquatics.com SOURCE: Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 02:30:50

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DENTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Big D Print & Logistics LLC, a family-owned business in Denton, Texas, is excited to announce the opening of a new UPS Store. The store is expected to open its doors at the end of September 2024, offering a range of essential shipping, printing, and logistics services to the local community.A Family VentureThis new UPS Store is a new venture for Big D Print & Logistics LLC, a business owned by the DeGenova family. Joe DeGenova, the acting General Manager, oversees the business, supported by his parents, the company's principal owners. With his strong technical background and extensive experience in sales and management, Joe DeGenova is well-equipped to drive this new initiative to success.Core Services and Community ImpactThe new UPS Store will provide various services designed to meet the needs of local businesses and residents. These services include packing and shipping solutions for domestic and international needs, high-quality printing and document services, secure and convenient mailbox rentals, and comprehensive freight services for larger items. Joe DeGenova commented on the upcoming opening, stating, "We are thrilled to bring a UPS Store to Denton. We aim to offer a convenient, one-stop shop for all logistics and printing needs, helping local businesses and residents save time and effort. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Denton community." Permitting and Grand Opening PlansThe permitting process for the new store has begun, and the DeGenova family is working diligently to ensure everything is in place for the anticipated opening at the end of September. A grand opening event is being planned, with an official date to be announced within the next 6-8 weeks. The event will feature special promotions and activities, welcoming the community to experience the new UPS Store's offerings firsthand.Community Engagement and Future PlansThe DeGenova family is passionate about giving back to the community. The new UPS Store will provide essential services, create job opportunities, and support local initiatives. The family is excited to engage with the community and contribute to its growth and development. Joe DeGenova added, "Our family has always believed in the importance of community. We are committed to providing excellent service and creating a positive impact in Denton. The new UPS Store is just beginning our efforts to support and grow with this wonderful community." About Big D Print & Logistics LLCBig D Print & Logistics LLC is newly formed in the Denton community and looks forward to showcasing its dedication to quality and customer service. The company's formation and new UPS Store is a testament to its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers. Joe DeGenova, with his background in managing complex relationships and driving significant revenue growth, is confident in the success of this new venture. His strategic planning and problem-solving skills, honed through years of experience in technical sales and management, will be instrumental in establishing the UPS Store as a trusted local resource.CONTACT:Joe DeGenova http://bigdprintandlogistics.com Email: joedegenova@ bigdprintandlogistics.com SOURCE: Big D Print & Logistics
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 23:28:24

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 /Grande Portage Resources Ltd. (TSXV:GPG)(OTCQB:GPTRF)(FRA:GPB) ("Grande Portage" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its non-brokered private placement of up to 5,555,555 Units announced on July 30, 2024, has been over-subscribed and will now consist of 5,836,221 Units at a price of $0.18 for gross proceeds of $1,050,520 subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange.As previously announced, each Unit in this offering consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (each a "Common Share") and one share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each warrant entitles the Unit holder to purchase one (1) additional GPG common share at a price of $0.25 per share at any time within 24 months of the closing.The Company will pay an aggregate of $22,858 in cash and issue 119,210 Finders Warrants in connection with this offering. Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at $0.25 per share for 24 months from the date of closing. The Finder's Warrants are issued on the same terms and conditions as the private placement Warrants. All finder's fees are subject to compliance with applicable securities legislation and TSX Venture Exchange policies.All securities issued will be subject to a four-month hold period which will expire on the date that is four months and one day from the date of issue.About Grande Portage:Grande Portage Resources Ltd. is a publicly traded mineral exploration company focused on the Herbert Gold discovery situated approximately 25 km north of Juneau, Alaska. The Company holds a 100% interest in the Herbert property. The Herbert Gold property system is open to length and depth and is host to at least six main composite vein-fault structures that contain ribbon structure quartz-sulfide veins. The project lies prominently within the 160km long Juneau Gold Belt, which has produced over seven million ounces of gold.The Company's updated NI#43-101 Mineral Resource estimate reported at a base case mineral resources cut-off grade of 2.5 grams per tonne gold (g/t Au) and consists of: an Indicated Resource of 1,438,500 ounces of gold at an average grade of 9.47 g/t Au (4,726,000 tonnes); and an Inferred Resource of 515,700 ounces of gold at an average grade of 8.85 g/t Au (1,813,000 tonnes), as well as an Indicated Resource of 891,600 ounces of silver at an average grade of 5.86 g/t Ag (4,726,000 tonnes); and an Inferred Resource of 390,600 ounces of silver at an average grade of 7.33 g/t silver (1,813,000 tonnes).ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD"Ian Klassen"Ian M. KlassenPresident & Chief Executive OfficerTel: (604) 290-5762Email:Ian@ grandeportage.com Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", or "plan". Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties as described in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICE PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED UNDER THE POLICIES OF THE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASESOURCE: Grande Portage Resources Limited
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 16:04:12

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MIRAME Fine Art is thrilled to announce its representation of renowned Costa Rican artist Guillermo Tovar Carazo. Known for his unparalleled blend of contemporary realism and esoteric enchantment, Tovar Carazo's work conjures fantastical worlds where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs.SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 /MIRAME Fine Art, the premier online Costa Rican art gallery dedicated to promoting the nation's finest artists, proudly represents Guillermo Tovar Carazo. Promoting the nation's rich cultural heritage, MIRAME Fine Art connects artists with art lovers worldwide.Guillermo Tovar Carazo, Acrylic on Canvas Daydreaming Goblin with Stolen Doll Dress A Journey Through Fantastical RealmsBorn in Costa Rica in 1977, Guillermo Tovar Carazo lives and works in Escazu, creating art that transcends the mundane and explores the supernatural. His Costa Rican surreal paintings draw inspiration from the natural beauty of Costa Rica's landscapes. From lush forests and serene rivers to colorful flowers, Tovar Carazo's paintings infuse these elements with an enigmatic and otherworldly quality.Cinematic Influences and Supernatural ElementsTovar Carazo's work is inspired by his childhood fascination with 1980s fantasy movies such as "Gremlins" and " Ghostbusters." These cinematic influences are evident in his paintings, where dragons, crystals, and unnerving new creatures come to life.His works introduce a sinister edge into otherwise colorful and cheerful worlds, creating a fascinating juxtaposition. Each painting serves as a visual journey full of concealed details, inviting viewers to explore the fine line between daydreams, nightmares, and make-believe.Costa Rica's Coastal ScenesIn his most recent collection, Tovar Carazo employs his distinctive playful style to portray Costa Rica's coastal scenes. Through his enchanting Costa Rican art, he injects personality into boats bobbing in the water and trees lining the oceanfront.His compositions hint at human presence, uniquely showcasing the beauty of Costa Rica's shores while creating evocative narratives that resonate on a deeper level.An Internationally Acclaimed ArtistTovar Carazo's work has been exhibited internationally, including at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in France, the Seoul Museum of Contemporary Art in South Korea, and La Casa Encendida in Madrid. He has also shown extensively across Costa Rica, most recently at Matices Gallery in San Jose. His contributions to the art world have solidified his reputation as a leading Costa Rican artist and a prominent figure in Latin American art."I'm always searching for ways to surprise myself through my images. If I am going to surprise people, I must surprise myself first," says Tovar Carazo. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of his own creativity is always evident.Supporting the Unique and the EnchantingMIRAME Fine Art is proud to support Guillermo Tovar Carazo, whose work is powerfully imaginative. Visit MIRAME Fine Art to explore and buy Costa Rican art that blends contemporary realism with supernatural elements from the extraordinary mind of Tovar Carazo.For more information, please visit MIRAME Fine Art's website or contact Belinda Seppings:belinda@ miramefineart.com Contact InformationBelinda SeppingsCo-Founderbelinda@ miramefineart.com +447821591397SOURCE: MIRAME Fine ArtView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 17:00:47

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Metis is thrilled to announce that Hashkey Cloud, with the robust support of the Metis community, has successfully passed the Critical Evaluation Group (CEG) review at the end of July. Hashkey Cloud is now in the process of onboarding onto the Decentralized Sequencers network and will soon be our first external decentralized sequencer client to go live.This significant milestone brings Metis closer to its vision of creating a Layer 2 solution with true decentralization, empowering contributors through network ownership, impactful governance roles, and reinforced economic security via revenue sharing.Key Highlights:CEG Approval: Hashkey Cloud has achieved a successful CEG review, underscoring their commitment to high standards and rigorous evaluation.Onboarding Process: Currently in the final stages of onboarding, Hashkey Cloud is set to go live on the Decentralized Sequencers network soon.Vision for Decentralization: As Metis' first external decentralized sequencer client, Hashkey Cloud plays a pivotal role in our mission to achieve true decentralization.Empowerment and Security: The Metis network model focuses on empowering contributors through ownership, governance roles, and economic security through revenue sharing mechanisms.Leo Li, CEO of Hashkey Cloud, expressed his enthusiasm: "We are incredibly proud to have passed the CEG review and to be on the verge of going live as the first external decentralized sequencer client for Metis. This milestone is a testament to our shared vision for true decentralization and the unwavering support of the Metis community." Tom Ngo, Executive Lead of Metis L2, added: "This is a momentous occasion for Metis and the broader decentralized ecosystem. Hashkey Cloud's integration as our first external decentralized sequencer client exemplifies our commitment to building a resilient and inclusive network. We are committed in leading this industry forward with this exemplary partnership." Hashkey Cloud's upcoming integration into the Decentralized Sequencers network represents a major step forward in Metis' efforts to build a truly decentralized Layer 2 solution. We extend our gratitude to the Metis community for their continued support and dedication in reaching this milestone.As we prepare for Hashkey Cloud to go live, Metis remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, security, and community empowerment. Together, we are driving the future of decentralized networks.About Metis:Metis is an Ethereum Layer 2 solution that prioritizes decentralization, community governance, and shared network ownership for its Decentralized Sequencer node operators. By implementing a revenue-sharing model, Metis aligns the interests of sequencer node operators with the network's growth, while incentivizing developers and users to build and interact with protocols in a reliable, secure environment.About Hashkey Cloud:Hashkey Cloud is a leading global Web3 infrastructure service provider, offering clients professional, stable, secure, and compliant services worldwide.Press Contact:Colin Landers colin@ energentmedia.net SOURCE: Metis
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 16:02:41

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BIRMINGHAM, AL / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery, a distinguished member of Ascend Aesthetic Partners, announces the appointment of Dr. Beau Vandiver as its newest facial plastic surgeon, effective July 31, 2024. Dr. Vandiver joins the esteemed practice, bringing a wealth of expertise and a dedication to advancing patient care in the Birmingham, Alabama area.Dr. Vandiver obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch, where he graduated summa cum laude. He completed his fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery in Birmingham. Dr. Vandiver has distinguished himself with a commitment to excellence and collaboration, embodying the values upheld by Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery and Ascend Aesthetic Partners."We are pleased to welcome Dr. Vandiver to our team," said Dr. William Hedden, Chief Surgeon and co-founder of Hedden & Gunn. "His exceptional training and compassion make him a perfect fit for our practice. As part of the Ascend network, we are committed to enhancing our capabilities and providing our patients the highest standard of care." Dr. Vandiver's arrival expands Hedden & Gunn's capabilities, particularly in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He joins Dr. Joshua Halka, a member of Hedden & Gunn's surgical team since 2023, renowned for his expertise in surgical and non-surgical procedures including breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, facelift, eyelid surgery, Botox and dermal filler treatments.A board-eligible plastic surgeon, Dr. Halka completed his medical education in Michigan at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit and his residency program at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine in Royal Oak. His dedication to achieving natural-looking results has earned him recognition throughout the Birmingham community."Dr. Vandiver's addition strengthens our commitment to providing Birmingham with the highest standard of facial plastic surgery," said Stephen Gunn, M.D., Chief Surgeon and co-founder of Hedden & Gunn. "We are also proud of Dr. Halka's contributions to our practice and the exceptional team we are building as the leading aesthetics center in the region." Both Dr. Vandiver and Dr. Halka will collaborate within Hedden & Gunn's state-of-the-art facilities, offering a comprehensive range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures under the guidance and support of Ascend Aesthetic Partners."Expanding our team with skilled surgeons like Dr. Beau Vandiver and Dr. Joshua Halka ensures that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our patients with excellence and compassion," said Dr. Gunn. "Their expertise in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, coupled with their dedication to our Birmingham community, aligns perfectly with our commitment to advancing aesthetic medicine and delivering outstanding results." For more information about Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Halka or Dr. Vandiver, please contact their Birmingham, Alabama practice at (205) 980-1744.About Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery: Hedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery, a member of the Ascend Aesthetic Partners network, is dedicated to delivering exceptional plastic surgery and aesthetic services. Led by Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons Dr. William Hedden and Dr. Stephen Gunn, the practice is committed to achieving natural-looking results with a focus on patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction.Ascend Aesthetic Partners unites top plastic surgeons dedicated to advancing aesthetic medicine and empowering patients to become their best selves. Board certified plastic surgeons interested in learning more about the Ascend network can visit ascendaestheticpartners.com Contact InformationLori MoonenMarketing Agencylori@ creativesparkjax.com 9042287318Related ImagesHedden & Gunn Plastic Surgery Logo SOURCE: Ascend Aesthetic PartnersView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 18:02:08

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Pavement improvements to begin in Lake County, IN.ELKHART, IN / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / ITR Concession Co. LLC (ITRCC), the concessionaire and operator of the Indiana Toll Road, is announcing that construction work from mile marker 10 (Exit 10 Gary/Chicago International Airport) to mile marker 20 (just west of the Indiana Toll Road Lake Station Exit 21 Toll Plaza) will commence September 9, 2024, weather permitting.The work will consist of eastbound (EB) and westbound (WB) mainline milling and paving operations, which will include intermittent and short-term lane and shoulder closures. This comprehensive project will also include the resurfacing of the Gary West Exit 14A interchange, which will necessitate its temporary closure. ITRCC will also take the opportunity to resurface ramps during the INDOT Broadway 14B closure. To expedite the overall project schedule, the majority of the construction will occur Monday through Saturday during daytime operations.Additionally, nighttime work will take place at the Gary East Exit 17 and Lake Station Exit 21 toll plazas anticipated to begin in August requiring intermittent toll lane closures; the plazas will remain operational during this time. In observance of the Labor Day holiday, all construction activities will be temporarily halted.Anticipated Project Timeframe September - November PhasingThere will be one travel lane of traffic during each respective phase:WB MM 10-15.6 (9/9/24 - 10/1/24)EB MM 10-15.6 (9/26/24 - 10/23/24)EB/WB MM 16.5-20 (10/18/24 - 11/21/24)Gary West Exit 14A closureWB week of 9/21EB week of 10/15*Dates subject to change due to materials, equipment, or weather delays.For more information on traffic impacts and project updates, please visit IndianaTollRoad.org About the Indiana Toll RoadEstablished in 2006, the ITR Concession Company LLC (ITRCC) responsibilities are detailed in the Concession and Lease Agreement with the Indiana Finance Authority, such as the construction, maintenance, repair, and operation of the 157-mile Indiana Toll Road. Headquartered in Elkhart, the Toll Road spans northern Indiana, linking Chicago with the Eastern Seaboard. Designated as part of Interstate 80/90, the Toll Road serves as a vital transportation link in the Midwest.Contact InformationYvette LeyvaCommunications Specialistyleyva@ indianatollroad.org 5742614028SOURCE: ITR Concession Company LLCView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 03:35:33

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Tunkillia Scoping Study Outlines Competitive Large-Scale Gold OperationHIGHLIGHTSLive webinar with Q&A hosted by Sharewise on Monday, 12 August 2024Starts at 07:30 London / 08:30 Zurich / 14:30 Perth / 16:00 Adelaide / 16:30 SydneyADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Barton Gold Holdings Limited (ASX:BGD)(FRA:BGD3)(OTCQB:BGDFF) (Barton or Company) is pleased to announce a live webinar hosted by Sharewise. Barton MD Alex Scanlon will discuss the results of a preliminary Scoping Study at the Tunkillia Gold Project (Tunkillia) and other ongoing corporate activities.This study has outlined a prospective 5Mtpa bulk open pit mining and processing project, with:1aveg annual production of ~130koz Au at a competitive A$1,917 / oz All-in Sustaining Cost (AISC);a higher-grade Starter' pit producing ~181,000 oz payable gold and 420,000 oz payable silver during the first 18 months of mining, with average operating cashflow of ~A$2,265 / oz gold; andan NPV7.5% of ~A$512m, a 40% IRR and a 1.9 year payback period (all unlevered, and pre-tax).Webinar detailsThe webinar will be hosted bySharewisewith live Q&A following a presentation, starting at 16.30 Sydney on 12 August 2024 (07:30 London, 08:30 Zurich, 14:30 Perth, and 16:00 Adelaide). Register freehere .Commenting on the Tunkillia Project, Barton MD Alexander Scanlon said:"We are excited to outline a project that, were it in operation today, would rank favourably by AISC among Australian gold producers. We plan to continue systematically building up Tunkillia's potential over the next 12 months, targeting an optimised Scoping Study, while pursuing other higher-grade mineralisation in the neighbouring Tarcoola Goldfield."With over A$10m cash we are very well positioned to continue advancing our strategy and we look forward to discussing next steps with investors next week." Authorised by the Managing Director of Barton Gold Holdings Limited.For further information, please contact:Alexander ScanlonManaging Director a.scanlon@ bartongold.com.au +61 425 226 649Shannon CoatesCompany Secretary cosec@ bartongold.com.au +61 8 9322 1587About Barton GoldBarton Gold is an ASX, OTCQB and Frankfurt Stock Exchange listed Australian gold developer targeting future gold production of 150,000oz annually, with ~1.6Moz Au JORC Mineral Resources (52.3Mt @ 0.94 g/t Au), multiple advanced exploration projects and brownfield mines, and 100% ownership of the only regional gold mill in the renowned central Gawler Craton of South Australia.*Tarcoola Gold ProjectExisting brownfield open pit mine within trucking distance of Barton's processing plantUnder-explored asset with untapped scale potentialTunkillia Gold Project1.5Moz Au Mineral Resources (51.3Mt @ 0.91 g/t Au)*Scoping Study for initial 6 year, ~130kozpa Au mineInfrastructure650ktpa CIP process plant, mine village, and airstripTarcoola ~40 person lodging to support mine operationsTunkillia camp to support dedicated project teamCompetent Persons Statement & Previously Reported InformationThe information in this announcement that relates to the historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources as listed in the table below is based on, and fairly represents, information and supporting documentation prepared by the Competent Person whose name appears in the same row, who is an employee of or independent consultant to the Company and is a Member or Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) or a Recognised Professional Organisation (RPO). Each person named in the table below has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and types of deposits under consideration and to the activity which he has undertaken to quality as a Competent Person as defined in the JORC Code 2012 (JORC).ActivityCompetent PersonMembershipStatusTarcoola Mineral Resource (Stockpiles)Dr Andrew Fowler (Consultant)AusIMMMemberTarcoola Mineral Resource (Perseverance Mine)Mr Ian Taylor (Consultant)AusIMMFellowTarcoola Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021)Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant)AIGMemberTarcoola Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021)Mr Marc Twining (Employee)AusIMMMemberTunkillia Exploration Results (until 15 Nov 2021)Mr Colin Skidmore (Consultant)AIGMemberTunkillia Exploration Results (after 15 Nov 2021)Mr Marc Twining (Employee)AusIMMMemberTunkillia Mineral ResourceMr Ian Taylor (Consultant)AusIMMFellowChallenger Mineral ResourceMr Dale Sims (Consultant)AusIMM / AIGFellow / MemberThe information relating to historic Exploration Results and Mineral Resources in this announcement is extracted from the Company's Prospectus dated 14 May 2021 or as otherwise noted in this announcement, available from the Company's website at www.bartongold.com.au or on the ASX website www.asx.com.au . The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the Exploration Results and Mineral Resource information included in previous announcements and, in the case of estimates of Mineral Resources, that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates, and any production targets and forecast financial information derived from the production targets continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the applicable Competent Persons' findings are presented have not been materially modified from the previous announcements.Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis document may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "expect", "target" and "intend" and statements than an event or result "may", "will", "should", "would", "could", or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information is subject to business, legal and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among other things, risks relating to property interests, the global economic climate, commodity prices, sovereign and legal risks, and environmental risks. Forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and opinions at the date the statements are made. Barton undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements for events or
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 21:45:15

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BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / MassRobotics, the world's largest independent robotics hub, announces that itsresident startupshave raised more than $1 billion in venture funding since opening its doors in 2017. This remarkable achievement underscores the vital role MassRobotics plays in accelerating robotics innovation, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies.The Catalyst of Success: The MassRobotics Mission and Support EcosystemAt the heart of MassRobotics's success is its unwavering commitment to creating and scaling the next generation of robotics and AI technology companies. MassRobotics currently hosts more than 85 robotics startups as residents from around the world. It provides entrepreneurs and startups the resources and support to develop, prototype, test and commercialize their technologies through offering essential workspace, programming and connections."The mission of MassRobotics has always been about supporting our resident startups with the resources they need to grow and to work with academia and industry partners to provide deep, relevant industry insights that help new startups with their product focus. This formula leads to successful outcomes, and this funding milestone is another proof point of this," said Tom Ryden, Executive Director of MassRobotics.Robotics Startups Attracting VCsThere is a shift happening in the venture capital community and VCs are realizing and acting on the fact that the robotics industry is one to pay attention to. The one billion dollar total represents funding from nearly 300 institutional investors."MassRobotics has been a huge support for ORI along every step of our journey. Our need for prototyping space, office space and a flexible term lease at competitive rates steered us toward MassRobotics in the first place, but they have been so much more than a good landlord. The sense of community, the anticipation of our needs, particularly during the pandemic, and the ability to accommodate ORI's growth over the years all demonstrate the commitment of the MassRobotics team to do everything possible to help ORI be successful. MassRobotics is a true asset to the Boston startup community," said Ivan Casadevante Etxezarreta, Co-Founder and VP of Product atORI , which raised their Series B from Alphabet, Battery Ventures and Khosla Ventures.Top Notable Industries Leading InvestmentInvesting in robotics companies is a smart move for venture capitalists because the industry is poised for exponential growth, driven by advancements in AI and automation across various industries. Additionally, robotics technology addresses critical labor shortages and operational efficiencies, offering high potential returns.Robotics is an enabling technology that can impact almost any industry. The MassRobotics resident startups reflect a broad array of industries. The largest concentration of investment dollars has been in the areas of Manufacturing, Defense and Logistics.A Custom-Built Space for Innovation and Flexible Growth OpportunitiesMassRobotics offers a unique, custom-built physical space in Boston, providing access to critical resources such as robotic platforms, sensors, components, prototyping equipment, and testing facilities. These physical assets are complemented by a wealth of domain experts across all aspects of robotics and IoT systems. Residents also benefit from vetted experts who mentor in navigating legal and business challenges.One of MassRobotics' unique advantages is its flexible monthly agreements. Startups can grow without the burden of long-term contracts, beginning with an open seat in the shared space and expanding to dedicated lab benches or private offices as they scale. This adaptability ensures that startups can manage their growth efficiently and sustainably. Often, MassRobotics residents remain connected to the organization and its resources even after "graduating" from the MassRobotics workspace."Choosing to set up at MassRobotics may be the best decision of our seven-year life. Its open resources allowed our $50k initial funding to take us to seed stage and is where we connected with early customers, investors, and partners, includingMitsubishi Electric , which just led our Series B," said Peter Howard, President, CEO and Co-Founder atRealtime Robotics .Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Robotics InnovationMassRobotics continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of robotics, fostering an environment where startups can thrive and achieve remarkable milestones. The $1 billion in funding will lead to amazing new products that will positively impact our daily lives in many ways.Join the Robotics HubStartups canapplyto join MassRobotics' growing roster of successful companies in the robotics hub. For more information about MassRobotics and its mission to drive robotics innovation, visitwww.massrobotics.org Media Contact:Sayo TirrellMarketing Manager, MassRobotics info@ massrobotics.org About MassRoboticsMassRobotics is the largest independent robotics hub dedicated to accelerating robotics innovation, commercialization, and adoption. Our mission is to help create and scale the next generation of successful robotics and AI technology companies by providing entrepreneurs and startups with the workspace, resources, programming, and connections they need to develop, prototype, test, and commercialize their products and solutions. While MassRobotics originated and is headquartered in Boston, we reach and support robotics acceleration and adoption globally. We work with startups, academia, industry, and governments both domestically and internationally.SOURCE: MassRobotics
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 15:00:51

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MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / PQ.Hosting , a leading provider of web hosting solutions, today announced its commitment to providing businesses and individuals with high-performance, secure, and scalable hosting solutions. Founded in 2019, PQ.Hosting has rapidly grown into a global hosting powerhouse, with servers strategically located in 40 countries around the world. This extensive reach ensures that customers can choose the ideal hosting environment for their unique needs, whether it's optimal performance, specific data privacy regulations, or proximity to target audiences. With a comprehensive range of services, exceptional customer support, and a focus on innovation, PQ.Hosting empowers customers to establish and grow their online presence with confidence."At PQ.Hosting , we understand that your website is your digital storefront," says Ivan Neculiti, PQ.Hosting CEO. "That's why we go above and beyond to deliver reliable and secure hosting solutions that exceed expectations. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized support and guidance to ensure our customers achieve their online goals." To demonstrate our confidence in our services, we are currently running a special promotion. For a limited time, you can migrate your existing projects to PQ.Hosting completely free of charge. Experience the PQ.Hosting difference and enjoy the benefits of our robust infrastructure and top-tier support, with access to plans up to our powerful Palladium package. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your online presence!What sets PQ.Hosting apart:High Reliability and Uptime Guarantee: PQ.Hosting guarantees a 99.99% uptime, ensuring your website is always accessible to visitors.24/7 Customer Support: A dedicated team of experts is available round-the-clock to assist with any technical issues or inquiries.Advanced Security Features: PQ.Hosting employs robust security measures, including firewalls, malware scanning, and DDoS protection, to safeguard your website and data.Scalability for Future Growth: As your business expands, PQ.Hosting makes it easy to upgrade your hosting plan to accommodate increased traffic and resource requirements.User-Friendly Management Tools: Manage your hosting account, domains, and other services effortlessly with PQ.Hosting's intuitive control panel.Wide Geography: Data centres in 40 countries which means that every client will find the best server for his or her business.About PQ.Hosting PQ.Hosting is a leading provider of web hosting solutions, dedicated to empowering businesses and individuals to succeed online. With a focus on reliability, security, and exceptional customer support, PQ.Hosting offers a comprehensive suite of hosting services designed to meet the diverse needs of its clients.Media Contact InformationStella PQ.HostingPublic relations specialists tel:+19295666760 socials@ pq.hostingpq.hosting SOURCE: PQ.Hosting
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 03:25:57

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DURHAM, NC / ACCESSWIRE / August 6, 2024 / Scorpius Holdings, Inc. (NYSE American:SCPX), ("Scorpius", or the "Company"), an integrated contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), today announced the pricing of an underwritten public offering of 12,500,000 shares of common stock (or pre-funded warrants ("Pre-Funded Warrants") in lieu thereof). Each share of common stock (or Pre-Funded Warrant) is being offered at a public offering price of $1.00 per share (inclusive of the Pre-Funded Warrant exercise price). The gross proceeds to the Company from the offering are expected to be approximately $12,500,000, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses. In addition, the Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 1,875,000 shares of common stock and/or Pre-Funded Warrants solely to cover over-allotments, if any. The offering is expected to close on August 8, 2024, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions.The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the offering to fund working capital and for general corporate purposes.ThinkEquity is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.A registration statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-280887), as amended, including a preliminary prospectus, relating to the securities being offered was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and became effective on August 6, 2024. This offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. Copies of the final prospectus, when available, may be obtained from ThinkEquity, 17 State Street, 41st Floor, New York, New York 10004. The final prospectus will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC's website located at http://www.sec.gov This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.About Scorpius Holdings, Inc.Scorpius Holdings Inc. is an integrated large molecule contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) focused on rapidly advancing biologic and cell therapy programs to the clinic and beyond. Scorpius offers a broad array of analytical testing, process development, and manufacturing services to pharmaceutical and biotech companies at its state-of-the-art facilities in San Antonio, TX. With an experienced team and new, purpose-built U.S. facilities, Scorpius is dedicated to transparent collaboration and flexible, high-quality biologics biomanufacturing. For more information, please visit www.scorpiusbiologics.com Forward-Looking StatementsThis release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "may," "should," "potential," "continue," "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," and similar expressions and include statements regarding the timing and completion of the proposed offering and the intended use of proceeds. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, among others, the ability to complete the proposed offering, and other factors described in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, subsequent quarterly report on Form 10-Q and any other filings the Company makes with the SEC. The information in this presentation is provided only as of the date presented, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release on account of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.For Investor Relations Inquiries: David Waldman+1 (919)-289-4017 investorrelations@ nighthawkbio.com SOURCE: Scorpius BioManufacturing
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 17:51:28

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. ("Arbor" or the "Company") (NYSE:ABR). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether Arbor and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until September 30, 2024, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired Arbor securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On March 14, 2023, NINGI Research ("NINGI") published a report on Arbor, alleging, among other things, that Arbor "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." Following publication of the NINGI report, Arbor's stock price fell $1.46 per share, or 11.24%, over the following two trading sessions, to close at $11.53 per share on March 15, 2023.Then, on December 5, 2023, Viceroy published an in-depth study of Arbor's properties in Jacksonville, Florida. Citing their findings, Viceroy concluded that in an "industry plagued with delusion and bad decisions, [Arbor] stands out as the worst of the worst. Viceroy's dive into [Arbor's] CLOs suggest its entire loan book is distressed and underlying collateral is vastly overstated." Following publication of the Viceroy report, Arbor's stock price fell $0.71 per share, or 5.12%, over the following two trading sessions, to close at $13.15 per share on December 6, 2023.Finally, on July 12, 2024, Bloomberg reported that Arbor was "being probed by federal prosecutors and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in New York." According to Bloomberg, "[t]he investigators are inquiring about lending practices and the company's claims about the performance of their loan book." On this news, Arbor's stock price fell $2.64 per share, or 17%, to close at $12.89 per share on July 12, 2024.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 18:17:22

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / 2024 (ACCESSWIRE) Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of The Chemours Company ("Chemours" or the "Company") (NYSE:CC). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.The investigation concerns whether Chemours and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.[Click here for information about joining the class action]On August 1, 2024, Chemours issued a press release reporting its financial results for the second quarter of 2024. Among other items, Chemours reported non-GAAP earnings per share of $0.38, missing consensus estimates by $0.20. The Company advised that it "anticipates a low to mid-single digit sequential decline in Net Sales for the third quarter," citing "[r]esidual impacts from Q2 unplanned downtime at our Altamira, Mexico manufacturing site" in its Titanium Technologies segment; "[r]efrigerant seasonality paired with weaker Freon Refrigerants pricing in its Thermal & Specialized Solutions segment; and "[a] continued modest recovery in" its Advanced Performance Materials segment.On this news, Chemours's stock price fell $2.77 per share, or 11.88%, to close at $20.54 per share on August 2, 2024.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2024-08-07 15:30:29

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 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 15:15:35

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TUCSON, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Titan NRG, Inc. ("Titan NRG") (OTC PINK:TTNN), a leader in downstream energy and transportation through its wholly owned subsidiaries, announces the award of a 150,000-gallon contract.Alex R. Majalca Jr., president and CEO of Titan NRG, Inc., proudly announces a new milestone for the company - a substantial contract for the sale of 150,000 gallons of propane over the next year to a southern Arizona reservation. This contract has been awarded to a subsidiary of Titan NRG, Inc., symbolizing a significant leap forward in its business ventures.This agreement not only marks an impressive stride for the company, but it also serves as a testament to the trust and reliability associated with the Titan NRG, Inc. name. The new contract leverages the impeccable reputation of the brand, known for its provision of top-tier energy solutions.The delivery of 150,000 gallons of propane throughout the year presents a new task for the company but, under the leadership of Alex R. Majalca Jr., the Titan NRG, Inc. team is more than prepared to rise to the challenge. The team's commitment to excellence in service delivery and customer satisfaction has enabled the company to stand head and shoulders above in the industry.This propane supply contract signifies a major step forward in Titan NRG, Inc.'s growth strategy, promising more opportunities down the line. Alex R. Majalca Jr. acknowledges the importance of this milestone, stating, "We are excited about this opportunity and are ready to surpass expectations." Looking forward, this pivotal deal showcases Titan NRG, Inc.'s ability to carry out substantial contracts and maintain excellent relations with its partners. The southern Arizona reservation deal serves as a testament to both the company's reliability and capacity for bigger, more substantial projects in the future.About Titan NRG Inc.:Titan NRG is a holding company that operates as a downstream energy and transportation company through its wholly owned subsidiaries. NRG Dynamics currently has 25+ transports operating in eight states. APE Fuels offers retail and commercial propane, serving southern Arizona with 1,500+ leased tanks and 2,500+ customers. Vespene handles wholesale purchasing and sales of LPG products. NRG Rail has a long-term lease on a new 18-car rail facility in Tucson with approved 1.2mm gallons of propane/butane storage. Titan NRG focuses on vertical integration while expanding operations to cover product transfer and sales from the refinery to retail. This business model is a win for the company, customers, and shareholders. Additionally, this model can be replicated in other regions.NOTES ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTSSafe Harbor Statement This press release contains 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. These forward-looking statements are based on the current plans and expectations of management and are subject to a number of uncertainties and risks that could significantly affect the company's current plans and expectations, as well as future results of operations and financial condition. A more extensive listing of risks and factors that may affect the company's business prospects and cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the reports and other documents filed by the company with OTC Markets. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.Contact InformationInvestor RelationsInvestor Relationsir@ titannrg.com 520-743-3000SOURCE: Titan NRG, Inc.View the original press release on newswire.com
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HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / TransPower, one of the world's leading electronic manufacturers, is expanding its manufacturing capabilities to meet the growing demand within the electronics industry. With locations in Hong Kong, the USA, China, and Vietnam, TransPower's strategic growth reflects its commitment to meeting the ever-increasing need for high-quality electronic manufacturing services across the globe.TransPower TransPower Corporation Ltd TransPower offers a comprehensive range of services, including OEM and ODM electronic manufacturing and design services. These services range from the subassembly level to complete turnkey solutions, helping to support ambitious electronic product development from concept to execution. The company's skilled engineers excel in electronic product development, design, and prototyping, and they offer vertical integration with in-house capabilities such as plastic injection, mold fabrication, SMT, through-hole PCB assembly, burn-in/reliability testing, and shipment-ready packaging.The talented engineering team at TransPower is made up of experts in product development, electronic circuitry design, industrial design, and packaging. They offer custom circuit board creation and optimization through professional circuit design services, employing industry-leading tools like Siemens PADS PCB Design software. TransPower's industrial design services provide data-backed solutions from research to renderings, supporting clients in developing innovative products that meet and exceed industry expectations.Additionally, their production capabilities are backed by state-of-the-art machines and technologies. The optical projection machine, with an optical resolution ratio of 0.001mm, ensures precision in meeting complex design parameters. The company also utilizes advanced electronic prototype manufacturing and 3D printing methods, including rapid prototyping with a 3D machine capable of printing a variety of materials at speeds of 30-150mm/s. Their radio frequency product design and testing uses RF meters to guarantee the successful development of high-frequency systems for diverse applications.With their expanded manufacturing capabilities, TransPower is now able to design and manufacture a wide array of products, including chargers, medical applications, infant products, purification systems, pet and agriculture applications, aqua products, and so much more. Interested readers can visit transpower-corp.com to learn more.About TransPowerFounded in 2000 in Hong Kong, TransPower has evolved from a modest startup to one of the world's more prominent electronics manufacturing companies. Since achieving ISO9001 certification in 2003, TransPower has maintained a steadfast commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company prides itself on its positive attitude, collaborative teamwork, and dedication to lowering costs while improving quality throughout each process. TransPower's ultimate goal is customer satisfaction, which they achieve by maintaining complete control over the entire electronics manufacturing process from concept to shipment.Contact InformationTransPower Corporation LtdOwnerinquiry@ transpowerc.com 407-468-2884SOURCE: TransPower Corporation LtdView the original press release on newswire.com
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WASHINGTON, D.C. / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Today at the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) summer meeting, the Menhaden Management Board heard a presentation on osprey populations from U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists; considered but did not agree to a motion to start an addendum on additional commercial menhaden fishing restrictions in the Chesapeake Bay; and ultimately agreed, as a compromise, to create a working group to "consider and evaluate options for further precautionary management of Chesapeake Bay menhaden fisheries." The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) has issueda stunningly deceptive press release , mischaracterizing the tone of today's ASMFC meeting and the action taken there. The CBF release suggests that the material presented by USGS overwhelmingly indicated a problem with osprey in the Chesapeake Bay, and that there was overwhelming support by ASMFC commissioners for additional regulation of menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay. Neither is true. The Menhaden Fisheries Coalition is issuing this release, together with the full audio of the meeting, to clarify the record. The full audiois available here .Dr. Barnett Rattner and David Ziolkowski of the U.S. Geological Survey gave a presentation on the health of osprey populations from coast to coast. Mr. Ziolkowski noted that "in North America in the 1950s and 60s, osprey population started declining rapidly due to the effects of volcanic chlorine, pesticides like DDT, and it's estimated that the Chesapeake Bay probably lost about half or more of its population." However, Mr. Ziolkowski explained that after measures were taken, including banning DDT, between 1966 and 2022, the eastern population of osprey increased by about 300%, and the Atlantic Coast population increased by about 587%. In the Chesapeake Bay it's increased by about 1800% since 1960. He continued, "what these numbers bear out is that osprey have made an astounding recovery by all accounts. The numbers are now in excess of historical numbers and in part that's because they've returned to a world that's very different than the world was before they started declining. There's more suitable nesting structures. Water may be cleaner, et cetera." Mr. Ziolkowski did note that during the period from 2012 to 2022, "something's going on," as there has been a leveling off in the growth of the osprey populations in the mid-Atlantic. But he explained, "Care must be used when you're interpreting these kinds of results and to understand what I mean, it's helpful to look at osprey trends across the country. So here I'll point out three things that I hope you take notice of in these graphs. On the left-hand side here, for example, California and Washington, opposite coast, you can see that there's something going on in the same time period as there is here in Maryland, Virginia." During the Q&A following the presentation, Commissioner Patrick Geer of Virginia, Chief of Fisheries Management at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, noted that "Dr. [Bryan] Watts has done a survey in Virginia, for a number of years, going back to I believe 1993, which has shown the double crested cormorant population has increased 1416% in 25 years and brown pelicans have been about 882%. Now those species that are primarily piscivoresthey're competing for the same food sourceMaybe the [osprey] nests aren't surviving, maybe they're moving out and these two species are moving in? Is that possible?" To which Dr. Rattner replied "Yes, it's possible, certainly." Dr. Barnett Rattner and David Ziolkowski of the U.S. Geological Survey present a slide to the Menhaden Management Board showing that the recent leveling-off in Maryland and Virginia osprey populations, after years of explosive growth, is a phenomenon also being seen in states across the nation, on both the East and West Coast.After the presentation by the USGS scientists, Commissioner Lynn Waller Fegley of Maryland, Director of Fishing and Boating Services at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, made a motion to initiate an addendum to the Atlantic Menhaden Interstate Fishery Management Plan to consider Chesapeake Bay-specific management options for menhaden purse seine vessels larger than 300 gross tons in order to support the need of piscivorous birds and fish during critical points of their life cycle, and include options for seasonal closures of Chesapeake Bay waters, but not consider changes to the current Bay cap of 51,000 metric tons.It became immediately apparent that the board was divided on this proposal.The provision targeting purse seine vessels over 300 tons was obviously included to target the commercial menhaden reduction fishery, which in Virginia is operated by Ocean Harvesters and supplies menhaden to Reedville-based processer Omega Protein. This was questioned by Commissioner Proxy Eric Reid of Rhode Island, who asked if the motion wasn't inherently flawed, since although there are carrier vessels over 300 tons, those vessels get their fish from pairs of small purse seine boats, meaning that the motion accomplished nothing. Mr. Reid's conjecture was confirmed by a member of the delegation from Virginia.Commissioner Proxy Nichola Meserve of Massachusetts, Fishery Policy Analyst at the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, raised concerns about "diving immediately into an addendum process," noting that other addenda in the past began "with a work group, a board work group that discussed the issues and the concerns that developed potential strategies.After much procedural wrangling, there were two votes to postpone action on the motion, one until the October meeting and another indefinitely. Both of those votes tied 9-9. When it became apparent that the motion to initiate an addendum had reached a stalemate, Commissioner Proxy Dr. Allison Colden, Chesapeake Bay Foundation Maryland Executive Director, offered a substitute motion "to establish a board work group to consider and evaluate options for further precautionary management of Chesapeake Bay menhaden fisheries, including time and area closures, to be protective of piscivorous birds and fish during critical points of their life cycle.The board members accepted this compromise unanimously by acclamation, without a roll call, and the working group is expected to report the results of their discussion to the Menhaden Management Board at its October 2024 meeting."Those attending the ASMFC's Menhaden Management Board meeting in person or listening online could only come away with one clear message from the respected researchers at USGS, and that is the osprey's numbers have dramatically increased and any challenges t
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NAPLES, FL / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2024 / Canada has a unique mortgage market that requires holders to refinance after every five years. If you're an investor looking to capitalize on this opportunity, one little-known company offers the perfect way to do so.Pineapple Financial Inc. (NYSE American:PAPL) is a digital mortgage company focused on providing Canadian mortgage brokers with the systems, tools, and technologies they need to provide home buyers and mortgage seekers with a more digital customer experience.The company was established about 8 years ago after realizing that the real opportunity was in digitizing the old and archaic mortgage origination industry, which was very manual and paper-heavy.The solution was to build a full end-to-end cloud enterprise management platform for everything from lead inception to customer marketing automation, profile building, segmentation, data collection, document collection, SWOT analysis, compliance, payroll, and retention, all within a single ecosystem and environment.Pineapple is also the first Canadian company to integrate artificial intelligence and data analytics into the mortgage origination process, making it well positioned to capitalize on the refinancing cycle.That is because the company's technology is designed and geared towards Canadian mortgage brokers, which is a very fast-growing channel of origination. A quick look at half of all mortgages that Canadians originate reveals that over 75% are first-time home buyers, and over 70% of buyers under the age of 45 prefer to utilize a mortgage broker.The company expects that these growing demographics will prefer using digital channels such as Pineapple's platform, which is reaffirmed when we look at other areas of the world. For instance, in Australia, Europe, and the US, over 80% of mortgage originations are done through the mortgage broker channel. This means that Pineapple has plenty of room to grow as the market organically grows in Canada.To put the opportunity in context, consider this: There is about $2.2 trillion of outstanding mortgage debt in Canada.What makes the Canadian mortgage market unique compared to other markets is the fact that it doesn't offer long-term mortgages. Instead, it has 1-5-year terms, after which the mortgage will come up for maturity or renewal.This is where Pineapple comes in, as it will have the opportunity to reservice that customer, and these continually servicing opportunities with each cycle provide the company with tremendous potential to continue growing revenue and the business.The exciting thing is that 73% of all current Canadian mortgages will be coming up for maturity within the next 3 years or by the end of 2027, which translates to about $1.6 trillion of potential originations.In addition to that, Canada has the fastest-growing population in the world.The country grew its population by 3.7% in the last year and will be welcoming 1.2 million immigrants in the next 12 months. Statistically, 80% of new immigrants in Canada will purchase a home within 3 years of arriving. Now couple that with about 4 million Canadians who are entering the home buying stage of their lives, and it's clear to see that Pineapple Financial Inc. (NYSE American:PAPL) has a tremendous growth opportunity.Right now, Pineapple is funding about $2.5 billion per year in mortgage originations out of a potential $700-$800 billion per year of originations, which further reaffirms just how significant the company's potential for growth and scaling is.Pineapple's unique business model gives it a number of competitive advantages over existing mortgage broker products. First, it has chosen to digitally and technologically enable a pre-existing distribution channel like mortgage brokers that already have embedded relationships within various communities across the country. This drastically cuts down on acquisition costs and further reduces the time needed to build volumes.Additionally, Pineapple has built a fully integrated system, whereas a lot of solutions on the market are focused on building solutions to one piece of the mortgage processing lifecycle. Pineapple end-to-end solution means that all areas of the mortgage origination processing life cycle are housed within one ecosystem, so the data entry, data integrity, and efficiency of the information are much more accurate, concise, and usable.This business model has been validated by the market, as illustrated by the fact that it became profitable within the first four years of its operations.Investors went on to reaffirm their confidence in the company after Pineapple closed its first financing in April 2021. At that time, the company had about 100 brokers on its platform, funded just under $1 billion per year, and was only operational in Ontario. The company had tremendous buy-in from the industry and successfully raised $9.3 million to begin scaling the business.Since then, the company has expanded to every province across Canada, is fully coast-to-coast, has over 700 brokers on the platform, and is funding over $2.5 billion in mortgages.In November last year, Pineapple Financial Inc. (NYSE American:PAPL) IPO'd, raising $3.5 million and listing on the NYSE. At the same time, the company brought in a strategic long-term capital partner who would be focused on ensuring that the company is capitalized both in the short term and in the long term by being an anchor institutional investor.Pineapple has a market capitalization of about $7.2 million, which appears to be undervalued by the market considering the revenue and efficiency of the business. We believe that the company has significant upside potential once more investors recognize the multiple tailwinds driving growth.Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects,
Pastor Jerry Ezes YouTube channel, Pastor Jerry Eze, has earned him the enviable title of Nigerias highest-earning YouTuber.

Mr Eze is the founder of Streams of Joy International, a church with over 16 branches across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Canada and the United States.

This is according to a recent report by Playboard, a data curation platform that provides rankings for YouTube channels globally.

The report states that Mr Eze, the convener of the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations (NSPPD), a popular online prayer meeting platform with over 2.12 million subscribers and over one million views daily, earns more than N7 million daily.

Mr Eze, a former Communications Specialist with The World Bank, emerged as Nigerias highest-earning YouTuber because he is the most Super Chatted content creator on YouTube in Nigeria.

Super Chat, introduced in January 2020, is a paid feature on YouTube that highlights a viewers message at the top of a chat for a specified duration.

The longer the message (Super Chat) is pinned, the higher the cost and earnings for the YouTuber, in this case, Mr Eze. YouTubers get 70 per cent of the money earned and paid from Super Chats.

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Super Chat is a significant revenue-spinner for Pastor Eze because his viewers purchase them (Super Chat) to highlight their prayer requests and testimonies during his live streams.

Playboard data showed that the Abia-borns total revenue from his content, primarily live-streamed on his YouTube page (Pastor Jerry Eze), amounts to N7.81 billion (money made during a specific period.)

YouTube earnings

On its website, Playboard said it uses a sophisticated methodology to arrive at these figures by analysing millions of data points daily. This platform, which provides data on YouTube channels worldwide, includes monitoring subscriber changes, varying the frequency of view and like checks based on the age of videos, and conducting daily checks for new content and videos with over 5,000 views.

YouTubers earn through various means, including ad revenue, sponsorships, brand deals, merchandise sales, channel memberships, Super Chats, Super Stickers, YouTube Premium revenue, affiliate marketing, and crowdfunding or donations.

During a live stream, Playboard data revealed that the History and International Relations graduate of the Abia State University (ABSU) channel had 185 512 viewers and an average viewership of 87,356 when it went live.

Pastor Jerry Eze

Mr Ezes YouTube channel, launched on 21 November 2019, has become a digital sanctuary for individuals seeking prayer in Nigeria and worldwide. Since its inception, it has accumulated 418.28 million lifetime views.

According to the 41-year-old pastor, NSPPD celebrates miraculous testimonies daily, including reports of terminal illnesses like cancer being reversed, changes in genotypes, blind eyes and deaf ears being restored, the lame walking, and even the dead being brought back to life.

As of press time, the Playboard indicated that the channel had not earned any amount on Wednesday but earned N7.64 million on Tuesday.

Jerry Eze

Mr Eze, known for the tagline, What God Cannot do, does not exist, began his ministry in 2009 pastoring at All Saints Chapel in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States.

As the lead pastor, he founded Streams of Joy International Church in Abia State in 2013. His ministry emphasises revival and healing, and he is widely recognised for the slogan, What God Cannot Do, Does Not Exist.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Eze launched the digital series The New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations (NSPPD), hosted on YouTube and social media platforms.

The top five earners

PREMIUM TIMES checks showed that the top five highest-earning YouTube channels, according to Playboard, are faith-based.

They are Dunamis TV of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, a Pentecostal Christian Church founded by Pastor Paul Enenche; Celebration TV of Omega Fire Ministries, the media branch of Apostle Johnson Sulemans ministry; Rev. Sam Oye, a channel owned by Reverend Sam Oye, Founder and lead Pastor of The Transforming Church; and Paul S. Joshuas Channel, founded by Paul S. Joshua, Senior Pastor of The Refiners House Ministries.

Dunamis TV, with 643,000 subscribers and 116.48 million views, reported a total revenue of N190.82 million and daily earnings of N1.66 million.

Celebration TV, boasting 1.05 million subscribers and 173.33 million views, achieved total revenue of N415.53 million and daily earnings of N531,522.

Rev. Sam Oyes channel has 200,000 subscribers and 30.18 million views, generating total revenue of N223.46 million and daily earnings of N333,651.

Paul S. Joshuas channel features 29,200 subscribers and 6.55 million views, with a total revenue of N255.82 million and daily earnings of N175,548.

Other top-earning channels

Other top-earning channels include ACNN TV, Berekete Family, Reubby TV Official, Catholic Reflection Family, Apostle Orokpo Michael, Apostle Edu Udechukwu, Gboah TV, Harvesters TV, and Fada Ebube Muonso.

ACNN TV, the Advent Cable Network Nigeria, is the televangelism arm of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). It has 30,800 subscribers and a total viewership of N5.38 million, generating daily earnings of N106,922 and a total revenue of N107,319.

Berekete Family, an Abuja-based non-profit reality radio and television program focused on human rights, boasts 471,000 subscribers and 69.95 million views, daily earnings of N37,636, and total revenue of N8.04 million.

Reubby TV Official, a YouTube channel dedicated to exposing false teachings and upholding the foundations of the Christian faith, has 13,899 subscribers and 1.6 million views. The channel earns N29,727 daily.

Catholic Reflection Family, run by Chiamaka Amanda Okoli, a staunch Catholic, has 517,000 subscribers and 31.64 million viewers. The channel earns N11,835 daily and has accumulated a total revenue of N65.11 million.

Apostle Orokpo Michael, a kingdom-oriented channel sharing the life of Christ through inspired messages, has 353,000 subscribers and 36.3 million views. Its daily earnings are N7,814, and its total revenue is N5.12 million.

Apostle Edu Udechukwu, the channel of the President and Founder of Revivalhub Ministries International, has 100,000 subscribers and 6.66 million views. The channel earns N6,233 daily and has a total revenue of N175,324.

Harvesters TV, a channel that belongs to the Harvesters International Christian Centre under the leadership of Pastor Bolaji Idowu, has 333,000 subscribers and 33.99 million views. The channel earns N1,931 daily and has a total revenue of N8.29 million (money made during a specific period).

Playboard provides real-time updates on its earnings, and the total and daily earnings reported reflect the status when this newspaper conducted its check; these figures may have fluctuated since then.

If this calculation is accurate, it indicates that some channels above earned one million per hour while others earned less.

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The South African Government has launched a probe into the citizenship status and eligibility of Chidinma Adetshina, a finalist in the 2024 Miss South Africa pageant scheduled for Saturday at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria.

South Africas Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, disclosed this in a statement shared on his X page Tuesday.

Ms Adetshina was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambique mother, who is now a naturalised South African.

According to the South African Citizenship Act, an individual automatically qualifies for citizenship if they are born in South Africa, if at least one of their parents is a South African citizen, or if a South African permanent residency permit holder or a South African citizen adopts them.

This Act provides the legal basis for Ms Adetshinas South African citizenship as she is a dual citizen of South Africa and Nigeria.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that the controversy surrounding Ms Adetshinas eligibility to contest for Miss South Africa began shortly after she entered the beauty pageant.

The 23-year-old emerged as a central figure in the countrys xenophobia debate and discussions on national identity after advancing to the Top 30 and becoming a finalist in the Miss SA competition.

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However, the criticisms intensified on Monday when South Africans unearthed her marriage video, which South Africans deemed violated the competitions guidelines.

The criticism of the wedding video was that a married, divorced woman or a nursing mother is not eligible to contest for Miss South Africa. However, guidelines provided by the Miss South Africa organisation website revealed that being married, divorced, or a mother does not disqualify contestants from entering the Miss South Africa pageant.

U-Turn

Despite several criticisms and calls for her disqualification, the Miss South Africa organisations website maintains stringent citizenship and ethical conduct criteria. Surprisingly, the body initially supported the model.

In a statement to The South African newspapers, the organisation confirmed that Ms Adetshina met all the requirements to participate in the pageant.

They noted that citizenship, irrespective of origin, is the primary requirement, aligning with the revised South African Citizenship Act, which recognises birth, descent, and naturalisation as valid pathways to citizenship.

However, Mr Schreibers statement proves otherwise after all.

His statement partly read: The Department of Home Affairs yesterday received an official request from the organisers of Miss SA to enquire into the citizenship of a contestant in an upcoming event. The request included consent from the affected individuals.

On the basis of this voluntary request and the required consent, we are working to verify and compile the required information. Before this request, the Department had not received any complaint about the matter.

Additionally, the minister stated that the ministry is committed to the Rule of Law and is currently investigating the matter.

He emphasised that any violations discovered during the investigation would be addressed strictly according to legal guidelines.

If not, we will inform the requesters accordingly and keep the public informed on the assessments outcome. Cleaning up Home Affairs to enable it to play its rightful role in national security and economic growth is an enormous task requiring collaboration with the public.

I urge anyone with evidence of malfeasance to contact our dedicated Counter-Corruption Unit. Evidence-based decisions, anchored in the rule of law, is how we defeat corruption and rebuild South Africa, said the minister.

South Africas Arts and Culture Minister too

Similarly, in an interview with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), South Africas Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie, Mr McKenzie requested that Ms Adetshina provide documentation to confirm her South African citizenship.

Mr McKenzie, the President of South Africas anti-immigrant political party, Patriotic Alliance, who led a crusade against illegal foreigners in the country, including Nigerians, in January 2022, said, Why cant she just produce (documents) and say shes South African? Beautiful South African young ladies might be robbed of this opportunity.

The Miss South Africa 2024 competition winner will succeed Natasha Joubert of Gauteng, the 2023 titleholder, and represent South Africa at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico.

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Yesterday, Bloomberg Philanthropies announced a transformative $600 million gift to four historically Black universities: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science, Howard University College of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, and Morehouse School of Medicine. Additionally, a $5 million seed fund has been provided to support the creation of the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, a new medical school in New Orleans founded by the Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically Black university.

Bloomberg Philanthropies Greenwood Initiative is a bold effort to accelerate wealth accumulation for Black individuals and families while addressing systemic underinvestment in Black communities. For generations, systemic racism has prevented Black people in America from exercising their full economic power. The lasting effects of this pervasive racism are profound; today, the typical Black family has one-eighth of the wealth of the typical White family. Without bold intervention and a complete reimagination of Black wealth accumulation, this unacceptable status quo will continue to persist, states the initiative.

Michael Bloombergs philanthropy is a testament to his profound humanism and commitment to reversing systemic racism and empowering the Black community. His actions demonstrate a deep belief in our common humanity and the urgent need for equity while promoting equality. His vision for a more just society is a stirring example of how transformative change can be achieved through empathy and bold action.

This extraordinary $600 million gift builds upon the Greenwood Initiatives 2020 contribution of $100 million, which relieved nearly 1,000 future Black doctors of burdensome debt. In May 2021, Bloomberg Philanthropies and Johns Hopkins University announced the Vivien Thomas Scholars (Named after Vivien Thomas, a renowned Black scientist) Initiative, a $150 million investment to address historical underrepresentation in STEM fields and to prepare a more diverse generation of researchers and scholars. The initiative aims to create additional pathways for students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) to pursue and receive PhDs in STEM fields.

Michael Bloombergs philanthropy sets a shining example for some Nigerian billionaires, who have all too often chosen the path of conspicuous consumption over impactful giving. It is disheartening to witness their obsession with flaunting wealth on social media while ignoring the rising inequality in access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities in our nation.

The efforts of some Nigerian Billionaires like AbdulSamad Rabiu, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Sir Emeka Offor, Prince Arthur Eze, Mike Adenuga and others in their philanthropy are widely acknowledged. However, there is need for a data-driven and systemic issues-resolving approach to philanthropy like Bloombergs effort to reverse historic and systemic racism.

The time is now for some of Nigerias wealthy elite to rise above self-indulgence and embrace a higher purpose. They should combine their luxurious lifestyles with a commitment to dismantling the chains of poverty and providing opportunities for those at the bottom of the pyramid.

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Another important lesson is the urgent need to stop the proliferation of poorly resourced new universities as monuments to personal egos and instead support existing institutions with endowments that can create lasting change.

For example, A two billion Naira endowment in a faculty of an existing university will leave a lasting impact on research, instruction, staff remuneration and affordability for students. Public universities should offer opportunities to rename faculties after their funders to incentivise those who aspire for immortality.

As a people, we must learn from the positive examples set by others, rejecting the allure of superficial displays of wealth and embracing the power of impactful philanthropy. To transform our society, we must transform our sense of intentional giving to solve societys challenges.

The Bloomberg example should motivate a mindset shift to contribute to a better Nigeria  where no man is oppressed.

Osita Chidoka, a former minister of aviation, is chancellor of the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership

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A hotel in Germanys Kroev town partially collapsed near the banks of a river, killing one person and trapping eight others.

Firefighters and paramedics were on the scene to search for and rescue the survivors in the Moselle town of Krov, about 100km west of Frankfurt.

Several people were able to leave the building on their own and are being looked after by emergency services and counsellors, police said.

Pictures from the scene showed parts of the multi-story building had collapsed, with concrete debris on the ground.

Public broadcaster SWR reported the fire brigade was initially unable to enter the building due to the risk of collapse.

Neighbouring buildings have been evacuated due to fears the building could further collapse.

It was initially unclear what caused the accident on Tuesday night.

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(dpa/NAN)

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The federal government has asked the countrys diplomatic community to refrain from interfering in the ongoing nationwide protests.

It also called for collaborative support from the community in tackling economic challenges and ensuring a better life for Nigerians at home and abroad.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja at a briefing of Members of the Diplomatic Corps on the governments programme and policies.

Mr Tuggar, who spoke about the protests, said Nigeria is a country under the rule of law and assured that the government would do all it can to protect its citizenry.

According to him, no one can tolerate the thuggish behaviour of fringe elements and those who stand behind them, restating that the government will not tolerate foreign interference in the protests.

While government continues to work hard through various reforms to address challenges facing Nigeria and Nigerians, it is pertinent that no nation tolerates foreign interference in its domestic affairs and its citizens.

Government will take appropriate action against any foreign entity residing in Nigeria found to have directly or indirectly supported protesters by whatever means or seeks to interfere in the internal affairs.

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Nigeria cherishes and will continue to value the cordial relationships that happily subsist between her, your countries and organisations and will not do anything to undermine or take for granted such relationships.

Indeed, more than any time before now, we solicit your understanding and collaboration in the ongoing efforts of the government in addressing the economic challenges confronting the country.

To achieve a better life for every Nigerian at home and abroad, Mr Tuggar said.

He reassured the diplomats that President Bola Tinubu understood the pains and frustrations driving the protests, had commiserated with the families, and relations of those who died and promised to address the concerns of Nigerians.

The minister restated Mr Tinubus appeal particularly to youths, advising them not to let violence and destruction tear the country apart as willingness to proffer solutions to issues that surround the protests.

He recounted that Mr Tinubu had led a campaign against military dictatorship in Nigeria in the 1990s and believes in Nigerias democracy and that freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and the right to dissent are fundamental.

Mr Tuggar said, While admitting there have been many dashed hopes in the past, Tinubu affirmed Nigeria is in a new era of Renewed Hope as the government is working hard.

The results will soon be visible and concrete for everyone to see, feel, and enjoy. Consequently, the President has directed that the security operatives continue to maintain peace, law, and order in the country as the safety and security of all Nigerians is paramount.

In his remarks, Mohammed Idris, the minister of Information and National Orientation, said the government recognises and upholds the democratic rights of Nigerians to freely express their grievances, and demand accountability from their governments.

According to him, since the advent of this administration, the government has maintained an open-door policy where citizens are regularly briefed on the policy direction of the government.

Mr Idris said, President Tinubu did not come to office to cause hardship or make life difficult for Nigerians.

He has come to office with bold solutions to historical problems with determination to correct many poor policies and dysfunctional choices that have held us back as a nation for decades.

When the first notices emerged that a nationwide protest was scheduled for August against the high cost of living, we saw it as an opportunity to engage with the Nigerian people, to listen and enlighten.

These engagements predated the announcement of the protests. Since the administration came to office we initiated and sustained dialogue with Nigerians on different platforms.

Such as the regular Ministerial Briefing Sessions, town hall meetings, social media engagements, media appearance and press releases among others.

He restated that now is not the time for protests, advising that focus should be on allowing the governments various initiatives and interventions to manifest fully, saying genuine reforms take some time.

Mr Idris identified the suspension of import duties and taxes on essential food items, the new National Minimum Wage of N70,000, Local Government autonomy and youth-focused intervention programmes to be among the initiatives of the government.

(NAN)

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The Kaduna State Security Council has not reviewed the 24-hour curfew imposed on Kaduna and Zaria towns and their environs.

The Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, stated in a statement issued on Wednesday in Kaduna.

Mr Aruwan said, The 24-hour curfew is still in place, and being actively enforced by the security agencies, contrary to insinuations that it has been reviewed.

The citizens are enjoined to observe the curfew strictly and shun rumours or unverified reports.

Reliable and accurate updates will be duly communicated to the public through official channels, Mr Aruwan said.

Police detain notorious kidnapper, recover firearms

Also, the police in Kaduna say they have detained a notorious kidnapper and recovered firearms and 27 live ammunition.

Police spokesperson Mansir Hassan said in a statement that The Anti-kidnapping Unit of the command has successfully apprehended a notorious kidnapper.

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The suspect, identified as Abdulrahman of Karshi, Abuja, was arrested in possession of an AK-47 rifle along with twenty-seven (27) rounds of live ammunition in Karshi.

Upon interrogation, Abdulrahman confessed to being involved in several kidnappings in Ikara Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.

Mr Hassan further said that the suspect would be prosecuted upon the completion of preliminary investigations.

He said that the Commissioner of Police, Audu Dabigi, has commended the officers involved for their exemplary work.

He reassured the public of the commands unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property throughout the state.

(NAN)

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The Senate has raised concerns over the $1.5 billion approved in 2021 for the turn-around maintenance of the Port Harcourt Refinery with little or no result.

Opeyemi Bamidele, chairperson, Senate Ad Hoc Committee to Investigate the Alleged Economic Sabotage in the Nigerian Petroleum Industry, raised the concern during an interactive session with stakeholders on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mr Bamidele, who is also the Senate leader, said it was unfair and wrong to treat public companies shabbily while private businesses were flourishing and thriving.

He recalled that the Federal Executive Council had approved the plan by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to rehabilitate and turn around the Port Harcourt Refinery with $1.5 billion.

Mr Bamidele expressed concerns about the dysfunctional state of government-owned refineries despite billions of dollars spent on turn-around maintenance.

The federation is undergoing a truly challenging period. The distribution and supply of refined petroleum products have been irregular and problematic in the recent history of our fatherland.

The long queues at filling stations are a testament to this challenge.

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A situation whereby we now depend almost entirely on the importation of these products even when we daily supply the global oil market about two per cent of its crude oil requirements is worrisome, he said.

He said also of serious concern was the importation of hazardous petroleum products and dumping of substandard diesel into the country.

Mr Bamidele observed that the federal government, under different administrations since 1999, has invested billions of dollars to maintain and turn around the state-owned refineries in Kaduna, Port Harcourt and Warri. But the refineries are not functioning.

In 2021, specifically, the Federal Executive Council approved $1.5 billion for the turn-around maintenance of the Port Harcourt Refinery. Yet, this investment has not yielded significant returns.

For us in the Senate, we believe it is unfair and unpatriotic to treat government or public corporations as an orphan while private businesses flourish and thrive.

He said the National Assembly was ready to carry out the investigative hearing with all sense of honour and responsibility.

Kyari speaks on allegation of sabotaging domestic refinery

Mele Kyari, the group chief executive officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, refuted claims of sabotaging the domestic refinery.

All of us here see what is happening in the media. Targeted personal attack on my person, on the institution. And we all know how this works.

They are deliberate, they are calculated. So, that creates the impression that NNPCL and our leadership are doing anything to create economic sabotage in our country.

It is far from it. This company has grown. We are proud to say this. From a lost company for 43 years to a profit-making company today, said Mr Kyari.

Also, Heineken Lokpobiri, minister of state for Petroleum Resources, said that the oil sector was bedevilled by misinformation.

This Senate should do Nigerians a favour by televising the proceedings of this committee live.

This will do a whole lot of justice not only to the Senate but us in the executive and key leaders in the sector.

Because of the fundamental nature of this investigation that has to do with alleged economic sabotage with the importation of substandard products into the country, we urge the Senate to ensure we do a live broadcast, he said.

He said the government was committed to ensuring that local industries and all stakeholders in the oil sector were protected.

We are committed to supporting Dangote Refinery; we are also supporting modular refineries and we have been resolving whatever issues they had brought to our attention, the minister said.

Also speaking at the investigative hearing, Aliyu Suleiman, chief strategy officer, Dangote Industry Ltd., said the refinery started full production in March.

Since then, we have processed about 50 million barrels of crude. We have produced about five million tons of petroleum products, and these petroleum products have been sold in various parts of the country, he said.

Wale Edun, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, in his remarks, said the increase in crude oil production would stabilise the countrys foreign exchange market.

(NAN)

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The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has declared its Akwa Ibom State coordinator, Okun Christopher, and his driver, Daniel Asibong, missing.

The duo went missing while travelling for an official assignment between Delta and Akwa Ibom States on 29 July, Punch newspaper reported.

The NYSC spokesperson, Eddy Megwa, told reporters in Abuja on Wednesday that Mr Christopher and his driver were abducted during the journey.

Mr Megwa expressed concern that despite their efforts, they have not been able to locate the whereabouts of the missing staff members.

Anyone with information regarding their whereabouts should contact any of the 37 NYSC state secretariats, area offices, the National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja, or the nearest police station or security agency for prompt action, Mr Megwa said.

When contacted, the police spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, Timfon John, told PREMIUM TIMES that the police in the state had not received any report that the NYSC coordinator and his driver were missing.

Her counterpart in Delta State, Bright Edafe, said no such incident has been recorded in Delta.

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If he was travelling from Akwa Ibom to Delta State, and perhaps he was kidnapped in Akwa Ibom or Imo how is that my business in Delta?

Weve not recorded such kidnapping in Delta, Mr Edafe, a superintendent of police, told PREMIUM TIMES Wednesday night.

READ ALSO: NYSC gives HND graduates new condition for mobilisation

It is not clear in which state the NYSC staff members were abducted.

The incident occurred about a year after gunmen abducted eight NYSC corps members along a highway in Zamfara State while travelling from Akwa Ibom to take part in the orientation camp in Sokoto State, north-west Nigeria.

Two of the corps members are still in captivity a year after they were abducted.

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The Oyo State Government has released the results of the computer-based tests for recruitment of prospective teachers into its Post Primary Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM).

According to the Commission, about 9,000 candidates who sat for the tests scored above the 50 per cent cut-off mark and are eligible for a screening interview on 14 August.

This was contained in a statement by the chairperson of the Commission, Akinade Alamu.

Mr Alamu said the successful candidates will be interviewed within one week, beginning from 14 August to 22 August.

He disclosed that the interview panels, which will be led by both serving and retired Permanent Secretaries, will be divided into 10 groups of five members each.

He encouraged all candidates to log into their portal , as the results have been uploaded there.

Mr Alamu reiterated the Commissions commitment to improving educational services in the state, stating that the interview for candidates in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Geography will take place on 14 August.

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He listed other schedules to include: 15 August 2024  English, Physics, Health Education, Technical Drawing, Music and French.

On 16 August, Basic Science, Home Economics, Computer Science; and on 19 August  Commerce, Christian Religious Studies, Islamic Religious Studies, Literature in English and Guidance and Counselling.

READ ALSO: Oyo govt amends recruitment test dates as protest looms

On 20 August  Social Studies, Business Studies, and Food and Nutrition; 21 August  Economics, Government, Finance and Account, Fine Arts, and History; and 22 August  Agricultural Science, Yoruba and Arabic.

Mr Alamu urged all candidates to bring their credentials, local government of origin certificate, date of birth certificate, and other necessary documents for the interview.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the Oyo State Government planned to offer employment to 10,500 teaching and non-teaching staff in primary and secondary schools within the state.

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Borno South senator, Ali Ndume, has apologised to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for criticising the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Ndume, a member of the APC, apologised during a meeting with members of the partys National Working Committee (NWC) at its secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday.

The senator recently said President Tinubu had been caged at the Presidential Villa and that some forces are preventing well-meaning people from physically discussing the truth with the president.

He also granted an interview to Arise News TV where he criticised the policies of the president.

Amidst the criticisms, the National Chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje and Basiru Ajibola, the partys secretary wrote a letter to the Senate demanding that Mr Ndume be removed as the chief whip of the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

The party also directed that he should be replaced with Tahir Monguno, the senator for Borno North Senatorial District.

When the letter was read on the floor of the Senate, majority of the senators supported it through voice votes and Mr Ndume was subsequently removed.

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I shouldve sought permission

After todays meeting with the party leaders, Mr Ndume told journalists that he initially ought to have sought permission from the APC leaders before criticising the president publicly.

He noted that all the criticisms were done because of his patriotism for the country and assured that he would ensure he gets clearance from the party leaders in subsequent times before commenting on issues.

Yesterday, I was invited by the party and here I am to discuss family matters. Actually, the national chairman is not just a chairman to me but also a father. With what has happened, it is not surprising that I was invited to hear my side and we had a family discussion.

I accepted the mistake of not talking to the party as a last point and I told the party that all my observations as a senior member of the family should have terminated or ended with the party. That is something that will be corrected moving forward. But whatever I said or did was out of patriotism.

Those issues may have been said strongly but they are true. Again, I should have talked to the party as the last bus stop. Next time when I want to talk, I will come and get clearance or at least talk to the party, he said.

No expulsion

The senator also clarified that he was not expelled from the party.

My membership? No, I have not been expelled. Even the party did not say we dont want you here because the party is my father.

The only thing the party said is that If you dont want this house, you can go to any house. But where will I go? This is my house, Mr Ndume added.

He however maintained that his criticisms was not to insult the president or mobilised against the ruling APC.

The president and the Senate have nothing to do with this. The president did not take offence. I didnt insult the president or say anything against the party.

Were satisfied  APC

Responding, Mr Ganduje confirmed that the senator had apologised to the leadership of the party, noting that the party is satisfied with the apology.

The national chairman also disclosed that there is a plan to write to the Senate on the development.

We are quite satisfied with his apology. As he said, we invited him. As a party, the APC is the father of everybody. We are free to invite legislators, members of the executive and even all appointed party members in the government. That is why we decided to come together.

It is a family issue and we need to resolve it. We are writing to the National Assembly to convey what has transpired between Senator Ndume and the party. As you are aware, he has apologised to the party with the hope that they can review their position, Mr Ganduje added.

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Thirty EndBadGovernance protesters arrested in Katsina have been released on bail following the intervention of their lawyers.

The police in Katsina had on Thursday arrested 64 suspects for looting and vandalism during the protest.

The police spokesperson in Katsina, Abubakar Sadiq, confirmed the arrests in an interview with Channels Television on Saturday.

The suspects were subsequently arraigned before several magistrates in the state on Monday.

A lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, in a post on X, said 30 of the 64 arrested protesters arraigned before magistrate courts in Katsina have been granted bail.

He said his lawyers are perfecting the bail of the remaining protesters who were remanded in prison.

Our team of pro bono lawyers under the auspices of LAWYERS FOR RULE OF LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS led by MM Lawal, Esq. and DD Sani, Esq. represented the protesters in Katsina.

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30 of the protesters have been granted bail, and most of the 30 have already regained their freedom. Were still perfecting bail for the remaining, Mr Effiong wrote.

He said the other 34 protesters were in a correctional centre because they were charged with offences only bailable at the high court.

Our team is taking steps to apply for their bail at the High Court.

We will continue to do all we can to offer representation to protesters across the country, he added.

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Fitch Ratings has downgraded Dangote Industries, the conglomerate of companies owned by Africas richest person Aliko Dangote, noting a decline in the groups liquidity position amid operational and financial underperformance.

The latest review of the creditworthiness of the corporation saw Fitch lower its National Long-Term Rating to B+(nga) from AA(nga) and placed the ratings of the group on rating watch negative (RWN).

The slide in Dangote Industries creditworthiness was also influenced by naira devaluation as well as a lack of contracted backup funding to repay its significant debt facilities maturing on 31 August 2024, according to the New York-based firm.

We view the lack of DILs audited accounts for 2023 as a corporate governance issue, it said.

The RWN reflects uncertainty related to the groups ability to refinance maturing debt.

Fitch remarked that a positive rating action is premised only on a significant improvement in the companys liquidity position.

Fitchs assessment diverged from that of GCR Ratings on Monday, which affirmed both the national scale long-term and short-term issuer ratings of AA+(NG) and A1+(NG), respectively accorded to the group.

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GCR based the affirmation of the ratings on the potential significant improvement in Dangote Industries earnings after operations started at the petrochemical refinery in the outskirts of Lagos, with huge earnings similarly anticipated from other subsidiaries within the group.

The ratings are constrained by the adverse impact of the currency devaluation on the profitability and financial position of the group, given its significant foreign debt exposure, GCR said.

It noted that the cumulative N300 billion Series 1 and Series 2 senior unsecured bonds issued by the groups sponsored special purpose, Dangote Industries Funding Plc, in 2022 also bear the same national scale long-term rating as that accorded to Dangote Industries.

Consequently, any change in the groups long-term corporate rating would affect the bonds ratings.

Fitch observed that the nairas devaluation last year triggered a foreign exchange loss of N2.7 trillion for the conglomerate, causing a mismatch between its dollar-denominated debt and local revenues.

It anticipates that weaker retail demand for cement, notably in Nigeria, Dangote Cements largest market, and constraints in passing higher raw material costs to customers will cause Dangote Industries EBITDA margin to fall this year.

EBITDA margin, a key profitability metric, measures a companys cash profit within a year/period and is calculated by expressing earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation as a percentage of revenue.

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Grameen Telecom founder Muhammad Yunus has been named chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim government following the resignation and flight of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Hasina fled Bangladesh on Monday following weeks of protests by student groups. The protests were initially organised in opposition to a government jobs quota system that allegedly favoured Hasinas Awami League party. The focus shifted towards removing Hasina from office after her government organised a violent crackdown which resulted in around 300 protesters losing their lives.

Reuters reports that Yunus, who also founded microfinance group Grameen Bank, was appointed on Tuesday 6th August by Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin following meetings with student leaders and military chiefs.

Yunus is best known as the founder of microcredit lender Grameen Bank, which provides small loans of under $100 to Bangladeshs low-income workers, particularly in rural areas. Yunus won the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for his work with Grameen Bank. In the telecoms sector, he is known for establishing Grameen Telecom, a non-profit that delivers rural telephony services but is also a stakeholder in Grameenphone, Bangladeshs largest mobile operator.

The leaders of the student protests requested Yunus, 84, as the chief advisor for the interim government. Yunus has expressed support for the protests and a dissatisfaction with the Hasina administration, and his spokesperson confirmed that he has agreed to the appointment.

Shahabuddin dissolved parliament on Tuesday in line with demands from student protest groups to allow the interim government to assume power ahead of new elections. His office has confirmed that Begum Khaleda Zia, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister and current leader of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has been freed from house arrest.

In June, Yunus was indicted by a Bangladesh court on charges of embezzlement of around US$2 million from Grameen Telecoms workers fund. Yunus has denied any wrongdoing; he is a well-known critic of Hasina and his supporters claim that the charges are politically motivated. In an interview with Reuters, Yunus described the allegations as very flimsy, made-up stories", adding that Bangladesh had become a one-party state under Hasina. It is currently unclear whether the indictment has been dropped.
The presidency attacked on Tuesday former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his comment warning security agencies against using lethal force against looters and arsonists during the #EndBadGovernance protests.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, responded to Atiku in a statement shared via his X handle late on Tuesday.

Mr Onanuga described Atikus comment as absurd.

He said as a statesman, Atikus warning ought to be to the looting mob in Kaduna, Kano, Plateau and Jigawa states, who hijacked what was advertised by organisers as a peaceful protest.

He said the security forces had remained professional, even-handed, and observed every restraint in the face of extreme provocation by the rioters.

We are surprised that Alhaji Atiku is still relying on section 40 of our constitution (as amended) to justify a protest that is now clearly a riot, a rampage in some parts of the country.

Section 45 of the constitution says the right of assembly and the right of freedom of expression are not absolute.

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They can be abridged and fettered in the interest of public peace, public safety, law, and order, said the presidential aide.

He said the service chiefs reiterated the rights of Nigerians to protest and gather freely.

They, however, reinforced their constitutional duty, today, when they said they cannot sit by idly and watch hoodlums destroy the country and its democracy.

The service chiefs and the officers and men of our security outfits should be commended for their patriotic duty to our country.

As a supporter and enabler of the destructive protests, Alhaji Atiku certainly wants the sinister protest to continue i spite of the red signals from the streets, said Mr Onanuga.

He said a tweet that condoned the destruction of private and public property, and investments of citizens was unbecoming of a former vice president.

He said Atiku ought to have risen above the sentiment he expressed and put the countrys stability ahead of whatever advantages he hoped to reap from the insurrection on the streets.

We encourage Alhaji Atiku to borrow a leaf from opposition figures in the United Kingdom, who have rallied behind the government to condemn the ongoing riots in the UK.

They called for the arrest and prosecution of those behind the wanton destruction of public and private assets.

Such nationalistic temperament as displayed by opposition figures like Rishi Sunak, the immediate-past Prime Minister of UK is expected of Alhaji Atiku, said Mr Onanuga.

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Following the recent disorder in a number of cities in the United Kingdom, British High Commissioner to Nigeria Richard Mongomery has assured the large diaspora population of Nigerians in the UK of their safety and security.

The British High Commissioner told the Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, during a meeting in Abuja. The envoy said 12 towns in total were affected by *disorder*.

Mr Mongomery, however, assured the Nigerian community in the UK that the government is doing everything possible to restore calm and normalcy to the affected communities.

He stated that government has set up 60 special courts comprising of the UK Police and Legal operatives to look into the criminal disorder. The High Commissioner added that over 400 persons have been arrested in connection with the disorder.

He is optimistic that the UK system will sort things out very soon.

The British Envoy emphasised that the United Kingdom is home to people of different countries and races and will remain liberal to qualified persons to live, school and work in the UK.

He also emphasized that the UK will seek justice against those who incite these acts with hatred and disinformation online.

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According to the High Commissioner, We will not as a country accept discrimination or attacks against any community.

Dr Mongomery equally informed that about 430,000 visa Applications by Nigerians were successful this year while advising visa applicants to apply by themselves and be circumspect of agents.

The NIDCOM Boss acknowledges that in the midst of these issues no Nigerian has died or been affected by the disorder so far. She stressed that NiDCOM is in touch with the Nigerian High Commission in London, the large diaspora groups and student groups and none have reported any casualties to date.

She applauded the UK Government for their timely interventions, particularly the arrests made so far.

While reminding Nigerians of the travel advisory issued by Nigerias Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she advised Nigerians in the UK to stay safe and be cautious of their surroundings, particularly at this time.

Also present at the strategic meeting was the British Deputy High Commissioner Gill Lever, First Secretary Political Natalie Palmer, and some Staff Members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, (NiDCOM).

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Organisers of the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protest have announced a three-day mourning period to honour the memories of their fallen colleagues who were killed by security agents during the protests.

The mourning period commences today, Wednesday, 7 August and ends on Friday, 9 August with a public symposium and candlelight procession.

In a statement by Hassan Soweto, Ayoyinka Oni and Adegboyega Adeniji, on behalf of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Organising Committee, Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, Lagos State, the organisers said the decision to declare a mourning period comes after a series of violent attacks on peaceful protesters by police and thugs allegedly sponsored by the state.

Arising from a closed-door organisers meeting today, Tuesday, 6 August 2024, we have declared three days of mourning in Lagos State to honour our fallen colleagues across the country who were killed by trigger-happy police and security agents during the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protest. The three days of mourning will commence on Wednesday, 7 August, with an X Space and end on Friday, 9 August 2024, with a public symposium and candlelight procession.

We hereby urge all Nigerian people and youth who support the struggle against hunger and hardship to do everything they can on a personal level to observe these three days of mourning, which may include wearing black attires as they go out, putting up graphics of the movement on their social media profiles, as well as other individual acts to show solidarity with our fallen heroes, the statement read in part.

The protest organisers encouraged Nigerians to join collective actions, such as the X Space happening on Wednesday, as well as the public symposium and candlelight procession on Friday.

Explaining the rationale for the three-day mourning, they said it was motivated by two things.

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First, the Lagos State government and the Commissioner of Police have made it clear over the course of the past five days that despite assurances to the contrary, they are not in any way prepared to guarantee the right of peaceful protesters to assemble freely without molestation. This explains why, at any slight opportunity, the police at Ojota, as well as at Alausa, have surreptitiously allowed state-sponsored thugs to attack our members and injure them.

This happened yet again on Monday, 5 August 2024, as the protest closed officially, when a band of thugs armed with various weapons descended on peaceful protesters under the watchful eyes of the police. The same thing happened earlier in the day at Alausa, Ikeja.

In both incidents, not only did the police not stop the thugs, but police officers also actually participated actively in dispossessing our attacked members of their mobile phones and valuables. This was only the latest in a permanent cycle of low-scale yet scary violent attacks against us once a little chance presents itself, the statement read.

Given how persistent the attacks have been, the organisers expressed the belief that the police and the thugs were working together to muzzle their voices.

They noted that this has made Ojota unsafe for peaceful protesters hence the decision to re-strategise and consider other forms of engagement to keep the struggle alive until day 10.

They condemned the unprovoked attacks on peaceful protesters and law-abiding Nigerians. They also demanded a public apology from the police as well as the return of all mobile phones and other valuables stolen from protesters by the same police meant to protect them.

Highlighting the second reason for their latest action, the organisers alleged that it was now clear that President Bola Tinubu is on a mission to divide the country and set it aflame so that he can continue to keep himself and the corrupt privileged clique around him in power.

They noted that this explained the heavy-handed and disproportionate killings of protesters in the North and other parts of the country.

At least over 40 protesters, mostly our Northern brothers and sisters, have been killed while hundreds have been arrested and detained over the course of the past few days. We hereby demand the immediate and unconditional release of the National Coordinator of the Youth Rights Campaign (YRC) Adaramoye Michael Lenin, Babatunde Oluajo and the hundreds of protesters arrested across the country.

We stand opposed to the senseless killings of our brothers and sisters for daring to protest hunger and hardship. These three days of mourning are to demonstrate that we shall continue to stand with our siblings from all parts of the country in this dark hour, and together with them, we shall fight for justice for those who have been killed and for an end to all forms of bad governance in this country, the statement added.

The organisers called for the immediate sack of the Inspector General of Police and the setting up of a democratically constituted public probe into the killings, wanton destruction and violence in various parts of the country during the course of the protest.

They urged the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State to respect their rights as citizens to mourn their dead, and called on Mr Tinubu to provide answers to their various demands, which, according to them, have remained unmet.

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Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, has ordered an immediate investigation into the attack on News Central crew while reporting the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, Lagos.

He gave the directive after receiving an official complaint letter from the News Central team, led by the Managing Director, Kayode Akintemi, at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.

The incident occurred on Monday, 6 August, at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park.

In a video seen on the X handle of News Central, the crew was seen reporting the situation of the #EndBadGovernance protest when a mob with sticks and weapons confronted them and asked them to leave.

While reporting, the male presenter in the video alleged that policemen stationed at the approved location of the protest ordered them to leave, making them relocate to the place where thugs attacked them.

According to a statement released on X by the Lagos State Command Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, Mr Fayoade instructed the investigating team to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attack.

The Commissioner of Police @LagosPoliceNG, CP Adegoke Fayoade, has ordered an immediate investigation into this incident.

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He mandated the investigating team to fish out the miscreants and ensure their prosecution accordingly.

He gave this directive today when the crew involved, led by News Central MD, @KayodeAkintemi, submitted an official complaint letter at the Command Headquarters, Ikeja, the statement read.

The Commissioners directive came amid reports of several killings by security agents across the country.

The Lagos State Police Command has, however, assured the public that it will provide updates on the investigation as soon as possible.

The Command also reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of all citizens, including journalists.

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A nursing mother of a two-month-old baby, Esther Osaghae, has appealed to Nigerias Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and the general public to help her unravel the mystery surrounding the death of her 33-year-old husband, Fidelis Osaghae.

Mrs Osaghae said her husband died mysteriously at work in the early hours of Monday, 29 July, noting that the deceaseds boss, Valentine Oyemike, only called her to see the corpse of Mr Osaghae, who only left home hale and hearty less than four hours before his death.

The widow spoke on Tuesday during a press briefing organised by the Akin Fadeyi Foundation (AFF), a non-governmental organisation working on the matter.

Until his death, Mr Osaghae worked as a manager at Valchi Fast Food and Bar, Angle 90 branch, Auchi, Edo State. Mr Oyemike owns the company.

Mrs Osaghae alleged that the employer, Mr Oyemike, a candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 House of Assembly election in Delta State, is yet to come clean on the circumstances surrounding the death of her husband.

She also accused the Auchi Division of Edo State Police Command of poor handling of the matter, saying more than ten days after the incident, the police were yet to make an arrest.

Meanwhile, AFF has petitioned the police headquarters in Abuja, Nigerias capital city, requesting that the IGP, Mr Egbetokun, take over this matter and bring it to a just conclusion.

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A copy of the acknowledged petition, which was signed by AFFs Executive Director, Akin Fadeyi, and obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, noted that the Auchi police division isnt trusted to handle the case, as they were quick to jump to conclusions by exonerating Mr Oyemike from being a part of the death of Mr Osaghae.

That Mr Valentine is an influential person within Auchi, Edo State, and therefore we are not able to risk our vote of confidence in the investigation of the death of Mr Osaghae within such jurisdiction for fear of interference and compromise, the petition reads in part.

However, the Edo State Police Command has said the matter has been transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for further investigations.

But Mr Oyemike declined to comment, saying the police were already conducting investigations.

Family gives account

Giving her account, Mr Osaghaes widow said her husband was never suicidal and that he was used to coming home late in the night because of the nature of his job.

She said on that particular midnight, her husband hurriedly came home by bike around 2:30 a.m. from his workplace, which is said to be a distance of about a 15-minute drive from their home, to take something back to work for his boss.

The deceased reportedly dashed out almost immediately, telling the wife not to lock their door and that he would be back soon.

She said: I started calling my husbands phone after a while, but he wasnt answering his calls. At about 5:00 a.m., when I woke up, I still didnt see my husband beside me because I didnt lock the door. I started calling again but I was unable to reach him.

I decided to call his colleague, Tracey, who is also a supervisor at the place. She eventually picked up after calling several times. She started calling Mana! Mana! Abbreviation for Manager and hung up.

I called her again severally until she picked up and said that everything is under control and ended the call.

Despite several attempts to reach Tracey, Mrs Osaghae said she was unable to get through to her or her husband until later, at about 6:00 a.m., when the employer, Mr Oyemike, called her to come to Favour Hospital, Afasho, in Edo State.

Being a nursing mother, her elder sister, identified simply as Etomi, who was with the wife at home, opted to go to the hospital, but on reaching the hospital, she met the corpse of Mr Osaghae in the car of Mr Oyemike because he was said to have been brought in dead to the hospital (BID).

At the press briefing, a photo of the corpse showed strange marks and injuries on the body of the deceased, which Mr Fadeyi suggests may have been as a result of the torture and pain inflicted on the deceased before he passed on.

AFFs petition

AFF highlighted in the petition that based on the pictorial evidence and the account of the family, we strongly believe Mr Osaghae was in the custody of Mr Oyemike until his death.

The petition reads further: That since this incident occurred Mr Oyemike has been walking freely, and the DPO of the Auchi division, Edo State, has not demonstrated any willingness to take necessary actions toward addressing the matter of this suspicious homicide.

That based on this trajectory, it is clear to us that the events surrounding the death of Mr Fidelis are suspicious.

Mr Fadeyi said his organisation believes there is a presumption of innocence until proven guilty before the law in Nigeria and that such belief informed the decision to request the IGP to take over the case.

We do not have confidence in Edo State Police Command, and that is why the case was asked to be transferred to Abuja. We want the authority to do their job, we trust the confidence of the police to get to the root of the matter. We dont wish to live in such a where justice will be denied, Mr Fadeyi told journalists.

We believe in the capacity of the Nigerian police to get justice for Mrs Esther and we are willing to provide the necessary support in this regard. We look forward to a speedy investigation and appropriate action to address this injustice, he noted.

Company, police speak

When PREMIUM TIMES contacted Mr Oyemike on Tuesday, he admitted Mr Osaghae was his employee.

He, however, said he wouldnt be commenting on the matter because the police were handling it and that it might eventually end up in court, and he hung up the call.

The case is under investigation by the police and I wont be able to say anything. It is currently under investigation and I am sure a court case will be the next thing. It will definitely end in the court for them to have gone this far, he said.

While the family told journalists the matter should be prosecuted, the Divisional Crime Officer of the Auchi Police Division, Abel Oguntula, in his comments, said the father of the deceased said as Jehovahs witnesses, they wouldnt want the matter investigated because they have accepted fate.

We tried to convince them to allow us to investigate, but they said no and we have had similar cases like that where relatives say they dont want investigation, Mr Oguntula told PREMIUM TIMES.

Meanwhile, the new Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the police force in Edo state, Joel Moses, said he would get details of the case and revert before noon. When PREMIUM TIMES called back, Mr Joel said: a press release would be out shortly.

While Mr Moses could not send the statement, he simply said a terse message: The matter has been transferred to the State CID for further investigation. The outcome will be made known as soon as the investigation is concluded please.

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The police in Rivers State, South-south Nigeria, have disclosed details of the alleged siege on the Port Harcourt residence of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, by the #EndBadGovernance protesters.

On Tuesday, the sixth day of the nationwide protest against economic hardship, the protesters reportedly besieged a mansion in Ada George in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area belonging to Mr Wike.

Mr Wike is a former governor of Rivers.

Punch newspaper reported that over 50 protesters targeted the mansion.

According to the newspaper, the protesters marched from Agip Junction and gathered in front of Mr Wikes house, singing Arise, O Compatriots, the old national anthem.

They were, however, prevented from getting close to the house by the police, who formed a barrier around them.

The police armoured personnel carrier stationed in front of the mansion also prevented the protesters from moving closer, PREMIUM TIMES gathered.

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The police spokesperson in Rivers, Grace Iringe-Koko, dismissed reports that the protesters attacked Mr Wikes residence.

The protesters only marched past the building. The police ensured they remained on the other side of the road and did not confront them, Mrs Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, said.

Some minutes later, the protesters left Mr Wikes residence and continued marching forward. They caused a stir when they passed by a mall said to belong to the minister but could not get close to it because of the large number of police operatives.

The #EndBadGovernance protesters are demanding the restoration of petrol subsidies, among other things.

The protests have turned violent in some states.

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Nigerian authorities have arrested seven Polish citizens over their suspected roles in the brandishing of Russian flags in the northern Nigerian city of Kano, officials have said.

The spokesperson of the State Security Service (SSS), Peter Afunanya, confirmed the arrests of the Polish citizens to Reuters but said Polish citizens were not being targeted. He said the suspects were arrested as part of efforts to enforce security in Kano, where anti-government protests have gone violent and curfew has been imposed.

Reuters also quoted Stanislaw Gulinski, the Polish consul to Nigeria, as confirming the arrests at a meeting he and other diplomats had with Nigerias foreign minister, Yusuf Tuggar.

PREMIUM TIMES reported the display of Russian flags by some protesters in northern Nigerian cities such as Kano and Kaduna.

Some of the protesters who carried the flags told this newspaper that they did so to spite the Nigerian government, which they accuse of implementing policies that have worsened the economic situation for millions of citizens.

The Russian embassy in Nigeria denied any responsibility, saying in a statement that the flags are personal choices of the protesters and do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government.

Nigerian protesters carrying Russian flags over the weekend were openly calling for a coup detat by the army.

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The government has described the display of foreign flags and the calls for military coup by some protesters as treason, saying such individuals would be arrested.

Scores of such protesters and the tailors who sewed the flags have been arrested.

Under Nigerian law, treason is a capital offence. The police said individuals engaged in the act will be treated and charged accordingly.

Also on Wednesday, the Nigerian government formally asked the countrys diplomatic community to refrain from interfering in the ongoing nationwide protests.

Government will take appropriate action against any foreign entity residing in Nigeria found to have directly or indirectly supported protesters by whatever means or seeks to interfere in the internal affairs, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar said at a meeting with ambassadors and other diplomats.

Young Nigerians have been protesting since 1 August against economic hardship and hunger in the country. The protests, which turned deadly in at least six northern states, have seen 22 people killed so far during demonstrations, Amnesty International said, with more protesters killed in Kano, the rights group said. The police have, however, disputed the figures.

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for an extensive probe into all the killings associated with the #EndBadGovernance protests which began on 1 August.

The former Peoples Democratic Partys presidential candidate made the call via his X handle on Wednesday, in the aftermath of the Nigerian Army owning up to the shooting of a16-year-old boy by a soldier in Zaria, Kaduna State.

The boy, Ismail Mohammed, was gunned down by a soldier during the protest on Tuesday.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that the incident happened in Samaru, a famous town in Zaria, Kaduna State, with the Nigerian Army confirming the development in a statement by the Director of Army Public Relations, Onyema Nwachukwu.

Mr Nwachukwu had said that the troops received a distress call about hoodlums gathering and burning tyres.

He said the troops tried to disperse the crowd when the situation went out of hand, forcing a soldier to fire a warning shot that claimed Ismails life.

Atiku reacts

Reacting, Atiku described it as a tragic incident that resulted in the loss of a young protesters life, calling on authorities to launch an investigation into extrajudicial killings by soldiers and other security forces in a bid to enhance Nigerias democracy.

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I am heartened by the acknowledgement made by the Nigerian Army regarding the tragic incident that resulted in the loss of a young protesters life. I also urge for thorough investigations into other instances of violence perpetrated by the military, police, and other security agencies during these protests, in the spirit of accountability.

The decision to detain the soldier responsible for this unfortunate incident marks a commendable step towards accountability and preserving the rule of law.

I have consistently advised the service chiefs and military commanders that the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters must not be authorized, his reaction posted on X read.

I am heartened by the acknowledgement made by the Nigerian Army regarding the tragic incident that resulted in the loss of a young protesters life. I also urge for thorough investigations into other instances of violence perpetrated by the military, police, and other security  Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) August 7, 2024

Call for accountability

Atiku also commended the Nigerian Army for a swift arrest of the culprit, saying that it would go a long way in restoring accountability in the country.

Upholding the principle of accountability is paramount, and the actions taken by the Nigerian Army in apprehending and, hopefully, prosecuting the soldier responsible for this incident align with this fundamental principle.

Even amidst conflicts, it is crucial to adhere to rules of engagement. Soldiers should not be deployed to suppress civil rights protests, he stressed.

The comment has garnered 147,000 views as of the time of filing this report.

Atikus earlier criticism of the use of lethal force security agencies against looters during the protests, which began on 1 August, drew the presidencys attack late Tuesday.

The #EndBadGovernance protest

On 1 August, aggrieved Nigerians began the #EndBadGovernance protests, meant to run for 10 days, against bad governance, corruption and lack of accountability in government.

The protests were sparked by lack of sensitivity of public officers and the high costs of living resulting from President Bola Tinubus economic policies, including removal of fuel subsidies and devaluation of the naira.

More than 20 persons have been killed by security forces during the protests in the northern part of the country, where hoodlums have looted stores under the pretext of participating in the demonstrations.

On Monday, this newspaper reported that the Kaduna State Government imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria metropolis when the demonstrations turned violent.

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President Bola Tinubu has appointed governing councils for more tertiary institutions.

The affected institutions are six colleges of education and two specialised higher institutions. They are different from 13 universities and inter-university centres which were captured in the announcement of the governing councils earlier made on Wednesday by the presidency.

The appointments were announced in two separate statements signed by Mr Tinubus Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.

Mr Tinubu had, earlier in June, appointed governing councils for federal tertiary institutions following an ultimatum issued by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

ASUU, at different forums, had listed the consequences of the governments failure to appoint governing councils for the institutions, noting that the development had not only hampered the smooth administration of these institutions but also undermined their autonomy and enhanced corrupt practices.

New list

The new list contains colleges of education and aviation and maritime colleges.

Mr Ngelales statement noted that the president urged the new appointees to deploy their wealth of experience in developing the institutions.

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The President expects that the new members of the governing boards of these institutions will perform their functions effectively and creditably and within the ambits of their statutory responsibilities, he wrote.

The institutions and the appointees are listed below:

FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), YAURI, KEBBI STATE

(1) Ismaila Gadaka  Chairman

(2) Abdulhakeem Adegoke  Member

(3) Pam Ishaya  Member

(4) Abubakar Sadique Fakai  Member

(5) Zara Duamlong Usman  Member

FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), ISU, EBONYI STATE

(1) Mohammed Sani Takori  Chairman

(2) Dauda Onipede  Member

(3) Victor Mela Danzaria  Member

(4) Solomon Ayuba  Member

(5) Mario Eno Owumi  Member

FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ODUGBO, BENUE STATE

(1) Baba Alphonsus Homsuk  Chairman

(2) Kayode Ajiboye  Member

(3) Rex Ogbonna  Member

(4) Jude Ngaji  Member

(5) John Yada Viko  Member

FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, JAMAARE, BAUCHI STATE

(1) Aisha Yelwa Ibrahim Tahir  Chairman

(2) Dorren Ikedi Udechukwu  Member

(3) Bar Brass Yaji  Member

(4) Mustapha Shehu  Member

(5) Joshua Oludare Adewale  Member

FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, GIDAN MADI, SOKOTO

(1) Abdullahi Adamu  Chairman

(2) Olatunji Akinbiyi  Member

(3) Mohammed Adamu Malala  Member

(4) Saleh Musa Audu  Member

(5) Lami Ehi Oguogho  Member

FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

(1) Tukur Jikamshi  Chairman

(2) Abdullahi Adamu Loko  Member

(3) Asimiyu Alarape  Member

(4) Abubakar Abubakar Bello  Member

(5) Christopher Okaeben  Member

MARITIME ACADEMY OF NIGERIA, ORON, AKWA IBOM STATE

(1) Kehinde Akinola  Chairman

(2) Shehu Maigari Doguwa  Member

(3) Samuel Isichei  Member

(4) Faisal Lawal Halidu  Member

NIGERIAN COLLEGE OF AVIATION TECHNOLOGY, ZARIA, KADUNA STATE

(1) Anthony Manzo  Chairman

(2) Ngozi Okuoma  Member

(3) Durungunwa Abdulmalik  Member

(4) Biodun Taiwo  Member

(5) Florence Toyin Olorunfemi  Member

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Global data centre company Vantage Data Centres officially broke ground on its second Malaysian data centre in Cyberjaya on Tuesday, whilst also signing a deal with electricity company TNB to power it.

The new data centre, KUL2, will be constructed on 35 acres of land next to Vantages existing data centre campus, KUL1. The KUL2 campus  which Vantage claims is the largest hyperscale data center campus in the city  is designed to support cloud adoption and growth of AI with 256MW of IT capacity.

Vantage says that KUL1 and KUL2 will sport a total capacity of 287MW once both campuses are fully developed.

The KUL2 campus also has its own dedicated 275kV high-voltage substation via a electricity supply agreement (ESA) with TNB, which was revealed on Tuesday at the groundbreaking ceremony. The substation will supply 500MVA-rated power capacity for KUL2.

TNBs chief retail officer Kamal Arifin A. Rahman said TNBs Green Lane Pathway initiative has enabled it to cater more directly to the needs of Malaysias fact-growing data centre market.

Under TNBs Green Lane Pathway initiative, we have streamlined the process of powering data centers by bringing together all requirements for grid connectivity to be handled through our One-Stop-Centre (OSC), he said.

The KUL2 campus is part of Vantages pledge in May last year to invest an additional planned US$3 billion (MYR13.32 billion) in Malaysia, after entering the market via its acquisition of PCCW DC in 2021. Vantage subsequently signed a deal with Cyberview (the government firm tasked with developing Cyberjaya) to secure land to build KUL2.

Cyberview CEO Kamarul Ariffin Abdul Samad commented that the new Vantage campus was a testament to the popularity of Cyberjaya as a data centre hub. According to Malaysian news agency Bernama, he said Cyberjaya currently hosts 15 data centres, including hyper, from big names like Equinix, Bridge Data Centres, EdgeConneX, Microsoft and NTT.

He also told Bernama that several more data centre announcements for Cyberjaya are in the pipeline.

I cannot reveal it now because it is still in negotiation. We will make the announcement at the right time, he said.

Cyberjaya is in direct competition with the southern city of Johor Bahru, which has also become a magnet for data centre investment. According to data centre portal Baxtel, there are currently 14 data centres operated by 12 companies in Johor Bahru, including AirTrunks flagship 150MW hyperscale data centre that opened shop last week.

Johor Bahrus key advantage is its closer geographical proximity to Singapore, where data centre demand is outstripping capacity and driving companies to seek data centre space in nearby locations like Johor and Cyberjaya, as well as Batam in Indonesia.

The country has seen a blitz of new data centre projects in the past year alone. In Jume, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia approved MYR114.7 billion (US$24.3 billion) worth of investments in data centres and cloud services between 2021 and 2023.

Malaysia has the edge to facilitate more data centres, particularly AI-focused data centres that could also support Malaysias aim to create 3,000 smart factories by 2030, said Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Malaysia's Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), at the Vantage event Tuesday. All these will help Malaysia position itself as a leading regional hub for AI-enabled manufacturing.
The demands of the 1989 and 2024 protesters are virtually the same; they include protests against hunger, impoverishment, currency devaluation and the removal of subsidies. They basically reflect the miserable situation confronting the nation, which centres and revolves around the need for a democratic culture, development, social justice, and independence from the International Monetary Fund and World Bank.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former military ruler, Ibrahim Babangida, share a lot in common. The latter shot his way to power, while Tinubu won a controversial presidential election, refereed by the Independent National Electoral Commission. Both are known to be manipulative and divisive. They believe that power is synonymous with wisdom, while money can purchase anyone and anything.

With money and power, they imagine that people in society, like zombies, can be ordered right, left, and centre. To them, money is the weapon and power is the goal. For egoistic reasons, they are capable of setting society ablaze to remain power.

Babangida, in his eight years in power, adopted the highly destructive Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP). Tinubu, since 29 May, 2023, has been unquestionably implementing neoliberalism. SAP and neoliberalism are the same.

They were both invented and imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank (WB) and serve the same purpose of dehumanising and impoverishing the hapless populations of underdeveloped countries. Through the use of witchcraft incantations and crude power, both institutions impose their policies on hapless countries  with crude, inhuman and racist conditionalities.

The conditionalities are aimed at rolling back the state in economic and societal development, and enthroning the private sector in the affairs of the state, the economy and society. The conditionalities include privatisation, de-subsidisation, commercialisation of social services, currency devaluation and mass retrenchment.

Since 1986, the conditionalities have led to de-industrialisation, primitive accumulation, retrenchment, hunger, poverty, insecurity, illiteracy, diseases, and hopelessness. They have also sharpened authoritarianism, subverted democracy, regressed development, disempowered the working people, and subordinated the Nigeria state to the IMF, WB and Western powers.

But SAP/neoliberalism have equally triggered popular struggles for democracy, development and social justice. It sparked the 1989 anti-SAP nationwide protests under Babangida. Today, 35 years later, it has sparked the ongoing #EndBadGovernance national protests under President Tinubu.

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The demands of the 1989 and 2024 protesters are virtually the same; they include protests against hunger, impoverishment, currency devaluation and the removal of subsidies. They basically reflect the miserable situation confronting the nation, which centres and revolves around the need for a democratic culture, development, social justice, and independence from the International Monetary Fund and World Bank.

In 1989, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the arrowhead of the protests, demanded the immediate termination of SAP; the guarantee of full employment to all Nigerians; release of jailed electricity union leaders and labour activists; free education at all levels; increase in education funding, academic freedom, democratisation of the campuses, and termination of military rule.

State reaction to the protesters, both in 1989 and 2024, was fierce. Many of them were arrested and detained. A great number were severely injured, maimed or killed. A few security personnel were also wounded or killed. Journalists were teargassed, harassed and detained. Properties were looted and destroyed by some protesters.

The #EndBadGovernance organisers are demanding the termination of IMF/WB neoliberalism; a stop to the privatisation or commercialisation of public enterprises; the reversal of petrol prices and electricity tariffs; an end to banditry, kidnapping and general insecurity; payment of N100,000  not N70,000  as National Minimum Wage; and the use of public funds for the public good.

Many of the placards carried in 1989 stated: NO TO IMF/WORLD BANK!; SAP MUST GO!; WE ARE DYING OF HUNGER IN THE NAME OF SAP!; BABANGIDA MUST GO. Those being carried in 2024 declare: THIS HUNGER IS TOO MUCH; END UNEMPLOYMENT; END POVERTY; END HUNGER; END SUFFERING; END BAD GOVERNANCE; NA BECAUSE OF BAD GOVT. I NEVER SEE HUSBAND; NIGERIANS DESERVE BETTER!!! LET THE POOR BREATH; NIGERIANS ARE READY (TO DIE) FOR A NEW NAIJA!!!.

Children, students, youths, and the lumpen or agberos were the marching forces in both protests. In all, the protesters are/were hungry, furious and fierce.

In 1989, a forty-three-year-old unemployed protester in Lagos said: Life in heaven or hell should be more peaceful than here. This is worse than hell I prefer death to living here.

In 2024, Kano protesters chanted, in Hausa: Rather than hunger to kill us, let bullets kill us. Others chanted, We want military rule. Yet, others called on Nigerians, irrespective of their differences, to pray that God eliminates all those responsible for hunger, poverty, insecurity, hardship, and bad governance in the country.

Society understood, empathised and supported the protesters. In 1989, it was reported that in Benin City, Wherever they (students) marched, it was as if the market women, school children, jobless (folks), and all shades of Benin residents had been waiting for them. They whole of Benin residents were up in protest. It was the same in other parts of the country.

In the #EndBadGovernance protests, videos of marching crowds of protesters make the moving forest in William Shakespeares Macbeth a childs play. The security personnel in the South toyed with protesters, and in other places, they played hide-and-seek as people defied the curfews imposed by states.

State reaction to the protesters, both in 1989 and 2024, was fierce. Many of them were arrested and detained. A great number were severely injured, maimed or killed. A few security personnel were also wounded or killed. Journalists were teargassed, harassed and detained. Properties were looted and destroyed by some protesters.

But there are some differences. The 1989 anti-SAP protests were organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and led by its ideologically motivated and organisationally disciplined leaders and activists. The NANS Charter of Demands was their scripture then.

Babangida was frightened and horrified by the 1989 protest; yet he was composed and crude in suppressing the protests. Tinubu is intimidated, jittery and beggarly but violent in suppressing the protests. The government used thugs to counter the protests in some instances, even before they had begun. Its officials begged organisers to call-off the protest. Some religious clerics and celebrities were also used to stop or discourage the protests.

The 2024 #EndBadGovernance is organised by a loose coalition of organisations, dominated by youths, with dedregulated leaders and activists, promoting different political tendencies and agenda. Rank-and-file students, not NANS as a body, actively participated in organising the protest.

In 1989, the military junta was not given any official notice or ultimatum for the protests, but in 2024 the government was given a one-month notice.

The 1989 protest was not supported in any way by the mainstream politicians. They were afraid that doing so would jeopardise their participation in the Military Transition to Civil Rule Programme.

In 2024, opposition politicians have expressed support for the protests. Abubakar Atiku, for instance, described them as noteworthy, and a pivotal moment for our collective voice to be heard. He added that the protests, have opened a vital channel for the public to express disapproval of government policies However, basically, the leading opposition politicians like Atiku and Peter Obi share the same economic policies, such as removal of subsidies, as the Tinubu administration has done.

The 1989 protests, lasted one week, while the 2024 protest is billed for ten days.

The #EndBadGovernance protesters were in places like Abuja and Lagos attacked by paid hoodlums who were often escorted, protected or encouraged by the security forces. In some states, the coordinators of the protests were overwhelmed by protesters, who were fired by hunger and the heavy-handed responses of government.

Babangida was frightened and horrified by the 1989 protest; yet he was composed and crude in suppressing the protests. Tinubu is intimidated, jittery and beggarly but violent in suppressing the protests. The government used thugs to counter the protests in some instances, even before they had begun. Its officials begged organisers to call-off the protest. Some religious clerics and celebrities were also used to stop or discourage the protests.

So, governments that fail to learn from the past, repeat its horrors.

Ahmed Aminu-Ramatu Yusuf worked as deputy director, Cabinet Affairs Office, The Presidency, and retired as General Manager (Administration), Nigerian Meteorological Agency, (NiMet). Email: aaramatuyusuf@yahoo.com

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The Taraba State Government has suspended two senior civil servants for alleged job racketeering.

The state Head Of the Civil Service (HOS), Paul Tino, disclosed this to journalists in Jalingo, the state capital, on Tuesday.

He said one of the suspended officers is a staff member of the State Civil Service Commission (CSC), while the other is in the office of the state accountant-general.

Mr Tino said Governor Agbu Kefas had directed him and the accountant-general, Gaius Danjumastatesdit the states staff payroll following complaints about ghost workers in the state.

The directive given to myself and the states accountant-general by the governor was to carry out verification exercises to fish out ghost workers to assist us in gettingg this result, he stated.

He said a committee that conducted the exercise discovered that the two suspended officers issued fake appointment letters to some graduates under the preceding administration.

Mr Tino said the number of those with fake appointment letters had yet to be ascertained because the investigation was still ongoing.

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While we were carrying out the screening exercise to authenticate genuine civil servants, we discovered that some youth recruited by the previous administration of Governor Darius Ishaku last year were given fake appointment letters.

When we discovered the fake appointment letters, we withdrew them and set up a committee which later exposed the atrocities the two officers committed. They connived and printed fake appointment letters for many unemployed youth, Mr Tino said.

He said the unnamed officers would remain on suspension without salaries until the investigation is concluded.

In 2021, the administration of Mr Ishaku lifted an embargo on employment in the state civil service.

Subsequently, the state CSC directed indigenes to apply by obtaining an online application form for N3,500.

Findings show that during that exercise, the suspended officers allegedly sold employment letters to hundreds of graduates.

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Some residents of Ado, Karu Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State, on Wednesday, complained that the 12 hour curfew in the area was interrupting business activities.

The residents told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Karu that the dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed by the Karu LGA had hampered their businesses.

NAN reports that following the #EndBadGovernance protest in Nigeria, Karlmu LGA imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew to curtail the activities of miscreants, and further breach of law and order.

Evelyn Imagbedion, a businesswoman in Ado, said that her business had suffered losses because of the curfew.

My business is experiencing delay because I can no longer go to the market as early as I used to before due to the curfew.

I pray that this protest ends soon, and the curfew cancelled so that I can continue with my business, she said.

Moses Udoh, a barber, said that his patronage had reduced because customers who patronised him in the evenings could no longer come out because of the curfew.

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I am appealing to the government to meet the demands of the protesters so that things will return to normalcy, he said.

Janet Bello, a shop owner in Ado, also complained that her business was experiencing a downturn because of the restrictions on movement.

(NAN)

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Some of the protesters in Kano who waved Russian flags or saw others do so have spoken about their actions.

A journalist, who embedded with the protesters and requested one of the flags in the Kurna area of the Kano metropolis, was directed to a man later identified as a member of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN)

The journalist, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, said members of the Shiite group started waving the Russian flags before other protesters bought into the idea.

However, another protester, who identified himself as Haruna told PREMIUM TIMES that he was not an IMN member. He said a man brought the flags to them at the protest ground to spite the Nigerian government.

I dont know him, but what is the Nigerian government doing to us? The government must listen to our concerns; they must bring back the fuel subsidy. The only flag that I cannot raise is that of Israel, Mr Haruna said.

Kano is a predominantly Muslim state with most of the population being Sunni Muslims. Anti-Israeli sentiments run high among most of the Muslim population.

An IMN member in the Fagge local council area, Isah Bawa, acknowledged the participation of the groups members in the protest and the use of Russian flags but denied that it was an order from the Shiite organisation.

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Shite members took part in the protest like other Nigerians who are hungry but there is no formal instruction from our leaders for members to wave the Russian flag, Mr Bawa said.

Abdullahi Maishayi, a tea vendor, was arrested by the State Security Service (SSS) on Sunday for hoisting the Russian flag at his tea joint in the Fagge area.

He told PREMIUM TIMES he was released hours later after he denied knowing the person who put the flag there.

Its a tea joint, we host all categories of people. I dont know whether the person who hoisted the flag at the joint is a Shiite because I was not around when the flag was hoisted, Mr Maishayi, who is not an IMN member, said.

A spokesperson for the IMN, Abdullahi Musa, did not respond to phone calls and text messages to comment on the development.

The waving of the Russian flags in the #EndBadGovernance protests in Kano became noticeable on Sunday and Monday at specific locations within the town.

Hundreds of demonstrators waving the flags on IBB Way in Kano on Monday exploited the relaxation of a curfew imposed by the state government to continue the protest.

PREMIUM TIMES observed that several groups of protesters later adopted the Russian flags in the state, with many saying they had no political motive to do so.

The Russian embassy in Nigeria said the Russian government was not involved in its national flags being flown during the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest.

In a statement on Monday, the embassy said neither the government nor Russian officials were connected to the trend.

The Nigerian government has condemned the waving of the Russian flags and calls for a military takeover by some protesters. The government said such acts are treasonable.

President Bola Tinubu acknowledged that many of the protesters were genuine but failed to make any concessions to them. He refused to reintroduce petrol subsidies and has not indicated a willingness to slash the salaries and allowances of public officials as demanded by the protesters.

The #EndBadGovernance protesters have left the streets in Kano State after the demonstration was marred by wanton looting and destruction of properties.

While the peaceful protesters have withdrawn from the streets, some hoodlums continued to loot stores and residential areas.

On Saturday, the Kano State government relaxed the 24-hour curfew it imposed on Friday to stop violence and criminality.

The Kano government on Tuesday relaxed the restriction on movement to 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. after normalcy gradually returned to the state after the violent protest.

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Several miners have been killed by terrorists loyal to Bello Kaura, a notorious bandits leader in Zamfara State, last weekend.

Several local sources, including miners, told PREMIUM TIMES that Mr Kauras group launched the attack as part of an ongoing clash with another terrorist group led by Halilu Sububu.

Mr Sububu controls most mining sites in the Bagega and Sunke areas of Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

In recent years, Mr Sububu, one of the most feared terrorists in the North-west, has turned to mining gold, assuming control of mining sites in the vast forest straddling the Anka-Maru  Tsafe areas in the state.

A PREMIUM TIMES investigation revealed how Mr Sububu uses local miners, including teenagers, to mine gold for him.

He has taken control of communities in western and eastern Anka, promising residents protection if they continue to support his mining activities.

Mr Sububu, also called Buzu, has close ties with Jihadists and other terrorists in Niger Republic, Mali, Libya and Burkina Faso. He also deals in weapons.

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The Nigerian military has since declared him wanted for terrorism.

The attack

A resident of Dareta in Anka, Isa Dareta, told PREMIUM TIMES via phone that the attack by Mr Kaura and his fighters lasted for over an hour.

The mining sites are all situated outside Dan Kamfani village, and the sites all belong to Halilu Buzu, the source said. On Saturday around 4 p.m, Bello Kaura led his fighters to the place looking for Halilu Sububu.

Mr Dareta said the terrorists, on sighting people around the pits, started shooting at them.

One of the mining pits caved in, but it was empty, he added.

A handful of bandits loyal to Mr Sububu, who were guarding the miners, fired back at Mr Kaura but were overpowered, forcing them to withdraw.

The bandits ran with their rifles, leaving behind their motorcycles and the civilian miners.

Mr Dareta, who lives not far from Dan Kamfani, insisted the attack was targeted at Mr Sububu himself.

However, a miner who worked for Mr Sububu in several mining sites said the civilian miners were the target.

Halilu doesnt live around the sites in Dan Kamfani. He has his camp around Bagega town and is living peacefully with people there, the miner, who asked for anonymity for fear of being attacked, said.

Bello Kaura knows that Halilu was not around and decided to use the opportunity to attack the mining sites to instil fear in the miners. He wouldnt dare to do that when Halilu was around.

Two more sources, including a Fulani elder in the area, confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES that Mr Sububu was in Maradun Local Government Area during the attack.

I cant tell you how many people were killed, but we have seven dead bodies after the shooting, Mr Dareta said.

The miner also said he couldnt confirm the number of those killed.

Sworn enemies

Messrs Sububu and Kaura are sworn enemies, but this was the first time the two terrorists were engaged in a fight.

Mr Sububu, according to PREMIUM TIMES sources, was the first terrorist to embrace mining in the area. He left his base in Sububu and relocated to Bagega, a business community between Anka and Maru local government areas.

When he (Mr Sububu) started mining in Dan Kamfani, none of the terrorists in the area believed mining was worth pursuing. But when he started getting millions of naira, some of them started taking over pits far away from Halilu (Mr Sububu), the miner told PREMIUM TIES.

Mr Kauras elder brother, Alhaji Shadari, himself a notorious terrorist, was invited by Mr Sububu to stop attacking communities and embrace mining, but he rejected the invitation, according to the miner.

He said Mr Shadari, who the Nigerian military had killed, continued attacking communities.

Bello (Mr Kaura) is angry with Halilu (Mr Sububu) for several reasons, the miner said. Halilu is protecting most of the communities, especially in west and east Anka, forcing Bello to stop attacking people.

He added that Mr Sububu has also assumed total control of most of the mining sites, making it difficult for other terrorists to have access to the mining sites.

There was a time when Bello sent a letter to Halilu asking him to leave the area since he was not from Anka or Maru. He also asked for a share of some of the mining sites, which Halilu refused to grant him, the miner said.

According to the miner, Mr Sububu has taken total control of mining sites in Bagega, Kwanta Kwanta, Damar Manu, Dareta, Kwayakwas, Dan Kamfani, Mai Galma, Tungar Daji, Dawan Jiya, Bawar Daji and Gobirawa

Terrorists in the North-west are turning to other sources of money to finance their terrorist activities.

In an earlier interview, Murtala Ahmed-Rufai, a researcher on banditry, told PREMIUM TIMES that terrorists are diversifying their operations.

Bandits decided to join mining to diversify, especially because most of the communities they target are no longer financially strong enough to pay ransom or levies. Banditry has transformed from cattle rustling, abduction, kidnapping of school children, imposition of levies and tax to mining, Mr Ahmad-Rufai said

Mr Ahmad-Rufai, the author of Im A Bandit  and teacher at the Usmanu Dan Fodiyo University, Sokoto, said terrorists in the areas are joining mining because it has become more lucrative than kidnapping.

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The Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Mike Odere, says the state requires N100 billion to fix government assets that were destroyed during the EndSARS protest in 2020.

Mr Odere disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Calabar on Wednesday.

He said that the level of destruction during the EndSARS protest made the state government stand firmly against violent protests.

Knowing the cost implications of repairing or replacing assets, we chose not to allow a repeat, he said.

The commissioner commended the people of Cross River for supporting the governments position on non-violent protests, saying, We need to promote peace all the time.

Mr Odere said that the ongoing nationwide protest had severely affected the economy because several public and private businesses had been shut down.

We know the country is challenged, but its not unique to Nigeria. We must be decorous in our protests; violence does not pay.

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The essence of protest is not to destroy; it should be to make a change. We protest to be heard; we protest to say that things are not being done rightly.

It can no longer be called a protest when we begin to infringe on the fundamental rights of others, he said.

Mr Odere said that Governor Bassey Otu-led government was fully aware of the current situation in the country and that government, at all levels, was working to enthrone a change.

In Cross River, the government is carrying out several reforms to improve the living standard of the residents.

Our efforts in education, agriculture, solid minerals, security, among others, are visible. We are aware of our mandate to serve our state, he said.

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Fatima Latifova

Gary Jones, regional president of bp for Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkiye, addressed a letter to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ali Asadov, on the occasion of the completion of the first phase of the seismic research program with new 4-dimensional (4D) high-precision subsea nodes in the Azeri-Chirag-Darsulu Guneshli (ACG) field, Azernews reports.

In the letter, it was emphasized that the project, whose implementation period is 5 years, is the largest seismic data collection program ever implemented by bp in the world.

It was stated that the purpose of the seismic research program is to obtain detailed information about the architecture and fluid contact dynamics of the ACG deposit. It was noted that conducting the research will help ACG partners to effectively optimize the development of the field in the future.

G. Jones reported that the first seismic survey, which began in January 2024, was completed ahead of schedule and with less budget than planned.

The government of Azerbaijan is thanked for supporting this research, which is an important step in securing the future of the ACG field.

At the same time, confidence was expressed that close cooperation between Azerbaijan and BP will continue.

In his reply letter, Prime Minister Ali Asavov highly appreciated the contribution of bp company and all partners to the implementation of this research program, which is the next success story of effective cooperation between the government of Azerbaijan and bp for many years.

Confidence was expressed that the next stages of the aforementioned program will be successfully implemented with joint efforts and will serve to maximize the oil production potential of the ACG field in the future.

It was emphasized that in accordance with the priority tasks set before the government by the President of Azerbaijan, necessary support will be continuously provided to the activities of BP in our country and mutually beneficial cooperation.
Clearwater Paper lost $25.8 million in April, May and June, its 2024 second quarter, leaving the company with a loss of $8.6 million for the first half of its 2024 fiscal year.

The second quarter loss followed the first quarter in 2024 where Clearwater Paper reported earnings of $17.2 million.

Lewiston, the home of Clearwater Papers largest manufacturing complex, played a significant role in the results, according to a Tuesday news release from Clearwater Paper.

The business experienced a decrease in operating income and adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization for pulp and paperboard (EBITDA) compared with the same time last year, according to the news release.

Pulp and paperboard had an operating loss of $12 million for the second quarter of this year compared with an operating income of $42 million in the second quarter of 2023, according to the news release.

Adjusted EBITDA was $11 million in the 2024 second quarter, compared with $51 million in the 2023 second quarter.

The declines were driven by a scheduled major maintenance outage in Lewiston and lower sales prices, which were partially offset by lower wood costs and an insurance recovery related to cold weather in Lewiston last winter, according to the news release.

Clearwater Paper invested $75 million at its Lewiston site this year, with the largest share of the money, $35 million, going to rebuild one of two recovery boilers used in a process that converts wood chips into pulp for tissue and paperboard, according to a March update.

The 15-story-tall recovery boiler was originally constructed in 1988 and is where the expensive chemicals required for pulp making are recovered so they can be reused.

The recovery boilers and a wood waste boiler create steam, which runs equipment and is channeled through turbines that generate electricity.

The work was more challenging than Clearwater Paper expected and the company is now planning to move to annual maintenance outages to make them smaller and more predictable, said Arsen Kitch, Clearwater Papers president and CEO, in a conference call Tuesday for stock market analysts.

Sales volumes in paperboard rose by 46% to 272,585 tons compared with the same time last year, primarily driven by the companys May 1 acquisition of a paperboard plant in Augusta, Ga., Kitch said.

But average net sale prices in paperboard decreased 14% to $1,216 per ton for the second quarter of 2024, compared with $1,413 per ton for the same time last year, according to the news release.

A bright spot in paperboard, which makes paper dishes and packaging for food service, is that it is showing solid and growing demand, Kitch said.
A Power-Efficient, Air-Cooled AI Server With Over 400 TOPS Of Performance

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- AIC, a global leader in design and manufacturing of industrial-strength servers, in partnership with Unigen Corporation has launched the EB202-CP-UG, an ultra-efficient Artificial Intelligence (AI) inference server boasting over 400 trillion operations per second (TOPS) of performance. This innovative server is designed around the robust EB202-CP, a 2U Genoa-based storage server featuring a removable storage cage. By integrating eight Unigen Biscotti E1.S AI modules in place of standard E1.S SSDs, AIC is offering a specialized configuration for AI, the EB202-CP-UGan air-cooled AI inference server characterized by an exceptional performance-per-watt ratio that ensures long-term cost savings.

AIC Partners with Unigen to Launch Ultra-Efficient AI Inference Server

"We are excited to partner with AIC to introduce innovative AI solutions," said Paul W. Heng, Founder and CEO of Unigen. "Their commitment to excellence in every product, especially their storage servers, made it clear that our AI technology would integrate seamlessly."

Michael Liang, President and CEO of AIC, stated, "By collaborating with Unigen to carve out a technological niche in AI, we have successfully demonstrated an efficient, powerful, air-cooled server that aligns perfectly with our customers' stringent requirements."

The EB202-CP-UG is built on the Capella Motherboard platform, which accommodates the AMD EPYC (Genoa) CPU. It features a unique daughter-card/baseboard specifically designed for EDSFF signals from E1.S modules, combined with 128GB of high-speed DDR5 memory and dual power-efficient modular power supplies. Driven by eight Unigen Biscotti E1.S AI modules, each equipped with twin Hailo-8 AI Inference Accelerators, the server achieves an impressive 21,500 frames per second (FPS) in Resnet_V1_50. Leveraging the new AVX technology in the AMD server CPU, the EB202-CP-UG is capable of decoding one hundred 720P video streams at 25 frames per second each, while conducting AI analytics on each frame with significant processing headroom.

When paired with a Linux Ubuntu OS and VMS/AI software from Network Optix, this AI inference server offers unparalleled safety, security, and peace of mind for the most discerning IT and security professionals.

The EB202-CP-UG AI Inference Server is available for purchase now. Check out a demo of the EB202-CP-UG at the Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) at AIC's booth (#915) from August 6th to 8th. Please contact AIC, and we'll connect you with your local AIC System Integrator to begin your AI journey.

About AIC

AIC is a global leader in server and storage solutions. With nearly 30 years of expertise in high-density storage servers, storage server barebones, and high-performance computers, we've expanded into AI storage and edge appliances, achieving significant market recognition for our branded products. Our in-house design, manufacturing, and validation capabilities ensure our products are highly flexible and configurable to meet any requirements.

Headquartered in Taiwan, AIC operates offices and facilities across the United States, Asia, and Europe. Learn more at aicipc.com.

Follow AIC on LinkedIn and Facebook for the latest news.

About Unigen Corporation

Unigen, founded in 1991, is an established global leader in the design and manufacture of original and custom SSD, DRAM, NVDIMM modules and Enterprise IO solutions. Headquartered in Newark, California, the company operates state of the art manufacturing facilities (ISO-9001/14001/13485 and IATF 16949) in the Silicon Valley Bay Area of California and near Hanoi Vietnam, along with 5 additional engineering and support facilities located around the globe. Unigen markets its products to both enterprise and client OEMs worldwide focused on embedded, industrial, networking, server, telecommunications, imaging, automotive and medical device industries. Unigen also offers best in class electronics manufacturing services (EMS), including new product introduction and volume production, supply chain management, assembly & test, TaaS (Test-as-a-Service) and post-sales support. Learn more at unigen.com.

Media Contact for AIC

Devin Moran

+1 (626) 762-0652

[email protected]

SOURCE AIC
MIAMI, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Appetite Media is excited to announce the listing of its flagship brand, Appetites.com, for sale. For nearly a decade, Appetites.com has been the cornerstone of Appetite Media's constellation of brands, playing a pivotal role in shaping the company's identity. As the company shifts focus towards AI-driven platforms, immersive virtual experiences, and a new joint venture with MediaPublishing.comthe opportunity to acquire Appetites.com represents a unique chance for potential buyers to secure a highly valuable, versatile, and brandable single-word domain.

"Appetites.com is more than just a domain; it's a brand that resonates with everyone. Its universal appeal reflects our collective desire to explore and indulge in our passions," said Courtney Weston, founder of Appetite Media. "As we turn the page, we are excited to see what the future holds for Appetites.com under new stewardship. We look forward to witnessing the innovative ideas, creativity, and fresh perspectives that will shape its next chapter."

eNaming LLC is the exclusive broker for Appetites.com. eNaming LLC, founded by Ms. Tracy Fogarty, brings over 25 years of experience in the brokerage industry with a dedicated team of professionals committed to delivering exceptional results for their clients. With a focus on domain name sales, lease agreements, domain financing, Stealth Domain Name Acquisitions (SDNA), and joint ventures, eNaming LLC is well-equipped to facilitate the sale of Appetites.com with precision and expertise.

Prospective buyers interested in acquiring Appetites.com are encouraged to visit eNaming.com for more information and to explore this exciting opportunity.

Contact:

Appetite Media Holdings LLC

[email protected]

305-507-7666

Photo(s):

https://www.prlog.org/13032284

Press release distributed by PRLog

SOURCE Appetite Media Holdings LLC
Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan's support fuels growth in patient visits, dramatic reduction of avoidable emergency room visits

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- One year after Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan's $1 million grant helped open the doors to the El Cajon Urgent and Cardiac Care Center in San Diego County, more than 24,000 new patients  adults and children  have sought help for a wide range of illnesses and health conditions. Among these are chest pains, heart palpitations, atrial fibrillation, vascular and heart disease, hypertensive crisis, infections of all kinds, and COVID-19.

Since the Center opened in July 2023, the growth rate of patients has been "mind blowing," according to Fran Butler-Cohen, CEO of Family Health Centers of San Diego (FHCSD), which operates the El Cajon Center and is the county's largest health center system serving the region's low-income residents.

"Word-of-mouth about the urgent and cardiac care services available here has created explosive growth," Butler-Cohen said.

Kristen Cerf, CEO and president of Blue Shield Promise, said the nonprofit health plan had two goals in mind in providing support in El Cajon.

"The first was to improve access to urgent medical care and cardiology services for patients in San Diego's underserved East County area," she said. "The second was to reduce avoidable emergency room visits and hospital readmissions within 30 days of patients being discharged. We're pleased to see our support is making a meaningful difference in improved access to care for people living in the region."

According to Butler-Cohen, the El Cajon Center already has surpassed two year's worth of goals in its first year  both in the number of patients served and reducing unnecessary trips to an emergency room.

"Our data not only shows 24,000 new patients within our first year; it also demonstrates that this Center has reduced avoidable hospital emergency room visits by more than 6,300 patients, which means those patients are receiving community-based care while we reduce healthcare costs," Butler-Cohen said. "Simply put, Blue Shield Promise's $1 million investment breaks down to costing about $41 a visit for each of our patients a very inexpensive way to keep patients out of an emergency room."

Patients who have used the Center come from diverse backgrounds and communities in San Diego:

They are ethnically diverse  Latino, White, Black, Asian, and American Indian.

More women use both the urgent and cardiac care services than men.

The majority of patients seeking cardiac care are between 30 to 69 years old, with those who are 40 to 69 years old comprising the largest group.

For urgent medical care, children from newborns through 17 years old and young adults ages 18-29 are the largest groups.

Harris Niazi, MD, assistant medical director, Urgent Care, and one of the physicians at the El Cajon Urgent Care Clinic, said he has come full circle. "I came to America as a child refugee from Afghanistan. Now, as a doctor here in El Cajon, I've had the rewarding opportunity to assist newly arrived Afghan refugees with their acute needs and connect them to our primary care system," he said. "Reflecting on my own childhood experiences and seeing my parents struggle with long waits and unnecessary emergency room visits due to limited access and lack of follow-up care, it's fulfilling for me to see these patients receive coordinated and timely care at this new facility."

Blue Shield Promise's initial $1 million grant has enabled FHCSD to purchase important state of the art medical equipment for imaging and mammography, provide much-needed services to local residents and reduced months of waiting time for patients who need those services.

As Blue Shield Promise and FHCSD look toward their second year in serving the El Cajon community, they expect the positive growth and improved health outcomes to continue.

"We are known and trusted healthcare organizations who support healthy families and communities," Butler-Cohen said. "People see our names on this building, know we will take care of them, and they pull right into our parking lot."

About Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan

Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan is a managed care organization, wholly owned by Blue Shield of California, offering Medi-Cal. It is led by healthcare professionals with a "members-first" philosophy and committed to building a quality network of providers and partnering with community organizations for more than 580,000 members across Los Angeles and San Diego counties. For more information about Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan, please visit www.blueshieldca.com/promise. For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

About Family Health Centers of San Diego

Family Health Centers of San Diego (FHCSD) provides caring, affordable, high-quality health care and supportive services to everyone, with a special commitment to uninsured, low-income, and medically underserved persons. It is one of the nation's ten largest FQHCs, operating 90 sites across San Diego County. For more information about FHCSD, please visit https://www.fhcsd.org.

Contact: Kim Kellogg

Blue Shield of California

510-607-2359

[email protected]

SOURCE Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan
New funding to invest in product development, talent acquisition, and global expansion, advancing supply chain sustainability

TAIPEI, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BBTruck, a global leader in supply chain and logistics technology, announces the successful closure of its pre-series A funding round. Spearheaded by Oasis Venture, H2U Corp., and StarWorks Entrepreneurial Venture Capital, this round has brought BBTruck's total funding to $6.5 million.

BBTruck Extends Pre-series A Funding to Over $6 Million to Drive Global Expansion

This new capital infusion will accelerate BBTruck's global market expansion, particularly in North America and Southeast Asia, and bolster product development and talent acquisition initiatives. BBTruck aims to revolutionize supply chain logistics with its cutting-edge technology, aspiring to create a comprehensive global logistics technology ecosystem.

"From day one, BBTruck envisions a global logistics technology ecosystem that ensures flexibility and efficiency. We are excited to have the support of such esteemed investors as we embark on this next phase of growth," said Steven Chou, CEO and co-founder of BBTruck. "This funding will enable us to enhance our technology offerings and expand our presence in key markets, allowing us to better serve our clients and fully transform the logistics industry."

Building a Global Logistics Technology Ecosystem

Founded in 2019, BBTruck addresses the fragmentation and integration challenges inherent in traditional logistics. The company offers a one-stop B2B supply chain logistics platform that enables precise capacity calculation and allocation. BBTruck's platform aims to make logistics management more transparent and efficient. To date, BBTruck has served over 50 international enterprises across diverse industries, including top server providers, renowned Japanese automation and electronics manufacturers, global tire industry giant, major Japanese international logistics brand, and Taiwan's top home delivery service.

The pre-series A funding will enable BBTruck to focus on three key areas  accelerating expansion into North America and Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia; enhancing technical capabilities in capacity data analysis and integration; and recruiting top talent to grow its team. The company aims to build a transparent and shared global logistics ecosystem that provides enterprises greater flexibility in managing their supply chain logistics.

Innovative Solutions for Enhanced Logistics Efficiency and Flexibility

Taiwan's logistics sector suffers from inefficiencies due to reliance on manual processes and phone orders, leading to frequent empty return trips. BBTruck bridges this gap with its transparent logistics management platform, which integrates crucial data on truck sizes, devices, real-time orders, capacity, and addresses. By leveraging big data analysis, BBTruck's platform automatically allocates the most suitable transport fleet, maximizing logistics resource efficiency, cutting empty truck rates by nearly 75% and improving order placement and cargo tracking efficiency by over 40%, resulting in significant cost savings for customers.

Additionally, BBTruck offers a real-time cloud data center that lets enterprises monitor capacity data, track shipments, and view routes via an intuitive user interface. The platform's API integration facilitates seamless data exchange across multiple carriers and freight companies, streamlining orders placement, shipments tracking, and document retrieval from a single interface. This integration significantly reduces manpower costs and enhances the overall logistics experience.

Championing Sustainable Logistics

In line with the global goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, BBTruck is dedicated to promoting sustainable logistics. Acknowledging the environmental impact of logistics and capacity waste, BBTruck employs innovative technology to drive efficiency and sustainability. Certified under Taiwan's ISO 14067 standard for product carbon footprint, the BBTruck platform utilizes big data to optimize transport efficiency and reduce carbon footprints, assisting enterprises in achieving carbon-neutral logistics and fostering sustainable supply chain development."

BBTruck is also advancing its logistics data carbon auditing, allowing enterprises using its solution to access carbon emission data for external logistics providers under Scope 3 of the GHG Protocol. This facilitates their transition to greener practices and offers a competitive advantage in sustainable supply chains. Looking ahead, BBTruck will continue to harness innovative technology to enhance transportation efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainability in logistics, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

About BBTruck

Founded in 2019, BBTruck is a pioneering one-stop platform for supply chain and logistics technology. Our mission is to build a transparent, shared global logistics ecosystem that simplifies supply chain management. As a leader in logistics technology, BBTruck uses cutting-edge solutions for precise capacity calculation and allocation, ensuring efficient, flexible, and sustainable logistics. Since launch, BBTruck has served over 50 top-tier enterprises in technology, healthcare, international logistics, and retail. BBTruck is also the first to achieve carbon-neutral transportation, driving the green logistics revolution and advancing toward a zero-carbon future.

For more information, visit BBTruck's official website: https://bbtruck.cc/index_en.html

SOURCE BBTruck
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Belwood Investments is thrilled to announce it is under contract to acquire the distinguished property located at 24844 Malibu Road, Malibu, CA. Originally constructed for art collector and financier Richard Sachs, this architectural masterpiece was designed by legendary Japanese architect Tadao Ando and completed in 2013. The property was sold in 2021 for $57 million. Due to unfinished renovations and subsequent damage, it was recently listed at a reduced price of $39 million. Following aggressive negotiations with The Oppenheim Group, Belwood Investments' CEO, Bo Belmont, secured the property for under $22 Million.

24844 Malibu Road, Malibu, CA CEO of Belwood, Bo Belmont

"We are incredibly excited about the acquisition of this property," says Belmont. "This is not just a phenomenal real estate investment; it is an opportunity to revitalize and preserve an architectural gem by the renowned Tadao Ando, ensuring it remains a jewel of Malibu. This acquisition exemplifies Belwood Investments' commitment to transforming properties with historical and architectural significance while delivering exceptional returns for our investors."

Belwood Investments plans to invest approximately $5 million in renovations to restore the property to its original state. Restoration will honor the unique materials and innovative design elements specified by Ando, many of which were imported from around the world. The renovation process is anticipated to take 12-16 months.

About Tadao Ando

Born in Osaka, Japan, Tadao Ando is a self-taught architect celebrated for his minimalist and innovative designs that are distinguished by the use of concrete, light, and space to create serene and contemplative environments.

Ando's work is characterized by simplicity and clarity, emphasizing the beauty of raw concrete and natural light. He often integrates elements of nature into his buildings, creating a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural world. Notable works include the Church of the Light in Osaka, the Naoshima Contemporary Art Museum in Japan, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation in St. Louis, Missouri and Jay-Z and Beyonce's Malibu estate. Among his numerous accolades are the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize (1995) and the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal (2002).

About the House

The property at 24844 Malibu Road is an architectural marvel constructed with over 1,200 tons of concrete and 200 tons of reinforced steel. It is built atop the sand, supported by 12 massive caissons driven 60 feet into the bedrock. The home spans just over 4,000 square feet, featuring 4 bedrooms and 5 baths. It blends modern minimalism with luxurious details, characterized by clean lines, open spaces, and an abundance of natural light.

The property offers breathtaking ocean views and seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living. High-end materials and finishes are evident throughout, with spacious living areas, a gourmet kitchen, and elegant bedrooms. Expansive glass walls provide panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, creating a serene and sophisticated ambiance.

Richard Sachs, the original owner, aptly described it: "This is not just a house; this is like a Picasso, a cubist painting, very important and very rare."

Revolutionizing Property Investment for All

Belwood Investments is a real estate investment company that democratizes property investment by allowing non-accredited individual investors to participate with as little as $1,000 through the Belwood mobile app. Investor funds are secured through a deed of trust, ensuring a transparent and secure investment process. Upon completion of renovations and the subsequent sale of properties, Belwood shares the profits with its investors, consistently delivering high returns in short periods.

Bo Belmont, who has nearly 20 years of experience in flipping homes, founded Belwood Investments in 2018 to make real estate investment accessible to the masses. Bo Belmont and Belwood have been involved in more than 1,000 property transactions, generating substantial returns for its investors. Initially based in Folsom, CA, Belwood has expanded its operations to Southern California, with a recent relocation to Newport Beach, CA, at 2429 West Coast Highway, Suite 208, Newport Beach, CA 92663.

With its expansion into the luxury real estate market, Belwood has acquired several high-end properties in Beverly Hills and the Hollywood Hills. These properties are nearing the end of their renovation processes and are expected to hit the market during the summer of 2024. These luxury acquisitions enable Belwood to attract a larger pool of investors and deliver even greater returns.

The acquisition of 24844 Malibu Road represents a landmark achievement for Belwood Investments, being the most costly and prestigious property in the company's portfolio to date. The property's rich history and the involvement of world-renowned architect Tadao Ando ensure it will attract substantial attention and interest.

For more information about Belwood Investments, please visit www.belwoodinvestments.com.

Media Contact:

David Contreras

833 826 8366

[email protected]

SOURCE Belwood Investments
Flavor Celebrates New Election Energy, Continued Partnership with Black Voters Matter Capacity Building Institute

BURLINGTON, Vt., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- There is no denying the energy surrounding the upcoming presidential election suddenly jumped off the charts which is why Ben & Jerry's is doing what it does best: launching a new ice cream. No, it's not a coconut flavor, but it does celebrate childless cat ladies everywhere. and it's called: Churn Out the Vote. The Limited Batch flavor is packed with pretzel swirls, fudge chips, and ripples of chocolate mousse in a creamy vanilla ice cream and is proudly presented in partnership with the company's longtime friends at Black Voters Matter Capacity Building Institute (BVM). Inspired by the delicious optimism surrounding this election, Churn Out the Vote is part of a larger campaign to celebrate and activate young voters, especially young voters of color, to participate in this historically important election and join the growing movement to protect democracy and be a voter.

Important issues that impact all Americans like abortion, climate change, gun violence, and freedom and democracy are all on the ballot, and its evident young voters and voters of color will decide the outcome of this election. Thats why its so important that this new energy is turned into action and that every eligible citizen turns into a voter.

Ben & Jerry's partnership with BVM, now in its fourth year, is part of an expansive effort to engage voters on the issues they care about most. In addition to the Vermont dessert maker's national "Churn Out the Vote" campaign, Ben & Jerry's will join BVM on the ground in Georgia supporting their non-partisan work to engage voters in every corner of the state. Black Voters Matter will bring the strategy and the energy, and Ben & Jerry's will "churn out the vote" by bringing the ice cream. In addition to Scoop Shops, the flavor will soon be available as a limited pint in freezers across the country at an MSRP of $5.99-6.49.

"We couldn't be more pleased to once again join Black Voters Matter in support of their work to ensure that those who will be most impacted by the policies of the next administration vote and that their vote is counted," said Palika Makam, Ben & Jerry's U.S. Activism Manager. "When young people and people of color are voters, we all win."

"Black and Brown young voters of color are not low propensity, they are high opportunity," said Cliff Albright, Executive Director of Black Voters Matter. "Our community fought long and hard for the freedom to vote in this country and they won. Now, nearly sixty years after the passage of the Civil Rights Act, racist politicians are rolling back our freedom to vote and countless other freedoms - like the freedom to learn and the freedom to be safe from gun violence. This generation can fight back by refusing to give into cynicism and despair and making their voices heard at the polls. Their votes have the power to change history and our communities."

From now through Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 5, Ben & Jerry's website will be a one stop shop to help fans all become voters. At benjerry.com, people can check their voter registration status, and find information on their polling locations, early voting, and vote by mail options. They can also stop into a Scoop Shop to taste Churn Out the Vote and have a portion of proceeds donated to Black Voters Matter.

Because when young voters and voters of color Churn Out the Vote, everyone wins.

About Ben & Jerry's

Ben & Jerry's is an aspiring social justice company that believes in a greater calling than simply making and selling the world's best ice cream. The company produces a wide variety of super-premium ice cream and Non-Dairy/vegan desserts using high-quality ingredients and lots of big chunks and swirls. As a Certified B Corp, Ben & Jerry's incorporates its vision of Linked Prosperity into its business practices via values-led sourcing initiatives when purchasing ingredients. Ben & Jerry's is distributed in over 35 countries in supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, franchised Scoop Shops, and via on-demand delivery services. Ben & Jerry's, a Vermont corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of Unilever, operates its business on a three-part Mission Statement emphasizing product quality, a fair financial return, and addressing issues of social, racial, and environmental injustice around the globe. The Ben & Jerry's Foundation, guided by Ben & Jerry's employees, granted $5.1 MM in 2023 to support progressive, justice-focused grassroots organizing around the country. For up-to-date information visit benjerry.com .

SOURCE Ben & Jerry's
ASOTIN  Longtime state Rep. Joe Schmick, a Colfax Republican, secured 66% of the votes here Tuesday in his bid to return to Olympia to represent southeastern Washington for the 9th Legislative District.

Schmick, who has served in the state House of Representatives since 2007, was up against Democrats Pam Kohlmeier, a physician and attorney, and Arianna Arends, a former educator and pastor, both of Spokane. Kohlmeier drew 28% of the vote, and Arends received 6%.

Based on the early primary election results, Schmick and Kohlmeier will move forward to the Nov. 5 general election ballot.

I want to thank everyone who participated in the primary election and for the voter support, Schmick told the Tribune. I still have some work to do. I would say that community safety, the economy and the overreach of the government are the topics I hear about the most when I talk to people.

The Asotin County auditors office has counted 4,387 votes to date, which amounts to a 30% turnout. More ballots will be counted this week, including those that were postmarked Tuesday and arrive in todays mail.

In Garfield County, Schmick tallied 85% of the votes, Kohlmeier drew 10%, and Arends received 4%. Voter turnout in Garfield County was at 40% as of Tuesday night.
NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Castlerock Green Energy LLC (CGE), a development company focused on building renewable fuel production plants across the United States that replace traditional fossil fuel oils, is pleased to announce the receipt of an investment of approximately $9 million by Nexus Development Capital, LLC (NDC) into Castlerock Biofuels LLC (Castlerock Biofuels), a joint venture company led by CGE and Ensyn Corporation (Ensyn). This investment marks a substantial step forward in the development of renewable fuel production facilities in the United States.

Project Overview:

Castlerock Biofuels is dedicated to developing renewable fuel oil production facilities, with its flagship project located in the Katahdin region of Maine. This project will produce 20 million gallons of renewable fuel oil (RFO biofuel) annually, utilizing Ensyn's proprietary RTP technology. Upon completion, it will be the largest facility in the United States to produce renewable fuel oil through the pyrolysis of woody biomass.

The primary applications for RFO biofuel include its use as a renewable heating fuel to replace traditional fossil-based heating oil and as a feedstock for co-processing in traditional refineries to produce renewable transportation fuels. Notably, RFO biofuel has been proven to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% when compared to traditional fossil fuels. The flagship project in Maine supports colleges and universities, district energy plants, and industrial facilities in economically achieving their sustainability goals.

Partnership:

The investment by NDC follows a previous investment by a valued partner of CGE, the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake (HPUL). HPUL is a federally recognized Tribe located in Upper Lake, California, an area of the state that has been ravaged by wildfires over the past several years. In response, the Tribe has made significant contributions in the areas of conservation and combatting climate change through various endeavors, including developing a comprehensive plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions both within their Tribal lands and beyond.

The Tribe's strategic partnership with CGE not only benefits the Tribe and its membership by meeting its economic development objectives, but it also holds substantial potential for significant contributions to the growth of the local communities, spanning various sectors.

Quotes:

John Murphy, Managing Director of Castlerock Biofuels, commented, "The investment from NDC is a significant milestone for our company. It not only supports the development of our flagship project in Maine but also paves the way for future projects that will contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. And we are deeply committed to furthering the commercial and environmental efforts of the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake."

Danielle Cirelli, Chairwoman of Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake: "These projects not only align with Habematolel's cultural values, but also contribute to the global efforts to combat climate change, promising a greener future for generations to come. Our Tribe is excited to be partnering with Castlerock Green Energy, and we welcome NDC to this initiative in support of our goals to advance greater energy security and stability. Our Tribe historically has had limited access to economic development opportunities due to its geographical limitations. Our partnership with Castlerock holds tremendous promise for both our Tribe's economic development enterprises and our commitment to the proper stewardship of our lands and natural resources."

Paul Tanico, Co-founder of Castlerock Green Energy: "I feel incredibly fortunate to be involved with the Ensyn Board of Directors and to have the privilege of having John and his team build a fantastic company."

About Castlerock Green Energy LLC: Castlerock Green Energy stands at the forefront of renewable energy and infrastructure innovation. The company aims to construct renewable fuel production plants across the United States that replace traditional fossil fuel oils and play a vital role in supporting the communities where they exist.

About Castlerock Biofuels LLC: Castlerock Biofuels is dedicated to developing renewable fuel oil production facilities in the United States. By leveraging advanced technology and strategic partnerships, Castlerock Biofuels aims to lead the transition towards sustainable energy solutions.

About Nexus Development Capital, LLC: NDC is an investment partner dedicated to providing capital and expertise to teams developing sustainable infrastructure projects in the alternative fuels, sustainable agriculture, and industrial decarbonization sectors. Nexus Development Capital is supported by Nexus PMG. Nexus PMG delivers worldclass services to investors and developers on projects that reduce carbon intensity and enhance resource efficiency. Integrated business lines provide end-to-end services within each targeted sector including development, preliminary engineering, contract structuring, commissioning and startup, operational readiness, and process improvement.

About Ensyn Corporation: Ensyn is a leader in the production of renewable fuels and chemicals from wood and other non-food biomass. Using their proprietary RTP technology, Ensyn converts cellulosic biomass into a renewable liquid fuel used for heating, the production of sustainable transportation fuels, and the production of renewable chemicals. Ensyn has been operating commercial production facilities since 1989.

For more information, please visit:

Castlerock Green Energy LLC: www.castlerockgreenenergy.com

Ensyn Corporation: www.ensyn.com

Nexus Development Capital, LLC: www.nexusdevcap.com

For any additional details or inquiries, please reach out to: [email protected]

[email protected]

SOURCE Castlerock Green Energy
Toxicology Experts Warn of Possible Overdose Situations

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tiffany Day and her travel buddy Luna, a labrador retriever mix, had just arrived from their long drive from Illinois to New Mexico. Day realized she needed a few items from the store, so she left Luna and her open travel bag in the downstairs bathroom and headed out the door. Little did she know an accessible bottle of allergy medication would lead to a call to Pet Poison Helpline.

"You don't think they'll get into it, but they will." Post this After a long day on the road, Luna went digging through her owner's travel bag for a snack. Instead of a treat, she found a trip to the emergency veterinary hospital,

"It was a horrible day," Day explained. "I'm a travel nurse, and Luna and I had just gotten home from an assignment in Illinois, and I was exhausted from the drive. I thought, 'she's tired, she won't get into anything' and I ran out for a quick trip to the store. When I got home, there was a chewed-open bottle of allergy pills on the floor, and it was clear Luna had ingested some of the mediation. I'd never heard there was a problem with giving your pets allergy pills like Benadryl, so I wasn't too worried. As the night progressed, however, she began barking at nothing, swaying, and walking into walls. It was then I knew she needed a veterinarian."

Antihistamines provide relief to millions of allergy sufferers, but medications that contain diphenhydramine, like Benadryl, can be dangerous and even deadly to pets if the dose is too high. Whether the ingestion is accidental or intentional, the toxicology experts at Pet Poison Helpline recommend consulting your veterinarian before giving your pet any human medication, or immediately after if your pet accidentally ingests something potentially toxic.

"Many people give their pets human allergy medications that contain diphenhydramine," said Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist and director of Veterinary Services at Pet Poison Helpline. "In most cases, a small dose is safe for your pets. If the dose is too high, however, it can result in some very dangerous reactions, including agitation or lethargy, aggression, abnormal heart rate, abnormal blood pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures and respiratory depression with extremely large ingestions. In severe cases, such as with Luna's situation, the ingestion could be fatal."

Day took Luna to the Roadrunner Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital in Algodones, New Mexico, about 30 minutes outside Albuquerque. Once there, the hospital team had Day call the toxicology experts at Pet Poison Helpline so they could develop a treatment plan based on Luna's situation and exposure.

"They are amazing people," Day said. "Both the hospital and Pet Poison Helpline teams worked together in the middle of the night to save Luna. They took her back right away and treated her with medical grade activated charcoal, but it had been too long since the exposure to fully prevent signs, so they provided her with additional procedures."

Luna had already started to develop mild signs by the time she reached the veterinary hospital. She was administered an antiemetic to keep her from vomiting, was placed on intravenous fluids and was sedated for her agitation. The hospital was advised to give additional medications for tremors and seizures if they developed. The doctors and nursing staff at Roadrunner monitored Luna closely overnight to ensure she did not develop more severe signs. With their exceptional overnight care, Luna was able to go home the following day as she continued to recuperate.

Luna was successfully treated for her diphenhydramine exposure, but soon after developed a known but likely unrelated condition called immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, or IMTP, which unfortunately ultimately led to her passing.

"IMTP is a condition where the pet's immune system attacks its own platelets, leading to their premature destruction," Dr. Schmid explained. "It is the most common hemostatic disorder in dogs, and can be either primary and idiopathic, or a secondary condition resulting from an infectious, parasitic or immune-mediated disease. In Luna's case, the medical team could not determine the cause." Common signs for IMPT include weakness, lethargy, and bleeding for unknown causes.

Pet Poison Helpline created Toxin Tails to educate the veterinary community and pet lovers on the many types of poisoning dangers facing pets, both in and out of the home. All the pets highlighted in Toxin Tails have been successfully treated for the poisoning and fully recovered. In Luna's case, she passed later from a separate disorder, but Day still wanted to tell her story.

"Even though Luna later passed from a different condition, I wanted to share her allergy medication story," explained Day. "If telling her story can help even one other pet, it will be worth it. You have to be on your game at all times. Keep all medications, even those you think are safe for your pets, away from reach. You don't think they'll get into it, but they will."

About Pet Poison Helpline

Pet Poison Helpline, your trusted source for toxicology and pet health advice in times of potential emergency, is available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Per incident and subscription service options are available. We are an independent, nationally recognized animal poison control center triple licensed by the Boards of Veterinary Medicine, Medicine and Pharmacy providing unmatched professional leadership and expertise. Our veterinarians and board-certified toxicologists provide treatment advice for all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline's fee of $85 per incident includes follow-up consultations for the duration of the case. The company also offers pethelpline(SM) and pethelplinePRO(SM) subscription services directly to pet lovers. Based in Minneapolis, Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

Contact: Curtis Steinhoff

Pet Poison Helpline

(602) 300-8466

[email protected]

SOURCE Pet Poison Helpline
PANAMA CITY, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Copa Holdings, S.A. (NYSE: CPA), today announced financial results for the second quarter of 2024 (2Q24). The terms "Copa Holdings" and the "Company" refer to the consolidated entity. The following financial information, unless otherwise indicated, is presented in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). See the accompanying reconciliation of non-IFRS financial information to IFRS financial information included in the financial tables section of this earnings release. Unless otherwise stated, all comparisons with prior periods refer to the second quarter of 2023 (2Q23).

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Copa Holdings reported a net profit of US$120.3 million for 2Q24 or US$2.88 per share. The Company reported an operating profit of US$159.5 million and an operating margin of 19.5%.

for 2Q24 or per share. The Company reported an operating profit of and an operating margin of 19.5%. Passenger traffic for 2Q24, measured in terms of revenue passenger miles (RPMs), increased by 10.6% compared to 2Q23 while capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASMs), increased by 9.7%. As a result, the load factor for the quarter increased by 0.7 percentage points to 86.8% compared to 2Q23.

Operating cost per available seat mile excluding fuel (Ex-fuel CASM) decreased by 5.8% in the quarter to 5.6 cents when compared to 2Q23, mainly driven by lower maintenance, materials and repair costs as well as lower sales and distribution costs.

when compared to 2Q23, mainly driven by lower maintenance, materials and repair costs as well as lower sales and distribution costs. Revenue per available seat mile (RASM) decreased by 7.7% to 11.0 cents compared to 2Q23, driven by an 8.7% decrease in passenger yields. Total revenues for 2Q24 increased by 1.3% to US$819.4 million .

compared to 2Q23, driven by an 8.7% decrease in passenger yields. Total revenues for 2Q24 increased by 1.3% to . The Company ended the quarter with approximately US$1.2 billion in cash, short-term and long-term investments, which represent 35% of the last twelve months' revenues.

in cash, short-term and long-term investments, which represent 35% of the last twelve months' revenues. The Company closed the quarter with total debt, including lease liabilities, of US$1.8 billion , while our Adjusted Net Debt to EBITDA ratio ended at 0.6 times.

, while our Adjusted Net Debt to EBITDA ratio ended at 0.6 times. During the quarter, the Company took delivery of three Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, ending the quarter with a consolidated fleet of 109 aircraft  67 Boeing 737-800s, 32 Boeing 737 MAX 9s, 9 Boeing 737-700s, and 1 Boeing 737-800 freighter.

Copa Airlines had an on-time performance for the quarter of 87.6% and a flight completion factor of 99.7%, once again positioning itself among the very best in the industry.

Subsequent Events

In July, Copa Airlines was recognized by Skytrax  for the ninth consecutive year  as the "Best Airline in Central America and the Caribbean ."

and the ." In July, the Company took delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX 8, increasing its total fleet to 110 aircraft.

On July 29 , the Government of Venezuela temporarily suspended commercial flights between Venezuela and Panama effective July 31 st , forcing the Company to suspend its flights between the two countries. As of the date hereof, the official notice mandates the suspension of flights until August 31 st .

, the Government of temporarily suspended commercial flights between and effective , forcing the Company to suspend its flights between the two countries. As of the date hereof, the official notice mandates the suspension of flights until . Copa Holdings will make its third dividend payment of the year of US$1.61 per share on September 13, 2024 , to all Class A and Class B shareholders on record as of August 30, 2024 .

Consolidated Financial

& Operating Highlights 2Q24 2Q23 Variance Vs

2Q23 1Q24 Variance Vs

1Q24 YTD24 YTD23 Variance Vs

YTD23 Revenue Passengers Carried (000s) 3,303 2,980 10.8 % 3,272 0.9 % 6,575 5,860 12.2 % Revenue Passengers OnBoard (000s) 4,970 4,469 11.2 % 4,790 3.7 % 9,760 8,764 11.4 % RPMs (millions) 6,446 5,826 10.6 % 6,127 5.2 % 12,573 11,550 8.9 % ASMs (millions) 7,424 6,767 9.7 % 7,121 4.2 % 14,545 13,363 8.8 % Load Factor 86.8 % 86.1 % 0.7 p.p 86.0 % 0.8 p.p 86.4 % 86.4 % 0.0 p.p Yield (US$ Cents) 12.1 13.3 (8.7) % 14.0 (13.5) % 13.0 13.9 (6.3) % PRASM (US$ Cents) 10.5 11.4 (7.9) % 12.1 (12.7) % 11.3 12.0 (6.3) % RASM (US$ Cents) 11.0 12.0 (7.7) % 12.5 (12.0) % 11.8 12.5 (6.1) % CASM (US$ Cents) 8.9 9.1 (2.1) % 9.5 (6.6) % 9.2 9.6 (4.6) % CASM Excl. Fuel (US$ Cents) 5.6 5.9 (5.8) % 6.1 (8.1) % 5.8 6.1 (3.9) % Fuel Gallons Consumed (millions) 87.6 79.9 9.6 % 84.4 3.7 % 172.0 158.1 8.8 % Avg. Price Per Fuel Gallon (US$) 2.79 2.65 5.2 % 2.90 (3.7) % 2.84 3.00 (5.4) % Average Length of Haul (miles) 1,952 1,955 (0.2) % 1,873 4.2 % 1,912 1,971 (3.0) % Average Stage Length (miles) 1,253 1,260 (0.5) % 1,246 0.6 % 1,249 1,270 (1.6) % Departures 36,313 33,385 8.8 % 35,220 3.1 % 71,533 65,369 9.4 % Block Hours 116,062 107,055 8.4 % 112,164 3.5 % 228,226 211,681 7.8 % Average Aircraft Utilization (hours) 11.9 11.8 0.3 % 11.6 2.0 % 11.7 11.9 (0.9) % Operating Revenues (US$ millions) 819.4 809.2 1.3 % 893.5 (8.3) % 1,712.9 1,676.5 2.2 % Operating Profit (Loss) (US$ millions) 159.5 194.7 (18.1) % 216.0 (26.1) % 375.5 387.9 (3.2) % Operating Margin 19.5 % 24.1 % -4.6 p.p 24.2 % -4.7 p.p 21.9 % 23.1 % -1.2 p.p Net Profit (Loss) (US$ millions) 120.3 17.5 586.8 % 176.1 (31.7) % 296.3 139.0 113.1 % Adjusted Net Profit (Loss) (US$ millions) (1) 120.3 154.5 (22.2) % 176.1 (31.7) % 296.3 312.3 (5.1) % Basic EPS (US$) 2.88 0.44 549.4 % 4.19 (31.1) % 7.07 3.52 101.0 % Adjusted Basic EPS (US$) (1) 2.88 3.92 (26.4) % 4.19 (31.1) % 7.07 7.90 (10.5) % Shares for calculation of Basic EPS (000s) 41,715 39,444 5.8 % 42,052 (0.8) % 41,883 39,504 6.0 %

(1) Excludes Special Items. This earnings release includes a reconciliation of non-IFRS financial measures to the comparable IFRS measures.

FULL 2Q24 EARNINGS RELEASE AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD AT:

https://copa.gcs-web.com/financial-information/quarterly-results

2Q24 EARNINGS RESULTS CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

Date: August 8, 2024



Time: 11:00 AM US ET (11:00 AM Local Time)



Join by phone: https://register.vevent.com/register/BIaa69ad95e8754597ac5a227df82cb25e



Webcast (listen-only): https://copa.gcs-web.com/events-and-presentations



Speakers: Pedro Heilbron, Chief Executive Officer





Jose Montero, Chief Financial Officer





About Copa Holdings

Copa Holdings is a leading Latin American provider of passenger and cargo services. The Company, through its operating subsidiaries, provides service to countries in North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean. For more information visit: www.copaair.com .

CONTACT: Copa Holdings S.A.

Investor Relations:

Ph: 011 507 304-2774

www.copaair.com (IR section)

This release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based on current plans, estimates, and expectations, and are not guarantees of future performance. They are based on management's expectations that involve several business risks and uncertainties, any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. The risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements in this release are among those disclosed in Copa Holdings' filed disclosure documents and are, therefore, subject to change without prior notice.

CPA-G

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated statement of profit or loss

(In US$ thousands)





Unaudited

Unaudited

% Unaudited

%

Unaudited

Unaudited %



2Q24

2Q23

Change 1Q24

Change

YTD24

YTD23 Change Operating Revenues



























Passenger revenue

781,497

773,781

1.0 % 858,725

(9.0 %)

1,640,222

1,607,798 2.0 % Cargo and mail revenue

25,184

23,888

5.4 % 21,910

14.9 %

47,095

47,140 (0.1 %) Other operating revenue

12,722

11,521

10.4 % 12,831

(0.9 %)

25,553

21,516 18.8 % Total Operating Revenue

819,403

809,190

1.3 % 893,467

(8.3 %)

1,712,870

1,676,454 2.2 %





























Operating Expenses



























Fuel

246,011

214,121

14.9 % 245,352

0.3 %

491,363

479,619 2.4 % Wages, salaries, benefits and other employees' expenses

114,878

105,788

8.6 % 114,314

0.5 %

229,193

208,441 10.0 % Passenger servicing

27,579

21,460

28.5 % 29,684

(7.1 %)

57,263

41,852 36.8 % Airport facilities and handling charges

62,768

54,146

15.9 % 60,347

4.0 %

123,115

104,625 17.7 % Sales and distribution

52,210

56,596

(7.8 %) 55,494

(5.9 %)

107,704

118,002 (8.7 %) Maintenance, materials and repairs

10,883

31,430

(65.4 %) 25,627

(57.5 %)

36,510

71,726 (49.1 %) Depreciation and amortization

79,462

74,818

6.2 % 83,365

(4.7 %)

162,827

147,494 10.4 % Flight operations

31,914

25,005

27.6 % 31,029

2.9 %

62,944

52,429 20.1 % Other operating and administrative expenses

34,190

31,158

9.7 % 32,270

6.0 %

66,461

64,387 3.2 % Total Operating Expense

659,896

614,523

7.4 % 677,482

(2.6 %)

1,337,378

1,288,576 3.8 %





























Operating Profit/(Loss)

159,507

194,667

(18.1 %) 215,985

(26.1 %)

375,492

387,878 (3.2 %)





























Non-operating Income (Expense):



























Finance cost

(20,632)

(30,517)

(32.4 %) (18,840)

9.5 %

(39,472)

(54,882) (28.1 %) Finance income

13,537

11,970

13.1 % 13,746

(1.5 %)

27,284

20,812 31.1 % Gain (loss) on foreign currency fluctuations

(16,097)

3,712

(533.6 %) (3,914)

311.3 %

(20,010)

4,914 (507.2 %) Net change in fair value of derivatives

2,533

(137,473)

(101.8 %) (8)

 %

2,525

(175,406) (101.4 %) Other non-operating income (expense)

1,766

925

90.9 % (112)

(1679.9 %)

1,654

2,160 (23.4 %) Total Non-Operating Income/(Expense)

(18,892)

(151,382)

(87.5 %) (9,127)

107.0 %

(28,019)

(202,402) (86.2 %)





























Profit before taxes

140,615

43,284

224.9 % 206,858

(32.0 %)

347,472

185,476 87.3 %





























Income tax expense

(20,362)

(25,775)

(21.0 %) (30,792)

(33.9 %)

(51,154)

(46,447) 10.1 %





























Net Profit/(Loss)

120,253

17,509

586.8 % 176,066

(31.7 %)

296,318

139,030 113.1 %

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated statement of financial position

(In US$ thousands)





June 2024

December 2023 ASSETS

(Unaudited)

(Audited) Cash and cash equivalents

200,635

206,375 Short-term investments

748,239

708,809 Total cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments

948,874

915,184 Accounts receivable, net

186,902

156,720 Accounts receivable from related parties

2,637

2,527 Expendable parts and supplies, net

116,578

116,604 Prepaid expenses

44,134

44,635 Prepaid income tax

98

66 Other current assets

21,375

32,227



371,723

352,780 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS

1,320,598

1,267,963 Long-term investments

258,379

258,934 Long-term prepaid expenses

7,766

9,633 Property and equipment, net

3,326,243

3,238,632 Right of use assets

341,009

281,146 Intangible, net

92,715

87,986 Net defined benefit assets

6,204

5,346 Deferred tax assets

21,497

30,148 Other Non-Current Assets

16,821

17,048 TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS

4,070,634

3,928,872 TOTAL ASSETS

5,391,232

5,196,836 LIABILITIES







Loans and borrowings

226,513

222,430 Current portion of lease liability

59,743

68,304 Accounts payable

193,427

182,303 Accounts payable to related parties

3,913

1,228 Air traffic liability

640,643

611,856 Frequent flyer deferred revenue

127,024

124,815 Taxes Payable

53,642

44,210 Accrued expenses payable

41,417

64,940 Income tax payable

6,630

26,741 Other Current Liabilities

737

1,403 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES

1,353,688

1,348,229









Loans and borrowings long-term

1,241,684

1,240,261 Lease Liability

296,402

215,353 Deferred tax Liabilities

47,457

36,369 Other long - term liabilities

216,512

234,474 TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

1,802,054

1,726,457 TOTAL LIABILITIES

3,155,742

3,074,685 EQUITY







Class A - 34,185,954 issued and 30,654,620 outstanding

23,244

23,201 Class B - 10,938,125

7,466

7,466 Additional Paid-In Capital

211,260

209,102 Treasury Stock

(254,532)

(204,130) Retained Earnings

1,961,060

1,581,739 Net profit

296,318

514,098 Other comprehensive loss

(9,326)

(9,326) TOTAL EQUITY

2,235,490

2,122,150 TOTAL EQUITY LIABILITIES

5,391,232

5,196,836

Copa Holdings, S. A. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated statement of cash flows

For the six months ended

(In US$ thousands)



2024

2023

2022

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited) Cash flow from operating activities 470,777

420,171

327,833 Cash flow (used in) investing activities (258,696)

(293,193)

(262,743) Cash flow (used in) from financing activities (217,820)

32,461

(142,046) Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents (5,739)

159,439

(76,956) Cash and cash equivalents at January 1 206,375

122,424

211,081 Cash and cash equivalents at June 30 $ 200,636

$ 281,863

$ 134,125











Short-term investments 748,239

833,576

801,132 Long-term investments 258,379

222,282

140,374 Total cash and cash equivalents and investments at June 30 $ 1,207,254

$ 1,337,721

$ 1,075,631

Copa Holdings, S.A.

NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURE RECONCILIATION

This press release includes the following non-IFRS financial measures: Adjusted Net Profit, Adjusted Basic EPS, and Operating CASM Excluding Fuel. This supplemental information is presented because we believe it is a useful indicator of our operating performance and is useful in comparing our performance with other companies in the airline industry. These measures should not be considered in isolation and should be considered together with comparable IFRS measures, in particular operating profit, and net profit. The following is a reconciliation of these non-IFRS financial measures to the comparable IFRS measures:

Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Profit 2Q24

2Q23

1Q24











Net Profit as Reported $ 120,253

$ 17,509

$ 176,066 Net change in fair value of derivatives $ 

$ 137,473

$  Net change in fair value of financial investments $ 

$ (512)

$  Adjusted Net Profit $ 120,253

$ 154,469

$ 176,066











Reconciliation of Adjusted Basic EPS 2Q24

2Q23

1Q24











Adjusted Net Profit $ 120,253

$ 154,469

$ 176,066 Shares used for calculation of Basic EPS 41,715

39,444

42,052 Adjusted Basic Earnings per share (Adjusted Basic EPS) $ 2.88

$ 3.92

$ 4.19











Reconciliation of Operating Costs per ASM









Excluding Fuel (CASM Excl. Fuel) 2Q24

2Q23

1Q24











Operating Costs per ASM as Reported (in US$ Cents) 8.9

9.1

9.5 Aircraft Fuel Cost per ASM (in US$ Cents) 3.3

3.2

3.4 Operating Costs per ASM excluding fuel (in US$ Cents) 5.6

5.9

6.1

SOURCE Copa Holdings, S.A.
Financial Highlights

Second quarter total revenues increased to $91.2 billion , up 2.6% compared to the prior year

, up 2.6% compared to the prior year Second quarter GAAP diluted EPS of $1.41 and Adjusted EPS of $1.83

and Adjusted EPS of Generated year-to-date cash flow from operations of $8.0 billion

2024 Full-Year Guidance

Revised GAAP diluted EPS guidance to a range of $4.95 to $5.20 from at least $5.64

to from at least Revised Adjusted EPS guidance to a range of $6.40 to $6.65 from at least $7.00

to from at least Revised cash flow from operations guidance to approximately $9.0 billion from at least $10.5 billion

CEO Commentary

"We have many points of differentiation that position us to win now and into the future. Our innovation is accelerating more transparent pharmacy reimbursement models, increasing the use of biosimilars, and providing better patient outcomes through our connected health care delivery assets. Our integrated model and our strategy are enabling us to execute in a challenging environment and we are delivering the value our customers demand. We are taking action today to ensure we make the most of our many opportunities, including leadership changes in the Health Care Benefits segment." -Karen S. Lynch, CVS Health President and CEO

WOONSOCKET, R.I., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CVS Health Corporation (NYSE: CVS) today announced operating results for the three months ended June 30, 2024.

Financial Results Summary



Three Months Ended June 30, In millions, except per share amounts 2024

2023

Change Total revenues $ 91,234

$ 88,921

$ 2,313 Operating income 3,045

3,234

(189) Adjusted operating income (1) 3,744

4,481

(737) Diluted earnings per share $ 1.41

$ 1.48

$ (0.07) Adjusted EPS (2) $ 1.83

$ 2.21

$ (0.38)

CVS Health logo (PRNewsFoto/CVS Health)

Second quarter GAAP diluted EPS of $1.41 decreased from $1.48 in the prior year and Adjusted EPS of $1.83 decreased from $2.21 in the prior year, primarily due to a decline in the Health Care Benefits segment's operating results, which reflect continued utilization pressure and the unfavorable impact of the Company's Medicare Advantage star ratings for the 2024 payment year within the Medicare product line.

The Company revised its full-year 2024 GAAP diluted EPS, Adjusted EPS and cash flow from operations guidance to reflect continued pressure in the Health Care Benefits segment, partially offset by strong performance in the Health Services and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments.

The Company presents both GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures in this press release to assist in the comparison of the Company's past financial performance with its current financial performance. See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" beginning on page 11 and endnotes beginning on page 23 for explanations of non-GAAP financial measures presented in this press release. See pages 13 through 15 and page 22 for reconciliations of each non-GAAP financial measure used in this release to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.

Consolidated second quarter results



Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30, In millions, except per share amounts 2024

2023

Change

2024

2023

Change Total revenues $ 91,234

$ 88,921

$ 2,313

$ 179,671

$ 174,199

$ 5,472 Operating income 3,045

3,234

(189)

5,316

6,680

(1,364) Adjusted operating income (1) 3,744

4,481

(737)

6,701

8,851

(2,150) Net income 1,768

1,914

(146)

2,892

4,056

(1,164) Diluted earnings per share $ 1.41

$ 1.48

$ (0.07)

$ 2.28

$ 3.13

$ (0.85) Adjusted EPS (2) $ 1.83

$ 2.21

$ (0.38)

$ 3.14

$ 4.41

$ (1.27)

For the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year:

Total revenues increased 2.6% primarily driven by growth in the Health Care Benefits and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments, partially offset by a decline in the Health Services segment.

Operating income decreased 5.8% primarily due to the decrease in adjusted operating income described below, partially offset by the absence of a $496 million restructuring charge recorded in the prior year as well as a decrease in acquisition-related transaction and integration costs compared to the prior year.

restructuring charge recorded in the prior year as well as a decrease in acquisition-related transaction and integration costs compared to the prior year. Adjusted operating income decreased 16.4% primarily driven by declines in the Health Care Benefits and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments, partially offset by an increase in the Health Services segment. See pages 3 through 5 for additional discussion of the adjusted operating income performance of the Company's segments.

Interest expense increased $46 million , or 6.7%, due to higher debt in the three months ended June 30, 2024 , primarily driven by long-term debt issued in June of 2023 to fund the Company's acquisition of Oak Street Health, Inc. ("Oak Street Health"), as well as long-term debt issued in May of 2024.

, or 6.7%, due to higher debt in the three months ended , primarily driven by long-term debt issued in June of 2023 to fund the Company's acquisition of Oak Street Health, Inc. ("Oak Street Health"), as well as long-term debt issued in May of 2024. The effective income tax rate decreased to 24.3% compared to 25.5% primarily due to a state tax settlement during the three months ended June 30, 2024 .

Health Care Benefits segment

The Health Care Benefits segment offers a full range of insured and self-insured ("ASC") medical, pharmacy, dental and behavioral health products and services. The segment results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:



Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30, In millions, except percentages 2024

2023

Change

2024

2023

Change Total revenues $ 32,475

$ 26,747

$ 5,728

$ 64,711

$ 52,624

$ 12,087 Adjusted operating income (1) 938

1,541

(603)

1,670

3,365

(1,695) Medical benefit ratio ("MBR") (3) 89.6 %

86.2 %

3.4 %

90.0 %

85.4 %

4.6 % Medical membership (4)











27.0

25.6

1.4

Total revenues increased 21.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year driven by growth in the Medicare and Commercial product lines.

compared to the prior year driven by growth in the Medicare and Commercial product lines. Adjusted operating income decreased 39.1% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year primarily driven by increased utilization and the unfavorable impact of the previously disclosed decline in the Company's Medicare Advantage star ratings for the 2024 payment year within the Medicare product line, higher acuity in Medicaid primarily attributable to the resumption of redeterminations, as well as a change in estimate related to the individual exchange business risk adjustment accrual for the 2023 plan year recorded in the second quarter of 2024. These decreases were partially offset by a favorable year-over-year impact of prior period development and an increase in net investment income.

compared to the prior year primarily driven by increased utilization and the unfavorable impact of the previously disclosed decline in the Company's Medicare Advantage star ratings for the 2024 payment year within the Medicare product line, higher acuity in Medicaid primarily attributable to the resumption of redeterminations, as well as a change in estimate related to the individual exchange business risk adjustment accrual for the 2023 plan year recorded in the second quarter of 2024. These decreases were partially offset by a favorable year-over-year impact of prior period development and an increase in net investment income. The MBR increased to 89.6% in the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to 86.2% in the prior year driven by increased utilization and the unfavorable impact of the Company's Medicare Advantage star ratings for the 2024 payment year within the Medicare product line, as well as the higher acuity in Medicaid and the change in estimate related to the individual exchange business risk adjustment accrual described above. These increases were partially offset by the favorable year-over-year impact of prior period development.

compared to 86.2% in the prior year driven by increased utilization and the unfavorable impact of the Company's Medicare Advantage star ratings for the 2024 payment year within the Medicare product line, as well as the higher acuity in Medicaid and the change in estimate related to the individual exchange business risk adjustment accrual described above. These increases were partially offset by the favorable year-over-year impact of prior period development. Medical membership as of June 30, 2024 of 27.0 million increased 200,000 members compared with March 31, 2024 , reflecting increases in the Medicare and Medicaid product lines, including the commencement of the Medicaid Oklahoma contract on April 1, 2024 .

of 27.0 million increased 200,000 members compared with , reflecting increases in the Medicare and Medicaid product lines, including the commencement of the Medicaid Oklahoma contract on . Prior years' health care costs payable estimates developed favorably by $623 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024 . This development is reported on a basis consistent with the prior years' development reported in the health care costs payable table in the Company's annual audited financial statements and does not directly correspond to an increase in 2024 operating results.

during the six months ended . This development is reported on a basis consistent with the prior years' development reported in the health care costs payable table in the Company's annual audited financial statements and does not directly correspond to an increase in 2024 operating results. Days claims payable were 43.1 days as of June 30, 2024 , a decrease of 1.4 days compared to March 31, 2024 . The decrease was primarily driven by elevated reserves held in the first quarter of 2024, including the impact of the Change Healthcare cyberattack.

Based on the current performance and outlook for the Health Care Benefits segment, the Company has decided to make leadership changes effective immediately. Brian Kane is leaving the Company. Karen Lynch will assume direct leadership of the Health Care Benefits segment. Both Karen and Tom Cowhey, CFO of CVS Health will be overseeing the day-to-day management of this business.

In addition, Katerina Guerraz, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, will be the Chief Operating Officer of the Health Care Benefits segment. Katerina is a 20-year Aetna veteran with extensive Commercial and Medicare experience and has a track record of operational excellence.

See the supplemental information on page 17 for additional information regarding the performance of the Health Care Benefits segment.

Health Services segment

The Health Services segment provides a full range of pharmacy benefit management solutions, delivers health care services in its medical clinics, virtually, and in the home, and offers provider enablement solutions. The segment results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:



Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30, In millions 2024

2023

Change

2024

2023

Change Total revenues $ 42,171

$ 46,215

$ (4,044)

$ 82,456

$ 90,806

$ (8,350) Adjusted operating income (1) 1,915

1,894

21

3,278

3,574

(296) Pharmacy claims processed (5) (6) 471.2

576.6

(105.4)

934.1

1,163.9

(229.8)

Total revenues decreased 8.8% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year primarily driven by the previously announced loss of a large client and continued pharmacy client price improvements. These decreases were partially offset by pharmacy drug mix, increased contributions from the Company's health care delivery assets and growth in specialty pharmacy.

compared to the prior year primarily driven by the previously announced loss of a large client and continued pharmacy client price improvements. These decreases were partially offset by pharmacy drug mix, increased contributions from the Company's health care delivery assets and growth in specialty pharmacy. Adjusted operating income increased 1.1% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year primarily driven by improved purchasing economics, partially offset by continued pharmacy client price improvements and the previously announced loss of a large client.

compared to the prior year primarily driven by improved purchasing economics, partially offset by continued pharmacy client price improvements and the previously announced loss of a large client. Pharmacy claims processed decreased 18.3% on a 30-day equivalent basis for the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year, reflecting the previously announced loss of a large client.

See the supplemental information on page 18 for additional information regarding the performance of the Health Services segment.

Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment

The Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment dispenses prescriptions in its retail pharmacies and through its infusion operations, provides ancillary pharmacy services including pharmacy patient care programs, diagnostic testing and vaccination administration, and sells a wide assortment of health and wellness products and general merchandise. The segment also provides pharmacy services to long-term care facilities and pharmacy fulfillment services to support the Health Services segment's specialty and mail order pharmacy offerings. The segment results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 were as follows:



Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30, In millions 2024

2023

Change

2024

2023

Change Total revenues $ 29,838

$ 28,784

$ 1,054

$ 58,563

$ 56,706

$ 1,857 Adjusted operating income (1) 1,243

1,413

(170)

2,420

2,547

(127) Prescriptions filled (5) (6) 420.4

405.7

14.7

838.0

810.5

27.5

Total revenues increased 3.7% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year primarily driven by increased prescription volume and pharmacy drug mix. These increases were partially offset by continued pharmacy reimbursement pressure, the impact of recent generic introductions and decreased front store volume, including the impact of a decrease in store count and lower contributions from COVID-19 over-the-counter ("OTC") test kits since the expiration of the public health emergency in May 2023 .

compared to the prior year primarily driven by increased prescription volume and pharmacy drug mix. These increases were partially offset by continued pharmacy reimbursement pressure, the impact of recent generic introductions and decreased front store volume, including the impact of a decrease in store count and lower contributions from COVID-19 over-the-counter ("OTC") test kits since the expiration of the public health emergency in . Adjusted operating income decreased 12.0% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 , compared to the prior year primarily driven by continued pharmacy reimbursement pressure and decreased front store volume, including lower contributions from COVID-19 OTC test kits. These decreases were partially offset by increased prescription volume, improved drug purchasing and pharmacy drug mix.

, compared to the prior year primarily driven by continued pharmacy reimbursement pressure and decreased front store volume, including lower contributions from COVID-19 OTC test kits. These decreases were partially offset by increased prescription volume, improved drug purchasing and pharmacy drug mix. Prescriptions filled increased 3.6% on a 30-day equivalent basis for the three months ended June 30, 2024 compared to the prior year primarily driven by increased utilization.

See the supplemental information on page 19 for additional information regarding the performance of the Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment.

2024 Full-year guidance

The Company revised its full-year 2024 GAAP diluted EPS guidance to a range of $4.95 to $5.20 from at least $5.64 and revised its full-year 2024 Adjusted EPS guidance to a range of $6.40 to $6.65 from at least $7.00. The Company also revised its full-year 2024 cash flow from operations guidance to approximately $9.0 billion from at least $10.5 billion.

The Company's guidance revision reflects continued pressure in the Health Care Benefits segment, partially offset by strong performance in the Health Services and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments. Additional details of the guidance revision can be found in the Q2 2024 Earnings Presentation on the Investor Relations section of the CVS Health website at http://investors.cvshealth.com.

The adjustments between full-year 2024 GAAP diluted EPS and Adjusted EPS include amortization of intangible assets, net realized capital losses, acquisition-related integration costs, opioid litigation charges and the corresponding income tax benefit or expense related to the items excluded from adjusted income attributable to CVS Health.

Teleconference and webcast

The Company will be holding a conference call today for investors at 8:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss its second quarter results. An audio webcast of the call will be broadcast simultaneously for all interested parties through the Investor Relations section of the CVS Health website at http://investors.cvshealth.com. This webcast will be archived and available on the website for a one-year period following the conference call.

About CVS Health

CVS Health is the leading health solutions company, delivering care like no one else can. We reach more people and improve the health of communities across America through our local presence, digital channels and over 300,000 dedicated colleagues  including more than 40,000 physicians, pharmacists, nurses and nurse practitioners. Wherever and whenever people need us, we help them with their health  whether that's managing chronic diseases, staying compliant with their medications or accessing affordable health and wellness services in the most convenient ways. We help people navigate the health care system  and their personal health care  by improving access, lowering costs and being a trusted partner for every meaningful moment of health. And we do it all with heart, each and every day. Follow @CVSHealth on social media.

Cautionary statement concerning forward-looking statements

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of CVS Health Corporation. Statements in this press release that are forward-looking include, but are not limited to, the information under the headings "2024 Full-Year Guidance", "CEO Commentary" and "Financial Results Summary" and the information included in the reconciliations and endnotes. By their nature, all forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and are subject to risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and/or quantify. Actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements due to the risks and uncertainties described in our Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section and under the heading "Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly periods ended March 31, 2024 and June 30, 2024 and our Current Reports on Form 8-K.

You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on CVS Health's forward-looking statements. CVS Health's forward-looking statements are and will be based upon management's then-current views and assumptions regarding future events and operating performance, and are applicable only as of the dates of such statements. CVS Health does not assume any duty to update or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, uncertainties or otherwise.

- Tables Follow -

CVS HEALTH CORPORATION Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30, In millions, except per share amounts 2024

2023

2024

2023 Revenues:













Products $ 56,212

$ 60,539

$ 109,936

$ 118,686 Premiums 30,667

25,108

61,058

49,460 Services 3,961

3,000

7,829

5,445 Net investment income 394

274

848

608 Total revenues 91,234

88,921

179,671

174,199 Operating costs:













Cost of products sold 49,998

53,536

98,071

104,991 Health care costs 27,853

21,782

55,656

42,230 Operating expenses 10,338

9,873

20,628

19,453 Restructuring charge 

496



496 Loss on assets held for sale 





349 Total operating costs 88,189

85,687

174,355

167,519 Operating income 3,045

3,234

5,316

6,680 Interest expense 732

686

1,448

1,275 Other income (24)

(22)

(49)

(44) Income before income tax provision 2,337

2,570

3,917

5,449 Income tax provision 569

656

1,025

1,393 Net income 1,768

1,914

2,892

4,056 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 2

(13)

(9)

(19) Net income attributable to CVS Health $ 1,770

$ 1,901

$ 2,883

$ 4,037















Net income per share attributable to CVS Health:













Basic $ 1.41

$ 1.48

$ 2.29

$ 3.15 Diluted $ 1.41

$ 1.48

$ 2.28

$ 3.13 Weighted average shares outstanding:













Basic 1,256

1,283

1,258

1,283 Diluted 1,259

1,287

1,263

1,289 Dividends declared per share $ 0.665

$ 0.605

$ 1.33

$ 1.21

CVS HEALTH CORPORATION Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

In millions June 30,

2024

December 31,

2023 Assets:





Cash and cash equivalents $ 12,507

$ 8,196 Investments 3,755

3,259 Accounts receivable, net 32,385

35,227 Inventories 16,068

18,025 Other current assets 5,237

3,151 Total current assets 69,952

67,858 Long-term investments 25,028

23,019 Property and equipment, net 13,032

13,183 Operating lease right-of-use assets 16,901

17,252 Goodwill 91,272

91,272 Intangible assets, net 28,311

29,234 Separate accounts assets 3,187

3,250 Other assets 4,798

4,660 Total assets $ 252,481

$ 249,728







Liabilities:





Accounts payable $ 14,416

$ 14,897 Pharmacy claims and discounts payable 24,188

22,874 Health care costs payable 13,885

12,049 Policyholders' funds 1,051

1,326 Accrued expenses 21,163

22,189 Other insurance liabilities 1,041

1,141 Current portion of operating lease liabilities 1,911

1,741 Short-term debt 

200 Current portion of long-term debt 3,731

2,772 Total current liabilities 81,386

79,189 Long-term operating lease liabilities 15,537

16,034 Long-term debt 62,643

58,638 Deferred income taxes 4,052

4,311 Separate accounts liabilities 3,187

3,250 Other long-term insurance liabilities 5,039

5,459 Other long-term liabilities 5,526

6,211 Total liabilities 177,370

173,092







Shareholders' equity:





Preferred stock 

 Common stock and capital surplus 49,371

48,992 Treasury stock (36,919)

(33,838) Retained earnings 62,797

61,604 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (319)

(297) Total CVS Health shareholders' equity 74,930

76,461 Noncontrolling interests 181

175 Total shareholders' equity 75,111

76,636 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 252,481

$ 249,728

CVS HEALTH CORPORATION Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)



Six Months Ended June 30, In millions 2024

2023 Cash flows from operating activities:





Cash receipts from customers $ 173,728

$ 175,567 Cash paid for inventory, prescriptions dispensed and health services rendered (90,845)

(101,318) Insurance benefits paid (52,485)

(41,108) Cash paid to other suppliers and employees (21,124)

(17,686) Interest and investment income received 839

801 Interest paid (1,392)

(1,131) Income taxes paid (729)

(1,779) Net cash provided by operating activities 7,992

13,346







Cash flows from investing activities:





Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments 4,418

3,640 Purchases of investments (6,781)

(4,499) Purchases of property and equipment (1,343)

(1,575) Acquisitions (net of cash and restricted cash acquired) (73)

(16,474) Other 60

32 Net cash used in investing activities (3,719)

(18,876)







Cash flows from financing activities:





Commercial paper borrowings (repayments), net (200)

1,000 Proceeds from issuance of short-term loan 

5,000 Repayment of short-term loan 

(5,000) Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt 4,959

10,898 Repayments of long-term debt (37)

(1,787) Repurchase of common stock (3,024)

(2,016) Dividends paid (1,698)

(1,574) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 228

120 Payments for taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards (176)

(168) Other (30)

(121) Net cash provided by financing activities 22

6,352 Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 4,295

822 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the period 8,525

13,305 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of the period $ 12,820

$ 14,127

CVS HEALTH CORPORATION Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)



Six Months Ended June 30, In millions 2024

2023 Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:





Net income $ 2,892

$ 4,056 Adjustments required to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:





Depreciation and amortization 2,289

2,105 Stock-based compensation 270

307 Deferred income taxes and other items (341)

87 Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions:





Accounts receivable, net 2,798

(804) Inventories 1,937

1,800 Other assets (2,241)

(913) Accounts payable and pharmacy claims and discounts payable 1,191

(118) Health care costs payable and other insurance liabilities 1,581

4,334 Other liabilities (2,384)

2,492 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 7,992

$ 13,346

Non-GAAP Financial Information

The Company uses non-GAAP financial measures to analyze underlying business performance and trends. The Company believes that providing these non-GAAP financial measures enhances the Company's and investors' ability to compare the Company's past financial performance with its current performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are provided as supplemental information to the financial measures presented in this press release that are calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures determined or calculated in accordance with GAAP. The Company's definitions of its non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Non-GAAP financial measures such as consolidated adjusted operating income, adjusted earnings per share ("EPS") and adjusted income attributable to CVS Health exclude from the relevant GAAP metrics, as applicable: amortization of intangible assets, net realized capital gains or losses and other items, if any, that neither relate to the ordinary course of the Company's business nor reflect the Company's underlying business performance.

For the periods covered in this press release, the following items are excluded from the non-GAAP financial measures described above, as applicable, because the Company believes they neither relate to the ordinary course of the Company's business nor reflect the Company's underlying business performance:

The Company's acquisition activities have resulted in the recognition of intangible assets as required under the acquisition method of accounting which consist primarily of trademarks, customer contracts/relationships, covenants not to compete, technology, provider networks and value of business acquired. Definite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are tested for impairment when events indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The amortization of intangible assets is reflected in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations in operating expenses within each segment. Although intangible assets contribute to the Company's revenue generation, the amortization of intangible assets does not directly relate to the underwriting of the Company's insurance products, the services performed for the Company's customers or the sale of the Company's products or services. Additionally, intangible asset amortization expense typically fluctuates based on the size and timing of the Company's acquisition activity. Accordingly, the Company believes excluding the amortization of intangible assets enhances the Company's and investors' ability to compare the Company's past financial performance with its current performance and to analyze underlying business performance and trends. Intangible asset amortization excluded from the related non-GAAP financial measure represents the entire amount recorded within the Company's GAAP financial statements, and the revenue generated by the associated intangible assets has not been excluded from the related non-GAAP financial measure. Intangible asset amortization is excluded from the related non-GAAP financial measure because the amortization, unlike the related revenue, is not affected by operations of any particular period unless an intangible asset becomes impaired or the estimated useful life of an intangible asset is revised.

The Company's net realized capital gains and losses arise from various types of transactions, primarily in the course of managing a portfolio of assets that support the payment of insurance liabilities. Net realized capital gains and losses are reflected in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations in net investment income (loss) within each segment. These capital gains and losses are the result of investment decisions, market conditions and other economic developments that are unrelated to the performance of the Company's business, and the amount and timing of these capital gains and losses do not directly relate to the underwriting of the Company's insurance products, the services performed for the Company's customers or the sale of the Company's products or services. Accordingly, the Company believes excluding net realized capital gains and losses enhances the Company's and investors' ability to compare the Company's past financial performance with its current performance and to analyze underlying business performance and trends.

During the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 , the acquisition-related integration costs relate to the acquisitions of Signify Health and Oak Street Health. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2023 , the acquisition-related transaction and integration costs relate to the acquisitions of Signify Health and Oak Street Health. The acquisition-related transaction and integration costs are reflected in the Company's unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations in operating expenses within the Corporate/Other segment.

, the acquisition-related integration costs relate to the acquisitions of Signify Health and Oak Street Health. During the three and six months ended , the acquisition-related transaction and integration costs relate to the acquisitions of Signify Health and Oak Street Health. The acquisition-related transaction and integration costs are reflected in the Company's unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations in operating expenses within the Corporate/Other segment. During the six months ended June 30, 2024 , the opioid litigation charge relates to a change in the Company's accrual related to ongoing opioid litigation matters.

, the opioid litigation charge relates to a change in the Company's accrual related to ongoing opioid litigation matters. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2023 , the restructuring charge is primarily comprised of severance and employee-related costs and asset impairment charges. During the second quarter of 2023, the Company developed an enterprise-wide restructuring plan intended to streamline and simplify the organization, improve efficiency and reduce costs. In connection with the development of this plan and the recently completed acquisitions of Signify Health and Oak Street Health, the Company also conducted a strategic review of its various transformation initiatives and determined that it would terminate certain initiatives. The restructuring charge is reflected within the Corporate/Other segment.

, the restructuring charge is primarily comprised of severance and employee-related costs and asset impairment charges. During the second quarter of 2023, the Company developed an enterprise-wide restructuring plan intended to streamline and simplify the organization, improve efficiency and reduce costs. In connection with the development of this plan and the recently completed acquisitions of Signify Health and Oak Street Health, the Company also conducted a strategic review of its various transformation initiatives and determined that it would terminate certain initiatives. The restructuring charge is reflected within the Corporate/Other segment. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2023 , the office real estate optimization charges primarily relate to the abandonment of leased real estate and the related right-of-use assets and property and equipment in connection with the planned reduction of corporate office real estate space in response to the Company's new flexible work arrangement. The office real estate optimization charges are reflected in the Company's unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations in operating expenses within the Health Care Benefits, Health Services and Corporate/Other segments.

, the office real estate optimization charges primarily relate to the abandonment of leased real estate and the related right-of-use assets and property and equipment in connection with the planned reduction of corporate office real estate space in response to the Company's new flexible work arrangement. The office real estate optimization charges are reflected in the Company's unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations in operating expenses within the Health Care Benefits, Health Services and Corporate/Other segments. During the six months ended June 30, 2023 , the loss on assets held for sale relates to the long-term care ("LTC") reporting unit within the Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment. During 2022, the Company determined that its LTC business was no longer a strategic asset and committed to a plan to sell it, at which time the LTC business met the criteria for held-for-sale accounting and its net assets were accounted for as assets held for sale. During the first quarter of 2023, a loss on assets held for sale was recorded to write down the carrying value of the LTC business to the Company's best estimate of the ultimate selling price which reflected its estimated fair value less costs to sell. As of the third quarter of 2023, the Company determined the LTC business no longer met the criteria for held-for-sale accounting and accordingly the net assets associated with the LTC business were reclassified to held and used at their respective fair values.

, the loss on assets held for sale relates to the long-term care ("LTC") reporting unit within the Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment. During 2022, the Company determined that its LTC business was no longer a strategic asset and committed to a plan to sell it, at which time the LTC business met the criteria for held-for-sale accounting and its net assets were accounted for as assets held for sale. During the first quarter of 2023, a loss on assets held for sale was recorded to write down the carrying value of the LTC business to the Company's best estimate of the ultimate selling price which reflected its estimated fair value less costs to sell. As of the third quarter of 2023, the Company determined the LTC business no longer met the criteria for held-for-sale accounting and accordingly the net assets associated with the LTC business were reclassified to held and used at their respective fair values. The corresponding tax benefit or expense related to the items excluded from adjusted income attributable to CVS Health and Adjusted EPS above. The nature of each non-GAAP adjustment is evaluated to determine whether a discrete adjustment should be made to the adjusted income tax provision.

See endnotes (1) and (2) on page 23 for definitions of non-GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations of each non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure are presented on pages 13 through 15 and page 22.

Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the Most Directly Comparable GAAP Financial Measures

Adjusted Operating Income (Unaudited)

The following are reconciliations of consolidated operating income (GAAP measure) to consolidated adjusted operating income, as well as reconciliations of segment GAAP operating income (loss) to segment adjusted operating income (loss):



Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 In millions Health Care Benefits

Health Services

Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness

Corporate/ Other

Consolidated Totals Operating income (loss) (GAAP measure) $ 574

$ 1,766

$ 1,179

$ (474)

$ 3,045 Amortization of intangible assets 293

149

64

1

507 Net realized capital losses 71





19

90 Acquisition-related integration costs 





102

102 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) $ 938

$ 1,915

$ 1,243

$ (352)

$ 3,744



Three Months Ended June 30, 2023 In millions Health Care Benefits

Health Services

Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness

Corporate/ Other

Consolidated Totals Operating income (loss) (GAAP measure) $ 1,160

$ 1,767

$ 1,349

$ (1,042)

$ 3,234 Amortization of intangible assets 294

125

65

1

485 Net realized capital (gains) losses 78



(1)

21

98 Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs 





157

157 Restructuring charge 





496

496 Office real estate optimization charges 9

2





11 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) $ 1,541

$ 1,894

$ 1,413

$ (367)

$ 4,481



Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 In millions Health Care Benefits

Health Services

Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness

Corporate/ Other

Consolidated Totals Operating income (loss) (GAAP measure) $ 1,002

$ 2,979

$ 2,292

$ (957)

$ 5,316 Amortization of intangible assets 587

299

128

1

1,015 Net realized capital losses 81





27

108 Acquisition-related integration costs 





162

162 Opioid litigation charge 





100

100 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) $ 1,670

$ 3,278

$ 2,420

$ (667)

$ 6,701



Six Months Ended June 30, 2023 In millions Health Care Benefits

Health Services

Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness

Corporate/ Other

Consolidated Totals Operating income (loss) (GAAP measure) $ 2,568

$ 3,405

$ 2,066

$ (1,359)

$ 6,680 Amortization of intangible assets 589

166

130

2

887 Net realized capital losses 177



2

24

203 Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs 





200

200 Restructuring charge 





496

496 Office real estate optimization charges 31

3



2

36 Loss on assets held for sale 



349



349 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) $ 3,365

$ 3,574

$ 2,547

$ (635)

$ 8,851

Adjusted Earnings Per Share (Unaudited)

The following are reconciliations of net income attributable to CVS Health to adjusted income attributable to CVS Health and calculations of GAAP diluted EPS and Adjusted EPS:



Three Months Ended June 30, 2024

Three Months Ended June 30, 2023 In millions, except per share amounts Total

Company

Per

Common

Share

Total

Company

Per

Common

Share Net income attributable to CVS Health (GAAP measure) $ 1,770

$ 1.41

$ 1,901

$ 1.48 Amortization of intangible assets 507

0.40

485

0.38 Net realized capital losses 90

0.07

98

0.08 Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs 102

0.08

157

0.12 Restructuring charge 



496

0.38 Office real estate optimization charges 



11

0.01 Tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments (163)

(0.13)

(303)

(0.24) Adjusted income attributable to CVS Health (2) $ 2,306

$ 1.83

$ 2,845

$ 2.21















Weighted average diluted shares outstanding



1,259





1,287

































Six Months Ended June 30, 2024

Six Months Ended June 30, 2023 In millions, except per share amounts Total

Company

Per

Common

Share

Total

Company

Per

Common

Share Net income attributable to CVS Health (GAAP measure) $ 2,883

$ 2.28

$ 4,037

$ 3.13 Amortization of intangible assets 1,015

0.80

887

0.69 Net realized capital losses 108

0.09

203

0.16 Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs 162

0.13

200

0.16 Opioid litigation charge 100

0.08



 Restructuring charge 



496

0.38 Office real estate optimization charges 



36

0.03 Loss on assets held for sale 



349

0.27 Tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments (305)

(0.24)

(524)

(0.41) Adjusted income attributable to CVS Health (2) $ 3,963

$ 3.14

$ 5,684

$ 4.41















Weighted average diluted shares outstanding



1,263





1,289

Supplemental Information

(Unaudited)

The Company's segments maintain separate financial information, and the Company's chief operating decision maker (the "CODM") evaluates the segments' operating results on a regular basis in deciding how to allocate resources among the segments and in assessing segment performance. The CODM evaluates the performance of the Company's segments based on adjusted operating income. Adjusted operating income is defined as operating income (GAAP measure) excluding the impact of amortization of intangible assets, net realized capital gains or losses and other items, if any, that neither relate to the ordinary course of the Company's business nor reflect the Company's underlying business performance as further described in endnote (1). The CODM uses adjusted operating income as its principal measure of segment performance as it enhances the CODM's ability to compare past financial performance with current performance and analyze underlying business performance and trends.

The following are reconciliations of financial measures of the Company's segments to the consolidated totals:

In millions Health Care Benefits

Health Services (a)

Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness

Corporate/ Other

Intersegment Eliminations (b)

Consolidated Totals Three Months Ended





















June 30, 2024





















Total revenues $ 32,475

$ 42,171

$ 29,838

$ 111

$ (13,361)

$ 91,234 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) 938

1,915

1,243

(352)



3,744 June 30, 2023





















Total revenues $ 26,747

$ 46,215

$ 28,784

$ 83

$ (12,908)

$ 88,921 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) 1,541

1,894

1,413

(367)



4,481























Six Months Ended





















June 30, 2024





















Total revenues $ 64,711

$ 82,456

$ 58,563

$ 226

$ (26,285)

$ 179,671 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) 1,670

3,278

2,420

(667)



6,701 June 30, 2023





















Total revenues $ 52,624

$ 90,806

$ 56,706

$ 271

$ (26,208)

$ 174,199 Adjusted operating income (loss) (1) 3,365

3,574

2,547

(635)



8,851

_____________________________________________ (a) Total revenues of the Health Services segment include approximately $2.8 billion and $3.4 billion of retail co-payments for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $6.2 billion and $7.5 billion of retail co-payments for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively. (b) Intersegment revenue eliminations relate to intersegment revenue generating activities that occur between the Health Care Benefits segment, the Health Services segment, and/or the Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment.

Supplemental Information (Unaudited)

Health Care Benefits segment

The following table summarizes the Health Care Benefits segment's performance for the respective periods:













Change

Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30,

Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023

Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023 In millions, except percentages and basis points ("bps") 2024

2023

2024

2023

$

%

$

% Revenues:





























Premiums $ 30,654

$ 25,095

$ 61,033

$ 49,434

$ 5,559

22.2 %

$ 11,599

23.5 % Services 1,521

1,447

3,025

2,821

74

5.1 %

204

7.2 % Net investment income 300

205

653

369

95

46.3 %

284

77.0 % Total revenues 32,475

26,747

64,711

52,624

5,728

21.4 %

12,087

23.0 % Health care costs 27,458

21,620

54,916

42,215

5,838

27.0 %

12,701

30.1 % MBR (Health care costs as a % of premium revenues) (3) 89.6 %

86.2 %

90.0 %

85.4 %

340 bps

460 bps Operating expenses $ 4,443

$ 3,967

$ 8,793

$ 7,841

$ 476

12.0 %

$ 952

12.1 % Operating expenses as a % of total revenues 13.7 %

14.8 %

13.6 %

14.9 %















Operating income $ 574

$ 1,160

$ 1,002

$ 2,568

$ (586)

(50.5) %

$ (1,566)

(61.0) % Operating income as a % of total revenues 1.8 %

4.3 %

1.5 %

4.9 %















Adjusted operating income (1) $ 938

$ 1,541

$ 1,670

$ 3,365

$ (603)

(39.1) %

$ (1,695)

(50.4) % Adjusted operating income as a % of total revenues 2.9 %

5.8 %

2.6 %

6.4 %















Premium revenues (by business):





























Government $ 22,222

$ 17,944

$ 43,938

$ 35,472

$ 4,278

23.8 %

$ 8,466

23.9 % Commercial 8,432

7,151

17,095

13,962

1,281

17.9 %

3,133

22.4 %



The following table summarizes the Health Care Benefits segment's medical membership for the respective periods:



June 30, 2024

March 31, 2024

December 31, 2023

June 30, 2023 In thousands Insured

ASC

Total

Insured

ASC

Total

Insured

ASC

Total

Insured

ASC

Total Medical membership: (4)













































Commercial 4,702

14,099

18,801

4,735

14,111

18,846

4,252

14,087

18,339

4,033

14,114

18,147 Medicare Advantage 4,342



4,342

4,205



4,205

3,460



3,460

3,408



3,408 Medicare Supplement 1,294



1,294

1,300



1,300

1,343



1,343

1,351



1,351 Medicaid 2,090

443

2,533

1,972

447

2,419

2,073

444

2,517

2,261

467

2,728 Total medical membership 12,428

14,542

26,970

12,212

14,558

26,770

11,128

14,531

25,659

11,053

14,581

25,634















































Supplemental membership information:







































Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (stand-alone) 4,903









4,947









6,081









6,094



The following table summarizes the Health Care Benefits segment's days claims payable for the respective periods:



June 30, 2024

March 31, 2024

December 31, 2023

June 30, 2023 Days Claims Payable (7) 43.1

44.5

45.9

46.9

Supplemental Information (Unaudited)

Health Services segment

The following table summarizes the Health Services segment's performance for the respective periods:















Change

Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30,

Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023

Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023 In millions, except percentages 2024

2023

2024

2023

$

%

$

% Revenues:





























Products $ 39,492

$ 44,681

$ 77,209

$ 88,352

$ (5,189)

(11.6) %

$ (11,143)

(12.6) % Services 2,681

1,534

5,249

2,454

1,147

74.8 %

2,795

113.9 % Net investment income (loss) (2)



(2)



(2)

(100.0) %

(2)

(100.0) % Total revenues 42,171

46,215

82,456

90,806

(4,044)

(8.8) %

(8,350)

(9.2) % Cost of products sold 38,765

43,271

76,297

85,687

(4,506)

(10.4) %

(9,390)

(11.0) % Health care costs 791

383

1,492

383

408

106.5 %

1,109

289.6 % Gross profit (8) 2,615

2,561

4,667

4,736

54

2.1 %

(69)

(1.5) % Gross margin (Gross profit as a % of total revenues) (8) 6.2 %

5.5 %

5.7 %

5.2 %















Operating expenses $ 849

$ 794

$ 1,688

$ 1,331

$ 55

6.9 %

$ 357

26.8 % Operating expenses as a % of total revenues 2.0 %

1.7 %

2.0 %

1.5 %















Operating income $ 1,766

$ 1,767

$ 2,979

$ 3,405

$ (1)

(0.1) %

$ (426)

(12.5) % Operating income as a % of total revenues 4.2 %

3.8 %

3.6 %

3.7 %















Adjusted operating income (1) $ 1,915

$ 1,894

$ 3,278

$ 3,574

$ 21

1.1 %

$ (296)

(8.3) % Adjusted operating income as a % of total revenues 4.5 %

4.1 %

4.0 %

3.9 %















Revenues (by distribution channel):





























Pharmacy network (9) $ 21,848

$ 27,477

$ 42,312

$ 55,069

$ (5,629)

(20.5) %

$ (12,757)

(23.2) % Mail & specialty (10) 17,651

17,229

34,913

33,374

422

2.4 %

1,539

4.6 % Other 2,674

1,509

5,233

2,363

1,165

77.2 %

2,870

121.5 % Net investment income (loss) (2)



(2)



(2)

(100.0) %

(2)

(100.0) % Pharmacy claims processed (5) (6) 471.2

576.6

934.1

1,163.9

(105.4)

(18.3) %

(229.8)

(19.7) % Generic dispensing rate (6) (11) 88.2 %

88.3 %

88.3 %

88.4 %

















Supplemental Information (Unaudited)

Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment

The following table summarizes the Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment's performance for the respective periods:















Change

Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30,

Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023

Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023 In millions, except percentages 2024

2023

2024

2023

$

%

$

% Revenues:





























Products $ 29,252

$ 28,141

$ 57,372

$ 55,399

$ 1,111

3.9 %

$ 1,973

3.6 % Services 586

642

1,191

1,309

(56)

(8.7) %

(118)

(9.0) % Net investment income (loss) 

1



(2)

(1)

(100.0) %

2

100.0 % Total revenues 29,838

28,784

58,563

56,706

1,054

3.7 %

1,857

3.3 % Cost of products sold 23,835

22,628

46,595

44,504

1,207

5.3 %

2,091

4.7 % Gross profit (8) 6,003

6,156

11,968

12,202

(153)

(2.5) %

(234)

(1.9) % Gross margin (Gross profit as a % of total revenues) (8) 20.1 %

21.4 %

20.4 %

21.5 %















Operating expenses $ 4,824

$ 4,807

$ 9,676

$ 9,787

$ 17

0.4 %

$ (111)

(1.1) % Operating expenses as a % of total revenues 16.2 %

16.7 %

16.5 %

17.3 %















Loss on assets held for sale $ 

$ 

$ 

$ 349

$ 

 %

$ (349)

(100.0) % Operating income 1,179

1,349

2,292

2,066

(170)

(12.6) %

226

10.9 % Operating income as a % of total revenues 4.0 %

4.7 %

3.9 %

3.6 %















Adjusted operating income (1) $ 1,243

$ 1,413

$ 2,420

$ 2,547

$ (170)

(12.0) %

$ (127)

(5.0) % Adjusted operating income as a % of total revenues 4.2 %

4.9 %

4.1 %

4.5 %















Revenues (by major goods/service lines):





























Pharmacy $ 24,013

$ 22,614

$ 46,797

$ 44,394

$ 1,399

6.2 %

$ 2,403

5.4 % Front Store 5,281

5,629

10,651

11,226

(348)

(6.2) %

(575)

(5.1) % Other 544

540

1,115

1,088

4

0.7 %

27

2.5 % Net investment income (loss) 

1



(2)

(1)

(100.0) %

2

100.0 % Prescriptions filled (5) (6) 420.4

405.7

838.0

810.5

14.7

3.6 %

27.5

3.4 % Same store sales increase (decrease): (12)





























Total 6.4 %

10.9 %

5.9 %

11.3 %















Pharmacy 9.1 %

14.3 %

8.2 %

13.5 %















Front Store (4.0) %

(0.3) %

(3.1) %

3.5 %















Prescription volume (6) 6.5 %

3.6 %

6.1 %

4.3 %















Generic dispensing rate (6) (11) 90.1 %

89.5 %

90.1 %

89.5 %

















Supplemental Information (Unaudited)

Corporate/Other segment

The following table summarizes the Corporate/Other segment's performance for the respective periods:















Change

Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30,

Three Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023

Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 vs 2023 In millions, except percentages 2024

2023

2024

2023

$

%

$

% Revenues:





























Premiums $ 13

$ 13

$ 25

$ 26

$ 

 %

$ (1)

(3.8) % Services 2

2

4

4



 %



 % Net investment income 96

68

197

241

28

41.2 %

(44)

(18.3) % Total revenues 111

83

226

271

28

33.7 %

(45)

(16.6) % Cost of products sold 





1



 %

(1)

(100.0) % Health care costs 46

50

93

102

(4)

(8.0) %

(9)

(8.8) % Operating expenses 539

579

1,090

1,031

(40)

(6.9) %

59

5.7 % Restructuring charge 

496



496

(496)

(100.0) %

(496)

(100.0) % Operating loss (474)

(1,042)

(957)

(1,359)

568

54.5 %

402

29.6 % Adjusted operating loss (1) (352)

(367)

(667)

(635)

15

4.1 %

(32)

(5.0) %

Supplemental Information (Unaudited)

The following table shows the components of the change in the consolidated health care costs payable during the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:



Six Months Ended June 30, In millions 2024

2023 Health care costs payable, beginning of the period $ 12,049

$ 10,142 Less: Reinsurance recoverables 5

5 Less: Impact of discount rate on long-duration insurance reserves (a) (23)

8 Health care costs payable, beginning of the period, net 12,067

10,129 Acquisitions, net 

1,102 Add: Components of incurred health care costs





Current year 56,177

42,705 Prior years (b) (662)

(619) Total incurred health care costs (c) 55,515

42,086 Less: Claims paid





Current year 43,218

32,502 Prior years 10,514

8,800 Total claims paid 53,732

41,302 Health care costs payable, end of the period, net 13,850

12,015 Add: Reinsurance recoverables 59

5 Add: Impact of discount rate on long-duration insurance reserves (a) (24)

(22) Health care costs payable, end of the period $ 13,885

$ 11,998

_____________________________________________ (a) Reflects the difference between the current discount rate and the locked-in discount rate on long-duration insurance reserves which is recorded within accumulated other comprehensive loss on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets. (b) Negative amounts reported for incurred health care costs related to prior years result from claims being settled for amounts less than originally estimated. (c) Total incurred health care costs for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 in the table above exclude $48 million and $42 million, respectively, of health care costs recorded in the Health Care Benefits segment that are included in other insurance liabilities on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets and $93 million and $102 million, respectively, of health care costs recorded in the Corporate/Other segment that are included in other insurance liabilities on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Adjusted Earnings Per Share Guidance

(Unaudited)

The following reconciliation of projected net income attributable to CVS Health to projected adjusted income attributable to CVS Health and calculations of projected GAAP diluted EPS and projected Adjusted EPS contain forward-looking information. All forward-looking information involves risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking information for a number of reasons as described in our SEC filings, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section and under the heading "Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" in our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2024. See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" earlier in this press release and endnote (2) later in this press release for more information on how we calculate Adjusted EPS.



Year Ending December 31, 2024

Low

High In millions, except per share amounts Total

Company

Per

Common

Share

Total

Company

Per

Common

Share Net income attributable to CVS Health (GAAP measure) $ 6,247

$ 4.95

$ 6,564

$ 5.20 Non-GAAP adjustments:













Amortization of intangible assets 2,020

1.60

2,020

1.60 Net realized capital losses 108

0.09

108

0.09 Acquisition-related integration costs 240

0.19

230

0.18 Opioid litigation charge 100

0.08

100

0.08 Tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments (635)

(0.51)

(632)

(0.50) Adjusted income attributable to CVS Health (2) $ 8,080

$ 6.40

$ 8,390

$ 6.65















Weighted average diluted shares outstanding



1,262





1,262

Endnotes

(1) The Company defines adjusted operating income as operating income (GAAP measure) excluding the impact of amortization of intangible assets, net realized capital gains or losses and other items, if any, that neither relate to the ordinary course of the Company's business nor reflect the Company's underlying business performance, such as acquisition-related transaction and integration costs, opioid litigation charges, restructuring charges, office real estate optimization charges and losses on assets held for sale. The CODM uses adjusted operating income as its principal measure of segment performance as it enhances the CODM's ability to compare past financial performance with current performance and analyze underlying business performance and trends. The consolidated measure is not determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, consolidated operating income. See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" earlier in this press release for additional information regarding the items excluded from consolidated operating income in determining consolidated adjusted operating income.

(2) GAAP diluted earnings per share and Adjusted EPS, respectively, are calculated by dividing net income attributable to CVS Health and adjusted income attributable to CVS Health by the Company's weighted average diluted shares outstanding. The Company defines adjusted income attributable to CVS Health as net income attributable to CVS Health (GAAP measure) excluding the impact of amortization of intangible assets, net realized capital gains or losses and other items, if any, that neither relate to the ordinary course of the Company's business nor reflect the Company's underlying business performance, such as acquisition-related transaction and integration costs, opioid litigation charges, restructuring charges, office real estate optimization charges, losses on assets held for sale, as well as the corresponding income tax benefit or expense related to the items excluded from adjusted income attributable to CVS Health. See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" earlier in this press release for additional information regarding the items excluded from net income attributable to CVS Health in determining adjusted income attributable to CVS Health.

(3) Medical benefit ratio is calculated by dividing the Health Care Benefits segment's health care costs by premium revenues and represents the percentage of premium revenues spent on medical benefits for the segment's insured members. Management uses MBR to assess the underlying business performance and underwriting of its insurance products, understand variances between actual results and expected results and identify trends in period-over-period results. MBR provides management and investors with information useful in assessing the operating results of the segment's insured Health Care Benefits products.

(4) Medical membership represents the number of members covered by the Health Care Benefits segment's insured and ASC medical products and related services at a specified point in time. Management uses this metric to understand variances between actual medical membership and expected amounts as well as trends in period-over-period results. This metric provides management and investors with information useful in understanding the impact of medical membership on the Health Care Benefits segment's total revenues and operating results.

(5) Pharmacy claims processed represents the number of prescription claims processed through the Company's pharmacy benefits manager and dispensed by either its retail network pharmacies or the Company's mail and specialty pharmacies. Prescriptions filled represents the number of prescriptions dispensed through the Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment's retail and long-term care pharmacies and infusion services operations. Management uses these metrics to understand variances between actual claims processed and prescriptions dispensed, respectively, and expected amounts as well as trends in period-over-period results. These metrics provide management and investors with information useful in understanding the impact of pharmacy claim volume and prescription volume, respectively, on segment total revenues and operating results.

(6) Includes an adjustment to convert 90-day prescriptions to the equivalent of three 30-day prescriptions. This adjustment reflects the fact that these prescriptions include approximately three times the amount of product days supplied compared to a normal prescription.

(7) Days claims payable is calculated by dividing the Health Care Benefits segment's health care costs payable at the end of each quarter by its average health care costs per day during such quarter. Management and investors use this metric as an indicator of the adequacy of the Health Care Benefits segment's health care costs payable liability at the end of each quarter and as an indicator of changes in such adequacy over time.

(8) Gross profit is calculated as the segment's total revenues less its cost of products sold, and, for the Health Services segment, health care costs. Gross margin is calculated by dividing the segment's gross profit by its total revenues and represents the percentage of total revenues that remains after incurring direct costs associated with the segment's products sold and services provided. Gross margin provides investors with information that may be useful in assessing the operating results of the Company's Health Services and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments.

(9) Health Services pharmacy network revenues relate to claims filled at retail and specialty retail pharmacies, including the Company's retail pharmacies and LTC pharmacies, as well as activity associated with Maintenance Choice, which permits eligible client plan members to fill their maintenance prescriptions through mail order delivery or at a CVS pharmacy retail store for the same price as mail order.

(10) Health Services mail and specialty revenues relate to specialty mail claims inclusive of Specialty Connect claims picked up at a retail pharmacy, as well as mail order and specialty claims fulfilled by the Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segment.

(11) Generic dispensing rate is calculated by dividing the segment's generic drug claims processed or prescriptions filled by its total claims processed or prescriptions filled. Management uses this metric to evaluate the effectiveness of the business at encouraging the use of generic drugs when they are available and clinically appropriate, which aids in decreasing costs for client members and retail customers. This metric provides management and investors with information useful in understanding trends in segment total revenues and operating results.

(12) Same store sales and prescription volume represent the change in revenues and prescriptions filled in the Company's retail pharmacy stores that have been operating for greater than one year and digital sales initiated online or through mobile applications and fulfilled through the Company's distribution centers, expressed as a percentage that indicates the increase or decrease relative to the comparable prior period. Same store metrics exclude revenues and prescriptions from LTC and infusion services operations. Management uses these metrics to evaluate the performance of existing stores on a comparable basis and to inform future decisions regarding existing stores and new locations. Same-store metrics provide management and investors with information useful in understanding the portion of current revenues and prescriptions resulting from organic growth in existing locations versus the portion resulting from opening new stores.

SOURCE CVS Health Corporation
Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses Exceeding $100,000 In Toyota To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options

If you purchased or acquired securities in Toyota between June 25, 2022 and June 2, 2024 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). You may also click here for additional information: www.faruqilaw.com/TM.

NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP, a leading national securities law firm, is investigating potential claims against Toyota Motor Corporation ("Toyota" or the "Company") (NYSE: TM) and reminds investors of the August 23, 2024 deadline to seek the role of lead plaintiff in a federal securities class action that has been filed against the Company.

Faruqi & Faruqi Logo (PRNewsfoto/Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP)

Faruqi & Faruqi is a leading national securities law firm with offices in New York, Pennsylvania, California and Georgia. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors since its founding in 1995. See www.faruqilaw.com.

As detailed below, this Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts, about the Company's business and operations. Specifically, Defendants misrepresented and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Toyota understated its malfeasance relating to certification of its cars and issues relating to overall legal compliance; and (2) as a result, defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

On June 3, 2024, The New York Times published an article entitled "Toyota and Other Japanese Carmakers Say They Mishandled Safety Tests." This article stated, in pertinent part, that "Toyota [. . .] and other top Japanese automakers said on Monday that internal investigations found they had mishandled vehicle testing on dozens of models over the past decade." Further, "Toyota said it had failed to gather proper data when doing pedestrian and occupant safety tests for three models, including its popular Yaris Cross sport utility vehicle."

On this news, Toyota's American Depositary Shares ("ADSs") fell $5.34 per ADS, or 2.45%, to close at $212.17 per ADS on June 3, 2024.

The court-appointed lead plaintiff is the investor with the largest financial interest in the relief sought by the class who is adequate and typical of class members who directs and oversees the litigation on behalf of the putative class. Any member of the putative class may move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision to serve as a lead plaintiff or not.

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP also encourages anyone with information regarding Toyota's conduct to contact the firm, including whistleblowers, former employees, shareholders and others.

To learn more about the Toyota class action, go to www.faruqilaw.com/TM or call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310).

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, on X, or on Facebook.

Attorney Advertising. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP (www.faruqilaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your particular case. All communications will be treated in a confidential manner.

SOURCE Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- D&L Parts Company ("D&L"), a family-owned leading distributor of appliance & HVAC parts and equipment has acquired Cashwell Appliance Parts, Inc ("Cashwell"), another wholesale distributor of HVAC and appliance parts headquartered in Fayetteville, NC.

Founded in 1972, Cashwell is a family-owned company renowned for its experienced professionals who are dedicated to delivering high-quality parts and exceptional service to its clients. With seven locations across North Carolina and four in Virginia, Cashwell has established a strong presence in these regions.

The acquisition of Cashwell will complement and enhance the service quality for D&L customers across its Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions while offering an expansion opportunity for D&L in attractive long-term markets. With this acquisition, D&L will significantly bolster its mid-Atlantic and Southeast market position with 11 new locations This strategic combination will not only broaden D&L's reach but also optimize its product offering, supply capabilities and enhance its service to existing and new customers.

Susan Renegar, President of Cashwell, commented, "Cashwell has been in our family for decades and we had a lot of requirements we needed to see in a strong buyer for our business. We have always admired D&L and their operation, and we could not be happier for the future of our employees, our customers and suppliers now that we have joined forces with this great company and their talented employees."

Rachel Nystrom, President at D&L, commented, "We are thrilled to welcome Cashwell Appliance to the D&L Parts family. This transaction represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide unparalleled customer service and on-demand inventory to our customers. Through our combined strengths we will deliver even greater value and support to the appliance, HVAC and multifamily maintenance industries."

Dvorak Law Group, LLC provided legal counsel to D&L and Uplift Partners acted as the exclusive financial advisor to D&L.

About D&L Parts Company

D&L Parts Company, an American family-owned business since 1955, is a leading HVAC and appliance repair parts distributor in the Southeast representing major OEM's such as Trane, Whirlpool, GE and Frigidaire. With 30 locations across Virginia, North and South Carolina, D&L is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations with outstanding service, competitive prices, and exceptional parts availability. The strong relationships they have built with their customers are the foundation of their success.

For more information, please visit www.dlpartsco.com or contact Heather Jackson (704) 378-9931 or [email protected] .

SOURCE D&L Parts Company
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As Tropical Storm Debby makes its way into the Carolinas tomorrow, Duke Energy has 7,500 lineworkers, vegetation management and other workers, including 300 traveling from the Midwest to help support storm restoration efforts.

"With safety as our guiding principle, we are strategically staging crews across the Carolinas to be ready to respond as soon as conditions are safe to do so," said Jason Hollifield, Duke Energy storm director for the Carolinas. "We continue to encourage our customers to prepare for the impending storm."

Also, in advance of the storm, the Duke Energy Foundation has awarded $50,000 to the American Red Cross to support disaster response and relief efforts.

"The American Red Cross is proud of our partnership with Duke Energy and value the support of the Duke Energy Foundation for disaster relief, especially now as we assist scores of communities affected by the devastating flooding of Tropical Storm Debby," said Allison Q. Taylor, chief executive officer, North Carolina Region, American Red Cross.

Over the past five years, Duke Energy and its Foundation have donated more than $2.8 million to the American Red Cross in support of disaster relief.

Additionally, customers are encouraged to download the enhanced American Red Cross Emergency app for weather safety. The latest version of the app is free, available in both English and Spanish and offers a variety of features including emergency checklists, interactive maps of open shelters and the ability to monitor multiple locations for weather alerts.

Safety information

The safety of our customers and communities is important. Duke Energy encourages customers to have a plan in place to respond to an extended power outage after a hurricane or other severe weather. Below are some tips.

Before the storm

Create (or update) an emergency supply kit to save valuable time later. The kit should include everything an individual or family would need, especially medicines, water, nonperishable foods and other supplies that might be hard to find after a storm hits.

Keep a portable radio, TV or a NOAA weather radio on hand to monitor weather forecasts and important information from state and local officials.

Charge mobile phones, computers and other electronic devices in advance of storms to stay connected to important safety and response information. Consider purchasing portable chargers and make sure they are fully charged as well.

Maintain a plan to move family members  especially those with special needs  to a safe, alternative location in case an extended power outage occurs, or evacuation is required.

Electrical safety guidelines for floods

If rising water threatens your home or business  or if you evacuate due to flooding  turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box.

Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed electrical lines.

Don't drive over  and don't stand near  downed electrical lines.

Never replace a fuse or touch a circuit breaker with wet hands, or while standing on a wet or damp surface.

If your home or business is flooded, Duke Energy cannot reconnect power until the electrical system has been inspected by a licensed electrician. If there is damage, an electrician will need to make necessary repairs and obtain verification from your local building inspection authority before power can be restored.

After the storm

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines.

If a power line falls across a car that you are in, stay in the car. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

Downed lines will be hard to see in the rain and can potentially be hidden in standing water. If you encounter large pools of standing water, stop, back up and choose another path.

For more tips on how to prepare for storm season, please visit duke-energy.com/StormTips.

Reporting an outage

Customers are encouraged to sign up for alerts and know how to report an outage. Receive the most up-to-date information about restoration efforts by enrolling in Outage Alerts. If you lose power, text OUT to 57801, report online or through the mobile app, or call 800.POWERON (800.769.3766).

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: Shawna Berger

Media line: 800.559.3853

Twitter: @DE_ShawnaB

SOURCE Duke Energy
BOGOTA, Colombia, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ecopetrol S.A. (BVC: ECOPETROL; NYSE: EC) announces that, as part of its comprehensive debt management strategy, it will redeem U.S.$250 million of its 5.375% Notes due 2026 (the "Notes") (CUSIP: 279158 AL3 / ISIN: US279158AL39). The outstanding balance of the Notes is U.S.$1.5 billion as of the date hereof.

The redemption date of the bonds will take place on September 5, 2024 (the "Redemption Date") at a redemption price equal to, approximately, U.S.$1,014.95 per U.S.$1,000.00 principal amount outstanding (approximately U.S.$253,737,148.23 for U.S.$250,000,000.00 aggregate principal amount of the Notes outstanding), plus accrued and unpaid interest to the Redemption Date equal to U.S.$10.30 per U.S.$1,000 principal amount outstanding (approximately U.S.$2,575,520.83 for U.S.$250,000,000.00 aggregate principal amount of the Notes outstanding), amounting to, approximately, U.S.$1,025.25 per U.S.$1,000 principal amount outstanding (approximately U.S.$256,312,669.06 for U.S.$250,000,000.00 aggregate principal amount of the Notes outstanding), to be finally calculated three business days prior to the Redemption Date.

The redemption is in line with the objectives of the financial plan and confirms Ecopetrol S.A.'s commitment to proactively manage the refinancing of maturities in 2026.

For more information, please refer to the Securities and Exchange Commission's official Securities and Exchange Commission press release at the following link: Ecopetrol - Notice of Redemption to Holders - 2026 Notes.pdf.

-----------------------------------------

Ecopetrol is the largest company in Colombia and one of the main integrated energy companies in the American continent, with more than 19,000 employees. In Colombia, it is responsible for more than 60% of the hydrocarbon production of most transportation, logistics, and hydrocarbon refining systems, and it holds leading positions in the petrochemicals and gas distribution segments. With the acquisition of 51.4% of ISA's shares, the company participates in energy transmission, the management of real-time systems (XM), and the Barranquilla - Cartagena coastal highway concession. At the international level, Ecopetrol has a stake in strategic basins in the American continent, with Drilling and Exploration operations in the United States (Permian basin and the Gulf of Mexico), Brazil, and, through ISA and its subsidiaries, Ecopetrol holds leading positions in the power transmission business in Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Bolivia, road concessions in Chile, and the telecommunications sector.

For more information, please contact:

Head of Capital Markets (a)

Lina Maria Contreras Mora

Email: [email protected]

Head of Corporate Communications

Marcela Ulloa

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Ecopetrol S.A.
CRN Spotlights the Top IT Channel Providers for Outstanding Performance and Growth

JERSEY CITY, N.J., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Effectual, an AWS Premier Tier Services Partner specializing in enterprise digital transformation, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company  , has named Effectual to the No. 44 spot on CRN's 2024 Fast Growth 150 list. With this list, CRN recognizes the fastest-growing and strongest-performing North American technology integrators, solution providers, and IT consultants.

Solution providers on the Fast Growth 150 have achieved significant sales growth over the previous two yearswith business acceleration driven by forward-thinking strategies and expert technology knowledge.

"From migration to modernization, enterprise organizations are creating efficiencies and empowering their teams to innovate with the effective use of cloud technologies," said Robb Allen, CEO of Effectual. "Our focus on AWS has positioned Effectual as a partner of choice to execute against complex business challenges and enable positive business outcomes. Achieving position No. 44 on CRN's 2024 Fast Growth 150 recognizes Effectual's reputation for excellence and realizing our vision for professional and managed services."

"Companies spotlighted on the 2024 Fast Growth 150 leveraged extensive technology expertise along with innovative business strategies to accelerate growth and stay ahead of the curve in the always-changing IT landscape," said Jennifer Follett, VP, U.S. Content, and Executive Editor, CRN, The Channel Company. "This achievement demonstrates an exemplary commitment to success, agility in the face of rapid industry change, and creative strategies that drive lasting results."

You can view the complete CRN 2024 Fast Growth 150 list online at www.crn.com/fastgrowth150.

About Effectual

Effectual is a trusted managed and professional services company working with commercial enterprises and the public sector to enable digital transformation and full-stack IT modernization. As an AWS Premier Consulting Partner, Effectual's experienced and passionate team focuses on enabling positive business outcomes through the effective use of cloud technology.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 40 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

 2024 The Channel Company, Inc. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

SOURCE Effectual Inc.
Electra and NASA are working together on advanced aviation technologies to bring clean, efficient, and affordable air travel to all communities

MANASSAS, Va., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra), a next-gen aerospace company committed to decarbonizing aviation and opening new air transportation markets, successfully demonstrated the flight capabilities of its EL-2 Goldfinch hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) technology demonstrator aircraft at NASA's historic Langley Research Center on Monday, July 15. The achievement marks the first flight of an electric aircraft with a pilot onboard at NASA Langley.

Electra and NASA are working together on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) research, demonstrations and information sharing under a NASA Space Act Agreement. In a separate effort, Electra is working under a NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project on solar-electric, high-altitude, long-endurance aircraft research called a "high-altitude platform station" or HAPS. Electra has also contributed to a NASA study on connecting communities into the national transportation network through Regional Air Mobility (RAM) using underutilized airports.

The flight demo for NASA Langley's research community showcased the eSTOL aircraft's use of distributed electric propulsion (DEP) with blown lift technology, which is capable of taking off and landing in under 150 feet. The demonstration highlighted the aircraft's hybrid-electric capabilities for longer range potential and battery-electric flight for quiet, community-friendly operations. Earlier that day, the aircraft completed the 120-mile cross-country flight from Electra's Manassas, VA facility to NASA in Hampton, VA using the hybrid propulsion system.

Electra is developing a 9-passenger eSTOL production aircraft designed to replace short- and medium-distance vehicle trips up to 500 miles with decarbonized, quiet and affordable air travel. This aircraft would be able to connect Northen Virginia to the Hampton Roads area in a quick 35-minute flight, rather than the 2.5 hours it takes to drive today.

"NASA is an incredible institution that has developed many of the foundational technologies underpinning today's aviation industry. They are now pioneering the future with advanced air mobility innovations," said JP Stewart, Electra's Vice President and General Manager. "We look forward to continuing our collaboration with them on new technologies that will extend seamless and convenient air travel to all communities."

About Electra

Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) is a next-gen aerospace company leading the way in sustainable urban and regional mobility. The company is building clean, hybrid-electric, short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) airplanes that fly people and cargo quieter, further, and more affordably. Electra's technology delivers 2.5x the payload and 10X longer range with 70% lower operating costs than vertical takeoff alternatives with far less certification risk. Electra's team includes some of the most respected and successful entrepreneurs and engineers in novel aircraft design, with over 40 prior aircraft successfully developed and/or certified. Its technology development is supported by Lockheed Martin Ventures, the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC), Statkraft Ventures, and other private investors in addition to contracts with NASA, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy.

Investors

Diana Siegel

[email protected]

Media

Barbara Zadina

[email protected]

SOURCE Electra.aero
MALVERN, Pa., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Endo, Inc. (OTCQX: NDOI) ("Endo" or the "Company") announced today that it will release its second quarter 2024 financial results on August 27, 2024, prior to market open. Members of Endo's senior management team will host a conference call and live webcast for investors at 8:00 a.m. ET.

To participate in the call, please dial 800-836-8184 (U.S. and Canada toll-free) or 646-357-8785 (outside the U.S.) or join the live webcast at this link. Please join 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

A replay of the webcast will be available within 24 hours at investor.endo.com.

About Endo

Endo is a diversified specialty pharmaceutical company boldly transforming insights into life-enhancing therapies. Our passionate team members collaborate to develop and deliver these essential medicines. Together, we are committed to helping everyone we serve live their best life. Learn more at www.endo.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.

SOURCE Endo, Inc.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ethema Health Corporation's (OTCPINK: GRST) ("Ethema" "GRST" or the "Company"), wholly owned subsidiary ARIA, received its license from the Department of Children and Family Services for its new facility at 899 Meadows Avenue, Boca Raton, Florida. The two floor facility will be licensed for 16 beds of Inpatient Detoxification and 16 Beds of Residential Level 1 after its probationary license period. The licenses were issued on Saturday August 3, 2024. During the licensing process, a number of unexpected delays caused an almost seventeen day delay beyond the date the Company expected to get the licenses. The Boca Raton facility opened on Tuesday August 6, 2024. The total bed count in Florida will now be 94 with 56 for Detox/Residential and 38 for PHP/IOP.

The Company has been managing Edgewater Recovery Center ("ERC") in Kentucky since July 15, 2024 and has been very successful in stabilizing the ERC operations. The Company is negotiating with the Owner of the Paducah, Kentucky facility to purchase that facility along with two other facilities under development in Paducah. These additional facilities would add another 60 beds to the ERC operations.

With the large amount of real estate involved in the Kentucky locations, and given the Company's various real estate ownership in the past, the Company is now considering setting up a separate Real Estate Fund which would be financed outside of the Company while still allowing the Company to share in the upside of the appreciating value and development potential of the real estate. The real estate would not be carried on the Company balance sheet and no investment would be made by the Company in the real estate. The Company would still manage the real estate and have a 50% interest in the appreciating value of the real estate over and above its acquisition cost.

The Company will be presenting at the 1640 Society annual gathering in Southampton, New York on Monday August 12, 2024. The Company expects to be able to announce the new Real Estate Fund structure and a new Preferred Stock offering for raising new equity for the Company.

Mr. Shawn Leon, Company CEO reported, "We are very fortunate to be able to present at the prestigious 1640 Society gathering in Southampton next week. The recent company developments should motivate the investment community to get involved and share in the fantastic growth we are going to see. Since the Kentucky deal blew away our growth target of 500 beds by the end of 2025 we have now reset our growth target to 3,000 beds by the end of 2027."

On August 6, 2024, Mr. Leon was interviewed by the Director of Research for www.savechangeworld.com, a website that specializes in recommending private and publicly traded medical and technology microcap companies. During the interview Mr. Leon discussed projections for Ethema's 2025 revenue and EBITDA. Also discussed, were the up-listing, the terms and conditions for a contemplated convertible preferred stock offering, and the institution of a cash dividend after up-listing.

Ethema Health Corporation (OTCPINK: GRST) operates in the behavioral healthcare space specifically the treatment of substance use disorders. Ethema developed a unique style of treatment over the last decade and has had much success with in-patient treatment for adults. Ethema will continue to develop world class programs and techniques for North America. For more information you can visit our website at www.ethemahealth.com .

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The information contained herein includes forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

For information please contact:

Ethema Health Corporation

[email protected]

Text to 416-500-0020

Twitter @healthethema

SOURCE Ethema Health Corporation
Eventus brings Validus solution to Brazil following a regulatory action that obliges brokers to take responsibility for monitoring their trade surveillance

NEW YORK and SAO PAULO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Eventus, the leading provider of comprehensive, at-scale trade surveillance and financial risk solutions, has partnered with ANCORD, Brazil's National Association of Securities, Foreign Exchange and Commodities Brokers and Dealers, to make Eventus' award-winning Validus platform available to members of ANCORD.

Through this initiative, ANCORD members will be able to quickly implement Validus as their trade surveillance solution and benefit from the ability to adapt Validus to their needs, with ready-to-use solutions as well as extensive automation and functionality for more complex use cases - all at a price that is exclusive to them.

The move follows actions taken earlier this year by BSM, the self-regulatory arm of the Brazilian stock exchange B3, to impose strict market operations monitoring guidelines, requiring all brokerages in Brazil to implement and manage their own trade surveillance system.

The BSM has required firms to independently monitor their own trading activity to detect regulatory infractions such as insider trading, wash trades, layering, spoofing, front running and more. In addition, Validus enables clients to adapt quickly to regulatory changes as they occur and to increasing volumes of data at times of unusual market activity.

Eventus CEO Travis Schwab said: "We're honored to work with ANCORD to extend the reach of Validus into Latin America and make the platform an essential tool for brokers in Brazil as it is for financial institutions throughout North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region. Brazil has long been focused on protecting investors and ensuring that firms prevent, detect and root out bad behavior. Our Validus platform is proven in many of the most demanding trading environments globally, and brokers in Brazil can now tap into our expertise and high-performance technology to not only meet regulatory requirements but bring significant efficiencies to their compliance programs."

With a client retention rate of close to 100%, Eventus has a wide range of clients, including Tier 1 banks, brokers, futures commission merchants (FCMs), proprietary trading firms, exchanges and other market venues, buy-side institutions, energy and commodities trading firms and regulators. Validus monitors stocks, options, futures, foreign exchange (FX), fixed income and digital assets.

Eventus has a large team of financial markets and regulatory affairs professionals who work closely with clients to solve their unique compliance challenges. The company offers coverage not only of the Brazilian markets, but of more than 100 other global markets and trading venues. With clients on six continents, Eventus has won more than 40 awards and honors worldwide over the past six years for its Validus platform and service.

About Eventus

Eventus provides state-of-the-art, at-scale trade surveillance software across all lines of defense. Its powerful, award-winning Validus platform is easy to deploy, customize and operate across equities, options, futures, foreign exchange (FX), fixed income and digital asset markets. Validus is proven in the most complex, high-volume, and real time environments of Eventus' rapidly growing client base, including tier-1 banks, broker-dealers, futures commission merchants (FCMs), proprietary trading groups, market centers, buy-side institutions, energy and commodity trading firms, and regulators. Clients rely on the platform, coupled with the firm's responsive support and product development, to overcome their most pressing trade surveillance regulatory challenges. For more, visit www.eventus.com .

SOURCE Eventus
SALT LAKE CITY, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Extra Space Storage Inc. ("Extra Space") (NYSE: EXR), a leading owner and operator of self-storage facilities in the United States and a member of the S&P 500, today announced that its operating partnership, Extra Space Storage LP (the "operating partnership"), has priced a public offering of $400 million aggregate principal amount of 5.350% senior notes due 2035 (the "Notes"). The Notes were priced at 99.973% of the principal amount and will mature on January 15, 2035. BofA Securities, PNC Capital Markets LLC, Truist Securities, BMO Capital Markets, J.P. Morgan, TD Securities, Wells Fargo Securities and US Bancorp are acting as the joint book-running managers for the offering. Regions Securities LLC, BOK Financial Securities, Inc., Citigroup, Huntington Capital Markets, Scotiabank, Zions Capital Markets, Fifth Third Securities, Academy Securities and Ramirez & Co., Inc. are acting as the co-managers for the offering. The offering is expected to close on or about August 12, 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The Notes will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Extra Space and certain of its subsidiaries.

The operating partnership intends to use the net proceeds from this offering to repay amounts outstanding from time to time under its lines of credit, and for other general corporate and working capital purposes, including funding potential acquisition opportunities.

The Notes will be issued pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor will there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale is not permitted. The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus, copies of which, when available, may be obtained from BofA Securities, Inc. NC1-022-02-25, 201 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28255-0001, Attn: Prospectus Department, email: [email protected], or by telephone: 1-800-294-1322; PNC Capital Markets LLC, 300 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, email: [email protected], or by telephone: 1-855-881-0697; or Truist Securities, Inc., Attn: Prospectus Department, 3333 Peachtree Road NE, 9th floor, Atlanta, GA 30326, email: [email protected], or by telephone: 1-800-685-4786.

A prospectus supplement related to the offering will also be available free of charge on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.

About Extra Space Storage Inc.:

Extra Space Storage Inc., headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust and a member of the S&P 500. As of June 30, 2024, the Company owned and/or operated 3,812 self-storage stores in 42 states and Washington, D.C. The Company's stores comprise approximately 2.6 million units and approximately 292.1 million square feet of rentable space operating under the Extra Space, Life Storage and Storage Express brands. The Company offers customers a wide selection of conveniently located and secure storage units across the country, including boat storage, RV storage and business storage. It is the largest operator of self-storage properties in the United States.

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain information set forth in this release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning the terms, timing and completion of the offering of securities by Extra Space and the operating partnership, including the anticipated use of proceeds therefrom. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "believes," "estimates," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "anticipates," or "intends," or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy. All forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions. Our expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them, but there can be no assurance that management's expectations, beliefs and projections will result or be achieved. There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in or contemplated by this release. Such risks and uncertainties include without limitation those associated with market risks and uncertainties and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions for an offering of securities, as well as the risks referenced in the "Risk Factors" section included in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. All forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this release. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements which may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

SOURCE Extra Space Storage Inc.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the threat of frequent travel disruptions and an extremely active hurricane season , travel is still up by over 8% this fall, according to Squaremouth.com, the nation's leading travel insurance marketplace.

Analyzing traveler spending data from thousands of travel insurance policies purchased for trips this fall, Squaremouth reveals the top autumn travel and spending trends of 2024.

Trip Costs Are Up Over 30%

The cost of travel has continued to rise throughout 2024 , and this fall is no exception. Average fall trip costs have gone up over 36% in a single year from $5,907 in 2023, to a staggering $8,056 this fall.

Americans Are Flocking to Italy

For the first time in over a decade, Italy is the most popular fall destination for Squaremouth users, surpassing the US and Mexico. Over 12% of American travelers are opting to travel to Italy this year, compared to only 8% last fall.

Other Notable Stats:

Of the top 10 fall destinations, Mexico has the lowest average trip cost of $3,526 , while Japan has the highest average trip cost at over $9,000 , more than double that of Mexico.

has the lowest average trip cost of , while has the highest average trip cost at over , more than double that of Mexico. This fall marks the first time Portugal has made it to the list of top 10 destinations.

Top 10 2024 Fall Destinations:

Destination % of Travelers Average Trip Cost Italy 12.10 % $8,029 United States 10.43 % $4,908 Mexico 5.71 % $3,526 Great Britain 4.90 % $5,939 Spain 4.32 % $6,778 France 4.17 % $7,176 Canada 3.99 % $6,415 Greece 3.82 % $8,595 Japan 3.16 % $9,004 Portugal 3.02 % $7,134

Boomers Take the Most Trips

While travel is up overall, Boomers are leading the travel game this fall, making up nearly half of all travelers at 47%, up from 34% last year.

Notable Stats:

Gen Z makes up the smallest percentage of travelers this fall at 9%, down over 18% from last year.

The Silent generation has made the biggest leap in the number of travelers this fall, up 44% from last year.

Generation % of Travelers 2024 2023 % Change YOY Boomers 47 % 34 % +38 % Gen X 17 % 25 % -32 % Millennial 14 % 21 % -33 % Silent 13 % 9 % +44 % Gen Z 9 % 11 % -18 %

Methodology: Squaremouth identified trends amongst travel insurance policy sales purchased with travel dates between 9/22/24  12/20/24.

About Squaremouth: Squaremouth.com has insured over 3 million travelers. Using Squaremouth's intuitive quoting and comparison engine, award-winning support team, and veried customer reviews, travelers can save time and money to nd the best travel insurance policy for their trip.

Available Topic Expert: Jenna Hummer is available for comment and interview. [email protected]

CONTACT:

Kylie Morgan

[email protected]

SOURCE Squaremouth
MEXICO CITY, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FIBRA Prologis (BMV: FIBRAPL 14), a leading owner and operator of Class A industrial real estate in Mexico, has acquired a significant majority of Terrafina's CBFIs, representing 77.14% of the outstanding certificates. This move further solidifies FIBRA Prologis' position as a leading player in Mexico's industrial real estate sector.

"We are delighted to have secured control of Terrafina with more than three-quarters of shareholders supporting FIBRA Prologis' tender. This is a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to the Mexican industrial real estate market," said Hector Ibarzabal, CEO of FIBRA Prologis. "With our extensive market experience and robust portfolio, we are well-positioned to drive sustained value and growth for both Terrafina and FIBRA Prologis investors."

Terrafina manages approximately 42.2 million square feet of industrial real estate across several key markets, which includes 288 industrial warehouses and 4 land bank properties. As of June 30, 2024, FIBRA Prologis owned 236 logistics and manufacturing facilities in six industrial markets in Mexico totaling 46.9 million square feet (4.4 million square meters) of gross leasable area.

The acquisition reinforces FIBRA Prologis' substantial presence in Mexico, where it is one of the largest industrial real estate companies. The company is poised to expand its investment in high-quality industrial assets, reflecting its confidence in its long-term growth potential.

"The successful outcome of this tender offer is a testament to the confidence that Terrafina CBFI holders have in our strategic direction and operational expertise," said Armando Fregoso, President, Prologis Latin America. "As we integrate these high-quality assets over time, we remain committed to leveraging our leading operational capabilities to maximize opportunities in Mexico's dynamic industrial real estate market."

ABOUT FIBRA PROLOGIS

FIBRA Prologis is a leading owner and operator of Class-A industrial real estate in Mexico. As of June 30, 2024, FIBRA Prologis was comprised of 236 logistics and manufacturing facilities in six industrial markets in Mexico totaling 46.9 million square feet (4.4 million square meters) of gross leasable area.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The statements in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, intents, estimates and projections about the industry and markets in which FIBRA Prologis operates, management's beliefs and assumptions made by management. Such statements involve uncertainties that could significantly impact results. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "will," "believes," "potential," "estimates," "should" and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, which generally are not historical in nature. All statements that address the terms of the tender offer, the success of closing the tender offer, the expected benefits of the proposed business combination, the potential disadvantages of not participating in the Offer or events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Although we believe the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained and therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may affect outcomes and results include, but are not limited to: (i) competing bids for the acquisition of Terrafina, (ii) varying interpretations of regulations by governing authorities, (iii) national, international, regional and local economic climates, (iv) changes in financial markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, (v) increased or unanticipated competition for our properties, (vi) risks associated with acquisitions, dispositions and development of properties, (vii) maintenance of real estate investment trust (FIBRA) status and tax structuring, (viii) availability of financing and capital, the levels of debt that we maintain and our credit ratings, (ix) risks related to our investments, (x) risks related to the coronavirus pandemic, (xi) inability to adjust, revise or amend FIBRA Prologis's fee structure; and (xii) those additional factors discussed in Tender Offer Prospectus and reports filed with the "Comision Nacional Bancaria y de Valores" and the Mexican Stock Exchange by FIBRA Prologis under the heading "Risk Factors." FIBRA Prologis undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements appearing in this release.

SOURCE FIBRA Prologis
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FileForms, a pioneer in Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting solutions and Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) compliance technology, is proud to announce its achieved SOC2 Type I compliance. This milestone underscores FileForms' commitment to supporting businesses registered in the United States and their advisors in filing BOI reports securely and efficiently as filing deadlines quickly approach for over 32.6 million businesses across the nation.

Compliance and meticulous documentation are paramount in the BOI reporting process, which necessitates the disclosure of copies of government IDs and other personally identifiable information (PII). FileForms now enhances the reporting process by leveraging cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies along with SOC2 compliance to efficiently and securely aggregate and store client data while facilitating reporting directly with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

Our latest encrypted ID upload method, designed with ease of use and security in mind, enables users to use their smartphone to take a photo of their ID and automatically input the data on their ID into their FileForms Beneficial Owner profile without any manual input. This AI and ML-enhanced feature saves the user time while verifying their address in real time. Given the nature of this highly sensitive information, FileForms has taken another leap forward by attaining SOC2 compliance to ensure privacy and security for its clients and partners who will need to maintain this data set for any change of information refiling with FinCEN.

"Achieving SOC2 Type 1 compliance is one of the many ways we demonstrate our commitment to maintaining high-security standards and data protection. Based on consistent feedback from our clients and partners, we believe we have the most optimized and customizable BOI filing experience in the market and will continue to innovate to make BOI reporting and CTA compliance as easy and secure as it can be," said Frank Tumminello, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder at FileForms. "Our newest features significantly enhance ease of use with cutting-edge AI and ML methodologies targeting a remarkable filing experience for our valued clients and partners."

These advancements align with nearly two years of dedicated BOI reporting technology development and come as FileForms approaches the annual anniversary of its product launch in September 2023. With most businesses still needing to file by the end of 2024, FileForms helps business owners and their advisors navigate the reporting process efficiently and at scale, saving time and reducing errors that could lead to costly government penalties of up to $10,000 per company.

To further ensure security and privacy, FileForms integrates directly with FinCEN, the federal agency enforcing the reporting requirements on legal entities across the nation. FinCEN's goal is to build a private database to regulate and deter financial crimes. The information provided on BOI reports will be compiled in the government database, which will have limited access to government agencies and select financial institutions.

"As FileForms continues to expand its distribution network, which now represents several million businesses and includes accountants, attorneys, associations, family offices, real estate, and investment professionals, our aim is to innovate and integrate with more platforms and databases to drive an absolutely seamless and secure reporting process," said Tumminello. FileForms believes this strategy ensures its platform will remain at the forefront of potential changes impacting clients' sensitive information while securely providing it to federal and state regulators in a timely manner.

Awareness is crucial as this new law impacts 32.6 million businesses, the vast majority of which have yet to learn about the CTA and likely are unfamiliar with FinCEN, which aims to receive BOI reports from all these entities by the end of the year. The agency continues to do its best to spread awareness through in-person roadshows and online events. Despite these efforts, only three million businesses have filed this year, and business advisors will need to play a serious role in spreading education to help their clients avoid government penalties and provide solutions for BOI reporting.

FileForms is designed by accounting, legal, and financial professionals to serve the diverse communities of businesses and advisors who need to achieve CTA compliance.

Small Business Owners: Get started today with your BOI report and be compliant in less than 10 minutes!

CPAs, Law Firms, and Professional Entity Managers: Learn more about FileFormsPRO to facilitate bulk filings and more!

Become a Referral Partner for no upfront cost!

Take our free BOI Quiz to see if you need to file!

Learn more at our upcoming webinar  sign up here!

For more information, please visit www.fileforms.com or contact [email protected].

About FileForms

FileForms is at the forefront of CTA compliance technology, offering innovative solutions to help businesses and their advisors meet regulatory requirements efficiently and securely. To learn more about pricing click here.

Media Contact:

Ian Quinlan

Client Director  Sales and Services

1-888-515-3453

[email protected]

www.fileforms.com

SOURCE FileForms
Rise in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, which are intermittent in nature, drives the need for effective energy storage solutions. FES systems store and release energy quickly, balancing supply and demand. Effective energy storage solutions such as FES have the ability to reduce the reliance on fossil fuel-based backup power plants, which are typically used to balance supply and demand. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes a cleaner energy grid.

WILMINGTON, Del. , Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Flywheel Energy Storage Systems Market by Component (Flywheel Rotor, Motor-Generator, Magnetic Bearings, and Others), and Application (Uninterrupted Power Supply, Distributed Energy Generation, Transport, Data Centers, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis And Industry Forecast, 2023-2033". The global flywheel energy storage systems market was valued at $353 million in 2023 and is estimated to reach $744.3 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.8% from 2024 to 2033.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/A70218

Prime determinants of growth

Supportive government policies and incentives aimed at promoting renewable energy and energy storage solutions are driving the adoption of FES systems. These policies often include subsidies, tax benefits, and funding for research and development. However, the upfront costs for installing FES systems can be high due to the specialized materials and technology required. This can be a barrier for adoption, especially for smaller projects or in developing regions. Nevertheless, as the penetration of renewable energy increases globally, there is a significant opportunity for FES systems to be integrated with renewable energy projects, providing necessary storage and stability.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20242033 Base Year 2023 Market Size in 2023 $353 Million Market Size in 2033 $744.3 Million CAGR 7.8 % No. of Pages in Report 250 Segments Covered Component, Application, and Region Drivers  Increase in Demand for Energy Storage  Government Policies and Incentives Opportunities  Integration with Renewable Energy Restraint  High Initial Costs



Earthmoving equipment segment is expected to lead during the forecast period

The flywheel rotor stands out as the major segment in the flywheel energy storage systems market as it is the core component responsible for storing kinetic energy. As it spins, it converts and retains energy, which can later be released to generate electricity. This critical function makes the rotor indispensable in FES systems. As the critical component where the energy is stored and retrieved, advancements in the flywheel rotor technology are pivotal to the overall success and adoption of FES systems.

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Uninterrupted power supply segment is expected to exhibit fastest growth during the forecast period

Uninterrupted power supply (UPS) applications are critical in nature, requiring absolute reliability and rapid response times. FES systems excel in these areas, providing immediate power delivery during outages or power quality issues. Industries such as healthcare, military, finance, and data centers all require robust UPS systems. The high power density and quick discharge capabilities of FES systems make them ideal for these demanding applications.

Moreover, the rapid expansion of data centers globally, driven by increase in cloud computing and digital services, further solidifies the demand for reliable UPS solutions. FES systems are increasingly being adopted in data centers to ensure continuous operation and power quality.

Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2033

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing significant urbanization and industrial growth, leading to increase in demand for stable and reliable power supplies. FES systems are expected to play a critical role in providing this stability. Countries such as China, India, Japan, and Australia are investing heavily in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. The intermittent nature of these sources necessitates effective energy storage solutions, with FES systems being a viable option.

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Players: -

Langley Holdings plc

Amber Kinetics, Inc.

Stornetic GmbH

Energiestro

VYCON

Beacon Power Systems

Kinetic Traction Systems, Inc.

Langley Holdings plc

Tesla

ABB Ltd.

Recent Industry Advancement:

Flywheel energy storage systems are being integrated into electric vehicle (EV) powertrains to enhance battery life and performance. By capturing and storing kinetic energy during regenerative braking, flywheel systems reduce the load on the EV battery, leading to fewer charge-discharge cycles and slower degradation. This integration helps in managing energy fluctuations and provides additional power during high-demand situations, thus improving the reliability and reducing the maintenance costs of EVs.

Modern flywheel rotors are increasingly being constructed from advanced composite materials. These composites, which can include carbon fiber, allow for higher rotational speeds (up to 60, 000 RPM) compared to traditional steel flywheels. This results in greater energy storage capacity and improved safety, as composite materials are designed to contain fragments in case of failure.

The use of active magnetic bearings in flywheel systems is a significant advancement. These bearings minimize friction and wear, allowing for higher efficiency and longer operational life. They also enable precise control of the rotor's position, which enhances the overall stability and performance of the system.

Companies such as Thien eDrives have developed loss-optimized synchronous reluctance motors for flywheel applications. These motors achieve high efficiency without requiring magnets or rare earth materials, making them more sustainable and cost-effective. However, they do consume some energy to maintain the charge, resulting in a gradual discharge over time, making them suitable for short-term energy storage solutions.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global flywheel energy storage systems 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.

Report Review:

Advancements in flywheel technologies are playing a pivotal role in driving the growth of the flywheel energy storage (FES) systems market. These technological developments enhance the efficiency, performance, and versatility of flywheel-based energy storage solutions, making them increasingly attractive for a wide range of applications in the evolving energy landscape. Notably, advancements in magnetic bearings and vacuum encasement technologies have significantly reduced friction and energy losses within flywheel systems. By minimizing these losses, the efficiency of energy storage and retrieval processes is improved, making flywheel systems more competitive compared to other energy storage technologies.

The rising global demand for electricity, coupled with the need for grid stability, renewable energy integration, and reliable backup power solutions, is accelerating the adoption of flywheel energy storage systems across diverse sectors, thus fueling market expansion. For instance, India ranks as the world's third-largest producer and consumer of electricity, with an installed power capacity of 429.96 GW as of January 31, 2024. In the same year, India's installed renewable energy capacity, including hydro, reached 182.05 GW, constituting 42.3% of the total installed power capacity. Solar energy accounted for 72.31 GW, followed by wind power at 44.95 GW, biomass at 10.26 GW, small hydropower at 4.99 GW, waste-to-energy at 0.58 GW, and hydropower at 46.93 GW. During the fiscal year 2022-2023, non-hydro renewable energy capacity increased by 15.27 GW, marking significant growth in India's power generation sector, with a 6.80% increase in power generation to 1, 452.43 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) by January 2024.

China also reported substantial electricity generation growth, with a 2.2% increase per annum to 8, 388.6 TWh in 2022. The country's thermal production of electricity, which includes coal and natural gas, rose 0.9% to 5, 853.1 TWh, accounting for over 70% of total generation. This growing electricity demand underscores the importance of efficient and reliable energy storage solutions like flywheels.

However, the high upfront capital investment for FES systems can be a barrier, particularly when compared to other energy storage technologies like lithium-ion batteries. The costs associated with advanced materials, precision engineering, and installation can be prohibitive for some users, especially for smaller-scale applications. Additionally, flywheels generally have lower energy densities (20-80 Wh/kg) compared to chemical batteries (150-250 Wh/kg), making them less suitable for long-duration energy storage and better suited for short-term, high-power applications. These factors can hamper market growth.

Nevertheless, technological advancements in flywheel design are creating significant opportunities in the FES market. Innovations in magnetic bearings and control systems reduce friction, enhance efficiency, and allow for longer spin times. Combined with sophisticated control algorithms, these developments improve the precision and stability of flywheels, making them more reliable for various grid support functions, such as frequency regulation and energy smoothing. These factors are anticipated to offer new growth opportunities for the flywheel energy storage (FES) systems market during the forecast period.

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This collaboration empowers kids in the U.S. to learn how to spend responsibly while giving parents peace of mind in the digital-first economy

IRVINE, Calif. and NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, GoHenry by Acorns , a debit card and financial education app designed for 6-18 year olds, has announced a collaboration with Google Wallet to integrate GoHenry into the new Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch for kids in the U.S. The collaboration advances Google's Tap to Pay capabilities in its Fitbit Ace LTE devices and enables kids under 13 years old to use a smartwatch to spend their own money safely and responsibly in the digital world. GoHenry will be featured as a card issuer within the device wallet, making it easy for parents to empower their kids with the independence that a wearable payment device can offer.

GoHenry by Acorns teams up with Google Wallet for new Fitbit Ace LTE integration, empowering kids in the U.S. to learn how to spend responsibly while giving parents peace of mind in the digital-first economy. Credit/Source: GoHenry by Acorns

Designed for kids ages 7-12, the Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch and Fitbit Ace Pass1 provides the benefits of a smartphonesuch as a digital wallet, daily rewards for reaching movement goals, and secure calling, messaging and location sharingwithout the smartphone.2 Combining the device's secure Tap to Pay feature and GoHenry's offerings, parents can have peace of mind as they help kids learn how to manage money.

How it works:

A parent downloads the GoHenry by Acorns app, signs up, and activates their child's new GoHenry debit card. A parent activates Tap to Pay on the Fitbit Ace LTE by adding their child's GoHenry card to Google Wallet through the Fitbit Ace app3. Once connected, a parent can seamlessly use the GoHenry by Acorns app to add money to the debit card, set spending limits, decide where the card can be used, and more. The child can then use the Fitbit Ace LTE to Tap to Pay with the money on their GoHenry cardand grow their money management skills with GoHenry along the way.

"GoHenry empowers kids growing up in a digital world to learn about and use money in a safe environment," said Acorn's CEO, Noah Kerner. "Our collaboration with Google Wallet brings this to life on a wearable payment device, embodying our mission to make every kid smart with money and providing parents with more tools to nurture healthy habits in their kids."

With GoHenry, parents can set up automated allowance, make instant transfers, select spending limits, and set chores for kids to earn through the app. Kids and teens can set savings goals, keep an eye on their budgets in real-time, and give spare change to charity while learning core money skills through Money Missionsin-app, expert-led, bite-sized lessons, interactive quizzes, and videos.

"We're excited to collaborate with GoHenry to bring tap to pay capabilities to the Fitbit Ace LTE, giving parents a valuable tool to instill responsible spending habits and help kids gain confidence while they learn important money skills," said Ben Greenwood, Fitbit Ace LTE Product Lead.

As an incentive, parents who sign their child up for GoHenry beginning August 7 will receive $20 toward their child's allowance for free, along with one free month of a GoHenry subscription.

This collaboration comes on the heels of Acorns' acquisition of GoHenrynow called GoHenry by Acorns, in the U.S.---in 2023. The acquisition advanced Acorns' commitment to deliver financial wellness for the whole familyproviding kids and adults alike with the responsible tools of money management and financial education. Acorns is a leading saving and investing app that makes it easy for everyday people, across life's many stages, to save and invest for their future. Through Acorns, customers have invested over $20,000,000,000, much of it in spare change. UK-founded GoHenry is a global leader in money management and financial education for 6-18-year-olds with a mission to make every kid smart with money. Together, Acorns, GoHenry and Pixpay serve nearly 6 million subscribers across five countries.

FOR MEDIA: High-res Images Available HERE.

About GoHenry by Acorns

Launched in 2012, GoHenry is a financial technology company with a simple mission to make every kid smart with money. The GoHenry debit card and financial education app is designed for kids aged 6 - 18. Parent and child apps provide tools to help kids learn about money by earning, saving, spending responsibly, giving, and more, all with parental oversight. In-app Money Missions offer a gamified, integrated financial education experience that provides a rewarding and fun way for kids to build financial literacy.

In 2023, GoHenry teamed up with Acorns to deliver financial wellness to the whole family. For more information, visit GoHenry.com or follow @gohenry on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

In the U.S. the GoHenry card is issued by Community Federal Savings Bank, member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International.

Press Contact: [email protected]

1 Fitbit Ace Pass is a paid data plan that is required to access most features.

2 Calling, messaging, and location sharing are dependent upon network connectivity and other factors and may not be reliable for emergency communications or available in all areas. Ace Pass data plan required. Airplane mode disables calling, messaging and location sharing. Device is not capable of calling emergency services, another Fitbit Ace LTE device, or a phone without the Fitbit Ace app installed. Location sharing is available only for users with a supervised Google Account.

3 Fitbit Ace app works with most phones running Android 11.0 or newer or iOS 15 or newer.

SOURCE Acorns
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- GrubMarket, a leading tech-enabled food eCommerce company and a pioneer in Enterprise AI solutions for America's food supply chain industry, today announced it has completed the acquisition of Oakland, CA-based Good Eggs, a leading online grocery service renowned for its steadfast commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and high-quality food. This strategic acquisition marks a key milestone for GrubMarket, as it strengthens its eCommerce capabilities with a category leader that has a strong and visible brand presence, particularly across its major service regions in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles.

Good Eggs Logo

Founded in the summer of 2011 in San Francisco, Good Eggs has built a reputation for delivering high-quality groceries and meals, sourced from California's top organic farmers, makers, and producers. Operating out of a warehouse facility that spans over 125,000+ square feet in space, the company offers over 7,000 products ranging from fresh produce, dairy products, eggs, meat, seafood, and pantry staples, to prepared meals and artisanal goods. The team ensures that every item sold meets rigorous criteria for quality and environmental responsibility.

Good Eggs stands out in the crowded grocery retail market with its dedication to transparency and direct support for local agriculture. By maintaining close relationships with local farmers and producers, Good Eggs ensures that customers receive the freshest and most sustainably grown food available. This approach not only supports the local economy but also reduces the environmental impact associated with complex and fragmented supply chains. More than 70% of its products are sourced within 250 miles of distribution.

Good Eggs' proven business model delivers best-in-class unit economics through a seamless online shopping experience and the company's expertise in logistics. Its innovative supply chain practices allow it to maintain a spoilage rate significantly lower than industry benchmarks, ensuring peak-quality product freshness for customers.

Good Eggs' CEO, Rodrigo Arevalo, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, "Joining GrubMarket is an exciting new chapter for Good Eggs. Our mission has always been to create a better food system by connecting people with the highest quality, sustainably sourced food. With GrubMarket's robust technological capabilities, expansive global supply network, and incomparable operational expertise, we are poised to amplify our impact and reach more households who share our values."

The acquisition of Good Eggs aligns with GrubMarket's strategy to expand its footprint in the consumer market while leveraging its technological prowess to drive operational efficiencies and enhance the customer experience. GrubMarket's CEO, Mike Xu, says: "Good Eggs has built an impressive brand with a loyal customer base that values sustainability and quality. We see tremendous potential in combining our extensive network and resources to further scale Good Eggs' operations. At GrubMarket, we, too, believe in using our success to support local farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Good Eggs' commitment to these principles makes them an ideal partner for us. Together, we will continue to promote a more resilient and human-centered food system. This acquisition allows us to diversify our product offerings, reach more sustainability-minded consumers who value quality, and strengthen our position as one of the fastest growing and most impactful companies in the food supply chain industry."

As part of GrubMarket's portfolio, Good Eggs will enjoy the advantages offered by GrubMarket's suite of proprietary technology solutions, which includes WholesaleWare, an AI-powered ERP software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that provides food industry wholesalers, distributors, and shippers with seamless financial management, powerful sales support, online ordering, precise inventory management, lot traceability, grower accounting, and automated routing and logistics; GrubAssist, the groundbreaking enterprise AI assistant that empowers food supply chain businesses with deep insights, intelligent analysis, and automated order processing; and GrubPay, a digital payments offering designed specifically for the food supply chain industry.

About GrubMarket

GrubMarket is the AI-powered technology enabler and digital transformer of the American food supply chain industry, as well as one of the largest private food tech companies globally. As the enterprise AI solutions provider for the American food supply chain, a first mover in the tech-enabled B2B food eCommerce space, and a pioneer offering cutting-edge, AI-powered software-as-a-service solutions, GrubMarket uses technology to fundamentally transform the American and global food supply chain. GrubMarket has also been named to the prestigious CNBC Disruptor 50 list for two consecutive years. GrubMarket operates in all 50 U.S. States and has a global presence in Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Egypt, India, Mexico, South Africa, and Spain, with plans to expand further across the U.S., Canada, South America, Europe, Africa, and other parts of the world.

For Media Inquiries:

GrubMarket Media Team

[email protected]

(415) 986-0523

SOURCE GrubMarket
An Army lieutenant colonel from the U.S. militarys premier Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) command inspired a new group of Army UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter mechanics to reach for new heights.

Lt. Col. Cameron A. Wright, the Knowledge Management officer for the 20th CBRNE Command, was the guest speaker at the 128th Aviation Brigade graduation ceremony on Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., July 3.

From 19 bases in 16 states, soldiers and Army civilians from the 20th CBRNE Command take on the worlds dangerous hazards in support of joint, interagency and multinational operations.

As the Knowledge Management officer, Wright drives innovation and knowledge sharing in the command that is home to 75 percent of the active-duty U.S. Armys Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) specialists and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians, as well as the 1st Area Medical Laboratory, CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity, three Weapons of Mass Destruction Coordination Teams and three Nuclear Disablement Teams (Infrastructure).

A seasoned U.S. Army Signal Corps officer who has served around the world and deployed to Afghanistan and Kuwait, Wright spoke to the soldiers who were graduating from the 15-week Army aviation maintenance training course.

This moment marks not just the completion of a rigorous training program but the beginning of a journey that will shape you into the leaders, experts and role models our Army and our nation need, said Wright.

A graduate of Montana State University and the University of Maryland, Wright focused on the importance of leadership to success in the U.S. military.

Leadership is about more than giving orders; it is about earning the respect and trust of those you lead through your actions and your integrity, said Wright. Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.

Wright also focused on the importance of increasing technical skills and living the Army values.

Live by the Army values that define us as Soldiers and as a force for good in the world, said Wright. Remember that you are part of a proud tradition of service and sacrifice and that your actions will leave a lasting impact on those who follow in your footsteps.

Congratulations on this remarkable achievement, said Wright. Stand tall, move forward with purpose and continue to make us all proud. The future of our Army looks bright because of soldiers like you.
HANGZHOU, China, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On June 30, 2024, the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link was officially inaugurated, establishing a vital connection between Shenzhen, Zhongshan, and Guangzhou. This monumental project is renowned for being one of the most complex cross-sea channel constructions globally.

Smart inspection robots working in the undersea tunnel

Zhejiang Guozi Robotics Co., Ltd ("Guozi Robotics"), a pioneer in mobile robotics, played a pivotal role by providing an advanced smart maintenance solution tailored for the undersea tunnel. Leveraging leading-edge robotics technology and extensive project expertise, the company designed and deployed 14 specialized intelligent inspection robots to ensure ongoing, efficient maintenance and the safety of this critical infrastructure.

The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link engineering solution has significant milestone implications for Guozi Robotics' highway robot inspection system applications:

Achieved over 20 kilometers of robot usage in a single highway project. Set a record for the highest number of inspection robots used in a single project. Reached a robot speed of up to 8 meters per second, enabling swift emergency responses. Adopted battery and sliding contact line automatic power supply technology to ensure continuous operation at high speeds.

Daily Routine of Inspection Robots

Every day, Guozi Robotics' intelligent inspection robots diligently patrol the undersea tunnel of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link. Observers in the tunnel could see the robots moving along the ceiling, monitoring the structural integrity and safety of the environment.

Operational Insights:

Strategic Placement: Robots are stationed every 1.2 kilometers within the southern and northern traffic tunnels, maintaining constant surveillance.

Emergency Response: They can swiftly reach any site within three minutes in emergency situations, equipped with capabilities like gas detection, voice communication, and infrared high-definition recognition.

Comprehensive Monitoring: In the central utility corridor, the robots conduct thorough, real-time inspections to identify and mitigate potential risks, ensuring the safety and functionality of all equipment.

Centralized Control: All robots are linked to the tunnel network dispatching center, which coordinates their activities through a centralized management platform for optimized scheduling and rapid response.

Guozi Robotics has specialized in the mobile robotics industry for many years, amassing extensive technical data and practical experience. Looking ahead, we remain committed to our original mission: using robotic technology to support the realization of more "super projects".

About Guozi Robotics:

Guozi Robotics focuses on developing and implementing core technologies in mobile robotics. Our diverse product lineup, which features intelligent inspection and logistics solutions, distinguishes us as an industry leader.

SOURCE Zhejiang Guozi Robotics Co., Ltd
70 Percent of Workers Say They Haven't Been Asked for Input on Work Arrangement Flexibility

Most Employees Say Remote Work Improves Corporate Culture

ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fifty percent of U.S. workers indicate that they prefer working for an organization the provides flexibility when it comes to remote and hybrid work according to a new nationwide poll from Eagle Hill Consulting. Additionally, half of workers (50 percent) say they would consider looking for a new job should their employer reduce remote and hybrid work flexibility, highest among GenZ workers (61 percent).

Only 30 percent of workers say their employer has solicited their input on what remote and hybrid work flexibility they would prefer, while 67 percent say remote work improves corporate culture. Workers say their top concerns about more in-person work include work-life balance (48 percent), commute time (41 percent), increased costs (36 percent), stress (33 percent), and their happiness (26 percent).

This research comes as many employers continue to increase in-person work, while other organizations are leveraging flexible work arrangements to recruit and retain workers in a continued tight labor market.

Read the research infographic, "Employees Weigh In On Workplace Flexibility: 2024," detailing the research findings.

"Employers are wise to tread carefully when making changes to their remote and hybrid work policies," said Melissa Jezior, president and chief executive officer of Eagle Hill Consulting. "While in-person work has benefits, reducing the flexibility that many workers crave could backfire in terms of employee retention, morale, and company culture. It's important for employers to understand that workers do see the value of in-person work, but they view some tasks as better performed remotely and they don't want mandates."

"One troubling finding is that the vast majority of workers say they haven't been asked about their preferences regarding remote work. Gauging worker sentiment is a necessary step employers should take to make informed policy decisions. While employee preferences don't drive all business decisions, not understanding worker views is never a good approach," Jezior said.

The nationwide survey of U.S. workers also finds that employees see the value of in-person work. A large share of workers (56 percent) say those who work more in the office than remotely are more likely to be successful in their jobs. Eighty-five percent of workers say team building is managed better in person, as is integrating new team members (84 percent), training and managing teams (78 percent), onboarding (74 percent), kicking off a new project (76 percent), getting a project back on track (74 percent), performance discussions (68 percent), meetings (65 percent), giving and receiving feedback (63 percent), brainstorming (62 percent), and IT support (54 percent).

The research also finds:

Employees say the benefits of returning to the workplace would include increased socialization (46 percent), the ability to leave work at work (35 percent), improved collaboration (33 percent), and more productivity (32 percent).





Workers are split on employers tracking their attendance to ensure compliance with company remote work policies. Fifty-one percent want their attendance tracked, while 49 percent don't.





Thirty-four percent of workers are willing to sacrifice a dedicated workspace in exchange for more remote work. Only 17 percent would sacrifice pay for increased remote work.





Seventy-one percent of employees say someone they work with directly makes their remote work flexibility decisions.

The findings are based upon the 2024 Eagle Hill Consulting Workplace Flexibility Survey conducted by Ipsos most recently from June 4-7, 2024. The survey included 1,453 respondents from a random sample of employees across the U.S. Respondents were polled about their views about working remotely.

Eagle Hill Consulting LLC is a woman-owned business that provides unconventional management consulting services in the areas of Strategy, Performance, Talent, and Change. The company's expertise in delivering innovative solutions to unique challenges spans across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. A leading authority on employee sentiment, Eagle Hill is headquartered in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, with employees across the U.S. and offices in Boston and Seattle. More information is available at www.eaglehillconsulting.com.

SOURCE Eagle Hill Consulting LLC
Created to level the playing field in college admissions, Apply Genius uses artificial intelligence to guide students and parents into their dream college  for just $10 per month

WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With college admissions more competitive than ever, a team of Harvard and Johns Hopkins graduates has created a new online consultant that uses artificial intelligence to help high school students get accepted into their dream colleges  for just $10 per month.

Called Apply Genius, the AI app is designed to level the playing field for students and parents who can't afford to spend thousands  or tens of thousands  of dollars on a live college admissions consultant.

Apply Genius Co-Founders Michael Pankowski, Anthony Colarusso, and Sean Sebastian Darcy presenting to students at the Future Business Leaders of America National Leadership Conference in June.

"Apply Genius answers any question you have about college admissions, personalized for you, giving you access to the same admissions secrets that the wealthiest applicants pay $10,000 or more for," said Michael Pankowski, a Harvard graduate and co-founder of Apply Genius. "This tool is democratizing college admissions consulting, making it affordable for all."

Available on the Apple App store, Apply Genius allows users to start for free and costs only $9.99 per month for unlimited access, answering any college admissions questions one has. And the Apply Genius team offers a quality guarantee: If there's any answer that's not to a user's satisfaction, the Apply Genius team will personally answer that question by email.

As college admissions rates have plummeted (Harvard accepted only 3.6% of applicants this year), the admissions process has grown increasingly confusing and nerve-wracking. A recent nationwide survey found that over 60% of students are overwhelmed by college admissions advice, and 76% of students feel high stress levels throughout the application process.

"Until now, only the wealthiest students and parents could afford to pay for someone to guide them through this complicated and stressful process," said Anthony Colarusso, a Harvard graduate and co-founder of Apply Genius. "Our app changes this, offering deeply personalized advice at a highly affordable price."

Using a combination of proprietary research and top-quality insights, Apply Genius is designed for both students and parents. The state-of-the-art app is incredibly easy to use and features:

A Student Profile that takes in over 30 unique data points to personalize every answer for each student's circumstances and admissions goals.

An Open Chat feature where students can ask any college admissions question and get instant, personalized, expert advice at any time.

A Guided Chat feature where students can ask questions from the 100+ question Prompting Guide, packed with the most important college admissions questions, and get a personalized answer.

A Chat History where users can revisit their saved chats, so they never forget the crucial college admissions advice they've received.

"To earn admittance to their top college, students need to stand out from the crowd. Apply Genius helps students do just that," said Sean Sebastian Darcy, a Johns Hopkins graduate and co-founder of Apply Genius.

Apply Genius helps students overcome the numerous challenges they face navigating the college admissions process. Among them:

College admissions is notoriously unclear as to who gets in and why, and the Internet is filled with unsound, out of date advice.

High school counselors, especially at public schools, are overwhelmed by the number of students they must help. The nationwide average is 385 students per counselor, and 24% of public schools have no counselors at all.

Private college consultants are expensive  their average rate is roughly $300 per hour, and one charges a fee of $750,000 for their services.

Learn more about Apply Genius at www.getapplygenius.com.

Media Contact

Michael Pankowski

[email protected]

SOURCE Apply Genius
Self-amplifying RNA vaccine, delivered by cationic nanocarrier (LION) elicits neutralizing antibody responses in mice and nonhuman primates and protects mice from enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) respiratory infection and resulting disease in mice.

Findings published in the peer-reviewed journal Science Translational Medicine

SEATTLE, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- HDT Bio Corp., a developer of immunotherapies for oncology and infectious diseases, today announced the publication demonstrating the potential for self-amplifying RNA vaccines to be used as tools in our pandemic preparedness toolbox against non-enveloped viruses, a unique group of pathogens.

Transverse section of mouse muscle injected with LION/repRNA encoding green fluorescent protein. Credit: HDT Bio; Dr. Joseph Leal

RNA vaccines have revolutionized our ability to respond to pandemics in a timely manner, however, to date, a roadmap for such a response has only been developed and executed for certain enveloped viruses, "a relatively easy target for the technology", says Dr. Jesse Erasmus, Director of Virology at HDT Bio and senior author. "Both enveloped viruses and RNA vaccines share at least one thing in common; each convert their host cells into bioreactors. In contrast, non-enveloped virusesdepend on complex processes to release their progeny from infected cells, and co-opting those mechanisms to release vaccine antigens from RNA messages is less straightforward."

Non-enveloped viruses, belonging to the same family of viruses that cause Polio, were recently identified as having pandemic potential by the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID). To date, no mRNA vaccines have been described for this group. To develop a roadmap, the authors focused on a prototype member, enterovirus D68 (EV-D68), which spreads via the respiratory route and is implicated in a neuroinvasive disease of children, called acute flaccid myelitis.

The study, funded by National Institutes of Health (NIH) and led by researchers at HDT Bio in collaboration with the Rocky Mountain Laboratories (NIAID/NIH), The Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine at Rutgers, and University of Chapel Hill School of Medicine, investigated the efficacy of HDT Bio's self-amplifying repRNA/LION technology for vaccination against EV-D68 respiratory infection and resulting disease. The researchers characterized the antigenic landscape of EV-D68 variants to inform vaccine composition requirements related to circulating strains. Additionally, they demonstrated robust neutralizing antibody responses after vaccination.

Given the poor ability of current mRNA vaccines to protect the upper respiratory tract and therefore reduce transmission of the respiratory virus that causes COVID-19, the authors also evaluated whether HDT's platform could offer any improvements compared to conventional lipid nanoparticle technology in mouse models of EV-D68 respiratory infection. In this model, the RNA vaccine was similar to COVID-19 vaccines, which provided great protection of the lower respiratory tract but poor control of virus in the nose. In contrast, HDT's vaccine formulated with LION was able to control virus in both the nose and the lungs, despite being delivered into the muscle. "Mucosal vaccination by spraying vaccine in the nose or delivery to other mucosal surfaces, is thought to be required for protection of those surfaces", said Dr. Nikki Warner, first author, "so this is a significant finding, especially if replicated in larger animal models or in humans". Previously, HDT published studies demonstrating robust control of the virus that causes COVID-19 in the noses of LION/repRNA-vaccinated hamsters and nonhuman primates.

The publication can be found on the Science Translational Medicine website and on the Publications page of the HDT Bio website.

More information, including a copy of the paper, can be found online at the Science Translational Medicine press package at https://www.eurekalert.org/press/medpak/.

About HDT Bio

HDT Bio is a Seattle-based, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical development company. With core technology and expertise in nucleic acid formulation, the company develops products that seek to harness host-directed immune responses. HDT Bio's work focuses on infectious disease and oncology vaccines and therapeutics through early-stage collaborations with partners worldwide. The company's vaccine platforms combine formulation and adjuvant ingredients to stabilize and deliver RNA to the immune system to stimulate responses. HDT Bio's repRNA/LION was the first self-amplifying RNA vaccine platform to ever receive a regulatory authorization.

SOURCE HDT Bio Corp.
WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- I AM ALS announced today the launch of the Cures Collective, a neurodegenerative condition coalition. This group of advocates and partner organizations will focus on filling gaps, strengthening collective power, and increasing shared effectiveness as we all focus on ending neurodegenerative diseases (NDs).

The World Health Organization estimates that 1 in 4 people are likely to be diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease, and that they will be the second leading cause of death in developed countries by 2040. Given this urgency and I AM ALS' success as a community convener and change maker, the organization launched a collaborative of organizations and advocates referred to as the Cures Collective. Its inaugural Steering Committee includes organizations Les Turner ALS Foundation , PD Avengers , The Hummingbird Fund , Hop On A Cure , as well as leading advocates Sharon Hall, Jenny Fortner, and Dr. Jinsy Andrews. More than 32 organizational representatives and advocates across Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) have signed on so far, and membership is currently expanding to include representatives from Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease, and other conditions.

"ALS, Parkinsons, FTD, Alzheimers, MS, and other neurodegenerative diseases are all connected in both science and community power. It is our duty to ensure we are working together, sharing learnings, and building on each other's successes for quicker results. We believe that collective action will improve awareness, increase progress, and accelerate treatments and cures for all impacted," said I AM ALS CEO Andrea Goodman.

Following a survey to analyze each organization's programmatic foci as well as insights on shared goals, 23 Cures Collective members met in-person to prioritize opportunities for impactful collaboration. A clear need for neurodegenerative disease awareness emerged, with an opportunity to mobilize community together, create more advocacy power, and a cycle of active and sustained collaboration. The Steering Committee will continue to move forward a strategic plan that mirrors this need and move forward next steps in growing knowledge and awareness of neurodegenerative disease as well as movement growth.

We are grateful to our inaugural sponsors, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharmaceuticals and Corestem Chemon, for supporting this crucial work to drive progress for the neurodegenerative field.

About I AM ALS

I AM ALS is a patient-centric movement revolutionizing how to end disease. The nonprofit provides critical support and resources to people with ALS, caregivers, and loved ones. We empower advocates to raise awareness and lead the movement against ALS in driving the development of treatments and cures. Founded in 2019 by husband and wife team Brian Wallach and Sandra Abrevaya, I AM ALS was born out of their desire to rewrite the ALS story for Brian and the tens of thousands of other people with ALS. Learn more at iamals.org .

SOURCE I AM ALS
First-of-its-kind randomized clinical trial shows teens 35% more likely to quit vaping nicotine with an interactive, tailored text message program

WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A groundbreaking new study published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) demonstrates the effectiveness of an interactive and tailored text message program in helping adolescents quit vaping nicotine. This study is the first published randomized clinical trial of a quit vaping program among teens, filling an important gap in the scientific literature and providing much needed evidence for pediatricians, school administrators, and public health agencies.

Credit Truth Initiative

Conducted from October 2021 to October 2023, the study involved 1,503 adolescents ages 13-17 from across the United States who reported past 30-day e-cigarette use and were interested in quitting. Compared to a control group, participants who received the interactive text message program were 35% more likely to report not using nicotine at the 7-month study endpoint. Quit rates were 37.8% in the intervention groups compared to 28% in the control group.

"For many years, healthcare providers, teachers, and parents have been asking how to help teens quit vaping," said Dr. Amanda Graham, Chief Health Officer at Truth Initiative and principal investigator of the study. "Until today, we haven't had data to tell us what works. This study is a critical breakthrough that demonstrates the power of a relatively simple technology in changing behavior. Text messages serve as powerful reminders of an initial commitment to quit and can deliver proven behavior change support right to a young person's phone."

Importantly, the researchers found strong evidence of the program's effectiveness among key subgroups defined by race, ethnicity, gender, higher levels of nicotine dependence, smoking and other substance use, mental health challenges, and household dysfunction.

These findings are especially important given the recent youth mental health crisis documented by the U.S. Surgeon General. Adolescents in this study were characterized by high severity of past-year problems with depression, sleep, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. In addition, moderate to high levels of nicotine dependence were observed across multiple measures, with more than three-quarters (76.2%) of teens vaping within 30 minutes of waking  a common way to measure addiction.

The text message intervention tested in this study is called This is Quitting, now part of the EX Program from Truth Initiative. Since This is Quitting launched as a text message program in 2019, more than 750,000 young people have enrolled from across the U.S. Grounded in clinical guidelines for treating tobacco dependence, This is Quitting incorporates powerful messages from other young e-cigarette users who have offered their advice about how to quit. Teens and young adults can text DITCHVAPE to 88709 to receive free quit vaping support from the program.

There is no safe level of nicotine use among adolescents, and yet e-cigarettes remain the most commonly used tobacco product among young people, according to the CDC. In 2023, more than 2.1 million adolescents reported current e-cigarette use (4.6% of middle school students and 10% of high school students), with many of them doing so frequently, according to the National Youth Tobacco Survey. Interest in quitting vaping also remains high: 67% of 15- to 24-year-old e-cigarette users said they were considering quitting as a New Year's resolution, according to a 2023 Truth Initiative survey.

"We also did not see evidence that teens who quit vaping transitioned to smoking," added Graham. "Additional analyses requested by the JAMA editorial team focused on use of combustible tobacco products since there is often a concern about transition between vaping and smoking. Even though This is Quitting does not explicitly address smoking, it was effective in reducing dual use (smoking and vaping) and keeping teens in this study from starting to smoke."

This study builds on the findings of an earlier randomized clinical trial of This is Quitting conducted among roughly 2,600 young adults ages 18 to 24. Taken together, the studies provide strong evidence that an interactive, tailored text message program can help teens and their older peers break free from nicotine addiction.

For more information about Truth Initiative, please visit truthinitiative.org. For more information about This is Quitting and the EX Program please visit truthinitiative.org/exprogram.

Background

The clinical trial was conducted by Truth Initiative with oversight from Advarra Institutional Review Board. All branding was removed in the trial to eliminate potential bias. Participants were recruited via social media ads. All participants received incentivized text message assessments regarding e-cigarette use and abstinence at 14 days post-randomization and monthly thereafter through 6 months. All participants were compensated $5 via digital card per response (7 assessments total, maximum $35). These assessments were designed solely to maximize retention; they were not analyzed as outcomes.

This trial was funded by Truth Initiative.

About Truth Initiative

Truth Initiative is a national nonprofit public health organization committed to a future free from lifelong addiction, fostering healthier lives and a more resilient nation. Our mission is to prevent youth and young adult nicotine addiction and empower quitting for all. Through our evidence-based, market-leading cessation EX Program and the nationally recognized truth public education campaign, we are leading the fight against youth and young adult tobacco use, which threatens to put a new generation at risk of nicotine addiction. Our first-of-its-kind text message quit vaping program, This Is Quitting, has enrolled over 750,000 young people across the country, and our youth e-cigarette prevention curriculum, Vaping: Know the truth, is currently implemented in over 9,000 schools nationwide, reaching a total of over one million students thus far. Our rigorous scientific research and policy studies, community and youth engagement programs supporting populations at high risk of using tobacco, and innovation in tobacco dependence treatment continue to contribute to ending one of the most critical public health battles of our time. Based in Washington, D.C., our organization was established and funded through the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement between attorneys general from 46 states, five U.S. territories, and the tobacco industry. To learn more, visit truthinitiative.org.

SOURCE Truth Initiative
Partnership leveraging L Catterton's operating know-how will help entrench Viee's leading position in Sichuan and Chongqing and facilitate expansion in nearby provinces

CHENGDU, China, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- L Catterton, a leading global consumer-focused investment firm, today announced that it has made a strategic investment in Viee, a beverage company with an eponymous brand of plant-based drinks most frequently consumed alongside spicy cuisines in southwestern China. Working closely with each other, L Catterton will partner with Viee to solidify the brand's iconic profile and foothold in its home region of Sichuan and Chongqing, enlarge its presence in adjacent provinces, and expand across the rest of the country.

China's market for beverages consumed alongside food has been growing and is expected to reach around $60 billion in 2028 as consumers increasingly dine out and patronize meal delivery services instead of cooking at home. Non-alcoholic drinks have also been winning market share from alcoholic beverages in the food service industry amid rising demand for healthier drinks that contain natural ingredients, especially among Gen Z consumers.

Made predominantly from peanuts and walnuts, Viee's range of beverages are highly effective as spice and grease 'neutralizers' and considered by consumers in Sichuan and Chongqing as "must-have drinks" when eating the spicy dishes that characterize southwestern China's cuisine. Coupled with the reputation for tasting great, being nutritious, as well as being additive- and preservative-free that they have earned over the past 30 years, their efficacy has led Viee to become the top-selling non-carbonated, non-alcoholic beverage brand in the region. With its strong brand equity and high quality, Viee has also come to enjoy best-in-class conversion, repurchase, and customer advocacy rates in its home region and is gaining traction in nearby provinces such as Shaanxi, Guizhou, and Yunnan.

"Viee has a large and growing base of loyal customers in a sizable and resilient category in southwestern China," commented Scott Chen, a managing partner in the Asia fund of L Catterton. "The company has not only developed drinks which have become fairly ubiquitous in the region, but also established a vertically integrated supply chain and wide network of distributors with whom it has longstanding relationships. Earnings have been on a clear uptrend and hit a record high in 2023, attesting to consumers' enduring demand for Viee through market cycles. The company has a proven management team, and we look forward to working closely with it to unlock further value."

Viee founder representative Yawen Guo added, "L Catterton has a keen understanding of our industry and business. We are impressed by the comprehensive value creation plan that the firm has devised for Viee and are excited about executing it in partnership with them. By working together to solidify our lead in Sichuan and Chongqing and further penetrate the market in adjacent provinces as well as the rest of China, we believe that we will be better able to enrich our target customers' lives, providing them with tasty and nutritious beverages which they enjoy."

L Catterton has extensive experience building beverage brands across the world. Current and past investments in the space include Chi Forest, Glaceau Vitaminwater, Heytea, Innis & Gunn, Odwalla, Remedy, and Sweet Leaf Tea.

About L Catterton

L Catterton is a market-leading consumer-focused investment firm, managing approximately $35 billion of equity capital across three multi-product platforms: private equity, credit, and real estate. Leveraging deep category insight, operational excellence, and a broad network of strategic relationships, L Catterton's team of more than 200 investment and operating professionals across 17 offices partners with management teams to drive differentiated value creation across its portfolio. Founded in 1989, the firm has made over 275 investments in some of the world's most iconic consumer brands. For more information about L Catterton, please visit www.lcatterton.com.

About Viee

Sichuan Viee Beverage Food Co., Ltd is the largest plant-based beverage company in western China. Since its establishment in 1992, the company has been dedicated to providing healthy drinks using high-quality natural ingredients that are suitable for consumers across a wide range of ages. Its portfolio comprises its signature series of plant-based beverages with Vitamin E and Bifidus factor that are made predominantly from peanuts and walnuts, as well as a range of oat and soy milk products with a variety of flavors such as ginger, jasmine, osmanthus, pine nut, and sesame. Being tasty and highly effective as spice neutralizers, Viee's drinks are consumed extensively across Sichuan and Chongqing, and are also gaining popularity in adjacent provinces, with products available at more than 550,000 points of sale in the region. For more information about Viee, please visit www.bsg-viee.com.

CONTACTS

L Catterton

Julie Hamilton (U.S.)

[email protected]

+1 203 742 5185

Bob Ong / Bonnie Gan (Asia)

[email protected] / [email protected]

+65 6672 7619 / +86 10 8555 1807

Viee

Yongqiong Zhu

[email protected]

+86 186 2817 6373

SOURCE L Catterton
BOSTON, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Liberty Mutual Holding Company Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively "LMHC" or the "Company") reported net income attributable to LMHC of $717 million and $2.252 billion for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, versus a net loss attributable to LMHC of $585 million and $660 million for the same periods in 2023.

"For the second quarter, we reported net income attributable to LMHC of $717 million, reflecting continued improvement in our underlying combined ratio and strong investment results," said Tim Sweeney, Liberty Mutual President & Chief Executive Officer. "Our underlying combined ratio improved 9.5 points from the prior year to 84.0%. Of that, 7.1 points of improvement resulted from our targeted underwriting strategies improving both personal and commercial lines. In addition, our ongoing expense management program contributed 2.4 points of expense ratio improvement, driving it down to 26.4% for the second quarter and half year. Catastrophe losses in the quarter remained elevated, despite improving over prior year, attributable primarily to severe convective storm activity in the US Midwest. Including catastrophes and prior year development, the total combined ratio was 99.6% for the quarter, a 9.8-point improvement over prior year. In addition, investment results in the quarter were strong, benefiting from higher reinvestment rates and favorable private equity valuations, which contributed to $1.3 billion of net investment income."

The tables below outline highlights of LMHC's consolidated financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024.

Net Written Premium ("NWP") by Business:

Consolidated NWP by business was as follows:



Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, $ in Millions 2024 2023 Change 2024 2023 Change US Retail Markets $7,415 $7,804 (5.0 %) $13,960 $14,747 (5.3 %) Global Risk Solutions 4,062 4,079 (0.4) 8,438 8,298 1.7 Corporate and Other (50) (72) (30.6) (13) (79) (83.5) Total NWP $11,427 $11,811 (3.3 %) $22,385 $22,966 (2.5 %) Foreign exchange effect on growth



(0.2)



0.0 NWP growth excluding foreign exchange1



(3.1 %)



(2.5 %)

1 Determined by assuming constant foreign exchange rates between periods.





Consolidated Results of Operations:



Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, $ in Millions 2024 2023 Change 2024 2023 Change Revenues $12,798 $12,354 3.6 % $25,273 $24,281 4.1 % Underlying PTOI before limited partnerships

income 2,444 1,182 106.8 4,373 2,125 105.8 Catastrophes (1,742) (2,267) (23.2) (2,569) (3,342) (23.1) Net incurred losses attributable to prior years:











- Asbestos and environmental1 - (4) (100.0) - (4) (100.0) - All other2 (24) 627 NM (18) 523 NM Current accident year re-estimation3 - (148) (100.0) - - - Pre-tax operating income (loss) before

limited partnerships income 678 (610) NM 1,786 (698) NM Limited partnerships income4 466 107 NM 625 23 NM Pre-tax operating income (loss) 1,144 (503) NM 2,411 (675) NM Net realized losses (162) (63) 157.1 (254) (112) 126.8 Acquisition & integration costs (19) (13) 46.2 (40) (25) 60.0 Restructuring costs (19) (38) (50.0) (25) (40) (37.5) Pre-tax income (loss) 944 (617) NM 2,092 (852) NM Income tax expense (benefit) 232 (150) NM 502 (200) NM Consolidated net income (loss) from continuing operations 712 (467) NM 1,590 (652) NM Discontinued operations, net of tax 10 (115) NM 673 2 NM Consolidated net income (loss) 722 (582) NM 2,263 (650) NM Less: Net income attributable to non-

controlling interest 5 3 66.7 11 10 10.0 Net income (loss) attributable to LMHC 717 (585) NM 2,252 (660) NM Net income (loss) attributable to LMHC

excluding unrealized impact5 717 (528) NM 2,260 (596) NM Cash flow provided by continuing operations $1,414 $444 NM $2,315 $424 NM

1 Asbestos and environmental is gross of the related adverse development reinsurance (the "NICO Reinsurance Transaction", which is described further in Reinsurance). 2 Net of earned premium and reinstatement premium attributable to prior years of $104 million and $112 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, and $27 million and $24 million for the same periods in 2023. 3 Re-estimation of the current accident year loss reserves for the three months ended March 31, 2023. 4 Limited partnerships income includes LP, LLC and other equity method income within net investment income in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations and revenue and expenses from direct investments in natural resources. 5 Excludes unrealized gains on equity securities, unit linked life insurance, and the corresponding tax impact.

NM = Not Meaningful





Combined Ratio:



Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, CONSOLIDATED 2024 2023 Change

(Points) 2024 2023 Change

(Points) Combined ratio











Claims and claim adjustment expense ratio 57.6 % 64.7 % (7.1) 59.8 % 65.5 % (5.7) Underwriting expense ratio 26.4 28.8 (2.4) 26.4 28.5 (2.1) Underlying combined ratio 84.0 93.5 (9.5) 86.2 94.0 (7.8) Catastrophes 15.4 20.0 (4.6) 11.3 14.8 (3.5) Net incurred losses attributable to

prior years:











- Asbestos and environmental - - - - - - - All other1 0.2 (5.4) 5.6 0.2 (2.3) 2.5 Current accident year re-estimation2 - 1.3 (1.3) - - - Total combined ratio3 99.6 % 109.4 % (9.8) 97.7 % 106.5 % (8.8)

1 Net of earned premium and reinstatement premium attributable to prior years. 2 Re-estimation of the current accident year loss reserves for the three months ended March 31, 2023. 3 The combined ratio, expressed as a percentage, is a measure of underwriting profitability. This measure should only be used in conjunction with, and not in lieu of, underwriting income and may not be comparable to other performance measures used by the Company's competitors. The combined ratio is computed as the sum of the following property and casualty ratios: the ratio of claims and claim adjustment expense less managed care income to earned premium; the ratio of insurance operating costs plus amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs less third-party administration income and fee income (primarily related to the Company's involuntary market servicing carrier operations) and installment charges to earned premium; and the ratio of policyholder dividends to earned premium. Provisions for uncollectible premium and reinsurance are not included in the combined ratio unless related to an asbestos and environmental commutation and certain other run off. Restructuring and acquisition and integration costs are not included in the combined ratio.





Equity:



As of June 30, As of

December 31,

$ in Millions 2024 2023 Change Unassigned equity $32,243 $29,991 7.5 % Accumulated other comprehensive loss (5,274) (5,127) 2.9 Non-controlling interest 187 196 (4.6) Total equity $27,156 $25,060 8.4 %



Subsequent Events

On July 19, 2024, the Company announced that an agreement was signed with Markerstudy Group to sell Hughes Insurance in Northern Ireland. The transaction is subject to approval by the relevant governmental and regulatory authorities and is expected to close in the second half of 2024.

Management has assessed material subsequent events through August 7, 2024, the date the financial statements were available to be issued.

Financial Information

The Company's financial results, management's discussion and analysis of operating results and financial condition, accompanying financial statements and other supplemental financial information for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 are available on the Company's Investor Relations website at www.libertymutualgroup.com/investors.

Conference Call Information

On August 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time, Tim Sweeney, Liberty Mutual Insurance President and CEO, will host a conference call to discuss the Company's second quarter financial results. To participate in the event via telephone and to ask a question, please dial 844-481-2837 and request to join into the Liberty Mutual Insurance call. To listen to the call online via PC and view a presentation on financial performance, please log into https://event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=X56Bu8TP . Following the call, a recording of the event will be available on the Investor Relations section of Liberty Mutual's website, www.libertymutualgroup.com/investors.

About Liberty Mutual Insurance

At Liberty Mutual, we believe progress happens when people feel secure. By providing protection for the unexpected and delivering it with care, we help people embrace today and confidently pursue tomorrow.

In business since 1912, and headquartered in Boston, today we are the eighth largest global property and casualty insurer based on 2023 gross written premium. We also rank 87th on the Fortune 100 list of largest corporations in the US based on 2023 revenue. As of December 31, 2023, we had $49.4 billion in annual consolidated revenue.

We employ over 45,000 people in 29 countries and economies around the world. We offer a wide range of insurance products and services, including personal automobile, homeowners, specialty lines, reinsurance, commercial multiple-peril, workers compensation, commercial automobile, general liability, surety, and commercial property.

For more information, visit www.libertymutualinsurance.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This report contains forward looking statements that are intended to enhance the reader's ability to assess the future financial and business performance of the Company. Forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that represent the Company's beliefs concerning future operations, strategies, financial results, investment market fluctuations, or other developments, and contain words and phrases such as "may," "expects," "should," "believes," "anticipates," "estimates," "intends" or similar expressions. Because these forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions that are subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control or are subject to change, actual results could be materially different.

Contact: Investor Relations Media Relations

Robert Pietsch Rich Angevine

857-224-6655 617-833-0926

SOURCE Liberty Mutual Insurance
As we celebrate the nostalgic era surrounding some of our favorite strains, we also acknowledge the volatile and harmful effects of prohibition. Pleasantrees is honored to partner with The Redemption Foundation to create a catalyst for consumers to directly support justice-impacted individuals and their families with the Legacy Series.

For each product from Pleasantrees' Legacy Series sold, $1 will be donated to The Redemption Foundation to directly support its Commissary Program , which helps reduce the financial strain on incarcerated individuals and their families.

Recognizing that the average hourly wage for prisoners is $0.14/hr, each purchase from the Legacy Series funds about 1 full day of wages and can be immensely impactful to those currently incarcerated. For the debut of the Legacy Series, Pleasantrees total commitment will give 1 week of wages to over 420 inmates.

"Our team has really embraced The Legacy Series," said Jerome Crawford, Chief Legal Officer of Pleasantrees. "Not just because the classic genetics invoke nostalgia, but more so for the connection we've been able to foster and create with the Redemption Foundation's Commissary Program, where we can help support some of the legacy folks that are unjustly locked up for their perceived cannabis crimes."

Pleasantrees will be launching the series with three classics: Blue Dream, Chem D, and East Coast Sour Diesel. The strains are small-batch, grown with care, and intended to leave you reminiscing on those special times in your life.

"The Redemption Foundation is excited to partner with Pleasantrees through our Commissary Program. It is especially fitting and meaningful that their Legacy Series will be used to support federal cannabis prisoners across the country," said Ryan Basore, President of Redemption Cannabis. Providing funds for commissary allows inmates to make phone calls, send emails, and write letters to their loved ones. It also helps cover medical supplies, footwear, and even nutritious food. Most importantly, it lets them know they are not forgotten and that brighter days are ahead."

The Legacy Series presented by Pleasantrees will be available to shop exclusively at one of Pleasantrees' five retail locations beginning August 9th. Following its retail debut, The Legacy Series will be released to the Michigan wholesale market with select partners.

About Pleasantrees:

Pleasantrees, a Michigan based Cannabis company, strives to not only grow the best quality cannabis but to also create "pleasant" experiences for customers and their communities. With the combination of top tier product and exemplary customer service and hospitality, Pleasantrees raises the standards of the cannabis industry and leads the Michigan market to new heights.

Redemption Foundation:

The Redemption Foundation is a nonprofit organization led by Ryan Basore, dedicated to promoting restorative justice and supporting individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. Our mission is to advocate and support those who have been criminalized for cannabis-related activities.

In December 2010, despite Ryan Basore's efforts to comply with state and local law, his state-legal cannabis operations were raided by the DEA, State Police, and National Guard. In 2012, Ryan was charged with 13 federal counts related to the manufacture and distribution of marijuana and subsequently served a 4-year sentence at FCI Morgantown, West Virginia.

Upon his release, Ryan was inspired to dedicate his life to restorative justice, founding the Redemption Foundation to help others navigate the challenges of reentry and advocate for reform in the cannabis industry and criminal justice system. We focus on providing resources, education, and support to individuals and their families affected by these issues. Join us in our mission to create a more just and equitable society by supporting those who have been unjustly penalized and working towards meaningful reform.

SOURCE Pleasantrees
HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LogiCore Corporation, a leader in Army Logistics, announces its award of the GSA OASIS Plus Small Business Logistics IDIQ Contract from the General Services Administration (GSA). This contract positions LogiCore to compete at the forefront of government contracting and provide a single solution for complex requirements.

The GSA OASIS+ contract is a global vehicle, enabling performance in both CONUS and OCONUS locations. It encompasses a wide range of comprehensive logistics solutions that are applicable worldwide, ensuring the movement of supplies, equipment, or personnel through various transportation means. This global reach is integral to the contract, providing the flexibility to support logistics operations anywhere on the globe. The OASIS+ Small Business Logistics IDIQ Contract is designed to support multiple technical disciplines and mission spaces, both commercial and non-commercial acquisition, and all contract types, including hybrids and cost-reimbursement, at the task order level. It also allows for ancillary support components, or other direct costs (ODCs), and performance in both CONUS and OCONUS locations.

Miranda Bouldin, President and CEO of LogiCore, expressed her excitement for the contract, stating, "Winning the OASIS+ contract is a strategic milestone for LogiCore. It not only allows us to compete in the government contracting space but also affirms our capability to meet and exceed the global and multifaceted needs of our clients.

We are immensely grateful to our dedicated team and our valued customers for their unwavering support and trust in us. This achievement is not just a testament to our capabilities but also a reflection of the collective effort and commitment of everyone involved. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey and for contributing to our success."

For more information about LogiCore Corporation and its Logistics services, please visit www.logicorehsv.com .

About LogiCore Corporation

Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, LogiCore Corporation specializes in delivering innovative logistics and engineering services to clients in various sectors, including Defense, Aerospace, and Intelligence.

For the full details of the GSA OASIS Plus Small Business Logistics IDIQ Contract, please refer to the GSA Press Release, July 31, 2024.

SOURCE LogiCore Corporation
TORONTO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Mandalay Resources Corporation ("Mandalay" or the "Company") (TSX: MND) (OTCQB: MNDJF) is pleased to announce strong financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024 supported by solid production results, disciplined capital allocation, and favorable metal prices.

The Company's condensed and consolidated interim financial result for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, together with its Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the corresponding period, can be accessed under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com and on the Company's website at www.mandalayresources.com. All currency references in this press release are in U.S. dollars except as otherwise indicated.

Second Quarter 2024 Highlights:

Continued strengthening of balance sheet with cash balance of $62.9 million as at June 30, 2024 and a growing net cash position[1] of $35.8 million ;

as at and a growing net cash position[1] of ; Generated $24.1 million and $15.6 million in cash flow from operating activities and free cash flow 1 , respectively;

and in cash flow from operating activities and free cash flow , respectively; Consolidated revenue up by 59% as compared to Q2 2023, at $63.1 million ; Bjorkdal recorded its highest ever quarterly revenue of $28.8 million ; Costerfield generated $34.3 million in quarterly revenue;

; Consolidated cash operating cost 1 per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 12% to $1,022 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,159 per ounce in Q2 2023;

per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 12% to per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to per ounce in Q2 2023; All-in sustaining cost 1 per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 17% to $1,419 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,704 per ounce in Q2 2023; and

per gold equivalent ounce produced decreased by 17% to per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to per ounce in Q2 2023; and Consolidated net income was $15.9 million ( $0.17 or C$0.23 per share), compared to $0.5 million in Q2 2023.

Subsequent to the quarter end, based on the Company's strong quarter-end cash position and ongoing cash flow expectations, Mandalay repaid the entire outstanding balance ($20 million) of its Revolving Credit Facility. As a result, Mandalay currently has no indebtedness other than minor equipment leases. The undrawn $35 million Revolving Credit Facility remains in place.

Frazer Bourchier, President, and CEO commented:

"In the second quarter, we again delivered revenue and earnings growth, driven by solid production results and a stable cost profile that met our internal plans. Based on our strong quarter-end cash position of approximately $63 million and anticipated future cash flow generation, we have fully repaid the remaining $20 million balance on our Revolving Credit Facility, leaving us with $35 million in undrawn availability under the facility. We will keep proactively managing our balance sheet to increase our financial flexibility."

____________________________ 1. Gold equivalent production, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, net cash, cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" at the end of this press release for further information.

Hashim Ahmed, CFO commented:

"On a consolidated basis, the Company generated $15.6 million in free cash flow during Q2 2024, equating to approximately $582 per ounce of gold equivalent sold. This was supported by an increase in cash flow from operating activities during the same period, amounting to $24.1 million by the end of Q2 2024. As compared with the previous quarter, Mandalay's cash balance rose by approximately $16 million with an ending net cash position of $35.8 million in Q2 2024.

"Our consolidated cash and all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold equivalent produced during Q2 2024 were $1,022 and $1,419, respectively, marking a decrease compared to the corresponding quarter last year, primarily due to increased gold equivalent production.

"Bjorkdal achieved its highest quarterly revenue, nearing $29 million. This was primarily driven by increased tonnage processed in Q2 2024, as compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, Costerfield recorded its third consecutive quarter-over-quarter revenue increase reaching $34.3 million."

Mr. Bourchier concluded: "Mandalay made substantial progress in strengthening its balance sheet during the first half of the year. We are executing well on our operational strategic priorities and remain on track to achieve our annual production guidance, while continuing to take steps to further optimize our operations for better sustained cash flow generation, positioning the Company for long-term growth and increased shareholder value."

Second Quarter 2024 Financial Summary

The following table summarizes the Company's consolidated financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:

($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30, June 30,

2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue 63,054 39,670 118,565 81,849 Cost of sales 25,162 29,236 52,193 55,842 Adjusted EBITDA (1) 35,862 8,890 62,597 21,835 Adjusted net income (loss) (1) 16,802 (3,229) 28,954 (2,711) Consolidated net income 15,857 524 21,745 1,078 Capital expenditure 8,791 14,095 21,937 22,872 Total assets 323,272 271,324 323,272 271,324 Total liabilities 109,244 91,001 109,244 91,001 Adjusted net income (loss) per share (1) 0.18 (0.03) 0.31 (0.03) Consolidated net income per share 0.17 0.01 0.23 0.01

1. Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" at the end of this press release for further information.

In Q2 2024, Mandalay generated consolidated revenue of $63.1 million, 59% higher than the second quarter of 2023. The increase in revenue was due to an increase in gold production contributing to higher gold equivalent ounces sold of 26,759 ounces in Q2 2024 as compared to 20,229 ounces in Q2 2023 together with higher average realized prices: $2,314 per ounce for gold and $20,320 per tonne for antimony in Q2 2024 compared to $1,949 per ounce and $12,406 per tonne in Q2 2023.

Consolidated cash operating cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced decreased 12% to $1,022 per ounce in the second quarter of 2024 compared to $1,159 in the second quarter of 2023. The decrease in cash operating cost per ounce was due to a 26% increase of gold equivalent production in Q2 2024 with 26,372 ounces produced compared to 20,850 ounces in Q2 2023, partly offset by a 12% increase in cash operating costs. The increase in cash operating costs was primarily due to higher processing costs at both sites during Q2 2024 compared to Q2 2023 due to increased throughput at Bjorkdal and increased costs for tailings and water management at Costerfield coupled with increased personnel expenses during Q2 2024, which stemmed from understaffing due to recruitment challenges in Q2 2023.

Cost of sales including change in inventory during the second quarter of 2024 versus the second quarter of 2023 were $4.8 million lower at Costerfield due a higher build-up of inventory partly offset by the higher cash operating costs and $0.7 million higher at Bjorkdal. Consolidated general and administrative costs were $0.5 million higher compared to the second quarter of 2023.

Mandalay generated adjusted EBITDA of $35.9 million in the second quarter of 2024, which is four times higher than the adjusted EBITDA in the second quarter of 2023. The increase in adjusted EBITDA was mainly due to higher revenue in the current quarter. Adjusted net income was $16.8 million in the second quarter of 2024, which excludes a $0.9 million loss on financial instruments, compared to an adjusted net loss of $3.2 million in the second quarter of 2023.

Consolidated net income was $15.9 million for the second quarter of 2024, versus $0.5 million in the second quarter of 2023. Mandalay ended the second quarter of 2024 with $62.9 million in cash and cash equivalents.

Second Quarter Operational Summary

The table below summarizes the Company's operations, capital expenditures and operational unit costs for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:



Three months ended Six months ended June 30, June 30,

2024 2023 2024 2023 Costerfield







Gold produced (oz) 11,027 7,296 23,003 14,664 Antimony produced (t) 359 517 763 1,061 Gold equivalent produced (oz) 13,773 10,453 28,339 21,470 Cash operating cost (1) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 844 930 811 925 All-in sustaining cost (1) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 1,142 1,268 1,072 1,190 Capital development 1,023 983 1,877 1,848 Property, plant and equipment purchases 1,291 1,089 2,144 1,597 Capitalized exploration 2,281 1,968 4,228 4,120 Bjorkdal







Gold produced (oz) 12,599 10,397 22,969 19,366 Cash operating cost (1) per oz gold produced ($) 1,216 1,389 1,300 1,483 All-in sustaining cost (1,3) per oz gold produced ($) 1,553 1,978 1,695 1,959 Capital development 2,110 2,761 4,791 4,569 Property, plant and equipment purchases 1,296 5,743 2,704 8,327 Capitalized exploration 1,013 1,551 1,612 2,344 Consolidated







Gold equivalent produced (oz) 26,372 20,850 51,308 40,836 Cash operating cost (1) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 1,022 1,159 1,030 1,190 All-in sustaining cost (1,3) per oz gold eq. produced ($) 1,419 1,704 1,427 1,663 Capital development 3,133 3,744 6,668 6,417 Property, plant and equipment purchases (2) 2,364 6,832 9,372 9,924 Capitalized exploration 3,294 3,519 5,897 6,531

1. Cash operating cost and all-in sustaining cost are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" at the end of this press release for further information. 2. includes equipments purchased for reclamation activities at non-operating site. 3. All-in sustaining costs in the current year includes tailings dam amortization, accordingly the 2023 comparative figures have been updated.

Costerfield gold-antimony mine, Victoria, Australia

During Q2 2024, Costerfield produced 11,027 ounces of gold compared to 7,296 ounces in Q2 2023, an increase of 51% or 3,731 ounces. The increase in ounces produced was a result of an increase in the average milled gold head grade from 7.39 g/t in Q2 2023 to 12.07 g/t in Q2 2024. Costerfield generated $34.3 million in revenue and $23.5 million in adjusted EBITDA, which resulted in net income of $12.3 million.

The cash operating cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced decreased by 9% to $844 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $930 in Q2 2023, and all-in sustaining cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced decreased by 10% to $1,142 per ounce in Q2 2024 compared to $1,268 Q2 2023, both mainly as a result of the increased gold equivalent production partly offset by increased cash operating costs mainly due to increased processing costs due to higher costs for tailings and water management coupled with increased personnel costs both in the mine and the mill during Q2 2024, which stemmed from understaffing due to recruitment challenges in Q2 2023 and higher mining materials costs due to unplanned spending to reinforce production areas during Q2 2024.

Bjorkdal gold mine, Skelleftea, Sweden

During Q2 2024, Bjorkdal produced 12,599 ounces of gold compared to 10,397 ounces in Q2 2023, an increase of 21% or 2,202 ounces, mainly due to the 12% increase in the tonnes of ore processed from 296,213 in Q2 2023 to 331,450 in Q2 2024. Bjorkdal generated $28.8 million in revenue and $14.3 million in adjusted EBITDA, which resulted in net income of $5.0 million.

The cash operating cost per ounce produced for Q2 2024 decreased by 12% to $1,216 per ounce compared to $1,389 in Q2 2023 as a result of the increased gold production partly offset by increased cash operating costs mainly due to higher throughput post the commissioning of the mill conversion capital investment project in Q1 2024 resulting in increased consumption of grinding media and other mill consumables. All-in sustaining cost per ounce decreased by 21% to $1,553 per ounce, compared to $1,978 in Q2 2023 as a result of the increased gold production coupled with lower sustaining capital spending partly offset by the increased cash operating costs.

Lupin, Nunavut, Canada

Care and maintenance spending at Lupin was less than $0.1 million during Q2 2024 and Q2 2023. Reclamation spending at Lupin was $0.5 million during Q2 2024 compared to less than $0.1 million in Q2 2023. There will be increased reclamation spend in the remaining year 2024 at Lupin relative to the 2023 year, but the majority of this reclamation work to achieve the majority of closure obligations, is expected to take place in the 2025 calendar year. Lupin is currently in the process of final closure and reclamation activities, which are partly funded by progressive security reductions held by the Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.

La Quebrada, Chile

No work was carried out on the La Quebrada development property during Q2 2024.

Conference Call

A conference call with Frazer Bourchier, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mandalay, for investors and analysts on August 8, 2024, at 8:00 AM (Toronto time). Interested investors may join by using the following dial-in number:

Participant Number (North America toll free): 1-800-836-8184 Conference ID: 94411

Alternatively, please register for the webcast here. A replay of the conference call will be available until 11:59 PM (Toronto time), August 15, 2024, and can be accessed using the following dial-in numbers:

Encore Number (Canada Toll free): 1-888-660-6345 Encore Replay Code: 94411#

About Mandalay Resources Corporation

Mandalay Resources is a Canadian-based natural resource company with producing assets in Australia (Costerfield gold-antimony mine) and Sweden (Bjorkdal gold mine). The Company is focused on growing its production and reducing costs to generate significant positive cashflow. Mandalay is committed to operating safely and in an environmentally responsible manner, while developing a high level of community and employee engagement.

Mandalay's mission is to create shareholder value through the profitable operation and regional exploration programs, at both its Costerfield and Bjorkdal mines. Currently, the Company's main objectives are to continue mining the high-grade Youle and Shepherd veins at Costerfield, and to extend Mineral Reserves. At Bjorkdal, the Company will aim to increase production from the Eastern Extension area and other higher-grade areas in the coming years, in order to maximize profit margins from the mine.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in 2024. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, changes in commodity prices and general market and economic conditions. The factors identified above are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect Mandalay. A description of additional risks that could result in actual results and developments differing from those contemplated by forward-looking statements in this news release can be found under the heading "Risk Factors" in Mandalay's annual information form dated March 31, 2024, a copy of which is available under Mandalay's profile at www.sedar.com. In addition, there can be no assurance that any inferred resources that are discovered as a result of additional drilling will ever be upgraded to proven or probable reserves. Although Mandalay has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Non-GAAP Performance Measures

This news release may contain references to adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, free cash flow, cash operating cost per ounce of gold equivalent produced and all-in sustaining cost all of which are non-GAAP performance measures and do not have standardized meanings under IFRS. Therefore, these measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

Management uses adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow as measures of operating performance to assist in assessing the Company's ability to generate liquidity through operating cash flow to fund future working capital needs and to fund future capital expenditures, as well as to assist in comparing financial performance from period to period on a consistent basis. Management uses adjusted net income in order to facilitate an understanding of the Company's financial performance prior to the impact of non-recurring or special items. The Company believes that these measures are used by and are useful to investors and other users of the Company's financial statements in evaluating the Company's operating and cash performance because they allow for analysis of its financial results without regard to special, non-cash and other non-core items, which can vary substantially from company to company and over different periods.

The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as income from mine operations, net of administration costs, and before interest, taxes, non-cash charges/(income), intercompany charges and finance costs. The Company defines adjusted net income as net income before special items. Special items are items of income and expense that are presented separately due to their nature and, in some cases, expected infrequency of the events giving rise to them. A reconciliation between adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income, on the one hand, and consolidated net income, on the other hand, is included in the MD&A.

The Company defines free cash flow as a measure of the Company's ability to generate and manage liquidity. It is calculated starting with the net cash flows from operating activities (as per IFRS) and then subtracting capital expenditures and lease payments. Refer to "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" section of the MD&A for a reconciliation between free cash flow and net cash flows from operating activities.

For Costerfield, equivalent gold ounces produced is calculated by adding to gold ounces produced, the antimony tonnes produced times the average antimony price in the period divided by the average gold price in the period. The total cash operating cost associated with the production of these equivalent ounces produced in the period is then divided by the equivalent gold ounces produced to yield the cash operating cost per equivalent ounce produced. The cash operating cost excludes royalty expenses. Site all-in sustaining costs include total cash operating costs, sustaining mining capital, royalty expense, accretion of reclamation provision and tailings dam amortization. Sustaining capital reflects the capital required to maintain each site's current level of operations. The site's all-in sustaining cost per ounce of gold equivalent in a period equals the all-in sustaining cost divided by the equivalent gold ounces produced in the period.

For Bjorkdal, the total cash operating cost associated with the production of gold ounces produced in the period is then divided by the gold ounces produced to yield the cash operating cost per gold ounce produced. The cash operating cost excludes royalty expenses. Site all-in sustaining costs include total cash operating costs, sustaining mining capital, royalty expense, accretion of reclamation provision and tailings dam amortization. Sustaining capital reflects the capital required to maintain each site's current level of operations. The site's all-in sustaining cost per ounce of gold equivalent in a period equals the all-in sustaining cost divided by the equivalent gold ounces produced in the period.

For the Company as a whole, cash operating cost per gold equivalent ounce is calculated by summing the gold equivalent ounces produced by each site and dividing the total by the sum of cash operating costs at the sites. Consolidated cash operating cost excludes royalty and corporate level general and administrative expenses. This definition was updated in the third quarter of 2020 to exclude corporate general and administrative expenses to better align with industry standard. All-in sustaining cost per ounce gold equivalent in the period equals the sum of cash operating costs associated with the production of gold equivalent ounces at all operating sites in the period plus corporate overhead expense in the period plus sustaining mining capital, royalty expense, accretion of reclamation provision and tailings dam amortization, divided by the total gold equivalent ounces produced in the period. A reconciliation between cost of sales and cash operating costs, and also cash operating cost to all-in sustaining costs are included in the MD&A.

SOURCE Mandalay Resources Corporation
SEATTLE, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Market Defense, the premier partner for beauty brands on the global marketplaces of Amazon, Walmart, and Mercado Libre, proudly announces the release of its Amazon Prime Day 2024 Beauty Report: Beauty Power Players. The report provides an in-depth analysis of beauty product performance, consumer behavior, and emerging trends across Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup and Fragrance during the two-day Amazon Prime Day event, which took place on July 16-17, 2024.

Amazon stated that Prime Day 2024, Amazon's 10th anniversary of this legendary shopping event, set new records in sales. The best-selling Beauty & Personal Care brands such as COSRX, Laneige, and Mighty Patch utilized discounts from 15-41% to drive sales. Key highlights from the Market Defense 2024 Amazon Prime Day Beauty Report include:

Analysis of beauty product performance and trends across Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup and Fragrance during Amazon Prime Day Post this

Top-Performing Beauty Brands : The report details the top-selling products and brands, such as CeraVe, Olaplex, and Grande Cosmetics, which dominated sales across various subcategories. These brands leveraged targeted marketing and strategic discounting to capture consumer attention and drive sales.



: The report details the top-selling products and brands, such as CeraVe, Olaplex, and Grande Cosmetics, which dominated sales across various subcategories. These brands leveraged targeted marketing and strategic discounting to capture consumer attention and drive sales. Social Media Influence : Hashtags like #primeday garnered over 314 million views in the weeks before Prime Day, driving consumer interest and purchases.



: Hashtags like #primeday garnered over 314 million views in the weeks before Prime Day, driving consumer interest and purchases. TikTok fueling Amazon beauty buying: During Prime Day week, "Sunscreen" emerged as the fastest-growing trend across TikTok's beauty categories with 5 billion views and became the most searched term in Amazon's Skin Care category on Prime Day.



During Prime Day week, "Sunscreen" emerged as the fastest-growing trend across TikTok's beauty categories with 5 billion views and became the most searched term in Amazon's Skin Care category on Prime Day. Consumer Insights : The typical Prime Day shopper was identified as a high-income suburban female aged 35 to 44, showcasing the power of targeted marketing. The report also highlights key consumer behaviors, such as the growing use of "buy now, pay later" services and the influence of mobile shopping.



: The typical Prime Day shopper was identified as a high-income suburban female aged 35 to 44, showcasing the power of targeted marketing. The report also highlights key consumer behaviors, such as the growing use of "buy now, pay later" services and the influence of mobile shopping. Strategic Insights for Brands: The report offers actionable insights for beauty brands, including the importance of strategic discounting, the impact of social media influence, and the benefits of multi-channel promotion. Brands are encouraged to leverage these insights to optimize their Prime Day strategies and maximize their sales potential.

"Our annual Amazon Prime Day Beauty Report is an essential tool for beauty brands aiming to understand and leverage Prime Day's unique opportunities," said Vanessa Kuykendall, Chief Engagement Officer at Market Defense. "By analyzing top-selling beauty products on Prime Day, we leverage that data to help beauty brands adjust their strategies and boost growth for the next Prime Day."

Prime Day also saw heightened competition, with many retailers hosting concurrent sales events, further boosting online transactions. Retailers such as Target, Walmart, and emerging platforms like Temu and Shein offered their own significant discounts, driving overall Beauty & Personal Care online sales. The report discusses how these competitive dynamics influenced consumer shopping behavior and impacted sales across the beauty category.

Market Defense continues to support its clients in achieving exceptional results on Amazon and beyond. With services spanning account management, brand protection, logistics, advertising, and creative, Market Defense remains the go-to partner for prestige beauty brands seeking to grow and protect their brand equity.

To dive deeper into the Market Defense Amazon Prime Day 2024 Beauty Report, download the full report here.

For more information about Market Defense and suite of services, visit marketdefense.com.

About Market Defense

Market Defense grows the world's best beauty brands on the marketplaces of Amazon, Walmart, and Mercado Libre. Globally. As the premiere partner for beauty brands, we provide a full suite of services including account management, brand protection, logistics, advertising, and creative solutions, solving the most complex marketplace challenges.

Media Contact:

Vanessa Kuykendall

Chief Engagement Officer

Market Defense

[email protected]

SOURCE Market Defense LLC
Rocky Pontikes (Senior Managing Director, Co-Head of Investment Banking) and Melanie Yermack (Managing Director, Co-Head of Packaging) served as transaction leads

(Senior Managing Director, Co-Head of Investment Banking) and (Managing Director, Co-Head of Packaging) served as transaction leads The Kennedy Group's sale to Inovar Packaging Group represents the tenth packaging transaction Mesirow has completed in the last year, highlighting the firm's expertise and relationships within the broader Packaging industry

CHICAGO, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mesirow is proud to announce that it served as the exclusive financial advisor to The Kennedy Group, LLC ("The Kennedy Group" or the "Company") on its sale to Inovar Packaging Group ("Inovar").

Mesirow Advises The Kennedy Group, LLC on its Sale to Inovar Packaging Group | Rocky Pontikes and Melanie Yermack Served as Transaction Leads

Family-owned and operated since 1974, The Kennedy Group is a premier label and packaging platform with two facilities based in Willoughby, Ohio and Levittown, Pennsylvania. The Kennedy Group has a well-known reputation for being a highly innovative, customer-focused and employee-oriented business. With state-of-the-art pressure sensitive, roll-fed and RFID capabilities, the Company focuses on accounts in the beverage, agriculture, automotive, food, supply chain, health & beauty, industrial and household industries.

"We are excited to bring The Kennedy Group's 50 years of industry leadership to partner with Inovar. We believe combining these two companies under one platform creates a best-in-class organization," said Mike, Pat and Todd Kennedy, leaders of The Kennedy Group. "Mesirow's relationships and credibility in the label sector were crucial in delivering an ideal partner and exceptional outcome for The Kennedy Group's stakeholders, employees and valued customers."

Rocky Pontikes, Senior Managing Director and Co-Head of Investment Banking commented, "We were pleased to represent the Kennedys in this transaction." Melanie Yermack, Managing Director and Co-Head of Packaging added, "We continue to see strong interest in the label sector. The Kennedy Group's reputation, technical expertise and strong customer relationships differentiate the Company and yielded significant interest. We look forward to following The Kennedy Group's continued success in partnership with Inovar."

The sale of The Kennedy Group represents another successful label transaction completed by Mesirow Investment Banking. Mesirow is one of the most active advisors in the packaging industry, having completed more than 200 transactions in the last 25 years. By leveraging extensive sector-specific expertise across industry groups and nurturing deep longstanding relationships, Mesirow has amassed a proven track record of highly tailored and successful transactions on behalf of its clients.

About Mesirow

Mesirow is an independent, employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937. Headquartered in Chicago, with locations around the world, we serve clients through a personal, custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good. With capabilities spanning Global Investment Management, Capital Markets & Investment Banking, and Advisory Services, we invest in what matters: our clients, our communities and our culture. To learn more, visit mesirow.com and follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to Spark, our quarterly newsletter.

Mesirow has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Crain's Chicago Business multiple times and is one of Barron's Top 100 RIA firms.

About The Kennedy Group

Headquartered in Willoughby, Ohio, with two sites in Ohio and one site in Levittown, Pennsylvania, The Kennedy Group is a family owned and operated business since 1974. A leader in providing market-tested and innovative labeling solutions to help customers package, promote, identify, and track their products. The Company builds long-term strategic relationships with its customers, provides a collaborative work environment for all its valued employees to thrive, and a philosophy of continuous improvement in all that they do.

About Inovar Packaging Group

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and with 11 locations nationally, Inovar Packaging Group is known for producing innovative prime labels, shrink sleeves, and extended content solutions to some of the nation's top brands. The Company is focused on delivering meaningful value for its customers, a great place to work for its employees, and transparent long-term relationships with its partners, ultimately to drive sustainable, market-leading growth for the company.

Media

[email protected]

Michael Herley | 203.308.1409

Nothing contained herein constitutes an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy an interest in any Mesirow investment vehicle(s). Mesirow Financial, Inc. is not affiliated with The Kennedy Group, Inovar Packaging Group or their affiliates. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Mesirow refers to Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc. and its divisions, subsidiaries and affiliates. The Mesirow name and logo are registered service marks of Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc.  2024. All rights reserved. Securities offered through Mesirow Financial, Inc. member FINRA, SIPC.

2022 Crain's Best Places to Work (Received August 2022 reflective of previous 12 months  Licensing fees paid post award for use of the ranking). Best Companies Group (BCG), an independent workplace excellence research firm, conducted a two-part survey. Part one, consisted of an employer questionnaire, used to collect information about benefits, policies, practices, and other general information. Part two was a confidential 77-question employee survey used to evaluate local employee's workplace experience and culture. Rankings and/or recognition by unaffiliated rating services and/or publications are not indicative of a firm's future performance nor do they evaluate the quality of services provided to clients or guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if Mesirow is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services, nor should they be construed as a current or past endorsement of Mesirow by any of its clients.

2023 Barron's Top RIAs (Received September 2023 for the year 2022  Licensing fees paid post award for use of the ranking). In order to be considered for the Barron's 2023 Top RIA Firms list, applicants were required to complete a 145-question survey, with the firm's ADV informing the majority of responses. Firms were also required to meet a number of other specified requirements to be eligible for inclusion. Firms were ranked based on various qualitative and quantitative factors, including assets managed, the size and experience of teams, regulatory records of the advisors and firms, technology spending, staff diversity, organic and M&A growth, client segmentation as well as succession planning.

SOURCE Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc.
NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global nachos market size is estimated to grow by USD 1.78 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.63% during the forecast period. Growth of organized retail sector is driving market growth, with a trend towards growing prominence for online shopping. However, need for adherence to stringent regulations and guidelines poses a challenge. Key market players include AMICA CHIPS Spa, Arca Continental SAB de CV, Axium Foods Inc., Bahlsen GmbH and Co. KG, Balance Foods Inc., Conagra Brands Inc., Cornitos, General Mills Inc., ITC Ltd., Kellogg Co., Kelly Ges.mbH, Nacho King Corp., Old Dutch Foods Ltd., Orenda Foods Pvt. Ltd., PepsiCo Inc., Ricos Products Co., San Carlo Gruppo Alimentare SpA, The Good Bean Inc., The Hershey Co., and Universal Robina Corp..

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global nachos 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 (Baked and Fried), Application (Commercial and Household), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa) Region Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled AMICA CHIPS Spa, Arca Continental SAB de CV, Axium Foods Inc., Bahlsen GmbH and Co. KG, Balance Foods Inc., Conagra Brands Inc., Cornitos, General Mills Inc., ITC Ltd., Kellogg Co., Kelly Ges.mbH, Nacho King Corp., Old Dutch Foods Ltd., Orenda Foods Pvt. Ltd., PepsiCo Inc., Ricos Products Co., San Carlo Gruppo Alimentare SpA, The Good Bean Inc., The Hershey Co., and Universal Robina Corp.

Key Market Trends Fueling Growth

The e-commerce sector has significantly driven the growth of the global nachos market in the last decade. Consumers can now access a wide range of regional and international packaged nachos brands through online retailers. The increasing number of e-commerce vendors worldwide is attributed to the widespread use of smartphones. Major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay are key global sellers of nachos. E-commerce offers personalized shopping experiences, allowing consumers to compare and choose nachos based on preferences. Reviews from previous buyers aid new consumers in making informed decisions. Eliminating the need for physical stores and merchandising, e-commerce enables vendors to offer discounts directly to consumers. Though traditional distribution channels remain dominant, online sales are projected to expand rapidly during the forecast period due to competitive pricing and quick delivery services.

Nachos, the beloved Mexican dish, is currently trending as a popular choice for shareable appetizers and party snacks. Both fried and baked versions are readily available in various forms, including ready-to-eat kits and packaged products. Convenience stores, hypermarkets and supermarkets, departmental stores, online retail, and e-commerce websites all stock a wide range of nacho offerings. Key ingredients like maize germ and corn starch are used to create tortilla chips, a staple in nacho preparation. Toppings such as cheese, cheese sauce, jalapenos, black beans, olives, and barbecue sauce add flavor and texture. Brands like Kazoo Snacks and Barnana offer plantain chips and avocado oil as alternative options. Nachos can even serve as a main course with the addition of protein sources like Putin nachos or popcorn for extra crunch. Overall, the versatility and convenience of nachos make them a go-to choice for various occasions.

Discover 360 analysis of this market. For complete information, schedule your consultation- Book Here!

Market Challenges

The global nachos market faces challenges due to stringent government regulations on nachos manufacturing. These regulations focus on food safety, business operations, insurance, and fire safety, requiring significant investments from manufacturers. Compliance involves financial obligations such as licensing, permits, and mandatory food safety training. Standards like ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, IFS Food, and BRC Food Standards are relevant. IFS Food assesses product and process quality, while FSSC 22000 emphasizes a robust food safety management system. In EU countries, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) sets rules, and in India , the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible. Compliance is crucial to protect brand image but can negatively impact market growth during the forecast period.

, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of (FSSAI) is responsible. Compliance is crucial to protect brand image but can negatively impact market growth during the forecast period. Nachos Market: Navigating Diverse Demands in Fast-food and Beyond The nachos market faces various challenges in catering to diverse consumer preferences. Fast-food chains grapple with accommodating vegetarians and non-vegetarians through options like refried bean toppings and ground beef or shredded chicken. Health-conscious consumers seek nutrient-dense vegetables, beans, and avocados, while limiting saturated unhealthy fats. Meanwhile, vegetarians and vegans request alternatives to meat, such as beans or low-fat cheese protein. Restaurants and stadium concession stands offer baked nachos as a healthier alternative to fried, while export duties impact pricing and availability. Mexican cuisine enthusiasts enjoy international flavors through ingredients like Cheddar, Monterey Jack, tomatoes, jalapenos, black olives, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Households and quick-service outlets use a broiler or oven for preparation, while microwaves simplify convenience for busy consumers. The foodservice industry continues to evolve, with cafes, food trucks, and foodservice outlets expanding the nachos market. Ignacio Anaya's creation remains a beloved food experience for food enthusiasts worldwide.

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Segment Overview

This nachos market report extensively covers market segmentation by

Product

1.1 Baked

1.2 Fried

Application

2.1 Commercial

2.2 Household

Geography

3.1 North America

3.2 Europe

3.3 APAC

3.4 South America

3.5 Middle East and Africa

1.1 Baked- The baked nachos segment dominated the nachos market in 2023, accounting for the largest market share. This growth can be attributed to the increasing health-conscious consumer trend worldwide. Baked nachos are a preferred choice due to their lower oil content, making them a doctor-recommended option. Moreover, they are estimated to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period from 2023 to 2028. Lightweight and low in calories, baked nachos have a low glycemic index (GI), making them a healthier alternative. Homemade tortilla chips, the base for baked nachos, can be prepared without nuts for consumers with allergies. The controlled use of ingredients further adds to their appeal.

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Research Analysis

Nachos, a beloved Mexican dish, are known for their delicious combination of crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, cheese sauce, and various toppings. The dish's origins are unclear, but Ignacio Anaya is often credited as its inventor. Tortilla chips, a key component, are made from maize germ or corn starch and can be found in various flavors. Toppings can include jalapenos, tomatoes, black olives, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and more. Cheese options range from Cheddar to Monterey Jack, and other snacks like plantain chips can be served alongside. Avocado oil is commonly used for cooking, and cheese sauces can be made with a variety of ingredients like black beans and olives. Kazoo Snacks and Barnana are among the brands that offer delicious versions of this popular snack or appetizer, which can also serve as a main course when topped with enough toppings.

Market Research Overview

Nachos, a beloved Mexican dish, are renowned for their delightful blend of crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and an array of tantalizing toppings. This snack or appetizer can transform into a main course with the addition of nutrient-dense vegetables, beans, avocados, and proteins like ground beef or shredded chicken. Jalapenos, black olives, and other zesty toppings add a burst of flavor, while cheese sauce, barbecue sauce, and Putin sauce offer various international flavor experiences. Nachos cater to diverse palates, including vegetarians, non-vegetarians, and health-conscious consumers. For those seeking low-fat options, opt for low-fat cheese or nutrient-dense vegetables. Fast-food chains, restaurants, stadium concession stands, cafes, food trucks, and quick-service outlets serve nachos as shareable appetizers or party snacks. Preparation methods vary, from broiling in a restaurant oven to microwaving at home. Export duties and various cooking techniques impact the price and availability of nachos worldwide. Nacho kits, packaged products, and convenience stores offer easy-to-prepare options for busy consumers. Online platforms, hypermarkets, supermarkets, departmental stores, and e-commerce websites provide easy access to this popular snack. Innovations in the food industry include Kazoo Snacks' maize germ and corn starch-based alternatives to traditional tortilla chips, offering a healthier option for nacho lovers. Food experiences and foodservice industry trends continue to evolve, keeping this classic dish a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

Product

Baked



Fried

Application

Commercial



Household

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

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REDDING, Calif., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new market research report titled 'Network Security Firewall Market by Component (Solutions, Services), Type (Unified Threat Management, Next-Generation Firewall), Deployment Mode, Organization Size, and Sector (BFSI, Retail, and Other Sectors) and GeographyGlobal Forecast to 2031', the network security firewall market is projected to reach $19.8 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 20.6% from 2024 to 2031.

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A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming & outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Either hardware, software, or a combination of both. The firewall establishes a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks such as the internet. Its job is to permit legitimate outward communications while blocking unauthorized access, in order to keep hackers and viruses from reaching a single computer or a network of devices.

The growth of the network security firewall market is primarily driven by the rising government regulations encouraging the demand for network security firewalls, the growing significance of network security firewall solutions in the BFSI sector, the increasing demand for network security and privacy, and the advancement of digital transformation in the telecommunications industry. However, lack of preventive firewall maintenance restrain the growth of this market.

Moreover, the growing need for network security firewall solutions among SMEs and increasing adoption of network security firewall solutions in healthcare sector are expected to generate growth opportunities for the players operating in this market. However, misconceptions and lack of knowledge regarding network security firewall solutions are major challenges impacting the growth of the network security firewall market. Furthermore, the zero trust security model is a prominent trend in the network security firewall market.

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The network security firewall market is segmented by component (solutions {signaling firewall [SS7 firewall, diameter firewall, other signaling firewall solutions], SMS firewall [A2P messaging, P2A messaging]}, services (professional services, managed services), type (packet filtering, stateful inspection firewall, next-generation firewall, unified threat management), deployment mode (on-premise deployments and cloud-based deployments), organization size (large enterprises and small & medium-sized enterprises), sector (BFSI, retail, IT & telecommunications, government, healthcare, and other sectors). The study also evaluates industry competitors and analyzes the market at the regional and country levels.

Based on component, the network security firewall market is segmented into the solutions and services. In 2024, the solutions segment is expected to account for the larger share of around 58.0% of the network security firewall market. The segment's large share is attributed to the increasing focus on solution-centric security capabilities, growing cybercrime & cyber espionage, and growing investment in R&D to improve network security firewall solutions. In addition, the benefits associated with network security firewall solutions, such as advanced threat detection, monitoring network traffic, stopping virus attacks, stopping spyware, and preventing unauthorized access, further support the growth of this segment. However, the services segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Based on type, the network security firewall market is segmented into packet filtering, stateful inspection firewall, next-generation firewall, and unified threat management. In 2024, the unified threat management segment is expected to account for the largest share of around 34.0% of the network security firewall market. The segment's large share is attributed to the rising demand for UTM to counter increasing threats associated with unauthorized access and data thefts, the growing adoption of advanced security methods in the corporate sectors, and rising data security breaches. Also, this segment is expected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period 20242031.

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Based on organization size, the network security firewall market is segmented into large enterprises and small & medium-sized enterprises. In 2024, the large enterprises segment is expected to account for the larger share of the network security firewall market. This segment's large market share is attributed to its strong infrastructure and management of network security platforms by skilled IT personnel. Furthermore, large enterprises focus on desired security channels against cyber threats to retain customers, boost sales, and validate necessary steps to overcome market interruptions. However, the small & medium enterprises segment is expected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period.

Based on deployment mode, the network security firewall market is segmented into on-premise deployments and cloud-based deployments. In 2024, the on-premise deployments segment is expected to account for the larger share of the network security firewall market. The large market share of this segment is attributed to the greater control of network security infrastructure offered by on-premise solutions, the high preference for on-premise deployments among large enterprises, and the availability of trained IT professionals and supportive infrastructure. However, the cloud-based deployments segment is slated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Based on sector, the network security firewall market is segmented into the BFSI, retail, IT & telecommunications, government, healthcare, and other sectors. In 2024, the IT & telecommunications sector is expected to account for the largest share of around 22.0% of the network security firewall market. The large market share of this segment is attributed to the increasing demand for filtering & monitoring network traffic, the growing need for network security and privacy, the rising need to protect connected network infrastructure, and the advancement of digital transformation in the telecommunications industry. However, the healthcare segment is projected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Based on geography, the network security firewall market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. In 2024, North America is expected to account for the largest share of the around 38.0% of the network security firewall market. The presence of prominent network security firewall players, including Juniper Networks, Inc. (U.S.), Mobileum Inc. (U.S.), and Cisco Systems, Inc. (U.S.), is expected to contribute to the high revenue share of this region. In addition, the high adoption rate of network security firewall solutions to enhance its IT infrastructure and the rising need to protect connected network infrastructure drive the demand for network security firewall solutions in the region. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the highest CAGR of 23.5% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The key players operating in the network security firewall market are Cisco Systems, Inc. (U.S.), Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (Israel), Mobileum Inc. (U.S.), Juniper Networks, Inc. (U.S.), Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (U.S.), Fortinet, Inc. (U.S.), Openmind Networks Limited (Ireland), Anam Technologies Ltd. (Ireland), Cellusys Limited. (Ireland), Sophos Ltd. (U.K.), Route Mobile Limited (India), SonicWall Inc. (U.S.), Enea AB (Sweden), and Forcepoint LLC. (U.S.).

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Scope of the Report:

Network Security Firewall Market Assessmentby Component

Solutions Signaling Firewall SS7 Firewall Diameter Firewall Other Signaling Firewall Solutions SMS Firewall A2P Messaging P2A Messaging

Services Professional Services Managed Services



Network Security Firewall Market Assessmentby Type

Packet Filtering

Stateful Inspection Firewall

Next-Generation Firewall

Unified Threat Management

Network Security Firewall Market Assessmentby Organization Size

Large Enterprises

Small & Medium-sized Enterprises

Network Security Firewall Market Assessmentby Deployment Mode

On-premise Deployments

Cloud-based Deployments

Network Security Firewall Market Assessmentby Sector

BFSI

Retail

Government

IT & Telecommunications

Healthcare

Other Sectors

Network Security Firewall Market Assessmentby Geography

North America U.S. Canada

Europe U.K. Germany France Spain Italy Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific China Japan India Singapore South Korea Rest of Asia-Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa

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Related Reports:

Cybersecurity Market by Offering (Solutions, Services), Security Type (Network Security, Cloud Security, Endpoint Security), Organization Size, Deployment Mode, Sector (BFSI, Retail & E-commerce, Healthcare) and GeographyGlobal Forecast to 2031.

Cybersecurity Services Market by Type, Organization Size, Security Type, Sector (BFSI, Healthcare, Government, IT & Telecommunications, and Other Sectors)Global Forecast to 2030.

Cybersecurity-as-a-Service Market by Application (Network Security, Cloud Security, Endpoint Security, Application Security), Organization Size, Sector (BFSI, IT & Telecommunications, Retail, Healthcare), and GeographyGlobal Forecast to 2030.

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SOURCE Meticulous Market Research Pvt. Ltd.
The partnership will allow Pacific Oaks College to provide Transitional Kindergarten training and professional development to educators across the San Gabriel area

PASADENA, Calif., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pacific Oaks College announced a dynamic collaboration with the San Gabriel Consortium, aimed at elevating Transitional Kindergarten education within the consortium's school districts. As part of this partnership, Pacific Oaks will provide professional development training for Transitional Kindergarten teachers that incorporates its values of social justice, inclusion, diversity, and respect into the curriculum and teaching methodologies.

The San Gabriel Consortium, consisting of San Gabriel, Rosemead, South Pasadena, and Temple City school districts, has been awarded a grant totaling $500,000 through the California Department of Education's Early Education Teacher Development Grant Program. This funding will be instrumental in advancing Transitional Kindergarten education across the consortium's schools.

"We are excited to embark on this journey to support teachers working in Transitional Kindergarten education," says Dr. Jerell Hill, dean of the School of Education at Pacific Oaks College. "For more than 75 years, Pacific Oaks has served as a national leader in teacher preparation and early childhood education. This partnership allows us to provide essential training to help transform local Transitional Kindergarten education, fostering a sense of exploration, creativity and respect in children."

Beginning in 2025, Transitional Kindergarten will be required in all California public school districts and will serve as a bridge between preschool and traditional kindergarten. These programs offer an additional year of public schooling for four-year-olds and provide them with a valuable opportunity to develop social, emotional, and academic skills before entering kindergarten. Moreover, recent research from the Public Policy Institute of California demonstrates the benefits of Transitional Kindergarten in identifying English Learner students and students with special education needs earlier in a child's life.

With Pacific Oaks' expertise in early childhood education and focus on hands-on, interactive learning, this partnership aims to strengthen Transitional Kindergarten education in the region and equip educators with the tools they need to be successful in the classroom. It will provide approximately 75-100 current educators and paraeducators with comprehensive training, professional development sessions, and coursework tailored specifically for Transitional Kindergarten teachers. These sessions will both equip educators with practical skills and instill a deep understanding of diverse perspectives and inclusive practices.

"We are excited about the opportunity to enrich the educational experience of our youngest learners through this partnership," says Dr. Joan Perez, assistant superintendent of educational services for San Gabriel Unified School District. "The collaboration with Pacific Oaks brings an expertise in innovative and progressive teaching practices that will undoubtedly inspire our educators."

Monthly sessions and a summer seminar will provide ongoing support and enrichment opportunities for participating teachers. Additionally, Pacific Oaks will launch a cohort program, welcoming 10-12 aspiring educators committed to early childhood education within the consortium.

In recent years, Pacific Oaks has built partnerships throughout the state to support local districts and create a pipeline of qualified teachers. Most recently, the college partnered with Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) to develop an innovative tuition-free residency program in which each graduate will be offered a three-year employment contract to work full-time within SCOE.

Pacific Oaks is part of The Community Solution Education System, a nonprofit education system made up of six colleges and universities that uses shared infrastructure and collaboration to drive innovation and advance student outcomes. Since joining The Community Solution in 2010, Pacific Oaks has expanded educational offerings to include more than 20 academic areas including social work, community psychology, and organizational leadership.

For more information, school districts and organizations interested in partnering with Pacific Oaks should contact Dr. Thomas Cobos, Executive Director of Outreach at Pacific Oaks, at [email protected] or (626) 529-8092.

About Pacific Oaks College & Children's School

Founded in 1945, Pacific Oaks College & Children's School is composed of two educational entities. Pacific Oaks College is a nonprofit, institutionally accredited higher education institution offering bachelor's and master's programs in human development, marriage and family therapy, education, early childhood education, teacher preparation, social work, community psychology, business administration, and organizational leadership and management. Pacific Oaks Children's School provides early childhood education programs for children ages 6 months through 5 years and has pioneered achievements in the areas of anti-bias education, emergent curriculum, and peaceful conflict resolution. Pacific Oaks is a proud member of The Community Solution Education System, an integrated nonprofit system of colleges and universities working together to advance student success and community impact.

SOURCE Pacific Oaks College & Children's School
TORONTO and DALLAS, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc. (TSXV: PINK) (OTC: PYNKF) (FSE: 4PC) ("Perimeter" or the "Company"), a commercial-stage medical technology company, announced it will report its second quarter 2024 financial and operating results after market close on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. Following the announcement, Perimeter management will host a webcast and conference call to discuss the results and provide a corporate update.

Second Quarter 2024 Results Conference Call Details:

Date: Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Time: 5:00 pm Eastern Time

Dial-In Numbers: 1-800-717-1738 (Canada and the United States) or 1-646-307-1865 (International)

The call will also be broadcast live and archived on the Company's website under "News/Events" in the Investors section.

About Perimeter Medical Imaging AI, Inc.

Based in Toronto, Canada and Dallas, Texas, Perimeter Medical Imaging AI (TSX-V: PINK) (OTC: PYNKF) (FSE: 4PC) is a medical technology company driven to transform cancer surgery with ultra-high-resolution, real-time, advanced imaging tools to address areas of high unmet medical need. Available across the U.S., our FDA-cleared Perimeter S-Series OCT system provides real-time, cross-sectional visualization of excised tissues at the cellular level. The breakthrough-device-designated investigational Perimeter B-Series OCT with ImgAssist AI represents our next-generation artificial intelligence technology that is currently being evaluated in a pivotal clinical trial, with support from a grant of up to US$7.4 million awarded by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. The company's ticker symbol "PINK" is a reference to the pink ribbons used during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. In this news release, words such as "may," "would," "could," "will," "likely," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "estimate," and similar words and the negative form thereof are used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information may relate to management's future outlook and anticipated events or results and may include statements or information regarding the future financial position, business strategy and strategic goals, competitive conditions, research and development activities, projected costs and capital expenditures, research and clinical testing outcomes, taxes and plans and objectives of, or involving, Perimeter. Without limitation, information regarding the potential benefits of Perimeter S-Series OCT, Perimeter B-Series OCT, and Perimeter ImgAssist are forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether, or the times at or by which, any particular result will be achieved. No assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking information will transpire or occur. Forward-looking information is based on information available at the time and/or management's good-faith belief with respect to future events and are subject to known or unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond Perimeter's control. Such forward-looking statements reflect Perimeter's current view with respect to future events, but are inherently subject to significant medical, scientific, business, economic, competitive, political, and social uncertainties and contingencies. In making forward-looking statements, Perimeter may make various material assumptions, including but not limited to (i) the accuracy of Perimeter's financial projections; (ii) obtaining positive results from trials; (iii) obtaining necessary regulatory approvals; and (iv) general business, market, and economic conditions. Further risks, uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, those applicable to Perimeter and described in Perimeter's Management Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is available on Perimeter's SEDAR+ profile at https://www.sedarplus.ca, and could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. Perimeter does not intend, nor does Perimeter undertake any obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information contained in this news release to reflect subsequent information, events, or circumstances or otherwise, except if required by applicable laws.

CONTACT:

Stephen Kilmer

Investor Relations

Telephone: 888-545-6374 or 647-872-4849

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Perimeter Medical Imaging AI Inc.
OSLO, Norway, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Photocure ASA (OSE: PHO), The Bladder Cancer Company, today reported Hexvix/Cysview revenues of NOK 122.4 million in the second quarter of 2024 (Q2 2023: NOK 115.9 million) and EBITDA of NOK 27.8 million (NOK 23.4 million). Photocure reiterates its 2024 financial guidance of product revenue growth of 6% to 9% in constant currency and positive EBITDA excluding business development expenses. Photocure now expects new and upgraded Saphira installations in the U.S. in the range of 55 to 70 towers for the full year, up from the previous range of 40 to 70 towers.

"Photocure had a productive second quarter as we delivered Hexvix/Cysview revenue growth of 6% year-over-year and EBITDA of NOK 27.8 million. Year-to-date, we have reported 8% revenue growth, on track with our top-line guidance for the year. Once again, both our North American and European business segments had positive contributions during the period as we continue to grow revenues and contain our expenses. We also initiated key business development activities to accelerate our growth in the coming quarters and years," says Dan Schneider, President & Chief Executive Officer of Photocure.

Photocure reported total group revenues of NOK 145.4 million in the second quarter of 2024 (NOK 144.3 million), and EBITDA* of NOK 27.8 million (NOK 23.4 million), driven by revenue growth and a milestone payment from Asieris for the NDA acceptance of Cevira in China. Hexvix/Cysview revenues were NOK 122.4 million in the quarter (Q2 2023: NOK 115.9 million). The EBIT was NOK 20.7 million (NOK 16.8 million) and the cash balance at the end of the period was NOK 267.0 million.

"During the second quarter, 20 new Saphira towers were installed including 5 new account placements, 3 accounts that upgraded to Saphira, and 12 mobile BLC towers delivered to ForTec Medical. High-definition Saphira systems now represent approximately 46% of the installed base of rigid BLC towers in the U.S. In early June, we announced our mobile tower initiative in the U.S. market, aligned with an agreement between ForTec and Karl Storz to provide on-demand Saphira BLC equipment to ForTec's vast network of hospital customers. ForTec is in the process of rolling out the program nationally, and we look forward to working with them to expand access to BLC procedures in the U.S.," Schneider adds.

At the end of the second quarter of 2024, the installed base of rigid BLC systems in the U.S. was 381, up 17% from the same period in 2023. This includes 18 mobile towers owned by ForTec Medical. In the U.S. 25 flexible BLC towers remain active. After the closing of the quarter, Photocure entered into an agreement with Richard Wolf to develop and globally commercialize a high-definition blue light flexible cystoscope.

"Turning to potential drivers of our long-term growth, we were very pleased to announce our partnership with Richard Wolf to develop and commercialize a state of the art high-definition flexible blue light system. Richard Wolf is a premier manufacturer of endoscopy equipment, and our partnership is focused on ensuring that physicians and patients have reliable access to state-of-the-art, high quality BLC in the surveillance setting. Given the number of new non-muscle invasive bladder cancer therapeutics that have, or are expected to enter the market, we believe that BLC technology will be more important than ever to properly identify, stage and manage bladder cancer patients. As we head into the second half of this year, we remain focused on accelerating the growth of our Hexvix/Cysview franchise, leveraging our established commercial infrastructure, and executing on the many initiatives and activities that can take Photocure to the next level," Schneider concludes.

Photocure believes that the benefits of Blue Light Cystoscopy with Hexvix/Cysview offering superior detection and management of bladder cancer will continue to be adopted and become the standard of care. The Company reiterates its 2024 financial guidance and continues to expect consolidated product revenue growth of 6% to 9% in constant currency and positive EBITDA excluding business development expenses. Photocure now expects new and upgraded Saphira installations in the U.S. in the range of 55 to 70 towers, up from the previous range of 40 to 70 towers for the full year.

Please find the full financial report and presentation enclosed.

EBITDA* and other alternative performance measures (APMs) are defined and reconciled to the IFRS financial statements as a part of the APM section of the second quarter 2024 financial report on page 25.

The quarterly report and presentation will be published at 08:00 CEST and will be publicly available at www.photocure.com. Dan Schneider, CEO and Erik Dahl, CFO, will host a live webcast at 14:00 CEST.

The presentation will be held in English and questions can be submitted throughout the event. The streaming event is available through https://channel.royalcast.com/landingpage/hegnarmedia/20240807_1/

The presentation is scheduled to conclude at 14:45 CEST.

For further information, please contact:

Dan Schneider

President and CEO

Photocure ASA

Email: [email protected]

Erik Dahl

Chief Financial Officer

Tel: +47 450 55 000

Email: [email protected]

David Moskowitz

Vice President of Investor Relations

Tel: +1 202 280 0888

Email: [email protected]

Media and IR enquiries:

Geir Bjrlo

Corporate Communications (Norway)

Tel: +47 91540000

Email: [email protected]

About Photocure ASA

Photocure: The Bladder Cancer Company delivers transformative solutions to improve the lives of bladder cancer patients. Our unique technology, making cancer cells glow bright pink, has led to better health outcomes for patients worldwide. Photocure is headquartered in Oslo, Norway and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSE: PHO). For more information, please visit us at www.photocure.com, www.cysview.com

All trademarks mentioned in this release are protected by law and are registered trademarks of Photocure ASA.

This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This stock exchange announcement was published by Tolv Hillestad, Group Controller, Photocure ASA, on 7 August 2024 at 08:00 CEST.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/photocure/r/photocure-asa--results-for-the-second-quarter-of-2024,c4021744

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/17498/4021744/2935277.pdf Release https://mb.cision.com/Public/17498/4021744/a2915a2f46a05ba0.pdf 2Q2024 Presentation https://mb.cision.com/Public/17498/4021744/a6b97b4c3595c2c7.pdf Q2 2024 report

SOURCE Photocure
FORT WORTH, Texas, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PHX MINERALS INC., "PHX" or the "Company" (NYSE: PHX), today reported financial and operating results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Summary of Results for the Quarter Ended June 30, 2024

Net income was $1.3 million , or $0.04 per diluted share, compared to net loss of ($0.2) million , or ($0.01) per diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2024 .

, or per diluted share, compared to net loss of , or per diluted share, for the quarter ended . Adjusted EBITDA (1) was $6.4 million , compared to $4.6 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024 .

was , compared to for the quarter ended . Royalty production volumes increased 46%, to a quarterly record 2,709 Mmcfe, compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2024 , as a result of high interest high impact wells coming online in the Haynesville.

, as a result of high interest high impact wells coming online in the Haynesville. Total production volumes increased 40% compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2024 to 2,968 Mmcfe, the highest quarterly production for PHX since the quarter ended June 30, 2018 .

to 2,968 Mmcfe, the highest quarterly production for PHX since the quarter ended . Converted 55 gross (0.40 net) wells to producing status, compared to a conversion of 85 gross (0.32 net) wells to producing status during the quarter ended March 31, 2024 .

. Inventory of 241 gross (0.927 net) wells in progress and permits as of June 30, 2024 , compared to 230 gross (1.099 net) wells in progress and permits as of March 31, 2024 .

, compared to 230 gross (1.099 net) wells in progress and permits as of . Total debt was $28.8 million , down $4.0 million since December 31, 2023 , and the debt-to-adjusted EBITDA (TTM) (1) ratio was 1.32x at June 30, 2024 .

Subsequent Events

PHX announced a 33% increase in its fixed quarterly dividend to $0.04 per share, payable on Sep. 6, 2024 , to stockholders of record on Aug. 23, 2024 .

(1)

This is a non-GAAP measure. Refer to the Non-GAAP Reconciliation section.







Chad L. Stephens, President and CEO, commented, "The operational and financial results for the second quarter again provide compelling evidence about the quality of our asset base. Royalty production reached record levels during the quarter, and we had a strong conversion of high interest high impact wells driving robust quarter-over-quarter production growth. As we have explained in prior quarters, our royalty volumes can be lumpy depending on the timing of these high interest high impact wells. Our wells in progress metric remains strong, including several other high interest high impact wells. This demonstrates the continued operator activity on our minerals, despite the dramatic year over year decrease in the rig count impacted by the current commodity price environment. We do not control pace of development or well completion timing, thus, we expect continued quarterly lumpiness in our volumes."

"Our strong cash generation enabled us to reduce our debt by another $2 million, lowering our debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio from 1.58x to 1.32x further strengthening our balance sheet," continued Mr. Stephens. "Our financial performance enabled us to again increase our quarterly cash dividend, which has now risen 400% since early 2020. Our financial strength also provides the necessary liquidity to further explore the acquisition of premium mineral assets."

Financial Highlights





Three Months

Ended



Three Months

Ended



Six Months Ended



Six Months Ended





June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023

Royalty Interest Sales

$ 8,818,964



$ 6,217,663



$ 14,995,239



$ 16,341,404

Working Interest Sales

$ 1,007,042



$ 1,013,501



$ 1,920,975



$ 2,747,007

Natural Gas, Oil and NGL Sales

$ 9,826,006



$ 7,231,164



$ 16,916,214



$ 19,088,411



























Gains (Losses) on Derivative Contracts

$ (418,997)



$ 183,006



$ 208,495



$ 3,985,826

Lease Bonuses and Rental Income

$ 134,226



$ 111,991



$ 285,944



$ 425,141

Total Revenue

$ 9,541,235



$ 7,526,161



$ 17,410,653



$ 23,499,378



























Lease Operating Expense























per Working Interest Mcfe

$ 1.14



$ 1.16



$ 1.21



$ 1.34

Transportation, Gathering and























Marketing per Mcfe

$ 0.52



$ 0.39



$ 0.47



$ 0.43

Production and Ad Valorem Tax























per Mcfe

$ 0.20



$ 0.19



$ 0.19



$ 0.21

G&A Expense per Mcfe

$ 0.92



$ 1.38



$ 1.20



$ 1.29

Cash G&A Expense per Mcfe (1)

$ 0.69



$ 1.07



$ 0.92



$ 1.01

Interest Expense per Mcfe

$ 0.22



$ 0.23



$ 0.27



$ 0.23

DD&A per Mcfe

$ 0.76



$ 0.96



$ 0.91



$ 0.86

Total Expense per Mcfe

$ 2.72



$ 3.30



$ 3.16



$ 3.21



























Net Income (Loss)

$ 1,295,771



$ (41,291)



$ 1,112,156



$ 9,511,953

Adjusted EBITDA (2)

$ 6,426,167



$ 4,086,707



$ 11,033,201



$ 11,826,947



























Cash Flow from Operations (3)

$ 4,176,704



$ 4,915,788



$ 9,423,355



$ 13,849,265

CapEx (4)

$ 28,286



$ 84,593



$ 35,726



$ 275,419

CapEx - Mineral Acquisitions

$ 871,930



$ 1,677,388



$ 2,278,178



$ 11,914,003



























Borrowing Base













$ 50,000,000



$ 45,000,000

Debt













$ 28,750,000



$ 23,750,000

Debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA (TTM) (2)















1.32





0.93











(1) Cash G&A expense is G&A excluding restricted stock and deferred director's expense from the adjusted EBITDA table in the non-GAAP Reconciliation section.

(2) This is a non-GAAP measure. Refer to the Non-GAAP Reconciliation section.

(3) GAAP cash flow from operations.

(4) Includes legacy working interest expenditures and fixtures and equipment.

Operating Highlights



Three Months

Ended



Three Months

Ended



Six Months Ended



Six Months Ended



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023

Gas Mcf Sold

2,464,846





1,854,485





4,164,955





3,813,496

Average Sales Price per Mcf before the





















effects of settled derivative contracts $ 2.05



$ 1.92



$ 2.07



$ 2.75

Average Sales Price per Mcf after the





















effects of settled derivative contracts $ 2.57



$ 2.49



$ 2.78



$ 3.18

% of sales subject to hedges

38 %



45 %



48 %



47 % Oil Barrels Sold

51,828





41,009





89,088





95,116

Average Sales Price per Bbl before the





















effects of settled derivative contracts $ 77.38



$ 73.87



$ 76.81



$ 75.09

Average Sales Price per Bbl after the





















effects of settled derivative contracts $ 75.38



$ 73.80



$ 75.72



$ 71.58

% of sales subject to hedges

25 %



53 %



30 %



49 % NGL Barrels Sold

31,994





33,929





64,179





67,033

Average Sales Price per Bbl(1) $ 23.75



$ 18.93



$ 22.63



$ 22.02

























Mcfe Sold

2,967,779





2,304,113





5,084,557





4,786,390

Natural gas, oil and NGL sales before the





















effects of settled derivative contracts $ 9,826,006



$ 7,231,164



$ 16,916,214



$ 19,088,411

Natural gas, oil and NGL sales after the





















effects of settled derivative contracts $ 11,010,613



$ 8,280,104



$ 19,770,130



$ 20,394,028

























(1) There were no NGL settled derivative contracts during the 2024 and 2023 periods.



Total Production for the last four quarters was as follows:

Quarter ended

Mcf Sold



Oil Bbls Sold



NGL Bbls Sold



Mcfe Sold

6/30/2024



2,464,846





51,828





31,994





2,967,779

3/31/2024



1,700,108





37,260





32,184





2,116,776

12/31/2023



1,775,577





39,768





38,422





2,244,717

9/30/2023



1,868,012





48,032





32,029





2,348,378



The percentage of total production volumes attributable to natural gas was 83% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Royalty Interest Production for the last four quarters was as follows:

Quarter ended

Mcf Sold



Oil Bbls Sold



NGL Bbls Sold



Mcfe Sold

6/30/2024



2,304,176





47,024





20,461





2,709,090

3/31/2024



1,533,580





33,083





20,844





1,857,147

12/31/2023



1,590,301





35,547





23,769





1,946,196

9/30/2023



1,689,396





43,575





20,416





2,073,342



The percentage of royalty production volumes attributable to natural gas was 85% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Working Interest Production for the last four quarters was as follows:

Quarter ended

Mcf Sold



Oil Bbls Sold



NGL Bbls Sold



Mcfe Sold

6/30/2024



160,670





4,804





11,533





258,689

3/31/2024



166,528





4,177





11,340





259,629

12/31/2023



185,276





4,221





14,653





298,521

9/30/2023



178,616





4,457





11,613





275,036



Outlook

PHX is providing an updated operational outlook for 2024 as follows:





2023 Actual

YTD 2024 Actual 2024 Outlook Mineral & Royalty Production (Mmcfe)

8,123

4,566 8,700 - 9,100 Working Interest Production (Mmcfe)

1,256

518 1,000 - 1,200 Total Production (Mmcfe)

9,379

5,084 9,700 - 10,300 Percentage Natural Gas

80 %

82 % 79% - 82%











Transportation, Gathering &









Marketing (per Mcfe)

$0.39

$0.47 $0.40 - $0.50 Production Tax (as % of pre-hedge









sales volumes)

5.20 %

5.90 % 5.25% - 6.25% LOE Expenses (on an absolute basis in 000's)

$1,599

$627 $1,100 - $1,300 Cash G&A (on an absolute basis in 000's)

$9,500

$4,683 $9,500 - $9,900

Quarter Ended June 30, 2024 Results

The Company recorded net income of $1.3 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, as compared to net loss of ($0.04) million, or $0.00 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2023. The change in net income was principally the result of increased natural gas, oil and NGL sales, decreased general and administrative expenses, and increased gains on asset sales, partially offset by increased losses associated with our derivative contracts and increased income tax provision.

Natural gas, oil and NGL revenue increased $2.6 million, or 36%, for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023, due to increases in natural gas and oil volumes of 33% and 26%, respectively, and increases in natural gas, oil and NGL prices of 7%, 5%, and 25%, respectively, partially offset by a decrease in NGL volumes of 6%.

The increase in royalty production volumes during the quarter ended June 30, 2024, as compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023, resulted primarily from new wells being brought online in the Haynesville Shale. The production decrease in working interest volumes during the quarter ended June 30, 2024, as compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2023, resulted from natural production decline.

The Company had a net loss on derivative contracts of ($0.4) million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, comprised of a $1.2 million gain on settled derivatives and a ($1.6) million non-cash loss on derivatives, as compared to a net gain of $0.2 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023. The change in net gain on derivative contracts was due to the Company's settlements of natural gas and oil collars and fixed price swaps and the change in valuation caused by the difference in June 30, 2024, pricing relative to the strike price on open derivative contracts.

Six Months Ended June 30, 2024, Results

The Company recorded net income of $1.1 million, or $0.03 per share, for the six months ended June 30, 2024, as compared to a net income of $9.5 million, or $0.26 per share, for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The change in net income was principally the result of a decrease in natural gas, oil and NGL sales, a decrease in gains associated with our hedge contracts, and a decrease in gains on asset sales, partially offset by a decrease in income tax provision.

Natural gas, oil and NGL revenue decreased $2.2 million, or 11%, for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared to the six months ended June 30, 2023, due to decreases in oil and NGL volumes of 6% and 4%, respectively, and a decrease in gas prices of 25%, partially offset by an increase in gas volumes of 9% and increases in oil and NGL prices of 2% and 3%, respectively.

The production increase in royalty volumes during the six months ended June 30, 2024, as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2023, resulted primarily from new wells in the Haynesville Shale coming online. The production decrease in working interest volumes during the six months ended June 30, 2024, as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2023, resulted from natural production decline and divestitures of working interest properties.

The Company had a net gain on derivative contracts of $0.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compromised of a $2.9 million gain on settled derivatives and a $2.6 million non-cash loss on derivatives, as compared to a net gain of $4.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The change in net gain on derivative contracts was due to the Company's settlements of natural gas and oil collars and fixed price swaps and the change in valuation caused by the difference in June 30, 2024 pricing relative to the strike price on open derivative contracts.

Operations Update

During the quarter ended June 30, 2024, the Company converted 55 gross (0.40 net) wells to producing status, including 28 gross (0.30 net) wells in the Haynesville and 14 gross (0.07 net) wells in the SCOOP, compared to 81 gross (0.30 net) wells converted in the quarter ended June 30, 2023.

At June 30, 2024, the Company had a total of 241 gross (0.927 net) wells in progress and permits across its mineral positions, compared to 230 gross (1.099 net) wells in progress and permits at March 31, 2024. As of July 8, 2024, 15 rigs were operating on the Company's acreage and 60 rigs were operating within 2.5 miles of its acreage.















Bakken/







































Three



Arkoma





















SCOOP



STACK



Forks



Stack



Haynesville



Other



Total

As of June 30, 2024:







































Gross Wells in Progress on PHX Acreage (1)

74





7





2





3





58





3





147

Net Wells in Progress on PHX Acreage (1)

0.252





0.009





0.001





0.015





0.296





0.016





0.589

Gross Active Permits on PHX Acreage

35





6





3





7





35





8





94

Net Active Permits on PHX Acreage

0.151





0.007





0.003





0.030





0.112





0.035





0.338











































As of July 8, 2024:







































Rigs Present on PHX Acreage

7





3





-





1





4





-





15

Rigs Within 2.5 Miles of PHX Acreage

10





11





6





1





23





9





60





(1) Wells in progress includes drilling wells and drilled but uncompleted wells, or DUCs.



Leasing Activity

During the quarter ended June 30, 2024, the Company leased 313 net mineral acres to third-party exploration and production companies for an average bonus payment of $550 per net mineral acre and an average royalty of 24%.

Acquisition and Divestiture Update

During the quarter ended June 30, 2024, the Company purchased 96 net royalty acres for approximately $0.9 million and sold 1,005 acres, which were outside the Company's core focus areas and predominately undeveloped and unleased, for approximately $0.5 million.





Acquisitions





SCOOP



Haynesville



Other



Total

During Three Months Ended June 30, 2024:























Net Mineral Acres Purchased



35





21





-





56

Net Royalty Acres Purchased



58





38





-





96



Quarterly Conference Call

PHX will host a conference call to discuss the Company's results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, at 11 a.m. EDT on Aug. 8, 2024. Management's discussion will be followed by a question-and-answer session with investors.

To participate on the conference call, please dial 877-407-3088 (toll-free domestic) or 201-389-0927. A replay of the call will be available for 14 days after the call. The number to access the replay of the conference call is 877-660-6853 and the PIN for the replay is 13748051.

A live audio webcast of the conference call will be accessible from the "Investors" section of PHX's website at https://phxmin.com/events. The webcast will be archived for at least 90 days.

FINANCIAL RESULTS

Statements of Income

Three Months Ended June 30,



Six Months Ended June 30,





2024



2023



2024



2023



Revenues:













Natural gas, oil and NGL sales $ 9,826,006



$ 7,231,164



$ 16,916,214



$ 19,088,411



Lease bonuses and rental income

134,226





111,991





285,944





425,141



Gains (losses) on derivative contracts

(418,997)





183,006





208,495





3,985,826







9,541,235





7,526,161





17,410,653





23,499,378



Costs and expenses:























Lease operating expenses

294,354





341,463





626,763





916,405



Transportation, gathering and marketing

1,540,396





906,373





2,383,900





2,035,129



Production and ad valorem taxes

597,995





434,580





990,322





986,838



Depreciation, depletion and amortization

2,268,284





2,210,332





4,624,610





4,100,322



Provision for impairment

-





-





-





2,073



Interest expense

651,982





524,294





1,366,868





1,081,767



General and administrative

2,734,628





3,177,103





6,081,665





6,159,012



Losses (gains) on asset sales and other

(197,326)





139,307





(173,114)





(4,195,121)



Total costs and expenses

7,890,313





7,733,452





15,901,014





11,086,425



Income (loss) before provision for income taxes

1,650,922





(207,291)





1,509,639





12,412,953





























Provision for income taxes

355,151





(166,000)





397,483





2,901,000





























Net income (loss) $ 1,295,771



$ (41,291)



$ 1,112,156



$ 9,511,953

















































































Basic and diluted earnings per common share $ 0.04



$ (0.00)



$ 0.03



$ 0.26





























Weighted average shares outstanding:























Basic

36,308,224





35,965,281





36,301,540





35,950,615



Diluted

36,379,653





35,965,281





36,301,540





36,034,438





























Dividends per share of























common stock paid in period $ 0.0300



$ 0.0225



$ 0.0600



$ 0.0450































Balance Sheets



June 30, 2024



Dec. 31, 2023

Assets









Current assets:









Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,271,544



$ 806,254

Natural gas, oil, and NGL sales receivables (net of $0

5,071,590





4,900,126

allowance for uncollectable accounts)









Refundable income taxes

372,963





455,931

Derivative contracts, net

877,538





3,120,607

Other

703,210





878,659

Total current assets

9,296,845





10,161,577













Properties and equipment at cost, based on









successful efforts accounting:









Producing natural gas and oil properties

216,696,381





209,082,847

Non-producing natural gas and oil properties

52,997,639





58,820,445

Other

1,361,064





1,360,614





271,055,084





269,263,906

Less accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization

(118,186,569)





(114,139,423)

Net properties and equipment

152,868,515





155,124,483













Derivative contracts, net

-





162,980

Operating lease right-of-use assets

502,194





572,610

Other, net

640,573





486,630

Total assets $ 163,308,127



$ 166,508,280













Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity









Current liabilities:









Accounts payable $ 636,327



$ 562,607

Current portion of operating lease liability

239,571





233,390

Accrued liabilities and other

1,457,285





1,215,275

Total current liabilities

2,333,183





2,011,272













Long-term debt

28,750,000





32,750,000

Deferred income taxes, net

6,829,023





6,757,637

Asset retirement obligations

1,083,947





1,062,139

Derivative contracts, net

239,372





-

Operating lease liability, net of current portion

574,598





695,818

Total liabilities

39,810,123





43,276,866













Stockholders' equity:









Common Stock, $0.01666 par value; 75,000,000 shares authorized and









36,121,723 issued at June 30, 2024; 54,000,500 shares authorized









and 36,121,723 issued at Dec. 31, 2023

601,788





601,788

Capital in excess of par value

43,054,447





41,676,417

Deferred directors' compensation

1,471,052





1,487,590

Retained earnings

78,891,082





80,022,839





124,018,369





123,788,634

Less treasury stock, at cost; 122,785 shares at June 30,









2024, and 131,477 shares at Dec. 31, 2023

(520,365)





(557,220)

Total stockholders' equity

123,498,004





123,231,414

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 163,308,127



$ 166,508,280



Condensed Statements of Cash Flows



Six Months Ended



Six Months Ended



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023

Operating Activities









Net income (loss) $ 1,112,156



$ 9,511,953

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided









by operating activities:









Depreciation, depletion and amortization

4,624,610





4,100,322

Impairment of producing properties

-





2,073

Provision for deferred income taxes

71,386





2,679,000

Gain from leasing fee mineral acreage

(285,944)





(425,141)

Proceeds from leasing fee mineral acreage

292,350





488,173

Net (gain) loss on sales of assets

(511,684)





(4,428,212)

Directors' deferred compensation expense

90,661





109,383

Total (gain) loss on derivative contracts

(208,495)





(3,985,826)

Cash receipts (payments) on settled derivative contracts

2,853,916





1,865,779

Restricted stock award expense

1,307,686





1,228,871

Other

55,059





70,526

Cash provided (used) by changes in assets and liabilities:









Natural gas, oil and NGL sales receivables

(171,464)





3,944,092

Income taxes receivable

82,968





(675,268)

Other current assets

131,854





405,055

Accounts payable

73,810





(228,305)

Other non-current assets

(138,508)





95,283

Income taxes payable

-





(576,427)

Accrued liabilities

42,994





(332,066)

Total adjustments

8,311,199





4,337,312

Net cash provided by operating activities

9,423,355





13,849,265













Investing Activities









Capital expenditures

(35,726)





(275,419)

Acquisition of minerals and overriding royalty interests

(2,278,178)





(11,914,003)

Net proceeds from sales of assets

515,775





9,223,405

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

(1,798,129)





(2,966,017)













Financing Activities









Borrowings under credit facility

1,000,000





6,000,000

Payments of loan principal

(5,000,000)





(15,550,000)

Payments on off-market derivative contracts

-





(560,162)

Purchases of treasury stock

-





(669)

Payments of dividends

(2,159,936)





(1,620,442)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

(6,159,936)





(11,731,273)













Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

1,465,290





(848,025)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

806,254





2,115,652

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 2,271,544



$ 1,267,627













Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:





















Interest paid (net of capitalized interest) $ 1,409,711



$ 1,155,637

Income taxes paid (net of refunds received) $ 243,130



$ 1,473,696













Supplemental Schedule of Noncash Investing and Financing Activities:





















Dividends declared and unpaid $ 83,977



$ 72,460













Gross additions to properties and equipment $ 2,357,409



$ 12,952,046

Net increase (decrease) in accounts receivable for properties









and equipment additions

(43,505)





(762,624)

Capital expenditures and acquisitions $ 2,313,904



$ 12,189,422



Derivative Contracts as of June 30, 2024





Production volume







Contract period

covered per month

Index

Contract price Natural gas costless collars











July - September 2024

30,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.00 floor / $3.60 ceiling October 2024 - June 2025

30,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.00 floor / $5.00 ceiling November 2024 - March 2025

90,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.25 floor / $5.25 ceiling November - December 2024

35,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $5.15 ceiling January - March 2025

30,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $5.15 ceiling January 2025

55,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $4.40 ceiling February 2025

25,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $4.40 ceiling March 2025

35,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $4.40 ceiling April 2025 - September 2025

55,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.00 floor / $3.75 ceiling November 2025 - March 2026

100,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $4.85 ceiling November 2025 - March 2026

75,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $4.72 ceiling November 2025 - March 2026

15,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.50 floor / $5.15 ceiling Natural gas fixed price swaps











July - October 2024

50,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.17 July 2024

127,500 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.24 July - October 2024

75,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.47 July - October 2024

25,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.47 August - September 2024

120,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.24 October 2024

105,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.24 November - December 2024

70,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$4.16 December 2024

50,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.39 January - March 2025

60,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$4.16 January - March 2025

50,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.51 April - October 2025

100,000 Mmbtu

NYMEX Henry Hub

$3.28 Oil costless collars











June 2024

1,650 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$63.00 floor / $76.00 ceiling June 2024

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$65.00 floor / $76.50 ceiling June - September 2024

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$70.00 floor / $78.10 ceiling July - October 2024

1,650 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$65.00 floor / $76.50 ceiling October - December 2024

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$67.00 floor / $77.00 ceiling Oil fixed price swaps











June - October 2024

1,000 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$66.10 June 2024

1,300 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$70.59 July - October 2024

1,500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$69.50 September 2024

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$76.46 October 2024

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$76.12 November 2024

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$75.49 November - December 2024

2,000 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$69.50 November 2024 - March 2025

1,600 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$64.80 December 2024

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$74.94 January 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$74.48 January - March 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$69.50 January - June 2025

2,000 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$70.90 February 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$74.10 March 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$73.71 April 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$73.30 April - June 2025

750 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$69.50 April - June 2025

1,000 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$68.00 May 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$72.92 June 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$72.58 July 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$72.24 July - September 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$69.50 July - December 2025

1,500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$68.90 August 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$71.88 September 2025

500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$71.60 October 2025

750 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$71.12 November 2025

750 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$70.99 December 2025

750 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$70.66 January 2026

1,500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$70.53 February 2026

1,500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$71.28 March 2026

1,500 Bbls

NYMEX WTI

$70.42

Non-GAAP Reconciliation

This press release includes certain "non-GAAP financial measures" as defined under the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, including Regulation G. These non-GAAP financial measures are calculated using GAAP amounts in the Company's financial statements. These measures, detailed below, are provided in addition to, not as an alternative for, and should be read in conjunction with, the information contained in the Company's financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP (including the notes thereto), included in the Company's SEC filings and posted on its website.

Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation

The Company defines "adjusted EBITDA" as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, excluding non-cash gains (losses) on derivatives and gains (losses) on asset sales and including cash receipts from (payments on) off-market derivatives and restricted stock and deferred directors' expense. The Company has included a presentation of adjusted EBITDA because it recognizes that certain investors consider this amount to be a useful means of measuring the Company's ability to meet its debt service obligations and evaluating its financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA has limitations and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income, operating income, cash flow from operations or other consolidated income or cash flow data prepared in accordance with GAAP. Because not all companies use identical calculations, this presentation of adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure of other companies. The following table provides a reconciliation of net income (loss) to adjusted EBITDA for the quarters indicated:



Three Months

Ended



Three Months

Ended



Six Months

Ended



Six Months

Ended



Three Months

Ended



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023



Mar. 31, 2024

Net Income $ 1,295,771



$ (41,291)



$ 1,112,156



$ 9,511,953



$ (183,615)

Plus:



























Income tax expense

355,151





(166,000)





397,483





2,901,000





42,332

Interest expense

651,982





524,294





1,366,868





1,081,767





714,886

DD&A

2,268,284





2,210,332





4,624,610





4,100,322





2,356,326

Impairment expense

-





-





-





2,073





-

Less:



























Non-cash gains (losses)



























on derivatives

(1,603,604)





(865,935)





(2,645,421)





2,306,464





(1,041,817)

Gains (losses) on asset sales

445,184





10,230





511,684





4,428,213





66,500

Plus:



























Cash payments on off-market

derivative



























contracts

-





-





-





(373,745)





-

Restricted stock and deferred



























director's expense

696,559





703,667





1,398,347





1,338,254





701,788

Adjusted EBITDA $ 6,426,167



$ 4,086,707



$ 11,033,201



$ 11,826,947



$ 4,607,034

































Debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA (TTM) Reconciliation

"Debt-to-adjusted EBITDA (TTM)" is defined as the ratio of long-term debt to adjusted EBITDA on a trailing 12-month (TTM) basis. The Company has included a presentation of debt-to-adjusted EBITDA (TTM) because it recognizes that certain investors consider such ratios to be a useful means of measuring the Company's ability to meet its debt service obligations and for evaluating its financial performance. The debt-to-adjusted EBITDA (TTM) ratio has limitations and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income, operating income, cash flow from operations or other consolidated income or cash flow data prepared in accordance with GAAP. Because not all companies use identical calculations, this presentation of debt-to-adjusted EBITDA (TTM) may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure of other companies. The following table provides a reconciliation of net income (loss) to adjusted EBITDA on a TTM basis and of the resulting debt-to-adjusted EBITDA (TTM) ratio:



TTM Ended



TTM Ended



June 30, 2024



June 30, 2023

Net Income $ 5,521,003



$ 22,016,554

Plus:









Income tax expense

2,231,943





6,313,000

Interest expense

2,647,494





2,191,181

DD&A

9,090,473





7,452,846

Impairment expense

36,460





6,105,472

Less:









Non-cash gains (losses)









on derivatives

(649,354)





10,211,207

Gains (losses) on asset sales

812,230





8,921,031

Plus:









Cash payments on off-market derivative









contracts

-





(2,334,403)

Restricted stock and deferred









director's expense

2,494,021





2,944,517

Adjusted EBITDA $ 21,858,518



$ 25,556,929













Debt $ 28,750,000



$ 23,750,000

Debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA (TTM)

1.32





0.93















PHX Minerals Inc. Fort Worth-based, PHX Minerals Inc. is a natural gas and oil mineral company with a strategy to proactively grow its mineral position in its core focus areas. PHX owns mineral acreage principally located in Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, North Dakota and Arkansas. Additional information about the Company can be found at www.phxmin.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "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. Words such as "anticipates," "plans," "estimates," "believes," "expects," "intends," "will," "should," "may" and similar expressions may be used to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact and reflect PHX's current views about future events. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the Company's operational outlook; the Company's ability to execute its business strategies; the volatility of realized natural gas and oil prices; the level of production on the Company's properties; estimates of quantities of natural gas, oil and NGL reserves and their values; general economic or industry conditions; legislation or regulatory requirements; conditions of the securities markets; the Company's ability to raise capital; changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines; financial or political instability; acts of war or terrorism; title defects in the properties in which the Company invests; and other economic, competitive, governmental, regulatory or technical factors affecting properties, operations or prices. Although the Company believes expectations reflected in these and other forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company can give no assurance such expectations will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause results to differ materially from those expected by the Company's management. Information concerning these risks and other factors can be found in the Company's filings with the SEC, including its Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, available on the Company's website or the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update the forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Contact:

Rob Fink / Stephen Lee

FNK IR

646.809.4048

[email protected]

Corporate Contact:

405.948.1560

[email protected]

SOURCE PHX MINERALS INC.
NORTHBROOK, Ill., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PPL Group is thrilled to announce a series of three exceptional auctions over the next three months, offering a wide range of plastic injection molding equipment. These auctions will take place in the United States and Mexico, providing an excellent opportunity for businesses to acquire high-quality machinery and auxiliary equipment.

Toyo SI 150 6 Plastic Injection Molding Machine 2021 Milacron Q-Series 400 Injection Molding Machine

August 21, 2024: PPL will be selling late model, low-hour Toyo Electric Injection Molding Presses ranging from 110 Ton to 200 Ton. This auction includes an array of auxiliary equipment such as robots, thermolators, and hot runner controllers and filling and packaging equipment, all from a clean room, medical-grade manufacturing facility in Salt Lake City. More equipment is being added, ensuring a comprehensive selection for bidders.

September 2024: PPL will conduct an auction for assets formerly owned by Genesis Plastic Technologies in Solon, OH. This auction features 19 presses, including Cincinnati Milacron Presses with capacities of 55 Tons, 90 Tons, 400 Tons, 725 Tons, and 850 Tons, with some presses as new as 2021.

October 8, 2024: In partnership with industry leading partners, PPL will sell the assets of a prominent injection molding facility in Juarez, Mexico. This plant includes (39) Injection Molding Machines from 110 Ton  3000 Ton as new as 2017, as well as (2) Ferry Rotation Molding Machines, (22) Servo Robots, (9) Material Dryers and Material Handling equipment.

For more information on these auctions and to register for bidding, please visit https://www.pplgroupllc.com/auctions/ or contact PPL Group at 224-927-5320 or [email protected].

About PPL Group PPL Group is a premier private equity firm that builds creative and agile liquidity solutions for industrial companies with distress or surplus assets. PPL monetizes surplus assets or entire facilities, including real estate, A/R, intellectual property, and inventory. They also purchase small to middle market manufacturing companies.

Press Contact:

Alex Mazer

224-927-5320

[email protected]

SOURCE PPL Group
NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global protective coatings market size is estimated to grow by USD 22.40 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of about 10.87% during the forecast period. Increased demand for water-borne coatings is driving market growth, with a trend towards increasing focus on uv-curable coatings and nanocoatings. However, volatile raw material prices poses a challenge. Key market players include Akzo Nobel NV, Al Gurg Paints LLC, Asian Paints Ltd., Axalta Coating Systems Ltd., Berger Paints India Ltd, Chitra Insultec Pvt. Ltd., Dow Chemical Co., Hempel AS, Henkel AG and Co. KGaA, Jotun AS, Kansai Paint Co. Ltd., Nippon Paint Holdings Co. Ltd., NIPSEA Group, Plasma paints, PPG Industries Inc., RPM International Inc., Sika AG, The Chemours Co., The Sherwin Williams Co., and Wacker Chemie AG.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global protective coatings market 2024-2028

Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report

Protective Coatings 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 22405 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 9.53 Regional analysis APAC, Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution APAC at 70% Key countries China, India, US, Germany, and France Key companies profiled Akzo Nobel NV, Al Gurg Paints LLC, Asian Paints Ltd., Axalta Coating Systems Ltd., Berger Paints India Ltd, Chitra Insultec Pvt. Ltd., Dow Chemical Co., Hempel AS, Henkel AG and Co. KGaA, Jotun AS, Kansai Paint Co. Ltd., Nippon Paint Holdings Co. Ltd., NIPSEA Group, Plasma paints, PPG Industries Inc., RPM International Inc., Sika AG, The Chemours Co., The Sherwin Williams Co., and Wacker Chemie AG

Market Driver

The protective coatings market is highly competitive with vendors investing in research and development to introduce innovative technologies, such as protective nanocoatings and UV-curable protective coatings. Nanocoatings, like Halo Nano Matrix, are gaining popularity due to their cost-effectiveness and superior durability. Applications of nanocoatings span across various industries, including transport, industrial machinery, marine, and architectural sectors. They offer long-lasting shine solutions, are easy to apply, and effectively repel rain, dirt, and environmental contaminants. Although nanocoating technology has existed since the 1970s, its significance is increasing due to consumer interest. Key players, including Akzo Nobel and Axalta Coating Systems, are developing and distributing nanocoatings, fueling market growth. UV-cured protective coatings offer advantages such as quick drying time, increased operational speed, superior abrasion and adhesion, improved flexibility, better product quality, and resistance to chemicals and corrosion. These coatings use UV radiation for curing, eliminating the need for heat and temperature, and thus, reducing harmful VOC or hydrocarbon emissions. The rising demand for UV-curable and nanocoatings is expected to drive the growth of the global protective coatings market.

The protective coatings market is experiencing significant trends in various sectors. Water-borne coatings are gaining popularity due to their eco-friendliness and low VOC emissions. The Epoxy segment continues to dominate, with Resin Insights projecting steady growth. Powder coatings and structural polyurethane coatings are also on the rise, particularly in the mining sector. PPG Industries, IMF, Hempel, Jotun, and others lead the market. Offshore, energy, and hydrocarbon processing industries, as well as power generation, are key end-users. Regulatory compliance, such as the Clean Air Act and OSHA, drive the shift towards low-emission solvent-borne and water-borne coatings. Acrylics, Alkyd, Epoxies, Polyurethane, and other resins continue to innovate and meet industry demands. Green Seal certification adds value to environmentally-friendly coatings.

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Market Challenges

Protective coatings are essential in various industries for corrosion prevention and surface protection. The manufacturing process involves the use of petrochemical feedstocks, primarily binders and solvents, such as polyesters, alcohols, and epoxy resins. Crude oil and natural gas serve as the fundamental raw materials for producing these binders. Volatility in crude oil prices directly impacts the cost of feedstock, with each petrochemical feedstock having a unique correlation to oil pricing. Factors like demand and supply, manufacturing processes, and production regions influence this correlation. As a result, unpredictable fluctuations in crude oil prices lead to varying resin prices, adversely affecting production costs and reducing vendors' profit margins. Consequently, the protective coatings market is anticipated to experience negative demand influences due to crude oil price volatility during the forecast period.

The Protective Coatings market faces several challenges in various industries such as offshore, energy, hydrocarbon processing, and power generation. Regulatory bodies like the Clean Air Act and OSHA impose strict guidelines on VOC emissions, pushing the market towards water-borne coatings. Key players like Hempel, Jotun, PPG Industries, and others offer solutions in epoxies, acrylics, polyurethane, and alkyds. The Epoxy segment is expected to grow due to its superior protective properties. Green Seal certification is a trend, with companies like Hempel and Jotun offering eco-friendly alternatives. The mining sector also utilizes protective coatings, particularly structural polyurethane. Challenges include complying with regulations, reducing VOC emissions, and maintaining high performance standards. Companies invest in research and development to address these challenges, with Resin Insights reporting on the latest industry trends and innovations. Solvent-borne coatings face competition from powder coatings due to their environmental advantages. Overall, the market requires continuous innovation to meet the evolving needs of diverse industries.

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Segment Overview

This protective coatings market report extensively covers market segmentation by

Technology

1.1 Solvent-borne

1.2 Waterborne

1.3 Powder coatings

End-user

2.1 Infrastructure and construction

2.2 Oil and gas

2.3 Automotive

2.4 Aerospace

2.5 Others

Resin Type

3.1 Epoxy

3.2 Alkyd

3.3 Polyurethane

3.4 Others

Geography

4.1 APAC

4.2 Europe

4.3 North America

4.4 Middle East and Africa

and 4.5 South America

1.1 Solvent-borne- The Protective Coatings Market refers to the industry that produces and supplies protective coatings for various applications. These coatings shield surfaces from wear, corrosion, and other damaging elements. Key players in this market include PPG Industries, AkzoNobel, and Sherwin-Williams. They offer solutions for industries like automotive, construction, and oil & gas. Growth is driven by increasing infrastructure development and rising demand for durable, high-performance coatings.

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Learn and explore more about Technavio's in-depth research reports

The global paints and coatings market is experiencing robust growth, driven by rising demand in construction and automotive industries. Similarly, the global antimicrobial coatings market is gaining traction due to heightened awareness of hygiene and infection control. Key players include PPG Industries, AkzoNobel, and Sherwin-Williams.

Research Analysis

The protective coatings market encompasses a range of products including Acrylics, Polyurethane, Alkyd, Epoxies, and Powder coatings. These coatings are utilized across various industries such as power generation and mining to enhance durability, corrosion resistance, and improve the aesthetic appeal of surfaces. Regulatory compliance, with regulations like the Clean Air Act and OSHA, is a significant factor driving the market's growth. The Epoxy segment holds a substantial market share due to its high performance and ability to reduce VOC emissions. Key trends include the increasing adoption of structural polyurethane coatings and the shift towards eco-friendly alternatives like Green Seal certified coatings. Notable companies include Hempel, Akzo Nobel NV, and PPG Industries, among others.

Market Research Overview

The protective coatings market encompasses a wide range of products used to shield various surfaces from environmental hazards, corrosion, and wear. Key product categories include IMF (Industrial Maintenance Coatings) such as Acrylics, Polyurethane, Alkyd, and Epoxies. The Epoxies segment holds significant market share due to its superior resistance to chemicals and temperature. The market caters to diverse industries like Offshore, Energy, Hydrocarbon processing, and Power generation sectors. Regulatory compliance with regulations such as the Clean Air Act and OSHA drives the shift towards low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) emissions coatings, including Water borne coatings and Powder coatings. Resin Insights projects continued growth for the market, with the Epoxy segment expected to dominate. Sectors like Mining and Infrastructure also contribute significantly. Structural Polyurethane coatings offer high durability and are widely used in infrastructure projects. PPG Industries and other key players offer innovative solutions to meet evolving industry demands.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

Technology

Solvent-borne



Waterborne



Powder Coatings

End-user

Infrastructure And Construction



Oil And Gas



Automotive



Aerospace



Others

Resin Type

Epoxy



Alkyd



Polyurethane



Others

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
Independent agency to ignite four classic beauty and personal care brands

NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Revlon Group Holdings LLC ("Revlon"), the iconic beauty company, has announced a new partnership with independent creative agency Terri & Sandy for four of its brands: ALMAY, which pioneered hypoallergenic cosmetics for sensitive skin; Mitchum, the high-efficacy antiperspirant for men and women; Creme of Nature, a haircare brand specializing in nutrient-rich natural ingredients for textured hair; and American Crew, the world's leading professional men's grooming brand.

The win came following a seven-week competitive review led by Peter Carter of search consultancy Creative Haystack.

Revlon has tasked Terri & Sandy with developing a new brand platform, rooted in an evolved digital-first strategy, and integrated marketing efforts for each brand, with an eye toward the products' individual market positions and target demographics.

"The team from Terri & Sandy impressed us with their powerful understanding of the consumer, and their ability to generate impactful creative ideas executed with top production quality. We are excited to enter this partnership, and are highly confident that they will deliver breakthrough communication platforms for our brands, becoming a large part of Revlon's future success," said Geralyn Breig, President, North America for Revlon.

The first work from Terri & Sandy across all four brands is expected to debut in 2025.

"Terri & Sandy was chosen for the strength of its strong strategic skills, track record of business-building advertising, ability to speak to the varying target audiences, and their 'fun but polished' personality that blended well with the client," said Peter Carter, Creative Haystack's Founder & CEO. "It also didn't hurt that everyone at the agency wore Revlon lipstick when they met the clientand I mean everyone."

Revlon marks the first new business win for Terri & Sandy under new President, Peyton Sutton, who joined the agency's executive leadership team last month, as Co-Founder Terri Meyer announced her retirement from advertising.

"Each brand has its own superior product offering, diverse consumer audience, and are at various phases in their growth journeybut all share a common desire to deliver breakthrough work that will fuel their business," said Peyton Sutton, President of Terri & Sandy. "These are brands that we've known and loved, and to have a front row seat to the next phase of their growth is a dream partnership for Terri & Sandy."

About Revlon Group Holdings LLC:

Revlon Group Holdings LLC ("Revlon") has developed a long-standing reputation as a color authority and beauty trendsetter in the world of color cosmetics and hair care. Since its breakthrough launch of the first opaque nail enamel in 1932, Revlon has provided consumers with high quality product innovation, performance, and sophisticated glamour. In 2016, Revlon acquired the iconic Elizabeth Arden company and its portfolio of brands, including its leading designer and celebrity fragrances. Today, Revlon's diversified portfolio of brands is sold in approximately 150 countries around the world in most retail distribution channels, including prestige, salon, mass, and online. Revlon is among the leading global beauty companies, with some of the world's most iconic and desired brands and product offerings in color cosmetics, skin care, hair color, hair care and fragrances under brands such as Revlon, Revlon Professional, Elizabeth Arden, Almay, Mitchum, CND, American Crew, Creme of Nature, Cutex, Juicy Couture, Elizabeth Taylor, Britney Spears, Curve, John Varvatos, and Christina Aguilera.

About ALMAY:

ALMAY has been a leader in hypoallergenic makeup since 1931 with the belief that beauty should be effortless and have nothing to hide. That's why ALMAY formulates products using less than 500 ingredients of 20,000 available while never sacrificing the performance that is expected and deserved. ALMAY's makeup is skin loving in curated colors that make creating looks simpler than ever. The brand has always cared for all skin types, even the most sensitive, which is why every product is all kinds of good: effortless, hypoallergenic, fragrance free, cruelty free, doctor tested and now, evolving toward better sustainability. ALMAY puts your sensitive skin at ease and allows you to feel free! For more visit www.almay.com.

About Mitchum:

Mitchum has over 60 years of expertise in superior efficacy, and the brand is expertly formulated to deliver against wetness control, neutralization of odor, and lasting freshness. Mitchum is Dermatologist tested, suitable for all skin types, and effective against perspiration. Mitchum's Triple Odor Defense technology shields from heat, stress, and motion, and allowing consumers to feel most confident and celebrate being closer to others!

About American Crew:

American Crew, the Official Supplier to Men, was founded in 1994 creating a market for grooming options made specifically for men. Over 30 years later, the company has developed a comprehensive portfolio of premium products, as well as a legacy steeped in commitment to the performance that stylists demand and the quality that men trust. From hair and body to shave and skin, the American Crew brand is dedicated to fulfilling the styling needs of today's man. A landmark in the professional grooming industry, American Crew has distribution in over 30,000 salons, barbershops, and authorized retailers across 50 countries. For the latest on American Crew including news and grooming tips, follow @AmericanCrew on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube, and visit www.americancrew.com.

About Creme of Nature:

Born in 1976 on the South Side of Chicago, Creme of Nature is a Black-founded and Black-led brand offering a full assortment of proven, high-quality hair products for Care, Styling, and Color designed specifically for coily, curly, and wavy hair. For over 45 years, the brand continues to be a trusted name for those seeking effective and nurturing hair care products. For more information follow @cremeofnature on Instagram and Facebook, @cremeofnatureofficial on TikTok and YouTube and visit www.cremeofnature.com.

About Terri & Sandy:

Terri & Sandy is an independent advertising agency in NYC that brings clients big agency expertise faster, smarter, and more efficiently. Their clients include The Walt Disney Company, Nutella, Freshpet, John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Princess Cruises, and BJ's Wholesale Club, among others. Terri & Sandy is a 2023 Fast Company World Changing Ideas winner, has been ranked the #1 Most Effective Independent Agency in the U.S. on the Effie Index and named Ad Age's Best Small Agency in North America. For more information, visit terrisandy.com.

Press Contact:

Lauren Rubenstein, Terry & Sandy

[email protected]

SOURCE Revlon
The company says its hiring of Rooter Hero Phoenix Operations Manager Priscilla Proctor has helped other women break down barriers in male-dominated industries

PHOENIX, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air, a plumbing and HVAC company serving residential and commercial locations in California, Arizona and Nevada, is celebrating its diversity by recognizing Rooter Hero Phoenix Operations Manager Priscilla Proctor's accomplishments as one of the company's female leads.

Rooter Hero Phoenix Operations Manager Priscilla Proctor has faced unique challenges as a woman in a male-dominated industry but has her team's full support and respect.

"Priscilla is no stranger to the hard work and dedication required of home service business employees," Rooter Hero co-founder and CEO John Akhoian said. "She has worked in nearly every aspect of a plumbing company, from the call center to the logistic department and even in the back office. Her ability to build a successful team, develop long-term processes and inspire her fellow employees has made her the perfect fit for the goals we had for our Pheonix location. She has met and exceeded them."

Proctor has worked in the home service industry for more than 20 years. In 2019, she started her career at Rooter Hero Pheonix as the dispatcher and logistics coordinator before moving to another plumbing company, where she worked her way up from the call center to operations manager. She eventually managed five plumbing locations for the company before coming back to Rooter Hero Pheonix as the operations manager in May 2022.

"As a woman in management in the skilled trades industry, I've faced some unique challenges like unconscious biases and stereotypes, but that just motivated me to demonstrate a resilience and competence that fostered a new style of leadership," Proctor said. "One of the rewarding parts of being in this role is witnessing how my team has come to value and trust my leadership. By being transparent and approachable, I've built and environment where open communication and teamwork thrive."

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women make up about 57% of the workforce, but less than 4% of them are employed in the plumbing industry. Akhoian said that he hopes Rooter Hero can serve as an example showcasing the success women can have in the field.

For Proctor, working in the industry has been both challenging and rewarding. She says that a woman's innate ability to lift up and celebrate her team helps her earn the respect from the mostly male laborers that make up the home services industry.

"Leadership transcends gender," she said. "When you can work with a group of people and inspire them to put forward their best efforts, you earn their loyalty and respect no matter what industry you work in."

For more information about Rooter Hero, please visit https://rooterhero.com/.

About Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air

Since 2011, Rooter Hero has been committed to providing the best in plumbing and drain services. With more than 100 years of plumbing heritage, the Rooter Hero team prides themselves on creating a memorable experience for each customer.

The company provides solutions for both residential and commercial needs and offers 24/7 emergency service. Operating in service area locations throughout California, Arizona and Nevada, Rooter Hero offers options such as HVAC service and installation in select areas. For more information, please visit https://rooterhero.com or call 844-219-2215.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

(865) 977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE Rooter Hero
NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Monks , the global, purely digital, data-driven, unitary operating brand of S4Capital plc., is thrilled to announce the appointment of Linda Cronin as the new EVP, Head of Media. The strategic leadership move reflects Monks' mission to accelerate the industry-wide transition to AI-powered creative and technology. Under the company's newly-simplified and strengthened offering, Linda will oversee Media globally, part of the Marketing services practice.

Linda Cronin has been appointed EVP, Head of Media at Monks, a strategic leadership move which reflects Monks mission to accelerate the industry-wide transition to AI-powered creative and technology.

As a veteran of media marketing's early days, Linda has long focused on embracing emerging technologies and trends, shaping them into innovative solutions for clients. A key focus as EVP, Media will be to leverage Monks' deep tech partnerships and place at the forefront of the AI revolution to deliver innovative media solutions that benefit both its clients and empower its dedicated staff of digital-first media professionals.

Earlier this year, Monks partnered with wellness brand Hatch to drive product sales with a personalized messaging strategy, implemented at scale with generative AI, resulting in a 78% increase in click-through-rate and a 46% increase in on-site engagement. The case was powered by Monks.Flow, the industry leading, AI-powered, intelligent marketing and workflow platform and was featured during the Google keynote presentation at the 2024 Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity.

"AI is rapidly transforming Media as a discipline, accelerating our ability to zero in on consumer needs and connect our clients' brands with their most valuable audiences in a way that's most relevant to them," said Cronin. Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, where Monks aims to integrate in-depth media, data, creative, and tech partnerships crucial for modern marketing solutions.

"I was impressed to see Monks at the forefront of the AI revolution, backed by deep partnerships with leading technology partners in the AI economyand with cases to prove it. A lot of industry leaders have visions for AI, but I haven't seen many actually doing the work right now. Monks is already there."

Linda's hire marks an important milestone following the company's newly simplified offering across two fully synchronized practices: Marketing services and Technology services. In her new role, Linda will lead the media capability, which sits within the company's Marketing services practice. In addition to media, the Marketing services practice encompasses creative, content, organic social and data-driven marketing solutions. Cronin and her team will work in close collaboration with the Technology services practice which concentrates on the company's technology, user experience, product engineering, data, digital transformation and consulting services.

"Linda brings the right experience and vision to lead our Media team at Monks," said Bruno Lambertini, Co-CEO, Marketing Services at Monks. "With focus on unification across the organization, Linda will further our mission to develop industry-leading solutions that optimize, augment and transform our clients' multi-channel consumer experiences."

Linda Cronin brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in driving exceptional business growth across diverse industries including CPG, retail, travel, and B2B tech. Linda is passionate about building a strong team and fostering an inclusive culture where everyone is celebrated for who they are. Linda served on the DEI leadership team at Initiative starting in 2020, where she actively listened to employee challenges, supported diverse groups and elevated solutions to leadership. Cronin also worked at an international NGO dedicated to eliminating world poverty and creating a more just world for everyone.

About Monks

Monks is the global, purely digital, data-driven, unitary operating brand of S4Capital plc. With a legacy of innovation and specialised expertise, Monks combines an extraordinary range of global marketing and technology services to accelerate business possibilities and redefine how brands and businesses interact with the world. Its integration of systems and workflows delivers unfettered content production, scaled experiences, enterprise-grade technology and data science fueled by AImanaged by the industry's best and most diverse digital talentto help the world's trailblazing companies outmaneuver and outpace their competition.

Monks was named a Contender in The Forrester Wave: Global Marketing Services. It has remained a constant presence on Adweek's Fastest Growing lists (2019-23), ranks among Cannes Lions' Top 10 Creative Companies (2022-23) and is the only partner to have been placed in AdExchanger's Programmatic Power Players list every year (2020-24). In addition to being named Adweek's first AI Agency of the Year (2023), Monks has been recognized by Business Intelligence in its 2024 Excellence in Artificial Intelligence Awards program in three categories: the Individual category, Organizational Winner in AI Strategic Planning and AI Product for its service Monks.Flow. Monks has also garnered the title of Webby Production Company of the Year (2021-24), won a record number of FWAs and has earned a spot on Newsweek's Top 100 Global Most Loved Workplaces 2023.

About S4Capital

S4Capital plc (SFOR.L) is the tech-led, new age/new era digital advertising, marketing and technology services company, established by Sir Martin Sorrell in May 2018.

Our strategy is to build a purely digital services business for global, multinational, regional and local clients. This will be achieved by integrating leading businesses across categories including: marketing, data, digital media, and technology, along with an emphasis on 'faster, better, cheaper, more' execution in an always-on consumer-led environment, with a unitary structure.

The S4Capital Board includes Rupert Faure Walker, Daniel Pinto, Sue Prevezer, Elizabeth Buchanan, Margaret Ma Connolly, Miles Young and Colin Day as Non-Executive Directors.

The Company now has approximately 7,600 people in 34 countries with approximately 80% of revenue across the Americas, 15% across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and 5% across Asia-Pacific. The longer-term objective is a geographic split of 60%:20%:20%. Marketing services will account for approximately 75% of net revenue and Technology services 25%. The longer term objective is a practice split of 60%:40%.

Sir Martin was CEO of WPP for 33 years, building it from a 1 million 'shell' company in 1985 into the world's largest advertising and marketing services company, with a market capitalisation of over 16 billion on the day he left. Prior to that Sir Martin was Group Financial Director of Saatchi & Saatchi Company Plc for nine years.

Media Contact:

Sarah Murray

[email protected]

SOURCE Monks
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Salt & Stone, the Los Angeles-based, fragrance-driven body care brand, announces a significant investment from Humble Growth.

Salt & Stone Product Salt & Stone Founder Nima Jalali

Founded in 2017 by former pro snowboarder Nima Jalali, Salt & Stone elevates everyday routines into sensorial rituals through the power of fragrance, formula and design. In just seven years, Salt & Stone is primed to become a global megabrand with a dedicated worldwide following and a recent global rollout with Sephora. With innovation across award-winning deodorant, body care and fragrance, Salt & Stone sells one product every seven seconds and has profitably achieved consistent triple-digit year-over-year revenue growth.

Uniting Jalali's passion for surfing and snowboarding, the brand's active botanical ingredients are sourced from the oceans and mountains and formulated alongside impactful functional fragrances. The now iconic fragrance portfolio transcends four distinct realms  Santal & Vetiver, Neroli & Basil, Black Rose & Oud, and Bergamot & Hinoki  across deodorant, body mist, body wash and lotion.

The most recent innovation, Salt & Stone Body Mist, is a nutrient-rich fragrance mist that is gentle enough to wear on every inch of skin. Honoring the brand's commitment to body and mind, glycerin and red algae offer significant skin health benefits while the fragrances run parallel to the signature scents found in the existing lineup.

Humble Growth is a growth-focused investment firm co-founded by two celebrated leaders in the consumer industry, Dr. Andrew Abraham and Nick Giannuzzi. The firm is dedicated to propelling the success of disruptive, industry-shaping companies that influence how we eat, drink, feel and live, through authentic partnerships built on empathy and humility. Between them, Humble Growth's co-founders have assembled a team with decades of investing experience across food, beverage, beauty and wellness.

"We're experiencing a golden moment at Salt & Stone. With a lot of momentum, I found it a perfect time to partner with a strategic investor to help get us where we're going more efficiently," says Nima Jalali, Founder and CEO of Salt & Stone. "I love that Humble Growth is founded by founders. Having a team on our side that understands things from a founder's perspective is very important to me. Andrew and team are building something special, and we're honored to be a part of it."

"We are so excited to go on this journey with Nima and Salt & Stone," says Dr. Abraham. "Our approach at Humble Growth is a differentiated one; we believe in forging true partnerships with fellow purpose-driven founders and entrepreneurs, and we have found those attributes in abundance in Nima and Salt & Stone. Like Nima, we know what it means to build a company brick-by-brick, and to achieve the kind of success Salt & Stone has seen in the last seven years is truly impressive and something we want to be a part of. We share Nima's passion for innovation and his ambition to steer the beauty and wellness industry in a direction that prioritizes body and mind equally. We can't wait to see where this partnership takes us."

With Humble Growth's investment, Salt & Stone will continue to build a world class team of industry leaders while propelling the brand forward in its growth trajectory. Additionally, the company plans to deepen its global partnership with Sephora and expand product and category offerings to satisfy its enthusiastic legion of fans worldwide.

About Salt & Stone

Salt & Stone is a Los Angeles-based skin care and fragrance brand with global distribution across DTC, Sephora and select retail partners. Founder and former pro snowboarder Nima Jalali concepted the brand out of a passion for mindful daily rituals and an active outdoor lifestyle. Since launching in 2017, Salt & Stone has achieved explosive growth with its line of elevated self-care essentials and iconic fragrances that deepen a connection to the natural world. Salt & Stone is driven by a simple yet powerful mission to create premium products for those who are active in body, mind and spirit.

Learn more at www.saltandstone.com and @saltandstone on social media.

About Humble Growth

Humble Growth is a New York-based investment firm with a $312 million debut fund dedicated to propelling the success of companies that are changing the ways people eat, drink, feel, and live. The firm's co-founders include Andrew Abraham, Founder and CEO of Orgain, and Nick Giannuzzi, Founder of Giannuzzi Lewendon. Humble Growth's fund focuses primarily on minority-stake investments in high-growth, disruptive companies operating in the food, beverage, beauty and personal care, health and wellness, pet, and household products spaces. The recency and depth of operating experience by its co-founders, complemented by a seasoned investment team, allow the firm to provide highly unique and valuable strategic and tactical support to its partner companies, imbued with empathy, humility, and an unwavering commitment to success. For more information, please visit www.humblegrowth.com .

SOURCE Salt & Stone
SHANGHAI, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanyou Biopharmaceuticals (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Sanyou Bio") and Guangdong JiAnTeBo Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "JiAnTeBo") have signed a strategic cooperation agreement. Under the leadership of Professor Yin Zhinan, the founder and chairman of JiAnTeBo, the company has made original pioneering discoveries of new targets for metabolic diseases such as obesity, fatty liver, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. At present, building on its existing drug pipeline, JiAnTeBo is focusing on the development of new pipelines of agonist antibody drugs.

The purpose of this collaboration is to fully leverage the strong strength of Sanyou Bio's antibody discovery platform, involving screening from sub-libraries of Super-trillion fully human antibody library, Phage display mouse immune antibody library, and Phage display alpaca immune antibody library. Through processes such as antibody expression, purification, identification, affinity validation, and druggability analysis, the collaboration aims to identify and obtain more than 200 specific antibody drug lead molecules. JiAnTeBo will then use its comprehensive cell activity detection system for functional testing of these lead molecules. It is expected to open up new ways for the treatment of major diseases using agonist monoclonal antibodies.

Professor Yin Zhinan, the founder of JiAnTeBo, has deeply devoted to the field of immunometabolism for 30 years and is a world-leading immunologist and an eminent translational medicine scientist. He currently serves as the Dean and doctoral advisor of the Institute of Biomedical Translational Research at Jinan University. He is also a Distinguished Professor under the "Cheung Kong Scholars Programme" of the Ministry of Education and a recipient of the National Outstanding Youth Fund. Over seven years, Professor Yin Zhinan led the scientific research team to make original discoveries of multiple new targets for treating major diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, and Alzheimer's disease. The relevant results were published in journals such as Nature and he won China Annual Important Medical Progress Award. Professor Yin also took the lead in obtaining approval for the Guangdong Provincial Major Project of Basic and Applied Basic Research (Pilot) to explore new ways to treat fatty liver and Alzheimer's disease.

Professor Yin Zhinan mentioned, "We will always be committed to finding innovative therapies in the field of metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, fatty liver, and Alzheimer's disease. By partnering with Sanyou Bio, we will leverage their expertise technology and innovation capabilities in the field of antibodies, and based on our existing protein pipeline and mRNA new drug pipeline, to accelerate the layout of our original research pipeline and promote the development of agonist antibody drugs, thus bringing more effective treatment options to patients suffering major diseases around the world."

Dr. Lang Guojun, CEO of Sanyou Bio, stated, "We are thrilled to partner on R&D with JiAnTeBo, an excellent team dedicated to pioneering innovative therapies. With Sanyou Bio's three major innovative drug R&D technology platforms: 'Super-Trillion, Integration, Intelligence', we are confident in our ability to better assist JiAnTeBo in completing the strategic layout of innovative biological drugs. The strong alliance of the two parties will definitely bring new hope to more tumor and metabolic patients."

At the signing ceremony, key representatives from both companies were present to witness this significant event, including Professor Yin Zhinan (Founder), Yang Guang (CEO), and Yang Hengwen (CTO) from JiAnTeBo and Dr. Lang Guojun (CEO), Li Shuangqi (Project Director), Ren Zhiqiang (Project Leader), and Yang Aochu (Reginal Manager of Technical Services in South China) from Sanyou Bio.

About Guangdong JiAnTeBo Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

JiAnTeBo was established in December 2021 and is headquartered in Cuiheng New District, Zhongshan City, Guangdong Province. With the Institute of Biomedical Translational Research at Jinan University as its core, JiAnTeBo has extensively cooperated with first-class scientific research institutions, universities, and top-tier hospitals both domestically and internationally, focusing on innovative targets and devoting itself to the development of original new drugs for major diseases such as obesity and diabetes. The founder, Professor Yin Zhinan has been deeply engaged in the field of immunometabolism for 30 years. He is a globally renowned immunologist and outstanding translational medicine scientist. It took 7 years for Professor Yin Zhinan to lead the scientific research team and originally discover innovative targets for the treatment of major diseases such as obesity and insulin resistance. These significant findings and relevant results have been published in prestigious international journals such as Nature.

About Sanyou Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd.

Sanyou Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. is a world-leading high-tech biotechnology enterprise focusing on R&D and services of innovative biologic drugs. Sanyou has built the 4C business patterns that integrate "differentiated CRO, integrated CDO, innovative CPO and characteristic CRS", to accomplish the mission "to make the R&D easy for innovative biologics".

Sanyou has established an integrated innovative biologic drug R&D laboratory with advanced facilities, and has a professional team with the majority holding a Ph.D. or master degree. Sanyou has built three industry-leading innovative technology platforms featured by "super-trillion, integration, and intelligence", which are comprised of more than 50 sub-platforms with the core innovative super-trillion phage display platform, and supported by platforms of material preparation, biologics discovery, molecule optimization, in vitro and in vivo efficacy, production cell line construction, upstream and downstream process development, preclinical R&D, industrialization development, etc.

Sanyou's business network has expanded to all parts of the world, including Asia, US and Europe, and established branches in Boston, Philadelphia, San Diego and London. Sanyou has established friendly business relationships with more than 1000 pharmaceutical companies, drug R&D institutions and diagnostics companies worldwide. Sanyou received National-level certification as a high-tech enterprise and a Specialized and Sophisticated enterprise, and passed the ISO9001 quality assurance certification and GB/T intellectual property management system certification.

SOURCE Sanyou Bio
At the delivery ceremony, Mr. Lan Junjie, Assistant General Manager of SINOTRUK and CEO of African Region, cordially conversed with Mr. Ammar, General Manager of Said Salim BAKHRESA, jointly test-drove the vehicles, and participated in a joint interview with local media! Mr. Lan Junjie pointed out that Tanzania is a crucial hub on the Maritime Silk Road, a significant node in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and an important gateway for economic development in East Africa. In recent years, due to Tanzania's transportation and logistics advantages, the logistics division of AZAM Group has continuously grown and strengthened, becoming a leading enterprise in local logistics and transportation. Choosing SINOTRUK is not just about trusting the product quality, but also recognizing the core value of "Customer satisfaction is our mission" that SINOTRUK upholds. The successful delivery of this first batch of SITRAK marks not only a new milestone in our cooperation but also a new starting point for mutual development.

During a subsequent interview, Mr. Ammar, General Manager of Said Salim BAKHRESA, could not hide his excitement. He expressed that the timely delivery of the first batch of SITRAK fully demonstrates SINOTRUK's meticulous attention to detail and its commitment to creating value for customers through exceptional service. This highlights SINOTRUK's strength and influence in the heavy-duty truck market in Tanzania. In the future, both parties will continue to deepen cooperation, jointly promoting the continuous advancement of Tanzania's socio-economic development!

Together we share the glory, not letting down the trust. In the vast African market, SINOTRUK continuously improves itself, enhances product and service quality, offers a 3-year cross-border warranty policy, and leads Chinese commercial vehicles to continually capture new heights in the African market competition. This has earned the trust of customers such as AZAM Group. Thousands of African users can drive with peace of mind and create wealth efficiently due to SINOTRUK's increasingly excellent product strength and services. Both sides complement each other, thus creating one success story after another.

We believe that the successful delivery of this batch of SITRAK will help AZAM Group in Tanzania create higher value, jointly promote the efficient development of the logistics industry in Tanzania, and open-up a new chapter of mutual benefit, win-win cooperation, and hand in hand progress!

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Smithfield donates $100,000 and thousands of pounds of food to host resource rallies and help fight food insecurity

SMITHFIELD, Va., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Smithfield Foods is teaming up with leading anti-hunger organization Feed the Children this back-to-school season to provide children and families with wholesome food items, backpacks, shelf-stable food, household essentials and more in three communities where Smithfield Foods operates as a local employer.

Having access to safe and wholesome food is key to starting the school year off on the right foot. Post this Smithfield Foods and Feed the Children employees help distribute food and school supplies to local children and families at the resource rally in Crete, Nebraska, on Aug. 6.

Together, the organizations are holding three resource rallies, each serving approximately 400 families, to help take a bite out of hunger in local communities. The first rally was held in Crete, Nebraska, on Aug. 6, and future rallies are planned in Monmouth, Illinois, on Aug. 13, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on Aug. 26. The rallies are made possible by a $100,000 donation from Smithfield Foods.

Smithfield Foods is also donating thousands of pounds of much-needed protein to the families served at the events, including products such as Smithfield bacon, hams, ribs and loins.

"Having access to safe and wholesome food is key to starting the school year off on the right foot," said Steve Evans, vice president of community development for Smithfield Foods. "We're proud to partner with Feed the Children to ensure that local children and families have the support they need for success in and out of the classroom."

"Children cannot thrive unless their basic needs are met," said Travis Arnold, president and CEO of Feed the Children. "A widespread issue like childhood hunger will only be solved when enough people work together. Partners like Smithfield Foods are vital to our mission as we serve communities across the U.S."

At each of these events, families will receive a 25-pound box of shelf-stable food including canned vegetables, macaroni and cheese and cereal. Families will also receive a 15-pound box of household essentials containing items such as shampoo, laundry detergent, razors and toothpaste. In addition, children will receive backpacks that contain a variety of school supplies such as notebooks, folders, glue sticks, crayons, pens and pencils as well as a shelf-stable meal kit.

With one in five children in the U.S. experiencing food insecurity, hunger remains a serious issue in many communities, especially during summer months and the back-to-school season. With the cost of supplies steadily increasing, it can be difficult for many families to send their children to school with the materials they need to learn and grow in the classroom.

Smithfield also recently donated $500,000 to fund SUN Bucks in North Carolina, a newly established, permanent USDA program that provides food assistance to children and families during the summer, and $100,000 to two pay-what-you-can cafes in Missouri and North Carolina.

Smithfield's hunger relief program, Helping Hungry Homes, has provided hundreds of millions of servings of protein all 50 U.S. states, as well as in Poland, Romania and Mexico, since 2008. Smithfield donated nearly 28 million servings of protein to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs across the U.S. in 2023 and has pledged to donate 200 million servings of protein by 2025.

About Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, since 1936, Smithfield Foods, Inc. is a U.S. food company that employs more than 54,000 people in seven countries and partners with thousands of American farmers. As one of the world's leading vertically integrated protein companies, we are dedicated to producing "Good food. Responsibly." to feed a growing world population. We believe in the power of protein to end food insecurity and have donated hundreds of millions of food servings to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs in all 50 U.S. states. Smithfield boasts a portfolio of high-quality iconic brands, such as Smithfield, Eckrich, Gwaltney and Nathan's Famous, among many others. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com and connect with us on Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Threads.

About Feed the Children

Feed the Children is a leading nonprofit committed to ending childhood hunger. The organization believes that no child should go to bed hungry, and so it provides children and families in the U.S. and around the world with the food and essentials kids need to grow and thrive.

Through its programs and partnerships, the organization feeds children today while helping their families and communities build resilient futures. In addition to food, Feed the Children distributes household and personal care items across the United States to help parents and caregivers maintain stable, food-secure households. Internationally, it expands access to nutritious meals, safe water, improved hygiene, and training in sustainable living. As responsible stewards of its resources, Feed the Children is driven to pursue innovative, holistic, and child-focused solutions to the complex challenges of hunger, food insecurity, and poverty.

For children everywhere, the organization believes that having enough to eat is a fundamental right. Learn how you can help create a world without childhood hunger at feedthechildren.org.

SOURCE Smithfield Foods, Inc.
"We are honored to be recognized by Solar Power World as one of the top solar contractors for 2024," said CEO J.T. Garrison. Post this

Selection to the Top Solar Contractors list is a significant achievement that recognizes solar companies for their contributions to the industry based on the number of kilowatts installed in the previous year. The list includes a variety of solar firms, including developers, construction companies, and installers, and serves as a comprehensive resource for those looking to understand the top players in the solar market. Solar Power World compiles the list through rigorous data collection and verification, ensuring that only the most impactful companies are featured.

"We are honored to be recognized by Solar Power World as one of the top solar contractors for 2024," said J.T. Garrison, SolarTech owner and CEO. "This achievement is a testament to our team's hard work, dedication, and our unwavering commitment to providing our customers innovative and sustainable solar solutions."

Since its founding 23 years ago, SolarTech has executed over 13,000 renewable energy projects, surpassing 75,000 kW installed. In 2023 alone, SolarTech deployed 8,592 kWenough to power approximately 1,600 average American homes for an entire year. With a dedicated team of over 200 in-house employees, SolarTech continues to innovate and expand its services, delivering sustainable energy solutions across California and now Arizona, where it recently expanded operations. Notable achievements to date include strategic partnerships with auto dealerships Mossy Nissan and Toyota & Hyundai of Escondido and a leading engineering firm in Pro Engineering Consulting, the introduction of pioneering programs unique to SolarTech such as Delta 2.0, which allows property owners to generate revenue via producing, discounting, and selling solar energy directly to tenants with no out-of-pocket costs for installation, and imminent launches in Nevada and Colorado following the recent expansion to Arizona.

About SolarTech

SolarTech is a full-service solar energy company delivering integrated, high-performance solutions for residential, commercial, and non-profit clients. Its services include solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, energy storage systems (ESS), electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, roofing, solar pool heating systems, and comprehensive maintenance programs.

With over two decades of experience, SolarTech provides timely project delivery, prioritizes job site safety, and upholds the value of in-house expertise with a team of certified solar analysts, technicians, and installers. Their dependable, solutions-oriented team provides high-quality, efficient, and sustainable energy solutions that meet the unique needs of each customer.

For more information about SolarTech and its services, please visit www.solartechonline.com .

SOURCE SolarTech
LOS ANGELES and SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Spaceport, the leading innovator in unlocking the power of intellectual Property (IP) and user-generated content (UGC), today announced a new strategic partnership with Com2uS Platform, a specialized IT content company within the Com2uS group, a global leader in the gaming industry. This partnership aims to expand the reach and engagement of UGC on major gaming platforms such as Roblox and Fortnite.

Com2uS Platform will use Spaceport and its IP platform for the exclusive representation of a variety of its industry-leading IP, aimed at securing licensing deals for the development of third-party content within Roblox and Fortnite globally. This partnership streamlines the licensing process for creators and developers seeking to integrate Com2uS group's beloved franchises into the booming world of UGC.

Spaceport recently announced its partnership with Toei Animation , the global studio behind One Piece and Dragon Ball, for its latest feature film, HYPERGALACTIC into Roblox and Fortnite. Both of these collaborations are set to redefine branded content and fan engagement by introducing some of the best IP in the world into the most popular content platforms for gamers of all ages.

"Partnering with Spaceport aligns perfectly with our vision of expanding our reach and fostering creativity within the UGC space," said Sogwon Choi, CEO of Com2uS Platform. "Our collaboration will not only enhance the UGC landscape on prominent platforms like Roblox and Fortnite but also provide creators with unparalleled opportunities to showcase their talents and leverage new revenue streams."

With this partnership, Com2uS Platform gains access to Spaceport's scalable "Internet of IP" licensing platform and deep relationship with developers. Spaceport facilitates IP licensing, provenance, royalty payments and efficient deal negotiation and management. Brands and developers benefit from a streamlined process for acquiring licenses to integrate Com2uS group's popular franchises within real-world applications that are built on the biggest UGC platforms representing more than 500 million monthly active users.

Additionally, Spaceport's team offers expansive backgrounds across IP licensing, gaming, and blockchain. Co-founders Le Zhang and Lida Tang bring extensive experience from the gaming and licensing industry, having previously helped build and launch billion-dollar gaming franchises like BioShock and Saints Row. Their successful exits from previous VC-backed startups further solidify their expertise in building and scaling innovative tech companies.

"We're thrilled to join forces with Com2uS group, a true pioneer in the gaming industry," said Le Zhang, CEO of Spaceport. "This strategic partnership unlocks exciting opportunities for brands and creators to leverage Com2uS group's iconic IP within the ever-expanding UGC landscape. By simplifying and streamlining the licensing process, we empower creators to bring these beloved characters and stories to life in new and innovative ways, while opening new revenue streams."

About Com2uS Platform

Com2uS Platform is an IT company leading the paradigm of the future content industry, a subsidiary of Com2uS Holdings. It has established and is servicing advanced infrastructures targeted at the global market, including Hivewhich integrates Com2uS Group's gaming service expertiseand the NFT marketplace X-PLANETLeveraging the IP and business know-how of the Com2uS Group.

Headquartered in South Korea, Com2uS Group operates internationally with offices in the United States, Germany, Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, China, Thailand and Vietnam. Com2uS Group is taking a new leap as a global comprehensive content and platform company to lead the global digital paradigm.

About Spaceport

Spaceport is building the Internet of IP (Intellectual Property) by seamlessly connecting brands and agencies with the world's largest network of creators and developers. The company's mission is to democratize access to the world's best IPs, empowering owners to unlock new revenue streams and enhance fan engagement. As the leading solution for millions of creators on top platforms like Roblox, Fortnite and Threadless, Spaceport is shaping a future where all IP, both online and offline, is efficiently managed and monetized through their innovative Web3-based infrastructure. Founded in 2022 and headquartered next to MIT in Cambridge, MA, Spaceport is pioneering the future of IP. Learn more at https://www.spaceport.xyz/

SOURCE Spaceport
The Peoples Republic of China has taken what the White House calls a valuable step forward in helping to restrict the production of illegal fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid responsible for the dramatic spike in drug overdose deaths that have ravaged the United States in recent years.

National Security Council Spokesperson Sean Savett announced in a statement that the PRC will begin scheduling three essential precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of illicit fentanyl. Scheduling allows the substance to be subject to domestic and international controls. This marks the third significant scheduling action by the PRC since President Biden met with [PRC] President Xi in November 2023, Spokesperson Savett said.

He noted that this action follows the recent senior official Counternarcotics Working Group meeting between the United States and the PRC, where the two countries discussed key initiatives, among them, disrupting the illicit financing of transnational criminal organizations, accelerating the scheduling of precursor chemicals, and finding ways to increase law enforcement cooperation.

On the issue of law enforcement, in July the U.S. indicted a Chinese national, Minsu Fang, for his part in a conspiracy involving the importation of what is believed to be the largest amount of fentanyl precursors found in the southern district of Texas and one of the largest in the country. We charged this defendant for importing enough fentanyl precursor chemicals from China to kill millions of Americans, said Attorney General Merrick Garland in a statement. Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat the United States has ever faced, and the Justice Department is committed to breaking apart every link in the global fentanyl supply chain.

To that end, the United States has also sanctioned more than two dozen Chinese entities and individuals involved in the production of chemicals used to make fentanyl. Following pressure by the United States, the PRC itself shut down some sellers of precursor drugs that are used by Mexican cartels to manufacture fentanyl. In June, China also cooperated with the United States in arresting a fugitive the United States charges was involved in a Chinese money-laundering network working with Mexican drug cartels.

The United States will continue to press the PRC to deepen its cooperation on disrupting the flow of fentanyl and its precursors into the United States. As U.S. Ambassador to the PRC Nicholas Burns said about bilateral efforts to combat synthetic drug trafficking, This critical cooperation saves lives.
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SPATCO Energy Solutions ("SPATCO"), a visionary provider of infrastructure services and innovative turnkey solutions for petroleum fueling, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), environmental and EV market segments, completed the acquisition of Blue1 Energy Equipment ("Blue1"), a leading manufacturer of DEF storage and dispensing equipment located in Greenville, SC.

Blue1 provides a range of equipment and services to petroleum, EV, commercial and industrial customers across North America with a concentration on manufacturing quality DEF products. By combining their industry-leading expertise and extensive experience, the combined entity is set to offer an unparalleled range of products that address the evolving needs of the market. This acquisition harnesses the strengths of both companiesSPATCO DEF's innovative designs and superior installation services and Blue1's robust operational efficienciescreating a powerhouse in the sector.

"We are very excited to add Blue1 Energy Equipment to our SPATCO family," said John Force, CEO of SPATCO. He continued, "Blue1 has built a market leading reputation based on high quality products and value-added customer service. Together we will offer the market an unparalleled level of DEF equipment and solutions."

Tom Nuckolls, President of Blue1, commented "SPATCO has an outstanding reputation in the marketplace and one of the broadest DEF product offerings available. Their penetration in the petroleum market will bring additional opportunities to the company. The combined business will give us the market leading DEF product and solution portfolio that our customers are demanding."

The combined company will now have close to 1,050 employees in 17 states and over 33 office locations. With over 89 years of experience as the leading distributor of petroleum fueling equipment, installation, maintenance, environmental services, and electrical vehicle infrastructure, SPATCO remains at the forefront of fueling innovation and growth.

SPATCO Energy Solutions is a single-source supplier, installer and maintenance provider of innovative liquid handling equipment for petroleum, industrial, DEF, and Electric Vehicle charging. For over 89 years, SPATCO has been a trusted leader in customer service with their longstanding customer base of national and regional convenience store operators, major oil companies, commercial fleet and military fueling facilities, trucking companies, regional oil jobbers and commercial bulk petroleum plants. SPATCO is headquartered in Charlotte, NC with 32 additional office locations across the Southeast, with service and support extending across the United States. To learn more, visit www.spatco.com.

Contact Information Business Inquiries

Tonia Ballard

VP of Supply Chain Management

[email protected]

T 704.596.4373

Media Inquiries

Lauren Guyton

Marketing Project Manager

[email protected]

T 704.596.4373

SOURCE SPATCO Energy Solutions
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In a move to address the escalating student debt crisis, California has introduced AB 2507, an innovative solution designed to alleviate the financial burdens of higher education. If successful, this landmark legislation will establish an interest-free, no fee student loan program for California, in collaboration with the Jewish Free Loan Association (JFLA), to provide relief to thousands of students. The program will be piloted in Southern California at UCLA, CSU Northridge, and Glendale Community College. AB 2507 was authored by Assemblymember Laura Friedman and sponsored by JFLA and the Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California (JPAC).

AB 2507 aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable for all Californians. By eliminating interest on student loans, the program will significantly reduce the financial strain on students and their families, allowing graduates to enter the workforce without the burden of insurmountable debt. This initiative reflects California's commitment to investing in the future of young people and ensuring that education remains a viable pathway to opportunity.

Introduced during this legislative session, AB 2507 has already passed the California Assembly Committee on Higher Education, Assembly Appropriations Committee, and the Assembly floor with a unanimous vote. In June, the bill was introduced to the California Senate Education Committee where it also passed unanimously and is now awaiting a hearing by the California Senate Appropriations Committee. If it passes this critical juncture, AB 2507 will move to the Senate floor for a vote before heading to the Governor's desk for a signature.

"Education is a right, not a privilege," said Rachel Grose, the Executive Director of JFLA. "We are beyond thrilled to partner with California on this innovative program, which aligns perfectly with our mission to provide interest-free loans that promote financial stability and self-sufficiency." JFLA has a longstanding 121-year history of offering interest-free loans to individuals and families in need.

AB 2507 is currently seeking support to move through the California Senate Appropriations Committee. You can sign this letter of support to help move this bill to the Senate floor.

For more information about AB 2507 and JFLA's interest-free student loan program, please contact Mimi Sroka by phone at (323) 761-8830, x 120 or by email at [email protected] .

About the Jewish Free Loan Association

Jewish Free Loan Association (JFLA) is the only non-sectarian interest-free lending organization in Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Our interest-free, no-fee loans are the ideal tool to impact the major economic issues facing our community, including predatory lending, housing stability, student debt, access to medical and dental care, domestic violence, business insecurity, and more. JFLA has served the community for 121 years, and currently has an outstanding portfolio balance of over $18+ million to thousands of clients throughout the region.

Contact: Mimi Sroka, Director of Program

Jewish Free Loan Association

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (323) 761-8830, x 120

SOURCE Jewish Free Loan Association
Products To Be Sold On-Site At STIIIZY's Grass Lands Activation And In Select Bay Area STIIIZY Retail Stores

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- STIIIZY, the leading lifestyle brand in cannabis, together with Outside Lands, the Bay Area's globally renowned festival, has launched an exclusive collaboration for Outside Lands 2024.

The collaboration marks STIIIZY's first-ever Outside Lands co-branded limited-edition cannabis products, which includes:

Purple Punch (Indica) 40's Preroll Multipack - 2.5G 5 Pack

Magic Melon ( Sativa) All in One THC Pen - 1G

in One THC Pen - 1G Blue Raspberry Blast (Indica) Stiiizy Edibles - 50MG 5 Pack

STIIIZY x Outside Lands exclusive products will be sold on-site at STIIIZY's Grass Lands activation and in select Bay Area STIIIZY retail locations, including: Union Square, Mission, Park Merced, Oakland and Alameda  on sale starting Friday, August 9 until supplies last (product availability may vary). Visit STIIIZY.com to check out more information once this limited-edition product line becomes available.

Festival-goers can also stop by STIIIZY's immersive weed cultivation experience at Grass Lands which will feature a 30-foot cannabis grow cultivation replica, complete with 60 life-like cannabis plants, 8 LED grow lamps and real equipment from STIIIZY's indoor cultivation.

"We're proud to announce our partnership with Outside Lands, dropping limited time only products to the public for the first time in our company's history. Customers and fans can find it at Northern California STIIIZY retailers, or festival goers can visit us at our grow activation onsite during the festival," said Brian Kim, Director of Marketing at STIIIZY.

Returning for its Sweet 16, Outside Lands celebrates the finest music, food, art and cannabis in Golden Gate Park on August 9-11. Grass Lands presented by Embarc is Outside Lands' groundbreaking cannabis experience located in 'SoPo' (South of the Polo Field). Returning for its sixth year, Grass Lands is designed to bring California's best cannabis marketplace to life and highlight innovations and culture in the cannabis industry. Grass Lands is the first curated cannabis experience at a major American music festival and serves as a way of celebrating, educating, and integrating cannabis products into our daily lives. Available to festival attendees 21+ in age, the highly anticipated space will once again feature the return of sales and consumption of cannabis at the festival.

Visit here for more on Grass Lands, and be sure to follow @OLGrassLands on Instagram for a closer look at the 2024 experience.

For more information, please visit: www.stiiizy.com and www.sfoutsidelands.com .

Click HERE to download hi-res images.

About STIIIZY

STIIIZY 's mission is to provide consumers with consistent, high-quality, and trusted products inspired by authentic cannabis culture. Headquartered in Los Angeles, STIIIZY is a vertically integrated cannabis company founded in 2017 by seasoned industry experts. STIIIZY is committed to making a positive impact on its local communities, including by investing capital to improve parks and schools, and providing assistance and resources to veterans. With more than 1,700 employees serving over 20,000 customers daily, STIIIZY is the largest private cannabis company and top selling cannabis brand in the U.S. STIIIZY's multi-state operations include seven cultivation facilities, five manufacturing facilities, four distribution facilities, 34 retail stores in California, and three retail stores in Michigan.

SOURCE STIIIZY
Federal Judge Rules for Union as Amazon Teamsters Campaign Grows Stronger

ERLANGER, Ky., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Brotherhood of Teamsters scored a key victory in the union's national fight to organize workers at Amazon after a federal judge ruled the Teamsters are allowed to picket the massive Amazon Air Hub without interference at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

The air cargo hub, known as KCVG, shares the same property with DHL, home to thousands of ramp and tug and sort workers actively organizing and winning contracts with the Teamsters.

The US District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky said Wednesday that the Kenton County Airport Board, which controls KCVG, could not restrict workers' right to free speech. The same board had earlier blocked demonstrations by the Teamsters against Amazon, prompting the union's request for an injunction.

"This is a significant victory for Amazon workers in Northern Kentucky and around the country who are sick of being silenced by this trillion-dollar corporation. Amazon workers everywhere are coming together to become Teamsters and win the rights and protections they deserve," said Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien. "You can be sure the Teamsters will carry this precedent to other communities around the country where Amazon is exploiting loopholes and breaking laws to take advantage of workers and inflate its bottom line. Our union of 1.3 million hardworking members applaud the court for doing the right thing in this case."

Teamsters Local 89 in Louisville has been meeting with Amazon workers and organizing pickets and other rallies around KCVG this summer. A permit filed by the local was denied in July after the airport board told the Teamsters the roadside site was not approved for demonstrations. In this week's ruling, the District Court ordered the board to allow the union to picket on sidewalks and other public easements around KCVG.

More than 100 Amazon drivers in Skokie, Illinois, went on strike last month over the company's unfair labor practices, and have been organizing with other Amazon workers to extend their picket lines to warehouse and driver facilities in New York and California. In June, 5,500 members of the Amazon Labor Union voted to affiliate with the Teamsters by a near unanimous 98.3 percent. The labor affiliation brings powerful resources to Amazon warehouse workers as they organize and demand strong first contracts. ALU-IBT Local 1, newly chartered by the Teamsters, will represent workers at JFK8 in Staten Island, N.Y.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

Kara Deniz, (202) 497-6610

[email protected]

SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters
THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TETRA Technologies, Inc. ("TETRA" or the "Company") (NYSE: TTI) today released on its investor relations website an S-K 1300 Bromine Definitive Feasibility Study ("DFS") containing positive results including certain financial information on the development of TETRA's Arkansas bromine assets in the Evergreen Unit based on engineering studies, reservoir analysis, certain cost and revenue assumptions, plus quotes received on major components received or completed to date. The Technical Report Summary ("TRS") was prepared to update the previously reported resources presented by RESPEC Company, LLC ("RESPEC") and incorporates the results of the definitive feasibility study, including bromine reserve determinations.

TETRA currently sources elemental bromine from a combination of long-term supply agreements and open-market purchases. TETRA uses this third-party sourced elemental bromine to manufacture at its West Memphis, Arkansas facility, offshore completion fluids for the oil and gas industry and ultra-high purity zinc bromide (TETRA PureFlow) utilized in battery electrolytes for long-duration energy storage ("LDES"). TETRA's facility uses proprietary processes for reacting elemental bromine with various other raw materials and refining the resultant brominated products. Development of its Arkansas bromine assets will allow TETRA to become vertically integrated (referred to herein as the "Vertically Integrated Production Case") for its future elemental bromine requirements and is expected to allow TETRA to phase out third-party purchases of elemental bromine over time.

The highlights of the DFS report are as follows:

Vertically Integrated Production Case Net Present Value ("NPV"), at a 10% discount rate, of $710 million and is based on the current bromine business plus the proposed investment in this bromine project allowing TETRA to phase out third-party sourced elemental bromine. This case compares to TETRA's current bromine business with third-party purchases of elemental bromine of NPV $337 million ("Third-Party Bromine Purchase Only Case"), also at a 10% discount rate. This project is projected to create an incremental NPV of $374 million . (1)

and is based on the current bromine business plus the proposed investment in this bromine project allowing TETRA to phase out third-party sourced elemental bromine. This case compares to TETRA's current bromine business with third-party purchases of elemental bromine of NPV ("Third-Party Bromine Purchase Only Case"), also at a 10% discount rate. This project is projected to create an incremental NPV of . Internal Rate of Return ("IRR") of 62% for the Vertically Integrated Production Case. (1)

744 ktons of measured and indicated bromine resources have been upgraded to proven and probable reserves. In addition to proven and probable reserves, the Evergreen Unit is estimated to contain an additional 158 ktons of measured and indicated resources and 541 ktons of inferred resources of bromine.

40-year projected operating life. Proven and probable bromine reserves of 744 ktons plus measured and indicated bromine resources of 158 ktons support at least 40 years of operations based on reservoir studies completed by TETRA's advisors and consultants. (1)

Phase I plant processing is expected to have a capacity of 75 million lbs of bromine per year. The project economics reflect initial production volumes of only 48 million pounds of elemental bromine per year, increasing the volumes currently being sourced by TETRA under long-term contract by over 50%.

Post Final Investment Decision ("FID") capital expenditures of $270 million assumes that 35% of the upstream capital expenditures are absorbed by TETRA's partner in the Evergreen Brine Unit and does not assume a lithium project is constructed at the same time as the bromine project. If the lithium project is constructed, certain upstream, common and shared capital expenditures have the potential to be allocated to the lithium project, materially improving the overall economics of the bromine project. Costs incurred prior to FID are not reflected in these economics as they are viewed as sunk costs.

assumes that 35% of the upstream capital expenditures are absorbed by TETRA's partner in the Evergreen Brine Unit and does not assume a lithium project is constructed at the same time as the bromine project. If the lithium project is constructed, certain upstream, common and shared capital expenditures have the potential to be allocated to the lithium project, materially improving the overall economics of the bromine project. Costs incurred prior to FID are not reflected in these economics as they are viewed as sunk costs. The increased volumes and enhanced margins from TETRA moving from a Third-Party Bromine Purchase Only Case to a Vertically Integrated Production Case are expected to position TETRA to increase revenue from bromine-related product by between $200 million to $250 million when the bromine plant is in full production. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to increase by between $90 million to $115 million as a result of the higher sales volumes for the offshore oil and gas sector, long-duration energy battery storage, and the lower production costs of those products from being vertically integrated when compared against third-party purchases of elemental bromine. (1) Once a FID is made, plant construction is expected to be approximately 24 months.

to when the bromine plant is in full production. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to increase by between to as a result of the higher sales volumes for the offshore oil and gas sector, long-duration energy battery storage, and the lower production costs of those products from being vertically integrated when compared against third-party purchases of elemental bromine. Once a FID is made, plant construction is expected to be approximately 24 months. Payback of post-FID capital expenditures is expected to be 5.7 years reflecting the higher volumes available to TETRA from insourcing all its elemental bromine requirements at costs lower than what the Company is procuring today. (1)

TETRA's approximately $400 million of United States tax loss carryforward are expected to be utilized for this project and are reflected in the economics.

of tax loss carryforward are expected to be utilized for this project and are reflected in the economics. TETRA is expected to fund this project from borrowing under credit facilities currently available to the Company, which includes a $75 million delayed draw facility, and from cash flow from the existing business. The timing of this project will be aligned to ensure the base business free cash flow is available to the Company. TETRA intends to maintain a net leverage target of less than 2.5 times adjusted EBITDA on a trailing twelve-month basis.

Because this investment is expected to enable TETRA to vertically integrate its elemental bromine supply, the following benefits to TETRA are anticipated:

Enhanced Margins: TETRA expects to eventually replace the purchase of elemental bromine from third party suppliers with lower cost insourced elemental bromine as a result of the investment in this project. The volatility of open market elemental bromine purchases are also expected to be reduced from the prices TETRA pays third parties, allowing TETRA to bid for long-term contracts with greater certainty of input costs. Increased production volumes manufactured through TETRA's West Memphis plant allows for greater utilization and better plant costs absorption.





plant allows for greater utilization and better plant costs absorption. Provide Higher Volumes of Cost-Effective Bromine: In recent years, TETRA has had to purchase more elemental bromine at spot-market prices because the volumes available from TETRA's long-term supply agreement have not been sufficient to meet overall demand for a growing offshore oil and gas market. This increase in offshore deepwater demand combined with an expected growth in demand for TETRA PureFlow ultra-high purity zinc bromide-based electrolyte will exceed TETRA's currently available third-party supply volumes. This project is expected to allow TETRA to meet those requirements.

TETRA Bromine Products Business

TETRA has long used elemental bromine as part of its high-value completion fluids business, primarily in offshore applications and especially in deepwater where TETRA estimates that approximately 70% of the Gulf of Mexico development wells use elemental bromine-based fluid s for well completions. The offshore and deepwater markets continue to show signs of expansion and in 2024 the Company is expected to again exceed the elemental bromine volumes available under its long-term supply agreement. TETRA has been supplementing its elemental bromine supply agreement with open-market spot purchases at costs higher than its current long-term supply agreement. The demand in 2024 and beyond is expected to exceed prior year levels assuming relatively constant commodity prices reflecting the strong growth in the deepwater offshore markets.

In addition to the traditional oil and gas bromide fluids market, in 2021 TETRA announced the introduction of a ultra-high purity zinc bromide TETRA PureFlow fluids ("PureFlow") for use as a key component to the full electrolyte needed to enable long-duration energy storage. TETRA has qualified sales of PureFlow with three zinc bromide-based electrolyte long-duration energy storage companies based on their evaluation of the product and to date has delivered commercial orders to Eos Energy Enterprises with an additional customer expected in 2025. The combined existing and potential demand for elemental bromine-based products from a recovering offshore market and an emerging long-duration energy storage market represents significant growth opportunities for the Company.

(1)The economics discussed in this release are based on a number of key assumptions, which are further discussed in the DFS. Please read the DFS and the assumptions discussed therein for further information. Such assumptions are based on information known to RESPEC and TETRA as of the date of the DFS, are subject to change and actual results may differ materially from the economics and assumptions presented in the DFS.

S-K 1300 Definitive Feasibility Study

TETRA has published on its web site a report titled "S-K 1300 Technical Report Summary for TETRA Technologies, Inc. Bromine Brine Definitive Feasibility Study for the TETRA Evergreen Brine Unit in Arkansas, United States". The study has been prepared, reviewed and certified by RESPEC, subject to the qualifications contained in the report. The S-K 1300 Definitive Feasibility Study can be located on TETRA's web site: https://ir.onetetra.com/presentations

There is no certainty that the economics contained in the S-K 1300 Definitive Feasibility Study will be realized. These economics are preliminary in nature and include proven and probable reserves. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves have not demonstrated economic viability. Additional technical work and/or production history will be required to convert remaining measured and indicated mineral resources to reserves.

Company Overview

TETRA Technologies, Inc. is an energy services and solutions company focused on developing environmentally conscious services and solutions that help make people's lives better. With operations on six continents, the Company's portfolio consists of Energy Services, Industrial Chemicals, and Lithium Ventures. In addition to providing products and services to the oil and gas industry and calcium chloride for diverse applications, TETRA is expanding into the low-carbon energy market with chemistry expertise, key mineral acreage, and global infrastructure, helping to meet the demand for sustainable energy in the twenty-first century. Visit the Company's website at www.onetetra.com for more information.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release includes certain statements that are deemed to be forward-looking statements. Generally, the use of words such as "may," "see," "expectation," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "projects," "anticipate," "believe," "assume," "could," "should," "plans," "targets" or similar expressions that convey the uncertainty of future events, activities, expectations or outcomes identify forward-looking statements that the Company intends to be included within the safe harbor protections provided by the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements include statements concerning measured, indicated and inferred mineral resource estimates and proven and probable reserve estimates, the potential extraction of bromine and lithium from the leased acreage, the economic viability thereof, the demand for such resources, the volumes to be produced and the timing and costs of such activities, the assumptions contained in the Definitive Feasibility Study, the ability to obtain the required capital to develop the project, economic and operating conditions that are outside of our control, including statements concerning demand for our products in the oil and gas industry; potential revenue associated with prospective long duration energy storage projects; the ability and timing necessary to obtain an initial economic assessment regarding our bromine and lithium acreage; the ability to obtain contractual consents in certain circumstances; projections concerning the Company's business activities, financial guidance, capital expenditures, profitability, estimated revenues, estimated adjusted EBITDA, and statements regarding the Company's beliefs, expectations, plans, goals, future events and performance, and other statements that are not purely historical. With respect to the Company's disclosures of measured, indicated and inferred mineral resources, uncertainty exists regarding whether such resources will ever be economically developed. Investors are cautioned that mineral resources do not have a demonstrated economic value and further exploration may not result in the estimation of a mineral reserve. Therefore, it cannot be assumed that all or any part of our resources can be economically or legally commercialized. These forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company, input received from outside expertized service providers, as well as its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Such statements are subject to a myriad of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that could affect actual results are described in the section titled "Risk Factors" contained in the Company's Annual Reports on Form 10-K, as well as other risks identified from time to time in its reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

SOURCE TETRA Technologies, Inc.
INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- American Legion National Commander Daniel Seehafer called on the Department of Defense (DoD) and Congress to upgrade security to protect U.S. servicemembers following rocket attacks by an Iranian-backed militia group against American forces housed at al-Asad Air Base in Iraq.

"We were horrified to learn that some of our servicemembers were wounded when they came under rocket fire from terrorist groups operating in the region," Seehafer said. "Together we pray for the recovery of our troops and our thoughts are with their families. At the same time, we call on members of Congress and DoD leadership to exhaust all resources to protect our forces from further attack. Additionally, we must work with Iraqi partners to ensure the safety and security of all personnel."

Seehafer also applauded Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's recent decision to relocate ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers to the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean. The strategic move is an effort to deter a wider regional conflict and to respond to any threats faced by U.S. troops and allies in the region.

"During my visit to Naval Support Activity Rota, Spain back in May, I saw firsthand how the brave sailors of the USS Bulkeley trained and prepared to respond to threats in the region," he recalled. "I have full confidence in their abilities to protect and defend our troops and national interests in the region."

Media Contact: Henry Howard, 317.630.1298, [email protected]

SOURCE The American Legion National Headquarters
Fish Oil Supplements Are Known for Their Unpleasant Taste and Fishy After-Burps. Arctic Blue Is Changing That Through Pure, Clean, Fresh Oil.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fish oil supplements are the best way to get DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids. However, many products on the market contain oxidized oils that create unpleasant experiences for consumers, such as fishy after burps and indigestion. Arctic Blue's unique, high-quality approach to fish oil production ensures its fish oil supplements are both bioavailable and pleasant to consume.

Omega-3 supplements are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. However, many consumers struggle to get enough of these essential fatty acids (which cannot be created in the body organically but must be obtained externally). Many turn to supplements as a solution. Nuts, seeds, and certain vegetable oils can provide smaller doses of omega-3s, but fish oil is widely recognized as one of the richest sources of DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids.

While this addresses the need for omega-3s, though, it introduces another issue: fishy burps. "Most fish oils have already been on the shelf or in the pantry for too long before a consumer actually takes the supplement," says Ludo Van de Wiel, founder of the elite fish oil brand Arctic Blue. "Over time, the oil is oxidized, which gives it that rancid, fishy taste. This can lead to unpleasant burps and indigestion."

Many consumers try to find ways around this oxidation issue. Arthritis Foundation, for example, recommends freezing fish oil capsules to slow down the oxidation process or using capsules with thick enteric coatings to avoid their breaking down before exiting the stomach. From Van de Wiel's perspective, though, this wouldn't be necessary in the first place if supplement brands invested in providing higher-quality, fresher fish oil supplements.

This is why Arctic Blue omega-3 capsules and oils are setting a new standard in the fish oil supplement industry. "We process our fish oil in sustainable ways right on the boat," Van de Wiel explains. "Our fish come from clean waters, especially the Barents Sea, and we keep them fresh, moving them from boat to pantry as quickly as possible."

The result of this proactive preservation process is a smooth, clean supplement packed with nutrients and (critically) maintaining low oxidation values. "When you can do that," Van de Wiel concludes, "your omega-3 supplements will never give fishy burps after ingestion. Guaranteed."

About Arctic Blue

Arctic Blue is a Dutch brand that was created in 2015 by Ludo Van de Wiel and operates out of Utrecht in the Netherlands. The founder and CEO is a fish oil expert with a master's degree in biotechnology from the renowned Dutch Wageningen University (an elite institution that focuses on health, nutrition, and agricultural studies). As a father of three, Van de Wiel wished to find a clean fish oil that could nourish his family without everyone struggling to swallow it in the first place. Arctic Blue is the realization of that wish. The brand's fish oils have an agreeable flavor profile and are sourced from the Arctic (Norway and Alaska) along with algae-based vegan alternatives, marine collagen, and other related products. Learn more at arctic-blue.com.

Media Contact:

Ludo van de Wiel

Arctic Blue Omega BV

030-2447097

[email protected]

SOURCE Arctic Blue
ATLANTA, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Huxley Medical, a developer of technologies that streamline cardiopulmonary care, has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its groundbreaking, chest-worn, sleep apnea diagnostic patch, SANSA.

With this clearance, Huxley Medical can move forward to market its device.

SANSA application

The patch is a first-of-its-kind, at-home, single-point-of-skin-contact diagnostic device and represents a breakthrough in medical innovation. Unlike current patches, rings, watches, or finger probes, SANSA does not require additional attachments, wires, belts, or hoses.

Its patented combination of sensors and materials precisely measures eight physiological channels including blood oxygen saturation, EKG-derived heart rate, respiratory effort, chest movement, sleep staging, snoring, body position, and actigraphy.

This clearance is a significant milestone for Huxley and positions its SANSA device as the first and only FDA-cleared chest-worn patch that utilizes advanced signal processing and artificial intelligence to detect sleep disordered breathing while simultaneously providing an electrocardiogram (EKG) reference channel to record electrical signals from the heart.

"Our SANSA technology offers healthcare providers a cutting-edge tool to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes," said Chris Hallett, Huxley Medical's co-founder and chief commercial officer with more than 25 years of experience in the field. The announcement is the latest milestone for the company, which has raised more than $20 million in investment capital and grant funding since its founding in 2019.

Sleep apnea is a serious disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leaving patients tired and irritable, even after a full night's sleep. It can lead to more serious health issues, including heart and metabolic diseases, and strokes. The disorder costs $86.9 billion in lost productivity, $26.2 billion in motor vehicle accidents, and $6.5 billion in workplace hazards in the U.S. each year, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

"From my prior experience developing programs to engage sleep physicians and cardiologists, I know first-hand the difficulties in getting patients with sleep apnea and comorbid arrhythmias diagnosed and managed," Hallett said. "SANSA will begin to eliminate these barriers for physicians and patients."

The SANSA platform has already undergone a comprehensive clinical trial involving 533 patients across seven U.S. sites, including at the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Michigan, Emory University, and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. SANSA has demonstrated its efficacy in measurement reliability and performance for use in diagnosing mild, moderate, and severe sleep apnea.

The clinical trial provided robust data supporting SANSA's safety and effectiveness, including:

high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in sleep apnea detection compared to in-lab sleep tests;

improved patient compliance and comfort due to its non-invasive nature;

excellent performance on all skin tones for diverse patient management, which had been a challenge in the past.

Clinicians who have utilized the SANSA device say it's a milestone in innovation.

"As electrophysiologists, we are already quite comfortable in using patch-based EKG monitors for arrhythmia monitoring," said Dr. Suneet Mittal, Chair of Valley Health System's Cardiovascular Service Line as well as director of electrophysiology. "The ability to diagnose sleep apnea using the same platform using the SANSA device represents an exciting opportunity to manage two diseases that often co-exist, namely atrial fibrillation and sleep apnea."

Dr. Douglas Kirsch, past president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and medical director of Atrium Health Sleep Medicine in Charlotte, N.C., agreed.

"It's excellent news for the sleep community that Huxley's SANSA device has been cleared by the FDA to evaluate obstructive sleep apnea at all severity levels with reliable performance across all skin tones," Kirsch said. "This 8-channel wearable patch, including an EKG sensor, should be easy for patient self-application and improve the experience for diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea."

About Huxley Medical

Huxley Medical, Inc. is a privately held medical technology company that develops products and services to streamline care for any patient anywhere. The company has received funding from the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, the Georgia Research Alliance Venture Fund, Invest Georgia, the Georgia Tech Foundation Research Impact Fund, and Duke Capital Partners to translate its growing technology portfolio. To learn more, email [email protected].

Media Contact:

Chris F. Hallett

Chief Commercial Officer

Huxley Medical

[email protected]

321.439.8577

SOURCE Huxley Medical, Inc.
New itineraries and interactive maps help visitors plan an affordable, "slow travel" fall road trip

HELENA, Mont., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As travelers continue to seek out "slow travel" and plan affordable road trips, fall is the perfect time to explore Montana's open roads, lesser-known small towns and scenic landscapes that avoid the crowds. Seasonal experiences available to visitors this fall include:

Bannack State Park, Courtesy of Visit Montana.

Wildlife viewing and salmon fishing in Missouri River Country : Anglers, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts flock to the wilderness areas in and around Fort Peck Lake to marvel at elk and test their luck catching Chinook salmon, both of which become most prevalent this time of the year.

: Anglers, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts flock to the wilderness areas in and around Fort Peck Lake to marvel at elk and test their luck catching salmon, both of which become most prevalent this time of the year. Celebrate spooky season in Southwest Montana's ghost towns : Explore where gold was first discovered in Montana with a visit to Bannack State Park, Garnet Ghost Town and the many other abandoned mining towns located in Southwest Montana .

Explore where gold was first discovered in with a visit to Bannack State Park, Garnet Ghost Town and the many other abandoned mining towns located in . Spot bison on the move in the Bison Range : Managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), the range is home to 350 bison, in addition to elk, deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, bears and more than 200 species of birds. Visitors can navigate the range by foot on a series of nature trails or by two different wildlife drives.

Managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), the range is home to 350 bison, in addition to elk, deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, bears and more than 200 species of birds. Visitors can navigate the range by foot on a series of nature trails or by two different wildlife drives. Celebrate songwriters at the Inaugural Livingston Songwriter Festival on Oct. 4-5 : Livingston's outdoor vibes are met with a vibrant music and arts scene that will expand this Oct. 4-5 when songwriters from Nashville and Montana take over the city's music venues, coffee shops and bars for the first-ever Livingston Songwriter Festival.

outdoor vibes are met with a vibrant music and arts scene that will expand this when songwriters from and take over the city's music venues, coffee shops and bars for the first-ever Livingston Songwriter Festival. Stargaze in Southeast Montana : Southeast Montana is home to an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, Medicine Rocks State Park, which is one of the darkest places to view stars in the state. Nestled along the rolling prairies of Montana's eastern edge, between Ekalaka and Baker , it's easy to fall in love with this remote, mystical place of "big medicine."

is home to an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, Medicine Rocks State Park, which is one of the darkest places to view stars in the state. Nestled along the rolling prairies of eastern edge, between and , it's easy to fall in love with this remote, mystical place of "big medicine." Experience fall colors in the Bob Marshall Wilderness: Explore the third largest wilderness complex in the lower 48 this fall with a guided adventure, and enjoy golden landscapes paired with cooler weather. Start your trip in the small town of Choteau for convenient access to the wilderness area.

Visit Montana's multi-faceted, integrated campaign, "That's How You Montana," helps visitors include these new experiences in their trip planning while capitalizing on increased demand for "slow travel"  trips that allow for more in-depth exploration of destinations. New detailed road trip itineraries, interactive maps, videos and expanded website content guide travelers to Montana's hidden gems found in less visited parts of the state.

"Montana is home to incredible state parks and rural communities that are ready to welcome you," said Paul Green, director of the Montana Department of Commerce. "We invite visitors to branch out from the main roads and take their time seeing what's special about every corner of our state this fall."

Highlights from Visit Montana's new road trips itineraries include:

3 Days in Central Montana : Guided horseback riding in the Bob Marshall Wilderness or visiting Choteau's Old Trail Museum (part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail)

: Guided horseback riding in the Bob Marshall Wilderness or visiting Old Trail Museum (part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail) 5 Days in Eastern Montana : Exploring Lookout Cave and seeing the largest grouping of preserved pictographs in the state or embarking on a guided boat tour on Fort Peck Lake

: Exploring Lookout Cave and seeing the largest grouping of preserved pictographs in the state or embarking on a guided boat tour on Fort Peck Lake 4 Days in Northwest Montana : Stopping at the Lincoln Ranger District Visitor Center to lay eyes on the taxidermy display of one of Montana's largest grizzly bears or exploring the Kootenai National Forest at the base of the Cabinet Mountains

: Stopping at the Lincoln Ranger District Visitor Center to lay eyes on the taxidermy display of one of largest grizzly bears or exploring the Kootenai National Forest at the base of the Cabinet Mountains 4 Days West to East: Discovering history at the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument or dining at The Jawbone before soaking at the Hot Springs Motel in White Sulphur Springs

Stay updated with all of Montana's latest road trip itineraries, events and travel inspiration by going to VISITMT.com.

About Visit Montana

Visit Montana markets Montana's spectacular unspoiled nature, vibrant and charming small towns, breathtaking experiences, relaxing hospitality and competitive business climate to promote the state as a place to visit and do business. For more information, go to VISITMT.com.

SOURCE Visit Montana
Waxing Franchise Builds World-Class Executive Bench with Seasoned Experts, Propelling Brand to Forefront of the Industry

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Waxxpot , an emerging full-service waxing franchise that provides hair-removal from head to toe for every body, bolsters its leadership team with the appointment of Adam Pennington as Chief Revenue Officer and Jenna Materre as Director of Training and Guest Operations Officer. These appointments come at a pivotal time as Waxxpot is strategically expanding its national reach, recently partnering with Franchise FastLane to surge franchise sales and continue to grow.

The man behind the new team is Michael Abramson, COO and President of Waxxpot, who has carefully curated each addition to align with the refreshed values and long-term goals of the brand. Abramson himself joined the Waxxpot team in January 2024, bringing with him over 10 years of experience in key leadership roles including creating and launching D1 Training's franchise system, and serving as COO and CRO for Xponential Fitness.

"Bringing Michael onto the team was the next step for us in our brand evolution as we laser in on growth," said Daniel Sadd, CEO and Founder of Waxxpot. "We have full confidence in his ability and past experiences to take Waxxpot as an emerging franchise and push it to the forefront of the beauty and wellness industry. The additions of Adam and Jenna take our leadership team to a new level  we have the right people, in the right positions, to achieve our brand goals."

"Working with Michael over the years, I can say when it comes to brand expansion, there's nobody better," said Fritz Lanman, CEO of MindBody and ClassPass. "Franchising at scale requires a very granular understanding of how quickly the industry can change, and there is no one out there more adept at strategic leadership and more equipped to handle that kind of growth than Michael."

Adam Pennington was appointed as Chief Revenue Officer in early July, bringing with him over 17 years of distinguished experience in real estate, construction, and business development. He most recently served as Chief Growth Officer at Xponential, the largest global franchisor of boutique health and wellness brands, including Club Pilates, Pure Barre, StretchLab, and Lindora, among others. During his tenure, he and his team managed all facets of real estate and construction, successfully influencing the opening of more than 1,800 locations nationwide. At Waxxpot, Pennington will spearhead initiatives in new store growth and customer acquisition, leveraging his extensive experience and visionary leadership to drive the company's expansion and strengthen market presence.

Jenna Materre will fill the role of Director of Training and Guest Operations, being officially appointed in June. She brings over five years of experience in the beauty industry, graduating from Paul Mitchell the School of Cosmetology. Materre most recently worked as National Trainer for high-end med-spa brand, OVME. Before that, she supported European Wax Center as one of their earliest Field Operations Trainers, and one of three supporting the brand on a national scale. She's also worked with Tarte Cosmetics and Tata Harper Skincare. As Director of Training and Guest Operations, Materre's focus will be on assisting franchisees in choosing key team members including Wax Specialists/estheticians. She'll be training both the Wax Specialists and front desk support teams on standards and techniques for in-room services and front of house guest relations.

"We are really excited to bring Adam and Jenna onto the Waxxpot team," said Abramson. "There is no doubt that their professional backgrounds and commitment to upholding the brand's values will propel us to the forefront of the waxing industry and aid in our national franchise expansion goals."

The Waxxpot brand was created in 2014, but the original concept dates back to 2003 when founder Daniel Sadd created Salon Lofts. Waxxpot is a natural extension of Salon Lofts, which has expanded with 4,300+ beauty professionals in 200+ locations. Waxxpot recently began franchising, and now has 14 franchised locations and 11 corporate owned locations throughout Colorado, Kentucky, Georgia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

Waxxpot's business model offers competitive advantages in the booming personal care sector, which is expected to grow by 3% in 2024, according to this year's Franchise Economic Outlook report produced by the International Franchise Association and independent researcher FRANdata .

Waxxpot's boutique-style salons feature a proprietary soft wax formula, made in Spain and derived from Beeswax, that doesn't require temperature extremes, allowing for a gentler experience when removing hair from even the most intimate of areas. Waxxpot offers a very high revenue-per-minute business  the brand's Franchise Disclosure Document reports the top 25% of Waxxpot's franchised locations generated an average revenue of $1,104,618.21 in 2023*.

Waxxpot is currently seeking franchise partners nationwide to deliver consistent, smooth results to reveal each client's most confident self.

For more information on Waxxpot's franchising opportunities, please visit https://waxxpot.com/franchise/ .

ABOUT WAXXPOT:

Waxxpot is a franchise opportunity that offers full body waxing services to both men and women in a boutique-style salon. The brand developed its own proprietary two-wax blend that provides an unrivaled aesthetic experience for customers. Under the tagline that "welcomes everybody and every body," Waxxpot's corporate culture is built on a foundation of inclusion and body positivity. Owned and operated by an experienced team of franchise and salon industry veterans, the brand has grown to include 12 locations, with several more territories currently under development. For more information about Waxxpot's franchise opportunity that offers consumers a full line of body waxing options and lash services, please visit https://www.waxxpot.com .

*Based on the Average Revenue & Average % EBITDA Across 12 Locations. This information appears in Item 19 of Waxxpot's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document ("FDD"). Please refer to Waxxpot's FDD for complete information on financial performance. Individual results may differ, there is no assurance that any franchisee will perform as well.

SOURCE Waxxpot
Barrick Gold Corp.s update on its sustainability efforts covers the companys worldwide operations, and the webinar and slide presentation included statistics from Barrick for the Nevada Gold Mines joint ventures community investments.

Mark Bristow, Barricks president and chief executive, said in Fridays sustainability update that with the importance of mines to the economies of many developing countries and the proximity of its activities to people and natural habitats, the mining sector is uniquely placed to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Bristow said Barricks approach to sustainability was based on an integrated and holistic strategy that seeks to deliver outcomes that are achievable, demonstrable and aligned with global priorities.

With our alignment to the SDGs as a central framework to our sustainability reporting, we are better able to address the challenges of alleviating poverty, managing changes to the climate and preserving biodiversity concurrently, because these are inextricably linked, he said in the presentation of the companys 2023 Sustainability Report.

In 2023, Barrick distributed more than $15 billion in economic value, with nearly $12 billion going to host countries. It also realized its 2025 target of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 15% against a 2018 baseline, and achieved an 84% water reuse and recycle rate, Grant Beringer, Barrick sustainability executive, said.

Looking at Nevada, Barrick reported $30 million has been spent on education and early learning. NGM contributed to the construction of childcare and preschool centers in Elko, Spring Creek and Winnemucca, with 182 children in the early learning centers.

The presentation shows NGM has provided $4.6 million to childcare.

Barrick stated the early childhood centers enable parents to work outside the home.

NGM also contributes to programs for older schoolchildren, including the Elko County School Districts program to make schools safer with single-entries, better locks, cameras and more.

NGM supported 96 small businesses in Nevada, provided $10.1 million in business loans and employs 6,860 Nevadans. NGM also helped with 35 projects supported through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at the direction of community representatives, according to the slides.

The sustainability presentation also highlights the NGM Heritage Fund employee donations program. NGM matches 120% of employee donations to qualifying local nonprofits. The report said the Heritage Fund has given a total of about $3 million to 282 nonprofits.

A separate slide details the mining school that NGM operates to teach skills and safe mining.

A section of the sustainability report on building climate resilience said 42 electric vehicles have been introduced into the light vehicle fleet at Carlin, Cortez and Elko; the TS Solar Plant Phase 1 in Nevada was commissioned in December 2023; a climate risk assessment scenario analysis was completed at Nevada Gold Mines; and power purchase agreements have been executed in Nevada and Argentina.

The Barrick presentation said as part of the efforts to replant, remove invasive species and rewild tracks of its ranches and other properties in Nevada, the company participates in the states conservation credit program.

This program is a long-term investment, which provides us with the ability to offset against any potential future impacts our operations or expansion plans may create, the Barrick presentation said. We generally operate on a 2:1 basis  we rehabilitate twice as much land as we may impact.

Toronto-based Barrick operates Nevada Gold Mines in this joint venture with Denver-based Newmont Corp., with Barrick holding 61.5% and Newmont 38.5%.

During the webinar, Bristow outlined Barricks upcoming key sustainability projects, including environmental and social impact assessments for the Lumwana expansion in Zambia and the Reko Diq project in Pakistan, the conclusion of settlement projects, the restart of the Porgera mining operations in Papua New Guinea, the rollout of Barricks biodiversity assessment tool and the consolidation of standards between leading mining frameworks.

The presentation also covered safety efforts companywide, saying, Operational excellence means our people are technical experts in what they do. It also means they know and demonstrate safe behavior.

Looking at the diversity of the workforce, the presentation said in North America, 17% of the workforce is female, while Latin America and Asia Pacific operations have 19% female employees. The Africa and Middle East operations area have the lowest percentage of women working for the company, with 8% of the workforce female.

The same workforce map also shows in North America, 19% of Barricks workforce is unionized; in Latin America and Asia Pacific, 51% is unionized; and in Africa and the Middle East, 75% is unionized.

Our holistic approach to sustainability is entrenched throughout our global operations, and our long-term, scientific and measured strategy is delivering great results on the ground, Bristow said. But last years performance doesnt mean we can rest on our laurels. We need to do even better as we chase continuous improvement.
Reported second-quarter 2024 Net income attributable to limited partners of $369.8 million , generating second-quarter Adjusted EBITDA (1) of $578.1 million .

, generating second-quarter Adjusted EBITDA of . Reported second-quarter 2024 Cash flows provided by operating activities of $631.4 million , generating second-quarter Free cash flow (1) of $424.8 million .

, generating second-quarter Free cash flow of . Announced a second-quarter Base Distribution of $0.875 per unit, or $3.50 per unit on an annualized basis, which is in-line with the prior-quarter's Base Distribution.

HOUSTON, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Western Midstream Partners, LP (NYSE: WES) ("WES" or the "Partnership") announced second-quarter 2024 financial and operating results. Net income (loss) attributable to limited partners for the second quarter of 2024 totaled $369.8 million, or $0.97 per common unit (diluted), with second-quarter 2024 Adjusted EBITDA(1) totaling $578.1 million. Second-quarter 2024 Cash flows provided by operating activities totaled $631.4 million, and second-quarter 2024 Free cash flow(1) totaled $424.8 million.

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS

Gathered record natural-gas throughput in the Delaware and DJ Basins of 1.9 Bcf/d and 1.5 Bcf/d, respectively, representing 6-percent sequential-quarter increases from both basins.

and DJ Basins of 1.9 Bcf/d and 1.5 Bcf/d, respectively, representing 6-percent sequential-quarter increases from both basins. Gathered record total operated crude-oil and NGLs throughput of 396 MBbls/d, representing a 6-percent sequential-quarter increase.

Gathered record Delaware Basin crude-oil and NGLs throughput of 241 MBbls/d, representing a 7-percent sequential-quarter increase.

Basin crude-oil and NGLs throughput of 241 MBbls/d, representing a 7-percent sequential-quarter increase. Achieved sequential-quarter throughput growth for crude-oil and NGLs in the DJ Basin of 5-percent.

Executed multiple commercial agreements with new and existing third-party customers for natural-gas and produced-water gathering in the Delaware Basin.

Basin. Executed an amendment to DCP Midstream's, now Phillips 66's ("P66"), natural-gas processing agreement in the DJ Basin to extend the original firm-processing capacity of 175 MMcf/d from 2027 to 2029. Additionally, this multi-year amendment provides P66 with an incremental 200 MMcf/d of firm-processing capacity, primarily supported by minimum-volume commitments, starting in 2026.

Subsequent to quarter-end, executed agreements with various customers supporting The Williams Companies' Mountain West Pipeline expansion to provide up to 110 MMcf/d of natural-gas firm-processing capacity at our Chipeta facility in the Uinta Basin.

Subsequent to quarter-end, executed a multi-year natural-gas processing agreement with Kinder Morgan , Inc. (" Kinder Morgan ") in support of its Altamont Green River Pipeline project providing for up to 150 MMcf/d of firm-processing capacity at our Chipeta processing facility in the Uinta Basin.

, Inc. (" ") in support of its Altamont Green River Pipeline project providing for up to 150 MMcf/d of firm-processing capacity at our Chipeta processing facility in the Uinta Basin. As previously announced, closed the sale of the Marcellus Interest gathering system early in the second-quarter.

As previously announced, repurchased $134.9 million of senior notes in the open market during the second quarter, bringing the year-to-date total to $150.0 million at an average of 96% of par.

of senior notes in the open market during the second quarter, bringing the year-to-date total to at an average of 96% of par. Reduced total debt by $762.6 million since year-end 2023 with asset sale proceeds, which helped achieve our long-term net leverage threshold of 3.0x earlier than expected.

On August 14, 2024, WES will pay its second-quarter 2024 per-unit Base Distribution of $0.875, which is in-line with the prior quarter's Base Distribution. Second-quarter 2024 Free cash flow(1) after distributions totaled $84.0 million. Second-quarter 2024 capital expenditures(2) totaled $207.5 million.

Second-quarter 2024 natural-gas throughput(3) averaged 5.0 Bcf/d, flat quarter-over-quarter due to strong throughput growth in our core basins offset by the sale of the Marcellus assets early in the second-quarter. Second-quarter 2024 operated throughput from natural-gas assets averaged 4.6 Bcf/d, representing a 3-percent sequential-quarter increase. Second-quarter 2024 throughput for crude-oil and NGLs assets(3) averaged 515 MBbls/d, representing a 9-percent sequential-quarter decrease as a result of the equity investments asset sales which closed throughout the first quarter. Second-quarter 2024 operated throughput from crude-oil and NGLs assets averaged 396 MBbls/d, representing a 6-percent sequential-quarter increase. Second-quarter 2024 throughput for produced-water assets(3) averaged 1,080 MBbls/d, representing a 4-percent sequential-quarter decrease.

"The second quarter was another strong quarter operationally for WES, with robust system operability contributing to operated natural-gas and crude-oil and NGLs throughput growth," said Michael Ure, President and Chief Executive Officer. "As a result, we experienced several throughput records during the quarter including record throughput for natural-gas in both the Delaware and DJ Basins, record total operated crude-oil and NGLs throughput, and record Delaware Basin crude-oil and NGLs throughput. Additionally, we experienced sequential-quarter throughput growth for both natural-gas and crude-oil and NGLs from our Powder River Basin assets of 5-percent and 9-percent, respectively. When taken together, this continued growth gives us confidence in our increased throughput expectations for all products for the year."

"As expected, second-quarter Adjusted EBITDA declined 5-percent sequentially due to lower distributions from equity investments as a result of the previously announced asset divestitures, higher seasonally-driven operation and maintenance expense, and more normalized property and other taxes. We anticipate throughput to continue to grow throughout the remainder of the year, which will drive 2024 Adjusted EBITDA and Free cash flow towards the high end of our previously disclosed guidance ranges."

"During the second quarter, our commercial teams successfully executed numerous agreements with both new and existing customers in our most active basins. In the Delaware Basin, we executed several third-party natural-gas and produced-water gathering agreements, which will begin to benefit WES in the second half of 2024, and to a larger extent, in 2025. Additionally, we executed numerous agreements in both the DJ and Uinta Basins. We are excited to see a return to growth in these basins, and in fact, if these agreements are fully utilized, we could potentially see our plants reach full utilization starting in 2026. In the Powder River Basin, we continue to experience increased throughput from existing customers on our system as we fully integrate the Meritage assets, and customers begin to allocate incremental capital to the basin."

"Focusing on our capital-return framework, since our January 2020 bond offering, we have reduced our senior notes on a net basis by $942.6 million, paid out approximately $3.5 billion to unitholders through Base and Enhanced Distributions, and bought back over $1.1 billion of our common units, or 15-percent of the unaffected unit count. Going forward, we will continue to prudently allocate capital to efficiently grow our business through expansion-oriented capital spending and accretive M&A. Finally, we expect to use the Base Distribution, and our Enhanced Distribution framework, as the primary tools for returning incremental capital to unitholders. We believe our strong operating model, prudent capital allocation principles, and our transparent capital-return framework will further position WES as a leader within the midstream space," concluded Mr. Ure.

CONFERENCE CALL TOMORROW AT 1:00 P.M. CT

WES will host a conference call on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Central Time (2:00 p.m. Eastern Time) to discuss its second-quarter 2024 results. To access the live audio webcast of the conference call, please visit the investor relations section of the Partnership's website at www.westernmidstream.com. A small number of phone lines are available for analysts; individuals should dial 800-836-8184 (Domestic) or 646-357-8785 (International) ten to fifteen minutes before the scheduled conference call time. A replay of the live audio webcast can be accessed on the Partnership's website at www.westernmidstream.com for one year after the call.

For additional details on WES's financial and operational performance, please refer to the earnings slides and updated investor presentation available at www.westernmidstream.com.

AUGUST CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION

Members of the WES management and investor relations teams will participate in the Citi One-on-One Midstream / Energy Infrastructure Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada on August 13  14, 2024. We will provide information on our conference participation for the remainder of the third quarter over the coming weeks.

ABOUT WESTERN MIDSTREAM

Western Midstream Partners, LP ("WES") is a master limited partnership formed to develop, acquire, own, and operate midstream assets. With midstream assets located in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming, WES is engaged in the business of gathering, compressing, treating, processing, and transporting natural gas; gathering, stabilizing, and transporting condensate, natural-gas liquids, and crude oil; and gathering and disposing of produced water for its customers. In its capacity as a natural-gas processor, WES also buys and sells natural gas, natural-gas liquids, and condensate on behalf of itself and its customers under certain gas processing contracts. A substantial majority of WES's cash flows are protected from direct exposure to commodity price volatility through fee-based contracts.

For more information about WES, please visit www.westernmidstream.com.

This news release contains forward-looking statements. WES's management believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. No assurance, however, can be given that such expectations will prove correct. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the projections, anticipated results, or other expectations expressed in this news release. These factors include our ability to meet financial guidance or distribution expectations; our ability to safely and efficiently operate WES's assets; the supply of, demand for, and price of oil, natural gas, NGLs, and related products or services; our ability to meet projected in-service dates for capital-growth projects; construction costs or capital expenditures exceeding estimated or budgeted costs or expenditures; and the other factors described in the "Risk Factors" section of WES's most-recent Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and other public filings and press releases. WES undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.

______________________________________________________________ (1) Please see the definitions of the Partnership's non-GAAP measures at the end of this release and reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP measures. (2) Accrual-based, includes equity investments, excludes capitalized interest, and excludes capital expenditures associated with the 25% third-party interest in Chipeta. (3) Represents total throughput attributable to WES, which excludes (i) the 2.0% limited partner interest in WES Operating owned by an Occidental subsidiary and (ii) for natural-gas throughput, the 25% third-party interest in Chipeta, which collectively represent WES's noncontrolling interests.

WESTERN MIDSTREAM CONTACTS

Daniel Jenkins

Director, Investor Relations

[email protected]

866.512.3523

Rhianna Disch

Manager, Investor Relations

[email protected]

866.512.3523

Western Midstream Partners, LP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)





Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30, thousands except per-unit amounts

2024

2023

2024

2023 Revenues and other















Service revenues  fee based

$ 793,785

$ 661,506

$ 1,575,047

$ 1,309,373 Service revenues  product based

61,466

46,956

128,206

93,766 Product sales

50,111

29,659

89,403

68,684 Other

267

152

702

432 Total revenues and other

905,629

738,273

1,793,358

1,472,255 Equity income, net  related parties

27,431

42,324

60,250

81,345 Operating expenses















Cost of product

54,010

44,746

100,089

96,205 Operation and maintenance

223,319

183,431

418,258

357,670 General and administrative

62,933

53,405

130,772

104,522 Property and other taxes

17,429

18,547

31,349

25,378 Depreciation and amortization

163,432

143,492

321,423

288,118 Long-lived asset and other impairments

1,530

234

1,553

52,635 Total operating expenses

522,653

443,855

1,003,444

924,528 Gain (loss) on divestiture and other, net

59,342

(70)

298,959

(2,188) Operating income (loss)

469,749

336,672

1,149,123

626,884 Interest expense

(90,522)

(86,182)

(185,028)

(167,852) Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt

4,879

6,813

5,403

6,813 Other income (expense), net

4,213

2,872

6,559

4,087 Income (loss) before income taxes

388,319

260,175

976,057

469,932 Income tax expense (benefit)

755

659

2,277

2,075 Net income (loss)

387,564

259,516

973,780

467,857 Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

8,916

6,595

22,302

11,291 Net income (loss) attributable to Western Midstream Partners, LP

$ 378,648

$ 252,921

$ 951,478

$ 456,566 Limited partners' interest in net income (loss):















Net income (loss) attributable to Western Midstream Partners, LP

$ 378,648

$ 252,921

$ 951,478

$ 456,566 General partner interest in net (income) loss

(8,807)

(5,821)

(22,137)

(10,507) Limited partners' interest in net income (loss)

$ 369,841

$ 247,100

$ 929,341

$ 446,059 Net income (loss) per common unit  basic

$ 0.97

$ 0.64

$ 2.44

$ 1.16 Net income (loss) per common unit  diluted

$ 0.97

$ 0.64

$ 2.43

$ 1.16 Weighted-average common units outstanding  basic

380,491

384,614

380,258

384,542 Weighted-average common units outstanding  diluted

382,253

385,510

381,933

385,665

Western Midstream Partners, LP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)

thousands except number of units

June 30, 2024

December 31, 2023 Total current assets

$ 1,068,290

$ 992,410 Net property, plant, and equipment

9,644,413

9,655,016 Other assets

1,467,798

1,824,181 Total assets

$ 12,180,501

$ 12,471,607 Total current liabilities

$ 634,120

$ 1,304,056 Long-term debt

7,138,092

7,283,556 Asset retirement obligations

371,501

359,185 Other liabilities

612,779

495,680 Total liabilities

8,756,492

9,442,477 Equity and partners' capital







Common units (380,491,374 and 379,519,983 units issued and outstanding at June 30, 2024,

and December 31, 2023, respectively)

3,271,033

2,894,231 General partner units (9,060,641 units issued and outstanding at June 30, 2024, and

December 31, 2023)

12,192

3,193 Noncontrolling interests

140,784

131,706 Total liabilities, equity, and partners' capital

$ 12,180,501

$ 12,471,607

Western Midstream Partners, LP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)



Six Months Ended June 30, thousands

2024

2023 Cash flows from operating activities







Net income (loss)

$ 973,780

$ 467,857 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities and

changes in assets and liabilities:







Depreciation and amortization

321,423

288,118 Long-lived asset and other impairments

1,553

52,635 (Gain) loss on divestiture and other, net

(298,959)

2,188 (Gain) loss on early extinguishment of debt

(5,403)

(6,813) Change in other items, net

38,732

(10,738) Net cash provided by operating activities

$ 1,031,126

$ 793,247 Cash flows from investing activities







Capital expenditures

$ (405,653)

$ (334,570) Acquisitions from third parties

(443)

 Contributions to equity investments - related parties



(132) Distributions from equity investments in excess of cumulative earnings  related parties

24,303

23,179 Proceeds from the sale of assets to third parties

788,941

 (Increase) decrease in materials and supplies inventory and other

(25,294)

(19,145) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

$ 381,854

$ (330,668) Cash flows from financing activities







Borrowings, net of debt issuance costs

$ (1,206)

$ 956,225 Repayments of debt

(143,852)

(918,332) Commercial paper borrowings (repayments), net

(610,312)

 Increase (decrease) in outstanding checks

14,172

(2,951) Distributions to Partnership unitholders

(564,296)

(533,556) Distributions to Chipeta noncontrolling interest owner

(1,678)

(3,470) Distributions to noncontrolling interest owner of WES Operating

(11,546)

(11,131) Unit repurchases



(7,102) Other

(22,930)

(14,965) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

$ (1,341,648)

$ (535,282) Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

$ 71,332

$ (72,703) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

272,787

286,656 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$ 344,119

$ 213,953

Western Midstream Partners, LP

RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP MEASURES

WES defines Adjusted gross margin attributable to Western Midstream Partners, LP ("Adjusted gross margin") as total revenues and other (less reimbursements for electricity-related expenses recorded as revenue), less cost of product, plus distributions from equity investments, and excluding the noncontrolling interest owners' proportionate share of revenues and cost of product.

WES defines Adjusted EBITDA attributable to Western Midstream Partners, LP ("Adjusted EBITDA") as net income (loss), plus (i) distributions from equity investments, (ii) non-cash equity-based compensation expense, (iii) interest expense, (iv) income tax expense, (v) depreciation and amortization, (vi) impairments, and (vii) other expense (including lower of cost or market inventory adjustments recorded in cost of product), less (i) gain (loss) on divestiture and other, net, (ii) gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt, (iii) income from equity investments, (iv) interest income, (v) income tax benefit, (vi) other income, and (vii) the noncontrolling interest owners' proportionate share of revenues and expenses.

WES defines Free cash flow as net cash provided by operating activities less total capital expenditures and contributions to equity investments, plus distributions from equity investments in excess of cumulative earnings.

Below are reconciliations of (i) gross margin (GAAP) to Adjusted gross margin (non-GAAP), (ii) net income (loss) (GAAP) and net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) to Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP), and (iii) net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) to Free cash flow (non-GAAP), as required under Regulation G of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Management believes that Adjusted gross margin, Adjusted EBITDA, and Free cash flow are widely accepted financial indicators of WES's financial performance compared to other publicly traded partnerships and are useful in assessing WES's ability to incur and service debt, fund capital expenditures, and make distributions. Adjusted gross margin, Adjusted EBITDA, and Free cash flow as defined by WES, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Therefore, WES's Adjusted gross margin, Adjusted EBITDA, and Free cash flow should be considered in conjunction with net income (loss) attributable to Western Midstream Partners, LP and other applicable performance measures, such as gross margin or cash flows provided by operating activities.

Western Midstream Partners, LP RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP MEASURES (CONTINUED) (Unaudited) Adjusted Gross Margin



Three Months Ended thousands

June 30, 2024

March 31, 2024 Reconciliation of Gross margin to Adjusted gross margin







Total revenues and other

$ 905,629

$ 887,729 Less:







Cost of product

54,010

46,079 Depreciation and amortization

163,432

157,991 Gross margin

688,187

683,659 Add:







Distributions from equity investments

32,970

48,337 Depreciation and amortization

163,432

157,991 Less:







Reimbursed electricity-related charges recorded as revenues

28,998

24,695 Adjusted gross margin attributable to noncontrolling interests (1)

19,741

20,240 Adjusted gross margin

$ 835,850

$ 845,052









Gross margin







Gross margin for natural-gas assets (2)

$ 516,253

$ 511,584 Gross margin for crude-oil and NGLs assets (2)

96,786

93,578 Gross margin for produced-water assets (2)

82,346

85,041 Adjusted gross margin







Adjusted gross margin for natural-gas assets

$ 601,443

$ 597,163 Adjusted gross margin for crude-oil and NGLs assets

138,894

150,269 Adjusted gross margin for produced-water assets

95,513

97,620





(1) Includes (i) the 25% third-party interest in Chipeta and (ii) the 2.0% limited partner interest in WES Operating owned by an Occidental subsidiary, which collectively represent WES's noncontrolling interests. (2) Excludes corporate-level depreciation and amortization.

Western Midstream Partners, LP RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP MEASURES (CONTINUED) (Unaudited) Adjusted EBITDA



Three Months Ended thousands

June 30, 2024

March 31, 2024 Reconciliation of Net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA







Net income (loss)

$ 387,564

$ 586,216 Add:







Distributions from equity investments

32,970

48,337 Non-cash equity-based compensation expense

10,391

9,423 Interest expense

90,522

94,506 Income tax expense

755

1,522 Depreciation and amortization

163,432

157,991 Impairments

1,530

23 Other expense

37

112 Less:







Gain (loss) on divestiture and other, net

59,342

239,617 Gain (loss) on early extinguishment of debt

4,879

524 Equity income, net  related parties

27,431

32,819 Other income

4,213

2,346 Adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests (1)

13,276

14,415 Adjusted EBITDA

$ 578,060

$ 608,409 Reconciliation of Net cash provided by operating activities to Adjusted EBITDA







Net cash provided by operating activities

$ 631,418

$ 399,708 Interest (income) expense, net

90,522

94,506 Accretion and amortization of long-term obligations, net

(2,473)

(2,190) Current income tax expense (benefit)

726

1,292 Other (income) expense, net

(4,213)

(2,346) Distributions from equity investments in excess of cumulative earnings  related parties

5,270

19,033 Changes in assets and liabilities:







Accounts receivable, net

(28,436)

53,714 Accounts and imbalance payables and accrued liabilities, net

(13,338)

100,383 Other items, net

(88,140)

(41,276) Adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests (1)

(13,276)

(14,415) Adjusted EBITDA

$ 578,060

$ 608,409 Cash flow information







Net cash provided by operating activities

$ 631,418

$ 399,708 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

(14,995)

396,849 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

(567,550)

(774,098)





(1) Includes (i) the 25% third-party interest in Chipeta and (ii) the 2.0% limited partner interest in WES Operating owned by an Occidental subsidiary, which collectively represent WES's noncontrolling interests.

Western Midstream Partners, LP RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP MEASURES (CONTINUED) (Unaudited) Free Cash Flow



Three Months Ended thousands

June 30, 2024

March 31, 2024 Reconciliation of Net cash provided by operating activities to Free cash flow







Net cash provided by operating activities

$ 631,418

$ 399,708 Less:







Capital expenditures

211,864

193,789 Add:







Distributions from equity investments in excess of cumulative earnings  related parties

5,270

19,033 Free cash flow

$ 424,824

$ 224,952 Cash flow information







Net cash provided by operating activities

$ 631,418

$ 399,708 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

(14,995)

396,849 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

(567,550)

(774,098)

Western Midstream Partners, LP OPERATING STATISTICS (Unaudited)





Three Months Ended



June 30, 2024

March 31, 2024

Inc/ (Dec) Throughput for natural-gas assets (MMcf/d)











Gathering, treating, and transportation

438

606

(28) % Processing

4,209

4,050

4 % Equity investments (1)

508

508

 % Total throughput

5,155

5,164

 % Throughput attributable to noncontrolling interests (2)

167

174

(4) % Total throughput attributable to WES for natural-gas assets

4,988

4,990

 % Throughput for crude-oil and NGLs assets (MBbls/d)











Gathering, treating, and transportation

396

374

6 % Equity investments (1)

130

202

(36) % Total throughput

526

576

(9) % Throughput attributable to noncontrolling interests (2)

11

11

 % Total throughput attributable to WES for crude-oil and NGLs assets

515

565

(9) % Throughput for produced-water assets (MBbls/d)











Gathering and disposal

1,102

1,149

(4) % Throughput attributable to noncontrolling interests (2)

22

23

(4) % Total throughput attributable to WES for produced-water assets

1,080

1,126

(4) % Per-Mcf Gross margin for natural-gas assets (3)

$ 1.10

$ 1.09

1 % Per-Bbl Gross margin for crude-oil and NGLs assets (3)

2.02

1.78

13 % Per-Bbl Gross margin for produced-water assets (3)

0.82

0.81

1 %













Per-Mcf Adjusted gross margin for natural-gas assets (4)

$ 1.33

$ 1.32

1 % Per-Bbl Adjusted gross margin for crude-oil and NGLs assets (4)

2.96

2.92

1 % Per-Bbl Adjusted gross margin for produced-water assets (4)

0.97

0.95

2 %





(1) Represents our share of average throughput for investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting. (2) Includes (i) the 2.0% limited partner interest in WES Operating owned by an Occidental subsidiary and (ii) for natural-gas assets, the 25% third-party interest in Chipeta, which collectively represent WES's noncontrolling interests. (3) Average for period. Calculated as Gross margin for natural-gas assets, crude-oil and NGLs assets, or produced-water assets, divided by the respective total throughput (MMcf or MBbls) for natural-gas assets, crude-oil and NGLs assets, or produced-water assets. (4) Average for period. Calculated as Adjusted gross margin for natural-gas assets, crude-oil and NGLs assets, or produced-water assets, divided by the respective total throughput (MMcf or MBbls) attributable to WES for natural-gas assets, crude-oil and NGLs assets, or produced-water assets.

Western Midstream Partners, LP OPERATING STATISTICS (CONTINUED) (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended



June 30, 2024

March 31, 2024

Inc/ (Dec) Throughput for natural-gas assets (MMcf/d) Operated











Delaware Basin

1,858

1,761

6 % DJ Basin

1,452

1,372

6 % Powder River Basin

426

406

5 % Other

898

978

(8) % Total operated throughput for natural-gas assets

4,634

4,517

3 % Non-operated











Equity investments

508

508

 % Other

13

139

(91) % Total non-operated throughput for natural-gas assets

521

647

(19) % Total throughput for natural-gas assets

5,155

5,164

 % Throughput for crude-oil and NGLs assets (MBbls/d) Operated











Delaware Basin

241

225

7 % DJ Basin

91

87

5 % Powder River Basin

25

23

9 % Other

39

39

 % Total operated throughput for crude-oil and NGLs assets

396

374

6 % Non-operated











Equity investments

130

202

(36) % Total non-operated throughput for crude-oil and NGLs assets

130

202

(36) % Total throughput for crude-oil and NGLs assets

526

576

(9) % Throughput for produced-water assets (MBbls/d) Operated











Delaware Basin

1,102

1,149

(4) % Total operated throughput for produced-water assets

1,102

1,149

(4) %

SOURCE Western Midstream Partners, LP
MUSCAT, Oman, Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Zerova Technologies is pleased to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Muscat Gas, aimed at accelerating the growth and development of electric vehicles (EVs) in the Sultanate of Oman. This strategic collaboration underscores Muscat Gas's ambition to become the leading provider of EV chargers in the region.

Zerova Technologies is pleased to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Muscat Gas, aimed at accelerating the growth and development of electric vehicles (EVs) in the Sultanate of Oman.

Discussions between Zerova Technologies and Muscat Gas began six months ago. After a series of comprehensive negotiations and detailed analyses, both parties have now formally entered into an agreement that promises to transform the EV infrastructure landscape in Oman.

"We are thrilled to partner with Muscat Gas in this transformative venture," said Sales VP at Zerova Technologies Europe B.V. "Our combined expertise and shared vision for a sustainable future make this collaboration a natural fit. We look forward to supporting Muscat Gas in their mission to lead the EV charging market and contribute to the Sultanate's green energy goals."

Muscat Gas, known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence, is poised to make significant strides in the EV sector. This partnership will leverage Zerova Technologies' advanced EV charging solutions and Muscat Gas's extensive local expertise to establish a robust and reliable network of EV chargers across Oman.

This partnership marks a significant milestone in Oman's journey towards sustainable transportation and cleaner energy. Together, Zerova Technologies and Muscat Gas are committed to fostering an environment where electric vehicles can thrive, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

About Muscat Gas:

Muscat Gas Company SAOG was established in 1983 in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, to trade in industrial gases and LPG. Due to its belief in the necessity of maintaining a clean and green environment, the company has concluded many agreements and partnerships over the past decade with major international companies focused on reducing carbon dioxide emissions. In 2024, this commitment was further solidified through a strategic partnership with Zerova Technologies Company, aiming to establish the first electric vehicle charger assembly line in the Sultanate of Oman.

Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this transformative journey with Muscat Gas, paving the way for a greener future in Oman and beyond.

About Zerova Technologies

Zerova Technologies designs and manufactures a complete line of EV charging solutions that power brands globally. Whether white-label or collaborative design partnerships, the company works closely with customers to ensure success and align with their global channel strategies. With manufacturing facilities strategically located in Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Japan, EMEA, and the United States, Zerova is well- equipped to meet the diverse needs of its partners.

For more information, visit www.zerovatech.com

SOURCE ZEROVA Technologies
With a Harmful Algae Bloom, or HAB, watch on at both the South Fork and Wild Horse reservoirs, this might be a good time to learn a bit about algae. While they may appear to be a nuisance, algae are a necessary and beneficial part of a healthy aquatic ecosystem. They form the food and energy basis for nearly all other aquatic organisms in the water column.

Algae are primary producers, known as autotrophs, using photosynthesis to convert water and carbon dioxide to sugar (food) in the presence of sunlight. A byproduct of photosynthesis is oxygen, which contributes to the survival of fish and other organisms that live in lakes. Algae also form the base of the food chain that all lake organisms depend upon, either directly or indirectly.

Besides sunlight and temperature, the biggest contributors to algae growth are phosphorus and nitrogen entering the system through waste from range activities, fertilizers, detergents and leach products from septic systems. The best way to limit algae growth is to limit the amount of these nutrients that enter the lake.

The algae load in area reservoirs is a seasonal mild to moderate load and is not unusual for this time of year. If above average temperatures and very sunny days continue into September, there is the possibility of excessive loading in these waters.

If that happens there is the possibility of harmful effects as the excessive algae load dies off. Decaying algae consumes oxygen and if a heavy algae load decays all at once, the oxygen levels in the water may plummet. This can cause a fish die-off, as there isnt enough oxygen to support them, though the last fish die-off due to decomposing algae in Elko County was in 2007. Decaying algae can also have a putrid smell if washed ashore.

HABs are the rapid growth of algae or cyanobacteria that can cause harm to people, animals or the local ecology. Harmful algal or cyanobacteria can look like foam, scum, paint or mats on the surface of the water and can be different colors. Think blue-green algae which are not algae at all, but types of microscopic cyanobacteria that have formed dense colonies that show up as a bloom. This is currently not the algae that are being seen at Wild Horse or South Fork reservoirs.

The bottom line is that as long as algae do not reach nuisance levels, they play an important and essential role in a healthy aquatic ecosystem.

Go to www.ndow.org for more information.

Cool Canyon Evenings

The Friends of the Ruby Mountains hosts Cool Canyon Evenings every Friday at 6 p.m. at the Powerhouse Picnic Area at the mouth of Lamoille Canyon.

The presentation this week is Gold Rush of 1849, presented by the California Trails Center.

Participants will get to try their hand at gold panning. It is a great kids event. The gate opens at 5 p.m. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy during the presentation. There will also be a campfire and Smores for those who attend.

Wild Horse

Surface water temperatures are in the high 70s and the fish have moved deeper in the water column. The algae load is heavy, but only slightly above normal for this time of year. With the predominantly westerly winds much of the algae is along the eastern shore, where most people recreate. Once in a boat and in the deeper water it lessens. Shore anglers will also find less algae in the canyon by the dam where the water is cooler.

Trout fishing has been very good for boaters and fair to good for those shore anglers who got out early and fished deeper water. Especially in the canyon leading to the dam. Trout up to 5 pounds continue to be caught by boaters trolling. Early mornings, sunup to around 9 a.m. continues to be the most productive time for shore anglers.

Bass fishing is good and anglers may keep one black bass 15 inches or longer. Look for bass in places where structure on the shore continues into the water. For bass, anglers should be using soft plastic baits in dark or contrasting colors with some sparkle. Drop shotting for bass has been productive. Crankbaits in perch colors are also working.

For trout small spinners, rooster tails or panther Martins should work for spin fishermen. Small minnow imitations in perch or chub colors may also catch a few trout. Boaters have had good luck trolling flashers tipped with worms or trailing small lures. Worms or PowerBait floated off the bottom using a slip sinker is recommended for bait anglers early in the morning. Fly rodders have had some success fishing chironomids, damselfly nymphs or balanced leeches fished just off the bottom under an indicator. They have also caught a few trout stripping or trolling wooly buggers and leeches from a float tube. Fishing for catfish and wipers has been fair to good.

Fishing for perch has been fair to good for numbers, but poor for size with fish averaging 4 to 6 inches, as the perch population is still recovering from a 2022 die-off.

South Fork Reservoir

The lake level is up and fishing has been fair to good for boaters and fair for shore anglers, though some very nice fish are still being caught from shore at the north end of the lake first thing in them morning. Surface water temperatures are in the high 70s, pushing 80 degrees, and the best time for trout for shore anglers is in the early morning hours.

The algae load and weed growth is heavy, though not much more than usual for this time of year.

The best trout fishing is in the deeper water by the dam where the water is cooler. Shore anglers will have the best luck on the west and east sides of the lake at the north end by the dam where the water gets deep fast. Bass fishing is good especially in shallow coves near weed beds and on structure. For bass, anglers should be using soft plastic baits in dark or contrasting colors with some sparkle in shallow waters near the weeds. Crank baits are also working. Fish structure for bass. Anglers may keep one black bass 15 inches or longer.

With the warming water, both bottom fishing for trout is the way to go for shore anglers. Fly fishing has been fair using chironomid patterns in a variety of colors with red or black/red with a white bead seeming to work best. Fish them deep. Damselflies are still hatching so damselfly nymphs should work at first light. Balanced leeches in black/red, wine or olive fished below an indicator have also been catching a few fish. Wooly buggers sized 6 to 10 and leech patterns sized 10 to 14 in the black/red, black/blue, wine and dark red stripped on a fast sinking line are also producing some fish in the morning.

Fishing for catfish has been good, with one angler catching a 20 pounder this month. No recent report on wipers being caught.

Jiggs/Zunino Reservoir

Surface water temperatures are in the high 70s and fishing is just fair. For best results fishing the middle of the lake from a float tube or small boat in the morning is where it is at.

Use the same presentations and techniques as at South Fork Reservoir.

Approximately 825 9-inch trout were stocked here the first week of May and 500 largemouth bass were stocked the end of May. NDOW is asking anglers to return all bluegill and bass back into the water this summer to help establish those fisheries.

Wilson Reservoir

Fishing for both bass and trout has been good. Like other reservoirs, trout have moved into deeper water due to high surface water temperatures. The canyon by the dam is your best bet then and boaters are having good success there. Bass fishing has been excellent in the vegetation along the shorelines. Surface water temperatures are in the high 70s. The same techniques and presentations that work at South Fork work here. Bass fishing has been good especially along the willows using soft plastic jigs and crankbaits.

Approximately 10,000 trout were stocked in mid-May.

Ruby Lake NWR

The gas motor opener was busy at the Refuge last week and fishing was very good for bass. Bass fishing continues to be good from Brown Dike and in the south marsh with the hot weather. Like recent years, anglers were catching about one keeper for every 15 bass caught. Minimum keeper size for bass is 10 inches.

Boaters also reported some nice trout being caught on spring heads in the deeper areas of the south marsh. Vegetation at the Narciss Boat Launch is thick and only shallow draft boats such as canoes and kayaks are recommended there. Larger watercraft with gas motors should launch at the main boat ramp. Starting Aug. 1, boats with a 10 hp or smaller motor are allowed on the south marsh.

Bass anglers should use soft plastic baits rigged weedless. Dark colors with some sparkle such as motor oil, guacamole, olive or blue are good colors to use. Cast right up to the edges of the tules and retrieve your presentation in an erratic fashion. Top water action early or late in the day when the water is still has been productive. Fishing in the collection ditch has been good for trout averaging 14 to 20 inches, with a few fish over 20 inches. Water clarity is good and water levels continue to be very good.

Dry flies are working and hoppers are out. Hopper patterns, elk hair caddis and damselfly dries are all catching fish. Other dry flies such as pale morning duns, Adams, Griffiths gnats and ant patterns are working. In deeper parts of the ditch, hopper dropper combinations are the way to go.

Fly anglers have had luck stripping wooly buggers, leeches or small streamers in black or olive using short slow strips. Spin fishermen should be using small brightly colored spinners. Spin fishermen should be using spinners, Kastmasters, panther Martins and other small lures.

It is artificial presentations only in the collection ditch, which includes the pond behind the hatchery all the way to Brown Dike. Wading is not allowed the entire length of the collection ditch.

Jakes Creek/Boies Reservoir

Aquatic vegetation growth is making shore fishing difficult, so float tubes or small watercraft are the way to go. Fishing has been fair to good for 13- to 18-inch trout. Either dark or flashy spinners or small plastic baits fished with varying retrieves should work.

Worms or PowerBait fished about 7 to 7 feet under a bobber is best for bait anglers. For fly rodders, wooly buggers and leech patterns on a sink tip or intermediate sinking line have been working. The usual assortment of nymph and chironomid patterns are also producing fish. Damselfly nymphs are active.

Bass fishing has been good for 10- to 12-inch bass using soft plastic baits and small crankbaits.

Cold Creek Reservoir

This small reservoir is at 85% of capacity and rainbow trout and tiger trout are being caught in the 9- to 12-inch range first thing in the morning. Anglers will do well fishing for trout using a variety of spinners, nightcrawlers, and PowerBait.

Fly fishers having luck using damselfly nymphs, midge patterns, leeches or woolly buggers. With good water levels and warmer weather, largemouth bass are cruising the shallows, but are still small averaging 4 to 8 inches. There is a limited black bass fishery and anglers are encouraged to catch and release these bass to help improve the fishery there.

Cave Lake

Cave Lake is lowered to minimum pool and unfishable. Cave Lake is closed to fishing due to shorelines that are very soft and dangerous due to the complete saturation of the soil. Dam construction is fully underway and is expected to be completed in September. Fish stocking will resume once the construction is completed and the lake starts to fill. That will hopefully be next spring. For more information on the Cave Lake project, check out the June 21 article in the Elko Daily Free press by Lydia Snow.

Comins Lake

Surface water temperatures are in the 70s and fishing for trout has been fair to good, but slowing with the warmer temperatures. Rainbow trout are being caught by anglers ranging from 16 to 22 inches early in the morning from shore. Nightcrawlers are producing trout for anglers, as well as spinners and small lures.

Fly fishermen should be using leeches, woolly buggers, scud patterns and midge patterns. Black bass fishing has been good with the warmer water temperatures. Soft plastic lures and crankbaits have been working for bass.

There is a limited Bluegill fishery at Comins Lake and anglers are encouraged to release Bluegill catch so that their population can become better established.

Pike have moved into deeper water. Anglers pursuing northern pike will do well on hard and soft plastic baits, as well as flashy spoons, bucktail streamers and Clouser Minnows. Anglers continue to catch a few northern pike ranging from 18 inches to 30-plus inches.

Please note that NDOW has placed radio tags in several Northern Pike. These pike will have an orange floy tag near their dorsal fin and a small antenna (~ 7 inches long) coming from their stomach. Please return these fish to the water for research purposes. Please do not return pike without the tags back to the lake.

Illipah

Then water level is still good, though starting to draw down for seasonal irrigation, and surface water temperatures are in the low 70s. Anglers have been catching a mixed bag of rainbow trout and a few brown trout early in the morning or late in the evening. With warmer temperatures, anglers should avoid fishing in the middle of the day. Anglers should do well using nightcrawlers, PowerBait, and spinners.

Fly rodders should do well using the usual assortment of wooly buggers, leech and chironomid patterns fished under an indicator. Damselfly nymphs should also start working, especially near any aquatic vegetation. Dry flies in the evenings should start working. Vegetation is growing at the south end of the lake, but as of early this week access was still good.

Angel Lake

Fishing has been good for 8- to 10-inch trout using worms, green PowerBait and small spinners from the dam and along the back side of the lake. Fly fishermen have had good luck along the back of the lake from float tubes using small dry flies, ants and leech patterns.

Almost any small dark dry fly is working. A few small pale morning dun Mayflies were seen being taken by trout, so PMDs and small elk hair caddis should also work. Small crystal buggers, leech patterns and the usual nymphs under an indicator should work if they arent hitting dry flies. A dry and dropper rig has been productive.

High mountain lakes

Fishing is good to excellent in the high mountain lakes. Small spinners and worms should all work. Bait anglers may also want to catch some grasshoppers before heading up. They make great bait at the high mountain lakes. Small dry flies and nymphs for fly anglers. Small terrestrial patterns such as ants and hoppers should be working. Chironomid patterns as well as midge dry flies are also good here. No matter what type of fishing technique, fish the edges where bushes overhang the water or fish around large submerged boulders and where snowmelt enters the lakes. The lakes furthest from the trailheads are doing the best due to less pressure.

Streams

A very hot summer has melted much of the above average snow pack and stream flows in many areas are now at or below the long-term median for this time of year. Most are very fishable, with anglers reporting good fishing in many of them. However, with low flows, water temperatures are up and in streams like the Bruneau River fish are holding near springs and deeper pools where the water is cooler.

The tailwaters below South Fork is still producing trophy trout as well as a few bass, though flows have dropped. Fishing at the beaver ponds in Lamoille Canyon is improving and the flows in the creek are fishable. Water conditions below Wild Horse Dam in the East Fork of the Owyhee are ideal and fishing has been very good here.

The flows on the Jarbidge and Bruneau rivers are good for fishing these small streams. The Charleston Road to Jarbidge is open. As of Aug. 7, the East Fork of the Owyhee was flowing at 95.1 cfs below the dam and 94 cfs at Mountain City; the Jarbidge was flowing at 9.07 cfs; the Bruneau at 10.2 cfs; Salmon Falls Creek at 15.2 cfs; Lamoille Creek at 10.3 cfs; the South Fork of the Humboldt at 17.3 cfs; Cleve Creek at 7.29 cfs; Steptoe Creek at 5.37 cfs; and Kingston Creek at 15.6 cfs.
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Montreal, Aug 7 : Marking a potentially pivotal moment, more than 300 delegates will convene in Montreal, from August 12 to 16 to advance a 2022 global agreement to share fairly and equitably the multi-trillion dollar annual revenues and other benefits derived from uses of digital sequence information (DSI) on genetic resources, including the DNA of plants, animals, and microorganisms.

The Ad Hoc Open-ended Working Group on Benefit-sharing from the Use of DSI on Genetic Resources, established by the 196 nations to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), will work through options for operationalising the multilateral mechanism, including a global fund.

The multilateral mechanism and the associated global fund were adopted at COP15 as part of the historic Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), the world's master plan guiding biodiversity actions through 2030 towards achieving the vision of a world living in harmony with nature by 2050.

If its operationalisation is adopted at COP16 (Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1), the multilateral mechanism, including a global fund, is expected to mobilise new streams of additional funding for biodiversity conservation worldwide, and to support the CBD's three overarching objectives: conserving biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the use of genetic resources.

"The parties (nations) are ready to move towards the next stage of considering options based on the work that has been done so far. We appreciate their vote of confidence and commitment towards a pragmatic and adaptive solution that is cost-effective, efficient and simple," said Mphatso Kalemba of Malawi and William Lockhart of the UK, the Co-Chairs of the Ad Hoc Open-Ended Working Group within which the negotiations are unfolding.

"At this meeting, we hope to hear a clear positive signal of commitment and goodwill to the shape of this multilateral mechanism."

Sectors that rely on DSI, such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cosmetics, agriculture and other consumer products, stand to gain from clearer guidelines on benefit-sharing, while Indigenous peoples and local communities, as custodians of biodiversity, stand to benefit from the fund.

The talks in Montreal will address critical operational details: who pays, how much, and under what conditions, and how to ensure transparency and inclusivity in decision-making.

"The multilateral mechanism is a game-changer. It is expected to provide a multilateral solution and policy guidance on benefit-sharing from the use of DSI on genetic resources, address the crucial aspects of equity, fairness and social justice, bolster capacity-building and development and technology transfer, and mobilise new streams of biodiversity finance," said Astrid Schomaker, Executive Secretary of the CBD, adding the multilateral mechanism could be a signature outcome of the forthcoming COP16 in Colombia.

"In the same manner as the historic Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework adopted in 2022, a breakthrough on the DSI multilateral mechanism would signal that environmental multilateralism can deliver for people and nature," Schomaker added.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The government has warned access service providers and their delivery telemarketers to come forward and take effective measures to curb bulk communications and spam using voice calls.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) held a meeting with the industry stakeholders in the national capital to discuss action on spammers, amid growing consumer complaints about unsolicited commercial calls.

According to the government, the deliberations were on instances of misuse of headers and content templates without the knowledge of entities.

The stakeholders also discussed steps taken by access service providers and delivery telemarketers to identify and trace the entities responsible for sending such messages and to take corrective measures to prevent such cases.

They also informed about the control of promotion calls whether robotic calls, auto-dialler calls or pre-recorded calls, and migration of all such enterprise business customers on the Distributed ledger technology (DLT) platform for sending bulk communication in compliance with the TRAI regulations.

TRAI has sought proactive action from all the stakeholders, specially access service providers and their delivery telemarketers, to take immediate action.

It includes implementing technical solutions for traceability and to prevent bulk calling by their enterprise customers using 10-digit numbers through PRI/SIP.

In order to tackle the spread of spam calls, the central government last month extended the timeline for feedback submission for draft guidelines by 15 days.

The Department of Consumer Affairs, which is also deliberating on the spam call menace received various suggestions which were under examination.

Meanwhile, the stakeholders urged the government to ensure a level-playing field in regulatory compliance requirements between telecom service providers (TSPs) and other messaging platforms providing similar communication services.

The industry players continue to assist the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), TRAI and the Department of Consumer Affairs in addressing the spam calls and SMS menace.

The issue involves multiple stakeholders -- TSPs, telemarketers, aggregators, principal entities (PEs) like banks, financial institutions and real estate agencies, according to the Cellular Operators' Association of India (COAI).
Seoul, Aug 7 : The recent electric vehicle fire incidents involving Mercedes-Benz and Kia models could not have come at a worse time for the local automotive industry, which has been eagerly preparing to introduce ambitious new electric models to tackle the so-called EV adoption chasm.

While waiting for the official investigation results, the industry is fretting over the spike in consumers' doubts over the safety of what are supposed to be cutting-edge, advanced cars for the future, reports Yonhap news agency.

The latest scare surrounding electric cars started last Thursday, when a Mercedes-Benz EQE vehicle caught fire in an underground parking garage inside an apartment complex in Incheon, 27 kms west of Seoul.

The fire gutted the facility, completely ravaging around 40 nearby vehicles and partly damaging some 100 additional cars. Over 800 residents were staying in temporary shelters due to a disruption in the water and power supply.

Police confirmed that no external shock was inflicted on the vehicle while it was parked for three days before it burst into flames. Security camera footage showed smoke billowing from the Mercedes before it suddenly exploded.

On Tuesday, another fire incident was reported involving a EV6 model by South Korean automaker Kia in Geumsan county, South Chungcheong Province.

The fire apparently began at the lower part of the EV6, which had a charger plugged in at the time, where the battery is located. It was extinguished in about 90 minutes with no additional damages. The police plan to send the vehicle to Kia for a detailed investigation into the cause of the fire.

The Mercedes was found to have a battery supplied by Chinese firm Farasis Energy, while that of the EV6 was reportedly made by South Korean firm SK On Co.

As EVs have become more and more common, so has the number of fire cases. In 2018, there were three reported EV fire cases. Last year, the tally jumped to 72.

With a series of new launches scheduled from the second half of this year through next year, concerns remain within the industry that consumers may avoid purchasing electric vehicles.

"During an EV battery fire, temperatures can exceed up to 1,000 C, causing the battery cells to melt completely," an industry insider said. "It could make it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the fire.

"If consumer concerns about the safety of electric vehicle batteries are not alleviated, the transition to full electrification could inevitably be delayed," he added.

Following the Incheon accident, some apartment complexes and office buildings have prohibited EVs from entering underground parking garages. Local battery manufacturers are also monitoring the situation closely.

Experts advise that to prevent EV fires during heat waves, it is best to avoid using ground-level chargers and to use slow chargers, ensuring that the battery is not charged beyond 90 percent.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : India exported non-basmati rice worth $ 122.7 million during April-May in the current financial year. The government is closely monitoring the production, availability and export situation to assess suitable policy intervention, as per Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada's written reply to the Lok Sabha.

The non-basmati rice exports came down to $852.53 million in 2023-24, from $2.2 billion in 2022-23 and $2 billion in 2021-22, according to the data provided by the minister.

He also informed that the export of non-basmati white rice has been banned since July 20, 2023. However, export is allowed on the basis of permission granted by the government to friendly countries to meet their food security needs and based on the request of their government.

India has exported non-basmati rice to Maldives (1,24,218.36 MT), Mauritius (14,000 MT), Malawi (1,000 MT), Zimbabwe (1,000 MT), and Namibia (1,000 MT). MT is metric tonnes during the current financial year so far.

In 2023-24, the country exported rice to 17 countries including Bhutan (79,000 MT), Mauritius (14,000 MT), Singapore (50,000 MT), UAE (75,000 MT), Nepal (95,000 MT), Cameroon (1,90,000 MT), Cote d' Ivore (1,42,000 MT), Guinea (1,42,000 MT), and Malaysia (1,70,000 MT).

The other countries are Philippines (2,95,000 MT), Seychelles (800 MT), Comoros (20,000 MT), Madagascar (50,000 MT), Equatorial Guinea (10,000 MT), Egypt (60,000 MT), Kenya (1,00,000 MT), and Tanzania (30,000 MT).

In reply to another question, Prasada said that the Government has initiated the creation of Trade Connect ePlatform to connect Indian Exporters, MSMEs and Entrepreneurs with various stakeholders including Indian Missions Abroad, Export Promotion Councils, and other Partner Government Agencies.

The platform will provide information on trade events taking place in different parts of the world, benefits available due to India's Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and other international trade-related information and data, he added.

He highlighted the details of various steps taken by the Ministry to promote Indian exports. These include the interest equalisation scheme on pre- and post-shipment Rupee export credit which has been extended up to 31-08-2024 with an additional allocation of Rs 2,500 crore.

Assistance has also been provided through several schemes to promote exports, namely, Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES) and Market Access Initiatives (MAI). Besides, a rebate of State and Central Levies and Taxes Scheme to promote labour-oriented sector export has been put in place since 2019.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Mumbai, Aug 7 : Actress and fitness enthusiast Mallika Sherawat has revealed her favourite drink to stay fit and glowing.

Mallika took to her Instagram stories, where she shared a video of herself enjoying a healthy green juice, which is mostly made up of green leafy vegetables, cucumbers, green apples, and lime.

She captioned the clip: "Green juice is my favourite drink #ilovegreenjuice" and added the song "FE!N" by rapper Travis Scott.

Mallika recently returned to California after holidaying in Paris and shared how she feels "great to be back home" on social media.

Mallika posted a video of herself opening her backyard door and playing with her pet dog.

"Feels great to be back home, Los Angeles I have missed you," she wrote as the caption.

Mallika stepped into cinema in 2002 with the film "Jeena Sirf Merre Liye", where she was credited as Reema Lamba. However, over her journey in the 2000s, she got the title of a sex symbol courtesy her performance in the Emraan Hashmi-starrer "Murder," a 2004 romantic thriller.

She went on to work in films in the West with movies such as "Hisss" and "Politics of Love". Her filmography also includes movies including "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.

Most recently, Mallika was seen in the comedy drama "RK/RKay", which is directed by Rajat Kapoor. The film also stars names such as Ranvir Shorey, Manu Rishi Chadha, and Kubbra Sait.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
New Delhi, Aug 7 : A study conducted by ICAR-CICR found that the income of farmers has increased with the adoption of Bt cotton in the country as the yield is higher by 3 to 4 quintals per acre and there is a reduction in insecticide cost against the cotton bollworm, Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare Ramnath Thakur informed the Lok Sabha.

New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) A study conducted by ICAR-CICR found that the income of farmers has increased with the adoption of Bt cotton in the country as the yield is higher by 3 to 4 quintals per acre and there is a reduction in insecticide cost against the cotton bollworm, Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmersa Welfare Ramnath Thakur informed the Lok Sabha.

The current net return from Bt cotton is estimated at Rs 25,000 per hectare in rainfed areas with the adoption of suitable agronomy. With the rapid adoption of Bt. cotton by the farmers, currently more than 96 per cent area under cotton cultivation is occupied by Bt cotton, he added,

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur conducted a study to evaluate the impact of Bt cotton in Maharashtra during 2012-13 and 2013-14. ICAR-CICR also conducted a study on the impact of Bt cotton on soil ecology.

During the period of survey, the incidence of bollworm infestation reduced drastically and the number of insecticide applications fell from eight to four. Further, ICAR-CICR studies had shown no adverse effect of Bt cotton cultivation on soil ecological parameters.

Bt cotton is the only Genetically Modified (GM) crop approved in 2002 by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for commercial cultivation in the country, the minister added.

During the year 2023a"24, Bt cotton was grown in 129.27 lakh hectares in 11 cotton-producing states of the country. The total production of Bt cotton during the year was 336.6 lakh bales while the yield was estimated at 443 kg per hectare.

Maharashtra had the highest area under Bt cotton cultivation with the crop being grown in 41.82 lakh hectares, Gujarat was in the second spot with 24.84 lakh hectares followed by Telangana with 19.73 lakh and Karnataka with 9.49 lakh hectares.

In Andhra Pradesh there were 7.04 lakh hectares under Bt cotton during 202-23 while as many as 4,73,345 farmers were cultivating the crop, the minister said.

Among the northern states, Rajasthan had the highest acreage under Bt cotton with the crop being sown in 8.15 lakh hectares. Neighbouring Haryana devoted 5.75 lakh lakh hectares to Bt cotton while Punjab had 2.49 lakh hectares under the crop.

In the central region, the crop was being grown in Madhya Pradesh which had 5.95 lakh hectares sown with Bt cotton during 2022-23.
Los Angeles, Aug 7 : Hollywood star Kate Winslet is comfortable in her own skin, and she wants everybody who works with her to know this.

The actress refuses to be ashamed of looking like the 48-year-old mother-of-two that she is, by a crew member on the set of her new film, about war photographer Lee Miller, reports Mirror.co.uk.

She told Harper's Bazaar: "There's a bit where Lee is sitting on a bench in a bikini. And one of the crew came up between takes and said, 'you might want to sit up straighter'. So you can't see my belly rolls? Not in your life! It was deliberate, you know?"

Asked if she minded looking her age on the big screen, she said: "The opposite. I take pride in it because it is my life on my face, and that matters. It wouldn't occur to me to cover that up."

As per Mirror.co.uk, the star has a bucket list of 50 things she wants to do to celebrate her 50th birthday.

She said: "I want to spend the year doing 50 remarkable things, whether that's a particular hike I've never done, or acts of kindness. I'm gathering a little list."

Kate's new film, 'Lee', about the fashion model who became a Second World War photographer for Vogue, is set to be released next month.

In June, Kate opened up about how she felt "beaten up" in the spotlight following her role in the acclaimed film 'Titanic'.

Speaking of her role alongside Leonardo DiCaprio in the 1997 blockbuster, she revealed that she found it hard to talk about how hurt she was by commentary on her body following her role in it.

She told Variety: "I actually felt a bit beaten up by it, truth be told  I had a lovely family, but all my family saw is 'My God, Kate's got work in a really big film'."

"One doesn't want to turn around to your mum and dad and say 'it's really hard, actually'," she added.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that minimum account balance rules do not apply to PM Jan Dhan and basic saving accounts.

"Minimum account balance rule does not apply to PM Jan Dhan accounts and basic savings accounts. It applies only to those bank accounts where customers are required to maintain a certain minimum balance in their accounts," the Finance Minister said in response to a question in Rajya Sabha on the penalty of Rs 8,500 crore collected by public sector banks in the last five years for non-maintenance of minimum balance in bank accounts by customers.

The government banks that charged fines for not maintaining minimum balance include Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Punjab and Sind Bank, Union Bank of India Bank, UCO Bank, Indian Bank, Canara Bank, Bank of Maharashtra and Central Bank of India.

Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary had told the Lok Sabha last month that public sector banks have collected a fine of Rs 2,331 crore in FY24 for not maintaining minimum balance.

"This amount was 25 per cent more than the amount from last year," the MoS said.

In the financial year 2023-24, a penalty of Rs 633 crore was collected by Punjab National Bank, Rs 386 crore by Bank of Baroda and Rs 369 crore by Indian Bank for non-maintenance of minimum balance.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Congress MP K Suresh on Wednesday demanded that Indians living in strife-torn Bangladesh be evacuate from the country.

"The condition of Bangladesh is very critical, the crisis is still prevailing. We are very concerned about those people who are living and studying there," K Suresh told IANS.

In a plea to the Centre the Congress MP said, "I appeal to the government of India to ensure the safety and security of Indians in Bangladesh."

Dwelling on External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar's statement in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh, Suresh said, "The Congress party is with the government and whatever they will decide we are in favour of it."

Earlier on Tuesday, EAM Jaishankar 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 over the quota issue.

"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 minorities.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the bodies of 29 people, including 20 Awami League leaders, were found across the country, local media reported on Wednesday.

At least 10 people were killed in violence-hit Satkhira, and 11 more lost their lives in mob attacks in Comilla.

Police have also reported incidents of arson across multiple cities. Eyewitnesses recounted an attack on the house of former councillor Md Shah Alam in Ashoktala, which was set ablaze by an "angry mob."
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended greeting on the tenth National Handloom Day and reiterated his government's commitment to be 'Vocal For Local'.

Expressing pride over the rich heritage and vibrant tradition of handlooms, he also cherished the efforts of the artisans.

Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi said, "Greetings on National Handloom Day! We take immense pride in the rich heritage and vibrant tradition of handlooms across our nation. We also cherish the efforts of our artisans and reiterate our commitment to be 'Vocal for Local'."

On the occasion, Union Ministers Amit Shah and Dharmendra Pradhan also extended the greetings.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said handloom sector bears the imprints of Bharat's pride, progress, and heritage.

"On #NationalHandloomDay, I extend my greetings to our dedicated weavers' community and the people associated with the sector. The handloom sector bears the imprints of Bharat's pride, progress, and heritage. The Modi govt, is firmly committed to the prosperity of the sector and has launched a number of schemes to achieve this purpose," he posted on X.

"May this occasion strengthen our resolve to promote and opt for handloom products to further strengthen the sector," the Union Home Minister said.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, "Sambalpuri handlooms are elegant and stand out as a symbol of unparalleled creative heritage, unmatched craftsmanship and enduring spirit of artisans community. Sambalpuras weaving traditions are also a source of pride and cultural identity. Wearing this Sambalpuri kurta and jacket to work today. I take great pride in celebrating India's handloom legacy."

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said, "Best wishes on National Handloom Day to all the weavers and business brothers and sisters of the handloom industry who preserve the spirit of self-respect through Swadeshi and keep the Indian culture and traditions alive through their work and craftsmanship! Come, let us all participate in achieving the resolution of self-reliant and prosperous India by adopting handloom and indigenous products."

The nation celebrated the first Handloom Day on August 7, 2015, guided by the vision of PM Modi.

The date was specifically chosen to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement which was launched on August 7, 1905 and encouraged indigenous industries, particularly handloom weavers.

The day, which celebrates handloom weavers and provide motivation and sense of pride to the handloom industry, by appreciating their contribution to the cultural, traditional and economic landscape of the country, aims to generate awareness about the importance of the handloom sector and its contribution to the socio-economic development of the country.
Nazrin Abdul

The prospects of oil supplies from Azerbaijan to Kyrgyzstan and the export of agricultural products from Kyrgyzstan, including lamb and beans, were discussed, Azernews reports citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan.

The discussions took place during a meeting between Elnur Aliyev, the First Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan, and Maksat Mamytkanov, the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan. Additionally, issues related to the transportation and volume of goods along the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan-Caspian Sea-Azerbaijan route, taking into account the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, were addressed. The parties agreed to continue their joint activities in this direction.

The meeting also covered issues of trade and economic cooperation between the countries.

The activities of the Azerbaijan-Kyrgyzstan Development Fund, whose charter capital was increased to 100 million USD during Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov's state visit to Azerbaijan in April this year, were also discussed.
Meanwhile, Vietnamese citizens in Bangladesh need to take measures to protect themselves and their families, refrain from travelling to crowded areas and venues where demonstrations may occur, the ministry said Wednesday.



The ministry also urged Vietnamese citizens in Bangladesh to regularly follow instructions of the local authorities and warnings of the ministry and Vietnamese embassy in Bangladesh.

Those who need support can contact the following hotlines:

Vietnamese Embassy in Bangladesh: +880 1711595379;

Ministry of Foreign Affairs' citizen protection hotline: +84 981 84 84 84./.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Drowsy driving is a critical hazard which contributes to road accidents worldwide. However, engineers have now developed earbuds to address the drowsiness while driving.

Engineers at the University of California, Berkeley, have developed prototype earbuds that can detect signs of drowsiness in the brain, aiming to protect drivers and machine operators from the dangers of drowsiness.

The earbuds function like an electroencephalogram (EEG), measuring brain waves through built-in electrodes that contact the ear canal. While the electrical signals detected are smaller than those in traditional EEGs, the new study shows that the Ear EEG platform is sensitive enough to detect alpha waves, a pattern of brain activity that increases when drowsiness sets in.

"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. We believe this technology can classify drowsiness, indicating its potential to classify sleep and diagnose sleep disorders," said study author Rikky Muller, Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at UC Berkeley

Creating an earbud that fits a variety of ear sizes and shapes posed significant challenges. While other groups used wet electrode gels or custom-moulded earpieces, Muller's team aimed for a dry, user-generic model that anyone could use.

"My goal was to create a device usable every day by those who would benefit from it," said Ryan Kaveh, the designer.

Kaveh designed the earpiece in three sizes. The design includes multiple electrodes applying gentle pressure to the ear canal, ensuring a comfortable fit, with signals read through a low-power, wireless interface.

In a paper, the researchers demonstrated the earpieces could detect physiological signals, including eye blinks and alpha brain waves. The study incorporated machine learning to validate the earpieces' real-world application. Nine volunteers wore the earpieces while performing tasks in a darkened room, periodically rating their drowsiness and response times.

"We found that even with seemingly lower signal quality, we could classify drowsiness onset as accurately as with more complex systems," Kaveh said. The earpieces' accuracy in new users suggests they could work 'out of the box'.

Exploring other applications, including recording heartbeats, eye movements and jaw clenches are in the works.
Seoul, Aug 7 : North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has attended a ceremony to dispatch young workers to flood-affected areas on the northern border, describing the restoration efforts as a "gigantic revolutionary construction campaign," the state media said on Wednesday.

The border city of Sinuiju and Uiju County in North Phyongan Province were recently struck by heavy rains. While North Korea has not released detailed information on the damage, South Korean media outlets have reported that the number of dead or missing could exceed 1,000, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The departure ceremony for the Paektusan Hero Youth Shock Brigade took place in Pyongyang on Tuesday, Yonhap news agency reported quoting KCNA.

The North's leader said that such restoration work would give a complete facelift to the territory, expressing confidence that the youth members would be a vanguard unit for socialist construction.

He also mentioned that nearly 300,000 young people have volunteered for the recovery efforts in less than a week, emphasising that such explosive volunteering enthusiasm is unparalleled in any other country.

Kim's attendance is seen as a tactic to prevent large-scale ideological defection during a national crisis and to demonstrate to the outside world the regime's ability to overcome disaster situations on its own.

Observers say Pyongyang is unlikely to accept Seoul's proposal for flood aid. Last Thursday, the South Korean government offered humanitarian aid to North Korea for the damage.

North Korea has not yet responded through the inter-Korean liaison communication channel.

North Korea has also declined Russia's offer of assistance with rain damage recovery, stating that it will seek Moscow's help when necessary.

The Paektusan Hero Youth Shock Brigade is a youth organization frequently deployed for large-scale civil engineering and construction projects in North Korea. They were involved in the completion of a power plant in 2016 and the construction of urban districts in Pyongyang.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that minimum account balance rules do not apply to PM Jan Dhan and basic saving accounts.

"Minimum account balance rule does not apply to PM Jan Dhan accounts and basic savings accounts. It applies only to those bank accounts where customers are required to maintain a certain minimum balance in their accounts," the Finance Minister said in response to a question in Rajya Sabha on the penalty of Rs 8,500 crore collected by public sector banks in the last five years for non-maintenance of minimum balance in bank accounts by customers.

The government banks that charged fines for not maintaining minimum balance include Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Punjab and Sind Bank, Union Bank of India Bank, UCO Bank, Indian Bank, Canara Bank, Bank of Maharashtra and Central Bank of India.

Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary had told the Lok Sabha last month that public sector banks have collected a fine of Rs 2,331 crore in FY24 for not maintaining minimum balance.

"This amount was 25 per cent more than the amount from last year," the MoS said.

In the financial year 2023-24, a penalty of Rs 633 crore was collected by Punjab National Bank, Rs 386 crore by Bank of Baroda and Rs 369 crore by Indian Bank for non-maintenance of minimum balance.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (Jan Dhan or PMJDY), the Union government's financial inclusion plan, envisages at least one basic banking account per household, improved financial literacy, and access to credit, insurance, and pension facilities.

Launched in 2014, PMJDY accounts are now about 23 per cent of India's total savings accounts by number.

According to PIB data, a total of 52.81 crore Jan Dhan accounts with a deposit balance of Rs. 2,30,792 crores have been opened as of 19.07.2024 under PMJDY.

Out of the same, 29.37 crores (55.6 per cent) Jan Dhan accounts belong to women and about 35.15 crore (66.6 per cent) PMJDY accounts have been opened in rural and semi-urban areas.
Seoul, Aug 7 : The South Korean customs agency said on Wednesday it will intensify its crackdown on drug smuggling attempts from Mexico by setting up a special task force and strengthening security checks on incoming travelers.

The move came as direct flights linking the two nations resumed this week after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 and other issues, which is feared will increase cross-border attempts to smuggle drugs, according to the Korea Customs Service (KCS), Yonhap news agency reported.

The special task force will be in charge of measures to prevent drug trafficking, such as information analysis and enhanced monitoring of suspected travelers.

The KCS will employ millimeter wave machines and other advanced devices to conduct security checks on all incoming travelers from Mexico.

South Korea has tightened its border control in line with growing smuggling attempts after the pandemic and rising demand for narcotics here.

During the first half of this year, the number of drug trafficking attempts into South Korea rose 11 percent on-year to come to 362 cases, data showed.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : The Mumbai Police have come across a video, purportedly of the macabre crime in which two persons allegedly killed their friend in a suspected 'love quadrangle' and sought to carry his body in a trolley bag at Dadar station where they were caught, officials said here on Wednesday.

Mumbai, Aug 7 (IANS) The Mumbai Police have come across a video, purportedly of the macabre crime in which two persons allegedly killed their friend in a suspected alove quadranglea and sought to carry his body in a trolley bag at Dadar station where they were caught, officials said here on Wednesday.

The victim was a partially deaf-mute man, Arshadali Sadiqueali Shaikh, 30, a resident of Santacruz East, working as a peon, while his two friends are Jai Pravin Chavda, a typist and Shivjeet Surendra Singh, who were arrested by Pydhonie Police Station late on Monday.

The accused duo was produced before a court on Tuesday and shunted to police custody till August 12, even as the police are tracking the antecedents of the video suspected to be shot by one of the friends, besides scanning the CCTV footage of the vicinity.

Last Sunday (August 4) night, after a huge brawl over a woman in a purported love quadrangle, Chavda and Singh allegedly clobbered Shaikh to death with multiple blows by a hammer, at the formeras home in Pydhonie.

They stuffed his body in a trolley bag and Chavda is seen lugging it on Platform No. 11 of Dadar station to catch a train and probably dump it off en route during the journey.

However, a Railway Protection Force (RPF) constable noticed it and detained the person on suspicion for questioning and searching the bag from which the blood-soaked body tumbled out.

The CCTV footage in police possession shows Chavda struggling with the trolley bag and hurrying to catch a local train around 11.46 p.m. on August 4 from Platform No. 11.

Appearing jumpy and fidgety, he is seen waiting for a train, shoving the bag around, walking around and behaving strangely, catching the attention of an alert RPF constable, who took him aside for enquiries.

Chavdaas questioning led the police to Singh who was also picked up and questioned the next day (Monday) and the lid was blown off the sensational 'body-in-bag murder' case.

As cops probe further, a suspected love quadrangle emerged with all three men -- suffering from speech-hearing impairment -- squabbling over the sole woman whose identity is not clear yet.
Suva, Aug 7 : President Droupadi Murmu received a warm send-off from Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad at Nadi airport as she concluded her state visit to Fiji on Wednesday.

Earlier in the day, President Murmu paid her respects at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi, which is one of the largest Hindu temples in the Pacific.

She was warmly welcomed by members of the Fijian Indian community at the temple.

This visit by the President was focused on further strengthening the cultural ties between the two nations.

On Tuesday, 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 as she arrived in Suva on the first leg of her three-nation visit.

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.

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.

Later, addressing the Fijian Parliament, she 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.

During her visit, 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 has now left for Auckland for a three-day state visit to New Zealand at the invitation of Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro.

She will hold bilateral meetings with the Governor General and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
Hyderabad, Aug 7 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao on Wednesday urged the governments at the Centre and in Telangana to continue the welfare scheme for weavers and "rescue the handloom sector from the crisis".

Claiming that the BRS government during the last 10 years undertook several initiatives for the welfare of weavers, he demanded that the Central and state governments implement the same schemes.

KTR, as Rama Rao is popularly known, in a statement claimed that the 10-year rule of BRS was a golden era for weavers in the nation's history as the handloom sector made rapid strides during the period.

The former minister said that the BRS government under the visionary leadership of K. Chandrasekhar Rao launched several innovative schemes for the development of the handloom sector and the welfare of weavers.

He said under the BRS rule, the annual budget for the handloom sector was doubled to Rs 1,200 crore, compared to six years under the previous governments in undivided Andhra Pradesh.

KTR listed out the key schemes implemented by the BRS government. These include 'Chenetha Mitra' subsidy scheme, 'Nethannaku Cheyuta' thrift fund, and 'Netannaku Bima', under which life insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh was provided to the families of 36,000 weavers. The previous government also waived loans to the tune of Rs 29 crore, benefiting 10,150 handloom workers.

The BRS leader, who represents the Sircilla Assembly constituency famous for its textile town, said the BRS government had also launched an innovative scheme for distribution of Bathukamma sarees to Telangana women to help the weavers earn a remunerative income. He also cited the establishment of the Apparel Park in Sircilla and the Kakatiya Mega Textile Park in Warangal as the other initiatives to strengthen the sector.

"BRS took many steps for the development of the handloom sector and the welfare of weavers. The BJP government at Centre adopted policies which were detrimental to the sector. GST was imposed on handlooms while All India Handloom Board, All India Handicrafts Board and All Indian Powerloom Board were abolished. Even the schemes for the welfare of weavers were scrapped and the subsidy on yarn was reduced from 40 per cent to 15 per cent," KTR said.

The BRS leader alleged that under the Revanth Reddy government, the handloom sector of Telangana once again slipped into crisis, with weavers' suicides being reported every day.
Lucknow, Aug 7 : Ayodhya gang-rape victim underwent an abortion at Queen Mary's Hospital in King George's Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow and the sample of the foetus has been taken for DNA test which will help police in the investigation of the case.

Lucknow, Aug 7 (IANS) Ayodhya gang-rape victim underwent an abortion at Queen Maryas Hospital in King George's Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow and the sample of the foetus has been taken for DNA test which will help police in the investigation of the case.

According to sources, the 12-year-old girl was aborted at KGMU on Tuesday. The condition of the victim is said to be normal and she will soon be discharged from the hospital.

Police will identify the accused on the basis of the DNA report. Of late, Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav had demanded a DNA test to nab the culprits.

The rape victim was referred from Ayodhya District Hospital to Queen Maryas Hospital in Lucknow when the health of the girl deteriorated. The victim was admitted to Lucknow hospital on Monday under tight police security.

In an incident that sparked widespread outrage, Samajwadi Party leader Moid Khan and his servant Raju Khan allegedly raped the 12-year-old girl after luring her with a job at their bakery. They also recorded the misdeed. The case came to light when the girl complained of stomach ache to her family. Upon investigation, she was found to be pregnant.

It was said in the complaint that the accused kept raping the girl for two months and also threatened to kill her if she told anyone.

Moid Khan and Raju Khan were later arrested by the police.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also raised the issue of SP leader Moid Khan, the main accused of raping the minor, in the state Assembly. He said that no culprit would be spared.

Earlier, the district administration had bulldozed the bakery of accused Moid Khan. Also, Food Safety Department officials raided the bakery of the accused, seized all the goods and sealed his bakery.
Bhopal, Aug 7 : Madhya Pradesh BJP on Wednesday criticised the Congress after some of its leaders said that anti-government protests akin to the neighbouring Bangladesh can also occur in India.

"Congress leaders who are making such statements have lost their minds. They should avoid making controversial remarks on the Bangladesh situation. I request Congress top leadership including Rahul Gandhi to ask their leaders to refrain from making such comments," said three-time BJP MLA from Bhopal (Huzur assembly seat) Rameshwar Sharma told IANS.

Earlier, Congress leader and former minister Sajjan Singh Verma said that India may witness anti-government protests similar to Bangladesh.

"The people of India are fed up with corruption, and they may barge into the Prime Minister's house," said Verma, a loyalist of ex-CM Kamal Nath.

On Tuesday, senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Salman Khurshid cautioned that a violent anti-government protest similar to those in Bangladesh could potentially occur in India, despite the appearance of normalcy on the surface.

Rameshwar Sharma told IANS that even when Indira Gandhi imposed an Emergency in the country and the Sikh riots occurred, the people didn't attack the PM's house.

"Congress has always played politics of division and appeasement, but we aspect some decency from its top leadership in this situation," Rameshwar Sharma.
Ulaanbaatar, Aug 7 : A flood warning has been issued in Mongolia after water levels in the major rivers across the country surpassed due to continuous heavy rainfall, National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring (NEMHEM) reported on Wednesday.

As of Wednesday morning, several key rivers, including the Tuul, Kherlen, Selenge, Onon, Orkhon, and Kharaa, have exceeded their warning levels by 20 to 195 centimeters, Xinhua news agency reported quoting NEMHEM.

The agency has indicated that these levels are expected to rise further in the coming days.

Heavy rains have impacted large areas of the country, particularly the central and eastern regions, since late July.

In response, the agency has issued a warning for the public, especially nomadic herders living along the flooded rivers and tourists, urging them to take extra precautions to guard against potential disasters.
Photo taken on Aug. 4, 2024 shows an exhibition themed with "Germination - In Commemoration of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu" ongoing at the Tsinghua University Art Museum in Beijing, China's capital city. Coinciding with the 160th anniversary of Qi Baishi's birth and the 100th anniversary of Huang Yongyu's birth, the exhibition was held as a fitting tribute and commemoration "Germination" focuses on those artworks of animal themes to capture the artistic images created by Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, and to pay tribute to their evergreen artistic life and immortal artistic spirit. Focusing on the artworks of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, the exhibition also gathers the classic works of 20 famous artists from ancient and modern times, including Ren Bonian, Xu Gu, Wang Mengbai, Xu Beihong, Zhu Danian, and Wu Guanzhong. At the same time, there are several representative works by 15 contemporary artists, including Pang Jun, Jin Yucheng, Wei Xiaom-ing, Xu Lei, Zhao Bandi, and Zhou Chunya. In addition to painting and sculpture, the exhibits of TAM collection also includes exquisite works from various categories such as dyeing and weaving handiwork, embroidery, ceramics, and bronzes of ancient times. There are a total of 273 exhibits here on display in six sections. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on Aug. 4, 2024 shows people visiting an exhibition themed with "Germination - In Commemoration of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu" ongoing at the Tsinghua University Art Museum in Beijing, China's capital city. Coinciding with the 160th anniversary of Qi Baishi's birth and the 100th anniversary of Huang Yongyu's birth, the exhibition was held as a fitting tribute and commemoration "Germination" focuses on those artworks of animal themes to capture the artistic images created by Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, and to pay tribute to their evergreen artistic life and immortal artistic spirit. Focusing on the artworks of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, the exhibition also gathers the classic works of 20 famous artists from ancient and modern times, including Ren Bonian, Xu Gu, Wang Mengbai, Xu Beihong, Zhu Danian, and Wu Guanzhong. At the same time, there are several representative works by 15 contemporary artists, including Pang Jun, Jin Yucheng, Wei Xiaom-ing, Xu Lei, Zhao Bandi, and Zhou Chunya. In addition to painting and sculpture, the exhibits of TAM collection also includes exquisite works from various categories such as dyeing and weaving handiwork, embroidery, ceramics, and bronzes of ancient times. There are a total of 273 exhibits here on display in six sections. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on Aug. 4, 2024 shows people visiting an exhibition themed with "Germination - In Commemoration of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu" ongoing at the Tsinghua University Art Museum in Beijing, China's capital city. Coinciding with the 160th anniversary of Qi Baishi's birth and the 100th anniversary of Huang Yongyu's birth, the exhibition was held as a fitting tribute and commemoration "Germination" focuses on those artworks of animal themes to capture the artistic images created by Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, and to pay tribute to their evergreen artistic life and immortal artistic spirit. Focusing on the artworks of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, the exhibition also gathers the classic works of 20 famous artists from ancient and modern times, including Ren Bonian, Xu Gu, Wang Mengbai, Xu Beihong, Zhu Danian, and Wu Guanzhong. At the same time, there are several representative works by 15 contemporary artists, including Pang Jun, Jin Yucheng, Wei Xiaom-ing, Xu Lei, Zhao Bandi, and Zhou Chunya. In addition to painting and sculpture, the exhibits of TAM collection also includes exquisite works from various categories such as dyeing and weaving handiwork, embroidery, ceramics, and bronzes of ancient times. There are a total of 273 exhibits here on display in six sections. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on Aug. 4, 2024 shows people visiting an exhibition themed with "Germination - In Commemoration of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu" ongoing at the Tsinghua University Art Museum in Beijing, China's capital city. Coinciding with the 160th anniversary of Qi Baishi's birth and the 100th anniversary of Huang Yongyu's birth, the exhibition was held as a fitting tribute and commemoration "Germination" focuses on those artworks of animal themes to capture the artistic images created by Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, and to pay tribute to their evergreen artistic life and immortal artistic spirit. Focusing on the artworks of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, the exhibition also gathers the classic works of 20 famous artists from ancient and modern times, including Ren Bonian, Xu Gu, Wang Mengbai, Xu Beihong, Zhu Danian, and Wu Guanzhong. At the same time, there are several representative works by 15 contemporary artists, including Pang Jun, Jin Yucheng, Wei Xiaom-ing, Xu Lei, Zhao Bandi, and Zhou Chunya. In addition to painting and sculpture, the exhibits of TAM collection also includes exquisite works from various categories such as dyeing and weaving handiwork, embroidery, ceramics, and bronzes of ancient times. There are a total of 273 exhibits here on display in six sections. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on Aug. 4, 2024 shows exhibits diasplayed at an exhibition themed with "Germination - In Commemoration of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu" ongoing at the Tsinghua University Art Museum in Beijing, China's capital city. Coinciding with the 160th anniversary of Qi Baishi's birth and the 100th anniversary of Huang Yongyu's birth, the exhibition was held as a fitting tribute and commemoration "Germination" focuses on those artworks of animal themes to capture the artistic images created by Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, and to pay tribute to their evergreen artistic life and immortal artistic spirit. Focusing on the artworks of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, the exhibition also gathers the classic works of 20 famous artists from ancient and modern times, including Ren Bonian, Xu Gu, Wang Mengbai, Xu Beihong, Zhu Danian, and Wu Guanzhong. At the same time, there are several representative works by 15 contemporary artists, including Pang Jun, Jin Yucheng, Wei Xiaom-ing, Xu Lei, Zhao Bandi, and Zhou Chunya. In addition to painting and sculpture, the exhibits of TAM collection also includes exquisite works from various categories such as dyeing and weaving handiwork, embroidery, ceramics, and bronzes of ancient times. There are a total of 273 exhibits here on display in six sections. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Photo taken on Aug. 4, 2024 shows exhibits diasplayed at an exhibition themed with "Germination - In Commemoration of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu" ongoing at the Tsinghua University Art Museum in Beijing, China's capital city. Coinciding with the 160th anniversary of Qi Baishi's birth and the 100th anniversary of Huang Yongyu's birth, the exhibition was held as a fitting tribute and commemoration "Germination" focuses on those artworks of animal themes to capture the artistic images created by Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, and to pay tribute to their evergreen artistic life and immortal artistic spirit. Focusing on the artworks of Qi Baishi and Huang Yongyu, the exhibition also gathers the classic works of 20 famous artists from ancient and modern times, including Ren Bonian, Xu Gu, Wang Mengbai, Xu Beihong, Zhu Danian, and Wu Guanzhong. At the same time, there are several representative works by 15 contemporary artists, including Pang Jun, Jin Yucheng, Wei Xiaom-ing, Xu Lei, Zhao Bandi, and Zhou Chunya. In addition to painting and sculpture, the exhibits of TAM collection also includes exquisite works from various categories such as dyeing and weaving handiwork, embroidery, ceramics, and bronzes of ancient times. There are a total of 273 exhibits here on display in six sections. (Wang Xinyuan/Guangming Picture)

Editor: WXY
Amaravati, Aug 7 : Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has come out in support of cab drivers from Andhra Pradesh who are allegedly being asked to leave Hyderabad by cab drivers of Telangana and demanded that the Telangana government address the issue with a humanitarian approach.

Stating that unity is the only way for the development of both the Telugu states, Pawan Kalyan said that asking cab drivers from Andhra Pradesh to leave Hyderabad is not justified.

The actor-politician urged cab drivers from Telangana to be sympathetic towards their fellow cab drivers from Andhra Pradesh as their displacement would deprive 2,000 families of their livelihood.

Pawan Kalyan extended his support to the cabbies from Andhra Pradesh when some of them met him here and brought their problems to his notice.

The Jana Sena Party leader said the government of Telangana should respond positively to address their problems.

The Deputy Chief Minister said everyone should have the feeling that both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are one.

"The unity of the people of both the Telugu states alone take us forward on the path of progress. I repeatedly say that Andhra Pradesh should follow the path of development because if the opportunities here grow, the migration from Andhra to Telangana will stop. As a result, the people of Telangana will get more employment opportunities in various sectors," he said.

He urged the cab drivers of Telangana to respond positively and cooperate with their brothers from Andhra Pradesh.

The cab drivers, who called on Pawan Kalyan at Jana Sena office, told him that they are being stopped from operating in Hyderabad and because of this they are unable to live there. They told him that officials and cab drivers in Hyderabad were harassing them and asking them to leave Hyderabad on the ground that on June 2 Hyderabad ceased to be the joint capital of the two states.

Pawan Kalyan told them that work on Andhra Pradesh's capital will start soon. "Activities will start again here and suitable opportunities will be created. There is no reason to stop Andhra Pradesh cabs from staying in Hyderabad after the expiry of the common capital. The issue is linked to the livelihood of 2,000 families," he said.

The Deputy Chief Minister said they would take the initiative to see that the Telangana government solve the problem with a humanitarian approach. The cab drivers there should also respond appropriately to fellow drivers from Andhra Pradesh. There is a need for the two Telugu states to have mutual cooperation, he said.

A group of cab drivers from Andhra Pradesh working in Hyderabad had last month met Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh and complained that they are being asked to pay life tax on their vehicles once again due to the expiry of the term of Hyderabad as the joint capital.

The cab drivers said they already paid life tax on their vehicles in the undivided Andhra Pradesh and that imposing the tax again would result in huge financial loss to them.

A section of cab drivers from Telangana have been urging the Transport Department to stop the "illegal" plying of taxis registered in states other than Telangana. They claimed that these taxis were affecting their business.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Hazrat Syed Naseruddin Chishty, head of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC) and lineal descendant of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty appealed to Muslims not to be misled on the Delhi Waqf Act issue by vested interests.

Hazrat Syed Naseruddin Chishty said, "The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council welcomes the decision of the government. We want a Dargah Board to be formed in it. We have talked to NSA Ajit Doval regarding this and are hoping that he will convey our views to the Centre and appropriate amendments will be made to it."

"We have full faith in the central and state governments that they will work with complete transparency in this matter. No one should have any objection to this, we hope that the draft of the Waqf Amendment Bill will be transparent and strong," he said while talking to reporters at the India Islamic Cultural Center in New Delhi.

He said, "Those who are opposing this Bill are trying to divide society based on religion by spreading false propaganda. They are behaving irresponsibly. It would be better if instead of opposing, they help the government by giving good suggestions. So that the government can make a good law through this Bill and the Muslim society can be uplifted by making proper use of the valuable lands of Waqf."

Syed Naseruddin Chishty said that after examining the draft, they would submit their recommendations and proposals related to the interests of the Dargah.

"Because the existing law has failed to make clear provisions regarding the status of the Dargah, its customs and traditions," he stated.

The Modi government is reportedly preparing to introduce a Bill in Parliament proposing 40 amendments to the Waqf Act.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The toll fee collection on national highways under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) was Rs 54,811.13 crore in the fiscal 2023-24, the Parliament was informed on Wednesday.

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, said in a reply in the Rajya Sabha that the expected increase in user fee collection solely due to the revision in fee rates at 2.55 per cent on the previous collection amount was Rs 1,400 crore.

"During the financial year 2023-24, total fee collection at national highway fee plaza operational under NHAI was Rs 54,811.13 crore," Minister Gadkari informed.

During the last five years, user fee rates have been revised five times and the average increase in user fee rates is 2.55 per cent from FY 2023-24.

Meanwhile, the Ministry spent Rs 6,523 crore towards maintenance of NHs during the last year.

Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) is installed in high traffic density National Highways and National Expressways such as Delhi-Meerut Expressway, Trans-Haryana, Eastern Peripheral Expressway, etc. by the NHAI.

"In new NH projects on high-density and high-speed corridors of NHAI, installation of ATMS is generally a part of the project. Further, ATMS is also implemented as standalone projects in already constructed important corridors," informed the minister.

On the total number of road accidents and fatalities on National Highways (including Expressways), the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways said that in 2022, there were 4,61,312 accidents on all roads (including 1,51,997 on national highways), while 1,68,491 people succumbed to death (including 61,038 on NHs) in that year.

The Ministry said it has formulated a multi-pronged strategy to address the issue of road safety based on education, engineering (both of roads and vehicles), enforcement and emergency care.

NHAI has also successfully planted 402.28 lakh plants to date along the national highways as per the Green Highways Policy 2015.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : A special NIA court in Kolkata has sentenced two men to rigorous imprisonment in a 2019 fake Indian currency seizure case in West Bengal's Malda district.

With this, the total number of persons convicted so far in the case since last month has risen to three.

According to a statement of the National Investigation Agency (NAI), Asim Sarkar of Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh) has been sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment, and his co-accused, Aladu a.k.a. Matur of Malda district, will be in jail for five years.

On July 23, the NIA officials informed that a third accused in the same case, Faijul S.K., was sentenced by the same court to five years of rigorous imprisonment.

As per the NIA statement issued on Wednesday, Sarkar and Aladu, who have been held culpable under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, have also been imposed financial penalties of Rs 10,000 and Rs 5,000 respectively, failing the payment of which will lead to another three years of rigorous imprisonment for both of them.

The same special court had also imposed a similar financial penalty of Rs 5,000 on Faijul S.K. failing the payment which will lead to another three years of rigorous imprisonment for him. Faijul is a resident of the Gopalganj area in the Malda district.

"Trial against an absconding Bangladeshi national, identified as Abdul Rahim, is continuing in the case relating to seizure of High-Quality Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence in September 2019," the NIA statement read.

According to it, on September 16, 2019, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) recovered 99 fake notes in the denomination of Rs 2,000 and two in the denomination of Rs 500, totalling Rs 1,99,000 in face value.

"NIA investigation had found that all the four accused were involved in the criminal conspiracy to procure and circulate FICN with the intention to use it as genuine for unlawful gain," the statement read.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics in the 50 kg category has left the country shell-shocked. Bollywood, too, is in utter dismay with the news.

Several members of the Hindi film fraternity are expressing their displeasure against the decision and are also supporting the Indian wrestler with words of praise.

Actress Taapsee Pannu, who has 'Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba' and 'Khel Khel Mein' lined up for the release, took to the Stories section of her Instagram on Wednesday, and wrote: "This is heartbreaking but honestly, this woman has made her mark beyond gold by now."

Actress Sonakshi Sinha, who tied the nuptial knot in June this year, expressed her shock as she wrote in her Instagram Story: "Unbelievable!! I can't imagine how you're feeling right now, and don't know what to say except (that) you were, are and always will be a champion."

Actress Swara Bhasker took to her X and wrote: "Who believes this 100 grams overweight story??? (Heartbreak emoji)."

Huma Qureshi wrote on X: "Please tell me something can be done (see-no-evil monkey emoji). They have to let her fight @Phogat_Vinesh @Olympics @OGQ_India @IndianOlympians."

Actor-director Farhan Akhtar, who is coming up with 'Don 3', took to his Instagram, and shared a picture of Vinesh. The son of legendary screenwriter Javed Akhtar, Farhan penned a long note in the caption, sending strength to Vinesh.

He wrote: "Dear @vineshphogat .. One can only try and imagine how devastated you must be but still not fully understand. Heartbroken for you that the quest ended like this. But please know that we are all very proud of you and all you have done for the sport. You will always be a champion and an inspiration to millions. Keep your chin up."

Vinesh, who earlier defeated Japanese wrestler Yui Susaki, has been disqualified from further competition after she was found to be 100 grams over 50 kg category.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : AAP MP Raghav Chadha made a heartfelt appeal to the Central government on Wednesday, urging it to hold talks with Pakistan to establish a safe corridor to Shri Nankana Sahib.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Chadha said, "I believe that all Members of Parliament will support the issue that I am raising today. It is because this issue is connected to the faith of crores of Punjabis."

Recalling the Partition, he said that along with the country, Punjab was also divided into two -- one in Pakistan and the other in India.

"During that time, many Punjabi families, including mine, lost their loved ones. But above all, we lost Gurdwara Sahib. Today, there are many Gurdwaras, including Shri Kartarpur Sahib, Shri Panja Sahib, and Shri Nakana Sahib, in Pakistan," Chadha said.

Gurdwara Shri Nakana Sahib is the birthplace of the first Sikh guru, Shri Guru Nanak Dev.

Drawing parallels to the Shri Kartarpur Sahib corridor, which he said has "united people in faith," the Rajya Sabha MP expressed hope that this new corridor would "fulfil the shared dreams and spiritual connections" of devotees.

Chadha said, "I am raising three small demands today. First, just like a Shri Kartarpur Sahib corridor was established for devotees' safe pilgrimage, governments of both countries should make a similar corridor for Shri Nankana Sahib for the safe travel of pilgrims."

Raising the second demand, Chadha stressed the simplification of travel procedures.

He said, "The procedure to visit Shri Nankana Sahib should be simplified, without complicated visa and passport processes, and cumbersome forms. Also, no fee should be charged from the devotees."

"From the Attari Wagah Border in Amritsar to Shri Nankana Sahib in Pakistan, the distance is 104 km, which should be turned into a safe passage by the governments of both countries," Chadha said, urging the Centre to hold talks with Pakistan regarding the same.

Emphasising the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, who dedicated his life to spreading messages of peace, love, and brotherhood, Chadha also highlighted the importance of this corridor for Sikhs.
United Nations, Aug 7 : A UN humanitarian official said 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 on Tuesday that, the shipment, including essential medicines, nutritional supplies, water purification tablets, and soap, awaits the approvals and security assurances needed before it can be transported, Xinhua news agency reported.

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 prioritise 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.
Tripoli, Aug 7 : The Libyan Foreign Ministry and the EU Border Assistance Mission in Libya (EUBAM) discussed the second half of the mission's 7th mandate on bolstering Libya's capabilities in protecting its borders.

At the meeting on Tuesday, 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, Xinhua news agency reported.

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 organised 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.
Colombo, Aug 7 : Namal Rajapaksa, the eldest son of former President and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, entered Sri Lanka's Presidential election race on Wednesday.

The name of 38-year-old lawmaker, who has been in the Parliament since 2010, was finalised after weeks of deliberation on the possible Presidential candidate from Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), the party formed by the family.

Namal, appointed as party's National Organiser in March, enters the race as SLPP is going through a major crisis, with nearly 80 per cent of its MPs, including those holding ministerial posts in the current government, pledging their support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe's candidacy.

Mahinda Rajapaksa became the country's President in 2005 and ruled the country till 2015. In 2019, he became the Prime Minister as his younger brother Gotabaya was elected as the island nation's President.

Gotabaya, held responsible for the economic crisis, was forced to flee the country in 2022. Amidst widespread public agitation over the unprecedented economic crisis and the burning down of their houses, others in the Rajapaksas family also went into hiding.

Gotabaya invited Wickremesinghe to take over the country with the support of nearly 60 per cent SLPP majority in the parliament as Rajapaksas once again joined the ruling government.

Having gradually controlled the economic crisis, Wickremesinghe asked SLPP to support him in the Presidential Election but the Rajapaksas accused the President of dividing their party and denied any support.

-- IANS

sfl/as
Sanaa, Aug 7 : The US-British coalition carried out two airstrikes on Yemen's southwestern province of Taiz, Houthi-run al-Masirah TV reported.

The coalition has yet to confirm the attacks, and there were no immediate reports of casualties, Xinhua news agency reported, quoting al-Masirah.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command said on Tuesday it had destroyed a Houthi drone and two anti-ship ballistic missiles launched from Yemen over the Red Sea in the past 24 hours.

The Houthis have targeted ships in the Red Sea since last November in a show of solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The US-British naval coalition has responded with airstrikes and missile attacks against Houthi targets since January.
This aerial photo taken on June 28, 2024 shows the view of the National Maritime Museum of China in the Binhai New Area of north China's Tianjin. (Xinhua/Li Ran)

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 aggressive 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.

Editor: GSY
Gurugram, Aug 7 : The Gurugram administration on Wednesday directed the residents of Tower J of the Chintels Paradiso Sector-109 condominium to vacate the tower within 15 days or else the Disaster Management Act would come into force.

The Act would empower authorities to forcibly vacate the buildings.

"The Tower J residents after vacating their flats must handed over to the Chintels builder," the orders said.

On January 5, 2024, the administration declared Tower J of the Chintels Paradiso Sector-109 condominium unsafe.

In a report, IIT-Delhi declared Towers D, E F G, H and J are unsafe to live in. Towers D, E, F, G and H of the housing society have already been vacated.

DTP (E) Gurugram has been appointed as the nodal officer and duty magistrate to monitor the orders.

It has also been said in the orders that the help of the police force can also be taken to comply with the orders.

The orders said that the matter of payment of compensation to the residents/flat owners by the developer is being dealt with separately by the SIT constituted in this matter.

The builder has been directed to settle all the claims of all the allottees of Tower J in a time-bound manner.

"If anyone is found guilty of violating the orders issued, then action will be taken under Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code 2023 and Sections 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other legal provisions applicable," read the orders.

On February 10, 2022, six floors of Tower D collapsed partially, killing two residents. There are nine towers in Chintels; Six of these have been declared unsafe so far  D, E, F, G H and J.

The district administration on the recommendations of IIT Delhi declared these towers unsafe. In January this year, the district administration declared towers E F G H and J unsafe and a structural audit by IIT Delhi directed residents to vacate the buildings.

"These towers are unsafe and any unwanted incident can take place anytime. The builder would pay for the relocation of the residents. We cannot let people risk their lives," said a senior district administration official requesting anonymity.
Laos, 7 Aug : The Indian Embassy in Laos on Wednesday said that it has rescued and repatriated 14 Indian youngsters from cyber-scam centres operating in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the Bokeo province of the Southeast Asian country.

"Our officials work tirelessly and closely with Lao authorities to ensure their safe return back to India. 548 Indian youth rescued so far," the Embassy said in a post on X while revealing yet another instance of Indian nationals being lured for employment through fake job offers.

In May, the Embassy had successfully rescued and repatriated 13 Indians, including seven Odiya workers from a wood factory in Attapeu province and six Indian youngsters from the Golden Triangle SEZ.

Stating that ensuring the safety and well-being of Indians remains its top priority, the Embassy has been issuing repeated warnings and advisories for Indian workers coming to Laos to not get duped by fake or illegal job offers.

The Embassy had detailed instances wherein Indian nationals were lured for employment through Thailand to Laos.

"These fake jobs are for posts such as 'Digital Sales and Marketing Executives' or 'Customer Support Service' by dubious companies involved in call-centre scams and crypto-currency fraud in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos. Agents in places such as Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore and India associated with these firms are recruiting Indian nationals by taking a simple interview and the typing test, and are offering high salaries, hotel bookings along with return air tickets and visa facilitation," the advisory stated.

It added that victims are illegally taken across the border into Laos from Thailand and held captive to work in the Golden Triangle SEZ in Laos under harsh and restrictive conditions.

"At times, they are taken hostages by criminal syndicates indulging in illegal activities and forced to work in strenuous conditions under constant physical and mental torture. In some other cases, Indian workers have been brought to Laos to work in other regions of Laos in low-cost jobs such as mining, wood factories, etc. In most cases, their handlers exploit them and endanger them in illegal work," the advisory mentioned.

Advising Indian nationals to not get enticed and entrapped in fraudulent or exploitative job offers, the Embassy requested them to exercise extreme caution and verify the antecedents of recruiting agents as well as any company before taking up any job offer in Laos.

"Visa on Arrival in Thailand or Laos does not permit employment and the Lao authorities do not issue work permits to Indian nationals coming to Laos on such visas. Please note that those convicted of human trafficking crimes have been sentenced up to 18 years in prison in Laos," the advisory warned.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : Veteran Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan, who was recently seen in the blockbuster movie 'Kalki 2898 AD', has said that he won't ever be able to repay for the kind of adulation that he has received from the audience.

On Wednesday, the actor took to his X and shared pictures from his fan meet outside his home Jalsa, in Juhu area of Mumbai.

In the pictures, the senior actor can be seen wearing a hoodie which he paired with black pants and headgear.

He wrote: "This love shall remain a huge debt that I can never repay."

Big B's career spans close to six decades in Indian cinema and he has given successive blockbusters during the peak of his career after he took away the stardom from Rajesh Khanna. The actor, however, witnessed a slump in the 1990s when his production company ABCL went into debt.

Big B wanted to bring in a new style of filmmaking in India, closely resembling modern filmmaking backed by corporations and studios. However, it didn't click back then.

ABCL even organised the 1996 edition of the beauty pageant Miss World, which returned to India after 28 years. The event saw many protests across the country with one person reportedly dying by self immolation during the protest. Owing to the protests across the country, ABCL faced significant financial losses in organising the event.

The company went into heavy debt as Big B had to pay off more than Rs 100 crore back in the 1990s.

That's when he said yes to the quiz-based reality television show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'. The decision was motivated by the pressure to pay off the debts. 'KBC' released to a thumping positive response from the audience as Big B reached every Indian household.

He reclaimed his superstardom and the medium of television helped him in that at a time when the silver screen had turned its back on him.

Today, the megastar is considered one of the biggest cinematic forces of not just Hindi but Indian cinema altogether.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Gurugram, Aug 7 : The Gurugram administration on Wednesday directed the residents of Tower J of the Chintels Paradiso Sector-109 condominium to vacate the tower within 15 days or else the Disaster Management Act would come into force.

The Act would empower authorities to forcibly vacate the buildings.

The order said that the residents of Tower J, after vacating, should hand them over to the Chintels builder," the orders said.

On January 5, 2024, the administration declared Tower J of the Chintels Paradiso Sector-109 condominium unsafe.

In a report, IIT-Delhi declared Towers D, E F G, H and J are unsafe to live in. Towers D, E, F, G and H of the housing society have already been vacated.

DTP (E) Gurugram has been appointed as the nodal officer and duty magistrate to monitor the orders.

The order added that the help of the police force can also be taken to comply with the administration orders.

"The matter of payment of compensation to the residents/flat owners by the developer is being dealt with separately by the SIT constituted," the order said.

The builder has been directed to settle all the claims of all the allottees of Tower J in a time-bound manner.

"If anyone is found guilty of violating the orders issued, then action will be taken under Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code 2023 and Sections 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other legal provisions applicable," read the orders.

On February 10, 2022, six floors of Tower D collapsed partially, killing two residents. There are nine towers in Chintels; Six of these have been declared unsafe so far  D, E, F, G H and J.

The district administration on the recommendations of IIT Delhi declared these towers unsafe. In January this year, the district administration declared towers E F G H and J unsafe and a structural audit by IIT Delhi directed residents to vacate the buildings.

"These towers are unsafe and any unwanted incident can take place anytime. The builder would pay for the relocation of the residents. We cannot let people risk their lives," said a senior district administration official requesting anonymity.
Hyderabad, Aug 7 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President, KT Rama Rao on Wednesday warned of legal action against some media outlets giving false news about the party.

His warning came a day after a Telugu news channel reported that BRS would soon merge with the BJP as the BRS leadership had finalised a deal for this.

KTR, as Rama Rao is popularly known, took to X to rubbish the reports and issue a warning.

"To those spreading baseless rumours with hidden agendas, let this be your final warning. Publish a rejoinder to your malicious lies against the BRS, or face legal action," he said.

"The BRS will continue to serve the people of Telangana as it has been for over two decades. Stop spreading baseless rumours. We fall, we rise, and we fight solely for Telangana! We will never bow down. Not now, not ever! Jai Telangana!," he posted.

He claimed the journey of BRS for 24 years had been of resilience and devotion.

"24 Years of Resilience and Devotion! Against Hundreds of Saboteurs, Standing up Against Thousands of Malicious Propagandists & Schemes! For 24 Years! And yet, we prevailed. We fought tirelessly, and we achieved and built a state that has become a beacon of progress and pride. A state that others aspire to emulate. Because millions of hearts beat together for one identity and emotion Telangana!," he said in the post.

There have been reports in a section of media for the last few weeks that BRS was planning a merger with the BJP. It was reported that since BRS lost power in the state and also drew a blank in Lok Sabha elections the leadership was seriously considering a merger or an alliance with the BJP.

It was also claimed that BRS chief and former chief minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao was considering a merger or alliance to save his daughter K. Kavitha, who is in judicial custody in the Delhi excise policy case.

Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy had also claimed that BRS leaders KTR and Harish Rao were recently in Delhi to discuss a deal with the BJP leadership.
La Paz, Aug 7 : Bolivian President Luis Arce proposed holding a referendum on presidential re-election, distribution of seats in the Legislative Assembly (Congress) and fuel subsidies.

"Difficult moments require firm, mature, thoughtful decisions and human beings who do not falter in the face of adversity," the president on Tuesday said in a speech marking the 199th anniversary of Bolivia's independence, in Sucre, a city in southern Chuquisaca department, Xinhua news agency reported.

Issues having to do with fuel supply and a shortage of dollars "are being used politically by some groups to create unrest," said Arce, adding he would rather see the people decide "whether or not we maintain the subsidy" for hydrocarbons.

Another issue that could be put to a vote is the distribution of seats in the Legislative Assembly, currently made up of 36 senators and 130 deputies.

"I am convinced that the wisdom of the people will be the guarantee that allows us to overcome the obstacles that we now face and that without a doubt we will overcome together facing the Bicentennial," said Arce.
Jammu, Aug 7 : A seek and destroy operation (SADO) by the security forces continued on Wednesday in J&K's Udhampur district where terrorists were spotted the previous day and briefly engaged.

Jammu, Aug 7 (IANS) A seek and destroy operation (SADO) by the security forces continued on Wednesday in J&Kas Udhampur district where terrorists were spotted the previous day and briefly engaged.

"Additional reinforcements have been rushed to the area. Massive joint search operation by police, army, and the Central Reserve Police force (CRPF) is underway in the Pathi Nalla Khaned area of Basantgarh where brief contact was established with a group of terrorists late Tuesday," an official said.

"The terrorists were believed to be still hiding in the forest area and more reinforcements were rushed in the morning to expand the cordon to neutralise them," the official added.

Meanwhile, security forces also launched a cordon and search operation in the Diyar Gala forest in the Kalakote area of Rajouri district following information about the movement of two terrorists, one of whom was reported to be injured. The terrorist is believed to have been injured in a recent encounter with security forces in the Gunda village, but had managed to escape. The combing operation is underway to trace the two terrorists noticed in the forested area, officials added.

After a group of 40-50 foreign mercenary terrorists were reported to be operating in the hilly districts of the Jammu region, security forces are launching aggressive operations to eradicate terrorism from these areas. Reported to be responsible for carrying out hit-and-run ambushes against the army, the terrorists are believed to have withdrawn into the dense forests after carrying out sly attacks, both on security forces as well as civilians.

The Army has deployed over 4,000 highly trained soldiers including the elite Para Commandos and those trained in mountain warfare in the mountainous areas of Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Kathua, Reasi and Udhampur to eliminate the hiding terrorists. Assam Rifles units are also slated to be inducted in the area to tackle the terrorists given their expertise.
Vladivostok, Aug 7 : Two people were confirmed dead after a light aircraft that went missing in Russia's far eastern Primorye Territory was found crashed, local media reported on Wednesday.

"Information was received from the Shkotovsky municipal district's unified duty dispatch service that the crash site was located two kilometers from the village of Steklyanukha. Both the pilot and the passenger have died. Further information is being clarified," Russian's RIA Novosti news agency reported, citing local authorities.

The Bristell RGRA-5500G light-engine aircraft lost communication Tuesday near Mount Lysaya, approximately 30 kilometers from the Novorossiya landing site in the Primorye Territory, Xinhua news agency reported quoting RIA Novosti.

The plane was en route from the Pushtisty landing site in the Sakhalin region to the Novorossiya landing site.

A criminal investigation has been launched.
Agartala/Shillong, Aug 7 : Amid the continuing chaos and countrywide violence, attackers did not spare the statue and photographs of iconic personalities of India besides the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) in Dhaka, according to reports.

According to media reports and videos circulated on social media, the attackers tore down a life-size photo of Tripura's erstwhile king Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur in Comilla and vandalised the statue of U. Tirot Sing, a freedom fighter from Meghalaya's Khasi Hills, in Dhaka, leading to widespread condemnation from several quarters in the northeastern states.

His statue was put up in Dhaka many years ago.

The attackers, according to the videos, burnt down and destroyed a large portion of the IGCC, inaugurated in March 2010 to promote bilateral cultural ties between India and Bangladesh by organising seminars, workshops and various cultural events.

Run by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, the IGCC had a library with over 21,000 books.

Writer and political commentator Tapas Dey said that there were many memorials and assets, some of which existed in Bangladesh's Comilla, Brahmanbaria and Sylhet but over the years these were either destroyed or encroached.

"I have learnt in the recent violence the remaining memorials, assets and proof, which showcased princely Tripura's existence in Bangladesh, were destroyed by the attackers. Full details are not yet available to us at the moment," Dey, who is very close to Tripura's erstwhile royal family, told IANS.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, many people, the BJP, the National People's Party (NPP), which dominates the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government, separately condemned the destruction of the statue of the Meghalaya braveheart.

In view of the recent developments in Bangladesh, the future of many vital projects associated with the northeastern states has become uncertain.

(Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted atsujit.c@ians.in)
Kolkata, Aug 7 : A major tragedy was averted on Wednesday after a cafe in South Kolkata was reportedly severely damaged by a gas cylinder blast.

Fortunately, the gas cylinder explosion took place just after the cafe at Jodhpur Park was opened and no customer had arrived there at that time.

However, an employee of the cafe identified as Chandrakuamr Gurung was injured in the fire because of the blast and he has been admitted to a local hospital for treatment.

The local people said that the entire locality was rocked by the sound of the blast on Wednesday afternoon. The impact of the blast was so great that the shutter of the cafe was totally blown off and the belongings inside got scattered here and there severely damaged.

When the locals reached the spot, they saw fire pockets at different places of the cafe. The police and fire services department were informed and they immediately reached the spot.

The fire pockets were doused soon, following which the cops and the fire services department officials entered the cafe.

According to them, although the exact reason behind the blast could be ascertained only after a detailed investigation into the matter, preliminary findings suggest that it was because of the blast of a cooking gas cylinder that was stocked inside.

A fire services department official said that a reason for the blast could be the leaking of gas from any cylinder that started since the cafe was closed on Tuesday night. The gas leak continued and somehow it came in contact with any flame after the cafe was opened on Wednesday morning resulting in the explosion, he added.

He admitted that the impact of the blast could have been even more serious, had it taken place during the regular hours with customers present there.
Giant panda Qing Hua enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Twin giant pandas Qing Hua and Qing Lu are pictured at a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qing Lu enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qing Hua enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Twin giant pandas Qing Hua and Qing Lu are pictured at a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qiao Yue enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qiao Yue enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qing Hua is pictured at a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qiao Yue enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Twin giant pandas Qing Hua and Qing Lu are pictured at a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qing Hua enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Giant panda Qiao Yue enjoys a birthday treat at Locajoy animal theme park in Yongchuan district of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, Aug. 6, 2024. A special event was held to celebrate the birthdays of 3-year-old twin pandas Qing Hua, Qing Lu and 6-year-old panda Qiao Yue here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

Editor: JYZ
Vientiane, Aug 7 : The seventh meeting of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Advisory Council on Dangerous Drugs (AIPACODD) kicked off on Wednesday, focusing on strengthening the role of parliaments in addressing the drug matters.

The two-day meeting will conclude on Thursday, Xinhua news agency reported.

The meeting was chaired by Vice President of the Laos National Assembly Khambay Damlath, and attended by representatives from the AIPA member countries, Lao National Radio reported on Wednesday.

During the meeting, Khambay expressed appreciation for the efforts of AIPA member states in preventing, suppressing, controlling, and addressing drug crimes.

According to Khambay, the drug problem was put on the national agenda as a priority task for the Laos government in 2021.
Koppal : , Aug 7 (IANS) Karnataka Home Minister, G Parameshwara, on Wednesday announced Rs 50 lakh compensation for the family of a police Sub-Inspector Parashurama who was found dead at his home in Yadgir city.

The HM, however, ruled out the possibility of handing over the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Speaking to reporters after visiting the residence of the deceased Dalit police officer in Somanal Village in Koppal District on Wednesday, HM Parameshwara stated that the government has considered the case seriously.

"We will provide a job for the SI's wife. She had asked for a job at the Raichur Agriculture University or Gulbarga Electricity Supply Company (GESCOM). I will speak to CM Siddaramaiah regarding providing employment. We will provide compensation of Rs 50 lakh from the Home Department," Parameshwara stated.

Allegations of mental harassment by seeking money for a posting have been made against a Congress MLA and his son.

An enquiry has been ordered and a probe is on.

"I ordered a probe by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on the day the allegations cropped up. We have fixed a time-frame of two years before a police officer is transferred," Parameshwara maintained.

When asked about the BJP's demand for a CBI probe into the matter, he asserted, "I need not learn from the Opposition. The case won't be handed over to the CBI. It is not a fit case for the CBI probe. We will strive to give justice to the family of the SI. If they do not get justice, we will see about that."

"I don't know how Parashurama got transferred within seven months. The CID report will reveal facts about his early transfer. There was no delay in booking of an FIR by the police," Parameshwara stated.

"An investigation has been launched in this regard. All action will be initiated to prevent corruption and some time is needed for this. If specific names are given with proof of indulgence in the transfer mafia, the investigation could be taken up," he stated.

The suspicious death of the 35-year-old SI on August 3 at his residence has stirred a major controversy in Karnataka as his family has alleged mental torture by a local MLA.

The family alleged that Parashurama had given Rs 30 lakh for a posting at the Yadgir city police station to the MLA.

However, before he completed one year, Parashurama was transferred to the cybercrime police station.

The MLA had allegedly demanded Rs 30 lakh more from the SI to allow him to continue his posting at the Yadgir city police station.

The deceased officer's wife Shwetha has lodged a police complaint against MLA Channareddy Patil Tunnur and his son Pampanna Gouda, holding them responsible for the death of her husband.
Kathmandu, Aug 7 : Four Chinese nationals were killed after a helicopter crashed in Nepal's Nuwakot district on Wednesday afternoon, the Chinese Embassy in Nepal confirmed.

"The helicopter belonging to Air Dynasty has crashed. We have found four dead bodies," Tilak Bharati, spokesperson for the district police, told Xinhua news agency.

He said the helicopter was flying from Kathmandu to Syafrubesi in Rasuwa district when it went down in Nuwakot's Shivapuri. The Chinese Embassy confirmed that the four passengers onboard were Chinese nationals, Xinhua news agency reported.

The helicopter lost contact with the control tower in Kathmandu three minutes after taking off, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal said in a statement, noting that it crashed at 13:54 local time.

Nepali Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has expressed his sadness over the incident.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Amid the Middle East's gradual slide into a wider conflict, three incidents are telling - a ceasefire proposal announced by the leader of a superpower is gradually undermined and soon vanishes from discourse, a ceasefire negotiator is assassinated in a provocative gambit, and a hardliner is elevated to replace him. Does diplomacy have a future in resolving conflict in the region?

Exactly ten months into the outbreak of conflict in Gaza following the audacious Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, the violence continues unabated and hopes of a negotiated solution are fast receding amid a raft of escalatory measures by all sides.

Let's take the three incidents alluded to above in order.

On May 31, US President Joe Biden, amid criticism of the mounting civilian death toll in the Israeli retaliation, announced that Israel has agreed to a proposal that would lead to a "lasting" ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

He termed it "a comprehensive new proposal", which would be "a roadmap to an enduring ceasefire", and unfold in three phases - the six-week first stage, which would comprise "a full and complete ceasefire", the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza, a number of Israeli captives  especially the women and the elderly  released in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and flow of humanitarian aid in the beleaguered enclave.

The second phase was to comprise the release of "all remaining living" Israeli hostages, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and a permanent "cessation of hostilities".

The final phase was a reconstruction plan for Gaza and the return of remains of any captives killed, Biden said, stressing that if the negotiations from phase one to phase two took more time, the ceasefire would anyway continue.

While Hamas had welcomed the US President's call, Israel's response to what the US President had termed a proposal endorsed by it was scarcely encouraging. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pointedly refrained from admitting his acceptance of the proposal and said the war would continue till "total victory".

Israeli military action in Gaza has only intensified since then and despite a raft of negotiations between the two sides, facilitated by Egypt and Qatar, Biden's ceasefire plan seems consigned to limbo, and the US President engaged in a rare outburst at the Israeli leader this week, as per media reports.

This is indicative of diminishing US leverage over Israel and the Netanyahu government, which has casually ignored all advice - not to attack Rafeh, allow more aid, steps to minimise civilian deaths, etc.

Then came the assassination of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, hours after attending the inauguration of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on July 30 - in another key signal against a negotiated settlement.

While Israel has refrained from taking responsibility, a furious Iranian leadership, across the board, has held it guilty and warned it of "harsh punishment". However, Iran has not acted so far, and seemed focussed, at this time, on building a diplomatic coalition of sorts with Arab nations and some of its allies, notably Russia. On Wednesday, acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani left for Saudi Arabia for the extraordinary meeting of the Executive Committee of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), that Iran had called for in the wake of the assassination.

Iran has purportedly ruled out calls from some European and Arab nations for restraint, contending it is not afraid that its retaliation could spark war as the "provocative" violation of its sovereignty cannot be countenanced. It has also disdained that any action will impact diplomatic relations with the West, saying it has no illusions since the inability of European nations to honour their promises to alleviate sanctions in the wake of the US abrogating the JCPOA.

On a more direct note. the targeting of Haniyeh, considered a pragmatist, if not moderate, and open to political solutions, again seems intended to stymy negotiations. Facilitators, Egypt and Qatar, have already expressed their disinclination to enable talks if negotiators are targeted.

Finally, Hamas has hit back with its own spiritedly defiant move - making its Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar, deemed by Israel the prime planner of the October 7 attack and its top target, the successor to Haniyeh.

While the appointment of Sinwar highlights the group's continued focus on Gaza, the choice of a shadowy leader, ensconced deep in the besieged strip and ostensibly inaccessible, as its political bureau chief, and thus, the chief negotiator, means Hamas also does not set much store on diplomatic solutions.

Against this backdrop, the prospects for a diplomatic solution to the conflict, which threatens to spill over from Gaza and the Israel-Lebanon border to engulf the whole region, appear extremely minimal and inconceivable.

(Vikas Datta can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in)
Chandigarh, Aug 7 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday announced to set up a special counter at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport to facilitate Punjabis, especially NRIs.

He said the government is starting a facilitation centre to enable the people to seek help for their relativesa flights, connecting flights, taxi services, lost luggage facilities or any assistance required at the airport.

Officials said an agreement has been signed between the state government and GMR for setting up the facilitation centre to extend all possible help to NRIs and other passengers at the airport.

This centre will have cars which will be available to help the passengers in local movement at Punjab Bhawan and other nearby places, an official said.

In case of emergency, depending on the availability, some rooms at Punjab Bhawan in Delhi will be made available for the passengers or their relatives.

A round-the-clock helpline number (011-61232182) has been set up for assistance.

Punjabi diaspora is very vibrant and every year they travel to foreign countries in huge numbers, especially to Canada.

Punjabis make up approximately 2.6 per cent of the Canadian population as per the 2021 Canadian Census. The largest Punjabi community in Canada is in Ontario, with 397,867 Punjabis as of 2021 (making up 2.84 per cent of the overall population), while British Columbia is home to 6.41 per cent of the overall population.

Around 85 per cent of South Asians in British Columbia are Punjabi Sikhs, including former premier of British Columbia, Ujjal Dosanjh and leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), MP for Burnaby South, Jagmeet Singh.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Supreme Court on Wednesday granted two weeks to Delhi Police to file its counter-affidavit to the bail plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar in the Swati Maliwal assault case.

New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Wednesday granted two weeks to Delhi Police to file its counter-affidavit to the bail plea moved by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwalas aide Bibhav Kumar in the Swati Maliwal assault case.

A Bench presided over by Justice Surya Kant acceded to adjourn the proceedings after Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju sought more time to file a reply on behalf of the Delhi Police.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Bibhav Kumar, opposed the investigative agencyas request saying that the charge sheet has already been filed before the trial court and disposal of bail should not be prolonged.

Ultimately, the Bench, also comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Ujjal Bhuyan, asked the Delhi Police to file its reply by August 21 in the matter and rejoinder, if any, to be filed before August 24.

The bail plea will be heard next on August 27.

In an earlier hearing, the top court rapped Bibhav Kumar as it heard his bail plea, remarking that the accused did not feel shame in assaulting a young woman.

"We don't want to read it in open court. But once she tells him (Bibhav Kumar) to stop because of this particular physical condition, this man continues. Power has gotten to his head?" the top court said.

Previously, the Delhi High Court rejected Bibhav Kumaras bail plea saying that at this stage, the possibility of tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses cannot be ruled out by the accused.

The Delhi High Court, last week, upheld Bibhav Kumaras arrest and rejected his plea contending that his arrest was conducted in violation of the Supreme Court's guidelines established in the landmark Arnesh Kumar judgment, which outlines the procedures and conditions under which arrests should be made to prevent unnecessary detentions.

Bibhav Kumar was arrested on May 18 in connection with the assault on Maliwal on May 13 and produced late at night before a local court which sent him to five daysa police custody.

Delhi Police registered a case against Bibhav Kumar after he allegedly assaulted Maliwal at the Chief Minister's residence.

The FIR at the Civil Lines police station includes charges under Sections 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 341 (wrongful restraint), 354(B) (assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 509 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) of the Indian Penal Code.
Chennai, Aug 7 : The Indian space agency will celebrate the country's Independence Day by putting into orbit an earth observation satellite (EOS) with its small rocket - Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

Chennai, Aug 7 (IANS) The Indian space agency will celebrate the countryas Independence Day by putting into orbit an earth observation satellite (EOS) with its small rocket a" Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said the SSLVas third and final development flight will be on August 15, 2024 at 9.17 a.m. from the countryas rocket port in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The rocket will carry the microsatellite called EOS-08 weighing about 175.5 kg.

The mission is called SSLV-D3/EOS-08.

According to ISRO, the proposed mission will complete the SSLV Development Project and enable operational missions by Indian industry and the public sector NewSpace India Ltd.

The primary objectives of the EOS-08 mission include designing and developing a microsatellite, creating payload instruments compatible with the microsatellite bus, and incorporating new technologies required for future operational satellites, ISRO said.

Built on the Microsat/IMS-1 bus, EOS-08 carries three payloads: Electro Optical Infrared Payload (EOIR), Global Navigation Satellite System-Reflectometry payload (GNSS-R), and SiC UV Dosimeter.

The EOIR payload is designed to capture images in the Mid-Wave IR (MIR) and Long-Wave IR (LWIR) bands, both during the day and night, for applications such as satellite-based surveillance, disaster monitoring, environmental monitoring, fire detection, volcanic activity observation, and industrial and power plant disaster monitoring.

The GNSS-R payload demonstrates the capability of using GNSS-R-based remote sensing for applications such as ocean surface wind analysis, soil moisture assessment, cryosphere studies over the Himalayan region, flood detection, and inland waterbody detection.

ISRO said the SiC UV Dosimeter monitors UV irradiance at the viewport of the Crew Module in the Gaganyaan Mission and serves as a high-dose alarm sensor for gamma radiation.

EOS-08 marks a significant advancement in satellite mainframe systems such as an Integrated Avionics system, known as the Communication, Baseband, Storage, and Positioning (CBSP) Package, which combines multiple functions into a single, efficient unit.

According to ISRO, the satellite employs a miniaturized design in its Antenna Pointing Mechanisms, capable of achieving a rotational speed of 6 degrees per second and maintaining a pointing accuracy of A1 degree.
Patna, Aug 7 : Bihar BJP on Wednesday asked the Union government to settle the migrant Hindus and deport the Bangladeshi and Rohingya Muslims from the country.

"Indian government should prepare to settle Hindus migrating from Bangladesh and also deport over four crore Bangladeshi and Rohingya Muslims, who are residing in India," Bihar BJP Spokesperson Ajay Alok wrote on X.

He said that the Hindu population constitute around 1.35 crore population in Bangladesh.

Alok emphasised the need for proactive measures in light of the religious persecution faced by Hindus in Bangladesh.

He said that India is surrounded by countries where religious grounds have influenced ways of living and the country will not remain unaffected by these developments.

"I also reassure minorities within India that they should not be worried. Hindus are inherently peaceful but we cannot become the voice of infiltrators," Alok said.

Reacting to Alok's statement, RJD Spokesperson Mritunjay Tiwari criticised the BJP for its discriminatory mindset towards Muslims.

"India is governed by the law and Constitution and not by the wishes of any individual or party. The BJP is viewing the Bangladesh crisis through a religious lens to gain political advantage. Such tactics backfired in the past, such as in the Lok Sabha election where the BJP lost in Ayodhya despite playing the Hindu-Muslim card," Tiwari said.

He stressed the need for careful monitoring and appropriate action regarding the Bangladesh crisis.

Another RJD Spokesperson, Azya Yadav questioned the intent behind Alok's statement, saying if he has demands, he should address them directly to his party and the government instead of posting them on social media.

"Alok's actions appear more about political stunt on a sensitive issue rather than genuine concern for the situation in Bangladesh," Yadav said.
Chennai, Aug 7 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will chair a Cabinet meeting on August 13 ahead of his US visit, to scout investments for the state.

The Cabinet meeting on August 13 will start at 11 am in the Tamil Nadu secretariat and is likely to approve some key reforms to attract investment and generate jobs in the state.

The government is all set to provide avenues to the investors of the US and other countries.

Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is establishing two space parks adjacent to the upcoming spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam.

The Chief Ministeras US visit will begin on August 22 where he will pitch for investments in the space sector, as itas a booming sector.

The Cabinet will also discuss north-east monsoon preparedness. During the 2023 monsoons, many people died due to rain-related incidents and flooding in certain areas of the state.

The state government is also upset with the Central government for not allocating sufficient funds to Tamil Nadu in the recent Union Budget.

In the past three years, M.K. Stalin had met industrialists in several countries like Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia and Spain and invited them to make investments in Tamil Nadu, which he aspired to turn into a aUS $ One Trillion economya by 2030.

In Spain, at an investorsa conclave in Madrid, a Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) worth Rs 3,440 was signed by various companies with the entities in Tamil Nadu in February this year.

Earlier visits to other countries were also useful in convincing industrialists and business persons to see Tamil Nadu as a potential investment destination.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Supreme Court on Wednesday fixed August 28 for hearing on a batch of petitions seeking review of the 2022 judgment in the Vijay Madanlal Choudhary case, which had upheld the ED's powers related to arrest, searches, seizures, and attachment of property, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

A special bench, headed by Justice Surya Kant, agreed to adjourn the hearing on Solicitor General Tushar Mehtaas request.

SG Mehta, the second highest law officer of the Centre, appearing on behalf of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), submitted that the matter was suddenly notified for hearing and he may be allowed some time to prepare and argue the matter.

The matter will now be heard by the bench, also comprising Justices C.T. Ravikumar and Ujjal Bhuyan, on August 28.

In the case of Vijay Madanlal Choudhary & Others vs Union of India & Others, a three-judge bench had turned down the challenge to vires of Section 50 of the PMLA giving power to the ED to summon an accused and record the statement, which is admissible evidence in the court of law.

The 2022 decision rendered by a bench headed by Justice A.M. Khanwilkar (now retired), affirmed the stringent provisions of PMLA in connection with the definition of proceeds of crime, power of arrest, search & seizure, attachment of properties and also the twin bail conditions.

Subsequently, a bench headed by then CJI N.V. Ramana had agreed to review its PMLA judgment for two main concerns -- non-providing of ECIR to the accused at the time of arrest, and negation of presumption of innocence.

A special bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna is dealing with another batch of petitions seeking reconsideration of the 2022 PMLA judgment and its reference to a larger bench.
BEIRUT, Aug. 4 (Xinhua) -- On the fourth anniversary of the devastating Beirut explosion, UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert met with families of the victims on Saturday and called for justice, Lebanon's National News Agency reported.

The families shared their experiences of the unprecedented tragedy that shattered their lives, homes, and communities, said the report, adding that despite their relentless pursuit of truth and accountability over the past four years, their efforts have been in vain, with the investigation into the explosion stalled.

In Hennis-Plasschaert's remarks, the special coordinator echoed the UN secretary-general's call for an impartial, thorough, and transparent investigation to bring truth, justice, and accountability.

A massive explosion rocked the Beirut port on Aug. 4, 2020, killing more than 200 people, wounding over 6,000 others and destroying a big part of the city.

Editor: WRX
Chennai, Aug 7 : Chief Minister MK Stalin, who is slated to leave for the US on August 22 scouting for investments for Tamil Nadu, will chair a Cabinet meeting on August 13.

According to sources in the Tamil Nadu government, the Cabinet will clear some huge investment projects in the state.

The meeting that is scheduled to be held in the Secretariat is likely to approve some key reforms to attract investment and generate jobs in Tamil Nadu.

This will be done so that the state can provide a perfect platform for investors from the US and other countries.

Tamil Nadu held a Global Investorsa Meet (GIM) in January and the state industries minister, TRB Rajaa said that 60 per cent of the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed at the GIM were in advanced stages of implementation.

As many as 631 MoUs were signed, with a commitment of Rs 6.64 lakh crore in investment.

Of this, a manufacturing facility at Thiruporur would be inaugurated in December this year.

It may be noted that Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is establishing two space parks adjacent to the upcoming space port at Kulasekarapattinam.

According to sources, during his US visit, Chief Minister Stalin will be pitching for investments in the space sector as it is booming.

The state has already constituted a nodal agency Guidance Tamil Nadu for bringing in investment. The Stalin government is now planning to open a desk of Guidance Tamil Nadu at Tokyo, Japan.

It may be recalled that Tamil Nadu has around 200 Japanese companies that are into automobile manufacturing, transport equipment, machinery, electric machines and chemicals.

The Cabinet will also deliberate on the north east monsoon preparedness. It may be recalled that during the 2023 monsoons people died due to rain related incidents and flooding.

The state government is also sore at the Union government for not allocating anything for Tamil Nadu in the recent Union Budget.

Sources in the government told IANS that the Cabinet meeting will take up this issue also.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : A Maharashtra cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday approved the ambitious Rs 87,342 crore Wainganga-Nalganga interlinking river project, which aims to enrich agriculture in these areas by creating large-scale irrigation facilities in districts hit by farmer suicides.

The project will irrigate an area of 3.75 lakh hectares and will especially benefit the drought affected areas like Marathwada. About 11.33 lakh people will be benefited.

The project will bring water from the Wainganga from the Godavari sub-basin to the Wainganga reservoir in Buldhana district. For this, 426.52 km of connecting canals will be constructed. The link canal will comprise an open canal, pipeline and tunnels in its route up to the Nalgonda reservoir.

The water will be used for irrigation and drinking and industrial purposes in 15 tehsils from Nagpur, Wardha, Amravati, Yavatmal, Akola and Buldhana districts from the Vidarbha region. A large quantity of water from Gosikhurd, which is currently going waste, will be utilised for linking the reservoirs.

According to the Chief Ministeras Office, 31 storage ponds will be constructed so that water can be used during the Rabi season. A detailed project report was submitted in 2018 through the National Water Development Agency. The Central Water Commission has also approved this project which has been included in the Integrated State Water Plan which was discussed recently at the meeting of the State Water Council. The government proposes to develop solar power generation projects through the canal.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh on Wednesday informed the Rajya Sabha that as many as 131.3 lakh fishermen have been covered under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) of the Centre's Department of Fisheries.

It provides the Group Accidental Insurance scheme wherein the entire insurance premium amount is borne by the Central and state governments, with no contribution from the beneficiary.

Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, commonly known as Lalan Singh, said in a written reply that the insurance coverage provided under the Group Accidental Insurance Scheme (GAIS) includes Rs 5,00,000 against death or permanent total disability and Rs 2,50,000 for permanent partial disability, adding that the scheme also covers hospitalisation expenses in the event of an accident for a sum of Rs 25,000.

He also stated that the government in the year 2018-19, extended the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facility to fishers and fish farmers to meet their working capital requirements.

"As of date, 4,26,666 KCCs have been sanctioned to fishers and fish farmers in all states and UTs," the Union Minister said.

He said that the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, with effect from the financial year 2018-19 is also implementing a scheme namely 'Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF)', which provides concessional finance for the development of various fisheries infrastructure facilities with an interest subvention up to 3 per cent per annum with the repayment period of 12 years inclusive of moratorium of 2 years for repayment of the principal amount.

In a written reply to another question, the Union Minister said that under the PMMSY scheme, during the last four financial years (FY 2020-21 to 2023-24) and current financial year (2024-25) approvals have been given to proposals for fisheries development projects various state governments, union territories and other implementing agencies amounting to Rs 19,670.56 crore with a Central government share of Rs 8,666.28 crore.

The broad activities approved for expansion of the fisheries and aquaculture sector during the above-said period include 29,964 hectares of pond area for inland aquaculture, 4013 Biofloc units, 11995 Nos of Re-circulatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS), 50,710 reservoir cages and 543.7 hectares pens in reservoirs, 1,11,110 units of seaweed rafts and monoline units, 1489 bivalve cultivation units, 720 artificial reef units, 6 Integrated Aquaparks including a Seaweed park, 1040 Feed mill units, 54 fishing harbours and fish landing centres, 586 cold storages, 18 wholesale fish markets, 193 fish retail markets, 6581 fish kiosks, 108 value added enterprise units and 26,188 post-harvest transportation units, the minister added.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Ramchet, a cobbler in Uttar Pradesh, who shot to national fame after his shop was visited by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi last month, met Sultanpur District Magistrate (DM) on Wednesday and apprised her about the problems that he was facing regarding the government's welfare schemes.

Ramchet attended the Janata Darshan programme, organised by Sultanpur DM Kritika Jyotsana.

He was accompanied by a group of Congress leaders, where they sought the DM's attention in ensuring that he receives the benefits of the government's welfare schemes

Later, speaking to mediapersons, Sultanpur unit Congress chief Abhishek Singh Rana said that they informed the DM that Ramchet was not getting the benefits of the government's welfare schemes, and they urged her to make amends for the same.

Ramchet said that he does not have a house under PM Awas Yojana, he is not a beneficiary of government schemes, and moreover, his ration card had also been discontinued a month ago.

He also said that the DM assured him of resolving all his issues within a week.

The District Development officer (DDO) has reportedly been instructed by the DM to resolve Ramchet's problems, within seven days.

DDO Ajay Kumar Pandey said that all issues are being looked into, and necessary action will be taken.

Congress leaders, who accompanied him, told the mediapersons about the cobbler's daily travails and said that if Ramchet's grievances are not addressed within a week, they would begin a demonstration against the authorities.

Notably, Rahul Gandhi paid an unscheduled visit to Ramchet's shop in Vidhayak Nagar on the outskirts of Sultanpur and stitched a shoe for him.

Days after the visit, the cobbler has been receiving offers in lakhs to sell the slipper stitched by the Congress MP but he insists that he would not sell it ever as this has given a new identity to him.

"After meeting Rahul Gandhi, my life has changed. People stop their cars in front of my shop and take selfies with me," he said while recalling the memorable meeting with the Leader of the Opposition.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday issued yet another notice to Sheikh Sirajuddin, the younger brother of suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan, in connection with illegal land grabbing at Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Paragans district.

This was the fifth notice served by the ED to Sirajuddin, who is currently absconding. The central agency has already issued a lookout notice against him.

In the fresh notice issued on Wednesday, Sirajuddin has been asked to be present at EDas office in Salt Lake on the outskirts of Kolkata by the afternoon on August 12.

Shahjahan and another of his younger brothers, Sheikh Alamgir, are already serving judicial custody.

Initially, they were arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) before the ED also took them into custody.

In the course of the investigation, the ED has tracked two corporate firms linked to the multi-crore fish export business of Shahjahan. One of the two entities was registered in the name of Shahjahanas daughter Sheikh Sabina, while the other was registered in the name of Sirajuddin, who was known in Sandeshkhali as a self-proclaimed homeopathy doctor.

The ED also found the proceeds of the fish export business as shown in the books of accounts of these two entities to be bogus, with only a small portion of the entire proceeds shown in the records, while a major portion of the proceeds went to Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates through the hawala route via Bangladesh.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar on Wednesday claimed that Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray hasn't gone to New Delhi for the benefit of Maharashtra but to seek support from the Congress to become the Chief Minister of the state.

Shelar said that the former CM has not gone to the national Capital to seek help and redressal on the issues faced by farmers, women, youth or reservation for Marathas.

"He does not have any state-related issues. Be it employment issue of the youth or farmers being endangered by the heavy rains. Although the state government has extended all possible help, still he could have taken proposals to seek additional help from the Centre.

"But he does not have any relevant documentation, nor meetings, nor discussions about the concerns faced by the people of Maharashtra," claimed Shelar, adding that Thackeray also does not have any agenda for discussions about the issues faced by women in the state.

"When Maratha protestors had staged an agitation in front of his house, he had said that a decision for Maratha reservation must be taken in Delhi. Then why isn't he carrying any proposal on Maratha reservation for discussion to Delhi?" asked Shelar.

He claimed that Thackeray is neither in favour of reservation nor is he in favour of Maharashtra but has gone to Delhi with a "begging bowl" and to "clean the utensils of Congressmen."

"Thackeray hopes to become the chief minister once again. Crown me the chief minister. Allocate more seats for me. Think about my party. These are the issues, the begging bowl with which Uddhav Thackeray has gone to Delhi," alleged Shelar.

Shelar asserted that the Maha Vikas Aghadi will soon split ahead of the Assembly election as its leaders are not ready to answer each others' phones.

"Forget agreement on seat allocation, there is absolutely no consensus on any issue within the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Sanjay Raut was seen dragging Congress' incharge during a press conference now gradually they will be seen punching each other. And hence, we presume that the Maha Vikas Aghadi will split right at the time of allocation of seats," he said.
Paris, Aug 7 : Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president P.T. Usha, contingent's Chief Medical Officer Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, Chef De Mission Gagan Narang and others gathered here on Wednesday to address the situation regarding Vinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympics.

Usha took the time out of her busy schedule to visit the recovering Phogat who spent the entire night trying her best to shake off the 2.7 kg she required to reduce to meet the limit of the 50 kg women's freestyle.

"I am shocked and disappointed. I came here to meet Vinesh; she is physically and medically okay but mentally disappointed. Our support staff were there all night to bring her weight down from 52.7 kg to 50kg. The doctors have not slept and have done their level best for Vinesh," the IOA President told reporters.

Vinesh had defeated Cuban wrestler Yusneylis Guzman Lopez 5-0 in the semifinals and had become the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event at the Olympics. But she failed to meet the weight requirement on Wednesday morning and her disqualification has since resulted in the Cuban replacing the Indian wrestler in the women's 50 kg freestyle final that will take place on Wednesday.

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala provided the media with an explanation of the process of nutrition that takes place for an athlete before a bout and how 'it is a fine balance.'

"It was a calculated restriction of food and water. We involve a lot of excessive sweating which is done with exercise, sauna and steam thereby we achieved the weight cut in the morning. The weight cut causes weakness and energy depletion which is really counterproductive. Hence for participation, we need to restore energy with some amounts of water and energy foods. It is a fine balance," said Dr Pardiwala.

Despite spending the entire night in the hope of losing excessive weight, Phogat is recovering quite well and all her reports came back normal. The 29-year-old was also given IV fluids in an attempt to rehydrate her from the vigorous night she suffered in her bid to make the weight.

"Once she was disqualified then as a precautionary measure we had to rehydrate her. The best way to rehydrate an athlete is through Intravenous (IV) fluids. She started eating and drinking, she is perfectly normal physically and medically. We got her blood tests done as a routine which came back clear," he added.
Auckland, Aug 7 : After wrapping up her State Visit to Fiji - the first-ever by a Head of State from India to the South Pacific nation - President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Auckland late Wednesday, New Zealand time, on the second leg of her three-nation visit.

President Murmu, visiting the country at the invitation of Governor General of New Zealand Dame Cindy Kiro, was received at the Auckland airport by Todd McClay, New Zealand's Minister of agriculture, trade, forestry, hunting and fishing and Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs.

High Commissioner of India Neeta Bhushan was also present on the occasion.

During the State Visit, President Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with Governor General Kiro and meet New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, who visited New Delhi in March, will also make courtesy calls on President Murmu.

"As you know, the Government of New Zealand has put India as a special focus country for their bilateral relations. New Zealand recognises India as a key partner in defence and security and in terms of overall bilateral trade, investment, people-to-people contact, etc. Therefore, this visit will itself be highly significant," said Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), last Friday ahead of President's departure.

With over 8,000 Indian students currently in New Zealand, President Murmu will be addressing an International Education Conference in Wellington, where India is the Guest of Honour.

"This underscores the significance of the educational relationship where New Zealand is looking to work with India and collaborate with our education system and our educational institutions apart from the students that we send there," remarked Secretary Mazumdar.

During her visit, President Murmu is also scheduled to interact with the Indian community and friends of India at a community reception in Auckland.

"As you know, the Indian diaspora there is about 300,000 strong, out of a total population of 5 million. They are very well integrated into New Zealand society and are really a living bridge between the two countries. These warm and friendly ties with New Zealand have seen an uptick in recent years and the visit is expected to give further impetus to the growing relations in a large number of areas," said the MEA Secretary.

After New Zealand, President Murmu will visit Timor-Leste on August 10 at the invitation of President Jose Ramos-Horta. This will be the first-ever Head of State visit from India to Timor-Leste.

The MEA had stated that the State Visit by President Murmu to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor-Leste underscores the importance India attaches to its bilateral relations with these countries and reflects New Delhi's strong focus on the 'Act East' policy which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi 10 years ago at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Around 12.52 lakh women dairy farmers have been covered under the Dairy Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF) out of a total of 42.48 lakh producer members, with significant participation of 30 per cent, Union Minister for Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh told the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

DIDF is an infrastructure development scheme, aimed to modernise milk processing and chilling plants, as well as enhance value addition. The DIDF scheme thereby, aims to benefit milk producers, providing them with an organised market for their produce and employment opportunities in the project areas.

The DIDF scheme has been merged into the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), and its implementation has been extended for the next two years (2024-2026) with an outlay of Rs 29,110.25 crore.

"The indirect benefits to milk producers continue, and now women have the opportunity to establish a dairy industry as individual entrepreneurs under AHIDF. As on date, AHIDF provided assistance to 6 women as individual entrepreneurs, besides the scheme creates an ecosystem for dairy farmers including women to benefits from the other dairy projects (157) financed under AHIDF," Rajiv Ranjan Singh said

In a written reply to another question, the Union Minister said the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying under the National Action Plan had a provision for Assistance to States for Control of Animal Disease (ASCAD), farmers/poultry owners are compensated for the culling of birds as per approved rates based on the demand and action plan of the state/UT with funding pattern of 50:50 between the Centre and state.

The states/union territories are also financially supported for 'Control of Emergent and Exotic Diseases', strengthening of state biological production units and Disease Diagnostic Laboratories including Research & Innovation with Central-State fund sharing pattern.

Moreover, the laboratory support is provided to states/UTs by Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratories (RDDLs), Central Disease Diagnosis Laboratory and National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases, Rajiv Ranjan Singh said.
New Delhi/Hyderabad, Aug 7 : Doctors at ESIC Super Specialty Hospital at Hyderabad's Sanathnagar have successfully conducted its first in-house organ retrieval on a deceased patient, the Ministry of Labour and Employment said on Wednesday.

The organs -- two kidneys and liver -- were retrieved from a 45-year-old brain-dead man on Tuesday, and it helped save the lives of three other patients, the ministry said.

"One recipient of one kidney was a 50-year-old female patient, a beneficiary of ESIC, who had been on dialysis for the last 4 years. The liver and one more kidney were allotted to Osmania General Hospital, where two more recipients got the advantage of the donor's organs and in the process, their lives were also saved," the ministry said.

Dr. Samson, from the hospital's neurosurgery team, counselled and educated the attendants about noble organ donation.

The organs were allotted to ESIC by Jeevandhan -- a cadaver transplantation programme of the Telangana government.

"The in-house cadaver organ retrieval process involved meticulous planning and coordination among teams of doctors, administration, nurses, and paramedicals," the ministry said.

India faces one of the lowest organ donation rates in the world. Just 0.1 per cent of the population donate their organs after death. On the other hand, Western countries have 70-80 per cent deceased organ donation.

Telangana had the highest number of deceased organ donors (194), followed by Tamil Nadu (156), Karnataka (151), Gujarat (148), and Maharashtra (105), as per the 2022 data by the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO).

Telangana also topped the charts in terms of deceased donor transplants in 2022, with 655 transplants, followed by Tamil Nadu (553), Karnataka (435), Gujarat (399), and Maharashtra (305).

Earlier this week, Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare urged health officials to promote deceased organ donation in India.

This will help "meet the huge need for organ donation in the country", Patel said, while also urging officials "to take all steps to ensure that no received organs are wasted before getting transplanted".
A breakdancer competes at a dance battle session during the 2024 Vancouver Street Dance Festival at Robson Square in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 5, 2024. Dancers from around the world showcased various street dance styles through dance battles, performances, and workshops. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A breakdancer competes at a dance battle session during the 2024 Vancouver Street Dance Festival at Robson Square in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 5, 2024. Dancers from around the world showcased various street dance styles through dance battles, performances, and workshops. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A breakdancer competes at a dance battle session during the 2024 Vancouver Street Dance Festival at Robson Square in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 5, 2024. Dancers from around the world showcased various street dance styles through dance battles, performances, and workshops. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Dancers perform during the 2024 Vancouver Street Dance Festival at Robson Square in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 5, 2024. Dancers from around the world showcased various street dance styles through dance battles, performances, and workshops. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A breakdancer competes at a dance battle session during the 2024 Vancouver Street Dance Festival at Robson Square in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 5, 2024. Dancers from around the world showcased various street dance styles through dance battles, performances, and workshops. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A breakdancer competes at a dance battle session during the 2024 Vancouver Street Dance Festival at Robson Square in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 5, 2024. Dancers from around the world showcased various street dance styles through dance battles, performances, and workshops. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

A breakdancer competes at a dance battle session during the 2024 Vancouver Street Dance Festival at Robson Square in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 5, 2024. Dancers from around the world showcased various street dance styles through dance battles, performances, and workshops. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua)

Editor: WXY
Agartala/Shillong, Aug 7 : Amid the continued unrest in Bangladesh, the attackers, according to various reports, did not even spare a statue, and several photographs of iconic Indian personalities besides badly damaging the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) in Dhaka.

According to media reports and several clips circulated on social media, the attackers destroyed a life-size photo of Tripura's erstwhile king Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur in Comilla, besides vandalising a statue of U. Tirot Sing, a freedom fighter from Meghalaya's Khasi Hills, in Dhaka, leading to widespread condemnation from several quarters in the northeastern states.

Bir Bikram ruled the princely state of Tripura from 1923 until his death in 1947.

The attackers also burnt down and destroyed a large portion of IGCC, which was inaugurated in March 2010 to promote cultural ties between India and Bangladesh by organising seminars, workshops, and various cultural events.

Run by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, the IGCC had a library with over 21,000 books.

The IGCC also held regular training courses on various cultural elements including yoga, Hindustani classical music, dance, etc.

Earlier, Tripura's 570 sq miles of moderate plains in Comilla, Noakhali, and Sylhet districts in East Bengal, adjacent to the western part of Tripura, was known as Plain Tripura or Chakla Roshanabad and was part of the princely Tripura Zamindari.

After India's Independence, this Chakla Roshanabad was completely lost as it was included in East Pakistan, or present day Bangladesh.

Tripura shares an 856 km border with Bangladesh.

Writer and political commentator Tapas Dey said that there were many memorials and assets, some of which were in Bangladesh's Comilla, Brahmanbaria, and Sylhet that were either destroyed or encroached upon over the years.

"In the latest violence, the remaining memorials and assets, which showcased princely Tripura's existence in Bangladesh, have been destroyed by the attackers. However, the full details are not yet available with us," Dey, known to be close to Tripura's royal family, told IANS.

Another northeastern state, Meghalaya, which shares a 443 km border with Bangladesh, also shared close links before Bangladesh became a sovereign country in 1971.

Tirot Sing, a freedom fighter known as the 'Hero of the Khasi Hills', led a war against the British against the latter's attempts to take over control of the Khasi Hills in 1829.

He was detained four years later after the Anglo-Khasi War and died in Dhaka Central Jail on July 17, 1835. July 17 is commemorated as 'U Tirot Singh Day' in Meghalaya every year.

A statue of Tirot Sing was kept in Dhaka for many years before it was destroyed by the attackers in the latest violence.

The act has been condemned by many people and entities in Meghalaya, including Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, several intellectuals, and political parties, among others.

(Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujit.c@ians.in)
Agartala, Aug 7 : Border Security Force (BSF) Director General Daljit Singh Chawdhary on Wednesday chaired a high-level meeting here on Wednesday to review border security preparedness, and discuss the ongoing law and order situation in Bangladesh and its implications on the security scenario, officials said.

A BSF spokesman said that the BSF chief, at the meeting at the Tripura Frontier headquarters at Salbagan, on the outskirts of Agartala, applauded the tireless efforts and dedication of the troops in safeguarding the borders.

He also appreciated efforts made to prevent infiltration and trans-border crimes effectively on the India-Bangladesh border by BSF Tripura Frontier personnel.

The BSF chief, accompanied by Additional Director General Ravi Gandhi arrived here on Wednesday on a one-day visit to review the security and operational preparedness of BSF along the India-Bangladesh border.

Tripura Frontier Inspector General Patel Piyush Purusottam Das and other senior officials gave an operational briefing on the frontier to the BSF DG.

Before leaving here for Delhi, Chawdhary also held a separate meeting with state Director General of Police Amitabh Ranjan and Director General of Police, Intelligence, Anurag Dhankar, and discussed various issues pertaining to the state.

The BSF spokesman said that 11 Bangladesh nationals, including a woman, were arrested jointly by its personnel and Tripura Police from two different places in the West Tripura district. The BSF also seized huge drugs and cigarettes worth Rs 70 lakh from Sepahijala and West Tripura districts.

Bangladesh has been wracked by unrest, forcing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and flee the country. The BSF has placed its personnel, all along the 4,096-km-long India-Bangladesh border, on high alert to forestall any eventuality.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 7 : The practice of 'all pass' for 8th and 9th standard students in the state-run schools in Kerala is now history.

On Wednesday the state government ended the 'all pass' for Class 8 and it will be extended to Class 9 from next year.

A senior education official had expressed displeasure at the way the quality of education, especially in the schools of the Kerala government, has deteriorated. Then, Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian said that many students who pass the Class X examination in the state do not know how to read or write.

He added that in the past to get the minimum pass mark of 210 in the Class X examination was difficult, but now itas all pass and any drop in the pass percentage is seen as a reflection of the poor governance of the state government.

Now students in Classes 8 and 9 will have to get at least 30 per cent marks in each subject.
Shimla, Aug 7 : Himachal Pradesh Industry Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan on Wednesday said that if the medical device park in Nalagarh in Solan district was to be developed on the terms of the Central government, the state would not have any benefit.

"The state has taken a major decision and decided to build the medical device park at its own level," Chauhan told the media in an informal interaction here.

He said the park would be built on 66.5 acres, which is 25 per cent of the 265 acres of land acquired for the park. "Apart from this, the remaining land will be given to green industries at market price." He said Rs 30 crore received from the Central government would be returned soon.

In the run to the Assembly elections, the Centre sanctioned a medical devices park, the first in north India, to the state in September 2021 with a grant-in-aid of Rs 100 crore.

Chauhan accused the opposition BJP of "doing politics in the matter of closing the HIMCARE scheme (for cashless treatment) in private hospitals".

"The former Jai Ram Thakur government had empanelled such private hospitals, which did not even have basic facilities, for the HIMCARE scheme. As soon as the government received complaints of fraud in the scheme, the government immediately took action," he said.

Regarding the Ayushman Yojana, he said that the Himachal government's money is also spent on this scheme, as a budget of Rs 85 crore was spent on it, out of which Rs 45 crore was contributed by the Centre and Rs 40 crore by the state government.

On BJP MP Kangana Ranaut's statement on flood relief and restoration work, the minister said: "Kangana is new to politics and she does not know anything about the administrative and governmental system".

"Being a film celebrity, she gives any statement. The Central government gives only that amount of money under disaster, which the state is entitled to. Kangana talking about getting help from the Central government for disaster relief is a childish statement. Every single penny received from the Centre is audited. Yes, it is certain that Kangana will learn politics with time," he added.

--IANS

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Amaravati, Aug 7 : YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday called upon the party's local body representatives from Araku and Paderu segments to ensure party candidate Botsa Satyanarayana's victory in the by-election to Legislative Council from United Visakhapatnam District Local Bodies constituency.

The former chief minister held a meeting with public representatives from the two segments at his camp office here and appealed to them for their continued support and cooperation, emphasising that this election should serve as a lesson for Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

Jagan Mohan Reddy said YSRCP secured a clear majority in the local body elections of the united Visakhapatnam district and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) does not have sufficient numerical strength. He remarked that if the TDP leaders adhered to moral values, they wouldn't contest these elections. He emphasised the importance of values and integrity in politics, stating that even though it is a more challenging path, it is the one that endures.

The former chief minister recalled the 2014 elections when he resisted pressure to make unrealistic promises. He said Chandrababu Naidu made false promises which led to public disillusionment and YSRCP's victory in 2019. He claimed that YSRCP implemented all promises made in 2019. He said for YSRCP, the manifesto is like sacred scriptures.

He alleged that Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu attempted to influence elections through unethical means, including monetary inducements, which degrade the standards of politics, and urged the local representatives and party members to adhere to values and integrity, as these are the principles that will lead to lasting political success.

He called for collective support to ensure the victory of Botsa Satyanarayana, highlighting the unanimous backing from candidates who contested and won. He also condemned the TDP's attempts to buy local body representatives and stressed that such practices should not be entertained. He reiterated his enduring commitment to the tribal areas of Visakhapatnam, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support since the party's inception.

The YSRCP last week announced Botsa Satyanarayana as the candidate for the by-election to the MLC seat, which is scheduled to be held on August 30 to fill the vacancy arising out of the disqualification of Chennuboina Srinivasa Rao.

Srinivasa Rao, whose real name is Vamsi Krishna Yadav, was disqualified as MLC by the Council Chairman in March under the anti-defection law after he quit YSRCP to join Jana Sena Party.

Srinivasa Rao was elected to the Assembly on Jana Sena ticket from Visakhapatnam South constituency in May 13 elections.

One of the seniormost leaders of YSRCP, Botsa Satyanarayana served as the minister for municipal administration and urban development and human resources development in the previous YSRCP government headed by Jagan Mohan Reddy.

In the recent Assembly elections, Satyanarayana suffered defeat from Cheepurupalli constituency in Vizianagaram district at the hands of Telugu Desam Party's K. Kalavenkata Rao.
Chennai, Aug : Tamil Nadu BJP claimed on Wednesday that the DMK government in the state is giving priority to swiftly addressing the concerns of five-star hotels, allowing them to operate liquor bars within 48 hours despite violating rules.

Speaking to mediapersons, senior state BJP leader and party spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad alleged that the same government is neglecting the welfare of students from Madras University.

The BJP leader said that thousands of students who completed their studies in 2023 and 2024 from Madras University are still waiting for their graduation certificates due to the prolonged vacancy in the Vice-Chancellor's position.

Prasad claimed this delay has caused significant consequences, including missed opportunities for higher education, domestic job losses, and visa processing issues for those planning to study abroad.

The absence of a Vice-Chancellor has left the students demotivated and frustrated, raising questions about the government's commitment to public education, he said.

"We urge the government to prioritise the welfare of students and take immediate action to address their concerns. The government's prompt response to the hotel industry's requests while neglecting students' welfare raises concerns about its priorities," Prasad said.

"It is unacceptable that the government creates opportunities for revenue generation through liquor sales while disregarding the future of its educated citizens. We request the Tamil Nadu government and the Honourable Governor to take immediate action -- appoint a Vice-Chancellor for Madras University, issue graduation certificates to the affected students, and address the concerns stemming out of this delay. Together, we can hold the government accountable and ensure a brighter future for the students of Tamil Nadu," he said.
Srinagar, Aug 7 : National Conference President and former J&K Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said his party would not enter into a pre-poll alliance with any party for the upcoming Assembly elections.

"We will not enter into any alliance with any party, totally not," he told reporters here.

Dr Abdullahas statement came on the eve of the full Election Commission of India's (ECI) visit to Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday to review the preparations for the polls.

Led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, the complete ECI team will meet the representatives of political parties to get their feedback on conducting the polls.

The NC chief said the poll panel will talk to the parties and then consult the Centre before finalising the election dates. "Whether the dates are announced or not, the ECI is coming here. They will talk to everyone, then they will consult the Government of India and finalise the dates. They cannot finalise the dates themselves. Today, everything is done by the Government of India, PM (Narendra) Modiji and the Home Minister, Amit Shah."

On the new Haj policy, he said that the government should not interfere in religious issues. aThis government can do anything... This is not a big issue. Why will they stop someone from performing Hajj? People are not going on the governmentas money but on their own. The government has stopped all the Hajj subsidies. How will they stop anyone? If anyone performs the Amarnath Yatra or Badrinath Yatra, can we tell him not to come again? This is a religious issue and the government should not put pressure on religious issues," he added.

On the situation in Bangladesh, Dr Abdullah claimed that India has been left alone as none of its neighbours is its friend anymore. "In Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina was pro-India, but the people there were not pro-India. She ran the affairs till she could. Today, India should be ready to deal with dangers. Today, none of our neighbours is our friend. We are alone, be it Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, or Sri Lanka. The regret is that this big brother has miffed the younger brothers," he claimed.

He said that the need of the hour is the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and "India should fulfil its duty as the big brother".

"India should sit with everyone and discuss their problems, which was the aim of the SAARC. Only then can all our neighbours become our friends."

Dr Abdullah and PDP President and former Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti have been critical of the governmentas policy towards its neighbours. Dr Abdullah said on Tuesday that the only way to get peace and prosperity in J&K is by talking to the neighbour (Pakistan), a stand the Centre has vehemently ruled out.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : Amid the ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) on Wednesday called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure the safety of the Hindu community and their temples, and take up the issue at the UN-level.

In a statement, HJS National Spokesperson Ramesh Shinde also urged the government to grant asylum to the displaced Hindus under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

He cautioned that unless the Centre intervenes promptly, there could be a risk of a situation similar to Pakistan and a potential genocide of the Hindus in Bangladesh, and the anti-government movement has turned into an anti-Hindu stir.

"The violence that started over the issue of reservations in Bangladesh has now reached a tipping point, turning into anarchy. The anti-government movement has now started targeting Hindus, leading to deliberate killings, attacks on Hindu homes, looting of shops, vandalism and arson of temples, rapes, and displacement. This has created a climate of fear among the minority Hindus," said Shinde.

The HJS has put forth certain urgent demands, including strict directives to the Bangladesh Army to halt attacks on Hindu and their properties, temples or idol vandalism, stop atrocities on their women, and relocate them to secure areas with security and compensation for the loss of lives and properties.

Shinde said the government should raise the matter at the UN level and seek a UN delegation visit to Bangladesh, while the displaced Hindues seeking asylum here should be accommodated under the CAA.

He called for measures considering the illegal entry of over around five crore Bangladeshis into India and to curb the possibility of increased infiltration in the wake of the current political upheavals there which could fuel fanatical Jihadi terrorists with support of hidden sympathisers.
Hyderabad, Aug 7 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and World Bank President Ajay Banga decided to prepare a roadmap for partnership in various sectors.

Revanth Reddy, who is currently visiting the US with a delegation, called on the World Bank president in Washington.

The potential areas for partnership being outlined through explorations and deliberations would include initiatives on skills development, urban rejuvenation and reimagination, Net-Zero developments, citizens' healthcare, diagnostics and electronic records, according to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) in Hyderabad.

During the hour-long meeting, it was decided to set up cross-functional team to conceptualise viable projects in each of the areas in an accelerated mode. People, planet, sustainability, health, skills, and jobs were the major themes of the discussions between the two visionary leaders, the CMO said.

The World Bank backing would give a massive fill-up to several of the key visions of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, including the Musi River rejuvenation project, Skill University, Future City, Citizen Healthcare and development of Hyderabad 4.0.

The World Bank president, while expressing delight and optimism about the balanced vision of the Chief Minister for Telangana and Hyderabad, highlighted how the Bank has enjoyed success in generating positive outcomes in the region with several project initiatives earlier.

He also showcased a great interest in backing the vision of creating a Net Zero city.

Revanth Reddy expressed delight after the marquee endorsement of several key initiatives of the state and promised to ensure each project is followed up on mission mode to ensure ambitious impact and outcomes but with the highest transparency.

The Telangana team gave an overview of several other developments that impact the lives and livelihood of citizens, the environment and sustainability in the state.

IT & Industries minister D. Sridhar Babu, Telangana Chief Secretary A. Shanthi Kumari, and other officials including Jayesh Ranjan, Ramakrishna Rao, V. Sheshadri, Vishnu Vardhan Reddy, and Ajith Reddy were present.

World Bank executive director Parameswaran Iyer praised the Telangana government for its holistic, balanced, sustainable and impactful vision keeping state and people first.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday sought a report from the West Bengal government on a petition by a doctor attached to a state-run hospital, accusing the state Health Department of denying him permission for study leave for acquiring a higher degree in medicine.

Acting on the petition by Dr Sirazul Islam, who is currently attached with Maharaja Jitendra Narayan Medical College & Hospital in Cooch Behar district, a single-judge bench of Justice Jay Sengupta directed the state Health Department to submit, in the form of an affidavit, its response within two weeks on why study leave cannot be granted to the petitioner.

The next date of hearing will be fixed after the state government submits its report.

In his petition, the petitioner claimed that he applied for study leave, as per protocol, to pursue a higher degree in the stream of surgery. However, the Health Department denied his plea stating scarcity of doctors as no-objection certificates for study for higher education have already been granted to 489 doctors attached with state-run hospitals during the financial 2023-24.
Jaipur, Aug 7 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said on Wednesday that the state government has pledged to plant seven crore saplings this year under the Mukhyamantri Vriksharopan Maha Abhiyan campaign, which has been inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Addressing the 75th state-level Van Mahotsav at Gadota in Dudu district on the occasion of Hariyali Teej on Wednesday, the Chief Minister said that as many as 50 crore saplings will be planted in the next five years.

The protection and care of the saplings will also be ensured to convert the planted saplings into trees, he said.

"In Rajasthan, many people sacrificed their lives for environment conservation. This is a great example of commitment towards the environment. Van Mahotsav has emerged as a ray of hope for the conservation of trees. The monsoon is the most suitable time for tree plantation because the saplings planted at this time grow quickly," he said.

The Chief Minister also that 'Matri Vans' will be established in every district of the state with the participation of the general public where different species of saplings will be planted.

He also said that 2,000 'Van Mitras' are being appointed to take care of the plants, under which willing retired employees will be given the responsibility as 'guardians'.

Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel also addressed the gathering, among others.

Marking the occasion, CM Sharma inaugurated the 'Hariyalo Rajasthan Abhiyan' by planting a peepal sapling. He also geo-tagged the tree through a mobile application.
Amaravati, Aug 8 : The Andhra Pradesh government has decided to scrap the two-child norm for contesting local body elections in view of the declining fertility rate in the state.

The decision was taken at the meeting of the state Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, on Wednesday.

The Cabinet gave its approval to repeal the amendments made in 1994 to the Andhra Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act 1955 and the Andhra Pradesh Municipalities Act 1965, barring individuals with more than two children from contesting the polls. Individuals with more than two children were barred from contesting in urban local body elections. Although the restriction for Panchayat Raj elections was removed in 2019, it continued to apply to other local bodies.

Information and Public Relations Minister K. Parthsarathi told the media that the Cabinet took the decision while taking note of the declining fertility rate and keeping in view the social and economic needs, population stabilisation, and population balance.

The Cabinet noted that while the national fertility rate is 2.1 per cent, the same in Andhra Pradesh is only 1.5 per cent. Currently, the average male reproductive age in the state is 32.5 years which is likely to go up to 40 by 2047. Similarly, the female reproductive age in the state is now 29 years and this is expected to go up to 38 by 2047. It was noted that the number of people who can contribute to economic development will come down drastically.

It was also revealed that currently 11 per cent of the stateas population is aged above 60 years. This is likely to go up to 19 per cent by 2047. This number at the national level currently stands at 10 per cent and this is likely to increase to 15 per cent by 2015.

In this context, the Cabinet decided to repeal the amendments made in 1994 to bar individuals with more than two children from contesting the polls.

The Cabinet also approved the issuance of new Pattadar passbooks (revenue records) bearing the official emblem of the state and QR codes. These will replace 22 lakh land records distributed by the previous government with then Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddyas picture.

The Cabinet also decided to extend the ban on the Communist Party of India-Maoist and the Revolutionary Democratic Front (RDF) by a year as per the Andhra Pradesh Public Security Act, 1992. It decided to implement a new excise policy from October 1.

The minister said quality liquor would be sold at a low price.
Imphal, Aug 8 : The Manipur Assembly has constituted a 12-member committee comprising Ministers and MLAs of both ruling and opposition parties to study illegal migration in the state.

The committee, headed by Water Resources, and Relief, Disaster Management Minister Awangbow Newmai, who is a Naga Peopleas Front (NPF) MLA, would submit its report within three months.

The committee members include Tribal Affairs and Hills Minister Letpao Haokip, who, along with nine other tribal MLAs, have been boycotting the Assembly session since the ethnic violence broke out in May last year, Public Health Engineering Minister L. Susindro Meitei, Education, Law, and Legislative Affair Minister Basanta Kumar, Hill Areas Committee Chairman Dinganglung Gangmei, and Ibomcha Singh (all BJP), K. Meghachandra Singh, Thokchom Lokeshwar Singh, Surjakumar Okram (all Congress), Md. Abdul Nasir (Janata Dal-United), Keishing Leishiyo (NPF), and Shanti Singh of the National Peopleas Party (NPP).

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, who also holds the home portfolio, told the house that 10,675 illegal immigrants were detected in the state in the last five years. He stated that earlier a committee had been constituted to conduct a verification and identification of illegal Myanmar immigrants in Churachandpur, Chandel, Tengnoupal, Kamjong, and Pherzawl districts.

"Before the ethnic violence broke out on May 3 last year, the Committee detected 2,480 illegal Myanmar immigrants. The Central government has announced that the India-Myanmar Border would be fenced completely. Border fencing work has already started and given importance. A total length of 9.214 km of border fencing has already been completed," he said.
Hyderabad, Aug 8 : The opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has alleged that a Telangana delegation led by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy currently visiting the United States has signed an agreement with a shell company, which the state government has denied.

BRS leaders claimed that Swacch Bio, with which the state government signed an MoU on Tuesday, was incorporated only 15 days ago.

Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary (IT and Industries), who is part of the delegation visiting the US, has dismissed the allegation.

In a video statement, Ranjan said there was no need or cause for any such apprehension as he made it clear that they would never put their professionalism and reputation at stake.

"I know that back in India, Hyderabad in particular, questions are being raised about some of the meetings we have had and what kind of outcomes are we expecting. But let me tell you this... I have been doing this for the last 10 years and I am a thorough professional in all these things. No meeting or interaction will be put on the agenda without us doing absolutely thorough due diligence keeping in my great outcomes for the state," Ranjan said.

The video statement by the official was released to counter the allegations levelled by the BRS leaders.

"Shell companies & Scamgress tactics to fool people in the name of investments... Early this year in Davos, it was Godi and now it's SwachhBio that was incorporated by brother of CM Revanth less than a month ago!!! This is just the beginning. Brace for many more," BRS working president K. T. Rama Rao posted on X.

Another BRS leader, Manne Krishank, said in a post that Harsha Pasunuri seen in a photograph at the MoU signing is 'benami' of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's brother Jagdishwar Reddy.

He posted old pictures of Harsha, Jagdishwar, and Revanth Reddy and alleged that the Rs 1,000 crore announcement was a fraud.

It was announced on Tuesday that Swachh Bio, a lignocellulosic biofuels manufacturing company focused on providing energy solutions for a sustainable future, would establish a 250 KLPD second-generation, cellulosic biofuels plant in Telangana.

The firm announced a capital investment of over Rs 1,000 crore in the first phase, which will provide employment to 250 people at the plant, and 250 people in additional support and other roles.

According to the Chief Minister's Office, Praveen Paripati, Chairperson, Swacch Bio, met Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and Minister for Industries D. Sridhar Babu.
Jaipur, Aug 8 : A high-level delegation team of the Arunachal Pradesh government on a visit to Rajasthan expressed interest in the desert state's 'Jan Aadhaar' scheme based on "one number, one card, one identity" model that aims to deliver the benefits of public welfare schemes to eligible beneficiaries through the DBT mode.

The delegation, led by Arunachal Pradesh's Planning and Investment Department Secretary Rajendra Sharma, met Rajasthan's Administrative Secretary (Planning) Naveen Jain and appreciated the Rajasthan model of Jan Aadhaar and sought information on it, a statement noted.

The delegation visited the Rajasthan Jan Aadhaar Authority located in Yojana Bhawan.

Naveen Jain told the delegation that through a database in Rajasthan, the benefits of the schemes are reaching the real beneficiaries.

The database is playing "an unprecedented role in identifying ineligible people in the state and ensuring the reach of schemes to the real beneficiaries, women empowerment and financial inclusion".

Joint Director, Jan Aadhaar Authority, Sitaram Swaroop said that 97 per cent of the population of the state has been covered under the scheme under which enrollment of 2,02,43,526 families and 1,54,16,25,269 DBT transfers have been done.

A presentation was given regarding various aspects of Jan Aadhaar Yojana and the challenges faced in the implementation of the scheme.

The visiting delegation included Arunachal Pradesh Planning and Investment Department Secretary Rajendra Sharma, Research Officer K. Paul, and Advisor CMO, Soumya Chakraborty.

The Rajasthan government describes Jan Aadhaar as "one number, one card, one identity" scheme with the key objective of preparing a database of demographic and socio-economic information of the resident families of the state and, through the Jan Aadhaar card, the identity of the family and its members.

"Through this scheme, the benefits of various cash departmental schemes of the state are directly credited to the beneficiary's bank account in a transparent manner and the benefits of public welfare schemes are made available to the residents of the state near their homes and e-commerce and insurance facilities are made available in rural areas to elaborate," an official document reads.
Chennai, Aug 8 : Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai has said that the External Affairs Ministry is taking steps to convene the Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting of delegates from External Affairs and Fisheries Ministries of the Government of India and their Sri Lankan counterparts to discuss the issue of the state's fishermen.

In a statement on Wednesday, Annamalai said that in 2024 alone 273 fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy, of whom 204 were released.

A total of 61 persons were remanded in judicial custody while eight others were convicted, he added.

"During our recent meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, we have emphasised on an amicable solution to the fishermen issue. The Minister has promised to convene the Joint Working Group meeting of Indian and Sri Lanka officials to discuss the issue," the state BJP chief said.

Annamalai had recently led a delegation of fishermen from Tamil Nadu to meet with the External Affairs Minister and apprise him about the plights of state fishermen.

On August 1, a fishing boat from Rameswaram was reportedly hit by a Sri Lankan Naval boat during the early morning hours. There were four fishermen onboard and after being hit by the Sri Lankan Navy, all four fell into the water. While one died and another was reported missing. The remaining two were arrested by the Sri Lankan police and later handed over to the Indian authorities.
New York, Aug 8 : Shri Thanedar has won the Democratic Party Congressional nomination to run for re-election in a primary battle tinged with an undercurrent of racial politics.

Thanedar beat two challengers in the primary held on Tuesday, winning 54 per cent of the votes in a constituency that is a Democratic Party fortress that covers parts of Detroit in Michigan state.

He won the 2022 election with 71.4 per cent of the votes  a 47 per cent lead over the Republican candidate assuring him of a re-election this time.

The constituency has an African American majority and, according to the Detroit News, his two opponents had argued that the seat should be represented by African Americans like them because for over 60 years a member of the community had represented the city.

Earlier, the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus in Congress, Steven Horsford, had endorsed fellow African-American, Adam Hollier, against Thanedar in a break with the tradition of members of Congress not backing anyone against a fellow legislator.

But Hollier was disqualified after election officials acting on a complaint by Thanedar said some signatures on the petition nominating him for the primary were forged.

A scientist-turned-entrepreneur, Thanedar became the fifth member of the "Samosa Caucus" of Indian American members of Congress when he was first elected in 2020 from a differently configured constituency with 93 per cent of the votes.

He was born in Chikodi in Karnataka and came to the US in 1979 to do a PhD in chemistry.

Thanedar is a supporter of Israel and broke off from the Democratic Socialists of America, a leftist group within the Democratic Party, after it held what he called a "hate-filled and antisemitic rally" in support of Palestine after the Hamas attack in October.

His X account was hacked in December and an anti-Israel rant was posted on it to embarrass him.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis)
At the inaugural Inside Literary Prize ceremony, held at the New York Public Library's flagship location in Manhattan on August 1, authors and advocates reflected on the significance of the first major U.S. book award judged exclusively by incarcerated people. The jury for this year's award comprised more than 200 incarcerated individuals and Departments of Corrections librarians from 12 prisons across six states: Arizona, Colorado, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, and North Dakota.

The Inside Literary Prize was launched late last year by Freedom Reads, the National Book Foundation (NBF), and the Center for Justice Innovation (CJI), with help from Interabang Books co-owner Lori Feathers. Freedom Reads founder and CEO Reginald Dwayne Betts, who emceed the event, discussed the awards' origins in his opening remarks, citing France's "inmate Goncourt" prize, an offshoot of the country's most prestigious book award, as the inspiration for the Inside Literary Prize.

"One of the ways that you show that you care about people is to allow them to have an active part in civic engagement," Betts said. "If the Gutenberg printing press is our greatest creation, then that means that literature is our greatest testimony, and the people who say what matters and what is to be valued are our greatest treasure. And if you choose to decide that people in prison don't matter, then you are choosing, maybe, to argue that redemption isn't possible."

This award purse was $4,860, which Betts said represented five years' of work at 54-cents-per-hourthe wage he earned working at the prison library while incarcerated.

This year's nominees were Tess Gunty's The Rabbit Hutch, Jamil Jan Kochai's The Haunting of Hajji Hotak and Other Stories, Imani Perry's South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation, and Roger Reeves's Best Barbarian (all of which won or were finalists for the National Book Awards). All four nominees delivered remarks throughout the evening, as did Feathers, CJI executive director Courtney Bryan, NBF executive director Ruth Dickey, and Andrea Smith, senior librarian for the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

"They entered into the experience with an open mind and the commitment to the process because it was their integrity at stake," said Smith of the incarcerated jurors she worked with. "This was their chance to make one vote for something permanent and lasting. I don't know what this means for recidivism but i do know what it means for my community. It means hope. It means words matter. It means stories matter, and people matter. And it means that we're listening."

In a video message from six incarcerated judges from the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Shakopee, a judge named Chelsea explained the value of the experience for her. "Being a judgejust meant a lot for me, she said. It meant that my voice mattered, because for the last four and a half years, my voice hasnt mattered. I got to be Chelsea. I wasnt just my number.

Imani Perry was named as the inaugural winner, letting out a sob when Betts made the announcement. In her remarks earlier that evening, Perry had discussed writing about prisons in South to America, saying, "[T]o tell the story of my home truthfully required me to address prisons, but more importantly, people who were once prisoners," including the late Johnny "Imani" Harris, whom she used to speak to on the phone as a child, and whom Perry inspired to change his name.

"In this honor, I renew my sense of responsibility to the millions of people incarcerated and under state supervision," said Perry in her acceptance speech. "Not as a matter of charity, but rather out of the deepest respect for the insight that comes from seeing society from the corners that it keeps hidden. And for the wisdom of those whom it keeps out of view. But most of all out of care for those in the grasp of confinement. I think this prize is most of all a recognition of readers and may this recognition of the intellectual life that exists behind bars extend much further God bless the organizers who believe in freedom. And, to the people inside, please know when I say we and when I refer to 'my people,' I mean you too."
The Washington State University Press will reportedly close at the end of the year after university officials decided to eliminate the presss $300,000 annual funding.

According to local reports, the press, which operates under WSUs Department of Marketing and Communications, will be shut down then when its current funding runs out. With the beginning of the fiscal year on July 1, 2024, Phillip Weiler, whos our VP of University Marketing and Communications had to make a 7.5% cut in the budget for the group, and he decided to cut the funding for the University Press, Linda Bathgate WSUP editor-in-chief told KIRO Newsradio. We would close down as of December 31, 2024.

The news comes two years after the 100-year-old press launched a new trade imprint, Basalt Books, to publish adult and children's general interest titles with a connection to the Northwest, and just months after the press announced a partnership with Whitworth University to launch a new academic imprint, Pines Press, dedicated to highlighting the regions scholarship.

Were the only publisher that really covers the Inland Empire, Washington, Idaho, Oregon... and we work a lot with tribal communities to provide an outlet for their stories, Bathgate told KIRO. So we feel that this was a very short-sighted, and maybe not a well-thought-out decision, maybe just a financial decision, but without consideration to the repercussions.
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By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 08/06/2024



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

star Jenn Tran has slammed allegations Sam McKinney is being unfairly portrayed in a negative light on the show's 21st season.fans have been cringing over Sam M.'s aggressive behavior in recent episodes. One troll commented on social media that Sam M. is "a really bad person."In response to backlash and criticism, Sam recently posted two emojis, a mirror and smoke, via Instagram to indicate that things may not be what they seem.Sam M.'s family has also been blowing up social media with fiery messages directed at producers for allegedly creating a false narrative about Sam M. and giving him a very unflattering edit.Jenn, however, said she thinks Sam M. has been accurately represented on 's 21st season thus far."Sam M. is very different with the guys than he is with me. I was very shocked to see that behavior," Jenn told Nick Viall during a recent episode of "The Viall Files" podcast.When asked if Sam M.'s behavior during filming was as aggressive as it has appeared on the show, Jenn responded, "I will say, in the moment, it was exactly how it was portrayed [on ]."For example, Sam was shown pressuring Jenn to jump off a sky tower during their one-on-one date in New Zealand when she was completely frozen with fear and cried about not wanting to do the activity.As Sam laughed and made light of the situation, Jenn accused Sam of not listening to her needs and failing to read her emotions.Sam's actions infuriated many viewers, and even Jenn said the bachelor had made her feel uncomfortable and "really pissed off" at times.But Jenn admitted she didn't send Sam M. packing during those red-flag moments because prior to her journey, she was used to dating men who weren't empathetic."I didn't have men -- not coddle me -- but check on me and have that nurturing feeling," Jenn recalled on Nick's podcast."And so when a partner [acts harshly], it feels familiar... I remember in that moment, I was like, 'This is how my brother would react.' But that's okay because that's my brother, it's not my partner. So it's funny thinking back now that I let it slide so easily."Jenn also confessed that she didn't want to send Sam M. home prematurely because she had "so much hope" for their strong Night 1 connection."I kind of had this gut feeling [about him]," she noted."At this point, I wanted to prove myself right, like, 'I picked this guy for the First Impression Rose for a reason.' And so I did give him a couple of chances to prove that to me."Sam became one of villains by feuding with Devin Strader multiple times and calling him "an ankle-biting dog" and "a bully." (ABC took a jab at Sam M. by writing in an onscreen graphic that Sam needed to look up the definition of the word "bully" in the dictionary).After joining forces with Thomas Nguyen , Sam also mocked Sam Nejad 's premature love profession to Jenn during the striptease group date.In addition to how Sam M. treated Jenn during their solo date in Auckland, he also gave her an awkward lap dance -- which Jenn didn't seem to want in the moment -- when asking her to be his girlfriend.Sam M. also hasn't been portrayed as the brightest bulb in the group given he seems to repeat the same cliche phrases such as, "Keep the main thing, the main thing."While Sam hasn't stood up for himself on social media, presumably due to contractual obligations with ABC, his family has been doing the talking for him."@bacheloretteabc you can silence your contestants, but you can't silence me #freespeech #letstellthetruth," Sam's sister Olivia McKinney recently wrote via Instagram Stories.Sam's other sister Hannah McKinney vented, "Let's see all the footage @bacheloretteabc.... I'm waiting."Many of the angry messages Sam's family has written were uploaded via screenshots on Reddit.One fan wrote to Hannah, "You don't have to defend your brother so hard. The viewers can see Sam's actions or hear the words he speaks. Your brother acts and speaks like a BULLY. He can learn from his mistakes and BECOME A BETTER MAN."Hannah replied, "Lol he isn't a bully and never has been. Again, they cut out so much that you aren't getting the true context [of] everything that is happening. I will defend my brother day in and day out... especially when they are being portrayed as somebody they're not."Sam's brother Seth McKinney got in on the action and wrote, "If only they showed footage of other people being the bully and Sam and Thomas actually being good guys."But it happened to be Sam's parents who penned the most passionate and angry messages on Facebook.Sam's mother, Susan McKinney, argued, "There is nothing real about 'reality' tv. To destroy someone's character and manipulate the truth through editing is wrong on so many levels... There are several spoilers out there for who [Jenn] chooses in the end.""Sam is a good guy regardless of how he is betrayed," she continued, "and I will no longer sit idly by and not speak up. Hey it's called free speech. At least mine is honest, which is more than they can say."And Sam's father, Jeff McKinney, revealed that Sam has been "a complete wreck" over how he's been portrayed on 's 21st season."Sam has (mostly) been the favorite with the first impression rose, etc. The spoiler was revealed and (in my opinion) the network had to paint Sam as this horrendous guy in order for Jenn not to look like a complete idiot," Jeff explained."Now I know why the network offers free counseling for 1 year after the show."Jeff claimed Sam's words and phrases were cut and pasted to create a narrative wanted to run with."Can't change what he said and how he said it, but they can change the scene, script and context and totally change the delivery. That's how I feel. #StandWithSamM," Jeff concluded.But Sam M. may have redeemed himself in some viewers' eyes on 's fifth episode that aired on August 5. Sam M. comforted Jenn when she was feeling unworthy of love, and he assured the Bachelorette that all of the guys left -- even his enemy Devin -- viewed her as their future wife. Click here to read episode-by-episode spoilers about how Jenn's season unfolds, including who Jenn picks as her winner and runner-up Interested in more The Bachelor news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
Manish Tiwary plans to take up a new role at another firm.

Photograph: Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters

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 company's 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 Tiwary's departure was being discussed internally, it was made public on Tuesday through an e-mail sent to the India leadership team by Agarwal, sources indicated.

It is learnt that Agarwal's 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 Agarwal's letter.

IMAGE: Manish Tiwary. Photograph: Kind courtesy Manish Tiwary/X

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. Manish's 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, Reliance's JioMart and the Tatas in India, has invested around $6.5 billion in the e-commerce business.

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 retailer's $3.4 billion deal with RIL.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
The steep cut in Customs duty on silver in the FY25 Budget to 6 per cent from 15 per cent may provide the government temporary relief by checking the spurt in silver imports from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Photograph: Murad Sezer/Reuters

In FY24, silver imports from the UAE jumped to $1.7 billion from only $11.18 million in FY23, according to commerce department data. In May, about 87 per cent of Indias silver imports came from Dubai.

In 2022, India signed the CEPA with the UAE, agreeing to gradually reduce the duty on silver imports to zero over 10 years.

Currently, the duty on imports from the UAE under CEPA is 8 per cent.

The drop in import duty of silver to 6 per cent for all countries has thus nullified the advantage for importers to ship silver from UAE.

The qualified jewellers are allowed to import silver through GIFT city and in addition to that the rate of duty under the UAE CEPA became 8 per cent from April 1 and there is no quantity restriction also.

"So there was a spurt in silver imports under the UAE CEPA. Now that MFN (most-favoured nation) rate of duty is 6 per cent and under CEPA it is 8 per cent, so that is plugged, Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs, told Business Standard in an interview.

However, the Customs duty on silver imports from the UAE will fall to 6 per cent from April 1 in FY26 under the CEPA, thus bringing parity with the 6 per cent duty for all other countries.

Subsequently, from FY27 onwards, concessional duty to the UAE will be 5 per cent or less on silver, restoring its advantage over other countries.

This situation underscores the urgent need for the government to renegotiate CEPA.

"Without a revised agreement, the current relief provided by the duty cuts will be short-lived, and India will once again face substantial arbitrage disadvantages.

"Renegotiating CEPA is essential to ensure that India does not find itself in a similar predicament in the near future, said Ajay Srivastava, founder of Global Trade Research Initiative.

Srivastava said the high silver imports from the UAE is unusual because the UAE does not produce silver.

It imports large silver bars from Russia and other countries, melt and convert these into silver grainmays.

"A check with global refiners based in Switzerland, Peru will show that value addition is much less than 1 per cent in this process.

"Despite this, traders claim and the UAE authorities certify a 3 per cent value addition to meet CEPA rules of origin. It also needs to be seen if this transformation meets the tariff change criteria, he said.
The market responded positively to the Q1 results of oil marketing companies (OMCs), Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) despite numbers being weaker than consensus.

Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters

BPCLs reported gross refining margin (GRM) was in line at $7.9 per barrel (bbl) in Q1FY25, which implies marketing margin stood at Rs 4.8 per litre.

Standalone profit after tax or PAT at Rs 3,000 crore was down versus consensus due to under-recoveries in LPG business.

The refining throughput of 10.1 million tonnes (mmt) was marginally below consensus with Russian crude at 39 per cent of mix.

Sales volume (excluding exports) was 13.2 mmt in Q1FY25 (flat Q-o-Q).

The benchmark Singapore GRM is marginally up in Q2FY25, which may lead to muted refining performance.

Management guidance was that BPCL took a hit of Rs 2,000 crore due to LPG under-recoveries in Q1FY25.

BPCL is losing Rs 600 crore per month on LPG but remains hopeful of financial support.

Russian crude discounts were flat quarter-on-quarter (Q-o-Q) at $3.5-4 per bbl. BPCL is looking to add refining capacity and believes GRMs should recover to normalised levels by Q2FY25 end.

Analysts would downgrade consolidated PAT for FY25 assuming LPG under-recoveries continue but there are rumours of government support in H2FY25.

The Ebitda stood at Rs 5,650 crore with a marketing inventory gain of Rs 400 crore in Q2FY25.

Adjusted Ebitda stood at Rs 5,250 crore. As of June this year, BPCLs debt stood at Rs 15,200 crore versus Rs 18,800 crore as of March 2024.

The current marketing margins remain healthy which is a positive.

But the upside may be limited unless LPG compensation occurs.

It was similar for HPCL where the LPG under-recoveries also hurt financials despite good operational performance.

HPCLs Ebitda stood at Rs 2,100 crore in Q1FY25, well below consensus.

The miss was due to LPG under-recovery of Rs 2,350 crore, and again, there are hopes of support in H2FY25.

HPCLs refining throughput was 7 per cent above estimate at 5.8 mmt (up 7 per cent year-on-year or Y-o-Y).

The reported GRM was below estimate at $5 per bbl (down 32 per cent Y-o-Y).

The marketing volumes stood at 12.6 mmt, also up 7 per cent Y-o-Y.

The marketing margin (computed including inventory gains) stood at Rs 3 per litre, down 60 per cent Y-o-Y.

The PAT was reported at Rs 360 crore, way below the consensus, due to the LPG under-recovery and also due to a drop in Other Income.

By June 24, HPCL had a cumulative negative net buffer of Rs 2,440 crore, due to the under-recovery on LPG cylinders (Rs 100 crore under-recovery in FY24 as well as Q1FY25 under-recoveries of Rs 2,350 crore).

HPCL clocked its highest-ever quarterly sales volume of 12.63 mmt (including exports), implying small market share gains. Lubricant sales stood at 152,000 metric tonnes (MT) (up 3 per cent Y-o-Y).

It also posted highest-ever petrochemical sales of 30,300 metric tonnes in Q1FY25 and pipeline though 6.83 mmt was recorded in Q1FY25.

The lubricants division introduced three new brands.

HPCL has commissioned 126 new retail outlets, bringing the total outlets to 22,148. It has finalised three master sales purchase agreements (MSPAs) with suppliers for sourcing spot LNG cargoes, for a total number of eight MSPAs.

It achieved the highest-ever Ethanol blending ratio of 14.3 per cent in Q1FY25 and capex of Rs 2,020 crore was incurred in Q1FY25.

Key process units such as diesel hydro-treating (DHDT) and hydrogen generation unit (HGU), are currently in the pre-commissioning phase.

As of June24, the total capex commitments stood at Rs 69,850 crore and capex incurred was Rs 48,000 crore.

The Visakhapatnam refinerys 3.55 million metric tonnes per annum residue upgradation facility is anticipated to be mechanically completed in Q2FY25, with commissioning in Q3FY25. In both cases, investors are pinning their hopes on the government eventually compensating companies for the LPG under-recoveries since this is a controlled price substance.
'His contribution not only elevates our institution but also serves as an inspiring example of how our alumni community continues to drive meaningful change.'

IMAGE: Indian Institute of Technology Madras 1970 alumnus Dr Krishna Chivukula, centre, at the event where he donated Rs 228 crore to the institution, August 6, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

IIT-Madras named an academic block in honour of Chivukula -- 'Krishna Chivukula Block' -- during an event at the campus on Tuesday.

Dr Chivukula in 1997 brought to India a state-of-the-art engineering manufacturing technology called 'Metal Injection Molding' while it was still an emerging technology in the US.

Presently, his company, the INDO US MIM Tec, occupies the number one position in the world in MIM technology in terms of capacity and sales, and has a projected turnover of nearly Rs 1,000 crore (Rs 10 billion).

IIT-Madras recognised his professional excellence and contributions to the community by conferring on him the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2015.

"My education at IIT-Madras, in addition to being extremely memorable and enjoyable, enabled me to accomplish much in life and put me in a position whereby I can give back to the Institute a gift -- one of the largest single donations to date to a university in India,' Dr Chivukula said.

This donation will be utilised for multiple purposes, including supporting international students to study at IIT-Madras through scholarships, research excellence grant programme, an undergraduate fellowship programme for freshers, etc.

IIT-Madras raised a historic high of Rs 513 crore (Rs 5.13 billion) during 2023-2024, a 135 per cent increase from the previous financial year.

In recent years, IIT-Madras has emerged as a national leader in 'Tech Driven CSR' through which the institute is translating the cutting edge research underway in its labs to actual products that benefit society and the country at large with support from the alumni, donors and corporate firms.

The number of donors giving over Rs 1 crore (Rs 10 million) to the institute is 48 (16 alumni donors and 32 corporate partners).

The total amount raised through alumni alone during 2023-2024 was Rs 367 crore (Rs 3.67 billion), which was an increase of 282 per cent compared to the previous year.

Their focus areas included cutting edge research across various social-impact themes, infrastructure, and scholarships for students, besides establishing chair professorships for research in specific areas.

The Office of Institutional Advancement, which is responsible for this outreach, is an initiative of the IIT Madras Alumni Charitable Trust.

"We are profoundly grateful to Dr Krishna Chivukula, an esteemed alumnus of IIT-Madras, for his extraordinary generosity and unwavering commitment to our institution," said Kaviraj Nair, CEO, Office of Institutional Advancement, IIT-Madras.

"His monumental contribution, the largest-ever single donation received by IIT-Madras, stands as a testament to his dedication to fostering excellence in education, research, and innovation," Nair added.

"Dr Chivukula's visionary support will significantly enhance our capabilities and propel IIT-Madras to new heights. His contribution not only elevates our institution but also serves as an inspiring example of how our alumni community continues to drive meaningful change," Nair said.

Dr Chivukula graduated with an MTech (aerospace engineering), majoring in jet propulsion in 1970 from IIT-Madras. In addition, he received an MBA from the Harvard Business School in 1980.

After a stint as Group President and CEO at the Hoffman Group of Companies in New York, Dr Chivukula founded two 'world number one' companies in succession.

Shiva Technologies Inc in 1990 specializing in advanced mass spectroscopy to certify ultrahigh purity materials and Indo MIM Pvt Ltd in Bengaluru to produce small metal and ceramic components with complex geometries in high volumes.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
Private banks net profit grew 26.3 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) to Rs 48,982 crore in the first quarter ended June 2024 (Q1FY25) owing to healthy growth in credit and other income.

The gross non-performing assets (GNPAs) increased with the end of dispensation granted during the pandemic, according to the data compiled by BS Research Bureau for listed 18 private banks.

GNPAs in absolute terms rose 4.9 per cent Y-o-Y and 3.3 per cent sequentially to Rs 1.33 trillion at the end of June.

Net NPAs rose 10.1 per cent Y-o-Y and 7.4 per cent sequentially to Rs 33,401 crore at end June.

While NPAs have grown, provisions for them have not moved up.

Current provision coverage is high because lenders have been setting aside more money than what regulatory norms require in the post-pandemic phase.

Provisions and contingencies, including those for standard loans and NPAs, decreased by 6 per cent Y-o-Y and 5.2 per cent sequentially to Rs 9,754 crore in Q1FY25.

According to Suresh Ganapathy, managing director, head of financial services research, Macquarie Capital, the goldilocks scenario of high growth, high margins, exceptionally low credit costs was coming to an end.

This couldnt have gone on forever. First, the recoveries will be down -- the same level of upgrades and recoveries from written-off accounts cant continue and then some pickup in stress in unsecured loans, he said.

S&P Global Rating in its Mid-Year Banking Outlook for South and Southeast Asia recently had indicated the cost of banking credit in India was expected to normalise from decade-low levels.

The cost was at 0.8 per cent in 2023-24, below the long-term average of 1.5 per cent.

We expect credit cost to rise marginally to 0.8-0.9 per cent, the rating agency had said.

A majority of the banks have indicated there is some stress in the unsecured portfolio, especially in the credit-card and personal-loan segment.

Additionally, two of the largest private sector lenders  HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank  have indicated they have slowed the growth of their unsecured portfolio.

This comes amid the Reserve Bank of India cautioning banks on the exuberance in this segment.

Sanjay Agarwal, senior director, CARE Ratings, said while delinquency was rising in the unsecured credit portfolio, including micro loans, the asset quality, GNPAs, for private banks was normalising after cleanup and dispensations given during the pandemic.

GNPAs have hit the bottom for private banks and may rise in absolute terms in tandem with growth in the loan books, he said.

Most banks experienced compression in net interest margins due to increased funding costs from intense competition for deposits.

Margins are expected to remain pressured because rising stress slows growth in unsecured loans, which typically offer higher margins, and new liquidity coverage regulations require more investment in low-yielding government securities, further impacting margins.

CARE Ratings in its review of Q4FY24 had said the cost of funds continued to rise, exerting pressure on the net interest margin and this trend is expected to continue in Q1FY25.
Flush with funds, quick commerce unicorn Zepto is planning to relocate from Powai in Mumbai to a larger office space in Bengalurus Sarjapur to accommodate its imminent new hires.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Zepto

While the company will maintain an office in Mumbai, its primary operations will shift to the new space in Bengaluru.

A spokesperson for Zepto confirmed the development to Business Standard.

Although the company already has an office in Bengaluru, it is currently operating out of a larger office in Mumbai in partnership with co-working space provider WeWork.

The lease period with WeWork ends in December.

"To continue operating from its Mumbai office, the company would incur housekeeping and management charges, said a source familiar with the situation.

Zepto currently employs around 1,800 people and plans to hire an additional 500 soon, chief executive officer Aadit Palicha told Business Standard earlier.

The team has outgrown the current office, and with new hires coming in, the company needs a bigger space, the source added.

Of Zeptos 1,800 employees, about 200 are working remotely from across the country, while the rest are evenly split between Mumbai and Bengaluru.

Around half of Zeptos leadership team, including co-founder Kaivalya Vohra and chief financial officer Ramesh Bafna, are also based in Bengaluru.

Half of the technology team is already in Bengaluru, while most of the product and marketing teams are in Mumbai.

"The company wants the product and technology teams to work together in a single office space, the source said.

Zepto is in the advanced stages of finalising a lease for a new property in Bengalurus Sarjapur.

While the deal is yet to be completed, the company expects to save quite a bit on rent, which will help offset the relocation costs for its employees  an expense the company will cover.

It is up to the employees whether they want to relocate or work remotely.

"Zepto is offering them the flexibility to choose, the source said.

In addition to the new office space in Bengaluru, Zepto is also planning to find another office in Mumbai.

The number of employees who will continue to operate from Mumbai will be determined based on the new lease agreements.

Zepto recently raised $665 million in Series F funding at a $3.6 billion valuation.

The company is also looking to strengthen its leadership ahead of its upcoming initial public offering by hiring several senior-level employees across various categories.

Zeptos decision to move to Bengaluru highlights the challenges Mumbai faces in retaining startups due to high costs and infrastructure issues.

The Tech Entrepreneurs Association of Mumbai said that Zeptos move to Bengaluru demonstrates that the city can successfully incubate and scale startups.
'Bangladesh has become unstable and this instability will impact India.'

IMAGE: People wave Bangladesh flags on top of Ganabhaban, the prime minister's residence in Dhaka, as they celebrate Sheikh Hasina'resignation. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

"It must be understood that India is not giving political shelter or political asylum to Sheikh Hasina. She requested the Indian government for time and a place to stay till she makes alternate arrangements. There is bipartisan consensus about her," says veteran journalist Gautam Lahiri.

Mr Lahiri has reported on most Bangladesh elections, visited the neighbouring country many times and has vast experience of covering Bangladesh politics.

Presently, president of the Press Club of India, he has spent nearly 40 years in journalism and specialises in South Asia.

He has interviewed ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina several times and writes for Bangladeshi publications.

In an interview to Rediff.com's Archana Masih, Mr Lahiri speaks about the fall of Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's rapid descent into anarchy and the emergence of the interim government under Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus.

What is the road ahead of Bangladesh now that the president has announced an interim government late last night?

The president of Bangladesh has announced an interim government under him. The system of the country is such that in a caretaker government, the president appoints a chief advisor under him who is the de facto prime minister.

There were internal discussions going on and a few names were floating around, but the students preferred Dr Yunus.

What would be the nature of this interim government and who will be its constituents?

The election commission statute says that once the interim government is formed a general election has to be called within three months.

Sheikh Hasina's son has said that she will no longer be in active politics, but the Awami League will be in the fray. Whether that election will be free and fair is debatable, as of now there is uncertainty and instability in Bangladesh.

IMAGE: A mural of Sheikh Hasina vandalised by protesters. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

In your opinion, looking at the history of Bangladesh will it be a civilian government or will it be backed by the Army?

In 2007 when there was a civilian government backed by the army, there was a law and order problem even then. Sheikh Hasina was in the Opposition at that time. She started a movement and with the intervention of the Government of India, they were forced to hold elections under the caretaker government. Sheikh Hasina swept that poll.

People say that that was the last free and fair poll in Bangladesh. Khaleda Zia, the then prime minister, had to resign. The army had taken over and installed the caretaker government.

The Bangladesh constitution has a provision for a caretaker government, but when Sheikh Hasina came to power in 2007 she abolished that provision.

She said like any other democratic country like India, the elected government will be the caretaker government, but in every election there have been allegations of malpractices.

Even now there are indications of unconstitutional actions as seen in the all-party meeting called by the army chief.

He did not invite the Left and democratic forces that were in the movement with the students, but the Jamaat and Hefazat leaders were called, the latter has a serious case lodged against him.

Some were raising questions why the Jamaat was called for the meeting because it is still a banned entity.

These questions are being raised by those who supported the student movement.

When the student leaders expressed their resentment about this, the president called the students in the evening and asked to give their nominees.

They did so and the first preference was Dr Yunus.

It took longer than usual to announce the interim government which indicates that there was some internal tug and pull because every political party wants a share of the cake, but whoever is in the government, it will not be a stable government.

IMAGE: Civilians control traffic in Dhaka. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

What reservation would there have been against Dr Yunus, a highly respected Nobel Laureate?

It is felt that the present army chief has reservations because Dr Yusuf has a strong support of the West, especially Washington. He has won America's President's and Congressional award and, of course, the Nobel Prize. He is known to be close to Hillary Clinton and the Democratic party.

The people wanted a minus 2 formula, neither Khaleda nor Hasina.

What is your understanding of the situation in Bangladesh till yesterday? [The interim government to be headed by Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammad Yunus was announced past midnight on Tuesday night.]?

There was a vacuum. The police had withdrawn because they were being threatened and attacked. The law and order machinery had collapsed. It is mayhem and total anarchy.

Miscreants and ideologically driven extremist elements are targeting not only the Awami League leaders, but also the minorities.

The statue of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman could not be broken down by the students. Islamist radicals who do not believe in statutes could be behind this desecration. It is a clear indication that forces like the Jamaat-e-Islami and other extremist forces are already in the streets.

Many extremist elements that were in prison are out on streets.

IMAGE: A vandalised mosaic of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in the Bijoy Sarani area in Dhaka. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

The safety of the minorities is a big concern for India. How can their safety be ensured during this time of widespread violence?

India is monitoring the situation closely and waiting for the interim government to be formed. Once the government is formed, India would send a strong message to the new government. Later on what happens is anybody's guess.

Bangladesh has become unstable and this instability will impact India, especially in the north east. The Jamaat publically proclaims that they will not allow any goods to travel through their land to the north east.

Therefore, India has a heavy stake. Bangladesh will be in a tough situation for the next three months. They have announced that there will be elections in the next three months, but no one knows if it will free and fair.

Most importantly, normalcy has to be restored. Police personnel from the Indian high commission had fled on Monday and were back yesterday, but they said they have no order to fire upon people.

The cultural centre of the Indian high commission was also vandalised on Monday. It is behind the Baganbandhu memorial.

IMAGE: Bangladesh citizens show their passports as they arrive at the Petrapol checkpoint in North 24 Parganas amid the turmoil in the neighbouring country. Photograph: ANI Photo

Sheikh Hasina has been a friend of India. Will her stay in India add to the anti-India sentiment?

The anti-India forces are using it and is the reason why they started attacking minorities and Indian institutions.

The longer she stays here it will create a problem, but as soon as the government is formed, India can talk to those in government in Bangladesh to calm the situation.

It must be understood that India is not giving her political shelter or political asylum. She requested the Indian government for time and a place to stay till she makes alternate arrangement.

There is bipartisan consensus about her, even Rahul Gandhi has said her safety and security is to be maintained.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
The Border Security Force on Wednesday said it thwarted a "significant" infiltration attempt by a large group of Bangladeshis along the International Border in West Bengal, amid an ongoing "high alert", announced due to a turmoil in the neighbouring country.

IMAGE: BSF DG Daljit Singh Chaudhary during his visit to Indo-Bangladesh border in North 24 Parganas district and Sunderbans area of West Bengal, August 5, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Officials said the personnel of the force stopped about 120-140 Bangladeshi citizens who were attempting to cross over to the Indian side from multiple locations in the eastern state.

The force has been on a "high alert" mode since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka earlier this week.

The North Bengal Frontier of the force issued a statement to quell "rumours" and clarify that there was "no widespread movement of the minority population from Bangladesh towards the Indian border."

"The individuals gathered were primarily motivated by fears of local unrest. The BSF, in coordination with the BGB, and Bangladeshi civil authorities has reassured these individuals of their safety and encouraged them to return to their homes," a spokesperson for the frontier headquartered in Kadamtala, Darjeeling, said.

The Bangladeshi nationals were observed gathering near the IB around noon in two sectors, the statement said.

These gatherings were prompted by fears of attacks by protestors in Bangladesh, it said.

According to the statement, BSF personnel demonstrated "exceptional vigilance" and proactive measures and swiftly responded to these situations," ensuring the security of the border and the safety of the gathered Bangladeshi nationals.

In one sector, it said, the BSF and the Border Guard Bangladesh, as well as local civil authorities, sent back 35 Bangladeshi civilians to their homes.

"BSF has deployed additional forces to manage the situation effectively," the statement said said.

In another sector, a group of Bangladeshi villagers approached the IB, causing a brief commotion, but the BSF personnel "promptly engaged" with the group, and the situation was peacefully resolved without any "adverse" incidents.

The villagers returned to their homes, and BSF remains on high alert, the spokesperson said.

In an another incident, the North Bengal Frontier said, a "significant infiltration attempt was thwarted when a large Bangladeshi crowd was observed near the border."

It added, "BSF personnel quickly mobilised and, with the cooperation of BGB, dispersed the crowd, preventing any violation of the International border."

The North Bengal frontier of the BSF guards 932.39 km section of the total 4,096-km-long India-Bangladesh international border covering the districts of Uttar Dinajpur, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar in West Bengal.
A letter penned by a school student lavishing praise on soldiers involved in rescue operations in landslides-hit Wayanad has won the heart of the Indian Army, which gave him a touching reply through its social media handle.

IMAGE: People pray for a departed family member at their grave. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters

The Southern Command of the Army posted the child's letter and their reply on the X handle recently.

Rayan, a Class 3 student of the AMLP School in this northern district, wrote the letter in his school diary, saying that he felt "proud and happy" to see the Army men rescuing people who were stuck under debris.

"I am Rayan. My beloved Wayanad was struck by a massive landslide, creating havoc and destruction. I felt proud and happy to see you rescuing people who were stuck under debris," the child said in the Malayalam letter.

He referred to a video in which the soldiers were seen eating biscuits to satisfy their hunger while setting up a bridge in the ravaged area and said the sight moved him deeply.

Rayan also expressed his wish to join the Indian Army one day and protect the nation.

"That sight moved me deeply, and I aspire to join the Indian Army one day and protect the nation," he wrote in the letter.

As the letter went viral on social media platforms, the Indian Army posted a reply to the student via their X handle on August 3.

Calling the young boy a "warrior," the Army said his "heartfelt words" have deeply touched them.

"Dear Master Rayan,

Your heartfelt words have deeply touched us. In times of adversity, we aim to be a beacon of hope, and your letter reaffirms this mission. Heroes like you inspire us to give our utmost. We eagerly await the day you don the uniform and stand alongside us. Together, we will make our nation proud. Thank you, young warrior, for your courage and inspiration," the Southern Command said.
Glimpses from Dhaka after Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh.

IMAGE: A rickshaw passes by a wall covered in graffiti in the University of Dhaka area. All photographs: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

IMAGE: A soldier blocks a road to restrict people's movement at the entrance of Ganabhaban, the Bangladesh prime minister's residence, in Dhaka, August 6, 2024.

IMAGE: People take pictures in front of the parliament building a day after the resignation.

IMAGE: People visit the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum, which was vandalised after the resignation, here and below.

IMAGE: A mural of Sheikh Hasina vandalised by protesters as people celebrate her resignation, August 5, 2024.

IMAGE: People wave the Bangladesh flag as they celebrate the resignation.

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Mahipal Soni/Rediff.com
Leyla Tariverdiyeva, Day.Az





The United States is suspending a program of assistance to Georgia for more than $ 95 million as part of a review of cooperation in connection with the adoption by Tbilisi of the law on foreign agents. This was stated last week by US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. The Secretary of State announced that "the anti-democratic actions and false statements of the Georgian government are incompatible with the norms of EU and NATO membership," and promised, nevertheless, that Washington will continue to provide some assistance that will help the citizens of Georgia.





As you know, in previous years Georgia was among the post-Soviet countries that received the largest allocations. And in 2025, it was supposed to become the second in Europe in this regard, having received 116.5 million from the United States. But that's unlikely to happen now. The planned allocations for the current year are already in question.





A representative of the State Department at a hearing in the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee made some clarity in Blinken's words about what kind of assistance America is going to save for Georgians. This is "everything that will contribute to [holding] free and fair elections this fall" and will make it clear to the Georgian Dream the real consequences of such a policy."





The last statement sounds like an open threat. Not only in Georgia, but also in the United States, are preparing for the Georgian parliamentary elections. The United States is preparing to interfere in the affairs of another state in the best traditions - using blackmail and manipulating the country's problems. Georgia, of course, has problems, but the American side clearly wants to create the impression that they will become critical and even catastrophic if aid from overseas stops. In Georgia, the reaction to this was quite restrained. Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili said he did not know what kind of financial assistance was in question, but assured that "this amount was not really included in the budget." "We are not a backward country that is subsidized by another state. It is also important that a feeling was introduced into our society that someone, somewhere, had stopped financing us and this would be a disaster," Papuashvili said.





According to Georgian sources, US aid is usually directed to the implementation of American projects in the field of "strengthening democracy and human rights." Part of the appropriations stopped by Washington goes to the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health, known as the Richard Lugar Center in Tbilisi. This institution has been the object of criticism from the Russian side for many years, claiming that biological weapons are being developed in American biological laboratories, which are used against Russia. It is noteworthy that the current Lugar Center was originally created as a military laboratory. In 2004, a corresponding document was signed between the Georgian Defense Ministry and Chairman of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Richard Lugar. It was stated that "Georgian scientists, together with the military, will provide a worthy partnership between the United States and European states in fruitful cooperation on the non-proliferation of biological weapons and the prevention of biological danger." At that time, Georgia was an outpost of the United States in the South Caucasus, and Russia quite reasonably did not believe in the words about the Americans' concern for the health of the Georgian people. The Georgian opposition considers the termination of funding a disaster for the healthcare system, arguing that American projects "support public health and preventive medicine both in the country and in the whole Caucasus."..





U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien, speaking at a hearing in the Senate Committee, said that Washington is considering imposing other sanctions against Tbilisi. He did not detail in detail the upcoming punitive measures, mentioning only the notorious Magnitsky act. At the same time, O'Brien hinted that the ruling Georgian Dream still has a "way back".





And what happens if Tbilisi still does not reverse course and does not back down for the sake of continuing American assistance and the appearance of a "European choice"? According to Georgian sources, a plan for another "color revolution" is being developed in this case. According to available information, relevant groups are currently being established in the Baltic States. The three Baltic countries are entrusted with the task of "saving" Georgia.





Recall that in May, during violent protests in Tbilisi, Georgia was unexpectedly visited without invitation by the Foreign ministers of Latvia, Estonia, Iceland and Lithuania, as well as the chairmen of the parliamentary committees on foreign affairs of Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, Lithuania and Finland. This landing force landed in Tbilisi as a sign of support for the "struggle for the European future." The foreign ministers of foreign states spoke at the rally, met with representatives of NGOs, campaigned and called. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis from the rostrum asked the Georgians the question "Where are we going?", which is a violation of both diplomatic protocol and all possible international norms. However, such a blatant attempt to brazenly correct the policy of official Tbilisi did not yield results. The law on foreign agents was passed, and a well-orchestrated protest wave fell apart, without leading to a coup or the voluntary resignation of the government. But, as practice shows, the screenwriters are unlikely to forgive the "Georgian Dream" this embarrassment. The foreign ministers were landed in Tbilisi in order to lead the crowds and put an end to Georgia's attempts to get out from under someone else's umbrella and follow an independent course. Decades

of "European choice" have not produced the expected results. The hopes and aspirations of the Georgian people associated with the patronage of the United States have not been realized. The West did not become a defense against external aggression, it helped when the country was on the verge of crisis. And today he is quietly watching the prison epic of Mikhail Saakashvili. The very West, whose officials do not sleep at night because of thoughts about Araik, Rubik and Bako.





Attempts to return Georgia to its former tracks have been made since March last year. The law on foreign agents has caused a surge of indignation in the collective West, although many countries in this "sector" have similar legislation and strictly prohibit external financing of individuals and organizations. Non-interference in the internal affairs of States is an unshakable norm of international law. And there are no amendments to it, which would indicate that it does not concern the Powers. Interference in Georgia's affairs, attempts to turn it into a channel of control over the region have led to the fact that various kinds of "revolutions" have become almost commonplace for this country. Those who care about the fate of Georgia understand that the current authorities must resist and not succumb to blackmail in order to put an end to the series of "revolutions". A truly independent State should not succumb to pressure, no matter what it costs.





When the opposition rose up against the law on foreign agents a year ago, it was expected that the authorities would save. The protest wave was powerful and many predicted even another "revolution". Although the government withdrew the bill at that time in order not to inflame passions, the very fact of resistance caused discontent, and, as Georgian sources write, even then the American side began to form a scenario for a change of power. Shalva Papuashvili, referring to secret investigations by the security service, openly stated that the US Agency for International Development (USAID) financed the planned coup scenario through special groups and local organizations sent to the country.





Preparations are reportedly underway for a third coup attempt. To prevent such a development, Tbilisi has only one option - to obey and cling to the hand. Simply revoking the law will no longer help, because the former patrons are very annoyed by the independent behavior of the ruling team. So far, no one has allowed themselves to do this. Meanwhile, judging by the statements of Georgian officials, Tbilisi does not intend to fall into someone's hands.





In fact, the law on foreign agents does not pose any threat to democracy and everything else. However, he puts a barrier in front of those who for decades uncontrollably and purposefully turned the country into an outpost, feeding the Georgian people with promises. Georgia has been waiting for the mercy of the European Union for almost twenty years, longer than all other post-Soviet countries (not counting the Baltic States) that have set their sights on Europe. She received the status of a candidate in December last year - the last one. Despite the fact that Georgia was the only one who was really ready to integrate into the EU in all respects, it was fed with promises.





The Georgian side quite logically asks critics a simple question: why is it that in the United States, the European Union, and many leading countries the adoption of laws on foreign agents is considered the order of things, but in Georgia this issue has been turned by external actors into a tool of manipulation? The same USA has had similar legislation for almost a hundred years. Last December, the Directive on foreign agents was adopted by the European Commission. However, no one talks in these cases about a "blow to democracy" and a "departure from the European path."





The fact that Georgia's adoption of a law aimed at eliminating external threats to its security caused such a violent reaction and sanctions against Tbilisi says only one thing: this step by the Georgian government violated someone's plans and violated them very seriously. And it's not just about the law. Rather, it became an excuse to launch an offensive against the Georgian government. Georgia showed disobedience even when it refused to join the sanctions against Russia after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Although Georgia has its own scores with Moscow, the government has wisely judged that joining the sanctions would hit the Georgian economy and security. Who will help the country in this case? Not the collective West, which had already thrown Georgia to the mercy in 2008. And it was during the period of Saakashvili's government, which was loyal to the West.





Today it is already noticeable that the United States is "losing" Georgia. And now they are trying to replace it with Armenia. The Armenian authorities are foolishly triumphant. Yerevan is ready to do whatever the new guardians wish, without thinking at all about the consequences.





There is also such a moment - having lost the playground in the person of Georgia, the United States loses the opportunity to interfere in the affairs of the region as a whole. Armenia will not be able to become a complete replacement. It is no secret that a funding channel for Azerbaijani NGOs and grant-eaters, who were left without the support of employers after the adoption of relevant legislation in Azerbaijan, passed through Georgia. Baku brought order to this area, blocking the possibility of creating an anti-state network in the country, and foreign structures interested in continuing destructive activities had to look for other ways. In particular, through Georgia. Funds for the anti-state network were smuggled, in the truest sense of the word. The foreign-funded Institute of Public Affairs of Georgia (GIPA), which has also been training personnel for Armenia and Azerbaijan for a long time, was involved in the schemes of secret financing of Azerbaijani "revolutionaries".





The current Government of Georgia wants to put an end to this practice. He's going to have a hard time. We remember what happened in Azerbaijan when our country set a course to squeeze out foreign influence. Taking advantage of the war and the crisis, the agents of this influence managed to take root in the republic, and in order to get rid of this threat, many difficulties had to be overcome, including massive attacks by the "democratic world".





But everything ends sometime. Georgia needs to stand up and defend its right to independence. The Georgian people have been fighting for this for thirty years.
Last updated on: August 07, 2024 13:12 IST

The Indian Army and Indian Air Force rescued pilgrims from landslide-affected areas of Sonprayag on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, and from Kedarnath Dham on Monday, August 5, 2024 respectively.

IMAGE: An Indian Army team rescues yatris in Sonprayag on Tuesday. All photographs: ANI Photo

IMAGE: The army installed a temporary bridge for the pilgrims to cross the river.

IMAGE: The pilgrims cross the river, here and below.

IMAGE: On Monday, IAF helicopters rescued 94 stranded tourists from Kedarnath Dham, here and below.

IMAGE: Relieved tourists inside one of the helicopters.

IMAGE: The tourists alight from an IAF helicopter.

Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh will take oath on Thursday, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said.

IMAGE: Supporter of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) join in a rally, days after the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka, on August 7, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, General Waker said the interim government is likely to be sworn in at 8 pm on Thursday.

He also said the advisory council may have 15 members.

Yunus, the 84-year-old economist, was on Tuesday appointed as the head of 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.
The Delhi police told a court in Delhi that they were probing the "larger conspiracy" behind the "brutal attack" on Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar.

IMAGE: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's aide Bibhav Kumar being produced before the Tis Hazari Court in connection with the alleged assault case on AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal at CM Kejriwal's residence, in New Delhi on May 31, 2024. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo

In the chargesheet, parts of which accessed by PTI on Wednesday, the police also said that Kumar and Kejriwal were "together" at the chief minister's official residence "for a significant period of time" after the alleged offence was committed.

Kumar, who is in judicial custody, is accused of assaulting Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Maliwal on May 13 at the chief minister's residence.

"The complainant, in her subsequent/supplementary statement recorded after the bail hearing qua the accused before the Delhi high court on July 10, 2024, had stated that the manner in which the entire AAP leaders and workers came in support of the accused (Kumar), against one of their own MP, shows that there is a larger conspiracy behind the attack and had urged the police to probe into it," the final report said.

It said her statement was "relevant for the present investigation in view of the complete U-turn being publicly taken by two responsible persons of the party regarding the same incident in the days following the commission of the crime".

The charge sheet, which runs into around 500 pages and has statements of about 50 witnesses, was filed in a city court on July 16 and its cognisance was taken on July 30.

"Investigation has brought out the fact that the accused and the CM were together at the scene of crime ie, the CM, Delhi residence, immediately after the commission of the crime for a significant period of time and, as such, the contrarian public stands taken by responsible public servants in the following days, also needs to be examined in its correct perspective to decipher if there was a larger conspiracy behind the brutal assault on the complainant/victim at the hands of the accused," it said.

The final report said that "selective footages" of CCTV cameras were leaked to the media before the relevant recording devices could be seized and this necessitated a probe to find whether there was a "conspiracy" behind the offence.

According to the charge sheet, the Delhi police levelled charges against Kumar under several Indian Penal Code provisions, including Sections 201 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence), 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 341 (wrongful restraint), 354 (assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354B (assault or use of criminal force against a woman with the intent to disrobe her), 506 (criminal intimidation) and 509 (insult caused to the modesty of a woman by the use of any words, gestures or object intending to do the same).

It said there was "sufficient evidence", both oral and documentary, against Kumar.

"It is also relevant to mention here that accused Bibhav Kumar, as brought out by the investigation carried out so far, appears to be a repeat offender since he has previously been involved in a similar case (registered in 2007) under IPC Sections 353, 506 and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace)," the final report said.

Following the FIR registered on May 16 at Civil Lines police station, Kumar was arrested on May 18. He was sent to police custody for five days the same day by a magisterial court, which observed that his anticipatory bail plea had become infructuous because of his arrest.

On May 24, Kumar was sent to four days of judicial custody, following which he was again remanded to police custody for three days. He was then sent to judicial custody.

A team led by an additional female DCP-level officer has been investigating the case.
Life has come full circle for Nobel laureate Professor Mohammad Yunus, who faced persecution during Sheikh Hasina's regime for embezzlement, is now all set to head of the interim government in Bangladesh after she resigned and fled the country.

IMAGE: Bangladeshi Nobel peace laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka on January 1, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament on Tuesday and appointed the 84-year-old economist as the head of an interim government.

His decision was prompted by a demand by the Anti-Discrimination Student

Movement to make him the non-partisan head of the caretaker government.

Yunus, globally recognised as 'The Father of Microfinance', is expected to return to Bangladesh from Paris on Thursday to take charge.

Yunus, who started as a Professor at national and international Universities, earned the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for women's empowerment through poverty alleviation, and received multiple national and international awards over the years.

But back home, he faced harsh scrutiny by the Hasina government for more than a decade 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.

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.

Meanwhile, over the years, 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.

On June 10 this year, a Dhaka court prosecuted Yunus and 13 others -- currently out on bail -- for embezzling as it rejected a plea for the dismissal of charges by the accused.

The prosecution accused Yunus and the others of embezzling Taka 250 million (about $2 million) from the workers welfare fund of Grameen Telecom, which owns a 34.2 per cent stake in Bangladesh's largest mobile phone operator, Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Norway's telecom giant Telenor.

"She destroyed the legacy of her father Bangabandhu Mujibur Rahman. Bangladesh is liberated. We are a free country now," Yunus told an Indian portal from Paris after news broke out of Hasina fleeing the country amid civil unrest.

Yunus was in Paris for a minor medical procedure, as reported by local media, when the President agreed to make him the head of the interim government.

Notwithstanding the Hasina government's stand, Yunus continued to receive international accolades as was evident by the speech by Susanna B Afan, president of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, on June 27 this year at Manila.

In 1984, the then 44-year-old Yunus was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership for 'his pioneering efforts in enabling rural men and women to become economically self-sufficient through sound group-managed credit'.

Stating that the work by Yunus, globally recognised as 'The Father of Microfinance' has not just inspired similar projects in Philippines, Indonesia and Pakistan but their respective founders too received the Ramon Magsaysay Award.

The 2006 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded for his work in poverty alleviation and the empowerment of poor women through Grameen Bank where Yunus has 'successfully melded capitalism with social responsibility' through the microcredit institution.

Born in pre-Independence India in 1940 in Chittagong, Yunus first studied at Dhaka University in Bangladesh, which was then East Pakistan; went as a Fulbright scholar to study economics at Vanderbilt University in the US and obtained PhD in economics in 1969.

The very next year, he became an assistant professor of economics at Middle Tennessee State University in the US but returned to Bangladesh to head the economics department at Chittagong University.

The bio published at the time when Yunus was awarded the Nobel lists his international achievements inkling from 1993 to 1995 as a member of the International Advisory Group for the Fourth World Conference on Women, a post to which he was appointed by the UN secretary general.

He has also served on the Global Commission of Women's Health, the Advisory Council for Sustainable Economic Development and the UN Expert Group on Women and Finance, it adds.

Apart from multiple national awards, Professor Yunus is the recipient of numerous international awards for his ideas and endeavours from countries including Sri Lanka, USA, Jordan, Sweden, Japan, The Netherlands, and South Korea.

Published on January 1, 1991, his autobiography, 'Banker to the Poor: Microlending and the Battle Against World Poverty', has been translated into at least a dozen languages including French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Gujarati, Chinese and Arabic.

His sphere of influence was evident when in January, more than 241 global leaders, including over 125 Nobel Laureates and former US President Barack Obama, had expressed their concerns via an open letter to Hasina over Yunus' 'continuous judicial harassment and potential jailing'.

With the regime change, it remains to be seen what will be the fate of over 150 other cases, including the major corruption charges that Yunus faces.

Earlier, those could have seen him jailed for years if found guilty while the economist has denied all the wrongdoing.

When one clicks on Yunus' own website, the very first quote of the Nobel laureate that greets you is, 'If you imagine, Some day it will happen. If you don't imagine, It will never happen.'

For a person who had dreamed of a poverty-free Bangladesh, Yunus perhaps never had imagined that one day he would be heading his country.
A day after her release from house arrest, Bangladesh's former prime minister and Bangladesh National Party (BNP) chairperson Khaleda Zia on Wednesday thanked the people of the country for their 'struggle to make possible the impossible' and said it is not 'anger' or 'revenge' but 'love and peace' which will rebuild the nation.

IMAGE: BNP chief Khaleda Zia on January 20, 2014. Photograph: Andrew Biraj/Files/Reuters

In her first public speech since 2018, delivered via video link at the BNP rally in Nayapaltan, 79-year-old Zia appealed for calm.

She thanked people as they fought and prayed for her to be released from imprisonment, The Daily Star newspaper reported.

"I have been released now. I want to thank the brave people who were in a do-or-die struggle to make possible the impossible. This victory brings us a new possibility to come back from the debris of plunder, corruption and ill-politics. We need to reform this country as a prosperous one," Zia said.

Urging all to strengthen the hands of the youths, the former premier said, "Youths are our future. We need to build a democratic Bangladesh to fulfil their dream, and for which they shed their blood...No destruction, no anger and no revenge, we need love and peace to rebuild our country."

Zia was sentenced to 17 years in prison for graft in 2018 under the rule of Sheikh Hasina, 76, who resigned as prime minister on Monday and fled to India in the face of massive protests against her government.

The BNP chairperson, currently undergoing treatment for various ailments, was released on an executive order from President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday.

Zia had been imprisoned for more than two years.

On March 25, 2020, the Hasina government suspended her sentence and granted her conditional release through an executive order.

Subsequently, the government extended her sentence suspension and release period every six months, upon application.

The rivalry between the two begums -- Hasina and Zia -- has defined politics in Bangladesh for decades.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Wednesday said the Preamble to the Constitution is very well there in NCERT textbooks of Class VI as he refuted charges made in this regard by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

IMAGE: Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge along with Opposition MPs hold copies of the Constitution of India while staging a protest, at the Parliament House in New Delhi. Photograph: ANI Photo

Earlier, Opposition Congress party raised in Rajya Sabha the issue of dropping Preamble from certain NCERT textbooks, saying this was an attempt to impose communal ideology on the country -- a claim which Union minister J P Nadda countered saying the government was committed to protecting Constitution.

During Zero Hour, Leader of the Opposition and Congress president Kharge said Preamble, which is the soul and foundation of Indian Constitution, used to be published in NCERT textbooks.

Soon after Zero Hour, Pradhan said Kharge has made certain remarks regarding NCERT books of the education department.

"I want to humbly put the facts in the House," he said.

The minister informed the House that till now textbooks for classes up to 7th have been published.

"Leader of the Opposition was saying that earlier there used to be Preamble (in the textbooks). In the new textbooks of Class VI, there is Preamble. Not only Preamble, there is Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights, and National Anthem (in the books). These also represent core values of the Constitution and they are in the books. What he said was not a fact," Pradhan said.

In Zero Hour, Kharge said, every citizen especially the future generation needs to be educated about foundational principles and values of Indian democracy and Constitution as well as the sacrifices made by freedom fighters such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, B R Ambedkar, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

He then went on to make a statement on shifting of statues of Gandhi and Ambedkar in the Parliament complex -- which was objected to from the treasury benches, and Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said Kharge was deviating from the subject.

"RSS and BJP are trying to impose their communal ideology on people by tampering with curriculum. And the step taken by NCERT is not right," he said amid protests from the ruling side.

At this point, Dhankhar ordered that nothing will go on record and he would 'look into what has to be deleted... last four minutes to be deleted'.

"You are digressing from the issue," he told Kharge.

Kharge demanded that the government give a clarification on the issue, present facts before the House and withdraw the move to drop Preamble from NCERT textbooks.

"Undoubtedly all of us are committed to the constitution and any perception to the contrary will hurt all of us," Dhankhar said.

Leader of the House and BJP President J P Nadda said though he has not seen either NCERT textbook or the change but can with all authority state that there is no question of any needling of the Constitution.

"Word by word, letter by letter, this government under the dynamic leadership of (Prime Minister) Modi is committed (to the Constitution)," he said.

On Kharge quoting from Constituent Assembly debate, he said it was only under the Modi government that November 26 (when the debate took place) was declared Constitution Day.

He went on to attack Congress for imposing Emergency in 1975 and dismissing more than 90 elected governments in states in violation of the Constitution.

On RSS, he said the Congress government tried to ban the organisation twice and jailed 1.25 lakh people for two years but 'RSS emerged stronger because it is a nationalist organisation and an organisation connected to the grassroots'.

"Preamble has been protected and will be protected," he declared.
Accusing a Gujarat judge of "bias" and acting in a "high-handed manner" while granting police custody, the Supreme Court on Wednesday held her and a police officer guilty of its contempt for sending an accused for custodial interrogation in a case disregarding the fact that he was granted pre-arrest bail by none other than the top court.

IMAGE: The Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo

In an unprecedented verdict, the top court said the criminal jurisprudence required courts to apply judicial mind to the facts of a case before granting police custody if it was "genuinely required".

"The courts are not expected to act as messengers of the investigating agencies and the remand applications should not be allowed in a routine manner," it said.

A bench comprising justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta, which had granted anticipatory bail to one Tusharbhai Rajnikant bhai Shah on December 8, 2023, was aghast that despite its order being in the operation, a judicial officer took note of a plea of the investigating officer and remanded him to police custody for interrogation.

"The action of the contemnor respondent No.7 (Deepaben Sanjaykumar Thakar, 6th Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat, in granting police custody remand of the petitioner and in failing to release him upon completion of the aforesaid period is clearly in teeth of this court's order...and tantamount to contempt.

"The contemnor-respondent's (judge) contumacious actions also contributed to the illegal detention of the petitioner for almost 48 hours after the period of police remand had come to an end," the bench held.

The conduct of the judicial officer gave a strong indication of her biased approach in the matter, it said.

The verdict said the power to grant anticipatory bail is not to be exercised in a routine manner and courts are expected to use this provision with a "great degree of circumspection".

"But, once, a court bearing in mind the strict parameters applicable to grant of anticipatory bail exercises such power, then in such a situation, giving a handle to the IO to seek police custody of the accused, would virtually negate and frustrate the very purpose behind the order of anticipatory bail," it said.

It also nullified the prevalent practice in Gujarat where courts, while dealing with anticipatory bails, "routinely impose restrictive conditions" and said it was a "direct contravention" of the apex court judgement.

Dealing in detail the role of Police Inspector RY Raval of Vesu Police Station at Surat, it said that his plea for police custody of the accused during currency of the interim protection granted to the accused was "in sheer defiance of this court's order" and "tantamount to contempt on the face of the record".

The bench held them guilty of having committed contempt of its order of December 8, last year.

Writing a 73-page judgement, Justice Gavai said the top court order would leave no room for doubt that the interim protection of anticipatory bail was "absolute, until modified or altered upon" by it while deciding the petition which was still pending.

"The language of the order was clear and unambiguous, hence, none of the contemnors-respondents could have entertained any doubt in their minds nor was there any scope for the interpretation that the petitioner could be remanded to police custody during the currency of the interim order," the verdict said.

Refusing to accept the unconditional apology of the judge, it said she had proceeded to deal with the case in a "predetermined manner".

The bench, however, absolved Surat Police commissioner of contempt charges saying that his role was limited to the aspect of non- functioning of the CCTV cameras installed at the police station to ascertain the claim of the accused of custodial torture.

The bench trashed the plea that the accused was not cooperating in the probe and said "We are of the firm opinion that non-cooperation by the accused is one matter and the accused refusing to confess to the crime is another."

"There would be no obligation upon the accused that on being interrogated, he must confess to the crime and only thereafter, would the IO be satisfied that the accused has cooperated with the investigation. As a matter of fact, any confession made by the accused before a police officer is inadmissible in evidence and cannot even form a part of the record," it said.

Apparently, the IO made blatant misinterpretations and procured the police custody of the accused, it said.

It said if at all, the IO felt genuine requirement to seek police custody, then the proper course would have been to move the top court itself.

Moving the remand application to the local court was "tainted, malicious and a contemptuous act", it said.

The bench also dealt with the defence of the judicial officer and said if the police custody was granted in a bona fide manner due to some misconception, then, she should have released the accused immediately at the end of police custody.

"The SLP of the petitioner (accused) had not been finally decided and was still pending adjudication, when the remand application was entertained and hence, there was no occasion for the 6th ACJM to have proceeded to interpret this court's order in a fanciful manner and that too while acting on a tainted remand application filed by the IO," it said.
In the coming assembly election, negotiations over seat-sharing will be as important as actual outreach to voters.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi inaugurates infrastructure projects worth over Rs 29,000 crore in Maharashtra in presence of then state governor Ramesh Bais, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Dy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and others in Mumbai, July 13, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

The background is the upheaval that followed the 2019 assembly elections: The Shiv Sena, under Uddhav Thackeray's leadership, fought in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party, but walked out of it weeks later to join the Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party and the Congress grouping that calls itself the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

More fractures followed as both the Shiv Sena and the NCP split with factions led by Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar joining the BJP-led Mahayuti.

Many old friends now became bitter foes and the erstwhile allies turned rivals.

There was some reflection of this political confusion in the outcome of the Lok Sabha elections.

Smita Wagh, BJP MP from Jalgaon, said cautiously: "Yes, people found it strange that till yesterday we were attacking leaders like Ajit Pawar but now we are defending them."

It is not just that the old poles of power have shifted in political parties as a result of new alignments. It is also that new ones have emerged.

For instance, Anees Ahmad, former MLA and Congress leader from Nagpur, confessed the new bonhomie between Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav could lead to the Congress signing over several seats in Maharashtra to the SP, "seats that the Congress could have won".

And this much is clear: That in the coming assembly election, negotiations over seat-sharing will be as important as actual outreach to voters.

Conscious of this, all parties have started preparing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his party parliamentarians from Maharashtra a day after the Budget. He reportedly told them to fight the Opposition narrative in a united manner.

"The prime minister asked us to outstrip the Opposition propaganda against the government and reach out to every voter at the booth level," a BJP MP who attended the meeting said.

The BJP's alliance partner Shiv Sena (Shinde group) is holding parallel meetings.

Ajit Pawar, state deputy chief minister who broke the NCP and joined the BJP alliance, had a meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah and is expected to meet him again, after he flagged the issue of delays in seat sharing and emphasised the need to reach a consensus on seat adjustment quickly.

The Congress is also leaving nothing to chance.

The party designated a coordination committee, comprising state party President Nana Patole, Vice-President Nana Gawande, and Legislature Party Leader (in the outgoing assembly) Balasaheb Thorat, that will represent the Congress's interests in negotiating for seats with alliance partners.

This was the outcome of several meetings earlier in July between Maharashtra Congress core committee members, MLAs, and MPs in the presence of Congress General Secretary K C Venugopal and Maharashtra election-in-charge Ramesh Chennithala in Mumbai.

More focused senior-level confabulations in Delhi followed last week, where strategist Sunil Kanugolu made a presentation on ground realities.

These negotiations are absolutely crucial to prevent own goals for all parties.

The central question is: What should be the basic organising principle in ticket distribution? Obviously, the larger the number of seats a party fights, the bigger the chances of winning more and with sufficient numbers, of snagging the chief minister's position.

One principle for ticket distribution could be the Lok Sabha election, with the disaggregated assembly segment performance of each party as the criterion for the proportion of seats to be contested in the assembly election.

But this is not judged an accurate barometer as political affiliations have changed since.

Although talks are still on, the Congress expects the 2019 assembly election will be used as the benchmark within the MVA.

According to this result, the (undivided) Shiv Sena won 56 seats of the 124 it contested as part of the 164-124 seat-sharing formula it had hammered out with the BJP.

Of them, Uddhav Thackeray will claim the seats held by MLAs still loyal to him but the seats where his supporters have decamped to the opposite side remain up for grabs.

"In 2019, the Shiv Sena (undivided) won 56 seats, the NCP (undivided) 54, and the Congress 45. That's 155. In addition, there are the seats the BJP won, in collaboration with Shiv Sena (105)," said former Congress chief minister Prithviraj Chavan.

"In 52 such seats, the Congress came second. There are 38 seats where the NCP came second. Both parties will claim these to field their candidates. The rest is up for negotiation," Chavan explained.

The negotiation, Chavan added, would have to take into account smaller parties too.

In 2019, the Communist Party of India-Marxist contested eight seats, the SP seven, and the Swabhimani Paksha five, to cite only a few.

The Congress is aiming to contest 100 seats with the NCP (Sharad Pawar) claiming around 80.

IMAGE: Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) Chief Uddhav Thackeray along with NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) Chief Sharad Pawar, Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat and others at a Maha Vikas Aghadi press conference in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI Photo

On the other side, the Mahayuti is not having an easy time of it, either.

'If each constituent insists on contesting 100 assembly seats, the parties will have to contest separately. With 288 assembly seats, being offered only 55 seats would be unacceptable for the party,' Amol Mitkari, a member of the Maharashtra legislative council and NCP spokesperson from Akola and a supporter of Ajit Pawar, said a few weeks ago.

The BJP has sought action against him on the grounds that as negotiations are still on, he has spoken out of turn.

So far, there has been no action by Ajit Pawar.

Mitkari has also said on X it was Ajit Pawar who 'saved the day for Eknath Shinde' and without his help, Shinde would not have been able to form the government.

Other partners too are sniping at the BJP.

'Due to the interference of the BJP, we lost the Nasik, Hingoli, and Wasim Lok Sabha seats. Otherwise, Hemant Godse, Hemant Patil, and Bhawana Gawali would have been re-elected Lok Sabha MP. We hope the BJP does not make the same mistake in the assembly elections,' Ramdas Kadam of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena said at a press conference.

BJP Spokesperson Syed Zafar Islam told Business Standard the party had faith in Devendra Fadnavis's ability to bring together diverse opinions.

"We will give the assembly elections everything we've got. We will fight to win. And we will win."

Not everyone agrees.

"In the Lok Sabha the people voted decisively against the BJP. The NDA (National Democratic Alliance) will be out in 2024," said Chavan, adding, "the party keeps saying Fadnavis is their best bet. Let us see if the senior leadership backs Fadnavis".

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Congress leader Salman Khurshid on Tuesday said what is happening in Bangladesh can happen in the country though "everything may look normal on the surface".

IMAGE: People wave Bangladeshi flags as they celebrate the resignation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka on August 5, 2024. Photograph: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters

The former Union minister was speaking at the launch of academician Mujibur Rehman's book Shikwa-e-Hind: The Political Future of Indian Muslims.

"Everything may look normal in Kashmir. Everything may look normal here. We may be celebrating the victory, although of course some people believe that that victory or that success of 2024 was perhaps only marginal, perhaps a lot more needs to be done," he said.

"The fact remains that under the surface there is something," he said.

"What's happening in Bangladesh can happen here... the spread in our country prevents things blowing up in the manner in which they've blown up in Bangladesh," he said.

Bangladesh was rocked by waves of violent anti-government protests since mid-July, following which Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign and flee the country.

Addressing the event, Rashtriya Janata Dal MP Manoj Jha spoke about the Shaheen Bagh agitation against the Citizenship Amendment Act and the National Register of Citizens and said it has not been given due credit.

"Success of Shaheen Bagh should not be measured on the scale of grandeur of what it achieved," Jha said.

"Remember what constituted the Shaheen Bagh protest...When the Parliament lost, the streets became alive," he said.

The protest against the new citizenship law spearheaded by women in Southeast Delhi's Shaheen Bagh continued for nearly 100 days and had inspired similar demonstrations across the country.

While Jha felt that the Shaheen Bagh agitation was successful, Khurshid was of the view that the agitation failed as many who were part of the protests continue to be in jail.

Khurshid also said that another agitation like that of Shaheen Bagh cannot take place in the country today.

"You mind if I said that Shaheen Bagh failed? A lot of us believe that Shaheen Bagh succeeded. But I know what's happening to the people who are associated with Shaheen Bagh. How many of them are still in prison? How many of them can't get bail? How many of them are being told that they are enemies of this country?" he said.

"If I ask myself tomorrow would there be a repeat of Shaheen Bagh and I'm not sure there would be because people have really suffered," he said.

AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, meanwhile, rued the low representation of Muslims in assemblies and Parliament, and also questioned if the situation for Muslims would have changed if the opposition was in power.

"The reality is Muslims have never voted for any right-wing candidate or BJP. Had there been a non-BJP government right now, would things have changed? No," he said.

Talking about the rise of the Hindu right wing, he said, "The Fuhrer (Hitler) did not invent anti-Jew sentiments... it was already there. Our society also had subterranean sentiments."

"We call Atal Bihari Vajpayee liberal... The fact of the matter is Vajpayee and Advani were creating a climate for the arrival of this gentleman," he said.

In his remarks, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said that he was among the first MPs to meet the protesters at Shaheen Bagh, and they were not just Muslims, but were people from all faiths.

"Throughout the country, and I, myself have been to seven protests. There were people of all faiths at the protest," he said.

He said there was a sense of "Indianness" in the protest.

Trinamool Congress MP Jawahar Sircar said his party has a number of Muslim MPs, and pointed to Yusuf Pathan defeating Congress's Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury in Baharampore.

He took a dig at Owaisi and said, "All seats would have gone to BJP if Owaisi would have fought.

Owaisi retorted saying Muslims are voting for them out of compulsion.

"Muslims have done a favour to your party by voting en block for you. I am not the problem. The problem is your political mindset," he said.

"I can give empirical evidence that your party has not done anything for Muslims. We are voting out of compulsion. Remember when an alternative emerges everything goes," he said.

BJP slams Khurshid, terms his remarks as 'anarchist'

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday slammed as "anarchist" Khurshid's remarks that a Bangladesh-like situation could happen in India as well.

BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy castigated Khurshid and termed his remarks "anarchist".

"He is also a member of the CWC (Congress Working Committee), this is an anarchist statement, and I think it is a kind of sedition. It's unfortunate that the Congress is resorting to such anarchist statements to hide its failure," Rudy said.

Reacting to Khurshid's remarks, BJP MP Sambit Patra claimed that Khurshid had given a warning on behalf of his party.

"This is a serious issue. When we are witnessing such a situation in neighbouring countries, the main Opposition party Congress wants the same situation in India," BJP MP Sambit Patra told reporters outside Parliament.

He asked if it was a warning from the Congress.

He claimed some other Congress leaders have made similar remarks that protests and arson would happen in India just like Bangladesh.

"This is a warning Salman Khurshid has given on behalf of the Congress. Other leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, were present at the book launch event, in a way supporting what he said," Patra said.

"What is the thought process of the Congress party? Rahul Gandhi used to say there will be arson and riots in this country, there will be attacks on the PM, why was he saying that," Patra asked.

He also questioned Gandhi's "anti-India" comments during his foreign visits.

"Does the country's main Opposition party want the same thing in India? They are not able to win elections, they are venting their frustration by promoting this kind of anarchy and pushing the country towards destruction. This conspiracy of the Congress has been exposed before the public," he said.

Asked about Khurshid's statement, Tharoor said, "You'll have to ask him exactly what he meant, it is not my job to comment on comments of others."

"Generally speaking, the larger message that the Bangladesh experience has given is the importance of democracy, of free and fair elections, transparency, engaging people in the system, making sure all institutions of democracy function fairly," he said.

"When that happens, there will be much less cause of this kind of thing to occur," he said.

Tharoor also said that India should stand with the people of Bangladesh.

"Let us hope they will have a chance to determine their own political destiny," he said.

"Student leaders who ignited the protest wanted Muhammad Yunus to preside over the transition... In the long term, I assume there will be elections," he said.

Bangladesh has plunged into uncertainty after weeks of violent street protests over job quota forced Sheikh Hasina to quit as prime minister and flee.

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament on Tuesday and appointed Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus as the head of an interim government.
When the internal security situation spirals out of the control of the provincial law and order machinery, the CAPFs can be called in, providing a security buffer before the Army is deployed.

IMAGE: Central Reserve Police Force personnel guard the Bakshi stadium ahead of Prime Minister Narendra D Modi's visit to Srinagar. All photographs: ANI Photo

In the Union Budget on July 23, the central government allocated Rs 6.21 trillion (about $75 billion) to the four wings of the military -- the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard -- for 2024-2025.

Separately, the Budget also allocated Rs 96,792 crore -- almost Rs 1 trillion -- for the slightly over 1 million men and women who constitute the seven Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).

The CAPFs, which fall under the jurisdiction of the ministry of home affairs, include the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Security Guard (NSG), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Assam Rifles (AR) and the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).

IMAGE: CRPF personnel patrol Srinagar.

Under the One Border, One Force principle, the BSF is responsible for the borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, the ITBP safeguards the India-China border, the SSB oversees the borders with Nepal and Bhutan, and the AR mans the border with Myanmar.

The Indian Army provides robust support to the BSF in safeguarding the Line of Control -- the active section of the India-Pakistan border in Kashmir. Similarly, the Army assists the ITBP in defending the Line of Actual Control with China.

IMAGE: CAPF women personnel in New Delhi.

The CAPFs are often erroneously referred to as 'paramilitary forces'. Paramilitary forces are armed police with their rank and file, led by officers on temporary deputation from the regular military. By that definition, only the AR is a paramilitary force.

The CAPFs are the penultimate intervention force of the central government.

When the internal security situation spirals out of the control of the provincial law and order machinery, the CAPFs can be called in, providing a security buffer before the Army is deployed.

This provides the central government with sizeable police forces such as the 313,634-strong CRPF and the 265,000-strong BSF, each with over a quarter of a million personnel.

Alongside them are smaller forces, such as the 163,590-strong CISF and the 90,000-strong ITBP.

During wartime, the CAPFs can be vital in ensuring security in the rear areas, roads and highways, and logistic installations behind the tactical battle area.

Capital allocation as a percentage of the defence budget

The defence budget has been criticised over the years for being short on capital allocations (the part of the Union Budget that pays for equipment modernisation) and long on personnel expenditure.

An examination of annual capital allocations over the past seven years reveals that the capital budget, as a percentage of the overall budget, has remained static between 25 per cent and 30 per cent.

Modern military powers spend more than 50 per cent of their budgets on state-of-the-art weaponry and electronics, ensuring a battle-winning technological advantage in combat.

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com
Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Wednesday said he would have brought the entire Nationalist Congress Party with him had the Bharatiya Janata Party and Shiv Sena offered him the chief minister's post.

IMAGE: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar shows his ink-marked finger after casting his vote during the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, in Pune on May 7, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Speaking at the launch of Yoddha Karmayogi - Eknath Sambhaji Shinde, a biography of the current chief minister, Pawar noted in a lighter vein that in politics he was senior to both CM Shinde and fellow deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.

Shinde and Fadnavis were also present at the book launch.

Pawar rebelled against his uncle Sharad Pawar in July 2023 and joined the BJP-Sena government by splitting the NCP.

"All went ahead and I trailed behind," Ajit Pawar said, noting that Fadnavis first became an MLA in 1999 and Shinde in 2004, while he first became a member of the state assembly way back in 1990.

Fadnavis served as chief minister twice, from 2014 to 2019 and for 72 hours in 2019 when Ajit Pawar joined hands with him in a short-lived alliance government.

"I told a few people jokingly that when you (an apparent reference to the BJP) told Eknath Shinde to come along with these many MLAs and he would be made chief minister.....You should have asked me. I would have brought the entire party along," quipped Pawar.

"Whatever happens in life is planned by destiny," Pawar said with a mock seriousness, evoking laughter.

The NCP chief has not concealed his ambition to occupy the top post in the state in the past.

Shinde led a rebellion with 39 MLAs against then Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray in 2022 which led to the collapse of the Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government. Shinde then became the chief minister.

Pawar said he has seen several chief ministers, but none like Shinde who is surrounded by people all the time.

Speaking on the occasion, Fadnavis noted that he himself is someone who became chief minister, leader of Opposition and then a deputy chief minister during a single assembly term (between 2019 and 2024).

Similarly, Pawar became deputy chief minister, the leader of Opposition and again a deputy chief minister during the same period, he said.

Speaking to reporters later, CM Shinde expressed confidence that his government would retain power after the assembly elections, thanks to its focus on development and welfare schemes over the past two years.

"The Mahayuti government has worked as a team, prioritizing both development and welfare schemes," he said.

He also announced that funds under the 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' would be credited to the accounts of eligible women across the state before the Raksha Bandhan festival.
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Partly to mostly cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 61F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 42F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Bellows Falls Union High School students use the gymnasium again on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, after tests for airborne PCBs showed the high levels had been significantly reduced. A recent new round of testing again showed elevated levels of PCBs in the gymnasium.
PAWLET  Richard Hulett, owner of Deer Flats Farm in Pawlet and a member of the towns Select Board, has been cited with two counts of misdemeanor simple assault stemming from a July 3 incident with two employees.

Vermont State Police first announced the charges in a news release at 9 p.m. Monday. The citation was issued by VSP Trooper Bruce Cleaver of the Rutland Barracks following an investigation that followed a confrontation between Hulett, 45, and farm employee Ulver Perez-Roblero, 30. VSP reports that they were first called to Deer Flats Farm, on Route 30 in West Pawlet, just before midnight on July 3.

That day, Hulett received information alleging an individual had attempted to distribute illegal narcotics on the property, according to VSP, and a confrontation ensued between Hulett and Perez-Roblero, during which Hulett assaulted Perez-Roblero as well as a juvenile who had attempted to intervene.

Perez-Roblero and the juvenile later sought treatment for minor injuries at Rutland Regional Medical Center, according to VSP and confirmed by Migrant Justice, a grassroots human rights organization led by farm workers.

The organization has since platformed the incident as part of its ongoing Milk with Dignity campaign, which began in 2014 and successfully encouraged Ben & Jerrys to adopt measures for farm worker rights and safety three years later. In 2019, Migrant Justice continued the campaign by calling on Hannaford Supermarkets to do the same, alleging rampant worker abuse in the companys supply chain.

In a statement released last year in response to the allegations, Hannaford cited a difference of opinion with Migrant Justices approach.

The concerns and issues facing agricultural workers are systemic, complex and extend far beyond Hannafords supply chain and the state of Vermont, the statement reads. The Milk with Dignity program is focused on a very small portion of the U.S. dairy supply chain, both in terms of its geographic footprint as well as the number of stakeholders involved.

According to Rachel Elliott, communications and development coordinator for Migrant Justice, Perez-Roblero first contacted the organization years ago when his employment at Deer Flats Farm was terminated after he tested positive for COVID-19 at the height of the pandemic. Both he and his pregnant wife were allegedly evicted from the property soon after, and found work elsewhere before eventually returning to the West Pawlet farm.

The employer is facing criminal charges, while workers are calling for greater protections to prevent future cases of violence against farmworkers, the organization writes in a blog post chronicling Perez-Robleros experience. The farm is in the dairy supply chain of Hannaford Supermarket, which has refused repeated calls to join Milk with Dignity, a worker-created program to protect farmworker rights.

When the alleged assault occurred in July, Elliott says that Perez-Roblero immediately contacted the organization for help. An employee from Migrant Justice transported Perez-Roblero and his nephew to the hospital and helped them file a police report, and the organization has continued to provide support ever since.

On July 18, Migrant Justice organized a demonstration at Deer Flats Farm where Perez-Roblero and his family shared their story. The event was livestreamed via Migrant Justices Facebook page.

Ulver and his family were very clear that they wanted to make this public  they wanted to denounce what had happened, Elliott said in a call with the Journal. They wanted to use their really negative experience to fight for health and safety both for themselves and others in Hannafords supply chain.

Deer Flats Farm contributes to that supply chain through its membership with the cooperative Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), Elliott said. DFA supplies milk to the dairy processor H.P. Hood, Elliott explained, which bottles Hannaford-brand milk. Prior to the incident on July 3, Elliott confirmed that the farm has been on the organizations radar.

Weve seen workplace abuses there previously and had provided support in the past, Elliott said. Those alleged abuses apparently reached a new level in July, as Perez-Roblero attested at the demonstration.

Though VSP cites Huletts suspicion of illegal drug activity as the impetus for the altercation, Elliott claims that this was in fact a misunderstanding.

This allegation stemmed from a misunderstanding across language barriers, Elliott said. No workers sold or attempted to sell drugs. This is a distraction from a brutal assault against a worker and his family that was not justified by any means.

In Spanish, Perez-Roblero claimed at the July 18 demonstration that Hulett punched him repeatedly, using his metal (prosthetic) hand, without warning until he fell to the ground. Hulett suffered a farming accident in 2021, resulting in the loss of his hand.

He kept hitting me and I wasnt able to defend myself, Perez-Roblero continued in Spanish, with translation provided by Migrant Justice staff. I pulled myself to my feet, but he cornered me against the bannister. He kept hitting me and began to choke me with the metal hand. He was holding my throat so tightly that I couldnt breathe. I started to black out and thought I was going to die.

Ultimately, it was Perez-Robleros 15-year-old nephew who intervened.

When I saw him strangling my uncle, and that there was blood coming out of his face, I went to help, the minor said at the event, also in Spanish and with translation from Migrant Justice. The boss turned around and punched me in the chest with his metal hand. I fell against the stairs, almost hitting my head.

Perez-Roblero claims that Hulett followed them into their trailer and continued to hit him and yell at him. When he tried to call for help, Perez-Roblero says that Hulett threw the phone out of his hand.

Then, Hulett allegedly took Perez-Roblero and his nephew onto a nearby lake using his motorboat. Perez-Roblero claims that he was in shock and afraid for his life, but felt like he couldnt say no.

When they eventually returned to the farm, Perez-Roblero says that Hulett refused to transport him and his nephew to the hospital, which is when the family contacted Migrant Justice. The organization reports that the two were treated for chest and facial contusions.

Soon after, the organization helped Perez-Roblero file a report with Vermont State Police.

Hulett is scheduled to be arraigned at 10 a.m. on Sept. 23, in the Criminal Division of Vermont Superior Court in Rutland. He has declined to comment at this time, as has Perez-Roblero.
New Zealands largest telco Spark is consulting staff as it looks to better align some of its business and government services teams.

The news comes after the company repeatedly alerted shareholders to softening market conditions.

Like all businesses we have experienced tough economic conditions during the last year, a spokesperson told Reseller News yesterday.

In response to this, and to ensure we continue to deliver great outcomes for our customers in the future, we have been exploring changes to our operating model at Spark.

As part of that work, Spark said it was consulting with people in its enterprise and government division on how it could bring its subsidiary businesses closer together, remove duplication, improve efficiency and deliver better experiences for customers.

We do not have any intention to remove our subsidiary brands at this time, the company said.
Armenia and Azerbaijan are nearly finished hammering out a peace agreement that would finally end their decades-old conflict. But in recent months one issue has emerged that is threatening to scuttle the entire process.

The Armenian Constitution contains language that Baku says amounts to official Armenian claims against its territory: a reference to "reunification" with Nagorno-Karabakh, the territory at the heart of the two countries' conflict.

That clause "clearly poses a territorial threat to Azerbaijan," Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said at a July 20 press conference."So, [while] this paragraph is there, a peace agreement is not possible."

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has signaled that he is willing to alter the document in the way that Aliyev wants and has tasked a council of politicians and activists to draw up a new document to be put to the Armenian people in a referendum.

But as the issue has risen to the top of the agenda between the two foes, the perception that their main enemy is dictating the content of their country's constitution has rankled Armenians upset at the concessions they have already made. And since a referendum may be required to change the constitution, the Azerbaijani pressure could prove fatal.

Problematic Preamble

Voters in Yerevan recently surveyed by RFE/RL's Armenian Service were largely opposed to changing the constitution. Pashinian "doesn't have the right" to change the constitution, "especially since it is Aliyev who is demanding it be changed," one man said. "Who is Aliyev to order us to change our constitution?"

Azerbaijani leaders, though, remain confident that they will get their way.

"It's not about doing it under pressure from Azerbaijan, but it's about you answering one question: Do you want peace or do you want a possibility for a new confrontation with Azerbaijan?" Elcin Amirbayov, Aliyev's senior envoy for special assignments who has been closely involved in the negotiations, told RFE/RL.

"If they put it that way, I think a majority of Armenian people who would participate in that plebiscite or referendum, I'm sure that they would support peace."

At issue is a reference in the preamble of the current Armenian Constitution to a 1990 declaration of independence -- when Armenia was still part of the Soviet Union -- that calls for the reunification of Armenia and what was then the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast, part of Soviet Azerbaijan.

Nagorno-Karabakh was populated largely by ethnic Armenians, and as the Soviet Union collapsed, war over the territory broke out and Armenian-backed separatists managed to seize control. They also took control of seven adjacent Azerbaijani districts, forcing the entire population of more than 600,000 ethnic Azerbaijanis to flee.

Diplomatic efforts to settle the conflict brought little progress. The two sides fought another war in 2020 that lasted six weeks before a Russian-brokered cease-fire, resulting in Armenia losing control over parts of the region and the seven adjacent districts. In 2022 the two sides started negotiations over a full resolution over the conflict. But the following year, Azerbaijan, impatient with the progress of those talks, launched a one-day offensive that resulted in the Karabakh leadership's full surrender and the exodus of more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians.

In the course of the post-2020 negotiations, Pashinian has said he is willing to formally recognize Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. But Azerbaijan argues that, as long as the claim to Karabakh remains enshrined in Armenian law, there will be a danger of post-Pashinian governments going back on that declaration and relitigating its claims to Karabakh.

"We want to be reassured that the peace agreement is a kind of a solemn treaty that would render impossible any return to revanchism or to any territorial claims to Azerbaijan in the future as it had done in the past," Amirbayov said. "Territorial claims against Azerbaijan that are embedded in the current Armenian Constitution continue to remain the main, and I would say pretty much the only, obstacle to further progress in the peace process."

Armenia, for its part, argues that Azerbaijan's demand amounts to meddling in its internal affairs -- and moreover, is designed to sabotage the entire process. Azerbaijan's public demand to change the constitution "torpedoes the peace process and casts doubts on the sincerity of the leadership of Azerbaijan to achieve peace," the Armenian Foreign Ministry said in a June 7 statement.

Amirbayov rejected that argument: "How can we in Azerbaijan consider this to be an internal issue when it deals with our sovereign territories?"

'Real Armenia Vs. Historical Armenia'

Pashinian's own agenda with respect to the constitution has been ambiguous.

"He began changing the constitution soon after coming to power in 2018, but his focus was initially on internal governance issues. In 2022, he formed a new Constitutional Reform Council to work on amendments to the current document. This year, though, he asked the council to instead draft an entirely new constitution, apparently blindsiding the participants.

"There are lots of issues that are not clear to us," Artur Sakunts, a human rights advocate and member of the council, told RFE/RL's Armenian Service in June.

In the meantime, Pashinian had begun talking about the need to remove the contentious language from the constitution. In one interview in January, he said that keeping the controversial reference "means that we'll never have peace."

In July, on the occasion of Armenia's Constitution Day, the Armenian president said that the current document is "[immersed] in deep socio-psychological conflict" and should reflect the interests of "real people living in Real Armenia," a trope that Pashinian has developed to contrast to what he calls "Historical Armenia," the maximalist dream of recovering lost lands. The new constitution, he continued, should "create a just environment in its internationally recognized territory."

It remains unclear, though, how these ambitions will be implemented by the Constitutional Council.

Members of the council told reporters in June that they did not discuss the declaration of independence issue in their first meeting since being instructed to draft a new constitution. And several members of the council appear to be at odds with Pashinian on the issue.

Sakunts said he opposed removing the reference to the declaration of independence. Another member, Daniel Ioanissian, wrote on Facebook: "Ilham Aliyev is not a citizen of Armenia. Many things can be discussed with him but not the future constitution of Armenia."

Pashinian's council is supposed to produce a document by the end of 2026, which would then be put to voters in a 2027 referendum. Even if Armenians did ratify the constitution, that would present a significant delay to a process that all parties agree is otherwise very close to being finished.

The June statement from the Armenian Foreign Ministry said an agreement could be reached "within the next month." Aliyev said that "80 to 90 percent of the text is agreed on." U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, ahead of a July 10 meeting with his Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts, said the two sides were "very close to being able to reach a final agreement, one that the United States would strongly, strongly support."

The Other Sticking Point

One factor that is easing the negotiations, according to Amirbayov, is that the two sides have agreed to put off the most contentious remaining issue: how to arrange the transportation routes that have become known as the "Zangezur Corridor." The proposed Zangezur Corridor would connect mainland Azerbaijan to its Naxcivan exclave by traversing the Syunik Province (known by Azerbaijanis as Zangezur) in southern Armenia.

"On mutual agreement, we decided to take this paragraph out of the peace agreement and to refer it to a later stage," he said. "I don't want to complicate even further the task of finalizing the peace agreement. So, we decided to take it out of the text, but we can still reflect in the text [on] the fact that this is one of the other issues on which the countries may come back at some point to discuss and to come to a common agreement."

The Armenian Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

Even without the knotty transportation issue to contend with, the standoff over the Armenian Constitution threatens to delay a signing of an agreement indefinitely.

Azerbaijan has recently proposed a kind of interim "basic principles" agreement that could be signed before a full peace agreement -- for Azerbaijan, ideally before the COP29 climate summit, which is scheduled to be held in Baku in November. Armenian officials have objected, though, saying that the full agreement is nearly ready and an interim agreement would only allow Baku to drag out the process and add more conditions.

"It's not that the issue itself [of the reunification language in the constitution] is not valid, but it's the way it's been raised, this rather public, confrontational way rather than something to be overcome through quiet negotiation," said Thomas de Waal, a senior fellow at Carnegie Europe.

It is characteristic of Baku's "coercive diplomacy" since 2020, de Waal said. "They think this tactic works, [and] they don't seem to have another tactic," he said. Rather than publicly emphasizing cooperation with Armenia's government, "it's all about what the Pashinian government needs to do to meet our demands."

The only other explanation "for the constitutional demands" is that Azerbaijan "isn't desperate for a peace agreement," de Waal said. Even if Azerbaijan holds firm on the demand to change the constitution before a full agreement could be reached, Armenia likely would accede to a "basic principles" document, said Richard Giragosian, the head of the Yerevan-based Regional Studies Center think tank.

"We're not going to refuse an opportunity to reach some kind of agreement," he said. "In an ideal world, let's keep moving [toward] a full bilateral peace treaty and close the issue, turn the page. But we are, in Armenia, I think, willing to settle for whatever the hell we can get, to be quite honest."

Hard Bargaining

As the negotiations have progressed, Armenia has already agreed to other unilateral concessions. This spring, Pashinian agreed to return four slices of land along Armenia and Azerbaijan's northern border, which Armenia had occupied since the 1990s, to Azerbaijan. He did so without getting Azerbaijan to reciprocate -- as many Armenians had hoped -- by withdrawing its troops that have occupied small slices of Armenian territory after a series of incursions after the 2020 war.

Pashinian has repeatedly justified the concessions as being the cost of avoiding an attack from Azerbaijan. Not returning the land along the northern border, he said in March, would "mean a war will break out at the end of the week."

While Azerbaijan's hardball tactics have worked as long as it is Pashinian making the decisions, it will be more complicated when Armenian voters have to weigh in to ratify what they perceive as Aliyev's demands.

If Azerbaijan's demands were reflected in the new constitution, Armenians would vote it down in the referendum, said another member of Pashinian's constitutional council, Edmon Marukian. This, he told RFE/RL's Armenian Service, would give Baku a "pretext for a new war."

"That is why I believe we must not touch the preamble to the constitution or get into any discussion of this," he said."This is a trap."
SOFIA -- The government's recommendation to give the highest state award to Georgi Yordanov, a former culture minister closely associated with the communist regime of Todor Zhivkov, has sparked outrage and political debate in Bulgaria.

With Bulgaria facing its seventh general election in three years amid an ongoing political crisis, the cabinet of the caretaker government recently decided to award Yordanov -- a senior and influential Communist Party apparatchik who turned 90 this year -- the prestigious Stara Planina Order of the first degree.

Yordanov would be the first senior party official to receive the prestigious award in the postcommunist period, and critics have said it would be disrespectful to the victims of communism and whitewash Bulgaria's troubled past.

Atanas Atanasov, a leader of the reformist We Continue The Change-Democratic Bulgaria coalition, told parliament on August 1 that he strongly opposed the nomination and reminded parliament of the 2000 law that declared the communist regime criminal. His comments sparked a heated debate when representatives from the Bulgarian Socialist Party, the successor of the Communist Party, confronted him at the rostrum.

Yordanov's supporters have defended the former communist minister, saying that, by promoting the country's culture and heritage, he was a great global ambassador for Bulgaria. They point to his role in organizing international exhibitions of Thracian treasure found in Bulgaria and the promotion of Bulgarian folk and classical music abroad.

Agitprop

Born in 1934, Yordanov rose through the ranks of the Communist Party, working in the propaganda and agitation department, which was connected to the Komsomol, the party's youth wing.

Yordanov was reportedly close to Lyudmila Zhivkova, the daughter of the communist leader who was known for her role in promoting Bulgarian arts and culture internationally.

Despite his brief tenure as culture minister from 1987 to November 1989, Yordanov was a critical figure in the 1980s, implementing the Communist Party's policies of control, censorship, and prohibition of any artistic creations that did not align with the official ideology.

Since 1982, Yordanov served as the chairman of the Committee for Culture at a ministerial level, and, since 1986, he was the head of the Council for Spiritual Development, a body that regulated religious and cultural activities.

The decision to honor Yordanov, initiated by acting Culture Minister Nayden Todorov, cites Yordanov's "contribution to the spiritual upliftment of the nation." That particular turn of phrase has raised eyebrows in Bulgaria, redolent of the ruling party's nationalist rhetoric in the final years of the communist regime.

In the late 1980s, Bulgaria's communist government launched a forced assimilation campaign against the ethnic Turkish minority. The campaign attempted to restrict the use of the Turkish language and mandated that ethnic Turks use Slavic versions of their names.

However, the integration effort was strongly resisted by the Turkish minority, which led to the expulsion in 1989 of nearly 320,000 ethnic Turks and their forced migration to Turkey.

Communist Party and intelligence service archives have revealed that Yordanov was involved in Politburo discussions on how to deport the Bulgarian Turks in 1989. "Our country has an interest in spilling some blood," Yordanov was quoted as saying in a Politburo meeting. "That which is unclean must expire."

Nostalgia For Communism

Nearly 35 years after the fall of communism, Bulgaria is still struggling to come to terms with the injustices of its authoritarian past. Campaigners for historical justice have criticized Bulgaria's limited lustration, feeble public education, and only the partial opening of the security service's archive.

The 2000 law that declared the communist regime criminal, which was referred to in parliament by Atanasov, has been repeatedly criticized for not providing a framework with which to punish perpetrators of political crimes in the communist era.

While Yordanov would be the first senior leader to be given the Stara Planina Order, it is not the first time that Bulgarians with ties to the communist regime have been honored by the state. Under President Rumen Radev, previous recipients of the state awards have included a businessman with ties to Multigrup, a conglomerate associated with the communist secret police, and a former agent for the security services. Radev was nominated for the presidency -- an influential but ceremonial position -- by the Bulgarian Socialist Party and his pro-Russian statements have been popular among his supporters.

Nostalgia for communism and the Soviet period goes hand in hand with anti-Western, antidemocratic, and pro-Russian sentiments. These views are represented in parliament by the Bulgarian Socialist Party and the far-right Revival and Greatness parties.

Bulgaria is still blighted by high-level corruption and organized crime, much of it involving shadowy business networks with ties to the former communist secret police. Many former communist officials are still active in key political positions.

The Stara Planina Order, named after a famous Balkan mountain range, is given to Bulgarian citizens or foreign nationals for their outstanding achievements and service to Bulgaria. The order of the first degree is only given to the most distinguished recipients.
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
Welcome back to the China In Eurasia briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter tracking China's resurgent influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia. Subscribe here.

I'm RFE/RL correspondent Reid Standish and here's what I'm following right now.

An Evolving Fight On Sanctions

Chinese banks have tightened their restrictions on payments from Russia out of fear of triggering U.S. secondary sanctions.

Will this make an impact in choking off Russias war machine?

Finding Perspective: The latest batch of information on this comes from the Russian newspaper Kommersant, which reported at the end of July that trade between Russia and China is getting ever more difficult, with some payments between partners taking up to six months to be processed.

About 80 percent of bank transfers made in the Chinese yuan are also getting bounced back with no explanation after being stalled for weeks while banks decide whether they can go ahead, the newspaper reported, citing anonymous sources.

This follows a report from July 17 by Bloomberg in which several major Russian commodity exporters said that trade with China had become increasingly difficult due to direct payments made in the Chinese yuan getting stuck indefinitely or delayed.

In June, the Russian division of the Bank of China stopped processing yuan payments with Russian banks that had been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department.

The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), China CITIC Bank, and most other large Chinese lenders have made similar moves.

How Did We Get Here? Beijing has emerged as a top partner for Russia since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with analyses of Chinese customs data showing that in 2023 90 percent of dual-use goods deemed high priority and used to make Russian weapons came from China.

The United States and its allies have been intensifying restrictions in recent months after multiple senior U.S. officials said that the supply of dual-use goods by China has had a substantial impact for Russian forces on the battlefield.

This latest round of pressure originated back in December 2023 when the United States authorized secondary sanctions targeting financial institutions involved in trade linked to Russia's military industry.

This prompted global banks from China to the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Austria to reduce transactions with Russia to avoid getting in the crosshairs.

The payment issues were also exacerbated in June when the U.S. Treasury rolled out a new package of expansive sanctions against Russia for its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, forcing the Moscow Exchange to halt dollar and euro trade.

Why It Matters: Sanctions and finding ways around them is a constant game of cat and mouse.

In early July, a top Russian banker said the sanctions-evading methods should be made a state secret because they kept getting shut down so fast.

Andrei Kostin, the head of Russias second largest lender VTB and the banker who made those comments, called for a greater use of cryptocurrencies and other digital assets to facilitate payments, something that Bloomberg reported is increasingly being done in Hong Kong via Central Asia-based intermediaries at a growing frequency.

Worried about being targeted by U.S. secondary sanctions, Chinas big banks have limited their cross-border transactions involving Russia and Russian firms of late, with Chinese companies that trade with Russia instead moving to smaller banks or underground financing channels that are difficult to track and have less exposure to the international financial system.

Tom Keatinge, director of the Center for Financial Crime and Security Studies at the Royal United Services Institute, told me that this makes up a burner bank strategy.

This is where Chinas trade with Russia becomes concentrated increasingly into institutions that are unlikely to have a contagion effect on the countrys economy and that also are set up with no need for access to the international banking system and thereby limit the reach of U.S. sanctions.

Three More Stories From Eurasia

1. Brazil, China, And The Ukraine War

Beijing announced that a joint Brazilian-Chinese plan to end Russia's war against Ukraine has received a positive response from more than 110 countries.

The Details: The August 1 statement came following a visit to Brazil by Li Hui, Chinas special envoy for Eurasian affairs, where he met with multiple high-ranking Brazilian officials.

China and Brazil jointly published a six-point consensus meant to bring about a lasting political solution to the war.

At the beginning of May, Li made a series of visits to countries across the Global South, as did Brazilian officials, as they crafted this new set of proposals.

Chinas previous attempt to mediate between Russia and Ukraine, with a 12-point plan it put forward in February 2023, was quickly dismissed by European leaders.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has strong working ties with China and looked for his country to play a role in pushing for a peace process to end the war in Ukraine.

The six-point plan is a fairly bland diplomatic outline that calls for cooling down fighting on the battlefield and a recognition that dialogue and negotiations are the only way to end the war.

During a July visit to China by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, he praised China as a global force for peace and said that Kyiv was open to peace talks.

But Kuleba also made clear that Ukraine attached conditions to such negotiations, saying it would only engage Russia when Moscow was ready to negotiate in good faith, and added that no such readiness is currently observed on the Russian side.

2. Boots On The Ground?

As Chinas investments in Central Asia have grown over the last two decades, Chinese companies have also faced a growing list of new security challenges.

Odil Gafarov, writing for the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, looks at the rise of Chinese private security companies (PSCs) in the region.

What You Need To Know: This phenomenon is not unique to Central Asia and has already grown in unison with Chinas expanding economic footprint in places like Africa and Southeast Asia.

The expansion of PSCs operating in Central Asia have gone hand-in-hand with incidents like clashes between Chinese and local personnel at oil refineries and gold mines in Kyrgyzstan in 2014 and 2019, the 2016 suicide bombing at the Chinese embassy in Bishkek, and numerous anti-China protests in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan over the years.

As Gafarov notes, these companies offer both armed and unarmed site protection, security consulting, safety training, insurance provision, and logistical support.

The report notes that most of the companies do not fit the connotation of private security personnel operating in tactical gear and instead says that many of the Chinese PSCs prefer to keep their presence less visible.

The number of PSCs operating is also set to grow in the coming years and line up with other aspects of Chinese foreign policy in Central Asia.

It aligns with Chinas modern security diplomacy, police/paramilitary cooperation, and recently adopted Global Security Initiative. From this perspective, these entities potentially present an attractive instrument for advancing Beijings geopolitical agenda, the report stated.

3. Drone Clampdown

The Chinese Commerce Ministry announced that it will ban the export of all drones that can be used for military purposes starting September 1, RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service reported.

What It Means: Small and affordable consumer drones, many of which can even be bought online or off the shelf, have become a staple of the war in Ukraine for both Kyiv and Moscow for reconnaissance and targeted attacks.

This has led to both sides burning through the products at a high rate and constantly needing to replenish their stocks. China is the largest manufacturer of consumer unmanned aerial vehicles.

While the latest announcement points to the added scrutiny from the West against Chinese companies over the flow of dual-use equipment to the battlefield in Ukraine, its unclear if this move will make a significant impact.

DJI -- the preeminent Chinese drone maker -- first said it would stop doing business in Russia and Ukraine nearly two years ago, yet the flow of its products continues. The Chinese Commerce Ministry has also enacted multiple measures to limit the flow of drones, but both Kyiv and Moscow have managed to secure a continued flow to their forces.

Across The Supercontinent

Previewing Kallas: Former Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas will be taking over as the European Union's new foreign policy chief, but what does her past record tell us about how she'd deal with China?

The South China Morning Posts Finbarr Bermingham takes a look here.

Scooting Forward: With a $10 million investment, the Uzbek-Chinese company Ecomoto is scheduled to begin manufacturing electric scooters in Uzbekistan.

Beijings New Man In Berlin: Deng Hongbo, a seasoned Chinese diplomat with decades of experience in the United States, is slated to be Beijings next ambassador to Germany, the South China Morning Post reports.

One Trillion Dollars?: Chinese authorities have rejected a $ 1 trillion proposal made by the International Monetary Fund to use central government funds to complete unfinished housing in China, Bloomberg reports.

One Thing To Watch

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate on the Democratic ticket.

Walz doesnt bring a great deal of foreign policy experience, but he did live and work in China as an English teacher in 1989. Since then, he says he has visited the country at least 30 times and even speaks some Mandarin. Walz also honeymooned in China with his wife and organized summer educational trips to China for U.S. students.

The Minnesota governor also became an outspoken advocate for human rights in the country, meeting with the Dalai Lama. While teaching, he also visited the Tiananmen Square protests under way in 1989 before the massacre that year.

Walz and his wife also got married on June 4, the anniversary of the Tiananmen massacre of student protesters. When asked why that date was chosen, his wife said it was because Walz wanted to have a date hell always remember.

Thats all from me for now. Dont forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you might have.

Until next time,

Reid Standish

If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your inbox every Wednesday.
One year ago, Hamas -- the U.S.- and EU-designated Palestinian terrorist group that controls the Gaza Strip -- carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel, the deadliest in the countrys history.

In response, Israel launched an aerial bombardment and ground invasion of the Palestinian enclave to destroy Hamas and rescue the 251 hostages taken by the group.

Israel has expanded its war in recent weeks by invading Lebanon and launching air strikes targeting Hezbollah, the armed group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon.

RFE/RL spoke to Lior Yohanani, manager of quantitative research at the Israel Democracy Institute, a Jerusalem-based independent research center, which on October 7 released a wide-ranging survey of Israeli public opinion after one year of war.

RFE/RL: Can you explain what your study found as to how Israelis view the past year since Hamas's October 7 attack?



Lior Yohanani: Well, I think Israelis still don't see October 7 as an event that's over. Sure, the actual horrific events of that day ended, but Israelis are still living with the consequences.

There are two main aspects to this. First, since October 7, Israel has been in this multifront war that doesn't seem to have an end in sight. And then, of course, there is the issue of the hostages still being held in Gaza. So, we're seeing a sharp drop in people's sense of personal security. Almost three quarters of the public feel less safe compared to before October 7, and that's despite a year of war and some significant military achievements. On the flip side, we're also seeing that most people say their lives have returned to normal when it comes to things like work, media consumption, and family and social gatherings.

Another thing we're noticing is that the Israeli public is giving pretty low marks to all the political and military leaders for the performance since October 7. For example, almost two-thirds of Israelis are rating Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu's performance since then as poor or not good.

RFE/RL: How has Israel's involvement in a two-front conflict, in both Gaza and Lebanon, as well as a confrontation with Iran affected public opinion among Israelis?



Yohanani: It's tough to answer that question, because we're at the point where things could go in a few different directions. In the last few weeks, we've seen a major escalation in the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, and just last week, Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, which Israel is expected to respond to. In a survey we just did recently, we asked whether Israeli society and the military could handle fighting on two or more fronts for an extended period of time, and the results were pretty striking. Over 70 percent believe that yes, both Israeli society and the military can handle that kind of prolonged fighting. So, while the situation is complex and evolving, there seems to be a strong sense of resilience and capability among Israelis, even in the face of these multiple threats. But of course, public opinion could shift depending on how events unfold in the coming weeks or months.



RFE/RL: Is there support for Netanyahus response to October 7? Is there debate in Israeli society, as well as political circles, over Netanyahus strategic choices?



Yohanani: First of all, it's important to say that the Israeli public has largely supported significant military operation against Hamas in Gaza. That said, the Israeli discourse around the October 7 events, the ongoing war, and especially toward Prime Minister Netanyahu, is very polarized between right-wing supporters on the one hand and left and center supporters on the other.

People are hoping for a future where Israel can exist without constant threats, rather than expecting a harmonious relationship with its neighbors in the near-term."

So, on the left and the center, there is a high level of distrust and suspicion toward Netanyahu and his government. For instance, Netanyahu's apparent reluctance to pursue a deal for returning the hostages in exchange for ending the fighting in Gaza is seen by large parts of the public, even on the right, as resulting from Netanyahu's dependence on far-right, ultranationalist members of his government who refuse any compromise or ceasefire.

Now for a long time, Netanyahu and his ministers argued that only significant military force would lead Hamas to compromise and release the hostages. Now, with military attention and resources shifting to the north, people are asking, where is this massive military force that was supposed to bring the hostages home?

One question we have asked several times since October 7 in our polls is what should be the main goal in Gaza: Dismantling Hamas or bringing back the hostages? And as time goes on, public opinion is increasingly supporting the return of hostages. In our current survey, 62 percent saw bringing the bringing back the hostages as Israel's main goal, while only 29 percent pointed to dismantling Hamas as the primary objective.

RFE/RL: How do ordinary Israelis see the question of the remaining hostages amid the continued protests by the hostages' families?



Yohanani: As I mentioned before, most of the public supports a deal to release the hostages, even if it means ending the war and withdrawing the military forces from Gaza. There's this widespread feeling that we've left the hostages behind, and that's really hitting at our sense of solidarity, which is a deep and fundamental value, I think, in Jewish history in general and in Israel society in particular.

At the same time, the campaign run by the Hostages And Missing Families Forum has become very politicized. Many right-wing supporters see it as weakening Israel. As time goes on, we're seeing more and more harassment of protesters who support bringing the hostages back. There are cases of passersby cursing, even hitting and throwing eggs, at hostages' families. In our latest survey, we asked about the effectiveness of the protests and actions taken by the hostages' families.

Despite most of the public feeling empathetic toward the hostage issue, only less than a third think these actions are actually helping to advance a deal for the hostages' release, while almost 40 percent think they're actually hurting the cause. So, you've got this complex situation where people want the hostages back, but there is disagreement and some backlash about how to make that happen.

RFE/RL: Can you explain the reasons behind the apparent contradiction in views regarding prioritizing a negotiated return of the hostages, or destroying Hamas?

Yohanani: You're right to point out that apparent contradiction. Let me break it down a bit. As I mentioned earlier, a clear majority of the public sees a deal to release the hostages as the main goal. But there is a big gap between political camps on this issue. In the center and left, about 80 percent support the deal for the hostages' release, while the opinions on the right are evenly split. So, for most of the left and center, the fighting in Gaza has run its course. They feel most military objectives have been achieved, and Hamas's military power has been significantly weakened. From their perspective, continuing the fight now only puts the hostages at greater risk.

It's important to know that about half of the right-wing also shares this view of prioritizing the hostages' release, but the other half of those on the far-right thinks dismantling Hamas is more important.

Why? For a couple of reasons.

First, there's a security stance that Hamas must be wiped out and not allowed to recover. There is also a very strong sentiment of revenge, with minimal consideration for the cost, whether it's the lives of the hostages, soldiers, let alone innocent civilians in Gaza. Another significant component openly discussed in religious nationalist circles is the return of Jewish settlement to the Gaza Strip after Israel evacuated Jewish settlements from there in 2005.

RFE/RL: Is there public confidence that Israel will ultimately be able to remove the threat of Hamas and Hezbollah and come out of this conflict with greater prospects for a peaceful and stable near-term future?



Yohanani: Right now, the Israeli public isn't showing a lot of optimism. In our current survey, when we asked people if they're optimistic or pessimistic about Israel's future, we found more pessimists, 48 percent, than optimists, 45 percent.

I also think it's important to note that a peaceful future, as you put it, or peace in general, isn't really a common concept in the current Israeli discourse. I would say the hope of Israelis is that the military actions against Hezbollah and Iran will lead to a situation where Israel's existence isn't in question, and that Israeli military superiority will prevent events like October 7 from happening again. So, it's less about peace in the traditional sense, and more about security and deterrence. People are hoping for a future where Israel can exist without constant threats, rather than expecting a harmonious relationship with its neighbors in the near-term.
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A 39-year-old pianist has died in a Russian pretrial detention facility after staging a dry hunger strike in protest against his country's invasion of Ukraine. Pavel Kushnir had been charged with inciting terrorism after making anti-war videos on a YouTube channel that had just five subscribers.
Timothy Snyder, a professor of history at Yale University and the author of books including Bloodlands and The Road To Unfreedom, spoke to Sashko Shevchenko of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service about possible scenarios for ending Russia's war against Ukraine, what the collapse of Russia as an empire could look like, the current mobilization efforts in Ukraine, and other matters related to the war.

RFE/RL: You have said in one of your lectures that history does not repeat itself, although a widespread saying claims the opposite. Is this a reason for optimism for Ukrainians who think that the Ukrainian nation has repeatedly made the same mistakes in its relations with Russia? Will they learn the lessons of the past?

Ukraine can win if Ukraine controls the north coast to the Black Sea. Ukraine can win if it is able to make it too costly for Russia to continue the war."

Timothy Snyder: If history did repeat, then none of us would be free. If history repeated, [it] would be like a song on the radio that we just listen to and can't change. But it's not like a song on the radio. You can use history to see patterns. You can use history to learn. You can use history even to anticipate things sometimes. But inside history, there are always the people thinking about the moment that they're in [and] doing unpredictable things.

The history of Ukraine is very long, and many interesting things have happened. The episode with Russia is actually a small part of the history of Ukraine. The more I learn about [it], the more the history of Ukraine invites me to think about different human possibilities. It's not that it makes you optimistic; it makes you realize how many open possibilities there are.

RFE/RL: For Ukrainians, whats stake in this war is the question of preserving the Ukrainian state. Is there a real chance that Ukrainians could lose their statehood? Could the West allow this to happen? Taking into account how history works, is this a real possibility?

Snyder: Anything is possible. From a historical point of view, the side with a larger economy usually wins. Ukraine should be the side because it should be backed by the United States, Canada, most European countries, [and] to some extent South Korea, Japan. If those countries mobilize their economies just a little bit, Ukraine will eventually win the war. That's one historical generality.

It's only going to end when Ukraine wins. If you want it to end, the best way to talk about it is [by saying] it should end."

Another is that wars are fought in territory and not in people's minds. The Russians have been quite good at getting inside the minds of people in the West and distracting us from basic territorial realities. Ukraine can win if Ukraine controls the north coast to the Black Sea. Ukraine can win if it is able to make it too costly for Russia to continue the war.

I believe those things are possible, but no historian and no political scientist can tell you what's going to happen. It's possible for Ukraine to win this war if it has the support of its allies, if we focus on controlling the correct territories, and we understand that war is essentially political, not psychological. It's not about our feelings; it's about how long [Russian President Vladimir] Putin politically can keep doing what he's doing.

RFE/RL: Western leaders say they support Ukraine so that it has a strong position in future negotiations. Will such negotiations be actually possible? What will they look like?

Snyder: It's a tricky question for me because I'm not a diplomat. I can only say that the best negotiating position is when you've won the war. The distinction people make between a strong negotiating position and winning the war is not a distinction I think is really valid. If you want Ukraine to be in a strong negotiating position, that means you want them to win the war. And you should say so, because that's much clearer.

Defeating Russia in war is the best thing that we could do for Russia. What happens in Russia, though, after that is up to the Russians."

It also leads to more effective action because the language about helping Ukraine as long as it takes or the language about Ukraine prevailing or the language about Russia not winning is practically unclear. But if you start talking about winning, then you think, OK, what can I do to make a victory possible? And that leads to a different political dynamic or a different institutional dynamic. It's also the most humane way to talk about the war, because it's only going to end when Ukraine wins. If you want it to end, the best way to talk about it is [by saying] it should end.

I've been trying to get Americans to talk about winning since March or April 2022, and they have been moving in that direction. It's just been frustratingly slow. I don't want to promise you anything that's not going to happen, but I do think that they are slowly moving in that direction. It'll be interesting to see what the Biden administration does now because they are, in a way, liberated. They don't have to worry so much about the election or about what the press says. I think they're going to have much more of a free hand in the next four to five months.

RFE/RL: There also is a popular idea that every empire eventually falls. Do you think Russia will inevitably disintegrate into ethnic states?

Snyder: I have a very specific view, which is that it's good for empires to lose wars. They don't always lose them, but it's good for them to lose. Poland, Germany, Italy -- these are all postimperial countries. Spain, France, Britain -- these are postimperial countries. This thing called European integration is a postimperial phenomenon. In daily political practice, trying to maintain an empire is inconsistent with trying to maintain the rule of law or human rights at home.

I personally don't think the Russian Federation will fall apart. But what I'm sure of is that it's not going to be America that does it."

One sees that with Russia, they're obviously trying to just carry out a genocide in Ukraine, but the war makes it impossible for any kind of normal politics to function in Russia. Do I think the Russian Empire has to fall apart? The Russian state could continue without being an empire. That's also possible. I think that's more likely.

But I think Americans and Ukrainians and others should think about it this way: Defeating Russia in war is the best thing that we could do for Russia. What happens in Russia, though, after that is up to the Russians, up to the people who live on that territory. I'd put it that way. It would be good for them to lose this war, just like it was good for France to lose in Algeria, just like it was good for Germany to lose in 1945.

RFE/RL: There is an impression that people in the West are afraid of Russia's possible disintegration in the same way they feared the disintegration of the Soviet Union. How does one convince Western societies that nuclear proliferation will not be a problem and that Ukrainians should not pay for this fear with their lives?

Snyder: That's a good question. The problem in a way is that we overestimate our own power. We didn't want Yugoslavia to fall apart. It fell apart. We didn't want Czechoslovakia to fall apart. It fell apart. We didn't want the Soviet Union to fall apart. I'm just going to stop on that moment because there's so much myth around that now, largely thanks to the Russians. But the Americans were working really hard in 1991 to keep the Soviet Union together. That's what we wanted. But we couldn't do it.

People always feel safer when they're doing nothing. But you have to compare risks."

What we should be learning is that we don't actually have that much control. I personally don't think the Russian Federation will fall apart. But what I'm sure of is that it's not going to be America that does it. It'll be Russians or Chechens or Bashkirs. It won't be us. Our policy probably won't make any difference.

What happens is that we get trapped in our own vanity. We think we control so much, but we don't really control whether Russia falls apart or not. If Russia falls apart because Putin fought a stupid war, that won't be our fault. It's a possible scenario we should prepare for. But what we shouldn't think is, We have to stop that, because that's not our job and we can't even if we wanted to. That's not the kind of thing that we in the West have the power to do.

That fear is understandable, but I think it becomes a kind of excuse because people always feel safer when they're doing nothing. But you have to compare risks. The risk of Russia destroying Ukraine, carrying out a genocide, becoming more powerful, preparing the way for a Chinese-led world order, and so forth is much greater than the risk of Russia losing the war and then Russians deciding, OK, now that we've lost a war, what are we going to do?

Personally, I think it would be fine for Russia to be in a moment like they were in 1905 when they lost to Japan. Their attitude toward Japan was very similar: We can't possibly lose this war. It's an inferior country, inferior culture. Then when they lost, they had some elections and land reform and they thought about things. It wouldn't be bad for Russia for that to happen [again]. If Russia does lose, the outcome is probably going to be a good one.

RFE/RL: One of the main topics in Ukraine is mobilization and the fact that not many volunteers are left. According to a recent opinion poll by [the Ukrainian think tank] Razumkov Center, only 30 percent of Ukrainians believe it is shameful to hide from conscription. From a historical point of view, how important is the capacity to mobilize new soldiers and to motivate the population? Is it possible to win a war when the people arent motivated to join the military?

Snyder: We're in a different kind of war now. Ukrainians have shown a remarkable willingness to defend their country and in the previous 2 1/2 years have made enormous sacrifices on a scale which I think most Western societies would have trouble even imagining. The polling about mobilization now has to be taken in that context.

We can have this conversation. In Russia, we'd immediately be in prison if we talked about people not mobilizing. We'd literally be breaking the law."

The sort of war we're in now is going to be won by drones and anti-drone protection and is going to be won by airplanes. It's going to be won by destroying Russian airfields. It's going to be won by destroying the bridge at Kerch. It's going to be won by making it impossible for Russia to do anything else. Russia's in a position where they think they have to take all the Donbas. They think they have to keep taking territory.

It's true that there are fewer Ukrainians [willing to fight], and it's true the Ukrainians are fighting alone. It's reasonable for Ukrainian authorities to be planning for a war where they're going to make it impossible for Russia to continue rather than trying to forcibly push away every Russian soldier on Ukrainian territory.

Certainly, willingness to fight is a factor on the Ukrainian side as well as on the Russian side. It's kind of a race to see where it gets worse first. The Russians are now losing a lot of men to gain very little territory, and they're telling ever-worse stories about why they're doing it.

[We know more about this issue in Ukraine, because] Ukraine is a democracy, it's a country where people have freedom of discussion; it's different in Ukraine than in Russia. We can have this conversation. In Russia, we'd immediately be in prison if we talked about people not mobilizing. We'd literally be breaking the law.

But that doesn't mean that in Russia it's not an issue. In Russia it becomes a political issue. Its important but inside these larger contexts.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Vinesh Phogat! End Of An Era

Although it was a new kind of setback for the 29-year-old wrestler her struggle has been such since the Rio Olympics 2016

Vinesh Phogat was on the verge of scripting history as she was most likely to become the first Indian woman wrestler to have won a Gold medal in the history of the Olympics. However, the destiny had other plans. Vinesh got disqualified for merely a 100 gram of overweight ahead of her final event in the 50kg category of wrestling in Paris Olympics 2024. Later, she also announced her retirement from wrestling in an emotional post on social media.

Why was Vinesh Phogat Disqualified From the Final of the 50kg Wrestling Event at the Paris Olympics 2024? Is it justified to disqualify Vinesh Phogat for merely 100 grams more weight than the set category? These questions are surely not going to let Indians take a good nap tonight as India has lost the Gold medal too close. Losing a gold medal would have still been justified but losing a Gold medal without even playing for it and that too when you were all set to play, is the most painful heartbreak. This is exactly what happened! Indians just realized how heavy is merely a 100-gram weight.

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Before we move further, let's give you a quick recap of what happened in the last 48 hours. On Tuesday morning, when Vinesh Phogat was all set to compete in the pre-quarterfinals, her weight was under 50kg i.e. 49.9Kg while her normal weight range was approximately 57kg. She worked a lot on herself to keep it down to 50 kg as it gave her an advantage to compete in a lower bout.

However, it becomes almost impossible to maintain the same weight on the next day because even a small meal can bounce back to at least 53kg. Vinesh Phogat fought 3 bouts yesterday  pre-quarterfinals (vs World No. 1 Japan's Yui Susaki), quarterfinals (vs Ukraine's Livach), and semi-finals (vs Cuba's Guzman)  and won all three of these.

To avoid dehydration, she was given a little bit of water which led to her weight gain. Her weight bounced back to 52.7kg after her semi-final bout. After winning the semi-finals, she did not consume water or even food besides, she didn't even sleep last night while the team ran a sauna all night and put in all efforts to cut down her weight under 50kg. The team managed to make it to 50.1kg in the morning on Day 2 when she was supposed to take on USA's wrestler in the final event.

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However, there was no further time to cut down the weight further, and as a result, she failed the weigh-in and got disqualified. Roughly 100 grams! Usually, 100 grams doesn't feel too heavy but this is feeling like 100s of kilos weight on the shoulders of Indians who were expecting a Gold medal from Vinesh Phogat. Unfortunate! But it is what it is. Rules and Rules! You obey, you sail, you disobey, you drown! And clearly, the Indian ship in the women's freestyle 50kg event sank just in front of the seashore.

The Struggle Continues

Although it was a new kind of setback for the 29-year-old wrestler her struggle has been such since the Rio Olympics 2016. In 2016, Vinesh Phogat was forced to withdraw from her quarterfinal match against Chinese Sun Yanan following a knee injury in the match. Likewise, in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Vinesh Phogat entered as the reigning world No. 1 wherein she met Belarus' wrestler Vanesa Kaladzinskaya in the quarter-final match. Vanesa produced a massive upset over the top-seeded Indian as Vinesh went down fighting 3-9 in her quarter-final bout.

This was not it. It seems destiny wanted to test her more. Later in January 2023, Indian wrestlers started protesting for an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment of female wrestlers by BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh during his tenure as the president of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The protest turned into a violent clash between the police officials and the national wrestlers. The pictures that surfaced, back then, were very disappointing.

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Now, in 2024, she entered the Paris Olympics, as a favorite but her destiny again, set up more struggles for her which led to one of the biggest heartbreaks of the decade.

(The views are those of the author)
Sore points of the situation of children in Romania

Recently, the organization Save the Children Romania published an x-ray of the situation of minors in our country

Sore points of the situation of children in Romania

Christine Lescu, 07.08.2024, 14:00

Recently, the organization Save the Children Romania published an x-ray of the situation of minors in our country, their conclusions including 10 extremely critical points. Among them are problems that have been going on for many years and which, although well known, have not been corrected. For instance, one out of five Romanian children does not finish school on time, annually over 7,000 Romanian children are born to underage mothers, almost 1,200 of these mothers are on their second or even third birth, over half a million children have recently had at least one parent who went to work abroad, and in the countryside, the infant mortality rate continues to be significantly higher compared to the urban areas (6.5 vs. 4.2 per thousand). Besides these problems, there are others, perhaps less discussed in the public space, but equally serious. One of these problems concerns the emotional or mental health of children. More than 41% of 15-year-old girls have sleep-related problems, while 57% of them frequently feel nervousness.

The advocacy director of the Save the Children organization, George Roman, draws attention to this issue: Emotional wellbeing refers to the way in which the authorities understand how to invest in the mental health and protection services for children who need extra support, such as children with special educational needs or children with disabilities. And we dont have any positive scores. Even the World Health Organization highlighted the fact that there are children in Romania with problems related to sleep and self-control. Sometimes they feel isolated, excluded from their groups, in educational institutions or in the community. They need money to have psychological counseling sessions, because the social services, the general directorates for the protection of childrens rights have a very limited number of psychologists, not all of them are trained to provide counseling or psychotherapy, and there are few and overcrowded non-governmental organizations. For example, at the Save the Children Organization Mental Health Center children have to wait for several months, between 3 and 6 months, to benefit our free-of-charge services.

Part of the childrens emotional problems are also caused by the lack of parents who have gone to work abroad. Moreover, the mirage of going abroad also attracts the young people, who seem to have grown up with such ideas in mind.

George Roman: More than half of the children do not want to remain in Romania, and two of the essential reasons mentioned by the children are related to the quality of the education system. About one third of them said they want to leave because of this very issue, because school is not attractive, and they cannot achieve professional and educational development in Romania. But there is also an important number of them, quite significant in our opinion, who want to leave because here they feel the threat of poverty: between 21% and 22% of the children have said that. They dont want to live as poor people in Romania, but go and try their luck in other countries, and many most probably took the example of their own parents.

Another extremely serious aspect is sexual abuse. Out of all criminal complaints involving victims among minors, less than 20% end up with the indictment of the aggressors. The advocacy director of the Save the Children organization, George Roman, is back with details: We seem to be the least interested in fighting this phenomenon of sexual abuse. Apart from several well-trained professionals in the legal system, there is little investment in social policies at the national level. I can give you an example, a program that Save the Children organization has developed in the past two years jointly with the General Directorate for the Protection of Childrens Rights in Bucharests District 6. This is, I believe, one of the few examples in which a child involved in legal situations receives the necessary protection during the hearings, so that they can avoid further trauma or stress caused by these hearings which are quite numerous, sometimes their number reaching 14. A child who has been the victim of sexual abuse would otherwise be forced to recall the trauma he or she experienced before all those who are directly or indirectly involved in legal procedures. And I am speaking here about the repeated hearings with police officers, prosecutors, courts and other institutions.

In the very few situations in which sexual abuse cases against minors are brought to courts, the aggressor is rarely indicted and 3 out of 5 sentences are suspended. Which means the aggressors can return to the community where their victim also lives, says George Roman, advocacy director with Save the Children organization. He hopes that the X-ray of the situation of children in Romania will also register improvements next year. (LS, db)
The Division of Public Health in Alaska has reported a significant increase in whooping cough, or pertussis, cases this year, with 131 confirmed cases to date, a stark contrast to the 26 cases recorded throughout 2023.

Whooping cough is a bacterial infection that can persist for several months and may escalate in severity, particularly among infants, children, and the elderly. The onset of whooping cough is characterized by mild symptoms resembling those of a cold, such as a low-grade fever, cough, and nasal congestion.

Joe McLaughlin, an epidemiologist with the division, noted that Alaska's situation reflects a broader national pattern. "We have recorded over 100 cases of pertussis this year, marking a notable rise in incidence that we have not observed in quite some time," McLaughlin stated. He expressed concern regarding the high hospitalization rates among young infants affected by the disease. McLaughlin pointed out that the majority of whooping cough cases in Alaska occur in children who are not current with their vaccinations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that one-third of infants under one-year-old who contract whooping cough will require hospitalization, with a mortality rate of 1% among hospitalized infants. Additional complications for infants may include vomiting, seizures, and rib fractures. To safeguard infants, McLaughlin emphasized the importance of vaccinating both the children and the adults in their vicinity.

McLaughlin cautioned that if Alaskans experience cold-like symptoms this summer, it is likely to be COVID-19, although whooping cough remains a possibility. He noted that healthcare providers can conduct tests for both illnesses, and individuals diagnosed with whooping cough can be treated with antibiotics. Prompt testing and treatment are crucial, as highlighted by the state department, which reiterates that vaccination is the most effective means of preventing whooping cough.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Taiwan will on Thursday release July figures for imports, exports and trade balance, highlighting a light day for Asia-Pacific economic activity.

Imports are expected to climb 11.2 percent on year, moderating from 33.9 percent in June. Exports are called higher by an annual 6.1 percent, slowing from 23.5 percent in the previous month. The trade surplus is pegged at $6.10 billion, up from $4.68 billion a month earlier.

Japan will provide June figures for current account and July data for overall bank lending and the eco watchers index. The current account is expected to show a surplus of 1.790 trillion yen, down from 2.850 trillion yen in May. Bank lending is seen steady at an annual 3.2 percent. The eco watchers index is tipped to show a score of 47.4, up from 47.0 in June.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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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.
With the updated Royal Enfield Bullet 350 and Meteor 350, we can expect more features as standard, similar to Classic 350 facelift

Royal Enfield dominates the sub-500cc motorcycle segment with products like Classic 350, Hunter 350, Bullet 350 and Meteor 350. An updated version of Classic 350 will be launched on 12th August. After that, Royal Enfield is also expected to introduce the Bullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift.

Updated Royal Enfield Bullet 350, Meteor 350

A variant rejig is likely for the facelift versions of Bullet 350 and Meteor 350. New colour options could be introduced as well. LED tail lamp and pilot lamp can be made standard for all variants of Meteor 350 facelift. Meteor 350 already offers LED headlamps, which will be carried forward.

Bullet 350 facelift will have relatively fewer changes in comparison to Meteor 350 and Classic 350 facelifts. The new Bullet 350 is just around a year old, as it was launched in September 2023. It was the last 350cc Royal Enfield bike to be upgraded with the new engine and chassis.

It remains to be seen if some new tech features are introduced with Bullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift. In the traditional sense, Royal Enfield bikes are preferred more for their dominating road presence, robust performance and powerful exhaust note. However, as consumer preferences are evolving in favour of advanced tech features, there can be a possibility for such upgrades.

Existing Bullet 350 has a fairly basic tech setup, as evident with the digi-analogue instrument console. This new instrument console was part of the updates introduced with the new-gen Bullet 350 last year. It is unlikely that it will witness any major changes. Bullet 350 is also equipped with a USB port.

Possibility of new tech features are more with the Meteor 350 that caters to a diverse set of users. It includes a large section of the younger generation. In its current form, Meteor 350 is equipped with a retro-inspired, digi-analogue instrument panel. Theres a floating LCD screen and built-in Tripper navigation. A USB charging port is available under the clutch lever. With the Royal Enfield App, users can access a lot more features including call alerts on the Tripper.

No Major mechanical updates

Bullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift will continue using the 349cc single cylinder, air-oil cooled engine. It churns out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm, and is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox. Suspension and braking systems will also be carried forward. Bullet 350 has 41 mm telescopic forks at front and twin tube emulsion shock absorbers at rear with 6-step adjustable preload.

Braking setup comprises 300 mm and 270 mm disc brakes at front and rear, respectively. Meteor 350 has the same configuration for the suspension and braking systems. Both bikes are offered with dual-channel ABS. While Bullet 350 has spoke wheels with tube-type tyres, Meteor 350 comes with alloy wheels and tubeless tyres, depending on variants.

Powertrains for both the motorcycles will remain the same. Based on the overall quantum of updates, prices could be increased slightly for Bullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift. These are currently available at a starting price of Rs 1.74 lakh and Rs 2.06 lakh, respectively.
New research shows that Candidatus Nanohaloarchaeum antarcticus, a DPANN archaeon from an Antarctic hypersaline lake called Deep Lake, behaves like a parasitic predator that rapidly kills its host, Halorubrum lacusprofundi.

Archaea is one of three lineages of life, alongside Bacteria and Eukarya (organisms whose cells have a membrane-bound nucleus, including plants and animals), said Dr. Yan Liao, a microbiologist at the University of Technology Sydney.

They are widespread and play a crucial role in supporting Earths ecosystems.

They are less studied and understood than the other lineages. However, archaea provide clues about the evolution of life on Earth, as well as how life might exist on other planets.

Their unique biochemistry also holds promising applications in biotechnology and bioremediation.

They have been found thriving in very acidic boiling hot springs, deep-sea hydrothermal vents at temperatures well over 100 degrees Celsius, in hypersaline waters like the Dead Sea, as well as in Antarctica.

Candidatus Nanohaloarchaeum antarcticus was collected from the cold and hypersaline Deep Lake in Antarctica by University of New South Wales Professor Ricardo Cavicchioli.

This species is a member of a group called DPANN archaea, which are much smaller than other archaea, with very small genomes and limited metabolic capabilities.

The study reveals it depends on host microbes, particularly other archaea, to survive.

This is the first time such aggressive behavior has been observed in archaea, said Dr. Joshua Hamm, a microbiologist at the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research.

In many ways, the activity is similar to some viruses. It leads us to re-evaluate their ecological role in the Antarctic environment.

Very few DPANN archaea have been cultivated in the lab, and the authors developed new techniques, including unique sample staining, live fluorescence microscopy, and electron microscopy, to visualise the internal parts of the host cells and track interactions between DPANN archaea and their hosts.

They stained the host, an archaeon called Halorubrum lacusprofundi, and Candidatus Nanohaloarchaeum antarcticus, with non-cytotoxic dyes that glow with different colors when exposed to laser light.

This allowed us to observe the organisms together over extended periods and identify the cells by color, Dr. Liao said.

We saw DPANN parasites attach, and then appear to move into the host cell, leading to the host cells lysis or bursting open.

Predators are important players in ecosystems because when they kill their hosts, they not only feed themselves but also make the remains of the host cells available for other organisms to feed on, said Dr. Iain Duggin, a microbiologist at the University of Technology Sydney.

This allows other microbes to grow and prevents the host organism from hoarding nutrients.

The DPANN archaea we investigated appear to play a much more significant role in ecosystems than realised.

A parasitic or infection-like lifestyle of these archaea may be common.

The results appear in the journal Nature Communications.

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J.N. Hamm et al. 2024. The parasitic lifestyle of an archaeal symbiont. Nat Commun 15, 6449; doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-49962-y
By Fatime Letifova

Until the 19th century, there was no state named Armenia or any territory belonging to Armenians in the South Caucasus. All historical sources indicate that present-day Armenia was once part of the Christianization policies implemented by Tsarist Russia in the region. As a result of these policies, there was prolonged ethnic cleansing and genocides committed against Azerbaijanis.

Having adhered to some traditions left by the tsarist Russia, the policy of the former Soviet regime led to the creation of a fabricated Armenian state in the South Caucasus. The city of Yerevan, which is now presented as the capital of Armenia, was once part of Azerbaijani territory.

Using the protection of other states, the Armenian government later set its sights on other Azerbaijani territories. Thus, starting from the 1980s, the Armenian army carried out plans to occupy Azerbaijan's Garabagh. Those provocations and occupation, which continued until 2020, ended with the counteroffensive operations of the Azerbaijani Army. In September 2023, local anti-terror measures neutralized separatist elements trying to create a second so-called "state" in the region that is reflected in the current "Armenian constitution'.

Peace talks between the two countries began for the first time in 30 years. The meeting of foreign ministers in Almaty in May was a significant contribution to the potential peace agreement in the South Caucasus. However, the presence of territorial claims against Azerbaijani land in the Armenian constitution remains a potential threat to the peace process exacerbating already-tense relations between the two countries.

It is worth noting that although there have been several constitutional amendments in Armenia, the articles referencing the unification of Garabagh with Armenia in the Declaration of Independence have not been changed. Last month, on Armenia's Constitution Day, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the country needs a new constitution.

However, after this proposal, protests against Pashinyan's peace-oriented steps increased. Even Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has voiced opinions contrary to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's statements. Since Pashinyan came to power, he has made various remarks about amending the Armenian constitution. On January 19, the Prime Minister had already declared that the country needs a new constitution.

In a comment for Azernews on the issue, Patrick Walsh, an Irish historian and political analyst, said that the Armenian Constitution is very provocative.

"The Armenian Constitution is both provocative and outdated, and an offence to international law and Azerbaijans sovereignty, so it makes it unlikely that a peace settlement can be concluded while Armenia asserts a Constitutional claim on Azerbaijani territory. The articles refer to miatsum and quite obviously this is dead and buried since 2020. In fact, the Yerevan government did not attempt to put the Constitutional claim into action when there was a chance," he added.

The expert commented on Pashinyan's attempts for a new constitution.

"Pashinyan has indicated on a number of occasions he desires a new Constitution for Armenia, but his problem is in bringing this about. He has opposition which will attempt to use the issue against him to bring him down. To copperfasten and make for an enduring treaty settlement with Azerbaijan the Armenian public does need to be brought along with an all-encompassing deal, with a validating referendum.

I would guess that in the end some form of choreography will be worked out as in the 1998 Northern Ireland peace agreement. This would involve a parallel process in which the Armenians have a take it or leave it offer in return for signing up to a comprehensive agreement. The agreement would depend on a referendum deleting the articles and finally ratification of the deal by both Armenia and Azerbaijan in parallel," the historian stressed.

In his comment on the same issue, British expert Neil Watson explained the miastsum concept that Armenia still holds in its ambiguous constitution.

Watson says the concept of miatsum - Armenian claims on the Azerbaijani region of Garabagh written in the preamble to its constitution - is now the major hurdle in achieving a peace treaty, particularly at a time when the negotiations are purely bilateral. In my view, we will see no change to the constitution before a referendum in 2026, but we could see a framework agreement from Armenia that would indicate a genuine plan for a change and this could form the basis for further understanding leading to the striking of a peace treaty before the end of the year," the expert noted.

Furthermore, pro-Armenian forces in the West and Russia have begun to pressure the Pashinyan government and delay peace through various means. It is naturally difficult to say whether Pashinyan has maintained a strong resolve against these protests. For instance, the engagement of a US representative in the army and the European Union's gift of a modest sum of 10 million euros to the Armenian army seem to have diverted Pashinyan from pursuing peace and caused him to avoid meetings in the West-suggested peace platforms.

Currently, there are three main issues obstructing peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia:

1. The Armenian government must provide an official report to Baku regarding the fate of Azerbaijani prisoners and missing persons from the first Garabagh War.

2. The transfer of accurate minefield maps planted in Garabagh to Azerbaijan.

3. The repeal of territorial claims against Azerbaijani land in the Armenian Constitution.

Armenia continues to reject the peace conditions proposed by Azerbaijan, engage in provocations at the border, and increase tensions in the South Caucasus. The resolution of these key issues obstructing peace remains delayed.
Maersk reported a significant improvement in its second-quarter financial performance on Wednesday, driven by strong volume growth across all of its business segments.

The Danish shipping giant said its EBIT margin jumped to 7.5% from 1.4% in the first quarter, reflecting a return to profitability across its core operations.

It said the positive results were supported by robust performance in the ocean, logistics and services, and terminals segments.

The ocean segment saw strong volume growth, particularly in Asia exports, driven by increased freight rates amidst heightened supply chain pressures.

While the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea and the rerouting of ships south of the Cape of Good Hope continued to elevate operating costs, the segments profitability improved significantly compared to previous quarters, though it remained below the levels seen in the same period last year.

Logistics and services also experienced solid growth, with a 7% year-on-year increase in volumes.

That growth, coupled with improved asset utilisation and effective cost management, led to enhanced profitability both sequentially and compared to the prior year.

The segment made notable progress in addressing customer implementation challenges in the North American ground freight business, further bolstering its financial performance.

Maersk said the terminals segment delivered one of its highest EBITDA levels ever, driven by significant revenue growth per move in North America, which was supported by higher tariffs and storage fees.

Although costs per move increased slightly, effective cost management ensured that profitability remained strong.

In light of the positive developments and the continued impact of supply chain disruptions caused by the situation in the Red Sea, Maersk upgraded its financial guidance for 2024.

The company said it now expected underlying EBITDA to be between $9bn and $11bn, up from the previous forecast of $7bn to $9bn.

Underlying EBIT was projected to be in the range of $3bn to $5bn, a substantial increase from the earlier estimate of $1bn to $3bn.

Additionally, free cash flow was expected to exceed $2bn, and capital expenditures for 2024 to 2025 were now forecast to be between $10bn and $11bn, reflecting ongoing fleet renewal efforts.

Our results this quarter confirm that performance in all our businesses is trending in the right direction, said chief executive officer Vincent Clerc.

Market demand has been strong, and as we have all seen, the situation in the Red Sea remains entrenched, which leads to continued pressure on global supply chains.

These conditions are now expected to continue for the remainder of the year.

Clerc said the company had invested in additional equipment in all of its businesses to adapt to the situation and continue supporting customers through the disruptions.

As we look ahead, our focus remains on leveraging organic growth while exploring opportunities for value-accretive acquisitions particularly in Logistics.

We will maintain tight cost control and high asset utilisation, and further execute on our fleet renewal programme.

At 1037 CEST (0937 BST), shares in Maersk were down 2.39% in Copenhagen at DKK 10,425.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
UK house prices rose in July after three flat months, according to figures released on Wednesday by Halifax.

Prices were up 0.8% on the month, coming in comfortably ahead of expectations for 0.3% growth.

On the year, house prices rose 2.3% in July following a 1.9% increase in June. This marked the highest annual growth rate since January 2024.

The average house price stood at 291,268 compared to 289,042 in June.

Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages at Halifax, said: "Last weeks Bank of Englands Base Rate cut, which follows recent reductions in mortgage rates, is encouraging for those looking to remortgage, purchase a first home or move along the housing ladder. However, affordability constraints and the lack of available properties continue to pose challenges for prospective homeowners.

"Against the backdrop of lower mortgage rates and potential further Base Rate reductions, we anticipate house prices to continue a modest upward trend throughout the remainder of this year."

Ashley Webb, UK economist at Capital Economics, said: "After three months of stagnation, the bigger-than-expected rise in the Halifax house price index in July provides further evidence that house prices are bouncing back from the slight rise in mortgage rates in the first half of this year.

"Whats more, the recent fall in the 2-year interest swap rate from 4.25% at the end of July to 4.08% now due to investors US recession fears poses a further upside risk to our forecast for house prices to grow by just 1.0% in 2024."
Technology investing giant SoftBank Group reported a significant reduction in losses for its fiscal first quarter on Wednesday, alongside a bold plan to repurchase up to $3.4bn worth of its shares.

The Japanese company recorded a net loss of JPY 174.3bn (0.93bn) for the quarter through June - a sharp improvement from the JPY 477.6bn loss in the same period last year.

Its financial rebound was driven by gains in key investments, including Alibaba and T-Mobile, as well as a narrower loss in its Vision Fund operations.

The company also swung to a net profit of JPY 10.5bn, thanks to a JPY 560bn gain from various investment activities, despite ongoing market volatility.

However, the Vision Fund, a crucial arm of SoftBank's tech investments, posted a JPT 204.3bn loss, offset by a JPY 1.9bn gain from its portfolio, particularly in companies like ByteDance, the owner of TikTok.

The company's recent financial performance also reflected a recovery in some of its troubled investments.

WeWork, the office-space-sharing company that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2023, emerged from bankruptcy in June, contributing to an improved outlook.

However, the impact of a weakening yen, which added JPY 443.9bn in losses for the quarter, was posing challenges.

SoftBanks decision to initiate a substantial share buyback programme, valued at JPY 500bn, came on the back of growing pressure from shareholders, particularly US activist investor Elliott Management.

Elliott had pushed for a $15bn buyback to address the disparity between SoftBank's market capitalisation and the value of its underlying assets.

The buyback plan would represent up to 6.8% of SoftBank's outstanding shares.

At the close on Wednesday, shares in SoftBank Group were up 5.19% in Tokyo, at JPY 7,544.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
Vodafone has announced a share buyback programme of up 500m (430m) to start on Wednesday and end no later than 29 November.

The telecoms firm said it has given a non-discretionary instruction to Goldman Sachs for the buyback, the sole purpose of which is to reduce share capital.

Vodafone announced in March that it was planning to return 2bn to shareholders in the next 12 months after the sale of its Spanish business to Zegona Communications.

At 1015 BST, the shares were up 2.1% at 71.90p.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. A list of places allocated for meetings with voters as part of the pre-election campaign for the snap parliamentary election in Azerbaijan has been published, Trend reports.

The places were allocated in accordance with the law On freedom of assembly.

The list of open and indoor premises allocated for the campaign has been released on the website of the Central Election Commission (CEC).

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.

The pre-election campaign will begin on August 9 and last until 08:00 (GMT +4) on August 31.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Research centric by Rajesh Kumar Singh, Professor at MDI Gurgaon

Globally, the healthcare industry is facing enormous challenges due to a growing population and scarce resources. In the health care industry, timely delivery of all goods and services is crucial since patient lives are at stake. Therefore, compared to other supply chains, the healthcare supply chain (HSC) is far more complex since it involves people and is heavily influenced by the customization of precise medicine supplies based on the needs of specific patients. During COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare system across the world faced many disruptions. During this period, the Indian healthcare industry also saw numerous disruptions in delivering reliable and timely services to patients.

The third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of the United Nations i.e. "Affordable healthcare access for all," appears to be extremely difficult given the growing population and inadequate infrastructure. The issues facing the healthcare sector in emerging countries like India include a shortage of competent healthcare personnel, an abrupt increase in the demand for pharmaceuticals, and a lack of resources and expertise to manage disruptions. It has been noted that data-driven innovations built on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), contribute to the resilience and flexibility of healthcare processes.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare brings up a number of moral and societal concerns, such as accountability for the decisions and mistakes made by AI systems. Healthcare data security and privacy present significant challenges as well. The use of AI technology is threatened by the rise of cyberthreats. There are other concerns also such as poor data quality, moral dilemmas, inadequate regulations, and a lack of medical compre- hension of AI-based systems.

In developing nations like India, where access to healthcare is skewed toward the urban population and the doctor-patient ratio is low, artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to be a game-changer. For example, in 2023, Tata Memorial Hospital in India, in partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B), initiated the Bioimaging bank. Through a simple click, medical professionals will have the capability to evaluate the firmness, consistency, and suppleness of tumors, as well as obtain insights into the probability of a patient's survival and their receptiveness to chemotherapy. Mumbai's Tata Memorial Hospital, the largest cancer hospital in India, has embarked on a groundbreaking venture by leveraging deep learning to educate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the early detection of cancer.

According to physicians, this diagnostic tool will also aid in preventing unnecessary chemotherapy for those predicted to be non-responders. AI is primarily seen to be most appropriate for repetitive tasks like data entry, CT scans, X-rays, etc. Additionally, the digital nurse is intended for patient condition monitoring and follow-up, and its 24/7 accessibility and prompt medication responses are considered its greatest benefits. For example, EliseAI a company based in New York focuses on providing conversational AI solutions. Within the healthcare industry. EliseAI provides technology powered by AI, which is capable of automating tasks such as appointment scheduling and sending payment reminders. The AI capabilities of EliseAI enable patient engagement through SMS, voice, email, and web chat formats.

AI technology is thought to improve clinical decision-making, automate tedious procedures, reduce errors, and maximize the use of healthcare resources. AI applications can aid in bringing healthcare to India's distant locations, particularly in the fields of diagnostics and preventive care. For example, Columbia Asia Hospitals, located in Bengaluru, prides itself on being a top hospital, with expertise in critical care medicine and bariatric surgery. Using AI technology, the hospital streamlines processes, enabling physicians to accurately document all discussions between doctors and patients, giving insight into patterns. Additionally, the predictive analysis feature assists in identifying illnesses early and supporting the treatment of severe conditions. By offering effective diagnosis and treatment plans and ensuring improved administration of an already resource-scarce sector, this could address the physician shortage. In order to increase public trust and acceptance of AI systems, awareness campaigns and training are needed.

Health finance can use AI tools to analyze healthcare plans in a subsidized way in order to maximize benefits and guarantee transparency. The AI models can comprehend intricate biological interconnections and patterns of disease. For example, DeepMind, a company, has utilized artificial intelligence to create a novel medication for Alzheimer's disease, which is currently undergoing clinical trials. A Massachusetts-based company called Atomwise utilizes artificial intelligence to address severe illnesses such as Ebola and multiple sclerosis. Atomwise's neural network, AtomNet, aids in forecasting bioactivity and recognizing patient attributes for clinical trials. The company's AI technology examines 10 to 20 million genetic compounds daily and can allegedly produce results 100 times more rapidly than conventional pharmaceutical firms. During the COVID19 pandemic, Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru deployed robots to deliver medications and meals to patients, reducing the potential exposure of doctors, nurses, and housekeeping staff. This represents a commendable application of technology in the fight against the coronavirus. Since intelligence and accuracy are so important to the healthcare system, using AI technology helps to solve a number of issues. Additionally, it has been discovered that AI is extensively utilized in radiology and medical data administration. In spite of so many benefits and applications, for the successful application of AI systems for resilient healthcare services, careful regulation and policies are required.
The Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani Hyderabad has inaugurated a new Centre for Research Excellence in National Security (CRENS). This new centre is set to enhance Indias security capabilities through the development of indigenous technologies, focusing on joint research, skill development, and entrepreneurship.

CRENS aims to support the countrys goal of becoming self-reliant in the national security sector by collaborating with organizations such as DRDO, ISRO, DAE, tri-services, paramilitary forces, police, defense PSUs, and various industries. The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to Indias strategic and economic growth, ensuring a more secure and prosperous nation.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Dr. G Satheesh Reddy, former Secretary of DD R&D, former Chairman of DRDO, and former Scientific Adviser to the Defence Minister, who served as the chief guest. Dr. Reddy emphasized the critical need for developing new technologies to address asymmetric warfare challenges, which are increasingly prevalent in todays global security landscape. He also noted the strategic advantage of CRENSs location at the Hyderabad campus, which facilitates collaboration with numerous important institutions in the region.

professionals in the national security domain. The second vertical is dedicated to research aimed at providing practical solutions for service personnel. The third vertical will foster innovation by encouraging startups in defense, space, and other strategic sectors vital to the nations needs. The strategic focus of CRENS is divided into three key verticals. The first vertical will offer hybrid courses, both online and offline, designed to enhance the skill sets ofdomain. The second vertical is dedicated to research aimed at providing practical solutions for service personnel. The third vertical will foster innovation by encouraging startups in defense, space, and other strategic sectors vital to the nations needs.

Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Vice Chancellor of BITS Pilani, expressed pride in the new centre, stating, National security research and innovation require significant emphasis. We are proud to have a dedicated centre here at BITS Pilani Hyderabad. By uniting key stakeholders in the national security domain, CRENS aims to advance research, support innovation, and develop the skills of professionals, making our country self-reliant in security science and technology.

The launch of CRENS marks a significant step towards bolstering India's national security capabilities through advanced research and innovation.
In its ongoing efforts to enhance Oral Health Education, Colgate-Palmolive (India) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Uttar Pradesh to bring its flagship program, Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures (BSBF) to the children across the state. Through this collaboration, Colgate aims to intensify the outreach of its BSBF in-school program in Uttar Pradesh by committing to reach 50 lakh students in 2 years.

Today, this vital initiative was inaugurated, with the first phase of impacting 50 lakh children by 2026, in the esteemed presence of Shri Sandeep Singh, Honourable Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Basic Education, GoUP, Dr. M.K. Shanmuga Sundaram, Principal Secretary, Department of Basic Education, GoUP and Smt Prabha Narasimhan, MD & CEO of Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited.

Colgate's Bright Smiles, Bright Futures, that translates into 'Ujwal Muskaan, Ujwal Bhavishya' in Hindi is a carefully designed initiative focused on right Oral Care habits, raising awareness about tobacco prevention, and promoting good nutrition for Oral Health among school children aged 6 to 15 years.

The program focuses on five critical missions: the right way of brushing, importance of brushing twice daily, replacing one's toothbrush every three months, abstaining from the use of tobacco, and embracing nutritious food choices. Supplementary materials including dental kits, brushing calendars, teacher training guides, and certificates will arm children and educationists with essential lifelong knowledge.

Addressing the audience at the launch ceremony Shri Sandeep Singh, Honourable Minister of State (Independent Charge), Basic Education, Government of UP said, "I am delighted to be joined by Ms. Prabha Narasimhan, the Colgate team, teachers and students today for this event focused on the important cause of Oral Healthcare. We believe that this is fundamental to overall well-being, and by partnering with Colgate, we aim to bring Oral Care Education to students and inculcate the importance of Oral Hygiene via the curriculum and the libraries in all our schools across the state".

Addressing the partnership, Smt Prabha Narasimhan, MD & CEO of Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited, added, "Our vision to enhance Oral Care awareness and education in India is unwavering, supported by our advancements in scientific research. We are deeply honoured to partner with the Government of Uttar Pradesh and are committed to engaging with all 1.93 crore children in the state. With this, we will further propel our mission to create meaningful, positive change for children in the region. Our Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures will continue to champion healthy smiles".

Since its inception in 1976, the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program has positively impacted over 176 million children across India with the knowledge of good Oral Health Habits.

The inauguration ceremony hosted in Aligarh officially marked the commencement of this program, and it also witnessed the esteemed presence of Ms. Shilpashree Muniswamappa, Director - ESG & Communications at Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited, Shri. Ruchir Bhatnagar, Senior Director- Customer Development at Colgate-Palmolive (India) Limited, Shri Bhomik Shah, Trustee, BharatCares, Shri. Vikas G IAS, District Magistrate, Aligarh, GoUP, Shri. Sanjiv Suman IPS, Senior Superintendent of Police, Aligarh, GoUP, Shri. Anil Parashar, MLA, Shri. Ravendra Pal Singh, MLA, Shri. Raj Kumar Sahyogi, MLA, Shri. Manvendra Pratap Singh, MLC, Shri. Krishnapal Singh, BJP President, Aligarh, Smt. Vijay Singh, Zila Panchayat Adhyaksh, Shri. Prashant Singhal, Mayor, Aligarh and Shri. Rakesh Singh, Basic Shiksha Adhikari, Aligarh, GoUP.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has called for a reevaluation of trade priorities among BIMSTEC member nations to expedite the long-delayed Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Speaking at the inaugural BIMSTEC Business Summit, Goyal emphasized the need to address the causes of the delay and push for a resolution that benefits all seven member countries.

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Business Summit, which opened on August 6, marks a significant event hosted by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII). The summit aims to foster deeper economic cooperation among the member nations, which include Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan, and Nepal.

During his address, Goyal highlighted the small volume of trade among BIMSTEC countries and stressed the necessity of enhancing intra-regional trade and investment. He urged the Trade Negotiating Committee and the business community to consider initiating a preferential trade agreement to stimulate regional commerce and improve competitiveness.

"The time has come to reassess why the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement has faced delays and to develop a set of practical recommendations that all member nations can support," Goyal said. He called for introspection among the members to identify and address the obstacles hindering progress.

The minister underscored the importance of deeper integration among the member states, urging them to provide honest feedback to improve trade facilitation and cross-border movement of goods. He also emphasized the need for reducing trade deficits, enhancing trade facilitation measures, and improving e-commerce and digital public infrastructure through technology.

Goyal stressed the need for modernizing border controls, speeding up import-export online application processes, and improving the Ease of Doing Business. "Strengthening supply chains, removing tariff and non-tariff barriers, and adopting international norms for trade facilitation are essential to unlocking the full potential of trade and investment among BIMSTEC countries", he said.

The minister expressed hope for greater integration of startups and entrepreneurs from the seven member countries to boost investment, trade, and tourism. He also called for enhanced technology cooperation and agricultural collaboration to address food security, healthcare, and human resource development.

In addition, Goyal highlighted the potential of the blue economy, noting the demand for ocean products and the need to improve livelihoods and job creation while preserving marine and coastal ecosystems. He suggested that regional value chains could add value to agricultural and mineral products, contributing to the development of the region.

On a related note, Goyal expressed concern over the current situation in Bangladesh and wished for a smooth transition of governance for the nation. Quoting poet Rabindranath Tagore, he urged BIMSTEC countries to work together with India's business community to find new solutions for regional prosperity. "If I can't make it through one door, I will go through another or I will make a door", he said, reflecting his optimism for collaborative progress.
IPG Mediabrands, the media holding arm of the US-based advertising giant Interpublic Group, has inaugurated its largest global capability centre (GCC) in Pune. The new facility is set to accommodate 3,000 employees within the next two years, according to top company executives.

Currently, the Pune centre houses 1,000 employees and will act as a pivotal hub for media activation, product development, and engineering services for over 500 global clients spanning various industries. The centre will provide a range of services including media planning and buying, billing and reconciliation, finance, and human resources.

IPG plans to recruit professionals from diverse fields, including data scientists and analysts, to support its operations in Pune.

Jarrod Martin, CEO of Interpublics performance marketing group Kinesso and data business Acxiom, highlighted the strategic importance of the investment in India. "It was strategically important for us to double down on our investment in India. India offers a great talent pool that will enable us to standardize and scale our global offerings effectively", Martin stated.

IPG Mediabrands currently operates GCCs in several countries, including Colombia, Mexico, Poland, the Philippines, and Malaysia. The launch of the Pune centre marks a significant expansion in IPGs global operations.

Shashi Sinha, CEO of IPG Mediabrands India, described the Pune GCC as a testament to IPGs strategic commitment to India and its focus on leveraging local talent for media innovation. "Over the past year, we have doubled our size, and we expect India to become the second-largest IPG Mediabrands market by employee headcount in the next two years", Sinha said.

The establishment of the Pune GCC is part of IPG Mediabrands broader strategy to standardize systems and processes globally, aiming to create a unified collaboration framework across various markets. "We now have a blueprint to accelerate operations in India, allowing us to implement a templated approach that can be adapted across different regions without worrying about market-specific nuances", Martin added.

In addition to expanding its GCC network, Interpublic Group is actively exploring acquisition opportunities in India to enhance its global data capabilities. Martin noted that the company is particularly interested in assets related to retail media. "We are looking at potential acquisitions that can provide us with globally scaled data in the retail sector", he said.
Next to agriculture, handloom sector is the greatest revenue earner for the country. Having a rich tradition of excellent crafts-manship since time immemorial, it reflects India's vibrant culture. It has been a home-based industry and has generated millions of jobs, both directly and indirectly. It has also flourished, basically because there is low capital investment, negligible consumption of power, and eco-friendly products that have been quite innovative. In the situation at hand, the challenges to the sector emanate from low productivity in the face of globalization with limited working capital and rapidly changing technology.

In order to remain relevant, the industry needs to build on intrinsic strengths while seeking a balance between its rich heritage and interventions of modern technology. It becomes a significant fact when taken against the backdrop of the fact that handloom technology has less or low environmental impact and low energy consumption, besides having the possibility of new entrants, all of which make a compelling case for preservation of the originality of the weavers' craftsmanship, along with the incorporation of new technologies for continued success.

National Handloom Day 2024

August 7th marks National Handloom Day, celebrated by India to pay homage to the weavers of the country for their invaluable contribution to both the economy and the cultural heritage of the country. This day, which falls at the very onset of festivities, ensures that what is essentially a historical vocation the handloom industry continues with greater empowerment of the women weavers connected with this craft. The 9th National Handloom Day with the participation of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, Delhi, was an absolute opportunity to celebrate and recognize the timeless legacy of handloom weaving in India. As cooperatives and activists come together across states, the message is clear that Handlooms empower and exemplify India, shining a light on and lifting up marginalized weaving communities while reviving heritage crafts.

National Handloom Day is celebrated to definite the role of the handloom industry in India's economy and society. It inspires the use of handloom products, which have remarkably high quality compared to machine-made products, made using age-old methods. Stressing this industry, the strong financial component is brought out on National Handloom Day providing a means of living for millions and generating huge revenue. It has also served to underline the great role of weavers and artisans in making the industry sustainable. The day has been celebrated to increase much-needed awareness about the preservation of age-old heritage of handloom weaving, which has been moved from generation to generation. This had promoted the concept of sustainable fashion since handloom textiles do not have much environmental impact. Thus, National Handloom Day draws attention toward the importance of this industry and also puts forth the aesthetics and fineness of handicrafts.

Gaurav Bhatnagar, Director, Sales, Amazon India, said, National Handloom Day is a cherished opportunity to honor the incredible talent and resilience of the local artisans and handloom weavers of India, who have nurtured the countrys textile traditions and kept it alive for many generations. At Amazon, we are committed to empowering the artisan and weaver communities with e-commerce, to help them build and scale their business, while also promoting sustainable usage of their products.

Some People May Not Be Familiar with the Concept of Handloom Weaving

A 'handloom' is a traditional loom used to weave cloth without relying on electricity. Hand weaving occurs in homes among weavers and consists of the interlacing of two sets of threads: the warp, running lengthwise, and the weft, running widthwise.

The history of handloom weaving in India is as old as civilization itself and relates back to times before the existence of any mills for textiles. It was practiced by the weaver community called Julahas, who made fabrics dyed from plants, flowers, and fruits. Machine-made textiles from England replaced handloom fabrics in clothes production during the Industrial Revolution. After the Independence period, handlooms made a sort of comeback when Mahatma Gandhi pitched for these against imported machine-made fabrics with the propaganda of their cheap cost.

Various Types of Handloom and Powerloom

Art Silk: Artificial Synthetic fibre that imitates pure silk in its appearance and texture and gives the added advantages of durability at a cheap rate.

Artificial Synthetic fibre that imitates pure silk in its appearance and texture and gives the added advantages of durability at a cheap rate. Hybrid: Blended yarns produce unique textures and styles. Such fabrics, at the same time, come quite cheap.

Blended yarns produce unique textures and styles. Such fabrics, at the same time, come quite cheap. Brocade: This is a fabric with raised patterns. The raised patterns are created on the ground of the fabric by means of extra weft threads. Metallic or zari threads are often introduced into brocades to give them a decorative effect

This is a fabric with raised patterns. The raised patterns are created on the ground of the fabric by means of extra weft threads. Metallic or zari threads are often introduced into brocades to give them a decorative effect Cutwork: Extra weft thread is used to form patterns and is then cut away to achieve an open design without any zari.

Extra weft thread is used to form patterns and is then cut away to achieve an open design without any zari. Ikat: Patterns are dyed or printed on threads before weaving, and regional styles develop techniques like Pochampally and Patola.

Patterns are dyed or printed on threads before weaving, and regional styles develop techniques like Pochampally and Patola. Kadhua: A broken technique of brocade where the motifs are individually woven without floats, hence the design is sharp and bright in color.

A broken technique of brocade where the motifs are individually woven without floats, hence the design is sharp and bright in color. Kadiyal (Korvai): Technique where these borders are well differentiated from the main body of the fabric through the use of multiple weavers and shuttles.

Technique where these borders are well differentiated from the main body of the fabric through the use of multiple weavers and shuttles. Katan Silk: These are Tussah silks made with Mulberry silk yarns of repute for their performance with a lustrous finish and are primarily used for sarees.

are Tussah silks made with Mulberry silk yarns of repute for their performance with a lustrous finish and are primarily used for sarees. Kora Silk: Organza Silk. Light, semi-diaphanous fabric using raw silk to give that sheer, delicate look.

Organza Silk. Light, semi-diaphanous fabric using raw silk to give that sheer, delicate look. Patola & Pochampally: Pre-Weave dyeing techniques for threads, giving unique patterns with regional variations.

Pre-Weave dyeing techniques for threads, giving unique patterns with regional variations. Raw Silk: Coarse textured silk, non-processed with a matt or subdued glow.

Coarse textured silk, non-processed with a matt or subdued glow. Summer Silk: Lightweight fabric combining Katan silk with twisted silk yarn, ideal for summer.

Lightweight fabric combining Katan silk with twisted silk yarn, ideal for summer. Tussar Saree: Made from coarser Tussar silk in its natural copper hue that can be dyed.

Made from coarser Tussar silk in its natural copper hue that can be dyed. Tissue Fabric: The fabric has metallic zari threads, used in an amount that imparts a subtle to dramatic sheen effect.

Swati Maskeri, Faculty at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, says, "It is important to acknowledge the heritage of handwoven textiles in India as an enduring cultural and economic activity, especially on National Handloom Day. With over 15% of cloth production consumed domestically and more than 95% of the world's hand-woven textiles sourced from India, handloom weaving continues to be the second largest economic activity after agriculture, employing 35.23 lakh weavers and allied workers. As one of the oldest cultural technologies of our country, handlooms tell stories of materials and makers that remain relevant amidst current ecological and cultural crises".

Final Note

National Handloom Day 2024 becomes an eventful day for this invaluable tradition of handloom weaving to bind together India's rich past with the aspirations for the future. As the day approaches, there is renewed interest in going through stories and histories behind the heirloom weaves, along with acknowledging policy and online platforms helping the marginalized weavers. It calls upon citizens and consumers to play their due role for the preservation of this green craft through advocacy and community engagement. Such efforts raise consumer awareness, strengthen the handloom sector, and fill it with the spirit of inclusive development so that this much-cherished tradition remains vibrant and alive.
Tata Power and Druk Green Power Corporation Ltd (DGPC) have unveiled plans for a major hydropower initiative in Bhutan. The Khorlochhu Hydropower Project, estimated at Rs 6,900 crore, will have a capacity of 600 megawatts and will be constructed on the Kholongchhu river in eastern Bhutan.

The project aims to address Bhutans growing electricity needs while supporting Indias transition to renewable energy sources. Tata Power will hold a 40% equity stake in the venture through Khorlochhu Hydro Power Ltd, a Public Private Partnership (PPP) entity.

sustainable energy future and reinforcing Tata Powers commitment to environmental sustainability. With a projected construction timeline of five years, the project has received all necessary statutory approvals to commence work. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD of Tata Power, highlighted the initiatives role in advancing aand reinforcing Tata Powers commitment to environmental sustainability.

Dasho Chhewang Rinzin, MD of DGPC, emphasized the significance of the partnership for Bhutan's energy security and economic progress. The project aligns with Bhutans goal of becoming a High-Income Gross National Happiness (GNH) Economy by 2034.

The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to advancing renewable energy and enhancing regional energy security.
Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed an Order on the establishment of the Forensic Examination Council, acting on a consultative basis.

The Order aims to improve the public management and regulation in forensics, ensure the compliance of activity of the forensic expertise with the international standards, develop common standards and promote their implementation, as well as enhance human resource capacity in the relevant field.

Under the presidential Order, the Minister of Justice of the Republic of Azerbaijan was appointed as the Chair, while the Deputy Ministers of Internal Affairs, Defense, Health, Deputy Chairs of State Security Service, Supreme Court, Prosecutor General and Presidium of Bar Association were appointed as members of the council.
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced a significant achievement in the ongoing petroleum refinery project in Barmer, Rajasthan, highlighting the installation of a major infrastructure component.

In a post on social media platform 'X', the minister shared that a massive dome roof of a Propylene Double Wall Tank had been successfully airlifted and placed at the Barmer site. The Propylene Double Wall Tank, designed to store hazardous and special chemicals up to 200F, consists of an inner tank for storing the chemicals and an outer tank providing a protective barrier. The dome roof, with a total weight of 435 metric tons including the suspended deck and balancing weights, represents a substantial engineering feat.

"This is how India's energy sector is shaping up for the future under the dynamic leadership of PM @narendramodi Ji", Minister Puri stated, emphasizing the project's importance to India's energy landscape.

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and the Government of Rajasthan (GOR), with stakes of 74% and 26% respectively. Initially conceived in 2008 and approved in 2013, the project underwent reconfiguration and saw the commencement of work in 2018 under the Prime Minister's leadership. The Greenfield Refinery cum Petrochemical Complex at Barmer, Rajasthan, is being developed by HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited (HRRL), a joint venture betweenand the Government of Rajasthan (GOR), with stakes of 74% and 26% respectively. Initially conceived in 2008 and approved in 2013, the project underwent reconfiguration and saw the commencement of work in 2018 under the Prime Minister's leadership.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has outlined that the HRRL refinery complex will process 9 million metric tons per annum (MMTPA) of crude and produce over 2.4 million tons of petrochemicals annually, significantly reducing India's petrochemical import bills. The project is expected to serve as an anchor industry for an industrial hub in western Rajasthan and contribute to India's vision of achieving 450 MMTPA refining capacity by 2030.

Furthermore, the project aims to bring self-reliance to India by substituting imports of petrochemicals, which currently amount to Rs 95,000 crore. Post-commissioning, the complex is projected to reduce the import bill by Rs 26,000 crore.

The project has also provided substantial employment opportunities, engaging around 35,000 workers directly within the complex and approximately 100,000 workers indirectly. The successful installation of the Propylene Double Wall Tank dome roof marks a pivotal step in the progress of this landmark project.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Police have arrested a person in a deadly shooting last month outside a Mariners Harbor apartment building, in an incident the defense is claiming was justified.

Erroll DeGroat, 34, who lives at the apartment building on Roxbury Street where the shooting erupted, turned himself in to police Tuesday at the 120th Precinct Stationhouse. He was joined by high-profile defense attorney Mario Gallucci.

The defendant, who is bound to a wheelchair, was himself shot a decade ago and remains paralyzed from the waist down, Advance/SILive.com records show.
Several popular amusement parks in the western part of Pennsylvania may go up for sale.

This sale is said to be part of the parks Spain-based parent corporations move to seek the value of all its holdings in the United States.

According to the Tribune-Review, Kennywood, Sandcastle Water Park, and Idlewild & Soak Zone  which are located in West Mifflin, West Homestead, and Ligonier Township, respectively  are the amusement parks in question, all of which are owned by Parques Reunidos in Madrid.

Reuters further reports that Parques Reunidos has tapped JP Morgan to conduct a review of all of its assets in the country  which comes to 15 amusement parks total  although sources close to the matter confirmed that the review is simply in its early stage.

Trade publication, Theme Park Insider, notes how this news has come after the industry underwent another major change not too long ago: Cedar Fair and Six Flags moved forward in a merger that combined all 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and nine resort properties under one, $3.5 billion-plus company.

The same Tribune-Review article notes that, so far, the parks under the Parques Reunidos umbrella could be valued at about $1.09 billion.

The same sources informed Reuters that the J.P. Morgan review is expected to take place after the summer season after the heightened crowds die down.
An NJ Transit commuter train lost power and was stuck in the Hudson River tunnel for almost three hours on July 31. A week later, officials from NJ Transit and Amtrak  which owns the tracks  are disagreeing about why it took so long for riders to be rescued.

Spokespersons for both agencies said the 7:20 p.m. Northeast Corridor Line train from Penn Station got stuck in the Hudson River tunnel.

Both sides agree the train initially got stranded due to a power disruption. But the two agencies have different explanations for why the rescue took so long. NJ Transit officials said the rescue locomotive wasnt powerful enough to pull the train out of the tunnel. Amtrak officials said the rescue locomotive couldnt couple with the train and a backup needed to be sent in.

The outage was due to a tripped electrical circuit feeding power to trains in the tunnels, said Jason Abrams, an Amtrak spokesman. Officials are investigating what caused it to trip, either an issue stemming from the power system itself or a train collecting power from the power system, he said.

Power was restored to the area within roughly 30 minutes of the event, but the disabled NJ Transit train was unable to progress and remained stranded, necessitating that it be towed from the tunnel, Abrams said.

NJ Transit officials said initial reports were that wires may be down, which required an abundance of caution for both the safety of the passengers and crew members, said Kyalo Mulumba, an agency spokesperson. Inspections had to be done before Amtrak could dispatch a rescue engine, he said.

Once inspections ruled out a downed wire, Amtrak sent a rescue locomotive which connected to the train, he said.

Unfortunately, the rescue engine that was dispatched did not have sufficient power to bring train 3879 into Penn Station New York, Mulumba said.

Amtrak had to dispatch a second rescue engine, which required disconnecting the initial rescue engine from the train, and connecting the second rescue engine, which took some time, he said. The second rescue engine was able to bring train 3879 into Penn Station New York at approximately 10 p.m., Mulumba said.

Amtrak officials provided the following timeline. At 8:34, the rescue train was sent out had to perform an inspection prior to coupling with the train, Abrams said. At 9:18 p.m. the rescue engine tried to couple to the train. At 9:34, it was determined it would not work and Amtrak had to switch to an electric engine, he said.

The new rescue engine was coupled to the train at 9:52, and on the move at 9:59 p.m. It arrived at 10:02 in the station, he said.

Passengers on social media said commuters spent roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes on the train as onboard temperatures rose and air got stale. Riders told Bloomberg, which first reported the story, that some passengers suffered panic attacks and NYC firefighters treated two people who complained of medical issues after the train was pulled back to Penn Station.

There was word that two passengers requested EMS, which was available at Penn Station New York when the train pulled into the platform, Mulumba said.

One rider said on the NJ Transit Reddit site that it took 40 minutes for the first rescue engine to reach the train and then they waited another hour before the second attempt was made.

One Reddit user wrote, (I) understand that there are decades of infrastructure failures and neglect causing issues ... but theres no excuse for the complete lack of preparedness for an emergency, something like this shouldnt happen less than 1000 feet away from the busiest train station in the country.

Commuters who asked the NJ Transit crew members if they could get out and walk back to the station said the response was, No, and if you try youll either be electrocuted or arrested.

Mulumba said onboard communications are part of the incident investigation.

To be clear, passenger and crew safety was at the forefront of everyones actions and remaining onboard the train was the safest course of action given the location of the train after it lost power, he said.

The incident prompted outrage from elected officials whove been demanding answers after a summer of delays and service suspensions that started in May and have brought criticism of both Amtrak and NJ Transit.

New Jerseyans need accountability for the nightmare scenario we saw unfold last week, said U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-6th Dist. The most upsetting part of it was the total lack of official updates as people sat on a hot, dark train for hours without knowing what the hell was going on.

Calling it unacceptable, Pallone said the agency has to implement a better strategy for coordinating and communicating during emergencies and delays to regain the publics trust.

Republican State legislators have been calling for audits and probes in the wake of the summer-long delays and service suspensions. State Sen. Michael Testa, R-Atlantic, last month called on NJ Transit CEO Kevin Corbett to resign.
An Atlantic County woman who was bitten by a dog claims responding New Jersey State Police troopers arrested her for unpaid parking tickets and took her to jail, where she was strip searched and denied medical treatment, according to a recently filed lawsuit.

Julie Carty, 52, was walking along Unexpected Road in Buena Vista Township on Nov. 19, 2022, when the dog bit her on the leg, causing puncture wounds and lacerations, according to the lawsuit filed in June in Superior Court of Atlantic County.

She called police and responding troopers arrested Carty for outstanding traffic tickets and took her to the Atlantic County Jail, the lawsuit states.

At the jail, Carty was subjected to a strip search, which she claims was conducted without reasonable suspicion and in the presence of male officers, the lawsuit states.

Carty claims New Jersey State Police and Atlantic County Jail staff failed to provide immediate and necessary medical attention for her dog bite injuries, causing prolonged pain and suffering.

A spokeswoman for the jail said Thursday the facility does not comment on pending litigation. A State Police spokesman did not respond to a request for comment.

The lawsuit argues State Police and the jail had a duty to protect Carty from harm, but instead created a danger by conducting the strip search inappropriately and failing to provide medical care.

Carty alleges cruel and unusual punishment, unreasonable search and seizure and deprivation of her rights without due process, along with violations of the New Jersey Constitution.

The lawsuit claims that Atlantic County failed to adequately train personnel on proper strip-search procedures, and that the search was an invasion of her privacy, causing humiliation and emotional distress.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- With the majority of registered Democrats and Republicans expected to vote along party lines in the upcoming presidential election, independent voters could end up holding the key to the White House.

Since replacing President Joe Biden at the top of the Democratic ticket, Vice President Kamala Harris has made significant strides within this crucial voter group, according to a new NPR/PBS/Marist poll released Tuesday.

The poll showed Harris leading former President Donald Trump by nine points among independent voters, 53% to 44%, which represents an enormous 23-point swing from the groups July 23 poll, which showed Trump leading Harris by 14 points among independents, 46% to 32%.

Overall, the most recent poll, which included responses from 1,513 registered voters between Aug. 1 and Aug. 4, showed Harris leading Trump 51% to 48% among all respondents, a four-point improvement from the July 23 poll when she trailed Trump by one point.

Even when including third-party choices, like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Jill Stein, Harris maintained her three-point lead, in that case leading 48% to 45%.

Regardless of whom they supported, registered voters were split, 48% to 48%, as to who they think will ultimately win the election, though even a tie in this category can be viewed as an encouraging sign for Democrats, with Trump previously holding a 20-point lead over Biden on the same question in previous polls.

For months, comments on the presidential race typically included the phrase, baked in. Thats no longer the case, said Lee M. Miringoff, director of the Marist Institute for Public Opinion. Democrats have renewed enthusiasm and confidence with Harris at the top of the ticket, and the new matchup has ignited interest in the contest on both sides.
Veteran political pollster Frank Luntz said that Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris is now the frontrunner in the 2024 presidential race against Republican former President Donald Trump.

I know the Trump people, their minds will explode, Luntz said on BBCs Newsnight. Harris has got the intensity, shes got the momentum, shes bringing people back into the political fold that had left when Joe Biden was going to be the candidate.

Luntz said that Harriss ability to connect with these voters has given her a substantial boost, VINnews reported.

Luntz said that Trump had made a series of misstatements and that Trumps vice presidential pick, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, has not done well.

Luntz said that Dem vice presidential pick Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota is very presentable, knows the issues, complements Harris well and could help solidify the Democratic base and draw undecided voters.

Shes got the wind at her back, Luntz said of Harris.

That said, Luntz believes that Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro would have been a more impactful choice as vice president for Harris given his connection to crucial swing state Pennsylvania.

Luntz also said that the upcoming Democratic National Convention, set to kick off in Chicago on Aug. 19, should give Harris an additional boost.

Luntz said voter engagement is overall higher now that Harris is in the race, energizing voters who were concerned about Bidens age.

But despite Harris advantages, Luntz said that the election is still very tight and that this is Trumps election to lose based on the publics belief that his administrationwas better than the Biden-Harris administration.

Said Luntz, But hes losing it with speeches that have the same sort of ad hominem attacks to a public that has had enough and wants to look for something different, something new.
Vice President Kamala Harris is heading down the racetrack to the oval office with a staggering amount of money, a vice presidential pick, and millions of potential Democratic voters in tow.

But what about potential voters on the other side of the aisle?

Well, some Republican elected officials are taking on the mission of flipping red voters to Harris side into their own hands.

Under the name started by the Harris campaign, Arizona Republicans started the Grand Canyon states chapter of Republicans for Harris.

Mesa Mayor John Giles and former state representative Robin Shaw, heads of the Arizona chapter of Republicans for Harris, said that they will form a new advisory committee to appeal to Republican voters in the battleground state who dont want to vote for Trump to try and get them to vote for the Democratic nominee in November, Newsweek reported.

But these two Republicans arent the only officials joining the Harris train.

Dubbed a grassroots movement by Newsweek, Republicans for Harris launched this past week with a slew of high-standing red officials behind it, involving several former Republican members of Congress and governors, former Trump press secretary Stephanie Grisham and ex-Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan.

In particular, this movement will target the more moderate Republicans who cast their ballot for Nikki Haley earlier this year.

Haley ultimately threw her hat in favor of former President Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention earlier this month, encouraging her followers to side with the former president, to which one of her PACs responded with a resoundingNo.

The Haley Voters for Biden PAC will be siding with Harris, Newsweek reported, and will switch their name to feature the vice presidents.

Keep in mind that this particular PAC is not affiliated with the Stand For America or Nikki Haley for President PACs.

The time has come for us as Arizona Republicans to admit the obvious and to start saying the quiet part out loud, which is that our partys nominee is not qualified for office, and that we need to vote for an adult in the room, and that is Kamala Harris, Giles said, according to Newsweek.

This, of course, is not a trivial matter to the other Arizona Republicans remaining closely attached to the party and its nominee. As Newsweek wrote, Gina Swoboda, chairwoman of the Republican Party of Arizona, condemned Giles, who is mayor of Phoenixs largest suburb, for leading the Republicans for Harris movement.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that she has deployed 100 National Guard members and allocated additional agency resources to areas impacted by severe thunderstorms.

In her address, Hochul is urging New Yorkers to prepare for heavy rain and flash flooding starting Tuesday afternoon and continuing into Wednesday.

According to Hochul, New York City and Long Island can see up to five inches of rainfall by Wednesday, along with damaging wind gusts.

Hochul said it could potentially rain up to three inches per hour, making the possibility of flash flooding higher.

Transportation, residential flooding and power outages could potentially happen to New Yorkers, according to Hochul.

The governor also warned of potential additional heavy rain 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, 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 start Tuesday afternoon in the lower Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island regions. New York residents might get up to five inches of rain in some locations by Wednesday, according to Hochuls announcement.

My administration is closely monitoring today's storm downstate and deploying resources to keep New Yorkers safe.



We're calling on all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and watch the forecast closely over the next several days. pic.twitter.com/tE9xhwbjJ3  Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) August 6, 2024

New York state prepares

The New York National Guard will mobilize 100 soldiers and airmen with 25 high-axle vehicles to provide assistance to New York City and Long Island residents, Hochul said.

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, at Hochuls direction, has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to track the storm in real time in order to support local governments requests for assistance.

New York states water rescue teams are ready to be deployed as needed.

Twenty airmen and five vehicles will be on call at F.S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base in Westhampton Beach.

The State Department of Transportation has prepared more than 3,429 supervisors and operators to respond with any type of response crew needed, according to the governors announcement.

Thruway Authority staff is ready to respond to all flood-related issues across New York with 671 operators and supervisors.

New Yorks 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.

State Police are prepared to deploy additional troopers as needed to affected areas, Hochul said.

Statewide, New York has, 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, 346 large and small dump trucks, 63 loaders, 34 trailers, six vac trucks, 13 excavators, seven brush chippers, 100 chainsaws, 22 aerial trucks, 25 skid steers, 86 portable generators and 70 portable light units.

Severe weather safety tips

Hochul suggests New Yorkers prepare for severe weather by having disaster supplies, such as a flashlight, battery-operated radio and first aid kit handy.

If caught in a flash flood, residents should never attempt to drive on a flooded road. If water begins to rise rapidly around you in your car, abandon the vehicle immediately, the governors announcement said. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car, emergency experts say.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Tropical Storm Debby has changed course.

Initially, the storm responsible for the deaths of six individuals was forecast to steer just east of New York City, as reported by AccuWeather.

That trajectory has since switched tracks. Instead of passing east of New York City, the storm is now expected to take a more inland route and plow through the heart of New York State.

With the eye shifting west of the city, the anticipated areas of impact are changing.

An AccuWeather graphic shows the forecast eye path of Debby through Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024. (Courtesy of AccuWeather)(Courtesy of AccuWeather)

When and what to expect in New York

Debby first made landfall in Florida on Monday as a Category 1 hurricane before devolving into a tropical storm, according to AccuWeather.

In the time since, Debby has devastated the Southeast with more than 20 inches of rain, wind gusts of up to 99 mph and up to six feet of storm surge in select areas.

Debby has certainly slammed on the brakes on Tuesday as we were concerned about with its forward speed down to a few miles per hour, compared to the 10-15 mph speed it had over the Gulf of Mexico this past weekend, AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said

Fortunately, it doesnt appear that New York residents will need to worry about withstanding 20 inches of rainfall. However, heavy rainfall is forecast for much of the state.

Although the storm continues to stall in the South, by Friday afternoon, New York will feel the impact of Debby, as indicated by the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

The deep tropical moisture from Debby will interact with a cold front on Friday to produce heavy rainfall which will extend into Friday night.

The exact areas expected to bear the worst rainfall remains depend on the course of Debby.

A National Hurricane Center graphic shows the flash flood risk in New York from Wednesday, Aug. 7, through Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024. (Courtesy of the National Hurricane Center)(Courtesy of the National Hurric

As of Wednesday morning, the NHC notes that all of central and northern New York is posed with a moderate risk (at least a 40% chance) of receiving heavy rainfall capable of producing rapid onset flooding.

Included in this target range is Syracuse, Albany, Binghamton and Ithaca.

Enhancing the risk of flooding across the state is the extent of recent heavy rainfall and saturated soil, the NHC reports.

Unlike the Southeast, which has been battered for days on end, the direct rainfall from Debby will be limited to a day or so from northern Virginia to New England, notes AccuWeather.

Rainfall and thunderstorms in New York City

While the eye of the storm has moved further away from New York City, the five boroughs should still brace for considerable rainfall and the potential for thunderstorms.

Were mainly looking at that rainfall during the Friday into Friday night timeframe, National Weather Service (NWS) Meteorologist Brian Ciemnecki said. Right now (Wednesday morning), rainfall totals, were looking at between an inch and a half to two inches with some isolated higher amounts. And thats going to mainly come in the form of showers and thunderstorms.

Some of these storms hold the potential of escalating into a severe threat, according to Ciemnecki. Embedded in these thunderstorms is the potential for producing gusty winds.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. Rafael Huseynov has been honored with the "Sharaf" Order for his outstanding contributions to Azerbaijani literature and his long-term social and political activities, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a relevant decree in this regard.
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.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Matt Damon and Casey Affleck are born and bred Bostonians. Its where they grew up, lived together and then starred in their breakout hit Good Will Hunting (for which Damon won an Oscar with his co-writer, that other Affleck  and Caseys older brother  Ben). But when Damon and Affleck returned to Boston to shoot their new film The Instigators, the reaction from locals was less starstruck and more nonplussed. Its right in the neighbourhood, so you might as well, shrugged one woman, who told local news site boston.com she was a little bit of a Damon fan as she waited to watch filming. Another complained, What a mess. Freakin Boston, you guys. Seems theyre not so much hometown heroes as just inconveniently in the way. Casey Affleck (left) on the Boston set of The Instigators with director Doug Liman (middle) and Matt Damon. Boston has its own tall poppy syndrome, like Australia, you know, its the same thing, says Damon, laughing. Look, its a very blue-collar town. Its like, dont get too big for your britches, you know, stay humble. Dont start thinking youre better than anybody. Thats very baked into the culture and who we are. You know [and here he slips into a peak Boston accent], Youre not better than me. Thats a very Boston thing. Affleck: Matt, you were saying [Chris] Hemsworth has gotten too big for his britches. Damon: Definitely. You gotta cut him down.

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The pair, who I am talking to over Zoom, are sitting next to each other in directors chairs, Affleck wearing a cap and slightly slumped, while Damon leans forward, always eager to keep the conversation flowing, thrilled that Im talking to them from Australia. Are you in Sydney right now? he asks, while Affleck mutters a hey. I am. Oh wow. Thank you so much for getting up for us. (Please, there are few actors I have watched more consistently than Damon, while Affleck is, arguably, a much better actor than his brother.) The Good Will Hunting Crew (from left): Casey Affleck, Minnie Driver, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and Cole Hauser. Credit: Alamy Stock Photo The Instigators is Afflecks baby, a darkly humorous crime caper about a desperate father, Rory (Damon), and an ex-jailbird, Cobby (Affleck), who are recruited to rob a local politician on election night. When the plot goes awry, Rorys therapist (Hong Chau) gets caught up in the action as they try to outrun not only the police but also the gangsters who hired them to do the job. Affleck wrote The Instigators with another Bostonian, Chuck MacLean, the showrunner behind the Boston crime drama City on a Hill (sensing a theme here?) because he was nostalgic for the buddy comedies he grew up with.

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I just hadnt seen one in a long time that was really great and I actually had never been able to be in one, he says. Theres a few of them that I watched growing up and then watched with my kids  Midnight Run, even The Sting is kind of a buddy comedy  and theyre some of my favourite movies. I just really wanted to do a good one. He didnt write it with Damon in mind, though  I always send him movies to do as an actor, and he never wants to do them. So I stopped dreaming, says Affleck. He did want Damon to direct, though. But, again, Damon said no. The person who did convince Damon to take on The Instigators was his wife, Luciana Barroso, who stepped in as a producer, along with Damon and Ben Affleck and their company Artists Equity. Hong Chau, Casey Affleck and Matt Damon get moving in the getaway car in The Instigators. I feel like I have to defend myself here, says Damon. I do love Caseys writing, and I love every chance I can to work with him. And then once we started talking about it, and once we got [director] Doug Liman on board  it was really exciting to re-team with people from different parts of my life, and I just had a feeling it was going to be a great experience, and it was. It was Liman who directed Damon in the first of the Jason Bourne films, The Bourne Identity, where he sent him screaming through the streets of Paris in a beat-up Mini. In The Instigators, the action is just as frenetic, but Damons character, Rory, is not as adept at handling the heat as Jason Bourne. Was Damon nervous about being beaten up by Liman again?

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Oh god no, no, no, he says. Doug, I think, has an unfair reputation for being chaotic when he works, but theres a difference. Theres a creative chaos thats really good and that leads to the great movies that he makes. But actually Doug and I and Artists Equity, our company, put our own money up. We were the backstop if the film went over budget. Thats how much I trust him. I was so sure that we were going to come in on budget, and we did, and there was never really a doubt about it. So hopefully, that puts to rest this kind of accusation that Doug is out of control because that is the thing thats been dogging his reputation for 20 years now, I think unfairly. Matt Damon and Franka Potente in 2002s The Bourne Identity, the film in which Damon first worked with director Doug Liman. Affleck, meanwhile, was nervous he wouldnt be able to live up to Limans Bourne standards. Loading If you look at Bourne, Matt is perfect in that movie, says Affleck. And its hard to do. I have more appreciation for it now because you do it in these teeny, tiny little moments. All that action is shot in three-second little bits. Its not easy as an actor, and  at the time [of filming], I was like, I dont know if Im going to be able to pull this off. Ive never done that kind of action, but with a little bit of Matt yelling at me, telling me Im doing it wrong, how to do it better, and Doug being patient, we got there. The Instigators marks the seventh time Damon and Affleck have worked together on screen  from their breakthrough in Good Will Hunting in 1997 through to Steven Soderberghs three Oceans capers, plus Gus Van Sants Gerry and last years Oscar winner Oppenheimer  far more than Damon has ever worked on screen with Ben Affleck.

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They put their partnership down to a 43-year friendship that began when Damon and Ben Affleck met as 10 and eight-year-olds in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just across the Charles River from the city of Boston. The older Affleck then introduced Damon to his five-year-old brother. They all shared the same high school drama teacher, and when Damon and Ben Affleck sat down to write and then shoot Good Will Hunting, Casey was there, too. Geroge Clooney (clockwise from far left), Brad Pitt, Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Elliott Gould, Eddie Jemison, Matt Damon, Shaobo Qin and Don Cheadle in a scene from Oceans Twelve. I remember how good Casey was in that movie, says Damon. Ben and I always said he was the best actor in the movie. But I do remember the first day of filming, Ben and I were in the front seat of a car, Casey was in the back. We were shooting this scene and Gus [Van Sant, the director] says action, and Casey goes, Can I get a double burger? [Damon does this in a super-broad Boston accent] And I turned around in my seat and looked at him, like, if you mess up our movie, that we spent five years getting to this point, and he just looked at me and he was like, I know what Im doing. Guys, dont worry, I know what Im doing, because we tend to like to do things more naturally, but Casey was taking a big swing, and luckily, it worked. Adds Affleck: From my perspective, up until that point, we had all just been trying to get jobs in other peoples things, more or less. And that was a case of the mountain coming to Muhammad a little bit. It was like, wow, these dudes had written something and gotten a good director, like a real director Id actually worked with before [in 1995s To Die For] and held in very high regard, and now hes coming to do something that they had written. That was a big deal. And I didnt think this [at the time], but looking back, it must have changed my attitude completely about what you can do in the industry. You dont have to just be, you know, hat in hand, door to door, looking for a job. You can make it.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. President Ilham Aliyev has expressed condolences to relatives and friends of Ismail Berdiyev, the Chairman of the Coordination Center of Muslims of the North Caucasus and the Mufti of the Russian Karachay-Cherkess Republic, Trend reports.

"I received with deep sorrow the sad news of the passing of Ismail Aliyevich Berdiyev, the Chairman of the Coordination Center of Muslims of the North Caucasus and the Mufti of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic.

Haji Ismail was a great friend of Azerbaijan. He made a significant contribution to the development of friendly and neighborly relations between Azerbaijan and Russia. In recognition of his many years of fruitful work in strengthening friendly ties between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Russia, he was awarded the State Order of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Dostlug.

Haji Ismail's extensive spiritual work in promoting religious tolerance and understanding, as well as deepening interfaith and intercivilizational dialogue, earned him deep respect not only within his own country but also beyond its borders.

I fondly remember the meetings and conversations with Haji Ismail, especially our last meeting this past May in Baku. His bright memory will forever remain in our hearts.

I express my sincere condolences and share your pain in this heavy loss. I mourn with you.

May Allah rest his soul in peace!" President Ilham Aliyev said.
The closest Celia Pacquola has come to walking through the big blue door of infinite comic possibility on the set of Thank God Youre Here was when her sister surprised her in costume at her own front door.

That was super cute, says Pacquola, who returns to host the second season of Working Dogs reboot of its popular theatresports show. Last season, they were coming over to my place for dinner. And they did a Thank God Youre Here on me! I opened the door to them and the scenario was [that] it was an awards night, and I was on the red carpet, and I was getting an award. My niece Evelyn, who was 10, had written a full script, and my sister was in a feather boa and had picked up the fish and chips dressed like that.

Celia Pacquola returns for the second season of Thank God Youre Here.

Strictly a writer-comedian, Pacquola prefers her performances scripted, edited and polished, including her stand-up routines. Her 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival show, Im As Surprised As You Are, marked her return to the live circuit after a five-year break of lockdowns and caring for her 2-year-old daughter, Eleanor, with Irish photographer Dara Munnis.

The thought of lurching into an improvised sketch  or worse, a full show, as Wil Anderson did with his successful 2022 touring experiment Whatchu Talkin Bout Wil?  fills Pacquola with dread. So she is relieved to be pushing her comedian friends once again into the Thank God Youre Here tableaux, to test their wit and imagination.
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Eating outSpecials board From posh pies to juicy pork chops: 10 of Sydneys best pub dining specials Dining out just got more affordable and fun, with these great value specials all for under $30 a meal. Meet you at the pub! Isabel Cant August 8, 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

Money too tight to mention? Dinner at the pub is a fun and great value option  especially when theres a specials night. Here are 10 of Sydneys best pub specials to check out right now. Its the latest instalment in our budget-friendly Specials Board series, designed to help you dine out this winter without forking out too much. The pork chop has landed at Taphouse Sydney. Supplied Taphouse Sydney for the pork chop Move over chicken schnitty, the pub pork chop has landed. Taphouse Sydneysmodern Cantonese pub menu is now even better midweek, with the arrival of Super Cool Pork Chop Wednesdays, featuring a pork chop curry inspired by Hong Kongs famous Sun King Yuen restaurant. For $12, a double-fried pork chop is served on a bed of jasmine rice with a Cantonese-style curry sauce, fragrant with spices, lemongrass, makrut lime and galangal.



122 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst, taphousesydney.com.au The luxe seafood laksa at The Henson Hotel. Supplied

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The Henson Park Hotel for the seafood laksa This pokie-free community hub has built a steady following for its refreshingly different South-east Asian pub dining offering, with a rotating monthly special keeping things interesting. Their current offering is a deluxe seafood laksa for $28. The Hensons rendition pumps up the luxe laksa factor with squid, mussels and prawns atop tofu puffs, vermicelli noodles and vegetables. Reel it in from now until mid-September.



91 Illawarra Road, Marrickville, thehenson.com.au The bistro dining room at The Royal Richmond Hotel. Supplied The Royal Richmond for the rump steak Heritage hotel The Royal Richmond focuses on highlighting the Hawkesburys finest produce, and has a dedicated space to dry age the variety of beef cuts on its menu. The Southern Stations Wagyu rump is just $20 every Wednesday night, served with chips and a punchy peppercorn sauce. It might just be Sydneys best pub rump.



163 Windsor Street, Richmond, theroyalrichmondhotel.com.au

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Bao buns at the Woolahra Hotel. Supplied Woollahra Hotel for the bao buns Former Spice Temple and Chin Chin chef Jordan Muhammad brings his golden cooking touch to the recently refurbished Woollahra Hotels Asian-influenced weekly specials. Get a one-way ticket to Bao Town Tuesdays, with three baos for $15. The Japanese-inspired bao includes crispy karaage with cos lettuce and spicy mayonnaise, while the classic Chinese-style roast duck bao with cucumber, spring onion and hoisin sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.



116 Queen Street, Woollahra, woollahrahotel.com.au Harbord Hotel for the woodfired pizza

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This breezy beachside pubs not-so-secret weapon is its woodfired oven, which is put to good use throughout its modern menu. This includes their funky array of Cali-style pizzas, which have the beautifully blistered dough of a Neapolitan-style pizza, but the licence to let loose on creative flavours. Every Tuesday from 5pm to 9pm, their entire pizza menu drops from its usual $25 to $32 price-point to $18 to $20. The top pick? The Bo Peep, loaded with woodfired lamb shoulder, figs, rocket, goats cheese and mint verde.



29 Moore Road, Freshwater,harbordhotel.com.au Sydney rock oysters are just $2 each at The Erko on weekends. Supplied The Erko for the oysters If $6+ per oyster is more than you feel you can shell out right now, pop along to The Erko, which slings $2 Sydney rocks all day every Saturday and Sunday. Served a la natural with lemon, you wont find them on the menu during the week, making them the perfect way to start your weekend pub sesh. Pair them with a refreshing mini martini that the Erko serves on the weekend for $12.



102 Erskineville Road, Erskineville, theerko.com.au Pizzas with shaved truffle at The Dolphin Hotel. Supplied

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The Dolphin Hotel for the truffle specials Executive Chef Danny Corbett is seeing out the cold months with Mediterranean cuisine-leaning The Dolphins truffle specials. Until August 12 you can indulge in a sweetcorn risotto with egg yolk ($28), and a white salami pizza ($30), both shaved with Manjimup black truffles. Then until August 25, lashings of truffle will be shaved over silver beet ricotta raviolo ($32), and a bacon n egg pizza with crispy pancetta, a free-range egg and cime di rapa ($30).



412 Crown Street, Surry Hills, dolphinhotel.com.au/public-bar Pie, creamy mash and peas are the $22 special at The Woolwich. Supplied Woolwich Pier Hotel for the pie and mash and peas Is this Sydneys best (value) pub pie? You might want to head along to the Woolwich on a Wednesday to find out. Priced at just $22, the chuck steak number in pepper sauce comes with creamy mashed potatoes and green peas. Come back frequently enough, and youll catch head chef Grant Stevenson switching it up with a just-as-delicious chicken and leek pie with the same trimmings.



2 Gale Street, Woolwich, woolwichpierhotel.com.au

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Mussels at Four in Hand. Supplied Four in Hand for the mussels PSA seafood fans: its mussels night every Thursday at Four in Hand Hotel, where for $22, a large bowl of Belgian-style mussels is yours, with a tomato and chilli sauce and toasted sourdough bread.



105 Sutherland Street, Paddington, fourinhand.com.au The Toxteth for the gyros

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Following on from the South Australian opposition leaders resignation earlier today, Liberal Senator Simon Birmingham says it was David Speirs own decision to leave.

Speaking on ABC Afternoon Briefing, Birmingham noted Speirs made the call a long distance out from the next state election, and thanked him for his work as an energetic leader focused on some of the critical early failings of the Malinauskas government.

South Australian Opposition Leader David Speirs. Credit: David Mariuz

He has led a stacked parliamentary team that has shown significant unity in that time, and I hope that unity can continue forward under a new leader who will bring their own drive and zeal to the job of holding government to account here, Birmingham said.

When asked about suggestions Speirs confidence was undermined by his colleagues, Birmingham said it was a huge undertaking to lead a political party.

He came to his own decision and is clear about the fact that there are personal, family and other reasons attached to that, Birmingham said.

We respect that and the party will now regroup under a new leader and those discussions will happen among my state colleagues over the next few days.

Speirs earlier told media the leadership would be declared vacant at a joint party room meeting on Monday.

He said he thought he made a fairly good attempt at consolidating the party after taking on its leadership when it was at the depths of despair in 2022.

To be honest, Ive had a gutful, Speirs said.

Its not easy being leader of the opposition - and doing it for two years and four months has certainly taken its toll on me, and its taken its toll on my family and my friends.

Its extremely easy to throw rocks at the leader of the opposition its extremely easy to have different ideas as to how you might do it better.
Artist Vincent Fantauzzo is one of our most acclaimed portraitists. He has painted the prime minister, exhibited globally, won numerous awards and has a Brisbane hotel named in his honour. Oh, and hes married to actor Asher Keddie.

Hes also the proud owner of Sandro, a Staffordshire Terrier type who has just cost his dog daddy more than $7000 in fines, compensation and court costs after an early-morning walk descended into a dog-eat-dog melee.

Asher Keddie and Vincent Fantauzzo.

Fantauzzo was found guilty in the Magistrates Court of Victoria of being liable for a dog attack causing serious injury and contravening an order to control a dog.

Events spiralled out of control at 6.40am on December 8, 2022, when Sandro, accompanied by Fantauzzo, encountered fellow dog Banjo while out on a walk near the corner of Inkerman Street and St Kilda Road in St Kilda.
The Sydney Fish Market is taking legal action against the NSW government and construction giant Multiplex to obtain documents related to its $836 million new premises, claiming in an escalating dispute that it may be forced to operate two competing fish markets side by side if its tenants refuse to move from their current site.

The taxpayer-funded new fish market under construction at the head of Blackwattle Bay is expected to open in October next year  a year late  and operators are talking to celebrity chef Luke Nguyen and hatted restaurateur Junda Khoo about being anchor tenants.

An artists impression of the new Sydney Fish Market.

The projected cost of the construction has ballooned from an initial estimate of $250 million in 2017 to $836 million costed in the latest budget papers.

The Herald revealed in March that a dispute over the design of the building had left the Sydney Fish Market management sandwiched between the NSW government and their subtenants, who operate wholesale and retail outlets at the existing premises.
An employee of a warehouse storing a wealth of unreleased Bluey themed coins has been charged with stealing $600,000 worth of the currency from the back of a truck.

In July, police were told 63,000 unreleased $1 coins featuring the popular Australian cartoon character were taken from a storage facility in Wetherill Park in Sydneys west.

The cartoon character Bluey, some of the seized coins, and the man arrested by NSW Police. Credit: ABC/Ludo Studio, NSW Police

Strike Force Bandit was formed to investigate. Bandit is the name of Blueys dad in the long-running show.

The 1 dollarbuck coins were produced by the Australian Mint in a limited edition, and feature six-year-old blue heeler Bluey holding a balloon on the front and King Charles on the back.
Almost 250 staff and students from Sydney University were victims of sexual assault and harassment last year, as vice-chancellor Mark Scott says more needs to be done to protect the community.

While reports of misconduct have more than doubled since 2022, the vast majority of victims dont want the university to investigate.

Almost 250 staff and students from Sydney University were victims of sexual assault and harassment last year. Credit: Oscar Colman

Sydney Universitys second annual report on sexual misconduct on campus, released on Tuesday, revealed 246 reports of sexual assault and harassment in 2023. The figures represent a 103 per cent increase from the 121 reports of sexual misconduct in 2022.

Scott said the rise could be attributed to the full return of students to campus, greater awareness of how to seek support, increased referrals to our Safer Communities Office and improvements in reporting processes.
Last year, a woman collecting cans off the Hume Highway near Goulburn stumbled across the remains of 30-year-old Parramatta woman Samah Baker. Four years earlier, Bakers on-and-off partner, James Hachem, had escalated his abuse into murder. It was really bad; he tried to kill me  he tried to choke me, Baker said in a triple-zero call while the pair holidayed in Surfers Paradise in 2017. This is not the first time, but today was really bad  like it really escalated. Bakers death was mourned by her loving family and friends  but the coronial research suggests it was typical of intimate partner homicides.

Hachem was, like 98.4 per cent of all men who killed their female partners, a chronic abuser. He was found guilty of Bakers murder and sentenced to a minimum of 18 years in prison in May 2023. The report found most male killers deployed at least three types of abuse against women: physical, social, economic, stalking and sexual violence were all detected. When women kill The fatal end point of relationships almost always comes after male abuse, researchers found, even in the uncommon cases in which women kill men. The report identified 56 female killers of men, and 46 of those had ended the life of their abusers.

Only one woman in 22 years of data had been both the long-term abuser and, ultimately, the killer of a male partner. Researchers could not conclude whether the man or woman was the abuser in the remaining nine cases of women killing men. Declining DV deaths stall amid high-profile cases In the report, State Coroner Teresa OSullivan says a long-running decline in fatal domestic violence had stalled just as high-profile cases focused the nations attention on the issue.

Loading The sharp rise in the number of women killed across Australia has seen a groundswell of community-led advocacy demanding urgent action to prevent mens violence against women, OSullivan said. The report found half of men convicted of killing women had not been reported to police beforehand. Hachem was one of that cohort with a clean criminal record. Separation particularly dangerous for women

Leaving Sydney to escape that place and James, Samah Baker had written in her journal in 2017. Im so angry, so angry at him, I hate him and I hate myself even more for asking for his help. Baker, like many of the women in the research, had been stalked before her death. Hachem arrived at Bakers house two days before Christmas 2018, and when she did not pick up his calls, she was determined to separate. The coronial researchers said the separation period was particularly dangerous for women with abusive partners.

In almost two-thirds of the 244 (partner) homicides involving a man killing his female partner, the relationship had ended or was breaking down at the time of the homicide, researchers said. Male victims, by comparison, were mostly killed by their current female partners, and there were no plans to separate. Societys poorest over-represented The reports authors found that domestic violence occurs across all society, but people living in the most disadvantaged parts of NSW died more often in domestic violence. More than 40 per cent of both men and women killed in domestic violence were from the bottom fifth of the socioeconomic ladder.

Baker was employed at Lidcombe TAFE at the time of her death, but Hachem had been unemployed for a year at the time he killed her. The couple routinely bickered about small amounts of money for phone bills, and Baker often borrowed money from Hachem for rent and food. Aboriginal Australians were also over-represented in the data, and children from poor families and adults with drug and alcohol problems, too, died more often. Magistrate OSullivan said the report provided crucial insight into domestic violence but acknowledged the data could never convey the profound loss for the families behind the numbers. The courage, resilience and diversity of the individuals whose lives are considered cannot be reflected in numbers, nor can the grief and trauma for those that loved them, she wrote.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. An extraordinary meeting of the Executive Committee of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at the level of foreign ministers was held in Jeddah on August 7, Trend reports, citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

The Republic of Azerbaijan was represented by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Yalcin Rafiyev.

The meeting focused on the latest developments in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict zone, assessing its threats to the region and discussing potential solutions.

Following the discussions, a Final Communique was adopted.
It is almost unimaginable to think of trains running red lights. As a deep-seated fear, it is right up there with shark attacks. But it has happened in Sydney at least eight times over the past two years, creating further safety concerns about the rail network.

Government Information (Public Access) data obtained by the state opposition show there were 340 signal passed at danger (SPAD) incidents in 2022-23 and 2023-24 and eight involved trains entering a potential conflict zone, with a chance of collision or derailment, on freight-only lines. There were none the previous year. Another 24 trains passed the red light signal by more than 100 metres, but remained within a safe distance from trains in front.

Last week, major lines were thrown into chaos and plagued by recurring, urgent signal repairs. Credit: Kate Geraghty

The T1 North Shore & Western Line was the worst affected, with 181 incidents, followed by the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra and T2 Inner West & Leppington Line, with 58 and 45 respectively.

While most resulted from driver error or mechanical failure and posed very little danger to passengers, continuing through red signals has obvious dangers: a coal train ignored a red signal at Beresfield station outside Newcastle in 1997 and ploughed into another stationary coal train, injuring six people including the station master and a commuter.
Once theyd jumped back out of the stands they had just leapfrogged into, and the delirium had subsided just enough to check their phones, the Australian mens team pursuit squad saw the text from Alex Porter.

He said, Im not crying, you are crying, said Sam Welsford. Porters been talking to us about every minute of the day. Hes always been there for us, and for him to be so heavily invested after what happened in Tokyo, that means a lot to us, too.

Alex Porter and Tokyo probably rank quite highly as Google search term combinations. Maybe add handlebars in there, too. It has been three years since Porters handlebars snapped during team pursuit qualification at the last Games, effectively ending Australias chance of a gold medal.

They managed to jag a bronze, but the fallout was significant, and the symbolism of a high-speed equipment malfunction amid an exorbitant international arms race Australia were not winning was difficult to ignore. Australia had not won an Olympic team pursuit gold since 2004 in Athens, and track cyclings marquee event was increasingly being won by well-funded European nations throwing everything at aerodynamics.
Many of the worlds most famous landmarks, some symbolic of their cities and reliable tourist magnets for decades, are not supposed to be with us today. Some were only planned to be temporary structures, while others were earmarked for destruction by developers. However, these would-be lost landmarks survived the wrecking balls and have become legendary.

The Eiffel Tower

Local artists in Paris thought the Eiffel Tower was a monstrosity. Credit: iStock

The world-famous icon of Paris was built for the 1889 World Fair, and a key factor when Gustave Eiffel was given the go-ahead for construction was that it should be easy to dismantle.

Local artists, in particular, thought the Eiffel Tower was a monstrosity, and the original plan was to pull down the worlds tallest man-made structure after 20 years. 1909 rolled by, however, and the tower was a useful telecommunications mast. So it stayed. See toureiffel.paris
IndiGo launched its new seating initiative in response to a customer survey into the aspects of flying that could be improved, and Im not surprised that plenty of women raised complaints over lecherous men. Unwanted advances, no matter how polite, are awkward enough to field in a traditional social setting  at a bar, say  where one can at least just walk away. Being strapped in, thigh-to-thigh, beside a persistent flirt (or worse, a groper) is another matter entirely.

Upon reflection, however, I think its a great idea  though Im not sure why theyve stopped there. Id like the option to not be wedged next to children, obese travellers or anyone with a proclivity towards small talk.

Sex-segregated plane cabins? What fundamentalist nonsense is this? That was my first reaction to the news that IndiGo has become the worlds first airline to introduce such a concept. The budget carrier  one of Indias largest, responsible for 100 million journeys per year  from this month enables female customers to see the gender of their fellow passengers when booking seats so that they can avoid being allocated next to men if they choose.

Figures on exactly how prevalent a problem this is are hard to come by, in part because of how seldom cases are formally reported. But in the US, a recent inquest found that in-flight sexual assaults in the US tripled over five years, prompting an FBI investigation. Just this month, a lawsuit was filed against Southwest Airlines after a 16-year-old boy was assaulted by a registered paedophile on a flight from San Diego to Portland. The American carrier is being blamed for failing to protect the victim because of its unpopular non-assigned seating policy, meaning children are often separated from their parents and end up next to strangers.

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Anecdotally, most of the women I asked had at least one tale to share about inappropriate conduct from a man on a plane. I, myself, was kissed squarely on the lips by a middle-aged lesbian upon landing in Australia in my late teens. Sorry! she giggled, having chatted to me enthusiastically (platonically, I assumed) for the duration of the flight, I just had to! It remains one of the most bizarre moments I have ever experienced. I recall other passengers looking flabbergasted. Had she been male, it would no doubt have been taken more seriously.

Quite why certain people are so emboldened to throw themselves at their fellow travellers within the confines of a plane cabin is an interesting topic. There seems to be a sense of lawlessness that takes over at 35,000 feet; where people take off their shoes, knock back booze at any time of day or night and fart with reckless abandon. Youre also far more likely to cry on a plane, especially when youre alone  the phenomenon of the mile cry club  which some social scientists put down to stranger intimacy.

GP Dr Nick Knight, who has a special interest in lifestyle medicine, says: Youre in an unfamiliar environment, at altitude, away from your comforts of everyday life, surrounded by strangers. Sprinkle in your likely altered human physiology with lower air pressures and oxygen levels and your body and mind go into emotional lability.
Bangkok: They shrieked and jeered and thrust double-barrelled middle fingers at the livestream. A young woman sobbed into a wall of whirring cameras. Few, however, were terribly surprised.

For the hundreds of orange-clad Thais gathered outside the headquarters of the nations most popular erstwhile political party, the fix had long been in.

Former leader of Move Forward Party, Pita Limjaroenrat, crying as he meets his supporters. Credit: AP

The big screens had on Wednesday broadcast the ruling of Thailands Constitutional Court to dissolve the reformist Move Forward Party.

Top leaders, including the charismatic, young figurehead, Pita Limjaroenrat, were banned from politics for a decade.
Dhaka, Bangladesh: Bangladeshs Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been chosen to head the countrys interim government after the nations longtime prime minister resigned and fled abroad in the face of violent unrest 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 on Tuesday that included student protest leaders, military chiefs, civil society members and business leaders.

Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus. Credit: AP

Hasina was forced to flee on 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.
In the days she was vetting Josh Shapiro, a rising star and very popular governor of Pennsylvania (the state Kamala Harris must win to become president), there was serious pushback from some of the partys deep thinkers and interest groups.

The most divisive issue in the Democratic Party  just as it is for Labor in Australia  is Israel and the war in Gaza. Shapiro is a staunch supporter of Israel. With US backing, Israel may be in a regional war with Lebanon and Iran in coming days. This is a crisis that would take a political toll.

Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Credit: AP

At this very moment, was there a safer choice than Shapiro? Harris concluded there was, and chose Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota and 12-year veteran of the House of Representatives. A happy warrior for the middle class in the spirit of the legendary Hubert Humphrey, who served as vice president to Lyndon Johnson. A safe, steady and reliable asset to Harris.

Harris decision came down to the same defining judgment this choice always requires: the private discussion on how closely they will work together. Can the man I am talking to be the most able vice president, who can step in and execute the office in a heartbeat if necessary? Biden chose Harris to be vice president because he knew what the job required after serving Barack Obama as VP for eight years. He also knew exactly what he needed from Harris so they could work together effectively. Harris chose Walz by using that precise lens to assess Shapiro and Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is actively addressing the incidents that transpired over the past two days in the Dutch Quarter area. During this period, multiple properties were damaged, vehicles were set on fire, and public disorder ensued. Two law enforcement personnel, including Marines, sustained injuries. In connection with these events, 18 suspects have been apprehended on charges of property destruction, public disorder, and attempted theft.

These recent actions have understandably caused concern among the Dutch Quarter residents. KPSM acknowledges the potential adverse effects these incidents may have on the neighborhood's overall sense of safety and security.

The KPSM management team wants to clarify that the Police have no issues with the community or the Dutch Quarter as a whole. Only a small group of individuals caused these disturbances.

We commend the Dutch Quarter Community Council for their proactive engagement and leadership in fostering a shift in community attitudes. Their efforts are crucial for achieving sustainable positive change in the Dutch Quarter area.

The KPSM is thoroughly investigating the events and continues to arrest individuals involved in the recent disturbances. We call upon all community members to remain vigilant and support law enforcement efforts to restore peace and order.

Beyond addressing the immediate disturbances, the KPSM also seeks the community's assistance in combating ongoing issues such as gun violence and other criminal activities in the neighborhood. Active community collaboration is essential in our shared mission to establish a safer and more secure environment for all residents.

On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, two representatives of the young men supposedly linked to the recent disorder requested a meeting to discuss the current situation.

Present at this meeting were the Honorable Minister of Justice, Mr. Lyndon Lewis, Chief of KPSM, Mr. Carl John and his management team, and Member of the Parliament, Mr. Omar Ottley.

This fruitful discussion yielded a clear message that:

 Mutual respect for citizens and enforcement officers is paramount.

 Everyone living in any district must be able to move freely and without fear.

 No one's rights should ever be threatened or trampled upon.

 There must be a display of unity to end ongoing disturbances.

 All those involved in the recent events will be held accountable for their actions.

During the discussion, the Chief of Police of Sint Maarten made it abundantly clear that any violence directed towards police officers, including those living in the Dutch Quarter area, will not be accepted or tolerated.

The Police Department of Sint Maarten, in collaboration with the Prosecutors Office and with the general public's support, is set to launch a new firearm amnesty program shortly. This initiative aims to enhance community safety by allowing individuals to turn in their firearms. The program will allow citizens to bring in their firearms to designated drop-off locations without fear of prosecution for illegal possession of firearms not involved in any criminal act. This was also agreed upon by those participating in the discussion.

KPSM would also like to openly thank the residents of the Dutch Quarter who showed their solidarity on Monday morning, August 05th, 2024, and support for law enforcement officers, even providing our officers with some tea and sandwiches while carrying out their duties.

The KPSM remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Sint Maarten citizens. We will continue our relentless efforts to protect our communities and bring those responsible for these criminal acts to justice.

We encourage anyone with information about recent events or other criminal activities to come forward. Tips can be provided anonymously, and all information will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality. Don't hesitate to contact the police tip line at 9300.
PHILIPSBURG: ---Minister of Finance Marika Gumbs said in reaction to the letter she received from the Central Bank regarding the Outline Agreement that will benefit Ennia that she disagrees with the tone of the letter. Gumbs said that the letter was highly circulated on social media, and it was through WhatsApp she received that letter that gave her a warning regarding the unapproved Outline Agreement that is yet to be approved by the Parliament of St. Maarten.

Gumbs said the former Minister of Finance signed off on the agreement in haste before leaving office and did not seek the approval of the parliament of St. Maarten prior to signing off. She explained that she would not be pressured or forced to do anything that would not benefit St. Maarten and its people. Gumbs stated that her only concerns are the 3084 policyholders from St. Maarten, who will be affected.

Asked if she has a solution to replace the current agreement that the former Minister signed off, Gumbs said that she is waiting for the Parliament of St. Maarten to tell her what to do and how to move forward. She mentioned that she is ready to return to parliament to provide the answers to the questions that were asked. Still, the chair of parliament postponed the meeting for security reasons. I am ready to return to parliament and will do so when called.

The Ministers made clear that she is not sleeping on the case, and that she is busy holding talks with other entities that she did not reveal.
Photo: State Committee for Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. Azerbaijani from Montenegro, Shirin Huseynzade, has made true her long-held dream at the V Summer Camp for Diaspora Youth in Lachin, a source in the State Committee for Work with Diaspora told Trend.

According to the source, Huseynzade shared her impressions and joy due to her participation in the amp.

The participant said that since childhood, she has dreamed of visiting the Azerbaijani lands that were previously under occupation and brought a drawing depicting Shusha, which she created at the age of seven.

The camp participant congratulated everyone on the liberation of her native Karabakh from the occupation, honored the memory of the martyrs, and wished health to the veterans.

Expressing gratitude to the state committee for organizing this event, she called on Azerbaijani youth living abroad to take the chance to attend the next summer camps.

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 at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM, the Community Council of the Dutch Quarter held an emergency meeting with residents to address the recent incident between Sunday night and early Monday morning. The conference, attended by the Chief of Police and other officers of KPSM, provided a platform for open discussion and collective resolution.

Council President Mr. Brown led the discussions, acknowledging the shock and anger felt by the community. Despite the recent setbacks, residents expressed a resilient and hopeful attitude, vowing to stand together and positively fight for their community. There was a collective commitment to provide better guidance for the younger generation and to enhance community efforts on this front. Also encouraged by the Community Council President Brown was that if you see something, say something with the hope of discouraging wrongdoing in their community.

Chief of KPSM, Chief John, addressed the gathering, emphasizing that the police are not at war with any community. He reassured residents of the Dutch Quarter and, by extension, the entire island that the KPSM is dedicated to serving and protecting all citizens. Chief John clarified that those responsible for the recent incident will be held accountable according to the law. Alongside him, Inspectors Josepha and Richards reiterated the importance of collaboration to ensure safety and a better environment for all communities.

The meeting concluded with an inspiring message from various contributors, highlighting the district's many successful professionals who are eager to mentor and support the youth in building self-esteem and confidence. This positive outlook set the tone for a successful meeting, and a follow-up meeting has been scheduled to discuss further updates and agreed-upon actions.

KPSM extends its gratitude to Community Council President Mr. Brown, his staff, and all the citizens for their participation and encouragement during last night's meeting. The commitment to work together marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and more supportive community environment.

KPSM Press Release
Commentary

By Jake Fuss and Grady Munro

A new poll shows that the share of Canadians feeling pessimistic about the federal government has reached a new high. This should come as no surprise. Years of poor policy have left Canadians with a stagnant economy and declining living standards. And despite the Trudeau governments recent focus on younger generations, young people appear the most pessimistic of all.

According to the poll conducted by Nanos, 39.8 percent of Canadians feel pessimism towards the federal governmentrepresenting a seven-year high. On the flip side, 7.6 percent feel satisfaction, a seven-year low.

More broadly, 68.7 percent of respondents reported negative feelings (anger or pessimism) towards the federal government while just 16.3 percent reported positive feelings (optimism or satisfaction). The remaining 15.0 percent either werent sure or were simply disinterested.

Again, its not surprising that the majority of Canadians report negative feelings about Ottawa, in light of the Trudeau governments fiscal and economic mismanagement.

For example, due to record-high spending, the Trudeau government will run its tenth-consecutive budget deficit in 2024/25 at a projected $39.8 billion. These deficits have contributed to a remarkable rise in federal government debt since Prime Minister Trudeau first took office. From 2014/15 (the Harper governments last full year) to 2024/25, federal gross debt is expected to have approximately doubled to $2.1 trillion. And the Trudeau government has no plans to change course. Deficits are expected to continue until at least 2028/29, and projections suggest gross debt will increase an additional $400.1 billion over the same period.

What have Canadians gained from all this spending and debt?

Through the implementation of sweeping programs such as $10-a-day daycare and national dental care, the Trudeau government has expanded its role in the lives of Canadians. But because the government has chosen to use taxpayer dollars to provide services that were already offered privately, many Canadians have less choice of how to best use their hard-earned money due to the imposition of higher taxes. Indeed, 86 percent of middle-income families now pay more in taxes than they did in 2015, adding to the cost of living.

At the same time, Ottawa and some provinces have spent tens of billions on corporate welfare with the promise that it will promote economic growth. But over the last decade, the economy has posted its worst performance since the 1930s, and Canadian living standards have been in a historic decline since mid-2019.

Finally, the burden of government debt and poor economic prospects may be why younger generations are feeling the most pessimistic. Indeed, among survey respondents aged 18 to 34, 41.3 percent were pessimistic about the federal government while just 5.3 percent were satisfied (the largest and smallest shares, respectively, relative to all other age groups). Despite the Trudeau governments rhetoric about generational fairness, younger generations face a disproportionately higher tax burden in the future due to debt accumulated today. Meanwhile, according to long-term projections, Canadian living standards will fall further behind comparable countries (including the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom) over the coming decades.

Canadians are worse off today than they were 10 years ago, and should expect higher taxes and relatively little improvement in their living standards in coming years due to poor government policy. Is it any wonder theyre feeling pessimistic?

Jake Fuss is Director, Fiscal Studies, Fraser Institute. Grady Munro is a Policy Analyst at the Fraser Institute.
UN approves peacekeepers to help deal with rebels in eastern DR Congo



United Nations, United States, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024



The UN Security Council on Tuesday authorized the use of peacekeepers in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to provide technical and logistical support to the fight against rebel groups.

The Southern African regional force called SAMIDRC, deployed in North Kivu province, has been assisting DRC government forces in combatting the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, a group that has seized vast reaches of territory in the region since 2021.

The resolution unanimously adopted on Tuesday allows the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC to support the SAMIDRC through "enhanced coordination, information-sharing and technical assistance."

The resolution also welcomed a ceasefire agreement signed July 30 between the DRC and Rwanda, calling for a "lasting" peace between parties.

On Sunday, the day the ceasefire was meant to take effect, an M23 group seized territory on the Ugandan border with North Kivu.

The eastern part of DRC, a region rich in minerals and other wealth, has endured violence for over 30 years amid fighting from local and foreign armed groups. Many of them stem from regional wars dating back to the 1990s.

The deployment of SAMIDRC follows a year-long mission by the East African Community (EAC) after its mandate ended at the request of the DRC government, which accused the EAC of working alongside M23 rebels instead of fighting them.

UN peacekeepers have had a presence in east DRC since 1999 but have been gradually withdrawing from the region, finalizing their departure from South Kivu in June.
US 'will not tolerate' attacks on troops in Mideast: Austin



Annapolis, United States, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024



The United States will not tolerate attacks on American troops in the Middle East, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Tuesday, after rocket fire in Iraq wounded seven US personnel.

The Monday attack was the third in just over three weeks on Ain al-Assad base in western Iraq, which hosts American troops as well as other personnel from the US-led coalition against the Islamic State jihadist group.

"Make no mistake, the United States will not tolerate attacks on our personnel in the region," Austin told a news conference in Annapolis.

A US defense official said earlier in the day that the attack wounded five American military personnel and two contractors, all of whom are in stable condition.

A Pentagon statement on a call between Austin and his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant described the rocket fire as an "Iran-aligned militia attack on US forces" and said the two agreed that it "marked a dangerous escalation."

Such attacks were frequent early in the war between Israel and Hamas Palestinian militants in Gaza, but until recently had 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 either blamed on or claimed by Israel.

The killings are among the most serious series of tit-for-tat attacks that have heightened fears of a regional conflagration stemming from the Gaza war.
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 24 civilians dead as of Tuesday, 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.
Seven US personnel injured in attack on Iraq base



Baghdad, Aug 6 (AFP) Aug 06, 2024



A rocket attack on a base in Iraq wounded seven Americans, a US official said on Tuesday, with Washington blaming an Iran-backed militia group and saying such violence will not be tolerated.

The rocket fire the previous day was the latest in a series of attacks targeting Ain al-Assad base in recent weeks, which hosts American troops as well as other personnel from the US-led coalition against the Islamic State jihadist group.

It came at a time of already heightened tensions in the Middle East, with the region awaiting an expected counterattack by Iran on Israel.

"Five US service members and two US contractors were injured in the attack," in which two rockets struck the base, a US defence official said on condition of anonymity.

Five of the wounded are being treated at the base while two have been evacuated for further treatment, the official said, adding that all are in stable condition.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin later told journalists that "the United States will not tolerate attacks on our personnel in the region."

"In terms of who was behind the attack on Al-Assad, we're sure that it was an Iranian-backed Shiite militia group," but the investigation into which one is still ongoing, Austin said.

The Iraqi government's security media unit said that the country's forces had seized a truck with eight rockets ready for launch and were pursuing the perpetrators of the attack on the military base.

It reiterated the "strong objection" to any aggression, whether from inside or outside Iraq, on Iraqi territories, interests and targets.

"We reject all reckless actions against Iraqi bases, diplomatic missions, and locations of the international coalition advisors, as well as anything that could escalate tension in the region or drag Iraq into dangerous situations," it added.



- Series of attacks -



Such attacks were frequent early in the war between Israel and Hamas Palestinian militants in Gaza, but until recently had 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 week either blamed on or claimed by Israel.

The killings are among the most serious in a series of tit-for-tat attacks that have 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, has already been drawn into the nearly 10-month war.

Monday's rocket attack came after US forces carried out a strike in Iraq last week that a US official said targeted combatants who were attempting to launch drones deemed a threat to American and allied troops.

The strike, which Iraqi sources said left four dead, was the first by American forces in Iraq since February.

There have also been two other recent attacks targeting Ain al-Assad base -- on July 16 and 25.

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.

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.
Pay up or move out: Drug gangs rob Ecuadorans of homes



Duran, Ecuador, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



A family hauls out appliances, furniture, and even a pool table that narcos had moved into their home in southwestern Ecuador after they had abandoned it in fear, unable to pay the protection money demanded from them.

The family recently got its home back after it was recovered by security forces in the city of Duran, which is battling a form of extortion which sees drug traffickers take over parts of neighborhoods seen as strategic for their business.

"They wanted me to pay them $2,000" in exchange for supposed "surveillance" of the house, which was still under construction, the owner told AFP on condition of anonymity.

She paid the criminals $300 but it was not enough to stop the threats against her family.

"I had to leave out of fear. They kill anyone," she said.

Eight months later, she returned and found her home completed and furnished -- to the taste of the narcos.

Under the tin roof, men kick down improvised wooden partitions and throw the criminals' belongings into the street to be burned.

Duran, a small city located on the banks of the Guayas River, is prized by narcos for its access to nearby port city Guayaquil, a hub for the smuggling of cocaine to Europe and the United States.

Duran "has been subjected to the mafias for many years," Billy Navarrete, director of the Permanent Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDH) in Guayaquil, told AFP.

Criminal gangs use homes abandoned by families to hide out, keep hostages, or store drugs and weapons, said Cesar Pena, prosecutor of Guayas state.



- Children recruited -



In Duran, which still has many dirt roads and few public services, children are easy prey for drug traffickers looking to swell their ranks, said Navarrete.

They are forcibly recruited to act as guards, traffickers or hitmen, which causes "irreparable damage to the social fabric" of the city, he said.

"These boys and girls extort within their community. They extort those who saw them born. This didn't happen before."

In 2023, Duran was the city with the second-highest number of homicides in Ecuador, at 450. Guayaquil came first with 2,320.

The prosecutor, Pena, said extortion exploded in the country after the Covid-19 pandemic, fuelled by unemployment. He said the state of Guayas receives some 4,000 reports of extortion monthly.

Criminals target homes, businesses, schools and even human rights organizations.

The CDH has recorded threats against an activist who installed security cameras in a community center in Guayaquil.



- Homes recovered -



If a homeowner "does not pay, they force him to leave the house, eliminate him, kill a family member or plant an explosive device to intimidate him," said Pena.

In a show of force, President Daniel Noboa's government deployed some 1,100 police and military personnel to Duran, warning narcos that their "hours" were "numbered."

In July, at least 100 homes were recovered in Duran. In Guayaquil, 170 houses were handed back to their owners in June.

As the family in Duran tidies up their home, a motorcycle passes by.

These "individuals are riding around on motorcycles to monitor and warn the terrorists," a policeman whispers.
Philippines holds joint patrols with US, Canada, Australia



Manila, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



The Philippines launched on Wednesday two days of joint sea and air exercises with the United States, Canada and Australia, a joint statement said, as Beijing presses its territorial claim over the South China Sea.

The manoeuvres will be held "within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone" and showcase "our collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific", top military officials of the four nations said.

The exercises come as China's sabre-rattling towards Taiwan and over the South China Sea fuels fears of a potential conflict that could drag in the United States.

Beijing claims most of the strategic South China Sea, dismissing an international tribunal ruling that its claims were without basis.

Manila held separate naval exercises in the South China Sea last week, first with the United States and then with Japan two days later.

A joint coast guard exercise is also scheduled off Manila Bay on Friday between the Philippines and Vietnam.

The Philippines has a mutual defence treaty with the United States and signed a treaty with Japan last month that will allow the deployment of troops on each other's territory.

The "multilateral maritime cooperative activity" will be the first as a group by the four nations and involve naval and air force units, a Filipino military spokesman told AFP.

"The naval and air force units of participating nations will operate together enhancing cooperation and inter-operability between our armed forces," said the joint statement, which did not name the participating vessels and military units.

"Australia, Canada, the Philippines and the United States uphold the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, as well as respect for maritime rights under international law, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea."
China says conducts 'combat patrol' near flashpoint Scarborough Shoal



Beijing, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



China on Wednesday carried out a "combat patrol" near the flashpoint Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea aimed at testing the "rapid mobility and joint strike capabilities" of troops, Beijing's military said.

China "organised a joint combat patrol in the sea and air space near Huangyan Island", the People's Liberation Army's Southern Theater Command said, using the Chinese name for the Scarborough Shoal, also claimed by the Philippines.

"All military activities that disrupt the South China Sea, create hotspots, and undermine regional peace and stability are all being controlled to the best extent," the military said.

Beijing claims almost the entire waterway, despite an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

A series of confrontations have taken place between Chinese and Philippine vessels in recent months, particularly around a warship grounded for years by Manila on the contested Second Thomas Shoal.

Beijing has blamed the escalations on Manila, and maintains that its actions to protect its sovereignty in the South China Sea are legal and proportional.
A delegation headed by Vice President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) Ziba Mustafayeva visited the Republic of Uzbekistan, Azernews reports.

The delegation also included Head of the Department of Human Capital Development and Functional Improvement of the SOCAR Head Office Elnur Huseynov, Rector of Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) Elmar Gasimov, and Dean of the Lifelong Learning Department of BHOS Rovshan Budagov.

During the visit, the delegation met with the Rector of the Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology, Prof. Botir Usmanov, and the Institutes faculty. At the meeting, a cooperation agreement was signed between BHOS and the Tashkent Institute of Chemical Technology on the implementation of a dual diploma master's program in Chemical Engineering. There was also an exchange of views on the possibility of conducting joint training between the two higher education institutions.

This cooperation will be implemented within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding on joint training of personnel, signed on July 18, 2023, between SOCAR and the Joint-Stock Company Uzbekneftegaz of Uzbekistan, marking a first in Azerbaijans higher education system.

The dual diploma program will involve students from the Tashkent Chemical-Technological Institute, with teaching carried out by Baku Higher Oil School, utilizing academic and technical support.

At a meeting with Kahraman Khakimov, Deputy Chairman for Regime and Personnel Issues of Uzbekneftegaz JSC, the results of the Memorandum of Understanding signed on July 18, 2023, were discussed, including future cooperation areas between the two universities in human capital development and personnel training.

As part of the visit, the SOCAR delegation met with Sadokat Siddikova, Rector of Bukhara Engineering Technological Institute, to discuss the possibility of implementing a dual diploma program in Petroleum Engineering between BHOS and Bukhara Engineering Technological Institute.

The delegation also visited the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Uzbekistan, including the Heydar Aliyev Center.
Baku. Azerbaijan. August 6. Before Turkiye stopped importing wheat from abroad, it had increased purchases from Russia to a maximum of $140.3 million since January this year, Trend reports.

The Turkish government halted wheat imports from June 21 to October 15 as a measure to protect local producers from falling grain prices.

In June, Russia increased its wheat exports to Turkiye by 11%, reaching $140.3 million. During this period, Russia remained the primary supplier of grain to Turkiye, as imports from Ukraine, traditionally the second-largest exporter, decreased eightfold to $2.1 million.

Overall, Turkiye's wheat imports in June decreased by 0.8%, totaling $143.8 million.
Western ambassadors to skip Nagasaki memorial after Israel snub



Tokyo, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



Ambassadors from Western countries including the United States will skip a ceremony marking the 79th anniversary of the bombing of Nagasaki after Israel was snubbed, officials said Wednesday.

Nagasaki's mayor said last week that Israel's ambassador Gilad Cohen was not invited to Friday's event in the southern Japanese city because of the risk of possible protests over the Gaza conflict.

The US and British embassies said on Wednesday that their ambassadors would not take part as a result, and that their countries would be represented by lower-ranking diplomats.

Media reports said that Australia, Italy, Canada and the European Union, who together with the United States, Britain and Germany signed a strongly worded joint letter to Nagasaki's mayor last month, would follow suit.

US ambassador Rahm Emanuel will not attend "after the mayor of Nagasaki politicised the event by not inviting the Israeli ambassador", an embassy spokesperson told AFP.

Instead, Emanuel, 64, who was ex-president Barack Obama's chief of staff, will go to a separate event at a temple in Tokyo, the spokesperson said.

The British embassy said that ambassador Julia Longbottom would also not be in Nagasaki, saying that not inviting Israel "creates an unfortunate and misleading equivalency with Russia and Belarus -- the only other countries not invited to this year's ceremony".

A spokesperson for the French embassy said that its number two would attend, telling AFP that the "decision not to invite the representative of Israel is regrettable and questionable".

Nagasaki mayor Shiro Suzuki said last week that the decision not to invite Cohen was "not politically motivated" but based on a desire to "hold the ceremony in a peaceful and sombre atmosphere".

In June Suzuki said Nagasaki had sent a letter to the Israeli embassy calling for an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza.

Cohen, who was invited to and attended a memorial ceremony on Tuesday in Hiroshima, said last week the Nagasaki decision "sends a wrong message to the world".

"As a close friend and like-minded nation of Japan, Israel has attended this ceremony for many years to honor the victims and their families," he wrote on social media platform X.

Cohen told US broadcaster CNN on Monday that the security concerns were "invented" and that he was "really surprised by (Suzuki) hijacking this ceremony for his political motivations".

In their letter to Suzuki seen by AFP, the six Western envoys had warned that if Israel was excluded "it would become difficult for us to have high-level participation at this event".

Government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi declined to comment on Wednesday, saying invitations were "a decision for the organiser, Nagasaki City."

A Nagasaki official in charge of the ceremony said it was "obviously better to have high-level individuals, like ambassadors themselves, taking part".

"What is important is that representatives of the countries will attend the ceremony," he told AFP.
Russian military blogger who criticised army jailed



Moscow, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



A Russian military blogger who criticised Moscow's conduct in the Ukraine conflict was sentenced on Wednesday to six-and-a-half years' jail for spreading "fakes" about the army, Moscow's court service said.

Andrei Kurshin, a former soldier, accused Russia of cutting water to civilians near the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rig and of bombing a maternity hospital in posts on his "Moscow Calling" Telegram channel.

Kurshin was found guilty of "knowingly spreading false information about Russia's armed forces", according to an article of Russia's criminal code listed by Moscow's court service.

"The court has decided punishment in the form of imprisonment for the term of six years and six months, serving the punishment in a general regime penal colony," it said.

Kurshin fought alongside Russian separatists in east Ukraine when fighting broke out in 2014, but later wrote more moderate posts on social media critical of the army, the Mediazona news outlet reported.

Shortly after Moscow launched its military assault on Ukraine in February 2022, authorities banned criticism of Russia's troops. Since then they have detained thousands of people for protests.

Russia has increasingly sought to rein in its pro-army military bloggers, many of whom have revealed sensitive information about Moscow's offensive that has embarrassed the Kremlin.

Russian nationalist and ex-rebel commander Igor Girkin was sentenced to four years prison in January after repeatedly criticising the Kremlin and Russia's military command.
Rally in Kosovo slams calls to open bridge in divided city



Mitrovica, Kosovo, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



Hundreds of Serbs staged a protest in the divided Kosovo city of Mitrovica on Wednesday against moves to open a bridge separating their community and ethnic Albanians in the restive area.

The bridge has been the scene of frequent clashes since the 1999 war between Serbian forces and Kosovo's ethnic Albanian majority, which left 13,000 dead and ended after a US-led NATO bombing campaign.

Kosovo government officials have called for the opening of the bridge in the northern city, with Prime Minister Albin Kurti saying last week the crossing "must be opened" during a meeting with Western ambassadors.

Protestors carried Serbian flags and listened to the country's national anthem as they rallied near the bridge and slammed Kurti's government.

"For Serbs, this bridge here is a symbol of survival," said local judge Nikola Kabasic.

"Pristina wants to reopen Pandora's box," said another protestor who asked not to be named.

On Tuesday, the NATO-led peacekeeping force KFOR said it would intervene if Kosovo authorities sought to open the bridge.

KFOR maintains a strong presence in Mitrovica and regularly patrols the area around the bridge over the Ibar River that has been closed to cars for years.

The statement 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.

The KFOR statement came 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 been used to receive funds, including pensions, and transfer money to financial institutions in Serbia.

Serbia-Kosovo tensions have simmered for months following the introduction of a rule this year that made the euro the only legal currency in Kosovo and effectively outlawed use of the Serbian dinar.

The move angered 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 declared independence in 2008, a move that Serbia has never acknowledged.
Russian sailing frigate docks in French port despite sanctions: source



La Rochelle, France, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



French authorities allowed the Russian sailing frigate the Shtandart to dock in a French port despite sanctions over Moscow's war against Ukraine, a port source said on Wednesday.

The Shtandart arrived in La Rochelle, on the southwest coast, to replenish supplies and refuel from Monday to Tuesday, said the source, asking not to be named. Russian ships are generally banned from entering EU ports due to the sanctions.

The 34-metre-long (112 feet) three-masted ship, built in 1999 and an exact replica of a frigate belonging to Tsar Peter the Great, was barred from entering Brest and from taking part in the Breton port's maritime festival in July.

But the prefecture of the Charente-Maritime region allowed the vessel to make the stop in La Rochelle.

"(The Shtandart) arrived on Monday morning and left on Tuesday afternoon," said the source, specifying that it was not clear where the boat was headed next.

Contacted by AFP, the Charente-Maritime prefecture did not immediately comment. A source close to the authorities indicated that it was only a "technical stopover" and that there was no reason to prohibit it.

In a video published Tuesday on the boat's Instagram account, its captain and owner Vladimir Martus was filmed commenting on the stopover.

"Shtandart is going to depart from La Rochelle. It's been beautiful to be here, we've got fuel, we got food, we sent the crew to shower, we are going to sail for a week. Bye-bye La Rochelle! Hope to be here again," he said in English.

The boat was once a favourite of European maritime festivals and used extensively for cruises and training.

It has over the last 25 years taken 10,000 people aboard and participated in 200 maritime festivals.

Its ban from the Brest festival came after the regional Finistere prefecture ruled that EU sanctions against Russia included "historic ships" that had a Russian flag before the February 2022 invasion.

The vessel changed its flag in June and now is registered in the Pacific Cook Islands.

Critics have accused Martus of being connected to President Vladimir Putin's government but he contested the Finistere ruling, saying he had "no link" with Putin's administration.
US still has 'shared' security aims with Niger, US general says



Abidjan, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



The United States still has "shared security objectives" with Niger, whose ruling junta demanded its forces leave the jihadist-hit West African nation, Major General Kenneth Ekman, a senior military officer for US Africa Command, has told AFP.

The US military on Monday withdrew from a final base in Niger -- a drone facility at Agadez -- and handed it over to the authorities in the Sahelian country, where military leaders seized power a year ago.

"We still have some shared security objectives. We have completely honoured their sovereignty. They asked us to leave, we obliged, and we have done that peacefully and respectfully," Ekman said in a telephone interview with AFP on Tuesday.

He said the next step would be to listen to Niger's needs "for a future security relationship with the United States".

"Their condition was that they did not want to talk about the future until the withdrawal was complete," Ekman, who coordinated the pullout from Niger, added.

Just months after French forces were told to quit the country, Niger made the same demand of US troops, saying it was scrapping a military cooperation agreement with Washington in March that it claimed was "illegal".

A timetable was quickly agreed by the two countries, setting September 15 for completing the US withdrawal.

Around 10 US military personnel remain on the ground in the capital Niamey, notably to coordinate the movement of military equipment, which will leave the country by road.

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.

Just over 1,000 US soldiers were deployed to Niger as part of an international effort to suppress jihadist forces that regularly strike across the region.

American troops were divided between a base in Niamey, handed over to Niger authorities in July, and the northern Agadez base.

The latter has since 2019 enabled air surveillance missions to be carried out up to the borders of Libya, Chad, Nigeria and Mali.







- 'Partner willingness' -



Asked about the possibility of staying in Niger despite the presence of Russian instructors and an anticipated closer relationship between the junta and Moscow, Ekman said Russia's presence in Africa was "not new".

"If you're in the Africa security space, Russian equipment is all around you. The world is becoming more multipolar and our African partners have choices," he said.

"However, wherever Africa Corps is, or where Wagner is, it becomes difficult for us to partner because of their methods."

The term "instructors" is generally used to mean former fighters from Russia's Wagner mercenary group, now regrouped under a new body called the Africa Corps.

"We want to have a security relationship with every country in Africa, but that varies by degree depending on our shared interests and partner willingness," Ekman said.

Asked about redeployment to another African country, he did not name specific countries.

"In Chad, after their May 6 election, they appear ready to have a conversation on future partnership for Sahel security," he said.

But the next step is dialogue with partners to understand their needs, he added, without specifying countries.

Last month, Ekman said the United States would continue to work with Ivory Coast security forces.
Turkey plans to build its own anti-missile defence system



Ankara, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



Turkey plans to build its own anti-missile system, which it has dubbed "Steel Dome", the president of the country's defence industry agency said on Wednesday.

"Our national 'Steel Dome' project will allow us to integrate our air defence systems, our sensors and our weapons in a single network," Haluk Gorgun, president of the SSB agency, said in a video.

The project will be led by state-owned defence companies such as Aselsan, Roketsan and MKE, as well as by public research group Tubitak Sage.

According to Turkish public television TRT Haber, Steel Dome is intended to be an umbrella covering Turkish airspace and responding to threats "from the lowest to the highest altitudes" as well as from short to long range.

SSB would not provide more details about the project when contacted by AFP.

Turkey has recently become a major defence exporter, particularly for drones, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan a major supporter of the industry.

bg/gv/imm

SARTORIUS STEDIM BIOTECH
Kurdish fighters kill Turkish soldier in Iraq: ministry



Ankara, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



A Turkish soldier was killed by Kurdish separatists in northern Iraq during a Turkish military operation that's due to be wound down, Ankara's defence ministry said Wednesday.

The soldier was shot by fighters from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has been involved in an on-and-off armed insurgency against Turkey since 1984, the ministry said.

Regarded as a terror organisation by Turkey and most of its Western allies, including the United States and European Union, the PKK has bases in northern Iraq from where it launches attacks into Turkey.

Claiming it needed to secure its border with its southern neighbour, Turkey rolled out Operation Claw-Lock in April 2022.

It involved Ankara attacking the Kurdish group within Iraq itself, where Turkey also maintains several dozen military bases.

On July 13, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the operation's imminent end, judging Kurdish forces to be "completely trapped" in both Iraq and Syria.

Ankara's incursions into Iraq have frequently strained bilateral ties with Baghdad.

Erdogan's declaration came after Iraq's government slammed fresh incursions by the Turkish army into Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region.

But there have been signs of a thaw in relations in recent months, with Erdogan in April making his first visit to Baghdad since 2011.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. The first stage of the seismic survey program at the Azeri-Chirag-Guneshli (ACG) block has been successfully completed using advanced 4D high-precision subsea equipment, reads a letter sent by bp regional president for Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye, Gary Jones to Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov, Trend reports.

Reportedly, this survey marks bp's largest seismic data collection effort globally. The program, set to span five years, aims to deliver comprehensive insights into the ACG fields structure, enhancing future field development strategies.

The first stage of the seismic survey, which began in January 2024, was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.

Azerbaijan's government has expressed appreciation for bp's support, viewing this milestone as crucial for the ACG field's future.

Prime Minister Ali Asadov responded with commendations for bp and its partners, highlighting the survey as a testament to the longstanding successful collaboration between the Azerbaijani government and bp. The continued partnership is anticipated to advance the development of the ACG field further.

BP Exploration (Caspian Sea) Limited is the operator on behalf of the Contractor Parties to the ACG Production Sharing Agreement.

ACG participating interests are: bp (30.37%), SOCAR (25.0%), MOL (9.57%), INPEX (9.31%), Equinor (7.27%), ExxonMobil (6.79%), TPAO (5.73%), ITOCHU (3.65%), ONGCVidesh (2.31%).

bp data shows that during the first half of 2024, ACG continued to safely and reliably deliver stable production. Total ACG production for the first half of 2024 was on average about 336,000 barrels per day (b/d) (about 61 million barrels or 8 million tonnes in total) from the Chirag (22,000 b/d), Central Azeri (96,000 b/d), West Azeri (77,000 b/d), East Azeri (52,000 b/d), Deepwater Gunashli (57,000 b/d), West Chirag (29,000 b/d) and ACE (3,000 b/d) platforms.

Reportedly, at the end of June 2024, 144 oil wells were producing, while 45 were used for water and eight for gas injection.

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We also dealt with a report of a hijacking in the Fingal Street area of west Belfast at around 8.45pm, followed by a report that a car was deliberately driven at a business in the Woodvale Road area, causing damage to the shutters. The suspects made off from the scene, she said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. The Ukrainian state company for the production, transportation, and processing of oil and natural gas, Naftogaz, is open to potential negotiations with the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) regarding gas transit, Trend reports on citing the company.

Alexey Chernyshov, Chairman of the Board of Naftogaz of Ukraine, stated that while the company is not currently negotiating the extension of transit with Russia's Gazprom, it is considering cooperation with other entities, including SOCAR.

"Azerbaijan is a major producer of natural gas, and potential cooperation with SOCAR offers certain advantages. We are open to negotiations with other companies, including SOCAR, though we do not have any final agreements at this time. A mandatory condition for our cooperation is the storage of gas in Ukrainian storage facilities. We would welcome SOCAR storing gas in our country," Chernyshov said.

The contract for the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine was signed for five years and is set to expire on December 31. Ukrainian authorities have previously stated that they do not intend to renew this agreement. However, Kyiv has expressed readiness to continue transit under certain conditions and with the participation of companies from the EU.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
This is a time to de-escalate the tension in our community, and not heighten it. Seeking the peace and prosperity of the city sometimes means setting aside our right to protest, or counter-protest, for the common good. This is surely such a time.
Photo: Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 7. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan intend to more than double their trade turnover, Kazakh Trade Minister Arman Shakkaliev said, Trend reports via the Ministry of Trade and Integration of Kazakhstan.

He made the remark during a meeting with the Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan, Laziz Kudratov, in Astana on August 6.

It's necessary to resolve current trade issues and find new growth points for increasing trade turnover to $5 billion in the near future and to $10 billion in the medium term, the Kazakh minister explained.

Thus, the main topic of discussion during the meeting was the strengthening of trade and economic cooperation before the upcoming meeting of the heads of the two states, as well as the work of the industrial zone 'ICIC - Central Asia', set up on the Kazakh-Uzbek border, and the transition of Uzbekistan to the Rules for Determining the Country of Origin of 2009.

Kudratov said that Uzbekistan has submitted a notification of accession to the 2009 Rules and plans to complete this process by the end of the year. This step is important to achieve the goal of increasing mutual trade turnover between countries.

One of the most important aspects of strengthening relations between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan is cross-border cooperation within the framework of the 'Central Asia' International Center for Industrial Cooperation (ICIC).

During the meeting, the parties shared information about the current state of the industrial zone establishment, saying that the initiators of the project have already been identified as those who will begin its implementation.

The parties agreed to organize a presentation of projects at the industrial zone 'ICIC - Central Asia' in September this year.

To note, Uzbekistan is one of Kazakhstans largest trading partners, ranking seventh in 2023 and accounting for more than 57 percent of Kazakhstans trade turnover with Central Asia.

In 2023, trade turnover between the countries amounted to $4.4 billion.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said that, 82 kilometers of the A7 motorway between Buzau and Focsani will be put in use by the end of the year.

The prime minister paid a working visit on Wednesday, together with the minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Sorin Grindeanu, to check the state of works on the A7 motorway, Buzau-Focsani section, Vadu Pasii area, Buzau county.

The prime minister pointed out that the progress in infrastructure projects is due to the investments approved for this year by the current Government.

In the context, the head executive said that the level of investments is also supported on the basis of the budget collection made by the National Tax Administration Agency (ANAF).

Transport minister Sorin Grindeanu explained that the average completion rate of the works on the four sections of the A7, between Buzau and Focsani, is 82%.
An exhibition dedicated to the Tinerimea Artistica / Artistic Youth society, bringing together works from the collections of the Cotroceni National Museum, will open on August 13 in the Medieval Spaces of the museum institution.

The exhibition project includes the collection of works by members of the Artistic Youth society, which the Cotroceni National Museum owns as a heritage, Stefan Luchian, Nicolae Vermont, Constantin Artachino, Kimon Loghi, Ipolit Strambulescu, Arthur Verona, Frederic Storck, Stefan Popescu and Gheorghe Petrascu, Nicolae Grigorescu, Apcar Baltazar, Samuel Mutzner, Eustatiu Stoenescu, Ion Theodorescu-Sion being just a few of the artists whose works will be mounted, the Cotroceni Museum informs on Wednesday.

Established on December 3, 1901, under royal patronage, the Tinerimea Romana/ Romanian Youth society tried to separate itself from the academizing form of art, promoting the reality, the beauty of the Romanian landscape and the characters that populate it.

"Artists used different manners, techniques and representations: landscapes, flowers, still life, compositions, interior scenes, genre scenes, marines, portraits. Characterized by eclecticism, the artistic movement was necessary in the dynamics of Romanian art, the critics hailing, in their discourse, its variety," the press release reads.

The exhibition Tinerimea Artistica in the MNC collection can be visited between August 14 and September 22, as part of the full tour of the museum or as part of the exhibition tour, from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9.00 and 17.00, only based on a prior appointment, at the e-mail address vizitare@muzeulcotroceni.ro or at the telephone numbers 021.317.31.07 / 0725.518.381.

The AGERPRES National News Agency is media partner of the event.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 7. Kazakhstan's Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens to refrain from visiting Bangladesh, Trend reports via the ministry's statement.

"Given the current situation in Bangladesh, the Foreign Ministry of Kazakhstan recommends Kazakh citizens temporarily refrain from visiting this country until the situation stabilizes," the statement says.

The ministry also requested Kazakh citizens currently in Bangladesh avoid leaving their places of residence unless absolutely necessary, adhere to heightened security measures, exercise vigilance and caution, monitor news updates, follow the authorities' recommendations, and stay in contact with the Foreign Ministry of Kazakhstan and the Kazakh Embassy in India, which also represents Kazakhstan in Bangladesh.

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Nuclear energy is triggering many debates - also among member states of the European Union. Still, the bloc is looking at nuclear technology, partly in a bid to achieve its climate goals. Dutch innovation aims at reusing nuclear waste and a Franco-Italian cooperation wants to speed up the decarbonisation of the emission-heavy steel industry.

'Nuclear technologies can play an important role in clean energy transitions,' said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the first-ever Nuclear Energy Summit in March. The summit had been set up by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Belgium.

The German conservative pointed out that she was aware that 'there are different views' in the EU on nuclear power. She added that 'many countries are giving a fresh look to the potential role that nuclear might play' in the wake of 'the global energy crisis caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine'. It could contribute to climate goals, energy security and stabilising energy prices, according to von der Leyen.

The projections of the International Energy Agency and the European Commission for 2050 show that nuclear power will grow and function as a complement to renewables which 'will be the backbone of EU power production by 2050', she said.

However, this energy source has declined both in the EU and in the world: Across the planet it has gone from 18 percent of the electricity 'mix' in 1988 to nine percent today. In the EU, its use is currently around 22 percent when in the 1990s it still generated a third of Europe's electricity.

Von der Leyen positioned herself in favour of extending the life of the nuclear plants in use 'provided of course their safe operation', as it is 'one of the cheapest ways to secure clean power at scale'.

The European Council included nuclear energy among the strategic technologies for climate neutrality and as a way to accelerate the reduction of emissions it was incorporated in the conclusions document of the last Climate Summit (COP28) - a historic first.

Nuclear energy has been gaining space in the financial treatment it receives in the EU, but it still does not enjoy the same sympathies as renewables.

(Some) EU member states demand more money for nuclear energy

In March, the twelve EU member states grouped in the European Nuclear Alliance demanded more financing for nuclear energy and asked that financial institutions treat it the same as renewable energy.

'All net-zero technologies including nuclear energy and value chain should be leveraged, possibilities and benefits of financing instruments such as support of the EIB [European Investment Bank] and Innovation Fund will be explored to that end,' said the alliance's statement after the first Nuclear Energy Summit.

Bulgaria, Croatia, Finland, France, Hungary, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Czech Republic and Sweden commit to 'developing access to private and public financing, and exploring the possibilities and benefits of European financing instruments'.

They point out as a specific objective 'to support large-scale reactors, SMR technologies and [the] associated European value chain' with atomic energy, which requires enriched fuel and radioactive waste management systems, among others.

The alliance launched in 2023 to support a source for generating energy that EU member states Germany, Luxembourg, Spain or Denmark are not in favour of.

In Germany, the last three nuclear power plants went offline in April 2023 - but the calls for a return to nuclear energy are growing louder.

In December 2023, the Spanish government approved the 7th General Radioactive Waste Plan which estalishes the government's policy on the management of radioactive waste, including spent nuclear fuel, and the dismantling and decommissioning of nuclear facilities. It also established a timetable for the closure of nuclear power plants between 2027 and 2035.

However, there are also opponents to the closure, for example the president of Foro Nuclear, Ignacio Araluce. He said that the plants 'are necessary for the system' and that Spain 'is being left alone' in his idea of closing nuclear power plants.

EU support for the production of mini reactors

The European Commission actively supports the development of small modular reactors, within a technological race in which the EU lags behind China, the United States and Russia.

The European Industrial Alliance on SMR was launched last February by the European Commission together with the recommendation on the intermediate climate target for 2040, underlining the potential of atomic energy among the low-carbon technologies that can help the EU cut emissions. The initiative brings together governments, industry players and stakeholders seeking to accelerate the development of the sector.

Small modular reactors are nuclear reactors that are smaller in both power and physical size compared to traditional gigawatt-scale power plants.

Dutch innovation plans to reuse nuclear wasteDutch start-up Thorizon will receive a ten million Euro grant from the French government. With this, the Amsterdam-based company wants to accelerate the development of a small nuclear reactor that uses nuclear waste from regular power plants as fuel. According to the company, one such plant could provide clean energy to 250,000 households.

The new nuclear reactor should become more sustainable, cheaper and safer than conventional nuclear reactors. 'Our design is unique in using replaceable cartridges in the reactor core. This allows us to work with materials that do not need to withstand reactor conditions for 50 or 100 years,' explained Thorizon's CEO Kiki Lauwers.

Franco-Italian nuclear cooperation to combat steel industry emissions

In July, French electricity group EDF announced that it had signed a nuclear cooperation agreement in Italy with the federation of steel industries to speed up the decarbonisation of the sector in a country that has been nuclear-free for almost 35 years.

The agreement aims at 'promoting cooperation in the use of nuclear energy to boost the competitiveness and decarbonisation of the Italian steel industry', EDF said in a press release. The steel industry is a major emitter of greenhouse gases.

The memorandum of understanding was signed with Italian energy company Edison, Italian power plant manufacturer Ansaldo Energia, nuclear technology developer Ansaldo Nucleare and Federacciai, the Italian steel industry federation.

It 'marks further progress in setting an agenda for developing new nuclear energy in Italy', said Nicola Monti, Edison's CEO, quoted in the press release.

Italy has not produced nuclear energy since the 1990s, following the country's decision in a referendum to withdraw from civil nuclear power in 1987 after the Chernobyl accident.

Nuclear reactor for medical purposes

In late July, the European Commission agreed to a two billion Euro Dutch subsidy for the construction of a new nuclear reactor in the Dutch village of Petten. The reactor - which doesn't generate electricity - is intended, among other things, to develop and store medical radioisotopes for cancer treatment for the medical PALLAS project.

Mandatory under European competition agreements, the Netherlands had requested permission from Brussels for the grant for construction.

According to European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, the application was approved because the PALLAS project contributes to securing essential medicines for the European market. The project can also provide 'a breakthrough innovation' in nuclear technology that benefits European citizens.

This article is published twice a week. The content is based on news by AFP, ANP, ANSA, dpa, EFE, Europa Press agencies participating in the enr.A
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Wednesday that government spending will be reduced as much as necessary so that public investments, especially in infrastructure, can continue.

On a working visit to Prahova county, he was asked by journalists whether the reduction in budget spending envisaged this year will also cover the spending of the municipalities, in addition to that of the central government.

"I haven't yet seen the proposal of the minister [of finance, editor's note]. We will certainly reduce as much as necessary, so as to continue all that we have undertaken as investments, especially in infrastructure. Here is the road infrastructure, we also have in the area of health, you know very well all the things we have started," said Marcel Ciolacu.

The prime minister reiterated that 60% of infrastructure investments are supported by the state budget.

He added that the sustainability of the economy is based on investments.

"Sustainability proves to come from investments, because Romania needs investments," Ciolacu emphasized.

The head of the Executive paid a working visit on Wednesday, together with Transport and Infrastructure minister Sorin Grindeanu, in Prahova County.
The Minister of Health, Alexandru Rafila, requests the resignation of the manager and the medical director of the Emergency Clinical Hospital Sfantul Pantelimon in Bucharest, considering the "defective functioning and public distrust" generated by the events within the last months and the ongoing investigations.

"Access to quality medical services in emergency hospitals is essential for the success of the reforms and investments carried out by the Ministry of Health, and the attitudes that endanger these important objectives for the health system are unacceptable," the Ministry of Health informs in a press release.

On Wednesday, four employees of the Sfantul Pantelimon Hospital were picked up by the police and taken to hearings, in connection with the suspicious deaths in the ICU Department.

In April, the prosecutors received a notification from a nurse employed at the St. Pantelimon Hospital regarding the fact that, between April 4 and 7, 2024, in the Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care (ICU), 17 patients died, as a result of the voluntary reduction, by the medical staff, of the dose of noradrenaline - a neurotransmitter used to increase or maintain blood pressure.

The prosecutors opened a criminal case regarding the crime of murder and administered several evidence, doctors and nurses were interviewed and medical documents related to all patients who died in the ICU Department between April 4 and 7, 2024 were collected.

Later, a nurse was charged with perjury. The investigators believe that she knows what happened at the ICU Department, but refused to give information during the hearings, so the prosecutors decided to indict her.
Romanian athlete Catalin Chirila, who qualified directly for the semifinals of Men's Canoe Single 1000m at the Paris 2024 Olympics after winning the third heat with a new Olympic record, said on Wednesday that time is irrelevant for him, his only goal being to finish first, told Agerpres.

"The time is irrelevant, to be honest, I had even better times than the one I achieved here with slightly less wind. I don't think about time, it's irrelevant. I'm world champion at 4 minutes and 16 seconds, so I just want to get to the finish line first, no matter the time I set. I'm sure my opponents weren't at their best either. I'll analyse them today and tomorrow but I won't abuse this, because I have a new race to prepare. But from experience, I know that they did not row at maximum capacity," said Chirila.

The Semifinals and Final of Men's Canoe Single 1000m are scheduled two hours apart, which is something new for Chirila, who voices his hope that he will be more resilient than his opponents.

"It will be different for me, I've never rowed two races two hours apart. The last one was in Tokyo in the Canoes Double. I think it's the same for all my opponents. I like to think that I have more stamina than the others and I pray to God to keep me as fresh before the race, because that's the most important thing. Tactics are sacred for any athlete, you need that discipline, which I didn't have in this race," the athlete said, adding that he had to change tactics because his opponent rowed harder in the first half of the race.

Romanian athlete Catalin Chirila qualified directly for the Semifinals of the Men's Canoe Single 1000m on Wednesday at the Paris 2024 Olympics after winning the third heat with a new Olympic record

Chirila, the 2022 world champion and 2023 world vice-champion, clocked 3 min 44 sec 75/100.

The Semifinals (12:30) and Final - B (14:40) and A (14:50) - are scheduled on August 9.
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu on Wednesday said that he discussed with the health minister the situation at the Sf. Pantelimon Hospital generated by four employees of the hospital having been picked up by the police for an investigation into suspicious deaths at the Intensive Care Unit, stressing that "those who do something like that must go to jail."

He was informed by journalists that doctors of the Sf. Pantelimon Hospital were being interviewed in connection with evidence that they reduced the doses of norepinephrine causing patients to die.

"The health minister will come out. We've had several discussions today. The important thing is that we discover these things. First of all, those who do that should go to jail," said Ciolacu.

On Wednesday, Health Minister Alexandru Rafila requested the resignation of the manager and the medical director of the Sfantul Pantelimon Emergency Clinical Hospital, given defective operation and public mistrust generated by the events of the last months and the ongoing investigations.

In April, prosecutors received a notification from a nurse from the hospital that between April 4 and 7, 2024, in the Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 17 patients died as a result of the healthcare staff voluntarily reducing the dose of norepinephrine - a neurotransmitter used to increase or stabilise blood pressure.
A space dedicated to children and families who cross the border into Romania to seek refuge from the war in Ukraine has been inaugurated at the Siret Border Crossing Point (BCP) in Suceava County through a partnership between the Sighetu Marmatiei Border Police Local Inspectorate (TIBP) , the United Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), according to UNICEF.

Designed to provide a safe and welcoming place for children and families forced to leave their homes due to the conflict, the space is equipped with adequate facilities and resources needed to provide basic assistance, meeting the immediate needs of mothers with children.

The initiative is part of a series of joint efforts and collaboration between authorities and United Nations agencies to respond effectively to the needs of refugees. The authorities and partners involved will continue to monitor and improve the facilities and services provided, ensuring that all those going through this difficult period receive the necessary support.
The Save Romania Union (USR) chairwoman, Elena Lasconi, announced that she had a meeting, on Wednesday, with the United States ambassador in Bucharest, Kathleen Kavalec, noting that they addressed the strategic partnership, as well as topics regarding the future of Romania, the role of women in society, the rights of minorities.

Lasconi wrote on Facebook that the discussion also covered the main components of the Strategic Partnership between the two countries, with an emphasis on the economy, investments, energy, defense, foreign policy, rule of law and press freedom.

The future of Romania is linked to the special relationship with the American nation, Elena Lasconi added.

"Romanians are among the most pro-American Europeans because we value freedom, a right we won with blood 35 years ago. The relationship between the two nations is extremely strong. The future of Romania, as we all imagine, is related to the special relationship we have with the American nation, a relationship that expands and becomes more complex every day," Lasconi also wrote.
Two physicians, anesthesia and intensive care specialists at the Emergency Clinical Hospital Sfantul Pantelimon in Bucharest, were detained Wednesday by prosecutors for aggravated murder in the case of the suspicious deaths in the ICU.

They are two physicians from the Pantelimon Hospital, accused of causing the death of a patient in serious condition in intensive care by abruptly reducing the dose of noradrenaline.

In the same case, C.M., a nurse in the Anesthesia and Intensive Care Department of the Emergency Clinical Hospital Sfantul Pantelimon in Bucharest, was indicted for the crime of perjury.

The defendants M.M.A. and P.M., as well as the suspect C.M. were remanded in custody for a period of 24 hours.

The case is to be submitted to the judge of rights and freedoms of the Bucharest Court, with a proposal for preventive arrest for a period of 30 days.

The investigation in this case was launched after, in April, prosecutors received a notification from a nurse employed at the St. Pantelimon Hospital regarding the fact that, between April 4 and 7, 2024, in the Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care (ICU), 17 patients died, as a result of the voluntary reduction, by the medical staff, of the dose of noradrenaline - a neurotransmitter used to increase or maintain blood pressure.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, August 7. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed an order on approval of the National Development Plan of Kazakhstan until 2029, Trend reports, referring to the legal information system of normative legal acts of the country.

The National Development Plan of Kazakhstan until 2029 is aiming to hit the ground running with a whopping 17 areas of development. These areas are divided into four blocks, all with a shared vision of achieving planned results and using effective implementation mechanisms.

Keeping an eye on the implementation of this order will be in the hands of the president's administration.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Missouris education department hopes to resolve a backlog of payments to day cares 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 day cares 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 day care 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 day care 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 monthslong 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 Maryland Heights.

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.

Board member Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge raised concern at the meeting for struggling day care 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.

Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Missouri Independent maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jason Hancock for questions: info@missouriindependent.com. Follow Missouri Independent on Facebook and X.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 7. Development of the transport sector is among the main priorities of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Kyrgyzstan, a source at JICA told Trend.

"Infrastructure development for industry diversification is one of the pillar directions in JICAs cooperation with Kyrgyzstan, including the development of the transport sector. The public roads in the country ensure 98 percent passenger and 96 percent freight traffic. Since the early 1990s, the government of Kyrgyzstan has taken active measures to broaden and maintain the international trunk road network of the country to ensure export activities. JICA has been contributing to the development of international trunk roads in several directions," the source said.

The agency's efforts in Kyrgyzstan focus on road and bridge reconstruction, maintenance, and road disaster prevention.

"JICA has supported the supply of road equipment (asphalt plants, stone crushing facilities, dump trucks, road rollers, motor grades, asphalt finishers) to all the regions of Kyrgyzstan," the source added.

JICA is an independent agency founded in 1974 that supports the economic and social development of developing countries on behalf of the Japanese government. In Kyrgyzstan, it focuses on supporting continuous, balanced economic growth to drive the institutionalization of democracy.

Under this policy, JICA aims to diversify industry and create jobs by promoting agricultural exports, industry, and SMEs, as well as developing infrastructure for industry diversification. Additionally, JICA seeks to improve government administration and social services.
ANKARA, Turkey  Turkey on Wednesday filed a request with a U.N. court to join South Africas lawsuit accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, the foreign minister said.

Turkeys ambassador to the Netherlands, accompanied by a group of Turkish legislators, submitted a declaration of intervention to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

With the development, Turkey, one of the fiercest critics of Israels actions in Gaza, becomes the latest nation seeking to participate in the case. Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua and Libya have also asked to join the case, as have Palestinian officials. The courts decision on their requests is still pending.

We have just submitted our application to the International Court of Justice to intervene in the genocide case filed against Israel, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan wrote on the social media platform X. Emboldened by the impunity for its crimes, Israel is killing more and more innocent Palestinians every day.

The international community must do its part to stop the genocide; it must put the necessary pressure on Israel and its supporters," he said. "Turkey will make every effort to do so.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused Israel of genocide, called for it to be punished in international courts and criticized Western nations for backing Israel. In May, Turkey suspended trade with Israel, citing its assault on Gaza.

In contrast to Western nations that have designated Hamas a terrorist organization, Erdogan has commended the group, calling it a liberation movement.

South Africa brought a case to the International Court of Justice late last year, accusing Israel of violating the genocide convention through its military operations in Gaza.

Israel has strongly rejected accusations of genocide and has argued that the war in Gaza is a legitimate defensive action against Hamas militants for their Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people and in which 250 hostages were taken.

If admitted to the case, the countries who joined would be able to make written submissions and speak at public hearings.

Preliminary hearings have already been held in the genocide case against Israel, but the court is expected to take years to reach a final decision.

No country in the world is above international law, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Oncu Keceli said on X earlier. The case at the International Court of Justice is extremely important in terms of ensuring that the crimes committed by Israel do not go unpunished.

Keceli also called for the immediate implementations of precautionary measures ordered by the court, including a halt to military offensive and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Since Erdogan took power in 2003, former allies Turkey and Israel have experienced a volatile relationship, marked by periods of severe friction and reconciliation. The war in Gaza has disrupted the most recent attempts at normalizing ties.

Updated at 10:12 a.m.
Among the big winners in Missouris primaries on Tuesday was moderation.

In a Democratic congressional race viewed nationally as a referendum on the far-left klatch of House members known as the Squad, U.S. Rep. Cori Bush of St. Louis was soundly defeated by St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, who has vowed a more pragmatic approach to the job.

In the Republican primary for governor, the two most extreme right-wing ideologues were bested by Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, who is about the closest thing to a moderate that todays Missouri GOP has to offer.

And Democratic voters in the U.S. Senate primary wisely nominated former U.S. Marine Lucas Kunce  who they had less wisely rejected two years ago in favor of a more traditional Democrat  to challenge Republican Sen. Josh Hawley in November.

If extremism of the MAGA and Squad varieties can be likened to a fever that has wracked Missouris body politic the last few years, Tuesdays primaries might be a promising sign the fever is breaking on both the left and right.

The Bush-Bell contest is being viewed by national media as part of a trend toward such a resetting. As The New York Times put it late Tuesday, [A]ll eyes were on Ms. Bush to see if she would be the next member of the ultraliberal squad to see defeat. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., also lost his primary re-nomination bid in June.

Bush, like Bowman and other hard-left House progressives, has staked out positions on the Gaza conflict that at times have been not merely critical of Israel but seemingly supportive of Hamas terrorists  an accurate description of the organization that Bush nonetheless declined to acknowledge during a recent Times interview.

The pro-Israel lobby spent millions to help defeat Bush, but she also suffered self-inflicted setbacks, like her ill-advised vote against the Biden administrations infrastructure package for what amounted to an ideological protest.

St. Louis needs a responsible representative in Congress, not a perpetual protester. Though Bell came up through the same progressive Ferguson movement that Bush did, he has shown the maturity and moderation to make a good congressman.

Bell is all but assured election in November in the heavily Democratic 1st Congressional District. Kunce, conversely, would pull a stunning upset if he were to unseat Hawley in the Senate race, simply by virtue of his party. No statewide office in Missouri is currently held by a Democrat and theres little indication that will change soon.

But in nominating Kunce, the states Democrats have taken an important step toward showing they understand they cant keep elevating California-style liberals and expecting to woo the conservative rural electorate that effectively runs the table.

Kunce holds what we consider the right positions on reproductive rights, responsible gun policies and health care. But his modest personal story, military background and centrist bearing could allow him to connect to average Missourians. We look forward to seeing him give Hawley a run for his money.

The new Democratic nominee for governor, state House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, could similarly connect to independent voters with her working-class background and impressive legislative leadership.

The Editorial Boards endorsement of businessman Mike Hamra wasnt a criticism of Quade; it was the toughest choice we faced and amounted to a Hail Mary-suggestion to give a starkly different kind of Democrat a try. But Quade is whip-smart, accomplished and has an engaging persona that should appeal to all kinds of voters.

She also has a Republican opponent who, like her, seems unlikely to drag the race into the mud.

We dont agree much with Republican gubernatorial nominee Kehoe on policy, but its difficult to imagine him engaging in the ham-handed demagoguery and crass dishonesty that primary opponent Jay Ashcroft did on issues like library content and abortion rights. And its even harder to imagine the mild-mannered Kehoe wielding a flamethrower in his campaign ads like state Sen. Bill Eigel did. Kudos to Republican voters for picking the best of the options they had.

If only theyd had better choices in the attorney generals race. Alas, incumbent Andrew Bailey, who has politicized and misused his office (and the court system) to an unprecedented extent, easily beat challenger Will Scharf, who showed every indication of being just as extreme.

Republican voters this fall should review our ongoing Bailey Tally of his worst offenses and consider that, if theres any candidate who merits crossing party lines for the simple reason that he brazenly abuses his power instead of doing his job, its Bailey.

On to November.
August 7, 2024: Imagine living in a land that you consider your home, but where you have no rights, no security, and no future. Imagine being forced to leave your home, or to live under a foreign occupation that controls your every move. Imagine being denied your history, your culture, and your identity. This is the reality for millions of Palestinians, who have been struggling for decades to achieve recognition and sovereignty in their historic homeland. They have tried to build a state of their own but have faced many obstacles and setbacks, both from outside forces, such as Israel and its allies plus unwelcoming Arab neighbors, and from within, such as their own leaders, factions and culture. As a result, the Palestinian national institutions that were supposed to lay the foundations for a viable and democratic state never formed, while support, goals and even ideas for those have vanished. This also eroded the sense of Palestinian identity and solidarity among the people, who have become increasingly disillusioned and divided by their political and social realities.

The idea of Palestine as a political entity is not a new one. It dates back to the aftermath of the 1948 Arab Israeli war, which resulted in the creation of the state of Israel and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Arabs who came to be known as Palestinians. In 1948, the first Palestinian National Congress was held in Gaza, where the Palestinian National Charter was adopted and the All-Palestine Government was declared. But this government had little authority or influence, as Gaza was under Egyptian control, the West Bank was annexed by Jordan and Palestinians in Lebanon were confined to camps there. The Palestinian cause was largely ignored by the Arab states, who sought to resolve the conflict with Israel through diplomacy or war.

The Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) was founded in 1964 as an umbrella group for various factions that aimed to liberate Palestine through armed struggle. The PLO gained prominence and support after the 1967 Six-Day War, which resulted in Israel's occupation of the West Bank, Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights. Under the leadership of Yasser Arafat, the PLO launched guerrilla attacks against Israel from its bases in Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, and also engaged in diplomatic efforts to gain international recognition and support. In 1974, the PLO was designated by the Arab League as the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, and Arafat addressed the United Nations General Assembly, calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state on the basis of the 1949 armistice lines. Eventually the Palestinians in Lebanon formed their own militias and were taken over by the PLO, which forced a war with Israel and lost. Lebanese Christian militias and the Israelis then drove the Palestinians from Lebanon.

In 1987, the first intifada uprising broke out in the occupied territories, as Palestinians protested against Israeli repression and demanded an end to the occupation. The intifada was largely a popular and spontaneous movement, involving mass demonstrations, civil disobedience, and stone-throwing, as well as some armed attacks by militant groups. The intifada challenged the status quo and put pressure on both Israel and the PLO to find a political solution to the conflict. In 1988, the PLO declared the second Palestinian declaration of independence, which was recognized by many countries and implied the acceptance of the two-state solution based on the 1967 borders. The declaration also renounced terrorism and recognized the right of all states in the region to exist in peace and security.

In 1991, the Madrid Conference was convened by the United States and the Soviet Union, with the participation of Israel, the Arab states, and a joint Jordanian-Palestinian delegation. The conference aimed to launch a comprehensive peace process based on the principle of land for peace, and to address the issues of security, borders, refugees, and Jerusalem. The conference was followed by bilateral and multilateral negotiations, which led to the signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993. The Oslo Accords were a set of interim agreements between Israel and the PLO, which established the Palestinian Authority (PA) as a self-governing body in parts of the West Bank and Gaza and outlined a framework for the final status negotiations on the core issues of the conflict. The Oslo Accords were hailed as a historic breakthrough and a milestone for the two-state solution, and Arafat and Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1994. Rabin was promptly murdered by Israeli extremists.

However, the Oslo Accords also had many flaws and limitations which became apparent in the following years. The agreements were vague and ambiguous on the key issues of the final status, such as the borders, the settlements, the refugees, and the status of Jerusalem. The agreements also left Israel in control of most of the land, water, and resources in the occupied territories, and allowed it to continue its settlement expansion and military operations. The agreements also failed to address the basic rights and alleged democratic aspirations of the Palestinian people, and instead created a complex and fragmented system of governance, security, and administration dependent on Israel and international donors. The PA, which was supposed to be a transitional and preparatory institution for statehood, became an overt end in itself and was plagued by corruption, nepotism, authoritarianism, and inefficiency, all of which were and are traditional for Arab governments. The PA also faced a legitimacy crisis, as it was seen by many Palestinians as a collaborator with the occupation and a violator of their rights and interests.

The failure of the peace process and the deterioration of the Palestinian situation also had a negative impact on Palestinian identity and solidarity. The Palestinian identity, which was forged by the common experience of displacement, resistance, and struggle, was based on the shared vision of a Palestinian state and the right of return for the refugees. This vision was gradually eroded by the realities of the occupation, the fragmentation of the territories, the isolation of the diaspora, the lack of a clear and coherent political strategy, and despair created by an unaccountable and rapacious PLO. The Palestinian identity was also challenged by the emergence of competing and conflicting identities, such as the religious, the tribal, the regional, and the personal. These identities were exploited and manipulated by various actors, both internal and external, to serve their own agendas and interests.

The most visible and violent manifestation of the Palestinian identity crisis was the split between Fatah and Hamas, the two main political factions in the Palestinian arena. Fatah, which dominated the PLO and the PA, was the main negotiator and signatory of the Oslo Accords, and advocated for a pragmatic and moderate approach to the conflict. Hamas, which emerged from the Muslim Brotherhood movement, rejected the Oslo Accords and the recognition of Israel, and advocated for an armed and Islamic resistance to the occupation. The rivalry between Fatah and Hamas escalated after the 2006 legislative elections, which resulted in a surprise victory for Hamas. The elections were followed by a series of clashes and confrontations between the two factions, which culminated in the 2007 Hamas takeover of Gaza and establishment of two separate and hostile governments in the West Bank and Gaza. The split between Fatah and Hamas not only deepened the political and geographic division of the Palestinian people, but also undermined their national and democratic institutions, and weakened their bargaining power and international standing.

The Palestinian national project, which aimed to achieve statehood and self-determination for the Palestinian people, has collapsed in the past decades. This decline of Palestinian statehood and identity has also posed serious challenges and problems for the Israelis, who have to deal with the consequences of the occupation, violence, and instability in the region.

All this came to a head in October 2023 when a massive Hamas offensive came out of Gaza and sought to defeat Israeli forces and establish a new Palestinian state. This failed as the Israelis counterattacked and as of mid-2024 the fighting continues in Gaza where Israeli forces seek to capture or kill the remaining Hamas members. Two million Palestinian civilians are caught in the middle of this and thousands of those civilians have already been killed. Hamas considers these dead civilians as involuntary martyrs to the cause and continues to show a callous disregard for the many Palestinian civilians killed as Hamas pursues its own goals.
Members of the 8th Security Forces Squadron salute at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, in May 2022. (Jesenia Landaverde/U.S. Air Force)

An airman was discovered dead at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea on Monday, less than two weeks after the death of a fellow service member assigned to the same unit.

Senior Airman Saniyya Smalls, 25, of the 8th Security Forces Squadron, was found at an unspecified location on Kunsan, roughly 115 miles south of Seoul, the 8th Fighter Wing said in a news release Tuesday.

Smalls death is a tragic loss and has deeply impacted our community, wing commander Col. Peter Kasarskis said in the release.

Every member of the 8th Fighter Wing is a valued member of the Wolf Pack, Kasarskis said, referring to the wings nickname.

Foul play is not suspected in Smalls death, according to the release. The wing did not immediately respond to email and phone requests for more information Wednesday.

The death comes 10 days after Airman Kye Vang, 23, also of the 8th Security Forces Squadron, was found dead in his home on Kunsan.

The wing has not disclosed the circumstances of Vangs death; however, foul play was not suspected, the wing said in a July 28 news release.

Security force squadrons are the law enforcement arm of the Air Force and are responsible for providing base security.

Roughly 2,800 airmen and 40 F-16 Fighting Falcons are assigned to the 8th Fighter Wing, which participates in numerous air drills with the South Korean air force throughout the year.
Army Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Carlson of the 173rd Airborne Brigade provides remarks March 9, 2023, during assumption of responsibility ceremony at Caserma Del Din in Vicenza, Italy. (Paolo Bovo/U.S. Army)

WASHINGTON  The senior enlisted leader for the Armys 173rd Airborne Brigade was relieved of his duties last month due to alcohol-related incidents, a service official confirmed Wednesday.

Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Carlson was fired July 16 due to a loss of trust and confidence in his leadership, Army spokesman Neil Ruggiero wrote in an email. Carlson was relieved after a completed investigation pertaining to alcohol-related incidents, he said.

Ruggiero did not disclose further details.

Carlson has served with the 173rd Airborne Brigade since March 2023. The brigade is based in Vicenza, Italy. He previously served with the brigades 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment and the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, according to a Facebook post from the brigade.

Under federal privacy law, military officials are not required to disclose the reasons for removing or reassigning personnel. Military officials often cite a loss of confidence when commanders are removed from their posts without providing any specifics that led to the decision.

Carlsons firing comes after another ouster in April among Army leaders in Europe. Lt. Col. Eric Ackles, commander of 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, was fired just six months after the air defense unit reactivated in Ansbach, Germany, amid growing concerns of Russian aggression on the Continent.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 7. Kyrgyzstan plans to launch a gold bullion production plant in the city of Kara-Balta, Chuy region, in August, Narynbek Satybaldiev, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Kyrgyzaltyn Enterprise, said at a press conference, Trend reports.

Satybaldiev also revealed that the first tons of ore are expected to be extracted from the Mironovskoye copper-bismuth and gold deposits. These projects are part of the governments plan to mark the 100th anniversary of the Kara-Kirghiz autonomous region and to set up 100 new industrial facilities across the country.

Satybaldiyev highlighted the significant potential for mining and processing gold, antimony, copper, rare earth elements, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, magnesium, and other ores within Kyrgyzstan.

The gold bullion plant in Kara-Balta, being constructed on a 1,500-square-meter site, will produce bullion domestically, whereas previously, these were manufactured abroad. The facility will also produce coins, commemorative medals, and orders using advanced technologies from Italy and Germany.

Kyrgyzaltyn is the largest domestic enterprise in Kyrgyzstan, specializing in the development of gold deposits. It was founded on October 15, 1992, with the aim of uniting enterprises in the mining industry of the country.
An American service member aims an M4 carbine during Resolute Dragon training in Otia prefecture, Japan, Aug. 1, 2024. (Adam Trump/U.S. Marine Corps)

CAMP COURTNEY, Okinawa  U.S. and Japanese military officials touted the Marine Corps newest littoral unit, new radar technology and the countries alliance during a ceremony marking the close of joint drills Wednesday.

Lt. Gen. Roger Turner, commander of the III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Lt. Gen. Masayoshi Arai, head of Japans Western Army, addressed about 100 U.S. Marines, U.S. soldiers and Japanese troops in front of III MEF headquarters. The event closed out this years Resolute Dragon, which spanned three prefectures in southern Japan, including Okinawa.

The fourth iteration of the annual exercise featured the 12th Marine Littoral Regiments operational debut. The unit launched in November to specialize in stand-in force operations  a key tenet of the island-fighting doctrine featured in the Marines Force Design plan.

This also marked a major advancement in our ability to deter and defend against any threat in key maritime areas, while enhancing our capability to provide humanitarian aid to remote islands as a unified and bilateral force, Turner said at the ceremony.

A stand-in force is a small, mobile unit inserted within range of enemy fire, including missiles, to seize and hold key islands and deny enemy vessels access to surrounding seas. The Marines created the 3rd Littoral Regiment, its first, in March 2022, and plans a third for Guam. A littoral regiment consists of about 2,000 Marines.

Lt. Gen. Roger Turner, III Marine Expeditionary Force commander, speaks alongside Lt. Gen. Masayoshi Arai, the head of Japan's Western Army, during the closing ceremony for the Resolute Dragon exercise at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (Brian McElhiney/Stars and Stripes) A Japanese soldier learns how to operate an M240B machine gun attached to a tactical vehicle during Resolute Dragon training in Dodo, Okinawa, Aug. 1, 2024. (Rachel Mason/U.S. Marine Corps)

This years Resolute Dragon featured approximately 3,000 Marines and 5,700 Japanese troops, III MEF spokesman 1st Lt. Owen Hitchcock said at the ceremony. The countries forces cooperated on anti-ship operations during the exercise, III MEFs lead exercise planner, Lt. Col. Tina Terry, said in a statement emailed to Stars and Stripes on Tuesday.

On July 29, a Japanese Kawasaki C-2 transport plane delivered the 12th Littoral Regiments AN/TPS-80 air-defense radar system for the first time to Yonaguni, Japans westernmost island, 67 miles east of Taiwan.

The regiment used the radar alongside Japanese troops to enhance situational awareness by supporting comprehensive detection and tracking across air, land, and maritime domains, Lt. Col. Joseph Mozzi, the regiments fire support coordinator, said in a 3rd Marine Division news release Sunday.

The 12th MLRs advanced sensing and targeting capabilities further enable it to serve as a force multiplier for the [U.S.-Japan] Alliance, improving coordination and strategic planning in the region, Terry said.

The U.S. and Japan are increasing their cooperation as China increases its military strength and asserts its claims on maritime territory in the South and East China seas. Yonaguni, part of Okinawa prefecture, is the closest inhabited Japanese territory to Taiwan.

Marine Corps exercises its Force Design initiative to counter China more effectively. This includes capabilities, such as the new radar system and littoral regiments, to help it better defend the small islands east of Taiwan.

Marine MV-22B Ospreys and Japanese V-22 Ospreys also flew together to enhance air mobility and rapid deployment, Terry said.

The U.S. military grounded its fleet of the tiltrotor aircraft between Dec. 6 and March 8 after an Osprey from Yokota Air Base crashed off Japans southern coast, killing all eight airmen aboard. Japans military also grounded its fleet and resumed flights in the spring.

The Air Force scheduled a pair of CV-22 Ospreys to take part in Resolute Dragon but canceled their involvement to focus on training requirements a few weeks before the exercise began.
The Cocos Islands, Australian territory in the Indian Ocean, are near the Strait of Malacca, a chokepoint for Chinese oil imports. (Australian navy)

An Australian island in the Indian Ocean is one of several sites tagged for billions of dollars of U.S.-funded construction and refurbishments aimed at deterring China.

Naval Facilities Engineering Command is seeking proposals for at least three projects worth up to $15 billion combined in Australias Cocos Islands, the Philippines, Timor Leste and Papua New Guinea, according to the June 26 bid solicitation.

The projects, which include new facilities, repairs, renovations and infrastructure, would be funded under the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, according to the notice.

The initiative, established by Congress in fiscal 2021, aims to maintain Americas military advantage over China by modernizing and strengthening the U.S. presence in the Indo-Pacific.

The Cocos Islands, population 600, are 1,864 miles west of Perth.

The projects outlined in the Navys solicitation may or may not support the Darwin Marines Rotational Force, a spokesman for NAVFAC Pacific, the U.S. Navys Pacific Fleet engineering arm, told Reuters news agency by email for a report Monday.

NAVFAC Pacific did not immediately respond Wednesday to an emailed request from Stars and Stripes for further information.

Two thousand Marines arrived in the northern Australian port city in March for an annual, six-month-long training rotation.

Australia is already upgrading facilities in the Cocos, which comprise two coral atolls made up of 27 smaller islands, according to information on the Australian Defence Forces website.

Due to insufficient length and strength of the existing airfield pavement, large Defence aircraft are unable to operate out of CKI, the Cocos Keeling Islands Airfield, the website states.

An Australian project there would improve pavement, enhance lighting and drainage, and build a new wharf by mid-2027, according to the website.

The Cocos construction and other U.S.-funded base upgrades in Australia were on the agenda when Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken met their Australian counterparts, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Richard Marles and Minister of Foreign Affairs Penny Wong, on Tuesday in Annapolis, Md.

Improvements to the island facilities will allow P-8 Poseidon reconnaissance planes, E-7 Wedgetail early warning aircraft and aerial refuelers to operate there, according to former Australian assistant defense secretary Ross Babbage.

In the past there has been American interest in this and also in UAV use, he told Stars and Stripes by email Wednesday.

Drone operations are a more realistic possibility with the Australian air forces MQ-28 Ghost Bat multirole aircraft expected to begin initial operations within two years, Babbage said.

The Cocos are closer to the Strait of Malacca, a chokepoint for Chinese oil imports, than Diego Garcia, a key U.S. logistics hub in the Indian Ocean and a launch point for bombing missions during the Afghan war.

The Cocos atoll itself offers good weather protection, but minimal support facilities for ships in the event of severe conditions, Babbage wrote.

The facilities and the available workforce on Cocos are minimal and because of terrain constraints and the atolls remoteness it would be difficult and very expensive to build and support large-scale operations of most types from that location, he said.
Contractors use a ground-penetrating radar to identify and map utility pipes and wires at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex in Hawaii, Feb. 21, 2023. (Jimmie Pike/U.S. Air Force)

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii  The Department of the Air Force wants to cleanse fuel-soaked ground on Mauis tallest peak, considered sacred in Native Hawaiian culture, by venting soil still in place and airing out contaminated soil previously excavated.

About 700 gallons of diesel fuel spilled in late January 2023 at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex atop the 10,000-foot summit of Haleakala, a dormant volcano.

The Maui-based 15th Space Surveillance Squadron, which is part of Space Delta 2, operates the complex. The Air and Space Force already face resistance to a plan to expand the facility by building new telescopes to track objects in space.

The complex is primarily used to perform 24/7 deep space surveillance and satellite tracking while also supporting research and development projects and collaborating with outside organizations for space-monitoring efforts, the Air Force said in a draft response action memorandum in July outlining its preferred method to clean up the site.

The 15th Space Surveillance Squadron is hosting an evening open house Aug. 15 at King Kekaulike High School, 121 Kula Highway, Makawao, to provide information about the proposed soil remediation.

The spill occurred when a lightning strike caused a malfunction in the fuel tank used for a generator on the site. The fuel spread into an area of about 750 square feet.

In March 2023, workers excavated soil 2 to 5 feet deep from the site. They were unable to dig deeper because of underground utilities, according to the Air Force memo.

About 30 cubic yards of soil was loaded into 41 supersacks that are stored at the site for eventual cleansing.

The excavated area was covered with heavy polymer sheeting, which was then covered with uncontaminated soil.

The process of cleaning the soil is complicated by the fact that Hawaiians regard Haleakalas summit as sacred, and so no soil or stones should be removed from the site.

Ancient Native Hawaiians regarded the peak to be the navel, or center, of Maui, with cultural resources in the area dating back more than 1,000 years.

There are numerous gods and goddesses said to reside on the summit, in the crater, and all around the mountain, the memorandum states.

Air and Space Force officials faced public backlash against the militarys substantial presence in the state after a jet fuel spill from a Navy underground fuel storage facility in late 2021 contaminated groundwater used by thousands near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

In May, the Maui County Council unanimously approved a resolution opposing a plan by the Air Force and Space Force to build new telescopes on the mountain. The resolution cited the fuel spill on Haleakala and that the services have yet to clean it up, The Associated Press reported on June 6.

The Maui cleanup plan involves using bioventing and aeration to remove or reduce toxicity in the soil.

Active bioventing involves using an electric blower that mechanically extracts air from venting wells resulting in increasing air circulation to subsurface soils, the memorandum states.

This will increase microbial metabolic rates due to the additional oxygen being circulated through the soil.

Ten bioventing wells would be placed at depths up to 50 feet.

The extracted air would be treated to remove fuel vapors before being released into the atmosphere.

During the aeration process, the saturated soil in the supersacks would be placed above ground on polymer sheeting and surrounded by a berm for treatment to decrease the remaining petroleum and constituent concentrations, the memorandum states.

Questions and comments can be submitted until Sept. 15 to Jennifer Wehrmann, Remedial Project Manager, AFCEC/CZOP, 10471 20th Street, Suite 343, JBER, AK 99506-2201 or via email to pacaf.czop.remotesites@us.af.mil.
Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki speaks to reporters at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan in Tokyo, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes)

TOKYO  Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki announced Wednesday hes traveling soon to the United States to lobby Cabinet officials, Congress and the American public to reduce the U.S. military footprint in his prefecture and curb troop misconduct.

The governor, speaking Wednesday at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Japan in Tokyo, appealed publicly for a reduction in the U.S. military presence in Okinawa prefecture.

The existence of these vast U.S. military facilities and related areas is a major impediment to the promotion of local industrial development and also improving of the living environment in Okinawa, he said.

Tamaki addressed alleged sexual assaults on Okinawa before about 30 reporters at the club and another 60 watching via livestream.

There is no end to the various damages which are caused by the presence of the bases, he said. The people of Okinawa continue to bear a heavy burden in relation to these bases.

Tamaki is planning to visit the U.S. next month to appeal directly to the U.S. government, including the Departments of Defense and State, members of Congress and the U.S. public.

I do believe that the U.S. and Japan has contributed to the maintenance of peace and stability in Japan and East Asia, he said.

But, he added, U.S. military forces in Japan are excessively concentrated in Okinawa prefecture, and we feel the necessity of the further reversion and reduction of the U.S. military bases on Okinawa.

Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki speaks to reporters at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan in Tokyo, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes)

Okinawa hosts the bulk of U.S. military personnel in Japan, about 30,000 active-duty service members, most of them Marines, plus another 50,000 civilian employees and family members.

Between 1972, when Okinawa reverted from U.S. to Japanese control, and 2023, authorities on Okinawa have arrested 6,235 U.S. military or affiliated personnel for alleged criminal offenses, Tamaki said.

Of these, 586 were cases of violent offences such as murder or forcible sexual intercourse or rape, and 80 cases were sexual related offenses such as indecent assault, he said.

Two recent cases of sexual assault and attempted sexual assault have brought the problem again to public attention.

Airman Brennon R.E. Washington pleaded not guilty July 12 in Naha District Court to charges of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a minor in December. Marine Lance Cpl. Jamel Clayton was charged in May with attempting to sexually assault a woman in Yomitan village.

In regard to these kinds of incidents and process, there are two main problems as we see, Tamaki said.

One problem is the alleged crimes; the other is that law enforcement and the Japanese government did not apprise the prefecture until the defendants were scheduled for court appearances, in Washingtons case almost three months after his indictment, Tamaki said.

Following a complaint from the prefecture, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi announced July 5 that Japans investigative authorities have begun sharing information about cases with Okinawa as much as possible.

For Okinawa prefecture, we consider it necessary to share information not just to the extent possible, but rather to share this information promptly after the incident, Tamaki said.

U.S. Forces Japan commander Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp on July 22 announced a new forum of cooperation with the Japanese and Okinawan governments and community members to address alleged misconduct.

But Tamaki expressed doubt about the proposal. A similar effort, the Cooperative Working Team for the prevention of incidents and accidents by U.S. military and civilian personnel, was established in 2000, he said.

However, meetings of this CWT have not been held since the year 2017, he said. Therefore, at every opportunity we as Okinawa prefecture have been requesting both the Japanese and U.S. governments to hold the CWT as soon as possible.

Tamaki called for specific details on this new forum, including its members and structure, and coordination with outside organizations at the earliest possible date.

Military force alone is not sufficient to ensure peace and stability in the region and to achieve sustainable development on Okinawa, according to the governor.

I believe it is more necessary than ever before to ease tensions and build confidence through peaceful diplomacy and dialogue, he said.
Master Sgt. Miguel Garza was sentenced at a court-martial Aug. 7, 2024, in Kaiserslautern, Germany, to prison time and expulsion from the military. During one incident that prompted accusations against him, he repeatedly called German police officers Nazis. (Joshua Magbanua/U.S. Air Force)

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany  An Army master sergeant who repeatedly called German police officers Nazis after being arrested for drunken driving was sentenced Wednesday at a court-martial to 18 months in jail for several crimes.

Master Sgt. Miguel Garza pleaded guilty to drunk and disorderly conduct, driving while intoxicated and two counts of assault with battery during proceedings at Kleber Kaserne.

The charges stemmed from two separate incidents in 2022.

Garza, a food inspector who was assigned to Public Health Command Europe, had faced five counts of sexual assault, which were thrown out as part of a last-minute plea deal.

The deal ensured that he would be jailed for at least 18 months and up to two years, and receive a bad conduct discharge.

A soldier for 17 years, Garza also was ordered to forfeit all pay and allowances and had his rank reduced to E-4.

On Jan. 1, 2022, Garzas blood alcohol content was four times over the legal limit. After celebrating the new year with his family at home, he left for another nearby party.

When German police pulled him over for suspicious driving near the village of Enkenbach-Alsenborn, he refused to take a Breathalyzer test and was exceptionally uncooperative and dismissive, police officer Carsten Herm said.

Testifying through an interpreter, Herm described how he and a colleague had to forcefully remove Garza from his vehicle, handcuff him and take him to the police station.

Garza admitted in court that while he was at the station, he refused to answer questions, telling Herm: I dont talk to Nazis.

Herm said at another point that when Garza was asked where his drivers license was, he replied the Nazis took it.

And when we was eventually allowed to leave the station, he gave the officers a Hitler salute.

He said to my colleague that his rank was so high up that nothing would happen to him, Herm added.

After the New Years Day incident, Garza lost his first sergeant job but retained his E-8 position.

In October 2022, he got into an altercation with U.S. airmen outside a bar in downtown Kaiserslautern.

Garza explained during sentencing how he violently shoved a male airman and inappropriately touched a female airman.

He said he got violent when he offered them a ride home and they refused.

I had no right to touch anybody just because I was upset for not getting my way, he said. It was wrong of me.

The prosecution alleged that he got angry when the female airman would not allow him to touch her.

He was belligerent and angry, and I was scared, the female tech sergeant, who asked not to be named, told the judge, fighting back tears.

The womans father also testified, saying he could hear derogatory remarks being yelled at his daughter by Garza over the phone when she called him during the incident.

I look at the Army uniform and I have an unrealistic prejudice now, he said.

Defense attorney Will Helixon called Garza a good man who drunkenly made mistakes.

Garzas mother testified by telephone from Texas, describing her son as a family man who helped raise his three younger siblings and continues to provide financial support to his extended family.

But prosecutor Maj. Sara Nicholson said Garza had no respect for authority and thought of himself as above the law.

He believed his status in the military gave him a free pass, Nicholson said, when appealing to the judge, Lt. Col. Thomas Hynes, to hand down the maximum two-year sentence, adding that it would send a clear message, that soldiers cannot be promoted out of punishment.

In a sworn statement read in court, Garza said his actions have ruined his career and his familys future stability.

I am truly sorry, he said. I hope this does not define who I am as a father, husband or soldier.
Residents cross a bridge from the south side of the River Ibar, which divides ethnic Serb and Albanian communities, in Mitrovica, Kosovo, on Aug. 23, 2022. (Ben Kilb/Bloomberg)

(Bloomberg) -- Western partners called on Kosovo to stop its plans to reopen a key bridge over a river separating Albanian and Serbian communities, which may rekindle tensions in the north of the Balkan country.

US Ambassador to Pristina Jeffrey Hovenier said Friday that the US, NATO and European Union do not support any changes to the current status of the bridge over the Ibar River in the northern city of Mitrovica, one of four Serb-majority municipalities in northern Kosovo.

Nearly a thousand protesters gathered on the Serbian side of the city on Wednesday, demanding that the bridge remain closed to traffic out of fear that reopening it would intensify the presence of Kosovos Albanian-dominated authorities in their community.

The bridge in Mitrovica is currently only open to pedestrians. A former flashpoint, its now patrolled by international soldiers. It has become the iconic symbol of division between Kosovos Serb minority and its Albanian majority.

Kosovos prime minister, Albin Kurti, said he seeks to integrate Serb communities like north Mitrovica into Kosovo and denies the move to reopen the bridge is inflammatory, saying that it intends to foster peaceful interaction.

Nikola Kabasic, a retired judge, said at the protest that without the barriers on the bridge, the Serbian community would have been forced to leave the country, local media reported.

The latest controversy comes after Pristina received renewed criticism from its Western allies for unilateral and uncoordinated actions against Serb institutions in the area, such as banks and post offices. That move has also angered neighboring Serbia, which does not recognize Kosovos independence.

Kurti is keen to provoke a conflict before US elections as his time is running out, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic told reporters in Belgrade late Tuesday, referring to the Biden administrations support for Kosovo.

A reopening could cause an escalation of violence, Vucic said, hoping that KFOR, NATOs mission in Kosovo, would preserve peace and Serbian lives and prevent an invasion by Albanians.

In a post on X on Tuesday, Kurti said that the Serbian leader had made false accusations and was attempting to create an atmosphere of fear to elicit a reaction from KFOR in Mitrovica.

KFOR, NATOs mission in Kosovo, said Tuesday that any decision to open the main bridge should be made through the EU-mediated dialogue between the country and neighboring Serbia.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com

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BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 7. Kyrgyzaltyn, a national enterprise of Kyrgyzstan, sold gold and silver worth 48.27 billion soms ($574.4 million) from January through June 2024, Narimbek Satybaldiyev, Deputy Chairman of the Board of the enterprise, announced at a press conference, Trend reports.

According to Satybaldiyev, these precious metals were sold to the Department of Precious Metals under the Ministry of Finance, the National Bank, and the London Metal Exchange.

He highlighted that, for the first time in Kyrgyzaltyns history, the company began independently selling gold and silver bars on the London Metal Exchange (LME) at the highest possible prices, without discounts, starting in April.

Additionally, Satybaldiyev reported that Kyrgyzaltyn's assets reached 95.65 billion soms ($1.1 billion) by mid-2024. During the same period, the companys revenue was 53.27 billion soms ($633.9 million), and its net profit amounted to 3.46 billion soms ($41.1 million).

Kyrgyzaltyn, founded on October 15, 1992, is Kyrgyzstans largest national enterprise, specializing in the development of gold deposits and aimed at consolidating the country's mining industry.
Service members use a leg compression machine after completing part of a fitness challenge in Columbia, S.C., on May 26, 2022. Similar devices were fraudulently billed to veterans in a recent medical debt scam in Oklahoma. (Alexandra Shea/U.S. Army)

Three Oklahoma men who ran a collection agency that fraudulently demanded hefty payments from military personnel, veterans and seniors are permanently banned from further billing operations.

A federal court in Tulsa on Friday issued a permanent injunction against Christopher Parks, 63; his son, Christopher Noah Parks, 31; and his nephew, Stephen Miller, 39. Their company, Assured Collections, which was renamed Assured Financial, also is bound by the order.

The men scammed victims out of an unspecified amount by harassing them into paying medical debts that often didnt exist, the Justice Department said in a statement Tuesday.

One victim, a Medicare and Tricare insurance beneficiary from South Carolina, was sent a collection notice in 2023 demanding $5,995 for a surgery performed in 2020. Assured was not authorized to collect any payment from that person, prosecutors said.

The elder Christopher Parks, who is serving an 18-month sentence stemming from a health care kickback scheme, directed the collection scam by phone from prison, according to the Justice Department.

Misappropriating medical billing data that Parks had obtained in his previous business dealings, his son and nephew sent out thousands of deceptive debt collection letters, prosecutors said. Many letters demanded sums in the thousands of dollars, the DOJ said.

This fraud led to significant financial losses for many victims, who paid out of fear of legal repercussions, according to authorities.

The defendants in this case victimized individuals who were already traumatized by illness and were struggling emotionally, physically and financially, Clint Johnson, U.S. attorney for the northern district of Oklahoma, said in 2023 after a preliminary injunction against the group.

After hundreds of consumer complaints against Assured Collections, Parks told Miller to change the company name to Assured Financial, prosecutors said in the criminal complaint.

This switch was part of a broader strategy to evade accountability and continue exploiting consumers, according to court documents.

While a civil consent decree, such as the one issued by the court in this case, does not always equate to an admission of guilt, it often indicates that defendants agreed to the terms to avoid further litigation.

This can establish a legal precedent that might be used against them in additional civil and criminal cases. The elder Christopher Parks is already awaiting trial in Texas on fraud charges related to the billing practices of another company he operated, USA Medical, the Justice Department said.

His involvement in the debt collection scheme could lead to harsher penalties if hes convicted. His son and nephew are vulnerable to further legal action by other plaintiffs.
The landlord apologised for the text and told the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) that it was sent in frustration

WRC adjudicator wrote that the text message sent by Aidan Corless was a 'clear reference to the complainants immigrant status'. File photo

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.

The WRC has directed landlord Aidan Corless to pay 10,000 in compensation to the claimant, Irfanullah Refah, under the Equal Status Act 2000.

In submissions to the tribunal, Mr Refahs representative, Stewart Reddin of the Dublin South Citizens Information Service, said his client had been an operations manager for a non-governmental organisation doing rural development work in the south of Afghanistan, including encouraging young girls to attend school.

Because his work had involved liaising with American military forces, Mr Refah had to flee when the Taliban went on the offensive in 2017, Mr Reddin explained.

Mr Refah arrived to Ireland in 2017, was granted asylum in 2018 and subsequently given leave by the Minister for Justice to bring his family to join him in Ireland, it was submitted.

The tribunal heard the parties fell into dispute a little over a year into Mr Refahs tenancy, when the complainant sent texts in July 2023 complaining that heaters in the house were broken, windows and doors needed to be fixed and that a bathroom ceiling had collapsed.

In a replying text on July 24 of last year, the landlord accused Mr Refah of living in the property illegally and told him: "You need to be sent out of this country instead of trying to claim from the Government. We need to check what papers you used to gain entry here."

The complainant's case was that he was terrified that this could result in him being reported to the authorities and potentially being deported and returned to Afghanistan where he faced a real threat to his life, the tribunal was told.

Mr Reddin said a UN report published a few weeks after the text from the landlord revealed that since the Taliban seized Kabul in 2021, hundreds of Afghans who worked with the former Afghan government, and those who had liaised with US military forces as part of that work, have been executed, imprisoned or tortured.

The landlord, Mr Corless, said in evidence that he believed Mr Refah had been illegally in the apartment for two years and that he would never have rented a two-bed apartment to a family of six.

The tribunal heard that Mr Refah had initially paid rent for the apartment in cash to an acquaintance of his, Qamar Ali. Mr Reddin submitted that his client had received a tenancy agreement on February 27, 2022, with both with his name and Mr Alis on it. Mr Corless claimed Mr Ali was the only tenant.

Mr Ali said in evidence that Mr Corless did not know Mr Refah had a family of six staying in the two-bedroom property, and was annoyed when he found out. He confirmed under cross-examination that he did not tell the respondent about the complainants family and felt he had let Mr Corless down.

When Mr Refah served the landlord with Equal Status Act notification papers in September 2023, Mr Corless stated again that the complainant was in illegal occupation of the apartment, Mr Reddin submitted.

Based on this assertion, the respondent opined that the complainant may also be residing in Ireland with his family illegally, Mr Reddin added.

In response to the tenancy allegations, Mr Reddin submitted a Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) determination dating from May this year which concluded that Mr Corless had given no independent corroboration of his view that [Mr Refah] had no legal interest in the tenancy, adding that Mr Refah had met the respondent landlords agreed terms, commenced occupation and pays rent.

Apologising for the text of July 24 last year, Mr Corless said it was sent in frustration and that he was not proud of it.

Under cross-examination by Mr Reddin, the landlord said he knew the message would not be nicely received but that it was not meant as discriminatory. He would have said something else to an Irish person in the circumstances, he told the tribunal.

Adjudicator Marie Flynn wrote that the text message sent by Mr Corless was a clear reference to the complainants immigrant status which reflected a negative view of immigrants as coming to Ireland without the necessary permission in order to access benefits.

It appears that the respondent is attempting to use the imbalance between his position as someone who is familiar with Irish societal norms, and that of the complainant, who is an immigrant from a very different background, in an attempt to upset, frighten and intimidate the complainant, she wrote.

Neither the respondents contrition as expressed at the adjudication hearing nor his sense of frustration in any way lessen the detrimental impact of his WhatsApp message to the complainant due to the blatant racism expressed therein.

Upholding Mr Refahs complaint of discrimination under the Equal Status Act, she awarded him 10,000 in compensation.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 7. Kyrgyzstan and South Korea have discussed the launch of new flight routes, Trend reports.

According to Manas International Airport, Manasbek Samidinov, Chairman of the Board of Manas, held an official meeting with Daniel Dongik Shin, Executive Director of South Korea's Incheon Airport, who was visiting Kyrgyzstan.

The two sides exchanged views on bilateral cooperation between Manas and Incheon airports, focusing on increasing the number of flights between South Korea and Kyrgyzstan and opening new international routes.

In his statement, Dongik Shin described his visit to Kyrgyzstan as fruitful. He mentioned meeting with leading tour operators in the country and noted that South Korean citizens are interested in Kyrgyzstan's beautiful nature. Shin emphasized that joint cooperation would benefit both countries.

Incheon International Airport, located 70 kilometers from Seoul, is the largest aviation hub in South Korea and one of the world's busiest airports in terms of international passenger traffic and aircraft movements. According to the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2020, Incheon Airport was ranked fourth among the world's top 10 airports.
John Kennedy, Bothar on Corran, Ballymote, Co Sligo pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering

A childhood friend of jailed crime boss Barry Young who appeared before Sligo Circuit Court on ten charges including money laundering to pay for cocaine mixing agent Benzocaine has been jailed for one and a half years in prison by Judge Keenan Johnson.

John Kennedy, Bothar on Corran, Ballymote, Co Sligo pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering involving the transfer of funds to three Western Union accounts in the amounts of 699.77, 699.77 and 685 for the purchase of benzocaine on the 18th of September 2020.

Kennedy is one of several defendants who have been dealt with before the courts for crimes linked to the Barry Young Organised Crime Gang.

He also pleaded guilty to possession of benzocaine with intent to commit drug trafficking on the 29th of July 2021, the 8th of October 2021 and the 7th of November 2022.

Kennedy also pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine on the 29th of July 2021. The accused was also charged with participation in or contribution to the activities of criminal organisation and this charge was taken into consideration by Judge Johnson.

Mr Leo Mulrooney BL with State Solicitor Ms Elisa McHugh prosecuted. Detective Garda Eamon McDonnell of Sligo Garda Station outlined the evidence, led by Mr Mulrooney.

Mr Mulrooney said Kennedy was previously arraigned and pleaded guilty to all except count one, which was to be taken into consideration and count eight was nolle prosecui.

Mr Mulrooney outlined that counts 2, 3 and 4 related to money laundering involving sums from Western Union transfers.

Counts five and six were related to searches carried out at his address by gardai where he was charged with possession of benzocaine and also cocaine that was found on a metal spoon and a weighing scales.

The mixing agent was also found following searches on the same address on October 8 2021 and November 7 2022.

Gardai entered Kennedys home on foot of a search warrant on July 27 2021 and carried out a search where a number of bags of white powder were found and two weighing scales. Other items were also found that were not uncontrolled drugs. Analysis of the substance on the metal spoon and weighting scales had traces of cocaine.

There was also cash to the value of 1,800 found. Dt Gda TJ Gallagher got access to Kennedys bank accounts and discovered amounts sent under 700 to recipients in China which was money transferred to pay for the mixing agent.

Sligo gang boss Barry Young

The court was told a brief outline of how Detective Inspector Ray Mulderrig was the leading investigator into the Barry Young organised crime group for the serious offence of organised drug trafficking on a national and international scale with drugs and sums of cash discovered.

Dt Inspector Mulderrig led 30 separate investigations with drugs over 1.3m seized as were phones belonging to Young, who was arrested by gardai boarding a plane at Dublin Airport. Data from the contents were analysed.

Detective Garda McDonnell had prepared a summary of the phone traffic from Kennedys phone, which had also been seized.

The garda outlined messages from the accused to the Chinese company selling benzocaine in relation to ordering the drug.

There were also messages outlined between Kennedy and Sinead McCormack . There were also numerous messages between Kennedy and Young.

Kennedy had five previous convictions, including the unauthorised possession of a firearm, possession of drugs and cultivation of cannabis.

Mr Colm Smyth SC (defending) asked Dt Gda McDonnell if the plea was significant and he agreed.

He said his client was a qualified electrician and had been taking cannabis since he was 14 years of age.

Judge Johnson said he seemed to have been fairly active in the Barry Young organisation. Kennedy took to the witness box.

When asked by his barrister what his association with Barry Young was, he said they had been childhood friends since they were 13 or 14 years old.

He agreed with his counsel that he had not had a conviction since 2011.

He ran his own electrician company and employed apprentices. He was married with three children aged 11, 12 and 18, and he was the carer for his elderly parents as all his siblings live in the UK.

Mr Smyth said it could be said he was not the type of man to become involved in this. Kennedy replied it was my own stupidity.

He was undergoing drug counselling and had been drug free for seven months. He said he was diagnosed with ADHD, and he said he did not socialise with anyone anymore.

When asked by counsel if he had any insight into the effects drugs have, Kennedy said they have my own life ruined.

His reputation as a tradesman was in ruins.

Judge Johnson asked him did he not realise all the misery he was causing by peddling drugs and he replied he wanted to apologise it was stupid and he should have known better.

He said: the whole thing is embarrassing.

Judge Johnson asked him did it not dawn on him from the first garda search to get out of this and it was still ongoing 18 months later.

Mr Smyth said the biggest problem was his association with Young from friends and he had a lot of problems like his addiction to cannabis and ADHD.

Judge Johnson said that he accepts Kennedy was not a huge player but he was active. He wilfully engaged in this activity and was not under pressure.

Giving sentence, Judge Johnson said, the positions was the accused had pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering, possession of benzocaine and cocaine.

The background to the offending is that the accuseds name and contact details were found on a phone belonging to Barry Young the titular head of the notorious Barry Young

Organised Crime Group, which was involved in the sale and distribution of drugs both nationally and internationally.

Subsequent investigations indicated considerable communication between the accused and Barry Young relating to drug activity.

The communications also disclosed that the accused had communicated with Sinead McCormack for the purpose of delivering mixing agent to her premises.

There was also communication with a company in China that provides and supplies mixing agents indicating that the accused had purchased same.

Gardai got a search warrant and on the 29th of July 2021 for the accuseds residence at 24 Bothan an Corran, Ballymote.

The search disclosed 21.1kg of benzocaine mixing agent. Gardai also found weighing scales and a spoon all with traces of cocaine on them.

A further search of the accuseds residence of the 8th of October 2021 disclosed three bags containing a total of 1186 grammes of benzocaine.

Another search on the 7th of November 2022 disclosed 1800 in cash and 1107 grammes of benzocaine mixing agent.

Judge Johnson said that it is clear from the evidence that the accused was involved in the illicit drugs business and was engaged with a number of criminal peers.

The accused has previous convictions including one for cultivation of drugs and possession of drugs.

The illicit proliferation of drugs has become a scourge for society and as a consequence the courts are obligated to impose significant sentences on people like the accused who facilitate and enable the distribution of illicit drugs.

The Oireachtas has established significant penalties for such activity, the judge said. Judge Johnson said that the aggravating factors were that it is clear the offending went on for a considerable period of time and there was a level of planning and premeditation involved.

The accused clearly knew that what he was doing was wrong and illegal yet he persisted in that activity knowing the ill effects that it caused to society.

The fact that the accused has a previous conviction for cultivation and possession was also an aggravating factor, the judge outlined. He said it is clear the accused was not acting under duress, the Judge said and acknowledged his behaviour was stupid. He readily admitted in his testimony to the court that there was no excuse for his behaviour.

The judge said the quantity of the mixing agents was also significant. The judge said by engaging in this activity, the accused was enabling others to engage in the illicit drug business. He said that while he may not have been a primary supplier, nevertheless his culpability is equal to those of suppliers because his actions enabled the supplier to pedal and sell drugs. In terms of mitigating factors, the judge said the guilty plea was of significant value.

However, he said the evidence against the accused was extremely strong and left him with little option but to plead guilty. In particular, the finding of the mixing agent and cash in his house together with the telephonic communications made the case against him almost impossible to defend.

He said the court had been furnished with an extremely comprehensive forensic psychological report from Dr OLeary and Dr Lackey. It set out in detail his history and showed he has a significant psychological disability in the form of ADHD.

The report disclosed he started taking cannabis from the age of 14 and did this until he was 17. He then graduated onto heavier drugs including cocaine. The judge said he is a person of considerable talents and qualified as an electrician.

The report noted the accused appears to have had regular contact with people who were known to be involved in criminality and these friendships resulted in him being in a position where he was asked to commit the index offences and/or was exposed to the opportunity to commit them.

In his interactions with Dr OLeary, the accused indicated that he was not part of the Barry Young Organised Crime Group, although he admitted he was a childhood friend of Barry Young and continues to be friendly with him.

The judge said it would seem to the court that the accused is deluded in maintaining that he is not part of Youngs group given the extensive communications relating to drug issues with Young that were found on his phone.

He said it seems clear from the forensic psychological report that the covid lockdown had a hugely negative impact on the accused.

He was left without his primary coping mechanisms for his ADHD namely attendance at the gym and work. As a consequence, he experienced heightened anxiety over his financial situation and his parents declining health.

He suffered symptoms of depression and described how he felt lost.

The judge noted the accuseds drug and alcohol use escalated during the period.

He said the accused had not consumed illicit drugs since January 2024.

He said he was in a stable relationship and has three children and appears is a good father. He said his incarceration will impact on his family. It will also impact on his business as an electrician.

The judge said it would seem that his ADHD and addictions are the primary reasons why he became involved in the offences. He said he had accumulated 9,000 which he is prepared to offer as a form of restorative justice.

He said that is a significant sum and indicative of his remorse.

He said he is also engaged in renovating rural property and that this work is almost complete. Judge Johnson said the court was impressed with the accused when he gave testimony to the court.

He appeared to be genuinely remorseful for his offending and he offered no excuse for it.

He acknowledged that he was stupid should not have behaved in the way that he did.

Judge Johnson said he was satisfied the offending attracted a headline sentence of six years.

He said taking into account the mitigation, he was going to reduce that to four years.

He said he was imposing a sentence of four years on each of the money laundering charges counts 2, 3 and 4 to run concurrently together with concurrent sentences of two years on each of the mixing agent charges counts 5, 7 and 9 and he suspended the final two years and six months of the sentence for a period of five years.

Conditions included that he enter a bond of 500 to keep the peace and be of good behaviour, submit himself to supervision by the probation service for a period of 18 months post release and follows all directions from the probation service in dealing with his offending behaviour, his addictions and his mental health issues.

The accused must also complete a residential substance abuse treatment programme within a period of 12 months post his release from prison.

He must also refrain from the consumption of all illicit substances and alcohol for the duration of the suspended sentence provide urine analysis if requested.

He also ordered him to pay by way of restorative justice, 9,000 to be divided equally between the Ballymote St Vincent de Paul, the Ballymote Tidy Towns committee and the North West Hospice. The other charges were taken into consideration.

Kennedy was told to present himself at Ballymote Garda Station on September 1 to begin his prison sentence.
Kinahan cartel men Liam Byrne and Bomber Kavanagh facing lengthy trial over weapons plot

Kinahan Cartel lieutenants Liam Byrne and Thomas Bomber Kavanagh could launch a legal challenge against the use of intercepted Encrohat messages, a UK court has heard.

The pair are facing a lengthy trial over an alleged plot to get a reduced sentence for Kavanagh by hiding a stash of weapons and later revealing their whereabouts to police.

Both Byrne and Kavanagh had been due to appear at an Old Bailey court hearing this week with co-accused Shaun Kent and Daniel McLoughlin.

The pre-trial court session heard that there could yet be a challenge as to whether intercepted phone messages are admissible in court.

French police hacked the Encrochat messaging system used by suspected crime syndicates in 2020 and gave their intelligence to the UKs National Crime Agency (NCA).

Counsel for Kavanagh said they had been granted legal aid for a digital expert who will mark the NCAs homework and should provide a report in a couple of weeks.

The defence legal strategy will depend on the contents of that report as well the effect of an expected ruling in another case involving Encrochat evidence.

It is also expected there could be a week of legal argument in the absence of a jury when the trial begins next month.

Liam Byrne

Neither Byrne nor Kavanagh appeared by video link from the high-security Belmarsh prison due to staff shortages, it was heard in court.

The pair were later seen in separate video link rooms at Belmarsh joining the afternoon court session after it had already begun.

At a hearing in March, Kavanagh, Kent and Byrne denied being part of the conspiracy to acquire guns and ammunition, between January 2020 and June 2021.

McLoughlin had already pleaded not guilty to being part of the conspiracy.

Kavanagh (56) is serving 21-year sentence for organising cocaine and cannabis shipments worth 36 million.

His brother-in-law, Liam Byrne, was charged in relation to the plot after being extradited from Spain last December.

Thomas 'Bomber' Kavanagh

Eleven weapons were found in Newry on May 20, 2021, including a Heckler & Koch and Czech VZ61 Skorpion sub-machine guns and pistols along with ammunition.

It was previously heard that the case centres on Encrochat handles and information received about the weapons hidden in Ireland.

Earlier this year, details of the alleged Encrochat messages emerged during Irish court bid by the UK authorities to have Kinahan Cartel member Peadar Keating extradited to also face charges.

Keating is serving an 11-year sentence in Ireland over his role in a plot to kill James Mago Gately, which was directed by Daniel Kinahan and Sean McGovern from Dubai.

It is alleged in the UK warrant that Keating messaged a username apony on April 8, 2020, saying he has tools in Ireland, UK and in flatwatch, a term believed to refer to the Netherlands.

It was claimed that on April 12, 2020, Keating tells apony I have loads of tools mate and that he will get onto the dutch guy to see what tools he can get us and prices.

Four days later on April 16, 2020, Keating sends apony a photograph of a pistol and follows with Dutch guy has them.

Peadar Keating

The warrant alleges that two days later, on April 18, 2020, Keating message apony that Liam can get Glocks for 3.5K.

It was heard in the High Court that in May 2020, the warrant claims Keating is contacted by thilive, which is alleged to be gangster Liam Byrne and basilbadge, believed to be Jack Kavanagh, to obtain 14 firearms through an unknown third party.

This was at the request of another Encrochat user called marcosafe, who was a messenger for Thomas Kavanagh.

The warrant states that Keating messages back on May 22, 2020, with 14 ready to go and that thilive will assist or organise the delivery arrangements.

Then, on May 27, 2020, Heckler & Koch and Glock weapons are discussed before a message from basilbadger on June 1, 2020, ends the contact with Keating saying we have small 20 yokes in flat.

Bomber Kavanaghs troubles began in January 2017, after gardai acting on information from the UK raided a unit at Greenogue industrial estate, Dublin, which uncovered a weapons stash.
Jonathan Abraham, 47, was arrested in Dublin on July 30

A London-based rabbi accused of performing an illegal circumcision on a young child in Dublin has been further remanded in custody pending directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Jonathan Abraham, 47, was arrested in Dublin on July 30 and charged with performing a surgical procedure, male circumcision on a child, without being a registered medical practitioner at an address in Dublin 15.

Two days later, the father of 10 was denied bail, and he faced his second hearing when he appeared at Cloverhill District Court yesterday.

Judge Catherine Hayden noted from the court sergeant that the DPP's directions were still outstanding.

Defence solicitor Ciara Hallinan said the accused, who did not address the court, consented to a two-week adjournment.

Judge Hayden remanded him in continuing custody to appear again via video link on August 20.

At the previous hearing in Dublin District Court, Detective Garda Megan Furey said Mr Abraham "made no reply" when charged. Due to the seriousness of the case, there were objections to bail.

The detective had said the offence, contrary to the Medical Practitioners Act 2007, could result in a maximum fine of 130,000 and five years' imprisonment.

Detective Garda Furey said there was strong evidence in support of the charge. Gardai entered an address in Dublin 15 just after 1 pm on Tuesday with the homeowners' consent.

According to the detective, they observed the accused "dressed in a white robe, a doctor's-style coat, with blue gloves and a scalpel in his hand."

The court heard there was a table in the middle of the room with a changing pad, scissors and other medical supplies and implements.

"Gardai at this time also observed a very young child on the changing pad naked," she said, adding that they established that a circumcision procedure had already been carried out on another child at the premises.

The detective had told the court that a file is being prepared for the DPP, and "it's envisaged that there will be multiple further charges in due course".

Citing "significant flight risk" fears, she said that the accused flew into Ireland on July 30 around noontime and had a return flight booked for the same evening. She added that he had no ties to this jurisdiction and did not have any property, assets or dependents in this country.

She described him as a man of means and had grave concerns that he would evade justice, adding that he had a strong incentive to leave the country.

The detective agreed that the accused had not held himself out to be a doctor, and she accepted that he was a rabbi.

The hearing was told that Mr Abraham was registered as a mohel, the Hebrew term for a person qualified to carry out circumcisions. It was claimed he was a member of the Initiation Society, the oldest Anglo-Jewish organisation founded in 1745.

The hearing was told that he was allowed to perform circumcisions, had done so for more than 13 years, and was fully trained medically and ethically to perform them.

The court heard that the same procedures would have been completely legal in England.
Mr Danca lodged a bail application before Mr Justice Paul Burns in the High Court in Cloverhill.

A CONSTRUCTION worker accused of delivering a "full force" kick to the head of a Canadian tourist who later died has postponed a bail application pending a "further charge".

Ionut Danca, 24, a Romanian national with an address at Rathdown Square, North Circular Road, Dublin 7, was accused of assault causing harm to Neno Dolmajian in the early hours of June 23.

He was denied bail on June 28 at Dublin District Court.

Mr Dolmajian, who was from Montreal, single and in his 40s, was brought to the Mater Hospital "unresponsive", never regained consciousness and on July 2, he passed away.

Mr Danca lodged a bail application before Mr Justice Paul Burns in the High Court in Cloverhill.

His barrister said the injured party was now deceased, and it was expected that further charges would be proffered.

The application was adjourned until August 27.

At his earlier District Court bail hearing, Detective Sergeant Eoghan Byrne said the accused was allegedly with a group at Cathal Brugha Street when the injured party approached and engaged in conversation.

It was claimed a member of the group struck him, and they moved on to O'Connell Street, where there was another interaction with the injured party.

Some "became hostile", while others tried to intervene.

The tourist walked toward the quays but was allegedly knocked on the ground and received a "running kick". The detective described it as a full-force blow to his face.

CCTV evidence had been obtained, and it was alleged the accused's action caused the tourist's injury.

The court also heard that aware gardai were looking for him, he left the country for two days. Initially, he booked a flight from Dublin to Bucharest, and officers waited for him at the airport.

But he went to Belfast instead and flew to Edinburgh and then Naples.

According to Detective Sergeant Byrne, gardai went to his Dublin address, but it was "cleaned out," and there were 10 bags of his belongings. It was claimed that "his girlfriend indicated they intended to leave Ireland permanently and have their stuff shipped to Romania."

The detective sergeant believed Mr Danca had no ties to this jurisdiction and could face additional charges.

He agreed with defence solicitor Evan Moore that the accused had no prior criminal convictions and lived and worked in Ireland for six years and that he came back voluntarily following discussions.

However, he said that happened after two days of avoiding calls, texts, and emails, and he was aware of the efforts to locate him.

Another man is also before the courts accused of assaulting the Canadian tourist.
Dylan Scannell (30) was charged with the murder of Ian Baitson (33) over the St Patrick's bank holiday weekend

30-year-old Dylan Scannell at Midleton District Court in Co Cork charged in connection with the murder of Ian Baitson

A man charged with the murder of a talented Cork chef who suffered fatal injuries in an alleged sword attack now faces two further counts.

Dylan Scannell (30) was charged with the murder of Ian Baitson (33) over the St Patrick's bank holiday weekend in the Cork harbour town of Cobh.

Scannell of O'Rahilly Street, Cobh, Co Cork was charged before Midleton District Court last March.

He appeared again before Mallow District Court yesterday in respect of two further charges.

Scannell is now charged with production of a long-bladed sword and money-laundering.

He was charged that, on March 15 last at Eurostar car park, Newtown Road, Cobh, Co Cork that he did, while committing an offence, to wit, murder contrary to Common Law, in the course of a dispute produce an article capable of inflicting serious injury, namely a long bladed sword.

The alleged offence is contrary to Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, 1990.

Scannell was also charged with allegedly handling, possessing and using property that was the proceeds of criminal conduct, to wit cash, while knowing that as to whether not the said property was the proceeds of criminal conduct.

The offence for which he is charged is contrary to Section 7 of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act, 2010.)

Det Garda David OShea gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution.

Ian Baitson.

He said that Scannell made no reply when the two new charges were put to him yesterday at Mallow Courthouse.

Inspector Tony OSullivan applied for a remand for a week for the service of the book of evidence in the case.

The remand was consented to and Judge Marie Keane remanded Scannell in custody to appear before the court on August 13 next.

Scannell will appear by video link when he is next before the court.

He was first detained last March for questioning under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 in respect of the death of Mr Baitson.

Det Garda Gerard O'Shaughnessy gave the court evidence of arrest, caution and charge.

He told Judge Colm Roberts last March that when the charge was formally put to Scannell, the defendant made no reply.

Scannell is charged with the murder of Ian Baitson at Newtown Road in Cobh.

Mr Baitson suffered a catastrophic leg injury, alleged to have been inflicted with a sword, on March 15 and died four days later at Cork University Hospital (CUH) on March 19.

The chef had been in a critical condition since being rushed to hospital and undergoing emergency surgery.

A post mortem examination was later conducted at CUH.

Gardai have refused to comment on the findings of the post mortem examination for operational reasons.

However, Mr Baitson is understood to have died from shock, trauma and blood loss after suffering a severe leg injury consistent with being slashed by a heavy bladed weapon.

He is survived by his mother, Helen, his brother, Richard, and his children, Zoe and Myles.

The father-of-two was injured at 8.55pm on March 15 at a car park near a busy shop on the Newtown Road in Cobh.

He immediately collapsed after suffering a severe leg wound.

Shocked locals ran to his aid and tried to halt the blood loss.

Cobh locals have hailed one young man - German exchange student Arian Hanitzsch (18) - as a hero for how he used his first aid training in a desperate bid to help Mr Baitson.

Arian sat his Leaving Cert at Colaiste Eamon Ris and was trained in first aid in his native Germany, later joining the Red Cross in Cork to maintain his skills.

Mr Baitson was a skilled chef and had worked in a number of leading Cork hotels, restaurants and gastro pubs.

He was born and raised in the Cork harbour town.

One former employer, who asked not to be named, said he was a hugely talented chef who was destined one day to run his own restaurant.

"Ian was a lovely guy - a gifted chef and someone who got on with everyone," he said.

"He worked with me for about a year. He was very talented and I knew that he was on his way to run his own restaurant some day. We are all absolutely devastated to hear of his death."

In a statement last March, his family thanked all those who had desperately tried to help him.

"We, Ians family wish to thank our extended family and friends for their unwavering help and support throughout this hard time, Arian and Liam whose heroic efforts kept Ian with us so we were able to say our goodbyes, to his great friends Sarah and Gary for being constantly by his side for days that followed, Ians friends who travelled home from abroad to say their last goodbyes and to the staff of the ICU ward, the paramedics, gardai, surgeons and nursing staff who helped prepare us for the devastating loss of a beautiful and wonderful person."
According to the prosecution, Cosmin Vranceanu threw a glass at a wall 15 feet away and it came bouncing back off the wall

A nightclubber who got into a row threw a glass that bounced off a wall and hit a woman in the face, leaving her with cuts, it is alleged.

Cosmin Vranceanu (22) had never met the woman and was not aiming at her when he threw the glass that caused the injury, Dublin District Court was told.

Adjourning the case, Judge Bryan Smyth said he would need to see updated medical evidence on the womans injuries before deciding on a court venue.

Mr Vranceanu, with an address at Buckingham Village in the north inner city, is charged with assault causing harm to a woman on March 17 this year.

A garda sergeant said the Director of Public Prosecutions consented to the case being heard at district court level, subject to the judge considering the issue of jurisdiction.

Judge Smyth asked for an outline of the proposed evidence so he could decide on this. The court heard it was alleged the accused had been in the nightclub and was intoxicated when he got into an altercation with a number of other men.

According to the prosecution, he threw a glass at a wall 15 feet away and it came bouncing back off the wall and caught the woman below the eye, resulting in cuts to her face. She went to hospital for treatment.

Mr Vranceanu and the alleged victim did not know each other and had never met or interacted before, the court heard.

Defence solicitor Evan Moore said the glass was not alleged to have been aimed at the woman.

Clinical notes and photographs were submitted to the court.

Judge Smyth viewed the photographs of the womans injuries and said it looks like a deep enough laceration. He said he would need to see an up-to-date report as, from the photos, it looks like quite a deep gash which is visible, and theres another on her eyelid.

He deferred a decision on jurisdiction and adjourned the case to a date next month. If jurisdiction is accepted, the case can be dealt with in the district court.

Otherwise it will be sent forward to the circuit court which has tougher sentencing powers on conviction.

The accused was remanded on continuing bail.
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.
Clive Goulden pleaded guilty to possession of 30 videos and ten of child sexual abuse images

The case was outlined at Sligo Circuit Court sitting at Sligo Courthouse.

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.

Clive Goulden, Gortnadrass, Lavagh, Ballymote, Co Sligo pleaded guilty to possession of 30 videos and ten of child sexual abuse images at Gortnadrass, Lavagh on June 4, 2021.

He was also charged that on dates between January 25, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at the same address he attempted production of child pornography.

On dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at the same address, he was charged with the attempted inviting, inducing, counselling or inciting a child to sexual touching.

On dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at the same address he was charged with the attempted engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child under 17.

He was charged on dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, that he attempted to cause a child under 17 to watch or to look at an image of a person engaged in sexual activity for the purposes of sexual gratification or corrupting or depraving the child.

He was also charged that on dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at Gortnadrass, Lavagh, Ballymote that he attempted communication by means of information and communication technology to facilitate the sexual exploitation of a child under 17.

The court heard the defendant was sent forward from the District Court on a signed plea of guilty.

Mr Leo Mulrooney BL with State Solicitor Ms Elisa McHugh prosecuted, while Mr Colm Smyth SC with Eoin McGovern BL and McGovern Walsh solicitors defended.

Detective Garda Lydia Cawley of Sligo Garda Station outlined the evidence, led by Mr Mulrooney.

Mr Mulrooney said that counts two to six were in relation to online activity between Goulden and an undercover law enforcement officer based in the UK purporting to be a 12 year old girl, called Caitlyn.

Count one was possession of child pornography found in his home when the investigation was launched which were 30 videos and ten images of child sexual abuse.

Count two was the attempted production of child pornography.

Count three was the attempt to invite or induce a child to sexual touching.

Count four was the attempt to engage in sexual activity in the presence of a child.

Count five was the attempt to cause a child to watch or look at an image.

Count six was the attempted communication to facilitate sexual activity of a child.

Dt Gda Cawley told the court she received a report from an online child exploitation unit in the UK in relation to a suspect in possession of child pornography with an address at Gortnadrass, Lavagh, Co Sligo.

The person was subsequently identified as Clive Goulden.

The garda carried out enquiries and discovered he was working at Abbvie Ireland in Sligo and was married and at the time had one child with another on the way.

Tusla were also notified of the investigation.

Mr Mulrooney said that the undercover operation in the UK called Operation Reveal 2 involved an online operative purporting to be a young child.

The accused had been involved in sexually explicit chat with the 12 year old girl who went by the name of Caitlyn.

Gardai were satisfied a photo of Goulden that was exchanged with the girl was the accused.

Enquiries were also carried out on email addresses and IP address.

Dt Sgt Susanne Gilmore obtained a warrant and Dt Gda Cawley accompanied her to search Gouldens home.

A number of devices were seized and analysed.

While in the house, Dt Cawley said she was satisfied it was the same house background as seen in the photographs that Goulden sent.

His phone was also seized.

Goulden was later arrested and interviewed.

There were 30 videos and 10 images found on a black android phone.

Mr Mulrooney gave a brief description of same, one he said was of a male involved in a sex act with a baby girl between the age of six months and a year.

Another image was of an adult male involved in a sex act with a baby girl.

There were further images and videos described.

A statement from the law enforcement officer in UK who is anonymous said they were a trained operative tasked to investigate people interested in children.

They used various apps to gather evidence.

On January 18 2021 they were purporting to be a 12 year old girl and opened the app and there was a friend request from the accused.

There were three photos blurred out and when clicked on they revealed an image of an adult penis.

They accepted the friend request and there were conversations including a 15 second video being sent of an adult male masturbating with audio.

There was another video of an adult male sent on January 29 2021.

The chat continued until February 2 2021.

Dt Gda Cawley said that it was clear Goulden had reason to believe he was talking to a 12 year old girl.

He was asking Caitlyn to send a picture and revealed he was living in Ireland and asked what does she look like.

When the operative sent a picture Goulden replied no doubt youre that good looking and described her as being so hot.

He divulged that he made drugs and joked he did so legally for a pharmaceutical company. The garda said she was satisfied the pics sent were of him.

Another picture was sent asking her to take a closer look at his sweatpants.He said he wanted to have her sit on his lap.

Dt Gda Cawley said that it was highly sexualised chat.

Mr Mulrooney said there was more chat describing types of activity with an adult and a child in explicit fantasies.

Interviews were conducted with Goulden and he made admissions to a certain extent.

He said he was married with two children and worked for a pharmaceutical company over capital projects for 8 years.

He had a Masters in Engineering and his wife was a pharmacist. He was shown a phone and he confirmed it was his.

He was asked if there were hidden files and he said potentially.

He was asked if he shared sexually explicit images and he said yes. When asked if he had sexually explicit chat with a child he said potentially.

When asked if he shared sexually explicit images he said yes.

It was put to him that the person he was engaging in conversation with an undercover operative.

Asked in the second interview if the male in the pictures were him he said yes. He denied being sexually attracted to children.

He said the child sexual abuse images on his phone started when he downloaded links sent to him on the app.

When asked how it ended up on his phone he said he downloaded it.

He told gardai he tried to get help for an addiction to adult pornography but the waiting list was too long.

He had no previous convictions.

Defending barrister Mr Smyth said that his client had three lengthy garda interviews and there was a lot of detail gleaned.

He offered details of his apps and when it was put to him that he exchanged images with a 12 year old his response was yeah.

He admitted he was addicted to adult pornography. Dt Gda Cawley said from looking at his devices this was true.

Mr Smyth said he had not come to the attention of gardai since.

He said he was a good family man and was supported by his wife and parents. He had since lost him employment.

There was considerable publicity attached to this, said Mr Smyth. The defendant took to the witness box and said he was disgusted with myself.

He was undergoing therapy and had completed the Children First Programme that was the basics around safeguarding children. His mother had given a reference setting out her views on his role as a father and son.

His wife had also given a similar testimonial.

Mr Smyth said these were very serious matters and people make the horrendous mistake that there are no victims but of course there are.

There are innocent children subjected to horrendous abuse by adults. He was asked by the barrister if he had any apology to make.

Goulden said hearing it all back disgusts him. It goes against everything he was taught about morals and it was not a victimless crime.

He could see how wrong, reckless and dangerous it was and said he wanted to do everything to make it up.

Mr Smyth put it to him what his thoughts would be if it was his child being abused and he said unthinkable.

Judge Johnson said it was very hard to see how it could not carry a custodial sentence.

He said the message has to go out that anyone who engages in this reprehensible activity has to get a custodial sentence.

He said that jail was unavoidable. He adjourned to December for sentencing and for updated reports and Goulden to have his ongoing counselling completed.
He had been allowed bail with conditions but brought an application to the High Court in Cloverhill, Dublin, to let him return to Canada for two weeks to see his father.

Bryan Hughes, 42yrs, of Lower Salthill Road, Galway, originally from Canada, pictured leaving Cloverhill District Court in Dublin after a court appearance - assault causing serious harm charge pic: IrishPhotoDesk.ie

A theatre student accused of severely injuring a French man who suffered 14 kicks to his head in Galway city centre has been refused permission to leave the State temporarily to visit his ill father.

Bryan Hughes, 42, of Lower Salthill Road, Galway, was charged with causing serious harm to the man, who is in his 20s, on June 11, last year on Dominick Street.

He had been allowed bail with conditions but brought an application to the High Court in Cloverhill, Dublin, to let him return to Canada for two weeks to see his father.

Mr Justice Paul Burns heard that the accused had dual Canadian and Irish citizenship. He came to Ireland three years ago and wished to remain to allow him travel.

The court heard he had been employed as a waiter but had completed an education programme, worked in the arts and obtained a place on a theatre course.

Mr Justice Burns heard the accused had been served with a book of evidence last week and was returned for trial to appear at Galway Circuit Criminal Court on October 7 next.

Mr Hughes said he was concerned he would not see his father, who has stage-four dementia, again, and his family would lodge 5,000 from his father's estate.

Objecting to the application, Detective Garda Enda Dowling told Mr Justice Burns the alleged injured party was a French national who sustained 14 or 15 kicks to the head.

He was in an Irish hospital for three weeks before being repatriated and spending another nine months in a French hospital.

The court heard the man suffered serious injuries and had to learn how to walk and talk again.

Mr Justice Burns said the accused had the presumption of innocence, and he sympathised with the applicant due to his father's condition.

However, he noted the seriousness of the case and also said he was not impressed with the single-page medical evidence produced in court and refused the request to change the bail terms.
PSNI has no doubt there is paramilitary element in latest Belfast disorder

PSNI assistant chief constable Melanie Jones speaks to the media outside PSNI headquarters in east Belfast yesterday. Photo: PA

Police have arrested three men after a number of incidents in north Belfast  including a car being rammed into an estate agents and masked men kicking in residents front doors.

At around 8.45pm on Tuesday evening, it was reported to police that a car was hijacked by a group of masked men on Fingal Street.

The vehicle was driven at the front of Rea Estates estate agents on Woodvale Road, causing minimal damage to the building, according to the PSNI.

Police said officers were immediately deployed to the scene when it was reported, just after 9.25pm, that masked men were smashing windows in the Rathlin Street area.

A police helicopter was also circling the scene.

Crowds gathered in the streets and it's understood that local bus services were suspended.

Three men, aged 26, 28 and 41, have been arrested on suspicion of offences including criminal damage and are in custody.

A number of homes belonging to foreign nationals have been attacked in the Woodvale area.

BBC presenter Stephen Nolan said Rea Estates was targeted hours after the owner recorded an interview for The Nolan Show, which is set to air on Radio Ulster on Wednesday morning.

I understand people were in the building at the time, he posted on X. .

4 masked men got out of the car .

There has been misinformation about the business circulating on Twitter .

The owner of the business had this morning recorded an interview with me, due to be broadcast tomorrow  talking about his fear of being attacked because of lies on Twitter.

"It has now come true.

Superintendent Allister Hagan said: I want to reassure the community that our officers remain in the area tonight, and north Belfast residents will be aware of their visible presence on the streets.

Our enquiries into the reports we have received this evening, which we are treating as racially-motivated hate crimes, are ongoing and we would encourage anyone with information to contact us on 101, or 999 in an emergency, quoting reference 1609 of 06/08/24.

He also encouraged people to submit information, images and footage through the major incident public portal that has been set up.

Paramilitaries

Meanwhile, paramilitaries are suspected to have been an element in the latest disorder in Belfast.

The violence comes after 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.

The UKs Northern Ireland secretary Hilary Benn said yesterday evening: 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 at a press conference at PSNI headquarters yesterday, 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.

Paramilitary element suspected in latest disorder in Belfast

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.

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 yesterday morning counting the costs.

Butcher Jamal Ghabes said: 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.

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, it 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.

Ms Jones said the violence 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.

Four men linked to disorder on Saturday appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday. A judge described scenes of violence at the weekend as absolutely disgraceful as he refused bail to the four men.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 7. Kyrgyzstan plans to launch G-Cloud, a state cloud storage, the Minister of Digital Development Nuria Kutnaeva said at a press conference, Trend reports.

Kutnaeva explained that previously, government agencies were responsible for purchasing their own cloud storage servers. With the launch of G-Cloud, all cloud storage will be managed through the state data processing center.

She also noted that a state data processing center is expected to open in Kyrgyzstan in the near future.

G-Cloud will be a comprehensive suite of hardware and software solutions designed to efficiently provide computing resources, including cloud technologies, for various tasks.

At the same press conference, it was noted that Kyrgyzstan has laid more than 2,500 kilometers of fiber-optic communication lines from January through June 2024 as part of its internet expansion efforts.
The Prison Officers Association has branded it as sinister and cowardly.

The home of a prison officer has been targeted by a crime gang in frightening arson attack in the early hours of the morning.

The Prison Officers Association has branded it as sinister and cowardly and criminals linked to the McCarthy-Dundon gang have been identified as the initial suspects.

Niall Donald speaks to Eamon Dillon about the details of the arson attack and the threats faced by prison staff in Ireland.

MORE EPISODES 
The court heard that the judge was considering sending the MMA fighter to jail as he dressed him down for his appalling driving.

Conor McGregor has been handed down a 5-month suspended sentence and banned from driving for 2 years after being convicted of dangerous driving.

The court heard that the judge was considering sending the MMA fighter to jail as he dressed him down for his appalling driving.

Niall speaks to Eimear Rabbitt about the details of the incident and McGregor's previous brushes with the law.

MORE EPISODES 
Bebe King, six, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class

Inquests are to be opened into the deaths of three girls who were fatally stabbed in Southport.

Bebe King, six, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died after a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class at the Hart Space on Monday July 29.

Their inquests will be formally opened at Bootle Town Hall in Merseyside.

Axel Rudakubana, 17, from Lancashire, is set to stand trial next year after being charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Family, friends and members of the local community have since paid their respects to the victims of the attack.

Hundreds of floral tributes have been left at the scene of the attack in Hart Street and a number of vigils have taken place in the town to remember the girls.

In a statement, Bebes family said: No words can describe the devastation that has hit our family as we try to deal with the loss of our little girl Bebe.

Alices family said: Keep smiling and dancing like you love to do, our princess, like we said before to you, youre always our princess and no one would change that. Love from Your Hero Daddy and Mummy.

During a service at St Patricks Church in Southport on Tuesday afternoon, one speaker fought back tears as she said: Alice, you are the most beautiful, strongest girl in the world and I hope you know we love you from the bottom of our hearts. Keep smiling and dancing with the girls.

She read out another message from the family, which said: We love you Alice, Your smile is extremely contagious and full of joy. You never fail to uplift everyones mood.

People protest in Sunderland city centre following the stabbing attacks on Monday in Southport,

The service, led by Father John Heneghan, featured hymns and speeches read in both English and Portuguese.

One of Alices classmates said: You will be in our hearts forever. You are the most kindest person in the world, and we know that you are the strongest girl we have ever met.

A member of staff from Alices school read out messages from her classmates, including one which said: Alice, so kind and caring, with a smile so bright, forever in our hearts.

The congregation gathered for a rendition of You Are My Sunshine outside the church following the ceremony.

Elsies great-aunt described her as lovely, sweet and gentle, BBC News reported.

Jean Stevenson said her grand-niece was absolutely the sweetest child you could ever wish to meet.

Merseyside Police said all three families are being supported by specialist officers.

Five other children and two adults were seriously injured in the attack at around 11.45am on July 29.

Around 400 people have since been arrested in riots that spread across the country after the incident.

Around 100 individuals have been charged, according to director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, British prime minister Keir Starmer promised communities will be safe after a Cobra meeting and said those taking part in the unrest will feel the full force of the law.
Nick Reynolds dad Bruce was once one of the worlds most wanted men for his role in the Great Train Robbery of 1963.

Nicola Tallant sits down with a man who spent his early childhood on the run with his fugitive father in a new episode of the Crime World podcast.

Nick Reynolds dad Bruce was once one of the worlds most wanted men for his role in the Great Train Robbery of 1963.

He is widely regarded as the mastermind behind the infamous heist, which saw a gang of 15 run off with 2.61 million in cash (worth around 69 million today) after intercepting a Glasgow to London Royal Mail in Ledburn, Bucks.

But when police discovered the robbers hideout with incriminating fingerprints on a Monopoly board, several of the gang members were quickly arrested and convicted.

Bruce Reynolds, leader of the gang, which committed the 2.6 million pound 'Great Train Robbery' in August 1963, outside Linslade Court, Buckinghamshire, 18th November 1968.

However, Bruce avoided jail by "laying low in Mexico with his wife Frances and their son Nick, then just a toddler.

Sculptor and musician Nick joined the Sunday Worlds Nicola Tallant on Crime World this week to speak about his unusual childhood, which is the focus of his audiobook Fugitive.

It was generally my dad's modus operandi that after any crime that he'd done and he was wanted for questioning, he would make sure that he wasn't available for questioning, he explained in Mondays episode.

In the case of the Great Train Robbery, his plan was to kind of lay down low for a bit... He actually thought that it would all die down after about six months.

But, once he started seeing the sentences that the robbers were being given, which was 30 years, he decided, Let's get out of here. And so, I spent five years on the run with him as a result of that.

The Reynolds family lived a life of luxury in Mexico, mingling with the richest people in the country while Bruce took on new business opportunities.

Artist Nick Reynolds presents his fathers Lotus Cortina at the ExCel Exhibition Centre in London during The London Classic Car Show on February 15, 2018 (Photo by Dominika Zarzycka/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

At one point, Nick recalls, they were so wealthy that his parents managed to bag front row tickets to see Frank Sinatra perform in Las Vegas and even flew to Los Angeles just to eat a steak.

We rented a penthouse in Mexico City off the President of the Bank of Mexico's son... We were living with the top sort of 3pc of Mexico at that time, and my dad was very good at fooling people into letting them believe what he said he was.

My dad could pull off the suave English gentleman quite well if he wanted to. He was very well read and so could appear extremely educated (like) a lot of his peers in Mexico were.

But their expensive lifestyle eventually caught up with them and funds quickly ran low so Bruce decided to move his family back to the UK after briefly relocating to Canada and France with plans to carry out another heist.

"We moved to Torquay, got ourselves a nice place there and he was toing and froing to London and back down to the coast. And word got out he was back, Nick says.

By this time, we'd been on the run sort of for five years looking over your shoulder. I think he was kind of getting tired and he wasn't being as careful as he was before.

There was still a major reward out for his arrest, and somebody informed the police... It's just a matter of time from there before they found out where he was staying.

And then one fateful morning in November, I remember the doorbell knocking about seven o'clock in the morning and my dad shouted out, Son, will you get that?

"So, I ran downstairs and opened the door and in came a deluge of policemen and that was that. It was the end of the party, unfortunately. And life changed for good.

Bruce was sentenced to 25 years in prison in 1969 but was released just a decade later. He died in February 2013 aged 81.

Tune into Episode 647 of Crime World to hear Nick as he shares his fathers extraordinary story and opens up about visiting him in prison, before listening to a snippet from the Fugitive! audiobook.

Crime World is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Soundcloud.
Kevin Ruane, from Ballybrit, tragically lost his life while living in Perth.

The family and friends of a Galway man who died in Australia this week have launched a fundraiser to bring him home.

Kevin Ruane, from Ballybrit, tragically lost his life while living in Perth.

Predeceased by his brother Adrian, grandad Gerald Ruane and grandmother Catherine ODonnell, he will be dearly missed by his parents John and Kathleen, sister Aisling, grandmother Maura Ruane, grandfather John ODonnell, and extended family.

A GoFundMe campaign to repatriate Kevin home to his grieving family was set up on Tuesday, with hundreds of people donating to the cause.

Almost 45,000 has been raised in the past 24 hours, quadrupling the target of 10,000.

It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kevin Ruane in Perth Australia, a much-loved family member, and loyal friend and colleague, fundraiser organiser Barbara Hickey wrote.

We are raising funds to assist with the costs associated with having Kevin brought back home to his devastated family.

She said that the goal is to relieve some of the financial burden on Kevins family and to assist with the cost of having his personal belongings brought home.

Additional funds raised will be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust and the Claddagh Association in Perth, which gives help and support to members of the Irish community in the region who find themselves in difficult circumstances.

Tributes are pouring in for the Galway native online from people at home and abroad.

One friend wrote: Devastated to learn of this. I got to know Kevin through a mutual friend and he instantly was just so nice and likeable. He would have a room in knots laughing without any effort. He was also a proper gentleman, could never do enough for you. Hes gone from the world far before his time, and its beyond heartbreaking that its happened.

Sending love to his mother, father and sister, and all of those who were fortunate enough to have Kevin as a friend.

A big hole has been left, but I hope Kevin has found peace.

Another penned: My condolences to Kevin s family. Kevin was truly awesome person, always had a smile on his face. So many fond memories. Rip Kev.

And another friend added: Deepest condolences to John, Kathleen and Aisling, on the passing of Kevin.

My heart aches for you as you navigate through the pain of losing your son and brother. His memory will forever be cherished, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved Kevin. Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs.

To make a donation or to find out more about the In Honour Kevin Ruane fundraiser, visit the GoFundMe page here.
Maebhe Gorman was diagnosed with MLD (Metachromatic Leukodystrophy), a rare genetic condition affecting the brain, in November.

The heartbroken parents of two-year-old Maebhe Gorman have paid tribute to their little girl following her death this week.

The toddler, from Ballinasloe in Co Galway, was diagnosed with MLD (Metachromatic Leukodystrophy), a rare genetic condition affecting the brain, in November.

She passed away peacefully on Monday, August 5, in the loving arms of her parents Veronica and John.

A notice on RIP.ie reads: It is with the heaviest hearts we share the sad news our beautiful, baby warrior, Queen Maebhe passed away peacefully on August 5, 2024, aged 2 years.

Maebhe was in the loving arms of her Mammy and Daddy, surrounded by her adoring family. We are broken.

Our brave Maebhe has lost her battle but she touched so many lives in her tiny life. We are grateful to everyone for everything over the last nine months.

Maebhe will be eternally missed by her Mammy Veronica, Daddy John, her big sister Tina, her grannies, grandads, aunties and uncles, cousins, and her huge circle of friends.

Maebhe's family would like to thank everybody for their support and prayers at this difficult time.

Maebhes funeral service will take place on Thursday, August 8, at 12pm in St Peters and Paul's Church, Ballymacward, followed by a burial in Killaan Cemetery.

Veronica and John Gorman have asked that anyone attending wears their brightest colours to the mass, which will be streamed online.

The family have asked that any donations be made to Laura Lynn Ireland's Children Hospice or the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation.

Maebhe appeared perfectly healthy when she was born, and it was only last year that her parents realised something was wrong as she wasnt hitting normal developmental milestones.

Maebhe was sent for an x-ray, and then to a physiotherapist, her aunt, Susan Gorman, told the Sunday World last year.

She was then referred to a neurologist, who noticed an issue with her reflexes, and ordered genetic tests. The result came back as MLD.

The disease causes a toxic build up, which attacks the melanin sheath of the nerves due to the lack of a protein, ultimately causing the nerves to die. Maebhes case was unique in having not one but two different faulty genes.

As long as children with MLD are in their mums womb theyre safe, but as soon as theyre born, they start to deteriorate, Susan said. Its a deterioration that sneaks up on you and punches you in the face.

Unlike other parts of Europe, Ireland doesnt screen for this condition, Susan explained back in May.

Across the EU, they screen for 40 conditions in newborns, but in Ireland, they test for just 10, of which MLD is not one, she said.

She and other members of Maebhes family are campaigning for the Irish Government to include MLD in the screening of all newborn children because if its caught at birth, a child can be treated with stem cell therapy and effectively saved.

Currently the only newborns tested for MLD in Ireland are the ones who have a sibling who has already died from it.

Research shows it can completely halt the disease.

We hope that her legacy will be that no other child ever has to go through this. Thats why were campaigning to have MLD tested at birth, Susan added.
Roisin Gormans Open Letter on trad wives

Id be annoyed about trad wives but Im too busy getting the dinner on.

The trend has been floating about for years, but came sharply into focus recently when Insta star Hannah Neeleman, the model-gorgeous, cow-milking, mother-of-eight behind Ballerina Farm, was the subject of a newspaper profile.

She doesnt call herself a trad wife, but her traditional lifestyle has got her lumped in with the TikTok brigade who are.

They cook everything from scratch, do everything around the house, dress like Doris Day and serve their man.

Theyre essentially Irish mammies with less shouting and a 1950s wardrobe. Were already rearing the kids, feeding the house, doing the laundry and hammering down the last sheets of galvanised on the byre roof. Sorry, I went a bit DUnbelievables there.

In a backlash from the brand of feminism that says we can have it all, but usually only if we do it all, the gals in gingham espouse submitting to and serving your husband, and God will probably be invoked somewhere.

The topic has over 300 million views on TikTok and the queen of the trads is Estee Williams, a beautiful dutiful wife with a cinched-in waist and an air of wide-eyed disbelief that anyone would object to her ultra-traditional message about serving her husband.

Think Marilyn Monroe as a Stepford Wife and youre in the right ballpark.

Estees previously shared the rules of her marriage, which include not leaving the house after dark by herself, for safety reasons you understand, always knowing where the other person is at all times, and not having any opposite-sex friendships. I dont think a woman needs to have a male best friend, she simpers.

Shes also insisted that serving and submitting to her man is her personal belief, but its not long before I like doing this becomes you should do it too.

I nearly spilled coffee down my joggers and sweatshirt when Estee implored us gals not to wear leggings, with the message fathers dont let your daughters dress like this. Its hard to know where to start with that sentiment, but we could begin with fathers and let and commence the screaming from there.

But shes a laugh a minute compared to Nara Smith, who slips into couture gowns or Little House on the Prairie frocks to cook everything from scratch for her three children and model, as in actual model, husband Lucky Blue. I cant eat a bacon sandwich without getting food down my cleavage, but Naras nailing it in evening wear.

She has also been lumped in with the trad wife tag whether she likes it or not, and its not hard to see why.

Her video about making hubby Coke from her store cupboard ingredients two weeks ago, in a sequined dress, got nearly four million likes on TikTok.

When the kids want a pizza she makes the dough, the tomato sauce and the mozzarella cheese from scratch. When they wanted a chocolate cereal for breakfast she knocked that up too.

We dont know if the children appreciate her culinary efforts, delivered in a strangely soporific whispering voiceover, but we can guess. I once tried rustling up healthy home-made fish fingers for my little brood. When I served them up, the kids looked at me pityingly and explained that fish fingers live in the freezer in a box labelled Birds Eye.

The trad wife advocates largely share the same attributes of being young and pretty, but their choice of lifestyle is being challenged by older women who know from experience what happens when your breadwinning man starts to fancy another gals gingham. Youre left with no qualifications, no job experience, no money, and no man.

I cant understand why anyone would find 24/7 submission desirable, but while getting my unladylike grey knackered knickers in a twist I read, without my husbands permission, the Central Statistics Office Life at Home survey from 2021. It was while the spuds were boiling.

The snapshot of 10,500 hetero couples showed women still do the bulk of household chores whether they work outside the home or not.

Two-thirds of women were responsible for household tasks compared to 38 per cent of men, and Ill guess, in an entirely unscientific and sexist fashion, the male role includes emptying the bin on the third time of asking and cutting the lawn a few times a year.

Im on my knees every week scrubbing the toilet and feeling your pain.

Name any domestic activity from medical appointments to kids activities and the responsibility will fall to women, regardless of whether theyre also running Google or curing cancer.

I vividly remember the snapshot of my full-time nurse mother with five children being asked for a yoghurt from the fridge by my perfectly lovely dad, who was sitting next to the fridge.

Its quietly horrifying to realise how many of us are trad wives, just without the TikTok following and the 1950s housewife cosplay.

Now, excuse me while I get my lippy on to fix the byre roof.
Ms Walsh (27), who was originally from Co Wicklow, was found dead in an apartment in Midleton, Co Cork, last Friday after emergency services found the building on fire

Family and friends at St Laurence O'Toole's Church, Roundwood, Co. Wicklow for the funeral of Daena Walsh. Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

The funeral cortege for Daena Walsh makes its way to the crematorium after funeral mass at St Laurence O'Toole's Church in Roundwood, Co Wicklow. Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

The remains of Daena Walsh are carried from the church. Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

A mother-of-two who was found fatally stabbed in a burning building in Co Cork last week has today been remembered as a wonderful sister and daughter, and an excellent and beautiful mother to her two boys who she adored greatly.

Daena Walsh (27), who was originally from Co Wicklow, was found dead in an apartment in Midleton last Friday after emergency services were called and found the building on fire.

Her 29-year-old partner Adam Corcoran with an address at John Barry House, Connolly Street in Midleton, Co Cork, has since been charged with her murder.

Ms Walsh had lain in repose at her family home in Varty Heights in Roundwood in Co Wicklow yesterday, and this morning a hearse brought her slowly to the local parish church, St Laurence OTooles, as her family and mourners walked behind.

Then the coffin bearing Daenas remains was carried into the church by her family as Amazing Grace was sung by a soloist.

Fr John Greene said mourners had gathered in sadness and sorrow, praying for Daena and for her love and kindness.

In his homily he said that what occurred to Daena, and the loss of her life, should not have happened.

No one should suffer like this. No one should die so tragically, as she did, he said.

In a eulogy to her sister, Callum Walsh said Daena was well known for her iconic hair colour and mad lipstick, even though she could be cheeky at times.

The remains of Daena Walsh are carried from the church. Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

She will always be our cheeky sister that will be forever cherished in our hearts. Daena was so down-to-earth and would help anyone with anything. It is truly tragic, he added, thanking the mourners for attending the funeral.

Daena, we will miss you forever, he concluded to applause.

During communion, the soloist sang Wind Beneath My Wings, and a hymn called The Prayer, which contains the lines I pray youll be our eyes, and watch us where we go, And help us to be wise, in times when we dont know. Let this be our prayer, as we go our way. Lead us to a place, guide us with your grace, to a place where well be safe.

The funeral cortege for Daena Walsh makes its way to the crematorium after funeral mass at St Laurence O'Toole's Church in Roundwood, Co Wicklow. Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Symbols brought to the altar to represent Ms Walsh life included her lipstick, perfume and make-up, and a set of gel nails to represent her love of beauty, and a can of energy drink, and a teddy bear holding a crescent moon with the words I love you to the moon and back stitched onto it with some golden stars beneath.

Family and friends at St Laurence O'Toole's Church, Roundwood, Co. Wicklow for the funeral of Daena Walsh. Photo: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Ms Walsh is survived by her sons Ezra and Kyson, mother Caroline, brothers Paul, Robbie, Callum and Noah, and wider circle of family, relatives and friends.

After the requiem mass, four white doves were released outside as mourners watched them take to the Co Wicklow skies and fly away, circling in the distance before flying home.

A cremation service later took place in McCrea's Cremation Chapel, Dublin Road, in Wicklow town.
Finn McGrath (10) from Dunaree, Laragh , Castleblayney was airlifted to hospital following the accident

Heartbreaking tributes are being paid to a national school pupil who died in a farming tragedy in County Monaghan at the weekend.

The HSA confirmed they are investigating a quad bike accident involving the young boy.

The child who has been named as Finn McGrath (10) from Dunaree, Laragh , Castleblayney was airlifted to hospital following the accident but passed away at Temple Street Hospital in Dublin on Saturday.

The school and Castleblayney communities had been praying for Finn after word spread that he was airlifted to hospital following an accident at the weekend. Locals are now rallying around Finns heartbroken parents and siblings in the tight-knit community.

Paying tribute, Lisadoon NS where Finn was a pupil wrote  deepest sympathy to Paul, Caroline, Jack, Ella Rose, Finns grandparents and all the Keenan and McGrath family on the loss of your beautiful Finn.

His bright smile and gentle nature will be greatly missed by all of us at Lisdoonan NS. May his soul rest in peace. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

The Lisadoon Development Association also paid tribute.

They wrote: The management and staff of Lisdoonan centre and shop are very sorry to hear of the untimely passing of Finn McGrath a beloved member of the community we are sending our heartfelt condolences to his parents Caroline and Paul and his siblings jack and

Ella rose grandparents Peadar and Rose kennan, James and Martina and extended Keenan and McGrath family May his little soul rest in peace.

Ballybay Mart wrote: "Sincere condolences to the McGrath and Keenan families on the tragic passing of Finn. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace.

Local GAA club Shercock GFC also paid tribute. Writing on social media they said Shercock GFC would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the McGrath and Keenan families on the sad and untimely passing of Finn. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace. Fly high little man. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.

The Health and Safety Authority confirmed they are investigating a quad bike accident involving the young boy.

The Lisdoonan National School pupil also leaves behind a brother and sister. At the request of the family, there will be no public wake.

The McGrath & Keenan families would like to thank you for your understanding and respect the privacy of the families, to afford them the space needed at this most difficult time.

Finns Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Thursday morning in St. Marys Church, Lisdoonan at 11am. Burial afterwards in adjoining Cemetery.
Stephen has been discharged nine times in four months despite showing symptoms of serious illness

Proud parents Colin and Sharon Heaney with Stephen on his graduation

An Armagh family has become so desperate for help for their son they released a video of him in the grip of mental illness.

Colin and Sharon Heaney say son Stephen has been discharged from Bluestone Unit in Craigavon Area Hospital nine times in four months despite showing symptoms of serious illness.

Hes also gone missing from the unit on several occasions.

In desperation the family shared Ring doorbell footage from a neighbour of their business graduate son walking in pyjamas during a downpour.

Police have informed them of Stephen walking into traffic in Banbridge, and videos of the 29-year-old clearly in the grip of mental illness have been shared on TikTok.

Bluestone Unit

The family believe at one point he walked the 22 miles from Craigavon to Banbridge and, on another occasion, he walked 29 miles from Banbridge to Belfast.

Despite suffering for years, he completed his degree and last year finished his Masters.

The worried parents say Stephens mental health declined dramatically when his diagnosis was changed.

The way he is when hes himself to the way he is now, you wouldnt recognise him, says dad Colin.

From he was about 20 or 21 hes had periods when he wasnt well and he was in Bluestone, but hes also had periods when hes had jobs and was able to do his degree and his Masters.

We would have family meetings with Bluestone and wed talk and come up with ideas about what was working. For the last eight years weve been happy with his treatment there.

Since he got his new diagnosis we feel they want him out of there.

A neighbours Ring doorbell camera captures Stephen leaving his home

A litany of admissions and discharges has seen Stephen admitted to the unit and then sent home within 24 hours.

They sent him home at 7.30pm with a nurse and didnt tell us. One of his neighbours rang us to say he was running around and the nurse was running around after him.

The way he is being treated is unfair and degrading when you know he is not well.

Earlier this month he was discharged from Bluestone and left sitting outside the unit with no shoes and no way of getting home before medical staff phoned police to remove him.

The police and A&E have shown him more compassion.

He has turned up at the police station in Belfast and we think he walked from Banbridge. He collapsed in the back of a police car, says Colin.

We are waiting for the police to come to the door and tell us our son is dead.

His parents fear that if Stephens mental health continues to decline, he may not recover.

He had been hearing things and his moods are up and down. He has been shouting and squealing about things and talking to himself. Hes wrecked his flat. He had 2000 in savings and he spent it in a week.

And were being told he doesnt need to be in hospital.

Stephen Heaney

The couple say they have been exhausted fighting to get the right treatment for their son and have asked for him to be treated at another mental health unit.

The Heaneys have now made an official complaint.

In a statement, the Southern Trust says its unable to comment on any individual patient. However, there has been significant ongoing contact between Trust staff and this patient and their family.

Our dedicated mental health staff are very experienced in professionally assessing people with complex conditions and offering intervention as required, based on clinical need.

We encourage any patient or family member with concerns about our services to contact our Service User Feedback team so that each concern or complaint can be fully investigated and responded to when appropriate and valid consent from the patient has been provided.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 7. Kyrgyzstan has introduced a temporary ban on the export of oil and petroleum products beyond the Eurasian Economic Union's (EAEU) territory by road, Trend reports.

According to a government decree, the ban excludes fuel oil and petroleum products classified under code 2710 of the EAEU's harmonized system, produced by Kyrgyzstans state-owned enterprise, Kyrgyzneftegaz. It also excludes AI-80 gasoline and heating oil, produced by domestic refineries, which are classified under the same code.

The decree will take effect fifteen days after its official publication.

The authorities of Kyrgyzstan first imposed a ban on exporting oil and petroleum products beyond the EAEU customs zone in March 2021. This decision was made to stabilize oil and petroleum product prices on the domestic market.
Jon and Carie Hallford have been ordered to pay 950 million dollars (870 million) to the victims relatives in a civil case

The US funeral home owners who allegedly stored 190 decaying bodies and sent grieving families fake ashes have been ordered by a judge to pay 950 million dollars (870 million) to the victims relatives in a civil case.

The judgment is unlikely to be paid out since the owners, Jon and Carie Hallford, have been in financial trouble for years.

They also face hundreds of criminal charges in separate state and federal cases, including abuse of a corpse, and allegations they took 130,000 dollars from families for cremations and burials they never provided.

That leaves the nearly one billion dollar sum largely symbolic of the emotional devastation wreaked on family members who learned the remains of their mothers, fathers or children were not in the ashes they ceremonially spread or clutched tight but were instead decaying in a bug-infested building.

A hearse and debris sit behind the Return to Nature Funeral Home in Penrose, Colorado (Jerilee Bennett/AP)

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, Return to Nature, 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.

If nothing else, Ms Page said, this judgment will bring more understanding to the case.

Im hoping itll make people go, Oh, wow, this isnt just about ashes, she said, adding that far more people are impacted than just those listed in the complaint.

While the victims and the class actions lawyer, 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.

That, too, went unfulfilled.

Jon Hallford, who is in custody, and Carie Hallford, who is out on bail, did not acknowledge the civil case or show up to hearings, Mr Swan said.

I would have preferred that they participate, 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, said Mr Swan.

To Ms Page, it felt like another slap in the face from the Hallfords.

The civil case lists over 100 family members but has been left open in case other victims come forward since 190 total bodies were discovered in the funeral homes facility in Penrose, southwest of the companys office in Colorado Springs.

Jon Hallford is being represented by the public defenders office, which does not comment on cases.

Carie Hallfords lawyer, Michael Stuzynski, was not immediately available for comment.

The case helped spur Colorado legsilators to pass sweeping regulations on the funeral home industry in the state, which previously had the laxest rules in the nation.
The couple are set to get married in Kristins home county on Friday, August 9, surrounded by friends and family.

Aidan O'Shea and Kristin McKenzie Vass have arrived in Kerry for their wedding

Mayo GAA star Aidan OShea and his bride-to-be Kristin McKenzie Vass have arrived in Kerry for their wedding.

The couple are set to get married in Kristins home county on Friday, August 9, surrounded by friends and family.

Kristin, a model and business consultant at Grant Thornton, took to her Instagram Stories this week to announce that wedding bells were on the way, kicking off her week with facial treatments at Face Aesthetic Clinic in Castlebar, Mayo, to make sure her skin is glowing for her big day.

She then shared a clip of her and her fiance in the car, which was full to the brim, accompanied by Diana Ross song Im Coming Out as they finally headed off to their wedding venue.

Aidan O'Shea and Kristin McKenzie Vass have arrived in Kerry for their wedding

Kerry here we come, she wrote, adding bride and groom emojis.

And Kristins pals made sure to spoil her ahead of her nuptials as she shared a video of a bouquet of flowers and a wedding of the year gift bag left on her bed.

The goodies lay beside a personalised balloon with the words Kristin and Aidans wedding day  9th August 2024 printed on the front while the Kerry and Mayo crests were branded on the back.

Aidan and Kristin announced their engagement on Instagram last summer with a sweet photo outside Ashford Castle in Cong, Co Mayo.

Kristin flaunted her new diamond for the snap as she wrote: Its happening. Big fat YES from me @aidoxi #engaged".

According to Aidan, his other half didnt suspect a thing when it came to him getting down on one knee.

"Kristin told me that I didnt give it away and that I didnt look too nervous about it, he told RSVP Live.

"I wanted to make sure that Kristin didnt cop the photographer I hired to capture the moment before I asked the question. That was my only concern, so I had to time it nicely."

Aidan also opened up about how he and Kristin met randomly six years ago.

"We met randomly in Dublin in 2017. We kept in touch after that and then she moved to London.

"I visited her a few times and then one thing led to another. Thats how it panned out for us and were still together so something must have gone right."

Back in May, Kristin celebrated her last rodeo with a boat party in Barcelona to celebrate her Spanish hen.

The bride-to-be shared photos of the sun-blissed session on the boat out at sea where she appeared all in white and held aloft by a burly sailor.

In earlier pictures the girls, including fellow GAA wife Orla Lorenza, could be seen hanging at the airport with Kirstin embracing the bridal look in a head-to-toe white ensemble.
New Zealand has quietly signed up to help the United States in its new strategy to expand the weapons-making defence industrial base across the Indo-Pacific region.

The government endorsed a 'Statement of Principles for Indo-Pacific Defense Industrial Base Collaboration' in June.

The US says this is part of unlocking "new sources of supply" of weapons, and integrating other countries' defence industrial bases with its own.

"This will increase the purchasing power of the US defence budget," a top US diplomat said a few weeks ago.

Australia is poised to begin making guided missiles for the US as part of the regional push.

US military commanders have repeatedly told Congress about China moving fast in this area, and their own need to "go fast to help prepare us for conflict" in the Indo-Pacific.

Defence Minister Judith Collins mentioned New Zealand backing the statement in a speech, but it went otherwise unannounced.

"Our commitment to cooperation on particular issues where we have shared interests is also why New Zealand is pleased to endorse the Statement of Principles to strengthen the region's defence industrial base," she told an Asian defence summit in June.

The statement commits New Zealand to pursue collaboration to strengthen "defence industrial resilience", improve information sharing and reduce barriers, and also get industry to take part.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin told the same summit alongside Judith: "We're breaking down national barriers and better integrating our defence industries."

This strategy began at the Pentagon two years ago, when it "uncovered" gaps in being able to rapidly speed up military production.

US President Joe Biden issued orders to fix the gaps urgently, and bringing allies on board has been a primary strategy since then.

"The DoD [Department of Defence] is committed to strengthening the industrial base and establishing a network of domestic and allied supply chains to meet national security needs," says official reports.

A Biden order in February 2022 put a 12-month focus on developing hypersonic weapons technology. Earlier this year, Judith referred to hypersonics as something New Zealand could help with.

Existing defence arrangements with NATO, AUKUS and the NTIB are an explicit focus.

New Zealand was inserted into the National Technology and Industrial Base (NTIB) military trade pact - in late 2022 by a unilateral vote of Congress, just a few months after Biden's 'fix-the-gaps' orders.

Being in the NTIB reduces the legal hurdles to the US sharing advanced military technology with New Zealand.

The two countries already have a similar arrangement around space launches, another of the Pentagon's recent top priorities.

New Zealand is also considering joining Aukus Pillar two, a partnership for sharing military technology.

These various multinational moves coincide with a more aggressive stance at the New Zealand Defence Force since mid-2023.

Asked about its increasing engagement in high-tech war-games with the US, the NZDF told RNZ last week that government strategy "asks the NZDF to be better prepared for combat operations" because the region was more unstable.

The Indo-Pacific statement followed the release in January of a new US National Defence Industrial Strategy.

The new strategy "calls to incorporate allies and partners at every stage of defence planning".

It says the capabilities of Indo-Pacific governments and private companies needed to be matched to the US military's "sustainment needs".

It was "imperative" to the US national interest to set up "multiple, redundant production lines across a consortium of like-minded nations" to supply warfighters, the strategy says.

This could include sweetheart financing - the Pentagon has been pushing Congress to offer better financing to allies to buy weapons systems, and to ease restrictions on military technology transfer, described by commanders as the "largest hurdle preventing greater defense co-production and co-development".

Australia - New Zealand's top ally - is leading the way, with specials deals to enable it to start building Lockheed Martin missiles for the first time next year, under a $5 billion plan.

New Zealand has half the defence budget per capita, but the NZDF's new defence capability plan for 2024-40, which has gone to Judith for approval, is certain to stress the need to acquire technology that can work in with Australian and US technology.

RNZ has asked the government what part New Zealand will play now it has backed the statement, which commits to setting up a 'Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience', to exchange lessons learned and best practices.

A new regional framework for repairing US military equipment is being set up across five unnamed countries, but does not appear to include New Zealand.

On the statement's stated aim of reducing barriers, RNZ has asked Judith if this extended to regulatory reform of the aerospace/space industry, since this aim was mentioned in official documents.

On Aukus Pillar Two, the OIA briefings quoted Judith saying: "We are looking at how New Zealand could participate in Pillar Two, particularly in those areas where New Zealand could make a material contribution."

Judith adopted similar terms as in the US official reports, referring to "co-sustainment" through the regional repair framework, "harmonised regulatory systems, and co-development and joint procurement".

"I welcome initiatives aimed at increasing Defence supply chain resilience, including by reducing barriers to cooperation and market access," she told RNZ in a statement this week.

"As a next step, officials are engaging with counterparts from other Indo-Pacific nations on how the Statement of Principles will be operationalised. Officials will provide me with advice on options for implementation," Judith says.

The US Embassy says the regional framework was a cooperative and coordinated approach that "reduces operational risk, enhances readiness, and increases capabilities for the US and its partners", whether to support Ukraine or help in disasters.

"The framework positively effects deterrence as a solution to rapidly changing global threats," it told RNZ. It included a US commitment to adapt and evolve.

The Labour Party's foreign affairs spokesperson David Parker says it was likely the defence force had been having talks with Australia, the US and others on getting hold of defence technology and hardware and inter-operability.

"New Zealand is a small player when it comes to military technology, and we generally buy it in. We are not, and are unlikely to become, a substantial producer of arms," David says in a statement.

Interoperability was a longstanding requirement to stay viable.

"Nevertheless we believe the most important issue right now is not the origin of the hardware but the direction of our foreign policy, and how New Zealand navigates the increasingly tense relationship between China and the US."

-RNZ
A Coromandel surfer is calling on local authorities to share a percentage of the parking fees collected at a tourist hotspot.

Long-time Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service committee member Gary Hinds was prompted to speak when it was revealed paid parking at the coastal community had generated close to $1.5 million in the 10 years since it was introduced.

Since the fees were first put in, Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service has been asking for a percentage of the funds to help keep people safe when coming to the beach, Gary says.

We have been back to ask, in more recent times, to ask for up to 25 per cent of the revenue that Thames-Coromandel District Council are attracting to the beach by advertising the location, to help cover emergency gear needed to run the service.

To date, we have heard every reason why this cant happen, but they keep attracting more and more people, while not putting funds into a volunteer organisation that has to find money to then keep everyone safe.

Mercury Bay Community Board member and Thames-Coromandel councillor John Grant says he was aware of the situation and sympathetic to the services appeals.

Grant says funding was limited when the council was trying to maintain low rates in a difficult economic environment.

He says there were also other first-responder organisations to consider in terms of funding, including ambulance and air rescue services.

They really need to go back to their own organisations for funding, he says.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand says in a statement that it had nothing to add.

Gary, 56, started surfing at Hot Water Beach aged 36, joining his children in the waves.

An aerial view of the Hot Water Beach pay-and-display parking. Photo: NZME.

A third-generation farmer in the surrounding area, Gary says he had spoken with multiple council staffers over the years, who had been very vague.

Ive been going back to them every couple of years, they come up with all the different excuses.

He says the service needed a percentage of the parking fees to help pay for equipment.

Its a shoestring budget, we replace things when we can. Hot Water Beach is a dangerous location and we had to fight to build the club, we had to fight tooth and nail to get it.

Figures released to the Hauraki Coromandel Post last month showed combined paid parking revenue at two locations, one on Pye Pl and the other on Hot Water Beach Rd, of $1,479,549 between 2013 and 2024.

A Thames-Coromandel District Council spokesman at the time confirmed revenue from the parking charges contributed to maintaining and improving the car parking facilities and other tourism-related infrastructure in the vicinity, such as toilets, as well as the repayment of loans taken out for capital works related to tourism infrastructure in the area.

Parking fees at the tourist hotspot. Photo: NZME.

A 2013 report to the Mercury Bay Community Board, outlining the adoption of paid parking at Hot Water Beach, showed other funding options were impractical or potentially unaffordable while recent government directions indicated that the use of development contributions as a funding source was likely to be restricted in the future.

The objective of the pay-and-display system was to generate alternative income for the construction and maintenance of council infrastructure that was impacted by tourism, within the Mercury Bay area.

The parking payment method was on site at an automated kiosk, which accepted cash or credit cards. Fees were set at $2 per hour or $15 per eight-hour day, but a schedule of fees showed those prices had increased to $4.40 per hour and $28 per eight-hour day in the 2024/25 year.

The proposal to introduce paid parking at the beach had attracted 74 submissions, with the council confirming the project would proceed in April 2013.

In 2021, petitioners claimed victory after the community board stopped a proposal that would have left no free public parking at Hot Water Beach.

The Mercury Bay Community Board voted against parking charges at the Domain Rd carpark  the last of the free council carparks at Hot Water Beach.

In June, the council submitted on the Governments proposed changes to the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy, calling for a maximum $100 fee for international visitors.

It argued the levy should be raised as the Coromandel had high visitation with a low ratepayer base, and that it needed more support to build and maintain tourism infrastructure such as toilets, campervan dump stations, and parking areas  without a significant ratepayer burden.
Seven iwi who are battling to save native forests surrounding Rotoruas lakes from the brink of environmental collapse due to wallaby damage are being given $30,000 by Bay Trust to progress their pest control efforts.

The Te Arawa Wallaby Control Kahui is an umbrella group whose members are fed up with the lack of government funding and resources available to kill pests, especially wallabies.

A national containment strategy is in place to work on the perimeter of the wallaby infestation and stop any further spread. But an estimated one million wallabies that live in and around Rotoruas lakes are being left relatively unchecked.

Kahui Chair Cyrus Hingston says ground zero is around lakes Okareka, Okataina, Tarawera, Rotoiti, and the Whakarewarewa Forest.

Wallabies were largely controlled up until the late 1990s but when 1080 poison became too controversial to use, the population quickly took hold in the Bay of Plenty with devastating consequences.

Kahu holding Wallaby. Photo supplied.

Deer and pigs eat all the big stuff in the forest to a certain height, and then possums, rats and stoats do what they do. Wallabies basically mow down everything thats rejuvenating.

So theres no rejuvenation in the forest and in some places it is close to environmental collapse.

Weve lost a lot of the birdlife, and when you walk through those areas you can see through the forest because theres little understory left.

With the forest being eaten away, we are also seeing more slips happening with the increased rainfall. And that then affects the water quality of the lakes so theres a huge knock on effect.

Cyrus says the situation is particularly galling for iwi who have previously gifted land to the Crown for scenic reserves around the lakes, yet the government cannot protect that land and carry out effective pest control themselves.

DOC dont have the resources to address the issue. We want to be part of the solution, which is why weve set up our own pest control programme.

The pest control team on the Whakapoungakau Block. Photo supplied.

Our area is supposed to be this jewel of New Zealands tourism crown. But our forests are being eaten to death.

Were waging the war and trying to keep control of these pest numbers to protect our forests.

We cant just throw our hands in the air and say its all too hard. Youve just got to get out there and do something before its too late.

BayTrust has granted $30,000 towards operational costs for the Te Arawa Kahuis pest control team this year. The money will go towards wages and to buy equipment.

This grant is very welcome. It helps us buy more traps, bait, trail cameras, firearms, GPS locators basically the equipment necessary to do the job effectively.

Any funding we get, we are most grateful for. The amount of work, effort and community support we have received to get the team trained up to where they are now in such a short time has been amazing.

Wallaby pit traps designed and made by the pest control team. Photo supplied.

We will do whatever it takes to find ways to continue this important work.

BayTrust CEO Alastair Rhodes says kaitiakitanga of the Bay of Plentys natural resources is a key funding priority and the commitment from local iwi to step in and try to control the wallaby population was admirable.

It is devasting to realise this beautiful natural habitat is being destroyed simply because there isnt enough money and pest control resources to go around.

Te Arawa Wallaby Control Kahui have trained their team from scratch and built their own capability in this space, and BayTrust is very pleased to financially support their efforts.
Two Bay of Plenty food rescue organisations, Chrome Collective and Good Neighbour, have received a boost with a $10,000 donation from Foodstuffs North Island.

Foodstuffs North Island is the 102 year old co-operative behind the North Islands locally owned and operated New World, PAKnSAVE and Four Square stores, helping each organisation to continue providing much needed support to the local community.

Willa Hand, Head of Membership Experience for Foodstuffs North Island says the donation is part of the co-operatives ongoing commitment to be HereforNZ, ensuring New Zealanders have access to healthy and affordable food.

Food rescue organisations are an important partner for us, helping redirect food to the community that would otherwise have gone to landfill, she says.

Supporting our local communities is really important and the teams at Chrome Collective and Good Neighbour are doing awesome mahi.

Our local PAKnSAVE and New World stores already partner with them, but we wanted to give an extra boost towards the important work they provide to the community.

Chrome Collective is a Katikati-based charity that offers support and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Following the challenges of the pandemic, the Chrome Collective team identified a growing need for food support in Katikati, and now run a food rescue to ensure food that might otherwise be thrown away reaches those who need it most.

Funding has become increasingly hard to access, and this grant from Foodstuffs North Island has come precisely at the right time," Chrome Collective manager, Shelley Robinson.

This money will go towards our operational costs and will help keep our food rescue running.

Our organisation serves a dual purpose  every item we rescue makes a difference for families, but it also helps the environment by preventing items going to landfill.

Were extremely grateful to Foodstuffs for helping us carry on with this important work.

Good Neighbour is another local charity and community support organisation in the Bay of Plenty that has expanded into food rescue in recent years.

Through partnerships with local businesses, they collect 2.6 tonnes of food per week, which gets distributed to over 6,500 people who are struggling to put food on the table.

Food insecurity is one of the biggest issues facing Kiwis in 2024, and we really appreciate the ongoing support of Foodstuffs," says Good Neighbour general manager, Renee Hanna.

This grant will help us expand our storage capacity, including adding shelving, tables, equipment, and chillers. We are collecting more food than ever and have been struggling with space limitations.

Were in a recession and the level of need is only going up so its great were now able to invest in our operations to ensure we can meet the growing level of demand.

The support from Foodstuffs North Island and their Here for NZ fund is aimed at reducing food waste and emissions as well as redirecting surplus food for communities in need.

This year, Foodstuffs North Island has provided donations to 14 food rescue organisations, totaling $140,000.

For more information, visit Here for NZ (https://www.foodstuffs.co.nz/here-for-nz)
Jumping into Wellington Harbour in winter might not seem like a smart idea  but dont let local Special Olympics athletes and their supporters in Police and elsewhere hear you say that.

On a brilliant windless, sunny Wellington Saturday morning, athletes bravely took a Polar Plunge in the 9.25-degree water.

Joining them were supporters from Police, New Zealand Defence Force, Fire and Emergency, the National Emergency Management Agency, Wellington Hospital and Wellington Free Ambulance staff.

The event at Freyberg Beach, Oriental Bay, aimed to raise awareness across New Zealand for Special Olympics athletes with learning and intellectual disabilities.

Participants in a variety of costumes and operational uniforms raced into the sea. Some raced right back out and others sat in the water for up to a minute as they were sponsored to do, to the delight of onlookers.

Some raced right back out and others sat in the water for up to a minute as they were sponsored to do, to the delight of onlookers. Photo supplied.

Police organiser Senior Sergeant Andrzej Kowalczyk says it went more than swimmingly. We were absolutely blown away by the 182 entrants who turned up to plunge.

Its been awesome to be able to support the Special Olympics. Law enforcement staff from both Central District and Wellington District are proud to support the athletes.

A big shout-out to Surf Life Saving New Zealand, the Rapid Relief Team and Central Demolition for their support at the event also.

He says staff who braved the cold had a great time  and ones that didnt plunge want to come back and do it next year.

Some of the constabularly staff and Police employees who were among the 182 entrants who turned up to plunge. Photo supplied.

They understand that these events and lending our support is about helping a community of courageous athletes, he says.

The Police Wellington launch Lady Liz moored off the beach, and Wellington District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell was among those who plunged off its deck.

The event was timed to coincide with Polar Plunges in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland and West Australia, with police from across Oceania supporting their athletes on the same day  although, says Andrzej our Aussie counterparts plunge being less polar and more pleasant, I am guessing.

On a brilliant windless, sunny Wellington Saturday morning, athletes bravely took a Polar Plunge in the 9.25-degree water. Photo supplied.

Australian and New Zealand raised a combined $272,000. Wellington alone so far has raised $26,000 and counting.

Special Olympics New Zealand Chief Executive Fran Scholey thanked Police staff who took part.

The support of New Zealand Police is hugely valued and this in turn helps the Special Olympics Programme continue to provide opportunities for an inclusive New Zealand," she says. "It was awesome to see so many people taking part.

It was a fantastic morning and we are so thrilled that so many took part for such a good cause. People can still donate for the event, even if they didnt swim."

Special Olympian Connor Mccarthy and Special Olympics CEO Fran Scholey joined Corrie Parnell in jumping off the Lady Liz. Photo supplied.

The money raised will go directly toward helping Special Olympics athletes.

Andrzej says staff can continue supporting Special Olympics  without freezing  through the Law Enforcement Torch Run, a Police-run charity.

Globally more than 90,000 police professionals and supporters across 46 countries participate in Law Enforcement Torch Runs. The Polar Plunge is a subset fund raiser for this community.
One person is facing assault charges in relation to the death of another person in Paengaroa last month.

Police were called to a property on Showground Rd in the evening of July 24.

At the time, officers in boiler suits were seen examining a property where a tent had been erected.

Two weeks since the death, police say they are still piecing together what happened at the Western Bay of Plenty address.

In a statement to SunLive this morning, police say a 47-year-od man has been charged with assault in relation to the incident.

The man is due to appear in Tauranga District Court today.

Police are still investigating the full circumstances surrounding the death.
A special information session, aimed at helping parents and whanau of teens struggling to decide what to do when they leave school, runs today from 4-8pm at the Canvas Careers Expo, at Mercury Baypark Arena.

The session is designed for parents and teenagers to attend together to help in their decision-making.

More than 60 tertiary and training providers alongside key business representatives are in attendance at the regions largest careers expo which runs today and tomorrow.

Priority Ones Instep manager, Vee de Koster, says this afternoons session is perfect for parents of teens who still dont know what to do when they leave school.

It can be so stressful when you have a teen in your house who cant decide what is the right career or training path, or maybe they have an idea but need more information.

Even if they are attending as part of a school trip today or tomorrow, this afternoons session is a great chance for parents and whanau to bring their teen back to the expo and for them to work out their future together.

The Rotary Club of Tauranga organiser, Sue Boyne, says one of the key benefits of attending the expo is the connections teens can make with industry leaders from across the region.

Teens can come along and talk directly with an actual staff member from a business. It allows them to get a real insight into what an average day or career looks like in that industry sector.

Making a connection and getting a business card could open some doors for them in their future and make their steps into a career easier.

Hosted by Priority One and The Rotary Club of Tauranga, the Canvas Careers Expo features an exciting mix of employers and training providers on site ready to talk about their work sector or tertiary training opportunity.



The Canvas Careers Expo gives people a chance to see what sort of career they would like to pursue.

Exhibitors this year include universities and vocational training providers from across New Zealand, as well as businesses and industries across the innovation sector, engineering, law, New Zealand Defence Force, Maori business, building and construction, the kiwifruit sector, health and beauty, tourism, fishing and infrastructure sectors.

Its the perfect environment to get informed, get inspired and make job and career decisions, says Sue.

The expo is also about showcasing the diverse and exciting career opportunities right here in the Bay.

Tauranga is New Zealands fastest growing region and with that brings more job opportunities and the need for people with skills to support that growth, says Vee.

The expo is a great place to get a feel for whats on offer here and to understand the yet-to-be-discovered prospects available for job seekers.

Free to attend, the Canvas Careers Expo runs from 9am-2pm and 4pm-8pm today (August 8) and 9am-2pm tomorrow.

Go to www.canvascareers.co.nz
Mijas town hall issues new regulation for protection of the donkeys in response to complaints After a video of a donkey struggling to get up went viral on social media, the council has said that the animals are all in good condition, but has issued a bylaw that reduces the service in situations of weather warnings

Lorena Cadiz Wednesday, 7 August 2024, 13:29 | Updated 13:38h. Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Since the start of the extreme temperatures, there have been numerous complaints circulating on social media about the state of the donkeys in the municipality, which have been forwarded to Mijas town hall. A video shared in the last few hours showing the fall of a donkey taxi while passing through one of the streets of the town, as well as the difficulty of the animal to get back on its feet, has been the straw that broke the camel's back.

"We are in 2024, not in the Middle Ages, something has to be done for the donkeys in Mijas." "The animals have been without food and water since the morning and the town hall does nothing about it. I have been living in Mijas for twenty years and it is about time they listened to us." These are some of the comments that can be read at the moment on the social networks. There are also users who claim that some of them collapse due to the high temperatures, without the workers doing anything about it.

The town hall is aware of all these complaints and recognises that in summer there is increased concern about the donkeys, especially "from non-resident foreigners", who are "unaware" of the situation, according to the councillor for Animal Welfare, Marco Cortes. He pointed out that the specific case of the donkey on the ground in the video was "an unfortunate incident, a slip in the street when they were going to the stables." He assured that the animals are checked every year and that their veterinary reports are in order.

Zoom

He also said that in recent times the number of drinking troughs has increased and the ropes that hold them in place have been lengthened to give them more space. "A lot of things are said that are not true because of ignorance. Most donkeys don't go out more than once a day," he said.

New side

Despite these considerations, however, the town hall has issued a new regulation this Tuesday, reducing the donkey taxi and horse-drawn carriage service in order to protect the health and wellbeing of both the drivers and the animals themselves.

Taking into account the laws that regulate this service, published in February 2012 in the BOP, and which states that the timetables may be modified, the law establishes that in orange or red warning situations issued by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) they should not provide the service at all.

When the notice is yellow, the service shall not operate between 2pm and 6pm.

"The situation we are going through with constant alerts for high temperatures made the existence of this regulation, on which the council has been working for some time, very necessary. Health must come first and what we are looking for with this new regulation is to guarantee the wellbeing of the wokers as well as the animals," said Cortes.

In addition, the bylaw includes a series of recommendations contained in the guide for good practice for horse-drawn carriages published by the Spanish Veterinary Association which, among other advice, compiles a series of good practices related to resting, equipment, stables and care of the animals.

This notice is already published on the municipal notice board and is therefore in force and will remain so until further notice.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, August 7. Turkmenistan has enacted a new decree banning individuals under the age of 18 from participating in cotton harvesting, Trend reports.

The decree of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection expands the list of prohibited jobs for minors to include "cotton picker" and "cotton grower," amending regulations set forth in 2018.

The updated decree has been officially registered with the Ministry of Justice. The Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection will oversee its implementation.

In a related development, Turkmenistan's government and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have earlier agreed on a "roadmap" for 20242025.

The roadmap outlines steps to eliminate forced labor, both adult and child, during cotton harvesting. It includes provisions for addressing complaints of coercion or extortion and establishes minimum wage standards for workers if manual harvesting is necessary.
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Kevin Hart is returning to Upstate New York on his new tour dates.

The superstar comedian and actor added more shows to his Acting My Age tour, including a Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, performance at Sheas Performing Arts Center in Buffalo. No opening act has been named for the event, which begins at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets go on sale Friday, Aug. 9, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster. Fans may also want to check resellers like VividSeats, StubHub, TicketNetwork or SeatGeek for tickets.

Hart, 45, is an Emmy- and Grammy-nominated comedian and actor who has released multiple stand-up specials, including 2011s Laugh at My Pain, 2016s What Now? and 2020s Zero F--ks Given. He became the youngest person to receive the Mark Twain Prize For American Humor at the Kennedy Center earlier this year.

His TV and film credits also include Jumanji: The Next Level, Central Intelligence, Think Like a Man, Ride Along, Fatherhood, The Secret Life of Pets, Celebrity Game Face, Die Hart, Hart to Heart, and The Wedding Ringer, directed by Liverpool-based American High founder Jeremy Garelick. Hart also produced American Highs most recently released film, Prom Dates.

Hart came to Poughkeepsie last month on his earlier Acting My Age tour dates, which he said he aimed for a more intimate environment to connect with the audience and feed off their energy and laughter.

According to the event website, the Buffalo show will be a phone-free experience. Use of phones, smart watches and accessories, will not be permitted in the performance space.

Upon arrival at the venue, all phones, smart watches and accessories will be secured in individual Yondr pouches that will be opened at the end of the event. Guests maintain possession of their devices at all times, and can access them throughout the event only in designated Phone Use Areas within the venue. All devices will be re-secured in Yondr pouches before returning to the performance space, an event description said. Anyone seen using a device (phone, smart watch or accessories) during the performance will be escorted out of the venue.
Each year, the Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways (GSNYPENN) Councils charter organization, Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA), awards one member of the Gold Award Girl Scout Class from each of its 111 councils nationwide a special scholarship for projects that demonstrate extraordinary leadership to drive lasting change in the world.

Gold Award Girl Scout Olivia Barnhart of Manlius, N.Y., is the councils 2024 recipient of the Gold Award Scholarship for her outstanding community-based project, Informing and Educating My Community on Mental Health and the Resources Available.

Olivia, a June 2024 graduate of Fayetteville-Manlius High School, was awarded $5,000 to help defray her college costs.

Thirteen years in Girl Scouts has shown me how to embody empathy, contribute to the greater good of the world and maintain a strong work ethic, said Olivia.

Her Gold Award project addressed the stigma around mental health and the lack of knowledge of mental health services in her community by making support materials and resources more obtainable. She worked closely with her Gold Award project advisor William DeSantis, a mental health educator through Contact Community Services at F-M Schools. Her target audience was middle-high school students and families in her school district and the wider community.



Olivia created a pamphlet with healthy ways for students to cope with stress, and an online document offering mental health resources available on her school districts website and through Onondaga County.

Olivia made her materials accessible to the community by tabling at school events including freshman parent orientation night and the high schools open house and activities fair. To help reduce peer pressure and further de-stigmatize mental health, she also distributed Pura Vida mental health awareness bracelets and had honest discussions with her peers and fellow students.

Olivia Barnhart, a 2024 Fayetteville-Manlius graduate, received $5,000 and national accolades for her Girl Scout Gold Award project on community mental health.ourtesy of Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways

Through my Gold Award project, my leadership, communication and multitasking abilities strengthened, Olivia said. Girl Scouts has prepared me for the next chapter of my life by shaping me into the person I am today and allowing me to build lifelong connections Ill rely on moving forward.

The Gold Award is one of the highest honors our Girl Scouts can achieve, through which they address issues that todays teenagers feel are most prevalent in our world, says GSNYPENN CEO Julie Dale. We are incredibly proud of Olivia and her accomplishments.

Girl Scouts who earn the Gold Award find meaningful ways to address some of the most pressing issues facing their communities, act on issues they are passionate about and discover they have the power to create the future they want.

Less than six percent of Girl Scout Seniors (grades 9-10) and Ambassadors (grades 11-12) earn the Gold Award. Above all else, the achievement exemplifies to Girl Scouts the difference one person can make and how dreaming big can effect change.

Nationally, GSUSA recognized close to 3,000 members of the 2024 Gold Award Girl Scout Class who contributed more than a quarter of a million hours and invested over $1.6M toward creating take action projects with long-term solutions to community issues theyre passionate about including education, childrens issues, health, environment and sustainability, life skills and more.

To learn more about the Gold Award and GSUSAs 2024 Gold Award Girl Scout Scholarship recipients, including Olivia, visit girlscouts.org/goldawardclass.
This article has been updated to correctly identify the highest level of education Latinos in California have obtained, per Latino Data Hub

A school counselor once told California State Assembly Member Blanca Rubio, a Democrat from Baldwin Park, not to bother going to college because she would only get pregnant.

If I had allowed that counselor to decide that for me, I wouldve had no opportunities. Their expectations of Latinas then were to get married, have children and be at home, Rubio said from her office in the California State Capitol. The opportunities for us were not given, they were taken. I had to fight for everything I have now.

Rubio, a previously undocumented immigrant from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, has earned an associate of arts degree, a bachelors degree in business and a masters degree in education  and now works at the California State Assembly. Rubio defied stereotypes imposed on Latinos, who are the largest minority group in California. Rubio hopes her story will inspire a new generation of young Latinos wanting to make their mark in the world.

Latino youth make up more than half of public school attendance in California. Still, they have lower graduation rates and lower test scores and are more segregated compared to their classmates, according to EdSource . Only 26 percent of Latinos in the state have attended some college or received an associates degree  with 15 percent having a bachelors degree or higher  but 93 percent participate in the labor force, according to the Latino Data Hub.

Every year, about 98,000 undocumented students graduate from high school across the country. Only 10 percent or less enroll in postsecondary institutions, according to data from TheDream.US , a nationwide college and career success program for undocumented immigrant youth that operates in more than 20 states.

The Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy temporarily delays deportation for some undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children. But its impact is waning. According to an analysis by the nonprofit FWD.US , only one-fifth of last years undocumented graduating high school class were eligible for these protections. By 2025, no undocumented youth will be eligible for the program because it requires people to have been in the United States since 2007.

Still, Latinos of all statuses are expected to continue being a large labor force in the country and community leaders say access to education and mentors could elevate them to governmental, entrepreneurship or leadership positions.

I pride myself in engaging with young women, mentoring them and telling them that theres so much more, Rubio said. Im amazing. Im fabulous in my own right, but I want them to be 10 times better.

The inspiration can also come from across the border. After Mexico elected its first woman president in early June, the Consulate of Mexico in Sacramento saw a spike from 40 to 223 applicants for its $2,000 Cien Amigos scholarship.

Maria Esther Bolio, the Consul for Community and Cultural Affairs, attributes this increase to young Latinos recognizing that they can succeed through education.

The high volume of new applications may be due to parents participating and encouraging their children to pursue a college education.

Family is very important, Bolio said. They are the ones that are very interested, they want their children to continue with their studies.

What support and resources are available for Latino families?

Family involvement is the leading motto of the Parent Institute for Quality Education ( PIQE) . This nonprofit organization  based in California and 14 other states  informs Latino parents about opportunities for their children to access higher education and overcome their hardships.

Olivia Orreola, a previous participant of PIQE, wanted to spread this information and joined the project as an instructor. Orreolas daughter graduated from California State University with $16,000 in scholarships.

People think the obstacle is money, but thats not true. In reality, when taking these classes, I realized that the only obstacle is yourself and thats what Ive passed on to my children, Orreola said in Spanish.

Immigrant parents may not have the resources or support to get their children through college or even know what questions to ask to become informed. This is one of the most common issues impacting the community.

About 5.4 million Latino students lack access to equitable education, according to statistics from Latinos for Education .

Rubio, who was a school teacher for sixteen years, noted the importance of parent involvement in childrens education and Latinos growth toward their goals. She said people should be ready for the future of Latinos and what they will accomplish.

People can do whatever it is that they want, regardless of immigration status or socioeconomic status, Rubio said. Were here, this is the best country in the world. And if we dont take advantage of it, why did we come here?

Sarah Ochoa Rodriguez is a reporter with JCal, a collaboration between The Asian American Journalists Association and CalMatters to immerse high school students in Californias news industry.

She is a Hispanic High School student at Natomas Charter School. Sarah has always had a passion for words and using them as a tool to write. Politics have always piqued her interest and its always something shes ready to discuss. Through her reflections on being an immigrant, she hopes to continue writing, advocating and educating others on human rights movements as well as the importance of youth empowerment.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 7. A project to renovate the facade and provide better accessibility to the building of the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) was presented here on Tuesday. The project is implemented with own funds and financing under the Beautiful Bulgaria Programme of the Labour Ministry.

Opening the event, Director General Kiril Valchev presented all upcoming initiatives. "We are going to illuminate the BTA sign and we plan to use a new font for the inscription with the assistance of students from the National Academy of Arts. Works also involve an overhaul of three of the four entrances of the agency. We will renovate the main entrance, the one for the future information centre and another for the agencys archives office, providing better access for people with mobility issues," Valchev said. He added that there will also be a reading room at the BTA archives office.

Another goal, which we hope to accomplish this month, by the start of the school year at the latest, is to transform the agencys newsroom, Valchev also said, presenting designs for the project. He said the agency's new newsroom will be similar to those at Reuters and the Associated Press.

The transformation of the BTA archives is also one of the key initiatives. A video highlighted the importance of the bulletins and photo archives held at the BTA. We are also working closely with the State Archives Agency, Valchev said in relation to the storage of the Agency's archives.

Another project, The World of News, under the Regions in Growth Programme, will renovate the BTA building in terms of energy. According to Valchev, the building will be provided with external cladding. It makes sense to use the roof for a photovoltaic plant, he also said. In connection with the future information center, a "green zone" is planned, as well as 3D mapping on the facade of the building. Valchev expressed hope that this could become one of the city's attractions. There are also plans to create a News Museum in partnership with the National Polytechnic Museum.

The BTA Director General also focused on the transformation of the media's press clubs, noting that BTA's initiative is presented on the Feast of Transfiguration.

I am convinced that this day was chosen symbolically to see the transformation of the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) building, as we have seen the transformation of the BTA's work over the years. This building is emblematic for Sofia, said Regional Development Minister Violeta Koritarova during the presentation of the project.

According to Koritarova, the building needs renovation. Not only the building but also BTA as an institution deserves respect, the Minister added.

BTA is one of two institutions approved under two of the funding measures of the Beautiful Bulgaria project, said Deputy Labour Minister Natalia Efremova during the event. In 2024, 64 project proposals have been approved for funding and implementation in 60 municipalities and 24 districts under the Beautiful Bulgaria Programme, Efremova added.

Efremova presented Valchev with a congratulatory address on behalf of caretaker Labour Minister Ivaylo Ivanov, saying that the Ministry remains a partner of BTA for the implementation of future projects for the benefit of the people.
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Cubicle Housing for Dairy Stock Publication

Teagasc has published a new booklet titled Cubicle Housing for Dairy Stock. It was presented to dairy farmers attending the Teagasc Dairy Open Day in Ballyhaise Agricultural College, County Cavan.

Pictured from (L to R): were Patrick Kelly, Killygordon, Co. Donegal; Philip Robinson, St Johnston, Co. Donegal; Tom Fallon, Editor, Teagasc Kildalton College, and Jane Sayers, Omagh, Co. Tyrone at the launch of a Teagasc publication titled Cubicle Housing for Dairy Stock at a recent Open Day in Ballyhaise Agricultural College.

"It is important to think long term because cubicle houses are typically in operation for over 40 years."

The booklet provides detailed information on all aspects of cubicle housing for dairy farmers. The authors of the booklet are Tom Fallon, Farm Buildings and Infrastructure Specialist with Teagasc and Francis Quigley, Teagasc Farm Machinery and Milking Machine Specialist.

Given that the vast majority of dairy cows in Ireland are housed over winter in cubicles, this booklet is a valuable contribution to the industry.

This booklet builds on the success of a Teagasc YouTube video titled Cubicle Design for Dairy Cows published by Teagasc ten years ago.

Its a must read for any farmers thinking of adapting existing, or building new winter accommodation for dairy cows.

Tom Fallon said; Cubicles are by far the housing system of choice for dairy cows in Ireland. It is important to think long term because cubicle houses are typically in operation for over 40 years. Most farmers appreciate the importance of providing adequate space in the passageways of cubicle houses. It is also important to meet the needs of cows by providing adequately sized cubicles and avoiding the temptation of trying to squeeze too many cubicles into new sheds.

Cubicle housing needs to meet three key parameters: adequate space per cow, comfortable and clean cubicles and provide adequate feed space per cow. There needs to be at least one cubicle space available per cow.

The booklet can be viewed here

A video titled Cubicle Design for Dairy Cows can be viewed below
What, again? Yep, its price hike time, and theyre coming for practically everyone whos subscribed to Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, or one of the many Disney bundles. Luckily, theres something you can do about it, but you should act soon.

Disney announced its latest price hike on Tuesday, almost a year to the day after announcing its previous rate increase (its getting hard to keep track, I know).

Here are the detailsand yep, practically all Disney plans, including Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, and the various Disney bundles, are slated to go up as of October 17, 2024:

Standalone streaming Disney price increases

Disney+ with ads is going up to $9.99 a month, a $2/month increase

Disney+ Premium will increase to $15.99, also a $2/month increase, while the annual rate will go up to $159.99 a year, from $139.99/year

Hulu with ads will be $9.99 a month, a $2/month price hike, while the annual price will go up to $99.99 a year, a $20/year increase

Hulu without ads will get a $1/month increase to $18.99/month.

Ad-free Hulu will rise to $18.99 a month, a $1/month increase

ESPN+ will be $11.99 a month, up a buck a month, while the annual plan will be $119.99 a year, up from $109.99/year

Disney Bundle price increases

Disney+ and Hulu (both with ads) will go up to $10.99/month, a $1/month increase

Disney+ and Hulu (both with ads) and ESPN+ will be $16.99 a month, up from $14.99/month

Disney+ and Hulu (ad-free) and ESPN+ will be $26.99, a $2/month price hike

Hulu + Live TV price increases

Hulu + Live TV (with ad-supported subscription channels) will go up to $82.99 a month, a $6/month increase

Hulu + Live TV (with ad-free subscription channel) will be $95.99 a month, up from $89.99/month.

Yes, pretty much every Disney-owned streaming property and option is teeing up an increase. Can you spot the Disney plan that isnt getting on increase? Well cover that in a moment.

The good news is that theres a wayfive ways, actuallyto avoid the coming price increases, but youll need to act soon to take advantage of them.

Sign up for the ad-free Disney+ and Hulu bundle

While every other Disney bundle will go up in price on October 17, the Disney Bundle Duo Premium plancomprising ad-free Disney+ and Huluis being spared a price hike this time around.

It looks as though subscribers who were grandfathered into the Legacy Hulu + Live TV, Disney+ (ad-free), and ESPN+ (with ads) tier will stay at $81.99 per month. This plan is not available to new subscribers, and existing Legacy subscribers who change plans cannot go back to it. It looks as though subscribers who were grandfathered into the Legacy Hulu + Live TV, Disney+ (ad-free), and ESPN+ (with ads) tier will stay at $81.99 per month. This plan is not available to new subscribers, and existing Legacy subscribers who change plans cannot go back to it. Michael Brown/Foundry It looks as though subscribers who were grandfathered into the Legacy Hulu + Live TV, Disney+ (ad-free), and ESPN+ (with ads) tier will stay at $81.99 per month. This plan is not available to new subscribers, and existing Legacy subscribers who change plans cannot go back to it. Michael Brown/Foundry Michael Brown/Foundry

For now, Disney Bundle Duo Premium will stay right where it is, at $19.99 a month. It also looks as though the since-discontinued Legacy plan that includes Hulu + Live TV, Disney+ (ad-free), and ESPN+ (with ads) will stay at $81.99. Subscribers to this plan were grandfathered in, but anyone who changes tiers after that datesay, to get Hulu (no ads) at $89.99/mo (soon to be $95.99/mo)cannot go back.

Sign up for a Disney+ Premium annual plan

Not all Disney+ standalone tiers offer annual rates, but Disney+ Premium (ad-free) does. Sign up for an annual Disney+ Premium plan now, and youll lock in the pre-price hike rate.

Just keep in mind that on October 17, a full year of Disney+ Premium will go up to $159.99 a year, up $20 from the current $139.99/year rate.

Sign up a years worth of Hulu with ads

Like Disney+, Hulu is stingy when it comes to annual plans, but there is one: Hulu with ads, which currently costs $79.99 a year.

But just like Disney+ Premium, Hulu with ads will get its own $20/year price increase on October 17, so you should grab the pre-increase annual rate while you still can.

Sign up for the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle

Theres one other bundle thats escaping the coming price increase: the bundle that includes Disney+, Hulu, and Max.

You can get the with-ads version of that triple threat bundle for $19.99 a month, while the ad-free version of the Disney+, Hulu, and Max package costs $29.99 a month.

Sign up for a years worth of ESPN+

Finally, theres ESPN+s annual plan, which currently costs $109.99 a year.

As of October 17, ESPN+s annual rate will go up to $119.99 a year, so if youre only interested in ESPN+ and want to skip the price hike, this is the way.

Dont wait too long

If your pre-October 17 billing period extends past the October 17 date of the Disney price hikes, you may be renewed at the new increased billing rate prior to October 17. (Ive learned this the hard way.)

So pay attention to the dates on your Disney billing cycle and lock in the annual plan during the last full monthly billing period before the price hike hits.

Updated shortly after publication to add information about the Legacy Hulu + Live TV, Disney+ (no ads), ESPN+ (with ads) subscription tier that is no longer available to new subscribers..
Forward-looking: Micron claims to be the first to market with PCIe Gen6 solid-state drive technology, which could be a boon for data centers struggling to keep up with AI workloads. Mainstream consumers, however, will have to play the waiting game for a while longer.

Micron didn't reveal much in its press release, but the company did say the tech "delivers sequential read bandwidths of over 26 GB/s." Making the tech available to partners will help kickstart the PCIe Gen6 ecosystem, we're told, and builds on recent advancement in data center storage.

Just last month, Micron made headlines when it unleashed its 9550 NVMe SSD. This data center drive boasts sequential read speeds of up to 14 GB/s, making it one of the fastest SSDs currently available. Sequential write speeds are rated at up to 10 GB/s, which is significantly better than the competition.

Based on Micron's numbers, the new Gen6 SSD should be about 85 percent faster than the Gen5 9550 unit in terms of sequential reads.

Micron's 9550 isn't just fast, but also efficient. The company said it consumes 43 percent less power than other data center SSDs running AI workloads which, at scale, could save operators a lot of money.

The Idaho-based memory maker plans to share more information on the technology at the Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) conference, which runs through August 8 at the Santa Clara Convention Center in California. It's unclear if that'll include full specifications, a live demonstration, and / or pricing / release date information.

Consumer-grade SSDs are not quite to the level of data center units. Newer Gen5 consumer SSDs are plenty fast, but still struggle with cooling. As the drives heat up, they often trigger thermal throttling which significantly reduces performance.

Earlier this year, the PCI Special Interest Group (PCI-SIG) said the compliance programs for both PCIe 6.0 and 7.0 had been delayed. The PCIe 6.0 program  initially for data centers  was originally set for March 2024 but that might not happen until sometime in 2025. It'll be a while longer before the tech trickles down to mainstream consumer levels.
In brief: Last year, Volexity detected and responded to an incident involving systems infected with malware linked to the Chinese hacking group StormBamboo. Initially, suspicions pointed to a compromised firewall, but further investigation revealed that the DNS poisoning occurred at the ISP level. This attack, like many modern cyber threats, was highly sophisticated and underscores the importance of securing software update processes.

In a new revelation, security researchers at Volexity report a sophisticated cyber attack orchestrated by the Chinese hacking group StormBamboo. The attack, detected in mid-2023, involved the compromise of an internet service provider to launch widespread DNS poisoning attacks against multiple organizations. By exploiting vulnerabilities in automatic software update processes, StormBamboo successfully installed malware on both macOS and Windows systems, demonstrating a concerning level of versatility and reach.

StormBamboo was able to alter DNS query responses for specific domains tied to automatic software updates by targeting applications that use insecure update mechanisms, such as HTTP, and fail to properly validate digital signatures. By exploiting these vulnerabilities, StormBamboo was able to redirect update requests to their own servers, where they installed malware instead of legitimate updates.

When the ISP investigated the issue, it took various network components offline and the DNS poisoning immediately stopped, revealing the attack's dependence on the compromised infrastructure.

Perhaps most striking was the attack's capability to intercept and modify DNS queries, even when users relied on public DNS services like Google's 8.8.8.8 or Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1. This ability to bypass widely trusted DNS services underscores the remarkable sophistication of StormBamboo's operation.

"That is the fun/scary part  this was not the hack of the ISP's DNS servers," Volexity CEO Steven Adair told Ars Technica. "This was a compromise of network infrastructure for Internet traffic."

StormBamboo deployed several malware families, including new variants of MACMA for macOS and POCOSTICK (also known as MGBot) for Windows. The latest version of MACMA shows significant code similarities to the GIMMICK malware family, suggesting the two might have converged.

In one case, following the compromise of a macOS device, StormBamboo deployed a malicious Google Chrome extension called RELOADEXT. This extension, disguised as a tool for loading pages in Internet Explorer compatibility mode, actually exfiltrated browser cookies to an attacker-controlled Google Drive account.

To protect against similar attacks, organizations should implement HTTPS for all software update processes, regularly audit and update network infrastructure, use robust digital signature verification for updates, monitor for unusual DNS activity, and employ network security monitoring tools capable of detecting DNS poisoning attempts.

While Volexity did not indicate whether this specific form of attack was occurring today, DNS attacks in general continue to be a major concern for organizations around the world. In Q1 of 2024 alone, there were 1.5 million DNS DDoS attacks reported. Multiple forms of DNS attacks are currently active, including DNS spoofing, cache poisoning, DDoS attacks on DNS servers, DNS hijacking, and DNS-based malware distribution. Meanwhile, new types of DNS attacks are also emerging.

One example is DNS amplification attacks, a type of DDoS attack that exploits vulnerabilities in DNS servers to overwhelm a target system with a flood of traffic. These attacks saw a 117% year-over-year increase in Q4 2023.
In brief: Before Microsoft Word became the de-facto standard for word processing on the PC, the market was rich with choice. WordStar is a program many great writers started their career on, and now even the most juvenile authors can easily access this classic tool thanks to DOS emulation and a repackaging effort by Robert Sawyer.

Science fiction writer Robert J. Sawyer uses WordStar 7.0 to write his award-winning stories. The word processor was last updated in December 1992, meaning it has been "defunct" for decades and could be considered abandonware. While there is no legal consensus about how such software and copyright laws should interact, Sawyer is confident enough that he can provide the last WordStar version for DOS to other people through the internet.

The Canadian author decided to create a "proper" archive for WordStar for DOS 7.0 Rev. D, working for weeks to add some additional material and make the program easier to run on modern systems. The 680 MB download includes WordStar and a pair of DOS emulators (DOSBox-X and vDosPlus) to quickly launch it on Windows. The archive provides the full installs of the program as well as images of the installation disks, PDF versions of the seven original manuals, additional utility programs, and more.

WordStar has been a big part of Sawyer's career, as he wrote all 25 of his novels, his short stories, and freelance articles with it. The "finest word-processing program ever created" is still in use by other authors as well including Ralph Ellison, George R. R. Martin, Andy Breckman, and Anne Rice.

WordStar was originally developed by Rob Barnaby in 1978 for the CP/M-80 operating system, but it was later ported to MS-DOS and Windows. The program was a dominant force in the 80s, and according to columnist John Dvorak it was among the most pirated software in the world. As the Vampire Chronicles writer Anne Rice said, WordStar was a "magnificent" program to write stories in. "It was logical, beautiful, perfect. Compared to it, Microsoft Word is pure madness," Rice said.

MicroPro, the original publisher of WordStar, is long gone. Thanks to Sawyer's efforts, anyone can now run the program on a Windows computer in a matter of minutes. The archived files can also be used on Linux and Mac machines, as DOSBox-X is compatible with these operating systems as well.

Sawyer is thinking about his own legacy, too. "Once I'm gone," the author said, "my literary estate will need to deal with my electronic manuscripts, and my executor should be able to work with them on her own computer rather than just mine." Arthur C. Clarke and "countless" other authors who are no longer on this planet wrote with WordStar, and Sawyer hopes that his archive will be useful to scholars as well.
Creality introduces its next champion for efficient cutting and precise engraving, the Falcon2 Pro. This laser engraving machine supports 40W and 22W laser modules for different materials and applications. It boasts a fully transparent and protective cover with excellent light-filtering capability for eye-friendly viewing.

The Falcon2 Pro also keeps you safe through its multiple security monitoring. The laser engraver alerts you when the flame is detected. At the push of a button, you can stop its operations. The machine also has a built-in top camera with pilot technology and visual assistance, ensuring accurate alignment.

The Creality Falcon2 Pro penetrates deeply with its diode laser. It provides a working area of 400* 415mm, a space large enough to engrave small objects in one batch. You have a lot of access inside the machine by opening its roll top. The laser engraver operates fast without compromising the quality of its engravings. Its integrated air assist prevents burn marks that make your engravings look charred.

The laser engraving machine also impresses with its ability to cut through wood, acrylic sheets, and stainless steel sheets. The Creality Falcon 2 Pro stores the debris inside its metal drawer, which you can pull underneath the laser engraving and cutting machine, removing the hassle of cleanup. Once emptied, you can easily slide the drawer under.

While it lacks the flexibility of a handheld laser engraver, the Falcon2 Pro boasts a space-saving design, making it a perfect fit for small rooms or studios. It supports Windows and MacOS systems, including software programs such as LaserGRBL and LightBurn. When you purchase the 40W laser engraver, Creality offers a bonus 1.6W laser module, which works best for image engraves as it produces better resolution.

Building the laser engraving machine only takes less than 10 minutes. Based on design and initial testing, the Falcon2 Pro impresses with its protective build, spacious working area, and the materials it can cut through. The 40W laser module, in particular, can handle thicker and harder materials. With a complementary 1.6W module, the machine produces exemplary detail, especially for image engraves.

What sets the Falcon2 Pro apart from other laser engravers is its built-in top camera. The visual assistance proves useful, especially for beginners, to reduce errors prior to production. You can properly align the material against the module to produce an accurate position of the design. The camera can also help you maximize the space from used-materials for new creative projects.

Exploring the Features of Falcon2 Pro

Creality excels in developing and manufacturing FDM and resin 3D printers, placing innovation and user-centric design at the forefront. The Falcon2 Pro exists alongside groundbreaking advancements like the K1 series, which integrated AI into 3D printing. The latest laser engraving machine from the leading global brand boasts stronger laser power, high-speed engraving, and robust user protection.

FDA Class 1 Safety Certification

The Falcon2 Pro impresses with its 360-degree visual enclosed design, evidenced by its deep-red and highly transparent cover, designed to prevent laser leakage. It has excellent light-filtering capability, which makes its operation safe for eye-friendly viewing and eliminates the need to wear protective eyewear.

Moreover, with dual sensors and an emergency stop function, the Falcon2 Pro prevents potential harm from happening. Opening its lid will instantly stop its operation. You can resume its operation by pressing the play button (see image below). Creality values your safety and protection by achieving the FDA Class 1 safety certification.

Multiple Security Monitoring

Creality further ensures maximum safety performance through multiple security monitoring. The Falcon2 Pro monitors flame, dirt, and airflow. The laser engraving machine stops its operation when a flame is detected. It also triggers an alarm when dirt is detected on the lens, preventing early breakage and frequent replacement.

The laser engraver can indicate the current airflow volume, which you can adjust based on your engraving needs.

Pilot Technology & Visual Assistance

The Falcon2 Pro contains a built-in top camera with pilot technology and virtual assistance, which works best for batch operations. The camera provides a full-frame and full-size positioning and monitoring of the working area for accurate alignment. Camera-based positioning reduces the errors made during production.

This laser engraving machine supports real-time preview and one-click picture output. Falcon2 Pro connects to LaserGBL and LightBurn software programs, which give you the tools for editing and optimizing designs. You can also control the laser's movements and power through these applications.

Super Cutting Power

The Creality Falcon2 Pro supports 22W and 40W laser modules. This 40W laser engraving and cutting machine can cut through thicker materials like a 20mm basswood board, 30mm black acrylic, or 0.15mm stainless steel sheet.Moreover, it boasts 0.003 inches of movement accuracy and a maximum engraving speed of 25000 mm/min. You can expect fast results and precise details from this machine.

The 40W Falcon2 Pro works well for engraving photos but it cannot achieve the same effect compared to the 1.6W module. You can get this module for free when you purchase the 40W laser engraver.

Air Purification System

The Falcon2 Pro has an upgraded curved cover that keeps the smoke from escaping. The laser engraving machine leverages an air purification system that efficiently filters smoke and dust. When paired with optional air purifiers, you have no worries about inhaling toxic fumes.

The extractor fan is built into the enclosure itself (see image above), which you can control by having it turned on all the time. You can also put the fan on auto-mode which lets the laser engraving machine handle the ventilation. (see image below)

Fence Type Protection Strip

The Falcon2 Pro exhibits a fence-type protection strip design, which you can switch to flat or stand mode. This design dissipates heat and smoke. Through a special oxidation process, your engravings have a wear-resistant finish and appear visually appealing.

Metal Drawer

The Falcon2 Pro stores debris in its metal drawer. You can find this underneath the laser engraving machine. With a simple pull, you can empty its content. This design makes cleaning convenient and reduces the frequency of cleaning.

Offline Support

This laser engraver also supports offline dynamic preview. Simply insert a TF card into the Falcon2 Pro, then initiate the engraving.

Assembling the Falcon2 Pro

Creality provides a printed manual to guide you for assembling the Falcon2 Pro. By following the manual or an operational video, putting together the laser engraving machine only took me less than ten minutes.

The instructions were straightforward and parts were easy to attach since you have screws and bolts to connect the ribs and insert the tinted material to create the enclosure. You'll notice the camera attached to the central section (see image above) while assembling the enclosure, which you can use later to monitor the engraving process while the machine is active.

The main frame of the Falcon2 Pro is already pre-assembled with all the electronics. All you have to do now is insert the tray underneath, the laser module, and rails. Besides collecting debris, the tray stops you from engraving whatever surface the machine is on. The rails act as the honeycomb bed which you can adjust according to the amount of space you're going to use, depending how small or big of a material you're engraving. You can also take them out without hassle if these rails ever need cleaning.

Afterwards, you can easily place the enclosure on top of the frame then attach the tinted side panels, which strengthens and completes the deep-red transparent cover. Finish the assembly by plugging in the cables and the Falcon2 Pro is ready to engrave.

Testing the Performance of the Falcon2 Pro

In terms of its cutting performance, the Falcon2 Pro efficiently cuts through its 40W super-cutting power. You can tell from the results the laser engraving and cutting machine lets no detail escape, even the edges and corners look fine and smooth. Creality provides a sample pack of different materials inside the SD card which you can use to test the machine initially before proceeding with your projects.

In terms of its laser performance, the Falcon2 Pro also engraves with incredible detail, especially with its 1.6W laser module. The results showed no signs of burn marks thanks to the integrated air assist. You can customize the design of a cutting board (see image above) or create personalized gifts in batches (see image below) with the assistance of either Lightburn or LaserGBL.

Is the Falcon2 Pro for you?

Through its 40W super-cutting power, the Falcon2 Pro effortlessly handles materials like wood, glass, plastic, and leather. The laser engraving and cutting machine combines aesthetics with versatility, evidenced by its spacious working area, protective lid, metal drawer, and fence-type protection strip.

The Falcon2 Pro lacks the flexibility of handheld laser engravers. Its 400mm/s speed also pales in comparison to other machines that boast 600 to 900mm/s. Creality makes up for these limitations through spaciousness, visual assistance, and safety measures.

Save $190 when you buy the 40W Falcon2 Pro now for only $1709. The 22W Falcon2 Pro also costs $130 less. Creality offers free shipping and a 14-day money-back guarantee, including lifetime customer support.

Shop more items during the Back-to-School Event and enjoy huge savings. The sale lasts from August 9 to August 31, 2024. Use the discount code Falcon5 for the Creality Falcon2 Pro.

Don't worry if you missed the sale. You can still secure this high-power laser engraving machine from these official stores: US, UK, EU, CA, DE, and AU. Use the code FNPALL10 and enjoy an exclusive discount on your first purchase.
Being equipped with the right apps for traveling is a necessity, and the renowned platform, Flighty, has released its updated version 4.0 which introduces new capabilities for the app. This is because the app has now introduced machine learning capabilities, a.k.a. AI, which would help in predicting if one's flight will face a delay, centering on aircraft arriving late at the terminal.

Moreover, Flighty's advanced capabilities will also gather reasons as to why one's flight would be delayed, and will no longer keep users in the dark.

Flighty Update 4.0 to Tell Users if Flight is Delayed

The latest update from Flighty is version 4.0, and 9to5Mac revealed what this update has to offer users, centering on its employment of the most advanced tech of today, artificial intelligence. With version 4.0, Flighty now can tell users if their flight is delayed, centering on airplanes or aviation companies running late in providing the vessel travelers would ride on.

However, it is not an exact science, as Flighty can only predict if its flight will get delayed based on the data that it gathers from its flight tracking capabilities.

According to Flighty, it uses machine learning that is capable of predicting with 95 percent accuracy, and it could also tell users if this was caused by the Air Space or airports' Air Traffic Control as it could tap into FAA and Eurocontrol data.

Flighty 4.0's AI Will Tell You Delay Reasons

Apart from telling users about their delayed flight before ground crew employees can, it could also use the data it gathered to find out the reason behind the said delays. There are various reasons as to why a flight would be delayed, as it could be for inclement weather, taxi congestion, ground control issues, late aircraft, and more which it would provide to users.

Helpful Air Travel Apps For You

For the not-so-keen travelers who are always going with the flow whenever arriving at airports and relying on what the crew will tell users about different information of their journey. Among the top apps for traveling is Flighty, and it has helped in giving accurate and reliable information to flyers with ease, with a previous feature allowing users to get updated data despite being on Airplane Mode or offline.

Another one that will help users in their flight is helping offer them peace of mind about what type, brand, or make of their aircraft, especially with the recent issues on Boeing aircraft. 'Am I Flying with Boeing' is a website that offers user insights if their nearing or upcoming flight would be using a plane made by the company, especially with the reported dangers and risks with Boeing aircraft.

Being prepared for anything coming one's way on air travel is a great way to anticipate what lies ahead, especially with the unpredictable and fragile nature of aviation. Now, Flighty 4.0's update offers a version powered by machine learning, one that would help in predicting why one's flight is delayed and tell users what might be the reason behind it, all available on the app.
Elon Musk may be among the first to have popularized and made satellite internet available, but rivals from all over the world are also developing this, with the latest being China with its recent launch of 18 'Qianfan' satellites. The latest batch is only a first for its planned thousands to deploy in the future, as part of its massive constellation that will provide a wideservice.

It was revealed by China that the Qianfan satellites would deliver a global satellite internet service, also similar to Starlink's goal of high-speed broadband internet for the world.

China Launches 18 'Qianfan' Satellites to Orbit from SSST

A recent launch from China marked the start of its dip towards satellite internet services according to Xinhua (via Ars Technica), with this mission debuting 18 Qianfan satellites to orbit. The latest launch boarded China's Long March 6A rocket and departed from the Taiyuan launch base in the Shanxi province, with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation claiming that it was a success.

Qianfan satellites (which translate to 'Thousand sails) were developed by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology, best known for being backed by Shanghai's municipal government.

According to Ars' report, the Qianfan satellites share similarities to that of Starlink, featuring a flat-panel design to its orbiting spacecraft that are easy to pack.

China's Satellite Internet to Beam Service Globally

The first 18 satellites from SSST and China mark the beginning of its service, but it certainly would not be the last, as there are plans to have a 'mega constellation' consisting of 14,000 orbiting spacecraft. Since China banned Starlink satellites from entering its region, it would help deliver satellite internet technology to users, but it plans a global reach to service territories outside China with high-speed capabilities.

Satellite Internet Services in the World

The growing adaptation of satellite internet has brought wonders of accessibility and connectivity to the world, as it does not rely on terrestrial infrastructures to provide its service to users. This was popularized and massively expanded by none other than Elon Musk's SpaceX via its subsidiary, Starlink, which has since provided the world with reliable and adept services, with the company expanding on its satellite constellation.

However, some rivals look to deliver its satellite internet capabilities, with United Kingdom's contender, OneWeb, previously hitching a ride from SpaceX.

Apart from Big Tech satellite internet developers, there is also the Texas startup known as AST Space Mobile whichfocuses on a satellite-to-phone service.

While the United States has been the center of satellite internet development, there are also other countries and their companies who are looking to deliver this experience. China is among them, with the East Asian superpower recently launching its first efforts towards satellite internet from SSST, with the Qianfan satellites soon to beam internet not only for the country but globally.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 8. The US administration intends to continue efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, Trend reports.

"We will continue to negotiate with our partners in the Middle East and call for de-escalation," she said.

The White House added that the United States is focused on reducing tensions.
Tesla has recalled almost all the cars it has sold in mainland China over the past four years due to a software issue that could fail to detect when the trunk is unlocked.

With that, it's the largest recall of the automaker in the region so far, accounting for 1.68 million vehicles. More specifically, the affected models are those manufactured between October 17, 2020, and July 17, 2024, according to AP News.

Addressing the recall is crucial because an unlatched bonnet could obstruct the view of the driver, China's State Administration for Market Regulation said. It would also reduce the risk of accidents.

Resolving the Issue with Software Updates

Tesla plans to address the issue with an over-the-air software update. The recall covers Chinese-made Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, as well as Model S and Model X vehicles imported from the US.

Independent analyst Gao Shen noted that the recall is not expected to significantly impact Tesla's sales and operations.

Earlier this year, the EV maker recalled 1.6 million vehicles in China to address issues with its Autopilot assisted driver system, aimed at reducing the risk of crashes.

Despite these recalls, Tesla's deliveries in mainland China grew by 37 percent last year, reaching 603,664 units, making China Tesla's second-largest market after the US, where sales increased by 25 percent to 654,888 vehicles in 2023.

Tesla's Market Dominance in China

Since the Gigafactory 3 in Shanghai began delivering vehicles in January 2020, Tesla has been a dominant player in China's premium electric vehicle (EV) market. This factory, Tesla's largest globally, produces the Model 3 and Model Y cars, which are also exported to markets like Japan.

However, Tesla has faced multiple challenges regarding the quality and safety of its cars in China.

The company has had several disputes with mainland regulators and customers since 2021. Despite these issues, Tesla improved its relationship with China especially when Elon Musk visited Beijing in April. Chinese data security regulators warmly welcomed Tesla, making it the first foreign EV maker to receive approval.

Testing Full Self-Driving in China

Tesla plans to test its Full Self-Driving autonomous driving software in China by the end of 2024. With that, the company knows that it has to step up its EV game or else, other automakers will edge it in the market.

Besides Tesla, other automakers which issued recalls recently include Hyundai which recalled nearly 50,000 of the 2024 Santa Fe and Santa Fe HEV vehicles over unintended airbag deactivation. Nissan also recalled 1,188 of 2023 Ariya vehicles over loss of drive power, according to USA Today.

Elsewhere, a new Tesla Cybertruck equipped with a dry-cathode battery underwent testing. The automaker hopes that it will improve the pickup truck's range and performance while also reducing production costs.
Three perfect timekeepers to take on a trip to the heel of Italys boot

Nestled in the "heel" of Italy's boot, Puglia is a beautiful destination brimming with stunning coastlines, historic towns and rich culture. So let me take you on a trip through three captivating places on the Adriatic coast  Ostuni, Monopoli and Fasano  pairing each location with an ideal watch to enhance our travel experience.

Trulli huts in Cisternino in Puglia, Italy  Steven Rogers

Ostuni

Known as the "white city", Ostuni dazzles thousands of visitors each year with its whitewashed buildings and mazy alleyways. Its historic old town packs in plenty of architectural delights such as the towns 15th-century cathedral with Gothic facade and rose window.

Ostuni  Freysteinn G Jonsson / Unsplash

My choice of wrist gear here could only be Trilobes Les Matinaux in rose gold with sunray silver dial. Its dial design and tones neatly echo the architectural motifs of the cathedral and the bright facades of the buildings.

Trilobe's Les Matinaux in rose gold with sunray silver dial  Trilobe

If you continue strolling through the narrow streets, you come across charming piazzas, hidden courtyards and quaint shops offering local craft products. Foodies will definitely love the town's culinary offerings including traditional Apulian dishes like Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa and local, full-bodied wines. And if you come late August, you can enjoy the lively Cavalcata di Sant'Oronzo festival.

Ostuni  Josefina Di Battista / Unsplash

Monopoli

About 40 minutes away from Ostuni by car, Monopoli offers a lovely blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Again, whitewashed facades characterise this town.

Mosey down to the harbour to enjoy fresh seafood while watching local fishermen at work. From there, you can explore the medieval old town with its narrow alleys, ancient churches and the impressive Carlo V Castle.

Beyond its historical attractions, Monopoli boasts some fine beaches such as Porto Ghiacciolo, Cala Porto Rosso and  right in the town centre  Cala Porta Vecchia, which are all ideal for relaxing, swimming and even doing a bit of snorkelling.

Cala Porta Vecchia, Monopoli  Steven Rogers

With that in mind, a good-looking watch with decent water resistance should do the trick nicely in this glorious location  something like the Doxa SUB 200 Whitepearl with crisp white dial and sporty rubber strap.

DOXA SUB 200 Whitepearl  DOXA

Fasano

In between Ostuni and Monopoli, its worth stopping at Fasano which has a fair amount to offer while being less touristy. The town itself has some charming architecture including the 12th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista and the picturesque Piazza Ciaia. This is a great place to explore local shops and cafes.

Fasano town centre  iStock

Fasano is also home to the Selva di Fasano, a lush hillside area ideal for nature walks and panoramic views. The nearby archaeological site of Egnazia provides an insightful glimpse into ancient Roman and Messapian civilizations with its well-preserved ruins and museum.

Not far from the Selva is Zoosafari, one of the largest wildlife parks in Italy and a highlight for families. The park is home to a wide range of animals like lions, elephants and rhinos which all roam around in expansive habitats. The park notably engages in conservation and education programs aimed at protecting endangered species and raising awareness about wildlife preservation.

Nova the Indian rhino at Zoosafari near Fasano, Italy  ZooSafari

There can only be one watch fit for this excursion: The Hublot Big Bang Unico SORAI, created to support the organisation SORAI which stands for Save Our Rhino Africa India.

Hublot Big Bang Unico Sorai 44mm  Hublot

One of the recent editions of this ongoing series features colours that evoke the sunset, in turn reminding us of the heightened danger rhinos in the wild face from poachers at dusk.
Swiss mining giant Glencore drops plan to exit coal



Zurich, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



Swiss commodities giant Glencore announced Wednesday that it had decided against spinning off its coal business for now after consulting shareholders who view the polluting fossil fuel as a cash-generating activity.

Glencore completed its takeover of the steelmaking coal unit of Teck Resources in July following a protracted battle over the business with the Canadian company.

The Swiss mining and commodities trading group had considered merging the newly acquired business, Elk Valley Resources, with its own coal activities and spinning it off.

But Glencore said that after consulting its shareholders, most expressed a preference for retaining the coal and carbon steel materials business.

"Following extensive consultation with our shareholders, whose views were very clear, and our own analysis, the Board believes retention offers the lowest risk pathway to create value for Glencore shareholders today," chairman Kalidas Madhavpeddi said.

"The expected cash generative capacity of the coal and carbon steel materials business significantly enhances the quality of our portfolio," Madhavpeddi added in a statement.

The company said shareholders preferred to keep the coal business "primarily on the basis that retention should enhance Glencore's cash generating capacity to fund opportunities in our transition metals portfolio" such as copper.

They also concluded that it would "accelerate and optimise the return of excess cash flows to shareholders".

Oil, gas and coal companies are under pressure to transition away from fossil fuels, the biggest contributor to climate change.

While Glencore's Australian rival Rio Tinto and British group Anglo American are exiting coal, the Swiss company has a "managed decline" strategy to ensure a "responsible" phase out its coal operations.

Glencore said Wednesday that while it has decided to keep coal, its board "preserves the option to consider a demerger of all or part of this business in the future if circumstances change".

Separately, Glencore posted a $233-million loss for the first half of the year, after earning $4.6 billion over the same period last year, as commodity prices fell, "particularly thermal coal".

noo/lth/jj

Glencore
Swiss mining giant Glencore drops plan to exit coal



Zurich, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



Swiss commodities giant Glencore announced Wednesday that it had decided against spinning off its coal business for now after consulting shareholders who view the polluting fossil fuel as a cash-generating activity.

Glencore completed its takeover of the steelmaking coal unit of Teck Resources in July following a protracted battle over the business with the Canadian company.

The Swiss commodities trading and mining group had considered merging the newly acquired business, Elk Valley Resources, with its own coal activities and spinning it off.

But Glencore said that after consulting its shareholders, most expressed a preference for retaining the coal and carbon steel materials business.

"I certainly am convinced that it's the right decision," Glencore CEO Gary Nagle said in a telephone conference.

The company has argued it needs the cash flow from its coal mines to invest in raw materials useful for the green transition, such as copper and cobalt.

"Following extensive consultation with our shareholders, whose views were very clear, and our own analysis, the Board believes retention offers the lowest risk pathway to create value for Glencore shareholders today," chairman Kalidas Madhavpeddi said.

"The expected cash generative capacity of the coal and carbon steel materials business significantly enhances the quality of our portfolio," Madhavpeddi added in a statement.

The company said shareholders preferred to keep the coal business "primarily on the basis that retention should enhance Glencore's cash generating capacity to fund opportunities in our transition metals portfolio" such as copper.

They also concluded that it would "accelerate and optimise the return of excess cash flows to shareholders".

"There's no question that keeping it in Glencore's hands is positive from an ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) perspective and from a value perspective," Nagle said.

The firm's CEO deemed that "to keep these assets in Glencore's hands rather than spinning out because of our responsible run down strategy" was "the way to go" -- claiming that even some "left-leaning NGOs" pushed it to retain its coal activities.

But the company's strategy to hold on to the highly-polluting resource has been criticised by environmental charities and shareholders, who pointed out that coal is banned from some investment portfolios.

Glencore since 2020 has been barred from Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the world's largest.



- 'Managed decline' -



Oil, gas and coal companies are under pressure to transition away from fossil fuels, the biggest contributor to climate change.

While Glencore's Australian rival Rio Tinto and British group Anglo American are exiting coal, the Swiss company has a "managed decline" strategy to ensure a "responsible" phase out its coal operations.

Glencore said Wednesday that while it has decided to keep coal, its board "preserves the option to consider a demerger of all or part of this business in the future if circumstances change".

Coal generates key revenue for the group, whose profits boomed in 2022 when prices for the combustible soared following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Separately, Glencore posted a $233-million loss for the first half of the year, after earning $4.6 billion over the same period last year, as commodity prices fell, "particularly thermal coal".

noo/lth/jj/ju

Glencore
Swiss mining giant Glencore drops plan to exit coal



Zurich, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2024



Swiss commodities giant Glencore announced Wednesday that it had decided against spinning off its coal business for now after consulting shareholders who view the polluting fossil fuel as a cash-generating activity.

Glencore completed its takeover of the steelmaking coal unit of Teck Resources in July following a protracted battle over the business with the Canadian company.

The Swiss commodities trading and mining group had considered merging the newly acquired business, Elk Valley Resources, with its own coal activities and spinning it off.

But Glencore said that after consulting its shareholders, most expressed a preference for retaining the coal and carbon steel materials business.

"I certainly am convinced that it's the right decision," Glencore CEO Gary Nagle said in a conference call.

The company has argued it needs the cash flow from its coal mines to invest in raw materials useful for the green transition, such as copper and cobalt.

"Following extensive consultation with our shareholders, whose views were very clear, and our own analysis, the Board believes retention offers the lowest risk pathway to create value for Glencore shareholders today," chairman Kalidas Madhavpeddi said.

"The expected cash generative capacity of the coal and carbon steel materials business significantly enhances the quality of our portfolio," Madhavpeddi added in a statement.

The company said shareholders preferred to keep the coal business "primarily on the basis that retention should enhance Glencore's cash generating capacity to fund opportunities in our transition metals portfolio" such as copper.

They also concluded that it would "accelerate and optimise the return of excess cash flows to shareholders".

"There's no question that keeping it in Glencore's hands is positive from an ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) perspective and from a value perspective," Nagle said.

Glencore shares gained around 3.1 percent in late afternoon trading on the London Stock Exchange.

The firm's CEO deemed that "to keep these assets in Glencore's hands rather than spinning out because of our responsible run down strategy" was "the way to go" -- saying that even some "left-leaning NGOs" pushed it to retain its coal activities.

But the company's strategy to hold on to the highly-polluting resource has been criticised by environmental charities and shareholders, who pointed out that coal is banned from some investment portfolios.

Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the world's largest, has excluded Glencore shares from its portfolio since 2020.

While some investors may be "disappointed that they won't have the option to remove the coal arm from the rest of the business", said Hargreaves Lansdown analyst Matt Britzman, "operationally this decision makes sense".

"The coal portfolio is a cash cow," he said.



- 'Managed decline' -



Oil, gas and coal companies are under pressure to transition away from fossil fuels, the biggest contributor to climate change.

While Glencore's Australian rival Rio Tinto and British group Anglo American are exiting coal, the Swiss company has a "managed decline" strategy to ensure a "responsible" phase out its coal operations.

The Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility (ACCR), which advises shareholders company climate transition plans, urged Glencore to better explain its long-term intentions for coal.

"Glencore needs to move swiftly and give investors much needed visibility on how it plans to manage its increased exposure to climate transition risk," which has risen since the Teck coal takeover, the Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility (ACCR) said in a statement.

Glencore said Wednesday that while it has decided to keep coal, its board "preserves the option to consider a demerger of all or part of this business in the future if circumstances change".

But the ACCR pointed out that the metallurgical coal mines Glencore acquired from Teck had an average life of 31 years, with most extending beyond 2050 -- compared to 13 years for Glencore's existing assets.

Coal generates key revenue for the group, whose profits boomed in 2022 when prices for the combustible soared following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Separately, Glencore posted a $233-million loss for the first half of the year, after earning $4.6 billion over the same period last year, as commodity prices fell, "particularly thermal coal".

noo/ju/rl

Glencore
America has recently crowned Miss USA 2024, a 22-year-old Miss Michigan and army officer named Alma Cooper, but scandals have continued to erupt after the final. Against the backdrop of the pageant in America, there was talk of alleged mistreatment of the participants.

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Some beauty queens even renounced their titles, citing psychological pressure. However, according to The Post, not all the winners of the pageant share their opinion.

A scandal erupted over several girls who gave up their crowns. In May, 24-year-old Noelia Voight relinquished her Miss USA title seven months after being awarded, citing mental health issues. Her decision was shared by 17-year-old Miss Teen USA UmaSophia Srivastava and another winner of the pageant.

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The journalists learned that the beauties complained about bullying and harassment by the Miss USA management. Attentive readers noticed that the initial letters of each of the sentences in Voight's explanation form a single phrase - "I am silenced," which in an arbitrary translation means "I am forced to remain silent."

The rumors had to be denied by 28-year-old Miss Hawaii Savannah Hankiewicz, who has been serving as Miss USA since May.

"Now that I've been Miss USA for almost three months, I can tell you that it's all a lie. The organization is just amazing. Leila Rose, the president, has been very good to me. I'm just enjoying every second of it," Gankevich said in an interview.

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She also hinted that it was the former crown holders who initiated the scandals, not the victims. In response, UmaSofia wrote a devastating post criticizing Gankevich.

"I will not tolerate anyone slandering me or Noelia. If I stand for anything, it is my values and my honesty. The assertion that Noelia and I were not victims but perpetrators of something even remotely resembling 'bullying', according to the current representative, is regrettable, but confirms that my choice to distance myself from this organization was the right one," the former Miss Teen USA wrote.

In the end, the argument ended with the representatives of the former queens assuring that they wish the new Miss USA success, but they want nothing to do with the organization.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!

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This article is part of a months-long series investigating misconduct in the CFMEU.

The CFMEU assigned a senior Bandidos bikie enforcer to work as a union organiser on major Victorian government construction projects and to sit on the governing board of the John Setka-led union branch, a role he was allowed to keep even after he was charged over a violent assault.

Marty Albert, who is facing charges over a pub bashing in Geelong with two other senior Bandidos bikies last year, quit the CFMEU Victorias management committee on July 12. That was a day before this masthead, The Australian Financial Review and 60 Minutes published the Building Bad investigation into the union and its infiltration by bikies and organised crime, and the same day Setka resigned.

Marty Albert was profiled in a CFMEU member magazine in 2018. Credit: CFMEU Victoria

Fair Work Commission general manager Murray Furlong pointed to Alberts resignation as evidence of the unions limited response to the claims in the media reports, according to court documents filed last week to force the CFMEU into administration.

Separately, Health Services Union national secretary Lloyd Williams called for the boss of its largest Victorian branch to step aside while claims of corruption, published by this masthead on Tuesday, were investigated. The head of that branch, Health Workers Union secretary Diana Asmar, has told the HSU she strenuously denies the claims.
World famous American celebrity photographer Fadil Berisha created the first official photos for Miss Universe Ukraine 2024 Alina Ponomarenko. The 20-year-old from Odesa, wearing a pale blue dress and a crown, had a simple photo shoot against a wall.

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The contest organizers thanked the photographer for her support of Ukraine. The photos were posted on Alina Ponomarenko's Instagram.

For the beauty's first official photo shoot as Miss Universe Ukraine, she wore a pastel outfit with a corset embroidered with sparkling stones and a fluffy skirt.

The mermaid silhouette emphasized the figure of the winner of the Ukrainian selection, as well as helped focus attention on her fragile shoulders. The Ukrainian woman held a crown and a ribbon in her hands.

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She had a simple hairstyle, but the woman's makeup was bright. The accent on the eyelids and eyelashes helped to set off the brown eyes of the Odesa native, while a light gloss on the lips added sophistication.

In the comments, people wished Alina Ponomarenko good luck at the contest and praised her beauty.

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Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Police are examining CCTV footage after a Sydney teacher allegedly sexually abused her student, and are investigating her interactions with two other students, a court has heard.

Tayla Brailey, 30, appeared via audiovisual link from custody at Liverpool Local Court on Wednesday, where she was granted strict bail over charges of sexual intercourse with a person aged 17 under her care, as well as sexual touching and aggravated sexual assault of the same boy.

Teacher Tayla Brailey leaves Amber Laurel Correctional Facility in Sydneys west on Wednesday. Credit: Nikki Short

She put her head in her hands and cried when the court heard the maximum penalty if convicted was four years jail.

Police started investigating the alleged incident on Tuesday after receiving reports a female teacher had sexually touched a 17-year-old boy, who was Braileys student. They arrested her at the south-western Sydney school on the same day.
Australian DJ Kitty Glitter with Kevin Rudd at his first Pride event as Australian ambassador to the US. Credit: Instagram

A tennis-themed party in April ahead of the White House Correspondents Dinner proved a hit among the citys media class. But the real showstopper was Rudds Pride Party at his residence in June last year, just months after the ambassador arrived in Washington. According to documents released under freedom of information, no expense was spared by the embassy in ensuring the event was a glitter-spangled banger.

But the Ruddster has made White Oaks mansion, the ambassadors residence in north-west Washington DC, one of the hottest tickets in the swamp.

When Kevin Rudd landed the plum role of ambassador to the United States last year, few wouldve imagined that the former prime minister would rebrand as a full-blown party animal.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spent nearly $US3000 ($4577) on balloon installations, one fashioned into a rainbow pride flag and another in a custom garland. The catering bill was just over $US7000.

But by far the biggest drawcard were the drag queens. The embassy flew drag DJ Kitty Glitter (or K-Glits) into DC, paying the performer $US2792 all up for their set, plus flights and incidentals. Fellow drag queen Crystal Edge also performed a set, for $US400.

More intriguing to us was the list of attendees, also released in the FOI docs. Aside from the usual DC suspects  officials from the White House, US State Department, Department of Defence, media types, other ambassadorial representatives, Kevin from Queensland also entertained a few guests from Capitol Hill. Largely Democrats as you might expect, most notably staff from the offices of senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Ed Markey.

The guest list shows a few Republicans put aside the partys deep fear of drag queens and general hostility to LGBTQ rights and showed up for a night of revelry. Staff from the offices of GOP congressman Kelly Armstrong and senators Tim Scott of South Carolina (who briefly ran for president in this years primaries) and Floridas Rick Scott were attendees.

The representation of the two Scotts (no relation) was particularly intriguing given the pair recently co-sponsored a bill that would restrict federal funding to schools which allowed students to change their gender pronouns. Which we guess speaks to the Ruddsters ability to throw a party.
Three-time Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter failed to show up for a flight to Europe with her partner before he found her dead at home on Tuesday, according to a friend.

Tributes from across the political divide continued to flow in for the 45-year-old rising Labor Party star, who was remembered for her influential charity work at Save the Children and as a tireless champion of Melbournes western suburbs.

Sarah Carter was known as a passionate voice for the western suburbs. Credit: Penny Stephens

Victoria Police confirmed it was preparing a report for the coroner after finding a womans body in an apartment on Village Way, Maribyrnong, at 3.45pm on Tuesday. Police are not treating the death as suspicious.

The cause of her death is not yet known.
West Australian Premier Roger Cook has walked back a commitment he made to block Woodsides Browse gas project if WAs independent environment watchdog found it posed unacceptable environmental risk.

Cook was quizzed about the $30 billion development off the Kimberley coast on Monday after this masthead revealed the states Environmental Protection Authority told Woodside in February that its preliminary view was the proposal off the Kimberley coast was unacceptable.

People rallied at WAs Parliament House on Tuesday against the Browse development and against any move to weaken the EPA.

The EPAs concerns included risks of noise impacting endangered whales, destruction of a nesting site for endangered turtles and an oil spill damaging the Scott Reef.

The premier was asked, Should it go ahead if the EPA finds an unacceptable risk of an oil spill or threat to whales and turtles?
Electra's eSTOL Goldfinch is First Piloted Electric Aircraft to Fly at NASA's Langley Research Center

Electra

and NASA are working together on advanced aviation technologies to bring

MANASSAS, Va., Aug. 7, 2024 -- Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra), a next-gen aerospace company committed to decarbonizing aviation and opening new air transportation markets, successfully demonstrated the flight capabilities of its EL-2 Goldfinch hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) technology demonstrator aircraft at NASA's historic Langley Research Center on Monday, July 15. The achievement marks the first flight of an electric aircraft with a pilot onboard at NASA Langley.

Electra and NASA are working together on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) research, demonstrations and information sharing under a NASA Space Act Agreement. In a separate effort, Electra is working under a NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project on solar-electric, high-altitude, long-endurance aircraft research called a "high-altitude platform station" or HAPS. Electra has also contributed to a NASA study on connecting communities into the national transportation network through Regional Air Mobility (RAM) using underutilized airports.

The flight demo for NASA Langley's research community showcased the eSTOL aircraft's use of distributed electric propulsion (DEP) with blown lift technology, which is capable of taking off and landing in under 150 feet. The demonstration highlighted the aircraft's hybrid-electric capabilities for longer range potential and battery-electric flight for quiet, community-friendly operations. Earlier that day, the aircraft completed the 120-mile cross-country flight from Electra's Manassas, VA facility to NASA in Hampton, VA using the hybrid propulsion system.

Electra is developing a 9-passenger eSTOL production aircraft designed to replace short- and medium-distance vehicle trips up to 500 miles with decarbonized, quiet and affordable air travel. This aircraft would be able to connect Northen Virginia to the Hampton Roads area in a quick 35-minute flight, rather than the 2.5 hours it takes to drive today.

"NASA is an incredible institution that has developed many of the foundational technologies underpinning today's aviation industry. They are now pioneering the future with advanced air mobility innovations," said JP Stewart, Electra's Vice President and General Manager. "We look forward to continuing our collaboration with them on new technologies that will extend seamless and convenient air travel to all communities."

About Electra

Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) is a next-gen aerospace company leading the way in sustainable urban and regional mobility. The company is building clean, hybrid-electric, short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) airplanes that fly people and cargo quieter, further, and more affordably. Electra's technology delivers 2.5x the payload and 10X longer range with 70% lower operating costs than vertical takeoff alternatives with far less certification risk. Electra's team includes some of the most respected and successful entrepreneurs and engineers in novel aircraft design, with over 40 prior aircraft successfully developed and/or certified. Its technology development is supported by Lockheed Martin Ventures, the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC), Statkraft Ventures, and other private investors in addition to contracts with NASA, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy.
2025 Acura RDX New Styling, Cabin Updates and Enhanced Technology

2025 Acura RDX gains more distinctive look with new "frameless" Diamond Pentagon grille and aggressive grille mesh

Functionality of center console enhanced with increased storage and easier access to wireless smartphone charger

New wide-screen mode added for standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

Acura today introduced its refreshed RDX performance SUV that takes the brand's popular 5-passenger SUV to an even higher level with sophisticated styling, updated cabin and enhanced technology. The 2025 Acura RDX gains a new "frameless" Diamond Pentagon grille and aggressive grille mesh for a more distinctive look. The cabin experience is improved with a redesigned center console with increased storage, larger cupholders and easier access to the wireless smartphone charger. Moreover, the standard 10.2-inch HD center display now includes a new wide-screen mode for its standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The 2025 RDX will begin arriving at Acura dealers nationwide later this month.

"This is the most premium RDX we've ever made," said Mike Langel, assistant vice president, Acura National Sales. "Our Acura performance SUV lineup has never been stronger as we continue to deliver on our commitment to advancing Precision Crafted Performance throughout the Acura lineup."

The Acura RDX has been an incredible success, with nearly 800,000 sold since it first came to market in 2006, and this year, RDX is one of the fastest growing models in its segment with sales up over 25%.

Styling Enhancements

Distinctive and sporty, the enhanced exterior styling of the new Acura RDX reflects the latest Acura design direction with a "frameless" Diamond Pentagon grille and more aggressive grille mesh. The standard RDX is further distinguished with premium gloss-black exterior trim. All RDX trims receive sportier wheel designs, including new standard Berlina Black 19-inch wheels. In addition, the 2025 RDX with Advance Package receives additional refinements with exclusive body-color lower exterior trim and redesigned Berlina Black Machine-finished 19-inch wheels with a distinct multi-spoke design.

The RDX A-Spec and A-Spec with Advance Package are designed for buyers who desire a sportier appearance with a more aggressive blacked-out exterior treatment, new 20-inch wheels and A-Spec badges. For additional visual attitude, new Berlina Black machine-finished 20-inch wheels are exclusive to the RDX A-Spec with Advance Package. RDX A-Spec features a new 10-spoke wheel design with a distinct Shark Gray finish.

The 2025 RDX is available in three exciting new paint colors: all-new Solar Silver Metallic, andnew to RDXCanyon River Blue Metallic and Urban Gray Pearl, which are also available on the extensively refreshed 2025 MDX.

Updated Cabin

The RDX cabin gains improved form and function with a redesigned center console that offers increased storage, larger cupholders and easier access to the wireless smartphone charger. In addition, the standard 10.2-inch HD center display now features a new wide-screen mode for its standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

For an even more premium experience, the top-of-the-line RDX with Advance Package and A-Spec with Advance Package now feature full-leather upholstery, additional ambient lighting on the new center console, and dramatically lit front- and rear-door speaker cones behind acid-etched speaker grilles.

In addition to the all-new features, the following are highlights of the 2025 Acura RDX:

RDX features the signature Acura four element JewelEye LED headlights and "Chicane" LED daytime running lights and brake lights.

Turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC 4-cylinder is one of the most powerful standard engines in its class with 272 hp (SAE net @ 6500 rpm) and 280 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 1600-4500 rpm), paired with a sport-tuned 10-speed automatic transmission.

Power is distributed through Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system with true torque vectoring. The rear-biased system is capable of sending up to 70% of torque to the rear axle, and 100% of that to the outside rear wheel for superior line trace.

Sport-tuned suspension and standard 19-inch wheels, available 20-inch wheels.

Available Adaptive Damper System with three different damping profiles.

Four-mode Integrated Dynamics System with Snow, Comfort, Normal and Sport modes.

High-tech interior with a standard 10.2-inch HD center display with True Touchpad Interface and new wide-screen mode, Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility and available Qi-compatible wireless charging.

Driver-focused cabin with available open-pore wood, Milano leather and 16-way power adjustable front seats.

Acura Iconic Drive ambient lighting, part of the Technology Package, offers 27 unique interior lighting color combinations including 24 inspired by iconic driving destinations around the world

Available 16-Speaker, 710-watt ELS STUDIO 3D premium audio system enhances the listening experience for front and rear passengers.

RDX sets the benchmark for both active and passive safety performance in the premium 5-passenger SUV class with the proprietary ACE body structure and the AcuraWatch suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies  all standard.

Standard AcuraWatch suite of advanced safety and driver assistive technologies includes blind spot information (BSI), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) system, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system, Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System, Traffic Sign Recognition and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.

RDX comes standard with the latest digital services including three years of AcuraLink Security and Remote packages, at no extra cost.

RDX Manufacturing

Designed and developed in America, the third-generation Acura RDX is manufactured* alongside the Acura MDX at the company's East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio. The 2.0-liter VTEC turbo engine that powers RDX is produced at the company's Anna Engine Plant in Ohio, while the SH-AWD system is manufactured at the Honda Transmission Plant in Ohio, with the 10-speed automatic transmission made in the Honda Transmission Plant in Georgia. The RDX was recently named among the Top 12 most American-made vehicles by Cars.com

* using domestic and globally-sourced parts

More information about the Acura RDX is available here.

About Acura

Acura is a leading automotive brand committed to delivering expressive styling, innovative engineering and engaging dynamics, all built on the brand's Precision Crafted Performance DNA. The Acura lineup consists of two sport sedans, the Integra and TLX, and three sport-utility vehicles, the RDX, MDX and all-electric ZDX. A fourth SUV, the ADX, will join the lineup as a new gateway model in 2025. High-performance Type S variants further demonstrate the virtues of Acura Precision Crafted Performance. All Acura vehicles sold in America are made in the U.S., using domestic and globally sourced parts
The son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway and stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, 27-year-old Marius, has dragged his family into a major scandal. On Sunday, he was arrested and held in a cell for 30 hours, and now he is accused of assaulting a woman.

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The scandalized man's mother has not been seen in public since the incident. According to the Daily Mail, she decided to temporarily postpone her trip to Paris for the 2024 Olympics.

Norwegian media reported that Marius was detained in an apartment in Oslo, where a 20-year-old woman called the police. The crown prince's stepson is preliminarily accused of assault. It is a case of psychological and physical violence, the journalists said.

The Norwegian publication reported that Marius was first charged with "bodily harm" and now with "causing damage." The fact is that the apartment where the police arrived was allegedly badly damaged.

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The victim was hospitalized and diagnosed with a concussion. At that time, Marius was held in solitary confinement for 30 hours while his blood was tested for drugs.

According to rumors, the 27-year-old is now in the royal estate of Skaugum with his 50-year-old mother. A lawyer has already been hired for him, and he has already commented on the case.

"The charge relates to assault, which is the least serious type of violence under the law. Neither my client nor I have been informed of all the details of the case, and on my advice, he has not yet testified," the human rights activist said.

Unlike his brother and sister, Marius does not fulfill royal obligations and does not claim the throne. He stepped down at the age of 20, after which he began to appear in public much less frequently.

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Ukrainian Greco-Roman fighter Zhan Beleniuk has reached the semifinals at the Olympic Games currently taking place in Paris. Our compatriot in the 87 kg weight category broke the resistance of Nursultan Tursinov from Uzbekistan - 7:3, losing 0:3 during the fight.

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The fight was not easy for our Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion. Just like in the 1/8 finals, Beleniuk looked closely at his opponent in the first period, which resulted in a warning for passivity. The referee put the Ukrainian on the ground, which the athlete from Uzbekistan managed to take advantage of, scoring two points and taking a three-point lead.

After a half-minute break, our compatriot attacked his opponent. The latter could not withstand the pressure and gave up the fight, also ending up on the floor. Here Jean felt like a fish out of water. He successfully executed three takedowns at once and earned precious six points.

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As a result, the 33-year-old from Kyiv celebrated his victory and reached the semifinals. His opponent in the battle for the decisive fight will be Iranian representative Alireza Mohmadipiani.

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Thanks to the Olympic Games, France has become a real tourist pilgrimage destination for the summer 2024 season. It is a truly unique country with a rich history, incredible landscapes and atmospheric medieval architecture.

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In addition to the traditional routes that include Paris, Loire castles, Lyon and Marseille, it is worth paying attention to little-known places where there is usually a minimal risk of encountering crowds of tourists. The Guardian has published a rating of the best routes that will help you to get to know the real France.

Chantel, Auvergne

In the village of Chantel, 65 km north of Clermont-Ferrand, you can feel the unique culinary taste of France. It is a real gourmet's paradise. Gastronomic tourism should start with farmers' markets offering game, pates, and wine. Don't forget to try fresh croissants from the colorful local boulangerie. A visit to Chantilly will be an unforgettable experience with hiking through the Gorge de la Boublee, swimming in the lake, farmers' markets in the surrounding villages and live music throughout the summer. Chantilly is also home to majestic abbeys and castles dating back to the Middle Ages that tell the story of the region.

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Roussillon, Luberon

The village of Roussillon near Luberon is a truly spectacular sight. Built on a steep red cliff, the village seems to be made entirely of ochre, and the buildings radiate a warm sunshine under the rays of the Provencal sun. Wander through the winding streets, admire the spectacular valley views and enjoy the gastronomic delights of the region.

Egisheim

Egisheim is located 80 km from Strasbourg. When you arrive there, it's as if you're in a fairy tale. Wherever you look, colors are everywhere, and you return to the fabulous imagination of your childhood. There are many cafes where you can enjoy appetizing and authentic crepe suites and traditional wine presses. Experts recommend traveling by Le Petit Train through the beautiful vineyards.

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The ruins of a medieval village in Peyrousses-les-Roches, Occitania

A 30-minute drive north of Villefranche-de-Rouergue is the village of Peyrousses-les-Roc with 200 inhabitants, an herb shop, a pottery workshop, and authentic shops. But this area is known primarily for its medieval ruins. The lower part of the village overlooks a valley with steep slopes where silver and lead mines used to be. There is also a former castle (captured by the English in 1163) that stands proudly above the ruins of the abbey. This city once had 4000 inhabitants - which is quite a lot for the period of the Middle Ages.

Collioure, Port d'Aval beach

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On a trip from Perpignan, you can stumble upon a little secret treasure of a beach town - Collioure, on the Vermillion coast between France and Spain. Imagine: a beach in a bay with calm sea, fish restaurants, a medieval city castle, and the peaks of the Pyrenees rising sharply above the village. There is even a museum of modern art with paintings by Matisse and a beautiful 17th-century bell tower that used to be a lighthouse overlooking the harbor.

Laurage near Toulouse

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In the beautiful Laurage region between Toulouse and Carcassonne, there is a town called Revel, located 50 km southeast of Toulouse. Every Saturday morning, one of the best markets in France unfolds there - and not just anywhere, but in a unique 14th-century market hall. There are hills and beautiful little villages like Sorez and Saint-Felix. In Villefranche de Lorraine you can take a train to Toulouse or Carcassonne.

Montflanquin

Approximately 40 km southeast of Bergerac is the town of Montflanken, which hosts an annual medieval festival in August. Enjoy reenactments, craft markets, and traditional music against the backdrop of beautiful stone buildings from an ancient era. You can stay at Domaine de Pautard, a picturesque chateau with a swimming pool tucked away in the peaceful countryside.

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Larocque de Albert

Not far from the popular seaside resort of Argeles-sur-Mer near Perpignan, unspoiled mountain villages await you. From the charming chateau of the village of Larocque de Albere, you can take a two-hour trail to Le Chalet de l'Albere, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Albere Mountains and classic French dishes served in a beautiful rustic restaurant.

Lubejak

This region offers some of the finest countryside dining in southwestern France. Head up to the small hilltop village of Loubejac in the Lot department. Local producers have everything you need for a cheap and tasty dinner: from grilled duck, garlic potatoes and salads to cheeses and local fruits.

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Saint-Cenery-le-Gereuil, Normandy

Saint-Senerie-le-Gereuil is located to the west of Alanson. Take a walk to the church to see the stunning views before following the path down to the small chapel nestled in the middle of a dense forest. The beauty of the village attracted many artists who stayed at the Auberge des Surs Moisy, a so-called artists' shelter that is now a museum. There are several bars and restaurants in its narrow winding streets. This area is ideal for those looking for peace and inspiration.

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The Russians continue to panic over the loss of control of at least four border settlements in the Kursk region. The shelling is already taking place near the town of Sudzha, the Russian military is trying to keep the AFU fighters away from the settlement, and the town's population has been almost completely evacuated.

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This is stated in the military channels of the Russian Federation. As of the morning of August 7, the occupiers admitted that it was not possible to drive the 'unknown' rebels out of the Kursk region.

In connection with the situation on the border, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will hold a meeting of the Russian Security Council at 13:00 Moscow time.

According to Z-bloggers, control over a number of settlements in the Russian Federation has been lost. As of the morning of August 7, administrative buildings, a hospital, power lines, and residential buildings were damaged in the town of Sudzha as a result of the fighting.

Several UAVs reportedly attacked Voronezh region, and many of them are constantly flying over the Kursk region. The Russian Federation stated that its air defense forces shot down 3 UAVs and 4 missiles during the night.

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The Ukrainian military is currently present in 11 settlements in the Kursk region at a depth of up to 15 km.

As of 11 a.m., air raid alert has been declared in the Kursk region four times. The local population is asked to stay in shelters.

Russians express their frustration online

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova blamed the attack on the Kursk region on the Ukrainian Armed Forces and said it was a "terrorist attack against civilians."

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Russian bloggers responded to Zakharova's words by saying that the offensive in the Kursk region was not a "terrorist attack" but an invasion of Russian territory.

"Dear Ms. Zakharova. Let me disagree with you - the attack of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the Kursk region cannot be another terrorist attack, as the Ukrainian Armed Forces are a regular military formation of a foreign state. This is an invasion of the territory of the Russian Federation," the message reads.

At the same time, former Ukrainian politician and traitor Oleg Tsarev wrote on his Telegram that after the events in the Kursk region, Russia should declare war on Ukraine.

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"The invasion should be taken very seriously. I repeat. Invasion of the territory of the Russian Federation means an automatic declaration of war. Isn't it time to declare war?" the separatist writes.

At the same time, the social media pages of the acting governor of Kursk region, Alexey Smirnov, and local channels were flooded with users complaining about the lack of shelters in the region. Comments from outraged Russians began to appear after yesterday's massive shelling of the town of Sudzha.

"When will you install shelters? How long will you mock people?", "Where are the shelters? All night long there were attacks and in the morning the air raid alert were constant!", "It's time to put concrete shelters in our city! People are standing at bus stops, whole crowds of them," Russians are indignant.

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Ordinary Russians do not understand what is happening and complain about the lack of any explanations and support from the authorities.

"I wonder what laws and documents are in effect in the Sudzhansky district today? What is going on here in general? Is it a state of emergency? CTO (Counterterrorism Operation)? Or what? Why are those who are supposed to work with the population silent? Why are you still in your warm chairs?

The military will deal with the devils that are trying to destroy our home. And you, officials, when are you going to start working?" people express their indignation in local channels.

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Russia is trying to predict further events in Kursk region

The Russian military commander said that the Russian troops are currently trying to predict the direction of the main attack of the Ukrainian army and calculate the enemy's actions. So far, such phrases as "uncertainty of the tactical situation" have been used.

"It is worth paying attention to the situation in the direction of Hlukhiv - Rylsk. If the enemy starts active operations in this direction, which cannot be ruled out, the ultimate goal of the entire operation of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will become obvious - the city of Kurchatov and the nuclear power plant. This is a kind of retaliation for the ZNPP and the Chernobyl NPP. The logic is to take Kurchatov and bargain with Russia over Enerhodar and anything else," he writes.

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According to the Russian military commander, if Ukrainian troops start moving in this direction, it will become clear that the rebels are planning to move on Kurchatov with an attempt to capture Rylsk and Sudzha.

He also noted that border guards and terrorist defense are holding the border in the Kursk sector.

"During the entire day of the combat operations summary, I did not see any mention of the 'Tik Tok troops'. A week ago, Akhmat soldiers were dancing in Sudzha, shooting in the air. I do not know where these people are now," the military commander wrote.

He noted that Ukrainian troops are currently focused on trying to take control of the district center of Sudzha.

"There are few options to stop this breakthrough. I would like to emphasize the logistics of the enemy, which has the ability to quickly transfer forces and funds over long distances within a few days. This is a serious lever that should not be underestimated," the military commander noted.

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Russian politician Sergey Markov also said that the Ukrainian Armed Forces have already occupied 5 settlements and are preparing to move on. The rebels have allegedly created a powerful group of 5 brigades to further develop the offensive. According to him, Ukrainian troops will try to attack the town of Sudzha. The Russian army is moving reinforcements to the Kursk region.

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"So far, it is only clear that there are heavy battles and will be even heavier," the politician writes.

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RD1 Spirits announces new research and development master distiller role

Lexington-based bourbon brand RD1 Spirits has announced the creation of a new role  research and development master distiller.

Former University of Kentucky distilling researcher Jarrad Gollihue PhD will lead the position, overseeing RD1s wood-finishing operations and experiments with new woods at RD1 Distillery at The Commons, set to open in January 2025.

Upon opening, the RD1 Distillery at The Commons will include an 800-gallon pot still at the hub of the operation, as well as a 175-gallon pot still, a 750-gallon fermenter and a 1,000-gallon mash cooker.

RD1 Distillery at The Commons will be a giant playground for me, said Gollihue, who is also leading the build-out efforts of the facility. Ive always been fascinated with distillation science  changing variables in fermentation and cooking temperatures  and natures powerful role in creating bourbon. For me, working on two things at the same time  novel wood and its natural influence on whiskey  is my way of using science to produce art.

The new role will have no effect on the brands Kentucky Straight Bourbon, which will continue to be crafted by master distiller Jacob Call at Western Kentucky Distilling.

RD1 director of product innovation Don Hardwick added: Dr Gollihue is one of a kind in this industry. His specific focus from crop to finished cases is a natural complement to our brands unique interest. Its a beautiful marriage of the science of our land and Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

7 August 2024 - Bradley Weir
By Mata Press Service

British Columbia is introducing new protections for international students by setting higher standards and more rigorous requirements for institutions enrolling international students.

Among these protections is a new Education Quality Assurance (EQA) code of practice, which will require institutions to meet higher standards for student support and protection in order to be eligible to enrol international students.

New strengthened standards include:

clear and accurate marketing and promotional information;

accountability for education agents;

tuition transparency; and

better information about student supports, including academic and housing support, well-being and health.

Our commitment is clear: were dedicated to upholding the integrity of B.C.s education sector and protecting international students, said Ravi Parmar, Parliamentary Secretary for International Credentials.

I want international students to know that weve got their back.

The new measures include guidelines for public institutions, as well as targeted measures for private institutions.

Some of the guidelines issued for public institutions include:

limiting international enrolment to 30% of an institutions total enrolment;

providing tuition-fee transparency to prevent unexpected international student fee increases; and

requiring the development of new international education strategic plans, improved student services, housing supports, and standards to ensure Indigenous and domestic students are not displaced.

The EQA designation certifies that institutions meet or exceed the institutional quality assurance standards set by the Province and is required for all public and private institutions enrolling international students.

International students come to British Columbia hoping for a great education experience and many hope to enter the workforce after they complete their studies, said Prince Solanki, an international student from Camosun College and external executive with the student society. Ensuring students have access to a range of services and supports along the way is critical to ensuring they succeed and thrive. The strengthened standards being introduced by the B.C. government are one more welcome addition to strengthen the protections offered to international students like me.

According to the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), in 2023, 20% of Canadas international students studied in the province of BC. This includes more than 217,600 international postsecondary students from more than 150 countries, approximately 111,900 of whom are at public institutions and 105,700 who study at private institutions.

The Vancouver Sun recently reported that international students from 150 countries make up nearly 40 percent of the 533,000 students enrolled in British Columbias post-secondary institutions, including private colleges and trade schools.

For international students, tuition fees can be four times higher, or more, than those for domestic students. For instance, at the University of British Columbia, an international student can expect to pay $45,000 a year in tuition, which is nearly five times more than what a domestic student pays. At Kwantlen Polytechnic University, the international tuition fee of over $21,000 a year is 4.5 times higher than the fee for domestic students.

International students spent around $37.3 billion on tuition, accommodation, and discretionary items and contributed $7.4 billion in tax revenue in 2022, according to recently released data from the Government of Canada.

Despite these significant contributions, Canada is reassessing the number of long-term visas granted to foreign students, reflecting the government's intention to moderate immigration and population growth.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller said that although Canada has for years used universities and colleges to bring in educated, working-age immigrants, study visas shouldnt imply a guarantee of future residency or citizenship.

Canada is now being seen as less welcoming as it has been before for students, Miller said. But the update of that, he said, is that a study visa is less and less being seen as a cheap way to attain permanent residency or entry into Canada, and more of a qualitative proposition  which is where we want to see it go back, to its original intent.

His statements reflect a shift in Canada's approach to international education, as the government seeks to refine its immigration policies.

Miller suggested that the focus should be on attracting high-quality talent and providing a clearer understanding of what studying in Canada entails, rather than viewing it as an easy route to permanent residency

According to the new government report, the analysis indicates that international students' contributions to Canadas economy continue to grow.

In line with an increasing number of international students, overall spending more than doubled between 2016 and 2022, from $15.5 billion to $37.3 billion, representing an increase of 15.7% per year, the report stated.

However, starting in 2024, Canada has imposed a temporary two-year limit on the number of new study permits issued and will only issue 364,000 such permits for the year.

The governments rationale for these changes is that the rising number of international students has put significant pressure on Canadas infrastructure, including housing and healthcare.

There have also been concerns about the quality of education at some institutions, particularly private colleges.

These changes aim to slow the growth rate of international student admissions, allowing for improvements in infrastructure and ensuring educational offerings remain high-quality.
AMBAZARI BRIDGE COMPLETION DELAYEDBridge to open by September 30, says contractor





 Staff Reporter :

IN A disappointing information, the completion of the four-lane Ambazari bridge has been delayed. Despite the administrations assurances that the bridge would open to traffic by August 30, the contractor has now stated that the road will not be accessible until September 30.This delay is sure to increase the inconvenience for the residents ofWest Nagpur and other road users grappling with severe traffic jams. The contractors announcement came during a meeting of infrastructure contractors convened by Dr Ravinder Singal, Commissioner of Police, at the Police Bhavan on Tuesday. Deputy Commissioner of Police (T raffic) Shashikant Satav expressed his frustration over the delay during the meeting. The completion deadline was set for August 30 as per the contract. Its imperative that the work is done on time, Satav stressed. However, the contractors response was less than reassuring. We will not be able to finish the work by the original deadline. The bridge will be opened for traffic only by September 30, the contractor said during the meeting.

Dr Singal probed further into the reasons behind the delay. Are you facing a shortage of labour or materials? he asked. The contractor explained that the delay was due to the timerequired for the concrete to set properly.We received the workorder up to March 11, 2025, and are aiming to complete thebridge by September 30,thecontractor clarified. The contractor also underlined additional complications. The design we received fromthe Public Works DesignDepartment made it impossible to complete half of the work. Additionally, there were sevento eight 33 kV power lines fromMSETCL running through thesite, which caused a monthlong delay, he said.

In response, Dr Singal soughtassurances from MSETCL officials, who promised to cooperate with the contractor to expedite the work. The bridge, once completed, will feature a widened span of 21 meters with threebox type channels and an increased height of 7 meters. The delay comes as a major blow to the residents of West Nagpur, who have been facing worsening traffic conditions due to the ongoing construction. The small lanes of West Nagpur have become increasingly congested, with more four-wheelers than usual navigating through them. In an effort to alleviate traffic issues, the Bombay High Court recently directed that the road inside VNIT be opened for two-wheelers. The High Court had also previously instructed authorities to expedite the bridge construction work. Despite these directives, the involved agencies have failed to meet the prescribed deadlines
Bdesh President dissolves Parlt





By Anisur Rahman

DHAKA,

BANGLADESH President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday dissolved the Parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following massive protests against her Government. The President dissolved the Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament) under an executive order, a Bangabhaban (presidential palace) spokesman told PTI. The decision to dissolve the Parliament was taken following the Presidents discussions with chiefs of three staff of Armed Forces, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of the AntiDiscrimination Student Movement, said a statement issued by the presidents office. Officials said a full-fledged interim government is expected to be announced soon. The Presidents move to dissolve the Parliament has cleared the way for fresh elections.

The spokesman also said Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief and ex-premier Khaleda Zia was freed from house arrest. The 79-year-old former Prime Minister has long battled various ailments, including issues related to the kidney, lung and heart. The process to release those arrested Since July 1 has started, and many have already been released, he added. The Students Against Discrimination group earlier set a deadline for dissolving the 12th Parliament which was formed after the January 7 elections installing Hasina as the premier for the fourth straight term. In a video posted on social media early Tuesday, Nahid Islam, one of the key coordinators of the movement, 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. 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 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. He 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.

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. 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, the death toll in the anti-Government protests onTuesday climbed to 440, with 100 more deaths reported after Hasinas departure, according to local media, even as efforts were on by the army to bring the situation under control in the violence-hit nation. At least 24 people were burnt alive last night in a hotel owned by a leader of Awami League in western Joshor district, hospital sources said. Despite the high death toll, there were signs of a return to normalcy onTuesday, with police and army patrolling the streets, BDNews24.Com news portal said.
Dengue andchikungunyaNatl team tohold survey





Staff Reporter :

TAKING serious cognisance of the rising cases of dengue and chikungunya, a team of National Centre for Vectorborne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) is conducting vector survey at Nagpurs Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport and the area that comes under Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC).The purpose of this survey is to ascertain the Aedes mosquito-free status. Three officials of the team have already arrived on Monday at Nagpur. The teams focus will be on the areas at airport and surrounding areas. According to sources, therewere reports that some air passengers were found to be suffering from dengue.

Nagpur isfacing the outbreak of dengue and chikungunya. It is known that Aedes mosquito causes dengue or chikungunya. The teamwill be visiting inner part of the airport and the outerarea of the airport that comesunder Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC). An important meeting of these officials will be held on Wednesday with the team of Airport Public Health Officer, its staff, stakeholders and pest control staff of the airport after the survey. Nagpur is witnessing more cases of chikungunya than that of dengue.

This year, Nagpur witnessed increased humidity due to which people did not keep water-coolers aside. In most homes, the coolers still have water stored, plus puddles created by rain water creates mosquitos breeding sites. The daily home to home visit by NMCs health team is identifying the mismanagement bypeople. Dr Rajan Barokar, Critical Care specialist withKIMS-Kingway Hospital explained, We are getting a lot of cases of chikungunya. Most people are coming in a position where they need immediate admission. To avoid suchemergencies, people shouldimmediately consult their doctors when they experience fever, cough, joint pains. Though thedisease is not fatal, people needto take well care of themselves.
REAL ISSUE





THE real issue in Bangladesh is only partly Bangladesh. In international realpolitik, the real issue is how India conducts itself in the current situation. For, whatever happens in Bangladesh is daring India directly to demonstrate its faith in its own democratic philosophy and rising military and economic prowess over the past decade or so. So, what is on test is Indias readiness to get engaged in a proactive diplomacy and aggressive international politics in the larger interest of the subcontinental region. In other words, what is on test is whetherIndia had been indulging in mere rhetoric about its own growing strength, or has the actual ability to convert talk into walk. Sensing the seriousness of the current challenge,Indianleadership alsois engagedin deep thinking about how it would face the situation. But what the situation calls for is courage and ability to straighten out thecomplexcomponentsofdiplomaticmetaphor.There are enoughreasons to believe thatover time,Indiahas accumulated it. Now is the time to put it to best use.

Of course, India does not harbour any trans-border, territorial ambitions.But that also doesnotmean thatit should beonly apassivewatcherof events across theline.For,knowing the manner of human influx into India time and again, and particularly in times of crisis in the neighbourhood, India will have to be ready to stop it at the border so that itsinternal economy and security are not threatened or burdened.However, knowing the nature of subcontinental politics, only keeping a tightwatch on the border to stall human influx will be too limited an objective. That would mean, in other words, running faster at the same spot -- which is by itself a tougher ball-game. There is little doubt that in the next some weeks, the situationinBangladeshwill getworse every passing day.There willbewanton killings,mass violence andlooting and arson. There also will be vandalising of statues and institutions in the most thoughtless manner. And the overall direction of the happenings within the troubled country will somehow have an anti-Indian tinge, to say the least. For, pulling down the tall andwell-made statue of Banga bandhu SheikhMujib Ur Rehman, the founder of Bangladesh (with the help of excavator booms), is nothing but an expression of a deepseated anti-India sentiment -- fanned and fostered by elements supported by Pakistani masterminds. And the fact that Prime Minister Mrs. Hasina Wajed has reached the safe haven of India has become all the more a reason for an anti-India feeling rising in its crescendo in Bangladesh.

To make matters worse, anIndian cultural centre named after Mrs. Indira Gandhi -- the liberator of Bangladesh --hasbeenvandalised,in addition to fourHindu temples.Cumulatively, all these account for a strong provocation for India to take some firm steps -- in its own territorial and cultural protection and preservation. orial and cultural protection and preservation. But as Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar has rightlysaid,Indiawouldnot take anyprecipitatestepsbefore having a full consultation with Mrs. Hasina Wajed staying at themomentinIndia.Thissmall assertionofDr.Jaishankar points to the manner in which India may want to deal with the situation. It will be preposterous to ask for an armed action from the Indian security forces into Bangladesh at this stage. But one also cannot assure that such a stage may never come in the near future. For, if the actions in the troubled Bangladesh give the impression of a strong anti-India sentiment that may harm Indian interest in long term, New Delhi may have to make a hard choice and march into Bangladesh to take control of the situation. That, however, will depend on Indias own self-image and self-worth.
RSS seeks safety measuresfor Hindus in Bangladesh





 Staff Reporter :

RSS, VHP request Centre to take appropriate measures

BHAIYYAJI Joshi, Member of All India Executive Committee of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Tuesday said that RSS has requested Central Government to ensure safety of the Hindus in Bangladesh. The country is facing anarchylike situation due to political turmoil. It is being reported that the minority Hindu community is being targeted, Joshi pointed out while interacting with mediapersons onTuesday. Joshi further elaborated, Bangladesh is a different country.

There are limitations as to what voluntary organisations can do from here. But we are requesting the (Indian) Government to ensure safety of the Hindus over there. We are confident that the Government will take steps towards it. To a question about whether Hindus were being targeted in the neighbouring country amid widespread unrest and resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Joshi made it clear that it was so, and news reports about such incidents are coming out. Similar demand has been made by Alok Kumar, senior lawyer and International President of Vishwa Hindu Parishad ( VHP). He expressed fear that Hindus homes, establishments, temples, gurudwaras, women, children are not safe. Centre should take serious cognisance. The condition of minority Hindus is getting bad, pointed out Alok Kumar. According to Alok Kumar, there are chances of infiltration from Bangladesh side against the backdrop of present situation there, considering which Central Government should take appropriate measures immediately
Wayanad disaster: Toll reaches 402





WAYANAD,

THE rescue operations in landslide-affected four villages of Keralas Wayanad entered the eighthdayonTuesdaywith the death toll reaching 402 and around 170 still missing. The over 1,200-strong rescue team comprising personnel from all theDefence forces, NDRF, SDRF, police, fire services and volunteers began searches early in the morning in the fourworst-affectedareas in Churalmala, Velarimala, Mundakayil and Punchirimadom. Special teams have been searchingin theChaliyarRiver fromwhere several bodies and dismemberedbodypartswere recovered in the past few days.

DNA tests are being conducted on all such body parts. In over 100 relief camps, mostly set up in various educational institutions in and around the affected areas,over 10,300 people have been housed. State Revenue Minister on Tuesday said the Local Self Government ( LSG) department has now been asked to give a list of buildings belonging to theGovernmentbesides identifying homes that are presentlylockedandalsoinformation about the number of resorts in the locality. The State Education MinisterV Sivankutty is reaching here and we will soon decide on how the educational needs will go ahead. The standardoperatingprocedures will bein place. At themoment mostof thesereliefcampsoperatein educationalinstitutions. Once we get the list from the LSG department,wewillmove the people to resorts, closed homes and such places, said Rajan.

We assure that none of the people in the affected places will beleft uncared.The weeklycabinetmeetingwillbe held online on Wednesday, where more decisions with regards to rehabilitation will be made and Chief Minister PinarayiVijayanwill announce it, added Rajan. Even as the rescue operations entered the eighth day, this will go on till the Army takes a final call. Meanwhile, help is pouring into the Chief Minister Distress Relief Fund and the decision has come that all State Government employees will contribute their salaries of five days to it.

The search operations on Tuesday will be more concentrated on the Chaliyar river basin with a special team on helicopterscanning thewaterbody forbodiesor remains, the district administration said. District Collector MeghashreeDRtoldreporters that the search operations will be concentrated on the river near the school, village and downstream areas. Intensivesearchoperations are going on, she said. ADGP MRAjithkumar said that there were inaccessible areas along the Chaliyar river where some local volunteers were stranded in the last couple of days and had to be rescued. So, we decided to avoid local volunteers andcreate two teams of police SOG and Army commandos who will be air dropped into those areas. If they find any bodies, the same will be airlifted from there, Ajithkumar said.
There are many professional holidays in the world that celebrate the merits of representatives of various industries. One of them is Miner's Day.

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Miners perform one of the most important functions in ensuring the country's energy security by extracting coal and other minerals from the depths of the earth. The history and date of their holiday was told by Dilova Myslova.

Origin and date of the holiday

The history of Miner's Day dates back to Soviet times, when the authorities decided to recognize the merits and contribution of miners to the country's industrialization. This holiday was approved on September 10, 1947, at the request of the Ministers of Coal Industry of the USSR. The first celebration took place on August 29, 1948.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the tradition of celebrating Miner's Day was preserved. For example, in Ukraine, in 1993, it was established that it would be held annually on the last Sunday of August. In other words, in 2024, the date of this professional holiday is August 25.

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In mining districts and cities, Miner's Day is celebrated with festive events, concerts, meetings with veterans of mining labor, and the presentation of awards and honors to the best workers in the industry.

The historical path of Ukrainian miners

Ukraine has a long history of mining. It started in the territory of Kievan Rus in the second half of the 15th century. The first expedition to the Pechersk region to search for minerals was organized by Grand Duke Ivan III of Moscow in 1491.

With the development of technology and the growing need for coal, the number of mines increased significantly, and the profession of a miner became one of the most popular. Thus, by the end of the XIX century, mining occupied one of the central places among other key sectors of Ukrainian industry.

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Tourism is one of the largest sectors of the global economy, attracting millions of people to different parts of the world every year. However, the popularity of some places sometimes has negative consequences.

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Some European cities are traditionally considered to be among the most popular tourist destinations. The Mirror has learned which ones are trying to limit the flow of travelers to their territory.

Communities across Europe are struggling with the consequences of overtourism. Crowds, high rental prices, noise, etc. have all contributed to the fact that some cities have begun to introduce restrictive measures for visitors. Their goal is usually to preserve historical and cultural monuments and improve living conditions for the local population.

Italy

Italy has taken various measures in recent years to combat excessive tourism. In Venice, UNESCO warned of possible "irreversible damage" to the historic center, so an entrance fee of 5 euros was introduced for daytime visitors. In 2019, cruise ships were also banned from entering the city center.

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In Portofino, tourists who take selfies in popular Instagram locations are fined to avoid traffic jams. Rome has introduced new rules for tourists, which are subject to fines for non-compliance: it is forbidden to go topless, eat "messy" food, or leave love locks.

Sardinia banned walking on the pink sands of Spiaggia Rosa, and Florence banned the use of Airbnb and short-term private rentals in the city center, etc.

Greece

Since Athens is a popular vacation destination, it is not surprising that measures have been taken to prevent excessive tourism. Since September 2023, the number of people visiting the Acropolis has been limited to 20,000 per day. To reduce the number of people traveling to the ancient landmark, visitors must now book their visit time slot in advance.

And the islands of Santorini and Mykonos have limited the number of cruise ships to reduce the flow of tourists.

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Austria

In the Austrian city of Hallstatt, measures have been taken to reduce the number of tourists visiting the picturesque area. In the most popular photo spot, which overlooks the lake shore, wooden fences have been built to block the view.

The city is under UNESCO protection, but on average, 10,000 people visit it a day. Therefore, the authorities also limited the number of tourist buses and cars allowed to enter the city.

The Netherlands

The latest measures in Amsterdam's campaign against "excessive tourism" include setting limits on the number of river cruises that pass through the capital's waterways. It is also planned to ban the construction of new hotels and restrict the entry and stay of tourists in the city.

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Spain

Barcelona has introduced a municipal tourist tax in the amount of 5.25 to 6.75 euros per night. The capital of Catalonia has also reduced the number of cruise ships and plans to eliminate short-term tourist rentals by the end of the decade.

At the same time, Seville plans to charge an entrance fee to the historic Plaza de Espana. Protests against tourism continue in Mallorca, so the authorities are expected to introduce new measures.

France

French Minister of Tourism Olivia Gregoire recently presented a roadmap to combat "excess tourism". It included measures to regulate tourist flows and support local authorities that experienced a surge in visitors last June.

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UK

Cornwall faces an excessive flow of visitors every year, so now some Cornish natives are facing a proposal for mandatory registration. In March last year, the government also proposed to allocate 160 million to suppress "problematic" behavior.

Croatia

Dubrovnik has introduced new measures for vacationers, prohibiting them from wearing swimsuits, eating and drinking near cultural attractions, and climbing city walls. All of these offenses are punishable by fines and criminal prosecution. Visitors also have to pay 2.65 euros per night from April to September.

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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had previously planned to visit Israel. A tentative date was set, but the visit was postponed at the initiative of the Ukrainian side.

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This was stated by Israeli Ambassador to Ukraine Michael Brodsky. In an interview withRBC-Ukraine, he noted that when Hamas terrorists carried out a large-scale attack on October 7, 2023, the head of the Ukrainian state appealed to world leaders and called on them to come to Israel to support the people.

Kyiv's position was "definitely noticed" in Jerusalem, Brodsky assured.

"Ukraine, as I have said in many interviews, is one of the most pro-Israeli countries in Europe. We feel this at all levels, and what is especially important is that we feel it in terms of Ukrainian public opinion, which is clearly on the side of Israel. And we appreciate the President's call, made immediately after October 7, for world leaders to come to Israel and show solidarity.

Unfortunately, the president himself has not yet come to Israel. We hope that this visit will take place. We will be happy to see President Zelensky in Israel at any time," the ambassador said.

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There is currently no new date for the Ukrainian president's visit to Israel.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

- The Institute for the Study of War said that the Russian Federation continues to coordinate and cooperate militarily with Iran before its retaliatory strike against Israel. The Kremlin is concerned with its own interests in the region and is also trying to influence the West to reduce aid to Ukraine.

- At the same time, Kremlin dictator Vladimir Putin allegedly asked Iran to respond to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Ghani with more restraint.

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The offensive of the Russian Federation's troops in eastern Ukraine has already been delayed. In about a month and a half to two months, it should begin to decline.

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Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, voiced his prediction while speaking to graduates of the Kyiv School of Economics. The details of the closed meeting, which took place on July 28, were shared by Forbes Ukraine on August 7.

"The main pressure should be over in a month and a half to two months because the offensive has already been delayed," the head said.

He pointed to military experience, "Any side cannot sustain its offensive potential for more than two months."

Thus, as the offensive operations of the aggressor state are approaching three months, we should expect a decrease in the occupiers' activity.

"But we know that there will be new attempts by the enemy to attack after the decline and a short lull. And we are preparing for this," Budanov warned.

The Ukrainian Defense Forces will influence the further situation. "Will we just sit and wait for four or five months to pass and everything will happen again or will w be proactive?" the lieutenant general asked.

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At a meeting with KSE master's graduates, Budanov also assured that "the war will definitely end" because "it is a natural process."

Earlier, Budanov said that the Russian offensive in the north of Kharkiv region was an attempt to create a buffer zone and that the enemy's presence in this area of the front is "a matter of time". He also reminded that Russia is making every effort to destroy Ukraine's energy sector, and Russian strikes could significantly complicate the operation of the energy system. However, the enemy will not succeed in completely destroying our energy sector, Budanov is confident.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!

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Ukrainian defenders did indeed shoot down an occupier's helicopter using a drone controlled by FPV (first-person view) piloting. It was a Russian Mi-28 that fell on the border of the Kursk region of the Russian Federation, and this is the first such confirmed case.

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The video provided by the military was posted on the Telegram channel by blogger and volunteer Serhii Strenenko. At the same time, he criticized those who prematurely disseminated the footage.

"The creature that leaked the video of the Russian Mi-28 being shot down using FPV will be found and will face very unpleasant procedures. It was the work of a long drone that you donated to. And some other plans are now under threat because of the downpour," the activist explained.

However, he added that since the leak had already occurred, the military and volunteers prepared the video in normal quality and decided to make it public. The FPV footage shows that the drone came close to the Russian helicopter from the tail and hit it against a yellow field.

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The day before, a photo was posted on social media showing our fighters' FPV drone just seconds before it was hit by a Russian Mi-28 in the tail. The loss of the helicopter was also reported by Russian propagandists: according to them, it was indeed hit on the Kursk border, but it was supposedly undergoing repairs, and the crew allegedly managed to escape.

Ukrainian channels also confirm the downing of the occupiers' helicopter by an FPV drone.

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"Yeah, bro, we can say it for sure, the first case of a helicopter being shot down by an FPV drone has indeed been recorded. The nature and location of the damage coincide with the drone's detonation, judging by its video," wrote an Armed Forces lieutenant with the call sign "Alex" on his personal channel "Officer".

When the video spread prematurely online, it was eventually posted by volunteer Serhii Sternenko, who is organizing a fundraiser to buy FPV drones for the Ukrainian defense.

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"This is also why we are raising money for the "sky cutter of Russians". The one who leaked this to the network endangers the operators," he said, again criticizing the leak.

The "sky cutter of Russians" is one of the most important fundraisers announced by Sternenko's community during the war. Its goal is to raise 70 million hryvnias for FPV interceptors to buy at least 2,500 drones to shoot down Russian reconnaissance UAVs.

It is also worth recalling an episode in early September 2023, when an FPV drone operator from the Magyar Birds unit tried to shoot down a Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter in an unexpected encounter in the sky. The enemy machine managed to escape, but the colonel of the Madiar unit said that sooner or later the FPV drone would reach such a difficult target. The defender's prediction came true almost a year later, but it should be noted that this is an officially confirmed case.

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As OBOZ.UA reported earlier, Forbes wrote that the Armed Forces of Ukraine had shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter in the occupied Donetsk region with an FPV drone. Analysts pointed out that the operation was successful due to the high skill of Ukrainian UAV operators and carefully thought-out tactics.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Google will appeal a Washington, D.C. judges ruling that it is a monopoly. The corporation is far from happy with the decision, which marks a shift that has recently taken place in the United States regarding the regulation of aggressive practices among major technology companies. The firms modus operandi has long been questioned in the European Union, which instituted ad hoc regulation that allows it to act more quickly and forcefully  as with the Digital Markets Act (DMA)  and has proposed requiring Alphabet, Googles parent company, to split up its advertising business. The company behind the internets ubiquitous search engine is not alone in facing charges over what authorities call anti-competitive practices: Amazon, Apple, Meta and Microsoft are in the same boat.

After Mondays U.S. ruling, whose penalties have yet to be announced, the spotlight is currently on Alphabet and its search engine. In its statement on the ruling, the company said: This decision recognizes that Google offers the best search engine. Given this, and that people are increasingly looking for information in more and more ways, we plan to appeal, it announced.

The company has also been the target of lawsuits and antitrust charges in Brussels, including a European Union Commission for Competition probe that has been ongoing since 2021. Its been levied with some of the largest fines in the history of the European Commission, more than $8.7 billion stemming from three cases that, for now, the company has barely managed to lower in court. At the end of the summer, the final ruling on one of those cases is expected: the probe into Google Shopping, which resulted in a $2.64 billion fine over the illegal advantage Google gave to its comparison shopping service via its search engine.

The biggest question related to the European Commission lawsuits is whether the Californian company will be forced to split up its business. Such an outcome was suggested in a statement of objections sent just over a year ago, which considered the companys presence throughout the digital advertising chain so overwhelming that the Commission concluded it was the abuse of a dominant position and that only the mandatory divestment by Google of part of its services would address its competition concerns. Few in Brussels doubt that the Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Competition, Margrethe Vestager, would like to settle the matter before the arrival of the new Commission, which will in theory take place on November 1, and of which she will not be a member.

But the threat of the forced divestment of Googles advertising activity is not only being posed in Europe. The U.S. Department of Justice and eight other states (Virginia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Tennessee) have also demanded such a split in a lawsuit that is currently being heard in Virginia courts.

That would be a structural change in the market, notes Juan Jose Ganuza, professor of economics and business at Barcelonas Universitat Pompeu Fabra, who says that such an outcome is gaining supporters among academics who study markets and competition. Ganuza, who is also the director of markets, regulation and competition at Funcas, a Spanish economic research institute, says that these kinds of solutions and remedies [the Commission of Competitions technical term for corrective measures] have more precedent in the United States than in Europe.

Alphabet and its affiliates are not alone in facing such possibilities. In fact, in Europe, during the last few months, more and more tech firms are facing intense regulatory scrutiny. For example, on July 1, the European Commission announced an investigation into Metas Instagram and Facebook advertising model. It did so under new regulation that shifted the burden of proof, meaning that large companies cannot resort to delaying investigation and enforcement processes for years to the point that, by the time a final resolution is reached, the market has already changed.

Today, this decision is being applied all over the world. The United Kingdom has also settled on it, explains Ganuza, who clarifies that in the United States, the Biden administration has changed the basic precepts of competition regulation policy to make it more consumer-friendly. That means, the professor points out, that the November elections between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris could have major ramifications in this area.

For Meta, the stakes are higher in the United States, where the Federal Trade Commission and 40 states went to court in 2021 over its acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp.

Similarly, Apple is being scrutinized on both sides of the Atlantic in lawsuits that are similar, at least when it comes to their bottom line: that the California-based technological giant makes it difficult for other companies to offer alternatives to its own products. Until recently, Apple had not received large fines from Brussels or the United States. That began to change this year, when the European Commission imposed a $1.96 million sanction, equal to 0.5% of the companys global earnings. Currently, the firm is attracting even more attention for its refusal to comply with DMA requirements.

Amazon is another company with lawsuits pending in the United States and European Union. In contrast, Microsoft has only been subject to investigation in Brussels. Having escaped the attention of the Competition Commission for many years, after having been at the center of one of its most emblematic investigations at the turn of the century, it has returned to the spotlight by committing a potential antitrust violation in linking its Teams application by default to Office 365 and Microsoft 365.

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The fall of Ismael El Mayo Zambada, the capo of Mexicos drug lords, was celebrated in the United States as an unprecedented victory in the so-called war on drugs. The DEA, the FBI and the Justice Department were all chest-thumping after delivering what they called a blow to the heart of the Sinaloa Cartel. On the other side of the border, there has been much less enthusiasm. Almost two weeks after the arrest, Mexico still does not know precisely how El Mayo and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, one of El Chapos sons, ended up on a plane that landed in El Paso, Texas. In addition to the doubts surrounding the case, there are other questions about the message sent by Washington with El Mayos detention, the information the White House had before the arrest, and the suspicion of an extraterritorial operation. The mystery has had an impact on the bilateral relationship, adding a new layer to the distrust that prevails between the security agencies of both countries.

The capture of El Mayo, who had not set foot in a jail in the more than five decades of his criminal career, was a victory scored by U.S. authorities separately and without the help of their Mexican partners. Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador acknowledged that his government was not informed until minutes after the arrest took place on July 25 and the Mexican president has insisted that none of his agencies was involved in the operation.

Mexican authorities have requested a formal report from their U.S. counterparts through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Attorney Generals Office, under the premise that Washington must make everything transparent and clarify its actions on Mexican territory. The official version is that it was an agreed surrender, at least in the case of Guzman Lopez. 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 Lopez Obrador on Tuesday. It seems that it was an agreement.

If it had been Trump, it would be more normal, but with Biden the Mexican government had maintained a policy of cooperation in the security sphere with dialogues at the highest level that suggested trust, exchange of information, and coordinated work against fentanyl. All of that has been unilaterally broken, says Pia Taracena, international analyst at the Universidad Iberoamericana.

For the specialist, El Mayos arrest represents a change of tone and a sign that patience has run out in the fight against drug trafficking, a decisive issue in the campaign for the U.S. presidential election in November. Taracena does not doubt that U.S. security agencies have plenty of room to act on their own, but few believe that the White House was unaware of the operation against El Mayo (or of his surrender). The DEA has its own vendetta against the cartels. Either they entered [Mexico] or they got him out by subterfuge, but they do have their own ways of operating in Mexico.

The electoral scenario in the United States is an issue to take into account, but there are other factors. Elections on the northern side of the Rio Bravo always leave their ripples on the other shore. In addition to Trumps bluster about migrants, walls and deportations, on this occasion a key factor has been added  fentanyl  which causes more than 80,000 deaths a year in the United States, a public health epidemic that all candidates want to tackle. And the capture of El Mayo has hung that medal around the Democrats neck, achieved quickly and cleanly, without the need to fire a single bullet. The consensus among analysts is that the coup, despite its symbolic weight and political capital, will have no effect on drug flows, although it does set a precedent on the limits Washington is willing to cross and on its actions in the most sensitive missions: without mutual trust there is no cooperation in security matters.

Martha Barcena, who was Mexican ambassador to the United States in the current six-year term and is now retired, believes that the diplomatic frictions that have ended with the capture of El Mayo began with the arrest of General Salvador Cienfuegos in the United States in October 2020. The controversy over the case against Enrique Pena Nietos Secretary of Defense escalated with his exoneration and the enactment of a 2021 law that imposed limits on the actions of foreign agents, which brought tension with the DEA to a head. The only thing that this law achieved was to hinder cooperation and further break the trust between the two countries, she says.

The open confrontation with the DEA deepened a few months ago after a wave of leaks concerning alleged links among Lopez Obradors inner circle and organized crime. His government has also clashed with the U.S. State Department, accusing it of having double standards and extending letters of good conduct to countries and to independent and sovereign peoples. Mexicos sovereignty was at the center of both disputes and has become one of the main questions surrounding Zambada, especially after his lawyer, Frank Perez, claimed that at least six men in military uniforms were present during his clients alleged kidnapping.

CBP agents stand by a plane believed to have carried Mexican drug lord Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, who were arrested in El Paso, Texas, July 25, 2024. Jose Luis Gonzalez (Reuters)

Lopez Obradors outbursts had been considered as messages for internal consumption, which did not compromise cooperation in strategic areas. There was even the notion that the Biden administration had been receptive to Mexican demands to be treated as equal partners, a spirit that has materialized, at least in discourse, in initiatives such as the Bicentennial Framework. In Barcenas opinion, however, Mexico has not been prudent enough. It has come too close to the red line, or has already crossed it, she says.

On this occasion, Lopez Obrador has also adjusted his tone and opted for a much more restrained response. Mexican authorities have attempted a balancing act following the arrest, on the understanding that it is not appropriate to air disagreements with the United States given the political-electoral context in both countries, and that the disclosure of some details of the arrest could result in a backlash from the Sinaloa Cartel or other rival groups.

Under this assumption, the lack of clarity in the official version of El Mayos detention  and the delegation of responsibility for the story to Washington  has played in Mexicos favor, especially in the face of sectors of the population that do not look favorably on a violation of sovereignty or a show of force from the other side of the border. One of the readings is that, for the moment, it is more important to keep the peace. The robust trade relationship between the two countries and other open fronts such as migration, an issue that has proven inescapable, also weigh in favor of a more pragmatic position.

Another interpretation of how the Mexican government has conducted itself is influenced by the information that El Mayo  a capo with extensive political influence and a vast network of contacts in Mexicos security forces  may share with U.S. authorities. The precedent of Genaro Garcia Luna, Felipe Calderons drug czar convicted of collaborating with the Sinaloa Cartel, and that of Cienfuegos himself, indicates that U.S. agencies are also targeting the collusion between drug traffickers and Mexican politicians. 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, said Lopez Obrador, who has ruled out any damage to his government by what the drug lord may reveal.

The Mexican president has asked not to indulge in speculation until the United States offers a more complete picture of what happened. Between versions of an agreed surrender or a betrayal, the silence of the Biden administration still leaves the main questions unanswered. Despite the noise caused by El Mayos capture, the climate of the bilateral relationship, especially in the most sensitive areas, will ultimately depend on the outcome of the U.S. presidential election and the new government of Claudia Sheinbaum, which will take office on October 1. The arrest, however, has been a turning point for the next steps to be taken by both countries.

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I dont know are three words that spoken together are very unusual for Oleh Synyehubov, who has served as the governor of Kharkiv since 2021. The politician  who is also a lawyer, researcher and businessman  rarely gives interviews and rarely smiles, say those who know him, but almost always provides a clear and thoughtful answer to everything. Almost always, because the I dont know that escapes his lips with an unexpected half-smile is all he manages to say when asked what his secret is, as he is one of the few governors of a Ukrainian province still in office since the beginning of the war with Russia.

The province Synyehubov governs, partially occupied by Moscow in the first months of the full-scale invasion of February 2022, was liberated in September of the same year, but since May it has been under Russian siege again on several fronts in the north and east, which the Ukrainian army is barely managing to contain. On the humanitarian and military situation in the face of the latest onslaught, he offers full explanations in this interview conducted on August 1 in the press center of his hometown, Kharkiv, the second most-populated city in the country.

Question. What is your main request to the Western allies?

Answer. Kharkiv is sustaining the struggle for democratic values. The first request is, of course, to not stop providing humanitarian support, because Kharkiv right now is the border between democratic civilizations and the enemy, who is trying to attack everybody. Our allies also have to be aware that military aid is extremely necessary and has to be consolidated to make our army as effective as possible on the battlefield, because we are fighting for everybody; we are fighting for the freedom of the whole of Europe.

Q. Have you noticed results after the U.S. and other allied countries authorized you to attack targets in Russian territory with NATO weapons?

A. Yes, we have noticed concrete results both from the military assistance and from that decision: the situation changed because our Armed Forces destroyed everything near the border, such as S-300 and S-400 missile launchers with which they were firing on Kharkiv. For a month now, we have not registered any attacks with these weapons on the [regional] capital, although in the rest of the region they sometimes still use them. This is a concrete result of the decisions that were made to let us fire on their territory. Now, in order to continue defending ourselves, we have to strongly reinforce our air defenses.

Q. What is the situation after the attacks that the city and the province have been the target of since May?

A. The situation in the whole of Kharkiv is changing because we are under attack in the smaller towns, but also in the capital, including with very dangerous guided aerial bombs, such as the FAB-500, which the invading army has also used over the center of Kupiansk. Moreover, they constantly modify them. At first, they had a range of 40 kilometers, but now they can reach up to 80 kilometers or even more, that is to say they can reach city of Kharkiv from any point. On the other hand, the enemy is increasingly directing its FPV [remotely piloted] drones at the civilian population. We have registered more than 500 cases in recent months. This is targeted terrorism because the drone operator can see what target he is hitting; therefore, they are deliberately choosing to attack civilians. As for the front line, we have ongoing hostilities in the direction of Liptsi and Vovchansk in the north of the province and Kupiansk in the east, with fighting every day. The enemy is still trying to penetrate deeper into our territory, but so far has not succeeded.

Q. What has been the response, both humanitarian and military?

A. Since May, when the latest offensive began, we have evacuated about 13,000 people from the Liptsi, Vovchansk, and Kupiansk districts, more than 1,000 of whom were minors. Currently, we are evacuating 38 neighborhoods in five districts and have to forcibly remove about 60 more families, mostly with children, who are in the territories closest to the combat zone, where the threat to the life and health of our population is at its highest. Unfortunately, there are still many people who do not want to be evacuated, but we are conducting operational search activities to identify them and try to move them to a safer place.

Q. Is there any truth in the news circulating that the city of Kharkiv will also be evacuated?

A. It is false, a rumor coming from the invader. We have been fighting against fake news coming from the Russian Federation since 2022, as they constantly outline narratives about the capture of the city of Kharkiv, but there is no reason for the population to leave. However, we take all these threats as absolutely real, because the enemy does not cease in its efforts to seize our territories. And, of course, Kharkiv is a priority target.

Q. Russia has left Ukraine with less than half of its power generation capacity through its attacks on major infrastructure, and the whole country has been suffering from blackouts all summer, including Kharkiv, where the heating system is 52% ready according to your administrations data. How are you preparing for the winter?

A. We have to restore everything we have lost this year. And, of course, we have to think about how to protect the facilities from being attacked. We are decentralizing new equipment, heating systems, electricity supply, etc. We are preparing according to plan, but we cannot make forecasts because at any moment another massive attack can be launched against our energy system.

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Sheikh Hasina has been elected prime minister five times in Bangladesh, the eighth-most populous country in the world with 170 million inhabitants. With the 76-year-old at the helm, the center-left Awami League first came to power in 1996 and, in two separate terms, ruled for 20 years. She became the hope for a democratic Bangladesh after a turbulent period of war and military coups.

After her first term as prime minister, from 1996 to 2001, she spent several years in the opposition and was singled out for her closeness to the Indian government. Since 2009, she has won four consecutive victories, the most recent one in January 2024. Power was given to her by the ballot boxes, the international community praised the countrys enormous progress, she was awarded prizes for her policies in favor of women... But her detractors accuse her of eventually believing that power was hers alone and of developing an authoritarian administration that did not permit criticism or opposition.

The violent containment of student protests in recent weeks, in which more than 300 people have been killed and thousands injured and arrested, hastened the end of Hasinas government on August 5, drawing a line under a period of increasing repression against any voice that dared to oppose her leadership.

The reign of the longest-serving leader in Bangladeshs young democracy came to an end with no more noise than the helicopter she boarded to flee to India, without addressing the citizens who took to the streets to celebrate the moment. It is not the first time that the former prime minister has left the country, nor is it the first time she has ended up in India or in asylum in the United Kingdom, where she is now considering returning, although her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, states that this time she is leaving with no intention to return; or at least not to return to politics.

Hasina is the eldest of five siblings, daughter of the man who is considered the father of the nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who in 1971 declared the independence of Bangladesh, which until then had been a territory of Pakistan. Sheikh Rahman became the first head of the new state and the leader of the Awami League. The charismatic leader was assassinated during a military coup on August 15, 1975, along with his wife and three sons. The only survivors were Hasina and her sister Rehana, who were residing in Germany at the time.

After the murder of her family, Hasina moved to the United Kingdom and was elected president of the Awami League in 1981, when she returned to Bangladesh with the intention of overthrowing the autocratic regime. She succeeded in doing so through an unexpected alliance with her political rival Khaleda Zia, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Together they led a popular uprising for democracy that overthrew the military ruler Hossain Mohammad Ershad in 1990.

Gradually, however, her critics accused her of transforming herself into what she had previously fought against. She clung to power and her then-ally became an enemy. Khaleda Zia was charged with corruption in 2018 and imprisoned until the current uprisings, during which she has been released.

Bangladeshs strong growth and development trajectory during Hasinas tenures, according to a World Bank analysis in April, has been accompanied and overshadowed by continued complaints from human rights organizations, the opposition, and civil society in the country over the authoritarian drift of her governments.

The violent repression of the student demonstrations of the last few weeks is one more chapter  the latest and bloodiest  in a string of outrages. The use of excessive force to contain protests was common and dissenting voices faced extrajudicial executions, forced disappearances, or imprisonment in a country where the death penalty is still in place, according to Amnesty International in its latest assessment of Bangladesh for the period 2018-2023.

Hasina had the data on her side to boast about her stewardship. Bangladesh moved off the list of the least-developed countries in the world to reach the lower-middle income level in 2015. Extreme poverty (living on less than $2.15 a day) fell from 11.8% in 2010 to 5% in 2022. Similarly, notes the World Bank, moderate poverty (less than $3.65 a day) declined from 49.6% to 30.0% over the same period. Gross domestic product grew by an average of 6% per year. Human development outcomes improved in many dimensions, including reductions in child mortality and stunting, and increases in literacy rates and access to electricity, the agency asserts.

In December 2023, Forbes magazine ranked Hasina 46th among the worlds 100 most powerful women. But instead of focusing on extolling her achievements, Hasina became obsessed with silencing critics and eliminating any opposition. And in July 2024, that exercise of force and repression against any hint of dissent got out of hand. Half a century after the loss that marked her political career, her exile and rise, it was precisely the social rejection of the civil service quota system, which reserved 30% of government jobs for relatives of fighters in the war of liberation against Pakistan that her father championed, that triggered her final downfall.

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Amid the turmoil in the neighbouring country, around 104 truck drivers who were stranded at various places beyond the borders of Bangladesh returned to their homeland today. As the unrest in Bangladesh continues, about 183 truck drivers who had crossed the borders ferrying essential, perishable or even non-perishable articles in the last few days, were awaiting a communication from the state and the central governments for their return. According to the truck operators, trucks carrying onions, medicines, garments and other similar items are stranded at three border points of the neighbouring country.

According to a local clearing agent, around 724 trucks carrying items worth Rs 1 thousand crore were stra nded at the other side of the border. This is keeping the truck operators apprehensive as the chaos in Bangladesh continued As informed by sources in the Federation of West Bengal Truck Operators Association and the local clearing agents, the Petrapole border trade remained suspended even today. Loading and unloading was also halted at the borders of the neighbouring country till a greater part of the day. Amid the political instability, around 190 truck drivers stranded at various border crossings were brought to this side of the border yesterday. However, around 104 truck drivers who were still stranded on the other side of the border in Bangladesh returned today.

At this moment, we are not concerned about the trucks or even the articles being ferried in them. Our priority is to bring back the truck drivers safely to our country, informed a clearing agent of Petrapole border. During the later parts of the day, around 104 drivers are said to have returned with empty vehicles. The remaining around 79 in number were still in Bangladesh but at safe places. According to the local clearing agents, 19 trucks after off loading returned to India this afternoon. The process of bringing the trucks and the stranded drivers will continue and the remaining are also expected to be here soon, informed an agent. However, as per the last conversation with the truck operators federation this noon, the Indo-Bangla border was still closed for trade.

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All planned cultural events at the Bangladesh Bhavan on the campus of Visva Bharati University in West Bengals 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.

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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, whos 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.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today mocked Trinamul Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy for suggesting that the West Bengal governments Maoist Control model be implemented nationwide. BJPs West Bengal coobserver and national IT cell in-charge Amit Malviya described Mr Roys suggestion as laughable. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also sharply rebuffed Mr Roys proposal on the floor of the Lok Sabha, criticising the notion.

Mr Malviya highlighted the contradictions in the TMCs stance, pointing out that West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had previously allied with Maoists to gain power, even integrating some into her party. Mr Malviya noted that on 18 May, 2024, Miss Banerjee publicly acknowledged that notorious Maoist Chhatradhar Mahato, accused of multiple murders, had held positions in TMC since 2008. She credited him with establishing TMCs presence in the Junglemahal region. Upon assuming power, Miss Banerjee reportedly labeled a farmer as a Maoist for questioning the rising price of manure, resulting in his immediate arrest.

Similarly, she accused a student of being a Maoist for challenging her on TMC leaders character assassination of rape victims. Ironically, the interviewer at the time is now a TMC MP, Mr Malviya tweeted. Recently, Professor Saugata Roy himself faced threats when TMC goon Jayanta Sinha was arrested for whipping people, with his followers demanding his immediate release. It is not just audacious but laughable for the TMC to tout their efforts as a model to emulate, Mr Malviya concluded.

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Border Security Force (BSF) on Tuesday said that the curfew along the IndiaBangladesh 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.

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Kolkata-Bangladesh flight services are gradually returning to normal, a NSCBI airport sources said today. Late last night, a flight from Bangladesh landed in Kolkata, although it had only a few passengers. The flight returned to Bangladesh at the scheduled time. Today, Tuesday, at 8:22 a.m, a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight arrived in Kolkata. This flight will depart for Bangladesh shortly, but the number of passengers remains low.

Following days of bloody struggle, police-civilian clashes, and the deaths of over a hundred people, normalcy is gradually returning to public life in Bangladesh. After five consecutive days of violence across the capital Dhaka and other parts of the country, the situation is stabilising.

Air India has cancelled all flights to Bangladesh, informing passengers that they will not be charged a cancellation fee for their tickets. Vistara also announced on their official X handle that flights to Bangladesh are temporarily suspended. Similarly, IndiGo Airlines also announced that their flights to Bangladesh will not operate for the time being.

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Several Awami League supporters, both Muslim and Hindu, have fled Bangladesh to save their lives and come to India officially with visas . Many other supporters of the Awami League are unable to cross the Indo-Bangladesh border to seek refuge in India. Sources report that these individuals are allegedly being confined by both the police and army in Bangladesh. Several families have attempted to cross the border to save their lives but have failed. Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the fundamentalist group Jamaat-e-Islami have been attacking these individuals. Rabiul Islam, from Dinajpur Corporation area, fled his home to save his life and crossed the Indo-Bangladesh border at Fulbari in Jalpaiguri today.

Speaking to reporters at Fulbari Immigration Check Post, Rabiul Islam, an Awami League supporter, said: The situation in Bangladesh is alarming. BNP and Jamaate-Islami people, in the name of students, have looted houses and business establishments and set them on fire. Several people were beaten to death. I just fled home to save my life since I have a valid passport and visa. My family members couldnt leave because they dont have visas. They are at my in-laws house. As I was coming to the border, several houses in Tentulia were burning.

A big power is working behind the students who are attacking the general people and looting government and private properties. Bangladesh is finished. There is no democracy and no rule of law at present. Several people have come to India officially through Changrabandha, Fulbari, Hilli, and Mahadipur ICPs to seek refuge. Meanwhile, some people have been returning to Bangladesh. One of them, at Fulbari ICP, said: A new Bangladesh has emerged. The Awami League was in power for many years without a proper election system. As a result, the majority of people went against the present government. As many Bangladeshis desperately try to cross the IndoBangladesh border to save their lives and seek refuge, despite alleged resistance from both Bangladesh police and army, the BSF jawans are on high alert, enhancing vigilance and intelligence along Assam and Bengal.

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In light of recent developments in Bangladesh, the BSF has reviewed the security situation along the IndoBangladesh international border, anticipating various contingencies. A state of high alert has been declared to address any potential security threat. Commanders at all levels have been directed to maintain utmost vigilance and readiness to handle any unforeseen circumstances. The North Bengal Frontier BSF has appealed to the district administrations to impose Section 144 of the CrPC along the border at night to check crimes and infiltration.

They are to keep a strict watch on the border, with augmented manpower and the formation of quick reaction teams (QRT), according to a senior BSF official. Manpower at border outposts (BOPs) has been increased, and all surveillance equipment is being utilized to its full capacity to ensure effective monitoring. 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 neutralized. Given the sensitivity of the border and potential challenges, BSF troops are strategically deployed to safeguard the nations borders, the BSF said.
The Leader of Opposition in Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday hurriedly flew to New Delhi after a summons from the Union home minister Amit Shah. The developments comes amid turmoil in the neighbouring country of Ban  gladesh. Mr Suvendu did not disclose the reason for his trip to Delhi to the Press before leaving. However, according to sources, Mr Adhikari is going to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the context of the situation in Bangladesh. The Indian administration is concerned about the recent developments in Bangladesh over the past few days.

In this connection, Mr Adhikari, speaking to the media outside the state legislative Assembly on Monday, said: One crore refugees will come to West Bengal. Be prepared. I am prepared. I will ask the Chief Minister and the Governor to talk to the Centre. Following Sheikh Hasinas resignation and departure from her country, a high alert has been issued at the IndiaBangladesh border. Strict surveillance is underway at every border in Bengal. Currently, the situation in Bangladesh is fiery.

Police stations, hotels have been burned, rampant attacks, and incidents of beating to death are occurring. According to sources, from morning to night on Monday, at least 109 people have died. In this situation, the minorities in Bangladesh are extremely terrified. Mr Adhikaris sudden flight to Delhi has created a stir in the political sphere as well. Meanwhile along with the Coast Guard, patrolling is being conducted by water in all coastal police station areas of Sundarbans. From the morning, the Fraserganj Coastal Police Station has been seen patrolling the rivers and sea in the coastal area with Flying Inflatable Boat (FIB) vessels.

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The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) North Bengal Chapter has raised alarm regarding the deteriorating socio-political climate in neighbouring Bangladesh, particularly following a sudden escalation in tensions prevailed yesterday. Narayan Mandal, President of VHP North Bengal, called for the protection of non-sectarian Muslim civil society in Bangladesh, highlighting the potential risks they face due to the rising influence of fundamentalist groups such as Jamaat.

Their lives may also be at risk due to the growing Jamaat/fundamentalist influence in Bangladesh. Persecution of minorities has been a recurring issue over the past decades. To prevent further atrocities, international human rights organizations, including the United Nations, must actively monitor the situation, Mr Mandal stated. Mr Mandal also expressed concerns about the presence of extremist forces like Jamaat and ISIS in Bangladesh, some of which have been reported to operate within India. He urged that Indias security status, particularly in border areas, should remain stable amidst these developments. Lakshman Bansal, another VHP leader, emphasised the need for preparedness in case a significant number of minority communities from Bangladesh seek refuge in India.

From a humanitarian perspective, appropriate shelter camps for these refugees should be established in advance. We must also ensure that militants do not infiltrate under the guise of refugees, Mr Bansal asserted. The ongoing turmoil has left many Indian students, businessmen, and tourists stranded in Bangladesh. Bansal stressed the urgent need for protective measures and safe return arrangements for these individuals. In light of recent incidents, VHP leaders appealed to both society and local administration to maintain peace in Bangladesh and its bordering regions, especially West Bengal.

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They reported multiple instances of vandalism targeting temples and Hindu homes amid ongoing student movements. Mr Mandal urged the new Bangladeshi administration to ensure the protection and reconstruction of damaged Hindu temples, while also calling on the Government of India to take an active role in safeguarding minority communities. Mr Bansal echoed this sentiment, demanding protection for all minority groups in Bangladesh, including Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs, and Christians. Sources said over 60,000 villages were attacked since yesterday
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.

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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.

Todays 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 Modis 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 Indias 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.
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal on Wednesday said the BIMSTEC members should re-examine the priorities of member nations with regards to trade negotiations so that the delayed Free Trade Agreement can be finalized.

Speaking on the situation in Bangladesh, the Piyush Goyal expressed deep concern over the developments and wished for a bright future and a smooth transition of governance for the nation.

The minister was delivering his speech at the inaugural edition of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Business Summit organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in partnership with Ministry of External Affairs.

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There is a need to reassess the reasons behind the delay in the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement.

He said that the members need to come up with a set of cogent recommendations that are acceptable to all seven countries.

The minister further called for the Trade Negotiating Committee and the business community to consider a preferential trade agreement to begin with to foster intra-regional trade and investment and enhance regional competitiveness.

He called upon the BIMSTEC members to introspect on the current trading relations noting that trade among the BIMSTEC countries is small. Theres a long way to go before we can achieve its full potential, he said.

The minister called for deeper integration amongst the member nations to provide honest feedback and help strengthen trade facilitation and cross-border movement of goods. He further said that there should be a focus on reducing trade deficit, strengthening of trade facilitation measures to strengthen partnership in e-commerce, digital public infrastructure and better integration of custom borders with the aid of technology.

Piyush Goyal noted that there is a need for computerisation of border controls, faster clearances of the import-export online application processes which will help in Ease of Doing Business.

There should be a focus on strengthening supply chains, removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers, strengthening of trade facilitation measures by adopting international norms and seamless transport connectivity, essential to unleashing the full potential of trade and investment cooperation among the BIMSTEC Member States.

On Blue Economy, he said the member states have a thriving blue economy or demand of ocean products enhancing livelihoods and job creation while preserving marine and coastal ecosystems.

He further said that regional value chains can add to agricultural and mineral produce to become a developed region.
Vijay Verma and Alia Bhatts dark comedy Netflix film Darlings completes two years after amassing loads of admiration from fans. To celebrate the milestone, the Jaane Jaan actor resorted to a dark-comedy-toned post which took fans into a frenzy as a misunderstanding occurred among fans. Clarifying his intention, Verma apologised to his fans for worrying them.

Taking to Instagram, Vijay celebrated the second anniversary of the hit film Darlings with a post featuring his picture and a humorous note. The post included a mock obituary reading, Sads demise. Hamza Abdul Shaikh. Loving husband | Beloved Son-in-law. Monday 5:30 pm. All are welcomes. While the post flaunted good humour, Verma took it a notch higher with the accompanying caption reading, Its been two years since your beloved Hamza left for jannat ki sair. Miss you, Hamza darlings not.

Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vijay Varma (@itsvijayvarma)

While some fans found it humorous, others believed the actor to have passed away for a brief minute. In the comment section, the majority of the users commented on the lines of Scared me for a sec, while another fan wrote, Sh*t scared us for a sec. One fan also went on to write, Had to read that post twice to make sure of what I was reading. Another fan commented, Dont post like this. we didnt like it please remove it from your profile.

Following the comments, the Murder Mubarak actor apologised to his fans writing, Sorry guys didnt mean to scare u. This is an actual screengrab from the film! Dark comedy banay thi toh post bhi.

The hit film features Vijay Verma as an antagonist who is a vile and abusive husband to Alia Bhatts character. Darlings was widely appreciated for the storyline and the phenomenal acting delivered by the cast. During the films release, Vijay revealed to India Today that Alia Bhatts team reached out to him first for the role of Hamza in the film. Speaking of his role he stated, Roles like these can go south. I was excited and, therefore, the challenge was how to make this special, truthful and honest. Its a very heartwarming feeling, I had four-five scenes in Gully Boy and now Ive got to share the screen with Alia and she made this happen. I got a call from Grishma from Alias team for the role first, so I think I must be doing something right.

The film also marked Alia Bhatts debut as a producer.
Vinesh Phogat has captured the nations heart by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to reach an Olympic final. Her historic achievement at the Paris Olympics has sparked a wave of admiration and congratulatory messages from the Indian film industry.

Phogats remarkable journey to the final has not gone unnoticed. Renowned actor RajKummar Rao took to Instagram to express his joy, sharing a photo of Phogat with a heartfelt message: Were in the finals! It was such a joy to watch you live. You are the pride of our nation, @vineshphogat. Good luck in the finals. Our prayers are with you.

Wrestler Vinesh Phogat won her semifinal bout in the Womens 50 kg freestyle category with a 5-0 victory over Cubas Yusneylys Guzman, securing a place in the finals and guaranteeing at least a #silvermedal for India.#Olympics #OlympicGames #Olympic2024 #ParisOlympics2024 pic.twitter.com/tMoP0E2eal Advertisement  The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) August 6, 2024

Similarly, Ayushmann Khurana posted on Instagram Stories, celebrating Phogats emotional victory over the worlds top-ranked champion. His story read, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat couldnt stop crying after her win against the unbeatable world No.1 champion. He punctuated his message with a National Flag emoji.

Riteish Deshmukh also praised Phogats performance, writing on X, Thats what a champion looks like after beating the World No.1 and defending Olympic Gold Medal holder. #VineshPhogat.

Taapsee Pannu shared a video of Phogats winning moment, marveling at her accomplishment. Pannu wrote, This woman will be remembered as a benchmark for decades! What a performance! @vineshphogat, youve earned a fan for life.

Randeep Hooda joined in the celebrations with a post on X, featuring a photo of Phogat post-victory and a fingers crossed emoji, while Kunal Kemmu expressed his pride with, What a champ. Ufff. Sooooooo Proud!!! His wife, who also watched the match, added, First Indian woman to reach an Olympic wrestling final, Vinesh Phogat!!!!! Soooo proud!!!!

Phogats path to the finals was nothing short of extraordinary. In the quarter-finals, she faced Tokyo 2020 champion Yui Susaki from Japan. Despite trailing 1-0 after the first period, Phogat made a stunning comeback in the second period, defeating Susaki 3-2 and ending her opponents 82-match unbeaten streak.

In the semi-finals, Phogat went up against Ukraines Oksana Livach. She took an early 2-0 lead and managed to hold off Livachs efforts in the second period, securing her spot in the final.

As she prepares to face USAs Ann Sarah Hildebrandt in the final on August 7, the entire nation, along with the Indian film fraternity, eagerly awaits to cheer her on.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has called for a thorough and effective solution to tackle the severe flooding that hit Guwahati on August 5.

The flooding, triggered by intense rainfall in Assam and neighbouring Meghalaya, caused extensive disruption throughout Guwahati.

In a post on X, CM Sarma stated: Yesterday, Ri-Bhoi district in Meghalaya received record rainfall of nearly 100 mm. Heavy rainfall in the hills along with rains of 60 mm in Guwahati  this 90 minutes of rain was nearly 25 per cent of rainfall the city receives during the entire monsoon season. This resulted in extraordinary flash floods in parts of the State Capital. Today, I chaired a meeting with all stakeholders to work out a comprehensive solution baked in with an early warning and quick response mechanisms.

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The Chief Minister chaired a meeting with stakeholders to formulate strategies for handling future flood events.

We will also be in touch with the Meghalaya Government to implement a real-time coordination protocol, Sarma wrote on X, emphasising the need for inter-state cooperation.

The Chief Minister also directed the officials present at the meeting to provide updates on the measures being implemented to address the flooding caused by the heavy rainfall, according to official sources.

The flooding severely impacted several key areas of Guwahati, including Zoo Road, GS Road, Nabin Nagar, Ganeshguri, and Dispur.

The inundation caused substantial disruptions as roads in these regions became impassable, trapping commuters, schoolchildren, and ambulances for extended periods. The situation was exacerbated by power outages that affected multiple neighbourhoods, further complicating the challenges faced by residents.

This combination of blocked roads and electrical failures created a crisis situation, leaving many people stranded and in urgent need of assistance.

Sarma lauded the steadfast dedication of uniformed personnel who worked tirelessly to support city residents throughout the crisis.
The Union Health Ministry dismissed media reports on Wednesday alleging possible paper leak in NEET- PG 2024 examination as false and misleading.

In a statement, the Ministry said, It has come to the notice of the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) that some unscrupulous agents are making false and bogus claims on the social media platform viz. Telegram Messenger. The cozeners are claiming to provide NEET-PG 2024 questions for the upcoming NEET-PG 2024 Examination in exchange for a considerable amount of money.

It is clarified that NBEMS has already registered a police complaint against such fraudsters and their accomplices for their attempt to befool NEET-PG aspirants in the name of providing questions of NEET-PG 2024 for a considerable sum of money, it said.

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The Ministry said, By the present notice, the NBEMS denies such false claims made by Telegram channel titled NEET-PG LEAKED MATERIAL and cautions applicants for NEET-PG 2024 to not get lured/misled by such unscrupulous elements who are trying to befool them by claiming to have access to questions of upcoming NEET-PG 2024.

All candidates are assured that the question papers for NEET-PG 2024 are yet to be prepared by NBEMS and claims of paper leak made in social media platforms are bogus, it said.

The Ministry advised that direct or indirect indulgence of anyone in any of such activities or publishing/spreading rumors without verifying the facts shall be appropriately dealt with by NBEMS.

In case candidates are approached by any such unscrupulous agents/touts promising any such undue favour/ promising to provide question papers for NBEMS examinations through any spoofed emails/SMS or telephone call or forged documents or personally or through social media, the same may be reported to NBEMS through its Communication Web Portal: https://exam.natboard.edu.in/communication.php or to the local police for further investigation, it said.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on the midnight of August 6 rescued a 21-year-old Indian fisherman, with second-degree burns on the left side of the body, the Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday.

The incident occurred onboard the Indian Fishing Boat (IFB) Sengalamman about 183 km off the Kakinada Coast (Andhra Pradesh).

Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Chennai upon receiving the distress call from the Assistant Director of Fisheries, Chennai on August 6, diverted ICG Ship Samudra Paheredar to provide timely assistance.

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Simultaneously, ICG Station Kakinada was notified to arrange necessary medical aid for the patient upon arrival. The ship evacuated the fisherman from the boat and the medical officer onboard the ICG ship administered the initial treatment to stabilise the patient.

After the treatment, the fisherman was transferred to the ICG Ship C-430 for the onward journey to Kakinada. The patient was transported to the Government Hospital Kakinada for further medical care.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, said that a troubling global scenario was being witnessed today, where Indias neighborhood is in turmoil, temples are being destroyed, and Hindus are being selectively targeted.

Unveiling the statue of Brahmalin Paramhans Ramchandra Das, former President of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas, on his 21st death anniversary at Digambar Akhara, he added: Despite these alarming developments, we are not seeking to understand the historical reasons behind such tragic events.

A society that fails to learn from historical mistakes risks casting a shadow over its bright future. We must unite and address the threats facing Sanatan Dharma. The construction of the Ram Temple is not an end, but a step in an ongoing journey. The strength of Sanatan Dharma must continue to drive these efforts forward.

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The CM also participated in worship, planted saplings, and had prasad with the saints.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised Pujya Brahmalin Paramhans Ramchandra Das, the revered devotee of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram, for dedicating his entire life to the historically significant Ram Janmabhoomi movement.

The CM said, He turned this cause into his lifes mission, and when the saints united in their resolve, it paved the way for the construction of the temple in Ayodhya.

The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to unveil the statue of Ramchandra Das even after 21 years.

CM Yogi noted that since the 1940s, Gorakshapeeth Gorakhpur and Digambar Akhara Ayodhya have worked in harmony. From a young age, Ramchandra Das Maharaj had a deep connection with Gorakshapeeth.

The Ram Janmabhoomi movement progressed under the guidance of the then Gorakshapeethadhiswar, Mahant Digvijaynath.

Following the manifestation of Ram Lalla in 1949, Gorakshapeeth and revered saint Paramhans Ramchandra Das Ji Maharaj jointly fought against the then governments attempts to remove the statue, taking their battle to the streets and the courts. This tireless effort culminated in a 500-year wait, with Ram Lalla being enthroned in Ayodhya, he stated.

Today, thanks to the revered saints, Ayodhya again reflects the glory of Treta Yug, and the city has gained a renewed identity on the national and global stage, he pointed out.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recalled fears during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement that a decision favoring the Ram Temple would lead to widespread violence. Despite the saints best efforts to resolve the issue through dialogue, the governments stubbornness eventually forced them to choose a democratic path of struggle, he remarked.

This approach galvanized the movement within the country, and it gained momentum after the formation of the BJPs double-engine government, he stated further.

CM Yogi highlighted that on August 5, 2020, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone and performed Bhoomi Pujan for the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, following the Supreme Courts order.

On January 22, 2024, Ram Lalla was re-enthroned in Ayodhya, a moment of immense significance for Sanatan Dharma followers and the nation as a whole.

CM Yogi remarked that Ram Lallas consecration ceremony on January 22, 2024, brought peace to the souls of the revered saints and validated the present generations efforts. PM Modi received their blessings for this achievement.

The Chief Minister shared a personal reflection, stating that Paramhans Ramchandra Das was like a revered guru to him. During travels between Gorakhpur, Ayodhya, Lucknow, and Prayagraj, Guru Ji would often inquire about visits to Digambar Akhara and Paramhans Jis health. Guru Ji would reprimand me if I forgot. He used to call Paramhans Ji his spiritual brother, Yogi remarked.

CM Yogi fondly recalled that whenever he traveled this route, he would first visit revered Paramhans Ramchandra Das to answer his gurus inquiries. Paramhans was known for his divine presence, charisma, and leadership. He dedicated his life to the ideals, values, and traditions of Sanatan Dharma and firmly believed in constructing the Ram Temple in Ayodhya as his final mission.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the significant efforts made in Ayodhya, which have elevated the pride of its saints and enhanced the citys recognition. He emphasized the need to uphold this respect and ensure that these efforts continue to be fruitful, securing long-term respect for Ayodhya.

The double-engine government is playing a crucial role in this process. On the one hand, the construction of the Ram Temple in the Ram Janmabhoomi complex is progressing, with the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust turning public sentiment into reality through public support.

On the other hand, Ayodhya is being transformed externally, with notable improvements such as establishment of an international airport, enhanced connectivity, and upgraded railway facilities. The city also sees beautification efforts around Ram Ki Paudi and various temples.

The CM stated that the goal is to create a society free from casteism and untouchability, a vision that Lord Shri Ram dedicated his life to. New traveller rest houses in Ayodhya are named after Nishad Raj, and an international airport is named after Maharishi Valmiki, Shri Rams birthplace. The kitchen set up for passengers at the Bhandaara is named after Mata Shabari.

Emphasizing Lord Rams unifying principles, the CM urged people to draw inspiration from his values and ideals to guide their actions.
Representatives of the Nishad community met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday morning in Ayodhya and expressed their satisfaction with the actions taken by his government in response to the gangrape case in Bhadarsa town.

During the 15-minute meeting, the Chief Minister assured the community that the perpetrators of the heinous crime against the girl would receive the strictest possible punishment, with no leniency. The Nishad community representatives expressed their support for the measures being taken against the accused SP leader.

In the Bhadarsa town gangrape case involving a minor, SP leader Moid Khan, a close aide of Faizabad MP Avdhesh Prasad, and his servant Raju have been arrested by the police.

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It is worth noting that during the recent Monsoon session of the assembly, Yogi Adityanath condemned the incident and promised that the perpetrators would face justice. He also criticized the Samajwadi Party for being lenient towards the accused. The Chief Minister met with the victims mother, assuring her of stringent action against those responsible.

Following the CMs instructions, a member of the State Child Protection Commission visited the victim and her family to offer support. Additionally, an immediate financial aid of Rs 5 lakh was provided by the Chief Minister to assist the victims family. The Bharatiya Janata Partys representative board also met with the victims family, assuring them of firm action against the culprits by the Yogi government.

In light of the seriousness of the incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed the suspension of Purakalandar police station in-charge Ratan Sharma and Bhadarsha outpost in-charge Akhilesh Gupta.

An investigation into the properties of the main accused, SP leader Moid Khan, was also initiated. The Revenue Department has since identified about half a dozen illegal properties belonging to Khan.

Additionally, the Yogi government has taken action against illegal construction at Khans bakery, with a bulldozer demolishing these unauthorized structures.

It is anticipated that further demolition of Khans other properties may follow. Moreover, a case has been filed against three individuals, including the chairman of Bhadarsha Nagar Panchayat, for threatening the victim and her family.

Representatives of the Nishad community who came to thank the Chief Minister for the assistance provided to the rape victim and her family included Mahant Ramsevak Das Nishad, Anju Nishad, Durga Prasad Nishad, Sandeep Nishad, Manjeet Nishad, Asharam Nishad, and Vishnu Nishad.

Meanwhile, following the meeting with the Nishad community delegation in Ayodhya, the Chief Minister emphasized that the safety of the victim and her family is the governments top priority.

On the social media platform X, he stated, Today, a social delegation met with us in Shri Ayodhya Dham regarding the minor victim from the Bhadarsa area. Rest assured, we are committed to ensuring justice for the victim in every circumstance.

The safety of the victim and her family remains our highest priority. Our government stands with the victims family with utmost dedication and sensitivity. The strictest action will be taken against the culprits of this incident, which has brought shame to humanity.
Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid has stoked a controversy over his reported statement that a situation like Bangladesh can happen in the country as well, drawing sharp criticism from the ruling BJP.

Speaking at an event here last evening, the senior Congress leader said: There is a worrisome thing about whats happening (violent protests) in Bangladesh. Whats happening in Bangladesh can happen here (India).

Earlier in the day, on being asked by reporters about his remarks, Khurshid said, I say whatever I say in public, never in private.

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Reacting to Khurshids statement, BJP MP Anurag Thakur while attacking the Congress said, After facing loss for three times in a row (Lok Sabha elections), the Congress mental state is that it wants to push the country into a state of anarchy. They can do anything to push the country back.

Such statement shows the mentality of the Congress. I want to ask the Congress, do they agree with Salman Khurshids statement, he said.

Echoing similar sentiments, BJP MP Sambit Patra said, Situation like Bangladesh can happen in India also, this statement of Salman Khurshid shows the real thinking of Rahul Gandhi and Congress party towards India.

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala in a post on X wrote, In their hatred for Modi they hate Bharat. Salman Khurshid / Congress draws parallel and incites / prays for violence of Bangladesh to take place in Bharat?

Does he want Hindus to be attacked in Bharat? Who is he signalling to? .

Is this not undermining of Bharats democratic institutions? Not the first time they put rajniti above rashtra niti.. Will Congress act on him?, he questioned.
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 years 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.

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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.
The industrial climate in Odisha is very encouraging and the United States of America is keen to partner with the state for commercial engagement, US Consul General at Hyderabad Jennifer Larson said here on Wednesday.

Larson, who called on Chief Minister Mohan Majhi at the State Secretariat to discuss ways to strengthen partnership between the US and Odisha, later appreciated the vibrant culture of Odisha.

The US is interested in supporting Odisha in all possible sectors as per the priorities of the state, she added.

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Welcoming the Consul General, Chief Minister Majhi emphasised strengthening of the partnership between US and Odisha in various sectors such as industries, education, renewable energy, tourism & culture.

Citing Odishas advantageous multidimensional ecosystem such as trained man-power, availability of land, water and energy, he sought for cooperation of US Consul in facilitating larger participation of US industries in the upcoming Utkarsh Utkal Conclave (formerly Make-in-Odisha) which will be held from 6-7 months from now.

Majhi further said that the BJP government in the state is keen for collaboration with US Universities in frontier areas like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.

Seeking cooperation in higher education with partnership between the US and Odisha, he hoped the US would come forward with investment for setting up the semiconductor industry in Odisha.

Further, the CM extended an invitation to American companies to explore the vast potential of Odisha and explore its vibrant culture, rich heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. He expressed his desire to promote cultural exchanges, educational collaborations and people to people connections.
The political upheavals in Bangladesh have significant implications for India, both diplomatically and strategically. The sudden change in government has introduced uncertainties that could affect the long-standing friendly relations between the two nations. With Sheikh Hasina, a steadfast ally of India, ousted from power, New Delhi faces a complex challenge in navigating the evolving political landscape of its neighbour. Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Bangladeshs founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, has been a dominant figure in Bangladeshi politics. Her tenure as Prime Minister, spanning multiple terms since 1996, has been marked by strong bilateral relations with India.

Despite the rise of Hindutva forces in India, the friendship between the two nations remained robust, driven by mutual interests in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and security. Under Hasinas leadership, Bangladesh saw significant economic growth and development. Her policies focused on improving infrastructure, healthcare and energy sectors, which created numerous opportunities for cooperation with India. The two countries collaborated closely on counterterrorism efforts, sharing intelligence and conducting joint operations to combat extremist groups operating in the region. The sudden ouster of Sheikh Hasina has sent shockwaves through diplomatic corridors of New Delhi. The new government in Dhaka, expected to be heavily influenced by religious fundamentalists, poses a direct challenge to Indias strategic interests. With reports indicating that Islamist factions will play a significant role in the new administration, there are growing concerns about the potential rollback of the progress made in recent years. Indias Ministry of External Affairs has so far maintained a cautious stance, labelling the developments in Bangladesh as an internal matter.

However, the potential rise of religious extremism in Bangladesh could have far-reaching consequences for India. The stability of the region is at stake, with implications for counter-terrorism efforts, border secur ity, and economic cooperation. Critics argue that India missed an opportunity to intervene diplomatically during Sheikh Hasinas political crisis. Despite the historical ties and strategic importance of Bangladesh, the NDA government chose a hands-off approach. This decision stands in stark contrast to the actions of other global powers like the United States, which openly cr iticized the electoral process in Bangladesh and supported opposition movements. The United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, Peter Hans, publicly questioned the transparency of the recent elections, adding international pressure on the Hasina administration.

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In contrast, Indias silence has been perceived as a sign of diplomatic passivity, a significant departure from its proactive stance during past crises in Bangladesh. Indias role in the formation of Bangladesh is a testament to the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. During the 1971 Liberation War, India provided crucial military and humanitarian support that led to the creation of Bangladesh. This intervention cemented a bond that has persisted through various political regimes in both countries. Sheikh Hasinas relationship with India was further strengthened after the tragic assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in 1975. India offered asylum to Hasina and her family, who were in Germany at the time of the coup.

She lived in Delhis Pandara Road until 1981, during which time she continued her political activities and maintained her ties with Indian leaders. This historical connection underscored the mutual trust and cooperation that characterized India-Bangladesh relations during Hasinas tenure. The current political uncertainty in Bangladesh threatens to disrupt the economic cooperation that has flourished in recent years. Projects in energy, infrastructure, and healthcare, which were initiated under Hasinas government, may face delays or cancellations. Indian companies that invested in these sectors are now in a state of limbo, awaiting clarity on the new governments policies. Security is another major concern. The influence of religious fundamentalists in the new government could hinder the on-going counterterrorism efforts. Bangladesh has been a key partner in tackling extremist groups that pose a threat to regional stability.

A shift in the political landscape could embolden these groups, leading to an increase in cross-border terrorism and a deterioration of the security situation along the IndiaBangladesh border. Sheikh Hasinas legacy is marked by her resilience and commitment to development and secularism. Despite facing multiple assassination attempts, political imprisonment, and criticism for her authoritarian tendencies, she remained a strong leader. Her governments initiatives in providing asylum to Rohingya refugees, improving healthcare, and focusing on womens empowerment earned her international recognition. However, her tenure was not without controversy. Accusations of electoral fraud, suppression of political opponents, and authoritarian practices drew criticism from various quarters.

The opposition leader, Khaleda Zia of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was placed under house arrest, and there are over 400,000 cases filed against opposition party members. These actions have tainted Hasinas democratic credentials, providing ammunition for her critics. As Bangladesh transitions to a new government, India must carefully navigate its diplomatic relationship with its neighbour. Engaging with the new administration will require a delicate balance of asserting Indias strategic interests while respecting Bangladeshs sovereignty. Indias diplomatic strategy will need to be multifaceted, involving dialogue, economic incentives, and regional cooperation. Rebuilding trust and ensuring continuity in bilateral projects should be a priority. Strengthening people-to-people ties, promoting cultural exchanges, and enhancing trade relations can provide a stable foundation for future cooperation.

Additionally, India must be vigilant in addressing security concerns, ensuring that counter-terrorism efforts remain effective despite the political changes in Dhaka. The political upheaval in Bangladesh presents a significant diplomatic challenge for India. The ouster of Sheikh Hasina, a trusted ally, and the rise of religious fundamentalists in the new government could disrupt the progress made in bilateral relations. Indias cautious approach and historical ties with Bangladesh will be tested as it navigates this complex situation. The future of India-Bangladesh relations will depend on New Delhis ability to adapt its diplomatic strategy to the evolving political landscape, ensuring that mutual interests are safeguarded and regional stability is maintained.

(The writer is Associate Professor, Centre for South Asian Studies, School of International Studies & Social Sciences, Pondicherry Central University, India.)
The quota reform movement started on the first day of July 2024. At first, it was termed a quota reform movement, but gradually it became an anti-quota as well as an anti-government movement fuelled by some opportunistic political powers. Thus, it started as a non-violent movement but became one of the most violent movements in the history of Bangladesh. Unprecedented turmoil was seen when fundamentalist parties like BNP and Jamaat decided to stage demonstrations aligning with the quota movement.

Although most of the quota was scaled back by a government ruling, the protestors continued to instigate violence under the cloak of the student movement. It seems more horror is waiting for the country; as fundamentalist groups are orchestrating the current mayhem. The quota reform protests, which have been ongoing for several years, represent a broader discontent within Bangladeshs youth regarding employment opportunities and fairness in public sector recruitment. The students demands were straightforward: Abolish this quota and give jobs on merit. They argued that the system failed to reflect the needs and aspirations of contemporary Bangladesh. Moreover, this movement can be regarded as successful in light of the Supreme Courts decision to reform the quota system in government, semi-government, and autonomous bodies.

The Supreme Court ordered a reduction in the freedom fighters quota from 30 to 5 five per cent, with 93 per cent of jobs to be awarded on merit. The decision was welcomed, even though it took longer than anticipated, given the current political and social unrest. While students in general cautiously welcomed this decision, it was not enough to quell the unrest. Several vested groups snatched the movement from students and started demanding more and more. Students Against Discrimination, the leading group behind the protests, asked people to stop paying taxes and utility bills to pile pressure on the government under the influence of opposition parties.

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They also asked government workers and labourers in the countrys economically vital garment factories to strike. Thus, the student protest started with a demand to abolish quotas in civil service jobs last month and then turned into a broader anti-government movement. The anti-government movement resulted in widespread violence and instability across Bangladesh, killing hundreds of people and injuring thousands more. Furthermore, the attempts to destroy the countrys mass infrastructures and other violent episodes that occurred during the protests highlighted the depth of the danger. Over the past few days, numerous significant locations in the capital were subjected to vandalism and arson. The terrorists attacked the structures which showcased the governments successes. These perpetrators activities prompted the government to deploy the armed forces to support the civil administration in restoring law and order nationwide and to impose a nationwide curfew.

The Armys deployment was calculated to strengthen the civil administrations ability to handle a complex and unstable situation. The troops were taken only to protect public safety and prevent violence from worsening. Peace had returned until the BNP-Jamaat started orchestrating a violence. It is worth mentioning that Jamaat-Shibir terrorists initially maintained a low profile, infiltrating the quota reform movement. Later, they came to the forefront. Their motive was never quota reform but to topple the government. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh instigated violence under the cloak of the student movement. On 4 August, these terrorists targeted and attacked Bangladesh Awami League offices, law enforcement agents, journalists, and civilians. To secure the unconstitutional fall of a government, the militants attacked, burnt, vandalized, and looted houses of Al leaders, offices of police and the administration, and some hospitals across the country.

Not only that, these perpetrators attacked and looted various minority properties and killed a prominent Hindu leader and local councilor, Haradhan Ray, in Rangpur. They also attacked several journalists and killed a local journalist, Prodip Kumar Bhaumik, in Sirajganj. Their brutality reached its peak when at least 13 policemen were killed in Sirajganjs Enayetpur police station. At around 11 am, some 3,000-4,000 protestors and BNP-Jamaat activists started vandalizing areas surrounding the police station. Later, they entered the police station and attacked the police officers. Police officers were severely beaten and seriously injured with locally made weapons and batons. Many died without treatment at the police station premises.

This shows the ultimate picture of human rights violations by fundamentalist groups, which shocked the whole country. These are not exhaustive lists; more information is still coming in about killings and destructions. This is not politics. The criminals are not students. They are terrorists, and they must be stopped. The international community must take note of these terrorist and violent acts. Unfortunately, global media portrayed a very one-sided picture of the events. Bangladesh will be in the hands of the fundamentalists again.

(The writer is a Dhaka-based human rights activist and writer.)
The capture of a major military base in Lashio by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) marks a turning point in Myanmars struggle against military rule. This significant defeat for the junta not only underscores the rising power and coordination of rebel forces but also signals potential shifts in the regions geopolitical landscape. For over three years, Myanmar has been engulfed in conflict following the military coup that ousted the civilian government.

The coup, which ignited widespread protests, has evolved into fullblown armed resistance. The juntas violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrations galvanised thousands of young protesters, who have since joined forces with established ethnic rebel groups to wage a relentless campaign against military oppression. The fall of Lashio represents a potent symbol of this unified resistance, illustrating the weakening grip of the junta on the country. The capture of Lashio is unprecedented, marking the first time one of Myanmars 14 regional military commands has fallen to rebel forces. This defeat is not merely a tactical loss but a strategic blow to the junta, exposing its vulnerabilities and eroding its authority.

The loss of senior officers, whose fate re mains uncertain, further compounds the juntas predicament, potentially crippling its command structure in the region. The MNDAAs victory in Lashio demonstrates the in creasing effectiveness and resolve of the resistance movement. This success has been lauded by other ethnic armies, such as the Kachin, Karen, and Chin groups, who have pledged to continue their fight until the military regime is toppled. Such solidarity among diverse ethnic groups highlights a growing consensus against the junta, suggesting a more formidable and unified front moving forward. The implications of this development extend beyond Myanmars borders. China, which has significant interests in Myanmar, has called for dialogue and an end to hostilities.

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The collapse of the previously brokered cea sefire by Beijing and the resurgence of fighting in northern Shan state underscore the fragile nature of peace efforts in the region. As Myanmars military faces increasing pressure, India and other neighbouring countries must navigate the complexities of supporting stability while addressing the aspirations of Myanmars ethnic groups. The rapid fall of the North-eastern Command has exposed the juntas weaknesses to both the resistance and the international community. It raises critical questions about the sustainability of military rule in Myanmar and the potential for a broader shift towards democratic governance.

For junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, the loss of Lashio could represent an existential threat, potentially heralding the beginning of the end for his regime. As the conflict continues to unfold, the international community must remain vigilant and supportive of efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution. The fall of Lashio may well be a watershed moment, paving the way for a new chapter in Myanmars history, where the aspirations of its people for peace, justice, and democracy are finally realised.
Science fiction like Star Wars has shown us humanoid robots like C-3PO and R2-D2, where several AIs are linked together and put in the body of a robot, to match or even exceed human intelligence.

Tony Prescott, professor of Cognitive Robotics, has been studying neuroscience and artificial intelligence. His new book, The Psychology of Artificial Intelligence, published by Routledge, argues that combining multiple AIs to form a larger intelligence system, similar to the structure of the human brain, and embodying it in a robot is likely how AI could ultimately outsmart humans.

This book narrates how AIs have an architecture that is similar to the human brain. Several AIs, all specialising in different abilities are all linked as part of one larger intelligence system, therefore embodying artificial intelligence in robots to gain an understanding of the world, learn as humans do and become self-aware of their present environment to act accordingly.

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Scientists have argued for decades over whether AI will ever match or exceed human intelligence, but now that AI is advancing at an unprecedented rate, this question has become ever more important, said Professor Prescott.

Yet AIs are mainly trained to be good at one thing at a time, for example, the generative AIs produce text, images or video.

Large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, dont understand the meaning, consequently producing text based on maths and processing. They understand the relationship between words, but they dont understand how words relate to the world.

The Sheffield professor says that for LLMs to get this understanding they could be connected to other AIs, such as vision AIs that produce art.

For AIs to match or exceed human intelligence, they also need to understand the world around them and acquire self-awareness. Professor Prescott believes the best way to achieve this is through multiple connected AIs, all specialising in different tasks, being embodied in a robot, as this will enable them to interact with their surroundings, learn and experience the world as humans do.

There have been some major breakthroughs recently, particularly in deep learning and generative AIs such as ChatGPT, but this isnt real intelligence like we have as humans. Aspects of human intelligence, such as scientific discovery, aspects of creativity and imagination will remain beyond AI until we build it with a cognitive architecture that is similar to the human brain. For AI to match or exceed human intelligence it also needs a body to help it gain a genuine understanding of the world around it, something which it can only get through robotics. added the professor.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in a joint Op-ed have described the Biden administrations 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 Bidens 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 Americas 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.

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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. Americas 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 Americas turn inward to advance its alternative vision of the world  a vision hostile to US interests.

Significantly, the two officials confined their concerns about Chinas aggression to its behaviour at the sea. Were pushing back together against Chinas dangerous brinkmanship in the regions waterways, they wrote, referring to Chinas island and maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

At another point in the Op-ed, they wrote about Chinas dangerous and provocative actions at sea. The reference was to the South China Sea. There was no reference to Chinas aggression in its land disputes, such as the one with India.
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.

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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 Israels attack on Dahieh in Beiruts 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.
The Sri Lankan Cabinet on Tuesday gave its approval to the setting up of a Regional Centre for Maritime Studies in collaboration with France.

Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as a Minister of Defence to enter into a bilateral agreement between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of France in respect of establishment of proposed Regional Centre for Maritime Studies, Cabinet spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena told media in Colombo.

According to Gunawardena, the decision was made after France identified the island nation as the most suitable location for the establishment of the Regional Centre.

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The proposed centre will be established at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University after getting the necessary assistance and infrastructure facility from the Trincomalee Naval and Maritime Academy.

Earlier this year, France announced its plans to establish a dedicated school focused on maritime safety and security.

During his visit to Sri Lanka, French Ambassador for Indo-Pacific Marc Abensour had said that discussions were underway about the modalities of setting up the training school.

During his visit, the Ambassador met defence and maritime security authorities, emphasising on Frances interest in regional security with the French EEZ in the Indian Ocean also being one of the largest.

We also contribute to the regional stability and have a military presence in the Indian Ocean. We have military bases in Djibouti and also in the Emirates. We have about 4,000 military personnel deployed across the Indian Ocean. They contribute to the protection of our sovereignty and also help to protect the sea lanes of communication. Also, they protect the underwater cables, said the French Ambassador.


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KYODO NEWS - Aug 7, 2024 - 19:14 | All, Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday instructed his ruling party to accelerate discussions on the contentious issue of stipulating the Self-Defense Forces in the war-renouncing Article 9 of Japan's postwar Constitution.

At a meeting on constitutional reform, Kishida said the Liberal Democratic Party should organize the points of the issue, aiming for completion by the end of August.

Kishida's instruction indicated his willingness to garner support from conservative members within the party who have called for progress in discussions on constitutional amendments ahead of the LDP leadership race scheduled for next month, political pundits said.

With the LDP marking the 70th anniversary of its founding in 2025, Kishida said during the gathering, "As the party president, I am asking you to advance discussions on constitutional reform, which is the party's policy, as we approach this significant milestone."

Japan's Constitution, drafted by U.S.-led occupation forces after World War II, has remained unchanged since it took effect in 1947, with no formal amendment process ever initiated, partly due to the high hurdle for proposals in parliament.

Kishida, known as a dovish moderate, said the role of the SDF is "most important for the state" as they "protect the lives of the people at all times," adding that their existence should be "clearly stipulated in the supreme law of this country."

The LDP, which has been in power for most of the time since 1955, has stated its goal of revising the Constitution, which some conservatives within the party view as a humiliating "imposition" by the United States following Japan's surrender.

The general public and left-leaning opposition parties, however, have been divided over changing Article 9, as many believe it has brought peace to Japan, enabling the Asian nation to avoid involvement in conflicts over the past seven decades.

Kishida, who took office in October 2021, pledged to achieve constitutional reform during his tenure as LDP president, saying the supreme law should be amended "in response to the demands of the times."

But he decided not to submit a draft constitutional reform to this year's ordinary parliamentary session that ended in June, as his ruling party was rattled by a slush funds scandal that has crucially undermined public trust in politics.

The 1947 Constitution, created in response to Japan's wartime military aggression, renounces war and bans the possession of military forces and other "war potential" in Article 9.

The LDP hopes to add an explicit reference to the SDF into the Constitution to leave no room for the argument that having armed organizations, even for self-defense, violates the pacifist charter.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 8, 2024 - 06:48 | Sports, Olympics, All

Japan's medal quest in the artistic swimming team event came up short Wednesday for the second consecutive Olympics with a fifth-place finish at the Paris Games.

Japan scored 252.7533 points in the day's acrobatic routine for a total of 880.6841 from three routines at the Aquatics Centre in Saint-Denis, where China topped the United States 996.1389 to 914.3421 for its first-ever Olympic artistic swimming gold.

Spain rounded out the podium with 900.7319 followed by host France on 886.6487 which moved past Japan by turning in the third-highest score in the acrobatic routine.

Japan needed to move up at least one spot with an impressive performance in the last of three stages of the competition after ranking fourth after the previous day's free routine.

But the Japanese women, aged between 16 and 29, could only manage the seventh-highest mark in the 10-team field in the acrobatic routine.

"I'm so disappointed because we worked so hard for three years (after the Tokyo Olympics), but we can't change what just happened," said Megumu Yoshida, who was also a member of the previous Olympic team that finished fourth.

"We wanted to thank our coaches and others who supported us by showing off medals," she said. "It was a lot of work with much trial and error even after we came to Paris. To be honest, we wanted to calm down a little bit before the start of our competition."

China had the best score in each of the technical, free and acrobatic routines, building on the success at international competitions in recent years.

"Their (China's) execution is just out of this world," said Jacklyn Luu of the United States. "When you see them swim, they are like machines out there. So clean."

"We wanted to take some of that into our own swims and really execute our own routines to the best of our abilities, and it worked in our favor."

Longtime powerhouse Russia is not competing in Paris after the invasion of Ukraine, leaving the competition more open than usual.

Russians won gold in both the team and duet event at the previous six Olympics, including in 2021 competing under the banner of the Russian Olympic Committee.

"We are extremely happy we won today, especially because it would be an immense opportunity for China to progress in this sport, in this discipline," Wang Liuyi said.

Men were eligible to compete in the sport, formerly known as synchronized swimming, for the first time in Olympic history but none of the 10 teams had a male swimmer.

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Two days after Bangladesh was pushed into chaos following protests, the flight services from India to Dhaka resumed on Wednesday.

A special Air India flight brought 205 people, including six infants, from Dhaka to New Delhi on Wednesday morning. The chartered flight, which took off for the Bangladesh capital late Tuesday, was operated with an A321 neo aircraft.



The flight brought back 205 people -- 199 adults and six infants -- from Dhaka. Air India operated the flight, which took off from the national capital without any passengers, at a very short notice despite infrastructure challenges at the airport there, said the official in the know of the developments.

While Air India will operate its scheduled flights from Delhi to Dhaka on Wednesday, Vistara and IndiGo will also operate their scheduled flights.

Besides its two scheduled flights from Delhi to Dhaka, Air India may also operate special flights to bring back Indian citizens from the Bangladesh capital, sources told PTI. The airline had operated its evening flight to Dhaka on Tuesday, after cancelling the morning flight to the city.



A statement by Air India said a one-time waiver on rescheduling is being offered to passengers having confirmed bookings on any of its flights to and from Dhaka between August 4 and 7. The offer will be applicable for tickets booked on or prior to August 5.



As per schedule, Vistara operates daily flights from Mumbai and three weekly services from Delhi to Dhaka while IndiGo operates one daily flight from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai to Dhaka, and two daily services to the Bangladesh capital from Kolkata.



The Indian Railways had suspended all trains between the countries following unrest in the neighbouring country. According to the Railway Ministry, Maitri Express, Bandhan Express and Mitali Express operated their last trips in mid-July this year and have been cancelled since then due to violent protests in Bangladesh.


Almost a week has passed since the Supreme Court pronounced its judgment on sub-classification of the Scheduled Castes for the purpose of reservation in jobs and educational institutions, but the two principal national parties, the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress, have so far failed to make their stand clear on the court's order.

The two national parties are treading cautiously on the issue, their assessment being that the court order will have wide political ramifications and how it will play out on the ground politically and electorally has to be understood properly.

During the Supreme Court hearings on the issue, the Centre had spoken in support of sub-categorisation of SCs and STs. The party has also made an effort to enhance its support among non-dominant SCs and Other Backward Castes. Its electoral successes in the politically crucial Uttar Pradesh has been in a large measure due to the support it has received from non-Jatav Dalits and non-Yadav OBCs. However, there appears to be a divide within the BJP on the issue and some of its allies too have reacted adversely to the court order.

According to BJP leaders, it has to be assessed how the Dalit community looks at the court order. There are already views expressed by Dalit leaders cutting across parties that the implementation of the court order could splinter the Scheduled Castes and they could be divided politically. Also, while many in the BJP may be in favour of sub-categorisation, the party has reservations about introducing the concept of creamy layer for the SCs, something that the apex court order prescribed.

The ruling BJP also has to take into account the opposition to sub-categorisation of Dalits from some of its allies. The Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), a key Bihar ally, has said the party will appeal against the Supreme Court order.

The Congress also has so far not made clear its official stand on the Supreme Court order. While its governments in the southern states of Telangana and Karnataka have hailed the court order and said they would implement it, there is concern in the party about how it could play out in the northern states. Already some Dalit leaders in the party belonging to the northern states have suggested that the party should file an appeal against it in the top court.

The top leadership of the Congress, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi, has held discussions on the court order. Further discussions will be held with chief ministers of Congress-ruled states and presidents of the party's state units before the party finalises its stand on the judgment.
Will Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot sanction the prosecution of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment case? The ruling Congress fears that Gehlot might follow the footsteps of his predecessor Hansraj Bhardwaj, who, in 2011, had sanctioned prosecution of the then chief minister B.S. Yediyurappa following the latters indictment in the Lokayukta report on illegal mining case.

Bhardwaj had sanctioned prosecution of Yediyurappa under the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988, for his involvement in the illegal mining of iron ore in the state and charges of illegal land denotification and nepotism.

Today, the script is the same, but players seem to have changed. Siddaramaiah finds himself cornered, even as fears of Gehlot doing a Bharadwaj cannot be ruled out and the infighting among the CM aspirants is no longer hidden.

Last time, two advocatesSirajin Basha and K.N. Balarajrequested sanction of the governor to prosecute the CM facing grave allegations of corruption. This time, an RTI activist has petitioned the governor seeking his nod to prosecute Siddaramaiah. The governor issued a show-cause notice to the chief minister after RTI activist T.J. Abraham on July 26 sought his consent to prosecute the CM alleging massive irregularities in the MUDA site allotment and the involvement of CMs family in the scam.

Bharadwajs decision to allow prosecution of BJPs veteran leader Yediyurappa, an incumbent CM, had caused huge embarrassment to the BJP. Yediyurappa, who had installed the first BJP government in South India in 2008, had to suffer ignominy as the first incumbent chief minister to be prosecuted and subsequently jailed.

The two circumstances are different as no investigating agency has filed a report indicting the current CM.

The state cabinet, which was chaired by deputy chief minister D.K. Shivakumar (after CM recused from the meeting) on August 1, had passed a resolution seeking to advise the governor to withdraw the show-cause notice issued to the chief minister and to reject the petition of the RTI activist. The Congress ministers also claimed that the chief secretary had already responded to an earlier notice issued by the governor and that the sanction for prosecution was uncalled for.

The government has constituted a one-member commission of retired Justice P.N. Desai to probe into the case. The governor should at least wait for the report before taking any further action as it concerns the chief minister and a democratically elected government, said Shivakumar.

Meanwhile, the opposition partiesBJP and JDSwhich are on a joint 7-day padayatra from Bengaluru to Mysuru, are demanding the CMs resignation and a CBI probe into the alleged scam. They mocked that the CMs clean image had been tainted. Leader of the opposition R. Ashok who, along with state party chief B Y Vijayendra and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, leading the padayatra slammed the chief minister for making false claims.

The 3 acres 16 guntas of land in Devanur layout gifted to CMs wife by her brother is illegal as the land belongs to a dalit family and was purchased without the consent of the legal heirs. Also, the MUDA, under political pressure, denotified the land which was already acquired, developed and distributed to the beneficiaries. In 2021, MUDA, under its 50:50 scheme for land-losers, ordered allotment of 14 residential sites measuring a total of 38,284 sq. ft in the upscale Vijayanagar 3rd and 4th stages, instead of Devanur layout, despite the latter having several vacant sites, as the land price in Vijayanagar is high. This smacks of nepotism and corruption. The CM should have surrendered the sites if he is non-corrupt. In fact, MUDA has illegally allotted more than 500 sites to CMs close aides, claimed Ashok.

When will the P.N. Desai committee give the report? The CM is buying time by hurriedly appointing a committee, mocked the BJP leaders.

Amid protests, the governors visit to Delhi has set tongues wagging in the political circles as sources claimed that Gehlot had had a series of meetings with legal experts. Even as he is examining the documents pertaining to the alleged scam, the governor also summoned the petitioner (Abraham) to Raj Bhavan seeking further clarifications after the Congress dubbed him as a blackmailer.

Siddaramaiah who had earlier refused to reply to the show-cause notice stating the governor was a puppet in the hands of the BJP has now quietly replied to the notice and dubbed the allegation as baseless and unwarranted. He is said to have submitted documents to substantiate that the site allotment was as per procedure.

Siddaramaiah, who is facing the heat over the MUDA scam and also the Valmiki corporation scam (siphoning off funds) which is being probed by SIT, ED and CBI, is fighting a lone battle to get his name cleared. On August 9, Siddaramaiah will be hosting a mega convention in Mysuru, his home turf, to counter all the allegations of corruption.

The governor is weighing his options and could order an independent inquiry or issue a second notice to the chief minister. However, if the governor sanctions prosecution, it would be a major jolt to the ruling Congress and the incumbent chief minister.

AICC general secretaries K.C. Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala, who visited Bengaluru recently, cracked the whip on disgruntled legislators and party leaders and asked them to back the chief minister. The party is mulling over seeking legal recourse, too, if need be. The party high command has decided to launch a nation-wide agitation against the "high-handedness" of the governor backed by the Centre.

Interestingly, this is not the first time that Siddaramaiah has been charged of illegal denotification of land. In 2015, during his first stint as the chief minister, then leader of opposition Jagadish Shettar had alleged that Siddaramaiah had illegally denotified 541 acres of land in the Arkavathy layout to raise funds for the 2014 parliamentary elections despite objections from the Urban Development department. The irregularities were reported from Rachenahalli, Jakkur among others, the BJP had claimed.

To counter the protests, Siddaramaiah had ordered an inquiry by a retired judge of the Karnataka High Court, Justice Kempanna into all land transactions since 2003, till the revised modification scheme of 2014 for 1,766.07 acres (as submitted to the high court). But the fate of the inquiry remained a mystery.

This time, Siddaramaiah will perhaps need to do better to cleanse himself of the taint and to ensure the stability of his government.
The controversial Mullaperiyar Dam issue was raised in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday as Congress MPs Dean Kuriakose, Hibi Eden and Benny Behanan submitted a notice for adjournment motion in Parliament, demanding the decommissioning of the 130-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam.

Emphasising the "imminent danger to the lives of people living near the dam", Kuriakose urged the House to pause its proceedings and urgently debate this critical issue.



The Mullaperiyar Dam issue has long been a contentious dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Located on the Periyar River in Kerala, the dams ownership and operation rights belong to Tamil Nadu. Constructed in 1895 during British rule, the dam was designed to divert water from the west-flowing Periyar River to the arid regions of Tamil Nadu for irrigation. The 999-year lease agreement for this arrangement was signed in 1886 between the Maharaja of Travancore (Kerala) and the British government.



Kerala argues that the dam is unsafe and advocates for the construction of a new dam while Tamil Nadu maintains that the existing dam is secure and opposes building a new one. The dispute has persisted despite numerous talks and court rulings.



"It was when the Central Water Commission visited Mullaperiyar in 1979 that the world first learned about the dangerous situation of this dam. Now, the dam is almost 130 years old. If something unfortunate happens, the lives and property of lakhs of people in five districts of Kerala will be at risk. The people of the region have been living in great fear for the past few decades," Kuriakose posted on social media upon submitting the motion.



Kuriakose has called the existing dam a "water bomb" and has demanded the construction of a new dam without affecting the existing water supply agreement with Tamil Nadu. According to the Dam Safety Act of 2021, the National Dam Safety Authority and the states involved must make decisions jointly. He urged the Center to facilitate the construction of a new dam by achieving consensus between the two states, adding that Kerala is ready to undertake the job of constructing the new dam.


National Conference (NC) president and former chief minister Farooq Abdullah said on Wednesday that his party will not form alliances in the upcoming Assembly elections.

"No, there wouldn't be any alliance," Abdullah told reporters. His statement makes it clear that the NC will not join forces with any party, including the INDIA bloc, particularly the Congress, with which it had allied for the Lok Sabha polls.

In the Lok Sabha elections, the NC and the Congress supported each other. The NC fielded candidates in three seats in Kashmir, including Anantnag-Rajouri, and the Congress on two seats in the Jammu region. The NC won two seats in KashmirSrinagar and Anantnag-Rajouribut lost the Baramulla Parliamentary constituency to the jailed leader of the Awami Itehad Party, Abdul Rashid Sheikh, better known as Engineer Rashid. Rashid defeated Omar Abdullah by a margin of more than 1.5 lakh votes.

The NC had refused to agree to a seat-sharing arrangement with the PDP, forcing the latter to put up candidates on all three seats in Kashmir.

The NCs decision to go solo in the Assembly polls comes a day before the Election Commission of India (ECI) begins a three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir to decide on holding Assembly elections in the Union Territory. Elections in J&K were last held in 2014, bringing to power a coalition government of the BJP and the PDP, which collapsed in June 2018, leading to direct central rule and the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, by the BJP government.

The NCs decision to contest without allying with any party will impact the election results. Observers believe the BJP stands to gain if the regional parties fail to put up a joint front against the party, especially in Jammus Muslim-majority areas. A division of votes in Muslim-majority areas will benefit the BJP, which led in 29 of the 34 seats in the two Lok Sabha constituencies of Jammu and Udhampur.
Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan will not be hosting the 'At Home' reception, which was scheduled to be held on the evening of Independence Day. Raj Bhavan decided to cancel the event in light of the recent tragic loss of lives in Wayanad due to natural calamities.



The 'At Home' reception is a customary event where the governor invites dignitaries and officials to celebrate nationally important occasions.



In the catastrophic series of landslides that struck the Wayanad district on July 30, more than 400 people have died. According to the official stats of the state government, 224 bodies and 189 body parts have been recovered. As many as 178 bodies and 2 body parts have been released to relatives.

ALSO READ: Wayanad landslides: Heroic rescue team braves night in forest with victim's corpse

Earlier this year, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his council of ministers boycotted the Republic Day 'At Home' reception hosted by Khan. This followed Khan's decision to cut short his policy address to the budget session in the Kerala assembly, wrapping up his speech in less than two minutes due to the rift with the government. The Chief Secretary and state DGP also did not attend the Republic Day reception, with the only official present being the then Principal Secretary of the General Administration Department.



Notably, after the Wayanad landslides, Governor Khan endorsed the sentiments expressed by CM Vijayan, who highlighted the resilience and generosity displayed by the people of Kerala during the floods of 2018 and 2019. The governor also donated Rs 5 lakh to the Chief Ministers Disaster Relief Fund. Khan called the landslides a colossal tragedy and made a plea for people to come forward and assist the victims. He also told the media that he dedicated most of his speech at the recent governors conference to talk about Wayanad.
The Indian security establishment might not have been prepared for the mass uprising in Bangladesh, but the sudden turn of events and ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas landing in New Delhi on August 5 have prompted the security brass in Delhi to put their best foot forward. Efforts are afoot to ensure that the interim government in Bangladesh does not have objections to Hasinas stay in India.

With Hasina and Bangladeshi officials in New Delhi weighing the pros and cons of her shifting to another country, officials in New Delhi are moving swiftly to ensure that the time she spends on Indian soil is safe and does not become an irritant for the interim government.

Sources said it is important to take the next government on board if a decision is taken to extend Hasinas stay, and no time is being wasted to ensure stability in ties as well as regional cooperation.

New Delhi is keeping in mind the short term and long term measures that need to be taken for regional security while ensuring that Hasina remains protected on its soil.

The move comes at a time when Hasina will explore options and New Delhi will keep in mind that the host country, under any circumstances, is not put under pressure to extradite her at any stage.

While the USs stand on the developments has become clear, the option of UK is also ruled out .

The US has been citing concerns of democracy and imposing visa restrictions, said an official, ruling out her entry into Western Europe where she may face an uncertain future. This being the key concern, sources said, there is no hurry to shift base.

While Dubai emerged as a destination being considered for a longer duration of stay, the option of Abu Dhabi is also being explored while staying in India isnt being ruled out yet.

At the moment, the Indian security establishment is prepared to host its guest for as long as she desires since she feels at home given a similar experience in 1975.

This time, the arrangements were made even before she landed and the safe house was made comfortable for her stay, giving her the option of extending the halt indefinitely or even flying out the moment she desires.
On Teej, one of the most significant days in the Hindu calendar, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was in Ayodhya paying his respect to Ramchandra Paramhans Das, one of the leaders of the Ram Janmbhoomi Movement.

It was the death anniversary of Das. But Yogis visit went beyond paying respect. He said that the late saint was committed to building a grand temple of Rammuch like Adityanaths own guru Advaityanath.

Today temples are being broken in Indias neighbouring countrya society which does not understand from the errors of history, has to suffer, he said.

He added, The mandir is just a stop, it is not the destination. We have to keep moving like this

Adityanath, however, was not just making symbolic gestures in Ayodhya. He announced that a trauma centre will come up in the district and asked officials to identify land as soon as possible.

On Tuesday, the CM chaired a meeting to take stock of the upcoming byelection in which two seats (one each in Faizabad and Ambedkarnagar) go to the polls soon. He has taken charge of both, after BJP lost Ayodhya in the Lok Sabha election. On Wednesday, the meeting to review the preparedness was in Ambedkarnagar where workers were told to meet each segment of voters.

The Milkipur seat in Ayodhya fell vacant after sitting MLA Awdhesh Prasad of the Samajwadi Party resigned following his win in the Lok Sabha polls. Prasad defeated BJPs Lallu Singh in Faizabad seat.

The Katehari seat in Ambedkarnagar was also vacated by SPs Lalji Verma. On both seats, the offsprings of the former occupants are the strongest contenders, and thus the BJP has to work against this sentiment of carryover popularity, too.

Adityanath asked workers to focus on strengthening campaign at the booth-level, and also on checking for any bogus names in the voters list. He asked workers to stay away from any show during the election campaign but to work quietly with the voters.

The criticism that party workers have not been given the respect they deserve is set to be met adequately. Chairman and other political posts of corporations, boards and commissions will be filled soon. These are posts that go as rewards to party workers. This step will also take the sting out of deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Mauryas comment that its the party and not the government which wins elections.

Both deputy CMs have their own charges for the byelections and are likely to keep busy with that going forward. Of the two, Maurya has the relatively easier Phulpur and Manjhawa; while Brajesh Pathaks charges are traditional Samajwadi Party strongholdsKarhal and Sisamau.
A young Tech startup then, Google was launched in the year 1998. A few months later, in 1999, south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh under the chief ministership of Chandrababu Naidu experimented with e-governance by introducing APSWAN (AP State Wide Area Network) which connected capital Hyderabad with district headquarters for effective communication.

CM Naidu has since then been known for leveraging technology for efficient administration as he conducted video conferences with district collectors and senior officials during his term. Two and a half decades later, global tech major Google and its subsidiary YouTube were part of a video conference with Naidu exploring strategic collaborations.

On Tuesday, Naidu, the fourth time CM, virtually interacted with Neal Mohan, Global CEO of YouTube and Sanjay Gupta, President, Asia Pacific region at Google. The idea behind the meeting was to herald a new chapter in the digital journey of the state.

The state government is keen on setting up a YouTube academy in the new capital of the residual state of AP. Both the parties agreed to delve deeper into the opportunity. Apart from that, an MoU is also expected to be signed between the state and the global corporate companies under the initiative of AI for Andhra Pradesh, Powered by Google. This partnership will help in implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven governance apart from extending AI to fields like agriculture, healthcare, and sustainability, skill development, AI workforce cultivation and MSME.

Andhra Pradesh is on a trajectory to become India's digital epicenter, and we are enthused about the prospects of partnering with global pioneers like Google and YouTube, stated Naidu during the meeting.

He later tweeted,  we explored avenues for providing technical support for the Media City initiative in our capital, Amaravati.

With the capital project of Amaravati back on track, the TDP government has expedited the developmental work. As a start, the government has officially begun the jungle clearance works that will weed out bushes in the region and the deadline has been 30 days from now. Keeping in mind the recent union budgetary allocations for Amaravati, the government is also moving fast and is looking at different models including Navi Mumbai for replication of ideal urban development designs. The government is also looking to kickstart various infrastructure projects and also hopeful of big investments in the coming future.
Barely two weeks after 18 people were killed in Nepal when a plane crashed and caught fire shortly after taking off from the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, five people were killed when a chopper crashed in Shivapuri National Park in Nuwakot.

According to Kathmandu Post, four of the deceased are Chinese nationals.

The 9N-AJD chopper belonging to Air Dynasty, and flown by Captain Arun Malla, took off from Kathmandu for Syaprubesi, Rasuwa, the spokesperson of Tribhuvan International Airport said.

The Himalayan Times reported that the chopper lost contact with the tower merely three minutes after the take-off.

Search and rescue operations are underway.

On July 24, Bombardier CRJ-200 aircraft of Saurya Airlines, carrying 19 people, including two crew members and technical staff of the airline, crashed, killing 18 people, including a child.
Days after ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, reports emerged that 20 leaders of her Awami League party were found dead and Hindu temple, homes and businesses were vandalised in the riots.

Leaders of the student protests have urged people not to attack the Hindu minority in the country. The attacks against the minority comes as Hindus traditionally supported Hasina's Awami League. Mobs have also targets police stations and prisons.

According to Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, around 200 to 300 homes of the minorities and 15 to 20 temples were attacked since Monday. Around 40 people have also been injured.

All Indian diplomats are reportedly staying at the Indian High Commission office in Dhaka while non-essential staff and their families were evacuated from the consulates in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna and Sylhet.

Meanwhile, security agencies are on alert on the Bangladesh border to track illegal entry of people into Indian territory. Air India brought 205 people, including six infants, to from Dhaka to Delhi in a chartered flight amid operational challenges on Wednesday morning.

According to officials, there are around 19,000 Indians in Bangladesh, including 9,000 students.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the leader of the interim government with the support of the military. However, the violence is still continuing in several parts of the country. Around 300 to 400 bank officials have forced four deputy governors of the country's central bank Bangladesh Bank over corruption allegations.
Bangladesh is currently with no administration following the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the interim government yet to take charge. The country is grappling with vandalism, violence and arson, which have strained its internal security system.



According to reports, approximately 500 people lost their lives in Bangladesh between Sunday and Tuesday. On Tuesday, the bodies of 29 Awami League leaders and their family members were recovered from across Bangladesh.

Minority communities have also been targeted by angry mobs across the country. Mobs have desecrated national properties, including the Prime Minister's residence, chief justice's residence, police stations and murals of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh. People have been burned alive and lynched to death in many regions of the country.

The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC), a non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding the rights of religious and ethnic minorities in the country, reported that Hindu residences, businesses, and temples were targeted, looted, and vandalized across 29 districts of Bangladesh.

Civil society members, intellectuals and eminent personalities condemned the brazen violence and attacks on the symbols that represent the People's Republic of Bangladesh.

In response to the recent violence and vandalism across Bangladesh, a group of students and ordinary citizens have stepped forward to restore normalcy and address the law and order situation in the country. Citizens are maintaining vigilance in front of places of worship belonging to minority communities to safeguard them from potential attacks. Notably, a group of students and local residents provided security at the Sri Sri Bura Shibbari temple in Sylhets Habibganj district throughout the night on Monday.

In addition, local residents were also seen safeguarding temples in various regions of Bangladesh, including Comilla, Noakhali, and Barishal.

Attacks on minorities are very disappointing. We did not expect this. Thats why we are seeing incidents of violence and attacks on minorities, said Md. Moajjam Hossain, a coordinator of Students Against Discrimination, the group which led the anti-Hasina movement.

Key positions of power in government are lying empty resulting in lack of governance. Thats why students and local people across Bangladesh have formed groups and committees to ensure peace in their locality, he added.

After more than 400 police stations were attacked, vandalised and looted, most of the police officials have stopped working in fear. In a press release on Tuesday, the Bangladesh Police Association declared an indefinite strike.

In such a scenario, students stepped in to operate the vacant traffic signals and key intersections in the congested Dhaka city. Reportedly, they are also checking vehicles to retrieve materials that were looted from Ganabhaban, the Prime Ministers residence, on Monday. If found, the items are being handed over to the Army for their restoration.

Besides, the students were also undertaking a cleanliness drive of the streets. They were joined by members of several religious and social organisations.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left her country on August 5. She fled the country amid week-long protests and non-stop chaos in Dhaka and elsewhere across the country. As soon as news about Hasina fleeing the country spread out, the protesters swarmed into her residence in the capital much similar to what played out in Sri Lanka against Gotabaya Rajapaksa in 2022.

Years of economic mismanagement snowballed into a huge peoples movement called as Aragalaya in Sri Lanka in 2022. The Aragalya was led by the students and the people in Sri Lanka. Aragalaya, which means Struggle in Sinhala, became a mass movement which brought the people to the Galle Face near the President Secretariat in Colombo. The petrol crisis, the long queues in front of the fuel stations, super markets, long hours of electricity cuts and foreign currency shortage led to the people's struggle in Sri Lanka. Gotabaya left the country and his brother Mahinda resigned as the Prime Minister. Gotabaya stayed in the Maldives and Singapore and returned to Colombo after a year. The country saw a change in leadership and Ranil Wickremesinghe took charge as the President.

Exactly two years down the line as Sri Lanka is heading for a crucial presidential election, the Inter University Students Federation (IUSF) of Sri Lanka has expressed solidarity with the students union leading the protests in Bangladesh. Speaking to THE WEEK over a zoom call from Colombo, IUSF leader Madhushan Chandrajith shared his views and support to the Bangladesh people struggle.

Excerpts

Q. As a student leader who was part of Aragalaya, how do you look at the students protest in Bangladesh?

It is quite a momentous decision by the students of Bangladesh to lead the protest and ouster an undemocratic leader. We, the students of Sri Lanka, share their exhilaration and aspirations. Their courage in kindling the flames of hope today is a testament to the power of the people. As their counterparts in Sri Lanka, we have extended our heartfelt congratulations on this historic milestone achieved through collective strength. We, too, have traversed a similar path. In 2022, the Sri Lankan populace ousted the tyrannical regime of Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, a racist despot.

Q. What is your advice to the student union in Bangaldesh?

While we fought our leaders here in Sri Lanka we learnt many lessons. It was a sure victory for us to get rid of Gotabaya. One lesson we learnt was to keep the voices, particularly the community voices heard as always. So we initiated a process and set up the Peoples council which will comprise activists, students, and the general public to work among the common man. This was to ensure that the community voices are loud and the people get the platform they deserve. We wanted the people's voice to be heard all over the country. So we have passed on this lesson we learnt to sustain the protest movement through community voices to the Bangladesh students.

Q. Did the students union from Bangladesh reach out to you?

Yes. Not now. They have been in touch with us since our 2022 Aragalaya movement, since our then student leader Wasantha Mudalige was arrested and jailed. They extended support to us then and expressed solidarity. So are we. The connection between the two unions existed since then. And in the past few months, the relationship has grown strong. They reached out to the IUSF for advice and also to discuss the ongoing situation. We proposed several ideas to them, as to how they can go forward. We suggested that a vibrant discourse can flourish within peoples councils that genuinely empower the citizenry. By establishing a peoples government grounded in such structures and underpinned by a transformative social, economic, and political agenda, Bangladesh can achieve a truly resounding victory.

Q. You mentioned the People's Council. Where does it stand now in Sri Lanka?

The idea to set up the Peoples Council came up when the protests were happening at the Galle Face in 2022. The idea of the council at the first instance was to tackle the economic crisis and ouster Gotabaya. But after Gotas exit, people felt that the GoHomeGota slogan was successful and felt they need not protest anymore. But we ensured that the council was informed that their protest should go beyond this one individual and there are many issues like abolishing executive presidency, bringing in amendments to the constitution and pushing the country beyond the economic crisis. Now we have more than 40 councils across provinces in Sri Lanka and all of them act individually addressing the community issues, even though we have a central committee.

Q. What do you have to say about the situation in Bangladesh now?

The expulsion of the autocratic and murderous Hasina regime marks a significant victory in the united struggle of students and people. Yet, a crucial question looms large: who shall assume the mantle of leadership in Bangladesh post-Hasina. Will it be the ascent of another ruthless ruling clique, as witnessed in Sri Lanka, or the spectre of repressive military dominance. It is imperative that Bangladesh avoids the clutches of either a capitalist oligarchy or an authoritarian military junta, thereby safeguarding the fruits of the collective sacrifice of the protesters. So we proposed the establishment of a peoples government which will mark a victory for the revolution led by the students.
Two days after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Dhaka for India following unrest in her country, Pakistan has finally reacted to the situation in Bangladesh, stating that it stands in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh.

In a carefully worded response, Pakistan said it hoped for a "peaceful and swift return to normalcy". "The government and people of Pakistan stand in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh, sincerely hoping for a peaceful and swift return to normalcy," the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.



Islamabad has been, ironically, keeping mum on the developments in Bangladesh, which once was a part of it. Many think Pakistan's stance of not reacting to the unrest was deliberate and in view of the sensitivity involved.



"Pakistan's move not to officially comment on the events in Bangladesh is deliberate and keeping in view the sensitivities," diplomatic sources told Express Tribune. "But that does not mean that Pakistan is not following the developments that will have ramifications for the region and the country itself," a diplomatic source told the website.



He added that that though Islamabad was silent, policymakers were already discussing the possible implications, and importantly opportunities, to reset the troubled ties with Bangladesh.



Pakistan never shared warm relations with Hasina, considering the grudge her family had towards Pakistan's ruling class. Hasina, daughter of Bangladesh founder Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, had sought Pakistan's apology for the events of 1971. Hasina's proximity with India too had soured Pakistan's relations with Bangladesh.



However, with the Awami League facing uncertainty, there are hopes that Pakistan might get a chance to reset its equations with Bangladesh, experts believe. The country hopes the next dispensation in Dhaka will unlikely be hostile towards Islamabad.



"India is obviously worried and concerned. Hence, Jaishankar in his address in Rajya Sabha was quite measured, leaving the door open for engagement with Dhaka. New Delhi would work hard to safeguard its diplomatic and economic interests as well as security for the Hindu community in Bangladesh," Abdul Basit, Pakistan's former ambassador to New Delhi, told Express Tribune.



He said Pakistan should not get overwhelmed with the change of government in Dhaka. "As for Pakistan, we must not get carried away and treat the change as their internal matter. We must avoid making loose and patronising statements," he added. "Now that Sheikh Hasina is gone, one can hope Dhaka would willingly respond to Pakistan's goodwill and work together to inject more and more substance into bilateral relations," Basit added.


JAKARTA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia's national police counterterrorism squad Densus 88 has arrested two individuals on suspicion of terrorism activities, according to the squad spokesperson Aswin Siregar on Wednesday.

The suspects, who allegedly have ties to the Islamic State (IS) group, were apprehended in the western part of the capital Jakarta on Tuesday.

Siregar said the two suspects actively shared content supporting the IS group on social media and had plans for terrorist acts.

The anti-terror squad also seized an airsoft gun, an IS flag, and explosives, in this case, he added. 
There has been widespread rejoicing, jubilation, merrymaking, exuberance, and glee in Bangladesh over the downfall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and her fleeing the country. Students, in particular, are hailing it as a great victory, and Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus has called it a second liberation.

I too am glad that the autocratic Sheikh Hasina has gone, but I am constrained to say that all this celebration, jollification, festivity, frolic and hoopla at her departure will be short-lived, and then dark clouds will descend over Bangladesh. Consider the facts.

Soon after Sheikh Hasina's resignation, the Bangladesh army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that an interim government will be formed. This itself shows that it will be the army which will call the shots now in Bangladesh

It has been announced that an interim government headed by the 83-year-old Muhammad Yunus has been formed by the Bangladesh President.

To my mind, this government will be like the government of Pakistan, a mere figurehead, with real power being with the army. After all, as the adage goes, power grows out of the barrel of a gun. So the real ruler of Bangladesh will be Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman, not Muhammad Yunus, just as when the Consulate was formed in France in 1799 the real power was with Gen Napoleon Bonaparte, while the other consuls were just figureheads.

But what will this interim government do? There is massive poverty and unemployment in Bangladesh. In fact the agitation and protests of students which led to Sheikh Hasina's ouster was due to widespread unemployment in Bangladesh.

Can the new interim government solve the problem of unemployment ? I believe it cannot. Nor can it solve the problems of poverty, malnutrition, price rise, lack of proper healthcare and good education, etc, though from time to time it will dish out false statistics painting a glowing and rosy picture about the 'great progress' made in these fields.

As Mark Twain said, there are lies, damned lies, and statistics.

Ultimately, when all other methods of deceiving and befooling the public fail, the government will fall back and take recourse to the time tested method of blaming the minorities for all that ails the country, and incite and organise attacks against, as in Kristallnacht in 1938. In other words, the Hindus in Bangladesh will become like the Jews in Nazi Germany, and like the Ahmadis, Hindus, Christians and Sikhs in Pakistan.

Justice Markandey Katju retired from the Supreme Court in 2011.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.
Palestinian militant group Hamas has named Yahya Sinawar, the architect of the October 7 attacks on Israel, as its new leader. This comes as its political chief Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran last week.

Sinawar, who is currently holed up in Gaza, is the groups chief decision-maker and is said to be in control of the 120 Israeli hostages. "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.

Who is Sinawar?

Yahya Sinawar is a founding member of Hamas and is the groups most powerful figure. The 61-year-old Sinawar is viewed as one of Hamass most extreme figures and Israel's 'most wanted man'.

Born in a refugee camp at the southern end of the Gaza Strip, Sinawar was drawn into Islamist activism when he studied at the Islamic University of Gaza in the early 1980s. In 1987, he joined the newly created group Hamas. One of his initial chores was as head of its nascent intelligence service, detecting spies and bringing to light Israel collaborators.

He was arrested the next year by Israel and 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". Unconfirmed reports say Sinwar refused to talk to any Israelis and personally punished those who did.

He was released from Israeli prison in 2011 along with 1,000 others in exchange for the release of Gilad Shalit, an Israeli soldier captured by Hamas five years earlier. He immediately was back to the leadership role, assuming the overall command of Hamas in Gaza, coordinating with Hamass military and civil administrative wings. The US includes Sinwar on its blacklist of "international terrorists".

Israel's chief military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, said his country would continue to target 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. "That is the only place we're preparing and intending for him."

'End of moderation'

The appointment of Sinawar as the group's head comes as Israel braces for a likely attack from Iran following the killing of Haniyeh. "The appointment means that Israel needs to face Sinwar over a solution to Gaza war," a regional diplomat familiar with the talks brokered by Egypt and Qatar told Reuters. "It is a message of toughness and it is uncompromising."

Many believe Sinawar's appointment suggested that Hamas could toughen its position in ceasefire negotiations and make it harder to reach a deal.

Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment, told The Guardian that "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."
Though it was Sheikh Hasina who appointed Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman as the army chief of Bangladesh in June, Zaman decided not to return the favour as he informed Hasina that she no longer enjoyed the army's support.

The crucial conversation that led to Hasina fleeing Dhaka for India happened on Sunday night. Zaman had a meeting with his generals on the crucial night before he decided that troops would not open fire on civilians to enforce a curfew, Reuters quoted two serving army officers.



Gen. Zaman then reached out to Hasina's office to inform the Prime Minister that she no longer had the army's support and would not be implementing the lockdown.



Though Army spokesman Lt. Col. confirmed the Sunday evening discussions to Reuters, he described as a regular meeting to take updates after any disturbance.

The widespread protests rocking the country, which claimed the lives of at least 241 people, had created a lot of uneasiness within the troops, which forced Gen Zaman to take the decision. "That is what probably (put) pressure on the chief of army staff because the troops are out and they are seeing what is happening," Retired Brig. Gen. M. Sakhawat Hossain told Reuters.



Zaman, who is related to Hasina by marriage, addressed hundreds of uniformed officers in a town hall meeting where he said that lives had to be protected. He also called on his officers to show patience, army spokesman Chowdhury later told reporters. This was the first hint that Bangladesh's army would not forcefully suppress the violent demonstrations.



Retired senior soldiers such as Brig. Gen. Mohammad Shahedul Anam Khan was among those who defied the curfew on Monday and took to the streets. "We were not stopped by the army," said Khan, a former infantry soldier. "The army has done what he had promised the army would do."

Interestingly, reports claim that Indian government officials had alerted Hasina about the potential dangers associated with the appointment of General Waker-Uz-Zaman as Army Chief in June of last year. Despite these warnings, Hasina moved forward with the appointment.



The Army's decision to release opposition leader Khaleda Zia of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) also hints that Islamist groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Chhatrashibir, may have influenced Zaman.


Ahmedabad/Mumbai, Aug 7 (PTI) Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) Gandhinagar on Wednesday said it has signed an agreement with the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) to set up a 'Centre of Excellence in Corporate Forensics'.

The focus of the centre will be on international arbitration, fraud investigation, data and cyber security, cyber forensics, fintech, financial forensics as well as anti-money laundering, GIFT City said in a release.

Managing Director and Group CEO of GIFT City Tapan Ray said, "Our joint efforts will ensure that entities in GIFT City have access to top-tier talent and executive knowledge, driving innovation and excellence."

"The partnership will also promote the exchange of faculty and officers and the organisation of symposia, conferences, workshops, short courses, and research meetings," said S O Junare, Campus Director of NFSU-Gandhinagar. PTI PJT



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Natwest Group leases 3.7 lakh sq ft facility in Bengaluru



British banking and insurance company Natwest Group on Wednesday announced that it has leased a 3.7 lakh square feet facility spread across 11 floors in Bengaluru.

The company had last year announced an intent to hire up to 3,000 people in the country to support its global operations, as per an official statement.



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Creativeland Asia appoints Poran Malani as its group chief executive



Media conglomerate Creativeland Asia on Wednesday announced the appointment of Poran Malani as its group chief executive.

Malani has a three decades of experience in advertising and media, and had earlier served as the head of S4 Capital, as per an official statement.
New Delhi (India), August 6: The excitement is building as the iFestival 2024 prepares to transform New Delhi into a vibrant hub of art and design. The event was Founded by Mr Harsh Dalal and Akshra Dalal (Directors of JD image promotions Ltd.) to make sure the youth of India is all set to compete in the global design fraternity.



https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-AiUeUSUtV/?igsh=MTlscjNkMnp6OGhoNw==



Prepare yourself for an exceptional coming together of groundbreaking ideas and imaginative thinking in a two-day thrilling event at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium. On August 9th and 10th, in addition to this, students of JD Institute of Fashion Technology will transform this iconic venue into a dynamic centre of creativity and artistic expression.



For Registration : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ifestival-2024-indias-largest-student-design-festival-tickets-952428408007?aff=ebdssbdestsearch



This year's theme, Civilization Type 1, promises an unparalleled exploration of futuristic design, renewable energy, and creative consciousness. As the design world eagerly anticipates this annual celebration, here are eight compelling reasons why iFestival 2024 is an unmissable event:



THE GROUNDBREAKING HIGHLIGHTS OF iFESTIVAL 2024 THIS AUGUST



1. Visionary Theme: Pioneering the Future of Design



This years festival embraces the theme Civilization Type 1, which pushes the boundaries of conventional design, challenging attendees to envision a world where sustainability and innovation coexist harmoniously. This forward-thinking approach sets the stage for revolutionary ideas in fashion, interior, and art in harmony with energy solutions. Attendees will be immersed in thought-provoking exhibits that showcase how emerging designers are reimagining fashion and interior design with a focus on sustainability and resource efficiency.



2. Indias Largest Student Design Festival



At the heart of iFestival 2024 lies a tantalising Trio of experiences, each a world unto itself. The event comprises three exciting sub-categories:



 The Fashion Awards (TFA)- A Rampwalk Revolution



Experience the glamour and excitement of TFA - The Fashion Awards as the event felicitates the future of fashion, honouring fashion icons and rising stars from diverse industries. The fashion enthusiasts will be treated to four exclusive rampwalk presentations featuring the work of talented Jediiians. From avant-garde designs to stunning presentations, TFA promises to be a dazzling display of cutting-edge fashion by the next generation of fashion icons.



 EXHIBIT X- An Interactive Design Exposition



Step into EXHIBIT X, where creativity knows no bounds. Engage with interactive installations, groundbreaking prototypes, and meticulously crafted models that offer a glimpse into the future of design. This segment is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience the forefront of design innovation.



 Camp 11820- An Artistic Haven



Be captivated by the artistic brilliance showcased at CAMP 11820, a dedicated space showcasing visionary concepts from painters and artists. Discover imaginative works curated by leading industry experts and celebrate the diverse expressions of artistic ingenuity. This segment promises to be a feast for the senses and a window into the future of artistic expression.



3. An Unprecedented Showcase of Collections, Exhibits, and Prototypes



Prepare to be inspired by over 600 talented individuals who will showcase apparel collections, exhibits, prototypes, and art installations from across India. Just as previous exhibitions have amazed with their 55+ meticulously crafted installations and 66 scintillating collections , this year promises an even more impactful experience with more than 75+ Exhibits and and 80 + collections . Witness the pinnacle of creativity and innovation, where each piece embodies bold statements and unique aesthetics.



4. Unparalleled Networking Nexus



iFestival 2024 serves as a premier networking hub, offering attendees the chance to connect with designers, artists, and industry leaders. Following in the footsteps of previous iterations, which saw the participation of luminaries like Rohit Bal , Rocky S , Sunita Kohli , CP Kukreja, Manjeet Bhullar, Nishtha Duggal , Anju Modi to name a few. This year's event promises unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and collaboration. Aspiring designers and established professionals alike will find a fertile ground for forging valuable connections.



5. Embassies Showcase: A Testament to Fashion's Borderless Nature



This years festival will be enriched by the participation of embassies from Russia and Colombia, presenting their cultural attire in harmony with the theme Civilization Type 1.



Previous events have seen cultural showcases and country representation from Japan, Italy, UAE, Peru, and Mexico, underscoring fashion's power to transcend geographical boundaries and promote global cultural dialogue.



6. Artistic Luminaries in Light



The event will be graced by the presence of renowned artists, elevating its cultural significance. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to witness works by celebrated figures such as Nawal Kishore, Manomoy Das, Arpita Mishra, and Kamini Prakash. Their masterpieces, exploring themes of nature, emotions, and life, will add depth and dimension to the festival's artistic landscape.



7. Inspiring Career Guidance



For students at a crossroads, iFestival 2024 offers dedicated spaces for career exploration and clarity. Engage with experts from JD Institute of fashion technology and gain insights that could shape your future in fashion, Interior, communication design and styling. This aspect makes iFestival not just a celebration of creativity, but also a valuable educational and career building resource.



8. Global Partnerships and Star-Studded Affair



The event celebrates I Festival's prestigious global affiliations with esteemed partners such as the Cumulus Association (International Knowledge Partner) and Fashion Partners - India Fashion Week London (IFWL) and India Fashion Week Dubai (IFWD), underscoring the communitys global influence and reach.



Additionally, the event has previously featured illustrious celebrities such as Deepika Padukone, Shabana Azmi, and Ranvijay Singha to name a few, and this year again, the festival is poised to attract a constellation of inspiring personalities. Their presence not only adds glamour but also reinforces the events status as a cultural phenomenon.



The iFestival 2024 is not just an event; it's a movement towards a more sustainable and creatively conscious future. It represents months of meticulous planning and passionate execution by the entire team.



As we stand on the cusp of a new era in design and sustainability, the iFestival emerges as a beacon of innovation and creativity. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of art, technology, and environmental consciousness.



Whether you're a seasoned professional in the design industry, a student looking to carve your path, or simply an enthusiast of creative expression, the iFestival promises an experience that will inspire, educate, and astound. Mark your calendars for August 9th and 10th, and prepare to be part of a revolution in design that could shape the future of our civilization.



(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
INDIAS FIRST AI-POWERED LIVE SEARCH ENGINE WITH REGIONAL LANGUAGE SUPPORT:



DEMOCRATIZING SEARCH FOR ALL







We are thrilled to announce the launch of Nofrills AI (www.nofrills.ai), a revolutionary AI-powered discovery engine that is set to transform the way users search and discover information, products, and services online. This innovative platform delivers real-time, accurate answers directly from the web, making information more accessible and user-friendly. As the first Indian AI search engine, Nofrills AI also stands out as the first live LLM model to support local languages, ensuring that users receive responses tailored to their language preferences. Once the language preference is set setting, the model outputs responses exclusively in that language and then on its as simple as just having a conversation!



Nofrills AI was founded by Subhash Sasidharakurup, Dileep Jacob, and Vinci Mathews, the former founders of Watasale, an AI-powered autonomous store that gained global recognition. Watasale was celebrated nationally and internationally as a remarkable achievement in AI and one of the success stories of the Indian AI ecosystem after which it was acquired by the largest company in the world at the time(Amazon). The Nofrills AI team comprises experienced professionals, mostly ex-Watasale and ex-Amazon, dedicated to leveraging artificial intelligence to improve the discovery of information, products, and services across various sectors. Our aim at Nofrills AI is to make information discovery hassle-free for all users and to facilitate meaningful actions based on the discovered information.



What is Nofrills AI?



Nofrills AI is Indias first live AI search engine interface that provides real-time answers to user queries in both English and local languages, facilitating hassle-free discovery of information, products, and services online.



Unique Features of Nofrills AI



What sets Nofrills AI apart is its ability to support both English and local languages seamlessly. Users can now choose their preferred language, ensuring that everyone can access information in a way that suits them best. This is achieved through our proprietary sophisticated hybrid technology that adapts based on the length of the response, providing clarity and precision in local languages.



Why Nofrills AI Matters?



The technologies powering Nofrills AI : WISE architecture and the neuro-symbolic model for local language supportare revolutionary innovations in the AI landscape. These advancements enable us to offer our services free of charge, supporting both English and local languages without compromising accuracy.



WISE Architecture: As the name suggests, Nofrills AI focuses on essential intelligence features to understand and interpret live web data from credible and authentic sources. Unlike global players who restrict access to strong models due to high running costs, WISE reduces parametric memory load by segregating intelligence from data. This architecture, built using open weights and fine-tuned for improved reading comprehension, can interpret live data and evaluate genuine, credible, and even sarcastic sources better than its peers while maintaining small size and lower operational costs. Neuro-Symbolic AI System for Local Language Support: One of the primary obstacles that LLM-based applications face when implementing local language support is the significant decline in accuracy resulting from the larger token size of local languages. For example, Malayalam, a language that requires roughly ten times the number of tokens for a given sentence compared to English, poses a significant challenge. This increased load can have adverse effects on both training and inference, ultimately impacting model accuracy in local languages.



To address this challenge, we have developed a hybrid approach using a neuro-symbolic framework. Our architecture estimates the output size, and if it falls below a safe threshold, the model directly generates responses in the local language. Otherwise, it invokes an intermediary translation layer. This innovative strategy ensures that accuracy in local languages is comparable to that of English, significantly enhancing user experience.



Key Takeaways:



 India;s First AI Search Engine: Nofrills AI is the first AI search engine (live LLM model) from India.



 Support for Local Languages: It is the first live LLM model to fully support local languages.



 Free Access: Nofrills AI is available free of cost to all users.



 Hassle-Free Discovery: Designed to make information discovery easy and intuitive.



 WISE Architecture: Nofrills AI is powered using Wired Intelligence for Semantic Encoding (WISE) architecture on top of SFT open weights.



 Neuro-Symbolic AI: Local language support is ensured through a neuro-symbolic AI system, enhancing accuracy and minimizing the challenges associated with increased token requirements.



 Latest Information Feeds: Nofrills AI features feeds that facilitate easy access to the latest information.  High-Impact Technology: Both the WISE architecture and the neuro-symbolic AI system represent significant technological innovations.



 Guided- Mode: To guide users to refine prompts by asking questions to get optimal results  Global Ambitions: Nofrills AI is based out of both India and the USA, with a vision to expand globally.



Nofrills AI is not just a search engine; it is a transformative platform that empowers users to discover information in their preferred language, making knowledge accessible to all says our CEO Subhash S.



For more information and to experience the future of AI-powered search,



Website: www. nofrills.ai



Email : subhash@nofrills.ai



Call: 8075968741



(Disclaimer: The above content is a press release and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
Chandigarh, Aug 7 (PTI) The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has written to the Punjab government, raising safety concerns of its officers and the staff of its contractors undertaking work in Ludhiana and Jalandhar for the construction of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway.

Following the NHAI's letter, Punjab Chief Secretary Anurag Verma on August 6 wrote to Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, asking him to lodge an FIR and take necessary action for the safety of NHAI officers and for the personnel of the contractors.

In its communication to the Punjab CS on August 5, the NHAI said that one of the employees of its contractor was brutally assaulted by some villagers in Jalandhar and the director of the contractor firm was threatened by two persons in Ludhiana.

The NHAI is constructing the four-lane greenfield Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway from junction with Ludhiana-Moga road near Mullanpur Dakha to junction with Jalandhar-Moga road near Kang Sahibu village.

The employee was assaulted when he was on duty for procuring borrow areas near village Fatehpur Nurmahal on July 20, according to NHAI's another letter written to the Jalandhar Deputy commissioner last month.

Some villagers protested and argued for stopping the construction of the project, stating that they did not need the road.

Citing another incident, the NHAI in its letter to the CS said the director of the EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) contractor firm was threatened by two persons in Ludhiana.

They also threatened to "burn the project camp and its staff alive," said the letter.

The EPC contractor had awarded some work to a firm of these two persons but later terminated the work because of their "unethical and unprofessional behaviour."

The NHAI in its letter to the CS stated, "This is submitted that necessary police protection is immediately required to be provided to the contractor, its staff and at the project camp to avoid any mishap and untoward incident."

"It is also requested to direct the concerned officers for the same and also direct the Police/ District Administration to lodge FIR against the guilty/miscreants and take action as per law," it said.

"It is highlighted that contractors in the state of Punjab have not been feeling safe due to these repeated incidents and the contractors may leave the NH projects unfinished due to continuing law and order problems in the State of Punjab," said the letter written by the NHAI's regional officer in Chandigarh.

The NHAI urged the state chief secretary to direct the concerned officers to take necessary action for the safety of NHAI officers and contractor's engineers and lodge FIR against the miscreants.

In its letter to the DGP, Punjab CS Verma said, "This is a very serious matter. You are requested to direct the Officers concerned to lodge FIR against the guilty/miscreants. You are also requested to direct the Officers concerned to take necessary action for the safety of NHAI Officers and for the personnel of the Contractors."
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Opposition members in Lok Sabha on Wednesday slammed the government for not taking up an amendment in the Finance Bill to withdraw the 18 per cent GST levy on medical and life insurance premiums.

Opposition MPs staged a walkout from Lok Sabha after an amendment moved by RSP member N K Premchandran seeking removal of 18 per cent GST on medical and life insurance premiums was not taken up by the House during the passage of the Finance Bill.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who piloted the Finance Bill, said any amendment in GST has to be approved by the GST council.

"Specific demand of the entire opposition is to withdraw the 18 per cent GST on life and health insurance schemes for which I had given an amendment. Normal procedure of the House is that the amendment is circulated only if it is admitted," Premchandran told reporters outside Parliament after the walked out by the opposition MPs.

"This was circulated yesterday itself. This gives a message that it has been accepted, or the recommendation from the President has been obtained. Normally if it is not accepted by the President it will not be circulated," he said.

Another point, he added, is the "government amendments were also submitted yesterday, as did I. All government amendments were accepted by the President, why is the private member amendment not being given attention from the President's office..." he said.

Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said perhaps the government did not want the INDIA bloc to get credit for it.

On the withdrawal of indexation benefits on long-term capital gains, he said it was anti-middle class and "rolled back" under pressure from the INDIA bloc.

He said there was another demand for scrapping 18 per cent GST on medical and life insurance premiums.

"Our ally RSP leader N K Premachandran had moved an amendment but it was not taken up, and the government said there are technical issues which is baseless. Somewhere government does not want INDIA alliance to get the credit," he said.

The Finance Bill was passed by Lok Sabha with 45 official amendments by voice vote.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) The PM KUSUM scheme, which aims to promote solar energy in agriculture in India, has achieved only 30 per cent of its targets, according to a new report.

Launched in 2019, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) scheme's goal is to help farmers switch to solar power, making farming more sustainable and reducing dependence on traditional energy sources.

The report by the think tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) outlines findings from surveys conducted in Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh and says the scheme has achieved only 30 per cent of its targets after six years, with the 2026 deadline fast approaching.

"As climate change continues to have increasingly widespread impacts, it is more critical than ever to invest in sustainable practices, especially in key sectors like agriculture," said Nivit Kumar Yadav, programme director for industrial pollution and renewable energy at CSE.

"In this context, schemes like PM KUSUM can significantly advance Indias climate action efforts, but only if implemented with care and precision," he said.

The scheme is divided into three parts: Component A - installing mini-grids on unused lands, Component B - replacing diesel water pumps with off-grid solar pumps and Component C - replacing electric water pumps with on-grid solar pumps and installing mini-grids for agricultural solarization.

The CSE said that progress has been slow, with most efforts focused on Component B. States like Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh are leading in implementation, while Components A and C have seen minimal progress.

Farmers who have switched to solar water pumps are happy as these allow daytime irrigation and eliminate inconvenient night-time schedules and power cuts.

For example, a farmer from Aterna village in Haryana praised the scheme for making farming activities easier and more efficient.

Farmers who switched from diesel to solar pumps save significantly, with some farmers in Haryana saving up to Rs 55,000 annually.

According to the CSE, one of the principal challenges the scheme faces is the availability of cheap electricity for farmers, which diminishes the incentive to shift from electric water pumps to solar water pumps.

Also, farmers are often forced to opt for pump sizes larger than needed for their land.

Debajit Palit, professor of energy at the NTPC School of Business in Noida, said the scheme needs to be tailored to meet farmers specific requirements to be financially viable.

If pump sizes are based on the land size and water requirements of different areas, rather than being kept uniform throughout the country, farmers could avoid the extra expenditure, he said.

Another challenge is the centralisation of the implementation model in some states.

In Punjab, the CSE report said, the scheme's implementation is overseen by the Punjab Renewable Energy Development Agency, in contrast to Rajasthan, where each component has a different implementing agency.

Yadav said that a decentralised model is important to truly realise the potential of the PM KUSUM scheme.

State implementing agencies with the necessary knowledge about each component should be responsible for the components within their expertise, he said.

The CSE suggested that farmers should be allowed to pay for solar pumps in instalments, which will make it financially more viable for them.

The central government should increase financial support to states, especially to cover the rising costs of solar modules post-Covid, it said.
Hyderabad, Aug 7 (PTI) Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy met World Bank President Ajay Banga in the US and held discussions, where the latter would partner with the state on several fronts and projects "to make a positive, ambitious and impactful outcome on the lives of over four crore people."

The potential areas for partnership being outlined through explorations and deliberations would include initiatives on skills development, urban rejuvenation and reimagination, Net Zero developments, citizens healthcare, diagnostics and electronic records, among others, an official release said on Wednesday.

CM Reddy is presently touring the US to attract investments.

In the over an hour-long meeting, between the World Bank head and the Chief Minister and his team, it was decided to set up cross-functional team to conceptualise viable projects in each of the areas in an accelerated mode, it said.

The World Bank backing would give a fillip to several of the key visions of CM Reddy, including the Musi River rejuvenation project, Skill University, Future City near Hyderabad and Citizen Healthcare, it said.

Meanwhile, the Telangana government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Corning Incorporated, a global leader in materials science, to collaborate on skilling and innovation initiatives.

The pact is aimed at advancing technological innovation in key industries and helping workforce in the state.

The MoU came following a meeting between the Corning leadership team led by Ronald Verkleeren, Senior Vice President, Emerging Innovations Group, and the state official team led by CM Reddy and Minister for Industries D Sridhar Babu, an official release said.

As part of the agreement, Corning and Telangana would collaborate on designing and implementing programmes focused on skilling local workforce in advanced manufacturing and chemical engineering technologies.

These initiatives aim to ensure that Telanganas talent pool remains competitive on a global scale, aligning with states vision of becoming a hub for cutting-edge research and development in pharmaceutical and chemical sectors, it said.

Meanwhile, Vivint Pharma, an injectables pharmaceutical company, announced its plan to establish a state-of-the-art injectables manufacturing facility in Genome Valley, Hyderabad.

The company would be investing Rs 400 crore in the new facility with a potential to employ 1,000 people, further solidifying Telanganas position as a global hub for life sciences, the government said.
TOKYO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) of Japan decided Wednesday to hold its leadership election on Sept. 23, as the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is expected to hold a leadership election around the same time, local media reported.

Campaigning for the CDP's leadership race is scheduled to begin on Sept. 7, with current leader Kenta Izumi eager to be reelected ahead of the upcoming election of the House of Representatives, the all-important lower chamber of Japan's parliament, which must be held by October 2025, Kyodo News reported.

If the CDP secures a victory in the lower house election by defeating the LDP, its chief could become Japan's prime minister, the report said.

The focus is on whether CDP lawmakers will support Izumi, who is expected to maintain cooperation with other opposition groups, including the Japanese Communist Party. To run in the race, the recommendations of 20 CDP lawmakers are needed, the report said. 
Bhopal, Aug 7 (PTI) Noted actor Raza Murad on Wednesday said a situation like that unfolding in neighbouring Bangladesh will never be seen in India as our armed forces are disciplined and steer clear of politics.

Congress leader Salman Khurshid kicked off a row a day ago with his statement that though "everything may look normal on the surface", what is happening in Bangladesh could happen in India too.

"Such a thing will not happen here. People have the right to express their opinion in democracy and he has expressed his views, but my firm opinion is that it won't happen in India and it should not take place," Murad told PTI here when asked about Khurshid's remarks.

"Our military has nothing to do with politics and it performs its duty with utmost responsibility. It never crosses the line..... it always comes forward to help people in natural calamities like floods, storms and earthquakes," the actor added.

Talking about the situation in Bangladesh, Murad said in his 73-year-long life he had never seen scenes like people entering the prime minister's residence and looting furniture.

"People may not agree with her (Sheikh Hasina) politically, but she is 75, and like a mother. They should not have disrespected her in such a manner," he said.

On objections about vulgarity' in the content of OTT platforms, the veteran actor said these shows contain foul language and depict women as characterless. <br>"This all disturbs the atmosphere. It is only an attempt to earn money. I want to ask those who are making such content, can you watch it with your family? The Lakshman Rekha' is being crossed again and again....Such content should be banned, and legal action must be taken," he said.

"Objectionable words are expunged even from our parliamentary proceedings.....OTT content is shown across the world, is it Indian culture? What impression are we giving about the country?" he said.

Asked about Madhya Pradesh emerging as a major film production center, Murad said producers must employ at least 20 percent local artists, especially when they are taking subsidies from the state government.

He also expressed dismay over the way wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris Olympics after being found overweight ahead of her women's 50 kg final, leaving her medal-less within hours of coming close to an unparalleled gold.

"Still, we are proud of her achievement and she is the biggest heroine for the country," he added.
Washington, Aug 7 (PTI) The United States has expressed deep concerns about the continued violence in Bangladesh including attacks on members of religious or political groups.

"We are deeply concerned about continued reports of violence in Bangladesh  including violence directed at members of religious or political groups. We are equally concerned about reports of violence against police and law enforcement," a State Department spokesperson told PTI on Tuesday.

"We repeat our call for de-escalation on all sides and a return to calm. This is not a time for retribution or revenge," the spokesperson said in response to a question.

"As a friend and partner to the Bangladeshi people, the United States will continue to support Bangladesh's democratic aspirations and promote respect for human rights for all," said the spokesperson.

Bangladesh is going through an unprecedented crisis with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was in power for 15 years, resigning and fleeing the country after a protest against a jobs quota scheme snowballed into a massive agitation against her and her government. More than 300 people have died during the past few tumultuous weeks.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said reports about such incidents including ransacking, and in some cases burning, of Hindu temples have come from across Bangladesh.

While the full extent to which religious minorities are being targeted in this greater unrest is not yet fully clear, the picture is deeply concerning, the HAF said in a statement.

"These attacks are heartbreaking, but unsurprising. It is well documented that prior to the toppling of Sheikh Hasina's government, Bangladesh's Hindu population has been targeted and harassed in sections of the country for many years now," HAF director of Policy Research Anita Joshi said.

"The Bangladesh military is reportedly forming an interim government, and so we urge local law enforcement and military leadership to ensure the safety of all Bangladeshs religious minorities, protecting their homes, business, and places of worship in this moment of turmoil," Joshi said.

"The HAF has also called on the US State Department to work with Bangladesh's military leaders and interim government to immediately protect religious minorities from violence as the country seeks to restore order," Joshi said.
Kathmandu, Aug 7 (PTI) Four Chinese tourists and a Nepali pilot were killed on Wednesday when a helicopter crashed in the mountains northwest region of Kathmandu.

The crash took place in the border area between Kathmandu and Nuwakot districts.

A Nuwakot district police official said all five persons, including the pilot, on board the helicopter belonging to private airline, Air Dynasty, were killed in the crash.

The 9N-AJD helicopter crashed at the Shivapuri National Park area in Nuwakot district, some 30 km North-West of Kathmandu at around 2 pm local time, he said.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the helicopter was heading towards Rasuwa's Syafrubesi area from Kathmandu with four Chinese passengers.

The chopper took off from Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport at 1.54 pm and lost contact with the tower just three minutes after take off, the CAAN said in a press release.

The chopper was piloted by captain Arun Malla. There were three male and one female Chinese nationals in the chopper.

The dead bodies were taken to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital at Maharajgunj in Kathmandu for postmortem, the airline's officials said.

The crash comes just two weeks after a Saurya Airlines plane crashed at the Tribhuvan International Airport on July 24. The crash claimed the lives of 18 people on board, with the captain being the sole survivor.

The latest incident raises serious concerns about air safety over the skies of the Himalayan nation, which has witnessed numerous air crashes in recent years.
San Francisco, Aug 7 (AP) A federal judge has branded Google as a ruthless monopolist bent on suffocating it competitors. But how do you go about creating alternatives to a search engine that's synonymous with internet exploration?

It's a process that may take years to unfold as Google appeals the landmark decision issued Monday by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta.

And with that kind of time frame looming, the forces of technological upheaval may make the exercise moot.

The rise of artificial intelligence may reshape the landscape more quickly and profoundly than any judge ever could. The way consumers navigate the internet is more likely to be affected by advances in AI products  such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's own Gemini  before a nearly 4-year-old case brought by the U.S. Justice Department is finally resolved.

Even so, Mehta's 277-page ruling Monday creates challenges for Google that company founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin probably didn't envision when they set out to revolutionize internet search while attending Stanford University as graduate students. They eventually dropped out to start a Silicon Valley company in 1998 that adopted Don't Be Evil as a motto that also was meant to serve as its corporate conscience.

Page and Brin, who remain the controlling shareholders of Google's corporate parent Alphabet Inc., also cast their cuddly startup as a crusader for technology that would be far better than the products coming out of Microsoft, the industry's reigning kingpin at the time. Microsoft's dominance of personal computer software and anticompetitive tactics during the 1990s spurred another Justice Department case that ended up hobbling Microsoft and helped make it easier for Google to build its lead in search and then expand into maps, cloud computing, email (Gmail), web browsers (Chrome) and video (YouTube).

Now, the script has been flipped, with Google facing potential legal constraints, while a resurgent Microsoft has been making early headway in AI with a major helping hand from its investment in OpenAI. In one of the most dramatic scenarios that most experts think is unlikely to happen, Google might be forced to break up its business similar to how AT&T  once known as Ma Bell  ended up spinning off its telephone subsidiaries into separate Baby Bells more than 40 years ago.

It will be left to Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who took over the company's leadership from Page in 2015, to minimize the distractions caused by the legal skirmishing still to come and remain focused on an industrywide pivot to AI technology that's expected to be as revolutionary as the mobile computing shift by Apple's introduction of the iPhone in 2007.

The debate about how Google should be overhauled will begin Sept. 6 with a hearing scheduled in Washington, D.C., before Mehta, who also presided over the 10-week trial last year that led to his antitrust decision.

Google also will be pursing an appeal, based on its long-held contention that it has done nothing wrong but build and maintain a search engine that has been far superior to anything else for more than 20 years. The Mountain View, California, company also maintains that competition is just a few clicks away, with consumers still free to go to other options, such as Microsoft's Bing, DuckDuckGo and, more recently, AI-powered alternatives such as Perplexity and ChatGPT.

Although Mehta praised the quality of Google's search engine in his ruling and acknowledged the company initially became the people's preferred choice in its early days, he concluded it resorted to unfair tactics to maintain its leadership during the past decade. Google did it, Mehta said, mainly by negotiating lucrative deals to cement a position as the default search engine on the iPhone and wide range of other devices, including PCs.

Those deals, which totaled $26 billion in 2021 alone, meant Google automatically processed search requests unless consumers took the time to manually go into their settings and choose another option  something that few do. The default option then helped Google collect valuable insights that enabled the company to improve its search engine in ways that rivals couldn't because they lacked the same data.

Default requests processed accounted for 60% of Google's search traffic in 2017, Mehta pointed out in his ruling, and that volume in turn created more opportunities to sell the ads that generate the majority of its parent company's $307 billion in annual revenue.

Mehta's focus on the default search deals in his ruling make it likely he may decide to ban them after the next trial phase is completed, according to antitrust experts. That could have implications for other companies besides Google, especially Apple, which pockets about $20 billion annually from an arrangement that is currently scheduled to continue through 2026, with options to extend the alliance into 2028.

Apple didn't respond to a request for comment about Mehta's decision, but its executives have depicted the decision to make Google the default search engine on the iPhone and other products as a convenience to its customers  most of whom prefer to use Google.

But an order preventing Apple from doing default search engine deals with Google could do more than just siphon away revenue. It might also require Apple to spend heavily to develop its own search technology  an endeavor that Google estimated would cost more than $30 billion as part of 2020 analysis that Mehta cited in his ruling. Then, it would cost Apple an additional $7 billion annually to sustain its own search engine, according to Google's analysis. (AP)



AMS

AMS
Washington, Aug 7 (AP) Abortion was slightly more common across the US in the first three months of this year than it was before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and cleared the way for states to implement bans, a report released on Wednesday found.

A major reason for the increase is that some Democratic-controlled states enacted laws to protect doctors who use telemedicine to see patients in places that have abortion bans, according to the quarterly #WeCount report for the Society of Family Planning, which supports abortion access.

The data comes ahead of November elections in which abortion-rights supporters hope the issue will drive voters to the polls. In some places, voters will have a chance to enshrine or reject state-level abortion protections.

Fallout from the Supreme Court's June 2022 ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organisation has remade the way abortion works across the country. The #WeCount data, which has been collected in a monthly survey since April 2022, shows how those providing and seeking abortion have adapted to changing laws.

The survey found that the number of abortions fell to nearly zero in states that ban abortion in all stages of pregnancy and declined by about half in places that ban it after six weeks of pregnancy, before many women know they are pregnant. Fourteen states are enforcing bans on abortion at all stages of pregnancy, with some exceptions, and four others bar it after about six weeks of pregnancy.

Numbers went up in places where abortion remains legal until further into pregnancy  and especially in states such as Illinois, Kansas and New Mexico, which border states with bans.

Abortion pills and telemedicine play a key role. In March, doctors in states with laws to protect medical providers used telemedicine to prescribe abortion pills to nearly 10,000 patients in states with bans or restrictions on abortion by telehealth  accounting for about 1 in 10 abortions in the U.S.

Laws to protect medical providers who use telemedicine to prescribe abortion pills started taking effect in some Democratic-led states last year.

It eases the burden on clinics, said Ushma Upadhyay, a University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine professor who co-leads #WeCount. So it creates more space for the people who are coming to clinics.

Abortion opponents say the fight over the abortion drug mifepristone isn't over after a narrow Supreme Court ruling that preserved access to it for now. But so far there have not been legal challenges to shield laws.

The latest edition of the survey covers the first three months of this year. January was the first time since the survey began that it's counted more than 100,000 abortions across the country in a single month.

Before the shield laws began kicking in and #WeCount started tallying them, people were still getting some pills in places with bans.

Upadhyay said that even before the fall of Roe, abortion demand was greater than access. She also said that even with the changing patterns, some women are continuing pregnancies they would have ended if they could have.

One of the states where abortions increased was Florida. That changed in April, when a ban after six weeks' gestation took effect. The data doesn't yet reflect that change.

The policy could change again through a November ballot measure that would make abortion legal until viability, generally considered to be around 23 or 24 weeks into pregnancy. It would take at least 60% approval to add that to the state constitution.

One vote against it will come from Mia Adkins, a 20-year-old senior at Florida International University. She said the overturning of Roe and changes in Florida's law have brought more attention to abortion and have strengthened her belief that there should be limits.

Instead of pushing for more abortion legal later in pregnancy, we should be pushing for laws that protect these pregnant parents and students and provide them with the support that they need, said Akins, a senior at Florida International University.

Florida is one of six states where abortion-related measures are already on the ballot. Determinations from elections officials about adding similar questions are pending in four more states. In one, Nebraska, there are duelling amendments: One to allow access until viability and one to keep the current policy, which bans most abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Abortion-rights supporters have prevailed in all seven abortion ballot questions in the US since 2022. That tracks with public opinion polling that has shown growing support for abortion rights, including a recent Associated Press-NORC poll that found 6 in 10 Americans think their state should allow someone to obtain a legal abortion if they don't want to be pregnant for any reason.

An amendment to protect access could be on the ballot in Arizona, a political battleground state where court cases have swung abortion policy  and access  since the Dobbs ruling.

The state Supreme Court ruled in April that Arizona should enforce an 1864 ban on abortions at all stages of pregnancy, only for lawmakers to repeal that law. The state's ban on abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy remains. The ballot measure would expand it to 24 weeks.

Natalie Harper, a 23-year-old independent who usually doesn't vote, said the potential of bringing back the Civil War-era ban absolutely impacts her decision to head to the polls and support the ballot measure this November. Seeing that as a possibility really made me realize that everyone's pro-choice voices need to be heard in hopes it never goes in that direction again, she said.

In Missouri, which has outlawed almost all abortions and where nearly none were reported in the new data, election officials could soon certify whether a proposed constitutional amendment guaranteeing abortion rights received enough petition signatures to qualify for the ballot in the reliably Republican state.

University of Missouri political scientist Peverill Squire said that if the measure is put before voters, it could draw out enough Democratic voters to help swing a few competitive legislative races.

They can seize on the personal freedom arguments the Republicans have generally owned over the recent elections, he said. (AP) PY

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Islamabad, Aug 7 (PTI) Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party on Wednesday challenged in the Supreme Court a bill restricting independent lawmakers from joining a party after a certain period.

The National Assembly on Tuesday passed the Elections (Second Amendment) Act, 2024, followed by its passage in the Senate, apparently to circumvent the apex court's July 12 verdict that declared the PTI a legitimate party eligible for the reserved seats.

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.

PTI chief Gohar Ali Khan filed a petition in the apex court with the request to declare the newly passed amendments as unconstitutional.

"The expression of the will of the people once made cannot be retrospectively subjected to restrictions that were non-existent at the time and that are in any case unconstitutional. Actions taken by the people and their chosen representatives in the exercise of their constitutional rights cannot be undone by parliament through legislation. Such legislation suffers from malice in law, according to the petition that marks the federal government and the Election Commission of Pakistan as respondents.

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.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had declared that 39 members who had shown affiliation with the PTI while filing nominations for elections were its members while another 41 lawmakers who were elected with the support of the PTI may join the party after filing an affidavit.

The Election Commission has already issued a notification recognising 39 lawmakers as members of the PTI, while the fate of 41 others is still pending.

After the apex court verdict, the PTI was expected to become the largest party in the parliament while the ruling coalition was deprived of its two-third majority as the party also got a share in the reserved seats.

The new law stops the 41 independent candidates from joining the PTI as they already joined the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) after the election.

After the elections, the PTI asked the independents supported by the party to join the SIC to get a share of 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 can join the PTI.

The proposed amendment also forbids allotting reserved seats to a party which did not submit the list of candidates for these seats before elections.

The judgment had opened doors for the PTI to apply for reserved seats even without submitting the list before the poll.

The bill would become an act of parliament after the presidents assent.
Islamabad, Aug 7 (PTI) Pakistan's former premier Imran Khan on Wednesday said he will apologise for last year's May 9 riots if any member of his party is found guilty of participating in the violence.

Speaking to journalists in Adiala Jail, 71-year-old founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party demanded the CCTV footage of last year's May 9 riots be made public to ascertain the real culprits behind the riots.

"If any PTI member is found guilty of participating in the events of May 9, I will apologise, expel them from the party, and ensure they face punishment," he said during an informal conversation.

Khan, however, in the same tone demanded that everyone be held accountable for violating the law.

"I was dragged by the rangers yet there seems to be no respect for Pakistan's most popular figure, both nationally and internationally. Dont I deserve an apology as well?" he said.

Khan said his party workers were subjected to injustice, with thousands of them imprisoned. Many were not allowed to contest elections and their party was banned.

"They are victims of the May 9 incident and are seeking justice, he said.

Khan said that he also approached the chief justice, highlighting human rights violations, and noted that their petition was not heard.

He reiterated that the PTI would not negotiate with the government as it came to power through rigging in the February 8 elections.

He demanded that apologies should also come from those who made mistakes.

The PTI founder also demanded putting his name along with those of Nawaz Sharif, Asif Ali Zardari and Shehbaz Sharif on the no-fly list, apparently to face accountability.

His statement came after military spokesman Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry on Monday reiterated the military was firm that those involved in the violent protests on May 9 apologise and face justice.

The May 9 riots left more than 100 persons dead. The violence started after the Pakistan Rangers arrested Khan inside the premises of Islamabad High Court in a corruption case.

The PTI supporters allegedly targeted civil and military installations, including the residence of the Pakistan Army's IV Corps Commander in Lahore, the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, across the country following Khan's arrest.
Sanaa (Yemen), Aug 7 (AP) A Yemeni official said on Wednesday that 30 people have been killed and hundreds displaced in flooding in the southern city of Hodeidah following several days of heavy rains.

Hodeidah Gov. Mugammad Qahim told Houthi rebel-controlled Masirah TV that the floods displaced people from 500 homes. Five people were missing, he said.

Hodeidah, the southwestern city of Taiz, and the northwestern city of Hajjah were all hit hard by floods this week during Yemen's ongoing seasonal rainfall that caused flooding that swept away poorly built homes.

Authorities have not announced a confirmed overall death toll, or given the overall number of people injured or missing.

Yemen's rainy season begins in late March, and rains intensify in July through mid-August.

The UN's humanitarian office in Yemen said on Wednesday afternoon that Friday floods in the Maqbnah district in Taiz city killed 15 people, cleared agricultural lands and damaged homes and infrastructure.

Further severe weather was expected to hit the western port city of Hodeidah later on Wednesday.

Some residents have reportedly been stranded inside their homes in al-Mansuriyah district since Tuesday night as roadways have been blocked.

Local authorities still haven't reached areas severely affected by the floods for two days, leaving some residents trapped inside their homes, according to witnesses who spoke with The Associated Press.

Mahdi al-Mashat, chairman of the Supreme Political Council, ordered local authorities to respond to damaged areas, according to Masirah TV, which reported that floods caused major damages to properties, lands, and roads in Hodeidah.

Witnesses described the scene in the Yemeni Tihamah coastal plain as horrifying. Mohamed Rassam said some livestock were found dead after drowning in the mud due to the floods. Food supplies and drinkable water were also lost.

The floods swept away everything, he said.

Some residents were stranded inside their homes in Tihamah, a region that is part of Hodeidah. Others were able to leave and headed to Hodeidah city.

Many of the houses in Tihamah, where malnutrition has been reported, are made of brick and materials that can be easily ruined by rain.

We have been left stranded under the rain after severe winds damaged our home, which is a hut where me and my seven children lived. Authorities never provided any assistance, said Ahmed Ayesh.

Meanwhile, Khaled Meswat said that people in the community only hear about humanitarian assistance and emergency services, but never actually receive any. He said at least three people were swept away by the floods, while elderly people died of hunger and cold.

I can say that hundreds of houses built from straw in Tihamah have been swept away by the floods over the past 24 hours, said Faree Hamdan. He added that cattle and livestock in those areas were also swept away.

The United Nations Population Fund-Yemen said this week on the social media platform X that the floods impacted more than 28,000 people living in four districts in Hajjah city.

Rapid response teams led by agency have been carrying out assessment and response operations and have recorded around 4,112 families who need emergency relief, according to the agency.

Yemen's ruinous civil war began in 2014 when the Houthis seized the capital of Sanaa and much of northern Yemen and forced the internationally recognised government into exile. A Saudi-led coalition including the United Arab Emirates intervened the next year to try to restore the government to power. (AP) PY

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Washington, Aug 6 (AP) Even before he was on the shortlist for vice president, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was working to portray Donald Trump and Republicans to the American public as just weird".

These are weird people on the other side. They want to take books away. They want to be in your exam room, Walz said in a TV interview last month.

The message started with news interviews and eventually spread like wildfire across social media with the help of young Americans. The simple terminology of labeling the other side as weird or odd is not revolutionary or sophisticated in American politics but represents a new framing for Democrats who have spent the last eight years trying to defeat Trump and Trumpism by personifying him as the greatest threat to democracy.

The opposite of normalising authoritarianism is to make it weird, to call it out and to sort of mock it, Jennifer Mercieca, a historian at Texas and University, who wrote a book on Trump's rhetoric, said. To say, Hey, that's a weird thing you're doing, calling your opposition enemies instead of saying that they're good people who have different policy preferences.'

Now the party is turning the page with a new generation of candidates trying to appeal not just to Americans' fears about what a second Trump presidency would mean, but to plainly label the policies and actions of the Republican party as abnormal. And Democrats see no more effective messenger to deliver this new attack than Walz, the 60-year-old Midwestern dad, who on Tuesday was chosen to become their vice presidential nominee.

Gov. Walz can do the job, and helps reinforce that we're team normal, freshman Democratic Rep. Greg Landsman of Ohio said in a statement Tuesday. "We're pragmatic, reliable and bipartisan."

Walz's ability to speak in layman's terms about policy and politics coupled with his knowledge of the internet zeitgeist has helped propel the little-known politician to the national stage and on the For You social media pages of millions of Gen Z voters whose support will be crucial for Democrats come November.

Labeled the cool dad online, news that Walz would be the Democratic running mate ignited a stream of online memes, including one with the caption, To the window to the Walz, a reference to the hit 2003 rap song Get Low by Lil Jon and the East Side Boyz. On TikTok, users created 60-second montages of Walz talking about the phenomenon of the new Charli XCX album Brat, which he says his young daughter helped explain to him, mixed with footage of him lambasting GOP vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance for his comments on childless cat ladies.

Go ahead and continue to denigrate people. Go ahead. My God, they went after cat people. Good luck with that, Walz says in a MSNBC clip that has more than 150,000 likes on TikTok. Turn on the internet. See what cat people do when you go after them.

But the same qualities that led Walz to the Democratic ticket are already being used against him by Republicans who have just in the last few hours labelled him as weird and radical".

Trump sent a fundraising email Tuesday calling Walz Dangerously Liberal and saying he would unleash HELL ON EARTH.

But Walz's legislative record on issues like protecting abortion rights, legalising recreational marijuana and restricting gun access have helped him gain popularity with young voters beyond his own solidly blue state to communities across the country.

Voters of Tomorrow, a Gen Z-led organisation that represents young political activists and voters, threw its full support behind Walz after weeks of campaigning on his behalf, saying that he has dedicated his life to educating and empowering young people as a teacher and public servant.

Governor Walz gets bonus points for articulating exactly how young Americans feel about Donald Trump and JD Vance: They are weird," Santiago Mayer, the group's executive director, said in a statement. Trump and Vance are weirdly fixated on taking away freedoms from Americans and weirdly obsessed with culture wars. (AP) PY

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Mumbai, Aug 7 (PTI) Immigration sleuths nabbed a 45-year-old man at Mumbai International Airport while trying to travel to Saudi Arabia on a forged passport, a police official said on Wednesday.

The accused, identified as Khurshid Alam Mohammad Rashid, originally from Deoria in Uttar Pradesh, was subsequently arrested by Mumbai Police.

Rashid reached the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to board a flight for Dammam in Saudi Arabia via Bahrain on Monday evening.

An immigration officer at the counter grew suspicious as Rashid looked older than the age mentioned in his passport which showed he was born in 1985.

Rashid admitted during questioning that he was born in 1979 but faked his age hoping to land a better job in Saudi Arabia, a police official said.

"Prima facie, Rashid was apprehensive of not landing a better job in Saudi Arabia due to his age and mentioned his birth year as 1985 on the forged passport prepared in Lucknow. He was arrested under relevant sections of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) for cheating and forgery, and further investigation is underway," the official added.
This photo taken on Aug. 5, 2024 shows copies of a report titled "Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization: Major Achievements and Global Contributions." The report on the achievements and global contributions of China's reform endeavors in the new era was unveiled at a forum held Tuesday in Beijing.

Jointly issued by the think tanks under the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Xinhua News Agency, the report systematically summarizes the major achievements, basic principles and global contributions of the CPC's efforts in deepening reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization in the new era. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- As China is advancing Chinese modernization through further comprehensively deepening reform, a more efficient and dynamic Chinese economy will become an even stronger driver of global economic growth, according to a think tank report.

The report, titled "Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization: Major Achievements and Global Contributions," was jointly released on Tuesday by the think tanks under the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Xinhua News Agency.

Through steady economic and social development, along with the continuous improvement of its national governance system and governance capacity, China has injected momentum into the global economy, shared its experience in global governance and offered input for the future of mankind, the report said.

Since China launched the initiative to deepen reform comprehensively, it has consistently ranked first in average contribution to global economic growth for several consecutive years, surpassing the combined contributions of the Group of Seven (G7) countries, according to the report.

The report noted that China is committed to optimizing the innovation environment, improving institutional mechanisms, and stimulating market vitality through comprehensive deepening reform.

It added that this approach channels various production resources into areas of new quality productive forces, providing a fresh engine for global economic growth.

Taking the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative as an example, the report underlined China's commitment to building a global development framework that is comprehensive and balanced, coordinated and inclusive, with win-win cooperation and common prosperity, and promoting inclusive economic globalization that is beneficial to all.

China has adhered to a vision of global governance featuring shared growth through discussion and collaboration, actively participating and playing a leading role in the reform and construction of the global governance system, it said.

The report listed some of the initiatives and proposals put forward by China in its efforts to improve global development governance, strengthen global security governance and advance global civilizational exchanges and mutual learning.

While comprehensively deepening reform, China remains committed to prioritizing ecology and green development and driving a comprehensive green transformation of economic and social development, the report said.

China's remarkable ecological and green development achievements have gained global recognition, injecting fresh impetus into the global ecological progress, it said.

The report stated that China has successfully forged a path of modernization distinct from that of the West.

It has advanced Chinese modernization characterized by a huge population, common prosperity for all, material and cultural-ethical advancement, harmony between humanity and nature, and peaceful development. The report noted that this highlights the unique features and advantages of Chinese modernization and presents a new vision for global modernization.

Emphasizing that Chinese modernization is the modernization of peaceful development, the report said China's development is a growing force for peace and an increasing stabilizing factor in the world.

In responding to the common problems faced by humankind, China has proposed joint efforts to build a human community with a shared future. This concept, the report said, sets a new paradigm of equality and coexistence and has expanded from a Chinese initiative to an international consensus.

China will embrace the world with greater openness and inclusiveness, and through positive interactions, work together with the international community to build a more stable, prosperous, and progressive China and world, it said. 

Full text: Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese ModernizationMajor Achievements and Global Contributions
Aizawl, Aug 7 (PTI) Restrictions were imposed near India's borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar in Mizoram's Lawngtlai district, officials said on Wednesday.

The restrictions were imposed in view of the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, they said.

Movement of people is strictly prohibited between 6 pm and 6 am within 3 km of the borders, they added.

"Any person violating the order will invite a legal punishment under section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023," said the order issued on Tuesday.

The order will remain in effect for two months from the date of issuance or until further order, it said.

Mizoram's three districts -- Lawngtlai, Mamit and Lunglei -- share a 318-km-long border with Bangladesh. Lawngtlai is the first district to have issued a prohibitory order in view of the unrest in Bangladesh.

A senior police officer said illegal immigration from the neighbouring country has not been reported so far.

The state police are working with the Border Security Force (BSF), which guards the India-Bangladesh border, to prevent any illegal immigration, he said.
Guwahati, Aug 1 (PTI) The Gauhati High Court on Wednesday said the time has come to deal with the problem of flooding in the city and the government is required to take steps to resolve this issue permanently.

Hearing a writ petition filed in the form of a public interest litigation by North East Eco Development Society on Guwahati's water logging issue, a division bench of Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi and Justice Suman Shyam asked the government to place a plan to mitigate the crisis.

The Court noted that Wednesday was not fixed to hear the PIL but on a mention made by Gauhati Bar Association President Kamal Nayan Choudhury on Tuesday about the problem on the previous day, this matter was directed to be placed before the Bench.

"Mr Choudhury has invited our attention to the flood situation the Guwahati city has witnessed on 05/08/2024. The newspapers have also extensively reported the situation and the trauma faced by the citizens of the Guwahati city," the court said.

Residents of Guwahati on Monday faced a horrendous situation following a spell of heavy rains that flooded almost all peripheral roads, leaving people stranded for seven-eight hours in their vehicles till midnight. Students, who had left schools in the afternoon, were in their buses till 11 pm.

"Taking into consideration the fact situation, we are of the view that now time has come to deal with the problem of waterlogging/flooding in the Guwahati city and the State is required to take steps for resolving this problem permanently," the court said.

It requested Advocate General Devajit Saikia to assist the Court on behalf of the government and Choudhury as amicus curiae.

"Hence, we deem it appropriate to grant some time to Mr Saikia to place on record the plan which is in existence and future comprehensive plan to deal with the menace of waterlogging and flooding in the Guwahati city by the next date of hearing," the court said.

It asked the Principal Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Affairs to file an affidavit.

Stating that the Assam government was "not serious" in solving perennial waterlogging problems in the state capital, the high court on June 26 had come down heavily for not responding to its repeated notice and slapped a fine of Rs 1,000 each to four departments concerned.

On Monday, Guwahati witnessed a heavy spell of rain for about two hours in the afternoon, but the horror of the flooding across areas started unfolding in the evening when people started leaving their offices.

The rainfall created havoc in the city, leading to knee-deep water on all major and minor roads along with dozens of residential areas. In some places, water levels touched the chest.
Ranchi, Aug 7 (PTI) The Jharkhand cabinet on Wednesday decided to widen the farm loan waiver scheme by increasing the limit of credit from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh, an official said.

The proposal was approved during a meeting of the cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Hemant Soren.

"The cabinet approved the proposal to increase the limit of farm loan waiver from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2 lakh. The cut-off date for this will be March 31, 2020," Cabinet Secretary Vandana Dadel said.

It will benefit around 1.91 lakh farmers, an Agriculture Department official said.

In 2021-22, the state government announced a waiver of crop loans up to Rs 50,000. The government has waived loans up to Rs 50,000 of more than 4.73 lakh farmers, and given over Rs 1,900 crore to banks, he said.

A total of 37 proposals were cleared by the cabinet.

Among them was the proposal to amend the 'Jharkhand Karyapalika Niyamawali 2000' to transfer all matters related to the central agencies to the Department of Cabinet Secretariat and Vigilance.

The cabinet also gave nod to the proposal of doubling the monthly honorarium of village heads of tribal villages.

Dadel said the honorarium of Manki-Mundas was increased to Rs 6,000 per month from Rs 3,000. The gram pradhans will receive Rs 4,000 per month instead of Rs 2,000, while the honorarium of Dakuas was increased to Rs 2,000 per month from Rs 1,000.

The cabinet also approved the proposal of slashing the fare of state-operated air ambulance service by up to 50 per cent.

The existing one-way fare from Ranchi to Delhi, which is Rs 5 lakh, has been reduced to Rs 3.10 lakh.



"The fare was slashed in view of benefiting people," Dadel said.
Patna, Aug 7 (PTI) A total of 17 people, including eight candidates, were arrested in connection with malpractices on the first day of the Bihar Police constable recruitment exam on Wednesday, an official statement said.

A statement issued by Bihar Police said, "A total of eight candidates were arrested from Patna (4), and two each from Buxar and Jamui districts for indulging in fraudulent practices during examination on Wednesday. Besides, two candidates were expelled from appearing in the exam in Bhagalpur due to certain discrepancies in their documents."

Of the four arrested in Patna, two each had similar names and the names of their fathers were also the same, it added.

Police are also trying to nab two more candidates who were involved in malpractices, it added.

The Central Selection Board of Constables (CSBC) is conducting the recruitment exam for the post of constable in Bihar Police, Bihar Special Armed Police, and other units.

As per the schedule, the exam for over 21,391 vacancies started from Wednesday and will continue till August 28. The exam, in a single shift, will be conducted on August 11, 18, 21, 25, and 28. A total of 17.87 lakh candidates are expected to appear in the exam.

Nine other non-candidates were also arrested, with seven in Khagaria and two in Buxar, for fraudulent activities during the examination.

"Police seized 71 fake question papers, 92 fake answer sheets, 145 admit cards and 45 mobile phones from their possession. They are being further examined by the police," the statement said.

The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar Police has also identified at least 15 telegram channels, three WhatsApp groups and eight UPI IDs that are being used by fraudsters to lure parents by promising them that their ward's marks would be increased, enabling them to clear the exam.



"There is information that in certain cases funds have also been transferred to the fraudsters... it is being verified. Besides, EOU officials are also collecting details about certain mobile numbers that are being used by the fraudsters," it added.
Patna, Aug 7 (PTI) The Bihar government has urged the Centre to open a branch office of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in Patna to boost the export of agricultural produce from the state.

Speaking to reporters here, state Agriculture Minister Mangal Pandey on Wednesday said, "There is a need to further improve the export of agricultural produce from the state, including those that are GI-tagged."

"The NDA government in the state has requested the Centre to open a branch office of APEDA in Patna for this purpose. Currently, Bihar coordinates with the APEDA office in Varanasi. If an APEDA branch office is opened in Patna, it will further boost the export of agricultural produce from Bihar," he asserted.

APEDA is the premier body for the export of fresh vegetables and fruits. It provides the crucial interface between farmers, storehouses, packers, exporters, surface transport, ports, Railways, Airways, and all others engaged in exports to the international market.

Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products originating from a specific geographical location with a distinct nature, quality and characteristics linked to that location. The GI-tagged agricultural produce from Bihar include Shahi Litchi, Bhagalpuri Zardalu mango, Katarni rice, Maricha rice and Magahi Paan (beetle leaf).



"Even after a deficit in rainfall in July, paddy sowing has been almost completed in a majority of the districts. The districts where paddy sowing is quite satisfactory include Katihar, Sharsha, Kishanganj and Araria," he said.

"The state government has decided to provide diesel subsidy to farmers of areas that have faced acute rainfall deficit. In the 2024-25 fiscal, a total of Rs 150 crore has been sanctioned by the government for the purpose," Pandey added.

The affected farmers will get a grant of Rs 75 per litre of diesel for irrigating paddy crops with the help of diesel pump sets, he added.

Besides, in an attempt to save the crops from 'Ghodparas', popularly known as Nilgai (blue bulls), and wild boars in certain parts of the state, the state government has decided to allow action, including culling of the animals with the help of 13 hired professional shooters of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, Pandey said.

The districts where ghodparas and wild boars are in large numbers are Vaishali, East Champaran, West Champaran, Begusarai, Muzaffarpur, Gaya, and Buxar.

"The decision to kill ghodparas and wild boars in the affected areas will be taken jointly by the officials of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Agriculture, Panchayati Raj and Police departments. The role of the mukhiya (village heads) is important in the entire process right from killing the animals to their burial," he said.

"According to a rough estimate, the total number of ghodparas in these districts is around 3 lakh, whereas the number of wild boars is around 67,255. These two animals move around in herds and destroy acres of crops in a day," he said, adding farmers have to guard their crops from these two animals in some parts of the state.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Opposition INDIA bloc MPs are likely to hold a meeting in the Central Hall of the Samvidhan Sadan on Friday, sources said.

This will be the first such meeting of the INDIA bloc in Parliament which will be attended by MPs from different parties that constitute the alliance.

The opposition MPs are likely to stage a protest in the Parliament complex over the price rise on Thursday.

The INDIA bloc, which has 243 MPs in the Lok Sabha against the 293 of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), 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 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 a voice vote, and the opposition did not press for voting.
Lucknow/Ayodhya (UP), Aug 7 (PTI) A delegation of Nishad community on Wednesday met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Ayodhya and expressed satisfaction with the action taken so far in the gangrape case of the 12-year-old girl in Ayodhya, an official statement said.

During the 15-minute meeting, the chief minister assured the community that the perpetrators of the heinous crime against the girl would receive the strictest possible punishment, with no leniency, the statement issued here said.

The delegation expressed their support for the legal action being taken against the accused SP leader Moid Khan, it said.

Those who met the chief minister include community representatives Mahant Ramsevak Das Nishad, Anju Nishad, Durga Prasad Nishad, Sandeep Nishad, Manjeet Nishad, Asharam Nishad, and Vishnu Nishad, it added.

After the meeting with the delegation in Ayodhya, the chief minister emphasised that the safety of the victim and her family is the government's top priority.

The state government is "committed to ensuring justice for the victim in every circumstance", he wrote on X.

"The safety of the girl and her family remains our highest priority. Our government stands with her family with utmost dedication and sensitivity. The strictest action will be taken against the culprits of this incident, which has brought shame to humanity."

UP Police on July 30 arrested Moid Khan, who ran a bakery in Ayodhya district's Bhadarsa Nagar, and his employee Raju Khan, in connection with the minor's rape.

Both accused allegedly raped the girl two months ago and also video recorded the act. The incident came to light after the girl was found to be pregnant during a medical check-up, police said.

During the recent Monsoon session of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Adityanath condemned the incident and promised justice in the matter and strict action against the guilty.

He had also criticised the Samajwadi Party for being lenient towards the accused. He had met the rape survivor's mother in Lucknow last week, assuring her of stringent action against those responsible.

Following the chief minister's instructions, a member of the State Child Protection Commission visited the girl and her family to offer support. An immediate financial aid of Rs 5 lakh was provided to assist the rape survivor's kin.

A delegation of BJP leaders had also met with the victim's family, assuring them of firm action against the culprits by the Yogi government.
Chandigarh, Aug 7 (PTI) The Election Commission (EC) will visit Haryana on August 12 and 13 to review preparations for the Assembly polls due later this year, state Chief Electoral Officer Pankaj Agarwal said on Wednesday.

Agarwal held a meeting with all deputy commissioner-cum-district election officers of the state through video-conferencing, according to an official release.

He said engineers from Bharat Electronics Limited are conducting the first-level checking of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in all 22 districts of the state.

All district election officers must ensure that representatives of recognised political parties in the state are present during the checking, he added.

Agarwal asked the district election officers to direct the block level officers (BLOs) and registration officers to ensure that no forms are pending with them.

The CEO also said 817 new polling booths have been set up for the Assembly election, taking the total number of polling booths in the state to 20,629.

He urged the district election officers to personally inspect the polling booths as well.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Opposition members in Rajya Sabha shouted slogans demanding justice for wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the Paris Olympics after being found overweight ahead of her 50kg final match, and walked out of the House after they were denied permission to speak on the issue.

Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar criticised the conduct of opposition members, including Leader of Opposition (LoP) Mallikarjun Kharge, accusing them of "questioning" the chair and "walking out on their constitutional duty".

During the discussion on Appropriation (No 2) Bill 2024 and Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation (No 3) Bill, 2024, the opposition members kept sloganeering demanding justice for Phogat but Dhankar said nothing would go on record.

Kharge said he wants to speak with the chair's permission on an issue to which Dhankar responded that he had declined the permission and the debate would continue.

Dhankar said that LoP wanted the chair to interrupt the debate without taking recourse to any rule and shared his message seeking permission to take the floor without spelling out the issue.

After the members walked out, Dhankar said their act was "indecorous, undignified, challenging the authority of chair".

"An LoP, an important fulcrum in Parliamentary democracy... so painful. I have no words to take exception to such kind of conduct," Dhankar said

He said the kind of sloganeering seen in the House is not resorted to even in the worst of the situation.

Dhankar said that he had sent a blank paper to the LoP to mention his subject on which he wanted to speak.

"Shri Pramod Tiwari is seated next to the LoP and is a deputy leader of the main opposition party. They ruled this country for quite long and should be fully in the know of rules of procedure, rules of conduct," he said.

Dhankar read out the note which mentioned the LoP's request to raise an emergent issue impacting countrymen and a short intervention time.

"Nothing is spelt out. This kind of approach is to take the platform only to earn brownie political points. This is a very important theatre of dialogue, debate and discussion. I take an exceptional stance towards a trend that is emerging to challenge the chair every time," he said.

Dhankar said the people of the country will be shocked at the conduct of the MPs sent to Rajya Sabha to show responsibility and respect for the constitution.

"What we saw was beyond anything. In challenging the authority of the chair, trying to make it free fall for everyone. For the Leader of Opposition to be doing so, it is painful," Dhankar said.

The Rajya Sabha Chairman said no institution or society will bear "unruly conduct".

"These are dangerous practices that threaten the very fundamentals of democracy. Trust me, if we don't search our soul, we do not counsel our friends, we will be doing the greatest disservice to democracy.

"If LoP can be the epicentre of it, what could be more painful than this? Whomsoever sits in the chair has to be respected," Dhankar said.

He said that all parties that have walked out of the House have done it without rationally examining the damage they have done to the House.

"To engage day in and day out to run down the authority of the chair, to take the chair light-heartedly. Through each of you, I wish to finally appeal to them, they must reflect, they must introspect, they must search their soul...," Dhankar said.

The Rajya Sabha chairman expressed "deep pain" over the conduct of the opposition members and said that those who walked out from the House had walked out of their constitutional duty.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) The government of India is responsible for defending Manipur and must take stern action against communal and divisive forces that have wreaked havoc in the state, Inner Manipur MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam said on Wednesday.

Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha, the Congress MP said divisive elements as well as foreign powers and illegal immigrants were disrupting peace efforts in the state that has been facing crisis for 14 months.

... peace efforts have been made and there was an agreement achieved by two communities in the district of Jiribam, mediated by the security forces. Unfortunately, they were subverted by communal, divisive and sectarian forces, Akoijam said.

He said the government of India has a historical, political, moral and legal responsibility to defend Manipur as an entity that existed before the commencement of this Constitution as stated in schedule one of the Constitution.

In the instrument of accession signed by the then maharaja of the state on August 11, 1947, the defence of the state was handed over to the government of India, and therefore the government of India must take stern action against these divisive forces aided by foreign elements, he said.

Akoijam said there is need to take necessary steps to delineate citizens from non-citizens.

I appeal to this House as well as the government of India to make sure that Article 19 works in the state of Manipur and people have the capacity to move freely on the highways as well as territories within the state. It should not be restricted because one belongs to one community or the other, the MP said.

Article 19 refers to the right to the freedom of expression, to assemble peaceably and without arms, to move freely throughout the territory of India and other rights.

The MP from Manipur also urged the government to ensure safety of the properties of displaced people.

Properties of the internally displaced people must be protected. There have been images of houses being blown up and villages being wiped out in order to subvert the peace process. Once you destroy the village you cant go back. The government of India must take immediate action to ensure properties of displaced people are protected in Manipur, he said.
ISLAMABAD, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani officials and experts in the capital city Quetta of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province, said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has a huge potential to promote growth in various sectors in the province.

Addressing a 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 officials on Tuesday called for enhanced cooperation and inclusive growth in the next phase of CPEC.

In her remarks, Meena Majeed Baloch, a member of the Balochistan provincial assembly, said that CPEC is a great hope for the youth of Balochistan, who will get employment and business opportunities through it.

She stated that to harness CPEC's potential, the provincial government has announced 30,000 vacancies to train youth in various skills, enabling them to participate in future CPEC projects.

"CPEC project holds great significance for both Balochistan and Pakistan. The development of Gwadar port, along with the donation of the New Gwadar International Airport by the government and people of China, will play a major role in transforming the future of Balochistan and uplifting its underprivileged population."

Calling CPEC a cornerstone initiative for regional cooperation and economic development, Vice Chancellor of Sardar Bahadur Khan Women's University Quetta, Sajida Noreen, emphasized that academia can play a significant role in ensuring the success of the second phase of CPEC in the province.

Noreen added that she would explore opportunities and mobilize the academic community to participate actively in the project.

Addressing the seminar, Aetzaz Ahmed Goraya, deputy inspector general of the counter-terrorism department in Balochistan, said that a stable and secure Balochistan is of utmost importance for the success of Pakistan and CPEC. In this regard, they are making the best of their efforts to control insurgency and ensure foolproof security for Chinese nationals.

"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," he added.

In his address, Irfan Ashraf, director general of the Centre for Development and Stability, a Quetta-based thinktank that organized the event, said that the projects in the second phase of CPEC, including green infrastructure, renewable energy, etc., will significantly contribute to the region's development and stability.

Launched in 2013, the CPEC, a flagship project of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, is a corridor linking Pakistan's Gwadar Port with Kashgar in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which highlights energy, transport and industrial cooperation in the first phase, and expands to the fields of agriculture and livelihood in the new phase. 
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Opposition Congress party on Wednesday raised in Rajya Sabha the issue of dropping of Preamble to the Constitution from certain NCERT textbooks saying this was an attempt to impose communal ideology on the country - a claim which Union Minister J P Nadda countered saying the government was committed to protecting the constitution.

Raising the issue, Leader of the Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said Preamble, which is the soul and foundation of the Indian Constitution, used to be published in NCERT textbooks.

The objectives stated by the Preamble are to secure justice, liberty, equality to all citizens and promote fraternity to maintain unity and integrity of the nation, he said and went on to read the debate in Constituent Assembly in November 1948, where it was argued that political democracy in the country should also be made a social democracy.

"Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy. What does social democracy mean? It means a way of life which recognizes liberty, equality and fraternity as the principles of life," he quoted from the debate.

Kharge said every citizen especially the future generation needs to be educated about foundational principles and values of Indian democracy and Constitution as well as the sacrifices made by freedom fighters such as Mahatma Gandhi, Pt Jawaharlal Nehru, B R Ambedkar, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

He then went on to make a statement on shifting of statues of Gandhi and Ambedkar in Parliament complex - which received objection from the treasury benches and chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar said Kharge was deviating from the subject.

"RSS and BJP are trying to impose their communal ideology on people by tampering with curriculum. And the step taken by NCERT is not right," he said amid protests from the ruling side.

At this point, Dhankhar ordered that nothing will go on record and he would "look into what has to be deleted... last four minutes to be deleted."

"You are digressing from the issue," he told Kharge.

Kharge demanded that the government give a clarification on the issue, present facts before the House and withdraw the move to drop Preamble from textbooks.

"Undoubtedly all of us are committed to the constitution and any perception to the contrary will hurt all of us," Dhankhar said.

Leader of the House and BJP president J P Nadda said though he has not seen either the NCERT textbook or the change but can with all authority state that there is no question of any needling of the Constitution.

"Word by word, letter by letter, this government under the dynamic leadership of (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi is committed (to the Constitution)," he said.

On Kharge quoting from Constituent Assembly debate, he said it was only under the Modi government that November 26 (when the debate took place) was declared Constitution Day. He went on to attack Congress for imposing Emergency in 1975 and dismissing more than 90 elected governments in states in violation of the Constitution.

On RSS, he said the Congress government tried to ban the organisation twice and jailed 1.25 lakh people for two years but "RSS emerged stronger because it is nationalist organisation and an organisation connected to the grassroot."

"Preamble has been protected and will be protected," he declared.
IDF: Changes in the Home Front Command Defensive Guidelines 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. The rest of the countrys guidelines remain unchanged. 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.

WATCH: IDFs 98th Division Conducts Targeted Raids Against Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon 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. 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. https://yeshivaworlds3.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/08103301/WhatsApp-Video-2024-10-08-at-10.30.15-AM.mp4 https://yeshivaworlds3.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/08103309/WhatsApp-Video-2024-10-08-at-10.30.00-AM.mp4 https://yeshivaworlds3.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/08103318/WhatsApp-Video-2024-10-08-at-10.29.49-AM.mp4

Hezbollah Fires Rockets Into Central Israel Interceptions seen over Central Israel after Hezbollah fired rockets. No reports of injuries. https://yeshivaworlds3.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07162808/WhatsApp-Video-2024-10-07-at-4.26.19-PM.mp4

Air France Extends Flight Suspensions to Tel Aviv and Beirut Due to Regional Security Concerns 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!

NOW: Hamas Protests At Brooklyn College Pro-Hamas protestors are at Brooklyn College, as thousands are expected to protest at multiple locations around NYC on Monday. https://yeshivaworlds3.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07142419/WhatsApp-Video-2024-10-07-at-2.23.01-PM.mp4

Home Front Command Eases Restrictions in Parts of Northern Israel, Allows Limited Educational Activities Following a situational assessment, it was determined that as of today (Monday) at 7:00PM, changes will be made to the Home Front Commands defensive guidelines. As part of the changes, it was decided that in the areas of the Lower Galilee, Southern Golan (in communities in the Emek HaYarden Regional Council) and Central Galilee (in some of the communities in the Lower Galilee Regional Council) the activity scale will be changed from Limited Activity to Partial Activity, meaning educational activities can be held in a place from which a standard protected space can be reached within the time available to reach shelter. The rest of the countrys guidelines remain unchanged.

FLASHBACK FEARS: Paragliders in Northern Israel Cause Brief Panic on October 7th Anniversary Thousands of Israelis in the north were briefly alarmed Monday afternoon when they spotted three paragliders flying around, triggering memories of the Hamas attacks exactly a year ago on October 7th. However, authorities confirmed the paragliders were civilians, and there was no connection to any terrorist activity. https://yeshivaworlds3.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/07113116/WhatsApp-Video-2024-10-07-at-11.29.00-AM.mp4
A shocking congressional report released on Monday revealed that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released at least 99 illegal immigrants on the terrorist watch list into the United States under the Biden-Harris administration. An additional 34 individuals on the watch list are currently in DHS custody but have not yet been removed from the country.

The report, issued by the House Judiciary Committee, found that Border Patrol agents encountered over 250 illegal immigrants on the terrorist watch list at the southern border between fiscal years 2021 and 2023. This includes individuals from countries with known terror presence, such as Afghanistan, Lebanon, Syria, and Tajikistan.

The report comes on the heels of a House resolution condemning Vice President Kamala Harris for her failure to secure the US southern border as border czar. Over 7.8 million migrants have crossed the border illegally under the Biden-Harris administration.

DHS officials have acknowledged that an ISIS-affiliated network smuggled over 400 subjects of concern from Eastern Europe and Central Asia into the US. Additionally, federal authorities recently apprehended eight Tajikistan nationals with ties to ISIS who had illegally crossed the southern border.

The report warns that the true number of potential terrorists who have entered the US may be much higher, citing nearly 2 million gotaways since the beginning of the Biden-Harris administration.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is claiming that Zionists are behind the civil unrest in Venezuela following the disputed July 28 elections, which he almost certainly lost. In a Saturday address, Maduro alleged that the extremist right which is claiming victory in the election was financed and supported by international Zionism.

All the communication power of Zionism, who controls all social networks, the satellites, and all the power behind this coup detat, Maduro said.

US Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism Deborah Lipstadt condemned Maduros allegations as absurd and antisemitic, stating, The Venezuelan people have gone to the streets to peacefully call for their votes to be counted We reject all forms of antisemitism, and the use of these types of age-old tropes fans the flames of Jew hatred in Latin America and throughout the world.

Protesters have taken to the streets to dispute Maduros claims of winning a third term, with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado calling for police and security forces to stand by the protesters, not oppress them. Meanwhile, Attorney-General Tarek Saab has opened a criminal investigation into opposition candidates Edmundo Gonzalez and Corina Machado for allegedly falsely claiming to have won the election and inciting disobedience.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
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 Chinas Shanxi Province early on Tuesday afternoon.

The official Xinhua News Agency said the rocket had reached its pre-programmed orbit without incident.

Chinas 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 alternative  or possible competitor  to the GPS system widely used for navigation that is mainly helmed by Chinas strategic rival, the United States.

(AP)
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.

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 gunmans 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 Irans 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.

(AP)
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 homelands 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 Chinas main intelligence agency, the Ministry of State Security, Wang lived a double life for over a decade. He held himself out as a critic of the Chinese government so that he could build rapport with people who actually opposed it, then betrayed their trust by telling Beijing what they said and planned, prosecutors said.

The indictment could have been the plot of a spy novel, but the evidence is shockingly real that the defendant was a secret agent for the Chinese government, Brooklyn-based U.S. attorney Breon Peace said in a statement after the verdict.

Wang had pleaded not guilty. His lawyers cast him as someone who was forthcoming with U.S. authorities about activities he saw as innocuous, and they disputed that his communications were truly under Chinese officials direction or control.

The jury felt they were and that was enough to convict him, even though there was no evidence that what he did caused any harm, was of any benefit to the Chinese government or that Professor Wang is anything other than a patriotic American who has devoted his life to fighting the authoritarian regime in China, Zachary Margulis-Ohnuma said after the verdict.

Wang, 75, was convicted of charges including conspiring to act as a foreign agent without notifying the attorney general. The charges carry the potential for up to 25 years in prison, though sentencing guidelines for any given case can vary depending on a defendants history and other factors.

Wangs sentencing is set for Jan. 9.

He is among dozens of people whom U.S. prosecutors have pursued to fight what Washington views as transnational repression, or deploying government operatives to harass, threaten and silence critics living abroad. The Chinese embassy in Washington has disputed that the country engages in the practice.

Four Chinese officials who were charged alongside Wang remain at large. Messages seeking comment on the case were sent Tuesday to the Chinese embassy and the countrys consulate in New York.

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 Chinese Communist Party leaders who were sympathetic to calls for reform in the 1980s. A message was sent to the foundation seeking comment on Wangs conviction.

Prosecutors say that underneath a veneer of advocating for change in China, Wang acted as a covert pipeline for information that Beijing wanted on Hong Kong democracy protestors, advocates for Taiwanese independence, Uyghur and Tibetan activists and others in the U.S. and elsewhere.

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 Beijings 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 U.S., 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 didnt provide anything really valuable, just information already in the public domain.

Wangs 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 latters house in Connecticut.

Did he seem a little lonely? Margulis-Ohnuma asked a bit later. The agent said he didnt recall.

Wang told agents his diaries were advertisements for the foundations 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 dont care, Igo recalled.

(AP)
Intense thunderstorms struck the New York City area on Tuesday afternoon, bringing heavy downpours and a risk of flooding that is expected to persist into the evening. Rainfall rates from the storm could exceed two inches per hour in some areas, with total accumulations of 2 to 4 inches common.

Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for the Bronx, Manhattan, and Westchester County in New York, as well as several counties in New Jersey, including Bergen, Essex, and Middlesex, lasting until 6 p.m. Flash flood warnings were also in place for parts of New Jersey, including Mercer and Monmouth counties, extending until 8:15 p.m.

The storms caused significant flight delays at LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark airports, with inbound flights to JFK and LaGuardia experiencing average delays of over four hours. Travelers are advised to check flight statuses before heading to the airport.

In addition to the flood risk, the storms could bring damaging winds capable of snapping tree limbs and causing power outages, with isolated hail also possible. The most severe weather is expected west of New York City, with heavy storms continuing through the evening and tapering off overnight. However, scattered showers are likely to linger into Wednesday and Thursday.

Further impactful weather is possible from Friday into Saturday as a new front may interact with the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby. Depending on Debbys path, the NYC area could experience significant tropical moisture over the weekend, with 2-5 inches of rain expected across the region over the next week, and isolated totals reaching up to 8 inches.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Dear Friends:

Tonight, Wednesday, 3 Menachem Av / August 7, there will be an important gathering in Ateres Chaya, 1415 54th Street in Brooklyn (Boro Park).

The asifa, which is being sponsored by Agudas Yisroels KnowUs division, will be focusing on the timeless (but also all too timely) theme of Dina Dmalchusa Dina. It will feature addresses by Harav Avrohom Schorr, shlita, Rav of Bais Medrash Nezer Gedalyahu; Harav Binyomin Eisenberger, shlita, Rav of Bais Medrash Heichal Hatfilla; as well as Rabbi Aaron Lipskar, Chief Executive Officer of the Aleph Institute; and renowned criminal defense lawyer Ben Brafman. I will be serving as the evenings chairman. We have called Mincha for 7:00, after which we will proceed with the program.

Introspection about how to better live our lives in consonance with Torah ideals is always timely. It is particularly timely during the days leading up to Tisha BAv, when we mourn the fact that we remain in Golus, and the reasons why.

And it is even more timely when our charedi world is under such intense hostile scrutiny, when the media and the criminal justice system have their spears out against our community. The time is ripe for us to take a good, hard look at our obligations to our fellows, to our society, to our government, and to rededicate ourselves to the ideal of creating kiddush Hashem rather than chv its opposite.

Tonights asifa is modeled upon similar Nine Days Vasisa Hayashar Vhatov gatherings a number of years ago. Agudas Yisroels KnowUs division was founded approximately two years ago to combat the negative stereotypes about Orthodox Jews in media outlets like The New York Times. The Times and others in positions of influence and power continue to probe for every shortcoming, actual or perceived, they can find in the Charedi world. This is why KnowUs decided to bring back the idea of an asifa during the Nine Days focusing on the urgent imperative of ehrlichkeit.

I dont think I can adequately convey how compelling this gathering should be to us all. But I am confident that you realize how vital it is that we hear words of mussar and chizuk, and that we learn to distinguish between conduct that conforms with dina dmalchusa and conduct that does not. I am also confident that you understand how important it is to demonstrate to the wider world the beauty of living a Torah lifestyle.

Tonights symposium and our attendance are an important part of that demonstration. I sincerely hope you are able to join us.

Byedidus,

Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel
JAKARTA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia will collaborate with South Korea to construct an immersed tunnel in its new capital city of Nusantara, according to the Public Works and Housing Ministry.

"We estimate the cost to complete the immersed tunnel to be around 682 million U.S. dollars," said Wida Nurfaida, the ministry's director of road construction.

Scheduled to begin construction in 2025, the tunnel will be part of the highway system in Nusantara, enabling users to cross Balikpapan Bay to reach the government buildings area.

Indonesian government's option for an underwater tunnel instead of a bridge is intended to preserve the forest and protect local flora and fauna habitats. 
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.

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.

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.

The NYPDs treatment of journalists has come under scrutiny in recent months as top police officials have stepped up their online attacks against reporters seen as critical of the department.

(AP)
Nassau County, a suburban county in New York, has passed a bill banning the wearing of masks at public protests, aiming to prevent pro-Palestinian demonstrators from hiding their identities. The Republican-controlled county legislature approved the bill on Monday, with all 12 Republicans voting in favor and 7 Democrats abstaining.

The bill, which makes wearing a facial covering to hide ones identity a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison and a $1,000 fine, is intended to prevent violence and antisemitism by protesters. However, civil rights advocates argue that it infringes on free speech rights.

Exemptions are made for health or medical reasons, as well as for religious and cultural purposes.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
On the background of senior defense officials involved in hostage negotiations constantly being quoted as blaming Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu for botching a deal and adding his own conditions, Channel 12 News revealed surprising statements by Maj. Gen. (res.) Nitzan Alon, the IDFs representative in the hostage deal negotiations.

In a meeting held this week with the hostages families, Alon, who in the past has repeatedly expressed opposition to Netanyahus approach to a deal, made it clear that Hamas is the one that is torpedoing a deal. Hamas has not yet accepted the outline and is demanding additional conditions, Alon said.

Netanyahu requested to clarify some of the sections of the outline, including the transition to the north [of Gaza], Alon added. He did not deviate from the outline presented on May 27 and his demands are legitimate. I dont necessarily agree with them but they are within the framework of the outline.

On Motzei Shabbos, the Prime Ministers Office issued a statement saying: Hamas continues to demand the end of the war, the release of a tiny number of hostages, the ability to flood Gaza with weapons, retake control of it, and repeat the horrors of October 7.

The Prime Minister is ready to go a long way to release the hostages while maintaining Israels security. The Prime Minister has not added anything to the May 27th outline and continues to adhere to the basic conditions for Israels security per that outline: maximizing the number of living hostages released in the first stage and leaving leverage for the release of the rest, control of the Philadelphi Corridor, and preventing the passage of terrorists and weapons to the north of the Gaza Strip.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Antisemitic incidents in the Czech Republic sharply increased last year, with their peak appearing in the final quarter of 2023 following the deadly Hamas attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, an assault that triggered the war in Gaza, the countrys Jewish community said Monday.

In its annual report, the Federation of the Jewish Communities said it registered 4,328 antisemitic incidents in 2023, up 90% from 2,277 in the previous year.

The report said that 1,800 incidents  or 41,59%, of the total  happened in the last three months of the year.

The Oct 7 was immediately followed by a global explosive wave of antisemitism, which also strongly hit the Czech Republic, the report said.

The bulk of the anti-Jewish hatred, 98%, was expressed online, most of them through social media, it said.

Those included the publication of false, dehumanizing, demonizing, vulgar and conspiracy theories and stereotypes as well as hatred aimed at the state of Israel, it added.

Despite the rise in antisemitic incidents, the report concluded the Czech Republic remains a safe country for Jews.

It said there was no physical attack registered for the second straight year. But 18 incidents involved antisemitic threats, harassment and verbal insults, more than double than the previous year. The rest of the incidents included demonizing the Jewish community with conspiracy theories and stereotyping, according to the report.

(AP)
A tumult took place in Israels Supreme Court on Wednesday morning during a hearing on the Nukhba terrorists prison conditions in the Sde Teiman detention center.

The hearing took place after the left-wing organization, the Association for Civil Rights in Israel (ACRI), filed a petition demanding that the center be closed due to alleged mistreatment of heinous terrorists.

Relatives of fallen IDF soldiers and of hostages in Gaza protested outside and inside the court, yelling at the judges: Shame, shame! and Death to terrorists!

We have children held hostage in Gaza! Who is discussing their conditions? Who is discussing Kfir Bibass conditions? This a country of Chelm.

Someone else yelled out: They burned people alive, they raped and murdered men and women  even animals dont do that.

Another protester said: Did you see the video where the terrorists were standing on the dead bodies? The Supreme Court should have been shut down yesterday.

The hearing was interrupted by the protesters but eventually resumed after the security guards removed them from the building.

Guarding the Soldiers, a protest group formed after the arrest of nine IDF soldiers for allegedly abusing a terrorist at Sde Teiman, stated: The hearing in the Supreme Court this morning is absurd and a gift to Sinwar and murderers. The fact that a hearing is being held on improved conditions for Nukhba terrorists who murdered, raped, and took our children captive is an indelible stain on the court and Israels justice system.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The Israeli military announced Wednesday that an airstrike destroyed a weapons manufacturing plant belonging to Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strips humanitarian zone yesterday. The plant was embedded within the zone, which is designated for humanitarian purposes.

According to the IDF, extensive measures were taken to minimize harm to civilians, including the use of aerial surveillance, precision munitions, and intelligence gathering. The strike was part of a broader operation, with dozens of additional airstrikes targeting buildings used by terrorist groups and operatives across Gaza.

In separate ground operations, troops from the 162nd Division engaged and killed several gunmen in Rafah, while also destroying terrorist sites. Reservists with the 252nd Division clashed with gunmen in the Netzarim Corridor, killing several and calling in airstrikes to support their operations.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich, who is a member of Israels Security Cabinet, said on Wednesday morning that the political echelon was exposed during the war to a detailed strategic plan by Iran for the destruction of Israel.

Speaking at a conference in Sderot, he said: Without elaborating, we were exposed to this plan during the war  Iran is striving to achieve a nuclear defense umbrella that will provide it immunity to carry out a conventional destruction plan of the state of Israel  a combination of massive fire with a physical ground occupation.

In other words, Iran wants to achieve nuclear power to ensure its survival before carrying out a conventional war against Israel without the risk of being attacked in kind. The war would involve the launching of tens of thousands of rockets, missiles, and drones from Iran and its proxies, followed by coordinated ground invasions from multiple fronts, including from Palestinian groups within Israel.

Smotrich said that Israel must neutralize Irans proxies. This war should end when Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israeli citizens for many, many years to come. The first step is to finish the work in Gaza and convey the message to everyone, we will finish the same work in the north  we must end the war when we have neutralized the proxies of Gaza and Hezbollah.

The Iranians are building on what they see as our internal social weakness. They are hugely mistaken. There is no major division today, only on the edges. Massive media coverage of all 15 old people who block highways  the absolute majority of Am Yisrael is united and loving.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




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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.
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.
GAZA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- For months, the six-member family of Palestinian man Emad Abu Hamad from Khan Younis city in the southern Gaza Strip has been reeling from their daily suffering caused by the ongoing war.

When Emad returned to his house, he was shocked that it was destroyed. He decided to build his tent upon the ruins amid a lack of basics like water, food and electricity. To get drinking water and food, the 32-year-old father and his kids have to wait in long queues for many hours every day.

"In the past, I used to buy food freely and buy desalinated water from the shops," he told Xinhua, "but now sometimes I am forced to get the salt water and to drink it, which negatively affects our health."

Every morning, people in the Gaza Strip queue for hours under the burning sun to fill bottles and jerrycans with drinking water, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said on social media platform X in July.

"Then many of them have to walk long distances carrying heavy weights in the summer heat. This exhausting routine repeats again and again in Gaza," UNRWA added.

Fresh water was already scarce in the besieged coastal enclave before the war, and the problem has been exacerbated by a hot and dry summer, the tightening of the blockade, and the severe damage to infrastructure caused by the war. The struggle to obtain clean drinking water tells the extent to which a war has destroyed the daily life in Gaza.

In the strip, about 67 percent of water and sanitation facilities and infrastructure have been destroyed or damaged due to conflict-related activities, UNRWA said in June.

The range of water availability and consumption in the Gaza Strip is between two and nine liters per capita per day. However, the minimum amount of water needed in an emergency is 15 liters per capita per day, according to the World Health Organization.

Water shortage has also led to many other difficulties. For example, mothers in Gaza do not have clean water to mix powdered infant formula and have to take rainwater or salty water from contaminated wells. Some children can only take baths in small tubs, with the water that has been used to wash dishes.

Health risks mounted as well. UNRWA said in May that overcrowded living conditions and limited access to clean water have heightened the risk of infectious diseases, and rising cases of acute hepatitis and various forms of diarrhea have been reported.

Evidence of poliovirus type 2 in sewage samples taken from the Gaza Strip was found in tests carried out in Israel, the Israeli Ministry of Health said in July. It has raised concerns about the virus's presence in this area.

Amjad al-Ghoul, whose home was destroyed in an Israeli operation, was trying to set up a temporary tent beside the Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza strip.

All the shelters are overcrowded with displaced people, and the situation there has become unimaginable, he said while trying to remove the wastewater surrounding his tent.

"What are the faults of children in all these? They survive the war, but they will die from diseases caused by environmental and health disasters," al-Ghoul said with distress. 
WPP has divested its majority stake in FGS Global to private equity firm KKR in a deal valuing the communications firm at 1.3billion.

The British ad group told investors on Wednesday it would offload its 50 per cent stake in FGS Global for 611million, or 557million after tax, in cash.

Proceeds from the deal, which is pending regulatory approval, will be used to trim debt, fund dividends and investment across WPP's advertising, media, market research and public relations arms.

It came as WPP, the owner of agencies Ogilvy and GroupM, posted a disappointing set of interim results and tempered its annual forecasts.

In charge: Mark Read is the chief executive of WPP

Chief executive Mark Read said the sale of WPP's FGS stake was an 'excellent outcome' three years after it merged its Finsbury, The Glover Park Group and Hering Schuppener to create the business.

He said: 'It allows us to strengthen our balance sheet and focus on our core create transformation offer.'

Philipp Freise, partner and co-head of European private equity at KKR, said: 'Our investment in FGS reflects our strong commitment to strategic partnerships, where we provide long-term capital and global resources to entrepreneurial teams and world-class businesses.'

In its latest interim results, WPP reported like-for-like revenue growth of 2.6 per cent or 0.1 per cent on a reported basis to 7.2billion.

The advertising giant boasted an operating profit of 423million in the first half, up from 306million in the same period last year.

WPP flagged a 2.5 per cent growth among its top ten clients and secured new business with businesses like Astrazeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Johnson & Johnson, and the government of Canada.

For the first half of the year, WPP's revenue less pass-through costs fell 1 per cent, in line with analysts expectations.

It saw larger drops in the second quarter, with a 5.3 per cent drop in the UK and a 24.2 per cent plunge in China.

However, the firm's North American arm returned to growth.

Amid an 'uncertain' macroeconomic environment, WPP tempered its full-year guidance.

It said: '2024 guidance updated: LFL revenue less pass-through costs of -1 per cent to 0 per cent (previously 0 per cent to 1 per cent), with improvement in headline operating profit margin of 20-40bps (excluding the impact of FX).'

The group maintained its interim dividend at 15p per share. As of 30 June, its adjusted net debt stood at 3.4billion, down 0.1billion year-on-year.

Fiona Orford-Williams, a director at Edison Group, said: 'On the trading front, WPP's first half results are mixed, with a notably better performance in the US and India offset by more difficult trading in the UK and China, where the macro backdrop is particularly onerous.

'There have been some sequential improvements in the second quarter, but not of sufficient scale to lift the full year outlook, where guidance is now for a dip in revenue less pass-through costs of up to 1 per cent, where previously the market was being pointed to growth of up to 1 per cent.

'There is no change to margin guidance, which is for a modest uplift on prior year.'

WPP shares fell 1.12 per cent or 8.00p to 709.00p on Wednesday morning, having fallen over 12 per cent in the last year.
MEXICO CITY, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- At least nine people were killed and 12 others injured in a road accident on Tuesday near the municipality of Guadalupe Victoria in the central Mexican state of Puebla, local authorities said.

According to a report from the General Coordination of Civil Protection of Puebla, the accident occurred when two vehicles collided head-on at kilometer 4 of the highway from San Luis Atexcac to Guadalupe Victoria.

The injured were taken to Hospital General Guadalupe Victoria for treatment.

One of the vans was carrying passengers, according to witnesses.

Puebla Governor Sergio Salomon expressed his condolences on his social networks to the bereaved families. 
Drivers take a rest beside their humanitarian aid trucks at the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing on Aug. 7, 2024. (Photo by Ali Moustafa/Xinhua)

RAFAH, Egypt, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Amidst the scorching summer heat, Egyptian driver Mohammed Abdel-Fattah waits anxiously to deliver his truck, loaded with medical and humanitarian aid, into the Gaza Strip through the Rafah crossing, which has been closed since Israel occupied its Palestinian side in early May.

"I arrived one week after the crossing was closed," Abdel-Fattah, the 50-year-old truck driver from Cairo, told Xinhua as he sat next to his truck near the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing.

On May 7, the Israeli army announced the imposition of "operational" control over the Palestinian side of the crossing, a main gateway for delivering humanitarian and relief assistance into the enclave.

"We sleep in our trucks and we suffer from the high summer temperatures, but we still hope to cross into Gaza to deliver the aid to its people," Abdel-Fattah said.

His truck carries mainly medical supplies and tents. However, many of his peers, transporting food, have seen their goods spoil in the heat.

"Many food truckloads got rotten as they were exposed to heat and sun," he said. "My heart is broken as food is getting rotten here while thousands of Palestinians behind these walls are starving."

Khaled Zayed, head of the Egyptian Red Crescent Branch in North Sinai, confirmed to Xinhua that the ongoing closure of the Rafah crossing caused severe damage to the aid piled up on the Egyptian side due to the high temperatures.

"Hundreds of trucks loaded with food, medical, and humanitarian supplies have been waiting at the Egyptian side of the crossing for more than two months now," Zayed lamented. "Large quantities of food aid expired too after waiting on the Egyptian side for months."

According to Zayed, more than 500 trucks are currently waiting at the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing, with large quantities of aid kept in warehouses in the nearby Egyptian city of Arish.

"The Egyptian Red Crescent has started recently to distribute large amounts of aid to Palestinians stranded in Egypt, as well as patients and injured Palestinians who are receiving treatment in hospitals in Egypt's North Sinai Province," Zayed told Xinhua.

The Egyptian Red Crescent has recently stopped receiving aid from various countries due to the closure of the Rafah crossing. Zayed said that many donor agencies have been notified by the Red Crescent to hold off sending aid temporarily until the crisis is resolved.

Amjad Shawwa, the director of the Palestinian Non-Governmental Organizations Network, said the number of trucks carrying aid to the Gaza Strip has dropped by 60 percent since Israel began its military operation in Rafah in April and occupied the Rafah crossing in May.

"Before the closure of the Rafah crossing, the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip was catastrophic, as only around 200 trucks crossed into Gaza for one day," Shawwa told Xinhua, adding that Israel is imposing more restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

"There is a rapid spread of famine, thirst, epidemics, and diseases, especially among children and women since the closure of the Rafah crossing," he bemoaned. 

Humanitarian aid trucks are seen at the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing on Aug. 7, 2024. (Photo by Ali Moustafa/Xinhua)
Social media companies cannot be allowed to act like the Wild West, the Taoiseach has said after threats against him and his family were posted online.

A threat of violence against Simon Harris as well as his wife and children reportedly remained on Instagram for two days after gardai asked for its removal.

Speaking on Wednesday, he said: Its totally unacceptable that any media platform  digital, online, print  would allow a threat towards anybody remain for a significant period of time.

He added: We cant have a situation where its seen as some kind of Wild West over there (on social media) that doesnt come into contact with the same laws and enforcement that (a newspaper) would  this is a form of media.

Mr Harris said Ireland would soon introduce new measures and financial penalties against social media companies in the range of tens of millions of euro, under an online safety code.

He said he was very proud of the work under way at media regulator Coimisiun na Mean, adding that Ireland was ahead of many, many other European countries.

He said binding measures could be put in place later this year that would hit these companies where it hurts if they fail to comply with the new rules.

Mr Harris said the codes would allow for financial penalties and also include measures to hold directors personally responsible.

He said: The era of self-regulation of these companies is well and truly over. This will be the year in which there will be binding codes, financial sanctions and personal liabilities on social media companies  and that day cant come quickly enough.

He added: If anybody in any social media company is dining out on or thinking that somehow or other Ireland wont be robust in relation to this, theyre about to find out how extraordinarily wrong they just are.

Mr Harris said he will shortly convene a meeting of stakeholders to see what more Ireland can do on regulating social media, including through the European Union.

However, he said that threats made online are already illegal and added that perpetrators would face the full rigours of the law.

Meanwhile, the owner of X, formerly Twitter, has been engaged in a spat with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer following a series of violent riots.

Asked specifically about Elon Musk wading into the debate around the violence, Mr Harris said he did not want to massage the ego of any social media entrepreneur.

Pressed on the matter, he added: Best of luck to him, you know, Elon Musk is a citizen of wherever and of the world  and thats fine.

My concern isnt Elon Musk or (Facebook and Meta founder) Mark Zuckerberg or whatever their name is. My concern is the protection, safety and wellbeing of people in this country.

Asked whether he believed there was a reason for increased violent behaviour and aggravated threats, the Taoiseach said: I dont believe that we should be looking for any kind of justification or logic behind anybody who threatens anybody elses life  its a crime, its illegal.

He added: What I will say, though, is that this country hasnt dramatically changed. We are a fundamentally good people. People right across Ireland are kind, theyre decent, we have a sort of politics that can be robust at times, but its generally respectful.

There is a small number of people who seek to spew hatred and there is a small number of people who use social media and online media as a spawning ground for incitement to hatred.

Mr Harris, whose family members have experienced masked individuals gathered outside their home, said: Some of the media and political discourse around this does need to be checked too by all of us as a collective because when (the media) decide, and when (we as politicians) decide that people turning up outside somebodys home wearing a balaclava is a protest, then I think weve lost all sense of what is and isnt acceptable.

And we run the risk of normalising things that should never, ever be normalised at all.

He added: What I have seen is a small number of bad actors who travel across the island, both parts of it now, seeking to whip up fear and frenzy and indeed, engage in behaviour that does put peoples lives and properties at risk.
A former musician has been jailed for five years for the rape of a woman in her home almost four years ago.

At the Central Criminal Court earlier this year, Colin 'Ollie' Murphy (50) was convicted of one count of rape on a date in September 2020 at a house in Dublin.

Murphy, of Wyattville Park, Loughlinstown, Co. Dublin, was a member of the band HamsandwicH for 15 years until 2018, the Central Criminal Court heard. He has more recently worked as a delivery driver.

The court heard the woman wished to retain her anonymity but did not object to Murphy being identified.

Murphy denied the allegations, telling gardai initially that the sexual encounter was consensual.

However, defence senior counsel Patrick Gageby told the court at an earlier hearing that Murphy accepted the verdict of the jury and wished to apologise to the woman.

This Wednesday, August 7, Mr Justice David Keane handed Murphy a seven-year sentence with the final two years suspended on strict conditions, including that he engage with relevant services.

Mr Justice Keane said the impact of the offending on the woman and the fact that the offence took place in her home were among the aggravating features of the case.

Reading her victim impact statement at an earlier hearing, the woman said parts of her life froze during the agonising three-and-a-half year- wait for the trial.

She described experiencing feelings of anxiety, guilt and dark thoughts, and said she grieves harshly for the relationships and family that she might have had.

She said Murphy followed her to her bedroom, a place he had never been and had not been invited, where he raped her.

She said her sense of personal safety in the happy house she shared with friends was destroyed and her last weeks there became tainted.

She said her performance at work suffered and by Christmas 2020, she was out of work and completely lost.

She described the trial as the most harrowing part of her life, as she had to present her most intimate life to a room of silent judging strangers before waiting days to see if she was believed.

She said she didn't want a trial, to see people hurt or for them to see their son or brother like that.

She said she couldn't imagine seeing her brother in the dock and that she didn't want anyone to go to prison, but it was the only justified outcome from the moment it had happened.

She said she carried misplaced guilt on her shoulders about the outcome of the trial.

I did nothing wrong but I still have to carry this every day, she said.

This Wednesday, Mr Justice David Keane said the victim impact statement was powerfully effective and described the wide range of damaging effects on the woman.

He noted that the woman had displayed remarkable empathy for Murphy's family in her statement, which he said is the hallmark of a remarkable person and wished her well for the future.

Mr Justice Keane set a headline sentence of eight years, which he reduced to seven years taking into account the mitigation and Murphy's personal circumstances.

The judge noted that Murphy accepted the jury's verdict and had apologised, but said his acknowledgement of guilt was offered very late in the process.

He cited a probation report which said Murphy initially deflected responsibility onto the victim, but since his conviction has expressed remorse and apologised.

Mr Justice Keane noted that the report said Murphy acknowledged that his drug use had escalated and that he was part of a peer group where the use of drugs and alcohol was normalised, but was now drug-free.

The judge said Murphy had no previous convictions and had been assessed at low risk of re-offending.

The sentence was backdated to March 7 last, when Murphy went into custody.

A local garda told Garrett McCormack BL, prosecuting, at an earlier hearing, that the woman went to bed around 4am after a party at her home.

She woke up to a man raping her. The woman didn't say or do anything as she was tired and intoxicated, but recognised the man as Murphy, who was an acquaintance of another person at the party.

They both fell asleep and when the woman woke around 10am, Murphy was still in the bed.

He left a few minutes later. The woman messaged some people, describing what had happened.

She broke down crying and after one of her housemates came into her room, she told him what had happened.

The woman then contacted Murphy and there was an exchange between them in which he acknowledged sex had occurred and apologised for not using a condom.

Gardai were contacted later that day and the victim was in a distressed state when they arrived. Her phone and items of clothing were seized and the scene examined.

Murphy's home was searched by gardai the following day, while his phone and items of clothing were seized.

He was arrested in November 2020, and made a prepared statement to gardai in which he said any sexual contact had been consensual. He said the woman was not asleep and had actively encouraged the sexual interaction. He said the apology in his messages was for not using a condom.

Some of the people who attended the party gave evidence during the trial that there was no romantic, physical or emotional connection between the victim and Murphy.

Murphy left a cannabis herb 'grinder' in the bed, which the woman recalled he'd had with him at the party. Another witness said Murphy was looking for this item when he left the house the next morning.

Murphy has no previous convictions and was remanded in custody following conviction.

A local garda agreed with Mr Gageby that his client was a figure in the Irish music industry and

was working in a retail shop in 2020.

Mr Gageby said his client wished to offer an apology to the woman. He outlined that Murphy has a long work history, particularly in the music sector, and more recently as a delivery driver.

He is divorced and has an adult daughter. He has been acting as a carer for his father.

His partner and a sister also gave character evidence on his behalf.

Mr Gageby noted Murphy was assessed at low risk of re-offending and was willing to engage with relevant services and programmes.
BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Zhang Xiulong, former vice chairman of the standing committee of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Regional People's Congress, has been indicted for suspected bribery, the Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) said in a statement on Wednesday.

Following the completion of investigations by the National Commission of Supervision, the people's procuratorate of Changde City in central China's Hunan Province filed Zhang's case with the city's intermediate people's court, according to the SPP statement.

Prosecutors accused Zhang of taking undue advantage of his various positions in Guangxi to seek profits for others, illegally accepting a particularly large sum of money and valuables in exchange, the statement said.

Prosecutors had informed the defendant of his legal rights, interrogated him and listened to the defense counsel's arguments, the statement added. 
A Limerick man convicted of the manslaughter of a PSNI officer who was apprehended by gardai earlier this year has consented to his extradition to Northern Ireland.

Christopher Shane Frane (36) was sentenced to a minimum of six years for the manslaughter of a police officer in 2013 after a car crash.

The sentencing judge also gave Frane, who is originally from west Limerick, an Indefinite Custodial Sentence that requires him to remain in prison until he can prove he is no longer a danger to the public.



Frane absconded from Northern Ireland on January 24 this year when on day-release and was arrested by gardai in February on foot of an extradition warrant.

The killer, who had argued that he was facing an "extreme and draconian" sentencing regime if he was sent back to prison in Northern Ireland, has now consented to his surrender, the High Court was told this Wednesday..



Frane had pleaded guilty to the 2013 manslaughter of Constable Philippa Reynolds. Ms Reynolds (27) was the back seat passenger in a police patrol car that was struck by a stolen Toyota Landcruiser driven by Frane in February 2013 in Derry. She was killed instantly.

READ ALSO: Have you seen Kelsey? Gardai search for missing 15-year-old girl in Westmeath

At the High Court this Wednesday, Frane took the stand to tell Mr Justice Paul Burns that he was now consenting to his surrender to Northern Ireland.



His barrister, Karen Quinlivan KC had previously argued, before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath in June, that to surrender her client would be a breach of his rights under the Constitution and Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

She said it had been accepted that Frane has shown genuine remorse and regret and has embraced opportunities for rehabilitation in prison.



However, before allowing Frane's release, the parole board in Northern Ireland must be satisfied that he no longer poses a risk to the community. This requirement, counsel said, sets an "almost impossible standard" for him to meet and despite his efforts he has not been cleared for release.

Ms Quinlivan pointed out that a judge of the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland has described Indefinite Custodial Sentences as "extreme and draconian" and urged lawmakers to reconsider them. She submitted it is a well-established principle that preventing risk to the public cannot be the only objective of sentencing.



A sentence requiring a person to prove they are no longer a risk to society would be unconstitutional in this jurisdiction, she said, and such a regime represents an egregious and fundamental defect in the sentencing regime in Northern Ireland.



A judgement had been due to be delivered in October but Frane will now be surrendered to authorities in Northern Ireland within 20 days.
The Taoiseach has criticised people who hijacked the Irish flag while standing alongside loyalist paramilitary actors in Belfast and shouting racist abuse.

Violent scenes erupted following an anti-immigration protest in Belfast on Saturday.

Protesters waving both the Union flag and the Irish tricolour took part in the protest at the front of Belfast City Hall.

A number of people also carried the Coolock Says No banner, which has been used at protests outside a former Crown Paints factory earmarked to house asylum seekers.

Speaking at Government Buildings on Wednesday, Simon Harris said that those who took part in the protest while holding the Irish flag and banner should leave our flag alone and leave the name Coolock alone.

Anybody who travels from really anywhere and thinks they should take the Irish flag with them and stand alongside potentially paramilitary actors in Northern Ireland, shouting racist abuse, threatening people, and indeed, being at the very least in proximity to buildings that were set on fire, is the exact opposite of what the definition of patriotism would be, Mr Harris said.

They are people who bring shame to their community. Theyre not, can I say this, reflective of the Coolock community, and how dare they hijack our flag and the name Coolock, when really what they are is people who are agitating and advocating racism, division, and we should call it out.

Let me just say this as well because Northern Ireland is a very special place, full of very many people who have committed themselves to peace and to inclusion.

Belfast is a very proud city that has worked so hard across the community to promote peace and inclusion. What I must say is, in the face of the thuggery that we saw from some, what we also saw was an incredible gathering of people to talk about welcome and inclusion and the true values of Belfast and of the island of Ireland as well.

What we also saw was, I think unity of purpose from across the political leadership in Northern Ireland.

I had a very good conversation with the First Minister (Michelle ONeill) over the weekend as well. I know my colleague, the Minister for Justice (Helen McEntee), spoke to the Northern Ireland Minister for Justice (Naomi Long) and that the level of collaboration and work that goes on between the two jurisdictions is as strong, if not stronger than it has ever been.

If you intend to travel from our jurisdiction to commit a crime in another jurisdiction, you too will meet the full rigours of the law. Leave our flag alone. Leave the name Coolock alone, and those racist, horrific scenes that weve seen in recent days should be called out for exactly what they are.
TAIPEI, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Taipei will launch 40 guided tours along 15 specially-designed routes to help visitors gain an in-depth understanding of the city, the city's cultural department announced Wednesday.

The event is to mark the 140th anniversary of the full establishment of the old walled city of Taipei.

Besides guided tours, there will also be two photography workshops, four lectures on the theme of Taipei's founding, and six traditional craft experience events. More than 70 cultural institutions across the city will be featured during the event, according to a press release.

It added that the tours are designed to give visitors a deeper understanding of the city's historical heritage.

The activities will run through the end of this year and registration for these activities will open on Aug. 16.

In 1876, the court of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) decided to establish a city seat in Taipei. The walled city of Taipei was fully completed in 1884 after two years of construction. 
DHAKA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will serve as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, local media reported early Wednesday.

The decision was taken at a meeting of President Mohammed Shahabuddin with chiefs of the three services and the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement to finalize the outline of the interim government on Tuesday night, Bangladesh's state-run news agency BSS reported.

The head of state gave consent to the proposal of the meeting, the president's Press Secretary Md. Joynal Abedin told the news agency.

Shahabuddin said other members of the interim government would be finalized in consultation with other political parties of the country.

According to the report, Shahabuddin said during the meeting that as Bangladesh is passing through a deep crisis and in order to resolve the problem, an interim government must be formed as soon as possible. He urged everyone to work together to resolve the crisis.

Earlier Tuesday, Shahabuddin dissolved the parliament, paving the way for the formation of an interim government following the fall of the government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Bangladesh is facing uncertainty after the resignation and fleeing of Hasina on Monday. 
MAPUTO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi said Wednesday that he will end his ten-year term as president with a sense of duty fulfilled.

"We fulfilled the mission entrusted to us by the people. We had achievements that constitute our legacy," he said while addressing the nation regarding the general state of affairs at the parliamentary headquarters in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.

In his final report since taking office in 2015, the president said the country has witnessed a significant expansion of national infrastructure and electrification efforts. The illiteracy rate has dropped, with a notable increase in the number of girls attending school.

The president said that almost 100 percent of teachers now receive specific psycho-pedagogical training, a significant improvement compared to 2019.

Nyusi also addressed the country's management of COVID-19, polio, conjunctivitis, and other diseases, which garnered international recognition for their effective handling. The rates of malnutrition among children and maternal and infant mortality have also decreased in the past three years.

"Electrification has reached 66.6 percent, up from 51 percent, even as the population grew from 20 million to over 30 million inhabitants over the last years," said Nyusi.

All district headquarters now have electricity, and the number of electricity customers has increased from just over 1 million to more than 3 million.

Nyusi also underscored the significance of mineral resource exploitation, mentioning that gas exports have started in the northern region.

While acknowledging unfinished tasks, the president cited ongoing terrorism in Cabo Delgado province and kidnappings, attributing these issues to a lack of collaboration.

A peace memorial to celebrate the achievement of national peace and reconciliation will be constructed in the Gorongosa Mountains in the central province of Sofala later this year, with contributions from the ruling party RENAMO, Nyusi said. "This memorial will inspire Mozambicans towards peace, help overcome divisions, and build a harmonious nation," said Nyusi, expressing hope that Gorongosa will cease to be a symbol of war.

On the economic front, the president said that the country regained the confidence of major financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, which had imposed financial sanctions on the country for years due to hidden debts.

We also negotiated debt forgiveness or suspension agreements with partners such as France and the IMF, Nyusi added.

Mozambique has once again benefited from considerable funds to boost economic growth and improve the country's infrastructure, he said.

"The country is growing economically, and the nation is resiliently moving towards sustainable development," said the president, thanking everyone for their contribution and the governance journey.

"I am proud of what we achieved together and confident that the legacy I leave will continue to guide Mozambique," said Nyusi. 
BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- China has always taken a positive and open attitude toward enhancing exchange and cooperation with the United Kingdom, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday.

Mao made the comment when asked to confirm whether British Foreign Secretary David Lammy was considering a visit to China.

Not long ago, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Lammy in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, Mao noted.

China and the U.K. are both permanent members of the UN Security Council and major global economies, she said, adding that increasingly stable, mutually beneficial bilateral ties between China and the U.K. serve the fundamental interests of both peoples, help both countries respond better to global challenges together, and contribute to world peace and global development.

China hopes to work with the U.K. to make new progress in bilateral relations based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation, and to bring improved benefits to the two countries and the world, the spokesperson said. 
Chinese FM holds phone talks with Jordanian counterpart on Mideast situation

Xinhua) 08:56, August 07, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore's maiden visit to China, scholars from around the country gathered at the Shanxi Merchant Culture Museum in Taiyuan, Shanxi province, for a series of cultural activities that kicked off on Saturday.

Tagore, also a renowned writer, philosopher and social activist, first visited China in 1924 at the invitation of Chinese scholars Liang Qichao and Cai Yuanpei. During his trip to China, Tagore visited several cities, including Taiyuan.

Liu Yuwei, director of the Taiyuan Cultural Relics Bureau, said the commemorative activities include an academic seminar on Tagore's works and life pursuits, poetry recitals of his literary works, and visits to the places where Tagore had been.

He said Tagore had extensive and in-depth exchanges with local intellectuals during his stay in Shanxi. He conveyed deep affection and friendship towards the Chinese people and recognized and appreciated the cultural ties between China and India.

"Through these activities, we hope to further strengthen mutual learning between Chinese and Indian civilizations, deepen academic exchanges, and enhance understanding and mutual trust," Liu said.

Zhang Wenqing, curator of the Shanxi Merchant Museum, said Tagore visited the museum  the former site of the Shanxi governor's mansion  100 years ago, making it the ideal spot to hold the commemorative event.

Munila Anwaier, a Peking University student who considers Tagore a spiritual mentor, recited his poems during the event.

"Standing on the same stage where Tagore once gave a speech to recite his poems, I feel extremely honored," Anwaier said.
TEHRAN, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Iran and Belarus on Wednesday emphasized the importance of collaborating to counter U.S. unilateralism, according to Iran's official news agency IRNA.

In a meeting in the Iranian capital Tehran, Chief Commander of the Iranian Army Abdolrahim Mousavi and visiting Commander of the Belarusian Air Force and Air Defense Andrey Lukyanovich voiced their willingness to expand bilateral cooperation, especially in the defense sector, the report said.

Mousavi said Iran and Belarus were faced with common threats and shared mutual interests, adding although both countries were under the U.S. and Western "cruel" sanctions, they were independent.

He noted that Belarus had a special strategic location and was a strong barrier to the expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), stressing its opposition to its expansion.

The Belarusian commander, for his part, said Belarus sought to expand and deepen military relations with Iran and use the country's "valuable" experiences, expressing his country's opposition to the U.S. unilateralism and NATO's expansion.

Also on Wednesday, Lukyanovich met with Commander of the Iranian Army's Air Force Hamid Vahedi and discussed bilateral military relations. 
And so, Kansas City achieved another milestone in Democracy and our not-so-humble blog community is tasked with interpreting the results and sifting through all of the partisan spin.



Accordingly . . .



CHECK OUR TKC PRIMARY WINNERS & LOSERS 2024!!!



Of course both parties are claiming overwhelming victories but we find room for skepticism of EVERYBODY in this quick collection that hopefully sparks more conversation.



Let's start on the bright side . . .



THE WINNERS

Kansas City "Kingmaker" Mayor Q



In all likelihood, the new prosecutor will be a political protege of Mayor Q and this demonstrates his ability to put candidates into office through his endorsement, connections and development. This is a skill that most Mayors haven't been able to develop and it could prove valuable for the 12th & Oak administration going forward.



GOP Party Establishment



Outsider "conservative" candidates in Missouri & Kansas didn't do very well. MAGA branding was far less effective in the primary and it seems that local imitations of "the Don" weren't appreciated despite so much trolling. Instead, mainstream GOP leaders leveraged their connections and cash and proved that party & organization outweighed online bullying.



Campaign Season Moves Social Media



Texting campaigns, spam and e-mail lists were crafted with far more care than old school mailers and old fashioned human contact.

The future of local politics is on your phone for those who can't figure out how to opt out of so many messages.

And now . . .



THE LOSERS

Trolling Didn't Work This Primary Season



Missouri State Senator Bil Eigel earned headline, nationwide rebuke and social media love but NONE OF THAT TRANSLATED INTO VOTES.

Sure, clowning with short Latinos is all fun and games but in the end it DOESN'T PROVE VERY EFFECTIVE at earning voter support.

In fairness . . . Even on the Democratic Party side . . . Rep. Patty Lewis earned a victory mostly by denouncing the allegedly negative campaigning of Pat Contreras.



Voters Didn't Endorse Already Overcrowded Jails



For better or worse . . . Even in strongly conservative districts . . . Kansas City metro voters don't see the connection to jail space and crime reduction.

The Platte County Jail decision impacts KCMO inasmuch as the lack of enthusiasm for building jails in the Northland is likely to further delay local efforts.



Local Leftists Stay Losing



The Squad lost another member as STL didn't stand up for Rep. Cori Bush. And, generally, it seems like the Democratic Party is attempting to "move to the middle" amid campaign 2024 and ongoing Uni-party support for war in Ukraine & Gaza.



But all of this is merely our hot take on primary night, here at www.TonysKansasCity.com . . .

NOW, FEEL FREE TO SHARE ALTERNATIVE KANSAS CITY PRIMARY POSTSCRIPT OPINIONS, INSIGHT & SNARK!!!



We look forward to pithy and insightful analysis from our blog community as the general election awaits.

Developing . . .


QUITO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Tuesday delivered 1,782 rifles to the national police to bolster its capacity to fight organized crime plaguing the South American country.

The weapons include 1,752 5.56 caliber rifles and 30 high-precision rifles.

At an official event in Duran in southwest Guayas province, Noboa ratified the government's support for the police force, which along with the armed forces stepped up anti-crime operations after the president in January declared the country in a state of "internal armed conflict" against criminal gangs classified as "terrorists."

"We have fought different criminal groups, arrested leaders of highly dangerous terrorist groups and seized drugs and weapons, and we remain firm in the fight against mafias. We are not going to stop until we achieve freedom for all of Ecuador," the president said. 
Today we're inspired by model, influencer, fashionista & biz lady hottie Kara as we share some of the stuff we're reading by way of pop culture, community news and top headlines.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

Show-Me Home Team Hope

Election results are 'positive moment' in hopes of keeping Chiefs in Missouri, mayor says "You're going to see not just the governor's office but the Missouri legislature supportive of retaining these two valuable assets here in the state of Missouri, particularly in Kansas City."

Rock Chalk Paper Chase

News of police raiding a Kansas newspaper unfolded like 'a novella.' The story keeps churning. * Kansas Reflector While former Police Chief Gideon Cody's grudge played a role in the Marion County Record raid, details of messy relationships in this small town paired with the inner-workings of a corrupt local government paint a picture that's more complicated.

Serving Kansas City

'Everybody eats with dignity together': Thelma's Kitchen reopens dining room Thelma's Kitchen, a pay-it-forward cafe at 31st and Troost, is ready to welcome in the community for the first time in years.

Beefing Up Delivery Game

Savory Sustenance: Carne Diem delivers meat to mouths of Kansas City carnivores Located in Briarcliff, Carne Diem Fine Meats & Pantry continues to deliver high-quality meats to Kansas Citians.

Local Buca di Beppo Endures

Country Club Plaza restaurant stays open despite chain's bankruptcy - Kansas City Business Journal The restaurant chain closed 12 restaurants throughout the U.S. before filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, but its County Club Plaza location still is operating.

Fashion Debut Earns Internets Love

Kara Del Toro In Stringy Bikini Celebrates '90 Degrees' In Malibu Bombshell Kara Del Toro is stunning in a white string bikini as she enjoys 90 degrees while relaxing on a Malibu beach.

Everybody Loves A Quitter

Biden's approval rating rises after he dropped out of 2024 race - Washington Examiner Joe Biden's approval rating rose after stepping down as the Democratic presidential nominee.

MAGA Argues Preview

Trump says he'll be debating Harris 'in the pretty near future' Former President Trump said Wednesday he'll be debating Vice President Harris in the near future, suggesting the two sides could reach an agreement after Trump backed out of a planned ABC News debate. "I hear she's sort of a nasty person, but not a good debater," Trump said on Fox News's "Fox and Friends.

Survey Seyz Veep In Lead

Harris takes 3-point lead over Trump as she gains on key issues: poll Vice President Kamala Harris leads Trump 51% to 49% in a new poll from NPR, PBS and Marist that was released on Wednesday.

Republican House Rules

Johnson bullish on keeping the House - and gavel - as Walz pick solidifies race NEW YORK - With Vice President Harris's selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) as her running mate, the 2024 presidential field is set. And Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is confident about the GOP's chances up and down the ballot. Johnson - speaking to The Hill in a wide-ranging interview from New York City on Tuesday...

MAGA Argues Economy

Trump trashes far-left VP pick Tim Walz, says Dem ticket will turn America 'communist immediately' Former President Donald Trump warned Wednesday that Vice President Kamala Harris and her VP pick, Tim Walz, will take the United States straight into communism if they win the 2024 election. "There...

Tech Socializing Democracy

Kamala Harris Campaign Trolls Trump Where It Hurts The Most - On His Own Turf Yes, the Harris campaign has a Truth Social account.

Vlad Confronts War Moves

Russian officials say they are fighting off a Ukrainian military incursion in Kursk Russian President Vladimir Putin described the incursion as a "large-scale provocation."

Middle-East Diplomacy Redux

Middle East crisis live: US warns Israel and Iran that conflict must not escalate Antony Blinken says US has been 'engaged in intense diplomacy' as the region braces for attacks from Iran and its allies

Brit Crack Down On Immigration Riots

Police warning over potential spreading disorder Some shops shut early and police patrols are stepped over fears of further anti-immigration protests.

Timing Is Everything

The Icelandic love secret: should we all try 'sex before coffee'? Sex is no big deal in a country that has a penis museum. But would this approach work for other, shyer, nations?

Pitching Solutions

How should the Royals handle this bullpen? Who is in the circle of trust?

Another Losing Streak Ahead?!?

Help For Families Arrives

Bottoms up! Happy Bottoms celebrates 15 years of diaper distribution Happy Bottoms regularly provides 75 diapers or 50 pairs of training pants to each of the more than 5,000 children they serve each month.

Toast To Kegger Success

Chiefs star Travis Kelce's Garage Beer will be on sale next week in Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce announced his new venture with the beer earlier this year and it soon will hit shelves in parts of the KC area.

Forecast For Now . . .

Comfortable morning and more summer-like in the afternoon Low chance of a few showers or a thunderstorm Thursday morning

Calvin Harris, Ellie Goulding - Free is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
Last night the Mayor didn't give up on Amendment 4 until early into the morning.

However . . . Going forward he promises more challenges regarding the po-po . . .



"I thank Missouri voters for their good judgment and look forward to presenting them with a future ballot issue that stands for local control in all of our communities."

More in another post . . .

"The state Supreme Court found that misleading ballot language in 2022 had a material impact on the election outcome. With the dramatic shift in vote totals, it was clear they were right. More work ahead."



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com screencap . . .

Developing . . .
In this quick collection we offer quick hit updates on contests we've been following but might not REALLY be worth a great deal of discussion.

However . . .

We'll double back if any of our readers have something worthwhile to add to the conversation.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

Roller Blader Winning



Crystal Quade captures Democratic nomination for Missouri governor * Missouri Independent Crystal Quade won the Democratic primary for governor Tuesday, defeating Mike Hamra by 19 percentage points when the race was called.

Vote Against Trans Community Sparked Progressive Resistance



Embattled KCK Democrat who delivered key GOP votes loses reelection in crowded primary After voting against his party, Marvin Robinson lost his primary to represent northeastern Kansas City, Kansas.

Rep. Nurse Patty Stays Winning

Patty Lewis wins hotly contested Democratic primary for Missouri State Senate District 7 Patty Lewis, an ICU nurse, healthcare executive, and the current Democratic State Representative for District 25, won the primary by a landslide against Pat Contreras.

Law Man Fends Off MAGA Lawyer



Bailey wins GOP primary for Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has won the Republican primary for Missouri Attorney General

No New Northland Space



Platte County voters reject 20-year, half-cent sales tax hike to fund jail expansion Two questions were on the ballot and both had to pass to move forward with the jail expansion plans.

GOP Move Up



Kansas' former attorney general wins the Republican nomination for an open congressional seat An open congressional seat in eastern Kansas inspired two political comeback attempts in the state's primary Tuesday, one from the last Democrat to hold it and the other from a former Republican attorney general who lost the 2022 governor's race.

Meth Town Supports Po-Po



Independence voters OK 1/4-cent sales tax for police wages Independence voters signed off on a 1/4-cent sales tax to fund raises for city police officers on Tuesday night.

Developing . . .
DCDE (Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy), one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, and Dubai World Trade Centre have concluded a series of 12 international roadshows to promote Expand North Star, one of worlds largest event for startups and investors.

Expand North Star, hosted in the global business and economic hub of Dubai, from October 13 to 16 will bring together founders, venture capitalists, ecosystem enablers, and tech leaders from around the world to secure business deals, attract investments, expand their networks, and share valuable knowledge.

This annual startup and investor connector event is held at the epicentre of digital innovation and transformation, attracting over 1,200 investors seeking to diversify their portfolios by scouting talent from more than 2,000 international startups.

The chamber met with 1,500 startups in 12 cities in Poland, India, Brazil, China, Morocco, France, Switzerland, the UK, and Netherlands. The international roadshows initiated collaborative partnerships with ecosystem partners including venture capital firms, incubators, accelerators, and government backed entities with the goal of attracting high-potential companies to Dubai, a statement said.

The event was organised by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by DCDE. Expand North Star connects the worlds most sought-after startups with innovators, investors, entrepreneurs, and the founders of global success stories to explore growth opportunities emerging in Dubai and catalyse the future of the digital economy, it said.

Each roadshow featured a presentation on business opportunities in Dubai and how DCDE can support startups in their expansion into Dubais market.

During the events, a pitch competition for startups took place and a winner from each city was selected to receive a fully sponsored visit and participation in Expand North Star. The four-day gathering plays a vital role in attracting and connecting the global tech community to Dubai by providing an effective platform for networking, innovation, and collaboration, it said.-Trade Arabia News Service
Aramco has signed a definitive agreement to acquire an additional stake of approximately 22.5 per cent in Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical (Petro Rabigh), the refining and petrochemical complex located on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabias west coast, from Sumitomo Chemical for $702 million.

Aramco and Tokyo-headquartered Sumitomo Chemical currently each own 37.5 per cent of shares in Petro Rabigh, which was listed on the Saudi Exchange in 2008.

Upon completion of the transaction, which is priced at SAR7 per share, Aramco will become Petro Rabighs largest shareholder with an equity stake of approximately 60 per cent, while Sumitomo Chemical will retain an equity stake of 15 per cent.

The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approvals and other third-party approvals, is part of a package of financial measures intended to reinforce Petro Rabighs financial position.

Under the terms of the share sale and purchase agreement, all proceeds received by Sumitomo Chemical from the sale will be injected into Petro Rabigh, through a mechanism to be agreed with Petro Rabigh.

Aramco will also provide additional funds to Petro Rabigh, via a mechanism also to be agreed, matching the $702 million from Sumitomo Chemical to improve Petro Rabighs financial position and support Petro Rabighs future strategy, bringing the aggregate injection amount to $1.4 billion.

In addition, Aramco and Sumitomo Chemical have agreed to a phased waiver of shareholder loans of $750 million each, which will result in a $1.5 billion direct reduction in Petro Rabighs liabilities.

These measures are expected to improve Petro Rabighs balance sheet and cash liquidity as part of a remedial plan that Aramco and Sumitomo Chemical intend to explore with Petro Rabigh, which also includes initiatives to upgrade the refinery with the aim of helping improve the profitability of the business.

The agreement also aligns with Aramcos downstream expansion and Sumitomo Chemicals move away from commodity chemicals toward specialty chemicals.

Hussain Al Qahtani, Aramco Senior Vice President of Fuels, said: Aramco continues to identify opportunities to strengthen its downstream value chain, secure placement of its upstream crude oil with affiliated refineries, and convert more of its hydrocarbons into high-value materials. By increasing our shareholding, we expect to achieve even closer integration with Petro Rabigh and facilitate its turnaround strategy. We look forward to building on our existing relationship with Petro Rabigh, in alignment with our strategic goals.

Seiji Takeuchi, Sumitomo Chemical Senior Managing Executive Officer, said: Amid the evolving business landscape in both the refining and petrochemical sectors, Aramco and Sumitomo Chemical have considered options to find an appropriate turnaround strategy for Petro Rabigh and identify an appropriate framework to facilitate Petro Rabighs future plans. We believe this transaction, which aligns with the strategic directions Aramco and Sumitomo Chemical are respectively pursuing, will significantly enhance Petro Rabighs financial position. --TradeArabia News Service
This photo taken on Aug. 8, 2024 shows a shop selling dried fruits and nuts in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. Afghanistan's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 2.7 percent year on year during the Persian calendar year of 1402 through March 19, data from the country's National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) showed on Wednesday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)

KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 2.7 percent year on year during the Persian calendar year of 1402 through March 19, data from the country's National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) showed on Wednesday.

Afghanistan's GDP reached 15.7 billion U.S. dollars during the cited period, NSIA acting deputy chief Esmatullah Hakimi told a government accountability program.

According to Hakimi, the annual per capita income in the central Asian country reached 493 U.S. dollars, increasing by 70 U.S. dollars from a year earlier. 

This photo taken on Aug. 8, 2024 shows a watermelon stall in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. Afghanistan's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 2.7 percent year on year during the Persian calendar year of 1402 through March 19, data from the country's National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) showed on Wednesday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)

A man sells tomatoes at a market in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, Aug. 8, 2024. Afghanistan's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 2.7 percent year on year during the Persian calendar year of 1402 through March 19, data from the country's National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) showed on Wednesday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)
CAIRO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty discussed on Wednesday with his Iranian and Cypriot counterparts means of containing the regional escalations, as parts of the Egyptian efforts to prevent the expansion of the conflicts.

Abdelatty called Iranian Caretaker Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani, encouraging all sides to commit to self-restraint to avoid a wider war, Egyptian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid said on the social media platform X.

In a separate phone call, Abdelatty discussed with Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos the recent regional developments, highlighting the importance of intensifying efforts to avoid growing violence and instability.

He reaffirmed Egypt's rejection of the Israeli policy of assassination and violation of regional countries' sovereignty.

Hailing Egypt's de-escalation effort at the humanitarian and political level for settling the recurrent crises in the Middle East, Kombos said "Egypt is a significant pillar for stability and security in the region."

Since the outbreak of the current Palestinian-Israeli conflict last October, Egypt, along with Qatar and the United States, has been mediating to end the prolonged crisis in Gaza. However, the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran has dealt a blow to the ceasefire talks. 
The Czech Republic is launching a second project to purchase ammunition for Ukraine called Initiative 2025, which will involve five arms companies.

According to Ukrinform, this was reported by Radio Prague International with reference to the words of Czech Defence Minister Jana Cernohova to Denik N.

"This is a natural extension of the existing mechanism. In addition, the sooner donors allocate funds, the sooner our companies will sign long-term contracts," Cernohova said.

Currently, the Czech Agency for Intergovernmental Cooperation under the Ministry of Defence is collecting information from arms companies on what they will be able to supply to Ukraine next year.

The Czech Republic will once again act as an intermediary between donors - European countries and five arms companies that have already supplied ammunition under the first Czech initiative. The companies will continue to supply next year, the article says.

According to Denik N, the second project will involve five companies: Czechoslovak Group, STV Group, Omnipol, Colt CZ Group SE, and the DSS arms company.

As Ukrinform reported, on 22 July, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said that another 100,000 rounds of ammunition would be delivered to Ukraine by the end of the summer as part of the Czech initiative.
Ukrainians in the U.S. state of Minnesota are convinced that its governor, Tim Walz, nominated by the Democrats for vice president, has a firm pro-Ukrainian stance.

Luda Anastazievsky, chair of the Ukrainian American Advocacy Committee of Minnesota who has lived in the state for more than 30 years, said this in a comment to Ukrinform.

Anastazievsky met Walz for the first time after the start of the full-scale war, when she and a group of other Ukrainian activists organized a large rally in the state capital of St. Paul in support of Ukraine. It was attended by the governor and his wife, Gwen Walz.

"He then spoke and said: 'You, Ukrainian communities, are woven into the fabric of this state. Without Ukrainian residents of Minnesota, there is no Minnesota, and today we are all Ukrainians'," the activist said.

Another meeting took place in March 2022. The Advocacy Committee worked with a number of organizations to draft legislation that would limit the state's cooperation with Russia, including banning state investment in that country.

"It was a great honor for me to testify in support of this bill in the state legislature," Anastazievsky said. "I come from Mariupol, so I told them what was really happening. The bill was unanimously approved by both the Senate and the House of Representatives of the state, and then our governor paid tribute to the Ukrainian community and held a solemn ceremony of signing the document that stopped state investments in businesses related to Russia and Belarus."

Walz issued a special order instructing more than 20 government agencies to terminate any contracts with Russian organizations and said: "Minnesota stands firmly with Ukraine and strongly condemns the actions of the Russian government. I call on other individuals, companies and organizations to stop supporting Russian organizations and companies."

Walz then raised the Ukrainian flag over his residence as a sign of support for Ukraine.

According to the activist, he is loved and respected in Minnesota.

She recalled that Walz had recently initiated the introduction of free school meals for all children in state schools, not just from poor families.

He is also a staunch supporter of workers' rights and signed a law on paid leave, which is not practiced in every state.

"And most importantly, as we have made sure from our meetings and conversations with him, he is a strong supporter of Ukraine," Anastazievsky added.

She stressed that the governor can find compromises and cooperate with both parties while remaining a Democrat.

"It seems to me that his strength is that he can find, as they say, a middle ground, an opportunity to negotiate with both sides," she said.

On Tuesday, August 6, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as a candidate for vice president.

Photo: Tim Walz / X
PHNOM PENH, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia attracted fixed-asset investment of 396 million U.S. dollars in July 2024, the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) said in a news release on Wednesday.

Cambodian government approved 44 investment projects last month, which could generate approximately 25,000 jobs, according to the CDC.

The new projects included a special economic zone, an aluminum processing factory, and a food processing plant, as well as garment, footwear and travel goods factories, among others, it added.

China remained the top investor in the kingdom last month.

"About 68 percent of the investment capital in July 2024 was from China, 14 percent was from domestic source, and the remaining was from the Cayman Islands, Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines," the CDC said.

According to the CDC, during the January-July period of 2024, Cambodian government approved 234 investment projects totally worth 3.64 billion dollars, creating some 193,570 jobs.

Cambodian Ministry of Commerce's Secretary of State and Spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement and the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA), together with Cambodia's new law on investment, are the key factors to attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to the Southeast Asian country.

"Both RCEP and CCFTA are magnets to attract foreign investors to Cambodia," he told Xinhua. "FDI, particularly from China, is essential to helping boost Cambodia's socioeconomic development and poverty reduction." 
TEGUCIGALPA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Looking back at history, the United States bears an undeniable responsibility for the long-standing poverty in countries like Honduras. Honduras was once referred to as the "banana republic," which served as an "oasis" for unchecked American capital and a "cage" where local impoverished workers were trapped.

From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, with multiple armed interventions and instigated coups, American capital gradually gained control over the major economic sectors in Honduras. U.S. companies like Cuyamel Fruit Company occupied vast lands in the northern part of Honduras, constructing large-scale banana plantations. They also controlled vital economic sectors such as transportation, electricity and manufacturing.

By 1913, over 90 percent of Honduras' foreign trade was monopolized by the United States. Under the monopoly control of American multinational corporations, Honduras developed a highly concentrated economic structure centered around banana production, and became heavily reliant on imports for essential goods like food, resulting in a vulnerable economy.

"Our people's anti-imperialist struggle is historic and has been united with labor movements as well," former President Manuel Zelaya, also a presidential advisor, told Xinhua. "The struggle is where what we have today in Honduras comes from."

However, for the people of Honduras, the injustices have not come to an end.

"Americans enjoy privileges in our country, while we are treated like dogs in the United States. It is a blatant injustice," Juan Manuel Guerra said, his voice trembling as tears welled up in his eyes. Before being recently deported by U.S. authorities, the 57-year-old Honduran had lived in the United States for five years.

During their stay in immigration detention centers in the United States, the majority of immigrants experience inhumane treatment. "I felt like I was being kidnapped. I stayed there for 17 days, and my family had no idea about my situation. They (the U.S. authorities) didn't allow me to make phone calls, and I was completely cut off from the outside world. I slept on the floor every day until I was released," said 25-year-old Bernard from Honduras, who would not give his last name.

"Poverty, illness, weakness, exploitation ... These are what the U.S. companies have left behind. On the contrary, they have taken wealth from here. Honduras is the fifth-richest country in Latin America in terms of resources, but it is now the second-poorest country in Latin America," said Estevan Elvir, now 91 years old, who once worked on banana plantations in the Sula Valley in north Honduras.

On June 28, 2009, a military coup took place in Honduras, forcing then-President Zelaya to step down. For nearly half a year afterward, the political situation in Honduras remained turbulent. Reports suggested that the United States was involved in the coup, after which the Honduran people who had resisted faced repression and displacement. Violence and poverty compelled some to seek refuge in the United States.

Zelaya said that many of the 20th-century political coups in Latin America and the Caribbean were related to the interests of American multinational corporations.

"I once asked a U.S. senior official if the United States had a manual for instigating coups. He told me there wasn't just one manual, but four manuals for instigating coups, and one is currently being prepared," Zelaya said. 
SANAA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The U.S.-British coalition carried out two airstrikes on Yemen's southwestern province of Taiz late on Tuesday, Houthi-run al-Masirah TV reported.

The coalition has yet to confirm the attacks, and there were no immediate reports of casualties.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command said on Tuesday it had destroyed a Houthi drone and two anti-ship ballistic missiles launched from Yemen over the Red Sea in the past 24 hours.

The Houthis have targeted ships in the Red Sea since last November in a show of solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The U.S.-British naval coalition has responded with airstrikes and missile attacks against Houthi targets since January. 
Five Columbia University students have filed a class-action lawsuit against the organizers of an anti-Israel encampment on campus earlier this year. The students allege harassment and bullying, claiming the protests, which involved chants supporting Hamas and threatening Jewish students, forced the university to move classes online and cancel graduation.

The lawsuit, filed July 26, names several defendants, including Democratic U.S. Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jamaal Bowman and Ilhan Omar, accusing them of inciting and encouraging the protests. Columbia University is not a defendant in the suit, according to court documents obtained by the New York Post.

Instead, the case targets student groups like Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine and faculty organizations that allegedly defended the protesters. The lawsuit also names various external organizations and activists believed to have supported the encampments.

The protests, which occurred in April, involved chants such as "Death to Jews" and "Hamas we love you," according to the lawsuit.

Demonstrators are accused of threatening Jewish students, blocking access to campus facilities and creating a hostile environment. The plaintiffs, two of which are Jewish, argue that these actions led to the university's decision to shut down in-person classes and restrict access to campus. The lawsuit does not specify the exact damages sought, but organizers told Fox News that they are seeking $30 million in compensation.

"This case is brought on behalf of the students who were forced to pay that high price by the tortious acts of on-campus students and faculty and their off-campus allies who conspired to organize and continue the two-week encampment. That encampment, and the safety threat that it created, forced Columbia to move classes online, restrict access to campus immediately before finals, and ultimately cancel commencement," the suit states.

The university has yet to comment on the lawsuit.
A huge crowd has gathered outside of Temple University's arena in Philadelphia where the first joint rally for Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, will take place.

Videos and images uploaded to X show thousands of people lined up for a chance to see the two, despite rainy weather conditions.

One Redditor who was in line posted a photo claiming that the line was "at least 6 blocks long."

A massive crowd outside Temple Universitys arena in Philadelphia waiting to get into the Harris-Walz rally that is set to begin in three hours. pic.twitter.com/lIBlUp3xh5  Joey Garrison (@joeygarrison) August 6, 2024

Look at the line already in Philadelphia!



The line to get into the first Harris/Walz rally stretches more than six city blocks.



We are fired up for #HarrisWaltz2024

pic.twitter.com/ciPJD9fk2C  Skyleigh Heinen-Uhrich (@Sky_Lee_1) August 6, 2024

Harris announced Walz as her pick Tuesday morning after weeks of deliberating between serveral democratic candidates, including Arizona Governor Mark Kelly and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro.

The campaign is distributing attendees of the Philly Harris-Walz rally light up bracelets, like youd find at a concert. Theyre flashing red, white, and blue as the arena fills up. pic.twitter.com/fr6vxhvNOs  Dylan Wells (@dylanewells) August 6, 2024

Philadelphia



Heres a timelapse of what is by far one of the longest lines Ive seen this election cycle.



Thousands waiting, in the rain, to enter the first Harris-Walz rally. Good chance attendance here will eclipse the 10k that turned out in Atlanta for Harris last week. pic.twitter.com/yf7xtXGcxl  Nnamdi (@NnamEgwuon) August 6, 2024

Republicans were quick to begin attacking the Minnesota Governor on Tuesday, launching attack posts targeting Walz's progressive background in the North Star state.

Just last year, Governor Walz signed a bill that allowed ILLEGAL ALIENS to get drivers licenses.  Rep. Jim Jordan (@Jim_Jordan) August 6, 2024

Harris appeases anti-Jewish wing of her party rejects Shapiro and picks Walz who helped her get the 2020 violent rioters out of jail in Minnesota. Doubling down with an Appeasement Ticket, foreign and domestic, will just encourage more attacks by Iran and proxies on Israel and  Rudy W. Giuliani (@RudyGiuliani) August 6, 2024

Harris and Walz are expected to take the stage at Temple University on Tuesday evening.
Two college students from Oklahoma are back in the U.S. after falling seriously ill while vacationing in Mexico last week. Their families, who suspect they were drugged, paid nearly $60,000 to get them to safety.

The incident began when the two young women, Kaylie Pitzer and Zara Hull, along with friends, landed in Cancun on Thursday, according to News 9. After enjoying their first day at the beach, they went to their resort's pool the next day, where they had drinks and later felt unwell.

"The last thing they remember is they had asked for a glass of water," Stephanie Snider, whose son's girlfriend was among those affected, told KOCO News 5. The girls experienced severe symptoms, including convulsions, and Hull rushed to a local hospital.

The next morning, Pitzer recounted, "It hurt to open my eyes, I was very nauseous, I couldn't move."

Hull was rushed to a local hospital after experiencing convulsions and was later intubated.

"Once she was there the hospital demanded $10K just to look at her to help her and start treating her. The money was sent. By the next morning we were told more money was needed to continue treatment," Snider wrote in a social media post.

After several days with no improvement, the U.S. Embassy advised the family to medevac Zara to Dallas. The evacuation and medical treatment in the U.S. cost around $60,000, with $28,000 covered by a family friend.

"We have spent over $50,000 in desperate need to get her back," Snider said.

The families are still seeking answers, with the girls' doctors suspecting their drinks were spiked with synthetic fentanyl. They say doctors have conducted multiple tests but have not received the toxicology report from Mexico, which was supposedly performed.

"We have come to the realization that we probably aren't going to get any answers. We're just dealing with what we have now," Snider said.

Pitzer, who landed in Dallas on Monday, reunited with Hull at the hospital.

"It's so scary because, there's times, I am like am I going to make it out of this?" Hull said.

"This could happen to anyone," Pitzer said.

The families have set up a GoFundMe for anyone who wishes to help with medical costs
Two men have been charged with second-degree manslaughter following the death of Jonathan Rodriguez, a 21-year-old student at The Evergreen State College.

Rodriguez died from carbon monoxide poisoning on Dec. 11, caused by a poorly installed tankless water heater in his on-campus apartment, according to court records.

Frank McCutcheon, 53, and Brett McCutcheon, 32, who were employed by Olympia Sheet Metal, are accused of causing Rodriguez's death by incorrectly installing the water heater at his on-campus apartment a week earlier. Investigators found that the unit lacked proper ventilation, causing dangerous levels of carbon monoxide to build up.

"That deficient installation caused the death of Jonathan Rodriguez by introducing into the residence levels of carbon monoxide over 20 times the acceptable limit," Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Filak wrote in a probate cause statement.

Two other students in the building, as well as a responding Evergreen police officer, were also treated for carbon monoxide poisoning at the time.

A March report by Washington State Patrol identified further issues that contributed to Rodriguez's death. The report noted that the carbon monoxide detectors, which activated on Dec. 11, were incorrectly treated as faulty rather than a serious warning, and were silenced by Evergreen staff. Additionally, the report highlighted a lack of training and understanding among Evergreen employees and residence maintenance personnel regarding the functions of the fire alarm and carbon monoxide systems.

"This was a tragic yet avoidable situation," Chief John R. Batiste said in a statement at the time. "The State Fire Marshal's office is a part of the Washington State Patrol and on behalf of State Fire Marshal Chad Cross, we urge everyone to make sure they have properly working smoke/fire and CO alarms in their homes and businesses and understand their operations and maintenance. When you hear the alarm, get out. Treat each event with the urgency it deserves. Lives depend on it."

In a statement following the State Patrol's report, school officials called Rodriguez's death a "devastating loss" and promised to improve training protocols.

"[The Washington State Patrol's] investigation found that lack of training and insufficient protocols for responding to carbon monoxide alarms contributed to this tragic accident. As a result, we are taking numerous steps to ensure our students' safety - including improving training on incident detection and updating alarm response protocols," the college said.

The McCutcheons were charged with second-degree manslaughter on July 11. Frank McCutcheon appeared in court on Aug 6., where he pleaded not guilty. Brett McCutcheon's arraignment is scheduled for Sept. 3.
by Xinhua writer Wang Aihua

BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- China is recruiting its first college undergraduates majoring in marriage services in an effort to bridge the gap in talent supply for high quality marital services.

The China Civil Affairs University (CCAU), a new entity affiliated to the Ministry of Civil Affairs, will enroll 70 freshmen from across the country this year to study marriage service and management, with courses ranging from family ethics and wedding planning to the design of online matchmaking products.

The students will also have internship opportunities for periods of at least six months in institutions specializing in matchmaking, marriage registration, wedding planning and marriage counseling. Upon graduation, qualified students will receive bachelor's degrees in management.

Yu Xiaohui, dean of the marriage culture and media arts school at the CCAU, said the course is a response to social needs, with China attaching greater importance to the building of happy families at a time when the country is still short of education options for those wanting to offer marriage-related professional counseling services.

In 2020, China issued a set of guidelines instructing civil affairs authorities to develop premarital counseling courses and improve mechanisms for family dispute mediation and divorce counseling. According to a resolution adopted last month at the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, the country will improve the systems for facilitating population development and providing related services.

The CCAU, China's first university offering undergraduate studies in the civil affairs sector, was founded in June this year upon approval from the Ministry of Education. Developed from a vocational school, it plans to recruit around 500 students for five majors including marriage services, elderly care and funeral management.

Yu said the school's existing marriage-related program for junior college students focuses primarily on wedding services, mainly preparing the students for wedding planning and marketing as well as other technical posts such as photographers and makeup artists.

"The undergraduate education will hopefully boost the quality of full-cycle marriage services from matchmaking to marriage counseling and make up for the gap in market supply for such high-level talent," Yu added.

Experts believe changes in social perceptions of marriage and wedding customs will open broad employment prospects for marriage major students, despite falling marriage rates.

Lin Xianping, a researcher with Hangzhou City University, said Chinese people are now more focused on the quality of marriage and family life than previous generations, creating a market need for upgraded marriage services.

Researchers suggest college graduates take on the roles of premarital and marriage counseling and gradually build up work experience and skills, in addition to working for civil affairs departments and community-level management offices. The university also promised to make recommendations for the students when they enter the job market.

The university is partnering with industry leaders to improve curriculum design and build training camps -- with input from both the industrial and education sectors.

Wang Tao, president of Baihejiayuan, a leading internet date arranging company that is planning strategic cooperation with the CCAU, voiced hope that the move could improve the professional skills and work ethics of those employed in the love and marriage-related industry. The company also said it was in urgent need of employees with professional backgrounds.

Besides education, experts also noted the importance of enhancing legislation and supervision to curb fraud in the matchmaking industry, regulate matchmaking institutions, and raise public understanding of marriage and family dynamics. 
PHNOM PENH, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Cambodia attracted fixed-asset investment of 396 million U.S. Dollars in July 2024, the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) said in a news release on Wednesday.

Cambodian government approved 44 investment projects last month, which could generate approximately 25,000 jobs, according to the CDC.

The new projects included a special economic zone, an aluminum processing factory, and a food processing plant, as well as garment, footwear and travel goods factories, among others, it added.

China remained the top investor in the kingdom last month.

"About 68 percent of the investment capital in July 2024 was from China, 14 percent was from domestic source, and the remaining was from the Cayman Islands, Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines," the CDC said.

According to the CDC, during the January-July period of 2024, Cambodian government approved 234 investment projects totally worth 3.64 billion dollars, creating some 193,570 jobs.

Cambodian Ministry of Commerce's Secretary of State and Spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement and the Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA), together with Cambodia's new law on investment, are the key factors to attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to the Southeast Asian country.

"Both RCEP and CCFTA are magnets to attract foreign investors to Cambodia," he told Xinhua. "FDI, particularly from China, is essential to helping boost Cambodia's socioeconomic development and poverty reduction."
Charge dAffaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to Pakistan, Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma on Wednesday said that Indonesia has always remained a staunch supporter of stronger ASEAN-Pakistan ties to bring tangible benefits to their peoples

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Charge dAffaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to Pakistan, Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma on Wednesday said that Indonesia has always remained a staunch supporter of stronger ASEAN-Pakistan ties to bring tangible benefits to their peoples.

Association of South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) and Pakistan have great potential for cooperation in various sectors, such as agriculture, education, fishery, IT, infrastructure, machinery, tourism, etc.

Speaking at the Roundtable Pakistan and ASEAN: A Growing Partnership in Commemoration of 57th ASEAN day at Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma said, I express my sincere gratitude to the ISSI team for their kind collaboration and support in organizing this forum.

He said the ASEAN Day celebrated on August 8 every year reflects the firm commitment of ASEAN member countries to raise its effectiveness by promoting mutually beneficial cooperation and positive contribution in the community of nations through peaceful engagement.

The envoy said this years theme ASEAN: Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience highlights the spirit of work and grow together that offers tremendous potential for new ventures, partnerships in promising and expanding sectors.

In view of the wonderful friendly relations between ASEAN and Pakistan, I trust this is the right time to move ahead for more comprehensive and durable relations since the Southeast asian region is becoming epicenter of economic growth and predicted to be the future hub of world trade, he said.

Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma said the diversity of cultural, economic, political and social systems of the ASEAN countries is the additional attraction of this vast integrated market.

He said the ASEANs centrality has contributed to the preservation of peace and stability in the region and the focus of its external relations lies on equal partnership, mutual benefit, dialogue and cooperation.

He said that realizing the importance of bringing the people of two regions closer to each other, the Indonesian Embassy has also taken various initiatives such as establishing the Indonesian Corner in National library of Pakistan and National Book Foundation together with offering Education Scholarships for the Pakistani to strengthen the connectivity as well as to further foster the people-to-people interaction.

Our great engagement with Ulemas and Muslim scholars from different denominations and extensive visit to various madrasahs in Pakistan have both shown the importance of Indonesia and Pakistan as the two largest muslim countries in the world to build stronger relationship, since the madrassas in both countries have similarities in practicing the classical Islamic curriculum called nizam-e-madrasah, he said.

Charge dAffaires said that Pakistani madrassas have deep understanding in Islamic knowledge in all of its branches, while Indonesian madrassas have excellent concept in contextualizing those into the local archipelagic life across Indonesia.

At the business-to-business level, considering Indonesia as among the largest Pakistan's economic partners, the Indonesian Embassy has increased wider engagement with business players outside its traditional partners, he said.

We approach Business communities in provinces of the Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, not only as partners in economic diplomacy but also as close friends he said.

It is expected, those engagements will help the two countries' relations increasingly more relevant, both in bilateral level or regional level between pakistan-ASEAN, he added.

The envoy said that the establishment of one of the world's largest noodle companies from Indonesia in Faisalabad is expected as milestone for other Indonesian investments to come into Pakistan.

He said that at the government level, there is active interest to enhance efforts for mutual dialogue and strategic cooperation for regional and global peace, stability and trade and investment.

He said, I believe that the necessary positive indicators are there and with the joint efforts of our governments and the peoples, the cooperation between ASEAN and Pakistan will have an even brighter and more harmonious future.
(@FahadShabbir)

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Vice President SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry Anjum Nisar on Wednesday said that inter-regional commercial cooperation was critical for SAARC economic transformation and integration.

"Addressing the challenges, exploring the opportunities, and promoting deeper partnerships with external partners like China and the EU are crucial for unlocking the region's full potential," he said while addressing the 83rd Executive Committee Meeting and 27th General Assembly Meetings of SAARC Chamber Board.

The SAARC Chamber Board met under the chairmanship of Md. Jashim Uddin, President, SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said a press release received here today.

Continuing the momentum of the regional meetings, SAARC Women Entrepreneurs Council (SCWEC) and SAARC Young Entrepreneurs Council (SYEF) were also held to discuss the council's activities and initiatives and to keep propelling the agenda of SAARC.

On the sideline of board meetings, a three-day South Asia Trade Fair 2024 was also held along business conference hosted by the Federation of Sri Lanka Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunawardena and Md. Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of SAARC and Md. Jashim Uddin, President, SAARC CCI, jointly inaugurated the Trade Fair and visited all the stalls.

In his inaugural address, the Prime Minister urged South Asian entrepreneurs to focus on innovative new products and services to enhance regional economic cooperation.

He added, "This forum gives an immense opportunity for trade and businesses across South Asia to exhibit their products and services to grow beyond their usual parameters. It creates a platform for expanding their international trade at the export markets in South Asia and beyond."

Md. Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of SAARC highlighted the significance of government support for the South Asian business community in achieving the region's goals. He further emphasized the need to explore connectivity possibilities at the government level and find solutions to unify all exhibitors from South Asian countries onto a single platform.

Md. Jashim Uddin, President, SAARC CCI commended the efforts of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL) for organizing a platform that fosters cross-border business opportunities.

The business conference titled Investment Cooperation & Trade Facilitation, Advancing the SAARC Agenda was jointly held in collaboration with Friedrich Naumann Foundation, SAARC CCI and Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka.

During the penal discussion, the speakers focused on "Investment Cooperation & Trade Facilitation in SAARC member countries and stressed on the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance economic integration among member states.

They advocated for investments and trade cooperation, leveraging opportunities for Sino-SAARC cooperation and exploring synergies with external partners like EU.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Federal Minister for Industries, Production and National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain on Wednesday stressed that new Pakistani agricultural products should be given access to the American market.

In a meeting with United States (US) Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome, he said that Pakistan values its partnership with the US and appreciated the US cooperation in the Research and Endowment Fund for the Agricultural University. He said the government wants to strengthen agricultural cooperation with the US, and technology transfer is needed to increase production.

The US will continue to cooperate in the social and agricultural sectors in Pakistan, he said adding that already working with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Pakistan on a food deficiency program. He said that the US will enhance its cooperation with Pakistan in the agricultural sector and support Pakistan in mitigating the effects of climate change on agriculture.
(@FahadShabbir)

The police have arrested 3,012 illicit weapon holders from Faisalabad during 2024

FAISALABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) The police have arrested 3,012 illicit weapon holders from Faisalabad during 2024.

A spokesman said here on Wednesday that the police launched a vigorous campaign against illegal weapon holders and arrested 3,012 accused from January 1, 2024 to date.

The police also recovered 2,598 pistols, 98 Kalashnikovs, 158 rifles, 145 guns, 83 repeaters, 17 revolvers, 14 carbines, 8 daggers and 13295 bullets/cartridges while the accused were locked behind bars after registration separate cases for further investigation, he added.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Aug, 2024) Australia is stepping up to help Pakistan combat human trafficking with a new phase of support in latest initiative will strengthen vital systems and provide targeted training for investigators.

Phase II of the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Reporting Enhancement project, funded by the Australian Government, is set to boost Pakistan's fight against human trafficking. This phase will upgrade the TIP hotline and referral system with better infrastructure and a secure data management system.

The project will also enhance the Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) capacity by providing targeted training, improving their ability to handle trafficking cases effectively.

The project was launched at a signing ceremony attended by Neil Hawkins, the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, and Geir Tonstol, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Director for Pakistan. The Director General of the FIA was also present.

Phase II builds on the first phase's achievements, which included setting up a Management Information System (MIS) for TIP reporting and creating a framework for a TIP facilitation center. The current phase aims to further strengthen the FIA and users of the TIP Reporting Portal.

ILO Country Director for Pakistan, Geir Tonstol expressed enthusiasm for the second phase, aiming to improve the capacities of provincial and federal entities in reporting trafficking cases.

He emphasized a comprehensive approach to tackling trafficking, focusing on prevention, protection, prosecution, participation, and partnerships.

Tonstol also highlighted the importance of enabling conditions like freedom of association to eliminate unacceptable work forms. By integrating fundamental labor rights, workers can voice their concerns and advocate for their rights collectively.

Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins emphasized Australia's commitment to combating human trafficking and modern slavery in Pakistan.

He stated that Australia's support is about safeguarding human rights, advancing development, and enhancing Pakistan's global standing. Partnering with the ILO and FIA, the goal is to create a stronger, more coordinated response to protect vulnerable individuals.

The project aims to improve both domestic and cross-border efforts against human trafficking and smuggling. By enhancing communication and collaboration among relevant authorities, the strengthened TIP reporting system will play a crucial role in preventing trafficking and protecting vulnerable populations.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development have agreed to collaborate on initiating steps to provide quality skill training to BISP beneficiaries.

This initiative aims to empower beneficiaries and their families by equipping them with internationally recognized certifications and enhancing their employment prospects both locally and abroad.

In a meeting held today at the office of Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Chairperson of BISP, Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized the need for high-quality training programs.

She highlighted the focus on fields such as home care, hospitality, and receptionist roles, with a strong emphasis on basic work ethics.

"Providing quality training to BISP beneficiaries and their family members is crucial. We are focusing on areas with high demand and potential for international employment. Obtaining international certifications will open doors for our trainees, enabling them to secure jobs abroad and contribute to the country's economy," stated Senator Rubina Khalid.

Chaudhry Salik Hussain expressed his support for the initiative, noting its potential to benefit entire families of beneficiaries.

He stressed the importance of creating job opportunities for the underprivileged and suggested collaborations with countries like Japan and Germany to ensure the highest standards of training.

"This initiative is not just about training individuals; it's about uplifting whole families by providing them with the skills needed to secure better jobs. Partnering with internationally recognized training institutes will help us achieve this goal," Chaudhry Salik Hussain said.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of their teams working closely together to develop a comprehensive program module.

They will focus on demand-driven courses and technical support to ensure the quality of skilled manpower.
RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Aug, 2024) The Armed Forces of Pakistan, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and the Services Chiefs pay a solemn and heartfelt tribute to Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed, recipient of the prestigious Nishan-e-Haider, on the occasion of his 66th martyrdom anniversary on Thursday.

Major Tufail Muhammad, the second recipient of the esteemed Nishan-e-Haider, valiantly laid down his life in 1958 while fearlessly engaging the enemy in the Lakshmipur sector of East Pakistan, an Inter Services Public Relations news release said.

Despite fatal injuries, he resolutely completed his mission, exemplifying unparalleled bravery, unwavering resolve, and unrelenting dedication to duty, it said.

"The martyrdom anniversary of Major Tufail Muhammad Shaheed serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices and selfless devotion of the Pakistan Armed Forces in defending the motherland. We honor the memory of these gallant sons of the soil who have made the ultimate sacrifice to safeguard our nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity," the ISPR said.
(@FahadShabbir)

On special direction of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, "CM Maryam Nawaz Free Wi-Fi" service has been started in Nankana Sahib after Lahore and Kasur

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) On special direction of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, "CM Maryam Nawaz Free Wi-Fi" service has been started in Nankana Sahib after Lahore and Kasur.

The Free Wi-Fi service is operational at five locations in Nankana Sahib in Phase-I. These locations include Masjid Chowk, Tehsil Mor Chowk, Kachhari Phatak, Railway Station.

The chief minister said that more than 25,000 citizens will benefit from the service in Nankana Sahib, adding that in four weeks, citizens of Nankana Sahib have used 250 GB of data from CM Maryam Nawaz Free Wi-Fi service.

CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the use of free internet service by more than 5 million citizens in Lahore is a proof of its success. She directed the authorities concerned to start free Wi-Fi service at 250 more places in Lahore.

Safe City Free Wi-Fi service is available for public at 10 locations in Kasur including DHQ Hospital, Women's College, New Bus Terminal, Railway Station, Model Bazar, DC Office, National Bank Chowk and other places, she said and directed the relevant authorities to start the service at 20 more points in Kasur.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that Safe Cities will soon be functional in Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Gujranwala, adding that by the end of this year, Safe City Authority will be established in 18 cities. Women and students will also be able to get help in emergency situations from CM Maryam Nawaz Free Wi-Fi service, she mentioned.
LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has paid glowing tribute to Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI) Nazir Ahmed, who was martyred in a police encounter with bandits in Chung Lahore.

The CM offered condolences and shared her heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family, saying that Punjab government will fully support the family of martyred ASI Nazir.

The chief minister prayed for the forgiveness and higher rank of martyr ASI Nazir, and said,May Allah grant the bereaved family courage and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss with patience.
NEW DELHI, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Indian authorities have recalled non-essential staff and their families of its high commission and consulates in neighbouring Bangladesh, local media reports quoting government sources said Wednesday.

"All non-essential staff and their families from the Indian High Commission in Dhaka have been evacuated. The High Commission is currently operating with a skeletal staff," a local television news channel NDTV quoting sources said.

Officials said all Indian diplomats remain in Bangladesh and the missions are functional.

India has a huge presence in Bangladesh. Apart from its high commission in Dhaka, India has consulates spread across the country in cities like Chattogram, Sylhet, Rajshahi and Khulna.

The Indian staff evacuation occurred as Sheikh Hasina resigned Monday from her post as Bangladesh's prime minister amid protests. 
RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Commissioner Rawalpindi Division, Engineer Aamir Khattak here on Wednesday visited different city areas to inspect ongoing drainage operation of Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Rawalpindi.

He directed the authorities concerned to ensure drainage of stagnant rainwater from all low-lying areas as soon as possible.

He instructed the officers that Nullah Lai and other drains of the city should be monitored continuously.

WASA Rawalpindi and other relevant departments were on high alert and rain emergency was also enforced in the city, he added.

WASA teams were engaged to drain out stagnant rainwater from low-lying areas with the help of heavy machinery, he informed.

The administration was keeping a close eye on the situation and fully prepared to deal with any kind of emergency, he said.

Engineer Aamir Khattak ordered the WASA authorities to ensure cleanliness of Nullah Lai.
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Ishaq Dar says if the Israeli leadership continues to subvert the legally binding demand for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the entire OIC membership would take several collective measures in response, including imposition of trade and oil sanctions

JEDDAH: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-August 7th, 2024) Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar called for preventing further escalation of tensions and violence in the middle East and facilitating complete, durable and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza.

In his remarks on the extraordinary Open-Ended Meeting of OIC Executive Committee in Jeddah on Wednesday, he said that if the Israeli leadership continues to subvert the legally binding demand for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the entire OIC membership would take several collective measures in response, including imposition of trade and oil sanctions.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister said that the control of the Rafah crossing should be handed back to Egypt in order to enhance the provision of humanitarian assistance to the beleaguered Palestinians in Gaza and meet their needs for food, medicines, energy and other essential supplies.

Ishaq Dar demanded the earliest withdrawal of Israel from Gaza and the commencement of its reconstruction, as envisaged in the plan approved by the Security Council.

He stressed the need to rapidly secure Palestine's admission as a full member of the United Nation and urgently commence the political and diplomatic process to establish the two State solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State within the pre-1967 borders with Al Quds Al Sharif as its capital.

He said that in order to initiate the establishment of an international judicial mechanism, which would seek "restitution, damages and satisfaction" from Israel for its crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide in Gaza and hold accountable those responsible for these crimes.

Highlighting the war crimes of Israel, he said that 40,000 innocent Palestinians, mostly children and women, have been mercilessly martyred by Israel.

He said that extremist Israeli leaders want to prolong and expand the war to ensure their own political survival, perpetuate Israeli occupation and prevent a two state solution.

Commenting on the tragic assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Ishaq Dar said that no amount of words is enough to condemn this horrendous act.

He said that we fully understand the determination of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Palestinian people to respond to and avenge the provocative and criminal assassinations by Israel and the flagrant violation of international law.

He said that we must not fulfill Netanyahu's design for a wider war and such grave action must be avenged.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister said on 2nd of this month the National Assembly of Pakistan unanimously passed a strongly-worded resolution condemning the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh as well as the ongoing Israeli atrocities on Palestinians over the past nine months.

Ishaq Dar said that as Pakistan prepares to take its seat on 1st January 2025 at the UNSC for the two-year term 2025-2026, it would be among our top priorities to advance global peace, including mobilizing political and diplomatic support for addressing long standing disputes and conflicts, especially the Palestinian issue and the Jammu & Kashmir dispute.
The China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a roundtable titled "Pakistan and ASEAN: A Growing Partnership," as part of commemoration of ASEAN Day (8 August) that deliberated upon various facets of the multilateral partnerships among the member states

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) The China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a roundtable titled "Pakistan and ASEAN: A Growing Partnership," as part of commemoration of ASEAN Day (8 August) that deliberated upon various facets of the multilateral partnerships among the member states.

The distinguished speakers included Heads of Missions of ASEAN member states in Islamabad and Pakistans Heads of Missions in ASEAN capitals. Ambassador Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, Additional Secretary (Asia Pacific), MoFA, was the Chief Guest. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI, made remarks at the event, whereas Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director CPSC, moderated the session. Prominent civil servants, diplomats, academicians, civil society members, and media personnel attended the event, a news release said.

Speaking as the chief guest, Additional Secretary (Asia Pacific) Ambassador Imran Ahmed Siddiqui highlighted the significant achievements of ASEAN over the past 57 years, emphasizing the successful cooperation among member states towards the shared vision of "One Vision, One Identity, One Community."

He also underscored the potential for Pakistan to enhance collaboration with ASEAN in trade, economic, political, security, and social and cultural domains, drawing also on shared heritage such as the Gandhara Civilization and Islamic culture. Future avenues for enhanced cooperation were identified including tourism, climate change, counter-terrorism, combating Islamophobia, and cyber security.

Ambassador Sohail Mahmood emphasized the growing partnership between Pakistan and ASEAN, highlighting the collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI).

He acknowledged the leadership of ACI, which is presently chaired by H.E. Col. (Retd) Pengiran Haji Kamal Bashah Bin Pengiran Haji Ahmad and the valuable contributions of ASEAN Heads of Missions. Ambassador Mahmood underscored ASEAN's global salience, noting its economic prowess with a GDP of $3.67 trillion and its strategic relevance in maintaining regional stability and economic integration, including through initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

Ambassador Mahmood elaborated on Pakistans historical engagement with ASEAN, being the oldest Sectoral Dialogue Partner.

He highlighted the expanding scope of collaboration, including trade, counter-terrorism, security, and people-to-people exchanges, with bilateral trade reaching nearly $11 billion in 2022. Emphasizing the need for accelerated progress, he pointed to the importance of implementing Practical Cooperation Areas (PCA) and exploring linkages with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

He also stressed the importance of moving towards graduating the Sectoral Dialogue to Full Dialogue Partnership. Lastly, Ambassador Mahmood reiterated ISSIs commitment to reinforcing efforts for strengthening Pakistan-ASEAN relations through ongoing ISSI-ACI dialogue, the ASEAN Corner, and ISSI-ASEAN think-tank network, fostering deeper ties for mutual prosperity and regional stability.

Col. (Retd) Pengiran Haji Kamal Bashah Bin Pengiran Haji Ahmad, Chairman ACI and High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam, highlighted the bloc's commitment to stability, mutual cooperation, diversity, and inclusivity, which have been instrumental in fostering a resilient region. Ambassador Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia, emphasized the robust bilateral trade that has reached $1.5 billion in 2023-24.

In her remarks, Ambassador Maria Agnes M. Cervantes, the Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan, highlighted severe impact of climate change on both the Philippines and Pakistan, advocating for robust climate action with ASEAN's support.

Ambassador Wunna Han, Republic of the Union of Myanmar, stressed the strong and multifaceted relationship between Pakistan and ASEAN member states that includes collaboration in areas such as education, religion, cultural exchanges and regional cooperation.

Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam underlined long-standing relations between ASEAN and Pakistan including in areas of mutual interest such as politics, culture, science, technology and education. Charge d' Affaires of the Republic of Indonesia, Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma, and Ms. Kamolawan Sriposil, Charge d' Affaires of the Kingdom of Thailand, also spoke about growing Pakistan and ASEAN relations.

Muhammad Faisal shared an academic perspective, emphasizing ASEAN's success in fostering regional economic support and good relations, serving as a valuable lesson for South Asia. He advocated for stronger dialogue partnerships and bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and ASEAN countries.

Pakistani Heads of Missions posted in ASEAN capitals made interventions at the event.

Ambassador Ameer Khurram Rathore, Ambassador to Indonesia and ASEAN, emphasized the critical importance of ASEAN for Pakistan, highlighting the region's role in maintaining peace, security, and economic integration.

Ambassador Zaheeruddin Babar in Cambodia shared growing bilateral trade between Pakistan and Cambodia and highlighted efforts for the opening of a resident Cambodian mission in Islamabad.

Pakistans High Commissioner to Malaysia Syed Ahsan Raza Shah highlighted the increasing number of Malaysian tourists visiting Pakistan and the robust investment relationship between the two nations.

High Commissioner to Singapore Rabia Shafiq underlined that strong bilateral relations between Pakistan and Singapore serve as a crucial gateway to the ASEAN market.

The roundtable concluded with remarks by Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BoG, ISSI, who highlighted the evolution and significance of ASEAN over its 57-year history, emphasizing its role in promoting connectivity, trade, and investment in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Earlier, in his remarks, Dr. Talat Shabbir highlighted the evolving partnership between Pakistan and ASEAN.

He emphasized Pakistan's status as a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN since 1993 and highlighted Pakistans efforts to become a Full Dialogue Partner as part of the Vision East Asia policy.
BAHAWALPUR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) A meeting of the District Afforestation Committee was held at the DC Office's committee room under Additional Deputy Commissioner Headquarters Sumera Rabbani's chairmanship to review arrangements for the Monsoon Tree Planting Campaign 2024.

The meeting was attended by President of the Chamber of Commerce Chaudhry Zulfiqar Maan, Assistant Commissioner of Bahawalpur City Dr Sana Ramchand, Assistant Commissioner of Bahawalpur Saddar Ahmed Sheer Gondal, Forest Controller Khalid Javed Bhutta, DFO Extension Shahid Hamid, DHO Dr Khalid Channar, DEO education Muhammad Akram, along with officials from the Departments of Agriculture, Environment, Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA), Bahawalpur Development Authority (BDA), and other relevant departments.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner Headquarters stated that evergreen and shade trees should be planted during the Monsoon Tree Planting Campaign. She emphasized the importance of planting trees to protect against environmental pollution and global warming, noting that the monsoon season was conducive to plant growth.

She instructed that saplings be obtained from the Forest Department during the campaign.

Additionally, she highlighted the need for proper care and irrigation of the plants, ensuring that soil preparation is done adequately before planting and that regular watering is arranged.

She also mentioned that after planting, there should be field inspections of the plants, and a follow-up committee should be formed for this purpose.

Earlier, the Forest Controller informed the meeting about the significance and utility of the plants and briefed on the arrangements made for the monsoon tree planting throughout the district.

"Saplings are available at the Forest Departments nurseries, and other departments should contact the Forest Department for them," he noted.

Moreover, he informed me, "Various sales points are set up at different locations to provide saplings to the public during the Monsoon Tree Planting Campaign."
HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Police in its continued drive against narcotics and criminals on Wednesday arrested an accused and recovered prohibited raw material.

According to details, Hyderabad Police along with excise police conducted an intelligence-based raid on Pak International Goods Transport and recovered 185 bags of raw material used in the manufacturing of gutka and mainpuri and held an accused Ejaz.

In another drive, Hatri Police acting on a tip-off raided a warehouse and recovered a huge quantity of the bags of raw material from a container.

Police in its crackdown have recovered as many as 1070 bags containing 16410 kilo gram raw material.
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday said that positive discussions were held with Jamat-e-Islami leadership during the negotiations in which some matters were settled in writing. He said that PM Shahbaz Sharif is already following the measures to reduce electricity prices

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday said that positive discussions were held with Jamat-e-Islami leadership during the negotiations in which some matters were settled in writing. He said that PM Shahbaz Sharif is already following the measures to reduce electricity prices.

Talking to the media after the 4th round of negotiations with the JI, the information minister said that Prime Minister's agenda is to reduce electricity prices.

"Jamaat-e-Islami's demand is our agenda to reduce electricity prices", he said. The minister termed today's talks with JI as 'good progress'.

"The round of negotiations have been adjourned until tomorrow, he said adding "even today there has been a lot of progress in the negotiations".

The minister informed that many issues have been agreed during the negotiations, and more issues are to be agreed upon.

"A task force has been set up to look into the issues of IPPs", he added.

The minister further said that JI workers arrested in Sialkot have been released. He repeated that a subsidy of Rs.50 billion has been given to electricity consumers using up to 200 units for three months of June, July and August.

To a question on holding a march as announced by the JI, Attaullah Tarar said that marching is a democratic right of JI.

Liaqat Baloch, JI's vice chief while talking to the media said that JI presented its detailed position to the government.

"No disagreement was expressed with our demands" he said.

Liaqat Baloch said that the atmosphere was good during all the negotiations.
RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) District Health Authority Rawalpindi Dr. Asif Arbab Khan Niazi has said that providing quality health facilities to the people is the primary responsibility of the health department. Serving the suffering humanity is a worshiping act, he said.

The CEO said this during his visit to THQ Hospital, Kotli Satian and Primary Health Center, Lehtrar, here on Wednesday.

According to the details, the CEO reviewed the attendance of hospital staff, the record of supply of medicine from the medical stores, cleanliness situation and other issues. He also inquired about the treatment facilities from the patients being provided by the hospital administration.

He asserted that negligence in dispensation of health facilities would not be tolerated.

He directed the concerned administrations to ensure their on time attendance and further improve the cleanliness.
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MUZAFFARGARH, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Opponents shot at and killed a youth over grudges of litigation.

According to police, an unidentified number of accused people opened indiscriminate fire on the youth named Qasim when the latter was returning from the court after the hearing.

It resulted in his death on the spot.

Locals of the area chased the criminals when they attempted to escape the scene and succeeded in catching up with the two outlaws, who were handed over to the police. Meanwhile, the police have started an investigation.
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Annapolis, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called Tuesday on Bangladesh to respect democracy after Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was tapped to lead an interim government following an uprising.

"Any decisions that the interim government makes, they need to respect democratic principles, need to uphold the rule of law, need to reflect the will of the people," Blinken told reporters.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, who met with Blinken and recently visited Bangladesh, called on all sides to avoid violence.

"We call on all parties to de-escalate and respect universal rights, and we urge a full and independent and impartial investigation into the events in recent weeks," Wong said after the talks at the US Naval academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2024) Beijing-based high-quality industrial internet enterprises IBI and the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications (MoITT) of Pakistan have officially established strategic cooperation relations in a recent development.

Beijing Toodudu E-commerce Co. Ltd. a core subsidiary of IBI, signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Pakistani company Michael & Parker. It is a vital stride taken by IBI to actively respond to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, as well as promote regional economic cooperation and development, said an official on Wednesday.

IBI will join hands with the Pakistani government to tailor global one-stop full-chain services for various industrial chains in Pakistan backed by its superior advantages in digital economy, industrial Internet, cross-border presence of industrial belts and other aspects, thus spurring the collaborative and innovative development of industrial and supply chains.

Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, Shaza Fatima Khwaja fully affirmed the achievements made by IBI in digital economy, industrial Internet, cross-border industrial belts, and elaborated in detail the difficulties and challenges currently faced by Pakistan in these fields.

She expressed the hope that IBI could deeply participate in Pakistans economic development.

According to mutual agreement, IBI will partner with local core enterprises to supports its businesses in Pakistan by giving full play to its mature resources in digital economy and robust digital technology advantages, and work together with the Pakistani government to advance cooperation in cross-border integrated service platform, supply chain collaboration platform, cross-border barter platform, cloud factory program, enterprise promotion and talent exchange, thus promoting the global presence of more enterprises based in both China and Pakistan.

Guests attending the signing ceremony included Minister Shaza Fatima, Ghulam Qadir, Commercial Counsellor at Pakistani Embassy, Erfa Iqbal from the Prime Ministers Office of Pakistan, Liu Junzhai, Director and Senior Vice President of IBI, and Danyal, Vice President and General Manager of Cross-border E-commerce of Toodudu, CEN reported.

So far, cross-border e-commerce has become a bellwether in Chinas economic growth against the trend while facing a global downturn.

The latest data shows that in the first half of 2024, Chinas cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached RMB 1.22 trillion, a year-on-year increase of 10.5%, 4.4 percentage points higher than the overall growth rate of Chinas foreign trade in the same period.

The volume of cross-border mail and parcels supervised by Chinese customs reaches more than 7 billion pieces per year, with an average of 20 million parcels are transported to all parts of the globe by train, plane and ship every day. Specifically for the scale of China-Pakistan e-commerce trade, the figure is about USD 3.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow to about USD 60 billion by 2030.
This photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows a view of a port in Yangon, Myanmar. Myanmar exported over 87,800 tons of fish in the period from April to July, earning over 98 million U.S. dollars, the state-run media the Global New Light of Myanmar reported on Wednesday. (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua)

YANGON, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar exported over 87,800 tons of fish in the period from April to July, earning over 98 million U.S. dollars, the state-run media the Global New Light of Myanmar reported on Wednesday.

The Southeast Asian country exported fish worth 65.75 million U.S. dollars by sea and 32.736 million dollars by land borders.

The exports included more than 20 fish species, including hilsa, rohu, catfish, and seabass, the report said, citing the Myanmar Fisheries Federation.

Myanmar exports fishery products to over 40 countries, mainly to Thailand and China, it added. 
Caracas, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 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 24 civilians dead as of Tuesday, 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.
Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam.
Japan this week restated its aim to rid the world of atomic weapons as it marks the 79th anniversary of the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki  even as the Japanese government seeks assurances the United States would be willing to use its own nuclear arsenal to protect Japan.

At 8:15 a.m. Tuesday  the time that the atomic bomb exploded 600 meters (1,969 feet) above Hiroshima on August 6, 1945  people across Japan marked a minutes silence to remember the horrors visited on the city.

It is the mission of Japan, the only country to have suffered nuclear war, to pass on the reality of the atomic bombings to future generations, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told delegates gathered in Hiroshima.

The manner of Japans defeat in World War II changed the country, driving an aversion to war and military power that lasted for generations. However, after decades of pacifism, the country is undergoing profound changes in its attitude to military power amid multiple regional threats, said Yee Kuang Heng, a professor of international relations at the University of Tokyo.

The DPRK's [North Koreas] nuclear missile programs; Chinese military assertiveness and territorial claims in the East China Sea; Russia's closer military cooperation with China in the past couple of years. These are underlying drivers that have been around for the past couple of years, Heng told VOA.

There is Prime Minister Kishida's oft-quoted fear that Ukraine today could be East Asia tomorrow, especially with potential flashpoints close to Japan, such as Taiwan.

Those threats prompted Japan to last year announce a doubling of defense spending, to 2% of gross domestic product by 2027.

Last week, the United States, Japans closest ally, announced a major upgrade of its military command in the country. During the visit by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Tokyo again sought assurances from the U.S. that it would be prepared to use extended deterrence  that is, nuclear weapons  to defend Japan.

They have always had doubts about the American commitment to use all their might to defend them. And that includes nuclear weapons, which gives you some idea of just how somewhat paradoxical Japans supposed nuclear allergy is, said Grant Newsham, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Center for Security Policy and a former U.S. Marines colonel who served in Japan.

For decades, anger among Asian neighbors over Japans actions in World War II prevented closer regional cooperation. Thats also changing, said analyst Heng.

Countries like the Philippines, they've recently signed very important defense agreements with Japan, such as the Reciprocal Access Agreement, actually the first Asian country to do so with Japan, he said. South Korea, notably under President Yoon [Suk Yeol], has talked up a more forward-looking relationship with Japan.

But 79 years after the trauma of defeat  the destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki  are the Japanese people ready to become a military power once more?

There's a sea change also in the public opinion in my country as well, said Kunihiko Miyake of Japans Canon Institute for Global Studies.

We are not rabbits. We are tortoises. We are probably slow, but we always go ahead, and one step forward at a time, Miyake added. Maybe this time, two or three steps forward.

China has reacted with anger to the rapid changes in Japans military posture.

During World War II, Japan invaded and colonized some Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, and committed serious historical crimes. Japan needs to seriously reflect on its history of aggression and act prudently in the field of military security, said Lin Jian, a spokesperson for Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a press conference last month.

At the same time, say analysts, Japan must secure itself against multiple threats  not least from China itself.
A captivating performance of "Dreamy Dehang" is staged in Dehang Miao village, Jishou city, central China's Hunan province, on June 4, 2023. Combining Miao ethnic culture with breathtaking natural surroundings, the immersive play depicts a love story set in 1938, when a newlywed couple is separated as the groom embarks on a journey to defend the country. [Photo by Liu Jianing/China.org.cn]

A nighttime carnival featuring Miao cuisine, song, dance and traditional clothing at the Chiyou Jiuli Town scenic spot in Chongqing's Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county is attracting visitors from across the country.



Running from late last month to late this month, it features Miao electric music festivals, costume shows, night markets, parades, water-splashing festivals and bonfire parties.

The Miao ethnic group can be traced back to a group living in the eastern plains of China over 7,000 years ago. The group mostly settled in southwestern China, primarily in today's Guizhou, Hunan and Yunnan provinces, from the time of the Tang and Song (618-1279) dynasties.

More than 11 million Miao people are now scattered across nine provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions in southern China, with Guizhou as their main base. Their religious beliefs mainly revolve around nature and ancestor worship.

Miao communities can also be found in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, the United States, France, Argentina and Australia.

Chiyou Jiuli Town's striking architecture, covering more than 28 hectares and with a total construction area of 110,000 square meters, comprises more than 40 buildings built on a hill. It is China's largest stilt building complex.

"I was immediately captivated by the stunning night view of the architecture here," said Chen Jing, a tourist from Beijing who explored the area on Sunday night.

Located in southeast Chongqing, Pengshui is home to 318,000 Miao people who comprise 45.4 percent of the county's population. It has the largest concentration of Miao people in all ethnic minority counties, according to local authorities.

Named after the ancestor and ancient tribe of the Miao ethnic group, Chiyou Jiuli Town was opened to the public in 2015.

Chiyou, a mythical warrior who was the ancestor of the Miao people and the leader of the ancient Jiuli tribe, is held to be one of the three ancestors of the Chinese nation. Legend has it that Chiyou was a formidable tribal chief who clashed with the Yellow Emperor, or Huangdi, and his ally the Red Emperor, or Yandi, before ultimately being defeated in battle.

"After thousands of years of migration and evolution, the Miao ethnic group has gradually transformed from a native Chinese tribe into a global community," said Chen Lin, deputy director of the county's cultural and tourism committee.

Zhao Guanghui, vice-general manager of Chongqing Jiuli Tourism Holdings Group, said, "Chiyou Jiuli Town has not only become a popular tourist destination, but also a symbol of ethnic identity."

Every year on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, a Chiyou sacrificial ceremony is held around a stone totem pillar at the scenic spot, attracting people from around the world.

The 24-meter-tall Jiuli Pillar, the tallest such totem, has a base diameter of 3 meters, and is adorned with 108 carved figures, according to Shanghai China Records, a group dedicated to the cataloging and verification of records. The pillar took 30 stonecutting artists more than eight months to complete.

The scenic spot receives roughly 1.5 million visitors a year.

"The number of customers renting ethnic costumes at my store has increased by more than 30 percent recently," said Wu Song, the owner of a shop at the scenic spot that rents Miao costumes to visitors  mostly young women and families with children.

Besides domestic tourists, the scenic spot also attracts many overseas visitors, especially from Southeast Asian countries.

In the first half of this year, tourism arrivals in the county were up 20.8 percent year-on-year and overall tourism revenue was up 24 percent.
Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou meets with Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, in Montevideo, Uruguay, Aug. 6, 2024. Liu led a CPC delegation to visit Uruguay from Monday to Tuesday. During the visit to Uruguay, Liu met and exchanged views on China-Uruguay relations with Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou, President of the House of Representatives Ana Olivera, Foreign Minister Omar Paganini, and other Uruguayan political figures. The CPC delegation also held discussions and exchanges with representatives of Uruguayan media, think tanks and universities, deeply promoting the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. (Xinhua/Li Mengxin)

MONTEVIDEO/JOHANNESBURG, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, led a CPC delegation to visit South Africa from Wednesday to Saturday and Uruguay from Monday to Tuesday.

During the visit to Uruguay, Liu met and exchanged views on China-Uruguay relations with Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou, President of the House of Representatives Ana Olivera, Foreign Minister Omar Paganini, and other Uruguayan political figures.

The CPC delegation also held discussions and exchanges with representatives of Uruguayan media, think tanks and universities, deeply promoting the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee.

Both sides agreed to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, strengthen inter-party exchanges, and deepen cooperation in economy and trade and other fields under the framework of Belt and Road cooperation.

They also agreed to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, push the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Uruguay to a new level, and promote the development of China-Latin America relations.

During his stay in South Africa, Liu met and exchanged views on China-South Africa relations with Cyril Ramaphosa, president of South Africa and the country's governing party, the African National Congress (ANC), Fikile Mbalula, secretary general of the ANC, Solly Mapaila, general secretary of the South African Communist Party, Ronald Lamola, member of the ANC National Working Committee and South African Foreign Minister, and leaders of some parties of the National Assembly.

Both sides agreed to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries, strengthen inter-party exchanges, deepen exchanges on governing experience, promote pragmatical cooperation in various fields, and boost the development of China-South Africa and China-Africa relations. 
Workers at Australian state-owned submarine builder ASC Ltd began a four-day strike on Wednesday, escalating a campaign for higher wages that threatens maintenance work on the aging submarine fleet Australia must rely on until its nuclear-powered AUKUS replacements arrive in the 2030s.

The 100-hour strike began at noon on Wednesday and includes all of the roughly 350 blue-collar workers at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia state, where Australia maintains its fleet of Collins-class submarines, according to the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU).

The strikes, the latest in a series since May, are adding months of delays to maintenance work on two of Australia's six Collins submarines, according to the union.

ASC said in a statement it could not comment on submarine availability for national security reasons.

Workers are striking over what they say are discrepancies in pay between those employed by ASC Ltd in South Australia state and Western Australia state.

Unions say the workers in South Australia are paid 17.5% less on average and want ASC Ltd to equalize pay for their workers in the two states.

"Workers are frustrated with the company," said AMWU South Australia Assistant State Secretary Stuart Gordon, who flagged the possibility of more strikes next week.

"ASC has said it would address pay parity and come to the bargaining table. But clearly the company has refused to do either."

ASC said unions had rejected multiple offers and it will continue to negotiate in good faith.

The shipyard is vital part of Australia's naval infrastructure and is where ASC and British firm BAE Systems, will jointly build Australia's fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, the core component of the 2021 AUKUS pact between Australia, Britain and the United States.

Australia announced last month a $1.4 billion dollar, four-year contract with ASC to extend the life of the Collins class submarines until the AUKUS replacements are ready.
Bangladeshs military chief announced that Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to be sworn in as head of the countrys interim government on Thursday night upon his return from Paris.

Yunus appointment by General Waker-Uz-Zaman follows the unrest that led to the resignation and departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The unrest began with protests against a government job quota system and expanded into broader opposition to Hasinas long tenure, marked by allegations of human rights abuses and election rigging.

Over 300 people died in the initial weeks of the protests.

Zaman said in a televised address Wednesday that those responsible for recent violence will be held accountable.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin, who is currently a ceremonial leader, dissolved Parliament on Tuesday. This move has paved the way for Yunus to lead the interim government, though the timing of new elections remains uncertain.

Yunus, an economist and banker who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his work with microcredit through Grameen Bank, has been recognized for his efforts in reducing poverty through small loans.

In his first statement since being appointed, Yunus praised the students for their role in recent protests and urged calm. He stressed the need to avoid further violence and focus on rebuilding the country.

As the country transitioned to the interim government, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, or BNP, held a rally in Dhaka. The rally was led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who was recently released from house arrest.

Zia, who served as prime minister from 2001 to 2006, was convicted of corruption in 2018 and sentenced to 17 years in prison. Her party claims the charges were politically motivated.

Supporters gathered for the BNP rally in Dhakas Naya Paltan area hours before it began, reflecting the evolving political situation.

Former Prime Minister Hasina, 76, was reelected for a fourth term in January, but the election faced criticism for being flawed. The U.S. and U.K. condemned the results.

On Wednesday, Dhaka was relatively calm following recent violence. Student volunteers were seen cleaning streets and managing traffic, and police presence was minimal.

Some information for this report was provided by the Associated Press and Reuters.
China carried out a combat patrol to test "strike capabilities" near a flashpoint reef in the South China Sea on Wednesday, as the United States and its allies held joint military drills in the same waters.

Tensions in the disputed waterway have spiked following a series of escalating confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels that have fanned fears of a wider conflict that could draw in the United States due to its mutual defense treaty with Manila.

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, brushing off rival claims of several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, and an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

Its claims include the waters around Scarborough Shoal -- which Beijing seized from Manila in 2012 -- where the Chinese military's Southern Theater Command said Wednesday it had held joint sea and air patrols.

The triangular chain of reefs and rocks is 240 kilometers (150 miles) west of the Philippines' main island of Luzon and nearly 900 kilometers from the nearest major Chinese land mass of Hainan.

Beijing said the maneuvers tested "the reconnaissance and early warning, rapid mobility, and joint strike capabilities of theatre troops."

The announcement came as the Philippines on Wednesday launched two days of sea and air exercises with the United States, Canada and Australia.

The Philippine military said those drills were taking place west of the Philippine island of Palawan, which is south of Scarborough Shoal and the nearest major landmass to the also-contested Spratly Islands.

Among the vessels deployed by the four powers were the guided missile cruiser USS Lake Erie and a Philippine guided missile frigate and patrol ship, Manila's military said.

Separately, the Chinese coastguard also conducted a patrol on Wednesday to "uphold its rights" around another group of disputed islands in the East China Sea that are administered by Japan, Beijing's state media said.

'Meant to intimidate'

Philippine military spokesman Xerxes Trinidad said initial reports showed "no trace of Chinese military activity" near Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday, apart from the usual presence of "Chinese maritime militia vessels."

However, three Chinese naval vessels had "tailed" the four-nation drills, he said.

China has long used its coastguard to assert its claims in the South China Sea, which analysts describe as "grey zone" harassment tactics that fall short of an outright act of war.

And while the Chinese military had been deployed near Scarborough Shoal in the past, one analyst told AFP Wednesday's action showed they were "becoming more aggressive and forceful".

"It's meant to intimidate," Jay Batongbacal, director of the Manila-based Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, said.

"It's definitely meant to send a message, a show of force," he added.

Duan Dang, a Vietnam-based maritime security analyst, said the fact China had specifically mentioned the shoal showed its "mounting dissatisfaction with Manila's recent collaborative efforts with its allies and partners."

Beijing's use of combat patrols in retaliation, he said, "suggests that the Philippines has now become China's second most-targeted adversary, trailing only Taiwan," the self-ruled island Beijing claims as its own.

Aggravate tensions

Recent clashes between Philippine and Chinese vessels have focused on Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands, where a handful of Filipino troops are stationed on a navy vessel that Manila deliberately grounded on the reef in 1999 to assert its claims to the area.

One of the most serious incidents took place in June, when Chinese sailors brandishing weapons including knives and an axe boarded Philippine naval vessels during a resupply mission to the strategic reef.

The Philippine military said one of its sailors lost a thumb in the confrontation in which Beijing's coastguard also confiscated or destroyed Philippine equipment including guns.

Beijing blamed the escalation on Manila and maintains its actions to protect its claims are legal and proportional.

In recent weeks the Philippines and China agreed on a "provisional arrangement" for resupplying Filipino troops at Second Thomas Shoal and also to increase the number of communication lines to resolve disputes in the waterway.

Last month, the United States said it would provide $500 million in additional military funding to the Philippines, which has been modernizing its armed forces.

Beijing said in response that "wooing countries from outside the region to provoke confrontation... will only undermine regional stability and aggravate tensions."
Tahir Imin, a 42-year-old U.S.-based Uyghur activist and former political prisoner from China, tells VOA that he recently learned that six of his former business associates in Xinjiang were sentenced for allegedly attempting to split the country.

"I've learned from two sources that the sentences, handed down in early 2024 by the Urumqi Intermediate People's Court, were linked to their association with me," Imin told VOA. "One received 15 years, while the others got 12."

Information in Xinjiang is tightly controlled, making it extremely difficult to get details about court proceedings. Imin  the founder of the Washington-based Uyghur Times and a member of the Washington-based Uyghur Human Rights Project  said his sources were unable to share documents for fear of retaliation from the Chinese government. Among those charged, he added, was the nephew of a top party official in Xinjiang.

The Urumqi Intermediate People's Court is in the capital of Xinjiang, which is home to nearly 12 million predominantly Muslim Uyghurs. The U.S. and other countries have accused China of genocide in Xinjiang, where more than 1 million Uyghurs are believed to be detained in facilities that Beijing describes as vocational training centers.

China says the measures are necessary to combat extremism, terrorism and separatism. Some people have been detained for practicing their religion or for their contacts with overseas individuals who are speaking out about China's policies in Xinjiang.

When reached for comment on the case, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, told VOA he had not heard of the cases mentioned by Imin.

"China is a law-based country where laws must be observed and those who violate the law must be held accountable," Liu said in an email to VOA. "If the sentencing is linked to accusations of 'attempting to split the country,' please refer to Article 103 of the Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China."

Article 103 of the Chinese Criminal Law states that people who "organize, plot or carry out the scheme of splitting the State or undermining national unity" face life imprisonment or at least 10 years.

The sentences of 12 to 15 years for Imin's former associates suggest they might have been charged under this article.

Not the first time

Imin believes the news about his former associates is part of China's broader strategy of transnational repression against activists like himself.

It is not the first time this has happened to him, he said.

"Previously, I discovered that 28 of my family members were sentenced to prison simply because of their relationship to me," he said. "I am deeply concerned about my daughter, who was forced to denounce me, and my estranged wife, who was forced to divorce me."

Imin told VOA that he has not heard from his wife or daughter in years and has no way of knowing whether they are alive or living freely.

"That leaves me with a constant sense of guilt and sorrow," he said.

Imin and the six sentenced business associates  Ismail Kerim, Elqem Ilham, Dawut Osman, Yashiq Ahmed, Nurmemet Imin and Rashidin Gheyret  founded Xinjiang Ottuz Oghul Import and Export Trading Co., Ltd. in 2014.

Imin left China in March 2017, first relocating to Israel before settling in Washington. After moving to the U.S., he lost touch with his former associates and began speaking out against alleged abuses in Xinjiang. As a result, his associates severed contact with him, leaving him unable to track the fate of the company they once shared.

VOA was able to find details about his import-export firm on Chinese company search websites. According to Alibaba's 1688 business-to-business website, the company and its associates registered with the Urumqi Municipal Administration for Market Regulation on May 14, 2014, with Tahir Imin listed as the representative and chairman and the other sentenced individuals in administrative roles.

Imin says his former associates all had separate businesses, with their joint company serving as a collaborative venture.

"We were all well-educated and focused on business and social improvement," Imin said. "Our company's motto was development, cooperation and social responsibility."

Family ties

Ilham, one of the former business associates who was sentenced, is a nephew of Kaiser Abdukerim, the current vice chairman of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, according to Imin.

VOA couldn't independently verify the connection between Ilham and Abdukerim. Despite multiple calls to a number listed on the Xinjiang government website, the calls went unanswered.

Abdukerim has long been a vocal supporter of the Chinese government's policies in Xinjiang. At the United Nations in 2018, as president of Xinjiang Medical University, he defended the government's policies, calling them social progress even as allegations of mass detentions and human rights abuses were growing.

In March 2023, as vice chairman of Xinjiang, Abdukerim claimed on CGTN that international criticism of Xinjiang was an attempt to interfere in China's internal affairs.

Restricted access

According to information collected by the Xinjiang Victims Database, which documents individuals affected by China's policies in Xinjiang, all of Imin's former colleagues were arrested in July 2021 on charges of problematic association. They later attended a hearing in March of 2023. Imin's update about their sentencing is the latest on their status.

According to Gene Bunin, curator of the Xinjiang Victims Database, access to court verdicts and legal documents is highly restricted with the government now requiring users who want to access them to use Chinese platforms such as WeChat or AliPay.

"The other reason is that, even when accessible, they [Chinese authorities] generally did not post any of the sensitive cases, which is the vast majority of criminal cases for Xinjiang," Bunin told VOA.

He said that in a study he carried out in 2018, only 7,000 of 70,000 criminal cases in Xinjiang had verdicts posted.

"This rate, of around 10%, was by far the lowest in the country, as for most provinces/regions at least 60-70% of the verdicts were posted," said Bunin. "Of the 7,000 visible, almost all were for standard crimes that would be recognized anywhere in the world (drunk driving, theft, robbery, rape, murder, etc.), with essentially no political/religious cases."

According to a Human Rights Watch report released in 2022 that was based on Xinjiang government data, more than half a million people had been prosecuted since 2017.
From teaching at a high school in China to his experience serving on a key congressional committee that focuses on relations between Beijing and Washington, Democratic vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz has a decades-long connection with China dating back to the pro-democracy protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989.

As an educator, Walz taught American History, culture, and English to Chinese students at the Foshan No.1 High School in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong in 1989, the year that saw hundreds of thousands of Chinese students protesting against the ruling Chinese Communist Party in Tiananmen Square.

China was coming, and thats the reason that I went, Walz said in a 2007 interview with The Hill, a Washington D.C.-based news website. During his one-year teaching stint in China, Walz was nicknamed Fields of China by his students due to his kindness.

His time in China had an impact on his perspectives of Chinese peoples lives under the ruling Communist Party.

If they had the proper leadership, there are no limits on what they could accomplish, he said in an interview with the Star Herald in 1990, describing teaching in China as one of the best things he has ever done.

His interest in China didnt stop there. Upon returning to the United States, Walz and his wife set up a company named Educational Travel Adventures to coordinate summer trips to China for American high school students.

Five years after the Tiananmen Square protests and the Chinese governments violent crackdown, Walz returned to China with his wife for their honeymoon and they brought along two American high school tour groups. Walz continued running the summer exchange program to China for American students with his wife until 2003.

Advocating human rights in China

After becoming a member of Congress in 2007, Walz continued to focus on issues related to China. During his time in Congress, Walz served on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, which focuses exclusively on human rights issues in the country.

Walz quickly established himself as a vocal critic of the Chinese government, holding regular meetings with high-profile activists from China and Hong Kong, including prominent Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong and Tibets spiritual leader Dalai Lama.

In an interview with VOA in 2014, Walz recounted his impression of witnessing the student-led protest in Tiananmen Square unfold. I remembered waking up and seeing the news on June Fourth that the unthinkable had happened, he said.

While most Americans at the time decided to leave China due to security concerns following the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, Walz said he felt it was more important than ever to go to China because he wanted to ensure that the story was told and let the Chinese people know that the outside world was with them.

In addition to engaging with activists from China and Hong Kong, Walz also co-sponsored several resolutions on key human rights issues in China, including demanding the release of Chinese Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo and Chinese activist Huang Qi, as well as co-signing the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act in 2017.

In one of his congressional remarks in 2016, Walz highlighted the importance of having constructive dialogues with Beijing to ensure the preservation of traditional Tibetan culture and Tibets fragile ecology.

The U.S. was founded on the ideas of universal freedom, and I believe that we must continue to urge the Chinese government to provide less regulated religious freedom to the Tibetans, he said at the time.

Foreign policy boost

In addition to being a vocal critique of Chinas human rights record, Walz also expressed concerns about Chinas attempt to expand its presence in the South China Sea in 2016, citing Beijings efforts to build artificial islands in the disputed water as the reason to oppose Washingtons attempt to reduce military spending.

Despite his strong stance on Chinas human rights record and military posture, Walz continued to stress the importance of maintaining cooperation with China. I dont fall into the category that China necessarily needs to be an adversarial relationship, he said in a video interview with Agri-Pulse Communications.

I think we need to stand firm on what they are doing in the South China Sea, but there [are] many areas of cooperation that we can work on, Walz added.

Some analysts say Walzs deep connections to China and track record in U.S.-China diplomacy could potentially help the Democratic presidential pair make more informed decisions on foreign policy, especially on issues related to China.

I think [his emergence as Democratic vice-presidential nominee] is going to put a lot of people who care a lot about American foreign policy in this part of the world at ease, knowing that there is someone on the ticket who is informed, has spent time in the region, and is not starting from square one when it comes to learning about American foreign policy in East Asia, said Lev Nachman, a political scientist at National Taiwan University.

He said since Walz has expressed many humanistic views of the Chinese people, Tibetan people, and Hong Kongers, the Minnesota governor could add more nuance to the policy debate related to China in the United States.

He may be able to articulate the need to push back against Chinas authoritarianism and human rights violations in different parts of the world in a way that doesnt vilify Chinese citizens or doesnt lean antagonistically in this overtly scare tactic rhetoric that I think a lot of U.S.-China discourse has turned into in the U.S., Nachman told VOA by phone.
Soaring temperatures in July have had detrimental effects on the well-being of hundreds of millions of people worldwide who have found the monthlong extreme heat too hot to handle, according to the World Meteorological Organization.

The extreme heat, which continued throughout July after a hot June  has had really, really devastating impacts on communities, on peoples health, on ecosystems, also on economies, WMO spokesperson Clare Nullis told journalists Tuesday in Geneva.

Extreme heat has a domino effect across society, she said, noting that the worlds hottest day on recent record was registered on July 22. All of this is really yet another unwelcome indication, one of many, of the extent that greenhouse gases from human activities are, in fact, changing our climate.

WMO data show widespread, intense and extended heat waves have hit every continent in the past year and global average temperatures have set new monthly records for 13 consecutive months from June 2023 to June 2024.

At least 10 countries in the past year have recorded daily temperatures of more than 50 degrees Celsius [122 degrees Fahrenheit] in more than one location, Nullis said. You can well imagine this is too hot for the body to handle.

WMO reports that Death Valley in California, considered to be the hottest place on Earth, registered an average monthly temperature of 42.5 degrees Celsius (108.5 degree Fahrenheit) at Furnace Creek, which is a record for the site and possibly the world.

WMO normally does not measure monthly temperature records. But Randall Cerveny, chief rapporteur for the WMOs committee for evaluating climate and weather extremes, said the record appeared to be reasonable and legitimate.

While human-induced activity is largely responsible for the long-term warming trend, meteorologists cite above-average temperatures over large parts of Antarctica as another contributing factor.

According to the European Unions Copernicus Climate Change Service, this has resulted in anomalies of more than 10-degrees Celsius above average in some areas, and above-average temperatures in parts of the Southern Ocean.

WMO climate expert Alvaro Silva said two consecutive heat waves that hit Antarctica over the last two years have contributed to record global temperatures.

The reason is still under research, but it seems to be related with the daily sea ice extent, he said, noting the Antarctic daily sea ice extent in June 2024 was the second lowest on record.  This follows the lowest extent that we have in Antarctica in terms of sea ice in 2023.

Sea ice extent is the surface area of ice covering an ocean at a given time.

Speaking from the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, Silva provided a sobering regional overview of the heat waves and extreme heat events, which are contributing to record global temperatures.

He observed that July was the warmest on record in Asia, while in Africa, he cited record-breaking temperatures in Morocco as having had an important impact in terms of human health and deaths.

He said intense heat waves in southern and southeastern Europe have caused casualties and severe impacts on health. At the same time, he pointed out that the fallout of heat waves in North America have been quite severe, noting that on August 1, more than 160 million people, about half of the United States population, were under heat alert.

WMO officials say evidence of our rapidly warming planet underscores the urgency of the Call to Action on Extreme Heat initiative launched by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres July 25.

In issuing this call, the U.N. chief warned that Earth is becoming hotter and more dangerous for everyone, everywhere and this was posing an increased threat to our socio-economic and environmental well-being.

WMO officials also stressed the importance of adaptation to climate change as a lifesaving measure, noting that recent estimates produced by WMO and the World Health Organization indicate the global scale-up of heat-health-warning systems for 57 countries alone has the potential to save an estimated 98,000 lives per year.

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said bolstering heat early warning systems in line with her agencys Early Warnings for All Initiative would ensure at-risk populations receive timely alerts so they can take protective actions.

But, she emphasized, climate adaptation alone is not enough.

We need to tackle the root cause and urgently reduce greenhouse gas levels, which remain at record observed levels.
The final phase of the race for the White House kicked into high gear Tuesday as Kamala Harris and her Democratic vice-presidential running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz held a rally in Philadelphia. Minnesota attorney Jack Rice provides insights into Walz and what he can contribute to the campaign. Details on an Iranian plot to kill former President Donald Trump and other high-profile U.S. politicians and officials. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will head Bangladesh's interim government after longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country amid a mass uprising. Singles are ditching the dating apps for new in-person events.
A helicopter crashed in a forest outside Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, shortly after takeoff on Wednesday, killing all five people on board, an official said. The crash is the latest of more than a dozen air crashes in the mountainous region since 2000.

The helicopter, operated by Air Dynasty, crashed into a Himalayan forest in Shivapuri National Park of Nuwakot district, 57 kilometers (35 miles) from the capital, deputy Chief District Officer Krishna Prasad Humagain said.

Police spokesperson Dan Bahadur Karki confirmed all four passengers were Chinese nationals, three men and one woman, while the pilot was a Nepali male.

Residents saw a fire emanating from the forest and alerted authorities, he said.

The helicopter, which was en route to Rasuwa district from Kathmandu, lost contact with air traffic control three minutes after takeoff, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal said in a statement.

More than 360 people have died in plane or helicopter crashes in Nepal in the past 24 years.

Wedged between India and China, landlocked Nepal is home to eight of the world's 14 highest peaks, and its planes often service small airports nestled in remote hills or near peaks blanketed in clouds.
Restrictions on phone and internet service, and increased surveillance, are leaving large parts of Myanmar cut off from outside information, a recent report finds.

The report by nonprofit Athan Myanmar shows that more than 80 townships have had phone and internet service cut so far this year, and authorities have arrested at least 70 people for alleged criticism of the military. The internet is blocked completely in some regions and has been slowed in others.

A person who works in the fiber internet business told VOA that the expanded censorship is making it increasingly difficult to access news websites and social media. Many people in Myanmar use social media to access media and information.

I will tell you  Facebook Messenger, news websites, BBC and Reuters, etc., [have been] disrupted since yesterday, said the person, who asked not to be named because of security concerns. The Military Council has banned many of the software that provides the base for our cloud server. We can't use it anymore. If you want to use them, you have to use a VPN.

The military  also known as the Tatmadaw  is actively blocking virtual private networks, or VPNs, which help internet users bypass restrictions to access websites, as well as social media and messaging platforms.

The move "poses a major threat to press freedom, activism and the ability of people to hold their government accountable," Simon Migliano, head of research at Top10VPN, told VOA last month. The London-based organization tests the security of VPNs and researches internet and tech security.

The Athan Myanmar report shows that almost all the townships in Rakhine State, Sagaing Region, Chin State, Kachin State and the northern Shan State capital, Lashio, are affected. All are experiencing intense resistance fighting, or in the case of Sagaing, is a stronghold of the People's Defense Forces, the unity governments armed wing that opposes the coup.

U Han from the Myanmar Internet Project told VOA that the consequences of cutting phone access in the midst of fighting and a political volatile situation is troubling.

It has a direct impact on all the daily life activities of people of all walks of life, and because of what happens, it affects human rights, he said.

Since the military seized power in February 2021, it has sought to block access to independent news and information. Media licenses were revoked, internet blocked and dozens of journalists jailed.

At least 176 journalists have been arrested and four killed, with as many as 50 still in jail or in police detention, according to the International Federation of Journalists.

The military council has not responded to VOA's questions about internet restrictions. It has previously denied targeting media.

Data by media watchdogs and rights groups, however, show Myanmar has a poor record in upholding freedoms.

Freedom House says Myanmar is the second-worst country globally, after China, for suppression and violating digital rights. Reporters Without Borders ranks the country 171 out of 180 on the World Press Freedom Index, where 1 shows the best environment.

The watchdog says that journalism in Myanmar is an extremely dangerous profession and notes significant risks of [media workers] being tortured, jailed or murdered.

This story originated in VOAs Burmese Service.
Israels foreign minister has called for the death of Yahya Sinwar, the newly appointed leader of Hamas, as Israel braces for expected retaliation from Iran following its killing of a commander of Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon and the killing of Sinwars predecessor in Tehran last week.

Foreign Minister Israel Katz said on X that the appointment of Sinwar, who he called an arch-terrorist, is yet another compelling reason to swiftly eliminate him and wipe this vile organization off the face of the earth.

Israel has not claimed responsibility for the assassination of Hamas previous leader, Ismail Haniyeh, but his July 31 death prompted Iranian leaders to blame Israel and pledge a response.

On Wednesday, Hamas named Sinwar, one of the architects of the October 7 terror attack on Israel, as its new leader, a move that Katz said sends a clear message to the world that the Palestinian issue is now completely controlled by Iran and Hamas.

Katz also said Israel must maintain security control over the Israel-occupied West Bank in order to prevent Iran from establishing another extremist stronghold.

Anything else will lead to the creation of another Iranian outpost in the region, which will explode in the face of the world and all regional countries, Katz said.

The Israeli military has conducted repeated raids in the West Bank that it says are aimed at disrupting militant activity and potential attacks against Israel. About 600 people have been killed by Israeli fire in the West Bank since the war in Gaza began in October.

With Hezbollahs leader also vowing to respond to Israels killing of one of its commanders, Fouad Shukur, last week in Beirut, international fears have grown for the possibility of an expanded regional conflict.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that everyone in the region needs to make decisions that will calm tensions, not exacerbate them.

We will continue to defend Israel against attacks from terrorist groups or their sponsors, just as well continue to defend our troops, Blinken said. But everyone in the region should understand that further attacks only perpetuate conflict, instability, insecurity for everyone. And further attacks only raise the risk of dangerous outcomes that no one can predict and no one can fully control.

Blinken said the only path to ending the conflict in Gaza and bringing calm to the region is securing a long-sought cease-fire in Gaza.

The White House said Tuesday that President Joe Biden spoke Tuesday with both President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt and Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar to renew the Gaza cease-fire effort. The leaders agreed on the urgency of bringing the process to closure as soon as possible, according to a White House statement.

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas in retaliation for the October 7 terror attack that killed 1,200 people and led to the capture of 250 hostages. Israels counteroffensive has killed at nearly 40,000 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.

Some information for this story was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
A honey vendor displays his product for customers during a honey fair held in Sanaa, Yemen, on Aug. 5, 2024. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua)

SANAA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Renowned globally for its unique flavor and quality, Yemeni honey has been a source of pride for the country. But beekeepers say they are struggling to maintain production amid a complex set of challenges.

"The war has severely restricted our movement and driven up fuel costs, making it difficult to transport beehives," said Abdu Omar Hashem, a beekeeper from Hajjah province in north-western Yemen.

Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014, when the Houthis seized control of much of northern Yemen, forcing the internationally recognized government out of the capital Sanaa.

Traditional Yemeni beekeeping relies on nomadic practices, with beekeepers following seasonal flower blooms. However, the conflict has made this impossible due to the presence of unexploded ordnance and landmines.

"Unjust logging of bee pastures is another major problem," said Hashem, calling on authorities to address the issue to prevent a decline in honey production.

Muntasir Al-Auadhy, a honey exporter, said that falling export demand, caused by economic sanctions imposed on Yemen's Houthi-controlled areas, has also hit the industry.

"Among the challenges we experience is the exportation downfall that led to the local market recession," he said.

Before the civil war began in 2014, Yemen exported over 2,000 tonnes of honey annually. Yemen's honey production was 2.6 million tonnes in 2013, but plummeted to barely 1,500 tonnes in 2023, according to official data from the internationally recognized government in Aden.

Yemen's diverse climate and terrain give rise to a rich tapestry of honey varieties, many of which are considered among the world's finest. Cherished by locals as "liquid gold," Yemeni honey boasts a history spanning at least 3,000 years and commands premium prices globally. 

A honey vendor displays his product for customers during a honey fair held in Sanaa, Yemen, on Aug. 5, 2024. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua)
Doctors Without Borders, also known by its French acronym MSF, says it recorded an alarming 23,000 cases of severe malnutrition in Nigerias Bauchi state between January and June this year  a 120% increase over the same period a year before.

The group on Tuesday also said overall malnutrition in the West African nation increased by 40% nationwide and warned that without immediate intervention, the situation could become catastrophic.

Thierry Boyom, MSF's medical coordinator, said poverty is a key driver of malnutrition but not the only reason why the numbers are surging.

"From the feedback we got, a lot of them were complaining about the significant increase in the prices of basic food items compared to last year, so they can't afford three meals per day, Boyom said. [Also] the lack of access to health care and water. There are a lot of health facilities but they're not fully functional because of lack of supply. Also we observe poor infant-feeding practices by the mothers. Vaccination coverage in Bauchi is a bit low, leading to diseases such as measles, a big driver of malnutrition.

MSF has been responding to the malnutrition crisis in Bauchi since 2022. The group said its treatment centers and personnel are overstretched and they are trying to make room for more sick children.

Nigeria has the second highest burden of growth-stunted children in the world, according to UNICEF, the United Nations Childrens Fund.

UNICEF said malnutrition is the direct or underlying cause of 45% of all deaths in the country under the age of 5.

For years, Nigeria has been embroiled in a protracted war with armed gangs who often kidnap farmers and hold them for ransom.

The resulting loss of food production, along with general insecurity and rising food prices, have hampered the ability of vulnerable people to buy food. The situation is especially bad around July and August each year  the so-called peak of the lean season when food from previous harvests normally runs out.

Abubakar Saleh, Bauchi state nutrition officer, said authorities are working to bring the number of malnourished children down.

"We're trying to scale up micro-nutrient supplementation for pregnant mothers, that is to start preventing malnutrition from the mother, for them to have healthy pregnancies, Saleh said. And also in the area of treatment, we have interventions support by USAID-Ukraine for the management of severe acute malnutrition. And also, we're doing maternal, newborn and child health week  it's a campaign and through that campaign we screen children for malnutrition."

Last month, MSF launched a community-based intervention known as Integrated Community Case Management in eight villages and equipped local women with early testing tools to help them detect malnutrition faster.

Boyom said it is bridging the gap.

"They were trained to be able to identify malnutrition, signs of severity or medical complications. But also, they were trained to manage on the spot the cases of simple malnutrition. On top of that they're also trained to manage malaria," Boyom said.

But until insecurity is addressed and there's more funding to help the vulnerable, many more children will be struggling to survive.
The Philippines launched on Wednesday two days of joint sea and air exercises with the United States, Canada and Australia, a joint statement said, as Beijing presses its territorial claim over the South China Sea.

The maneuvers will be held "within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone" and showcase "our collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific," top military officials of the four nations said.

The exercises come as China's saber-rattling towards Taiwan and over the South China Sea fuels fears of a potential conflict that could drag in the United States.

Beijing claims most of the strategic South China Sea, dismissing an international tribunal ruling that its claims were without basis.

Manila held separate naval exercises in the South China Sea last week, first with the United States and then with Japan two days later.

A joint coast guard exercise is also scheduled off Manila Bay on Friday between the Philippines and Vietnam.

The Philippines has a mutual defense treaty with the United States and signed a treaty with Japan last month that will allow the deployment of troops on each other's territory.

The "multilateral maritime cooperative activity" will be the first as a group by the four nations and involve naval and air force units, a Filipino military spokesman told AFP.

"The naval and air force units of participating nations will operate together enhancing cooperation and inter-operability between our armed forces," said the joint statement, which did not name the participating vessels and military units.

"Australia, Canada, the Philippines and the United States uphold the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, as well as respect for maritime rights under international law, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea."
When it comes to hostile governments jailing journalists, happy endings are few and far between. That's what made last week's historic prisoner swap between the United States and Russia so welcome for the press freedom community. Included among the 16 political prisoners freed from Russian custody were the wrongfully detained American journalists Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva. On Aug. 1, just hours before the journalists were expected to land at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington, Kurmasheva's husband, Pavel Butorin, and the couple's teenage daughters Bibi and Miriam, spoke with VOA at The Wall Street Journal's Washington office. "We've learned to keep our emotions and expectations in check. Even now, still, I'll believe it when I see her and when we hug her," Butorin said, sitting at a conference table. It was my latest of several interviews with Butorin over the months since his wife's arrest in Russia, but already he seemed happier, lighter. Butorin isn't the saccharine type, but the journalist's voice cracked when he spoke about the support for Kurmasheva and their family. "If anything brings a tear to my eye, I think it's that," he said.

The couple's daughters were sitting on a nearby couch. Bibi, the eldest at 16, futzed with the paper she had peeled off a water bottle. She spoke about the private tour President Joe Biden personally gave the families earlier that day. "The White House was really cool," she said. But talking with her mom on the phone in the Oval Office was even better. "It was really nice to hear her voice and to hear that she's doing well," she said. Butorin and Miriam laughed, saying they could barely remember what they spoke about with Kurmasheva because they were so overwhelmed. But it didn't really matter, because later that humid day, not long after 11:30 p.m., a Bombardier jet landed outside Washington from Ankara, Turkey.

On board were Kurmasheva, who works at VOA's sister outlet Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in Prague; Gershkovich, who works at The Journal; and Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine. Russia had jailed all three on charges that are widely viewed as baseless and politically motivated. Dozens of journalists  plus Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and a flock of White House staffers  watched as Whelan descended the plane's steps, followed by Gershkovich, and finally Kurmasheva. It felt as if everyone watching held their breath in the moments between the plane door opening and the Americans walking out, one by one.

Each first spoke with Biden and Harris, then turned to their waiting families. Gershkovich embraced his mother. But that wasn't enough, so he lifted her off her feet. Kurmasheva was next. Under a pitch-black sky and floodlights, she and her daughters ran across the tarmac to meet one another. They had not embraced in more than a year. It was a period that weighed heavily on this tightly knit family.

The release of the Americans was a long time coming. I started reporting on Gershkovich's case when he was arrested in March 2023 and falsely accused of espionage. I began covering Kurmasheva's case after Russian authorities detained her in October 2023, also on bogus charges. Mornings often began with a quick internet search of their names for any developments in Russia while I was asleep. As VOA covered the court hearings, inevitable extensions of pre-trial detentions, and milestones marked in custody, I spoke regularly with those connected to the case, including Butorin and Paul Beckett, the Journal editor who led the newspaper's campaign to free Gershkovich.

Beckett had never met Gershkovich. When we spoke a few hours after the swap was confirmed, he was excited that the long-awaited meeting was close. "Joy, gratitude, tears, smiles  everything at once," Beckett said. "I'm going to say [to Evan], 'Nice to meet you.'" The journalists' drawn-out cases had rapidly concluded after Gershkovich's case and then Kurmasheva's were fast-tracked to convictions that both took place on July 19, in closed-door hearings. For those watching, it seemed that a prisoner swap was imminent. Moscow had previously indicated it would be willing to exchange Gershkovich only after a conviction. On Monday, July 29, VOA learned that a prisoner swap would likely take place that Thursday and would involve multiple political prisoners. But everything was tightly under wraps and tinged with uncertainty. The full scope came into focus in the coming days. Belarus, a close Russian ally, unexpectedly pardoned a German sentenced to death on terrorism charges. Then Slovenia announced the deportations of two Russians who were convicted of spying. And the families and lawyers of several high-profile political prisoners in Russia, including Whelan and political activist and columnist Vladimir Kara-Murza, began saying their loved ones had disappeared from their prisons. Ahead of a scheduled briefing from the White House on Aug. 1, I spent a sleepless night monitoring Kremlin-backed media and exiled Russian outlets on Telegram. Before sunrise in Washington, I started tracking a plane from Moscow to Ankara that some reporters believed was transporting those involved in the swap. But it wasn't until the embargoed White House National Security Council call at 8 a.m. that the U.S. confirmed Gershkovich and Kurmasheva would be coming home. The White House made clear the group was still in Russian custody, in Russian airspace, and not safe. Reporting too early could put the whole deal in jeopardy, they said.

In this kind of situation, even if journalists weren't technically breaking an embargo because they had confirmed the news from separate sources, some media ethics experts said it likely would have been unethical to report because human lives were potentially at stake. Bloomberg, however, reported. Seeing the early reports, several news networks, including my team at VOA, were horrified. There was nothing to stop Russia from turning the plane around  and Russia has a history of reneging on prisoner swap deals at the last minute. Prisoner swaps are inherently fragile, according to international human rights lawyer Jared Genser, who has helped release more than 300 political prisoners in his career. "I really hold my breath in all these kinds of circumstances," he told me while the political prisoners were still en route to Ankara. "Until it's actually done and the exchange has actually happened, I really don't believe that it has been completed." And Kelly McBride, of the Craig Newmark Center for Ethics and Leadership at the Poynter Institute, told me, "We can't let our competitiveness undermine our ability to make decisions that benefit the common good." The Guardian's media columnist Margaret Sullivan agreed. "It would have been absolutely horrible if early reporting had messed up this deal," Sullivan told me. "There are times when it's really important to be cautious, and this was one of them."
Chinas Confucius Institutes teach Chinese around the world, but theres more to them than that. VOA's Kate Bartlett visited a new one that is hundreds of kilometers outside the capital in rural South Africa thats also focusing on green technology. Camera: Zaheer Cassim.
Days after the United States and Russia completed a historic prisoner swap, Russian state media continue to promote the unfounded claim that Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was spying for the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency.

Gershkovich was one of the 16 people Russia released in the landmark prisoner exchange on August 1. Like the other freed American citizen, Paul Whelan, a Russian court sentenced Gershkovich to 16 years in prison on what the U.S. called trumped-up espionage charges.

On August 5, the Russian Federal Security Service, FSB, released heavily edited video and audio recordings of Gershkovich and Whelan, which they said, proved the two Americans espionage activities in Russia.

Russian state broadcaster RT published fragments of footage showing law enforcement approaching Gershkovich at a restaurant in Yekaterinburg in March 2023.

With a red highlighter, focused on Gershkovichs right hand under a table, RT said the journalist attempted to hide what appeared to be a flash drive with illegally obtained classified data.

The journalist is seen sitting in a restaurant with his source, as the pair discuss in Russian how to hand over secret data on the countrys defense industry in a way that wont allow the authorities to track the leak.

That is misleading.

The recordings provide no evidence Gershkovich committed any crime or was involved in espionage. The audio and video published by RT attest to Gershkovichs engagement in normal journalistic activities before his arrest.

The video montage starts by showing a man who approaches Gershkovichs table, sits next to him, gives something to the American, and leaves. Immediately after, men in civilian clothes surround Gershkovich using force to arrest him although he does not resist.

The footage was digitally manipulated to replace its natural sound with dramatic music and blur the sources face.

The video then freezes on a frame showing Gershkovich sitting at the table with a red circle added to highlight his right hand holding something under the table.

The clip continues with the audio recording of the alleged conversation between Gershkovich and his source, who tells the reporter in a digitally altered voice he has secret information, but none of the released audio clarifies what that information was.

Russia accused Gershkovich of seeking to obtain information about the Uralvagonzavod factory, a large-scale facility that produces tanks roughly 81 miles north of Yekaterinburg.

None of the recordings published by RT has Gershkovich discussing the Uralvagonzavod facility or related industries.

In a television broadcast, RT aired a portion of the audio recording to claim that Gershkovich had been caught red-handed attempting to coerce a representative of a Russian arms manufacturer into handing over classified information.

RT did not mention in its report that in the audio recording Gershkovich asked the representative to leave the device with the data at home and told him the meeting was for an interview. RT didnt include that portion of the audio in its TV broadcast either.

Yet, the unidentified individual is heard asking Gershkovich to be very careful, saying the information is secret.

Gershkovich replies that they will not mention seeing the documents and cite anonymous sources in the report. That, he said, will keep authorities from suspecting that they had collected information, or that a source had leaked information.

Gershkovich continues:

The approach here is, like right now, this is just an interview.

The FSB and RT did not present any recording, video, or audio, to prove that Gershkovich requested specific secret information or even had knowledge of the content of the device a source had given to him.

Taken together, Gershkovichs actions indicate he was acting as a journalist, seeking ways to protect the identity of his interviewee.

In a statement published by the U.K. Telegraph, Wall Street Journal Publisher Almar Latour and Editor-in-Chief Emma Tucker condemned the use of the FSB video to frame Gershkovich.

This video is only the latest evidence that Russia will stop at nothing in its methodical effort to demolish reliable journalism. Evan was doing his job as a journalist, and any portrayal to the contrary is fiction. Journalism is not a crime, they said.

In March, the U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention found the Russian authorities had provided a striking lack of any factual or legal substantiation for the espionage charges leveled against Gershkovich.
Thailands Constitutional Court ruled Wednesday to dissolve the opposition Move Forward Party and ban its executives -- including up-and-coming lawmaker Pita Limjaroenrat  from politics for a decade.

The courts decision is the latest dilution of democracy by the conservative Thai establishment which refuses to cede power to pro-democracy movements, reform advocates say.

The nine judges decided that Thailands largest parliamentary party should be dissolved and its executives banned from politics for 10 years for breaching constitutional protections of the monarchy with a 2023 election campaign call to reform the royal defamation law, which criminalizes criticism of the monarchy, Thailand's top institution.

The party intended to weaken the monarchy making it the enemy of the people, the courts ruling said.

The court considers their actions antagonizing towards the [royal] institution, it added.

Move Forwards predecessor party, Future Forward, was disbanded by the same court in 2020.

Even with Future Forward barred, the Move Forward Party in recent years sustained efforts to amend the law which protects the monarchy from criticism and allows long jail terms and has seen dozens of democracy advocates charged and convicted in recent years for insulting or disparaging the Thai monarchy.

By now legally sidelining the Move Forward Party, the ruling on Wednesday effectively nullifies the votes of 14 million Thai citizens  in a country with a population of some 71 million.

Speaking to reporters later, a grim-faced Pita denied the party had set out to antagonize the monarchy.

You may be disappointed and angry, I understand you, let it all out today  tomorrow we will pass through it ... were not going to let it eat us up, he said.

We have to express our anger at the polling station instead of every election from here on out.

Many Thai observers expressed dismay.

This lost decade of Thai democracy continues, Khemthong Tonsakulrungruang, a constitutional scholar at Chulalongkorn University, told VOA.

This is now our new normal, he said.

International observers waded in on the dissolution of a party  which, with Pita in the lead - carried hopes of a democratic reset for a country worn down by a decade of government run by former generals - turned civilian politicians.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the U.S. was deeply concerned by a ruling which disenfranchises the more than 14 million Thais who voted for Move Forward.

Last years poll victory generally humiliated the older, better-funded conservative parties and spread anxiety among the establishment.

The voters ballots made clear in 2023 that dominant, establishment interests in Thailand could be at risk when younger Thai citizens got behind progressive policies proposed to reform the kingdoms monopolistic economy and top-down politics and dilute the power of the royalist army in the countrys politics.

Move Forward gradually, during the second half of 2023 and early 2024, was nudged into an opposition role by a conservative coalition and by senators appointed by the previous military-stacked government.

Then the party and its 43-year-old dynamic leader, Pita, a Harvard graduate, was besieged by legal cases. Wednesday's ruling obstructs and stalls the promising political career of Pita.

This is not justice

Many of the partys 144 lawmakers are expected to migrate within 60 days to a new party, which has been prepared in the event of dissolution.

Some in Move Forward, instead, may defect to the governing coalition, headed by Pheu Thai, the political vehicle of billionaire Thaksin Shinawatra, who at 75 remains at the center of the kingdoms politics.

The government, though, also faces potential upheaval in the weeks ahead.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a real estate tycoon who entered top-level politics at age 62, faces a court decision, scheduled next week, which could lead to his removal as government leader after barely a year.

The Constitutional Court is planning to rule on the consequences of Srettha appointing a key cabinet member with a checkered past. The cabinet member, in a chief of staff type role, resigned in May after a previous conviction re-emerged in public, disqualifying him from office.

The Constitutional Court has a history of banning Thai political parties, especially those that advocate for better, stronger democratic institutions in Thailand and which have rattled the conservative order for two decades with election wins.

This case is another example of blurring the line between legality and political preference, said Verapat Pariyawong, who teaches Thai law and politics at the University of Londons School of Oriental and African Studies, and advises The Parliamentary committees.

But I am not at all surprised given that such lines have been crossed so many times before, at the heavy price of weakening democracy, he told VOA.

Move Forward Party leaders have said ideas of reform are likely to remain relevant in Thailand and especially if political and economic stagnation settles in, likely alienating and frustrating another rising generation of young Thais.

Thailand, which has endured a coup detat, roughly every seven years since it dropped in 1932 absolute rule by kings, was led by Prayuth Chan-ocha from 2014 to 2024.

He seized power as army chief in a 2014 coup from the elected government, sparking a lost decade of slow growth, flat wages, delayed entry to the digital economy and slumping standards in education as well as a general smothering of free speech and dissent.

As the courts ruling condemned the party, Move Forward released a social media video with the tagline Unbreakable.

But some young Thais say they are now disillusioned by the chances of change.

Ive been prepared for this, but we just have to keep fighting, said Nannapas Chanphasit, 20, who said she voted in her first election last year and now feels her ballot has been voided.

But this is not justice. Many of my friends say they want to leave Thailand because in two, three years time, we will graduate and prospects for our lives here are bleak  High cost of living. Low pay. Just no future.
Tropical Storm Debby drenched coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina, submerging streets with waist-high floodwaters Tuesday in what is just the beginning of a prolonged storm that could dump staggering totals up to 64 centimeters (25 inches) of rain.

Charleston and Savannah took the first blow, with up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) of rain falling along the coast between the two cities in just over 24 hours. Police blocked all the roads into Charleston's 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.

In one Savannah neighborhood, firefighters used boats Tuesday afternoon to evacuate residents and waded in waist-deep floodwaters to deliver bottled water and supplies to others who refused to leave.

Resident Michael Jones said downpours sent water gushing into his home Monday evening, overturning his 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 to his home in a boat Tuesday morning.

"It was hell all night," Jones said. He added: "It was a struggle, but God is good."

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 hadn't had to do any high-water rescues and kept businesses and homes from unnecessary damage.

"We especially don't need any yahoos driving through the water and causing damage to properties," Cogswell said.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster said Debby hasn't yet been as bad as feared, but he warned residents 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 that up to 38 centimeters (15 inches) of rain could fall. Those totals are close to what the region saw in a historic flood from Hurricane Matthew in 2016. Two years later, rain and flooding from Hurricane Florence broke many of those records. Both storms killed dozens.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency Monday, and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin declared the same for his state on Tuesday.

The storm was expected to slowly move out to sea, then reverse and creep back onshore Thursday near Charleston.

Green Pond in rural Colleton County, South Carolina, reported the most rain so far from Debby with just over 36 centimeters (14 inches).

Close to 30 centimeters (12 inches) of rain was reported down the coast from Charleston to Savannah, where the National Weather Service reported 17 centimeters (6.68 inches) of rainfall just on Monday. That's a month's worth of rain in a single day: In August 2023, the city got 14.1 centimeters (5.56 inches) of rain.

Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane early 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.

About 500 people were rescued Monday from flooded homes in Sarasota, Florida, a beach city popular with tourists, the local police department said. Just north of Sarasota, Manatee County officials said 186 people were rescued.

State officials said it may be two weeks before staff can fully assess storm damage in parts of north central Florida, as they wait for river levels there to crest.

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.
The acting governor of Russias Kursk region declared a state of emergency Wednesday for an area bordering Ukraine where Russia said it was battling Ukrainian fighters on Russian territory.

Alexei Smirnovs emergency declaration came a day after what he said was a movement of Ukrainian troops and tanks into the Russian region.

It was not immediately clear what measures the emergency status would release, but several thousand people were reported to have been evacuated from the area.

A military blogger reported that fighting had reached the town of Sudzha, near where a Russian pipeline that supplies gas to Europe, via Ukraine, is located. Ukraine has agreed to keep the pipeline in Ukraine operational, as part of a contract that expires at the end of the year, The Guardian reported.

Ukraine hasnt commented on the reports.

In his daily evening address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not mention Kursk directly. Instead, he said, It is important to continue destroying our enemy  as precisely as our warriors can, and as resiliently as it contributes to the overall defense of our country, and as effectively as it produces results.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Ukraine had launched a large-scale provocation" into Russias Kursk region, but the extent of the fighting was unclear.

The Russian leader met with his defense and security officials and said that Kyivs forces had carried out "indiscriminate shelling of civilian" targets in a second day of fighting in the region along the southwestern border with Ukraine.

News outlets have not been able to verify Russias claims.

At the White House, John Kirby, the national security spokesman, said the administration had contacted Ukraine about what was happening.

The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War said it could not verify whether geolocated footage of damaged and abandoned armored vehicles 7 kilometers north of the border, west of Lyubimovka in the Kursk region, were Ukrainian.

The think tank also cast doubt on footage shared by Russian military bloggers claiming to show the aftermath of the Ukrainian raids. Most of the damage shown "appears to be the result of routine Ukrainian shelling and does not indicate that there was ground activity in the area," it said in its daily report.

Smirnov, the acting governor, urged residents to donate blood because of injuries in the fighting. He said Moscows forces have been heroically resisting attacks" by Ukrainian fighters.

The Russian Defense Ministry said Tuesday that up to 300 Ukrainian troops, supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armored combat vehicles, had crossed into Russia but suffered heavy losses.



It said Russian forces backed by artillery and warplanes "didn't allow the enemy to advance deeper into the territory of the Russian Federation." Ukrainian officials declined to comment, and open-source monitors have not been able to verify the Russian claims.



The Kursk region's border with Ukraine is 245 kilometers long, making it possible for saboteur groups to launch swift incursions and capture some ground before Russia deploys reinforcements.

Russias defense ministry said Wednesday it shot down four Ukrainian aerial drones over Kursk, a day after Russia said it repelled an attempt by hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers to breach the border region.

The defense ministry also said it destroyed three Ukrainian drones over the Belgorod region, two drones over Voronezh and two others over Rostov.

Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram that several apartment buildings were damaged, but there were no reported casualties.

The Ukrainian attacks also damaged apartment buildings in Voronezh, officials in the region said.

In Ukraines Mykolaiv region, Governor Vitaliy Kim said Ukrainian air defenses shot down 14 Russian aerial drones, with falling debris sparking several fires.

Serhiy Lysak, governor of the Dnipropetrovsk region, said on Telegram that Russian forces attacked with kamikaze drones and heavy artillery, damaging homes and several farm buildings.

Officials in the Khmelnytskyi and Vinnytsia regions also reported Wednesday that Ukrainian air defenses destroyed several Russian aerial drones.



Some information for this report came from Reuters and The Associated Press.
Dozens of ultra-Orthodox protesters broke into an Israeli army base near Tel Aviv on Tuesday, the military said, as demonstrations against call-up orders for religious Jews previously exempt from conscription continued to flare.

The demonstrations, which took place as Israel braced for an expected barrage of missiles from Iran, underscored the deep splits that have widened in Israeli society 10 months after the start of the war in Gaza.

The military condemned the incident at the Tel Hashomer base, which occurred after protesters managed to break in before being cleared by police.

"Breaking into a military base is a serious offense and is against the law. The IDF [Israel Defense Forces] condemns this violent behavior and insists that the protesters be brought to justice," the military said in a statement.

Video footage shared by the Israeli police showed dozens of men in the traditional black suits and hats worn by the ultra-Orthodox community confronting lines of police outside the base.

Israel's Supreme Court ordered the government in June to end a longstanding exemption and draft ultra-Orthodox Haredi seminary students into the military, over the bitter objections of the community and religious parties in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition.

The first call-up papers were sent out about two weeks ago, and the draftees are due to report to recruitment centers.

Draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews date back to the early days of the state of Israel, when the first prime minister, the Socialist David Ben-Gurion exempted about 400 students from military service so they could devote themselves to religious study. In so doing, Ben-Gurion hoped to keep alive sacred knowledge and traditions almost wiped out in the Nazi Holocaust.

At the time, the Haredim were a tiny minority, but the exemptions have become an increasing problem as the community has expanded to make up more than 13% of Israel's population, a proportion expected to reach around a third within 40 years due to a high birth rate.

The issue has simmered unresolved for decades, but the war in Gaza and the possibility of a wider war with Iran and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement in southern Lebanon has brought it into sharp focus.

"The enlistment of ultra-Orthodox citizens is an operational necessity and is being conducted in accordance with the law. The IDF is determined to continue advancing it," the military said.
The top U.S. presidential campaigns are focusing their efforts this week on events in several key states that will play a big role in determining who wins the November election.

Fresh off naming Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, Vice President Kamala Harris is traveling Wednesday to Wisconsin and Michigan, with other stops this week planned for Arizona and Nevada.

Senator JD Vance, the running mate of former President Donald Trump, is holding his own events Wednesday in Wisconsin and Michigan. Events in North Carolina set for later this week were postponed due to a tropical weather system moving through that area.

After announcing her choice Tuesday morning, Harris praised Walz at a rally later in Pennsylvania to kick off their campaign together.

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, Harris said.

Progressives had been rallying around the 60-year-old Walz, who championed policies to their liking as governor of Minnesota. The former U.S. Army National Guard member and teacher is also seen as appealing to rural, white voters.

Walz is a phenomenal pick, who will energize voters across the Midwest in must-win states like Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania, Democratic strategist Julie Roginsky told VOA.

In Walz, Democrats found a liberal who won rural conservative districts of Minnesota, who owns a gun, has military experience and was born in Nebraska, said Jennifer Lawless, professor of politics at the University of Virginia.

Walz is a a pretty safe pick, but certainly not boring, Lawless told VOA.

Hes somebody who understands Middle America and holds these progressive policies not because he's out of touch, but because he believes that this is the best way to move the country forward, she added.

An additional bonus: Walz is respected by unions, a strong point as Trump tries to make inroads with labor.

Incompetent liberal

Even before the Harris campaign formally announced Walz as her VP pick, the Trump campaign released a statement calling him an incompetent liberal.

Its no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate, Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. Walz is obsessed with spreading Californias dangerously liberal agenda far and wide.

A close contender for Harris VP pick was Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democratic rising star with strong approval ratings in a state key to electoral victory.

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, Shapiro posted on social media following the announcement.



Other figures considered by Harris included Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Trump named Vance as his running mate during the Republican Partys nominating convention last month. Walz recently raised his profile as an effective attack dog against the Republican ticket, calling them weird.

It just highlights how radical Kamala Harris is, Vance said Tuesday about Walz. This is a person who listened to the Hamas wing of her own party in selecting a nominee.

Harris quickly emerged as the Democratic candidate late last month after President Joe Biden announced he would no longer seek another term in office.

Bidens poll numbers sank following a poor performance in a debate against Trump in late June, which prompted calls for him to exit the race.

Chris Hannas contributed to this report. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press and Reuters
VLADIVOSTOK, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A light aircraft that went missing in Russia's far eastern Primorye Territory was found crashed, with two people confirmed dead, local media reported on Wednesday.

"Information was received from the Shkotovsky municipal district's unified duty dispatch service about the crash site located two kilometers from the village of Steklyanukha. Both the pilot and the passenger have died. Further information is being clarified," Russian's RIA Novosti news agency reported, citing local authorities.

The Bristell RGRA-5500G light-engine aircraft lost communication Tuesday near Mount Lysaya, approximately 30 kilometers from the Novorossiya landing site in the Primorye Territory.

The plane was en route from the Pushtisty landing site in the Sakhalin region to the Novorossiya landing site. A criminal investigation has been launched. 
Venezuela opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, who insists he is the rightful winner of the July 28 presidential election, failed to comply Wednesday with a Supreme Court summons ordering his appearance for an audit of the disputed July 28 vote.

The government-aligned National Electoral Council certified the vote for President Nicolas Maduro, securing him a third six-year term in office. The decision was rejected by the opposition and resulted in deadly protests.

The opposition also considers the Supreme Court in alignment with Maduros government.

The United States and several Latin American countries are among the nations that have recognized Gonzalez as the winner of the presidential vote and have called for Venezuelas election officials to publish their data. Election officials say they have handed over their tallies to the court.

The opposition says its own counts show that Gonzalez, a retired diplomat, was the resounding winner of the election.

The countrys highest court summoned all the presidential candidates and representatives of the parties that nominated them  including Gonzalez and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado  to appear before the court Wednesday for a certification of the election results.

In a Wednesday post on X, Gonzalez explained why he failed to appear: "If I go to the electoral chamber [of the Supreme Court] in these conditions, I will be totally vulnerable due to powerlessness and violation of due process and I will put at risk not only my freedom but, more importantly, the will of the Venezuelan people as they expressed on July 28.

"Citizen Nicolas Maduro ... has publicly stated ... that if I do not appear, I will incur legal responsibilities, and that if I appear and file copies" of voting records, "there will also be serious criminal responsibilities," he added.

"Is this an impartial procedure that respects the law? Am I condemned in advance?"

Like Gonzalez, Machado also did not appear in court. She remains in hiding and has said that she fears for her life.

Many of the countrys opposition leaders have chosen exile rather than face arrest and imprisonment in Venezuela.

Reuters reported that three groups who supported Gonzalezs campaign did, however, appear before the court Wednesday.

John Kirby, White House national security spokesperson, called Wednesday for Maduro to release his voting data immediately. Kirby said Gonzalez won the most votes based on evidence from the opposition, civil society and other observers.

Support for the opposition has grown, following years of economic mismanagement that has impoverished many Venezuelans, driving many to leave the country. Many poor and working-class Venezuelans who previously backed Maduros left-wing populist political ideology now support the opposition.
By Timothy Obiezu

Abuja, Nigeria While nationwide protests appeared to have ebbed Tuesday, the Nigerian government said it will not tolerate calls for coups after some protesters in northwest Kano and Kaduna states waved Russian flags while marching in the streets Monday.

Nigerias defense chiefs told journalists that hoisting the Russian flags amounts to treason.

"We will not relent in pursuing those that have continued to encourage unconstitutional takeover of government or subversion or those ones that are into vandalism or destruction of lives and property," Nigerian Defense Chief General Christopher Musa said.

Thousands in Nigeria took to the streets in Lagos, Abuja and elsewhere last week to denounce President Bola Tinubu's economic policies and government. Security officers cracked down hard on protesters, using tear gas and live ammunition. Amnesty International says at least 13 protesters were killed nationwide.

On Monday, hundreds of protesters marched in northern Kaduna and Kano states, waving Russian flags and calling for Russian President Vladimir Putin to come to their aid. Nigeria's national police said nearly 900 protesters were arrested, including 30 who were carrying Russian flags.

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Security analyst Kabiru Adamu criticized the military's interpretation of the protesters' intentions.

"There [are] instances where Nigerians do wave the flags of other countries, he said. So, one is a bit surprised with this interpretation. We're in a democratic setting, and the role of security and defense organizations does not go beyond law enforcement or the implementation of security policies. They do not have in any way the role of interpreting or making judicial pronouncements."

The Russian Embassy in Abuja on Monday distanced itself from protesters using the Russian flag and pledged Moscow's support for Nigeria's democracy. But Russia has been expanding its influence in Africa and forming security alliances, especially in the coup-ridden Sahel states.

Adamu, managing director of Beacon Security and Intelligence, said the acts of the protesters might be inspired by a growing resentment for Western influence in the region.

"The policies that are being implemented by the Bola Tinubu government have the backing of Western countries, especially the institutions of [the International Monetary Fund] and World Bank, he said.

So, when people in an organic manner endear themselves to Russia, it is perhaps an indication that they're not happy with the policies that were supported by those countries and Russia perhaps may be a better partner or ally."

Western nations, including the United States, have said Russia's influence in Africa could set back democratic norms.

But political affairs analyst Ahmed Buhari said good governance from local authorities is all that is needed.

"These people are not oblivious of the fact that there's a current wave across the Sahel, he said. They listen to the news. They can clearly see that Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso [have] presented very young leaders who are coming up with very strong policies that seemingly look like they're going to benefit the people.

And what I expect from the government of the day is to prove to the people that they're better friends to the people than any foreign ally at a time like this," he said.
MANILA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines tallied 128,834 dengue cases with 337 deaths since January this year, the country's Department of Health (DOH) said Wednesday.

Philippine health department Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said the number of dengue cases recorded from January to July 27 this year was 33 percent higher than that recorded in the same period last year.

Despite the higher number of cases, he said the number of dengue deaths from January to July was lower than in the same period last year.

"(The trend indicates) people seeking early consultation and hospitals doing better case management," Domingo said.

Domingo said four out of the country's 17 regions saw continuously increasing dengue cases in the past six weeks.

Philippine Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa urged Filipinos to continue searching and destroying containers that allow mosquitos to breed.

Dengue is endemic in the Philippines. Water-borne infectious diseases, including dengue, usually peak at the start of the rainy season from July to October due to fluctuating weather conditions, flooding, and accumulation of contaminated water.

Dengue mosquitos breed in stagnant water, like water-filled containers, and in some plants, such as bananas. 
TEGUCIGALPA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Honduras was once referred to as the "banana republic," which served as an "oasis" for unchecked American capital and a "cage" where local impoverished workers were trapped.

Looking back at history, the United States bears an undeniable responsibility for the long-standing poverty in countries like Honduras.

In 1870, an American captain named Lorenzo Baker brought a shipload of bananas from Jamaica and sold them in New Jersey. Since then, bananas have been one of the best-selling fruits in the United States. A large number of trading companies were set up, transporting bananas from Central America and the Caribbean to the United States.

In the early 20th century, U.S. corporations like Cuyamel Fruit Company obtained concessionary rights to vast lands in Honduras.

From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, with multiple armed interventions and instigated coups, American capital gradually gained control over the major economic sectors in Honduras. U.S. companies like Cuyamel Fruit Company occupied vast lands in the northern part of Honduras, constructing large-scale banana plantations. They also controlled vital economic sectors such as transportation, electricity and manufacturing.

By 1913, over 90 percent of Honduras' foreign trade was monopolized by the United States. Under the monopoly control of American multinational corporations, Honduras developed a highly concentrated economic structure centered around banana production, and became heavily reliant on imports for essential goods like food, resulting in a vulnerable economy.

"We must make a rupture in the fledgling economy of this country to increase its difficulties and facilitate our objectives. We must prolong its tragic, turbulent, and revolutionary life," H. V. Rolston, then vice president of Cuyamel Fruit Company, wrote in a letter in July 1920.

Estevan Elvir, now 91 years old, once worked on banana plantations in the Sula Valley in north Honduras. He recalled that American companies had complete control. Workers would receive their wages from Americans and spend it all in the company-operated stores.

Elvir said that working conditions there were extremely poor, with workers frequently subjected to beatings, and some even killed. "No one could renege or denounce because the manager had more power than the president of the Republic himself," he said.

In fact, the United Fruit Company once controlled the economic lifelines of several Central American countries. Through the operation of railway companies, the fruit company acquired vast lands along the rail lines and freely utilized local resources such as timber.

Eugenio Sosa, director of the National Institute of Statistics of Honduras, told Xinhua that "one of the promises of these companies is that they would build a national railway spanning the country, but they failed to fulfill it and only built a few branches. The railroad went no further and never managed to cross the entire country."

"The other characteristic is the influence that U.S. companies began to have in politics. They practically installed and removed presidents because several strong companies exercised control. If a company did not do well with the government, an armed group would be formed, sponsored by another government, and there would be electoral fraud, and the government would be overthrown, which, in this way, caused a lot of political instability," Sosa said.

In the early 1930s, the United States sought to expand its overseas markets. Previous "dollar diplomacy" and "big stick" policies had created strong anti-American sentiments in Latin America. To address this, the United States introduced the "Good Neighbor Policy," which, despite its claims of promoting "equality" and "non-interference," continued to exert control over the region.

Amid U.S. exploitation, plundering and interference, the people of Honduras never ceased to resist. Throughout the early 20th century, Honduran workers repeatedly went on strikes to demand higher wages and better working conditions.

Elvir recalled how striking workers were treated: "At best, they faced jail time; at worst, they disappeared. After four or five days, we'd find their bodies in the Ulua or Chamelecon rivers, weighed down with rocks or rails to keep them submerged."

In April 1954, dockworkers in Tela threatened to strike over wage issues. By May, workers from the mining, railway, textile and tobacco industries, along with banana plantation workers, farmers and small landowners in northern Honduras, joined the strike.

The massive strike lasted over 60 days, ultimately ending in victory as most of the workers' demands were met.

"The 1954 strike was our second independence after our declaration of independence in 1821," said Andres Alvarez, an 87-year-old retired Honduran train driver. "Before that, calling Honduras an independent and sovereign country was a lie," he said. "After the strike, our working conditions and benefits got a whole lot better."

Starting in 1975, the Honduran government canceled all concessions and contracts with American banana companies, and nationalized some of the lands the United States controlled. Honduras also took over American-controlled docks and railways, gaining control of banana production, transportation and sales. These steps marked the beginning of Honduras reclaiming its sovereignty and building its national economy.

"Our people's anti-imperialist struggle is historic and has been united with labor movements as well," former President Manuel Zelaya, also a presidential advisor, told Xinhua. "The struggle is where what we have today in Honduras comes from." 
Weekend of 10-11 August set to be Italy's hottest in 2024.

Italy faces the hottest weekend so far this summer, according to weather forecasters, with scorching temperatures expected from the north to the south of the country.

Temperatures will rise by a few degrees until Sunday, determining, most probably, the hottest weekend of 2024", meteorologist Lorenzo Tedici of ILMeteo.it website said on Tuesday.

"Between Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 August maximum temperatures of up to 39-40C are expected also in the north, particularly in Emilia Romagna" - Tedici said - "while in the south (especially in the internal areas of the main islands) it will rise again to 42-43C as in Libya and Tunisia".

The intense heat expected this weekend is set to ease in the days around Ferragosto, Italy's main summer holiday on 15 August.

This summer Rome has been urging tourists to download the Waidy Wow app which locates the nearest nasoni drinking fountains around the capital.

Italy has a 1500 telephone helpline active from 09.00 to 18.00 offer advice on how to manage the heat as well as information about social and health services available.

For heatwave updates in Italy see the health ministry website. Photo: Vereshchagin Dmitry / Shutterstock.com.
Child Benefit has now been paid in respect of 1,650 18-year-olds in Waterford for the very first time as changes to the payment are now in place.

Child Benefit is available to anyone across the country who is 18 and in full-time education, or who has a disability, up until their 19th birthday, and is paid at a rate of 140 per month.

To date, this measure has benefited over 58,000 young people in full-time education or with a disability.

I am delighted to see so many young people and their families in Waterford benefitting from this extension of child benefit, a vital support for hard working families," said Senator John Cummins.

This measure, which has now been successfully implemented by the Government, is making a tangible difference in the pockets of families throughout the county. Children in Waterford are starting primary school a bit later, at age 5, and many are also doing transition year in secondary school," he continued, "The extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds in full-time education or with a disability is a long-term improvement that will support all families across Waterford into the future."

In the case of a child who turned 18 after May 2023 and remains in full-time education, they will be eligible again from May 2024 until their 19th birthday. The parent or guardian does not need to reapply if the child is in full-time education and the Department holds a current education certificate.

If the education certificate expires before the 19th birthday, a new certificate will be issued to the parent or guardian, which must be completed and returned to resume Child Benefit payments.

In the case of a child that turns 18 after May 2024, Child Benefit will automatically be extended until the 19th birthday or the expiry date of the current certificate.

This change ensures that no child or family in Waterford misses out on the support they need during critical educational years, providing them with financial stability and peace of mind as they pursue their studies and prepare for the future. Senator Cummins concluded.
Vivienne Clarke

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has said that it was not good enough that something clearly a threat was not taken down for two days from a social media platform.

Ms McEntee told Newstalk Breakfast that a threat, whether it was online or in person, was illegal and should have been taken down immediately.

The threat against Taoiseach Simon Harris and his wife and children, posted on Instagram, had been absolutely appalling, she said.

The fact that this is online is no different to if someone had done it in person, in front of them, in a way that maybe we've been more used to in the past. It is absolutely appalling that anybody would think that they could threaten any person online.

Ms McEntee said that social media companies had a role to play in making sure that such content was removed as quickly as possible especially in cases where the content was clearly illegal.

There was ongoing engagement between the Gardai and social media companies, she said and the new online safety commissioner Coimisiun na Mean would also be involved and would have the teeth to ensure that social media companies were forced to comply to act immediately.

Later on RTE radios Morning Ireland, Ms McEntee said that the era of self regulation for social media companies was over.

We have now an online safety commissioner, one of the few countries to actually have an online safety commissioner. The sole focus and role would be to make sure that social media companies ,where there was harmful content, but also with illegal content, that it's taken down, that social media companies play their part and where they don't, that there are serious penalties imposed.

Coimisiun na Mean was working on a code of practice which should shortly be finalised and would be implemented by the end of the year.

This means that where social media companies are not compliant, where they're not engaging, very hefty and very serious fines can and will be applied. But it is important to say that irrespective of that and before those codes are finalised, gardai do work closely with social media companies. But I do think that we need to do more, and I do think that social media companies need to do more.
Tom Tuite

A theatre student accused of severely injuring a French man who suffered 14 kicks to his head in Galway city centre has been refused permission to leave the State temporarily to visit his ill father.

Bryan Hughes, 42, of Lower Salt Hill Road, Galway, was charged with causing serious harm to the man, who is in his 20s, on June 11th, last year on Dominick Street.

He had been allowed bail with conditions but brought an application to the High Court in Cloverhill, Dublin, to let him return to Canada for two weeks to see his father.

Mr Justice Paul Burns heard that the accused had dual Canadian and Irish citizenship. He came to Ireland three years ago and wished to remain to allow him travel.

The court heard he had been employed as a waiter but had completed an education programme, worked in the arts and obtained a place on a theatre course.

Mr Justice Burns heard the accused had been served with a book of evidence last week and was returned for trial to appear at Galway Circuit Criminal Court on October 7th next.

Mr Hughes said he was concerned he would not see his father, who has stage-four dementia, again, and his family would lodge 5,000 from his father's estate.

Objecting to the application, Detective Garda Enda Dowling told Mr Justice Burns the alleged injured party was a French national who sustained 14 or 15 kicks to the head.

He was in hospital in Ireland for three weeks before being repatriated and spending another nine months in a French hospital.

The court heard the man suffered serious injuries and had to learn how to walk and talk again.

Mr Justice Burns said the accused had the presumption of innocence, and he sympathized with the applicant due to his father's condition.

However, he noted the seriousness of the case and also said he was not impressed with the single-page medical evidence produced in court and refused the request to change the bail terms.
Tom Tuite

A teenage boy has been charged with making child sexual abuse videos at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin.

The 16-year-old, who cannot be identified because he is a minor, appeared at the Dublin Childrens Court on Wednesday and was granted bail pending a hearing next month to decide his trial venue.

He is accused of two offences under the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act.

He is accused of knowingly possessing two videos on his mobile phone at the National Aquatic Centre on a date in 2022 when he was aged 14.

The second charge alleged he produced them for the purpose of distribution, export, publication, sale or show.

Garda James Grogan told Judge Patricia Cronin that the schoolboy was charged in July following directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The court heard the teen made no reply to the charges after caution.

He was accompanied to court by his mother, was not required to address the court and has yet to make a plea. The DPP has recommended that the case stay in the Childrens Court.

Defence counsel Doireann McDonagh applied for an adjournment for the garda to provide disclosure of prosecution evidence.

Judge Cronin remanded the boy on bail to appear again in September for a jurisdiction hearing to decide if the case should remain in the Childrens Court or go to the Circuit Court, which has broader sentencing powers.

She said that because he was a juvenile, the case had to be dealt with as efficiently as possible, and the boy should not be before the court longer than necessary.

Facts will be heard at a later stage, and if he pleaded guilty, the case would still have to be put back again to get a pre-sentence probation report.

A later hearing date will be scheduled if he contests the charges.

There was no objection to bail, and the boy left court with his mother.

Parents, guardians, or a responsible adult must attend criminal proceedings with juvenile defendants unless they have been excused for a valid reason.

The Children Act also states, No report shall be published or included in a broadcast which reveals the name, address or school of any child concerned in the proceedings or includes any particulars likely to lead to the identification of any child concerned in the proceedings.
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.
Thats all from us for tonight, but we leave you with a nice story: about passionate Perth souls fostering community, reducing waste and combating living costs, all from one giant yellow shipping container.

The Collective Shed library of tools and things is now open: volunteer group The Vic Park Collectives most ambitious project.

The Collective Shed library of tools and things.

Its brimming with power and garden tools, and kitchen, craft and camping items, which for $40 or $60 a year an individual or a family respectively can loan for up to a week.

The Shed has cost $100,000 and 1000 volunteer hours; a crowdfunding campaign raised more than $40,000 seed funding and this grassroots support gave other donors and grantors the confidence to back the project.

The first items loaned were to local resident Rob, who borrowed a lawnmower and whipper snipper.

Next out the door was a Cricut Maker, a computer-controlled cutting machine.

The average power drill is used for about 20 minutes in its life, says Chairperson Jethro Sercombe.

When all of us buy all the things, its expensive, we create clutter in our lives and eventually, more rubbish.

Tool libraries are popping up all over the world.

Volunteers will open the library weekend mornings and Wednesdays. Info at www.collectiveshed.com.

Thats all from us for now; thanks for reading the blog today, and well see you back here in the morning.
KATHMANDU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province on Wednesday afternoon, with four bodies having been found, local police said.

"The helicopter belonging to Air Dynasty has crashed. We have found four dead bodies," Tilak Bharati, spokesperson for the district police, told Xinhua. 
Two isolated areas off the northern West Australian coast have three things in common: they are biodiversity hotspots; near vast gas fields; and they are viewed very differently by WA governments and their independent environment watchdog.

WA Premier Roger Cook faces a tough choice on Woodsides Browse project off the Kimberley coast, near Scott Reef, next year if the Environmental Protection Authority sticks with its preliminary view that Browse is environmentally unacceptable.

Beaches either side of the Gorgon jetty where turtles nest are being eroded. Credit: Bloomberg

He might want to consider how his predecessor Mark McGowans decision on Chevrons Gorgon project on Barrow Island has played out.

In 2006, the EPA identified five areas where Chevrons plans could not make the risk to the environment from Gorgon acceptably low, justifying its recommendation that the project did not proceed.
A quarter of bosses say they would not hire someone with bipolar disorder or depression, while the Albanese government has sat for a year on a national plan to combat mental health stigma in the workplace.

The 130-page document, seen by this masthead, calls on the government to introduce new laws to prevent vilification based on a persons mental health, and to stop insurance companies hiking fees on people living with a mental illness.

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler will meet his state counterparts later this month to discuss mental health reform. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

The authors handed their report to federal Health Minister Mark Butler in June 2023. He has yet to respond with the governments recommendations or release it publicly.

A source familiar with the strategy, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak publicly, accused the government of putting mental health in the too-hard basket.
Loading New options expected to be taken to the cabinet differ significantly from the larger amalgamation plan. They include a focus on partnerships that would preserve the independence of many hospital boards and chief executives, but allow more sharing of resources such as communications. Hospital budgets for the next financial year will be finalised within days, after complaints that the governments proposed funding for 2024-25 would force health services to find millions of dollars in savings and cut back on procedures such as planned surgeries. The states finances are under pressure, as the May budget predicted Victorias net debt would rise to $187.8 billion by June 2028, leaving taxpayers with a daily interest bill of $25 million. Support for the Allan government has also dipped to its lowest level in years, with a survey by Resolve Political Monitor  conducted exclusively for The Age  last month showing Labors primary vote had dropped 1 percentage point in the past two months and was just 27 per cent.

Opposition health spokeswoman Georgie Crozier said the government was panicking about community sentiment and the ongoing crisis across Victorias health system. The government has spent years developing their secret health services plan, and in the interests of transparency need to immediately release it, she said. One health service executive says there is strong opposition to merging regional services. Credit: Justin McManus One senior executive of a health service, who did not want to be identified because it could jeopardise his employment, said he had been told the Department of Health was putting its amalgamation plan on hold. The lack of communication regarding the health services plan is extremely frustrating, he said. The underlying principles were flawed, and the methodology was flawed. Hopefully, the minister will realise this and file it in the trash folder.

Another senior executive of a health service, who also did not want to be named to protect their employment, said it made sense to amalgamate some metropolitan services such as the Royal Melbourne, Peter MacCallum and Royal Womens hospitals. Dr Jill Tomlinson, the Victorian branch president of the Australian Medical Association. Credit: Luis Enrique Ascui But the executive said there was strong opposition to merging regional health services, as each had their own sovereignty. There is no way hospitals will close, but there is an opportunity to network better and share resources, they said. The executive said the process dragged for too long and had created anxiety.

Opposition health spokeswoman Georgie Crozier. Credit: Justin McManus Dr Jill Tomlinson, the Victorian branch president of Australian Medical Association, said mergers would not save money until years down the track. With the deep levels of concern in the health sector at the moment regarding budget uncertainty and fiscal constraint, it would be a very challenging time to introduce changes in the structure of the health services, she said. The possibility of amalgamations sparked protest campaigns in regional areas. Consultation over potential mergers occurred while the government was also in talks with hospitals about their draft budgets and reductions in spending. The Allan government has been given a report into the health services plan by the independent expert committee.

In June, Northern Health and Western Health announced hiring freezes as they struggled to rein in costs to meet financial targets. Three Labor MPs, speaking confidentially to detail private talks, said they had not yet been briefed on health service changes, but regional MPs had reported pushback from their communities. Three separate petitions have appeared over the past six months calling for amalgamations to be avoided. In May, Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas appeared to soften the ground for major changes when she said Victorias 76 health services were competing against each other and spending too much. Loading

We have more health services than the rest of Australia combined, Thomas said at the time. NSW has 16 or 17. Queensland is similar. One of the issues associated with that is ... variations in care that can compromise safety. The cost of local and agency staff has been increasing rapidly. And one of the reasons for that is weve got 76 health services competing against one another for staff. Some health services are spending way too much on consultancies and PR. In May, Mansfield Shire Council launched a hands off our hospital campaign demanding the state government avoid merging its health service. At the time, Mayor Steve Rabie said the council was concerned the local hospitals chief executive and board would be replaced by an advisory board in Shepparton.
Philadelphia: Republicans are gloating. They say Kamala Harris handed them a gift in picking Tim Walz as her vice presidential running mate.

On the one hand, the two-term Minnesota governor brings a lot to the Democratic ticket. His backstory as a retired Army National Guardsman, a former high school teacher and a football coach is central casting for election candidates.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential nominee, at a campaign rally on Tuesday. Credit: AP

He spent 12 years in the US Congress, repeatedly winning a conservative rural district that had elected only one Democrat since 1892.

And hes a genuinely nice guy, whose plain-speaking style went viral in recent weeks when he started referring to Donald Trump and his heir apparent, J.D. Vance, as weird  a description that has now become the catchcry of the Harris campaign.
BEIJING, Aug. 7 (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.

Noting that Egypt has an important position in China's overall diplomatic strategy, Wang said President el-Sisi's state visit to China in May was successful, during which the two heads of state laid out a blueprint for the development of bilateral ties.

China and Egypt should seize this opportunity to fully implement the important consensus reached by the two leaders, and work towards building a China-Egypt community with a shared future in the new era, said Wang.

Abdelatty noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Egypt comprehensive strategic partnership, and cooperation between the two sides in various fields is showing positive momentum.

Egypt is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and strengthen high-level exchanges, in a bid to elevate bilateral relations, display broader prospects, and bring more benefits to the people of both countries, he said.

The two sides also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East.

The Gaza conflict, which has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, is a focal point of concern for the international community, said Wang, adding that despite the United Nations Security Council's adoption of a ceasefire resolution, hostilities have yet to subside.

Wang said the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has pushed the regional situation into a more dangerous height, adding that 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.

Retaliatory violence leads to a vicious cycle, and responding to violence with violence only exacerbates tensions, said Wang, noting that double standards should not be applied to the crisis in Gaza, and China's position on the Palestinian issue has always been consistent and clear.

In response to the Gaza conflict, China has proposed a three-step initiative: achieving a comprehensive ceasefire, promoting post-war governance in Gaza under the principle of "the Palestinians governing Palestine," and effectively implementing the two-state solution, Wang noted.

He also pointed out that China will continue to stand on the side of international justice, strengthen solidarity with Arab countries, and work with all parties to avoid further escalation and deterioration of the situation.

Abdelatty expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in Gaza, emphasizing that the assassination of Haniyeh further complicates efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement and may even lead to a full-scale regional war.

The Middle East can no longer bear more conflict and instability, and the international community must work together to prevent further escalation of the situation in the region, he said.

Abdelatty noted that Egypt highly appreciates China's important role in promoting peace in the Middle East, and is grateful for China's efforts to promote internal reconciliation in Palestine.

The Egyptian side hopes to maintain close cooperation with China to prevent further escalation of the situation, he added. 
BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese central authorities have allocated more funds to help seven regions cope with the aftermath of serious floods and geological disasters.

A total of 465 million yuan (about 65.14 million U.S. dollars) of funds, jointly earmarked by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management, will be used to support disaster relief efforts in Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Hunan, Chongqing, Sichuan and Shaanxi.

The ministries urged local governments to properly resettle the affected people, minimize the disaster losses, and restore normal production and living order as soon as possible.

China has stepped up its emergency response and disaster relief efforts in the current flood season. Funds, relief materials and rescue workers have been continuously sent to flood-hit regions.

The national observatory on Wednesday morning forecasted rainstorms in central regions of Shanxi and Henan and warned of high geological disaster risk in Gansu in the next 24 hours. 
YANGON, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar's Ministry of Hotels and Tourism is hosting a photography competition in Yangon to mark the upcoming World Tourism Day 2024 in September, U Nanda Aung, director of the Directorate of Hotels and Tourism said on Wednesday.

Contest participants are required to submit their works from Aug. 5 to 23, focusing on Myanmar's tourism destinations as well as costumes and traditions of ethnic groups in the Southeast Asian country, he told Xinhua.

Winning photos will be put on display in celebrating the World Tourism Day 2024 on Sept. 27 in Nay Pyi Taw, where the awards will be presented. Additionally, these photos will serve promoting Myanmar's tourism industry, he said.

In addition to the photo contest, feature article and video clips competitions are also being held to mark the tourism day, he said. 
Weber State University announces 202425 theatre season

August 7, 2024

OGDEN, Utah  Weber State Universitys School of Performing Arts has announced its highly anticipated theatre season for the 202425 academic year. Featuring a captivating mix of classic tales, innovative storytelling and musical splendor, this season promises something special for every theatre enthusiast.

Alice by Heart

An enchanting journey inspired by Alice in Wonderland, exploring themes of loss, love and self-discovery, the show will run Oct. 45 and 912, 2024, at 7:30 p.m., with matinee performances Oct. 5 and 12 at 2 p.m.

Twelfth Night

William Shakespeares timeless comedy filled with mistaken identities, love triangles and festive revelry will run Nov. 89 and 1316, 2024, at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee performance Nov. 16 at 2 p.m.

Lerner & Loewes Brigadoon

A musical masterpiece that transports audiences to a mystical Scottish village appearing for only one day every hundred years, this show will run Feb. 2122 and Feb. 26 to March 1, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee performance March 1 at 2 p.m.

Innovation Theatre

Student-created works will showcase dynamic storytelling through song, movement, and collaboration April 45 and 912, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee performance April 12 at 2 p.m.

Our new season reflects the rich scope of versatility and talent within our student body, said Andrew Barratt Lewis, Theatre Program director. This years shows are certain to entertain, but also challenge and inspire both the performers and the audience. We invite the community and Weber State students to join us in celebrating the magic of live theatre and this season of surprises.

All performances will be held at the Val A. Browning Center on the Ogden campus. Season flex passes, which include eight tickets that can be used in any combination for all shows, are available for $115. Individual ticket prices are $18 for adults, $15 for children under 18, military members and senior citizens, $5 for WSU students, and $13 for groups of 10 or more patrons.

Individual tickets or flex passes can be purchased on the Telitha E. Lindquist College of Arts & Humanities events calendar.
Vietnamese missile frigate Tran Hung Dao arrives at a naval port in the city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 7, 2024. The frigate arrived here on Wednesday, marking the start of a five-day visit. During the visit, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies will organize ship tours, deck receptions, cultural exchanges, joint exercises, and other activities. (Photo by Wang Jian/Xinhua)

GUANGZHOU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Vietnamese missile frigate Tran Hung Dao arrived at a naval port in the city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province on Wednesday, marking the start of a five-day visit.

During the visit, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies will organize ship tours, deck receptions, cultural exchanges, joint exercises, and other activities.

The visit, conducted in accordance with the annual cooperation plan and consensus between China and Vietnam, is expected to enhance mutual understanding and trust between the Chinese and Vietnamese navies and further deepen friendship between the two sides. 

Vietnamese missile frigate Tran Hung Dao heads to a naval port in the city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 7, 2024. The frigate arrived here on Wednesday, marking the start of a five-day visit. During the visit, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies will organize ship tours, deck receptions, cultural exchanges, joint exercises, and other activities. (Photo by Wang Jian/Xinhua)

Vietnamese missile frigate Tran Hung Dao heads to a naval port in the city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 7, 2024. The frigate arrived here on Wednesday, marking the start of a five-day visit. During the visit, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies will organize ship tours, deck receptions, cultural exchanges, joint exercises, and other activities. (Photo by Wang Jian/Xinhua)

Vietnamese navies descend the gangway as Vietnamese missile frigate Tran Hung Dao arrives at a naval port in the city of Zhanjiang in south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 7, 2024. The frigate arrived here on Wednesday, marking the start of a five-day visit. During the visit, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies will organize ship tours, deck receptions, cultural exchanges, joint exercises, and other activities. (Photo by Wang Jian/Xinhua)
Work is underway to create four additional classrooms for the Educate Together National School in Castlebar.

The classrooms are to be located at the site of the former hat factory on the Newport Road in the county town.

Cllr Ger Deere said this is fantastic news for students and staff. The school has been operating out of three campus dotted around the town in Marsh House, Cavendish Lane, and the hat factory site.

Cllr Deere has learned that the Department of Education are leasing the hat factory for five years and while they await a new build, Castlebar Educate Together will have four classrooms at the hat factory in September. It is envisaged that by September 2025 the entire school will be located there.

A public meeting was called a few months ago to highlight the unsatisfactory and unsafe conditions that the school has had to operate under despite promises made to them some years back to have a stand alone facility built. The meeting heard how teachers and students must cope with damp, mouldy, and cramped conditions. Children have no adequate space in which to play and some siblings that attend the school have never been in the same building together as the school is forced to operate from three locations.

Cllr Deere complimented school principal Sarah Calvey, staff, board of management, parents, students and Minister of State Alan Dillon who, following a public meeting, organised a meeting with Education Minister Norma Foley and her officials and the school board of management to progress this project.
In the light of my reflections last week on the subject of priests changes, a reader both commends me for a column I wrote some months back and challenges me to comment on what he presents as a grim reality for priests (and people) in parishes now.

The column referred to by the eagle-eyed reader presented an unusual scenario that developed in a parish when a popular priest was replaced by a more lethargic, less focused individual and how that transition developed.

It went something like this.

The popular priest was said to tick all the boxes of expectation that his parishioners could possibly have hoped for. He visited the elderly on a regular basis. He was good with the youth. He was extraordinarily attentive to those in any kind of difficulty. He immersed himself in family-cum liturgical events like baptisms, weddings and funerals. His engagement with old and young was always appropriate and carefully measured. And, crucially, his sermons were invariably short and to the point. He was often described as a wonderful priest.

After many years he was moved to another parish and parishioners soon discovered that his successor had a less active, less engaged and more relaxed style. He rarely turned up at the youth club, because (he felt) he wanted to spend time trying to evangelise rather than entertain the young. He didnt visit the sick in hospital because that was the role of the hospital chaplain. He didnt visit homes in the parish because most people werent at home during the day. When someone asked him why he didnt attend parish functions he said he wasnt a peoples person.

Suddenly it dawned on the people that the active buoyant parish  orchestrated so deftly and for so long by their previous priest  was at risk from the style of the new incumbent. It became clear that unless there was a determined effort by parishioners to ensure that important services were sustained, parish life would become a pale shadow of what it once was.

The result was that, through the necessary intervention of committed parishioners, the parish not only sustained services which the people valued but there was a sense that the perceived style of their priest had become a blessing in disguise in that, no matter what priest was appointed to the parish in the future, the active participation of parishioners would sustain whatever services mattered to the people.

As I said, my reader liked the message represented by the tale of two priests. But, he indicated, there was a wider issue involved here and he challenged me to suggest a way of responding to it.

Most priests, he acknowledged, would happily accept the help of parishioners in providing services and in the running of parishes. Events had helped to convince priests of the wisdom of collaborative ministry in todays world. But there were exceptions and while the story of the lethargic priest (above) indicated that he was happy to facilitate parishioners involvement, a huge problem at present, my reader maintained, is that many priests will simply not allow anything to happen in their parishes that they dont want and some of them regard anything their predecessors introduced as the first practice to be culled.

My reader shared his experience with me.

In his parish a priest who has facilitated a wide-ranging lay involvement of his parishioners by delegating a series of pastoral challenges had created a very effective pastoral strategy over many years. This was evident in a full-time parish secretary, an active childrens liturgy group, a folk choir, a baptismal team, a finance committee, lay ministry to the sick and housebound as well as an active team of lay readers, Eucharistic ministers, a finance committee and stewards. Unfortunately, he was replaced by another priest who proceeded to undermine these initiatives one by one.

So the folk choir was replaced by congregational singing, which never really happened; the childrens liturgy group was replaced by Father visiting the school; the lay ministry to the housebound was replaced by expanding the First Friday visits; the baptismal team was summarily disbanded and the parish secretary voluntarily handed in her notice because she wasnt needed anymore.

Meetings of the Parish Council became paper exercises because the bishop insisted they were to hold them but the priest in his turn informed the members that canon law enshrined their consultative status. So in a short space of time the new priest had effectively reclaimed and reinstituted a una voce scenario whereby the PP had absolute control of every element of parish life. Thats the stark challenge represented by my reader.

Why does this happen? Three reasons, I suspect: (i) personality  some priests are authoritarian by nature, dogmatic in approach and at ease in Im the boss role; (ii) tradition/ culture  what Pope Francis calls clericalism, a long-established sense of entitlement in a role where the priest is king, where women are subservient and where lay people are regarded as second-class citizens; (iii) inability to change  a problematic vision of Church where everything remains the same forever and people are deemed to need predetermined spiritual guidance rather than ongoing education or authentic pastoral care.

What some priests dont seem to get is that many Catholics still want to be part of church, are very favourably disposed to priests who are happy to walk and work alongside them as equals in a respectful relationship of service but anything that smacks of control or authority or disrespect simple turns them off. No amount of pious words disguises disrespect. The simple truth is that what most people want now is a Peoples church not Fathers Church. In our present shape, anything else is both a betrayal of parishioners and a disservice to the Catholic Church.

I suspect that this is an issue that wont go away.
By Rebecca Black, PA

A Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency vehicle has been set alight in Co Antrim in a brazen attack.

The vehicle was parked on Main Street in Bushmills on Tuesday morning when two men wearing balaclavas approached.

Police said the men attacked the vehicle with weapons and smashed the windows.

The driver was ordered out of the vehicle before accelerant was thrown into the vehicle and set alight.

The two men, one wearing dark clothes and the other a grey tracksuit, made off on foot in the direction of Dundarave Park.

PSNI Detective Inspector Gareth Lavery said the driver was not injured but would be in shock after the incident.

This was a brazen and violent attack on this vehicle which is government property, he said.

This was in broad daylight in a busy Bushmills at the height of the tourism season.

This arson attack, which has destroyed this public vehicle, also put a number of nearby businesses and members of the public at risk should the fire have spread.

The driver, who was not injured, would understandably be in shock following this ordeal.

Our investigation is under way and we need the publics assistance. The area of Main Street would have been busy at this time and wed ask anyone who witnessed anything or has information on the two men, CCTV or dashcam footage to contact us on 101 quoting 481 06/08/24.
National Heritage Week 2024 takes place this year from 17th to 25th August 2024. A colourful range of events and projects celebrating all aspects of our heritage will take place across County Sligo.

Heritage Week is coordinated nationally by The Heritage Council in partnership with the Local Authority Heritage Teams and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. National Heritage Week has become one of Irelands largest cultural events, celebrating Irelands built, natural and cultural heritage and aiming to generate awareness, appreciation and preservation of our wonderful heritage resource.

The theme for National Heritage Week this year is Connections, Routes & Networks and invites us all to explore the links between heritage, people and communities, to look at what brings us together and what connects us.

National Heritage Week will also see the continued celebration of themed heritage days, when project organisers can develop specific themed activities. On Wild Child Day, The Heritage Council encourages kids and families to make the most of the outdoors to explore the heritage in their locality and beyond. This years Wild Child Day will take place on Saturday, 24th August.

Water Heritage Day will take place on Sunday, 25th August as a collaboration between The Heritage Council and the Local Authority Waters Programme. As an island nation, our history and heritage have been shaped by the sea and the great Irish rivers, lakes and wetlands. Water Heritage Day will highlight projects that celebrate water and our connections with it.

Its not too late to get involved in Heritage Week 2024. Events and completed digital projects can still be uploaded via the organisers portal at www.heritageweek.ie right up to the final day on Sunday 25th August. For those creating in-person events, you are encouraged to register your event as soon as possible to allow time for promotion of the event. For more details and inspiration see www.heritageweek.ie.

Launching National Heritage Week in Sligo, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr. Declan Bree outlined:

We are encouraging everyone to get involved and to support the efforts of the many individuals and groups who have organised events for National Heritage Week in County Sligo. The success of Heritage Week is wholly dependent on all the event organisers across the county, who are enthusiastic, committed and volunteer their time in order to make Heritage Week in Sligo the great success it is. Without their interest, hard work and voluntary commitment this week would not be possible.

Cllr. Donal Gilroy, Chair of Sligo Heritage Forum added:

Heritage Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate and share the best of Sligos built, natural and cultural heritage, whether it is attending a talk, going for a guided walk or visiting a local heritage site. This is just the beginning though. As most of the Heritage sites celebrated during Heritage Week are open all year-round. The museums of the County, many built heritage sites and wildlife areas are all there to be explored at any time. Want to find out more?

Updates and details of Heritage Week events nationally are available on www.heritageweek.ie. While regular Heritage Week updates for Sligo will be posted on the Sligo Heritage Office facebook page.
You are here: Business

An aerial drone photo taken on July 22, 2024 shows the railway port of Nanchang International Land Port in east China's Jiangxi Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's foreign trade hit a new high in the first seven months of this year, injecting impetus to the country's economic growth, official data showed Wednesday.



The goods trade volume expanded 6.2 percent year on year in yuan terms in the first seven months. Exports rose 6.7 percent year on year, while imports climbed 5.4 percent, according to the General Administration of Customs (GAC).

"China's economy has been running steadily since the beginning of this year, and the foreign trade has maintained a stable and positive momentum," said Lyu Daliang, director of the GAC's Department of Statistics and Analysis.

"The year-on-year growth of China's foreign trade maintained above 5 percent for the fourth consecutive month in July," Lyu added.

In U.S. dollar terms, the country's foreign trade in goods stood at 3.5 trillion dollars from January to July. Exports reached 2.01 trillion dollars, while imports hit 1.49 trillion dollars.

Trade surplus expanded by 7.9 percent year on year to 518 billion dollars during the seven-month period.

ASEAN remained China's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade volume reaching 3.92 trillion yuan in the first seven months, up 10.5 percent from a year ago, accounting for 15.8 percent of the country's total foreign trade. It was followed by the European Union with trade volume standing at 3.22 trillion yuan, the United States at 2.72 trillion yuan, and the Republic of Korea at 1.32 trillion yuan.

China's goods trade with countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative surged by 7.1 percent to 11.72 trillion yuan in the first seven months.

Mechanical and electrical products continued to dominate China's exports during the period, accounting for nearly 60 percent of the total.

Specifically, exports of automatic data processing equipment and components rose 11.6 percent year on year in the first seven months, integrated circuits increased by 25.8 percent and automobiles by 20.7 percent.

China aims to raise the volume and quality of foreign trade, boost imports of high-quality goods, and help foreign trade enterprises lower costs and boost efficiency, according to this year's government work report.
Rescuers transport building materials to reinforce a newly repaired dike in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Aug. 7, 2024. The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities. Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike. No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

SHENYANG, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after rescuers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

The dike breach, measuring 18.6 meters in length, occurred on Tuesday at the Wanghe River, a tributary of the Liaohe River, near Fanjiawopeng Village in the city of Tieling, due to rising water levels caused by continuous heavy rains.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. 

This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows emergency workers transporting building materials to reinforce a newly repaired dike in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province.

The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows emergency workers transporting building materials to reinforce a newly repaired dike in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province.

The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows emergency workers reinforcing a newly repaired dike in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province.

The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows emergency workers attempting to seal a dike breach in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province.

The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows emergency workers attempting to seal a dike breach in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province.

The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows emergency workers reinforcing a newly repaired dike in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province.

The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

This aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows emergency workers reinforcing a newly repaired dike in Tieling, northeast China's Liaoning Province.

The dike breach at a river in northeast China's Liaoning Province was sealed at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday after emergency workers had worked around the clock to repair it, according to local authorities.

Sun Huaijun, deputy director of the city's water resources bureau, said that over 130 emergency vehicles had been sent and more than 10,000 cubic meters of materials had been used to repair the dike.

No casualties have been reported, Sun added. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)
KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan's National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) said Wednesday that more than 3.2 million national electronic identity cards (IDs) have been distributed to Afghan citizens over the past 12 months.

Since taking over power in August 2021, the Afghan caretaker government has distributed over 7.8 million electronic IDs, NSIA's acting director general Faqir Mohammad Ziyar told a government meeting.

According to Ziyar, since the start of issuing electronic IDs in 2018, more than 13.8 million Afghans have got electronic IDs. 
Bacteria and plants could help clean up toxic waste from gold mines

Acid mine drainage, toxic water spilling from mines, ruins the environment and affects peoples health. Plants and bacteria could help clean it up.

Highly toxic metals are leaking out of nine abandoned mines in Krugersdorp, 32km west of Johannesburg, South Africa. The metals include uranium, arsenic, cadmium, chromium and mercury.

This acid mine drainage  when water mixes with heavy metals in mines and then flows out into the environment  poses grave health risks. It can percolate through the soil in large quantities and end up in the groundwater, or get into rivers.

Acid mine drainage also dries out on the surface and then blows around as toxic dust. It can cause serious illness including cancer, kidney failure and asthma.

We are chemists who have studied mine pollution for decades, and look for solutions to prevent environmental damage. Driving through Krugersdorp, weve seen children playing on the mine dumps. Weve also noticed dams in the area where people swim or hold baptisms. We decided to find a way for Krugersdorps mine dumps to be cleaned up.

We reviewed different acid mine drainage treatment technologies from around the world to determine which technologies would remove toxic metals and any other waste left behind after the removal. Our research concluded that a combination of existing treatments would be most effective in cleaning up the Krugersdorp sites. Specifically, using plants to suck the toxins up or bacteria to eat them.

This is the first time researchers have proposed some of the combinations of treatments to clean up acid mine drainage. This is significant because it means more toxic elements are being addressed and fewer are left behind.

Cleaning up

Together with a scientist from South Africas state-owned mineral research organisation, Mintek, we reviewed the existing clean-up methods and technologies.

We found that some available treatment technologies only treat certain pollutants and leave other toxic minerals behind. Others, when used for large scale cleanups, are very expensive and produce a lot of secondary waste (waste resulting from the treatment technologies), which then needs its own disposal process. This defeats the purpose.

We came to the conclusion that combining several technologies is the solution for Krugersdorps acid mine drainage.

One cleanup process is phytoremediation  when plants are grown on top of solid pollution and absorb toxins through their roots, removing them from the environment.

The other technology, developed by Mintek, is known as cloSURE. It uses anaerobic prokaryotic microorganisms  a type of bacteria that can grow in large quantities when oxygen is absent, for instance in lakes or manure. These tiny micro-organisms, when mixed with the acid mine drainage, remove all the metals and the sulfate from the waste.

Using both of these technologies in Krugersdorp would be effective for various reasons.

The cloSURE technology can treat acid mine drainage with high sulphate and metal content  the type of acid drainage in Krugersdorp. Meanwhile, the plant-based phytoremediation approach is very effective on solid dumps such as mine dumps because it can be grown over the mound, binding it together and preventing the waste from eroding and spreading out.

When both these technologies are applied in the same area, they will ensure that both liquid and solid mine waste is treated.

Finally, theyre also affordable technologies.

The government should put funds aside for this purpose, so that the residents are protected from the adverse effects of mine dumps which have existed for decades.

Whats polluting Krugersdorp

Gold mining began in Krugersdorp in 1887, over 100 years before South Africas National Environmental Management Act compelled mining companies to manage the waste they produced. The goal of acid mine drainage treatment is to produce treated water that can be reused in mining, irrigation, drinking or simply released back into the environment as clean water.

Before this law was enacted in 1998, mining wastewater was released into the environment without any treatment or management.

Krugersdorp communities, including farmers who use contaminated water downstream, have been affected by the acid mine drainage from the abandoned gold mines in the area.

We knew from our earlier research of the high concentrations of uranium, arsenic, cadmium, chromium and mercury (ranging between 0.3mg and 12mg per litre) in the soil of Krugersdorp mine dumps. These levels are far above the World Health Organizations allowed limits for these minerals in wastewater and soils.

The Krugersdorp mine dumps are in an open space and during the windy season in July and August every year, residents further away breathe in this contaminated air. The white particles from the mine dumps (normally carrying toxic elements) form a cloud of dust that can be seen kilometres away during windy days.

Our research also found that the Cradle of Humankinds calcium carbonate rocks are at risk from the untreated acid mine drainage. This is because the Tweelopiespruit stream drains out of the mining areas in Krugersdorp and runs through to the Cradle of Humankind, a world heritage site.

Its imperative that cleanup technologies address this major environmental and health risk.

What needs to happen next

The Krugersdorp gold mine waste needs to be cleaned up urgently by the government. The technologies weve suggested are well-suited and can work fast. If this is not treated now, the impact of the contaminated water and dust on the health of the people living in the area will be much more severe. Government needs to allocate large amounts of money to clean up the mine dumps and acid mine drainage.

Our research reveals just one of the innovative ways in which acid drainage can be addressed. But more needs to be done to tackle the issue more broadly.

Theres a need for scientists to come up with cheap and efficient adsorbents  solids that can suck pollutants out of an area, such as activated carbon.

Local governments should build small acid mine drainage treatment plants. These should pilot cleanup solutions to see which are viable.

We also recommend that a global app be set up which can select the best combinations of technologies to treat specific acid mine drainage spills. All the treatment technologies used successfully across the world should be added into the application.

Researchers also need to conduct more studies into the extent of acid mine drainage pollution in communities close to mines. This data can be used to urge the government to act hastily to treat acid mine drainage and prevent future disasters.

Finally, there are also other clean up technologies which are useful for recovering valuable rare earth elements, such as copper or silver, from the water. If these metals can be recovered and used again, this will reduce the stress on the environment caused by mining.

Dr Gebhu Ndlovu, head of the Hydrometallurgy Division at Mintek, co-authored the research that this article is based on.

Alseno Kagiso Mosai, Lecturer and Researcher in the Chemistry Department, University of Pretoria and Hlanganani Tutu, Professor in the School of Chemistry, University of the Witwatersrand

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Zondi residents seek arrest of Johannesburg Mayor and City Manager

CALS represents nine individuals who are calling for the arrest of city officials following continued non-compliance with a court order

The Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS) represents nine individuals who own property in the Zondi area of Soweto. The property owners have been unable to occupy their own land and have been charged rates and taxes despite their stands not being connected to basic services. It is not the first time the individuals are instituting contempt proceedings against officials at the City of Johannesburg.

In October 2017, nine individuals who own property in the Zondi area of Soweto first brought an application against the City of Johannesburg (the City) and the Johannesburg Property Company. These individuals all bought their properties under the Land Regularisation Programme between 2009 and 2014. The programme was meant to have been a revolutionary programme of releasing land that was no longer required by the City and recognised the importance of access to land and a home.

When our clients tried to have their stands connected to water services, they found that the City had not installed the necessary infrastructure and they were unable to build homes on their properties. In addition, the City started charging them for rates and taxes despite the fact that they were not connected to services and were unable to live on their own stands.

These nine men and women therefore approached the High Court in Johannesburg for relief, asking for an order declaring that the Citys conduct has been unconstitutional and to direct them to install the necessary infrastructure, as well as write off the rates and taxes they have been charged while they have no access to basic services. CALS was able to negotiate a settlement with the City of Johannesburg, which was later made an order of court in October 2018. This settlement was to the effect that the City would install the required infrastructure and that a special Council meeting would be convened in terms of the Municipal Structures Act to process the approval of the installations.

Unfortunately, in the years since, the City and its officials have failed time and again to honour that agreement. In December 2021, the High Court found that the City was in contempt of court for failing to comply with its earlier order. Despite this contempt order, the City has still not been able to comply nor honour its constitutional obligations.

CALS has thus had to return to court on behalf of our clients to ask that the Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, the Municipal Manager and a senior manager at the Johannesburg Property Company be imprisoned for contempt of court for up to one year. These officials were joined by the Court in 2021 in order to facilitate the implementation of the court orders. In addition, we are asking the Court to declare that the conduct in this case amounts to a neglect of constitutional obligations which is inconsistent with the Constitution and unlawful.

The City is responsible for providing basic services such as water, sanitation and electricity, says Thandeka Kathi, head of the Home, Land and Rural Democracy programme at CALS. The City has done nothing to fulfil its constitutional obligations for these residents of Zondi. There are many structural barriers to the ownership of land for many disenfranchised people in our country. Even when they do finally obtain it, the Municipality is not able to do its part to ensure that that land is sufficiently serviced.

Despite successfully arguing that the City is in contempt of court and has flouted their constitutional obligations, still nothing has been done. The conduct of the City officials is simply recalcitrant especially at the back of a contempt order, agrees Thuto Gabaphethe. Contempt of court undermines the rule of law. We cannot have a situation where officials are left to ignore orders of court and evade accountability. The matter has become a criminal issue and demands a criminal sanction in order for it to be taken seriously.

CALS is represented in the matter by in-house counsel Jatheen Bhima.

Read our founding papers in the matter here.

For inquiries, please contact:
MOSCOW, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Russian forces are continuing to fight Ukrainian units following Kiev's attack on Russia's Kursk region Tuesday, the Russian Defense Ministry said Wednesday.

The ministry said the fighting continued overnight in the areas of the Kursk region near the Russian-Ukrainian border, adding that Ukraine had lost up to 260 soldiers and 50 armored vehicles, as well as seven tanks, eight armored personnel carriers, three infantry fighting vehicles, and 31 armored combat vehicles.

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with government members Wednesday, where he said that Kiev had carried out "another large-scale provocation," and is conducting indiscriminate attacks with various weapons, targeting civilian buildings and residential areas.

Putin said that he would meet with law enforcement, defense and security officials on the situation in the Kursk region, adding that instructions had been given to ensure that all residents receive necessary assistance.

According to preliminary information, six people have died and 24 others, including six children, have been injured as a result of the attack, local media reported, citing health authorities.

Ukraine launched a massive attack on the defense positions in Russia's Kursk region at 8 a.m. local time (0500 GMT). Up to 300 soldiers from Ukraine's 22nd Mechanized Brigade, supported by 11 tanks and over 20 armored combat vehicles, attacked the Russian border defense positions near the settlements of Nikolaevo-Daryino and Oleshnya, the Russian Defense Ministry said Tuesday. 
This photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows the debris of a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province. Four Chinese passengers and the pilot were killed when a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province on Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Sulav Shrestha/Xinhua)

KATHMANDU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Four Chinese passengers and the pilot were killed when a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province on Wednesday afternoon.

"Five people onboard the helicopter including the pilot have been killed. We have collected all the dead bodies," Nepal Police spokesperson Dan Bahadur Karki told Xinhua.

The helicopter belonging to Nepal's Air Dynasty was flying from Kathmandu to Syafrubesi in Rasuwa district when it went down in Nuwakot's Shivapuri, Tilak Bharati, spokesperson for Nuwakot district police, told Xinhua.

The copter with four Chinese passengers aboard lost contact with the control tower in Kathmandu three minutes after taking off, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal said in a statement, noting it crashed at 13:54 local time.

The Chinese Embassy in Nepal confirmed that four Chinese nationals were killed in the accident. Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has expressed his sadness over the accident.

On July 24, a domestic plane crashed during take-off at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, leaving 18 dead and one injured. 

This photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows the debris of a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province. Four Chinese passengers and the pilot were killed when a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province on Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Sulav Shrestha/Xinhua)

People gather near the debris of a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province, Aug. 7, 2024. Four Chinese passengers and the pilot were killed when a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province on Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Sulav Shrestha/Xinhua)

People gather near the debris of a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province, Aug. 7, 2024. Four Chinese passengers and the pilot were killed when a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province on Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Sulav Shrestha/Xinhua)

This photo taken on Aug. 7, 2024 shows the debris of a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province. Four Chinese passengers and the pilot were killed when a helicopter crashed in Nuwakot district of Nepal's Bagmati province on Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Sulav Shrestha/Xinhua)
KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A total of 328 development projects at a cost of over 2.15 million U.S. dollars have been completed in east Afghanistan's Ghazni province, according to the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development on Wednesday.

The projects included rural roads, retaining walls, and water canals funded by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), the ministry said.

With these projects completed and put into operation, the living conditions of thousands of residents in Ghazni province have improved with job opportunities provided to hundreds of people, the ministry added.

The Afghan caretaker government has planned to launch more agricultural and infrastructure projects across the war-ravaged country, aimed at tackling economic challenges and creating job opportunities. 
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeepers patrol in Marjeyoun, Lebanon, Aug. 6, 2024. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

BEIRUT, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Fida Jaber, a 40-year-old woman, rushed to a store in the southern city of Nabatieh to purchase essential supplies in preparation for potential escalations in southern Lebanon.

"It seems that an escalation is inevitable. We must be alert and buy some daily necessities, including food, drink, and medicine, to get ready for the long and difficult days to come," said Jaber as she browsed the supermarket shelves.

Jaber mainly bought canned goods that could be stored without a refrigerator, as people may experience power outages during the war.

Amid the current rising tensions, citizens in many areas of Lebanon rushed to stores to buy goods, for fear of a large-scale war between Hezbollah and the Israeli army. They are also concerned about the potential closure of airports and seaports and a spike in prices as some merchants might exploit the situation.

Memories of the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel in July 2006 are still haunting the Lebanese, when Israel bombed Beirut's Rafik Hariri International Airport, putting it out of service, and imposed a strict blockade on seaports as soon as the war broke out.

Pharmacist Talal Al-Khatib told Xinhua that the demand for chronic medications has recently increased by about 40 percent, with patients buying enough for three to four months.

He noted that demand for baby formula milk and diapers has also risen by about 30 percent.

According to Mohamad Abou Haidar, director general of the Ministry of Economy, "the demand for consumer goods in major cities increased at the beginning of August by about 7 percent, but in remote villages, the increase is doubled."

However, he assured that "all consumer goods are secured as long as the sea crossings are open."

Meanwhile, Environment Minister Nasser Yassin said in a statement earlier this week that the stock of medicines, food, and oil is secure if the war expands. "Fuel is sufficient for about four weeks and food for three months," he said.

Hani Bohsali, head of the Syndicate of Food Importers, told Xinhua that goods are available in abundance, and there is no shortage of any kind.

"Even if the situation deteriorates, we have sufficient stock," he said.

Caution prevails in Lebanon following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, killing a 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's attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. 

Smoke caused by an Israeli airstrike rises in Kafr Kila, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)
This photo taken on Aug. 6, 2024 shows part of fossilized small dinosaur footprints discovered at the Linxia Global Geopark in the Hui Autonomous Prefecture of Linxia, northwest China's Gansu Province.(Xinhua/Cheng Nan)

LANZHOU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A set of five fossilized small dinosaur footprints from the Cretaceous period has been discovered in northwest China's Gansu Province, believed to be among the smallest known dinosaur tracks in the world.

Workers from a dinosaur museum in the Linxia Global Geopark in the Hui Autonomous Prefecture of Linxia found them inside the geopark in early August after continuous rainfall exposed the footprints on a weathered rock surface.

Each footprint measures approximately one to three cm in length.

Xing Lida, an associate professor at the China University of Geosciences (Beijing), noted that such footprints were first found in the country's Sichuan Basin and later discovered in Shandong Province and then the Republic of Korea.

The latest discovery in Linxia suggests a broader distribution of these tracks during the same period, which is significant to the study of biostratigraphy, geological ages and dinosaur diversity in these regions, said Xing.

Xing emphasized the discovery's scientific value, stating that it provides a new perspective on dinosaur miniaturization, a key step towards the evolution of birds.

Since the late 1990s, over 2,000 dinosaur footprints have been found in Linxia's Yongjing County, part of the geopark, known as the "Liujiaxia dinosaur footprint cluster."

You Wenze, the curator of the museum, said that the continuous discoveries based on strengthened protection in the geopark and the neighboring area not only enlarged the dinosaur footprint cluster, but also greatly enhanced the cultural and tourism value of the local area.

Xing explained that the new footprints indicate that the trace-makers were not fast-moving.

"The rock surface shows clear ripple marks, suggesting that the small dinosaurs were active near water, with many waterbird footprints found alongside them, forming a typical combination consistent with findings in other regions," he said.

These footprints not only reflect the habits and behaviors of dinosaurs but also shed light on their relationship with the environment, he added. 
FUZHOU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A soldier from Kinmen rescued in eastern Fujian Province in March returned home after the mainland side completed investigation procedures towards him.

The soldier surnamed Hu is one of the two individuals from Kinmen rescued from a trapped fishing boat due to a failed engine in Weitou Bay of Quanzhou in Fujian on March 18.

The other individual surnamed Wu, who was confirmed to be an ordinary resident, returned to Kinmen on March 23. Hu remained held by the mainland side for further investigation over doubts about his identity.

Hu returned to Kinmen accompanied by his family members and a legislator from Kinmen.

Hu had been taken good care of by mainland authorities and his family members had visited him during his stay on the mainland. 
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]

(Source: People's Daily Online)

Editor: Wang Shasha
Bid to reveal cost of policing King Charles and Prince Williams Wrexham visits rejected

This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Aug 7th, 2024

A bid to reveal the cost of policing recent visits by King Charles and Prince William to Wrexham has been rejected.

The King and Queen Consort came to the area in December 2022 as part of a celebration of Wrexham gaining city status.

They took in a number of sights during their visit, including a tour of Wrexham AFCs Racecourse Ground guided by owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

This was followed by a walk around the city centre, before attending a service at St Giles Parish Church.

Meanwhile, Prince William visited Wrexham on St Davids Day this year, when he poured a pint in The Turf with Rob McElhenney and also took a tour of All Saints Primary School in Gresford.

While the visits were welcomed by many, republican campaigners have long called for transparency over the associated policing costs.

Wrexham.com recently submitted an FOI request to North Wales Police in an attempt to reveal the cost of policing the visits.

However, the query was rejected by the regions police force, which claimed releasing such information would harm national security.

Picture shows a police outrider parked outside All Saints Primary School in Gresford during a visit by Prince William.

In its response, North Wales Police said: The release of information requested by the applicant would result in harm to the national security of the United Kingdom.

Releasing costs associated with the protection of the King would provide those intent on committing acts of terrorism with valuable information as to the level of resistance they might expect to counter when undertaking such an act.

Someone could reasonably infer comparable protection levels with other public figures whose receipt of protection is a matter of public record, namely the Prime Minister.

The costs of these protections remain undisclosed for the same reasons of national security, health and safety and law enforcement.

Disclosing the information sought would also give valuable tactical information to those who seek to harm such figures.

They later added: Whilst there is a public interest in the transparency of policing operations and providing assurance that the police service is appropriately and effectively engaging with the threat posed by a potential attack on a VIP, there is a very strong public interest in safeguarding both national security and the integrity of police operations in the highly sensitive area of personal protection.

The public interest is defined not as what the public might find interesting but there must be some tangible benefit to the public in the disclosure of the interest.

Despite this, a quick Google search shows a number of recent cases where police forces in the UK have confirmed the cost of local royal visits.

As per Manx Radio, an FOI to The Isle of Man Constabulary showed how a visit to the Isle of Man by the Queen Consort in March cost 101,463.

Meanwhile, a visit by Anne, Princess Royal, to companies in Durham and Seaham in late March saw the policing costs confirmed as 7,031.

This was reported by the Northern Echo following an FOI by activist group Republic UK.

The Guardian has previously noted its own battle to try and highlight security costs for members of the Royal Family.

Judges on an FOI tribunal refused the publications attempt to find out a combined figure for the cost of providing security for the royals between 2017 and 2020.

However, details of spending on policing big events such as the 3.4m paid for security for the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have readily been made available previously and widely reported on by the media.

Commenting further on why it has decided to take a different route to the police forces mentioned, North Wales Police said: In this case whether the outcome of request is confirmation or denial of who is in receipt of protection, the net result of publishing that information would be that a review would need to be conducted, plans changed to ensure that the threat level was effectively challenged and development of a new protection plan that would in all likelihood require additional resources to be provided and probably the extension of protection to those who had not been in receipt of it before the release of the requested information.

After weighing up the competing interests I have determined that to confirm or deny that we hold the requested information would not be in the public interest.

North Wales Police considers that the benefit that would result from the information being disclosed, does not outweigh the harm arising from disclosing information relating to who is provided with protection.
Plans approved to turn old registry office in Wrexham into aparthotel

This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Aug 7th, 2024

Plans to turn an old registry office in Wrexham city centre into an aparthotel have been approved in a bid to address a lack of tourist accommodation.

An application was submitted by Liverpool-based company the Happy Days Group earlier this year to convert the building on Chester Street into 13 serviced apartments.

It follows a sharp rise in the number of visitors to the area in recent years sparked by Wrexham AFCs Hollywood takeover and the popularity of the Welcome to Wrexham documentary.

Proposals were previously backed in 2018 to transform the Grade II-listed property, which is believed to date back to 1727, into residential apartments.

However, permission for the scheme has since lapsed, with the new aparthotel plans put forward in February.

A decision notice published on the Wrexham Council website shows the development has now been given the green light.

In a design and access statement, agents acting on behalf of the applicants said: This document has been produced on behalf of our client, the Happy Days Group, alongside the submission for the conversion an existing building into an aparthotel, including 13 units.

The request was made to solve several issues in the existing area, including a lack of hotels and apartments in the town centre.

The site is well connected to public transport as Wrexham Central Station is located within a ten-minute walk and the closest bus stop is within a five-minute walk.

As the site is located close to Wrexham town centre, it is ideal for tourism accommodation with multiple social amenities including bars, restaurants and shops.

The proposal will bring a listed building back into use, providing high quality tourism accommodation and a sense of place close to Wrexham town centre.

The plans show a mixture of one and two-bedroom apartments will be created across the three floors of the building.

The company said the scheme will provide a total of six jobs, with two full-time and four part-time roles.

It comes as recently published tourism data for 2023 shows the county borough of Wrexham experienced its strongest annual performance since records began.

The STEAM figures used by Welsh local authorities to measure tourism performance show total visitor numbers grew by 6.6 per cent, with just over two million people visiting the area last year.

However, while there was an 8.1 per cent increase in day visitors, overnight stays went up by just 1.3 per cent.

Commenting on the figures, Nigel Williams, Wrexham Councils lead member for the economy, said this was partly down to a lack of accommodation.

He said: Naturally, Wrexham has benefited more from overseas visitors in the last year thanks to the exposure afforded by the documentary.

I am pleased to see the development of Wrexham as a visitor destination with new investment in our city centre.

Some of this is addressing our shortage of overnight accommodation with exciting plans for the refurbishment of existing hotels and new city centre hotels in the pipeline, which will keep more of the tourism spend in Wrexham.

By Liam Randall  BBC Local Democracy Reporter
TOKYO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Despite persistent opposition at home and abroad, Japan on Wednesday started its eighth round of release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the Pacific Ocean.

Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the plant's operator, will discharge about 7,800 tons of wastewater from storage tanks into the Pacific Ocean until Aug. 25.

The Chinese Embassy in Japan on Wednesday expressed firm opposition to this irresponsible move of ocean discharge, noting that discharge concerns the health of all mankind, the global marine environment and the international public interests, and is by no means a private matter for Japan.

Without addressing the international community's concerns about the safety of such discharges, the long-term reliability of purification facility, and the effectiveness of monitoring arrangements, Japan's continued release of nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean shifts the risk of potential contamination to the whole world, a spokesperson for the embassy said.

The spokesperson called on the Japanese side to fully cooperate in setting up an independent international monitoring arrangement that remains effective in the long haul and has substantive participation of stakeholders.

Hit by a 9.0-magnitude earthquake and an ensuing tsunami on March 11, 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant suffered core meltdowns that released radiation, resulting in a level-7 nuclear accident, the highest on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale.

The plant has been generating a massive amount of water tainted with radioactive substances from cooling down nuclear fuel in reactor buildings. The contaminated water is now being stored in tanks at the nuclear plant.

Despite opposition from local fishermen, residents and the international community, ocean discharge of the Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water began in August 2023. 
In a cowardly and cynical attack on free speech, the Court of the University of St Andrews has discharged rector Stella Maris from her position as court president.

Maris, a Nigerian born 26-year-old, who was elected rector last year, has also been removed as a trustee of the university. A statement from the university court said the decision was made after the Rector repeatedly declined to accept the conclusion of an independent investigation which found that she had made some St Andrews students fear for their safety, and that she had breached her responsibilities and legal obligations as a Court member and trustee.

The statement hypocritically claimed the decision has no bearing on Ms Mariss freedom of speech. But, as Maris has made clear, she is being victimised because she has consistently opposed the genocide being carried out by the Israeli government, with full US and UK backing, in Gaza.

Maris told St Andrews student newspaper The Saint, I have been removed from University Court because I called for an end to Israels war crimes against Palestinians, and I will not apologise for doing so. As a young, neurodiverse Black woman with limited financial resources, I have faced the full force of the University, including a KC investigation, all because I made a statement supported by the overwhelming majority of students, calling for an end to a genocide.

Maris is being targeted because of an email she sent on November 21 last year, to all 10,000 St Andrews students calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. She wrote of the deep sorrow and collective humanity that bind us together in times of crisis following two vigils that had been held at the university, one honouring the lives lost in the largest massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust, the other following weeks of genocidal attacks by the Israeli government against Gaza.

Maris carefully worded statement, issued following consultation with a number of student groups, noted the common thread of humanity: the understanding that every loss, irrespective of identity, is a profound tragedy expressed in both vigils. She wrote of the staggering human toll which had already amounted to 13,000 people, mostly children and women along with 1.7 million Palestinians displaced while Palestinians remain trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings, as relentless bombardments, decimated infrastructure including roads, and lack of fuel due to the ongoing Israeli siege (continuous since 2007) prevent rescue workers from reaching them.

Maris urged students to continue to recognize and condemn acts that are internationally regarded as humanitarian and war crimes. These include practices such as apartheid, siege, illegal occupation and collective punishment, which have been observed in the treatment of Palestinians. She called for an understanding of the historical context of the current dynamics and resultant suffering, insisted my words are not intended to justify violence or dismiss the pain of any community and called for informed and compassionate dialogue.

The pains Maris took to offer understanding to all students, particularly Palestinian and Jewish, were ignored and an orchestrated campaign set in motion against her. An open letter claiming to be from 1,400 alumni, students, and friends of the University of St Andrews and given prominence in the right-wing Daily Telegraph, was launched, accusing her truthful account of reinforcing a certain narrative that drives violent antisemitism and calling for her resignation.

On November 24, the senior leadership of the University issued a statement which, after a pro-forma statement that the rector was entitled to freedom of speech, claimed Maris message, the language it used, and some of the sources it cited have caused alarm, division, and harm in our community, and more widely.

The statement demanded she take such action as is necessary to restore confidence in her leadership amongst all students, and the wider community. It was signed by Professor Dame Sally Mapstone, Principal and Vice-Chancellor and 10 others.

Mapstone is also the head of Universities UKthe body which represents Britains 141 universitiesand serves in a clutch of academic umbrella groups. In 2017, she was awarded a medal by US Foreign Policy Association of America for her leadership in higher education. In May this year, accompanied by the Union of Jewish Students, the Community Security Trust and the Jewish Chaplaincy, Mapstone attended a meeting with then Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to de-escalate the wave of anti-genocide protests in UK universities. Mapstone told Sky News, What we manifestly dont want to see is any kind of incidence of the sort of activity that we have seen on US campuses, which is so distressing.

Maris responded to the accusations made against her, I reject the notion that my email about the Israel-Palestine conflict was anti-semitic. In my email, I not only denounce anti-semitism but also clarify that opposing the actions of the Israeli government is not equivalent to anti-semitism.

Maris, a former student who spent three years as Rectors Assessor responsible for student welfare and inclusion, was backed by staff, students and signatories to another open letter which expressed sincere gratitude for your recent statement addressing the genocidal war in Gaza. Your call for a cease-fire, condemning the death of all civilians, and advocacy for the Palestinian people have not only demonstrated your commitment to peace but have also inspired a sense of pride in the St Andrews community.

In response, the university court sought cover by commissioning a report from Morag Ross KC to explore whether Maris was in breach of her obligations under the university courts code of conduct and as a charity trustee. Ross report, which the University Court has had for months, was finally released with their statement announcing the dismissal.

Despite much of the media presentation of the issue, Ross report does not call for Maris sacking. Instead, it notes repeatedly that even if the court considers obligations have been breached dismissal would be a disproportionate response. This applies to the initial statement, which Ross notes was a single issue and that [d]ivision in the University was not entirely due to the Statement. Dismissal would interfere with Ms Maris rights to freedom of expression in an unjustified way.

This also applies to a social media furore which erupted after the statement. In Ross view, while some of Maris social media messages were ill judged, they were not of the most serious kind and there was, in general terms, provocation from others. Ross makes the same remarks regarding Maris participation in anti-genocide protests, noting freedom of expression and freedom of assembly are protected rights. None of this mattered to the court, who dismissed Maris anyway.

Maris has made clear she intends to appeal the decision and fight on. She told the National, I believe I have been removed from University Court because I called for an end to Israels war crimes against Palestinians, which is why I will be appealing this decision... Only the court will be able to explain why theyve chosen to go further than the recommendations in the report, as I was not part of the discussions which led to this decision.

Another open letter calls for reinstatement signed by a large number of academics, public figures and human rights lawyers, including Aamer Anwar, a former rector of Glasgow University.

Maris has also been backed by Glasgow Universitys current rector, Professor Ghassan Abu-Sittah. Abu-Sittah, a former Glasgow University student, is a prominent British-Palestinian surgeon who has repeatedly offered his services in Gaza and other war zones. Returning from a trip to Gaza in November last year, he met with International Criminal Court investigators. In April this year, Abu-Sittah was banned from traveling to Germany where he intended to report on his terrible experiences.

Abu-Sittah said, The silencing of pro-Palestinian or anti-genocide voices is the reason why this genocide is still going on after 10 months. These institutions have been part of a system of genocide enablement that has emboldened the Israeli government in its attempts to erase the Palestinian people. Abu-Sittah was elected rector by an overwhelming majority of Glasgow University students in March this year.
Fugitive Ukrainian men of military age whose papers have expired are to be returned to Ukraine, according to the Hesse state government. A response from the Social Democratic Party-led Hesse state Ministry of Social Affairs, states this would be reasonable for them. Hesse is thus the first federal state in Germany to explicitly declare it wants to force Ukrainian men aged 18 and 60 to return to the war against Russia.

Honor guards carry the coffin of a Ukrainian serviceman during his funeral service on Independence square in Kiev, Ukraine, Friday, December 15, 2023. [AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka]

The official hypocrisy of the federal governmenta coalition of the Social Democrats (SPD), Liberal Democrats (FDP) and Greenscould not be more clearly exposed. Official propaganda is that Germany is standing by Ukraine to defend Western values such as democracy and human rights against an unprovoked attack by Putin. In reality, for the German bourgeoisie, the Ukrainian population is only good enough to be used as human materiel in the war against Russia.

Hesse immigration authorities will not issue Ukrainian men of military age with replacement German travel documents, writes the state Ministry of Social Affairs. It is reasonable for them to travel to Ukraine to obtain a passport and fulfil their compulsory military service.

With this letter, the Ministry of Social Affairs is responding to a spiteful parliamentary enquiry on the subject, which, significantly, originated from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). The government letter now states that the most recent EU decision of October 19, 2023, according to which, Ukrainian men fit for military service are not exempt from the granting of temporary protection, is being relied upon. Nevertheless, the men are to be forced back to the front: It is reasonable for them to fulfil compulsory military service.

Almost 20,000 Ukrainian men of all ages are registered in Hesse, around eight times as many as before the start of the war in Ukraine. This figure also includes children, young people and senior citizens. Almost 5,000 are in employment and paying social security contributions, i.e., they have a permanent job and are socially integrated; many also have families.

They could now be threatenedlike thousands of undocumented refugeeswith being dragged out of bed in a cloak-and-dagger operation and deported to Ukraine, where they would be immediately conscripted. For some time now, men of military age have no longer been able to have their Ukrainian papers renewed at the Consulate General in Frankfurt. Now the phrase it is reasonable for them confirms the German governments determination to become a direct agent of the Zelensky government and its notorious Ukrainian mobile detachments, which grab men off the streets and conscript them to the front.

The NATO proxy war in Ukraine was provoked by the West from the outset with the aim of defeating Russia militarily, dismembering it politically and exploiting it economically. NATO itself is increasingly openly a party to the war. In order to lead the offensive against Russia, it is setting up a NATO office in Ukraine and a NATO command in Germany. Long-range precision weapons are also being stationed in Germany again, including at the Wiesbaden base in the densely populated Main-Rhine region, jeopardising the lives of millions of people.

The war in Ukraine has now taken on the character of a war of attrition. Hundreds of thousands have already fallen victim to it on both sides, and new cannon fodder is being recruited using brutal methods. The Kiev puppet regime has ordered the mobilisation of a further 500,000 soldiers. Young people are being taken from gyms, restaurants, shopping centres and the streets and forced into the army, reports a correspondent for the WSWS.

Now the German authorities are coming to Zelenskys aid. The decision by the Hesse state government under Boris Rhein (Christian Democrat, CDU) and his Social Affairs Minister Heike Hofmann (SPD) is the next stage in the escalation of this war, which goes hand in hand with the abolition of basic democratic rights. The decision is only the first step in a nationwide attack on Ukrainian men living in Germany.

Heike Hofmann, Minister of Social Affairs and Deputy Chairwoman of the SPD parliamentary group in the Hesse state parliament, has been in close contact with Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD), who herself comes from Hesse. For more than 20 years, the two SPD politicians worked closely together in the Hesse state parliament, Faeser as the partys domestic policy spokesperson and Hofmann as its legal policy spokesperson. When Chancellor Scholz brought Nancy Faeser to Berlin as Federal Interior Minister, Heike Hofmann took over her position in the state parliament. In January 2024, she became Minister of Labour, Integration, Youth and Social Affairs in Boris Rheins cabinet.

Faeser repeatedly uses the Hesse state government as a battering ram to tear down social and democratic rights. For example, the coalition agreement of the Hesse CDU-SPD coalition, which Nancy Faeser played a key role in drafting, includes the requirement that immigrants and refugees must unconditionally recognise Israels right to exist. If anti-Semitic or extremist criminal offences or corresponding confirmed activities are identified, German citizenship may not be granted, whereby any criticism of Israel is considered anti-Semitic.

Faeser has now extended the same attacks to the federal territory. Hardly a week goes by without new bans and raids being carried out against people exercising their right to freedom of opinion or freedom of the press. The move against Ukrainian men in Hesse is just the first step in the nationwide deportation of refugees from Ukraine, forcing them to serve as cannon fodder on the Russian front.

The next step has already been announced. The German government is preparing to deploy troops itself. On June 12, 2024, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (SDP) presented his plan for a new military service (conscription). We have to be ready for war by 2029, said Pistorius. For a third time, young people are to be utilised in a major, European-wide and global war.

Workers in Germany must stand in defence of their class brothers and sisters in Ukraine. There is only one way to stop the threat of a third world war. The independent mobilisation of the international working class on the basis of a socialist programme that combines the struggle against war, social inequality and fascism with the struggle against their cause, capitalism.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (Social Democrats, SPD) tour of the Pacific can only be described as a world war mission. Pistorius used his numerous appearances, speeches and interviews in Hawaii, South Korea and the Philippines to underline Germanys new great power aspirations. While former SPD Minister of Defence Peter Struck declared in 2004 that Germanys security would also be defended in the Hindu Kush, 20 years later this apparently applies to the entire Indo-Pacific.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, right, hands over Germany's national flag at Camp Humphreys, the US military headquarters in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul, Friday, Aug. 2, 2024, during a ceremony where Germany officially joined the U.S.-led United Nations Command (UNC) in South Korea, becoming the 18th country to join the command. [AP Photo/Anthony Wallace]

Pistorius made no secret of the economic and geostrategic interests pursued by German imperialism. It is also of great importance for us and Europe as a whole that the region in the Indo-Pacific is stable. And that the rules-based international order also applies in the Indo-Pacific  and is observed and protected, he explained. Germany, Like other trading nations, is dependent on free and safe sea routes. Germany is dependent on the fact that international trade relations can be maintained and secured.

Significantly, Pistorius made his statements on the German warship Baden-Wurttemberg. The frigate took part in the US-led exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) together with the supply ship Frankfurt am Main, as well as parts of the Luftwaffe (three Eurofighter fighter jets and two A-400 M transport aircraft). With more than 25,000 soldiers from 29 nations and 40 ships, 3 submarines, 14 national land forces, over 150 aircraft and helicopters, it represents the worlds largest international naval exercise.

The exercise was a direct part of the US war preparations against China and was accordingly condemned by Beijing. The portrayal of China as a hypothetical adversary and the conduct of exercises with the goal of sinking the decommissioned amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa are intended as a clear strategic deterrent against China, said a commentary in the China Daily, published by the Communist Party of China.

During the manoeuvre, Pistorius himself provocatively declared that the intention is to remain in dialogue with China, but still position ourselves clearly where we stand. Where Berlin is positioning itself with the exercise and Pistorius journey is clear: on the side of the war offensive against China. Despite its still close economic ties to China, it has fully joined the US-led military march.

According to the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces), the participating armed forces trained a wide range of capabilities  from disaster relief to maritime security operations, from maritime control to complex warfare measures. The training plan included, among other things, amphibious operations, firing exercises, missile, anti-submarine and air defense exercises.

The growing presence of the Bundeswehr in the Indo-Pacific underlines how aggressively German imperialism is behaving again after defeat in two world wars and horrific crimes in the 20th century. Berlin is not only playing a leading role in the NATO offensive against Russia and in supporting Israels genocidal war in the Middle East, but also in the US preparations for war against China.

The Defence Ministers entire trip was aimed at pushing the confrontation with China to the extreme. Pistorius provocatively declared in South Korea that a German warship could soon pass through the Strait of Taiwan, claimed by China. In the course of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2024, the German Navy will also participate in the enforcement of sanctions against North Korea. Pistorius said that this is an important contribution to show that, This concerns us all. Because North Korea in particular is moving into the spotlight through its support of Russia in the war against Ukraine, in the undermining of sanctions against Russia.

In a further step, Berlin also joined the United Nations Command, which, led by the US military, monitors compliance with the ceasefire on the border between South and North Korea. In addition, Pistorius and his South Korean counterpart Shin Won-sik agreed to further expand the already good cooperation in the defence sector. We must deter from a position of strength, stressed Pistorius.

Pistorius and Won-sik backed the Statement of Principles for Indo-Pacific Defense Industrial Base Collaboration. It was unveiled by the US on the sidelines of this years Shangri-La dialogue in Singapore and coordinates the military buildup against China. This agreement will help the security and defence industries of the participating countries to work even more closely together so that we can better share industrial capacities, boasted Pistorius.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, from left, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., look at a souvenir as Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro looks on during their meeting at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024. [AP Photo/Ezra Acayan]

Pistorius also joined forces against China with his Philippine counterpart Gilberto Teodoro and Philippine President and dictators son Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  it was the first visit of a German defence minister to Manila  and agreed on closer military cooperation. In concrete terms, this means building long-term relations between the armed forces and learning from each other, as well as possible cooperation in the field of armaments, according to a report by the Ministry of Defence. Air defense, coastal protection, procurement of transport aircraft or training cooperations and expert discussions in the course of bilateral activities are conceivable here.

As with the war offensive against Russia, which stands in continuity with the Wehrmachts war of annihilation against the Soviet Union in World War II, German imperialism also draws on its dark traditions when forging a war alliance against China. Almost exactly 124 years ago, on July 27, 1900, Kaiser Wilhelm II gave his infamous anti-Chinese Hun speech in Bremerhaven, which was the prelude to a military intervention by the imperialist powers in China.

In bidding farewell to the German East Asian Expeditionary Force sent to brutally quell the Boxer Rebellion, Wilhelm II accused China of having overturned the law of nations; they have mocked the sacredness of the envoy, the duties of hospitality, in a way that is unheard of in world history. Then the German emperor issued the infamous threat that the name of the Germans in China, like that of the Huns in Europe, would be affirmed by you in such a way in China that no Chinese will ever again dare to look cross-eyed at a German.

During the Second World War, Nazi Germany was allied with Japan, which occupied large parts of China and committed terrible crimes against the civilian population there. Berlin is also reviving this alliance. Directly before the RIMPAC maneuver, the three Eurofighters and the two Luftwaffe transport aircraft held a joint exercise (Nippon Skies) with the Japanese air force. It was the first time ever that the German Air Force held a maneuver over Japan.

The renewed aggressive trumpeting of German imperialism will further escalate the situation in the region. The offensive of the imperialist powers under the leadership of Washington aims to subjugate China and reduce it back to the status of a semi-colony. Although this project risks a devastating third world war, German imperialisms ambition is to be at the forefront when it comes to the control and division of the resource-rich and geostrategically pivotal central region.

Like the war offensive against Russia, German intervention in the Indo-Pacific was prepared and planned well in advance. Already at the 2022 NATO summit in Madrid, NATO adopted a new strategy that explicitly aligned the military alliance with a comprehensive war against the nuclear powers Russia and China. And in September 2020, the Federal Foreign Office published its so-called Guidelines on the Indo-Pacific, which declare the region to be the key to shaping the international order in the 21st century.

The strategy paper explicitly formulated German imperialisms aspiration to assert its interests in the Far East, if necessary, by military means. The Himalayas and the Strait of Malacca may seem far away. But our prosperity and geopolitical influence in the coming decades will depend precisely on how we cooperate with the states of the Indo-Pacific, it stated. As a globally active trading nation, Germany can not afford to content itself with a spectators role with regard to military operations.
Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delivered a right-wing, pro-business speech at the annual Garma Festival in the Northern Territory (NT) on Saturday, depicting expanded corporate investment and the capitalist market as the means of overcoming the horrendous social conditions afflicting the majority of indigenous people.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Garma Festival, August 2024 [Photo: @AlboMP]

Garma, the largest indigenous gathering in the country, is presented as a cultural festival and an opportunity to discuss improving the plight of indigenous people.

In reality, it is a festival by and for a narrow Aboriginal elite. It is essentially a private event, run by the not-for-profit arm of leaders of the Gumatj clan who have close connections to government and substantial business interests.

Among the sponsors of the gathering is Rio Tinto. The British-Australian mining corporation, with a market capitalisation of $167 billion, has been accused of environmentally and socially destructive practices in Australia, as well as in impoverished countries.

Other sponsors are Qantas, Australias largest airline, and Telstra, the biggest telecommunications company, both of which have implemented mass sackings over recent years.

Notwithstanding the corporate largesse they receive, the organisers reportedly charge $2,750 for a ticket to the four-day festival and $5,000 for a corporate pass.

For business leaders and politicians, the festival is an opportunity to shed crocodile tears over the dire conditions afflicting the Aboriginal population and to cover their own responsibility.

This years festival occurred just days after the release of the annual Closing the Gap report by the governments Productivity Commission. Only five of the 19 areas of indigenous social progress were deemed to be on track with official targets, which are themselves woefully inadequate.

Indigenous life expectancy was still a decade lower than for non-Indigenous people. The indigenous incarceration and suicide rates had increased, and record numbers of Aboriginal children were being taken from their parents and placed in out of home care.

In his Garma speech, Albanese declared: No-one can defend the gaps in life expectancy, health, opportunity, education or justice as inevitable or acceptable, but Albanese has been the prime minister for over two years during which the Closing the Gap metrics have remained unchanged or worsened! He was a senior minister in the last Labor government in 2008 when it devised the Closing the Gap framework that has so manifestly failed.

The social programs outlined by Albanese, most already announced multiple times, were miserable. They include a plan to build up to 2,700 homes in the NT, which the government itself states would halve, not abolish overcrowding in a decade. According to figures cited by the Aboriginal Housing organisation, only 43.4 percent of indigenous-occupied dwellings in the Territory are big enough for the number of residents.

Albanese touted three new dialysis units in the NT as great progress, even while acknowledging that chronic kidney disease is twice as prevalent among indigenous communities and four times more likely to be fatal. The government was going to provide clean drinking water to several remote communities and planned to expand Internet connections, he said.

In fact, the Labor government is overseeing the worst reversal in working-class living standards in 50 years in a pro-business offensive that hits the most oppressed layers, such as Aborigines, the hardest. It has rejected calls for any substantial cost-of-living relief and is instead lowering tax rates for the wealthy, slashing social services and helping to fuel a speculative housing bubble.

State and territory Labor governments in office across the entire mainland are implementing a similar austerity offensive. In June, the NT Labor administration shut Darwins only joint residential rehab facility, detox unit and sobering up shelter to make way for a prison. Last month, it implemented a police-state style curfew in the town of Alice Springs over a handful of violent incidents fuelled by the acute social crisis.

The greater part of Albaneses speech was dedicated to his vision of a comprehensive economic policy for Indigenous peoples. Essentially, it consisted of boosting profit-making opportunities to the benefit of major corporations and the indigenous elite.

The government was setting up various consultative bodies, meaning investors and developers, companies and job-creators can directly contact communities.

Albanese noted that there were more than 270 native title bodies, some of which dont have the resources to engage in commercial negotiations. Equally, there are many companies that wouldnt know where to start, who to talk to or how to make a worthwhile agreement. The government would assist, bringing together business and Aboriginal leaders.

Under Native Title, indigenous representatives negotiate access to Aboriginal land to businesses, for a fee or royalty. Almost half of the NT, for instance, is subject to such arrangements. The consequence has been the enrichment of a small minority while the majority have continued to live in abject poverty.

Albanese referenced speaking to the late Gumatj clan leader Yunupingu at the 2022 Garma festival. Yunupingu was, until 2005, head of the Northern Land Council. In that position, he was reported to handle up to $50 million in royalties, especially from mining. Yunupingu lived in luxury, with multiple houses, maids, cars and helicopters, while most indigenous people continued to live in appalling poverty.

The polarisation has only deepened, with the latest stage being an official promotion of indigenous-owned businesses, which the Conversation reported in 2022 generated a combined revenue of $16 billion a year. Albanese crowed that he was lifting investment in Indigenous businesses and employers, all over the nation. Rewarding and incentivising wealth creation.

The suggestion that any of this will improve the lot of ordinary people is a version of trickle-down economics. Greater business investment and return will mean greater exploitation and a deeper social divide.

The Aboriginal elite is promoted by the government as a state and corporate-aligned layer that can help suppress the social aspirations and opposition of ordinary indigenous people. This milieu also has a critical role to play in furthering the program of militarism and war.

Albanese declared that new defence and security projects could help to unlock prosperity for Indigenous communities. His government is completing Australias transformation into a frontline state for a US-led war against China which centres on a massive militarisation, including through vastly expanded US basing arrangements.

The areas of focus, particularly the NT, have large Aboriginal populations, and while mostly shrouded in secrecy, it is known that some Native Title bodies have done deals to facilitate the war build-up. Albanese also raised the need for expanded mining of critical minerals under conditions where Australia is seeking to aid the US in undermining Chinese influence in this strategic economic sector.

Albaneses speech again underscored the right-wing character of Labors attempt last October to insert an Indigenous Voice to parliament in the Constitution. The Voice would have been a means of integrating even further the indigenous elite into the state structure to further the pro-business program Albanese outlined at Garma and the war plans.

Albanese and others at Garma bewailed the defeat of the Voice referendum, which has played a major role in the government crisis and was a setback to the indigenous elite. Proponents of the Voice have depicted the overwhelming no vote as a result of racism. In reality, broad sections of the population correctly doubted that the Voice would do anything to improve the lot of ordinary people, Aboriginal or otherwise.

That has been further underscored by the trajectory of its chief advocates.

Academic Marcia Langton, who authored a report that formed that basis of the Voice proposal, has combined frothing denunciations of the population as backward and racist with equally frothing support for the Israeli regimes genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. Her co-author, Tom Calma, accompanied Albanese on a pro-militarist visit to Washington last October and was given an audience with genocide Joe Biden.

Noel Pearson, another central Voice advocate, was appointed last week to the board of Fortescue, describing the mining conglomerate as a proud Australian company that is led by its values from mine site to boardroom.

In the wake of the Voice defeat, there have been bitter recriminations among its advocates and divisions have opened up. Some are angry that Albanese has now settled on a local truth-telling approach, backing away from a previous pledge to establish a Makarrata commission, which, like the Voice would have been an unelected body of the indigenous elite, and for a Treaty arrangement with this same grasping layer.

The divisions are tactical, with all sides committed to big business, their own selfish interests and a rabid racialism.

As the Socialist Equality Party insisted when it called for an active boycott of the Voice referendum, the oppression of indigenous people is a crime of capitalism and a class question. It can only be fought by uniting the entire working class, regardless of race, in a common struggle for a socialist alternative to the profit system and all its representatives.
The selection of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as the running mate for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has become the occasion for a full-scale propaganda campaign.

The corporate media, backed by Senator Bernie Sanders, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and pseudo-left groups like the Democratic Socialists of America, are portraying Walz as a progressive, even left-wing figure, in an attempt to bolster support for the Democratic Party, a party of Wall Street and the military-intelligence agencies.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz [Credit: AP Photo/Grant Schulte]

Walz was one of six on Harriss shortlist of potential vice presidential choices. These included Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, and three other governors: Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Andy Beshear of Kentucky and J.B. Pritzker of Illinois. Those in the group were politically interchangeable, all trusted servants of the ruling class, all supporters of US imperialisms war against Russia in Ukraine and its preparations for war against Iran and China.

Walz has already demonstrated his dedication to the defense of American imperialism. Before embarking on a political career, he spent 24 years in the Army National Guard (enlisting at age 17), rising to the top level for a non-commissioned officer, command sergeant major, specializing in field artillery.

In the course of 12 years in Congress and six as governor, Walz has compiled an absolutely conventional record as a right-wing capitalist politician. He served the agribusiness interests which dominated his rural southern Minnesota districtincluding giants like Cargill and Hormel. As governor, he did the bidding of the billion-dollar corporations headquartered in the Twin Cities, such as Target, 3M, General Mills, Best Buy, US Bancorp, Xcel Energy and United Health Care. When protests broke out in Minneapolis in 2020, after the police murder of George Floyd shocked the world, Walz sent in the National Guard.

His supposed progressive measures, such as making school breakfasts and lunches free, enacted last year after the Democrats gained control of both houses of the state legislature, were similar to the legislation pursued by the Biden administration during 20212022, when the Democrats controlled both houses of Congress. The reforms were entirely inadequate, a drop in the bucket compared to actual social needs, and pushed through only to buy time while the administration pursued its real priority, instigating and waging the proxy war against Russia in Ukraine.

When Harriss short list emerged publicly, however, the trade union apparatus immediately embraced Walz as their favorite. Shawn Fain of the UAW declared that Walz and Beshear were his top choices, while most other AFL-CIO unions endorsed Walz as the continuation of Bidens pro-union posturing. The union executives regarded Walz, a former public school teacher and member of the National Education Association, with close relations with the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), United Steelworkers (USW) and Teamsters, as the vice presidential hopeful most likely to provide them a seat at the table in deciding how to implement policies that will reduce the living standards, jobs and social benefits of the working class.

The supposed left of the Democratic Party likewise hailed the selection of Walz. Senator Bernie Sanders tweeted, Tim Walz is a great asset to Kamala Harris winning campaign & administration As governor, he delivered for working families in MN. In 2018, however, when Walz was running for governor, Sanders backed a candidate who attacked Walz as the most conservative Democrat in the three-way primary contest.

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, called the selection of Walz a watershed moment. The Democratic Party was moving back to its actual roots of a populist working class party, she claimed.

Ocasio-Cortez said that by picking Walz, Harris had united the entire Democratic Party, citing support for Walz from right-wing West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin. That really is no small feat, she claimed. I am trying to think about the last time Senator Manchin and I were on the same side of an issue, and its not common or often that you see that.

It is actually not hard to discover the last time Ocasio-Cortez and Manchina right-wing multimillionaire coal executivewere on the same side. Both voted for the $90 billion supplemental military spending bill passed by Congress in April, the sole significant legislation passed in 2024. The bill provided nearly $60 billion for the US-NATO proxy war in Ukraine and more than $10 billion for the Israeli genocide in Gaza, as well as more money for the US military buildup against China.

The Democratic Socialists of America, in a rare public statement, boasted of the Walz selection as a great achievement for its purportedbut hitherto invisiblecampaign against genocide in Gaza. The statement claimed:

Harris choosing Walz as a running mate has shown the world that DSA and our allies on the left are a force that cannot be ignored. Through collective action, DSA and the US left more broadly have made it clear that change is needed. DSA members organized in our workplaces and unions to realign the labor movement to support Palestinian liberation.

The statement merely demonstrates that the DSA is nothing but a faction of the Democratic Party, the left wing of imperialism and genocide. The Democratic Party, like the Republican Party, is unalterably committed to upholding the worldwide interests of American imperialism, which includes the use of Israel as its attack-dog in the Middle East.

But through such desperate pretenses, the DSA hopes to block working people and young people horrified by the genocide in Gaza from breaking with the Democratic Party and taking up a real fight against imperialist war and ethnic slaughter.

Far from representing any restriction on Israeli genocide in Gaza, the selection of Walz puts a second ferocious defender of Zionism on the Democratic presidential ticket. While in Congress, Walz served on the House Armed Services Committee, where he was privy to US war plans from 2007 through 2018, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Syria and elsewhere. He routinely voted to approve the massive US military subsidies to Israel, and visited Israel as part of a congressional delegation which met with Netanyahu.

There is one other aspect of the pro-Walz propaganda blitz which deserves mention: his characterization of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and his running mate, Senator J. D. Vance of Ohio, as weird, a description that has been embraced by virtually every prominent Democrat.

Walz explained, in an interview on CNNs State of the Union, that he chose the word to downplay the seriousness of the Trump-Vance threat to democracy. It was better, he said, to just ratchet down some of the, you know the scariness or whatever, and just name it what it is.

This is an effort to cover up the very real threat posed by Trump and the Republican Party, in line with the entire response of the Democratic Party to the January 6 fascistic coup. Opposition to the danger of fascism and authoritarianism cannot be waged through support for this right-wing party of Wall Street and imperialism, but only through the mobilization of the working class in opposition to both parties and the entire capitalist system.
Tensions are at a fever pitch throughout the Middle East amid the anticipated military retaliation by Iran and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia for Israels targeted assassinations of top Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut last week and, hours later, Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

Smoke rises after an Israeli strike in an area in Lebanon next to the border in the Galilee region, as seen from the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, Sunday, Aug. 4, 2024. [AP Photo/Leo Correa]

Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported that Haniyeh was killed by a strong blast caused by a short-range projectile fired from outside a house where he was staying during his visit to Iran. The IRGC warned that Israel would receive a strong punishment at the appropriate time, place and manner.

US President Biden met with senior national security officials on Monday [Washington time] to discuss the US response to impending Iranian retaliation against Israel. In a statement released after the briefing, Biden said: 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 US media has been at pains to highlight diplomatic efforts by the Biden administration to prevent the outbreak of a regional war. An article in the Washington Post headlined Washington and Arab states scramble to avert an all-out Middle East war claimed: The Biden administration is racing to avert an explosion of violence across the Middle East.

The article noted that US diplomats were seeking the support of Arab governments to put pressure on Iran to limit its response to the assassinations. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said yesterday, No one should escalate this conflict. Weve been engaged in intense diplomacy with allies and partners. This message, he declared, had been communicated directly to Iran and also Israel.

US imperialisms posturing as a moderating influence in the Middle East after backing Israels genocidal war in Gaza is utterly hypocritical. The Biden administration has politically backed and armed the Zionist regime, not just for its barbaric slaughter of tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza but also for its attacks inside Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and now Iran.

The Biden administration was informed in advance of Israels plan to kill Fuad Shukr and in all probability to assassinate Ismail Haniyeh. The US has not condemned either of these calculated provocations even though it knows full well that these criminal acts were calculated to provoke a wider war targeting Iran. Moreover, the murder of Haniyeh effectively puts an end to the Gaza ceasefire charade that the US claims to support.

In reality, the US is also preparing for a wider war. Our commitment to Israels security is ironclad, Blinken declared yesterday. We will continue to defend Israel against attacks from terrorist groups or their sponsors, just as well continue to defend our troops.

The US has positioned FA-18 fighter aircraft and a surveillance aircraft from the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier at an undisclosed base closer to Israel. A squadron of F-22 fighters has been dispatched from their home base in Alaska to bolster American firepower in the Middle East. US naval destroyers are also being moved into waters closer to Israel.

While US diplomats are supposedly scrambling to de-escalate, top American military officials are huddled with their Israeli counterparts over war plans. General Michael Kurilla, head of US Central Command, was in Israel on Monday for talks with military leadersa visit that was hailed by Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant as a direct translation of US support for Israel into action.

On Tuesday, Gallant spoke by phone with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austinthe fifth such call since a missile strike on July 28 killed a group of children in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Israel exploited the strike as a pretext for the two targeted assassinations, based on the unsubstantiated claim that Hezbollah launched the missile. Hezbollah denied any responsibility.

In a social media post, Gallant warned that the Israeli military was determined, consistent and powerful, repeating again that it was ready for offence and defence. The comment is a signal that the fascistic Israeli regime will respond to any retaliation by Tehran or Hezbollah with a further military escalation directed at its chief targetIran.

Israel pushed the region to the brink of war in April when it carried out an airstrike on the Iranian embassy complex in Damascus that killed top IRGC commanders. Iran responded with a barrage of some 300 drones and missiles targeting the airbase in Israel from where the attack on Beirut was launched. Israeli air defences along with US, British and French warplanes shot down most, but only because Iran had telegraphed the timing and scope of the attack in advance to Washington.

There is no guarantee that Tehran will do so again. The attack in April was on its consulate in Syria, which by international convention is regarded as Iranian territory. The assassination of Haniyeh in Tehran was a direct attack on Iranian soil.

While Iran is clearly not seeking a wider war, Israel is just as clearly seeking to provoke one. Far from de-escalating, the Zionist regime is continuing its genocidal war in Gaza and attacks inside Lebanon.

* The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that three schools sheltering internally displaced Palestinians in Gaza had been struck by the Israeli military in the past 48 hours. Mohammed Issa Abu Saada is the latest journalist to be killed by Israeli forces, raising the death toll of journalists in Gaza to 166. The official death toll of men, women and children in Gaza is approaching 40,000.

* The Israeli human rights group BTselem released a report on Monday based on first-hand testimonies confirming that Israel had established a network of more than a dozen prison facilities dedicated to the abuse of inmates. It stated: Such spaces, in which every inmate is intentionally condemned to severe, relentless pain and suffering, operate in fact as torture camps. It added that at least 60 prisoners, mostly Palestinians, had died in Israeli custody since October 7a figure likely to be a gross underestimate.

* Israeli attacks inside Lebanon include a strike on a building in the town of Mayfadoun, killing five Hezbollah fighters. Other towns attacked include Odaisseh, where one person was killed, and Khiam.

Israeli warplanes deliberately buzzed Beirut on Tuesday, flying low and setting off loud booms as they broke the sound barrier. The display of Israeli air power was clearly aimed not only at intimating residents, but also at taunting Hezbollah, whose chief Hassan Nasrallah declared it is obliged to respond to Israels killings of Haniyeh and Shukr.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened a cabinet National Security Committee meeting, followed by a full cabinet meeting and a media conference on Monday to announce the raising of Australias National Terrorism Threat Level from possible to probable.

Lifting the level to probable alleges that there is a greater than 50 percent chance of a terrorist attack or planning in the next 12 months. That level was last declared in 2014supposedly in response to the threat of the Islamic State in Iraqbefore being lowered to possible in 2022.

On the pretext of averting unsubstantiated threats of terrorism, the Labor government and the domestic political surveillance agency, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), are seeking to create an environment to use police-state powers to suppress mounting social and political disaffection.

The real anxiety in the ruling class is the collapsing support for the Labor government and the growing hostility toward the political establishment as a whole. This unrest is particularly driven by widespread working-class anger over the worsening cost-of-living crisis and the governments support for the US-armed Israeli genocide in Gaza, which has produced large demonstrations in Australia, as elsewhere.

Flanked by the ASIO chiefDirector-General of Security Mike Burgessand Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, Albanese denounced protests against the mass killings in Palestine, essentially conflating them with terrorism.

Albanese doubled down on his previous condemnations of anti-genocide protests outside parliamentarians offices. Its not appropriate for people to encourage some of the actions outside electorate offices and to dismiss them as being just part of the normal political process, he declared.

The prime minister demanded that because the temperature of the security environment is rising, we must lower the temperature of debate. He depicted the protests as threats to the national asset of social cohesion.

Australian Security chief Mike Burgess [Photo: ABC News screen capture]

Burgess spoke in even broader terms, saying politically-motivated violence had become a principal security concern and ASIO anticipated it would increase as polarisation, frustration and perceived injustices grow.

Burgess declared: Unfortunately, here and overseas, we are seeing spikes in political polarisation and intolerance, uncivil debate and unpeaceful protests. Anti-authority beliefs are growing. Trust in institutions is eroding. Provocative, inflammatory behaviours are being normalised.

The ASIO chief directly linked the discontent to the Gaza genocide, saying it had fuelled grievances, promoted protest, exacerbated division, undermined social cohesion and elevated intolerance.

Burgess said this would be inflamed by a wider war in the Middle Eastwhich the Israeli regime, backed by the Harris-Biden US administration, is seeking to instigate against Iran. An escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, particularly in southern Lebanon, would inflict further strain, aggravating tensions and potentially fuelling grievances, he stated.

Without providing any detail, Burgess asserted: More Australians are embracing a more diverse range of extreme ideologies and more Australians are willing to use violence to advance their cause.

He sought to connect this to terrorism, claiming that in the past four months there had been eight attacks or disruptions that have either involved alleged terrorism or have been investigated as potential acts of terrorism.

There was one revealing exchange when a journalist asked about exacerbating factors such as sustained economic hardship. Burgess said, the economic grievance or issue can be a driver for violence in this environment yes, it is a potential factor.

That points to the fears in ruling circles that the opposition to the genocide and the Labor governments underlying commitment to US militarism could be compounded by the intensifying unrest over declining working-class living conditions.

Raising the terrorism threat level will further activate vast ASIO and federal and state police powers of surveillance, intimidation and potential detention and questioning. These were introduced or expanded by barrages of anti-terrorism laws under the banner of the war on terrorism declared by the US and its allies following the still-unexplained 9/11 attacks in the US in 2001.

Burgess indicated that ASIO was targeting the internet, social media and the use of encryption. He depicted these as the primary platforms for radicalisation, effectively adding to calls for political censorship.

Despite the scare-mongering, there is no evidence of anti-genocide protests involving violence. As has always been the case historically, however, the police-state powers will be mobilised against left-wing and socialist parties, not the far-right groups like those fomenting anti-immigrant riots in Britain.

Making an appearance on the Australian Broadcasting Corporations 7.30 television program, Burgess made an unclear but calculated reference to ASIO investigating one person who included neo-Nazi references in a manifesto but allegedly joined Antifa, an anarchist group depicted in the corporate media as extremely left-wing.

Since it was established by the Chifley Labor government in 1949, ASIO has had a long and notorious record of surveillance, harassment, undercover infiltration, incitement and frame-ups against left-wing individuals and parties as well as alleged terrorist plotters.

The terror alert takes to a new level the desperate moves by Albanese and his senior ministers to falsely associate political protests, especially over the Gaza genocide, with violence and terrorism. Slogans and banners such as From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, have been demonised by the Labor government and Zionist groups as advocating terrorism.

Protest participants, including Jews denouncing the genocide, have been slandered as antisemitic and purveyors of hate speech for opposing a monumental war crime that has already killed at least 186,000 Palestinians according to estimates published in the respected medical journal, The Lancet.

In July, Albanese even linked the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump with the Gaza demonstrations, depicting them as a threat to democracy. The then Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil accused anti-genocide protesters of terrorising politicians and adopting the methods of despots.

Such charges, combined with inflammatory allegations of denying access to services and damaging buildings, represent the true assault on basic democratic rights. Already, state Labor governments have threatened the mass anti-genocide demonstrations while directing major police mobilisations against them, some of which have involved groundless arrests and police violence.

The actual terrorism is being perpetrated daily by the Israeli regime, armed and defended by the US and all the imperialist governments, including Albaneses. The massacres in homes, schools, hospitals, refugee camps and aid facilities are taking to a horrific new level decades of Zionist terrorism against the Palestinian population.

The Labor governments have combined their backing for, and assistance of, the Israeli genocide with supporting the escalating US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine and the related US-led confrontation with China. This is the real violencea drive for US global hegemony even at the potential expense of millions of lives in a nuclear conflagration.

This is a bipartisan corporate-backed agenda. Liberal-National opposition leader Peter Dutton greeted Mondays terror alert announcement by asserting that it was needed because anti-Semitism was occurring on a common basis in our country at an unprecedented level.

An editorial in yesterdays Australian, a Murdoch media flagship, demanded an indefinite resort to measures to suppress opposition to the genocide. For Australia, and much of the world, the elevated terror threat will be no passing phase, it insisted.

It is symptomatic of uglier, angrier societies in which divisions are sharpened by the sewer of social media. In the face of these factors, government and security authorities should not shy away from pointing out that the greatest threats are likely to arise from anti-Semitic Islamist extremism.

That must be taken as a warning of preparations for repression of dissent, including political frame-ups and arrests, as the US and its allies plunge humanity into war, and impose the burden on workers and youth amid already rising job losses and signs of global slump.
KHARTOUM, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- El Fasher, the capital city of North Darfur State in western Sudan has become "the most dangerous and worst place to live on earth" due to the deadly civil war, according to a non-governmental doctors' union.

"All residents of El Fasher may become dead, either from hunger, thirst, bullets, lack of health and medical services, or other repercussions of the ongoing conflict," the Preliminary Committee of the Sudanese Doctors Union said in its report released on Saturday.

The report on El Fasher said mass displacement has occurred as civilians flee to safer areas, while the use of heavy weapons inside residential neighborhoods has transformed the entire city into an operational zone.

The report accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allies of carrying out systematic, deliberate and continued bombardment of civilian neighborhoods and health facilities.

It is worth noting that both warring sides, RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have been accused of war crimes by human rights organizations, including deliberately targeting civilians and blocking humanitarian aid.

The committee called for an immediate and unconditional cessation of fighting in El Fasher, opening safe corridors to allow entry of humanitarian and medical aid to the city and stopping targeting civilians and civilian buildings.

The Director General of the Ministry of Health in North Darfur State, Ibrahim Khatir, described the report as "logical and objective."

"We agree with the content of the report. Definitely, the residents of El Fasher are dying from bullets, hunger, thirst and lack of treatment," Khatir told Xinhua.

Since May 10, fierce clashes have been raging in El Fasher, the last stronghold of the SAF in the western Darfur region.

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. 
Chinese central authorities have allocated more funds to help seven regions cope with the aftermath of serious floods and geological disasters.

A total of 465 million yuan (about 65.14 million U.S. dollars) of funds, jointly earmarked by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management, will be used to support disaster relief efforts in Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Hunan, Chongqing, Sichuan and Shaanxi.

The ministries urged local governments to properly resettle the affected people, minimize the disaster losses, and restore normal production and living order as soon as possible.

China has stepped up its emergency response and disaster relief efforts in the current flood season. Funds, relief materials and rescue workers have been continuously sent to flood-hit regions.

The national observatory on Wednesday morning forecasted rainstorms in central regions of Shanxi and Henan and warned of high geological disaster risk in Gansu in the next 24 hours.
RIYADH, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Walid al-Khuraiji stated on Wednesday that the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran was a violation of Iran's sovereignty and international law, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al-Khuraiji made these remarks during a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah. He emphasized that the assassination posed a threat to regional stability and peace.

He also condemned Israel for escalating violence against Palestinian civilians, calling for the international community to hold Israeli forces accountable for their actions.

Haniyeh, who had been invited to attend Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's swearing-in ceremony, was killed along with his bodyguard on July 31 when their residence in Tehran was hit, to which Iran vowed "a harsh and painful response." 
CAIRO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation on Wednesday directed the country's airlines to steer clear of Iranian airspace for three hours on Thursday morning due to an Iranian "military exercise."

The ban, effective from 0100 to 0400 GMT, aims to reduce risks to aviation safety, the ministry added.

This development comes amid heightened regional tensions in the Middle East. Iran and its allies have vowed to retaliate for the killings of Hamas Politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah senior military commander Fouad Shokor in Beirut, which both occurred last week.

Israel has claimed responsibility for Shokor's killing but has not commented on Haniyeh's assassination, which Hamas and Iran have blamed on Israel.

In mid-April, Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones at Israel in retaliation for an attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria earlier in the month, which killed seven Iranians, including two military commanders. Israel reported intercepting the majority of the missiles and drones. 
The owner of an Atlanta cookie shop made famous by the Real Housewives of Atlanta has shut down according to a video posted to social media by the shops owner.

In the video by Shiana White, she said as of Saturday, A Haute Cookie was officially closed.

Were putting everything on pause to be continued but as of now Atlanta has played its course, White said.

White made appearances on the show during Season 12, introduced to the cast by Kenya Moore. Her shop was next to Cynthia Baileys wine cellar.

According to The Jasmine Brand, She didnt just come on as the average friend of the show. During one of her handful of appearances  she confronted Tanya Sam and revealed that Tanya Sams longtime partner Paul Judge was trying to talk to and flirt with her when she saw him at a club one night. The ordeal turned into a dramatic storyline for Tanya Sam and led to a major fallout between her and Kenya Moore.

According to the website, A Haute Cookies mission was to create a luxe environment for customers to enjoy high-quality treats, with superior customer service. We are dedicated to providing sweets for every customer whether you are vegan, have gluten intolerance, or simply enjoy delicious, gourmet desserts.

TRENDING STORIES:

White said all orders had been stopped and will the shop not be accepting any more.

White told her followers that she was super-duper grateful for (the) people, operations, businesses, movie sets, all the love all, the support you guys have shown me since Day 1.

Completely, completely love you all. Ive got other places to go in life, but I appreciate this journey. It has been so beautiful, White said.

IN OTHER NEWS:
The front page of the Deseret News on Aug. 7, 1974, as Frenchman Philippe Petit tightrope-walked between the twin towers of the World Trade Center.

A look back at local, national and world events through Deseret News archives.

On Aug. 7, 1974, French high-wire artist Philippe Petit performed an unapproved tightrope walk between the two towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, over 1,300 feet above the ground.

Fifty years after that daredevil act, at the time called the artistic crime of the century, Petit will reportedly note the anniversary with several events in New York City Wednesday and Thursday, alongside his friend Sting.

Petit, then 24, of Nemours, France, captured the imagination of New Yorkers on Aug. 7, by cavorting across a wire slung between the World Trade Towers 110 stories above the streets. He and his support accomplices were arrested, but the charges were dropped in exchange for him performing for a group of children and onlookers three weeks later in Central Park.

Petit had done it before, notably unauthorized high-wire walks between the towers of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris in 1971 and of Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1973.

The event would be chronicled in the Academy Award-winning documentary film Man on Wire, a Sundance Film Festival winner in 2008.

Here are some stories from Deseret News archives on Petits career, and how he has handled his fame:

Danger of too much fun helps keep high-wire artist on his toes in walk to tower

High-wire artist plans series of U.S. walks

Thrilling Walk re-creates infamous high-wire stunt atop the World Trade Center towers

Film review: Man on Wire
Lisandro Alonsos first film in almost 10 years is also his second film starring Viggo Mortensen. Eureka, a time-spanning meditation on Indigenous communities, reunites the Argentine filmmaker with the star of his 2014 expressionist myth Jauja. And like that elliptical anti-Western about a Danish father and daughter on a colonial journey in Argentina, Eureka is another movie best pitched for the patient or for those attuned to, in the words of Varietys Guy Lodge, ambient pleasures. IndieWire shares the exclusive trailer for Eureka below ahead of its release from Film Movement in theaters this September. Watch below.

Heres the official synopsis, courtesy of Film Movement: Traversing time, space and genre, Argentinian filmmaker Lisandro Alonso (Jauja) presents an elliptical meditation on the experiences of Indigenous communities across the Americas. Opening in a dusty town of the Old West, reality soon transitions to contemporary South Dakotas Pine Ridge Reservation before finally landing in the jungles of 1970s Brazil. As the triptych unfolds, each temporal and spatial shift provokes metaphysical questions about colonial influence on native peoples and the ever-present tensions between indigeneity and the Western world. Featuring three-time Academy Award nominee Viggo Mortensen, Eureka is a graceful refraction of history and place, marking it Alonsos most expansive and ambitious film to date (Screen Anarchy).

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Eureka played the Busan, Cannes, Munich, New York, Rome, and San Francisco International Film Festivals dating back to 2023, among others. Jauja won the FIPRESCI award in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.

There is a sort of sensory perception, a feeling that through drifting downstream along the river course of this film and gazing at the foliage on either bank, some progress of the soul is being achieved. It is an enriching experience, The Guardians Peter Bradshaw wrote of Eureka.

Along with Mortensen, the cast of Eureka includes Chiara Mastroianni, Alaina Clifford, Sadie LaPointe, and Viilbjrk Malling Agger.

Watch the exclusive trailer for Eureka below.

Eureka opens in theaters from Film Movement on September 20.

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FILE - Arnel Pineda, Marco Mendoza, Jonathan Cain, and Neal Schon, of the band Journey, perform at Lollapalooza, July 31, 2021, at Grant Park in Chicago. (Photo by Rob Grabowski/Invision/AP, File)

DOVER, Del. (AP)  The rock band Journey has compiled an impressive list of hits over the past 50 years, but the song that might now be resonating the loudest for some band and crew members is Separate Ways.

The latest in a series of legal disputes with band founder and lead guitarist Neal Schon, longtime keyboardist Jonathan Cain is asking a Delaware judge to resolve a deadlock involving Freedom 2020, a company formed three years ago to oversee tour-related finances.

According to court filings, Schon is president of Freedom 2020, but he and Cain each holds a 50% stake in the company. In a petition filed last week, Cain said he and Schon fundamentally disagree on the management and operation of the company. He wants the court to appoint a custodian to act as an independent, deadlock-breaking director.

Cains attorneys also asked the judge to fast-track the case amid the bands current 50th Anniversary Freedom Tour, which concludes Nov. 17 in London. During a hearing Wednesday, Cain's attorney Sidney Liebesman told Vice Chancellor J. Travis Laster that the current situation is dysfunctional.

It is in crisis, Liebesman said. The damage is taking place during the tour.

Liebesman complained that Schon is wasting company assets and believes that, as president of Freedom 2020, he can do whatever he wants.

It is his self-interest that is driving his decision-making, Liebesman said.

In a court filing Monday, Schons attorneys said many of Cains allegations have no basis. They specifically rejected allegations that the tours production company and vendors werent being paid on time.

Petitioners allegations that the company faces imminent irreparable harm from a purported inability of the company to meet its financial obligations has no basis in fact, according to Schons attorneys, who will file a more complete response to Cains petition on Monday.

Our client denies that theres been any mismanagement, Schon's attorney Jack Yoskowitz told Laster, adding that any dysfunction has been caused by Cain acting in his own self-interest, including making allegations to the press that harm the band.

Laster scheduled a final hearing in the case to begin on Sept. 3, timed with Labor Day weekend, as sought by Cains attorneys. Schons attorneys sought a hearing in late September or early October, after the North American leg of the tour ends.

Cains attorneys say a quick resolution is needed because the deadlock has become a very much public battle that also has created a toxic internal environment during the tour.

Rather than focusing on the bands performances during a major international tour, the bands business manager, lead vocalist and crew members now find themselves caught in the middle of the directors disputes, afraid of performing their job responsibilities, and pressured to align with one director or another, they wrote.

Cains attorneys say the dispute also threatens the bands reputation, could negatively affect its fan base, and could further strain relationships with vendors and personnel.

Indeed, the band has lost multiple members of its crew because of such tensions over the past several months, they wrote, adding that the companys new business manager, its seventh, was hired two months ago.

Cain says Schons desire to take a $1.5 million advance from promoter AEG Presents LLC to cover tour expenses, and his opposition to Cain's proposal for a more modest advance of $500,000, has caused a major rift. He also accuses Schon of exorbitant and wasteful spending on hotels and airfare for band and crew members. Schon, for example, has ignored the company limit of $1,500 per night for hotel accommodations and has spent up to $10,000 per night for hotel rooms for him and his wife, according to Cain.

Cain also alleges that Schon allows crew members to stay in hotel rooms during tour stops in or near their home cities, and to fly in business class. Schon also has used the company credit card for personal expenses and incurred hundreds of thousands of dollars in costs for private jets for himself, his wife and various crew members, according to Cain.

The dispute also has even spilled over to creative differences, including Cains disagreement with Schons selection of a substitute drummer for a Toronto performance last week, and whether Cain should play rhythm guitar during performances of the 1978 song Wheel in the Sky."

"Even if that decision were within the scope of Freedom 2020s business, which seems highly doubtful, matters of song arrangement are objectively not a type of disagreement that threatens the company with irreparable harm," Schon's attorneys wrote.

The two band members have been at odds for several years. In 2022, for example, Schon sent a cease-and-desist letter after Cain performed the 1981 hit "Dont Stop Believin at former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate. Schon said Cain, whose wife was a spiritual adviser to Trump, had no right to use the Journey brand for politics. Cain countered that Schon was the one damaging the bands brand through his bullying tactics and reckless spending.
Kipling Puts a Spell on Its New Collection of Harry Potter-inspired Bags, Featuring Hogwarts House Emblems in Classic Designs

Kipling cast a magic spell on its forthcoming collection of bags. The Belgium brand created a new line of Harry Potter-inspired bags featuring Hogwarts house emblems embossed on the fabric of their classic silhouettes and designs. The collection is available on Kiplings official site on Aug. 21.

The Harry Potter collection takes classic styles from the Belgium brands house and adds the sigils of Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin in metallic Magical Black print. The collection features classic styles, including the Seoul backpack, Gabby S. crossbody bag, Creativity pouches and more.

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Kipling x Harry Potter

Along with the new collection of bags, Kipling also features its iconic monkey keychain collectible in multicolor designs with a scarf, which features the hues of each Hogwarts house in a striped style.

While certain classically designed Kipling bags gravitate toward the Magical Black print with shadowy Hogwarts house sigils included on the checkered designs, there are color motifs of each house featured on Kipling pouches.

Kipling x Harry Potter

Kipling was founded in 1987 by designer Xavier Kegels, Paul Van De Velde and Vincent Haverbeke. The Antwerp-based brand expanded to North America in 1989. By 2004, Kipling became a subsidiary of VF Corporation after broadening its global presence.

In 2023, Kipling capitalized on the Barbie movie, directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, with a collection of Barbie-inspired bags. Other collaborations include Hello Kitty and Illuminations Minions.

Kipling x Harry Potter

The Harry Potter property, which boasts a series of young adult novels, a film series adaptation, theme park, merchandise, forthcoming Max TV series and more, has been utilized by various brands for years. Within the past few years, Glamnetic press-on nails debuted a Harry Potter collection in September 2023, while Diff eyewear conjured a new collection in November 2021.

Launch Gallery: Kipling's 'Harry Potter'-Inspired Bags [PHOTOS]

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By day, its among the most spectacular historical sites in the Caribbean, a pilgrimage destination for fans of Johnny Cash, and the home of a championship golf course. Yet when the sun sets over Rose Hall Great House, the atmosphere shifts. Some staff refuse to venture out after dark, lest they fall foul of the shadowy figure spotted stalking the grounds on horseback.

The rider, according to eyewitnesses, is Annie Palmer. She is the White Witch, a 19th century plantation owner who murdered three of her husbands and terrorized the slaves of Rose Hall before she was killed in retribution, condemning her spirit to haunt the land where the White Witch Golf Course sits today.

Its Jamaicas most fabled duppy (ghost) story, a chilling bedtime tale whispered widely throughout the Caribbean. A cornerstone of tourism in Montego Bay, Palmers shadow stretches far and wide in popular culture, onto screen, stage, page and even song, courtesy of former local resident Cash.

The Man in Black would write music from within the grand old walls of Cinnamon Hill Great House, an 18th century estate just off the 14th fairway of the sites second golf course, including 1973 hit The Ballad of Annie Palmer.

At night I hear you riding, and I hear your lovers call, Cash sang, And I still can feel your presence round the Great House at Rose Hall.

Yet not all have been so spooked. Far from just contesting Palmers presence today, some have questioned whether she ever existed at all.

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Reign of terror

Keith Stein, director of golf operations at Rose Hall Developments, is familiar with the tale of Palmer.

The Canadian has seen it all since making the permanent switch from Toronto to Montego Bay in 1992, overseeing the construction of the White Witch championship course  18 holes of sloping green bordered by turquoise seas  before its grand opening in 2000.

Since the course opened, golf broadcasters have rubbed shoulders with a regular stream of camera crews looking to capture all manner of paranormal phenomena around Rose Hall, including for Ghost Hunters, which in 2010 sought evidence of Palmers lingering spirit. (Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, White Witchs sister circuit, has an equally eerie media history. The waterfall behind the 15th green served as the setting for Baron Samedis sacrificial voodoo ritual in 1973 James Bond classic Live and Let Die.)

But who was Palmer? The story, as recalled by Stein, goes as follows.

Born in Haiti to British parents in the early 1800s, Annie Mary Paterson was raised by a nanny who taught her voodoo  spiritual practices known as Obeah in Jamaica. Paterson moved to Jamaica after financial hardship, where she met and married John Palmer, the wealthy owner of the sprawling Rose Hall sugar cane plantation.

Though trees now block parts of the view, those who stood on the steps of the Great House during the 19th century could see perfectly to the coastline. - Rose Hall Developments

Annie supposedly murdered her husband to assume ownership of Rose Hall, which she went on to run with an iron fist. Palmer would sit on the balcony of her hilltop estate, which offered panoramic views of the 4,000-acre plantation. Should anyone be deemed to be shirking their duties, she would ride out on horseback to deal out punishment.

She terrorized her slaves, and she took men as she wanted to pleasure her, Stein said. If she saw people not working, she would whip them.

Palmers reign of terror lasted until 1834  the year slavery was formally abolished in the British colony  when she was killed by Takoo, one of her slaves, Stein added. (The machete murder is reenacted as part of the Great House interactive Night Tour, run four days a week.)

The hall was torched in the aftermath of Palmers demise, Stein continued, and lay decrepit for well over a century; its colossal husk left undisturbed save for the occasional group of intrepid local kids who would swing among its splintering rafters. Playtime ended in the 1960s, when Delaware businessman John Rollins bought the site and set about restoring the Great House to its former glory.

By the 1970s a restored Rose Hall was the centerpiece of a sprawling modern resort and residential complex. Yet old shadows still loom. Today, some club staff refuse to go out after nightfall, while others are reluctant to tend the course near the adjacent, centuries-old cemetery, revealed Stein, lest they have a run-in with Palmers ghost.

Its a spooky place  theres an eerie feeling that comes about you, Stein said. You do have this sense that overcomes you that something terrible has happened here in the past. You cant miss it.

Palmer's ghost is said to roam the fairways of the White Witch golf course on horseback. - Rose Hall Developments

Identity crisis

Benjamin Radford has built his career on going through eerie feelings with a fine-tooth comb.

The American author is a paranormal investigator and deputy editor of Skeptical Inquirer science magazine. Radford stumbled into an investigation of the Palmer haunting by chance. On holiday in Jamaica in 2006, he overheard mention of a ghost tour of Rose Hall and couldnt resist. Interest piqued, Radford returned for a second visit armed with days worth of research under his belt in order to conduct more rigorous testing of the guides account.

It was presented as a true story, said Radford, who published his investigation in a 2008 magazine and later a book. Now, of course, to any skeptic or journalist worth his or her salt, based on a true story are fighting words.

First on the agenda was an investigation into claimed encounters with Palmers spirit. This was the easy part  most in Rose Halls case were the flash of a camera reflected off glass or an object, he said.

Visual or physical encounters, such as one tourists claim to have felt a push from the White Witch, fell under a very wide variety of claimed phenomena and could be explained by a psychological concept dubbed priming, Radford, who has a bachelors degree in psychology, explained.

A collection of reported Palmer sightings and encounters on display at Rose Hall. - Benjamin Radford

Rose Hall is manicured, amazing, weird, cinematic and it has this bloody history, Radford said. So when people go there, they are primed to interpret any random thing  anything that cant be immediately explained  as being part of the ghost story.

As far as Radford is concerned, the beautiful but sadistic, voodoo-practicing Annie Palmer never lived. Instead, Palmer is simply an amalgam of fact and fiction that has snowballed into the legend told today.

He traced the origin of the Palmer tale to an 1830 account by an abolitionist called Reverend Waddell, who claimed a Mrs. Palmer was killed by slaves at the nearby Palmyra estate.

One visitor's claimed sighting from 1993. - Benjamin Radford

In 1868, gossip was enshrined in print courtesy of a pamphlet published by James Castello, who described Palmers murder of her first two husbands  both via poisoning. Then, in 1929, the legend grew with Herbert G. de Lissers novel The White Witch of Rosehall, that bestowed upon Palmer her moniker, added the murder of a third husband, and further blurred the lines between truth and fiction.

Geoffrey S. Yates, an assistant archivist at the Jamaica Archives in the mid-20th century, along with other historians, has argued that Annie Palmer may have been confused with Rosa Palmer (Kelly), the original mistress of Rose Hall, who died in 1790, 12 years before Annie Palmer (nee Paterson) was born.

Paterson married the grand-nephew of Rose Halls original owner, possessed no slaves when she sold her rights to Rose Hall in 1830, before dying in the Jamaican hamlet of Bonavista in 1846, Yates wrote.

Categorically neither woman was murdered by slaves like the purported sinister beauty Palmer, he added, and there was no evidence that either of them was involved in debauchery or unnatural cruelty.

Endurance

Yet for Radford, unpicking the facts behind the Palmer legend is less intriguing than how it was spread and sustained. Just why has the tale of the White Witch proved so widespread that he is yet to meet a Jamaican who does not know it?

Radford is not short on theories. For one, theres a long tradition of loving terrible villains, he said. Its a tale embellished by taboo tropes  sex, death, voodoo  and black magic  common in Caribbean folklore. He also argued Palmers arrival, terror, and demise fits in perfectly with Jamaican history, loosely mirroring the era of British rule and its slave trade, before its eventual abolition.

Shes explicitly a transplant, Radford said. Shes a White woman  a rich, powerful, cruel, sadistic White woman  that represents the slave-owning class at the time.

Such stories are also self-perpetuating, Radford added, with tourists and ghost hunters continuing to flock to the site, generating their own paranormal evidence and thus preserving the legend.

The Cinnamon Hill course straddles the coastline. - Rose Hall Developments

But the bottom line is stoking the legend is good for Rose Halls bottom line.

It comes pre-packaged with the place, said Radford. If you run a boat shop in Inverness, why would you not run Nessie boat tours? For the halls owners and operators, its just not in their best interest to look at it too closely (with skepticism)  that would be the way I would put it.

Make no mistake: ghosts aside, Rose Hall has weathered hard times. Once a flourishing spot for tourism and real estate, Montego Bay was rocked by the 2008 financial crisis, Stein recalled. The White Witch course  which had cost some $8.5 million to build  was forced into contingency planning, but rebounded over the subsequent decade.

Things were looking up until the Covid-19 pandemic began, costing the site millions of dollars, according to Stein. He calculated that the majority of the courses revenue came during tourist season, from November to April, and the course, to this day, remains opens only during those months to help meet running costs.

Montego Bay remains a hub for Jamaican tourism, and though tours of Cashs former residence generate significant footfall, it is the enduring allure of the White Witch that drives interest in the area.

Its another case of where the legend has been co-opted by different people for different purposes, Radford concluded.

Reverend Waddell co-opted the legend in support of trying to end slavery; the Rose Hall owners at different times have co-opted the legend to promote tourism; the locals have co-opted the legend as one of many dubious and scary things to be afraid of at night, so it fits in perfectly.

If there wasnt an Annie Palmer, someone would have had to make her up.

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The 72nd San Sebastian Film Festival has rolled out the Latin American features in its Work in Progress (WIP) Latam section. This years selection, announced Wednesday, features stories from Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Colombia, and Costa Rica, with four of the six entries being directorial debuts or sophomore efforts.

Among the notable entries is The Message by Argentinian filmmaker Ivan Fund, who returns to San Sebastian after his previous success with Dusk Stone (2021). The film, a road movie set in the Argentinian countryside, stars Marcelo Subiotto, who won the Silver Shell for best lead performance in San Sebastian last year with Puan.

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Uruguayan actor-turned-director Daniel Hendler will return to the festival for the fifth time with the border drama A Loose End. Chilean director Nayra Ilics coming-of-age story Cuerpo Celeste, and Argentinian Paula Morel Kristofs debut feature Muna Muna also join the lineup.

Rounding out the selection are two first-time feature directors: Colombias Simon Velez with Gemstones, a tale of gemstone theft, and Costa Ricas Kim Torres with If We Dont Burn, How Do We Light up the Night, a chilling story set in a rural town.

San Sebastians WIP Latam section is a proven launchpad for Latin American cinema, with recent participants going on to premiere at prestigious festivals like Berlin and Cannes. This years selected films will compete for the WIP Latam Industry Award, which includes post-production services and Spanish distribution, and the EGEDA Platino Industry Award, which comes with a 30,000 ($33,000) prize.

This initiative, supported by the Ibermedia Programme and various industry partners, continues to play a crucial role in promoting and developing Latin American cinema on the global stage.

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DAMASCUS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A truck bomb blast at a rebel checkpoint in northern Syria's rebel-held city of Azaz on Wednesday killed 10 and wounded 13 others, a war monitor reported.

At least four of the dead were members of the so-called Turkish-backed "Syrian National Army," according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Meanwhile, other reports said the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fired shells on the explosion site after the blast, as the SDF and the Turkish-backed rebels are at each other's throats in northern Syria.

No one has claimed responsibility for the bombing so far.

Azaz, located in Syria's Aleppo province, is controlled by rebels against the Syrian government. 
Is the outcome of Election Day written in the stars? That's what astrologers think, at least. When politics and planets align, the predictions can be persuasive. Illustration: Jianan Liu/HuffPost; Photo: Getty Images

This July, the world was stunned when President Joe Biden announced he was dropping his reelection bid and endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, as his successor. At less than four months before Election Day, the announcement was a seismic shock in American politics  but not for many astrologers.

Some claim they had seen signs of this exact scenario in Harris and Bidens natal charts, which is an astrological tool based on where the planets were in the sky at the time of ones birth. They had been telling their followers for years about how Harris star was rising and Bidens was falling and, in some cases, predicted the correct weekend that a dramatic political event would happen because of the full moon. For them, it had long been Joe-ver.

Astrologers have been seeing illness show up in Bidens chart for many years, astrologer Catherine Urban, who made a June prediction that Bidens health was at risk this year and that Harris might be endorsed by Biden, told HuffPost.

Predictive astrologers use multiple techniques to reach their conclusions, but a lot of their methods involve examining a subjects birthday as well as the time and place of their birth to create their natal chart. From there, they track planetary and star movements across time and space to see how the story of a persons life will unfold, including which moments in your career are especially auspicious.

Mo, an astrologer who co-hosts the Fixed Astrology podcast and asked to not share her full name because of her full-time job, predicted that Harris would be a wartime president in May. Mo told HuffPost that she has been seeing Harris come to power under really difficult circumstances as Harris has an enemies of the moon configuration in her fall solar return that indicates that people will be slandering her. Mo explained that this happens, in part, when a planet such as Mars or Saturn  which are associated with challenging periods in your life  is making a difficult aspect to the moon. Difficult aspect is astrology-speak for when planets create a geometric angle with each other that suggests you are going through strife.

Even if you do not believe in astrologys power, there are many others who are compelled by the stories written in the stars. Go on TikTok and you will see astrologers Election Day predictions  including which candidate might die and which will win  rack up tens of thousands of views. As one commenter put it on a TikTok that accurately predicted Biden not winning the election: This is my whole FYP [for you page] AND I CANT GET ENOUGH.

Astrologys influence in politics isnt a new concept.

Urban said the growing interest in political astrology is because this U.S. election is so high stakes and people often look to modalities like astrology to give us hope.

But the practices crossover with politics isnt a recent phenomenon; its an ancient tradition. In fact, astrologers were the first data scientists, argues Alexander Boxer, a data scientist, for his book A Scheme of Heaven: The History of Astrology and the Search for Our Destiny in Data.

Mapping the emotions of the stars onto politics is the original use of astrology. And it hasnt ever really gone away, he told HuffPost.

When Roman emperors such as Augustus and Tiberius ruled, astrologers were powerful and dangerous because their job was directly involved in who was going to be the next emperor and how long someone was forecast to live before they died.

Astrologers have also been part of many rulers inner circles. Queen Elizabeth I had a court astrologer who advised her during her reign. And in the U.S., after the 1981 assassination attempt on her husband, Nancy Reagan famously consulted an astrologer to determine auspicious dates for President Ronald Reagans trips and news conferences.

Astrology, Id say, both invented and in many ways perfected the art of taking a bunch of data, which maybe by itself is meaningless, and putting it together in a very compelling story, Boxer said.

Boxer sees ancient astrologers as the predecessors to modern-day election forecasters, like Nate Silver in the U.S. Using complicated mathematical models you are not expected to follow, both can use their tools to persuade you of their story, even when the prediction turns out to be flat wrong, he explained, because theres a particular seduction we have to a story told with data and numbers.

Who astrologers predict will win in November.

So what exactly are astrologers saying about the next few months? For one, its a time of nationwide upheaval.

Pluto has been returning to the celestial configuration it held during the birth of the nation on July 4, 1776. This means that Pluto is moving toward the same placement in the universe as it was in during the nations founding. Urban explained that during this final stretch of the nations Pluto return, we are in a time of massive death and rebirth. Its a reordering of the current structure.

She is predicting Harris will win the election over former President Donald Trump by a narrow margin, based on how the planets and signs in her natal chart are affecting the forecast around Election Day and the inauguration.

Both Harris and Trump have Jupiter  the planet of opportunity, good luck and abundance  close to significant points in their natal charts right now, but Harris is a Gemini rising, and 2024 is a Gemini-ruled year for her, so she gets a little more abundance, Urban said. Jupiter helped her be in the right place at the right time.

At the same time, Urban is predicting Trump will experience feeling crushed around Election Day, but his influence will not go away. Theres some indications in his chart that show that the things that he ends up becoming known for have not even happened yet. Urban said this is because Trumps signatures  or where planets and zodiac signs in his chart are located after the time of the election  are looking very authoritarian, and hes already the leader of a movement. So what would happen to that movement?

Meanwhile, Mo said that astrologers like her look at the charts of both running mates when making predictions and that Trumps pick of Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) has not helped Trumps chances of winning. If Trump picked a different person with better activations... maybe we would be having a different conversation, she said, noting that the timing in Vances chart is not giving taking the helm energy. Activation is a term youll hear a lot in astrology, and its where a zodiac sign or planet is going to be more significant because of the day, month or year youre in.

Astrologer Lisa Stardust, who says she has been forecasting Biden to be a one-term president for years, told HuffPost that predicting who will win in November depends on the chart of Harris running mate.

Nonetheless, Stardust noted that by Sept. 17, she, and the rest of us, should know who will win in November. On that day, Harris chart is extra lucky because she is experiencing a lunar eclipse in Pisces thats going to be in her 10th house of public image, which means that thats going to be the tipping point for her. In short, your natal chart is divided up into 12 houses that each reveal a different dynamic of your life, and when your house of public image is in the spotlight, so is your social standing.

Astrology can have as much meaning as you give it. Its entertaining, but dont let it consume you.

Ultimately, you get as much from the stars as the people who imbue it with power.

Mo said that her medium can give people themes, but it cannot predict every detail of their life. I cant tell if youve had a matcha latte for breakfast, she said. But I could say that maybe you had a very energetic start to your day Tuesday morning based on whatever [planetary] transits you were having.

Boxer, who does not believe in astrology, cautions people to be skeptical of November predictions because astrology is the template of data science and, in particular, the template for how we tell stories with numbers and data and how we can easily deceive others and ourselves.

Jess Holt, who is both an astrologer and a licensed clinical social worker in New York, said that its good if you use astrology to cope with uncertainty. But if reading election horoscopes is making you feel anxious, if its making you feel like you have to compulsively check things all the time, if its making you feel despair, then its probably not the right tool for you, they said.

In other words, use astrology to help you become aligned with your values, but dont let its endless information keep you stuck, as thats not a helpful use of the tool, they added.

Dont use what the stars are telling you to get out of the work of political action. You still need to be participating in your destiny and voting, Urban said.

There are certain things that are written, Urban said. However, theres also free will, and when it comes to deciding the fate of a nation, everyone needs to participate. Everyones will is participating.

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PIKE COUNTY, Ark.  A boys trip being made by a father and son from Arizona led to the discovery of the second-largest stone found at the Crater of Diamonds State Park so far in 2024.

Officials with Arkansas State Parks said that Will and Marshall Barnett of Buckeye, Arizona, were on a boys week road trip in late July that included a stop to see some Arkansas relatives. An uncle, who himself worked at another state park, told the pair about the Murfreesboro site, so they decided to visit and try their luck.

Meet the French visitor who discovered 7.46 carat Arkansas souvenir at Crater of Diamonds State Park

The Barnetts got to the park on July 27 and dug up a few of bucketfuls of soil. When they stopped by the wash pavilion to sift through the dirt, the elder Barnett spotted something glimmering in his sifting screen.

Will Barnett told park staff that he called to his son, Hey Marshall, you should take a look at this! before the boy picked out the stone to show another nearby miner.

Will & Marshall Barnett

(Image courtesy Arkansas State Parks)

The duo headed to Diamond Discovery Center at the park, where the staff confirmed their big find.

Arkansas man finds 4.87-carat diamond in Crater of Diamonds State Park, largest found since 2020

Park superintendent Caleb Howell noted it was easy to pick out who had made the discovery.

While examining the diamond, I looked out the office window and asked Mrs. Keys who the finders were, then said, Wait, let me guess: theyre the ones shaking with excitement! Howell said.

You could tell they knew they had found something special from the smiles on their faces, park interpreter Ashlyn Keys added.

Paragould 7-year-old finds a diamond at Arkansas Crater of Diamonds park

Park officials said the two-carat diamond is rectangular in shape, about the size of a pencil eraser, with a light brown color resembling iced tea. The park visitors who uncover the stones get to name them, with the Barnetts deciding on Minor Find since Will often says his son Marshall is a minor-miner.

According to state park officials, Minor Find is the 412th diamond registered at Crater of Diamonds State Park in 2024 and the 36,500th diamond registered since the park opened in 1972.

Image courtesy Arkansas State Parks

Image courtesy Arkansas State Parks

Image courtesy Arkansas State Parks

Officials noted that visitors find one or two diamonds every day, on average, but, as Will said, fun can be had even without a discovery.

Its worth looking, even if you dont find a diamond! he told staff.

Visitor finds 3.29-carat gem at Crater of Diamonds State Park

For more information on the park, including directions and a list of activities, head to ArkansasStateParks.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 KARK.
As wildfire season hits a smoke-filled stride in August and September, it can be difficult for Oregonians to find hikes unaffected that still feel wild, remote and challenging.

On the central Oregon Coast in the Siuslaw National Forest, 8 miles south of Yachats, sits the solution: Cummins Ridge Trail.

The 14.28-mile, out-and-back hike cuts through the Cummins Creek Wilderness, with the only old growth Sitka spruce forest in the Oregon wilderness system. The ridgeline hike gains 2,480 feet of elevation, follows a gravel Forest Service Road for about a mile and culminates atop Cummins Peak.

Although there isn't the payoff of a grand majestic view atop Cummins Peak, hikers can find solitude and peace along the ridge of this coastal forest.

A Cummins Creek Wilderness sign hangs from a Sitka spruce at the Cummins Ridge West Trailhead in the Siuslaw National Forest.

The true challenge is just how long the hike is. Almost seven hours of hiking can be tough for the average person. Luckily Cummins ridge being an out-and-back hike means there's always an opportunity to turn around and finish at a suitable distance.

Heres everything you need to know to tackle this smoke-free peak.

What to expect for Cummins Ridge Trail on central Oregon Coast

Start at the Cummins Ridge West Trailhead and wind through old growth wilderness next to towering Douglas firs and Sitka spruce with trunks measuring up to 9 feet in diameter.

The initial 3 miles are a subtle incline that I didnt notice, until I did. I recommend getting to the hike as the sun begins to peak over the eastern ridge and splashes the tops of spruce trees with marigold rays of light.

Morning light breaks through the trees on the Cummins Ridge Trail.

After 3 miles, the elevation levels out. The carved foot trail can get thin at certain points against the ridge between miles 4 and 6. The thought of tumbling down a slope before coming to an abrupt stop against the trunk of a tree ensured careful footing.

At about 6.5 miles in, you'll come to the East Cummins Ridge Trailhead.

Walk past the trailhead and onto Forest Road 5694. Follow the road south and stay left when it forks. At mile 7, stay left as the road doglegs up to Cummins Peak. There is a gate blocking motorized vehicles on the unnamed road to the peak. The peak is marked by a cellphone tower.

Views hard to come by on Cummins Ridge Trail

If youre into hikes for the awe-inspiring, sweeping views of vast landscapes that remind you just how insignificant your problems are, this probably isnt the hike for you.

Although the Pacific Ocean and coastal range mountains are visible at certain points throughout the hike, they are mostly drowned out and blocked by dense Sitka spruce and Douglas fir tree lines.

The Pacific Ocean can just be seen through the tree line on the Cummins Ridge Trail.

Spiders and slugs and overgrown trails, oh my!

My only complaint for the hike was the consistent face-high spiderwebs hanging what felt like every 10 yards. Other than slightly tiring my arms out by wiping off my chest and face, the webs caused no real harm besides inducing an icky feeling.

A hike along Cummins Ridge Trail also gives an opportunity to witness one of the largest land mollusks in the world  the Pacific banana slug. These yellow invertebrates consume dead plant matter and are decomposers who cruise the forest using a muscular foot underside that doubles as a stomach.

A Pacific banana slug on the Cummins Ridge Trail.

The trail is somewhat overgrown, but not difficult to follow. Damp leaves of shrubs and ferns reach out from both sides of the trail, soaking anything below the knee. As in all hikes, but especially on Cummins, an extra pair of socks is recommended.

Overgrowth is not always a bad thing, with thick brush comes delicious salmon and black berries, which are just beginning to ripen on the cooler temperate coast.

Cummins Ridge Trail offers silence and solitude

The lack of views and prevalence of spiderwebs is outweighed by the meditative silence and solitude Cummins Ridge has to offer.

The only man-made sound I heard for the six hour and forty-minute hike  besides my own heavy breathing on an incline or two  was the occasional hum of an airplane overhead. Although only being a few miles from well-traveled U.S. Highway 101, this hike gives a remote feeling and connection to the wilderness.

Brush on the forest floor grows over onto the Cummins Ridge Trail.

Cummings Ridge Trail

In a nutshell: A meditative and remote feeling hike along a ridge in a coastal forest.

Length: 14.28 miles round-trip

Climb: 2,480 feet

Difficulty: Strenuous

Children: Probably not unless they like really long hikes.

Drive time from Salem/Eugene: 90 minutes

Permit? Not required

From Eugene: Head west on West 11th Avenue/Oregon Route 126 for 58 miles. Stay left at Mapleton to remain on OR-126 toward Florence and turn right on U.S. Highway 101 heading north. Follow 101 for 20 miles and turn right on National Forest Road 1051 and follow NFD Road 1051 for 2.5 miles before arriving at the Cummins Ridge West Trailhead.

From Salem: Hop on Oregon Route 22 west. In 10 miles turn right to stay on OR-223. After 27 miles turn right onto Priest Road then right onto US-20 west after a mile. Stay on US-20 for 37 miles then hang a left on US-101 in Newport. Follow US-101 for 28 miles. Turn left on NFD Road 1051 and follow for 2.5 miles until arriving at the Cummins Ridge West Trailhead.

Plan ahead: NFD Road 1051 is unpaved, uneven and steep. A four-wheel drive and high clearance vehicle is recommended. With some finesse and slow moving, I was able to get to the trailhead just fine in my two-wheel drive compact Toyota.

Elliott Deins is an outdoor reporting intern for the Statesman Journal. You can reach him at edeins@salem.gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Cummins Ridge offers remote hike feel on Oregon Coast
Backpack-A-Thon in Seminole County focused of supporting thousands of local students

With school just five days away for most of Central Florida, were entering the final countdown for school supplies.

A Backpack-A-Thon event in Seminole County on Wednesday is hoping to donate 5,000 backpacks to local students.

This particular back-to-school drive has been a part of Central Florida for 18 years.

Watch: Volusia County Schools detail new workforce readiness program for students

There were many smiling faces at the event as parents and students got their brand-new backpacks.

This was all possible thanks to the generosity of the local community.

A partnership between 9 Family Connection, Mercy Road Initiatives, and Life Hope at Northland Church.

This year, organizers focused on single-mom households and families caring for children with learning disabilities.

Read: These new schools are opening this school year

See more in the video above.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
As the worlds second hand clothing market is expected to double to $350 billion by 2027, textile waste still remains a massive problem as much of the West ships off unwanted materials to the global south.

Kantamanto Market in Accra, Ghana sees nearly 8 million pounds of used clothing every week, as many garments clog the sewage systems and pollute the countrys beaches. In Chile, the largest importer of secondhand clothing in Latin America, a mound of discarded clothes the size of the Brooklyn Bridge accumulates in the Atacama Desert.

Facing the constricting damages of textile waste, menders, sewers, and upcyclers are turning back to their roots to preserve the lifespan of clothing and keep garments out of landfills.

Mending as tradition, not trend

Were actually handing down an old tradition that seems brand new, said Iickomique Belmontes, a green artist committed to natural materials and dyes, who leads mending classes in Chicago.

In partnership with Emmanuel Edwards, owner and operator of Chicago-based vintage store the Goody Vault, the duo launched a mending class series earlier this year out of the stores vintage showroom.

Photo: Photo Provided

Its funny when we talk about this stuff because this is a poor mans practice, said Edwards. This was birthed out of hardship and limited resources and now everybody loves it.

Edwards works to repair and recreate pieces from as early as the 1910s, with vintage patchwork denim jeans, flannel shirts, and military wear adorning the walls of his showroom. The duo relay the strategy behind mending with similarly-weighted materials and the intricate threading patterns that can be used to integrate new colors and textures into garments. A sewing machine sits in the middle of Edwards showroom as he meticulously reworked a vintage pair of Levis jeans.

Growing up in Alabama, like many other Black Southerners, Edwards recounts his familial connection to mending and quiltmaking from tattered textiles.

My grandmother mended our clothesshe made quilts and made everything out of scraps, so were just [teaching] that in another way, Edwards said.

The mending series, born out of a push for creative sustainability, invites visitors to bring in potentially worn clothing, use available scraps and take something as simple as a single needle and thread to extend the life of their loved apparel.

Recognizing a gap between secondhand clothing and upcycled clothing has been a major feat for independent merchandisers the Environmental Protection Agency estimated 62.5% of donated clothes ended up in landfills in 2018 alone.

Consumption and textile waste has gotten so high the EPA officially added a fourth R to the recommended efforts of waste management in the face of hyperconsumerism: refuse.

Teaching to sew is teaching the importance of using the resources that are already here, said Hekima Hapa, founder of Black Girls Sew.

The Brooklyn nonprofit is dedicated to teaching todays children, often bombarded by messaging from fast fashion brands, to sew and mend higher quality and inherited textile materials.

For black and brown communities, I think [sewing] is heavily driven by need, Hapa said. During the pandemic, when we saw things slow down, we didnt have access to clothing and had to really think about how meaningful it is to have these fabrics.

Not only has the nonprofit seen interest from children, but immense support from community members, donated textiles and raising funds to revitalized the tradition of mending into the next generation.

Photo: Photo Provided

Black Girls Sew actively combats the promises of fast fashion, bringing children on thrift store field trips to purchase denim jackets and learn to customize them through sewing and mending. The organization even runs a summer fashion camp, where enrolled students, thanks to community donations, are able to have their very own sewing machine to take home.

Find those free resources, invite people and put up signs in your neighborhood, Hapa said about her journey in building Black Girls Sew.  And more often than not, youll find people who are just like you.

At least buy smart

In the face of admittedly dismal predictions and estimates for the future of textile waste, upcyclers are leading the education of sustainable alternatives and putting tools into the hands of their community to mitigate future damage.

These forms of textile preservation have measurable impacts, too. Extending the lifespan of a garment by nine months could reduce its environmental impact by roughly 20-30% each, according to the Waste & Resources Actions Programme (WRAP).

Consume what you want secondhand, but be mindful of keeping it for a while, fixing it and giving it new life, said Edwards. We cant stop people from buying but at least buy smart.
Chris Ireland, owner of Ireland Family Wines, is pictured with bottles of his pinot noir.

Northeast Ohio is quietly becoming a hotbed for people with California wine country passion projects.

Some names on that reputable list of locals include the late Tom Burgess and Jim Clendenen, along with Drew Neiman and Helen Keplinger, to name just a few.

And now, you can add former Ken Stewarts bartender and 1992 Kent State University graduate Chris Ireland to the list.

Ireland, who came from a working-class background, tended bar to pay for his business degree at KSU.

"I took a trip when I was in college right before I became a bartender to visit family in the Bay Area," Ireland said. "We visited Hess and Clos Pegase in Napa. I fell in love with wine county not knowing at the time that I would end up doing it as a way of life."

Ireland was living in Highland Square while working as a bartender at Ken Stewart's Grille from 1995 to 1999 and gives much credit to Stewart and manager Gary Bush.

[Bush] promoted me from a bartender to be a wine buyer. And then I started tasting a lot of very special wine," Ireland said. "If it wasnt for that, I wouldnt be here."

During his 3 1/2 years at the iconic Market Street restaurant, Ireland assembled a wine list that was given an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine. It was the first time since Ken Stewart's opened in 1990 that the restaurant had received such a prestigious award.

He had a great pallet, said Stewart. "We had an awesome wine list to begin with, and he refined it and filled in the weak spots."

After moving on to work several jobs in the wine industry, including with Wine Trends Inc., Billington Imports and the Click Wine Group, Ireland landed a job with Swiss winemaker and art collector Donald Hess at his prestigious Hess Collection Winery in Napa Valley.

Ireland started in 2008 as a regional manager. After 12 years, he worked his way up to vice president of eastern sales in the United States, where he built a team of 11 people calling on 30 distributors in 25 states.

The dream of owning his own wine brand led him to launch Ireland Family Wine & Spirits on February 20, 2020.

"It was one of those things where you finally overcome your fears of being an entrepreneur and you just do it and figure it out, Ireland said. "Less than a month later came the 'Oh, shit' moment where the pandemic was clear to all of us.

"Things got quiet that summer, he added. "I started just ahead of a pandemic."

I recently met up with Ireland, 57, in the Merriman Valley while he was pouring two of his pinot noirs for Merchant Tavern owner Anthony Piscazzi and Towpath Distillery head distiller David Sheffer. Ireland came with bottles of his $75 Santa Rita single vineyard pinot noir along with his $65 Russian River pinot noir, where the grapes are sourced from the famous Bacigalupi, Dutton and Pratt vineyards.

With pinot noir savant James McPhail hired to be the winemaker, these silky-smooth wines will definitely be a must-have bottle for any wine enthusiast. McPhail's wines have been awarded over 200 90+ scores by major wine publications.

"James McPhail had the ability to get the texture and flavor in pinot that I was looking for. He was my first call, Ireland said as we sipped on his Russian River jewel.

Its a very nice wine, Stewart said by phone. "We are looking forward to carrying it."

Since releasing the wines, Ireland has changed his strategy a bit and started to sell them for $49.99 while he introduces his new brand into the Ohio market.

While currently living in the Columbus area with his wife Amy and their two children, Ireland has been busy reconnecting with his business acquaintances and relationships in Northeast Ohio to get the word out about Ireland Family Wines. For now, he continues to commute from Bexley to Sonoma, California, to handle any winery business.

The good news is Ken Stewarts Grille, Ken Stewarts Lodge and Ken Stewarts Tre Belle will be pouring the Ireland Family Russian River pinot noir for $16 per glass and $64 a bottle.

The Merchant Tavern, all Heinen's stores, Beau's Market in Copley, Papa Joes and Mustard Seed Market in Montrose have also picked up these wines.

Stop in at the Heinen's in Hudson from 4-6 p.m. Aug. 22 to meet Chris and sample his great wines. He will also be pouring samples at the Heinen's in Chagrin Falls from 5-7 p.m. Aug. 23 and at the Twinsburg Heinen's from noon to 3 p.m. Aug. 24.

Email me at philyourglass@gmail.com with any wine questions and follow me on Instagram @pmasturzo_philyourglass

More: Local winemaker Jim Demuth toasts to high scores on his Gregory James wines | Phil Your Glass

More: This Aussie white wine from Thistledown Wine Company is simply Gorgeous | Phil Your Glass

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Chris Ireland of Ireland Family Wines got his start at Ken Stewart's
Just off Interstate 80 at exit 254 in West Branch lies a treasure trove of history featuring a national park, 16 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places and Iowa's only presidential museum and library.

One-hundred-fifty years ago on Aug. 10, Herbert Hoover, the 31st president of the United States and the only president ever to come from Iowa, was born there. This year, the West Branch community is pulling out all the stops with a grander-than-usual edition of the annual Hoover's Hometown Days festival to celebrate his sesquicentennial birthday.

West Branch has held special birthday celebrations to honor the president and his wife, Lou, of Waterloo, dating as far back as 1948, when Hoover and his family returned to town to celebrate his 74th birthday. He died in 1964, one of just five presidents to survive to age 90 or older.

More: Historic front page from the Des Moines Register, Nov. 7, 1928: Hoover elected president

"What's cool about Hoover's Hometown Days is that there is truly something for everybody; it aims to be a festival that does appeal to entertain a large demographic of people fully," said Jessi Simon, executive director at Main Street West Branch, the volunteer organization that hosts the event. "There are unique opportunities across the board to do something entertaining and unique and enjoy the community of West Branch, to have some summer fun and learn about Hoover's life and legacy at the same time."

Exciting new and classic events

This year, the main day of the festival will fall on Hoover's actual birthday, a Saturday, and new celebrations have been added to the lineup.

President Hoover playing Hoover-Ball on the White House lawn.

Crowd favorites like a parade, Hoover Ball tournaments and workshops, food trucks, historic reenactments and live music will return. The parade starts at 10 a.m. and will proceed down Main Street in the downtown corridor.

New to the festival this year is Hoover's Hootenanny, a picnic with live music on the lawn of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, inspired by Hoover's Quaker heritage.

Educational experiences and unique highlights

The event features a wide variety of family fun and educational experiences, like free admission to the museum and library, which features the temporary exhibit "Hoover 150: A Birthday Celebration." It's the final one there prior to a planned remodeling and renovation.

"This is an opportunity to discover the Hoovers in a remarkable way," Thomas Schwartz, director of the library and museum, said in a news release. "This exhibit properly provides a special sendoff to our galleries, sharing the Hoover story in a festive way. With a monumental renovation only months away, we encourage visitors to rediscover the museum one more time before our doors close until 2026."

Hoover's Hometown Days is an annual celebration in West Branch honoring the President Herbert Hoover, the only Iowan to have held the nation's highest office, and his wife, Lou Henry Hoover. This year Hoover's Hometown Days will happen Aug. 9 and 10, coinciding with Hoover's actual birthday.

Other educational highlights of this year's Hoover's Hometown Days include the Honoring Hoover Family Discussion, where Margaret Hoover, Leslie Hoover-Lauble, and Allan Hoover III, great grandchildren of the Hoovers, will discuss the lives and legacies of their ancestors and what it means to them to carry on the Hoover name. Another panel called the Hoover Forum welcomes historians discussing Hoover's legacy and a ranger from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, where Hoover, a conservationist, maintained Camp Rapidan. His trout fishing getaway, it was presented as a gift to the American people after he left the White House.

"It only happens once every 150 years," said Aaron Scheinblum, the museum and library's public affairs specialist. "We have the opportunity to honor Hoover's hometown and Herbert Hoover's birthday every year, but to do it on a special anniversary like this is a tremendous opportunity for us to just do something a little bit different, go all out for it, and really turn it into a birthday celebration that people will remember for a long time."

Hoover's Hometown Days

The presidential library and museum and Mainstreet West Branch also teamed up with Big Grove, the Iowa City-area-based craft brewery, to create a special beer for the event. Simply named Thirty One, it is a classic wheat ale featuring flavor notes of honey and a hint of citrus.

Former President Herbert Hoover cutting his birthday cake during his 80th birthday celebration at a celebration in West Branch on Aug. 10, 1954.

To cap off the festivities, at 7 p.m. on the Hoover Stage at the park there will be a free birthday cake for attendees, followed by a live performance by Shades of Blue Jazz Ensemble, a group that is part of the U.S. Air Force Band.

Both Simon and Scheinblum emphasize the festival also is bout celebrating the historic town of West Branch, which most only pass through when going somewhere else.

Hoover's Hometown Days is an annual celebration in West Branch honoring the President Herbert Hoover, the only Iowan to have held the nation's highest office, and his wife, Lou Henry Hoover. This year Hoover's Hometown Days will happen Aug. 9 and 10, coinciding with Hoover's actual birthday.

"It is worth a day trip to visit historic West Branch. You won't be sorry. There is something for everybody every time you visit West Branch, but especially during Hoover's Hometown Day(s)," said Simon. "What we try to capture when you visit West Branch is this notion that you can be a small-town Iowa kid and grow up to leave a truly positive impact on the world."

Hoover's Hometown Days kick off at 4 p.m. Aug. 9, with a youth Hoover-ball tournament followed by tractor pulls, food and beer vendors and a performance by the Mill Creek Band. The festivities continue from 8 a.m. to 8:50 p.m. the following day, with the full lineup of events available online at hooverdays.org.

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at JRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: West Branch honors Herbert Hoover's 150th birthday with grand festival
Tests carried out on Everest last spring with cargo drones were so successful that Nepal authorities have ruled that these drones will carry gear and retrieve rubbish between Camp 1 and Base Camp in future.

It seems like a great idea. Drones are cleaner and more cost-effective than helicopters. Most of all, they are a safer option for the many porters who risk their lives shuttling several times a season through the treacherous Khumbu Icefall. Nearly 50 people have died amid these seracs since the peaks first ascent in 1953.

Safety first

The use of drones on Everest is a natural evolution of technology applied to Himalayan mountaineering, Dawa Steven Sherpa of Asian Trekking told ExplorersWeb. [Its] something helicopters were doing but at a pretty high risk and high cost.

Sherpa climbers at the Khumbu Icefall of Everest. Photo: Sagarmathaa Pollution Control Committee

Drones will save lives, agrees Mingma G of Imagine Nepal told ExplorersWeb.

Mingma G knows well the toll the Icefall can take. This past spring, he lost three men when a section of ice collapsed.

Also, he told ExplorerWeb, drones will relieve the crowding at the Khumbu Icefall, andmultiply the amount of rubbish that can be brought down.

Even the commercial clients should welcome the change since, as Dawa Steven Sherpa points out, There has always been some guilt and apprehension [among clients] that the sherpas are putting themselves at risk by carrying loads.

Other peaks too

The measure will proceed not only on Everest but also on other peaks of the Khumbu. The Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and Airlift Technology Pvt. Ltd. signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the use of advanced drone technology to efficiently manage garbage in the mountains of the Khumbu region.

The Chinese producers at Da Jiang Innovations (DJI) will be in charge of commercializing the drones. It was one of their models tested last spring that prompted the rule change.

The DJI FlyCart 30, the long-distance heavy lifter drone, could airlift 234kg per hour between Camp I and Base Camp, a task usually accomplished by at least 14 porters in six hours, The Kathmandu Post reported.

Check out a video about cargo drones on Everest here.

Loss of local jobs?

Some are concerned that jobs could be lost, as expeditions will need fewer porters to carry loads on their back. But the stakeholders see it as an opportunity for sherpas to aspire to better jobs.

Having the sherpas less engaged in ferrying loads would free them up to assist their clients on the actual climb, Dawa Steven said. This is more financially rewarding for them in terms of bonuses and tips. Each commercial client will continue to need/want a sherpa to assist on the climb to the summit, so I would say their jobs are secure.

Dawa Steven eyes an ambitious future for the Sherpa community. We foresee that there will be fewer Sherpas working in mountaineering, and those who do will be better trained (UIAGM or similar). The trend is already moving toward sherpas more as guides [than] their traditional role as porters. The drone will act as a catalyst for that.

Camp 1 on Everest. Photo: Mike Hamill/Climbing the 7 Summits

Moreover, Jagat Bhusal of the Khumbu Municipality told The Kathmandu Post that there is a plan to train sherpas as drone pilots.

While the drones will operate until Camp 1 (6,000m), porters will remain needed to carry loads across the easier section between Camp 1 on the Western Cwm and Camp 2 (6,400m).

Finally, drones still have a ceiling. Beyond that point, nothing matches the sherpas ability to reach higher altitudes.

Will Camp 2 become a new Advanced Base Camp?

Drones might change some climbing strategies. Dawa Steven noted that his own sherpa team hopes in future to be based out of Camp 2. They will pick up the loads at Camp 1 and then stock the high camps. This reduces their passage through the Icefall to just one there and back.

Commercial clients already minimize their rotations by acclimatizing on easier peaks, using hypoxic training at home, and turning to supplementary oxygen at Camp 2.

Better waste disposal but more needed

The measure should also reduce the litter accumulating beyond Base Camp. Last spring, some improvements in the disposal of human waste were a good start. Teams also tried to bring down their gear as they retreated. Drones will help here, but there remains a lot to do to clean up the mountain, especially around Camp 4, located at nearly 8,000m on the South Col.

The post Drones Will Help Sherpas Avoid Everest Icefall Next Year appeared first on Explorersweb.
How to keep your air conditioning from failing in brutal heat of a Florida summer

Few things strike more fear in the hearts of South Floridians than a broken air conditioner in summer. Once it fails youre in for some brutal, if not dangerous, heat, and youre at the mercy of the technicians schedule, not to mention the repair costs.

How do you keep your AC from breaking down? Should you pour bleach down the overflow pipe? Can you vacuum the slime out? Do you really need high-end filters?

We spoke to local AC experts about how to avoid those dreaded AC failures.

Filter fix

Adam Ross, executive director at the South Florida Academy of Air Conditioning in Fort Lauderdale, which trains HVAC students, said changing your filter is one of the easiest ways to keep breakdowns few and far between.

You want to change your filters every month, he said. Its better to buy a less expensive air filter and change it every month than it is to buy an expensive air filter and only change it every six months.

Filters can cost between $12 and $80, which can create misunderstandings when shopping. People think, Oh, Ill get a better one and itll last longer,  Ross said. It doesnt work like that. Its better to get a less expensive filter and commit to changing it.

Marco Stangoni of AA American Air Conditioning of Delray Beach, agrees. The filters are the one thing you always want to keep up on, he said. I would get the least expensive paper filters. Youre going to have to change them a little more frequently, so buy a case at a time.

He added that the proper size is important. If you dont get the right size filter, all the dirts going to bypass the filter and ruin your coil, and youll end up with big expenses later on.

Ross said if you dont change filters often enough, it stresses the system. When the filter starts to accumulate dust and debris, youre not going to get as much air flow in the system and it will make your system work harder, which can lead to failures faster, especially if you have an older system.

Stangoni suggested changing filters every month or two months, depending on how often you open your door or whether you have pets.

Clogged culprit

Clogged drain lines might be the most common cause of AC failure. Theyre one of the biggest culprits, Ross said. and they can happen to new or old systems.

Ross explained that clogging occurs because AC units not only cool, they dehumidify. The system collects that moisture in a pan and sends it down a pipe to the exterior of the house. When that pipe clogs with accumulated algae and slime, the pan fills up and can spill over, flooding whatever space the AC is in, often an attic or closet. To prevent this, units have kill switches that shut the AC down when the pan fills up.

Thats when a lot of people call an AC tech. But there are ways to prevent slime buildup, and ways to unclog a pipe without an AC tech coming over.

To prevent the pipe from clogging, some people pour bleach into the top of the pipe every month or two. The top of the pipe is always at the interior unit and accessible. Other homeowners use tablets. Opinions differ on the use of bleach  some say its fine, others say its corrosive to PVC pipes.

Richard Buckley, head instructor at the South Florida Academy of Air Conditioning in Fort Lauderdale, demonstrates how to cut copper tubing in a lesson at the academys welding warehouse.

Old school folks do put bleach, Stangoni said. Weve used vinegar. The vinegar doesnt seem to have the same potency. I dont personally put bleach in my line because I dont know what effect thats going to have on the glue that holds the [PVC] fittings together.

Dont pour bleach down the drain line, Ross said. It wont help your problem over the long term.

He said you can buy anti-slime tablets online that have a slow release. Thatll kill slime and sludge over time, he said. Its not the end of the world if you pour bleach down there. But he said the slime is going to start to grow back. The tablets offer longer-term prevention.

Tablets are OK, Stangoni said. But if the line is already full of algae theyre not going to get rid of it. In other words, he sees them as preventative but not a solution if the drain pipe is full of slime.

As for bleachs corrosiveness on PVC, an online retailer for industrial supplies and PVC, pvcfittingsonline.com, says, You can safely use bleach to clean and disinfect your PVC pipes, as long as you dilute it first and avoid mixing it with other chemicals.

The site suggests a dilution strength of one part bleach to four parts water for regular cleaning and disinfecting, and a one-to-two ratio if necessary.

Be careful not to mix the chemicals you pour down the pipe, though. Mixing bleach with ammonia or vinegar can create poisonous gasses that can cause damage to your piping and your health, says pvcfittingsonline.com.

If the pipe is already clogged, there are some easy at-home solutions you can try before calling a technician. Typically, a tech will blow the drain out with compressed air. But you can use a vacuum to suck it out the other end.

Stangoni suggests using a vacuum both preventatively and as a fix after a clog. He said its a good idea to vacuum out the line every few months. Thats something any homeowner can do, he said.

Youll need a small wet/dry vacuum that you can pick up at a hardware store. He said the PVC is typically -inch pipe, and the wet/dry vacuums have tubing that should fit tight upon the outflow pipe.

First, turn off your AC. Then snug the vacuums nozzle on the ACs outlet pipe outside the house, and let the vacuum run. While its running, go inside and listen at the other end of the pipe. Make sure you can hear the vac pulling at the other end, he said. You need to hear that vac sound coming from the outside to the inside, so you know its clear.

Refrigerant failures

Refrigerant fluid, or lack of it, is another culprit. If the air coming through the ducts doesnt seem that cold, there could be a refrigerant leak, Ross said. He said that copper lines can start to leak refrigerant in systems that are older than 10 years.

Richard Buckley, head instructor at the South Florida Academy of Air Conditioning in Fort Lauderdale, demonstrates how to cut copper tubing in a lesson at the academys welding warehouse. (Photo courtesy South Florida Academy of Air Conditioning).

Refrigerants, such as Freon, are clear and difficult to see. You can spray soapy water on the evaporator coil and look for bubbles, said Ross, but you probably want a service tech out there to do that.

If theres one leak, theres usually more, he said. Refilling Freon is the cheaper option, but it doesnt fix the leak. Its also bad for the environment, Ross said.

The other option is to replace the entire system. Thats obviously much more expensive, but Ross said it might save you money in the long run.

Dusty ducts

The ducts that bring air to each room can get quite dusty, and some marketing materials for duct cleaning services warn of mold. But Ross said theres not a ton of efficiency loss, even if theyre dusty. He said cleaning them is more about hygiene.

Stangoni is a little more duct-averse. I would leave ducts alone unless theyre dirty from construction, he said.

The outside unit

The outside AC is less complicated, and blows hot air away from the house. But it still needs a little attention.

Everything is about airflow, Ross said. The unit outside needs airflow. Its pulling heat from inside your house, and blowing it outside, and sucking air through the sides and blowing the air up. So you need some clearance around the side. Its common in Florida that people want to hide them, so they pack in hedges around it. Those hedges can grow in, so make sure theres a bit of space for airflow.

The outside unit also contains steel coils. I would not mess with the coils at all, Stangoni said. I would leave the [coils] on the outdoor unit alone  You cant constantly pour water on them because theyre metal, and it will degrade the metal. Theres one exception, though, he said. Houses often have dryer vents placed near the outdoor AC unit. That lint can start to accumulate inside the coils. So you gotta watch out for that.

This story was produced in partnership with the Florida Climate Reporting Network, a multi-newsroom initiative founded by the Miami Herald, the South Florida Sun Sentinel, The Palm Beach Post, the Orlando Sentinel, WLRN Public Media and the Tampa Bay Times.
UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Wednesday reiterated the call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

"As we speak, conflict in the Gaza Strip has been going on for over 300 days, with more than 10,000 women killed and over a million Palestinian women and girls facing famine," said Dai Bing, charge d'affaires of China's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, at the Security Council briefing on sustaining WPS (women peace and security) commitments in the context of accelerated drawdown of peace operations.

Dai reiterated the call on all parties to respond to the "overwhelming consensus of the international community" and to jointly promote the "full and effective" implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions to achieve an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, to put an end to the humanitarian catastrophe, and to contain the spillover of the conflict.

In his remarks, the ambassador emphasized that all efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts and to create a peaceful environment for civilians, including women, are key prerequisites for advancing the WPS agenda.

"No matter what transitions or adjustments peace operations go through, the promotion of political settlement of hotspot issues should always be the most fundamental mandate," he said.

With the changes in factors such as the situation on the ground and the will of the countries concerned, some UN missions need to withdraw, downsize, or make adjustments, he noted, adding that how to achieve smooth transitions while maintaining peace and stability in the countries and regions concerned is an important topic for council members.

China supports the United Nations and the Security Council in formulating clear and feasible transition plans and exit strategies for peace operations based on fully heeding and respecting the will of the countries concerned and aligning with the national development strategies and priority areas of the countries concerned, so as to ensure a smooth transition, he said.

Noting that women are important stakeholders in peace operations, Dai said Security Council Resolution 1325 explicitly supports women's equal and full participation in peace processes, and calls for enhanced protection of women and girls in conflict areas.

"We support the countries concerned in elevating the protection of women's rights and interests to the level of national will and, along with the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, making sustained investments in women's empowerment and development, so as to continuously enhance women's representation and voice in political, economic, cultural, and social affairs," he said. 
Where there was once rotisserie chicken and fried yucca, there will soon be queso and fajitas. Mr. Rayo Mexican Grill is moving into the Fort Mill space where Roasting Oven and Grill recently closed.

The Ugalde family behind Rock Hills Casa Tequila is opening the restaurant, named Mr. Rayo for a nickname given to the family patriarch, Raul, co-owner Cesar Ugalde told CharlotteFive. (Rayo means lightning, a nod to how speedy Raul Ugalde was in his youth.)

The restaurants wont share a name, partly to help avoid confusion by customers ordering in separate towns. But the food  based on the cuisine of Michoacan, Mexico  will be quite similar.

A butterfly mural by Alex DeLarge decorates in the dining room at Mr. Rayo Mexican Grill in Fort Mill.

By the end of August or early September, customers will be chowing down on burritos, fajitas and tacos at Mr. Rayo. Other familiar favorites from the Casa Tequila menu such as chimichangas and chile rellenos will likely make an appearance.

Our fajitas are really popular. We have one that comes in a whole pineapple, Ugalde said.

Mr. Rayo will also offer a full bar, complete with margaritas and other cocktails. Mexican beer and domestic options will be available, too.

[TACO TUESDAY EVERY DAY: Some of Charlottes newest restaurants have a common thread  tacos and tequila.]

Murals by Charlotte-area artist Alex DeLarge decorate the dining area, which is undergoing renovations. Customers will dip chips into queso and crunch into tacos under DeLarges Monarch butterflies, set along a bright orange wall, and near a striking calavera mural.

A calavera mural by Alex DeLarge decorates the hallway at Mr. Reyo Mexican Grill in Fort Mill.

As for the Roasting Oven, owner Aldo Sevillano had reached out to the Ugaldes about the space close to South Charlotte because he was ready to retire, Ugalde said. The longtime family friend served Peruvian and other Latin American cuisine since 1993, including rotisserie chicken entrees and sandwiches, seafood platters and more.

Mr. Rayo Mexican Grill is located at 855 Gold Hill Road, #111.

Mr. Rayo Mexican Grill

Location: 855 Gold Hill Rd #111, Fort Mill, SC 29708

Menu

Cuisine: Mexican
McDonald's giving away nostalgic glasses in new meal deal. Here's how to get them

McDonald's is introducing a Collector's Meal with an old-school twist.

The twist  the meals come with collectible glasses, once a stable of fast food restaurant giveaways.

When are McDonald's Collector's Meals starting?

The meals will be available beginning Tuesday, Aug. 13.

What's in a McDonald's Collector's Meal?

You'll be able to keep a piece of McDonald's forever because the fast-food chain will be offering one-of-a-kind collectible cups that come free with a purchase of a new combo meal.

The McDonald's breakfast Collectors Meal includes with a sausage and egg sandwich, hash browns and a hot coffee.

A lunch and dinner Collectors Meal has more options. You can choose from a 10-piece nugget or Big Mac, along with fries and a drink.

The Collectors Meal is set to be available all day, which means that you can add to your collection whenever the mood strikes, McDonalds said.

Who has the best value meal?: Which fast-food meal deal is the best overall value? The answer may surprise you

What are the glasses in the Collector's Meal?

McDonald's will be giving out one-of-a-kind collectible cups with the purchase of a Collector's Meal, which will be available for purchase all day at participating restaurant locations.

According to a release from McDonald's the cup will include images of the restaurant's popular promotions, including Grimace, Barbie, Peanuts and Beanie Babies:

Barbie & Hot Wheels: The design puts a fresh spin on beloved Mattel toys that ignite our imagination.

Beanie Babie s: A homage to the Teenie Beanie craze of the 90s, this cup features some of the era's most beloved characters, like Golden Arches Bear (2004).

Coca-Col a: Keep cool with a modern twist on classic Coca-Cola designs that celebrate iconic collabs with McDonald's over the years.

Hello Kitty & Peanuts: From hanging at the beach to going on big adventures, the Hello Kitty and Peanuts cup embodies the joy of being with our best friends  and the McDonald's collectibles that remind us of those moments.

Shrek, Jurassic Park & Minions: Inspired by the iconic film franchises, this cup highlights unforgettable scenes and characters we've loved for generations, along with the collectibles that brought them to life.

McDonald's: The Grimace Glass. Boo Buckets. Funny Fry Friends. Our fans fell in love with these collectibles from the start. So, it's only right that we show love to these iconic keepsakes by spotlighting them on their own cup.

Celebrating the Big Mac: It's International Big Mac Day! How to get a $2 Big Mac at McDonald's

McDonald's near me in Delaware

Bear

1401 Governors Place

Bethany Beach

1 Addy Road

Bridgeville

18733 Sussex Highway

Camden

60 East Street

Claymont

2702 Philadelphia Pike

Delmar

38667 Sussex Highway

Dover

1788N N. Dupont Highway

879 N. Dupont Highway

915 S. Dupont Highway

1424 Forrest Ave.

1704 E. Lebanon Road

Elsmere

101 New Road

Georgetown

20817 Dupont Blvd.

Harrington

16758 S. Dupont Highway

Middletown

580 Middletown Warwick Road

Milford

653 N. Dupont Blvd.

Millsboro

30255 Commerce Drive

24943 John J. Williams Highway

Milltown

4625 Kirkwood Highway

Newark

374 E. Main St.

815 S. College Ave.

New Castle area

3010 New Castle Ave.

101 S. Dupont Highway

700 N. Dupont Highway

Ogletown

4160 Ogletown Stanton Road

Rehoboth Beach

18878 Coastal Highway

Selbyville area

36218 Lighthouse Road

38215 Dupont Blvd.

Smyrna

333 N. Dupont Blvd.

Stanton

1790 W. Newport Pike

Wilmington

700 W. Fourth St.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: McDonald's nostalgic glasses giveaway. When they drop, how to get them
Sinead O'Dwyer is always one to watch, and that didn't change just because she moved from London Fashion Week to Copenhagen. If anything, the Irish designer's Danish debut was a level above her previous showcases, thanks partly to the city's glorious Opera Park in which the show was held, and in majority due to O'Dwyer's affinity for accessibility.

Working with a foundation that supports the visually impaired, the designer's showcase saw its usual slew of real models, including London-based models Jade O'Belle and Skye Standley, along with a blind model and her guide dog. This may well have been the first-ever guide dog to appear on a fashion week runway, something that -- now we've said it -- feels like a massive oversight on the industry's part, and yet, O'Dwyer is showing us all just how easy it is to be inclusive.

The designer also enlisted global superstar Mahalia to walk the runway, a prominent advocate for body diversity. At last, a celebrity on the runway that actually makes perfect sense.

Speaking to O'Dwyer post-show, she tells us: "Last season, we worked with a foundation to bring about an accessible runway for blind and low-vision people. This time, we not only wanted to continue that partnership but also, wanted to make it better. We spoke to the blind and low-vision guests and discussed the things that could be improved and then we implemented them."

She cites audio descriptions and touching fabric swatches as some of the ways in which the showcase was made more accessible and notes Lucy Edwards, the model who walked with the guide dog, as an instrumental advocate for the blind community.

Speaking about the decision to show in Copenhagen, O'Dwyer told us: "I love London, but I actually have a lot of ties to Denmark. My uncle and my wife are Danish, so it feels really lovely to be here. I've been here a lot since I met my wife, so it didn't feel totally out of water to be here."

Take a look at the showcase above and for more from CPHFW, check out our SS25 recap.
Skipping the Hudson Valley? We looked for best places to stop on your weekend road trip

Its a good bet you and a slew of other Lower Hudson Valley residents have skipped town  or will soon.

Maybe it's to trek to Block Island, Rhode Islands south shore, Newport, Cape Cod, Marthas Vineyard, Nantucket, the Hamptons, the Jersey Shore, or other spots. Data several years ago showed where Nantucket's summer visitors come from: Westchester County was among the more sizeable dots on the map.

But what restaurants and attractions can be found off the beaten path in those summer destinations? And if slogging through traffic to get there, where to stop along the route for a lobster roll, fish n chips or fried clams  just to stay in the traveling mood?

Heres a guide to some gems in the typical vacation spots, culled from online searches, online travel guides, commenters' recommendations and various published articles. (If skipping the driving, JetBlue goes to Nantucket from Westchester County Airport. And Seastreak's ferry service, which you can board in Manhattan, makes multi-hour trips to points including Long Island, Rhode Island, Cape Cod, Marthas Vineyard, and Nantucket).

A taste of Connecticut: About 62.6 miles from Westchester

You hit the highway, bound for lobster rolls and clambakes, only to get mired in traffic right out of the gate. So, maybe take a break (and get a preview of what youll be eating soon anyway). Some possibilities:

South County shoreline sure to please: About 132 miles from Westchester

Rhode Island vacation locales tend to be in two areas: South County shoreline communities such as Watch Hill, Charlestown, and Narragansett and, on the states eastern side, waterfront places such as Newport and Little Compton. And, of course, Block Island. They call it the Ocean State for a reason.

Watch Hill, an affluent enclave in Westerly, just over Connecticuts border, includes Taylor Swift among homeowners, the USA TODAY Networks Providence Journal reported. Watch Hill has premiere places such as five-star resort Ocean House, but also hidden gems such as Flying Horse Carousel. It's said to be the countrys oldest, continuously operating, free-flying carousel.

Theres also the ruins of Fort Mansfield at Napatree Point, and several galleries and antique stores.

In low-key Charlestown, along with plenty of beach theres Ninigret Park, with its playground, ballfields and courts, a bicycle trail, swimming area, and nature observatory. Check out the towns trails for hiking, including Charlestown Moraine Preserve and Tucker Woods Preserve. The town also has an indigenous-cuisine restaurant whose chef was recently a James Beard-awarded best chef winner. The eatery, Sly Fox Den Too, also made USA TODAY's list of best restaurants in the country earlier this year.

Narragansett has the town beach and its iconic The Towers, and other sandy expanses such as Scarborough State Beach. Theres also Point Judith Lighthouse, built in 1816.

Fly or drive from Lower Hudson Valley: Summer travel ideas for foodies, dog-lovers and more

Block Island or bust: 171 miles from Westchester

About nine miles off the mainland, Block Island is named for a Dutch explorer and officially the town of New Shoreham.

If catching the Block Island Ferry from Narragansett's Point Judith, there are various areas to park and leave the car and go aboard, the USA TODAY Networks Providence Journal reported. One type of ferry  which carries cars (for which reservations are hard to come by unless done well in advance) but also people going without a car  takes about an hour to get there. A fast ferry  no cars  does it in about a half-hour.

You arrive on island, and the Victorian-style National Hotel catches the eye. And, over at Ballards beach resort, theres the "Naked Lobster" lobster roll.

But for something off the touristy path, go to the Block Island Historical Society. A number of events are coming, including an Aug. 15 "Moonlight Cemetery Tour," for which tickets are $25, and an Aug. 29 "The Battle of Point Judith" event that is free and focuses on a perhaps lesser known fight between U.S. and Nazi Germany ships in which a U-Boat was sunk off Point Judith, Rhode Island, in 1945.

Theres also the simple gem of a great view: Head to the Mohegan Bluffs, which gazes toward Long Islands eastern tip.

Pretty nice in Newport: 167 miles from Westchester

In the state's East Bay, theres famed Newport, where late-19th-Century, Gilded Age wealth  think Vanderbilts and Astors  built massive Bellevue Avenue summer cottages. These mansions are now museums, open for tours through the Preservation Society of Newport County. Grandest of all is the Breakers. Tickets are $29 for an adult and $10 for ages 6 to 12.

Whether you tour any of those, you can always walk along a path  for free  that runs along the coast to catch the mansions and their great lawns, with the craggy rocks and waves to the other side. For swimming, beaches in Newport and neighboring Middletown abound.

Premier Newport places to stay include the Castle Hill Inn, which overlooks the water, and the Francis Malbone House. But as with any of the hot vacation spots, reservations may be needed. Among other inns, hotels and bed and breakfasts is a lighthouse you can stay in, with reservations: The Rose Island Lighthouse.

For eats, there's Brick Alley Pub, the The Mooring, and The Red Parrot. Others include Giusto, Scratch Kitchen & Catering, and Franklin Spa.

On the way in or out of Newport, consider stops in Warren and Bristol, two historic towns with notable architecture, and dine at various locations of Blount's fried-clams and other seafood excellence.

BARNSTABLE 06/02/24 Beach heather fills the dunes with color surrounding the Sandy Neck Lighthouse overlooking Barnstable Harbor. Steve Heaslip/Cape Cod Times

Keep calm on Cape Cod: About 238 miles from Westchester

Massachusetts' Cape Cod National Seashore is about 68 square miles, with nearly 40 miles of beaches. Its famous hook shape seen on maps, the cape runs from towns such as Bourne and Sandwich to the northernmost Provincetown.

A few gems away from all those beach days:

10.7-mile Shining Sea Bikeway, which affords view of Vineyard Sound, cranberry bogs and more. It runs from Falmouth. to Woods Hole

Nobska Lighthouse, features several "twilight tours" in August, in Woods Hole

Whydah Pirate Museum, Opened in 2016, its website said it "houses the largest collection of pirate artifacts recovered from a single shipwreck anywhere in the world." West Yarmouth, admission from $18.

John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, which focuses on Kennedy and his family's connection to Cape Cod.

From Cape Cod's Hyannis or Woods Hole, catch a ferry to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket, either by the quasi-public Steamship Authority or the private Hy-Line.

Cape Air flies people to the islands (in little planes), also from Hyannis.

Make merry in Martha's Vineyard: About 252 miles from Westchester

Seven miles off Cape Cod, it's been a favored spot of celebrities, literary titans, and former Presidents Barack Obama and (Westchester County's) Bill Clinton. "The Vineyard has six towns  from Edgartown to Chilmark to Aquinnah  and is where much of Steven Spielbergs classic Jaws, with its fictional Amity Island, was filmed.

Places such as The Black Dog are well known, and check out the gingerbread houses in Oak Bluffs. But culled from online articles and commenters, here are their suggestions of spots worth checking out:

Polly Hill Arboretum: The grounds are open year-round, with rare trees and shrubs, and there are plants for sale.

MV Glassworks: Its founders shape glass into art and want to help other artists in their endeavors, its website said.

Granary Gallery: In West Tisbury, it's said to to be the island's oldest art gallery  here's an online look.

As for any debate over the island's lobster rolls, several online folks touted Menemsha Fish Market.

Nantucket is never a bad idea: About 269 miles from Westchester

Thirty miles off Cape Cod, the hook-shaped island with cobblestoned downtown streets is a town, island and county all in one, and a key setting in Herman Melvilles Moby Dick. Melville called it an "elbow of sand." President Joe Biden and family spend Thanksgivings there. The ferry brings you into the harbor, with Brant Point lighthouse greeting you.

Surfside Beach is a busy, louder spot. And catching sunsets in the islands Madaket section is renowned, but the area is probably packed. (If you go for the sunsets, stop at Millies for eats and drinks).

For something popular but more forgiving, give Cisco Beach a try. Its known for impressive surf. It now has a main parking area. No promises, but another possible Cisco place to park: If riding a bike, driving, or riding the Wave (the islands bus service that goes to points all over the island), head south on Hummocks Pond Road, go left onto Heller Way, then right onto Austine Locke Way. Toward the end of that, people have been known to find parking and walk to the beach.

For a gem, check out what the Maria Mitchell Association offers. See the stars from its two observatories. Visit its aquarium, and learn about Maria  pronounced Mariah  a 19th Century astronomer, naturalist and educator who even discovered a comet known as Miss Mitchells Comet.

Coming out of downtown, go south about 6.5 miles on Milestone Road to 'Sconset (what everyone calls the village of Siasconset): The dainty cottages, covered in roses at points during summer, are not to be missed.

For dining, SeaGrille has been known to offer great food that both year-round islanders and summer visitors love. For affordability, there's the Downy Flake  have the doughnuts  and Faregrounds. At the high end are places such as Cru, which deposits diners out on a dock, The White Elephant, and Toppers at the Wauwinet, the latter two also being prominent hotels.

People enjoy the weather on Cooper beach, September 30, 2020 in the Hamptons.

Prefer to stay in NY? Have a Hamptons weekend

You're Hamptons-bound. Packed with celebrities and the Northeast's most expensive houses (one's listed for $125 million)  and known for traffic jams on the way that put the looonnnng in Long Island Expressway  the East End offers hidden gems, too.

Check out the Pollock-Krasner House, where artist Jackson Pollock lived and work and now a museum, in the hamlet of Spring.

Or go to LongHouse Reserve, a 16-acre expanse with outdoor sculptures  all told, more than 60 outdoor works.

Affordability is very relative in the Hamptons, but for dining on online recommendation is Estia's, in Sag Harbor.

High-end eateries include Nick & Toni's, in East Hampton; Topping Rose House, an inn and restaurant in Bridgehampton; 1770, an East Hampton restaurant and inn; and Almond in Bridgehampton.

As for lobster rolls, purveyors include Bostwicks Chowder House and Duryea's.

Headed the other way? Try the Jersey Shore: 116 miles from Westchester

You drove the other direction out of Westchester  venturing down the shore in New Jersey. That means destinations such as Point Pleasant, Sea Isle City, Brigantine, Spring Lake, and Avalon. It's about 141 miles of oceanfront, from Perth Amboy to Cape May.

Besides the famed boardwalks, beaches and Cape May's Victorian houses, online guides and articles suggest some under-the-radar things to check out:

The Visitors Center opened in May of 2015, and contains exhibits that highlight the natural beauty and historical significance of the park.

If you want to swim in New Jersey but skip the traffic, the USA TODAY Networks Bergen Daily Record has a list of non-Jersey Shore alternatives.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Weekend road trip out of Westchester NY: Where to stop, what to see
On July 10th, 2023, my father died. He was 94 years old. Heres the eulogy I gave at his funeral.

When it was time for my mother to give birth to my older brother, Craig, she and my father headed to the hospital. But it turns out she wasnt quite ready to give birth  she ended up being in labor for 26 hours.

Apparently, my father wasnt thrilled that they had gone to the hospital so early because it meant they were charged an extra day.

I suspect my mother wasnt thrilled about being in labor for 26 hours either.

So four years later, when my mom was pregnant with me, she told my dad, Its time. We need to go to the hospital.

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And my dad said, Are you sure? Because I dont want us to be charged for an extra day again.

Im sure, my mom said.

Its not too long till midnight, my dad said. Lets wait just a bit longer.

Id like to have been a fly on that wall, to see the death-glare that Im sure my mother gave my father right then.

Anyway, this is the story of how I came to be born at 12:20 am in the morning, mere minutes after they checked into the hospital.

Now you might think this is an odd story to tell in the eulogy for my father Harold Hartinger  the story of how, this one time at least, he was a little cheap.

But Im going somewhere with this. So remember this story, because Ill come back to it later.

My father, about ten years ago. (Cheri Greenfield)

In the meantime, here are some other stories about my father.

When I was a boy, I had a cat, Felix. My dad loved that cat, and the cat loved him back. In fact, every morning, when my dad went jogging, the cat would jog with him, at least across the street, where the cat would climb up onto the neighbors fence to observe the neighborhood while my dad jogged his two miles. Then when he returned, the cat would hop down, and the two of them would go back into the house to have breakfast.

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My dad and my cat going jogging together across the street was pretty much the most adorable thing imaginable  even if I was a little jealous that my cat seemed to like my dad even more than he liked me.

A few years later, a black family moved into the neighborhood, and one of our neighbors turned out to be a racist asshole  ranting about property values and all the rest. I apologize for using the word asshole here in church, but Im pretty sure even God would agree that its appropriate in this particular case.

Anyway, when my dad heard about our neighbor, he said to my brother and me, No! That is not who we are. And he invited the new family to dinner and incorporated them into our lives  which he would have done even without the racist neighbor, Im sure.

A few years after that, when I came out as gay, my father said, I dont understand. Then he went out and bought a bunch of books on the topic, read them all, and came back to me and said, Okay, I get it now. And by the way, I love you.

Which is pretty much the most on-brand thing my father could possibly have done. Any excuse to read a bunch of books.

Cheri Greenfield

After I met my husband, Michael, my father and the two of us would be around town, and wed run into friends of my dad, and my dad would say, This is my son Brent and my other son Michael.

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This seemed a little evasive to Michael and me, and I think some people were understandably confused, because they didnt think my dad had a third son named Michael. But Michael and I knew my dads heart was in the right place.

But then a few years later, out of the blue, he introduced us as: This is my son Brent and his husband, Michael. And thats what he always said after that.

And then a few years after that, a friend told me that he had laid down the law at his retirement community, telling another resident, Look, my son is gay, and if you continue to talk so negatively about gay people, I refuse to sit with you at dinner anymore.

Keep in mind that this is a guy who was born in a small town in North Dakota in 1929, in a house that didnt have running water. When I think about all the changes he saw in his life, it makes my head spin.

Lets talk about my mother a moment. My parents, Harold and Mary Anne, were absolutely crazy in love with each other. They were also each others best friends.

My parents on their wedding day. (Wes Nuxoll)

But in one of lifes cruel ironies, when my mom came down with Early Onset Alzheimers, my father was the first person she forgot. She would pull me aside and say, Brent, can I ask you a question?

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Sure, Id say.

Who is that man over there?

Thats your husband, Harold, Id say.

He seems awfully nice, shed say.

He is, Id always agree.

Despite the fact that she didnt recognize him, my father took care of my mother for three years. When that finally got too hard, we moved her into a home for people with dementia, and he visited her every single day.

I was the last person my mother recognized, and right until the end, shed always pull me aside and ask, Brent, can I ask you a question? Who is that man who visits me? Hes awfully nice, isnt he?

Yes, Id say. He is.

My brother Craig and me at the cemetery. (Michael Jensen)

Seven years ago, Michael and I decided to leave America to continuously travel the world as nomads. But I felt very guilty, leaving my father.

I met with him to tell him what we were thinking about, and I started to apologize, and he said, Are you worried I wont want you to go? Ill miss you, of course, but Ill be angry if you dont do this! It sounds fantastic. If I were younger, Id do it too.

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And, of course, because I was raised Catholic, this made me feel guiltier than ever.

So. These are some of the stories I wanted to share with you about my dad. What did we learn?

We learned he was gentle enough to love cats, and be loved by cats in return.

We learned he was a man of deep integrity who never compromised his core principles.

We learned he was open-minded  and strong and confident enough to change his mind in the face of new information.

And we learned that he was a selfless man who always put other people first.

But remember that first story I told, about the night I was born? I told you Id come back to that. We also learned that at least that one time, he was a little cheap.

But I actually think that story is just as important as all the others, because it means he wasnt perfect. My dad wasnt Jesus Christ  he wasnt a saint like the ones on the walls of this church.

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He was flawed, just like the rest of us. He screwed up  at least that one time.

Harold Hartinger, my father, was a human being. And his very occasional flaws are a part of the picture of who he was.

But the rest of the picture? And I say this not because its a eulogy, but because its one hundred percent true.

Harold Hartinger, my father, was also probably the best human being Ive ever known.
National Whataburger Day is Thursday, Aug. 8, coinciding with the restaurant's 74th birthday.

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, more than 1,000 Whataburger restaurants across the country serve the never-frozen beef on its notable toasted five-inch bun.

In honor of National Whataburger Day, here is more on the history of this Texas treasure:

Whataburger birthday shake? Details to know

To celebrate the day, Whataburger is gifting fans a limited-edition birthday shake for free exclusively through the Whataburger App while supplies last.

The orange shake, topped with white whipped cream and orange sprinkles  a tribute to the restaurant's legendary colors  will be available from midnight to 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 8.

More: A GCU study claims this is the most popular Dairy Queen Blizzard flavor in Texas

What time does Whataburger stop serving breakfast? Facts to know

Breakfast runs from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m.

The chain's headquarters moved from Corpus Christi to San Antonio in 2009, and most locations  741  are in Texas.

The restaurant employs more than 51,000 workers and serves up to 60 million customers, according to its website.

Most restaurants are open 24/7, 364 days a year - the chain closes on Christmas Day.

Where was the first Whataburger?

On Aug. 8, 1950, Harmon Dobson opened the worlds first Whataburger  a humble burger stand  on Ayers Street in Corpus Christi, Texas.

A black-and-white photo of the first established restaurant gives a glimpse into the past: Whataburgers were sold for 35 cents, and milkshakes were sold for 15 cents.

After one bite customers would say, What a burger, inspiring the restaurant's name, according to its website.

The chain grew quickly, particularly in the '70s, when Whataburger expanded to more than 200 restaurants nationwide. In 1971, its first drive-thru was installed, and jalapenos and onion rings were added to the menu.

In 2001, the 77th Texas Legislature officially recognized Whataburger be designated as a Texas Treasure.'

The first Whataburger opened on Aug. 8, 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

When is National Whataburger Day?

National Whataburger Day is Aug. 8.

Whataburger architecture

The restaurant had a different look decades ago when drive-ins and sleek automobiles were all the rage.

Its iconic orange and white striped A-frame design emerged in 1960 - the first one built in Odessa, Texas. Remnants of these structures can still be found across Texas.

The first A-frame Whataburger was built in 1960 in Odessa, Texas.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: National Whataburger Day 2024: How to get free birthday shake
Aug. 7 (UPI) -- A Massachusetts man is offering a reward for the return of his wallet after it snatched by a thieving seagull outside of a grocery store.

Noah Karberg of Nantucket said he made a trip to the Stop & Shop after a day of fishing on the island.

"I was in a fishing shirt and board shorts, so no pockets," he told NBC Boston.

Karberg said he placed his phone and wallet in the tray on top of his shopping cart, where they remained while he was loading groceries into his truck.

"I take the last couple of bags around to the backseat, come back around to the shopping cart, and there is a gull sitting on the cart, and right in front of me, grabs my wallet, flies off!"

Karberg captured video as the seagull made its way to the roof of a nearby car wash and started going through the wallet's contents.

"It was like a gull with an agenda," he said. "Tossed the cash and went straight for my Amex."

Karberg wrote in a local Facebook group that anyone who finds the wallet can keep any cash that remains inside and he is offering an additional $100 cash reward for the return of his license and cards.

"I have had a lot of people reach out to me, say they were sorry for me, but it was really funny," he said. "It has all been in good fun. The island has a pace in the summer. It can be frantic, people can get burned out, and I think this was a little bit of good fun that everyone had."
Things to do in Wichita Falls this weekend

The last weekend before school starts at Wichita Falls ISD is approaching, but there is still plenty of opportunities for summertime fun before the school bells start ringing again.

The River Bend Center's Astronaut Adventures takes off Thursday. Wichita Falls is adding a third farmers market to its lineup with a new event Friday, and folks can kick their heels up at the 50 Plus Zone's Friday night dance featuring a live band. On Sunday, a fundraiser is slated for a local artist who suffered a stroke.

Here is more of what's in store Thursday through Sunday in the area.

Thursday, Aug. 8

"Wild About Texas" exhibit in Art Alley at the Museum of North Texas History, 720 Indiana Avenue. Artwork from local artist, writer and observer Laura M. Gillis, August artist in residence, is on display. Museum hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday.

RSVP by 4 p.m. for Desk and Derrick Club of Wichita Falls meeting. RSVP to Lauren Martin, lmartin@gunnoil.com or 940-723-5585. The meeting will be at noon Aug. 21 at The Forum. The speakers will be Wendy Sparks, ADDC president and Michelle Burgard, central region director who will give an update on central region and test ADDC knowledge through Bingo.

Astronaut Adventures 4-6 p.m. at River Bend Nature Center, 2200 Third St. Thursday nature program that is free for all ages.

Wichita Falls Art Association Members Showcase: Opening reception 5:30-7 p.m. Kemp Center for the Arts, 1300 Lamar St.

Terrarium Treasures 6 p.m. Smith's Gardentown 4940 Seymour Highway.

Happy Hour & Lux Linx Pop 4 p.m. tasting room opens and 6 p.m. pop up starts at OG Cellars at The Holt, 600 Eighth St.

WFBC Trivia Thursday-60s Edition 7 p.m. Wichita Falls Brewing Company, 701 Indiana Ave.

Summer's Last Blast 7:30 p.m. in Vernon starts with the Main Street Orbison Car Show at corner of Main and Olive streets and the Chamber of Commerce Power Wheels Event at Waggoner Bank, 1818 Texas St. Events continue through Sunday for this annual automobile celebration.

"Masquerade Crane" by Laura M. Gillis, August artist in residence at the Museum of North Texas History, is part of her "Wild About Texas" exhibit.

Friday, Aug. 9

Farmers Market Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bill Bartley Family YMCA, 5001 Barley Drive.

Dexter School tax auction preview and preregistration 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 2201 Speedway Avenue. Live auction is 10 a.m. Saturday.

Bowties & Tiaras 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Friday night dance with the Pony Express 7-9:30 p.m. 50 Plus Zone Ballroom, second floor, 600 11th St. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets: $7 for 50 Plus Zone members and $12 for the general public.

"Disney's Aladdin Jr." 7-8:30 p.m. at the Wichita Theatre, 919 Indiana Ave. Tickets available online or at the door.

The Four of Us-Jazz at OG Cellars at The Holt 7 p.m. 600 Eighth St.

Hazel Live at 6th Street Winery 7:30 p.m. 600 Sixth St.

Hazel

Let's GLOW Crazy Bungee Party for adults 7:30 p.m. Weightless, 1110 Eighth St.

Saturday, Aug. 10

Bee Awareness Day 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Kids Club Bee Week 10 a.m.-noon Wichita Falls Farmers Market, 807 Austin St.

Downtown Farmers Market Celebration 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 713 Ohio Ave. Celebrating the farmers market as a vital part of the community providing access to fresh food. Music by Spare Time.

Public impound auction 9 a.m. Mike's Towing Service, 3205 Industrial Drive. Registration starts at 8 a.m. Preview of units 9-10 a.m. Auction begins at 10:07 a.m.

Blush & Honey Back to School Event with Cookie Era Pop-up 10 a.m. Blush & Honey Boutique, 2915 Bob Ave.

Clear the Shelter Event 10 a.m.-2 p.m. city of Wichita Falls Animal Services, 1207 Hatton Road.

One-year Tattiversary 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Burial Tattoo, 724 Indiana Ave.

Back to School Bash noon-4 p.m. Beard + Shears, 4706 Brookdale Drive, Suite 2. Offering $15 back-to-school haircuts for walk-ins only.

"Disney's Aladdin Jr." 1-2:30 p.m. and 5-6:30 p.m. at the Wichita Theatre, 919 Indiana Ave. Tickets available online or at the door.

Camp Fire Pool Party 4-6 p.m. Harrell Park Pool, 411 Fran Lane.

August Book Club by Silent Book Club//Wichita Falls 5:30-7 p.m. Frank & Joe's Coffee House, 2919 Bob Ave.

The opening and reception for "Momento," a juried exhibition, is 6:30-8 p.m. Saturday at 9th Street Studios, 920 Ninth St.

"Momento" opening and reception for this fifth annual juried exhibition 6:30-8 p.m. 9th Street Studios, 920 Ninth St.

End of Summer Party with DJ 6GAV 9 p.m. The Deep End, 5120 Greenbriar Road

King George-A Tribute to George Strait with special guest Hope MacGregor 9:30 p.m. The Iron Horse Pub, 615 Eighth St.

Sunday, Aug. 11

Mini & Me Aerial for toddlers to teens 1 p.m. Weightless, 1110 Eighth St. Includes a spot for one adult and one child sharing an aerial hammock.

"Disney's Aladdin Jr." is on stage at the Wichita Theatre in shows through Aug. 18.

Benefit for Kim Hunter 1 p.m. Legends Roadhouse, 3305 Sheppard Access Road. Hunter, a local artist, suffered a stroke and needs some help. BBQ plate for $10 donation and a lineup of musical performances.

Tiny Wellness Office Open House 1-3 p.m. 2909 Bob Ave. Meet lactation consultants and enjoy refreshments. Permanent jewelry offered by Loved & LINK'D.

"Disney's Aladdin Jr." 3-4:30 p.m. at the Wichita Theatre, 919 Indiana Ave. Tickets available online or at the door.

WFBC Music Bingo Sunday-60s Edition 5 p.m. Wichita Falls Brewing Company, 701 Indiana Ave.

More: Project Back to School Roundup draws large crowd

More: H-I-S Paint opens Wichita Falls store

Trish Choate is the interim editor for the Wichita Falls Times Record News, San Angelo Standard-Times and Abilene Reporter-News. Contact Trish with news tips at tchoate@gannett.com. Read her recent work here. Her X handle is @Trishapedia.

This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Things to do in Wichita Falls this weekend, Aug. 8-11
With violence unfolding across the UK amid a series of far-right riots, Amazon has come under fire for allowing Tommy Robinson clothing to be sold on its platform.

While political leaders call for calm, The Independent has found a series of items in support of the far-right leader, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, which are available for less than 20.

T-shirts saying #FreeTommy along with an image of Robinsons face with the words Free Speech across his mouth are being sold for 17.99, in a variety of colours and for both men and women. Scoop neck, V-neck and baseball tee versions of the tops are all available.

Searches for items relating to the English Defence League, show no results, suggesting that they are not available on the site.

The founder of the English Defence League is currently on holiday in Cyprus, where gym selfies have helped trace him to a 400 a night resort.

Amazon is selling t-shirts supporting Tommy Robinson while race riots erupt (Amazon UK)

The anti-Islam activist has been accused of stoking far-right riots across the UK from outside the country while holed up in the Mediterranean hotel. Racist and Islamophobic violent attacks have been recorded in footage shared to social media, with Muslim cemeteries desecrated in Burnley, Lancashire.

An Amazon spokesperson said: As a store, weve chosen to offer a very broad range of viewpoints, including products that may be disagreeable, and we have guidance for our customers and selling partners about the items allowed for sale in our store.

Other items in support of leaders accused of peddling anti-immigrant rhetoric include Nigel Farage. The Reform Party leader was accused of stoking tensions in a video shared after the Southport murders in which he questioned whether the truth was being withheld by police.

He also claimed that a mass riot in Leeds represented the politics of the subcontinent, prompting a backlash from local Labour MPs.

The Reform leader and Brexit campaigner has a number of items available in support of him, including t-shirts, life size cardboard cutouts and mugs.

Nigel Farage merch also remains available on the online retailer (Amazon)

Put Farage in Charge reads one t-shirt with the MPs face plastered across a Union Jack. Another reads, Make Britain Great Again.

Farage and Robinson have denied inciting hatred or the riots with Robinson imploring his followers to be peaceful as he insists they are on the verge of something massive.

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer issued a stark warning to racist far-right thugs rioting in British towns and cities with a guarantee they will face swift justice and the full force of the law.

In a statement to the nation, the prime minister told those behind scenes in Hull, Halifax, Liverpool, London, Southport and Rotherham: I guarantee, you will regret it.

Stand Up to Racism strongly condemned a dangerous, violent minority for attempting to create a moral panic around immigration and destabilise the country after the election of the new Labour government.
Beer is the drink of choice in Iceland these days but, just 35 years ago, it was banned in the country. Iceland went through a period of prohibition where the manufacture and sale of alcohol was made illegal. In 1915, 60% of Iceland's population supported the total ban  but in the 20 years that followed, wine and spirits were made legal again. But not beer. For a long 74 years, beer above 2.25% was banned in Iceland until 1989.

The prohibitions experienced by many countries in the 1900's were motivated by religious, political, and safety reasons, with the primary desire to control the issues in society that stemmed from drunkenness. Although beer has a lower alcohol content than wine and spirits, in Icelandic society, it was thought of as a cheap gateway alcohol that would lead young people to drink more. Plus, at the same time as Iceland's prohibition, it was becoming independent from Denmark, a country that drank beer heavily. Therefore, beer was viewed as an unpatriotic beverage. There was always a sneaky way to get around prohibition laws, and true beer-lovers in Iceland chose to buy a low-percentage beer and mix in a shot of brennivin, aka black death, a harsh vodka-like liquor flavored with caraway.

Read more: 15 Popular Hard Seltzer Brands, Ranked Worst To Best

Beer Is Popular In Iceland Today

Icelandic beer cooling down in the snow - Sasinparaksa/Getty Images

If you visit Iceland today, you can now cheers by saying skal with an ice-cold bjor (the Icelandic word for beer) in hand. The country has now happily incorporated beer into its culture, with more craft and microbreweries popping up in recent years. The country's first microbrewery, Kaldi, opened in 2006, and this brand is now internationally known. You can certainly find a standard ale or lager in Iceland, but many breweries proudly add local ingredients to beer, like berries, algae, herbs, and of course, glacier water.

Beer is perfectly legal in the country, but it's important to note that Iceland still has some restrictions on alcohol. The country's drinking age is 20 for all types of alcohol, and the only places alcohol can be purchased by individuals are government-operated stores or duty-free stores in the airport. If you're a zythophile visiting Iceland, try to plan your visit to the country around March 1st; this is the day that beer was made legal again and it is celebrated as B-Day, or Bjor Day. If you plan on checking out Iceland's famous lagoons, some of them, like the Blue Lagoon and Secret Lagoon, have bars where you can snag a local brew and sip on it in the water!

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
ROME, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Italian lower house on Wednesday gave its final approval to measures aimed at easing the prison overcrowding.

The law passed with 153 votes in favor, 89 against, and 1 abstention, after being already approved by the Senate.

The new measures were first introduced by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's cabinet in early July via a decree. The move was made amid concerns about a spike in suicide cases among prison inmates across Italy.

The Italian prison ombudsman has reported that 61 prisoners took their own lives up to Aug. 6 this year, "a high figure" compared to 40 cases in the same period in 2023.

As of July 31, Italy's prisons hosted 61,133 inmates compared to the official capacity of 51,207, according to statistics by the Ministry of Justice.

Under the law, low-security centers such as therapeutic communities will accommodate some types of prisoners like drug addicts and people serving short sentences or jailed for non-violent crimes.

Common prisoners -- those not serving their sentence in high-security jails -- will be granted 6 phone calls per month instead of 4, in addition to other minor measures to ease their living conditions.

The new law will streamline procedures for early release and allow the recruiting of 1,000 more jail wardens and managers to boost personnel by 2026 since understaffing is another problem affecting Italy's jail system.

Italy's prison staff consists of some 37,700 officers, way short of the 42,850 people needed, according to the Department of Prison Administration.

In 2013, the European Court of Human Rights fined Italy for violating inmates' rights by confining them to too small places.

At the European Union level, some 11 countries reported prison overcrowding in 2022, according to the latest data by Eurostat. When looking at the occupancy rate -- the number of prisoners relative to the capacity of the prison, multiplied by 100 -- Cyprus (225.9), France (119.0), Belgium (118.1), Romania (112.2), and Italy (111) had the worst figures. 
Generosity, a giving spirit and an awareness that all humans deserve love was instilled in Miranda Jennings, a 2024 Commonwealth Heroine awardee from Winchendon, early in her life, modeled for her by her parents, a prison psychologist and an educator.

Miranda Jennings of Winchendon, one of 125 Commonwealth Heroines recognized for their community work, wears several hats, all to improve the quality of life for residents of her hometown and neighboring Gardner.

They are my inspiration, Jennings said. It was routine for her to volunteer with her family at soup kitchens and shelters. They instilled the idea that we are all one people, that all deserve compassion and love.

At 16, her mother filled out the paperwork for Miranda to join a service trip to Latin America, sending her to Nicaragua. She later signed up on her own to travel to Central America through Bridges to Community and spent years in Nicaragua building housing, establishing microlending networks and working on projects involving water.

Thats how I got my feet wet, Jennings said, explaining that she developed a passion for nonprofit work and excelled at creating connections between people and organizations. I decided I wanted to do the work in my own community, so I came home to Winchendon.

Once back in the States, she got a job teaching Spanish at a private high school. There she launched a service and leadership program to engage her students. That work connected her with local service organizations and advocacy groups, a boon when Winchendon lost its only grocery store in 2013 and prompted the community to act.

It propelled me, and other local residents, to strive to make bigger changes, Jennings said, adding thats how HEAL, which stands for Hope, Empowerment, Access, Love, was created

Jennings serves as a project coordinator at the HEAL Collaborative, a community movement focused on improving the health and quality of life for residents in Winchendon and neighboring Gardner. That position is funded through Heywood Hospital in Gardner. Partners of the collaborative include both citys administrations, the two school districts, Heywood Hospital and local social and action organizations.

But thats just one of her hats. Jennings is also a force at the Winchendon Community Action Committee and Winchendon Council on Aging, working what she called multiple gigs, one way to make ends meet. But for her, it's more than earning a paycheck.

Jennings looks at the bigger picture in her mission to make change, transcending the label of charity work.

Were not going to solve hunger, even with empowerment work, Jennings said, explaining that the age-old adage of teaching a man to fish so that he can feed himself for his entire life does not apply anymore.

Its a matter of access, she said, explaining that if the man has no access to where the fish are, his fishing knowledge doesnt matter.

Thats just one step, you have to look further upstream to find the root causes of why he has no access, Jennings said. She feels that part of her mission is to ensure access in Winchendon for community residents to address their needs.

While the town appears isolated, abutting the state line with New Hampshire, theres an energy in the community, excitement that comes with change.

It starts with Community Action Center, the organization that serves as the catalyst and hub from which other projects radiate out, including the food pantry, economic empowerment hub, job skills training, youth council, youth empowerment  all designed to advance the well-being, health and security of both communities.

Teenagers wanted to recognize Pride Month, and the community worked together to make it happen. Municipal officials in Winchendon proclaimed June as Pride Month and urged all residents to actively promote the principles of equality and liberty, in the document issued June 1. The youth council is also working on a local gathering place, installing the Sunshine Cafe in the bowling alley, equipped with a commercial kitchen. It also hosts a farm stand ripe with local produce.

Its taken many people working together, Jennings said.

Rep. Jonathan "Jon" Zlotnik, D-Gardner, nominated Miranda Jennings as a Commonwealth Heroine, 2024

While Jennings was flattered and gratified to learn she had been nominated by Rep. Jonathan Zlotnik, D-Gardner for the award bestowed by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, she was even happier to learn that a colleague, Ayn Yeagle of Princeton, was also uplifted by a legislator, Rep. Kimberly Ferguson, R-Holden.

Its good for the region, Jennings said.

Jennings first met Zlotnik as a teacher, inviting the state lawmaker to her classrooms to discuss veterans issues. They also coincided at a fundraiser to benefit the victims of Hurricane Maria. Zlotnik became a vocal advocate of HEAL, tracking down resources for the service organizations in the community.

In nominating Jennings, Zlotnik said, Miranda has gone above and beyond in her time with the Winchendon CAC and the HEAL Winchendon Initiative. He praised her work and her service as the executive director of the Winchendon Community Action Committee, a position she has held since 2022.

Her personal goal in this position is to ensure that every person that visits the CAC feels welcomed, dignified and inspired to be the change the want to see in their lives, Zlotnik said, Through her roles in both organizations she has brought support and positive changes to the residents of the Town of Winchendon, truly making an impactful difference in her community.

One of her latest projects was to secure a transportation innovation grant for the mostly rural community, where at least 13% of residents, many elderly, disabled or impoverished, lack cars or other means of transportation.

All this would not be possible without my husband; he does everything so I can do this, Jennings said of Jared DArcy, with whom she shares her life and their two children; an 11-year-old daughter and a 7-year-old son, and a foster daughter, now 21.

It takes a village, and Mr. DArcy is my village, Jennings said. A Jane Austen fan, Jennings is still in awe that she married Mr. Darcy of "Pride and Prejudice" fame. She hopes to set the same example for her children that her parents set for her as she was growing up.

They come to community events and help stock the shelves at the food pantry, Jennings said, explaining that she hopes it normalizes the concept of giving back to the community and inspires generosity and innovation in her children.

Her mother and daughter accompanied her to the State House ceremony in June, where she and 124 other Massachusetts women were recognized and honored for their community work.

My mom was over the moon, Jennings said.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Miranda Jennings of Winchendon joins 2024 Commonwealth Heroines
'10 Million Names' project takes ABC News' Pierre Thomas to the plantation where his ancestors were enslaved

Genealogists and researchers spearhead the "10 Million Names" project, an ambitious initiative to identify every enslaved Black American by name. It led ABC News Senior Justice Correspondent Pierre Thomas to discover the West Virginia plantation where his ancestors were born into slavery.

ABC News is the exclusive media partner of the historic "10 Million Names" project, a moonshot endeavor that aims to use ancestry research to put a name to each enslaved person to not only acknowledge their dignity, but to connect their living descendants with their family history.

It has been more than 400 years since the first Africans were kidnapped and transported to North America as part of our nation's barbaric slave trade. Slavery was the backbone of America's economy for centuries, and this ugly legacy often makes it difficult for Black Americans to learn their true family history.

PHOTO: Pierre Thomas' journey to uncover family history of enslavement. (Library of Congress)

Thomas admits that he was previously reluctant to learn more about the institution of slavery and its impact on his ancestors for fear of the pain it would cause him.

Thomas journeyed to the outskirts of Huntington, West Virginia, to explore the sprawling land known as "Green Bottom," established in 1812 by then-Virginia Governor Wilson Nicholas.

"It feels odd. It feels strange," Thomas said. "Beautiful and scary, all in the same breath."

Dr. Cicero Fain, an author, Marshall University professor and a top expert on Black history in West Virginia, said the plantation had 80 to 100 enslaved people at its height.

"Welcome to the Jenkins Plantation, the ancestral home of your great-great-grandmother Adeline," Fain said to Thomas when the journalist reached the property.

According to the "10 Million Names" genealogists and researchers, Adeline, born in 1858, was likely the biological daughter of her enslaver -- Albert Gallatin Jenkins himself.

Thomas was shocked to learn that this plantation was under the reign of the infamous Jenkins. A Harvard graduate, a two-term congressman and a Confederate general, Jenkins was a staunch supporter of slavery. He kept humans imprisoned, treating them as little more than valuable livestock on his sprawling 4,500-acre estate.

PHOTO: Pierre Thomas' journey to uncover family history of enslavement. (ABC News)

In an 1860 speech on the House floor, Jenkins made it clear that he believed slavery was the natural order of things. He called the institution the alpha and the omega -- critical to the future of a prosperous America, especially in the South.

Five years before the 13th Amendment, Jenkins used his lengthy speech to firmly express his belief that even the idea of abolishing slavery was startling, alarming and evil. He stated that it would signify a huge loss of property to the South and said enslaved people would attempt to escape to freedom en masse upon hearing about the election of a Union president.

Making it clear that he viewed enslaved people purely as property, Jenkins laid down the cold-blooded economics of the slave trade, saying that 4 million enslaved people were estimated to be worth at least $3 billion.

"He had a primarily population of girls, older women and boys," Fain said of the plantation.

Records reveal that Jenkins made a regular habit of selling off the young adult males at their prime stage so that he could make the most money.

"Jenkins was cruel," Fain said. "The overseers that he hired ... even more cruel to the point of beating, using ... some kind of bat with nails in it ... to beat somebody, and then salting the wound afterwards."

Thomas noted that was challenging to hear details of the suffering people endured on the plantation.

"Many people think that most African Americans automatically say 'Oh yes, I want to know everything about where I come from,' but for others, the notion of slavery is a painful process," he said.

Besides working the land, cooking for themselves and their overseers, and being at Jenkins' beck and call, historic preservationist Karen Nance explains that the enslaved people also built the Jenkins home, brick by brick.

"It took about ten years. And the African Americans that were enslaved up here were the ones who built it," Nance said. "And so it took a long time because they had to fire the brick. So it was a whole lot of labor."

At nearby Marshall University in 2020, Jenkins' name was removed from what is now called the Education Building. Jenkins' portrait, which was painted in the 1950s, is still stored in the corner of the school's Special Collections department. It's managed by Lori Thompson, who shed more light on Jenkins' brutal treatment of the enslaved people.

"He would send out raider parties ... to specifically look for the people who have run away," Thompson said.

The existence of Jenkins' portrait reminded Thomas of the controversy over statues of Confederate figures in public spaces.

"It would be as if our Jewish brothers and sisters in Germany would suddenly be walking through town and there would be a statue of Hitler," he said.

PHOTO: Pierre Thomas' journey to uncover family history of enslavement. (ABC News)

After learning more about his heritage, Thomas spoke with Harvard University professor and "10 Million Names" scholar Vincent Brown about his mindset entering this journey versus how he feels now.

"This has been both a professional and a personal journey I've been on in recent weeks," Thomas said. "I guess I've been playing a psychological game with myself over time. I was proud of knowing that my people could overcome something as horrible as horrific as slavery, but I think intellectually I wanted to start my family's history with my grandmother."

Thomas highlighted the fact that he was able to look at the portrait of Jenkins, but he didn't know what Adeline or her mother Charlotte looked like. This was upsetting, and Brown noted that Black Americans don't have control over knowing their full history due to slavery. So they need to cherish the stories they have and pass them along.

"It's a story of triumph in the midst of evil," Thomas said.

He realized that without Charlotte and Adeline's bravery, his great-grandmother Sally Jefferson and grandmother Annie Bell Brown wouldn't have been born. Without them, Thomas' mother Helen Thomas, whom he credits with defining him as a man more than anyone else, wouldn't exist.

"For Adeline. Thank you. Thank you for the will to survive," he said. "Thank you for the will not to give up."

'10 Million Names' project takes ABC News' Pierre Thomas to the plantation where his ancestors were enslaved originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
13-year-old in critical condition after seemingly being hit by a vehicle in Cattaraugus County

13-year-old in critical condition after seemingly being hit by a vehicle in Cattaraugus County

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A 13-year-old boy is in critical condition after evidence indicates he was hit by a vehicle while riding a bicycle on State Route 62 in Cattaraugus County, New York State Police announced.

Just before 2:10 a.m. Tuesday, troopers responded to a 13-year-old male possibly being struck by a vehicle in the Town of Persia. His family had not been able to reach him by phone after he had failed to return home, police said. At 11 p.m. on Monday, troopers assisted the family in attempting to find him.

The boy was located on the side of the road on Route 62 with evidence and debris indicating he was struck by a vehicle that had left the scene, according to police. He was Mercy Flighted to Oishei Childrens Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

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Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
Its been 14 years since Utahs last execution. Why does it take so long to carry out a death sentence?

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Just after midnight on Thursday, Aug. 8, Taberon Honie is slated to be executed by lethal injection. His death will mark the first execution in Utah in 14 years.

Honie is among the six prisoners currently sitting on Utahs death row. Like the others, hes been there for decades as his case has gone through a lengthy appeals process.

Who is Taberon Honie? A timeline of the crime, recent proceedings that led to his scheduled execution

According to the Pew Research Center, death row inmates can make legal appeals to the sentence, including challenges to the way the execution is carried out or even to the sentence itself. It can take years for every appeal to make it through the court system.

For example, Honie, despite being convicted in 1999, did not exhaust his last appeal until this May, 25 years later. Even despite that, Honie continued to challenge the death sentence asking for a commutation hearing and even casting doubts on Utahs procedures.

While Honie will finally get his death sentence, the other five death row inmates are still waiting. The Utah Department of Corrections said the remaining offenders are at different stages of their legal challenges.

Each will ultimately spend a different amount of time waiting for the sentence to be fulfilled based on the legal proceedings and whether the inmate carries out the full extent of his appeals or decides to drop the litigation at any particular point in time, UDC said in a statement.

In the years since Honie was convicted of aggravated murder, only two other people have been executed in Utah. The last one happened in 2010, when Ronnie Lee Gardner was killed by firing squad.

Robin Maher, the executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center, said that in Utah and across the country, the use of the death penalty has decreased over the years, mostly as a result of changing public opinion.

I think the public has really lost interest in the death penalty, she told ABC4. Theyve lost confidence that it can be used accurately, and it costs a lot of money.

Richard Mauro, executive director of the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association, has worked on several death row cases in Utah. He said that roughly half the prisoners on death row have their death sentences overturned. This happened recently in the case of Douglas Lovell.

Last month, the Utah Supreme Court determined that Lovells attorneys were ineffective and failed to object to testimony at his sentencing about his ex-communication from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This was considered improper and prejudicial evidence.

These days, however, people facing the death penalty in Utah have much more effective legal representation, Mauro said. Additionally, guidelines have been updated on how to present mitigating evidence, which can be used to reduce the severity of a sentence.

You dont see many death sentences imposed today because theres a more sophisticated view of how you present mitigating evidence, Mauro said.

The result of these changes makes it so that juries have more information and prosecutors see alternatives to seeking the death penalty, such as long prison sentences and life without the possibility of parole. Yet, Mauro wonders whether the people currently on Utahs death row would be there if these updates were in place decades ago.

That group of people on death row is really an anomalous group, because it was really a lack of that information that was being presented at the time, he said.

While Utah was the first state to resume executions after the U.S. Supreme Court lifted its moratorium on the death penalty in the 1970s, it has executed far fewer prisoners than other states, such as Texas and Oklahoma.

For instance in Oklahoma, which has a population only slightly larger than Utah, 125 prisoners have been executed since 1976. The figure for Utah in that time period is seven. But following Honies execution Thursday, the number will be eight.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
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Credit:  Seascape Artifact Exhibits Inc.

Wreck-hunters have discovered the remains of a small 17th-century pirate ship, known as a Barbary corsair, in deep water between Spain and Morocco.

The wreck is "the first Algiers corsair found in the Barbary heartland," maritime archaeologist Sean Kingsley , the editor-in-chief of Wreckwatch magazine and a researcher on the find, told Live Science.

The vessel was heavily armed and may have been heading to the Spanish coast to capture and enslave people when it sank, its discoverers said.

But it was carrying a cargo of pots and pans made in the North African city of Algiers, probably so that it could masquerade as a trading vessel.

Florida-based company Odyssey Marine Exploration (OME) located the shipwreck in 2005 during a search for the remains of the 80-gun English warship HMS Sussex, which was lost in the area in 1694.

"As so often happens in searching for a specific shipwreck we found a lot of sites never seen before," Greg Stemm , the founder of OME and the expedition leader, told Live Science in an email.

Related: 10 of the most notorious pirates in history

The 2005 expedition also found the wrecks of ancient Roman and Phoenician ships in the area, Stemm said.

News of the corsair wreck is only being released now, in a new article by Stemm in Wreckwatch , after extensive historical research.

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A painting of a large ship being attacked by two smaller ships

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A colorful painting of men swordfighting on a ship

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An old etched illustration of a town square full of people

Dread pirates

The Barbary corsair pirates were predominantly Muslims who began operating in the 15th century out of Algiers, which was then part of the Ottoman empire.

Much of the western coastline of North Africa, from modern-day Morocco to Libya, was known as the "Barbary Coast" at the time  a name derived from the Berber people who lived there; and its pirates were a major threat for more than 200 years, preying on ships and conducting slave raids along the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts of Europe.

The people captured in the slave raids were held for ransom or sold into the North African slave trade that operated in some Muslim countries until the early 20th century.

But the piratical activities of the Barbary corsairs came to an end in the early 19th century, when the pirates were defeated in the Barbary Wars by the United States, Sweden and the Norman Kingdom of Sicily in southern Italy.

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An underwater photo of urns found in a shipwreck

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A large, wide black bottle pictured against a white background

Sunken ship

The corsair wreck lies on the seafloor in the Strait of Gibraltar, at a depth of about 2,700 feet (830 meters).

The ship was about 45 feet (14 m) long, and research indicates it was a tartane  a small ship with triangular lateen sails on two masts that could also be propelled by oars.

Tartanes were used by Barbary pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries, in part because they were often mistaken for fishing vessels, meaning other ships wouldn't suspect pirates were onboard, Kingsley said.

"I've seen tartanes described as 'low-level pirate ships,' which I like, Kingsley said.

The wreck hunters explored the sunken corsair using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), which revealed the vessel was armed with four large cannons, 10 swivel guns and many muskets for its crew of about 20 pirates.

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"The wreck neatly fits the profile of a Barbary corsair in location and character," Kingsley said. "The seas around the Straits of Gibraltar were the pirates' favorite hunting grounds, where a third of all corsair prizes were taken."

Stemm added that the wrecked ship was also equipped with a very rare "spyglass"  an early type of telescope that was revolutionary at the time and had probably been captured from a European ship.

Other artifacts of the wreck support the notion this was a pirate ship laden with stolen goods.

"Throw into the sunken mix a collection of glass liquor bottles made in Belgium or Germany, and tea bowls made in Ottoman Turkey, and the wreck looks highly suspicious," he said. "This was no normal North African coastal trader."
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
18-year-old shot to death at gas station had just passed Army entrance exam that morning, mom says

The grieving mother of a recent high school graduate said her daughter was preparing to enlist in the Army before she was shot to death at a gas station.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Aniyah Harris, 18, was a proud 2024 graduate of Bannker High School in Fulton County. Harris and her best friend were riding with another friend when they stopped at a Shell gas station on Old National Highway and Jonesboro Road on July 30.

The driver, who police have not identified, got out of the car and thats when investigators said he was targeted by two gunmen. A shootout erupted and Harris was killed.

TRENDING STORIES:

Channel 2s Michael Seiden spoke to Harris mother, Amidah Hood, who said she cant believe its been a week since her daughter was killed.

Harris and her friend had just taken the Armys entrance exam and passed on the morning she was killed. Hours later, her dreams were shattered and he was gone.

All this senseless killing and leaving so unexpectedly, she didnt even have a chance to do anything in life, Hood said.

Hood said her daughter never met a stranger and was a social butterfly whether they were at the store or at a restaurant.

Right now , I just I miss her and I want her to know that I love her and Id do anything for her, Hood said. You never wake up and think that this will be your story.

Hood said shes now relying on her daughters memory to give her the strength to get through the day.

She was beautiful and she was robbed, and its not fair, Hood said.
Porcelain items in a 19th century sailing ship wreckage that a team of Polish divers discovered on July 11, 2024, on the Baltic seabed about 37 kilometers (20 nautical miles) south of the Swedish isle of Oland. The ship was loaded "to the brim" with luxury goods including porcelain items and about 100 bottles of Champagne and mineral water and rests about 58 meters (190 feet) deep in conditions that the Baltictech divers say have preserved it "wonderfully." (Tomasz Stachura/Baltictech via AP)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  No one will be allowed to fish out any of the nearly 100 bottles of 19th-century Champagne and mineral water nestled in a shipwreck off southern Sweden without proper authorization, officials said Wednesday.

Though the wreck's location has been known since 2016 and is registered in Sweden's National Antiquities Offices cultural environment, it was only on July 11 that Polish scuba divers found the precious cargo.

The wreck, which sits at about 58 meters (190 feet) deep off the coast of the southern Sweden county of Blekinge, was found by the divers while they were checking spots of interest about 37 kilometers (20 nautical miles) south of the Swedish Baltic Sea island of Oeland.

Wine and water experts have quickly contacted the divers and been vying to carry out laboratory tests on the contents of the bottles, according to the divers' leader, Tomasz Stachura. However, Swedish authorities have put their foot down and labeled the sunken ship an ancient relic which the county says requires a clear and strong protection to remain intact.

You must not damage the ancient remains, which also includes taking items from the wreck, e.g. champagne bottles, without permission from the county, Magnus Johansson, a county official told The Associated Press. The champagne bottles are a fantastically well-preserved find that gives us a snapshot of shipping and life on board at the end of the 19th century, he added.

Had the wreck been from before 1850, it would automatically have been listed as an ancient relic, local authorities said.

But we have established that the cultural and historical values of the wreck were so high that it should be declared as an ancient relic, Daniel Tedenlind, a county official in neighboring Kalmar.

Stachura, the diver, earlier said it was believed that the cargo could have been on the way to the royal table in Stockholm or the Russian tsars residence in St. Petersburg when the ship sank sometime in the second half of the 19th century.
$1M Worth of Cocaine Washes Up on Florida Beach After Hurricane Debby Blows Through State

The Atlantic hurricane season is fully underway, and residents across the state of Florida braced for the arrival of Hurricane Debby and whatever destruction it brought with it. It turns out the storm also produced some surprising finds at the seashore.

Acting chief patrol agent of the U.S. Border Patrol's Miami sector Samuel Briggs II explained what happened in a statement.

"Hurricane Debby blew 25 packages of cocaine (70 pounds) onto a beach in the Florida Keys," he said. "[A] Good Samaritan discovered the drugs and contacted authorities. U.S. Border Patrol seized the drugs, which have a street value of over $1 million dollars."

Photos of the evidence show bricks packaged in brown paper and emblazoned with a red butterfly-like logo.

Hurricane Debby blew 25 packages of cocaine (70 lbs.) onto a beach in the Florida Keys. Good Samaritan discovered the drugs & contacted authorities. U.S. Border Patrol seized the drugs, which have a street value of over $1 million dollars.#Hurricane #Debby #Florida #floridakeys pic.twitter.com/nsjKu6qm8V  Samuel Briggs II (@USBPChiefMIP) August 5, 2024

It's not the first time an illicit surprise has washed up on Florida beaches. In June, divers in Key West found bricks of cocaine branded with fake Nike logos on the ocean floor. In May, another beachgoer in the Keys found 65 pounds of cocaine, per The Miami Herald. And in 2023, nearly 150 pounds of cocaine Last year, nearly 150 pounds washed up on Big Pine Key, and in August 2023, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor reeled in 70 pounds of cocaine on a family fishing trip.

In a world where Cocaine Bear exists, it's only a matter of time before we witness real-life cocaine fish.
KIEV, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Ukrainian authorities ordered a forced evacuation from 23 settlements in the northeastern Sumy region, the Sumy Regional Military Administration said on Wednesday in a statement on Telegram.

"I signed the order on the mandatory evacuation of 23 settlements in 5 communities of the Sumy district. It enters into force from the moment of signing," said Volodymyr Artyukh, Sumy regional governor.

According to him, about 6,000 people, including 425 children, will move to safer places under the evacuation efforts.

The evacuation will be carried out "in order not to endanger the population," said Artyukh, noting that the situation in the area is currently under the control of the Ukrainian army.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the air-raid warning lasted more than 24 hours in the Symu region.

The Sumy region borders Russia's Kursk and Belgorod regions in the east and Bryansk region in the north. 
(BCN)  Deputies in Sonoma County arrested two people from Alaska who were allegedly found in Petaluma with drugs for sale and weapons, the sheriffs office said Tuesday.

A Sonoma County Sheriffs Office deputy was driving to an alarm call in Petaluma late Sunday night when he saw a pickup truck with a towing trailer parked against traffic with its hazard lights flashing. The driver of the pickup was slumped over the wheel and wasnt moving.

Pipe bomb discovered in mailbox near Ukiah

The deputy parked and walked up to the pickup to wake up the driver. When deputies saw the driver start to reach for something near the center console, they removed both the driver and passenger from the vehicle, the sheriffs office said.

A deputy allegedly saw a bag of a white crystalline substance between the drivers feet. A search around the drivers seat yielded a loaded .45 caliber pistol, ammunition, a loaded magazine, a large fixed-blade knife, about 500 suspected fentanyl pills, multiple baggies of suspected fentanyl powder and a baggie of suspected methamphetamine, the sheriffs office alleges.

Deputies in Sonoma County on Aug 4, 2024 busted two people from Alaska who were allegedly found with narcotics and a loaded gun. (SCSO via BCN)

Bullets and a loaded pistol allegedly found Aug. 4, 2024 in Sonoma County. Two people from Alaska were arrested on suspicion of being in possession of narcotics and weapons. (SCSO via BCN)

In total, deputies said they found 244.5 grams of suspected fentanyl and 92.8 grams of suspected methamphetamine.

Alaska resident Kayne Enyeart, 61, was arrested and booked into jail on suspicion of being a felon in possession of a gun and ammo, carrying a loaded gun in a vehicle, possession of narcotics for sale, possession of illegal drugs and a loaded gun, among other felonies.

Passenger Deanna Welsh, 52, also from Alaska, was cited and released on suspicion of possession and transporting of narcotics for sale and possession and transporting of methamphetamine for sale.

Copyright  2024 Bay City News, Inc.

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Taylor Swift's three concerts in Vienna this week have been canceled after two suspects were arrested for allegedly plotting a terror attack, authorities said.

"We have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone's safety," a message from Barracuda Music said. "All tickets will be automatically refunded."

The cancellation comes hours after authorities announced a 19-year-old Austrian citizen was arrested Wednesday morning and a second suspect was arrested in the afternoon.

The suspects allegedly radicalized themselves online, Franz Ruf, director-general for public safety in the Ministry of the Interior, said at a press conference. The 19-year-old suspect allegedly pledged allegiance to the leader of the Islamic State at the beginning of July, Ruf said.

Vienna was a target of their planned attack and the 19-year-old suspect had a particular focus on Swift's Vienna concert, Ruf said.

PHOTO: Taylor Swift performs onstage during 'Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour,' July 27, 2024, in Munich, Germany. (Thomas Niedermueller/TAS24/Getty Images )

The pop star had concerts scheduled in Vienna this Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Information about the threat to the tour dates originated with U.S. intelligence and was passed to the Austrians and Europol, multiple law enforcement and intelligence sources told ABC News.

Though inspired by ISIS, the sources said investigators do not believe the alleged plot was directed by ISIS operatives.

U.S. intelligence found at least one of the suspects pledged to ISIS-K on the messaging app, Telegram, in early July, the sources said.

Investigators are not convinced that the alleged plot would have worked and they do not know if a functioning bomb was produced. However, Viennese investigators did find explosive precursor chemicals which showed a degree of motivation and planning, sources told ABC News.

Before the shows were canceled, Ruf said security at the concerts would be increased. The shows were expected to draw 65,000 concertgoers per day, with an additional 10,000 to 15,000 fans outside of the area, police said.

Swift kicked off the massively successful "Eras Tour" in Glendale, Arizona, on March 18, 2023.

MORE: 'Swifties for Kamala' ready to speak in 2024 presidential election

Investigators in Austria are looking at surveillance footage to determine whether one or more of the suspects had previously visited the concert site for reconnaissance or if they had visited other potential targets.

As ABC News has previously reported, law enforcement officials have been concerned about mass gathering attacks since the deadly Moscow concert hall assault earlier this year for which ISIS-K claimed credit.

In October 2023, the pop star released a concert film chronicling the record-breaking tour, "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour," that went on to break records of its own and earn a Golden Globe nomination.

At the 100th stop of the tour this summer in Liverpool, England, the 14-time Grammy winner told the audience the tour "has definitely been the most exhausting, all-encompassing, but most joyful, most rewarding, most wonderful thing that has ever happened in my life thus far."

The Eras Tour will end in Vancouver, Canada, on Dec. 8.

ABC News' Carson Blackwelder contributed to this report.

Taylor Swift shows in Vienna canceled after 2 arrested for planning ISIS-inspired terror plot originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Dr. Janice Johnston, a member of the Georgia State Election Board, speaks during a meeting at the State Capitol in Atlanta, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (Matthew Pearson/WABE via AP)

ATLANTA (AP)  Four years after the 2020 election, a newly GOP-aligned election board in Georgia is pushing to reinvestigate the state's largest county for its handling of the vote.

Georgia's State Election Board voted 3-2 Wednesday to ask state Attorney General Chris Carr to investigate the Fulton County government, seeking to reopen an inquiry closed in May.

The action shows the degree to which Republican outrage over the 2020 election continues to animate party activists and comes on the heels of a Saturday rally in Atlanta where former President Donald Trump attempted to relitigate unproven claims that he won Georgia, which President Joe Biden won that year by a narrow margin. He praised the State Election Board at the same rally.

Spokesperson Kara Murray said Carr, a Republican who has been opposed by Trump, hadn't yet received the request.

We take election integrity very seriously, and we will apply the constitution, the law and the facts as we have always done, Murray said.

However, Murray said the attorney general's office doesn't investigate or seek criminal charges in cases referred by the board.

The resolution says that if Carr doesn't act, the board will try to hire an outside lawyer to conduct an inquiry.

It's unclear what could happen if an inquiry occurs. In a hotly disputed 2021 law, the board was given the power to take over election administration in individual counties. That provision was always aimed at heavily Democratic Fulton County in the aftermath of an election that an independent monitor said was characterized by sloppy practices and poor management but with no evidence of intentional wrongdoing.

A trio of Republican partisans aligned with Trump has cemented control of the five-member regulatory board, which has no direct role in determining election results but writes rules to ensure elections run smoothly and hears complaints about violations.

Some activists who have long wanted action against Fulton County argue that officials should face criminal charges. Those activists have also long pushed for access to the paper ballots from the 2020 election, which could enable a citizen review similar to one that roiled Arizona in 2021.

As part of the May resolution of the earlier inquiry, the board found that Fulton County improperly double-counted some votes. But those who brought the complaint say other issues are unresolved, such as missing electronic ballot scans.

It seems to me that somebody is moving heaven and earth to not allow anyone to get to the paper ballots, said Dr. Janice Johnston, a retired obstetrician appointed to the board by the state Republican Party. I dont know why. Im just interested in the data and interested in the numbers.

Wednesday's decision is likely to be met with litigation. Fulton County's election board sent a letter to the state board flatly saying the May resolution is final and the board is legally prohibited from reopening the charges.

We will not engage in any further discussions, investigations or other action related to this case, Fulton County board Chair Sherri Allen said in a statement. To do so would be a waste of taxpayer dollars and time that is best spent preparing for the upcoming general election.

The state board's nonpartisan chair, John Fervier, tried to block the action, citing a letter from Carr's office that he said also warned the move would be illegal. The Associated Press wasnt immediately able to obtain a copy of the letter.

We are putting this board in legal jeopardy by approving that motion, Fervier said.

Johnston, who led a successful effort to overturn Fervier's ruling blocking consideration of the move, said a lawyer for the state GOP had advised her that the board could legally go ahead. Janelle King, whose appointment tipped the balance of power on the board, said she is not afraid of a potential lawsuit.

We've got to make sure we're not scared to make moves because of the fear of that, because in some cases it's just the right thing to do, said King, a conservative political commentator

It's at least the second recent time that state Republican Party officials or employees directly advised the board on a course of action. Party Chairman Josh McKoon recently sent two proposed rules and talking points to another GOP-aligned member of the board, former state Sen. Rick Jeffares.

Part of the deal made in May was that Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, the State Election Board and Fulton County would agree on a monitoring team. On Wednesday, though, the board refused to vote on the team proposed by Raffensperger and Fulton County. That's in part because it included the former chief lawyer for Raffensperger's office and the man who monitored Fulton's 2020 election.

Raffensperger's office declined to comment on the board's actions. He was removed as a voting member of the board in 2021 and from his nonvoting capacity by lawmakers this year, largely driven by GOP anger at his defense of Biden's 2020 victory in Georgia.

At the Saturday rally, Trump said the three GOP-aligned board members are all pit bulls fighting for honesty, transparency and victory while criticizing Fervier and the Democrat on the panel. He in particular singled out Johnston, who was in the second row and stood to acknowledge Trumps praise.

My courage was contagious? Trump said. Well, your courage is contagious, too.
When do 2024 college classes start in Mississippi?

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  As many of Mississippis K-12 students in Mississippi are already in school, undergrads will soon attend classes and return to campus for the fall semester.

Below are important dates for college students attending school at some of the most popular institutions in Mississippi this semester.

First day/last day of classes: August 19/ December 6

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 22

Breaks: September 2, November 25-29

Exams: December 9-13

Graduation: December 12

First day/last day of classes: August 19/November 22

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 21

Breaks: September 2, October 14-15, November 25-December 1

Exams: December 2-6

Graduation: December 14

First day/last day of classes: August 21/not listed on the academic calendar

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 25

Breaks: September 2, October 7-8, November 25-29

Exams: December 9-12

Graduation: December 13

First/ last day of class: August 12/November 22

Last day to drop full-term classes: November 8

Breaks: September 2, October 10-11, November 25-29

Exams: December 2-5

Graduation: December 11-12

First day/last day of class: August 19/Not listed on the academic calendar

Last day to drop full-term classes: November 8

Breaks: September 2, October 11 and 14, November 25-29

Exams: December 10-12

Graduation: Not listed on the academic calendar

First day/last day of classes: August 19/Not listed on the academic calendar

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 25

Breaks: September 2, November 23-December 1

Final Exams: December 2-5

Graduation: December 6

First day/last day of classes: August 19/December 4

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 25

Breaks: September 2, October 18, November 22 (starting at 5:00 p.m.) until December 1

Exams: December 6-7, 9-11

Graduation: December 13

First day/last day of classes: August 21/December 3

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 14

Breaks: September 2, October 10-11, November 27-29

Exams: December 5-6, 9-12

Graduation: December 13

First day/last day of classes: August 21/December 3

Last day to drop full-term classes: November 1

Breaks: October 10-11 , November 25-29

Exams: December 5-6, 9-11

Graduation: December 13

First day/last day of classes: August 19/Not listed on the academic calendar

Last day to drop full-term classes: November 1

Breaks: September 2, November 25-29

Exams: December 2-4

Graduation: December 14

First day/last day of classes: August 14/November 20

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 18

Break: September 2

Exams: November 22-23, 25-26

Graduation: No fall graduation

First day/last day of classes: August 26/December 6

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 14

Breaks: September 2, November 23-December 1

Exams: December 9-13

Graduation: Not listed on the academic calendar

First day/last day of classes: August 21/December 5

Last day to drop full-term classes: October 31

Breaks: August 31-September 2, October 10-13 (excluding Saturday courses), November 27-December 1

Exams: December 9-12

Graduation: December 13

First day/last day of classes: Fall trimester begins August 26, and ends October 30; Winter trimester begins November 11, pauses on December 20 for winter break, resumes January 13, ends February 12

Last day to drop full-term classes: Not listed on the academic calendar

Breaks: September 2 (night classes still meet), November 4-8, November 25-29, December 23-January 13

Exams: October 31 to November 1, 4; February 13-14, 17

Graduation: No fall graduation

Information concerning graduation, breaks, classes and examinations is subject to change at the institutions discretion at any time. The dates listed center around full-time, in-person courses for undergraduate students at the institutions main campus. The exam times listed do not include midterms.

Breaks that encompass the end of the fall 2024 semester do not account for intercession courses occurring at institutions or for winter break. Go to the respective institutions website for specifics about graduation times, application deadlines, academic registration, withdrawal deadlines and other information.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV.
Another incumbent bit the dust on Tuesday.

Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) became the fourth member of Congress  and the second member of the progressive Squad  to lose a primary election this year. Her race drew millions of dollars in spending, largely driven by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, which has targeted candidates it doesnt deem as sufficiently pro-Israel.

Bush, like the other two incumbents who have fallen to challengers this cycle, had made key missteps that left her in political peril before the onslaught of outside spending arrived.

Elsewhere on Tuesday, other vulnerable incumbents managed to hang on. And the latest slate of battleground races is now set.

Here are some takeaways from Tuesdays primaries:

Money matters, but Bushs vulnerabilities opened the door

Bush was already a vulnerable incumbent even before AIPACs super PAC started spending against her. Personal scandal involving a federal investigation into her campaign spending on security services and her alienation of some labor allies with her vote against the infrastructure package had weakened her position.

But the deluge of outside spending and St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bells strong candidacy made the race even more competitive. Although the Israel-Hamas war had barely factored into their campaign messaging, Bushs strident criticism of the Israeli government prompted the United Democracy Project to spend over $8 million against her, helping to make this primary the second-costliest in House history.



Rep. Jamaal Bowmans loss in June, where AIPAC and other pro-Israel groups also heavily spent against him, only further energized those seeking to unseat Bush. Bell  like Bowmans opponent, George Latimer  accused the incumbent of neglecting her constituent duties and alienating key allies. Bush had attempted to cast the outside spending as disinformation and accused Bell of opportunism for dropping down from a planned Senate bid to challenge her.

And another Democratic incumbent had an unexpectedly close race, but under entirely different circumstances. Democratic Rep. Shri Thanedar, an Indian American lawmaker representing a predominantly Black district based in Detroit, won a closer-than-expected contest with Detroit City Council member Mary Waters, who is Black. Thats a shock for Thanedar; a more serious primary challenger ultimately didnt qualify for the ballot, and he dramatically outspent Waters.



Trumps participation-trophy endorsement tactic

The power of former President Donald Trumps endorsement has faltered in recent races, failing to take candidates over the finish line. And now, hes hedging his bets.

Trump has issued endorsements to multiple candidates in a handful of primaries in the last couple of weeks. That includes in the contentious GOP primary for Missouri governor on Tuesday, where he threw his backing behind all three of the leading candidates: Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel. Kehoe won.



He pulled a similar gambit in the primary for Missouri state attorney general, where he backed both incumbent Andrew Bailey and challenger Will Scharf. Bailey won.

In Washingtons 4th District, Trump sought to enact revenge on Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse, one of the last two Republicans who voted to impeach Trump left in the House. Trump endorsed former NASCAR driver Jerrod Sessler earlier this cycle, but tacked on an eleventh-hour endorsement for Tiffany Smiley, the partys unsuccessful 2022 Senate candidate. Sessler and Newhouse were on track as of early Wednesday morning to advance to the general election, but the race remains uncalled.



Its a move that Trump pulled for the first time this cycle last week, when he issued a second endorsement in an Arizona House primary after he already endorsed one candidate last year. The candidate who had the endorsement longer ended up winning. Trump spreading his endorsement around raises some questions about its strength in a primary. If he is backing all the leading candidates  or hedging his bets late in the process  is he still influencing primary voters?

Trump also notched some other endorsement wins on Tuesday in races where he only backed one contender, including former state Sen. Bob Onder in Missouris 3rd District, and former state Attorney General Derek Schmidt in Kansas 2nd District. Both are open, safe red seats.

No big surprises in battleground matchups

Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin and former GOP Rep. Mike Rogers will face off for an open Senate seat in Michigan after primaries that were largely preordained. Slotkins candidacy scared off most major competition, and Rogers saw three of his Republican opponents drop out before primary day.

The lineups for competitive House races were also set. National Republicans werent thrilled about Paul Junges comeback bid in central Michigan  especially when Democratic Rep. Dan Kildee decided to retire. But they couldnt stop him. Some preferred Mary Draves, a former Dow Chemical exec, but Junges name ID and stronger fundraising pushed him over the top. Hell face Democrats preferred candidate, Kristen McDonald Rivet.

It was a similar story in Washingtons 3rd District, where some Republicans hoped the party could provide voters with a palatable alternative to 2022 candidate Joe Kent, whose ties to far-right groups doomed his campaign even in a district Trump won two years earlier. But it will be a rematch between Kent and freshman Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez.

Democrats also had a retread candidate in a Lower Peninsula Michigan district, where Carl Marlinga won the primary. Hell again face GOP Rep. John James. He waged a surprisingly strong run against him in 2022 in a race that drew comparatively little outside spending, but some Democrats were eager for a fresh face in 2024.

In Slotkins open seat, Republican Tom Barrett and Democrat Curtis Hertel Jr. were uncontested in their respective primaries. In Michigans 3rd District, attorney Paul Hudson will take on first-term Democratic Rep. Hillary Scholten, where Joe Biden won by around 9 points in 2020. And Democratic Rep. Kim Schrier will be up against Republican Carmen Goers in Washingtons 8th District, another battleground.

In Kansas 3rd District, oncologist Prasanth Reddy won a closer-than-expected primary for the right to take on Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids. Reddy is the preferred candidate of national Republicans, but the suburban Kansas City district increasingly favors Democrats.
UPDATE, July, 7: Three people, including one teenager, have been charged in this incident, Memphis Police say.

Jaquavius Jeans, 19, is charged with Aggravated Robbery and Theft of Property to wit Firearm under $2,500. Silad Louden, 18, is charged with Aggravated Robbery. An unidentified 15-year-old has been charged with Aggravated Robbery.

**

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Police are reaching out to the public in hopes of finding three men they say robbed a Whitehaven Family Dollar.

On Tuesday, officers responded to the Family Dollar at 5355 Elvis Presley Boulevard regarding a business robbery.

Man shot in stomach during carjacking in Whitehaven: MPD

They were told that three men entered the business armed with AR-15 rifles.

The suspects threatened the staff and then proceeded to steal items from the store. They exited in an unknown direction.

If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
ITHACA, N.Y. (WETM)  Three minors have been given tickets to appear in court after an incident of what police described as an attempted gang assault occurred Tuesday night in Ithaca.

According to the Ithaca Police Department, officers were called to the Ithaca Commons around 7:52 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6, for the report of a dispute. Upon arrival, officers determined that three people under the age of 18 had assaulted a person. The victim of the assault sustained non-life-threatening injuries as a result.

Man indicted, allegedly violated order of protection in Elmira

Police say that multiple witnesses in the area tried to stop the assault while it was in action. One of the people who attempted to interject was also struck by one of the assailants who committed the assault.

The three minors were detained on the scene and then later released with juvenile appearance tickets for attempted gang assault in the second degree, a class D felony. Due to the age of those involved, their names are not being released by police.

Elmira man indicted on charges related to JCPenney burglary

Anyone with any information on the incident is encouraged to contact IPD by one of the following means:

Police Dispatch: 607-272-3245

Police Administration: 607-272-9973

Police Tip line: 607-330-0000

Anonymous Email Tip Address: www.cityofithaca.org/ipdtips

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
3-year-old recovering in Las Vegas hospital after she was kicked in head by wild horse

LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A family photo shoot turned into a terrifying ordeal for a Las Vegas family after a near-death experience for their 3-year-old child.

On Saturday night, a Las Vegas family went to the Upper Lee Meadows just south of Lee Canyon for a planned photo shoot, but all of that changed, rather quickly.

I didnt know if my daughter was dead or not, Austin Wilkey, father of 3-year-old Olivia, said. I heard her crying and that was amazing to know she was alive.

The family was laying out blankets and getting ready to take pictures when a wild Mustang approached the area they were in.

Olivias mother Haily Wilkey told her son to move away from the Mustang when all of a sudden one of them galloped and the tail hit their 8-year-old daughter, and the hoof kicked Olivia in the head. Hailey then rushed over to her daughters side.

My wife had to hold her head shut and she got so tired that another gentleman stepped in and held her head shut, Austin explained.

Photo of 3-year-old Olivia Wilkey provided by the family.

Photo of 3-year-old Olivia Wilkey provided by the family.

Photo of three-year-old Olivia Wilkey provided by the family.

Austin himself had to run off to find cell service and get help. A flight for life helicopter took Olivia to a nearby hospital in Las Vegas while the rest of the family met them at the hospital.

We drove here immediately just as the helicopter was landing, Olivias grandma Shanna Sims said. Please let her be okay I couldnt imagine losing her.

Doctors had to monitor Olivia for 12 hours before a neurosurgeon performed a nearly three-hour surgery to repair her skull. Now on top of fighting for her life, Olivias family is fighting medical bills. They have set up a GoFundMe page to help.

Ill make payments the rest of my life, I dont care. Austin said. Just get her to safety.

Olivia is currently recovering in the ICU and is expected to be released at the end of the week. She still remembers the kick and is eating and drinking now, but the long-term prognosis is not known yet.

Its really a miracle, a blessing, Austin said.

Sims hopes something can be done to keep wild horses away from people.

Shes just starting her life so for me I think people need to be very wary, she said.

The family also wanted to thank the strangers who helped them on the mountain that day, including two people Jose and Jesse.

Mt. Charleston Fire and Rescue sent the following statement Monday night:

On 8/03/2024 at 6:12 pm Mt Charleston Fire and Rescue responded to a report of a child kicked in the head by a horse in Upper Lee Meadows in Lee Canyon. Upon arrival the crew on scene found the child to be in critical condition. The Child was life flighted to UMC. The U.S. Forest Service will be investigating the cause of the attack.



Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A rainy, and in some places thunderous, August primary Tuesday produced few surprises but set the stage for some marquee races on Nov. 5, when the nation's eyes will already be on Michigan as a key battleground state in the presidential election.

In fact, primary ballots were still being counted Wednesday as contenders for the White House headed to Michigan for events that aimed to energize their general election campaigns.

Election official Megan Acosta, center, helps election chairperson Cindy Gregorich, left, and election official Tony Adams, right, while working during the Michigan Primary elections at Lindbergh Elementary School in Dearborn on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

Republican vice presidential nominee and U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio is scheduled to visit Macomb County Wednesday on morning to speak at the Shelby Township Police Department.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, joined by her newly named running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, is holding an event Wednesday night at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and another Michigan campaign event Thursday.

Here are three takeaways from Tuesday's primary:

Big-time U.S. Senate and House races finalized

Michigan is expected to be important for November, not just in determining who will next occupy the White House after President Joe Biden, but in deciding which party controls the U.S. Senate, where Democrats now enjoy a slim majority, and the U.S. House, where Republicans are narrowly in charge.

Tuesday's results, while largely expected, point to well-funded and highly competitive Michigan contests impacting both chambers.

To fill the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Holly, will face former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton, in a race the Cook Political Report has rated a "toss-up."

That contest will be the main congressional event in Michigan Aug. 5, but there will also be some enticing battles for the U.S. House on the undercard.

Those include a race for the open seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee-D-Flint Township in the 8th Congressional District, where former Lansing anchorman and prosecutor Paul Junge, a Grand Blanc Republican, will face state Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet of Bay City, in another matchup pundits say is too close to call.

Michigan incumbents could also face strong challenges after Tuesday's results.

In the 10th Congressional District, U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, will face Democrat and former Macomb County judge and prosecutor Carl Marlinga. It will be a rematch of what was one of the tightest U.S. House races in the nation in 2022.

In the 3rd Congressional District, U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, will face Republican challenger Paul Hudson, an East Grand Rapids attorney. That contest is also expected to be competitive. Currently, the Cook Political Report ranks it as likely Democratic, giving the edge to Scholten.

Though not impacted by Tuesday's primary, since both November candidates went unchallenged, one other Michigan congressional race is rated a toss-up in November and is expected to draw significant resources from both parties: The 7th Congressional District, where former state Sen. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte, will meet former state Sen. Curtis Hertel, D-East Lansing.

Not all state House incumbents survived

There was a notable defeat Tuesday in the 107th District, where state Rep. Neil Friske, R-Charlevoix, was defeated by Republican challenger Parker Fairbairn.

Friske, who was seeking a second term, made headlines in June when he was arrested by Lansing police in an early-morning incident involving a firearm and an alleged sexual assault.

Friske, considered one of the most conservative state House members, was released from jail without charges as Ingham County prosecutors say they continue to investigate what happened. He has maintained his innocence but it appears the incident may have been a factor in his ouster from the Legislature.

With 99% of the vote tallied, Fairbarn, a small business owner, led with 63% of the vote, compared to 37% for Friske.

Election went smoothly; turnout not record-setting

Scattered power outages amid stormy skies were the main glitches affecting Tuesday's voting.

Precincts that were temporarily without electricity resulted in relocated polling places 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 Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson's office.

But Benson said officials quickly arranged for alternate sites and posted signs and nobody lost their chance to vote as a result.

Final turnout numbers have still not been calculated but the inclement weather may have contributed to voting numbers that were below levels seen in some recent primaries.

Benson estimated that about 2 million Michiganders voted in the primary, with more people voting absentee than in person.

Since 2018, between 2.1 million and 2.5 million voters typically participate in Michigan's primary elections.

Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. Follow him on X, @paulegan4.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 3 takeaways from Michigan's wet and stormy Tuesday primary vote
BEIRUT, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A Hezbollah member and a civilian were killed and seven civilians injured on Wednesday afternoon in an Israeli airstrike targeting a motorcycle in the southwestern Lebanese town of Jwaya.

Lebanese military sources told Xinhua anonymously that an Israeli drone targeted a motorcycle with two air-to-surface missiles in Jwaya, killing the driver and a Lebanese civilian while wounding the other passersby.

According to the sources, the killed Hezbollah member was named Hassan Fares Jichi, and the civilian Mohammad Hassan Shomer.

The Israeli military has not commented on the airstrike.

Meanwhile, the Hezbollah Military Media announced that the Islamic Resistance attacked several Israeli sites and gatherings, including Jal al-Alam, al-Raheb, al-Malikiyah, al-Za'oura, and Ruwaisat al-Alam.

Tensions are high in Lebanon following Israel's attack on Dahieh in Beirut's southern suburbs, which resulted in the death of a senior Hezbollah military commander, Fouad Shokor, and seven civilians. Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah has 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, when Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets at Israel in solidarity with Hamas's attack on Israel the previous day. In response, Israel fired heavy artillery into southeastern Lebanon. 
Mitchell died after being pinned to the ground by workers outside the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee on June 30

Jeremy Hogan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Protesters march following following DVontaye Mitchell's death.

Four hotel workers are facing felony murder charges following DVontaye Mitchell's death on June 30

Mitchell's death has sparked multiple protests around the U.S., as surveillance footage showed him being pinned to the ground and beaten

If the four workers are convicted, they would each would face up to 15 years and nine months in jail, per the Associated Press

Four Milwaukee hotel workers are facing felony murder charges following DVontaye Mitchell's death on June 30.

Mitchell, 43, died following an incident outside the Hyatt Regency in which he was pinned to the ground and beaten by staff members, per footage shared by CNN. His death, which has been compared to the 2020 killing of George Floyd, has sparked multiple protests around the U.S.

Per the Associated Press, those charged are hotel security guards Todd Erickson and Brandon Turner, front desk worker Devin Johnson-Carson, and bellhop Herbert Williamson.

The Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office and the Milwaukee Police Department didn't immediately respond after being contacted by PEOPLE.

A spokesperson for Aimbridge Hospitality told PEOPLE in a statement, "Our hearts are with Mr. Mitchells family and loved ones as this case moves forward. We have cooperated fully with law enforcement in their investigation into this tragic incident and will continue to cooperate with the district attorney."

PEOPLE has also reached out to Erickson's attorney Michael Steinle for comment. It is not immediately clear whether the other employees have attorneys.

Per the AP, if the four workers are convicted, they would each would face up to 15 years and nine months in jail.

Jeremy Hogan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Protesters march following DVontaye Mitchell's death.

"Four Hyatt employees involved in the death of DVontaye Mitchell have been charged  a significant step towards justice for the family of D'Vontaye Mitchell!" attorney Ben Crump, who is among the team of lawyers representing Mitchell's family, wrote while sharing a link to an article on X (formerly known as Twitter).

"The fact that D'Vontaye was held face down on the pavement for eight to nine minutes  just like George Floyd  is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for accountability and justice. D'Vontaye's life mattered, and his story will not be forgotten!" Crump added in another X post.

Crump didn't immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional comment.

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.

Before his death, Mitchell had been seen "frantically running into the hotel's lobby" as well as the gift shop and a women's bathroom, the outlet stated surveillance footage showed, according to a complaint shared by the AP. He was then dragged outside and beaten. Footage appeared to show workers with their knees on Mitchell's back and neck.

According to the complaint, Johnson-Carson stated Mitchell showed clear signs of extreme distress, including gags, distressed breathing and repeated pleas for help, the AP reported.

All of these factors, the gasping, the actions and words of DM, the distress that he was in, show that all four defendants were aware that holding DM face first on the ground was practically certain to cause impairment of his physical condition, the complaint stated, per the AP.

The Milwaukee Police Department previously shared a press release on July 12, which read, "On July 5, 2024, felony murder charges with the underlying charge of battery were referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorneys Office against four individuals."

"These charges are under review and pending with the District Attorney. This is an ongoing investigation. MPD communicates regularly with the District Attorney and will provide them with additional information if received," the release added at the time.

"The Milwaukee Police Department expresses our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Mitchell," police concluded.

Per the AP, findings by the Milwaukee County Medical Examiners office stated that Mitchells immediate cause of death was restraint asphyxia and toxic effects of cocaine and methamphetamine, and it was ruled a homicide, per an autopsy released on Aug. 2.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A crash between a vehicle and an RTC bus injured several people near downtown Las Vegas on Tuesday, according to police.

It happened shortly before 2 p.m. at East Washington Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard. A total of five people had to be taken to a hospital with minor injuries, according to Las Vegas Metropolitan police.

A crash between a vehicle and an RTC bus injured several people near downtown Las Vegas on Tuesday. (RTC Fastcam)

Police also told 8 News Now that impairment is not suspected in the crash.

The investigation is ongoing.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
5 of the most banned books in the U.S.

Banning a book for all Americans is an extraordinarily difficult thing to do; in fact, in the countrys nearly 250 years of life, it has never been done at a federal level, according to Find Law.

However, federal laws and court decisions have restricted or removed certain books in specific contexts, including Ulysses by James Joyce.

Though redaction and restriction has occurred repeatedly in the U.S., the First Amendment has prevented complete federal book bans.

Typically when book bans are discussed, people refer to them on a smaller scale.

In her book, Book Banning in 21st Century America, Emily Knox, professor at the University of Illinois, explains how censorship typically comes in one of four forms: removal (on a local or school level), relocation, restriction and redaction.

The First Amendment Museum explained what this might look like. They wrote, A school might choose not to carry a book in its library, or a bookseller might refuse to sell a certain book, or a library might try to expunge a book from its collection.

However, the federal government has never passed an official government-wide book ban.

What are common reasons for banning a book in the U.S.?

In 1982, a group of students challenged their local school district in New York, which was removing books, including Slaughterhouse-Five and The Best Short Stories by Negro Writers, edited by Langston Hughes.

The district maintained that the books were removed on behalf of being anti-American, anti-Christian, anti-Semitic and just plain filthy.

The case made it to the U.S. Supreme Court which ruled, Local school boards may not remove books from school libraries simply because they dislike the ideas contained in those books and seek by their removal to prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion.

However, in a study conducted more recently in 2020 by the American Library Association, a large majority of books currently challenged or banned on local levels are cited for sexual content.

Similar data from 2000-2009 published by the ALA shows that roughly half of the titles were challenged for containing sexually explicit material, offensive language and non-age appropriate material.

Notable examples of banned books in America

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

A month after its initial publication in February, 1885, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was pulled from shelves in Concord, Massachusetts, with the reason being it was suitable only for the slums, per PBS.

Middle State Tennessee University claims a later ban from the New York Public Library childrens reading room only increased its popularity.

While the reasons for banning this book have changed consistently over the years, Marthas Vineyard Times reported the book has now sold roughly 20 million copies worldwide.

Ulysses by James Joyce

From this novels initial publication in 1920 until the U.S. District Court case in 1933, postal workers fought on the front lines attempting to prevent Ulysses from entering the U.S.

The Comstock Laws allowed the U.S. Postal Service to intercept any obscene, lewd, or lascivious book, according to the Library of Congress.

So, when copies came in from Europe, The Post Office Department burned any copies arriving on these shores, The New York Times reported. Customs officials routinely seized copies arriving from friends and relatives outside of the U.S. as well.

According to Politics and Prose, England officially banned the book in 1929, possibly because the mass-burning proved insufficient to suppress its readership.

As this book was generating a massive amount of controversy, it escalated into the influential court case United States v. One Book Called Ulysses.

The case disputed whether the book was pornographic, its words were dirty and its content obscene.

Ultimately, the court concluded, Whilst in many places the effect of Ulysses on the reader undoubtedly is somewhat emetic, nowhere does it tend to be an aphrodisiac. Ulysses may, therefore, be admitted into the United States.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

This Pulitzer Prize winner also has a long history of bans, with recent challenges occurring in 2018, 2017, 2011 and 2009, according to Banned Books Week.

In 1966, a school board first banned this book for being immoral and improper for our children, per Reason. The magazine cites recent bans from the book stemming from the books usage of racial slurs.

In 2018, The Independent reported that several schools in Minnesota had banned both To Kill a Mockingbird and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Michael Cary, Duluth Minnesota director of curriculum and instruction, explained the districts decision. We felt that we could still teach the same standards and expectations through other novels that didnt require students to feel humiliated or marginalized by the use of racial slurs, he told The Washington Post.

1984 by George Orwell

1984 has created controversy in the U.S. for a myriad of reasons, largely on behalf of its sexual content and political themes. UC Press reported one instance of the book being challenged in Jackson County, Florida, for being pro-communism.

While this book has faced many challenges from Americans attempting to get it banned in the U.S., Orwells novel has had much worse luck reaching the public in other countries, including Vietnam.

According to the BBC in 2017, 1984 was unable to receive certification to publish in Vietnam.

The chairman of a board of directors of a book company in Hanoi, who requested to remain anonymous, told the BBC, If any publisher is brave enough to issue a license, they will definitely have to prepare to pay a fine, not to mention that their leaders or editorial board will lose their jobs.

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

A decade after its initial publication in 1951, from 1961 to 1982, The Catcher in the Rye was the most censored book in American schools and libraries, according to Medium. It dropped to the 10th most frequently challenged and banned book in the U.S. through 1999.

The ALA records instances of banning and restricting this book, one citing excess vulgar language, sexual scenes, things concerning moral issues, excessive violence and anything dealing with the occult as the reason for its ban.

Similarly in Summerville, South Carolina, in 2001, a school board member removed The Catcher in the Rye, calling it a filthy, filthy book, per the ALA.
$52K in cash thrown out of car during police chase in Connecticut

PLAINFIELD, Conn. (WTNH)  Connecticut state police are searching for whomever 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 to the service plaza in Plainfield after 11 a.m. ET on Monday, after hearing 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 with Pennsylvania plates.

Police have provided pictures of the suspects, seen below.

State police are searching for suspects related to a chase on Aug. 5, 2024. (Source: Connecticut State Police)

While driving away from troopers, a suspect allegedly 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.

5 signs its a scam call before you even pick up, according to an expert

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.

One witness who spoke with Nexstars WTNH believes she spotted one of the suspects near the stores ATM.

The guy was standing there for a good 20, 25 minutes, the woman said. He had a little sack in front of him. And so, I just thought that it was weird he was there that long.

She said the ATM screen had a bunch of different writing, like a hacker.

Connecticut State Police Sgt. Luke Davis said the crime is part of a national trend called jackpotting.

Its way more advanced than the typical smash-and-grab of an ATM being yanked out from a business, Davis said. Now, this software can be used to bypass the security systems of an ATM and basically give whats referred to as a jackpot payout.'

Davis encourages businesses with ATMs to update the software regularly and install safeguards to protect against malware.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
$52K in cash thrown out of car during police chase in Connecticut

PLAINFIELD, Conn. (WTNH)  Connecticut state police are searching for whomever 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 to the service plaza in Plainfield after 11 a.m. ET on Monday, after hearing 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 with Pennsylvania plates.

Police have provided pictures of the suspects, seen below.

State police are searching for suspects related to a chase on Aug. 5, 2024. (Source: Connecticut State Police)

While driving away from troopers, a suspect allegedly 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.

2 accused of taking $1.1M in armored truck robbery tracked down using Apple AirTag

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.

One witness who spoke with Nexstars WTNH believes she spotted one of the suspects near the stores ATM.

The guy was standing there for a good 20, 25 minutes, the woman said. He had a little sack in front of him. And so, I just thought that it was weird he was there that long.

She said the ATM screen had a bunch of different writing, like a hacker.

Connecticut State Police Sgt. Luke Davis said the crime is part of a national trend called jackpotting.

Its way more advanced than the typical smash-and-grab of an ATM being yanked out from a business, Davis said. Now, this software can be used to bypass the security systems of an ATM and basically give whats referred to as a jackpot payout.'

Davis encourages businesses with ATMs to update the software regularly and install safeguards to protect against malware.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
DOLGEVILLE, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY)  Exactly 56 years ago on Thursday, August 8, the murder of 25-year-old Donna Lee Hart rocked the Village of Dolgeville. In the present day, the New York State Police are hopeful that the person who killed her can still be brought to justice.

New York State Police continue to investigate the incident that occurred on State Route 29 between the Village of Dolgeville and the town of Salisbury Center. Police say that Hart was shot four times by an intruder, and they are asking for the publics help to get more information.

Police say that on August 8, 1968, Hart  then 25 years old  was alone at her home on State Route 29. At approximately 12:45 am, Hart called her father, Richard Karla, and told him that a man was trying to break into the residence. Hart said that the man was wearing a stocking on his head.

Karla said he immediately went to the residence, arriving approximately five minutes later in an attempt to locate the man. He found the front door locked and then claimed he heard several gunshots from inside.

Karla said he was able to get inside the house from a back door that had been forced open. After a search of the house, Karla said he found Hart dead in an upstairs bedroom.

An investigation by New York State Troopers found that the intruder had fired a round from what was later revealed to be a .22 caliber handgun through a wall, then forced the nearby door open. Hart then retreated to an upstairs bedroom and hid in a closet. Troopers say the killer then found Hart, shot her four times, and then ran down the stairs and out the front door.

Karla claims he heard a vehicle leave the area and head toward the village of Dolgeville. Investigators with the New York State Troopers say that the killers car had been parked on Hopson Road, approximately 350 yards away from the scene.

New York State Troopers say the handgun has never been recovered. Over the years, troopers say they have followed numerous leads, as well as interviewed hundreds of people, but no arrests have ever been made.

On the 56th anniversary of Harts murder, the New York State Police are renewing their plea to the public for information regarding the murder. If anyone has any information regarding the murder, you are asked to contact Investigator Chad Salls of the New York State Police Major Crimes Unit at 315-366-6066.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com.
6-Year-Old Pa. Girl Died Wearing a Soiled Diaper After Allegedly Being Locked in Sweltering Room for Days

The girl's uncle, another suspect in the case, is still at large

Berks County District Attorney Manuel Rodriguez Sr., Jazmin Rodriguez

A 6-year-old girl in Pennsylvania died after being locked in a room for multiple days, authorities allege.

The girl's grandmother, Jazmine Rodriguez, 44, and her grandfather, Manuel Rodriguez Sr., 46, have been charged in connection with the death of the child, which was ruled a homicide, the Berks County District Attorney's Office said in a news release, according to ABC, Fox and NBC.

The outlets, citing the DA's office, reports that authorities were called to a home in Reading, Pa., on May 28 for a report of a young girl in cardiac arrest.

The child was taken away in an ambulance, but police noticed that she appeared to have been dead for some time, the DA's office reportedly said.

The medical examiner determined that the victim died of dehydration and prolonged exposure to heat due to neglect. According to the DA's office, the child had been left in a soiled diaper for multiple days prior to her death, which caused severe rashes, the outlets reported.

The DA's office reportedly said the room in which the girl was kept in may have reached 100 degrees with high humidity due to lack of air circulation.

The medical examiner said that the child's condition was consistent with her being locked in a room for more than three days, Fox reports.

A third suspect, the girl's uncle, Manuel A. Rodriguez, Jr., 20, is still at large.

All three suspects were charged with criminal homicide, unlawful restraint/serious bodily injury, false imprisonment, endangering welfare of children and related charges, the outlets report.

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It's not immediately clear if any of the suspects have entered pleas or retained attorneys.

According to NBC, the Reading School District issued a statement on Monday, August 5, about the childs death, with School Superintendent Jennifer Murray saying, "The loss of a young life is always a profound tragedy and the circumstances surrounding this childs death are particularly horrific."

The district stated that the child was a former student, but did not attend school last year.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.

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7 more Denver schools will have air conditioning this year, but 29 still without

DENVER (KDVR)  Denver Public Schools is working to finish installing air conditioning at seven more schools before the start of the school year on Aug. 19 using funding that was provided by a bond measure in 2020.

Carson Elementary School is one of the schools getting AC installed this summer. Gary Uba, the project manager, told FOX31 the work is very complicated because the school was built in 1951.

List: 2024-2025 start dates for Colorados biggest school districts

The ductwork is all new, these units are all new, he said.

Scott Pribble, a DPS spokesperson, said the AC will improve the learning environment. In years past, classroom temperatures have reached the upper-80s or 90 degrees which forced administrators to send students home early.

So, by retrofitting these buildings and putting air conditioning in, its really going to impact the learning thats happening because theyll get the full days at the beginning of the school year, Pribble said.

But even when these projects are complete, there will still be 29 other DPS schools without AC.

Colorado Education Initiative publishes AI guide for K-12 districts

On Aug. 15, the school board will consider a new $975 million bond proposal that could address that. The recommendation includes $240 million for air conditioning.

If approved, the bond question will go on the ballot in November.

If that bond does pass all 29 of those schools will receive air conditioning and we will have every school in Denver Public Schools with air conditioning at that point, Pribble said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Seven U.S. personnel, including "five U.S. service members and two U.S. contractors," were injured in a "dangerous escalation" at Al Asad Air Base in western Iraq on Monday after two rockets struck the base. File Photo by 1st Lt. Leland White/U.S. Army National Guard

Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Seven U.S. personnel were injured in a "dangerous escalation," targeting U.S. and coalition forces, after two rockets struck Al Asad Air Base in western Iraq on Monday, a U.S. Defense Department official revealed Tuesday.

"Five U.S. service members and two U.S. contractors were injured in the attack. Five injured personnel are receiving care at Al Asad Air Base and two have been evacuated for further care," the official said. "All seven injured personnel are in stable condition."

While post-strike investigations are underway, the Defense Department blamed Iran-aligned militia groups for the attack as tensions soar in the Middle East following last week's assassination of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.

Shortly after Monday's attack, Iraqi military intercepted a vehicle carrying rockets, saying in a statement that two rockets were launched from the vehicle as eight more rockets were being readied. No perpetrators have been taken into custody as investigators look into "security breaches in the area."

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Monday after the attack.

"Today, I spoke with Israeli Minister 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," Austin revealed in a post on X.

"We agreed the attack from Iran-aligned militias on U.S. forces stationed at Al-Asad Air Base 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 added.

Monday's attack on Al Asad Air Base in Iraq comes as Iran vows revenge on Israel for last week's assassinations of 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.

The attack also comes days after Austin ordered additional military assets to the Middle East, including a carrier strike group, a fighter squadron and additional warships, to protect American forces and increase the defense of Israel.

Last year, Iranian-backed attacks injured dozens of U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria. An Iranian proxy attack killed three American troops and injured 34 others at a base in Jordan in January. The attacks stopped after massive retaliatory U.S. strikes against Iranian-backed militias a month later.
DENVER (KDVR)  Westbound Interstate 70 was closed at about 11:16 a.m. on Wednesday for a crash, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation. The agency reported the roadway reopened to traffic at about 3:43 p.m.

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The road was closed between Exit 304 and Exit 299, which lead to the town of Bennett and Manila Road, respectively. The Colorado State Patrol told FOX31 that the incident was first reported as a crash, then a vehicle fire. The agency also said the westbound lanes are completely blocked.

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A CDOT camera showed a large cloud of white smoke, and at least one vehicle off the right side of the road on the shoulder.

A crash on I-70 resulted in a fire on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024 as seen from a CDOT camera.

A crash on I-70 resulted in a fire on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024 as seen from a CDOT camera.

A crash on I-70 resulted in a fire on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024 as seen from a CDOT camera.

Traffic was fully stopped in both directions, with the westbound lanes completely blocked. The crash appeared to be in the westbound lanes of I-70.

At the time of publishing, it is unclear if there were any injuries from the crash or what caused it.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
SOFIA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Bulgarian National Assembly, the country's parliament, on Wednesday prohibited the promotion of "non-traditional sexual orientation" in schools and kindergartens.

The ban, proposed by the 38-seat-strong Revival party as part of changes to the country's Preschool and School Education Act, was backed by 135 legislators in the 240-member parliament, with 57 voted against it and eight abstained.

The ban will prohibit propaganda, promotion or incitement in any way, directly or indirectly, of ideas and views related to non-traditional sexual orientation and/or gender identity determination differing from biological sex.

The legislators specified that "non-traditional sexual orientation" was any perception of emotional, romantic, sexual or sensual attraction to persons of the same sex or even a combination of sexes, different from the generally accepted and established norms of Bulgarian legal tradition.

However, this ban is not universally welcomed by Bulgarian society. Earlier on Wednesday, the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee, a non-governmental nonprofit civil society organization for defending fundamental human rights, sent a letter to the parliament saying that the bill was unclear and violated basic human rights, including those protected by the Constitution. 
NORTHFIELD, Conn. (WTNH)  Connecticut State Police officials say an 82-year-old man is dead following a crash on Route 254 Tuesday morning.

The crash happened around 10:48 a.m. Police said a 2015 Honda Civic LX was traveling southbound on Route 254 and a 2024 Volkswagen Taos Se was traveling northbound when a 2008 Toyota RAV4 Limited tried to cross the intersection at Main Street.

5 from Conn. among 9 killed in Florida crash

As a result, the Honda was struck into the northbound lane and hit head-on by the RAV4.

The driver of the Honda was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries and later succumbed to his injuries.

Police identified the driver as 82-year-old David Foster Kaufman of Watertown.

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The driver of the Volkswagen suffered minor injuries and was transported to a hospital. The third driver had no apparent injury, according to police.

The crash is still under investigation. Troopers ask anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dashcam video of it to contact TPR Matthew Brew #1204 at Troop L-Litchfield, 860-626-7900 or by email at matthew.brew@ct.gov.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
Detroit voters on Tuesday were leaning toward approving Proposal L, the Detroit Public Librarys millage that generates the vast majority of its operating budget.

As of 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, unofficial results on the Wayne County election website from 399 of 400 Detroit precincts, showed the library proposal winning approval from city voters, with just more than 85% voting yes.

The Detroit Public Library as seen from the Cass Avenue entrance in Detroit, Michigan on Saturday, July 5, 2014.

The millage, officials have said, is crucial to keeping the librarys doors open and means more money in library coffers.

Proposal L renews the current property tax of 3.9943 mills, or $3.9943 per $1,000 of taxable property value. This means that for a home with a taxable value of $40,000, homeowners would pay about $160 per year in property taxes.

The 10-year renewal, according to the library, combines two millages voters approved in 2014, which ends June 2025. The 3.9943 mills is expected to generate an estimated $42 million in revenue in its first year.

"It's 85% of our operating budget. If it passes, then we are going to continue for the next 10 years to provide services  valuable services  to citizens of Detroit," Atiim Funchess, assistant director of marketing and communications for the Detroit Public Library, told the Free Press last month.

The Detroit Public Library will also be exempt from certain tax captures  a change that could add about $3.2 million next fiscal year to the library budget. The extra revenue would allow the library to address deferred maintenance, improve buildings and bolster programming.

More: Find all 2024 Michigan primary election results here

So-called tax captures are a function of whats known as tax increment financing (TIF), a tool that allows entities, such as downtown development authorities and brownfield redevelopment authorities, to take a slice of the increase in property taxes to fund projects.

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is among the entities that has been capturing incremental property tax revenue from the Detroit Public Library. In the 2023 fiscal year, the DDA captured $3.3 million, up from about $2.8 million the year before, according to library figures.

Critics of tax captures say the financing tool harms public institutions, like libraries and schools, when the money could instead go to residents and neighborhoods.

But the DDA has said it has revitalized downtown. The loss of the funds would impact the DDAs ability to invest in Detroits development, a spokesperson for the Detroit Economic Growth Corp., which staffs the DDA, said last month.

The renewal millage of 3.9943 mills would be exempt from DDA tax increment capture per state law, according to the city of Detroit's Office of the Chief Financial Officer and a law department memo. However, a permanent millage of about 0.64 mills will continue to be subject to DDA capture. Both of those library millages would also be available for brownfield redevelopment tax capture.

Detroit's library system  the second largest in Michigan  includes the main location in Midtown and 21 neighborhood branches.

The Detroit Public Library has a collection of more than 4.4 million items, including books and DVDs, and access to more than 800 computers.

Currently, 18 of the Detroit Public Library's 21 branches are open. The three closed branches are Conely in southwest Detroit, Skillman in downtown and Monteith on the far east side of the city.

Monteith, which is an older building that had fallen into disrepair, needs more than $6 million in remediation work. Skillman is in the construction zone of the Hudson site. Conely has some water damage, Funchess said. The aim is to reopen the Conely branch by the fall.

Free Press Summer Apprentice Sophie Hanawalt contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Voters approving Proposal L Detroit Public Library millage
ABINGDON, Va. (WJHL)  The Abingdon Veterans Advisory Board dedicated a Purple Heart parking sign on Wednesday in honor of National Purple Heart Day.

The parking sign was dedicated to Purple Heart recipient Don Parker.

Parker, a World War II Army Veteran, was in combat as an infantryman during the invasion at Normandy, landing on Utah beach.

Kingsport Aquatic Center closes out summer season with annual Drool Party for dogs

The new parking sign will be located at the south end of Veterans Memorial Park in Abingdon (425 Lt. Billy Webb Ave).

Kyle Craig with the advisory board said they aim to take every opportunity they can to honor veterans.

What we want to do is take every opportunity we can to represent veterans, tell the community about veterans, let everybody remember veterans, and hopefully, itll pull more veterans out of the woodwork and we can accomplish more.

Don Parker (left) (WJHL Photo)

WJHL Photo

WJHL Photo

The Purple Heart is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces who is wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States.

The Abingdon Veterans Advisory Board is a town-sponsored board that recognizes and honors local veterans, past and present.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
'I will be able to use this every single day': Kits help police officers connect with kids

When police respond to crimes, accidents, and domestic situations, there are often children present.

Recently, officers with the Wilmington Police Department received a tool to help them alleviate some of the anxiety and trauma children experience during these calls. That tool  a kit that includes activities and toys  is provided by First Responder Kits4Kids, and its being used at police departments across North Carolina, Georgia, Nevada and Tennessee.

First Responder Kits4Kids was founded by Kevin Gatlin and James Fisher-Davis  two dads from the Charlotte area.

Gatlin explained the idea came from his other company, Playtime Edventures, which creates interactive bedding for children who are in the hospital. The bedding includes both reusable and disposable bedsheets illustrated with activities, puzzles, games, and designs for coloring.

Officers with the Wilmington Police Department pack bags with activities and toys at the Wilmington Convention Center on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. The bags were First Responder Kits4Kids, a company based in Charlotte.

When Fisher-Davis, who is retired from law enforcement, learned about the kits, he saw another way to use them.

He said, You know, Kevin, I think your interactive disposables would be good for first responders, Gatlin recalled.

That led to additional discussions, and Gatlin said they realized it had potential and decided to give it a try.

We just decided to some good in the community, he recalled.

The kits include several items: the disposable sheet, several toys, crayons, and games. The items are included in a plastic pouch with a note of encouragement from one of the departments police officers, saying things like, Stay strong."

Gatlin said the handwritten notes are his favorite part of the kit.

On the outside of each pouch is a shield engraved with the agencys initials and the sponsor. The tags are provided by Jennifer Tilmons business, Band of Honor. Tilmon explained Band of Honor specializes in creating engraved products  often bracelets  to memorialize officers who have died in the line of duty. Tilmon said she decided to partner with Kits4Kids after meeting Gatlin and Fisher-Davis at a conference.

More inspiring stories: Brunswick County teacher says her students encouraged her as she battled cancer

I just fell in love with what they do because in my free time, when Im not working my business, I work at an elementary school as a substitute teacher, Tilmon said.

Tilmon said she knows younger children will enjoy the activities, and she understands from personal experience the impact they could make.

This is just my way of giving back because I too was one of these kids when I was little, she said.

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Recently, Gatlin, Fisher-Davis and Tilmon had the opportunity introduced the kits to officers with the Wilmington Police Department at a packing event, held Wednesday, July 17 at the Wilmington Convention Center. Officers packed 100 kits, sponsored by Samet Corporation, and planned to take them back to the department after the event. In addition to helping during traumatic situations, officers were excited about being able to use the kits to build relationships with the children they encounter in the community.

This is what I do, so I will be able to use this every single day, said Officer Eboni King who serves with the WPDs Community Engagement Unit.

Renee Spencer is the community engagement editor at the StarNews. Send her your inspiration story tips at rspencer@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Wilmington, NC, police officers get Kits4Kids
Abortions have increased since Roe was overturned, mostly from telehealth

There were more abortions in the U.S. during the first three months of this year than the same period in 2023, according to a new report, continuing a trend of increasing abortions ever since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and allowed dozens of states to enact bans and restrictions.

The national monthly number of in-person abortions from January to March 2024 was about the same as in that period in 2023, meaning the increase was mostly driven by telehealth abortions, according to the report from the #WeCount project of the Society of Family Planning.

The report comes ahead of the November elections, where Democrats across the country are campaigning on abortion rights, and some voters in red and blue states alike will have the opportunity to enshrine state-level abortion protections.

Telehealth abortions represent 20 percent of all abortions nationally, and shield laws have played a major role. Six states enacted laws that provide legal protections to clinicians who offer telehealth abortion care to people in states that have abortion or telehealth bans.

According to the reports, doctors in states with shield laws prescribed abortion pills to nearly 10,000 patients in states with bans or restrictions on abortion by telehealth.

In the nine months from July 2023 to March 2024, more than 65,000 people in states with total or six-week bans and states with telehealth restrictions have accessed medication abortion provided under shield laws, the report found.

But the overall increase doesnt tell the whole story, said Alison Norris, a professor at Ohio State Universitys College of Public Health and a co-chair of #WeCount.

People can be a little placated and say, well, it looks like people are getting their abortions and not recognize that there are thousands and thousands of people who arent getting abortions in their own community, Norris said.

Telehealth abortion is super important and an increasingly important part of the ecosystem, but 80 percent of abortion care is provided in person, and many people either need in-person care or prefer in-person care, and so were still living in very unjust circumstance where thousands of people who need an abortion cannot get one in the community where they live, she added.

The survey found that the number of abortions fell to nearly zero in the 14 states that ban abortion in all stages of pregnancy.

Four others bar it after about six weeks of pregnancy, before most women know they are pregnant. Those states saw abortions drop by about half, the survey found.

The states with the greatest cumulative declines in abortion volume over the 21 months since Roe was overturned are Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Louisiana and Alabama.

The quarterly #WeCount report found a monthly average of nearly 99,000 abortions in the first three months of this year. January was the first time since the survey began that it has counted more than 100,000 abortions across the country in a single month.

The states with the largest average number of abortions per month included California, New York, Illinois, Florida and New Jersey.

The increased numbers of abortions in states that permit abortion likely represent a combination of people traveling from states where they cannot access care and increased abortions among residents.

Florida enacted a six-week abortion ban on May 1, so the impact of that new law isnt measured in the report. But its likely to have far-reaching impacts, given the relatively high number of abortions in that state and the total abortion bans in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee.

Abortions notably increased in states such as Illinois, Kansas and New Mexico, which protect abortion and border states that have bans.

Norris said its important not to lose sight of the heavy burden abortion bans have on people living in those states.

While some can travel or obtain medication, many others need in-person care and cant access it and have been forced to carry a pregnancy to term. Because of total abortion bans or six-week bans, at least 208,000 fewer abortions were provided in-person.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The County Election Board says voters looking to receive absentee ballots mailed to them for the August 27, 2024 elections should apply now as the deadline quickly approaches.

The County Election Board is accepting applications for absentee ballots until 5 p.m. on Monday, August 12. Voters are being encouraged to apply early.

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Absentee ballot application forms are available at the County Election Board

office located at 4201 N. Lincoln Boulevard in Oklahoma City or online clicking here.

The County Election Board says any registered voter may vote by absentee ballot in any election in which he or she is eligible to vote. No excuse is necessary, however without giving a reason, election leaders confirm, the law still provides several excuses and it is to the advantage of some voters to use one of them.

By stating one of the following reasons on applications, voters can activate some special conditions that make it easier for them to use absentee ballots.

The reasons are:

Voters who are physically incapacitated and voters who care for physically

incapacitated persons who cannot be left unattended may vote absentee.

They may apply only by mail, by fax, by email, online or via an agent who

is at least 16 years of age and who is not employed by or related within

the third degree of consanguinity or affinity to any person whose name

appears on the ballot.



Voters who are confined to nursing homes in the county may vote absentee.

An Absentee Voting Board actually goes to the nursing home a few days

before the election, sets up a small polling place and allows these persons to

vote under circumstances similar to those at a regular precinct polling place.



Military personnel and residents of the county living overseas and

the dependents of each group are eligible to vote absentee without being

registered. These voters may apply only by mail, by e-mail, or by fax.

Military personnel should contact the Voting Service Officers in their units

for application forms and additional information. Residents of Oklahoma

living overseas can obtain the same materials from any United States

military installation and from United States Embassies and Consulates.

For more information, 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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- An AC-130U gunship from the 4th Special Operations Squadron, jettisons flares over an area near Hurlburt Field, Fla., Aug. 20. The flares are a countermeasure for heat seeking missiles that may be launched at the aircraft during real world missions. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Senior Airman Julianne Showalter)

On August 4, 2024, an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship landed on Highway 63 in Bono, Arkansas. On this public highway, the gunship refueled and rearmed before taking back off. This historic first, conducted by Air Force Special Operations Command, was part of Emerald Warrior Field Training Exercise II.

An AC-47 (left) and AC-130J fly in formation, representing the past and present of the Air Forces gunship (U.S. Air Force)

The fixed-wing gunship concept dates back to the AC-47 Spooky gunship used to provide close air support to ground forces in Vietnam. Since then, the mission has been performed by the AC-119G Shadow and AC-119K Stinger variants before being taken on by the AC-130. The A, E, and H variants of the AC-130 received the Spectre designation. The Spectre gunship was made famous during the Global War on Terror through its depiction in movies and video games. In 2015, the last Spectre gunship was retired with the AC-130U Spooky following five years later. Today, the AC-130J Ghostrider is the most modern platform in the long line of fixed-wing gunships.

A U.S. Air Force MC-130J Commando II, assigned to the 492nd Special Operations Wing, lands on Highway 63 during Emerald Warrior 24 FTX II in Bono, Arkansas, August 4, 2024 (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ty Pilgrim) Senior Airman Ty Pilgrim

The AC-130J is based on Air Forces Special Operations Commands MC-130J. Unlike previous C-130s, the MC-130J is the first built specifically for special operations. Additionally, previous AC-130s were famously armed with a 25mm Gatling gun, a 40mm Bofors cannon, and a 105mm howitzer. While these guns were employed with great precision by highly-skilled aircrews, the Precision Strike Package of the AC-130J provides a wider array of more precise armament.

A U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing, inspects ammunition during Emerald Warrior 24 FTX II highway landing operation in Bono, Arkansas, August 4, 2024 (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ty Pilgrim) Senior Airman Ty Pilgrim

The Ghostrider retains the 105mm howitzer but ditches the 40mm cannon and 25mm gun for a Bushmaster 30mm cannon. In addition to these trainable weapons, the AC-130J can carry Standoff Precision Guided Munitions including the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb, GBU-69 Small Glide Munition, AGM-114 Hellfire missile, and the AGM-176 Griffin missile. These weapons, combined with an advanced suite of electro-optical/infrared sensors and fire control equipment, make the Ghostrider the deadliest gunship yet.

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing, conduct Forward Arming and Refueling Point operations during Emerald Warrior 24 FTX II highway landing operation in Bono, Arkansas, August 4, 2024. The ability to refuel aircraft in contested spaces is a critical element of Agile Combat Employment. FARPs enable Air Force Special Operations Command aircraft to quickly refuel, rearm, and return to the fight, reducing downtime and increasing operational tempo. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Ty Pilgrim) Senior Airman Ty Pilgrim

Emerald Warrior FTX II was designed to showcase AFSOCs Agile Combat Employment capabilities. On the morning of August 4, Special Tactics Airmen of the 1st Special Operations Wing established and secured a landing zone on Highway 63. This allowed a a C-146A Wolfhound and MC-130J Commando II of the 492nd Special Operations Wing to land. On the five-lane highway, the crew of the MC-130J set up a Forward Arming and Refueling Point.

A U.S. Air Force AC-130J Ghostrider Gunship, assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing, prepares to land on Highway 63 during Emerald Warrior 24 FTX II in Bono, Arkansas, August 4, 2024 (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Saisha Cornett) Master Sgt. Ryan Conroy

With the FARP established, the AC-130J Ghostrider made its approach and landed on the highway to refuel and rearm. After taking on fuel and ammunition, the Ghostrider rolled down Highway 63 and returned to the sky. Emerald Warrior FTX II demonstrates to our adversaries that we can meet them anytime, any place, anywhere, without the need for traditional runways to project air power, said Col. Patrick Dierig, 1 SOW commander, in an AFSOC article. By landing an AC-130J on a highway and conducting FARP, were proving our ability to operate in austere and unique environments.

An AC-130J Ghostrider on Highway 63 (U.S. Air Force)

In response to growing and evolving threats in the Indo-Pacific region, the Air Force has placed great emphasis on its ability to conduct agile combat operations. Developing these skills will allow the service to operate across the oceans from small islands without established support infrastructure.
Access to the Impact Zone: Lahainas journey of resilience and recovery

LAHAINA, Hawaii (KHON2)  In the wake of the devastating Lahaina wildfire nearly one year ago, KHON2 was granted special access to critical areas within the heart of the impact zone.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

Everywhere in Lahaina, one encounters the stark contrast between the remnants of destruction and the determination to forge ahead.

Photos from the Lahaina impact zone on Aug. 6, 2024.

Photos from the Lahaina impact zone on Aug. 6, 2024.

Photos from the Lahaina impact zone on Aug. 6, 2024.

The once majestic 150-year-old Lahaina banyan tree, now scarred by fire, stands as a symbol of resilience.

Lahainas Banyan Tree continues to fight the odds

A tree this big with devastation all around it, for it to survive, it really is a phoenix rising from the ashes. Its resiliency and it still showing signs of life represents the resiliency of the community as a whole, and the community showing signs of life, said Tim Griffith, county arborist.

Residents like Shaina Forsyth are rebuilding their lives from the ground up. Despite the challenges, Shaina said shes determined to return to Lahaina.

Im currently living in Wailele Ridge and its wildly expensive. But I have insurance to help with the rent. So rebuilding was very important for me because Ill soon have to pay mortgage and rent, so I just wanted to get back here as soon as I could, Forsyth said.

Lahainas focus remains fixed on a way forward.

Stories of perilous escapes: Mauis survivors

Efforts by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA are crucial in clearing debris from over fifty commercial properties along Lahainas iconic Front Street.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said its focused on the need to respect and preserve the areas significant Hawaiian cultural sites.

We partnered closely with many partners of the cultural community which helped guide us as we came across items of cultural significance that may be buried beneath the ground, said Col. Eric Swenson, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Maui fire survivors move into state-funded units at former hotel

Supporting the Corps and FEMA are local workers, the backbone of this recovery effort.

Our crews are sourced from here on Maui and the state of Hawaii. Thats one of the successes that allowed us to go so fast in this debris removal mission. The majority, between 70 to 80 percent of our labor force comes from this island. They are invested in this recovery to see Lahaina town grow back into greatness in a more resilient fashion, said Swenson.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
The "Active Shooter Safety Exercise" at Siegel High Monday prepared first responders for potential tragedies like The Covenant School 2023 killings.

People continue to mourn the deaths of three children and three adults from The Covenant School shootings in Nashville.

During a large-scale active shooter safety training exercise at Siegel High School on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, a law enforcement officer approaches the school with a weapon.

The Rutherford County training involved over 500 people two days before Rutherford County Schools started the new 2024-25 year for students Wednesday on a two-hour orientation day. The first full day will be Thursday.

As part of the training Monday at Siegel High in Murfreesboro, Rutherford County Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh read out loud a script to tell reporters that his school resource officers (SROs) led the exercise that involved the simulation of "several injuries and two suspects that are now deceased."

'If kids aren't safe, they don't learn': School resource officer staffing remains top priority

The sheriff read scripted words in response to the simulation as if the tragedy had occurred, during the media gathering.

Mike Fitzhugh, Rutherford County Sheriff, speaks to the media about what was happening in the training drill during a large-scale active shooter safety exercise at Siegel High School on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024.

Wisdom for new school year: Retiring Rutherford school board Chairwoman Bratton shares 8 goals in farewell advice

Officers blocked two roads during Monday's training at Siegel High

The sheriff's SROs, Fitzhugh said, teamed with other sheriff's deputies and police officers from Murfreesboro, Middle Tennessee State University, Smyrna, La Vergne, Nashville and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Local paramedics, firefighters and emergency management officials also participated in the training.

Law enforcement blocked Siegel Road and Thompson Lane in front of Siegel High for part of the training and directed the stacked, slow-moving traffic away from responding patrol cars, Emergency Medical Service ambulances and city fire trucks.

"While this is an exercise, this training shows our countywide commitment to protect our precious children and school staffs," said Fitzhugh, who has served as sheriff since January 2017.

Rutherford County Schools has two safety weeks to focus on being prepared for emergencies in the fall and spring, and has drills throughout the year, district spokesman James Evans said.

Monday's event was one of the largest, Evans said.

Rutherford County Schools leadership: Board extends Schools Director James 'Jimmy' Sullivan's contract through April 4, 2028

SROs present for 31 years

Evans also spoke to reporters from behind a portable lectern as if speaking about a real shooting as part of the training. Other local public information officers participated, including sheriff's spokeswoman Lisa Marchesoni.

The gathering took place under a picnic pavilion on the grounds of Northside Baptist Church, which is across Siegel Road from the high school that serves about 1,800 students on Murfreesboro's north side. Evans after the training event said that a press conference following a real school shooting would have occurred farther from the campus.

Planned days off from school: Rutherford County Schools 2024-25 calendar sets full Thanksgiving week break

James Evans, the Rutherford County Schools Chief Communications Officer speaks to the media about a large-scale active shooter safety training exercise at Siegel High School on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, before the event started.

Evans mentioned how SROs in Rutherford County have been protecting students, teachers and other employees since 1993.

The county has at least one SRO assigned to each of the district's 51 schools, and the larger campuses have at least two, said Marchesoni, the sheriff's spokeswoman.

School board election: Vaught, Vaughn, Tidwell and Maxwell win to join all GOP Rutherford County school board

Evans: School safety has improved

Mike Fitzhugh, Rutherford County Sheriff, left, Lisa Marchesoni, the Rutherford County Sheriff Departments Public Information Officer, center and Melanie Brown with the Rutherford County Sheriffs office, right work together to come up with what to release to the media during a press conference about the events being acted out during a large-scale active shooting safety training exercise at Siegel High School on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024.

Evans suggested that part of responding to violence will include communicating with parents throughout the day, including any plan to reunify them with their children at reunification sites under the direction of law enforcement.

A school following a shooting would be closed the next day during the law enforcement investigation, Evans said.

The reenactors for the training included drama students, Evans said.

"We're going to learn a lot from this," Evans said. "We're already talking about areas where we can improve, areas we do great at. It's just going to be really beneficial. The ultimate goal is to help students stay safe and to keep our learning environment secure."

James Evans, the Rutherford County Schools Chief Communications Officer shows his folder for a large-scale active shooter safety training exercise that was held at Siegel High School on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024.

The school shootings throughout the country in recent years have led to greater efforts, including buzzard systems, window film, controlled access and security cameras throughout campus buildings, Evans said.

"Our schools are so much better secured than they were 10, 15 years ago," Evans said. "Everyone has really got an eye toward safety because of the tragedies that we've seen locally with what happened in Nashville and then also in other states."

'We want to inspire them': 3 future Rutherford schools named after historic people, places

Reach reporter Scott Broden with news tips or questions by emailing him at sbroden@dnj.com. To support his work with The Daily News Journal, sign up for a digital subscription.

Kay dates for students and parents in 2024-25 calendar

Aug. 7 (Wednesday): school year starts with abbreviated registration day

Aug. 8 (Thursday): first full-day of school

Sept. 2 (Monday): Labor Day break from school

Sept. 17 (Tuesday): Students off during teacher administrative day

Oct. 7 (Monday) through Oct. 11 (Friday): Fall Break

Oct. 22 (Tuesday): Parent teacher conferences 3-6 p.m.

Nov. 5 (Tuesday): Students off for Election Day and a teacher administrative day

Nov. 25 (Monday) through Nov. 29 (Friday): Thanksgiving break

Dec. 20 (Friday): Two-hour day for students on final day of semester

Dec. 23 (Monday) through Jan. 7 (Tuesday), 2025: Winter Break for students

Jan. 8 (Wednesday): Students return from Winter Break

Jan. 20 (Monday): Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday from school

Jan. 28 (Tuesday): Students off during teacher administrative day

Feb. 17 (Monday): Presidents' Day holiday from school

March 13 (Thursday): Students off during teacher administrative day

March 18 (Tuesday): Parent teacher conferences 3-6 p.m.

March 31 (Monday) through April 4 (Friday): Spring Break

April 18 (Friday): Good Friday break from school

May 26 (Monday): Memorial Day holiday from school

May 29 (Thursday): Students off during teacher workday

May 30 (Friday): Last abbreviated two-hour day of school year

Other days that teachers work

Aug. 1 (Thursday): Administrative Day (Discretionary Day 1)

Aug. 2 (Friday): Districtwide in-service day

Aug. 5 (Monday): Teacher workday

Jan. 6 (Monday): In-service Day 3

Jan. 7 (Tuesday): In-service Day 4

Source: Rutherford County Schools

This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: 'Active Shooter Safety Exercise' trains SROs at Siegel High School
KAMPALA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Ugandan authorities said at least seven primary and secondary schools have been closed in the western district of Ntoroko due to floods caused by heavy rainfall.

Edward Bashungura, the resident district commissioner for Ntoroko, told Xinhua Wednesday over the phone that the heavy rains had caused a nearby river and lake to overflow their banks, resulting in flooding.

"About 20 villages have been affected (by) flowing flooding of River Semliki and Lake Albert. This has left many schools submerged," Bashungura said. "We were left with no choice but to close the schools for the safety of the children. More schools are being assessed today and are due for closure."

The officer said in these villages alone, 20,000 people had been affected by floods.

"What we need now is (the) restoration of washed away bridges, tents for schools, shelter for affected villagers, food and water purifiers," said Bashungura, adding some of the affected villagers were living in shelters and camps for internally displaced people.

Last week, the government weatherman announced that the country would experience heavy rains, with lightning strikes in early August. 
Kentuckys largest addiction recovery group is being investigated by the FBI for alleged health care fraud, federal officials say.

Since 2008, Addiction Recovery Care (ARC) has been praised by Republicans and Democrats in Frankfort including Gov. Andy Beshear  for its mission, success and performance in reversing the ever-plaguing addiction crisis in Kentucky.

In his 2024 state of the commonwealth speech, Beshear said Tim Robinson, ARCs founder, is an essential partner in the states battle to fight addiction.

With more than 40 treatment centers across the state, ARC is the highest contributor to Kentuckys distinction of having the most residential treatment beds per capita in the country.

Contacted Tuesday, FBI officials said they could not elaborate on its inquiry.

As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide additional details. Anyone who believes they have relevant information about Addiction Recovery Care should review and complete the questionnaire at https://forms.fbi.gov/arctips, said Katie Anderson.

As the FBI launches its inquiry, the Herald-Leader has found more than a dozen lawsuits filed in federal and state courts with allegations that run counter to ARCs highly celebrated crisis to career model.

No criminal charges have been brought against ARC at this time.

In early August, the FBI put out a questionnaire for former employees and patients as part of its early investigation into the system. The feds said theyre looking for anyone whos been victimized by ARC.





The form asks if the person filling it out was a patient or employee of ARC between 2019 and the present. It also asks if they believe any services provided by ARC were not medically necessary, not adequately rendered or not billed appropriately.

Across Kentucky, and as far away as Florida, former employees and outside businesses have already accused ARC of fraud, negligence, wage theft, tax evasion, and breach of contract, according to court documents analyzed by the Herald-Leader.

Several of these cases have been quietly resolved in court, and some include settlement agreements legally gagging the people involved.

Just as secretive are the inner workings of ARC. One feature requires employees to sign a very restrictive non-disclosure agreement that prohibits them from working at other treatment centers within 60 miles of another  and from talking about their experience.

ARC went as far as to enforce one such agreement in a counter suit against two former employees who accused the company of wage theft.

ARC, with its headquarters in Louisa, is cooperating fully with the FBIs investigation and continues to serve some of Kentuckys most vulnerable populations, said Kyle Collier, the groups communications director.

We have recently learned that there is a federal investigation into ARC, he said in an emailed statement.

As we all know, healthcare is one of the most highly regulated fields in the country, and addiction treatment is among the most highly scrutinized healthcare services. ARC is a trailblazer in the field of addiction services. We are confident in our program and in the services we offer. We, and our legal counsel, are cooperating fully in the investigation.

Lawsuits tie ARC to negligence, companies guilty of medicaid fraud

A Lexington man filed a civil lawsuit in Fayette County against ARC and other drug-testing companies in 2016, claiming they fraudulently billed his health insurance for over $300,000 in services he never received.

Former ARC patient Steve Baker accused several companies of fraud, negligence and other offenses, alleging his therapy sessions were shorter than promised and not conducted by licensed professionals, according to court documents.

Despite stopping attendance in January 2016, Baker continued to be billed until August that year, he alleged. Court documents said he took his concerns to ARC representatives, but they went ignored.

Addiction Recovery Care operates a career services office in downtown Louisa, Ky., on Thursday, July 11, 2024.

In tandem with the direct allegations against ARC are the other defendants listed in the suit that work alongside ARC, most of whom have been found guilty in fraudulent billing schemes.

Ronald Coburn, CEO of LabTox, one of the defendants listed in the suit, pleaded guilty to healthcare fraud in 2023, admitting to fraudulent billing practices. Other companies involved in Bakers suit, like Ameritox and Compliance Advantage, have also faced legal action for similar misconduct.

LabTox allegedly billed Baker $146,161 for their services, according to court documents. The company performed urine drug testing services and billed them to Medicare and Kentucky Medicaid.

Coburn allegedly received $1,864,429 between June 2019 and March 2021 in fraudulent medicaid payments for services that were not medically necessary.

Coburn also admitted to receiving income of more than $1.5 million per year from LabTox between 2017 and 2021, and to concealing this income and his ownership of LabTox by placing the business in the name of his partner.

He was sentenced to 10 months in prison in December 2023.

Two other drug testing companies  Ameritox and Compliance (CAL) Laboratories  were listed as defendants and found in separate cases to have settled for fraudulently billing medicaid and medicare.

Ameritox was once labeled as the countrys largest drug-monitoring company that closed in 2018  the same year they settled with Baker. Long before their lawsuit with Baker, the company was the center of a major civil settlement in the amount of $16.3 million, to address that it paid kickbacks to providers in order to induce them to refer to the Medicare business.

The third drug toxicology lab listed as a defendant is Compliance Advantage, located in Nicholasville.

In August 2019, the company agreed to pay more than $2.5 million for violating the False Claims Act for knowingly failing to return to federal health insurance programs over payments it received for specimen validity testing  which is not coverage by Medicare or state Medicaid.

The charges against CAL Labs were a part of a larger investigation, according to the FBI and Office of the Attorney General.

Claims were dismissed with prejudice against all defendants, some of whom agreed to settle with Baker, according to court documents. Todd Burris, Bakers attorney, did not respond to multiple requests for comment made by the Herald-Leader.

Collier said ARC did not settle with Baker, and the case against ARC was dismissed with prejudice after Baker failed to provide evidence of his claims.

Tax evasion of $500,000

The state department of revenue also took aim at Addiction Recovery Care in March 2018, when Commissioner Daniel Bork filed a civil action against the business in Franklin Circuit Court for withholding taxes in the amount of $50,000.

According to court documents, the business owed taxes, penalties and interest in the amount of $566,088.15.

An injunction was filed against the business or alter ego of the business until the payments were met.

An injunction is a judicial order that restrains a person from beginning or continuing an action threatening or invading the legal right of another, or that compels a person to carry out a certain act, e.g., to make restitution to an injured party.

The department of revenues collections procedure first includes a set of phone calls and letters regarding the owed taxes. Other actions, in addition to an injunction include:

Sending a certified Final Notice Before Seizure Letter

Filing a tax lien against your property in the county where the property resides. A tax lien is the public notice of debt that attaches to your property and your rights to property. Once filed, it is public record and could harm your credit rating.

Levying your wages, bank account or other contractual payments. Certain income, such as Social Security or disability payment, is protected from levying.

Offsetting of your state or federal income tax refund may occur.

Offsetting of your state or federal vendor payment may occur.

Requesting an injunction from the courts preventing your business from operating.

An agreed settlement was reached two weeks later in the amount of $468,644.20, according to court documents.

The order of satisfaction was issued in May 2020. Frank Dempsey, the departments attorney, referred the Herald-Leader to the departments communications liaison, who then referred the Herald-Leader to the departments website.

Federal lawsuits led to enforcement of NDA, settlement

A federal lawsuit from February 2023 filed by two former employees is among the more recent cases challenging ARCs business practices.

Filed in Kentucky Eastern District Court, Leanna Murphy and Samantha Carroll alleged that while employed at ARC, the company violated the Fair Labor and Standards Act and Kentucky Wage and Hour Act and participated in unjust enrichment.

Murphy and Carroll previously worked as ARC community liaisons, which required them to work with courts, hospitals, homeless shelters, treatment centers, jail and mental health facilities to identify people in need of recovery services.

They wrote in a court filing they were required to work well over 40 hours a week, but were never compensated for overtime, because the positions were misclassified as salaried, even though the jobs required no special skills, training or expertise.

The women also were required to work at community events and outreach programs on weekends and were not paid for the time related to those job duties, they said.

They were forced to answer calls and communications from ARCs clients all hours of the day, including weekends, for which they were not compensated, they alleged.

ARC denied the allegations.

The organization then counter-sued the women, claiming that by filing the lawsuit with details of their employment and leaving ARC to get jobs with other addiction treatment providers, they were in direct violation of a non-compete and non-disclosure agreements both women signed at the start of their employment.

The broad non-compete agreement prohibits former employees from directly or indirectly engaging in, owning, managing, operating, joining, controlling, lending money or other assistance to, or participating in or being connected with any individual, corporation, partnership firm, other company, business organization, activity or entity that is engaged in a competitive business in the restricted area for a period of two years following the last date of their employment.

More specifically, the non-compete agreement defines a restricted area as the geographic area extending 60 area miles in all directions from any ARC treatment center in existence, or any future ARC facility.

According to an ARC locations map, the organization owns 49 locations from Western to Eastern Kentucky, Ohio and Virginia. Those facilities include residential treatment centers, transitional learning centers, outpatient centers, a psychiatric hospital and opportunity centers.

Christopher Miller, an attorney for Carroll and Murphy, said neither he, nor his clients could speak to the Herald-Leader as part of an agreed settlement. A joint dismissal was signed and effective in December 2023  just months after the initial filing.

Matt Brown, ARCs chief administration officer and ARC president said of their 1,250 current employees, approximately 35% are graduates of the ARC program. An internal survey Brown provided to the Herald-Leader said of 280 ARC graduates, 70% are working in addition treatment.

Arron Rhodes, an ARC graduate and now human resources director said the former clients of ARCs program have a lower turnover rate than employees who did not graduate ARCs programming.

He attributed this to the dedication and understanding they have for ARCs mission.
In 2019, the Texas adoption agency's license was temporarily suspended by federal authorities

Tarrant County Sheriff's Office Jody Hall in mugshot.

The founder of a Texas adoption agency has been charged with two felony counts of sale or purchase of a child, according to her online inmate booking records.

Jody Hall, 68, was booked into Hays County Jail on Thursday, July 23, and released on a $50,000 surety bond the same day.

Hall, who according to her LinkedIn is the founder, attorney and executive director of Adoptions International Inc., was allegedly communicating with pregnant inmates at Tarrant County Jail through their tablet communication system in an attempt to purchase their unborn children, according to arrest affidavits obtained by PEOPLE.

Hall allegedly paid one woman $846 for her unborn child, per the affidavit, telling her at one point that she would halt payments if the woman's boyfriend did not relinquish his rights to the child. "I don't need birth moms that lie to me just to get financial support," she added, per the affidavit.

She allegedly paid another woman $250, allegedly writing on the communication system that she would pay that woman another $2,500 when you get out, or if you want me to put some on your books each week, I can do that," the affidavit claims.

Tarrant County Sheriff's Office Jody Hall is charged with two felony counts of the sale or purchase of a child.

"I've helped a lot of girls like yourself," Hall allegedly wrote the woman on Tuesday, May 7, running through what she called "an open adoption" and promising: "we can help you even when you are not in jail." She allegedly continued, per the affidavit: "You can pick a family and start communicating with them now. We will put $100 weekly on your books and you can spend part of it on the tablet or whatever you wish to buy. What about the birth father of the baby? Is he around?"

In a later exchange, she allegedly referenced the woman's incarceration, noting Child Protective Services "will be called" regarding the baby "and I can get them to close their case if I know you have told the social worker and nurses that you have an adoption plan."

When the woman who had received $846 decided she wanted to keep her child, Hall allegedly called her  per the messages transcribed into the affidavit  a drug addict and a scammer, threatening: I will be telling the prosecutor in your case all about how this [adoptive] family supported you since November and you scammed them WITH THE HELP OF YOUR BOYFRIEND. He's got pictures all over FB of him holding the baby. You are such a liar!!!"

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Texas Penal Code allows for adoption agencies to cover some pregnancy-related expenses of the birth mothers. However, as Tarrant County Jail "incurs all necessary pregnancy-related and living expenses of their inmates," those payments were "unauthorized," making Halls payments illegal, police claimed in the affidavits.

Adoptions International Inc.s accreditation was previously suspended in June 2019 pending additional review, per a notice by the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Consular Affairs.

It was unclear how long the suspension lasted  or what led to it taking place  but the bureau said that for the length of the suspension the adoption agency must cease to provide all adoption services in connection with intercountry adoption cases and was required to transfer their cases to another adoption service provider.

It was not immediately clear if Hall had obtained a lawyer to represent her in the case or if she had entered pleas to the charges.

In Texas, a conviction for one count of the third degree felony sale or purchase of a child carries a sentence of between two and 10 years behind bars.

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Read the original article on People.
Africa hosts 'Olympics of astronomy' for the first time

The News

The International Astronomical Unions General Assembly  held every four years and so, inevitably, known as the Olympics of astronomy  is being hosted in Africa for the first time.

The 32nd meeting of the worlds top space researchers started in Cape Town Monday.

South Africa and several other southern African nations, alongside Australia, will be home to the worlds largest radio telescope, the Square Kilometer Array, the first stage of which is set for completion in 2027. That, as well as the continents growing scientific prowess, led to the decision to host the assembly there.

This is a significant milestone, one African astronomer wrote in The Conversation: Space science in Africa has grown and strengthened tremendously over the past decade.
In less than three months, Pennsylvania voters will head to the polls to elect a new attorney general. Current Attorney General Michelle Henry is not running for the office. She was appointed to the position by her predecessor, Josh Shapiro, after he was elected governor.

One of the two men vying for the job is York County District Attorney Dave Sunday, who describes himself as a prosecutor and not a politician.

Sunday was born in Dauphin County and moved to Cumberland County when he was in ninth grade. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

Sunday in the U.S. Navy

I was a young man and I was deployed all throughout the world, he said. I was deployed to the Persian Gulf for Desert Strike.

After his military career, he put himself through college and law school by working at UPS. Hes now in his second term as district attorney.

Weve been able to decrease our gang violence in the City of York by 80% from 2022 to 2023, Sunday said. Weve decreased homicides during that time period by 75%.

As a prosecutor, hes proud of his record and his work with the Group Violence Initiative to get to the root causes of crime, like substance abuse and mental health. So why run for attorney general now?

I feel that I am at a point in my career where I have this unique experience, having been a prosecutor in the courtroom for as long as I have, the unique experience with policy, the work decreasing overdose deaths and also being a dad who is frightened for the world my son has to grow up in, he said. Now is the time.

Sunday with his wife, Lishani, and their son

If elected, his top priorities include the fentanyl epidemic, protecting the elderly from scams, decreasing gang violence and stopping online child predators.

It is outrageous the amount of efforts that are put into victimizing our children, he said. Parents dont have the ability to keep up with it. You need a chief law enforcement officer to get in there and work on prevention, but youve got to get the bad guys. Youve got to find ways to arrest and prosecute these people.

Sunday said Pennsylvanias next attorney general should be a prosecutor and that hes better suited for the job than his Democratic challenger Eugene DePasquale.

As a citizen, you have to ask yourself who do you want to be the chief law enforcement officer, Sunday said. Do you want someone who has never done that job before or do you want someone who has done that job successfully in a very challenging environment and create positive outcomes. And so I think the difference between the two of us is vast.

Sunday said hes a prosecutor first. And although attorney general is an elected office, he doesnt love to talk politics  even in these divisive political times.

When asked if having former President Donald Trump at the top of the Republican ballot this year helps or hurts his chances, Sunday said I think it helps me, to be honestbut at the same time its hard to judge. No one really knows.

I dont mean to dodge that question, he continued. When I talk to a victim in the courthouse about some horrible crime that happened to them, not one of them asked me how I feel about the presidential race.

Sunday also wont discuss how he personally feels about abortion, saying his opinion wont be part of his job if elected.

Im going to follow the law regardless or what my personal feelings are, he said. And so thats it.

What he does talk passionately about is protecting victims and making streets safer. And he hopes thats enough for Pennsylvania voters in November.

I never imagined Id run for district attorney and I never imagined Id run for attorney general, Sunday said. But its an honor to be here.

To learn more about Sunday, you can visit his campaign website.

On Thursday, James Crummel will sit down with DePasquale.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
In less than three months, Pennsylvania voters will head to the polls to elect a new attorney general. Current Attorney General Michelle Henry is not running for the office. She was appointed to the position by her predecessor, Josh Shapiro, after he was elected governor.

One of the two men vying for the job is York County District Attorney Dave Sunday, who describes himself as a prosecutor and not a politician.

Sunday was born in Dauphin County and moved to Cumberland County when he was in ninth grade. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

Sunday in the U.S. Navy

I was a young man and I was deployed all throughout the world, he said. I was deployed to the Persian Gulf for Desert Strike.

After his military career, he put himself through college and law school by working at UPS. Hes now in his second term as district attorney.

Weve been able to decrease our gang violence in the City of York by 80% from 2022 to 2023, Sunday said. Weve decreased homicides during that time period by 75%.

As a prosecutor, hes proud of his record and his work with the Group Violence Initiative to get to the root causes of crime, like substance abuse and mental health. So why run for attorney general now?

I feel that I am at a point in my career where I have this unique experience, having been a prosecutor in the courtroom for as long as I have, the unique experience with policy, the work decreasing overdose deaths and also being a dad who is frightened for the world my son has to grow up in, he said. Now is the time.

Sunday with his wife, Lishani, and their son

If elected, his top priorities include the fentanyl epidemic, protecting the elderly from scams, decreasing gang violence and stopping online child predators.

It is outrageous the amount of efforts that are put into victimizing our children, he said. Parents dont have the ability to keep up with it. You need a chief law enforcement officer to get in there and work on prevention, but youve got to get the bad guys. Youve got to find ways to arrest and prosecute these people.

Sunday said Pennsylvanias next attorney general should be a prosecutor and that hes better suited for the job than his Democratic challenger Eugene DePasquale.

As a citizen, you have to ask yourself who do you want to be the chief law enforcement officer, Sunday said. Do you want someone who has never done that job before or do you want someone who has done that job successfully in a very challenging environment and create positive outcomes. And so I think the difference between the two of us is vast.

Sunday said hes a prosecutor first. And although attorney general is an elected office, he doesnt love to talk politics  even in these divisive political times.

When asked if having former President Donald Trump at the top of the Republican ballot this year helps or hurts his chances, Sunday said I think it helps me, to be honestbut at the same time its hard to judge. No one really knows.

I dont mean to dodge that question, he continued. When I talk to a victim in the courthouse about some horrible crime that happened to them, not one of them asked me how I feel about the presidential race.

Sunday also wont discuss how he personally feels about abortion, saying his opinion wont be part of his job if elected.

Im going to follow the law regardless or what my personal feelings are, he said. And so thats it.

What he does talk passionately about is protecting victims and making streets safer. And he hopes thats enough for Pennsylvania voters in November.

I never imagined Id run for district attorney and I never imagined Id run for attorney general, Sunday said. But its an honor to be here.

To learn more about Sunday, you can visit his campaign website.

On Thursday, James Crummel will sit down with DePasquale.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
JACKSON, Mich. (WOOD)  A Michigan Department of Corrections officer accused of smuggling narcotics into a prison near Jackson is facing multiple charges, authorities announced Wednesday.

Joshua Evans, 48, of Jackson, was arraigned Tuesday on one count of delivery/manufacture of a controlled substance and one count of bringing contraband into prisons, according to a release from the Michigan Department of Attorney General. The first charge is a seven-year felony, while the second can carry five years, the release says.

Evans worked at the Parnall Correctional Facility, according to the AGs office. On July 11, authorities allege he was found in the visiting room with 151 strips of buprenorphine, which is an opioid.

MDOC worker smuggled drugs into prison, troopers say

Smuggling narcotics into a prison not only endangers the lives of inmates and staff but also undermines some of the rehabilitation efforts that are crucially in place in our penitentiaries, said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel in a statement.

State police are investigating. Evans is set to appear in court for a probable cause conference later this month, the release says.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
AGAWAM, Mass. (WWLP)  National Night Out was observed across western Massachusetts Tuesday, with a goal to get residents better acquainted with first responders.

Agawam residents gathered at School Street Park to meet and interact with local law enforcement officers who serve and protect them. This included members of the Agawam Police Department who were present to foster positive connections with the community and break down barriers.

The community, their first interaction with us is usually not on a good footing. Its probably a traffic stop or maybe its some kind of an emergency that happened, said Jeff Hichorn, Patrolman in Agawam, SRO. So anytime I think that we as a as law enforcement community can get in front of that and meet people where they are in a situation like this that has nothing to do with an emergency and just show, hey, were here for you.

National Night Out was observed by over 16,000 communities across the country Tuesday.

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.
High water and downed trees are blocking dozens of roads in southeastern and central North Carolina on Thursday, as Debby passes through North Carolina.

Most of those roads are secondary, but they also include the southbound lanes of U.S. 17 south of Shallotte in Brunswick County, the main road between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. The northbound lanes of U.S. 421 were closed in Buies Creek because of a downed tree and power lines, but have since reopened.

Interstate highways remained open, except for westbound Interstate 40 near the Fayetteville Road exit in Durham and southbound Interstate 95 near Lumberton, which were both blocked by crashes at about 1 p.m. Both highways were expected to reopen by 4 p.m.

In the Triangle, several streets and roads were partially or completely blocked. The City of Raleigh urged people to stay off greenway trails, many of which follow creeks and streams that are over their banks.

In Chatham County, several roads were closed due to high water or downed trees, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation. Near Wake Forest, Mangum Dairy and Purnell roads were closed due to flooding but have since reopened.

Debby, categorized as a tropical storm most of Wednesday, was downgraded to a tropical depression by late Thursday afternoon.

Downed trees are cleared fairly quickly. But as water recedes, NCDOT can then find that pavement, shoulders or culverts have washed out, requiring repairs that can take days or weeks.

A swollen Walnut Creek continues to rise beneath the bridge on Garner Road, as heavy rain from Tropical Storm Debby moves into the area on Thursday, August 8, 2024 in Raleigh, N.C.

Amtrak said the Carolinian would end its southbound run in Richmond, Virginia, on Thursday because of trees blocking the tracks, then announced the train would continue south as scheduled to the Triangle, Greensboro and Charlotte. Amtrak had previously canceled Florida and Georgia trains that pass through North Carolina ahead of Debbys landfall as a hurricane earlier in the week.

The ferry between Southport and Fort Fisher was closed for a couple of hours Thursday morning but has resumed service. Later in the morning, NCDOT suspended the Pamlico Sound ferries to Ocracoke from Cedar Island and Swan Quarter for the day, as well as the Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach ferry across the Neuse River. The Ocracoke Express passenger ferry is scheduled to stop running at 4 p.m.

The Elwell Ferry across the Cape Fear River in Bladen County is also closed due to high water.

NCDOT said Wednesday that it was prepared for heavy rain and wind that might make roads impassable. That includes more than 12,000 portable signs the department can deploy to indicate that a road is closed or covered with water.

Forecasters say the slow-moving storm could dump up to 15 inches of rain on southeastern North Carolina and up to 10 inches in the central part of the state, including the Triangle.

As of 1 p.m. Thursday, nearly 4 inches of rain had fallen at Raleigh-Durham International Airport since the night before, according to the National Weather Service, though some areas of the Triangle had received 5 inches or more. Wilmington International Airport had received about 8 inches since early Wednesday morning.

That rain is falling on ground saturated by a month of unusually heavy rain, increasing the chance that creeks, swamps and rivers will spill onto roadways.

During his first storm briefing Wednesday morning, Gov. Roy Cooper emphasized the dangers of walking or driving through flood waters. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person down, Cooper said, and 12 inches can carry away most cars.

Now is not the time to see if your car floats, because it doesnt, he said. Our department of transportation and our first responders will tell you that weve lost too many lives after these storms because of people trying to drive through or walk through water.

Ahead of the storm, NCDOT crews worked to clear storm drains and level shoulders to help water drain from the pavement, said Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins. The department has more than 2,200 employees assigned to respond to the storm, with trucks, chainsaws and backhoes fueled up and ready to go, Hopkins said.

Were ready to shift resources if necessary to more troubled areas, he said. But we have people in every county.

For the latest on road conditions in North Carolina, go to drivenc.gov/.
Air-raid warning in Sumy Oblast was in effect for over 24 hours

The all-clear has just been given in Sumy Oblast. The air-raid warning lasted more than 24 hours there.

Source: Oleksii Drozdenko, the Head of Sumy Oblast Military Administration

Quote: "One of the longest air-raid warnings in Sumy Oblast, which lasted more than a day, has ended."

Details: Drozdenko thanked the soldiers and air defence units for their round-the-clock efforts in repelling Russian air attacks, and the residents of Sumy Oblast for their resilience.

Background:

On the night of 6-7 August, two explosions rang out in Sumy. Drozdenko said that after the Russian target was shot down, debris could fall, and as a result, damage and fires could occur. He also urged Sumy residents to be careful.

Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported that air defence units shot down a Russian missile over the oblast on the night of 6-7 August.

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WINDHOEK, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Namibia's Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said Wednesday that the country's natural resources rightfully belong to its citizens and called for the implementation of more robust laws to safeguard this ownership.

The vice president made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 11th edition of the Mining Expo and Conference in Windhoek, the Namibian capital. The two-day event, themed "Green Shoots for Namibia's Mining Industry: A Season of Opportunity and Growth to Drive Economic Expansion," features 199 companies across 317 booths.

"Naturally and constitutionally, it is our resources. What we need is a clear law that will protect that ownership," she said while emphasizing the importance of strong legal frameworks to protect resource ownership and attract investment in the mining sector.

She highlighted Namibia's growth prospects in the uranium and gold sub-sectors. "In alignment with the clean energy transition, many countries have recognized nuclear power as a sustainable and carbon-neutral base-load source of power and have begun to develop or expand their nuclear power capabilities."

She also pointed out the significant potential in Namibia's oil and gas sector, stressing the need for local content policies to ensure Namibians benefit fully from these industries.

The opening of the expo also saw the launch of the National Database of Mining Goods and Services, aimed at helping local businesses access opportunities in the mining sector.

At the event, Tom Alweendo, minister of Mines and Energy, reported an increase in applications for exploration licenses. "As of December 2023, we had over 600 new applications that needed to be evaluated. Since January 2024, we have received over 400 new applications," he said.

Alweendo noted that many awarded exploration licenses could not fulfill their exploration commitments, leading to a policy change where only applicants meeting minimum exploration work requirements will be granted licenses.

Currently, Namibia holds 162 valid mining licenses, with only 68 in active mining. The rest are either on care and maintenance or have not commenced mining activities since issuance.

The government has introduced a new requirement that the terms and conditions of all new mining licenses be formalized in a mining agreement negotiated between the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the license holder.

Mining and exploration remain vital to Namibia's economy, creating direct and indirect employment and contributing significantly to government revenue. 
This airline announced a new route to Daytona Beach

Avelo Airlines grows again at Daytona Beach, returning nonstop service to Philadelphia.

Avelo Airlines announced the return of nonstop service between Daytona Beach International Airport and Wilmington Airport in Philadelphia.

The flight starts on Nov. 7 and will operate this route twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays.

Read: NASA could ask SpaceX to help Boeing spacecraft astronauts return from space station

One-way fares start at $67 from Wilmington Airport.

Avelo Airlines Founder and CEO Andrew Levy said, Daytona Beach  Were back again with more routes for DAB! Were excited to continue growth in Daytona Beach and bring back our nonstop route to Philadelphia.

Read: Orange County law enforcement gives update on significant operation to combat crime

The airlines will now serve three nonstop routes to Daytona Beach International Airport.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Rob Levy, chief operating officer at CRC of Alabama, discusses the company's cultivation of marijuana plants in Pike County, Alabama on July 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Kim Chandler)

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  When Amanda Taylor lived in Arizona, she used medical cannabis to relieve the symptoms of her multiple sclerosis, gastroparesis and other ailments. She returned to Alabama to advocate for medical cannabis in her home state.

Taylor thought victory was in view in 2021 when Alabama overcame years of resistance in the Deep South and approved a medical cannabis program. But three years later, medical marijuana remains unavailable in Alabama because of an ongoing legal fight over some of the licenses to grow and sell the products.

While licensed cultivators have marijuana plants nearing maturity, cannabis products cant be recommended or sold to patients in Alabama while the entire program remains on hold. The delay is exasperating for patients like Taylor.

Its beyond frustrating," Taylor said. Im a very calm person and ... Im always hoping for the best. But at this point, its anger because greed is causing so much more suffering.

The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission has issued licenses to cultivators, processors, and others, but licenses are on hold for five potentially lucrative integrated seed-to-sale licenses where companies grow, process, and sell cannabis as well as licenses for dispensaries that will sell the cannabis products. The entire program remains stalled while the dispute plays out in state court.

We want to see the products out there for patients. Almost daily, we get phone calls from those concerned, said John McMillan, director of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission. That is the No. 1 question we get on our website by far. When are the products going to be available? And everywhere I go, if I speak to civic clubs, thats the first question.

The commission began accepting applications for licenses in 2022 and has attempted to award the licenses three times. The commission rescinded the awards twice after losing applicants raised concerns about the selection process. The panel adopted new rules and awarded licenses for a third time last December. But companies challenged the awards, arguing, among other things that the commission failed to follow the Alabama Administrative Procedures Act.

Montgomery Circuit Judge James Anderson on July 11 issued a temporary restraining order blocking the issuance of the five integrated licenses, saying there was a serious question whether the third round of awards was also invalid.

An attorney for Alabama Always, one of the companies that has pursued litigation after not winning an integrated license, said the commission by law should allow denied companies an opportunity to challenge the qualifications of winning companies.

Thats why this has gone on for so long. They just simply refuse to do it the way it is supposed to be done, Will Somerville, an attorney for Alabama Always, said of the commission.

But for companies that received licenses, the delay is frustrating after they have invested millions of dollars into operations that can't get fully underway.

In an unassuming agriculture building, cloaked by fences and security cameras, 1,500 marijuana plants sprout skyward at a south Alabama facility operated by CRC of Alabama. The plants are about 60 days from harvest, said Rob Levy, chief operations officer for CRC of Alabama.

The plants, grown from varieties with names like apple blossom, hella jelly and blueberry pancakes, are moved through a series of rooms designed to mimic the growing season. The company has invested more than $2 million into the operation, including substantial security costs.

CRC plans to sell their product to one of the states licensed processors who will turn it into cubes and other products. But with the uncertainty surrounding Alabamas program, its unclear when the products can get to patients.

We are all dressed up with nowhere to go, Grady Reeves one of the owners of CRC said. But the ones that are really suffering are the patients."

Dr. Marshall Walker, an interventional radiologist, said he believes medical cannabis could be beneficial for some of his patients with chronic pain. He said its inhumane that manmade problems are blocking its availability.

The way I conceive of it, it really is just another tool for the toolbox, Walker said. Walker said he became convinced of the potential benefit after seeing his mother use cannabis when she had esophageal cancer. It controlled her pain enough to allow her to eat.

A similar fight played out several years ago in Florida. Florida voters in 2016 voted to create a medical marijuana program, but litigation followed over a license cap.

As patients in Alabama remain waiting, more states have moved on to allowing recreational use. Twenty-four states have legalized recreational use of marijuana, according to the Pew Research Center. Florida voters will decide the issue this November.

When medical cannabis will become available in Alabama depends on what happens with the litigation, McMillan said. He said the issue will hopefully be settled by the end of the year.

I dont even use the word optimistic anymore. I just use the word hopeful because we dont know how long these delays are going to continue, McMillan said.
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW)  A man who allegedly escaped from a prison in Wichita was indicted by a federal jury on Wednesday.

The U.S. Department of Justice said Lee Hallford, 42, was charged with one count of escape from custody.

Hallford is accused of unlawfully leaving the custody of the Bureau of Prisons while at the Residential Reentry Center in Wichita.

Cheney coach returns from running 500 miles to Denver

Hallford had been detained based on a conviction in Oklahoma for assault with a dangerous weapon, with intent to do bodily harm in Indian Country.

An investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service is ongoing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.
For some American Jews, a path to German citizenship opens options their ancestors never had

Scott Mayerowitz grew up in New Jersey in a household with resentment toward Germany, his familys motherland.

He has ancestors who were killed in the Holocaust, and his Jewish grandparents were forced to flee their homes there in the 1930s because of the Nazis.

There was always this sense not just that the Nazis had killed the family, but that the whole country had, said Mayerowitz, 46, whose parents refused to have German-made products in the family home or drive a German car.

But as the former political reporter turned travel consultant stood at the German consulate in New York in May 2024 during what he called a very moving naturalization ceremony to become a German citizen, he said he was surprised by his feelings.

I started this process for very practical reasons and did not expect the emotional tie to the motherland to happen, but now there is a bit more of a connection, said Mayerowitz, who first began the application process in 2019, together with his mother and 9-year-old daughter. They are now all naturalized German citizens.

Enshrined in the German constitution since 1949, Article 116 (2) of the Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany grants former German citizens who were persecuted and their descendants restored German citizenship.

It states:

Former German citizens who, between 30 January 1933 and 8 May 1945, were deprived of their citizenship on political, racial or religious grounds and their descendants shall, on application, have their citizenship restored.

For people who can prove their ancestral links and gather the required documents, German citizenship  and with it, European Union citizenship  is within reach.

A pile of paperwork

The application process to restore the familys German citizenship was far from easy, said Mayerowitz, who did not hire a lawyer at any step along the way.

It was an extremely difficult and at times frustrating process. But once we crossed the threshold of being accepted and that we had the right documents, then it became an efficient bureaucracy, he said.

Mayerowitzs mother, Susan, largely (and reluctantly) took the lead on procuring all the documents  marriage licenses, naturalization papers and more  that went as far back as her grandfathers 1869 birth certificate.

I was very hesitant to do it; I would never have done it if it werent for Scott, she said.

All four of Susans grandparents were killed at the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland, in addition to several other family members.

My parents must be turning over in their graves. My mother swore she would never set foot in Germany again, she said.

Scott, who visited Auschwitz with his parents during an Eastern Europe trip in 2006, said he explained to her that his desire to get German citizenship was about the options that come with European Union citizenship.

I told her its not even so much for me as for your granddaughter, he said.

I laid it out that it could open educational opportunities for my daughter, make it easier for her to live and work anywhere in the EU in the future. And finally, I said if for some reason she one day needed to flee the US for persecution, this opened up a lot more doors.

A matter of principle

While the Mayerowitz family handled the application process themselves, many people seeking citizenship turn to attorneys for help.

Marius Tollenaere, a partner at immigration law firm Fragomen in Frankfurt, Germany, says his firm has primarily worked with residents of the United States, Israel, the United Kingdom and South Africa to restore their German citizenship, in addition to other clients from around the world.

American Erin Levi stands next to the grave of her grandfather's grandmother, Babette Berlizheimer, in Germany during a 1991 visit. Levi now has German citizenship. - Courtesy Erin and Bruce Levi/Levi Family Archive

For many clients, it is a matter of principle that they want to use this constitutional right to undo the grave injustice of having been deprived of their German citizenship, he told CNN via email. We also see elderly clients who want to say I am a German citizen again during their lifetime.

We have seen a significant increase in applications from the UK as many clients feel they are cut off from Europe post-Brexit and want to retain those ties to the European Union, he said.

There is no generational limit to who can apply for restoration of German citizenship through Article 116 (2), said Tollenaere, calling it an eternal right of descendants of Germans citizens who faced persecution between 1933 and 1945.

And while the restoration application process is free of charge and does not include a court proceeding, finding old documents to prove family links can be a major stumbling block, he said. And thats where hiring a firm can help.

However, the German citizenship authorities are aware that due to the very nature of the persecution that led to the right to restoration in the first place, not all documents may be available anymore, he said.

Applications also must be completed in German, according to government instructions. Instructions, forms and a list of supporting documents are available online.

It gave me a sense of empowerment

Ann Barnett, 30, of Arlington, Virginia, said she was fortunate when applying to restore her German citizenship through a grandparent that a family member had paved the way before her by procuring all the old documents.

It was her uncle who first approached her with the idea of applying together as a family group that included her mother, two additional uncles and five cousins.

I certainly did have conflicted feelings as a Jewish person given the history in Germany and my anxiety about how it might change my identity/self-perception, she said.

However, as I gave it more thought and went through the process, it gave me a sense of empowerment  a door was open for me to regain status from a country where some of my ancestors had had their German citizenship stolen from them, and which shattered countless lives.

Barnett says her mother was initially upset that she would want citizenship from a country that exterminated so many of their family members.

Eventually though, she came around and accepted my decision (because, unfortunately, of the growing antisemitism in the US), she said.

Barnett said she feels Germany has worked hard to establish means of atonement for their wrongdoings and crimes against humanity  a perspective thats given her hope, even as the idea of traveling to Europe soon on her new German passport makes her stomach flutter with nerves.

As I have moved forward from this process, I have seriously reflected on my own identity as an American-German Jewish person, Barnett said. The takeaway has been learning to accept ownership of a portion of my identity that was obliterated almost 90 years ago.

Not everyone has qualms

Stewart Koesten of the South Florida financial planning firm Aspyre Wealth Partners says he applied for German citizenship for his family as descendants of his mother, who came to the United States in 1934. He said he didnt feel any conflicts in doing so.

Seeking dual citizenship and a fire escape plan is good planning. It isnt an issue of loyalty, but it could be an issue of survival, Koesten said, referring to anti-immigration, anti-semitism, increasing gun incidents in schools, violence on the streets, political issues and income taxes among reasons a family might want an emergency plan.

We met separately with our children to discuss our plans and how we planned to help them should it become necessary. It was not an easy conversation, he said. I also helped educate my cousins here and abroad about the logic of a fire escape plan. To date, many of my family members have followed my counsel and secured citizenship in a second country.

Erin Levi "bathes" in the Black Forest about 80 kilometers southwest of where her grandfather grew up during her first visit back to Germany as a German citizen in 2022. - Courtesy Erin Levi

Erin Levi, 41, a travel writer in Connecticut, said she has always wanted to live in Europe and envied friends who had the option to stay longer than a visa allows.

She first learned about the possibility of getting German citizenship during a trip she took to the country in 2010 with visitors program Germany Close Up. The organization invites North American Jewish students between 18 and 39 to meet modern Germany during programs financed in part by the German Governments Transatlantic Program.

Someone in Berlin mentioned if youre a descendant of a German Jew who lost their citizenship, you can apply to get it reinstated, Levi recalled. Id been jealous of friends getting Italian and Irish citizenship through their relatives and couldnt believe I never knew about it. I thought, Oh, I am definitely going to look into this. 

While both of Levis parents were born in the United States, her dad is the only child of Holocaust survivors and her mothers side has Ukrainian-Jewish roots. She initially tabled her quest after running into trouble finding old documents but eventually found her grandfathers US alien ID card. It was stamped 1942 and had Germany as his country of citizenship.

Levi said it took her at least a year after that to get all of the additional required paperwork together.

I applied on behalf of my sister and myself. And now my dad is like, Its good you have an exit, just in case,  she said.

Looking to the future

Levi said she thinks her grandfather  who died in 2007 at the age of 96 but with whom she got to travel to Germany in the 1990s on a family trip to the town where he grew up  would be proud and happy for her.

And she said that while she hasnt received any pushback from her Jewish American friends for becoming a German citizen, Levi said some German family members who arent Jewish wondered why shed even want a German passport since she already has an American one.

For her, however, its a no-brainer. She said she feels a bit safer in Germany, too, than other countries with rising anti-semitism.

I think Germany has become such a strong ally and supporter of Israel. Its incredible to see the responsibility theyve taken for the atrocities they committed. There arent that many other countries that have, she said.

Scott Mayerowitz concurs.

I do feel Germany, more than any other country, has accepted what the past was and has made sure to educate the next generation so we dont repeat history, he said. Its honestly a lot more than we are doing in some parts of the US right now.

When he went into the German consulate in New York to apply for his German passport, which should be arriving any day now, Mayerowitz said he felt a sense of pride.

I walked into the consulate and was like, this is now also my country, he said.

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GOUVERNEUR, N.Y. (WWTI)  The American Red Cross is helping out three people after a Tuesday fire in St. Lawrence County.

Volunteers from the Central and Northern New York Chapter of the American Red Cross provided immediate emergency aid to three people after a fire early Tuesday morning on Hurst Road in Gouverneur.

Watertown FD rescues person after jumping from Mill Street bridge

The Red Cross provided financial assistance which can be used for necessities such as shelter, food, and clothing to three adults. Volunteers also offered emotional support, comfort kits containing personal care items, and health services.

In the coming days, Red Cross staff and volunteers will remain available to help those affected by the fire as they navigate the road to recovery.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson congratulates Andrew Bailey on being appointed attorney general on Nov. 23, 2022 (photo courtesy of the Missouri Governor's Office).

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson wasnt on the ballot Tuesday.

But he was still one of the biggest winners of the night.

Watching from the sidelines as election results poured in  barred from running again because of term limits  Parsons legacy was before voters in the form of the three men he appointed to statewide office: Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, Attorney General Andrew Bailey and Treasurer Vivek Malek.

Each emerged victorious in Tuesday nights GOP primaries.

In a state that hasnt elected a Democrat to statewide office since 2018, Kehoe is now the favorite to replace Parson as governor, while Bailey and Malek hope to earn full terms in November.

How can you not say that tonight was a great affirmation of all the nominations the governor has made? said Mark Milton, who served as treasurer of Committee for Liberty, the PAC supporting one of Kehoes rivals for the gubernatorial nomination, Jay Ashcroft.

Margie Vandeven, the states former education commissioner, agreed that Tuesday night was a big win for Parson.

Im not surprised, she said. He did a great job.

The governor has made it no secret that the success of his appointees is a big part of the legacy he hopes to leave behind. He touted his impact on state government through his appointees in his final State of the State address to the legislature earlier this year, and has made it clear hes willing to do whatever he can to ensure their success.

In some ways, Parsons entire governing philosophy was on the ballot Tuesday, with his appointees facing candidates who decried the culture of Jefferson City as corrupt and pilloried him as a RINO  a Republican In Name Only.

You got to realize you dont have to agree with everybody on all the issues, but you still got to govern, Parson posted on social media Tuesday morning, and thats what we come up here to do.

Parson did more than just endorse his favored candidates. Throughout the campaign, hes shown a willingness to use his taxpayer-funded office to put his thumb on the scale  earning criticism and allegations that he was illegally using public resources for campaign purposes.

But he largely shrugged off those concerns, and by the campaigns final week, wasnt willing to stand by and let the primaries play out.

The PAC that has supported Parsons political campaigns since 2018  and bankrolled his trips to the Super Bowl the last two years  started spending its massive war chest to boost Kehoe and Bailey.

The money came in large chunks from loyal Parson donors  David Steward, whose technology firm holds contracts with the state; the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association, an industry regulated by the Parson administration; Torch Electronics, a Wildwood-based company accused of operating illegal gambling machines; and MACO Development Co., a beneficiary of low-income housing tax credits.

He also got a $300,000 from the St. Louis law firm of Eric Holland.

Kehoe benefited from some of that spending, but the focus was Bailey, who was working to fend off a well-funded Republican challenger, former assistant U.S. attorney and member of Donald Trumps legal team, Will Scharf.

The pro-Parson PAC ran TV ads attacking Scharf. And days before voters headed to the polls, the governor used official letterhead to publicly condemn an ad attacking Bailey and convened a press conference in the Capitol with the attorney general to announce a crackdown on unregulated cannabis products.

In this race, we were not just up against the Bailey campaign, Scharf told supporters Tuesday night during his concession speech. We were up against the official office of the Attorney General. We were up against Gov. Parson. We were up against the entire Jefferson City establishment.

In an interview last month, Kehoe acknowledged that hes seen by many as Parsons stylistic and ideological successor. But he also said there have been plenty of areas where the two have disagreed over the years.

But we dont air that in public, he said.

His approach to being governor would likely be very different from Parsons, Kehoe said, but he hopes to live up to the high standard he believes Parson has set.

I consider Mike Parson a friend. Ive known him for a long time, Kehoe said. Mike has taken on some very tough challenges. And he has tried to make decisions thats best for Missourians and from his heart.

The Independents Rudi Keller, Annelise Hanshaw and Clara Bates contributed to this story.
By Jason Lange and Trevor Hunnicutt

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris is drawing more support from Black voters than President Joe Biden did when he was in the race this year, while Republican Donald Trump's support among white voters has risen somewhat in recent months, according to an analysis of Reuters/Ipsos polling.

The analysis, which examined more than 10,000 responses from seven nationwide Reuters/Ipsos polls conducted since May, points to significant strengths and vulnerabilities for Harris, the U.S. vice president who took over Biden's campaign when the president dropped his re-election bid on July 21.

Harris would be the first Black woman elected president, as well as the first Asian American, if she were to defeat Trump in the Nov. 5 election.

Some 70% of Black voters polled in July picked Harris over Trump on a hypothetical ballot, up from 59% who backed Biden in May and June polls. Trump's share of the Black vote rose marginally to 12% in July from 9% in May and June.

Trump, meanwhile, is seeing increased support from white voters. Some 50% picked Trump in July polls, up from 46% in May and June. Harris had the support of 38% of white voters in July, compared to 36% in May and June.

The race remains essentially tied, with Harris and Trump each getting 43% support in an aggregate of last month's polls. Biden and Trump each had 40% in the polls conducted in the previous two months.

The analysis examined poll responses gathered throughout July on a hypothetical Harris-Trump contest and included responses from before Biden, 81, ended his bid. All responses on Harris, however, were gathered after Biden's June 27 debate against Trump, when the president's faltering performance led Democrats to call on him to end his campaign.

White voters make up the biggest racial bloc, accounting for 72% of all voters in the 2020 election, according to the Pew Research Center, though their share of the electorate has dropped sharply in recent decades.

African Americans accounted for only 11% of voters that year. But they are a critical component of the Democratic Party's coalition and could play an outsized role in this year's election.

Black voters in Georgia, for example, propelled Biden to victory over Trump in the 2020 presidential election. But a surge in the cost of living and what they see as a lack of progress on racial justice issues has prompted disillusionment in some quarters.

Terrance Woodbury, a Democratic pollster who specializes in minority voter outreach, said Harris needs overwhelming support from African Americans to compensate for her weakness among white voters, particularly white men and seniors. Biden won 92% of the Black vote in 2020, while Trump won 55% of white votes, according to analysis of exit polls by the Pew Research Center.

"She's going to have to consolidate her base of Black voters, of young voters and women of color," Woodbury said.

Harris could be picking up a larger share of Black voters who had previously been on the fence. Some 19% of Black registered voters in July said they were undecided, might pick a third candidate or not vote at all, down from 31% in May and June.

A Harris campaign official said the campaign expects the race to remain close in the run-up to November.

The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment.

Trump has falsely accused Harris of previously downplaying her Black heritage. He drew jeers from a convention of Black journalists when he said she only promoted her Indian heritage in the past. Harris, who is of Indian and Jamaican heritage, has long identified as both Black and Asian.

Reuters combined multiple polls to examine trends among smaller racial and ethnic groups. Margins of error for the poll results varied between about 2 and 6 percentage points.

(Reporting by Jason Lange and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; editing by Andy Sullivan, Kat Stafford and Deepa Babington)
Attendees at the Hong Ting Forum in Beijing, Aug. 6, 2024. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]



The Hong Ting Forum, themed on understanding the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), convened on Tuesday in Beijing, drawing more than 200 diplomats, think tank experts and journalists from over 60 countries for exchanges and discussions.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Qu Qingshan, president of the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the institute's National High-Level Think Tank Council, highlighted the importance of the recently concluded third plenary session that was held as China embarks on a critical period of building a great country and moving toward national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization.

Qu noted that Chinese modernization is constantly advancing amid the reform and opening up, and will undoubtedly open up broad prospects. He also emphasized the need to enhance capacity for opening up while expanding international cooperation.

Fu Hua, president of Xinhua News Agency and chairman of the academic committee of Xinhua Institute, a high-end think tank of Xinhua News Agency, remarked that the third plenary session systematically reviewed the experience gained since the launch of reform and opening up, particularly from comprehensively deepening reform in the new era, and issued overarching plans for further deepening reform to advance Chinese modernization.

This has offered the international community a valuable perspective to better understand China and Chinese modernization, Fu added.

Think tank report "Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization: Major Achievements and Global Contributions," Aug. 6, 2024. [Photo by Xu Xiaoxuan/China.org.cn]

The forum also witnessed the release of a think tank report titled "Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization: Major Achievements and Global Contributions." The report systematically summarizes the major achievements, basic principles and global contributions of the CPC's efforts in deepening reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization in the new era.

During the event, participants discussed a variety of topics including building a great country and moving toward national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization, developing new quality productive forces in line with local conditions, and enhancing capacity for opening up.

Wang Yiming, vice chairman of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, stated that further deepening reform is essential to promoting improvement of the economic structure, the transformation of growth drivers and the shift in development models, thereby injecting stronger momentum into Chinese modernization.

Timur Faizullin, a Russian expert from the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, shared his insights on the development of artificial intelligence and 5G in China, drawing from his personal experiences living in the country. He praised the high-tech, efficient and high-quality life experiences these advancements have enabled.

Aldonov Frankeko Alvarez, El Salvador's ambassador to China, spoke about how impressed he was with the inclusiveness of Chinese modernization. He observed that China has created a development model tailored to its social, historical, demographic and cultural realities, benefitting all its people.

The Hong Ting Forum, co-organized by the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Xinhua News Agency, hosted its inaugural event in 2022. It aims to present new concepts, categories and expressions of CPC history and theories to the international community, and to create an important platform for international think tank exchanges.
FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris holds a ball signed by the members of the currently number 1 ranked women's NCAA basketball team South Carolina Gamecocks during a visit in Columbia

FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris holds a ball signed by the members of the currently number 1 ranked women's NCAA basketball team South Carolina Gamecocks during a visit in Columbia

By Ted Hesson, Kristina Cooke and Trevor Hunnicutt

WASHINGTON - Vice President Kamala Harris is toughening her position on illegal immigration, taking on hardliner Donald Trump on his signature issue in a series of campaign events and digital ads in coming weeks, according to campaign staff.

The campaign plans to promote Harris' support for a bipartisan border security bill - defeated in the Senate in February after Trump came out against it - that would have increased funding for border agents and detention facilities, an official said.

Harris' more combative approach on immigration is expected to be on display as she campaigns around the country with her running mate Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, who was chosen in part for his appeal to voters in America's heartland.

Harris will also highlight Trump's most divisive actions, such as his 2018 policy that separated thousands of migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border and an executive order in 2017 that sought to ban travel from certain Muslim-majority countries. A version of the ban was upheld by the Supreme Court a year later.

A campaign official said Harris had a chance to reintroduce herself to voters after becoming the Democratic presidential candidate following U.S. President Joe Biden's exit from the race last month.

"It's all part of a larger effort by Harris to be direct and to go directly at Trump," said Matt Barreto, a pollster who has worked with the Harris and Biden campaigns. "Democrats always do well when they lean in on the immigration issue and don't run away from it."

The enforcement-first position is a departure from Biden's 2020 campaign, when he pledged a more humane approach to immigration than Trump. Biden gradually hardened his approach as illegal crossings increased.

The Trump campaign has sought to blame Harris for illegal immigration, dubbing her a failed "border czar," though her portfolio was focused on the drivers of migration from Central America.

"If dangerously liberal Kamala is president, our border will remain wide open to terrorists and criminals from around the world who will face no consequence for committing heinous migrant crimes," Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in a statement, when asked about Harris' record.

HARRIS TOUTS PROSECUTION RECORD

Harris began setting out her new, more combative strategy in a speech in Atlanta last week, criticizing Trump for helping to sink the border security bill.

She also touted her record on border-related prosecutions as California attorney general. "I went after transnational gangs, drug cartels, and human traffickers that came into our country illegally," she said. "I prosecuted them in case after case, and I won."

Harris has made the border security bill a centerpiece of her platform, and a digital campaign ad has cast the election as a choice between "the one who will fix our broken immigration system. And the one who's trying to stop her."

Jeffrey Jarman, a Wichita State University professor who focuses on political communication, said Harris' push-back was a way to avoid ceding the issue of border security to Republicans.

"Failure to talk about the issue allows Republicans to completely dominate the discussion and frame her in the most unflattering way," he said.

But he acknowledged that going on the offensive is unlikely to win over Republican voters and that Harris risked getting sidetracked on issues that are not as important to her supporters.

"Candidates who spend too much time talking about the issues of their opponent will always face a more difficult time winning the election," he said.

Numerous polls suggest voters have grown more concerned with high levels of illegal immigration under Biden. In a Reuters/Ipsos poll in May, some 45% of registered voters said immigration has made life harder for native-born Americans.

Illegal crossings have plummeted since Biden issued new restrictions on asylum at the border in June.

A memo published on Friday by the advocacy group Immigration Hub argued that Harris could energize voters if she pairs her enforcement record with protections for immigrants already in the U.S. illegally, citing polling for seven battleground states.

Harris played a key role in the Biden administration's announcement in June that it would provide a path to citizenship to spouses of immigrants in the U.S. illegally, as Reuters previously reported.

Trump has promised to launch mass deportations if reelected.

Ken Budge, the Democratic mayor of the 5,000-person border city of Bisbee, Arizona, said high illegal crossings in recent years have at times made it challenging to provide basic necessities to migrants as they passed through.

He said the Harris campaign wanted to solve the border problem. "They don't want to just kick the can down the road."

Tom Suozzi, a New York Democrat who won a special election to Congress in February by taking a tough stand on the border, said a member of Harris' team texted him a link to her social media ad on immigration last week, saying they thought he would like it.

"A lot of my consultants and a lot of political people were saying, 'What are you talking about immigration for? It's a Republican issue,'" Suozzi said in an interview.

"I said, 'No, it's an American issue. It's what people are talking about.'"

(Reporting by Ted Hesson, Kristina Cooke and Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Suzanne Goldenberg)
Ancient 13,000-year-old tree threatened by massive housing development program: 'We have this treasure that is not being protected'

One of the world's oldest living organisms, the Jurupa Oak, is threatened by a proposed development project.

What's happening?

This ancient tree, estimated to be between 13,000 and 18,000 years old, stands on the edge of a 1.4-square-mile development that includes a business park, 1,700 homes, and an elementary school. According to The Washington Post, environmentalists and locals are deeply concerned that the construction and subsequent urbanization could endanger the oak, which has miraculously survived through an ice age and rapid climate changes.

The development proposal is currently under review by the Jurupa Valley Planning Commission, but has sparked significant debate and opposition, with many urging for its rejection or modification to protect the tree.

Why is saving the Jurupa Oak important?

The Jurupa Oak is not just a tree; it's a living testament to endurance and resilience, having survived for millennia in a region that has dramatically changed. Unlike typical trees, the Jurupa Oak is a clonal organism, meaning it regenerates from its ancient root system, making it unique and irreplaceable.

This oak represents an irreplaceable piece of natural history, potentially dating back to the era of saber-toothed cats and giant sloths. Its survival in an area far outside its normal ecological zone adds to its significance, highlighting a remarkable ecological anomaly.

"It's mind-boggling, it really is  that we have this treasure that is not being protected," said Arleen Pruitt, chair pro tem of the Planning Commission.

What's being done about the Jurupa Oak?

The calls to protect the Jurupa Oak are ongoing, with local scientists, conservationists, and residents advocating for stronger measures.

The developer, Richland Communities, has proposed a 200-foot buffer zone and pledged $250,000 to protect the tree, but environmentalists argue that these measures are insufficient.

The Jurupa Valley Planning Commission is considering creating a larger buffer zone and further investigating the oak's root system to ensure its protection. Additionally, the community's vocal opposition to the development underscores the importance of grassroots activism in environmental conservation. As the commission prepares to make a final decision, the spotlight remains on how to balance economic growth with the preservation of irreplaceable natural heritage.

This conservation challenge echoes broader efforts to protect ancient ecosystems and species. A recent study showed well-funded conservation programs significantly improve biodiversity, with wildlife reserves and invasive species eradication leading to improvements in 45% of cases studied. Similarly, in Japan, conservationists are rewilding monoculture tree plantations into mixed-use forests to support local wildlife, such as the endangered Japanese golden eagles. These efforts showcase that sustainable development and environmental protection can go hand in hand.

Therefore, It is crucial to prioritize the preservation of natural wonders like the Jurupa Oak, ensuring they continue to inspire and educate 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.
Roughly one out of every four people on Earth depends on freshwater supplied by the glacial regions that cover 10 percent of our planet's surface.

It's also a precious resource in crisis, with new research showing just how rapidly these frozen ecosystems are now expected to change.

A new study by an international team of scientists reveals glaciers in the tropics are melting faster than forecast, retreating to sizes researchers hadn't expected to see for years.

"This shocked us, frankly," University of California, Berkeley paleoclimatologist Andrew Gorin told New Scientist. "I think this is clear evidence that at least one region in the world has now departed the hospitable climatic conditions that have fostered the development of human civilization."

Gorin adds, "We're quickly blowing past climate milestones that we thought were decades away."

Gorin's team found a suspicious lack of beryllium-10 and carbon-14 isotopes in the minerals bordering glaciers in the Andes mountains, indicating the last time these rocks felt the warmth of our Sun was at least 11,700 years ago. This suggests parts of the mountain range haven't seen such a low level of glaciation since before the Holocene  the period that birthed human civilization.

Glaciers collect water in the form of snow through winter and release it during summer melts, providing water for billions. As the glaciers retreat, less freshwater becomes available below.

The Andes region is already experiencing record breaking droughts and water shortages as a consequence, as well as fatal floods as melt pools burst from the ice that once held them.

But it's not just in the Andes. Previous research has found accelerating glacial melt from the Himalayas to Alaska as well.

"Glaciers are very sensitive to the climate system that they live in," explains University of WisconsinMadison geoscientist Shaun Marcott. "They really are the place you would look to see some of the first big changes resulting from a warming climate. You can look to these glaciers and imagine what we might be looking at going into the future in other places like the Western United States, which is a no-ice scenario."

Between decreasing meltwater from receding glaciers and saltwater incursion from rising seas, major rivers like the Magdalena and Ganges will experience decimating flow reductions. This could see entire populations forced to migrate in search of water, warned UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in a statement last year.

"In Asia, for example, 10 major rivers originate in the Himalaya region, supplying freshwater to 1.3 billion people living in its watershed," explained Guterres.

Another recent study by a different group of researchers found just how drastically the local environment can change without a coating of ice.

Analyzing characteristics that include soil properties, microclimate, biodiversity represented by environmental DNA, a team of researchers led by Monash University glaciologist Levan Tielidze found that as the ice retreats, new life is quick to move in to replace the old.

The consequences of this loss of established species and establishment of new interactions isn't clear. Given it is likely to be a pattern that will spread from the tropics around the globe as the planet warms, we ought to learn more about the impacts of environmental change on surrounding ecosystems.

"Across the globe, from the Alps to the Arctic, glaciers are shrinking, leaving increasingly larger areas exposed both in mountainous regions and around polar ice caps," says Tielidze.

"The retreat of glaciers is one of the most evident signs of climate change."

These studies were published in Science and Nature.

Related News
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey delivers a victory speech to supporters in Columbia after winning the primary election against Republican attorney general hopeful Will Scharf on Tuesday (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).

COLUMBIA  Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey survived a tough primary challenge from a member of former president Donald Trumps legal team on Tuesday to win the GOP nomination for a full term in office.

His opponent, Will Scharf, conceded the race shortly before 8:30 p.m. with Bailey leading 62% to 37%. Bailey soon addressed a crowd of supporters at the Stoney Creek Hotel in Columbia.

Taking the stage with his young son in one arm, Bailey raised his fist and deepened his voice.

Tomorrow, when reveille sounds, Bailey said, speaking about himself in third person, Andrew Bailey will grab his rucksack and his rifle and will stand in formation with other conservative leaders as we march on to victory in November.

Bailey has held the office since November 2022, when he was appointed attorney general by Gov. Mike Parson after his predecessor Eric Schmitt won a U.S. Senate seat. At the time Bailey was Parsons general counsel and had no experience in elected office.

An Army veteran and former assistant prosecutor, Bailey has said much of his career has been shaped by his time as an assistant prosecutor and county juvenile office in Missouri. He and his wife went on to foster and then adopt three of their four children.

I am committed to serving the people of this state and delivering transformative, conservative change, he told a cheering crowd Tuesday.

Bailey promised to continue fighting the Biden administration and strengthening consumer protection.

His most high-profile cases since becoming attorney general include twice suing to block federal student loan forgiveness, and carrying forward a lawsuit alleging the Biden administration was censoring conservatives online by pressuring social media companies.

Bailey has also touted awarding $32 million in settlements and judgments on behalf of defrauded Missourians through his offices Consumer Protection Division.

Dorothy Berry, 71, said she was upset when Parson appointed Bailey instead of former state Sen. Kurt Schaefer, whom she favored. Berry kept a close eye on Bailey, ready to make a list of his mistakes. But at the end of the day, she said she couldnt find any to write home about.

She said she agreed with Baileys role in the closure of Washington University Transgender Center at St. Louis Childrens Hospital and his push to drive former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner out of office.

Berry, who spent more than two decades working for Missouri lawmakers, said she also liked that Bailey spent much of his childhood in Missouri.

He graduated from Rock Bridge High School, Berry said. Hes not some St. Louis or Kansas City millionaire.

Bailey on the campaign trail often rebuked Scharf as Wall Street Willie. Scharf, who grew up in New York and graduated from Princeton University and Harvard Law School, moved to Missouri in 2011.

Meanwhile, PACs backing Scharf spent millions attacking Baileys record. Scharfs campaign committee and associated PAC raised $9 million in the campaign, including from influential conservative activist Leonard Leo. Bailey raised $4.1 million.

Bailey has faced accusations of corruption, incompetence and grandstanding, with his critics alleging hes more interested in scoring appearances on Fox News than effectively running the sprawling office or winning in the courtroom.

Bailey recused himself from a gambling lawsuit filed against the Missouri State Highway Patrol after PACs connected to the lobbyist of the companies suing the state wrote checks to the committee supporting Baileys campaign.

He was also criticized for accepting $50,000 in campaign donations from Doe Run, a St. Louis-based company being sued by thousands of Peruvians over allegations of lead smelter poisoning in their mining town in the Andes. A few months before the donation, Bailey filed a brief asking the federal court to move the lawsuit out of Missouri.

Just this week, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected Baileys attempts to delay the sentencing hearing in Trumps hush money case in New York, which is scheduled for September.

Julie Engelbrecht, a Scharf supporter from Ladue who attended his watch party, said she believes Scharfs legal successes are lengths ahead of Baileys, noting several cases Bailey lost, and several attorneys whove left his office.

But in the end, Bailey benefited from a late endorsement of both candidates by Trump, taking away one of Scharfs most potent campaign messages  his close ties to the former president.

Bailey also enjoyed late support from Parson, who even used his official office to boost the attorney general in the campaigns final days.

Early Tuesday evening, Scharf told The Independent he was hoping for a long night, meaning a close race.

That didnt come to fruition. An hour into vote counting, his corner of campaign staff looked concerned, hunching over laptops in a corner of Kruegers bar in Clayton.

Scharf during a concession speech a short time later said he called Bailey to concede and offer his full support in the general election.

Im not going anywhere, Scharf said Tuesday night. I intend to continue chalking up wins for President Trump and for the conservative movement in the months and years ahead. Im just deeply sorry that I wont be doing that as the states next attorney general.

Bailey later tipped his hat to Scharfs tough-fought campaign.

This is someone whos worked for President Trump in the past, and he pledged his support in the future, he said, and Im excited to look for ways to partner in the future to move the state in a good direction.

Bailey will face Democratic candidate Elad Gross in the November general election. Gross, a former assistant attorney general who runs a St. Louis law firm, has been an outspoken champion of Sunshine law and, like Scharf, a fierce critic of Bailey.

Baileys speech was brief, ending when his son polished off his cookie.

Thats my signal, Bailey said, to cease and desist.
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who has targeted LGBTQ+ people during his 17 months in office, is one step closer to holding on to his job. Bailey beat Will Scharf in a Republican primary for state attorney general on Tuesday.

Former President Donald Trump had endorsed both Bailey and Scharf on Truth Social.

Bailey was first appointed to the attorney general position by Missouri Gov. Mike Parsons (R) in January 2023. Since then, he has launched investigations against a childrens hospital, gym and retailer that provide services or a safe and affirming space for transgender Missourians.

One of the first actions Bailey took as attorney general was to attempt to investigate the Washington University Pediatric Transgender Center at St. Louis Childrens Hospital after a former caseworker, Jamie Reed, accused the center of malpractice. Bailey gave Reed whistleblower protection and began asking the hospital for patient medical records; later, he also asked for information on therapists and social workers across the state who worked with trans youth. A Missouri judge eventually found that Baileys office had no right to private medical information.

Last year, Bailey also signed an emergency rule that created a burdensome set of requirements for trans people of all ages seeking gender-affirming care. He withdrew the emergency order only when the Republican-led legislature passed its own ban on gender-affirming care for minors, Medicaid recipients and incarcerated people.

Katy Erker-Lynch, the executive director of PROMO, a Missouri LGBTQ advocacy group, said Baileys actions have created a hostile environment for medical providers where they are afraid to stay and practice medicine.

And just days before the states primary election, Bailey sent out a stark warning to a St. Louis gym that had come under scrutiny from conservatives for allowing a transgender woman to use the womens locker room.

While it might be considered fashionable in certain corporate boardrooms to pretend that biology is irrelevant, the American heartland still lives in reality, Bailey wrote in a statement to the companys CEO.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has opposed efforts to release people from prison after courts have overturned their murder convictions. David A. Lieb via AP

Across the country, GOP state attorneys general have increasingly tried to use their power to make life more challenging for transgender people. Like Bailey, many have tried to use their consumer protection powers to obtain private medical information. A U.S. Senate Finance Committee report said that such officials were weaponizing their oversight authorities for their own political gain, at the expense of LGBTQIA+ people and their families.

Bailey was also one of 22 Republican attorneys general to sue the Biden administration over its new Title IX rules, which expand protections more explicitly for LGBTQ+ students in federally funded schools.

If Bailey wins in November, he will no doubt be able to continue his anti-trans crusade  along with his efforts to stomp out diversity programs and keep innocent people incarcerated  in the deep-red state.

Bailey will face Democrat Elad Gross in November. Gross has heavily criticized Bailey and other Republicans for how much their anti-transgender policies distract from issues that are important to everyday Missourians and has proposed launching a civil rights division that focuses on protecting LGBTQ+ residents against discrimination.
Two animal rights protestors disrupted Pope Franciss weekly audience at the Vatican with shouts for an end to bullfighting.

The female activists from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) organisation held signs saying Bullfighting is a sin and wore T-shirts saying Stop blessing bullfighting.

The two women walked down an aisle inside the Vaticans Paul VI hall staging their protest before being escorted from the venue by security officials.

Peta has long urged the Pope to cut the Catholic Churchs historic links and associations with bullfighting and to condemn the despicable blood sport.

The sport, which involves taunting and stabbing a bull in a ring before killing it, is a cultural tradition in Spain but remains legal in parts of France and South America.

Tens of thousands of bulls are still being tormented and violently killed in bullrings every year, Peta says on its website.

Because these gruesome spectacles are often held in honour of Catholic saints and on holy days, the Catholic Church can and must help end this abuse by condemning bull torture in the name of religion.

The two women were escorted from the venue by security as they staged their protest - ALBERTO PIZZOLI

Francis was holding his first general audience after a month-long summer break in July. It was the second time that protesters affiliated with Peta had demonstrated at a papal event this year.

In January, two women held a similar protest about bullfighting during a prayer service featuring the pope at Romes Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.

On that occasion two activists from Peta unfurled a banner featuring a photo of the Archbishop of Caracas, Baltazar Enrique Porras Corrado, who the organization has accused of being a bullfighting fan. The activists also claim that some Catholic clergy offer blessings to bullfighters.

Francis, who has made protection of the environment a signature issue of his 11-year papacy, does not appear to have publicly commented on bullfighting. But one of his predecessors, the 16th-century Pope Pius V, did outlaw bullfighting, calling the practice better suited to demons rather than men.

British priest Terry Martin recently made headlines for his opposition to bullfighting in a campaign with Peta and has also called on the pope to condemn it.

The priest from West Sussex was pictured posing in a red chasuble next to a bull with the inscription: It is a sin to torture animals.

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Rescue workers rescue a person from a partially collapsed hotel. According to the latest information, nine people may be under the rubble and there is contact with some of them, the police announced on Wednesday night. Harald Tittel/dpa

Another person has been rescued alive from the rubble of a partially collapsed hotel in western Germany.

A spokesman for the emergency services said on Wednesday that one person is still trapped in the remains of the building, and rescue workers are in contact with them.

The spokesman said that the site is currently stable, and it's hoped the trapped person will be reached before sunset. There was initially no information about the extent of their injuries.

One floor of the hotel, in the small town of Krov on the Moselle river, collapsed late on Tuesday evening.

Two people were killed, a woman born in 1961, and a man whose body has not yet been recovered. Among those rescued were a 2-year-old boy and his mother.

Firefighters rescue buried victims from a partially collapsed hotel. According to the latest information, nine people may be under the rubble and there is contact with some of them, the police announced on Wednesday night. Thomas Frey/dpa
Another Russian ex-defense official arrested on corruption charges

Vladimir Demchik, a former head of the Property Department of the Russian Defense Ministry, was arrested on corruption charges, the Russian Investigative Committee reported on Aug. 6.

Demchik is suspected of taking a four-million ruble ($46,900) bribe in 2017 from the CEO of a commercial organization that wanted to win government contracts.

Since April, several Russian high-ranking military officials have been arrested on charges ranging from bribery to abuse of power after the dismissal of Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov.

In mid-May, Russian President Vladimir Putin also dismissed his longtime ally Sergei Shoigu from the post of defense minister. Shoigu was replaced by former First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov.

Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) also recently reported a sharp increase in registered criminal proceedings for bribery in the Russian military.

In the Southern Military District of the Russian Armed Forces alone, the number of criminal cases opened over five months of 2024 due to illegal dismissal from service through bribery has tripled, according to HUR.

Almost half of these proceedings are being investigated in the 8th Combined Arms Army, whose units are deployed in Ukraine.

Read also: Russian ex-deputy defense minister arrested on corruption charges

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(KRON)  An Antioch man who admitted to trafficking a 13-year-old girl for commercial sex purposes will be sentenced to 24 years in state prison, according to the Monterey County District Attorney. Marcus T. Carter, 41, pleaded no contest to a felony charge of human trafficking of a minor for purposes of commercial sex acts, the DA said.

Carter served a prior prison sentence and was previously convicted for robbery in Alameda County in 2013, constituting a strike under Californias Three Strikes Law. Carters conviction for trafficking a minor constitutes another strike. In addition to being sentenced to 24 years in prison next month, Carter will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

The victim in the case, identified as Jane Doe, escaped to a gas station around Kern Street in Salinas at approximately 7:30 p.m. on April 10, 2021, to seek police assistance. Officer Jonathan Tuiolosgea with the Salinas Police Department responded and met with Jane Doe.

Most Wanted fugitive sought in 2004 murder found working as police officer

At the time, she had just turned 13, had two black eyes and a swollen jaw, according to the DA. Carter, Jane Doe told police, had taken her from Stockton and forced her to engage in commercial sex acts with buyers in California and Reno, Nevada, for approximately one to two weeks.

A Salinas PD investigation revealed that Carter had taken her on April 3, 2021 and forced her to engage in commercial sex acts in Antioch, Pittsburg, San Jose, Reno, and Salinas, among other cities.

Jane Doe alerted officers that Carter and his two female associates were in the area, possibly in a rental car with Missouri plates, or a Jaguar belonging to one of the females.Another Salinas PD officer, Luis Dorantes, located one of the describe vehicles with Carter in it and arrested him immediately.

Salinas PD Detective Luis Toribio and DA Investigator Pablo Andrade worked with agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation to pursue every lead and collect every piece of evidence possible, the DA said. Evidence collected from Jane Doe, local motels, Carters female associates, involved vehicles, and Carters cellphone activity corroborated the victims statements.

Through the process, Jane Doe was supported by Victim Witness Program Manager Alma Sanchez, according to the DA.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
CAIRO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized on Wednesday the need to bolster efforts to secure navigation in the Red Sea amid escalating regional tensions, according to a statement from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

Abdelatty made the remarks during a meeting in Cairo with Vasileios Gryparis, operation commander of the European Union's Aspides naval mission, established in February to address the Red Sea crisis.

He highlighted the necessity of ensuring a safe environment for commercial vessels, noting that threats to navigation in the Red Sea have significantly impacted the Egyptian economy by reducing Suez Canal revenues.

"Egypt is one of the most impacted countries in the world because of this situation," the foreign minister said.

He attributed the regional escalation to the ongoing Israeli conflict in Gaza and policies of assassination.

Gryparis expressed his commitment to engaging with countries affected by the Red Sea tensions, particularly Egypt and reviewing successful operations against Houthi attacks.

The EU official stressed the need for coordinated efforts to secure navigation in the Red Sea.

Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted in October last year, the Houthis in Yemen have targeted ships linked to Israel in the Red Sea in a show of solidarity with the Palestinians. In response, the United States and Britain have conducted multiple airstrikes on Houthi military positions in Yemen's capital, Sanaa, and other areas under Houthi control since January 12. 
Georgia State School Superintendent Dr. Richard Woods says the state will now approve state funding for a new Advanced Placement African American Studies course.

Woods had originally cited the states divisive concepts law as one of the reasons he chose not to approve the course and sought help from the Georgia Attorney Generals Office for clarification on the law.

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It has been determined that this law shall not restrict local school systems from adopting any AP, IB, or dual enrollment course. Each such course will be exempted from the provisions of the divisive concepts legislation, so long as these courses are implemented in a professionally and academically appropriate manner and without espousing personal political beliefs, Woods wrote in a statement.

Channel 2 Action News reported previously that Woods said he believed allowing the course would force him to break his oath of office and ignore the law.

In the roughly two weeks since Woods initial announcement that schools would not be allowed to teach AP African American Studies, pushback was swift from a variety of lawmakers.

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At one point, Gov. Brian Kemp asked for clarity on the decision-making process by Woods, citing Georgias status as a state where parents were responsible for deciding what their childrens academic needs were, and how to meet them.

In the letter from the governor to Woods in July, Kemp said Families should ultimately make the decisions which best meet their childs academic needs and futures, in a phrase reminiscent of his previous commentary on parental rights in education, such as when he signed off on the bill banning so-called divisive concepts, 2022s Parents Bill of Rights legislation.

School districts and state officials have continued to review what the next steps for the program might be. Some school districts have pledged to fund the course on their own, while others said without the state funds, they could not.

But Wednesdays decision appears to put much of those worries to rest.

As I have said, I will follow the law. In compliance with this opinion, the AP African American Studies course will be added to the state-funded course catalog effective immediately, Woods said.

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APD asking for help identifying serial commercial burglar

AUSTIN (KXAN)  The Austin Police Department is asking for the publics help identifying a person it calls a serial commercial burglar.

APD said it has received numerous reports of business burglaries along the Manor Road area in east Austin, near the area that stretches from I-35 to Springdale Road.

Detectives identified a primary suspect as the investigation progressed, and police said this same suspect has been observed on surveillance video committing multiple burglaries in the area since July 2023.

Police said the suspect has a distinct modus operandi (MO) and description.

The suspect is described as:

Man in his 20s

Approximately 510

Thin build

Commonly seen wearing a black or dark grey hooded long sleeve shirt with a green hooded undershirt

The suspect was last seen wearing black jogger-type pants with a small Nike symbol on the left thigh and slide-on sandals with a Longhorn logo and socks.

APD asking for help identifying serial commercial burglar. Police have received numerous reports of business burglaries along the Manor Road area in east Austin, near the area that stretches from I-35 to Springdale Road. (Photo: Austin Police Department)

APD asking for help identifying serial commercial burglar. Police have received numerous reports of business burglaries along the Manor Road area in east Austin, near the area that stretches from I-35 to Springdale Road. (Photo: Austin Police Department)

APD asking for help identifying serial commercial burglar. Police have received numerous reports of business burglaries along the Manor Road area in east Austin, near the area that stretches from I-35 to Springdale Road. (Photo: Austin Police Department)

APD asking for help identifying serial commercial burglar. Police have received numerous reports of business burglaries along the Manor Road area in east Austin, near the area that stretches from I-35 to Springdale Road. (Photo: Austin Police Department)

Anyone with any information about the suspected burglar, including the identity of any potential accomplices, may submit a tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling (512) 472-TIPS.

A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for any information that leads to an 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 KXAN Austin.
Louisiana Supreme Court building in New Orleans (Wes Muller/Louisiana Illuminator)

NEW ORLEANS  Louisianas Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal must decide before Thursday evening whether all three candidates in the newly created majority-Black election district for the Louisiana Supreme Court can stay in the race.



All 12 judges on the appellate court presided over a short hearing Wednesday afternoon in the lawsuit seeking to throw two of three Supreme Court candidates in District 2 off the Nov. 5 ballot.

Regardless of their ruling the case is expected to go the Louisiana Supreme Court for review before being settled.

If successful, the lawsuit would make John Michael Guidry, chief judge for the First Circuit Court of Appeal in Baton Rouge, a new Louisiana Supreme Court justice by default because he would be the only remaining candidate in the race.



A Baton Rouge voter who is a plaintiff in the lawsuit, Elise Knowles Collins, testified at a district court hearing last week that her daughter works for Guidry as an attorney. Collins wasnt present for Wednesdays appellate court hearing, but Guidry and his wife attended in person.

In the lawsuit, Collins alleges Leslie Chambers, chief of staff for the Louisiana Housing Corporation, should be disqualified as a Supreme Court candidate because Chambers is not a resident of the district where she is seeking office. District 2 is centered around Baton Rouge and extends up to Monroe, but it does not include Ascension Parish where Chambers lives.

The lawsuit also seeks to knock Chambers and Marcus Hunter, a judge with the Second Circuit Court of Appeal in Monroe, out of the race for not filing their taxes every year over the past five years, which is a requirement for candidates in the race. Its alleged Chambers did not file her 2022 tax return and Hunter didnt file returns for 2021, 2022 or 2023.

Collins attorney, David Bienvenu, spent almost all of his time before the appellate judges Wednesday making the case for why Chambers should be removed from the race. He barely addressed Hunters failure to file taxes.

Its not clear whos paying for Bienvenu or the rest of the legal team behind Collins lawsuit. Bievenu said Wednesday it would be inappropriate for him to reveal who is paying him.



The appellate judges gave no indication where they might land on the case. Only six of the 12 judges spoke during the hearing, and just five asked questions to attorneys.





Residency challenge

State law requires election candidates to live in the district where they run for office for at least a year before signing up as a candidate. Bienvenu pointed out that Chambers, who has admitted to never living in District 2, cant even vote for herself in the election where she is seeking office.

Chambers attorney, Gray Sexton, argued his client doesnt have to live in the district to be a candidate in this particular race because the new Supreme Court districts were only approved in early May, less than three months before people were asked to sign up for the race in July.

District 2 was moved out of northwest Louisiana to Baton Rouge and Monroe, and none of the candidates lived within its old boundaries, Sexton said. For example, Chambers lived in the old District 5, which used to include Baton Rouge before it was moved to District 2. Now, District 5 is based on Louisiana Gulf of Mexico coast.



Sexton said the Louisiana Supreme Court previously ruled that local government officials and state legislators can run for office in districts where they werent residents as long as the district overlaps with a portion of an old seat where they live. Chambers would meet this requirement.

Bienvenu countered that this exception to the residency rule only applies to state legislators, as explicitly stated in the Louisiana Constitution, and candidates for police juries and town or city councils. To apply it to the judiciary would require a state constitutional amendment that needs voter approval, he said.



Fourth Circuit Judges Daniel Dysart, an independent from District 3, and Rosemary Ledet, a Democrat from District 1, appeared sympathetic to Chambers arguments about her residency.

Ledet questioned whether any of the candidates met the state constitutions residency requirement for District 2, if none of them lived in District 2 when it was based in northwest Louisiana earlier this year.

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Tax filing challenge





Chambers and Hunter have also argued they submitted their late tax filings in June and July of this year  before they signed up to run for the Supreme Court  but their paperwork might not have been transmitted properly or received.



On Wednesday, Sexton reiterated that Chambers has filed all of her tax returns through TurboTax and never faced a problem, except with the possibility of her 2022 return. He then said he believes Chambers made a good faith effort to file her 2022 tax return because TurboTax told her she was entitled to a refund of more than $4,500.



A couple of the appellate judges asked whether Chambers, who did not attend Wednesdays hearing in person, had any more records to show she had submitted her taxes.



Is there anything to show there was a transmittal? Judge Sandra Cabrina Jenkins asked Sexton. Any physical evidence?



Sexton replied that Chambers testified under oath that she tried to file the taxes. She also submitted to the court a copy of a draft of her tax refund with TurboTax, indicating she was owed a large tax refund.

A candidate who is entitled to a refund is  not trying to avoid paying her taxes, Sexton said. She did everything she could reasonably do.

Daniel Hunter, the brother and attorney for Marcus Hunter, said Marcus Hunter submitted his 2021 tax return last year and attempted to submit his 2022 and 2023 tax returns in July, though they were ultimately rejected over a technical issue.

Hunters certified public accountant sent Hunter a letter indicating his 2022 and 2023 tax returns had been filed July 16, the day before he signed up to run for Supreme Court. Marcus Hunter believed the letter indicated he met the requirements to qualify for the election, Daniel Hunter said.



Marcus Hunter didnt learn that his tax returns werent accepted until Collins lawsuit was filed in late July. His accountant had entered the incorrect personal identification number.



Our client, in good faith, filed taxes through their CPA, Daniel Hunter said.



Bienvenu argued a good faith effort doesnt meet the threshold set out for candidates in the law.



The law doesnt allow a candidate to say I sent it in, he told the judges.

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New Black justice coming to the court regardless

Whatever the outcome of the Supreme Court race, District 2 will be sending a second Black justice to the Supreme Court.

Chambers, Hunter and Guidry are all African American Democrats.



Black residents, who make up a third of Louisianas population, have long sought more representation on the Louisiana Supreme Court. It took almost three decades for a governor and state lawmakers to approve a new high court election map that includes two majority-Black districts among the seven seats.



Prior to the new maps approval in May, the court only included one majority-Black district in the New Orleans area. District 2 presents a brand new chance for Black residents in Baton Rouge and Monroe to elect a justice of their choice.

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, a powerful business group that has taken an interest in reshaping Louisianas courts, has endorsed Guidry. Trial attorneys are backing Chambers.
Gold coins buried in a small pot and dated to the fifth century B.C. were discovered in modern-day Turkey.

Archaeologists believe that the coinsbased on their location underneath a Helensitic housewere meant to pay off mercenaries.

Fighting between the Persian and Athenian armies in the ancient Greek city of Notion could explain the existence of these coins and the fact that they were still buried.

Mercenary armies werent cheap in the Greek city of Notion during the fifth century B.C.especially with the Persian and Athenian fighters waging a front-line battle in the area. Getting a little extra muscle in the conflict likely required having a bit of spare cash on hand, and archaeologists recently uncovered some of that loot in the form of a hoard of gold coins, which they found buried in a small pot in western Turkey.

According to researchers led by the University of Michigan, the gold coinswhich were originally discovered in 2023, but only recently okayed for publication by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourismdepict a kneeling archer. The archer was a key signature of the Persian daric, issued by the Persian Empire and potentially minted during the fifth century B.C. about 60 miles northeast of Notion in the ancient city of Sardis.

The fact that this literal pot of gold was even found shows that an unlikely scenario befell the owner.

The discovery of such a valuable find in a controlled archaeological excavation is very rare, said Christopher Ratte, professor of ancient Mediterranean art and archaeology and director of the Notion Archaeological Survey, the project that discovered the coins, in a statement. No one ever buries a hoard of coins, especially precious metal coins, without intending to retrieve it. So only the gravest misfortune can explain the preservation of such a treasure.

That grave misfortune could have come in the form of the very thing that experts believe the coins were intended for: war.

According to the Greek historian Xenophon, a single daric was equivalent to a soldiers pay for one month. Finding a hoard of the coins indicates the possibility that it may have been part of the payment to mercenary troops around Notion.



While Ratte admitted that the evidence for the mercenary theory is circumstantial, he believes the timing adds up. Notionalong with other Greek cities on the west coast of present-day Turkeybecame part of the Persian Empire in the mid-sixth century B.C. Then, come the early fifth century B.C., it came under Greek control. That didnt last too long, however, as the early fourth century B.C. saw it return to Persian command until the conquest of Alexander the Great in 334 B.C.

All this back-and-forth rule made Notion the front lines of conflict, with Greek historians chronicling the use of barbarian mercenaries during Athenian vs. Persian skirmishes. It is battles like these that could have warranted an army collecting enough daric to pay for additional assistance, but any sort of defeat could have meant that the owners of the coins werent able to retrieve them, leaving... say... a pot of coins to be found centuries later.

Of course, the mercenary idea isnt the only theory in play. As Notion was an important military harbor, the coins could have been part of payment to help build out the waterfront. If a tragedy befell the owner of the hoard, the coins would have simply remained secretly buried.

The history of the daric started in the sixth century and lasted until Alexander the Greats control began around 330 B.C. The design of the coins remained relatively similar, with only minor stylistic differences in play. Using the new coinsand the independent dating of the coins, thanks to additional artifacts found nearbyto help highlight those style shifts should help set up a distinct timeline for the daric.

This hoard, Ratte said, will provide a firm date that can serve as an anchor to help fix the chronology of the [entire sequence of coins].

If it can be established accurately by other means, to allow us to fine-tune the chronology of the Achaemenid gold coinage, said Andrew Meadows, former curator of coins at the British Museum and the American Numismatic Society and now at Oxford University, in a statement. This is a spectacular find [] of the highest importance.

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DANDRIDGE, Tenn. (WATE)  An area of Dandridge that was briefly evacuated Tuesday afternoon for a major gas leak has reopened.

The Dandridge Police Department had asked people to avoid the area of Patriot Drive near Ruby Tuesday around 5:20 p.m. due to a major gas leak.

Mail service resumes for disabled veteran in Maryville after postal service held back delivery

Police released an update roughly 20 minutes later that the leak has been stopped and the area is back open. However, the Ruby Tuesday will be closed for an unknown amount of time.

No other details were immediately available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A man accused of raping a child is in the Butler County Jail.

According to Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones, Kyle Plummer, 32, of Liberty Township, is incarcerated on two counts of rape. Sheriff Jones said the sheriffs office was contacted by the Tennessee Department of Children Services regarding a child who could have been sexually assaulted by Plummer.

Record-breaking rainfall hits Dayton

When Plummer was located by authorities, he allegedly admitted to sexually abusing a juvenile.

Butler County detectives located Plummer where he admitted to sexually abusing a juvenile, less than 13 years of age, on different occasions over the past several years, the release said.

At this time, the sheriffs office believes more individuals may have been impacted. If you or someone you know was impacted by Plummer, you are asked to call Detective Steele at 1-513-759-7347.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
You aren't cursed (probably). Spiders really are more active in L.A. right now

Move over, dogs. Were entering the spider days of summer.

When it warms up, spiders come out of their hidey-holes. Not to tan, but to catch their bread and butter: bugs.

The arachnid awakening is part of a cascade of weather-dependent events, explained Lisa Gonzalez, program manager of invertebrates for L.A. Countys Natural History Museum, who oversees the museums Spider Pavilion among other bug-centric attractions.

When the sun shines  particularly after a good amount of rain  plants pop off, and in turn insects do too. Everything that feeds on insects benefits, including spiders.

"So if you see an increase in insect activity, which would coincide with warmer temperatures and more plant growth, then you're going to see more spiders thriving and being present," Gonzalez said.

Southern California saw an extreme example of this phenomenon last year after torrential downpours, including a highly unusual tropical summer storm. Unfortunately for Angelenos, mosquitoes were among the insects that took off in the aftermath.

Read more: Fecal fears pile up as an L.A. hiking mecca reopens  without half its bathrooms

The spiders emergence in the warmer months follows a period of hunkering down, which can make it feel dramatic. Suddenly, webs seem to line every window frame and hover in midair  threatening you with a mouthful of silk.

Arachnids are low-key in the winter because there arent many juicy flies and butterflies flapping about.

Theres no sense making a web  if theres nothing to eat, said Rick Vetter, a retired research associate in UC Riversides entomology department. You dont go fishing where theres no fish. (A Google image search for Vetter brings up a photo of a hefty tarantula hanging out on his face, so you can trust his expertise in arachnid matters.)

Silk, what the spiders make to build their webs, is energetically important, Vetter added, so spiders wont go wasting it during cold months when prey is scarce.

Theyre also cold-blooded animals. When its chilly, they chill out to conserve energy  going into a type of insect hibernation called overwintering, Gonzalez said.

"Spiders in particular can go a really long time without eating if they're not expending any energy," she said, "so you might not see them."

Seeing more eight-legged friends isn't necessarily a sign of a population boom, experts note. As spiders mature and grow, it can be easier to spot them.

Gonzalez said spiders typically emerge from eggs in late winter or early spring, depending on the temperature, and reach adulthood in late summer and into fall. Sightings of orb-weaver spiders  known for their large, circular webs  start ticking up this month.

A yellow garden spider, a type of orb weaver, in its web in the Arroyo Seco. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

Spider populations dont just fluctuate in size, but in type.

In the L.A. Basin, theres a good chance of peeping a venomous brown widow, the most commonly observed spider in the area on community science app iNaturalist.

Black widows, once L.A.s ruling widow, have been pushed out of the urban core by the brown widow over the last 15 years or so, according to Gonzalez. Native black widows are still doing well on the "periphery," she said, in desert areas theyre adapted to.

Gonzalez, a bug-lover since childhood, remembers seeing black widows all over her backyard while growing up in Whittier. Now they're absent from their typical haunts: a local park, yard, parking lot. "I have to really, really look for them," she said, "but the brown widows are everywhere."

Side by side, Gonzalez said the two widows are fairly easy to tell apart  at least when it comes to adult females. As you might guess, black widows are black and brown widows are brown. Both have hourglass markings, but the black widows is bright red, while the brown widows is orange. Brown widows also sport stripes on their legs.

Read more: Mosquito season is upon us. So why are Southern California officials releasing more of them?

Perhaps their most striking difference is their egg cases, or the silk bag female spiders wrap their eggs in. The brown widows case is spiky, "like a cartoon drawing of an asteroid," Gonzalez said, while the black widow's case is smooth and round.

Though some consider brown widows invasive  believed to originally hail from Africa  they have an upside: Their bite carries less of a punch than a black widow.

A black widow bite is "medically important," Vetter said, and can cause swelling where the fangs clamped down, severe stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, tremors and sweating. Brown widow chomps hurt when they happen, leaving a burning sensation, but lack the "extreme widow envenomation symptoms," he said.

"So most people in the Los Angeles area  are probably at less risk now from a dangerous widow bite," Vetter said.

Another reason to exhale: Black widows typically arent found inside homes. Its much more common to find a false black widow indoors, which are from a different genus and are less toxic than black widows, Vetter said.

Gonzalez stressed that spiders rarely bite  and are actually great free pest control. Contrary to the perception some hold that widows are trying to attack us, she said, theyre quite shy.

Just a shy spider, doing shy spider things. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

And she maintains that spiders often get unfairly blamed for skin ailments caused by bacterial infections and blood-feasting insects.

"Their venom is very precious to them," she said, explaining that they need it to eat their food.

"But if you are the size of a grape, and what's next to you is, you know, a Godzilla, you're most likely going to lose that battle, right? So they're not quick to bite," she said.

Those who want to learn more about widows  and safely observe live ones  can visit the Natural History Museums Nature Lab, which features a permanent exhibit that lays out the differences between the black and brown species.

The museums seasonal Spider Pavilion will run Sept. 15 to Nov. 24, with a member preview Sept. 13 and 14.

Read more: An infestation of 'aggressive' red fire ants hits Santa Barbara County

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Forum (BRF) in Beijing

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Former Argentine President Alberto Fernandez on Tuesday denied accusations that he was violent toward his ex-partner and former first lady Fabiola Yanez.

Yanez, who currently lives in Spain with their son, had accused Fernandez before an Argentine judge of gender violence, as well as psychological harm and phone harassment, local media reported.

In a post on X, Fernandez said he had learned of the accusation through media reports and that he planned to provide courts with evidence to support his innocence.

"I will just say that it is false and what she is accusing me of never happened," Fernandez said. "I will provide evidence and testimonies before the courts to show what really happened."

Fernandez added that he would refrain from making media statements.

Following the accusation, an Argentine court ruled that Fernandez was banned from leaving the country and from approaching Yanez, local media said.

(Reporting by Walter Bianchi; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Kylie Madry)
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado talks to the media next to opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, following the presidential election results in Caracas. Jeampier Arguinzones/dpa

Argentina has recognized opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez as the winner of the hotly contested presidential election in Venezuela, in which the incumbent was officially re-elected for another term amid fraud allegations.

"The Venezuelan people have overwhelmingly voiced their support for him, and the will of the people must be respected," Argentina's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

Additionally, the government of ultra-liberal President Javier Milei condemned the investigations into Gonzalez and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, as well as the arbitrary arrests of government opponents.

Venezuela's electoral authority officially declared the authoritarian President Nicolas Maduro, who has been in office since 2013, as the winner after the election on July 28. However, it has not yet published the detailed results of each voting district.

The opposition accuses the government of election fraud and claims victory for its candidate, Gonzalez.

The United States and a number of Latin American countries have already recognized the former diplomat as the election winner.

The European Union, the Organization of American States (OAS) and a number of countries in the region have expressed significant doubts about the official election result and demanded the publication of the detailed result lists.

"I have no doubt that Maduro's regime attempted to commit fraud," said the left-wing Chilean President Gabriel Boric.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil wrote in response on X: "Boric has aligned himself with Milei and the US State Department. He has let the mask fall."
Pita Limjaroenrat (C), former leader of Thailand's Move Forward Party, arrives at the headquarters of the party in Bangkok, Thailand, Aug. 7, 2024. Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday dissolved the main opposition Move Forward Party, ruling its efforts to amend a law against defaming the kingdom's royal family violated the constitution. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)

BANGKOK, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday dissolved the main opposition Move Forward Party, ruling its efforts to amend a law against defaming the kingdom's royal family violated the constitution.

The judges voted unanimously to order the dissolution of the Move Forward Party and impose a ban on 11 members of the party's executive board from political activity for 10 years.

The party's campaign to amend the royal insult law was considered an attempt to undermine the nation's constitutional monarchy, the court said.

Six members of the parliament who previously served as the disbanded party's executive board members have now lost their MP status, including former party leaders Pita Limjaroenrat and Chaithawat Tulathon, as well as Deputy House Speaker Padipat Suntiphada, according to the court ruling.

Pita said after the ruling that the group will continue its political agenda despite his absence, as details of a new party will be introduced on Friday.

"I will make sure that I pass the baton on to the next generation of leaders," he told a press briefing.

The dissolution came after the country's Election Commission petitioned the Constitutional Court to disband the Move Forward Party following a ruling by the same court in January that ordered the party to cease any efforts aiming to abolish or amend the royal insult law.

The lese-majeste law, or Section 112 of the Criminal Code, stipulates that whoever defames, insults or threatens the king, the queen, the heir-apparent or the regent shall be punished with imprisonment of three to 15 years.

The Move Forward Party emerged as the largest party in the lower house of the National Assembly in Thailand's general election last year, but its prime minister candidate fell short of securing the majority support of parliamentarians. 

Pita Limjaroenrat (C), former leader of Thailand's Move Forward Party, attends a press conference at the headquarters of the party in Bangkok, Thailand, Aug. 7, 2024. Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday dissolved the main opposition Move Forward Party, ruling its efforts to amend a law against defaming the kingdom's royal family violated the constitution. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)
Members of the grand jury in Arizona that indicted 18 allies of Donald Trump earlier this year for their alleged roles in attempting to overturn the 2020 election had also expressed interest in charging the former president, according to a new court filing.

The interest was strong enough that it prompted the states lead prosecutor to request that the grand jury not indict the former president and give a PowerPoint presentation to explain his reasoning.

Ultimately, the grand jury did not hand up an indictment against Trump, who had already been charged at the federal level for his efforts to upend Joe Bidens legitimate 2020 election victory by special counsel Jack Smith and in Georgia by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

But the court documents provide new details about secret grand jury proceedings that led to charges against 18 others, including Trumps former attorney Rudy Giuliani and his former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, as well as insight into the decision to describe Trump in charging documents as Unindicted co-conspirator 1. (Giuliani and Meadows have pleaded not guilty.)

Prosecutors cited two primary reasons for why the grand jury should not charge Trump: a lack of evidence and a US Justice Department policy they believe would hamper charges against a former president.

The policy cited by prosecutors deals with DOJ guidelines limiting how the federal government can prosecute individuals already charged with similar crimes at the state level.

The state told grand jurors that indicting Trump would be a big deal and that they werent sure if they had all the evidence to prosecute it at this moment, noting such a feat could take a year or two, the court filing shows.

I think you should weigh this policy heavily. And that would be  that 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, the prosecutor added, referring to Trump.

But that  that is  that is my analysis. Thats why you do not see that, the state prosecutor told the grand jury. And I know that may be disappointing to some of you. I understand. But its  you  Ive heard you say today, [w]e worked up the other way because of this policy, and thats where were at.

The grand jury conversation excerpts were included as part of the states response to a motion by multiple defendants arguing selective prosecution and claiming anti-SLAPP violations.

While Trump has not been charged in the Arizona election subversion case, the investigation remains ongoing and prosecutors have not closed the door on potentially indicting more people, including the former president, should evidence emerge to support making that decision, sources tell CNN.

Georgia remains the only state where prosecutors took the step of charging Trump alongside allies who aided his push to remain in the White House but the sprawling election subversion case there remains paused until an appeals court decides whether Willis should be disqualified.

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An Arizona Republican who falsely claimed to be a legitimate presidential elector for former President Donald Trump  part of a sweeping effort by Trump and his allies to subvert the 2020 election  has pleaded guilty for her role in the scheme.

Lorraine Pellegrino, one of 11 Arizona Republicans who falsely posed as Trumps electors that year, accepted a guilty plea to a single charge for filing a false instrument  the fraudulent Electoral College certificate. The state charge was one of several she faced for allegedly joining in a conspiracy to corrupt Arizonas election results.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes charged the 11 fake electors, as well as several top Trump allies, in a broad indictment in April. Trump himself was not charged in the Arizona case, but he was identified by a state grand jury as an unindicted coconspirator. Trump was also charged federally and in Georgia with felonies arising from his fake elector scheme and other efforts to overturn President Joe Bidens victory.

Pellegrinos plea deal is the second victory in the Arizona case in as many days for Mayes, a Democrat. Another one of the 18 defendants, former Trump campaign attorney Jenna Ellis, began cooperating with prosecutors this week in exchange for a deal to dismiss the charges she faced. Ellis similarly cooperated with prosecutors last year in the Georgia case.

Pellegrino is the first participant in the elector scheme to accept criminal responsibility for signing the false documents, though dozens have been charged in a handful of states. Filings on the Arizona docket indicate that the other charges she faced, including conspiracy and forgery, were dismissed in light of the deal. Other filings revealed the terms of her deal, which includes three years of probation and no jail time.

Loraine Pellegrinos decision to accept a plea to a lesser charge reflects her desire to move forward and put this matter behind her, said Pellegrinos attorney Joshua Kolsrud. She has taken full responsibility for her actions, demonstrating her commitment to upholding the law and contributing positively to the community. The sentence of unsupervised probation with community service acknowledges her remorse and willingness to make amends.

After his defeat at the polls in 2020, Trumps lawyers hatched a plan to convene their own sets of presidential electors in some states where Biden was the certified victor. Initially, the attorneys said the so-called contingent electors were meant as placeholders in case Trump prevailed in any of his lawsuits to overturn the election results.

Trump allies, like Ellis and Rudy Giuliani, also began leaning on Republican state legislatures to certify the Trump electors in order to stoke further proceedings and legal battles. As those efforts faltered, Trump eventually eyed an even more desperate plan: Use the existence of the false slates of electors to foment a controversy on Jan. 6, 2021, the day Congress and then-Vice President Mike Pence were charged with certifying the election results.

Pence refused to accede to the plan, drawing Trumps fury and ultimately the wrath of a pro-Trump mob that stormed the Capitol and derailed the electoral vote count for hours that day, threatening the transfer of power.
A Republican activist who signed a document falsely claiming former President Trump won the 2020 presidential election in Arizona has pleaded guilty, marking the first conviction in the states case against so-called fake electors.

Loraine Pellegrino, former president of the group Ahwatukee Republican Women, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of filing a false document, according to court filings.

Richie Taylor, a spokesperson for the Arizona attorney generals office, confirmed Pellegrinos guilty plea but declined to comment further.

Court records show Pellegrinos plea change was entered Tuesday, and she was sentenced to unsupervised probation. The details of her agreement have not yet been posted by the court. She previously faced nine felony counts.

Joshua Kolsrud, Pellegrinos lawyer, said in a statement that Pellegrino has accepted responsibility for her actions.

Loraine Pellegrinos decision to accept a plea to a lesser charge reflects her desire to move forward and put this matter behind her, Kolsrud said. She has taken full responsibility for her actions, demonstrating her commitment to upholding the law and contributing positively to the community.

Kolsrud added that Pellegrinos sentence, with community service, acknowledges her remorse and willingness to make amends.

Pellegrino was charged alongside 17 others, including lawyers and aides to Trump  such as ex-White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and Rudy Giuliani  and 10 additional pro-Trump electors who falsely claimed Trump won the state. President Biden won Arizona by 10,457 votes.

The alternate electors scheme relied on former Vice President Mike Pence to certify slates of Trump-supporting electors in battleground states instead of the true Electoral College votes cast for Biden. Pence declined to do so on Jan. 6, 2021, the day of the election certification, after which a mob of Trumps supporters stormed the Capitol.

On Monday, former Trump lawyer Jenna Elliss charges were dismissed after she agreed to cooperate with state prosecutors. She faced nine felony counts including fraud, forgery and conspiracy.

As part of the deal, Ellis agreed to testify completely and truthfully at any time and any place, including at a criminal trial. She also promised not to protect any person or entity through false information or omissions.

The case against the remaining defendants is set to go to trial in October.

Prosecutors in Michigan, Wisconsin and Nevada have also filed criminal charges related to the fake electors scheme, though the Nevada case was dismissed in June. State prosecutors have appealed that decision.

Updated at 11:20 a.m. EDT

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansas is going after pharmacy benefit managers that the insurance department claims are violating state laws.

A release from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders office on Tuesday said she was joining Insurance Department Commissioner Alan McClain in imposing penalties and hearings against four PBMs in the state.

Attorney General Tim Griffin sues pharmacy benefit managers for alleged role in Arkansas opioid epidemic

PBMs are companies that negotiate drug prices and administer prescription drug provisions for health insurance plans, large employers and Medicaid recipients, acting as middlemen between pharmacies and patients.

The release said the state is focusing on four major PBMs: Caremark, Magellan, Express Scripts, and MedImpact. The four are alleged to have violated a June 28 bulletin from the insurance department advising PBMs to stop paying pharmacies below the national average drug acquisition cost (NADAC), with a $5,000 fine for each violation.

Pharmacy groups seek PBM reforms

Officials said Caremark is alleged to have committed approximately 217 violations of payment below the NADAC, with Magellan at 50 alleged violations, Express Scripts at 19 alleged violations and MedImpact with a single violation. They added that the $1.47 million in possible fines total makes this the largest pharmaceutical enforcement action in Arkansas history.

The Department is committed to tackling PBM abuses, McClain said. Its time for them to make fair and reasonable payments to our pharmacies, as required by the law, and we will enforce all elements of payment and PBM licensure statutes that violate state law, no matter the amount.

Arkansas veterans, lawmakers say PBMs slowing access to pharmacies, adding extra steps to get prescriptions

KARK 4 News reached out to the named PBMs for a response but did not receive one when this story was published. If a response is received, this story will be updated.

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Arkansas linemen arrive in Florida and South Carolina to restore power after Debby

Arkansas linemen arrive in Florida and South Carolina to restore power after Debby

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansan linemen are dispersing across the states impacted by Debby to help with recovery efforts and fix the more than 100,000 outages caused by the storm.

Entergy Arkansas sent roughly 110 baseload contractors to South Carolina, and the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas sent 76 linemen to Florida.

Arkansas American Red Cross volunteers help with Debby recovery efforts

Many of them traveled before the storms came in and now they are clearing trees and reconnecting the grid as much as they can.

Kenneth Holland is a line foreman for the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas. When asked how long his team will be there, he said as long as it takes.

If an event like this were to happen in our area, they wouldnt hesitate to come help us, so thats what we do, and thats part of what we live for, Holland said. We are a different breed of animal.

The Latest: Tropical Storm Debby churns off the US Southeast

KARK 4 News also spoke with Arkansan American Red Cross volunteers in Georgia helping feed people and distribute supplies needed as the floodwaters recede.

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Arrest Made in Killing of Detroit Neurosurgeon Who Was Shot, Then Dragged Naked to Attic Crawlspace

Beloved Detroit neurosurgeon Dr. Devon Hoover was found dead on April 23, 2023 in the stately home he loved so much

Authorities in Michigan have arrested a suspect in the murder of a beloved neurosurgeon who was found dead in his historic Detroit home last April.

On Wednesday, Aug. 7, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy announced at a press conference that Desmond Burks has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder, possession of a firearm by a felon, larceny of over $20,000 and other related criminal offenses. It's unclear if he has entered a plea or retained an attorney to speak on his behalf.

The charges are related to the murder of Dr. Devon Hoover, 53, whose body was found in the attic crawlspace of his $1.2 million home on April 23, 2023. Hoover was shot twice in the head and was then dragged facedown to the attic, according to an autopsy report previously obtained by the Detroit Free Press and 7 Action News. He was found only wearing socks and wrapped in a blood-soaked carpet, Worthy said.

Related: Person of Interest Arrested After Neurosurgeon Is Found Shot to Death, Wrapped in Sheet in Attic

Officers found his body after his family asked police to perform a welfare check when he failed to show up to see his dying mother in Indiana, according to Worthy. An autopsy completed by the Wayne County Medical Examiner's office determined that Hoover's death was caused by the gunshot wounds and ruled his death a homicide.

According to Worthy, an analysis of Hoover's cell phone showed about 4,000 text messages with a number attributed to Burks, who also lived in Detroit. The messages showed that the two were in an intimate relationship with one another and on occasion, Burks would charge Hoover for sexual services," Worthy said.

Eric Seals / USA TODAY NETWORK Dr. Devon Hoover's home.

Detroit Police Chief James White previously said police believed Hoover knew his assailant but did not provide additional details about the nature of their relationship.

On the day of Hoover's murder, Hoover's cell phone traveled from his address to the area of Desmonds home, Worthy claimed. The cell phone appears to return to Hoover's home for a short period of time and then travels back to the area of Desmonds home, before pinging at Fairlane Mall in Dearborn, Mich., she added. Worthy claimed Hoover's phone never returns back to his home.

In addition to his cell phone, Hoover's wallet, money, credit cards, and two designer watches worth thousands of dollars were missing from his home, according to Worthy. In the days following Hoover's murder, Worthy said that there were multiple fraudulent financial transactions from his bank accounts.

During separate searches of properties connected to Burks, authorities recovered Hoover's two watches, one of which he bought the day before he was killed, Worthy said.



Related: Doctor Found Fatally Shot in Attic Concerned About Living Alone in Detroit Mansion: Be Careful, Said Neighbor

Worthy also said that Hoover's white Range Rover, which was found with blood inside and blocking his driveway the day before his body was discovered, was allegedly linked to Burks. According to Worthy, a man believed to be Burks -- who walked with a limp --- was seen on surveillance footage parking Hoover's car and carrying a backpack on the day Hoover was killed. Burks' fingerprint was also allegedly found inside the car, she added.

According to Worthy, Burks is currently being held in the Wayne County Jail on $1 million bond and is expected to be arraigned on Thursday, Aug. 8.

Burks is also awaiting a competency hearing in a separate murder case, Worthy said. Burks, then 33, was charged with second-degree murder in connection with a deadly road-rage incident in May.

Burks is accused of punching Reda Saleh, 67, and leaving him in the street after Saleh allegedly bumped the back of Burks' vehicle, according to a statement from the prosecutor's office. It's unclear if he has entered a plea in this case.



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ST. LOUIS  A St. Louis Circuit Court judge has filed an arrest warrant for a man accused of fatally shooting a gas station/convenience store clerk after being caught shoplifting.

According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Departments probable cause statement, the shooting occurred July 29 at the Phillips 66 located at the corner of South Grand Boulevard and Delor Street in the Dutchtown neighborhood.

Police said John D. Phillips, 44, and a woman entered the store and walked the aisles, occasionally pocketing certain items.

The clerk confronted Phillips and told him to return the items and leave the store. The two men began arguing.

Rapper Nelly arrested in Maryland Heights Wednesday morning

As Phillips threatened to shoot the clerk as he was leaving the store. The clerk followed Phillips to the door to make sure he and the woman left the business.

Police said the clerk turned around after Phillips left. However, Phillips returned, opened the door, and shot the clerk.

The clerk, who has not been identified, died 30 minutes after the shooting.

Phillips has a prior felony conviction for distribution of a controlled substance from 2000.

The St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office charged Phillips with first-degree murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Upon arrest, Phillips will be jailed without bond.

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The federal government has backed up California state regulators in ordering the company that bottles Arrowhead water to stop drawing from the San Bernardino Mountains.

Though BlueTriton Brands draws from springs in the mountains that have been used for bottled water since 1906, environmental activists have claimed the removal of that water is harming wildlife, particularly Strawberry Creek.

About a year ago, Californias Water Resources Control Board ordered BlueTriton to stop using the water, which flows through public lands like the San Bernardino National Forest.

On Wednesday, the Los Angeles Times reported that the U.S. Forest Service has denied BlueTritons permit to extract water from San Bernardino Mountains springs.

While environmental activists are cheering, BlueTriton released a statement to the Times decrying the decision and claiming its unsupported by facts.

BlueTriton Brands and its predecessors have continuously operated under a series of special use permits for nearly a century,' the company told the Times in an email.

In a statement to KTLA Thursday morning, a spokesperson for BlueTriton Brands said that responsible and proactive water stewardship is central to everything we do.

The findings and robust data set developed through these multi-year hydrological and ecological studies, some of which are ongoing, show no material difference between environmental and habitat conditions in the Strawberry Canyon watershed where we operate and the adjacent canyons where we do not operate.

These studies prove that our careful stewardship of the water and land for over 100 years has not negatively affected the Strawberry Canyon environment, the spokesperson said. Credible evidence to the contrary has never been presented.

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Michel Hazanavicius, the Oscar-winning director of The Artist whose animated film The Most Precious of Cargoes competed at this years Cannes and was subject to some backlash due to its depiction of Auschwitz victims, has penned an op-ed denouncing rising antisemitism in France.

Hazanavicius, who is the Jewish son of Holocaust survivors from Eastern Europe, rhetorically asked in French newspaper Le Monde, Why do I have the impression that more and more people have an issue have a simple issue with the fact of addressing the genocide against Jews?

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Why do I have the impression that as a member of a minority like any other, which has had its share of tragedies, Ive become a member of the dominant caste, the figurehead of oppression, imperialism and injustice? As if being Jewish had become something really murky, vaguely suspect, possibly detestable. How could I have become so evil in such a short time? asked Haznavicius.

The Oscar-winning filmmaker, who shed light on the war on the 1999 war in Chechnya in his film The Search, said he also felt that more and more people were less and less concerned about antisemitism amid the current war in Gaza.

And why, when Netanyahu is put on trial, do I hear too often the trial of Israel, or even the trial of the Jews, instead of simply putting the far right on trial, however Israeli it may be? Hazanavicius continued, adding that he also has the feeling that Jews are the coolest enemies to hate () much cooler than the Russians or the Chinese, for example.

The helmer also suggested he shouldnt be required to give his opinion about the war in Gaza and Israel-Palestine conflict every time he gives an interview, just because hes hes Jewish.

He also suggested that in a normal world, the world would have anticipated a wave of empathy rather than violence against Jews in the wake of the Hamas attack of Oct. 7. Why werent these moments of stupor and sorrow wasnt shared by all? Do we have to hear Yes, but  every time one or 1200 Jews are massacred?

In an interview with Variety on the eve of the Cannes Film Festival this year, Hazananvicius said his grandparents escaped being deported to Auschwitz, but not members of their family and friends. He said he wanted his movie to be anything but preachy, as he wanted it celebrate those who overcame prejudice and saved lives. But he was slammed by some critics for the only scene that depicted the horror of the death camps.

Scored by Oscar-winning composer Alexandre Desplat, the drama intertwines the fate of a Jewish family and their newborn twins, deported to Auschwitz, with that of a poor and childless woodcutter couple living deep in a Polish forest. On the train to the death camp, the young father wraps one of his twins in a shawl and throws her off the train into the snow. The lonely woodcutter woman, watching the trains go by in the hope that theyll leave some resources behind, stumbles across the cargo and discovers the little girl. She decides to take her home. Her husband, who calls Jews the heartless, is initially reluctant to the prospect but warms up to the little girl and eventually sacrifices everything to save her.

Hazanavicius said he was hesistant at first to tackle the project because it dealt with the Holocaust which seemed so daunting to (him), but was ultimately drawn to the story which he said is immensely beautiful and timeless.

The Most Precious of Cargoes will be distributed in France on Nov. 20 by Studiocanal. Its produced by Patrick Sobelman and Robert Guediguian at Frances Ex Nihilo, as well as Florence Gastaud and Hazanavicius at Les Compagnons de Cinema. Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne co-produced it via their banner Les Films du Fleuve. The voice cast is led by iconic French actor Jean-Louis Trintignant, alongside Gregory Gadebois and Dominique Blanc.

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ULAN BATOR, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia's National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring reported on Wednesday that water levels in major rivers across Mongolia have surpassed warning thresholds due to continuous heavy rainfall.

As of Wednesday morning, several key rivers, including the Tuul, Kherlen, Selenge, Onon, Orkhon, and Kharaa, have exceeded their warning levels by 20 to 195 centimeters. The agency has indicated that these levels are expected to rise further in the coming days.

Heavy rains have impacted large areas of the country, particularly the central and eastern regions, since late July. In response, the agency has issued a warning for the public, especially nomadic herders living along the flooded rivers and tourists, urging them to take extra precautions to guard against potential disasters. 
Kevin Assemi, a member of one of the regions most prosperous business families, is asking a Fresno County judge to block the potential sale of the familys farming properties, valued at an estimated $2 billion.

Assemi, the son of Farid Assemi, a founding member of the family dynasty, alleges in court documents that he was blindsided by the news his familys substantial farm holdings were being offered for sale.

As a beneficiary of The Farid Assemi 2010 Grantor Trust that has substantial ownership interest in the Family Farm, Assemi argues that he should have been consulted.

Petitioner had to learn about such a sale through local news stories and not from the Trustee who has a duty to keep Petitioner reasonably informed. Petitioner has requested and has yet to receive information that he is unequivocally entitled as a matter of law... according to the lawsuit.

Assemi filed a petition in May asking a judge to delay any effort to sell the properties, listed in the court documents as 52,000 acres from Kern to Fresno County. Of those acres, 28,000 are planted with a crop.

So far, the land has not been sold and a Fresno County Superior Court judge has set a date of Nov. 14 for a hearing on the petition.

The petition seeks several actions, including appointing a neutral trustee to replace the current trustee, Neema Assemi, Kevins cousin. It also asks for due diligence to determine if the sale of the land benefits the trust or exposes it to financial risk.

The Assemi family is one of the leading pistachio growers in the San Joaquin Valley, operating the Touchstone Pistachio Company. The familys business empire was started by three brothers, Farid, Farshid and Darius. Along with farming, the Assemi name is also synonymous with home building and philanthropy.

It has been a litigious several years for the family.

In December, a Fresno County jury awarded $26 million to the Assemi Brothers farming company and nearly $12 million to its rival, Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds, in a protracted breach of contract lawsuit.

The Assemi Brothers sued Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds in 2019 alleging Wonderful retaliated against the Fresno company after it announced plans to build its own pistachio processing plant and leave Wonderfuls cooperative.

About a week later, the brothers were sued again, but this time by Kevin Assemi, the former head of Maricopa Orchards, an Assemi farming company.

Kevin Assemi sued his father and uncles for alleged fraud, breach of contract, and wrongful termination.

He is seeking general, special and punitive financial damages to be proven at trial.

Kevin Assemi has since withdrawn the lawsuit.
Atlanta man pleads guilty to raping woman he met online, attempting to assault another in same week

A now 22-year-old Atlanta man has been sentenced to decades in prison after pleading guilty to assaulting several women in October 2020.

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Demetrious Roam, then-18, pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated assault, aggravated assault strangulation, aggravated assault with intent to rape, armed robbery, kidnapping, aggravated sodomy, and rape.

After entering a non-negotiated guilty plea, Roam was sentenced by DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Asha F. Jackson to 50 years to serve plus life on probation.

The conviction stemmed from the assault of two women within one week in October 2020.

DeKalb police said on October 17, 2020, officers were called to an apartment complex on Shallowford Road where Roam was staying with a family member. The then-20-year-old victim told police that she met Roam on social media and agreed to meet him at the apartment complex.

According to the DeKalb County District Attorneys Office, as the victim and Roam walked toward the apartment, he grabbed the victim from behind and dragged her into an apartment.

Roam then strangled her and put a knife to her neck. The victim grabbed the knife and cut her fingers. While strangling her, Roam tried to get the victim to undress and forced her into a bathroom. The victim was eventually able to push Roam out of the bathroom. When it sounded like he had left the apartment, the victim ran to a neighbor who had already called the police after hearing screams. The victims purse, credit cards and phone were missing. Officers found blood in the bathroom consistent with the victims statement.

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On October 23, 2020, DKPD was called again to the same complex. The then 22-year-old victim at the time told officers that she planned to meet a man whom she had met online at the apartment complex.

The DAs office said, that while walking toward the apartment to meet her date, a man who the victim did not recognize started walking in the same direction. He made a statement about having to check on his laundry and turned toward the victim. As the victim walked past the laundry room, Roam grabbed her in a chokehold and pushed her toward a closet. She felt a knife at her side, and he told her to undress. Roam then undressed, put a condom on, forced the victim to perform oral sex and raped her. When Roam finished, he let the victim out of the closet and she ran away.

DeKalb police said they found a sleeping bag and a condom wrapper in the closet where the assault happened. The victim told authorities that the suspect had a distinct red tattoo on the front of his neck.

During the investigation, DKPD learned that Roam was a suspect in a 2019 rape cold case at the complex. Both victims identified Roam as the man who attacked them during a lineup.

Roam was arrested on October 24, 2020. He later admitted to having sex with the victim on October 23 but claimed he had offered to pay her. He initially denied knowing about the assault on October 17, but eventually stated, I didnt mean to hurt her, she grabbed the knife. He admitted to taking the victims belongings and led police to the location where he had thrown the purse and credit cards behind the apartment. He claimed to have kept the phone.

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The DAs office said that Roam has been linked to several more assaults, including a rape at the complex in October 2020; an attempted assault at the complex in August 2019; two rapes in Clayton County in October and December 2019; and four rapes in Birmingham, Alabama between September 2019 and August 2020.

Roam may be responsible for similar unreported assaults.

He must register as a sex offender and is banned for life from social media. Under Georgia law, Roam is not eligible for early release on the custodial portion of the sentence.

IN OTHER NEWS:
An Atlanta task force focused on modernizing how the city administers its Housing Opportunities for Persons with Aids program has gotten agreement for its next steps from Mayor Andre Dickens.

The Mayors Office announced their agreement on Monday, saying that the HOPWA Modernization Task Forces recommendations were well received and that he looked forward to moving forward.

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Thank you to all the members of the task force for their work and commitment to ensuring that our HOPWA program continues to operate at the highest levels, Dickens said in a statement. The recommendations provided are well received, and I will work to chart a course forward starting with the allocation of funds already approved by City Council.

As far as what those recommendations were, the Mayors Office said the City Council had approved the Assistance for Persons with AIDS Trust Fund to help organizations that were potentially impacted by a reduction in funding for the hOPWA program after changes to federal funding formulas.

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According to Dickens office, the recommendation to move away from rental assistance to instead help make permanent housing more affordable for construction or purchase was included in the programs new direction.

Several HOPWA service providers have already begun this transition and have seen significant cost savings allowing them to more effectively serve the community, officials said.

At the end of June, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that funding for HOPWA programs had been awarded to 11 grant awardees, including $2.5 million to Georgias Positive Impact Health Centers. AID Atlanta also received $2.5 million.

The change to the funding formula included a $6 million increase from the 2024 presidential budget, with an overall 10% of the budget set aside for competitive grants, and the remaining 90% for use by state and metropolitan area HOPWA programs.

Going forward, following the approval by the Atlanta City Council, the City is responsible for administering the HOPWA program for Atlanta as well an additional 29-county region.

AID Atlanta is thrilled to receive the HINT grant from HUD. We are appreciative of the leadership of the Mayor and his efforts to ensure that the housing needs of people living with HIV in this community are being served to the greatest extent possible, Nicole Roebuck said. We will continue to partner with the Mayor and his team and work together on innovative solutions that will promote housing stability amongst our community. I applaud the Mayor for accepting the recommendations of the HOPWA Modernization Task force and for already beginning to implement some of the recommendations. The work of the task force is only the next step of many to ensuring we truly meet the need that exists in our city.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
When Atlanta Public Schools new superintendent was sworn in on Monday, he told the audience that he wants little fanfare in his first 100 days.

There wont be a ton of words, Bryan Johnson told those gathered at APS headquarters. Therell be a ton of work.

Hours later, Johnson learned that there could be lots of both. Johnson appeared at the first of three Atlanta Board of Education hearings, where district officials will discuss finalizing the millage rate for the schools portion of Atlantas property tax for the next fiscal year. Its a mundane process that has some parents concerned and could be the first difficult issue that Johnson navigates in his new role.

APS, like most public school districts, is primarily funded by collecting a portion of local property taxes, which it depends on to pay teacher salaries, for educational and support programs, and many other functions. But while a well-funded public school system is generally considered a valuable asset for homeowners, for many Atlanta homeowners already struggling with higher costs, it could mean paying more to fund the schools next year since property values are on the rise.

Now is just not the time for an increase, said Atlanta resident Wykeshia Howe, who attended Mondays hearing.

APS budget for fiscal year 2024-2025 proposes keeping the current rate flat at 20.5 mills; one mill is equal to $1 in tax per every $1,000 of assessed property value. Its the same rate as APS 2023 fiscal year, APS Chief Financial Officer Lisa Bracken told board members. But because it will be applied to properties that have increased in value, the district is required by law to advertise the stay as a tax rate increase to its constituents, she said.

A home valued at $325,000 by the Fulton County tax assessor and carrying a homestead exemption would see about a $66 increase in taxes this year, Bracken said.

The projected increase in revenue would allow the district to provide resources for students such as the AP African American history course that State Superintendent Richard Woods rejected late last month, only to reverse that decision days later. That course will continue for students at four APS high schools.

Howe told Johnson and other APS officials that a tax increase right now for Atlanta residents would add pressure to families during a time when many are struggling to make ends meet.

I want you guys to think about the grandparents who are raising their grandchildren that are struggling right now to keep a roof over their head, pay taxes and provide food and other things to raise their family, Howe said.

A recent study on the impact of rising tax burdens as the result of higher property values supports her point. The report, compiled by the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, examined property taxes paid in 2023 in the largest cities in all 50 states and found that Atlanta was among the five cities with the steepest increase in residential effective property tax rates in the country.

Effective tax rate measures a propertys tax bill as a percentage of its market value. That means a city can have overall millage rates that are low or stagnant, as in the budget proposal for Atlantas school tax, yet homeowners would still see increases in their tax bills if property values are rising.

The median sale price of homes in metro Atlanta has increased 57% since 2020, according to Georgia Multiple Listing Services. In Atlanta and many other jurisdictions, the millage rate charged by the school district is only one part of a total property tax bill that also includes taxes from the county and municipal government.

Katie Howard, the APS district 1 board member, who sits on the districts budget committee said initiatives like an 11% teacher salary increase and reducing central office staff to redirect funds directly to schools requires a budget like the $1.8 billion plan that the district just passed this June.

Thats why we are taking the action we are taking around the millage rate, Howard said. We appreciate feedback from the public and encourage everyone to look at any homestead exemptions that are available. We are very sensitive to where people are in the city of Atlanta with the increase.

The next two millage hearings will be held on Aug. 12 at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. The meetings are open to the public and will be streamed on the boards Facebook and YouTube page.

The post New Atlanta Schools Superintendents First Big Challenge: Taxes appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta.
Atlanta woman the latest tourist charged with illegally possessing ammunition in Turks and Caicos

An Atlanta woman has become the latest tourist arrested in the Turks and Caicos for allegedly having ammunition in her luggage at the airport.

Tiana Jones was arrested on Thursday, August 1 at Howard Hamilton International Airport.

Turks and Caicos Islands Police told ABC News that Jones was allegedly caught with two rounds of ammunition in her luggage as she was about to leave the islands.

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Jones appeared in a local court on Tuesday and was charged with illegally possessing ammunition.

She was ordered to be held and her attorneys will have to apply for bail for her.

A sufficiency hearing has been scheduled for October 4.

In the Turks and Caicos, its illegal to bring ammunition into the country without getting prior approval from police.

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If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Crisis counselors are available 24/7.

AUSTIN (KXAN)  Lt. Amanda Bennett is coming out of the shadows and sharing her story. Its a story that reveals the daily traumas firefighters are faced with, which for some, has become a crippling reality that is sometimes too much to bear.

These traumas manifest in weird ways. We carry them and dont even realize it, Bennett said. I talked to my brother and seeing the look on his face, it broke my heart. I knew his heart broke for me because he just had no idea.

Amanda Bennett in her early years as a firefighter.

(Courtesy Lt. Amanda Bennett)

Bennett, who had dedicated most of her life to saving lives, tried to take her own.

I attempted suicide two years ago, Bennett explained. I was fortunate my officer was cued in to my struggles. I was supposed to go into work that day and he couldnt reach me, and he made a decision to detour from his drive to work, to check in on me and he found me.

The decision to try to end her life came after spending years in the fire service. To understand her journey, we must revisit an experience she had in the seventh grade, which changed her lifes trajectory.

She was riding on the bus and heard a loud thud and immediately looked into the bus drivers eyes, which were filled with shock.

I saw pure shock in her eyes, Bennett remembers. I looked in the street and saw a woman in the street. The bus backed over her. We watched her die, she died.

Bennett wanted to help the woman, but her bus driver told her and other students to stay on the bus. A short time later, first responders spoke to them all.

Amanda Bennett in her younger years enjoying her time at a Texas fire station. (Courtesy Amanda Bennett)

One of the firefighters got on the bus and just talked to us. They knew that none of us were physically hurt, but they had compassion and empathy. That just really made an impression on me.

At 16, she joined her local fire department and since then, she saw things that would stick with her for life.

I cant drive past (Loop) 360 and (U.S. Highway 183) without thinking of a car wreck where an entire family was killed besides one family member, there are little things you never escape, Bennett said. I have constant reminders throughout my years in the fire service driving down roads thinking, oh, thats where a high school girl died, oh, thats where a kid accidentally shot his brother.

Her goal, like many firefighters, is to show compassion through selfless acts to help and protect the community. That sacrifice has come at a cost  long hours, sleep deprivation and images of unimaginable calls that linger.

We are supposed to be problem solvers and there is shame, a feeling of weakness, if you need help, Bennett said.

She was hospitalized and spent several weeks at the International Association of Firefighters Center of Excellence  a voluntary treatment facility for firefighters.

It was the first place I really felt safe talking about my vulnerabilities to other firefighters, I didnt have to edit myself, Bennett said.

Bennett joined a growing number of firefighters facing mental health challenges across the country.

That day I decided to end my life I felt like there was no other way forward, Bennett said.

More mental health resources for local firefighters

Ive been with Austin for 15 years and weve lost four people to suicide, Bennett said.

As Austin firefighters grapple with a recent suicide in their department, the Austin Firefighters Association (AFA) is calling for specific tools to provide help to the men and women who keep the community safe. AFA said there is no threat to service.

Firefighters are pretty resilient, but they are humans, everyone has a breaking point, and they need some relief, Bob Nicks, AFAs president, said.

AFA President Bob Nicks speaks to KXANs Jennifer Sanders about calls for more mental health tools for Austin firefighters. (KXAN photo/Frank Martinez)

Data from the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA) shows from 2014-2020, more firefighters died by suicide than in the line of duty. FBHA estimates about 60% of reporting from across the U.S. It tracks suicides of firefighters (career, volunteer, wildland and military firefighters) EMS, and dispatchers.

FBHA said Texas has the fourth-highest reported suicides in FBHAs data of the 50 states and believes moral injury plays a larger role than PTS.

With data like this coupled with the day-to-day challenges facing firefighters, Nicks wants to bring in an extra cadet class and is calling for an additional workweek reduction from 53 hours a week down to about 50.6 hours which he says would be about a two to four-year process.

Thats similar to what Portland does currently and others are trying to adopt it because of the positive mental health aspects, Nicks said.

Solutions in Portland, Oregon

In 2022, the Portland Fire Fighters Association reduced its work week to 50.4 hours.

Our main motivation in that contract was to reduce mental health issues, we knew that reducing hours, less time on the job means better health and wellness, explained Isaac McLennan, firefighter and the president of the Portland Fire Fighters Association.

While they are working to get firm data to measure success, McLennan said they saw an instant boost in morale and behavioral health among their firefighters, but reducing the workweek also came with a huge burden to the city and taxpayers.

There was a huge demand to work overtime because they didnt have enough people so much so it was the worst year in overtime, they spent $25 million in overtime, McLennan said.

That is why he said creating a robust pipeline early on is necessary.

If you do sign this you need to hire enough people to make sure you can fill those spots because otherwise, you will be faced with gigantic overtime bills, McLennan said.

Proposed solutions in Austin

City Council members Alison Alter, Mackenzie Kelly and Ryan Alter announced proposed amendments as Austin is expected to finalize its budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The items would address handling overtime in the department and bringing in an additional cadet class to help with a possible future workweek reduction.

AFA President Bob Nicks joins Council Members Alison Alter, Makenzie Kelly and Ryan Alter to ask for more mental health support for firefighters. (KXAN photo/Frank Martinez)

KXAN reached out to all council members for where they stand on the items, we will update this story when we hear back and if the items are adopted.

Immediate answers

Bennett believes a reduced work week would help but knows there is no quick fix. She does believe there are some immediate answers.

Lets be honest with ourselves so we can be honest with the people close to us so they can help us, Bennett said. My goal is to keep the conversation going and set clear paths forward for people who feel like there are not any options.

Response from Austin Fire Department

KXAN reached out to the Austin Fire Department, seeking a response to the calls from the Austin Firefighters Association. Heres the departments statement:

The job of firefighters is a physically and emotionally taxing role that requires repeated exposure to potentially deadly elements and traumatic circumstances.

The Austin Fire Department (AFD) is continually striving to mitigate these inherent risks and relieve pressures associated with the job while maintaining service to our residents. This includes working toward fulfilling the reduced work week outlined in the collective bargaining agreement, pursuing resources to manage workload, ensuring firefighters have access to personal protective equipment and adhering to best practices for cleaning and maintaining it. The department is also facilitating increased access to screenings for conditions more likely to impact firefighters and immediate access to doctors, psychologists, peer support and chaplains who specialize in treatment within the public safety environment.

There is no finish line to these efforts. The environment firefighters work in requires ongoing conversations to continue addressing the ever-changing landscape, but our constant priority has been and will continue to be the safety and well-being of the firefighters who care for our community during their most vulnerable moments.

 Austin Fire 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 KXAN Austin.
Aubreigh Wyatt's Mom Speaks Out About New Mission: 'My Daughter's Voice Will Not Be Silenced'

Aubreigh's Foundation was created to honor Aubreigh Wyatt's legacy, Heather Wyatt says

Aubreigh Wyatt/TikTok Aubreigh Wyatt

Weeks after a court-ordered social media ban against Heather Wyatt was lifted, she has announced the creation of a foundation in honor of her late daughter Aubreigh Wyatt, who was 13 years old when she died by suicide in September 2023 in Ocean Springs, Miss.

Aubreigh's Foundation will "pursue justice and accountability for Aubreigh and share her story to necessitate change through a message that promotes dignity and love for others," Heather tells PEOPLE in a statement.

"I created Aubreighs Foundation to honor my daughters legacy, I have committed to share my daughters journey, the truth, all of it," Heather added. "Once we overcome legal hurdles and obtain justice I am determined, through Aubreighs Foundation, to ensure that Aubreighs message and the sharing of her story be done out of love, compassion and support and in an effort to bring awareness to the community."

Since Aubreigh's death, Heather has frequently posted on social media about her grief journey, primarily using TikTok. She has garnered millions of views and a hashtag in honor of her daughter, #LLAW (Live Like Aubreigh Wyatt), has also began trending worldwide.

However, due to a former court order, Heather was forced to shut down all of her social media accounts after a lawsuit was filed against her by the parents of four teenagers who claimed Heather had implicitly accused their children of bullying Aubreigh before her death, The Washington Post reported.



Related: Everything to Know About Aubreigh Wyatt's Death and Her Mom's Fight to Tell Her Story on TikTok

Although Heather never named the four teenagers publicly, their names and information were shared widely on the internet. In the suit, the parents claimed defamation and slander, saying in that Heather's actions subjected their children to "insulting and revolting messages from around the world," Newsweek reported. The outlet further reported that the parents said in their suit that an investigation by local authorities found Heather's bullying claims to be unsubstantiated.

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On July 16, the parents dropped the lawsuit, according to a filing shared by Vicksburg News and reviewed by PEOPLE. On July 18, the Sun Herald reported that the judge overseeing the case also lifted the social media ban against Heather. (The case was dismissed without prejudice, the filing states, meaning the parents can file it in the future should they choose.)

Heather has since rejoined TikTok and thanked her supporters.

Related: Aubreigh Wyatt's Mom Speaks Out After Social Media Ban Lifted: 'You Guys Fought for My Baby When I Couldn't'

"Aubreigh was a daughter, a sister, a friend, so many things to so many people," Heather said in her most recent statement to PEOPLE. "I will go to the ends of the earth and back every single day to make sure the world hears Aubreighs voice and knows her story. I will not go away, be silenced nor will I stop fighting for Aubreighs voice to be heard! My Daughters voice will not be silenced."

She also added more details about the goal of the foundation, stating in part: "As Aubreighs Mom and the Founder of Aubreighs Foundation I hope to bring awareness, education, support, empathy and compassion to all children and adolescents suffering from the devastating repercussions of bullying. Aubreighs Foundation will share Aubreighs story to provide hope and support for other adolescents and children who are struggling with bullying and to intercept and prevent other families from having to face such devastating, unfortunate loss and irreparable heartbreak. I am fighting for justice and accountability for my daughter and to use her story to change how bullying is approached, handled, and to bring awareness to the emotional, psychological and devastating effects bullying causes in adolescents and children."

She also said she hopes to "educate and provide information on supportive healthy avenues to teach our adolescents and encourage them to believe that their lives have value, to teach them to place value in their lives and to educate and ensure that they can identify bullying for exactly what it is and understand and encourage them to realize their value is so much more than someones opinion of them or insults/words."



Aubreigh Wyatt/TikTok Aubreigh Wyatt

A spokesman for the middle school Aubreigh attended previously told PEOPLE in a statement that they have "numerous anti-bullying measures and curriculum" in place for students and that initiatives to create "healthy relationship building" begin as early as elementary school.

"Our middle and high school students (7th-12th grade) also participate in National Bullying Prevention Month, and have school counselors assigned to each grade level to meet with students and provide them with appropriate resources," spokesman Trey Brennan said.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.

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Read the original article on People.
Austin Community College proposes tax rate change, what it means for your bill

AUSTIN (KXAN)  Austin Community College said at its Board of Trustees meeting on August 5, it is considering a new tax rate of 0.1013 cents per $100 valuation.

If the proposed rate is formally approved at the September meeting, it would not increase the average property tax bill.

ACC said the reasoning behind the new tax rate was that it would help support the adopted 2025 fiscal year budget.

This comes after the ACC Board of Trustees approved a $534 million budget, of which 67% percent of its budget comes from the property tax revenue.

ACC said earlier this summer it also saw an increase in fall enrollment after it started offering free tuition.

According to ACC, the new budget cycle will begin on September 1. You can learn more about Austin Community Colleges budget and tax rate online.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
John Box (right) talks on the phone while waiting for his Delta flight in Terminal 3, July 19, 2024, at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, Ariz. On Monday, Austin-based cybersecurity company CrowdStrike was sued by passengers affected by a massive tech outage that snarled transportation systems around the globe.

Austin-based CrowdStrikes worldwide outage last month now has the company staring down a barrage of escalating legal issues. On Monday, the cybersecurity company was sued by airline passengers whose flights were delayed or canceled.

In a proposed class action lawsuit filed in federal court in Austin, Texas, three travelers accused CrowdStrike of negligence in testing and deploying its software, which they claim caused the outage. The disruption also affected banks, hospitals, and emergency services worldwide.

The plaintiffs state in the suit that travelers were sent into a frenzy and in response were forced to spend hundreds of dollars on lodging, meals and alternative travel. The suit goes on to add that others missed work or suffered health problems from having to sleep on the airport floor.

The lawsuit concludes that CrowdStrike should pay compensatory and punitive damages to all fliers whose flights were disrupted.

CrowdStrike said in a statement: "We believe this case lacks merit and we will vigorously defend the company."

The Statesman previously reported that Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said there is "no choice" but to initiate a lawsuit against CrowdStrike after it caused widespread software outages in July that cost the airline $500 million.

How has CrowdStrike responded to its recent outage?

Beyond public apologies from its CEO, CrowdStrike released a blog post detailing how it will change operations to avoid a similar event. Changes include adjusting its update verification system to better filter faulty code. Additionally, the company said it was no longer going to release mass updates to avoid the possibility of mass outages.

Not long after the crash, CrowdStrike sent Uber Eats gift cards worth $10 to its partners who worked long hours to restore systems for customers. According to TechCrunch, a tech news website, the Uber Eats voucher was accompanied by an email that read: And for that, we send our heartfelt thanks and apologies for the inconvenience, and the email continued, "To express our gratitude, your next cup of coffee or late night snack is on us!

The response to the voucher was a mix of confusion and frustration, and, due to high usage rates, Uber flagged some of the vouchers as fraudulent making them unusable. CrowdStrike is adamant that it sent the voucher as a thank you and not as an apology.

What is CrowdStrike?

CrowdStrike is a major player in the cybersecurity field. The company is known for its unique approach to threat detection and response  which it ingrains in its products. Founded in 2011 in Sunnyvale, Calif., the company is now headquartered in Austin and, in the last decade, has specialized in endpoint security, threat intelligence and cyberattack response services.

CrowdStrike's flagship product, Falcon, uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify and mitigate threats in real time. The system the company has created is versatile in that it is able to provide protection across various devices and networks  which is why last weeks outage was so widespread.

CrowdStrike has a fairly good reputation and, in the past, has been able to uncover high-profile cyberattacks by North Korea. The company is known for its ability to rapidly respond to security breaches, helping organizations safeguard their digital assets against sophisticated cyberthreats.

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: CrowdStrike's legal issues pile up following worldwide outage
VIENTIANE, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Representatives from member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have gathered in Laos to discuss ways to improve strategies for scaling up HIV programs.

Laos' Ministry of Health hosted the meeting in the Lao capital Vientiane on Aug. 5-6 to introduce progress made in HIV response among ASEAN member states, according to a report from the ministry's Center of Information and Education for Health on Wednesday.

The objectives of the meeting were to ensure that global and regional response plans for HIV/AIDS are shared and implemented and ASEAN member states share their good practices and experiences on innovative strategies to tailor HIV services to specific populations.

The meeting facilitated discussions among ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Secretariat, the World Health Organization and other stakeholders for the sharing of updates, good practices and lessons learned on innovative strategies to scale-up HIV services for key populations.

ASEAN nations are committed to working together to explore all possibilities and overcome challenges in HIV/AIDS response to benefit key populations. 
Authorities looking into reported sighting of an alligator on Lake Erie shoreline

The Erie Port Authority has posted gator sighting warnings around the beach area of the foot of East Avenue.

First came the reports of giant goldfish swimming merrily in Lake Erie.

Now there's been an apparent sighting of an alligator along the shore of Lake Erie in Erie, Pennsylvania.

The Erie-Times News is reporting that the reptile was first spotted Sunday. A search for the alligator by wildlife and would-be gator hunters has not turned up anything just yet.

The sighting has prompted officials there to post warning signs for beach and lake visitors.

Tory Gabriel, extension program leader and fisheries educator for Ohio Sea Grant and Stone Laboratory, is pictured with a giant goldfish found in Wards Canal near Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area in Lucas County.

How do an alligator and a goldfish end up in Lake Erie?

Tory Gabriel, extension program leader and fisheries educator for Ohio Sea Grant and Ohio State's Stone Laboratory, said the culprit for these so-called invasive species ending up in Lake Erie and other bodies of fresh water is no mystery.

Owners of freshwater pets like goldfish and even an alligator, apparently, get tired of caring for the fish and reptiles.

But these pet owners don't have the heart, he said, to flush them down the toilet or dispose of them properly, so they do what they feel is the more humane thing and simply set them loose in rivers, streams, ponds and even Lake Erie.

Giant goldfish in Lake Erie: A real fish tail. Giant goldfish swimming in Lake Erie and likely a pond near you

This is a big no-no.

State wildlife officials say anything as harmless as goldfish or as serious as, say, an alligator are not native to Lake Erie and will compete for food and throw off the ecosystem for everything from native fish to plants.

And in the case of something like an alligator, it can pose a real threat to everything from dogs to humans that can be attacked.

But unlike the goldfish that can stand Ohio's cold, wildlife officials say there's no chance an alligator could survive Lake Erie's harsh winter.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Alligator sighting on Lake Erie shoreline, reportedly
Authorities in Wisconsin searching for two suspects after alleged home invasion

ELMWOOD PARK, Wis. (WFRV)  Authorities in southeast Wisconsin are searching for two suspects in connection to an alleged home invasion on Tuesday night.

According to a release, deputies responded to a home invasion/burglary in progress in the 3400 block of North Elmwood Drive in the village of Elmwood Park shortly after 8:30 p.m.

Preliminary report on deadly plane crash outside of EAA released by federal investigators

Upon arrival, the deputies with the Racine County Sheriffs Office determined the lone occupant of the residence had fled after having contact with the two intruders.

Authorities searched the residence and the surrounding area but were unable to find the alleged suspects.

The suspects were described as two white males wearing black ski masks. One suspect was tall and thin, with blue eyes, wearing a black hoodie and dark-colored jeans. No description of the other suspect was provided.

The Racine County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) is actively investigating these crimes. Furthermore, the sheriffs office says it will continue to increase its presence in the Elmwood Park area with additional patrols.

There might be a bad batch of drugs in our county: Sheriffs office in Wisconsin alerts public after 3 Narcan incidents in 24 hours

CIB investigators are asking residents and local businesses to check their door cameras or surveillance systems for any information that may be relevant to this investigation.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Investigator Sharrett at (262) 886-8493.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Democratic strategist David Axelrod said Vice President Harriss new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), delivered some heavy blows to the GOP ticket Tuesday night and did so with a gentle humor that was well received by the audience.

I live in the Midwest, and, you know, they talk about Midwest nice. He delivered some heavy blows, but he did it with that kind of gentle humor that actually lands well, Axelrod said of Walz on a CNN panel Tuesday night, responding to the Democratic tickets debut campaign event together.

At the event, Walz took aim at former President Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio).

I just have to say it. You know it, you feel it: These guys are creepy and, yes, just weird as hell. Thats what you see, Walz said to raucous applause from the rally crowd in Philadelphia, using the viral new framing of the Trump campaign as weird.

The Minnesota governor then knocked his vice presidential rival, saying, Like all 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. Come on! Thats not what middle America is.

Axelrod said Democrats had a great night and noted the very joyful and positive energy in the crowd and on the stage. He noted a change in Trumps confidence, compared to a couple of months ago when the Democratic party began souring publicly on President Biden as the presumptive nominee.

Trump is getting  hes unsettled by this change in the environment. You could see it in his tweets and so on. And there is a kind of grinding quality to the Trump campaign right now that plays very badly against what you saw tonight, Axelrod said, which was very joyful and positive.

There was this feeling of possibility, he added.

Axelrod said well see if Trumps messaging approach is successful, but he suspects Trump might need to find something new.

It could be that a  negative campaign depicting these people as far left and so on, will succeed, Axelrod said. I think theyre going to have to figure out something else, because I think thats yesterdays argument. And I dont know that its going to seize the day today.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NEW YORK  A former New York City mayoral aide, whose home was raided by federal agents last fall, visited Azerbaijan with another Eric Adams official last year, according to public documents and information provided by City Hall.

The Azerbaijani government paid for the two mayoral aides to visit the country on what was billed as an economic development trip, just months before the raid.

State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan covered up to $5,000 of expenses for Mayors Office of International Affairs Commissioner Edward Mermelsteins visit to the country for NYC related travel last year, according to a mandatory financial disclosure released this week by the citys Conflicts of Interest Board.

Joining Mermelstein to the Azerbaijani capital of Baku was Rana Abbasova, then the director of protocol in the Mayors Office of International Affairs, from April 29 to May 2, 2023, a City Hall spokesperson confirmed.

The Adams administration put Abbasova on leave last November after FBI agents raided her home and, in doing so, alerted the public to a probe into Turkish government connections to Adams 2021 mayoral campaign. Abbasovas family is from Azerbaijan, whose government is closely tied with Turkey. The countries share cultural ties as well.

Abbasova served as a Turkish liaison to Adams when he was Brooklyn borough president  an unpaid role. The New York Times reported she is cooperating with federal investigators in the probe, for which Adams has denied any wrongdoing.

The primary purpose of the visit was to foster economic development and share best practices between communities, and the commissioner took place in a series of meetings to achieve those goals, the City Hall spokesperson said.

The comped cost of the trip included $1,650 in airfare for both Mermelstein and Abbasova, City Hall said, and $40 a day in ground transportation. The government paid $540 for Mermelsteins hotel stay.

Abbasova stayed with family, City Hall said.

The visit, which has not been previously reported, was included in Mermelsteins 2023 disclosure form and was obtained Tuesday by a records request.

Adams has long cultivated a relationship with Azerbaijan, POLITICO has reported, and visited the country at least twice, in 2012 and 2016. The Azerbaijani cultural group Brooklyn Baku Friendship Association hosted a fundraiser for his 2021 campaign.

Just weeks after Mermelstein and Abbasova returned from Azerbaijan last year, they met with an Azerbaijani government official  in part to discuss restoring direct flights between New York and the Asian country, the Daily News reported. Additionally, the News reported that Adams political adviser Frank Carone met with a top Azerbaijani government official in the country last September.

Abbasova, Mermelstein and Carone all traveled to Turkey in October 2022 for a conference. Abbasova and Mermelstein's travel was paid for by a Turkish real estate trade group, POLITICO and the Daily News reported.

The trip to Baku stood alone in Mermelsteins disclosure as the only economic development visit in 2023 directly covered by a foreign government.

City Hall didnt immediately respond when asked if Mermelstein took similar trips paid for by the city government that would not have to be reported.

Abbasova has been exempted from filing a financial disclosure this year while she is on leave, the Daily News reported in July.

Mermelsteins financial disclosure reported four other payments for city-related travel in 2023. The World Government Summit Organization spent between $5,000 and $55,000 on a trip to Dubai and the World Knowledge Forum spent a similar range and held a global summit in Seoul last September.

In addition, Mermelstein reported being gifted portions of a trip to Mexico and Colombia, where he joined Adams to purportedly learn about the migrant crisis.

CORRECTION: This story has been updated to reflect that Carone said his trip was not paid for by the real estate trade group.
Azov Brigade soldier Oleksandr Ishchenko died in Russian captivity due to blunt force trauma to his chest, according to a forensic report published by the Azov deputy commander, Sviatoslav Palamar, on Aug. 7.

Palamar called Ishchenko's death "another brutal murder of a Ukrainian POW." The published report showed that the soldier's death was caused by multiple rib fractures and shock.

Ukraine's Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said on July 31 that Kyiv had not been officially informed of the death, but Ishchenko's daughter confirmed the news, saying he passed away nine days ago.

Collage of photos with Oleksandr Ishchenko, two photos in Russia's captivity (above) and two before Russia's captivity (below). (Sviatoslav Palamar/Facebook)

"This is not just another cynical violation of the Geneva Convention on the Treatment of Prisoners of War (POWs) by the Russians. This is a blow to human honor and dignity, to international law, to the principles and values that we defend at the front," Palamar said.

Ishchenko was 55 years old and a native of Mariupol. He joined the Azov Brigade as a driver shortly after the launch of Russia's full-scale invasion. He was captured while fighting in Mariupol in 2022.

Ishchenko was one of the 24 Ukrainians who were prosecuted by Russia in a sham trial last year. He was imprisoned in a detention facility in Rostov-on-Don.

"The killings of Ukrainian POWs should be the number one topic in the world media and on the agenda of international organizations," Palamar said.

"Only publicity, pressure on the Russians, and the bringing of our prisoners home can stop these killings."

Read also: Ombudsman appeals to UN, Red Cross over alleged execution of Ukrainian POW by Russia

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  John Ball Zoo has a serious case of baby fever. Following the births of a snow leopard, lynxes and penguins earlier this year, the Grand Rapids zoo has now welcomed an eastern mountain bongo calf.

The calfs name is Chestnut and she was born July 23, the zoo says. She is the second offspring of the zoos two breeding bongos, Beckson and Carrot. The two also had a calf last year named Sprout.

3 baby penguins thriving at John Ball Zoo

Were incredibly excited to welcome our newest addition at John Ball Zoo, a healthy female bongo calf, Tim Sampson, curator at John Ball Zoo, said in a Wednesday statement. The birth of a critically endangered species is a significant milestone in the conservation of this amazing species. We are happy to report that both mom and baby are doing well.

Eastern mountain bongos are one of the largest antelopes in the world and reside mainly in the forested mountains of Kenya. They are considered critically endangered.

Snow leopard cub born at John Ball Zoo

Chestnut is expected to be on display in her habitat at John Ball Zoo starting next 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 WOODTV.com.
This family photo shows Willow Jade Dellaquila, a day after she was born in October 2023, in La Grange, Ky. Willow Jade died at the age of 13-days-old in November 2023, after contracting a Cronobacter sakazakii infection traced to a can of Similac Total Comfort powdered infant formula. (Family photo via AP)

The parents of a Kentucky baby who died last fall after drinking bacteria-tainted infant formula are the latest to sue Abbott Nutrition, the manufacturer at the heart of a 2022 crisis that left millions of Americans scrambling to feed their children.

Willow Jade Dellaquila, of Carrollton, Kentucky, was 13 days old when she died on Nov. 5, 2023. She was infected with cronobacter sakazakii, a dangerous germ traced to a can of Similac Total Comfort powdered formula used in the babys bottles, records show.

They told me she had a stroke on her right side of the brain, Cheyenne Ping, Willows 25-year-old mother, said in an interview. Its really heartbreaking. No one should have to go through this.

Ping and the babys 26-year-old father, Christian Dellaquila, can move forward with a lawsuit against Abbott, an Illinois judge ruled Wednesday.

The couple had previously sought to join a lawsuit with two other families who say their children suffered devastating brain damage caused by cronobacter linked to a different type of Abbott powdered formula, Similac Neosure. Mira White, a Missouri baby, was sickened with cronobacter in March 2023 at age 6 weeks. Ryker Brown, an Illinois toddler, was infected with the bacteria in July 2021, at age 4 weeks. Both survived.

But the judge on Wednesday asked that the three cases be filed separately, leaving open the question of whether they would be consolidated later.

The original lawsuit in December targeted Abbott, whose Sturgis, Michigan, plant was shuttered for months in 2022 after similar reports of infant illnesses and deaths. U.S. Food and Drug Administration inspectors found what agency chief Dr. Robert Califf called shocking conditions, including cronobacter, which led to recalls and sparked shortages that rocked U.S. formula supplies for more than a year.

Willow consumed formula made at the Sturgis plant and sold at a local Walmart store more than a year after Abbott was placed under court-mandated oversight by the FDA, The Associated Press has learned. The formula Ryker and Mira consumed was made at the company's plant in Casa Grande, Arizona, which was the target of a separate whistleblower complaint about dangerous conditions, according to federal records.

Documents obtained by the AP show that an April 2023 FDA inspection at the Arizona site found lapses in contamination-prevention protocols, multiple detections of cronobacter at the plant and nearly two dozen complaints of confirmed cronobacter, salmonella or other infections in infants who had been fed formula made at the plant. Abbott officials said no link was found between the illnesses and the company's formula, the records show.

The lawsuits accuse Abbott of negligence, fraud and failing to warn parents of potential dangers of powdered formula and demand at least $450,000 per family.

Abbott officials say there is no proven link between the product and any infections, including the cases outlined in the lawsuit. Every can of Similac says that the product is not sterile and should not be fed to premature infants or infants who might have immune problems, unless directed and supervised by a doctor.

No sealed, distributed product from our facilities have tested positive for Cronobacter sakazakii and we dont believe these claims have merit, Abbott officials said in an email Wednesday.

In a court filing, Abbott officials argued that there was no common connection between the cases, which occurred at different times, in different states and involved two different types of formula.

The fact that each infant experienced a Cronobacter infection (months or years apart) is of no moment," the company said.

The illnesses underscore the difficulty for regulators and health officials to keep tabs on bacteria that are everywhere  but also notoriously difficult to detect and track.

Cronobacter bacteria are common in nature, including in water and soil, and are found in home kitchens, including sinks, counters and even the scoops used to measure formula powder. But they can also be found in large factories, where they lurk on equipment and in the environment.

The bacteria's ubiquity can make it hard to determine exactly when it got into the formula cans.

Evidence of cronobacter was found in open cans of Abbott formula in the homes of Willow and Mira and confirmed to be the cause of their infections, documents show. But the same strains of the bacteria were not detected in sealed cans of formula or at the Abbott factories, federal officials said. It's not clear how Ryker became infected.

That doesnt prove that the products were free of contamination, said Barbara Kowalcyk, director of the Center for Food Safety and Nutrition Security at George Washington University. Cronobacter cells tend to clump within dry foods like formula and are not distributed evenly, making detection unreliable, if not impossible.

If you get negative test results, it doesnt tell you as much as a positive test result does, Kowalcyk. If you get a positive, youve got a big problem. If you get a negative, you dont know whats going on.

That stymies efforts to detect and stop cronobacter infections, which are particularly dangerous to newborns and babies born prematurely. Such infants are vulnerable to illnesses caused by the germ because their immune systems arent developed enough to fight it off. In those babies, the bacteria can move from the gut to the bloodstream and from there to the brain, where they can have devastating effects.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention typically receives two to four reports per year of infections caused by cronobacter, though officials believe thats an undercount. In 2023, four infections were reported to the agency, records show. They included reports of invasive illness in Mira and Willow and in an unidentified baby in Maryland who was infected with cronobacter and developed meningitis in December after consuming Similac Advance powdered formula made by Abbott.

The CDC began formally tracking illnesses from the germ this year. So far, one confirmed case of cronobacter infection in an infant has been reported, officials said, though they provided no details. Powdered infant formula is the most common cause of cronobacter infections in babies, the agency said.

The 2022 Abbott crisis led Congress and federal investigators to sharply criticize the FDAs oversight of infant formula. In a scathing audit issued in June, federal investigators found that the agency took 15 months to respond to a whistleblower complaint about the Sturgis plant and lacked basic safeguards to prevent dangerous and deadly infections.

The FDA says it has revamped oversight by creating a new human foods program and overhauled the way officials respond to reports of contamination, illnesses and deaths tied to infant formula. The audit represents a snapshot in time, and the FDA continues to make progress, the agency said in a statement.

Jim Jones, head of the program, said inspection issues, consumer complaints and whistleblower reports will now be routed to a single office.

It will make it easier for us to be quicker at identifying a signal, he said in a recent interview.

But for Willows family, such changes come too late. Ping, who received the formula through her states WIC program for low-income families, said she had no idea that powdered formula could contain bacteria that might harm her baby.

She said her family agreed to file a lawsuit to help hold Abbott accountable and raise awareness about the dangers of powdered formula.

Parents need to know that powdered formula is not sterile, Ping said. It just needs to be out there. It needs to be known.

___

Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this report.

___

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.
Back-to-back SpaceX launches from Florida's Space Coast will kick off the weekend

SpaceX is planning back-to-back Falcon 9 launches from the Space Coast this week. On both Friday and Saturday mornings, spectators can expect a bright rocket rising into the sky to start off the day.

These launches will come after what's been a quiet week. The last launch Florida saw was the SpaceX launch of the NG-21 resupply mission for NASA on Sunday  a Northrop Grumman Cygnus spacecraft which was successfully captured at the International Space Station early Tuesday.

So far this year, SpaceX has taken the lead by far in launch activity  accounting for 51 of the 55 launches from Florida. With SpaceX returning to back-to-back launch days, it remains to be seen if the Space Coast can break the record of 72 launches set last year.

August Florida launches: Is there a launch today? Upcoming SpaceX, NASA rocket launch schedule from Florida

When is the next SpaceX launch from Florida?

While SpaceX has yet to confirm, a Federal Aviation Administration warning indicates a launch titled "Starlink 8-3" occurring during a four-and-a-half window which opens at 8:13 a.m. EDT on Friday, August 9.

Meanwhile, a Geospatial Navigational Warnings indicates another four-and-a-half hour launch window beginning at 7:21 a.m. Saturday, August 10.

As these rockets will be carrying the latest batch of Starlink internet satellites, both launches will travel in a northeast trajectory. If conditions are clear, those north of the Cape Canaveral area may get a glimpse of the bright Falcon 9 rocket as well as spectators on the Space Coast.

While SpaceX tends to aim for the beginning of the launch window, various factors  such as the weather at launch and at the first stage landing site  can play a role in timing.

Central Florida sonic booms are not anticipated, as both rocket boosters will land on droneships in the Atlantic Ocean.

Be sure to follow the FLORIDA TODAY Space Team for the latest updates from the Space Coast.

Brooke Edwards is a Space Reporter for Florida Today. Contact her at bedwards@floridatoday.com or on X: @brookeofstars.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Launch doubleheader: SpaceX Falcon 9 launches from Cape Canaveral
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Caddo Parish students are set to return to school on Thursday, and Interim Superintendent Leisa G. Wolf reassures parents and students that the board and staff are thoroughly prepared for a successful school year.

Ms. Wolf outlined several new initiatives and expectations for the upcoming academic year. One significant addition is the high dose tutoring program aimed at helping students who are not testing at grade level or did not score mastery on their LEAP assessments.

This program will provide targeted assistance in ELA and math to improve student proficiency, supported by state funds to ensure its effective implementation.

Back to school stipend approved for Caddo Parish Schools employees

In terms of safety, the district has taken substantial measures to enhance security. All 135 security officers, including security coordinators and school resource officers, have undergone two weeks of intensive training.

This year, every school will be equipped with AED devices, and security personnel will be trained in CPR and the use of AEDs to respond to cardiac emergencies.

They will also be trained in Stop the Bleed techniques to handle bleeding emergencies. All schools and buildings will conduct regular safety drills, including fire, active shooter, and inclement weather drills.

More: Education News

Addressing the academic challenges from last year, Ms. Wolf acknowledged that cell phones pose distractions in the classroom. She assured parents that the staff is prepared to work with them to address any concerns and that parent-teacher conferences will be organized if necessary.

As Ms. Wolf summarized, We are striving to ensure that each day our students improve and feel safe. Caddo Parish schools are focused on creating a productive and secure learning environment for all students as the new school year approaches.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Children receive clear backpacks for the school year during a Humboldt Boys & Girls Meeting in Humboldt, Tenn., on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

As the 2024-2025 school year kicked off on August 1 for Humboldt City Schools, 150 students at the Boys and Girls Club of Humboldt received new backpacks on Monday.

As children return to the classroom, the giveaway alleviated families from the financial burden of purchasing new school supplies and provided valuable insight on Internet accessibility for low-income households.

Spectrum, Humboldt's newest Internet provider, provided clear backpacks with essentials like notebooks, folders, and coloring supplies.

"We just want to make sure our kids feel good about going to school and got what they need to start their year off, so they're very excited and the parents don't have to worry about getting those supplies," Humboldt Mayor Marvin Sikes said.

More: Groundbreaking Malesus STEM Innovation Center opens in Jackson-Madison County

More: Raising food and funds: RIFA tackles childhood food insecurity, snack backpack program

Children line up for treats after receiving backpacks for the upcoming school year during a Humboldt Boys & Girls Meeting in Humboldt, Tenn., on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

Also included was information about the Spectrum Internet Assist (SIA) program, a resource for those who qualify providing affordable, high-speed Internet connectivity.

According to 2020 census data, about 80% of households in Humboldt have a broadband Internet subscription of some kind. With nearly 18% of the city's population of 7,800 living in poverty, SIA serves as bridge in the gap between low-income households and access to affordable Internet.

Charter Communications/Spectrum has served Humboldt since April, following a purchase of the city's former provider, 1Tennessee. Nationally, Spectrum services more than 57 million homes and business in 41 states.

Along with the backpacks, Spectrum donated four laptops that will live at the Boys and Girls Club for the students to use. Sikes says Spectrum is an asset to the community and the backpack giveaway is exemplary of the being a good partner.

Children receive clear backpacks for the school year during a Humboldt Boys & Girls Meeting in Humboldt, Tenn., on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

"They just wanted to be a part of things going on in Humboldt, Tennessee and they thought this would be a wonderful start here at the Boys and Girls Club," he said.

"They'll be involved with a lot of other things in the future as well so we're looking forward to working with them, a new partnership and a new organization."

The backpacks being clear was an intentional safety precaution and in compliance with the bag policy of Humboldt City Schools.

Children receive clear backpacks for the school year during a Humboldt Boys & Girls Meeting in Humboldt, Tenn., on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

"With so much stuff going on in the world, we just want to make sure if anything enters a school, it's proper. That way, you canlook through the bag and make sure there's nothing in there that they shouuldn't be bringing to school, either on accident or on purpose," Sikes said.

Sen. John Stevens, R-Huntingdon 24th District added that Spectrum's investment in both the community and Humboldt students is commendable.

"Spectrum has been integral in West Tennessee as they've expanded the footprint and really supported the community partners like the Boys and Girls Club," he said. "They've made a really big investment in expanding access to high-speed broadband [Internet]."

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: Humboldt students receive school supply-filled backpacks from Spectrum
DHAKA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Bangladeshi Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said Wednesday that an interim government, headed by economist Muhammad Yunus, is likely to be sworn in on Thursday night.

Waker said at a press conference in Dhaka that the interim government is likely to be sworn in at 8:00 p.m. local time on Thursday.

He also said the advisory council may have 15 members.

On Tuesday, President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved the parliament, paving the way for the formation of an interim government following the fall of the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 
Get back-to-school supplies in Abbeville this Saturday

ABBEVILLE, La. (KLFY)  This Saturday, children in need of back-to-school supplies can attend the Annual Sack 4 Support Back 2 School in Abbeville.

The community function will be held at the Boys & Girls Club of Acadiana on 301 AA Comeaux Memorial Drive in Abbeville from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Louisiana State Police teamed up with Once Was Inc., Vermilion Parish Sheriffs Office, Acadiana Renaissance Charter Academy, DJ N.V. Navy Vet, and Waste Connections to provide back-to-school supplies for children in need.

The school supplies will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Children must be present at the event to pick up school supplies.

For more information about the Annual Sack 4 Support Back 2 School, contact Once Was Inc. at 832-594-4321.

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By Joshua McElwee

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis, back from his summer break, is beginning a hectic few months of travel and major debate over the future direction of the Catholic Church. Some Vatican watchers see an ageing pope out to cement his legacy of opening up the Church to the modern world.

In September, the 87-year-old pontiff, who now regularly uses a wheelchair due to knee and back pain, is due to carry out at least two trips abroad, including a 12-day, four-country visit to Asia that is set to be his longest yet.

The pope, who resumed his weekly general audiences on Wednesday after a month-long summer pause, will also visit Belgium and Luxembourg.

Then in October, Francis will lead a four-week meeting at the Vatican of hundreds of Catholic bishops to discuss possible reforms for a Church, which has 1.4 billion members worldwide.

Debates are set to include disputed issues such as whether to open the Catholic priesthood to married men, or allow women to serve as deacons, who fulfil some parish duties.

Given the pace of the schedule, some Church watchers see a pope in a hurry to make an impact, and to confirm his legacy of opening up uncomfortable conversations and trying to engage with as wide an audience as possible.

Or, as Francis said once, of creating a Church that is "bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets".

Christopher Bellitto, a U.S. Church historian who has written extensively on the papacy, said, given the pope's age, this may be the "final stage" of the pontificate. "He's got to be thinking ... of how to make sure his vision continues," said Bellitto, a professor at Kean University in New Jersey.

'HOT AUTUMN'

Paola Lazzarini, an Italian Church reform advocate, said it would be a "hot autumn" for Francis, who was elected in 2013.

Referring to the possibility of a succession in the coming months or years, Lazzarini said: "Expectations are high, his energy is diminishing, and many are already acting in view of what happens next."

Much of Francis's agenda over the past few years has been devoted to the upcoming meeting of bishops, known formally as a synod. It is part of a first-of-its-kind Vatican consultation process with Catholics across the globe, launched by the pope in 2021.

October's meeting will consider issues raised in the consultations such as the Church's sexual teachings, its opposition to birth control, and treatment of LGBT Catholics.

The consultation process has provoked sharp criticism from the pope's conservative critics, including several cardinals, who say it could dilute the Church's teachings.

Last year's assembly ended without any clear decisions, leaving expectations high for the second gathering this year. In March, Francis created 10 study groups to consider some of the most contentious issues. After the October event, he is expected to write a document, which could settle some of the debates, for release likely in early 2025.

Francis is also due in coming months to choose a new leader for the Vatican's sexual abuse commission, after it was roiled last year by the shock resignation of one of its members, a globally known abuse prevention expert.

Cardinal Sean O'Malley, who has led the group since its creation by Francis in 2014, is expected to step down from the role soon due to age limits on Church service. O'Malley, aged 80, retired as archbishop of Boston on Aug. 5.

Bellitto, the Church historian, said one major goal of Francis is to ensure that his method for consultation with Catholics globally becomes "a permanent way of proceeding" for the Church.

But, given the near-total authority that popes have in governing the global faith institution, Bellitto added: "The next pope could undo that in a moment."

"It seems that (Francis) understands that," he said. "He's been given a baton, he does what he thinks best, and he passes it along."

In any case, the pace won't relent for Francis in 2025. He, the Vatican and the city of Rome are preparing for a year's worth of events and an estimated 32 million tourists during the coming Roman Catholic Jubilee or Holy Year.

(Reporting by Joshua McElwee; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
ATLANTA, Ga. (WRBL)  A bald eagle at Zoo Atlanta was euthanized on Wednesday morning, according to the zoos communications department.

Sequoyah, a male bald eagle, was hatched in the wild. After injuring his wing, he was taken to Southeast Raptor Center for rehabilitation.

Zoo Atlanta says due to the nature of Sequoyahs injury, he was in need of a permanent home with human care. He was taken to Zoo Atlanta in June of 2015.

Sequoyahs original injury healed, but in recent weeks, Animal Care and Veterinary Teams with Zoo Atlanta noticed he may have been experiencing increased discomfort in his wing.

Zoo Atlanta says diagnostic procedures revealed a poor prognosis. According to the zoo, the decision was made to humanely euthanize Sequoyah.

Vice President of Collections and Conservation Gina Ferrie says the team is honored to have provided Sequoyah with a home for the past nine years.

Sequoyah was a magnificent individual who introduced countless Zoo Members and guests to the majesty of a national symbol, said Ferrie. And he represented a conservation story for one of North Americas most treasured native species.

Bald eagles are a federally protected species. According to Zoo Atlanta, they are currently considered threatened in Georgia.

One of their most pressing threats are power line collisions, which Zoo Atlanta believes was likely the case with Sequoyahs wing injury. Other threats include automobile collisions, lead poisoning, and pollution.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
Former Republican Cincinnati State Rep. Tom Brinkman was against the sale of the city-owned Cincinnati Southern Railway for $1.6 billion, which voters approved last November.

So he's pivoting. Brinkman, who lives in Mount Lookout, filed paperwork with the city of Cincinnati Tuesday that indicated he plans to gather signatures for a charter amendment that would put $600 million of the sale money toward property tax relief for Cincinnati homeowners.

Voters last year decided to sell Cincinnatis railroad for $1.6 billion. Money is set to be used for long deferred Cincinnati infrastructure maintence, but former Republican State Rep. Tom Brinkman wants to spend $600 million on property tax relief for city residents.

The charter amendment seeks to take the $600 million out of the fund and transfer it to a property tax relief fund, which would gain interest. Then the fund would automatically pay city property taxes for Cincinnati property owners until the fund is gone. It would not include voter-approved property taxes like school levies or levies for the Cincinnati Zoo or Cincinnati and Hamilton County Cincinnati Public Library.

Brinkman, who is running for Hamilton County auditor against Democrat Jessica Miranda, would need to collect 8,786 valid signatures for Cincinnati City Council to vote on it by Sept. 6.

'Shouldn't taxpayers directly get something?'

Money from the railroad sale was used to create a trust fund, from which investment money will be used each year to repair infrastructure. Estimates show the city could reap $50 million to $80 million a year from the fund.

"We lost the campaign against selling the railroad," Brinkman told The Enquirer. "Property taxes paid for the railroad 150 years ago so shouldn't taxpayers directly get something?"

Brinkman estimated the fund would last between 15 and 20 years.

"The people who got really hurt by property tax assessment are the working poor, the middle class," Brinkman said. "This would be a lot of relief for them. It would be a tremendous savings for people who didnt give up on the city. It is for the people who are the rock of the city."

Is this really about the auditor's race? No, Brinkman said. He said this is about giving taxpayers the money they deserve from the sale.

This would be Brinkman's 11th charter amendment campaign since 1991, with him never failing to get the needed signatures. However, the charter amendments haven't always passed.

Would the idea be legally viable?

To circulate a petition, the person seeking the change needs the signatures of five registered city voters. This has the signatures of Brinkman, Republican Hamilton County Commissioner candidate Adam Koehler, West Side residents Pete Witte and Amber Kassem and Northside resident Sarah Wolf, who runs the Facebook group, Hamilton County Homeowners United, which seeks to give a voice to people who need property tax relief. Koehler and Witte were among those opposed to the railroad sale.

It's unclear if the amendment supersedes the legal structure of the railroad sale. The state legislature had to approve the sale and language in the approval says the money must be spent on maintaining current infrastructure. Brinkman pooh-poohed that and said the details can be worked out later if needed. This ballot initiative, he said, is about what voters want.

Anyone seeking a ballot petition must turn the petition language in to the city's clerk of council before circulating them.

Cincinnati Southern Railway Board President Paul Muething Tuesday said he had not heard about the proposed change. Muething, a lawyer, said state law might need to be amended to pave the way for a change in how the money is spent.

Former Republican state Rep. Tom Brinkman.

Pureval: Railroad sale was expressly to pay for infrastructure

Although the initiative would only impact Cincinnati residents and be voted on by Cincinnati voters, the idea comes at a time when Hamilton County property owners have been hit with higher property taxes.

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, who appeared in television ads for the railroad sale and championed it on the campaign trail last year, said more vetting would need to be done "to understand the potential impacts."

"But what we do know is that the funds from the railroad sale are needed, and the trust fund has been established, to address the hundreds of millions of dollars in deferred maintenance of our existing infrastructure," Pureval said. "That was the express purpose of the sale, and restrictions on spending were codified into law for a reason."

A property tax assessment last year resulted in, on average, property taxes in Hamilton County increasing 28% while total taxes increased about 12%, according to January figures released by the Hamilton County auditor.

What the city is already doing

In March, Councilman Mark Jeffreys created a property tax relief task force, which is developing recommendations to provide financial relief in Cincinnati. Jeffreys had suggested $50 million the city set aside for pandemic-related earnings tax rebates be put toward property tax relief, but that idea has never come to a vote.

Last month Cincinnati City Council announced the HomeSafe Property Tax Relief Program ("HomeSafe") to help Cincinnatians stay in their homes. Council allocated $1 million to provide tax relief of up to $10,000 to eligible low- to moderate-income homeowners currently delinquent on their property taxes.

What the petition says:

Section 1. Establishment. There is hereby established a Property Tax Relief Fund to be funded, administered, and utilized as set forth herein.

Section 2A. Funding. No later than 14 days after the effective date hereof, the board of trustees of the Cincinnati Southern Railway shall transfer $600 million to the city of Cincinnati which shall, in turn, place said funds into the Property Tax Relief Fund.

Section 2B. Investment Income. The City of Cincinnati may invest the funds of the Property Tax Relief Fund and any income as result of said investments shall be deposited in the Property Tax Relief Fund.

Section 2C. Funds Restricted. All funds within the Property Tax Relief Fund may only be administered and utilized as set forth herein. The city of Cincinnati may not transfer or otherwise dispose of any funds within the Property Tax Relief Fund except as expressly provided herein.

Section 3A. Full Property Tax Relief.No later (than) 14 days after the effective date hereof, the city of Cincinnati shall ascertain from the Hamilton County auditor the amount of dollars the City of Cincinnati is to receive from the forthcoming semi-annual tax assessment on real property. The City of Cincinnati shall, within 15 days of the receipt of said amount, pay to the Hamilton County treasurer from the Property Tax Relief Fund said amount which shall be credited towards the real property tax owed to the City of Cincinnati from each owner of real property within the City of Cincinnati.

Thereafter, the City of Cincinnati shall ascertain from the Hamilton County auditor the amount of dollars the city of Cincinnati is to receive from each ensuing semi-annual tax assessment at least 45 days prior to the sending of property tax bills by the county treasurer. The city of Cincinnati shall, within 15 days of the receipt of said amount and provided the Property Tax Relief Fund has sufficient funds to pay said entire amount, pay to the Hamilton County treasurer from the Property Tax Relief Fund said amount which shall be credited towards the real property tax owed to the City of Cincinnati from each owner of real property within the City of Cincinnati.

Section 3B. Partial Property Tax Relief. If the Property Tax Relief Fund does not have sufficient funds to pay the entire amount provided for in Section 3A, then the City of Cincinnati shall pay to the Hamilton County treasurer all available funds from the Property Tax Relief Fund. Said payment from the Property Tax Relief Fund shall be credited pro rata towards the real property tax owed from each owner of real property within the City of Cincinnati.

Section 4. Termination. Upon the depletion of all funds with the Property Tax Relief Fund, the city of Cincinnati shall terminate or close out the Property Tax Relief Fund.

Section 5. Self-Executing. The provisions herein shall be self-executing, but the Cincinnati City Council shall have the power to enact ordinances necessary and proper to ensure the implementation of the provisions herein.

What the railroad ballot language said:

Shall the Cincinnati Southern Railway Board of Trustees be authorized to sell the Cincinnati Southern Railway to an entity, the ultimate parent company of which is Norfolk Southern Corporation, for a purchase price of $1,600,000,000, to be paid in a single installment during the year 2024, with the moneys received to be deposited into a trust fund operated by the Cincinnati Southern Railway Board of Trustees, with the City of Cincinnati as the sole beneficiary, the moneys to be annually disbursed to the municipal corporation in an amount no less than $26,500,000 per year, for the purpose of the rehabilitation, modernization, or replacement of existing streets, bridges, municipal buildings, parks and green spaces, site improvements, recreation facilities, improvements for parking purposes, and any other public facilities owned by the City of Cincinnati, and to pay for the costs of administering the trust fund.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati could vote to use railroad money for property tax relief
Banana Festival returns to Sacramento with more fruit-themed fun. Heres what to expect

The Sacramento Banana Festival returns to the capital city this month with more fruit-themed fun.

Festivities take place Saturday, Aug. 17, and Sunday, Aug. 18, at William Land Park, according to the Banana Festival website.

The Banana Festival is a great family-friendly multicultural event, organizers said on the website. We celebrate the beautiful countries in the world where bananas grow, their eclectic cultures, ethnically diverse people, food and rhythmic music.

Nakia Porter, Melanin Day School Academy director, tries to get the younger children to bow after their performance at the 2022 Sacramento Banana Festival at William Land Park.

When and where is Sacramento Banana Festival in 2024?

The Banana Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17 and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18.

Itll be in the Village Greens section of William Land Park, 3855 East Park Road in Sacramento.

Brenda Osorio-Vallejo dances during a performance by the Brazilian Center For Cultural Exchange of Sacramento at the 2022 Sacramento Banana Festival at William Land Park.

What can I eat at the festival at William Land Park?

Its all about bananas at the Banana Festival, now in its 13th year.

According to the website, more than 25 food vendors and trucks will be at the event, with many serving banana-inspired treats.

You can expect banana bean pies, banana cheesecake, banana pudding, banana splits, banana beignets and frozen chocolate-covered bananas.

There are also banana street tacos, banana caramel nachos and banana-glazed turkey rolls.

For the adults, theres a banana bar that serves banana-flavored beer, wine and margaritas.

Millie, 7, and her sister Claire, 4, dressed as bananas to attend Sacramentos annual Banana Festival in 2019.

What are things to do at event? Are there kids activities?

Attendees can expect a variety of activities at the Banana Festival, including live music, retail shopping and community resource booths.

Families can enjoy the Kids Zone, which has inflatable obstacle courses, rock climbing, a reptile zoo and arts and crafts.

The festival will host several contests, such as a banana eating contest, pie eating contest, a mini parade and best-dressed banana dog costume contest.

How much do tickets cost?

Pre-sale tickets are available on Eventbrite until Friday, Aug. 16.

Advance ticket prices for one-day entry for adults are $8. Children 6 to 17 years old are $6.

Seniors and military personnel are also $6.

At the gate, tickets for adults cost $10, and admission for children, seniors and military members costs $8.

Kids 5 and under are free.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com.
DHAKA (Reuters) - A court in Bangladesh overturned on Wednesday the conviction of Muhammad Yunus, the head of the country's interim government, in a case relating to labour law violations, the lawyer of the Nobel laureate said.

Yunus was out on bail after being handed a 6-month jail sentence in January for failing to create a welfare fund for employees of Grameen Telecom, a company he founded.

(Reporting by Ruma Paul; editing by Sudipto Ganguly)
A view shows Bijoy Sarani intersection traffic, days after the resignation of former Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka

By Sam Jahan and Tanvi Mehta

DHAKA (Reuters) -Garment factories in Bangladesh, forecast to account for 90% of the country's exports, reopened on Wednesday hoping to swiftly resume full operations after production was disrupted by violent protests that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina this week.

Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday after around 300 people were killed and thousands injured in a crackdown on student-led protests since July.

Garment and textile factories which supply major western brands such as H&M, Zara and Carrefour had been forced to shut under curfews.

"We lost a total of four days, it is too early to make an estimate of the loss. There was little physical damage to factories," Miran Ali, vice president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), told Reuters.

"I am hopeful that in the next few days, we will see complete normalisation," he said. "I'm confident our buyers will stand by our side."

He added that H&M, which buys from about 1,000 factories in Bangladesh, had already said it would not seek discounts due to the delays. The world's second largest fashion retailer told Reuters on Wednesday its suppliers' factories were gradually reopening and it welcomed steps taken for greater stability in Bangladesh.

At a factory belonging to apparel maker Urmi Garments in Dhaka, the mainly female employees were back operating sewing machines.

"We are poor people depending on daily wages and overtime. If we sit back home, how can we run our families?" 38-year old Razia Begum, an employee at the factory, told Reuters.

Factory manager Emdadul Haq said the factory had lost 228,000 pieces of production worth $107,000. In all, Urmi, which counts H&M, Japan's Uniqlo and Britain's Marks and Spencer among its clients, had lost about $2.2 million across three units, he said.

Though factories were reopening, there could be some damage to trade. Hula Global, an Indian apparel producer that serves Western clients, said on Monday it would redirect production for the rest of this year from Bangladesh to India to avert risk.

Pankaj Tuteja, Mumbai-based head of operations at Dragon Sourcing, which helps firms find suppliers, told Reuters that while it expected big brands such as Zara and H&M to stick with Bangladesh, some firms that looked elsewhere could stay away.

"Once the client, then the factories, have invested so much time and money they will not just immediately run back, even when there's political stability. That can have a long-term impact for Bangladesh," Tuteja said.

But Bangladesh would remain attractive because of costs that are 15-25% lower than elsewhere, and 0% tariffs, Tuteja added.

The International Monetary Fund expects the ready-made garments industry will account for 90% of Bangladesh's $55 billion annual exports in the financial year 2024.

Bangladesh was the third-largest exporter of clothing in the world last year, according to the World Trade Organization.

(Reporting by Sam Jahan in Dhaka and Tanvi Mehta in New Delhi, additional reporting by Casey Hall in Shanghai, Marie Mannes in Stockholm, Juveria Tabassum in BengaluruWriting by Tanvi MehtaEditing by Peter Graff)
DHAKA, Bangladesh  Bangladeshs incoming interim leader Muhammad Yunus appealed for calm Wednesday and urged all parties to help the country rebuild after weeks of violence that killed hundreds and prompted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to India.

Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was in Paris for the Olympics when he was named interim leader following talks among military officials, civic leaders and the student activists who led the uprising against a prime minister seen as increasingly autocratic. Yunus made his first public comments in the French capital Wednesday before boarding a plane to return home.

He congratulated the student protesters, saying they had made our second Victory Day possible, and appealed to them and other stakeholders to remain peaceful, while condemning any violence since Hasinas resignation Monday.

Violence is our enemy. Please dont create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country, Yunus said.

Bangladeshs military chief, Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a televised address that Yunus would be sworn in Thursday night and that he expected him to usher in a beautiful democratic process. The military leader said that those responsible for violence since Hasinas resignation would be brought to justice.

Yunus, who was awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for his work developing microcredit markets, told reporters in Paris: Im looking forward to going back home and seeing whats happening there, and how we can organize ourselves to get out of the trouble that we are in.

Asked when elections would be held, he put his hands up as if to indicate it was too early to say. Ill go and talk to them. Im just fresh in this whole area.

A tribunal in Dhaka earlier on Wednesday acquitted Yunus in a labor law violation case, involving a telecommunication company he founded, in which he was convicted and sentenced to six months in jail. He had been released on bail in the case.

Ailing opposition leader and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia also urged calm on Wednesday, a day after the countrys figurehead president ordered her release from house arrest.

Zia urged her supporters not to follow a path of destruction, in an address at a rally via video link from her hospital bed. It was her first public speech since 2018, when she was convicted of corruption charges and jailed.

No destruction, no anger, and no revenge, we need love and peace to rebuild our country, she told members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.

Zias son and the acting head of the party, Tarique Rahman also addressed the crowd online from London, where he has been living in exile since 2008. Rahman faces several criminal cases and was convicted of corruption and a grenade attack, charges dismissed by supporters as politically motivated.

Zia, who ruled the country from 2001 to 2006, had been sentenced in 2018 to 17 years in prison. Her party said the case was aimed at keeipng her away from politics. Hasinas then-government denied the allegation.

On Wednesday, the capital Dhaka was calm two days after violence gripped the country amid Hasinas sudden departure. Students activists cleaned streets and managed traffic in parts of Dhaka, after police went on strike earlier in the week following violent attacks on police stations.

The countrys newly appointed police chief, Mainul Islam, ordered officers to return to work by Thursday evening.

Bangladeshs President Mohammed Shahabuddin, a symbolic figure temporarily acting as the chief executive under the constitution, asked security officials on Wednesday to take stern action against any troublemakers.

The president had dissolved Parliament on Tuesday, clearing the path for an interim administration that is expected to schedule new elections, but its not clear when they will take place.

Shahabuddin named Yunus as the head of an interim government in consultation with the army, student leaders and other stakeholders. Yunus, an economist and banker, has been a longtime opponent of Hasina, who had called him a bloodsucker allegedly for using force to extract loan repayments from rural poor, mainly women. Yunus has denied the allegations.

Violence in days surrounding Hasinas 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. Reports said more attacks took place across the country also on Tuesday. The looting of firearms also was reported in local media.

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.

Homes of former ministers and MPs belonging to Hasinas party were looted, torched or vandalized. People were seen on social media taking valuables from the home of Hasinas younger sister in Dhakas Gulshan area. Four separate neighbors confirmed the looting in comments to The Associated Press.

Local media also reported that ruling party officials were among the dead in this weeks violence, mostly outside Dhaka. There also were reports of violence against the Hindu community and other minorities, triggering condemnation from Human Rights Watch. Details of that violence could not be independently confirmed.

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 unrest began in July with protests against a quota system for government jobs, which critics said favored people with connections to Hasinas party. But they soon grew into a broader challenge to Hasinas 15-year rule, which was marked by human rights abuses, corruption, allegations of rigged elections and a brutal crackdown on her opponents. More than 300 people died in just a few weeks.

The quick move to choose Yunus came when Hasinas 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, which took temporary control until the interim government could be sworn in, wields significant influence in a country that has seen more than 20 coups or coup attempts since its independence from Pakistan in 1971.

Many fear that Hasinas 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 a complex strategic relationship with India, China and the United States.

Hasina, 76, was elected to a fourth consecutive term in January, in an election boycotted by her main opponents. Thousands of opposition members were jailed before the vote, and the U.S. and U.K. denounced the result as not credible.
Bangladeshs interim government likely to be sworn in on Thursday

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

The interim Bangladeshi government, to be headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is likely to be sworn in on Thursday night, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said at a media briefing aired live on Wednesday in the capital Dhaka.

Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday decided to appoint Yunus as the head of the caretaker administration, to oversee the next election after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday in the face of mass protests.

The Nobel laureate economist and entrepreneur, who championed the concepts of microcredit and microfinance, is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon from Dubai, a press release from the Yunus Centre said.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the oath-taking ceremony will be held at 8 pm (1400 GMT). The size of the interim caretaker administration is likely to be 15, he said.

A panel of advisers to the interim government is also to be appointed shortly after Yunus arrives.

"We hope we will be able to create a good atmosphere in the country, overcoming the crisis," the army chief said, calling upon the public to avoid spreading any rumours at a time of crisis.

Ahead of his return to Bangladesh, Yunus called upon the country's young people to remain calm and get ready to rebuild the country.

Yunus congratulated the students and the people of the South Asian country for making possible a "Second Victory Day," the statement added in reference to the deadly student protests that forced the ouster of Hasina.

"Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes," he said, calling upon everyone to refrain from all kinds of violence.

"This is our beautiful country with lots of exciting possibilities. We must protect and make it a wonderful country for us and for our future generations," Yunus said.

Hasina, who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for the last 15 years, resigned as prime minister and fled to India by a military helicopter, prompting thousands of protesters to break into her home in Dhaka and loot everything.

The more than three weeks of violent protests left some 300 people dead before Hasina left, and roughly 100 others were killed as violence flared up in many parts of the country in the aftermath of her resignation.

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

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
Bangladeshs interim government likely to be sworn in on Thursday

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

The interim Bangladeshi government, to be headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is likely to be sworn in on Thursday night, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said at a media briefing aired live on Wednesday in the capital Dhaka.

Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday decided to appoint Yunus as the head of the caretaker administration, to oversee the next election after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday in the face of mass protests.

The Nobel laureate economist and entrepreneur, who championed the concepts of microcredit and microfinance, is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon from Dubai, a press release from the Yunus Centre said.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the oath-taking ceremony will be held at 8 pm (1400 GMT). The size of the interim caretaker administration is likely to be 15, he said.

"We hope we will be able to create a good atmosphere in the country, overcoming the crisis," the army chief said, calling upon the public to avoid spreading any rumours at a time of crisis.

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
NEW DELHI, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Indian air carriers have resumed flight operations to Bangladesh's capital Dhaka amid political turmoil in the neighbouring country, officials said Wednesday.

The Indian carriers, including Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo, resumed their flight services to Dhaka briefly disrupted for a day following the resignation of Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday.

The airlines are also offering rescheduling waivers to accommodate affected passengers.

A special Air India flight brought 205 people from Dhaka to New Delhi on Wednesday morning.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed on Tuesday that Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening. 
(Bloomberg) -- Sheikh Hasina, who resigned as prime minister and fled Bangladesh this week amid dramatic protests against her reign, has no plans to return to the country her family shaped for decades.

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She said she will never go back to Bangladesh, Sajeeb Wazed, Hasinas son and an adviser in her ousted government, said in a phone interview from Washington. In fact, to be entirely candid, she told me that none of our family will ever go back to Bangladesh.

Her resignation marks the end of an era for a family thats ruled Bangladesh for much of its modern history. Hasinas father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was the nations first president and led the independence struggle against Pakistan that created an independent Bangladesh in 1971.

Read: Swift Downfall of Iron-Fisted Sheikh Hasina Marks New Era in Bangladesh

Hasinas imprint on the country is no less indelible. Shes Bangladeshs longest-serving prime minister and has won successive elections since 2009. Under her tenure, Hasina lifted millions out of poverty through garment exports, adroitly balanced ties with China and India, and rooted out Islamists from politics in one of the worlds few Muslim democracies.

But critics say authoritarian impulses pulled Bangladesh in a darker direction, and that Hasina stamped out dissent by filling her administration with loyalists and hobbling opponents through legal pressure. Those frustrations boiled over on Sunday, when protesters began to forcefully demand her resignation.

By Monday, Hasina and her sister were on a plane bound for India. Shes been moved to an undisclosed location in Delhi and will stay for as long as she needs, according to Indian officials who didnt want to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue. Several nations, including India, are being considered for a more permanent move, according to the officials.

S. Jaishankar, Indias Minister of External Affairs, said in Parliament that Hasinas request to come to Delhi from Dhaka happened at very short notice. The ministry didnt respond to a Bloomberg request for comment.

As to where she will live, no decision has been made, said Sajeeb, without elaborating. He said he spoke with his mother after she reached Delhi and she was in perfect health and good spirits, but sad about the turmoil in Bangladesh and the hundreds whove been killed there in recent weeks.

Sajeeb said his mother had already planned to retire in a few years with the end of her fifth term. For her to be pushed out this way, and my grandfathers memory, the father of the nation, to be insulted and desecrated in this manner, has disappointed all of us, he said.

Sajeeb said the Bangladesh government under Hasina had made mistakes during 15 years of consecutive rule, but officials always righted the ship.

Nothing is perfect, Sajeeb said, adding that strong leaders in developing countries who win successive elections are often unfairly called dictators.

The former leaders son blamed Pakistan and the US for fanning the protests that ultimately pushed Hasina out. The demonstrations initially started over opposition to quotas that reserve government jobs for specific groups  a law many felt favored Hasinas allies.

I do not have any evidence of interference, Sajeeb said, but Im quite certain that Pakistan is involved. He said the US State Department had also taken a more critical line against his mother.

The US prefers foreign governments that are more under their control or follow their instructions, he said. They could not do that with my mother in power.

(Adds comment from Indias external affairs minister. A previous version corrected the name of Hasinas father.)

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Bangladesh new interim leader Yunus heads home, government to be sworn in on Thursday

Traffic at Bijoy Sarani intersection, days after the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka

Traffic at Bijoy Sarani intersection, days after the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka

By Ruma Paul and Sudipto Ganguly

DHAKA (Reuters) -The Nobel Peace laureate tapped to lead an interim government in Bangladesh called for calm and boarded a flight on Wednesday to return home, a day before his new government is expected to be sworn in to replace ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Muhammad Yunus, 84, was picked by President Mohammed Shahabuddin to lead the new interim government, a key demand of student demonstrators whose uprising drove Hasina to flee to India on Monday.

"Let us make the best use of our new victory," he said in a statement to Reuters before departing Paris, where he had been receiving medical treatment while out on bail from criminal cases brought under Hasina. "I fervently appeal to everybody to stay calm. Please refrain from all kinds of violence."

Outside the airport, he told reporters: "I'm looking forward to going back home and see what's happening there and how we can organise ourselves to get out of the trouble that we're in."

"I'll go and talk to them. I'm just fresh in this whole area," said Yunus, an economist who was awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for founding a bank that pioneered fighting poverty with small loans to ordinary people.

President Shahabuddin said the rest of the interim government needed to be finalised soon to overcome the crisis and pave the way for elections. Nahid Islam, a key student leader, said he expected the members to be chosen by late Wednesday.

Army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said that he was hopeful the interim government would be sworn in by late Thursday and that the situation in the country was improving and was expected to become normal in the next 3-4 days.

He also said that military leaders had held discussions with student leaders, political parties, and the president and that he was confident that Yunus would be able to take the country towards a democratic process.

President Shahabuddin also announced the appointment of a new police chief, Mohammad Mainul Islam, to replace Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun as part of a shake-up of the security top brass that also included a new head of the technical intelligence monitoring agency and changes among senior army officials.

'NO DESTRUCTION OR REVENGE'

Ahead of the arrival of Yunus, a court overturned his conviction in a labour case in which he was handed a six-month jail sentence in January. Yunus had called his prosecution political, part of a campaign by Hasina to quash dissent.

The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), buoyed by its chief Khaleda Zia's release from house arrest on Tuesday, drew hundreds of people to a rally in Dhaka and demanded elections within three months.

Zia, 78, a former prime minister and Hasina's arch rival, addressed the rally by video link, as did her exiled eldest son Tarique Rahman, who was introduced as the country's next prime minister. Both called on their followers not to seek revenge.

"No destruction, revenge or vengeance," Zia said from her hospital bed. Her son said: "National elections should be held soon and power should be handed over to a government elected by the people at the earliest."

Zia had feuded and alternated power with Hasina since the early 1990s. She and Rahman were convicted of graft in 2018, in what they called a trumped up case.

Hasina's resignation triggered jubilation across the country and crowds stormed and ransacked her official residence unopposed after she fled, ending a 15-year second stint in office.

The daughter of state founder Mujibur Rahman, Hasina survived the assassination of her father and most of his family in 1975. She ran Bangladesh for 20 of the last 30 years.

Public anger against Hasina was also in part due to economic distress. Bangladesh's $450 billion economy expanded under Hasina as the mainstay garments sector grew. But costly imports, high inflation, youth unemployment and shrinking reserves in recent years pushed it to seek a $4.7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund.

"The protests...have exacerbated downside risks to economic growth, fiscal performance, and external metrics," ratings agency S&P said in a note on Wednesday. "The damage to credit metrics may be contained if the sociopolitical situation normalises soon and Bangladesh forms a new government."

Though calm has mainly returned there were still signs of lingering unrest.

Protests broke out at on Wednesday the headquarters of the Bangladesh Bank in Dhaka on Wednesday when hundreds of officials from the central bank forced four of its deputy governors to resign over alleged corruption, two sources at the bank said.

The bank did not immediately comment.

India, target of anger from some Bangladeshis for taking in Hasina, 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 reopened after having been shut for weeks. Garments factories that had been shut for days also began opening on Wednesday.

The movement that toppled Hasina rose out of demonstrations against public sector job quotas for families of veterans of the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan, seen by critics as a means to reserve jobs for allies of her Awami League party.

(Reporting by Ruma Paul in Dhaka, Sudipto Ganguly in Mumbai, Krishn Kaushik in New Delhi, Charlotte Greenfield in Islamabad, Liz Lee in Beijing, Shounak Dasgupta in Bengaluru and Xiao Xu in Singapore; Writing by Shivam Patel; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan and YP Rajesh)
DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP)  Bangladeshs incoming interim leader Muhammad Yunus appealed for calm Wednesday and urged all parties to help the country rebuild after weeks of violence that killed hundreds and prompted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to India.

Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was in Paris for the Olympics when he was named interim leader following talks among military officials, civic leaders and the student activists who led the uprising against a prime minister seen as increasingly autocratic. Yunus made his first public comments in the French capital Wednesday before boarding a plane to return home.

He congratulated the student protesters, saying they had made our second Victory Day possible, and appealed to them and other stakeholders to remain peaceful, while condemning any violence since Hasinas resignation Monday.

Violence is our enemy. Please dont create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country, Yunus said.

Bangladeshs military chief, Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a televised address that Yunus would be sworn in Thursday night and that he expected him to usher in a beautiful democratic process. The military leader said that those responsible for violence since Hasinas resignation would be brought to justice.

Yunus, who was awarded the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize for his work developing microcredit markets, told reporters in Paris: Im looking forward to going back home and seeing whats happening there, and how we can organize ourselves to get out of the trouble that we are in.

Asked when elections would be held, he put his hands up as if to indicate it was too early to say. Ill go and talk to them. Im just fresh in this whole area.

A tribunal in Dhaka earlier on Wednesday acquitted Yunus in a labor law violation case, involving a telecommunication company he founded, in which he was convicted and sentenced to six months in jail. He had been released on bail in the case.

Ailing opposition leader and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia also urged calm on Wednesday, a day after the country's figurehead president ordered her release from house arrest.

Zia urged her supporters not to follow a path of destruction, in an address at a rally via video link from her hospital bed. It was her first public speech since 2018, when she was convicted of corruption charges and jailed.

No destruction, no anger, and no revenge, we need love and peace to rebuild our country, she told members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.

Zia's son and the acting head of the party, Tarique Rahman also addressed the crowd online from London, where he has been living in exile since 2008. Rahman faces several criminal cases and was convicted of corruption and a grenade attack, charges dismissed by supporters as politically motivated.

Zia, who ruled the country from 2001 to 2006, had been sentenced in 2018 to 17 years in prison. Her party said the case was aimed at keeipng her away from politics. Hasina's then-government denied the allegation.

On Wednesday, the capital Dhaka was calm two days after violence gripped the country amid Hasinas sudden departure. Students activists cleaned streets and managed traffic in parts of Dhaka, after police went on strike earlier in the week following violent attacks on police stations.

The countrys newly appointed police chief, Mainul Islam, ordered officers to return to work by Thursday evening.

Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin, a symbolic figure temporarily acting as the chief executive under the constitution, asked security officials on Wednesday to take stern action against any troublemakers.

The president had dissolved Parliament on Tuesday, clearing the path for an interim administration that is expected to schedule new elections, but it's not clear when they will take place.

Shahabuddin named Yunus as the head of an interim government in consultation with the army, student leaders and other stakeholders. Yunus, an economist and banker, has been a longtime opponent of Hasina, who had called him a bloodsucker allegedly for using force to extract loan repayments from rural poor, mainly women. Yunus has denied the allegations.

Violence in days surrounding Hasinas 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. Reports said more attacks took place across the country also on Tuesday. The looting of firearms also was reported in local media.

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.

Homes of former ministers and MPs belonging to Hasina's party were looted, torched or vandalized. People were seen on social media taking valuables from the home of Hasinas younger sister in Dhakas Gulshan area. Four separate neighbors confirmed the looting in comments to The Associated Press.

Local media also reported that ruling party officials were among the dead in this week's violence, mostly outside Dhaka. There also were reports of violence against the Hindu community and other minorities, triggering condemnation from Human Rights Watch. Details of that violence could not be independently confirmed.

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 unrest began in July with protests against a quota system for government jobs, which critics said favored people with connections to Hasina's party. But they soon grew into a broader challenge to Hasinas 15-year rule, which was marked by human rights abuses, corruption, allegations of rigged elections and a brutal crackdown on her opponents. More than 300 people died in just a few weeks.

The quick move to choose Yunus came when Hasinas 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, which took temporary control until the interim government could be sworn in, wields significant influence in a country that has seen more than 20 coups or coup attempts since its independence from Pakistan in 1971.

Many fear that Hasinas 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 a complex strategic relationship with India, China and the United States.

Hasina, 76, was elected to a fourth consecutive term in January, in an election boycotted by her main opponents. Thousands of opposition members were jailed before the vote, and the U.S. and U.K. denounced the result as not credible.



Associated Press writers Andrea Rosa and Ahmed Hatem contributed to this report from Paris.
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

Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus, who is set to head Bangladeshs new interim administration after the downfall of Sheikh Hasinas government, has called upon the country's young people to remain calm and get ready to rebuild the country.

Yunus, who was named as the chief adviser of the next caretaker administration, is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon from Dubai, a press statement by the Yunus Centre in Dhaka said on Wednesday.

Yunus congratulated the students and the people of the South Asian country for making possible a "Second Victory Day," the statement added in reference to the deadly student protests that forced the ouster of Hasina.

"Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes," he said, calling upon everyone to refrain from all kinds of violence.

Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday decided to appoint Yunus as the chief of the caretaker administration, to oversee the next election.

A panel of advisers to the interim government is also to be appointed shortly after Yunus arrives.

Hasina, who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for the last 15 years, resigned as prime minister and fled to India by a military helicopter, prompting thousands of protesters to break into her home in Dhaka and loot everything.

The more than three weeks of violent protests left some 300 people dead before Hasina left, and roughly 100 others were killed as violence flared up in many parts of the country in the aftermath of her resignation.

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
A driver hands money to a man panhandling on a median in Jacksonville, Fla., where a ban on panhandling has been challenged in court. Citing public safety, other cities and the state of New Mexico are considering banning pedestrians, including panhandlers, from medians. Dan Scanlan/Jacksonville Today

Despite court rulings that soliciting money is protected as free speech, some cities and at least one state are considering new restrictions on panhandling in traffic medians, arguing its a safety hazard.

New Mexicos Democratic governor this year and an Arizona Republican lawmaker last year proposed statewide bans on asking for money on street medians, though neither passed. Wilmington, North Carolina, passed a similar ordinance this year, and Roanoke, Virginia, has stepped up enforcement of a law that has been on the books since last year. Advocates for homeless people have sued over a similar law in Jacksonville, Florida.

A handful of cities are turning to incentives as a solution: Oklahoma City, where courts struck down a panhandling ban, offers city cleanup work to panhandlers. Philadelphia and Fairfax County, Virginia, have similar programs, and Albuquerque, New Mexicos largest city, recently reinstated one.

The efforts have grown amid a nationwide homelessness crisis, with more people visibly soliciting money in the streets, and higher pedestrian deaths compared with before the pandemic. Backers of the bans argue that they promote safety, but opponents say that theres no proof such restrictions protect pedestrians and that they infringe on free speech rights. Court rulings have been mixed.

Many of the newest laws or proposed laws banning pedestrians on narrow medians followed one in Sandy City, Utah, which a federal appeals court upheld in 2019. The U.S. Supreme Court in 2020 declined to take up the case, leaving the law in place. The ordinance makes it illegal for any individual to sit or stand, in or on any unpaved median, or any median of less than 36 inches for any period of time.

In New Mexico  which has the highest rate of pedestrian fatalities of any state, according to a Governors Highway Safety Association report based on 2023 data  Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham this year proposed a state law banning pedestrians on narrow medians. Some cities in New Mexico, including Santa Fe and Espanola, already have such bans. Benjamin Baker, a public safety adviser to the governor, said it makes sense to keep panhandlers and others off medians near cars.

Like other proponents of the bans, Baker acknowledged theres no clear connection between panhandling and pedestrian deaths. But he said it makes intuitive sense to ban seemingly dangerous activities such as standing on narrow medians in heavy traffic.

Exercising free speech is not the issue, said Baker, who added that panhandling from a safe area is fine.

But lawmakers from her own party declined to sponsor Lujan Grishams bill. And during a special session on public safety in July called by the governor, the bills sole sponsor was Republican state Sen. Mark Moores of Albuquerque.

The panhandling just got out of control across New Mexico and primarily Albuquerque, said Moores. Its just unsafe. People are running back and forth through heavy traffic. We have to balance their right to free speech with public safety.

Despite her legislative defeat, Lujan Grisham continued to lobby for her proposed bill in a series of town halls across the state in July, saying she wants a statewide version of the city of Espanolas 2022 law banning loitering on narrow medians.

Efforts elsewhere

The American Civil Liberties Union has opposed a new law in Bangor, Maine, passed in June, that bans pedestrians from medians less than 6 feet wide in high-speed traffic areas.

Everybodys talking about how we have to get rid of these panhandlers, We dont want to see unhoused people, and then they turn around and say this is about safety. Thats not going to fly.

 Scout Katovich, staff attorney, American Civil Liberties Union Trone Center for Justice and Equality

Courts have overturned some similar laws. In 2020, the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals struck down an Oklahoma City ban, ruling the city had failed to prove a clear safety problem because of pedestrians in street medians. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to take up the case, leaving the ruling in place.

Scout Katovich, an attorney at the ACLUs Trone Center for Justice and Equality, said pedestrian safety is not a credible motive for the recent legislation.

Everybodys talking about how we have to get rid of these panhandlers, We dont want to see unhoused people, and then they turn around and say this is about safety. Thats not going to fly, Katovich said.

In Roanoke, Virginia, a ban on panhandling on medians less than 4 feet wide has been on the books since last year and enforcement is on the rise, with about a hundred $25 citations issued since spring, said Roanoke Police Capt. Andrew Pulley. Larger fines or jail sentences could follow for repeat offenders, he said.

Police have gotten complaints about panhandlers, and the city tries to respond to them, Pulley said. Issuing citations deters panhandling, he said, but the effect is usually temporary.

Its like speeding. When were there, its better, but you go away and come back and its there again.

In Arizona, Republican state Sen. John Kavanagh, who had sponsored anti-panhandling legislation in 2015, last year introduced a bill targeting panhandling on traffic medians. A committee approved the bill along party lines, but it didnt reach the Senate floor.

A legal challenge

In Florida, the Homeless Voice, a newspaper that employs homeless people to distribute it on the street and ask for donations, sued the city of Jacksonville over its new law banning panhandling in high-traffic areas, which prevented many of its workers from operating in the city.

Workers could make up to about $100 a day, which was often enough to split a hotel room or even pay rent in some areas, said Sean Cononie, publisher of the Homeless Voice.

Were going backwards in this country, Cononie said. People think homeless people are lazy, and they are not lazy. This is hard work.

The Jacksonville Homeless Voice staff is down from 90 recently to eight, he said, as police have warned his workers to stop asking drivers for money on the street.

In the Jacksonville case, federal Judge Timothy Corrigan allowed the city to continue enforcing the law during an upcoming trial, noting that the city offered to suspend enforcement on public sidewalks and enforce it only on medians. Corrigan called it a clash between First Amendment rights and public safety concerns, but did not say how he might rule.

In court papers, Jacksonville defended the ban, saying its motivated by concern for pedestrian safety and that the city respects the Homeless Voices right to ask for money on sidewalks but not in and on the citys busiest roadways without a required permit.

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The National Conference of Bar Examiners will offer both the Uniform Bar Exam and NextGen test through February 2028 to give states time to transition to the new format. (Getty Images)

Indiana will begin using a new bar exam to admit future attorneys to practice law in the state in July 2028, the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) announced on Aug. 1.

The new test, called the NextGen bar exam, will replace the Uniform Bar Examination, which Indiana has used since 2021 to admit attorneys to practice in its courts. The Indiana Supreme Court has authority over the bar exam and made the decision to adopt the new version.

Indiana joins 22 other U.S. jurisdictions in adopting the NextGen bar exam. Maryland, Missouri and Oregon, the first states to adopt the new version of the exam, will administer the test in July 2026.

U.S. News and World Report said the current bar exam has three sections consisting of 200 multiple-choice, essay and performance test questions. But in the NextGen exam, test-takers will instead be given scenarios that have elements of different knowledge areas and skills.

Brad Skolnik, executive director of the Indiana judicial branchs admission and continuing education department, said in a statement the NextGen exam tests future attorneys on skills and knowledge needed for an ever-changing legal profession.

By adopting the exam effective July 2028, we are providing Indianas law schools with the time they may need to make any necessary changes to their curriculum to ensure students are well-prepared for the exam, Skolnik said in the statement.

Our commitment remains to ensure we have highly qualified lawyers available to serve the needs of the public, he continued.

Whats on the new test?

According to a press release from the National Conference of Bar Examiners, the exam will cover nine legal focuses; civil procedure, evidence, contract law, torts, business associations, criminal law, constitutional law, real property and family law. The exam will also test skills lawyers need to have including legal research and writing, client counseling, investigation and evaluation.

The NextGen Bar exam focuses on applying legal information, rather than pure memorization. The test will be nine hours and administered over two days  shorter than the average of 12 hours it takes to administer the Uniform Bar Examination.

Additionally, while the test will be administered in-person, test takers will take the exam on a personal computer.

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In January 2024, law students from IUs Maurer and McKinney Schools of Law and the University of Notre Dame Law School, participated in a three-hour field test of NextGen Bar Exam. In a press release, the McKinney School of Law said it surveyed students to see if we are preparing them for NextGen bar exam questions.

In a report analyzing these surveys from the field test, the NCBE found there were small differences in the average scores of various demographic groups. For instance, the report said the differences between how men and women answered the short-response questions were almost nonexistent and that differences based on being a non-native English speaker were small. In 2023 the American Bar Association released data that reflected disparities in bar pass rates between white first-time test takers and first-time test takers who were Black, Hispanic or Asian.

The Indiana bar exam is administered in February and July of each year, though more students often take the exam during July. In July 2023, the overall pass rate for test takers was 70%, an increase from July 2022 (68%) and July 2021 (69%).

The NCBE will offer both the Uniform Bar Exam and NextGen test through February 2028 to give states time to transition to the new format.

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Bateman has larger-than-expected lead over Iyall in early results for 22nd District Senate race

Early results showed Jessica Bateman and Bob Iyall leading in the race for the State Senate seat representing the 22nd Legislative District, which includes Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater.

Bateman, a Democrat, led Iyall, also a Democrat, in the race with 70% of the vote, or 12,513 votes. Iyall had 20% or 3,653 votes.

Tela Hogle, a Democrat, trailed Bateman and Iyall with 7.15% of the vote.

Hogle said she wasnt surprised at the low numbers Tuesday night, but she is hoping to gain on Iyall as more votes come in.

The hope is I can pull ahead of Bob, and well see, Hogle said. Im not giving up hope.

Whoever ultimately wins the District 22 race in November will replace longtime legislator Sam Hunt for the four-year position. Hunt decided not to run for re-election.

Bateman has served as the 22nd Districts representative for the past four years. She told The Olympian that during that time, she has served on the Housing Committee and the Capital Budget Committee, and she has been Vice Chair of the Health Care Committee all four years.

She also has a day job as a strategic adviser for Washington Community Health Centers, which are nonprofit health care organizations that, as a network, provide care to a large percentage of Medicaid patients.

Before serving in the legislature, Bateman served as an Olympia City Council member for five years, two of those as Deputy Mayor. Prior to that, she was on the Planning Commission and the board of GRuB, the local nonprofit focused on food security and community.

Bateman said Tuesday nights preliminary results were better than even her campaign had hoped for.

Im filled with deep gratitude for our community and its support of my candidacy, Bateman said. After a little break, Im ready to get back to it and keep working for the people in the 22nd.

Iyall said he was feeling good about Tuesdays results. He said he really appreciates all those who are supporting him, and as long as he gets through the primary  there are several thousand votes left to count  hes not giving up hope.

Iyall is currently a Commissioner at the Port of Olympia, elected in 2021. He is an elder and member of the Nisqually Indian Tribe, and CEO of the Medicine Creek Enterprise Corporation, which manages the tribes for-profit businesses.

He grew up in Thurston County and graduated from Tumwater High School. He was in the building trades and is a 45-year retired member of the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers. Near the end of his career he went back to school and received his MBA.

Thurston County will post updated results daily until the county certifies the results on Aug. 20.

22nd LD House races

Incumbent Beth Doglio, a Democrat, was leading Steve Owens, who didnt state a party preference, in the primary race for Position 1 representing the 22nd Legislative District in the House of Representatives.

Doglio had 74.6% or 13,968 votes while Owens had 24.4% or 4,565 votes.

Democrats Syd Locke and Lisa Parshley are running against each other for Position 2 representing the 22nd Legislative District.

Parshley, an Olympia City Council member, was leading Locke, a legislative assistant, with 65.5% or 11,417 votes. Locke had 31% or 5,407 votes.

35th LD House Seat

The 35th Legislative District House seat, which represents Mason County and parts of Thurston and Kitsap counties, has two positions up for grabs.

Incumbent Dan Griffey, a Republican, is running unopposed for Position 1. State Rep. Travis Couture is facing a challenge from fellow Republican Eric Onisko and Democrat James DeHart in the primary race for the districts Position 2.

Early primary election results show Dan Griffey with 92.95% or 17,444 votes. He has been in office since 2015.

For Position 2, Couture narrowly led DeHart in the primary with 45.3% or 11,325 votes. DeHart had 43.72% or 10,930 votes. Onisko trailed the two with 10.85% or 2,712 votes.
Gov. Wes Moore (D) greets workers at a battery manufacturing facility in Beltsville Tuesday. Photo by Josh Kurtz.

Marylands clean-energy future  and maybe the clean-energy future of the U.S. and the entire world  is being developed in a lab in Beltsville, using battery technology that was developed just down the road at the University of Maryland.

On Tuesday afternoon, dozens of dignitaries from federal, state and local governments and from academia came to the lab to celebrate its good fortune  and its promising future.

ION Storage Systems recently won a $20 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to scale up its technology. And Gov. Wes Moore (D) said the state was kicking in another $1 million, while the Maryland Technology Development Corp., the states venture capital agency for technology, would provide another $1.5 million.

Moore called the company a Maryland original, and added, We take a great deal of pride in the fact that we can call you ours.

ION Storage Systems manufactures solid-state batteries for the defense, aerospace, medical, consumer, electric vehicle and grid-storage industries. The 5-year-old company has received a few contracts from the Defense Department, and hopes to grow exponentially in the years ahead.

What sets the companys batteries apart, said Ricky Hanna, the CEO, is that they are filled with ceramics, rather than liquid, making them smaller, lighter, cheaper, safer and more durable. The company is working to develop a domestic lithium supply chain, and plans to be an integral part of the push for expanded battery storage capabilities across the globe.

The influx of new government funding, Hanna said, will accelerate our mission to provide cutting-edge solid-state battery solutions. It also highlights Maryland as a logical and competitive landscape for other clean-energy startups.

The company had just a handful of employees when it launched; it now has about 70 and expects to reach 80 later this year. Its headquarters in Beltsville has expanded to about 40,000 square feet.

Eric Wachsman, director of the University of Marylands Energy Innovation Institute, with several of his dozens of patents. Photo by Josh Kurtz.

And the technology was largely developed at the University of Marylands Energy Innovation Institute, under the tutelage of Eric Wachsman, who runs the institute and is a co-founder and board member of the company. Wachsman is president of The Electrochemical Society, a fellow of the society and the American Ceramic Society, and a member of the World Academy of Ceramics. He said he holds 40 patents.

Moore praised Wachsman for his big bet.

The $20 million DOE grant comes from the agencys Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy program. The funds will expand ION Storage Systems capacity to manufacture next-generation solid-state lithium-metal batteries and support the commercialization of the technology into the electric vehicle market.

As Moore and other dignitaries toured the facility, he admired the technology but seemed more intent on asking company officials about workforce challenges and where their workers are coming from. Upon learning that many of the employees are University of Maryland grads, Moore said, One of the things weve found and that we really appreciate is that the pipeline is so strong.

Greg Hitz, the companys chief technology officer, said the company will be seeking more research and development firepower in the months ahead, as well as more skilled tradesmen who are familiar with concrete, window painting, wiring and you name it.

Im going to dust my resume off, Moore joked.

Minutes later, he shook hands with about half a dozen workers at the factory, asking them not just about their jobs, but where they lived, how their daily commute was, the affordability of housing, and more lifestyle questions.

The $1 million in funding the state is sending to ION Storage Systems is part of a broader $11 million package that the state is making available to support advanced manufacturing and innovation projects across the state. The administration said the money will be applied towards two programs administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce:

$4 million will support the Maryland Manufacturing 4.0 Program, which provides grants to small and mid-sized Maryland manufacturers to invest in Industry 4.0-related technologies, machinery and robotics, and digital business practices in order to remain competitive and drive growth. With this new investment, the program will have total appropriations of $5 million for fiscal 2025. Forty-nine businesses have received nearly $2 million in total grant funding through this program since it launched in 2023.

$7 million will support the Build Our Future Grant Pilot program and fund, from which the funding for ION was drawn. The program provides grants for eligible innovation infrastructure projects designed to transform and accelerate growth in key sectors including aerospace and defense, biotechnology, life sciences, quantum, and cybersecurity. Grant awards may be used to defray the cost that grantees incur to acquire, construct, rehabilitate, install, improve, or equip an eligible project. The program was created by Moores Innovation Economy Infrastructure Act of 2023. Eleven projects were funded through the programs first round of grants, announced earlier this year.

These programs are two of the sharpest and most innovative tools in Maryland Commerces toolbox, said Maryland Secretary of Commerce Kevin Anderson, one of the dozens of officials on hand Tuesday in Beltsville.

 This story was updated on Thursday, Aug. 8, to correct the number of patents held by Eric Wachsman.
MONACA  A Beaver County man was killed after being struck by a train Tuesday morning.

According to local officials, the train was traveling across the Monaca-Beaver Railroad Bridge around 12:30 a.m. when 35-year-old Jason Dick, of Beaver, was struck by the vehicle. When first responders arrived at the scene, they found that Dick had been fatally wounded during the impact, but two individuals who had been walking with him along the railroad bridge were not harmed.

Representatives for CSX, who operate the tracks along the rail bridge, told local media that Dick and the others were trespassing on the Monaca-Beaver Railroad Bridge at the time of the incident. The railroad bridge serves as a connection over the Ohio River for two sets of tracks that are located in the Bridgewater and Monaca communities.

As of Wednesday morning, it is unclear if charges will be filed against the two unnamed individuals who are accused of trespassing on the bridge.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Beaver man killed by train Tuesday on railroad bridge
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  After a dramatic campaign season, the results are in for the Johnson County Sheriff GOP Primary candidate.

According to the polls, Doug Bedford won the vote unofficially by 12%, beating Sheriff Calvin Hayden 56% to 44% (23,572 votes to 18,372 votes) in the Republican race, and solidifying a spot on the November General Election against Democratic candidate Byron K. Roberson.

The drama leading up to the Primary Election came weeks after former Johnson County Sheriff Frank Denning endorsed Bedford instead of current Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden back in July.

Sheriff Hayden has faced significant criticism for his investigation into alleged 2020 election voter fraud.

According to the Associated Press (AP), Hayden launched an investigation after the results of Johnson Countys 2020 General Election polls came in, resulting in a win from President Joe Biden and a loss from former President Donald Trump.

The theory that fraudulent voting was present at the polls largely stems from former President Donald Trumps claims that the last election was stolen from the Republican party, leading many other U.S. officials to launch their own investigations.

He also said that the county received many tips about potential irregularities in the ballot box, but no criminal charges have been filed.

Sheriff Haydens handling of the matter has received substantial backlash and national attention after he provided no legitimate pieces of evidence of any fraud or voter manipulation.

Specifically, state and local officials refute Haydens claims, insisting the election was secure and demanding that Hayden produce evidence. Since the investigation was launched over two years ago, Hayden has refused to release any details but remains adamant that the investigation is necessary.

In early July, he suspended the investigation and blamed it on Johnson Countys destruction of 2019, 2020 and 2021 ballots in February. However, a report from AP states that even though the destruction of the votes was over 17 months late, it is still in line with state law.

Although there is drama on the Republican front, the Democratic candidate, Byron K. Roberson, is strolling along into the November polls as the only nominee for the party.

Roberson announced his candidacy in November 2023 and has publicly been endorsed by four Kansas police chiefs since. He, alongside GOP challenger Bedford, have devoted their campaigns to taking over Sheriff Haydens role.

GOP Candidates

Calvin Hayden

Elected as Johnson County Sheriff in 2017, Hayden grew up in De Soto, Kan. and served in the United States Army Reserves, 159th Military Police, and the 406th Engineer Batallion.

Hayden has worked in the Johnson County Sheriffs Office for 36 years and also served as an undercover officer with the City-County Investigative Squad, a uniformed patrol officer, a dispatcher, and a firearms instructor/armorer.

His campaign centers around four main goals:

Ensuring the safety and well-being of Johnson County citizens with a transparent approach Upholding justice consistently while respecting the rule of law Safeguarding the principles outlined in the Constitution of the United States of America Striving to build upon the high professional standards of the Johnson County Sheriffs Office

Doug Bedford

Bedford served on U.S. Navy Seal Team Three and was a former Undersheriff for Johnson County. Bedford is a DeSoto native with extensive experience in law enforcement, including work with Kansas State Police, an Agent with the Kansas Alcoholic Beverage Control, and many other roles within the Johnson County Sheriffs Office.

Bedford aims to instill transparency, trust and teamwork in the Sheriffs Office and wants to strengthen relationships between the community, law enforcement and other state agencies and focus his leadership on public safety.

Democratic Candidate

Byron K. Roberson

With 30 years of experience in law enforcement, Roberson started his career serving in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve before working as an undercover narcotics officer, emergency management coordinator and SWAT team leader. He is also the first Black police chief in Prairie Village history.

Robersons campaign said he has the support of four former Johnson County police chiefs  former Lenexa Police Chiefs Ellen Hansen and Tom Hongslo, and former Merriam Police Chiefs Tim Burnett and Ben Hadley.

He aims to open the lines of communication between law enforcement and the public and hopes to partner with local departments to create a safer Johnson County. He also aims to prioritize mental health, specifically crisis intervention and de-escalation training for officers.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MADRID, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A forest fire in central Spain has burned about 2,500 hectares and remains out of control on Wednesday, and 1,500 people have been warned not to leave their homes because of the smoke.

Spanish public television reported that the fire began at noon on Tuesday in the town of La Estrella, in the province of Toledo, after an accident involving two vehicles.

As many as 160 workers are in the area attempting to extinguish the flames, assisted by troops from the Military Emergency Unit (UME).

The fire is spreading towards neighboring Extremadura due to the nature of the terrain, which is broom and scrubland, and gusts of wind.

The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) announced on Wednesday that the fourth heatwave of the summer will begin next Friday and last until Sunday or Monday.

Extreme temperatures not seen in Spain for more than 30 years are expected this summer, AEMET warned.

In July, Spain recorded 771 deaths due to extreme temperatures, 85 more than in the same month last year, according to the public Institute of Health Carlos III.

Last winter was the warmest in the country since 1961, at 1.9 degrees above average.

Spain is heavily affected by forest fires every summer. On average, some 17,000 forest fires occur, most of them smaller than 1 hectare, affecting some 114,000 hectares of forest area. 
Whats being built there? New food truck plaza, preschool and voting center

Heres the latest edition of Whats being built there? a roundup of construction projects shaping the future of the Tri-Cities.

Curious about a project? Send tips to news@tricityherald.com.

Kennewick

Banlin Construction Co. progressed on work to convert a former Kennewick fire station, 7400 W. Quinault Ave., into Benton Countys new election center in late July. The $2.3 million renovation began in early 2024.

Benton County Election Center

7400 W. Quinault Ave.

Banlin Construction Co. proceeded on a $2.3 million project to convert a former Kennewick fire station into Benton Countys new election center in late July.

Work on the project near the Benton County Justice Center near Columbia Center began earlier this year.

The project is a little more than half finished, according to Kennewick property records.

MMEC Architecture & Interiors is the designer.

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Pasco

Hogback Three Rivers LLC, a Yakima property developer, is building a 12,500-square-foot building for Davita Kidney Care at 5820 Road 68, Pasco.

DaVita Kidney Care

5820 Road 68

Hogback Three Rivers is constructing a 12,500-square-foot building for DaVita Kidney Care, according to Pasco building permits.

The project is valued at $2.2 million.

The 2.5-acre site is north of the Pasco water towers, near Take 5 Oil Change at Three Rivers Drive and North Road 68.

Summers Hub owner Chris Corbin will replicate his popular food truck plaza at 6200 Burden Blvd., Pasco, near Gesa Stadium. The Pasco City Council agreed to sell the site to Corbin for $845,000 on Aug. 5.

Summers Hub Pasco

6200 Burden Blvd.

The city of Pasco has agreed to sell a city-owned 1.4-acre parcel in front of Gesa Stadium to Chris Corbin, who intends to build a new edition of his a Summers Hub food truck plaza there.

Corbin will pay $845,000, according to a deal approved by the city council on Aug. 6.

The Pasco Summers Hub will echo its popular Kennewick sister site near Sportsmans Warehouse off Canal Drive.

Documents filed with Washington state indicate Corbin intends to build a 5,170-square-foot pavilion with restrooms and a large canopy. The site will accommodate 26 food trucks along with parking spots.

Richland

A 40,000-square-foot office building in north Richland is getting a $5.5 million makeover to create 11 individual tenant spaces within the two-story space.

Office Conversion

2940 George Washington Way

A 40,000-square-foot office building in north Richland is being renovated to create 11 individual tenant suites within its two floors.

The project includes a mix of suite sizes ranging from 775 to 3,300 square feet.

The $5.5 million project is being carried out by W McKay Construction. Bruce Baker is the architect. Julie and Justin Henning own the property.

West Richland

ABC Dino Academy

2885 Bombing Range Road

The developers behind the newest ABC Dino Academy plan to break ground Friday, Aug. 9, on a series of buildings that will house a school, as well as nursery, preschool and day care facilities.

Site work began earlier this year.

The project is being developed by Syed Amir with owner Kylee Sullivan.

It will join a network of ABC Dino facilities in Kennewick, Pasco and Richland.

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.
These are the best NJ high schools, according to US News & World Report

Eight New Jersey public high schools finished in the top 100 best in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report's rankings, recently released, for the 2024-2025 school year.

Nearly 17,660 schools were ranked on six factors  college readiness, state assessment proficiency, state assessment performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth and graduation rate  based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college.

According to the New Jersey Department of Education, the New Jersey Student Learning Assessments require high school students to be assessed in math, English, language arts and science.

The U.S. News Best High Schools rankings include data on nearly 25,000 public high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia, including New Jersey's 426 high schools.

Best high schools in New Jersey: top 10

10. Academy for Allied Health Sciences in Scotch Plains; 193 in national rankings

9. Academy for Information Technology in Scotch Plains; 111 national

8. Union County Magnet High School in Scotch Plains; 95 national

7. Bergen County Technical High School in Teterboro; 90 national

6. Dr. Ronald E McNair High School in Jersey City; 79 national

5. Biotechnology High School in Freehold; 72 national

4. Bergen County Academies in Hackensack; 62 national

3. Middlesex County Academy for Allied Health in Woodbridge; 58 national

2. Middlesex County Academy for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Technologies in Edison; 42 national

1. High Technology High School in Lincroft; 24 national

More: When's the first day of school? Here are the dates for every district in Central Jersey

Hunterdon County, NJ high schools on the list

14. Hunterdon Central Regional High School

122. North Hunterdon High School

131. Delaware Valley Regional High School

137. Hunterdon County Academies

234. South Hunterdon High School

239. Warren Hills Regional High School

Middlesex County, NJ high schools on the list

2. Middlesex County Academy for Science, Mathematics and Engineering Technologies

3. Middlesex County Academy for Allied Health

17. West Windsor-Plainsboro High School North

27. John P. Stevens High School

47. Metuchen High School

60. South Brunswick High School

96. Highland Park High School

115. East Brunswick High School

117. Piscataway High School

126. Monroe High School

127. South Plainfield High School

129. Edison High School

144. Dunellen High School

195. John F. Kennedy Memorial High School

196. Middlesex High School

197. Spotswood High School

202. East Brunswick Magnet School

205. Old Bridge High School

206. North Brunswick High School

207. Sayreville War Memorial High School

223. Colonia High School

243. Middlesex County Vocational School Perth Amboy

257. Perth Amboy High School

278 . South Amboy Middle/High School

301 . Woodbridge High School

306 . Carteret High School

324. New Brunswick High School

349-406. Academy for Urban Leadership Charter School

349-406 . Middlesex County Vocational School

349-406. South River High School

Somerset County, NJ high schools on the list

25. Ridge High School

26. Central Jersey College Prep Charter School

30. Montgomery High School

59. Bernards High School

61. Hillsborough High School

81. Watchung Hills Regional High School

108. Bridgewater-Raritan Regional High School

157. Somerville High School

185. Franklin High School

246. Manville High School

259. North Plainfield High School

265. Bound Brook High School

285. Somerset County Vocational Technical High School

Union County, NJ high schools on the list

8. Union County Magnet High School

9. Academy for Information Technology

10. Academy for Allied Health Sciences

18. Union County Tech

29. Summit High School

40. Westfield High School

41. New Providence High School

70. Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School

90. Governor Livingston High School

118. College Achieve Central Charter School

135. Academy for Performing Arts

136. Plainfield Academy for the Arts and Advanced Studies

249. The Barack Obama Green Charter High School

271. Linden High School

296. Rahway High School

303. David Brearley Middle/High School

349-406 . Plainfield High School

349-406 . Union County Teams Charter School

Unranked: The Queen City Academy Charter School

email: cmakin@gannettnj.com

Cheryl Makin is an award-winning features and education reporter for MyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: Cmakin@gannettnj.com or @CherylMakin. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Best high schools in NJ: High Technology in Lincroft top in New Jersey
In South Africa's Eastern Cape, white rhinos roam freely in the grounds of Samara Karoo, a private wildlife reserve and safari lodge. Photograph by Mitch Reardon, Samara Karoo Reserve

This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).

My fourth day on safari in Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, starts much like any other. First, theres the welcome jolt of a pre-dawn alarm. I splash cold water on my face, gulp down some coffee and get ready. Outside my cabin, the tetchy crowing of hadada ibises is met by thunder overhead: baboons, charging across the roof, onto the deck and away. Nyala antelopes gaze out from the sand forest as I join my group and, together, we pad through the half-light to our open-topped safari vehicle. So far, so normal. But soon, normality will recede, and something extraordinary will take its place.

The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park in KwaZulu-Natal is made up of 12 protected areas, having been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Photograph by Alamy

Were about to join a team of rhino experts in the field, so its essential that were up and out early, while its still cool. Theres a slight mist in the air, and the forests giant Lebombo wattle trees loom like ghosts over the track. Emerging into open grassland dotted with shrubs, our guide pulls up at our meeting place. Phinda is part of Munywana Conservancy, a stronghold for rhinos, and this morning we have the privilege of encountering some of the people charged with saving them from harm.

Munywanas elite team of wildlife vets, ecologists and conservationists never wished to find themselves on the frontline of a war on poaching, but thats whats come to pass. In early 2024, Barbara Creecy, South Africas environment minister, confirmed that rhino poachings global epicentre had shifted from South Africas Kruger National Park to KwaZulu-Natal, with annual losses up 10% in 2023.

Despite campaigns trying to devalue rhino horn as a status symbol in parts of East Asia and debunk the myth that it has medicinal value, theres not much sign of the black market collapsing. Faced with this bleak reality, AndBeyond, the conservation tourism company thats managed Phinda since 1991, is doing everything in its power to safeguard its rhinos. In this beautiful reserve  a former pineapple plantation, painstakingly rewilded  every rhino helps keep the ecosystem in balance.

In KwaZulu-Natal, safari jeeps enable travellers to see prides of lions up close and in the wild. Photograph by Carolyn Eaton, Alamy

Eyes on the ground are important, so every tourist has a part to play. AndBeyond does far more than just offering wildlife watching drives. It uses technology to monitor each of the reserves rhinos, requires its staff to have exceptionally high integrity and recruits local community members as intelligence gathers, security guards and tracker dog handlers, specifically to keep poachers at bay.

Conservancy warden Dale Wepener explains the operation that were to witness this morning. Running a reserve has become a bit like shark cage diving, he says. You have to be well resourced, well organised and well prepared. Because if theres a break in the cage, they  the criminals  will be in.

Crucially and somewhat controversially, as a deterrent, Munywana Conservancy surgically removes the horns of each of its rhinos once they reach young adulthood.

Deciding we had to remove our rhinos horns wasnt easy, but its quick, its painless and its worth it, says Dale. In the current climate, de-horning a rhino gives it a 96% higher chance of survival to old age. The reserves chief wildlife vet takes great care to sedate the rhinos before proceeding; poachers, by contrast, would simply kill them.

Briefing complete, the team take up their positions. Their target is a young male black rhino, singled out the day before. From the moment he sinks to his knees in the long grass  expertly darted from a helicopter  every second counts. This youngster has never been microchipped, blood-tested, measured, ID-marked and de-horned before, and theres much to do.

Rushing to the scene in a fleet of 4WD vehicles, the team springs into action. Quickly and calmly, they check that the morphine-based sedative has taken hold, then shift the rhino into a comfortable position, inviting us forward to watch. Next, they soothe his senses with improvised ear plugs  a pair of loosely stuffed socks  and a soft eye bandage. Somebody steps forward with a jerrycan of cool water, and gently soaks his back.

Amid the flurry comes the whirr of the chainsaw and the scent of horn shavings: musty, like toenail clippings on a hot day. Quick as a flash, an ecologist stashes the horn for safekeeping; its destined for AndBeyonds vault. Just as important, but just as hard to witness, is the clip of the ear-notcher, marking out a combination that spells out the youngsters new ID number.

Munywana Conservancy surgically remove the horns of rhinos once they reach young adulthood for a greater chance of survival. Photograph by Martin Harvey, Getty Images

Encouraged to step even closer, I give the rhinos warm, dusty shoulders a tender rub, feeling a knot of emotions inside. Ive been lucky enough to see rhinos many times on my visits to South Africa, but nothing can compare to this. Drastic though todays interventions seem, Im convinced itll help protect the youngster from harm. And later, as we watch him scurry back to his mother, I feel hope blossom that here at least, Im witnessing a black rhino destined for a long life.

Published in the Middle East & Africa Collection 2024, distributed with the August 2024 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).



To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
The Biden administration is doling out a second round of funding for energy efficient heating systems, again using its wartime authority in the fight against climate change.

The Department of Energy is putting $85 million to accelerate the production of heat pumps under the Defense Production Act, it first told The Hill.

Heat pumps are a more energy efficient alternative to air conditioners and furnaces. They work by transferring heat instead of generating it  moving heat from outside indoors during the winter and moving heat from inside during the summer.

The funds will go to five facilities in New York, Tennessee, Texas and Rhode Island. The administration said the move is expected to create more than 500 jobs, nearly half of which will be in disadvantaged communities.

The Defense Production Act gives the president the authority to mobilize a certain industry to advance national security.

A spokesperson for the Energy Department said the Democrats 2022 climate, tax and health care bill gave the department $500 million for use under the law, which the $85 million comes from.

As communities across the country continue to face down the impacts of climate-fueled extreme weather events, investing in American-made heat pump manufacturing will help keep families safe and comfortable in their homes, schools, and businesses and cut their energy cost, said White House National Climate adviser Ali Zaidi in a statement.

Todays investments, levering the authorities in the Defense Production Act, harness the power of American innovation to jumpstart critical clean energy manufacturing capacity and to protect our families, our economy, and our planet.

The investments are expected to enable the manufacture of an additional 155,000 residential heat pumps, 440,000 residential water heaters, 2,000 school heat pumps, 120 industrial water heaters and 20,000 additional heat pump components.

The money announced Wednesday will go to facilities owned by: Daikin Comfort Technologies North America Inc., A. O. Smith, Modine Manufacturing Company and BITZER Scroll Inc.

The funds are in addition to an additional $169 million that bolstered heat pump manufacturing under the Defense Production Act last year.

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A section of Comb Ridge in Bears Ears National Monument is pictured on May 9, 2018. (Kyle Dunphey/Utah News Dispatch)

Attorneys for the Biden administration called Utah and Wyomings legal challenge of a new public land policy entirely unfounded and speculative in a court filing last week, the latest in a new legal battle over how the federal government manages land in the West.

Both states sued the U.S. Department of Interior in June for its new Public Lands Rule, which allows the Bureau of Land Management to offer conservation leases on its land. In July, Wyoming and Utah asked the court for a preliminary injunction, which would put the rule on hold while the lawsuit plays out.

Attorneys for the federal government responded to the request on July 30, asking the court to deny the injunction and accusing the states of providing no credible basis for their argument.

In short, the federal government argued Wyoming and Utah did not provide enough evidence to suggest the rule is so harmful that the court should immediately halt it.

The rule took effect on June 10 and opened the door for conservation leases, similar to how the BLM leases its land for mineral extraction, energy development, recreation or grazing. Now, groups can purchase a restoration lease, intended to improve habitats and restore or conserve land, or and a mitigation lease, aimed at offsetting existing development and projects on BLM land.

But Utah and Wyoming, in their lawsuit filed in federal court in Utahs Central Division, accused the BLM of having an unreasonable interpretation of federal guidelines that ultimately allowed the agency to forgo an environmental impact statement typically required under the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA.

The lawsuit also claimed the BLM ignored concerns from the state of Utah, Wyoming politicians, mining and solar companies, and more during the public comment period.

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In their motion asking the court to halt the rule, both Utah and Wyoming warned they would suffer if the BLM moves forward and issues conservation leases  both states would have to divert resources and their environmental interests would be irreparably injured, court documents read.

The conservation leases would promote passive management, the states warn, which can lead to degraded landscapes, proliferation of noxious weeds, and a heightened risk of catastrophic wildfires.

In response, attorneys for the BLM wrote that the rule does not impose any new regulatory obligations on third parties, affect any existing authorizations to use the public lands, or elevate conservation use above other allowable uses of federal lands.

Plaintiffs claims that the Rule will cause imminent irreparable environmental harm are therefore entirely unfounded, court documents read.

Plus, the federal government argues, the rule will actually help the very environmental protection goals that Plaintiffs claim will be impaired.

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced over 2 million in planning grants to Oklahoma City. The announcement comes on the heels of the Biden-Harris Administrations Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is set to create a pipeline of construction-ready bridge projects in Oklahoma.

The grants according to the White House are two of 28 total projects receiving funding across 18 states. Oklahomas program called the Federal Highway Administrations (FHWA) competitive Bridge Investment Program will fund the early phases of project development for 14 bridges across the city, creating a pipeline of future bridge construction projects to improve safety which includes making make highway infrastructure more resilient to the effects of climate change.

Former Pottawatomie County Deputy arrested

The grants awarded to Oklahoma include:

Oklahoma City will receive $1.5 million for a Planning and Environmental Linkages study for the full reconstruction of six bridges in West Oklahoma City that are in poor condition.

Oklahoma City will receive $666,000 for a Planning and Environmental Linkages study for eight bridges along Lightening Creek that are in fair or poor condition and are recommended for full replacement.

The planning grants announced today will help Oklahoma prepare critical bridge projects for restoration or replacement before they fall into a state of disrepair, said Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt. By making historic investments in bridge projects that serve as a vital transportation link in communities nationwide, the Biden-Harris administration is supporting local economies, strengthening supply chains, and promoting resilience and safety in transportation.

The full list of awards can be found here on the FHWA website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
A Jersey City mayoral aide lost his job after helping his sister's hate-filled campaign to be Missouri's secretary of state. Boo-hoo. (Edwin J. Torres/ Governors Office)

Praise gay Jesus, Valentina Gomez has fallen.

Gomez, whose quest to become Missouris new secretary of state centered around saying nasty things about Black and queer people, bombed at the polls Tuesday, coming in sixth in the states GOP primary and not cracking 8% of the vote.

Yes, Gomezs viral campaign videos, which featured language that would make all but the most virulent homophobe cringe, seemed largely performative, and there appeared to be no chance she could actually win the primary, let alone the general election. But at a time when powerful forces are itching to make same-sex marriage illegal again and politicians nationwide are vowing to look up girls skirts when theyre too good at sports, we queer folks have to celebrate wins when we get them. And Gomezs campaign bellyflop is 100% a win.

This Missouri bigot became a hot topic in New Jersey political circles because of her brother Jonathan, who was an aide to Steve Fulop, the Democratic mayor of Jersey City and a 2025 gubernatorial hopeful. Jonathan Gomez gave his sisters campaign some dough, leading to outcry from the citys queer community because he sat on Jersey Citys LGBTQ+ task force. Thats not generally a role you want someone to have if theyre simultaneously supporting a political candidate who proudly uses a common gay slur in campaign videos.

I spoke to a Jersey City woman named Megan Ixim, who helped lead the campaign to get Jonathan Gomez off the task force. Ixim told me she generally believes that you cant hold someone accountable for the actions of their family members, but she noted that Gomezs donations to his sisters campaign came as recently as July, well after Valentina Gomez posted a campaign video urging people not to be weak and gay.

That, to me, is a clear representation that Jonathan is not only supportive of his sister but agrees with her ideology, Ixim told me.

Another Jersey City woman, Kayla Burell, told me if Jonathan Gomez were an actual ally to the queer community, he would understand the message he was sending by financially supporting his sisters campaign.

You can still love your family member and be interested in their lives and go to the things that are important to them without abandoning your values, she said. Shes advocating for the end of our existence in some of these videos.

Jersey City is terminating Jonathan Gomez, which Fulop posted on social media Tuesday. The mayor told me Gomez worked on a lot of diversity and inclusion matters, and his involvement in his sisters campaign makes it impossible for him to do his work.

Beyond obviously the disagreements philosophically, ethically, morally, he doesnt have the ability to do a job anymore because none of the people would trust him, Fulop said.

The mayors decision to ax Jonathan Gomez from the citys payroll led to complaints from critics who say he violated Gomezs free speech rights (Valentina Gomez, before her campaign tanked Tuesday, promised a huge lawsuit). But labor attorney Nancy Erika Smith said free speech concerns are not at play for some political appointees. Policy-making employees hired by an elected official can be fired if their views dont align with the officials administration, Smith said. Thats why you see new governors enter office and fire their predecessors aides without wrongful termination lawsuits.

It gets around the First Amendment because its balancing the will of the voters. We voted this mayor in and we wanted him to reflect our values and his policies and if you have someone in there working against those policies, youre actually thwarting the will of the voters, she said.

Labor attorney Andrew Dwyer, who mostly represents people who allege they are victims of workplace harassment, discrimination, and retaliation, said his understanding is that, generally speaking, if someone is a political appointee and takes a position that is contrary to their boss, they can be fired.

What if, for example, it turned out somebody was a member of the Klan? I think the mayor would be able to say, Im not going to have a member of the Klan in my administration. My guess is this is probably lawful, he said.

Jonathan Gomez wasnt a civil servant or a whistle-blower alleging public corruption. He was a political appointee, the kind of job that means you advance the goals of the administration that hired you. No tears deserve to be shed here. Perhaps he can find a job with an administration that doesnt mind if he stumps for a candidate who hurls vile slurs at the queer community.

As for Valentina Gomez, Im sure we havent heard the last of her. But hopefully shell stay away from election ballots and stick to places like TikTok, where anyone not following her can easily ignore her.

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Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes speaks at a panel discussion Tuesday on restoring trust in elections. Barnes, a Democrat, joined, from left, Republicans Scott Klug and J.B. Van Hollen, along with pollster Dave Sackett, in discussing the work of the bipartisan Democracy Defense Project. (Baylor Spears | Wisconsin Examiner)

Wisconsin leaders of the Democracy Defense Project considered ways to improve voter confidence in elections  and the potential for a repeat of the denial that cast a shadow over the 2020 election  during a WisPolitics panel discussion Tuesday.

Organizers of the bipartisan group, which launched in June, say they want to rebuild trust in the electoral system and defend the democratic process. The organization is targeting battleground states including Wisconsin, Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, New Hampshire, Ohio and Pennsylvania, to foster greater confidence in election outcomes, improve voter participation and move beyond polarizing rhetoric and lies.

Two Republicans, former Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen and former U.S. Rep. Scott Klug, and two Democrats, former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and former Wisconsin Democratic State Party Chair Mike Tate, lead the organization in Wisconsin.

Van Hollen, Klug and Barnes offered varied takes on the prospect for a repeat of the questions and misinformation that surrounded the 2020 election, when then-President Donald Trump made unfounded claims of voter fraud after losing Wisconsin and unsuccessfully tried to decertify Joe Bidens victory. (Tate didnt participate in the panel on Tuesday.)

Van Hollen, who served as the state AG from 2007 until 2015, said social media and Trump have amplified accusations of voter fraud, pounding this drum, beating it to death for the last four years.

But Van Hollen said he didnt think those claims would cause problems in the election this November  because he expects Trump, once again the Republican nominee for president, to win.

No, Van Hollen said in response to a question about whether there will be a repeat of the last elections controversy. I really believe Trumps gonna win, and I believe that based on that, hes not gonna be screaming about voter fraud, and hes the voice of voter fraud out there.

Klug said he doesnt expect it to be that simple. The election results will likely be perilously close, Klug said, describing himself as uncertain about his vote and suggesting that a solid chunk of independent voters feel similarly.

Barnes said that the country doesnt have to be doomed to repeat this cycle. He said elected officials play a role, especially at the county level where elections are administered.

Thats the tough part because, as has been the case since 2016, Republican elected officials who dared go against Donald Trump did so at the expense of their own political career, Barnes said. For a lot of people theyre going to have to answer that question: Whats more important, democracy or my political career?

Despite their conflicting expectations of how people will react to the November election results, the former elected officials were united in their thoughts about wanting to better inform voters about election integrity  a term that the participants never defined.

Barnes, who narrowly lost his campaign to unseat Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson in 2022, said that he joined the Democracy Defense Project because democracy and the right to vote are important issues to him. Questioning election results delegitimizes the entire system, and it makes it that much harder for democracy to function, and it also discourages voting, Barnes said, adding that he wants to be part of any effort to address election integrity.

Klug pointed out that concerns about elections have existed throughout history. He recalled the consternation over the Florida recount in the 2000 presidential election contest between George Bush and Al Gore. Klug said that changes enacted in some states in response to that election have led to problems themselves, including video streaming of ballot counting.

One of the recommendations  now largely adopted all over the map, were to put cameras in counting centers, but heres the problem, theres no play by playing, Klug said. So, youre watching this and [someone] takes one box and puts it over there and now, people are using this as evidence of a vast conspiracy.

Van Hollen said he wants to assure voters that their votes will count.

Theres one category where I dont believe much if any voter fraud exists at all and thats losing legally cast ballots. If you vote, your vote is going to count. I can almost guarantee you, Van Hollen said. The uncertainty about whether ones vote will count can discourage people from voting, he added.

I think its really important for us to get the message to the general public that no matter what you may believe, no matter what concerns you may have, the surest way, to make sure that your candidate gets elected in a rigged or unrigged election or fraudulent, or non-fraudulent election is to vote for that candidate, Van Hollen said.

In a survey conducted for the Democracy Defense Project of about 600 likely Wisconsin voters, 48% of respondents said they were very confident that votes will be accurately cast in the 2024 election  more than in the national survey, in which just 42% of voters said they were very confident.

There are one out of four people who are going to cast a vote in this election in 2024 who right now are not confident that were going to be accurately passed and counted, said Dave Sackett, a pollster for the Tarrance Group.

Sackett identified policies that he said could help improve peoples confidence in elections, though he noted that many of them are already in use.

If youre not an election worker, if youre not an elected official, if youre not county registrar, you dont know these things exist, so this is all going to be new information Sackett said.

In the survey, 82% of likely voters said they favored requiring voter identification to make sure only American citizens can vote and can only cast one ballot.

A voter ID requirement is already in place in Wisconsin. But Sackett said going back to people and saying, Look youre an idiot. Stop worrying. Weve already done this is the wrong approach.

Instead, he suggested reassuring voters by presenting this all as part of a new fresh package and say[ing], Were worried about election integrity too, and were going to take all these steps together to help improve [it]  whether its something thats already being done or not.

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Wide view of a children's classroom at a school. Red, yellow and blue chairs arranged on the tables, white board and other school equipment.

The Alabama Public Charter School Commission conditionally approved Birmingham's Freedom Prep Charter School after reducing enrollment targets. (Carbonero Stock via Getty Images)

A proposed charter school in Birmingham won conditional approval Tuesday to begin operations.

The Alabama Public Charter School Commission voted to extend the approval after reducing Freedom Prep Charter Schools enrollment targets and extending a deadline to meet them.

Roblin J. Webb, Freedom Preps CEO and founder, requested to adjust enrollment to 75 kindergarten students for the 2024-25 school year, down from 80 required by contract. There are 56 students currently enrolled.

We want to make sure everyone understands that we have full transparency in anything that you all ask, Webb said to the commission.

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Freedom Preparatory Academy Charter Schools is based in Memphis, where it operates five schools. According to its website, it aims to provide college preparation. The Birmingham school would be its first location in Alabama.

The commission granted the request and extended the deadline to reach the enrollment target to Sept. 3.

But during the meeting, commission members expressed concerns about the schools ability to meet enrollment and cover potential financial shortfalls. Members asked whether the school could be financially stable with a lower threshold for enrolled students.

Each student generates approximately $7,500 in school funding from the state, according to Logan Searcy, executive director of the commission. Commissioners wanted to ensure that Freedom Prep could maintain educational standards even if enrollment numbers fell short.

Webb said Freedom Prep provided financial documents, including an Alabama bank account statement, and told the commission they are ready to cover any shortfall.

The commission emphasized the importance of ensuring that students have access to all necessary resources to receive a high-quality education.

Freedom Prep in Birmingham missed its enrollment deadline for the upcoming school year on July 15. The commission had previously approved changes to the schools charter contract, including adjustments to the enrollment plan and facilities. The school had 50 students enrolled, falling short of the required 80 students needed by the July deadline.



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BERLIN, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Germany's foreign trade surplus shrank in June, with exports dropping by 3.4 percent and imports increasing by 0.3 percent compared to the previous month, the Federal Statistical Office reported on Wednesday.

In June, Germany's exports amounted to 127.7 billion euros (139.2 billion U.S. dollars). This represents a 4.4-percent decrease compared to the same month last year, according to the report. Exports to the United States, a key trading partner, fell by 7.7 percent month-on-month, following a 2.9-percent decline in May. In contrast, exports to China increased by 3.4 percent.

The drop in exports is in line with the forecast of the ifo Institute for Economic Research, which predicted a slight downturn in sentiment within the German export sector at the end of June. The ifo indicator for export expectations decreased from 0.2 point to minus 1 point in June.

"No clear direction is currently emerging," ifo expert Klaus Wohlrabe said, emphasizing that the German export sector still requires significant improvement.

In June, China continued to be Germany's largest supplier, with goods worth 12.3 billion euros, despite a 4.9-percent decrease from the previous month. Meanwhile, imports from the United States declined by 7.4 percent, while those from the United Kingdom increased by 11.1 percent. (1 euro = 1.09 U.S. dollars) 
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)  The Birmingham Police Department is asking for the publics help locating a missing 65-year-old woman.

Hoover head football coach Drew Gilmer placed on administrative leave weeks ahead of season opener

Police said Denise Gee-Hundley was last seen on August 4 in the Titusville area. Gee-Hundley is 52 and 116 pounds.

Anyone with information is asked to call Birmingham Police Department at 205-328-9311.

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For Black Americans, higher police pay doesnt always mean fewer violent confrontations as it does for other racial groups

Police unions have come under fire following recent police killings of Black Americans. For the most part, the unions work to improve pay and job conditions for police. But some critics say these police union contracts cost cities too much and make it hard to hold officers accountable.

Our new study with fellow Georgia State University researchers adds a troubling finding to this debate: As officers pay went up in cities with police unions, more Black Americans died from police actions. This phenomenon didnt happen for white Americans.

We examined 282 U.S. city police departments from 2000 to 2013. Of these agencies, about 74% permitted collective bargaining.

We found that when officers get paid more, people die at lower rates during police encounters in general. But in cities with police unions, this was true only for white people. As officer salaries increased, the death rate for Black people from police actions also rose slightly.

A question of accountability

Higher salaries can attract more professional officers who avoid reckless behaviors, such as jumping in front of fleeing cars and then using force out of fear of being struck. Instead, theyre likely to use safer strategies, not necessarily out of compassion but to keep their jobs.

Strong job protections from collective bargaining, however, can make some officers less worried about consequences. This might explain why better pay didnt benefit Black people encountering unionized police forces.

Union agreements often include rules that delay questioning officers after incidents or let disciplinary records be hidden or erased. Even after being terminated, problem officers are often rehired through arbitration.

The parents of Michael Brown  Lesley McSpadden, second from left, and Michael Brown Sr., center  march in a protest for their son on Aug. 30, 2014, in Ferguson, Mo. Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Images

Such protections undermine accountability and may embolden some officers to use force more readily, especially against Black citizens.

High-profile cases such as George Floyd in Minneapolis and Laquan McDonald and Sonya Massey in Illinois highlight the consequences of officers with troubling records staying on the job.

The officers who killed them had records of misconduct but faced little discipline.

A cycle of violence

Our findings suggest there is also a long history of distrust between law enforcement and Black communities.

Police unions often publicly oppose changes to make policing more open and accountable. This pushback only deepens the mistrust and fear on both sides, raising the risk of aggression and violent confrontations.

Our data also shows that when police pay goes up in unionized settings, so do attacks on officers. This points to a dangerous cycle of violence and community resistance.

As criminologists, including one former cop, we recognize the important role of police unions and the challenges officers face. But our findings suggest that some union protections may be going too far and endangering both Black lives and officers.

Restoring trust

While most police-caused fatalities are considered legal, and less than 0.002% of police-citizen encounters end in death, Black Americans are more likely than other groups to be the victims.

Each death deeply hurts Black communities, perpetuating cycles of grief, anger and distrust in law enforcement. Numerous studies show these deaths stoke a pervasive fear among Black people that they or their loved ones could be the next victim of police violence.

Restoring trust requires, we believe, rethinking union contracts.

While intended to protect officers labor rights, union agreements sometimes result in unchecked authority in policing. In our view, governments should pay officers competitive wages and treat them fairly, but also hold them responsible for their actions.

This means making union negotiations public, keeping records of serious misconduct and investigating problems quickly and justly. Police departments should also focus on training officers to do better, not just punishing them after the fact. This training should teach officers how to deescalate, be aware of their own biases and respect different cultures.

Despite differences across jurisdictions, police pay has been rising in most places. In addition, the number of police jobs is increasing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 3% increase in the number of police jobs from 2022 to 2032, from 808,700 to 832,500.

With over half of the nations officers in unions and most states allowing collective bargaining, this projection underscores the urgency of improving accountability among union-backed police forces.

Change is coming

As the police workforce grows, and with many officers joining unions, its crucial to ensure theyre serving communities properly. The nation cannot just give officers more money and power without making sure theyre wielding it responsibly.

There is some good news. The National Fraternal Order of Police, the nations largest police union with 356,000 members, has said its ready to talk about reform.

Patrick Yoes, president of the National Fraternal Order of Police, testifies before Congress on July 23, 2024. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

In his 2020 statement before the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary, National Fraternal Order of Police President Patrick Yoes said his group stands ready to work with anyone, speak with anyone and cooperate with anyone who genuinely wants to work collectively, in a fact-based way, to improve policing in our country.

States are taking actions too. Legislators in Colorado and Oregon passed laws making it easier to punish abusive officers. Further, new union contracts in cities such as Boston raised police salaries while eliminating officers ability to contest disciplinary actions for serious offenses.

Achieving meaningful change while protecting officers labor rights requires tough compromises and strong leadership. Reforming police union contracts wont fix everything. But its a crucial step toward cultivating police forces that are more accountable, less deadly and fair to everyone.

It wont be easy, but we believe its necessary to keep communities and police safe.

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: Thaddeus L. Johnson, Georgia State University and Natasha N. Johnson, Georgia State University

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Thaddeus L. Johnson is affiliated with the Council on Criminal Justice.

Natasha N. Johnson 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.
NEW YORK  One of the robbers who stuck up Brooklyn Bling Bishop Lamor Whitehead gleefully reenacted the caught-on-video heist to his buddies  and his attempt to blame the crooked man of cloth for the crime is despicable, prosecutors said.

Say-Quan Pollack, 25, whose lawyer said in a court filing that he should get leniency because Whitehead is a convicted fraudster, waved around the bishops stolen bling in a Brooklyn apartment building, according to a court filing Tuesday.

Pollack and his accomplices met with some associates in an apartment building lobby shortly after the July 2022 robbery, prosecutors said.

There, Pollack appeared to gleefully reenact part of the robbery and then displayed what appears to be a diamond ring to others, Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Schuman wrote Tuesday, asking Brooklyn Federal Court Judge William Kuntz sentence him to more than seven years in prison.

Pollacks lawyer, Gary Villanueva, made an issue of Whiteheads March conviction in his plea for leniency, describing the bishops crimes as factors which the Court may consider in fashioning a reasonable sentence.

Schuman blasted that argument on Tuesday, and said Pollack has offered no apology for the robbery.

Rather, he instead spends much of his submission casting aspersions against one of the victims ... as if the victims unrelated criminal conviction somehow justifies Pollacks decision to target members of the clergy and commit an armed robbery in a sacred space during a religious service, she wrote. The Court should disregard Pollacks despicable attempt to shift blame to one of the victims.

Whitehead, who counts New York Mayor Eric Adams as a personal mentor, is serving a nine-year prison sentence after his March conviction in Manhattan Federal Court of $6 million in loan frauds, of fleecing a parishioner out of her $90,000 life savings, and of lying about his ties to Adams to extort and try to defraud a Bronx body shop owner in a real estate deal.

Whitehead was preaching at Leaders of Tomorrow International Ministry in Canarsie on July 24, 2022, when Pollack, Juwan Anderson and Shamar Leggette barged in. They forced the bishop to the floor and stole his pricey jewelry as his parishioners and his wife, who was holding their baby daughter in her hand, watched in horror.

Anderson, who also took a plea deal, is awaiting sentencing, while Leggette was killed in a January shootout with cops and U.S. Marshals.

_____
"It's in my blood, I can't do otherwise": the story of a policewoman who survived combat action in Mariupol and Bakhmut

Staff Sergeant Alina, alias Subaru, joined the ranks of the National Polices Storm Battalion in 2019. She witnessed the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion in Mariupol and later helped evacuate injured people from Bakhmut and other settlements in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

Source: Ukraines Ministry of Internal Affairs has told Alinas story.

Details: Prior to 2014, Alina studied medicine and worked as a nurse.

Later, Alina was inspired to join the National Police by the example of her uncle and brother. She chose to work at the dog training centre in Odesa Oblast because, as she admits, she loves dogs.

"After several years of service as a dog handler, in 2019, Alina joined the special forces of the Odesa-based Storm unit. And since then, she has been constantly travelling on rotation to Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts," the Interior Ministry said.

Alina recalls being in Mariupol during the early days of the full-scale invasion.

"Going back home was my first thought at the time. What we saw there was very hard [to deal with]. But we survived, we managed, we came back," the defender said, sharing her memories.

Alina checked cars at checkpoints with her colleagues in Mariupol and later performed similar duties in Bakhmut.

"Sometimes wed help to pull people out from under the rubble and evacuate them to safer cities," she says.

Alina's medical training and previous work experience came in handy, as during her service she sometimes had to provide first aid  bandaging wounds and transporting injured people to safer places.

"The scariest thing was to see how quiet and peaceful it had been, and how everything changed in the blink of an eye. People running, grabbing their children, driving away in their cars, dying. It was so hard for me, as a mother, to watch this," Subaru recalls with tears in her eyes.

Alina has a mother, two brothers, a daughter and three Cane Corso dogs waiting for her at home. The defender says that she always feels supported by her daughter, who was sometimes unable to conceal her anxiety during phone calls while her mother was in Bakhmut.

"When I was in Bakhmut, she [Alina's daughter  ed.)] would call me, crying. Id say, Hey, don't upset me, but she knows what I do [for a living]. My daughter is great," Alina says.

When asked about her dreams, Alina says she wants Ukrainian children to be spared the horrors of war and for Ukrainian defenders not to die. Alina herself plans to continue serving in the unit, but she is upfront about wanting to "have a little rest" first.

"Ive been at war since 2019. Its sucked me in. I believe we have to protect our country, our children, and our parents, so I will fight to the last.

I guess it's in my blood, I can't do otherwise," Subaru says.

Earlier, UP.Zhyttia told the story of Vitalii, a border guard from the Sea Guard who returned to duty after 20 months in Russian captivity.

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NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY)  Congressman Bobby Scott is expected to invite $1 million to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank on Wednesday.

The funding was secured as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2024. The funding is to be used to expand cold storage capacity for produce and lean meats. With the funding, the Foodbank is estimated to serve more than 61,000 individuals.

Scott is expected to be joined by Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck and Vice Mayor Jimmy Gray. The check with be delivered to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank on 2401 Aluminum Avenue.

Continue to check WAVY.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 WAVY.com.
Body of 5-Year-Old Boy Who Wandered Away from His Birthday Party Believed to Have Been Found in Canal

"Sadly, this is not the outcome we were all hoping for. Our hearts go out to Matthew's family," Boise Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer said in a statement

Boise Police Department Matthew Glynn

The body of a missing Idaho boy, who wandered off during his birthday party, has been found, according to police.

The Boise Police Department announced on Facebook on Tuesday, Aug. 6, that search crews 'believe' they located the body of 5-year-old Matthew Glynn  who had been reported missing the day before  deceased in the water approximately half a mile north of the street where his home was located.

"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 the department's statement.

Glynn was reported missing at around 5:25 p.m. local time on Aug. 5, after he walked away from home near Alamosa and State Street, police said. In an X (formerly Twitter) post about his disappearance, investigators noted that he was wearing gray Batman pajamas when he went missing and was nonverbal. Police stated that Glynn was celebrating his birthday at a party at the time of the disappearance, according to Fox 13, KTVB and USA Today.

Boise Police Department Matthew Glynn

Related: Missing Teen with Autism Found at New Mexico Walmart, About 200 Miles from Arizona Home

Following his disappearance, Boise Police, Boise Fire and Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue launched a search effort to find the boy using drones, K9s and UTVs  which played the song "Wheels on the Bus" to attract Glynn, Ron Christensen with Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue told ABC News.

"When you have an autistic subject that's nonverbal, they tend to exhibit preferences and behaviors that are potentially a little bit more predictable," Boise Police Department Chief Ron Winegar said in a news conference, per KTVB. "So, we employed some of those strategies that we had been given."

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Police noted that they covered the canals, river and other areas near the home in their search. Detectives with the Ada County Child Abduction Response Team also searched door to door in the area where Glynn went missing.

The water was initially our biggest concern and a large focus of our efforts, Winegar said in a statement. We are heartbroken over this development today.

Police said the Ada County Coroners Office is working to make an official identification of the body found and the investigation is ongoing.

Related: Missing Boy with Autism Found Using Bracelet with GPS Signal: 'I Couldn't Be More Thankful'

At this point [we do] not have [any] indication of foul play [or] any indication there was anything other than a tragic accident, Winegar said in a press conference, according to KIVI-TV.

The boys mother told KTVB that she was heartbroken at the news of her sons death and is still trying to process what happened.



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Read the original article on People.
FILE - Bolivian President Luis Arce addresses an assembly of farm workers from the Confederation of Intercultural People of Bolivia in La Paz, Bolivia, Oct. 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Juan Karita, File)

LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP)  Bolivia's socialist President Luis Arce said Tuesday national referenda would be held soon on the removal of politically combustible fuel subsidies and on the constitutionality of presidential reelections, offering for the first time a concrete path out of the country's economic morass and political limbo.

Arce did not give a date for the votes in his speech from Sucre, the southern historical capital, as Bolivia marked the 199th anniversary of its independence. He defended the referenda proposal as a way to dispel some of the uncertainty Bolivians have endured for months, promising that the populist gesture wasn't about electoral calculations or personal ambitions.

It's time for the people, together with their government, to choose the path we wish to follow in view of the bicentennial, Arce said.

A plan to vote on the elimination of fuel subsidies comes as incensed truckers and other protesters have blockaded roads leading to Bolivian cities in recent weeks over the scarcity of diesel, which is more than 80% imported. Fuel shipments from Bolivia's key ally Russia were stranded by a rainstorm last week at a Chilean port, adding to pressures on Arce's administration.

The government has nearly gone bankrupt importing and heavily subsidizing fuel. Bolivia would need $10 million a day to keep importing gasoline at international prices, selling it at half the price and remaining solvent, energy analyst Raul Velasquez said.

Without exporting natural gas anymore  once the mainstay of its booming economy  Bolivia is burning through its foreign currency reserves.

But curtailing the long-established subsidies risks triggering catastrophic price shocks  and further inflaming outrage among Bolivians already beset with economic woes.

The official exchange rate between the boliviano and the U.S. dollar has effectively collapsed. The black market rate has surged 50% above the official one. In his speech, Arce also said he would convene business leaders for discussions on whether to devalue the local currency.

Arce also announced a referendum on whether and how former presidents may seek reelection, an apparent attempt to resolve a dispute with powerful former President Evo Morales.

Arce's erstwhile mentor and ally, Morales has declared his intent to run against Arce in 2025 presidential elections  which Arce insists is unconstitutional.

Standing for more than two consecutive terms is prohibited under Bolivian law. But Morales managed to serve three terms as president, from 2006-2019, because of a legal loophole.

Morales' bid for a fourth term  which the constitutional court actually allowed at the time even though he lost a referendum on extending term limits  prompted allegations of fraud and unleashed mass unrest that compelled the leftist leader to resign and flee the country in 2019.

Morales' power struggle with Arce since returning home to Bolivia and launching a comeback has created a rolling political crisis that has paralyzed the countrys Congress, sunk plans to lure foreign investors to tap Bolivias vast lithium reserves and blocked the government from taking on foreign debt that would alleviate the cash crunch.

To ensure that political actors do not once again affect the stability and economy of Bolivian families, it's important to clarify the nature of reelection," Arce said, without giving further details about the public vote. It wasn't clear whether the referendum would involve changing the constitution ahead of next year's elections.

Although Independence Day speeches may typically offer leaders a chance to reflect on the year's political accomplishments, President Arce took the occasion to detail his many woes: Bolivia's fall in natural gas production, legislative gridlock, foreign currency shortage  even, he said, the climate crisis."

His critics showed little pity.

The president again blames Congress for the countrys crisis and avoids assuming responsibilities, opposition lawmaker Jairo Quinteros said.

Bolivia's anniversary comes just over 40 days after an alleged botched military coup brought the country to a standstill.

It remains unclear what exactly transpired on June 26 when General Juan Jose Zuniga stormed the government headquarters surrounded by military vehicles and briefly faced down Arce before being dismissed and arrested, his alleged overthrow plot vanquished.

Arce  who has denied an eruption of allegations that he masterminded the coup to boost his own political fortunes  shed no more light on the matter Tuesday.

What has become clearer, analysts say, is that Bolivia's economic and political crisis has only worsened.

The sight of tanks ramming into the presidential palace last month didn't quite help restore investor confidence. And amid the Independence Day festivities, trucks and buses idled for hours outside gas stations as the much-anticipated Russian fuel delivered last week failed to relieve the dire shortages.

Few expect the promise of a referendum to solve the country's problems.

Arce has opted to get rid of his problems, to pass the hot potato onto others by asking the people to find the solution, prominent Bolivian political analyst Jose Luis Bedregal said. A new scenario has opened that will further complicate the political debate.

___

Follow AP's regional coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
No explosives were found during the investigation of a bomb threat at the South Transit Center in Fort Collins on Tuesday.

Police say a man got off a Transfort bus at the South Transit Center near the intersection of Harmony Road and College Avenue just before noon Tuesday, placed three bags on the platform and told a nearby security guard that one of the bags contained a bomb.

Law enforcement was notified and the Northern Colorado Bomb Squad responded. Investigators did not discover any explosives, according to a news release.

The investigation lasted about six hours. During that time, staff at the transit center paused operations and the railroad and pathways around the transit center, including the entrance at Fossil Boulevard, were closed as a precaution, according to the news release. A commercial building near the transit center and a construction site directly adjacent to the transit center were asked to evacuate while the bomb squad investigated, the release said, and a train was stopped on the tracks near Prospect Road but there were no railroad crossing closures.

Fort Collins patrol officers located the suspect near the transit center, and he was arrested and charged with false reporting of explosives, a Class 5 felony, and hindering transportation, a misdemeanor, police said.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Fort Collins police investigate bomb threat at transit center Tuesday
Justin Vernon, 2019. - Credit: Gus Stewart/Redferns

Bon Iver played an acoustic rendition of The Battle Cry of Freedom during a rally for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on Wednesday.

Justin Vernon, lead vocalist in the indie folk band, told the crowd he wanted to end the performance with a nice old patriotic song thats been rolling around in my head these last months. Before getting his sheet music in order, Vernon, wearing a camouflage Harris and Walz hat, added, I love this melody, I love yall. Appreciate ya. Were here for the right reasons, and we all know what were here for, so were going to do our thing. Make this music and make way for the people that we need to hear from.

More from Rolling Stone

Bon Iver performs "The Battle Cry of Freedom" at a rally for Kamala Harris in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. pic.twitter.com/YmHiyl7oFD  CONSEQUENCE (@consequence) August 7, 2024

Bon Ivers For Emma, Forever Ago, Vernons debut album whose love-torn folk went on to influence the likes of Ed Sheeran and Kanye West, was featured on Rolling Stones The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list at Number 461.

The presumptive Democratic nominee for president has welcomed several musical guests to her rallies along the campaign trail. On Tuesday, actor and comedian Nick Offerman sang his own rendition of God Bless the U.S.A. during a Comics for Kamala fundraiser, singing, Im proud to be a Kamala man, who has quit the GOP/Because I cant just abide by a man whos tried for 34 felonies. And Ill proudly stand up and face the facts that the men that I once cheered are a bunch of wing-nut white nationalists.

Harris previously welcomed Megan Thee Stallion and Quavo at an Atlanta rally last month. Quavo, who was born in Georgia, expressed his support for the presidential candidate and praised her position on gun safety. Quavo has been an outspoken gun safety advocate following the shooting death of Migos member Takeoff in 2022.

One thing I learned from working with Vice President Harris is she always stands on business, Quavo said during the rally.

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The post Bon Iver Performs at Kamala Harris Rally in Eau Claire, Wisconsin: Watch appeared first on Consequence.

Bon Iver joined Vice President Kamala Harris for a performance at her presidential rally in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on Wednesday (August 7th).

During the hometown appearance, Justin Vernon and co. played a four-song set that included Towers, 666 , and Flume. He wrapped his performance with The Battle Cry of Freedom, an an abolition-era folk song, which Vernon said has been rolling around my head these last months. I love this melody.

Were here for the right reasons and we all know what we are here for, Vernon continued. Were gonna do our thing, make this music, and make way for the people we need to hear from.

Watch the full rally below. Bon Ivers performance begins around the 17:30 mark.

In addition to Bon Iver, Harris has secured rally appearances from Megan Thee Stallion and Quavo. Her campaign also immediately embraced the endorsement of Charli XCX and has gotten permission from Beyonce to use Freedom as her walk-out song.

This isnt Bon Ivers first time performing on behalf of a presidential candidate. They previously played during several of Bernie Sanders rallies and fundraisers when he ran in 2016 and 2020. The groups most recent album, i,i, was released in 2019.

The afternoon rally was the Democratic presidential nominees second event with her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Harris and Walz are slated to visit several more battleground states in the next several days, including Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada.

Bon Iver just performed moments ago at the Kamala Harris / Tim Walz campaign rally in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The campaign also just announced they raised over $36 million since the Tim Walz pick. pic.twitter.com/v7waYjhtFL  Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) August 7, 2024

.@BonIver, you made my kid Hopes day. (Which means you made mine too.) pic.twitter.com/9gMy9qGc2F  Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) August 7, 2024

Bon Iver Performs at Kamala Harris Rally in Eau Claire, Wisconsin: Watch

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COPENHAGEN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Two men were arrested in Sweden in connection with an explosion at a kiosk in the Danish capital of Copenhagen on Tuesday evening, Danish police said.

The explosion occurred at a kiosk located at Hans Knudsens Plads in northern Copenhagen. An object was thrown into the kiosk and exploded, but fortunately no one was injured, according to the Copenhagen Police.

"As a result of our investigation, we have now arrested two suspected perpetrators in the case. The two perpetrators have been arrested in Sweden," the Copenhagen Police updated on social media platform X hours after the explosion.

The police are still processing the crime scene and have not released further information. The ages and nationalities of the two suspects remain undisclosed. 
The City of Boone was recently designated as a Main Street community. Downtown Boone is pictured on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

The city of Boone is a Main Street Iowa community after years of dedication.

Boone and Indianola are two latest communities to join the Main Street Iowa program, announced on Tuesday by the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The two rural towns join 51 other Main Street communities across the state.

IEDA and Iowa Finance Authority Director Debi Durham revealed Boone's designation during the Iowa Downtown Conference in Cedar Rapids on Tuesday.

Boone and Indianola are rural communities with strong legacies and leaders who understand the connection between a vibrant downtown and economic growth and quality of life, Durham said. When you create good jobs and a place where people want to live, success follows.

Boone joins several other local Main Street communities, including Ames, Nevada and Story City.

What is a Main Street community?

Main Street is a strategy for downtown revitalization, a network of communities, and a national support program. Since its founding in 1985, the Iowa program has generated more than $2.5 billion in private investment, more than 5,000 new businesses, and 16,000 jobs.

Main Street Iowa accepts a limited number of new communities every two years, and the designation follows a rigorous application process. Applicants must demonstrate local support and investment, a downtown district with potential for growth and readiness to implement the Main Street Approach to revitalization and economic development.

More: The Boone County landfill is filling up fast, officials predict only 30 years til capacity

The City of Boone was recently designated as a Main Street community. Downtown Boone is pictured on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

Boone rallies after failed first attempt

Boone was denied a Main Street designation in 2022, but local leaders were determined to make it happen. Community groups partnered with a renewed focus on preserving downtown history and architecture, hoping to attract the attention of the nationwide program.

Boone has seen 15 new businesses arrive in the last two years. The city hopes to also add or renovate upper-story housing to meet residential demand in the Boone County seat of 12,500.

Several local housing projects have either been completed or are in the works, including a low-income complex on the north side of town. A new, multi-family neighborhood is being built near the intersection of Park Avenue and Marion Street in west Boone as well.

The city would also like to create short-term rentals for those who regularly visit the Boone County Fair, the Boone Speedway Super Nationals or the Farm Progress Show.

Boone has ramped up investment in the district to levels that would not have previously been thought possible, and we have so much more planned for the future, Boone Mayor Elijah Stines said.

The City of Boone was recently designated as a Main Street community. Downtown Boone is pictured on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

More: ISU's iconic 'Fountain of the Four Seasons' Maidens return after conservation efforts

Celia Brocker is a government, crime, political and education reporter for the Ames Tribune. She can be reached at CBrocker@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: What does Boone's designation as a Main Street community mean?
'Boring' vs 'weird': Trump campaign tries to define Walz after his Vance criticism stuck

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
Boy kidnapped from mother after separated at stash house in Juarez

Boy kidnapped from mother after separated at stash house in Juarez

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A nine-year-old boy was recently held for ransom after he was separated from his mother at a stash house in Ciudad Juarez, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (HSI) in El Paso.

HSI says the nine-year-old boy from Honduras was kidnapped and held for ransom by members of a transnational criminal organization after he was separated from his mother at a stash house in Juarez, waiting to be smuggled into the US through El Paso.

9-year-old boy who was kidnapped and later abandoned at Ciudad Juarez municipal police station. Photo: HSI

The boys kidnappers began demanding money from the boys relatives in Kansas City, Kansas. At the same time, the boys mother entered the country illegally and Border Patrol agents detained her on July 27 in El Paso.

On Aug. 1, agents with the Chihuahua anti-kidnapping unit interviewed one of the boys relatives who sent money through a wire transfer to Ciudad Juarez. On Aug. 2, the kidnappers abandoned the boy at a Ciudad Juarez municipal police station.

HSI says no arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.

HSI says Mexican authorities plan to make arrangements to transport the child to his country of origin.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WTNH)  New options are coming for Connecticut travelers looking to have a beach day, but youre going to have to wait.

Breeze Airways will add routes to Daytona Beach, Florida, and Wilmington, North Carolina, starting Feb. 13, Bradley International Airport announced on Wednesday. The flights will be offered on Thursdays and Sundays.

Hartford has been a fantastic market for us and we continue to see more opportunities for growth, David Neeleman, the founder and CEO of Breeze Airways. We continue to bring an elevated, premium leisure product to our Guests in Connecticut, and were continuing to look for growth opportunities as Hartfords largest commercial carrier by destinations.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
BRAZIL, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)  National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

Tuesday evening, Brazil held their annual National Night out at Forest Park. The event provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Those who attended got to enjoy free food, swimming, activities, and build relationships with community members.

Pool party for local families in Sullivan

Clay County Sheriff Brison Swearingen said its a great way to get to know the community.

It builds a strong bond between us and the community. It gives us, were able to give back to the citizens of Clay County, gives them an opportunity to speak with local law enforcement, he said.

Linton also had their National Night Out at Linton City Park.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Editors note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal.

Breeze Airways will start service at Daytona Beach International Airport this year.

The Cottonwood Heights, Utah-based airline will become the fourth to service the airport, with flights to four destinations. It will join Delta Air Lines, Avelo Airlines and American Airlines in servicing the region.

We have continued to see opportunities for growth on Floridas eastern coast, and thats evident by this announcement of four nonstop routes from Daytona Beach, David Neeleman, Breeze Airways founder and CEO, said in a prepared statement. These great destinations will give the community more affordable, yet elevated travel options.

Read: State Attorney Bain says 11 charged after operation targeting Orange County street gang

Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journals website.

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Breeze Airways will begin nonstop flights between the Triangle and two places in Florida that arent currently served by other airlines.

Breeze announced Wednesday that it will fly from Raleigh-Durham International Airport to Sarasota-Bradenton starting in November and to Daytona Beach starting in February. The low-cost carrier will operate both flights two days a week.

Those flights mean Triangle residents can fly nonstop from RDU to nine places in Florida, more than any other state.

Breeze, a start-up airline that began flying in 2021, has emerged as one of the fastest-growing carriers at RDU. It made its debut in the winter of 2023, with flights to three places. Before Wednesdays announcement, the airline offered nonstop flights to 18 destinations from the Triangle.

Raleigh-Durham has been an incredible market for us, and we continue to see more opportunities for growth, the airlines founder and CEO, David Neeleman, said in a written statement.

Neeleman says the airline flies routes that it considers under-served by other carriers, which means it often doesnt have competition. From RDU, it is currently the only airline flying nonstop to San Diego; Providence, Rhode Island; Burlington, Vermont; Jacksonville and West Palm Beach in Florida; Islip and White Plains in New York; and Columbus and Akron in Ohio.

Low-cost carriers such as Breeze cater to leisure travelers and tend to add flights to northern destinations in the summer and warmer ones in the winter, resulting in ever-changing schedules. Avelo Airlines flew between RDU and Sarasota for about a year, before discontinuing the service in January.

Legacy carriers such as Delta, American, Southwest and United serve the bulk of passengers at RDU. But low-cost airlines and international carriers such as Aeromexico, Copa, Lufthansa and Icelandair have helped broaden the options for Triangle travelers. People can now fly nonstop to about 70 places from the Triangle, including a record 10 international destinations.
Breeze Airlines Chief Guest Officer Fiona Kiesel, left, and St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board President David Sage announce Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, that the airline will begin air service at South Bend International Airport with nonstop flights to Orlando on Nov. 5 and to Fort Myers on Feb. 5, 2025.

SOUTH BEND  Breeze Airways announced Wednesday that it will begin air service with two nonstop flights between South Bend and Orlando in November and between South Bend and Fort Myers in February.

Breeze Chief Guest Officer Fiona Kiesel said flights between South Bend International Airport and Orlando International Airport will be on Thursdays and Sundays beginning Nov. 7. Flights between South Bend and Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers will be on Wednesdays and Saturdays beginning Feb. 5.

Most flight crews will be based in Florida, she said, at the start of service, but ground crew positions will be filled locally.

Breeze officials said travelers can now begin booking flights, which will have a 35% discount through Aug. 9 for all round-trip fares.

Breeze's announcement makes South Bend the second Indiana airport serviced by the Salt Lake City-based low-cost carrier that began in 2021 with a focus on leisure destinations. It now has about 40 Airbus 220-300 aircraft offering more than 200 seasonal and year-round routes between 64 cities in 30 states. Evansville Regional Airport added Breeze flights to Orlando earlier this year.

Kiesel said Breeze looks to underserved communities and connects them to their airline network.

Breeze Airlines Chief Guest Officer Fiona Kiesel announces Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, that the airline will begin air service at South Bend International Airport with nonstop flights to Orlando on Nov. 5 and to Fort Myers on Feb. 5, 2025.

"With cities like Orlando and Fort Myers Beach, this is an exact fit for our business model," Kiesel said.

Kiesel said the aircraft offers what the airline calls "elevated" features, which includes a type of business class, a cabin where seats have more legroom than conventional seating layouts, WI-FI on all planes and pricing structures for things such as baggage and seat assignment.

More: Breeze Airways: What to know about fares, routes, refunds and cancellation policies

Mike Daigle, CEO and executive director of South Bend International Airport, said, "This is one of the things that continues to allow us to fulfill our mission statement, which is to serve the traveling public and the community. It will give them different options, different choices, different destinations."

The announcement makes Breeze the fifth carrier to offer flights at South Bend International, joining Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines.

Although Florida remains an in-demand destination for South Bend travelers, Daigle said, Breeze will offer different specific destinations. For example, while Allegiant offers flights to Sandford/Orlando, he said, the direct Orlando airport flight may be better for some travelers.

David Sage, president of the St. Joseph County Airport Authority Board, said the new air service will only enhance the fact that the number of air travelers going through South Bend International this year is up 7.2% for the first half of 2024. And Breeze is the fifth different air carrier to serve South Bend, with the two new flight destinations being the 14th and 15th nonstop offerings for air travelers out of South Bend.

Breeze Airlines Chief Guest Officer Fiona Kiesel announces Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, that the airline will begin air service at South Bend International Airport with nonstop flights to Orlando on Nov. 5 and to Fort Myers on Feb. 5, 2025.

Currently, the airport offers direct service to Chicago; Detroit; Atlanta; Minneapolis; Dallas-Fort Worth; Charlotte, N.C.; Knoxville, Tenn.; Las Vegas, Phoenix/Mesa, Tampa/St. Petersburg, Punta Gorda/Ft. Myers, Orlando/Sanford and Sarasota/Bradenton.

The service to Knoxville started on June 14 between South Bend International and McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, which is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and other attractions.

Email Tribune staff writer Greg Swiercz at gswiercz@sbtinfo.com.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Breeze Airways offers Orlando, Fort Myers flights from South Bend
Breeze Airways will launch 7 new flights from SRQ this fall. See where they fly

A host of new flights are headed for the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

Breeze Airways announced service from SRQ to Westchester County, New York; Long Island, New York; Syracuse, New York; Canton, Ohio; Portland, Maine; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina and Richmond, Virginia. The new flights, which will launch in October and Novemeber, come along with the return of Avelo Airlines nonstop flight from SRQ to the Wilmington Airport in the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley region.

The eight total new routes add to five other flights announced this year. The 13 additional flights bring SRQs nonstop flight total to 60 routes.

Where are the new routes at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport flying?

These are where and when Breezes announced routes will fly:

Westchester County Airport: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays starting Oct. 31

Akron-Canton Airport: Wednesdays and Saturdays starting Nov. 20

Portland International Jetport: Wednesdays and Saturdays starting Nov. 20

Long Island MacArthur Airport: Thursdays and Sundays starting Nov. 21

Raleigh-Durham International Airport: Mondays and Fridays starting Nov. 22

Richmond International Airport: Mondays and Fridays starting Nov. 22

Syracuse Hancock International Airport: Mondays and Fridays starting Nov. 22

Breezes new flights to Westchester County, Long Island, Canton, Portland, Raleigh-Durham and Richmond will be nonstop, while the Syracuse flight is a breeze thru flight that includes a stop at another airport. The trip differs from a traditional connecting flight because it doesnt require passengers to change planes at the intermediate stop.

Breeze Airlines launched in 2021 and now offers eight direct flights from SRQ. The six announced Wednesday add to routes to Hartford, Connecticut and Providence, Rhode Island.

Travelers can book flights at flybreeze.com. The airline is offering 35% off all roundtrip base fares on trips booked before Aug. 9 if the promo code TAKEOFF is used at checkout.

SRQ continues to grow, add new flights

SRQ has announced new flights to New York City; Austin, Texas; Des Moines, Iowa; Plattsburgh, New York and Portsmouth, New Hampshire so far this year. Allegiant will fly the Austin, Des Moines, Plattsburgh and Portsmouth flights, while the New York City route comes from American Airlines.

The expanded service comes as SRQ continues to grow, with regular year-over-year increases in passengers reported each month and a new five-gate terminal set to open next year. The airport announced a new concession program in the terminal will feature several local restaurants, businesses and coffee shops.

Contact Herald-Tribune Growth and Development Reporter Heather Bushman at hbushman@gannet.com. Follow her on Twitter @hmb_1013.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Breeze Airways adding 7 new Sarasota Bradenton airport flights
CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS)  Earlier today, leadership with Breeze Airways and West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) announced that the airline will begin offering flights to New York-Newark from Charleston starting on November 14, 2024.

Governor Justice (R-WV) commented on the newest flight announcement.

This partnership with Breeze Airways continues to exceed all expectations, and Im thrilled the airline is expanding its service to connect West Virginia with the New York area. Airports significantly contribute to our economy, enhance tourism, and make our state more reachable. They are gateways to and from West Virginia, offering the world a chance to experience the beauty of our state. I look forward to Breezes continued success in West Virginia and to welcoming all the new visitors who will visit our great state because of this historic partnership. Jim Justice | Governor of West Virginia

More than $7 million announced by Senator Manchin for airport improvements in West Virginia

Since March 2023, Breeze has committed to implementing five new destinations through this partnership and currently offers flights from Myrtle Beach, SC, Orlando, FL, and Tampa, FL to CRW.

Charleston has been a really strong market for us over the last year and we continue to see more opportunities for growth. Now West Virginia guests can enjoy our affordable, elevated, and premium leisure service as they travel on the only nonstop flight from Charleston to New York. David Neelman | Founder & CEO, Breeze Airways

CRW had a record month for passengers in May, a total of 12,606 people boarding aircrafts. Over 38,000 travelers passed through the airport in May, exceeding totals from May 2023 by 21 percent. This made it one of the busiest months at the airport since before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019.

More than $1 million announced by Senator Manchin for Early Head Start Program in Raleigh County

The 20 million residents of Americas largest metropolitan area finally have access to Americas premier tourism destination. We cant wait for more visitors coming to enjoy our world-class outdoor recreation and unforgettable natural beauty. Many thanks are due to Governor Justice, the Legislature, the Kanawha County Commission, and the City of Charleston for their continued partnership to promote West Virginia tourism. Chelsea Ruby | West Virginia Tourism Secretary

This brings the first direct New York flight from CRW in 11 years, a signal of a continuing positive trend.

Adventures on the Gorge: Industry trends are being exceeded

The New York City area is among the top destinations requested by our community, and now our travelers have even more reason to choose West Virginia International Yeager Airport. This new route not only enhances access and flexibility for visitors to New York City area but also offers expanded options for connecting to other destinations. Breeze Airways has been a tremendous addition to West Virginia, and we look forward to their continued growth at CRW. Dominique Ranieri | Director and CEO, West Virginia International Yeager Airport

Flights offered to New York-Newark, NJ, will commence on Thursdays and Sundays on November 14, 2024. Fares will start from $49 one-way, and tickets can be booked 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 WVNS.
This photo taken on May 10, 2024 shows the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Moscow, Russia. (Xinhua/Cao Yang)

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." 
As a commissioner of the city of Miami since 2017, I have been deeply concerned by the rising tide of scandals that have overshadowed our citys governance and political discourse.

Over the years, our community has grappled with high-profile accusations and a growing mistrust in our institutions. The 2023 election further amplified this sentiment, with candidates passionately vowing to eradicate pettiness and restore integrity to our city.

Yet, substantial reforms have been absent, leaving us at a critical juncture where immediate and decisive measures are desperately needed.

The urgency of this moment cannot be overstated. Our city, renowned for its vibrant culture and dynamic potential, deserves to be celebrated for its strengths rather than be defined by its weaknesses.

We must move beyond rhetoric and take tangible steps to address the misconduct that undermines our communitys confidence and hampers our progress.

Unfortunately, we are still awaiting reports from the Auditor General, notably concerning the mishandling of COVID-19 gift cards  a serious problem involving the alleged resale of these cards.

Despite the pressing need for transparency, significant findings or actions have yet to come forward. This inaction underscores the need for a more robust and autonomous entity to oversee and audit city affairs, highlighting the undeniable need for change and the limitations of the current oversight system.

In response to this critical need, I proposed the creation of an independent Inspector Generals office to combat any allegations of corruption in our city. This office will be empowered with the authority to conduct thorough investigations and hold city officials responsible, offering a robust and effective solution to this ongoing issue.

With the city commissions unanimous approval of my legislation, we have reached a significant milestone in our fight for accountability.

While the drama surrounding Miamis political scene can be disheartening, I remain optimistic about our future. The potential office of the Inspector General represents a substantial leap forward.

By equipping this office with the necessary tools and authority, we are paving the way for a future characterized by greater transparency, integrity, and efficiency in government.

The proposed office of the Inspector General would surpass the limited scope of the current Auditor General. It would have the authority to issue subpoenas, demand appearances and collect evidence crucial for uncovering misconduct. This office would audit and review past, present, and future programs, contracts, and transactions, ensuring that all city activities are conducted with integrity.

We can establish a comprehensive oversight mechanism by granting the Inspector General the power to require reports from all city entities, including the mayor, city commissioners, managers, agencies, and independent bodies.

The office would scrutinize procurement processes, project designs, bid specifications, contractor activities, and compliance with contract specifications, thus detecting and preventing fraud. This comprehensive oversight will provide reassurance to the residents of Miami.

Moreover, the Inspector Generals office would be empowered to investigate citizen complaints, a vital function for maintaining public trust. It could subpoena witnesses, administer oaths and demand the production of records  capabilities the existing Auditor General lacks.

The Inspector Generals role in investigating citizen complaints ensures that the office remains accountable, directly responding to the concerns of Miamis residents and demonstrating its commitment to serving the public interest.

Miami urgently needs structural change to combat corruption and cronyism effectively. An independent Inspector General with the authority to investigate at all levels of government is a crucial step toward restoring integrity in our city.

This transition from rhetoric to action will demonstrate to the people of Miami that we are committed to real change. Establishing the Inspector Generals office will ensure that our government operates transparently and efficiently and inspire confidence in our citys future, benefiting all its residents.

With the creation of the Inspector Generals office, Miami is poised to overcome its challenges and emerge stronger.

On Aug. 20th, voters can make a positive impact by supporting this initiative, setting our city on a path to a brighter future.

Join me in moving Miami forward by voting YES on Miami Referendum 1, which eliminates the office of the existing Independent Auditor General.

Then vote YES on Miami Referendum 2, which creates the new office of the Independent Inspector General in the city..

Manolo Reyes is a city of Miami commissioner representing District 4.
A business boards up in Southend amid fears of more protests - John Keeble/Getty Images

MPs were advised to work from home, GP surgeries were closed and shops were boarded up as Britain braced for more than 100 far-Right rallies on Wednesday.

Almost 4,000 specially-trained public order officers were deployed on the streets and another 2,000 were placed on standby in anticipation of unrest across the country.

Police sources said intelligence suggested more than 100 far-Right gatherings were planned and another 30 counter-protests expected across 41 of the 43 force areas in England and Wales.

However, widespread far right rallies failed to materialise and demonstrators were outnumbered by crowds of counter-protesters, including Muslim groups and anti-fascist activists, in parts of London, Birmingham and Brighton.

GP surgeries closed early amid fears that staff and patients could be caught up in the unrest, and City workers were told to leave the office.

Ahead of the planned protests, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Commons Speaker, wrote to all MPs encouraging them to stay away from work if they feared that they could be targeted.

Shops in Walthamstow, in north-east London, Middlesbrough, and Southend, in Essex, closed early or were boarded up in anticipation of disorder.

The Cliffs Pavillion theatre in Southend also cancelled two of its performances, but police in the area told people to ignore social media rumours of protests in the city.

Canterbury Cathedral closed its grounds four hours early as a safety precaution ahead of possible riots.

In Portsmouth, nearly 50 far-Right supporters gathered outside a UK Border Agency office near the cross-Channel ferry port, while police in Aldershot had to step in to separate opposing groups who were shouting at each other.

Click here to view this content.

Speaking in Rotherham at a hotel housing migrants that was damaged during riots on Sunday, Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, said people should stay away from any unrest.

She said: I know that the public will be feeling anxious about the reports of potentially more unrest tonight, but the police will be there to respond to any violence and criminality that we see on our streets.

There is no place for that on our UK streets and the police will do their job, like they have done exceptionally well under very difficult circumstances  missiles being thrown at them, attacks.

Other police will be there to keep the public safe, and there is no excuse for thuggery and criminality on the streets.

A large counter-protest was held in Walthamstow, north-east London - Paul Grover for the Telegraph

Police sources said forces were braced for a very busy night on Wednesday and warned members of the public to stay away from the gatherings or risk arrest.

Police also warned that those taking part would be identifiable even if they covered their faces.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, of the Metropolitan Police, said: We will not tolerate any disorder, and will make arrests.

We are also using a range of specialist teams, including mounted units, dog handlers, intelligence experts and evidence gatherers.

We will be using retrospective facial recognition to help officers identify those behind criminal disorder. This technology can be used even when offenders are wearing masks.

Police at the scene of a gathering in North Finchley, north London - PA

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, the National Police Chiefs Council chairman, said no one was invisible in a crowd.

He added: Officers across the country are looking at intelligence, CCTV footage, body-worn cameras, and will continue to do so. If you are not arrested now, you will be in future.

A list of more than 30 immigration centres, legal offices and asylum hotels had been shared by far-Right supporters as targets.

Stephen Parkinson, the Director of Public Prosecutions, warned that the very act of sharing the list of potential targets for disorder could come under the scope of terrorism charges.

Mr Parkinson revealed on Wednesday that terror legislation was already being used in one case.

In the City of London, workers were dismissed at lunchtime amid fears that disorder could prevent them from getting home safely at the end of the working day.

One office worker in a City firm said he and his colleagues had been told to leave their office near Liverpool Street because of planned riots in the area, and would work from home for the rest of the week.

In Middlesbrough, the scene of widespread disorder at the weekend, many businesses closed early, with some boarding up windows.

Using all powers available

A Cleveland Police spokesman attempted to reassure the local community, saying: The force is resourced and well-equipped to manage any additional disorder, and we will be using all powers that are available to us to help us prevent disorder.

The ongoing disorder is thought to be having a major impact on businesses in the areas worst affected. The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said it was doing what it could to help small firms worried about being caught up in the unrest.

Martin McTague, the FSB national chairman, said: Millions of small businesses are on our high streets and town centres, populating our local communities and finding themselves on the front line of the recent public disorder, violence and damage which all come at human cost.

Local authorities, insurance companies and politicians of all stripes need to be ready to support their small businesses to rebuild, recover and get back on their feet.

By 7pm on Wednesday, hundreds of counter-protesters had gathered at sites across the country.

In Walthamstow, a crowd amassed carrying banners reading Oppose Tommy Robinson and Refugees Welcome amid fears that far-Right agitators were planning to target an immigration lawyers office in the town centre.

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Several miles away, anti-fascist protesters gathered by the old fire station in Hackney, with one sign reading We are all refugees.

The largest far-Right demonstration took place in Portsmouth, where men wearing balaclavas clashed with police officers and blocked traffic.

Far-Right protests failed to materialise in Birmingham, where some counter-demonstrators wore masks and balaclavas, and Sheffield.

They also did not turn up in Brentford, west London, where it was feared they would target a migrant advice centre.

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Meanwhile, hundreds of anti-fascists chanting refugees are welcome here gathered in Southampton city centre, facing just 50 anti-immigration demonstrators.

Similar scenes occurred in Newcastle, Sheffield, Bristol and Northampton.

There were also fears that mobs of criminals could use the planned riots as cover to loot retail premises, with warnings that Oxford Circus could be targeted.

More than 1,300 specialist public order officers were ready to be deployed across London to quell disorder, the Metropolitan Police said.

It is understood that the King is being briefed on a daily basis about the national unrest.

It came as the first rioters began to be sentenced on Wednesday. Derek Drummond, 58, became the first to receive a substantial prison term as he was jailed for three years at Liverpool Crown Court after pleading guilty to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker.

Following a public appeal, Drummond handed himself into police and said he was a fool.

Declan Geiran, 29, was handed a two and a half-year sentence after he set a police vans seat belt on fire while the van was parked in the city centre.

Mr Stephens said: We are arresting people, bringing them into custody, remanding and charging people as we speak. Once arrested, and even if you have no prior convictions, we promise you that you will be remanded into custody. You wont be going home to see your family and friends.

If you carry out this thuggish behaviour, then you need to know the personal consequences that come with it and that will directly affect you. If you are charged with violent disorder, you could be looking at a five-year prison sentence.

Additional reporting by: Connor Stringer, Neil Johnston, Patrick Sawer, Steve Bird, Max Stephens and Albert Tait

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By Kate Holton, Catarina Demony and Suban Abdulla

LONDON (Reuters) - Thousands of police and anti-racism protesters gathered on streets across Britain on Wednesday to challenge expected far-right groups that failed to materialise following more than a week of violent racist attacks targeting Muslims and migrants.

Britain has been hit by a series of riots that erupted early last week after three young girls were killed in a knife attack in Southport, northwest England, triggering a wave of false messaging online that wrongly identified the suspected killer as an Islamist migrant.

Posts online had said far-right, anti-Muslim protesters would target a list of immigration centres, migrant support centres and specialist law firms on Wednesday, prompting many businesses to close early and some shops to board up windows.

The reports prompted the deployment of thousands of police officers, and crowds of protesters massed in towns and cities including London, Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool and Hastings, holding banners saying "Fight racism", "Stop the far right" and "Will trade racists for refugees".

The protesters were made up of a diverse collection of Muslims, anti-racist and anti-fascist groups, trade unionists, left-wing organisations, and locals appalled at the riots that had hit the country.

By 9 p.m. (2000 GMT) there were no reports of any serious disorder. Police said around 50 people in Croydon, south London, had thrown bottles and were trying to cause disruption.

Waste collector Stetson Matthew, 64, who joined thousands of demonstrators in Walthamstow, northeast London, said people had the right to protest but that the targeting of ethnic minorities had put the country on edge.

"Everybody has the right to do what they need to do but what they must do is to put their voices across peacefully, amicably, without any stress or violence," he said.

One woman who joined a counter protest in Hastings, southeast England, said she was relieved to see a large turnout.

"I felt I absolutely had to be here tonight to take a stand, and it is much easier for me to come as a white woman than for some of my non-white friends, so I'm here in solidarity," said 37-year-old Lucy, a flower grower, who declined to give her last name.

'STOP THE BOATS'

Riots erupted last week when groups of a few hundred mostly men clashed with police and smashed windows of hotels housing asylum-seekers from Africa, Asia and the Middle East, chanting "get them out" and "stop the boats" - a reference to those arriving in Britain in small dinghies without permission.

They have also pelted mosques with rocks, prompting Muslim organisations to issue community safety advice.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, a former chief prosecutor who is facing his first crisis since winning a July 4 election, has warned rioters they would face lengthy jail terms as he seeks to stamp out the worst outbreak of violence in Britain in 13 years.

A 58-year-old man was jailed for three years for violent disorder on Wednesday, while two others, aged 41 and 29, were sentenced to 20 and 30 months, respectively.

"This is the swift action we're taking. If you provoke violent disorder on our streets or online, you will face the full force of the law," Starmer said.

Migration to Britain was a major factor in its 2016 vote to leave the European Union and it was a battleground during last month's election, with Nigel Farage's Reform Party winning around 4 million votes on calls for tighter border controls.

Britain saw record net migration levels in 2022, with numbers buoyed by those arriving from Ukraine and Hong Kong, and through work and student visas.

Net migration through legal means was some 685,000 in 2023, while 29,000 people arrived on small boats across the Channel, many having fled war zones. The far-right chants of "stop the boats" was also a slogan of the Conservative Party before it was swept out of power after 14 years at the election.

The government has put together a so-called "standing army" of 6,000 specialist police officers to respond to any violence.

The National Police Chiefs' Council said more than 120 people had been charged and 428 arrests made in connection with the disorder.

(This story has been refiled to correct a typo in paragraph 19)

(Additional reporting by Sam Tobin, Kylie MacLellan and Michael Holden in London, Alexandra Hudson in Hastings; Writing by Kate Holton and Alistair Smout; Editing by Alex Richardson and Philippa Fletcher and Marguerita Choy)
'Bubble zones' proposed to keep back protesters at abortion clinics and synagogues in L.A.

A pro-Palestinian demonstrator gets in a car partially surrounded by pro-Israel protesters near Adas Torah, a synagogue on West Pico Boulevard, in June. (Zoe Cranfill / Los Angeles Times)

Protesters would need to give 8 feet of space to people entering abortion clinics, schools or places of worship across swaths of Los Angeles County under two "bubble zone" proposals gaining speed.

Citing rising violence and unruly protests, L.A. County and city officials inched forward Tuesday with the proposals, which would make it a misdemeanor for protesters to intentionally block the entrances of healthcare facilities, schools or religious institutions  or demonstrate within 8 feet of anyone trying to get inside. The protective 8-foot "bubble" would be required within 100 feet of a facilitys entrance.

The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted Tuesday to ask county lawyers to draft an ordinance that would apply to unincorporated areas, home to 1 million people.

L.A. City Councilmembers Katy Yaroslavsky and Bob Blumenfield introduced a nearly identical motion, which is slated to go before the council's public safety committee in the coming weeks.

Even here in Los Angeles County, we have seen how intimidation is used to prevent community members from entering facilities to receive essential services, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, who crafted the countys policy, said in a statement.

In June, pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside a temple in Pico-Robertson, part of Horvaths district. The protest turned violent, drawing a rebuke from the White House. Several Jewish advocacy groups wrote letters in support of Horvaths proposal, saying they believed the law would protect the Jewish community in the face of rising hate crimes and threats against synagogues.

Salam Al-Marayati, president of the Muslim Public Affairs Council, agreed that protesters needed to respect peoples access to places of worship. But in an interview, he said he has very little confidence that police would enforce the law equally and believes it could be weaponized to squash student protests against the war in Gaza.

Under the county proposal, demonstrators would be barred from engaging in oral protest within 8 feet of anyone near the entrance of a school.

People walking on the sidewalk protesting the genocide in Gaza, that should be protected, Al-Marayati said. Were just not assured that this measure would protect these legitimate peaceful protests.

Al-Marayati said he found out about the county proposal on Monday.

Nobody ever consulted us on this measure. A community member told us about it, and we found it on the agenda, he said. "No call, no email, no invitation.

The county proposal would also regulate protests at healthcare facilities, notably Planned Parenthood clinics. Sue Dunlap, the head of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles, said she was hopeful that a buffer would tone down unruly protests that she said have spiked since the overturning of Roe vs. Wade.

You need to see it to understand what its like, said Dunlap. Its crazy  800 people encircling the building thats the size of a standalone Starbucks.

Several antiabortion demonstrators opposed the county proposal at Tuesday's board meeting and said they have never encountered violence or property damage when protesting. "Were peaceful people," said one man, who has been demonstrating in the county for 25 years.

Jenny Dodson Mistry with the National Institute for Reproductive Health said that bubble zone laws can help keep a clinic's employees and patients safe  as long as they're actively enforced, and protesters and healthcare workers are educated about them.

You cant see a bubble, she noted.

County officials plan to model their law after a Colorado law that was one of the first in the nation and survived legal challenges from antiabortion activists. It was upheld by the Supreme Court, which ruled that the bubble zone did not violate free speech rights.

The city of L.A. proposal appears to be broader than the county's version. It would bar protesters from blocking "community/public" facilities as well as healthcare, educational and religious institutions.

The proposed city ordinance would also bar protesters at these locations from coming within 8 feet of another person without consent, said Leo Daube, a spokesperson for Yaroslavsky.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Buc-ees is coming to Huber Heights. Is the city ready for it?

Buc-ees is coming to Huber Heights. Is the city ready for it?

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Mega-convenience store Buc-ees will break ground on its Huber Heights location Thursday, and with a fandom rivaling Taylor Swifts for sheer ferocity, saying its long-awaited is an understatement.

Offering brisket, beef jerky, Beaver Nuggets and scads of merchandise, its not just a gas station, despite the plan for the Huber Heights location including 240 gas pumps.

If it were just a gas station, it would be just a gas station, and there wouldnt be this type of hype around it, said Huber Heights Mayor Jeff Gore.

Wawa announces Huber Heights groundbreaking date

Gore is partially to blame for the hype. It was his tweet back in August 2023 announcing the future arrival of Buc-ees that shocked the region. When complete, the store will be both the first in Ohio and the northern-most for the Texas-based retailer.

Along with the retailer, though, will come the crowds of people, the new payroll taxes infusing the city coffers and the challenges to infrastructure.

Tracking Buc-ee's

Buc-ees arrival in Kentucky: A phenomenon

Robert Blythe is familiar with what Gore and Huber Heights are experiencing.

As mayor of Richmond, Kentucky, Blythe was on hand in April 2022 as the new store just south of Lexington flung its doors open to the public.

It was something I had never experienced before as mayor, so I was excited about it coming, said Blythe.

He called the retailer a phenomenon, comparing it to the hype of Black Friday holiday shopping.

New details: Buc-ees groundbreaking planned for August

There was a lady there, she said Ive been to all their stores, I have a cap, I have a T-shirt, the Richmond mayor said. I said, Thats wonderful. There were folks that would just drive by just to look at it.

Buc-ees is, simultaneously, a magnet for an unprecedented crush of people and utter confusion for those who have not experienced it first-hand.

You try to explain it, said Huber Heights Gore. And everyone looks at you like youre crazy because you cant explain it until you visit one.

Because of numerous visits to see his son in Texas, Gore knows the mania that the Buc-ees Experience inspires.

The hype is not the only thing coming to Huber Heights, however. Buc-ees is also bringing the very real traffic concerns in what is already a busy area adjacent to I-70.

But Gore said Buc-ees has a plan.

Of the 700-page development plan from Buc-ees, over 500 pages of it was just about traffic, said Gore. So people can navigate that.

One part of the plan includes a dedicated exit lane just for Buc-ees.

In the end, any traffic trouble will very likely be worth it for the residents of Huber Heights. The amount of traffic  all non-semi-truck  packing that exit landing and pouring into Buc-ees will create approximately 200 jobs for residents, injecting significant revenue into the citys wallet.

I know they are going to add a healthy number to our bottom line when it comes to overall revenue, said the Huber Heights mayor, but I have no way of projecting what thats going to be, but were happy they are coming and any revenue that it generates for the city is great.

Building Buc-ee's

Buc-ees a big part of Huber Heights push to develop that area of city

Richmonds mayor knows that feeling. Blythe said the store has had an impact on the citys payroll tax.

When I go to some of our regional meetings, the first thing people ask me is, Hows Buc-ees doing? said Blythe. Buc-ees is doing well. Trust me. They are doing well.

Blythe did say that while the store management does things its own way, they are great members of the community.

He does have one piece of advice for Gore and Huber Heights: Get ready. Get ready. Get ready.



Gore said hes ready, and from a business perspective, so is Huber Heights.

The Buc-ees project is part of the citys push to grow in its eastern portion, adding to the Executive Boulevard expansion where the Rose Music Center is currently flourishing.

Several restaurants are already open there, with plans for even more to follow.

Coming Wednesday: 2 NEWS takes you on a field trip to Richmond, Kentucky, to experience Buc-ees Mania first-hand.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Bucks County Detectives have arrested four members of what they are calling a large-scale drug trafficking operation responsible for smuggling and distributing cocaine and methamphetamine in the Philadelphia area and Delaware.

Arrest warrants have been filed for two California men who authorities allege were the drug source for the operation.

The Bucks County District Attorney's Office has scheduled a press conference for Wednesday to announce the arrests at the Bucks County Justice Center. Officials with the U.S. Attorney's Office and Homeland Security, who were involved in the six-month investigation will also attend.

Four members of the alleged drug organization, including its leader, were arraigned Aug. 5 before District Judge Terrence Hughes on long lists of felonies including dozens of drug-related charges and corrupt organizations. They were incarcerated in Bucks County Correctional Center in lieu of $1 to $5 million in bail.

Bucks County Detectives have arrested four men they allege are involved in a large-scale drug trafficking operation that shipped illegal drugs concealed in ordinary objects to homes in Bucks and Montgomery counties since January.

More on Tullytown house explosion Oil heater blamed in explosion that sent three to hospital in Tullytown. What we know

Authorities used cell phone and USPS records as well as surveillance and a confidential informant to track the movements of the defendants and the alleged drug deliveries since late January, according to a 49-page affidavit of probable cause.

County Detectives allege that Matthew James Byrne, 43, of Broomall in Delaware County, headed the so called "Byrne Drug Trafficking Organization" making regular trips to California where he allegedly purchased methamphetamines and cocaine from sources in the Los Angeles area.

After purchasing the drugs in California, Byrne allegedly concealed them in handmade wood boxes, foam cooler boxes or inside Bluetooth speakers that he shipped overnight to the homes in Bucks and Montgomery counties. Narcotics detectives tracked 12 shipments.

The other defendants charged each face multiple felony drug-related charges and a felony charge of corrupt organizations are:

Khalik Kemp, 34, of Philadelphia.

Joseph Byrne, 47, of Bristol Township.

Christian Garwood, 55, of Flourtown.

Arrest warrants also have been issued for Chaz Brandon Russel Harness-Walker, 40, of Inglewood, California and Ralph Brooks, 42, of Los Angeles. They also face multiple felony drug-related charges and corrupt organizations. As of Tuesday they had not yet been arraigned.

Bucks County Detectives allege that the so-called "Byrne Drug Trafficking Organization" used Bluetooth speakers like these to conceal millions of dollars in cocaine and methamphetamine shipped from California to Bucks and Montgomery counties over the last seven months.

On July 18, detectives executed search warrants at several homes connected with the investigation in Philadelphia, Delaware, and Montgomery counties, seizing cocaine and other drugs, drug paraphernalia, four guns, and more than $20,000 in cash. The investigation remains active, authorities said.

Authorities allege that Matthew Byrne and Kemp traveled to Los Angeles separately and together for the sole purpose of purchasing inventory of cocaine and methamphetamines to fuel their drug empire.

Flight and travel information for nine trips between January and July showed that Matthew Byrne traveled to LA at least once a month. He would stay there for two or three days then return to Pennsylvania.

Typically within a day after Matthew Byrne returned from his West Coast trips, drug laden parcels followed, the affidavit said.

The parcels labeled with fictitious names  John Ross and John Patrick  were shipped to homes in the Indian Creek and Golden Ridge sections of Levittown in Bristol Township, and a home in Flourtown, according to the affidavit.

The people who received the parcels were paid after the deliveries were picked up, often by Matthew Byrne. From there, the drugs were transported to other organization members in Montgomery, Delaware and Philadelphia counties and Delaware state, the affidavit said.

The illegal drugs entered Bucks and Montgomery counties through the U.S. Parcel Service out of Los Angeles. Byrne allegedly shipped the packages using the next day delivery option, which made it harder for law enforcement to intercept them, the affidavit said.

Packages containing concealed illegal drugs were intercepted in Louisville, Kentucky at what is considered the worlds largest automated package handling facility.

Authorities estimated $1.2 million in illegal drugs were found stashed inside three intercepted Bluetooth speakers. The street value of the drugs inside one 8.5 pound package intercepted was estimated at more than $318,000, the affidavit said.

One of the Bucks County homes where packages were regularly delivered was the Gable Hill Road home of Joseph Byrne, Matthew Byrnes brother. Joseph Byrne told authorities he was paid $500 for each package he had delivered to his home.

Joseph Byrne also told authorities his brother told him he sold drugs because of his childrens tuition and he wanted to make sure his kids were set up, according to the affidavit.

The other Byrne family member who had drugs delivered to the home is not facing criminal charges as of Monday. Garwood also had packages delivered to his home, police said.

Reporter Jo Ciavaglia can be reached at jciavaglia@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: How Bucks County detectives unraveled a large-scale drug operation
Budget airline to offer nonstop flights to four new destinations at Daytona Beach airport

DAYTONA BEACH  A Utah-based low-cost airline will soon offer year-round twice-a-week nonstop flights at Daytona Beach International Airport to four new destinations.

Breeze Airways announced its plans at a press conference Wednesday morning at the Volusia County-run airport.

It will launch its service to Westchester County (White Plains), New York, on Thursdays and Sundays, beginning Nov. 14.

It will add flights on Thursdays and Sundays beginning Feb. 13, 2025, to and from Hartford, Connecticut, and to and from Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.

Then it will add flights on Mondays and Fridays beginning Feb. 14, 2025 to and from Providence, Rhode Island.

Cyrus Callum, Volusia County's director of aviation and economic resources, described Breeze's decision to add flights here as "the biggest air service announcement" in the airport's history. "We haven't had one carrier announce four new destinations all at once before," he said in a phone interview.

A Breeze Airways jetliner is pictured in January 2022. The Cottonwood Heights, Utah-based low-cost airline on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, announced plans to begin offering twice-weekly nonstop flights at Daytona Beach International Airport to four destinations: White Plains, New York (beginning in November 2024), and beginning in February 2025 to Hartford, Connecticut, Providence, Rhode Island, and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.

What is Breeze Airways?

The budget airline was founded in 2018 and began service on its first route (Tampa to Charleston, South Carolina) in 2021. It is based in Cottonwood Heights, Utah (just outside Salt Lake City).

Its founder, CEO David Neeleman, previously was involved in founding four other airlines: JetBlue, WestJet, Morris Air, and Azul Linhas Aereas.

According to its website, Breeze focuses on providing "efficient and affordable flights between secondary airports, bypassing hubs for shorter travel times. Our flights include seamless booking, no change or cancellation fees, up to 24 months of reusable flight credit, and customized flight features, including complimentary family seating, delivered via a sleek and simple app. We make it easy to buy and easy to fly."

Cities that Breeze currently flies out of in Florida include Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, Fort Myers, Sarasota-Bradenton, Pensacola, and Vero Beach.

What are its fare options?

Breeze offers four different types of air fares: "No Flex Fare" (no-frills basic fare whose purchasers are the last to be seated); "Nice" (includes a free carry-on item, standard seat, and general boarding); "Nicer" (free carry-on item, one free checked bag, extra leg room, free inflight WiFi, priority boarding); and "Nicest" (one carry-on item, two checked bags, free inflight WiFi, recliner seat, two free checked bags, priority boarding, free inflight snacks and drinks). All options allow one free personal item.

Prices on Breeze flights from Daytona Beach were not available on the airline's website on Tuesday.

Introductory discount available this week

Breeze is offering a 35% discount on all roundtrip base fares if purchasedbefore midnight Friday for travel from Aug. 28 through Feb. 4 of next year,and from April 28 through May 13, 2025. To access the introductory discount, use the promotional code "TAKEOFF" at checkout on flybreeze.com or on the Breeze app.

What kind of planes will Breeze use here?

Callum said Breeze will use Airbus A220-300s on its flights to and from Daytona Beach. They will be able to seat up to 137 passengers.

Breeze flights will boost travel options at Daytona airport

The addition of the new routes by Breeze will increase the number of destinations airline travelers can fly to from Daytona Beach International Airport to nine, not counting seasonal offerings.

The airport currently offers four flights a day, seven days a week, by both Delta Air Lines (to Atlanta, Georgia), and by American Airlines (to Charlotte, North Carolina).

Low-cost carrier Avelo Airlines currently offers twice-a-week nonstop flights to New Haven, Connecticut.

Avelo recently announced plans to add twice weekly nonstop service to Wilmington, Delaware (a 30-minute drive to Philadelphia), beginning Nov. 7, and to Hartford, Connecticut, starting Nov. 8.

The addition of Breeze could increase Daytona Beach's chances of attracting service to new destinations from other airlines as well, said Joanne Magley, the airport's director of air service, marketing and customer service.

"The more we add airlines, the more other airlines take notice," she said.

Joanne Magley, pictured on March 30, 2023, is the director of air service, marketing and customer experience at Daytona Beach International Airport.

Decision hastened by competitor's recent announcement

Callum said Avelo's announcement in July of its plans to add nonstop Daytona Beach-Hartford service took Breeze officials by surprise as they were already in talks about possibly introducing flights to that city from here.

"It created a sense of urgency," he said of Breeze's decision last week to finally agree to add service at Daytona Beach.

Cyrus Callum is Volusia County's director of aviation and economic resources, which includes Daytona Beach International Airport. He is pictured on April 5, 2023, at the airport.

Incentives were involved

Daytona Beach International Airport agreed to provide Breeze with "general airport incentives" that include a two-year waiver on the fees the airport typically charges airlines such as landing fees and rent, said Callum.

The airport also pledged to provide marketing assistance to promote the airline's new routes, as well as the possibility of marketing assistance from the Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The amount the CVB would spend on promoting Breeze's new routes has yet to be determined and is subject to approval both from its board as well as from the Volusia County Council.

Were local tax dollars involved?

No, at least not those collected by the county.

Daytona Beach International Airport operates as an "enterprise fund" meaning that its funding comes from revenues it generates on its own from tenants, which include the airlines, car rental companies, and the restaurants and hotels on its property, as well as from state and federal grants (usually for construction projects).

The airport does not use money from ad valorem taxes paid by Volusia County residents.

What they're saying

Karen Feaster is the airport director at Daytona Beach International Airport. She is seen at the airport on June 16, 2023.

Breeze starting service at Daytona Beach International Airport is beyond NICE, said Airport Director Karen Feaster, in a news release. Our air service development team has been talking with the route planners at Breeze for more than two years, continually building relationships and now we can celebrate a huge air service win for our community and welcome even more visitors to our beautiful destination.

We have continued to see opportunities for growth on Floridas eastern coast, and thats evident by this announcement of four nonstop routes from Daytona Beach, said David Neeleman, Breeze Airways founder and CEO, in the news release. These great destinations will give the community more affordable, yet elevated travel options.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Breeze Airways to offer flights to 4 destinations at Daytona airport
Buffalo man buys lemon from local used car lot, gets help from Erie Times-News

Bill Stein simply wanted to buy an inexpensive used car for his son to drive to his student-teaching assignments.

The suburban Buffalo, New York, man instead learned a costly and time-consuming lesson in vehicle titles and the importance of a thorough test drive.

Stein's online search for a used car led him to M&H Auto Sales and Service, 2301 Parade St. He had spotted a 2011 Honda CR-V on the car lot's Facebook Marketplace ad and drove to Erie on June 3 to check out the vehicle.

More: Erie man gets prison term for failing to deliver on Jeep raffle, making up bogus winner

Stein and his son met Abdullah Rasheed at the car lot and took the Honda for a test drive, which in retrospect was the first warning sign.

"He only wanted us to drive it around the block, so we didn't get the car over 30 miles an hour," Stein said.

A suburban Buffalo, New York, man said he had multiple issues after buying a 2011 Honda CR-V from M&H Auto Sales and Services, 2301 Parade St. He was originally unable to register the car in his home state.

Though Stein realized that the vehicle needed new brakes and tires just to pass inspection, he agreed to buy it for $4,800 in cash.

Once Stein paid the money, he said he had to beg for a simple receipt even though Pennsylvania's Automotive Industry Trade Practices Regulations require sellers to provide a copy of the written contract or agreement of sale, the installment sales contract, an odometer statement and the warranty.

All Stein received was a handwritten receipt signed by Rasheed stating, "2011 Honda CRV sold on 6-3-24 for $4800 cash."

Later, when Stein saw the title, he noticed that the previous owner hadn't signed it over to the car lot. Instead, Rasheed had signed it as the previous owner's power of attorney.

They had to take the title to an Erie notary public to get a temporary license plate. Only then did Stein and his son start their trip back to Buffalo.

Stein was not told he bought the vehicle 'as is'

Once the vehicle reached highway speeds, it started to shake. Stein pulled over and called the car lot.

"I wanted to bring it back and (Rasheed) said I had bought it 'as is,'" Stein said. "He had never mentioned that as a condition of the sale."

Rasheed later told Stein that he sold him the vehicle as an individual, not through the business  despite the fact they met at the car lot, used dealer plates from the lot for the test drive and conducted the transaction at the lot. Police told Stein that since it was a person-to-person sale, he needed to take Rasheed to court in order to get back his money.

The person who answered the phone at M&H Auto Sales and Service identified themselves as Rasheed's brother and said he was "no longer there." The person refused to provide a contact number for Rasheed, give him a message or respond to questions about the sale.

Stein was unable to drive the vehicle or sell it

Stein and his son made it home and started repairing the vehicle. The shaking was caused by worn out struts and Stein was about to replace them when he tried to register the vehicle with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.

"I couldn't get the car registered," Stein said. "They said the title wasn't clear."

Unable to drive the vehicle or sell it, Stein tried contacting the previous owner in an attempt to convince her to sign over the title to him.

He was unable to reach her, but his wife contacted the Erie Times-News, and I eventually was able to call the previous owner's father, Don Richardson.

"My daughter must have signed a form giving Rasheed the power of attorney," Richardson said. "I'll call (Stein) and mail him the form."

Richardson said Rasheed told his daughter to give him power of attorney so he could sell the vehicle more quickly.

Stein should have received the power of attorney form from Rasheed at the time of sale, but Stein said that he did not. Richardson kept his promise and the new form arrived in Stein's mailbox a few days later on July 29.

Stein took the form to the DMV "and the title was changed over without a glitch," he said.

Plans for the Honda now include new struts and then selling the vehicle to a friend of the family, Stein said. Stein's son is getting a different vehicle.

What lessons did Stein learn from all of this?

"Pay close attention during the sale and be very wary," Stein said.

Have a consumer question you'd like us to help you with? Leave a message with David Bruce at 814-870-1736, send an email to david.bruce@timesnews.com or send mail to 205 W. 12th St., Erie, PA 16534.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Used Honda CR-V causes issues for Buffalo man after buying it in Erie
Buffalo man sentenced for stealing from Walden Galleria, allegedly threatening security with knife

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Buffalo man was sentenced to five years of probation after stealing from the Walden Galleria and threatening security with a pocketknife, the Erie County District Attorneys Office announced.

According to officials, 47-year-old Hector Colon forcibly stole merchandise and two fragrance sets worth a total value of $330 from a department store in the Walden Galleria around 4:18 p.m. Nov. 25, 2023.

The stores asset protection officers confronted Colon as he exited the store. Colon allegedly threatened them both with a pocketknife before fleeing the scene. He was apprehended by Cheektowaga Police a short time later.

Colon pleaded guilty to one count of third-degree robbery in May. He is prohibited from entering the store with a final stay-away order as part of his sentence.

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Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
KIEV, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed the legislation to extend the current martial law and general military mobilization in Ukraine for another 90 days, the parliament press service reported Wednesday.

The two restrictive measures, due to expire on Sunday, were prolonged until Nov. 9.

The parliament endorsed the bills on extending martial law and mobilization on July 23.

The Ukrainian parliament imposed martial law and declared mobilization in February 2022 in the wake of the conflict with Russia. 
Bulgaria's 'There Is Such a People' (ITN) party on Monday returned the third government-forming mandate to President Rumen Radev after coalition talks failed. Thus, Bulgarians will have to elect the composition of the 51st National Assembly, probably in October.

This will be the seventh early vote in just over three years. Of the six elections since 2021, only two have produced an elected government.

"We found that we have no particular differences with the other parties and we could work together, but the political wisdom of one party was not enough," the chairman of the parliamentary group of ITN, Toshko Yordanov, commented.

"Thank you for your trust in handing over the mandate to us. I dont need to tell you what happened because it was public. If there is any positivity in what happened, it is that we talked to all the political parties except one. This did not happen either with the first or second mandate," Toshko Yordanov said.

For his part, the president thanked ITN for trying to fulfil the mandate and commented that going to another early election casts doubt on whether being a parliamentarian is the most effective form of functioning of the state.

"The election spiral continues to rage and not only causes irritation but also unlocks a number of destructive processes, blockage of several institutions, and alienation of citizens.

The solution to the crisis is in the hands of the political parties, and they must accept that the basis for creating a successful coalition, is not after the elections, but before them," Bulgarian President Rumen Radev said.

Radev also called on the parties to ensure fair play in the coming weeks. He added that today he would invite the Speaker of Parliament, Raya Nazaryan, to discuss the choice of the future caretaker Prime Minister.

The president, after consultation with the parliamentary groups, is expected to appoint a caretaker government on the proposal of the candidate for caretaker prime minister and schedule new elections within two months.

The president can choose a caretaker prime minister from the speaker of the National Assembly, the governor or deputy governor of the Bulgarian National Bank, the chairman or deputy chairman of the Audit Chamber, and the ombudsman or his deputy.

That caretaker government would be the successor-in-office of the current one, which was appointed in April 2024.

Having received the mandate from Radev on July 29, after the first two bids by Parliaments two largest groups, Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria (GERB) and We Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria (PP-DB), came to nothing, ITN invited all other parliamentary groups and independent MPs for talks.

ITN called these talks an exploration of common ground on policies ahead of the nomination of an expert government.

With not all groups accepting the invitation and some making it clear in advance that they would not vote for a government nominated with the third mandate, the talks, held in the presence of media cameras, produced no results.

Bulgaria has been plagued by revolving-door governments since 2020 when anti-corruption protests toppled a coalition led by the centre-right GERB party.
The Council of Ministers of Bulgaria has allowed the participation of the Armed Forces of Bulgaria in the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) at a meeting on 7 August.

Source: press service of the Bulgarian government, cited by European Pravda

Details: The Bulgarian government has authorised the participation of the Bulgarian military in the Alliance's initiative to train Ukrainian servicemen.

"By adopting this decision, our state firmly demonstrates its commitment to supporting Ukraine, defending Euro-Atlantic values and reaffirming its solidarity with the Alliance in the joint efforts to maintain international peace and security," the Bulgarian government stressed.

The Bulgarian government added that, given the proximity of the war in Ukraine to Bulgarian borders and the importance of this conflict for the security of Europe, "the contribution of our country to NSATU corresponds to the efforts of other member states of the Alliance".

The number of Bulgarian troops to be involved in the NATO operation is not yet known. Earlier, Bulgaria sent 50 soldiers for the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine), which was also training Ukrainian troops.

The NATO Summit in Washington on 9-11 July coordinated the creation of a new body for providing assistance and training to Ukraine (NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine  NSATU) to coordinate the provision of military equipment and training by NATO member states and partners in the long term.

The summit also adopted the decision regarding the increase of NATO presence in Ukraine, specifically by appointing a special representative in the city of Kyiv.

Read also: What if Trump wins: how NATOs Washington Summit prepared Ukraine for a new US administration

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The City of Burlington has announced that it has been awarded the distinguished All-Star Community Award by the Iowa League of Cities, according to a news release.

This recognition honors Burlingtons exceptional efforts in local government and community improvement through the groundbreaking Burlington Tiger Project  Riverfront. Burlingtons Riverfront Tiger Project is a comprehensive community-led initiative aimed at revitalizing and transforming Burlingtons downtown area.

(burlingtoniowa.org)

The project was launched to address issues such as flooding, economic decline, and vacant storefronts while enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. The project includes Complete Streets, a Linear Multi-Use Park Path, a Community Gathering Area, Transient Boat Docking, River Cruise Line Dock/Port, and extensive flood mitigation measures.

Notable achievements in the redevelopment of the Riverfront area include:

Economic Revitalization: The project has stimulated economic growth by attracting businesses,

investors, and tourists to the downtown area, creating job opportunities, and boosting local

commerce. With over $27 million in private investment and the creation of 150+ apartment

units and retail enhancements, Burlingtons downtown is experiencing a significant resurgence.

Infrastructure Improvements: Major infrastructure upgrades have been made, including

improved pedestrian, bike, and bus transportation modes. Enhanced bus stops, new bike lanes,

and pedestrian corridors have improved safety and connectivity.

Cultural and Recreational Development: The project has enriched the community by promoting

cultural activities, events, and recreational opportunities. The new Community Gathering Area

and riverfront enhancements provide residents and tourists with engaging experiences and a

beauful public space.

Environmental Sustainability: The Burlington Tiger Project incorporates innovative approaches

to storm-water management, green infrastructure, and flood migaon, promoting

environmental sustainability and enhancing water and air quality.

The success of the Burlington Tiger Project was made possible through collaboration with

several key partners, including the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency

Management, Burlington Junction Railroad, the US Environmental Protection Agency, BNSF

Railroad, Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission, Iowa DOT, Veenstra & Kimm, Inc.

Consulting Engineers, and Downtown Partners.

Amy Moyer, executive director of Downtown Partners, Inc, said We cant wait to welcome visitors into the vibrant Riverfront and for the community to make new memories and (re) Discover Downtown Burlington.

The Burlington Tiger Project is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the community,

including economic growth, increased property values, enhanced quality of life, social and

cultural vibrancy, and increased tourism. The projects focus on environmental sustainability and

innovative infrastructure improvements ensures that Burlington remains a dynamic, attractive,

and economically vibrant destination for years to come.

I am thrilled that Burlington is being recognized for its rejuvenation efforts. I am thankful for past and current city councilors and city staff, plus all the community leaders who have had a hand in our success. Most importantly I thank our citizens for their patience and tireless support! Im very proud to be their mayor! added Burlington Mayor Jon Billups.

To learn more about the Burlington Tiger Project and the All-Star Community Award, visit here.



This award highlights Burlingtons commitment to progress, innovation, and community

engagement, seng a benchmark for excellence in local government across Iowa. The city looks

forward to connuing its mission to create a thriving and sustainable community for all

residents and visitors.

The Iowa League of Cities All-Star Community Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in

local government. They provide a platform for cities to showcase their outstanding initiatives,

share best practices, and highlight their dedication to enhancing community life. The awards are

open to all member cities, and each city can submit one entry annually for projects or programs

completed or operational within the previous 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 WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
Incumbent U.S. Rep. Eric Burlison survived a crowded Republican primary Tuesday, setting up a November general election that will see him face Democrat Missi Hesketh and Libertarian Kevin Craig in the race for Missouri's 7th District.

Burlison posted a commanding lead early in the evening, finishing with 83.1% of the Republican vote, according to unofficial statewide results.

Burlison has held the District 7 seat since 2022, replacing Rep. Billy Long. He previously served in the Missouri Senate, representing parts of Greene and Christian counties, from 2019 to 2023, and before that as the representative for Missouri House District 133.

Burlison has said he wants to address legislation that deals with the trucking industry, issues property owners run into when dealing with the Army Corp of Engineers, to limit the size and scope of the federal and reduce government spending.

More: Missouri Congressman Eric Burlison faces primary election challengers. What to know

Hesketh is the mayor of Forsyth, Missouri, and a former city councilwoman. If elected, Hesketh wants to address poverty in the district, ensure reproductive rights and push for common sense gun reform.

Craig is a California native who, if elected, wants to abolish agencies he finds unconstitutional and wants to abolish "arguably constitutional" entities as well, such as the post office.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Rep. Eric Burlison to face Forsyth mayor in November general election
Progressives suffered a major blow in Tuesday nights primaries as Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) became the second squad member to lose to a challenger this cycle.

Coming just hours after Vice President Harris announced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate in a move seen as a win for the progressive wing of the party, Bushs loss put internal party frictions over the Israel-Hamas war on full display.

Along with Missouri, voters also headed to the polls in Kansas, Michigan and Washington state to set up key match-ups for November.

Here are five takeaways:

Cori Bush loss raises questions for the squad

Tuesday nights biggest showdown was in Missouris 1st Congressional District, where Bush lost to St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, projections show.

Bushs defeat makes her the second member of the squad to lose reelection after Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D) lost his seat in New York earlier this year.

Bell, who beat a longtime incumbent to win his prosecutor seat back in 2018, dropped his Senate bid to vie for Bushs spot in the House this cycle. The race drew heavy outside spending amid growing anger over Bushs stance on Israel as well as other controversies surrounding her, including a federal investigation into how she was using campaign funds.

Her defeat will raise further questions about the future of progressive power in Congress and could put the squad in a defensive posture heading into November and beyond. In particular, it could force progressives to reckon with how to defeat well-funded primary challengers such as Bell.

With that said, not all of the news this election cycle was bad for the squad  other high-profile members, including Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) and Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), are likely to win reelection handily. And another progressive, Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.), won her primary challenge earlier this year despite being outspent.

Another big win for AIPAC

Bushs primary loss was also the latest victory for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the pro-Israel lobbying organization that has increasingly flexed its muscles in primaries over the last couple of years.

AIPACs super PAC spent big to unseat her in the primary, reportedly throwing more than $8 million into the race. The group had also spent millions to elevate Westchester County Executive George Latimer in the race for Bowmans seat in New Yorks 16th Congressional District, fueling progressive outrage.

The groups opposition to Bush came in response to her vocal criticism of Israels war against Hamas, the U.S.-designated terrorist organization ruling Gaza.

She was one of just a few House members who opposed a resolution that expressed support for Israel last year, and when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress last month, Bush called it sickening that Congress gave him a standing ovation.

As Bowman was unseated, Bush called AIPAC a threat to Democracy and accused the group of working to silence the voices of progress and justice.

Bushs primary is just the latest instance of the Israel-Hamas war looming large over the Democratic Party in races up and down ballot this cycle. Before he exited the White House race, President Biden faced substantial backlash over the administrations handling of the conflict.

A key Senate race is solidified

Tuesday night solidified the Senate race in Michigan in November, one of the key contests that will help determine control of the upper chamber.

Three-term Rep. Elissa Slotkin (Mich.) won the Democratic primary in her bid to replace retiring Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D), while Trump-backed former Rep. Mike Rogers (Mich.) won his Republican primary, projections show.

Rogers was recruited by the Senate GOP campaign arm to run for the open seat, with the party seeing it as a key pickup opportunity. Republicans are giddy over what some say is the partys best map in years to win the Senate, which Democrats currently hold by a razor-thin majority.

Slotkin is running with Stabenows endorsement and forecasts from The Hill and Decision Desk HQ show her with a 66 percent chance of beating Rogers in November.

The Great Lakes State is also a crucial battleground in the presidential race.

After Biden saw significant protest votes from his own party in the Michigan primary earlier this year, the nonpartisan Cook Political Report shifted the Senate race to a toss up. Now, with just more than 90 days to go until Election Day, its unclear how the newly formed Harris-Walz ticket will impact the fight for the upper-chamber seat, though many Democrats argue the new vice president contenders Midwestern roots will help the party in the traditional blue wall states.

A pro-impeachment Republican battles for survival

One of the 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach former President Trump following the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack is fighting to hold on to his seat in Washingtons 4th Congressional District.

As of late Tuesday night, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) looked poised to advance out of the crowded nonpartisan primary alongside Trump-backed Republican Jerrod Sessler, teeing up a competitive general contest. However, there were still many ballots left to count as of publication time, and Newhouse was running not too far ahead of GOP candidate Tiffany Smiley, who was in third place.

Newhouse defeated Sessler and Trump-endorsed Loren Culp in the primary two years ago, and went on to win reelection to the red central Washington seat in the midterms.

But his impeachment vote has made him a continued political target. In backing Sessler this cycle, Trump called Newhouse a weak and pathetic RINO who voted to, for no reason, Impeach me.

Newhouse is one of just two pro-impeachment GOP lawmakers left in the lower chamber, and his fall contest will be a test of survival against Trumps fury at the Republicans who turned against him after Jan. 6.

Election conspiracies might have cost Kansas official his office

The sheriff of Kansass most populous county appeared poised to lose his reelection bid Tuesday amid frustration over a controversial investigation into alleged election fraud.

Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden kickstarted an investigation after the 2020 election, despite claims from local officials that there was no widespread fraud, as reported by The Associated Press.

Hayden paused the investigation last month after producing no criminal charges and stoking suspicion toward state and local election systems, The Kansas City Star reported.

On Tuesday, Hayden appeared headed for defeat in his GOP primary to Republican Doug Bedford, a former U.S. Navy SEAL who served as Haydens undersheriff from 2017-21. Hell face Democrat Byron Roberson, the police chief of Prairie Village, in the fall.

The incumbents likely defeat comes after he ran unopposed four years earlier, and signals divisions among Republicans in the state surrounding claims of election fraud.

Trump has refused to commit to accepting 2024 results and has continued to tout his debunked claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him, while some in the party have pressed fellow Republicans to move on from the last cycle.

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The Ju/'Hoansi's understanding of native botany has led to many opportunities, with the region's plants serving modern medicine's worldwide. Photograph by Tsumkwe Country Lodge

This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).

On an African safari, its good to adjust your viewpoint from time to time. As your impressions shift, the experience deepens. Wildlife-watching from the deck of a lodge or the back of a safari vehicle can be exciting and inspiring, but thats nothing compared to the thrill of taking the front seat or, even better, exploring a nature reserve on foot. At ground level, sounds and smells seem amplified: the crunch of sand or twigs underfoot, the tang of hot dust, the sweet whiff of wild herbs in the air.

Ready to summon a rush of raw emotions? Try doing what Im doing: hunkering down in the tawny grass for a lions-eye view of things. Its highly unlikely that well be surprised by a big cat here in northeast Namibias Nyae Nyae Conservancy  counting both guides and guests, there are well over a dozen people on my morning bushwalk, and theres safety in numbers. But there are definitely predators in this stretch of the Kalahari Desert, somewhere, and theres every chance that well spot their tracks.

Weve sunk down on our haunches for an impromptu lesson in fire-starting. Our guides are a party of Ju/Hoansi-San (the / denotes one of the 48 different click sounds in their dialect). Dressed for the occasion in traditional antelope skins and beads, theyre showing me some of the old ways.

Prompted by a dignified elder, /Kaece, and his wife, //Oro, the lesson unfolds. It starts, swiftly and simply, with friction. Speed and steadiness is important, and strong hands, says /Kaece via Tsamkgao !I/ae, my Ju/Hoan interpreter.

Also known as gemsbok, the South African oryx are most commonly found in Namibia's Kalahari Desert. Photograph by Henrik Karlsson, Getty Images

Using rapid palm movements to rotate a vertical stick in a notch in a second stick thats laid horizontally, /Kaece generates enough heat to create curls of smoke in a birds nest-like bundle of dry grass beneath. Cupping the grass, he blows softly, jerking his head away with a grin when the first flames leap out. If you think that looks easy, give it a try, says Tsamkgao. I quickly discover its not easy at all.

With hands smarting from the effort, I rise to my feet, feeling slightly giddy. A shimmer of heat haze blurs the horizon. We press on, /Kaece and his extended family leading me along sandy paths trodden by many generations of antelopes. Pausing every so often at a low tree or shrub, they show me which leaves can be chewed or crushed and used as a stomach medicine, antiseptic or stimulant. Next, they demonstrate which tubers, when hacked open, deliver precious drops of water  a crucial resource in this endless-seeming swathe of arid scrubland, devoid of rivers or waterholes. In the Ju/Hoansis gentle company, this sun-baked landscape seems bountiful and positively hospitable, but Im fully aware that if they left me here alone, I wouldnt stand a chance.

Southern Africas San, who sometimes call themselves Bushmen, have always considered themselves the oldest people on Earth. Genetic research suggests that for most of the past 150,000 years, they were the worlds largest ethnic group. In recent centuries, however, they have dwindled to around a hundred thousand, with the Ju/Hoansi a minority within this population: its thought that just a few thousand Ju/Hoan speakers remain.

In the early 20th century, the Ju/Hoansi were still living a nomadic life, hunting and gathering in the wildlife-rich region that later became Etosha National Park. Etosha was recognised as an official reserve in 1907, and within 50 years, the pre-independence apartheid government had driven the nomads out of their traditional hunting grounds or n!ore, the Ju/hoansi word for the place to which you belong. Banned from Etosha, they were pushed east into an isolated, arid and hostile block of the Kalahari that the government called Bushmanland, adjoining the border with Botswana. Most settled in or around the ragged village of Tjum!kui (or Tsumkwe), around 300 miles from Etosha. Forced to abandon their hunter-gatherer lifestyle, the Ju/Hoansi struggled to adjust. Their culture of equality and tolerance was not suited to a system in which the best way to get their voices heard was to appoint leaders and committees, and they have been marginalised ever since.

Ecotourism projects like my bushwalk offer glimmers of hope, however. Run by the Ju/Hoansi on their own terms, they generate funds for the communities, while protecting nature and keeping ancestral skills alive. The Ju/Hoansis understanding of native botany has created other opportunities, too: a root called devils claw, for example, is in international demand as an anti-inflammatory treatment for rheumatism and arthritis.

Whether its for tourists or for medicine, its our knowledge of plants in the bush that pays for modern essentials like transport and schooling, says Tsamkgao. If things were different and we didnt need money, we could survive by foraging and hunting for just a couple of hours a day, leaving more time for socialising or making art. Its hard to imagine a healthier lifestyle.

Published in the Middle East & Africa Collection 2023/24, distributed with the August 2024 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT)  In Downtown New Bern, community members are planning for the storm and local businesses are helping out with accessibility.

Mitchell Hardware offers tools, equipment and necessary tools for flood prep. The hardware store and restaurant are both staying open for regular and extended hours.

Already were only closed on Sundays and during a storm we are literally open until the very last minute. During Florence it was like the morning of we boarded up and left, said Lindsey Sims, owner of Mitchell Hardware.

Restaurants like Cypress Hall are also staying open, offering places to eat.

A lot of people had canceled for tonight, but then a lot of people have made the reservations. So its its like a ying and the yang. People are coming in and people are weathering the storm, which is great, said Cypress Hall hostess Cathy Lowe.

The restaurant and the hardware store are both planning to stay open for regular and extended hours. Other businesses are doing the same, as long as employees can make it safely to work. New Bern residents are encouraged to put safety first throughout the storm.

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Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said the GOP critics of Vice President Harriss newly announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), are flailing, while dismissing the attacks against the Democratic ticket.

I think theyre flailing right now. They just dont know how to respond to this campaign that, again, as excited as we are about the VP and her running mate, theyre not making it about themselves. Its about all of us, Buttigieg said Tuesday on MSNBCs Inside with Jen Psaki.

Some on the right were quick to slam Harris for choosing Walz, whom former President Trumps campaign labeled far left and a West Coast wannabe.

Of course, theyre trying to say that hes too far left. They say that about literally any Democrat running against literally any Republican, Buttigieg said. If it was [Sen.] Joe Manchin [I-W.Va.], theyd be saying the same thing, because its all they know how to say. Of course, that will be refuted.

Manchin was long considered one of the Senates most moderate Democrats, at times bucking the partys orthodoxies. He changed his party registration to independent in May.

And theyre just  the Trump campaign doesnt quite know what to do, Buttigieg added. They also definitely dont know what to do with any effort to unify the country. So, theyre going back to what they always do, which is division.

Shortly after Trump was shot in the ear in a failed assassination attempt last month, he called on the nation to stand united, though these calls quickly dissipated, especially after President Biden ended his candidacy and endorsed Harris to run as his successor.

Buttigieg pointed to Trumps remarks last week at the National Association for Black Journalists (NABJ) convention, during which the former president questioned Harriss racial identity.

You saw it with the abhorrent remarks from Donald Trump at NABJ, really trying to shift the conversation from all of us to him by blurting out these racially charged remarks at the National Association of Black Journalists, Buttigieg said Tuesday. Wisely, cleverly, I think Kamala Harris responded to it, condemned it, but then dismissed it and got right back to her message. And I think thats going to be the same response you will see here.

Walz, who leads a blue-leaning state, emerged as a dark horse contender and grasped national attention after he labeled the former president and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), as weird.

Buttigieg, whose name was floated for a potential running mate for Harris, recommended the Harris-Walz campaign not take the bait, warning the GOP will try to redirect the conversation.

And I think the more the Trump campaign flails in that old, dark, divisive mode, yes, they will grab some attention here and there for whatever outrageous claims they make about our ticket, but I dont think a lot of its going to stick because none of its true and, maybe most importantly, because I think people are just kind of bored with that sort of thing, he said.

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CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Caddo Parish School employees will receive a $2,500 stipend for demonstrating remarkable resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Caddo Parish School Board (CPSB) detailed in a press release that on Tuesday, the school board approved a one-time payment from federal COVID relief funds, which expire on September 20.

The payment will go to all district personnel currently employed and eligible for benefits on September 1.

CPSB states the payment is in addition to the one-time stipend the state provides for teachers and school employees: $2,000 for certified staff and $1,000 for support staff.

LEAP scores show literacy gains; LDOE hopes aggressive policy will boost math progress

According to the Caddo Schools website, the district is comprised of nearly 60 schools, including 12 national blue ribbon schools of excellence.

Throughout the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, our dedicated employees have demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment to the education and

well-being of our students,

In recognition of their hard work and as a testament to our commitment to supporting our staff, we are pleased to announce a one-time stipend of $2,500, made possible through the careful and strategic use of ESSER and federal COVID relief funds. As good fiscal stewards, we have ensured that these resources were managed effectively to provide this much-deserved financial support. With the funds set to expire at the end of September, it was imperative that we act swiftly to prioritize the needs of our employees, who have continually gone above and beyond for our students and community, stated Interim Superintendent Leisa G. Woolfolk.

This Back-to-School stipend will be paid to eligible employees on September 13.

Caddo school board opposes changes to Title IX

According to the news release, employees must be active on the payment date to qualify for the stipend. They note, Part-time employees that are eligible for benefits will receive pro-rated compensation based on the amount of time worked.

These stipends are a small token of our gratitude for the hard work of our teachers and support staff as we begin a new school year, said Board President Jessica Yeates.

CPSB notes they are actively hiring teachers and support staff for the 2024-2025 school year, new teachers hired by September 1 will be eligible for the Board and state approved one-time supplements, but also a $1,000 new hire stipend.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MOSCOW, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday that the Ukrainian forces launched a massive attack on the defense positions in Russia's Kursk region at 8:00 a.m. local time (0500 GMT).

In its Telegram channel, the defense ministry said that up to 300 soldiers from Ukraine's 22nd Mechanized Brigade, supported by 11 tanks and over 20 armored combat vehicles, attacked the Russian border defense positions near the settlements of Nikolaevo-Daryino and Oleshnya.

The Russian border defense units and the Federal Security Service's border troops have repelled the attacks and delivered heavy fire against the Ukrainian forces at the border and in the Sumy region.

Alexey Smirnov, the acting governor of the Kursk region, said that 18 people were injured due to the attacks. 
Two years after Los Angeles County sheriffs deputies showed up with guns and battering rams for an early morning raid on Sheila Kuehls home in Santa Monica, the investigation is officially over  and there will be no criminal charges.

Instead, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge William Ryan approved an agreement Wednesday in which the California Department of Justice said there was a lack of evidence of wrongdoing. The department had taken over the politically charged investigation originally launched by then-L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanuevas controversial public corruption squad.

The DOJ has conducted a thorough and independent investigation into the allegations that formed the basis of the LASD investigation, state prosecutors wrote. The DOJ has concluded, based on this independent investigation, that there is insufficient evidence to support the filing of any criminal charges.

The case had centered on more than $800,000 worth of contracts Metro awarded to Peace Over Violence, a nonprofit run by Patti Giggans  one of Kuehls friends and Villanuevas critics. The organization had been tasked with running a hotline for reporting sexual harassment on the public transit system, but the agreement to do so came under scrutiny after a whistleblower alleged that Giggans had been unfairly awarded the contract as a quid pro quo for supporting Kuehl, a former Los Angeles County supervisor.

The investigation eventually ballooned into other allegations, including the claim  repeated frequently by Villanueva  that county Inspector General Max Huntsman had been involved in tipping off Kuehl before the search of her home, as well as Giggans' home and the nonprofit's offices.

Days after the raids, state Atty. Gen. Rob Bontas office took the investigation from the Sheriffs Department. For two years, the state quietly investigated the matter while Villanueva fulminated about it at seemingly every opportunity. He referred to Kuehl and Huntsman as felony suspects and seized on the case as a way to undermine some of the most vocal critics overseeing his department. In an emailed comment to The Times, Villanueva said that Wednesday's outcome "smacks of public corruption" and that the state Department of Justice had "abdicated" its responsibility to Californians.

In a news release, Bonta's office reiterated the terms of the agreement, saying the agency "has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to support the filing of charges based on the MTAs awarding of a sole-source contract to POV, or on the campaign contributions received by Supervisor Kuehl from persons affiliated with POV. Further, DOJ has found insufficient evidence to file charges for interference with a search warrant. DOJ has therefore closed the investigation into this matter."

To Kuehl, who decided to retire in 2022, Wednesday's outcome came as a vindication.

"I think its a pure victory," she said. "Because there was never anything there, and it was all made up by the sheriff."

A lawyer representing both Metro and the county offered similar enthusiasm about the outcome.

"We are pleased that the Attorney Generals Office recognized what those wrongly accused in this case by the former sheriff have been saying for almost two years at this point: that this investigation lacked any proper basis and was a blatant and obscene abuse of the former sheriffs authority, executed in an attempt to bully and stifle his critics," attorney Robert Dugdale told The Times in an email. "Anyone interested in the proper administration of the rule of law should be grateful that this investigation has reached this fitting end."

The conclusion to the case comes weeks after The Times revealed that state prosecutors also recently turned down another high-profile investigation spearheaded by the same public corruption squad. In that case, investigators had accused Huntsman and several others  including a former Times reporter  of a variety of felonies involving supposedly stolen records and leaked documents. Federal and state authorities repeatedly rejected the case, and at one point a legal advisor for the county warned department officials that it was not legally viable.

That inquiry  along with the Kuehl investigation  served as one of Villanuevas chief criticisms of the county watchdog. At one point, he cited it as part of the justification for locking Huntsman out of department databases. At least twice, he asked county officials to remove Huntsman from his job. But now, after years of legal wrangling, Huntsman is apparently no longer in the crosshairs of investigations launched by the agency he oversees.

Read more: Times reporter was leaked list of problem deputies. The Sheriff's Department investigated her

In an emailed statement, the Sheriff's Department said it was limited in what it could disclose because the case had been taken over by the state.

"We respect the Attorney Generals decision and will continue to fully cooperate with any related inquiries or oversight," the statement continued.

Though the raids took place in the fall of 2022, the supposed corruption that led to them allegedly started years earlier.

Amid persistent complaints about sexual harassment and groping on local buses and subway rides in 2013 and 2014, Metro turned to Peace Over Violence for help. The Metro spokesman at the time later said he found the organization from an internet search. He cold-called Giggans, and she started informally collaborating with Metro, helping officials come up with an ad strategy and an anti-harassment slogan: Its Off Limits.

Eventually, Giggans said, her organization would need to get paid if Metro officials wanted more of her help. So in 2015 and 2016, Peace Over Violence received $105,000 for consulting work, as The Times previously reported.

Though Kuehl was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2014 and served on the Metro board of directors in that capacity, Metro officials said she had nothing to do with the initial anti-harassment efforts.

The scope of that work grew after three Metro board members  including Kuehl  asked staff to hire an outside group that could offer support to victims as one way of addressing the ongoing problems without relying more on police.

Then Peace Over Violence proposed a 24-hour hotline for $160,000 a year. The hotline launched in early 2017, and Metro staff extended the contract three more years for an additional $495,000  a decision that did not require board approval, meaning Kuehl had no say.

The hotline was overseen by Jennifer Loew, then a Metro employee. But by 2019, as The Times previously reported , Loew was starting to run into trouble at work. She was eventually admonished after an internal investigation found that shed been intimidating to staff.

A few weeks later, court records show Loew began alleging corruption at Metro  and she focused her claims on the Peace Over Violence contracts, which she said had been awarded in return for $2,000 Giggans donated to Kuehls campaign in 2013 and 2014. Metro staff, Loew said, pushed the deals forward to stay in Kuehls good graces.

First, Loew asked Metros inspector general to investigate. She also asked the FBI, the Los Angeles Police Department and the L.A. County district attorneys office to take up the case. There was no sign any of them took interest, but in September 2019, the Sheriffs Department sent detectives to investigate Loews report.

The detectives were from the public corruption unit, which critics said Villanueva used to target his political enemies. It was the same unit whose activities the Civilian Oversight Commission, of which Giggans has long been a member, later condemned in a 10-page memo calling for an investigation into whether Villanueva was abusing his power.

The units first search warrants in the Peace Over Violence inquiry were carried out in February 2021. Investigators targeted the offices of the nonprofit as well as of Metro and the Metro inspector general. Peace Over Violence turned over boxes of records. Metro and its inspector general questioned the investigations legitimacy and went to court to challenge the warrants.

That fall, the Sheriffs Department took its evidence to local prosecutors and asked them to consider filing charges. Prosecutors refused, saying the evidence didnt prove beyond a reasonable doubt that anyone had committed a crime. The Sheriffs Department kept investigating. Though he frequently spoke and posted about the inquiry online, Villanueva said he recused himself from the case, as well as from other cases handled by his public corruption unit.

In the fall of 2022, Superior Court Judge Eleanor Hunter told the Sheriffs Department that if investigators wanted to carry out more searches they needed to narrow the scope of the warrants they were seeking. But the following week, while Hunter was on vacation, Max Fernandez  the lead investigator on the case  took a new batch of warrant requests to a different judge and got approval for the raids, saying they might reveal evidence of bribery and other crimes.

The statement Fernandez presented to the court to justify the warrants also alleged the Peace Over Violence hotline was a complete failure and, despite that, the contract had been extended without a competitive bid or analysis. Outside the courtroom Wednesday, Fernandez declined to comment on the case or its outcome.

Read more: Inside the Sheriff's Department's secretive investigation into Villanueva's critics

Just after 7 a.m. on Sept. 14, 2022, deputies started pounding on the door of Kuehls Santa Monica home. They went inside, escorted Kuehl outside barefoot and took her phone. Investigators also searched Giggans home, Peace Over Violence offices and several other buildings downtown.

In an interview outside her house while the search was underway, Kuehl called the allegations against her totally bogus and said she didnt know anything about the contract. Then, she said the countys lawyer had alerted her to the impending search in advance.

Afterward, Villanueva sent a letter to Bonta asking him to open a criminal inquiry into the early warning Kuehl had received  a warning for which Villanueva blamed Huntsman. Huntsman denied the allegations and said phone records would clear him.

Just as they had the first time around, the searches sparked a months-long legal battle over the warrants that allowed them  a battle that continued even after Bontas office took over the case. In the agreement approved this week, the state agreed to quash the warrants and return the confiscated items.

Though the case is over and the public corruption unit is now defunct, the political tensions that led to it could still be the fodder for future lines of inquiry  this time into the unit and its activities. According to Sean Kennedy, a Civilian Oversight Commission member who represented Giggans during the probe, in recent weeks the watchdog group has been attempting to subpoena testimony from Fernandez, who is still with the Sheriff's Department.

Im concerned that there is a deputy gang connection, Kennedy told The Times. Several sources have told me the public corruption detail was hand-selected by former Sheriff Villaneuva and former Undersheriff Tim Murakami. Weve already learned Murakami is a tattooed Caveman and lied about his tattoo for years. Were deeply concerned if the public corruption detail is or was being used to dissuade oversight officials from investigating deputy gangs in the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department.

Though he didn't offer any comment on the resolution of the allegations against him, Huntsman told The Times that the Office of Inspector General has been assisting the commission in its inquiry, and he said the outcome of the case opened the door to further investigation.

"With the warrant quashed and the AGs criminal investigation finally concluded," he said, "we will attempt a review of remaining records to evaluate media reports of surveillance and use of public funds for political purposes."

Meanwhile, Giggans vowed to continued her work as an oversight commissioner and said she'd maintained her dignity and integrity through Villanueva's censure.

"One of the main reasons that this all happened was retaliation for my participation as a commissioner," she said. "But Im still here and hes on a 'Do Not Rehire' list."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Cal Fire crews work to contain northeast portion of the Park Fire: Stay in the fight

Thick smoke from the Park Fire burning northeast of Chico was expected to increase humidity and slightly cool active parts of the Northern California wildfire until later Wednesday afternoon.

The Park Fire, as of Wednesday morning, had burned a total of 420,827 acres (657 square miles), and containment of the wildfire remained 34%, according to Cal Fire. The fire has burned more than 367,000 acres in Tehama County and nearly 53,000 acres in Butte County. The wildfire has also affected areas in Plumas and Shasta counties.

The wildfire remained active overnight due to poor humidity recovery, producing uphill runs and intense fire behavior, according to a Cal Fire Wednesday morning situation summary. Cal Fire officials expect the blaze to continue to burn actively, moving to the north and east, ascending slopes with critically dry vegetation.

Cal Fire Incident Commander Billy See, speaking at a Wednesday morning operational briefing, said hes concerned about what will happen when the smoke dissipates and humidity levels drop over areas where the flames are actively burning.

The lid is on this thing right now, its preheating, See told firefighters preparing for the day shift. Once we get a breath of fresh air, this thing is going to want to stand up and move.

He asked fire crews to pay attention to their surroundings and the fire behavior, and disengage when they need to for their own safety and re-engage the blaze when the time is right.

Ground crews continue to battle high heat and deep drainages, engaging the fire offensively where its safe to do so, according to Cal Fire. Officials expect a weather system to move into the area later in the week, bringing an increase in humidity.

The Park Fire remained the fourth-largest wildfire in California recorded history. The August Complex Fire that burned 1.032 million acres in seven Northern California counties is the largest in state history; it killed one person and destroyed 935 structures.

Mark Brunton, Cal Fire operations Sections chief, asked fire crews to maintain their situational awareness and not get complacent, but they have to still stay aggressive and stay in the fight.

This is the kind of fire behavior that is unprecedented, Brunton said in Wednesday mornings briefing. For this fire to jump up into the top five most destructive fires in California history says something. And youre seeing it out there.

The Park Fire has destroyed 636 structures and damaged 49 others in Butte and Tehama counties, according to Cal Fires revised numbers. The total includes infrastructure.

In Butte County, the fire destroyed 428 structures and damaged 47 others. Cal Fire said the fire destroyed 212 structures in Tehama County, damaging five others.

The total acreage burned includes over 107,000 acres in Lassen National Forest. Cal Fire officials said firefighters overnight attacked the fire directly where flames crossed Highway 172, and ground crews and aircraft continued to aggressively attack and hold the fire with safety as their top priority.

Wednesday marked the 14th day the Park Fire has been burning since it started in Butte County just east of Chico in a suspected act of arson.

Ronnie Dean Stout II, 42, of Chico is accused of pushing a a burning car into a gully in Upper Bidwell on July 24, igniting what would become the Park Fire before emerging from heavy vegetation along the hiking path and joining evacuees fleeing the area, prosecutors have said.
California agency enforces laws for workers. But 2 of its officials were charged with crimes

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.

Cal-OSHA, the state agency dedicated to enforcing workplace standards, vowed to take a tough stand against corruption following the 2018 arrest of one of its managers. But the agency continued to pay him hundreds of thousands of dollars and knowingly hired another person awaiting trial for corruption for the same district office.

Richard Fazlollahi, the Santa Ana District Office district manager, was taken away in handcuffs in June 2018. The district manager was ultimately convicted in 2021 for conspiracy in a scheme involving cash payments in return for slashing penalties in cases that included grievous injuries.

It was absolutely shocking when he was arrested, said Michael Loupe, the current district manager for Cal-OSHAs office in San Bernardino. Loupe also worked with Fazlollahi in Santa Ana.

Cal-OSHA kept Fazlollahi on staff for an additional year. In 2019, the year after he was arrested, between extra pay, a full year of retirement earnings and his salary for six months, the sidelined district manager doubled his usual compensation, earning nearly $400,000. Fazlollahi, charged with 25 felonies, ultimately pleaded guilty to 14.

Fazlollahi also allegedly affected an Orange County criminal case, according to district attorney emails. They show he became involved with a manslaughter investigation related to the 2015 death of a worker, causing the criminal case against the employer to be dropped.

A Cal-OSHA spokesperson pledged, following Fazlollahis arrest, to take a no-tolerance approach to malfeasance.

But months after the district managers arrest, the same district office hired another official who faced criminal charges. The agency hired Jason Okonkwo as a safety inspector at the same Santa Ana district office. He was awaiting trial on felony charges of embezzlement, money laundering and public funds misuse at a Los Angeles charter school.

Cal-OSHA faces scrutiny for not only allowing the hire of an official accused of corruption, but the lack of other hires  the department suffers from understaffing  and how that staffing problem affects its execution of its main mission, to keep workers in California safe.

The state of the department, according to a former chief, should be addressed in the state Senate confirmation hearings for newly-appointed head, Debra Lee. Gov. Gavin Newsom in June selected Lee, who was deputy director overseeing Fazlollahi and allowed the Okonkwo hire despite concerns raised by multiple other officials.

A hearing date for the Senate confirmation has not been set yet.

Cal-OSHA is about fairness and protecting the rights of people. Everyone deserves fairness, including Debra Lee, said Ellen Widess who served under Gov. Jerry Brown as Cal-OSHA chief. But hiring someone facing corruption, especially after a horrible breach of trust in the same office defies common sense. As chief, I would have put that (Okonkwo) hire on hold, pending adjudication.

Cal-OSHA did not investigate

Fazlollahi was arrested in 2018, but a plea deal was not reached until 2021. Cal-OSHA spokesman Peter Melton said the agency did not investigate Fazlollahi following his arrest because it was instructed not to do so by the state Attorney Generals Office. The AGs office would not comment.

The extent of Fazlollahis corruption is not widely known, even within Cal-OSHA. The initial criminal complaint and the state Department of Justice news release only mentioned a bribe for concrete work. The 24 additional felony charges were added later.

Several Cal-OSHA criminal investigators tried to bring attention to the Okonkwo hire, including writing to Newsom and filing a complaint with the Department of Industrial Relations HR department. The investigators said in interviews that Lee retaliated against them, an accusation the department denies.

She was then in charge of Cal-OSHAs enforcement division where Fazlollahi and Okonkwo worked.

Cal-OSHA did not respond to specific questions about Lees oversight role. Melton said in an email that we can discuss a potential interview with Chief Lee once we get closer to a confirmation date.

Widess said that she views concerns about tolerance for corruption at Cal-OSHAs Santa Ana office as symptomatic of broader leadership and cultural problems at Cal-OSHA.

She pointed to an emotional assembly hearing in February in which farm workers and advocates complained that Cal-OSHA employees were tipping off employers about inspections, allowing them to mask dangerous problems.

Following the hearing, an audit spearheaded by Assembly Labor Committee Chairperson Liz Ortega has been undertaken by the California state auditor.

While it is widely known that Cal-OSHA is understaffed, we know very little about the inspection and citation process, Ortega said at a May 14 hearing of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee.

Several current and former Cal-OSHA officials, including Widess, said that during confirmation hearings Lee should be asked about her response to corruption at the Santa Ana office and alleged retaliation against whistleblowers.

I had tough questions during confirmation, Widess said. These are appropriate questions.

What we found

Court documents, agency records, emails and interviews show the Fazlollahi bribery case was more than the DOJs single incident:

According to court documents and an analysis of publicly available OSHA data, hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines for life-altering injuries were slashed or eliminated by Fazlollahi in cases in which he also accepted bribes.

A manslaughter case in Orange County was dropped in 2017 because of Fazlollahis actions, according to an email from the district attorney. Records show Fazlollahi violated Cal-OSHA rules, downgraded violations and withdrew $40,000 in fines against a company when 21-year-old Kevin Morales plummeted to his death from a roof.

Following Fazlollahis conviction in 2021, Cal-OSHA failed to contact CalPERS, Californias public retirement system, to inform it that the district manager had been convicted of a felony, which would have required him to forfeit part of his pension. CalPERS told The Bee that while employers are required by law to notify CalPERS of an employees felony conviction, CalPERS is not always timely informed, as was the case for Richard Fazlollahi. We encourage the reporting of this information and will investigate notifications received from other sources, including the media. Cal-OSHA did not respond to questions about Fazlollahis retirement.

Okonkwo was awaiting trial for charges related to conduct at a Los Angeles charter school, according to court documents. Cal-OSHA officials pleaded with the agency to rescind the hire, according to emails and accounts of two officials.

Okonkwo also had a restraining order filed against him by Carol Lee Tolbert, a charter school board member. I dont know how Jason Okonkwo could be in charge of making any workplace safe, said Carol Lee Tolbert. He did not make me feel safe. Tolbert had been tasked with cleaning up financial practices at Thee Wisdom School for Young Scientists.

Obstruction in a manslaughter case?

Fazlollahi was charged with orchestrating a bribery scheme involving 14 different companies.

The Department of Justice complaint addressed conduct between 2017 and June 2018. The scheme unraveled after Cemex, a company from which Fazlollahi solicited a bribe for stamped concrete for his backyard, reported the extortion attempt to law enforcement.

The bribery conspiracy also involved Noushin Dehnadi, an employment attorney who was indicted with Fazlollahi. She was also convicted.

Kevin Bland, a well-known employer attorney who specializes in OSHA-related cases, said that he repeatedly heard from potential clients that Fazlollahi wanted them to use her rather than me.

All the criminal charges against Fazlollahi involved cases in which he forced employers to hire Dehnadi with the promise that he would eliminate fines and citations at informal conferences. Dehnadi then paid him thousands in cash.

Current and former Cal-OSHA officials said they believed the problems at the Santa Ana office were more extensive, involving more than 14 cases with Dehnadi.

Kevin Morales, 21, plummeted to his death from a roof in an Orange County work-related accident in 2015.

One other case did not involve Dehnadi. The involved the 2015 death of a day laborer Morales, who had been hired to paint the exterior of an apartment complex and fell to his death.

Another division of Cal-OSHA had recommended criminal charges for negligence leading to the death. Fazlollahi eliminated the two accident-related citations which were the crux of the case, causing the Orange County district attorney to drop the inquiry, according to emails, interviews and a review of hundreds of pages of documents.

Fines slashed

The DOJs criminal charges against Fazlollahi involved bribes involving 14 different companies, paid through kickbacks involving Dehnadi.

While the DOJs investigation focused on the bribery scheme, an examination of the underlying cases related to bribes shows that Fazlollahi reduced fines involving grievous injuries, including amputations.

Fazlollahi, for example, steered Irvine-based Orange Bakery in 2017 to Dehnadi, according to court documents. After he acknowledged in a plea deal that he received a kickback from Dehnadi, Fazlollahi reduced a $45,000 fine to $2,000. The bakery was not charged and assisted with the prosecution.

The fines were connected to an employee who, according to a Cal-OSHA accident report, sustained severe lacerations on his hand cleaning a baking machine that lacked proper lockout tagout procedures, meaning it could be turned on while cleaning.

The following year, two months after Fazlollahis arrest, a more grievous accident occurred at Orange Bakery. It was caused by similar safety violations.

A national OSHA website that lists fines and violations states: The employees right hand was underneath the cutter when it came down and amputated several fingers.

The company was fined $50,800 this time.

Why was he still employed?

Loupe said that it raises a lot of questions that Fazlollahi was kept on salary for an additional year following his arrest, and then given over $201,000 in other pay above and beyond his usual salary.

Melton said his continued employment was because of the DOJ criminal case.

Richard Fazlollahi was promptly placed on Administrative Time Off (ATO) in 2018 after his arrest, Melton said in an email. At the specific request of the Office of the Attorney General, however, which was handling the investigation and prosecution, DIR refrained from undertaking its own investigation or proceeding with disciplinary action so as not to interfere with the Attorney Generals action.

Melton did not respond to follow-up questions about who at the DOJ told Cal-OSHA to refrain from its own investigations.





The Attorney Generals Office said in an emailed response to questions about Cal-OSHAs assertion that we generally do not comment on investigations, closed or ongoing.

The Bee filed a public records request with Cal-OSHA for documents related to $201,000 in other pay Fazlollahi received in 2019. The agency responded that it had located records, but said they were being withheld because they are exempt from disclosure. The Bee has asked for a list of documents that the agency withheld, and for the specific reasons they are exempt under California public records law.

Multiple current and former California officials, including Widess, took issue with Cal-OSHAs rationale for continuing to pay Fazlollahi.

A current high-level state official who oversees personnel and administrative decisions at a state agency called Cal-OSHAs statement wrong for a bunch of reasons.

The official, who asked to remain anonymous because they are not authorized to make public comments, said that they had worked with the DOJ several times in cases involving misconduct. The justice department collaborates when an agency has clear cause to terminate who has clearly violated rules, the official said. It is both straightforward and standard practice to bring a case to the state personnel board.

The official said they were confident that Cal-OSHA could have parted ways with Fazlollahi, ceasing payments to him within 60 days.

Corruption is not a ticket for cheeseburgers in paradise, the official said. It shouldnt lead to a two-year paid vacation at taxpayer expense.

The hire that followed

Following Fazlollahis sentencing, Erika Monteroza, the California Department of Industrial Relations spokeswoman, told the trade publication Cal-OSHA Reporter: This criminal case is an example that demonstrates our commitment to cooperate fully in investigations of criminal wrongdoing of our own department. We take allegations of impropriety seriously.

Despite that no-tolerance-to-corruption statement, Cal-OSHA hired Okonkwo. Fazlollahis former supervisor, regional manager Peter Riley, led a hiring committee. Riley retired in 2020.

Chris Kuhns, who was a senior criminal investigator at Cal-OSHAs Bureau of Investigations, was also one of the candidates for the position. He and others at the BOI, said they were frustrated with low pay and Cal-OSHA not re-categorizing their positions for higher pay, had decided to apply for better-paying jobs in the civil enforcement division.

The decision to seek jobs in enforcement led to unexpected tensions between the staff of the BOI and the enforcement division led by Lee, according to interviews with former BOI staff and documents related to an investigation of the BOI employees. All four employees of the department were then under an internal investigation, accused of lying about their qualifications, according to interviews and documents.

Kuhns said a simple Google search revealed an LA Times story about Okonkwo being accused of skimming money and creating bogus contracts. At first, I thought it was an embarrassing mistake, someone had botched the reference check, he said. The guy hadnt started.

Kuhns said he emailed, before and after the Okonkwo hiring, several high-level Cal-OSHA officials, including Lee.

Julio Alfaro, a former senior criminal investigator for the Cal/OSHA Bureau of Investigation, is photographed in San Pablo on May 22, 2024, about two months after he left the agency. Since 2017, he had been the agencys only criminal investigator in Northern California.

Julio Alfaro, another criminal investigator at the BOI aimed even higher, writing then Gov.-Elect Gavin Newsom in December 2018, a few days after Okonkwos start date.

In his letter to Newsom, Alfaro identified himself as a whistleblower and sent documentation about the Okonkwo hire and staffing shortages.

I would greatly appreciate an opportunity to sit down and discuss with you the problems plaguing the DIR and Cal-OSHA in particular.

Alfaro sent a similar letter to then-Assemblyman Rob Bonta in December 2018. Alfaro said he met with a Bonta staff member in his Bay Area office.

Loupe said he understands why the BOI investigators were upset. Rather than hire a perfectly qualified person, he said, the person they hired only qualifications appeared to be felonious.

Cal-OSHA investigators try to understand the new hire

The BOI investigators obtained, through a public records request, Okonkwos application for employment.

The application shows Okonkwo cited among his qualifications his experience at the school where he was alleged to have been engaged in fraud.

The associate safety engineer position Okonkwo was vying for requires either a safety engineering degree, or six years of professional experience. Okonkwos main qualifying experience was eight years at the non-profit that ran the charter school.

Okonkwo stated on his application that he had managed construction projects to ensure projects were delivered safely, on-time, on-budget and with high-quality results.

A review of building permits shows no evidence of significant construction conducted by the school or its organization. The small 40-child charter school occupied the site of a former childcare facility owned by the Okonkwo family. The Los Angeles Building Department issued a change of occupancy permit in 2006 from a childcare facility to a charter school.

In 2016, the California Fair Political Practices Commission fined Okonkwos mother, Kendra Okonkwo (the founder of the school), $16,000 for signing self-dealing leases worth over $170,000 annually for the charter school building she owned without disclosing the conflict.

She was also fined for construction contracts for $61,000 to construct an ADA ramp which had been ordered by building officials.

The FPPC said Kendra Okonkwos governmental decision would have a material financial effect on her real property because bringing Okonkwos property into compliance with the ADA would likely increase the fair market value of the rental property.

According to Jason Okonkwos resume, as Director of Operations, he supervised construction contracts and projects.

What happened with the Okonkwo hire, is symptomatic of a bigger problem with Cal-OSHA enforcement, Loupe said. People can make up elaborate work history to obtain a lucrative job, and no one bothers to see if the application checks out Its a system that lends itself to cronyism.

At Cal-OSHA, Okonkwo was employed as an Cal-OSHA enforcement officer for 11 months, and, according to a list of inspections provided by DIR, was involved in 28 cases.

Melton said in an email: DIR and Cal/OSHA must follow the merit-based hiring process and applicable labor and employment laws. California law generally prohibits asking candidates about criminal arrest history or discriminating against candidates who are not convicted of a crime.

Melton added that DIR does not comment on personnel issues. We can confirm Jason Okonkwo was hired on December 3, 2018, and separated from DIR on November 1, 2019. The separation date was two weeks after Okonkwos guilty plea.

A reference tied to the fraud scheme

According to court documents, a state audit and interviews with three former officials at the school, DIR or Cal-OSHA could have found publicly available documents that led to Okonkwos arrest, allegations of threatening behavior and that he had not been forthcoming about his work experience.

Okonkwo was convicted for creating fake invoices for $200,000 in school supplies that were never ordered and funneling the proceeds into family coffers.

The 2014 publicly available audit performed by the Fiscal Crisis and Assist Team of the California Department of Education, which led to criminal charges against Okonkwo, describes a self-dealing operation that involved well over a million dollars flowing through companies connected to Okonkwos family.

The audit determined that sufficient evidence exists to demonstrate that... management and governing board has failed to cooperate with its oversight agency; is engaged with fiscal mismanagement; violates California conflict of interest laws by engaging in related party transactions and self-dealing; and has breached its fiduciary responsibility and duty of care.

Investigators file complaints

Kuhns, who currently works for Cal-Recycle, said he wrote Lee and other officials at DIR in the weeks before Okonkwos start date warning the hire would compromise Cal-OSHAs integrity.

In March, 2019, three months into Okonkwos tenure, Kuhns wrote a formal complaint to Gailmarie Ignacio, DIRs Human Resources manager.

In the letter, which Kuhns provided to The Bee, Kuhns said that even a  basic inquiry would have revealed that Mr. Okonkwo is currently awaiting trial in Los Angeles County Superior Court for felony embezzlement of public funds in excess of $200,000.00.

Three months after Kuhns filed his complaint with the head of DIRs HR division, Kuhns and Alfaro said all four employees at the BOI (three investigators and a supervisor) were told in June 2019 that Lee wanted to meet with them.

It was really strange, Alfaro said, because enforcement and the BOI are separate divisions, we were not supervised by Debra Lee, but obviously as chief of enforcement she carries a lot of weight. It wasnt the kind of meeting we could refuse.

At the meeting, Alfaro and Kuhns said that Lee shared a work expectations memo. Among the expectations in the document: You are expected to direct communications and concerns to your immediate supervisor. It is generally unacceptable to bypass a level of supervision and go directly to a higher level.

Copies of the workplace memo show that Alfaro and Kuhns declined to sign, with a note saying that they needed to consult with their union representative. Both Alfaro and Kuhns said that they believe that the document and Lees insistence that they sign it was connected to the concerns they had raised over the Okonkwo hire and about staffing shortages.

Widess said that it is very concerning that multiple former criminal investigators are alleging that they were retaliated against. Retaliating against whistleblowers is unacceptable, she said. People should feel safe to come forward to share their concerns, without fear of retribution.

Widess said that she thought that Lee should be asked about the allegation of retaliation at her confirmation hearing.

DIRs Melton denied the work expectation memo or Lees involvement involved any kind of retaliation.

The characterization of a work expectations memo as punitive in nature is inaccurate, he said in an emailed statement. Sharing workplace expectations with our teams is about fostering collaboration and effective internal communication; it is not disciplinary in any way, and the words punishment or discipline do not appear in these types of memos.

Alfaro and Kuhns said BOI was under investigation for over a year by DIRs directors office. Ultimately DIR cleared the BOI employees of any wrongdoing. Kuhns provided a letter he received dated Aug. 24, 2020. The letter stated on August 2, 2019, you participated in an investigatory interviewThe investigation was closed with a finding of unfounded. No further action, including discipline, will be taken.

Melton did not directly respond to questions about the internal investigation. In a statement Melton said, All employees are provided the California State Auditor Whistleblower Hotline annually and informed of their rights and safeguards under the California Whistleblower Protection Act.

Cases under scrutiny

Okonkwo pleaded guilty to felony misappropriation of public funds on Oct. 15, 2019. Two weeks later, on Nov. 1, he was separated from Cal-OSHA.

Los Angeles Countys DA spokeswoman Vanusse Dunn said: The Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office believes that its successful prosecution of the defendant in this case served to protect the public from further corruption, both as to this defendant and as to others who are aware of our efforts in this case.

Cal-OSHA denies the agency did anything inappropriate with the Okonkwo hire.

We are supposed to be keeping the public safe, Loupe said. But the ugly truth is that for people who have a sense of true north, Cal-OSHA is neither a welcoming or safe place right now.
SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY, Cali. (KTXL)  A business in Northern California is at odds with the local government over its ability to fly the American flag.

Camping World RV Sales in San Joaquin County usually has a giant American flag flying over its grounds. That was temporarily halted in April when the San Joaquin County Community Development ordered the business to take the flag down for alleged safety reasons and lack of permission.

There are more than 250 Camping World dealerships throughout the United States, each having the freedom to fly a large American Flag  except the French Camp location in Northern California.

Camping Worlds flagpole was installed with neither a building permit nor planning approval, therefore they are in conversation with the code enforcement division, the county said in a statement to Nexstars KTXL.

San Joaquin County said the issue is about safety and not the flag, citing concerns about the flag poles foundation and proximity to property lines and Interstate 5 should the pole ever fall over.

Although San Joaquin cites the flag as a risk, some people disagree.

Camping Worlds CEO, Marcus Lemonis, found out about the issue and ordered the dealership to restore the American flag to the top of the pole on Monday.

If we felt like if we were putting people in danger or causing any issues with air traffic, which would absolutely not be OK, then I wouldnt do it, Lemonis told KTXL.

Flag Day: Are you displaying the US flag correctly?

Lemonis said Camping Worlds flag is installed sensibly and securely, with severe weather in mind. Its also driven deep into the ground.

He added that if it were a marketing flag on the pole, he might allow it to stay down while the business works out the permitting issues with the county, but the American flag stays, no matter what the county says.

Its symbolism about how we feel about this country. We have a lot of veterans who work for us, and a lot of veterans who shop with us, Lemonis said. I happen to be an immigrant. I was given the blessing of being able to enter this country and become a citizen, and Im grateful for it. Its been part of my life since I was a little child down in Miami, Florida, where we had the largest flag pole in Miami at our car dealership.

Lemonis has fought to keep the flag flying at other Camping World locations before, including in Statesville, North Carolina, where he said he would go to jail before removing the flag.

San Joaquin County said Camping World has applied for a building permit for the flagpole and the application is under review.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A medical school asking for a city of Sacramento financial incentive to build a $1 billion Natomas hospital is being sued again.

The new class action lawsuit, filed Monday in Sacramento Superior Court, alleges the university violated state labor laws by failing to give proper meal breaks, overtime pay, and salaries.

Angel Brewer worked in the summer of 2023 as an office clerk at the Elk Grove medical school, the lawsuit states. The university did not pay Brewer minimum wage and required her to work off the clock, according to the lawsuit. Brewer worked over 12 hours of a day, but did not get the legally-required overtime pay. Managers also required Brewer to work through her lunch breaks or shorten them, which is against state law.

We do not believe this case has any merit, California Northstate spokesman Doug Elmets said.

The private for-profit university has faced scrutiny in recent years. In 2019 a state agency ordered the university to cease offering two programs designed to fast track students into careers in medicine. In 2022, the accrediting agency placed the school on probation for undisclosed reasons. As of Wednesday, it remained on probation.

We are working through the accreditation process, Elmets said Wednesday.

The school has also been hit with a series of lawsuits. The parents of several students in February 2023 filed a lawsuit alleging the university committed fraud when it promised medical school admission to students who had enrolled in an undergrad program, then denied their admission.

In April a former professor and a university applicant each filed lawsuits against the university alleging the university was responsible for a major 2023 data breach. That lawsuit is still active.

The schools issues face a higher level of public scrutiny because the city plans to award a sizable financial incentive for the school to build the Natomas hospital. The $1 billion hospital, at the former Sleep Train Arena site, is planned to receive a so-called enhanced infrastructure financing district. Under that mechanism, new property tax revenue that would normally go toward the coffers of the city, facing a budget deficit, is redirected toward helping the developer fund the project  paying for infrastructure such as roads, stormwater and sewer improvements. The council took a step toward the financial incentive in April, but it has not yet taken the vote to approve it.

Depending when that vote gets on the council agenda, the new mayor may not be able to participate.

California Northstate University CEO Alvin Cheung on June 21 donated $1,000 to the campaign of Assemblyman Kevin McCarty, whos running for Sacramento mayor, city documents show. If McCarty is elected, it appears he may need to abstain from votes that give California Northstate any financial benefit, or return $750 of the $1,000, according to a new state law. Sean McMorris of California Common Cause said if that situation arises, the city should seek an opinion from the California Fair Political Practices Commission ahead of the vote. Cheung donated $250 to Councilwoman Mai Vang on Aug. 17, an amount that allows Vang to still participate in votes.

McCartys opponent Flojaune Cofer has not received any campaign donations from Cheung or California Northstate. The new mayor, along with three new council members, will be sworn in in December.

Cheung has said he does not donate to politicians in order to buy their votes.

I have contributed to many local and state elected officials who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to public service, Cheung said in a statement last month.

The university has opened a new nursing school in Rancho Cordova, it announced earlier this week. That project did not receive any government financial incentives, Elmets said.
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.
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.

After state audits found that the California State University and University of California held thousands of of Native American ancestors and family belongings, they promised to repatriate and give those items and remains back.

While progress has been made, more work needs to be done, state auditors and tribal leaders said during a repatriation hearing on Tuesday held by Assemblyman James Ramos, D-San Bernardino.

During the hearing, representatives from the California State University and University of California reported on how the systems are complying with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. NAGPRA, a federal law passed in 1990, mandated that institutions repatriate Native American ancestors and cultural belongings. Despite this law being passed 30 years, universities violated it through non compliance, tribal leaders said.

As a result of decades of non-compliance and several state audits, California universities were mandated to repatriate.

It is offensive that we must continue to demand. (Repatriation) is a basic human need and right. That need and right does not fade with time, said Ramos, who is Serrano and Cahuilla.

Tribal leaders are seeing persistent obstacles with repatriation from campuses. They identified that many campuses have poor storage conditions, a lack of funding for equipment to house the remains of ancestors, they said. Tribes also struggle with meeting the financial requirements to repatriate.

The universities response

A state audit last year showed that a majority of California State Universities failed to repatriate ancestors and family belongings. The California State University had nearly 700,000 ancestors and belongings in its possession across the systems 23 campuses.

The University of California is also in possession of thousands of ancestors and belongings, with UC Berkeley having the fourth largest collections in the country.

Since their audits, the University of California has allocated $10 million to repatriation efforts. Teresa Maldonado, the vice president for research and innovation, said the University of California still has a long way to go.

Campuses like the University of California, Davis have made more significant strides however, Maldonado said. Davis has repatriated 165 ancestors and 9,000 cultural items, with the entirety of its collection to be fully returned by June 2027.

In regards to the California State University system, eight campuses have full time NAGPRA coordinators, while three are in the process of hiring positions. The system has also created an Office of Tribal Relations and is still employing staff. Mildred Garcia, the chancellor of the California State University system, said they have allocated $4.25 million to NAGPRA compliance efforts, and will use funding to hire staff.

Garcia said that the system has fallen short to their obligations to repatriate ancestors and family belongings. During the hearing, Garcia promised that ancestors will be fully repatriated at every California State university.

Garcia asked the California legislature to hold the California State universities accountable for complying with NAGPRA. In response, Assemblywoman Luz Rivas, D-Arleta, said they want to see the system commit with specific goals on meeting compliance. That includes hiring full time NAGPRA coordinators. She asked Garcia how long does it really take to write a job description to hire the staff?

Frustrations from tribal communities

Some institutions remain unaware of how large their collections are, with estimations totaling in the thousands. This includes collections being held by retired professors, tribal leaders said.

Completion of repatriation is nowhere near the horizon, tribal leaders said. Lorelle Ross, the vice chair of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, said cultural justice has been undeniably, painfully slow.

We must work with a renewed sense of urgency and ensure the efforts are comprehensive across every agency, Ross said.

Theres a lack of commitment and cultural sensitivity from institutions, tribal leaders said. Tribal communities dont trust these universities to repatriate their ancestors. Universities arent always willing to abide by the audits recommendation, or seek to understand tribal communities. Additionally, tribal leaders urged universities to hire full time NAGPRA coordinators to ensure their ancestors are repatriated.

Thats the one thing that CSU and UC will not understand, the power of our culture  we feel our ancestors, said Leo Sisco, chairman of the Tachi Yokut Tribe. We are not science projects. Our ancestors carry values, stories, and we want to bring those stories and values home.

The collection of Native American ancestors and family belongings can be traced back to the state-sponsored genocide against tribes. Some field schools still continue to this day, said Ramos.

Anthropologists would loot Native American grave sites to study tribal people as a dying species and seen as specimens. This practice was racist, a form of eugenics and dehumanized Native people, tribal leaders said. Many said neglecting to repatriate Native people and belongings is a human rights issue.

Native leaders emphasized that it shouldnt take 30 years to bring their people home. Universities have had decades to comply with NAGPRA, and its about time they hand over ancestors and belongings. Ramos said that California tribes will not stop to ensure their ancestors are returned.

How many times is money going to be allocated for our people? In the beginning of this state, $5 bounties were put on the heads of our males and $1.50 bounties of our females and our children. These are the ancestors were trying to get back today, said Jack Potter Jr., chairman of Redding Rancheria. And now these CSUs and UCs want more money to return them to us. Its a matter of heart. They should just hand them over. They know where they came from. It shouldnt take so much money.

It shouldnt take 30 years to have our people brought home, he continued. Just use your heart, CSU, UC system. You have those lists. Get a hold of those tribes and hand them over.
The woman who died alongside her skydiving instructor in a freak accident in the Inland Empire last Friday has been identified.

Kayla Kieko Black, 28, was pronounced deceased at a Riverside County hospital on Sunday, her father Bill Black confirmed to KTLA.

Black and her skydiving instructor, Devrey LaRiccia Chase, also 28, were caught in a pair of dust devils during a routine jump in Perris on Aug. 2, Chases husband Freddy told KTLA.

A dust devil is a small, rotating column of air that picks up dust and debris from the ground on hot days; while they resemble tornadoes, they are generally considered to be harmless, except in this circumstance.

Burglars strike in Encino again, but its a business this time around

She missed the first one, and when she maneuvered around it, she hit the second one, Freddy Chase, who himself is a skydiver with a large social media following, said. At that point, she was about 25 to 30 feet in the airit sent her canopy in a downward spiral.

With no time left to react, both Devrey and Kayla slammed into the ground. The two were rushed to a local hospital, where the former succumbed to her injuries on Friday and the latter on Sunday.

A resident of Buena Park at the time of her tragic death, Kayla had worked as a server at Niko Niko Japanese Restaurant in La Habra for nearly nine years and had recently started working at the Benihana location in Anaheim.

She had many regulars that loved her, and she was already touching lives at Benihana, as she had an infectious personality, Bill Black told KTLA.

Kaylas life plans, Bill said, revolved around an RV she had bought in the hopes of renovating it and working remotely while living wherever she wanted to go.

I know its not glamorous but that was her dream, he said. She loved to venture out and try different activities, such as skydiving.

Unbeknownst to her family, Kayla, a graduate of Sonora High School in La Habra, had signed herself up to be an organ donor, Bill said.

Simi Valley man kills coyote that entered his home, attacked his dog

A GoFundMe started to help the family with funeral costs stated that Kaylas organ donation decision helps family and friends find solace in knowing that she is providing hope and new beginnings for individuals in need, even after she died.

A link to donate to the fundraiser can be found here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
OSLO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A 39-year-old Polish man has been sentenced to four months in prison and will be deported from Denmark for assaulting Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, the national broadcaster DR reported Wednesday.

"We have found you guilty of hitting the prime minister with a clenched fist on the right upper arm, causing her to be pushed off course. This constitutes violence against a civil servant in office," a judge from a Copenhagen court stated in the verdict released on Wednesday.

However, the Polish suspect pled not guilty in court, saying that he was too drunk to remember the details of the incident.

In addition to his prison sentence, the defendant has been banned from entering Denmark for six years.

The Danish prime minister was attacked in central Copenhagen on June 7, not far from her home, while campaigning ahead of the European elections. The man was arrested at the scene.

Frederiksen sustained whiplash and was taken to hospital following the attack, but released shortly later. Frederiksen was reportedly "shocked" by the sudden assault. 
The Cambridge Natural History Museum will hold a grand opening celebration Saturday, August 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 132 W Center St., Cambridge, according to a news release.

The museum will showcase a captivating collection of fossils, minerals, and Native American artifacts, all curated by a young paleontologist. Guests will even have a chance to touch a real dinosaur fossil.

(Cambridge Natural History Museum)

Anderson Taylor, a 9 year-old Cambridge resident, is excited to see his dream of opening a museum come true. I want to teach other kids, as well as adults who arent able to go to museums in larger cities, about natural history and prehistoric life, he says.

The idea to open a museum has been on Andersons mind for about two years: Visiting the Staffin Dinosaur Museum in Scotland really inspired me to open my own museum. The owner of that museum started it when he was a teenager. It isnt big or fancy like what most people think of when they think of inspiring museums, but it contains many important and exciting fossils and I really enjoyed talking to and learning from the owner, who discovered all of the pieces I was looking at, he said.

Anderson is a lifelong student of paleontology and has been collecting and studying fossils for as long as he can remember. His study of fossils has brought him around the world. He has traveled to observe evidence of ancient life as far as the Isle of Skye in Scotland and the Morrison Formation in Colorado. For a school project he portrayed Barnum Brown, the paleontologist who discovered the Tyrannosaurus Rex, and he has hosted several public presentations on prehistoric life in Illinois and beyond. Anderson and his brother, Miles, also host a podcast on local history, called Tot Cast.

Anderson says, Opening the museum has been a lot of work and I would not be able to do this without help from family, friends, the community, and support from the Village of Cambridge. Much of what you see at the museum has been generously donated by friends, family, and strangers.

The grand opening event will feature light refreshments and a special interactive dig activity for children, providing a fun and educational experience. Young visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a mock excavation and take home a souvenir from their dig.

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By Nia Williams

(Reuters) -Canada will fund an Indigenous-led study into how oil sands development impacts the health of local communities, the government said on Wednesday, following a tailings water leak from an Imperial Oil site that heightened pollution concerns.

Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault said Ottawa would provide C$12 million ($8.71 million) over 10 years for the Fort Chipewyan Health Study, which may include an assessment of whether there are heightened risks of cancer for communities downstream of the oil sands region.

Fort Chipewyan is one of several Indigenous communities in remote Northern Alberta that last year learned that tailings water - a toxic mix of bitumen, sand and residual bitumen - had been seeping for months from Imperial's nearby Kearl mining site.

For years those communities have reported higher rates of cancer and other health issues including autoimmune diseases, skin irritations and severe arthritis, Chief Allan Adam of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation told reporters on a conference call. He added that his community first called for a health study in 1992.

If the study points to impacts on communities from the oil sands it would force the federal and provincial governments and companies to put stronger environmental and health measures in place, Guilbeault told reporters on the call.

"That would be the only reasonable course of action," he said. "I have heard first-hand how the Kearl mine spill affected the communities but also how these concerns are not new."

Around two-thirds of Canada's 5 million barrels per day of crude output come from the oil sands, and Imperial is one of the largest producers alongside Suncor Energy and Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.

"Imperial reiterates its support and our willingness to participate in the health study announced today by the federal government to improve understanding and build confidence in our communities regarding our industry," an Imperial spokesperson said in a statement, adding the company regrets the Kearl seepage.

Pathways Alliance, a group of Canada's six biggest oil sands producers, said in a statement it respected the leaders' desire to seek information on the health of their community and the region.

The goal of the study is to develop robust data examining the health and environmental impacts of the oil sands, with specific objectives to be developed by the communities.

Guilbeault said Ottawa had invited the Alberta government to help fund the study but had not received any response. He added that an independent assessment of the risks from tailings ponds would be useful.

The Alberta government said in a statement it was committed to working with Indigenous partners on a health study and would seek more information on the study announced by Ottawa.

The health study is long overdue, Chief Billy-Joe Tuccaro of the Mikisew Cree First Nation, said on the conference call.

"From the time they put the first shovel in the ground all this should have been taken care of ... but now we are playing catch-up 30 or 40 years on as people have died," he said.

($1 = 1.3779 Canadian dollars)

(Reporting by Nia Williams in British Columbia; Editing by Matthew Lewis, Jamie Freed and Sonali Paul)
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivers remarks at a ceremony in Ottawa on July 18, 2024. Another person has been arrested after making threats to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau online. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press via AP)

TORONTO (AP)  Canadian police have arrested a man after he allegedly made threats against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau online.

Police say the man made violent threats against Trudeau, the police and security personnel who might attempt to interfere with his plans in an online video. RCMP made the arrest with help from the York Regional Police in Ontario.

Dawid Zalewski, 33, of no fixed address, is facing two counts of uttering threats.

Threats to our national security can come in many forms and Canada is not immune, the RCMP said in a press release Wednesday.

We are aware of the heightened security environment for public officials and the danger this presents for all Canadians. Our No. 1 priority has been, and will always be, the safety and security of Canadians.

The arrest comes weeks after two Alberta men were charged after they allegedly directed death threats at the prime minister.

RCMP said in July that the men posted threats to kill Trudeau and other politicians on X and YouTube.
Both major Canadian railroads and their union employees restarted negotiations for a new contract Wednesday in an effort to avoid a rail strike, months after the talks were officially put on hold.

The countrys recently sworn in Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon met with representatives from Canadian National Railway (CN), Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) and Canadas Teamsters, as well as Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez on Monday to discuss the governments expectations in their current collective bargaining negotiations.

More from Sourcing Journal

The meetings were frank, constructive discussions that reflected the gravity of the situation before Canadas railways, workforce and entire economy, MacKinnon said in a statement posted on X. We expect these negotiations to be productive and substantive engagements that meet the needs of this moment. That is how settlements negotiated by unions and employers are reached at the bargaining table.

MacKinnon said that the railways transport $400 billion Canadian dollars ($290 million) in goods annually. Federal mediators are participating in the talks.

I dont need to remind anyone that theres economic risk, MacKinnon told reporters Monday. I think any Canadian understands how integral these two companies and their workers are to the functioning of the Canadian economy.

The previous rail contracts expired at the end of 2023, and negotiators have been in talks since the fall, but the 9,300 unionized workers at both railroads have remained on the job since without a stoppage. The railroads have been deadlocked with the Teamsters on terms of the contract since the deals expiration.

According to a spokesperson for the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC), the Monday meeting was meant to discuss increasing the pace and frequencies of discussions at both companies. A work stoppage can be avoided, provided both companies are willing to return with fair and equitable proposals.

CN and CPKC released statements in the wake of MacKinnons Monday announcement, with both railroads stressing a desire to get a new deal in place.

Since the beginning of negotiations, CNs goal has always been and continues to be to negotiate in good faith with the Union to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that maintains safety and stability for its team, customers, and North American supply chains, CN said in a statement. CN has made multiple offers to the TCRC that we believe address employee issues.

CPKC reiterated its standing offer to resolve the negotiations through binding arbitration should the talks be unsuccessful. The Teamsters have already rejected both rail operators attempts at ending the dispute via arbitration.

We recognize and appreciate that our customers and supply chains need predictability and time to plan for a potential work stoppage. At the same time, it is important to balance the need for planning with avoiding a potential labor disruption during the fall period when shipping demand is typically at its peak, said CPKC in a statement. A timely resolution to this labor dispute is particularly critical because a rail service disruption during the peak fall period would create even more widespread disruption with a longer recovery period for the rail network and supply chains.

Even ahead of peak season, both railroads already have been negatively impacted by the potential of a strike as shippers reroute vessels away from the British Columbia ports. CN has seen its largest impacts in the intermodal segment, with volume dropping 17 percent from May 12 to July 14. CPKC said revenues from container traffic fell 4 percent year over year.

The railroads concerns come as uncertainty remains over whether the Canadian government will allow the strike to take place.

Seamus ORegan, who stepped down as Labour Minister last month and led the way for McKinnon, initially stalled the union talks in May. At the time, he requested that the countrys labor relations board review whether a work stoppage would impede the countrys railroads from transporting certain essential goods.

The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) is still reviewing the stoppage, but is expected to make a ruling decision by Friday. If the CIRB determines a strike is legal, then the union can issue a strike notice immediately, but would have to wait 72 hours before taking strike action.

The Teamsters have already authorized a strike twiceonce on May 1, and again after the 60-day time limit on the initial vote expired.

Since the negotiations were first halted in May, the union has remained far apart from the rail companies on areas such as wages, as well as issues pertaining to crew scheduling, hours of work and fatigue management.
At Mondays Canyon City Commission meeting, members unanimously approved an ordinance to create property tax exemptions for childcare facilities and, by a 4-1 vote, approved a maximum tax rate for the upcoming city budget.

Canyon City Commissioners discuss the maximum proposed tax rate at Monday's meeting in Canyon.

The ordinance was made possible by Senate Bill 1145, which gave municipalities the authority to give tax exemptions to qualifying childcare facilities. According to Canyon, two childcare facilities currently qualify for the program. To qualify, childcare facilities must participate in the Texas Workforce Commissions Texas Rising Star Program, and at least 20% of the total number of children enrolled at the facility receive subsidized childcare services through the childcare program by the Texas Workforce Commission.

Canyon Mayor Gary Hinders weighed in on the ordinance in a news release.

The city believes that anything we can do to support childcare in our community helps our families directly, he said. This property tax exemption will help Canyons overall economy and community growth.

Stephanie Tucker, director of the Canyon Economic Development Corporation, also discussed the benefits of providing this tax relief to childcare facilities.

Were excited for this ordinance because childcare is crucial for our existing and growing community, she said. When businesses are looking to move or expand, affordable childcare is always a top question. This tax exemption will attract and retain families and businesses alike.

According to the city of Canyon, facilities must apply for this exemption by filling out Form 50-844 on the Texas Comptrollers website. The application is open with a deadline of May 1 annually. The application will open yearly for new facilities to apply.

The commission had one dissenting vote in Commissioner Paul Lyons on the maximum allowable property tax rate, which was set at $0.41011. If approved, this would be a 4% increase. The tax rate is still to be determined, as this is the maximum that it could go up, and it could very possibly be lower in the final budget.

Lyons stressed that he had some issues with the city budget as proposed and that the maximum tax rate is above what he would be comfortable asking the citizens to bear.

Budget discussions for the city will be ongoing, with a final property tax rate still not finalized.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Canyon OKs ordinance on childcare facilities tax relief
Armando Cruz, 19, was sentenced Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, to 17 years in prison, followed by five years of probation for the 2023 shooting of two Lehigh Acres seniors as they towed their boat. He was 17 at the time of the shooting.

A Cape Coral teenager charged as an adult in the shooting of two Lehigh Acres senior citizens at an intersection last year will spend nearly two decades behind bars.

Armando Cruz, 19, was sentenced Tuesday to 17 years in prison, followed by five years of probation. He was 17 at the time of the shooting.

Cruz on July 31 pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted second-degree murder; one count each of shooting at, within or into a vehicle; one count of street takeover; one count of breach of peace; and one count of unlawful assembly. The court also ordered Cruz pay $10,000 to the victims.

The shooting happened about 4 a.m. March 19 when Robert Olswang, 76, and Janice Olswang, 70, were caught in the middle of a large gathering at an intersection.

Life in federal prison: Wisconsin man gets life for 2018 double murder during Estero firearms transaction

Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno said the victims were beginning their trip to Key West, towing their boat.

As they approached the intersection of Milwaukee Boulevard and Homestead Road, a car club blocked the intersection, gathered for a street race.

A mob broke away from the larger group, surrounded the victims' truck and boat and began to hit, punch and kick the vehicle. Several suspects jumped onto the truck and the boat.

Video shown by the Lee County Sheriff's Office at a press conference about the shooting of two senior citizens at a street takeover on March 19, 2023

Marceno said Cruz ran to the victims' window and fired a pistol, striking both. Robert Olswang was shot through the neck. Janice Olswang was shot in the chest and arm.

At least 15 other people were arrested in the following weeks linked to the incident. None of them have faced attempted murder charges, other than Cruz.

Tomas Rodriguez is a Breaking/Live News Reporter for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. You can reach Tomas at TRodriguez@gannett.com or 772-333-5501. Connect with him on Twitter @TomasFRoBeltran, Instagram @tomasfrobeltran and Facebook @tomasrodrigueznews.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Teen who shot at Lehigh Acres seniors towing boat gets 17 years
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. (WBOY)  This week, the Carl Hopkins WV Youth Aviation Expo will return to the Bridge Sports Complex with the goal of introducing local aviation-related opportunities in north central West Virginia to children and adults alike.

The expo will take place on Aug. 9-10 and will feature a number of hands-on activities both inside and outside the sports complex including free flight, control line, radio control, rocket launching and drone flying.

A special landing appearance from the military black hawk helicopter will be made on Friday with an appearance from the Healthnet helicopter on Saturday as well as a helicopter from the Charleston flight school. Parachuters and paramotor demonstrations will also be held at the event.

If thats not enough for you, a radio control airplane will also drop 2 pounds of candy and a few special tokens that will lead to a prize for those who find it.

Kids get hands-on STEM experience at STEMventure Camp in Bridgeport

12 News spoke with Engine & Airframe Solutions Worldwide COO and organizer of the aviation expo, Ed Waske, about the importance of offering this event to the public.

The kids could get a step ahead of anybody else in regard to what its about and whats out there in this area. My company and other companies are all looking to hire pilots, mechanics, instructors. Theres just so many open positions that come with the industry that its not just pilots and mechanics, its a whole list of all the support network, said Waske.

Waske emphasized the importance of the personnel who are involved behind the scenes and how those interested will have the opportunity to learn more about them at the expo.

Organizations like Flying Wing Nutz, Fairmont Flyers, Clarksburg Model Aviation Club, Piermonts Flight School of Excellence, WVU Experimental Rocketry will be in attendance as well as and other aviation communities and companies.

The aviation expo will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. regardless of weather as there are plenty of indoor activities planned on top of the outdoor ones. You can find more information on the Carl Hopkins WV Youth Aviation Expo on its Facebook page. The event is free and open to all ages.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com.
ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (WJHL)  Carter County Sheriff Mike Fraley confirmed he fired former Chief Deputy Jeff Gazzo just a month shy of his two-year anniversary at the sheriffs office. Fraley hired Gazzo shortly after being elected in August of 2022.

Mike Fraley announces his pick for chief deputy in Carter County

News Channel 11 filed a public records request to obtain Gazzos personnel file and confirmation of his termination.

Included in the file was a letter dated July 24, 2024 from Fraley to Gazzo saying in part, effective immediately you have been terminated from your employment with the Carter County Sheriffs Office.

News Channel 11 spoke to Fraley Tuesday. When asked why Gazzo was fired, he said We just had a difference in my expectations of leadership.

Im not going to bash him or anything like that. Its just moving forward. I wanted to go in a different direction and made that decision, Fraley said. It was my decision, and Ill stand behind it.

News Channel 11 also reached out to Jeff Gazzo for comment. Although he declined an interview, he sent a statement that reads:

As you can see from my personnel file you requested, I wasnt given a specific reason for the action taken by the Sheriff.



The letter he included in the file lists no reason. There are no disciplinary actions in my personnel file as you can see.



On May 30, 2024 I was informed by a captain to not return to work until August 1, 2024. This was because I had about 500 hours of compensatory time accumulated. According to this person this was required in order to get the budget approved and because a raise was on the table. I took this time as instructed but still attended staff meetings. On July 24, 2024 I attended a staff meeting and was given the letter which is included in my personnel file. I have had no contact with the Sheriff since that date.

Jeff Gazzo, former Chief Deputy of Carter County Sheriffs Office

Included in the file was a letter to the countys finance department indicating Gazzo was owed a check for more than $14,000 for unpaid compensation time and vacation hours.

Also included in Gazzos personnel file was a letter from Fraley to the countys finance department, instructing he be paid $14,056.07 for unpaid compensation and vacation hours.





Since Gazzos departure, Fraley has appointed Sean Johnson as his new chief deputy.

Johnson, an Elizabethton native and Marine Corps veteran, has been with the sheriffs office for 31 years. He originally started his career with the department as an unpaid reserve deputy. He was then hired at the jail and attended the Tennessee Law Enforcement Academy in Nashville. Since then, Fraley said hes worked in nearly every division of the sheriffs office.

He knows the people well, and I think the troops will rally behind him, and I think itll be good for morale, Fraley said.

Johnson confirmed hes worked in corrections, on patrol, as an undercover narcotics officer with the First Judicial Drug Task Force, and in the criminal investigations divisions. Hes also worked as a court officer, been a part of the S.W.A.T. team and served as a patrol captain before most recently leading the criminal investigations division.

Johnson is also a second-generation sheriffs office employee.

My dad retired from here, Johnson said. I sort of grew up here from 1976 on, and its the only place Ive ever wanted to be in my life.

Johnson said hes had opportunities to go elsewhere but never wanted to leave Carter County.

I dont want to go to a good agency. I want to make this a good agency. Johnson told News Channel 11. I think that the deputies deserve that. I think that citizens of Carter County deserve that, and that is something that Ill work with as much as I can and make sure that that happens.

As far as his goals for the chief deputy position, Johnson said he feels the sheriffs office is as professional as its ever been, but hell try to make it even better.

We are much more professional now than what we were, Johnson said. My dad has not been retired for that long and I brought him through just a tour of the facilities that we have, some of the criminal investigation stuff that we had just a few weeks ago. He was blown away by what has been done in such a short period of time and some of the things that we have available to us and some of the things were doing now. Well, its not time to rest on our laurels.

Its time to double down and increase that. Thats what I think that the sheriff and I can do together.

Fraley commended Johnson for taking a bit of time before accepting the position when it was offered. Johnson told him he needed to pray and talk it over with his family.

Johnson said his wife and children have offered their full 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 WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Carvings at site in Turkey could depict comet strike that ushered in civilization: Study

A Turkish site thought to predate the Great Pyramid of Giza by seven millennia is host to mysterious carvings that archeologists believe could depict a devastating ancient comet strike.

The carvings recently deciphered at the Gobekli Tepe archaeological site in Turkey suggest the monument could also represent the world's oldest solar calendar, according to new research. The nearly 12,000-year-old architectural wonder is thought to be the oldest place of worship ever discovered, even older than the 4,500-year-old pyramids.

The temple-like enclosures at the site  also believed to be the oldest in the world  are adorned with intricately carved symbols. Researchers who recently visited the site to take a closer look at the symbols determined that they may, in fact, be a recording of an astronomical event that triggered a momentous shift in human civilization.

If true, the team's findings could mean that ancient people recorded their celestial observations to create a solar calendar to track the seasons using a method the Greeks famously used some thousands of years later.

"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," study lead author Martin Sweatman, a chemical engineer at the University of Edinburgh, said in a statement.

Carvings at Gobekli Tepe are thought to represent the world's oldest calendar.

Researchers interpret V-shaped symbols as ancient calendar

Strange V-shaped symbols carved onto pillars at Gobekli Tepe could be interpreted to represent a single day, the researchers said.

By totaling up the V-shapes, the researchers counted out a solar calendar of 365 days on one of the pillars, consisting of 12 lunar months plus 11 extra days.

A separate symbol depicting a V worn around the neck of a bird-like beast was thought to represent the summer solstice, according to the study. The researchers also theorized that other statues at the site with similar markings at their necks likely depict deities.

Because the prehistoric monument depicts both the phases of the moon and the suns cycles, archeologists concluded that the carvings could represent the worlds earliest "lunisolar calendar"  predating other known calendars of this type by millennia.

Did comet strike usher in dawn of civilization?

Ancient people likely created the calendar as a way to memorialize the date when a swarm of comet fragments hit Earth nearly 13,000 years ago, the researchers claimed.

Another pillar at the site appears to show the Taurid meteor stream  thought to be the source of the comet fragments that rained on the planet for 27 days.

Such a comet strike around 10,850 BC could have ushered in a mini-ice age lasting more than 1,200 years, which would have wiped out many species of large animals. Incredibly, the comet strike would have wrought enough devastation to effectively usher in the dawn of civilization in the fertile crescent region of West Asia as people accustomed to hunter-gatherer techniques increasingly turned to agriculture for food.

The researchers suspect that the monument remained important to the ancient people for millennia, suggesting the comet strike could have triggered a new religion.

"This event might have triggered civilization by initiating a new religion and by motivating developments in agriculture to cope with the cold climate," Sweatman said in a statement.

Sweatman further said the findings support the theory that Earth faces increased comet strikes as its orbit crosses the path of circling comet fragments, which are normally experienced as meteor streams.

Predating the Greeks

The find also appears to confirm that ancient people were able to record dates by studying the Earth's precession, in which the rotation of the Earths axis can alter the movement of constellations across the sky.

The researchers wrote that this suggests the ancient people had accurate ways to keep time 10,000 years before the phenomenon was documented in Ancient Greece in 150 B.C.

"Possibly, their attempts to record what they saw are the first steps towards the development of writing millennia later," Sweatman said.

The research was published Tuesday in the journal Time and Mind.

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mysterious carvings at Gobekli Tepe could be ancient calendar: Study
VIENNA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Organizers said on Wednesday evening that three Taylor Swift's concerts in Vienna this week were canceled after Austrian authorities announced arrests over a planned terrorist attack on the events.

"With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone's safety," the event organizer Barracuda Music said on Instagram.

Earlier Wednesday, Austrian authorities said they had arrested two people suspected of plotting attacks on the concerts. A 19-year-old suspect was arrested Wednesday morning in Ternitz, south of Vienna, Austrian news agency APA quoted Franz Ruf, public security director of Austria's interior ministry, as saying. The other was arrested in Vienna Wednesday afternoon.

Swift was scheduled to play on Thursday, Friday and Saturday as part of her widely popular Eras Tour. An estimated 170,000 fans would have attended the three concerts, according to APA. 
ITMANN, WV (WVNS)  A Texas investor purchased the historic Itmann Company Store complex in southern West Virginia and is planning to restore and develop it.

Breeze Airways to offer direct flights from Charleston to New York

According to a release from Foxfire Reality, Gary Drabek, an investor from the Houston area of Texas closed on the property in Beckley on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. Drabek has reportedly been meeting with potential partners to work on the historic structures restoration. The release stated that he plans to work with local and state tourism officials when it comes to making it the Mountain States next tourism spot.

Its already one of the chief tourist attractions in the region, so well build on that foundation, Drabek said.

Drabek walks through the historic Itmann

Company Store with real estate agents and development team members.

From left to right: Vern Weaver, agent Randy Burdette, agent David

Sibray, new owner Gary Drabek, and former owner Allison Hughart.

(Photographer: Tom Riser)

The Itmann Company story was completed in 1923 before it was commissioned by industrialist I.T. Mann to help the residents of the remote coal mining town of Itmann. In the late 20th century, the landmark became irreparable while mining employment decreased.

David Sibray, a preservation consultant and agent for Foxfire Realty, said he is looking forward to working on the restoration with Drabek.

This isnt Mr. Drabeks first restoration project, which bodes well as the landmark requires extensive repair, said Sibray.

Sibray and fellow Foxfire agent Randy S. Burdette touched on Drabeks community-first approach to this restoration project. Drabek plans to focus on the regions rich history, outdoor recreation and ATV tourism, and feedback and support from the community as well.

West Virginians are among the most friendly people Ive ever met. The building brought me here, but the people convinced me to stay, said Drabek.

DoHS welcomes the first Statewide Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Coordinator

The release finished by stating that this was not Drabeks first purchase in southern West Virginia, and plans to continue investment throughout 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 WVNS.
Together for Catalonia (Junts per Catalunya) regional Candidate Carles Puigdemont attends an interview in Perpignan

By Joan Faus and David Latona

BARCELONA/MADRID (Reuters) - Seven years after leading Catalonia's failed bid to secede from Spain, Carles Puigdemont is set to return from self-imposed exile despite facing a likely arrest that could trigger yet another crisis between the region and Madrid.

Although the Spanish parliament passed a contentious amnesty bill in May pardoning those involved in the 2017 secession attempt, the Supreme Court has upheld warrants for the arrest of Puigdemont and two others charged with embezzlement.

Puigdemont, 61, a cult figure for supporters who is recognisable for his Beatles-style haircut, intends to attend Thursday's plenary session of the Catalan parliament.

Lawmakers are set to confirm Salvador Illa, an ally of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, as head of government of the wealthy northeastern region.

It remains unclear how the former Catalan leader plans to return to the country and enter parliament while evading police.

When campaigning for the Catalan election on May 12, Puigdemont pledged that he would attend in person the parliamentary session in Barcelona to elect a new regional leader, regardless whether that would be him or not.

His return, analysts say, could also be triggered by a political calculation that his exile has lost significance with the amnesty law and that he can be more influential within Spain, while gambling that if arrested he may be able to win a release appeal thanks to the amnesty law.

His arrest and potential imprisonment before facing trial could unleash fresh turmoil in Catalonia and compromise the fragile Socialist-led coalition ruling Spain, which relies on Puigdemont's party to pass legislation.

UNCONVENTIONAL RISE TO POWER

The bespectacled former journalist, known for his passion for music and literature and a penchant for cryptic social media posts with obscure literary references, entered big politics almost by accident.

Puigdemont was mayor of the separatist stronghold of Girona, a city of about 100,000, when the regional parliament appointed him head of the Catalan government in 2016, a year before he would spearhead the independence bid that triggered Spain's biggest political crisis in decades.

He had not run for the post, but was hand-picked by his elected predecessor, Artur Mas, who had to step down to avoid a new election.

A year and a half later, following an October 2017 independence referendum deemed illegal by the judiciary, the same parliament declared Catalonia's independence.

While many rejoiced, Puigdemont looked stern, knowing that Madrid would take direct control over the region shortly after.

Sacked by Spain's then-premier Mariano Rajoy for his role in organising the referendum, Puigdemont fled to Belgium by car two days after the proclamation, while some of his former government colleagues remained in Spain and were jailed shortly afterwards.

He still faces a charge of misuse of public funds for the referendum purposes. Puigdemont insists the referendum was not illegal and so the charges linked to it have no basis.

In Brussels, he founded Junts, a hardline pro-independence spin-off of his more pragmatic CiU party, to run for the Catalan presidency in the first election following the referendum with the hope of governing remotely. He did not achieve that goal, but in 2019 he was elected as a member of the European Parliament.

'NO SURRENDER'

His travels outside Belgium led to him being arrested in Germany and Italy, but he still managed to avoid extradition or lengthy detention.

Last spring, he said he was relocating to southern France to run in the Catalan election.

In July 2023, however, the European Union's General Court stripped him of the legal immunity he had as a parliamentarian.

His supporters built an image of him as a staunch fighter against Spain's judiciary, under the motto of "No surrender", while he insisted he was hoping to return to Catalonia but was not seeking an individual pardon.

He ran in May's regional election, campaigning from France and hoping for an epic return, but finished second behind the Socialist candidate Salvador Illa as Catalan nationalists lost their parliamentary majority for the first time in four decades.

In a video message on Wednesday, Puigdemont said his potential arrest would be illegal and arbitrary.

He had earlier described Spain's efforts to detain him as a "hybrid coup", adding: "If they succeed, I imagine what awaits me and know what I must do."

(Reporting by David Latona and Joan Faus; Editing by Andrei Khalip and Andrew Cawthorne)
Cause of Death Revealed for 8-Year-Old Girl Who Died After Mid-Flight Medical Emergency

Cause of Death Revealed for 8-Year-Old Girl Who Died After Mid-Flight Medical Emergency

Sydney Weston became unresponsive while on a SkyWest Airlines flight on June 13

Gofundme Sydney Weston

An Illinois county coroner has determined Sydney Westons cause of death.

Weston, the 8-year-old Missouri girl who experienced a medical emergency while aboard a regional jet en route to a family vacation in Chicago in June, died of complications of chronic primary adrenalitis in the setting of multiple infections, including Strep and Enterovirus, Peoria County coroner Jamie Harwood said in a press release.

Harwood said he reached the assessment after consideration of the circumstances surrounding her death in correlation with a review of the medical records and after a complete autopsy with extensive ancillary studies.

The Carl Junction girl also had duodenitis (inflammation of the small intestine) and thyroiditis (thyroid gland inflammation), according to the release.

Related: Passenger Dies After 'Medical Emergency' Reportedly Involving Liters of Blood Loss During International Flight

The associated diagnoses of chronic adrenalitis, duodenitis and thyroiditis are suggestive of an underlying autoimmune disorder, Harwood said.

On Thursday, June 13, Weston was traveling on a SkyWest Airlines flight from Joplin to Chicago when she became unresponsive while on board, the coroner's office said in a release on Facebook.

Gofundme Sydney Weston

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Officials said Westons family notified flight personnel about the medical emergency, and the plane was diverted to Peoria.

Related: Woman, 41, Dies After She 'Fell Ill' on American Airlines Flight from the Dominican Republic

Upon landing, Weston was not breathing nor had a pulse, the coroner's office added. The girl was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 8:05 a.m. local time.

After her death, a SkyWest spokesperson told USA Today that they appreciated "the efforts of our crewmembers who responded quickly to assist and the medical personnel who met the aircraft.

PEOPLE has reached out to the airline for comment.

Related: Grandfather Who Died on Singapore Airlines Flight Remembered as 'Loving and Gentle Man'

In her obituary, the young girl was remembered for her infectious joy and vigorous love for life.

Weston died eight days before her ninth birthday and had big plans for a skating party. She also looked forward to her familys summer vacation, loved the Missouri amusement park Silver Dollar City and the Taylor Swift song "Karma."

She will forever be remembered for the happiness she brought to every single person she encountered, her family wrote before her funeral. Our hearts are heavy. She was our baby girl and we celebrate her beautiful life.



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Central Pacific Bank is offering some valuable guidance to help potential homeowners determine what kind of loan they may qualify for, and how to calculate it.



According to Kathy Camp, executive vice president of Real Estate at Central Pacific Bank, theres an easy way to calculate using the 28/36 Rule.



Your monthly housing expenses including your mortgage, property taxes, and insurance, cannot exceed 28% of your gross monthly income, and no more than 36 percent of all of your debt combined, said Camp.



For example, if you earn $10,000 a month, your mortgage shouldnt exceed about $2,600 because you have to take into account property insurance as well as taxes. In addition, your total monthly debt should not exceed $2,800 to $2,900, according to Camp.



Generally, youre looking at a $350,000 to $5000 home. The broad difference is because of your credit score. The better the credit score, the more the banks are willing to say yes, Ill give you more money, Camp said.



There are many programs available to help families purchase their dream homes:



 Hula Mae offers a 30-year mortgage at competitive rates with a 3% down payment.

 The City and County of Honolulu offers a 0% interest loan up to $40,000, paid back over 20 years.

 Hawaii Down payment Assistance Program assists with down payments and closing costs with a 3% down payment and no mortgage insurance. You can borrow a maximum of $125,000 with 4.5 % interest.

 The Hawaii Ownership Center offers a deferred closing-cost assistance loan of up to $15,000 with 0% interest for first-time buyers.

 VA loans with no down payment for veterans.



If youre preparing to buy a home  talk to your banker. Get pre-qualified so the seller knows youre a serious buyer. Ensure that you have that pre-qualification letter in place. Then, call CPB. Were here to help navigate you through the process. We want to see everyone who wants to own a home, become a homeowner, said Camp.



Learn how to unlock your dreams with Central Pacific Banks Keys to Homeownership.

*Content Sponsored by Central Pacific Bank

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  The Charleston Peninsula was under a storm-induced curfew for a second night on Tuesday.

This is a decision that I assure you, I do not take lightly but, I do stand by my decision, Charleston Mayor William Cogswell said during a news conference Tuesday evening.

The city was pounded with heavy rainfall brought on by Tropical Storm Debby Monday night into Tuesday. Mayor Cogswell extended the curfew until 7:30 Wednesday morning, saying a few more inches of rain were expected.

I was going nuts. I was like, ok I got to go for a walk. Thank God its not raining right now, said Charleston resident, Carol Wilkening.

North Charleston taps FEMA crews to help with Tropical Storm Debby response

Wilkening was out getting some fresh air on King Street after hunkering down amid the storm and curfew. Empty parking spaces, vacant sidewalks, and closed businesses made for an unusual sight at one of Charlestons main hubs.

Theres a lot of people that are visitors here that are out looking for food or something and theres nothing, Wilkening shared.

Charleston leaders said the curfew was working and credited the move and residents cooperation for a major drop in calls for service.

The mayor said in an earlier news conference that there werent any overnight rescues or reported injuries during the first night of the curfew.

Over the last 24 hours, the fire department has gone on 94 calls for service and as I said this morning, that is a marked decrease in the activity that we would expect to see during a storm of this magnitude, said Charleston Fire Chief Dan Curia.

Charleston police monitored the citys 89 road closures and handed out citations to those who drove around barricades.

As of Tuesday evening, the police chief said they issued 9 citations.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
As Tropical Storm Debby threatens the Carolinas with flooding this week, its continuing to spoil travel plans for passengers at Charlottes airport.

Airlines at Charlotte Douglas International Airport could see problems throughout the week. On Wednesday, there were 479 flights delayed and 36 were canceled at CLT, according to FlightAware, an online website providing real-time information. Thats a combined 515 flight disruptions.

Early Thursday also started with a spate of problems, including 34 delays and nine cancellations by 7 a.m.

And while passengers stuck in Charlotte still have plenty of hotel options, some sites were already booking up fast or were full by Wednesday afternoon. At the airport itself Wednesday afternoon, passengers stood in a security checkpoint line that spanned more than 500 feet.

Over the weekend, Charlotte Douglas had a total of 1,651 canceled or delayed. Since the weekend and through Thursday morning at 7, there were 3,391 delayed or canceled flights.

Debby made landfall in Steinhatchee, Florida, around 7 a.m. Monday, bringing several feet of storm surge. It brought 80 mph sustained winds to the states Big Bend region, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

At 11 pm. Wednesday, the storm was about 65 miles south-southwest of Myrtle Beach and moving to the northeast at about 3 mph

Forecasters said Debby is expected to bring three times more rain to Charlotte than originally predicted. National Weather Service maps are showing 6 to 8 inches through Friday.

President Joe Biden approved a disaster declaration for North Carolina after Gov. Roy Cooper made a request for it, White House officials announced.

It will provide federal funds including reimbursement for evacuation and shelter support for about half of the states counties along Debbys projected track, The News & Observer reported. Those range from Brunswick County in the southeastern corner to Moore County, then as far to the northwest as Guilford County.

Baggage claim C inside the Charlotte Douglas International Airport on August 5, 2024. The airport is facing many delays and cancellations due to Hurricane Debbys landfall in Florida.

American Airlines monitoring Debby in the Carolinas

Due to storm conditions, American Airlines previously canceled Florida operations at several airports. Normal operations have resumed in Gainesville, Jacksonville, Key West, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee and Tampa.

On Tuesday, American monitored operations at airports in the Carolinas and Georgia, Harper said. This includes Charleston, Columbia, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach, Wilmington and Savannah, Georgia.

American Airlines accounts for about 87% of all flights out of CLT. Officials are continuing to monitor the track of the storm, according to spokeswoman Bri Harper.

The company issued a travel alert for customers whose travel plans are affected to rebook without change fees. Customers can reschedule their travel on aa.com or by contacting reservations at 800-433-7300 in the United States or Canada.

Airport officials are advising passengers to check the status of their flights before coming to Charlotte Douglas.

Like American Airlines, Charlotte Douglas is monitoring the weather and is communicating with airlines to stay prepared and to assist as needed, CLT said.

The airport was unable to provide an estimate of how many stranded passengers stayed overnight because of the storm. During weather events, Charlotte Douglas does not close even when airlines choose not to fly.

Baggage claim C inside the Charlotte Douglas International Airport on August 5, 2024. Many people were still at the airport Wednesday dealing with delays.

Passenger agitation at CLT

Tropical Storm Debby is continuing to frustrate passengers at Charlottes airport  one of the busiest in the world.

Customers took to social media to complain about their experiences this week.

One user on X (formerly known as Twitter) wrote Tuesday night: At (Charlotte Douglas International Airport) our plane arrives early and we are delayed even later! Sad when (an American Airlines) flight attendant even told us this is the home of delayed flights. That says it all folks.

Another X user said (CLT) please get it together! This is chaos!

On Wednesday, another X user said, (CLT) Parking is terrible. If your flight cancels and you prepay parking, they wont refund you. Or if theres a hurricane and you need to come back early you cant get modify your dates. We cant control weather. Find a new systemits overpriced too!!

Hotel stays near the airport

Among the 10 hotels The Charlotte Observer called Wednesday afternoon, one was already sold out and another was seeing brisk bookings.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Charlotte Airport at 2600 Yorkmont Road is fully booked for Wednesday night, the companys website showed by 12:45 p.m.. An employee answering the phone confirmed the hotel has no vacancies, and said they are accommodating flight crews with layovers because of the storms.

Over at Comfort Suites Airport at 3425 Mulberry Church Road rooms are still available. The lowest rate tonight starts at $161 for a suite with one king bed, according to the company website.

However, the hotel has been fielding more reservations because of the weather causing flight delays and cancellations, Yash Trivedi, general manager for Comfort Suites Airport said Wednesday afternoon.

We are expecting to see more bookings, he said. Its always last minute.

Observer reporter Cooper Metts contributed to this report
Charlotte braces for Tropical Storm Debby deluge, now just hours from the region

While Eastern North Carolina is expected to get the most rain as Tropical Storm Debby moves up the coast, the Charlotte region remained on high alert for heavy rainfall and a risk of flooding on Thursday.

The National Weather Services declared a flash flood warning was in effect for Mecklenburg County until 11 a.m. on Thursday. The alert, which went out a little after 5 a.m., said the region had already received about 1 to 2 inches of rain.

Bands of rain could pummel Charlotte all day Thursday into Friday morning, National Weather Service meteorologists said.

The combination of persistent gusty winds and wet soils from heavy rainfall will lead to scattered trees & power lines down, with the greatest risk along & east of I-77, NWS forecasters said on X, the former Twitter, at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Runoff from Debby could flood streets, rivers and creeks, NWS forecasters warned in a flood watch earlier Wednesday.

Driving could be treacherous, emergency officials said. Stay home if you can, Gastonia Police urged Wednesday night.

Predicted NWS rainfall totals bounced around this week, finally settling on 4 to 6 inches for the Charlotte area through Friday. Some areas could see 6 to 8 inches, according to the NWS office in Greer, South Carolina.

Lake Norman, Concord, Monroe and Rock Hill, South Carolina, can expect amounts similar to Charlotte, while Gastonia, Lincolnton and other communities west of Charlotte could see smaller totals, according to NWS maps.

Debbys outer rain bands were expected to arrive in Monroe about 8 p.m. Wednesday and midnight in Charlotte, Outlaw said.

Weather models as of Wednesday showed these amounts of rain falling across the region through Friday: 4.5 inches in Charlotte, 5 1/4 inches in Concord, 4.9 inches in Statesville, 4.6 inches in Lincolnton, 6.5 inches in Salisbury and 4.3 inches in Rock Hill, NWS meteorologist Doug Outlaw said.

Several city facilities, like the Monroe Science Center and Sutton Park Community Center, as well as all parks and recreation summer camps and programming are canceled, Lucore said.

Lt. Catherine Hower said rain started falling at 1:30 AM in Monroe and continued coming down harder throughout the night because of the wind. There were no signs of flooding and all drains appeared to be working properly.

The wind was blowing at approximately 21-25 MPH, making the rain come down in sheets blowing across the road. This made visibility difficult at times, especially to see the lines on the road, Hower said.

Water is pooling on the side of roads, and in the tire indentations of Highway 75, Highway 75 and Pageland Highway, she said, which increases the possibility of hydroplaning. And some limbs and debris had to be moved out of the roadways.

The NWS on Tuesday issued a flood watch from late Wednesday through Friday for Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Iredell, Union and Rowan counties and the South Carolina counties of York and Chester.

The latest expected rainfall totals could produce numerous instances of flash flooding, with significant flooding possible, according to the flood watch alert.

Tracking the storm

Some voluntary evacuations were underway in Eastern North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper said during an 11 a.m. news conference in Raleigh on Wednesday.

We expect this storm to continue its slow, gradual approach, bringing multiple days of heavy rainfall and the potential for widespread and severe flash flooding, Cooper said. Have an emergency plan for your household.

Charlotte Fires swift water rescue team was deployed to Elizabethtown in Bladen County on Wednesday morning to lend assistance. The Harrisburg Fire Department also deployed crews to Bladen County, while North Carolina Emergency Management activated Mooresville Fire-Rescues 11-member swiftwater rescue team to Harnett County.

At 8 p.m. Wednesday, the center of Debby was just off the South Carolina coast, about 40 miles southeast of Charleston, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Debby trudged along at 3 mph. Winds increased to 60 mph from 45 mph in the morning, center officials said.

By Wednesday night, the Charleston NWS office confirmed four Debby-spawned tornadoes: EF1s on Edisto Beach and in Moncks Corner; and EF0s on Kiawah Island and Ladys Island.

Those are the weakest of six tornado classifications on the NWS Enhanced Fujita Scale based on wind speed and damage.

At 5 PM: Tropical Storm Debby was located 50 miles ESE of Charleston, SC. Debby's movement was NNE at 3 MPH, slowly approaching the SC coast. Details: https://t.co/aKvOD4c7YP pic.twitter.com/BUNUjbgugf  NWS Charleston, SC (@NWSCharlestonSC) August 7, 2024

The storm could weaken on Thursday after the eye moves inland, officials said.

Debby is expected to move faster north and northeast across the Carolinas and the Mid-Atlantic on Thursday and Friday, officials said.

Some outer bands of rain from Debby were reported in southern Union County on Tuesday, before the center of the storm moved off shore in South Carolina, Outlaw said. Bursts of rain popped up near uptown Charlotte.

It was impossible to say how quickly the rain would fall, NWS meteorologist Steve Wilkinson told The Charlotte Observer on Tuesday.

Thats because Debby is very slow moving and not traveling in a straight line, he said.

If the rains spread out over time, flooding threats lessen, he said.

Forecasters also dont know when the worst of the deluge will descend on Charlotte.

Rains are expected all day Thursday, Thursday night and into Friday, Wilkinson said.

Through Saturday morning, the storm could dump 10 to 20 inches of rain on southeast Georgia, South Carolinas coastal plain and southeast North Carolina, The News & Observer reported. Some areas could see up to 30 inches.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport saw a big drop in canceled and delayed flights from Debby on Tuesday and Wednesday, compared with Monday.

On Wednesday, there were 479 flights delayed and 36 were canceled at CLT, according to FlightAware, an online website providing real-time information. Thats a combined 515 flight disruptions.

Early Thursday also started with a spate of problems, including 34 delays and nine cancellations by 7 a.m.

To prevent flooding on Charlotte streets, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services urged residents to check storm drains near their homes and clear any blockages. Mecklenburg County offices will be closed for in-person services Thursday.

Speedway campgrounds open to evacuees

All city of Monroe lakes will be closed Thursday and Friday due to the weather and potential flooding, Monroe Water Resources staff said.

At noon Wednesday, Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord opened its campgrounds to coastal and other evacuees.

Campers should check in at the Camping World Racing Resort office, 6600 Bruton Smith Blvd., which can be accessed at the entrance to zMAX Dragway.

After-hours arrivals should park near the camping office and check in during regular business hours. Evacuees will have access to speedway bathhouses.

This is a developing story that will be updated.

Debby will be mainly a rain event for our area, with highest amounts generally along the I-77 Corridor and the western NC Piedmont and areas east of I-26 in the SC Upstate. Rain begins after midnight tonight, so stay weather aware! #ncwx #scwx pic.twitter.com/JUAB35eF1P  NWS GSP (@NWSGSP) August 7, 2024

Heavy rain is possible in the Charlotte area later this week. Now is a good time check storm drains near your home and clear any blockages. pic.twitter.com/nXJphoOAlp  CharMeck Storm Water (@StormWaterCM) August 5, 2024
When two fishermen were caught cheating at a walleye fishing tournament in Clevelandthey put lead weights into the walleye they caughtthe boat they were using, along with its trailer, was seized as evidence.

Chase Cominsky, 37, and Jacob Runyan, 44, were ultimately convicted in May 2023 of felony cheating and misdemeanor animal ownership charges. They were fined $2,500, spent 10 days in jail and lost fishing privileges for three years, according to The Columbus Dispatch.

But what happened to the 2022 Ranger 622 FS Pro Bass Boat owned by Cominsky, since he was forced to forfeit it?

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources announced that it was sold in an online auction. The winning bid was $82,000 with a final price of $96,288.50, including fees and taxes.

And what will that money be used for? Perhaps fittingly, it will benefit law enforcement.

With this money, the Division of Wildlife will purchase a new Lake Erie law enforcement patrol vessel for Ohio Wildlife Officers, the ODNR stated.

Photo courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Cheating fishermans boat sold at auction, funds a good cause
ST. LOUIS  A registered sex offender from Chesterfield, Missouri, appeared in federal court on Tuesday and admitted having child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on his cellphone.

Prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said Charles R. Hamilton, 65, told the court he had 1,288 images and 185 videos of the illicit material saved on his phone through multiple social media accounts.

Law enforcement in Alabama in May 2023 successfully identified a Kik social media account that was being used to distribute CSAM. The account was registered to Hamilton, a convicted sex offender with an active registration requirement.

Alabama authorities interviewed Hamilton on May 25, 2023. He initially denied having an unregistered social media account, but acquiesced to a search of his phone.

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Investigators found an email account matching the one used to register for the Kik account. Hamilton admitted to having the Kik account but denied he was using said account for child pornography.

Investigators found child porn matching images distributed by the Kik account. Digital forensic examiners discovered Hamilton used Kik, Instagram, and Telegram accounts to receive and transmit child porn.

Hamilton pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography. Hell be sentenced on Feb. 13, 2025.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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NEW YORK, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Top election officials from five U.S. states urged Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of social media platform X, to immediately fix an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot on the platform, blaming it for spreading election misinformation.

In a letter sent on Monday, secretaries of state from Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Washington said that X's AI chatbot, Grok, gave out false election information, including one suggesting that U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris was not eligible to appear on the 2024 presidential ballot.

Within hours of President Joe Biden's announcement to suspend his presidential campaign on July 21, "false information on ballot deadlines produced by Grok was shared on multiple social media platforms," they said.

A post from Grok read: "The ballot deadline has passed for several states for the 2024 election," and named nine states: Alabama, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Washington.

The officials noted that the information was wrong and ballots were not closed in any of those nine states. Grok continued to repeat this false information "for more than a week until it was corrected on July 31, 2024."

Another version of Grok's false information about ballot deadlines told users that ballots for the coming presidential election were already "locked and loaded."

While Grok is available only to X Premium and Premium+ subscribers, the misinformation was shared across multiple social media platforms and reached millions of people, according to the letter.

The top election officials from the five states called on Musk to "immediately implement changes" to the AI chatbot "to ensure voters have accurate information in this critical election year."

"It's important that social media companies, especially those with global reach, correct mistakes of their own making -- as in the case of the Grok AI chatbot simply getting the rules wrong," Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon said in a statement to The Washington Post. 
At the Chicago Oyster House near McCormick Place, reservations for the week of Aug. 19 are light compared with a typical summer week.

Owner Rick Cheng speculated that diners might be trying to avoid the area during the Democratic National Convention. The Oyster House, at 1933 S. Indiana Ave., is located within the security perimeter outside of McCormick Place.

As for relying on conventiongoers for business, Cheng said, I dont know how thats going to turn out. Because of the uncertainty, he said, its hard to predict how to staff the restaurant.

Cheng said that typically people booking private parties during other large conventions book reservations months in advance. For the DNC, during which Chicago expects 50,000 visitors to descend upon the city, Cheng said, We got nada.

In interviews with the Tribune, representatives of the citys hospitality industry said they are hopeful, but not convinced, that the convention will be good for business.

Owners of restaurants and bars near the United Center and McCormick Place said they are not sure how security measures in place around both sites would affect business.

A pedestrian-only security zone around the United Center stretches from approximately Washington Boulevard on the north and Seeley Avenue on the west to Adams Street on the south, with the easternmost part of the border ending between Wood and Paulina streets.

Credentials are required within the pedestrian zone. Vehicles can enter a larger outer perimeter outside the United Center after going through security screening. That means, for instance, that employees or customers who might drive their vehicles into the yellow vehicle screening zone will need to have their cars screened and show ID. Employees who need to enter the red pedestrian security zone will need to have credentials, according to the citys Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection.

Similar restrictions are in place in the area outside McCormick Place.

Michael Salvatore, the owner of Froth, a coffee shop, and Bunker, a bar  both located outside the perimeter in a West Loop apartment building near the United Center  anticipates a busy week and said he had hired a few new staff members in preparation for the convention.

Salvatore plans to capitalize on the energy behind the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris, by offering coconut-themed drinks at both the coffee shop and bar. Harris phrase, You think you just fell out of a coconut tree? which the vice president has explained her mother used to say about ignoring historical context, has become highly memed since she became the presumptive nominee. Froth will offer an espresso shot mixed with coconut milk and topped off with sparkling water, and a frozen play on a pina colada will be on tap at Bunker, Salvatore said.

Its going to be all hands on deck, Salvatore said. Still, theres uncertainty, he said  between anticipated traffic and protests and the possibility the area could simply end up being a dead zone.

Sam Toia, president of the Illinois Restaurant Association, said Milwaukee restaurants had not gotten as big of a boost as theyd hoped for during the Republican National Convention last month.

But Toia said he is hopeful that restaurants here would see a surge of business after the convention lets out after 10 p.m. each night, particularly in the Gold Coast, River North and West Loop.

Thats what were hoping for, he said, adding that he thought what he described as the really good energy tied to Harris presumptive nomination would translate to more wining-and-dining during the convention.

Toia hoped the city might consider allowing sidewalk cafes and patios to stay open later than 11 p.m. or midnight, respectively, if that late-night influx of business does materialize.

The citys Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Department said it began reaching out to businesses about the convention in April in conjunction with the Secret Service and Chicago police. The department said it had reached out to nearly 1,400 businesses near the United Center and McCormick Place through in-person canvassing. The department will hold a town hall Wednesday to allow the owners and operators of businesses within the security perimeter to ask questions about the DNC.

Cobra Lounge, a music venue and bar located near the United Center but outside the security perimeter, will be putting on free punk rock shows for that whole week, general manager Louie Mendicino said.

Kind of our little middle finger to the whole establishment, Mendicino said, adding: Were sick of the divisive nature of Democrats vs. Republicans, were sick of it being the constant news cycle and were sick of having poor candidates.

However, the lounge is happy to have anyone from the convention that respects the neighborhood and wants to come in for a drink, he said.

Hopefully, we meet some new people, but for the most part, its business as usual for us, he said.
CHICAGO  The citys Deputy Mayor of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights on Tuesday said officials are no longer expecting bus loads of migrants from the southern border ahead of the Democratic National Convention.

Full Coverage: Migrants in Chicago

We are not expecting 25,000 migrants or any other very large influx of migrants. The governor has certainly threatened to do that, and to send people here. Theres lots of speculation and concern about it, Beatriz Ponce de Leon said on WGN Radios The Lisa Dent Show, referring to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

Abbott at the Republican National Convention told attendees the bussing of people who crossed the southern border to other cities would continue until we finally secure our border.

Ponce de Leon called Abbotts comments a political stunt.

WGN Radio: Beatriz Ponce de Leon on The Lisa Dent Show

At a meeting of the city councils Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights last month, she said officials were preparing for an influx of migrants, putting the number upwards of 25,000.

As of Monday, Chicago has welcomed 45,881 migrants aboard nearly 950 buses to the city since August 2022. There were 5,567 people in 17 active shelters run by the city and state on Monday, according to a statement from the city.

The Democratic National Convention begins Aug. 19.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Chicago voters may now apply to Vote By Mail for November election

CHICAGO  Chicagoans can now apply to Vote By Mail for the November 5 general election.

Voters may go directly to the Chicago Board of Elections website to request a mail-in ballot, and can select to receive it in English/Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean, or Tagalog. Voters may also call (312) 269-7936.

The deadline to apply to Vote By Mail is Oct. 31.

Voters who previously signed up for the permanent Vote By Mail roster for will automatically receive a mail-in ballot for the general election.

When voters apply online to Vote By Mail, the Election Board will send emails to that voter:

When their application is accepted,

When their ballot is mailed,

When the Election Board receives their Ballot Return Envelope, and

When their ballot has been processed and counted.

To learn more about Voting By Mail, go to: chicagoelections.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 WGN-TV.
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  A 7-year-old boy from Chicopee, had a full day of police work after his wish was granted to become an honorary police officer.

Make-A-Wish: Chicopee boy receives party before trip to Disney World

Xander has cystic fibrosis which can severely affect the lungs, digestive system, and other organs in the body. In July, the Chicopee Police Department escorted Xander to Raymour and Flanigan for a Disney-jungle-themed party. It was a way to bring some added joy before he left for Walt Disney World Resort, a wish granted by the Make a Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island Foundation.

The Chicopee Police Department also offered Xander a day as an honorary officer, fulfilling his other wish of becoming a police officer. On Tuesday, Xander was made an honorary officer for the day by the Chicopee Police Department.

Xander started his day at the Holyoke Police Academy to begin his career in law enforcement. He was named squad leader and ran the morning exercises including raising the flag. Once Xander received his certificate of completion he was sworn in by Chicopee Mayor John Vieau.

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As an official honorary police officer, Xander first helped fly several drones and learn how they are used in critical incidents. Next, he was assigned to traffic enforcement using radar and lidar units to slow traffic down near the police station. Xander even got to take over as the commander of the Underwater Response Team and patrol the Connecticut River.

Bob the Bike Guy Charland made a custom Chicopee Police Bike with working lights and a siren for Xander. Using his new bike, Xander patrolled Ray Ash Park with the Chicopee Police Bicycle Unit.

Still on duty, Xander was called to Westover Air Force Base to assist the Massachusetts State Police with getting their helicopter ready for a mission. He was taken on a tour of the aircraft and was able to help drive it out of the hangar.

Thanks to Falls Pizza for lunch, Xander reported back to his training and learned about fingerprinting with the Detective Bureau. Lastly, he assisted the Special Response Team with a high-risk traffic stop and arrested the driver.

A retirement party was held at the end of the day in the training room and Xander was presented with his retirement coin and a cake! Xander, we all wish you a happy retirement and extend our support to you going forward. It was a pleasure working with you today, The Chicopee Police Department said on Facebook.

(Chicopee Police Department)

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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
A childhood memory sent her father to prison for murder. Was it real?

George Franklin in court in Redwood City in 1990, accused of the 1969 slaying of Susan Nason, 8. The accuser: his daughter, who said she'd suddenly recalled the murder. (Russell D. Curtis / Pool Photo via Associated Press)

The memory of the murder, buried in her mind for 20 years, came back in a flash.

Eileen Franklin-Lipsker suddenly knew who had killed her childhood best friend, 8-year-old Susan Nason, who was abducted in September 1969 and found with her head crushed. She knew just how it had happened, and who had done it. She had been there.

The killer was my father, she said.

Detectives and prosecutors embraced her story, which became the basis of the 1990 murder trial of George Franklin, a 51-year-old retired firefighter. At stake was not just Franklins freedom but the validity of a trending theory about the dynamics of the mind. Was repressed memory  said by advocates to be a defense against trauma  a real phenomenon or the invention of misguided therapists?

Taking the stand as the governments star witness against her father, Franklin-Lipsker claimed that for decades she had forgotten what happened to Susan, her neighbor and third-grade classmate at Foster City Elementary. It all came back unbidden, she said, as she was playing with her own daughter.

Now, she recalled being in her fathers Volkswagen van when he picked up Susan in their suburban neighborhood and drove to an isolated area. She recalled her father molesting Susan, then lifting a rock and crushing the girls skull. She recalled a ring on her friends hand being smashed as the victim tried to ward off the blow.

Police had found a ring at the crime scene, and San Mateo County prosecutors said that corroborated Franklin-Lipskers story. How, they asked, could she possibly know about it if she hadnt been there?

Eileen Franklin-Lipsker testified in 1990 that she'd suddenly remembered her father molesting Susan Nason and crushing the 8-year-old's head with a rock. (Joe Melena / Peninsula Times Tribune via Associated Press)

Defense attorney Douglas Horngrad had an answer, and he tried desperately to get it in front of the jury:

The San Mateo Times and other newspapers had covered the case heavily in 1969, as had TV stations, and Horngrad had compiled a package of news clippings and video proving that police had publicly discussed the ring and other details. Judge Thomas Smith, a former prosecutor himself, refused to let the jury see the news coverage.

He knew that if he let those articles in, it would imperil the prosecution, and he didnt want to do that, Horngrad told The Times in a recent interview.

The defendant  stone-faced, craggy-featured and seemingly emotionless  was hard to sympathize with. He could not furnish an alibi. And testimony from Franklin-Lipsker and her sister painted him as a violent, sexually abusive alcoholic.

Franklin-Lipskers story shifted and changed. In one account, her sister Janice had been in the van; in another, she wasnt. The murder was in the morning, then in the late afternoon. But the contradictions did not cause jurors to disbelieve her, said Harry MacLean, who wrote about the case in the book Once Upon a Time: A True Story of Memory, Murder and the Law.

The problem was, the jury sat there and took that as evidence of how damaged she was from having George Franklin as a father, MacLean said. It was making her more sympathetic.

No physical evidence ever linked Franklin to the scene, but the jury convicted him of first-degree murder.

George Franklin was an offensive human being, MacLean said, adding that jurors hed interviewed were able to rationalize the verdict by saying: If he didnt kill Susan Nason, he did enough other stuff that he needs to pay.

Calling him a depraved and wicked man, the judge sentenced Franklin to life in prison and said he regretted he could not send him to death row.

::

Looking at it from 30,000 feet, the whole case was very much a creature of the times. The whole explosion in child sexual abuse had a huge impact in the culture, MacLean said.

When Franklin was charged, the McMartin preschool molestation case  which alleged Satanic ritual abuse on a massive scale  was still slogging through the Los Angeles courts, en route to zero convictions.

The Franklin case was the first of the recovered memory persecutions, said Richard Ofshe, a professor emeritus of social psychology at UC Berkeley and coauthor of Making Monsters: False Memories, Psychotherapy, and Sexual Hysteria.

It is absolutely Middle Ages voodoo, Ofshe said. Its just mythology. There was a time when that stuff was really popular. It was the major psychiatric quackery of our time.

Friends support Eileen Franklin-Lipsker, center, in 1995 after a judge reversed her father's conviction in what was also a blow for the supposed science behind repressed memories. (Peter DaSilva / Associated Press)

Some therapists promoted the notion that a persons emotional troubles were conveniently traceable to an unremembered trauma.

These quacks would tell them, The reason your life is in disarray is you suffered a trauma that youve repressed, and we need to get to the root of it, Ofshe said.

At the time, a popular book was The Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse by Ellen Bass and Laura Davis. Among its controversial lines: If you are unable to remember any specific instances [of abuse] but still have a feeling that something abusive happened to you, it probably did.

The Franklin case proved pivotal in the career of Elizabeth Loftus, a memory scientist who would become one of the most frequently cited and influential researchers in the field of psychology.

Loftus regarded so-called recovered memories as concoctions spun not from solid facts but from the vaporous breezes of wishes, dreams, fears, desires.

She had testified as an expert for Franklins defense team, and said she found the courtroom awash in credulity about the mythic powers of repression.

At the time, her research showed that the specifics of real memories could be altered, but not that you could plant an entire rich and detailed memory of



the kind Franklin-Lipsker seemed to possess, Loftus told The Times in a recent interview.

Fueled by the Franklin case, Loftus designed a false-memory experiment: In it, researchers reminded participants of three real events from their childhoods  the stories having been obtained from older relatives  and added a fake fourth story, telling subjects they'd gotten lost in a mall as children and were rescued by an elderly woman.

A full 25% in the study developed partial or complete memories of the made-up event. Loftus and other researchers have since succeeded in implanting subjects with false memories of near-drownings, dog attacks and other events that had never happened.

Theres now a decent-sized literature on how far you can go in planting memories, Loftus said. That, I would say, is one benefit that directly flowed from the Franklin case.

::

George Franklin leaves San Mateo County jail 1996 with supporters who fought to overturn his conviction. Research has shown that people sometimes "remember" things that never happened. (Lea Suzuki / San Francisco Chronicle via Associated Press)

Eileen Franklin-Lipsker got a book deal. She appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show and Donahue. Shelley Long, of Cheers fame, played her in a TV movie.

But in 1995, a federal judge reversed her fathers conviction, citing flaws in the case  among them, that the news footage had been kept from jurors.

The case disintegrated as prosecutors prepared to retry it. Franklin-Lipskers mother, once a government witness, had come to doubt her daughters story.

And Janice Franklin now said she and her sister had both been hypnotized to enhance their supposed recollections, and had both lied in court when they denied it. Janice said her sister knew that hypnotically induced testimony was inadmissible by law.

Franklin-Lipsker further damaged her own credibility when she told police that she recalled her father committing another murder, in 1976. This time, George Franklin had a solid alibi  he was at a union meeting  and DNA evidence excluded him. (Another man was subsequently convicted in that case.)

Prosecutors decided not to risk trying Franklin a second time in Susan Nasons slaying. After more than six years in prison, he went free.

Recovered memory cases had been sprouting up like beanstalks, but once the reversal happened, everyone reanalyzed it, Franklins attorney said.

I think its pretty well accepted in the criminal justice system that one cannot and should not charge someone with a crime based on a repressed memory unless there is corroboration, Horngrad said. No prosecutor worth their salt is going to bring a case like this.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, left, talks with Zaylyn Alvarado, center, and his mother Dominique, right, while in Milwaukee on Monday, April 24, 2023, to visit the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Walk-In Clinic at Childrens Hospital. Zaylyn is among area youth who have benefited from the walk-in clinic that provides same-day care for children and teens (ages 5-18) experiencing urgent mental health issues. Last August, Gov. Evers provided $5 million to Childrens Wisconsin to expand the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Walk-In Clinic and to start a pediatric psychology residency program in partnership with the Medical College of Wisconsin.

It's been a little less than five years since Children's Wisconsin launched an ambitious five-year plan to significantly improve access to behavioral health care for children and adolescents. Now, those efforts have culminated into a name that's here to stay: the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Center.

The official name and designation comes on the heels of Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction releasing the results of the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey last week. Educators, researchers and mental health advocates have once again sounded the alarm that the intensifying youth mental health crisis isn't going anywhere.

Neither is the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Center.

The name may be familiar to those who have spent time at Children's main campus in Wauwatosa in the last year and a half. Children's Wisconsin opened the doors of the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Walk-in Clinic in March 2022, less than a year after former Fiserv Inc. CEO Jeffrey Yabuki donated $20 million to put therapists in every Childrens primary care and urgent care office in southeastern Wisconsin. It was named in memory of Jeffrey's brother, Craig Yabuki, who died by suicide in 2017.

To better honor the gift, Children's widened the scope of mental health services in Craig Yabuki's name, said Amy Herbst, vice president of mental and behavioral health at Children's. It's also a way to acknowledge the work being done by a large team of mental health professionals at Children's facilities across the state, Herbst said. The Craig Yabuki Mental Health Center officially opened July 31.

Amy Herbst Vice President of Behavioral and Mental Health at Children's Wisconsin, talks with Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, who was visiting the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Walk-In Clinic at Childrens Wisconsin Hospital on Monday, April 24, 2023 in Milwaukee.

"The center name is a testament to all the work that we've been doing, in terms of care delivery, quality, services, education and outreach," Herbst said.

In February, another new Craig Yabuki Mental Health Walk-In Clinic location opened in Kenosha, and two more clinics are in the works across the state, thanks to a $3 million donation from Kohl's.

The arrival of the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Center comes at a critical time for young people in Wisconsin. Children's provided mental health treatment to more than 150,000 patients in 2023, a 22% increase from just a year earlier, Herbst said. That same year, 6 out of 10 teenagers across the state self-reported in the 2023 Wisconsin Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) that they were anxious, depressed or suicidal each day.

The latest YRBS data, grim as it is, didn't surprise Herbst. Children's uses the data to help inform its decisions about what it's doing  and, as important, not doing  in service of mental health care. For example, therapists from Children's work in nearly 70 Wisconsin schools, providing mental health care and consultation to students. Students specifically voiced a need for more school-based mental health services in previous YRBS reports, which especially improves health care access for working families.

"For us, it's a data point, and also it's a proof point to say what we are doing continues to be needed," Herbst said.

The need has only grown, but so have creative solutions and the donations to make them happen.

In the last five years, Children's has bolstered its workforce

It wasn't too long ago that Children's announced its bold plan to significantly improve access to behavioral health care for children and adolescents. The plan, announced in 2019, came with a hefty price tag: Children's was projected to spend $150 million over five years. One of its goals was to double the number of pediatric behavioral health professionals in its system, from 137 to 280.

Amid implementing these initiatives (not to mention the pandemic, which brought on its own surge of mental health needs), a major challenge arose, one that wasn't unique to Wisconsin: long, frustrating wait lists to see a professional.

Craig Yabuki Mental Health Walk In Clinic at Children's Wisconsin on Friday, March 3, 2023. The Walk-In Clinic is a first of its kind in Milwaukee, offering immediate therapy services to anyone 5 to 18 years old that walks through its doors. The need is great, with the average patient 12 years old. Children who were experiencing urgent mental health issues previously would have been directed to an emergency room. Now, children are being directed to the clinic.

The $20 million donation from the Yabuki Family Foundation in 2021 helped ease some of those burdens, shrinking the outpatient waitlist by more than half over the course of nearly two years. Children's met its goal of integrating a therapist in each of its 20 pediatric clinics and, as of today, has hired 29 therapists in primary care and two in urgent care.

Still, resolving the workforce shortage is nothing short of a Herculean task. Even with this added workforce, more children are seeking outpatient therapy services. The current outpatient waitlist is 975 kids.

Some of that is because there are so many types of jobs to fill across its system, from psychologists and psychiatrists to nurse practitioners, Herbst said. Clinical training also takes time. Once a student earns their master's in counseling, they must complete 3,000 hours of clinical work before they can apply for a license.

But it isn't just a numbers game. Just as the mental health crisis intensifies, so too do the symptoms. For the third consecutive year, psychologists have reported patients need more lengthy treatments and are presenting with more severe symptoms, according to the American Psychological Associations 2023 Practitioner Pulse Survey.

These escalating conditions have fueled longer waitlists for nearly 40% of psychologists nationwide  if psychologists can accommodate new patients at all. Psychologists who serve children, teenagers and young adults are the most in demand. On top of that, more than a third of all psychologists are reporting burnout, despite concerted efforts to maintain self-care and a positive work-life balance.

The American Psychological Association projected that by 2025, Wisconsin will have 1,520 full-time psychologists, but the state will still need 250 psychologists to meet demands. By 2030, the state is projected to close that gap by nearly 40%, but that still means it'll be short 170 professionals.

"We are actively recruiting the workforce that we need. I am busy trying to hire more therapists. We are trying to hire more psychologists and psychiatrists," Herbst said. "There will likely never be enough."

One effective method at Children's, called the Children's Wisconsin Therapist Fellowship Program, is to hire recent psychology graduates who require 3,000 hours of clinical training, Herbst said. Following a $1 million donation from the Boldt Company in 2019, an Appleton-based construction company, graduates work full-time training under Children's professionals, are paid a competitive salary and have the same benefits as Herbst.

This expedites the training process, which typically takes five years to complete. Training is often accomplished on a volunteer basis while graduates work other jobs to support themselves, but the Therapist Fellowship Program allows graduates to complete their clinical hours in less than two years.

So far, nearly 30 aspiring therapists have participated in the program and have supported more than 1,285 families through more than 16,000 sessions. After these trainees became licensed therapists, nearly all of them stayed with Children's.

"It's allowed us to retain people here in state and also to have some people come back to the state, because maybe this is where they grew up, and they do want to live here," Herbst said.

The process has been effective enough that the Medical College of Wisconsin and the state of Wisconsin help support this training work, Herbst said.

Yet another way Children's has bolstered its workforce is to elevate the talent already there. Families have told Herbst and others at Children's that their trust for pediatricians extends to mental health. Kids and families feel most comfortable with their pediatricians, and they feel less of a stigma talking about mental health with pediatricians. Plus, kids with pediatricians at Children's have immediate access to a therapist, no wait list required.

Some of the funding from the Yabuki Family Foundation has helped enhance mental health training for pediatricians. Pediatricians not only get mental health training but they're able to work with integrated behavioral health consultants at their offices to screen patients for mental health conditions and perform treatment interventions.

"The pediatricians feel more supported and informed. The kids and families really value that care at the pediatrician office, from screening to intervention, and they want more of it," Herbst said.

The journey of 'treating mental health as health'

Ramping up behavioral health at Children's puts emphasis on a growing mindset among health care workers and the community at large that mental health is health. Meaning, maintaining good mental health should be just as established in medicine as taking care of our physical bodies.

Extensive studies have shown the lasting impacts of children who go untreated for existing mental health conditions, from detrimental developmental outcomes in young adulthood, lower academic success, poorer health-related qualities of life and ongoing mental health impairments in adulthood.

Mental health interventions in early schooling years, including screenings, targeted behavioral and/or cognitive-behavioral therapy, can improve outcomes for young people, a point that Herbst continues to emphasize.

Dr. Michael Gaffrey, the first-ever endowed chair of mental and behavioral health research at the Craig Yabuki Mental Health Center, has been conducting research at Children's to put cutting-edge science to practice in a timely manner. It can take up to a decade to get hospitals up to speed with new research, Herbst said, but under Gaffrey's leadership, she believes implementing novel tools over a relatively shorter window will lead to better insights and results.

One such topic Gaffrey and his team are exploring, for example, is looking at the science around brain functioning in kids  and how it relates to their mental and behavioral health.

He's also looking at internal data at Children's to assess how effective it's been to have integrated behavioral health consultants available to pediatricians. Herbst said it's important to not only have these tools available, but to know whether it's making a difference.

So far, early research shows it's making a positive difference in children's lives.

"Mental health is health, period. It's just that simple. Kids are telling us that through these (YRBS) reports," Herbst said. "We're trying to be responsive to that truth and say, 'Yes, mental health is health,' and 'Anxiety and depression and self harm (are) real,' and 'We are going to provide the care that you need in hopes of being part of the solution.'"

Natalie Eilbert covers mental health issues for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She welcomes story tips and feedback. You can reach her at neilbert@gannett.com or view her Twitter profile at @natalie_eilbert.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: How Craig Yabuki Mental Health Center fits Children's Wisconsin plan
(Bloomberg) -- Chilean President Gabriel Boric accused Nicolas Maduro of trying to steal Venezuelas election and said his administration is violating human rights, ratcheting up global criticism of last months contested vote.

Most Read from Bloomberg

I have no doubt that Maduros regime has tried to commit fraud, Boric told reporters Wednesday at the presidential palace in Santiago. If not, then they would have shown the voting records. Why havent they done so? If they had clearly won, then they would have shown the records.

Maduros administration is now committing serious human rights violations by oppressing protesters, Boric added. Chiles government neither trusts the independence nor the impartiality of Venezuelan institutions, he said.

Chile doesnt recognize Maduros self-proclaimed triumph, Boric said. We wont validate results that havent been verified by international organizations that are independent from the regime.

Since taking office in 2022, Boric has spoken out against international human rights violations from Gaza to Ukraine and Nicaragua. He was one of the first heads of state to question the outcome of Venezuelas election, saying shortly after the initial results were released that the Maduro victory was hard to believe.

The US said last week that Maduros opposition rival, Edmundo Gonzalez, clearly won the most votes and called for a peaceful transition of power. Regional heavyweights Brazil, Mexico and Colombia, meanwhile, are refraining from taking sides until a thorough accounting of the vote is released.

Boric met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in a previously-scheduled state visit this week, with both leaders only briefly referring to Venezuela in public. Lula is coordinating with his Mexican and Colombian counterparts on potential calls with both Maduro and Gonzalez, according to Brazilian officials familiar with the matter.

Venezuelas regime-controlled electoral authority says Maduro won 52% of the vote, but it has yet to release detailed results. The opposition has published records from about 80% of voting stations that suggest Gonzalez secured at least 70% support, sparking nationwide protests.

Maduro, who has ruled Venezuela since the death of his mentor Hugo Chavez 11 years ago, has threatened to jail Gonzalez and banned opposition leader Maria Corina Machado for fomenting dissent and alleged electoral meddling.

The government said Monday it had arrested at least 2,200 protesters, with Maduro promising to send them to maximum-security prisons for 30 years  the same sentence doled out to murderers. Human-rights organizations, whose tally of detentions is lower, say 24 people have been killed by the regime since the election. The news media is also being targeted, with 7 local reporters being locked up and 14 other media workers deported, according to Venezuelas journalists union.

Separately Wednesday, Gonzalez declined to appear before the Supreme Tribunal of Justice in Caracas. The regime-controlled top court is conducting an audit of the results and Maduros accusations that it was the opposition that attempted to rig the vote. Gonzalez, in a post on X, cited concerns about both the legality of the proceedings as well as his own safety in explaining his decision not to attend.

Attending the hearing, he said, would put at risk not only my freedom but, more importantly, the will of the Venezuelan people expressed on July 28.

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SANTIAGO (Reuters) - Chile's President Gabriel Boric said on Wednesday he does not recognize Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro "self-proclaimed" victory in the country's hotly contested election late last month.

The rejection of Maduro's claim that he won the July 28 election by the center-left Boric echoes similar positions adopted by his counterparts across Latin America, including in Guatemala, Argentina and Peru.

Other governments, including regional heavyweights Brazil and Mexico, have instead opted to push for Maduro's government to release full vote tallies, but it has so far failed to do so.

"I have no doubt that Maduro's government has attempted to commit fraud in Venezuela's election," Boric told reporters, adding that the government would have released detailed election results if its victory was clear.

Boric stressed that he will only recognize results verified by independent international organizations, and he did not explicitly endorse Venezuela opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez claim that he won.

The Chilean president also accused Maduro's government of committing "serious human rights violations," including the repression of the right to protest as well as the persecution of opposition leaders.

(Reporting by Fabian Cambero; Writing by Aida Pelaez-Fernandez; Editing by David Alire Garcia)
Pets hiding under the blanket ( lightfieldstudios (123RF))

As of January 1, 2024, Service Members PCSing to Poland can be reimbursed up for one household pet, either cat or dog, up to $2,000 to cover costs related to the transportation of a pet. Civilians are advised to claim pet PCS costs under MIHA.

ARRIVING IN POLAND

Pets younger than three months are not allowed to enter Poland. Before you ship or travel with your pet, you must obtain:

All pets must have a valid rabies vaccination taken at least 21 days before they arrive in Poland.

EU Health Certificate, which cannot be older than 10 days before arriving in Europe. Military vets are usually familiar with this certificate, but civilian vets may need several weeks to order the certificate from the Department of Agriculture.

Electronic microchip (ISO 11784/11785) 15-digit or compatible pet microchip implant. If your pet already has a microchip implant that is not ISO compatible, you can bring your own microchip scanner (or you can rent it from the microchips manufacturer)

EU pet passport certifying a valid anti-rabies vaccination. If more information is required please visit: https://www.pettravel.com/immigration/poland.cfm.

Restricted Dog Breeds in Poland

American Pitt Bull Terrier

Ca de Bou (Perro de presa Mallorquin)

American Bulldog

Dago Argentina (Argentine Mastiff )

Perro de Presa Canario

Tosa Inu

Rottweiler

Akbash Dog

The Anatolian Shepherd dog/Moscow Guard Dog

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Transportation and Quarantine

Cat and dog transportation and quarantine charges are not a separately reimbursable

expense but may be claimed as Miscellaneous Expense Allowance (MEA) as authorized for civilian employees. To qualify, civilians must elect actual expense (itemized) verses flat rate.

Non-transportation and handling pet-related expenses are not reimbursable. See the DTMO website for details on these expenses. When a traveler does not use a City Pair Program airfare because a pet cannot travel on the same aircraft, the Government is not financially responsible for costs greater than the most economical travel method.

Additional Resources:

 USDA Pet Travel Information: aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel

 USDA Pat Travel to Poland: aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/by-country/eu/pettravel-poland

 Polish Veterinary Inspectorate: wetgiw.gov.pl/english/travelling-with-pets-fromthird-countries

VACCINATIONS

Poland accepts 1-, 2- and 3-year vaccines. The following lists the vaccines that must be kept current.

Dogs

 Rabies vaccination

 Distemper combo vaccination (DA2PP)

 Leptospirosis vaccination in the pets lifetime. Two doses of leptospirosis vaccine is recommended (primary and booster).

Cats

 Rabies vaccination

 Feline distemper (FVRCP) vaccine in the pets lifetime

During the summer months, be sure to keep your pet hydrated and provide booties to protect their paws on the hot ground. For airline travel, note that most airlines will not ship pets during the summer months.

VETERINARY CLINICS

With no veterinarian on installation to see personal pets, you must find a veterinarian to care for your furry friends medical needs.

Local Veterinarians in Poznan

Przychodnia weterynaryjna SunVet

Facebook: facebook.com/przychodniasunvet

Phone: +48 (0)730-810-030

Address: Brzask 10/205, 60-369

Veterinary Practice A.Golec M.Rybski S.C.
China issues safety warning to its citizens over rioting in the UK

A firework is thrown towards police during an anti-immigration demonstration near the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. After the knife attack on children in Southport on 29 July 2024, numerous nationalist and anti-Islamic protests inflame the mood in the UK. Danny Lawson/PA Wire/dpa

China is warning its citizens to pay particular attention to their safety while visiting the United Kingdom because of the right-wing extremist riots in the country.

Chinese citizens and tourists should avoid travelling to the affected locations, according to advice issued by China's diplomatic mission in London. They should also keep a close eye on the security situation.

There has been rioting on the streets of several English cities for over a week, mostly by right-wing extremists who attacked police and targeted Muslims and asylum seekers.

Tensions have been fuelled my rumours and misinformation shared on social media about the identity of the Southport knife attacker.

A 17-year-old allegedly stabbed three girls and injured other children and adults in the north-west English town on July 29.

The police there denied a false report that the perpetrator was a Muslim migrant and announced that the suspect was born in the UK to Rwandan parents.

China is not the first country to warn its citizens to be careful while visiting the UK. The Indian High Commissioner in London warned that visitors should remain vigilant and "exercise due caution."

Australia recommended "avoiding areas where protests are taking place due to the risk of disruption and violence."

Malaysia, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates have also issued warnings. The Nigerian Foreign Ministry emphasized that there was "an increased risk of violence and disorder."

Germany has not changed its travel and safety advice for the UK as a result of the riots.

A police officer helps a fallen woman during an anti-immigration demonstration in Middlesbrough. After the knife attack on children in Southport on 29 July 2024, numerous nationalist and anti-Islamic protests inflame the mood in the UK. Owen Humphreys/PA Wire/dpa

A garbage can thrown at police officers during an anti-immigration demonstration in Middlesbrough. After the knife attack on children in Southport on 29 July 2024, numerous nationalist and anti-Islamic protests inflame the mood in the UK. Owen Humphreys/PA Wire/dpa

A car burns on Parliament Road in Middlesbrough during an anti-immigration demonstration. After the knife attack on children in Southport on 29 July 2024, numerous nationalist and anti-Islamic protests inflame the mood in the UK. Owen Humphreys/PA Wire/dpa

Firefighters extinguish a burning car on Parliament Road in Middlesbrough during an anti-immigration demonstration. After the knife attack on children in Southport on 29 July 2024, numerous nationalist and anti-Islamic protests inflame the mood in the UK. Owen Humphreys/PA Wire/dpa

Abdelkader Mohamad Al Alloush, owner of the Sham Supermarket sits outsude his destroyed shop on Donegall Road in Belfast. The shop was burned during disorder in the area following an anti-immigration protest on Saturday. Another attempt was made to burn it during the disorder on Monday night. Rebecca Black/PA Wire/dpa

Abdelkader Mohamad Al Alloush, owner of the Sham Supermarket sits outsude his destroyed shop on Donegall Road in Belfast. The shop was burned during disorder in the area following an anti-immigration protest on Saturday. Another attempt was made to burn it during the disorder on Monday night. Rebecca Black/PA Wire/dpa
Chinese academic convicted of acting as foreign agent in US

A view of the exterior of the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse, in New York City, New York

By Luc Cohen

NEW YORK (Reuters) -A Chinese academic was convicted on Tuesday of illegally acting as a foreign agent in the United States by collecting information about New York-based activists supporting democracy in China and sharing his findings with Beijing.

A jury found Wang Shujun guilty on four counts including acting as a foreign agent without notifying the U.S. attorney general and lying to U.S. authorities, following a week-long trial in Brooklyn federal court.

Wang could face up to 25 years in prison when he is sentenced on Jan. 9, 2025.

Federal prosecutors said Wang, a naturalized U.S. citizen, portrayed himself as a fierce opponent of the ruling Chinese Communist Party to gain the trust of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists, advocates for Taiwanese independence and campaigners for Uyghur and Tibetan rights.

Prosecutors said Wang was actually spying on the activists and sharing his findings with four officials in China's Ministry of State Security (MSS), an intelligence service.

"The indictment could have been the plot of a spy novel, but the evidence is shockingly real," Breon Peace, the top federal prosecutor in the New York City borough of Brooklyn, said in a statement. "Wang was willing to betray those who respected and trusted him."

Wang, who emigrated to the United States in 1994, was arrested in March 2022.

Defense lawyer Zachary Margulis-Ohnuma said Wang spoke to the intelligence officials about the pro-democracy movement to win their support and promote social change, and was not acting as their agent.

Margulis-Ohnuma said he respected the jury's verdict and would request a sentence that spares Wang the "agony" of prison.

"We look forward to sentencing," Margulis-Ohnuma told reporters after the verdict. "He's a 76-year-old man. He certainly didn't mean to hurt anyone. He's spent his life fighting the communist regime."

The U.S. Department of Justice has in recent years cracked down on what it calls "transnational repression" by U.S. adversaries such as China and Iran.

That term refers to the surveillance, intimidation and in some cases attempted repatriation or murder of activists against those governments.

Last year, a former New York City police sergeant was convicted of acting as a Chinese agent by intimidating a U.S.-based fugitive to return to his homeland and face charges.

U.S. prosecutors have also charged four Chinese intelligence officers who allegedly acted as Wang's handlers. Those officers are at large and believed to be in China.

(Reporting by Luc Cohen in New YorkEditing by Matthew Lewis)
[Source]

A Chinese woman who had been targeted and blamed for the death of her gaming influencer ex-boyfriend was exonerated after police concluded that there was no scam involved in their relationship. Many social media users harassed the woman, Tan Zhu, following the death of 20-year-old Liu Jie, known online as Pangmao or Fat Cat, who jumped to his death from a bridge in Chongqing on April 11.

Being targeted: Tan became a hated figure online after Liu's sister revealed her personal information, including bank transactions that showed Liu had transferred at least 500,000 yuan ($69,000) to her while they were still together. Several social media users accused Tan of being a scammer responsible for Liu's death. Liu's sister allegedly paid social media agencies to amplify the accusations online and garner more views, resulting in Tan receiving death threats, according to a Chongqing police investigation.

What happened next: In an update on May 19, Chongqing police cleared Tans name in the death of Liu, reaffirming that their relationship did not involve fraud. Authorities also revealed that, while Liu had sent money to Tan, she had also transferred a total of 450,000 yuan ($62,000) to him. Meanwhile, Chongqing police stated that Lius sister and several other influencers who infringed on Tans privacy and manipulated public opinion may face administrative penalties.

If you or anyone you know is at risk of self-harm, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24-hour support at 1-800-273-8255.

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Aug 7, 2024, 2:27pm EDT East Asia

The News

Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz has turned into an overnight media sensation in China.

The Minnesota governors experience teaching English in China in 1989, spending his honeymoon there, and organizing student trips to the country has led many Chinese social media users to hope that he could help thaw fraught US-China relations if elected.

But even as Republicans in the US have sought to paint Walz, 60, as pro-China, he has a history of being an outspoken critic of the countrys human rights record.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

A possible foil to anti-China Vance

Sources: Phoenix TV, Three Point Sword, South China Morning Post

Some Chinese state media outlets and online commentators expressed enthusiasm about Walz. As a future vice president, Walz could quell US-China tensions by continuing to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two superpowers, Phoenix TV wrote. One WeChat security blog compared Walzs stance to his Republican rival, JD Vance, saying the latter has been gunning down China and blaming it for everything since his nomination. However, other observers believed Walz would adopt a tough stance toward Beijing despite his personal connections to the country. I dont think their China policy depends on their past experiences, I think it still depends on the American perception of their own economic status, one US-China expert said.

Chinese social media users voice skepticism

Sources: BBC, CNN

Chinese social media commentators pointed out that Walz taught in China during the year of the Tiananmen Square massacre, with some casting suspicion on his motives for being there at that time. Foreigners in China are the most anti-China during that period, one user said, according to the BBC. The sentiment reflected the rising nationalism and anti-foreigner mood in China: The countrys top spy agency this year released a video encouraging ordinary citizens to spot cunning and sneaky foreign spies they might encounter in their everyday lives.

Hong Kong activists filled with enthusiasm and optimism

Source: Voice of America

Several Hong Kong activists touted Walz as the vice presidential pick given his support for the territorys democratic movement. Jeffrey Ngo, a member of the now-disbanded Hong Kong pro-democracy party, Demosisto, noted that Walz was the sole House Democrat to continue sponsoring a human rights bill for Hong Kong in 2017, and that he had evolved his position on Hong Kong over the years. Walzs posts on X showing his meeting with imprisoned Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong in 2017 and tracking the number of Tibetan political prisoners detained by China also circulated among activists. Ngo wrote on the platform that he was filled with enthusiasm and optimism about Walzs potential role in helping fight for Hong Kongs cause.
What happened: Li, a sophomore, ran away to Beijing to find a part-time job and gain independence from her parents. She spoke to Officer Zhang Chuanbin in Beijing to inform the police of her situation in advance, fearing that her parents might report her missing to provincial authorities. According to Li, her parents not only installed a security camera in her room but also hit her and threw her phone on the floor whenever she made mistakes, causing her trauma.
Chris Hayes has thoughts about the GOPs arguments against Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the most genuine, regular guy on a major American party ticket, the highest-ranking enlisted soldier ever to serve in Congress, whose biggest political achievement is making sure no kids go hungry in schools.

In fact, the MSNBC host thinks the Republican partys reaction to Vice President Kamala Harris running mate is making them sound even more racist and transphobic, more unhinged and frankly, weirder and weirder.

Hayes commentary comes hours after Harris officially introduced Walz as her running mate ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Walz, who is credited with having sparked current political discourse describing Donald Trump, JD Vance and the GOP as weird, has figured out how to get under the partys skin, Hayes noted.

I mean, they have been whining about it a lot, he said Tuesday evening. And so today when Kamala Harris picked Tim Walz for her running mate, it was kind of weird when Republicans were celebrating, suggesting this is a matchup they actually wanted.

After he pointed out that Republicans have most recently attempted to brand Walz, who visited San Francisco for the first time this month, as a San Francisco liberal, Hayes pointed out that Vance is the one whos lived in the city for years and years making big tech money and Silicon Valley connections that bankrolled his political future.

Vance moved to San Francisco in 2013 after he graduated from law school. He moved back to Ohio four years later.

The problem facing the party, Hayes added, is that Republicans are going to find out, I think, that framing a gun-owning, Midwest nice guy as a radical far left commie ends up painting you into some really weird corners  such as implying that Minnesota, the 32nd state, is actually closer to being part of Canada.

The post Chris Hayes Says GOP Attacks Against Walz Make Them Sound Unhinged and, Frankly, Weirder | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
Christine Boston 'honored and happy' to be promoted to superintendent of Dover schools

DOVER  Christine Boston, assistant superintendent of the citys public school system, is poised to take over the districts top spot upon the scheduled retirement of current superintendent William Harbron next summer.

Dover School Board chairperson Robin Trefethen announced Bostons appointment to SAU 11 staff on Aug. 1, nearly one full year before Bostons tenure would officially commence. If approved by the School Board, Bostons term for the 2025-25 school year would begin July 1, 2025, following Harbrons retirement.

Boston has been employed by SAU 11 since 2008. She has served as a Dover Middle School dean of students, co-principal of the middle school, principal of Dover High School, and later the special education administrator for the entire city school system before being named assistant superintendent.

The School Board will vote on Bostons appointment to the position Monday, Aug. 12, according to Trefethen.

Christine Boston 'honored and happy'

Christine Boston, assistant superintendent of SAU 11 in Dover, has been appointed as the next leader of the school district to replace current superintendent William Harbron after the end of the 2024-25 academic year.

My sons went through the Dover school system and had fantastic experiences here, she said Tuesday. I am really honored and happy to be able to finish my career in public education in Dover. I dont have any desire to go anywhere else besides here. Theres just no place I'd rather be than Dover.

Boston was employed first by the Strafford Learning Center in Somersworth prior to working in Dover, then at Barrington Middle School as a special educator and coordinator of the schools special education department. She received her undergraduate degree in American studies from Franklin Pierce University, specializing in American literature and history, then received her masters degree in special education and a certificate in advanced graduate studies in educational leadership from Plymouth State University before completing her doctorate at the school in 2017.

Hiring Boston means no national superintendent search will be conducted to find Harbrons successor.

Dr. Boston brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence, and we are confident she will be an exceptional leader for our district, Trefethen wrote to staff last week.

Boston will work with Harbron for one more year

Harbron and Boston, two longtime colleagues, will be working together closely during the year to ensure a smooth and effective transition of leadership, Trefethen wrote on Aug. 1.

This collaboration will be vital in maintaining our districts momentum and in fostering a seamless transition that benefits our students, staff, and community, the board's chairperson added.

Harbrons retirement next summer will cap his 50-year career in public education, with the last eight spent in the Garrison City. Harbron arrived in Dover for the 2017-18 school year from the West Muskingum school district in Ohio to replace Elaine Arbour as superintendent.

Harbron signed a one-year contract to remain in Dover for the 2024-25 academic year.

His replacement called Harbron the consummate educator and hailed his service in Dover.

Bill is one of the most genuine and authentic educators I've ever worked with, Boston said. There is no agenda for Bill other than doing the next right thing for kids. Its an honor to watch him serve. He is a servant-leader so hes going to be a tough act to follow in that regard.

The existing assistant superintendent said she underwent two months of interviews with the School Board, staff, students and union leadership.

Boston outlines her priorities for superintendent role

Moving into the superintendent slot, she sees attracting and retaining top talent as a key issue for the district, particularly finding paraeducators and mental health and psychology staff. Boston plans to focus on student and staff wellness during her time as superintendent, work to offer a top tier curriculum to all students and amplify and highlight all positive momentum in the district.

Boston gave an appreciative nod to the working relationship between the School Board and the City Council relative to supporting Dovers schools.

We have so many community allies here from the mental health resources, the police department and the fire department. Those community allies make a huge difference in giving a good education to kids, she said.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Christine Boston to be promoted to Dover schools superintendent
The presidents of Christopher Newport University and Tidewater Community College signed an agreement Tuesday that will make it easier for community college students to transfer to CNU for a four-year degree.

The partnership guarantees TCC students admission to CNU once they have earned at least 16 credits with at least a 2.5 grade-point average. It will also facilitate a CNU grant program for TCC transfer students who have demonstrated financial need, conditional on available funding.

Other perks of the program include waived application fees when students are ready to apply or reapply to CNU, increased advising services to support preparation and transition, early access to events and support services and early access to CNUs on-campus events. The program also provides resources such as transfer visits and tours as well as writing, career, financial literacy and student success workshops.

The partnership, known as the CNU Ready program, was launched during a ceremony at Christopher Newport Hall.

In a news release, CNU President William Kelly said the agreement embodies our shared commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities for the students of Hampton Roads.

CNU entered a similar agreement this year with Virginia Peninsula Community College.

TCC is the second largest community college in Virginia, with nearly 25,000 students enrolled. It has campuses in Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach.

We are pleased and proud to partner with Christopher Newport in providing access and opportunity for our students and, together, building a better community, TCC President Marcia Conston said in the release.

Josh Janney, joshua.janney@virginiamedia.com
The UK market has faced challenges recently, with the FTSE 100 closing lower due to weak trade data from China and concerns over global economic conditions. Despite these headwinds, investors often seek growth companies with strong insider ownership as they can indicate confidence in the company's future prospects.

Top 10 Growth Companies With High Insider Ownership In The United Kingdom

Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth Filtronic (AIM:FTC) 28.6% 33.5% Plant Health Care (AIM:PHC) 34.4% 121.3% Gulf Keystone Petroleum (LSE:GKP) 12.1% 74.6% Integrated Diagnostics Holdings (LSE:IDHC) 26.7% 23.5% Helios Underwriting (AIM:HUW) 23.9% 14.7% Belluscura (AIM:BELL) 39.5% 117.8% Velocity Composites (AIM:VEL) 27.6% 173.3% Judges Scientific (AIM:JDG) 11.9% 26.2% B90 Holdings (AIM:B90) 24.4% 142.7% Hochschild Mining (LSE:HOC) 38.4% 53.8%

Click here to see the full list of 66 stocks from our Fast Growing UK Companies With High Insider Ownership screener.

We'll examine a selection from our screener results.

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Franchise Brands plc, with a market cap of 334.47 million, operates through its subsidiaries to engage in franchising and related activities across the United Kingdom, North America, and Europe.

Operations: The company's revenue segments include Azura (0.75 million), Pirtek (41.95 million), B2C Division (6.11 million), Water & Waste (48.88 million), and Filta International (27.12 million).

Insider Ownership: 29.8%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 11.5% p.a.

Franchise Brands, a UK growth company with substantial insider ownership, is forecast to grow earnings by 40.65% annually and revenue by 11.5% per year, outpacing the broader market. Despite trading at 51.7% below estimated fair value and experiencing significant insider buying recently, profit margins have declined from last year. Recent executive changes include the appointment of Andrew Mallows as Interim CFO following Mark Fryer's departure and Christopher Stuckey joining as a Director.

AIM:FRAN Ownership Breakdown as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Loungers plc operates cafes, bars, and restaurants under the Lounge and Cosy Club brand names in England and Wales, with a market cap of 287.66 million.

Operations: The company's revenue primarily comes from operating cafe bars and cafe restaurants, generating 353.49 million.

Insider Ownership: 13.7%

Story continues

Revenue Growth Forecast: 12.2% p.a.

Loungers, a UK growth company with high insider ownership, reported robust financial results for the full year ending April 16, 2024. Sales increased to 353.49 million from 283.51 million last year, while net income rose to 9.12 million from 6.93 million. Basic earnings per share improved to 0.086 from 0.067 a year ago. Despite trading at 63.7% below estimated fair value, Loungers' earnings are forecast to grow significantly at 22.8% annually over the next three years, outpacing the broader UK market's growth rate of 13.5%.

AIM:LGRS Ownership Breakdown as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: The Property Franchise Group PLC manages and leases residential real estate properties in the United Kingdom, with a market cap of 282.97 million.

Operations: The company's revenue segments include 1.50 million from Financial Services and 25.78 million from Property Franchising.

Insider Ownership: 13.5%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 44.7% p.a.

Property Franchise Group, a UK growth company with high insider ownership, is forecast to see significant revenue and earnings growth at 44.7% and 36.7% per year respectively, outpacing the broader UK market. Despite trading at 61% below estimated fair value, shareholders faced substantial dilution last year and the dividend track record remains unstable. Recent executive changes include CFO David Raggett's planned retirement by end-2025, ensuring a smooth transition period for leadership continuity.

AIM:TPFG Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Aug 2024

Taking Advantage

Access the full spectrum of 66 Fast Growing UK Companies With High Insider Ownership by clicking on this link.

Invested in any of these stocks? Simplify your portfolio management with Simply Wall St and stay ahead with our alerts for any critical updates on your stocks.

Simply Wall St is your key to unlocking global market trends, a free user-friendly app for forward-thinking investors.

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.The analysis only considers stock directly held by insiders. It does not include indirectly owned stock through other vehicles such as corporate and/or trust entities. All forecast revenue and earnings growth rates quoted are in terms of annualised (per annum) growth rates over 1-3 years.

Companies discussed in this article include AIM:FRAN AIM:LGRS and AIM:TPFG.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  More Americans are suffering from depression, according to a Gallup study conducted in 2023. The study also found that minorities experience depression at twice the rate of white adults. New Mexico Frontiers Chad Brummett spoke with one local company whose mission is to find solutions to this growing health crisis through genomic technology.

Story continues below

Depression is on the rise in the United States. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of Americans suffering from acute and prolonged depression has increased from 21.6% in 2019 to nearly 30% in 2023.

While there are a variety of factors that can cause depression, the most common treatment for the condition is a set of medications known as SSRI, which stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. However, patients know them better as citalopram, Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft.

A typical diagnosis of depression goes something like this. First, you go to your doctor and talk through your symptoms. Then, they come to a diagnosis of depression and prescribe an antidepressant. Then, you have to wait to see if that medication is working. According to Circular Genomics CEO Paul Sargeant, that process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a year.

Theres been so much stigma surrounding depression, and I think thats now lifting. We need better approaches, better, diagnostic tools, and better prognostic tools, said Sargeant.

That is the mission at Circular Genomics. Founded in 2021 by University of New Mexico alum Dr. Nicholas Melius, the company has isolated a particular molecule known as Circular RNA.

Its highly expressed in brain tissue. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is found in the blood. So we can understand whats happening inside the brain from the blood, said Sargeant.

Because Circular RNA can be found in the blood, Circular Genomics has been developing a test that will greatly reduce the wait time to see if the prescribed antidepressant is working in the patient.

The company will be conducting a laboratory-developed test in September called The Mind Light Antidepressant Response Test. If the test is successful, that means they can get their product on the market sooner and potentially help millions of Americans suffering from mental illness. I personally lost a couple of friends through depression. And thats really the motivation to join the company and help the company get this test to market what we really hope to do. The overarching theme for the company is that we want to bring much more precision medicine to the area of mental health and neurology. So, the right drug to the right patient of the right time, said Sargeant.

Sargeant said that if their trials go well this fall, they hope to begin rolling it out to market in 2025.

About New Mexico Frontiers

New Mexico is the doorway to the new frontier  leading the way into the future of Aerospace, Bio-science, Renewable Energy, Digital Media and Film, Advanced Manufacturing, and so much more. Join us as Chad Brummett and New Mexico Frontiers profile the movers and shakers from our state who are changing the world.

New Mexico Frontiers celebrates the enterprising spirit of the states businesses, scientists, creators, and entrepreneurs.

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Three people, two men and one woman, all in suits, speaking outside of the White House

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 03, 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. (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.

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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.

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City of New Bern officials ask community to prepare emergency kits for Debby

NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT)  Members of communities in Craven County are bracing for large amounts of rainfall and flood warnings from Tropical Storm Debby. New Bern leaders shared how theyre guiding the public to safety.

The main concern in New Bern is flooding throughout the town. City officials said the key to weathering any storm is being prepared. That is the mindset they want people to have as Debby moves in.

The city brought in two loads of sand. One is at Henderson Park off Chapman St and the other is at Seth West Parrot Park on Pinetree Drive. Sand is readily available for residents to reinforce flood safety.

New Bern Public Information Officer Colleen Roberts said theyve been keeping a check on conditions.

We usually check the forecast of storms and then determine whether were going to bring in sand for residents to gather sandbags, she said. So we dropped off those two loads yesterday. Folks are taking advantage of them and theyre still available as of right now. The sand will stay there until its depleted.

The City of New Bern is encouraging people to have emergency kits ready in case of power outages, as well as, to fill their gas tanks as soon as possible.

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City councils approve resolutions to allow voters to decide whether to split Alpine School District

Alpine city council members meet to vote on a resolution to create a new school district on the ballot in Alpine on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Six other cities in northern Utah County can also pass resolutions. Currently, the Utah County cities are served by the Alpine School District, which is the largest in the state. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News

Multiple city councils in Utah County met Tuesday to vote whether to ask county officials to place on the general election ballot questions whether to split the Alpine School District and form new, smaller school districts.

Currently, the cities are served by the Alpine School District, which had an enrollment of 84,700 students in fall 2023, the largest statewide.

The cities of Alpine, American Fork, Cedar Hills, Draper, Highland and Lehi each met on Tuesday to consider resolutions requesting that the Utah County clerk place the ballot question on the November ballot.

The proposal contemplates that those five communities and the portion of Draper in Utah County would be served by a new school district, which is temporarily being referred to as the Central School District. If voters approve of the new school district, the future school board will select its name.

Draper Mayor Troy Walker calls for a vote on a resolution during a city council meeting held at the Draper Council Chambers in Draper on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. The resolution, which passed, centered on potentially putting a measure on the ballot that would allow voters to decide whether to create a new school district in the portion of Draper that lies within Utah County. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

The Alpine City Council held a special meeting at noon Tuesday and voted unanimously to approve the resolution that the Utah County Clerk place the issue on the general election ballot.

City Administrator Shane Sorensen, in a brief presentation before the vote, said the city hired a consulting firm that recommended that the proposed Central School District was financially viable.

Their conclusion was, We are of the opinion that the new school district is a viable alternative to the existing school district, he said.

A new, smaller school district would also bring about more local control, more control to meet the needs of students and potential tax savings, he said of the consultants findings.

Alpine city council members with Mayor Carla Merrill meet to vote on a resolution to create a new school district on the ballot in Alpine on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. Six other cities in northern Utah County can also pass resolutions. Currently, the Utah County cities are served by the Alpine School District, which is the largest in the state. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News

Meanwhile, two other city councils in Utah County  Saratoga Springs and Eagle Mountain  considered resolutions on Tuesday whether to ask the Utah County clerk to place on the November ballot a question whether to create a new district in the western portion of the county that would serve Fairfield, Cedar Fort, Saratoga Springs and Eagle Mountain and certain unincorporated areas west of Utah Lake.

The Saratoga Springs council voted unanimously for the resolution.

This spring, several city councils unanimously passed resolutions to potentially create a new school district. The cities have conducted two public hearings each to hear public comment on the proposed new school district leading up to Tuesdays vote to ask that the issue be placed on the general election ballot.

In late May, Alpine School District Superintendent Shane Farnsworth sent a video to all employees announcing his recommendation to keep the district whole.

Alpine School District is a viable, responsive, fiscally well-managed and high-achieving school district, Farnsworth said at the time.

A Florida consulting firm hired by the school district recommended a two-way split.

In June, the Utah Legislature passed HB3003 to clarify the process for splitting a school district.

Rep. Brady Brammer, R-Pleasant Grove, the bills sponsor, said the intent of the legislation was to avoid a messy ballot and a messy outcome if various options to split the district appear on ballots and more than one passes.

The bill, passed during a special session, eliminated the option for a local school board to initiate the process to create a new school district.

If voters approve the ballot questions in November, it would take several months to establish new governance and administrative functions.
KILLEEN, Texas (FOX 44)  The City of Killeen will be commemorating Purple Heart Day with a special ceremony.

The event will take place at 2 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall, located at 101 N College Street. The commemoration ceremony will feature the unveiling of more than a dozen new Purple Heart City signs, as well as a new webpage dedicated to the citys Purple Heart City status.

The city says 2024 marks ten years of Killeen being designated a Purple Heart City. The Military Order of the Purple Heart Special Recognition Award was presented to the city in 2014 by representatives of the CenTex Chapter 1876 Military Order of the Purple Heart. The honor is for the citys dedication, support and honoring of Americas combat wounded veterans.

Guests invited to the commemoration ceremony include local/Centex Purple Heart organizations, veterans organizations, Fort Cavazos representatives, City Council members and City of Killeen staff.

The city says the history of the Purple Heart is one of the most renowned military awards, dating back to 1782 when General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit, which would later become the Purple Heart. The medal is awarded to military personnel wounded or injured in war or by terrorist actions, and signifies the sacrifices made by Americas servicemembers as a symbol of their willingness to sacrifice to protect and defend our nation. The award is also presented posthumously for servicemembers who died as a result of those actions.

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City of San Diegos official flag: what it looks like and its meaning

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  The City of San Diegos flag is a representation of the citys history.

The year 1542, which is on the flag, is when European explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo first entered San Diego Bay and claimed the area for Spain.

San Diegos flag consists of three vertical bars with the colors red, white and gold (from left to right). The flag resembles the red and yellow colors of Spains flag, which was flown over Cabrillos ship, per the city.

In the center of the flag, the official seal of San Diego has a variety of symbols. The city explains the meanings of those found below:

On the shield, the Spanish caravel, a type of ship, represents Spain exploring and colonizing in San Diego. The orange tree symbolizes agriculture, while the wheels with wings stands for manufacturing and transportation.

On the crest, the belfry, a bell tower, represents the mission fathers early settlement.

Iconic San Diego diner serves its last meal

Similar to Spains coat of arms, the pillars of Hercules on each side of the seal are used as supporters to remember the ancient territorial control of Spain.

The compartment shows two dolphins below the shield depicting the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean connected by the Panama Canal.

Last, the Latin motto Semper Vigilans means Always Vigilant.

On Oct. 16, 1934, the San Diego City Council adopted the flag, through Resolution 62173, when Albert V. Mayrhofer submitted a sample banner on behalf of the California Historical Association, Native Sons of the Golden West, Native Daughters of the Golden West and The San Diegans, the city said.

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The City of Sergeant Bluff to host its 49th Pioneer Valley Days

SERGEANT BLUFF, Iowa (KCAU)  The City of Sergeant Bluff will be hosting its 49th annual Pioneer Valley Days!

The two-day event starts on Friday, Aug. 9, with a parade at 6:30 p.m., followed by a 100th celebration of the Segrant Bluff Fire Department with an open house and Ice-Cream Social, and then a drive-in movie starting at 9 p.m.

Siouxlanders come out for National Night Out

On Saturday, Aug 10 the Pioneer Valley Days activities are as follows:

A Color Run at 9 a.m.,

A show and shine car show at Sergeant Bluff Museum from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Adult Bags Tournament starting at 12 p.m.

A Family Fun Day from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. including a petting zoo, pony rides inflatables food trucks, face painting, water Fights, and more

A Horseshoes Tournament at 12 p.m.

Foam Party from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

A Kids Bags Tournament at 2 p.m.

Free Family Swim Night at the Sergeant Bluff pool from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Music at Eddies from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

All events will be held at the Recreation Complex unless listed otherwise. Attendees are encouraged to begin their own coolers and chairs. The City of Sergeant Bluff also reminds attendees no hard alcohol or glass containers are allowed.

For more information, visit the Sergeant Bluff Facebook Page.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  El Paso City employees are one step closer to adding gender-affirming care to their healthcare coverage.

During the July 30 city council meeting, representatives voted seven to one to approve an ordinance allowing the city manager to begin implementing healthcare coverage for gender-affirming care.

District 4 representative Joe Molinar was the sole dissenter. KTSM contacted Molinar to clarify why he voted no, but his office declined to comment.

The World Health Organization defines gender-affirming care as a range of social, psychological, behavioral, and medical interventions that support a persons gender identity when it conflicts with the gender they were assigned at birth.

The City has yet to announce what type of care would be covered by the coverage, but local community organizations say they more-less have a direction.

At the very least, basic care, right? Anything like if you were to have diabetes or hypertension, that basic thing that people would expect to be covered. Thats what were looking for. I think what this is showing El Paso is that people are beginning to understand that this is an intersectionality and that the queer community is integrated within the community, said Amber Perez, executive director at the Borderland Rainbow Center (BRC).

The BRC and Project Vida were both groups that assisted in drafting the ordinance brought forward by District 8 Representative Chris Canales and co-sponsored by District 2 Rep Josh Acevedo and District 3 Rep Cassandra Hernandez.

The topic of gender-affirming care remains a hot-button topic, especially in the state of Texas, after Gov. Greg Abbott banned the specific healthcare for most minors in 2021.

If a person chooses to do that, thats their decision. We as taxpayers should not be paying for that, said Adolpho Telles, former chairman of the El Paso GOP.

Telles said he would like more transparency from the City Council before they approve resolutions like this.

Publicizing and asking for input would have been great if they could also tell us what the cost is to us as taxpayers. I think that would be good. They with regularity pass things that they want, and they dont put in front of us, the taxpayers, the people they work for, said Telles.

The City has yet to report how the new healthcare coverage will be funded.

According to the resolution, by opting into healthcare coverage for gender-affirming care, the City of El Paso will align itself with other progressive cities and showcase its dedication to equity and inclusivity. Canales said this would also benefit El Paso economically.

Canales said during the meeting that adopting the ordinance would help attract and retain talent in Borderland.

These types of things will attract companies to come and build here. If they build here, they bring higher wages and sustainable resources. What we keep are our people here, and we also attract people who are like, hey, you know what? Ive always wanted to live on the border, said Perez, highlighting the potential economic benefits.

The city manager has up to 60 days to research other municipalities with similar healthcare plans and other local government entities before presenting options to the City Council.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  While county leaders are applauding the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix (LVGP) for improved communication compared to year one, small businesses that are awaiting compensation from last years traffic disruptions are making a different kind of noise.

The lack of ability to meet application deadlines for permits needed to hold the 2023 inaugural race was the focus of an after-event report from the Clark County manager. Those communication criticisms have seemingly switched gears per discussion at Tuesdays commissioner meeting.

Weve created several forums to ensure a flow of accurate information, LVGP Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs Lori Nelson-Craft said to commissioners, detailing an upcoming app to disseminate traffic impacts online. We hold monthly stakeholder meetings and thats a group of 600-plus strong.

It looks like were in a much better place this year than we were same time last year, Commissioner William McCurdy II said.

We hope that the changes that have been made will help us in dramatic fashion, Commissioner Jim Gibson said.

Their attention has shifted to year two. LVGP said road patch-up and temporary structure installation will begin immediately after Labor Day, working counterclockwise from Las Vegas Boulevard at Harmon Avenue through the beginning of November.

That work includes installing a controversial bridge on Flamingo Road over Koval Lane that small businesses next to it say contributed to multiple million dollars of revenue lost before, during and after the inaugural race. It was paired with months of repaving that LVGP says will not happen at the same magnitude this year.

Though LVGP says that the bridge will be narrower and shifted to the southern portion of that intersection this year to be less disruptive, the business owners still unaffectionately refer to it as the bridge to bankruptcy and claim County Commissioners and leaders are not holding the necessary conversations to reimburse them.

Our community has F1 PTSD, Tanya Markin, co-owner of Battistas Hole in the Wall and owner of Stage Door Casino said to commissioners Tuesday. You were silent. Youre still silent.

In 2023, our restaurant lost millions in a year we thought would be our best ever, Mimmo Ferraro, co-owner of Ferraros Italian Restaurant said to commissioners Tuesday.

I lost $3.5 million. So, if I only lose $2 million, $2.5, is that okay? Wayne Bohn, owner of Jays Market on Flamingo said to commissioners Tuesday.

Those business owners claim the last conversation had with LVGP was in June, when an NDA was asked to be signed regarding these negotiations.

Renne Wilm, CEO of the LVGP and CLO/CAO of the company that owns Formula One, Liberty Media, acknowledges her organizations shortcomings in the first year and points to efforts to avoid them in year two. She also indicates pushback from the small business owners in coming to a resolution regarding their grievances that saw legal action filed in May.

There was one particular meeting that my team offered that was canceled, and the particular business owner flew to Denver and put signs up outside Liberty Media. Thats not a constructive way, Wilm said to the media after the Tuesday morning meeting. We have a playbook for year two. We know what to expect. We know how to operate and execute this track in this town. Last year we didnt have any of that benefit.

Clark County Public Works Director Denis Cederburg told 8 News Now that both permits needed to begin temporary track installation and close the public roadways during the three days of racing in November have not been approved yet.

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As college dorm rooms open and classroom lights power on, freshmen around the country are stepping into the hallowed halls of higher education for the first time. Their minds are open to learning, and their spirits are receptive to fun new experiences.

However, college also brings the lessons they cant get from textbooks, like how to live on their own for the first time  and, crucially, how to navigate their finances. One of the best steps a guardian can take before sending their kids off to college is giving them a solid foundation in personal finance 101.

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To help you understand the key money lessons your college freshman should know before they head off to school this fall  sparing you (some) tears  GOBankingRates talked to financial experts who have their own curriculum for basic financial literacy.

Earning passive income doesn't need to be difficult. You can start this week.

Intro to Budgeting

If theres one skill that any incoming freshman should have to save their green as they make the grade, its budgeting. Dennis Shirshikov, head of growth at Go Summer, said college students should hit the quad with the ability to create a budget that will help them track their income and expenses, enabling them to live within their means.

He cited the example of a student who uses their grocery budget to prevent overspending and avoids the temptation to use credit cards for their daily expenses.

A useful exercise is to have students list all their monthly expenses, including unexpected ones like social activities, and then compare this against their income, he said. This not only provides a clear picture of their financial situation but also helps in setting realistic spending limits.

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The prevalence of budgeting apps can also make it even easier for young people to start budgeting. According to Melanie Musson, insurance and finance expert, getting kids used to balancing their budgets before they go to school, including relying on these budgeting apps, is an ideal plan of action.

Before kids go to college, they should be used to living on a budget. If they have a job the summer before they leave, its the perfect time to get some practice working with a budget, she said. Budgeting apps allow you to track all your spending, which can be helpful for young adults figuring out how to balance money they have with what they spend.

Story continues

Checking and Savings 101

As students learn to master their budgets, they should also be prepared to manage their checking and savings accounts. Shirshikov said students need to learn that monitoring their account balances regularly will prevent overdraft fees  while also giving them appreciation for the benefits of having a savings account to help cover emergency costs.

He added that getting students in the habit of setting up automatic transfers from checking to savings ensures that theyre consistently saving income, like earnings from a part-time job. This practice not only builds a financial cushion but also instills a habit of saving early on, he added.

Foundations in Social Spending

If theres one thing college is known for  other than the opportunity to broaden the mind, of course  its the chance to socialize with new people. Its easy for young people to get so excited about all the new hang outs that, though your students social calendar is full, their wallet is decidedly not.

As a parent and business owner, Kristin Marquet of Marquet Media, LLC, has thought about the best ways to prepare young people for the independence of college life. She said helping students manage their social spending is essential.

Encourage your kids to allocate a specific amount for social activities each month and stick to it, she added. This helps them enjoy their college experience without falling into the trap of overspending.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 3 Money Lessons Every Freshman Needs Before Starting College
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police are investigating one of their own, 30-year-old Officer Joel Medina, whos charged with sextortion.

On Tuesday, Medina didnt show up in court, and apparently, he wasnt the only one.

These are all written promises, and no one is coming back to court, said Judge Cecilia Oseguera.

PREVIOUS | CMPD officer charged with sextortion, disclosing private images

The judge indicated that there were several cases Tuesday where people didnt show up to court.

The judge asked prosecutors what they wanted to do in Medinas case, and they said to appoint the police officer an attorney and set a new court date for him.

The police report says it started with a message on social media.

A 22-year-old man filed the report on Valentines Day, claiming that Medina tried to get him to pay $10,000.

The victim claims if he didnt pay up that Medina would release sexually explicit photos and videos of the victim to the victims friends and family.

Medina was arrested Monday and is charged with one count of felony extortion and one count of felony disclosure of private images.

From my own perspective, that an officer would engage in this kind of behavior is so disturbing, said Michael Tabman, a former FBI Special Agent in Charge.

Tabman says he hasnt heard of this type of crime involving a police officer charged.

To do something that requires so much predication and premeditated and cruel just personally cruel to somebody else, I have not seen it, which doesnt mean it hasnt happened. Its just that I havent seen it and hopefully I havent seen it because it happens rarely, said Tabman.

According to the FBI, from October 2021 to March 2023, the FBI and Homeland Security investigations received more than 13,000 reports of online financial sextortion of minors. The sextortion involved more than 12,000 victims, primarily boys, and led to at least 20 suicides.

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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings made the following statement about Medinas arrest:.

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.

Medina is on unpaid administrative leave with CMPD.

Hes due back in court on August 27.

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GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX)  Keeping your teeth clean is not always an easy task, but having the help of a dental hygienist can make a difference in the way you smile. But there happens to be a shortage of dental hygienists on the Western Slope.

Brigitte Sundermann, Colorado Mesa Universitys vice president of Technical Education and Workforce Development states, We surveyed over 40 different dental practices, and they needed some evening classes for existing employees. I think out of the 40, we had 29 respondents and every single one of those was, Do it now. Wish you could have done it last year. Like hurry, hurry hurry.

With the demand for the program, the groundwork for the new curriculum is finally underway.

Sundermann explains, I think its always about meeting the community needs to have that many dentists and that many dental hygienists behind us to make this program happen.

The CMU tech program is partnering up with Marillac Health to use the healthcare providers state-of-the-art equipment.

Sundermann says, When youre able to do this through a grant, The Opportunity Now grant to have brand new equipment, to have dedicated CMU Tech classroom space, dedicated CMU Tech offices. Because we were part of the entire design process for that building, thats what partnerships are about.

Kristy Schmidt, Chief Development Officer of Marillac Health explains, Partnering with us, working together, where we can provide that access to our dental rooms, dental equipment, and have a training room for them. To be able to utilize it is a great partnership for us to be able to have together to help them build this program.

As a result of partnering with Marillac, there is an additional bonus when the students are ready to graduate.

When they graduate, theyre going to be going into a dental practice to be able to already be familiar with that and how to utilize everything so its great. Its good for us. Its good for us from a recruitment standpoint, Schmidt said.

The new program is predicted to start the beginning of 2026 and open doors for many more new dental hygienists.

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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO)  The Gulf Coast Amtrak Line has been out of commission since Hurricane Katrina but following a vote on Tuesday, Aug. 7 by the Mobile City Council, a new service is on its way, with funding set for three years.

Amtrak is expected to stretch from New Orleans to Mobile with four stops along the Mississippi Coast in between.

Thats where my granddaughter and in-laws live there, and we always go and visit them and the Megabus stop going there, and we dont even go there anymore right now, so thats going to be good for us, New Orleans resident Charlotte Jaques said.

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Right now, the plan is to have a day and an evening ride from New Orleans to Mobile, as well as two trains heading west from Mobile at the same times.

Each ride will briefly stop at each of the four Mississippi cities as well.

In total, the project is expected to cost around $250 million in state and federal funding.

Youve got ports not only in New Orleans and Mobile but in Pascagoula, Gulfport and Port Bienville, Hancock County, that all will benefit from this because of the fluidity of the freight railroad itself, Southern Rail Commission Chairman Kevin Knox said.

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As of right now, the expectation is for the trains to begin running around spring of 2025.

However, the team working on the project says they have hopes of getting things done quicker.

We have an aspiration to try to start it before the Super Bowl, but we just cant guarantee because we just dont know what were going to run into, Knox said.

Some are now wondering if there is a possibility of the route returning to Jacksonville.

However, it seems that if it is, it is likely very far away from becoming reality.

I think were going to have to prove this service first before we move to that and a lot of movement if there were a movement that way, wed have to work closely with the city of mobile and the port out there obviously and then that would have to be led by the state of Florida, Knox said.

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.

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Four people have been taken into custody and charged in connection with a cockfighting operation in San Bernardino County, federal authorities announced Monday.

The arrests, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Central District of California Office, occurred Sunday at an event being held in Muscoy, a city about six miles north of San Bernardino.

Prosecutors say at the events, which were held on Sundays during cockfighting season, which generally ran from January to August, participants paid $1,000 to enter four roosters into fights, with several fights occurring during the event.

Before the fights, a sharp blade, known as a gaff and usually curved and approximately 1.5 inches in length, was often attached to each roosters leg, the release noted. At times, the fights ended in the death of one or both roosters.

A cockfighting spur is shown on May 11, 2007, in Dili, East Timor. (Dimas Ardian/Getty Images)

In addition to those entering animals into the fights, authorities said that as many as 100 spectators would attend the events.

For $20, attendees would park at a location nearly a mile from the fighting venue and were then shuttled to the cockfighting location, where for another $40 they were allowed to enter the arena area and couple place bets on the fights and participate in a raffle.

The four suspects arrested included:

59-year-old Corona resident Isidro Chaparro Sanchez

61-year-old Rialto resident Luis Octavio

51-year-old San Bernardino resident Sergio Jimenez Maldonado

53-year-old Moreno Valley resident Eva Anilu Pastor Uriostegui

All four of the defendants, as well as another man identified as 56-year-old San Bernardino resident Cirilo Esquivel Alcantar who law enforcement officials are looking for, were charged with aiding, abetting, inducing and willfully causing another person to sponsor and exhibit an animal in an animal fighting venture.

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The four suspects arrested appeared in the United States District Court in Riverside today.

If convicted as charged, the defendants would each face a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is continuing to investigate the case.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Prospective college students looking to further their education have a chance to speak one-on-one with colleges.

On Wednesday, Sept. 25, a free event connecting high school students and parents to colleges will be held at Day Air Ballpark from 6 to 8 p.m. Representatives from over 70 colleges across the nation are expected to be in attendance.

Loading dock partially collapses after storms

Attendees that RSVP online prior to the event are entered to win one of two $1,000 scholarships.

Decisions about higher education are as difficult as they are important, said Bill Burke, president and CEO of Day Air Credit Union. Were proud to be able to provide College Prep Night as a vital resource to local families, helping them make the most informed decision possible.

Students interested in attending should click here to RSVP.

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Collinsville man guilty of sexual assault after child reported him to school social worker

A 48-year-old Collinsville man was convicted Wednesday of sexually assaulting a child between the ages of 9 and 13.

During a bench trial, Markki L. Edmonson, 48, was found guilty on four counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child and one count of criminal sexual assault.

The child was assaulted between Jan. 1, 2016, and Feb. 14, 2018, according to a release from the Madison County States Attorneys office. The child reported the incidents to a school social worker.

In her closing argument, Assistant States Attorney Rebecca Buettner argued that the survivors statements were credible and the defendants were not, according to the press release.

Madison County States Attorney Tom Haine commended the child for their courage in bringing the case to light.

I also commend the investigating agencies, the Madison County Child Advocacy Center, the prosecution team and the victim advocates at the States Attorneys Office for working collaboratively to ensure that this (survivors) voice was heard, he said in the release.

Edmonson still faces sentencing. According to Illinois sentencing guidelines, each count of predatory criminal sexual assault may carry a sentence of between 6 and 60 years in prison. The one count of criminal sexual assault is a class 1 felony, which is punishable for 4 to 15 years.

All of the counts are non-probationable and carry mandatory consecutive sentences, meaning Edmonson faces a minimum 28-year sentence, the press release said.
The Colorado River flows through Ruby and Horsethief canyons area near Mack, June 9, 2023. The railroad is at left. (Photo by 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.

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.

Colorado Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Colorado Newsline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Quentin Young for questions: info@coloradonewsline.com. Follow Colorado Newsline on Facebook and X.
Then-state Rep. Dave Williams, center, now the chair of the Colorado Republican Party, attends the GOP state assembly at the Broadmoor World Arena on April 9, 2022. (Chase Woodruff/Colorado Newsline)

Critics of Colorado Republican Party Chair Dave Williams are free to meet and hold a vote on his removal later this month after a judge lifted a temporary block on the process on Tuesday evening.

In July, Arapahoe County District Court Judge Thomas W. Henderson blocked members from holding a scheduled meeting to oust Williams. On Tuesday, however, he concluded that the matter falls outside his jurisdiction entirely.

The group of Williams critics now plans to meet on Aug. 24 in Brighton.

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The effort is led by El Paso County GOP Vice Chair Todd Watkins and Jefferson County GOP Chair Nancy Pallozzi, who in June announced that they had sufficient signatures from party members to force a vote on the issue and called a meeting. Hendersons temporary restraining order came the day before the scheduled meeting for the vote.

The disputes here at issue  are clearly internal controversies within the jurisdiction of the (Colorado Republican State Central Committee) to make a final determination. As such, in accordance with the above cited law, and as the Bylaws themselves recognize, this Court lacks jurisdiction to decide the questions of whether the (executive committee)s determination that the June 26, 2024 call was invalid and illegal, and in turn  whether any meeting of the CRC is properly called or not, Henderson wrote.

Williams, a far-right former state lawmaker, is facing intense criticism over his ability to lead the party after he used party resources to support primary races across the state, including his own unsuccessful bid in the 5th Congressional District. Various Republicans have also condemned a series of anti-LGBTQ messages sent by Williams and the state party, including an email with the subject line God hates flags and a call on social media to burn all the pride flags this June.

Six of the eight Republican congressional nominees from Colorado, as well as Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen, called on Williams to resign ahead of the blocked July meeting. U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, who is running in the 4th Congressional District, wrote in a Facebook post about a failure from Chairman Williams to lead after our primary election.

Various other county party leaders and state lawmakers have also called for Williams to resign or be removed from his position.

Critics will need support from 60% of the Republican State Central Committees 400-plus members to remove Williams from office.

We are very pleased that the court sided with our obviously sound reasoning. We are even more pleased that the court has correctly decided to let the CRC solve its own problems as we originally intended, Watkins told Colorado Newsline.

An unsigned email to the state partys central committee members on Tuesday night states that a properly called meeting for Aug. 31 is the correct venue for this topic.

The court DID NOT rule on the legality of the dispute contrary to Watkins false assertions. The court is simply unsure if it has jurisdiction to hear the merits of the dispute and is requiring both sides to file briefings about it before the court continues forward, it reads. The State Executive Committee has rendered a decision that Watkins meeting is invalid and illegal. That has not changed, and its determination is still in full force and effect.

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In this podcast, Motley Fool analyst Asit Sharma and host Mary Long talk about abandoned acquisitions, AI, and robotaxis while looking at earnings reports from Alphabet and Tesla.

Then, Motley Fool contributor Matt Frankel and host Ricky Mulvey check in on Boston Omaha, a holding company that recently lost half of its CEO team.

To catch full episodes of all The Motley Fool's free podcasts, check out our podcast center. To get started investing, check out our quick-start guide to investing in stocks. A full transcript follows the video.

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Mary Long: We're between two waves. You're listening to Motley Fool Money. I'm Mary Long, joined today by Asit Sharma. Asit, lovely as always, to have you here.

Asit Sharma: Great to be here, Mary.

Mary Long: We're going to get to earnings from two big names in just a minute. But first, one of those big names is Alphabet, and they faced a pretty public rejection yesterday, so I wanted to hit that before we dove in. Last week, the company had made a $23 billion offer for Wiz, which is a Cloud security start-up. That offer was nearly double Wiz's current valuation. But yesterday, Wiz walked away. Turns out they would rather be alone than couple up with old Google. So my first question for you on this fine Wednesday morning, what's Wiz got that Alphabet wants?

Asit Sharma: Well, number 1, Mary, they've got a cool name. It's the other end of the Alphabet. It's a lot more appealing than Alphabet Wiz. It reminds me of the movie, the Wiz. Other than that, they also have a cyber security piece. That would play well with Google Cloud Services. If you're on Google's network, then you might as well buy into security services. Amazon Web Services does this Azure has its own cyber security piece. This would have been a nice little tuck, and I say little just because Alphabet's balance sheet is so big tuck in acquisition. But, for Wiz, when they examined the deal, even though the money piece was good. Just the threat of antitrust coming in, the regulators saying, this isn't going to work. You get tied up for a year or two years. Just look at Figma experience with Adobe. That might not have been worth it for them. I think also they got a little bit of encouragement from seeing the stumble that CrowdStrike had last week and said, let's head for an IPO and make some money there. This might be an opportune time for us.

Story continues

Mary Long: You mentioned that Wiz acquisition that would have strengthened Google Cloud business. But per yesterday's earnings, that segment seemed to be doing just fine on its own. Nearly 30% increase in revenue for Google Cloud segment. So they raked in about $10.4 billion good amount of cash, but that still pales next to AWS and Azure, which each did more than $25 billion in revenue in the first quarter of this year. Seeing that the Wiz acquisition is off the table now, what does success look like for Google Cloud?

Asit Sharma: I think that success looks like quality over quantity for Google Cloud. Sure, their business is much smaller than their two biggest rivals. But what they're thinking through is the cost of all this acquisition of server equipment of GPUs in order to serve up artificial intelligence over the Cloud. For them, it's not some arms race to just catch up in terms of revenue. At the end of the day, the customer is going to want to get the highest ROI on a Cloud spend that's infused with AI. You're going to have to convince the customer that they can get a better experience, faster inference for cheaper with you. You do that by investing smartly, not just trying to build the biggest infrastructure you can. Alphabet executives talked a little bit about this on the call, the fact that their CAPEX spend is a lot bigger. It's 50% more than it was this time last year, but they don't see this indefinite march to never ending CAPEX. What they want to do is to build the correct system. They've got an edge here, Mary, because they have a lot of in house AI expertise. Really, they had a much more robust generative AI offering than OpenAI did. It's just OpenAI went public first and the Arms started. I think it does look like more about profitability than than anything else.

Mary Long: Cloud is not Alphabet's largest business segment. What did investors learn about Google's ad business from this call?

Asit Sharma: I think the ad business is surprisingly strong. Google Search is a big digital advertising driver for Alphabet, and that was extremely healthy. It's a huge chunk of their business. YouTube, which also looked healthy actually showed a little bit of deceleration, so ad revenue from YouTube. I wondered about that because the Trade Desk Jeff Green has been saying for a long time that at the end of the day, advertisers want to spend on quality content, long form content. They think that there are more people that will buy their products if they place Ads in like, connected TV venues versus short form video. He's been tagging YouTube as a short-form video. Place for a long time. For most of us, it's the opposite of that. We've gone to YouTube for learning about things. If I need to change something under my sink, I'm going to go to YouTube. Well, really, I'm going to call a plumber because my previous results have been disastrous. But we're seeing this younger demographic flood into YouTube, and they're all into that short form content that feels very much like other social media TikTok Instagram, you name it. I think that degrades the advertising ROI for some advertisers. I'm really curious to follow YouTube search revenue for the next I don't know year or so, see what happens there.

Mary Long: Now, when you mentioned CAPEX spend and how that has just increased so much as Google invests in AI. I'm seeing something interesting here. On the one hand, you have like this massive AI spend. Then the search results, you mentioned that there's a lot to celebrate there, but something else to note is that while search revenue rose 14% for the quarter, Google network revenue was down from last year. That network revenue includes the banner Ads that you see on websites. The roll out of Gemini, an AI product, means that you visit fewer of those websites that pay for these banner Ads. Google spending all this money on AI, but at the same time, it's eating its own tail. Do you think that that cost is worth it? If so, where does Alphabet go from here? What's next? Ads in AI search results?

Asit Sharma: It's such a great question. My dog knowledge is very small, but name me a dog that has a short tail. Poodle maybe.

Mary Long: Do Poodles have? No.

Asit Sharma: I don't know. I think we're both showing our dog ignorance here. Hopefully we'll get some angry letters from some dog lovers. I'm a dog lover, but let's put it this way. The tail is short. What I mean by that? If you look at this whole business, the Google Search plus YouTube Ads business was $50 billion this quarter Mary. Google network was about $8 billion. Google network is a third party network. It's the banner Ads you mentioned, whereas the Ads that we see in and around Google Search, that's the monster part of this business. We see Alphabet experimenting a lot with ad placement around Google Search. Ads above the little AI summaries Ads below. It really hasn't hurt their business, if anything, it's enhanced it. I think what they're saying is, we'll sacrifice a little bit of that network revenue for third parties because it's so much smaller. We're willing to go there if we can keep growing this other piece and not just be totally taken out of our own game by generative AI.

Mary Long: We've got Ricky writing in live to share some short tailed dog options with us. Wiener Dog, Boston terrier Pug. Which of those do you think Google most closely resembles?

Asit Sharma: Boston terrier pug in this analogy.

Mary Long: You mentioned the Trade Desk and Jeff Green earlier. As you think about the future of AI as it pertains to Google, what are the ripple effects for other ad companies there? The Trade Desk is down almost 9% this morning. PubMatic, I think, is down about three.

Asit Sharma: These companies have had a decent run. PubMatic had gone down to 14 bucks a share, and it's gradually come back, The Trade Desk has been having a pretty decent year. So we're seeing a confluence today of a few things. First of all, the market's very soft because big tech earnings, this is one of them, we're decent, but maybe not powerful enough to keep pushing this market to all time highs. You've got that bit of weakness there. Then there's a little bit of the softness in the YouTube revenue that I was talking about that I think folks are extrapolating. Now, for The Trade Desk and PubMatic long term, those companies are pretty well positioned for this future in which Chrome, are you ever really going to deprecate in which those cookies go away this deadline gets keeps getting pushed back and back. Some short term noise here, nothing substantial for the future of the really strong competitors, as you mentioned, The Trade Desk, PubMatic, Magnet, etc.

Mary Long: Speaking of deadlines that keep getting pushed back. Waymo just removed its wait list in San Francisco and it's getting another $5 billion from Alphabet, its search engine sugar daddy. GM just said it was indefinitely delaying its self-driving shuttle. This is when the delays come in. The Tesla Robotaxi launch also got delayed a couple of months. It was going to be in August, now it's set for October. When it comes to self driving, and we'll talk more about Tesla's ambitions here in a second. But is Waymo the leader in this space?

Asit Sharma: Right now they are the de facto leader. They have the biggest fleet that's operating now, that's in full mode. You can hail those Waymo taxis in several ZIP codes. The other thing is that Alphabet has been funding this, as you call it I think such a great term as a sugar daddy for a long time. It's one of their bets that they have stuck with. There's others that they've just peeled off from. Maybe they see that this as a sunk cost. They really want to preserve their previous investment, because it's so big in scale, they're willing to support it. Right now there is no other competitor. We've seen other companies pull back. De Facto leader in this space are now, Waymo, yes. I know you've got a very interesting question about another type of business that is poised to compete with Waymo in the future, maybe.

Mary Long: I promised two big names that we're reporting earnings up at the top. That other big name is Tesla, and it's self driving ambitions and the theme of autonomy. We're certainly a focus of yesterday's earning call. It's a big piece of that autonomy wave that they advertise as coming next in Tesla's future is Robotaxis. There's lots of talk about this yesterday. I don't doubt that Robotaxis and like the cyber cab network that's often been promised. I don't doubt that that's a cool concept. But I'm curious about the bull business case for it because I look at Uber and their market cap is about $141 billion. Musk has teased that this driverless taxi business could propel Tesla, which currently has a market cap of about 785 billion to a market value of $5 trillion. Walk me through this Asit. Help me understand how Robotaxis help Tesla grow by over 500%.

Asit Sharma: Mary, I don't understand it either. I cannot walk you through the bull case. I'll say a few things here though. I think for me, this is a 12 quarter exercise because first of all, this isn't really a product that's widely available on the market. It has to go through regulatory review. We have to see how strong the demand is. We have to have a number of business quarters to see if the Robotaxis have some unfortunate accidents which crimp their market potential. We have to understand how the insurance industry is going to underwrite this thing. There's so many unanswered questions, there's really no sense in making some $5 trillion business case by anyone except Elon Musk. He's an innovator and a showman in equal parts. It's typical Elon, there's nothing new there. I will say in general, the business case will rest on the efficiency of the artificial intelligence, the fact that without human drivers, the cost of such a service is greatly reduced versus a fleet service like in Uber, where you have human drivers. I do think this nexus of technology, low maintenance of the vehicles, the artificial intelligence could be a decent margin business if it gets to scale, but you need a lot of scale. Right now, there's really no immediate data that anyone has that could project with any reasonable certainty, this $5 trillion case. Let's skip that for now. Is my suggestion. Let's put a date on the calendar 2-3 years from now because that's 8-12 business quarters, and we'll talk when there are some numbers on the table. I'm not panning this service at all. I'm just saying that this feels very Elon Musk to me and it's a wait and see.

Mary Long: Apart from Robotaxis, was there anything else on this call that really stuck out to you?

Asit Sharma: For me, the continued emphasis on AI is big, but more important to Tesla investors for the immediate future is the sort of quasi-promise that a cheaper vehicle is coming. This is really what Tesla, the automobile manufacturer needs to do. There are some amazing vehicles being put out by BYD and China. Now, they won't hit our market anytime soon because of tariffs, but it shows you where this industry is going. It runs toward lower cost affordability. Hybrid models, give that to consumers today who want to buy from a number of manufacturers. I think Tesla is really lacked in some ways. Now, they will make arguments that their entry level models, when you figure in all consumer credits are low cost of ownership vehicles, which they are. But to get a price tag that entices the average consumer. That's something I feel like Tesla should have done sooner. I was happy to see that at least they still have that in their sites.

Mary Long: If you buy a management story, Tesla is currently sitting between two waves. The first wave was the launch of the Model 3, the Model Y, and this next wave is all about autonomy and this next-generation vehicle platform. We already hit on the Robotaxis and part of the autonomy piece of this, but I want to dive a bit more into what else this next wave might look like. Musk said that Tesla is going to double down on Dojo, which is Tesla's supercomputer, and he wants it to be competitive with Nvidia. What does it cost to build a supercomputer Asit?

Asit Sharma: The cost these days to build a viable supercomputer. If we're talking about the very latest, they start up around $1 billion because that's what it takes to string together several Blackwell complexes, Blackwell being Nvidia's most advanced super computing complex. At the scale Musk is talking about, you're talking about several billions just to play, that's the cost of playing here, especially for the needs he has between his humanoid robots, full self driving, other types of training he's doing on his model. I think what was maybe more to his point in the call was that they have to compete alongside Nvidia. Basically, they're buying Nvidia GPUs. They cost a lot, but they have so much already invested in this GPU complex, they have to keep buying. That was the subtext of what he was saying. What really about building a computer that would be competitive with the supercomputers that Nvidia can build. Nvidia built its own supercomputers, because that's the test case to sell it to enterprise businesses and hyperscalers. I think what Musk was really saying is we're in bed with Nvidia. We love their product. It's great. It's helping us, but we can't stop purchasing this, and we've got to now finish this project, else we've lost a lot of money. I was a really subtle threat that I was sort of surprised to hear running through there.

Mary Long: We've got cars, we've got Robotaxis. We've got supercomputers. Where do humanoids fit into all this?

Asit Sharma: Funny thing is when we saw the first humanoid robots on stage when they were unveiled by Tesla's models, that is, they seemed really clunky. But I was intrigued because they're always taking data from their own movements, and that's being fed back into Tesla's neural networks. I think from the sound of it, we're probably I'm going to guess three years away. What I heard last yesterday was that Tesla's going to take the humanoid robots and test them in their own environment. Because that's how they can really get better. That sounds to me, again, typical Musk speak for. It's at least another couple of years out. I think they'll run into just some more development issues. But within three years, maybe we see them commercially available. I could be wrong. It could be faster, but that's what I heard between the lines yesterday.

Mary Long: Asit, that's about all the time that we've got for today, but thank you so much for the time for hanging out with me this morning and for filling us in on what's going on over at Alphabet and at Tesla.

Asit Sharma: It's a lot of fun, Mary. Thanks so much.

Ricky Mulvey: Ricky Mulvey with Motley Fool Money here to tell you about the Range Rover Sport, the vehicle that's dynamic by design. It's got advanced technologies like cabin air purification, which offers new levels of comfort and refinement. The Range Rover Sport also has active noise cancellation, allowing you to filter out unwanted road noise. I can tell you from taking a test drive that the stereo systems are great. Its award-winning Piv Pro is at the heart of the experience and provides intuitive control of the vehicle systems. Out at the dealership in Littleton, Colorado, my guy Agi taught me how to use the Piv Pro in less than 10 minutes. But it's not just the intuitive technology making it a great drive, the purposeful cockpit-like driving position sets the tone for a focused interior that promotes exhilarating driver engagement. You'll feel the power as soon as you hit the accelerator. The Range Rover Sport is redefining sporting luxury. I'd like to invite you to build your Range Rover Sport at landroverusa.com.

Mary Long: We just talked about two companies that have a lot to say to their investors. Up next, we look at one that's a whole lot quieter. My colleague, Ricky Mulvey checks in with Fool contributor Matt Frankel about Boston Omaha, a holding company in billboards, broadband, and asset management, with a lot of new questions.

Ricky Mulvey: When you were on for the A segment a couple of days ago, I wanted to chat with you about Boston Omaha, which is an asset holding company where there's been a lot of change. I would say now one of the more controversial stocks in the fool universe, and one I know that you follow very closely, spoke with Jason Hall about this fairly close to when one of its co-CEOs, Alex Rozek left But now I know that you're in a very different place with your relationship with the company, your thesis on the company has changed. Originally, this was an asset manager, owned a lot of billboards, building out some broadband, and you were betting on the CEO's ability to be capital allocators. How has the thesis changed since then with Boston Omaha for its stockholders?

Matt Frankel: Well, it's not just Alex Rozek leaving. If you're not familiar, he was the one who was Warren Buffett's grand nephew. If you ever heard of compare to the Baby Berkshire, which I never really loved that comparison, but he was the reason for that. In a way, I'll start with the positive, 'cause I always like to say something positive about any situation. The net positive is that I like the one CEO model. I wish they would have done it years ago. Any time you have two CEOs, you have to have two people agree on anything to get it done. Not to mention, not just that, you have two CEO salaries, two CEO bonus structures. With one, it's a net positive for the business and getting things done and things like that. That's what I'll lead with the positive. The reason the thesis busted has nothing to do with Alex Rozek leaving. It's because the most exciting parts of the business are arguably gone now with the exception of maybe Sky Harbor, which they own 20-something percent of Sky Harbor right now. But that's a publicly traded company. If I want to invest in that, I'll just buy this. It's like saying I'm buying Berkshire Hathaway just for Apple. Why not just buy Apple in that case?

Ricky Mulvey: Sky Harbor real quick. That's essentially, they have airport hangars where people park private jets.

Matt Frankel: It's a fancy airport hangers. They took the company public during the SPAC boom and it was actually one of the more successful SPACs that was done during that era. Very great business, great economics, and good execution so far. That's the most exciting part of the business right now. The billboards, broadband and insurance are the focus going forward. Now sole CEO Adam Peterson has made that clear that he sees the best opportunities in just compounding those three businesses. Whether you like those or not, they do have great economics, they're not particularly exciting. The company's insurance and broadband investments specifically haven't really done anything to impress me yet. That's really the problem with those. The big thesis buster is the Boston Omaha asset management business. They had some big plans, and it was really exciting the story they were selling their investors. The first one was raising outside capital to start a built for rent real estate business. The idea was they would invest a little money, but they would raise third party capital, and if they were able to deliver returns for their investors, they would get a percentage of the returns. Like a baby Brookfield or one of the big asset managers or something like that. I like that because if these investments go well, it's an unlimited ability to generate capital without putting up a whole lot of their own. They were not able to raise pretty much any money for that.They went so far as to say, we're going to spin this off into a real estate investment trust when it when it reaches scale, and we see a $400 million opportunity to raise for broadband infrastructure. They weren't able to raise any capital and have since said they're winding down that business. It was a whole lot of investor money down the toilet and building that part out. I'm trying not to be too salty about it. But, they spent a lot of money hiring people to run it.

Ricky Mulvey: I understand because this is a company that as of this recording I own shares of, it's a company that I know that you are heavily invested in, so it's OK to be a little salty when leaders say, we're going to do something and then that doesn't necessarily pan out. Are you excited at all about what remains with the insurance billboards and broadband business?

Matt Frankel: Sort of. It's not just that they couldn't execute on their plans. That happens all the time. Especially during tough economic conditions, you really can't fault companies for not being able to execute. Their communication was just terrible. They started the built for rent fund, I think two years ago, maybe even more. When they said they're shutting down the asset management business, and this year's annual letter was the first we're hearing there's an issue. That's really the big problem. The only reason I'm really excited about owning the shares right now is when I do a back of the napkin, like some of the parts valuation, I can't make a case that it should be a $13 stock. I just can't. I think it has some embedded upside in the business. It's the market's total lack of faith in the management. Understandably so that it's trading for what it is. My most exciting thing right now is it's a value business right now.

Ricky Mulvey: We were talking earlier. You said that, in my opinion, I was like the thesis changed when one of the CEOs left. You said the thesis changed two years ago, though. What happened two years ago?

Matt Frankel: Well, two years ago was when they separated Boston Omaha asset management as the fourth business segment when they decided they were going to raise outside capital. Essentially said, everything's fine every time they were asked about it. It's everything's progressing. We're happy with how things are going, things like that. That's really when the thesis changed because before two years ago, as you correctly pointed out before we recorded, they were a billboards broadband and insurance business. Now they're that again. They didn't have a SPAC before Sky Harbor started. They had a small asset management business, but they didn't have a third party capital business or anything like that. It's like they changed the thesis, made it a much more exciting story. Investors bought it and rewarded the stock for it. I think it shot up to about $50 at one point. Now the thesis is it's come full circle, with one fewer CEO.

Ricky Mulvey: The communication challenges for Boston Omaha continue to roll on, I would say. They are having an investor day in Omaha. However, there's no remote streaming for it. It's only going on in person. This is something that I find myself unhappy about because I would like to be able to hear about what's going on without buying a plane ticket to Omaha. But is this unusual? Does it signal anything to you?

Matt Frankel: It's not unusual, but they normally time it around Berkshire weekend, so people are in Omaha anyway. To be fair, they've done this before. Originally, this year's meeting was supposed to just be streaming and not in person at all. Then a lot of shareholders pushed back and said, wait a second, we like having our annual meeting in person every year. It's one thing we look forward to so they said fine. But we didn't mean instead of the streaming option, we meant in addition to. Still do the streaming, but have some people in the room if they want to be. You don't need to get rid of the streaming entirely. I'm hoping they'll reconsider Adam Peterson, his credit. I spoke with him on the phone a couple of weeks ago. He said improving communication is going to be a big priority has gone forward. He wants to do quarterly investor decks, which they never had. I wouldn't be surprised if he says, let's stream the meeting. Because we don't want the 99% of investors who are not going to fly to Omaha, that we don't want them to feel like they're being left in the dark.

Ricky Mulvey: I hope they do that. At this point with Boston Omaha as we look forward. What questions do you have?

Matt Frankel: I want to see what Adam Peterson does over the next couple of quarters. If I had to put the two co-CEOs in baskets. I'd say he is the capital allocator, the one who wants to compound businesses and things like that. Alex Rozek is the entrepreneur. He wants to go into a new business line. He wants to see what they can do and build for rent housing. He wants to explore all these different avenues. Adam Peterson's more the compounder, and so I think the right CEO remained. So I'm willing to give him a few quarters to see some progress, but I want to see some progress if I'm going to stay invested in the company.

Ricky Mulvey: Who's his great uncle, though? Anyway. Matt Frankel. Appreciate you being here. Thanks for your time and insight.

Mary Long: As always, people on the program may have interest in the stocks they talk about, and the Motley Fool may have formal recommendations for or against so don't buy or sell stocks based solely on what you hear. I'm Mary Long. Thanks for listening. We'll see you tomorrow.

John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Asit Sharma has positions in Adobe, Amazon, and PubMatic. Mary Long has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Matt Frankel has positions in Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway, Boston Omaha, Brookfield Asset Management, and General Motors. Ricky Mulvey has positions in Boston Omaha and The Trade Desk. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Adobe, Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Berkshire Hathaway, Boston Omaha, Brookfield Asset Management, PubMatic, Tesla, The Trade Desk, and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool recommends General Motors and recommends the following options: long January 2025 $25 calls on General Motors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Abandoned Acquisitions, AI, and Robotaxis...Big Things in the World of Stocks was originally published by The Motley Fool
This Colorado suburb ranked among the safest in the US

DENVER (KDVR)  Picking a place to live, raise a family and grow your career can be a daunting task, and safety is a top factor in choosing that neighborhood.

The concept of safety can be measured by rates of violent crime, property crime, motor vehicle deaths, drug overdose deaths and excessive drinking, among others. SmartAsset, a personal finance website, looked at 360 U.S. suburbs and ranked them from most to least safe based on those five measures.

There are thousands of suburbs in the United States that homebuyers can choose from, but SmartAsset looked at 360 neighborhoods within a 15 to 45-minute drive from the 100 largest U.S. cities.

Study: Colorado one of the least safe states in US

Six Colorado cities made the list, but only one suburb was ranked among the top 50.

Colorado suburbs among the safest in the US in 2024

No. 47  Castle Rock

No. 160  Broomfield

No. 224  Woodland Park

No. 287  Fountain

No. 315  Golden

No. 336  Lakewood

Only two suburbs made the top 50% of the safest cities. Castle Rock fared well in all the categories as the 47th safest suburb in the U.S.

Broomfield made it in the top half of the list, but it had one of the worst percentages of adults who engaged in excessive drinking. According to the data, 22.2% of adults engaged in excessive drinking, ranking 12th. On the other hand, the city had among the lowest motor vehicle deaths per 100,000 residents with an average of 4.31.

What will fall look like in Colorado? Farmers Almanac gives prediction

Coming in toward the bottom of the list was Lakewood.

Per the data, Lakewood struggled with property crime and the percentage of adults who engaged in excessive drinking. For property crime, Lakewood had the eighth highest rate, and for excessive drinking, it had the 11th highest at 23.1%.

SmartAssets full list and methodology can be found here.

If you are looking to move outside the Centennial State, your best options for the safest suburbs are in the Mountain West, Midwest and East Coast.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Columbus police released information about a man they believe is responsible for a fatal stabbing of another man outside an East Side home where they had been staying.

Juan Bautista, 29, is charged with murder in connection with the Aug. 1 stabbing death of 25-year-old Julian Medina-Alvarez. Bautista remains at large.

Columbus police said Medina-Alvarez and Bautista were staying at a home on the 600 block of South Napoleon Avenue on the city's East Side. Columbus police got a call around 12:10 p.m. about the incident.

Police said a witness saw Bautista stab Medina-Alvarez, who was able to escape and run to neighboring homes for help. He collapsed and paramedics took him to Ohio State University East hospital where he died.

Bautista was last seen running away from the house. Police believe he may be employed as a painter or construction worker.

What sparked the altercation between the two men has not been made public.

Anyone with information on Bautista's whereabouts is asked to call detectives at 614-645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS. All calls to Crime Stoppers are anonymous.

bbruner@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Victim identified, suspect at-large in fatal East Side stabbing
Columbus police on Wednesday released footage from four body cameras showing the barricade situation Aug. 1 that ended with a man who had mental health issues fatally shot and three SWAT officers stabbed.

Benjamin Wheeler, 40, died after being shot around 9:45 p.m. on Aug. 1 inside a home on the 800 block of Cherryberry Drive after stabbing multiple officers.

Benjamin Wheeler, 40, stands at the doorway of his parents' home on the 800 block of Cherryberry Drive on Aug. 1 while talking to Columbus police officers called to the home because his stepfather said Wheeler had been threatening him. Wheeler later barricaded himself inside the home. When SWAT officers responded and eventually broke down the front door to get inside, Wheeler stabbed multiple SWAT officers before police fired gunshots and a stun gun at him. He fled to the basement, where he was eventually shot to death when he refused to come out.

Around 4:25 p.m. that day, Wheeler's stepfather called 911 to report Wheeler was "irate" inside the house. In the background, Wheeler can be heard telling dispatchers to check his military record.

Wheelers stepfather also told dispatchers that Wheeler had been to three psychiatric hospitals and had been diagnosed as having an anxiety disorder, being Bipolar and was "psychotic."

About 15 minutes later, the first Columbus police officer arrived at the home on Cherryberry Drive, as shown in the video. That officer first spoke with Wheeler's mother and stepfather, who told him that Wheeler was "psychotic" and had not taken his medication for 16 months. The stepfather said Wheeler threatened him.

A short time later, a shirtless Wheeler came to the door and greeted officers, saying that "martial law has been declared." In response to questions, he told police that he and the stepfather had a verbal but not physical disagreement because his stepfather wanted him to come inside and shut the front door. He told officers that he was not armed.

Throughout the interaction, Wheeler made several bizarre statements, such as "I own the whole (expletive) Mickey Mouse" and telling officers that he "speaks Dubai." He also told officers that he was in the military and worked as a sniper, and when asked with what branch, he said, "No branch." He walked outside and pointed to what he said were bullet holes in the walls of the home and said there are shootings in the neighborhood every night, video shows.

When asked again why he and his dad were arguing, he simply said "exhausted" and didn't elaborate.

After about five minutes of speaking with the officers, Wheeler mentions having weapons in his room. "I am armed. I will defend myself," he said on video.

The officer asked Wheeler whether he had a gun, and he replied, "I may have."

The officer told Wheeler to tell him whether or not he had a gun so that everyone could be safe, at which point Wheeler went back into the house and refused requests to come back outside. The officer, as well as additional officers who began responding to the scene, tried to communicate with Wheeler using the loudspeaker on a cruiser, Columbus police said, with no communication.

Columbus police sent a SWAT team to the home around 6 p.m., more than an hour after the first officer arrived. Patrol officers and SWAT negotiators continued trying to contact Wheeler until about 7:35 p.m., Columbus police said.

A Columbus SWAT officer then goes toward the front door of the Cherryberry Drive home, police said, radioing to other officers that a firearm was visible. Shortly after that radio transmission, police said Wheeler shoved a knife through the home's front door that hit the SWAT officer in the arm.

That officer was taken to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, Downtown.

After that officer was hurt, police said additional efforts were made to contact Wheeler and resolve the situation peacefully, but to no avail.

At 9:20 p.m., a group of SWAT officers forced their way into the home while Wheeler threw furniture and other items from the kitchen, video shows. Officers used stun guns several times on Wheeler with no success, and Wheeler managed to disable a drone officers deployed by hitting it with a Christmas wreath.

As the SWAT team advanced from the living room toward the kitchen, Wheeler popped out with a knife and stabbed one of the officers in the left leg, video shows. Another SWAT officer said he suffered stab wounds, though that is not shown in the video.

A SWAT team officer tried to use a stun gun to subdue Wheeler but the video appears to show that he miss. At about the same time as the stun gun was deployed, another officer fired five rounds at Wheeler but missed, body camera video shows.

A SWAT officer attempts to use a stun gun to subdue Benjamin Wheeler. Wheeler, 40, was shot and killed Thursday night after a barricade with SWAT officers.

Wheeler ran into the basement, and a separate body camera shows the officers as they moved forward. They continued calling Wheeler's name and demanded that he come out of the basement and surrender. As the SWAT team looked around the house, one of the officers picked up a rifle.

The final video from inside of the home does not show SWAT officers firing the shots that killed Wheeler.

In addition to releasing body camera footage and additional information about the incident Wednesday, Columbus police also provided statistics about how frequently the SWAT team responds.

To date, Columbus police SWAT teams have been involved in more than 470 encounters in 2024, 13 of which have been hostage or barricade situations.

bbruner@gannett.com

smeighan@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Video released of Columbus police shooting, killing knife-wielding man
Column: Can Antonio Villaraigosa charm his way into becoming California governor?

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa greets participants at a rally in support of Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign at the Proud Bird Event Center on July 26 in Los Angeles. He has declared his candidacy for the 2026 California gubernatorial race. (Carlin Stiehl / For the Times)

For the record:

4:37 p.m. Aug. 8, 2024: A previous version of this article identified California Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond as state education secretary.



You dont interview Antonio Villaraigosa so much as you turn on an audio recorder, sit back and watch a show unfold.

The anecdotes rushing out of his mind like the Los Angeles River after a storm. The answers interrupted by the genuine greeting he throws to the inevitable lookie-loos who glance at the former mayor of Los Angeles and speaker of the Assembly. His ringing, carefree laugh mixed with soaring rhetoric about democracy, working families and hope.

To see Villaraigosa in action is to watch a true political master at work, someone who loves the journey as much as the destination. And Californians will get a front-row seat for the next two years.

Thirty years after winning his first election, the Eastside native is back in the political saddle again, this time out of the gate early in the 2026 race for California governor. Villaraigosa is trying to distinguish himself from the other major Democrats who have announced so far  Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, California Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, former state controller Betty Yee and state Sen. Toni Atkins  by running from the radical center, which he has long described as a magical place where everyone comes together to fix the Golden State better than the Right or Left can do on their own.

Read more: Former L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announces another run for California governor

In a world where there's so much deadlock, Villaraigosa said halfway through our one-hour lunch at La Parrilla in Boyle Heights last week, its radical to put strategies together to break the deadlock and move ahead.

There are few deadlocks in Sacramento, where Democrats have a supermajority in both chambers of the Legislature and a Republican hasnt held statewide elected office in over a decade. Villaraigosa seems to be banking on his main opponents running as wokosos in a state where Democratic voters are complaining about crime, homelessness, the cost of living and massive inequities while not trusting the status quo to solve anything.

When I started out, let's be honest  I wasn't as much of a practical problem solver, he said. But over time, you realize if you want to get things done and you want to do big things, you got to work with people, including people that don't agree with you.

La Parrilla, a longtime favorite for Eastside politicians, was my request. I wanted a place with great food where I could see him in action in his political homeland. That happened the moment he walked in and every single diner stopped what they were doing.

Como estas, jefe! he proclaimed to server Erick Gabriel.

Como esta, Mr. Garcetti! the 29-year-old Boyle Heights resident cracked.

Pegandole duro, Villaraigosa replied, his voice a tad hoarse after a day working the phones that netted him over $1.5 million. Hitting it hard.

Server Ana Boror came over to hug him.

You used to have parties here all the time, she kidded him in Spanish. You came here often.

But I now live far away, Villaraigosa pleaded, like a Chicano Dennis the Menace.

Former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa talks to reporters during a news conference at the construction site of a new water desalination plant in Antioch, Calif., in 2022, as part of his duties as Gov. Gavin Newsom's infrastructure advisor. (Godofredo A. Vasquez / Associated Press)

He asked about the photo of him that used to be near the entrance. I spotted it right above his head in our corner booth: he was deciding between beef and chicken fajitas during a staff party for his historic 2005 mayoral victory.

I asked how todays Villaraigosa was different from that Villaraigosa.

You mature over time, he said. You're a little humbler. You lose a few times, and you learn humility. But I'd rather talk about what's the same.

He proceeded to uncork a lifetimes worth of Eastside memories in five minutes as we enjoyed our appetizer of macaroni soup.

Its a place of people who are salt of the earth, he concluded, moving on to guacamole that he spiked with La Parrillas salsa de chile de arbol. And, you know, kind of like, Local boy [made] good,' you know? To a lot of the residents.

He stopped to watch a La Parrilla worker pour a giant jug of Jamaica into a percolator.

With caution! he advised loudly in Spanish. Wow! Not a single drop spilled!

Read more: 2026 California lieutenant governor race begins to take shape

His phone emitted a symphony of sounds  drum beats, lasers, chimes  representing different people trying to reach him. Villaraigosa ignored them all as he explained what motivated him to run again for governor after finishing third in 2018: the people he met traveling the state in 2022 as Gov. Gavin Newsoms infrastructure czar.

What exactly did they tell him? I asked as our main course came  three tacos for him, a taco de queso panela for me.

Can we eat this a little bit first, and then Ill start talking?

Guess so!

For the next 10 minutes, we caught up on each others lives. He stopped eating to banter with more La Parrilla staff, eventually posing for a photo with Gabriel.

So, what exactly did the people say, who were asking him to run?

You know, I never asked.

Villaraigosa figured it was his record in Sacramento and Los Angeles, working across the proverbial political aisle to get things done.

Do you think Californians want that, though?

Well, they obviously didn't want it last time! Villaraigosa chortled. But I think people are ready for it.

Then-mayoral candidate Antonio Villaraigosa, center, and then-Assemblywoman and now-Mayor Karen Bass, left, during an endorsement celebration at his South Los Angeles headquarters in 2005. (Stefano Paltera / For The Times)

The main campaign planks swung left and right  strengthening Medi-Cal ("Health care is a right") while also making California friendlier for small businesses (You could be pro-worker and pro-business. I was. I don't think these are contradictions). Building more housing by streamlining permitting, while doubling down on public transit.

I'm from Boyle Heights, so I know a little Yiddish, OK? Villaraigosa said at one point. I'm a schlepper.

He recounted getting a phone call from his deputy mayor for economic development about a guy who wanted to open an operations center in the San Fernando Valley.

He's really pissed off because it's taken so long, Villaraigosa recalled the deputy mayor telling him. Said, 'You want to call him?' I didn't know who he was.

It was Elon Musk.

And so I called him up, and he's very upset. Said too much bureaucracy and red tape in the city. I told him to slow down  Tell me what the problem is. He told me. We got it done in three months.

"That's your job when you're mayor, Villaraigosa continued. And that's your job when youre governor. I think you're going to see a guy who's going to run  .

He pointed to the photo of him on the wall.

You know, you said, What's the same?' I'm still that guy that rolls up my sleeves. I wanted to get to a goal last night. I worked all the way into the evening to do it. Thats the way I am.

Read more: Antonio Villaraigosa's goals for L.A. and beyond

A server brought over a cup of hot water with honey on the side for Villaraigosa, as I posed my final question. He will be 73 in 2026, making him the oldest first-term governor in California history if elected. Did that concern him?

His million-dollar smile flashed.

Honestly, the only people who have asked that question are reporters. It's funny, one of them compared me to Joe Biden. And I started laughing."

Yet another ringtone buzzed from Villaraigosa's phone.

"This campaign is going to be about the future. It's going to be about the high cost of an education for young people. It's going to be about the high cost of housing for young people."

He leaned directly into my phone, which had been lying on the table between us while recording our conversation.

I was in the gym this morning at 4:50 in the morning. I'm in the gym six days a week. I hike, I work out, I eat well, I'm ready for this campaign.

He soon got up and offered a fist bump.

You're the best, bro. I got to go.

Villaraigosa threw down cash to cover his share of our lunch and headed out the door. Hi, how are you? I heard as he walked out.

A minute later, my phone rang. He had gotten a parking ticket.

I was going back to my car, and the parking guy was printing it out," he said with a laugh. "He realized who I was and began to apologize  Im so sorry, Im a big fan. I wish I didnt have to do this, but I have to."

Villaraigosa laughed again. I told him, Youre doing your job, dont worry about it. Gimme the ticket, its on me."

He let a beat pass, then laughed one more time. Sixty-three bucks! Sixty. Three. Bucks. Well talk later, bro.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
SENATOBIA, Miss. (WJTV)  Northwest Mississippi Community College (NWMCC) will soon host a world-renowned comedian on its campus.

Jeff Foxworthy is classified as one of the most respected and successful comics in the United States. He has sold the most comedy records in history and is a multiple Grammy Award nominee. Foxworthy is best known for his series, You might be a redneck if. NWMCC will host Foxworthy on August 23 in its Heindl Center for the Performing Arts, about 180 miles north of Jackson.

Jackson leaders focus on reopening Thalia Mara Hall

The comedian is also the best-selling author of more than 26 books and a member of the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. Blake Bostick, director of the Heindl Center, is ecstatic about having Foxworthy grace the stage.

Widely known for his redneck jokes, his act goes well beyond that to explore the humor in everyday family interactions and human nature, Bostick said.

Jeff Foxworthy flyer (Courtesy: Andrew Dale, NWMCC)

That night, Tammy Pescatelli will also open the show and appear as a guest comedian. Self-described as a verbal assassin, she has appeared on The View, Guys Grocery Games, the Howard Stern Show and more.

The show will start at 7:30 p.m. and tickets range from $85 to $105 online. Roughly half of the seats are still available as of publication. For those who miss the show in Senatobia, Foxworthys next show is 1,800 miles away at the Eastern Idaho State Fair on September 5.

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The House Oversight and Accountability Committee launched a probe Tuesday into Vice President Harriss efforts on the border, asking an agency largely outside her portfolio to turn over documents about her work on immigration.

In sending the request, committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) is seeking to elevate an issue Republicans hope will help them at the polls in November.

Harris was tapped by President Biden to manage the administrations root causes strategy, an initiative aimed at investing heavily in development and democracy building throughout Latin America in the hopes of curbing immigration flows to the U.S.

Comers request asks U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to turn over any of its correspondence with Harriss office. CBP is tasked with managing day-to-day operations at the border but has little role in addressing broader immigration goals in the region.

Some of the agencies most involved in the root causes strategy are the State Department, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the U.S. trade representative in addition to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While the State Department and USAID have numerous resources on the strategy referenced on its websites, the CBP website does not contain a single reference to the program.

In his letter to CBP, Comer said its unclear what actions, if any, Vice President Harris has taken to fix the border crisis.

He asks for all documents and communication with Harriss office related to the southwest border or illegal immigration.

Though CBP plays little role in carrying out the root causes strategy, it does process migrants who arrive at the border and has vetted migrants from another initiative of the Biden administration that allows temporary entrance of citizens of Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela and Nicaragua if theyve secured a U.S. based sponsor.

Comers office did not respond to a request for comment about why the committee sought information from CBP rather than other agencies connected with Harriss portfolio.

But his letter notes her work on the strategy in addition to referring to her as a border czar  a term also used in the early days of the administration for Roberta Jacobson, who was officially the special assistant to the president and coordinator for the Southwest border.

Vice President Harris focused on the purported root causes of irregular migration from Central America. Central to Vice President Harriss root causes initiative is an effort to provide $4 billion to the region over four years. Vice President Harris has traveled to Central Americato Mexico and Guatemala in 2021 and to Honduras in 2022more than she has traveled to our own southern border, Comer wrote.

Comers letter is the latest effort by GOP lawmakers on the border, coming a day after House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) released his own report reviewing how the Biden-Harris administration has handled migrants on the terror watch list.

Democrats have fought Republican efforts to blame them for the border, noting that the GOP tanked a bipartisan immigration deal after it came under criticism from former President Trump.

Biden in June implemented a policy restricting asylum and movement at the border, resulting in a drop in border crossings seen as comparable to Trump-era levels.

In June, the Border Patrol recorded 83,536 encounters between ports of entry, the lowest number since January 2021, and below the number of encounters between ports of entry in June 2019, the last comparable year prior to the pandemic, DHS said 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.
Community Foundation grants help Muscatine groups

Organizations that work with residents in Muscatine County just received grants worth over $235,000 for their programming.

The Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine has awarded over $235,000 in grants to support local charitable programs and projects through the Impact and Racial Justice Granting Programs. The grants are geared towards a variety of initiatives, including education, human services, culture, health and racial justice. The Community Foundations competitive grant programs are supported by the County Endowment Regranting Program and funds established by donors to support specific charitable causes.

(Muscatine Community Foundation)

Individual funds that are financing the grants include:

Hilda E. Collitz for the Homeless Fund

George G. Millett Memorial Fund

Joe W. and Betty L. Rauch Memorial Endowment Fund

Mary Jo & Richard H. Stanley Human Conditions Support Fund

West Liberty Community Endowment Fund

Racial Justice Fund.

Organizations that received grants include:

Aligned Impact Muscatine County  $21,091 for the Course to College Muscatine County Program, Kindergarten Readiness, and the Summer Melt Mentoring Program. (Mary Jo & Richard H. Stanley Human Conditions Support Fund, Racial Justice Fund, and County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

Crossroads, Inc.  $28,500 for Senior Resources Outreach Program, Senior Resources Meals on Wheels, and the Muscatine Senior Center. (Mary Jo & Richard H. Stanley Human Conditions Support Fund, George G. Millet Memorial Fund, and County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Co.  $1,250 for North Meets South, a community celebration highlighting Halloween and Day of the Dead. (West Liberty Community Endowment Fund)

EveryChild  $8,500 for the Mississippi Valley Child Protection Center. (County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

Family Resources, Inc.  $20,000 for clinical mental health services and services for survivors of sexual and domestic abuse. (County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

Flickinger Learning Center  $18,500 for building use expansion, programming, and The Bridge, a new teen program. (County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

Iowa Jobs for Americas Graduates (iJAG) Inc.  $10,000 for equipping future-ready students. (Joe W. and Betty L. Rauch Memorial Endowment Fund and County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

Junior Achievement of the Heartland  $8,500 for core mission programs in Muscatine County (County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

LULAC Council 317 Columbus Junction  $21,505 for the food pantry and the continuation of the Columbus Junction Community Advocate position and program. (Racial Justice Fund)

Lutheran Services in Iowa  $4,250 for early childhood home visitation services. (County Endowment Regranting Program)

Muscatine Center for Social Action (MCSA)  $38,500 for the Food Service Program, Emergency Overnight Shelters, Domestic Violence Shelter, and the Homeless Prevention Program. (Mary Jo & Richard H. Stanley Human Conditions Support Fund, Hilda E. Collitz for the Homeless Fund, and County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

Muscatine Community School District  $6,520 for Viva Muscatine, a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. (Racial Justice Fund)

Muscatine Community YMCA  $4,977 for Big Brothers Big Sisters to support 45 Bigs in 45 Days. (County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

River Bend Food Bank  $10,000 to support residents of Muscatine County who lack reliable access to food. (Mary Jo & Richard H. Stanley Human Conditions Support Fund)

The Diversity Service Center of Iowa  $20,173.86 for the Educational Outreach Program and the Minority Senior Citizens Program (County Endowment Re-granting Program and Racial Justice Fund)

Vision to Learn  $8,500 for increasing vision care access to students in West Liberty. (County Endowment Re-Granting Program)

West Liberty Heritage Foundation  $1,250 for the Beers and St. John Inn Museum restoration project. (West Liberty Community Endowment Fund)

West Liberty High School  $1,800 to provide staff with translation devices to break language barriers within the classroom. (West Liberty Community Endowment Fund)

West Liberty LULAC  $2,009 to help immigrant community members complete the steps needed to obtain United States citizenship. (Racial Justice Fund)

We are thrilled to support these organizations and their vital work in our communities, said Rebecca Harden-Jones, Programs Manager. These grants will make a significant impact helping to address critical needs and enhancing the quality of life for residents in our area.

All Community Foundation competitive grant applications are reviewed by a volunteer community granting committee and scored on the same criteria. Grants are allocated by the average score of each application until the available funding is expended. Click here for more information on Community Foundation grants.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
As Vice President Kamala Harris and her newly picked running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, hit the campaign trail this week with rallies in several battleground states, Ohio Sen. JD Vance is holding his own rallies in those same states  but striking very different messages.

Harris-Walz lay out campaign promises, double down on calling Trump-Vance weird

In their first rally as running mates, Harris and Walz laid out what CNN analysts called the policy appeal she will make to voters in November: Harris promised to pass a nationwide abortion law, to protect and expand voting rights, and to fight for reasonable gun safety laws.

Harris emphasized Walzs record as Minnesota governor, applauding him for being the first governor in the U.S. to sign a law that made abortion a right with no restrictions and for providing meals to all public school students.

He refused to let students go hungry, she said, according to The Associated Press. So, he made school breakfast and lunch free for every child.

Walz, meanwhile, doubled down on calling Trump and Vance weird.

Trump and Vance are creepy and yes, theyre weird as hell, Walz said. I cant wait to debate the guy.

Harris and Walz followed up Tuesdays rally with rallies in other battleground states, including Michigan and Wisconsin on Wednesday.

Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, speaks at a campaign event at Wollard International, Aug. 7, 2024, in Eau Claire, Wis. | Alex Brandon

Vance attacks Harris border policies, Walzs military service

Vances campaign schedule matches Harris and Walzs, with Trumps VP pick holding his own rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, followed by rallies in Michigan and Wisconsin the next day.

While Harris touted Walzs credentials in their rally Tuesday night, Vance downplayed the role of the vice president.

Last week, Trump said the vice presidential nominees have virtually no impact on the results of the election.

Its all about the presidential pick, Trump said, per Newsweek. Historically, the choice of the vice president makes no difference. Youre voting for the president.

When asked about Trumps comments Wednesday, Vance agreed that voters make their choices based off of the top of the ticket, The Associated Press reported.

What the president has said, and I agree with him, is that most people are voting at the top of the ticket, Vance said, before questioning Walzs record in Minnesota. Now, Tim Waltz is a crazy radical, of course. He allowed rioters to burn down Minneapolis, but most people are going to be voting for Kamala Harris or for Donald Trump.

While Vance focused much of his rally in Michigan Wednesday attacking Harris immigration policies, he also questioned Walzs military service.

You know what really bothers me about Tim Walz as a Marine who served his country in uniform? When the United States Marine Corps  when the United States of America  asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it. I did what they asked me to do it, and I did it honorably, and Im very proud of that service, Vance said, per the Hill.

When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? he said. He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him.

Walzs left the Minnesota National Guard after 24 years to run for Congress in 2006, shortly before his unit deployed to Iraq, as Newsweek reported.
Sir Iain Livingstone, left, head of the criminal investigation into 'Stakeknife', and Chief Constable Jon Boutcher - Liam McBurney/PA

The head of the criminal investigation into the activities of Stakeknife, the man thought to have been the Armys top agent inside the IRA, has said he is concerned over the late disclosure by MI5 of material which could contain new leads.

It has emerged that MI5 handed over previously undisclosed material around the activities of the agent in April and July, eight years after the inquiry began.

Operation Kenova, a major investigation into his activities, published its interim report in April.

It found more lives were probably lost than saved by the actions of the agent but did not lead to any prosecutions.

Freddie Scappaticci, who died last year aged 77, is widely believed to have been Stakeknife.

It comes after court cases pertaining to Northern Irelands troubled past under the terms of the previous governments Legacy Bill were discontinued.

Some 32 people, including former police, ex-military personnel and people linked with the IRA, were considered for prosecution on a range of charges from murder and abduction to misconduct in public office and perjury as a result of the Kenova investigation.

Freddie Scappaticci, the man named by media 20 years ago as the Army's top undercover agent within the IRA

The Public Prosecution Service in Northern Ireland found there was insufficient evidence to pursue any cases.

Sir Iain Livingstone, a senior police officer who chaired the investigation, has written to Hilary Benn, the Northern Ireland Secretary, raising his concern at the late disclosure of material he said may include new investigative leads.

An initial assessment suggests the files contain significant new material which appears to point to new investigative leads not previously known, he added.

MI5 came across the two files in the process of digitising its historical records, The Times reported.

The service informed Kenova immediately upon discovery of the first file when it was found in April this year, the newspaper said.

Sir Iain Livingstone has written to Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn raising his concern over the matter - Jane Barlow/PA

It is of great concern that further material continues to be given to Operation Kenova by MI5 nearly eight years after Operation Kenova commenced; after all the DPPNI determinations in the prosecution reports have been made; following the publication of the Operation Kenova Interim report; and a matter of weeks before the introduction of the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023, he said.

He said he has asked for all of it to be analysed and checked for information that could have helped the inquiry in its work.

Importantly, the material does not indicate further murders of individuals that involved the agent Stakeknife and as such no further deaths would fall into the Operation Kenova Terms of Reference based on the now disclosed material, he said.

However, the material does appear to cast doubt on some of the documents and witness evidence obtained by Kenova and some statements made in the Interim Report.

This includes information provided by the security service around the dates when they became aware of the agent Stakeknife.

The chief constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland has said it is unacceptable that MI5 is providing material to the Operation Kenova investigation so long after all documents were requested.

Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said: It is unacceptable that MI5 continue to provide material to the Operation Kenova Team so long after they undertook to have given full access to Kenova of all the material they held about the agent Stakeknife.

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Homicide suspect Maxwell Anderson told a friend he planned to kill college student Sade Robinson and dismember her body in early March, nearly a month before Robinson went missing and was later reported dead, according to search warrants unsealed this week

The friend told investigators Anderson walked them through the basement of his home and unveiled, step by step, how he intended to commit the crime, according to the warrants, which were unsealed and made public about 90 days after Anderson was arrested in Robinson's death.

Sade Carleena Robinson

Milwaukee police Detective Ryan Bergemann spoke with the friend, identified in the documents as a confidential informant who has known Anderson for two or three years, on April 15. That is nearly two weeks after the first remains of Robinson, 19, were discovered on April 2.

The warrant states the informant went to Anderson's South 39th Street home on the night of March 5. During the encounter, Anderson took the informant into the basement.

In one room, there was a card table and a TV. The other room was covered in plastic painter tarp with a sanitation sink and three saws visible, according to the informant.

"The (informant) stated that the tarp was taped to the floor and the ceiling, covering the walls and the floor," the document reads.

According to the warrant, the informant told investigators Anderson stated he intended to kill Robinson, a Milwaukee Area Technical College student whom he had recently met.

"The (informant) states that Anderson told them he intended on bringing Robinson to his residence, pulling a handgun on her, and bringing her down to the basement of the residence," the document reads. "He then planned on shooting Robinson and then dismember her body in the room that they were in."

Anderson then planned on disposing of Robinson's body throughout the city, the warrant said.

A photo of Sade Robinson is seen at a memorial where friends and family, along with other community members, left various items such as poster, flowers, and stuffed animals at a memorial set up at Pizza Shuttle, Sade Robinson worked at Pizza Shuttle on Milwaukee's east side for three years, on Friday April 19, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

A search of Anderson's home was conducted April 4, centered on the living area and second floor. After speaking with the informant, investigators conducted another search  one that focused on the basement  on April 17.

During the second search, plumbing from the sanitary tub and laundry, and cushions from a leather couch were examined. Investigators also took swabs of stains that were discovered on the couch cushions and collected debris from a clay sewer pipe underneath the concrete basement slab.

Anderson, 33, is charged with first-degree intentional homicide, mutilation of a corpse and arson in Robinson's death.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charge and has been unable to post the $5 million bond for his release from the Milwaukee County jail since his April 4 arrest.

Anderson is scheduled to be in court Sept. 13 for a motion and final pretrial hearing. Trial has been set for Dec. 9.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Informant says Maxwell Anderson had plan in place month before Robinson's death
 Flash

Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in Kafr Kila, Lebanon, on Aug. 6, 2024. [Photo/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.
Namibia-based critical raw materials producer Andrada Minings subsidiary, Uis Tin Mining Company (UTMC), has signed funding agreements totalling N$175m ($9.54m) with Bank Windhoek (BWL).

These new agreements will immediately replace UTMC's existing banking facilities.

Andrada Mining has finalised a N$100m term loan deal with BWL.

The main conditions of the loan include a six-year duration and its designation as senior secured debt, holding the same priority as other comparable debt.

BWL will refinance Andrada's working capital facilities, which total N$50m.

BWL will also offer short-term loan facilities amounting to N$15m to support cash flow for upcoming VAT payments.

The company noted that the short-term loan will be available for 12 months and will be subject to the Prime Rate, and will be repaid to the bank once refunds are received from the Namibia Revenue Agency.

BWL has agreed to provide AfriTin Mining (Namibia) with a N$10m guarantee to the Namibia Power Corporation.

This guarantee, which secures a deposit for the right to receive electrical power, will incur a minor fee payable every six months.

The funds will be mainly used to retire existing debt, support growth efforts and meet working capital needs.

The funding has been completed after meeting all conditions precedent, which included securing the required consents and documentation.

Andrada Mining CEO Anthony Viljoen said: We are proud to have finalised a significant funding agreement for a mining company by Bank Windhoek. This partnership underscores our commitment to Namibia and its thriving mining industry.

The funds will be instrumental in accelerating our exploration efforts, enhancing our production capabilities and creating new job opportunities for Namibians.

We are confident that this investment will not only benefit UTMC but also contribute to the overall economic development of the country.

"Andrada Mining secures funding from Bank Windhoek in Namibia" was originally created and published by Mining 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.
DAKAR, Senegal (AP)  Congos President Felix Tshisekedi accused former leader Joseph Kabila of backing a U.S.-sanctioned coalition of rebel groups during an interview with a private radio station on Tuesday.

Joseph Kabila boycotted the election and is preparing an insurrection because he is the AFC, Tshisekedi said, referring to the Alliance Fleuve Congo, a political-military movement launched in December with the aim of uniting armed groups, political parties and civil society against Congos government. He did not provide any evidence to support his claim.

Tshisekedi's accusation follows the U.S. announcement of sanctions against the AFC last month. Washington accused the alliance of seeking to overthrow Congo's government and fueling conflict in the east of the country. It said the main member of the alliance, the renowned rebel group M23, is already under U.S. sanctions.

Tshisekedi, along with U.S. and U.N. experts, accuse neighboring Rwanda of giving military backing to M23. Rwanda denies the claim, but in February it effectively admitted that it has troops and missile systems in eastern Congo to safeguard its security, pointing to a buildup of Congolese forces near the border.

Congo and Rwanda last week agreed to a cease-fire that began on Sunday following talks mediated by Angola.

Eastern Congo has struggled with armed violence as more than 120 groups fight for power, land and valuable mineral resources, while others try to defend their communities. Some armed groups have been accused of mass killings.

The violence concentrated in the eastern North Kivu province has resulted not just in arbitrary killings but also in sexual abuses. More than one in 10 women living in displaced people camps in the region reported being raped between November 2023 and April 2024, said Doctors without Borders, or MSF, in a report released Tuesday.

In three of the camps where we work, we treated more than 1,700 survivors of sexual violence in April. In 70% of cases, these acts of violence are committed by weapons carriers, said Laura Garel, a communications advisor at MSF.

____

Follow APs Africa coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/africa
Congressman LaHood speaks to the community about efforts to get funding for Rockford

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO)  Illinois Congressman Darin LaHood spoke at the Rockford Kiwanis Club Tuesday afternoon.

He highlighted how he is trying to secure more federal funding for the Rockford region.

Currently, around $900,000 is heading to Rockford Police and the Winnebago County Sheriffs Office to buy Technology for their active shooter program.

LaHood also provided an update on legislation being drafted in Washington.

I think this is the most important election in my lifetime, consequential in terms of the direction that our country goes, said LaHood. I think its important that we have policies in place that bring back this economy, stop the unmitigated disaster at the southern border and get back to protecting America.

LaHood gave his opinion on Vice President Harriss running mate pick calling Walz a liberal, radical Governor.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  A man from Connecticut was arrested on Sunday for allegedly trafficking over 10 grams of fentanyl in West Springfield.

Connecticut Building at The Big E to get first renovations since the 1990s

According to the West Springfield Police Department, on Sunday at approximately 6:00 p.m., officers arrested 47-year-old Renaul Lee Horsler of Niantic, Connecticut near the West Side Inn on Riverdale Street.

This comes after a week-long investigation and surveillance, and he was reported to have had over 1,000 bags of fentanyl marked Superman on him when he was arrested.

He was arrested and is now facing a felony drug charge.

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.
This story was produced as part of the NEW (Northeast Wisconsin) News Lab, a consortium of six news outlets covering northeastern Wisconsin.

Wisconsin voters will soon decide whether to give the Legislature more power to choose how federal funding is spent. Some warn the decision could have consequences for the child care industry.

Currently, state statute allows the governor to accept and allocate federal funds that the state receives in certain circumstances, while other cases require legislative approval of some sort. The Aug. 13 primary ballot will carry two referendum questions that ask whether Wisconsins state Constitution should be amended to shift such power away from the governor.

The questions stem from Gov. Tony Evers having sole discretion over how to spend more than $3.7 billion of the $5.7 billion the state received in federal pandemic relief funding. The proposed amendments are the latest in a series of Republican lawmakers attempts to change the way future federal funds are allocated. The amendments, they say, will ensure no one person will have too much power over how federal funds are spent.

However, some are raising concerns that the proposed amendments would instead concentrate too much control over federal funds in the Legislature. Brown County Democratic Party Chair Christy Welch, who is running for Wisconsin's 88th Assembly District, called the amendments a "GOP power grab" at a press conference that urged people to vote "no" on the referendum questions.

But amendment authors note that that the same rules would be in place no matter what party controls the Legislature.

I often hear from residents that you need to work together in Madison. Well, that is exactly the goal of the referendum questions," said Rep. Robert Wittke, R-Racine, who co-authored the amendments. "This is not a partisan issue, but a matter of good governance. It's working together, not exclusively with one individual (deciding)."

More: What to know about constitutional amendment questions going to Wisconsin voters in August

Why would the amendments affect child care?

There are unanswered questions about the amendments  namely, the processes by which the Legislature would allocate the federal funds in question  that make it difficult to pinpoint the effects the amendments would have.

Whats not in question is that the amendments would affect how the governor could use federal funding for child care, said Jason Stein, president of the Wisconsin Policy Forum, which published an analysis of the ballot questions.

Within the past few years, much of the support that Wisconsin has directed to child care has been via federal funding  specifically using pandemic relief funds.

How have federal funds been allocated to child care recently, and how would this have been different under the proposed changes?

Federal pandemic relief funds used for child care were funneled to Wisconsin via two main pathways.

The first was through existing federal block grants, which have more flexible requirements and can be used for broader purposes than most other federal grants. The Legislature's Joint Committee on Finance must approve the allocation and spending of these funds.

The second method was through discretionary funding that the governor could direct without legislative approval, a power Evers  or any governor  would no longer have should the proposed amendments go through.

Child Care Counts, which directs stabilization payments to child care providers, is one of the most well-known child care supports born out of the pandemic. Since its inception, it has relied on both pathways, explained Britt Cudaback, communications director for Evers' office.

The program was set to run out of money by January 2024 as federal pandemic relief waned and Republicans declined to devote state dollars to the cause. That is, until Evers used his statutory power in fall 2023 to allocate $170 million in federal pandemic-related emergency funding to extend its life through June 30, 2025.

Why are some concerned the proposed amendments would blow back on child care?

Opponents of the amendments argue that requiring the governor to gain legislative approval before allocating federal funds could slow getting help to those who need it.

This could be particularly critical in the case of crises  such as the pandemic, natural disasters and economic recessions. It could also affect the spending of federal funds in general, not just those related to emergencies.

Corrine Hendrickson cleans a snack table on Thursday, January 25, 2024 in New Glarus, Wis. Her program is a home based family childcare center called Corrine's Little Explorers. Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

Some opponents of the amendments say that, if Evers did not have the authority to funnel $170 million into extending Child Care Counts and the funding were to cease completely, an estimated 2,000 child care programs could have closed.

Corrine Hendrickson, a New Glarus child care provider and co-founder of the advocacy organization Wisconsin Early Childhood Action Needed, said the $170 million did not fix all of the industry's problems and that more investment is needed, but it did keep many programs from closing. It also allowed them to maintain the pay raises they gave with previous rounds of Child Care Counts, she said.

Christina Thor, a Green Bay mom who advocates for what she sees as a family-friendly policy, questions whether the child care industry would see any meaningful help should the referendums pass.

Its giving more power to the Republicans who may not see (child care) as an investment in the workforce, Thor said. Historically speaking, and also from recent experience in leading and supporting care bills, especially child care and paid leave, they were not on board.

Thor cited the Republican-controlled Legislature's refusal to put Child Care Counts in the state budget and its quick adjournment of a special session called by Evers that was to be largely about child care issues.

The states 2023-25 biennial budget set aside $15 million to help child care providers; Cudaback said the fact that the GOP-controlled Joint Finance Committee did not release those funds per Evers request shows it is not interested in funding child care and that it cannot act quickly.

Republicans favored a different approach to addressing problems in the child care industry, arguing that grants will not solve the underlying issues within the industry. They introduced several different proposals they hoped would be more sustainable, including changing regulations, opening more child care slots and creating a loan program. Few of their proposals made it to the governor's desk, and even fewer were signed.

Republicans did, however, bring about some changes to help families pay for care. During the state budget process, the Legislature allocated millions in federal funding to expand Wisconsin Shares, the states child care subsidy program. Republican lawmakers also put forth a bipartisan plan to expand a state tax credit for care expenses, which Evers later signed into law.

Related: New Wisconsin child care survey: Child care costs rise, while providers are underpaid

More: More Wisconsinites will see help with child care costs starting in July. Meet the dad who led the change.

How are amendments' authors responding to these concerns?

Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green, (left) and Rep. Robert Wittke, R-Racine.

A common argument against the amendments is that requiring the Legislature's involvement could delay getting federal funds out the door. But, Wittke said, improvements in transportation and communication mean the Legislature can now gather more quickly than it could back in the 1930s, when the law giving the governor discretion to distribute federal money was enacted.

Involving the Legislature will better serve constituents, Wittke argued.

The Legislature is the closest to the people, and it is their responsibility, under the Constitution, to hold the power of the purse, Wittke said. The taxpayers of Wisconsin should have a say in how their tax dollars are spent.

Wittke also said that in non-crisis situations in which an influx of relief funding flows into the state, most of the federal funding Wisconsin receives for child care is via federal block grants that require legislative signoff. Wittke said this process of dispersal would remain even if the amendments are approved.

Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green, who co-authored the amendments with Wittke, did not respond to a request for comment.

Madison Lammert covers child care and early education across Wisconsin as a Report for America corps member based at The Appleton Post-Crescent. To contact her, email mlammert@gannett.com or call 920-993-7108. Please consider supporting journalism that informs our democracy with a tax-deductible gift to Report for America by visiting postcrescent.com/RFA.

This story is part of the NEW (Northeast Wisconsin) News Lab's fifth series, covering issues important to voters in the region. The lab is a local news collaboration in northeastern Wisconsin made up of six news organizations: the Green Bay Press-Gazette, Appleton Post-Crescent, FoxValley365, The Press Times, Wisconsin Public Radio and Wisconsin Watch. The University of Wisconsin-Green Bays Journalism Department is an educational partner. Microsoft is providing financial support to the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation and Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region to fund the initiative. The mission of the lab is to collaborate to identify and fill information gaps to help residents explore ways to improve their communities and lives  and strengthen democracy.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: How might proposed WI constitutional amendments affect child care?
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.
MINEOLA, Long Island  A mask ban has now been passed in Nassau County, and while its supporters say that its meant to prevent anyone engaged in hateful actions or speech from going unidentified, critics say it violates free speech rights and is therefore unconstitutional.

The measure is expected to be signed into law soon but is also anticipated to be legally challenged, not long after.

More Local News

The level of its controversy was on display during the hours-long public hearing on Monday evening, before the legislature voted on the bill.

When the allotted time for a speaker whod opposed the mask ban bill ran out and she kept speaking, the chairman asked police on hand to intervene.

Some people from the gallery tried to get involved, as well, and one of the county legislators also stepped in. The half-dozen or so officers were able to get most people to return to their seats, but they did arrest a woman whod allegedly put her hands on an officer and resisted arrest.

The county legislator whod stepped in at the Monday hearing was Carrie Solages.

On Tuesday, he spoke with PIX11 News about the measure. Just for wearing a mask, you should not have a $1000 fine, he said.

Nassau County lawmakers vote to ban masks in public

Solages had voted against the ban, which passed nonetheless, along party lines  with all 12 Republicans in the county legislature voting in favor, and all seven Democrats, including Solages, not voting no, but abstaining instead.

[Because] we have our own bill that solves the problem without criminalizing a culture, Solages said.

On top of it, he continued, they took no consideration or bipartisanship from the seven Democratic legislators.

The Republican legislator who introduced the bill, Mazi Pilip, said that the measure is by no means oppressive.

We are all about free speech, she said in an interview. You can exercise your rights.

Pilip said that her legislation, called the Mask Transparency Act is meant to prevent people from engaging in hateful actions or speech during political protests.

This is especially for people potentially using the mask to hide their faces, and abusing that right, she said.

At the Nassau County Legislature building on Tuesday, there were still many signs posted calling for people to stay masked. Meanwhile, county residents who spoke with PIX11 News at random said they dont mind the measure.

If you really believe in what youre protesting, and its appropriate, said Katie Dolgow, who was just coming out of a grocery store, you should really be proud of what youre saying and your face should be shown.

Man allegedly writes note asking for $20K in robbery at Bronx bank: NYPD

Chris Chaplin, who wore a surgical mask after coming out of the store, said that both wearing a mask and peaceful protest are protected actions. However, he added, the two dont go hand in hand, in his opinion.

Thats your right. Thats why were here in America, he said, but went on. Show your face if you want to protest, he continued. Why hide it?

The New York Civil Liberties Union came out against the ban. Its Nassau County regional director, Susan Goetherer, said in an interview that the mask ban is oppressive.

People also have a constitutional right to protest with a mask on, she said, even if its to conceal their identity.

Facial concealment, she said, is protected free speech that enables protesters to express themselves and not worry about doxxing, retaliation, any of those things, she said. She referred to doxxing, the practice of people posting personal information online of people with whom they disagree. Protesters in recent years have complained frequently about being doxxing targets.

Goetherer said that efforts to challenge the ban are being looked into.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a supporter of the measure, is expected to sign it into law, possibly as early as next 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 PIX11.
Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks at the opening ceremony of the 14th World Health Summit. Carsten Koall/dpa

The World Health Organization (WHO) will convene an Emergency Committee to discuss an expanding outbreak of a dangerous strain of mpox in Sub-Saharan Africa, Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday.

The Emergency Committee consists of a panel of experts who advise Tedros on whether the WHO should declare a "public health emergency of international concern."

Tedros said the committee will meet "as soon as possible and will be made up of independent experts from a range of relevant disciplines from around the world."

Alarm grew after cases were reported from four countries in Africa that previously had no known cases of mpox: Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda.

There is a risk that mpox will spread further, perhaps even to countries far from the region, said WHO mpox expert Rosamund Lewis.

The WHO stressed that it was not recommending any travel restrictions, but that people need to be informed about the risks and authorities must be vigilant to detect outbreaks at an early stage.

By declaring an emergency, the WHO would be sending a signal to governments to step up their surveillance, keep an eye out for outbreaks and prepare for a possible spread. However, all measures are decided by governments; The WHO has no authority to order countries to take certain actions.

An mpox emergency was already declared by the WHO from July 2022 to May 2023. At that time, there were cases in numerous countries, including in Europe.

However, a new variant emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo around September 2023, named clade 1b. The WHO said it could be more dangerous than previous variants because it spreads more easily from person to person.

Mpox viruses are transmitted through close physical contact. The most noticeable symptom of the disease is blisters and pustules on the skin.
Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks at the opening ceremony of the 14th World Health Summit. Carsten Koall/dpa

The World Health Organization (WHO) will convene an Emergency Committee to discuss an expanding outbreak of a dangerous strain of mpox in Sub-Saharan Africa, Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday.

The Emergency Committee consists of a panel of experts who advise Tedros on whether the WHO should declare a "public health emergency of international concern."

Tedros said the committee will meet "as soon as possible and will be made up of independent experts from a range of relevant disciplines from around the world."

Alarm grew after cases were reported from four countries in Africa that previously had no known cases of mpox: Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda.

There is a risk that mpox will spread further, perhaps even to countries far from the region, said WHO mpox expert Rosamund Lewis.

The WHO stressed that it was not recommending any travel restrictions, but that people need to be informed about the risks and authorities must be vigilant to detect outbreaks at an early stage.

By declaring an emergency, the WHO would be sending a signal to governments to step up their surveillance, keep an eye out for outbreaks and prepare for a possible spread. However, all measures are decided by governments; The WHO has no authority to order countries to take certain actions.

Mpox viruses are transmitted through close physical contact. The most noticeable symptom of the disease is blisters and pustules on the skin.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Kevin Cook is set to go up against Republican Henry McClure to claim the Shawnee County Commission District 2 seat.

Cook beat Robert Soria in the race to see who will represent the Democratic party in the Shawnee County Commission District 2 race. After winning the General Election by 122 votes, Cook will go up against McClure in the General Election in November.

Mays keeps Shawnee County commission seat

For a full list of election results from area races, click here.

For more Capitol Bureau 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.
Key Insights

Atalaya Mining's estimated fair value is UK2.58 based on Dividend Discount Model

Atalaya Mining's UK3.38 share price signals that it might be 31% overvalued

Analyst price target for ATYM is 5.28, which is 104% above our fair value estimate

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Atalaya Mining Plc (LON:ATYM) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.

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 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 Atalaya Mining

What's The Estimated Valuation?

As Atalaya Mining operates in the metals and mining sector, we need to calculate the intrinsic value slightly differently. In this approach dividends per share (DPS) are used, as free cash flow is difficult to estimate and often not reported by analysts. 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. The dividend is expected to grow at an annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 1.9%. We then discount this figure to today's value at a cost of equity of 10%. Relative to the current share price of UK3.4, 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)

= 0.2 / (10%  1.9%)

= UK2.6

dcf

Important Assumptions

Now 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 Atalaya Mining 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 10%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.259. 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 Atalaya Mining

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Metals and Mining market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the British market.

Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio.

Significant insider buying over the past 3 months.

Threat

Paying a dividend but company has no free cash flows.

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Next Steps:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. 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. 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. Can we work out why the company is trading at a premium to intrinsic value? For Atalaya Mining, we've put together three pertinent aspects you should look at:

Risks: Be aware that Atalaya Mining is showing 1 warning sign in our investment analysis , you should know about... Future Earnings: How does ATYM'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 British 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
The dizzying murder mystery of a beloved Detroit neurosurgeon may finally be coming to a close.

Police in Detroit announced Wednesday that they arrested 34-year-old suspect Desmond Burks in connection with the slaying of Devon Hoover, alleging that Burks was in an intimate relationship with Hoover, 53.

The arrest comes 15 months after the initial timeline police promised to make an arrest fell through.

Hoovers death sent shockwaves across Detroits posh Boston-Edison neighborhood where he lived. Police said he was shot in the head twice, and his bodywhich was wearing only a sockwas wrapped in a sheet and crammed into an attic crawl space inside his historic mansion, which was recently listed for $2.5 million.

The City of Detroit photographed the exterior of Devon Hoovers home in 2022 when weighing whether it should approve the installation of a greenhouse. City of Detroit

Hoovers loved ones and neighbors told The Daily Beast last year that his murder was all the more shocking because he was beloved by nearly everyone he encountered. He was known to operate on patients for free if they didnt have the means for surgery and was known in his neighborhood for hosting dinner parties, opera nights, and the occasional wedding.

Detroit prosecutors laid out a clearer picture of Hoovers murder on Wednesday, saying that Burks had sometimes been paid by Hoover for sexual services. After Hoovers murder, authorities said Burks stole about $30,000 and two watches worth more than $6,000 each.

Burks was identified quickly as a person of interest in the investigation after police said they uncovered he and Hoover had over 4,000 communications between each other. Investigating police did not have enough evidence to formally charge Burks until now, however, said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy.

We feel very comfortable, extremely comfortable, at this point in time that we can prove this case beyond a reasonable doubt, she said.

The prosecutor added that the police arrest report totaled 181 pages, with investigators dispatched to five states, England, and France to track down evidence. She said 134 search warrants were executed.

Devon Hoover, left, during a trip to Mexico with friends. Courtesy of Jordan Medeiros

Worthy may have made a point to lay out the scope of the investigation because officials, namely the Detroit Police Department, were criticized heavily for their lack of answers in the case for over a year. Pressure on the department only increased after its chief promised last summer that a suspect would be arrested before the city experienced its first snowfall in the winter of 2023.

Winter came and went without a suspect being charged, however, and loved ones appeared to lose hope in countless Facebook groups that were created after Hoovers death. Those same groups were filled with elation on Wednesday, with multiple people posting Finally in all caps.

Burks has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder, larceny of over $20,000, and more. Worthy said Burks is the same suspect who was arrested on a separate murder charge for killing a man in a road rage incident after Hoovers murder. Burks will be arraigned on charges in Hoovers case on Thursday morning.

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Cori Bush Becomes the Latest Squad Member to Be Voted Out

Rep. Cori Bush, the progressive Missouri congresswoman and Squad member, lost in the Democratic primary in St Louis Tuesday to Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell.

Bell had just over 51 percent of the vote to Bushs 45.6 at the time of call by the Associated Press.

The race saw an influx of cash to Bell from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and the groups super PAC, United Democracy Project (UDP). Together, they spent $9 million to oust Bush, who had called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza weeks after Hamas attacked Israel last October.

One Squad Member Is Holding Out on Endorsing Kamala Harris

Bush, who was first elected in 2020, also voted against a resolution barring Hamas members and others who participated in the attack from entering the United States.

Bushs defeat comes on the heels of Rep. Jamaal Bowmans loss, which also saw AIPAC invest heavily in challenger George Latimer. That contest turned out to be the most expensive primary in U.S. history.

Bush, in addition to opposition from AIPAC, has been facing a Department of Justice investigation into security expenditures, with allegations that she used campaign funds for her husbands protection. Bush has denied wrongdoing, adding in a statement back in January that she was fully cooperating with investigators.

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Cori Bush becomes the second Squad member to lose her primary as shes ousted from Missouri seat

Cori Bush becomes the second Squad member to lose her primary as shes ousted from Missouri seat

Democratic representative Cori Bush became the second member of the Squad to lose her primary as county prosecutor Wesley Bell beat her in a grueling and expensive race on Tuesday night.

Pro-Israel groups spent massive amounts of money to depose Bush in the district where she pulled off an upset victory against a longtime incumbent Democrat back in 2020.

The United Democracy Project, a super PAC of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, spent $9.2m against Bush, according to AdImpact. That made the primary the second-most expensive one of the year after UDP spent millions in opposition to fellow Squad member Representative Jamaal Bowman of New York.

By contrast, Bushs campaign only spent $1.1m and the Justice Democrats, a group that supports left-wing candidates, spent only $2.5m in the district that includes St. Louis.

The massive drive from pro-Israel groups appeared to pay off, with Bell declaring victory on Tuesday night with 51 per cent of the vote to Bushs 46 per cent.

I am committed to serving the St. Louis region in Congress with integrity, transparency, and dedication, he said in a statement. Together, we will tackle the challenges ahead and build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Bush meanwhile vowed that whether Im a congresswoman or not, Im still taking care of my people in a concession speech at her election watch party.

Bush is one a number of Democrats who have advocated for a ceasefire after Hamas launched a surprise attack in Israel on October 7, killing 1,200 people and leading Israel to respond with a military campaign that has killed almost 40,000 people in Gaza.

She and many fellow Democrats boycotted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus joint address to Congress last month. Bush also boycotted Israeli President Isaac Herzogs joint address to Congress prior to the October 7 attack.

But ads from the United Democracy Project did not mention Israel, rather the fact she voted against the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure bill, arguing she was an ineffective legislator who regularly crossed President Joe Biden.

Missouri Democrat Cori Bush lost her primary in Missouri on Tuesday (Getty Images)

Bush did vote against the legislation on the premise that she feared that passing it first without Build Back Better  Democrats proposed social spending bill that they hoped to pass along party lines  would cause the latter to die, which it did when Senator Joe Manchin, who later left the Democratic Party, announced his opposition.

For her part, Bush advertised her support for abortion rights and work with the Biden administration.

Bush, like many of her fellow Squad members, sought a more confrontational style of Democratic politics, calling herself a politivist. In 2021, when an eviction moratorium under the Covid-19 pandemic began, Bush led a sit-in at the Capitol steps, which led the Biden administration to extend it until the Supreme Court killed it.

At the same time, Bush faced lingering questions about the fact she was under investigation by the Justice Department.

Bushs defeat comes after fellow Squad member Jamaal Bowman lost his seat back in June in what marked the most expensive House primary race in history.

Like Bush, Bowman was up against a candidate  George Latimer  who received an unprecedented onslaught of money from pro-Israel groups.

Other members of the Squad have been able to survive their primaries. Representative Summer Lee knocked off a competitor in Pennsylvania earlier this year, while New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez handily disposed of primary challengers.
Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) vowed revenge on a top pro-Israel PAC after she lost the primary in her reelection campaign Tuesday. The group boosted her opponent in a tightly contested race, knocking off a second member of the progressive squad this cycle.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committees (AIPAC) super PAC, United Democracy Project, was a top funder of Bushs opponent, St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell. Bush was harshly criticized for her outspoken criticism of Israels war in Gaza.

Bush said in a fiery speech after her loss that leaving Congress will only takes some strings off.

Because now, there are some strings that I have attached. And as much as I love my job, all they did was radicalize me, and now they should be afraid, she said.

Theyre about to see this other Cori, this other side, she continued. There is nothing that happens in my life that happens in vain. So, this happened because it was meant to happen. And let me say, its because of the work that I need to do.

And let me say this: AIPAC, Im coming to tear your kingdom down! she added to cheers.

The squad member has called the ongoing Gaza war Israels ethnic cleansing campaign, and earlier this year introduced the Ceasefire Now Resolution. Some of her rhetoric has been met with backlash from other congressional members, but also constituents in her own district.

I think [her] comments show a lack of understanding of the nuance and complexities of an issue thats literally hundreds of years in the making, Bell said when he announced his campaign.

According to Sludge, AIPAC helped raise two-thirds of the campaign funding for Bell. The United Democracy Project spent more than $7 million to oust Bush.

Bush is the second squad member to lose a primary this cycle, after Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) was also defeated by an opponent that received significant support from AIPAC. After his loss last month, some progressives sounded the alarm over the groups influence.

I think we need to have a real conversation about the AIPAC, Ocasio-Cortez said after Bowmans defeat.

The group is controversial in some Democratic circles, because it has boosted conservative candidates throughout its history, and some of its funding comes from top GOP donors.

I think that what we do need to have a real conversation about is how a Republican  primarily Republican and largely Republican-financed  organization is playing and dumping money and playing an extremely divisive role in the Democratic Party, said Ocasio-Cortez, who won her primary the same night Bowman lost.

Tuesdays primary result, combined with Bowmans loss, slims the squads roster from nine to seven members of Congress. The groups original four members, elected together in 2018, are expected to remain.

AIPAC has pushed back on the accusation that it is trying to sow discord among Democrats by inserting itself into primaries, telling The Hill earlier this year that it is the largest PAC contributor to Democratic candidates.

Our political action committee supports the Democratic leadership and nearly half of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Black Caucus and Hispanic Caucus, the group said in a statement. In addition, our affiliated super PAC supported a number of Democratic progressive candidates in the last election cycle, who defeated anti-Israel candidates in their primary, won their general election, and are currently serving in Congress. We believe that it is entirely consistent with progressive values to stand with the Jewish state.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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After filing for re-election, Congresswoman Cori Bush speaks to reporters about her campaign (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

Ive always thought that true political talent is rooted in dexterity: the ability to appeal to a wide variety of constituencies without significant internal contradictions.

Every politician starts with his or her base. Sometimes that base is ideological. Other times it is, racial, geographic or generational.

Candidates with dexterity are not only able to expand their base, but in some cases can neutralize or even convert key individuals and groups who once constituted significant obstacles to their career advancement.

Possessing dexterity doesnt mean you lack convictions. It also doesnt mean that you have them.

In my view, it means that you have the ability to frame those convictions differently in different settings; to emphasize certain issues in certain venues; to adopt a demeanor suitable for the group, yet without seeming like a chameleon.

To blend, effortlessly.

Possessing unshakable convictions is often estimable  even more so when those convictions inform policy platforms that create positive real-world impact.

But this column has no pretense of expertise in morality, or in policy evaluation. It only offers political analysis.

-

Two of the nations most polarizing politicians call Missouri home.

U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley was elected in 2018, defeating former Sen. Claire McCaskill in the states most expensive race of all time  including outside spending, it was a $100 million-plus race.

Hawley would go on to gain national notoriety when he became the first senator to announce his intention to formally object to the certification of 2020s electoral college votes, which triggered a debate on the issue in each congressional chamber on Jan. 6, 2021.

The desecration and destruction of our Capitol that day would go down as one of the most disgraceful episodes in American history. And for the first two-year election cycle following that day, Hawley leaned into his role that day, glamorizing his fist-pumping exhortation to those who would sack the building hours later and plastering it on coffee mugs to raise campaign cash.

And when the media outlet that had snapped the picture demanded he stop using the copyrighted image hed purloined, he refused, just as defiantly as he had stood against Senate Republican leadership in the wee hours of Jan. 7 when he voted to object even as people cleaned blood off the floors of the Capitol.

Sometime in late 2022, Hawley saw what many billionaire businessmen and top-tier elected officials missed: that Donald Trumps quest to reclaim the Republican presidential nomination was unstoppable. Accordingly, he quickly announced that he would not seek the White House in 2024, but would instead run for re-election.

And he began demonstrating impressive political dexterity.

Whereas a presidential primary would have required that Hawley appeal to the median primary voter (who firmly believes, despite Trumps loss in 60 post-election court cases in which he sought to prove election fraud, that the election was stolen), Hawley had no reason to be concerned about a U.S. Senate primary in Missouri.

Back home, his only concern was a potential general election fight against young, chiseled ex-Marine Lucas Kunce, who had developed a hard-edged populist message and national small-dollar fundraising base in his 2022 bid.

Hawley, no dummy, quickly pivoted his focus from election denialism to a blend of economic and cultural populism calibrated to court Missouri swing voters.

He sponsored and passed through the Senate legislation providing billions of dollars in compensation for cancer victims whose disease could be traced to nuclear waste exposure associated with federal government-funded activities, a pervasive problem in North St. Louis County.

He embarked on a multi-year effort to gain support from the Teamsters Union by co-authoring a letter with Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut scolding Amazon for mistreating its drivers, and was the sole Republican to vote for legislation requiring that Amazon drivers be treated as employees as opposed to contractors, earning public praise from the Teamsters.

Soon thereafter, he walked a Teamsters picket line in St. Louis, personally engaging rank-and-file members and garnering more union praise, and proposed to slap a 100% tariff on Mexican-manufactured electric vehicles, which the Teamsters again cheered.

Knowing that he would likely face a general election opponent with potentially broad appeal to working- and middle-class swing voters, Hawleys well-timed moves sought to convert a group that had long opposed him, and reduce the likelihood that an expansive coalition against him could coalesce.

-

The other Missouri politician who became a polarizing figure nationally was Cori Bush. Having comfortably won a 2022 re-election bid, she took a different tack than Hawley in dealing with her political vulnerabilities.

Instead of backing away from her most polarizing positions, she leaned into them.

Years after calls to defund the police had become unpopular and some cities who shifted funding away from law enforcement reversed course, Bush stuck with her position, despite continuing public safety challenges in her district and despite a federal investigation into hundreds of thousands she spent on private security for herself provided by her husband.

The Jewish community both locally and nationally had long viewed Bush with skepticism due to her vocal support for a Palestinian state, her comments blaming Israel for Middle East strife and her association with a known anti-Semitic activist.

But instead of personally engaging Jewish community leaders, Bush mostly avoided them.

Meeting with a Jewish group just once after four years in office despite repeated requests from numerous organizations was not the recipe to neutralize opposition  especially after Bush glibly noted that her trick to dealing with groups with whom she disagrees was simply to ignore their calls.

She faced renewed opposition from the Jewish community over the past year due to comments she made in the wake of the Oct. 7 massacre in Israel by Hamas combatants seeming to blame Israel in equal part for the carnage.

Those comments turbo-charged the national effort to recruit a primary opponent for her, culminating in St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bells emergence.

But instead of walking back her controversial comments once Bell announced his candidacy, Bush again leaned in, first voting on the losing side of a 422-2 vote to deny immigration benefits to declared Hamas members, and then  even after an onslaught of national money flooded the district attacking her  declining to call Hamas a terrorist group.

We were called terrorists during Ferguson, she said of herself and other 2014 protesters. Has (Hamas) hurt people? Absolutely. Has the Israeli military hurt people? Absolutely.

One polarizing Missouri politician displayed dexterity by sitting down with some of his longtime opponents, finding common ground, neutralizing their opposition and even found some unexpected support.

While  like almost everything Hawley does  his pivot felt wholly inauthentic, it was effective. His Senate race is no longer considered one of the top 10 most hotly contested races in the country.

The other politician was wholly authentic, and in a world not defined so coldly and mathematically on biennial election nights, might be universally admired for the strength of her convictions. Instead of the Hawley pirouette to safer terrain, she leaned into some of her most divisive stances, hugging her base instead of courting those who might have been open to her.

Thats a big reason why she lost on Tuesday.
Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., was defeated on Tuesday by St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell in what ended up being the second most expensive primary election in history.

In the weeks before Tuesday's vote, United Democracy Project, the campaign arm of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), spent $8 million on Bell's behalf. The race for Missouri's 1st District was overshadowed in spending only by the primary election in New York's 16th District in June, where AIPAC helped defeat Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., who like Bush is a progressive member of the "Squad" and a critic of Israel.

AIPAC, which targets candidates they deem too critical of Israel and its war in Gaza, sought to make examples of Bush and Bowman this cycle, testing the theory that knocking off two especially vulnerable incumbents saddled with missteps would send the right message. News outlets called the race for Bell, who leads Bush 51.2 to 45.6 percent as of Wednesday morning, hours after polls closed.

I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust the people of this district have placed in me, Bell said in a statement. This victory belongs to every volunteer, every supporter, and every voter who believes in our vision for a better future.

Bell, the elected lead prosecutor in St. Louis County, initially sought the Democratic nomination to confront first-term Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., but later changed his mind and ran against Bush instead. Though he was backed by AIPAC money and some donors who also contributed to Republicans, Bell campaigned as a progressive who would be a more effective legislator than Bush. Attacks on Bush over her vote against the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law and missed votes for other legislation dominated the airwaves, but the progressive lawmaker narrowed the final vote margin with an effective grassroots organizing campaign that previously helped her beat incumbent Rep. Lacy Clay in the 2020 primary.

Bush, who raised $2 million to withstand the heavy spending against her, also counted on the support of St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones and House Minority Whip Katherine Clark, D-Mass., while Bell got the endorsement of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. AIPAC and its allies bombarded the St. Louis metro area with digital and mail ads supporting Bell and attacking Bush, but true to its playbook hardly mentioned Israel or Palestine.

But the candidates themselves did spar over the issue. In October 2023, Bush called Israel's invasion of Gaza an "ethnic cleansing campaign" and wrote on social media that collective punishment against Palestinians for Hamass actions is a war crime. She declined to call Hamas a terrorist organization at the time, a position she reiterated in the days ahead of the primary election.

"We were called terrorists during Ferguson," she said of herself and other activists who protested the 2014 police killing of Michael Brown, a Black teenager. "Have they hurt people? Absolutely. Has the Israeli military hurt people? Absolutely."

Bell called those comments "wrong and offensive." Bush responded by criticizing Bell's reliance on outside money, a trait shared by pro-Israel challengers this election cycle; she did so again Tuesday evening in a speech to her supporters.

Whether Im congresswoman or not, Im still taking care of my people, she said. Because your side is so weak, you had to spend $19 million.

Bush also came under scrutiny for what some residents of her district called unresponsive constituent services, an accusation that also hurt Bowman in his election. She was also criticized for using campaign funds to hire a private security detail that included her own husband, fueling allegations of corruption. Even after the Department of Justice launched an investigation, Bush continued to keep him on her payroll.

Both candidates emerged as public figures from the police killing of Brown and subsequent unrest. Bush took a leading role in the Black Lives Matter protests, becoming a fierce critic of police conduct towards Black Americans. Bell, a private lawyer at the time, began holding meetings about community policing before running against and defeating Prosecuting Attorney Bob McCulloch, who failed to indict Darren Wilson, the officer who shot Brown and claimed self-defense. Bell reopened the examination but ultimately decided there wasn't enough evidence to charge him. Brown's father later starred in a Bush ad accusing Bell of "[using] my family for power."

"And now he's trying to sell out St. Louis," he continued.

The race also featured some positive campaigning. Bush touted her role in bringing $2 billion to the 1st District and said that her protest on the steps of the Capitol in 2021 helped extend the federal eviction moratorium for thousands of her constituents. Bell focused on his record as a prosecutor, which included setting up programs to divert people with mental health and substance abuse problems towards treatment instead of jail and expanding efforts to examine potential cases of wrongful conviction.

The Bush-Bell race is likely to be the last test for AIPAC this cycle. They declined to campaign against other Squad members such as Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., Summer Lee, D-Pa., and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, N.Y., who all cruised to re-election.
Missouri Representative Cori Bush became the second Squad member to get knocked out by the efforts of pro-Israel lobbyists Tuesday night, losing her primary race to St. Louis County prosecuting attorney Wesley Bell.

The race was tight, but Bell held a small but steady margin over Bush as the votes were counted.

The blow-up race became yet another temperature gauge on Democratic divisions over hot-button political issues, including the Israel-Palestine conflict. The fundraising arm of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or AIPACthe United Democracy Project PACspent more than $7 million on Bells campaign to undermine the pro-Palestine Bushs influence in D.C.

The hotly contested issue made Bushs race one of the priciest House primaries of all timethough not quite as expensive as New York Representative Jamaal Bowmans primary, which he lost to Westchester County Executive George Latimer in June over similar issues. More than $23 million was spent on advertising alone in that race.

Bush has argued that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and was one of the first representatives to call for a cease-fire, just weeks after Hamass October 7 attack.

Even in the waning days of the race, Bush staunchly defended her position on Israels war, which has so far killed more than 39,000 Palestinians. In an interview with The New York Times published Monday, Bush refused to call Hamas a terrorist organization.

We were called terrorists during Ferguson, Bush told the publication, referring to the anti-racism protests in Ferguson, Missouri, where she made her name as an activist. Im not trying to compare us, but that taught me to be careful about labeling if I dont know.

Her campaign later walked back the comment.

Meanwhile, her opponent had aggressively campaigned alongside Jewish advocacy groups in the St. Louis area. That could have helped him cinch the districts 2.8 percent Jewish populationa demographic that Jewish Democratic Council of America chief of staff Sam Crystal told ABC News could make the difference in a close race.

That he is not just expressing support for the issues that Jewish voters are prioritizing but taking the time to actually reach out to Jewish voters in the district and to create relationships with the Jewish leaders has been a big impact on why hes gained so much support in the district, Crystal told the outlet on Monday.

Ultimately, there were few policy differences between Bush and Bell. Instead, the election boiled down to foreign policy stances and political rhetoric, according to The Washington Post: a choice between a candidate who would vote alongside the Democratic establishment or one who would continue to challenge it.
Rep. Cori Bush (D) lost her primary in Missouri on Tuesday in the latest blow to the progressive squad on Capitol Hill, according to a projection from Decision Desk HQ.

Bushs loss to St. Louis Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell in the 1st Congressional Districts Democratic primary makes her the second member of the group to lose reelection after Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) earlier this year.

The racial justice activists failure to secure a third House term came after her race received outsized attention for the amount of money that poured in. Pro-Israel special interest groups spent the most on the race, with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and the United Democracy Project (UDP), AIPACs super PAC, dropping some $9 million to defeat Bush, who has been critical of Israels war against the terrorist organization Hamas.

Ahead of Election Day, Bushs allies and campaign organizers worried that the amount of cash would be too great for Bush to overcome, prompting an intraparty debate over how grassroots organizing should be handled. Some predicted that a high-profile loss for Bush would make candidates and strategists rethink the playbooks theyve been using against well-funded opponents.

That reset may be forthcoming after the results showed Bush will not progress to the November general election. Bell is expected to win the solidly blue seat in the fall.

In addition to criticism surrounding her position on the conflict in the Middle East, Bush also had to contend with the political ramifications of a federal investigation into allegations she used campaign money inappropriately to obtain special House security, which she insists are inaccurate.

Though progressives are likely to be even more anxious about their future in Congress following Tuesday nights defeat, the results for them this cycle have been mixed. Though Bush and Bowmans losses put them on notice, other progressives, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), are likely to glide to reelection. And another squad member, Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.), won her primary earlier this year despite being outspent.

Those mixed results raise question about how progressive incumbents can beat challengers with more money.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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President Joe Biden says the U.S. isnt at war anywhere in the world. But one giant asterisk to that claim is whats been happening for nearly a year in the skies over the Red Sea.

U.S. forces have launched roughly 800 missiles and seven rounds of air strikes against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels that have controlled Yemen since November in what has become the most sustained military campaign by American forces since the anti-ISIS air war in Iraq and Syria that reached its height in 2016-2019.

The battle in the Red Sea has been pushed into the background with the worlds attention fixed on the U.S. presidential election and higher-profile conflicts such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and Israels war in Gaza. But an expected Iranian attack on Israel in the coming days will almost certainly rely heavily on proxies in Lebanon and Yemen, putting the U.S. ships in the region in the middle of the fight.

Speaking at a virtual event on Wednesday, Vice Adm. George Wikoff, commander of Naval Forces Central Command, said the Houthis are well armed and have strong and consistent supply lines into Iran, and are looking for a reason to use it.

While the group is claiming that its latest attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea are aimed at Israeli vessels, the reality is theyre attacking anything they can hit. Wikoff said 25 civilian ships have been attacked by the Houthis between 2016 and October 2023.

The Navy is knocking down most of those drones and missiles targeting commercial shipping, requiring the U.S. to deploy warships to the Red Sea for months. The extended deployments will impact [deployment] decisions two years from now, three years from now across the globe, Wikoff said.

Rep. Joe Courtney of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Seapower panel, said the extended operations will put pressure on lawmakers to raise the Pentagon budget by more than the Biden administration sought for the coming year.

I think its clear that  were going to have to come to grips with either going up higher with the topline, Courtney said, adding that lawmakers may need to deliberate on whether a supplemental will be on top of that. The extended combat deployments are stressing our Navy, Courtney added.

The length and uncertain endgame for the Red Sea mission, which has pulled in so many high-end American assets including multiple aircraft carriers, destroyers, cruisers and air wings stationed in the region, has frustrated members of Congress.

We are burning readiness to the tune of tens of billions of dollars for what really amounts to a ragtag bunch of terrorists that are Iran proxies, said Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.), who chairs the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness. Iran is the core of the issue.

Defense officials counter those arguments by pointing out that the Navy has always been in the business of protecting commercial shipping, and the intensity of the Houthi attacks using explosive-leaden uncrewed boats, missiles and drones demanded a response from the international community.

British, French, Dutch and Japanese ships have all sailed alongside American warships over the past nine months, though the bulk of the action has been borne by the American ships.

Day after day, it is primarily the U.S. Navy that has been fighting off waves of inexpensive, mass-produced drones launched by Houthis targeting shipping in the Red Sea. And day after day the drones keep coming, forcing the American military to burn through hundreds of multi-million dollar missiles on a mission with no end in sight.





Its a battle that has emerged as the United States most expansive and enduring military operation currently underway, a campaign that risks chewing through munitions the Pentagon would rather stockpile for a potential confrontation with China. It also in some ways contradicts Bidens declaration last month, as he announced that he was ending his reelection campaign, that he is the first president of this century to report to the American people that the United States is not at war anywhere in the world.

The fight is being fueled largely by Iran with some help from Chinese companies selling dual-use components that can be used in drones and other equipment, leading the Biden administration to slap sanctions on Houthi and Iranian individuals and companies.

Despite that, the supply lines into Yemen remain open. In response to the risk to commercial shipping, the U.S. has parked aircraft carriers and missile defense destroyers in the Red Sea for months on end, spending time and money on a fight that costs Tehran little and pulls ships and assets from other missions in the Indo-Pacific and elsewhere.

There is a huge cost being placed on the U.S. in continuing its mission in the Red Sea, said Jonathan Lord, a former Pentagon official, including a real strategic cost to U.S. readiness, to say nothing of the opportunity cost on our ability to project power in the world. Lord is now a fellow at the Center for a New American Security think tank in Washington.

There are two overlapping missions for U.S. forces in the Red Sea. Prosperity Guardian is a multinational, defensive effort to protect commercial shipping in the waterway, and Poseidon Archer is a punitive campaign being run by the U.S. and U.K. which actively hunts Houthi targets deep inside Yemen.

The seven rounds of airstrikes  in which the U.K. has participated  require the signoff of Biden and have destroyed a significant amount of Houthi capability, the U.S. Central Command said in a statement, including dozens of weapons and equipment storage facilities, numerous command and control facilities, air defense systems, radars, and multiple helicopters.

During the USS Eisenhower carrier strike groups twice-extended nine-month deployment to the Red Sea, U.S. forces fired over 135 Tomahawk land attack missiles, weapons that cost upwards of $2 million apiece, at Houthi targets in Yemen. The ships also launched 155 standard missiles of various kinds, which cost between $2 million and $4 million per missile, to destroy the drones.

The F-18 aircraft aboard the Eisenhower also fired 60 air-to-air missiles and 420 air-to-surface weapons during the defense strikes at sea and targets on the ground. The Eisenhower and its escort ships returned to post in Virginia in July, handing off to the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier group, which has continued knocking down drones on a daily basis.

It would be hard to argue that freedom of navigation has been restored, in the Red Sea, said Dana Stroul, who was the Pentagons top civilian official for the Middle East until late last year.

After months of strikes, the Houthis have actually escalated their campaign, including the use of a drone that targeted Tel Aviv. So its hard to say based on whats happened to date that freedom of navigation has been restored, Strohl said.

The Biden administration has imposed sanctions on Iranian companies and individuals supplying the Houthis with components for drones and missiles, and on July 31 hit two individuals and two individuals and four companies in connection to the procurement of weapons, including military-grade components from Chinese companies.

Some Republicans are saying the answer to the Houthi problem involves more pressure on Iran.

The precision anti-ship and air-to-ground missiles that are being used in Yemen are the very type of weapons that would be front and center in any fight with China, so Chinas ultimately the big winner across the board, Waltz said. Our fleet is getting worn out. Were shooting off the missiles we need to defend against the Taiwan scenario.
Costs for electricity during extreme weather rising; Dominion says nothing to worry about  yet

Transmission lines in Louisa County. (Ned Oliver/ Virginia Mercury)

The regional electric grid that supplies power to Virginia during times of extreme weather announced a 1,400% increase in some electric costs after its most recent capacity auction. But Dominion officials were quick to assure customers that they would not see an increase in their bills before the end of next year.

PJM Interconnection, which oversees the electric grid serving several mid-Atlantic states, including Virginia, announced the increase for its capacity market. Dominion buys electricity off of capacity markets during peak, or emergency, demands.

In a news release, PJM blamed the increase on the need to meet surging electricity demand, which is coming from data centers, and electrification of vehicles and home appliances.

Those needs also come amid the retirement of generation sources, PJM officials noted. States around the region have implemented policy goals to take offline older, fossil fuel sources to decarbonize electric grids. Virginia has a target to do so by mid-century as a way to combat increasing storm intensities caused by climate change.

Understanding the capacity market begins with knowing that Dominion owns generation sources to provide the electricity it transmits and distributes throughout its grid. Dominion also purchases electricity from a separate wholesale market, which is where third-party power producers sell the electricity they create.

But when the grid experiences high demands of electricity, such as winter and summer when either heaters or AC systems are cranking, the utility may have to purchase electricity from the capacity market to meet its obligations.

The auction prices, which are set for future periods to give the third-party power producers an idea of how much they could make and whether its feasible to keep their sources online, were recently set for the broader PJM region at $269.20 for 2025-26. For sources within Dominion territory, they were set at $444.26 per megawatt, and in Baltimore Gas and Electric territory at $466.35 because of a limited number of them and transmission constraints. Previously, the price for the PJM region, which then included Dominions territory, was $28.92 per megawatt. The highest cost for other constrained areas, those with limited generation sources and transmission lines, in the previous auction was $96.24.

The significantly higher prices in this auction confirm our concerns that the supply/demand balance is tightening across the RTO, said PJM President and CEO Manu Asthana in a statement. The market is sending a price signal that should incent investment in resources.

The costs to customers

Dominion, on its investor earnings call last week, said that the utility shouldnt be impacted too much by the capacity market increase because those purchases only account for about 1% of current customer bills.

Current rates, which on average are about $128 for a residential customer, are locked in until Dominion undergoes its next rate review next year. That means Dominion will bear any increased capacity market costs from June until rates change at the end of 2025, said Steven D. Ridge, executive vice president and chief financial officer on the earnings call. And, since Dominion sells power it produces into the wholesale market, any capacity market purchases has a natural hedge by those sales.

Well have offshore wind come in, well have the Chesterfield [natural gas combustion turbines] come in, said Ridge, speaking to generation sources that could come online. But demand is growing. So as that persists, well think about ways to become effectively self-sufficient as we have been in the past as we catch up on demand. But from a financial impact, it truly is just a temporary item.

The concern over grid reliability is why Dominion is proposing the 1,000 megawatt natural gas plant in Chesterfield County, as well as a natural gas storage tank to supply other facilities, and transmission line projects to deliver power from various sources. It is also seeking proposals to design a small modular nuclear reactor. Those developments come alongside Dominions continued buildout of offshore wind, some solar projects and long duration energy storage devices.

Virginia needs more reliable power generation and new transmission infrastructure to reliably serve the growing needs of our customers, Dominion spokesperson Aaron Ruby told the Mercury after the earnings call, while adding that additional generation sources, will be evaluated in our 2024 [Integrated Resource Plan] this October.

One environmental group, the Natural Resources Defense Council, says its the unreliability of natural gas that contributed to the rising prices in the capacity market auction. That concern stems from natural gas delivery systems freezing during Winter Storm Elliot in 2022, said Claire Lang-Ree, advocate, sustainable FERC project, climate & energy.

[Natural gas] actual added value is kind of diminished, considering some constraints, said Lang-Ree. I think it also points to the benefits of a diverse resource mix  being able to have not only storage, but also onshore and offshore wind. Offshore wind has a really high capacity factor and can provide reliability when theres big winter storms or places where the rest of the grid is experiencing outages.

PJM has been criticized for a large backlog of solar generation sources waiting to come online across the grid. The approval process has undergone reforms, but elected officials said PJM should also adopt some cost-saving measures outlined in a recent order from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission aimed at improving regional planning for transmission lines.

There is no time to waste in planning for the transmission system to support our future energy needs, said a letter from the officials, which included Del. Rip Sullivan, D-Fairfax, and Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Richmond.

But while Virginias regulators have noted a gap in the capabilities of solar to provide electricity generation to meet capacity needs, since the amount of electricity a solar panel produces isnt always at its fullest potential, Lang-Ree acknowledged there are other steps Dominion can also take to add capacity. Those include pursuing more power purchase agreements with third party generators, which environmental groups say Dominion should do more of because of their lower cost to provide electricity, in addition to allowing some buildings to interconnect solar panels to alleviate their strain on the grid.

When prices are this high, small amounts of [megawatts] can make huge cost differences, Lang-Ree said.

Editors note: This story has been updated to reflect that the average Dominion customers bill is $128, not $133 as previously reported.

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Strengths: Dominant market position with a comprehensive suite of financial technology solutions.

Weaknesses: Dependence on the financial industry's cyclical nature and regulatory changes.

Opportunities: Expansion into emerging markets and diversification of service offerings.

Threats: Intense competition and rapid technological change.

On August 6, 2024, Broadridge Financial Solutions Inc (NYSE:BR), a global leader in financial technology, released its 10-K filing, offering a comprehensive view of its operations and financial health. As a part of the S&P 500 Index, Broadridge operates through two primary segments: Investor Communication Solutions (ICS) and Global Technology and Operations (GTO). The ICS segment, accounting for approximately 75% of total revenues, is integral to the company's investor communication services, while the GTO segment, contributing 25% of revenues, focuses on capital markets, wealth, and investment management solutions. The financial tables within the filing reveal a company with a robust revenue stream, maintaining a consistent share of revenue generation between its two segments over the fiscal years 2023 and 2024.

Beyond the Balance Sheet: What SWOT Reveals About Broadridge Financial Solutions Inc (BR)

Strengths

Market Leadership and Comprehensive Solutions: Broadridge Financial Solutions Inc (NYSE:BR) stands out for its dominant market position, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions that cater to a wide array of financial services. The company's Investor Communication Solutions segment is a testament to its leadership, handling a significant portion of proxy materials distribution and voting processes for banks, broker-dealers, and corporate issuers. This segment alone accounts for a substantial 75% of Broadridge's total revenues, highlighting the trust and reliance placed on the company by its clients. The ability to manage over 800 million equity proxy positions and process billions of investor communications annually not only demonstrates Broadridge's operational excellence but also solidifies its reputation as a trusted partner in the financial industry.

Technological Innovation and Infrastructure: Broadridge's commitment to technological innovation is a core strength that sets it apart from competitors. The company's technology-driven solutions, such as its SaaS offerings, allow clients to mutualize key functions, thereby reducing costs and enhancing operational efficiency. Broadridge's technology strategy, focusing on architecture, data, cyber and data security, and AI, ensures high levels of availability, scalability, reliability, and flexibility. This strategic approach to technology has enabled Broadridge to maintain a robust and resilient infrastructure, capable of supporting the complex needs of the global financial services industry.

Story continues

Weaknesses

Industry Dependence and Regulatory Vulnerability: Broadridge's performance is closely tied to the financial industry's cyclical nature and regulatory environment. The company's services are impacted by factors such as trading volumes, market prices, and liquidity of the securities markets, which are influenced by broader economic and political conditions. Any significant downturn in the financial markets or adverse regulatory changes could negatively affect Broadridge's business and results of operations. This dependence on the financial sector's health and the regulatory landscape presents a weakness that could expose the company to market volatility and compliance risks.

Operational Scaling Challenges: As Broadridge continues to grow, the company faces the challenge of scaling its operations efficiently. The need for new and enhanced communication and information systems, along with the training of personnel to operate these systems, could strain the company's resources. While Broadridge has made significant investments in hardware and software to accommodate growth, the rapid expansion of its client base and the complexity of financial services may lead to operating inefficiencies, client dissatisfaction, and potential revenue loss if not managed effectively.

Opportunities

Expansion into Emerging Markets: Broadridge has the opportunity to expand its global footprint by entering emerging markets, where financial services are experiencing rapid growth. By leveraging its existing technology platforms and expertise, Broadridge can tap into new client segments and diversify its revenue streams. The company's scalable SaaS offerings and network benefits are well-suited to meet the demands of emerging economies, providing a significant growth opportunity.

Diversification of Service Offerings: The evolving needs of the financial industry present Broadridge with opportunities to diversify its service offerings. By developing new solutions that address the challenges of AI, machine learning, quantum computing, digital and distributed ledger, and cloud computing, Broadridge can cater to the increasingly sophisticated requirements of its clients. This diversification strategy can help the company maintain its competitive edge and foster long-term growth.

Threats

Intense Competition: Broadridge operates in a highly competitive industry, facing competition from firms that provide similar investor communication and governance solutions, as well as clients' in-house operations. Competitors may be able to respond more quickly to new or changing opportunities, which could affect Broadridge's ability to maintain or increase its business. The company must continuously innovate and improve its offerings to stay ahead of the competition.

Technological Disruption: The rapid pace of technological change poses a threat to Broadridge, as emerging technologies and fintech startups could potentially disintermediate traditional service providers. Broadridge must remain agile and adapt to technological advancements to avoid becoming obsolete. Failure to keep pace with new technologies could harm the company's competitive position and impact future growth.

In conclusion, Broadridge Financial Solutions Inc (NYSE:BR) exhibits a strong market position and technological prowess, which are central to its operational success. However, the company must navigate the challenges of industry dependence, regulatory changes, and operational scaling. Opportunities for expansion and diversification, coupled with the need to stay ahead of intense competition and technological disruption, define Broadridge's strategic landscape. By leveraging its strengths and addressing its weaknesses, Broadridge can capitalize on opportunities and mitigate threats, positioning itself for sustained growth in the dynamic financial technology sector.

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.


Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks at a July 29 rally in support of Kamala Harris' presidential run along with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro at a high school in Ambler, Pennsylvania. Lev Radin/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images

This seasons Bachelorette: Presidential Election Edition has come to a close, which means Vice President Kamala Harris has passed out a single rose to one hopeful 2024 presidential running mate.

The Democratic nominee for president selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her possible future vice president on Tuesday, ending weeks of speculation and shameless self-promotion from a list of very white, very male candidates.

Though its a relief to watch Harris and the Democratic Party avoid their historically Democratic ways and self-sabotage by way of a more moderate (and problematic) pick (i.e., Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro), Im pouring one out for what could have been.

Yes, I will stan Walz as Harris running mate  the walking, talking antidote to what many voters would expect from a white male Midwestern politician. As governor, he has protected abortion access, guaranteed free breakfast and lunch for all public school students, legalized cannabis, strengthened union protections and much more.

But Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was right there! And though Harris didnt pick the obviously safe choice in Shapiro  what many will continue to argue was necessary in order to balance a Democratic ticket led by a biracial woman who embodies many progressive firsts that a portion of the country is either extremely uncomfortable with or downright despises  the Democrats still left a far more progressive, far more hopeful ticket on the proverbial table.

Whitmers name came up consistently (though not seriously enough) in the VP contender conversation, and for good reason. Whitmers ability to forcefully articulate all that is wrong with a Republican Party beholden to a group of radical bigots and blatant misogynists is a sight to behold. And while Whitmer made it clear she planned to remain in Michigan rather than vie for a spot in the White House, wouldnt it have been great to see her stand toe-to-toe with childless woman-hater JD Vance on a vice presidential candidate debate stage?

The one-liners! The fact-spewing! The side-eye worthy slights that best highlight how unqualified the GOP ticket truly is! Moments like what occurred recently at a Harris for President rally in Pennsylvania, when Whitmer shared the one thing she actually admires about Donald Trumps running mate.

Now my grandma always said that I needed to find at least one good thing about one person, so Ill give JD this: He is efficient, Whitmer said. In one sentence he insulted women, Black people and Jewish people. Thats efficient, and thats all I got.

Whitmer dropped the proverbial mic straight on the Republican running mates big toe.

We need more of this, please.

Whitmer first became nationally recognized in 2013, when she spoke forcefully and vulnerably on the Michigan Senate floor about her experience with rape while attending Michigan State. Whitmer shared her story as she opposed a Republican-led effort to require women to purchase extra health insurance to cover abortion care even in cases of rape or incest.

Over 20 years ago, I was a victim of rape, she said. And thank God it didnt result in a pregnancy, because I cant imagine going through what I went through and then having to consider what to do about an unwanted pregnancy from an attacker.

In sharing something so painful and personal, Whitmer became more than a politician  she became a storyteller who, unfortunately, far too many of us can relate to with our own stories of inhumane violence and painful violation. Whitmer seems to know, inherently, the power of storytelling and how personal narratives can combat wave after wave of sexist hate and egregious disinformation.

And honestly, there was no better team to face a Republican presidential nominee who has been found liable for sexual assault and a wannabe vice president who has rallied against abortion ban exceptions while calling rape and incest inconvenient circumstances than a former prosecutor in Kamala Harris and a defiant sexual assault survivor in Gretchen Whitmer.

Sigh.

Whitmer was also the target of a domestic terrorism plot orchestrated by Trump-loving far-right extremists. Their goal, according to the FBI, was to kidnap, potentially torture and even kill Whitmer in an attempt to overthrow Michigans state government.

Instead of retreating in understandable fear for her well-being or resigning her post citing the need to protect her family, Whitmer forcefully chastised then-President Donald Trump after he refused to condemn the Michigan militia group responsible for the failed scheme. At the time, Trump doubled down on his attacks against her, calling the governor a wannabe dictator who has to open up because people cant stand her.

In this moment, blaming the victim is appalling and downright dangerous, Whitmer said of Trumps response. She also connected the foiled kidnapping attempt to Trumps violent rhetoric, rightfully pointing out that when Trump called torch-carrying neo-Nazis in Charlottesville, Virginia, good people, hate groups heard the presidents words not as a rebuke but as a rallying cry.

When our leaders speak, their words matter, she said. They carry weight. When our leaders meet with, encourage or fraternize with domestic terrorists, they legitimize their actions and they are complicit.

Whitmer is, once again, a person who could have spoken from a place of lived experience when facing a Republican ticket of election-denying insurrection-apologists. Thankfully, Walz cannot (lets not make surviving domestic terrorist kidnapping plots a thing, shall we?), which left Whitmer uniquely qualified to take on the Project 2025-loving Republican ticket in a vital election that will determine the fate of this nations democracy.

I get it. An all-woman ticket was scary. This country has, to date, failed to elect a woman as president, even when women run against egregiously unqualified, racist, sexist fraudsters. Obviously, far too many strategists, campaign advisers and even voters still do not believe this nations electorate is capable of selecting not one but two women to the White House.

So for the time being, Ill be grateful - joyful, even  that Democrats gave the nation a consolation prize in Walz: a girl-dad who has made reproductive justice not just a womans issue but also a mans issue. Ill happily support the man who correctly and succinctly labeled the GOP as weird. And Ill continue to be grateful (and surprised) that Harris didnt play it totally safe and pick a more moderate white dude as a running mate  a move that would have no doubt cost her campaign the history-making enthusiasm that has fundamentally changed this presidential campaign.

Ill also maintain the hope that one day, ideally when Im still breathing, Democrats will ditch politics outdated rule book, which has historically denied women access to the highest positions of power, and go all-in on an all-woman ticket.

I want to live to see women not just break the glass ceiling but demolish the motherfucker.
Construction of up to 100 townhomes will proceed in southeast Durham, despite some council members and residents environmental concerns about the development.

In two votes Monday, the Durham City Council approved annexing and rezoning 13.22 acres of land off Sherron Road for development by M/I Homes, a company based in Ohio.

The annexation vote was 4-3 with the rezoning vote 5-2.

Some community members said they are worried about resulting environmental harms. Council members Chelsea Cook, Nate Baker and DeDreana Freeman shared that concern, voting against the measure.

Mayor Leonardo Williams and council members Mark-Anthony Middleton, Javiera Caballero and Carl Rist voted in favor.

Currently, the annexed land is mostly clear  a single house sits on it. Developers are building single-family homes in most of the surrounding areas. Only one area adjacent to the annexed parcel isnt within Durham city limits.

The developers plan to keep most existing trees and plant some new ones, amounting to 20.5% tree cover on the property, said attorney Nil Ghosh, who represented the developers.

And, 5% of the units built will be kept affordable at 80% of area median income for 30 years. That offer substituted a $120,000 donation to the citys dedicated affordable housing fund.

It provides much needed housing  affordable housing, Ghosh said. It also provides housing variety in this region.

Concern about water supply

But a group of southeast Durham residents from Preserve Rural Durham said they have concerns about construction damaging regional drinking water supplies  namely at Lick Creek.

The Sherron Road development is less than half a mile uphill from the waterway, said Tammy Sawaya, a Preserve Rural Durham member. That means sediment from the blasting and mass grading could likely end up in Lick Creek, she said.

A September 2023 amendment to Durhams sedimentation and erosion control rule is also not working, said Preserve Rural Durham member Pamela Andrews. She said sediment is rushing from Lick Creek into the Falls Lake watershed, which provides drinking water to Raleigh and Wake County.

You want to get a big gulp of water out of there? she said after the meeting, pointing to a picture of orange-brown water. Absolutely not.

Some speakers also said the area doesnt have enough infrastructure to support new residential districts. They questioned if the closest police and fire stations have the staff to serve an influx of residents in the area.

The group asked the city council to fix these issues before approving new developments in southeast Durham. For the Sherron Road development specifically, the speakers also asked for 50-foot road buffers and other environmental protections.

Cook, the council member, echoed many residents concerns. She said the development proposal didnt seem to follow the city comprehensive plans requirements for walkability, connectivity and housing diversity.

Were seeing this haphazard, one developer at a time  chunks small, chunks large, completely disoriented and chaotic, she said. I dont think its a good legacy.

Council members who supported the annexation said while they understood the residents environmental concerns, M/I Homes affordable housing offer was too important to pass up.

Is it exactly what I want? No, council member Javiera Caballero said. Is it better than the other things around here? Yes.

Other council members urged their colleagues to be realistic about expectations for new development. Middleton said city councils job is to make sure developers meet expectations from Durhams unified development ordinance.

I need to write whatever standard I want into the UDO, Middleton said. Our minimum needs to be our maximum.

Forcing developers to exceed those expectations isnt within the limits of his job as council member, he said. The council cant block a specific development because larger environmental protections are necessary, Middleton added

Baker, who voted against the annexation, said the Sherron Road annexation represents a pattern of unsustainable development that has pushed southeast Durham into the Triangles greatest climate crisis.

It is simply corporate-driven sprawl, he said.
A council manager who broke wind on a junior colleague as he ate his lunch is guilty of age discrimination, a tribunal has ruled.

Lee Marsh, who is in his late 50s, found it amusing when he approached his younger co-worker while he was eating and broke wind on him, a hearing was told.

Mr Marsh then threatened the housing worker in his 30s I can get rid of you like I have the others in the past.

An employment tribunal has now ruled that the incident amounted to age discrimination.

The hearing in Birmingham ruled that Mr Marsh had a problem with his ambitious colleague potentially having authority over him.

The younger colleague, who was granted anonymity by the tribunal, had brought legal proceedings against Birmingham City Council, where they both worked.

Although the tribunal ruled he was discriminated against in relation to the breaking wind incident and others, he will not receive compensation as he brought the claim too late. He is however in line for compensation for unfair dismissal.

The tribunal was told he joined the local authority in October 2020 as a caretaker, looking after estates in the city.

The right to object to disgusting behaviour

A tribunal report said: On 8 December 2020, Lee Marsh passed wind on the [housing worker], and found it amusing, whilst he was eating lunch.

The housing worker told the tribunal: [Mr Marsh] then said, you have got a lot to say for yourself for a newcomer. I said I havent, I have the right to object to disgusting behaviour.

He then said to me be careful how you speak to me as I can get rid of you. He said, you are only a trainee I can get rid of you like I have the others in the past.

It was accepted Mr Marsh warned him about going for a more senior role.

If any of you youngsters get this job I will tell you to f--- off, Mr Marsh told the housing worker.

Mr Marsh said he would tell him to f--- off because he is older and will not be told by youngsters.

The housing worker added: Once Lee got wind of my progression plan, I first felt uncomfortable around him.

It would be comments like these babies coming in and trying to take over, you are only a pup, I have got kids your age, anyway its first in last out at the council.

It was heard the pair had a number of flare-ups.

Mr Marsh told him not to mess with him because he snaps, and he hits very hard, it was heard.

In November 2021, Mr Marsh threatened him with violence, including hitting him with a chair.

Outside the realms of acceptable workplace banter

The pair were both subjected to gross misconduct allegations over the chair incident, leading to the housing worker going off work sick and then resigning.

Birmingham City Council admitted the housing worker was constructively dismissed as he should not have faced the allegations.

Employment Judge Christopher Camp found that the breaking wind incident amounted to age discrimination.

He said: Putting all of that together, there is strong evidence that Mr Marsh had a problem with somebody of [the housing workers] age potentially being in authority over him.

In relation to this allegation about Mr Marsh passing wind at [him] and telling him that he could be got rid of, the [council] has not begun to satisfy us ... that in no sense whatsoever was Mr Marsh consciously or unconsciously motivated by something to do with the [housing workers] age.

We appreciate that in many contexts age-related comments can be friendly and even affectionate and can be meant and taken as harmless and good-humoured, but on the evidence we have  which in terms of what we have directly from Mr Marsh includes only limited written evidence  there was an edge to what Mr Marsh said to the [housing worker].

Even without any edge, some of the comments were outside the realms of acceptable workplace banter.

The judge ruled that the housing worker suffered age discrimination and age-related harassment, however the claims ultimately failed because he raised them too late.

Mr Marsh was found guilty of misconduct and given a written warning.

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Court dismisses civil case against three former Decatur officers, city, drops some claims against Marquette

DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT)  A federal judge Tuesday dismissed several claims in the lawsuit filed against three former Decatur Police officers and the city of Decatur over the police shooting death of Stephen Perkins.

The court will allow a civil rights violation claim to move forward against Mac Bailey Marquette, who is also charged with murder in Perkins Sept. 29, 2023 death. The court found the Perkins family lawyers  at this stage  made a successful argument that Marquettes use of deadly force was not justified.

Madison County murder suspect in custody after extradition from Michigan

Assuming these facts are true, Officer Marquette would not be entitled to qualified immunity because, when Marquette used deadly force, Perkins was neither trying to leave the scene nor posing a serious threat of physical harm to others, The court said. Nor did Marquette warn Perkins that he might use deadly force before he shot him.

The judge also said the dismissals, including of some claims against Marquette were done without prejudice and he will allow the Perkins family lawyers to reargue the claims one more time.

In a lengthy decision on Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Corey Maze dismissed the Perkins family lawsuit against former officers Christopher Mukkadam, Joey Williams, Vance Summers, and the City of Decatur.

In explaining the decision to dismiss the wrongful death claim against the city the court said that under the currently known facts argued by the Perkins familys lawyers, Marquette did not kill Perkins out of negligence.

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The court finds that, if you assume the facts Perkins pleads are true, then the City is entitled to immunity under  11-47-190 because Marquette didnt shoot Perkins out of neglect, carelessness, or unskillfulness, he intentionally shot Perkins, Maze wrote.

In the same decision, the court also addressed former Officer Mac Marquettes claims of qualified immunity in the shooting. The court denied Marquette qualified immunity against the excessive force claim levied against him by the Perkins family but also agreed with Marquettes contention that the claim can only be made by Stephen Perkins estate, not individual family members.

Marquettes attorneys had asked the court to dismiss all the claims against him.

The court found that Marquette does have qualified immunity for the wrongful death claim made against him. The court dismissed that claim but again without prejudice allowing the family to replead the claim to address any deficiencies.

The court did not address the Perkins familys claims against the tow truck company involved in the incident. Perkins was shot during an incident surrounding an attempted repossession of his truck.

The family has also filed civil claims against Pentagon, the towing company along with the driver of the tow truck.

Decatur Lead Counsel, David Canupp made a statement saying, We are pleased with the Courts decision to grant the Citys motion to dismiss as required by applicable law.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
Court finds drunken driver who killed four Waupaca County siblings guilty after no contest plea

WAUPACA, Wis. (WFRV)  The 47-year-old Wisconsin man accused of killing four Waupaca County siblings during an alleged drunken driving crash was back in court on Wednesday for a plea hearing.

Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that Scott Farmer pleaded no contest and was found guilty by the court on one count of operating while intoxicated and four counts of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.

Man in Wisconsin accused of threatening to stab gas station employee after not being able to fill up

As a result of his no contest plea, Farmer will have his operating while revoked charge and operating with a prohibited alcohol concentration level charge dismissed but read in during the sentencing, which is set for November 22 at 9:00 a.m.

Farmer was involved in a major crash on U.S. Highway 10 just before Christmas in 2023. The crash killed four siblings, Daniel (25), Fabian (23), Lilian (14), and Daniela (9) Gonzalez, who were out for their weekly Saturday dinner at Culvers following a shopping trip.

Authorities in Wisconsin searching for two suspects after alleged home invasion

Authorities say Farmer, who is from Neenah, was driving west in the eastbound lanes and collided with the Gonzalez siblings head-on. At the crash scene, law enforcement found Farmer with an open bottle of vodka beside him.

It is the fifth time hes been found guilty of driving while intoxicated.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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The government investigated itselfand you're not allowed to see the results. On Monday, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit ruled that the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) doesn't apply to the Senate's 2012 report on CIA torture programs. The decision blocks off an avenue to find out what's in the 6,700-page paper, which the CIA has fought to keep under wraps for more than a decade.

The ruling comes after a small victory for transparency. On Friday, defense lawyers at the Guantanamo Bay military tribunal were allowed to release a photo of their defendant handcuffed and nude at a CIA black site in 2004. Defense lawyers have mentioned the existence of disturbing photos from black sites, but because almost all evidence at the Guantanamo trials is classified, they have never been able to release these photos to the public.

Over the weekend, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin canceled military prosecutors' controversial plea deal for three accused Al Qaeda members. Their cases may go to trialwhich would allow lawyers to uncover more evidence related to the CIA torture program.

The Senate investigation had been prompted by past CIA attempts to cover its tracks. After learning that the CIA had destroyed tapes of prisoners being tortured, the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence began an investigation into the CIA's entire interrogation program. (CIA officer Gina Haspel, who helped destroy the tapes and had personally watched torture sessions, later became CIA director during the Trump administration.)

By 2012, staffers had dug up reams of evidence on CIA malfeasance. They reported not only the specific torture methods, but also that the CIA had tortured innocent people (including a mentally challenged man and two of the agency's own informants), that CIA leaders had lied to the public and Congress about the program, and that much of the intelligence gained under torture was useless or worse.

For example, the false reports linking Iraq to Al Qaeda, ultimately used to justify the Iraq War, may have come from a tortured prisoner, according to the Senate report. Another prisoner, Mohamedou Ould Slahi, was tortured into making a false terrorism confession. The military held Slahi at Guantanamo Bay for 14 years before unceremoniously releasing him. FBI agent Ali Soufanwhose memoir the CIA also fought to keep secretalleges that the CIA refused to believe a real confession warning about a real plot in 2002 because it wasn't extracted under torture.

After the Senate committee finished its investigation, the CIA pushed hard to stop the results from seeing the light of day, arguing that the details must stay classified for national security reasons. When a Senate staffer locked up one incriminating document in a committee safe, fearing that the CIA would destroy it, the CIA proved his fears right by hacking into the Senate's computer network.

The Senate was finally allowed to publish a 525-page summary of its findings in 2014, but the details remain classified to this day. Even some pseudonyms of CIA officers and code names for countries were censored in the declassified summary, making it impossible to piece together a coherent timeline of many events.

City University of New York law professor Douglas Cox tried a different route: a FOIA request. Although FOIA doesn't apply to the Senate, it does apply to the executive branch. Luckily for Cox, the Senate committee had provided copies of the reports to different executive agencies, including the FBI, Department of Justice, Department of Defense, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and Department of State.

Cox asked all of those agencies for their copy in December 2016. The Department of Justice argued that, even if it possessed a copy of the report, the document still belonged to the Senate, so FOIA didn't apply. In June 2017, the Trump administration asked several of the agencies to return their copies to the Senate committee, hoping to prevent this kind of disclosure. Cox decided to sue, alleging that the administration was violating FOIA.

The case dragged on through years of appeals, and the Biden administration continued to fight Cox in court to keep details of CIA torture hidden. This week, a panel of three judges for the 2nd Circuit upheld the administration's argument. The Senate "manifested a clear intent to control the report at the time of its creation, and because the Committee's subsequent acts did not vitiate that intent, the report constitutes a congressional record not subject to FOIA," the judges wrote.

The Senate committee had disagreed on what to do with the report. Late committee chair Dianne Feinstein (DCalif.) wrote that the report "should be made available within the CIA and other components of the Executive Branch for use as broadly as appropriate to help make sure that this experience is never repeated." But then-ranking member Richard Burr (RN.C.) called the report a "highly classified and committee sensitive document" that "should not be entered into any executive branch system of records."

Feinstein's statement was "ambiguous over who retains full power over the ultimate disposition of the report," and "does not clearly address whether the report may be disseminated outside of the Executive Branch to, for example, the public," Judge William Nardini stated in the Monday ruling. So the torture report is still legally a Senate document, outside of FOIA.

Of course, nothing is stopping the Senate itself from releasing more of the torture report. But ordinary citizens apparently don't have a right to sue for its disclosure. For now, that decision will have to be a political one.

The post Court Rules That the Government Can Hide Its Own Report on CIA Torture appeared first on Reason.com.
Coyote sneaks into Simi Valley home through dog door, is killed by owner with kitchen knife

A coyote is seen in Liberty Canyon. A resident encountered a coyote Monday in his Simi Valley home, in a neighborhood that backs onto Long Canyon. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

While much of California braced for triple-digit heat waves and devastating wildfires, a coyote decided the time was right to sneak into a Simi Valley home and try to eat a Chihuahua.

On Monday just before noon, according to the Simi Valley Police Department, a resident in the 500 block of Shadow Lane was in the bathroom when he heard an unusual commotion downstairs.

When he reached the kitchen, he was startled to find a coyote had squeezed in through the dog door and was viciously attacking his pet Chihuahua.

What ensued was a discombobulating brawl. The owner tried to scare off the coyote, and when those attempts went south, he armed himself with a kitchen knife and stabbed the animal several times. He then cornered the coyote in a downstairs bathroom, where he managed to stab the predator a few more times until it was dead.

Read more: 'Just not afraid of humans': Coyotes plague Mar Vista neighborhood as pets disappear

"He continued to try and ward off the coyote making advances on the Chihuahua  and stabbed the coyote until it was unresponsive," Simi Valley Police Sgt. Bryan Samples said.

"Animal control arrived on scene," Samples added, "and recovered this deceased coyote."

The man was rushed to the emergency room for multiple, significant bite wounds to his hands and wrists, and a neighbor took the Chihuahua to a local veterinarian. Both man and pup are expected to recover.

Police noted that coyote attacks arent common in this part of town, although the neighborhood does back onto Long Canyon Trailhead, which connects to the Woodridge Open Space trail system. This expansive park area is known for sweeping meadows, large oak groves and many scenic views of the Simi Hills and Santa Susana Mountains.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Crew of doomed Titan sub knew they were going to die before implosion, lawsuit claims

Crew of doomed Titan sub knew they were going to die before implosion, lawsuit claims

The family of a French explorer who died in the Titan submersible implosion has filed a $50m wrongful death lawsuit against the operator, claiming the crew suffered terror and mental anguish before disaster struck.

Paul Henri-Nargeolets family is asking for more than $50m in damages, accusing OceanGate, the company that owned and operated the beleaguered Titan submersible, and its founder of wrongful death, gross negligence, pre-death pain and suffering and mental anguish, and other counts. His family filed the suit in Washington state court on August 6.

Nargeolet, known as Mr Titanic for having participated in 37 dives to the Titanic wreckage site  the most of any diver worldwide  set out with five other crew members to explore the famous wreckage on June 18, 2023.

But the entire mission came to a shocking end when the vessel lost contact less than two hours into its voyage. The world watched as a search-and-rescue mission rushed to find the crew before the submersibles 96-hour oxygen supply ran out.

The deaths that arose from the catastrophic implosion were directly due to the defendants persistent carelessness, recklessness and negligence, the complaint states.

A frantic rescue effort failed to save the crew on theTitan submersible (AP)

The suit accuses OceanGate and its founder, 61-year-old Stockton Rush, of having designed, constructed and operated the submersible in almost every way in a manner outside the norms of the diving community and industry. This diversion from the standard was driven by Rushs apparent obsession with being remembered for innovation alongside such luminaries as Steve Jobs and Elon Musk, according to the suit.

The lawsuit claims that Rush, specifically, flouted rules of convention, ignored warnings from experts, and used atypical materials, the suit says. Instead, he prioritized promoting his reputation as an industry disruptor.

For example, while titanium is usually used for deep-sea exploration submersibles, Rush believed that titanium was unnecessarily heavy and opted for Titans hull to be made from carbon fiber, which breaks down over time under pressure. However, Rush acknowledged the catastrophic failure where you have imperfections in the [carbon fiber] structure, so he installed an acoustic safety system to detect problems.

The Titan traversed to the depth of the wreckage site only a few times before the mission  but these trips would have weakened the vessels carbon-fiber hull and/or the connections and seals between disparate types of material, the suit added.

Oceangates head of marine operations, the employee ultimately most responsible for the safety of anyone sailing on Titan, asked for a scan of the carbon fiber hull as part of a detailed safety report, causing Rush to become infuriated. The founder not only refused to conduct a scan, but after addressing the report, Rush fired the safety chief.

On top of this experts opinion, Rush heard warnings from other experts as well as from the Marine Technology Society, which sent a letter to OceanGate in 2018 stating that the current experimental approach adopted by OceanGate  could result in negative outcomes (from minor to catastrophic). However, the suit states: None of the warnings were heeded.

The vessel was also never certified by the leading group DNV. Rush declined to seek DNV certification for Titan because he believed it would be too difficult to educate DNV personnel  who are by any measure world-class experts on the requirements and dangers of deep-sea diving  on the purported advantages of Titans innovative design, the complaint says.

Commander Paul-Henri Nargeolet pictured in 1996 (AP)

The suit also states that crew members were required to sign a waiver  which failed to disclose many key, relevant risk factorsregarding the design and operation of TITAN or the materials used in its construction.

Despite his extensive knowledge of the ocean floor near the Titanic ship, the 77-year-old Nargeolet was never fully informed about the safety of the vessel, the suit says. Neither Rush nor OceanGate ever fully or accurately disclosed all of the material facts regarding Titans design and constructionOn the contrary, Rush and OceanGate actively fostered Nargeolets (and others) false impressions about the safety and seaworthiness of the vessel.

Stockton Rush is accused of ignoring safety warnings about the vessel (OceanGate)

The worst happened. When the acoustic safety systems alarm sounded, signaling the hull was cracking under extreme pressure, it prompted the pilot to release weight and attempt to abort the expedition.

The crew had no communications and likely would have had no power either. Common sense dictates that the crew were well aware they were going to die, before dying, the suit states.

British explorer Hamish Harding died in the disaster (Blue Origin/AP)

The crew may well have heard the carbon fibers crackling noise grow more intense as the weight of the water pressed on TITANs hull, the filing says. By experts reckoning, they would have continued to descend, in full knowledge of the vessels irreversible failures, experiencing terror and mental anguish prior to the Titan ultimately imploding.

Aside from the Titan, no commercial manned submersible has ever suffered an implosion, the suit says.

Both Rush and Nargeolet died in the implosion, along with British explorer Hamish Harding, 58, UK-based Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood, 48, and his 19-year-old son Suleman.

Shahzada and Suleman Dawood smile in the final photo taken before their doomed dive on board the Titan submersible (Sourced)

Tony Buzbee, one of the lawyers for the family, said in a statement: We are hopeful that through this lawsuit we can get answers for the family as to exactly how this happened, who all were involved, and how those involved could allow this to happen.

In the immediate aftermath of the Titan tragedy, a so-called log detailing the crews final moments circulated the internet, suggesting that they were aware of the imminent implosion. But in June, Captain Jason Neubauer, chair of the Marine Board of Investigation (MBI), told the New York Times: Im confident its a false transcript. Neubauer added that his team found no evidence that the crew had any awareness of their impending deaths.

The Independent has emailed a spokesperson for the MBI for further comment.

The US Coast Guards investigation into the catastrophe is ongoing. The agency is scheduled to hold a hearing about the disaster in September.
Billionaire Sells His Home For A 65% Discount. Is The Ultra Luxury Real Estate Market In Trouble?

Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Not every dream house has a dream outcome. Billionaire Sun Microsystems co-founder Scott McNealy has sold his Silicon Valley home at a deep discount to its original asking price. The San Francisco Standard reported that the five-bedroom mansion in Palo Alto, CA was sold for $35 million, nearly 65% below what he asked in 2018.

McNealy reportedly purchased the 13-acre lot in the 1980s but he and his wife Susan didnt start building the home until 2008. McNealy founded Sun Microsystems in the 1980s which was later sold to Oracle for $7.4 billion. Over eight years, they spent nearly $11 million creating a highly customized stone and adobe structure. The house has over 21,000 square feet with every amenity a billionaire could desire, including an indoor ice rink, a gym with a climbing wall, a home theater, and a dance floor. Outside is a pool, spa, and large pavilion with views over the surrounding hillside.

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The home first hit the market for $96.8 million in 2018. It was relisted for $53.9 million in January 2020 and removed from the market in 2022. The sale was handled off-market. Realtor Deepee Chattha, who had the listing in 2020, told the San Francisco Standard, Whoever bought this property got a steal, even in the current economy."

Real estate in Palo Alto, one of the most expensive cities in Silicon Valley, has continued to escalate in price. According to a June Redfin report, prices were up 15.6% year-over-year with a median price of $3.6 million. While sales were down 22%, homes did sell after just 14 days on the market. The area is still highly desirable and homes like the McNealy mansion are outliers because of their size and scale.

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Homes at the ultrahigh end of the market usually take much longer to sell because the pool of buyers is much smaller and the homes are often highly customized to the owner. Kanye West recently found a buyer for his Malibu, CA beachside home after taking $14 million off the price tag. Realtor.com recently rounded up some high-profile homes in California that have seen major list price reductions. Casino mogul Steve Wynn has knocked $60 million off the price of his Beverly Hills home and still hasn't found a buyer. Rick and Kathy Hilton had to cut $30 million off the price of their Bel-Air mansion before it sold.

Story continues

Not all of the data is negative and plenty of active, wealthy buyers remain. A recent report from Savills revealed that U.S. buyers are snapping up luxury real estate in Southern Europe. Real estate appraiser Miller Samuel and brokerage Douglas Elliman predict that 2024 will be a record breaker for extremely expensive homes. The U.S. has already had six home sales for $100 million or more this year including a New York City penthouse that sold for $115 million. A mansion in Palm Beach, FL sold for $152 million. "It's a substantial uptick in the pace of sales, something we're not seeing at all in the broader housing market," said Jonathan Miller, CEO of Miller Samuel.

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This article Billionaire Sells His Home For A 65% Discount. Is The Ultra Luxury Real Estate Market In Trouble? originally appeared on Benzinga.com
With Tim Walz joining Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris on the campaign trail as her newly selected running mate, critics are blasting the Minnesota governor for what they claim was his failure to prevent a massive COVID-19 fraud scheme that has ensnared the state government.

According to federal charges filed over the past couple of years, at least 70 people were part of a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy that exploited two federally-funded nutrition programs to fraudulently obtain more than $250 million in one of the largest COVID-era fraud schemes anywhere in the nation.

The defendants allegedly used a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization called Feeding Our Future to avoid tough scrutiny from the Minnesota Department of Education, which was supposed to be conducting oversight of the programs.

MORE: Harris officially names Tim Walz as vice presidential running mate

On Tuesday, shortly after Walz was announced as Harris' running mate, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune newspaper published a story saying the case was one of the leading "vulnerabilities for Walz." By then, the pro-Trump group MAGA Inc. had already blasted out an email calling Walz "an incompetent liberal" for, among other things, "allow[ing] one of the largest fraud schemes to happen under his watch."

"Governor Walz and the people he directly hired and oversaw lost half a billion dollars to fraud in a few short years as governor," Joe Teirab, a pro-Trump Republican and former federal prosecutor running for Congress in the Minneapolis suburbs, posted to X on Monday night, just hours before Harris picked Walz. "Imagine fraud at that scale nationwide."

So far, more than 20 people have pleaded guilty or been convicted for their roles in the fraud scheme. None have been sentenced yet. Two of those charged were found not guilty, and most are still awaiting trial.

"Defendants falsified documents, they lied, and they fraudulently claimed to be feeding millions of meals to children in Minnesota during COVID," Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson said at a press conference in June, after the first trial in the case concluded. "This conduct was not just criminal. It was depraved, and brazen."

PHOTO: In this Nov. 18, 2020, file photo, Governor Tim Walz spoke to Minnesotans from the Governors Reception room at the State Capitol, to discuss the latest steps in his response to COVID-19. (Glen Stubbe/Minneapolis Star Tribune via Getty Images, FILE)

But it may have also been preventable, according to a state audit released in June.

"[T]he failures we highlight in this report are symptoms of a department that was ill-prepared to respond to the issues it encountered with Feeding Our Future," said the 103-page report, detailing the findings of a limited "special review" by Minnesota's Office of the Legislative Auditor.

The state agency not only "failed to act on warnings signs known to the department prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and prior to the start of the alleged fraud," but its "actions and inactions created opportunities for fraud," the auditor said.

The report said that while officials inside the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) had at times expressed concerns about the nonprofit, they felt hamstrung in acting on their concerns due to "operational challenges" during the pandemic, including limited ability to visit sites in person, and due to a "litigation and public relations campaign" from Feeding Our Future that included allegations of discrimination.

"While we acknowledge these factors created challenges for the department, we also believe MDE could have taken more decisive action sooner in its relationship with Feeding Our Future," the audit report said.

According to the report, after laundering tens of millions of dollars, the fraudsters allegedly used shell companies to buy luxury cars, boats and jewelry, to travel and pay off debts, and to purchase properties in Minnesota and around the world.

After the report's release, Walz said his administration can always "do better," and said, "We certainly take responsibility" for any failures that took place.

The report, which hardly mentions the governor at all, does not find any specific fault with Walz or his immediate office. But Teirab and other critics say Walz still deserves at least some of the blame for the massive fraud.

"He owns what happens within his administration," said Jim Schultz, a Minnesota business advocate and outspoken Republican who two years ago narrowly lost a race to become the state's next attorney general.

"There was this massive fraud under his watch," Schultz told ABC News on Tuesday. "To this day, he has never fired anybody, nobody's been rebuked."

Walz has said there have been leadership changes within state government, including at MDE, since the fraud occurred.

MORE: Charges announced over alleged $120K bribe attempt during pandemic relief fraud trial

Teirab, who says he "helped investigate and prosecute the Feed Our Future fraudsters" when he was still a prosecutor at the U.S. attorney's office in Minnesota several years ago, wrote on X last week, "Tim Walz was asleep at the wheel, allowing a quarter-BILLION in fraud."

A few weeks after five of the defendants were convicted of federal fraud charges in June, the Justice Department indicted five individuals for allegedly trying to bribe a member of the jury in the midst of deliberations, saying they offered the jury member $120,000 in exchange for a not guilty verdict.

One of those who allegedly took part in the bribery scheme was one of the defendants acquitted during the trial.

The Feeding Our Future case is not the only fraud scheme that has impacted Walz's administration.

In June, another audit found that a second state agency failed to adequately oversee a program to pay frontline workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Auditors reportedly estimated that more than $200 million may have been paid to people committing fraud or otherwise ineligible to receive payments from the program.

"This wasn't malfeasance," Walz said in response to both audits in June, according to Minneapolis-St. Paul ABC News affiliate KSTP-TV . "Both of these cases, there's not a single state employee that was implicated doing anything that was illegal. They simply didn't do as much due diligence as they should have."

According to Teirab's campaign, a number of Medicaid-related programs have also suffered from fraud and waste under Walz.

A spokesperson for the Harris-Walz campaign did not respond to a request for comment from ABC News.

Critics blast new VP nominee Tim Walz for 'massive' COVID-19 fraud 'under his watch' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson and wife Yolanda Hill Robinson (Photo: Screenshot from Mark Robinson for Governor Campaign ad "Unscripted")

Last week, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson released a campaign ad saying he supports North Carolinas law banning abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy and backs common sense exceptions for cases involving rape, incest and risk to the life of the mother, marking a shift from his previous, uncompromising views and statements on the issue.

However, Democrats say they are not buying it, calling it a ploy by the GOP nominee to appear less extreme as the fall election approaches.

Anderson Clayton

If this werent an election year, does anyone seriously believe that Mark Robinson wouldnt still be pushing for a total abortion ban that he was just [pushing] under a year ago? asked Anderson Clayton, the North Carolina Democratic Party chair, during a virtual press conference Wednesday morning.

In a 2018 Facebook post, Robinson called abortion genocide. Robinson has also previously said there is no compromise on abortion, and that it makes no difference to me why or how that child ended up in that womb.

And earlier this year, he told a gathering in Pitt County that he wanted to see abortion banned completely. Weve got to do it that same way they rolled it forward, weve got to do it the same way with rolling it back. Weve got it down to 12 weeks. The next goal is to get it down to six, and then just keep moving from there.

No desperate campaign ad changes the fact that our rights are on the line this year and on the ballot box in November, Clayton said.

Last weeks ad, titled Unscripted, begins with Robinson detailing he and his wife Yolandas joint decision for her to have an abortion 30 years ago prior to their marriage.

It was like this solid pain between us that we never spoke of, Robinson says in the ad, sitting beside his wife as they hold hands.

Its something that stays with you forever, she says.

North Carolinas law, Robinson says, gives help to mothers and stops cruel late-term abortions.

When Im governor, mothers in need will be supported, he says.

Ryan Stitzlein of Reproductive Freedom for All, an abortion rights group supporting Robinsons Democratic opponent, Attorney General Josh Stein, also questioned Robinsons intentions.

No matter how Mark Robinson tries to spin it, the truth is, he would sign a total abortion ban into law here in North Carolina, said Stitzlein, who is also vice president of political and government relations.

If he has the chance to do it. He knows exactly how unpopular that is, and that is the only reason why hes trying to cover this up North Carolinians should not be fooled, said Stitzlein.
Carl Marlinga | Ken Coleman

Former Judge Carl Marlinga snagged the Democratic nomination for Michigans 10th Congressional District after beating out three other candidates in the primary election Tuesday.

He will go up against incumbent U.S. Rep. John James (R-Shelby Twp.) in the November general election. The race will be a rematch of the November 2022 election, where James beat Marlinga by just 1,600 votes in the 10th District.

Marlinga ran against gun reform advocate Emily Busch, State Education Board Member Tiffany Tilley and financial planner Diane Young.

The Associated Press called the race after midnight Wednesday. With about 37% of returns in, Marlinga had about 48% of the vote in the four-way race, according to unofficial returns.

Young was in second with 26%, followed by Busch with 14% and Tilley with 13%.

The district stretches through Rochester, Rochester Hills and southern Macomb County in Southeast Michigan.

Macomb County elected Marlinga from 1985 through 2004 to serve as prosecutor. He then worked as a judge on the Macomb County Probate Court and on the 16th Judicial Circuit Court from 2013 through 2022. In his primary campaign, he banked on constituents remembering his track record in the county and trusting him to represent them on a national level.

Marlinga told the Advance before the primary election that criminal justice reform, protections for reproductive care, LGBTQ+ rights and environmental protections were important policy issues he would work on in Washington D.C.

During his primary campaign, Busch criticized Marlingas track record as prosecutor. In 1998, he blocked a 12-year-old girl, who had been sexually assaulted by her brother, from getting a late-term abortion as prosecutor. He has been outspoken in his support for restoring abortion protections nationwide since starting his bids for the House, however.

Democratic lawmakers are looking to flip GOP-held seats in the House in November. If Marlinga wins in the fall, Democrats will be closer to having a majority in the House and be able to more easily pass progressive policy, like national abortion protections.

Marlinga says he plans to keep connecting with constituents in the district and hopes the larger turnout expected from a presidential election topping the ticket will give him a win in his second bid against James.

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Crystal Quade greets supporters in Springfield after winning the Democratic nomination for Missouri Governor (Allison Kite/Missouri Independent).

SPRINGFIELD  Southwest Missouri native and House Democratic Leader Crystal Quade won her partys nomination for governor Tuesday in a primary race she said shows the power of grassroots campaigning.

Quade, who has represented Springfield in the Missouri House for eight years, defeated Mike Hamra, a businessman also from Springfield. Shell face Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe in the general election in November in a state that hasnt elected a Democrat to statewide office since 2018.

The crowd at Quades watch party at Big Mommas Coffee & Espresso Bar let out a cheer just before 9:45 p.m. when the Associated Press called the race in her favor. She took the stage as her supporters chanted, Crystal.

Tonights results show us that, regardless of party, regardless of where folks live in the state of Missouri, they want something different, Quade said.

She added: We are ready for a governor who gets rid of partisan politics and stops the infighting and the flamethrowers and the disgusting TV ads and puts Missouri people first, Quade said.

As a kid who grew up in rural southwest Missouri, winning the Democratic nomination for governor meant a lot, Quade told supporters. In an interview, she said her humble background as the daughter of a waitress and a factory worker in rural southwest Missouri made her an ideal candidate for Missouri governor.

Quade was the first in her family to graduate high school and graduated from Missouri State University in 2008 with a degree in social work. She worked for former U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill as a legislative aid as her first foray into politics.

She said its important to have elected leaders who understand the debate between paying your mortgage or your utility bill or who have struggled to afford childcare.

These are real issues that are deeply impacting every Missourian regardless of where theyre from, Quade said, and I think its so deeply important that we elect leaders who understand that.

If Quade wins in November, she said she would put issues like affordable child care and health care at the forefront along with making sure that every single person in this state  regardless of who they are or where theyre from  can thrive and live and be happy to live in the state of Missouri.

And in November, Quade said Missouri voters will take our rights back, referring to the proposed constitutional amendment legalizing abortion that will likely appear on voters general election ballots.

Quade believes the ballot question on abortion will help her campaign overcome Missouris tilt toward the Republican Party over the last two decades.

Since June 2022, nearly every abortion has been illegal in the state with the exception of medical emergencies.

Hamra released a statement endorsing Quade shortly after the race was called. He said Missouri has a bright future but we must move beyond the dysfunctional politics in Jefferson City.

This doesnt end with one campaign or one election, he said. Missouris future is on the line in November, and we must all work together to restore abortion rights and make sure Crystal Quade is Missouris next governor.

Quades distaste for divisive politics was echoed by Grant Haverly, 40, who voted for her Tuesday evening at Woodland Heights Presbyterian Church in Springfield. He said fiery messaging and advertising werent helpful in politics. He had stopped paying attention to the onslaught of political ads as the primary election drew near.

Its like noise in the background that you dont even hear anymore, he said.

Haverly said Quades service as a Missouri House member from Springfield drew him to her campaign. He said shes someone I can relate to and know a little bit more about.

Rebecca Yang, 28, cast her vote at the Kansas City Urban Youth Academy Tuesday. Before she voted, Yang made a list of candidates positions on health care access, education and community health.

A few months ago, Yang, who is a medical resident in the area, went to the Missouri Capitol with her colleagues to sit in on committee hearings and meet with lawmakers.

What was very surprising to us was that a lot of them didnt seem to be informed on a lot of the issues, especially health care issues.

She said it was eye-opening how politics can affect her industry and communities she serves.

When it comes to womens rights, especially when it comes to abortion issues, I think there are a lot of misunderstandings.

Nina Hampton of Columbia took a Democratic ballot at American Legion Post 202 and voted for Quade for governor.

Abortion rights is an important issue for Hampton.

I am in favor of womens rights to decide what to do with their own bodies, she said.

John Elder of Columbia also voted for Quade.

I just felt she had the overall experience, Elder said, and the qualifications.

The Independents Rebecca Rivas contributed to this story.
Marty Campbell and Kent Keel were the top vote-getters in Tuesdays primary to replace Mike Lonergan as Pierce County assessor-treasurer.

As of 8:02 p.m., with 700 of 732 precincts reporting, Campbell, a Pierce County Council member, leads the race with 40.52% of the vote. Keel, a former University Place School Board and City Council member, is second with 31.89% of the vote.

The nonpartisan position is currently held by Lonergan, who has served in the position since 2013. He endorsed his son, Joe Lonergan, to take over, but the younger Lonergan trailed Tuesday with 27.2% of the vote.

The top two advance to the Nov. 5 general election.

Prior to joining the Pierce County Council in 2019, Campbell served on the Tacoma City Council from 2010-2017, was Tacoma deputy mayor in 2013 and is a local small business entrepreneur. He is currently vice chair of the County Council and chairs the Economic and Infrastructure Development Committee, Select Committee on Homelessness and Performance Audit Committee.

Keel completed his third term on the University Place City Council at the end of 2023 after serving on the council since 2012. He served as the board director of the University Place School District between 2001-2011 and was twice elected board president. Keel is a former Pierce Transit chair, Sound Transit chair and Association of Washington Cities president. He is also the former owner of a technology consulting business, process re-engineering, project management and technology strategic planning to the healthcare, retail, education, law enforcement and defense industries around the U.S.

Lonergan served on the South End Neighorhood Council for six years before he was elected to represent District 5 on the Tacoma City Council in 2009 until 2017. Lonergan served on the Pierce County Regional Council for eight years, including two as chair, and was a founding member of the South Sound 911 Policy Board, where he served as vice-chair and chair as well.

Learn more about how to register to vote, who your candidates will be and where your nearest ballot box is online at the Pierce County Elections website.
A Tesla Cybertruck veered off a Texas road and crashed into a culvert, bursting into flames and killing the driver, KHOU 11 Houston reported. It appears to be the first fatality involving Tesla's new electric pickup and has triggered a probe by the NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration), according to Reuters. The driver has not yet been identified.

It's not clear what caused the accident, but it wasn't related to Tesla's Autopilot as the Cybertruck has yet to gain that feature. Video from the scene shows that the vehicle was nearly completely consumed by the fire, which thwarted identification of the vehicle and driver, Texas state troopers said.

The first reported Cybertruck accident happened late last year near Palo Alto, with no injuries and little damage reported. Around 15,000 vehicles have now been sold, so the number of accident reports has ramped up of late. Tesla has issued four recalls for the vehicle, including one that could result in a stuck accelerator pedal.

Since its launch in November 2023, the Cybertruck has been criticized for poor build quality, malfunctions, and weird design decisions like "guillotine" body panels deemed unsafe for children and others. It's also come under fire for getting stuck easily and not performing well off road, in one case being outclassed by an ancient French Citroen C15.
(Bloomberg) -- Cyprus has received requests from more than 10 nations to help with an emergency evacuation of their citizens from Lebanon if the conflict in the Middle East escalates, according to the countrys president.

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The eastern Mediterranean nation and European Union member  which is about 25 minutes by air from Lebanon  stands ready to trigger such an evacuation plan, Nikos Christodoulides said Wednesday in an interview with Bloomberg Television. He said some countries had already moved diplomatic staff to Cyprus and cited the countrys previous experience in taking in people fleeing the Israel-Hezbollah war in 2006.

We have excellent relations with all interested parties in the region, Christodoulides said, adding that Cyprus is seen as an honest broker.

Cyprus is already dealing with an increase in the number of refugees arriving on the island.

It has also faced threats from militant group Hezbollah, which has pledged to punish the government in Nicosia if it provides support to Israels war effort.

The country would be considered part of the war if Israel used Cypriot airports and bases in an attack on Lebanon, Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah said in June.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last month accused Israel of using Cyprus as a base in its war against Hamas, warning of the risk of a wider war.

Christodoulides said Wednesday that such rhetoric is not helpful and creates more problems.

What we need to concentrate on is how we resume the negotiations for the solution of the Palestinian issue, he added. Its the only way to solve the problem in the region.

Christodoulides said this month he had accepted an invitation to a United Nations-brokered gathering in New York next Tuesday that will attempt to restart talks on reunification of the island, which has been effectively divided for more than six decades.

Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar rejected the proposed meeting, saying in a written statement that there is no common ground for the resumption of negotiations on the Cyprus issue and no need to meet in a tripartite or any other format.

Cyprus reunification on the basis of a bi-zonal federation is of course possible, Christodoulides told Bloomberg TV. The status quo in Cyprus of the last 50 years is not an option for us. It cant be the future for Cyprus and well do whatever is necessary to resume substantial negotiations to reach a settlement.

An island less than half the size of New Jersey, Cyprus was split in 1963 when fighting erupted between its two main Greek and Turkish-speaking ethnic groups.

It was fully divided in 1974 after Turkey captured the northern third of the island with the aim of protecting minority Turkish Cypriots. That followed an Athens-backed coup by supporters of union of the whole island with Greece, then ruled by a military junta.

The capital Nicosia is Europes only divided city while a UN-patrolled buffer zone runs across the island separating the two sides.

Numerous UN-led efforts have failed over the decades to reunify the eastern Mediterranean nation on the basis of a bi-zonal federation.

I see a win-win situation from the resumption of the talks and the solution of the Cyprus problem together with Turkey coming closer to the European Union, Christodoulides said.

The most recent reunification attempt came in 2017, when officials from Turkey, Greece and the UK  guarantor powers under an agreement that ended British colonial rule in Cyprus  joined the Greek- and Turkish-Cypriot leaders in Switzerland for talks.

Cyprus, Greece and the UK continue to support a solution based on a bi-zonal federation, while Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot administration favor the creation of two separate states.

Its not on the table, Christodoulides said regarding Turkeys position. No other option is possible for solution of the Cyprus problem.

--With assistance from Anna Edwards, Kriti Gupta and Guy Johnson.

(Updates with comments on reunification starting in 10th paragraph)

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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE)  School bus drivers are urging motorists to be cautious as the school year begins for many East Tennessee school districts.

When a school bus is preparing to stop, its lights will begin flashing, and the bus will deploy a stop sign. Despite these indicators, bus driver Joshua Shumate said people drive around stopped buses all too often.

Holston Hills Road getting needed repairs as development in the area continues

On a daily basis, youll see it. Youll see them run our reds or if theyre impatient enough, they will go around us in the oncoming lane, he said.

In 2022, a Knoxville resident caught two different instances of cars illegally passing a school bus on camera, within a few days of each other.

Shumate said its important to pay attention at all times.

Because you dont always know where the students are coming from. You cant see if theyre crossing either way. In the mornings, we have students that have to cross. If theyre coming from this side and theyre walking out and you decide you want to run our stop sign, you could easily hit them, he said.

Courtesy of KPD.

Cars traveling behind a bus or on the opposite side of the road are required to stop when a bus deploys its stop sign. The only exception is when youre on the opposite side of a highway with a median or barrier, but even then its important to be cautious.

Liz Peterson works for Henry Bus Lines and Little Bus Co. She said one of their buses was rear-ended earlier this week. Thankfully, there were no children on board.

Tennessee choice lanes to have minimum speed limits, prices that vary based on traffic

Its kind of alarming how often were witnessing cars just blatantly disregarding stop signs. Thankfully, Ive never had any very close calls, Peterson said. But we have had some drivers who would be having students crossing the road and a car just goes flying by.

Though bus drivers are trained to look for cars before motioning a child across the road, Peterson said simply being patient can prevent a tragedy.

Were trained to watch traffic and make sure that cars are stopping, but sometimes a kid will run out. Ive even had students where before the stop sign is out, they see the bus and theyre running out in the road, she said.

 See more top stories on WATE.com

Its a thing that were trying to teach the kids how to safely wait for the sign from the driver to come on out. But when you decide to ignore those lights and youre passing, its a very high likelihood that there could be a student in the road that you could hit.

If you dont stop, you could face criminal charges. Just last year, a seven-year-old Knox County student was hit by a car while trying to board a school bus. The driver of that car was charged with misdemeanor reckless driving and a citation for disregarding school bus lights.

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Data: More money is getting to Illinois schools in need

Ill. (WTVO)  New data from the Illinois State Board of Education shows more money has been getting to the states neediest schools.

Illinois is directing $8.6 billion to evidence-based funding in the coming years. EBF focuses money on districts with the least resources.

In the 8 years since EBF started, districts in need are down from 430 to just 49.

This year every district will receive at least what it got last year, with an additional $300 million to be shared.

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Ann Miller, 78, (not pictured) lives in a small town in Washington with her dog. She struggles to get by on her Social Security income. SolStock / Getty Images

Ann Miller, 78, is living on $1,800 monthly from Social Security.

With no savings or familial support, Miller struggles to pay rent and afford food.

Many older adults face similar financial challenges and lack sufficient retirement savings.

Ann Miller starts her day around 6 a.m. She goes for an early walk, does laundry, and puts breakfast in a bowl for her dog, Lizzy Rocket  usually some rice and bacon scraps. Sometimes she'll flip through a local newspaper for the week's grocery coupons.

The 78-year-old lives on a ranch in Ellensburg, Washington, a town about 100 miles northwest of Seattle. Her small, lofted apartment sits over a hay barn. It gets a little dusty, but it feels like home, she said.

Miller lives on about $1,800 a month in Social Security income, according to documents viewed by Business Insider. She doesn't have any savings and it can be a challenge for her to afford basic necessities: rent, groceries, and enough gas to drive her 2002 pickup truck.

Miller, who chose to use her maiden name due to privacy concerns, said her lifestyle has gone from "riches to rags." She's been married twice before  to a professional athlete and politician  but has been single since 2017. While Miller has a college degree and briefly worked in modeling and pharmaceuticals, her husbands were the sole income earners in her household for most of her adult life. She didn't have robust savings of her own, and drained what she did have a few years ago to repair her truck.

Since she began receiving Social Security several years ago, Miller has been doing her best to live on a fixed income.

"I don't go out and buy things," she said. "When things are low, I just make do with what I have."

Millions of older adults are retiring without the savings or assets to support themselves. The Census Bureau's Current Population Survey found that more than half of Americans over 65 had an annual income of $30,000 or less  a figure far lower than the estimated $1.5 million it takes to comfortably retire in the US.

Some retirees have told BI that they feel financially confident due to strong corporate 401(k)s, large savings nest eggs, and well-placed investments. But others  like Miller  say they're living check to check on Social Security or have been forced to forgo retirement to make ends meet.

Without close friends or relatives, Miller worries about what will happen when she can no longer maintain her physical independence.

"What kind of plan can I make when I have no spare money and I don't have any living relatives?" she said. "What am I going to do?"

Story continues

Miller struggles to pay bills but chooses not to apply for government assistance

Seven years ago, shortly after her second divorce, Miller moved to her barn loft on the ranch. She likes the space  she said it costs her a little over $1,000 a month  but the ranch has a new owner and she expects they will require her to move soon. Miller said the owner plans to give the loft to one of his family members. But she's not sure she can afford to live anywhere else: The median rent in the area is over $1,700 a month.

Once Miller pays for her housing, utilities, cellphone, and credit card debt bills, she barely has enough money left over for food.

On a good month, Miller said she has $75 to spend at the grocery store. She fills her basket with a caseload of canned tomatoes, 10 bags of frozen vegetables, and five bags of frozen fish. If there are any sales or discounted items, she will buy those too. Ideally, the food will last her a full 30 days, with some ingredients left over for the hard months  the ones when she doesn't have any money to afford meals.

Despite being on a tight budget, Miller always makes sure Lizzy Rocket has everything she needs. Nearly every grocery item Miller buys is something that's also safe for Lizzy to eat. The French Briard rescue is "her constant companion," and she "tries not to be lonely."

Miller said many of her friends have faded away over the years because she couldn't afford to travel with them or meet up at restaurants for dinner. She occasionally visits with neighbors, but she hasn't told most people in her life about her financial situation.

At this point, Miller has decided not to apply for any forms of government assistance like SNAP or Medicaid. She said she can afford most of the healthcare she needs through Medicare, the federal health insurance that's typically attached to Social Security. There's also a lot of stigma attached to getting help, she said.

Miller feels uncertain about her future, but she does find comfort in her routine. She knows Lizzy Rocket will wake her up just after 6 a.m. tomorrow morning. They will go on a walk around the ranch, then Miller will tidy her loft and sit down to read the newspaper or write her budget for the week.

"I've tried not to go backward," she said. "I just figure this is a new adventure."

Are you living on a fixed Social Security income? How have you made the decision to enroll in Social Security early or late? If so, reach out to this reporter at allisonkelly@businessinsider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Tressa Honie, daughter of death row inmate Taberon Honie, looks on during an interview Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near the Utah State Correctional Facility, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  Tressa Honie is caught between anger and grief in the lead-up to Utahs first execution since 2010. Thats because her father is the person set to die by lethal injection, and her maternal grandmother is the person he brutally murdered in 1998.

The heinous intrafamilial crime has placed a strain on her relationships for more than two decades as shes kept in touch with her father in prison while her mother's family has fought relentlessly for him to be put to death.

In her final 48 hours visiting Taberon Dave Honie before his execution, set for Thursday shortly after midnight, Tressa is grappling with how to carry out his dying wish: for her to move on and heal.

My mom's side, they can heal together," she said in an interview. I'm happy you guys are going to get this closure, this justice, but where does that leave me? I feel like I have to heal alone.

Tressa left the Utah state prison in a daze Tuesday evening as it hit her that she would only have one more day with her father, who she credits as her most supportive parent after drug use drove a wedge between her and her mother. As the 27-year-old prepares to grieve her father, she's also grieving the life she could have had if his crimes hadn't trapped her family in a cycle of self-destruction and left them mourning the matriarch she believes could have kept them all in line.

Honie, one of six death row inmates in Utah, was convicted of aggravated murder for the July 1998 death of his girlfriends mother, Claudia Benn. He was 22 when he broke into Benns house in Cedar City, the tribal headquarters of the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, after a day of heavy drinking and drug use. He repeatedly slashed Benn's throat and stabbed other parts of her body. The judge who sentenced him to death also found that Honie had sexually abused one of Benn's grandchildren who was in the house with a then 2-year-old Tressa at the time of the murder.

Utahs execution is scheduled to occur a few hours after one in Texas, where a man described by his lawyers as intellectually disabled was executed for strangling and trying to rape a woman who went jogging near her Houston home more than 27 years ago.

Honie, now 48, told Tressa he has come to terms with his fate, she said.

The father and daughter spent their final days talking about anything but his crimes, sharing early childhood memories and laughing about how neither has a favorite color. After years of resentment, she's ready to replace some of the anger she's held for her father with reminders of his humanity.

But their meetings haven't always been so cordial. Tressa grew up knowing her father was behind bars but didn't know why until she approached him at 14, looking for answers. Honie struggled to look at her as he explained some of what he had done and told her where she could find the court records, she recalled.

When I did find out fully why he was in prison or on death row, I thought, Well, maybe if I wasnt born, this wouldn't have happened,' Tressa said. I did kind of blame myself. I didn't know how to cope.

Years of drug abuse followed, distancing Tressa from family members who tried to extend support while grieving Benn, who they described as a pillar in their family and community. Benn was a tribal council member, substance abuse counselor and caregiver for her children and grandchildren.

Tressa has few memories of her grandmother, but she's found herself grieving the absence of a strong maternal role model.

Hearing the type of woman my grandmother was, I would've loved that, she said.

Her father also started using drugs such as cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine at a young age. Honie's attorneys testified about his own childhood trauma from parents who abused alcohol. They and others on the Hopi Indian Reservation where he grew up had been placed in government boarding schools that were often abusive and stripped Indigenous children of their culture as part of assimilation efforts.

Now, Tressa is determined to break that cycle of generational trauma.

She is in recovery, raising a child of her own and has developed some empathy for her father after her own addiction struggle. Honie has said he wasnt in his right mind when he killed Benn and doesnt remember much about the murder.

Trevia Wall, Benns niece, said she's had an on-and-off relationship with Tressa over the years but has tried to offer her extra support leading up to her fathers death. Wall was among those who testified in favor of Honies execution  an outcome she deemed necessary to get justice for her aunt. The two cousins embraced and cried together after the last hearing.

Its bittersweet, Wall said in an interview. Now we can finally move forward, we can finally heal, but its bitter because I hurt for my cousin, his daughter. He put her in the middle, and she was torn between her father and her grandmother.

Randall Benn, another cousin who supported the family's push to execute Honie, said he knows it will close a painful chapter in his life but will open a new one for Tressa. He said he and other family members will be waiting with open arms whenever shes ready.

Even though Tressa had urged the parole board to commute her father's death sentence, she plans to witness his execution. About a dozen family members are expected to attend.

I just want to be there to the end," she said, "for me and him.
Fire and rescue workers are on the scene moments after a blast at the U.S. Embassy in the Kenyan capital early August 7, 1998, killed more than 40 people. Moments later, a second bomb exploded outside the U.S. Embassy in Dar Es Salam, Tanzania. UPI File Photo

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- On this date in history:

In 1782, the Order of the Purple Heart was established by Gen. George Washington to honor Americans who fought in the Revolutionary War.

In 1942, U.S. Marines launched America's first offensive in World War II, landing on the Pacific island of Guadalcanal.

In 1963, Jacqueline Kennedy becomes first sitting U.S. first lady to give birth since Frances Folsom Cleveland in 1897. President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy's premature son, Patrick Bouvier Kennedy, died two days later.

UPI File Photo

San Francisco Giants Barry Bonds is mobbed by teammates after hitting his 756th career home run, passing Hank Aaron for the all-time home run record against the Washington Nationals at AT&T Park in San Francisco on August 7, 2007. File Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI

In 1998, terrorists' bombs detonated within minutes of each other outside of U.S. embassy buildings in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, killing 224 people. Authorities estimated another 4,000 were wounded.

In 2001, Uribe Velez was sworn in as president of Colombia in ceremonies interrupted by rebel shelling that killed 15 people and injured 60.

On August 7, 2012, Jared Lee Loughner pleaded guilty to murder and attempted murder in Tucson shootings that killed six people and wounded 13, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Under his plea agreement, Loughner is imprisoned for life without parole and no opportunity to appeal. File Photo courtesy U.S. Marshals Service

File Photo by Keizo Mori/UPI

In 2005, Peter Jennings, anchor and senior editor of ABC News World News Tonight, who said in April he had lung cancer, died at his New York home at age 67.

On August 7, 1782, the Order of the Purple Heart was established by Gen. George Washington to honor Americans who fought in the Revolutionary War. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

In 2007, Barry Bonds hit his 756th major league home run, breaking the record set by Hank Aaron. Bonds ended his career just under seven weeks later with a total of 762 homers.

In 2008, Georgian troops laid siege to the capital of the breakaway region of South Ossetia, sparking the five-day Russo-Georgian War, which left more than 300 dead.

On August 7, 2005, Peter Jennings, anchor and senior editor of ABC News World News Tonight, who said in April he had lung cancer, died at his New York home at age 67. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI

In 2012, Jared Lee Loughner pleaded guilty to murder and attempted murder in Tucson shootings that killed six people and wounded 13, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Under his plea agreement, Loughner is imprisoned for life without parole and no opportunity to appeal.

In 2023, the American Red Cross announced plans to change its donor screening process to allow gay and bisexual men to donate blood under new FDA rules.

File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI
Dayton Fire to recognize two in promotion ceremony

Dayton Fire to recognize two in promotion ceremony

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  The Dayton Fire Department will formally promote two of their own at a ceremony at City Hall.

URS Rubber Duck Regatta kicks off in Dayton

On Monday, Aug. 12 Firefighter/Paramedic Daniel Stegeman will be promoted to lieutenant. Stegeman, a graduate of the University of Dayton, has been with the DFD since 2013, serving on two stations (13 and 4) since that time.

He has held firefighter, paramedic, and fire safety inspector certifications with the State of Ohio as well as advanced training and certifications in technical rescue disciplines.

Derrick Wilcox, a lieutenant with the DFD, was informally promoted last month, but will be formally promoted at Mondays ceremony as well.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
DENVER (KDVR)  One person was killed in a motorcycle crash in Northglenn Wednesday morning, shutting down 120th Avenue.

At around 2:43 a.m., the Northglenn Police Department said eastbound 120th Avenue was closed at Interstate 25 while police investigated a deadly motorcycle crash. Few details were released about the crash, and it is unclear how many vehicles were involved and if anyone else was injured.

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Northglenn police said the closure was expected to last through the morning commute as they continued to investigate.

See the latest traffic conditions in Denver on FOX31

Drivers were asked to find alternate routes or be prepared for delays. The roadway has since reopened.

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Dealer faces up to 2 decades in prison for selling fentanyl that caused Rockland deaths

WHITE PLAINS  A 25-year-old Congers drug dealer faces up to two decades in federal prison for selling the deadly drug fentanyl that caused three deaths in Rockland County, prosecutors said.

Justin Turnick pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court on Tuesday to one count of conspiring to distribute fentanyl.

Under a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, Turnick faces 15.6 to 19.5 years in prison and a fine ranging from $40,000 to $5 million. The sentencing range of 188 to 233 months and the fine is based on federal sentencing guidelines. U.S. District Court Judge Philip Halpern, who accepted the plea agreement, will determine the sentence on Feb. 18, 2025.

Fentanyl and other drugs seized during federal investigation of Justin Turnick of Congers.

Country faces fentanyl and opioid use crisis

Turnick's guilty plea comes amid a crisis involving fentanyl and opioid use, with 70 overdose deaths reported in Rockland in 2021, authorities said. He was charged with two counts of distributing the poisonous drug in July 2023.

Fentanyl is one of the foremost crises the United States faces today, as a leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 49," U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said last year. "The fentanyl epidemic is lethally perpetuated by, among others, dealers like Justin Turnick who allegedly knowingly sell a drug that can be fatal to their customers."

Turnick, who has a New York state conviction for weapons possession on his criminal record, admitted that the fentanyl he sold between February 2020 and April 2022 caused the deaths of three people and overdoses of three others, prosecutors said. The victims were between the ages of 19 and 24.

The federal grand jury indictment had charged Turnick with distributing narcotics to Rockland residents, including his friends, partners, and acquaintances. In particular, Turnick was accused of knowingly distributing what he referred to as "fenti" pills or "fake percs," among other narcotics. He packaged the deadly and highly potent opioid into pills, pure fentanyl, and fentanyl-laced powder, according to the indictment.

Turnick distributed pills that he told his customers were manufactured pharmaceuticals but he knew were pure fentanyl or fentanyl-laced narcotics, according to the indictment. He knowingly distributed pure fentanyl or fentanyl-laced powder.

Justin Turnicks actions didnt just facilitate addiction  they fueled a crisis that claimed lives and inflicted unimaginable suffering," Williams said Tuesday in a news release. "As we move forward, this office remains resolute in its mission to combat the fentanyl epidemic and seek justice for the families and individuals affected by these deadly substances.

The potency of fentanyl has led the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration to "rename overdoses to poisonings for one simple reason  drug traffickers are intentionally lacing all drugs with fentanyl, making todays street drugs more lethal than ever," DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III has said.

Prosecutors reach plea agreement

Turnick's plea to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl carried a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years.

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As part of his guilty plea, Turnick agreed that the substances he conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute resulted in the fatal fentanyl poisonings of Gustaf Olsen, Jonathan Shashoua, and Ione Koenig, and the non-fatal fentanyl poisonings of a female victim, a male victim, and Ione Koenig.

Williams praised the investigative work of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Clarkstown Police Department, and the Rockland Sheriffs Office. He noted the assistance of the Ramapo Police Department, the Westchester County Police Department, the Yonkers Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriffs Department, and the Rockland County District Attorneys Office.

Steve Lieberman covers government, breaking news, courts, police, and investigations. Reach him at slieberm@lohud.com Twitter: @lohudlegal

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This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Dealer faces long sentence selling fentanyl linked to Rockland deaths
XENIA, Ohio (WDTN)  A man sentenced to death in 1996 is receiving a new trial.

According to our partners at the Xenia Daily Gazette, David Lee Myers was convicted for the death of Amanda Jo Maher. The incident became highly publicized.

Earlier this year, in February, a motion to vacate the death sentence was filed by Myers representation to the Greene County Common Pleas Court. The motion was filed after new DNA evidence was found, which Myers attorneys believe proves his innocence.

Greene Co. park restroom closed after vandalism

Following an evidentiary hearing, the sentence was vacated and a new trial was granted. Additional pre-trial proceedings will be scheduled at a later date.

The Greene County Prosecutors Office reportedly opposed the prior motions filed on Myers behalf.

Prosecutor David Hayes spoke to the Xenia Daily Gazette previously in regards to the case.

In my view, the evidence of David Lee Myers guilt is overwhelming. The Greene County Prosecutors Office is committed to defending the conviction and seeing that Myers pays the ultimate price for this vicious murder. We believe that the facts and the law are on our side, and we believe that the visiting judge hearing the case will see it the same way.

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RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  As Tropical Storm Debby makes it way through the Carolinas, state recreational water quality officials are advising the public to avoid swimming in coastal water even after the storm passes.

The North Carolina Department of Environmental quality is issuing the warning for beaches from Wright Memorial Bridge in Kitty Hawk south to the South Carolina state line.

Recent excess rain has caused flooding of streets, yards and housing that have resulted in some municipalities having to pump floodwaters into the ocean and sounds. As a result, the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program is advising that people avoid swimming near ocean outfalls, including the wet sand where the floodwater is pumped, even if no sign is posted.

Debby slightly stronger ahead of second landfall tonight

Severe weather events like tropical storms and hurricanes bring excessive amounts of rain, storm surge and cause extreme flooding. These conditions increase levels of harmful bacteria in our coastal waters that can cause illness, said Erin Bryan-Millush, manager of the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program. The sources of bacteria can vary and include failing septic systems, sewer line breaks and overflowing manholes.

While state officials do not have immediate laboratory confirmation that disease-causing organisms are in the water, storm impacts increase the chance that contamination is present. This increases the risk of adverse health effects from swimming in these waters.

Gov. Cooper activates 300+ soldiers, airmen as Debby moves in on NC

Residents and visitors should avoid swimming in these waters until testing indicates bacteria levels are within the states and U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys standards. Testing will begin as soon as conditions are safe, and areas are accessible.

The advisory will be lifted in part or in whole as test results become available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.
Debby tracker: See tropical storm's path as states brace for more rain, flooding

Heavy rainfall and conditions for flooding is expected to continue in multiple states along the East Coast through Thursday as Tropical Storm Debby continues to move through the region.

According to an advisory posted Wednesday by the National Hurricane Center, heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby across portions of eastern South Carolina and southeast North Carolina is expected to persist through Thursday, which could broaden the areas of "considerable flooding."

Flooding could occur in the Piedmont of the Carolinas, the area between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, as well as portions of Mid-Atlantic states and Vermont through Saturday morning, the National Hurricane Center says.

Conditions around Tropical Storm Debby will continue to spread along the southern Atlantic coast from South Carolina to North Carolina through Thursday. Tropical storm warnings and watches are in effect for some of those areas.

See damage left by Debby: Photos show flooded streets, downed trees after hurricane washes ashore

Forecasters warn of 'dangerous' storm surge

Tropical Storm Debby's path.

The National Hurricane Center also warned that a "dangerous" storm surge was possible along the South Carolina coast, from the South Santee River to Cape Fear.

The agency recommends that residents follow any advice from local officials.

Tropical Storm Debby tracker

If the map above is not loading on your screen, click here.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Debby tracker map: See tropical storm's path moving north
WASHINGTON (AP)  Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke for the first time Tuesday on his decision to throw out a plea deal for the men accused in al-Qaida's 2001 attacks, saying that the depth of American losses and sacrifice on 9/11 demand that the military commission trial goes ahead.

This wasn't a decision that I took lightly," Austin told reporters at an event with Australian officials in Annapolis, Maryland.

But I have long believed that the families of the victims, our service members, and the American public deserve the opportunity to see military commissions, commission trials carried out" in the 9/11 case, he said.

At the U.S. military commission in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, meanwhile, lawyers and the judge in the case of accused 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two other defendants who had also taken plea deals were still coming to terms with Austin's surprise order and its effect on efforts to resolve the more than 20-year-old case.

Mohammed and a total of four other defendants at Guantanamo are accused in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, using hijacked passenger jets, that killed nearly 3,000 people in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania. A fourth defendant did not agree to the plea agreement, and a fifth defendant last year was ruled mentally unfit to continue facing trial.

Legal complications, including profound questions over how much the men's torture while in CIA custody in the first years after their capture has tainted the evidence and the case itself, have helped drag out proceedings. The case remains in pre-trial hearings after more than a decade.

After about two years of plea negotiations, the Pentagon-appointed retired general overseeing the military commission last week approved a plea bargain struck by prosecutors and defense attorneys that would have spared Mohammed and the two others the risk of the death penalty, in return for their guilty pleas.

Families of 9/11 victims offered differing opinions, with some welcoming the resolution and others saying they wanted to see capital trials. Senior Republicans in Congress publicly lambasted the Biden administration for the plea bargain.

An order from Austin made public late Friday, in which he said he was revoking approval of the plea bargain and personally assuming that decision-making authority in the 9/11 case, upended the deal.

There's not a day that goes by when I don't think of 9/11 and the Americans that were murdered that day. Also those who died trying to save lives, and the troops and their families who gave so much for this country, said Austin, who commanded troops in Afghanistan in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks, and was awarded a Silver Star for his service as a commander during the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Some of the lawyers and civil-rights organizations involved in the Guantanamo Bay cases accuse Austin of bowing to political pressure in overturning the plea deal, and are challenging the legality of Austin's action.

Open hearings are scheduled to resume Wednesday for the first time since Austin's order, and may reveal the defense's response to the overriding of the plea bargain.
Defense contractors working on the Sentinel nuclear missile program have increased political spending in the past two years as the initiative to modernize intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) has soared in costs and attracted renewed criticism.

A report from the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft says the 11 contractors have donated $87 million since 2018 to Congress, including a nearly 20 percent increase over the past two election cycles. During that time, Sentinels primary contractor, Northrop Grumman, has given $3.8 million to members of the House and Senate Armed Services committees, where key decisions are made on nuclear weapons.

The 11 Sentinel contractors also spent $226 million lobbying since 2018, according to the Quincy report, which drew from publicly available data on political spending. The contractors also have hundreds of other contracts with the Pentagon and U.S. government, and Quincy did not attempt to differentiate spending on particular programs.

Bill Hartung, the author of the Quincy report and a senior research fellow at the institute, said there is a strong economic component to the Sentinel program that makes it difficult to restrain the $141 billion program, especially given how many jobs it creates on and around military installations.

But Hartung said the money has vast influence in decisionmaking on Capitol Hill, beyond those whose constituencies will see a direct benefit.

Certainly some members, they have kind of an ideological, strategic idea, but I think the money and the jobs reinforce them, he said, and theres a lot of members who dont have that kind of connection in terms of jobs in their state, who are also being persuaded to support the program, not necessarily with a full sense of whether they serve our interests strategically.

Congress remains generally united behind Sentinel. Efforts to restrain the controversial program, including earlier this year in the latest version of the House Armed Services Committees National Defense Authorization Act, have met pushback from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

Senators receiving relatively large shares of the funds include lawmakers from states that house ICBM missiles or work on Sentinel-related projects: Montana, North Dakota, Utah and Wyoming.

Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), one of those senators, said the world was becoming increasingly dangerous, and it was vital to modernize nuclear weapons.

Its important as a matter of policy and as a matter of politics, he said of Sentinel. Im a strong advocate for it, always have been. If I didnt get a single dollar from Northrop Grumman or anybody else, any of their subcontractors, Id still be a strong advocate for the deterrent, because its just that important.

Sentinel is a major new program that will replace the more than 50-year-old Minuteman III ICBMs scattered across rural Western states.

Most of the missiles and related infrastructure for the project are housed at Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana and Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota.

The project, which began around 2014, is expected to be completed by the early 2030s, but delays and cost increases could derail that timeline.

The coast increases have been a major obstacle to the program, soaring this year to $140.9 billion, up 81 percent from 2020 and even more from estimates around 2015, which had a cost of roughly $60 billion.

Sentinel hit a Nunn-McCurdy breach in January that required the Pentagon to step in and review the program. Pentagon officials cleared the program to continue in July, saying it was vital to national security, though they are pushing to restructure the program to save costs.

According to the Quincy report, since 2018, the top five spending lobbyists who work on the Sentinel program include Honeywell, which has spent some $20 million on lobbying; Lockheed Martin at nearly $19 million; Northrop Grumman at $18.2 million; and General Dynamics at $13 million.

The top lawmakers on the House Armed Services Committee who have received the contractors money since 2018 include Reps. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), Donald Norcross (D-N.J.), Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.) and Joe Wilson (R-S.C.).

On the Senate side, Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) took the most from Sentinel contractors since 2018, the report says. Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and ranking member Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) were also top recipients.

The Hill has reached out to each of the lawmakers who are mentioned in the report.

Sentinel is part of a more than $1 trillion nuclear modernization upgrade the U.S. is pushing to complete. ICBMs are one part of the nuclear triad, along with bomber planes and submarines, all three of which the Pentagon is also working to acquire new versions of.

But amid the rising costs, some critics have questioned whether ICBMs are necessary, arguing they are sitting targets without the speed or stealth benefits of bomber planes and submarines.

Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.) has led the calls criticizing the program on Capitol Hill, including plans to host a hearing on the issue with the Congressional Nuclear Weapons and Arms Control Working Group.

Garamendi accepted money from defense firms with Sentinel contracts since 2018, according to the new report, as has Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), who has also publicly criticized the program.

Hartung said an extraordinary lobbying spree on Capitol Hill points to companies pushing for absolutely no change in the Sentinel program.

In a lot of cases, its reinforced by the fact that the triad, in the minds of some members, is sort of sacrosanct. Its been around for a long time, he said. The strategic arguments dont fully hold up, and the economics and the money kind of create a base of support that makes it hard for the critics of Congress to make a lot of headway.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Key Insights

Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien's significant retail investors ownership suggests that the key decisions are influenced by shareholders from the larger public

The top 25 shareholders own 45% of the company

Institutions own 14% of Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien

A look at the shareholders of Borussia Dortmund GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien (ETR:BVB) can tell us which group is most powerful. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 55% to be precise, is retail investors. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

And private companies on the other hand have a 15% ownership in the company.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien, beginning with the chart below.

Check out our latest analysis for Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien?

Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices.

Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien's earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters.

Hedge funds don't have many shares in Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien. Looking at our data, we can see that the largest shareholder is Bernd Geske with 8.2% of shares outstanding. In comparison, the second and third largest shareholders hold about 8.2% and 6.0% of the stock.

Our studies suggest that the top 25 shareholders collectively control less than half of the company's shares, meaning that the company's shares are widely disseminated and there is no dominant shareholder.

Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. There are a reasonable number of analysts covering the stock, so it might be useful to find out their aggregate view on the future.

Story continues

Insider Ownership Of Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien

The definition of company insiders can be subjective and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it.

Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances.

Shareholders would probably be interested to learn that insiders own shares in Borussia Dortmund GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien. In their own names, insiders own 32m worth of stock in the 385m company. This shows at least some alignment. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public -- including retail investors -- own 55% of Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien. With this amount of ownership, retail investors can collectively play a role in decisions that affect shareholder returns, such as dividend policies and the appointment of directors. They can also exercise the power to vote on acquisitions or mergers that may not improve profitability.

Private Company Ownership

It seems that Private Companies own 15%, of the Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien stock. Private companies may be related parties. Sometimes insiders have an interest in a public company through a holding in a private company, rather than in their own capacity as an individual. While it's hard to draw any broad stroke conclusions, it is worth noting as an area for further research.

Public Company Ownership

Public companies currently own 8.2% of Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien stock. This may be a strategic interest and the two companies may have related business interests. It could be that they have de-merged. This holding is probably worth investigating further.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with Borussia Dortmund GmbH Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
On Sept. 11, 2001, I was among thousands of people who learned the devastating news that a member of their extended family  in my case, my nephew  was among the nearly 3,000 people whom terrorists murdered that malevolent day.

We have waited for justice and answers ever since. Last week, we learned the wait might soon end because three of the key architects of the attacks agreed to plead guilty to murder in exchange for not being subject to the death penalty. More than that, the agreement, as I noted on my Faith Matters blog, would give 9/11 families like mine the opportunity to hear from the terrorists their explanations of the role they played in this international catastrophe and why they participated in it.

Now all of that  inexplicably  has collapsed. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin quickly revoked the plea deals with the man accused of masterminding the Sept. 11 attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, and two accomplices, who are held at the U.S. military prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Austins action was outrageous and will drag out the agony for families like mine even more. The way this whole case has been handled from the beginning  torture for those captured, lack of anything like a fair and swift legal process, military commissions instead of real courts  has been an embarrassment to the United States and a way of adding to the agony of grieving families.

Through an organization called September Eleventh Families for Peaceful Tomorrows, my sister and her husband, parents of my nephew Karleton Fyfe, and I have been kept up to date on developments as the group continues to work for a more peaceful future. Among other things, weve been able to learn from defense attorneys representing the 9/11 defendants what theyre doing and why theyre doing it.

But Secretary Austins recent action blindsided them just as it shocked Peaceful Tomorrows members. And no one knows whats next.

Graeme Wood, a staff writer at The Atlantic, said it well in a recent piece: Austins intervention was one of the most bizarre and inexplicable decisions since the commissions bizarre and inexplicable inception.

If Austin doesnt change his mind and accept the plea deals as negotiated over years and years, the result, Wood wrote, will be that the pointless sacrifice of money and time will continue.

In effect, the prisoners are staying alive without having to plead guilty to anything as long as this plea agreement is set aside. Its ridiculous, painful and shameful. In fact, as long as all of this is dead in the water, the only thing continuing is the anguish for families and the national shame that is the prison at Guantanamo.

There are two 9/11 Gitmo prisoners in addition to the three who agreed to the plea deal. One is considered so mentally and physically damaged (by torture and other mistreatment) as to be unable to understand what a plea deal might be. The other continues to negotiate for a deal that might have been wrapped into the now-canceled deal, or that could become a separate deal.

As you can see, following this case has been like watching a demolition derby revved up to fast-forward speed, except that it has rarely moved forward at all and certainly never quickly.

What I find especially frustrating is that it now looks as if none of the questions Ive already submitted as possibilities to ask Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and the other two defendants may never get asked. Knowing that other 9/11 family members probably would ask about whether the terrorists had support from the government of Saudi Arabia (most of the 9/11 terrorists were Saudis), I focused instead on such questions as:

If you believed that your actions were sanctioned in some way by Islam, how did you draw that conclusion  a conclusion I, a Christian, reject as an insult to Islam?

Have you changed your mind about whether your 9/11 actions were in harmony with Islamic teaching? If so, do you now regret that you misused Islam so horrifically?

So Austin and President Joe Biden have some explaining to do about all of this. If things stand as they are now, the likelihood of 9/11 families getting anything like justice is zero. And we deserve so much more than that.

Bill Tammeus, a former Kansas City Star columnist, now writes for Flatland, KCPT-TVs digital magazine. His latest book is Love, Loss and Endurance: A 9-11 Story of Resilience and Hope in an Age of Anxiety. Email him at wtammeus@gmail.com
Passengers of Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines are filing a federal class action lawsuit over flights canceled as a result of the global IT outage that grounded thousands of flights last month.

In July, a cybersecurity software update from developer Crowdstrike caused an IT outage across the world, hitting businesses, airlines and hospitals hard.

Thousands of flights across the country had to be canceled for days after the outage began. Among the airlines affected, Delta was by far the hardest hit.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Hundreds of people were stranded at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport for days.

Now, several passengers are suing the airline and demanding refunds for the flights.

The named plaintiffs in the lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of Georgia, include a Colorado man who was stranded in Amsterdam, Netherlands, a Florida man stranded in Atlanta on his way to Seattle, Washington and was forced to take a Greyhound bus back home, and more.

RELATED STORIES:

The passengers involved in the lawsuit are asking for refunds for their canceled flights, as well as the flights and hotels they had to book because of their canceled flights.

CEO Ed Bastian said the airline lost $500 million as a result of the outage.

Delta told Channel 2 Action News that they will not comment on pending litigation, but say they have taken some actions to assist the affected passengers.

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You can read the full lawsuit below.

Delta lawsuit by National Content Desk on Scribd

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Democratic candidates, Jennifer McCormick for Indiana Governor, and Heidi Beidinger for Indiana District 5, share their views on education, healthcare and transparency at a town hall at Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library on Aug. 6, 2024. CAMILLE SARABIA, SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE

MISHAWAKA  With so much recent attention paid to Project 2025 and what it would mean for the country if Donald Trump returns to the presidency, one of two Democratic candidates told a crowd at the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library Hoosiers have already seen the early draft.

"It's already here in Indiana," said Indiana House Dist. 5 candidate Heidi Beidinger. "Am I right?"

She was responding to an audience member asking Beidinger and gubernatorial candidate Jennifer McCormick what they think of Project 2025, a plan drafted by the think tank The Heritage Foundation setting goals to consolidate power if Donald Trump returns to the White House.

"People want to talk about it as though it's this abstract thing; it's not," Beidinger continued. "They're talking about getting rid of the Department of Education. What are we doing here in Indiana? We're crippling public education. They want to get rid of veteran's rights and healthcare. It's not so great here in Indiana."

She said list goes on and on.

Project 2025 wants to get rid of the EPA, Beidinger said, pointing out that in Indiana "we're already deregulated." She called Indiana "one of the most polluted states in the country."

With her career rooted in public health and education for over 30 years, Beidinger said, she is aware of what she called "environmental blackmail," saying Indiana is pushing back on environmental protections to the point citizens have to choose between good-paying jobs or water.

"When people want to talk about Project 2025 in the abstract, (saying) that can't possibly happen. Guys, it is already happening right here in Indiana," Beidinger said. "Point to right here and you can show them what Project 2025 is going to look like for the rest of the country."

McCormick kept her statement on Project 2025 brief, but called it a "very planned, very disciplined, very resourced plan."

"It doesn't only defund public education, it then goes after healthcare, it goes after family planning and that's where birth control and IVF come into play," she said. "It also goes into who you marry and who you don't marry."

Project 2025 doesn't surprise her, McCormick said.

McCormick used to be a Republican, and was elected Indiana's superintendent of public instruction as a Republican in 2016. She switched parties in 2021 after leaving office.

During her time as state superintendent, she said, she heard conversations at the Statehouse that showed her things were moving in a very extreme way. She expressed confidence most Hoosiers of both political parties do not agree with the aims of Project 2025.

Education was a central topic the pair addressed with the crowd of about 80 people in the downtown library's Spencer Gallery.

Half of the state's budget goes towards K-12 education, Beidinger said, but last year, $700 million was siphoned off and sent to private schools. This year, she said, $800 million is slated to go, calling it deceptive and not right.

According to the Indiana Department of Education's draft on graduation changes, the state's four graduation diploma options will be narrowed down to two  Indiana GPS (Graduates Prepared to Succeed) diploma and Indiana GPS Plus diploma, with a greater focus on workplace learning, the Indy Star reported.

Jennifer McCormick, the Democratic candidate for Indiana governor, shares her views on education, environment and voting at a town hall at the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library on Aug. 6, 2024. CAMILLE SARABIA, SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE

Some of Indiana's largest universities  Purdue University, University of Southern Indiana, and Indiana State University  issued letters saying most Indiana high school diplomas won't meet the minimum requirements to enroll in the universities. Under this redesign, only 2% of Indiana students would be eligible to attend a state-supported college, McCormick said.

"The new requirements were rolled out to fill the jobs of today," she said, referring to $10/hour low-skills jobs.

McCormick said new requirements remove world languages, Career and Technical Education electives  she said this is despite millions of dollars that were just invested to CTE  fine arts, economics, math higher than algebra, science higher that biology or world history.

"The new requirements are a pathway to an uneducated Indiana," McCormick said. "Our kids, your grandkids, our neighbors, deserve better."

The young people with so much at stake are not widely registered to vote, Beidinger said, citing a statistic of only 15% of younger Hoosiers registered to vote.

Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota and Oregon see double or triple those numbers because state legislators allow college students to vote on campus, she said, saying, Indiana doesn't allow that. She vowed that under her and McCormick's leadership, they'd make that possible.

McCormick encouraged the attendees to give people a reason to go to the polls.

Heidi Beidinger, the Democratic candidate for House Dist. 5, shared her views on education, mental health and Project 2025 at a town hall at Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library on Aug. 6, 2024. CAMILLE SARABIA, SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE

"If they're a young person, you need to ask, do you want birth control? That gets a lot people out there," McCormick said. "You need to tell people my age, do you want hormones for menopause? That gets people out there."

She posed further questions to get people to the polls:

Do you want you reproductive rights and freedoms?

Do you want childcare?

Do you want to save public education or not?

Portage Township board member Ryan Hill listened to Democratic candidates Jennifer McCormick for Indiana Governor and Heidi Beidinger for Indiana House Dist. 5 at a town hall at Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library on Aug. 6, 2024. CAMILLE SARABIA, SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE

The candidates also shared their support and excitement for Kamala Harris and her choice of Tim Walz for vice president.

When President Joe Biden's support was offered to Harris, Beidinger said someone said to her, "Are we all in for Harris?"

"How did I feel?" Beidinger said. "I saw myself, a woman, running for the president, the highest office in the land. I was thrilled that this could be the opportunity where we put a woman in the Oval Office."

Attendees at a town hall hosted by Heidi Beidinger for Indiana House Dist. 5 and Jennifer McCormick for governor on Aug. 6, 2024 at the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library applauded with statements they resonated with. CAMILLE SARABIA, SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE

For McCormick, the new energy is building momentum.

"I really think that Indiana is going to see the mobilization to the polls that we've been looking for," she said, saying they have less than 100 days in the sprint to the end.

Email Tribune staff writer Camille Sarabia at csarabia@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Indiana governor and House Dist. 5 candidates hold Mishawaka town hall
A group of Democratic lawmakers introduced bills in the House and Senate on Wednesday aimed at preventing a second ban on immigration from certain Muslim countries.

The National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants (NO BAN) Act would strengthen federal immigration law to prevent discrimination based on religion, and limit overly broad executive authority to issue travel bans.

The bills are led by Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.) and Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), and are similar to a bill passed by the House in 2021.

Former President Trumps travel ban, enacted by executive order in January 2017, initially targeted immigration from seven majority-Muslim countries. It was modified as it faced legal challenges, eventually encompassing Iran, Syria, Yemen, Libya and Somalia as well as North Korea and Venezuela before the Supreme Court upheld it in 2018.

President Biden overturned the ban when he entered office in 2021. Trump has threatened to reinstate a similar ban if reelected.

A hateful stain on our nation, Trumps Muslim ban was inspired by bigotry and Islamophobia and did lasting damage to the families it separated, Chu said in a statement. I was so grateful when the Biden-Harris administration took action on its first day to rescind all versions of this ban, but we cant risk letting prejudice against Muslims, or any other religious minority, become policy once again.

Coons labeled the Trump ban cruel and counterproductive.

It tore apart families; led to the detention of people at airports for hours with limited access to food, water, or legal representation; and violated the very fabric of who we are as a country, he said in a statement. We must ensure that this senseless policy is never repeated and that no elected official acts on fear and prejudice to discriminate based on religion or nationality.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PHILADELPHIA  A crowd of thousands went absolutely nuts over Vice President Kamala Harris new running mate, the previously little-known Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who energized an audience at a Temple University arena into almost ear-splitting decibels of excitement on Tuesday.

He drove the economy into the ground, and make no mistake, violent crime was up under Donald Trump  and thats not even counting the crimes that he committed, said Walz, the crowd erupting in yelling, cheering and foot-stomping for several seconds.

It was remarkable considering this was the first time that many here had heard directly from the governor  who was chosen, in part, because hes a well-rounded, plainspoken white dude from the Midwest.

But Walz, 60, made it immediately clear that Democrats should not expect his tone on the campaign to be all Midwestern nice, and that Harris likely also chose him because hes good at getting nasty about Trump.

Dont believe him when he plays dumb. He knows exactly what Project 2025 would be, Walz said, citing the authoritarian blueprint for a second Trump term spearheaded by Trumps allies at the conservative Heritage Foundation. Trump has tried to distance himself from Project 2025, as well as calls from some in the GOP for a deeply unpopular national abortion ban. But Walz said Trump cannot be trusted.

Even if you wouldnt make the same choice yourself, theres a golden rule  mind your own damn business! he said, again to thunderous applause.

Walz: In Minnesota we respect our neighbors and their personal choices that they make. Even if we wouldn't make the same choice for ourselves, there's a golden rule, mind your own damn business. pic.twitter.com/TRQNlbySlE  Acyn (@Acyn) August 6, 2024

Walz is known for originating the weird dig Democrats have begun using against Republicans. On Tuesday, he again suggested that Republicans are the party of no-boundaries weirdos with a reference to JD Vance and a couch, a nod to a bogus story about Vance describing having sexual relations with a couch in his memoir that nonetheless took on a life of its own online.

Walz made a sarcastic nod to the fact that he and Vance both hail from the Midwest. Walz is from Minnesota and was born in Nebraska. Vance famously grew up in Ohio and wrote about it in his best-selling memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, which gave him cred as someone who understood the motivations of poor white Americans who voted for Trump in 2016.

Like all 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 best-seller trashing that community, he said. Cmon, thats not what middle America is. And I tell you, I cant wait to debate the guy. That is, if hes willing to get off the couch. Walz seemed delighted at his own joke while Harris grimaced and tried to stifle a laugh in the background.

During remarks from Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who was reportedly the runner up for the job of Harris No. 2, the crowd erupted in a chant of, Hes a weirdo! about Vance for almost 20 seconds.

If I hear you right  and I think I do  youre chanting, Hes a weirdo. If youre chanting, Hes a weirdo, then youve heard of my good friend and our next vice president Tim Walz. Tim Walz, in his own plainspoken, Midwestern way, summed up JD Vance best  hes a weirdo! said Shapiro, who reportedly only learned this morning he wasnt getting the job.

Trumps campaign blasted out a memo after the news broke about Walz titled Tim Walz is an incompetent liberal, claiming Walz and Harris are both far-left radicals who dont know how to govern.

...In his own plainspoken, Midwestern way, summed up JD Vance best  he's a weirdo!Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro on Harris running mate Tim Walz

For the first time in what felt like a long time, Democrats, newly energized by Harris at the top of the ticket and having the jovial silver-haired Walz in tow, were having fun and focusing less on doom and gloom  even as they effectively campaigned under the weight of a swing state they cant really afford to lose. Biden carried Pennsylvania by fewer than 81,000 votes in 2020.

Recent polling confirms the vibes are grounded in reality: FiveThirtyEights polling average has Harris leading Trump in its national head-to-head average  better than Biden was doing in late June, before the bad debate that forced him to drop his reelection bid.

The crowd was singing and dancing throughout the event, pumped up by a DJ that played a steady stream of Megan Thee Stallion, as well as Ludacris Move B***h (the bleeped version) and DMXs Party Up (Up In Here).

You can feel the energy in this room. It is tangible; it is palpable, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said before a marching band sent the room over the moon.

Young voters at the rally were having a blast. A young-looking man with a sign reading, Kamala Is Future and a drawing of what looked like two coconuts shared his elation with the crowd by repeatedly blowing a whistle. A few said they would not have been as excited to vote for Biden.

I would not have, but I am glad that he was able to take the time to step down, realize where he was, and make sure that he listens to his advisors, said 27-year-old Archana Chungapally, who is looking forward to voting for Harris because they share the same cultural identity.

People our age are shockingly into politics right now, said Bailey Pincus, a 21-year-old student at Temple. I think everyone is excited to have a woman.

Harris preceded Walz on stage, introducing him as a veteran, social studies teacher, congressman and two-term governor known for progressive reforms like signing into law protections for reproductive health care, trans health care and gun safety  even though hes a gun owner and hunter.

He really does shine a light on a brighter future we can build together. In his state hes been a model chief executive, and with his experience, Tim Walz will be ready on Day 1, said Harris.

Walz hyped up Harris as a former prosecutor and California attorney general, an aspect of her biography that was out of step with the Democratic Party when she ran for president in 2020. Now Democrats are leaning into framing Harris as courtroom tough, which is how Shapiro, a fellow former state AG, described her, and how Walz also portrayed her.

She took on the predators, she took on the fraudsters, she took down the transnational gangs, she stood up against powerful corporate interests, and she never hesitated to reach across the aisle to improve peoples lives, said Walz, and she does it all with a sense of joy.

Walz also urged Democrats to settle their political differences not with violence but votes, but acknowledged the short on-ramp to the election, which Harris and Walz are embracing by barnstorming swing states over the next few days. Well sleep when were dead, Walz said.

Related...
Democrats press health department for answers after surge in HIV/syphilis in Shelby County

Diagnosed cases of HIV and syphilis among young people aged 15 to 19, diagnosed cases increased 150%. (Photo: Getty Images)

Diagnosed cases of HIV and syphilis among young people aged 15 to 19, diagnosed cases increased 150%. (Photo: Getty Images)

Amid a surge in HIV and syphilis cases in Shelby County, a group of Democratic lawmakers is pressing state health officials for answers.

Cases of HIV and syphilis in the Memphis region increased by 100% over the past five years, according to the Shelby County Department of Health, which has, thus far, not released total case numbers. Among young people aged 15 to 19, diagnosed cases increased 150%.

This disturbing trend underscores the urgent need for effective public health strategies and resources to combat the spread of these infections. read the letter, sent late last week.

The lawmakers are demanding an explanation from Tennessee Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Ralph Alvarado about a series of state policy changes that they believe are exacerbating the crisis, rather than addressing it.

Among the changes: a new parental rights law requiring parental consent for teens seeking healthcare services.

The Lookout reported last month that the Tennessee Department of Health quietly instructed public health clinics to turn away teens seeking access to routine healthcare without a parent, citing new legislation known as the Family Rights and Responsibilities Act.

Its a significant shift in policy for teens accustomed to seeking out birth control, sexually transmitted disease testing, pregnancy tests and routine healthcare in public health clinics  which serve as the only accessible source of healthcare for teens living in some rural Tennessee communities.

Advocates have warned that the way the Department of Health is interpreting the new law  by concluding it supersedes prior laws that allow teens to access birth control and sexually transmitted disease testing  will deter young people from visiting clinics entirely, exacerbating outbreaks of sexually transmitted disease.

The Department of Health has not yet publicly acknowledged the shift in policy for teens and did not respond to a renewed request for information from the Lookout on Tuesday.

There hasnt been anything concrete in writing, said Rep. Aftyn Behn, a Nashville Democrat. There hasnt been any communication from the commissioner.

Behn said she is concerned that the growing influence of a parental rights movement in Tennessee, which has ushered in a series of laws in recent years giving parents more legal control over teens, shares blame for the surge in HIV and syphilis cases among young people.

The actual, tangible consequence of the movement is this public health crisis, she said.

The Democrats are also seeking information on how Gov. Bill Lees decision to reject federal HIV funding is impacting the current Shelby County outbreaks.

The reality is this is 2024. Teens are having sex. What they dont have is the information they need.

 Sen. London Lamar, D-Memphis

Last year Lee announced he would reject millions in funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for HIV prevention and treatment that previously went to Planned Parenthood clinics in Tennessee.

GOP lawmakers have, for years, fought to remove public funding from the clinics, which also provided abortion services until the states strict ban took effect in 2022.

Sen. London Lamar, a Memphis Democrat who signed onto the letter, cited another GOP backed measure as contributing to the current outbreak in Shelby County.

A so-called Gateway Law enacted by GOP lawmakers in 2012 requires abstinence-only sexual education in public schools.

The reality is this is 2024. Teens are having sex. What they dont have is the information they need, she said.

Letter to Dr. Alvarado 08.02.2024

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With Democrats ticket finalized, here are the 8 expected nominees on SCs ballot

(Elena Sunagatova/ iStock/Getty Images Plus)

COLUMBIA  With Vice President Kamala Harris formally becoming the Democratic nominee for president and selecting her running mate this week, voters choices between the major parties are clear.

However, when South Carolina voters go to cast their ballot  whether in 90 days on Election Day itself or sometime during early voting  theyll have a lot more than two parties to pick between.

Beyond Harris leading Democrats ticket and former President Donald Trump as Republicans nominee, there will likely be six other parties on South Carolinas ballot for president. Finding your choice may take a minute.

Whos running for president in SC?

The following are expected to be on South Carolinas ballot for president, though not all have completed filing their paperwork with state election officials. The nominees are listed with their running mates in the order theyre slated to appear:

 Constitution: Randall Terry and Stephen Broden

 United Citizens: Cornel West and Melina Abdullah

 Green: Jill Stein, no running mate announced yet

 Republican: Donald Trump and J.D. Vance

 Alliance: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Nicole Shanahan

 Libertarian: Chase Oliver and Mike ter Maat

 Democratic: Kamala Harris and Tim Walz

 Workers (Previously Labor): Claudia De la Cruz and Karina Garcia

This year, the list will start with the Constitution Party and end with the Workers Party. Its not because the parties are in alphabetical order. Republican and Democrat are listed fourth and seventh, respectively.

Rather, to eliminate any seeming preference, the South Carolina Election Commission rotates the list of all participating parties every two years, with the party at the top dropping down to the bottom.

More recognizable minor-party presidential candidates include Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is running under the Alliance Party banner.

Thats the party co-founded in 2013 by former state Superintendent Jim Rex  the last Democrat in statewide office  and Dr. Oscar Lovelace, who unsuccessfully challenged the re-election of Gov. Mark Sanford in the 2006 GOP primary, as an alternative to the polarizing two-party system.

Launched as the American Party, it joined with independent parties in other states in 2018 to become the national Alliance Party.

Unlike in other states, including neighboring North Carolina, where Kennedys effort to get on the ballot has faced legal challenges, it wasnt a problem in South Carolina.

The Kennedy campaign initially explored the possibility of being a petition candidate in the Palmetto State, according to John Michael Catalano, spokesman for the state Election Commission.

But that became unnecessary after Kennedy approached Alliance Party leaders, including Rex, the national chair emeritus.

When Kennedy signed a letter saying he would abide by the partys principles  which include being honest and transparent and working for people, not special interests  the party put him on the ballot, said Keisha Long, state chairwoman since 2022.

Back in March, we werent sure he was a good fit, to be totally honest, Long said. And then  we really started looking at his platform. But more importantly, we revisited our values and what we say we value, and he was willing to adhere to our principles.

Progressive activist Cornel West is on the United Citizens ticket in South Carolina.

The former Harvard professor, author and philosopher of African American studies had planned to run as the Green Party candidate in 2024 but decided last fall to run as an independent instead.

Back on the ballot as the Green Party nominee is Jill Stein, who also ran unsuccessfully for president in 2016 and 2012. Stein received about 1% of the popular vote nationally in 2016, but many Democrats faulted Stein as taking votes away from Hillary Clinton and helping Trump win in swing states.

In South Carolina, Stein received less than 1% in 2016, coming in fifth in a seven-way field won by Trump, who won with 55% over Clintons 41%.

In 2020, there were five presidential contenders on South Carolinas ballot, which Trump again won by 55%.

This years Democratic ticket was finalized following a five-day virtual roll call that formally made Harris the nominee, the Democratic National Committee announced late Monday. She announced her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, on Tuesday.

Trump officially accepted the Republican nomination last month, selecting Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance as his running mate.

South Carolina does not allow write-in candidates for president or vice president.

The state does have a petition process for presidential candidates. They can get on the ballot without the backing of a party if they collect at least 10,000 signatures from active, registered South Carolina voters by July 15.

But no one did that this election cycle.
(Bloomberg) -- A court in Denmark has sentenced a Polish man to deportation and four months in prison for attacking the Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on the street in Copenhagen.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The 39-year-old man was found guilty of violence against an official after hitting the Danish premier with a clenched fist on her upper arm on June 7, local media reported on Wednesday, following a two-day court hearing.

Frederiksen, 46, suffered a minor whiplash and canceled several European parliament election events after the episode. The Polish national, who was immediately caught and detained, has later said in court he was intoxicated and doesnt remember the incident.

--With assistance from Sara Sjolin.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Republican Denny Hoskins and Democrat Barbara Phifer will represent their respective parties as candidates for Missouri Secretary of State in November.

Hoskins pulled ahead in Tuesday's primary election, which featured seven other Republican candidates, winning the Republican nomination with about 24.4% of the vote, according to the Associated Press. Valentina Gomez, Shane Schoeller, Adam Schwadron, Jamie Corley, Dean Plocher, Mary Elizabeth Coleman and Mike Carter also ran for a spot on the General Election ballot.

Phifer won her race with 40.9% of the votes, according to the Associated Press. Haley Jacobson and Monique Williams also ran in the Democrat primary.

Denny Hoskins

Republican Denny Hoskins is running for Missouri Secretary of State in the Missouri primary election on Aug. 6, 2024.

The News-Leader reached out to Hoskins for a statement but did not hear back by press deadline.

Greene County Clerk Schoeller, who ran for Secretary of State for the second time this year, congratulated Hoskins on a campaign well run.

"We're still looking forward to November with the outcome there, but certainly whoever is successful in November, I'll be there to support them," Schoeller told the News-Leader on Tuesday night.

The Democrat primary was also called late, with Phifer garnering about 40.9% of the Democratic votes cast.

A mid-Missouri native, Hoskins lives and works in Warrensburg. He is an alumnus of the University of Central Missouri and holds a Certified Public Accountant license. Currently, Hoskins is a Missouri Senator representing District 21, which includes Cooper, Howard, Lafayette, Ray, Saline and part of Clay Counties. He has also worked at and owned a CPA firm and served as a tax manager for EisnerAmper, a national accounting, tax and business advisory firm.

One of Hoskins' main points of interest is "safe and secure" elections.

Specifically, Hoskins said he would like to create an Office of Election Integrity with existing staff of the Office of the Secretary of State. This office would serve as an "on-call" resource at the four Secretary of State offices in Missouri. The main purpose of this office would be to office a "whistleblower hotline" that folks could call into if they notice anything "nefarious" at a polling place. Hoskins said he would also like to install security cameras inside all polling places throughout the state.

Additionally, Hoskins said in an interview with the News-Leader in June that he would like to eliminate the use of voting machines at polling places, as he does not trust them, and work to create clearer ballots for Missourians.

Hoskins' other main point of interest is public libraries. Hoskins said he would like to "withhold any funds going to a public library if they have X-rated materials in kids sections or are sponsoring drag show story hour for kids."

Barbara Phifer

Barbara Phifer is running for Missouri Secretary of State in 2024.

A Columbia native, Phifer has lived and worked in the St. Louis area for the past 34 years. She attended Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa before pursuing a master's in divinity. She served as a pastor in the United Methodist Church for 41 years before retiring in 2019. In 2020, she was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives to represent District 90, which encompasses St. Louis County.

Two of Phifer's main points of interest as a candidate are elections and local libraries.

Phifer said she would like to see more "clear and accurate" ballot language. Specifically, Phifer expressed concern with how current Secretary of State Ashcroft attempted to ban the right to abortion in the state constitution in 2023.

"Our current Secretary of State wrote ballot language on the abortion amendment question that was so skewed that our Supreme Court in Missouri, in a sudden ... decision, threw it out," Phifer told the News-Leader in an interview in June. "That is a huge concern for me."

When it comes to elections, Phifer said she would also like to show more appreciation to election officials.

On the topic of libraries, Phifer said she would like to continue making the state's library system more "robust," allowing local organizations to delegate how local libraries function.

"It seems to me like we've got a good system," Phifer told the News-Leader in June. "Libraries across the state are going to have different types of books because of different types of populations. Local groups are the ones that need to figure that out. It doesn't make sense to run it any other way."

Phifer added that she believes parents should be the ones to determine what their children read, not libraries or the government.

Greta Cross is the trending topics reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. She has more than five years of journalism experience covering everything from Ozarks history to Springfields LGBTQIA+ community. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretalcross. Story idea? Email her at gcross@news-leader.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Denny Hoskins, Barbara Phifer selected as Secretary of State candidates
Buca di Beppo announced Monday the Italian family-style restaurant chain will voluntarily file for bankruptcy as the company vowed to keep 44 of its locations open in 14 states to "best allow us to continue to serve Buca's patrons and communities for many years to come." Photo courtesy of Buca di Beppo

Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Italian family-style restaurant chain Buca di Beppo is filing for bankruptcy after closing dozens of locations in Arizona, California, Pennsylvania, Utah and Michigan.

Buca di Beppo announced Monday it would voluntarily file for reorganization under Chapter 11 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas.

"This is a strategic step towards a strong future for Buca di Beppo. While the restaurant industry has faced significant challenges, this move is the best next step for our brand. By restructuring with the continued support of our lenders, we are paving the way toward a reinvigorated future," Rich Saultz, the Orlando, Fla.-based chain's president said in a statement.

Buca di Beppo also vowed to keep 44 of its locations open in 14 states as it restructures, and announced plans Monday to open one new restaurant.

"We believe this path will best allow us to continue to serve Buca's patrons and communities for many years to come. We are open for business in 44 locations and we expect day-to-day operations to continue uninterrupted," William Snyder, chief restructuring officer of Buca C LLC, said in a statement. "We anticipate moving through this process as quickly and efficiently as possible to emerge as a stronger organization built for the future."

Buca di Beppo, which opened in 1993 as a casual Italian "red sauce joint" in Minneapolis, promised its customers Monday that all reservations and gift cards will be honored at its 44 locations.

The restaurant chain's history has been rocky since going public in 1999. It was investigated by the Securities and Exchange Commission for fraud in 2005. Its chief executive officer, chief financial officer and controller pled guilty to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from the company.

That same year, the restaurant chain -- which numbered 96 locations -- was ordered to remove all statuary busts of the pope "due to respect" after the death of Pope John Paul II.

Robert Earl's Planet Hollywood acquired the chain in 2008 for $28.5 million, which later became Earl Enterprises.

According to court papers obtained by USA Today, the company blames its current financial problems on hiring difficulties and rising costs. The restaurant chain named 30 creditors that are owed close to $50 million.

Last month, Buca di Beppo closed 13 underperforming locations that had failed to recover from the pandemic. The closures included restaurants in Sacramento, Calif; Salt Lake City and Midvale, Utah; Livonia and Utica, Mich.; Springs Township, Penn.; and Colonie, N.Y.

"Buca di Beppo has been a beloved gathering place for celebrations and memorable meals for many years," Saultz said, "and we are enthusiastic about entering this next phase of our brand's story."
Sen. Denny Hoskins, R-Warrensburg, points at fellow Senate Freedom Caucus members as he tells reporters that the Missouri Senate Freedom Caucus will outlive their time in the chamber (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

State Sen. Denny Hoskins emerged from an eight-way primary Tuesday to capture the Republican nomination for Missouri Secretary of State.

He was declared the winner by the Associated Press at 10:15 p.m., holding 24% of the vote.

Hoskins served in the Army National Guard before becoming a certified public accountant. He has represented Warrensburg in the state House and Senate, leaving the legislature after this year because of term limits.

His statehouse career is defined in recent years by his membership in the Senate Freedom Caucus, where Hoskins and his cohorts clashed with the chambers GOP leadership  creating years of gridlock in a battle over the partys priorities.

Those rumbles with Republican leaders are also a key part of Hoskins campaign message, which he insists is proof hes a fighter who will stand up for the values of his party.

I am running because I believe Missouri needs secure elections; we have to ensure that none of the electoral fraud that took place in 2020 and stole the election from President Trump happens here, Hoskins said after his victory. I will work hard to eliminate electoral fraud and advocate for a return to secure elections using in-person voting and no machines that can be hacked or sabotaged.

If elected in November, Hoskins says hed push for the hand counting of ballots, eliminating absentee voting except for the military and disabled and making Election Day a holiday to make it easier for Missourians to vote.

This story will be updated.
Deputies ask help locating man wanted for assault in Fresno County

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The Fresno County Sheriffs Office is asking for the publics help in locating a 25-year-old man wanted for alleged assault, evading police, and active arrest warrants.

Deputies say 25-year-old Ronald Ronnie Lovejoy is wanted for alleged assault and evading police and has active arrest warrants.

He is described as 5 foot 7, weighs 130 lbs, has blue eyes, blonde hair, and facial hair. Deputies say he has a tattoo of the name Jennifer on his left shoulder and the name Ayesha on his left forearm.

According to deputies, Lovejoy is known to frequent the areas of Friant, Prather, and Auberry. If you know his whereabouts call law enforcement immediately at 559-600-3111.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Deputies honored for rescuing man from fiery crash in Southern California

Two Los Angeles County Sheriffs Deputies were honored Tuesday for their bravery in pulling a man out of a vehicle as it was engulfed in flames last year, officials announced.

The Aug. 15, 2023, incident occurred at the intersection of 15th Street West and Avenue J-10 in Lancaster just after 2:30 a.m., LASD said in a news release.

Authorities said Sgt. Collin Reddy and Deputy Jeremiah Nurse, both assigned to LASDs Lancaster Station, displayed remarkable acts of valorwhen they pulled a man from a burning vehicle without regard for their safety.

Two LASD deputies were honored for rescuing a man from burning vehicle in Lancaster on Aug. 15, 2023. (LASD)

Two LASD deputies were honored for rescuing a man from burning vehicle in Lancaster on Aug. 15, 2023. (LASD)

Two LASD deputies were honored for rescuing a man from burning vehicle in Lancaster on Aug. 15, 2023. (LASD)

Two LASD deputies were honored for rescuing a man from burning vehicle in Lancaster on Aug. 15, 2023. (LASD)

Two LASD deputies were honored for rescuing a man from burning vehicle in Lancaster on Aug. 15, 2023. (LASD)

Body-worn camera footage of the incident shows heavy flames consuming the vehicle while the victim yells. The deputies themselves can be heard reacting to the heat of the flames as they yank the man from the car and pull him to a safe distance.

The footage captures one of the deputies stepping away after the rescue and coughing while the sound of crackling and popping is heard coming from the intense inferno.

Man killed when violence breaks out in West Hollywood parking lot

Shortly after the rescue, another deputy stepped in to pull the victim even farther back as the flames intensified.

Congressman Mike Garcia, who represents Californias 27th District, honored Reddy and Nurse in a ceremony held at the College of the Canyons Performing Arts in Santa Clarita Tuesday evening.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A Florida woman was arrested Monday in connection to the death of a Lake County sheriffs deputy whom members of the womans family allegedly killed during a standoff in their home, where theyd stockpiled a variety of weapons and anti-government propaganda, authorities announced.

Julie Sulpizio, 48, is charged with 12 offenses, including murder of a law enforcement officer and attempted murder, after her family became involved in an intense standoff with authorities that resulted in the death of Deputy Bradley Michael Link, 28, and the injury of two other deputies, officials said.

Sulpizio was already in custody by the time deputies entered the home where the shooting took place. However, authorities say the incident began when she tried to lure her neighbors into her house so her husband could kill them. Sulpizio allegedly later said that her husband acted under her command.

Bradley Michael Link, a sheriff's deputy in Lake County, Florida, was fatally shot during a standoff in Eustis on Friday. GoFundMe

On Friday morning, deputies responded to a call about Sulpizio allegedly trespassing and assaulting people in front of her neighbors home in Eustis, Florida, Sheriff Peyton Grinnell told reporters Monday.

Grinnell said Sulpizio began striking her neighbors and calling them sinners.

A deputy arrived at the home and was approached by Sulpizio. During a calm verbal exchange, according to Grinnell, Sulpizio accused the neighboring family of being involved in pedophilia, and asked one of the victims, Who is your God?

Sulpizio made further religious references before trying to convince the family to approach her house as she followed behind, according to Grinnell. She then walked toward the deputy, who pulled out his stun gun and gave her a warning.

The deputy brought Sulpizio to the ground and handcuffed her as she resisted, Grinnell said.

Another deputy who responded to the scene then conducted a welfare check on Sulpizios home, where she lived with her husband, Michael Sulpizio, 48, and their daughters Cheyenne, 23, and Savannah, 22.

The deputy saw three people running inside the house, according to Grinnell. Deputies then observed two dead dogs on the front lawn, and called for backup after seeing a broken window on the side of the house.

More deputies arrived and identified themselves to make contact with the people inside the house, Grinnell said, and authorities then learned that Michael Sulpizio had previously threatened to shoot the neighbors children.

Deputies attempted to enter the home through the back door while announcing their entry, according to Grinnell. Footage taken from Links body camera showed Michael Sulpizio on the couch with a rifle, where Grinnell said he had been waiting for the deputies.

The deputies inside the house were then met with gunfire, and Link was struck multiple times, as was Deputy Harold Howell, 41, Grinnell said. Link was immobilized by his wounds and trapped inside the house, with no more rounds in his gun, but Howell and the other deputies were able to get out.

Detectives outside the house then attempted to negotiate with the Sulpizios inside, but they were unsuccessful, Grinnell said.

As Link lay injured, his body camera was still recording. On the tape, Grinnell said, a womans voice can be heard yelling My king will kill all of you and You are Lucifers children in response to deputies outside calling for Link to crawl out to them.

Deputy Stefano Gargano, 28, led an extraction team to get Link out of the home. Gargano was shot several times with high-caliber rounds through the walls, Grinnell said, and then had to be extracted himself.

A SWAT team then entered the home, where they found the two daughters dead on the couch with self-inflicted gunshot wounds, Grinnell said. Michael Sulpizio was also discovered with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Grinnell said, and he later died at a hospital.

Links body camera recorded a woman talking about suicide as the SWAT team was getting into position, Grinnell said. Link was finally rescued after the SWAT team entered, but he died of his wounds at a hospital.

Gargano was in critical condition when he was taken to the hospital, but after three surgeries, his condition was stable as of Wednesday. Howell is expected to make a full recovery.

Detectives who searched the residence found a total of 20 firearms, including high-caliber rifles, pistols, shotguns and stockpiled ammunition in the living room area, Grinnell said. Additional ammunition, gas masks, body armor, camouflage suits, medical bags and other survival essentials were also found in the home.

Grinnell said detectives also found anti-government propaganda and conspiracy-theory related media. Lake County Lt. John Harrell later clarified that detectives found bumper stickers, stickers, [and] handouts, as well as flyers for the right-wing conspiracy platform Infowars and for various podcasts.

During her interview with detectives, Julie Sulpizio said she had been trying to lure her neighbors to her house so her husband could kill them, according to Grinnell. She allegedly claimed both to be God and that God spoke through her. She also allegedly asserted that her husband was the angel Michael and that he obeyed her command. She was taken to a hospital following the standoff and arrested on Monday following her discharge.

State Attorney Bill Gladson said Monday that officials were still reviewing evidence in the case. Online court records on Tuesday showed that Julie Sulpizio had been charged with murder of a law enforcement officer, attempted murder, battery by strangulation, battery by touch or striking, and battery on a law enforcement officer.

If convicted, Sulpizio would eligible for the death penalty, Gladson said. Its unclear if she has an attorney representing her. She is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 3.

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for mental health support. Additionally, you can find local mental health and crisis resources at dontcallthepolice.com. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

Related...
DES MOINES, Iowa  The Des Moines Police Department has released the names of two of its officers who were involved in a shooting that resulted in the death of a suspect and serious injuries to an officer.

Sgt. Paul Parizek of the Des Moines Police Department said Senior Police Officer Jesse Schneider and Police Officer Anthony Lampman responded to the 5800 block of SE 35th Circle on July 30th on a report of someone violating a restraining order shortly after 3:30 a.m.

They spotted the suspects vehicle in the area and there was a short chase. The vehicle went off the road in the 4300 block of E. Army Post Road and the suspect, later identified as 45-year-old Weston Derby of Bellevue, Nebraska, left the vehicle and ran into the thick vegetation. Sgt. Parizek said Derby turned toward officers and produced a gun, first pointing it at his own head, and then pointing it at officers. Thats when both officers fired at Derby and he was hit with gunfire. Derby died at the scene.

Winterset man who went missing in January found dead in Arkansas lake

SPO Schneider was injured in the shooting and police initially thought he had been shot by Derby. It was later determined he had been hit by a bullet from Officer Lampmans weapon.

Sgt. Parizek said SPO Schneider was in critical condition at one point, but his condition has continued to improve and on Tuesday, he was discharged from the hospital to continue his recovery at home.

Both officers remain on paid administrative assignment as is policy following an on-duty critical incident.

The investigation into the officer-involved shooting is being conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safetys Division of Criminal 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 who13.com.
Despite new criticism, Trump told Walz in 2020 he was 'very happy' with his handling of George Floyd protests

Despite new criticism, Trump told Walz in 2020 he was 'very happy' with his handling of George Floyd protests

In the hours after Vice President Kamala Harris announced Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, allies of former President Donald Trump rushed to denigrate the Minnesota Democrat, seizing on criticism of his handling of the riots in the wake of George Floyd's murder in May 2020.

"He allowed rioters to burn down the streets of Minneapolis," Ohio Sen. JD Vance, the Republican candidate for vice president, said Tuesday.

But at the time, Trump expressed support for Walz's handling of the protests, according to a recording of a phone call obtained by ABC News -- telling a group of governors that Walz "dominated," and praising his leadership as an example for other states to follow.

MORE: Harris officially names Tim Walz as vice presidential running mate

"I know Gov. Walz is on the phone, and we spoke, and I fully agree with the way he handled it the last couple of days," Trump told a group of governors on June 1, 2020, according to a recording of the call, in which he also called Walz an "excellent guy."

"I was very happy with the last couple of days, Tim," Trump continued. "You called up big numbers and the big numbers knocked them out so fast it was like bowling pins."

Trump also suggested on the call that it was his encouragement that sparked Walz to call in the National Guard: "I said, you got to use the National Guard in big numbers," Trump said. A spokesperson for the Harris-Walz campaign said Wednesday that was untrue.

Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for the Trump campaign, said Trump lauded Walz only after the governor heeded his advice to enlist support from the National Guard.

PHOTO: In this June 3, 2020, file photo, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz speaks to the press in St. Paul, Minnesota. (Scott Olson/Getty Images, FILE)

"Governor Walz allowed Minneapolis to burn for days, despite President Trump's offer to deploy soldiers and cries for help from the liberal Mayor of Minneapolis," Leavitt said in a statement to ABC News. "In this daily briefing phone call with Governors on June 1, days after the riots began, President Trump acknowledged Governor Walz for FINALLY taking action to deploy the National Guard to end the violence in the city."

Trump's contemporaneous approval of Walz's decision-making in the wake of George Floyd's murder undermines one of Republicans' most vocal lines of attack against the vice presidential nominee. Critics have accused Walz of stalling the mobilization of the National Guard to quell rioters who set fire to 1,500 buildings, caused some $500 million in property damage, and were linked to at least three deaths.

Walz, himself a 24-year veteran of the National Guard, ultimately summoned more than 7,000 guardsmen to the Twin Cities. But that decision came 18 hours after Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey initially asked the governor to activate military personnel.

"This hesitation cost Minnesotans their lives, communities, and livelihoods," according to an investigative report compiled by Republicans in the state Senate.

At the time, Walz condemned the Republicans' report -- which was published just weeks before his 2022 reelection -- as a political hit job that was "unhelpful." More recently, Walz brushed aside scrutiny of his handling of the protests.

"It is what it is," he recently told reporters. "And I simply believe that we try to do the best we can."

Inside the aftermath

In the days after the murder of George Floyd, as agitators set fires and laid siege to a police precinct, city officials scrambled to contain the unrest.

Floyd, a Black man, was killed by Officer Derek Chauvin on Monday, May 25, 2020. By Wednesday evening, the city's police "had expended all available resources," according to a copy of the written request for the National Guard prepared by police officials.

At 6:29 p.m. that Wednesday, Frey called Walz to request the National Guard, he later told the Star-Tribune. That verbal communication was followed up hours later, at 9:11 p.m., with a written request from city police officials. A copy of the written request obtained by state senators indicated that the city would need 600 guardsmen to help with area security, transportation assistance and logistical support.

That evening, Frey's office crafted a draft press release announcing that the National Guard had been called in, but did not disseminate it, according to records released by the city and reported by local outlets. Instead, city aides would have to wait another 15 hours before Walz would formally mobilize the National Guard.

MORE: Man who helped ignite George Floyd riots identified as white supremacist: Police

In text messages released by the city, a member of the mayor's staff asked, "What's happening? As far as the Guard," around 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday night. Another staffer replied that Frey "said Walz was hesitating."

"According to Minneapolis officials, the governor's office responded that they would consider the request, but the city did not receive any follow-up until much later," according to an after-action report commissioned by the state.

On Thursday afternoon, Walz imposed a curfew on city residents and formally mobilized the National Guard. The first troops arrived within hours, and by that weekend, the unrest had largely been quelled.

On Friday, Walz told reporters he had spoken with Trump the day before and that Trump had "pledged his support in terms of anything we need in terms of supplies to get to us."

Days later, on the June 1 phone call with governors, Walz thanked Trump and accepted his praise before making comments of his own -- expressing support for peaceful protesters and suggesting that governors who might otherwise hesitate to call in the National Guard could do so delicately, and frame them as "not an occupying force," but instead as "neighbors, teachers, business owners."

"That's a really effective method," Walz said.

Trump agreed, but added his own spin on the role of guardsmen.

"It got so bad a few nights ago that the people wouldn't have minded an occupying force," Trump said. "I wish we had an occupying force in there."

An 'unproductive' spat

A pair of after-action reports commissioned by the city and state cited private miscommunications and public disputes between Walz and Frey as impediments to effectively handling the protests. At one point, Walz characterized the city's response as an "abject failure."

"Several interviewees blamed the Mayor and Governor for their public disagreements about the response to the protests and expressed that this was unproductive," according to the report commissioned by the city, which was released in March 2022.

The state-commissioned report arrived at a similar conclusion: "Other state officials claim that the request became complicated when elected officials became involved (i.e., the Minneapolis mayor, the governor's office)."

Another complicating factor, those after-action reports indicated, was the failure of city officials to articulate their needs. The requests made on May 27 "initially lacked clarity and that more information and time was needed for [the state's emergency management office] to develop the necessary details of the mission to activate the Minnesota Guard," one report said.

MORE: Timeline: The impact of George Floyd's death in Minneapolis and beyond

For his part, Walz initially argued that mobilizing thousands of National Guardsmen requires time.

"The average person maybe assumes that there's soldiers waiting in helicopters to drop in like they do in movies," Walz said that Tuesday, May 26. "Actually, they're band teachers and small business owners. They're folks working in a garage in Fergus Falls who get a call that says you've got 12 hours to report to your armory."

Days later, however, Walz told a reporter that "if the issue was that the state should have moved faster, that is on me."

Lt. Gen. Jon Jensen, the director of the Minnesota National Guard at the time, later testified before state senators that, had the National Guard been deployed sooner, the protests might not have been so destructive.

"If we had done things differently on Tuesday, as it relates to numbers, as it relates to tactics, could we have avoided some of this? My unprofessional opinion as it relates to law enforcement is 'yes,'" Jensen said. "My professional military opinion is 'yes.'"

Despite new criticism, Trump told Walz in 2020 he was 'very happy' with his handling of George Floyd protests originally appeared on abcnews.go.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. (Getty Images)

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. (Getty Images)

Its been two months now since Congress let the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act 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.

Its unclear whats driving the surge  the Union for Concerned Scientists said in a news release that the increased media attention around the compensation act 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 the act 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 the act.

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 the acts 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 the compensation act 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 the act, 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 the act 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 the act 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 act 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.

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Utah News Dispatch, and Oregon Capital Chronicle, is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Utah News Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor McKenzie Romero for questions: info@utahnewsdispatch.com. Follow Utah News Dispatch on Facebook and X.
ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ala. (WIAT)  The Pell City Fire and Rescue released information regarding a fire at the Royal Sausage factory from last week.

According to the agency, firefighters received a call for a possible fire in the ventilation system at around 6 p.m. Due to the factorys layout, firefighters couldnt access all areas of the building and the fire quickly spread. This led the group to move towards a defensive attack.

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Firefighting continued into early Wednesday morning and crews remained on the scene until late Wednesday afternoon.

An investigation by the fire marshals office concluded that the fire started in an active smoker. It then spread into an enclosed area between the first and second floors, giving the fire access to the length of the building while also hindering the firefighters actions.

According to PCFD, a total of 67 personnel, 36 fire apparatus and other vehicles assisted in the firefighting.

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PIERRE, S.D. (KELO)  State government officials are tight-lipped about how $1.78 million was allegedly stolen from the South Dakota Division of Child Protection Services over a 13-year period. When asked, their common answer is they dont want to interfere with the criminal case.

Lonna Carroll, 68, was arrested July 17 after a grand jury indicted the former program assistant on two counts of aggravated grand theft. Her arraignment is scheduled for August 27.

The matter surfaced after employees in the state Department of Social Services found financial discrepancies in February. When the situation was brought to her attention, Governor Kristi Noem immediately called state Attorney General Marty Jackley. Jackley held a news conference on July 18 to announce that Carroll had been indicted and arrested.

Noem defeated Jackley in the 2018 Republican primary election for governor, but they are now working together.

Shes taken it very serious, shes been cooperative and shes put up no roadblocks for me with respect to it, and I would include the Department of Social Services with that  theyve assisted with this every step of the way  and so has Legislative Audit, Jackley said at the arrest announcement, referring to the state Department of Legislative Audit.

Jackley said hes also been in contact with Republican Rep. Mike Derby and Republican Sen. Jean Hunhoff, who co-chair the Legislatures Appropriations Committee.

I know that some legislators are informed. I would tell you that I personally called the head of Appropriations to inform them of this investigation and what was occurring, and so theyve been informed on it, but it will be up to them to make their own decisions on what they do with this, Jackley said.

State Social Services Secretary Matt Althoff isnt answering questions. He instead issued this statement: As the Attorney General said, employees at the Department of Social Services discovered suspicious financial activity and reported it to the Division of Criminal Investigation. DSS staff cooperated completely with the investigation.

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DSS utilizes both internal and external audits, reconciliations, and internal controls to safeguard public funds  additional safeguards have already been implemented, and we continue working to identify further prevention and detection methods.

As this is an ongoing criminal case, DSS cannot comment further.

Governor Noem issued this statement after the indictment against Carroll was announced:

I want to thank the Attorney General for investigating and prosecuting this matter, which began under the previous two administrations, at my request. As the Attorney General said, I directed this issue to him for criminal investigation as soon as it was brought to my attention. My administration began implementing new processes in 2022 that ended this illegal activity, and our state employees discovered it and reported it appropriately.

We have already and are continuing to implement additional checks and balances to prevent this. My administration has also undertaken the implementation of modern financial systems that will provide further controls and audit functions to safeguard taxpayer funds.

A special review by Legislative Audit documented that deposits totaling more than $900,000 were made at American Bank & Trust in Pierre allegedly by Carroll, who returned later to withdraw the money in cash. Carroll closed those accounts in March 2023 when she retired.

It remains unclear who opened those accounts.

Jackley said DCI agents used other records to arrive at the $1.78 million. He said there were more than 560 individual transactions from January 2010 through March 2023.

I dont know that an audit, additional audits, would have necessarily discovered the situation of theft where you have an employee sliding themselves into a dual supervisory position. That may or may not have come up, if signatures would have been noticed, et cetera, Jackley said.

Im just pointing that out, he continued. This scheme was a situation where what you generally had going on is an employee making a request, positioning themselves to also be that level of supervisory approval, intercepting checks, going to separate banks, switching at some level sources of those funds and resources  so the question is whether or not that would have been identified in either protocol reviews or an audit, and again, that is not my place.

State Auditor General Russell Olson met with the Legislatures Government Operations and Audit Committee on July 31 regarding the annual state government audit, which included a finding that Social Services hadnt followed proper safeguards. He was cautious about providing details, however.

Olson said the manual calls for a new claim to have a supervisors approval before payment is made, but controls werent adequate to prevent the person entering the claim from also approving the claim without further review.

Republican Rep. Tim Reisch asked, Is this the first time that this particular finding that someones who got the authority to request payment also has the authority to approve payment? Olson replied, If I could, I would prefer based on the fact theres ongoing litigation that the details of that not be discussed at this time.

Several other GOAC members hit Olson with related questions. Republican Rep. Hugh Bartels suggested the panel should take a different angle.

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I come out of the financial world that CPA audits similar to what these gentlemen do, and they do look at procedures and controls, and so do these gentlemen and ladies, and its done in a very professional manner. But I think the problem that theyre talking about now is an IT problem that normally isnt discovered when you review procedures, Bartels said.

If someone has too many permissions, thats not something that a financial audits gonna catch, he continued. In the financial world, we have what we call IT audits and we hire companies that dont even have CPAs in them to do them, to look for those types of problems. So I think this is probably something we need to adjust as we go forward and do some more IT-based audits and I think that pounding this to death isnt going to be very productive when its really two different types of reviews.

He went on, So thats just my knowledge of how audits work. Ive done it for forty-plus years, and they dont just look at those types of controls  and weve got a I think 38-year-old system, computer system, theyre running the state on and were in the process of a three-year project to update that. I think this committee going forward really needs to look at the controls that are being put in place on the new system and how those will be reviewed on a regular basis on who has permissions to do what. And I think thats the focus that this group should take.

Republican Sen. David Wheeler eventually circled back to Reischs original line. This finding came about because of a criminal investigation  is that correct?

This finding came about based on issues that were noticed that led to the investigation, yes, Olson replied.

From my understanding, Wheeler said, the process was that DSS noticed some problems, they got the attorney general involved, the attorney general got DLA involved, and then that whole process led to this finding?

Yes, Olson answered, again DSS  from the special review that we did, DSS became aware of it. Ourselves and the attorney general were informed immediately at that time and it was an ongoing thing that we looked at  but yes, it did expose a lack of internal control in their system that was addressed.

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Wheeler then asked, How long has this lack of internal control been in place? Replied Olson, At this time I would prefer not to (answer.)

Wheeler returned to another of Reischs questions. Has this lack of control been found in other places?

Olson answered, In other places other than where? This is part of a system that is used by DSS, the FACIS (Family and Children Information System.) And thats what this comment is addressed to There arent other agencies that use this system. This is a DSS system.

Wheeler said he was referring to the ability of one person to enter a claim and then approve it without any other employee also giving approval. Is that kind of lack of control been seen either in the department DSS specifically or other agencies? he asked.

Olson replied, Certainly if we would have found a situation like that or detected a situation like that we would have had a comment dealing with the other agencies that had those systems. Weve had various comments over the years that have dealt with internal controls, how things were set up, but specifically to this system, no.

The back and forth wound on. Eventually, Olson referred to a meeting between his office and other state government officials. It was requested at that time, he said, that we limit our discussions.

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Detectives ask for help to solve 1979 murder of Dayton woman found near Hoover Dam

Detectives are asking for the publics help solving a cold case murder after a Dayton woman was found dead near the Hoover Dam more than 40 years ago.

The woman was identified as 25-year-old Marion Berry Ouma, the granddaughter of Yellow Pages founder Loren Berry, the Mohave County Sheriffs Office said in a social media post.

On January 3, 1979 security officers saw a body down an embankment on Highway 93. The woman appeared to have a gunshot wound to her lower right abdomen, the sheriffs office said. It also appeared she had been dead for less than 12 hours.

An autopsy determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound to the head and abdomen from a .38 caliber weapon.

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The next day, a man told detectives that he and his wife had been driving on Highway 93 on the evening before in the area where the woman was found. He reported seeing a powder blue 1976-1977 Chevrolet Blazer or Ford Bronco with a removable hard top backed up to the guardrail. The front license plate was covered with a rag and had front-end chrome push bars, all-terrain tires, and a tall CB antenna on the right rear.

In February 1981, detectives were notified that a private investigator from Ohio had possibly identified the victim. Detectives met with the investigator, who provided a picture Ouma.

They observed that she bore a striking resemblance to the victim, the post said. She had been married in Africa and had lived there for a few years where she was a physical education teacher.

Detectives contacted her stepfather and mother who were sure it was Ouna. The identification was later confirmed through a comparison of fingerprints and dental charts.

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According to the sheriffs office, detectives learned an employee at a Las Vegas bank located at 4th Street and Carson Ave. had conducted two bank transactions with Ouma a few months prior to her death. She had visited the bank on November 28th and December 13th to obtain money from her savings account in Ohio.

Detectives learned she was living in an apartment in Las Vegas as well until she was asked to vacate in December 1978 for failure to pay rent.

SIU Detectives are seeking any information on Oumas whereabouts between the time she was last seen leaving the bank and when her body was found.

She is described as being approximately 55 and 106 lbs, with hazel eyes and brown hair that she often wore in a ponytail. She was wearing green sweatpants and a dark blue short-sleeve blouse, the sheriffs office said.

Detectives are also looking for a lead on the 1976-1977 powder blue Chevrolet Blazer or Ford Bronco seen in the area the night of Oumas murder.

Anyone with information can contact the Mohave County Sheriffs Office Special Investigations Unit at 928-753-0753 ext. 4408, reference DR# 79-022.

SIU HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION- NEAR HOOVER DAM The Mohave County Sheriffs Office Special Investigation Unit is requesting... Posted by Mohave County Sheriff's Office on Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Detectives ask for publics help in 45-year-old homicide investigation of woman found near Hoover Dam

LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The Mohave County Sheriffs Office Special Investigation Unit is asking for the publics help in a 45-year-old cold case homicide investigation of a woman who was found shot to death near the Hoover Dam.

On Jan. 3, 1979, at 9 a.m., Hoover Dam security officers found a body down an embankment on the U.S. 93 near mile marker 7. The victim appeared to have a gunshot wound to her lower abdomen and it appeared that she had been dead for less than 12 hours, MCSO said.

Her cause of death was determined to be a gunshot wound to the head and abdomen from a .38 caliber gun.

On Jan. 4, 1979, detectives spoke to a witness over the phone who said he and his wife were driving on U.S. 93 before 3 a.m., in the area where the victim was found when they saw a vehicle backed up to the guardrail.

The vehicle was described as a powder blue 1976-1977 Chevrolet Blazer or Ford Bronco with a removable hard top. The license plate was covered with a rag and it has front-end chrome push bars, all-terrain tires, and a tall CB antenna on the right rear, MCSO said

The witness said he saw no one around the vehicle all the doors were closed.

Detectives continued to investigate for months to identify the victim however all attempts for fingerprint identification were unsuccessful.

On Feb. 4, 1981, MCSO was notified by the Las Vegas Metro Police Department that a private investigator from Ohio possibly identified the victim. When detectives met with the investigator he provided a picture of Marion Berry Ouma from Dayton, Ohio.

Marion Berry Ouma (Mohave County Sheriffs Office)

Detectives said Ouma bore a striking resemblance to the victim found near the Hover Dam. She had been married in Africa and had lived there for a few years where she was a physical education teacher, according to MCSO.

Detectives were able to positively identify Ouma as the victim through fingerprints lifted from objects at her mothers house and dental charts.

On March 18, 1981, detectives went to a Las Vegas bank near 4th Street and Carson Avenue where they spoke to an employee who had conducted two bank transactions with Ouma a few months prior to her death. She went into the bank on Nov. 28 and Dec. 13 to get money from her savings account in Ohio, MCSO said.

On June 30, 1981, detectives went to her home at the Sierra Vista Apartments near University Center Driver and Desert Inn. Detectives discovered that Ouma arrived in a cab on Nov. 4, 1978 and rented an apartment. She was asked to vacate the property a month later for non-payment of rent, MCSO said.

During the investigation. detectives were contacted by various newspaper reporters in the Dayton, Ohio area saying that Oumas grandfather, Loren Berry, passed away on Feb. 19, 1980. Berry was the founder of the Yellow Pages telephone books and his estate was estimated at $500 million. Berry had left $40 million to his granddaughter, who had been unidentified at the time of his death.

Detectives are looking for any information on Oumas whereabouts between the time she was last seen leaving the bank on Dec. 13, 1978, and when her body was found on Jan. 3, 1979.

Ouma is described as a white woman 25 years old, approximately 55 and 106 pounds, with hazel eyes and brown hair that she often wore in a ponytail. At the time of her death, she was wearing green sweatpants and a dark blue short-sleeve blouse, MCSO said.

Detectives are also looking for a lead on the 1976-1977 powder blue Chevrolet Blazer or Ford Bronco seen in the area on the evening of Oumas murder

MCSO said, Despite the lapse of time, it is hoped that someone may still have valuable information that may lead to the identification of possible suspects.

Information can be submitted to MCSOs Special Investigations Unit at 928-753-0753 ext. 4408, reference DR# 79-022.

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Arizona detectives are seeking tips from the public more than four decades after a 25-year-old heiress was found shot to death near the Hoover Dam on the border between Nevada and Arizona.

It's been 45 years since the body of Marion Berry Ouma was found on an embankment near the highway, but no arrests have been made. Ouma inherited $40 million after her grandfather, Yellow Page founder Loren Berry, died, said the Mohave County Sheriff's Office Special Investigation Unit, the agency investigating the cold case. The sheriff's office said Berry was worth $500 million and one of his grandsons pegged the company's value at almost $1 billion when it was sold.

Yellow Pages heiress Marion Berry Ouma was found shot to death near the Hoover Dam in 1979. / Credit: Mohave County Sheriff's Office Special Investigation Unit

Authorities found Ouma's body on Jan. 3, 1979. They believed she had been dead for less than 12 hours, said the Mohave County Sheriff's Office. An autopsy revealed that the victim had been shot in the head and abdomen with a .38 caliber weapon, but investigators didn't know her identity at the time.

More than two years later detectives were notified by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department that a private investigator from Ohio had possibly identified the victim, the sheriff's office said. The investigator showed a photo to detectives and the similarities were striking.

Detectives contacted Ouma's mother and stepfather, Elizabeth and Robert Gray, who identified the body. The identity was confirmed later with dental records and fingerprints. CBS News has contacted the Dayton Police Department and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for more information.

Her parents told detectives that Ouma had gotten married in Africa, where she lived for a few years working as a physical education teacher. Authorities didn't provide clarification on whether the husband was a suspect or if he returned to the United States with Ouma. (Gray is Berry's daughter and sits on the family foundation's board.)

Detectives traveled to Las Vegas to conduct interviews and spoke with a bank employee who said Ouma had come into the bank on Nov. 28 and Dec. 13 to withdraw money from her savings account in Ohio. They then went to her home at Sierra Vista Apartments in Las Vegas, where the landlord told detectives she rented an apartment in November 1978 after arriving in a taxi with her belongings. A month later she was asked to vacate the apartment due to nonpayment of rent, the sheriff's office said.

Detectives described Ouma wearing green sweatpants and a dark blue short-sleeve blouse at the time of her death. She was around 5'5" and weighed 106 pounds and often wore her hair in a ponytail. Detectives said they are also looking for leads on a 1976-1977 powder blue Chevrolet Blazer or Ford Bronco seen in the area on the evening of the murder.

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WASHINGTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  Theres a new development in the case of a Washington County private school principal accused of sexual behavior with a student.

Holmes County Sheriffs officials said 28-year-old Aaron McFatter turned himself into jail Tuesday morning. He is charged with 1 count of Obscene Communications, use of a computer to seduce, solicit, or lure a child.

Washington County Principal arrested for sexually battering a student

Authorities said the charge relates to more photos exchanged between McFatter and a teenage girl. The victim claims McFatter molested her on April 23rd, while she was a student and he was the principal of Grace Fellowship Christian Academy in Washington County. She also claims the text messages began in December.

Washington County Sheriffs officials arrested Mcfatter on July 30th on sexual assault charges.

McFatter was released from the Washington County jail after posting a $50,000 bond. A judge in Holmes County set his bond Tuesday morning at $5,000, which he posted and has been released. McFatter is not allowed to have any contact with the victim.

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MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11)  A Department of Education worker is accused of groping a 13-year-old girl on a school bus in Manhattan on Tuesday, authorities said.

Jose Nunez, 61, allegedly sat next to the teen on the bus before wrapping his arm around her and touching her breasts outside 250 West Houston St., according to authorities. The girl shoved his arm away after the incident, police said.

Oh, Im sorry. I thought you were Kenny, the suspect said, according to the criminal complaint.

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The girls mom told PIX11 News her daughter is autistic and attends MS 297 on 75 Morton St. in the West Village.

Nunez, a Department of Education paraprofessional, was suspended and could be fired if convicted of the crime, according to a DOE spokesperson.

This alleged behavior is completely unacceptable There is nothing more important than the safety and well-being of our students, DOE spokesperson Jenna Lyle said in a statement.

Nunez was arrested and charged with sexual abuse, attempted sexual abuse, forcible touching, attempted sexual abuse, and endangering the welfare of a child, according to the criminal complaint.

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The defendant pleaded not guilty at his arraignment, according to court records. Prosecutors requested bail and the judge ordered supervised release.

His attorney could not immediately be reached Wednesday.

Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the NYC area for more than a decade. She joined PIX11 News in 2022. See more of her work here.

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By Sachin Ravikumar, Janis Laizans and Manon Cruz

LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) -For Liverpool's biggest mosque, it's been a week of firsts.

Most entrances have been blocked, men in high-vis jackets have been taking turns to patrol and a handful of worshippers have been sleeping inside at night  all necessary precautions, say officials at the Al-Rahma Mosque, during the UK's worst riots in years.

The increased vigilance comes as some Muslims and ethnic minorities in Liverpool say they feel unsafe amid widespread violent, racist protests targeting mosques, immigration centres and hotels that haven't spared the famously left-leaning city in the north of England.

Both mosque officials and other Muslims in Liverpool described feeling shocked, after two mosques further north in England were targeted by violent mobs and hundreds of anti-immigration protesters and counterprotesters clashed in central Liverpool. Shops were looted and some police were injured.

A second mosque in Liverpool, the Abdullah Quilliam, which describes itself as Britain's first, has temporarily closed due to the violence, which was fuelled by a false narrative spread online that the killer of three girls in nearby Southport last week was an Islamist migrant.

"I was born here, I was raised here. So seeing this, it just doesn't feel like home," said Abdulwase Sufian, a 20-year-old student who helps at the Al-Rahma, referring to himself as a "Scouser", the colloquial term for someone from Liverpool.

"Seeing what's happened, it's gotten me scared, not just for myself, but for the future," he said, the yellow dome and pink-and-yellow minarets of the Al-Rahma behind him as dozens of men finished afternoon prayers and left.

Sufian added that the separate female entrance for the mosque, which serves a wide range of Muslims from ethnic Yemeni to Pakistani, had been closed to discourage women from visiting in the evenings, out of safety concerns.

He himself hasn't stepped outside his immediate neighbourhood out of fears for his safety, Sufian said, a sentiment echoed by others in the community.

FEELING TERRIFIED

Saba Ahmed, a community worker and another Liverpudlian Muslim, said she had felt "terrified" in recent days, and her 15-year-old son was preferring to spend his summer holidays indoors on his PlayStation.

Still, many of Ahmed's white English friends had been supportive, she said, with some neighbours offering to do the grocery shopping for her so she could remain safe at home.

"That's our people in Liverpool, that's our fellow neighbours here," she said.

Others have been less fortunate.

Farmanullah Nasiri, a taxi driver, described being assaulted after picking up two passengers from Aigburth Road, Liverpool, in the early hours of Tuesday.

One of them, a woman, punched him on the face and broke his dashcam as she left his silver Ford Focus, after starting an argument over the fare and after abusing him once she learnt he was an ethnic Afghan, Nasiri said.

Nasiri, 28, says he did not file a police complaint.

A video shot at 0120 GMT on his iPhone showed a broken dashcam and blood above his right eye. Reuters was not able to verify his account of how it happened.

"This is kind of a racism ... Been here for more than 10 years in Liverpool. Everybody's friendly. There's no issue like this before. This is the first time," Nasiri said.

Tell MAMA, a group which monitors anti-Muslim incidents, has received over 500 calls and online reports of anti-Muslim behaviour from across the UK in the past week, a five-fold increase from the week before, its director Iman Atta told Reuters, describing Muslim communities as "terrorised."

Anti-Muslim hate has been growing in the UK even before the start of the riots, and particularly after the start of the conflict in Gaza last year, the group says.

Over one in four in a survey of 550 British Muslims last month said they had faced an anti-Muslim hate incident in the last year, Tell MAMA said.

'NOT JUST MUSLIMS'

Amid all the tension, Muslim community leaders are advising calm, at a time when many young men in the community might feel tempted to respond.

Footage from Sky News earlier this week showed a large group of mostly Asian men with Palestinian flags gathering in an area of Birmingham following rumours of a far-right protest at the site, which did not materialise. Police said a man was assaulted and a pub window was smashed, and have charged one man for possession of an offensive weapon.

The rival, counter protests have included both White and non-White people describing themselves as anti-racist, anti-fascist or pro-Palestinian. Sometimes extreme left-wing anarchists have also taken part.

Community leaders are discouraging such gatherings.

"We don't want these counter protests or these large groups of young people turning up because that's the spark that we don't need ... so we need to be very careful," said Sajjad Amin, trustee of the UKIM Khizra Mosque in Manchester, 30 miles (50 km) from Liverpool.

Some Muslim leaders recounted tensions being defused.

Adam Kelwick, an imam at the temporarily-closed Abdullah Quilliam mosque, said it had been "prepared for the worst" when anti-immigration demonstrators gathered outside last week, but protesters calmed down after offers of food and dialogue.

"All it took was a few burgers and some chips and some genuine intention from our side," he said, speaking from near the chained up gates of the Victorian-era mosque.

The Muslim population in England and Wales stood at 3.9 million people, or 6.5% of the total, as of 2021.

The heightened tension has unnerved both that community and others. On Tuesday evening rumours of a far-right gathering prompted shops on Lawrence Road to down their shutters early.

Local resident Santhosh Thomas, an ethnic Indian, helped chain up two large metal road signs to the fence of a nearby church, to discourage their use as weapons.

He said his brown skin made him a target, regardless of his religion. "It's not just Muslims ... everyone is scared," Thomas said, as a police van arrived on Lawrence Road.

(Reporting by Sachin Ravikumar; Additional reporting by Andy Bruce in Manchester; editing by Philippa Fletcher)
[Source]

Over two dozen dogs were found locked in a Bangkok house, having resorted to eating the remains of their deceased owner, 62-year-old Attapol Charoenpithak, in a desperate attempt to survive.

Charoenpithak had died from health complications and the dogs were trapped for at least a week before being rescued. Two of the 28 dogs had already died from starvation, but the surviving animals are now receiving care from the Voice Foundation.

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DOJ: Coeburn, Va. man sentenced to 20 years after buying, selling several pounds of meth weekly

COEBURN, Va. (WJHL)  A Coeburn man was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison on Wednesday for his role in conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of meth across Southwest Virginia.

According to a release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Virginia, Rodney Allen Pickett, 51, was sentenced on the charges below:

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One count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine

Three counts of distribution of methamphetamine

One count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine

One count of possession of a firearm and ammunition after being convicted of a felony

One count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime

One count of possession of firearm silencers

During Picketts trial, witnesses told the court that Pickett bought several pounds of meth every week, which he then sold to others for thousands of dollars. The release said a search of his home by officers resulted in the discovery of numerous firearms, silencers, magazines, hundreds of rounds of ammunition and more than 500 grams of meth.

Additionally, a drill press witnesses testified was used for making and altering firearms was found in Picketts kitchen area, the release states.

The case was investigated by the Southwest Virginia Drug Task Force, the Coeburn Police Department, the Wise County Sheriffs Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, according to the release.

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The DOJ says a man with Iranian ties in New York tried to hire hitmen, a female spy, and a fake protest mob to assassinate US officials

The DOJ says a man with Iranian ties in New York tried to hire hitmen, a female spy, and a fake protest mob to assassinate US officials

The DOJ said on Tuesday it's charged a Pakistani man with plotting assassinations of US officials.

Asif Merchant is accused of having ties to Iran and trying to hire hitmen in New York for the killings.

While the DOJ has not mentioned who was targeted, Donald Trump was reported to be one of those under threat.

The Justice Department has charged a Pakistani man who traveled to New York and Houston with planning the political assassination of US officials.

Asif Raza Merchant, 46, was arrested on July 12 and has been accused by federal prosecutors of having close ties with Iran's government.

The Justice Department said he'd planned to hire hitmen to carry out the assassinations, as well as a woman who would perform "reconnaissance" and 25 people who would stage a protest as a distraction after the killings.

The DOJ's complaint, unsealed on Tuesday, did not mention who Merchant was targeting. But CNN and Reuters reported, each citing an anonymous source familiar with the matter, that authorities believed former President Donald Trump was one of those under threat.

A 20-year-old gunman had tried to kill Trump on July 13  a day after Merchant was arrested  in Butler, Pennsylvania. No evidence has been revealed to suggest that the attack was linked to Merchant.

While the DOJ did not explicitly say Merchant was working with Iran, FBI Director Christopher Wray said the case was "straight out of the Iranian playbook."

Multiple other officials, including the FBI Special Agent in charge of Merchant's case, also referenced Iran's threats against the US government in the statement and court documents.

The US has been concerned about retaliation from Iran for a 2020 drone strike under Trump's order that killed Gen. Qasem Soleimani, a top leader in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Iran's Mission to the United Nations and Ministry for Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to requests for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider.

Merchant's plans, as told by the DOJ

Prosecutors said Merchant had spent time in Iran before arriving in the US in April and also frequently traveled to Syria and Iraq. Officials also said he mentioned having a wife and children in Iran.

According to the criminal complaint filed against him, Merchant said he intended to target "the ones who are hurting Pakistan and the world, Muslim world."

His first stop was Houston, where he contacted a person under the pretense of wanting to start a business, according to the document.

However, that unnamed person suspected something was amiss and went to law enforcement, becoming an informant.

Investigators said Merchant then flew to New York that month to meet with the informant, saying the latter could make up to $100,000 for their help with his plans. To show his intention, Merchant made a "finger gun" motion with his hand, per prosecutors.

The informant later introduced Merchant to two men whom he thought were prospective hitmen, but were actually undercover cops, according to prosecutors.

The document said he introduced himself as a "representative" of parties abroad and implied that he was taking instructions to "finalize" his plans and leave the US.

Prosecutors said Merchant met multiple times with the undercover officers, asking them to speak in code.

He said he would likely relay instructions to them through a secure cellphone in August or September 2024 and gave them $5,000 in cash as an advance payment, per the criminal complaint.

The DOJ added that Merchant had also asked the men to steal documents, arrange the fake protest, and launder money.

Officials said he was arrested in Texas after returning to the state to fly out of the US, where his briefcase was found to contain a note detailing all of his code words. Merchant is in federal custody, and the FBI is investigating the case, officials said.

CNN reported that before the Butler rally assassination attempt, officials had passed this intelligence obtained from Merchant to the Secret Service.

Trump's campaign was previously reported to have received enhanced security after obtaining information about an Iranian plot to kill the former president.

The fact that a young gunman was still able to fire on Trump at the rally prompted questions about protection efforts for the former president.

The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Tom Sims and Frank Siebelt

FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Shares of Germany's Commerzbank fell as much as 6% on Wednesday after it reported larger than expected loan loss provisions in the second quarter.

The stock price drop came despite the bank announcing plans for a 600 million euro ($654.48 million) share buyback as it met net profit expectations. S&P also upgraded the lender's credit rating.

Commerzbank, one of Germany's best-known banks, is partially held by the government after a bailout more than a decade ago, since when it has spent much of the time undergoing a major overhaul, slashing its workforce and branch network to restore profit.

Analysts at Deutsche Bank and JPMorgan called the results, which showed a 4.8% drop in net profit from a year earlier, solid.

"However, the extent of the provision losses will disappoint some," analysts at KBW wrote in a client note.

The bank reported provisions for loan losses in the second quarter of 199 million euros, more than the 161 million euros analysts had been expecting and a figure it said was influenced by troubles at a handful of clients. It didn't identify them.

At the same time, the bank's leadership signalled economic headwinds in its home market.

"We expect GDP to pick up a bit later than originally expected," said CEO Manfred Knof.

Second quarter net profit of 538 million euros compared with 565 million euros a year earlier and average analyst expectations of 539 million euros, according to a July consensus forecast published by the German lender.

The drop came as net interest income fell and as the bank booked expenses related to a long-standing issue with mortgage loans at its Polish unit and litigation in Russia.

The bank nevertheless confirmed its forecast for a full-year profit of more than last year's 2.2 billion euros.

Shares were 4% lower in early afternoon trading. Global stock markets have been volatile in recent sessions amid concerns that the U.S. economy could fall into recession.

S&P meanwhile upgraded the bank to A/A-1 from A-/A-2, saying it was "delivering stronger and more consistent" profits.

The bank said it had sought approval with its regulators for a first tranche of a share buyback programme, and said it plans to apply for a second tranche with its third-quarter results later this year.

($1 = 0.9168 euros)

(Reporting by Tom Sims and Frank Siebelt; editing by Ludwig Burger, Sherry Jacob-Phillips and Ana Nicolaci da Costa, Kirsten Donovan)
(Bloomberg) -- As leaders across Latin America sweep aside constitutional term limits to cling to power, the Dominican Republic is pushing changes to make it harder for authoritarians to stay in office.

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President Luis Abinader said he will introduce constitutional amendments Aug. 16 to bar future presidents from extending their own terms. This would lock in the current system that only allows two consecutive four-year terms, he said.

The idea of the indispensable man has often permeated Dominican politics, leading to dictatorships and authoritarian governments, Abinader told reporters on Monday.

The country was run by a dictator, Rafael Trujillo, from 1930 until his assassination in 1961, and had indefinite reelection through 1994. In 2002, President Politico Mejia changed the constitution while he was in office to run for a second term, but lost.

This century, leaders in Colombia, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Honduras, Ecuador and Bolivia have all sought to change or override restrictions on reelection.

Most recently, El Salvadors supreme electoral tribunal allowed President Nayib Bukele to run for reelection in February despite constitutional prohibitions.

In Venezuela, late President Hugo Chavez oversaw changes to the constitution from 1999 to allow reelection, then did away with term limits entirely in 2009, paving the way for Nicolas Maduro to run for a third term in last months contested and controversial vote.

Abinaders proposal will have to be approved by congress, where he has a large majority. He said that of the 39 constitutional reforms that the Dominican Republic has seen, 31 changed election laws often with nefarious results.

Abinader, who won reelection this year in a landslide, said he will also be presenting amendments that will cut the number of national deputies from 190 to 137, and safeguard the independence of the justice department.

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Former President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he will sit for a MAJOR INTERVIEW with billionaire Elon Musk next week as the race for the White House heats up.

Trump made the announcement in a post on his Truth Social platform, hours after Vice President Kamala Harris revealed Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz would be her running mate.

ON MONDAY NIGHT ILL BE DOING A MAJOR INTERVIEW WITH ELON MUSK  Details to follow! Trump wrote.

Last month, Musk, who has endorsed Trump for the presidency, dismissed reports saying he planned to give $45 million a month to a pro-Trump super PAC, calling them ridiculous.

I am making some donations to America PAC, but at a much lower level and the key values of the PAC are supporting a meritocracy & individual freedom, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, in late July. Republicans are mostly, but not entirely, on the side of merit & freedom.

Musk was also reportedly one of those who privately pressed Trump to select Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) as his running mate.

Meanwhile, over the weekend, Trump claimed he had an apparent change of heart on electric vehicles because of Musk. Musk is the CEO of Tesla, one of the biggest EV companies in the world.

Trump has in the past blasted President Joe Bidens EV push, saying it would be a bloodbath for U.S. companies.

Im for electric cars, I have to be because Elon endorsed me very strongly, Trump told a rally in Atlanta on Saturday.

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ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Drivers are warned that part of the New York State Thruway will undergo a $6 million resurfacing project in Ontario and Seneca counties.

The project includes full repairs on I-90 eastbound and westbound between Exit 42 (Geneva, Lyons, Rt. 14) and Exit 44 (Canandaigua, Victor, Rt. 332). Crews will conduct pavement repairs on nearly 20 miles of the Thruway.

Repaving project on NYS Thruway west of Rochester

In addition, crews will be adding new reflective line striping and roadway delineators on the shoulder of the road. The project is expected to be finished in the Fall of 2025.

Drivers can expect lane closures in this area. There will be posted speed limits as construction starts. All work is weather-dependent and subject to change.

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SAN FRANCISCO  (KRON)  Since the introduction of Proposition E  a measure granting greater access to surveillance technology for police  SFPD has since incorporated six safety drones to help fight crime. On Tuesday, local officials such as San Francisco Mayor London Breed and SFPD Chief Bill Scott called the incorporation of the drones a game changer.

SFPD investigates fatal three-way shooting, 2 hospitalized

This is about being smarter on crime by giving our officers the tools to better do their jobs. For too long, San Francisco chose to stand in the way of this kind of progress, but now thanks to the voters, we are delivering real change and modernizing our police force, Breed said, claiming SF is experiencing its lowest overall crime rates in over a decade.

SFPD Chief Scott admitted to not expecting a dramatic change with Prop Es incorporation, but he has since corrected himself, calling the incorporation of drones and License Plate Readers (ALPRs) transformative.

According to Chief Scott, car break-ins, which have plagued the city for decades, are down 57% compared to last year, over 7,000 fewer than in 2023.

This technology is only as good as the people who use it, who use it effectively and fairlyWe believe in all of our hearts that this is a game changer And we believe that, although crime is the lowest its been a decade, we can continue to drive down crime even further, Scott said.

Drone footage which allegedly helped District Attorney Brooke Jenkins further charge some of SFPDs recent arrest suspects. Photo: SFPD

Drone footage which allegedly helped District Attorney Brooke Jenkins further charge some of SFPDs recent arrest suspects. Photo: SFPD

Drone footage which allegedly helped District Attorney Brooke Jenkins further charge some of SFPDs recent arrest suspects. Photo: SFPD

Drone footage which allegedly helped District Attorney Brooke Jenkins further charge some of SFPDs recent arrest suspects. Photo: SFPD

District Attorney Brooke Jenkins believes San Francisco was far behind the curve regarding surveillance technology. In an SFPD briefing on Tuesday, she praised the agencys efforts with safety drones as witnessing the wave of the future.

Jenkins claims drones not only help police with arrests but have also helped her office charge alleged criminals further. The drones are capturing evidence that my office can use in the courtroom in our fight for justice for residents, Jenkins said.

SFPD shared the following specific case in praise of the incorporation of safety drones:

On July 26, officers responded to two suspects on dirt bikes breaking into cars around the Embarcadero. A drone was able to follow the suspects and locate their position so our officers could move in for the arrests to prevent a car chase.

The following day, undercover officers identified a car theft crew boosting cars in the same area. With help from the drone, SFPD located the suspects, spiked their tires, placed them under arrest, and recovered all the stolen property.

In both incidents, Jenkins was able to file criminal charges, and both cases are being prosecuted and are pending before the court.

Scott claims that SFPD is not violating any state laws by deploying the safety drones. According to Scott, any footage not related to criminal evidence will automatically be wiped away within 30 days. He said any police officer operating a drone is also required to be FAA-certified.

Photo: SFPD

SFPD said it hopes to expand from the six drones currently in operation. This is the first time SFPD has had air support in 24 years.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Drones from five Lithuanian companies have been successfully tested in Ukraine. Contracts may be signed with these companies.

Source: Ministry of Defence of Lithuania, cited by European Pravda

Details: The Lithuanian Defence Ministry reported that Ukraine has repeatedly tested drones from five Lithuanian manufacturers in conditions close to combat use. Before that, the drones were upgraded in accordance with the commentaries of the Ukrainian side following the first testing.

At this stage, the drones provided by five Lithuanian companies showed good results.

In the near future, the Lithuanian manufacturers who participated in the testing will receive the invitation to submit final propositions and may receive contracts.

"Ukrainians are sharing their experience of deploying drones in the battlefield, testing the drones from our manufacturers, and then, having chosen the most suitable options, they will sign contracts with the companies. This is a great incentive and a big step forward for our drone manufacturers," Laurynas Kasciunas, Minister of Defence of Lithuania.

The Lithuanian Defence Ministry communique notes that Lithuanian drones worth 5 million will be transferred to support Ukraine, and the same drones will be purchased for the Lithuanian army for 3 million.

Recently, Lithuania has started to actively work on the full-fledged integration of the most advanced unmanned systems into the army, taking into account the experience of the Russo-Ukrainian war. In the summer of 2024, the contracts for the procurement of different drone types were signed, specifically with the Lithuanian manufacturer Edge Autonomy and the Estonian Threod Systems. The procurement is being carried out under an urgent procedure.

The success of drone operator training courses is also increasing in Lithuania: all the spots were taken until New Year, a week after the registration started.

By the autumn, the Lithuanian government plans to launch a platform, via which Lithuanians will be able to donate to the defence needs of the country.

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The Arizona Department of Education has continued to pressure schools to keep English learners out of dual language programs while an anti-dual language lawsuit initiated by the superintendent of public instruction is pending.

The department recently sent a letter to schools that "recommends" they get parental waivers for English learners participating in dual language programs while a lawsuit Superintendent Tom Horne filed in March against the Creighton Elementary School District is pending.

The department's letter runs counter to what the Arizona Board of Education says. The board has stated that under Arizona law, no parental waivers are required for English learners to take part in board-approved dual language programs, where students spend half the day learning in English and half the day learning in another language, most commonly Spanish.

The Department of Education also recently took "corrective action" against seven school districts for allowing English learners to participate in dual language programs without parental waivers. The department then backed off after school officials complained to the Board of Education they were being wrongly penalized, said Sean Ross, the executive director.

The department told the board it had made an error "and that they had rectified the error right away," Ross said. The Board of Education circled back with the school districts, which confirmed they had received a letter from the department admitting "we inadvertently penalized schools for using the (dual language) model and not having a waiver," Ross said.

The Department of Education's recent actions against school districts underscore the ongoing battle by Horne, a staunch supporter of English-only immersion, to bar English learners from participating in dual language programs.

Arizona has a large number of English learners  about 100,000, according to the Arizona Department of Education. Most are from immigrant or refugee households and are not yet proficient in English based on test scores.

In 2020, the Board of Education approved dual language programs as one of four models for teaching English learners in Arizona. The other three models are based on English immersion, which Horne believes is more effective for teaching English learners.

The Board of Education came up with the four new models based on research after the Republican-controlled Legislature unanimously passed, and former Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican, signed a 2019 law intended to give school districts more flexibility in teaching English learners.

The law was prompted by data that showed English learner students were falling behind academically and not learning English quickly under an old model approved under Proposition 203. The ballot initiative, passed by 60% of voters in 2000, mandates English learners be taught only in English until they become proficient.

Horne maintains that under Proposition 203 English learners are prohibited from participating in dual language programs unless they qualify for parental waivers.

Horne filed a lawsuit in 2023 that sought to bar English learners from participating in programs where students learn in two languages. A judge tossed out that lawsuit in March.

Shortly after, Horne's wife, Carmen Chenal Horne, filed a second lawsuit in Maricopa County Superior Court on behalf of a Scottsdale parent who claims the Creighton Elementary School District in Phoenix is violating Proposition 203 by allowing English learners to participate in dual language programs without parental waivers.

Creighton was one of seven school districts placed under "corrective action" in the spring after audits conducted by Department of Education monitors found the districts allowed English learners to participate in dual language programs without parental waivers, said Adela Santa Cruz, a deputy associate superintendent who oversees English language acquisition services.

The other school districts are the Glendale Elementary School District, the Kyrene Elementary School District in Tempe, the Phoenix Elementary School District, the Mesa Unified School District and the Laveen Elementary School District, Santa Cruz said. The Mexicayotl Academy of Excellence, which runs charter schools in Nogales and Tucson, was also placed under corrective action, which requires schools to come up a plan to correct non-compliance of state or federal requirements, Santa Cruz said.

The Department of Education later reversed course and notified four of the seven school districts that corrective action for possible dual language program violations had been suspended pending the lawsuit's outcome, Santa Cruz said. They are the Phoenix Elementary, Mesa Unified, Laveen Elementary and Creighton Elementary, Santa Cruz said.

The remaining three  Glendale Elementary, Kyrene and Mexicayotl Academy of Excellence  remain under "corrective action" for non-compliance issues related to their English language immersion programs not their dual language programs, Santa Cruz said.

Santa Cruz said the Department of Education still believes school districts can't allow English learners to be in dual language programs without waivers under Proposition 203 but decided to suspend corrective action while litigation is pending that could decide the issue.

"We are waiting for the  answer that will come after that court case," Santa Cruz said.

Requiring English learners to have parental waivers limits the number of students participating because of all the requirements to receive the waiver, supporters of dual language programs say.

The Republic reached out to all seven school districts seeking comment.

At least one school district, Phoenix Elementary School District, has stopped offering dual language programs temporarily in response to the Department of Education's actions.

Parents were informed in May that the dual language program has been paused for the 2024-2025 school year, said Nicole Baker, executive director of communications, marketing and community relations.

The district's dual language program was offered at Herrera Elementary School, Baker said. About 250 students participated, including 60 English learners, Baker said.

The district will use the 2024-2025 school year to address compliance issues and to enhance the quality of the dual language program, Baker said.

"We value Dual Language Immersion and will take necessary and proactive steps to develop a strong, research-based program that will meet both ADE requirements and our own high standards of excellence," Baker said in a written statement. "We are committed to creating a model that will set the standard for dual language immersion education statewide."

Laveen school district Superintendent Jeff Sprout said in an email that the district "follows the State Board of Education's approved Structured English Immersion models."

Adriana Parsons, a Glendale Elementary School District spokesperson, declined to comment because of the pending litigation.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Education Dept. penalizes schools over dual language, then backs off
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Dubai International Airport saw a record 44.9 million travelers pass through its terminals in the first half of this year, putting the world's busiest airport for international travel back on track to beat its all-time record, as aviation booms after the coronavirus pandemic.

The results released on Wednesday follow a record-breaking annual profit for the long-haul carrier Emirates that calls the airport  known as DXB  its home. The results come as Dubai plans to move operations to a nearly $35 billion new airfield in the next decade.

Meanwhile, a real-estate boom and its highest-ever tourism numbers have made the city-state in the United Arab Emirates not just a layover, but also a destination for even more travelers.

Before the pandemic, 60% of people coming through the airport were actually transiting to other cities and countries. We've now got 60% coming to the city and 40% in transit, Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths told The Associated Press. That is obviously very good because it means that traffic to the city is very dynamic and buoyant, he added.

The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018, its busiest-ever year before the pandemic. Sixty-six million passengers passed through in 2022 and 86.9 million passengers in 2023.

We are headed for a forecast number for the balance of the year of 91.8 million passengers, which is again another record for us, Griffiths added.

DXB long has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of Dubai. The UAE and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

Travelers from India passed through DXB terminals in the largest numbers through the first half of the year, followed by Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.

Passengers transiting from China notably surged to about one million, an 80% increase over the same period last year, yet levels remain below those seen before the pandemic.

That has seen whiplash at an airport briefly shut during the pandemic to one now straining from the traffic. In April, Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced plans to move DXB's operations to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) at Dubai World Central, an airfield in the city's southern reaches whose development had been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdoms 2009 economic crisis.

The goal of expanding Al Maktoum International really is to try and get the airport there capable of supporting something like 260 million passengers when fully developed. Now, clearly at DXB, we are limited on the land space that we've got available, Griffiths said. We probably have another 5 to 10 years (of) growth left at DXB, but beyond that, we will need growth at DWC phase two.

Plans call for a curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, officials say. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic. But since then, it has slowly returned to life with cargo and private flights. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubais plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

___

Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell contributed to this report.
Shortly after President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 race and immediately boosted Vice President Kamala Harris, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan endorsed her. Duggan, known for pulling in federal resources and his strong rapport with Biden, has yet to declare whether he will seek another term to manage a challenged city or hand the task over to a new leader.

Duggan and Bidens tight alliance benefited each others policy portfolios in numerous ways. Duggan was able to acquire new amenities, such as buses, and snatch nearly $1 billion in federal money; Biden got help with voter turnout, his push for electric vehicle infrastructure and maintaining former President Barack Obama's commitment to the city.

After Biden dropped out of the race and without certainty about Duggans political future, despite widespread belief that hes considering a gubernatorial run, city leaders and residents are left to wonder about Detroit's relationship with the White House after Biden.

Duggan has said that if Harris, the Democratic nominee vying for the presidency, secures Bidens seat, then the city will be in good hands because of her shared commitment with the president toward recovering Detroits post-bankruptcy losses.

President Joe Biden is greeted by Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan at the Detroit Metro Airport on July 12, 2024. Mandi Wright, Detroit Free Press

"The Biden-Harris team has brought Detroit's recovery back 10 years ahead of time," Duggan previously told the Free Press. Shes totally on top of the issues Ive managed. She's advocated for the issues for the city of Detroit and she's a good friend. I've met with her numerous times in Washington, D.C. In fact, it seems like any time I'm there, she makes it a point to want to talk about what's going on.

Trump didn't visit, mostly ignored Detroit

During former President Donald Trumps term, Duggan recently said, the two did not have a good relationship, nor did the president visit the city. Rip Rapson, president and chief executive officer of Kresge Foundation  which invests millions into the city annually  said that the Trump administration essentially ignored Detroit and provided nothing comparable to what the city experienced during the Obama years.

Should Trump win, local communities and organizations will have to mobilize, he said. Rapson praised Duggan and said the city would need a mayor of his "caliber" to continue to find ways to boost disadvantaged areas.

I know he has his critics, and I know he can be difficult in any number of ways, but every time you flip to the other side of the ledger, there's just all of these positives about what he has done, and what he has done in a way that many others couldn't have done, Rapson said.

Detroit mayor must be 'cheerleader in chief'

Rapson was involved in numerous meetings with politicians, staffers, billionaire investors and, primarily, former President Obamas Cabinet in an effort to prioritize investments in key areas of the city. Detroit has a history of partnering with philanthropic organizations to fund city services, including public greenways, the M-1 Rail streetcar system, and other whopping investments in neighborhoods.

Although a personal relationship between the mayor and president can benefit the city, the next mayor will need to do more to make strides in supplying financial resources for Detroit, Rapson said.

Youve got to have a mayor at the center of these things that helps set priorities, that helps create a sense of legitimacy for the community about how were spending dollars, that pulls people together in common purpose, all the things mayors have to do, and who has to kind of be the cheerleader in chief, Rapson said. You just have to hope those things will be true for the next mayor.

Current prospects who have filed candidate committees for the mayoral seat lack Duggan's links to the White House. Those potential candidates include Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield and ex-businessman Joel Haashiim.

A former Duggan cabinet official familiar with the inner workings of the mayors relationship to federal partners, who watched him navigate Obamas presidency, pointed out that their strong tie was partially due to the broadcasting power Detroit held among Black and Arab American voters.

The former administration official shared sentiments similar to Rapson's  that the mayor, if Duggan leaves office, must be attentive in cultivating reform and progress.

Obama's commitment to 'such an iconic city'

I think the next mayor is going to have the challenge of what their relationship to the prior mayors leadership was, because its hard to follow somebody like that, politically. I think a lot of attention needs to be paid to the appointments and who and how the next generation of leadership interacts. Those relationships can be important, the official said.

Rapson recalled, years back, when his phone rang from Obamas domestic policy team. An official told him, I just got out of a Cabinet meeting with President Obama and the other Cabinet members, and the president pounded the table and said, I will not permit Detroit to become the Katrina on my watch. And over the next couple of years, they dispatched people here.

Former President Barack Obama participated in a fireside chat with Kresge CEO and President Rip Rapson as part of the foundations centennial celebration on June 11, 2024 at the Detroit Institute of the Arts.

He asked multiple Obama aides why they were adamant about investing in Detroits resurgence, in which they replied, "Because this is such an iconic city," Rapson said,

"I said, Yeah, but you know, there are lots of iconic cities. Basically, I think they thought that there was something so powerfully symbolic about the rise and the fall, and the potential rise again of Detroit that they just couldn't ignore it, Rapson said.

Current White House adviser Tom Perez, who was recently in the city boosting the Joe Louis Greenway alongside Duggan, told the Free Press the city embodies the spirit of America, and pointed to an executive order pushing equity in underserved communities.

We understand all too many communities of color have been left out, and that was a big reason why the president issued his executive order on equity, Day One. Mayor Duggan and others have really gone to school on that, Perez said.

Connecting White House with philanthropy to boost Detroit

From then on, Rapson was among the voices of the philanthropic community relaying Detroits needs to federal partners, particularly after devising a white paper report, which Gene Sperling, economic adviser to the Obama and Biden administrations, circulated and established task forces around the categories Kresge created, he said. Rapson also created a conceptual drawing dubbed Reimagining Detroit of nine investable areas from 2008 to 2013, ranging from transit, to education, arts, land use and corridor redevelopment, which Cabinet members, including then-Vice President Biden, discussed.

He went to Washington, walked into a conference room in the White House and saw nearly every Cabinet member, several officials from the public and private sectors, including billionaire investors and discussed ways to make federal money available for demolitions, blight removal, the light rail and more.

My favorite story in that meeting was at the very end, the guy who ran IT for the White House, very quiet guy, and he spoke up and said, You know, I don't have any money. I don't have a grant budget the way these other guys do, but what I can do is pull together the top IT people  we could spend two days working in Detroit to try to figure out how to get your IT system into the next generation. Because at that point, we were still working off note cards, Rapson said. They just jumped right over into sort of next-generation IT work and Detroit developed one of the most sophisticated municipal IT practices in the country.

Senior White House official Tom Perez makes comments after touring the Joe Louis Greenway site in Detroit on July 29, 2024. Mandi Wright, Detroit Free Press

Sperling pushed Rapson to put forth more commitments from local philanthropy and urge the other organizations to contribute to show the federal government is not the only one supplying the citys needs. Eventually, financial commitments grew. Perez was part of the Detroit subcabinets in the Obama administration.

One thing I learned about Detroit a long time ago is there's a rich history of philanthropy here, Perez told the Free Press. The hardest part about this is getting it going, because there's always  that initial getting off the ground, because you have to overcome skepticism.

Detroits previous mayors held ties to the White House, but in the post-bankruptcy era, you had a lot of people who knew the work and knew the history, and knew what the Obama folks had done to try to be helpful to stabilize Detroit, including the vice president, who became president, Rapson added.

This was an administration that has a long and deep sense of Detroit as an iconic city, Rapson said. When Mayor Duggan was able to forge that personal working relationship with Biden, it didnt come out of nowhere. This is not just because the two of them are buddies.

Then former Vice President Joe Biden, who had launched his presidential campaign months earlier, sits next to NAACP Detroit Branch President Rev. Wendell Anthony in a booth with Mayor Mike Duggan and Biden's sister Valerie Biden Owens at Detroit One Coney Island in Detroit on Aug. 1, 2019.

Detroit has an unusual ecology of the public and private sectors and the philanthropic sector working together.

It has gotten into the federal water system that something really unusual is happening in Detroit. When you combine that with its iconic quality, and the sort of notion that we're not going to let Detroit fail because it's such an important city, and then you combine that with the sense that it is a well-run city, and that Duggan knows exactly what he's doing  I think this administration, whether it's led by President Biden  or Vice President Harris, is going to continue its commitment to the city, Rapson said.

Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: dafana@freepress.com. Follow her: @DanaAfana.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Duggan's rapport with Biden White House will end: What Detroit must do
Image source: The Motley Fool.

Coupang (NYSE: CPNG)

Q2 2024 Earnings Call

Aug 06, 2024, 5:30 p.m. ET

Contents:

Prepared Remarks

Questions and Answers

Call Participants

Prepared Remarks:





Operator

Hello, everyone. My name is Krista, and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to the Coupang 2024 second quarter earnings conference call. All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise.

After the speaker's remarks, there will be a question-and-answer session. All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise. After the speaker's remarks, there will be a question and answer session [Operator instructions] Now I'd like to turn the call over to Mike Parker, vice president of investor relations. You may begin your conference.

Mike Parker -- Vice President, Investor Relations

Thanks, operator. Welcome, everyone, to Coupang's second quarter 2024 earnings conference call. I'm pleased to be joined on the call today by our founder and CEO, Bom Kim; and our CFO, Gaurav Anand. The following discussion, including responses to your questions, reflects management's views as of today's date only.

We do not undertake any obligation to update or revise this information except as required by law. Certain statements made on today's call include forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially. Additional information about factors that could potentially impact our financial results is included in today's press release and in our filings with the SEC, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and subsequent filings.

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During today's call, we may present both GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures. Additional disclosures regarding these non-GAAP measures, including reconciliations of these measures to the most comparable GAAP measures are included in our earnings release, our slides accompanying this webcast, and our SEC filings, which are posted on the company's investor relations website. And now I'll turn the call over to Bom.

Story continues

Bom Kim -- Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Thanks, everyone, for joining us today. Before we dive into the results for Q2, here are three takeaways from another strong quarter. First, our results continue to be driven by years of investment and innovation to provide what we believe is the best retail customer experience on the planet. Second, our focus on innovation and operational excellence helps us break traditional trade-offs so we can provide that superior customer experience at the lowest cost and in turn, strengthen growth and profitability.

One example, we delivered the vast majority of our fresh orders using eco-bags that replaced almost all of the delivery-related disposable packaging. That saves us packaging costs, helps the environment, and allows us to provide free delivery within hours and do so profitably. That's just one example of how we strive to provide the best customer experience at the lowest cost and generate growth while expanding profitability, not one at the expense of the other. Third, our developing offerings are generating strong growth and exciting momentum for the future.

Our historical investments in product commerce were misunderstood at the time, but today, helped generate the strong growth in cash flows you see each quarter. We believe our investments in developing offerings are building the next set of offerings that will further compound our growth and cash flow generation in the future. Now, a few numbers to highlight from our second quarter performance. This quarter, we grew constant currency revenues 30% over last year or 23% excluding Farfetch, which we acquired in Q1 of this year.

And adjusting for the fulfillment and logistics by Coupang, or FLC accounting change we began in Q2 of last year, the growth would have been 660 bps higher than the 23% constant currency growth rate, excluding Farfetch. Our product commerce active customers grew 12% year over year. It's important to note, however, that while new customers contribute to future growth, our growth today and tomorrow is powered primarily by the increasing spend of our existing customers, and we believe our future growth opportunity is massive and largely untapped. Because we still account for a small percentage of overall retail spend, even of our oldest and best customer cohorts.

That's why all of our customer cohorts continue to increase their spend, even our oldest and highest spending cohorts. We can't stress enough how small a share we are of the massive and highly fragmented $560 billion commerce opportunity in the market and how early we are in that journey. This quarter, we saw the growth in our marketplace, which includes both third-party and FLC, significantly outpace the growth of our overall business. For the 13th consecutive quarter, our marketplace sales have grown faster than our first-party sales.

Marketplace sellers are, not only growing faster than our first party, they're also growing exponentially faster than the overall Korean retail market. Many of these marketplace sellers who have enjoyed this tremendous growth are SMEs, and that doesn't include sellers who were once SMEs but are now large businesses, thanks to the growth they've enjoyed on Coupang. We're proud that we've helped over 9,000 SMEs graduate from SME status since 2020. We continue to invest in services that power that marketplace growth and FLC's growth trajectory is worth highlighting.

In Q2, the number of sellers joining FLC grew 25% quarter over quarter and over 150% year over year. Now, a few words on developing offerings. We continue to be pleased with the progress and momentum we're seeing in Eats, where customer adoption continues on its strong trajectory since we launched our WOW free delivery program last quarter, and merchants are benefiting from that growth. In just three months, restaurants on Coupang, on average, have seen a nearly 30% growth in volumes.

In Taiwan, we're focused on breaking the same trade-offs for the Taiwanese customer that we did for the Korean customer to win their loyalty and trust. Our conviction of the potential in Taiwan is as strong as ever. On a side note, while Korean products are just part of the assortment that we offer to customers in Taiwan, we're enabling tens of thousands of Korean companies to get their products to Taiwanese consumers, and our growth has helped triple their total sales volumes this year over last year. On Farfetch, as we stated last quarter, our goal is to generate close to positive adjusted EBITDA on a run rate basis by the end of the calendar year.

We're executing to plan and is on track to achieve these goals for the year so far. Though we're still in the very early stages of our journey, we're excited about Farfetch's progress and potential. It's important to highlight that in the markets we serve, we see massive potential that is still largely untapped. And our strategy to capture that potential has been unwavering.

Disciplined investment and operational excellence to deliver customer wow, the best selection, service, and savings for our customers. We believe to our core that the happiness of our customers is the key to maximizing opportunities in the long term for our suppliers, merchants, employees, and shareholders. Now I'll turn the call over to Gaurav to review our results in greater detail.

Gaurav Anand -- Chief Financial Officer

Thanks, Bom. This quarter, we saw a continuation of the strong momentum across our business that we reported in Q1. In Q2, we again delivered robust growth in revenue, product commerce active customers, gross profit, and adjusted EBITDA. As we go through the numbers, I want to remind everyone of our acquisition of Farfetch that was completed at the end of January this year.

Q2 represents the first quarter consolidating three full months of Farfetch operating results with no Farfetch financials included in the prior-year comp. Wherever possible, I will provide results for the quarter with and without Farfetch to highlight the performance of our existing business and the impact from the Farfetch acquisition. Our total net revenues grew 25% year over year in Q2 or 18%, excluding the impact of Farfetch. Adjusting for the effects of changes in foreign currency, total net revenue grew 30% or 23% excluding Farfetch.

As a reminder, beginning in Q2 last year, we made certain changes to FLC revenue accounting, changing the accounting from gross to net on a prospective basis. Adjusting for the impact of this change, the growth would have been 660 bps higher than the 23% constant currency growth rate excluding Farfetch. Within our product commerce segment, Q2 revenues grew 13% year over year or 18% in constant currency. This growth rate would have been 680 bps higher after adjusting for the FLC accounting change.

With the total retail spend in Korea growing at just 1%, Coupang continues to be a growing value destination for consumers and the primary source of consistent growth for sellers and suppliers in Korea. Net revenues per product commerce active customers grew 5% over the year in constant currency. This includes the short-term dilutive impact of the large number of new product commerce active customers we have added over the last two quarters, as well as the impact of the FLC accounting change. The impact of new customers are dilutive because new customers spent less initially, but we have seen their spend levels grow in line with the trajectory of older cohorts over time.

It's important to note that the vast majority of our growth is powered by increasing spend of our existing customers. We continue to see the spend levels of all our cohorts increase, even our oldest and highest spending. We believe there is still a long runway for growth, given that we account for a small percentage of their overall retail spend. As we have shared previously, we believe we have a significant opportunity to grow that small percentage of overall retail spend to much higher levels by improving our selection, service, and savings for customers.

As Bom noted, we continue to be encouraged by the progress we are seeing within our developing offerings segment. Developing offerings revenue grew over 470% year over year or 177%, excluding Farfetch. On a constant-currency basis, developing offerings segment revenue grew over 280% or 188% excluding profit. Given the evolving mix of the various offerings, services, and channels within our business, we believe a primary indicator of the underlying growth in our business is gross profit.

This quarter, we again delivered a record quarter of gross profit reaching over $2.1 billion, growing over 40% year over year with a gross margin of 29.3%. Excluding Farfetch, we delivered $1.9 billion in gross profit for a growth rate of 27% and a margin of 28.3%. This represents an improvement of 220 basis points year over year, accelerating even faster than the growth we saw last quarter. Product commerce gross profit increased 26% year over year to over $1.9 billion and a record gross profit margin of 30.3%.

This represents a 310-basis-point improvement over the last year and 200 basis points over last quarter. Our margin improvement this quarter was driven by strong growth rates in categories with higher margin composition, as well as higher efficiencies across operations, including benefits from greater utilization of automation and technology, including AI. We also continue to benefit from further optimization in our supply chain and the scaling of margin-accretive offerings. We expect these drivers to continue contributing to further margin expansion over the quarters and years to come.

For G&A expense, as a percentage of revenue this quarter increased 600 basis points versus last year. This change was primarily due to the inclusion of Farfetch and its related restructuring costs, as well as the estimated $121 million administrative fine that we accrued as announced by the Korea Fair Trade Commission. We generated $3 million of income before income taxes and a $77 million of net loss attributable to Coupang stockholders this quarter. This resulted in diluted loss per share of $0.04.

Excluding Farfetch and the estimated accrued fine, net income attributable to Coupang stockholders was approximately $124 million for the quarter, and diluted earnings per share was $0.07. Our consolidated business reported $330 million of adjusted EBITDA this quarter which excludes the one-time costs relating to the restructuring activities in Farfetch, as well as accrued fine. This resulted in an adjusted EBITDA margin of 4.5%. The trailing 12-month adjusted EBITDA was $1.1 million with a margin of 4.2%.

Excluding Farfetch, we recorded $361 million of adjusted EBITDA this quarter and $1.2 billion over the trailing 12 months with a trailing 12-month adjusted EBITDA margin of 4.6%. We remain confident in our ability to continue expanding consolidated margins on an annual basis going forward. product commerce segment delivered $430 million of adjusted EBITDA with a record margin of 8.2%. This represents a margin expansion of over 100 basis points over the last year.

This growth in margin was driven by the expansion in gross profit margin, as well as the benefits from further improvements in operational efficiencies. Our segment adjusted EBITDA in developing offerings was a $200 million loss for the quarter, relatively flat to the last quarter and increasing $93 million year over year. This increase was driven by additional investment in these early stage opportunities, as well as a $31 million impact from the consolidation of Farfetch. We remain encouraged by the progress we are making in Farfetch.

Our team is focused on doing one of the things we do best at Coupang, driving operational efficiencies through discipline and process improvement. We remain convinced of the ability for Farfetch to get close to positive adjusted EBITDA run rate by the end of this year. Our ending cash balance at the end of Q2 was roughly $5.8 billion, increasing 22% over the last year, we generated $2.2 billion in operating cash flow and $1.5 billion of free cash flow over the trailing 12 months. As we guided to last quarter, in Q2, we saw an increase in the effective income tax rate, driven by consolidation of pre-tax losses in Farfetch and nondeductible expenses.

As a reminder, this is just an accounting tax rate as we expect our cash tax obligation this year to be closer to 20% to 25%, excluding Farfetch losses. Operator, we are now ready to begin the Q&A.

Questions & Answers:





Operator

[Operator instructions] Please limit your questions to two per person. We'll pause for just a moment to compile the Q&A roster. Your first question comes from the line of Stanley Yang. Your line is open.

Stanley Yang -- Analyst

Thanks for the opportunity to ask the question. Congratulations on strong results on major core metrics line items. My first question is about product commerce margin, which saw a strong margin expense in the second quarter. Can you please provide more color on the margin drivers in the second quarter? And also overall, in 2024, what are the current major tailwinds and headwinds for your tele-commerce margin trend? Is rapidly growing FLC, increasing margin equities? My second question is about the Eats side.

So the Eats market should gain momentum, seems to be even stronger in the second quarter. Is Eats' stand-alone margin improving with the economy of scale? That's my first question on this note. A sub-question on the first question, the second question, and going forward, will you prioritize top-line focused market share gain strategy going forward? Or do you look for a more balanced strategy between growth and profitability?

Bom Kim -- Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Hi, Stanley, thanks for the questions. On product commerce, as you mentioned, Q2, we recorded significant improvements generating nearly $2 billion of gross profit margin of 30%, which represents an improvement of over 300 bps year over year. The drivers of that margin expansion continue to be the same that we've seen over the last several quarters and years. These are continuous improvements in our operations and supply chain, scaling of margin-accretive offerings, greater utilization of automation technology, including AI.

And we still have a lot of opportunity to improve on these variables. That's one reason why we provided the long-term guidance of over 10% adjusted EBITDA and we pointed this out in the past, margins may be uneven quarter to quarter, but we expect our profit margin to continue its march upwards over time toward that target. On Eats, as you point out, we've continued to see strong momentum there, great adoption, and increasing frequency from WOW members who are discovering Eats because of our unlimited free delivery benefit. It's important to note that we're doing that while also continuing to improve our cost structure.

That's aided by the benefits of scale, our focus on operational excellence. Eats is currently unit economics positive, and we see that only continuing to improve at each scale. And as is the case with product commerce, we're obsessed with providing customers with selection, service, and savings, not one at the expense of the other. We'll continue to focus on breaking trade-offs between selection, service, savings, between growth and economics to provide the best experience in restaurant delivery and commerce more broadly.

Gaurav Anand -- Chief Financial Officer

Stanley, you had one more question on FLC margins, so I'll just jump in here. So, as Bom mentioned in his note, we are excited about the progress FLC is making. In Q2, the number of sellers joining FLC grew 25% quarter over quarter and over 150% year over year. The overall FLC is accretive from margin perspective, but there are still many areas that need improvement.

We are making investments to onboard merchants, and we'll continue to improve our suboptimal processes and tech systems there.

Operator

Your next question comes from the line of Eric Cha. Your line is open.

Eric Cha -- Analyst

Yeah. Thank you. Thank you for the opportunity to ask questions. I have two.

The first question is on developing offering. So, I've noticed the developing offering loss has increased to $20 million in second quarter. So, just simply extrapolating this for the year, would you say there's a potential for Coupang to meaningfully go over $750 million loss guidance for developing offerings? And it would be helpful if you could elaborate a little bit more on the moving parts for the bigger loss compared to the first quarter. And my second question is around G&A for product commerce.

It seems like gross profit margin increase has been the key driver for the adjusted EBITDA margin improvement for product commerce lately. And we don't really have much insight into the cadence of G&A for product commerce going forward. So, could you explain on what the drivers are for the G&A increase and when we could expect some operating leverage coming from this slide? Thank you.

Gaurav Anand -- Chief Financial Officer

Yeah. Eric, thanks for your questions. So, on developing offerings, last quarter, we updated our full year guidance of adjusted EBITDA losses of roughly $750 million this year, including Farfetch. So, while the timing of these expenses within the various components of developing offerings may fluctuate quarter to quarter, we still believe our full year actual results will be in line with the guidance that we have previously provided.

On overhead expenses, our expenses, as a percentage of revenue this quarter, increased versus last year. This was primarily due to the inclusion of Farfetch, and it's related to restructuring costs, the increased investments in developing offerings, as well as estimated $121 million administrative fine that we previously mentioned. Within our core operation, we are also investing in technology and infrastructure to build a stronger foundation for future scalability. So, while these investments may temporarily decrease our operating margins in the near term, we will leverage these costs in the next couple of years.

And we believe they will create long-term value as they help us better serve customers and support our future growth.

Operator

The next question is from Seyon Park from Morgan Stanley. Your line is open.

Seyon Park -- Analyst

Hi. Thank you for the opportunity. I also have two questions. First of all, just to follow up on what Stanley had asked.

I think this quarter, the gross profit margin improvement for product commerce was particularly more impressive. And so, I know that the mix of operational efficiencies and the faster growth, the higher-margin products are the drivers. Could you maybe share just a little bit more color as to, for this quarter, within those drivers, what was particularly more evident? My second question is with regards to Taiwan, and I'm very cognizant that management would not like to give any forward-looking, I guess, guidance on Taiwan. But at least looking back, can we at least get a sense as to how far Coupang's services have been rolled out in Taiwan, what is available, what is not available, what kind of coverage you have, next-morning delivery? Is that available in Taiwan into most residents? Can we get some sense on that, please? Thank you.

Bom Kim -- Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Hi. Seyon, thanks for the questions. I think it's important to highlight that on our margin expansion, that we really are early on our improvement journey on these variables. There's still a lot of room.

It's the reason why you continue to see these margin improvements happen over the last few years on a continuous basis. Now there are fluctuations quarter to quarter. The improvement is not always in a straight line. But we believe we're on a long-term trajectory to continue to improve all of these variables over time to achieve our long-term guidance of over 10% adjusted EBITDA.

On Taiwan, it is too early to share details, but I can share that we continue to be very encouraged by the momentum and progress we're seeing there. Our customer experience, selection, service, and savings, none of them were quite at the levels that we've now built in Korea yet. But we are able to start in a much better place. And that strong start is, in part, due to the fact that we're able to leverage in Taiwan a lot of what we've built in Korea.

And we start in a very different place. Our selection processes, fulfillment logistics optimization, supply chain management, our technology stack, all of these things, we've invested and refined over a decade. We're fortunate to be able to leverage a lot of that in Taiwan. So, while we are early in the journey and the experience is not where we'd like to be yet, both on the customer experience and operational excellence, we're very excited about the momentum and progress we're making.

And we'll continue to be very disciplined with any increased level of spend, investing only when we're convinced about the returns we can generate. We're also pleased that we won't have to make the same kind of investments in many areas because we're able to leverage the investments we've already made in the Korean market. Just generally, the potential to create meaningful differentiation in customer experience and meaningful returns for our shareholders, we think, is extremely high, and we're very excited about the opportunity we see in Taiwan.

Seyon Park -- Analyst

Thank you.

Operator

Your next question comes from the line of Jiong Shao from Barclays. Your line is open.

Jiong Shao -- Analyst

Thank you very much for taking my question. First, I have a follow-up question about the margin. I think Bom just talked about your long-term target of EBITDA margin of 10% or more. I was wondering, could you talk about, just for your 1P business, do you think that's also achievable? And in that sort of the margin guide, the gross margin that a few of my peers have highlighted this quarter was particularly strong.

Do you feel there's more room to go? The higher margin categories, could you talk about what are those categories? Are there new categories you think you're going to expect to further growth in those categories? My second question is about the WOW membership fee increase. I was wondering -- I know the higher fee kicked in beginning of August, a few days ago. for the existing members. But as the new members, I think the higher fee kicked in three months ago.

I was wondering if you could talk about, in terms of the new member sign-ups or the existing member churn, if any. Any comments will be appreciated. Thank you

Bom Kim -- Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Hi, Jiong, thanks for the questions. We see a lot of opportunity. I think both Gaurav and I mentioned earlier that we still represent a very small percentage of overall retail spend. There's a lot of expansion potential that we see in spend in almost every category.

So, that's just the general trend. I think we represent a very small percentage of a fragment and a massive $560 billion commerce opportunity. And that spend will go up as we increase selection across all those categories, improve our service, and continue to expand savings for our customers. On WOW, we generally disclose our WOW membership numbers on an annual basis.

So, we will share more at year-end. And our focus continues to be on creating a massive value surplus for our members. Maybe this is a good chance for us to expound a little bit on what value surplus is for our customers there. We create value surplus through WOW.

There are 14 different benefits that we've built over the years and added to the program. As an example, let me just take one of those benefits, free delivery savings and parents with young children are some of the most time- and resource-constrained customers in the market. For a monthly fee, that's equivalent to roughly the cost of two deliveries, these customers save on 23 free deliveries a month. That's saving more than ten times the amount they pay, and that's just from free delivery.

Not including the savings they get on free returns, exclusive discounts, free video streaming, and not to mention hours they save from skipping trips to the store to better spend with their children. And we're really focused, laser-focused on increasing these benefits and savings to serve our existing customers and to attract tens of millions of retail shoppers who have yet to join WOW. And that's where our focus is, to continue to strive to make WOW a best deal on the planet for our customers.

Operator

[Operator instructions] The next question comes from the line of James Lee with Mizuho. Your line is open.

James Lee -- Analyst

Great. Thanks for taking my questions. Two here. One on food delivery.

Given your market share gains, can you talk about some of the competitive responses you've seen in market? In terms of restaurant selections in general, maybe help us understand what do you plan to reach, maybe, parity with your No. 1 peer in the market. And also in terms of potential M&A, I was wondering under what conditions would kind of acquisition make sense in the space. Thanks.

Bom Kim -- Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Sorry, the second question, when you said parity, James, could you clarify parity on what dimension?

James Lee -- Analyst

In terms of restaurant selections.

Bom Kim -- Founder and Chief Executive Officer

I see. Eats, generally speaking, we're continuing to add selection. I would say that in some places, our selection is better. Probably, some place's selection still has areas of improvement to go.

I think the most important thing is that we continue to focus on all three of those pillars, selection, service, savings, delivering on all three pillars, that has been key to winning long-term customer loyalty to continuing to unlock a lot of growth for the program. So, I think that generally is our focus. There are no plans for M&A. I think we just are focused on our internal execution in that space.

James Lee -- Analyst

Great. Thank you.

Operator

There are no further questions. [Operator signoff]

Duration: 0 minutes

Call participants:

Mike Parker -- Vice President, Investor Relations

Bom Kim -- Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Gaurav Anand -- Chief Financial Officer

Stanley Yang -- Analyst

Eric Cha -- Analyst

Seyon Park -- Analyst

Jiong Shao -- Analyst

James Lee -- Analyst

More CPNG analysis

All earnings call transcripts

This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability.

The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Coupang. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Coupang (CPNG) Q2 2024 Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
A brief video clip of a U.S. Navy E-2D Advanced Hawkeye linking up with an Air Force HC-130J tanker somewhere over in the Middle East calls attention to how this aircraft has become even more of a force multiplier with the added ability to refuel in flight.

A brief video clip of a U.S. Navy E-2D Advanced Hawkeye linking up with an Air Force HC-130J tanker somewhere over in the Middle East calls attention to how this aircraft has become even more of a force multiplier with the added ability to refuel in flight. E-2Ds in the region that can get more gas in the air could play especially important roles in response to expected Iranian attacks on Israel, as well as any larger conflict that might erupt. In-flight refueling capability also opens up new ways to employ these airborne early warning and control planes elsewhere around the world, including in island-hopping scenarios during a high-end fight in the Pacific.

U.S. Central Command released the video, seen below, showing the E-2D refueling over or near land in the Middle East earlier today.

A @USNavy E-2D refuels inflight from an @usairforce HC-130 over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. pic.twitter.com/pRkmM4IRIP  U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) August 6, 2024

Based on the region and what can be seen of the aircraft, it is likely a Hawkeye from Airborne Command and Control Squadron 115 (VAW-115) that is currently embarked on the Navys supercarrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. The Roosevelt was last reported to be sailing somewhere in the Gulf of Oman. The USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group are currently heading toward the region from the Western Pacific to take its place. The Air Force has regularly operated HC-130s from bases in the Middle East, as well as East Africa, over the years.

An E-2D with the modex number 604 seen on the deck of the USS Theodore Roosevelt in June 2024. The Advanced Hawkeye in the new CENTCOM video has the same modex number. USN Seaman Apprentice Aaron Haro Gonzalez

A stock picture of a US Air Force HC-130J Combat King with its refueling drogues deployed. USAF

The Navy has been working to refit all of its existing Advhaned Hawkeyes with aerial refueling capability since the late 2010s. All new production E-2Ds for the service, which is ultimately looking to field a fleet of 86 of these aircraft, have the ability to refuel in flight.

In-flight refueling extends the reach of the Navys E-2Ds and their ability to stay on station once they arrive in their assigned operating area. Standard E-2Ds typically fly sorties lasting around four hours, with two and a half hours of that time being on station. The Navy has said in the past that aerial refueling will allow for missions lasting up to seven hours in total with five hours on station.

The extra on-station time could be very valuable for E-2D crews helping to coordinate any U.S. response to major attacks on Israel from Iran or its regional proxies. Retaliation against Israel is expected to come over the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the top political leader of the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, in the Iranian capital Tehran nearly a week ago.

A previous round of Iranian retaliatory attacks on Israeli targets in April took place over the course of many hours. Iran also launched hundreds of low-flying cruise missiles and drones in that instance, threats that the Advanced Hawkeyes would be well suited to spotting and tracking thanks to the incredible look-down capabilities of their AN/APY-9 radars.

A pair of E-2Ds. Northrop Grumman

E-2Ds, which also have impressive communications and networking capabilities, could also provide important support to Navy and other friendly forces in the event of a larger confrontation between the United States and Iran or if the U.S. military finds itself called upon to support a subsequent Israeli response in a non-kinetic fashion. Steadily improving kill web architectures that the Navy and other branches of the U.S. military are developing and fielding means that the aircraft could support friendly forces down below, as well as in the air, too. For instance, the Navy has now long touted the ability of E-2s to help ships engage aerial threats with SM-6 interceptors beyond the reach of their organic radars and other sensors using the Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) architecture.

A briefing slide showing how a surface-launched SM-6 could be employed using the Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) network architecture with the help of an E-2D. USN

The video from CENTCOM showing an Air Force HC-130 refueling the E-2D highlights how that service can keep the Navy aircraft in the air, even without using larger jet-powered tankers. MC-130 special operations Hercules aircraft could also provide this sustenance to the E-2D, along with U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J tanker-transports. USAF jet powered tankers can refuel the E-2D as well using hose and drogue systems internal to the aircraft, such as on the KC-10 and KC-46, or via a boom adapter (Iron Maiden) found on the KC-135. It isnt clear if the E-2D is cleared to refuel from the KC-135Rs wingtip refueling pods, but we doubt it is.

An in-flight refueling capable E-2D links up with a US Navy KC-130T tanker-transport, broadly similar to the US Marine Corps KC-130Js, during a test. USN

Advanced Hawkeyes can also operate from bases on land that might not be able to accommodate larger early warning and control aircraft like the Air Forces E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS). In-flight refueling capabilities further allows the E-2Ds to launch for any location with less fuel, and therefore lower overall weights, which improves short-field performance, and then immediately link up with a tanker to top up.

There is the potential that some VAW-115 E-2Ds from the Roosevelt are already operating ashore. A squadrons worth of F/A-18E/F Super Hornets from the carrier have reportedly moved to base on land somewhere in the Middle East to be better positioned to help defend Israel, according to The Wall Street Journals Lara Seligman. Other U.S. military assets, including Air Force F-22 Raptor stealth fighters, are also being deployed to the region.

NEW: In addition to the F-22 squadron arriving in the coming days, DOD also yesterday moved an F/A-18 squadron from the carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt to a regional partner base, per DOD official.



Both to help defend Israel and U.S. assets ahead of expected Iranian attack  Lara Seligman (@laraseligman) August 6, 2024

None of the advantages and new employment opportunities that E-2Ds with in-flight refueling capability offer are limited to the Middle East, either. In fact, the aircraft, which are also in the process of receiving additional upgrades to their communications suites and other systems, could be even more valuable in a future high-end fight in the Pacific. Their mix of capabilities would be particularly well suited to supporting forward-deployed forces operating from distributed locations, such as on islands spread across a broad area. The U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps are both refining new concepts of operations that focus heavily on expeditionary and distributed operations and rapid deployment to remote and/or austere forward locations with minimal support as part of preparations for a potential high-end conflict, especially one against China.

The ability to operate from shorter runways and with a lower logistic footprint, as well as being able to get gas once in the air from smaller propeller-driven tankers, or even future drones like the MQ-25 Stingray, would be more relevant than ever in the context of an island-hopping campaign. In-flight refueling capable E-2Ds would also then be closer to their operating areas helping to further maximize on-station time.

Even with the Air Forces planned introduction of the smaller Boeing 737-based E-7A Wedgetail to replace a portion of its aging E-3 AWACS fleet, there really isnt another airborne early warning and control capability set to be in the U.S. inventory in the coming years that will match the Advanced Hawkeye ability to push forward. Since it was designed as a carrier-based aircraft, the E-2D could immediately benefit from the development of novel land-based catapult launch and arresting systems to support future expeditionary and distributed aviation operations, as well.

The Advanced Hawkeyes radar has a surface search mode that could support sea control missions and otherwise help provide additional situational awareness for forces spread across island outposts.

The E-2Ds ability to feed targeting data from off-board to forces down below could be particularly important in distributed scenarios where localized organic sensor coverage, especially for ground-based defensive systems, would be limited, especially in regards to low-flying targets and those on the surface of the ocean.

Its worth noting that the Navys E-2 community may well retain some degree of experience with low-footprint land-based operations gained from VAW-77, as well as other units. While VAW-77 was active from 1995 and 2013, its Hawkeyes helped hunt for drug smuggling aircraft and boats first from Naval Air Station Atlanta and then Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, as well as while forward-deployed to bases in Latin America. VAW-77 also had the distinction of being the Navys only dedicated counter-drug squadron. E-2s from other squadrons have been detached to locations ashore over the years, as well.

One of VAW-77s E-2C Hawkeyes takes off from Joint Base Andrews just outside of Washington, D.C., in 2010. USN

Overall, Hawkeyes could provide an absolutely indispensable surveillance and networking capability around islands where American and allied forces are operating, which could drastically increase those forces survivability. It could also fly in support of offensive missions forward from those positions, and be ready to quickly launch to the next locale in order to stay ahead of the enemys targeting cycle. One could argue that the E-2 could have as much relevance to the USAF in an island-hopping fight against China as to the Navy.

What in-flight refueling adds to the E-2Ds already impressive array of capabilities could also be of great interest outside of the U.S. military. Egypt, France, Japan, Mexico, and Taiwan already operate E-2 variants. With the exception of France, these countries all fly their Hawkeyes from land bases.

Taiwan, where distributed concepts of operations would be critical in the event of a future invasion from the mainland, could see particular value in the addition of in-flight refueling capabilities to its Hawkeye fleet. The Taiwanese Air Force is currently looking to upgrade its existing E-2s and acquire more, which might include second-hand examples from the United States and France. With the E-2 still in production, Northrop Grumman continues to market the Hawkeye for export.

A Taiwanese E-2 Hawkeye. Youth Daily News

Altogether, the E-2D presents an incredible one-stop-shop platform for monitoring the air and sea and the addition of inflight refueling capability opens up even more operational opportunities. As such, the new video from CENTCOM looks to be a window into future Advanced Hawkeye operations in that region and elsewhere around the world.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
When is early voting in Florida for the 2024 primary election? What to know, by county

A year's worth of election news has happened in the last few weeks, but the election is in fact getting closer. Mail-in ballots for the Aug. 20 primary election have started going out and early voting locations are already open in some locations, although Tropical Storm/Hurricane Debby shut a few down for a day.

Here's what you need to know.

When is the Florida Primary Election for 2024?

The primary election in Florida is on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024.

What is early voting?

There are often long lines at the polls every Election Day, especially in areas without enough polling locations, with voters sometimes waiting for hours to cast their ballots, and some people can't get to the polls on a Tuesday.

To help alleviate that, early voting was established to let people to vote early at a more convenient time, with the same equipment used on Election Day.

When does early voting in Florida start and end?

Any election that includes a state or federal race is required to offer early voting, which must run from at least the 10th day before the election to the 3rd day before the election. Each county Supervisor of Elections may choose to offer more early voting days, starting up to five days earlier or lasting one day longer.

Here are the early voting dates by county in Florida. Click the county names for more information and locations.

Do I need an ID for early voting in Florida?

To cast a ballot at an early voting site, you must have a photo ID. Acceptable IDs include:

Florida Driver License

Florida ID Card (issued by DHSMV)

U.S. Passport

Debit or Credit Card

Military ID

Student ID

Retirement Center ID

Neighborhood Association ID

Public Assistance ID

Veteran Health ID (issued by the US Department of Veterans Affairs)

Concealed Weapon License (issued pursuant to F.S. 790.06)

Employee ID card issued by any branch, department, agency, or entity of the Federal Government, the state, a county, or a municipality.

If your photo ID does not include your signature, you will be asked to provide another ID that has your signature.

Can I still vote in Florida if I forgot or don't have an ID?

If you don't have an ID with you when you vote you'll still be allowed to, but you will be required to vote a provisional ballot which will later be evaluated by a canvassing board to make sure it's eligible.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Florida Primary Election: Dates, times by county can differ by a lot
Earth's 'evil twin' Venus may have mirrored our planet more than expected

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Seperated at birth? Earth next to its "evil twin" Venus. | Credit: Robert Lea (created with Canva)/NASA

New research may have brought Earth and its inhospitable, "evil twin" even closer together.

Today, Venus seems to lack the tectonic activity seen on Earth, but surface features like faults, folds and volcanoes indicate the hellish planet  with intense temperatures hot enough to melt lead and fearsome surface pressures  was once tectonically active.

New research reveals striking plateaus known as "tesserae" found on the Venusian surface, suggesting that, billions of years ago, intense tectonic activity similar to that which created Earth's earliest continents may have taken place on Venus.

"We did not expect Venus, with its scorching 860 degrees Fahrenheit (460 degrees Celsius) surface temperature and lack of plate tectonics, to possess such complex geological features," research leader Fabio Capitanio from the Monash University School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment said in a statement. "The study [done in collaboration with NASA] challenges our understanding of how planets evolve."

Related: Venus may be able to support life, new atmospheric evidence suggests

What's shaking on Venus?

Plate tectonics refers to the theory that the rigid outer layer of a rocky planet's crust, called the lithosphere, is made up of a number of large plates that move around, over, away from, under and against one another. In the process, these actions help to shape a planet. So far, active plate tectonics have only been observed on Earth.

Venus, with its stagnant lithosphere, or "stagnant lid," only has a single plate with minimal movement. However, its tectonic past remains heavily debated. Many scientists speculate that Venus may have transitioned from limited tectonic movement early in its history to the stagnant lid model that exists today.

To investigate this, Capitanio's team was drawn to formations on Venus called the Ishtar Terra highlands  which are unusual formations given the current lack of plate activity.

The [Ishtar Terra highlands] consist of an Australia-sized crustal plateau with an average elevation of around 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) that is comparable to that of the Tibetan Plateau, surrounded by elongated mountain belts with elevations of around 6.2 miles (10 km), taller than the Himalayas," the team wrote in a paper discussing the findings published in the journal Nature Geoscience. "The region is floored by a thick crust that is comparable to that of cratons on Earth."

On Earth, these formations result from tectonic plates butting up against one another. But on Venus, how could they have formed within a quiescent surface?

The team speculated that these formations might provide further evidence that Earth and Venus share similar geological pasts  and could hold the key to understanding the geological evolution of rocky planets.

a red rocky landscape with an erupting volcano blanketed by thick brown smoke

To investigate potential geological mechanisms that led to the formation of the Ishtar Terra highlands, the scientists used computer modeling coupled with data gathered by the Magellan spacecraft.

In 1990, NASA's Magellan mission became the first spacecraft to image the entire surface of Venus. This allowed scientists to determine the thermal, chemical and mechanical evolution of the planet's mantle and lithosphere and develop scenarios that would have led to the formation of the Ishtar Terra highlands.

An elevation model of the volcano Idunn Mons, located at Imdr Regio on Venus.

The team then compared the model's results to Earth's mantle processes using established scientific methods. And, perhaps most importantly, the researchers tested the different strengths of the lithosphere that would reflect Venus' higher surface temperatures.

This approach allowed them to compare mantle dynamics and lithosphere behavior, integrating previous models focused on either tectonic features or planetary regimes, ranging from mobile (as on Earth) to stagnant (as on Venus) surface states.

The results showed how the plateaus could plausibly form through a process where the planet's surface thins and melts due to its low strength, causing elevated areas as molten rock rises. Over time, the stretching slows down as the mantle becomes more resistant, leading to cooling and the formation of high plains surrounded by folded belts.

This mechanism aligns with the formation of the ancient cores of tectonic plates, known as "cratons" on the hot early Earth, which took place before the onset of plate tectonics.

Related Stories:

 Life on Venus? Intriguing molecule phosphine spotted in planet's clouds again

 If Venus had Earth-like plate tectonics in its distant past, did it have life too?

 The Magellanic Clouds must be renamed, astronomers say

"This finding provides a fascinating new perspective on Venus and its potential links to early Earth," Capitanio said. "The features we found on Venus are strikingly similar to Earth's early continents, suggesting that the dynamics of Venus' past may have been more similar to Earth's than previously thought."

The researcher hopes that by studying similar features on Venus, it will be possible to unlock the secrets of Earth's early history.

"Our research has paved the way for future missions to Venus, such as DAVINCI, VERITAS, and EnVision," Capitanio concluded. "These missions will provide further insights into Venus' geological history and its connection to Earth."
EAST PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD)  East Peoria City Council approved utility line work for an anticipated new police station at Tuesdays meeting.

The two contracts, one with AT&T and one with Comcast totaling $244,959.10, were approved unanimously.

The AT&T contract worth $60,940.93 will go towards underground lines along Camp Street while the Comcast contract worth $184,818.17 will use the approved funds for their own lines underground.

Local EMA encouraging people with dementia to use Care Trak

The council were also presented the first ordinance reading prepared by city staff for the new police station on Camp Street following public comment back in July. The ordinance reading encompasses the $20 million in bonds that will fund the police station.

Since East Peoria requires two readings for its ordinances, the final reading and vote will be held Aug. 20.

Also at the meeting, Mayor John Kahl proclaimed August 2024 as Duck Race Month. The 36th Annual Duck Race hosted by the Center for Prevention of Abuse will be held Aug. 24.

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ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)  The Ector County Hospital District Board of Directors unanimously approved a measure on the November ballot on Tuesday night, asking voters to increase the Hospital Districts tax cap from 15 cents to 75 cents.

ECHD said this marks the first step in a series of measures aimed at expanding Fire and EMS services in Ector County. On July 17, Medical Center Hospital and the City of Odessa entered into a Memorandum of Understanding, while the City of Odessa and Ector County did the same, all agreeing to work together on bringing expanded Fire and EMS services to the entire county.

Under the proposed agreement, which will require the vote to approve a series of measures, MCH would take over the collection and appropriation of funding for Fire and EMS in the county, while the City continues to manage the services. As part of the agreement, MCH agreed to fund future expansion of Fire and EMS services in the areas that are currently underserved and/or long distances from healthcare facilities.

This initial measure is not a vote to increase taxes. It simply allows us to continue to move forward transparently in our goal to improve and expand Fire & EMS Services in Ector County as jointly agreed by all three entities, said Russell Tippin, President & CEO of Medical Center Health System.

You can learn more about this ballot measure and the possible expansion of Fire and EMS services in Ector County, please visit the MCH website here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.
FILE PHOTO: Employee of Luxor's International Airport walks next to an EgyptAir plane, in Luxor

By Joanna Plucinska and Rajesh Kumar Singh

LONDON/CHICAGO (Reuters) -Britain and Egypt asked their airlines on Wednesday to avoid Iranian and Lebanese airspace amid growing fears of a possible broader conflict in the region after the killing of senior members of militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah.

Britain's advisory to its airlines to avoid Lebanon's airspace came hours after Egypt instructed all of its airlines to avoid Iran's airspace for three hours in the early morning on Thursday.

Many airlines globally are revising their schedules to avoid Iranian and Lebanese airspace while also calling off flights to Israel and Lebanon.

Flights through conflict zones became a prominent industry safety issue a decade ago after Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was shot down over Ukraine, killing all 298 people on board.

U.S.-based United Airlines said on Wednesday its flights to Tel Aviv, which were paused on July 31 due to security concerns, remained suspended. "We continue to closely monitor the situation and will focus on the safety of our customers and crews as we decide when to resume service," the airline said.

Its rival Delta Air Lines has paused its flights between New York and Tel Aviv through Aug. 31.

British carriers are not flying to Lebanon currently, according to flight tracking website Flightradar24.

Singapore Airlines stopped flying through Iranian airspace last Friday and is using alternative routes, saying safety is its top priority.

Similarly, Egyptian airlines have already been avoiding Iran's airspace. The new directive applies to all Egyptian carriers, including charter operators and other smaller airlines, said Mark Zee, founder of OPSGROUP - a membership-based organization that shares flight-risk information.

Egypt's NOTAM, a safety notice provided to pilots, said the instruction would be in effect from 0100 to 0400 GMT on Thursday.

"All Egyptian carriers shall avoid overflying Tehran (Flight Information Region). No flight plan will be accepted overflying such territory," the notice said, referring to the three-hour period specified.

Egypt's civil aviation ministry later confirmed on Wednesday the notice was intended to reduce flight safety risks in light of a notification it received from Iranian authorities.

"Military exercises will be conducted over Iranian airspace on Aug. 7 from 11:30 to 14:30 and from 4:30 to 7:30 on Aug. 8 Tehran time," the statement said.

The ministry's press statement followed an unnamed source quoted by the state-affiliated Al Qahera News TV as saying that Iranian authorities had said to avoid flying in the country's airspace because of "military exercises."

Iran's Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani spoke with the Egyptian foreign minister by phone on Wednesday, according to Iranian foreign ministry's website.

In 2020, Iranian air defence units said they mistakenly shot down Ukrainian International Airlines flight PS752, killing all 176 people on board, shortly after it took off from Tehran airport. At the time, they were on heightened alert because of increased tensions with the United States.

On Sunday, Jordanian authorities asked all airlines landing at its airports to carry 45 minutes' worth of extra fuel.

Countries in the region, including Jordan, closed their airspace earlier this year amidst aerial attacks on Israel.

(Reporting by Joanna Plucinska in London and Rajesh Kumar Singh in Chicago; Additional reporting by Jaidaa Taha, Yomna Ehab and Mohamed Ezz in Cairo; Editing by Matthew Lewis, Rod Nickel, Marguerita Choy and Jamie Freed)
Two women look out over the metropolis of Tehran after sunset. Egypt has prohibited its airlines from flying over the Iranian capital Tehran overnight. Arne Immanuel Bansch/dpa

Egypt has prohibited its airlines from flying over the Iranian capital Tehran overnight.

"All Egyptian airlines should avoid flights over Tehran," a security notice from the civil aviation authority in Cairo read on Wednesday.

Plans for flights over this area will be rejected, it said. The directive applies from 0100 GMT on Thursday for three hours.

Such a notice from Egypt is "very unusual," wrote the organization OPS Group, which informs its members about risks and changes in international air traffic.

"It is possible that this is an indicator of an Iranian response to Israel, and in turn a potentially large set of airspace disruptions," the group wrote, referring to a potentially imminent attack that has been speculated about for days.

Earlier this week, Jordan asked all incoming aircraft to carry an additional 45 minutes of fuel in case of diversions.

An Iranian attack on Israel could play out, as it did in April, in the skies over Jordan, among other places.

Following the killing of top Hamas leader Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and the killing of a military commander of the Hezbollah militia in Lebanon, the risk of a major war in the Middle East has significantly increased.

Iran, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement have announced retaliation against Israel.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Things are looking up for an Albuquerque community that recently lost its only grocery store.

A member of the community used the word heartbreaking to describe what life has been like since the doors to the Sol Supermarket closed in January. Long-time South Broadway resident Maria Gonzalez said, Its been tough because this is the only grocery store, we have here.

For the community, finding a place to buy fresh food became a new challenge, especially for those without any means of transportation.

Now, the building near Broadway and Avenida Cesar Chavez is under new ownership.

Me and my brothers the Bermudez family we just bought the shopping center now in June and the idea is to replace and rebuild the shopping center as a new El Mezquite market for the community, said Sergio Bermudez, President & CEO of El Mezquite.

This will make the fifth El Mezquite market in town. The south Broadway neighborhood association said this is a step in the right direction.

South Broadway is one of the poorest neighborhoods in the United States. So access to nutrient and affordable food is important especially people of low income that dont have that access, creating that food desert, said Onastine Jaramillo, Vice President of the South Broadway Neighborhood Association.

Gonzalez said the closure was a blow to the neighborhood. But now she has a reason to be hopeful.

Im super excited about the Mezquite coming in. I think its going to bring the community a little closer together, said Gonzales.

The shopping center that once included other community staples like Stadium Liquors and A First Choice Community Healthcare Clinic will see some major changes including a complete parking lot revamp.

The cheapest way to us is to just open the door and use all the equipment that was there already. But we really believe that people deserve something better than that, said Bermudez. El Mezquites ownership, saying their mission is to remain true to the areas Latino culture.

Mezquite logo has been bringing cultures together and thats what it means I mean coming to get the salsa, bring the tacos, what people need for the community, said Bermudez.

In addition to a new parking lot, the building will be getting a complete re-do with a new roof, plumbing, and electrical, before El Mezquite Market opens its doors. They hope to open by next summer.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)The El Paso Fire Department announced a new partnership to enhance emergency medical response capabilities within the community.

Air Methods and EPFD partnered in a five-year contract to establish Fire STAR (Shock and Trauma Air Rescue) to provide fast air medical transportation, according to the City of El Paso.

El Paso Fire Chief Jonathan Killings expressed the departments unwavering commitment to the community, stating, We are thrilled to collaborate with Air Methods to launch Fire STAR. This service will significantly enhance our ability to respond swiftly to emergencies and provide our community with the highest standard of care.

According to the City, the partnership is expected to be ready by September 2024.

According to the City, Air Methods brings a wealth of experience in delivering critical care in emergencies. This partnership with EPFD is expected to significantly decrease response times and improve patient outcomes, particularly in situations where every second counts.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)A group of El Pasoans has submitted a petition calling for District 8 City Representative Chris Canales to be removed from his position.

Canales told KTSM the move is unwarranted.

In the petition delivered Tuesday morning, the group outlined a series of concerns they have with Canales, including what they claim was a lack of transparency about a low-incoming housing project proposed in the Coronado, Mesa Hills area.

RECALL-DISTRICT-8-CHRIS-CANALES-PETITIONDownload

As we have previously reported, the project has received pushback from community members after the Housing Authority of the City of El Paso, or HOME applied to have a lot by Mesa Hills and Sunland Park rezoned to begin construction.

Speaking to KTSM, the group said they feel unheard by Canales and want someone in the role who listens to voters.

Put it this way: They just want to be represented, and no ones being represented, District 8 resident Linda Peacock said. You cant just go about doing your own business and pretend that everybodys going to follow you in your own agenda. The agenda is the peoples agenda, and thats what it always should be, and thats what were fighting for.

KTSM requested a comment from Canales office and received a detailed breakdown of each point in the petition. He wrote, in part:

I have had eight community meetings since HOME submitted their rezoning request in April. We have discussed the project at most of those meetings. Ms. Peacock and Mr. Nunez attended one of those meetings, and we discussed the issue for around 45 minutes.I also attended the HOME Board of Commissioners meeting held at the nearby Polly Harris Senior Center and listened to HOMEs presentation as well as the extensive public comment about this topic. I stayed in the lobby for about 45 minutes after the meeting to speak with all the constituents who wanted to talk to me.

I also attended the HOME Board of Commissioners meeting held at the nearby Polly Harris Senior Center and listened to HOMEs presentation as well as the extensive public comment about this topic. I stayed in the lobby for about 45 minutes after the meeting to speak with all the constituents who wanted to talk to me.

DISTRICT-8-CHRIS-CANALES-RESPONSEDownload

According to the city charted, the petition is the first step in the recall process.

The group has 60 days to gather authentic signatures from at least 20% of the votes cast to originally elect Canales.

Canales, who has been in office for more than 19 months, said if the recall moves forward, he would participate in the special election, which he said could cost taxpayers about $275,000.

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the HOME project on Sept. 10.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
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China Coast Guard assists injured Filipino fishermen in waters adjacent to China's Huangyan Dao on June 29, 2024. [Photo/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.
(Bloomberg) -- Coupang Inc. posted its first loss in two years, after the acquisition of unprofitable Farfetch Holdings Plc and a government regulatory fine offset strong growth in its core e-commerce business.

Most Read from Bloomberg

South Koreas largest online retailer posted a net loss of $77 million for the June quarter, versus an average estimate for a loss of $11.7 million. Excluding Farfetch and a fine from the Korean authorities, Coupangs second-quarter net income came to about $124 million, it said in a statement.

Coupang fell more than 5% in late US trading after closing at $20.67. The shares had been up 28% this year.

The losses overshadowed resilient top-line growth. It reported a net revenue increase of 25% to $7.3 billion. Shares in Coupang, which popularized one-day delivery in Korea, have climbed about 26% this year after the company posted its first full year of profit in 2023. Its now seeking growth by expanding into newer arenas like Taiwan even as Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.s AliExpress and PDD Holdings Inc.s Temu push into its biggest market.

Chief Executive Officer Bom Kim told analysts during an earnings conference call that the company will continue to invest to speed up delivery across its markets.

While new customers contribute to future growth, our growth today and tomorrow is powered primarily by the increasing spend of our existing customers, Kim said. We cant stress enough how small a share we are of the massive and highly fragmented $560 billion commerce opportunity in the market, and how early we are in that journey.

The companys on track to have Farfetch  the online luxury company it acquired in January  reach close to positive adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization on a run-rate basis by the end of 2024, he said.

Coupangs also grappling with allegations that it favors its own private-label goods at the expense of third-party merchants in search results. Koreas Fair Trade Commission said in June it imposed a tentative fine of 140 billion won ($102 million) for alleged legal violations. Coupang has said it will vigorously appeal the regulators findings.

--With assistance from Nick Turner.

(Updates with executive comments from earnings call.)

Story continues

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El Paso School Bans All Black Clothing Because It's 'Associated with Depression'

Charles Middle Schools new dress code forbids black tops with black bottoms, citing concerns about mental health and criminality

CBS TEXAS/Youtube All black outfits are banned by an El Paso school.

An El Paso school has instituted a new dress code for the school year, banning students from wearing head-to-toe black clothing  because the look, they say, is "associated with depression and mental health issues."

Charles Middle School principal Nick DeSantis sent a letter to parents this year explaining the new uniform dress code, according to KFOX14.

We are  eliminating a look that has taken over on campus with students wearing black tops with black bottoms, which has become more associated with depression and mental health issues and/or criminality than with happy and healthy kids ready to learn, the letter read.

"What they are not allowing for students to wear clothing that is black from top to bottom," Norma De La Rosa, the president of El Paso Teachers Association, told CBSTexas. They can wear black shorts to go to PE. And they can wear it on free dress day, but they just cannot wear it from top to bottom.

But she admits it's a tricky issue. The colors are not much for to prevent or stop mental health issues," she told the outlet. "You can have the most colorful dress on and still be suffering through depression.

CBS TEXAS/Youtube Charles Middle School in El Paso.

Related: What to Do if You Suspect Your Child Has Depression or Anxiety

PEOPLE has reached out to Charles Middle School and the El Paso Independent School District for a statement.

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The El Paso Independent School District, which created the policy, told KFOX14 that the change in uniform policy was meant to to enhance students' well-being and sense of pride. This decision, carefully considered and approved by the Campus Improvement Team  comprising parents, faculty, staff, and community stakeholders  aims to foster a positive self-image among students and more effectively showcase the schools colors and pride.

The dress code changes were a response to concerns and recommendations brought forward by the stakeholders of Charles Middle School. The school appreciates the community's feedback and collaboration in making these changes.

Related: New Study Finds Physical Fitness Can Improve Mental Health in Children and Young Adults

"Keep in mind that students safety is our number one priority, and so anytime, there are concerns that are brought forward about student safety it's important for us to take those seriously," El Paso Independent School District Executive Principal, Sarah Venegas, told KVIA7.

She added that the school also removed black pants from the permissible list of clothing, with only khakis or blue jeans allowed.

"Wearing your uniform is a part of the school rules, at every campus, she told the outlet. If theyre in uniform violations it can be a disciplinary infraction but that is up to every administrator."

But as one parent, Stephanie Rascon, told the outlet, "I don't think we should be grouping, and red flagging kids that just like to wear black."

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With the announcement that he won his reelection universally challenged, Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro is moving quickly to transform his regime into a more brutal dictatorship that in all likelihood will trigger a flood of refugees that will cause havoc in neighboring countries as they try to move towards the U.S. border.

And the reaction of regional leaders, including the United States, to the alleged electoral fraud has been so timid that the refugee scenario at this point looks almost like a certainty, warned former National Assembly president Julio Borges, one of the top figures of the Venezuelan opposition.

The political response has so far fallen short, Borges told the Miami Herald in a telephone interview. We are very concerned about the passage of time. It has been 10 days after the election, and our fear is that if we dont soon see a bold proposal on the table, one that recognizes the results of the July 28th election, we will soon find ourselves immerse in a labyrinth of devastating consequences for the region.

A number of polls conducted before the election showed that 20% of the Venezuelan population have decided to leave the country if Maduro is not removed from power this year. That would translate into another five million Venezuelans seeking refuge in other countries. But in comparison to the estimated 7.7 million who fled the regime over the past 10 years, the new exodus could take place quickly.

The Venezuelan opposition, led by leader Maria Corina Machado, claims that their presidential candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, the former ambassador to Argentina, resoundingly defeated Maduro in the election, getting more than 65% of the votes, with Maduro obtaining about 30%.

This claim is disputed by the countrys elections board, an agency tightly controlled by the regime that lacks independent monitoring, which on election night claimed that Maduro won with just over 51% of the vote.

The oppositions results, however, are backed by the official paper tallies of more than 80% of the countrys voting stations, while the regime has so far been unable to provide the official tallies supporting its claim of victory despite repeated calls from the international community to provide the evidence.

Regional leaders, including the United States, expressed doubts about the credibility of the regimes claim and have said Gonzalez won the election. But they then proceeded to adopt a wait and see attitude to allow countries such as Mexico, Brazil and Colombia to begin negotiations with the regime. That is a big mistake, Borges said.

We are now under a sort of paralysis, since they are now giving time for this alleged process of negotiations to work, without any sign that it is actually moving forward, Borges said. There are reports that the regime has hired representatives to conducting a major lobbying effort in Colombia, Mexico and Brazil to convince their governments to stop asking Maduro to produce the official voting tallies that confirm his claim of victory, he added.

Under those conditions, Maduro will most likely conduct the negotiations into a quagmire from which it will never emerge, a successful tactic the regime has used in the past.

Meanwhile, Maduro is wasting no time. Given the collapse of the strategy that he had set out for the election, he is now moving quickly to transform his authoritarian regime into a full pledged dictatorship, which is bound to be even more brutal than the one currently in control of Cuba, and one willing to strictly adhere to the interests and control of Beijing and Moscow, Borges said.

What Maduro is seeking at this point is to formally graduate as a dictator. He wants Venezuela to become a business branch for Russian, Chinese and Iranian interests. And this must be understood in the context that Venezuela has no less than a quarter of the worlds oil reserves and the eighth largest gas reserves in the world, he added.

The move that Maduro made after July 28 is much bigger that could be seen in terms of its grave consequences... and seem destined not just to turn Venezuela into another Cuba, but into North Korea, he said.

The Caracas regime has launched a brutal crackdown following the oppositions claim that he is trying to steal the election. Machado said last week in an op-ed published in the Wall Street Journal that she is in hiding and that she fears for her life and her freedom. Maduros security forces have arrested at least 2,000 people since the election.

Human rights groups have said that at least 20 people have been killed since the crackdown began and dozens more have been injured, while armed paramilitary groups roam the streets, at times firing on protesters.

Maduro has also announced plans to shut down social media apps, claiming that they are being used to coordinate rebellious acts.

Commenting on a recent Maduro pronouncement to stop the usage of Whatsapp in Venezuela, Borges said he takes the remarks seriously because it was made amid the regimes plans to begin to use technological tools to restrict the usage of social media in the country.

The transformation of a Caracas regime into a full-blown dictatorship would without doubt be a tragedy for Venezuelans, but it also poses grave security threats for Colombia and Brazi _ with which it shares long land borders  but also for Mexico and the United States, said Borges, one of the founders and top leaders of the opposition party Primero Justicia.

Not all governments have come to understand the risk posed by the totalitarian path adopted by Maduro in the aftermath of the election, the opposition leader said.

The left-leaning presidents of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Colombia, Gustavo Petro, which have traditionally been considered allies of Maduro, need to realize that this is no longer an issue of political ideology, but one that threatens devastating consequences to their own countries, Borges said.

Miami Herald staff writer Ana Claudia Chacin contributed to this story.
While no seats were won in the August primary, Tri-Cities voters narrowed the field in numerous races and weighed in on a variety of high priority issues.

They also gave the rest of Washington a preview of how one of the states most highly watched races in the newly redistricted 14th Legislative District could play out in Novembers general election.

Voters made their voices heard on topics ranging from who will face off for Benton and Franklin county commission seats to a retail cannabis advisory vote in West Richland.

They also voted on some much needed fire district levy requests around the region.

The 14th Legislative District was perhaps the hottest race in the state, with redistricting allowing an opportunity to flip the traditionally Republican seats. The turnout in those primary races narrowed the field for the state House seats and gave candidates a path to victory in November.

Voters also sent a message to several incumbents that theyre going to need to work to retain their seats this fall.

Early voting tallies in Benton County included 21,311 ballots with an estimated 25,000 ballots left to be counted in the coming days. Franklin County counted 9,357 ballots. Its unclear how many are left to be counted. The election will be certified Aug. 20.

Commissioner races

In the most competitive local race on the ballots, Franklin County voters will send appointed incumbent Stephen Bauman to the November general election to face off against Caleb Atkins. They were the top two vote-getters.

Bauman led the race with 1,804 votes, or 53%, in early voting tallies. Atkins followed with 1,339 votes, or 39%, and Paul L. Frenzel with 181 votes, or 5%. All three are Republicans.

In Franklin Countys District 2 commission race, current board chairman Rocky Mullen, a Republican, had 769 votes, or 64%, to his challenger former Pasco Mayor Blanche Barajas, with 424 votes, or 35%. That race also will be decided in November.

The tighter than usual race is likely a reprimand from voters who are weary of the ongoing political fighting at the county. Mullen is one of three elected officials under criminal investigation for allegedly abusing their offices to cover up an investigation.

Bauman is not a suspect in that investigation, but he did recently find himself in hot water over changing the locks on his courthouse office and refusing to provide the sheriffs office with a key.

In Benton County, the majority of its commission is also up for reelection this fall.

In the District 1 race, incumbent Jerome Delvin was leading with 4,010 votes, or 57%, to opponent Jeff Smarts 2,892 votes, or 41%.

Smart is a local real estate agent and was recently named president of the Washington Association of Realtors. Both are Republicans.

In the District 3 race, incumbent Will McKay was leading with 3,131 votes, of 68%, to opponent Zach Fluhartys 1,313 votes, or 29%. They also are both Republicans and will face off in November.

14th Legislative District

The newly drawn 14th District stretches from east Yakima through part of Benton County to Pasco and down to the Columbia River. Voters in the district are just over 50% Hispanic.

 Democrat Chelsea Dimas from Sunnyside and Republican Gloria Mendoza from Grandview appear set to be on the November ballot for Position 1 in the 14th District legislative race.

On Tuesday night Dimas had 2,268 votes, or 38%, Mendoza had 1,937 votes, or 32%, and Republican Andy Kallinen of Lyle in Klickitat County had 1,810 votes, or 30%.

Mendoza served as Grandviews mayor and on the Grandview City Council for eight years. She is a former farmworker and business owner.

Dimas is a communications professional and the daughter of immigrant farmworkers from Mexico. She says she is the first openly queer, Indigenous Latinx woman to run for the Legislature.

 For Position 2 in District 14, Republican Deb Manjarrez of Wapato and Democrat Ana Ruiz Kennedy of Pasco were leading Tuesday night.

Manjarrez had 3,185 votes, or 53%; Kennedy had 2,412 votes, or 40%; and independent Eddie Perez of Union Gap had 412 votes, or 7%.

Kennedy is the business liaison at a nonprofit community development financial organization. She is concerned that housing costs are too high and wants to work to create living wage jobs, support local businesses and tackle the fentanyl problem.

Manjarrez is a certified public accountant and apple orchardist. She has a community service background that includes chairing the Wapato Chamber of Commerce and also the Republican Central Committee and helping found the Wapato Tamale Festival.

 In the primary for the District 14 Senate seat, incumbent Republican Curtis King had 3,488 votes, or 57%, and Democrat Maria Beltran had 2,569 votes, or 42%, Tuesday night.

Cannabis advisory vote

The voters of West Richland have spoken: Cannabis retail sales should not be allowed in city limits.

In a vote with symbolic weight and no legal effect, the citys voters advised the city council they dont want to end the citys 10-year ban on cannabis sales.

With 2,111 votes counted Tuesday, the vote was 55% against allowing retail marijuana sales to 45% in favor, or 1,157 voting Do not allow to 954 voting in favor.

Benton County will update results at 4 p.m., Wednesday. The voter turnout in Benton County was 16.5%.

The West Richland City Council has not said if it will bind itself to the results of Proposition 1, an advisory ballot.

The city council referred the request to voters in the Aug. 6 primary after a cannabis retailer from Yakima submitted an environmental impact report to Washington state that could have opened the door to retail sales in industrial areas of West Richland.

Ken Weaver wanted to bring his Slow Burn chain to the area. West Richlands planning commission voted 3-1 to recommend the city council make the change. But faced with fierce opposition, the council opted to canvas voters for their thoughts.

Officials in neighboring Richland are watching the outcome as well after receiving a similar request from Fire Cannabis to amend city codes to allow it to open a store in the Horn Rapids Industrial Area.

Fire Cannabis suspended its request while Richland city leaders watched results from the neighboring jurisdiction.

Washington voters legalized recreational cannabis use in 2012 but the measure was so unpopular in the Tri-Cities that several local jurisdictions banned sales, though possession remains legal under Washington law.

Cannabis sales are still banned in Kennewick, Richland, West Richland and Franklin County.
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. Both had amassed substantial leads by that point, however.

More: Find all 2024 Michigan primary election results here

Slotkin led Detroit actor Hill Harper 76% to 24% in the Democratic primary, with 94% of the vote tallied statewide. Rogers led the Republican primary, with 63% to 16% for former U.S. Rep. Justin Amash, R-Cascade Charter Township, and 12% for west Michigan Dr. Sherry O'Donnell, with about 94% 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 9% of the vote.

Both Slotkin and Rogers had long been considered the front-runners in the Democratic and Republican primaries for the Senate seat. Come back to www.freep.com for updated vote totals.

Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin arrives at her Election Night watch party for her run for U.S. Senator and greets Michigan Senator Sarah Anthony at the Detroit Regis Hotel in Detroit on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

Speaking to a crowd of supporters in Detroit, Slotkin said accepting the nomination was an "extremely proud moment" for her and praised Harper and Dearborn businessman Nasser Beydoun, who had earlier been disqualified from the Democratic primary race, for running. "I know how hard it is to step into the arena," she said. "I applaud anyone who stands up to run."

As for Rogers, Slotkin described him as a friend to big business and pharmaceutical companies who would rather stoke culture war arguments than attack the danger posed to children by guns. "The contrasts between us could not be clearer," she said. "This election will come down to service to country versus service to self."

Rogers, who had a watch party in Oakland County, issued a statement expressing his gratitude for the support he had received. "The road to victory in November starts now and were more united than ever before to deliver for hard working Michiganders," he said. "Together, we will lower the costs of gas and groceries, secure our southern border, eliminate pro-China EV (electric vehicle) mandates, and Get America Back on Track!

The race to replace Stabenow is expected to be an unusually hard-fought one, given that no Republican U.S. Senate nominee has won in Michigan since 1994, when former U.S. Sen. Spencer Abraham was elected to a single six-year term by beating Democratic former U.S. Rep. Bob Carr in the Republican wave nationally that year.

Stabenow, who had been a U.S. House member, beat Abraham by only about 1 percentage points in 2000 and never faced as close a race again.

But political handicappers, including those at the well-respected Cook Political Report in Washington, have declared Michigan's open seat a toss-up, largely based on the strength that had been shown by Republican former President Donald Trump in opinion polls for his reelection bid in the state, compared with what were lagging numbers for Democratic President Joe Biden before he abandoned his party's nomination late last month.

The belief was that Biden's problems would weigh down the Democrats' chances of keeping the U.S. Senate seat, though it's possible now if Vice President Kamala Harris, who replaced Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee, continues to see her polling numbers rise against Trump in Michigan and nationally, political handicappers could again tout the state as a likely Democratic hold.

Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, will be in Michigan campaigning Wednesday and Thursday. Trump's running mate, U.S. Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, will be campaigning in Macomb County on Wednesday.

Almost from the moment that Stabenow shocked Michigan political circles in early 2023 by announcing she would not seek a fifth six-year term, Slotkin  who threw her hat in the ring less than two months later  had been seen as a strong replacement by those in her party. A former intelligence officer who served both the administrations of former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and who rose to the rank of acting assistant Pentagon secretary for the latter, Slotkin has been seen as a formidable campaigner, raising scads of money and leaning into a reputation as a pragmatic, more moderate voice for her party in Washington.

Mike Rogers and Kristi Rogers greet guests and supporters for Senate campaign during his election night primary party at the Old Detroit Bar and Grille in Lake Orion on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. Rogers is a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate.

In her first run in 2018, she upset former U.S. Rep. Mike Bishop, R-Rochester, in a district that had long been seen as a Republican stronghold and had been filled by Rogers before he left Congress in 2015. Two years later, she beat Republican Paul Junge even as Trump, running for reelection, won the district for a second time. In 2022, she defeated former state Sen. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte, in a redrawn district that was still considered a toss-up between the parties.

In the Senate nominating campaign, Slotkin initially faced a somewhat larger field, until Dearborn businessman Nasser Beydoun was removed from the ballot for failing to include a proper street address on the petition signature sheets he provided to the Secretary of State's Office. That left Slotkin facing Harper, an actor who has appeared in TV's "The Good Doctor" and "CSI:NY" and a writer who moved to Detroit some years ago.

Harper, who is Black, picked up some early endorsements, including those from Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, former U.S. Rep. Brenda Lawrence, D-Southfield, and Wayne County Commission Chair Alisha Bell, and tried to push a message that Slotkin, who is white and Jewish, wasn't appropriately committed to the concerns of Black Michiganders as she should be. He has also argued that Slotkin is too connected with institutional Washington and, by inference, the Biden administration, which has been criticized for not doing more to demand an Israeli cease-fire in Gaza.

But Harper also had several missteps, including not initially disclosing his sources of income as required by federal law, and failing to raise anywhere near the money raised by Slotkin, who, as of the middle of last month had some $24 million in campaign receipts compared to less than $3 million for Harper, more than $1 million of which he donated or loaned himself. Meanwhile, Slotkin began to make inroads in Detroit, meeting with leaders, cosponsoring bills in the U.S. House to study reparations and raise the minimum wage, and seeking out endorsements.

It appeared up to the end that Harper, while game, didn't have time or resources enough to bounce back and Slotkin was widely considered the prohibitive favorite to win the nomination. As of 10:25 p.m. Tuesday, his campaign had not yet provided the Free Press with any indication that he had conceded the race.

Rogers, a former critic, buoyed by Trump's endorsement

Rogers, a former FBI agent who replaced Stabenow in the U.S. House in 2001 and rose to become chairman of the House Intelligence Committee before deciding not to run for an eighth two-year term in 2014, had widely been considered the Republican favorite for the nomination headed into the primary.

After getting into the race last September, Rogers quickly sewed up much of the institutional support, including that of the influential DeVos family in west Michigan, and his connections with metro Detroit  having lived in Livingston County for decades  were seen as a strength despite his having moved back into Michigan from Florida during the campaign.

But Rogers could have faced serious headwinds given that the state's Republicans had become far less swayed by institutional party strength and the fact that he had criticized Trump in the past for not accepting the results of the 2020 election, which showed Trump losing to Biden nationally and in Michigan.

That worry, however, disappeared after Trump endorsed Rogers over the rest of the field, which occurred only after Rogers made clear his own endorsement of Trump in this year's election and that he felt the justice system under the Biden administration had been weaponized against the former president despite lacking any clear evidence that it had. Since then, it has been largely clear sailing for Rogers, even as Democrats began to attack him for flip-flopping on Trump and working for companies that did business in China after leaving Congress.

Initially, Rogers also faced a large group of Republican hopefuls that included former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, who was seen as having broader name recognition than Rogers. But Craig dropped out in February of this year and endorsed Rogers, his campaign unable to raise sufficient amounts of financial support. Later, another candidate, former U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer, R-Grand Rapids Township, dropped out just ahead of the deadline to do so.

That left Amash, who had left the GOP previously, O'Donnell and Pensler, who ramped up the most significant attacks against Rogers as being insufficiently committed to the conservative cause for authoring a report, while in Congress, that largely cleared the intelligence community of any responsibility in the 2012 attacks on U.S. facilities in Benghazi, Libya, that killed four Americans. Pensler framed it as a defense of then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the Obama administration.

By that point, though, Rogers was seen as having the lead, and got chances to stand next to Trump at rallies and speak at the Republican National Convention. On July 20, at a rally in Grand Rapids shortly after the convention, Pensler stood next to Trump and Rogers and endorsed Rogers, saying he was getting out of the race. "President Trump endorsed Mike Rogers. Tonight, so am I," Pensler said. "Mikes going to make a heck of a senator."

How the Senate campaign will likely shape up

Both candidates in their statements provided insights into how they can be expected to go after their opponent ahead of the Nov. 5 general election.

For Slotkin and the Democrats, that will mean drawing attention to Rogers' attempts to block and repeal the Affordable Care Act and his support for trade deals which many workers found harmful to domestic manufacturing during his tenure. It also means going after him on gun control and the need for what she claims would be common-sense restrictions given the number of children who die, including through suicides and accidental shootings.

Rogers' history of working  and greatly increasing his wealth doing so  after leaving Congress, a time during which he mostly lived outside of Michigan, will also continue to be a Democratic theme against him, even as Slotkin argues for expanded health care and child care and efforts to increase better-paying jobs, especially union jobs, in Michigan.

Rogers and the Republicans, meanwhile, will hammer away at the claims they've been using already against Democrats this year, especially the surge in undocumented immigrants that had been coming across the southern border until recent changes and the Biden administration's push for tailpipe emission rules the GOP say amount to a mandate to force automakers to sell expensive electric vehicles the public may not want. And while there is no actual mandate, the administration has put in place rules that could result in automakers paying fines if they don't sell a lot more EVs.

Republicans will also work to tag Slotkin as more liberal than her reputation as a moderate, even though she has generally voted against her party more than most Democrats.

Regardless of the issues, expect outside groups supporting either side to flood the state with ads and money, with control of the U.S. Senate possibly at stake.

Contact Todd Spangler: tspangler@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter@tsspangler.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Elissa Slotkin, Mike Rogers win US Senate nominations
As Elon Musk clashes with Starmer on X: Could Twitter be banned in the UK?

Elon Musk has been criticised for his handling of disinformation on Twitter / X as he clashes with Keir Starmer over far-right riots which have gripped parts of the UK.

The US businessman, who bought the social media platform in 2022, launched a tirade of posts in which he mocked and criticised the UK prime minister. Following a statement from the Labour leader criticising the attacks on Muslim communities, Musk questioned why all communities should not be protected.

He later reposted this comment, alongside several memes which depict the UKs criminal justice system as racially biased, as well as calling the Labour leader #twotierkeir. This echoes a far-right talking point which alleges that policing in the UK is more severe towards right-wing people.

Violence has erupted across England and in Northern Ireland (Owen Humphreys/PA) (PA Wire)

It comes as critics say Musk has allowed disinformation to spread on Twitter since his takeover of the platform. During his tenure, he has let go of around 6,000 staff, or 80 per cent of the workforce, including the entire moderation team. He has also allowed previously banned users like Donald Trump, Andrew Tate, and Tommy Robinson.

On Sunday, Musk replied to a video of rioting in the UK originally posted by Robinson. Analysts say this boosted the right-wing organisers reach, with Musks reply now reaching 9.2 million views.

Addressing the role of social media during the riots, technology secretary Peter Kyle said: I have been clear it is unacceptable that people are using social media to cause damage, distress and destruction in our communities.

Today I had useful meetings 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. There is a significant amount of content circulating that platforms need to be dealing with at pace.

Former PM Rishi Sunak chats to Elon Musk in 2023 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Encrypted messaging service Telegram has moved to remove channels organising far-right riots after it was thought many people organised anonymously on the platform for events last week.

A spokesperson for the Russian-owned tech firm said: Telegrams terms of service explicitly forbid calls to violence. Moderators use a combination of proactive monitoring of public parts of the platform and user reports in order to remove content that breaches our terms of service.

Musks social media activity shows that he is less willing to engage with calls for moderation. With tensions rising between the billionaire and the prime minister, many are wondering what the future of Twitter / X could be in Britain.

Could Twitter / X be banned in the UK?

There is currently limited legislation to tackle online disinformation in the UK, but Ofcom says this is changing. Following the riots, the telecoms watchdog has confirmed that new laws are set to come into force later this year.

They follow the passing of the Online Safety Act (OSA) in 2023, which changes the way social media is regulated in the UK. It will soon put new duties on tech firms to protect their users from illegal content, ranging from inciting violence to some instances of disinformation.

Certain acts that are illegal in real-life remain so online. It is a crime to harass or threaten someone on social media, for instance. But the onus here is on the user, not the platform on which they are operating. Furthermore, the law only covers misinformation that is defamatory, offensive or intended to cause distress. If it doesnt fall into these categories, it is likely to go unpunished and often unchallenged.

When the new duties come into force, tech firms operating in the UK will be given three months to assess illegal content on their platforms. After this, they will be required to take steps to stop it from appearing.

Let that sink in, Musk tweeted after announcing his takeover of Twitter in 2022 (Getty Images)

Ofcom says they will have a number of powers to enforce this. Firstly, they can impose fines on tech firms of up to 18 million or 10 percent of their qualifying worldwide revenue, whichever is greater.

Criminal action could even be taken against senior managers who fail to follow information requests from Ofcom. And, in extreme cases, Ofcom can require internet service providers to stop working with companies, effectively banning them from operating in the UK.

The new duties on tech firms were subject to a consultation from February this year, and are expected to be in effect from around the end of this year, Ofcom says.

The OSA also compelled the watchdog to launch a misinformation committee, which it is yet to do. Experts have also raised concerns that the scope to challenge disinformation included in the act could prove too limited.

Azzurra Moores, Policy Manager at Full Fact said: Unrest across the UK shows that the internet companies must react faster and more comprehensively to stop the spread of misinformation on their platforms before it can cause devastating, real-world harm.

"But the Government must also examine how it can support the sector to build better defences to bad information. Ten months on from becoming law, we urgently need to see Ofcom's advisory committee on misinformation established and empowered to reflect the reality that misinformation is a frontline threat to community safety that can ruin lives.

"In its current form with just two explicit mentions of misinformation, the Online Safety Act barely scratches the surface of online misinformation and should be amended to properly tackle the threats posed to our society."

Musk has made clear he wants X to become an everything platform (Getty Images)

Which countries have banned X?

While it would be an unprecedented step in the West for the UK to ban Twitter, it has been in other places across the world. It is currently blocked in China, Russia, North Korea, Turkmenistan, Myanmar, Iran, and Pakistan.

Of these, only in Pakistan has the service been blocked since Musk took over in 2022. This came shortly before the countrys election in February 2024, in a move widely criticised by democracy campaigners.

Closer to the UK, the site has run into trouble with French authorities more than once. This first happened in 2013, when Twitter bosses were ordered by a judge to reveal the identity of a user who had been posting anti-semitic tweets, threatening the company with hefty fines for not doing so.

Last year, trouble came again as French ministers criticised the platforms lax approach to misinformation following its withdrawal from a voluntary EU code of practice on the issue.

Speaking in March 2023, former French digital minister Jean-Noel Barrot said: Disinformation is one of the gravest threats weighing on our democracies.

Twitter, if it repeatedly doesnt follow our rules, will be banned from the EU, he added.

This threat has yet to materialise, but the app was banned from French government employees phones alongside TikTok in the same month.

The app is also partially blocked in India, South Korea, and Tanzania.
A Democratic lawmaker who made political enemies within his own party for routinely voting in step with Kansas Republicans lost reelection in a four-way primary Tuesday.

State Rep. Marvin Robinson, of Kansas City, Kansas, lost the race to Wanda Brownlee Paige, one of three challengers who ran on the Democratic ticket this year. Paige, a retired schoolteacher, was leading with 49% of the vote as the Associated Press called the contest Tuesday night.

Paige is now slated to represent House District 35, a longtime Democratic stronghold centered in northeastern Kansas City, Kansas. She faces a clear path to election in November as no Republican candidate is on the ballot.

During her campaign, Paige cast herself as a strong organizer who can better advocate for the interests of her community in the Legislature. Some of her top goals include bettering public education and finding tax relief for her neighbors.

In the leadup to the primary, Paige and her fellow challengers criticized Robinson over his policy decisions in Topeka that broke ranks with Democratic leaders and aligned with key Republican goals.

First elected in 2022, Robinson entered the House with a primary objective of finding state support for revitalization of the Quindaro Townsite, a historically significant Civil War-era stop along the Underground Railroad.

Before joining the Legislature, Robinson spent decades working to advance the areas restoration and boost its national recognition. Critics have since accused him of abandoning other needs in the district for the prospect of state funding for Quindaro.

Among the policy positions his opponents criticized were Robinsons votes to deny Medicaid expansion, limit access to food assistance, add abortion restrictions and undo diversity and equity policies at publicly funded colleges.

Robinson also received wider criticism from fellow Democrats and activists over his consequential votes on veto overrides that enacted sweeping rights restrictions on transgender Kansans.

In the wake of Robinsons party defection, some influential supporters abandoned him during his reelection campaign.

Organized labor groups, including the local chapter of the United Auto Workers, instead backed Paige, an elected member of the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools Board. Gov. Laura Kellys political action committee also supported Paiges candidacy.

During the highly competitive Democratic primary, Robinson had newfound support from another source: Kansas conservatives.

In the final weeks and days before Tuesdays primary, conservative political action committees paid for advertisements to boost Robinsons reelection campaign.

One of those groups, Lift Up Kansas PAC, issued mailers prominently displaying former President Barack Obama that said Robinson helped bring the change to Kansas.

Over the weekend, the Kansas Democratic Party and Wyandotte Democratic Party took the rare step of publicly condemning an ad made on behalf of a fellow Democrat. The party called the move insulting to voters, including the African American community at large, in a district where roughly 40% of residents are Black.

We are appalled by the latest mailing in the House District 35 race implying some sort of vague association between Marvin Robinson and President Barack Obama, the Democrats said in a joint statement, adding that it was no surprise Republicans were working to improve Robinsons reelection prospects.

The outcome Tuesday marked a rare example of a district representatives ousting during a primary. Before Robinsons election, the seat was held by his cousin, retired state Rep. Broderick Henderson, from 1995 until 2022.

Other challengers in the race were Michelle Watley, founder of local advocacy nonprofit Shirleys Kitchen Cabinet, and Kimberly DeWitt, a business consultant specializing in information technology.

Robinson was the only of three sitting state lawmakers from Wyandotte County to lose reelection in the local primaries Tuesday.

Longtime Sen. David Haley, a Kansas City, Kansas Democrat, easily defeated challenger Ephren Taylor III in a primary race to represent Senate District 4.

Haley is a lawmaker who boasts 30 years of elected experience and deep community ties. He faced some backlash this year over his recorded yes-vote on a controversial proposal to enact a flat income tax rate.

Taylor, a 20-year-old community organizer, promoted his youth and relative inexperience in Kansas politics as benefits, inviting voters to elect a new state senator to represent the area for the first time since 2000.

Easily warding off a primary challenger Tuesday was Republican Rep. Mike Thompson of Bonner Springs, who won a contest against Clifton Boje, a private music teacher and anti-abortion activist.

Seven more state Democratic lawmakers whose districts fall entirely or substantially within Wyandotte County  Reps. Louis Ruiz, Pam Curtis, Valdenia Winn, Lynn Melton and Melissa Oropeza of Kansas City, Kansas; Sen. Pat Pettey of Kansas City, Kansas; and Sen. Jeff Pittman of Leavenworth  faced no primary challenger. Only Winn is uncontested on the Nov. 5 ballot.
Embattled Providence scrapyard allowed to reopen, but not right away

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  An embattled scrap metal yard has been given the green light to open back up, but not until the Providence business starts implementing a fire mitigation plan.

Rhode Island Recycled Metals was ordered to temporarily close last month after flames engulfed the Allens Avenue scrapyard, producing a thick plume of smoke that could be seen for miles. It was the second fire at the scrapyard since April and the fourth in the past six years.

R.I. Superior Court Judge Brian Stern decided Wednesday to allow the scrapyard to reopen, adding that he is pleased with the fire mitigation plan. However, the scrapyard must begin taking the proper steps to prevent future fires before doing so.

Specifically, Stern ordered the scrapyard to install infrared security cameras before resuming operations. The scrapyard must also obtain a certificate of compliance and provide proof that the cameras are fully operational.

Lawyers representing the scrapyard told the judge that the infrared cameras have already been ordered and should arrive within a few days. The infrared cameras, according to R.I. Recycled Metals, are designed to detect abnormal heat hidden within the scrap piles long before the flames are even visible.

The scrapyards fire mitigation plan, which was recommended by a court-appointed special master, also includes keeping a 500-gallon water truck on site, upgrading its fire suppression systems, reducing the size of its scrap piles and implementing enhanced employee training.

Stern didnt specify whether the rest of the fire mitigation plan needs to be implemented before the scrapyard reopens.

R.I. Department of Environmental Management (DEM) Director Terry Gray and R.I. Attorney General Peter Neronha have argued against the special masters fire mitigation plan, stating that the scrapyard cannot be trusted to operate its business safely.

In an objection letter filed in R.I. Superior Court Wednesday morning, Neronha and Gray accused the scrapyard of not adhering to court-ordered plans, noting that its cooperation simply cannot be guaranteed.

Neronha has repeatedly called for the scrapyard to be shut down the scrapyard indefinitely and placed it into receivership, which is the state-equivalent of federal bankruptcy.

He expressed disappointment in Sterns decision to let the scrapyard reopen.

Rhode Island Recycled Metals forfeited its right to manage its own business a long time ago, he said in a statement. Im not holding my breath for this business to suddenly change course and behave responsibly.

Neronha stressed that he will continue to fight for those who live nearby, which he claims are continuously subjected to significant health risks, pollutants and the very tangible threat of dangerous fires.

This fight is not over, Neronha continued. My office will continue to push forward on our pending litigation to move this company into a receivership so that its management can do no further harm, as well as keep up the pressure to ensure that its remediation requirements, including removal of the tugboat, are not further neglected.

Mayor Brett Smiley told 12 News ahead of Wednesdays court hearing he remains skeptical the business could operate responsibly.

Even things, like their updated fire mitigation plan, sort of beg the question of why wasnt that always the fire mitigation plan? Smiley questioned. Why did it have to take a couple of fires in order to keep a water truck on site?

Smiley told 12 News during an unrelated live interview after the court hearing that he too was disappointed with the ruling.

The court case isnt over. I trust that the [Neronha] will see through the other pending issue that hes continuing to litigate, Smiley said.

R.I. Recycled Metals spokesman Patrick Sweeney told 12 News the scrapyards goal is to reopen on Friday or Monday.

Shiina LoSciuto and Kim Kalunian contributed to this report.

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NEW YORK (PIX11)  People will be watching the skies and the weather forecasts all week as heavy rain, storms, and flooding are all on the radar through the end of the week.

To prepare for a storm, crews must accomplish a lot of work to prevent unnecessary flooding and blocked tracks.

More Local News

Crews with the NYC Departments of Sanitation and Environmental Protection get ahead of the storm by cleaning streets and catch basins. When these are blocked, the water heads to the lowest point. MTA and NYC Transit crews clear drains and grates in stations and on tracks.

Most of the people outside told PIX11 News they have to remember the umbrella.

By Tuesday 4:30 pm, the rain had arrived along Broadway at West 157th Street in Washington Heights. Its an uptown area that has seen flooding in the past.

The slow-moving showers drenched some neighborhoods while others were dry. Its a hint of whats coming.

New York City deploys drones to warn residents of weather

I look forward to the rain it cleans the streets, said Solange Collins as she finished errands uptown.

The MTA and NJ Transit pre-position crews to remove trees. Wind is also expected to be a problem.

When we have seen this level of threat, it has been bad days of major flooding. NYC, Rockland, Nassau, pay attention and be aware, said Commissioner Jackie Bray with NY Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

Chainsaw crews, pump trains, and debris-clearing vehicles are ready.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
EMMET COUNTY  Emmet County voters saw a number of contested races on the Aug. 6 ballot, from the U.S. Senator race to township supervisor positions.

A total of 10,989 ballots were cast during Tuesday's election in Emmet County.

For U.S. Senate, both the Democratic and Republican tickets had contested races. Elissa Slotkin received more votes from Emmet County voters than Hill Harper did, winning the Democratic nomination.

Slotkin received 2,776 votes, while Harper received 304.

Justin Amash, Sherry O'Donnell, Sandy Pensler and Mike Rogers all ran on the Republican ticket. Rogers brought in the most votes, receiving 3,519, while O'Donnell had 1,062 votes, Amash had 876 votes and Pensler had 690 votes.

A total of 10,989 ballots were cast during the Tuesday, Aug. 6 election in Emmet County.

The congressional representative seat for District 1 saw contested races in both parties on Aug. 6.

Callie Barr and Bob Lorinser both had their names on the Democratic ballot, with Barr bringing in 1,804 votes and Lorinser bringing in 1,210, according to unofficial results.

Jack Bergman and Josh Saul had their names on the Republican ballot for the same seat. Bergman won the vote, bringing in 5,136 votes, while Saul had 1,601.

For the Michigan House 107th seat, Emmet County voters could pick between Republicans Parker Fairbairn and incumbent Neil Friske on the Aug. 6 ballot. The winner will face Jodi Decker, who ran unopposed on the Democratic ticket, in November.

Fairbairn won the county's vote, receiving 4,828 votes as opposed to Friske's 2,194.

Emmet County saw a close race for sheriff. Current Undersheriff Matt Leirstein won the vote, bringing in 3,635, just 359 more than Randy Kloss' 3,276.

There were contested races for some Emmet County Board of Commissioners seats as well. Districts 1-2 saw contested races, while districts 3-7 were uncontested in the primary.

Mike Adams and Mark Sommers ran on the Democratic ticket to serve District 1, which represents Bliss, Cross Village, Carp Lake, Center, McKinley, Readmond and Wawatam townships, along with Pellston and part of Mackinaw City. Charles Laughbaum ran uncontested on the Republican ticket. Sommers won the Democratic nomination, earning 273 votes. Adams brought in 127 votes.

Neil Ahrens and Brett Gooding ran on the Republican ticket to serve District 2, which represents Friendship, Maple River, Pleasantview and West Traverse townships. Both candidates were separated by just one vote, with Gooding bringing in 585 votes compared to Ahrens' 584.

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Voters in certain townships also saw contested races for various positions, including township supervisor and trustee roles.

In West Traverse Township, Dawson Moore and Edward Murphy ran for the township supervisor position on the Republican ticket. Murphy received 318 votes and Moore received 224 votes.

Resort Township saw Christian Picciolini and incumbent Bob Wheaton running on the Republican ticket for the position of Resort Township Supervisor. Wheaton won, having received 495 votes. Picciolini received 291 votes.

Resort voters were able to choose from three candidates to fill two open seats for township trustee. Nicholas Cononico, Tim Howard and Alfred Welsheimer ran on the Republican ticket. Howard took home the most votes with 493, followed by Welsheimer with 371 and Cononico with 289.

Winning candidates from the Aug. 6 election will be on the ballot in the Nov. 5 general election.

 Contact reporter Karly Graham atkgraham@petoskeynews.com. Follow her on Twitter at@KarlyGrahamJRN.

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Emmet County election results: District 2 commissioner race decided by one vote
BlackRock Inc (NYSE:BLK) maintains a dominant position as the world's largest asset manager with $10.473 trillion in AUM.

BLK's diverse product mix and global client base provide a robust foundation for sustained growth.

Recent strategic acquisitions signal BlackRock's commitment to expanding its technological and data capabilities.

Market trends and regulatory changes pose both opportunities and threats to BlackRock's future performance.

On August 6, 2024, BlackRock Inc (NYSE:BLK), the world's preeminent asset manager, disclosed its latest SEC 10-Q filing, revealing a financial landscape characterized by significant assets under management (AUM) totaling $10.473 trillion as of March 2024. BLK's product mix remains diverse, with a majority in equity strategies and a substantial portion in fixed income, multi-asset classes, money market funds, and alternatives. The company's passive strategies, particularly its ETF platform, continue to command a leading market share both domestically and globally. Institutional clients form the backbone of BLK's AUM, while the company's geographical diversity, with a substantial portion of managed assets from outside the US and Canada, underscores its global reach. This SWOT analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as presented in the 10-Q filing, providing a comprehensive overview to inform investment decisions.

Decoding BlackRock Inc (BLK): A Strategic SWOT Insight

Strengths

Market Leadership and Brand Equity: BlackRock Inc (NYSE:BLK) stands as the largest asset manager globally, a testament to its robust brand equity and market leadership. The company's $10.473 trillion in AUM as of March 2024 reflects a commanding presence in the financial industry. This strength is underpinned by BLK's leading position in the ETF market, with its iShares platform maintaining significant market share. The brand's reputation for innovation and performance has fostered a loyal customer base, which is crucial for maintaining and growing AUM.

Diversified Product Portfolio: BLK's product mix is well-diversified, with 54% in equity strategies, 27% in fixed income, and the remainder spread across multi-asset classes, money market funds, and alternatives. This diversification allows BLK to cater to a wide range of investor needs and market conditions, mitigating risks associated with market volatility. Moreover, the company's emphasis on passive strategies aligns with the growing investor preference for low-cost investment options, further solidifying its competitive position.

Story continues

Global Client Base and Institutional Focus: With clients in over 100 countries and approximately 80% of AUM attributed to institutional clients, BLK's global footprint and institutional focus are significant strengths. This client base provides stable, long-term inflows and a broad platform for cross-selling products and services. The institutional focus also aligns with BLK's expertise in managing large-scale investments, reinforcing its competitive advantage in the asset management sector.

Weaknesses

Regulatory and Compliance Risks: As a global financial institution, BLK is subject to complex and evolving regulatory environments across different jurisdictions. Compliance with these regulations requires significant resources and can impact operational flexibility. The 10-Q filing indicates that regulatory changes and scrutiny could pose challenges, necessitating ongoing investment in compliance infrastructure to mitigate potential risks.

Reliance on Market Performance: BLK's revenue is closely tied to market performance, particularly given its substantial AUM in equity strategies. Market downturns can lead to decreased asset values and, consequently, lower management fees. This inherent weakness underscores the importance of maintaining a diversified product portfolio and developing strategies to manage market risk effectively.

Operational Complexity: Managing $10.473 trillion in AUM across a diverse range of products and services introduces significant operational complexity. The need to integrate and streamline operations, particularly following acquisitions, presents ongoing challenges that require careful management to ensure efficiency and client satisfaction.

Opportunities

Technological Advancements: BLK's investment in technology, including its Aladdin platform, positions the company to capitalize on the growing demand for sophisticated investment and risk management tools. The recent acquisitions of GIP and Preqin, as mentioned in the 10-Q filing, demonstrate BLK's commitment to enhancing its technological capabilities, offering opportunities to expand its service offerings and client base.

Expansion into Alternative Investments: The increasing investor interest in alternative investments presents an opportunity for BLK to grow its AUM in this segment. The company's 3% allocation to alternatives indicates potential for expansion, which could provide higher-margin revenue streams and diversification benefits.

Geographic Expansion: With over one-third of managed assets coming from outside the US and Canada, BLK has a significant opportunity to further expand its international presence. Emerging markets, in particular, offer growth potential as wealth accumulation and the adoption of investment services increase.

Threats

Market Volatility and Economic Uncertainty: Market volatility and economic downturns can adversely affect BLK's AUM and revenue. The company's exposure to equity markets means that sustained market declines could lead to reduced fee income and pressure on profit margins.

Competitive Pressure: The asset management industry is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. BLK faces competition from traditional asset managers, as well as fintech companies and other non-traditional entrants that may offer innovative products or lower fees.

Reputational Risk: As a leading asset manager, BLK's brand and reputation are critical to its success. Any negative events, such as regulatory breaches or underperformance, could harm BLK's reputation and affect its ability to attract and retain clients

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.


Rare emergency order issued to stop use of weed killer that poses significant risk to fetuses

Dacthal is commonly used for weed control with crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions. (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press)

For the record:

11:14 a.m. Aug. 9, 2024: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated it could take months before Dacthal products could be pulled. While cancellation proceedings can take months, the Environmental Protection Agencys emergency order to suspend the sale and use of Dacthal products is effective immediately.



Federal regulators issued a rare emergency order Tuesday to immediately stop the use of a popular weed killer they say causes significant risk to farmworkers and fetuses.

The product, dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate, better known as DCPA or Dacthal, "is so dangerous that it needs to be removed from the market immediately," said Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

The chemical is commonly used for weed control with crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions. The EPA has warned of the chemical's health risks in the past, but this is the first time in nearly 40 years the agency has issued an emergency order to suspend its use and comes after more than a decade of studying its risks and effects.

"It's EPA's job to protect people from exposure to dangerous chemicals," Freedhoff said in the statement. "In this case, pregnant women who may never even know they were exposed could give birth to babies that experience irreversible lifelong health problems."

Read more: How dirty is your weed? A joint investigation finds high levels of pesticides in products

Pregnant women exposed to Dacthal, often unknowingly, could experience changes in fetal thyroid hormone levels, which could result in low birth weight, impaired brain development, lower IQ and impaired motor skills later in life, the EPA warned.

Pregnant women handling Dacthal could be exposing their unborn children to dangerous chemicals at levels four to 20 times greater than is deemed safe, according to agency estimates. Health risks persisted even when personal protective equipment was being used, the agency found.

For example, package labels recommend restricting access to herbicide-treated fields for only 12 hours after use, but the EPA alleges levels of Dacthal in treated fields were still unsafe 25 days after it was applied. The movement of the weed killer through the air to areas near treated fields could also put fetuses and pregnant women at risk, the EPA said.

The EPA's decision was applauded by groups advocating for farmworker safety.

"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," said Mily Trevino Sauceda, executive director of Alianza Nacional de Campesinas. "Alianza is pleased to see the EPA make this historic decision."

Read more: Its environmental racism: Monterey County sued over farm chemicals near mostly Latino schools

According to data from the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, Dacthal is used in California.

In a statement, the department said it would be reaching out to county agricultural commissioners to "immediately enforce U.S. EPA's order to suspend use and sales of DCPA in California."

The Department of Pesticide Regulation has been working with the EPA on its evaluation of Dacthal, as well as with growers about possible alternatives in anticipation of the EPA's decision.

According to the state department, more than half of the use of Dacthal in California is for broccoli and onion crops, according to its 2022 records.

That year, growers used more than 188,000 pounds of Dacthal.

The pesticide is also used for other crops, such as cabbage in Fresno County, bok choy in Kern County and radish in Imperial County.

"Farmworkers should not have to put their children at risk by doing the work needed to grow our food," Teresa Romero, president of United Farm Workers, said in a statement. "EPA is taking the right step."

According to the EPA, in 2013 the agency asked AMVAC Chemical Corp., the manufacturer of Dacthal, to submit paperwork, including more than 20 studies on the chemical, to the agency to review the herbicide's registration.

The EPA considered much of the data submitted by the company from 2013 to 2021 to be insufficient, and found that a required study looking into the weed killer's effects on thyroid development, due in 2016, was never submitted.

The thyroid study was ultimately submitted in August 2022, but the EPA had already issued a notice of intent to suspend the technical-grade production of Dacthal.

Read more: California moves to ban the use of paraquat, a powerful weedkiller

Since then, AMVAC has voluntarily suspended the use of the weed killer on turf, but the EPA alleges that any continued use of the herbicide presents unacceptable risks.

In a brief email, AMVAC did not address the EPA's concerns or whether it would challenge the order.

"AMVAC is working in good faith with both the EPA and our customers to ensure full compliance," said Anthony Young, director of investor relations at the company.

Some advocacy groups said the EPA's decision was a long time coming.

"The EPA's decision to finally suspend DCPA is welcome news, but it's long overdue," Alexis Temkin, senior toxicologist for the Environmental Working Group, said in a statement. "For years, EWG and other public health advocates have warned about the serious risks the weedkiller poses to farmworkers, pregnant people and other vulnerable populations."

The emergency order is effective immediately, after the EPA determined, "there is no combination of practicable mitigations under which DCPA use can continue without presenting an imminent hazard."

The EPA said it could still take months before the product is permanently canceled because of procedural requirements. If the order is contested, it could take several years.

But according to the EPA, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act also allows the regulatory agency in some cases to seek a suspension of a pesticide while the cancellation proceedings are ongoing. According to the EPA, it will seek an immediate cancellation of Dacthal in the next 90 days.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- The Biden administration is following the paper trails of some biodiesel producers amid heightened concern the fuels are at times being made with deceptive ingredients that violate federal law.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The action by the Environmental Protection Agency comes as farm groups and a growing number of lawmakers press the government to address worries that used cooking oil, or UCO  a valuable ingredient for making renewable fuels - could be be fraudulent.

The audits seek to track the source of UCO, with at least two probes nearing completion and others expected to start soon, according to people familiar with the matter. Reuters earlier reported the EPA probes.

The probes, reported earlier by Reuters, follow a wave of UCO coming from China and beyond that is flooding the US market and undercutting producers of American-grown feedstocks, such as soy or corn oil. The scrutiny is tied to EPA policy dating back at least two years, with the agency long planning audits of company records tracking their collection of used cooking oil from various sources.

An EPA spokesperson described the inspections as part of routine evaluation of compliance with US biofuel policy.

EPA has conducted inspections of renewable fuel producers which include, among others, an evaluation of the locations that used cooking oil used in renewable fuel production was collected, the agency said in an emailed statement. The agency declined to elaborate or identify producers.

Its not clear if the EPA has a presumption about possible fraud taking place, which includes suspicion that UCO from Asia may not be authentic and instead is mixed with fresh vegetable oils, such as palm, potentially distorting commodity values and undermining US biofuel laws.

Palm, one of the worlds most widely used vegetable oils, is a bane to environmentalists and many countries because the industry is tied to labor abuses and is a key driver of deforestation in places such as Indonesia.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.)  El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal decided to continue Stage I Fire Restrictions for all unincorporated areas of El Paso County last week.

On Wednesday, Aug. 7, Sheriff Joseph Roybal, Fire Warden, announced the fire restrictions would remain for the time being. Current restrictions had taken effect in late July due to the high chance of fire and multiple forest fires burning in Northern Colorado.

Why are burn restrictions enforced? EPSO weighs in

Although precipitation levels and fuel conditions have improved throughout the Pikes Peak region, our indicators continue to demonstrate the need for precautions. Other fires across the nation, including the Front Range of Colorado, have drawn down readily available resources, which is a critical part of the decision-making matrix my Office uses when considering restrictions, said Roybal. Considering these circumstances, I am opting to remain vigilant in my approach to fire and will remain in Stage I Fire Restrictions for the time being.

Stage I Fire Restrictions in effect prohibit the following activities:

Open burning , with the exception of fires and campfires within permanently constructed fire grates in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds; charcoal grills and wood-burning stoves at private residences in areas cleared (three feet distance) of all flammable materials.

Any use of fireworks without a professional display permit, outdoor pyrotechnics such as explosive targets or model rockets.

Outdoor smoking , except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter, barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

Welding or operating an acetylene or similar torch with an open flame is prohibited except in an area cleared of vegetation.

No internal combustion engine operation without a spark arresting device properly installed and in working order.

Prescribed burns: any previously issued permits for such burns are revoked.

The fire restrictions will remain until they are modified under El Paso County Ordinance #22-001.

El Paso County under Stage 1 fire restrictions

My staff briefs me regularly on current fuel conditions to ensure the most appropriate restriction level is maintained, Roybal stated. As your Sheriff, I will continue to monitor conditions and make appropriate, responsible decisions about lifting, maintaining, or increasing county-wide restrictions in the future.

EPSO urges all citizens of and visitors to the Pikes Peak region to abide by the Order and share in the responsibility of keeping the community safe.

I thank the citizens (and visitors) of El Paso County for their vigilance and dedication to preventing unnecessary wildfires, Roybal said. Prevention requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I am grateful to see our community actively working and engaged in this effort.

EPSO is asking individuals to please report any suspected violations of the Order by calling (719) 390-5555.

For more fire information, click the link 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 FOX21 News Colorado.
(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.)  On Wednesday, Aug. 7, the El Paso County Sheriffs Office (EPSO) honored the second anniversary of the death of Deputy Andrew Peery, remembering his bravery and dedication to protecting the community.

In a post by EPSO, Peery was remembered as a hero who faced danger head-on and never hesitated to put the safety of others before his own. The post went on to say, Let us take a moment today to remember Deputy Andrew Peery, honor his sacrifice, and reaffirm our dedication to the values he held dear. We miss you, Andrew, and we will never forget the impact one man can have.

Courtesy: El Paso County Sheriffs Office

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Details on OIS and fallen Deputy Peery released

Deputy Peery was killed in the line of duty during an officer-involved shooting on Ponderosa Drive in Security-Widefield on the evening of Aug. 7, 2022. He was hit by gunfire and gravely injured and later died in the hospital. Another woman and the shooter also died in the incident.

Deputy Peery was also an Army veteran who had served in Iraq and Afghanistan as an Airborne Infantryman. He was described as an exemplary soldier who always strived to serve his country with honor.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
J.D. Vance exchanged messages with a notorious right-wing conspiracy theorist asking for his thoughts on a range of subjects including Jeffrey Epstein, according to a report.

Messages sent over the encrypted messaging app Signal between Donald Trumps running mate and Charles Chuck Johnson show Vance entertaining conspiracy theories himself as well as expressing doubt that Trump would, in fact, choose him as his VP pick, according to The Washington Post. Johnsonwho gave the messages to the newspapercontacted Vance to congratulate him the day after he was elected to U.S. Senate two years ago.

Florida (Congress)Man Invited Infamous Troll Chuck Johnson to Trumps State of The Union

Johnson, a blogger who has previously made comments which cast doubt on the Holocaust, now self-describes as a government informant aiming to protect the U.S. from foreign influence, according to the Post. The outlet claims Johnson and Vance had a mostly friendly correspondence in the 20 months lasting until the weeks before Trump tapped Vance to be his running mate.

The Ohio senator solicited Johnsons views on many topics, according to the Post. He reportedly asked for Johnsons read on UFOs, asked if he thought Epstein actually killed himself, and enquired about the Republican Partys attitude toward Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asking: What is GOP Bibi problem?

Vance reportedly asked Johnson if he believed Epstein died by suicidethe conclusion reached by New York Citys medical examinerin response to a tweet that Johnson had sent about the sex offenders death in 2019. Also havent followed story closely but he seemed like a genuinely bad dude, Vance added of Epstein, according to the Post.

Its not clear how Johnson responded, but Johnson has recently pushed wild conspiracies about the circumstances surrounding Epsteins death in public. I want to say emphatically that Jeffrey Epstein died in the service of our country, he tweeted last month, adding that he believes Ghislaine Maxwell ought to be released. Maxwell was jailed in 2022 for conspiring with Epstein abuse underage girls.

Vance also spoke with Johnson about who was behind the Nord Stream Pipeline sabotage and described his opposition to listening to Ukraines calls for U.S. military aid during its war with Russia. Dude I wont even take calls from Ukraine, Vance wrote in October. Two very senior guys reached out to me. The head of their intel. The head of the Air Force. Bitching about F16s.

The leaked messages also show Vance speaking about Sheldon Adelson, the Republican megadonor who died in January 2021. Im pretty sure he gave me shit, Vance reportedly wrote in response to a suggestion that he should read an article about Adelsons influence. Never met him, he wrote last year. Hes dead. Dont care.

Adelsons widow, Miriam Adelson, gave $2,900 to Vances Senate campaign and recently contributed $5 million to a pro-Trump super PAC, according to the Post. A spokesman for the Adelson family said Miriam spoke with Vance about the message to Johnson, and that she is unfazed and will continue to have a good relationship with Vance.

As reports emerged that Vance was among the favorites to be chosen as Trumps running mate, Johnson messaged Vance on June 24: Congratulations. Good luck. For what? Vance reportedly replied six days later. You assume too much!

Dont take it when its offered. Its a trap, Johnson warned. Haha, Vance in response. Doubt its offered. Well see.

Chuck Johnson spam texted J.D. Vance, William Martin, a spokesman for the senator, told the Post. J.D. usually ignored him, but occasionally responded to push back against things he said.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Temperatures will climb even hotter Wednesday afternoon with highs in the 90s and 100s. Storm chances also increase Wednesday, with heavier rainfall Thursday.

Tuesday is our driest day this week, with isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms in the northern mountains, southern Colorado, and in the Gallup area. These storms may spread to more of northwest New Mexico through the evening before ending overnight. It is also even hotter out there today, with more areas climbing into the mid and upper 90s this afternoon.

Better moisture will be drawn into New Mexico from the north Wednesday afternoon, bringing more scattered afternoon storms across northern New Mexico. Isolated storms will also be possible down to the Gila and Sacramento Mountains, with an isolated storm chance in the Metro Wednesday evening. Wednesday will also be the hottest day this week, with highs in the mid and upper 90s and triple-digits across the state.

A backdoor cold front will move into northeast New Mexico Thursday morning, increasing the amount of moisture in the atmosphere. This will cause more showers and thunderstorms to develop Thursday afternoon from the northern mountains into northeast New Mexico, where heavy rain and flash flooding may also be possible. Rain chances will also expand across more of the state Thursday. The front will cool temperatures off a few degrees heading into the end of the week. There will be another good chance for afternoon showers and thunderstorms Friday, with the exception of south-central and southeastern New Mexico.

Drier air returns again this weekend, but isolated afternoon storms will continue mainly across northern and northwestern New Mexico, along with southern Colorado. A traditional monsoon patter will set up early next week though, bringing higher chances for afternoon storms again across western and central New Mexico.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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People shake hands with army personnel as they celebrate the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina in Dhaka

People shake hands with army personnel as they celebrate the resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina in Dhaka

By Ruma Paul, Krishn Kaushik and Devjyot Ghoshal

DHAKA/NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The night before long-time leader Sheikh Hasina abruptly fled Bangladesh amid deadly protests, her army chief held a meeting with his generals and decided that troops would not open fire on civilians to enforce a curfew, two serving army officers with knowledge of the discussions told Reuters.

Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman then reached out to Hasina's office, conveying to the prime minister that his soldiers would be unable to implement the lockdown she had called for, according to an Indian official briefed on the matter.

The message was clear, the official said: Hasina no longer had the army's support.

Details of the online meeting between military top brass and the message to Hasina that she had lost their backing have not previously been reported.

They help to explain how Hasina's 15-year rule, during which she brooked little dissent, came to such a chaotic and sudden end on Monday, when she fled from Bangladesh to India.

The nationwide curfew had been imposed after at least 91 people were killed and hundreds injured in nationwide clashes on Sunday, the deadliest day since student-led protests against Hasina began in July.

Army spokesman Lt. Col. Sami Ud Dowla Chowdhury confirmed the Sunday evening discussions, which he described as a regular meeting to take updates after any disturbance. He did not provide details when presented with additional questions about decision-making at that meeting.

Hasina could not be reached and her son and advisor, Sajeeb Wazed, did not respond to repeated requests for comment.

Reuters spoke to ten people familiar with the events of the past week, including four serving army officers and two other informed sources in Bangladesh, to piece together the final 48 hours of Hasina's reign. Many of them spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Hasina, who has ruled Bangladesh for 20 of the last 30 years, was elected to a fourth term leading the country of 170 million in January, after arresting thousands of opposition leaders and workers. That election was boycotted by her main rivals.

Her iron-fisted grasp on power has been challenged since summer by protests triggered by a court ruling to reserve government jobs - heavily coveted amid high youth unemployment - for certain segments of the population. The decision was overturned but the demonstrations had quickly morphed into a movement to oust Hasina.

Zaman has not publicly explained his decision to withdraw support from Hasina. But the scale of the protests and a death toll of at least 241 made supporting Hasina at all costs untenable, three former senior Bangladesh army officers told Reuters.

"There was a lot of uneasiness within the troops," said retired Brig. Gen. M. Sakhawat Hossain. "That is what probably (put) pressure on the chief of army staff, because the troops are out and they are seeing what is happening."

Zaman, who is related to Hasina by marriage, had showed signs of wavering in his support for the prime minister on Saturday, when he sat on an ornate wooden chair and addressed hundreds of uniformed officers in a town hall meeting. The military later made some details of that discussion public.

The general declared that lives had to be protected and called on his officers to show patience, said army spokesman Chowdhury.

It was the first indication that Bangladesh's army would not forcefully suppress the violent demonstrations, leaving Hasina vulnerable.

Retired senior soldiers such as Brig. Gen. Mohammad Shahedul Anam Khan were among those who defied the curfew on Monday and took to the streets.

"We were not stopped by the army," said Khan, a former infantry soldier. "The army has done what he had promised the army would do."

'SHORT NOTICE'

On Monday, the first full day of the indefinite nationwide curfew, Hasina was holed up inside the Ganabhaban, or "People's Palace", a heavily-guarded complex in the capital Dhaka that serves as her official residence.

Outside, on the streets of the sprawling city, crowds gathered. Tens of thousands of people had answered protest leaders' call for a march to oust the leader, streaming into the heart of the city.

With the situation spiralling out of her control, the 76-year-old leader decided to flee the country on Monday morning, according to the Indian official and two Bangladesh nationals familiar with the matter.

Hasina and her sister, who lives in London but was in Dhaka at the time, discussed the matter and flew out together, according to a Bangladesh source. They left for India around lunch, local time.

Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told parliament on Tuesday that New Delhi had urged "various political forces with whom we were in touch" to resolve the situation via dialogue throughout July.

But as crowds gathered in Dhaka on Monday ignoring the curfew, Hasina decided to resign "after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment", he added. "At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India."

A second Indian official said it was "diplomatically" conveyed to Hasina that her stay had to be temporary for fear of negatively impacting Delhi's ties with the next government in Dhaka. India's Ministry of External Affairs did not immediately return a request for comment.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, whom the protesting students want to lead the interim government after Hasina's ouster, told The New Indian Express newspaper that India had "good ties with the wrong people... Please revisit your foreign policy."

Yunus wasn't immediately available for an interview.

Late in the afternoon on Monday, a Bangladesh Air Force C130 transport aircraft landed at Hindon air base outside Delhi, with Hasina on board.

There, she was met by Ajit Doval, India's powerful national security advisor, according to the Indian security official.

Delhi had fought to carve Bangladesh out of East Pakistan in 1971. After Hasina's father was assassinated in 1975, Hasina took refuge in India for years and built deep links with her neighbour's political elite.

Returning to Bangladesh, she gained power in 1996, and was seen as more sensitive to India's security concerns than her political rivals. The Hindu-majority nation also regarded her secular stance as favourable for the 13 million Hindus in Bangladesh.

But back in Bangladesh, resentment still lingered even among retired soldiers that Hasina had been allowed to leave.

"Personally, I feel that she should not have been given a safe passage," said Khan, the veteran. "That was a folly."

(Additional reporting by Mohammad Ponir Hossain, Sudarshan Varadhan, Sarita Singh Chaganti and Sudipto Ganguly; Writing by Devjyot Ghoshal; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Katerina Ang)
Exclusive-France seeks FBI help in probe of high-speed train sabotage hours before Olympics

By Gabriel Stargardter

PARIS (Reuters) - Police in France investigating the sabotage of high-speed rail lines hours before the Paris Olympics' Opening Ceremony have asked the U.S. FBI for help, two sources with direct knowledge of the French inquiry said.

Investigators called in the FBI after media organisations, including Reuters, received an email the police believe may have been sent by the perpetrators. It set out a rambling list of grievances but did not explicitly claim responsibility.

The email, signed by "an unexpected delegation", was sent from a riseup.net address, a Seattle-based collective that says it provides "communication and computer resources to allies engaged in struggles against capitalism and other forms of oppression".

The saboteurs targeted four high-speed TGV lines heading into Paris with incendiary devices, causing travel chaos hours before a global audience tuned in to follow the parade of Olympic athletes along the River Seine on July 26.

There have been no arrests. French officials suspect domestic far-left groups, but have not ruled out foreign involvement.

As riseup.net is U.S.-based, French police have asked the FBI to push that organisation to identify the email account-holder, the two sources told Reuters.

The FBI declined to comment.

Riseup did not respond to an emailed request for comment.

The FBI would need to subpoena Riseup to hand over the details, but Riseup would be unlikely to comply.

"We will actively fight any attempt to subpoena or otherwise acquire any user information," it says on its website. "We do not share any of our user data with anyone."

In a 2020 interview with Belarusian anarchist group Pramen, Riseup said it had never complied with a foreign legal request.

"We regularly get legal requests from all around the world. We are not required to respond, and so our policy is to not."

However, the FBI has previously served warrants on Riseup.

In 2012, FBI agents seized a server used by Riseup as part of a probe into bomb threats. In 2017, Riseup begrudgingly complied with two FBI warrants seeking the identity of accounts involved in extortion.

The author of the email railed against France's arms, energy and nuclear sectors, and criticised a TGV network as only benefiting "a few privileged people". They said the impact of the attacks - "spoiling tourists' trips or disrupting holiday departures" - was minimal when compared with the legacy of a transport system that has "always been a means for the colonisation of new territories".

FOREIGN FINGERPRINTS?

Both sources said French investigators have yet to find firm evidence of foreign involvement.

One source said police are looking for a possible link to a 2023 hack of the Polish rail system, which Polish intelligence initially believed was carried out by Russia.

In December, a Polish court sentenced 14 citizens of Ukraine, Belarus and Russia for spying for Russia. The operatives were monitoring rail transports of arms for Ukraine via Poland and planning to disrupt them.

France has accused Russia of waging a concerted disinformation campaign to sow chaos ahead of the Olympic Games, now in their second week. French police arrested a Russian man in July suspected of planning to destabilise the Olympics.

The Russian Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request for comment lodged after the sabotage incident.

Police have yet to establish a link to a similar sabotage of France's telecoms network two days after the TGV attacks, the sources said. Although both involved incendiary devices, one source said the explosive materials used were different.

One line of enquiry relates to explosive material found on a TGV line near Marseille on May 8 - the same day the Olympic torch arrived in the city. The explosive material was almost identical to that used in the July 26 attacks, the source said.

The prosecutor's office in Aix-en-Provence confirmed it was investigating, but declined to comment further.

French police are investigating former employees of state-owned rail operator SNCF, as well as third-party contractors, but one of the sources said much of the knowledge needed to undertake the TGV sabotage can easily be found online.

French police are also in talks with Italian, German and Spanish counterparts as the attacks may have been coordinated with anarchist groups from abroad, the source added.

Far-left and anarchist cells typically oppose the state and capitalism, and are increasingly incorporating environmental concerns into their ideologies, French officials say.

They have proven hard to penetrate, the two sources said.

Their members often live off-grid and are paranoid of outsiders. They shun mainstream communication channels and practice impeccable digital hygiene. As their attacks are generally non-lethal, they are less of a priority for security services predominantly focused on deadly Islamist militants.

(Reporting by Gabriel Stargardter; additional reporting by Sarah N. Lynch, Chris Bing and Marek Strzelecki; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Yoshua Bengio, founder and scientific director of Mila at the Quebec AI Institute, during a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology and the Law hearing in Washington, D.C. on July 25, 2023. Credit - BloombergGetty Images

On August 7, a group of renowned professors co-authored a letter urging key lawmakers to support a California AI bill as it enters the final stages of the states legislative process. In a letter shared exclusively with TIME, Yoshua Bengio, Geoffrey Hinton, Lawrence Lessig, and Stuart Russell argue that the next generation of AI systems pose severe risks if developed without sufficient care and oversight, and describe the bill as the bare minimum for effective regulation of this technology.

The bill, titled the Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act, was introduced by Senator Scott Wiener in February of this year. It requires AI companies training large-scale models to conduct rigorous safety testing for potentially dangerous capabilities and implement comprehensive safety measures to mitigate risks.

There are fewer regulations on AI systems that could pose catastrophic risks than on sandwich shops or hairdressers, the four experts write.

The letter is addressed to the respective leaders of the legislative bodies the bill must pass through if it is to become law: Mike McGuire, the president pro tempore of Californias senate, where the bill passed in May; Robert Rivas, speaker of the state assembly, where the bill will face a vote later this month; and state Governor Gavin Newsom, whoif the bill passes in the assemblymust sign or veto the proposed legislation by the end of September.

With Congress gridlocked and Republicans pledging to reverse Bidens AI executive order if elected in November, Californiathe worlds fifth-largest economy and home to many of the worlds leading AI developersplays what the authors see as an indispensable role in regulating AI. If passed, the bill would apply to all companies operating in the state.

While polls suggest the bill is supported by the majority of Californians, it has been subject to harsh opposition from industry groups and tech investors, who claim it would stifle innovation, harm the open-source community, and let China take the lead on AI development. Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz has been particularly critical of the bill, setting up a website that urges citizens to write to the legislature in opposition. Others, such as startup incubator YCombinator, Metas Chief AI Scientist Yann LeCun, and Stanford professor Fei-Fei Li (whose new $1 billion startup has received funding from Andreessen Horowitz) have also been vocal in their opposition.

The pushback has centered around provisions in the bill which would compel developers to provide reasonable assurances that an AI model will not pose unreasonable risk of causing critical harms, such as aiding in the creation of weapons of mass destruction or causing severe damage to critical infrastructure. The bill would only apply to systems that both cost over $100 million dollars to train and are trained using an amount of computing power above a specified threshold. These dual requirements imply the bill would likely only affect the largest AI developers. No currently existing system would be classified, Lennart Heim, a researcher at the RAND Corporations Technology and Security Policy Center, told TIME in June.

As some of the experts who understand these systems most, we can say confidently that these risks are probable and significant enough to make safety testing and common-sense precautions necessary, the authors of the letter write. Bengio and Hinton, who have previously supported the bill, are both winners of the Turing Award, and often referred to as godfathers of AI, alongside Yann LeCun. Russell has written a textbookArtificial Intelligence: A Modern Approachthat is widely considered to be the standard textbook on AI. And Lessig, a Professor of Law at Harvard, is broadly regarded as a founding figure of Internet law and a pioneer in the free culture movement, having founded the Creative Commons and authored influential books on copyright and technology law. In addition to the risks noted above, they cite risks posed by autonomous AI agents that could act without human oversight among their concerns.

Read More: Yoshua Bengio Is on the 2024 TIME100 List

I worry that technology companies will not solve these significant risks on their own while locked in their race for market share and profit maximization. That's why we need some rules for those who are at the frontier of this race," Bengio told TIME over email.

The letter rejects the notion that the bill would hamper innovation, stating that as written, the bill only applies to the largest AI models; that large AI developers have already made voluntary commitments to undertake many of the safety measures outlined in the bill; and that similar regulations in Europe and China are in fact more restrictive than SB 1047. It also praises the bill for its robust whistleblower protections for AI lab employees who report safety concerns, which are increasingly seen as necessary given reports of reckless behavior on the part of some labs.

In an interview with Vox last month, Senator Wiener noted that the bill has already been amended in response to criticism from the open-source community. The current version exempts original developers from shutdown requirements once a model is no longer in their control, and limits their liability when others make significant modifications to their models, effectively treating significantly modified versions as new models. Despite this, some critics believe the bill would require open-source models to have a kill switch.

Relative to the scale of risks we are facing, this is a remarkably light-touch piece of legislation, the letter says, noting that the bill does not have a licensing regime or require companies to receive permission from a government agency before training a model, and relies on self-assessments of risk. The authors further write: It would be a historic mistake to strike out the basic measures of this bill.

Over email, Lessig adds Governor Newsom will have the opportunity to cement California as a national first-mover in regulating AI. Legislation in California would meet an urgent need. With a critical mass of the top AI firms based in California, there is no better place to take an early lead on regulating this emerging technology.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Robust operating income growth showcases Molson Coors Beverage Co's (NYSE:TAP) resilience amidst market fluctuations.

Despite a slight dip in net sales, TAP's strategic initiatives hint at a promising trajectory for future growth.

Comprehensive SWOT analysis reveals TAP's competitive positioning and potential headwinds.

Recent financial performance underlines the company's adept management of costs and profitability.

On August 6, 2024, Molson Coors Beverage Co (NYSE:TAP), a leading brewer known for its iconic beer brands such as Miller, Coors, and Blue Moon, filed its 10-Q report with the SEC, providing a detailed financial snapshot of the company's performance. The report reveals a slight decrease in net sales by 0.4% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023, with figures standing at $3,252.3 million. However, the company's operating income saw a significant increase of 22.7%, indicating effective cost management and operational efficiency. The net income attributable to TAP also rose by 24.7%, showcasing the company's ability to maintain profitability despite market challenges. With over 80% of its revenue stemming from North America, TAP's financial health is critical for its strategic positioning and future growth.

Decoding Molson Coors Beverage Co (TAP): A Strategic SWOT Insight

Strengths

Brand Portfolio and Market Presence: Molson Coors Beverage Co (NYSE:TAP) boasts a diverse and well-established portfolio of beer brands, which has cemented its position as a leading player in the beverage industry. The company's flagship brands, such as Coors Light and Miller Lite, continue to dominate the market, supported by a loyal customer base and strong brand equity. This diverse brand portfolio enables TAP to cater to various consumer preferences and occasions, contributing to its robust market presence, particularly in North America.

Financial Performance and Cost Management: TAP's recent financial performance underscores its operational strength. Despite a marginal decline in net sales, the company has demonstrated a remarkable ability to manage costs and improve profitability. The 22.7% increase in operating income for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the previous year, reflects TAP's strategic focus on efficiency and cost control. This financial acumen positions the company well to invest in growth opportunities and navigate economic uncertainties.

Weaknesses

Market Share Challenges: While TAP holds a significant position in the market, it faces intense competition from other major players and craft breweries, which can erode its market share. The slight decrease in net sales and a 4.1% decline in financial volume in hectoliters for the quarter indicate potential challenges in maintaining market dominance. TAP must continuously innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences to sustain its competitive edge.

Story continues

Dependence on North American Market: TAP's heavy reliance on the North American market, which contributes over 80% of its total revenue, exposes the company to regional economic fluctuations and market-specific risks. Diversification into emerging markets could mitigate this dependence, but it also requires careful strategic planning to navigate different regulatory landscapes and consumer tastes.

Opportunities

Product Innovation and Diversification: The evolving beverage industry presents TAP with opportunities to innovate and diversify its product offerings. The growing popularity of hard seltzers, non-alcoholic beverages, and craft beers opens new avenues for TAP to expand its portfolio and reach new consumer segments. By leveraging its strong brand presence and distribution network, TAP can capitalize on these trends to drive growth.

Strategic Partnerships and Expansions: TAP's existing partnerships and licensing agreements with companies like Heineken and Coca-Cola provide a platform for collaborative innovation and market expansion. Exploring additional strategic alliances and expanding its global footprint, particularly in emerging markets, could offer TAP access to new consumers and revenue streams.

Threats

Regulatory and Legal Challenges: TAP operates in a highly regulated industry, and changes in laws or regulations can significantly impact its operations. The ongoing legal dispute with Stone Brewing Company, resulting in a $59.5 million accrued liability, highlights the potential financial and reputational risks associated with legal challenges. TAP must navigate these complexities carefully to avoid adverse effects on its business.

Market Volatility and Competition: The beverage industry is characterized by fierce competition and shifting consumer preferences. TAP faces the threat of losing market share to competitors, both large-scale brewers and niche craft beer producers. Additionally, economic volatility can affect consumer spending patterns, potentially impacting TAP's sales and profitability. Staying agile and responsive to market changes is crucial for TAP's sustained success.

In conclusion, Molson Coors Beverage Co (NYSE:TAP) exhibits a strong foundation with its diverse brand portfolio and solid financial performance. However, the company must address its market share challenges and dependence on the North American market to maintain its competitive position. Opportunities for product innovation and strategic expansions present promising prospects for growth, while regulatory hurdles and market competition pose significant threats. TAP's ability to leverage its strengths, mitigate its weaknesses, capitalize on opportunities, and navigate threats will be pivotal in shaping its future trajectory in the dynamic beverage industry.

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.


South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik talks during the meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara at the Defense Ministry in Tokyo

By Hyonhee Shin and Josh Smith

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea could rupture its U.S. alliance and shock financial markets if it started building nuclear weapons, Defence Minister Shin Won-sik told Reuters, dismissing renewed domestic calls for the country's own arsenal to deter North Korea.

As the neighbouring North rapidly expands nuclear and missile capabilities, more South Korean officials and members of President Yoon Suk Yeol's conservative ruling party have called in recent months for developing nuclear weapons.

The prospect of another term for former U.S. President Donald Trump, who complained about the cost of the U.S. military presence in South Korea and launched unprecedented talks with the North, has further fuelled the debate.

But Shin, a former three-star army general who also served as a lawmaker in Yoon's party, said having a homegrown nuclear arsenal risked devastating fallout to the South's diplomatic standing and economy, akin to what analysts called Black Monday this week for the stock market's worst losses since 2008.

"You'll face a huge crack in the U.S. alliance, and if we withdraw from the nuclear non-proliferation treaty, it would bring various penalties, starting with an immediate shock in our financial market," he said in an interview.

Shin acknowledged that the debate among politicians and foreign policy experts was a sign that many South Koreans were still anxious about American extended deterrence - the U.S. military capability, especially its nuclear forces.

But the allies' push to strengthen that deterrence is the "easiest, most effective and peaceful" way to counter the North's threats, he said.

PARADIGM SHIFT

Intensifying strategic rivalry between the United States and China and the Ukraine war have triggered a sweeping shift in the post-Cold War paradigm, putting South Korea near the centre of the turmoil and complicating its calculations, Shin said.

"Even in Northeast Asia, there are forces who are openly seeking to change the status quo by force, and we are at the forefront, directly affected," Shin said, speaking at his office in Seoul, the South Korean capital.

By clinching a strategic partnership treaty with Russia this year, North Korea has gone from "being a headache in Asia to a global villain," while Moscow tainted its own national prestige by "begging for help" from Pyongyang and betraying the international community with its war against Ukraine, he said.

South Korea responded by warning that it could consider arming Ukraine with lethal weapons, a potential shift from its policy of sticking to humanitarian and economic assistance, if Russia provides the North with advanced weapons technology.

Shin said North Korea received Russian assistance with a rocket engine used in a failed attempt in May to launch a spy satellite.

But he did not consider that to cross a "red line," saying he was focused instead on any transfer of technology linked with intercontinental ballistic missiles and nuclear weapons, as well as anti-air weapons, radars, tanks and fighter jets.

From last year until Aug. 4, North Korea has shipped more than 12,000 containers to Russia, enough to carry about 5.6 million 152-mm artillery shells, Shin said.

The actual number would vary because North Korea has sent three or four kinds of shells of different sizes, including rockets, and separately also supplied dozens of short-range missiles, he said.

While Yoon's administration has been more open in echoing Washington's calls for "like-minded nations" to stand together in the face of tension with China and Russia, Shin said South Korea has not discussed joining other U.S. allies and partners in naval exercises in the South China Sea, where Beijing has clashed with neighbours over maritime claims.

TENSION ACROSS THE KOREAN BORDER

Tension between the neighbours has flared in recent weeks, after North Korea floated thousands of balloons containing trash in protest against South Korean activists sending anti-Pyongyang leaflets.

Seoul resumed its loudspeaker broadcasts near the border for the first time in 2018, blaring news and K-pop music, which Shin called an "effective, stinging" form of psychological warfare.

Among newly added news was the surprising defection of Ri Il Gyu, who worked as a senior North Korean diplomat based in Cuba, and the participation of Jin, a member of the K-pop supergroup BTS, in the Paris Olympics' torch relay.

"I understand that North Korea has been struggling to block BTS' popularity as there was a craze among young people imitating their dances," Shin said, declining to identify the source of the information.

"The loudspeaker campaign would have a long-term impact as a key catalyst in driving change in society, and could potentially provide a momentum for the North's denuclearisation if we work more with the international community."

(Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
Death row inmate Taberon Honie leaves for a recess during the Utah Board of Pardons commutation hearing Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at the Utah State Correctional Facility, in Salt Lake City. (Pool photo by Rick Bowmer/AP)

Shortly after midnight on Aug. 8, the state of Utah will execute Taberon Honie, who killed and sexually assaulted his estranged girlfriends mother in 1998.

It was a truly heinous crime, the worst of the worst, the kind that qualifies for the death penalty under the laws of many states, including Utah.

The local media coverage has been standard: Honies daughter asked that his sentence be commuted, because she relied on her father for support, suggesting that the man she knew was no longer the same as the man who killed her grandmother 25 year earlier. But never mind that.

The victims nieces and nephews asked for justice instead.

He deserves an eye for an eye, one told the Associated Press.

Ive been waiting for this day for a while now, because I deserve my aunt getting the justice that she needed, another said. Its like a chapter ended, like my aunt is resting good now.

Yet another, a reporter assumed, could finally focus on healing.

I hope so, but I doubt it.

Ive covered capital murder cases and executions for more than 20 years, mostly as a reporter in Arizona. I am not theoretically opposed to the death penalty. There have been cases Ive covered where I felt it was justified and should be carried out quickly. But given the random imposition of the death penalty, the cost in trying it, the numbers of exonerations, the difficulties in actually carrying it out, it is totally impractical.

And closure? I dont believe there is ever closure.

Ive witnessed five executions, and Ive heard the same things with every case:

What about justice? What about the victims? What about closure?

Sometimes the questions come from family members; more frequently from politicians who get elected because they are tough on crime.

On June 5, it was Arizonas Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, talking on Facebook about an unprecedented and probably illegal bid to bypass the Arizona Generals authority to seek a death warrant for Aaron Gunches. Gunches killed a man in 2002, and after 20 years on death row, he asked that his execution be carried out because he was tired of being in prison. Mitchell wanted to make it happen, even if it was not within her jurisdiction to do so.

Ted Prices [the victim] family and friends have waited for nearly two decades to see justice and find closure, she said. Ted Prices family has waited long enough.

Earlier this year, a Washington Post story about a Missouri murderer said:

Gov. Michael Parson (R) has denied the last-minute attempt to stay the execution of Brian Dorsey, a 52-year-old man convicted in the December 2006 double-murder of his cousin and her husband.

The pain Dorsey brought to others can never be rectified, but carrying out Dorseys sentence according to Missouri law and the Courts order will deliver justice and provide closure, Parson said in a news release.

And on a Salt Lake City TV newscast about the same time, the middle-aged son of a woman whose killer has been on death row for decades talked about how many years he had lived with the thought that his mother was murdered and the killer has so far not been punished.

Theres no closure, he said.

Thats right. They were all fooling themselves. Executions dont bring closure. There is no closure. There is only vengeance.

I recall a case where two teens were having a tug-of-war with a shotgun in a leather case, and it went off and killed one of them. The surviving kid was convicted of manslaughter, whose definition is, basically: You should have realized that your reckless behavior could cause death or injury. The father of the boy who was killed asked the judge to impose the death penalty. Of course, the law wouldnt allow that as a punishment for manslaughter. He wanted closure, and closure somehow means death.

Never mind that life in prison may be the worse punishment. Robert Comer, who killed a man at an Arizona campground in 1987, like Gunches, asked to speed up his execution. And so did Dale Hausner, an Arizona serial killer found guilty of six murders from 2005 and 2006.

In those two cases, authorities ordered hearings and examinations to prove that Comer and Hausner were of sound mind. Catch 22: Its unconstitutional to execute a mentally ill person, and if you so badly want to die, you might be mentally ill.

Comer found an attorney to argue his case and was finally executed in 2007. Hausner was not so lucky. His case dragged on, and he even sent me a letter from prison that ended with the plea, I mean really, whats a guy got to do to get snuffed out? He got tired of waiting and died by suicide.

But lets say the execution takes place. What then?

Richard Stokley was one of two men who raped and killed two 13-year-old girls in southern Arizona. The instigator of the crime, the smarter of the two, pleaded out fast and got 20 years. Stokley went to the death house.

When I first interviewed her, the mother of one of the girls impressed me with her demeanor. She was logical. She spoke calmly about her daughter and the killer and the upcoming execution.

But as the execution grew closer, her facade began to crack. And by the time Stokley was dead, she was beside herself. No closure there. The anticipation had just made the pain worse.

The other killer, by the way, had been out of prison for years. When I reached him on the phone, he said he couldnt care less about his former co-defendant.

Dan Cook was also sold out by his partner in crime. They worked in a restaurant in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, and one day in 1987, they robbed a third fellow roommate, then sexually abused and tortured him before killing him. When a fourth coworker, a teenager, stopped by, they showed him the body  before they killed him too.

I witnessed Cooks execution. He whimpered and sobbed as the warden read the death warrant. They shut off his microphone several times as he blubbered out his last words. His message was incoherent anyway.

After the execution was over, two brothers and a sister of the younger victim addressed the media. One brother angrily talked about justice served. The sister said pretty much the same thing. The killer was dead, and it was good and just. The other brother stood by quietly. The sister asked him what he had to say.

I saw a man who died alone, he said.

The brother and sister stormed angrily out of the room.

The Joe Wood execution in Arizona in 2014, which I also witnessed, took nearly two hours. Afterward, the sister/daughter of the two victims and her husband protested that reporters, including me, had called the execution botched.

The husband asked why they couldnt have just shot him, or killed him with Drano. Two hours of gasping, choking suffocation was not closure enough.

Sometimes there is acceptance.

There was a teenager sent away for life for shooting two other teens at a Subway restaurant in Phoenix in 2005. He went to the same school as the kids he killed. And when he arrived at his first court appearance after being arrested for the murders, he had already tattooed two tear drops beneath one eye to signify that he had killed two people. Talk about a defense attorneys nightmare!

After the sentencing, there was a press conference outside the courthouse. I dont remember who was speaking, because I was watching the scene unfolding behind the speaker: The mother of one of the dead boys was embracing the mother of the killer.

I walked over afterward and asked her why she had done that.

She lost a son, too, she said.

That woman and her husband went on to establish a Spanish-language chapter of Parents of Murdered Children so that they could help others.

I dont know if thats closure, but it may be as close as you get.
Experts sound the alarm as bald eagle populations face toxic threat: 'We are concerned'

Since 1782, the bald eagle has upheld its reign as the de facto American national bird, representing vigor, freedom, and triumph (though the official designation of its symbolic status is only being enacted this summer).

The majestic bird has also known its fair share of trials. For example, widespread usage of the pesticide DDT drove it to endangerment (and near-extinction) about 60 years ago.

Now, the bald eagle faces another threat: lead poisoning from accidental consumption of recreational hunting ammunition, reported the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

What's happening?

Lead poisoning is dangerous for all. "There is no level of exposure to lead that is known to be without harmful effects," wrote the World Health Organization.

For young children, it can create severe, permanent, and sometimes fatal impairments in the nervous system. Adults exposed to lead, the WHO added, may develop high blood pressure, kidney damage, or heart problems among other health concerns.

Animals are affected, too. The Post-Gazette spoke with Carol Holmgren, the executive director of a Pennsylvania wildlife rehabilitation center.

The bald eagle is particularly susceptible to lead poisoning, Holmgren detailed, due to its digestive system makeup. Once eagles consume lead, it "is metabolized  and sent to the bloodstream and organs," making it harder to reverse course with treatment.

A recent study, published in the journal Science, shows an almost 4% suppression of North American population growth for bald eagles due to lead poisoning, the Post-Gazette explained. Holmgren put it simply: "[We] have environmental issues going on and we are concerned."

Why is the bald eagle important?

The bald eagle's rally from the brink of eradication to a population boom is a historic victory. But what goes up can come down, experts fear.

Lead poisoning deaths make the bird's population more vulnerable to additional perils such as illness, drought, heat, and habitat disruptions.

"The concern is continued population resilience," commented wildlife disease ecologist and Cornell University Wildlife Health Lab director Krysten Schuler to the Post-Gazette.

The entire local ecosystem reacts to a species' decline, leading to troubling outcomes like economic damage, disease spread, water contamination, and food insecurity.

What's being done about lead ammunition poisoning?

Lead is "a preventable source of eagle mortality," remarked Schuler in the Post-Gazette. Hunters in the region have been advised to properly conceal animal remains below ground and to select non-lead ammunition.

One hunter, Hank Forester, provided his account of copper ammunition usage to the National Deer Association, noting that most hunters' lesser perceptions of the lead alternative relate to much older models and have been resolved in modern copper bullets.

Forester advised other hunters to seek education on the ripple effect of standard practices. "You're responsible for that bullet and its impact  down the food chain," he wrote. "That's why I choose non-lead where I can."

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Explainer-Why are there riots in the UK and who is behind them?

LONDON (Reuters) - Riots have erupted at anti-immigration protests in towns and cities across Britain in the last week, with attacks by far-right groups on hotels housing asylum seekers and on mosques.

Here is the background to the disorder and what has caused it:

WHY DID THE PROTESTS BEGIN?

On July 29, three girls aged between six and nine were killed during an attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event for children in the seaside town of Southport, in northern England.

Eight other children and two adults were hurt.

Police arrested a 17-year-old male and false information circulated on social media that the suspect was an Islamist migrant, which led to violent anti-Muslim protests in Southport the following day and an attempt to attack the town's mosque.

The teenager has since been charged with murder and attempted murder. Police said he was born in Britain and have not treated the attack as terrorism.

WHERE HAVE THERE BEEN RIOTS?

The day after the Southport trouble, several thousand people gathered near Starmer's Downing Street office in central London and more than 100 arrests were made following clashes with police.

There have since been riots in more than 20 places across Britain, from Sunderland in northeast England and Manchester in the northwest, to Plymouth in the southwest and Belfast in Northern Ireland.

Most of the protests have involved a few hundred people targeting migrants or Muslims, with police vehicles set alight and bricks, bottles and other missiles thrown at mosques and police officers. Shops, including Asian-owned businesses, have been vandalised or looted.

In Rotherham, in northern England, a hotel that held migrants was attacked, with windows smashed and a large garbage container set ablaze outside.

Around 400 people have been arrested since the disturbances started, police chiefs say, and more than 120 people have been charged in connection with the riots.

WHO IS BEHIND THE RIOTS?

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said the violence was the result of "far-right thuggery".

High profile anti-immigration and anti-Muslim activists such as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, have promoted the protests online and have been accused by politicians and the media of peddling misinformation to inflame tensions. Robinson has accused the media of lying about him.

Social media firms have been accused by the government of not doing enough to stop the spread of disinformation, while the Institute of Strategic Dialogue think-tank said the companies' own algorithms had played a significant role in amplifying false messages.

Police said those involved in the clashes were mainly far-right agitators from outside their local communities, but that in some cases they had been joined by people with local grievances or young people seeking to join in the disorder.

There have also been large groups of counter protesters, anti-fascist groups and Asian men gathering in some areas where protests have taken place or were expected.

WHY ARE PEOPLE PROTESTING?

Many of those involved describe themselves as patriots who say that record levels of illegal and legal immigration are undermining British society.

Some far-right activists argue online that immigration has fuelled violence and crime, including assaults on women and girls, and that migrants have been housed and treated favourably by politicians. Rights groups say that is simply not true.

Some on the right also accuse the police of treating "patriotic" protesters more severely than they do people involved in, say, recent pro-Palestine marches or Black Lives Matters demonstrations in 2020.

The government and the police have rejected the characterisation of British policing, with Mark Rowley, the UK's most senior officer, calling it nonsense.

Anti-racist groups say looting of shops and attacks on police and mosques betray the true motive of those behind the violence that has broken out at many of the protests, adding that patriotism was being used as a veneer for extremism.

In a YouGov poll published on Tuesday, three-quarters of respondents said the rioters did not represent the views of Britain as a whole, with 7% saying they supported the violence.

WHAT IS THE UK GOVERNMENT DOING?

To quell the disorder, Starmer has said rioters will face the full force of the law.

Nearly 600 additional prison places are being made available and specialist officers are being drafted in.

A 58-year-old British man was jailed for three years for violent disorder at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday in one of the first sentences to be handed down over the rioting.

The government has also vowed to go after not just the rioters, but those who used social media to spread the trouble. One man has been charged with using threatening words or behaviour intending to stir up racial hatred over Facebook posts.

Britain's science minister Peter Kyle has met representatives from TikTok, Meta, Google and X to enforce the message that they had a responsibility for helping to stop incitement and the spread of false information.

(Reporting by Michael Holden; Editing by Alex Richardson)
This article was originally published in The 19th.

Angela Girol has been teaching fourth grade in Pittsburgh for over two decades. Over the years shes noticed a change at her school: Its getting hotter.

Some days temperatures reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit in her classroom which, like many on the East Coast, isnt air-conditioned. When its hot, she said, kids dont eat, or drink enough water. They end up in the nurses office because theyre dizzy, they have a headache, their stomach hurts  all because of heat and dehydration, she said.

To cope with the heat, her students are now allowed to keep water on their desks, but that presents its own challenges. Theyre constantly filling up water bottles, so I have to give them breaks during the day for that. And then everyone has to go to the bathroom all the time, she said. Im losing instruction time.

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The effect extreme heat is having on schools and child care is starting to get the attention of policymakers and researchers. Last week, the Center for American Progress, a left-leaning think tank, published a report on the issue. In April, so did the Federation of American Scientists, a nonprofit policy organization.

The average school building in the U.S. was built nearly 50 years ago, said policy analyst Allie Schneider, co-author of the Center for American Progress report. Schools and child care centers were built in areas that maybe 30 or 15 years ago didnt require access to air-conditioning, or at least for a good portion of the year. Now were seeing that becoming a more pressing concern. Students are also on campus during the hottest parts of the day. Its something that is really important not just to their physical health, but their learning outcomes, she said.

Last April, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its own report detailing some of the effects heat has on kids. It notes that children have a harder time thermo-regulating and take longer to produce sweat, making them more vulnerable than adults to heat exhaustion and heat illness.

Kids dont necessarily listen to their bodys cues about heat, and might need an adult to remind them to drink water or not play outside. Kevin Toolan, a sixth-grade teacher in Long Island, New York, said having to constantly monitor heat safety distracts him from being able to teach. The mindset is shifting to safety rather than instruction, he said. Those children dont know how to handle it.

To keep the classroom cool, hell turn the lights off, but kids fall asleep. They are lethargic, he said.

To protect kids, schools have canceled classes because temperatures have gotten too high. Warmer temperatures also lead to more kids being absent from school, especially low-income students. And heat makes it harder to learn. One study from 2020 tracked the scores of students from schools without air-conditioning who took the PSAT exam at least twice. It found that increases in the average outdoor temperature corresponded with students making smaller gains on their retakes.

Both Toolan and Girol said that cooling options like keeping doors and windows open to promote cross ventilation are gone, thanks to the clampdowns in school security after 9/11  and worsened by the threat of school shootings. Students and teachers are trapped in their overheating classrooms. Teachers report leaving with migraines or signs of heat exhaustion, said Toolan. At 100 degrees, it is very uncomfortable. Your clothes are stuck to you.

The Center for American Progress report joins a call by other advocacy groups to create federal guidance that schools and child care centers could adopt to ensure that children are not forced to learn, play and exercise in dangerously hot conditions, Schneider said. Some states already have standards in place, but they vary. In California, child care facilities are required to keep temperatures between 68 and 85 degrees. In Maryland, the recommendation is between 74 and 82 degrees. A few states, like Florida, require schools to reduce outdoor activity on high-heat days. Schneider says federal guidance would help all school districts use the latest scientific evidence to set protective standards.

In June, 23 health and education advocacy organizations signed a letter making a similar request of the Department of Education, asking for better guidance and coordination to protect kids. Some of their recommendations included publishing a plan that schools could adopt for dealing with high temperatures; encouraging states to direct more resources to providing air-conditioning in schools; and providing school districts with information on heat hazards.

We know that school infrastructure is being overwhelmed by extreme heat, and that without a better system to advise schools on the types of practices they should be implementing, its going to be a little bit of the Wild West of actions being taken, said Grace Wickerson, health equity policy manager at the Federation of American Scientists.

A longer term solution is upgrading school infrastructure but the need for air conditioning is overwhelming. According to the Center for American Progress report, 36,000 schools nationwide dont have adequate HVAC systems. By 2025, it estimates that installing or upgrading HVAC or other cooling systems will cost around $4.4 billion.

Some state or local governments are trying to address the heat issue. In June, the New York State Legislature passed a bill now awaiting the governors signature that would require school staff to take measures like closing blinds or turning off lights when temperatures reach 82 degrees inside a classroom. At 88 degrees, classes would be canceled. A bill introduced last year and currently before Californias state assembly would require schools to create extreme heat action plans that could include mandating hydration and rest breaks or moving recess to cooler parts of the day.

Some teachers have been galvanized to take action, too. As president of the Patchogue-Medford Congress of Teachers, Toolan was part of an effort to secure $80 million for infrastructure upgrades through a bond vote. Over half will go to HVAC systems for some 500 classrooms in his district.

And Girol is running for a state representative seat in Pennsylvania, where a main plank in her platform is to fully fund public schools in order to pay for things like air-conditioning. She was recently endorsed by the Climate Cabinet, a federal political action committee. Part of the reason climate is so important to me is because of this issue, she said. I see how its negatively affecting my students.

Originally published by The 19th
BERLIN (AP)  Two suspected extremists were arrested in Austria on Wednesday, one of whom appeared to be planning an attack on an event in the Vienna area such as upcoming Taylor Swift concerts, authorities said.

The 19-year-old main suspect was arrested in Ternitz, south of Vienna, and the second person in the Austrian capital.

Organizers of three Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna this week called them off on Wednesday after officials announced arrests over an apparent plot to launch an attack on an event in the Vienna area such as the concerts.

Franz Ruf, the public security director at Austrias interior ministry, said that authorities were aware of preparatory actions for a possible attack and also that there is a focus by the 19-year-old perpetrator on the Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, the Austria Press Agency reported.

Ruf said the 19-year-old had pledged an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State group.

The Austrian citizen is believed to have become radicalized on the internet. Ruf said that chemical substances were secured and were being evaluated. He didnt give more details.

Vienna police chief Gerhard Purstl said that, while any concrete danger had been minimized, an abstract risk justified raising security.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. (WBTW)  South Carolinas damage from Tropical Storm Debby has so far been minimal, but a second landfall later this week is expected to hit hard in flood-prone parts of the Pee Dee region, Gov. Henry McMaster said Wednesday.

Weve been lucky so far. Things have not been as bad as they couldve been, although weve had a lot of rain and its not nearly over, he said during storm briefing at the states emergency operations center. Were not nearly out of the woods yet.

As of 2 p.m. Wednesday, Debby was sitting about 55 miles off the Charleston coast, and is likely to touch down again tomorrow near Georgetown County.

The slow-moving system was traveling slowly, with sustained winds of up to 60 mph, dumping nearly another foot of rain across much of northern South Carolina.

Of particular concern for major flooding is the Little Pee Dee River near Galivants Ferry, National Weather Service meteorologist John Quagriaiello said Wednesday.

Flooding threats are likely to continue through the middle of next week as rivers begin to crest.

Meanwhile, Debby has damaged 64 homes in the Lowcountry and at least one Horry County business has sustained some type of damage, according to preliminary reports starting to come in, state Department of Emergency Management head Kim Stenson said.

FEMA aid is also in place if needed after President Biden this week approved a disaster declaration request.

The impacts (of Debby) did not make it up to what the forecast was so far, but theres a lot of damage out there, and the second act is about to occur, said regional FEMA coordinator Brett Howard.

FEMA, the state National Guard and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division assets are being redeployed to the northern Grand Strand and Pee Dee areas over the next 24 hours and Debbys track becomes more certain, officials from those agencies said.

McMaster said lingering impacts of Debby will remain even after the rains clear out, keeping state officials on alert for the next several weeks.

After the rains are gone and when the sun comes out, were still going to have a lot of puddles, a lot of things in small towns, he said. All that water that has not yet finished coming through, we may have some of that before the rains end, but we certainly will have more of that after.

* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Claim:

Gov. Tim Walz changed the state flag of Minnesota to closely resemble the national flag of Somalia.

Rating:

Rating: False

Context:

Minnesota is home to the largest number of Somali Americans in the country, but any similarities between the new flag and the Somali flag are pure coincidence.

On Aug. 6, 2024, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris announced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate in the 2024 presidential election. As conservative pundits on X raced to critique Walz's political record, one such criticism focused around a rather surprising topic: Minnesota's state flag.

According to some posts, Walz changed the design of the Minnesota state flag in 2024 to one closely resembling the national flag of Somalia, implying that he had turned Minnesota into some kind of "New Somalia" and would do the same to the nation if elected.

On the left is Somalia's flag. On the right is Minnesota's new state flag that Tim Walz revealed in January.



He turned his home state into Somalia and now he wants to do the same to our country. pic.twitter.com/Qflvk7Jehl  Andrew Torba (@BasedTorba) August 6, 2024

These claims are demonstrably false  Walz did not change the state flag of Minnesota to resemble that of Somalia. Here's what actually happened:

Minnesota's old flag centered the state's seal, which featured a white settler tilling land and an Indigenous man on horseback, on a blue background. Indigenous Minnesotans, including Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, said the seal and the state flag were insulting to their heritage and attempted to erase the historical record of settler-inflicted violence against Native American groups. Meanwhile, others noted that the old flag broke several principles of "good flag design" as published by the North American Vexillological Association.

So, in 2023, the Minnesota Legislature created a commission to redesign the state flag and seal. According to Minnesota Public Radio, it took 10 attempts in the Legislature to pass a bill calling for a new flag and a new seal. Walz signed that bill into law, but that was the only part he played in creating the new flag.

The commission received more than 2,500 redesign proposals, both serious and unserious, before choosing its top six designs, then whittling the number down to three, before finally selecting a base design created by Andrew Prekker.

Prekker's design featured a three horizontal stripes of white, green and light blue, with a navy blue stylized outline of Minnesota's shape on the left side of the flag and an eight-pointed star  a nod to the state's motto, "L'etoile du Nord," French for "The Star of the North"  centered in the outline.

The commission modified Prekker's design slightly by simplifying the star and removing the horizontal stripes in favor of a field entirely of light blue, representing the water of the so-called "Land of 10,000 Lakes" and the headwaters of the Mississippi River. The commission released a comprehensive report on the design that is publicly available, and the new flag was officially flown for the first time on May 11, 2024.

So where does Somalia play into this? Minnesota is home to more than 60,000 Somali Americans, the largest such community in the nation. And indeed, both flags feature a star and a light blue field. But looking at both flags side by side reveals that they're not very similar.

(Wikimedia Commons)

(Wikimedia Commons)

Somalia's flag features a white, five-pointed star (representing the five Somali homelands) in the center of a light blue background (inspired by the United Nations, which helped Somalia gain independence), while Minnesota's uses an eight-pointed star specifically over the simplified state outline, which is in navy blue.

Sure, we admit there are similarities. But the resemblance is purely a coincidence, according to the commission's explanation of the symbols on the flag. The Dispatch, an online publication that openly describes itself as conservative, spoke with a representative from the Minnesota Historical Society, who confirmed that the similarities were coincidental:

The new Minnesota flag was not designed based on the Somali flag. The designer who submitted the design concept, who is from Luverne, Minnesota, cited many symbols and references of Minnesota as his design inspiration. The Commission further refined the design to represent important features of Minnesota including the North Star, the shape of the State of Minnesota, and blue representing the waters of Minnesota.

Finally, it's not uncommon for flags to look alike  sometimes much moreso than those of Minnesota and Somalia: Romania and Chad both use a tricolor design of vertical blue, yellow and red bars, while Indonesia and Monaco's flags both are horizontal stripes of red on top of white, for example.

Sources:

Bettin, Anthony, and WCCO Staff. Minnesota Changed Its State Flag. But Why? - CBS Minnesota. 13 May 2024, https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/new-flag-minnesota-explanation-history/.

Demas, Alex. "Does Minnesota's New State Flag Resemble That of an Autonomous Somali State?" The Dispatch, 21 Dec. 2023, https://thedispatch.com/article/does-minnesotas-new-state-flag-resemble-that-of-an-autonomous-somali-state/.

Derwin, Jack. "Elon Musk Just Discovered That Chad and Romania Have Almost Identical Flags  but They're Not the Only Lookalikes." Business Insider, https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musks-tweet-shows-chad-and-romania-have-identical-flags-2019-9. Accessed 6 Aug. 2024.

Epstein, Reid J., et al. "Tim Walz Is Kamala Harris's Choice for Vice President." The New York Times, 6 Aug. 2024. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/06/us/politics/kamala-harris-vp.html.

Flag of Minnesota | Meaning, Colors, & History | Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/flag-of-Minnesota. Accessed 6 Aug. 2024.

Flag of Somalia | Meaning, Colors & Symbolism | Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/flag-of-Somalia. Accessed 6 Aug. 2024.

"Let It Wave: Minnesota's New Flag Takes Flight." MPR News, 11 May 2024, https://www.mprnews.org/story/2024/05/11/new-minnesota-state-flag-debuts-state-capitol.

Minnesota Secretary Of State - State Flag. https://www.sos.state.mn.us/about-minnesota/state-symbols/state-flag/. Accessed 6 Aug. 2024.

Somali Population by State 2024. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/somali-population-by-state. Accessed 6 Aug. 2024.

The New Official Flag and Great Seal. Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission, 1 Jan. 2024, https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/5892/2023-state-emblem-redesign-commission-report.pdf.

What Is The History Behind Minnesota's Somali-American Community? - CBS Minnesota. 23 July 2019, https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/minnesota-somali-american-population-good-question/.

"What to Know about Minnesota's New State Flag and Seal." PBS News, 3 Jan. 2024, https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/what-to-know-about-minnesotas-new-state-flag-and-seal.


Fact Check: It's True Trump Once Said He Would Date Ivanka If She Wasn't His Daughter

Claim:

In 2006, former U.S. President Donald Trump said, Ive said if Ivanka werent my daughter, perhaps Id be dating her.

Rating:

Rating: Correct Attribution

Context:

Donald Trump made the comment during an appearance with Ivanka Trump on "The View." He and Ivanka were smiling and laughing when he said it. Shortly after the clip aired, Donald Trump's spokesperson told journalists he was joking and "making fun of himself for his tendency to date younger women."

Ahead of the 2024 presidential election, a number of old comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump resurfaced, including one in which he allegedly said, "If Ivanka weren't my daughter, perhaps I'd be dating her."

Flashback



Donald Trump: If Ivanka werent my daughter, perhaps Id be dating her



TV host: Stop it. It's so weird. #TrumpIsWeird #TBT pic.twitter.com/JOXOCp27Cp  Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) August 2, 2024

It was true that Trump made the remark during a 2006 appearance on "The View" talk show. Alleged video footage of the moment  a clip that shows 60-year-old Trump and 24-year-old Ivanka Trump sitting between hosts of "The View"  is authentic and appropriately captioned in social media posts.

In the clip, Donald and Ivanka Trump smiled and laughed as he said, "If Ivanka weren't my daughter, perhaps I'd be dating her." Shortly after the clip aired, Donald Trump's spokesperson told journalists he was joking and "making fun of himself for his tendency to date younger women."

Critics of the former president shared the clip in summer 2024, after Vice President Kamala Harris announced her presidential bid. She and her allies made it part of her campaign to criticize Donald Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, with one word  "weird". And, in the 2006 clip, a co-host on "The View" called him "weird" for making the in-question comment.

We analyzed footage via CNN and a longer YouTube clip. (When we asked ABC for a copy of the video from its archives, the network referred us to YouTube.) According to those sources, the interaction went like this:

'The View' co-host Star Jones: I'm afraid to ask this question, but what would you do if Playboy put Ivanka on the cover of the magazine. Ivanka Trump: This is going to be an interesting answer. Trump: It would be really disappointing  not really  but it would depend on what was inside the magazine. [...] 'The View' co-host Joy Behar: That's this girl's right, people assume there will be n*de photos. Trump: Right, you do assume [...] 'The View' co-host Meredith Vieira: But if there weren't you wouldn't have an issue with it? Trump: I don't think Ivanka would do that inside the magazine, although she does have a very nice figure. I've said that if Ivanka weren't my daughter, perhaps I'd be dating her. [LAUGHTER] Unidentified host [off-screen]: Stop it. That's so weird. [CROSSTALK] Unidentified host (off-screen): You know what, you are sick. Behar: Stop it. [CROSSTALK] Trump: Is that terrible? Vieira: You're known for saying outrageous things, Mr. Trump. Behar: Who are you, Woody Allen?

Behar was referencing the famed director who controversially married Soon-Yi Previn, the daughter of his ex-partner Mia Farrow. Also, Allen was accused of sexual abuse by his adopted daughter Dylan Farrow in 1992.

The moment on "The View" happens at the 20-second mark of the CNN clip:

That said, in addition to the CNN footage, news reports from 2006 and "The View" co-host Joe Behar's recollection of the interview with the Trumps confirmed the claim's truth.

News reports from 2006 corroborated the transcription above  that is, that the former president made the comment about his daughter in response to a hypothetical question about her posing for Playboy magazine.

After the interview aired, a spokesperson for Donald Trump at the time, Jim Dowd, told The Associated Press he "was absolutely joking" with the comment about his daughter. "He was making fun of himself for his tendency to date younger women. It's a sense of humor that people don't see [from him] all the time."

Years later, in 2017, Behar recalled the moment with the Trumps during an appearance on "Late Night With Seth Meyers." She said Trump sometimes hated her, sometimes liked her, and, at least at the time of the 2017 interview, she was on his "bad list." Behar then said, "He came on ['The View' for the] first time with Ivanka. [...] He said, 'If she wasn't my daughter, you know, I'd date her. [...] And I said to him, 'Who are you, Woody Allen?'"

Behar added, "He laughed at that actually. He thought that was quite amusing."

Donald Trump's critics circulated the 2006 comment about Ivanka before 2024. We previously confirmed its legitimacy and noted his spokesperson's subsequent clarification about him supposedly "making fun of himself."

Also, we have addressed the unproven claim that Donald Trump once asked, "Is it wrong to be more sexually attracted to your own daughter than your wife?"

Sources:

"Donald Trump's Comments about Daughter Raise Eyebrows." CNN, 2016. YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsOVVqubBus." target="blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsOVVqubBus.">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsOVVqubBus. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

Evon, Dan. "Did Donald Trump Say He'd Like to Date His Daughter?" Snopes, 10 July 2015, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/donald-trump-date-daughter/." target="blank">https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/donald-trump-date-daughter/.">https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/donald-trump-date-daughter/. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

Ibrahim, Nur. "Elon Musk Said X Users Who Use 'Weird' to Describe Trump Supporters 'Will Be Punished'?" Snopes, 31 July 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/elon-musk-x-weird-trump-punished/." target="blank">https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/elon-musk-x-weird-trump-punished/.">https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/elon-musk-x-weird-trump-punished/. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

"Late Night With Seth Meyers : KNTV : June 28, 2017 12:37am-1:38am PDT." 28 June 2017. Internet Archive, http://archive.org/details/KNTV_20170628_073700_Late_Night_With_Seth_Meyers." target="blank">http://archive.org/details/KNTV_20170628_073700_Late_Night_With_Seth_Meyers.">http://archive.org/details/KNTV_20170628_073700_Late_Night_With_Seth_Meyers. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

Liles, Jordan. "No Evidence Trump Once Asked If It's Wrong To Be More Attracted to Daughter Than Wife." Snopes, 18 July 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/trump-ivanka-attraction-remark/." target="blank">https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/trump-ivanka-attraction-remark/.">https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/trump-ivanka-attraction-remark/. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

"Trump: I'd Date My Daughter." Chicago Tribune, 8 Mar. 2006, https://www.chicagotribune.com/2006/03/08/trump-id-date-my-daughter/. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

"Trump Jokes That He'd Date Daughter." TODAY.Com, 7 Mar. 2006, https://www.today.com/popculture/trump-jokes-he-d-date-daughter-wbna11714379." target="blank">https://www.today.com/popculture/trump-jokes-he-d-date-daughter-wbna11714379.">https://www.today.com/popculture/trump-jokes-he-d-date-daughter-wbna11714379. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.

"Who Is Woody Allen's Wife, Soon-Yi Previn? What to Know About Their Controversial Relationship." Peoplemag, https://people.com/who-is-soon-yi-previn-woody-allen-wife-8639813. Accessed 2 Aug. 2024.


Paul-Henri Nargeolet was one of five people onboard the submersible in June 2023 when it imploded while traveling through the Atlantic Ocean

JOEL SAGET/AFP via Getty Images Paul-Henri Nargeolet, one of five people who were killed when the 'Titan' submersible imploded in June 2023

The family of Paul-Henri Nargeolet, also known as Mr. Titanic, has filed a $50 million wrongful death lawsuit against OceanGate and others more than a year after the "Titan" submersible implosion killed five people, including the famed underwater explorer.

The lawsuit, filed in Washington States King County on Tuesday, Aug. 6, accuses OceanGate and the other entities of gross negligence in connection with the fatal incident, which occurred on June 18, 2023, according to a news release from lawyers representing the estate.

The explorer was one of five people onboard the submersible when it imploded less than two hours into their journey to visit the Titanic wreckage at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Nargeolet family alleges a troubled history of the doomed submersible and claim OceanGate and its founder Stockton Rush, who was among those killed in the implosion, failed to disclose key facts about the condition and durability of the submersible.

These facts were allegedly kept from the explorer, who had made many trips to visit the wreck of the Titanic on other submersibles prior to his death.

JOEL SAGET/AFP via Getty Images Paul-Henri Nargeolet, the famed explorer who died when the "Titan" submersible imploded in June 2023

The lawsuit alleges someone as experienced and knowledgeable...would not have participated in the dive had they known about the supposed problems with the watercraft, according to a statement from Matt Shaffer, an attorney representing the Nargeolet family.

Tony Buzbee, another attorney representing the Nargeolet family, also noted that the University of Washington and Boeing recently disclaimed any involvement at all in the submersible model that imploded despite having key roles in the design of previous but similar versions of the Titan.

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We are hopeful that through this lawsuit we can get answers for the family as to exactly how this happened, who all were involved, and how those involved could allow this to happen, Buzbee said in his statement.

In addition to the explorer and Rush, three other individuals were onboard the "Titan" when it imploded: billionaires Hamish Harding and Shahzada Dawood, and Dawoods and son Suleman.

Xinhua/Shutterstock The "Titan" submersible created by OceanGate before it imploded in June 2023

Concerns about the submersible were raised as far back as 2018, according to The New Yorker. That January, OceanGate employee David Lochridge completed a report that noted several potentially dangerous flaws, including highly flammable flooring, an iridium satellite beacon secured by zip-ties, and thruster cables that posed snagging hazards.

Rush was reportedly not pleased. Employees who attended an emergency meeting afterward said Rush used the gathering to shoot down Lochridges report.

Days after the Titan imploded in 2023, U.S. Navy Captain Alfred Scott McLaren told PEOPLE that he was not surprised by what happened to the submersible. He said it was "a catastrophe waiting to happen."

Related: I Survived a Near Miss on the Titan Sub: How My Dad and I Averted Family Tragedy (Exclusive)

At the time, he told PEOPLE that for years he had "been advising people under no circumstances go to Titanic on that submersible."

"I didn't consider it safe because of the way it was constructed and the fact that it had not been tested or certified," he added.

A spokesperson for OceanGate declined to comment on the lawsuit, per the Associated Press.



OceanGate, which did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment, has since suspended "all exploration and commercial operations," according to its now-defunct website.

An investigation into the tragedy is still underway.

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Read the original article on People.
Comprehensive SWOT analysis based on Owens-Corning Inc's latest 10-Q filing.

Detailed examination of the company's financial performance and strategic initiatives.

Insight into Owens-Corning Inc's competitive positioning and market dynamics.

Forward-looking perspective on potential challenges and growth prospects.

On August 6, 2024, Owens-Corning Inc (NYSE:OC), a leading manufacturer of glass fiber used in composites and building materials, filed its 10-Q report with the SEC. This SWOT analysis delves into the company's financial health and strategic positioning, drawing insights from the recent financial data and management's discussion in the filing. Owens-Corning Inc operates through three primary segments: Composites, Insulation, and Roofing, with the Roofing segment being the most significant revenue contributor. The company's financial performance in the quarter ending June 30, 2024, shows robust net earnings of $285 million, a slight decrease from $345 million in the same period last year. The acquisition of Masonite International Corporation has expanded the company's portfolio, adding a Doors segment and diversifying its revenue streams. With a focus on sustainable building solutions and innovation, Owens-Corning Inc is poised to leverage its market-leading positions and comprehensive product offerings.

Decoding Owens-Corning Inc (OC): A Strategic SWOT Insight

Strengths

Market Leadership and Brand Recognition: Owens-Corning Inc (NYSE:OC) has established itself as a market leader in the building materials industry, particularly in its Roofing and Insulation segments. The company's brand is synonymous with quality and reliability, which has been reinforced by its strategic acquisition of Masonite, further expanding its product offerings and market reach. This brand equity translates into a competitive advantage, as customers and contractors often prefer established and trusted brands for building materials.

Financial Performance and Strong Balance Sheet: The company's financial health is evident from its solid net earnings and cash flow generation. Despite a slight decrease in net earnings compared to the previous year, Owens-Corning Inc maintains a strong balance sheet with significant cash reserves. The company's ability to generate cash from operations, amounting to $517 million in the first half of 2024, demonstrates its operational efficiency and financial stability.

Weaknesses

Dependence on the U.S. Market: While Owens-Corning Inc has a global presence, it still generates the majority of its revenue from the United States. This geographic concentration could expose the company to regional economic downturns or changes in the U.S. housing market. Diversifying its geographic footprint could help mitigate this risk and ensure more stable revenue streams.

Story continues

Environmental and Regulatory Challenges: The company faces environmental remediation responsibilities and regulatory compliance costs, which can be significant. As of June 30, 2024, Owens-Corning Inc is involved with 22 sites worldwide that require environmental remediation. These obligations not only impact the company's financials but also pose a reputational risk if not managed effectively.

Opportunities

Expansion into New Markets: The acquisition of Masonite presents an opportunity for Owens-Corning Inc to penetrate new markets and segments, such as the interior and exterior doors market. This expansion can lead to increased market share and revenue diversification, reducing the company's reliance on its traditional product lines.

Innovation and Sustainable Solutions: Owens-Corning Inc's commitment to sustainability aligns with global trends favoring eco-friendly and energy-efficient building materials. By continuing to innovate and develop sustainable products, the company can capitalize on the growing demand for green construction solutions and reinforce its market leadership.

Threats

Competitive Pressure and Market Dynamics: The building materials industry is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. Owens-Corning Inc must continuously innovate and maintain cost competitiveness to stay ahead. Additionally, fluctuations in raw material costs and supply chain disruptions can impact profitability and operational efficiency.

Economic and Industry Cycles: The company's performance is closely tied to the health of the construction industry, which is cyclical in nature. Economic downturns or slowdowns in construction activity can significantly affect Owens-Corning Inc's revenue and growth prospects. Moreover, the company's strategic review of its global glass reinforcements business indicates a potential shift in focus, which could bring both opportunities and uncertainties.

In conclusion, Owens-Corning Inc (NYSE:OC) exhibits a strong market position with a well-recognized brand and robust financials. However, it must navigate geographic concentration risks, environmental challenges, and intense competition. The company's recent acquisition and focus on sustainability present significant opportunities for growth, but it must also be vigilant of the cyclical nature of the industry and market dynamics. Overall, Owens-Corning Inc's strategic initiatives and forward-looking approach position it well to capitalize on emerging trends and maintain its leadership in the building materials sector.

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.


LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY)  Only days after filing a state-level lawsuit against the City of Lafayette and its police department, the parents of Kaci Cyprian, a 19-month-old girl who was killed in the crossfire of a shootout last August, has filed a second suit. This time in federal court.

Jowanna Washington and Trenton Cyprian lodged their newest action Monday in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, saying they want a federal jury to hear their case.

The lawsuits stem from an incident that occurred in early August 2023, which resulted in an exchange of gunfire between police officers and a person at the home, according to previous reports.

John Mitchell Nicholas was indicted by a grand jury in November. He faces charges including second-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, domestic battery and fire-arm related charges.

Echoing the state-level action filed on Aug. 1, the parents assert allegations of excessive force, wrongful death and negligence against the Lafayette Police Department in the new lawsuit.

Family sues LPD, LCG, 3 officers over wrongful use of force in death of Kaci Cyprian

In the federal lawsuit, the family claims the actions of the police department were motivated by racial discrimination, and that the police department has refused to release body camera footage from the incident, among other things.

The family told the federal court that the actions of the defendants may constitute criminal conduct under both federal and Louisiana state law, and urged the court to refer the matter to the appropriate authorities for investigation and potential criminal charges.

The federal lawsuit names The Lafayette Police Department, City of Lafayette, Lafayette Consolidated Government, former Lafayette Police Chief Judith Estorge and three officers who were involved in the shooting.

Washington and Cyprian filed the lawsuits on their own. The family has set up a GoFundMe account to raise money in the hopes of getting a new attorney.

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PORT ST. LUCIE  As Port St. Lucie Police continue investigating a hit-and-run crash last week that left Gardy Petit-Frere dead, Petit-Freres family remembered him as a gentle, hard worker and said they need justice.

Police about 11:15 p.m. Aug. 2 went to Southwest Airoso Boulevard and Southwest Todd Avenue, and determined Petit-Frere had been on a moped traveling south, said Sgt. Dominick Mesiti, police spokesperson. Petit-Frere, 37, was struck by a southbound vehicle that left the scene, police said.

Gardy Petit-Frere

Petit-Frere, who was not wearing a helmet, was taken to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce where he died.

He just like to go to work everyday, said Petit-Freres sister, Simone Auguste, 52, in an interview this week at a home in Port St. Lucie. To see somebody take his life like that  there is no word for that.

Mesiti said a witness gave police a photo of a possible suspect vehicle, and investigators were able to track it to an address about eight blocks from the crash scene. Investigators are working to determine who was driving at the time of the crash, and Mesiti said Wednesday the case remains under investigation.

Auguste said Petit-Frere had been at a friends house and was on his way to work at Fed-Ex at the time. He also worked with Amazon, family members said.

He is a very hard worker, Auguste said. He work in the morning. He work at night.

Auguste said there are a total of eight siblings  three sisters and five brothers  with Petit-Frere being the youngest.

Petit-Frere, who would have had a birthday Monday, is married, and his wife and child are in Haiti. He came here in May 2023, family said.

Auguste said when Petit-Frere wasnt working, he enjoyed being at home and reading his Bible. He was loved by his co-workers, who came by asking about him and learned of his death.

I need justice. That's what we need. Justice for our brother, Auguste said. We need people to focus on that.

Auguste said they cannot focus because they are trying to prepare to bury him.

Even my brothers I have in Haiti they cannot even talk because he's the family baby, Auguste said. Hes the youngest one.

Death investigated in Port St. Lucie: 34-year-old man found dead on residential sidewalk

Antisemitic literature in Martin County: Sheriff's officials investigate after antisemitic materials found

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: 'I need justice;' family remembers man dead after hit-and-run in PSL
Kevin Morales, an undocumented worker, plummeted to his death in 2015 in Orange County. It was the type of accident that warranted investigation.

And Cal-OSHA did investigate. A 2017 report concluded that Morales did not have proper fall protection and was provided an inadequate ladder, and that the owner of the painting company should be criminally charged.

Based upon the investigation to date, it is clear that Se Chae Lee (dba Lees Painting) was responsible for Victim Morales death by directing him to use an A-frame ladder on a sloped Spanish tile roof 30 feet above the ground, creating an open and obvious hazard, the report states. The hazard created by the height and sloped roof was known to Mr. Lee, who failed to take corrective actions to mitigate the hazard.

But the criminal case, documents show, was dropped. The lead investigator blames the involvement of a Cal-OSHA official who was eventually convicted for soliciting bribes in other cases in exchange for reducing penalties. Morales sister, Maybeth said she still wants justicia for her brother and for California officials to get to the bottom of what happened.

In 2018, that official, Richard Fazlollahi, the Santa Ana District Office district manager, was arrested and charged with soliciting bribes from 14 companies. The bribery scheme involved a co-conspirator, private attorney Noushin Dehnadi. The Morales case did not involve Dehnadi, nor was it a part of the charges in the subsequent bribery cases.

Oversight at the agency

The deputy director then was Debra Lee, who was in charge of the enforcement division where Fazlollahi worked. Lee was appointed by Newsom in June to lead the nations largest state OSHA agency.

A spokesperson for Cal-OSHA told The Bee that Lee and the agency did not conduct an internal investigation into Fazlollahis conduct following his arrest because they were instructed not to do so by the office of Californias Attorney General. Instead Cal-OSHA kept him on salary for a year and paid him an additional $201,000 in extra pay the agency has not explained.

Morales had recently come to the U.S. from Honduras, according to his relatives. Joanna Morales, a cousin who was serving as Morales sponsor in the U.S. with immigration authorities, described Morales as a sweet guy who loved to play soccer and dreamed of becoming a citizen.

In May, 2017 the Cal-OSHAs Bureau of Investigations recommended criminal charges in Morales death. But, because of Fazlollahis actions, the Orange County district attorney decided she had to drop the case, according to emails, interviews and a review of documents in the case.

Chris Kuhns, who was a senior criminal investigator at Cal-OSHAs Bureau of Investigations, said he found Fazlollahis involvement in the case incredibly strange.

During an informal conference in December 2015, Fazlollahi slashed $40,000 in fines and deleted two citations in violation of Cal-0SHA regulations, which prohibit altering citations during a BOI investigation. Fazlollahi had been informed of the BOI review in a June, 2015 letter and was reminded not to alter any penalties.

They are not supposed to get involved in cases we are working, Kuhns said. But, in retrospect through the informal conference, which is exactly where the corruption he was convicted for happened (in the other cases), he torpedoed the case.

Kuhns said in an interview he remains unsettled about the Morales case. Not only did Fazlollahi reverse citations during the informal conference, in a 2017 meeting with the Orange County DA, the district manager argued against criminal charges. I remember thinking what freaking side are you on here?  Kuhns said.

Kevin Morales, 21, died in a work-related accident in Orange County in 2015. The Cal-OSHA report detailed the fall from the ladder, with images, but the case was dropped.

Kuhns recalled, I still remember coming on to the scene and seeing Kevin Morales lying there in a pool of blood. When you hear fall protection, that sounds like something fancy, but its something basic.

Family wants answers

According to Kuhns report, painting company owner Se Chae Lee picked up Morales every morning at a coffee shop and drove him to the apartment complex. He was paid in cash.

Mr. Lee failed to train Victim Morales on ladder safety and instead shouted at him when he saw him doing something unsafe as witnessed by a tenant, the report states.

Kuhns said Kelly Emby, Orange County Deputy DA, was initially convinced by his report and planned to press charges. But she learned that Fazlollahi had deleted the two accident-related citations, which would have been the bedrock of the case.

In her emails, Emby told Kuhns in 2017 that because Fazlollahi had eliminated two key citations, we could have a serious witness credibility problem. Emby died in 2022 from COVID.

Emby concluded in another email to Kuhns that she agreed fall protection would have prevented the death. But she added, I will not be able to prove a case on this one.

The office of Elliot Kim, Se Chae Lees attorney, emailed Fazlollahi in December 2016 and expressed frustration that the BOI case remained open a year after Fazlollahi slashed the fines.

To refresh your memory we have reached an agreement to $2,370, it said, because there was no causation between the death of the employee and citation imposed. We want to pay the agreed penalty amount and complete the case closure.

Kim did not respond to phone messages asking for comment.

Joanna Morales and Morales sister Maybeth said that they were not informed of criminal charges filed against Fazlollahi. Morales called on California officials to get to the bottom of whether bribes were paid in Kevins case.

Unfortunately undocumented people are exploited and put in dangerous situations. Kevin had dreams, his life mattered, she said.
Yevgeny Poddubny, a correspondent for Russian state television and one of the most popular military bloggers in Russia, has been reported dead by Mikhail Delyagin, a member of the State Duma, and several Russian propagandistic channels. Kremlin-aligned news agency RIA Novosti later reported that the milblogger had been injured.

Source: Russian opposition media outlet The Insider; Kremlin-aligned news agency RIA Novosti

Details: Early reports say that on the afternoon of 7 August, Poddubny was in Kursk Oblast filming reportage about the fighting in the Sudzha district, which has allegedly been infiltrated by Ukrainian forces.

Update: RIA Novosti later reported that Poddubny had been injured as a result of a Ukrainian drone attack in Kursk Oblast and was taken to a local hospital.

Reference from The Insider: Yevgeny Poddubny is one of the best-known Russian military bloggers. He is also employed by the All-Russia State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company and works as a military correspondent for the Rossiya-1 TV channel.

Poddubny is famous for his overly optimistic reports on how Russia is gradually occupying more and more Ukrainian territory. Usually, this information later turns out to be false.

He filmed footage at the Hostomel airbase in Kyiv Oblast in the first few days of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Background:

On the morning of 6 August, Alexei Smirnov, the acting governor of Russia's Kursk Oblast, claimed that Ukrainian forces had mounted an attempt to infiltrate the Sudzha and Korenevo districts of Kursk Oblast. At the same time, Russian social media began to spread reports of fighting in the border areas of Kursk Oblast and claiming that Ukrainian troops were advancing in the Sudzha district with equipment.

The Russian Ministry of Defence later reported that Russian reserve troops had been deployed on the Russian-Ukrainian border in Kursk Oblast.

Russian propagandists and milbloggers are claiming that Ukrainian forces have secured a foothold in the border area.

A state of emergency has been declared in Kursk Oblast on the second day of the border breach.

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Police are looking for Lynne Leyson, right, after the discovery of her operation with Ritchie Coleman, Samson and Stephen Leyson (from left)

The remote Welsh village of Capel Dewi is an idyllic, sleepy community. There are painting classes, a craft market and the occasional pizza night in the village hall, but its mainly for retirees and dairy farmers. Up a narrow country lane youll find Pibwr Farm, a collection of cabins and sheds with signs warning of CCTV and guard dogs.

It was once home to Lynne Leyson, 52, who seemed like a normal middle-aged wife and mum of three. According to neighbours, she was always impeccably made-up with her hair done. But Leyson was living a double life, as the powerful matriarch behind one of the biggest organised crime families in Wales, supplying cocaine and cannabis from the family farm.

This week, Leyson has been put on the UKs most wanted list, after going on the run over a year ago. Her mugshot and aliases have now been issued to all UK police forces, and Crimestoppers is offering up to 1,000 for information leading to her capture. It sounds like something from Ozark or Breaking Bad, but how did this seemingly respectable member of a rural south-west Wales community end up becoming one of the countrys most-hunted fugitives?

The authorities are offering up to 1,000 for Lynne Leyson's capture - Wales News Service

Although the village was shocked when police with sniffer dogs raided Pibwr Farm in the early hours of October 27 2021, there were always signs that it wasnt your typical smallholding. Residents of Capel Dewi have subsequently reported that they noticed large dogs guarding the property, occasionally smelt cannabis and often saw fast, high-end cars entering the farm, especially at weekends. A few claim to have spotted polytunnels where cannabis was growing, but if locals had their suspicions, nobody had any idea of the scale of the operation.

Yet police recovered 592g of cocaine with a street value of up to 60,200; 1.4kg of cannabis with a street value of 15,615; and a 9mm semi-automatic handgun hidden in a canvas bag in a cavity in the ceiling of a cabin. It is believed to be the first such firearm of its kind ever found in the Dyfed-Powys Police area. Most of the drugs were hidden in a dog shed and a green suitcase in the corner of a field. Assets including a 9,550 Tag Heuer Formula 1 watch and 17,190 in cash were also found. The Leysons  who initially denied any wrongdoing  claimed the money came from a house sale.

The Leyson family are an organised crime group who tried to make a quick buck by selling large quantities of cocaine and cannabis to sub dealers across south west Wales, said Dyfed-Powys Police detective chief inspector Rhys Jones. We hope this case sends a clear message that we are continuously working to disrupt the supply of illegal substances in our force area and will prosecute anyone who tries to spread their misery through our communities for financial gain.

Police recovered up to 60,200 of cocaine from the Leysons' farm - Wales News Service

In July 2023, Lynnes husband, Stephen Leyson, now 56, was jailed for 11 years and their son Samson, 25, was sent to prison for six years. The police investigation  codenamed Operation Hilston  led officers to two dealers living in Pembrokeshire who had been selling drugs for the family, including one who goes by the nickname Mr Pickles, who were also jailed.

But Lynne skipped bail after the trial and disappeared before she could be sentenced. The judge, Catherine Richards, said Lynne was a dominant force who played a leading role in the drugs enterprise by directing events from the farm. In September, she was handed a nine-year sentence in her absence.

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: They seemed like a normal farming family 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.

Lynne Leyson grew up in Swansea and attended the now-closed Dynevor School, which counts Harry Secombe, former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, and the Conservative MPs Nigel Evans and Julian Lewis among its alumni.

She married Stephen in 1998 and worked as a carer but she was prosecuted for theft after stealing from one of her clients. Stephen  who was described by his lawyer at his trial as a hopeless cocaine addict  had a string of sentences and served time in Cardiff prison for GBH.

Stephen Leyson was jailed in 2023 for 11 years - Wales News Service

The Leysons had three children and initially lived in Kidwelly  15 miles from Capel Dewi  where neighbours reported that they sold drugs out of an ice-cream van. He used to drive and shed serve, but they were serving more than ice cream, put it that way, one said.

Stephen inherited the farmland on the outskirts of Capel Dewi from his father in 2019. It must have seemed like the ideal isolated location from which to scale up the family business.

Judge Richards said she was quite sure Lynne Leyson  who has been known to use the alias Annelyn Caldicot  would be arrested and brought before a court at some point. Police have now searched a number of addresses across south Wales previously linked to the Leysons, but Lynne has gone to ground.

There is a suggestion she could be in Thailand, as her father  who died in 2023  owned a property there. She also has family in West Yorkshire, but they are estranged from her.

I knew nothing about any of this. I have not seen her for 20-odd years, not since she was a kid of 15, said her half-brother Patrick Brooke, 56. Nobody has had anything to do with her. No one even knew anything about the court case. I didnt even know she was married. My dad had a place in Thailand. It is in a village. Not one of the main towns, I could not tell you where it was. She may be heading to Thailand. She wont be coming to us, that is for sure.

Meanwhile, life seems very quiet around Pibwr Farm now  rolling hills, a few sheep. It seems a very long way from guns, drugs and gangsters. But as the Leysons proved  looks can be deceiving.

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Fate of Oklahoma County killer in the hands of governor after state board recommends clemency

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board, pictured during a June 17 clemency hearing, on Wednesday voted to recommend clemency for Oklahoma County killer Emmanuel A. Littlejohn. (Photo by Kennedy Thomason/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board in an unusual move on Wednesday voted 3-2 to recommend clemency for Oklahoma County killer Emmanuel A. Littlejohn.

Gov. Kevin Stitt will make the final determination. His office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Littlejohn is set to die Sept. 26 by lethal injection for the 1992 shooting death of Kenny Meers during a convenience store robbery. Meers was shot in the face.

Board members Richard A. Miller and Kevin Buchanan voted against clemency. Members Edward Konieczny, H. Calvin Prince III and Robert Reavis II voted for clemency.

The action came after Littlejohn, his family members and Meers family made emotional pleas for and against mercy.

Littlejohn, who appeared by video, said he wanted to speak to the Meers family.

I have caused yall so much hurt and Im sorry, he said.

He said he thinks about the crime every waking moment.

I was a young man who was mad at the world, he said, adding that three decades later, he is a different person. He was 20 in 1992 and is now 52.

Meers was twice sentenced to die, but maintained he was not the shooter, a claim prosecutors refuted.

I know I didnt kill Mr. Meers, Littlejohn said. I admitted to my part. I committed a robbery that had devastating consequences, but I repeat, I didnt kill Mr. Meers.

Glenn Bethany received life without parole for his role.

Bill Meers said his brother was 31 years old with his whole life ahead of him.

I believe my mom died of a broken heart, Bill Meers said.

He said he was angry and questioned Gods plan.

Bill Meers asked the board not to change the decision of two juries.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond also argued against clemency.

Drummond said he was disappointed in the boards decision, but appreciated their thoughtful deliberation.

I remain steadfast that the family of Kenny Meers has waited far too long for justice to be done, Drummond said. My office intends to make our case to the governor why there should not be clemency granted to this violent and manipulative killer.

Drummonds office argued that Littlejohn had a history of violent behavior starting at a young age and continuing through his incarceration.

Defense attorneys argued that the juries were confused about sentencing, that he came from a troubled childhood and is not in good health.

He now has a positive relationship with his mother, daughter and grandchildren, they said.

Please dont kill my son, said Ceily Mason, his mother.

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A memorial on the Central Southwest Baltimore street where police fatally shot a teenager Sunday night affirms his age  17  in big, blue numbers.

On the brick wall on North Stricker Street, friends and family had written messages of love. Part of the memorial, a sheet of poster board signed with messages, was covered up on Wednesday afternoon ahead of expected rain as a group of teenagers took pictures in front of it.

Officials investigating the police shooting had not released the teens name or age. Those who knew him but declined to provide their names, citing safety concerns, identified him as William Gardner, a 17-year-old who was set to become a father within the next few weeks. A man answering the phone at nearby Aziz Grocery and Tobacco on West Baltimore Street said Gardner had worked for a while at a snowball stand that was occasionally set up out front of the store.

Sources close to the investigation, speaking anonymously because his identity hadnt been released, confirmed the teens name and age. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner also confirmed it was investigating a case under Gardners name and had ruled his death a homicide.

The Maryland Attorney Generals office, which is investigating the shooting along with Baltimore Police, said Tuesday that officers had opened fire on the minor Sunday night after they said he displayed a handgun during a police pursuit that started on North Gilmor Street. Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said Sunday night that he had been stopped because he showed characteristics of an armed person, though he could not elaborate on what those characteristics were.

There was a brief pursuit and a struggle before the teen showed a handgun, Worley said, and three officers shot at him. Officers rendered aid to the teen, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. A loaded handgun was found near him.

The Attorney Generals office said they would not identify the teen, citing privacy laws, though they noted that body camera footage would eventually be released. A Baltimore Police spokesperson said the names of those involved would be disclosed in accordance with our policy.
Father, son found dead in Clearwater apartment after apparent murder-suicide, police say

Father, son found dead in Clearwater apartment after apparent murder-suicide, police say

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A father and son were found dead Tuesday inside of a Clearwater apartment in what is believed to be a murder-suicide, according to the Clearwater Police Department.

Police were called to the Lexington Club Apartments along South Missouri Avenue at about 1:30 p.m. after a worker reported a foul odor coming from one of the apartments.

Clearwater narcotics detective arrested, accused of working with drug traffickers

Inside the apartment, police found two adult men dead. The men are father and son, police said.

Detectives believe the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide, and the names of the two men have not been released.

No other details were immediately available.

This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile 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 WFLA.
We recently compiled a list of the 10 Best Bank Stocks with High Dividends. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) stands against the other bank stocks with high dividends.

Bank stocks are having a moment. The S&P Banks Select Industry Index, which tracks the performance of companies belonging to different banking subsectors, surged by almost 17% in July, while the tech-focused Nasdaq fell by 1.6%. This shift is contributing to the broader market rally that has been ongoing for the past year or so. Share prices of major banks have reached all-time highs, allowing the finance sector to sometimes surpass the tech sector in driving the broader market higher on certain days. This spike in bank stocks came as a surprise to investors and analysts, considering that financial stocks have lagged behind the rest of the market for years. Just a year ago, the banking sector was in turmoil due to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, First Republic, and other major institutions. But as they say, the market moves in mysterious ways.

The current strength of banking stocks suggests that their recent surge is likely to be sustained rather than short-lived. Recently, the Federal Reserve Board conducted its annual stress test, a tool designed to verify that major banks can support the economy during economic downturns. The results indicated that, although large banks might face larger losses compared to last years test, they are well-prepared to withstand a severe recession and remain above the required capital thresholds. In addition, analysts are also presenting a positive outlook on the sector. One key reason for this bullish outlook is that recent earnings reports suggest banks are nearing the end of a slowdown in net interest income. Moreover, good news about inflation has led investors to shift their focus from tech stocks to companies, like banks, that could benefit from Federal Reserve rate cuts. Some of the largest banks, such as JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. have both reached all-time highs this year so far.

The enthusiasm for the sector is backed by evidence, as recent earnings reports from several banks reveal positive results for the second quarter of 2024. Morgan Stanley analyst Betsy Graseck believes that the shift in net interest income from a headwind to a tailwind will be a major factor driving positive operating leverage in the latter half of the year and into 2025.

Another reason for this strong outlook, according to Dave Donabedian, the Chief Investment Officer of CIBCs private wealth division, is that "sticky money" is entering the sector for the first time in a long while. He attributed this trend to investors seeking diversification away from tech stocks and the attractive dividends offered by many bank stocks. The dividend factor is indeed accurate. Banking stocks have continued to offer generous dividends to shareholders. In fact, in 2023, the banking sector set records for dividend payouts and was responsible for half of the global dividend growth, thanks to the higher interest rates that allowed many banks to boost their profit margins. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best dividend stocks from the banking sector.

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Our Methodology:

For this list, we scanned Insider Monkey's database of 920 hedge funds as of Q1 2024 and identified bank stocks that pay dividends. From that list, we picked 10 stocks that have dividend yields above 2%, as of August 4. The stocks are ranked in ascending order of hedge funds sentiment towards them. Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletters strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 275% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 150 percentage points. (see more details here).

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Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 94

Dividend Yield as of August 4: 3.81%

Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) is a New York-based multinational investment bank and financial services company. The recent stress test once again highlighted the robustness of the companys balance sheet. With a CET1 ratio of 13.6%, the company is raising its dividend by 6%. Significant progress has been made in simplifying operations, both strategically and organizationally. In addition, the firm is modernizing its infrastructure to enhance client service and automating processes to strengthen controls. In its recent earnings report, the company highlighted that it will persist in executing its transformation and strategy to achieve its medium-term goals and improve returns over time.

In the second quarter of 2024, Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) reported revenue of $20.1 billion, which showed a growth from $1.94 billion in the same period last year. The company attributed this growth to the strong performance across all businesses. The company is in the midst of restructuring, which is positively impacting its earnings. In March, it sold or closed 9 out of its 14 consumer franchises. Additionally, the company announced that its consumer business in Mexico is set for an initial public offering (IPO) by 2025.

Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) is a strong dividend stock, offering payouts to shareholders consistently for the past 34 years. With a low payout ratio of 34%, the company demonstrates that its future dividends are secure, with the potential to increase its payouts further. After the Fed's stress test, the company raised its quarterly dividend by 6% in July to $0.56 per share. The stock's dividend yield on August 4 came in at 3.81%.

Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C) was a part of 94 hedge fund portfolios at the end of Q1 2024, growing significantly from 87 in the previous quarter, as per Insider Monkey's database. The stakes owned by these hedge funds have a collective value of over $10.6 billion. With over 1 billion shares, Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway was the company's leading stakeholder in Q1.

Overall C ranks 2nd on our list of the best bank stocks to buy. You can visit 10 Best Bank Stocks with High Dividends to see the other bank stocks that are on hedge funds radar. While we acknowledge the potential of C as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some deeply undervalued dividend stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for a deeply undervalued dividend stock that is more promising than C but that trades at less than 7 times its earnings and yields nearly 10%, check out our report about the dirt cheap dividend stock.

READ NEXT: Analyst Sees a New $25 Billion Opportunity for NVIDIA and 10 Best of Breed Stocks to Buy For The Third Quarter of 2024 According to Bank of America.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
FCPS Superintendent is one of highest paid in KY. Heres why, according to school board

In our Reality Check stories, Herald-Leader journalists dig deeper into questions over facts, consequences and accountability. Read more. Story idea? hlcityregion@herald-leader.com.

Fayette County Public School Superintendent Demetrus Liggins is one of the highest-paid public school superintendents in the state, according to data collected by state education officials.

Liggins made $369,142 during the 2023-2024 school year. That figure is Liggins total compensation  including pension and health care benefits.

Only one school superintendent in Kentucky makes more Jefferson County School Superintendent Marty Pollio, who received a substantial raise in 2023 to $350,000 from $276,000 the prior year. Pollios benefits also include $30,000 toward his retirement plan and a monthly car stipend of $750.

According to Pollios 2023 contract, the school system decided to increase Pollios salary after learning Liggins earned more in 2022.

Jefferson County Public Schools is the largest school district in the state with twice the number of students  about 93,000  as Fayette County, which had more than 40,000 students and 8,000 employees last school year.

Liggins base salary is $323,227, said FCPS board chairman Tyler Murphy.

Liggins oversees 42,000 students and more than 8,000 employees. Fayette County students continue to outperform students from other school districts, Murphy said.

Under his leadership, our district continues to outperform the state average in student achievement, Murphy said. And although FCPS only educates 6% of Kentuckys public school students, our students represent 25% of Kentuckys highest achievers.

Murphy said the average per-pupil superintendent salary in Kentucky is $95. Liggins base salary is less than $8 per student.

And, Murphy noted, chief executives in other industries make much more than public school superintendents, who often have more responsibilities and pressure.

This discrepancy, a consequence of delegitimizing public education and undervaluing its impact, should help fuel conversations around how we can better prioritize public education, Murphy said.

Murphy also said Liggins pay raises are tied to adjustment in educator salaries, guaranteeing that his pay increases do not outpace those of a classroom teacher of similar experience and credentials.

Fayette County Public Schools gave employees an average pay increase of 8% in 2023. The minimum increase was 4%. In 2022, the pay increase was 3%. Starting pay for teachers was also raised to $50,000 in 2023, believed to be the highest starting salary in the state.

Fayette Superintendent Demetrus Liggins

But a representative of a teachers union said the school board needs to look at all staff salaries, not just those at the top.

Were never going to begrudge anybody for a salary that they have negotiated in good faith. This was a salary that the board of education here in Fayette (County) thought was, fair and appropriate, said Nema Brewer, a founder of KY120 United-AFT, a union that represents educators, state employees and school staff members.

But I do think that our board really needs to start taking a look at some of the higher-level salaries and positions in the district. We have paraeducators, and custodians, bus drivers in this district that are working two and three jobs, just to be able to live. I would hope that our community is paying attention. I would hope that the board is starting to pay more attention to these types of things.

Liggins makes more then Ky Ed Commissioner, mayor

Liggins makes more than recently hired Kentucky Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher. Fletcher signed a four-year contract with an annual salary of $265,000, said KDE spokesperson Jennifer Ginn.

Liggins is also one of the highest-paid local officials. Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton makes $178,802. Her salary is set by the city charter and city ordinances.

He also makes more than Gov. Andy Beshear, who makes $179,442, according to state records. Beshears salary is also set by state statute.

The Kentucky Department of Education has tracked superintendent salaries for most school districts since the 2001-2002 school year and has made the information publicly available on its website. That data collection is part of a state law, said Ginn, of the Kentucky Department of Education.

The average salary of Kentucky public school superintendents for the 2023-2024 school year was $152,388.
A north Scottsdale apartment complex was quiet Wednesday morning, but at least one resident remained troubled after weathering the thunderstorm the night before that evacuated dozens of residents.

Amy Marrero was getting ready for bed around 9:30 p.m. in her home located inside the apartment complex in the area of Hayden Road and Via de Ventura when she suddenly heard a quick hit of heavy rain and strong wind outside followed by a loud burst and the shattering of her bedroom window.

"I actually screamed. Before I opened the door, I looked through my kitchen and thats when I saw this big tree," Marrero said. "It was sad to see all this disaster."

The National Weather Service issued an alert Tuesday about a severe thunderstorm with 60 mph wind gusts with damage expected to roofs, siding and trees and impacted areas including Scottsdale and Phoenix.

Across Marrero's complex were a handful of fallen trees, including a large, uprooted one. An apartment balcony and a mans car on the building's northeast side were two of the apartments that appeared to have suffered the biggest damage.

Firefighters assisted residents trapped at one unit, according to a 10:49 p.m. Tuesday post on X, formerly Twitter, by Scottsdale Fire. There were no injuries to report Tuesday night as firefighters evacuated 16 other units until the structure was deemed OK, according to the fire department. Hazmat teams were on site to monitor for gas or water leaks, according to Scottsdale Fire spokesman Capt. Dave Folio.

There were about 100 fallen trees in the area, Folio mentioned.

The social media post featured photos of a large uprooted tree and a separate tree broken at its trunk. A video on the post showed what appeared to be tree debris blocking a slick road.

Marrero has experience with severe weather having lived in Puerto Rico and facing destructive hurricanes until she moved to the Valley nine years ago. Still, Tuesday night left her shaken. "We didnt get any sleep, I was very nervous through the whole night. Its like a new fear unlocked, honestly," Marrero said. "Im just worried for everyone, you know? Some people lost their cars. There's so many damages."

National Weather Service meteorologist Isaac Smith said there was a 20-30% chance of isolated thunderstorms Wednesday evening in the Phoenix area that would be confined to higher terrain.

Wednesday's expected high was 105 degrees, which is cooler than normal for this time of year, Smith added.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Thunderstorm uproots trees, damage Scottsdale apartment
Firearms such as those pictured above are banned under a 2013 Maryland law that was upheld Tuesday by a federal appeals court. Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Local and national Second Amendment rights advocates say an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court is likely, following an appeals court decision Tuesday that upholds a 2013 Maryland law banning assault weapons.

The 10-5 split decision by the full 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond leaves in place the 2013 law, despite recent landmark rulings by the nations highest court that some felt would nullify the decade-old Maryland law.

Instead, the majority, in an opinion written by Appeals Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson III said 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.

Moreover, the Maryland law fits comfortably within our nations tradition of firearms regulation. 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, Wilkinson wrote.

The decision in Bianchi v. Brown is just the latest attempt to overturn the 2013 state law. The U.S. Supreme Court remanded the case to 4th Circuit in 2022, after its landmark decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen.

The ruling in Bruen imposed a historical analogue test to firearms laws and regulations using 1791 as a benchmark. Bruen was hailed hailed by Second Amendment advocates and decried by proponents of stricter gun control laws, with both sides predicting the demise of gun control laws across the country.

We conclude that Bruen did not mandate an abandonment of our faith in self-governance, nor did it leave the balance struck throughout our history of firearms regulation behind, Wilkinson wrote for the majority.

Wilkinson went on to write that weapons such as the AR-15, AK-47, and the Barrett .50 caliber sniper rifle are not protected by the Second Amendment because they are excessively dangerous and do not comport with a constitutional right to keep and bear arms for self-defense.

The judge added that the Constitution does not guarantee the right to military-grade or gangster-style weapons. To bolster his argument, Wilkins rattled off a litany of high-profile 21st century horrific mass shootings including Las Vegas, Orlando, Blacksburg, Sandy Hook, Sutherland Springs, El Paso, Uvalde, Lewiston, Parkland, San Bernardino, Binghamton, Fort Hood, Thousand Oaks, Virginia Beach, Washington, D.C., Aurora, Monterey Park, Pittsburgh, Geneva County, Boulder, Buffalo, Covina, Dayton, Red Lake, Roseburg, San Jose, Santa Fe, Allen, Charleston, Indianapolis, Manchester, Omaha, and Plano.

All involved the types of weapons the Maryland law bans, Wilkinson wrote.

Certainly, it would have been shocking to the Framers to witness the mass shootings of our day, Wilkinson wrote.

The majority opinion said that the modern weapons, based on military-grade firearms, were offensive weapons with little to no role in self-protection.

These are not our forebears arms, and these are not our forebears calamities. We thus take the instruction of Bruen to engage in a more nuanced approach to address these unprecedented societal concerns,' Wilkinson wrote.

But Judge Julius N. Richardson, writing for the five dissenting judges, said the majority overstepped its role. The Second Amendment does not let judges balance away precious liberties for the sake of broader societal interests, he wrote.

The Second Amendment is not a second-class right subject to the whimsical discretion of federal judges. Its mandate is absolute and, applied here, unequivocal. Appellants seek to own weapons that are indisputably Arms within the plain text of the Second Amendment, Richardson wrote.

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, he said in his dissent. In holding otherwise, the majority grants states historically unprecedented leeway to trammel the constitutional liberties of their citizens.

Citing the history of the founding of the United States, Richardson argued that possessing such weapons are for self-protection against a tyrannical government.

Richardson wrote that self-defense can be individual or collective. And the Second Amendment expressly ensures that the people can preserve the security of a free Statethat is, a free country or free polity  should their government ever threaten their inviolable liberties. Individual and communal self-defense against both foreign and domestic threats were thus the purposes enshrined in the Second Amendment 

He added: The Second Amendment was adopted to ensure that the people are equipped to protect themselves against both public and private violence. It is a weighty responsibility, undoubtedly, and one that other nations deem unworthy of entrusting to their citizens. Yet our system does so all the same.

The Founders learned from experience that the people are most vulnerable to abuse when they lack the means to defend themselves, so they guaranteed that the people would always have adequate means to safeguard their liberties. Today, the majority disregards the Founders wisdom and replaces it with its own, Richardson wrote.

The law upheld by the federal appeals court was enacted in 2013 following the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in which 26 people  20 of them between the ages of 6 and 7  were shot and killed.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown said Tuesdays ruling will save lives.

Access to weapons of war that have no place in our communities causes senseless and preventable deaths. I commend the Court for its decision, Brown said in a statement. We will continue to vigorously defend common-sense gun safety laws that protect Maryland residents.

The decision was also applauded by gun-control advocates.

Laws prohibiting assault weapons have consistently and correctly been upheld as constitutional under the Second Amendment by federal trial and appellate courts alike  with countless communities undoubtedly safer as a result, said Bill Taylor, deputy director of Second Amendment Litigation at Everytown Law, in a statement.

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Were pleased that the Fourth Circuit saw reason and ruled to protect Marylanders from these instruments of mass violence. In the wake of the Supreme Courts decisions in Bruen and Rahimi, we have seen an overwhelming trend of lower court rulings upholding these crucial laws. We will fight to ensure this trend continues, his statement said.

Everytown Law submitted an amicus brief in favor of the 2013 Maryland law.

Second Amendment advocates predict a Supreme Court challenge.

That was an error. I think its that clear, Mark Pennak, president of Maryland Shall Issue, said about the majoritys ruling.

Pennak, an attorney who is not part of the case, said he has not read the entire ruling. But the dissenting opinion, he said, is correct, especially when it comes the U.S. Supreme Courts 2022 decision in Bruen.

This idea that the AR-15 is uniquely dangerous of the wounds it inflicts. All bullets inflict wounds, Pennak said. All firearms are dangerous in the wrong hands. In the right hands, it can be used for self-defense, including self-defense in the home.

Pennak said he would not be surprised if the plaintiffs sought a review of the case before the Supreme Court.

That will happen, according to a statement from the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), a gun-rights organization based in Bellevue, Washington. The foundation is part of the suit that includes two Baltimore County residents, Dominic Bianchi and David Snope, and Michah Schaefer of Anne Arundel County.

The court relied heavily on the distinction between military style arms and those appropriate for self-defense use, said SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. This distinction runs completely contrary to the mandates of Heller and Bruen, and now sets the stage for another petition for SCOTUS review of the case.

 Maryland Matters reporter William J. Ford contributed to this report.
A decision is here in the massive, multi-government case against Google. In an August 5 ruling, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia held that Google violated federal antitrust law.

The case stems from lawsuits filed by both the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and several U.S. states. In the suitsnow consolidatedthey argued that Google held a monopoly on internet searches and search advertising and had engaged in "exclusionary conduct" to maintain this monopoly, in violation of Section 2 of the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890.

Far from showing Google to be some sort of mustache-twirling corporate villain, however, the ruling showcases how vague U.S. antitrust law is, how subjective interpretations of it can be, and how weirdly federal courts tend to view market dynamics.

Google Is the Default

In a decision penned by U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta, the court acknowledges that Google earned its top spot in the search engine game by hiring highly skilled people, innovating constantly, and making "shrewd business decisions," thereby becoming "the industry's highest quality search engine." Nothing wrong with that.

But Google also struck deals with browser developers, mobile phone companies, and wireless carriers to be the default search engine on their browsers or devices.

These deals do not seem, to me, like they should be illegal. No one is forcing Apple, Mozilla, etc., to strike said deals with Google. And no one is forcing users of their products to use Google for web searching just because it's pre-set as the default. The default may be "extremely valuable real estate," as the court puts it, but if consumers were unhappy with Google, they could set another default.

The reason many don't switch from the default surely turns on Google being, in the court's own words, "the industry's highest quality search engine." Inertia and laziness probably play a role, too, of course. But if Google was terrible, many people would overcome inertia or laziness in order to switch.

"Today's decision pretends that defaults aren't easy for users to change, which they are," said Jessica Melugin, director of the Competitive Enterprise Institute's Center for Technology and Innovation. "Google was believed by Apple to provide the best value, but if customers disagree, it takes about 30 seconds for them to switch to their preferred search tool."

Will a finding that such deals are illegal actually help consumers? Probably not.

"The default contract was a competitive, private process that likely reduced costs for phone purchasers," said Melguin. "That benefit is now in question."

'Google Is a Monopolist'

After more than two years of discovery, with "millions of pages" and "petabytes of data" exchanged, the case came to a trial in September 2023 and, after a lot of post-trial motions, closing arguments were held in March 2024. In the end, the court found Google's distribution agreements to be illegally anticompetitive.

"After having carefully considered and weighed the witness testimony and evidence, the court reaches the following conclusions: Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," Mehta writes.

Specifically, the court found that Google had a monopoly on general search services and general search text ads. "Google's distribution agreements are exclusive and have anticompetitive effects," states the decision. "Google has not offered valid procompetitive justifications for those agreements." The court also concluded that Google "exercised its monopoly power by charging supracompetitive prices for general search text ads."

The ruling wasn't all bad news for Google. The court rejected the DOJ's argument that Google had a monopoly on search advertising, held that Google was not liable "for its actions involving its advertising platform, SA360," and decided against sanctioning Google for not saving employee chat messages.

Google Is 'the Best'

Still, the ruling showcases how weird antitrust law is. The court doesn't deny that Google has a great product, and it doesn't allege that Google engaged in any sort of deceptive or devious behavior to get people to use it. The issue is merely that Google willfully attempted to maintain its perch as the top search engine by striking deals to be the default search setting on browsers and phones or by setting it as the default on its own products.

Google says it won its contracts with other tech companies through competitionand "in a sense, Google is not wrong," the court admits. "It has long been the best search engine, particularly on mobile devices," and it has perpetually innovated.

"Google's partners value its quality, and they continue to select Google as the default because its search engine provides the best bet for monetizing queries," Mehta writes. Microsoft and DuckDuckGo have tried to bid for the default positions and "these firms have not succeeded in part due to their inferior quality."

The court also admits that Google won out here by having the foresight to concentrate on mobile devices when Microsoft did not.

But because "Google's monopoly in general search has been remarkably durable," it now "has no true competitor," the court determined. Therefore any agreements it makes to maintain its dominance are illegal, basically.

This is nuts. The court essentially says that you can work hard, innovate, be shrewd, spend money, and do all sorts of legal things to gain massive market sharebut, once you do, you better sit back and let others usurp your position or else you're an illegal monopolist.

'Courts Are Not Very Good at Understanding How Markets Work'

"The court's order, which relies heavily on contested theories from the field of behavioral economics about the supposed power of defaults, fails to demonstrate how the contractual agreements at-issue harm consumers or competition," said International Center for Law and Economics President Geoffrey A. Manne via email. "Moreover, the court overlooks the broader competitive landscape in search and the vigorous competition in which Google has been engaged to become the default search engine."

"The fact that Google search has an 80% market share even on Windows devices, where Edge is the default browser and Bing is the default search engine, demonstrates that consumers go out of their way to use Google because they believe it is the best option," Manne pointed out. "A default placement is worth very little if your product isn't any good. By the same token, Google hasn't been ousted as the default anywhere, because it has a superior product. The opinion offers no evidence to suggest that Bing would have become a viable competitor under any other set of facts."

Or, as Dan Greenberg, general counsel at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, put it: "The reason people use Google isn't because of monopoly power; it's because the company offers something people like. Sometimes courts are not very good at understanding how markets work."

One long-standing bug of antitrust decisions around tech is that courts look at the current technological landscape and are unable to imagine how things might change. This happened previously with Microsoft, in a 1990s case that echoes the current case against Google. The case turned on the charge that Microsoft had illegally set its own browser, Internet Explorer, as the default on Microsoft's Windows operating systems. I looked at the Microsoft case and its lessons in this 2021 piece about the bipartisan antitrust crusade against big tech:

Attorney General Janet Reno claimed Microsoft had given itself "a chokehold on the browser software needed to access the Internet"despite the fact that computer manufacturers could also give users other browser software and Windows users could install them. Since Explorer was included as the default option (and could never be fully deleted) and Windows was the most widely used operating system at the time, the feds claimed that consumers were trapped or tricked into using Microsoft's portal to the web. The DOJ sought to force Microsoft to either unbundle the Internet Explorer browser or to include the browser of its competitor, Netscape, in its operating system.The DOJ's case had rested on the assumption that Microsoft had given itself an unfair advantage over competitors that made it the permanent king of the tech industry. This argument assumed that the market was static and that change could come only from the heavy hand of the government. Yet as with IBM, Microsoft lost market power because a host of nimble upstart competitors found ways to meet consumer needs in unexpected ways.The government went after Microsoft just as web-based applications won out over operating systembased applications and mobile operating systems won out over desktop computing.

The same thing may be happening now with Google, suggests Jennifer Huddleston, a senior fellow in technology policy at the Cato Institute.

"The court's decision has a rather static view of the market for search at a time when the way we interact with technology is changing what it means for search (and if general search engines will even be relevant in a few years)," Huddleston posted on X. "For example, the court did not address the ways in which generative AI products including Google's own Gemini or ChatGPT might alter the overall market for search services."

Huddleston also points out how the ruling's focus is not on consumer well-being or utility. "Notably, the decision focused not on the end user consumer or their preferences for various search services but on the underlying agreements between various businesses. It is unclear what the potential remedies might be or how they will impact the consumer experience," she said.

More Sex & Tech News

 Here's a good thread on how far AI image-generation has come in the past few years.

 An Arizona judge has dismissed an Arizona Right to Life lawsuit challenging the inclusion of an abortion rights initiative on the state ballot this November. Meanwhile, in South Dakota:

The South Dakota Supreme Court has reversed a judge's ruling from last month that dismissed a lawsuit aiming to remove an abortion rights initiative from the November ballot.The court on Friday reversed the order of dismissal and sent the case back for further proceedings. The anti-abortion group Life Defense Fund had appealed Judge John Pekas' ruling that dismissed its lawsuit seeking to invalidate the measure. The group alleged myriad wrongdoing related to petition circulators.

 A federal court ruled this week that "the National Institutes of Health (NIH) violated the First Amendment rights of animal rights activists whose social media comments were deleted by the agency," reports Reason's Emma Camp.

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Cincinnati, 2024 | Mural by Adam Lusso (ENB/Reason)

The post Federal Court Rules That Google Illegally Maintained a Monopoly appeared first on Reason.com.
(Getty Images)

A federal judge has rejected a nonprofit groups bid to move to federal court a campaign finance case brought against it by the state ethics commission. In a July 17 opinion, Chief United States District Judge William P. Johnson for the District of New Mexico said his court lacked jurisdiction over the question of whether or not the New Mexico Project, a nonprofit formed last year, must register as a political committee and disclose its donors.

New Mexico In Depth first published this article. It is republished here with permission.

This is a state law case  with exclusively state law causes of action  that belongs in state court, the judge wrote in an opinion that sent the case back to state court in New Mexico.

The New Mexico Project spent thousands of dollars on advertising to influence the outcome of the June primary elections. But it didnt disclose its donors or file expenditure reports, a requirement under New Mexicos Campaign Reporting Act for almost all spending on political advertising. The State Ethics Commission sued the group in late May to compel that disclosure.

Then in late June, the commission sought a preliminary injunction forcing the group to register as a political committee and file required reports with the secretary of state. The commission said the injunction is necessary because the groups president, Jeff Apodaca, had publicly stated that the group would continue spending on campaign ads during the general election.

Shortly after, the nonprofit group filed a notice removing the case to federal court, arguing that federal law governed the case because forced disclosure of its donors would violate the groups first amendment rights. They also claim the commission violated the groups civil and due process rights.

But it didnt take long for Johnson to nix hearing it at the federal level.

Even if the New Mexico Project filed a standalone lawsuit against the state alleging violations under federal law, Johnsons opinion said, that suit would have no bearing on the commissions campaign finance lawsuit against the group. A States authority over its elections is particularly potent  especially with regard to campaign finance laws to ensure the integrity of elections, he wrote.

The judge also agreed to the commissions request that the nonprofit pay its attorney fees and costs associated with the removal to federal court. There was no objectively reasonable basis for removal to federal court, the opinion states. Even further, Johnson said, it was patently unreasonable, and frivolous.

New Mexico In Depth asked the groups attorney, Blair Dunn, how he would respond to the judge calling the attempt to remove the case to federal court unreasonable and frivolous.

We dont really  there is an entire transcript and briefing that explains why the removal was neither frivolous nor unreasonable, Dunn wrote in an email, but judges dont always get it right.

Dunn also said that the case being sent back to state court was an inconsequential aside given what he said were far more egregious violations by the commission that are detailed in the groups response to the complaint, and that would now be decided in state court.
Burn Notice

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is probing a Tesla Cybertruck fire that left the driver burned beyond recognition, Reuters reports, piling on more bad news for a vehicle that's already been plagued with recalls and reports of shoddy work since its launch.

The fiery incident, believed to be the first fatal crash of a Cybertruck, occurred early Monday morning in the Texas city of Baytown when the Cybertruck swerved off the road and crashed into a concrete culvert, according to local outlet KHOU 11, sparking a fire that engulfed the driver.

Local authorities couldn't immediately identify the charred remains of the person in the driver seat, and the fire was so fierce that it burned off the brutalist pickup's vehicle identification number.

The cause of the vehicle crash is also still uncertain. Confusingly, cops told a local news source that they're investigating whether the vehicle had Autopilot engaged at the time of the crash  but as far as we can tell, the Cybertruck has yet to receive Tesla Autopilot and Full Self-Driving, though CEO Elon Musk has been promising that the futuristic truck will get self-driving features soon. But then again, the crash happened just a few hours from Tesla's headquarters in Austin, so it's also possible that the Cybertruck was being driven by an employee with early access to the feature.

Total Recall

This isn't the first time the NHTSA is investigating a crash involving Tesla. It's already been looking into hundreds of incidents involving the company's Autopilot feature, at least 13 of which were fatal.

The Cybertruck has also been subject to four recalls since it became commercially available last year, the latest being for problems with exterior trim pieces falling off and the vehicle's comically-large windshield wiper not working.

Besides its four recalls, the Cybertruck has been plagued with numerous reports about it breaking down or the vehicle injuring its owners, not to mention its numerous delays in production.

Musk was widely quoted telling investors last year that "we dug our own grave with Cybertruck," anticipating its rocky debut. With this year's earlier layoffs at Tesla and the federal investigations, it might have been one time that he successfully predicted the future.

More on the Cybertruck: First Cybertruck Ambulance Has One Small Problem: Nowhere to Put the Patient
Gov. Jim Justice attends the groundbreaking for the new industry exhibit at the state Capitol Complex in Charleston, W.Va. on July 31, 2024. (Office of the Gov. Jim Justice | Courtesy photo)

Yet another blow could be coming for Gov. Jim Justices family business empire as attorneys for the federal government are asking a court to hold 23 of the familys coal companies in contempt for unpaid fines dating back a decade.

The motion was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia on Tuesday and was first reported by West Virginia MetroNews Brad McElhinny.

It comes as Justice, a Republican and the patriarch of the familys vast business conglomeration, is running a campaign as the favored candidate for the Senate seat currently held by Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va.

According to the filing and an accompanying memorandum, the Justice family companies still owe nearly $600,000 in unpaid coal mining health and safety fines, violating a settlement agreement made in 2020 that said the entire debt  totaling about $5.13 million  would be paid off by March 1, 2024.

Attorneys for the federal government called the businesses continued failure to pay their debts despite numerous reminders a blatant violation of the terms previously agreed to.

The only thing consistent about [the Justice companies] payments is the fact they are consistently late, the federal attorneys wrote.

According to the court filings, the 23 coal companies at the center of the motion racked up hundreds of citations and orders for violations of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act as well as standards set by the Mine Safety and Health Administration since 2014.

In 2019, the government filed suit against the Justice companies to collect more than $4 million in past due fines over the previous five years. In 2020, representatives for the Justice companies and the federal government entered into a settlement. The companies agreed to pay what was already due as well as an additional $1.06 million for 85 MSHA citations accrued since the initial suit was filed.

Aaron Houchens, the Virginia-based attorney representing the Justice companies in the litigation, said in an emailed statement that the Justice family paid significant amounts as a result of the settlement.

There remains a balance owed but the organizations are committed to paying that debt in full, Houchens continued. We will be opposing the governments motion and look forward to resolving the matter shortly.

Per the terms of the agreement, the Justice companies were to pay about $213,000 in April 2020, then make monthly installments of $102,422 until the debt was fully paid off in March 2024. Repeatedly in that time the companies failed to make timely payments and, eventually, stopped paying the full monthly sum due at all much less the past-due amounts.

Last June, following months of nonpayment, the court ordered that the Justice companies pay what they owed in 10 days and stay current on future debts. Following that motion, according to the memorandum, attorneys for the companies told the federal government that they lacked the financial means to comply with the courts order but would obtain the financial ability to do so.

That doesnt appear to have ever happened.

In dozens of emails attached to the filed memorandum from Aug. 14, 2023 to July 9, 2024, a legal assistant reminded the companies legal representation of the debts, often multiple times and for weeks after they were initially due.

In one email from Nov. 15, 2023, she told Houchens that no payment had been received since Oct. 5, 2023. The total amount due at that time was about $359,000 from three past due arrears payments as well as the monthly installments from October and November.

The next day, Houchens replied: [The companies] are getting a shipment payment around 11/22, the email read. They can make a payment at that time.

According to a ledger attached to the memorandum, the companies made one payment of $55,221, half of the due monthly payment, on Nov. 21, 2023. No payments were made in December 2023. In January and February of 2024, the companies also only paid half of a monthly installment.

In April, the companies dropped down to paying a quarter of the monthly payment. No payments were made between April and July, when the companies wired just $10,000 out of the more than $589,000 that was still owed.

[The companies] appear to believe they are above the law, attorneys for the federal government wrote in their memorandum.  Numerous court orders have been entered requiring [the companies] to comply with the settlement agreement. Yet time and again, they have not done so.

The lack of payment, according to the attorneys, has yielded real harm as the unpaid health and safety citations are meant as a means to compel mine operators to work within the scope of the law.

[The companies] continual evasion of their financial obligations under the Mine Act removes the incentive of these Defendants  and other mining companies  from complying with MSHAs health and safety standards designed to protect the nations miners, the memorandum reads.

Problems continue to rise for Justice family businesses

The motion to hold 23 of Justices family companies in contempt comes less than a week after a legal advertisement was placed in Lewisburgs West Virginia Daily News announcing that the Greenbrier Hotel, one of the familys largest assets, would be put up for public auction later this month. The foreclosure, according to the advertisement, was due to the Greenbrier Hotel Corp. defaulting and not making good on loans.

The auction is scheduled to take place at 2 p.m. on Aug. 27 in front of the Greenbrier County Courthouse. The property being auctioned totals 60.5 acres and is not the entirety of The Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. It excludes several amenities, including golf courses and other pieces of land.

In a statement, attorneys for Justice and his family said  as the governor has claimed repeatedly for years when issues mount for his businesses  that the foreclosure was a political move orchestrated by Democrats. Justice attorney Bob Wolford said in a statement that the resort will not be sold and that the company will take all necessary action to ensure no adverse impact on their ownership of the Greenbrier or the Greenbriers operations.

It wouldnt be the first time that a Justice-owned property was slated for auction but didnt end up being sold.

In 2023, Carter Bank & Trust attempted to collect on a $300 million debt from loans made out to the family companies. According to MetroNews, a legal advertisement was placed in newspapers announcing an auction of the Greenbrier Sporting Club (another Justice asset) to satisfy the debt. The Justices filed suit and the auction was put on hiatus.

Those incidents are just a handful of the dozens of examples of lawsuits, liens and more that have come against Justice properties in the last decade due to unpaid taxes, bills and fines.

Meanwhile, Justices political career has been largely untouched by his business failings. Justice lost his billionaire status in 2021 when $850 million in outstanding loans for his companies came to light.

And despite the clear hardships hitting his companies, the governor continues to refer to himself as a businessman over a politician. He regularly alludes to his business acumen when appealing to voters and has used the background as a can-do businessman while campaigning for the U.S. Senate.

While he is quick to take ownership of his companies successes when they occur, he consistently distances himself from them when problems arise. He instead insists that his children are at the helm of the business empire while he keeps his distance.

The governor has never opted to put all of his companies in a blind trust while serving in public office. In May, he said that would probably remain the case if hes elected to the Senate.

When asked about his companies documented troubles, Justice prefers to lambaste the media instead of answering questions.

Justice usually holds weekly, digital administration briefings where some press are authorized to ask often pre-screened questions of the governor. Last weeks briefing occurred a day before the Greenbrier Hotel auction was first reported by MetroNews.

As of 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, no briefing had been announced by the administration for this week and no live broadcasts were scheduled on the governors YouTube page.

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Primary candidates in the 2024 Washington state governor's race. From left to right, Semi Bird (R), Bob Ferguson (D), Mark Mullet (D) and Dave Reichert (R). (Photos courtesy of campaigns)

Democrat Bob Ferguson and Republican Dave Reichert will battle to be Washingtons next governor in November after storming to the front of the 28-person field in Tuesdays primary.

Ferguson, 59, the three-term attorney general, had hauled in around 45.5% of the vote, according to results posted by the secretary of state around 8:30 p.m. Reichert, 73, a seven-term congressman and former King County sheriff, received 27.9%.

The Associated Press called the primary for Ferguson and Reichert around 8:15 p.m.

This campaign has always been about us and Dave Reichert, Ferguson said. The good news is that the people of this great state will have a very, very clear choice for their next governor.

In Puyallup, a crowd of nearly 200 stood, cheered and chanted Dave as Reichert took the stage after it was clear he had secured a spot in the general election.

This is the beginning of fixing whats broken  and doing whats right, he said to more cheers.

Both dusted off intraparty challenges to their political right.

Republican Semi Bird, a former Richland school board member and the Washington State Republican Partys endorsed candidate, had 9.4%. Democratic state Sen. Mark Mullet, running as a moderate alternative to Ferguson, was fourth with 5.8%.

Reichert will need to make up a lot of ground in the coming weeks to win in November. One of the first goals would seem to be corraling support from Republicans who backed Bird.

Asked if he would reach out to Bird for his endorsement, Reichert said, Ill make the decision tomorrow.

The two have had a charged relationship with Bird accusing Reichert supporters of working against him throughout the primary. Reichert left the state party convention because he disagreed with the process that led to Bird securing the endorsement.

Ferguson, at his election night party, thanked Mullet for his 12 years of service in Olympia. Mullet received just under 6% of the votes on Tuesday night.

Mark and I share a passion on many issues, including making sure our state is affordable for all Washingotnians, he said. Please give Mark a big round of applause.

Gov. Jay Inslees decision to retire means Washington will get a new governor for the first time in 12 years.

Recent history shows battles for open seats are close. In 2004, Democrat Christine Gregoire defeated Republican Dino Rossi by just 129 votes following a hand recount. Eight years later, Inslee collected 51.5% en route to beating Republican Rob McKenna.

Washingtons last Republican governor was John Spellman. He was elected in 1980 but lost re-election. Since then, Democrats have won 10 straight gubernatorial contests.

Ferguson entered the race as the presumptive frontrunner. He had a stockpile of cash from prior campaigns, organization and hed already done a bit of groundwork in 2020 when it seemed Inslee, after a failed presidential bid, would step aside rather than seek a third term.

But Inslee ran, scuttling Fergusons gubernatorial ambitions. Ferguson instead won another term as the states top lawyer.

A tireless campaigner, Ferguson vacuumed up endorsements of Democratic Party organizations across the state and is the top choice of the state Democratic Party. He had raised $9 million and spent just over $7 million as of Monday, according to filings with the Public Disclosure Commission.

While hes won backing from the partys left flank, hes campaigned on a Republican-oriented message of improving public safety and hiring cops. Hes also outlined plans to make housing more affordable and to resolve problems plaguing Washington State Ferries.

Reichert is running after years of considering a bid for this office. Hes raised $4.4 million and spent $3.9 million ahead of Election Day.

He too talks about reducing crime, making communities safer, and lowering everyday costs for families. And Reichert has, at times, looked to tie Ferguson to the myriad of policies passed by the Democratic majority in Legislature and signed by Inslee.

Expect abortion to be a central focal point in their battle this fall.

Ferguson has attacked Reichert unrelentingly for his votes in Congress on bills that, had they passed, would have imposed greater limits on abortion access than allowed in the state.

Reichert put out an ad in the primary stating that if elected he wont work to change Washington laws. But it wont erase the issue given his history.

Hes personally opposed to abortion. In his seven terms in Congress, he supported bills to eliminate federal funding for it and create a national abortion ban at 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Meanwhile, he and other Republicans have chastised Ferguson for being soft on public safety issues during his time as attorney general.

In the meantime, Bird and Mullet proved to be pesky challengers for each of their parties frontrunners. And their supporters could spell the difference in November for Ferguson and Reichert.

Bird, a military veteran, snagged the state Republican Party endorsement and had boisterous support from a bloc of the party that is more conservative on social issues and wary of government overreach.

He also faced scrutiny from some in the party. They viewed him as unelectable, citing his 2023 recall from the school board and personal travails including a misdemeanor conviction three decades ago for seeking to obtain a line of credit by forging his dads name on a bank application.

I take full accountability, he told delegates at the state party convention before they endorsed him. His campaign struggled to gain traction after the convention.

Mullet encountered similar hurdles running as a social progressive and fiscal conservative.

He criticized Ferguson for supporting the decriminalization of drugs and raised questions about the attorney generals fundraising. Those swipes at his Democratic opponent failed to meaningfully shift the dynamics of the race, as Mullet struggled to overcome a lack of name recognition and, despite support from pro-business donors, trailed far behind Ferguson raising money.
Amid a backdrop of global economic uncertainty and mixed performance in major indices, Germany's DAX has experienced notable declines, reflecting broader market sentiment. Despite these challenges, opportunities remain for discerning investors who recognize the potential in under-the-radar small-cap stocks. In this article, we'll explore three hidden gems within Germany's market that demonstrate resilience and growth potential even in turbulent times.

Top 10 Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals In Germany

Name Debt To Equity Revenue Growth Earnings Growth Health Rating Mineralbrunnen Uberkingen-Teinach GmbH KGaA 19.44% -1.40% -8.94%  EnviTec Biogas 37.96% 19.34% 51.22%  FRoSTA 8.18% 4.36% 16.00%  Sudwestdeutsche Salzwerke 0.66% 4.03% 11.36%  SIMONA 17.90% 10.89% 9.64%  HOMAG Group NA -27.42% 22.33%  Baader Bank 91.28% 12.42% -8.00%  BAVARIA Industries Group 3.19% 0.18% 28.18%  Wilson 64.79% 30.09% 68.29%  BAUER 78.29% 2.30% -38.28% 

Click here to see the full list of 40 stocks from our German Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals screener.

We're going to check out a few of the best picks from our screener tool.

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: HOMAG Group AG, along with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells machines and solutions for the woodworking and timber construction industries worldwide, with a market cap of 580.46 million.

Operations: HOMAG Group generates revenue primarily from the sale of machines and solutions for woodworking and timber construction industries. The company's cost structure includes manufacturing expenses, R&D costs, and SG&A expenses. Gross profit margin is 23.45%.

HOMAG Group, a notable player in the machinery sector, has faced challenges recently with earnings growth at -61.9%, significantly lagging behind the industry average of 5.6%. Despite this, HOMAG boasts high-quality past earnings and remains debt-free, which is a strong indicator of financial stability. The company repurchased shares last year, reflecting management's confidence in its long-term prospects. However, profit margins have dipped compared to the previous year, highlighting areas for potential improvement.

DB:HG1 Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: EnviTec Biogas AG manufactures and operates biogas and biomethane plants across multiple countries, including Germany, Italy, Great Britain, and the United States, with a market cap of 446.99 million.

Story continues

Operations: EnviTec Biogas AG generates revenue primarily from three segments: Service (48.58 million), Plant Engineering (132.13 million), and Own Operation including Energy (236.10 million). The company operates internationally across various countries, contributing to its diverse revenue streams.

EnviTec Biogas, a small cap in Germany's renewable energy sector, reported impressive financials for 2023 with sales reaching 441.9 million and net income at 58.46 million. The companys debt to equity ratio improved from 41.7% to 38% over five years, while its earnings grew by 27.6%, outpacing the Oil and Gas industrys -24.9%. Additionally, EnviTec's interest payments are well covered by EBIT (419x), reflecting robust financial health and potential for continued growth in the biogas market.

XTRA:ETG Debt to Equity as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Logwin AG offers logistics and transport solutions across Germany, Austria, other European countries, the Asia/Pacific region, and internationally, with a market cap of 760.11 million.

Operations: Logwin AG generates revenue primarily from its Air + Ocean segment (954.25 million) and Solutions segment (275.78 million). The company has a market cap of 760.11 million.

Logwin, a small cap logistics company, recently announced half-year earnings with sales of 643.5 million and net income at 31.86 million, compared to 672.97 million and 40.49 million respectively from the previous year. Basic earnings per share dropped to 11.07 from 14.06 last year. Despite these figures, Logwin trades at 28% below its estimated fair value and has reduced its debt-to-equity ratio from 0.04% to 0.03% over the past five years while maintaining more cash than total debt.

XTRA:TGHN Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Aug 2024

Taking Advantage

Take a closer look at our German Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals list of 40 companies by clicking here.

Have you diversified into these companies? Leverage the power of Simply Wall St's portfolio to keep a close eye on market movements affecting your investments.

Elevate your portfolio with Simply Wall St, the ultimate app for investors seeking global market coverage.

Interested In Other Possibilities?

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include DB:HG1 XTRA:ETG and XTRA:TGHN.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Waupun Correctional Institution, photographed in 2017 (Wisconsin Department of Corrections photo)

A fifth death of a person serving time at the Waupun Correctional Institution (WCI) was reported Monday. Christopher McDonald, 57, was found dead in what authorities say appears to be a suicide. McDonalds death remains under investigation by the Dodge County Sheriffs Department, according to the Department of Corrections (DOC).

On Tuesday, the Associated Press reported, Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt said in a statement that initial investigation suggests that, at the time of discovery, staff responded rapidly and appropriately, providing medical aid in an effort to save the inmates life.

McDonald had been sentenced in 1993 in Waukesha County for first-degree intentional homicide, being party to first-degree intentional homicide, and being party to a robbery as a habitual offender, according to online court records. With a sentence that totaled over 2,000 years for those counts, McDonald was unlikely to ever leave prison.

McDonalds death is the most recent in a string  attributed to suicide and negligent care by prison staff  that began in June 2023 with the death of Dean Hoffmann. The 60-year-old had been transferred from general population to the prisons restrictive housing unit, more commonly known as solitary confinement. During a facility-wide lockdown of recreation, educational programming, and family visitation, staff failed to provide Hoffmann with his prescribed medications. Hoffmanns family later filed a wrongful death lawsuit, held protests, and called for an end to lockdowns at Waupun and other DOC facilities. The DOC has since rolled back some prison restrictions.

In early October, Tyshun Lemons overdosed in general population on a substance containing fentanyl. Later that same month, Cameron Williams died of a stroke at WCI. Staff at the prison failed to report previous episodes when Williams collapsed and experienced labored breathing to supervisors or take other action.

In February of this year, Donald Maier was found dead in his cell due to dehydration and malnutrition after being placed in the restrictive housing unit, where water to his cell had been shut off.

Just days after resigning in early June, the prisons warden Randall Hepp and seven of his staff were charged for abuse of prison residents, and misconduct in public office. While Schmidt, the sheriff, said at the time of their arrests that the prison staffers conduct disturbed him, he declined to blame the lockdowns for the rash of deaths. Allegations of smuggling at the prison are also under investigation

Outside of its adult facilities, the DOC has also struggled with fallout after a staff member died following an incident involving a juvenile at the Lincoln Hills School for Boys. Two teens, a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, have been charged in connection to a fight in late June, which led to the death of 49-year-old staff member Corey Proulx. A criminal complaint alleges that one of the teens punched Proulx, who fell and hit his head on the concrete pavement.

Lincoln Hills remains under a court-appointed monitor after a $25 million settlement in connection with allegations of abuse of juveniles in custody. and court-appointed monitoring period, which continues today. Efforts to close the troubled facility have been repeatedly delayed unsuccessful, with the legislature holding in limbo construction of a new facility near Milwaukee, where many of the youth are from.

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Fill the Food Bank: News 19 needs YOU to help combat food crisis in North Alabama

ALABAMA (WHNT)  We are in a Food Crisis. Food needs in Madison County have skyrocketed, and other counties are on the rise too.

Chances are you know someone who struggles to find enough food to eat for themselves and their family, and no one should go hungry.

So, News 19 needs your help to Fill the Food Bank of North Alabama, starting on Monday, August 12. We need you to donate. Its an investment in our people.

Every dollar donated provides seven meals. Yes  7 meals! $10 provides seventy meals and $20 delivers 140 meals.

The food bank can get fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy and more at a significantly lower price. This means your monetary donation stretches a lot more than it would at the local grocery store.

In 2023, we raised enough money to provide 187,726 meals for the Tennessee Valley. That is more than the populations of Lawrence and Limestone Counties combined. We helped the Food Bank fill food needs for children, seniors and families facing food insecurity. But our work is not done.

To donate monetarily, you can do so by texting FOODBANK to 256-746-6112 or by visiting the donation website here.

Your money goes a long way to combat food needs in our communities.

Earlier in August our News 19 Team volunteered at the Food Bank of North Alabama. We are all in on ending food insecurity for the community.

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BOSTON (SHNS)  Dozens of anti-homelessness groups, medical professionals and social workers launched another plea this week for Gov. Maura Healey to back down from changes to the states strained emergency shelter system that they argue will force adults and children onto the streets with nowhere else to go.

With some families facing eviction from overflow shelter sites later this week, the Massachusetts Coalition for Health Equity is collecting signatures on an open letter urging the governor to reverse course.

The brutality of this policy is frankly shocking, said Dr. Lara Jirmanus, a family physician and coauthor of the letter. In the past week I have heard stories about families discharged to the street. Domestic violence survivors living out of a car with their young children with special needs, wondering whether DCF would take their kids. This mass eviction with only a two week warning is creating utter chaos for hundreds of children and families. Such traumatic experiences shatter the developmental process of childhood, compounding trauma for children and families who have already suffered so much, and have the fewest resources to cope and recover. Massachusetts can do better than this.

Letter authors praised the Healey administrations plan rolled out in January to close health care disparities and contrasted it with the latest shelter policy, which limits families to spending a maximum of five business days at overflow sites and then makes those people ineligible for longer-term EA shelter stays for at least six months.

New rules that took effect Aug. 1 also prioritize placement into emergency assistance shelters  which under a law Healey signed in April limit stays in most cases to nine months  for Massachusetts families over newly arriving migrants.

In light of the Supreme Court ruling [about sleeping in public places], and the City of Boston Unlawful Camping Ordinance, this decision will force adults and children onto the streets with nowhere else to go, where they will inevitably find themselves at risk of illness related to exposure to severe weather, violence and abuse, arrest, separation from their children, and deportation, authors wrote. Their very existence, simply for seeking safety and being unhoused residents of the state of Massachusetts, will be criminalized.

The letter signers urged Healey to reconsider and postpone the latest shelter eligibility changes, brainstorm other options with community partners, make clear alternative housing options for families discharged from shelters and overflow sites, and maintain equal access to school and health insurance enrollment for all families regardless of language spoken, national origin, or immigration status.

Signatories include the Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program, Centers for New Americans, Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Mass. Budget and Policy Center, and Greater Framingham Community Church.

Healey has repeatedly defended a series of decisions to limit shelter stays and eligibility as necessary to keep the system afloat after more than a year of record demand. Massachusetts spent close to $1 billion on emergency assistance shelters in fiscal 2024, about a fivefold increase over what the state spent on the system in fiscal 2021.

Since the fall, the state has limited the maximum number of families in EA shelters at around 7,500, and capacity has remained at that level since then with hundreds more families on waitlists.

Healey said in a July 31 interview on GBH Newss Ask the Governor that while she is open to ideas to keep people housed for longer, it is not unlimited in terms of capacity or funding.

Tapping into the more than $8 billion rainy day state savings account to help cover shelter costs, she said, is not in my control.

Thats there, but its not a fund that you can just write a check from. The question really is, how much can we continue to afford? You see the tab that weve been running up. Thats what were up against, Healey said.

Healey or lawmakers could propose drawing down from that savings accounts balance. State law limits spending from the rainy day fund to closing revenue gaps, replacing lost federal funds, and for any event which threatens the health, safety or welfare of the people or the fiscal stability of the commonwealth or any of its political subdivisions.

The five days is an opportunity for people who are new here to meet with a case manager, Healey said. Perhaps they have a cousin or a family member living somewhere else in the United States. Well help you get there, or you may be able to find housing on your own through community or people you know here, and well provide you those services, but we cant continue to house people.

Healey this year sent a team to the southern border, where families are fleeing violence in their home countries and entering the U.S.

It would be inhumane of me to sugarcoat whats going on or what people would be facing if they come to Massachusetts, Healey said.

She added, Weve been the the border and weve said, Massachusetts, we are a kind and a generous people, we are also full here. And so as folks are assessing their options around the country, consider other places because we are full here, and that continues to be my position.

Healey and legislative Democrats  who have largely supported her reforms and pushed some shelter limits of their own  argue that federal action is needed to overhaul immigration policy, although no federal response appears imminent.

Opponents have been unsuccessful at getting Beacon Hill to walk back shelter limits, but they plan to continue the pressure leading up to the start of overflow site evictions on Friday.

Activists organized by the Mass. Law Reform Institute and Mass. Coalition for the Homeless plan a vigil in front of the State House on Thursday and a speak out in front of Healeys third-floor office.

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In his final year, National Night Out remains priority for DMPD Chief Wingert

In his final year, National Night Out remains priority for DMPD Chief Wingert

DES MOINES, Iowa  For 33 years, this night has been part of Dana Wingerts business.

We determined decades ago you can either police the community, or you can be part of the community, said Wingert, who became the Des Moines Police Chief in 2015.

National Night Out is a nationwide event, but under Wingert, its been a Des Moines thing.

So a lot of the officers, he explained, theyll look at the itinerary for tonight and they know oh wait a minute, I work with this neighborhood or this neighborhoods in my beat; I know these folks. So theyll make it a point to get out there themselves.

Its a night to clear up misconceptions.

That police are always just trying to get you, offered Southsider, Lucy King. That no matter what youre guilty.

And to make connections.

Being active in the community, yes  it shows them that they care, said DeShawn Smith of the Watrous neighborhood.

To hear good things.

Im gonna say thanks for saving all the people who needed help, said a Park Elementary School student name Eliza.

And candid concerns.

Ive had a great experience and Ive also had a bad experience, said Watrous resident, Racquel Web-Bey.

Man found guilty of killing Algona officer requests new trial

The last four years have been filled with the stuff of nightmares for police. Terrible mistakes, civil unrest, riots in state capitols, attacked by Trump supporters in the nations capital.

Wingert says his department relied on its relationship with its neighborhoods and weathered the storm.

I see cities struggling all over the country, he said. That may never get back to normal, but in Des Moines, were right where we need to be and thats credit to the people.

I feel like we deal with things a little bit differently, here, said Web-Bey. We have more communication  I feel like its a small town.

If theres an incident their response time is really pretty good, Smith added.

Weve had a couple of engagements with them with people in our neighborhood and theyve been nothing but kind to everybody, said Keanu King, another Southsider. Theyve talked to everyone and we got everything figured out.

On a night when Mother Nature kindly turned down the heat, Des Moines police wanted to take the cue  resetting their faces in the community and redefining their roles.

We take 300,000 calls for service a year, Wingert said. Our arrest totals are somewhere between 8,500 and 12,000. You do the math on that  the hard enforcement is very little of what we do. Most of it is having those community actions, problem-solving in the neighborhoods, helping people on their worst day, the enforcements just a small part of it. Tonight is a perfect example of that.

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LEBANON COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is providing financial assistance to eligible children of veterans for higher education.

The department is reminding residents of its Educational Gratuity Program, which aims to provide financial assistance to children of honorably discharged veterans who sustained service-connected disabilities, or children of veterans who died in service during a period of war or armed conflict.

The program supports both children of veterans who were discharged under honorable conditions, who have 100% permanent service-connected disabilities, and who served during a period of war or armed conflict, and children of veterans who died in service during a period of war or armed conflict.

Eligible children must be between the ages of 16-23, must be living within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania five years prior to application, and must attend a school within the Commonwealth. All applicants must demonstrate a financial need.

Payments will not exceed $500 per term or semester per qualified child to each approved educational institution over a total of eight terms or semesters.

The Educational Gratuity Program provides financial support for higher education to children of eligible veterans who have made incredible sacrifices for our nation, said Major General Mark Schindler, Pennsylvanias Adjutant General and Head of the DMVA. This program allows us to give back to the families who have endured the sacrifices of their loved ones who served. We encourage everyone who is eligible to apply for this program now as we are approaching the school year.

This program can be applied to both colleges and trade schools across the Commonwealth, said Brigadier General Maureen Weigl, Deputy Adjutant General of Veterans Affairs. These educational gratuity payments will add up over time and can really make a difference for the children of those who served, no matter which schooling path they choose to pursue.

To apply, contact the County Director of Veterans Affairs for the county in which you reside.

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Financial literacy isn't always taught in schools. So parents are picking up the slack.

Parents can help their children develop financial literacy skills at home. andresr/Getty Images

Access to financial literacy education varies across K-12 schools in the US.

Parents can encourage financial literacy skills for their children at home.

Children can also build financial literacy using educational resources like apps.

Financial stability can directly impact a person's quality of life. Yet ensuring young people develop the financial skills to achieve economic success as adults is not prioritized in all K-12 educational settings.

According to the California Department of Education, only 26 states in the United States require high school students to take a course in personal finance. California just recently made this requirement official; in the press release announcing the agreement, Gov. Gavin Newsom said, "Saving for the future, making investments, and spending wisely are lifelong skills that young adults need to learn before they start their careers, not after."

However, research demonstrates that learning about finances outside a traditional school setting can also be impactful.

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Financial Counseling and Planning found that "college students that were explicitly taught financial basics by their parents, felt a beneficial influence of this teaching when they made financial decisions."

Although financial literacy education is not a national requirement, parents can still foster financial literacy skills within their children right at home.

Ensure your child understands the importance of budgeting from an early age

Although it's not uncommon for people of all ages to fall into the trap of behaving as if money is limitless, making sure your child understands that it's a finite resource could be a good place to start from an early age.

Jennifer Seitz, the director of education at the family finance technology company Greenlight, told Business Insider that as soon as kids are aware of money and want to start using it to buy things, they're ready to learn about it in an age-appropriate way. For some, this is as early as preschool.

Whenever your child seems ready for more advanced concepts related to money, you can start talking about budgeting.

"Parents can introduce the concept of a budget, and that a budget is a plan for your money, and it's where you can decide how much money will be spent on certain things," Seitz said.

"A very common early lesson is about opportunity cost, which means learning about trade-off decisions  that basically, if you use your money for something else, it's spent, gone, and not available for something that you may want to use it for later that day or another day," Seitz continued.

Seitz told BI an example of introducing opportunity cost could take the form of reminding a child who wants a treat from the grocery store that they could use their money for a treat that day or use it for ice cream a couple of days later, but not for both.

Seitz also said that although increasing your child's knowledge around financial literacy at an early age can be really beneficial, parents of older teens need to know that it's not too late for them, too. Even if you didn't start early, that doesn't mean you can't start now.

If your child is a teen, Seitz recommends encouraging them to start thinking about their future financial aspirations and explaining how good financial planning can help them achieve those goals. Seitz said teens, in particular, may want to save up money for a concert, attend class trips, or a school dance, and even start planning around paying for higher education. Whatever their future holds, talking to them about how money plays a role in those plans is a crucial step.

Pay attention to the financial habits your children are observing from you

Although it may be easy to forget sometimes, your child is learning from your behaviors and the habits of the other people around them regarding a multitude of things, including how to handle finances.

Seitz told BI that numerous studies examining how children develop money knowledge have identified that one way children learn is through modeling, where they observe their families' financial habits and attitudes towards money.

Seitz also said parents should be open to having conversations with their children about money and prepare for those conversations if they're not used to doing so, as conversations about money also foster children's money knowledge.

Encourage your child to play a direct role in their financial literacy learning journey

While having conversations and modeling behaviors are good ways to teach your child, sometimes the best way to increase their learning is to allow them to turn their knowledge into action and be an active participant in their own journey with money.

Michael Broughton , founder and CEO of Altro, an app that helps users build credit, told BI that getting started on the stock market could be a beneficial tool.

"I think the biggest thing that most parents may not know is that you can open up a brokerage in the name of your kids, so they can actually have a stock account that's in their name that they're able to trade on," Broughton said.

"What I'm doing with my younger sister is just setting up an automatic pull from an account. So every two weeks, she's getting maybe $25 or $50 to go invest in the stock market and see it grow," he continued.

Broughton told BI that parents should show their children that they are able to invest in things that they are actually passionate about.

"So my little sister, she invested in Mattel because she thought that Barbie was going to do really well  she invested in some bowling stuff, some games stuff, and that's really helped build the beginning of her portfolio."

Broughton also told BI that although stocks can be hard to explain, referring to certain events impacting the stock market as simply good or bad could be helpful.

"Disney just made 'Inside Out 2,' that's doing really well, everyone's talking about it, and I would ask my sister do you think Disney's doing good or is Disney doing bad?  She'd say they're doing good, and I would say, well, that means that the stock is doing good, and we would go look at the stock, and if it's up, I'll be like, she's right, or it's down, like, let's go look at the news and figure out why," Broughton said.

Seitz said one method parents can use to help young children not only learn how money is earned but also be reminded of its limits is to provide them with an allowance for completing chores.

"Every family is different, and every family has different ways to manage that. Some families prefer not to tie chores and allowance. And there are still great money lessons that can be learned in that way. The Greenlight app is set up so that parents can make that distinction, whichever way they can, either, have money earned for chores or only for special odd jobs above and beyond what their kind of daily expectations might be," Seitz said.

Although there has been legislative progress in ensuring financial literacy is incorporated into a child's K-12 educational experience in the US, it's an ongoing process. Until that happens, parents can foster financial literacy skills in their children and connect them with other resources at home.

Discussing money can be tricky at any age, but the earlier children start learning about money, the easier it becomes to talk about.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Wildfire smoke, a major source of air pollution, is linked to severe health issues including heart attacks, strokes and lung diseases like asthma.

Fire season brings other health hazards, too. When the skies darken with smoke and communities face potential evacuation and destruction, it can profoundly affect ones mental state.

What is contributing to this feeling of smoke-season stress  or fire brain as its sometimes called? Chronic and persistent smoke events are a relatively new phenomenon, and the body of research on their mental health effects is nascent.

Nonetheless, research is beginning to reveal some connections that can help us better understand how these complex interactions impact our wellbeing, and inform potential solutions.

How does wildfire smoke affect the brain?

Air pollution affects our brain health and cognitive function. Researchers have found the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution released by wildfires is even more toxic than air pollution from other sources. One possible reason is the high level of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) mixed with various levels of other known neurotoxic particles that can be found in smoke, including heavy metals. These particles can reach the brain via the olfactory nerve and pass through the bloodbrain barrier, or modulate the nervous system, leading to brain inflammation and oxidative stress.

Can wildfire smoke affect cognitive function?

Neuroinflammation caused by wildfire smoke increases the risk of developing Alzheimers, dementia and Parkinsons disease. Recent research from the Universities of Washington and Pennsylvania found that the odds of a new dementia diagnosis increased about 21% for every 1 microgram increase in the concentration of wildfire particles a person inhales, compared with a 3% increased risk for every 3 microgram jump in non-wildfire particles.

Additional research from the University of New Mexico suggests that sudden increases in air pollution, as occur during wildfires, create surges of inflammation in the hippocampus region of the brain, responsible for memory and learning. These can linger for over a month after exposure.

That may explain why, in addition to several studies finding a correlation between smoke exposure and poorer concentration and decision making skills while playing digital games and sports, smoky days also appear linked to poorer academic performance.

In a 2020 study, UC San Diego economist and researcher Josh Graff Zivin examined how smoky air affected students taking Chinas national college entrance exam over a six year period. Graff Zivin specifically studied smoke created by routine, controlled agricultural fires, removing potential anxiety related to possible evacuations as a factor from the study.

His team found that when there was a significant increase in fires upwind compared to downwind during the exam, students total scores dropped by 0.6 points on average. This decrease in scores also slightly reduced students likelihood of getting into top-tier universities. A US study from 2022 estimated that smoke exposure in 2016 reduced students future earnings by nearly $1.7bn (or $111 per student).

We dont exactly know whats happening to the brain during heavy smoke days, says Graff Zivin. But we know its bad.

The cardiovascular effects of smoke inhalation may affect our bodys ability to properly oxygenate our brains. Just having impaired lung function could lead to cognitive impairment, he says.

But more research is required to fully understand the extent to which smoky days affect cognitive performance. Nor do we yet fully understand the cumulative impact of being exposed to smoke for weeks or months each year, Graff Zivin adds.

Whats the relationship between smoky days and depression?

Its not exactly clear how smoke may physiologically impact the brain in ways that contribute to feelings of depression, but researchers believe cognitive impairment  like that which Graff Zivin observed among test-taking students  can be a factor in low mood. Researchers also increasingly believe brain inflammation plays a role in producing depression, raising the possibility that brain inflammation triggered by wildfire smoke could contribute to mood disorders.

The stress and trauma of a wildfire event can also affect mental health. UC San Diego School of Medicine psychiatrist Dr Jyoti Mishra studied people both directly and indirectly exposed to 2018s Camp fire, one year after it tore through Butte county, California. Perhaps unsurprisingly, she found that those who faced significant personal loss or trauma during the fires exhibited the highest levels of PTSD, anxiety and depression. Yet even community members who were not directly impacted by the fire reported increased neurocognitive issues, and struggled with depression and anxiety.

Can wildfires cause environment-related anxiety?

Some of the dread people living close to wildfires feel is related to seeing landscapes change, environments change, and worrying about both the present and the future, says Dr Warren Dodd, an associate professor in the School of Public Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo.

Dodd has interviewed residents of Canadas north-west territories who experienced what was, in 2014, a record fire season. They reported feelings of anger, stress and hopelessness about the threats posed by climate change.

In addition to the distress of witnessing ones environment change rapidly  also known as solastalgia  the people Dodd interviewed reported that stopping their summertime outdoor and land-based activities to shelter indoors had negative consequences for their mental health.

What can we do about the mental health effects of wildfires?

Curtailing the physiological effects of wildfire smoke on our brains involves many of the same behaviors as protecting the rest of our bodies from air pollution: using an air purifier at home, thoroughly cleaning living spaces to remove particulate matter that gets inside, wearing a mask outdoors and minimizing unnecessary time spent outside.

When it comes to mitigating the psychological harms of smoky days, local authorities can spring into action. Making community resources available for free during wildfires is one way to help people alleviate some of the isolation and anxiety felt when sheltering indoors. For instance, Dodd notes that the city of Yellowknife waived fees for its indoor recreation center during the fire, allowing people to get some exercise and see their neighbors without having to be outside.

Resilience is important for communities to focus on, says Mishra  not just after a climate disaster, but also preemptively. When we studied the Camp fire folks, we found that there are certainly some traits, such as greater mindfulness and better physical activity that can contribute to a sense of resilience, she says. But what mattered most was the strength of peoples family and social connections.

Related: As wildfires rage, what is the smoke doing to our health and bodies?

People who feel supported and like theres a sense of community around you are best protected in terms of their mental health outcomes, she says. A stronger sense of community can be an antidote for loneliness and a tool for climate resilience, Mishra notes. For those experiencing PTSD, therapy for underlying neurocognitive issues can assist with recovery.

As ever, prevention is key: reducing greenhouse gas emissions can slow global warming and help curb forest fires and their devastating, complex consequences.

Graff Zivin believes that governments must bear in mind the economic repercussions of diminished productivity and cognitive function, and invest more heavily in wildfire prevention and forest health. A healthy forest maintained with prescribed burns can lead to less intense wildfires, he says. We rarely talk about the value of having healthy forests.
Firefighters rescue kittens from blast-damaged building in Kherson after hearing meowing by chance  video

Kherson emergency workers have rescued four kittens from the basement of a damaged building

Firefighters have rescued four kittens from beneath a building damaged by an explosion in the city of Kherson. They happened to hear the kittens meowing after putting out the fire.

Source: Ukraine's State Emergency Service (SES) in Kherson Oblast

Details: A Russian shell struck a household in the city overnight, causing some firewood to burst into flames. Firefighters arrived to extinguish the blaze.

They quickly finished their work  then heard meowing coming from the basement of a damaged building nearby.

"There were both non-residential buildings and a house on the territory of this household. The owners were not there.

The firefighters heard meowing from the basement of one of the damaged buildings. They climbed in through a window and found some kittens. The mother cat was near the building at the time," Oksana Ulianova, a spokeswoman for the SES press service in Kherson Oblast, told UP. Ukrainska Pravda Zhyttia.

The firefighters took the kittens to a nearby barn, where they were reunited with their mother.

Background: A cat was rescued from the rubble of a house in the city of Myrnohrad in Donetsk Oblast after it had saved its owner by meowing loudly just before a Russian bombardment.

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First Alert Weather: Debby tracks away and our local weather gets back to summer

The First Alert Weather Team is still tracking Debby as it moves away from out local area.

WATCH THE FORECAST | DOWNLOAD THE APPS

Debby is located just off the coast of South Carolina. Its just close enough to Jacksonville and the surrounding areas to throw us some spotty heavy showers.

The best chance for rain this evening will be near and east of Highway 301.

Thursdays going to be a hot one -- some spots may hit 100 degrees.

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Storm coverage doesnt look great on Thursday afternoon. The best chance for rain will be in NE Florida but everyone wont see rain.

Saturday and Sunday bring a better chance for storms.

The Jaguars preseason game looks okay in terms of rain but there should be storms leading up to it.

Back to School on Monday morning looks fine.

Tropics

Debby is swirling off the coast of the Carolinas. It will start moving northward on Wednesday night.

The forecast is for Debby to weaken to a remnant low on Thursday over the Appalachians in Virginia.

Elsewhere... theres an area to watch in the Western Caribbean with some disorganized storms. This area is not expected to develop or threaten the U.S.

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Mike Buresh | Garrett Bedenbaugh | Corey Simma | Trevor Gibbs

Long-range forecast models hint at potential trouble near the Bahamas next week.

The tropics in general should remain active the next few weeks -- the peak of hurricane season is September 10.

LISTEN: Mike Buresh All the Weather, All the Time Podcast

Heres a look at your First Alert 7-Day Forecast:

TONIGHT: Isolated Shower, Partly Cloudy & Warm. Low: 78

TOMORROW: Partly Sunny & HOT, A Few Storms. High: 98 (Record: 100  1956)

FRI: Partly Sunny & Hot, A Few Storms. 76/96

SAT: Partly Cloudy, Scattered Storms. 76/94

SUN: Partly Cloudy, Scattered Storms. 76/94

MON: Partly Sunny, A Few Storms. 74/93

TUE: Partly Sunny, A Few Storms. 74/92

WED: Partly Sunny, A Few Storms. 76/93

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Midlands schools cancel classes during first week because of Tropical Storm Debby

Midlands school districts are adjusting their plans and have canceled classes because of Tropical Storm Debby.

Thursday was supposed to be the first day of school for Lexington-Richland 5 and Richland 1, but the districts announced that schools will be closed, as the National Weather Service predicts more rain and potential flooding in the Columbia area.

We are looking forward to starting this new school year, but the safety of our students and staff is always School District Fives highest priority, LR5 officials said Wednesday afternoon in a news release.

In addition to the schools, all LR5 offices will be closed, and the FIVE virtual program and all afterschool activities also have been canceled, officials in the Irmo-Chapin district said.

Making Thursday an e-learning day was not an option for the first day of school, according to LR5 officials.

Now, plans have shifted to make Friday the first day of classes at LR5 schools, and Oct. 11 will be used as a severe weather make-up day to compensate for Thursday, officials said.

We appreciate your patience and understanding. Any changes to normal school operations will be made using the school districts automated telephone system, the district website, social media and local media outlets, officials said.

Richland 1 also will close all of its schools and offices, and all afterschool activities and events have been canceled, officials said. Richland 1 includes downtown Columbia, Lower Richland and the St. Andrews area.

Additionally, officials said that all Richland 1 schools will operate on a two-hour delay start Friday, which will now be the first day of classes.

Richland 2 in northeast Richland County has also canceled afterschool activities, events and programs including child care, adult education classes and other extracurriculars.

We will continue to monitor the weather and offer updates as we learn more about Tropical Storm Debby, Richland 2 spokesperson Ishmael Tate said in a news release.

Changes for other school districts

Some other Midlands school districts have also adjusted their plans for Thursday.

 Lexington 4 in the Gaston-Swansea area, which held its first day of classes Tuesday, will close schools on Thursday because of the severe weather predicted in the forecast.

Additional rain combined with saturated soils and moderate winds has increased the potential for hazardous travel conditions, Lexington 4 officials said Wednesday.

Thursdays scheduled school day will be moved to an e-learning day later in the year, and all other activities are also canceled, according to the district.

 Lexington 3 in Batesburg-Leesville, which is in its second week of classes, said it is also shifting to an e-learning day on Thursday.

Concerns about the storm causing dangerous driving conditions were the determining factor in the switch.

 Lexington 1, which held its first day of classes Wednesday, said all schools and offices will be closed on Thursday, and all afterschool activities and sports are also canceled.

We hope everyone had a great first day of school! While we would love to see your smiling faces tomorrow, safety comes first, Lexington 1 officials said. Major concerns (for Thursday) include downed trees, downed power lines and flooded roads, causing rural road conditions to deteriorate and become unsafe for our buses and families to travel.

Shifting to an e-learning is not an option for Thursday, and Lexington 1 said no decision has been made yet for Friday.

 Lexington 2 officials said that the decision has been made to close all schools and offices in the Cayce-West Columbia district and cancel all afterschool activities on Thursday.

We are making daily decisions about school schedules for Thursday and Friday ... given Tropical Storm Debbys path and potential impacts for our area, Lexington 2 officials said. We expect to communicate the school schedule for (Fridays classes) on Thursday afternoon.

 Orangeburg County School District officials said Thursday would be another e-learning day for its students. After holding the first day of classes Monday, the past two days have been e-learning days for Orangeburg County students.

All afterschool programs and athletic events, including practices and games, are canceled, according to Orangeburg County officials.

These decisions are made with the utmost concern for the safety of our students, employees, community, and our novice student drivers, Orangeburg County officials said.

 Sumter School District is also switching to an e-learning day on Thursday.

On e-learning days, Sumter officials said all schools and office buildings are closed, and all activities, including athletic events and field trips, are canceled.

Because Sumter schools are an approved e-learning district, these days will not have to be made up, officials said.
Look up in the evening sky this month and the full moon may appear larger than usual. That's because August's full moon will also be 2024's first full supermoon.

Here's what to know about the sturgeon moon, peaking mid-afternoon on Aug. 19.

Moon cycle

Set to be a blue moon and this year's first supermoon, the sturgeon moon will appear bigger and brighter in the evening sky Monday, Aug. 19. This follows July's full moon, the buck moon. The moon is currently in its waxing crescent phase at 3% illumination.

What is a supermoon?

A supermoon occurs when a full or new moon falls during the closest point in the moon's orbit to Earth, according to NASA. The full moon can appear up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter at its closest point in the orbit.

What is a blue moon?

When there are four full moons in a season, the third is considered a blue moon, according to Space.com. August's sturgeon moon will be the third of four full moons this summer. Known as a seasonal blue moon, this doesn't mean the moon appears blue in color. Blue moons typically occur every two to three years.

More: Northern lights forecast to be visible Wednesday Thursday nights in Michigan

More: Moonless nights, dark sky parks, more: What to know to see Milky Way galaxy this summer

How did the sturgeon moon get its name?

The name sturgeon moon comes from the giant lake sturgeon, a fish historically caught in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain during this part of summer, according to the Farmer's Almanac. Alternate names for the August full moon include flying up moon to the Cree, harvest moon to the Dakota, ricing moon to the Anishinaabe, the mountain shadows moon to the Tlingit, and the black cherries moon to the Assiniboine.

Peak viewing

Look southeast after sunset on Monday, Aug. 19 to catch a glimpse of the sturgeon moon. Clear skies will ensure optimal viewing, so keep an eye on the weather forecast.

The full moon will peak in mid-afternoon at 2:26 p.m. but will appear full between Aug. 18-20, rising above the horizon the evening of Aug. 19.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: August 19 moon is full moon, supermoon, sturgeon moon, blue moon
Arizona GOP activist Lorraine Pellegrino, one of the 11 fake electors facing criminal charges for attempting to overturn the 2020 election, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge in order to avoid facing prosecution for nine felonies. Mugshot courtesy Maricopa County Sheriff's Office

The first of Arizonas 11 fake electors has pleaded guilty of attempting to undermine the will of voters in the state in 2020 to keep former President Donald Trump in office, even though voters in Arizona  and nationwide  rejected him and instead chose Joe Biden.

Conservative activist Lorraine Pellegrino, who previously served as the president of Ahwatukee Republican Women, entered a guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of filing a false instrument, according to Richie Taylor, a spokesman for the Arizona Attorney Generals Office.

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All of the defendants in the case, including the 11 fake electors, were charged with nine felonies, including fraud, conspiracy and forgery. In December of 2020, just a month after the election, Pellegrino was one of the group of Republicans who signed a certificate falsely claiming that Trump won the state. President Joe Biden won Arizona by 10,457 votes.

That false certificate was ignored, and Congress went on to certify Biden as the next president, using the votes cast by Arizonas actual electors, during a ceremony that was delayed by the Jan. 6 insurrection.

In April, Arizona AG Kris Mayes announced the indictment of 18 defendants involved in the Grand Canyon States fake electors case, including state lawmakers, lawyers connected to Trump, and two former Trump aides. Trump himself has not been indicted in the state, referred to instead in court documents as an unindicted co-conspirator.

Some defendants in the case have since launched a lawsuit attempting to overturn their indictments by convincing a court that the case seeks to stifle political speech. But Mayes office, which directed the grand jury not to indict Trump, argues that not charging the former president proves it wasnt a political act.

Earlier this week, former Trump campaign attorney Jenna Ellis cut a deal with prosecutors to drop the charges against her in exchange for cooperation in the case.

Arizona isnt the only state in which Trump sought to pressure elected officials and others to illegally declare victory on his behalf. Prosecutors in Michigan, Nevada, Georgia and Wisconsin have also filed criminal charges against their own fake electors.

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The first thing you noticed was the line.

For security reasons, you cant just order a ride-share to drop you off at the door to an event venue where the Vice President of the United States  or any candidate with Secret Service protection  is speaking.

Police generally set up a perimeter a few blocks out and keep anyone but authorized persons and vehicles from getting close to the event site. Tuesdays campaign rally with Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz was no different.

But upon alighting from my vehicle, I couldnt help but notice a blocks-long, snaking queue that would have made any of my British colleagues feel right at home.

Hundreds  possibly a thousand  people were lined up, moving slowly towards tents with metal detectors in the muggy Philadelphia heat. Meanwhile, misting fans and dutiful campaign staffers passing out water kept the queued-up fans from getting heatstroke as a consequence of their enthusiasm for the newly-minted Democratic ticket.

It was far more people than Id seen in line for any event put on by a Democratic presidential candidate since the pandemic put an end to normal campaigning in March 2020. Bigger than the drive-in rallies hosted by President Joe Bidens victorious 2020 campaign, and far bigger than any event he or his party had put on during the 15 months between when he announced his bid for re-election and when he shocked the world by standing aside in favor of Vice President Harris.

By the time your correspondent reached the press section of the Temple University-owned arena, the top deck of seating behind where Harris and Walz were set to speak was almost full. There were still several hours to go until the evenings program was due to start.

It wasnt long before the arena was literally packed to the rafters with an energy that hasnt been present at any Democratic event in nearly a decade. It was a multiracial, multigenerational crowd that mirrored the scenes I witnessed during Donald Trumps first campaign for the presidency, when he was a political newcomer taking on the establishment in the form of Hillary Clinton.

And the energy displayed by that crowd was something I hadnt seen since 2012, when then-president Barack Obama and then-vice president Biden took on Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan for a chance at a second term.

Dancing, cheering, chanting and engaging in call-and-response with the program of speakers  including Democratic National Committee Chair Jamie Harrison, Pennsylvania Senators John Fetterman and Bob Casey, and Keystone State Governor Josh Shapiro  ensued. Shapiro rallied the crowd with an Obama-esque stemwinder that ended with him introducing Harris, who strode onto the stage with her running-mate as the decibel-meter on my smartwatch hit 100.

But it was Walz who got the loudest applause of the evening with a seemingly off-the-cuff quip about debating his Republican opposite number, Ohio Senator JD Vance  if only Vance would get off the couch for it.

To those in the know, it was a slightly off-color reference to a viral internet hoax about Vance engaging in coitus with his living room furniture. A dumb joke, but one the 12,000 people appeared to be in on. They roared to the tune of 107 decibels.

As the rally ended and both journalists and stage crew began to pack up their gear, one line from Walz stuck out at me. Not the couch gag, but something he said to Harris just after she introduced him. He thanked her for putting joy back into politics.

Ive been to my share of Trump rallies. The former presidents rhetoric has always been dark, conspiratorial, and a bit on the ugly side. But the people who follow him from rally to rally are more like rock-and-roll fans who follow their favorite band than the dangerous cultists portrayed by some of my compatriots in the media.

When Trump was the new kid on the block facing off against Clinton, there was always a happy carnival atmosphere to his events. Now, theres an undercurrent of menace, a latent anger there, perhaps attributable to his insistence on repeating his false claim that the 2020 race was stolen from him, or telling his followers that they  Democrats  are coming after them and their families.

But Harris and Walz  and their rapid ascent to the top of the Democratic Party  appear to have unleased something in Democrats. The same happiness that I saw at those 2015 and 2016 Trump rallies.

Back then, he was the underdog. Now, she is. And what I saw on Tuesday is any harbinger of anything, we could see another underdog victory on election night this November.
All five dead in helicopter crash in Nepal

A photo received from RSS Nepal  National News Agency (RSS) shows the site of a helicopter crash, belonging to the Air Dynasty at Suryachaur area in Nuwakot where at least four people were killed. Sunil Sharma/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

All five people aboard a helicopter belonging to Air Dynasty are confirmed dead following a crash in central Nepal on Wednesday.

The aircraft crashed near Shivapuri National Park while en route from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, police said.

The deceased include a Nepalese pilot and four Chinese nationals, one of whom was a woman, according to Nepalese police spokesperson Dan Bahadur Karki. "Our team has reached the crash site and confirmed that there are no survivors. The bodies have been collected," Karki told dpa.

Syabrubesi, located about 80 kilometres north-west of Kathmandu near the Tibetan border, is a key entry point for trekkers heading to the Langtang region.

Nepal's challenging mountainous terrain and rapidly changing weather conditions frequently contribute to aircraft accidents. These issues, combined with poor aviation safety standards, have resulted in numerous incidents.

In July, a plane crash in Kathmandu claimed 18 lives.

In January 2023, a Yeti Airlines plane crashed in Pokhara, killing 72 people.

A photo received from RSS Nepal  National News Agency (RSS) shows the site of a helicopter crash, belonging to the Air Dynasty at Suryachaur area in Nuwakot where at least four people were killed. Sunil Sharma/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
More than half of the 26 state prisons in Michigan have a vacancy rate of 18% or higher. Four of the prisons in the Upper Peninsula are over 30%. The vacancy rate refers to the percentage of officers needed to be regularly safely staffed.

UPPER PENINSULA  Five of six Upper Peninsula prisons are so understaffed they have called the National Guard for help, and have yet to hear back.

"There's six state prisons in the Upper Peninsula, and five of the six are in extremely rough shape," said Michigan Department of Corrections President Byron Osborn.

For years, the prison system in the state of Michigan has struggled to maintain safe staffing levels. More than half of the 26 state prisons in Michigan have a vacancy rate of 18% or higher. Four of the prisons in the Upper Peninsula are over 30%. The vacancy rate refers to the percentage of officers needed to be regularly safely staffed.

Osborn believes the issue stems from corrections officers slowly losing their benefits packages. They have moved from a pension system to a 401k.

"We're about six or seven years into a significant staffing crisis with corrections officers in the state prison system. We're running between 900 and 1,000 officers short across the state," said Osborn. "What we're finding is that over the past six or seven years, people are just opting not to come to work at the prison because there are now enough other jobs that have similar pay and benefits."

Since 2022, wages for corrections officers in Michigan have increased, but according to Osborn, this has not had a positive impact on hiring because this increase applied to all state employees and there is still little incentive to become a corrections officer.

Understaffing leads to mandatory overtime, which often breaks the 32-hour rule which states that an officer should not be required to work an overtime shift if they already worked an overtime shift in the last 32 hours.

"The 32-hour rule guideline is violated every single day. These folks are working just insane amounts of overtime and losing time from their families," said Osborn. "They're struggling to accomplish things we take for granted, routine tasks like getting your grass mowed or getting to the bank."

Officials said a lack of staffing also leads to prisons having to cut down on some services and practices. In some cases, prisons have been forced to severely limit yard and exercise time, which in turn leads to more outbursts and fights as prisoners become restless and anxious.

Reports released from the Chippewa County Correctional Facility, Baraga Correctional Facility and Marquette Branch Prison detail some of the incidents that are growing in frequency over the past few months.

In the maximum-security correctional facility in Baraga, the vacancy rate is 34%. Between July 1-18, there were 544 overtime shifts, 135 of which broke the 32-hour rule, and 17 incidents within the prison.

These incidents range from going into lockdown for no other reason than there aren't enough officers on staff to let people out of their cells to fights, which sometimes had to be broken up with tear gas and tasers.

"For the most part, the general public has absolutely no idea what goes on behind the fences, on almost a daily basis inside the prisons," said Osborn. "Over the course of two weeks we saw assault on staff, prisoners fighting prisoners, assaulting each other and other disturbances."

At this same time there were 350 closed officer positions across all three shifts, meaning that there wasnt an officer stationed at a required position inside the prison.

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Reports from the maximum security prison in Marquette also show an increase in assaults committed on guards, vandalism and an assault on the facility warden.

"Officers that are there are forced to work multiple 16-hour shifts per week, and in many cases on back-to-back days. That's having a terrible toll on them, physically and mentally," said Osborn. "It's having a significant impact on the operation and the safety of the prison itself."

On July 3, the Michigan Corrections Organization sent a private letter to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer asking for help from the National Guard to staff the prisons on a temporary basis.

After three weeks of no reply, the organization called for help again. This time, several Michigan politicians added their voice to the mix.

State Sen. Ed McBroom and state representatives Dave Prestin and Greg Markkanen asked Michigan Department of Corrections Director Heidi Washington to take direct action to address the staffing issues.

On Aug. 1, Rep. Neil Friske joined in the discussion with a press release that called for Gov. Whitmer to declare a state of emergency. On Aug. 2, State Sen. John Damoose called for the Senate to allow for corrections officers to participate in the state police pension fund.

So far there has been no response from Gov. Whitmer or the state Senate.

Due to the extensive training required to become a corrections officer, even if the prisons receive the help they are asking for it would still be six months or longer until they have the staffing numbers they need to operate properly.

"The first step is just getting our elected officials to decide they're going to take some action," said Osborn.

 Contact Brendan Wiesner: BWiesner@Sooeveningnews.com

This article originally appeared on The Sault News: Five of six U.P. prisons are critically understaffed
Flights canceled, drivers trapped on NYC roads after massive storm dumps 4 inches of rain on city

Flash flooding left several drivers stranded in their cars in New York City on Tuesday.

Violent storms ripped through the Big Apple on Tuesday and dumped as much as four inches of rain in a matter of hours, causing dangerous flash flooding that stranded drivers in their vehicles.

A handful of people had to be rescued from their cars after rising water trapped them on the Henry Hudson Parkway and Major Deegan Expressway, New York Citys Office of Emergency Management told The Post.

Videos posted on social media showed drivers plowing through significant flooding on some of the citys major roadways during rush hour.

Another clip showed responders removing drivers and their vehicles after they became trapped in the water on the northbound Major Deegan near the Van Cortlandt Park exit.

Tuesdays rains dumped as much as four inches in parts of New York City. Getty Images

As the storm pushed on, the OEM received 136 calls to 311 for abandoned vehicles by 9 p.m. Tuesday, as well as 68 calls for sewer backups, 55 calls for catch basin complaints and 16 calls for street flooding, the office said.

A large tree limb cracked and fell on top of cars on East 8th Street between Ditmas and Webster avenues in Brooklyn. William C Lopez/New York Post

Cars plowed through the flooding in Queens on Tuesday night. Wayne Carrington

The FDNY also responded to numerous calls throughout the day about the storms impact, but no injuries were reported, officials said.

While just over an inch of rain was recorded in Central Park, the Bronxs City Island recorded 4.4 inches and Port Washington in Long Island also saw more than 4 inches of rain, Fox News meteorologist Christopher Tate told The Post.

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning in Manhattan and the Bronx until 9:45 p.m. Tuesday. City officials urged those living in basement apartments to move to higher ground.

One clip posted online showed water pouring down the stairwell inside a building on 228th Street in the Bronx.

The deluge was partially a result of Tropical Storm Debby, which made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in Florida on Monday, killing at least five people, before it was downgraded to a tropical storm.

City officials urged those living in basement apartments to move to higher ground. Wayne Carrington

This is a very specific type of rain event that occurs with certain tropical systems called a predecessor rain event where what were getting is a combination of two factors, Tate explained to The Post.

There is a stationary front that has kind of stalled out loosely draped over the metro and out towards Long Island and thats given us some summer influence for those [typical] summer showers  but at the same time, moisture from Tropical Storm Debby is being ushered up the coast and is eventually meeting with that stalled boundary, the meteorologist said.

People walk through the rain in Manhattan as a severe storm moves through the area in the early evening on Aug. 6. Getty Images

Parts of the Bronx and Long Island saw more than 4 inches of rain. Getty Images

So in essence youve got moisture coming in from multiple places and its compounding, unfortunately, right over the city, he said.

The inclement weather also wreaked havoc at New York Citys airports, where thousands of travelers experienced cancellations and delays.

A third of all departures  184 flights  were canceled at LaGuardia International Airport. Another 119 flights were delayed, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware.

Yall Im on JetBlue flight floating around NY because JFK wont let us land. Now they said all the NY airports are shut down and theyre taking us to Boston! mind you we were supposed to be home Sunday!! https://t.co/NswWAjYL9N  nickname is nikki (@nikkibobbi_) August 6, 2024

As the storm pushed on, the OEM received 136 calls to 311 for abandoned vehicles by 9 p.m. Tuesday. Wayne Carrington

At JFK Airport, 137 flights were canceled and 204 were delayed. At Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, 134 flights were canceled and 149 flights delayed.

The tri-state area will likely see more showers beginning Wednesday afternoon before the leftovers of Tropical Storm Debby whack the region from Thursday into the weekend, Tate said.
A flight carrying almost 200 passengers was met by emergency services after the copilot fainted in midair, report says

A flight carrying almost 200 passengers was met by emergency services after the copilot fainted in midair, report says

An easyJet flight was met by paramedics after a pilot felt unwell during the flight.

The Airbus A320 from London Luton to Lisbon, which was reported to have 193 people on board, landed safely.

The incident underscores the importance of having two pilots.

An easyJet plane was met by paramedics after a pilot was taken unwell during the flight, an airline spokesperson confirmed.

The Airbus A320 was traveling from London Luton Airport to Lisbon on Saturday.

CNN Portugal reported that the copilot fainted before the plane landed safely. It added that the copilot was stabilized and then taken to the hospital.

There were 193 people on board, the report said.

"easyJet can confirm that the flight EZY2459 from Luton to Lisbon was met by the paramedics upon landing due to a pilot member feeling unwell," an airline spokesperson said in a statement shared with Business Insider.

"The captain landed the flight routinely in line with procedures and passengers disembarked normally," they added. "At no point was the safety of the flight compromised."

"The safety and welfare of passengers and crew is easyJet's highest priority."

Saturday's incident highlights the benefits of having two pilots at a time when the idea of single-pilot operations is being discussed and faces strong criticism from pilots over safety concerns.

Numerous pilot unions have joined forces as part of the Safety Starts With Two coalition, which says that "two pilots at the controls remains the most important safety features of an aircraft."

Last year, a Southwest Airlines pilot who fell ill was replaced by a pilot from another airline who happened to be a passenger. And last December, an Air Transat pilot suffered an "uncontrollable nosebleed" and was replaced by an off-duty captain.

Read the original article on Business Insider
As Tropical Storm Debby strengthened off the coastline of the Carolinas on Wednesday, its impacts are starting to hit close to home as flight delays and cancellations mount and the storm begins its trek toward North Jersey.

Coupled with threats of severe flooding thanks to a set of cold fronts in the region, Debby's remnants are expected to hit North Jersey by Friday, just in time to wreak havoc on those heading to the airport or coming home from a last minute summer vacation.

United, Delta and American airlines saw the highest cancellations and delays among major carriers.

Over 2,500 flights were delayed and over 430 were canceled across the nation early Wednesday afternoon, numbers that had continue to rise since the morning, according flight tracking website FlightAware. Planes flying into Newark Liberty International Airport were the most impacted, with 49 canceled flights and 73 delays. For travelers heading out of Newark, 37 flights had been canceled and an additional 52 were delayed, according to FlightAware. Travelers departing LaGuardia on Wednesday were feeling the greatest impacts among the nation's airports, with 48 canceled flights and 73 delayed, impacting 21% of departing planes.

What if my flight is canceled?

As cancellations and delays continued to build, with likely no end in sight due to Debby's expected New Jersey arrival, so will challenges for those needing to rebook their flights. Airports urge customers to check their airline carrier's status on their websites.

Several airlines are issuing waivers related to the weather, offering impacted travelers a no-penalty option to change their flights. American Airlines, which was reporting the greatest number of delays on Wednesday afternoon, is issuing waivers for those flying into and out of Newark, LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports. Here are other major airlines issuing waivers, each with their own set of policies:

Can I get a refund for a canceled flight?

Do you get a refund if your flight is canceled by the airline? Yes. All airlines must offer customers a refund if their flights are canceled for any reason. Customers may be entitled to additional compensation if a cancellation is within the airline's control. Weather is outside of airline control.

Track your flight

You can check out your airline carrier's website or head to FlightAware to check your flight status.

Debby impact to North Jersey might be quick

Tropical Storm Debby was forecast on Wednesday afternoon to "restrengthen a bit" and re-curve toward the Southeast before making landfall along the South Carolina coastal area by the evening, according to the National Weather Service.

Debby's remnants are expected to impact North Jersey by Friday, but the system is now forecast to lift out of the Northeast rather quickly on Saturday, the NWS said in their latest forecast discussion. The forecast for several areas in North Jersey calls for rain on Friday and overnight, with skies potentially clearing by mid-day Saturday.

Email: lcomstock@njherald.com; Twitter: @LoriComstockNJH or on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on New Jersey Herald: Tropical Storm Debby causing impacts at NJ, NY airports
Flirt or flight? How humans are scaring fish off finding a mate

Scientists studying squaretail grouper have found that the increasing presence of fishermen in the water is changing their behavior from flirty to flighty.

A team led by scientists at Lancaster University in the UK found that the fish are becoming more scared of humans and spending less time on courting behavior, with potentially important impacts on population levels, according to a statement from the university published Wednesday.

Study lead author Rucha Karkarey, senior research associate at Lancaster University, told CNN that researchers have been working at the same site in Indias Lakshadweep archipelago, north of the Maldives, for 10 years.

Fishing at spawning aggregation sites - Rucha Karkarey

Around five years ago, the area started to be fished more intensively, and researchers began noticing more fearful behavior in the squaretail grouper around two years ago, said Karkarey.

This coincides with a shift from hook and line fishing from boats to fishers spearfishing while in the water, she said.

Being fearful of predators is an evolutionary mechanism that helps animals survive predation, said Karkarey.

But now theyve started recognising humans as predators, she added. Its a natural response to an unnatural predator.

This impacts reproduction due to the fact that groupers only reproduce at spawning events, when fish from a certain area congregate to find a mate at a specific location a handful of times per year.

Humans have responded to this behavior by targeting these events in order to catch more fish, which have started to engage less in courting behavior out of fear.

Interestingly, it is the fitter male fish who are most vulnerable to being caught, as they are more likely to engage in risky courting behavior to find a mate.

This includes defending a certain territory by refusing to cede it to a potential love rival, or a human fisher, or returning to a threatened territory more quickly than less fit male fish, explained Karkarey.

Unfortunately, female squaretail grouper select mates based on these qualities, which means that more fishing not only impacts the population by removing fitter fish from the sea, but also by reducing the ability of those left to reproduce as they are less fit as mates and more fearful of humans.

Over the long term, not only are the fish declining because they are being fished, theyre also reproducing less and less at these events, said Karkarey.

In many populations, these spawning events are the only time that groupers will mate, she added.

It can have quite a huge repercussion for the population, said Karkarey.

While other research has suggested that groupers can adapt to human interference by aggregating at different times or at different locations, Karkarey said that this has not been observed at this site.

Karkarey highlights the fact that fishing has intensified in recent years in the region.

Fishing can have these really important indirect effects, she said, adding that she hopes the study will act as a jumping off point for further research into how much fishing a squaretail grouper population can withstand without altering the behavior of the fish.

Karkarey also wants to investigate whether these fearful fish are finding other ways to mate despite the behavioral changes researchers have observed.

What we really want to know is how they are impacting reproductive output, she said.

The study was published in the journal Biology Letters.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
North Jersey faced a flooded highway and many roads underwater in the wake of a major storm, days away from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby reaching the region.

Route 17 northbound was closed due to flooding in Hasbrouck Heights as of about 2:30 p.m. Wednesday just south of Route 46, per the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The highway closure marked just one of the problems the region faced in the wake of the storm.

Flooding in North Jersey towns

Flooding at Lafayette Avenue and Glendale Drive in Hillsdale Aug. 6, 2024.

People needed to be rescued from the floodwaters in multiple towns, including Hillsdale and Hackensack. In Hillsdale a driver purportedly drove around a barricade and got their car stuck at Lafayette Avenue and Glendale Drive, according to the local fire department.

Nick Bond, a spokesperson for Hackensack, said Tuesday night's storms caused major flooding in some areas. Water dispersed quickly in most areas with only two roadways remaining flooded as of this morning: South Newman Street between Essex Street and Lodi Street, and Lodi Street between Green Street and Kenneth Street, Bond said. Additionally, we retract the earlier statement made by one of our departments that the city was nearly 50% flooded. This was incorrect, and the actual flooding was significantly less extensive."

People at the Best Buy in Woodland Park were told to stay inside Tuesday night until water receded, police said. Elsewhere in Woodland Park, two women drove into floodwaters and needed to be rescued, said Mayor Tracy Kallert.

"People need to heed the barricades and not drive through flooded streets," Kallert said. "They put themselves and our first responders in danger."

Hoboken also saw some issues due to storm drains being accidentally paved over. Mayor Ravi Bhalla posted to social media that it was "completely unacceptable." Hudson County Executive Craig Guy said the paving project itself was needed and that any mistakes either have been or will be fixed.

Some towns saw more than 4 inches of rain Tuesday night, including 4.45 inches in Cedar Grove and 3.13 inches in Little Falls, per Bob Ziff of the National Weather Observers.

Check back for more on this developing story.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Flooding in New Jersey closes highway and strands drivers
Image source: The Motley Fool.

Emergent BioSolutions (NYSE: EBS)

Q2 2024 Earnings Call

Aug 06, 2024, 5:00 p.m. ET

Contents:

Prepared Remarks

Questions and Answers

Call Participants

Prepared Remarks:





Operator

Good afternoon, everyone. I'm the operator for today's call. Thank you for joining today as Emergent discusses their operational and financial results for the second Quarter 2024. As is customary, today's call is open to all participants and the call is being recorded and is copyrighted by Emergent BioSolutions.

In addition to today's press release, there is a series of slides accompanying this webcast available to all webcast participants. Turning to Slide 3. During today's call, Emergent may make projections and other forward-looking statements related to their business, future events, their prospects, or future performance. These forward-looking statements are based on their current intentions, beliefs, and expectations regarding future events.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this conference call. And as except as required by law, Emergent does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement to reflect new information, event, or circumstances. Investors should consider this cautionary statement as well as the risk factors identified in Emergent's periodic reports filed with the SEC when evaluating their forward-looking statements. During today's call, Emergent may also discuss certain non-GAAP financial measures that involve adjustments to GAAP figures in order to provide greater transparency regarding Emergent's operating performance.

Please refer to the tables found in today's press release. Turning to Slide 4. The agenda for today's call will include Joe Papa, president and chief executive officer, who will comment on the multiyear plan update, key product highlights, and future catalysts; Rich Lindahl, EVP and chief financial officer, who will speak to the current state of the company, financials for second quarter, as well as 2024 full-year guidance, including guidance for the third quarter. This will be followed by Q&A.

Finally, and for the benefit of those who will be listening to the replay of this webcast, this call was held and recorded on August 6, 2024. Since then, Emergent may have made announcements related to topics discussed during today's call. And with that, I would now like to turn the call over to Joe Papa for opening remarks. Joe?

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Hello, everyone, and thank you for joining us today to discuss our second-quarter results and our 2024 financial outlook. I am joined today by Rich Lindahl, our chief financial officer. Following my opening remarks, Rich will detail our Quarter 2 performance, provide guidance for the third quarter as well as our full year guidance. I will then review our future growth drivers, providing summarizing thoughts on our multiyear plan, and then we'll open it up for Q&A.

Story continues

First, I would like to start by thanking our Emergent team members who have been hard at work executing on our multiyear plan to stabilize, turn around and transform the business. It has been a great team effort in the first half of this year. And specifically, our Quarter 2 efforts enabled us to exceed our Quarter 2 revenue guidance without a significant ACAM2000 shipment that we were able to recognize in early July. I appreciate the dedication of our team, especially their support for our mission and our values.

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Turning to Slide 6. I'd like to review our progress against our multiyear plan focused on stabilizing Emergent. Based on the first-half performance, we are raising the midpoint of our 2024 revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance, which Rich will walk through in great detail. While there are some one-time items in Q2 numbers, we made great progress against our plan, including making a significant reduction to our debt as well as operating performance and working capital improvements.

We focused on our product core business drivers and delivered for our customers and patients. We created a customer-focused, leaner, more flexible organization, and we streamlined our site network, and finally, leveraging our product and internal capabilities to support future growth. Turning to Slide 7. I'd like to call several activities that have been critical during the initial stabilization phase of our multiyear plan.

We successfully amended our credit agreement, expanding the runway to execute on our operational plans. Following our May 1 restructuring announcement and after the transaction Bora closes for our Camden site this quarter, combined, we will have reduced our workforce by approximately 50% since January 2024. We will also have a total of approximately $110 million in expense savings from these combined efforts. In July, we resolved our contract dispute with Janssen and received a $50 million payment from the settlement.

We successfully completed an FDA inspection at the Camden facility in July, which is a full GMP surveillance inspection of our biologic products. This underscores our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and product quality. I thank the team again for all these great efforts. Now, on Slide 8, I'll walk through a series of strategic actions taken in the second quarter to reduce our total quantum of debt this year.

On our previous earning calls, we discussed divesting certain products and assets. To date, we have achieved a $75 million divestment of RSDL to SERB Pharmaceuticals, $30 million from the sale of our Camden facility to Bora Pharmaceuticals, which is expected to close this month and will result in a 350-person head count reduction. The net proceeds from these two transactions is expected to more than satisfy the Junior Capital Raise requirement under Emergent's amended credit facility. We also sold an empty, underutilized warehouse at our Canton site for $7 million.

We received $50 million from Janssen following our contract dispute settlement, and we expect $10 million in the third quarter related to Bavarian Nordic milestone and anticipate another $20 million by year-end. Also, we have generated operational cash flow following our May business update and have improved working capital to contribute to debt paydown. Rich will have more comments on that. Turning to our product business slide on Slide 9.

We continue to make progress delivering on our commitments. I'll start with the key highlights around NARCAN Nasal Spray. We are continuing to invest in the expansion of NARCAN Nasal Spray, which is more crucial than ever as the opioid crisis continues. Last year, more than 100,000 lives were lost to a drug overdose, of which nearly eight in 10 were caused by an opioid or synthetic opioid.

This is an unacceptable number of American lives lost every year. As the leading naloxone product, we are determined to increase access points of NARCAN to help get the life-saving product into the hands of more people. And in Canada, where the opioid-related deaths continue to increase, we are working closely with Health Canada to distribute convenience kits containing NARCAN, which are critical to first responders and people in a position to help save the life. We also believe our efforts to broaden access and increase awareness are contributing to the impact we're seeing across several hard-hit areas.

For example, states like New Jersey reported 1,007 suspected drug deaths in the first six months of 2024, but that's down 26% from last year. And Maine had an expected 12% decrease in opioid-related overdose deaths. While it's not promising to see the number of opioid deaths decreasing, unfortunately, opioid deaths still remain high and we believe that expanding access to NARCAN is needed. Annually, we expect to deliver NARCAN to about 18,000 individual locations across the U.S.

and Canada through our NARCANDirect program. We strive to serve as the best-in-class provider to all of our public interest customers. In fact, we announced just earlier today a new distribution center in Nevada. This new facility allows Emergent to further meet the increased demand for nalaxone by now having faster, more efficient delivery for NARCAN to all of our customers.

We continue to tackle the many barriers to increase consumer access. By offering online availability through Amazon and pharmacy websites, we are creating an easy access avenue for the people to have easy way to obtain delivered right at their doorstep. To date, we have distributed boxes of NARCAN to 32,000 retailers. OTC status for NARCAN has also enabled our business-to-business and workplace efforts.

We have secured five major businesses that have ordered NARCAN, including United States Gypsum, Copper, and a leading financial services company, just to name a few. We launched NARCAN.com/Workplace, which enables businesses to order NARCAN and have it shipped to their offices and work sites. We continue to engage with new partners like the National Safety Council to educate and reach businesses around the importance of workplace safety. And just last month, the American Medical Association shared their support to put naloxone next to defibrillator in public places.

To pull on this thread, we understand that approximately 1,700 lives are saved by the defibrillators each year and the device costs about $18 on average. We also believe putting naloxone, which is a fraction of the defibrillator cost alongside this life-saving measure could help tens of thousands of lives lost to opiate overdose each year. Our country is facing a public health crisis that has bipartisan support and continuous federal and state funding helps increase access to NARCAN for first responders. Just last week, a study in Lancet reported that fatal opioid overdoses contributed to a lower American life expectancy by nearly a year.

The burden of these deaths and life expectancy on years of life lost is due to the high burden among younger adults. We clearly have more work to do here. In a new survey we conducted, it was found that younger generations aged 18 to 34 and those in high school level education were less likely to be aware naloxone can reverse the effects of fentanyl, putting these already vulnerable population at further risk. We will continue to strive to meet and respond to our customers' need to ensure we maintain our leadership position.

Turning to our medical countermeasures portfolio on Slide 10. In addition to opioid overdose epidemic, we maintain a leadership position in addressing leading public health threats, including anthrax, smallpox, botulism, and Ebola. We are optimistic about the potential of our MCM products, including TEMBEXA and Ebanga, and their ability to contribute to our future growth. This includes over $250 million in contract modifications with the U.S.

government for our MCM business, including a $30 million order to supply CYFENDUS, $99.9 million to supply ACAM2000, and a new contract option totaling $122.9 million to supply U.S. government VIGIV and BAT. We believe that these milestones reaffirm our place as a trusted biodefense partner and demonstrate the strength of our total portfolio. Contracts also indicate continued runway for potential future procurement.

In fact, we expect to receive approval from the FDA under sBLA to expand ACAM for Mpox by the end of the quarter. We have a strong line of sight to future procurement levels for our existing portfolio and look forward to pursuing additional opportunities for contract awards in the second half of the year. Next, on Slide 11 is a look at our streamlined footprint of sites in Lansing, Michigan, and Winnipeg. This is driven by our previously announced decision to scale back our bio services work while maintaining our ability to manufacture and deliver our products to customers.

We are winding down our efforts at Bayview and Rockville sites, further reducing our manufacturing footprint and our working capital. As mentioned, we sold our empty facility in Canton, Massachusetts for $7 million, which is demonstrative of our efforts to explore strategic alternatives for sites that are not linked to our core capabilities. In summary, on Slide 12, we have a diverse portfolio of products linked to our manufacturing network that we expect will continue to meet the demands, both in U.S. and abroad.

I'll now hand it over to Rich to review our financials.

Richard S. Lindahl -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer

Thanks, Joe, and good afternoon, everyone. We appreciate you joining the call today. As Joe has just discussed, we're making significant progress against our near-term priorities of stabilizing the business and strengthening our financial foundation. Our report today reflects several key proof points.

We delivered solid second-quarter results with continued momentum of NARCAN, shipments of anthrax, and an international sale of ACAM2000. We received over $250 million of contract modifications to continue supplying CYFENDUS, ACAM2000, VIGIV, and BAT to the U.S. government. We announced a confidential settlement agreement with Janssen Pharmaceuticals, which resulted in a $50 million payment to Emergent on July 31.

We announced $112 million in asset sales. We entered into a definitive agreement to divest our Baltimore-Camden facility to Bora Pharmaceuticals for $30 million, sold an underutilized warehouse at our Canton facility for $7 million, and sold our chemical decontamination product, RSDL to SERB Pharmaceuticals for $75 million. These transactions, once fully completed, will satisfy the capital raise requirement in our amended credit facility. We received notification that the EMA accepted the Bavarian Nordic submission for the chikungunya vaccine, which was part of the travel health divestiture in 2023.

This acceptance triggers the first milestone payment of $10 million, which we expect to receive in the third quarter. We'll go into further detail on the balance sheet, but the influx of cash from these items is expected to provide approximately $200 million that can be used for debt repayment this year. Since the beginning of 2023, we have also announced actions to reduce annual expenses by roughly $0.25 billion. This reinforces our commitment to improving our overall financial foundation and setting the business up for stronger profitability and shareholder value going forward.

And finally, we are again raising the midpoint of our revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance for 2024. Turning to our results. We had another strong quarter with revenue above our previously provided guidance. As indicated on Slide 14, highlights in the second quarter include total revenues of $255 million, a decrease versus the prior year due to timing of the U.S.

government order for ACAM. Total segment adjusted gross margin of 26% versus 43% in the prior year, primarily due to the Janssen settlement agreement, the write-down of related assets and other one-time charges, and adjusted EBITDA in the quarter of negative $10 million, a reduction versus the prior year due to the timing of U.S. government procurements and approximately $28 million of onetime charges. Turning to Slide 15, you'll note there are a number of non-recurring items in our results for the quarter, many of which are added back, as seen in the non-GAAP reconciliation tables.

A common theme here is that as part of our efforts to stabilize, turn around, and transform the business, we have taken several decisions that improve our future profitability, but result in short-term charges. In particular, our actions to reduce our site footprint and significantly deemphasize our Bioservices business required us to evaluate the related asset values, which in turn led to the impairments and write-offs shown on the slide. We also resolved several legacy issues and now move ahead with the uncertainty of those matters behind us. Diving deeper into quarterly revenues, important items on Slide 16 include NARCAN sales of $120 million, which reflects continued robust demand for our opioid overdose reversal product.

Compared to the prior year, we had a slightly unfavorable price volume mix in the U.S. public interest channel, partially offset by higher sales of over-the-counter NARCAN. Anthrax MCM sales of $39 million, an increase of $18 million versus the prior year, driven by timing of CYFENDUS and BioThrax sales. Smallpox MCM sales of $18 million, representing the international order of ACAM2000 in the second quarter.

The decline year over year is due to the timing of the U.S. government procurement for ACAM2000, which we delivered in early July. Other product sales of $7 million, a decrease of $13 million versus the prior year, primarily related to BAT and RSDL sales timing. And total Bioservices revenues of $65 million, which includes the $50 million attributed to the arbitration settlement from Janssen.

The remaining Bioservices revenue in the quarter was primarily related to our Camden facility. Turning to operating expenses on Slide 17. Cost of commercial product sales in the quarter was $53 million, influenced by the continued strong sales of NARCAN. Cost of MCM product sales in the quarter was $31 million, driven by sales of CYFENDUS and BioThrax.

Cost of Bioservices, up $212 million, reflecting the asset write-down related to the Janssen settlement agreement, offset by a decrease in overhead costs at our Maryland facilities. R&D expense of $33 million, which includes project termination costs and restructuring costs associated with the May 1 announcement. Outside of those items, our core R&D costs are currently focused on the funded Ebanga development program. And SG&A spend of $86 million, including restructuring costs offset by lower employee and marketing-related expenses.

With that, let's move to Slide 18 and review segment performance during the quarter. In the commercial segment, revenues were $120 million, comprised entirely of NARCAN, and segment adjusted gross margin was $67 million, or 56%. In the MCM segment, revenues were $63 million, driven primarily by anthrax and an international sale of ACAM2000. Segment adjusted gross margin was $35 million, or 55%.

As for the services segment, revenues were $65 million, and segment adjusted gross margin was negative $36 million. I'll now take a moment to summarize our 2024 year-to-date performance as shown on Slide 19. First half revenue was $555 million, up 11% versus prior year, driven by MCM and Bioservices. Year-to-date adjusted gross margin was $213 million, or 39%, reflecting our prior efforts to reduce costs as well as MCM sales timing, and first-half EBITDA was $57 million, an improvement of roughly $100 million versus the prior year.

Turning to Slide 20. We ended the second quarter with $70 million in cash and $83 million of total liquidity, including availability under our revolving credit facility. And as of June 30, 2024, our net debt position was $794 million, a roughly $40 million reduction versus the first quarter. Net working capital was $380 million at June 30, a $53 million improvement versus the prior quarter, and $71 million lower than the second quarter of 2023.

We remain focused on continuing to optimize our working capital position to free up capital for debt repayment. Turning to 2024 guidance, please see Slide 21. While our efforts to improve operating performance will not happen immediately, we are making significant progress. As announced in our press release this evening, we're updating our outlook for the full year 2024.

For both revenue and profitability, as we did in May, we are raising the midpoint of our revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance. Full-year guidance is as follows and the details are shown on Slide 29 in the appendix. Total revenues of $1.05 billion to $1.125 billion. Commercial product sales of $450 million to $480 million.

We continue to see strong demand for NARCAN in the U.S. public interest, Canadian and OTC channels. Having said that, we're taking a more conservative view on 2024 given developments in the competitive environment. MCM product sales of $455 million to $490 million.

Since our last report on May 1, we received a $250 million award for CYFENDUS, ACAM, BAT, and VIGIV. We now have a large portion of our MCM revenue committed for 2024. Services segment revenue of $120 million to $130 million, an increase versus our prior guidance due to the impact of the Janssen settlement. Shifting to profitability metrics.

We're forecasting adjusted EBITDA of $140 million to $180 million. The increase at the midpoint reflects the improved visibility of our MCM revenues as well as our continued focus on operating expenses. It's important to note that this guidance reflects the sale of RSDL, which we completed last week, but does not yet reflect the impact of the upcoming Camden facility sale, as that transaction has not yet closed. Having said that, there is currently $15 million to $20 million of revenue and negative $5 million to $10 million of adjusted EBITDA related to Camden in our forecast for the second half of the year.

For the full year of 2024, we're forecasting total segment adjusted gross margin of 42% to 45%. Shifting to the third quarter, we're forecasting revenue in a range of $265 million to $315 million. That's all for the financial update. I'll now turn the call back over to Joe for some final thoughts.

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Thank you, Rich. Our hardworking team at Emergent made significant progress executing on the strategic operational changes to stabilize our financial position and position us well for the future. This is critical to our turnaround. But as we look forward, we see meaningful opportunities for Emergent growth drivers that have the potential to impact lives around the world.

Turning to Slide No. 23, I'd like to focus on the future growth drivers for our organization based on the potential expansion of our in-line products. This will look like international expansion and line extensions of our current products, strategic partnerships that leverage our own capabilities or identify unique public-private partnership, increased focus on health -- public health preparedness and funding, and willingness to address the opioid epidemic. In closing, our transformation will take time.

It's not linear. But that said, I'm pleased with the progress our team has made and the value created over the past month, and importantly, the debt paydown that we have achieved. We are planning to finish out the year strong by paying down a significant amount of additional debt while we prepare to enter our turnaround phase and move toward an exciting future. With that, operator, let's open up the line for questions.

Questions & Answers:





Operator

Certainly. [Operator instructions] Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster. And one moment for our first question. Our question will be coming from Jessica Fye of JPMorgan.

Your line is open.

Unknown speaker -- JPMorgan Chase and Company -- Analyst

Hey, this is Nick on for Jess. Thanks for taking our questions. First, with the decision to expand NARCAN distribution capabilities with the new center in Nevada, can you kind of talk about the long-term growth opportunity for NARCAN in both OTC as well as the PIP market? Kind of how are you thinking about the overall market opportunity across OTC and PIP? What do you see as the current and future growth driver there? And maybe, could you comment on potential peak sales for NARCAN?

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Sure. You got a lot of questions there. I'm also joined by Paul Williams, who's here, who can help us to address these questions. This is Joe Papa.

I'll start. Paul, feel free to add in. I think, first and foremost, what we're most excited about is that this is a real public health problem and that we've got to solve it. We've got to help solve it.

We believe NARCAN has shown some good progress in solving this. The fact I'd point to that there was a 3% reduction in total amount of deaths in the United States last year, but that still means there's a lot more to do when you're talking about still remaining 100,000 deaths. We think it's going to get solved by a number of things. Number one, in terms of our ability to continue to expand access to NARCAN, we believe that the amount of funding that will go toward the public interest market from some of the opioid drug settlements from the big pharma companies will come into this category, and that will help the states expand their educational program, but also the purchase and the ability to make NARCAN more available to all the markets.

I think it's, first and foremost, one of the big items for us. Beyond that, we clearly are working very closely with the states, and we believe that our NARCANDirect programs are embedded into many of these public interest markets, and that's going to allow us, we believe, to continue to be a very important provider of NARCAN to all those states. So, I think that those are probably the first and foremost things I would add. We clearly believe the brand itself is a very important part of it.

But Paul, other things you want to add to answer that question?

Paul Williams -- Vice President of Sales, North America

Yeah. Maybe, Joe, I think a couple of things. One is, I don't think you can understate the emphasis coming out of the White House. And we recently attended the Office of National Drug Control Policy Naloxone Roundtable Discussion, where really talking about -- we're barely just starting to see a decrease in deaths, but 100,000 deaths is way too much.

And we've got to solve that, one, through the states. We've started to address that by expanding access with over-the-counter, which is going to allow us, I think, to expand into businesses. Obviously, we're online and on retail shelves and continue to drive the level of awareness and understanding around fentanyl poisoning, around accidental overdose, as well as in the addiction space. And I think all of those point to we've got a long way to go before NARCAN before we actually start seeing a plateau in the market and the demand for naloxone.

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

And I think what Paul is saying is, one, I think you have to comment on in the world we live in today. But the U.S. has bipartisan support for solving this problem. I mean, there's not often we can get bipartisan support, but we do have a bipartisan support for solving the opioid epidemic that we see out there right now.

And I think that's an important part of it. And I think one doesn't have to look any further than the Lancet article that came out a week ago that says, the overall impact of opioid-related death is reducing the life expectancy of the United States population by almost a year, just because of opioid. That just says volumes about how important this issue is and volumes about why we believe NARCAN can make a real difference. So, I think that's what's going to help us with the growth.

We clearly believe our distribution capabilities is why we added the Nevada distribution center and we announced that today. It just makes -- allows us to be faster and more customer responsive, which is what we're trying to do for the future, create a leaner, customer-focused organization that has more flexibility. So, I think all those things are the reason why we see NARCAN as being a great opportunity for the future.

Unknown speaker -- JPMorgan Chase and Company -- Analyst

Great. And with that in mind, a few months back, a competitor announced the distribution agreement with the State of California to supply OTC NARCAN. How are you contemplating that with your current outlook for your OTC product? And are you seeing any other trends among other states?

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Sure. We're working very closely. We still work very closely with the State of California to be clear. California has some very aggressive opioid reduction targets, which obviously we support the importance of that.

We continue to supply products to the State of California. Once again, having a distribution center in Nevada makes it easier for us to deliver to the state of California. And we also believe that, as I said before, the NARCANDirect program is embedded into the public service process because we make it easier for them to essentially have a one-stop-shop for getting access to our products. So, we're going to continue to work with the State of California, just like we work with the other states.

We believe the brand NARCAN is important. We believe our manufacturing capacity and capabilities is important. And we believe our distribution capability with 18,000 locations around the United States are all very important reasons why we're going to be successful with the State of California, but for other states as well. And that's how we're approaching this in terms of we are the leader.

We're going to continue to try to improve the overall access. And as that total market expands, we believe we're going to get our fair share of that market expansion as well.

Unknown speaker -- JPMorgan Chase and Company -- Analyst

Great. And maybe could you provide some additional detail on some of the steps you're taking to improve long-term margins and maybe provide some color on what you see as an achievable margin profile for the current business?

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Are you asking specifically about NARCAN or just total business, so I understand just the --

Unknown speaker -- JPMorgan Chase and Company -- Analyst

Total business but NARCAN as well, if you want to comment on that specifically.

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Yeah. Well, let me start with NARCAN because that's where the bases of your questions are. We are clearly working with our partners on the contract manufacturing of our product and continuing to work to reduce the total cost of goods sold for our product. We have a good understanding of what we can do and we already have made some progress this year.

We expect to -- and we've targeted even more progress for the future. But we're working very closely to look at those specific vehicles in terms of where the cost is by what's the cost for the raw material, what's the cost for the actual nasal device and then also the assembly, etc. Looking at all avenues for NARCAN to bring down that cost. I think on the rest of our business, Rich, probably you may want to make some comments.

But I think one of the things we're doing, looking at overall gross margin, is just creating a leaner, more efficient network in terms of our manufacturing site. We believe that will give us significant reductions in our cost of goods sold just as we become more efficient at each site. As we talked about during the call, we're going to shut down the Rockville, we're shutting down the Bayview as we divest the Camden site, as we sell the Canton site, all those action steps we believe are going to help us with our overall gross margin improvement. And I think that's the way we'll mostly get to those relative savings over time.

Obviously, each site -- the remaining Lansing site, the remaining Winnipeg site will become much more important and obviously more, we believe, efficient as we go forward.

Richard S. Lindahl -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer

Yeah. I think that's right. And I think -- so the major driver is really the cost that we've taken out in terms of the manufacturing site network so that we have less unutilized capacity or excess capacity in the network. That's really helping cost of goods sold as we come through the end of this year and into next year.

And then, we're being very disciplined about our R&D spending as we go forward. And then finally, on the SG&A side, we are working very hard to reduce our overall level of SG&A, which again will flow through as we come out of this year into next year.

Unknown speaker -- JPMorgan Chase and Company -- Analyst

OK. Maybe just the last one from us then. Could you provide some color on when we should expect an option for TEMBEXA and Ebanga?

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

So, I think on Ebanga, that is still a few years out into the future, based on the nature of the contract, which really had several years of development and commercialization -- or scale-up, I should say, followed by procurement options following that. On TEMBEXA, we continue to have conversations with the United States Government about the timing and magnitude of the next option exercise. We don't have anything to report today, but we are working hard to maintain the continuity of supply of that product as we move forward.

Unknown speaker -- JPMorgan Chase and Company -- Analyst

Great. Thanks so much.

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Thank you.

Operator

[Operator instructions] I'm showing no further questions. I would now like to turn the call back to Joe for closing remarks.

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Well, thank you again, everyone, for joining us today. As I mentioned at the onset, I'd like to thank our Emergent team for all the great work during the quarter to help us to achieve the milestones we've achieved. Importantly, we look forward to finishing the second half of the year strong, continuing the debt paydown that we're already adding to that debt paydown, of course, and then, importantly, continue to improve our overall operational performance for the business and to reduce debt by the working capital improvement. So, all those things will be important parts of our future.

We look forward to any additional questions as we have a chance to go out and talk to all of you. Thank you. Have a great day, everyone.

Operator

Thank you, all. And with that, ladies and gentlemen, we now conclude the call. Thank you for your participation. Please note an archived version of today's webcast as well as a PDF version of the slides used during today's call will be available later today and accessible through the Investors landing page on the company's website.

[Operator signoff]

Duration: 0 minutes

Call participants:

Joe Papa -- President and Chief Executive Officer

Richard S. Lindahl -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer

Unknown speaker -- JPMorgan Chase and Company -- Analyst

Paul Williams -- Vice President of Sales, North America

Rich Lindahl -- Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer

More EBS analysis

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This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability.

The Motley Fool recommends Emergent BioSolutions. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Emergent BioSolutions (EBS) Q2 2024 Earnings Call Transcript was originally published by The Motley Fool
NEW JERSEY (PIX11)  Flooding has left areas of New Jersey partially submerged Wednesday morning after storms moved through the area.

Nearly half of Hackensack was underwater, according to the citys fire department. Residents were encouraged to avoid flooded waters and stay off the roads.

More Local News

Parts of Bergen County got more than five inches of rain.

In Paterson, Mayor Andre Sayegh said the city was prepared to shut down 30 streets if necessary.

We have two major concerns: flash flooding, because there are areas in Paterson that are prone to flash flooding, and power outages, so well be in constant communication with PSE&G, our provider, all night; probably all week as well, he said. We have barricades to close off all those streets that are prone to flooding.

The FAA issued a ground stop at Newark Liberty International Airport on Tuesday, but that was since lifted as of Wednesday morning.

Officials also warned that things could get worse by the end of the week as Tropical Storm Debby is expected in the area as soon as Friday.

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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Florida CFO: My Safe Florida Home can bring insurance rate relief, Patronis says in Venice

VENICE  Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis told members of South County Tiger Bay recently that insurance rate relief is coming but a key to seeking that relief is to follow the steps outlined in the My Safe Florida Home Program to improve the integrity of ones home in the event of a hurricane.

Those thoughts may take on added relevance for area homeowners after of this regions brush with Hurricane Debby, which dumped a historic level of rainfall on north Sarasota County as it passed in the Gulf as a tropical storm on Sunday and early Monday. The storm intensified before making landfall in north Florida.

The My Safe Florida Home Program  which started in 2006 and was later brought back in 2022  provides homeowners a wind-mitigation survey and up to $10,000 in grant funds to fortify homes against storms  what Patronis referred to as protecting the bubble.

About $185 million was earmarked for the program by the Florida Legislature this year.

The most recent round of grant funds allotted this year have been awarded but Patronis stressed that savings generated by that hurricane hardening can be considerable.

The more you protect the bubble  and call your house a bubble  the more impenetrable that bubble is when a new storm comes knocking at your door, Patronis said.

Once those upgrades are made by program-approved contractors and documented, insurance companies must, by state law, lower a homeowners insurance premium.

How My Safe Florida Home can work

To illustrate the impact of that process Patronis  who did not apply for a My Safe Florida Home grant but did follow the steps  used his own experience following 2022's Hurricane Ian, which generated 775,000 insurance claims, with insurers paying out roughly $21 million.

In an 18-month period Patronis said he saw his premium skyrocket from $2,300 to $9,500 a year.

Florida Department of Financial Services Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis addressed the South County Tiger Bay Club July 31, prior to attending a fundraiser in Wellen Park for Danny Nix, a candidate for the State House District 75 seat.

After receiving his windstorm mitigation Patronis said he ordered hurricane windows in May 2023 that were installed that summer.

His bill peaked that Novembera at $9,500, after which he installed hurricane doors, and had his roof inspected for compliance.

Those changes were documented in a new inspection on Dec. 28, 2023.

On Jan. 22 of this year, Patronis said his carrier sent him a check for $4,500, reflecting a reduction of his new rate to $5,000 a year.

And those improvements are mine forever, Patronis said at the Tiger Bay event July 31.

A My Safe Florida Home pilot project for condominium owners will start later this year with a $30 million pool of grant funds.

Program funds generated by hurricane repair sales

As Patronis explained it, the My Safe Florida Home program is funded by revenue generated from sales tax collected through sales related to hurricane repairs.

He said Hurricane Ian generated $1.55 billion in non-expected revenue, through purchases related to Hurricane Ian recovery.

We dont budget for storm money but I feel were morally obligated to return that money back to the citizens of Florida; thats pain and suffering money, Patronis said People were hurting because of that storm.

Since the program was brought back in 2022, Patronis said almost $650 million in grants were given to homeowners seeking to harden their homes,

The sales tax exemptions on storm windows and doors is offset by hurricane sales-related collections, too.

Patronis was at the South County Tiger Bay Club meeting last week prior to attending a fundraiser for Danny Nix, the Republican candidate for the State House District 75 seat once held by House Majority Leader Michael Grant.

Danny Nix, a Republican candidate for the State House District 75 seat, introduced Florida Department of Financial Services Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis at a July 31 meeting of the South County Tiger Bay Club.

Related: Why are Insurance premiums in Florida rising faster than anywhere in the country?

Patronis also lauded the impact of laws enacted in recent years by the Legislature to curb claims inflated by unscrupulous people after disasters.

He highlighted the Citizens Insurance case against Coral Gables attorney Scott Strems in what Citizens characterized as fraudulent claims based on inflated appraisals brought to him by friendly public adjusters.

The 2020 case, which involved 5,000 claims dating back to 2014, was ultimately settled in May, 2022 for $ 1 million, according to a Citizens news release.

Strems was ultimately disbarred by the Florida Supreme Court in December 2022.

With that settlement they blew up his business model, Patronis said.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Patronis talks insurance rate relief days before Debby impacts area
A Monroe County sheriffs deputy used her departments computer database to help her boyfriend evade the law as he engaged in dealing drugs in the Florida Keys, according to her arrest warrant.

Deputy Jennifer Ketcham, 40, not only gave her boyfriend information helping him stay out of areas where her colleagues were operating, she also ran license plate numbers for him when he asked if certain unmarked cars were undercover vehicles, according to the July 31 report.

Investigators reviewing the 11,845 text messages between the couple also discovered that in November, he asked Ketcham to send a photograph of a detective who was surveilling a house on Roberta Street in Key West. Ketcham found a picture of the cop on Facebook and sent it to him, the warrant states.

Ketcham remains in county jail on a bond of $610,000. She is charged with 19 felony counts of misuse of law enforcement computers, computer networks and electronic devices. The sheriffs office placed her on administrative leave without pay pending an internal affairs investigation.

I am committed to keeping this community informed of significant events that occur in this agency  good and bad, Sheriff Rick Ramsay said in a statement.

Ketcham was hired on June 2, 2021, and her annual salary is $66,646, said Adam Linhardt, sheriffs office spokesman. Her attorney, Dustin Hunter, did not immediately respond to the Miami Heralds request for comment.

Ketcham began seeing the man last summer when he was 17 years old, according to the warrant. In text messages to a colleague regarding their relationship, she referred to him as #1 and moved him into her apartment at the Sunset Marina in Key West, the report states.

Those conversations detail she knew he was involved in dealing drugs, and Ketcham and her colleague discuss him making trips to deliver and pick up drugs in the Redland agriculture district in South Miami-Dade, according to the warrant.

Ketcham was an acting supervisor while she was dating the man, and, her colleague told investigators that her squad knew to stay away from certain avenues on Stock Island due to their relationship, Detective David Fernandez wrote in the warrant.

Ketcham was so dedicated to her boyfriend, she arrested his mother at his request on June 11, 2023, according to the report. She detailed the arrest in a text message to her colleague the next day.

He called me and told me where she would be and what car she would be driving. I served a warrant and she got a false name charge, Ketcham texted, according to the warrant. Thats literally between he and I.

The Herald called a cellphone number listed in the warrant as belonging to Ketchams boyfriend, but the call went to voicemail.

The cops got that phone after serving a joint search warrant with Key West police, the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations and the IRS on his mothers house on Seidenburg Avenue in Key West in July. Thats where they found several conversations in which Ketcham appeared to be running interference for her boyfriend by accessing the sheriffs office database.

For instance, on June 9, 2023, she texted him: Our Narc unit is out on Stock Island right now.

On Sept. 6, 2023, she told him of a drug raid at a home on Big Coppitt Key, according to the report.

On Sept. 8, 2023, she told him deputies stopped a man in a car and that person agreed to be a confidential informant for the police.

And, on Dec. 22, 2023, she texted her boyfriend to warn him about another drug raid by police on a house on United Street in Key West, the report states.

When detectives asked Ketcham on June 20 if she was aware her boyfriend was a drug dealer, she told them she had a gut feeling he was involved in criminal activities, but did not have any evidence to support this, Fernandez wrote.
Florida man charged in connection to bank robbery in Crystal City

ARLINGTON COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  The Arlington County Police Department said a man was arrested in connection to a bank robbery that took place in Crystal City on Monday morning.

Police said on Aug. 5 at about 11:40 a.m., they were dispatched to the Bank of America located at 1425 S. Eads St. for the report of an armed robbery.

New additions to add spark to Mervin Jackson Park in Leesburg

When officers arrived at the scene, they learned the suspect had gone into the bank, passed a note to the teller demanding money and hinted at having a weapon.

The suspect then left the bank with an undetermined amount of money.

Police said no weapon was seen or shown. There were also no reported injuries.

The suspect was identified and subsequently taken into custody in D.C. on Aug. 6.

Police said 63-year-old Dave Jobson of Florida has been charged with Bank Robbery. He is being held in D.C. pending extradition to Virginia.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call Arlington police at 703-228-4180 or ACPDTipline@arlingtonva.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 DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Florida Mom Accused of Killing Police Officer in Ambush Was Allegedly Targeting Her Neighbors: Police

Police allege Julie Sulpizio accused her neighbors of pedophilia and espoused religious conspiracy theories

Lake County Sheriff's Office (2) Julie Sulpizio, left, and Bradley Michael Link

A Florida woman who authorities claim was motivated by conspiracy theories was arrested after the death of a sheriff deputy, which took place in what authorities allege was an "ambush" orchestrated by the woman's family that injured two other deputies.

Julie Sulpizio is facing charges of murder and multiple counts of attempted murder after officials say Lake County Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Michael Link was fatally shot at a home in Eustis, Fla., on Friday, Aug. 2.

Injured in the shooting were deputies Stefano Gargano and Harold Howell, Lake County authorities said during a press conference streamed on Facebook.

Sheriff Peyton Grinnell spoke at the press conference and gave a recounting of the events that led up to the shooting.

Police received a 911 call reporting that a woman, identified as Sulpizio, was trespassing on the callers property and allegedly becoming violent.

"The complainant stated she was acting religious, accusing them of being sinners, and [saying that] she knows 'what they did,'" Grinnell said. "They identified Julie Sulpizio as their neighbor. But Julie states that she is 'Helen, under God's will.'"

In an exchange with a responding deputy, Sulpizio allegedly accused her neighbors of being pedophiles, according to Grinnell, and again claimed to be Helen and that Julie is in heaven.

Before deputies arrived, Sulpizio allegedly wanted her neighbors to walk in front of her into her house, Grinnell said, adding that the neighbors didnt trust her. Sulpizio also allegedly told the neighbors that her husband, Michael Sulpizio, was her God.

After arresting Sulpizio and backup was called, Grinnell said deputies walked over to search her home to perform a welfare check on her husband and children. Two dead dogs were allegedly discovered in the house, according to Grinnell.

Link and Howell attempted to enter the home through the back door, after deputies unsuccessfully tried to make contact with the residents inside the home, Grinnell says.

Grinnell alleged that Michael Sulpizio is believed to have fired several shots, hitting Link in the back and striking Howell in the wrist. Howell and other deputies retreated out of the home, but Link was unable to move out of the home before he was shot more times, Grinnell alleged.

More deputies were then called to the scene, as responders attempted to negotiate with the homes occupants.

"My king will kill all of you., Julie allegedly said during this stage, according to Grinnell.

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.

Gargano, who was part of a tactical team, was struck with multiple bullets through a wall. Grinnell said he is stable, while Howell is expected to make a full recovery.

Michael Sulpizio, and two daughters, Savannah and Cheyenne Sulpizio all died of self-inflicted gunshot wounds, according to Grinnell.

It is not immediately clear if Julie Sulpizio has entered a plea or retained an attorney.

A GoFundMe started to raise money for Links wife has raised over $140,000.

Grinnell called the officers who responded to the scene heroes.



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Read the original article on People.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida student caught on camera battering a teachers aide received a years-long prison sentence on Tuesday.

A Flagler County judge sentenced Brendan Depa, 18, to five years in prison after a full day in court, according to a report from NBC affiliate WESH.

Depa, a student with special needs, pled no contest after video showed him shoving and punching a paraprofessional, knocking her unconscious after she took away his video game. His mother, Leanne Depa, said Depa has autism and mental health issues for which electronics are a trigger.

I think he needs help, and I think he needs treatment. But I dont think he needs to be put away in a prison where hes going to be taken advantage of or harmed, Leanne Depa said.





Depas attorney requested that he would be tried as a minor because he was 17 at the time of the incident, but the court cited a history of violence as the reason he was tried in adult court.

Joan Naydich, the paraprofessional, said she now suffers from PTSD and anxiety.

Like everything was taken away from me that morning, Naydich told the court, according to WESH. At 10 oclock that morning. Everything was taken away. My life will never be what it was before.

Depa can appeal his sentence in writing, according to the judge. He is ordered to have no contact with Naydich. The judge also ordered the Florida Department of Corrections to conduct a full mental health assessment and develop a care plan for 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 WFLA.
The leaders at Floridas 12 public universities have been directed to do a statewide review of all college course materials containing keywords pertaining to religious and political issues in the Middle East with the goal of tagging content that may contain antisemitic material or anti-Israeli bias.

The directive comes a month after state officials were made aware that an online course at Florida International University had offered students a test with a multiple choice question that was deemed antisemitic, Ray Rodrigues, the chancellor of the state university system, said in an interview with the Miami Herald on Tuesday evening.

What prompted this was a question that said Jews invented terrorism, Rodrigues said.

In response, Rodrigues said each university is being asked to organize a faculty committee to sift through curriculum materials, such as textbooks and tests, in college courses for either antisemitic content or perceived anti-Israel bias. Rodrigues said faculty committees should err on the side of caution when reviewing the content for potential bias.

If they find anything on either front they need to notify the Board of Governors so we can determine what the appropriate action is depending on what they find, Rodrigues said.

Some Florida professors are already raising concerns about the new directive, saying it could potentially suppress open discussion of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in public higher education institutions.

This represents yet another effort to water down education in Florida and keep important information from our students, said Martha Schoolman, an English professor at Florida International University who is also Jewish.

These concerns come as Gov. Ron DeSantis has increasingly pushed to disrupt the states education establishment to challenge what he perceives to be a left-leaning ideology in higher education.

During his administration, state officials have taken steps to eliminate spending on initiatives that promote diversity, equity and inclusion, remove sociology from the states general education requirements and transform the New College of Florida into a bastion of conservatism, among other things.

DeSantis, who has vowed to be the most pro-Israel governor in America, also ordered state universities to disband campus groups with ties to the national Students for Justice in Palestine organization amid nationwide student protests over the Israel-Hamas war.

READ MORE: DeSantis continues to mold higher education in Florida by signing three new bills

The new directive explained

In an email he sent out Friday, Rodrigues directed state university leaders to flag and collect data on any course that contains the following keywords: Israel, Israeli, Palestine, Palestinian, Middle East, Zionism, Zionist, Judaism, Jewish or Jews.

This process will ensure that all universities are reviewing the same courses, and nothing falls through the cracks, Rodrigues explained in the email.

Each university will be required to initiate a faculty review of the course materials, to be completed by the conclusion of the fall semester, according to the email. Committees tasked with reviewing the materials are being told focus on courses on terrorism, Middle Eastern studies, religion and government. The materials will still be made available to students and faculty during the fall semester while the review is ongoing, Rodrigues told the Herald.

Ray Rodrigues, the chancellor of Floridas university system, said the textbook Terrorism and Homeland Security used by an online course at Florida International University included an antisemitic test question.

Once the review is concluded, faculty committees will be required to report all instances of either antisemitism or anti-Israeli bias to the Board of Governors, a 17-member body that oversees and manages the 12 public universities in the state. The vast majority of the members are appointed by the governor. Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. is also a member of the board.

We need to see exactly what is in the textbook, does it violate the statute? And if it doesnt, does it contain bias? Rodrigues said.

Florida defines antisemitism in state law as a perception of Jewish individuals which may be expressed as hatred toward such individuals, and any manifestations of antisemitism toward Jewish people, their property, community and religious institutions. State law also includes long-understood examples of antisemitism like calling for death or harm on Jewish people or denying the genocide of the Jewish people at the hands of Nazi Germany.

The state definition of antisemitism, which was developed by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), also includes more contemporary examples involving the state of Israel, which have been controversial in some academic circles. For example, the law says it would be antisemitic to claim that the existence of the State of Israel is a racist endeavor, or to require of the Jewish state of Israel a standard of behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation.

READ MORE: Florida bill defining antisemitism passes unanimously in Senate, moves to DeSantis

What would constitute anti-Israeli bias may be more subjective. Rodrigues said that will be up to subject matter experts to determine.

If there is a question of whether something is biased against Israel, we will bring in those who have that expertise to do that review, Rodrigues said.

The FIU test question, which came from an online course textbook called Terrorism and Homeland Security, was first flagged and labeled antisemitic by an X account called Documenting Israel. The test questions asked students to identify organizations that had invented terrorism, Rodrigues said.

After the test question became public, Rep. Randy Fine  the only Jewish Republican lawmaker in the state Legislature  called on the university to fire the professor who taught the course and described him as a #Muslimterror supporting employer.

FIU did not immediately respond to the Heralds inquiries about the test question. Rodrigues said the state is already working with Cengage, the publisher of the textbook, to resolve the issue.

Our assumption was that every question that was put before a student was reviewed by a faculty member before it was put before a student, he said. What we learned is that is not how it operates.

Thats why, Rodrigues said, the incident with the test question will also lead to another action. He said state leaders are crafting a new regulation that will require faculty members to attest that they have read their course materials  all the resources in their course materials whether thats textbooks or supplementary  before they have assigned them.

The only reason they are being discussed at the same time is because there was this antisemitic material that revealed we dont have faculty that actually go through each textbook, Rodrigues said. We assumed that was being done.

This story was produced with financial support from Trish and Dan Bell and from donors comprising the South Florida Jewish and Muslim Communities, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners. The Miami Herald maintains full editorial control of this work.
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.

_____
A crew member works on the removal of the Shulls Mill Dam on the Watauga River, near Boone, N.C., Monday, July 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Erik Verduzco)

BOONE, N.C. (AP)  On the whooshing Watauga River, excavators claw at the remains of Shulls Mill Dam, pulling concrete apart piece by piece and gradually opening a waterway kept in check for nearly two centuries.

Removal of this privately-owned hydropower dam in western North Carolina will be a boon for rafters, kayakers and tubers by allowing the river to flow freely for nearly 80 miles (129 kilometers). But maybe the biggest beneficiary will be a strange, ancient creature known as the eastern hellbender salamander.

Sometimes called a snot otter or Allegheny alligator, it's North America's largest salamander and can reach two feet (61 centimeters) in length. But the salamander's range in places such as southern Appalachia has shrunk and its numbers are down 70% over the past 50 years.

Whats so important about the hellbender is they need special habitat  clear, clean, cold, heavily oxygenated water, said Andy Hill, a Watagua Riverkeeper with MountainTrue, which teamed up with American Rivers to remove the dam in July. The hellbender is kind of a keystone species for a mountain stream ecosystem, and removal of this dam will create new habitat.

Demolition of Shulls Mill Dam is part of a national trend to return rivers to their natural state by removing aging, sometimes derelict structures that once powered mills, irrigated farmland or impounded water. Aimed at boosting biodiversity, improving water quality and strengthening flood protection amid worsening storms, the campaign to demolish dams dates back several decades but has intensified with a once-in-a-generation funding infusion from the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill.

More than $2 billion is going to federal agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Federal Emergency Management Agency, for maintaining, repairing and removing dams, culverts and other barriers. Of that, $920 million has already been spent on 544 projects.

The wildlife service is getting $200 million over five years for dam removal. In April, the agency announced plans to award $70 million in grants, supporting 43 projects to remove dams and other river barriers in 29 states.

Its a huge, huge uplift, said Amy Horstman, the service's National Fish Passage Program coordinator, who noted grants once capped at a few hundred thousand dollars are now into the millions of dollars.

This is really is changing the scope and scale, even the way we can think about aquatic connectivity, she said. "People came in with bigger, more complicated projects and asked us to help shoulder a bigger slice of that pie.

States, too, are putting money into dam removals.

North Carolina  which The Associated Press in 2019 found had the second largest collection of dams in poor or unsatisfactory condition  set aside $7.2 million for removal of Shulls Mill Dam and at least five others in the western part of the state.

Michigan's Legislature allocated more than $43 million for dam maintenance and removals after a dam failure in 2020 displaced thousands. A dozen dams, including one on the Maple River that breached in 2023, have been removed with that funding.

Obviously were trying to reduce that risk to human life and property damage, said Mason Manuszak, an environmental engineer in the states dam safety unit. One of the things were really trying to hammer home to people is ecological benefits of dam removal."

Serena McClain, senior director of the national dam removal program at the conservation group American Rivers, said the funding spike, especially from the infrastructure bill, is an opportunity to get critically important projects funded."

But McClain emphasized it was only a start  many of the nation's 500,000 to 1 million dams are over 60 years old and removal costs can range from a few hundred thousand dollars to tens of millions.

Its a great down payment on whats needed to restore and reconnect the vital river habitat all around the country, McClain said.

Among the biggest beneficiaries for dam removals are aquatic species, especially migrating fish. Studies have found removals can lower water temperatures and increase dissolved oxygen in rivers and boost populations of trout and salmon as well as freshwater mussels and American eels.

The science is pretty good that when we have obstructions, ... its really the whole system that suffers, said Horstman of Fish and Wildlife.

Some large dam systems are being removed, including four Klamath River dams in California  the largest removal project in history. But most dams being demolished are relatively small.

In Maine, the Remnant Mill Dam on the Sabattus River is slated for removal this summer. Along with flood protection, the project will provide passage for river herring and federally endangered Atlantic salmon. In New Hampshire, Washburn Mill Dam on the Mohawk River was removed to restore connectivity to nearly 40 miles (64 kilometers) of brook trout habitat.

In Flint, Michigan, the Hamilton Dam, built more than a century ago to power mill operations, is coming down. The dam, on the Flint River, has long been at risk of failing and flooding the city's downtown. Removal will reconnect 25 miles (40 kilometers) of upstream habitat, which will help the lake sturgeon population, according to U.S. wildlife officials. It will also strengthen flood protection, improve water quality and boost efforts to redevelop the riverfront.

Dam removal normally utilizes excavation equipment but the McKinley Lake Dam about 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Missoula, Montana was blown up  with explosives transported by mules. It's one of 10 century-old dams on eight glacial lakes being removed to lower water levels and allow for return of wetland crucial to native amphibians such as the long-toed salamander and Columbia spotted frog. Native trout species in the streams below the lakes would also benefit.

It's a rewilding, a re-naturalizing exercise, said Rob Roberts, a senior project manager with Trout Unlimited, which partnered with government agencies on the nearly $4 million project to remove all the dams in the next decade.

But not everyone supports removing dams, especially larger structures.

Republican lawmakers in the West, including U.S. Reps. Doug LaMalfa of California, Cliff Bentz of Oregon, Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington and Russ Fulcher of Idaho, argue the projects drain reservoirs, leaving acres of sludge, eliminating water sources for farmers and wiping out hydroelectric plant jobs.

They contend dam removal advocates dont understand that many factors cause depleted fish populations beyond spawning obstacles, including overfishing, disease and pollution.

Its a political power play, said LaMalfa, who tried to block dam removal on the Klamath River. Theyre hell-bent on tearing them out. These are trophies for these guys."

In North Carolina, dam removals along the Wautauga River have been largely applauded, and advocates already are seeing cleaner water and fish swimming parts of the river disrupted for decades.

Life for hellbenders living below the dam should improve, too. Eight were captured by divers and relocated to a safer location downstream where another dam was removed in 2021.

Appalachian State University's Michael Gangloff, who is coordinating biological monitoring at the Shulls Mill site, said the free-flowing river should improve water quality and become more attractive to salamanders. Sediment will be flushed downstream, he said, exposing larger rocks and boulders where salamanders live, lay eggs and raise young.

We should see better habitat conditions around the dam and, in 10 to 15 to 20 years, it will be hard to tell there was a dam there," Gangloff said.

___

Casey reported from Boston. Associated Press writer Todd Richmond contributed from Madison, Wisconsin.

___

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.
(Reuters) - Industrial materials maker Entegris Inc said on Wednesday it has entered into a long-term supply agreement with chipmaker ON Semiconductor to provide technological solutions to help manufacture silicon carbide (SiC)-based semiconductors.

WHY IT'S IMPORTANT

The surge in adoption of artificial intelligence applications has thrust semiconductor manufacturers into the spotlight.

Chipmakers are among the top beneficiaries of the AI boom, with the iShares Semiconductor ETF gaining nearly 7% since the start of this year, following a 65% surge in 2023.

CONTEXT

Billerica, Massachusetts-based Entegris supplies advanced materials and processes for semiconductor and other high-tech industries.

Its offerings include chemical mechanical planarization (CMP), a critical process used to remove surface irregularities from silicon wafers during chip manufacturing.

The company counts major chipmakers such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and Samsung among its clients.

KEY QUOTES

"Entegris is well-positioned to offer complementary solutions, such as specialty gases, precursors, and graphite, to meet Onsemi's needs across other semiconductor manufacturing processes," said Dann Woodland, president of Entegris Materials Solutions.

MARKET REACTION

Shares of ON Semiconductor were up 2.5% premarket.

(Reporting by Vallari Srivastava in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid)
Water flows from a pipe beside one of the sites in the San Bernardino Mountains where the company BlueTriton Brands collects water for bottling. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

In a decision that could end a years-long battle over commercial extraction of water from public lands, the U.S. Forest Service has ordered the company that sells Arrowhead bottled water to shut down a pipeline and other infrastructure it uses to collect and transport water from springs in the San Bernardino Mountains.

The Forest Service notified BlueTriton Brands in a letter last month, saying its application for a new permit has been denied.

District Ranger Michael Nobles wrote in the July 26 letter that the company must cease operations in the San Bernardino National Forest and submit a plan for removing all its pipes and equipment from federal land.

The company has challenged the denial in court.

Environmental activists praised the decision.

It's a huge victory after 10 years, said Amanda Frye, an activist who has campaigned against the taking of water from the forest. I'm hoping that we can restore Strawberry Creek, have its springs flowing again, and get the habitat back.

Read more: A bitter feud centers on source of Arrowhead bottled water

She and other opponents say BlueTriton's operation has dramatically reduced creek flow and is causing significant environmental harm.

The Forest Service announced the decision one month after a local environmental group, Save Our Forest Assn., filed a lawsuit that alleged agency was illegally allowing the company to continue operating under a permit that had expired.

The company has denied that its use of water is harming the environment and has argued that it should be allowed to continue piping water from the national forest.

BlueTriton Brands and its predecessors have continuously operated under a series of special-use permits for nearly a century, the company said in an email.

This denial has no legal merit, is unsupported by the facts, and negatively impacts the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, the company said, adding that the tribe uses a portion of the water that passes through the pipeline and relies on that water for firefighting needs.

The tribe declined to comment and referred questions about the lawsuit to BlueTriton.

If the Forest Service decision stands, it would prevent the company from using the namesake source of its brand, Arrowhead 100% Mountain Spring Water.

The springs in the mountains north of San Bernardino, which have been a source for bottled water for generations, are named after an arrowhead-shaped natural rock formation on the mountainside.

State officials have said that the first facilities to divert water in the Strawberry Creek watershed were built in 1929 , and the system expanded over the years as additional boreholes were drilled into the mountainside.

Read more: Arrowhead bottled water company sues to continue piping from California forest

At the base of the mountain and near the companys water pipeline stands the long-closed Arrowhead Springs hotel property, which the San Manuel tribe bought in 2016. The company has said that under a decades-old agreement , a portion of the water that flows through the 4.5-mile pipeline goes to the Arrowhead Springs property, and a portion of the water is delivered to a roadside tank and hauled on trucks to a bottling plant.

The Forest Service has been charging a permit fee of $2,500 per year. There has been no charge for the water.

Controversy over the issue erupted when the Desert Sun reported in 2015 that the Forest Service was allowing Nestle to siphon water using a permit that listed 1988 as the expiration date.

The Forest Service then began a review of the permit, and in 2018 granted a new permit for up to five years. The revelations about Nestle piping water from the forest sparked an outpouring of opposition and prompted several complaints to California regulators questioning the companys water rights claims, which led to a lengthy investigation by state water regulators.

BlueTriton took over the bottled water business in 2021 when Nestles North American bottled water division was purchased by private-equity firm One Rock Capital Partners and investment firm Metropoulos & Co. (Last month, BlueTriton and Primo Water Corp. announced plans to merge and form a new company.)

State officials determined last year that the company has been unlawfully diverting much of the water without valid water rights  agreeing with Frye and others, who had questioned the companys claims and presented historical documents. The State Water Resources Control Board voted to order the company to halt its unauthorized diversions of water. But BlueTriton sued to challenge that decision, contending that the process was rife with problems.

Read more: California environmental group sues U.S. Forest Service over Arrowhead bottled water operation

In the July Forest Service letter, Nobles said the company was repeatedly asked to provide additional information necessary to assure compliance with BlueTritons existing permit but that the requests were consistently left unanswered.

Nobles said that under the regulations, he may consider whether the water used exceeds the needs of forest resources.

He also said that while the company had said in its application that the water would go for bottled water, its reports showed that 94% to 98% of the amount of water diverted monthly was delivered to the old hotel property for undisclosed purposes, and that for months BlueTriton has indicated it has bottled none of the water taken, while also significantly increasing the volumes extracted.

This increase represents significantly more water than has ever been delivered previously, Nobles wrote. The hotel and conference facility on the property is not operating, and there is no explanation of where the millions of gallons of water per month are going.

He said the decision is final and cannot be appealed.

Nobles ordered the company to stop use of the BlueTriton pipeline within seven days by severing or blocking the pipe at each tunnel or borehole at a dozen sites; to remove the locks on its equipment; and to submit a plan within three months for removing all of its infrastructure.

Forest Service officials did not respond to an email requesting comments about the decision.

BlueTritons spokesperson said the Forest Service has agreed to a temporary 30-day stay for the sole purpose of supplying the needs of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, including for fire prevention.

We will continue to operate in compliance with all state and federal laws while we explore legal and regulatory options, the spokesperson said.

The company says in the lawsuit that the Forest Service has violated federal law with a decision that is arbitrary and capricious.

BlueTriton said studies by its scientific consultants have found that the taking of water has not negatively affected the Strawberry Canyon environment.

Records show about 319 acre-feet, or 104 million gallons, flowed through the companys pipes in 2023.

In the rugged canyon downhill from the springs, Strawberry Creek has continued flowing in recent years. But when Frye has hiked along the creek, she has found that its western fork, located downhill from the boreholes, is just a trickle, forming a series of puddles among the bushes and trees.

Our goal was to get that water back in the creek and protect the forest, Frye said. The proof will be when the pipes and all that infrastructure is taken out and it's restored. But I think we're nearing the end.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
FILE PHOTO: Canadian Security Intelligence Service Director David Vigneault speaks during public hearings for an independent commission probing alleged foreign interference in Canadian elections in Ottawa

OTTAWA (Reuters) - Former Canadian spy agency chief David Vigneault, who stepped down after seven years in that post in July, is joining U.S. security firm Strider Technologies as the managing director of its global intelligence unit, the company said on Wednesday.

Vigneault had come under pressure about the spy agency's handling of foreign interference in Canada and said he was leaving public service when he retired as the director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).

"Though my time in government is over, the threats persist, and there is more work to be done. So I look forward to continuing the fight in another way," Vigneault said in a statement.

At Salt Lake City, Utah-based Strider, which sells software and services to protect firms from state-sponsored threats, Vigneault will work on engaging private and public sector organizations and advance research and development, the company said.

During his tenure as CSIS chief, Vigneault headed efforts to track and thwart what Ottawa alleges were attempts by China and other states to interfere in Canadian affairs. Beijing strongly denies all such accusations.

An official probe said in May there was evidence of foreign interference in Canada's last two federal elections but the results were not impacted.

Vigneault was also a representative for Canada in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance with the United States, Britain, Australia and New Zealand.

"His experience leading at the highest levels of the global intelligence community will be invaluable to both Strider and our customers around the world as we pursue our mission," Strider CEO Greg Levesque said in a statement.

Strider has previously named former defense and military officials from U.S., Britain and Canada as advisers, including former U.S. President Donald Trump's national security aide H.R. McMaster.

(Reporting by Ismail Shakil in Ottawa; Editing by Stephen Coates)
A top Swiss banker accused his former housekeeper of blackmail after she had a nervous breakdown when working at his luxury villa.

Tidjane Thiam, the former head of Credit Suisse, accused the domestic worker of extortion when she demanded almost 600,000 Swiss francs (547,000) in compensation for alleged abusive working conditions.

However, a judge in Zurich rejected claims brought by criminal prosecutors, ruling that the former staff member had acted within her contractual rights. The case was brought by prosecutors and Mr Thiam was not party to it.

The trial of the 43-year-old Romanian woman, whose name was withheld by the court, centred on a dispute over her employment by the businessman.

Stephan Reinhardt, a lawyer for the woman, said she had suffered a nervous breakdown as a result of her working conditions, the Financial Times reported.

The court heard that the housekeeper had not been able to take holiday or time off during her employment.

Mr Reinhardt said her distress culminated with an incident in the early hours of a Sunday morning in December 2018, when she claimed to have been verbally abused by Mr Thiams partner after the boiler broke down at the villa on Lake Zurich.

The woman was hospitalised shortly afterwards and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder before being fired by Mr Thiam, the court was told.

The housekeeper, who won a civil case against the businessman last year, testified that she had not intended to make any of these events public.

Following her dismissal, the woman sent an email to her former employer asking for 587,000 Swiss francs in compensation.

She said she did not wish to harm him but that she would approach trade unions and the International Olympic Committee, of which Mr Thiam is a member, if the dispute was not resolved.

Lawyers for Mr Thiam argued that the email amounted to a criminal attempt at blackmail. But the judge dismissed the claim, ruling that the message was unlikely to have any coercive effect.

Mr Thiam is a member of the IOC and is currently attending the Olympic Games in Paris - LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP

Mr Thiam, who is currently attending the Olympic Games in Paris, is reportedly planning to appeal the verdict.

It is not the first time he has been embroiled in controversy. The former Credit Suisse chief executive was ousted in 2020 after the Swiss bank admitted to spying on former employees.

Mr Thiam was not involved in the spying case and denied any knowledge of it. However, the board ousted him over the incident, with chairman Urs Rohner saying at the time there had been a deterioration in terms of trust, reputation and credibility.

Mr Thiams departure triggered further scandal at the bank as reports emerged that he had been subjected to racial discrimination during his tenure.

Credit Suisse apologised for an incident in which the former boss left a birthday party for Mr Rohner after a black performer danced on stage dressed as a janitor.

The bank was taken over by rival UBS last year in a rescue deal, after coming to the brink of collapse.

In December, Mr Thiam was elected to lead the opposition party in his home country of Ivory Coast. He is preparing to run in the next presidential election in 2025.

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.
Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan encouraged Minnesotans to file their taxes, highlighting the states 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.

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.
Absconding with money from an estate and letting assistants do a Lemon Law lawyers job are just two of the reasons lawyers from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties wound up on the monthly Florida Bar report of attorneys disciplined by the state Supreme Court.

In alphabetical order:

Debbie Campbell, Coral Gables

Svetlana Kozlovskaia filed a Florida Bar complaint about Coral Gables attorney Debbie Campbell, alleging misappropriation of funds and other ethical violations. On Dec. 26, a subpoena demanded Campbell get the Campbell Legal Groups trust account records from Jan. 1, 2019, through Nov. 30, 2023, to the Florida Bar by Jan. 19.

A week after the deadline, Campbell asked for an extension, arguing proper due process required she get a lawyer to help with the records, and compressed trial dates and overburdened dockets made lawyers hard to find in January. She got an extension, but still didnt come across with the records demanded.

Coral Gables attorney Debbie Campbell

The Bar filed a petition for contempt on March 27. After an extension, Campbell answered on May 6 that shed told the Bar she wanted to immediately begin the process of entering a consent judgment, the procedures for making an admission of minor misconduct, and engage in all efforts to settle the matter.

That offer to end the original case with a guilty plea for consent judgment was rejected by the Bar because Campbell still has provided no documents in response thereto, even after being placed on notice of the instant contempt proceedings. [Campbell] has shown no good cause for her failure to respond to the subpoena served on her last year.

Campbell is suspended until she satisfies the subpoena.

READ MORE: Competence violation among reasons South Florida attorneys got suspended, disbarred

Todd Herman, Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdales Todd Herman was suspended in October for ignoring three Florida Bar grievances. On Nov. 22, came another accusatory shot, this one from Luis Perez.

I am requesting an investigation on my former attorney, Todd Herman, for his actions once the lawsuit was settled, Perez wrote to the Bar. Todd Herman kept the compensation to himself despite it originally being for my medical expenses. The total compensation for the lawsuit was $10,000. As of, today, I still have yet to receive a penny for compensation for medical expenses. It is important to note that Todd Herman was absent for all three court hearings regarding the location of the compensation and rationale for his actions.

Todd Herman

Travis Stultz of Weinstein Legal, who took over as Perezs attorney, wrote to the Bar that when he requested Perezs file from Herman in May 2022, Herman didnt say anything about the $10,000 he deposited in 2020.

The medical payments coverage payment was not discovered until it was mentioned by defense counsel on Nov. 7, 2022, Stultz wrote. Since that date, we have made multiple attempts via email and phone calls. We even stopped by his office In an attempt to retrieve these funds that are due to Mr. Perez. We sought court intervention; however, Mr, Herman did not respond to the courts order requiring him to provide our firm with the $10,000 due to Mr. Perez, Mr. Herman was ordered to appear and Show Cause on Jan. 27, 2023, but did not appear for the hearing on April 5, 2023.

The Bar said Herman hasnt responded to anything about this grievance, so hes suspended for this contempt of court also.

John Spencer Jenkins, Fort Lauderdale

No one knows the whereabouts of John Jenkins, aka Spencer Jenkins, who worked out of Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors.

Not the Florida Bar, which didnt get an answer from Jenkins to any of the below grievances that were filed.

Not Peter Mullins, who got a $235,600 malpractice verdict against Jenkins for malpractice after Jenkins abandoned a federal court case in which Mullins was a defendant.

Mullins said Jenkins was recommended to him by Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis, who said he knew Jenkins for about 10 years. Trantalis told the Miami Herald he probably recommended other attorneys, too, but definitely had recommended Jenkins to several people. Spencer was an excellent, rising attorney. I thought he would be an important part of our community. I didnt know about any of this until I read the story yesterday.

Nobody in the family of William Walters, whose estate Jenkins misappropriated to the tune of $612,507, knows where Jenkins is, either.

READ MORE: He misappropriated $612,000, owes another former client $235,000 and has disappeared

Wherever Jenkins is, hes permanently disbarred.

John Spencer Jenkins aka Spencer

Miguel Mirabal, Coral Gables

Coral Gables attorney Miguel Mirabal, aka Mike Mirabal, a member of the Florida Bar since 2004 with a clean record, badly wanted to be a judge.

Mirabal ran for a Miami-Dade court seat in 2018, applied to the Judicial Nominating Committee to fill a Miami-Dade court vacancy in 2019 and ran again to be a County Court judge in 2020. Mirabal triumphed in that last election, was sworn in Jan 4, 2021, but resigned April 20, 2021, after a Judicial Qualifying Commission began an investigation.

In each of his three attempts to join the judiciary, [Mirabal] reported inaccurate information and/or made omissions, under oath, in the papers he submitted, Mirabals guilty plea for consent judgment said. He did so, specifically, in his judicial application, his financial disclosures and/or his certified monthly campaign finance reports.

The consent judgment proposed a 90-day suspension followed by 18 months of probation. The referee, Judge Daniel Casey, influenced by Mirabals resignation, accepted the proposed punishment, though he said he struggled with the propriety of the proposed resolution of this matter, given the multiple, serious and continuous actions alleged...

What Casey struggled to accept, the state Supreme Court had no problem rejecting. The court kicked the case back to Casey.

Caseys amended report recommended disbarment.

Casey wrote after the rejection: I have held a full hearing in this matter, which has revealed the full nature of [Mirabals] conduct, causing me to change my recommendation.

Mirabals misconduct, Casey wrote, maintained a consistent pattern of disregarding honesty and integrity in ways that [Mirabal] believed would be to his benefit.

Also, Mirabal was accused of threatening a grievance against Miami-Dade County Judge Milena Abreu, who made the original complaint, in an attempt to intimidate and silence her, the Bar said.

Miguel Fernando Mirabal

In a June 2023 brief, Mirabals lawyers, Kevin Tynan and Herman Russomanno, argued Caseys disbarment recommendation wasnt supported by the record, especially Mirabals lack of a prior disciplinary record, overwhelming character testimony, the imposition of other penalties (including resigning from the bench), and his deep remorse for his actions.

They argued a one-year suspension would fit, three years at the maximum.

The state Supreme Court chose a different maximum and accepted the disbarment recommendation.

Frank Noska, Palm Beach

According to the first Bar grievance filed against Palm Beachs Frank Noska, Noska brought in attorney Cris Boyar to help with Chris Thompsons lawsuit against Geico. But Noska said hed handle all communication with Thompson.

Geico won the case and was awarded attorneys fees. After the decision on attorneys fees, Boyar tried to reach Noska with no success.

Mr. Boyar then contacted Mr. Thompson, who advised that not only had he not heard from [Noska], but he did not recall giving [Noska] authorization to litigate the case and had no knowledge of the status of the case, the Bar complaint said.

Boyar also filed a grievance against Noska, a member of the Bar since 1982. Noska responded to neither grievance, got suspended in July 2023 and, now, is disbarred.

Brooks Siegel, North Miami Beach

Brooks Siegel, who is also a member of the Arizona Bar, is the registered agent for Lemon Law Group Partners, Jason Hedgedus law firm that operates out of North Miami Beach. What follows occurred in 2021 during the same month Siegel got a public reprimand for similar treatment of a Lemon Law Group client.

READ MORE: Stealing money, ignoring clients and other misdeeds by Miami area attorneys

Siegels guilty plea says when Arizona resident Brenda Arechiga called Siegel for a Lemon Law claim, she got a staffer in Florida. A fee agreement was signed without speaking to Siegel or any attorney, but an Aug. 20, 2021, email to Arechiga said Siegel was her attorney.

Without Siegel or anyone else speaking to Arechiga about case goals or a demand letter, a legal assistant sent an Aug. 31, 2021, email to Dodge Motors for Arechiga that offered to settle the case if Dodge bought the car back and paid attorneys fees and costs.

Arechiga asked for a case update on Sept. 7 and got a Sept. 9 response from staff member Maria that Dodge Motors had finally responded. On Oct. 13, 2021, Arechiga asked what was happening, as she hadnt heard anything in six weeks.

Dodge Motors offered, on Oct. 26, 2021, to settle for $4,000. Maria told Arechiga if she accepted the offer, shed get $1,000 and the firm would get $3,000. Arechiga rejected that idea and fired the firm without ever speaking with [Siegel] or any lawyer.

This violated Florida Bar rules of competence; diligence; communication; and responsibilities regarding nonlawyer assistants.

Siegel got a reprimand in Arizona and agreed on Jan. 25, 2023, to refrain from practicing there for two years. In Florida, on June 27, Siegel got a public reprimand and an order to attend ethics school before Dec. 27.

North Miami Beach attorney Brooks Siegel
The Oklahoma City Police Department investigated a former state employee, Heath Hayes, for embezzlement. Hayes has been charged with one count of felony embezzlement (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  A former state employee was charged with embezzlement for allegedly stealing money from a foundation he helped oversee.

Heath Hayes, 40, of Oklahoma City, was charged in Oklahoma County on Monday with one felony count of embezzlement in excess of $1,000, according to court records.

Hayes, the former director of communications and deputy commissioner of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, is accused of embezzling $17,500 from Healthy Minds Healthy Lives while serving as a board member of the foundation that works to promote mental health in Oklahoma, according to an affidavit released by the mental health department.

Court records show that Hayes had not been taken into custody as of Wednesday afternoon and has a bond set at $3,000. He had no lawyer listed online.

According to the affidavit, Hayes endorsed three cashiers checks totaling over $145,000 in January and deposited the money into a Bluevine bank account.

When confronted, Hayes did not deny the transactions, but made excuses for them, according to the affidavit. He provided bank statements, returned the money other than a few dollars, and resigned from the agency, according to the affidavit.

Officials were concerned that other donations to Healthy Minds Healthy Lives totaling thousands of dollars had not reached the foundation, according to the affidavit.

The Oklahoma City Police Department investigator wrote in the affidavit that he obtained records from Bluevine Bank for an account listed under the foundations name with Hayes listed as the owner. The records contradicted the fake bank statements Heath had provided to the state mental health agency, according to the affidavit.

Records from Bluevine Bank, obtained by OKCPD, revealed amounts matching the cashiers checks and three of the four missing donations, according to investigators. Debits from that account appeared to be for personal use and were transferred to other accounts in Hayes name, the detective wrote in the affidavit.

Once these allegations surfaced, the department immediately retained an outside investigator to look into the matter  This alleged wrongdoing was caught early, and the department has undertaken a comprehensive review of internal processes to ensure that this does not happen again, Sasha Teel, chief of staff for the Mental Health Department, said in a statement Wednesday.

If convicted, Hayes could face up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000 and have to pay restitution.

Editors note: This story was corrected Wednesday afternoon to remove a link to the Healthy Minds Policy Initiative website, which is a different mental health initiative. It was also updated to shorten the description of Healthy Minds Healthy Lives mission.

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Former Milwaukee hotel workers charged with murder after video shows them holding down Black man

FILE - This undated photo provided by Samantha Mitchell shows D'Vontaye Mitchell, left, who died on June 30, 2024, after being pinned to the ground by hotel security guards in Milwaukee with his sister Nayish Mitchell and cousin Samantha Mitchell. (Samantha Mitchell via AP, File)

MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Prosecutors in Milwaukee have charged four hotel workers in connection with D'Vontaye Mitchell's death after scouring video showing them piling on top of the Black man during an incident that Mitchell's family says is disturbingly similar to George Floyd's death.

Mitchell's family spent weeks pressuring prosecutors to charge the hotel workers in the June 30 death. District Attorney John Chisholm finally filed a count of being a party to felony murder against each of them on Tuesday.

Here's what to know about Mitchell's death and the Hyatt workers, who now face sentences of up to nearly 16 years in prison if they're convicted.

How did the conflict start?

The criminal complaint charging the hotel workers offers a detailed account of the last moments of Mitchell's life based on Hyatt surveillance footage, witness accounts and a bystander's video.

Surveillance video shows Mitchell running through the downtown high-rise hotel's lobby on the afternoon of June 30, according to the complaint. He enters the gift shop and then the women's bathroom.

Two women who were in the bathroom later told investigators that Mitchell tried to lock them in the bathroom. One woman said she told him to let her out but he refused. She was eventually able to push past him.

Video shows off-duty Hyatt security guard Brandon Turner dragging Mitchell out of the bathroom. He and a hotel guest then get into a scuffle with Mitchell and drag him across the lobby, through the foyer and out into the hotel driveway. At one point Turner punches Mitchell six times.

Once outside, the hotel guest returns to the building but on-duty security guard Todd Erickson, bellhop Herbert Williamson and front desk worker Devin Johnson-Carson help Turner hold Mitchell down on his stomach for what the complaint says was eight to nine minutes.

Johnson-Carson would later tell detectives he heard Mitchell groaning and saying stop and why? and something about breathing. Erickson told Mitchell that I don't want to hear that," followed by a profanity. Johnson-Carson also said Erickson struck Mitchell with a baton.

Williamson told investigators he put his knee on the middle of Mitchell's back, adding that Mitchell was strong, wouldn't calm down and tried to bite Erickson. Mitchell kept asking what he did wrong, Williamson said.

A bystander's video of the incident caught Mitchell yelling please and I'm sorry while breathing heavily. Erickson turns to the camera and says: This is what happens when you go into the ladies' room.

By the time police and emergency responders arrived Mitchell had stopped moving, the complaint said.

How did Mitchell die?

The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office determined that Mitchell was morbidly obese and suffered from heart disease, according to the complaint, and had cocaine and methamphetamine in his system.

After watching video of the incident, Assistant Medical Examiner Lauren Decker determined that Mitchell suffered restraint asphyxia from the workers holding down his legs, arms, back and head. In other words, they prevented Mitchell from breathing.

Decker said Mitchell might have lived had the workers moved him to his side. The medical examiner's office classified the manner of death as homicide on Friday.

What happened next?

Mitchell's family began drawing comparisons of his death to Floyd, who died in 2020 after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into Floyd's neck for almost nine minutes. The death of Floyd, who was Black, sparked a national reckoning on race relations.

Mitchell's family began pressuring Chisholm to file charges against the Hyatt employees. The Rev. Al Sharpton, a longtime civil rights activist, delivered the elegy at Mitchell's funeral. The family hired Ben Crump, a noted civil rights attorney who represented Floyd's family.

Everybody in America, after George Floyd, should have trained their employees, especially security personnel, to not put knees on peoples backs and peoples necks, Crump told reporters in July.

What do the charges mean?

Chisholms office said it was reviewing the case as a homicide but was waiting for full autopsy results. The criminal complaint concludes with a rare explanation of prosecutors rationale for the charges, saying that the four employees impaired Mitchells breathing due to his weight and drug consumption and they knew it.

The actions and words of DM, the distress that he was in, show that all four Defendants were aware that holding DM face first on the ground was practically certain to cause impairment of his physical condition, the complaint says.

The charge brought against the hotel workers alleges they killed Mitchell while committing another crime  in this case, battery. They werent charged with Wisconsins most serious offense, first-degree intentional homicide, which carries a mandatory life sentence.

What are the hotel employees saying?

They maintain they didn't intentionally kill Mitchell.

Williamson, the bellhop, told WTMJ-TV on Tuesday after the charges were filed that hotel management told him to hold Mitchell down. He didn't tell the station who told him that but said he never committed any acts of violence against Mitchell.

If I'm wrong for that, I mean, may God treat me in the proper way that I should be treated, he said.

Erickson's attorney, Michael Steinle, didn't return messages from The Associated Press seeking comment. Erickson told investigators, however, that he knows about pressure points in the human body and couldn't remember ever striking Mitchell, even though he was very strong, kept resisting and tried to bite him, the complaint said. Erickson insisted he didn't do anything to intentionally hurt or kill Mitchell.

According to the complaint, Turner told a detective he heard women screaming in the hotel bathroom and Mitchell was trying to lock himself inside. He said Mitchell tried to reach into his pockets, called him names and swung at him first. He acknowledged punching Mitchell several times. He said he thought Mitchell was on drugs and at one point moved Mitchell's clothes off his face.

Johnson-Carson told a detective that he saw Turner fighting with Mitchell and Mitchell didn't appear to be stable mentally because he was speaking gibberish," the complaint said. He decided to help Turner because elderly people and children were in the lobby, the on-duty staff were mostly women and Turner was smaller than Mitchell, he said.

Erickson told everyone to turn Mitchell onto his stomach and he thought Erickson was going to handcuff him, Johnson-Carson said. He didn't see anyone strangle Mitchell and none of them thought Mitchell had stopped breathing. At one point he said he told Williamson to stop applying pressure, and Williamson finally got up.

Online court records listed Turner's attorney as Matt Last, who didn't immediately return an AP message seeking comment. Williamson and Johnson-Carson's dockets didn't list any attorneys and the AP was not able to find phone listings for them.

What's next?

Arrests warrants have been issued for all four defendants. As of Wednesday, Erickson was in custody but there was no record the others had been arrested yet.

Once they are in custody, they will have to make brief initial appearances in court. Erickson made his Wednesday morning.

Preliminary hearings will follow before a judge decides whether there's enough evidence for them to stand trial.
U.S. Senate candidate and former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers rallies for Donald Trump in Freeland., May 1, 2024 | Kyle Davidson

Updated at 10:50 p.m. 8/6/24

To no ones surprise, former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake) has won the Republican nomination to run in November for Michigans U.S. Senate seat, where he will face U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly), who won the Democratic primary.

According to the Associated Press, which called the race just after 9 p.m., the 61-year-old Rogers, beat out his two rivals for the position, former U.S Rep. Justin Amash (I-Cascade Twp.) and physician and former congressional candidate Dr. Sherry ODonnell. According to unofficial results, with 26% of the votes counted, Rogers polled just over 64% , while Amash and ODonnell picked up 15.3% and 12.2% respectively.

The victory was seen as preordained thanks to former President Donald Trumps endorsement of Rogers in March. It was further helped along after Grosse Pointe Park businessman Sandy Pensler also endorsed Rogers last month during a rally with Trump in Grand Rapids. Penslers name still appeared on the ballot and picked up 8.3% of the vote.

Speaking at his primary election night party at a Lake Orion bar, to which the Michigan Advance was denied entry, Rogers reiterated the themes he and the GOP as a whole have been hitting on throughout his campaign, centered on the assertion that the decisions made during the Biden administration have made life tougher for Americans.

I want you to listen to the things that I have to say. We have to stand up and let people understand that there are people behind these decisions, he told the crowd of supporters. I know a deputy sheriff [who] lost his daughter to the fentanyl crisis facing Michigan. Started in China, went to the cartels in Mexico, came to Michigan, and took a young life. We know how to stop this. And Ill tell you what, when we work hard and I get to the United States Senate, we better put China on notice. There is going to be a price to pay.

Michigan Democratic Party Chair Lavora Barnes issued a statement following news that Rogers had advanced to the general election.

Mike Rogers has shown that he is only out for himself  he walked through the revolving door to enrich himself at Michiganders expense and then abandoned Michigan for a million-dollar mansion in Florida the first chance he got, said Barnes. Rogers wants to enact a dangerous agenda: banning abortion, supporting tax giveaways for big corporations, and jeopardizing Social Security and Medicare  and thats exactly why Michiganders will reject him and his self-serving politics in November.

Rogers retired from Congress in 2015 following seven terms representing his mid-Michigan district, serving as chair of the powerful House Intelligence Committee. He also represented Livingston County in the Michigan Senate from 1995 to 2001.

He later became a cyber security adviser and businessman and moved to Florida.

The Howell native, whose purchase of a home in White Lake created questions earlier this year about where he actually was living, came out of the gate last September with a strong bid to attract Trump voters and essentially never looked back.

His victory in the GOP primary comes despite his former service as an FBI agent and CNN commentator, neither of which are popular with MAGA voters, many of whom view the federal law enforcement agency as complicit in targeting Trump as well as the cable news outlet that is often a target of his ire.

It also follows a political conversion for Rogers, who was initially not a vocal supporter of Trump. In 2018, Rogers said Trump was fundamentally wrong in his assessment of Russian President Vladimir Putin, while also calling Trumps political tactics destructive and saying he would not commit to supporting Trump for president in 2024 if he is the GOP nominee.

But Rogers political instincts to move beyond those stances and adapt to the political reality of a Trump-dominated Republican Party paid off on Tuesday night and set him up to try and break a three-decade GOP drought.

The last time a Republican won a Senate seat in Michigan was 1994 when Spencer Abraham handily defeated U.S. Rep. Bob Carr (D-East Lansing). However, Abraham only held the seat for one term, losing in 2000 to current U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing), whose announcement in January 2023 that she would not run for reelection opened up an opportunity for Republicans to flip the seat.

Congratulations to all our candidates tonight on a well fought victory. The Michigan Republican Party is excited to work alongside all our nominees this cycle to flip a Senate seat, expand our majority in the House of Representatives, and take back our majority in the Michigan State House. Together, well show Michiganders that conservative policies will stabilize our economy, lower the cost of living, secure our borders, and bring peace to the world stage again, Michigan Republican Party Chairman Pete Hoekstra said in a statement.

While the Cook Political Report has rated the open race as a tossup, the Senate race is still considered an uphill battle for the GOP. Rogers was the best situated among Republicans to climb that hill with the latest fundraising filings with the Federal Elections Commission showing that as of June 30, he had more than $2.5 million in cash on hand, an amount sure to grow dramatically with his primary victory. In fact, the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) announced in June it was injecting seven figures into a Michigan field program for Rogers.

However, hell be facing a prodigious fundraiser in November when he takes on Slotkin, who already has more than $8.7 million in cash on hand as of July 17. Slotkin has also spent the last six years building name recognition and a political operation in Michigan, something Rogers has had to work at resurrecting since leaving office and moving out of Michigan prior to deciding to jump back into the political fray.

This story has been updated to include statements from Mike Rogers and Lavora Barnes, as well as updated vote totals and percentages.

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BARCELONA, Spain (AP)  Carles Puigdemont, the former leader of Catalonia who fled Spain after organizing an illegal independence referendum in the wealthy Spanish region seven years ago, announced that he plans to return home on Thursday despite the likelihood of being arrested on his return.

Puigdemont, 61, who fled to Belgium after the breakaway bid in October 2017 quickly collapsed, said Wednesday that he would attend an event organized by his political party Together for Catalonia near Barcelonas regional parliament building hours before a new regional government takes office.

He did not say when or how he would arrive in Spain. The political event in Barcelona is likely to gather many Puigdemont supporters.

The Mossos D'Esquadra, the regional police in Catalonia, say that they intend to obey court orders to arrest Puigdemont, if he does return.

In his announcement made on YouTube, Puigdemont recognized that he cannot attend freely the scheduled parliamentary session and accused authorities of a long persecution over the unsuccessful breakaway attempt.

This challenge must be answered and confronted, he said.

Puigdemont's return is likely to generate renewed political tension over the smoldering issue of Catalan independence. The failed secession attempt triggered a protracted constitutional crisis in Spain.

Puigdemont and his supporters have long taken a confrontational and at times provocative stance toward Spain's central authorities, especially the Madrid-based government.

The former Catalan leaders return threatened to complicate a deal brokered after months of deadlock between Salvador Illa's Catalan Socialist Party and the other main Catalan separatist party and left-wing Esquerra Republicana.

That deal had ensured just enough support in Catalonias parliament for Illa to become the next regional president in an investiture debate Thursday, scheduled shortly after Puigdemont's first planned event and which will take place amid tight security.

Puigdemont, who is wanted on charges of embezzlement during the secession attempt, has dedicated his career to the goal of carving out a new country in northeast Spain  a decadeslong struggle. His largely uncompromising approach has brought political conflict with other separatist parties as well as with Spain's central government.

A contentious amnesty bill, crafted by Spains Socialist-led coalition government, could potentially clear Puigdemont and hundreds of other supporters of Catalan independence of any wrongdoing in the illegal 2017 ballot.

Story continues

But the bill, approved by Spains parliament earlier this year, is being challenged by the Supreme Court, which argues the pardon does not apply to embezzlement, unlike other crimes that Puigdemont had previously been charged with. Puigdemont could be placed in pretrial detention.

Puigdemonts escape from Spain became the stuff of legend among his followers, and a huge source of embarrassment for Spanish law enforcement. He is a celebrated figurehead for many Catalans who want to break away from the rest of Spain.

Earlier this year, Puigdemont denied that he had hidden in a car trunk to avoid detection while slipping across the border after the referendum. The subsequent legal crackdown landed several of his cohorts in prison until Prime Minister Pedro Sanchezs government pardoned them.

___

Hatton reported from Lisbon, Portugal.
Former Santa Cruz County treasurer embezzled more than $39M over a decade, lawsuit alleges

A southern Arizona county is requesting a jury trial as it sues its former treasurer over allegations she embezzled more than $39 million over 10 years.

Santa Cruz County filed a civil lawsuit Thursday in Pima Superior Court against former county Treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr, her husband and son, and several other unnamed individuals and corporate entities.

Investigations by the FBI, Department of Justice and local agencies remain ongoing, the county said.

For more than a decade, Gutfahr used County funds as her own personal piggy-bank to fund an opulent and extravagant lifestyle  purchasing several ranches, vehicles, and more, prosecutors alleged in court documents.

The county is pursuing more than a half-dozen charges, including fraud, conversion, civil conspiracy, racketeering and breach of fiduciary duty. The county is also pursuing negligent misrepresentation and unjust enrichment as alternative charges if Gutfahr and the other defendants are not found guilty.

The county claims it has suffered $1.35 million in lost interest from the theft.

The county is requesting compensation for the missing funds, and control of a constructed trust over all assets Gutfahr purchased with the county funds.

The County now brings this action to reclaim the money that Gutfahr wrongfully took, as well as its attorneys fees and costs, said the county in its lawsuit. Because Gutfahrs actions were so outrageous, the County also seeks treble damages under Arizonas Anti-Racketeering Statute.

The lawsuit was filed in Pima County Superior Court because Gutfahr's business that received the allegedly embezzled funds, Rio Rico Consulting LLC, is headquartered in Pima County. One of Gutfahr's residences is also in the county, the lawsuit stated.

The alleged theft was discovered in April after JPMorgan Chase, the county's bank, reported 11 fraudulent transactions for $375,000 to the county. The findings prompted investigations by the Federal Bureau of Justice, Department of Justice, Arizona Auditor Generals Office, and Santa Cruz County.

Guftahr, a Democrat, did not respond to requests for comment, and no legal document responding to the allegations has been posted on the Arizona Superior Court database.

Companies owned by Gutfahr, her family implicated in scheme

Investigation into the missing money found Gutfahr allegedly diverted funds from the countys savings account meant to generate interest for county departments and county entities, like school and fire districts.

These funds were diverted to one of her businesses, Rio Rico Consulting, based in Oro Valley, prosecutors said in court records.

The county alleged she has several other companies that either helped her embezzle public funds, or that own assets purchased with the county funds.

Also listed as defendants in the lawsuit are John and Jane Does I-X, unknown individuals that conspired with or aided and abetted the alleged embezzlement. The suit also lists John Doe corporate Entities I-X, unknown corporations that allegedly illegally received county funds or helped steal the funds.

Lawsuit alleges Gutfahr doctored documents, investment statements to hide diversion of funds

The lawsuit accuses Gutfahr of successfully avoiding detection for so long using three strategies, including diverting money in certain months, misrepresenting the total balance of funds in finance reports, and fabricating investment statements.

Gutfahr was able to evade detection for so long through accounting tricks and outright fabrications, state court documents.

During the annual audit by the Arizona Auditor General, the state agency reviewed June year-end financial statements from the preceding year, so Gutfahr avoided diverting funds to Rio Rico Consulting in June and July.

Gutfahr also allegedly misreported the daily warrants line item to a third-party consultant to avoid detection from 2018 to 2023.

Gutfahr would claim that 'daily warrants' that cleared in the bank accounts but not posted in the general ledgers were much higher than they actually were, said the lawsuit. This allowed her to fill the gap in declining account balances and cover up her wires to Rio Rico Consulting LLC.

As the alleged theft increased throughout the decade, her methods of evading detection became more involved, leading her to reportedly doctor investment bank statements.

She was no longer able to paper-over the Rio Rico wires merely by falsely reporting daily outstanding warrant reconciliation numbers, said the lawsuit.

The county is still investigating the allegedly doctored statements but has found five created from 2021 to 2023.

As part of the audit cash reconciliation process, Gutfahr provided a statement for a UBS investment account to a consultant in October or November 2021. The statement dated June 2021 showed a balance of $14 million, according to court documents. But investigators discovered Gutfahr only opened the account with UBS Financial Services, an investment bank, in October 2021, months after statements date.

Court documents claim she had subsequently transferred $14 million from the County Operating Account to the UBS Investment account.

The lawsuit alleged Gutfahr used a real UBS statement from October showing the $14 million balance to create a back-dated fake document showing the same balance in June.

Evidence of alleged doctoring displays varying approach

Evidence of doctoring among the five statements differs in each statement. This includes using her business mailing address in Tumacacori, and a Rio Rico address for UBS Financial Services Inc., instead of the banks actual Phoenix address. The statements also changed the name of the financial advisor and phone number assigned to the account, among other changes.

In the second fabricated financial statement supplied to the third-party consultant in June 2022, the fund balance was correct but other information was incorrect. One of the inconsistencies included the contact information for the UBS financial advisor associated with the account.

The county claims the phone number on the second statement belonged to a former employee on Gutfahrs Rancho San Cayetano, which it said was done to ensure any auditor would contact Gutfahr or her contacts instead of UBS.

The lawsuit alleged Gutfahr was able to evade detection because she waited to supply the third-party consultant with investment statements after she had received the legitimate UBS investment statements.

Gutfahr was able to pull this off, it seems, because she did not actually supply the third-party consultant with investment statements  until after Gutfahr received the legitimate UBS investment statements, the lawsuit alleged.

Gutfahr has a history of tax liens

Gutfahr and her husband have a history of tax liens filed against them, according to court documents. The first, filed in 2011, was released. Prosecutors said the second was filed against them in 2013, and the third was filed in 2015 for $160,848 and released two years later.

Gutfahr was elected county treasurer in 2012 and reelected in 2016 and 2020. Before the embezzlement allegations came to light, she was running unopposed in the 2024 election.

Previously she worked in real estate in Santa Cruz County.

Investigators found while she had a self-employed brokers license number, which was issued in 2008, the employer associated with the license, Rio Rico Consulting & Real Estate is not registered with the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Reach the reporter at sarah.lapidus@gannett.com. The Republics coverage of southern Arizona is funded, in part, with a grant from Report for America. Support Arizona news coverage with a tax-deductible donation at supportjournalism.azcentral.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Santa Cruz County's ex-treasurer embezzled more than $39M, suit alleges
DILLON, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A former investigator with the Marlboro County Sheriffs Office was arrested Monday after being accused of harassing and stalking a fellow employee.

According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, between October and December 2023, Antonio Anquan Alford used sheriffs office GPS equipment to track the movements of another MCSO employee. The tracking device was placed on the victims personal vehicle.

HANDPICKED: Questions abound in Bennettsvilles hiring of $150-an-hour financial consultant

Alford, 33, also is alleged to have sent anonymous text messages as part of the harassment.

SLED officials say the actions were performed in a pattern of intentional and unreasonable intrusions into the victims private life, for no legitimate purpose causing emotional and mental distress.

The alleged acts took place in Marlboro and Dillon counties.

Alford was charged 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.

Records show the messages contained vulgar and/or obscene content. Even after the victim confided in Alford about the unwanted messages, he allegedly continued to send them.

SLED Senior Special Agent Eric Johnson is investigating the case.

Alford was part of the Major Crimes unit that had two members resign following a December 2021 indictment of then-Sheriff Charles Lemon on assault and battery charges.

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9 Investigates is hearing from the former stepmother of the two women suspected of ambushing Lake County deputies Friday. Master Deputy Bradley Michael Link was killed in the attack and two other deputies were injured.

Suspects Cheyenne and Savannah Sulpizio were once Rochelle Eldridges step-daughters.

The Sulpizio sisters along with their stepfather Michael Sulpizio is accused of ambushing deputies Friday before committing suicide in their home. The Sulpizio sisters mother, Julie Sulpizio, is accused of luring deputies to the home where they were attacked.

Read: How to help Lake County deputies families following deadly ambush

Eldridge spoke to Investigative Reporter Ashlyn Webb, claiming she reported the family to the Florida Department of Children and Families years ago. She says she raised concerns about what was in the home and their ideology.

It shouldnt have happened. He shouldnt have had to be there. This. Once again, this was 100% avoidable. My heart breaks for his family, and there is absolutely no words that are ever going to make it okay. Im sorry for everything, Eldridge told 9 Investigates.

Read:

Sulpizio sisters legally adopted by Stepfather

Eldridge says she hasnt seen the two girls in 20 years.

Eldridge explained to 9 Investigates the long child support battle between her ex-husband, the girls biological father, and Julie Sulpizio, their mother.

She says he fought for time with his daughters, but ultimately, opted to allow Michael Sulpizio, Julies husband, to adopt the girls in 2007. The daughters were 5 and 6.

Eldridge says she begged her then-husband not to allow the adoption to happen. Eldridge says she wonders what life Savannah and Cheyenne would be if she and her ex-husband were allowed to be in their lives. She says she had concerns about Julie and Michael even when the girls were toddlers.

Read: 9 Investigates speaks with psychotherapist if Lake County woman will face a jury

Stepmother explains years of concerns with Sulpizios anti-government ideology

Eldridge tells 9 Investigates she reported Julie and Michael Sulpizio to the Florida Department of Children and Families at least twice over concerns of what the girls were exposed to in the house.

She first reported them around December 2003 and again in May 2019.

In an interview with 9 Investigates Sunday, she claimed she warned DCF of a number of concerns, including Michaels radical beliefs and the familys paranoia.

That he was anti-government. He had a ton of guns. The end of the world. He claimed that he had a bunker on that property, Eldridge said. She also said she was concerned about the girls access to the outside world because they were homeschooled, had no cell phone and minimal to no social life.

Read: UCF partners with Lake County to provide mental health support to deputies

A day after our interview, the Lake County Sheriffs Office confirmed much of what Eldridge said, including that the Sulpizio sisters were pulled out of middle school to be homeschooled. Julie Sulpizio claimed in an interview with investigators that she made the choice so they wouldnt be exposed to certain ideologies or beliefs.

Lake County Sheriffs Office also confirmed the bunker inside the home and end of world beliefs the family had, which Eldridge also claims she warned DCF of.

9 Investigates reached out to DCF, asking if this was ever investigated and if the agency visited the house. The agency said it is looking into it.

Eldridge says she only met Michael once or twice in person.

Read: Memorial service planned for Lake County deputy killed in the line of duty

He was just very arrogant, very rude. Male chauvinist, for lack of a better term, Eldridge said.

We also asked about Julies mental health.

I talked to Julie many times back in the day and even as a few years ago, she was very normal. People saw her on basis. She was rude and not pleasant but she wasnt nutty, Eldridge said.

She says for that reason she believes Julie Sulpizio should stand trial.

I believe its an act, Eldridge said. Especially now that a police officer has been murdered and others have been injured. She told him to go to the house. So because she told him to go there. Shes basically the reason the deputy is dead.

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Former Waupun warden, two prison officers plead not guilty in prison death

The former warden of Waupun Correctional Institution pleaded not guilty this week to one felony charge of misconduct in office.

Randall Hepp appeared in Dodge County Circuit Court for his arraignment Tuesday afternoon, along with two former correctional officers.

All three were charged in connection with the death of Donald W. Maier.

Maier, 62, died of probable dehydration and malnutrition on Feb. 22 after prison staff began intermittently shutting off the water to stop him from flooding his cell. The manner of his death was ruled a homicide.

On Tuesday, Jamall Rabb Russell, 39, pleaded not guilty to charges of abuse of residents of penal facilities and misconduct in public office, and Sarah Anne Margaret Ransbottom, 35, pleaded not guilty to a charge of misconduct in public office.

Scheduling conferences have been set for Hepp on Sept. 30 and Russell on Sept.17. Ransbottom's plea and sentencing hearing will take place on Sept. 26.

Hepp's attorney, Robert E. Webb, Jr. declined to comment. Attorneys for Ransbottom and Russell were not immediately available for comment.

In early June, Hepp, Russell and Ransbottom and six other correctional workers were arrested and charged with misconduct in office and abuse of residents of a penal facility in connection with the deaths of Maier and Cameron J. Williams, who died of a rare stroke after begging for help from staff in October of last year.

Three staff members pleaded not guilty last month during hearings. Three other staff members who were charged have yet to enter pleas.

Waupun has been the site of at least six in-custody deaths, including Maier and Williams, between June 2023 and August 2024.

On June 29, 2024, Dean Hoffmann, 60, died by suicide after nine days in solitary confinement. Hoffmann had a long documented history of bipolar disorder and suicidal thoughts, according to family members and medical records previously reviewed by the Journal Sentinel. Staff failed to give him his bipolar and antidepressant medications as prescribed more than three-quarters of the time, records show.

On Oct. 2, Tyshun Lemons, 30, died of an accidental fentanyl overdose.

No charges were filed in relation to the deaths of Hoffmann and Lemons.

Most recently, Jay J. Adkins, 66, died on May 23, and Christopher L. McDonald, 57, potentially died by suicide on Aug. 5, according to the Dodge County Sheriff's Office.

The Dodge County Medical Examiner has not responded to requests from the Journal Sentinel about the cause and manner of death in the cases of Adkins and McDonald.

Dodge County Sheriff Dale J. Schmidt has confirmed his office is currently investigating the two deaths.

Contact Vanessa Swales at 414-308-5881 or at vswales@gannett.com. Follow her on X @Vanessa_Swales.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Former Waupun warden, two officers plead not guilty in prison death
An armed child sexual assault suspect who was barricaded in a home in north Fort Worth died Wednesday after he shot a Tarrant County sheriffs deputy who tried to execute three felony arrest warrants, authorities said.

Deputy Todd Tipton was involved in a close-combat gunfight with the suspect and was shot three times. The deputy suffered a grazing wound to the back of the head, one wound to an arm and one to his lower back. He was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital and was released within hours, authorities said.

Its just miraculous. Just miraculous, Sheriff Bill Waybourn said outside the hospital.

During a standoff, Fort Worth police negotiators spoke with the suspect, who was barricaded in the home in the 2900 block of Elinor Street where deputies went to serve the arrest warrants, Chief Deputy Jennifer Gabbert said.

Fort Worth SWAT officers breached the home after the suspect claimed he had hostages, which apparently was false, Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes said. SWAT team officers entered the house and exchanged gunfire with the man, Noakes said.

Law enforcement, including a SWAT team, responds to an active scene near North Beach Street where a sheriffs deputy was shot Wednesday afternoon in Fort Worth.

Police said they could not say Wednesday afternoon whether the suspect was killed by officers or by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Noakes said SWAT entered the house only because the suspect referred to hostages and that officers would not have breached it and would have continued trying to negotiate had the man not given them reason to believe he was going to hurt or kill someone else.

There is a violent criminal who was actively trying to kill officers and deputies today, and he is no longer here, Noakes said.

Tipton is a veteran deputy assigned to a unit whose members search for fugitives and execute arrest warrants.

Before the deputy was released, Waybourn said: Hes alert. Hes conscious. Hes talking. Hes seeing his family, and were pretty happy about that.

TCSO Deputy was shot while serving a warrant this afternoon. He is at the hospital in stable condition.

Officers still on scene. Avoid the area of 28th and N. Beach St. in Haltom City until further notice. pic.twitter.com/i3sU7tOqdI  Tarrant County SO (@tarrantcountyso) August 7, 2024

The suspect, whose name has not been released, was a 40-year-old man. He fired upon deputies from inside the home as they approached the residence about noon, according to the sheriffs office. Authorities said they believed the suspect was wounded when law enforcement returned fire.

Waybourn said the warrants were on charges of sexual assault of a child, indecency with a child and unlawful restraint of a child.

Law enforcement on the 2900 block of Elinor Street near the home where a 40-year-old man barricaded himself after shooting a Tarrant County sheriffs deputy three times on Wednesday, August 7, 2024.

Leah Wagner, a Fort Worth police spokesperson, said about 4 p..m. that there is no active ongoing threat to the community but that the scene is still active.

Today has been kind of a scary day for everyone in this community, she said before reassuring that there is no longer any danger.

Naokes said some residents were evacuated from the neighborhood during the standoff and are now being allowed back into their homes.

Law enforcement responds to the scene where a Tarrant County sheriffs deputy was shot three times in Fort Worth on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. The deputy was shot while serving three felony warrants related to the sexual assault of a child, authorities said.

Fort Worth police and Tarrant County Sheriffs Office SWAT officers responded to the scene along with officers from numerous other North Texas police departments.

Haltom City police said in a social media post shortly before 1 p.m. that officers were actively engaged with the suspect. Residents were asked to avoid the area between 28th Street and Chesser Boyer Road, just west of Haltom City, and residents already in the area were told to shelter in place, police said.

Law enforcement responds to the scene where a Tarrant County sheriffs deputy was shot three times in Fort Worth on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. The deputy was shot while serving three felony warrants related to the sexual assault of a child, authorities said.

Every time you go out to serve a warrant, theres somebody who knows theyre going to jail that might not want to go to jail and its very dangerous, Gabbert said.

Fort Worth police will lead the investigation into the shooting, she said. The standoff was near the border with Haltom City, within the Fort Worth city limits.

Earlier today, a Deputy with the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office was shot 3 times while serving a warrant. He is at the hospital now, and it appears his injuries are not life-threatening. Please join me in praying for our Deputy and all of the men and women of the  Tim O'Hare, Tarrant County Judge (@TimothyOHare) August 7, 2024

Please join me in praying for our Deputy and all of the men and women of the Tarrant County Sheriffs Office, Tarrant County Judge Tim OHare said in a post on X.

Gov. Greg Abbott asked Texans to join him in praying for Deputy Tiptons swift recovery and for his loved ones.

Our hearts go out to Tarrant County Sheriffs Deputy Todd Tipton who was shot in the line of duty earlier today, Abbott wrote in a post on X. Violence against police officers will never be tolerated in Texas.

Two other first responders who assisted during the standoff were treated at the scene for minor injuries, according to MedStar. The SWAT officers were injured by glass when they broke a window to make entry to the house, Noakes said.

A Star-Telegram photojournalist heard what sounded like several gunshots during the standoff.

According to the Fort Worth Fire Department, at 1:15 p.m. there were reports of smoke coming from the home. Firefighters staged in the area until they were cleared to respond. A working fire was declared at 2:14 p.m. but was quickly brought under control, the department said. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Earlier today, a Deputy with the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office was shot 3 times while serving a warrant. He is at the hospital now, and it appears his injuries are not life-threatening. Please join me in praying for our Deputy and all of the men and women of the  Tim O'Hare, Tarrant County Judge (@TimothyOHare) August 7, 2024

Ive received word that one of our Tarrant County deputies was shot while executing a warrant.



This situation reminds us of the inherent dangers many law enforcement confront in their daily duties.



Lets keep this officer in our prayers.  Tarrant County Commissioner Alisa Simmons (@CommALSimmons) August 7, 2024

Bonnie Brae Elementary School was using a controlled release Wednesday afternoon because of the police standoff. A Star-Telegram photojournalist heard an announcement from the school instructing students to gather with their belongings in the library for the controlled release.

Law enforcement responds to an active scene on North Beach Street near where a sheriffs deputy was shot Wednesday afternoon in Fort Worth.

Officers from Fort Worth, Richland Hills, North Richland Hills, and Tarrant County constables were at the scene.

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Star-Telegram photojournalists Joel Solis and Chris Torres contributed to this report.
Early results showed JW Foster and Wayne Fournier leading in two primary races for Thurston County Commissioner, an indicator of how the general election results might turn out in November.

JW Foster, an independent, led Rachel Dreon, a Democrat, in the race for Position 2, according to initial results released by the county Auditor Tuesday night.

Whoever ultimately wins the District 2 race in November will replace Gary Edwards, a two-term commissioner and former Thurston County Sheriff. Edwards plans to retire after he concludes his current term.

In the Position 4 race, voters favored Fournier, a Democrat who won his seat last year after the county commission expanded to five members.

Commissioner Carolina Mejia, a Democrat, ran for reelection unopposed. She had garnered 95.8% of the vote in early returns Tuesday.

All county commissioner candidates will advance to the November general election. Auditor Mary Hall said nonpartisan races appear on the ballot regardless of if there are two or fewer candidates.

The initial count from the Auditors office shows voter turnout was about 18.8% of 200,449 registered voters, but more ballots will arrive in the mail and be counted in the coming days.

On primary election day 2020, the last presidential election year, turnout was about 33.5% of the countys then 190,200 registered voters, according to data from the Auditors Office. Turnout reached about 56.6% by the final tally.

Hall said her staff had about 20,000 ballots in house that have yet to be counted. When factoring those ballots, she said turnout will be closer to about 28%. And theres even more ballots coming in from ballot boxes across the county, Hall said.

Fingers crossed that we have really good turnout, Hall said. Im predicting that were going to be at about 45% based on historic elections that are primaries in presidential years.

For comparison, turnout for the 2023 primary election reached 30.9% of the countys 191,908 registered voters, according to the final certified results.

Thurston County will post updated results nearly daily until the county certifies the results on Aug. 20.

The District 2 Race

The primary election results for Thurston County Commissioner District 2 race showed Foster with 3,384 votes as of Tuesday night. Dreon followed with 2,487 votes.

Foster waited for the results while in his backyard with his wife and dogs. He said he felt satisfied with the tally so far and hes ready to bring his message to the rest of the county in the general election.

Its heartening to me to know that my resume has spoken to the voters and they trust me to do a good job, Foster said. I hope the county electorate will feel the same way in November.

Dreon said she gathered with fellow Democrats at the home of former Washington State Senator Karen Fraser to await the primary results. Though she wasnt in the lead Tuesday night, Dreon called the results a strong showing.

The general election is really the next step, Dreon said. Weve really built a strong team. Thank you to the supporters. Thank you for getting out and getting the vote done. I really think we have what we need to take this in November.

Foster became interim mayor of Yelm in 2016 and then won a four-year term in the 2017 election. He previously served on the Yelm City Council from 2011 to 2016.

He previously told The Olympian that he decided to run for county commissioner after taking a break from public service and seeing the county commission expand to five members.

He said he chose to run as an independent because he has supported people and issues on both sides of the political divide and he feels the commission should be non-partisan.

Foster lists fiscal responsibility, accountability with residents, economic vitality, affordable housing, and public safety as his top issues on his website.

The list also includes environmental responsibility, support programs for vulnerable people, property rights as they relate to development and interlocal relationships.

Dreon describes herself as a progressive Democrat and proud 2004 graduate of Thurston County Drug Court.

She previously told The Olympian she has a profession background in behavioral health and lived experience with many of the housing and substance use issues that affect many county residents.

Dreon currently works for King County as their Department of Community and Human Services Behavioral Health Workforce Investments Manager. She also serves as the co-chair of Thurston County Treatment Sales Tax Advisory Committee.

She has a masters degree in public administration from The Evergreen State College and a resume with state and local leadership roles, according to her website.

Dreon lists transparency, fiscal responsibility, housing, homelessness, public health and safety, environment and agriculture as her top priorities if election, per her website.

District 2 stretches across Thurston Countys eastern border and includes parts of northeast Lacey as well as the City of Yelm.

The District 4 race

In the District 4 race, Fournier led with 3,802 votes as of Tuesday night. But Rob Laymon, who stated no party preference, was close behind with 3,503 votes.

Fournier said he felt good about the results, especially compared to last year when he was initially down in the primary.

I think it kind of speaks to the work that Ive done in the last year, Fournier said. Theres always two winners in the primary, so Im just looking forward to the general election.

He thanked voters for their support this year and said hes going to keep working hard for them.

Laymon did not respond to a request for comment.

Fournier is currently serving out his first term as a county commissioner. He won his seat last year after the commission expanded to five members.

His initial term was made short so it could align with the four-year rotation for county commissioner seats. Whoever wins this seat will go on to serve a four-year term.

Fournier is a Tenino native who began his career as a volunteer firefighter and later served as mayor of Tenino from 2015 to 2023.

If re-elected, he has pledged to seek practical solutions, foster sustainable growth and work collaboratively with people in the county, according to his website.

Laymon describes himself as an everyday citizen and not a politician, per his statement in the voter pamphlet. He listed electrician, water management, plumber and well driller among his profession experience.

If elected, his statement indicates he will work to ensure property taxes go towards maintaining streets and roads and he will seek to cut back property regulations and permitting fees.

He added he will offer a hand-up rather than a hand-out to people experiencing homelessness, mental illness and drug use.

District 4 covers southwest Thurston County including south Tumwater and the cities of Tenino, Bucoda and Rainier.

Thurston County Fire Protection District No. 8 Proposition No. 1

A proposition for Thurston County Fire Protection District No. 8 (South Bay) appeared to be passing in early returns Tuesday night.

There were 1,155 votes in favor of the proposition and 837 votes against it, per the results.

If approved by voters, the district will be authorized to levy a maintenance and operations excess levy of $1.9 million in 2024, $2 million in 2026, $2.1 million in 2027 and $2.2 million 2027, according to the explanation in the voter pamphlet.

With this excess levy, the districts total estimated 2024 tax levy will be about $2.01 per $1,000 of assessed value. The explanation indicates this money will help the fire district maintain its service levels.
Four civilians killed, one more injured in morning Russian attacks on Donetsk Oblast

The aftermath of the Russian attack on Donetsk Oblast on 7 August. Photo: Donetsk Oblast Military Administration

Four civilians were killed and one more injured in the Russian strikes on Donetsk Oblast on the morning of 7 August.

Source: Vadym Filashkin, the Head of Donetsk Oblast Military Administration

Quote: "Four people have been killed and one injured in an attack on Donetsk Oblast. The outskirts of [the town of] Marinka are under constant enemy fire. One of such bombardments claimed the lives of a 65-year-old woman and a 64-year-old man in [the settlement of] Antonivka this morning."

Details: Filashkin noted that another man had been injured in Antonivka and was being provided with the necessary medical care in the nearest hospital.

Furthermore, two civilians  a 55-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman  were killed in a Russian attack on the village of Mykhailivka in Novohrodivka hromada. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories  ed.]

Filashkin urged residents of Donetsk Oblast to be responsible and evacuate in a timely manner.

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Bloomberg Philanthropies announced a $600 million gift to endow four HBCU medical schools. Former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg announced the gift at the annual meeting of the National Medical Association.

This gift will empower new generations of Black doctors to create a healthier and more equitable future for our country, Bloomberg said in a press release.

Additionally, $175 million will go to Howard University College of Medicine, Meharry Medical College and Morehouse School of Medicine. A $75 million grant will be awarded to Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science. Xavier University of Louisiana will be awarded $5 million.

As Blavity reported in May, Xavier University partnered with Ochsner Health to build a medical school. The move follows Bloombergs $1 billion commitment to Johns Hopkins University. A decision has yet to be made about how Bloomberg Philanthropies will use the latest gift to their endowments.

Garnesha Ezediaro, the head of Bloomberg Philanthropies Greenwood Initiative told CBS, When we talked about helping to secure and support the next generation of Black doctors, we meant that literally.

UTIBE Essien, an assistant professor at UCLAs David Geffen School of Medicine, said this opens doors for Black people to feel safe in the hands of medical practitioners.

Its hard for some of the trainees who are thinking about going into this space to see some of that backlash and pursue it, Essian said. Again, I think we get into this spiral where in five to 10 years were going to see a concerning drop in the numbers of diverse people in our field.
MILFORD  Framingham's Adult ESL (FAESL) program is set to expand this year after it landed a $300,000 grant to boost its Milford programming.

FAESL obtained the $300,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, a philanthropic fund established by late 19th century steel magnate Andrew Carnegie in 1911 to support education programs throughout the world. The funding will be used to add seven ESL (English as a second language) classes; upgrade classroom technology; hire six new part-time staff members; and employ a full-time administrator.

"Education is the most powerful tool in empowering community members to reach their full potential," said Kevin O'Connor, executive director of FAESL, in a prepared statement. "Our shared goal with the Carnegie Corporation is to help newcomers integrate their talents and energy into their communities. Some people might say the American Dream is fading, but in our classes and the lives of our students, that dream is very much alive  you can feel it."

Students at the Framingham Adult ESL Program at in-person morning classes, March 16, 2023.

'Strong coalition of services': Framingham Adult ESL's new Milford classes are immediately popular

Noah Sullivan, manager of special projects for FAESL, told the Daily News the grant will allow the group to increase enrollment. FAESL now enrolls 1,200 students; the Carnegie Corporation grant will make room for 1,500, according to Sullivan.

"I remember when we did the enrollment lottery last year, we had 80 spaces, that's what we had allotted in our funding for, and 300 students showed up," Sullivan recalled. "So we knew that there was a demand in Milford for sure.

"I can't express how amazing this grant has been for us," he added. "We were able to expand the number of classes, we were able to hire a full-time coordinator for the site, as well to work there and hire a lot more teachers."

Sullivan said the increased demand comes from immigration into MetroWest and Greater Milford. Framingham and Milford are both hubs for the Brazilian community. In addition, recent waves of migrants into the state are causing an increased need for ESL services, according to a press release from FAESL.

"People hear about Massachusetts from other parts of the U.S. and they hear what Massachusetts attempts to do  teaching English and life skills and helping people get citizenship and contribute to their communities," Sullivan said.

The expanding Milford programming comes after programs began there just last year. FAESL had learned that about 100 students were commuting to Framingham classes from Milford, which is in Worcester County. The organization determined it made more sense to start classes in Milford in order to connect students with agencies servicing their county and to prevent students from having to travel to Framingham.

What does Framingham's ESL classes teach?

FAESL instructs more than 1,000 students. In addition to English, it offers classes in citizenship, computer technology, family literacy, adult basic education and high school equivalency. It also advises students of Middlesex County programs such as those for eviction diversion, food pantries and health insurance services, which helps keep students coming to classes.

The new program will provide 200 hours of instruction.

FAESL program to expand: Milford ESL students no longer need to travel to Framingham for class

In-person classes are set to begin on Sept. 10 in both Framingham and Milford. Online classes start the week before.

After winning seats in the lottery, students were required to take a placement test, and were then either placed in a regular class or put on a waiting list. Students must complete 80% of their classes in order to continue with the program.

FAESL operates as a department of Framingham Public Schools, which provides classroom space for evening classes at Fuller Middle School. In Milford, classes were previously held at Stacy Middle School, but due to increased demand, classes are now expected to be held at Milford High School.

This article originally appeared on The Milford Daily News: $300K Carnegie Corporation grant boosts adult ESL program in Milford
 Flash

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will serve as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, local media reported early Wednesday.

The decision was taken at a meeting of President Mohammed Shahabuddin with chiefs of the three services and the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement to finalize the outline of the interim government on Tuesday night, Bangladesh's state-run news agency BSS reported.

The head of state gave consent to the proposal of the meeting, the president's Press Secretary Md. Joynal Abedin told the news agency.

Shahabuddin said other members of the interim government would be finalized in consultation with other political parties of the country.

According to the report, Shahabuddin said during the meeting that as Bangladesh is passing through a deep crisis and in order to resolve the problem, an interim government must be formed as soon as possible. He urged everyone to work together to resolve the crisis.

Earlier Tuesday, Shahabuddin dissolved the parliament, paving the way for the formation of an interim government following the fall of the government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Bangladesh is facing uncertainty after the resignation and fleeing of Hasina on Monday.
David Houde said going back to college after dropping out was the "best thing" he ever did. David Houde

A Gen Xer went back to college five years after dropping out in the hopes of boosting his income.

He struggled to find a high-paying job even with a degree, but the journey was eventually worth it.

He's making nearly $150,000 as a software engineer and paid off his student debt.

David Houde feels like he's made it  and he thinks it wouldn't have been possible without his college degree. But it's been a long, winding road to this point.

"If you knew me in my 20s you wouldn't think I would have been successful," the 48-year-old, who's based in Michigan, told Business Insider via email.

After graduating from high school in the mid-1990s, Houde enrolled in a four-year college but said he dropped out before his second semester after struggling in his classes.

For the next five years, Houde worked various "dead-end jobs," including door-to-door salesman, gas station clerk, fast food worker, landscape laborer, and delivery driver. He said his favorite of these jobs involved making glasses in an optical lab, but he saw no path for advancing or increasing his pay.

Around 1999, at roughly the age of 23, he decided to go back to school. By 2006, he'd earned an associate degree in computer information systems and a bachelor's degree in computer science.

A degree didn't immediately solve all of his problems: He struggled to find a job and pay off his student debt  and even had to withdraw from a 401(k) from a past job. But ultimately, the journey was worth it.

Houde is making nearly $150,000 annually as a software engineer, according to documents viewed by Business Insider. He said this income has allowed him to pay off roughly $45,000 in student debt in about eight years, travel regularly with his wife, and for the first time in his life, buy a new car before his old one breaks down.

"For me, going back to college was the best thing that I ever did," he said.

Houde is among the many Americans who have grappled with the same fork-in-the-road life choice: Should I go to college? In recent years, the cost of a four-year education and job opportunities for workers without degrees have led many people to decide that college isn't worth it. A Pew Research survey of over 5,000 US adults conducted late last year found that 76% of Americans thought a college degree wasn't worth the cost if the student has to take on debt  this sentiment has also shown up in declining enrollment figures over the past decade. What's more, paying for college doesn't guarantee employment  graduates can be subject to the whims of the job market.

Story continues

However, for many people, going to college can be a great financial decision. The typical graduate has a considerably higher income and is less likely to be unemployed than people without degrees. Some areas of study tend to be more lucrative than others and student debt burdens can offset some of the benefits of a higher income, but in the long run, getting a degree has paid off for many Americans, including Houde.

Houde shared how he went from dropping out of college to earning a six-figure income  and why he feels like he got lucky.

A college degree helped him eventually land a high salary

When he first enrolled in college, Houde didn't have any idea what he would major in. But after he dropped out, he said he realized he was good at working with computers.

He'd taken some basic computer courses in the past, but he said his eureka moment came one night when he helped a friend with their college programming course.

"I was able to fix her code," he said. "That was pretty much the moment I figured out what I should be doing and that I needed to return to college."

Houde enrolled in a local community college and in 2002, he received his associate's degree in computer information systems.

But he wasn't sold on the benefits of a degree quite yet because he struggled to find a job.

In Houde's estimation, the early 2000s were the "second worst time" to be looking for a software industry role in the last 25 years  he attributed this to the software industry hiring slowdown after "Y2K" and the temporary impacts of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the broader job market.

So he decided to go back to school again, pursuing his bachelor's degree part-time. By the age of 31, he'd graduated with a degree in computer science.

This time, Houde graduated into what he called the single worst job market for software industry workers of the last quarter-century  the Great Recession was beginning to take hold.

Houde eventually found a job that paid $32,500 a year, but he struggled to get by financially, in part because he had student debt and mortgage payments to grapple with. He said he was eventually forced to cash out $16,000 from a 401(k) he'd accumulated from a previous job.

"There were so many times that I felt like I was just digging myself a bigger and bigger hole financially," he said.

But over time, things steadily improved as his income rose to the six-figure level it's at today. About eight years after receiving his bachelor's degree, he paid off his student debt.

In hindsight, Houde said going to college and taking on the debt was necessary to put himself in the position he is now.

"Somehow I persisted and now live a very different life and have an amazing salary," he said, adding, "I'm entirely grateful that things worked out the way they did for me. I know not everyone is as lucky."

However, Houde continues to be somewhat uncertain about the value of pursuing additional education. In 2016, about a decade after he graduated with his bachelor's degree, he decided to pursue an MBA. But he said he's not sure it was worth it because it hasn't helped him advance in his career or boost his pay.

"I'm 50-50 on success going back to school," he said. "My bachelor's did wonders for my career. My MBA, not so much."

Have you gone back to college later in life? Have you found financial success without a college degree? Reach out to this reporter at jzinkula@businessinsider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
In any and every corner of Ukraine, one would be very hard-pressed to find an ordinary person, civilian or military, who doesnt want this cruel and brutal war to end.

Ukrainians want nothing more than to be able to live without fear of night-time missile attacks, to see their loved ones return home from the front not just for a short vacation but for good, and most of all, to stop the neverending conveyor belt of funerals and obituaries for the countrys best and bravest people.

But Russias maximalist aims havent gone anywhere; in fact, there is a good chance that Vladimir Putin thinks they are more in reach than at any time since the first weeks of the full-scale invasion.

As much as the resumption of U.S. military aid flows has alleviated the ammunition situation and bolstered Ukraines air defense, Ukraines manpower problem has only worsened.

After long periods holding their sectors in the face of near-endless onslaughts from artillery, drones, glide bombs, and infantry assaults, Ukrainian brigades are having to defend the same lengths of the front line with less and less people.

Just a few weeks ago, I saw this with my own eyes in Donetsk Oblast: the company we were embedded with, part of one of Ukraines most experienced fighting brigades, was simply not getting replenished.

Two weeks after we visited, three infantrymen in the company were killed and one seriously wounded.

These people are Ukraines most valuable resource, one that outside support cannot fund and one that is running low.

For a while, mounting losses could be concealed behind a largely stable front line and the advancement of drone warfare, but over the last few months, deep cracks have begun to show in Ukraines defense of its hundreds of kilometers front line.

As much as it has lifted moods in Ukraine and embarrassed Moscow, it remains a long shot to hope that Kyiv's surprise incursion into Kursk Oblast could drastically change the current dynamic in the east.

Read also: Russias advance toward key eastern highway threatens Ukraines grip of Donetsk Oblast

Russia is learning to target Ukraines least effective, most dysfunctional units for their offensive, which in turn compromises the flanks of more capable brigades.

Botched unit rotations and localized collapses of defensive lines have led to Russia making small surges forward in key sectors of the front line, most notably east of Pokrovsk, a major strategic hub in Donetsk Oblast, and around Toretsk and Niu-York, two cities which had seen little fighting until then.

Meanwhile, in the international arena, a campaign for peace between Ukraine and Russia is gaining momentum, led by the worst people imaginable for such a role.

Notorious sympathizer and friend of dictators, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has worked diligently to block and water down European efforts to help Ukraine stay alive, traveled on his famous peace mission to Kyiv, Moscow, and Beijing in June.

Although he hasnt made public the specific terms of his idea of a peace deal and admitted himself that the positions of Russia and Ukraine were still very far apart, Orban has dealt another major blow to European and NATO unity on Ukraine, normalizing the idea that negotiations should be an end to themselves, whatever the cost.

Then, of course, there is Donald Trump. While U.S. President Joe Bidens withdrawal from the 2024 election race has made the convicted felons return to office much less of a certainty, it remains a real threat to Ukraines survival.

Vladimir Putin and Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrive to deliver a joint press statement following their talks at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia on July 5, 2024. (Alexander Nemenov / AFP via Getty Images)

Republican presidential candidate former U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks during a campaign rally at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada, USA on Dec. 17, 2023. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Even if Trump failed to pull his political levers enough to force his ceasefire in 24 hours as he claims he could, over time, deliberately cutting off military aid would be more disastrous for Ukraine than the last hold-up, further exacerbating the manpower situation.

All this considered, the loss of territory at an increasing rate and the increasing volume of calls for peace from the outside are not a good combination.

Especially when the calls for peace refer to a hypothetical deal with a country whose war openly aims to end the existence of sovereign, independent Ukraine.

The idea of peace should not be taboo.

There is a reason that President Volodymyr Zelensky has stopped mentioning Ukraines 1991 borders, including at the Peace Summit in Switzerland in June, and there is a reason why Kyiv is now looking to invite Russian representatives to the next one.

But not all peace is equal. Much more important than the fact of peace negotiations themselves is that of the balance of power between the two sides going into them.

In Ukraine, this balance of power will shape both the terms upon which a ceasefire could be reached, whether those terms are actually carried out, and how likely it is that Russia will feel it can invade again when the time is right.

Ukraine has done well in campaigning for international support and signing security agreements with most of its most powerful Western partners. But these agreements fall short of being hard, Article 5-style guarantees, and when push comes to shove, it would be wishful thinking to expect that the broad extent of military and political support to Ukraine would be any higher than it is now in the case of a repeat invasion.

Put very simply, looking forward through the rest of the year and into 2025, there are two very simple scenarios for entering into peace negotiations.

One in which Russia is convinced that continuing to advance on the battlefield, continuing their conquest of as much of Ukraine as they want, is no longer an option.

If we can reach that point, it will still be Ukraines choice when and how to enter negotiations, but Kyiv can do so with much more confidence that they can secure a peace that will last.

It might be painful for Ukrainians to come to terms with, especially for those under occupation, but it could give the country the reprieve it needs to rebuild and gain strength while not threatened by a desperate daily fight for survival.

The other, much darker scenario, is one in which Moscow feels it holds all the power.

If Kyiv eventually has to beg for peace, whether its because of U.S. aid being cut off or not, the prognosis for Ukraine both now and the future would be nothing short of catastrophic.

Russias demands would likely include territorial concessions: at minimum Crimea, Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts in full, and if Putins own words are to be believed, perhaps even the whole of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts, which Russia illegally claimed back in September 2022.

So, what is to be done?

The answer should be simple enough: Kyiv and its partners should do everything possible to strengthen their resolve, get their respective acts together, and put maximum pressure on Moscow.

Putin needs to see his dreams of further conquest as doomed to end only in bloody failure and instability for Russia.

This is not in any way an impossible task.

There are signs that the Russian military is hurting: just on July 31, Moscow more than doubled the signing bonus offered to new contract soldiers, evidence that the pool of men willing to be shipped off to near-certain death in Ukraine for a quick buck is running out.

Meanwhile, according to independent analysts, Moscows huge Soviet-era stocks of tanks and other armored vehicles are being depleted faster than they can be replaced, a problem that could eventually cripple Russias ability to effectively attack.

Ukraine is at a huge battlefield advantage by being firmly on the defensive, especially since Russian commanders apathetic attitude to the lives of their personnel inflates the defenders advantage, likely beyond the traditional 3-to-1 ratio.

Soldier of 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov walks in the trench in Serebryansky Forest in Luhansk Oblast, Ukraine on Oct. 12, 2023. (Elizabeth Servatynska/zov Media/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)

But Ukraine needs to do its best to use that advantage, because with Russia boasting the upper hand almost everywhere else, being on the defense alone is not enough.

Since the launch of Russias full-scale invasion, Ukraines overall performance on the battlefield has always been a function of the Wests support (weaponry, ammunition, and training) on one hand, and the human resources and leadership inside Ukraine on the other.

Sometimes, issues with one side of the coin are more noticeable than with the other, such as when Ukraine was forced to fight without U.S. ammunition deliveries for months on end at great cost in human lives and territory.

But at this point, it is clear that both have a lot to work on.

On the side of Ukraines partners, what is needed is the end of hesitation and the firm signaling to Russia that Ukraine being forced into negotiating from a losing position is simply not going to happen.

Weve been over all of this before, but this means more weapons deliveries, expanded training programs for Ukrainian recruits, tightening sanctions on Moscow in every way possible, and, of course, the permission to strike any relevant target inside Russia with long-range Western weapons.

Braver options, like that hastily proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron to station some French troops in Ukraine in non-combat roles, should also be looked at more and taken seriously.

Overall, the West must finally shake its fear of escalation and come to terms with the fact that this war will not conveniently freeze or go away so long as Russia sees a path to victory.

But on top of the Wests shortcomingsand this could come as a shock to some people observing the war from far awayfrom inside Ukraine, it is becoming more and more clear how systemic issues inside the countrys military and political leadership are hurting the countrys war effort.

The fact that eight months after the first draft law was introduced, mobilization is still struggling to replenish Ukrainian units with capable, trained personnel is one thing: taking tens, if not hundreds, of thousands more people off to war, was always going to be Ukraines most painful internal challenge.

But here in Ukraine, serious concerns are being raised more and more about how these people are being used.

Over June and July, a new scandal inside the Ukrainian commandwhether concerning some brigade commanders who themselves gave orders with little regard for the lives of their soldiers or others who were under threat of dismissal for refusing to follow such orders from higher commandarose almost every week.

These developments come not long after one of Ukraines respected commanders, Bohdan Krotevych of the Azov Brigade went public with a complaint against much-maligned General Yurii Sodol, appointed to a top position by Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, whom Krotevych accused of killing more Ukrainian soldiers than any Russian general.

The center of Toretsk, under Russian shelling in Toretsk, Ukraine, on July 3, 2024. (George Ivanchenko / The Kyiv Independent)

This pattern is in jarring contrast to the official communication of the war's development from Zelensky and the military, which seems to exist in a world where the war is in a permanent state of tough but stable, even when the lines on the map say otherwise.

It remains to be seen how these confrontations will be finally resolved and whether or not systemic changes will be brought about, but until then, the penchant of top commanders being worried more about their positions than the lives of the rank and file is deeply worrying.

For everyone involved and invested in Ukraines struggle for existence, but especially for its leaders, maintaining a clear grip on reality was, is, and will be, crucial.

In the industrial-scale war on our hands here, the only reality that matters is the reality on the battlefield. The battlefield is where Russia is convinced it can win its war, and the battlefield is where it must be convinced that it cannot.

And so, whether we are talking about high-level strategic deliberations in Washington, Brussels, and Kyiv, bilateral communication channels, or information policy vis-a-vis the public, it all has to be closely tied to that battlefield reality.

Kyiv and the West must not let themselves sleepwalk into a losing war in Ukraine; for Ukraine and the free world, there is still so much to lose.

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: Francis Farrell answers questions about war in Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
WYOMING, Mich. (WOOD)  A Wyoming pizzeria is closing after more than two decades.

Frankie Vs Sicilian Pizza and Grill, located at 1420 28th St. near Burlingame Avenue in Wyoming, has been sold to a developer as the restaurants owners plan to semi-retire.

Frankie Vs was first opened in 2001 by Frank and Wanda Vitale, a couple with a long history of working in the restaurant industry, according to a release. Both had worked at pizzerias owned by their families  one called Vitales Pizza Queen and the other called Joes Pizza King  and the two bought their first pizzeria in 1988, three years after marrying.

Throughout the years at Frankie Vs, they employed nieces, nephews and their kids friends. The often hosted dinners for sport teams, donated catering for funerals and hosted banquets.

Inside WOODTV.com: Building West Michigan

Frankie Vs in Wyoming. (Courtesy)

They say the community supported them through hardships like the recession and the pandemic. It also supported the couple through the death of their oldest son, Joey Vitale.

We will never forget the support we received through this tragedy in our lives, Frank Vitale said in the release.

After decades of serving up pizza to regulars, hearing chants of Lets Go Blue, and working with their kids, the couple has made the decision to semi-retire. They will continue to cater and may offer takeout, but they have sold the restaurant property to developer Magnus Capital Partners.

Although it is bittersweet, we feel strongly that this is the right time, Frank Vitale said. Weve had an amazing 23 years running Frankie Vs with our children and grandchildren growing up here. We have also been a part of so many of the families that grew up with us. There have been countless birthdays, showers, retirements, anniversaries, celebrations of life and even four weddings within these walls. It was truly an honor for us to host so many families and their special occasions.

Frankie Vs in Wyoming. (Courtesy)

Frankie Vs is set to remain open for a little bit longer. One of the last events will be the restaurants Metro Cruise party. This years Metro Cruise is set to take place from Aug. 22 through Aug. 24.

Magnus Capital Partners plans on using the property for the third phase of HoM Flats at 28 West, a housing development that currently has around 400 housing units.

Magnus Capital is working on the project in partnership with the city of Wyomings plans for a City Center development. The City Center will include a pedestrian bridge across 28th Street, connecting to 4.6 miles of paved trails, and a public plaza.

Bridge Street development would have 148 apartments, roof deck, cafe

While details of the HoM Flats at 28 West are still in the works, Vishal Arora, CEO and founder of Magnus Capital Partners, told News 8 it would have a focus on amenities and building community.

HoM Flats from Magnus Capital Partners. (Courtesy)

HoM Flats at 28 West already has several amenities, including an art studio, a gym with a yoga studio, a coworking space, dog parks and a playground.

HoM Flats is  new construction, best in class workforce housing that is heavily amenitized, Arora told News 8. The units are open plan, beautifully laid out. They have amenities that many of other housing options dont have unless you go to the very high end, things like kitchen islands and washer dryers in the units.

The housing complex also helps support local businesses through things like a summer market happening on Friday and its Flats PASS Program, which encourages residents to patronize local businesses through discounts.

HoM Flats from Magnus Capital Partners. (Courtesy)

HoM Flats from Magnus Capital Partners. (Courtesy)

HoM Flats from Magnus Capital Partners. (Courtesy)

Arora said he hopes the partnership between Magnus Capital and the city of Wyoming will be a good example of how public and private stakeholders can work together to create something really great for the community.

Magnus always wanted to create positive impact on the communities that it was investing in. And for us, its not just about putting up buildings and units, thats just really just step one, he said. The opportunity is to actually make that impact, to actually start to wire our community into the broader community. Because the community at large  recognize the need for that housing type.

His said his team has built a yearslong relationship and a sense of trust with the Vitales.

The Vitales had options. They didnt need to sell to us, they chose to sell to us and were grateful for that, he said. I think they did so, they chose to do so because they trusted who they were selling to.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  Franklin County public school districts are entering a new school year for the first time since Gov. Mike DeWine signed legislation regarding cellphone use in schools.

In May, DeWine signed House Bill 250, requiring every public school to adopt policies.. Although schools were asked to draft policies over the summer, they are not yet required to enforce them. Final policies must be completed by next July, ahead of the next school year.

School district can enforce pro-LGBTQ+ policy, court rules

Local school districts will create the policies that work best in their environments and for their students, but the core mission of this bill is clear: minimize screen time during school time, DeWine said.

However, many Franklin County districts are getting ahead of things. Although many school districts have had policies in place for a few years, districts like South-Western and Whitehall City Schools approved new policies this summer.

South-Westerns board passed a policy June 10. Students can use personal devices on the school bus, before and after school, during lunch and between classes. Any other time, devices must be silenced and kept out of sight. During afterschool activities, phones must be out of sight and powered off completely.

Whitehall City Schools approved a policy July 11 that requires devices to be turned off and kept in designated spaces throughout the school day, like their lockers. Grandview Heights passed a similar policy.

Everything to know about public school bus schedules in Franklin County

These policies are similar to many districts existing guidelines for phone use. Students at Bexley schools are instructed to keep their personal devices in their lockers or backpacks, a policy implemented back in 2019. Columbus City Schools, Canal Winchester and Upper Arlington have similar limitations.

Students need an excuse to disconnect, and we are that excuse, Bexleys policy says.

Although districts can create their policies, DeWine released a model policy for schools, which prohibits any cell phone use at school. In the sample policy, it is recommended that students keep their phones in their backpacks or lockers.

Some districts are going further and looking at creating a completely cell phone-free environment. Pickerington Local School District families received word that a new phone policy is coming, which would ask students to leave cell phones at home. However, Superintendent Chris Briggs said this was released incorrectly and has been removed.

Briggs said the board is revisiting its current policy. If it is approved, Briggs said, the intent and the why will be communicated to parents.

List: 2024 back-to-school dates around Columbus and central Ohio

Our goal is to reduce distractions, increase face-to-face interactions, enhance safety and privacy, and improve mental health, Briggs said.

Reynoldsburg students are not permitted to bring phones to school this year. According to district policy, students may only bring personal devices if their parents sign a Cell Phone Policy Form and get the exception approved. Even then, students must still turn off their phones and make sure they are stored not on their person.

These are stricter policies than those previously celebrated by DeWine, such as Dublin City Schools requirement that phones are completely powered off at school, even during lunch. DeWine liked the policy so much, he signed the bill into law at Dublins Karrer Middle School.

Human contact is a need for all of us, no matter your age, Dublin City School Board member Diana Rigby said. These children have been through something that we could never even imagine that they would experience.

Hilliard City Schools have a more lenient policy, allowing students to use them with instructor permission. Only sixth graders are required to leave their phones in their lockers. Westerville students also need permission to use their phones.

Most districts offer exceptions for special circumstances, such as medical needs, which typically must be approved by a principal.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  A Frederick County man was found guilty of assaulting an officer while wielding a flagpole during the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.

Adam Ryan Obest, 43, of Thurmont, Md., was found guilty of two felony charges, including civil disorder and one count of assaulting, resisting or impeding a law enforcement officer during the United States Capitol attack.

According to the United States Attorneys Office, he was also found guilty of several offenses including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, and act of physical violence at the Capitol building or grounds.

Evidence indicated that Obest went to the Stop the Steal rally in D.C., and later made his way to the U.S. Capitol building.

Obest could be seen holding a large American flag attached to a metal flagpole, according to video footage taken that day. Around 2:20 p.m., Obest then approached a group of police officers who were at the top of a set of stairs, told him Do not come up here.

Man shot in Southwest DC

Not long after, Obest engaged in a verbal and physical confrontation with police.

On one occasion, Obest raised the flagpole that he was carrying and brought the end of it down toward a group of police officers before another officer tried to take it from him.

He then attempted to take a baton out of the hand of a Metropolitan Police Department officer before eventually going back into the crowd of rioters. Around 2:35 p.m., Obest threw a smoke grenade that he found on the floor toward police.

Obest has a scheduled sentencing hearing for Dec.13, 2024.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Free summer meals for kids still available in most communities

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  Millions of children across the country, including Massachusetts, have had access to free lunch this summer offered through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), public schools, and community organizations.

The USDAs Summer Nutrition Program for Kids (SUN) provides funding for free meals and snacks to kids under age 18 at schools, parks, and other locations in cities and towns. Some programs require children to eat on-site while others, usually in more rural communities, offer meals to go.

Massachusetts summer program will help families buy groceries

Some school districts are already in session in other states, so those summer lunch programs are done. But in Massachusetts, most children go back to school either the week before or after Labor Day so the free summer lunch program is still available in some communities here in western Massachusetts.

Use the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder to look up a USDA free summer meal program in your community. You can also contact your school department, park and recreation department, or town/city hall to find locations.

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.
By Daria Shamonova, Filipp Lebedev and Mark Trevelyan

BERLIN (Reuters) -Dissidents freed from Russian jails under a prisoner swap between Russia and the West last week have already discussed the possibility of further exchanges, veteran rights campaigner Oleg Orlov said on Wednesday.

Orlov was speaking in Berlin at his first press conference since he was released from a Russian penal colony as part of the deal, the biggest of its kind since the Cold War.

The 71-year-old said he and the other freed Russians had talked among themselves about a follow-up exchange to win the release of more of their colleagues by Moscow. He did not say if the group, which was greeted on arrival in Germany by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, had raised it with him or anyone else.

"We had a conversation about the details among those who were exchanged, on the plane, when we were flying from Ankara to Germany," Orlov said.

"But I can't say anything more concrete for now because you understand that any talks about an exchange require confidentiality for a long time. I will only say that there are concrete ideas, I won't say anything more."

Under last week's deal, Russia got back eight prisoners held in the West, including a member of its FSB security service convicted of murder in Germany, and 16 people were released from Russian and Belarusian jails. They included Orlov, dissidents Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin, and U.S. citizens Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan and Alsu Kurmasheva.

Rights campaigners say hundreds of political prisoners remain in Russia. They include people in poor health like Alexei Gorinov and Igor Baryshnikov, both jailed for spreading "false information" about the Russian military, as well as associates of Alexei Navalny and lawyers who defended Navalny before he died in an Arctic penal colony in February.

Orlov said if he had been given the choice, he would not have agreed to leave the country and leave others like Gorinov behind.

He himself was serving a two-and-a-half year sentence after being convicted in February of discrediting Russia's armed forces by protesting against the war in Ukraine and accusing President Vladimir Putin of leading a descent into fascism.

Like Yashin and Kara-Murza, he said that prior to his release last week he had refused to sign a letter seeking a pardon from Putin - something he said he found "personally unacceptable".

He said he had never wanted to leave Russia but would do his best to adjust to life in exile and continue working for the rights group Memorial, which was banned in Russia in 2021 but won a share of the Nobel Peace Prize the following year.

While in prison, Orlov said, "I had ideas, even dreams about freedom that were always bound up with Russia, with various places in Russia, in Moscow and elsewhere".

In Germany, he said, "alas, I will be an emigre, but at the first opportunity I will go back."

(Reporting by Daria Shamonova in Berlin and Mark Trevelyan and Filipp Lebedev in London; writing by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A councilmember representing District 7 in the City of Fresno announced he is running for State Senate.

Nelson Esparza says he has officially entered the 2026 contest to represent the people of California State Senate District 14. Esparza begins his campaign with several endorsements from families and local leaders and $100,000 cash.

Esparza is an Economics Instructor at Fresno City College, where he has worked for nearly a decade.

Ive seen Nelson Esparza in action firsthand on the City Council. Hes a unique leader who knows how to bring people together to solve problems and get things done. We need more of that in Sacramento and thats why I am proud to endorse Nelson Esparza for State Senate. said Fresno Mayor Jerry P. Dyer

Esparza says he was raised by a single teen mother in Madera and was the oldest of five children.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
For the second time in about a week, the practice of camping by homeless people on public property in the greater Fresno area has been targeted by elected officials for potential criminal penalties.

The Fresno County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to approve the first reading of an ordinance that bans camping and authorizes fines and arrests for violations in unincorporated areas of the county. The city of Fresno introduced a similar ordinance on July 29.

The county law, which will be up for final approval on Aug. 20 and take effect 30 days later, prohibits people from camping:

On public property thats not intended to serve as a campsite.

On private property thats not otherwise zoned for camping, or without permission of the property owner.

On areas that would obstruct streets, sidewalks, alleys, trails, driveways by sitting, lying or sleeping or storing personal property.

On any street, alley, sidewalk or other public property or right of way within 500 feet of schools, parks, playgrounds, child-care facilities or libraries; within 500 feet of railroad tracks or railroad property; within 100 feet of roadway over- or underpasses, freeway off- or on-ramps, tunnels or bridges; within 50 feet of a fire hydrant or designated fire lanes; or within 10 feet of driveways or loading docks.

In addition, the ordinance forbids bathing in public fountains or other public water features, or urinating or defecating on public property.

A violation would be treated as a misdemeanor crime punishable by up to six months in jail or a fine of up to $500, or both. But the law provides that as an alternative to a fine or jail sentence, the county would encourage (courts) to grant diversion or probation with a condition that the offender complete a rehabilitation program or treatment plan.

The Board of Supervisors 5-0 vote comes eight days after the Fresno City Council adopted its own ordinance that carries fines of up to $1,000 or one year in jail.

Both measures come on the heels of recent developments regarding homeless encampments: a recent Supreme Court decision that civil and criminal penalties for camping in public areas do not represent cruel and unusual punishment for homeless individuals under the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution; and an executive order issued in late July by California Gov. Gavin Newsom for state agencies to adopt policies to clear homeless encampments on state property and encouraging local city and county agencies to do the same.

Fresno Countys ordinance was proposed by Supervisor Steve Brandau, whose District 2 represents much of northeast and northwest Fresno. It is similar to an anti-camping ordinance that he sponsored and won approval for in 2017 as a member of the Fresno City Council. That measure, however, was quickly put on a shelf because of two court rulings  one in Idaho, the other in Oregon, Brandau said Tuesday. The recent Supreme Court decision overturned those two cases.

Brandau said the county ordinance isnt intended to be a wholesale rousting or harassment of the homeless.

This isnt about sweeping people off the street, he said. This is about a very small subset of very obstinate people who do things that hurt our businesses. They hurt parents who have to send their children down the street to school, to walk alone down the street.

We have to say to them, Wouldnt you prefer to go down and begin the process, as challenging as it is, to take advantage of some of these (social) services? Brandau added.

Enforcing the ordinance, once it takes effect, will fall to the county sheriffs department. Deputy County Administrative Officer Amina Flores-Becker said sheriffs deputies already have experience clearing illegal homeless encampments on private property, and praised deputies for their compassionate approach and their interactions with the unhoused population.

I believe that it is because of their approach that we almost always get voluntary compliance with an order to vacate the premises without the need for any punitive action, Flores-Becker said.

A homeless man sets up his tent near downtown Fresno. Both Fresno County and the city of Fresno introduced ordinances in late July and early August 2024 banning camping on streets, sidewalks parks and other public property. Both the city and county laws include misdemeanor penalties such as fines or jail time for those who refuse to move when asked by police officers or sheriffs deputies.

Sheriff John Zanoni said his department enforces court orders to abate encampments on private property between three and five times per year. So were very well versed in the process and what needs to be done and absolutely being compassionate to these individuals, he said. And in many cases, we attempt to do our best to get the (social services) resources available out to these encampments so we can give people options.

The ordinance, he added, will give deputies the authority to do the same on public property. Right now we dont have that effective ability to remove these individuals, Zanoni told the supervisors. We can tell them to leave and theyll go down the road to a different location or move along. But is that solving a problem? No, its not.

We understand that in order to solve this problem, we have to have resources, the sheriff added. We have to have things available for individuals: places for them to live, programs for them to check into, and things that will help get them off the streets and help them not be homeless.

Ordinances and penalties need to be balanced with available housing, services and programs so that these people have options, because when they have options, I believe many of them will chose a different lifestyle, Zanoni said. But without options, it becomes difficult. Where do we put them?

Homeless advocates including Dez Martinez of We Are Not Invisible complained to supervisors Tuesday that the county lacks enough shelter beds to accommodate all of the people who are unhoused. She added that despite assertions that many homeless people dont take advantage of services such as mental health or drug-treatment programs, those too are inadequate.

You say it a lot: We have resources, we have resources, she said. Be specific, please, because youre being very specific on the amount of time for jail or (how much) youre going to fine us.

Zaida Ramos, a policy advocate for Leadership Counsel for Justice & Accountability, echoed Zanonis remarks about the need for additional capacity for homeless shelters and social services.

The county should show a higher level of urgency and funding efforts to ensure that shelters are adequately funded with sufficient beds and mental health services, as well as affordable housing available to all residents, Ramos told the board. Instead of hastily creating an ordinance that will only cause more suffering to the unhoused, you must begin with prioritizing funding for policies and programs that are preventive, restorative and compassionate.

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SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE)  The Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office arrested a man who is accused of shooting a fast-food worker in the head in Santa Fe. A friend of the worker said he came to America for a better life. He came from Guatemala to help his family and support his family, said Angel Avila Morales friend, Kaylee Gutierrez.

Story continues below

Friends of 20-year-old Avila Morales describe him as a sweetheart who came to the United States earlier this year to support his mom and siblings back home in Guatemala. To do so, he got a job at the Sonic Drive-In on Cerrillos Road in Santa Fe.

An employee at Sonic doesnt really make a lot of tips. However, he will make tips and he will put all of his tips in a jar and send that money to his family, said Gutierrez.

He is also a youth group leader at a local church in Santa Fe. He discovered his passion for the Bible to teach it to all the kids. He was always talking about the Bible, added Gutierrez.

However, on July 25, he wasnt returning his friends texts. Thats when they learned of the unthinkable, he was shot in the head while at work. It was like a shock. Out of nowhere, I was falling asleep and then I received a call that he got shot. Everything happened in a matter of seconds.

The Bernalillo County Sheriffs Department arrested 31-year-old Mariano Romero on Sunday. He is accused of shooting Morales while he was bringing an order to a car at the drive-in. He is also accused of threatening a witness.

According to police, Romero fled the scene, along with two women. The Santa Fe Police Department is looking for 26-year-old Savannah Edwards who they said is a person of interest.

Now, Avila Morales has a long road to recovery. Gutierrez said he had been unconscious since the shooting, but on Sunday he opened his eyes. He cannot move the right side of his body. His entire body, he is not able to move it.

His loved ones said they have faith he will be okay. Its going to probably take months, probably years. We dont know, but we have faith and thats what gives us the strength to keep going. Family and friends set up a GoFundMe to help with medical costs while Avila Morales recovers.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Theresa Mercado's 11-year-old daughter, Maleyah, recalled making tea with some friends one time when she asked her neighbor, Sonya Massey, for some honey.

"She said, 'Here you go, sweetie,'" recalled Maleyah, of Massey. "She's a nice person."

About 100 or so friends and neighbors gathered at Massey's home in the 2800 block of Hoover Avenue Tuesday night to mark the one-month anniversary of her fatal shooting at the hands of a Sangamon County Sheriff's deputy.

After a moment of silence and prayer, the crowd released purple balloons, Massey's favorite color. They also lit candles for her on the front porch of her home and left flowers and artwork.

The gathering came on the same day Gov. JB Pritzker, at a press conference in a Chicago, expressed frustration with embattled Sheriff Jack Campbell.

Shadia Massey, a cousin who likened herself to Sonya's older sister, admitted the last month has been hard on the family "and it's getting harder, actually. We are dealing with it day by day."

The family, she said, has kept its eyes on "full justice for her. We won't change in this for the community, for the world, for the nation."

Jimmie Crawford Jr., who was the first family member, along with Shadia, to arrive at Massey's home the morning of July 6, said he still hoped her death could be a catalyst for change in gun reform and civil rights "that we need."

Abbie Giganti, who is white, said police in Springfield treat Blacks like "sub-humans."

"They look at people who are different from them," Giganti said, "and they shame them and punish them."

Erin Pacha, who has been a stalwart with Giganti at local protests and rallies that cropped up within a week of Massey's murder, said police should have sent someone who could have dealt with Massey mental health issues "and not someone who was going to punish her for it."

"But it's important to us to be out here and be here for the family. I want the family to know there is support for them."

An emotional Donna Massey reiterated it was about getting justice for her daughter.

"That's all this is about. It's not just about Sonya," she said. "There have been thousands of us killed by the hands of the police. She's the straw the broke the camel's back."

Earlier, Pritzker said he was "disappointed with the answers" he was hearing from Campbell over the hiring of Sean P. Grayson, who is being held on first-degree murder charges.

"How did the sheriff end up hiring this person?" Pritzker said. "(He) must have known their background, must have."

An advisory referendum, even if it makes it to the ballot and gets a majority of the votes on Nov. 5, still might not be Campbell's undoing because he would not be bound by it.

Campbell is next up for election in 2026.

Contact Steven Spearie: 217-622-1788; sspearie@sj-r.com; X, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Friends, family hold vigil for Sonya Massey one month after death
Japan's Honda Motor (HMC) reported a 23% increase in first-quarter profit on Wednesday as the automaker benefited from a weaker yen, higher pricing and growing hybrid vehicle sales in the US and its home market.

Japan's second-biggest carmaker said quarterly operating profit totalled 484.7 billion yen ($3.3 billion) in the April-June period, compared with an average estimate of 472.4 billion yen in a poll of seven analysts by LSEG.

The company maintained its full-year operating profit forecast of 1.42 trillion yen, while slashing its sales outlook for China by 21% to 840,000 vehicles for that period.

Honda said last week its global vehicle sales grew 2% to 1.9 million over the first six months of the year, largely due to a 9% rise in sales in the US, its top market.

In contrast, it faced heavy headwinds in China where it saw sales slump 23% to 416,000 vehicles.

In China, Honda has been suffering from heavy price competition and a faster-than-expected decline in the market for internal combustion engine vehicles, CFO Eiji Fujimura told an earnings briefing.

Honda said earlier in July that it will close a factory in the world's biggest auto market and halt vehicle production at another plant amid intense competition from newer Chinese auto brands.

It plans to start production at two new electric vehicle plants in China run through two joint ventures with Chinese automakers later this year.

Honda is seeking to catch up with faster-moving global rivals in the shift to battery-powered electric vehicles, for which it is looking to profit from cooperation with rival Japanese automaker Nissan Motor.

The companies said on Thursday they had agreed to research technologies for a next-generation software platform together and sought to cooperate in areas such as batteries, e-axles and vehicle complementation.

($1 = 147.0100 yen)

(Reporting by Daniel Leussink; Editing by David Dolan, Tom Hogue, Tomasz Janowski and Kim Coghill)
New funding provides a new opportunity for the Hmong population in the Appleton area, with plans for a new immersion school

Funding is now in place for a new Hmong American immersion school set to open in the Appleton Area School District in fall 2025.

"This 4K-5th grade charter school will focus on academic excellence utilizing Hmong culture, history, language, and next-generation socially and emotionally intelligent citizens," the Appleton School District said in a news release.

The abbreviation for the school, HAIS, has a double meaning: The word, pronounced similar to "hi," means "to speak" in the Hmong language and represents "using our voices to positively impact change in our community," according to the charter.

The School Board approved the charter for the school in February.

MaiKou Heu, co-founder of HAIS, said the school will open to about 150 students starting with grades 4K through three. Each year, the student number is set to expand until the fifth year, when Heu hopes the school will have 280 students in grades 4K through five.

"Hmong students are losing their identity, who they are and what it means to be Hmong," Heu said. "This is opportunity."

Where is funding coming from?

Funding comes from a $1.5 million grant through the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

Plans call for HAIS to share space in one of the district's elementary schools. Its location is expected to be announced this fall.

A push for inclusivity

With a large Hmong population in the area, HAIS hopes to reach students who are sometimes overlooked and underrepresented in their community.

"HAIS is designed to be responsive to the needs of our underserved, including students who are learning English as a second language. By focusing on culture and language, HAIS aims to support the academic success of these students and promote diversity within the educational options available in the community," Appleton Area School District said on its website.

The idea for the school started when members of the steering committee conducted a survey in 2022 of Hmong families throughout the Fox Valley to determine community interest in a Hmong American charter school. Surveys were handed out at family and community events; the committee received more than 200 responses.

Respondents were asked whether they wanted a Hmong charter school and if they would send their child there.

Ninety-five percent of respondents said they want a Hmong charter school, and about two-thirds said they would definitely send their child there.

Hmong interpretor Suzie Herr helps Emmett Xiong with a fine motor activity during his 4K class at Foster Elementary School in May 2023 in Appleton.

Who can attend the school?

Hmong American Immersion School is one of 15 charter schools open to the public in the Appleton Area School District.

Any student in the Appleton Area School District can sign up using the districts lottery charter application that opens in December. Students living outside the Appleton Area School District may apply for open enrollment through the Department of Public Instruction and complete the charter application.

More: Here's what charter schools are and how they work in Wisconsin

What language will classes be taught in?

Most classes will be taught in English, but the school will also offer daily Hmong language classes.

"These classes aim to help students speak, read, and write in Hmong while learning about Hmong culture," the release said.

"HAIS recognizes the complexity of the Hmong community in the Fox Cities, where language barriers hinder interaction between different generations. By offering a curriculum centered on Hmong culture and language, HAIS seeks to bridge this gap and provide all students with an opportunity to learn about Hmong heritage and identity," the release added.

What is a charter school?

Charter schools may be run by school districts, nonprofit corporations or for-profit corporations. They operate under a charter, or contract, between the school's operator and the entity that approves the charter (in this case, the Appleton Area School District).

Charter schools are exempt from most state requirements for other public schools (Wisconsin state statute chapters 115 through 121), from what they teach to how they teach it.

Those requirements are far-ranging and include: teaching certain subjects in certain grade levels, providing a minimum number of teaching hours, teaching about Indigenous tribes, ensuring reading materials reflect cultural diversity, providing supplies for students who can't afford them and more.

More: Here's what charter schools are and how they work in Wisconsin

Contact Jolan Kruse at JKruse@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Hmong school in Appleton receives funding needed to open in 2025
Fundraising divide in key Meck Co. race a product of Harris taking over pres. campaign

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Campaign finance reports showed the Democratic challenger is outpacing their Republican incumbent opponent in donations in an important Mecklenburg County race.

The data, which as of June 30, showed Democrat Nicole Sidman had taken in $318,000 in donations. Her opponent, Republican Tricia Cotham had taken in $151,000. The two are facing off in the race for N.C. House District 105.

Anna Fiore, campaign manager for Sidman, said that there are a mix of reasons for the support.

When people are excited to elect Nicole, they are equally excited to defeat Tricia Cotham, and Im happy with both, said Fiore.

The totals were even before President Joe Biden decided not to run for re-election in November. Since that decision, Fiore said volunteer sign-ups and donations have increased.

The updated funding information will not be available until the end of October.

Political scientists with a keen eye on North Carolina tell us that the Cotham-Sidman race, along with several others across the state, are showing the growing national nature of elections.

Nationalization (is) working its way down the ballot, said Dr. Michael Bitzer with Catawba College.

The race involving Cotham and Sidman, despite only directly impacting areas around Matthews and Mint Hill, does have wider potential implications.

Cotham controversially switched from Democrat to Republican in 2023, creating a GOP supermajority in North Carolina, and had an advantage when her district was redrawn.

However, there is full acknowledgment among constituents that there is animosity about Cothams decision to leave the Democratic Party.

Harris introduces new running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the vice president America deserves

Campaign finance reports also show Cothams donations number in the dozens, with many of the donations being high-dollar amounts.

Sidmans finance report shows donations that total over 1,600, with many being small-dollar amounts.

People can keep going back to those low-dollar donations and keep asking for more, and that spreads like wildfire in a campaign, said Bitzer.

Queen City News reached out to Cotham for a comment on the campaign finance numbers. However, in the latest of a series of attempts to reach out to her for stories involving her or her district, she did not comment as of our deadline.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  On Tuesday, Fuzzys Taco Shop of Topeka announced on social media that it would be shutting down.

Fuzzys Taco Shop made the announcement that after 7 years of business, they would be closing their doors. According to the announcement, the location will permanently be closing on Friday, Aug. 9.

As part of a closing celebration, Fuzzys Taco Shop will be selling bar items like beer at 50% off and 18oz draft beers for $1.

Thank you all who stayed and continued to be a part of this family we built over the years, Fuzzys Taco Shop wrote on Facebook.

Earlier this year Fuzzys Taco Shop in Topeka faced social media backlash after a customer shared a video of a cockroach infestation. Fuzzys Taco Shop responded by taking action to deep clean the location, according to a statement provided to KSNT News. The shop reopened for business after passing a health inspection on Jan. 25, 2024.

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.
How Gaston, Cleveland will be impacted by tropical storm Debby, be prepared

Riverside Drive in Cramerton was closed as the South Fork river contined to rise in 2020.

North Carolina State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor is encouraging eastern and central North Carolina residents to prepare for hazardous conditions as tropical storm Debby approaches.

Taylor said in a press release that the storm's impact could rival that of Hurricane Florence, which caused significant inland flooding when it made landfall in 2018.

According to National Weather Service Meteorologist Steve Wilkinson, people in this area should be prepared for mild flooding ahead of the storm, but Gaston and Cleveland counties should not be hit as hard by Debby as with previous hurricanes.

Tropical storm Debby is set to move inland and begin dissipating later this week.

Wilkinson said the storm is currently on track to move east around Charlotte.

If it stays on track, he said, Gaston and Cleveland counties can expect two to four inches of rain primarily falling Thursday afternoon into Friday morning.

Wind speeds of around 30-50 mph will blow in with the storm, Wilkinson said.

Officials released a statement encouraging residents to:

Know your flood risk.

Make a flood emergency plan.

Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans. Know where to go and how to get there should you need to get to higher ground, the highest level of a building, or to evacuate.

Bring in outdoor furniture and move important indoor items to the highest possible floor. This will help protect them from flood damage.

Disconnect electrical appliances.

Residents should follow these safety tips in the event of flooding:

TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN!

Move immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground. Evacuate if directed.

Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Six inches of moving water can knock you down and one foot of water can sweep your vehicle away. If water surrounds your car but is not moving, abandon the car and seek higher ground.

Stay out of floodwaters which could contain: downed power lines and trees, wild animals like snakes, human and livestock waste, household, medical or industrial hazardous waste.

Avoid any room where water is covering electrical outlets or you hear noises such as buzzing or crackling. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. The water may be electrified.

Avoid camping or parking along any creek, rivers, or streams, as these places flood first and are more susceptible to flash flooding.

In the aftermath of a flooding event, the county recommends that residents:

After a flood, return home only when authorities say it is safe.

Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and watch out for debris. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways.

Do not attempt to drive through areas still flooded, and avoid standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

Photograph damage to your property for insurance purposes.

The driver and her dog were rescued from their vehicle after it got stuck in rising water on Thompson Road on Feb. 7, 2020. [

Fire and police block Highland Street in Mount Holly as the water rises over the road in 2020.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: What to expect from tropical storm Debby
A gay waiter in Kansas was left in tears after he received a homophobic slur instead of a tip. Still, he later received a public apology from the customer and is now using the incident to fund a worthy cause.

Noah Bierig was on his usual Sunday shift at a Bubbas 33 restaurant in Wichita when he felt something different about one of his tables, he told local ABC affiliate KAKE last month.

Bierig recalled one customer kept looking at his painted fingernails and the colorful Pride bracelet given to him by his mother when he came out in the eighth grade.

The first time I went up to the table, they were just shooting me a couple dirty looks, Bierig said. And every time I would walk away, they would kind of just start laughing a little bit.

Bierig brushed off the incident until he looked at the restaurants copy of the bill where the customer had written f*g in place of a tip.

That hurt me a lot, Bierig said. Im not the type to cry at work, but I gotta say, that was definitely the first time that had happened to me.

 (@)

A copy of the receipt with the customers name was posted to social media by Bierigs family and friends. It didnt take long for amateur internet detectives to identify the customer.

The customer, a 21-year-old resident of Kansas, denied he was homophobic but said instead that he reacted inappropriately to the situation.

I was going to wait until the morning to say anything but I will go ahead and address this now, the man wrote to Facebook in a since-deleted post. I know it was wrong of me to write what I did and for that I am very sorry. The overall dining experience wasnt that great and I shouldnt have dealt with it by saying what I did. I did try to call the restaurant to apologize to the guy but couldnt contact him. I am sorry to anyone who was affected or hurt by my words. I have learned a valuable lesson in all of this and nothing like this will ever happen again.

The man said he and his girlfriend, who was not with him at the restaurant, had received death threats and hateful messages and asked the public to stop.

A webpage was created to reimburse Bierig for the missing tip, and the page has taken off. He said the page has raised thousands of dollars to date, but hes not keeping any of it. Bierig said all funds raised will be donated to GLSEN, the educational support and advocacy group for LGBTQ+ youth, and his employer Bubbas 33 is matching his donation.

I honestly wish that something like that was around when I was still in high school, Bierig said of GLSEN, because I'm sure that would have helped.

You can provide a tip for charity here.
General Staff: Russia has lost 586,370 troops in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022

Russia has lost 586,370 troops in Ukraine since the beginning of its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported on Aug. 7.

This number includes 1,230 casualties Russian forces suffered just over the past day.

According to the report, Russia has also lost 8,429 tanks, 16,323 armored fighting vehicles, 22,226 vehicles and fuel tanks, 16,451 artillery systems, 1,138 multiple launch rocket systems, 910 air defense systems, 365 airplanes, 326 helicopters, 13,212 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Moscow claims clashes with Ukrainian troops on Russian soil

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  A 20-year-old Nesmith man has surrendered to Georgetown County authorities in connection with a deadly workplace shooting that happened Monday, Sheriff Carter Weaver said.

Ethan ONeil Brown, 20, of Sandy Pine Loop, turned himself in on charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime in the death of 25-year-old Kejuan Collins. Hes being held at the Georgetown County Detention Center pending a bond hearing.

Investigators obtained arrests warrants for Brown on Tuesday in connection with a shooting at the Safe Rack manufacturing plant on Highway 521 the night before.

When deputies arrived, they found Collins on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds, according to an incident report. His father told them he was on the phone with Collins when an argument ensued and then heard four or five gunshots.

Authorities said no other employees were hurt in the incident.

The business manufactures truck and railcar loading platform systems, maintenance work platforms, rolling platforms and related safety and fall protection products, according to the companys website.

* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Georgetown police ask for grace and understanding after incident involving police dog

The Georgetown Police Department is investigating after an incident involving one of its police dogs in which one person was bitten and an officer also was hurt.

The police department said it happened at about 6 p.m. Thursday.

When officers arrived at the scene, they located a victim suffering from a dog bite wound, the department said in a statement Tuesday night. An officer also suffered physical injuries while attempting to remove K9 Rex from the premises. As a result, K9 Rex is no longer in service for our Agency.

Sgt. Brandon Wallen said the incident happened at the home of one of the handlers, and Rex was not on duty when it occurred.

He said the victim and officers injuries were not life-theatening.

As a community, we ask for your grace and understanding, the police department said in its statement. Please keep our officers, specifically our handlers and their families, in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Wallen declined to answer questions Tuesday night about whether the dog had been euthanized.

He said the case is still under investigation.

The police department said in its statement that more information will be released in accordance with department policy while this incident is under review.

The Georgetown police welcomed Rex to the department in an August 2023 Facebook post, saying he and his handler, Officer Will Lykins, had just finished a six-week basic K9 handler course in South Carolina.

Rex is a 1  years old, dual purpose, Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd mix, the post stated. We are very excited to see this handler and K9 team work together.

Last September, the department shared a photo of Rex on Facebook, saying he had alerted during a traffic stop, helping find pills and suspected methamphetamine concealed in a hard-shelled case held underneath the vehicle by magnets.

We are very proud of you Rex, the post stated. You are a good boy!

Wallen said the Georgetown Police Department has one other K-9 unit besides Rex.
FILE - Georgia Superintendent of Schools Richard Woods speaks to reporters at a meeting sponsored by the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education, Jan. 5, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jeff Amy, File)

ATLANTA (AP)  Georgias Superintendent of Schools Richard Woods now says school districts may teach a new Advanced Placement course in African American Studies after all, now that Georgia's attorney general said the state's law against teaching divisive racial concepts specifically exempts such college-level courses.

Woods said Wednesday that a letter from Attorney General Chris Carr to a Republican state lawmaker completed the clarification process for him. Woods had cited the law in refusing to recommend the course be added to the state's course catalog.

Woods, an elected Republican, said the state will now consider all AP and similar college-level courses to be automatically adopted. This means that after weeks of controversy, Woods won't have to recommend the African American studies course be officially adopted, and members of the state Board of Education won't have to vote on the question.

In compliance with this opinion, the AP African American Studies course will be added to the state-funded course catalog effective immediately, Woods said, although he said there would be a disclaimer saying the state hadn't reviewed the material.

Attorney General Chris Carr, a Republican, confirmed Friday in a letter to state Rep. Will Wade that Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and dual-enrollment courses are explicitly exempted from the law, which Wade and other critics of Woods decision had pointed out. Wade, a Dawsonville Republican, wrote the 2022 measure.

I'm excited that students who want to seek challenging and rigorous courses will have the ability to do so, Wade said Wednesday.

Woods' evolving positions on the question led some districts to drop their plans to teach it without formal state approval. A lack of state approval could influence state funding and the credit students get when applying for college scholarships.

Woods also faced pointed questions from Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, but the most withering fire came from Democrats and others who called it a racist attempt to keep public schools from teaching the full history of African Americans.

Big picture, I am glad we have finally gotten to this point, even if the journey was long, convoluted and consequential, said state Rep. Jasmine Clark, a Lilburn Democrat. But she said Woods had still done damage. The disparate treatment of a course of study about Black history and the message it sent to Black students and families is still disheartening.

The Advanced Placement course drew national scrutiny in 2023 when Floridas Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis said he would ban the course. South Carolina followed this June, refusing state approval while saying that individual districts could still offer it.

The College Board is a nonprofit testing entity that offers Advanced Placement courses across the academic spectrum. Students who score well on an exam can usually earn college credit. The board has said the course is based on academic scholarship and doesn't seek to indoctrinate students.

Carr's letter notes that the law requires teachers to instruct in a professionally and academically appropriate manner and without espousing personal political beliefs. But other than that, he noted the law's text specifically exempts AP courses.

Other than those limitations, the statutory language as enacted excludes advanced placement, international baccalaureate and dual enrollment coursework by its express terms, Carr wrote.

Woods had been saying that districts could teach the AP material and get state money by listing it as an introductory African American studies course approved by the state in 2020. Woods took that position after earlier saying districts would have to teach the course using only local tax money. But he also declared that he believed the course was illegal and that districts could expose themselves to legal challenges by using the introductory course to teach the AP material.

Georgias 2022 ban on teaching divisive racial concepts in schools, based on a now-repealed executive order from former President Donald Trump, prohibits claims that the U.S. is fundamentally or systematically racist." It mandates that no student should feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress because of his or her race. So far, 18 states have passed such bans.

Opponents of the divisive concepts law said the episode proves how harmful it is. Andrea Young, the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia, said other public school students who don't take AP courses should also have access to robust, accurate curricula without politically-driven interference.

Woods, who is white, said he was particularly concerned about how the course presents the concept of intersectionality. That's a framework for understanding the effects of overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. For example, Black women may face compounding disadvantages because of their race and gender. Intersectionality is one of 74 required topics in the course.

The Atlanta, DeKalb County and Cobb County school districts have all said they will offer the course in some high schools with or without Woods' approval. Gwinnett County, the state's largest district, had said it wouldn't offer it. After Woods' ruling Wednesday, Gwinnett County said its six high schools that had planned to teach the course would try to readjust schedules to allow the course to go ahead. School started Monday in Gwinnett County.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has ruled out issuing new virtual bank licences after a review found that the eight players currently operating were adequate and that it may stunt the sector's development.

"Looking ahead, with the diversity of virtual banks and incumbent banks, the HKMA considers that the current number of virtual banking licences is optimal and does not see any strong justification to introduce more new virtual bank players to the market at this juncture," Eddie Yue Wai-man, CEO of the HKMA, said in a statement on Tuesday.

The decision came after the HKMA earlier this year launched a review into the development of virtual banks, which have yet to turn a profit.

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"The already keen competition in the retail banking sector will be further intensified if more new market participants are introduced," the HKMA said in its review. "Moreover, with virtual banks yet to achieve profitability, introducing new players to the market is unlikely to be conducive to a healthy development of the sector."

The de facto central bank, however, has proposed changing the names of these virtual banks to "digital banks" to reflect their business operations.

The HKMA issued eight virtual bank licences in 2019 to inject innovation and competition into the industry. The following year ZA Bank, WeLab Bank, Mox Bank, Ant Bank, Livi Bank, Ping An OneConnect Bank, Airstar Bank and Fusion Bank started operations. They are not allowed to have any physical branches and can only offer banking services online.

WeLab Bank was among the eight players to receive an online banking licence in 2019. Photo: WeLab alt=WeLab Bank was among the eight players to receive an online banking licence in 2019. Photo: WeLab>

The HKMA's review found the eight players had achieved the goals of promoting fintech adoption and innovation, such as allowing customers to open accounts from their mobile phones. The virtual banks have also improved financial inclusion by removing basic requirements for depositors to maintain a minimum balance of between HK$5,000 (US$641) and HK$10,000.

The eight players had a combined 2.2 million depositors at the end of last year, representing 8.8 per cent of the city's overall total. However, none of them has made a profit after four years of operations, while their market share in loans, deposits and assets is less than 0.3 per cent of the overall market, the HKMA data showed.

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This shows that virtual banks have yet to mount a significant challenge for the more than 150 traditional lenders such as HSBC, Standard Chartered and others.

The total assets of the eight virtual banks stood at only HK$49.9 billion last year, loans and advances at HK$19.5 billion and deposits at HK$37.5 billion. The HKMA said this was because of the constraints posed by the Covid-19 pandemic that made it difficult for virtual banks to launch promotions.

"Nevertheless, they recorded moderate business growth over the past three years, and their operating performance continued to improve, with aggregate operating income increasing seven-fold and net losses narrowing by 15 per cent from 2021 to 2023," the HKMA report said.

Separately, the HKMA on Tuesday issued a consultation paper to seek public views until September 5 on renaming "virtual banks" to "digital banks". The HKMA's deputy CEO Arthur Yuen Kwok-hang had unveiled the plan in May.

Given the developments in the banking sector, the term "digital bank" has broader connotations of "internet" and "technology", and thus seems to better reflect the use of the latest financial technologies and innovations by virtual banks, according to the consultation paper.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

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The Georgia State Election Board approved vote certification rules prompted by ongoing GOP distrust of Fulton County's vote tally after the Democrat's narrow 2020 presidential election victory that helped put President Joe Biden in the White House. After the 2020 general election, Fulton County poll workers sorted absentee ballots during a pilot audit. File/GPB

The Georgia State Election Board pushed through proposed right-wing election rules Tuesday that have sparked fierce debates over giving county officials greater authority to refuse to certify voter tallies.

Today, certification by local election boards is considered an administrative task that doesnt allow members to delay as they investigate results provided to them by county officials. The new process could delay the certification of a Georgia election in a large county if a single board member called for an investigation into equipment or administration of the vote.

Tuesdays election board meeting comes on the heels of Saturdays campaign rally in Atlanta where former President Donald Trump praised conservative Georgia election board members Rick Jeffares, Janice Johnston and Janelle King for their staunch support of new election policies in Georgia. That included the rule adopted Tuesday that allows local election boards members to exercise their discretion of reasonable inquiry to review documents and other election-related information prior to voting on certification.

Prior to the most recent election board meeting meeting, Democratic state lawmakers and organizations including Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, Fair Fight Action, the ACLU of Georgia, Common Cause Georgia, and Public Rights Project, urged the election board not to adopt a rule that would allow partisan election board members to potentially sabotage the Nov. 5 election.

The new rule became effective after Tuesdays vote. Under Georgia law, county election boards are required to vote on certifying election results within six days after Election Day. The Georgia Secretary of State is mandated by law to verify the statewide results for the upcoming presidential election by Nov. 22.

The new rule allows local election board members to request insight from election supervisors and staff as well as access other election-related materials to base their decision to sign off on the vote count local officials provide, or refuse to certify the results.

The new rule could lead to more legal challenges over a state law that still requires county boards to certify the results as part of their normal election duties. Several Republican Georgia county election officials declined to certify the results of recent elections, but their efforts were thwarted by boards controlled by Democrats.

The proposal was presented Tuesday by Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections Board member Michael Heekin, who stressed the importance of due diligence by officials before signing legal documents signaling the accuracy of an election.

Heekin said it is the responsibility of county election officials to ensure that potential voting irregularities or other issues have not affected the results.

The battle over election certification played out this year when Fulton County Election board member Julie Adams refused to certify primary election results and filed a lawsuit arguing that election officials be granted greater discretion over the process. The court case is still pending.

You have to look at how the election was run. Were there problems? Was it a carefree election, or was it a snake bit? Heekin said. You would quantify what you need to know in discussions with the professional staff that run the elections.

Democratic election board member Sara Tindall Ghazal said that Heekins rule change doesnt change a law that still requires the county board to certify the results by the Monday following Election Day.

This doesnt change anything in the statute, she said. The statute still mandates that counties certify by 5 p.m. Monday and they will be in violation of state law if they refuse to do so.

Johnston said the new rule aligns the duty of local election boards to oversee elections fairly. The local officials will use the opportunity to review the necessary paperwork and other information needed to ensure the results were tabulated correctly, she said.

Sure, there is a (certification) timetable to be met and should be taken seriously, she said. Any board that would not certify should be able to provide very specific reasons why they are not.

Georgia NAACP president Gerald Griggs said that its unwise to change rules during the middle of an election cycle, which could lead to needless confusing complications for voters.

The focus should be on ensuring a smooth and transparent election where every eligible voter can participate without unexpected hurdles, Griggs posted Tuesday on social media platform X. Stability and consistency in election rules are crucial to maintaining the integrity of our democratic process. True Election Integrity would be not allowing the Big Lie to change election rules and procedures.

According to Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, the certification of elections by deadlines is a routine function of election boards, which still have the opportunity to investigate any discrepancy later.

Certification is not an opportunity for county officials to engage in political grandstanding, make protest votes against election practices they dislike, or conduct free-roaming inquiries into the election results. Georgia law provides other avenues outside of the certification process to resolve allegations of error or fraud in election returns, including through the courts. If the Board were to approve this amendment, it would extend county officials powers far beyond what the legislature has specified.

In another vote Tuesday, the three Republican election board members agreed to move ahead with a proposed rule that would expand poll watcher access while ballot tabulation is taking place during an election.

Detractors contend the new access could be used by partisan poll watchers to intimidate poll workers and threatens a state ballot secrecy law designed to protect the identifying information of voters.

The rule potentially expands the ability of partisan poll watchers to observe the processing of absentee ballots, provisional ballot verification, the sign off on election equipment and other vote count reconciliation processes.

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Dr. Janice Johnston, a member of the Georgia State Election Board, speaks during a meeting at the State Capitol in Atlanta, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (Matthew Pearson/WABE via AP)

ATLANTA (AP)  Georgia's State Election Board voted Tuesday to require county election officials to make a reasonable inquiry before certifying election results to the state, signaling that fights about approving election results could intensify this November in the South's premier battleground state.

Supporters say the measure is needed because members of county election boards must swear statements that results are accurate and need to be able to adequately assure themselves that the totals are correct before doing so.

Why one would not want to assume there is some oversight?" asked State Election Board member Janice Johnston, who was appointed the panel by the state Republican Party. "Its the duty of the board to provide some oversight, in a fair way, in a reasonable way.

But opponents of the rule say it's an invitation to create post-election chaos and that the board is defying state law that says that county officials shall certify results, as well as more than a century of court precedent finding county officials have little wiggle room on the issue.

The proposed rule changes will give authority to local election officials to halt the counting of votes and slow down, or even outright refuse certification if they contend there are any irregularities, essentially making the certification of election results discretionary, said House Minority Whip Sam Park, a Democrat from Lawrenceville. The key word there is discretionary. This would essentially give partisan county board of elections personal control over Georgias election results, allowing them to uphold certifying the election if they disagree with the results.

The rule will take effect after 20 days, although it could be challenged in court.

It's yet another battle over what had long been an administrative afterthought, state and local boards certifying the results. With 90 days left in the presidential campaign, there could be more fighting in narrowly divided swing states.

Former President Donald Trump and his allies have tried to block certification to stop election results from being made final if they lose. In 2020, two Republicans on Michigans state board of canvassers, which must certify ballot totals before state officials can declare a winner, briefly balked at signing off before one relented and became the decisive vote. Trump had cheered the delay as part of his push to overturn his loss that ultimately culminated in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

During the 2022 midterms, some conservative, rural counties tried to hold up their state election results, citing the same debunked claims of voter fraud that Trump has made.

In Georgia, state officials had to order rural Coffee County to certify in 2020. In May Republican-appointed Fulton County election board member Julie Adams refused to certify primary election results after she filed a lawsuit backed by the Trump-aligned America First Policy Institute that argues county election board members have the discretion to reject certification. The rule the board adopted Tuesday was proposed by Michael Heekin, the other Republican-appointed member of the Fulton County board.

Heekin on Tuesday rebutted claims that reasonable is a subjective term, saying it has an established legal meaning.

Its guardrails to make the point that what we are doing is very important and its not to be taken lightly," Heekin told the state board.

But Democrats and voting rights groups fear that Republicans on the board are laying the groundwork for Trump to dispute a Kamala Harris victory in Georgia.

Im saying that adopting a rule thats inconsistent with the statute and over 100 years of Georgia Supreme Court precedent is outside the authority of the board, said Nikhel Sus, a lawyer for Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, a liberal-leaning group that focuses on government ethics and accountability.

Tuesday's action comes after a trio of Republican partisans aligned with Trump took control of the five-member regulatory board. It has no direct role in determining election results, but writes rules to ensure that elections run smoothly and hears complaints about violations.

Trump himself praised those members during a rally in Atlanta on Saturday, saying the three are all pit bulls fighting for honesty, transparency and victory, but criticizing the Democrat on the board and the nonpartisan chairman appointed by Gov. Brian Kemp, saying they aren't so good. Trump in particular singled out Johnston, a retired obstetrician and frequent critic of elections in deeply Democratic Fulton County, who was in the second row at Saturday's rally and stood to acknowledge Trump's praise.

My courage was contagious? Trump said after Johnston stood. Well, your courage is contagious, too.

Critics of the boards entanglement with Trump and Republican Party politics argue that its not just unseemly, but may be violating the boards own code of conduct, which says members of the board shall be honest, fair, and avoid any appearance of conflict and/or impropriety.

Board member Janelle King, whose appointment cemented control to the Trump-aligned faction, denied that she's unduly influenced by her party. State Republican Party Chairman Josh McKoon recently emailed proposed rules and talking points to the third member of the faction, former state Sen. Rick Jeffares.

I dont make decisions based on what side of the aisle wants me to do something, King told reporters. I look at the facts, I look at the evidence, I look at whats in front of me, and I see if this is a good rule.
Gov. Brian Kemp made his first public appearance Wednesday following attacks from former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally on Saturday.

At the Georgia Chamber of Commerces Congressional Luncheon, Kemp focused solely on Georgias economy and his vision for the future, without mentioning Trump or responding to his remarks.

A large crowd of Georgia business leaders gave Kemp a standing ovation as he took the stage.

The governor discussed the states economic progress but did not address Trumps comments from the recent rally.

Ive had you up to here, Brian. Ive had you up to here. Hes a bad guy and hes not doing this country a good service, Trump said Saturday, blaming Kemp for his 2020 loss in Georgia while repeating false claims of election fraud.

Despite Trumps criticism, many Georgia politicians and public figures have expressed support for Kemp.

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Even Andy Stanley, a well-known pastor of Georgias largest church, showed his backing for the Governor publicly.

Rep. Mike Collins, who attended both the Trump rally and the luncheon, voiced his continued support for both Trump and Kemp.

Well, I think, in the state of Georgia, we love our governor, Collins said. You know, you always have differences of opinions within the Republican Party. I think thats one of the things that define us.

Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, another frequent target of Trumps criticisms, criticized the former Presidents attack on Kemp.

When someone has the kind of approval that Governor Kemp has, I would go with that and try and leverage that and have that on my team because people just love Brian Kemp, Raffensperger said.

Channel 2 Action News reached out to both the Governors office and the Trump campaign for comment, but neither responded.

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Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods. 2022 File photo. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

Advanced Placement African American studies will be offered in Georgia high schools with state funding, Superintendent Richard Woods said Tuesday, but some members of both political parties are still wondering why there was ever any question.

Woods, a Republican, said his reversal came after receiving a letter from Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, a Republican, clarifying that House Bill 1084, the states 2022 law banning so-called divisive concepts in the classroom, exempts AP, international baccalaureate and dual enrollment classes.

Thus, any such course developed by its controlling entity will be automatically adopted within the state-approved course catalog. It will not have to receive a recommendation from either the State School Superintendent of Georgia or the Georgia State Board of Education. It will also not require a vote to approve or deny adoption into the state-approved course catalog, Woods wrote in a statement.

As I have said, I will follow the law. In compliance with this opinion, the AP African American Studies course will be added to the state-funded course catalog effective immediately, he added.

Woods said all AP courses will now come with a disclaimer in the state course catalog stating that they were not vetted by the state and that districts need to obey the law.

The school year has already begun for many Georgia students, and some districts, including Atlanta Public Schools and Cobb County Schools, said they are offering the course like any other AP class.

Georgias largest school district, Gwinnett County, previously said it would not offer the class, but county superintendent Calvin Watts said Wednesday that schools will work with students who signed up for the course last spring to allow them to change their schedules to add the class.

While this is a victory in many ways, the State Superintendents actions caused undue burden on our schools and pain to many in our community, including our students, he said. However, I am grateful for the collective advocacy of our students, families, staff, and community to do what is right for our students. I am sorry that we went through this, but I am happy that in the end, our students can take this course and receive the full AP experience and rewards of completing the course successfully.

Woods move is a reversal from last week, when he said he chose not to recommend state approval for the college-level class because of the divisive concepts law, although he said schools could still offer the class through a workaround. That didnt satisfy many critics, who said treating a class on Black history and culture as separate and controversial appeared racist.

Republican Gov. Brian Kemp also evinced doubt about Woods decision, sending him a letter questioning aspects of the choice.

Last week, Woods said he was seeking to determine whether the law exempted AP and other advanced classes. Thats where Rep. Will Wade came in. The Dawsonville Republican who sits on the House Education Committee was the chief sponsor of the divisive concepts bill and said the bill absolutely exempts those classes.

Once I understood that he was trying to find clarity, I felt obligated as the author of the bill to get clarification with the AGs office, which he provided to me, and I shared it with the staff at the DOE to say, Hey guys, Im not sure why you are having confusion and whats going on, but I want you to know that Ive asked this question, and Im happy to share it with you. And that occurred earlier this week, Wade said.

The divisive concepts bill states that Nothing in this Code section shall be construed or applied to . Prohibit the full and rigorous implementation of curricula, or elements of a curriculum, that are required as part of advanced placement, international baccalaureate, or dual enrollment coursework; provided, however, that such implementation is done in a professionally and academically appropriate manner and without espousing personal political beliefs.

Wade said he and the House Education Committee decided to add that carve out to protect students opportunity to take challenging classes meant for college students and earn extra credit.

I think that he understands that he made a mistake, he said, referring to Woods. I understand he apologized last week for how we got where we got, but I cant tell you why. I dont know his legal opinion or who is advising him in his office, and Im a big believer in teamwork and learning from mistakes. Im a son of two educators, and thats part of learning, and so I hope that the superintendent uses this as a great learning experience to improve communication and gain better understanding in the future as it relates to laws that affect his department and his responsibilities.

Education Department spokeswoman Meghan Frick said Woods had been in contact with Carr before receiving the letter from Wade.

This, along with clarification he sought and received from the AG regarding the course adoption process, is the first formal legal opinion weve received on this issue, she said.

The Georgia Attorney Generals office spokesperson Kara Murray confirmed the office provided legal advice but said they could not provide comment on it because of attorney-client privilege.

Powder Springs Democrat David Wilkerson, another House Education Committee member, said hes relieved at the resolution, but he worries the divisive concepts bill creates more messes that lawmakers will need to decide how to tidy up.

Even though the advanced placement was there you still get the risk of a teacher giving their political views, and thats never been clarified on what that exactly means, your personal political views, he said. Is slavery wrong? Is it not wrong? I think we all agree at this point that it was wrong, but that still could be espoused as a political view. So I think as long as 1084 is around, I think youre going to have that concern. Now instead of having it at the DOE level, youre going to have it at the district level.

The course has been a flashpoint in the culture wars nationwide, including in Arkansas, where a lawsuit involving the course is underway, and in Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis said he would ban the course because he said it represented an attempt to indoctrinate children.

The battle lines have been different in Georgia, with Republicans who speak on the record opposing Woods original decision not to support the class.

Emory University political science professor Andra Gillespie said Woods may have realized he was fighting a losing battle without any allies, and Kemp may have calculated that appearing to fight against African American studies may have presented a bad look ahead of this years election.

It could be something about not sending off unnecessary salvos in the culture wars, she said. This could be viewed as excessive, and its also something that could be framed as denying children the type of educational advantage thats going to make them competitive for college, right? There are content discussions that I think Kemp and Woods and other Republicans are comfortable having, but this particular issue of denying a class for which Georgia students could get college credit, which would save them money in the long term and help them achieve a college education, is something that looks like that youre actually denying people more things than you are providing more advantages and opportunities. And the optics of it look bad in a state where 30% of the population is Black.

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Georgia State Election Board passes new rule allowing county boards to demand more information before certifying an election

Georgias State Election Board passed a new rule ahead of the November election that will give county election boards the authority to demand more information, including the ability to conduct inquiries, before certifying election results.

The rule change comes 91 days ahead of the presidential election  something that was of concern to the boards lone sitting Democrat, Sara Tindall Ghazal. Georgia Democrats like Ghazal say the new rule could potentially delay certification of the results in the upcoming general election if a countys election board chooses to do so.

The actions by the Georgia State Election Board today threaten Georgias time-tested checks and balances that we all rely on for fair, accurate, and secure election results. Georgia already has rigorous processes in place to verify, count, and review every ballot  and audit those results  prior to certification, Voting Rights Lab Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Sam Tarazi said in a statement.

Tarazi said the rule could result in unknowable delays in future elections at the behest of a single individual, adding: It flies in the face of the strong checks and balances that have been in place for Georgias elections for decades.

The vote passed 3-2, with board Chairman John Fervier crossing party lines to vote alongside Ghazal opposing the rule. Fervier was appointed as chairman of the board by Georgia Republican Gov. Brian Kemp earlier this year.

During the heavily attended public hearing Tuesday, the board also passed  in a 3-1 vote along party lines  a motion to increase the number of poll watchers who are allowed to observe the tabulation process in Georgias 159 counties. It also unanimously voted against a renewed effort to introduce new rules for hand-marked paper ballots in time for Novembers election to prevent possible vulnerabilities.

The hearing proved an animated scene with supporters of former President Donald Trump in attendance cheering on public comments and the eventual vote supporting the rule changes.

During his rally on Saturday, Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, offered his support for the three previously low-profile Republicans on the five-member board. The name-check renewed concerns among Democrats that the Republican-majority state election board is inserting partisanship in politics.

Among those Trump mentioned by name was Dr. Janice Johnston, whose board work he recognized, drawing an ovation from the crowd.

Johnston was met with loud applause from some in the room during Tuesdays meeting when she said she thought the board should be able to see every single document in the election.

Republican board member Janelle King, who also voted for the rule, argued that county board members should not need to sign a document to certify results and should be allowed to review documents if they have outstanding questions.

Ahead of the meeting, King told CNN that the boards consideration of rule changes ahead of the general election is being done in good faith.

This is about protecting all voters, King told CNN. I am making sure I am doing the right thing. I am appreciative of the presidents support, but I am not working on behalf of anyone.

She said critics who are worried about potential interference by the Trump campaign is laughable.

Saying our name and saying were doing a good job doesnt mean anything. It just means were doing a good job in his eyes, King said of Trumps rally mention.

State Rep. Sam Park, the Democratic minority whip, criticized the board, saying it is using politics to potentially disrupt certifying the election results.

These certification rules directly conflict with Georgia law, which states in multiple places that local election board officials shall perform their duties  meaning their duties are mandatory, not discretionary, said Park, an Atlanta-area attorney.

Ahead of the meeting, Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, who was the chairman of the states board during the 2020 election, called the panel a mess. His office would not offer additional comment.

Hes a mess, King said, reacting to Raffenspergers comments.

Two Republican former secretaries of state submitted a letter to the Georgia State Board of Elections on Tuesday cautioning that Recent last-minute rule/law changes and nontransparent tactics, like those introduced in Georgia, are unhelpful and may lead to additional public distrust of elections.

Ghazal told CNN her biggest concern is public confidence in the election, since, she said, the atmosphere created by entertaining potential rule changes ahead of November could put a cloud of doubt around Georgias election that would be difficult to overcome.

CNNs Dianne Gallagher contributed to this report.

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A logo of the chemical company BASF is seen on a large storage container at the main plant. Uwe Anspach/Deutsche Presse-Agentur GmbH/dpa

German chemical giant BASF has warned customers to expect delays after a fire at its site in the western city of Ludwigshafen.

The business said deliveries of selected vitamin A, vitamin E and carotenoid products as well as certain flavourings would be affected.

The plant in Ludwigshafen, which manufactures flavourings and precursors for production, shut down after the incident last Monday.

A fire broke out at the plant after an organic solvent escaped in the southern section of the site.

Some 18 people, including seven firefighters, suffered light injuries, but BASF said there was no risk to the public.

A criminal investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

BASF is the world's largest chemical producer.
Germany and France on Wednesday condemned statements by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in which he deplored aid for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and described starvation as morally justified.

"These are completely unacceptable and outrageous statements by the Israeli Finance Minister. We reject them in the strongest possible terms," said a spokesman for the Foreign Office in Berlin.

"It is an imperative of humanity and a basic principle of international humanitarian law that civilians must be protected in war and must have access to water and food," the spokesman added.

According to Israeli media reports, Smotrich recently said it would be "justified and moral" to block aid supplies to Gaza until all hostages seized in the October 7 attacks are released.

Smotrich said such a blockade would be justified even if it entailed the starvation of "2 million civilians" in Gaza, but argued that the international community would not allow such a measure, the Times of Israel reported.

The French Foreign Ministry called on the Israeli government to "strongly condemn these unacceptable statements."

"France stresses that the provision of humanitarian aid to 2 million civilians in an absolute emergency, in an area under blockade where access points are controlled by Israel, is an obligation under international humanitarian law, as the International Court of Justice has recalled," the statement said.

The German Foreign Office spokesman also said the comments would be "followed very closely" by international rights courts in The Hague, where Israel has faced allegations of genocide.

Back in May, the chief prosecutor at the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan, said he was requesting arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
The U.S. defense contractor Raytheon was granted a $478-million contract by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to supply GEM-T missile interceptors to Germany, the company said on Aug. 6.

The contract is meant to help replace the Patriot missiles Germany provided to Ukraine.

Berlin is Kyiv's key supplier for the highly advanced Patriot air defense system, providing three full batteries in addition to ammunition supplies.

Ukraine has been calling on its allies to provide additional air defenses as Russia continues to pound Ukrainian cities and infrastructure with drones and missiles.

"Our customers are already realizing the benefits of bundled, multi-national procurement of Patriot missiles through NSPA, including the economies that offer greater affordability and the pre-negotiated contracting framework that shortens the acquisition timeline," said Tom Laliberty, the president of Land and Air Defense Systems at Raytheon.

"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."

Stacy A. Cummings, the NSPA General Manager, said: "This contract demonstrates once again that NSPA, as NATO's lead organization for multinational acquisition, support and sustainment, delivers effective and cost-efficient multinational solutions to nations, while reinforcing European industrial capacities."

GEM-T is a missile interceptor designed to better counter tactical ballistic missiles.

Ukraine fields at least four Patriot systems  the three German ones and one provided by the U.S. Kyiv was also pledged one battery from Romania, and the Netherlands said it would work with another partner country to deliver one more full system.

Read also: Ukraine gave a glimpse of its first F-16s  what can it tell us?

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Germany to receive US$478 million worth of Patriot missiles to replace those it gave to Ukraine

Raytheon, an RTX Corporation business, has been given a US$478 million contract by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to supply Germany with Patriot GEM-T missiles.

Source: RTXs press service, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Germany will receive the missiles worth US$478 million to replace the ones it gave to Ukraine.

The report says Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway have agreed to participate in financing the purchase.

"Our customers are already realising the benefits of bundled, multi-national procurement of Patriot missiles through NSPA, including the economies that offer greater affordability and the pre-negotiated contracting framework that shortens the acquisition timeline," said Tom Laliberti, president of Raytheon's Land and Air Defence Systems.

GEM-T, a Patriot Advanced Capability 2 (PAC-2) missile interceptor enhanced to defeat tactical ballistic missiles, is the primary weapon to complement the battle-tested Patriot air and missile defence system.

Background:

In July, the media reported that the US plan to increase the production of missiles for Patriot air defence systems supplied to Ukraine at Japanese factories was facing problems due to a shortage of a critical component produced by Boeing.

US President Joe Biden announced the supply of five air defence systems, including Patriot, to Ukraine during the opening of the NATO Summit in July.

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The German Foreign Office has condemned statements by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in which he deplored aid for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and described starvation as morally justified.

"These are completely unacceptable and outrageous statements by the Israeli Finance Minister. We reject them in the strongest possible terms," said a spokesman for the Foreign Office in Berlin.

"It is an imperative of humanity and a basic principle of international humanitarian law that civilians must be protected in war and must have access to water and food," the spokesman added.

According to Israeli media reports, Smotrich recently said it would be "justified and moral" to block aid supplies to Gaza until all hostages seized in the October 7 attacks are released.

Smotrich said such a blockade would be justified even if it entailed the starvation of "2 million civilians" in Gaza, but argued that the international community would not allow such a measure, the Times of Israel reported.

The German Foreign Office spokesman said the comments would be "followed very closely" by international rights courts in The Hague, where Israel has faced allegations of genocide.

Back in May, the chief prosecutor at the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan, said he was requesting arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Hong Kong-based virtual bank Mox has launched a cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF) service for customers, as it ramps up service offerings months after launching its Mox Invest platform amid Hong Kong's push to transform the city into a virtual asset hub.

The Standard Chartered subsidiary started the service on Monday, becoming the first virtual bank to offer trading directly on its platform of the spot bitcoin and ether ETFs that launched in Hong Kong earlier this year, as the company positions itself as a one-stop-shop investment and banking platform for retail investors.

"The launch of crypto ETFs is just the start of what Mox intends to offer in the crypto investing space," Jayant Bhatia, the bank's chief product officer, told the Post in an interview on Monday. "We want to offer a safer way to an asset class for customers to diversify investments."

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

Mox Bank chief product officer Jayant Bhatia, seen here at the company's Hong Kong office in Quarry Bay, says the virtual bank is just getting started in offering crypto services. Photo: Mox Bank alt=Mox Bank chief product officer Jayant Bhatia, seen here at the company's Hong Kong office in Quarry Bay, says the virtual bank is just getting started in offering crypto services. Photo: Mox Bank>

The ETFs that invest directly into the world's two largest cryptocurrencies join other ETF products available through Mox Invest, which launched in February. US crypto futures are also available, the company said, but not US spot crypto ETFs.

Further down the line, Mox plans to allow its users to directly purchase cryptocurrencies on its platform, something that has proven to be an appealing option for financial service providers. Digital brokerages Tiger Brokers and Futu recently launched crypto trading services.

Bhatia did not say when crypto trading will be available on Mox, but said the bank will team with a licensed exchange to offer the service. Hong Kong requires operators without a virtual asset trading platform licence to use a licensed exchange for crypto trading. Only local exchanges HashKey and OSL are licensed to offer retail crypto trading so far, and they have only offered bitcoin and ether trading for retail.

While Hong Kong's spot bitcoin and ether ETFs can be purchased through any traditional trading platform, Mox is seeking to differentiate itself on price, highlighting its low overhead as a completely virtual bank.

Story continues

Mox is charging 0.12 per cent of the transaction volume with a minimum of HK$30 (US$3.84) for Hong Kong-listed ETFs, and 0.01 per cent per share with a minimum of US$5 for US-listed ETFs.

"This is very competitive and is actually the cheapest among banks in Hong Kong," said Henry Lau, Mox's head of investment. Bhatia added that it is nearly half the price of what traditional Hong Kong banks offer.

Mox has entered the crypto financial services market as cryptocurrencies have entered a rough patch after a high-flying first half of the year. Months after reaching a record US$73,738 in March, according to CoinGecko data, the price of bitcoin plummeted by as much as 16 per cent on Monday amid economic uncertainty as investors sold off equities and other assets.

Recent bitcoin price declines are some of the biggest seen since the 2022 collapse of the crypto exchange FTX. Bitcoin briefly traded below US$50,000 on Monday afternoon, although it clawed it way back up past US$52,000 by the evening.

"There are obviously volatility risks which customers need to understand," Bhatia said. "We will ensure that the risks are made very transparent to customers, and we would recommend that they have diversified asset classes to manage their investments. I think starting with ETFs is the first step in the right direction."

Later in the year, Mox plans to launch a "core portfolio" solution that the company said will bring professional-level trading features to retail investors. The product will be tailored to a customer's profile and risk tolerance.

Even with crypto's wild price swings, Bhatia said Hongkongers are "savvy investors" who "need to look at investing tools that give them optionalities, whether it's direct equities, ETFs, gold, funds, and now in crypto".

About 28 per cent of Mox customers are already invested in crypto, according to Bhatia, and 18 per cent of those customers are active crypto traders.

"We fundamentally believe that crypto investing is here to stay," Bhatia said, "and our objective is to ensure that we offer it in a secure manner."

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  An Oakland City man who was found guilty of multiple sexual offenses last week is now dead following an officer involved shooting in southern Illinois.

According to a release, Deputies with the United States Marshals Services and an officer with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources attempted to serve a warrant on Tuesday to Floyd Caudill, 40, who was tracked to the Lake Glendale Campground in Golconda. Officers say they made verbal contact with Caudill, but he refused to come out of his tent.

A release says a shot was fired from within the tent, and a deputy marshal returned fire. Caudill was found dead inside the tent. Illinois State Police are investigating the incident.

Court records show Caudill failed to appear in Warrick County court on July 30. The next day, a jury found Caudill guilty of two counts of sexual misconduct with a minor, child molestation and battery. A warrant was issued for his arrest for failing to appear.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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).
The News

Welcome to the Global Hot List, our subjective, dynamic ranking of the races and political developments you should be paying attention to right now, compiled by world elections expert Brad Glasser.

In todays edition: A new running mate settles the tickets in the US election, Bangladesh protests leave the military in charge, and Germanys AfD party is facing another outcry over fascist imagery.

The List

1. USA  Veepstakes

Kamala Harris picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice presidential nominee. The governor was considered one of the more progressive options among a slate of contenders, with advocates pointing to a record of left-wing legislative accomplishments in his home state of Minnesota. The GOPs opposition machine has already roared into life against Walz, with the Trump campaign labeling the governor as a dangerously liberal extremist.

2. Bangladesh  End of regime

Bangladeshs dictator was ousted by protestors, setting up an uncertain political future for the country. Weeks of demonstrations met with violent crackdowns by the government culminated in a historic day in Bangladesh politics, in which the prime minister was forced to flee and parliament was raided by protestors. Now, the military will step in to fill the vacuum with an interim government  but there are already clashes over what that government will look like. As part of their demands, protesters successfully pushed for the leadership of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who has a reputation for banking policies focused on helping the poor.

3. Germany  Nazi poster

A poster for the AfD featuring blatant Nazi symbolism has sparked outrage in Germany, as the party shifts towards open extremism. The poster shows what appears to be an open nod to the Nazi salute, and takes place against a backdrop of rising right-wing extremism within the AfD, particularly after the party brought together a group including fascist sympathizers in the European Parliament. While the intent behind the poster seems obvious, the partys Frankfurt chairman said criticism towards the imagery was absurd. Its by no means the first time the AfD has gotten in trouble for Nazi symbolism.

4. Venezuela  Power maneuver

Venezuelas Nicolas Maduro is pulling strings to remain in power after an election condemned by political opposition and the US. Despite calls from relatively friendly nations like Brazil and Colombia to produce clear election totals, Maduros government is moving ahead with a result that claims the president was re-elected handily. Venezuelas opposition has rejected the results, producing their own tally of votes and asking for the military to intervene to depose Maduro.

5. Japan  New Koizumi

The son of former Japanese prime minister Junichiro Koizumi may make a bid to be the next leader of the LDP. Junichiros tenure in office was marked by strong international condemnation for visiting the Yakusuni Shrine, which honors WWII-era war criminals in Japan, a visit that was replicated by his successor Shinzo Abe on multiple occasions. Junichiros son, Shinjiro, was previously discouraged from running to lead the LDP, as Junichiro wanted him to wait until he is 50. That stance might have softened, however, according to reports.

6. Bolivia  Presidential clash

Two presidents of Bolivia, former allies Luis Arce and Evo Morales, are now vicious political rivals, with former president Morales accusing current leader Arce of staging a self-coup. A June coup attempt had ended in a dramatic face-off between Arce and the coup leader; now, Morales claims the entire incident was staged to boost Arces popularity, setting up a potentially tense campaign for president next year.

7. Spain  Strategic break

Spains far-right Vox party is pursuing a strategic break with mainstream conservatives, and now refusing to work with them at the regional level. Vox exited its agreement with the Peoples Party in five regional governments simultaneously, claiming the PPs stance on a migration deal would be political betrayal. Vox is currently feeling heat from another far-right party, Se Acabo La Fiesta, which emerged in the European elections and is described as more radical and combative in its approach.

8. Mozambique  Party disqualification

Mozambique moved to bar a party from running in its upcoming elections. The Democratic Alliance Coalition, a smaller opposition party, was ruled ineligible to compete, leaving its presidential nominee to run as an independent. Party president Manecas Daniel vowed to fight the government with eggs and tomatoes for the exclusion.

9. Kiribati  Elephant in the room

Radio New Zealand Pacific correspondent Rimon Rimon gave an interview on dynamics in Kiribatis upcoming election. Rimon noted the peculiarity of seeing three contests with only an incumbent candidate running unopposed, all from the ruling party. In Kiribati, however, party affiliation is fluid  and presents itself as the big elephant in the room. Candidates may run with one party, but ultimately decide to back another after the election, especially following consultations with constituents. Nevertheless, Rimon expects the ruling party could face a tough election owing to draconian media laws, even if they see support based on welfare policies.
Montpelier, VT  Hospitals around Vermont are preparing their budget requests for the Green Mountain Care Board to review. As board members take stock of hospitals needs and assess the state of healthcare in Vermont they say the system needs work.

The process began on Tuesday when board members met with hospitals for preliminary budget analysis, after which approval usually hinges on commercial cost, revenue, safety and patient care among other benchmarks being met.

After an early assessment, Green Mountain Care Board Chair Owen Foster noted that Vermonts healthcare system has struggled in recent years.

Weve seen a trend, the last I want to say four or five years of hospitals having very serious financial needs because their financial stability has been rocked, Foster said. The fiscal needs of hospitals to just remain solvent have really increased dramatically over the last five years.

Foster said nine out of Vermonts 14 hospitals showed negative operating margins due to factors like low patient volumes, high operating costs and an aging demographic straining the healthcare system.

He has also noticed costly trends among Vermont hospitals, like patients going to large hospitals for routine checkups instead of smaller community practices, and staffing shortages that increase operation and labor costs.

Healthcare gets really expensive when its concentrated at hospitals. Hospitals have expensive operations, and you want to make sure that your system has enough community providers  the mental health care, the long-term care, the primary care  to try and keep care out of more expensive places, continued Foster.

Theres still a pretty heavy reliance on traveling nurses. The prices have come down but the volume of need for traveling nurses has not abated as much as wed like.

Foster noted that financial difficulties in the healthcare system cause medical costs to rise and insurance rates to spike, forcing Vermonters to pay more than residents of other states, but said the board is looking for ways to keep the states healthcare system sustainable.

Individual hospitals will begin presenting budget requests through August and September, and the Green Mountain Care Board will return budget rulings in early October.

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Who is your God?: Report gives details about woman after Lake County deputies shot

An arrest affidavit for the woman accused of leading to an ambush attack on Lake County deputies said she claimed to have a body under her home.

Thats just one of the many disturbing details in the report for Julie Sulpizio.

Investigators said deputies were called to Sulpizios home Friday night after reports that she struck her neighbor.

They said while deputies headed into the home for a well-being check on her family, they were shot at.

Read: 9 Investigates speaks with psychotherapist if Lake County woman will face a jury

Master Deputy Bradley Link was killed, and Deputies Harold Howell and Stefano Gargano were injured.

Investigators said they later found Sulpizios husband and adult daughters dead, saying they died by suicide.

Deputies did not find a body under the home, despite Sulpizios claims.

Read: Former stepmom of Lake County deputies shooting suspects speaks out

Federal agents and Lake County deputies were back out at the home Wednesday, pulling out even more propaganda that the family was collecting, along with an arsenal of guns and ammunition.

Details from the only surviving suspects interview with detectives paint her as the mastermind behind a planned mission, an ambush murder of those with dark souls.

The report said, She was trying to lure the blacks (those with black souls) to her residence so that Michael - her husband - could kill them.

Read: Woman charged in ambush attack on Lake County deputies makes first court appearance

This is consistent with the primary interaction with Sulpizio where she  even with law enforcement present  continued to attempt to lure neighbors to her residence along with law enforcement, the report said. And also consistent with why Deputy Link did not receive incoming fire as he first entered the threshold of the hallway.

The arrest affidavit also said it is believed that Michael Sulpizio expected Julie to enter first.

The state usually gathers evidence that you understood what you were doing, former Ninth Circuit Chief Judge Fred Lauten said. You planned this, or you ran after the crime was committed so that you knew what you were doing was wrong. You understood what you were doing. You understood the consequences of what you were doing.

Lauten said every defendant in Florida is presumed sane.

Read: How to help Lake County deputies families following deadly ambush

In order for Sulpizios attorneys to have a shot at an insanity defense, shell have to be diagnosed with a mental illness and prove she did not know right from wrong or did not understand what she was accused of doing.

Throughout her interview with detectives, records show she often referred to herself as Helen or God.

Winning that defense at trial is hard, Lauten said. There are not a lot of guilty by reason of insanity trials where the defense succeeds.

Sulpizio said on Tuesday that she intends to hire a private attorney.

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Columbus City Schools administrators warned Tuesday that there may be busing problems at the beginning of the coming school year as the district only has three-fourths of its goal for bus drivers.

The meeting Tuesday was the Columbus City school board's first after a July recess, and administrators across various departments shared updates on the district's preparedness for the upcoming 2024-25 school year, which begins Wednesday, Aug. 21, for most students.

More: Nine Columbus City schools potentially face closure. Here's what to know

A Columbus City Schools bus drops off students at Briggs High School for the first day of in-person classes on Monday, March 15, 2021.

Maurice Woods, CCS chief operating officer, warned families to expect some late buses in the first several weeks of school because he wanted to "manage expectations."

"We just try to ensure that we're managing our communication and asking the public to just understand that there's going to be some late buses the first couple of weeks, and to work with us and provide some level of grace," Woods said.

CCS only around 75% of bus driver goal, but most trainees in 5 years

According to information presented at Tuesday's meeting, Columbus City Schools is only at 74% of its target goal of bus drivers, with 453 drivers of its 610 goal. However, the district has hired seven additional bus drivers and has 95 drivers in its trainee program.

Amy Grover, CCS chief talent officer, said the 95 trainees represent "the highest number of new bus driver trainees in five years." A district spokesperson said in a statement that eight trainees will be ready when school starts, and 29 will be ready by September (if they all successfully pass a commercial driver's license exam).

"While we have only realized seven bus driver hires over the summer, we have a large pool of bus driver trainees working to become drivers," Grover said.

The district also has only 19 or 48% of its staffing level goal of 40 van drivers for special education students.

Board Member Jennifer Adair said she wanted to remind the public that the district's transportation operation is one of the "largest logistic operations in the country" and that the district is also required by law to bus charter and other nonpublic students, even outside of Franklin County. A spokesperson said the district will use transportation vendors to bus over 8,000 charter and nonpublic students for the upcoming school year.

"This is the most challenging time of the year, and it sounds like you have a handle on things, but we know things happen," Adair said.

Nationwide bus driver shortage remains severe

Last year, The Dispatch reported that school districts across central Ohio, including Columbus City Schools, Groveport Madison, Westerville and others, have experienced seemingly perennial issues with getting enough bus drivers, resulting in staggered starts, interruptions and buses that sometimes simply never show up for pickups or drop-offs.

The nationwide bus driver shortage remains a persistent issue for districts across the country, according to a November 2023 study by the Economic Policy Institute.

According to the research, there was an approximately 15% overall reduction in bus drivers since 2019, with 192,400 drivers working in K12 schools in September 2023, and a 13.6% decline in state and local government school bus drivers.

However, that reflects a slight rebound from the lowest point for bus driver employment in 2021, which saw an over 30% overall reduction in bus drivers across the country, according to the study.

How is CCS prepared for the start of school in other areas?

According to information presented during the board meeting, CCS is more than 90% staffed in most positions, including general classroom faculty (99%), special education teachers (92%) and custodians (95%). Other than bus drivers, the district is at 82% of its goal for district security staffing.

Overall, the district has filled 97% of total certificated (or teaching and support positions) and will be at 96% of key classified positions (like custodians and instructional assistants) by the time hiring is completed, Grover said.

The district also completed several capital projects over the summer, including renovating academic facilities, the gym and auditorium at Mifflin High School and improvements to classrooms and the media center at Scottwood Elementary.

Adair commended district administration for preparing "a really great readiness report."

"This is probably one of the best I've heard," Adair said.

District to update public on school closing process at next meeting

Board President Christina Vera said the public can expect to receive an update on school closings at the second meeting of every month (the board meets bi-monthly).

"I know that has been a question and a conversation as to when we can expect to share and just know that your board is working very hard," Vera said. "Certainly we want to be able to share those next steps with you once we are ready to be able to provide that information."

More: Columbus school closings: Neighbors fear blight as district mulls shuttering buildings

In June, the Superintendent's Facilities Task Force recommended at a board meeting that the board consider closing six elementary schools, two middle schools and a high school building in the state's largest district, which has more than 110 buildings, The Dispatch previously reported.

That was 11 schools fewer than what the the task force presented in May, where up to 20 possible school buildings were recommended for closure under nine initial scenarios.

Cbehrens@dispatch.com

@Colebehr_report

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Schools says bus drivers only 75% of goal for school start
However well-intended they may be, sales tax holidays remain the same as they always have beenineffective and inefficient. (Photo by Getty Images)

This commentary originally appeared on the Tax Foundation website and is republished here with permission. Sales tax holidays, designated periods when select goods or services are exempted from state (and sometimes local) sales taxes, continue to be politically popular among the states: 19, including Massachusetts and Connecticut, have held or will be holding sales tax holidays in 2024, one more than last year.

They also take different forms in different places. In recent years, Florida has exempted outdoor recreational equipment from its state sales tax during the summer, while Iowa and Oklahoma have exempted clothing during their holidays. Sales tax holidays are politically popular with elected officials because they offer direct discounts, whether real or perceived, to consumers in a highly visible way. Consumers often believe theyre getting a good deal. Thus, they remain popular despite their economic inefficiencies, unintended consequences, and frequent inability to achieve their stated goals.

For a more detailed analysis of the arguments for and against sales tax holidays, see the Tax Foundations 2022 full-length report.

Proponents of sales tax holidays claim they create economic growth by increasing retail activity within their timeframes. However, studies show that much of the increased shopping during holidays is shopping that consumers would have done at other times but moved to the holiday timeframe to take advantage of discounts. While some consumers make incidental impulse purchases during these holidays, those additional purchases are not enough to justify the revenue costs associated with these holidays, even if such impulse purchases are desirable. Since sales tax holidays shift the timing of demand but do little to increase its magnitude, sales tax holidays reduce state and local tax collections for little or no economic benefit.

Additionally, states often schedule sales tax holidays to exempt specified goods and services during times when demand for these goods and services is highest, such as back-to-school products in August and hurricane preparedness supplies before storm seasons. As a result, most of these revenue losses are associated with retail transactions that would have occurred without the added incentive. The prevalence of sales tax holidays is indicative of deeper structural weaknesses in state tax codes: The existence of a sales tax holiday is a tacit admission that the sales tax is overly burdensome throughout the rest of the year.

While these revenue losses may not be particularly large, they still have to be offset by revenue generated elsewhere, which is a net negative for states overall economic health since other revenue sources are often more economically damaging than sales taxes. And states that can consistently cover these holidays out of surplus revenues could better utilize their excess funds on more economically efficient tax reforms, particularly rate reductions.

Proponents of sales tax holidays sometimes suggest that they encourage out-of-state consumers to travel for discounts, increasing in-state sales. Since so many states now have tax holidays, and because the holidays often apply to lower-cost items that wouldnt justify a large detour, their effect on consumer behavior is dubious. Furthermore, while compliance is undeniably low, a consumer who makes a sales-tax-free, out-of-state purchase intended to be consumed in their own state is legally obligated to pay use tax on that purchase.

Tax holidays also incentivize consumers to put off shopping for selected items. A lower-income family that waits to buy school supplies until a back-to-school sales tax holiday on the weekend before school startsa point when many families have already finished their shoppingmight have been better off if they had shopped earlier, when products are most likely to be well stocked. This is just one aspect of sales tax holidays that can inadvertently harm lower-income consumers. Because sales tax holidays induce high demand for an often narrow, predetermined set of goods during a limited timeframe, retailers often increase prices to avoid running out of stock. Though this aspect of sales tax holidays is difficult to study, some research has suggested companies can absorb up to 20% of the benefit of sales tax holidays through price increases, hurting consumers with the lowest incomes. These shoppers are also the most likely to face difficulties in being able to prepare for sales tax holidays by increasing household savings or requesting time off work. If governments truly want to help low-income consumers, targeted assistance policies are better options. Better yet, policymakers could permanently ease tax burdens by trimming rates year-round  but permanent solutions tend to be deprioritized when politically easier temporary gimmicks like sales tax holidays persist.

In addition to their inefficiencies as a vehicle for tax relief, sales tax holidays often have economically distortive structural flaws. For example, by imposing a cap on the price of goods that qualify for the sales tax holiday, consumers may be influenced to purchase a less expensive and lower quality product when they otherwise would have purchased a higher quality product that exceeds the specified price threshold. Low price caps can also disadvantage goods from small businesses whose prices may be higher.

Since sales tax holidays shift the timing of demand but do little to increase its magnitude, sales tax holidays reduce state and local tax collections for little or no economic benefit.

The compliance costs associated with sales tax holidays are further damaging to small businesses. Additional short-term staffing is often necessary to handle the induced spikes in demand, and that can be harder to schedule for businesses with fewer employees. Moreover, small businesses may find it more difficult to absorb the spending slowdowns in the weeks immediately before and after sales tax holidays, as consistent revenue is more important when margins are thin. Even if overall revenue remains only slightly changed, the timing distortions can be painful. Additionally, the work required to comply with sales tax holiday provisions (e.g., determining which products qualify for exemption and changing cash register settings in accordance) can be especially difficult for small businesses, which are often unable to sustain entire teams dedicated to legal compliance.

Sales tax holiday structures vary widely from state to state, exacerbating these compliance difficulties. Beyond the differences in product lists and price caps, different states treat shipping, handling, layaway sales, and rain check sales differently. The difficult task of compliance must often be done on short notice, because details sometimes arent agreed to until just weeks before holidays are scheduled to take place.

Take Massachusetts sales tax holiday, which must occur at some point during August and will be held this year on Saturday, Aug. 10, and Sunday, Aug. 11. Massachusetts legislators chose to give the Massachusetts Department of Revenue multiple weeks to determine when the 2024 state sales tax holiday will be held. Statutorily, it may not need to be for weeks. Such administrative delays encourage administrative slowdowns which could be harmful, or at least, not as helpful, if they choose dates during which demand is low for the qualifying set of goods and services covered under the states sales tax holiday.

For small online retailers selling into Massachusetts, among others, this is a nightmare. There are legal consequences for over-collecting sales tax from consumers, so they need to adjust to sales tax holidays that may be called at the last moment, on an evolving range of products, and often with definitions that require careful product-by-product eligibility judgments.

Some businesses thrive on sales tax holidays while others struggle to comply with them. Some consumers benefit from them while others might be inadvertently hurt by them. Sales tax holidays pick winners and losers  and their costs arent offset by any meaningful economic benefit.

Nevada recently implemented a sales tax holiday for National Guard members. SB 50 requires Nevada National Guard members to pay the sales tax on eligible items, then submit a request for a refund of the tax, a copy of the letter of exemption issued to the person, and the receipt issued to the person by the retailer indicating that the person paid the tax. Only then will Nevada National Guard members receive a refund and benefit from the sales tax holiday. Is this an efficient or desirable system?

From a political standpoint, sales tax holidays are harmful because they create space for politicians and regulators to pick political favorites in the process of selecting eligible products. They also pave the way for lobbyists to solicit policymakers in hopes of securing a sales tax holiday exemption for their products. Because small retail businesses often lack resources for lobbying, and because there is no way for legislators to perfectly know what consumers want. The lists of goods included in tax holidays can become an unholy matrimony of centralized economic planning and corporate lobbying. Any decision about which goods are and arent exempt will discriminate against some consumers.

Overall, sales tax holidays are an inefficient vehicle for providing tax relief or generating additional economic activity. They often end up hurting the taxpayers they intend to help. They inject unnecessary instability into government and business revenue streams; create administrative and compliance costs for businesses, governments, and consumers; and do not promote long-term economic growth. Several states realized these downfalls and accordingly abandoned their sales tax holidays in recent years. However, their electoral utility remains an incentive for policymakers, and with 19 states offering sales tax holidays in 2024  an increase over recent years  it doesnt look like theyre going away any time soon.

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SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana is celebrating Mission Month throughout August.

They invite the public to participate by contributing household items or clothing during the Community-Wide Donation Drive on August 9th and 10th. Donors will receive a 10% coupon to Goodwill for dropping off items at any Goodwill store.

Donations and shopping help fund Goodwills workforce training and placement programs. Workforce staff will be on-site at several stores to distribute program flyers and answer questions about Goodwills mission.

Goodwill has also partnered with AmeriHealth Caritas mobile, healthy unit and will be offering health checks from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on the following days and locations:

August 13 Goodwill Outlet, 800 W. 70th Street, Shreveport

August 15 Goodwill Store, 8100 Jump Run, Shreveport

August 20 Goodwill Store, 1291 Shreveport-Barksdale Highway, Shreveport

August 22 Goodwill Store, 4000 Airline Drive, Bossier City

August 29 Goodwill Store, 1085 Highway 80, Haughton

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.
Republicans are breathing a sigh of relief in response to Vice President Harris choosing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) to be her running mate.

In the run-up to Harriss decision, Republicans had expressed anxiety over the possibility of her choosing Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D), pointing to his record of winning statewide in the critical battleground and moderate record as governor.

But with Walz at the top of the ticket, Republicans are already targeting his progressive record and doubting he will be much help in appealing to swing voters in battleground states.

Tim Walz? What a relief, Kellyanne Conway, a former senior counselor to former President Trump, posted on the social X.

Trump donor Dan Eberhart echoed that sentiment in a text message following the announcement.

I am relieved! Eberhart wrote. Shapiro would have been more tactical, he added.

One national GOP operative claimed the collective GOP sigh of relief could blow over a house made of straw.

Harris over the weekend interviewed Walz, Shapiro and Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.). Kelly, who hails from a border state and a swing state, was also viewed as a potentially strong choice to undercut GOP attacks on immigration.

But some Republicans were particularly surprised Walz was the pick over Shapiro, the first-term governor of what is essentially a must-win state for the Harris campaign.

No ones voting for the VP, but I dont think theres any question that Shapiro could help her in Pennsylvania, and thats obviously a critical state, said Sean Spicer, who served as Trumps White House press secretary.

Spicer cited the condensed timeline and lack of a competitive primary as reasons Harris might be more affected than normal by her choice of running mate.

Normally VPs dont do anything. Shes in a very different place than a normal race. This is a very unique situation, Spicer said.

Trump campaign officials and their allies wasted little time highlighting Walzs support for gender-affirming care, legislation that allows Minnesotans in the country illegally to obtain a drivers license and his handling of the demonstrations in the state following the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

In a statement to reporters Tuesday, Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt labeled Walz a radical leftist and West Coast wannabe.

Republicans said they feared Shapiro because of his record of expanding the Democratic tent in battleground Pennsylvania, which will likely play a deciding role in the election. While Shapiros stock was once notably higher than Walzs, it took a hit as progressive and pro-Palestinian activists launched a barrage of criticism against the governor. Republicans say the strategy played right into their hands.

Republicans feel they dodged a bullet by Harris not picking Shapiro, GOP strategist Ford OConnell said. Its clear that Harris is far more concerned with locking down the progressive antisemitic vote than winning over the independents who will decide this race.

Strategists viewed Shapiro as a particularly strong potential running mate because Harriss path to 270 Electoral College votes is especially narrow if she doesnt carry Pennsylvania.

Shapiro won the governors race in 2022 with roughly 57 percent of the vote, and he improved on President Bidens margins from 2020 in virtually every corner of the commonwealth.

And while Trumps vice presidential pick of Ohio Sen. JD Vance (R) could not be farther apart from Walz politically, some Republicans say Harris and Trump have a similar vice presidential strategy in choosing running mates that align closely with their respective bases.

What Kamala did was almost what Donald Trump did, which was pick the person the base supported the most , Republican strategist Erin Perrine said. JD is now the future of the MAGA movement. Tim Walz is a very progressive governor with a record to match.

There are still signs that Walz could be a formidable running mate for Harris that Republicans will have to contend with.

He is well-liked among his former colleagues on Capitol Hill, his rural, Midwestern upbringing will likely give him credibility with voters in the Blue Wall states of Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, and hes a strong messenger, as evidenced by his viral branding of the Trump/Vance ticket as weird.

He is the perfect complement to the VP, former Obama spokesperson Eric Schultz said. We now have a ticket that hails from urban and rural areas. Represented a red district in Congress, has wide appeal in the midwest, and strong record of working w/ Republicans to get things done. Hes as likable and relatable as they come.

Republicans are also taking note of Walzs affable nature, saying there is potential for it to play well with persuadable voters.

If the election turns out to be about policy, I think its a great pick for the Republicans, said Trumps former White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, who served with Walz in Congress. Its going to be easy to paint Harris and Walz as progressives who are out of touch with mainstream America, and that might be where the deciding votes are left to be found.

All of that being said, Im not sure that swing voters, people who are still undecided vote on policy. I think they might vote on personality, Mulvaney continued. If they do that, thats going to be a great pick for the Democrats, because Tims just a really nice agreeable guy that people like.

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Reelected Murfreesboro City Council member Kirt Wade wants the governing body to remain free of partisan elections.

Wade questions why fellow council member Austin Maxwell used his role as the chairman of the Rutherford County Republican Party to urge voters to back GOP candidates for the city election.

"Why are we letting one person promote one party in a nonpartisan race?" Wade asked. "We vote on what's best for the city of Murfreesboro. We don't vote as Republicans, Democrats or independents."

Kirt Wade

Partisan politics: Rutherford school board Zone 2 race gets divisive with RINO insult to GOP officials

Wade brought the issue up during the council's meeting Thursday (Aug. 8). He asked City Attorney Adam Tucker to research state law to determine if a council member can be a political party leader backing the party's nominee for the nonpartisan governing body.

Maxwell responded facetiously by suggesting that state laws could be researched for "California or New York," which both are known for supporting Democrats. He also said he votes as a council member for what's in the best interest for the city.

Party politics: GOP conflict erupts in email between Republican Party Chairman Austin Maxwell, Mayor Carr about Property Assessor seat

Maxwell says he'll propose change in GOP policy for elected officials

Republican Party Chairperson Austin Maxwell at the local GOP headquarters in downtown Murfreesboro, on Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2022, at PCA.

Fellow Council member Madelyn Scales Harris urged Maxwell and Wade to not "split this council over political parties."

"We're going to respect each other," said Harris, adding that she will be like a "mama" making sure the council members get along.

Harris also suggested that she's concerned about the country's existing divisiveness over politics.

"That's the worst thing that's happened to our nation," Harris said.

Madelyn Scales Harris stands at Murfreesboro's City Hall on Monday, May 2, 2022.

Mayor Shane McFarland recommended that people meet face to face while seated with cups of coffee to resolve differences of opinion rather than exchange words through social media.

Maxwell also said the Tennessee Republican Party bylaws permit him to promote party candidates for government offices while he serves on the council.

The local GOP chairman, however, said he intends to recommend that his party's local and state leaders change the policy to prohibit elected government officials from serving on the Rutherford County Republican Party Executive Committee.

Election results: Murfreesboro City Council incumbents Wright, Shacklett and Wade win reelection

Maxwell: GOP endorses 2 candidates for council

Prior to the meeting, Wade said he's gotten phone calls from people wanting to understand why Maxwell is serving both as an elected city official and chairman of the Republican Party.

"Who are you serving? Wade said. "Are you serving your constituents or are you serving the Republican Party?"

Maxwell said the local GOP he leads decided to endorse both Republicans competing in the Aug. 1 election:

Shawn Wright, who won reelection with the most votes out of five candidates competing for three seats;

and Matt Herriman, who placed fifth after touting his experience in serving on Republican Gov. Bill Lee's staff.

Incumbent Murfreesboro Vice Mayor Bill Shacklett won reelection to the council with the second most votes while Wade held his seat with the third most votes.

The Republican chairman also noted that the Rutherford County Democratic Party endorsed council candidate Kelly Northcutt, who placed fourth. Northcutt previously campaigned as a Democratic against elected Republican state Sen. Dawn White of Murfreesboro.

Rutherford County Democratic Party chairperson Morgan Woodberry confirmed the endorsement of Northcutt. The local Democrats, however, did not endorse Shacklett.

Vice Mayor Shacklett had won the Democrat Party primary in 2010 to campaign for the Tennessee House of Representatives District 34 seat before losing to Republican Rick Womick. The GOP nominee replaced then retiring Republican state Sen. Donna Rowland of Murfreesboro.

Election issues: 5 Murfreesboro council candidates wrangle with growth topics at forum ahead of election

GOP withheld endorsement for Maxwell in 2022 when he ran for council

Maxwell said he did notify Wade in advance of the election about the Republican Party endorsements and is surprised his fellow council member would make an issue of the GOP chairman's position.

"It is disappointing," Maxwell said.

The local Republican Party also endorsed Wright in 2020 when he won his seat and 2018 when he unsuccessfully campaigned for council, Maxwell said.

The GOP, however, withheld endorsements for council candidates in 2022 at the request of Maxwell to avoid a "self serving" appearance for him as chairman when he and fellow Republican Jami Averwater won their city council seats.

GOP primary results: Republican state Reps. Tim Rudd and Robert Stevens win contested GOP primaries

Wade: There's 'too much dirty stuff going on behind the scenes'

Kirt Wade and Austin Maxwell

Wade said the issue is not about a political party endorsements.

"It's about an elected official campaigning for a pollical party in a nonpartisan race," Wade said.

Wade said Maxwell and the council should remain nonpartisan and stay away from the divisive national issues because there's "too much dirty stuff going on behind the scenes."

"He is promoting his party as an elected official," Wade said. "Do we think thats right? If I was the chair of the Democratic Party, would they ask me to step down? I think they would. They would say its unethical."

Wade said he tries to vote for the best candidate in the partisan elections, including for former Republican Gov. Bill Haslam.

"Haslam did an excellent job as governor," Wade said.

Averwater v. Stevens: District 13 House Republican candidates spar over immigration in attack campaign mailer

3 local governing bodies in Rutherford have become partisan since 2014

Candidates for city government and Rutherford County Road Board offices campaign strictly as independents.

The 21-member Rutherford County Commission has faced partisan elections since 2014. The current County Commission following the 2022 election consists of 16 Republicans, two Democrats and three independents.

School board candidates used to run strictly as independents until the law changed in 2022 to allow partisan elections. By 2024, the partisan elections have led to voters electing Republicans to serve in all seven Rutherford County Board of Education seats starting in September.

Election results 2024: Vaught, Vaughn, Tidwell and Maxwell win to join all GOP Rutherford County school board

Maxwell promoted the election of fellow Republicans such as Stan Vaught to serve on the county school board that includes Vice Chairman Claire Maxwell, who's married to the local GOP chairman. Austin Maxwell scolded any fellow Republicans by calling each of them a RINO (Republican In Name Only) for backing independent candidate Robert Brooks, the opponent who lost to Vaught in the Aug. 1 election.

Although the county now has an all GOP school board, the Murfreesboro City School Board has one elected Republican, Barbara Long, serving with six independents.

Partisan politics in education: Democrat fears new GOP majority county school board may mean book banning, teacher firing

Reach reporter Scott Broden with news tips or questions by emailing him at sbroden@dnj.com. To support his work with The Daily News Journal, sign up for a digital subscription.

Election schedule 2024 for Rutherford County

Election Day for president and offices for federal, state, Eagleville, La Vergne and Smyrna: Nov. 5

Last day to register to vote in Nov. 5 election: Oct. 7

Absentee by mail voting period for Nov. 5 election: Aug. 7-Oct. 29

Early voting period for Nov. 5 election: Oct. 16-31

Source: Rutherford County Election Commission website

This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Rutherford GOP Chair challenged over partisanship in city council race
As housing prices keep homeownership out of reach for countless Americans, heres how some are making it work

Charly Bass-Davis moved to Wilmington, Delaware, when she was 10 years old. At the time, there were thriving businesses and a solid sense of community.

But with the increase in housing prices, she watched her beloved neighborhood lose its luster in recent years, filling up with unoccupied homes and vacant lots.

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Bass-Davis, who had previously worked as a laborer and restauranter, decided to change that.

She started working with the Jumpstart Wilmington program, which helps local residents own and revitalize property in their neighborhood through community-focused real estate development training and financing options.

Now, she has her own business, Steel Development, which renovates and sells these newly revitalized homes to people with lower incomes.

We have that power and that community union that it takes to uplift and revitalize an entire system, she told 6abc Philadelphia.

Even if you dont have a Bass-Davis pitching in to revamp your city, there are other paths to affordable housing.

Co-buying with family or friends

Bass-Daviss business model leans on the community to make housing more affordable. Consider researching similar avenues that you may be able to access within your own community.

The Federal Reserves latest numbers show that the median sales price of a home is $412,300.

If you plan to put a 20% down payment on a home  the traditional amount  then youd need to have more than $80,000 on hand.

Thats over $20,000 more than most people make in one year, according to the latest salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This startling statistic has inspired some Americans to get creative when it comes to homeownership.

Kristina Modares found a way to get around these high prices. The Austin, Texas, resident pools her savings together with friends to purchase properties around the city. Since age 25, Modares has purchased six homes with her friends.

According to a survey from U.S. surety bond provider, JW Surety Bonds, 13% of Americans had purchased a home in recent years with a non-romantic partner, such as a sibling, friend, or parent.

Story continues

This is because 25% of those who have bought homes with non-romantic partners said they couldnt have afforded a home on their own.

However, there are downsides to this approach. People change and friendships can fall apart, putting your money and property at risk.

To hopefully prevent this from happening to you, its crucial to have frank discussions about money and property before you make any co-buying decisions with non-romantic partners.

It may be wise to involve a lawyer to ensure that everyone has proper legal protections in place should the plan fall apart. Think of it as a prenup, but for friends.

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)

An alternative real estate investment

If youre wary of co-buying a home with friends or family, alternative real estate investments offer a low-cost entry into the housing market.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) generate passive income and are bought and sold just like stocks.

If youre looking for exposure to real estate without the actual hassle of homeownership  no need to stress about broken furnaces or leaky roofs  REITs are a beginner-friendly investment that doesnt require large amounts of money to invest.

It also allows you to diversify your portfolio across property types (apartment buildings or shopping centers, for example) and geographic locations.

Publicly-traded REITs offer the advantage of liquidity because investors can sell their shares at any time. This may be a preferable avenue for those who want to avoid any possible protracted legal struggles with a non-romantic co-owner down the road.

What to read next

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Gov. Cooper activates 300+ soldiers, airmen as Debby moves in on NC

RALEIGH, N.C.(WNCN)  With a state of emergency in effect, Governor Roy Cooper addressed the public Wednesday with a look at how the state was preparing for Tropical Storm Debby.

The governor said the storm had the potential to bring life-threatening flash flooding, riverine flooding, wind gusts up to 40 mph, coastal impacts and other effects.

Even without the constant high winds, we must be in high alert. This storm can bring dangerous conditions, the governor said.

The state has fully activated its emergency response center.

ALERT DAY: Debby slightly stronger, heavy rain tonight, Thursday

Cooper reported 350 soldiers and airmen from the North Carolina National Guard with high-water vehicles are activated. Preparations also include the activation and staging of 17 swift water rescue teams, largely in the eastern portion of the state.

The state reported it was ready to deploy commodities, including water, to nine counties in the southeast part of the state. In addition, hazmat response teams are ready to respond.

I am confident that while we hope for the best, we are prepared for the worst, Cooper said.

With more rain expected than many communities month, Cooper emphasized the importance of staying informed and avoiding flood areas.

Now is not the time to see if your car floats, because it doesnt, Cooper said.

Tropical Storm Debby could be first major storm for new Wake Co. Emergency Operations Center

President Joe Biden approved federal disaster funding on Wednesday thats available to North Carolina.

Emergency protective measures will be provided at 75% federal funding for the following counties in central North Carolina:

Chatham

Cumberland

Durham

Edgecombe

Franklin

Granville

Halifax

Harnett

Hoke

Johnston

Lee

Moore

Nash

Northampton

Orange

Person

Sampson

Vance

Wake

Warren

Wayne

Wilson

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper will be in Charlotte Wednesday pushing his efforts further to relieve people of medical debt.

Just last week federal regulators approved the states intended use of the Medicaid program for that goal. North Carolina will offer incentives to hospitals to forgive portions of patients debt for medical care.

Cooper will be in Uptown Wednesday afternoon for the local announcement and will be joined by NCDHHS leader Kody Kinsley.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MARYLAND (DC News Now)  Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed a State of Preparedness declaration on Tuesday.

This declaration comes as heavy rainfall and winds associated with Tropical Storm Debby are expected to hit the DMV on Thursday afternoon. Gov. Moore said residents should monitor weather forecasts and stay vigilant.

The safety of Marylanders is our top priority. By declaring a State of Preparedness, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby, said Gov. Moore.

Virginia governor declares state of emergency ahead of Tropical Storm Debby

According to the National Hurricane Center forecast for Tropical Storm Debby, potential remnants of the storm will push into the Mid-Atlantic late this week and into Saturday morning. Officials said rain could become heavy at times, and tidal flooding is the main threat.

Maryland officials are recommending residents to stay ready by doing the following:

Encourage your family and friends to finish preparedness activities now. Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.

If you live in an evacuation zone, you may have to evacuate quickly when storms hit. To learn if you live, work or vacation in an Evacuation Zone in Maryland, please visit our Know Your Zone page . Learn your evacuation routes, practice with your household and pets, and identify where you will stay.

Follow the instructions from local emergency managers, who work closely with state and local agencies and partners. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.

Keep your cell phone, tablet and laptop charged when you know a storm is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.

Check with neighbors, senior adults or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans to see how you can be of assistance to others.

Have enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectant and pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. You may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks after a hurricane.

To receive alerts and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or potentially impacting Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or MdListo for Spanish.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Missouri Gov. Mike Parsons recent executive order banning the sale of intoxicating hemp products is a severe blow to the states hemp industry, which has been a beacon of legal economic growth and innovation since the 2018 farm bill. This executive overreach not only jeopardizes thousands of jobs, but also raises serious ethical and constitutional questions, especially considering the timing and the apparent conflicts of interest.

Parsons executive order targets unregulated psychoactive cannabis products that include Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Delta-10 THC, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-O), tetrahydrocannabiphoral (THCP), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and other similar compounds, under the pretext of protecting children. However, this reasoning falls flat when scrutinized.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, unregulated hemp products account for 40% of cannabis-related calls to the poison control center. When asked about the other 60% coming from the highly regulated legal cannabis industry, officials had no satisfactory response. This discrepancy suggests that the unregulated hemp market might be more effective at keeping cannabis out of childrens hands than the regulated marijuana market.

Moreover, the executive order does nothing to prevent online sales or sales in venues outside the control of the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, which means that only Missouri-owned retailers with liquor licenses and local manufacturers are impacted. This selective enforcement appears designed to protect the interests of the multistate operators that currently dominate the states regulated marijuana market.

The timing of the executive order  right before an election, and the substantial donations from the marijuana industry to Parson and Attorney General Andrew Bailey  raise serious ethical concerns. One of the larger donations from the marijuana sector was $25,000 from MO Majority PAC, a political action committee tied to lobbyist and longtime Parson adviser Steve Tilley. This connection suggests that the executive order may be more about financial interests than child safety.

On July 30, The Missouri Independent reported: Last month, Uniting Missouri accepted a $50,000 donation from the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association and $15,000 from Torch Electronics, a Wildwood-based company accused of operating illegal gambling machines across the state. Torch also donated $15,000 to Uniting Missouri, a pro-Parson PAC.

State Rep. Tony Lovasco of District 64 aptly criticized the executive order, stating: It is absolutely unacceptable. The legislature debated bills to do similar things and rightfully rejected them. For the governor to then step in and unilaterally prohibit previously legal commerce is a massive overreach of his Executive Authority. Moreover, its a terrible policy. Missouri should not be putting entire industries out of business simply because its too lazy to properly regulate product safety.

Conflict of interest in Jefferson City?

During the 2024 session of the Missouri General Assembly, the hemp industry sought to introduce regulations and age verification for hemp-derived cannabinoids. However, these efforts were thwarted by the marijuana industrys insistence that only licensed marijuana businesses be allowed to manufacture or sell these products. State Rep. Barry Hovis introduced a compromise amendment that was ultimately opposed by marijuana industry lobbyists, ending the prospect of fair regulation.

A major component of legislative interest in the issue comes from law enforcement, specifically the Law Enforcement Legislative Coalition and its lobbyist Dena Ladd. Ladd also serves as a member of the board of directors for the cannabis trade association MoCannTrade and is an investor in the St. Louis Cannabis Company. Her dual roles and investment interests highlight a conflict of interest, as she is hardly a neutral player in this effort.

Jefferson Citys marijuana licensing has been extremely controversial. In 2020, 85% of marijuana license applications were denied in a process criticized for its opacity and bias. More than 850 lawsuits were filed against the state for these denials, with accusations of a rigged system benefiting a select few. John Payne, campaign manager for Legal Missouri 2022, has been accused of manipulating the lottery for marijuana microbusiness licenses to favor those who signed predatory consulting contracts with him. Rod Chapel, president of the Missouri NAACP, expressed disappointment that the licensing process is being monopolized by Payne. Adolphus Pruitt, President of the St. Louis NAACP, also criticized the process, calling it indentured servitude.

Parsons executive order does not prevent online sales or sales in venues other than those controlled by Alcohol and Tobacco Control. The only businesses impacted are Missouri-owned retailers with liquor licenses and Missouri product manufacturers. But since the highly regulated and federally illegal marijuana industry, controlled by multistate operators, is responsible for most cannabis poisoning calls in Missouri, this raises questions about the efficacy and fairness of the new regulations. The federally legal hemp industry has suffered a severe blow, with constitutional rights potentially being ignored.

No mention of Delta-9 THC in order

Critics have noted that the executive order does not mention Delta-9 THC, speculating that this is because non-hemp-derived Delta-9 is a controlled substance. The state couldnt make arguments against it without admitting deficiencies in their marijuana program. This omission suggests manufacturers will switch to hemp-derived Delta-9 THC instead of other isomers approved in the 2018 farm bill. This could mean the bad actors Bailey claims to target would continue their operations unimpeded, while the state punishes its own residents for running federally legal businesses that threaten new marijuana tax revenues.

Although hemp industry interests offered language addressing regulatory concerns, the marijuana industry opposed these efforts, seeking instead to ban hemp-derived products outside of marijuana dispensaries. Additionally, bills seeking to ban hemp products were also rejected. Despite these efforts, the state proceeded with an executive order, bypassing the legislative process and raising further concerns about the democratic process and the rights of Missouris hemp industry stakeholders.

Despite what most people likely thought they voted for, cannabis remains on Missouris controlled substance schedule  meaning that while it enjoys non-enforcement, marijuana is still illegal in many regards in the state. In contrast, hemp remains federally legal in all regards, even as the state government exerts overreach.

Parsons executive order banning unregulated psychoactive cannabis products has significant ethical and legal implications, particularly given his administrations financial ties to the marijuana industry and the timing of the order. Like attacks on the Second Amendment and firearms manufacturers, Parson seems to have a double standard for hemp, especially when Missouri ranks near the top of all states in the nation for unintentional pediatric deaths due to firearms, with at least 129 children killed from 2015 to 2023. In contrast, no deaths have been reported from hemp. Is it really for the kids, or has Parson adopted Orwellian newspeak?

As cannabis lawyer Rod Kight recently told me: This executive order doesnt actually solve any of the problems it claims to address; it only hurts the legal hemp industry. Missouri doesnt need AG Bailey and Gov. Parsons show-me-the-money style of leadership. We need leadership that looks out for both the residents and locally-owned businesses in our own state.

John Grady is product developer and farmer of SlapHappy Hemp Company in Hermann, Missouri.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Governor Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will be heading to the Republic of Panama next week from August 10 to August 13.

The trip is for an international trade mission. Panama is a key trade partner for Missouri, with $37 million in exports in 2023.

According to the Missouri Governors Office of Communications, the goal is to build relationships with key international figures to promote Missouris capacity for trade. Parson will be meeting with government officials and diplomats.

Mayor Lucas says election was good for Chiefs, Royals staying in Missouri

Additionally, Parson will visit Missouri National Guard members who are currently participating in an exercise focused on ensuring free transit of commerce through the Panama Canal.

This Trade Mission serves as another opportunity to strengthen relationships with key international partners, Governor Parson said.

Our state has enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Panama that includes the support of the brave men and women of the Missouri National Guard. Were excited to again promote our state abroad while deepening ties that support mutual economic prosperity.

Missouri will be celebrating its 28 years of partnership with Panama during Parsons visit. The Missouri National Guard has participated in a State Partnership Program with the republic since 1996. The partnership supports the United States security objectives by building relationships with partners across 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Political-leaning social media was ablaze this past weekend after news that Gov. Ron DeSantis' memoir, "The Courage to Be Free," made its way onto Chiles High School's Advanced Placement Language and Composition 2024 summer reading list.

The list, first posted on X by Florida Politics publisher Peter Schorsch, sparked controversy from the left with claims of "indoctrination" of high school students.

On Tuesday, Chiles Principal Joseph Burgess said the list isn't new but the governor's memoir had been recently added. The school's English department wanted to provide a diverse list of options for students to keep in mind, he explained.

The titles featured are suggestions, Burgess added, meaning students can choose any memoir to read for the summer assignment, not just the ones listed.

Published in 2023, DeSantis' memoir focuses largely on his gubernatorial resume in the Sunshine State, including his leadership during the pandemic, and his defense against claims of media attacks as he did away with critical race theory and what he termed 'woke ideology' in classrooms and workplaces. A request for comment is pending with the governor's press office.

#BREAKING: The syllabus for Lawton Chiles High School in Tallahassee has surfaced online, revealing that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis memoir, The Courage to Be Free, has been added to the states high school AP summer reading programs. pic.twitter.com/Ium8l4To8m  Willi Quinn (@willi_quinn) August 3, 2024

"That's not our part to say, 'here's who you should like.' We're not trying to indoctrinate and get people to like the governor. We just give suggestions to look through," Burgess told the Tallahassee Democrat.

Advanced Placement, or AP, offers college-level learning and exams to high school students. DeSantis previously feuded with the College Board, which manages AP courses and curriculums, over the standards of critical race theory and gender identity for AP African American Studies and AP Psychology, both topics he has publicly opposed.

"This is an issue between the governor's office and their feelings about AP. As a school, we don't really get into that," Burgess said. "What we do is give options of books to kids that in their homes they may appreciate."

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Burgess is running for Leon County superintendent of schools as a non-party affiliated candidate in the general election against one of two Democrats, incumbent Superintendent Rocky Hanna or Star Swain, the elementary school principal at Tallahassee's FAMU Developmental Research School.

The list includes 13 memoirs in total from a number of authors, such as South African comedian Trevor Noah, the late Arizona U.S. Sen. John McCain and author Stephen King. Students were instructed to analyze the memoir of their choosing for word choice, tone, sentence structure, intended audience and context by the first day of class.

Novels that are required reading for the course by the College Board are "The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne and "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald and will be read in class throughout the school year.

Alaijah Brown covers children & families for the Tallahassee Democrat. She can be reached at ABrown1@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter/X: @AlaijahBrown3.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Chiles High reading list with DeSantis memoir prompts online buzz
Isnt it curious how almost every problem this country faces seems to have a ready-made solution rooted in digital authoritarianism?

Less than one month into his premiership, Sir Keir Starmer was faced with an unthinkably monstrous fatal stabbing of three little girls, followed by some of the most shameful scenes of street violence in our countrys living memory. His governments response has notably included online censorship powers and AI facial recognition surveillance.

There could hardly be a more brute, physical, real-world problem than people in Britain attacking each other, destroying small businesses and vandalising peoples homes because of their perceived ethnicity, religion and colour. And yet some Labour ministers have responded to this backwards brutality by pointing the finger at online disinformation and agitating for state-backed social media censorship  and now Technology Secretary Peter Kyle is reviving Whitehalls disgraced Counter Disinformation Unit (now deceptively rebranded as the National Security Online Information Team) which was responsible for the secretive, politicised and sometimes unlawful speech-policing against Brits during the pandemic.

The governments counter disinformation activity during Covid, exposed by Big Brother Watch and The Telegraph, included spreading actual disinformation about British broadcaster Julia Hartley-Brewer across the UK and even US governments because she opposed the prospect of mandatory vaccines in schools. Countering disinformation also meant keeping tabs on former minister David Davis MP, noting that he was influential and highly critical of government, because he questioned mandatory vaccine passports and lockdown modelling.

It even included keeping notes on social media posts by world-leading scientists like Professor Carl Heneghan, deploying a secretive Army unit to keep tabs on domestic political dissent, making daily extrajudicial censorship requests to foreign social media companies to suppress lawful online speech in Britain.

If the history of chaos that threatens democracy teaches us anything, it is to protect our democratic rights with more vigour, not less, when they are under threat. At a time when parts of the population are in complete disharmony, to crack down on free speech would be a grave mistake.

Not only would renewed censorship inflame tensions, sow distrust and undermine democracy  it would fail to address the cancer of hatred in our country. The so-called experts at the Center for Countering Digital Hate went so far as to say American social media giants are to blame for the chaos in Southport. It is a textbook example of how disinformation can lead to real-world violence, the group said  ironically, on social media.

Thats because early posts spreading across online platforms falsely alleging that the Southport suspect was an asylum seeker. But these lies were spread by hardened racists, Islamophobes and far-Right agitators  they are a blatant symptom of the problem, not the cause. But had the suspect been an asylum seeker surely we can agree that the racist thuggery that followed would have been just as heinous? And who would the digital censors have blamed then, without disinformation as the problem in need of a censorial solution?

No one that is serious about anti-racism should make such a lazy assertion that misinformation must obviously result in real-world violence, framing it as some kind of natural consequence. It is not.

How we diagnose these problems is important because with lazy explanations come lazy policies. The explanation of internet lies is a neat way to package the long-term break down in law and order, disintegrating social fabric and simmering racism in our country  and it comes with the very neat response of online censorship that benefits elites who have never really trusted us with free and open access to information online.

To explain how groups of Britons have set fire to hotels full of men, women and children, we need to focus on those individuals and the wider health of our society, not give Government censors a blank cheque to decide what we can read, see, or hear.

Silkie Carlo is Director of Big Brother Watch

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.
Governor declares 'state of emergency' in Russia's Kursk Oblast, says situation remains 'very difficult'

The situation in Russia's Kursk Oblast "remains difficult" amid the ongoing battles in the area, said acting Governor Alexey Smirnov on Aug. 7.

Smirnov added that he had declared a "state of emergency" in the oblast "in order to eliminate the consequences of enemy forces entering the area."

Ukrainian forces crossed the border into Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil that were described by Russian President Vladimir Putin as "a large-scale provocation." Kyiv has not commented on the fighting in the area.

Several thousand people have been reportedly evacuated amid the ongoing fighting in the oblast, Russian media reported.

Russian pro-Kremlin Telegram channels claimed that fighting was ongoing in the region's towns of Sudzha and Korenevo, writing that the Russian military has retreated from the Sudzha gas metering station, which transits gas to Europe through Ukraine.

Earlier in the day, Sudzha Mayor Vitaliy Slashchov said the situation in the town was "very tense."

Valery Gerasimov, chief of the General Staff of the Russian army, told Putin via video that Ukrainian soldiers allegedly aimed to "seize" the territory of Sudzhansky district, but their "advance in the direction of Kursk was halted."

These claims cannot be verified independently.

Satellite imagery obtained by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) shows significant damage to the Sudzha border crossing point as of the morning of Aug. 6.

Read also: Ukraine brings war back to Russian soil with unprecedented attack on Kursk Oblast

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
SEATTLE (AP)  Washington states longtime attorney general has advanced to the November general election in the race to become governor.

Democratic candidate Bob Ferguson went up against more than two dozen candidates in Tuesdays primary election. He will face former U.S. Rep. Dave Reichert, a Republican, in November.

Washington hasnt had an open race for the states top job in more than a decade. Washington has long had a reputation as a solid Democratic stronghold and hasnt had a Republican governor in nearly 40 years.

Republican Dave Reichert (left) will face Democrat Bob Ferguson in the 2024 race to become Washingtons governor (AP file photos)

The other state races

In the lieutenant governors race, Democrat Denny Heck has 49.47% of the vote to Republican Dan Matthews 21.91%. That race has 50% of the vote counted.

The race for attorney general will feature Republican Pete Serrano and Democrat Nick Brown in November. In early results, Serrano had a 41.70  36.03% lead over Brown. The Associated Press called the race for Serrano and Brown.

Democrat Steve Hobbs and Republican Dale Whitaker will face off for secretary of state. With 55% reporting, Hobbs leads Whitaker 49.21  36.65%. The AP called this race for both men.

And the race for the US Senate seat in Washington is set, as incumbent Maria Cantwell and Republican Raul Garcia locked in the top 2 spots. Cantwell has 57.35% of the vote counted with Garcia at 20.91%.

Primary day

The Washington state primary will be held Tuesday. Polls close at 8 p.m. PT.

Whats on the ballot

The Associated Press will provide coverage for 62 contested races, including all-party primaries for governor, U.S. Senate, U.S. House, state executive offices, state Supreme Court and both state legislative chambers.

Who gets to vote

Any registered voter in Washington may participate in the primary election.

Decision notes

Besides conducting all-party primaries, Washington conducts its elections entirely by mail. All registered voters are sent an absentee ballot, and as long as the ballots are postmarked by election day, they can be counted.

Like other all-mail states, Washington tends to count its vote relatively slowly. In state races, slow vote-counting could delay a call for one or both spots on the November ballot if its not clear which candidates will prevail once all votes are tabulated.

For statewide races, the key counties to watch are the populous counties of King, which includes Seattle, and its northern and southern neighbors, Pierce and Snohomish.

The AP does not make projections and will declare a winner only when its determined there is no scenario that would allow the trailing candidates to close the gap. If a race has not been called, the AP will continue to cover any newsworthy developments, such as candidate concessions or declarations of victory. In doing so, the AP will make clear that it has not yet declared a winner and explain why.

What do turnout and advance vote look like?

As of July 19, there were 4,831,157 registered voters in Washington. Washington does not register voters by party.

In the 2024 presidential primaries, turnout was 35% of just under 4.9 million registered voters.

Absentee ballots began going out on July 19. As of July 31, more than 608,000 ballots had been cast in the all-party primaries.

How long does vote-counting usually take?

In the 2024 Democratic presidential primary, the AP first reported results at 8:02 p.m. PT, or two minutes after polls closed. The election night tabulation ended at 8:30 p.m. PT with about 71% of total votes counted.

Are we there yet?

As of Tuesday, there will be 91 days until the November general election.

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(Bloomberg) -- Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.s $14 billion deal to buy Juniper Networks Inc. was cleared by the UKs antitrust watchdog, paving the way for the firm to expand its presence in networking.

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The Competition and Markets Authority said Wednesday it had cleared the tie-up after investigating whether it would cause a substantial lessening of competition in the UK.

The EU already waved through the deal last week, saying it didnt raise competition concerns in the markets examined. The US Department of Justice is still looking at the deal and has sent a so-called second request for further information.

Juniper, like its bigger rival Cisco Systems Inc., makes networking devices such as routers and switches. Networking is the technology that directs the flow of information between devices and across the internet. At the time of the deal announcement, HPE said it would pay $40 a share in cash for Juniper.

We will continue working to complete all necessary remaining reviews and secure additional clearances quickly and efficiently, a HPE spokesperson said. We continue to expect to close by the end of calendar year 2024 or early 2025.

(Updates with a comment from a HPE spokesperson in the final paragraph)

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A school of blue-green chromid fish swim above corals on Moore Reef in Gunggandji Sea Country off coast of Queensland in eastern Australia on Nov. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Sam McNeil)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Ocean temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef hit their highest level in 400 years over the past decade, according to researchers who warned that the reef likely wont survive if planetary warming isnt stopped.

During that time, between 2016 and 2024, the Great Barrier Reef, the worlds largest coral reef ecosystem and one of the most biodiverse, suffered mass coral bleaching events. That's when water temperatures get too hot and coral expel the algae that provide them with color and food, and sometimes die. Earlier this year, aerial surveys of over 300 reefs in the system off Australia's northeast coast found bleaching in shallow water areas spanning two-thirds of the reef, according to Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

Researchers from Melbourne University and other universities in Australia, in a paper published Wednesday in the journal Nature, were able to compare recent ocean temperatures to historical ones by using coral skeleton samples from the Coral Sea to reconstruct sea surface temperature data from 1618 to 1995. They coupled that with sea surface temperature data from 1900 to 2024.

They observed largely stable temperatures before 1900, and steady warming from January to March from 1960 to 2024. And during five years of coral bleaching in the past decade  during 2016, 2017, 2020, 2022 and 2024  temperatures in January and March were significantly higher than anything dating back to 1618, researchers found. They used climate models to attribute the warming rate after 1900 to human-caused climate change. The only other year nearly as warm as the mass bleaching years of the past decade was 2004.

The reef is in danger and if we dont divert from our current course, our generation will likely witness the demise of one of those great natural wonders, said Benjamin Henley, the studys lead author and a lecturer of sustainable urban management at the University of Melbourne. "If you put all of the evidence together ... heat extremes are occurring too often for those corals to effectively adapt and evolve.

Across the world, reefs are key to seafood production and tourism. Scientists have long said additional loss of coral is likely to be a casualty of future warming as the world approaches the 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) threshold that countries agreed to try and keep warming under in the 2015 Paris climate agreement.

Even if global warming is kept under the Paris Agreements goal, which scientists say Earth is almost guaranteed to cross, 70% to 90% of corals across the globe could be threatened, the study's authors said. As a result, future coral reefs would likely have less diversity in coral species  which has already been happening as the oceans have grown hotter.

Coral reefs have been evolving over the past quarter century in response to bleaching events like the ones the studys authors highlighted, said Michael McPhaden, a senior climate scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration who was not involved with the study. But even the most robust coral may soon not be able to withstand the elevated temperatures expected under a warming climate with the relentless rise in greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, he said.

The Great Barrier Reef serves as an economic resource for the region and protects against severe tropical storms.

As more heat-tolerant coral replaces the less heat-tolerant species in the colorful underwater rainbow jungle, McPhaden said there's real concern about the expected extreme loss in the number of species and reduction in area that the world's largest reef covers.

Its the canary in the coal mine in terms of climate change, McPhaden said.

___

This story has corrected attribution for the aerial surveys in the 2nd paragraph to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, rather than NASA.

___

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.
BEAVERCREEK TWP., Ohio (WDTN)  A local park restroom was vandalized this week.

The womens bathroom at Russ Nature Reserve, located at 2380 Kemp Road, was vandalized, according to a post from Greene County Parks & Trails. An attached photo shows the bathroom sink broken off into pieces.

One-man wrecking ball: Man indicted on 63 charges related to vandalism

The parks department says the womens restroom will be closed until repairs can be made.

We have crews getting the necessary supplies to get it fixed and back open, the post read. We will get it open as soon as possible.

If anyone knows anything about the vandalism, reach out to Greene County Parks & Trails.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Grijalva pushes for creation of Great Bend of the Gila National Monument in southern Arizona

Woolsey Peak, located within the proposed Great Bend of the Gila National Monument in southern Arizona. Photo courtesy Dawn Kish, The Wilderness Society

To protect more than 370,000 acres of the Great Bend of the Gila and Sonoran Desert Landscape, a Democratic congressman from Tucson has introduced legislation to establish a new national monument in southern Arizona.

The Great Bend of the Gila is a sacred place rich with history and deeply significant to all the communities connected to it, U.S. Rep Raul M. Grijalva said in a press release.

Grijalva, a ranking member on the House Natural Resources Committee, introduced the Great Bend of the Gila National Monument Establishment Act this month to protect the cultural, historical, archeological, and natural resources across the Great Bend of the Gila and Sonoran Desert.

The proposed monument consists of 376,963 acres of land administered by the Bureau of Land Management in Arizona. The act will permanently ban the withdrawal of mineral extraction from lands within the monument. Existing grazing leases and permits will not be affected.

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The Great Bend of the Gila National Monument would expand the legacy of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Commission and the Baaj Nwaavjo Itah Kukveni  Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon Commission by elevating tribal perspectives in the ongoing management of this treasured landscape, Grijalva added, referring to recent national monuments created in Utah and Arizona.

The Great Bend of the Gila is home to significant cultural, historical, archeological and natural resources, and at least 13 federally recognized tribes maintain cultural and ancestral connections to the region.

The Great Bend represents our lives past and present. It stands as a living library and monument still in existence, Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe Tribal Council Member Gloria L. McGee said in a written statement. It contains sites that are in danger of destruction unless priority is given to preservation of the area for future generations.

The bill states that the purpose of the national monument is to protect and restore these resources for present and future generations.

I am proud to stand alongside the tribes and honor their years of dedication to preserving the cultural, historic, and natural heritage of this magnificent landscape by introducing this legislation, Grijalva said.

If the monument is established, the act calls for tribes to have co-stewardship. The bill states that the Interior secretary would be required to consult with interested tribal nations regarding the management of the monument, including ensuring that the management decisions affecting it are informed by and reflect tribal expertise and traditional ecological knowledge.

Bringing tribal voices to the forefront of land management is not just a moral imperative  it is key to ensuring that our natural legacy can be protected for generations to come, Grijalva said.

The Interior secretary would have to establish a tribal commission to provide guidance and recommendations on developing and implementing a management plan and policies for the national monument. The commission would consist of one representative from each of the interested tribes.

Courtesy of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources

Multiple tribes, including the Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe, Tohono Oodham Nation and Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe, support the bill.

The Tohono Oodham Nation and other tribes have deep cultural and religious connections to the Great Bend of the Gila stretching back to time immemorial, Tohono Oodham Chairman Verlon Jose said in a written statement.

This bill also ensures that tribes continue to have a voice in the future of these lands and how they will be protected in the years to come, Jose said. The Tohono Oodham Nation urges passage of this important bill that will safeguard a vital part of Americas Indigenous and environmental heritage.

In a letter of support for the monument, the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe stated that it supports the legislation because of the tribes traditional and cultural connections to the area since time immemorial.

The rock writings and geoglyphs included in the proposed monument area tell of the ancient First Yavapai People, who lived and walked in these lands, Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe President Robert Ogo said in the letter of support.

They tell of sacred areas where Yavapai First Leaders remains are located and the history of the mountains and trails that were used from the time of the first humans through the Spanish Conquest, he added.

The 13 federally recognized tribes with ties to the region include the Ak-Chin Indian Community, Cocopah Indian Tribe, Colorado River Indian Tribes, Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, Fort Mojave Indian Tribe, the Fort Yuma-Quechan Indian Tribe, Gila River Indian Community, Hopi Tribe, Pueblo of Zuni, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Tohono Oodham Nation, Yavapai-Apache Nation, and Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe.

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A man staying at a Christian camp in Arizona fatally shot a Peoria resident who was set to be the best man at his upcoming wedding, local authorities announced Friday.

Jack Creed, 22, died shortly after the July 26 incident at United Christian Youth Camp in Prescott, with a camp spokesperson telling HuffPost on Tuesday that Creed had worked on staff there. The man who fired his weapon has not been named.

The shooting seemed to be accidental, according to a press release from the Yavapai County Sheriffs Office.

A sheriff's vehicle is shown in a photo from the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office in Arizona. Yavapai County Sheriff's Office

Investigators said that Creed and his friend had been hunting skunks in a secluded part of the campgrounds.

After they were finished, and trying to make sure their weapons were clear, the shooter was pointing his weapon across at the victim and after pulling the charging handle back several times, the shooter thought the weapon was empty and pulled the trigger firing a .22 caliber round into the abdomen of the victim, the sheriffs office wrote.

Creed was taken to an area hospital, where his condition was stabilized, but complications arose while he was being transported to a hospital in Phoenix. He died the morning of July 27 after surgery.

The shooting is still under investigation, and no charges have been filed, according to local media.

The sheriffs office did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment. The Yavapai County Attorneys Office declined to comment when reached by email.

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Gun fired as they fell from balcony while fighting. Columbus police arrest man for assault

The Columbus Police Department announced Wednesday the arrest of a man allegedly involved in a shooting while falling from a balcony in southeast Columbus five months ago.

Police said Adrian Keaton was arrested Tuesday on outstanding warrants in connection to a March 26 incident in the 3300 block of Matilda Lane.

Keaton allegedly produced a weapon during a confrontation with another male, according to police.

Police said both men fell from a second-floor balcony. Keaton allegedly fired a round during the fall.

Police said Keaton also fell on the victim, causing injury.

Keaton was arrested and charged with the following crimes, according to police:

two counts of aggravated assault

possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime

possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Gun-rights groups are pursuing several strategies to win the right to openly carry firearms in Florida. (Photo by Matt Rourke/The Associated Press)

While Republican leaders in the Legislature supported a permitless carry law last year that allows people to carry concealed weapons without a government-issued license, House Speaker Paul Renner and especially Senate President Kathleen Passidomo resisted loosening other gun regulations in the Sunshine State during their two-year reign in power.

One such proposal is known as open carry  the wearing or carrying of a firearm in a clearly visible manner. Florida is one of four states that bans open carrying of guns.

Gun-rights advocates, weary of fighting the Legislature for that idea, filed a lawsuit in federal court this week attempting to overturn Floridas open carry ban, but those same advocates also say that theyre reaching out to members of the House and Senate about getting a bill filed for the 2025 legislative session that would do the same thing.

Were already talking to lawmakers to introduce legislation next session, said Luis Valdes, Florida state chair of Gun Owners of America. We never give up the fight.

The effort comes with renewed optimism with new leadership taking over the Florida Legislature later this year: Miami-Dades Daniel Perez in the House and Central Florida Republican Ben Albritton in the Senate.

Weve been having conversations with the new incoming Senate president and, while hes not made any commitments, I think hes going to be much more open to at least allowing pro-Second Amendment legislation to be heard, said Bob White, chair of the Republican Liberty Caucus.

And of course last session and the session before, President Passidomo just had an almost outright ban on Second Amendment bills even being heard, much less passed. So Im optimistic that we might see some progress next year.

Senate reluctance

Passidomos resistance was reflected in the fate of proposals that attempted to chip away at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, passed just weeks after the tragic shootings in Parkland that killed 17 people in February 2018.

In both 2023 and 2024 sessions, the Florida House passed bills that would have lowered the age for Floridians to buy a long gun from a federally licensed dealer from 21 to 18. On both occasions, not only did the Senate not follow suit, but no members even filed a companion bill.

Similarly, a measure that would have repealed a part of the 2018 legislation requiring that there either be a mandatory three-day waiting period to purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer or a forced wait for a completed background check was also passed in the House, but never received a committee vote in the Senate earlier this year.

The permitless carry bill was part of the wish list that Gov. Ron DeSantis supported during the 2023 session, which saw major reforms passed by the Legislature in other areas in the months leading to the governors presidential run. But not open carry, much to the consternation of the gun-rights groups.

In the middle of that session, then-Hillsborough County Republican House member Mike Beltran filed an open carry amendment but immediate pushback from GOP leaders forced him to withdraw his bill the next day.

I had the [GOP] leadership and my caucus and the NRA who were all against the open carry amendment. They were all against it, Beltran recounted. In fairness, they thought the [permitless concealed carry] bill was going to the Senate and then Passidomo wasnt going to hear it, and it was going to upset this very delicate deal that they made for the Senate to pass permitless carry  a deal, he added, that neither he nor other House members were consulted about.

Speaker Renner told him he should withdraw the bill and then run it during the 2024 session, Beltran said. Which is what Beltran did but, he said, again there was no support from House leadership. He didnt return my call. And so obviously the bill didnt go through.

Missing in this discussion is where exactly Gov. DeSantis was in all of this back and forth. The governor was captured in an audio recording telling Valdes in March 2023 that while he absolutely supported open carry, he didnt think the Legislature would vote for it.

The point is, if DeSantis had said to do it, I think Renner and for that matter Passidomo would have been hard pressed to say no, said Beltran, who decided earlier this year not to run for re-election to his Hillsborough County House seat.

And he didnt lean in at that point, and that was when he was at the height of his power. It wasnt like they were going to draw a big line in the sand at that. He was getting all kinds of things at that point. They certainly could have done it.

Sheriffs opposition

Historically on this issue, one reason the Legislature has been hesitant to support open carry is because of opposition from the powerful Florida Sheriffs Association.

Former St. Johns County Sheriff David Shoar, now running in the Republican state Senate primary election in Senate District 7 in Northeast Florida, said he used to be against open carry but now supports the idea.

I actually used to be firmly against it, and part of that was that back in the day a great deal of law enforcement officers were being killed by their own handguns, he said. Now, that changed as our holstering and our training changed. So, I was leery of it for that purpose, but Im really not now.

If Republicans want to prove how pro-gun they are, they could pass legislation and moot our case, Valdes said. But they havent passed open carry over the years, so were going to fight it tooth and nail, no matter what.

Florida Democratic Senate hopeful Debbie Mucarsel-Powell is an advocate for gun safety legislation. She lost her father to gun violence back in Ecuador, and opposes the idea of allowing for open carry in Florida.

Florida leads the nation in mass shootings in 2024, she told the Phoenix in a text message. We should be focused on ways to make our communities safer and to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous criminals.

Mucarsel-Powell calls lawmakers who support open carry extremists in Tallahassee who want to keep our communities less safe. They dont care about stopping violent crime, making our kids feel safe at school, or protecting the law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to stop gun violence in our communities.

The Phoenix reached out to incoming House Speaker Perez and incoming Senate President Albritton, but did not receive responses.
A customer tries out a semi-automatic pistol at The Gun Store on Nov. 14, 2008, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Although Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has voiced support allowing for the open carrying of firearms in Florida, he hasnt done much to persuade the GOP-led Legislature to actually pass such legislation.

Now two Second Amendment groups say theyre tired of waiting for the state to act and have filed a lawsuit in federal court challenging Floridas ban on open carry.

The Gun Owners of America (GOA), Gun Owners Foundation, and Palm Beach County resident Richard Hughes filed a 40-page lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida on Tuesday, alleging that the ban on open carry of firearms violates the Second and Fourteenth amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Despite its reputation as a largely gun-friendly state, Florida inexplicably continues to prohibit the peaceable carrying of firearms in an open and unconcealed manner, the lawsuit begins.

This blatant infringement of the Second Amendment right to bear arms runs counter to this nations historical tradition and would have criminalized the very colonists who openly carried their muskets and mustered on the greens at Lexington and Concord to right for their independence.

The complaint mentions that the states open carry ban, initially adopted in 1893, came decades after Reconstruction and more than a century after the Second Amendment was ratified. Making matters worse, it avers, is that the 1893 carry ban targeted only a disfavored subset of the population  newly freed blacks  while whites enjoyed de facto immunity from enforcement.

During the 2023 legislative session, the Florida GOP-controlled Legislature passed a law allowing residents to legally carry concealed weapons without having to obtain a permit through the state, a measure known by supporters as constitutional carry and by everyone else as permitless carry.

But several prominent gun rights advocates were outspoken during the legislative committee process last year that the state wasnt going far enough, and that it needed pass an open carry provision as well. Although the state has a national reputation as one of the strongest advocates for Second Amendment rights, only three other states  California, Illinois, and New York, along with the District of Columbia  ban the open carry of firearms.

Thumbs down from legislative leaders

During the 2024 legislative session held earlier this year, Hillsborough County Republican Mike Beltran filed legislation to allow open carry, as well as allowing lawmakers to carry concealed guns to legislative meetings and in the state Capitol building.

But neither House Speaker Paul Renner or Senate President Kathleen Passidomo showed any enthusiasm for the bill, and it died without a committee hearing. DeSantis, who was on the campaign trail in Iowa in the months leading up to the session, never pushed those leaders to schedule the bill.

You have a Republican House Speaker state that he and his Republican colleagues dont have an appetite to debate and vote on open carry. You have a Republican Senate President state that repealing the under-21 purchase ban is a non-starter. Yet both have the nerve to campaign that theyre pro-gun, said Luis Valdes, Florida state director of Gun Owners of America, in February.

Florida lawmakers claim to be pro-gun, but year after year, theyve refused to repeal the 1987 ban on open carry, leaving Floridians in the very anti-gun company of New York, Illinois, and California, where this is also prohibited, said Erich Pratt, GOAs senior vice president, in a written statement announcing the filing of the lawsuit.

GOA has been left with no choice but to sue the state, especially since GOAs open carry bill was blocked by the Republican legislative leadership during the 2024 sessions first week. The ban has no historical basis and will surely be found unconstitutional under the Bruen precedent. We look forward to making our case and fighting for law-abiding Floridians.

In New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022 struck down a New York law limiting carrying firearms in the open in a decision that greatly expanded gun rights.

However, in June the high court backtracked somewhat in United States v. Rahimi, upholding a federal law that bars people subject to domestic violence restraining orders from owning a firearm.

Norman v. State

In 2017, the Florida Supreme Court upheld state restrictions on openly carrying a firearm, saying in Norman v. State that the law did not violate citizens Second Amendment rights in a case brought up by Dale Lee Norton, a St. Lucie County resident who faced a second-degree misdemeanor charge after he walked down a road with handgun holstered to his hip, according to the Courthouse News Service.

Norman had filed a motion to dismiss the case based on the purported unconstitutionality of Floridas open carry law.

The new lawsuit says that state Supreme Court ruling failed on a couple of fronts: for not once consulting contemporaneous authorities to discern the meaning of the Second Amendments text and failure to conduct a historical analysis of the nations early tradition as to open carry  or any tradition, for that matter.

It adds that the Norman rulings clearly erroneous Second Amendment analysis has no binding effect on this Court.

The defendants listed in the lawsuit are St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson, the St. Lucie Countys Sheriffs Office, Thomas Bakkedahl, state attorney for the 19th Judicial Circuit of Florida, and the States Attorneys Office for that circuit.

Sheriff Pearsons enforcement of the ban on open carry within St. Lucie County places Plaintiffs under imminent threat of arrest and prosecution should they violate the ban on open carry, the complaint says. The same is true for the Sheriffs Office. As for the State Attorneys office, the complaint notes that, in fact, one of the SOAs prior open carry prosecutions led to the decision in Norman v. State.
Gun traffickers from metro Atlanta sentenced for supplying guns to crime scenes across U.S., Canada

Alvin Demar and Joshua Carter have been sentenced to federal prison for trafficking dozens of firearms that were later recovered from crime scenes in multiple states and Canada.

Additionally, Jamal Plunkett received a sentence for possessing one of the trafficked firearms.

Firearm traffickers present an acute and dangerous threat to communities within and outside our district, said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. The sentencing of these defendants is an example of our offices unwavering commitment to work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify and dismantle gun trafficking operations, and to prosecute those who jeopardize the wellbeing of our communities by funneling firearms to criminals.

Identifying and disrupting firearms trafficking is one of ATFs key missions. These convictions and subsequent sentences send a clear message that firearm trafficking and the illegal possession and use of firearms will not be tolerated, ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones said.

Between July 2021 and January 2022, Alvin Demar, a convicted felon with prior convictions for drug trafficking and aggravated robbery, paid individuals, including Joshua Carter, to straw purchase dozens of handguns in the metro Atlanta area.

Demar then sold these weapons to others who either trafficked them or used them in crimes.

The guns purchased and sold by Carter and Demar were recovered from crime scenes in various locations, including Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; the District of Columbia; Gainesville, Georgia; French Camp, California; Edmonton, Canada; and Toronto, Canada. Some of these firearms were used in shootings before law enforcement confiscated them. For example, in November 2021, Carter purchased a Glock pistol linked to three shootings in Atlanta. Another weapon, a Ruger pistol bought by Carter, was stolen and discharged 17 times by Jamal Plunkett in Gainesville, Georgia.

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Demar also illegally possessed numerous firearms. In December 2019, Atlanta police officers arrested Demar after finding a loaded Glock pistol in a vehicle he was driving.

In November 2022, federal agents found another loaded Glock pistol in his bedroom and a USAS-12 semiautomatic shotgun in his garage.

The USAS-12 is classified under federal law as a destructive device and must be registered, which Demar, due to his criminal history, was prohibited from possessing.

Alvin Marvin Demar, 47, of Decatur, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Eleanor L. Ross to 15 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He was convicted of multiple charges, including possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of an unregistered destructive device. He pleaded guilty to these charges on March 27, 2024.

Joshua Carter, 29, of McDonough, Georgia, received a three-year prison sentence followed by two years of supervised release from Judge Ross on June 5, 2024. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make false statements to a federally licensed firearms dealer on January 23, 2024.

Jamal Plunkett, 36, of Snellville, Georgia, was sentenced to four years and three months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones on October 10, 2023. Plunkett pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen firearm on May 19, 2023.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case with assistance from the DeKalb County Police Department and Gainesville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aiming to reduce violent crime and gun violence. The Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy on May 26, 2021, strengthening PSN principles such as fostering community trust, supporting violence prevention organizations, and setting strategic enforcement priorities.

IN OTHER NEWS:
SPARTA, Tenn. (WATE)  An investigation is underway after Cumberland County Sheriffs Deputies found a man dead from an apparent gunshot wound in Sparta.

The sheriffs office released that on Tuesday, August 6 at 7:06 p.m., deputies responded to a home on Yellow Cliff Creek Road for a shooting call. Inside the home, Jack Daniel Carter, 35, was found dead from an apparent gunshot wound. Cumberland County Sheriffs Investigators, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and members of the 13th Judicial District Attorneys Office responded to the scene to investigate.

Crossville woman charged with murder in friends 2021 overdose death

Carters body was taken to the Medical Examiners Office in Nashville for autopsy. CCSO said that the evidence will be analyzed by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Crime Laboratory.

This is a developing story. Download the WATE 6 News app or sign up for our email alerts for updates.

READ: More top stories on WATE.com

No further details have been released as the investigation is ongoing.

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The subdued stock price reaction suggests that Inchcape plc's (LON:INCH) strong earnings didn't offer any surprises. Investors are probably missing some underlying factors which are encouraging for the future of the company.

See our latest analysis for Inchcape

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

To properly understand Inchcape's profit results, we need to consider the UK75m expense attributed to unusual items. While deductions due to unusual items are disappointing in the first instance, there is a silver lining. We looked at thousands of listed companies and found that unusual items are very often one-off in nature. And, after all, that's exactly what the accounting terminology implies. Assuming those unusual expenses don't come up again, we'd therefore expect Inchcape to produce a higher profit next year, all else being equal.

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 Inchcape's Profit Performance

Because unusual items detracted from Inchcape's earnings over the last year, you could argue that we can expect an improved result in the current quarter. Because of this, we think Inchcape's earnings potential is at least as good as it seems, and maybe even better! Better yet, its EPS are growing strongly, which is nice to see. 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. So while earnings quality is important, it's equally important to consider the risks facing Inchcape at this point in time. While conducting our analysis, we found that Inchcape has 2 warning signs and it would be unwise to ignore these.

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Hamas' Hayya seen in key role under new leader Sinwar, sources say

By Nidal al-Mughrabi

CAIRO (Reuters) - Hamas politician Khalil al-Hayya is set to continue leading indirect negotiations with Israel for a Gaza ceasefire with guidance from the group's newly appointed leader, Yahya Sinwar, who continues to run the war effort inside the enclave, three Palestinian sources including a Hamas official said.

Hamas announced on Tuesday that it had picked Sinwar - one of the masterminds of the militant group's Oct. 7 attack on Israel - as overall leader, replacing Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran last month.

The choice of Sinwar, whom Israel has vowed to kill, is seen signalling a defiant stance by Hamas as the Gaza war grinds on, handing the leadership to a man who is widely thought to be running the war from tunnels beneath the enclave.

Experts on Palestinian politics had seen Hayya as a leading candidate to replace Haniyeh, due partly to his good ties with the group's main backer, Iran, whose support will be vital for the movement to recover after the war.

Working under the supervision of Haniyeh, Hayya has led the group's delegation in mediated talks with Israel aimed at securing a ceasefire and a deal to exchange Israelis abducted by Hamas on Oct. 7 with Palestinians in Israeli jails.

"Dr. Khail Al-Hayya is the head of the negotiation team and there is no change to this," the Hamas official said.

Another source familiar with Hamas deliberations said Hayya had enjoyed the trust of both Haniyeh and Sinwar, and saying it was expected that he would "continue to lead the indirect negotiations and be the diplomatic face of the movement".

Both Hayya and Zaher Jabarin, who leads Hamas in the West Bank from outside the Palestinian territories, "will play a bigger role in the future, also as both have good relations with Iran and Hezbollah", the source said.

The sources declined to be identified because of political sensitivities.

Hayya is Hamas' deputy leader for Gaza, though he has performed the role from outside the Palestinian territories for several years and resides in Qatar.

Sinwar has not appeared in public since the Oct. 7 attacks, but has played a key role in directing military operations and the negotiations for a prisoner-hostage swap.

The source familiar with Hamas deliberations said messages continued to be exchanged back and forth between the group's leaders abroad and Sinwar in the Gaza Strip, though these may take time to deliver.

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters that Sinwar's selection underscored the weight given by Hamas to the Gaza Strip.

"It is also a message to the (Israeli) occupation that your assassination of Haniyeh brought about counter results," he said.

Hamas-led militants last October killed 1,200 people and abducted another 250, according to Israeli tallies. The attack prompted Israel to launch its devastating Gaza offensive which has killed around 40,000 people, according to the Gaza health ministry.

(Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Leslie Adler)
Hamas has a new leader. How will that affect the war in Gaza and cease-fire efforts?

Yahya Sinwar, head of Hamas in Gaza, greets his supporters during a meeting with leaders of Palestinian factions at his office in Gaza City, Wednesday, April 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Adel Hana)

Yahya Sinwar's appointment as the top leader of Hamas formalizes a role he assumed in the early hours of Oct. 7, when the surprise attack into Israel that he helped mastermind ushered in the bloodiest chapter of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

He is seen as a hard-liner with closer ties to Hamas' armed wing than his predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in an explosion in Iran's capital last month that was widely blamed on Israel and could spark an all-out regional war.

Sinwar was already seen as having the final word on any cease-fire agreement for Gaza and the release of dozens of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas.

But he is deep in hiding inside Gaza, and mediators say it takes several days to exchange messages with him. That raises questions about how he would manage a sprawling organization with cadres across the Middle East.

Hamas has survived the killing of several top leaders across more than three decades, while maintaining a high degree of internal cohesion  and tapping Sinwar, who tops Israels most-wanted list, was a show of defiance.

But Hamas has never faced a crisis of this magnitude  and the man who engineered it is now charged with managing the fallout.

An even tougher stance toward Israel

Haniyeh was a veteran of Hamas' political wing who had once served as Palestinian prime minister and in more recent years had managed the group's affairs from his base in Qatar.

While Hamas has always championed armed struggle, Haniyeh and other exiled leaders had occasionally struck a more moderate tone, even expressing openness to a possible two-state solution, although still officially refusing to recognize Israel.

Sinwar, by contrast, spent more than two decades in Israeli prisons and told interrogators he had killed 12 suspected Palestinian collaborators, gaining a reputation for brutality among people on both sides of the conflict.

He and Mohammed Deif, the shadowy head of Hamas' armed wing who Israel claims to have killed in a recent strike, spent years building up the group's military strength and are believed to have devised the Oct. 7 attack. Militants burst into Israel that day, killing some 1,200 people and abducting around 250.

In recent negotiations, Haniyeh had played a big role in trying to convince Sinwar to accept a cease-fire proposal with Israel, said Hugh Lovatt, an expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

Sinwar has stuck to demands for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a lasting cease-fire  even as nearly 40,000 Palestinians have been killed in the ongoing war, according to local officials, and much of the territory left in ruins.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the war until Hamas is completely destroyed and all the hostages return home.

The killing of Haniyeh already brought negotiations back to the drawing board," said Lina Khatib, an expert on the conflict at Chatham House, a London-based think tank. This next chess move by Hamas makes negotiations even trickier.

Sadeq Abu Amer, head of the Palestinian Dialogue Group, a think tank based in Turkey, said that while Sinwar's elevation might appear to be a challenge to Israel, it is still possible to make a deal.

He added that Sinwar, in his new role, might take a step that will surprise everyone.

Leading from the shadows

Predicting how Sinwar will lead Hamas is difficult because of the secrecy around him.

Sinwar has not been seen since the start of the war and even before Oct. 7 made only rare public appearances. He is likely in hiding deep inside Hamas' tunnel network and largely cut off from the outside world.

While he can be expected to set overall policy and make the final decision on any cease-fire deal, Hamas' day-to-day operations in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and elsewhere are likely to be managed by its exiled leaders in Qatar, Lebanon, Turkey and Iran.

There are issues that he can make a decision on and there are issues and matters that his deputies and the rest of the members of the political bureau can do, said Hani al-Masri, a veteran Palestinian analyst who has met most of Hamas leaders over the years, including Haniyeh and Sinwar.

Hamas has a long history of persevering after the killing of its top leaders  including its founder and spiritual leader, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, who was killed in an airstrike in 2004.

But it has never faced a campaign of targeted killings on this scale.

Israel says it has killed scores of Hamas commanders in Gaza, including Deif, whose death Hamas has neither confirmed nor denied. Another top Hamas leader, Saleh Arouri, was killed in an apparent Israeli airstrike in Beirut in January. The string of targeted killings has likely led other Hamas leaders to limit their movements and contacts.

That could eventually degrade the organization, even as it enjoys the support of many  but not most  Palestinians.

Israels elimination of senior Hamas leaders who cannot easily be replaced has likely had a qualitative impact on the movement," Lovatt said. More fundamentally, though, the killing of senior figures such as Arouri and Haniyeh appears to have tipped the movement in a more hard-line direction.

___

Associated Press writers Jack Jeffery in Ramallah, West Bank, and Kareem Chehayeb, Sarah El Deeb and Abby Sewell in Beirut contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
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, 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.

Blinken says ceasefire in Gaza depends on al-Sinwar

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip ultimately depends on al-Sinwar.

"It is truly up to him to determine whether to move forward with a ceasefire," Blinken said.

Blinken said that al-Sinwar has been the "primary decider" on a ceasefire deal before his appointment as successor to the late Hamas leader Haniyeh.

"This only underscores the fact that it is really on him to decide whether to move forward with a ceasefire."

Blinken said the negotiations on a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages had reached a "decisive moment."

"We believe strongly that they should come across the finish line very, very soon," he said.

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.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The terror group Hamas has a new leader, and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he has the power to make a ceasefire deal happen.

Yahya Sinwar is replacing the leader who the group says was killed in Iran last month by an Israeli airstrike.

He continues to be the person that calls the shots for Hamas, said Matthew Miller, a U.S. State Department spokesperson.

Miller said Sinwars new role doesnt really change anything. He has been the terror groups top leader in Gaza and masterminded the Oct. 7th attacks in Israel.

Sinwar is a brutal terrorist with blood on his hands, including the blood of American citizens, Miller said.

However, Miller said Sinwar is the key to getting a ceasefire and hostage agreement.

We are in the final stages hopefully of a ceasefire deal, he said.

Thats the most optimistic U.S. officials have been of the deal, but they also warn escalation in the region could derail any progress.

No party should take any steps to escalate this conflict, Miller said.

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified, following Israels assassinations of top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah, which are proxies of Iran.

Not going to speak for what Iran will or will not do, said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

White House officials said Wednesday the U.S. and its allies are engaged in intensive diplomatic efforts to try to avoid an all-out regional war.

Urge de-escalation, Jean-Pierre said. Thats what we want to see.

The U.S. recently increased its own military presence in the region, including moving a fighter jet squadron and maintaining an aircraft carrier there.

Gaza continues to face a severe humanitarian crisis as the war limits access to critical medical supplies, food and water. The Health Ministry said the death toll there is nearly 40,000, but it doesnt distinguish between military and civilian deaths.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
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Hamas named its new leader as Yahya Sinwar  the architect of the Oct. 7 attack on Israel  following last weeks assassination of its political chief.

Sinwar is the militant groups only major figure who has remained out of Israels reach after the recent killings of several high-profile leaders. The 61-year-old is believed to be hiding in Gaza and reportedly evades Israeli detection by using notes and oral messages to communicate with Hamas members.

Sinwar has always been more reluctant to agree to a ceasefire in Gaza than other leaders, experts said. One Palestinian activist told The New Yorkers David Remnick: Sinwar is in every home in Palestine. He is the most important Palestinian in the world.
(Bloomberg) -- Almost six years ago, Yahya Sinwar, whos just been named the political leader of Hamas, scrawled a note on a document that he knew Egyptian intermediaries would hand to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

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Take a calculated risk on a cease-fire, Sinwar wrote in Hebrew, according to former National Security Adviser Meir Ben-Shabbat.

Not long before, when he was the new Hamas chief for Gaza, Sinwar had said something similar to an Italian journalist: I dont want war anymore. I want a cease-fire. His ambition for the impoverished Palestinian coastal strip? We can be like Singapore, like Dubai.

For the past 10 months, since Hamas long-planned and bloody Oct. 7 assault, the Israeli security establishment and others have looked back on his words as part of an effort to create the illusion that Hamas, considered a terrorist group by the US and European Union, was limiting its embrace of violence to focus on governance.

Now, Sinwar has taken charge of a portfolio that includes cease-fire negotiations after the assassination last week in Tehran of Ismail Haniyeh, the previous Hamas political chief, solidifying control of the group by its fearsome military leader.

Sinwars election effectively marks the subordination of Hamas political wing in its entirety to Sinwar, Arab affairs commentator Avi Issacharoff wrote in the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper on Wednesday.

Israeli officials have said that Sinwar was running cease-fire negotiations behind the scenes all along, a notion seconded by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who said that hes been the primary decider. Others say Sinwar oversaw the talks at first but hes now unable to communicate while hiding in Gaza and was given the political title as an act of symbolism, to tell Israel and the world that hes the essence of the movement.

Before the deadly Hamas attack on Oct. 7, Israeli officials say, the sense of complacency about the groups intentions created by Sinwar led the military to reduce its surveillance of the Gaza border fence, relying on electronic sensors, and to transfer troops to guard settlements in the West Bank. Ambitious intelligence officers were focused on Iran; Hamas was considered deterred.

Today, with much of Gaza reduced to rubble and some 40,000 people killed in the process, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, Sinwar is viewed not only as one of the assaults masterminds but as the very symbol of Palestinian armed struggle. Hes the top target for assassination, assumed to be hiding deep in a Gaza tunnel, like a little Hitler in a bunker, as Netanyahu has often put it.

Sinwars new title wont excuse him from the fact that he is a murderer who was part of the planning and execution of everything that happened on Oct. 7, Herzi Halevi, the Israel Defense Forces chief of the general staff, said Wednesday at an Israel Air Force base. The change in his title not only wont prevent us from pursuing him, it gives us even more incentive to find him and attack him  and they can appoint a new political leader once again.

The Oct. 7 attack, in which Hamas killed 1,200 and abducted 250, and the subsequent war in Gaza are remaking regional  even global  politics, raising a risk of broader war. This is especially true in the wake of the recent assassinations of Haniyeh and a Hezbollah leader in Beirut. Israel is bracing for an Iranian response.

Still, its notable that the dynamic that gave rise to the current situation is one of intimate enemies. Sinwar and the Israelis have been watching and analyzing one another for decades.

Born in a poor neighborhood of the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis, Sinwar, 61, helped found Hamas military wing in the late 1980s as the first Palestinian uprising was underway. He later took on the task of rooting out Palestinians collaborating with Israel, and was found guilty by an Israeli court of killing at least five of them. Israeli military authorities, at the time still operating inside Gaza, sentenced him to life in prison in 1989.

Behind bars, Sinwar achieved deep fluency in Hebrew and knowledge of Israeli society, regularly reading newspapers along with the biographies of key Israeli figures. He also became the uncontested leader of Hamas prisoners. According to Israeli officials and a former Hamas activist, he continued to have collaborators killed while in prison.

Israeli officials describe him as a cold-blooded, magnetic leader; a compact, sinewy man whose close-cropped hair and beard have by now turned mostly white.

In the early 2000s, while in prison, Sinwar began experiencing headaches and blurred vision. He was taken to the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba where a surgeon removed a brain tumor, saving his life.

Betty Lahat, the prison systems intelligence chief at the time, said in a TV documentary that she tried to use that event to recruit him as an agent.

I said, the state of Israel saved your life, she said. I thought I could turn him into one of ours, but he wasnt interested. He kept talking about the day he would be released. I told him youre never getting out. He said theres a date: God knows it.

There was a date. It was Oct. 18, 2011, when Israel exchanged more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners for an Israeli soldier held by Hamas, Gilad Shalit. Among those released was the man who drew up the list  Sinwar.

Because hed killed fellow Palestinians and not Israelis, and was no longer young, some Israeli officials didnt object to his being on the list. Others did.

There was talk of how he was not a threat, Michael Milshtein, former head of Palestinian research in military intelligence, recalled last year. He doesnt want to return to dangerous activity, hes forgotten how to plan a terror attack. I tried to tell them they were wrong. Hamas is a mission for your whole life. It took him only a week to return to his connections and activities. Today, Hamas in Gaza is Sinwar.

He rejoined Hamas at a senior level and by 2017 had been elected the groups leader for all of Gaza, replacing Haniyeh, who was sent to Qatar.

After the October attack, a senior Hamas official, Ali Baraka, told the Russian state channel RT that the group had prepared for Oct. 7 for two years while fooling Israel into thinking it was busy governing Gaza. Planning encompassed not only the attack, but also how Hamas would rule in its aftermath.

That was the subject of a 2021 conference in Gaza entitled The Promise of the End of Days, where Sinwar delivered the keynote address. A summary document revealed it to have dealt with the topic of what to do with Israeli experts once the country was defeated: Keep the Jewish scientists and experts in the fields of medicine, engineering, technology, civil and military industry for a while and do not let them leave with their knowledge and experience.

While Hamas officials never spoke directly to Israeli authorities, Sinwar worked through intermediaries to persuade Israel of his groups benign intentions. As part of these efforts, he collaborated with the Palestinian Authority to negotiate Israeli work permits for some 18,000 Gazans, allowing them to work as day laborers within Israel.

It was some of these workers who Israeli security officials say drew maps of the communities and made lists of local families to orient the Hamas militants before Oct. 7.

Several released Israeli hostages say that when they were first taken to Gaza, Sinwar came to see them, speaking to them in Hebrew. Israeli military officials say theyve come close to capturing or killing him a couple of times in the war. So far, he has escaped.

Some 70 kilometers (40 miles) north of Gaza, a poster hangs on the wall of the office of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv. It features dozens of Hamas commanders with lines drawn across the faces of those killed by Israel. The poster has been filling with marks.

Sinwar, unmarked, is at the top.

--With assistance from Alisa Odenheimer.

(Updated with Israeli military chiefs comment in 10th paragraph)

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Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (C) and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian with other officials perform the funeral prayer for Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and his bodyguard. Iranian Supreme Leader's Office/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

The killing of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh will only intensify the fight for justice for the Palestinians, a major bloc of Muslim-majority countries said on Wednesday.

Foreign Ministers of member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) gathered for an open-ended extraordinary meeting to discuss "the continued crimes of the Israeli occupation against the Palestinian people" following the killing of Haniyeh.

"The assassination of Sheikh Ismail Haniyeh will not quell the Palestinian cause, rather it amplifies it underscoring the urgency for justice and human rights for the Palestinian people," Gambia's Foreign Minister Mamadou Tangara said kicking off the meeting.

"Let it be known that such actions will not deter but rather strengthen the resolve of those who seek peace and justice," he told his counterparts gathered in the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah.

Haniyeh was killed last week in a targeted attack blamed on Israel as he visited Tehran for the inauguration of Iran's new president.

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.

Tangara warned that "the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nation states are fundamental principles underpinning the international order," and violating such principles would lead to "destabilization, conflict, injustice, crimes against humanity and human suffering."

In his address, Tangara urged for "durable peace that address the root causes of the conflict."

"It is crucial for the global community to come together to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in need and to work towards a sustainable political solution that promote peace and security for all people in the region," he said.

He also warned that the continued war on Gaza could lead to further polarization in the Middle East, including complicating peace efforts and potentially drawing in larger powers.

The Jeddah-based OIC is an association of 57 mostly Muslim-majority states, with Gambia currently acting as the rotating chairman.
Harris choosing Walz for VP made one thing clear: Neither she nor Trump wants unity

Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has picked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her vice presidential nominee, adding the last piece to this year's election puzzle.

Walz is a progressive governor from a solidly blue state. He is radically pro-abortion access, has called for an assault weapons ban and is weak on illegal immigration. He is a perfect candidate for Harris to appeal to her progressive base and for Republicans to go after.

However, the choice reveals one thing about this election: Harris and Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump have little interest in expanding their appeal to voters put off by their candidacy.

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have chosen partisanship

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, announced as running mate for Democratic vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris, reacts during a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Aug. 6, 2024.

Walz's appeal is broadly the same as Harris' as he shares the same progressive ideology. Whatever people think of Harris politically is how they will view Walz, offering little room for this ticket to grow past its base.

Funny enough, I had a similar opinion about Sen. JD Vance of Ohio when Trump chose him as his successor. In the face of principled GOP objections to Trump, MAGA decided to stick to what it knows and ignore the rest of us.

As much as the parties want to point out they are different from each other, they certainly are the same when it comes to how they view this election: It's divisive.

With Walz as VP pick, Harris doubles down on her far-left plans. Republicans must use this.

It seems that both Trump and Harris view this election as one that will be determined by how much of their own party base they can rally to get out and vote, not by how broad an appeal they can generate.

While the Trump campaign has softened stances on some policy issues, most notably abortion, to expand the party base, his choice of Vance revealed that he had no interest in drawing votes from the anti-Trump wing of the Republican Party.

The same goes for Harris in her choice of Walz. While Harris had ample opportunity to choose a vice presidential candidate who could bridge her appeal to moderates who are not fans of her or Trump, she instead chose a progressive extremist closely aligned with her politically.

Both parties are bound to see vicious attack ads on their choice for running mate from their rivals, but the choices themselves have already made these a nonfactor. The only people who are truly going to be swayed on such avenues of attack are those who are undecided, a small population that both parties have made clear they have no interest in swaying.

Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store.

Choosing Walz, Vance makes voting harder for moderates

For me, a conservative who is not voting for Trump, there isnt a VP choice out there that could compel me to vote for Harris. However, moderates would have been attracted to somebody like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who enjoys high approval ratings even in that hotly contested state.

Both sides are simply continuing the trend of increasingly polarized presidential elections.

Where do Gen Z conservatives go? Young Republicans against Trump are left without a political home. MAGA can't be it.

The extreme differences between the two offer little ground for agreement between supporters of both sides. In a time of escalating political violence, fueling the fires of polarization does little to assure Americans that their leaders have any interest in cooling tensions. Neither party is interested in unifying the country, and the VP race is the perfect example of that apathy toward the most important task at hand.

Voters have little choice but to abstain from voting if they are dissatisfied with the choices presented. The "lesser of two evils" choices will only continue if people continue to allow them.

American politics are extremely polarized, which is impacting how we interact with each other. Neither Democrats nor Republicans seem all that concerned about bridging such divides, however. Now, voters have to decide.

Dace Potas is an opinion columnist for USA TODAY and a graduate of DePaul University with a degree in political science.

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: Tim Walz pick shows Harris, Trump aren't so different after all
Vice President Kamala Harris spent this past weekend interviewing the top contenders on her VP shortlist, meeting in person at her Washington, D.C. home with Govs. Tim Walz and Josh Shapiro, and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly.

It was just 16 days ago that President Joe Biden dropped out of the race, and Harris and her vetting team, led by former Attorney General Eric Holder, were operating in a truncated time frame. The vetting team initially cast a wide net, with more than a dozen people in consideration. That list quickly got shorter, with nine people being formally asked to submit vetting materials.

It's a process that is extensive and one that would typically take months  but Holder, along with his vetting team led by former White House counsel Dana Remus, campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon, campaign chief of staff Sheila Nix, and Harris's brother-in-law Tony West  wrapped up their work on Friday, turning it over to Harris for a final decision.

Harris met with her vetting team on Saturday and was provided with extensive briefings on each candidate under consideration. She would then interview her top choices.

PHOTO: Kamala Harris And Running Mate Tim Walz Make First Appearance Together In Philadelphia (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

MORE: 'We are the underdogs': Harris introduces her running mate Tim Walz to fired-up Philadelphia crowd

Following Harris's interview with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, there was a sense among Shapiro's team that the meeting did not go as well as it could have, sources familiar with the matter tell ABC News. Later Sunday, after the interview, Shapiro placed a phone call to Harris' team, indicating he had reservations about leaving his job as governor, sources said.

Walz, on the other hand, had an indication Monday evening that he would be chosen as Harris' running mate, sources familiar with the matter said.

MORE: Who is Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris' VP pick?

Harris came to her decision on Monday and told a small group of staff, sources said. She did not place a phone call to Walz until Tuesday morning.

How Kamala Harris decided on her running mate, Tim Walz originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Facing the need to win battleground Pennsylvania, Vice President Kamala Harris is swearing off any prior assertion that she opposed fracking, but that hasnt stopped Republican Donald Trump from wielding her now-abandoned position to win over voters in a state where the natural gas industry means jobs.

Last week, in his first appearance in Pennsylvania since Harris became the Democrats presumptive nominee, Trump repeatedly warned that Harris would ban fracking  a position she held as a presidential primary candidate in 2019  and devastate the economy in the nations No. 2 natural gas state.

Shes against fracking, shes against oil drilling, she wants everybody to have one electric car and share it with the neighbors, Trump told rallygoers at a Harrisburg rally on Wednesday, which was also his first appearance in the state since he was wounded in a July 13 assassination attempt in Butler County. Harris has stated repeatedly that she supports, quote, banning fracking. Ill ban fracking, Ill ban it on my first day.

Harris campaign, in a statement, insisted she would not ban fracking, and called Trumps claims an attempt to distract from his own plans to enrich oil and gas executives at the expense of the middle class.

Still, Trump criticized Harris support as a senator and candidate in 2020s presidential primary for a Democratic resolution to create a Green New Deal, a sweeping progressive effort to shift the country toward renewable energy. Trump called the platform  never fully translated into policy proposals  a $100 trillion green new scam designed to abolish the oil, coal and natural gas industry entirely.

While Harris considers choosing popular Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as a finalist to be her running mate on the Democratic ticket, Trump has made it clear that he wont concede the swing state, part of the decisive blue wall along with Michigan and Wisconsin. Trump repeatedly has said his administration would drill baby drill and dismissed Harris change of position with these words of caution: Remember, a politician always goes back to what their original thought was.

Fracking is nearly always on the ballot in Pennsylvania. Formally named hydraulic fracturing, it has made the United States an oil and gas superpower over the past decade, along with horizontal drilling.

Republicans routinely attack Democrats over fracking to drive a wedge into the partys fragile alliance between its left wing, which is hostile to fossil fuels, and its bedrock building trade union base, whose workers are building an expanding network of gas pipelines, power plants and processing facilities in Pennsylvania.

Republicans have used similar attacks in the past two election cycles, both unsuccessfully, against Joe Biden in 2020s presidential race and against Sen. John Fetterman in 2022.

To attack Biden in 2020, Republicans seized on a series of confusing statements  such as remarks on the oil industry from a debate just a couple weeks before the election  to claim he intended to ban or end national gas extraction. That was not Bidens official position, and if he intended to restrain the extraction method, it was hard to find evidence of it in energy production data during his first three years in office.

Biden has sought to slow down leasing on federal lands and emphasize conservation as part of a large-scale effort to slow global warming. But U.S. natural gas production and crude oil production have hit record monthly highs in the past year, according to federal energy statistics. The same thing has happened with gas production in Pennsylvania, which also has posted record monthly highs during Bidens time in office.

Harris has backed Bidens plan to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. But that plan never included a ban on fracking, and Biden has said he viewed those energy sources as necessary during the transition.

Trump, meanwhile, has heavily courted the gas industry in Pennsylvania and has ridiculed the science behind increasingly urgent warnings for immediate action to stave off the worst of climate damage by cutting fossil fuel emissions.

Oil and gas producers have opposed a range of energy policies under Biden, including tougher regulations on tailpipe emissions and vehicle fuel economy that they see as a de facto electric vehicle mandate, clamping down on leases on federal lands and delaying liquefied natural gas projects.

Energy companies want to know whether Harris will continue down those roads.

Its safe to say that we and a lot of other folks are eager to hear from the vice president, said Dustin Meyer, a senior vice president at the American Petroleum Institute.

Attacking Harris over fracking is reminiscent of Republican efforts to turn union workers against Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016. In tenor and scale, Trumps overtures to the industry have echoed the unfulfilled promises he made to save the coal industry during his first campaign.

Clinton was hammered for saying were going to put a lot of coal miners and coal companies out of business when describing her climate plan, a comment that was used to suggest she had declared war on coal.

Democrats in Pennsylvania  such as Fetterman, Shapiro and U.S. Sen. Bob Casey  have successfully run on getting tough on fracking through stronger regulation. They shun talk of a fracking ban, although they may not necessarily support every aspect of Bidens energy policy if unions oppose it.

When Biden dropped his candidacy, the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters, whose members work on pipelines and in power plants, quickly endorsed Harris in a unanimous vote.

Mark McManus, the unions general president, pointedly noted that Harris did have a previous position in a previous role in a different state, but said she has been clear about her new position on fracking.

And its a good position for the United Association, McManus said. Shes a nationwide candidate right now.

McManus described Harris energy approach as being joined at the hip with Biden, a Pennsylvania native the union endorsed twice in his races against Trump, including this years campaign. McManus embraced what he described as an all of the above energy approach.

Still, in a heavily populated and heavily contested state where Trump won by just over 44,000 votes in 2016 and Biden won by just over 81,000, any marginal change is significant, campaign strategists and pollsters say.

Christopher Borick, director of the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion in Allentown, said fracking simply wont be a decisive factor for most Pennsylvania voters because opinions on it are highly divided in the state.

The gas industry has flushed money into some local economies. But it has also inspired a backlash in other communities, most notably in Philadelphias suburbs.

The sweet spot for statewide candidates  such as Casey, Shapiro and Fetterman  has been not calling for a ban, but calling for tight regulation, clear disclosure about the process and limits on where it can be done, Borick said.

Its been successful for all of them, Borick said, and thats where you see Harris going now.

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Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris is welcomed by Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, before she delivers remarks at a campaign event, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Eau Claire, Wisc. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)

ROMULUS, Mich. (AP)  Vice President Kamala Harris declared herself and her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, joyful warriors" against Donald Trump on Wednesday as they spent their first full day campaigning together across the Midwest. They got an unusual glimpse of how hotly contested the region would be when they overlapped on a Wisconsin tarmac with Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance.

The Democrats visited Wisconsin and Michigan, hoping to shore up support among the younger, diverse, labor-friendly voters who were instrumental in helping President Joe Biden win the 2020 election.

Harris told the day's first rally in Eau Claire, "As Tim Walz likes to point out, we are joyful warriors. Contributing to that feeling, the Harris campaign said it had raised $36 million in the first 24 hours after she announced Walz as her running mate.

The vice president said the pair looks at the future with optimism, unlike Trump, the former president and Republican White House nominee, whom she accused of being stuck in the past and preferring a confrontational style of politics  even as she criticized her opponent herself.

Someone who suggests we should terminate the Constitution of the United States should never again have the chance to sit behind the seal of the United States," Harris said, her voice rising.

Dan Miller, from Pelican Lake, Wisconsin, who was among 12,000-plus Eau Claire rally attendees, said Biden has been an incredible president, but he just isnt the same messenger.

"And sometimes you need a better messenger, Miller said. And thats Kamala.

Later, at an evening event in an airport hangar outside Detroit where the campaign announced a crowd of 15,000, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer  herself frequently mentioned as a future presidential candidate  declared, We need a strong woman in the White House and its about damn time.

This elections going to be a fight, Harris told the same event. "We like a good fight.

The swing was especially important for Harris since Biden's winning coalition from four years ago has shown signs of fraying over the summer  particularly in Michigan, which has emerged as a focal point of Democratic divisions over Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

With the president now out of the race, leaders of the Arab American community and key unions say they are encouraged by Harris' running mate choice. Walzs addition to the ticket has soothed some tensions, signaling to some leaders that Harris had heard concerns about another leading contender for the vice presidential slot, Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, who they felt had gone too far in his support for Israel.

The party is recognizing that theres a coalition they have to rebuild, said Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of the heavily Arab American community of Dearborn, Michigan. Picking Walz is another sign of good faith.

Lingering dissensions were nonetheless on display during Harris Michigan speech, when she was interrupted by protesters opposing Israel's fighting with Hamas. At first, Harris said to those trying to disrupt her, I am here because I believe in democracy and everybodys voice matters.

That was a response similar to Biden's, who often said when interrupted at his rallies that protesters should be allowed to speak before being removed by security. Harris, however, then quickly pivoted to a tougher tack, continuing, But I am speaking now. That sparked cheers from most of the audience.

If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that, the vice president continued over the protesters. Otherwise, Im speaking.

Those demonstrating were eventually led away, but not before a tense confrontation between Harris supporters and protesters who screamed at one another.

Trump, meanwhile, has emphasized appealing to Midwestern voters with his choice of Vance, an Ohio senator, as his running mate. Vance bracketed the Harris-Walz ticket with Michigan and Wisconsin appearances of his own Wednesday.

He overlapped enough that while Harris was still greeting a group of Girl Scouts who came to see her arrive at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Wisconsin, Vances campaign plane landed nearby and was taxiing in the distance. Harris posed for a group picture with the girls around the same time Vance was deplaning, and he began walking over to Air Force Two, trailed by his security detail.

The vice president eventually climbed into her motorcade, and it pulled away before they could interact. Still, that the pair came so close to doing so was unusual given the carefully scripted nature of campaign schedules.

I just wanted to check out my future plane, Vance later told reporters, meaning that hed travel on Air Force Two should he and Trump be elected in November. He also criticized Harris for not holding press conferences since she became a presidential candidate.

If those people want to call me weird I call it a badge of honor, Vance said, responding to a moniker Walz used to describe him that made the Minnesota governor notable online in the days before Harris tapped him as her running mate.

Walz had some critical words for Vance in both Wisconsin and Michigan but trained most of his sharpest words on Trump, saying the former president mocks our laws, he sows chaos and division amongst the people and thats to say nothing of the job he did as president.

Walz also stressed that he and Harris are promoting neighborliness and common community, even suggesting that his state's football fans were happy for Detroit's long-underperforming NFL team when it nearly made the most recent Super Bowl: Vikings fans are proud of the Lions.

The momentum could be pivotal in Detroit, which is nearly 80% Black, where leaders for months had warned administration officials that voter apathy could cost them in a city that's typically a stronghold for their party.

Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the NAACP Detroit branch, said the excitement in the city now is mind-blowing. He likened it to Barack Obama's first presidential run in 2008, when voters waited in long lines to help elect the nation's first Black president.

Some Democratic leaders in Michigan had grown concerned that choosing the wrong running mate could slow that momentum, however, and fracture a coalition that has only recently started to unify.

Arab American leaders, who hold significant influence in Michigan due to a large presence in metro Detroit, had been vocal in their opposition to Shapiro due to his past comments regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Those leaders specifically pointed to a comment he made earlier this year regarding protests on university campuses, which they felt unfairly compared the actions of student protesters to those of white supremacists. Shapiro, who is Jewish, has criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while remaining a staunch supporter of Israel.

Osama Siblani, the publisher of the Dearborn-based Arab American News and a prominent leader in Michigans large Muslim community, was among those who met with White House adviser Tom Perez in Michigan last week. Perez has maintained contact with some Dearborn leaders since he and other top officials traveled there with Biden to mend ties with the community.

Siblani said he met with Perez for over an hour on July 29 and told him that if Harris chose Shapiro, it would shut down future conversations.

Not picking Shapiro is a very good step. It cracks the door open a little more for us, Siblani said.

___

Cappelletti reported from Michigan. Associated Press writers Mark Vancleave, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Scott Bauer in Madison, Wisconsin, Tom Krisher in Detroit, Isabella Volmert in Lansing, Michigan, and Will Weissert in Washington contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Wednesday marks the start of several swing state visits by both presidential candidates.

The new Harris-Walz ticket and Trump-Vance team are both in Wisconsin and Michigan to rally voters.

The campaigns look like theyre following each other all this week.

It emphasizes how important these Midwest battleground states will be this November.

Vice President Kamala Harris landed in Wisconsin this afternoon with Republican VP candidate JD Vance not far behind.

Had a little bit of fun. I dont think the Vice President waved at me, said Vance.

The dueling campaigns are competing for votes in battleground states needed to win the White House.

Wisconsin, this has been a big week, said Harris.

The Harris-Walz ticket is in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Detroit, Michigan making their pitch to voters.

I couldnt be prouder to be on this ticket, said Walz.

The Trump-Vance team is selling a different message in the same states.

The contrast could not be more clear, said Vance.

While in Michigan, Senator Vance accused Minnesota Governor Tim Walz of dodging military service.

I think its shameful to prepare your unit to go to Iraq to make a promise that youre going to follow through and then to drop out right before you actually have to go, said Vance.

Walz has previously said he retired to run for Congress.

While in Wisconsin, Walz went after Vance.

Trumps running mate shares those same dangerous and backward beliefs, said Walz.

Support from voters in the so-called blue wall states will be crucial this election.

Really the key for Democrats to retain the White House, said George Washington University professor Todd Belt.

George Washington University professor Todd Belt says thats why were seeing the campaigns mirror each other this week.

Counterprogramming, to make sure the cameras are not just trained on one person who might be in the area, but both sides are there, said Belt.

Both Vance and Walz have said they will debate each other. However, that hasnt been scheduled yet.

The battleground state blitz continues this week with Harris-Walz in Arizona and Nevada.

Both campaigns were scheduled to be in North Carolina, but those events are postponed because of Tropical Storm Debby.

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(Bloomberg) -- Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz has connections to China dating back decades that could help inform Kamala Harriss approach to the worlds second-biggest economy, but may also spell trouble with leaders in Beijing and Republicans back home.

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The little-known Minnesota governor taught English in Chinas southern Guangdong province in 1989 and 1990, making him the first person on a presidential ticket to have that kind of experience living in the country since George H. W. Bush, who served as US ambassador in Beijing in the 1970s. Walz has often spoken affectionately about Chinas people.

If they had the proper leadership, there are no limits on what they could accomplish, he told a local newspaper after returning from China in 1990. They are such kind, generous, capable people.

Walz got married on the fifth anniversary of the deadly 1989 Tiananmen Square military crackdown, with his wife Gwen telling a local newspaper he wanted to have a date hell always remember. Hes also posted on social media that he had a life-changing lunch with the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader exiled by China.

His interest in the country has also extended to policy-making, with Walz cosponsoring numerous pieces of legislation in the US House, including the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2017.

Walz was the only House Democrat willing to support the bill, said Jeffrey Ngo, a former youth activist from Hong Kong, adding he knocked on every door to seek backing for it. Ngo said he met Walz in 2016 along with fellow democracy advocate Joshua Wong and was impressed by the congressmans knowledge of Hong Kong and China issues.

This guy really knew his stuff, said Ngo, now a research fellow at US-based advocacy group Hong Kong Democracy Council. Hes rare among members of congress because hes actually been to China so many times.

Walz also cosponsored numerous resolutions, including those condemning Chinas censorship of the killings in Tiananmen Square in 1989, and ones expressing concern about the treatment of Falun Gong practitioners.

With Walz appearing prominently on the national political scene for the first time on Tuesday, many on social media began poring over a long record of comments on China, some of them decades old.

I dont fall into the category that China necessarily needs to be an adversarial relationship, Walz said in a video interview posted in 2016 that focused mainly on agriculture that is now being reposted on X. I totally disagree, and I think we need to stand firm, on what theyre doing in the South China Sea. But theres many areas of cooperation that we can work on.

At the same time, his views on China have tracked a familiar evolution from hope that an economic opening up would lead to greater political freedoms to frustration about what hes called Chinas worsening human-rights record. His positions appear largely in sync with the Biden administration approach to China, which aims to compete with Beijing in military and economic spheres, and cooperate where possible on climate or narcotics trafficking.

I think the idea was, with a free market economy, wed see a more opening of the Chinese grip on  on social life and on human rights, Walz said in a congressional hearing in 2016. That simply has not occurred.

Walzs stance toward China  and his past meeting with the Dalai Lama  may open him to criticism from Beijing. But a Chinese official, who asked not to be identified, said the choice of Walz is unlikely to impact US policy as American politicians are unified in their hardline views on China. In Beijings view, every candidate believes untrue and harmful things about China, the official said.

On the other hand, some of the governors more nuanced takes on the country from his trips could leave him open to Republican attacks during a tight race for the White House at a time when the China relationship is much more confrontational.

While China appears to be a personal issue for Walz, thats only good to a point and doesnt reflect the zero-sum competition between the US and China, said Michael Sobolik, a senior fellow at the American Foreign Policy Council and author of Countering Chinas Great Game: A Strategy for American Dominance.

The Chinese people arent Americans enemies, and Walz understands that basic reality  on the other hand, Walz seems overly optimistic, almost Pollyannish, about Washingtons struggle with the Chinese Communist Party, Sobolik said. Like President Biden and Vice President Harris, Walz seems to reject a cold war framing for US-China relations. Thats a bad thing.

Spokespeople for Walz didnt immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.

I lived in China, Ive been there about 30 times, Walz said back in 2016. But if someone tells you theyre an expert on China theyre probably not telling you the truth, because its a complex country.

--With assistance from Peter Martin and Alan Wong.

(Updates with comments from Hong Kong activist from 5th paragraph)

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(Bloomberg) -- Vice President Kamala Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, took their campaign to crucial Midwest swing states to sell voters on their economic message  an effort Donald Trumps running mate, JD Vance, sought to undercut.

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The Democratic ticket held rallies in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Detroit, Michigan  part of a campaign swing covering key battleground states in a bid to seize on momentum for Harris and introduce Walz, her vice presidential pick, to voters. Highlighting the importance of those states, Trumps campaign also deployed Vance in a bid to counterprogram their opponents.

Vance started the day with an event in Michigan, speaking at a local police station in Macomb County, where he assailed Harris over the Biden administrations immigration policies and response to the US-Mexico border crisis.

He then traveled to Wisconsin, landing at a local airport where Harris plane was already on the tarmac. The Ohio senator, flanked by Secret Service agents and staff, went over to speak to reporters by Air Force Two.

Later, speaking at a manufacturing facility in Eau Claire, Vance said he went over there because I thought it might be nice to check out this plane thats gonna be mine in a few months if we all take care of business, and I think we will. And he took a jab at Harris, whom Republicans have accused of avoiding the press.

I wanted to go and say hello to the journalists who are traveling along with the Vice President, because I figured they must be lonely because Kamala Harris doesnt take any questions, he said.

Vances stunt and a press conference where he stumbled in answering questions about what made him smile and if voters would want to have a beer with him threatened to intensify concerns among some Republicans about his candidacy. Republicans have expressed worries that the Ohio senator is struggling to appeal to voters beyond Trumps dedicated base.

Im a normal guy, Vance insisted Wednesday when asked about the criticism.

Harris campaign spokesman Ammar Moussa in a post on X mocked Vance for flying around the country following the vice president.

Ummm this is getting weird, Moussa added, repeating an insult Walz has deployed against the Republican ticket.

Vance, Walz Clash

With Trump largely absent from the campaign trail this week  his next big rally is on Friday in Montana, a state that is solidly in the Republican presidential column  the spotlight has largely been on the tickets running mates: Walz and Vance.

Vance is seeking to shore up his own standing after a rocky entrance to the campaign which has seen him draw criticism for past remarks mocking people without children, in particular women. For Walz, the week is a critical opportunity to introduce himself to voters.

Walz, in just his second day on the trail, has already demonstrated he is willing to hit harder against Trump and Vance.

Donald Trump is not for you or your family. And Trumps running mate shares those same dangerous and backward, beliefs, Walz said in Wisconsin.

At a Tuesday rally in Philadelphia, Walz went after Vance with an even cruder attack. I cant wait to debate the guy, Walz said. That is if hes willing to get off the couch and show up.

Walz will be critical to Democratic hopes of reversing negative perceptions of the current administrations economic policies that have alienated many blue-collar workers. At the Wisconsin rally, he warned voters Trump would be disastrous for the US economy and their pocketbooks.

If he gets a chance to go back to the White House, it will be far worse than it was four years ago, Walz said of Trump. Raising costs for the middle class, repealing the Affordable Care Act, gutting Social Security and Medicare, the very safety nets that protect people when theyre down.

Harris Momentum

This weeks campaign blitz marks the start of a three-month sprint to Election Day. Harris entry into the race as the new Democratic standard-bearer has seen her erase Trumps lead in the polls and money advantage. An NPR/PBS News/Marist poll released Tuesday found Harris leading Trump 51% to 48% among registered voters nationally.

Harris campaign on Wednesday said it had raised $36 million in the first 24 hours after she tapped Walz.

The Wisconsin event was outdoors, with a festival atmosphere in many ways like one of Trumps signature rallies, highlighting the enthusiasm among Democrats for the new ticket.

A line of cars waited to enter the event and the large crowd was treated to a performance by indie folk icon Bon Iver, who took the stage donning a camouflage Harris-Walz cap. Harris rallies have been exuberant affairs, with musical performers and DJs to hype up already energetic crowds.

It was the first time either presidential candidate has held an outdoor rally since the failed assassination attempt against Trump in Pennsylvania last month.

For their Detroit event, Air Force Two pulled up to a hanger allowing rallygoers to watch Harris and Walz arrive. The campaign said there were 15,000 people at the event  a figure Walz said he had been told was the largest of their campaign.

Harris clashed with a protester over the administrations support for Israel in its war against Hamas in Gaza. After being interrupted twice, Harris responded, You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, Im speaking.

Also at the Detroit event was United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain, who lambasted Trump as bought and paid for by the billionaire class and derided Vance as a vulture.

While many prominent labor leaders are backing Harris, Trump has demonstrated support among rank-and-file union members.

--With assistance from Maria Paula Mijares Torres.

(Updates throughout with details on Harris rally in Michigan)

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With Harris and Walz, Democrats put abortion rights at the top of the agenda

Tim Walz signed two bills last year that have made Minnesota a refuge for people traveling to the state for abortion care.

Months before he was selected as Vice President Kamala Harris running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz toured a Planned Parenthood clinic in his state alongside Harris  the first time a sitting president or vice president had visited an abortion provider.

That visit in March put Minnesotas efforts to safeguard reproductive rights in the spotlight.

Now, Harris and Walz represent a Democratic ticket that vocally supports access to abortion and fertility treatment, during an election in which those issues are expected to be important to voters and a focus of many Democratic campaigns.

Minnesota was the first state to pass a law protecting abortion rights after the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision in 2022. The law, which Walz signed in January 2023, stipulates that local governments  cities, counties, towns, etc.  cannot regulate a persons choice to obtain an abortion or other reproductive services.

A few months later, Walz signed a second abortion-rights law  that statute prohibits the arrest of abortion providers in Minnesota and protects people who travel there to avoid another states abortion ban. According to the law, Minnesota officials do not have to turn over a patients health records in response to another states subpoena or court order.

The share of people who traveled from other states to Minnesota for abortions tripled between 2020 and 2023, according to data from the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports abortion access.

Abortion-rights advocates pointed to these actions when expressing support for Walz on Tuesday.

By choosing Gov. Walz as her running mate, Vice President Harris has put forward the most pro-reproductive freedom ticket in history, Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Action Fund, said in a statement. Gov. Walz is a longtime champion of sexual and reproductive health care and has been a fierce abortion rights champion as governor.

Minnesota, which traditionally votes for Democratic presidential candidates, has some of the most progressive abortion policies in the country. Abortion has been legal there since the Roe decision in 1974. In 1995, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that abortion rights were protected by the states constitution.

Since Roe was overturned, the state has adopted additional measures to make abortions easier to obtain. In July 2022, a district court judge struck down several requirements that hindered access, including a rule that only physicians could perform abortions and a mandatory 24-hour waiting period. Abortions are also covered by state Medicaid funds.

As governor, Walz also slashed funding for a grant program under the Minnesota Department of Health that supported so-called crisis pregnancy centers, which offer pregnant people counseling and supplies while often trying to persuade them not to get abortions. Some of these centers have been known to provide inaccurate or misleading information.

National Right to Life, the largest anti-abortion organization in the U.S., said Tuesday that Walzs move to defund crisis pregnancy centers in his state was a huge blow to families.

If elected, a Harris-Walz Administration would push for the most extreme abortion agenda policies of any administration, Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, said in a statement.

In addition to his support for abortion access, Walz has championed in vitro fertilization. Many abortion rights supporters worry that access to the fertility treatment is under threat post-Dobbs, since IVF often involves discarding embryos due to genetic abnormalities or because they are no longer needed. Some who believe in the notion of fetal personhood have opposed that practice. National Right to Life, for instance, says frozen embryos should be given to other couples rather than destroyed.

Walz told the Minneapolis Star Tribune in March that his two children were born with the help of fertility treatments, which his wife had been receiving for seven years before getting pregnant with their daughter.

In February, Walz criticized an Alabama Supreme Court ruling that said embryos created through IVF were considered children, meaning people could theoretically be sued for destroying them. The ruling prompted several IVF providers in Alabama to pause their services; they resumed once the state passed legal protections for fertility doctors and clinics.

This issue is deeply personal to our family and so many others, Walz wrote on Facebook at the time. 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.

Walz has also expressed support for a bill introduced last year in the Minnesota House of Representatives that would require Minnesota health plans that offer maternity coverage to also cover fertility treatment. He has also called for language to be added to the Minnesota abortion-rights law signed in January 2023 that would further guarantee access to IVF and other fertility treatments.

Walzs office did not respond to a request for comment. A representative for the Harris campaign said that restoring the protections that Roe afforded is the position of the ticket.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Vice President Kamala Harris has made her decision for a presidential running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

The Democratic presidential nominee introduced her pick to voters in Pennsylvania Tuesday night.

Vice President Harris and her running mate Tim Walz are now headed on a battleground state tour to try to sell their message to the country, but former president Trump and his running mate wasted no time attacking this new ticket.

Vice President Harris hit the stage in Philadelphia with Governor Walz, officially introducing him as her running mate.

We are the underdogs in this race, but we have the momentum and I know exactly what we are up against, said Harris.

Harris says it was the two-term governors experience that helped her decision.

Over those next 91 days. And every day in the White House. Ill have Vice President Harris back, said Walz.

Former president Trump calls the Harris-Walz ticket the most radical duo in U.S. history.

Tim Walz, his record is a joke, said Ohio Senator JD Vance.

Trumps running mate also rallied in Philadelphia Tuesday.

Been one of the most far-left radicals in the entire United States, said Vance.

While Walz said hes looking forward to facing off with Vance.

I cant wait to debate the guy, said Walz.

Harris and Walz travel to Wisconsin and Michigan for campaign events Wednesday.

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Vice President Harris and her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, were officially certified as the Democratic nominees for president and vice president, respectively, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) announced Tuesday.

The certification, conducted by convention Secretary Jason Rae, comes less than a day after Harris formally secured the Democratic presidential nomination in a virtual roll call vote and just hours since she announced Walz would join her on the ticket.

It is my great honor and privilege to congratulate the Democratic Partys official nominees for President and Vice President, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. A Harris-Walz ticket represents the future of the Democratic Party and our country, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison said in a statement.

It follows a nearly weeklong virtual voting period in which Harris received 99 percent of the votes of all delegates who participated. The vice president was the only candidate whose name was in contention following President Bidens withdrawal from the race last month.

Harris quickly shored up Democratic support after Biden exited the race, with a majority of delegates publicly declaring support for her by the end of her first full day of her campaign.

The DNC originally planned to have the virtual roll call ahead of the Aug. 19 convention to ensure its nominee appears on the ballot in all 50 states after Democrats were notified earlier this year that their convention date didnt meet an earlier Ohio deadline to certify the partys presidential nominee.

However, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) in June signed legislation to extend the deadline from Aug. 7 to Aug. 31.

The DNC last month confirmed it would still move forward with the virtual roll call to ensure it has a presidential nominee by Aug. 7.

Since launching her presidential bid, Harris has seen an uptick in the polls, narrowing the gap with former President Trump, and even slightly leading in some cases.

Harris and Walz appeared together on the campaign trail Tuesday night for a rally in Philadelphia.

The Harris campaign said it raised more than $20 million since announcing Walz as Harriss running mate choice.

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A lot of things happened. Here are some of the things. This is TPMs Morning Memo. Sign up for the email version.

Dems Bask In It

Day 1 of the Harris-Walz 2024 ticket was all about the visuals.

There was the carefully planned video of both sides of the offer-and-acceptance phone call between Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. There was the Walz intro video narrated by Walz himself. And of course there was the staged rollout in Philadelphia last evening where the ticket made its first public joint appearance.

But there were also the memes. So.many.Tim.Walz.memes. Turkeys meat is probs my personal fave.

Im not going to attempt to analyze all of this. Any effort to do so after a day like yesterday is doomed to be either overdone in finding real meaning in the visuals or to veer toward being a curdled spirit that refuses to get sucked into the enthusiasm. Make no mistake: There was a lot of enthusiasm among progressives.

For now, heres a taste of the Harris-Walz debut:

The Introduction

VP: Since the day I announced my candidacy, I set out to find a partner who can help build this brighter future. Pennsylvania I'm here today because I found such a leader. pic.twitter.com/ZrHwy17ytt  Acyn (@Acyn) August 6, 2024

Bringing The Dad Jokes

Walz: And I got to tell you, I can't wait to debate the guy. That is if he's willing to get off the couch and show up. pic.twitter.com/sz7qkFIFFg  Acyn (@Acyn) August 6, 2024

Watch: Tim Walzs First Speech As Running Mate

For many of us, it was the first Tim Walz speech we ever heard:

Here is the full speech by Gov. Tim Walz at the rally in Philadelphia. pic.twitter.com/BAF570F7Iz  PoliticusUSA (@politicususa) August 6, 2024

When The Headline Says It All

Politico: Tim Walz calls Viktor Orban a dictator. For JD Vance, hes a role model.

LOLOL

The trolly right-wing conspiracist Charles Johnson shared with the WaPo the texts he and JD Vance exchanged over the encrypted app Signal.

Quote Of The Day

Dems in disconcerting levels of array Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY

Meanwhile 

Donald Trump is crafting revenge fantasies  for Joe Biden:

2024 Ephemera

MO-01 : Rep. Cori Bush lost to challenger Wesley Bell in a Democratic primary heavily influenced by the $9 million AIPAC poured into the race on Bells behalf.

If Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) wins the vice presidency, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan would become the countrys first Native American woman governor.

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee is launching its first round TV ads for the fall campaign, targeting GOP Senate candidates Kari Lake in Arizona, Eric Hovde in Wisconsin, Dave McCormick in Pennsylvania and Mike Rogers in Michigan.

Dont Hold Back

John Ganz: These People are Nazis

First Guilty Plea In Arizona Fake Electors Case

Arizona Republican Lorraine Pellegrino, a fake Trump elector, pleaded guilty to a single charge of filing a false instrument  in this case, the fraudulent Electoral College certificate. She agreed to a sentence of three years of probation but no jail time.



The FBI executed a search warrant Friday on the phone of Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) as part of an ongoing campaign finance investigation.

Great Question

Brian Beutler, on the bombshell WaPo report that Trump DOJ deep-sixed an investigation into the whether Egypt sent Donald Trump $10 million after he won in 2016: Why wouldnt Senate Democrats launch an immediate investigation of both the crime and coverup?

International Murder-For-Hire Plot

A 46-year-old Pakistani man with alleged ties to the Iranian government was arrested in a sting operation last month by the FBI and charged in Brooklyn with allegedly trying to hire hitmen to carry out political assassinations in the United States in late August or early September. The purported hitmen were actually undercover law enforcement officers.

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On August 5, 2024, Justin Leong, President of Asia Latin America at ResMed Inc (NYSE:RMD), executed a sale of 48,000 shares of the company. The transaction was documented in a recent SEC Filing. Following this sale, the insider now owns 18,741 shares of ResMed Inc.

ResMed Inc is a global manufacturer of cloud-connected medical devices and software solutions that manage sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other chronic diseases. The company operates primarily in the United States, but has a significant presence in other international markets, including Asia and Latin America where Justin Leong oversees operations.

Over the past year, the insider has sold a total of 48,000 shares and has not purchased any shares. This recent transaction is part of a broader trend within ResMed Inc, where there have been 22 insider sells and no insider buys over the past year.

Shares of ResMed Inc were trading at $217.07 on the day of the transaction. The company has a market cap of approximately $32.15 billion. The price-earnings ratio of the stock stands at 31.58, which is above the industry median of 27.

According to the GF Value, the intrinsic value of ResMed Inc is estimated at $274.50 per share, suggesting that the stock is Modestly Undervalued with a price-to-GF-Value ratio of 0.79.

Insider Sale: President of Asia Latin America at ResMed Inc (RMD) Sells 48,000 Shares

Insider Sale: President of Asia Latin America at ResMed Inc (RMD) Sells 48,000 Shares

This insider sale could be of interest to investors tracking insider behaviors as an indicator of company performance and valuation perspectives. The transaction details and the company's valuation metrics provide a snapshot of ResMed Inc's current financial position and market perception.

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.


WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  Last week Alta Care Group took over as the new Head Start provider in Trumbull County.

The Office of Head Start chose Alta to take on the program previously operated by Trumbull Community Action Group or TCAP which had operated Head Start in the county for decades.

Its a big deal for us. We think its a big deal for Trumbull County too, said Alta Care CEO Joe Shorokey.

With a new grant, Alta says the number of Head Start locations it operates will grow to more than 20 in both Trumbull and Mahoning counties and reach more than 1,100 children.

We have 11 locations in Mahoning County. By being awarded the grant, well be able to have ten more sites throughout Trumbull County. The majority of them are sites that had already been operating under the previous grantee, but well have a couple new ones as well, Shorokey said.

Itll also allow the organization to bring new services to Trumbull County including Early Head Start and the Expectant Mothers Program.

Even though we are disappointed that we arent operating Head Start anymore for Trumbull County, we are pleased that somebody with Altas reputation is operating the Head Start program for Trumbull and Mahoning County now, said Van Nelson, CEO of the Trumbull County Action Program.

TCAP says although its not operating Head Start anymore, it will continue to operate other programs that help people in the community including utility, rent, and heat assistance.

Theres been a misconception and misperception that TCAP is closed and that TCAP has gone away, Nelson said. We are still kicking, we are still alive and were still here to help our Trumbull County Community. I want everybody to know that.

Shorokey said families will be able to continue using the same services they had with TCAP through Alta.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Savannah, Missouri Police Department announced Tuesday that a headstone has been placed honoring a K-9 officer who died back in June after he was left in a hot car overnight.

According to Savannah Chief of Police David Vincent, K-9 Horus died on June 20 following the completion of his overnight patrol shift in the small town where he had served his community for over three years.

Two human remains discovered inside Missouri home

Since K-9 Horuss death, the community of Savannah and many others have been expressing their outrage and seeking justice for the loss of the young German Shepherds life on social media.

Many community members shared frustration after Horus was originally buried with no marker and created a makeshift memorial at the burial site.

Vincent says he has been unable to discuss the circumstances of the incident while the Missouri State Highway Patrol conducts its investigation into the incident.

The name or status of the law enforcement officer responsible for K-9 Horuss death has not been revealed, nor has there been an explanation for his tragic passing.

See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri

The police department said an anonymous donor purchased the permanent headstone for K-9 Officer Horus.

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FILE -Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa sits for photographs, with his lawmaker son Namal by his side, following his election victory in the general election at his residence in Tangalle, Sri Lanka, Aug. 7, 2020. T (AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena, File)

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP)  The man who is considered the heir apparent to the powerful Rajapaksa family in Sri Lanka will contest the presidential election in September, his political party said Wednesday, in an apparent bid to regain his family's lost power after a humiliating setback two years ago during an unprecedented economic crisis in the Indian ocean island nation.

The Sri Lanka People's Front said the 38-year-old lawyer Namal Rajapaksa, the eldest son of former strongman president Mahinda Rajapaksa, will be its candidate in the Sept. 21 election, the first since the nation plunged into its worst economic crisis.

The election is seen as key to Sri Lanka's efforts to conclude a critical debt restructuring program and completing the financial reforms agreed to under a bailout program by the International Monetary Fund.

The nominations for polling will be accepted on Aug. 15.

The Rajapaksa family has dominated Sri Lankan politics since the country gained independence from Britain in 1948, producing a dozen lawmakers from three generations spanning seven decades. Mahinda Rajapaksa ruled as president from 2005 to 2015, appealing to the nationalist sentiment of the islands Buddhist-Sinhalese majority.

Rajapaksa is revered by that majority for leading Sri Lanka to victory over ethnic Tamil rebels in 2009, ending a 26-year civil war.

In 2015, he lost to the opposition led by his former aide. But the family made a comeback in 2019, when Rajapaksa's younger brother, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, won the presidential election on a promise to restore security in the wake of the Easter Sunday suicide bombings that killed 290 people.

But the Rajapaksa family lost power unexpectedly in 2022 when Sri Lanka was engulfed in its worst economic crisis that was largely caused by mismanagement and lack of accountability.

The resulting shortages of essential goods sparked riots in 2022, leading to a political crisis that forced four Rajapaksa siblings and two of their sons, including Namal, to resign from their posts as president, prime minister and cabinet ministers. Namal Rajapaksa had been minister of youth and sports. But they remained as lawmakers.

Parliament elected then-Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as president.

The economic situation has improved under Wickremesinghe. But public dissatisfaction has grown over the governments effort to increase revenue by raising electricity bills and imposing heavy new income taxes on professionals and businesses as part of efforts to meet the conditions of the IMF, which approved a four-year bailout program in March.

Wickremesinghe has announced he will run in the September election, while main rivals will be opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and Anura Dissanayake, the leader of a leftist political party that has gained popularity after the economic debacle.

Its not clear whether Rajapaksa would be able to win the election, as his Sri Lanka People's Front is already split with some lawmakers having pledged support to Wickremesinghe.

Wickremesinghes party has only one seat in the 225-majority parliament, and he has been ruling with the support of lawmakers from the Rajapaksas' party.
Hendersonville man found guilty on over 50 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor

HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A Hendersonville man was found guilty on 54 counts related to sexual exploitation of a minor on Tuesday, a member of the state attorney generals office told News 2.

In November 2022, Hendersonville detectives executed a search warrant at Jay Chandlers residence and seized numerous electronic devices. Assistant District Attorney General Nathan Nichols said that a search of those devices revealed thousands of images depicting the sexual abuse of children.

FEBRUARY 2023: Family of victim in Hendersonville child abuse investigation speaks out

Sumner County Judge Dee David Gay found Chandler guilty as charged. In this case, Chandler faces a potential sentence of up to 416 years.

Sexual exploitation of a minor is an offense which is not eligible for probation, parole, or any form of early release; therefore, any sentence imposed will be served in its entirety, Nichols added.

Additionally, Chandler has two other pending cases that will be set for trial following his sentencing hearing. Those cases, Nichols said, involve two victims.

One of those victims is an 8-year-old girl that Chandler allegedly raped in 2017, while the other victim is 16. News 2 previously reported that Chandler was the supervisor of a teenage victim at a restaurant.

RELATED: Man arrested on child rape charges out of Hendersonville

Officers started an investigation into Chandler in October 2022 when the case was first brought to the mother of the teenage victims attention, per an affidavit.

Chandlers sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 4.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Hendersonville police are searching for two alleged auto thieves.

Based on fingerprints found inside a stolen car, authorities developed two names. One of the suspects has a violent criminal history out of Nashville. Hendersonville police shared video showing the suspects driving multiple stolen vehicles.

Terrain Johnson (Courtesy: Hendersonville Police Department)

Anthony Chambers (Courtesy: Hendersonville Police Department)

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

Ultimately, Hendersonville police told News 2 that the thieves took two Infiniti Q50s, one white and one black.

Police said that they broke into the cars, accessing computer ports to start the vehicles. The thieves were then seen driving to an Antioch McDonalds and ordering food. After that, they drove to a Thortons on Bell Road to fuel up. When the thieves could not start the white vehicle again, they abandoned it.

Police recovered the white Infiniti and found the suspects fingerprints. Detectives told News 2 that they identified the two alleged auto thieves as 21-year-old Terrain Johnson Anthony Chambers, 21.

A Tuesday press release added that Chambers and Johnson were both charged with two counts of theft of a motor vehicle over $10,000. They were also charged with one count of attempted theft of a motor vehicle over $10,000.

Hendersonville police told News 2 that Chambers had previously been arrested and charged in Metro connected to a robbery and shooting.

JUNE 2021: Teens charged after shooting worker during robbery in South Nashville

According to Metro police at the time, Chambers went into the store and spoke to one of the workers. He then grabbed a bag of items from the victim and ran out.

Investigators said Chambers then got into a Pontiac Grand Am with a Tennessee University of Alabama license plate. That car was being driven by Nicholas Towles.

Police said that the workers chased after the suspect and started fighting over the items. The worker got them back and ran into the store. Thats when authorities said Chambers got out of the vehicle and started shooting into the business. The other worker was shot and the suspects drove off.

Police got a description of the vehicle and spotted it at the intersection of Harding Place and Nolensville Pike. As an officer turned to get behind it, the suspect reportedly drove into oncoming traffic and ran a red light. The suspects crashed at the intersection of Harding Place and Humber Drive.

Metro police reported that both Chambers and Towles ran off but were caught after a brief foot chase. Police reportedly found Towles armed with a fully loaded Glock semiautomatic handgun. Officer recovered a Ruger 9mm semiautomatic handgun from Chambers path.

Both Chambers and Towles were charged with especially aggravated robbery, among other charges.

Hes gonna be found. We will find him, Hendersonville Detective Jason Steffy said. It might take some time, but we will find him.

The victim whose white Infiniti was stolen spoke to News 2 on the condition of anonymity.

(Courtesy: Auto theft victim)

(Courtesy: Auto theft victim)

(Courtesy: Auto theft victim)

(Courtesy: Auto theft victim)

Of course you dont think that police officers at your door is a joke, she said. When they wake you up and their first question is, Do you know where your vehicle is? Kind of confusing.

She said that the theft left her feeling shaken and vulnerable.

Up until this last Friday, it was really affecting me. It was affecting my sleep, she told News 2. I couldnt go to sleep at night. At the first crack of sunlight in the morning, my eyes would open and I would instantly start thinking about the car and could not go back to sleep.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The victim added that the thieves did more than $10,000 worth of damage to her car, including damage to the windows, bumpers, sunroof and more.

Its really disheartening to know there are people out there like that, people who do those kinds of things, she added. [They] dont think about or care about who they are affecting, but I am looking forward to hopefully seeing this guy in court someday.

Police have asked anyone with information on this case to please call and report the information

to the Hendersonville Police Department at (615) 822-1111 or the Hendersonville Crime

Stoppers at (615) 594-4113. Tips may also be submitted using the P3 Tips app.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A local girl was honored this week for quickly responding to a fire, utilizing skills she says she learned in school.

On June 11, 2024, 5-year-old Sophia Lewis noticed smoke seeping from beneath a closed bathroom door and informed an adult who dialed 911.

Dayton Fire to recognize two in promotion ceremony

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the smoke detectors had not yet detected the smoke from the incident. They say this underscores the importance of early recognition and fire safety. Thanks to Lewiss fast acting, both occupants safely escaped the home.

After a massive loss nearby due in part by a delay in emergency notifications, Ms. Lewiss actions are a hallmark example of what early recognition and fast notification to 911 can do, said Fire Chief Mike Crist. We are fortunate Ms. Lewis had the forethought and calm demeanor to notify an adult. We are honored to recognize Sophia for her heroism and bravery.

Lewis told firefighters she learned about fire safety and what to do in an emergency in school. Harrison Twp. firefighters work with local schools annually on fire safety and preparedness.

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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

Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah organization congratulated Yehya al-Sinwar on Wednesday on his election as leader of the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Al-Sinwar's appointment as head of the organization's political bureau was proof of Israel's failure, Hezbollah said in a statement.

Israel had not been able to achieve its goal - the killing of Hamas leaders and functionaries - it added.

With al-Sinwar's appointment, Hamas was also sending a "strong message" to Israel and its allies, since Hamas was united in its decisions and remained steadfast. It was "continuing on the path of resistance and struggle," Hezbollah said.

Meanwhile the pro-Iranian Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hamas allies as well, also congratulated al-Sinwar.

A spokesman for the militia said on X that the Houthis prayed that al-Sinwar would receive divine support to fulfill his responsibilities in this historic phase in the confrontation with Israel.

Following the killing of Hamas foreign chief Ismail Haniyeh, the Islamist terror group appointed al-Sinwar as the organization's new leader on Tuesday evening.

He lives in an unknown location in the Gaza Strip - it is suspected that he is hiding in the organization's tunnels under the coastal area. His predecessor Haniyeh was based in the Qatari capital Doha and was considered Hamas' chief diplomat.

Hezbollah is allied with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, both of which are allies of Iran.
Hezbollah looks increasingly like it may strike Israel independent of whatever Iran may intend to do, two sources familiar with the intelligence told CNN.

The Lebanon-based militant group is moving faster than Iran in its planning and is looking to strike Israel in the coming days, one of the sources said. Iran, meanwhile, appears to still be working out how it plans to respond, multiple officials have told CNN. One US military official told CNN that Iran had made some, but not all, of the preparations that the US would expect to see in advance of a major attack on Israel.

But given Lebanons proximity to Israel as its direct neighbor to the north, Hezbollah could act with little to no notice, the second source familiar with the intelligence said  which is not true of Iran.

It is not clear how or if Iran and Hezbollah, the nations most powerful proxy, are coordinating on a possible attack right now, the person added, and there is a sense among some officials that the two may not be entirely aligned on how to move forward.

Looming attacks would come in response to Israel last week killing the top military commander for Hezbollah, Fuad Shukr, in Lebanon. The next day, Israel is widely believed to have assassinated Hamas political leader in Tehran. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement in that incident.

In the days since, countries around the world are closely watching the region. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation convened an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday at the level of foreign ministers to address ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The meeting, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, resulted in a draft final communique condemning Israels actions and reaffirming solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

A significant highlight of the communique was the condemnation of the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas leader and former Palestinian Prime Minister, in Tehran. The OIC held Israel responsible for this act, calling it a heinous crime and a violation of international law and the UN Charter. The organization warned that such actions by Israel undermine regional security and stability.

This week, 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.

CNNs Nic Robertson, Eyad Kourdi, and AnneClaire Stapleton contributed to this report.

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High school senior sells art to help pay medical expenses for those in need

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  A rising high school senior in Virginia Beach saw a need in the community and decided to do something about it.

Urvi Jain is a rising senior at Ocean Lakes High School, where she attends the Math and Science Academy. She recently shadowed a dermatology practice and noticed a number of patients who couldnt afford the medications they needed to get better.

This really bothered me, because I have a family member who has struggled with a dermatologic condition, Jain said, and seeing the fact that there are patients out there that dont have the same privilege to access the medications they need made me want to see if there is something I could do to bring about change about this.

So, she created Actions Through Art, a fundraiser with the sole purpose of helping patients pay for necessary treatments and medications. She is selling artwork of her own, as well as donated artwork from other students throughout the area.

So far, all the art is sourced from students in Virginia Beach because I myself am an artist, Jain said. So, Ive got artwork from the art students at Ocean Lakes High School and the gifted art students at Old Donation School. So, from elementary school kids to high school kids, Ive kind of collected art from them, and theyve been generous enough to donate them for this.

Jain is also accepting donations of artwork from professional artists as well. Actions Through Art also set up a GoFundMe to help reach the fundraising goal.

Right now the goal is set at around $3,000 because thats the max I can reach if I sell all my artwork, but so far Im around like 22% of my goal, Jain said.

Of course, Jain would like to raise more than her goal. You can help by purchasing artwork from her today (Aug. 7) at Pariser Dermatology Specialists on Kempsville Circle in Norfolk. She is selling the artwork from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Prices range from $15 to $100.

Jain said she partnered with Lackey Clinic and Commonshare Pharmacy. She will give the money she raised to both organizations. She said they will distribute the funds raised to those in need of dermatological care in Hampton Roads.

If you know of a child working hard to make our local community a better place to live, contact Katie Collett at katie.collett@wavy.com

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A 9-mile extension linking the High Trestle and Raccoon River Valley multi-use trails, forming a nearly continuous 120-mile paved loop though metro Des Moines that will be among the nation's longest, will open Aug. 17, said Dallas County Conservation Director Curt Cable.

The new segment is part of the High Trestle Trail, which originates in Ankeny and crosses the Des Moines River on a nationally known, 130-foot-tall former railroad bridge that features sculptured representations of the coal cribs that supported the ceilings of the region's coal mines.

Completed with a $1 million grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority, the extension reaches from the trail's current western terminus in Woodward through Bouton to Perry, where it meets the Raccoon River Valley Trail, already a 72-mile loop though Dallas and Guthrie counties.

Bikers cross the High Trestle Bridge. A new extension will link the trail to the High Trestle Trail.

Existing links via the Clive Greenbelt, Walnut Creek, Bill Riley, Meredith and Gay Lea Wilson trails, along with a segment of trail along Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, complete the larger loop. The only significant on-street segment, a 1.9-mile stretch between Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway and the south Gay Lea Wilson trailhead on Scott Boulevard, will gain a full trail linkage with the completion of the Southeast Connector from the MLK parkway's current eastern terminus to U.S. 65. Work is slated to begin next year.

Cities along the trails have been getting ready for the extension, especially in Ankeny, which in 2022 built an elaborate, $3 million bridge to carry riders over Oralabor Road near where the Gay Lea Wilson and High Trestle trails meet.

It is a game-changer for tourism and outdoor recreation for our region," said Ankeny Economic Development Director Derek Lord. "You have two very popular trails that are very unique and different from each other. To be able to connect those two with one of the most iconic features in the state of Iowa the High Trestle Bridge whats not to love about it?"

Restaurants, hotels and short-term rental properties will pop up to serve riders, some of whom will come from outside the state, Lord said. But it's an important asset for residents as well, he said.

"It's just a nice, new enhancement to an already incredible amenity in our region for people who live here and who use the trails," Lord said. "Think about how far do you want to go and which way do you want to go?"

A bridge in Ankeny carries the High Trestle Trail over busy Oralabor Road.

Bike ride scheduled to open new trail segment

To celebrate the opening, Iowa Bicycle Coalition Executive Director Luke Hoffman will lead a bike ride starting at 11 a.m. Aug. 17 from the Raccoon River Valley Trailhead in Perry along the new link to the High Trestle Trail. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will occur about 1 p.m. during the group's trip back through Bouton to Perry.

The ride will be free and at a "leisurely" pace," according to the RRVT Association.

In the tourism commercials for the state of Iowa, theyre showing images of the" High Trestle Bridge, Hoffman said. Its part of the symbolism of what makes our state great.

Michelle and Jesse Kraus of Waukee pose for a photo in Dallas Center on the Raccoon River Valley Trail during the 2024 Baccoon RIde.

The High Trestle Trail draws 250,000 visitors per year, and a 2019 Ankeny study found that 18%, or about 45,000 people, were from out of state. Iowans from outside the metro make up another 34%, or 85,000, of the annual bridge visitors.

A 2012 study by the Iowa Bicycle Coalition and University of Northern Iowa found that recreational cyclists generate $364.8 million in direct and indirect economic impacts on the state. But with more than 3,600 miles of multi-use trails statewide now, the group wants more recent economic data, and the bicycle coalition and Raccoon River Valley Trail Association have hired an Ohio firm to conduct a new survey, Hoffman said.

The Iowa Bicycle Coalition hosts its annual Baccoon ride on the Raccoon River Valley Trail, drawing 6,000 riders and generating $500,000 each year, according to the group. This year's edition had riders from 20 states, Hoffman said.

He noted that the Iowa Legislature this year raised the amount of money spent on the State Recreational Trails fund to $3.5 million from $2.5 million. That shows the state's leaders see opportunities in trails, he said.

This has an incredible economic impact that is beyond just someone spending their money at a restaurant near the trail," he said. "Its also a legacy for future generations because its also a community asset that has benefits. Trails are one of those tools in the toolbox that we can't ignore."

Lord said that in order to sell the idea of the combined loop, it needs a new name.

"It's important that we market it and brand it," he said. "If we want to leverage it, it needs a name."

Philip Joens covers retail and real estate for the Des Moines Register. He can be reached at 515-284-8184, pjoens@registermedia.com or on Twitter @Philip_Joens.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Aug. 17 opening set for Raccoon River Valley-High Trestle trail link
By Xie Yu

HONG KONG (Reuters) -An investor has filed a petition in a Chinese court to liquidate a major onshore unit of heavily indebted property developer China Evergrande, a stock filing by the petitioner showed on Wednesday.

Vanward, a Shenzhen-listed electric appliance manufacturer, cited a dispute with Evergrande unit Guangzhou Kailong Real Estate over an investment worth 200 million yuan ($27.9 million).

A court in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou is reviewing Vanward's case, the filing said.

Vanward won an arbitrary ruling in Shenzhen in December 2022 that called on Kailong to return the investment with interest accrued and legal costs. Kailong has yet to comply, Vanward said in its filing.

The petition comes after a Hong Kong court in January ordered China Evergrande, the offshore holding company of the onshore units, to be liquidated after failing to provide a satisfactory restructuring plan for $23 billion in offshore debt. A Hong Kong liquidation order, however, is not automatically recognised in mainland China.

A spokesperson for the liquidators of Evergrande declined to comment on the petition.

Evergrande said in a statement to Reuters a bankruptcy of Kailong would not affect the normal operations of Hengda Real Estate - Evergrande's flagship property entity in mainland China - including its completion and delivery of homes to buyers.

Evergrande said Kailong is the holding platform of Hengda and it does not operate any property projects. Kailong controls a 60.3% stake in Hengda, business registry database Qichacha shows.

On Monday, Evergrande's electric vehicle unit said a Chinese court had ruled that two of its subsidiaries must enter bankruptcy and be reorganised.

Evergrande was once China's largest property developer and has more than $300 billion in liabilities.

(Reporting by Xie Yu; Additional reporting by Clare Jim; editing by Neil Fullick, Christopher Cushing and Jason Neely)
HONOLULU (KHON2)  The annual Hiroshima Commemoration and Peace Service took place at the Izumo Taishakyo Mission of Hawaii on Tuesday morning.

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The ceremony began with a blessing, Shinto purification and special messages from community and religious leaders. All attendees were given the opportunity to ring the Hiroshima Peace Bell replica to show their support for world peace.

The peace bell replica was a gift from Hiroshima, Japan to the people of Hawaii in recognition of their strong relationship following World War II.

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The peace service marks the 79th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing.

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The $75 million directed to Charles R. Drew University will strengthen the school's operations, increase its capacity for research and bolster its endowment, the school said. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times)

A historically Black medical school in South Los Angeles has received a $75-million gift, the largest in the university's history.

Charles. R. Drew University of Medicine and Science received the funds as part of Bloomberg Philanthropies' Greenwood Initiative, which seeks to accelerate wealth accumulation in the Black community by addressing systemic underinvestment, university officials said in an announcement Tuesday.

This monumental gift from Bloomberg Philanthropies is a transformative investment in the future of healthcare, our university, and most importantly, our students, David M. Carlisle, the university's president and chief executive, said in a statement. It will significantly enhance Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Sciences ability to educate and empower diverse healthcare professionals who are committed to serving underserved communities.

Dr. David M. Carlisle, the president & CEO of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, called the donation "a transformative investment." (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

The South L.A. school received the money as part of a $600-million gift to support the country's four historically Black medical schools  Drew, Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, Meharry Medical College in Nashville and Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta  and help launch the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine in New Orleans, the organization said.

"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," former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies and Bloomberg LP, said in a statement. "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."

The $75 million directed to Charles R. Drew University will strengthen the school's operations, increase its capacity for research and bolster its endowment at a time of rising tuition costs, the university statement said. Bloomberg Philanthropies also awarded the school a $7.7-million gift in 2020, at the time the single largest gift in the school's history.

Charles R. Drew University was founded in 1966 in the wake of the violent unrest in Watts, in response to the lack of adequate medical facilities in the area. It was named after Charles R. Drew, a distinguished surgeon and former chair of surgery at Howard University whose work focused on blood banking and blood plasma storage and transfusion.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) has responded to a hit gas line in the Northgate neighborhood that has closed a road off of Voyager Parkway.

According to the Colorado Springs Police Department Communications Center (CSPD Communications), CSFD crews were at the site of a hit gas line in the 1100 block of Middle Creek Parkway between Voyager Parkway and Bridle Oaks Lane.

CSPD Communications said Middle Creek Parkway is closed while crews work to fix the gas line.

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Ohio authorities have launched a manhunt looking for an alleged kidnapper who slipped through their grasp and somehow managed to abduct the same woman twice.



Grove City police released a statement announcing their efforts to find 38-year-old Quinntel Bagley. They said he was last seen on the westside of Columbus in the Hilltop area the morning of August 2. Around 6 a.m. that day, an unidentified woman claimed Bagley kidnapped her from her Grove City home and drove her to the west side of Columbus. She told officers she was able to get away from Bagley unharmed, reporting him last being seen at Eureka Ave and West Broad Street.

However, this wasnt the first time she had a frightening run-in with Bagley. Authorities said the two had a history, citing a recent kidnapping offense on June 13 where he was accused of abducting that very same woman.

The United States Marshals said in a statement he escaped law enforcement custody following this incident. On body camera footage, hes seen fleeing the police while handcuffed behind his back in the parking lot area of Fairfield Medical Center. Neither officer present appeared to chase him down the parking garage.

He then allegedly broke into a home near the hospital, bullied the woman inside into giving up her car keys and escaped the stolen Hyundai while armed with a knife outside, per The Columbus Dispatch.

Bagleys record is decorated with prior abduction stunts, including a 10-year prison sentence for kidnapping another woman after pleading guilty in 2013, per The Columbus Dispatch. Hes currently wanted for aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, failure to comply, parole violation for kidnapping and failure to register as a sex offender.



Authorities are offering a $5,000 reward for any help in locating Bagley. If you know any information on dude, call 911 or contact the United States Marshals at 614-469-5540. At the moment, police consider him armed and dangerous.

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Homeless man charged with pair of unprovoked Queens stabbings minutes apart; one victim in critical condition

A homeless man was charged Wednesday with stabbing two strangers in Queens in unprovoked attacks minutes apart, leaving one of them clinging to life, police said.

Feruz Radjabov is accused of stabbing a man pumping gas in Ozone Park in the back and then dashing into a nearby subway stop  where he allegedly slashed the throat of a man waiting for the train.

Radjabov, 40, was charged Wednesday with attempted murder, felony assault and weapon possession plus criminal trespass, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration and harassment.

The first victim, a 25-year-old man, was pumping gas at the Mobil station North Conduit Ave. near Cohancy St. in Ozone Park when he was knifed without warning about 5:15 p.m. Tuesday. Surveillance video captured that attack, police say.

He was bleeding a lot from the left side, station worker Rakib Hussein, 30, said of the vicitm. He was pumping gas at pump number one and the guy walked up and stabbed him in the back.

The young man staggered into the gas station where Hussein was working behind the cash register and begged him for help, he recounted.

He said Call the police,' Hussein recalled. When I saw how hard he was bleeding I was in shock. I was scared. What was I supposed to do?

Medics rushed the victim to Jamaica Hospital, where he is recovering.

Radjabov ran from the Mobil station into the Aqueduct-North Conduit Ave. train station a block away and slashed a 69-year-old man in the neck on the Far Rockaway-bound platform, according to cops.

The man was in critical condition at Jamaica Hospital.

Radjabov was nabbed minutes after the second vicious attack. According to ABC7 New York, Radjabov hid under the platform at the subway station after the stabbings, where police caught up with him.

The suspect was brought to Queens Hospital for a psychological evaluation, the TV station reported.
Hospitals that pursue patients for unpaid bills will have to tell L.A. County

Barbara Ferrer is the director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Under a new ordinance backed Tuesday by county supervisors, hospitals would have to inform the public health department when they launch debt collection efforts on patients. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Hospitals must promptly report to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health every time they try to collect medical debt from patients, under an ordinance backed Tuesday by county supervisors.

The ordinance, which requires a second vote to be adopted, requires hospitals to tell the county within a month or two of initiating debt collection, which can include making phone calls or mailing letters to seek payment more than 180 days after the initial billing, selling the debt to a collections agency, garnishing wages, seizing a bank account or informing a consumer reporting agency.

The new rules would also require hospitals to report up to four times annually on the medical debt amassed in recent months by their patients and what financial assistance they have offered them. If they fail to do so, they could face fines and legal action.

Public health officials said the rules would help shed light on hospital practices and address a crucial question: Where are the missed opportunities for hospitals to provide financial assistance?

Hospitals are supposed to provide financial aid to patients in need, but "the rub is the implementation," said Dr. Anish Mahajan, chief deputy director of the L.A. County Department of Public Health. In a survey by the national nonprofit Dollar For, less than 30% of patients saddled with hospital bills they couldn't afford said they had applied for and ultimately received financial assistance.

Many hospitals make good efforts to offer aid, Mahajan said, but data show "there is just so much medical debt  and that debt is disproportionately carried by poor people."

Los Angeles County officials estimate that medical debt totaled more than $2.9 billion in the county in 2022, burdening 1 in 10 adults.

The public health department has launched an initiative to quash medical debt, including buying up and forgiving existing debt. In June, it set aside $5 million for a planned agreement with a nonprofit that erases such debts, which county officials estimated could eliminate $500 million of debt for 150,000 residents.

But the county has stressed that it also wants to prevent patients from incurring medical debt in the first place. Mahajan said that by pulling together information under the new ordinance, "we can then understand how hospitals are doing ... in having their patients who should get financial assistance actually receive it."

For instance, the county said it could match up data about patients whose medical bills were sent to collections to see if they might have been eligible for assistance, then reach out to hospitals about their findings.

"The goal is to help hospitals do better," Mahajan said.

The figures could also help shed light on whether financial assistance is failing to reach particular groups of L.A. County residents, which could help guide future outreach and public education about the aid.

For instance, Mahajan suggested that in some cases, hospitals might have good policies on financial assistance, but some patients may fear seeking such aid amid worries about their immigration status.

Tackling such concerns could involve not just hospitals but other members of the county coalition that has sought to address medical debt, including legal aid and consumer groups, he said.

The mandatory reports could also give health facilities a sense of whether their financial assistance and debt collection practices fall outside the norm, compared with other hospitals in the area. Public health officials reported that hospitals across L.A. County provided more than $600 million in financial assistance in 2021, but more than half of it was from just four facilities  those run by the county itself.

Those safety net hospitals "can't cover the entire county, and they're doing the bulk of the financial assistance," said Dr. Naman Shah, director of the division of medical and dental affairs at L.A. County Public Health. "The reason for this ordinance is that we can do better."

Dr. Elaine Batchlor, chief executive of MLK Community Healthcare, told the county board that her Willowbrook hospital proactively takes steps to assess whether patients need aid, using software and other tools to check whether they are likely able to afford copays, then writing off the debt if their finances appear shaky.

Such financial tools "are widely available, and they're not difficult to use," Batchlor said Tuesday.

L.A. County will also put up a website where the public can peruse aggregate data about medical debt at local hospitals, although it is still determining exactly what information will be posted, Mahajan said.

The Hospital Assn. of Southern California said its members are deeply concerned about medical debt as an issue, but that the organization remains worried about some aspects of the county requirements.

In reaction to hospital concerns, the county has eased some rules surrounding how often reports must be provided, but "there still remain concerns about how voluminous" the data requirements will ultimately be, said Adena Tessler, the hospital association's regional vice president for Los Angeles County.

For example, Tessler said that in some cases, hospitals might not be able to provide information because it hasn't been provided by patients themselves. In addition, "the focus on hospitals remains a concern, because it's just a piece of the medical debt issue."

Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said Tuesday that hospitals are a reasonable place to focus initially because "hospital bills comprise the majority of the debt and the largest bills." Supervisor Janice Hahn added that "the work won't stop here today" and that the county will be exploring how other entities  including insurance companies and private provider groups  play a role.

"Hospitals are not the sole cause of medical debt," she said, "but starting there will help us develop a plan."

Stanford University professor of economics Neale Mahoney applauded the effort, saying he hoped it would expand to other jurisdictions. "Medical debt is a dark corner in the U.S. healthcare system," he said, and shining a light on it can be "a strong disinfectant."

The L.A. County requirements would apply only to a small number of hospitals in unincorporated areas  county officials estimated the number at seven, including MLK Community Hospital  but local cities could adopt them to cover their jurisdictions as well. Hospitals will have roughly six months after the L.A. County ordinance goes into effect before failing to turn in the reports becomes a violation.

Tessler, of the hospital association, said that because the rules will be rolled out first in the unincorporated areas, her hope is that government officials will take the time to make sure that the reporting requirements make sense before expanding such rules to other parts of L.A. County.

Ferrer said her department would reassess the burdens of collecting such data in a year. In light of concerns about patient information, she said the portal that hospitals will use to provide information when they try to collect debt from individual patients is compliant with federal law on protecting patient privacy.

Batchlor, in her remarks Tuesday, described helping an uninsured friend diagnosed with cancer get the care she needed, only to recently learn that the woman was again uninsured because "she can now afford to either pay down her medical debt or pay the premiums for her health insurance  she can't afford to do both."

The hospital executive said that the "root cause of medical debt is the high cost of healthcare and the failure of health insurance to cover those costs."

To solve the problem, she said, "we will ultimately need to address these root causes."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(PUEBLO, Colo.)  Two German Shepherd dogs are home safe with their owners after the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR) and the Pueblo Fire Department joined forces to rescue the stranded pups from the Arkansas River.

According to a post on HSPPRs Facebook page, the Pueblo Police Department alerted Animal Law Enforcement (ALE) after multiple 911 calls were received about stranded dogs in the Arkansas River. HSPPR said ALE Officer Solero responded, and when she arrived on scene, she could not find the dogs but could hear them crying.

HSPPR said Officer Solero followed the howls and desperate cries, until she found the two German Shepherds, named Jack and Axel, stuck on a rock in the river. Solero quickly realized this rescue was simply too much for one person, so she called the Pueblo Fire Department for help.

With both teams working together, firefighters rigged themselves to a fence and repelled down to the levee, said HSPPR.

Courtesy: Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region

Courtesy: Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region

Courtesy: Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region

Courtesy: Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region

Courtesy: Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region

HSPPR said Officer Solero demonstrated how to use slip leads, and one by one, Jack and Axel were pulled up the embankment to safety.

As soon as their feet hit the pavement, it was nonstop tail wags and tippy, tippy toes! HSPPR said in its Facebook post. The dogs were immediately reunited with their owner, and together, they walked back to their car for a relieving (and wet dog-smelling) ride back home.

HSPPR praised the efforts of its ALE officer and the Pueblo Fire Department in reuniting the grateful dogs with their family.

It took multiple teams to rescue both Jack and Axel, and we couldnt be more proud of Officer Solero, the Pueblo Fire Department, and the Pueblo Police Department for all being a part of this rescue! HSPPR said.

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Humza Yousaf says he is 'as Scottish as they come' but has contemplated leaving the UK - Robert Perry/PA Wire

Humza Yousaf has said that he and his family may have to leave the UK because of far-Right riots.

The former Scottish first minister, the first Muslim leader of a Western democracy, said he had become so fearful at rising Islamophobia that he had considered leaving the UK.

While Scotland is yet to be hit by the riots that have spread across England and Northern Ireland, Mr Yousaf described the targeting of minority groups as horrendous and said he and other minorities felt their sense of belonging is questioned.

Speaking to the News Agents podcast, he added: I am about as Scottish as they come. Born in Scotland, raised in Scotland, educated in Scotland, just welcomed my third child here in Scotland. I was the leader of the Scottish Government for just over a year. You cut me open and Im about as Scottish as you come.

The truth of the matter is I dont know if the future for me, my wife and my three children is going to be here in Scotland or the United Kingdom, or indeed in Europe, and the West. I have for some time worried about the rise of Islamophobia.

Humza Yousaf with his extended family, friends and colleagues after becoming Scottish first minister in 2023 - Jane Barlow/PA Wire

Mr Yousaf said anti-Muslim and anti-migrant rhetoric had been normalised in the UK and was now playing out in the most horrendous, violent way possible.

He added: That makes me question whether or not my family has an existence in the UK or not. Im not the only one  Ive had hundreds of messages from the Muslim community saying the exact same thing.

Mr Yousaf said that when he was a child his father acquired Pakistani identity cards for the family as he claimed that they may one day have to leave Scotland. He had viewed this as ridiculous at the time, but was now considering the same thing.

I could give you example after example, of where the language of the far Right, driven by Islamophobia, has now become institutionalised in our politics, said the 39-year-old.

He named Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, Lee Anderson, the Reform MP, and a former home secretary as three individuals who he said had stoked racism and Islamophobia in the UK with their rhetoric.

The Glasgow MSP also praised Sir Keir Starmers response to the riots.

Humza Yousaf with his wife, Nadia, and family - Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

Police Scotland has said it has no intelligence to suggest that the violent disorder seen in England is likely to break out in Scotland.

However, police are aware of a series of attempts to organise Right-wing events in the country, with one pro-UK rally planned for Sep 7 in Glasgow being promoted by the far-Right activist Tommy Robinson.

Mr Yousafs comments were echoed by Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, who said black, brown and minority people did not feel safe in some parts of the country.

In a series of tweets, Mr Khan wrote: Our communities are facing the threat of hatred  including violence  fuelled by insidious racism, prejudice, and Islamophobia. Its the legacy of decades of dog whistles, including from some irresponsible politicians.

We all bear not just the responsibility, but also the duty to stand up to hate. To be vocal. To be allies to those who are being unjustly targeted  online and off. To our black, brown and minority communities: NEVER forget that you are loved and wanted in London.

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Hamas choice of a hardline political leader did little to comfort Gazans displaced, hungry, and seeking a way out of their misery after nearly 10 months of war on Wednesday.

The Palestinian militant group appointed Yahya Sinwar to lead its political bureau on Tuesday, replacing Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran in an attack Iran blamed on Israel. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility.

The move consolidates power within the organization under Sinwar, who until this week was the head of Hamas in Gaza. Sinwar, a hardened militant with many years spent in an Israeli prison, is viewed as less compromising in dealings with Israel and closer to Iran than his predecessor. He is accused by Israel of being the mastermind of the October 7 attack and believed to be hiding in a tunnel in Gaza.

Im surprised about this move, said Hatem Mohammed, 47, a Gaza-based retired civil servant for the Palestinian Authority that is run by Fatah, a rival party to Hamas. Its a hasty, irrational and reactionary move in response to Haniyehs assassination. They (Hamas) know internally that hes not fit for the job. Hes an emotive and hasty person.

The situation in Gaza, he told CNN, needs a leader who knows politics, like Haniyeh, (former political leader Khaled) Meshaal or (senior Hamas member) Mousa Abu Marzook.

This appointment sends a message that the war will continue. I dont know what they were thinking, said Mohammed, who said he lost five members of his family in the war and suffers from infection brought about by food poisoning.

Israels war in Gaza has killed more than 39,000 people in the enclave, according to the Palestinian authorities. Sinwar, meanwhile, is believed by US officials to be deep underground, possibly surrounded by Israeli hostages as human shields.

Sinwars appointment has cast uncertainty on the fate ceasefire talks with Israel that would also see Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners released. He is hard to reach, is considered more hardline than Haniyeh, and is seen as being less vulnerable to pressure from Arab nations than Haniyeh, who lived in Qatar.

The death is all the same

We dont care who they name (as leader). The names are plenty, but the death is all the same. All theyve brought us is destruction, said Ismail Jalal, a father of two in northern Gaza who says he struggles to find food for his sick children. All were asking for is a ceasefire. Someone who will be able to reach a deal and save what is left of our people and the children that are dying daily someone who can practice self-restraint, with no empty slogans.

Abu Fadi Rafeeq from Beit Lahia, northern Gaza, and displaced in Khan Younis, said the decision to appoint Sinwar was reckless. The new leader is stubborn and will let the entire population die just so he can keep his word.

He doesnt suffer like me. He doesnt go hungry like me. He hasnt lost his entire family like me, he told CNN, adding that he has lost 38 members of his family, including both his parents, his two sisters and their children, and two of his brothers wives.

I lost everything. My house, my soul and my family, he said.

Israel launched the war in retaliation to Hamas-led militants October 7 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and more than 250 abducted, according to Israeli authorities.

Despite some Gazans being disgruntled with Hamas choice of political leader, there are indications that support for the organization remains significant in the enclave.

Polling in Gaza faces multiple challenges, including population displacement, peoples reluctance to criticize Hamas publicly and the risks to personal safety in war time. But one survey conducted by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research between May 26 and June 1 in the West Bank and Gaza showed that only 8% of Gazans blame Hamas for their suffering, with two-thirds blaming Israel. Of Gazan respondents, 46% supported Hamas returning to power in the enclave after the war. Satisfaction with Hamas performance stood at 64% and Sinwars at 50%.

Hes the best choice to lead the next phase, said Abu Ali, an injured Gazan who said he was a Hamas fighter. Hes the only one who has lived this ordeal.

CNNs Abbas Al Lawati contributed to this report.

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Investors were disappointed with the weak earnings posted by Fresenius Medical Care AG (ETR:FME ). Despite the soft profit numbers, our analysis has optimistic about the overall quality of the income statement.

View our latest analysis for Fresenius Medical Care

The Impact Of Unusual Items On Profit

For anyone who wants to understand Fresenius Medical Care's profit beyond the statutory numbers, it's important to note that during the last twelve months statutory profit was reduced by 257m due to unusual items. While deductions due to unusual items are disappointing in the first instance, there is a silver lining. We looked at thousands of listed companies and found that unusual items are very often one-off in nature. And that's hardly a surprise given these line items are considered unusual. If Fresenius Medical Care doesn't see those unusual expenses repeat, then all else being equal we'd expect its profit to increase over the coming year.

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 Fresenius Medical Care's Profit Performance

Because unusual items detracted from Fresenius Medical Care's earnings over the last year, you could argue that we can expect an improved result in the current quarter. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that Fresenius Medical Care's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! Unfortunately, though, its earnings per share actually fell back over the last year. The goal of this article has been to assess how well we can rely on the statutory earnings to reflect the company's potential, but there is plenty more to consider. If you'd like to know more about Fresenius Medical Care as a business, it's important to be aware of any risks it's facing. For example - Fresenius Medical Care has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of Fresenius Medical Care's profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. Some people consider a high return on equity to be a good sign of a quality business. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks with high insider ownership.

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
When a Bradenton man let his brother borrow his car to go to work Monday, the last thing he expected was for it to end up stuck and submerged in water.

But as Tod Diep stared at his Audi Tuesday afternoon, the top of the car was barely visible above the flowing waters that flooded Upper Manatee River Road in the wake of Hurricane Debbys historic rainfall and the strategic release of water from Lake Manatee.

Honestly, when I heard the news, I was a little bit angry that my brother got himself into that situation, Diep said. But Im just happy everyone is OK.

Diep said his brother was forced to sit on the blue sedans roof in near-total darkness at 4 a.m. while waiting to be rescued, with the car stuck and water levels rising.

Dieps brother is one of hundreds rescued amid a storm that Manatee County Commissioner Mike Rahn called a 100-year-flood, signifying the rarity of such a weather event. Rahn said emergency operations teams have been working 24/7 to assist residents throughout the storm.

As of Tuesday morning, Rahn said there have been 55 water rescues to save 210 individuals and two horses in Manatee County since the storm began. Over the last three days, Rahn said the call center has fielded over 2,200 calls.

Residents in Mill Creek faced flooded roadways in the wake of Hurricane Debbys passing.

Hurricane Debby causes historic flooding

This was historic. I mean, weve had massive amounts of rain dumped on us at one time. Some places got up to 18 inches of rain in Manatee County along with high tides, Rahn said. Thats what caused a lot of this.

Rahn appeared alongside U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, R-FL, and fellow Manatee County leaders at a news conference Tuesday morning, where they discussed the impacts of Hurricane Debby.

Scott said he met with FEMA officials last week to ensure resources will be available as needed.

Both Scott and Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown urged residents to take caution in the days following the storm.

We can rebuild our houses, our businesses, things like that. You just cant rebuild a life, Scott said.

Senator Rick Scott joined local officials at a press conference Tuesday at the Manatee County Emergency Operations Center on the latest statistics from the effects of Hurricane Debby.

Among the things that will need to be rebuilt in Hurricane Debbys aftermath is the fencing along the 22 acres of Nicole Phelans Rye Road property, more than half of which she estimates is under 10 to 12 feet of water following the release of water from Lake Manatee.

We went from a pasture property to a waterfront property, Phelan said.

Manatee residents miss emergency release alert

County officials announced Monday that a strategic release of water from Lake Manatee was done as a precautionary measure to ensure the structural integrity of the Manatee Dam amid heavy rainfall.

But Phelan said she and her partner recently bought the property and did not receive emergency alerts from the county giving notice that the water was being released.

We had no idea where the water was coming from. We assumed it was the river, Phelan said.

Nicole Phelan describes waking up to find her pasture, behind her, flooded with rain and outflow from Lake Manatee after Hurricane Debby.

Phelan said she was very fortunate that her house did not appear to be damaged in the flood, but said that while she knows the county had to release the water in order to preserve the dam, she wishes officials handled the situation differently and found a way to warn more residents.

Some Bradenton residents took to social media Monday to share similar complaints, arguing that the county didnt give people enough notice.

But Rahn said the county did its best under unprecedented circumstances.

There might be some residents that didnt see it, didnt hear it or didnt look on any of the social media that we sent out, but our public information team does a phenomenal job of getting information out as fast we can. This event happened very quickly and happened very suddenly, Rahn said. The dam did exactly what its supposed to do.

Rain and water from a release at the Lake Manatee dam flooded roadways in its path, including portions of Upper Manatee River Road. Barely visible is Tod Dieps submerged Audi. The driver escaped unharmed.

Rain and water from a release at the Lake Manatee dam flooded roadways in its path, including portions of Upper Manatee River Road.

Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, in turquoise shirt, meets with other officials at Manatee Countys Emergency Operations Center ahead of a press conference on the effects of Hurricane Debby.
Hurricanes dont stop at the coast  these mountain towns know how severe inland flood damage can be, and theyre preparing

The French Broad River winds through the mountains of western North Carolina, fed by dozens of mountain streams, and crosses the city of Asheville. At over 2,000 feet above sea level and more than 250 miles from the coast, it is an unlikely place to prepare for a hurricane.

Yet, the remnants of several hurricanes have swept through this region over the years, sending rivers in the region raging out of their banks.

When these storms hit back to back, the devastation can be enormous. In September 2004, for example, remnants of Hurricanes Frances, Ivan and Jeanne all brought excessive rain to western North Carolina in the span of a few weeks, overwhelming the French Broad and other rivers in the Asheville area.

Western North Carolinas history is just one example of the inland risks from tropical cyclones.

A U.S. map of hurricane storm tracks since 1851 shows that the storms and their remnants often travel far inland. Yellows to reds reflect increasing hurricane strength. Green is tropical storm strength, and blue and gray are weaker but can still be damaging. NOAA Climate.gov

In 1955, Connie, followed closely by Diane, produced some of the worst inland river flooding in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts. Diane became known as the first billion-dollar storm. The compound impacts prompted Congress to fund major studies of hurricane meteorology and protection efforts.

Vermont was caught off guard by Tropical Storm Irene in 2011, which swept away hundreds of homes. In 1998, Tropical Storm Charley traveled nearly 200 miles up the Rio Grande Valley, quickly flooding the dry Texas landscape, with devastating consequences. The remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2022 caused nearly US$84 billion in damage as its heavy rains caused flooding in states from Louisiana to New York.

I am a historical geographer who researches flood hazards and how communities both exacerbate the risk and respond. With the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, expected to be exceptionally busy, storms like these are a reminder to mountain communities and other inland regions across the U.S. to prepare.

Tough lessons from North Carolinas mountains

Western North Carolina provides an important case study of a hurricane season risk that might seem rare but can be catastrophic. It also shows how some communities are starting to respond.

In July 1916, the Asheville area was deluged by back-to-back tropical storms that tore apart river bridges and roads, washed away businesses and left large parts of the city under water.

The first tropical storm made landfall in Mississippi and meandered into the Southern Appalachians. As it lingered over western North Carolina, 6 to 10 inches of rain fell in the mountains, running off into creeks and then into rivers, including the French Broad.

Back-to-back tropical cyclones in 1916 left businesses in Asheville, N.C., surrounded by floodwater. Archival Photography by Steve Nicklas via NOAA

A week later, a second tropical storm moved ashore, this time in South Carolina and headed for the already saturated ground of the French Broad River basin. It dropped 12 to 15 inches near Brevard. Weather Bureau forecasters wrote that saturated soils allowed 80% to 90% of the new precipitation to run off the mountains into French Broad River tributaries.

At Asheville, the river rose to 23.1 feet  a record more than 5 feet higher than any crest before or since. The water washed out bridges and damaged most businesses and industries on the floodplain.

Dozens of people died in the flooding, and commerce was disrupted for weeks. The Santee River, which flows seaward from the Blue Ridge Mountains, destroyed some 700,000 acres of crops in South Carolina.

The French Broad River spread far beyond its banks, wiping out railroad tracks and inundating neighborhoods and factories during the storms in 1916. Archival Photography by Steve Nicklas/NOAA

Responses to the 1916 storms werent enough

After the storms, there was talk of replacing some devastated structures with flood-proof buildings. However, the importance of rail transport and the limited amount of land for commercial and industrial uses compelled reconstruction near the river. Congress approved a flood control study in 1930, but no structural protections were built. Revised building codes and land use restrictions to reduce flood impacts came much later.

Then, in September 2004, the region was hit with back-to-back tropical storm disasters again.

Hurricane Frances made landfall on Florida and eventually climbed the Blue Ridge Mountains into Western North Carolina. Remnants of the hurricane dumped 8 to 12 inches of rain near Asheville. Black Mountain received 14.6 inches, which flowed into a French Broad River tributary, triggering widespread flooding where the rivers meet. The torrent severed a water main and cut off drinking water to Asheville residents.

Remnants from Hurricanes Frances and Ivan crossed the same region of North Carolina. North Carolina Climate Office

Shortly after Frances hit, Hurricane Ivan roared ashore in Alabama and moved inland, bringing 4 to 12 more inches of rain to the French Broad basin over three days. Saturated soils on the mountain slopes lost their grip and caused numerous landslides, and portions of Asheville and Brevard flooded. Remnants of Hurricane Jeanne brought even more rain to western North Carolina a few days later.

Using the past to plan for the future isnt enough

Traditionally, officials planning for hazards like hurricanes have relied on records of past events to guide their decisions. However, this approach assumes that the climate is stable, and that just isnt the case.

As the climate warms, the air can hold more moisture, meaning tropical cyclones  as well as inland thunderstorms  can deliver more rain.

This can be particularly troublesome as giant storms move inland and cause streams and rivers to flood. Back-to-back storms can be even more destructive. New development in areas that were once unlikely to flood may be more susceptible as the climate heats up.

Heavy precipitation events are becoming more frequent and intense as temperatures rise. The numbers show the change in precipitation on the heaviest 1% rainfall days from 1958 to 2021. National Climate Assessment 2023

Some communities are starting to consider how future risk might worsen.

In the Asheville area, Buncombe Countys hazard mitigation plan now explicitly recognizes hurricane risks and acknowledges that future occurrences are likely.

Following the 2004 flood, the county modified its use of a water supply reservoir to include storage of floodwaters, and it now requires new buildings constructed in areas inundated in 2004 to be elevated 2 feet above the base flood elevation. The city of Brevard, 30 miles south of Asheville, restricted construction in flood-prone areas to limit future losses.

Asheville has created green spaces along the French Broad River and has made efforts to enlarge stormwater retention behind dams on tributaries. But altering stormwater drainage systems is costly when the existing systems were designed to meet historical rainfall levels, rather than the scale of rainfall that will accompany climate change.

Often, small mountain towns have little available land between a river and the mountains. Here, the French Broad River flows near Marshall, N.C. Nicholas Hartmann via Wikimedia, CC BY

Extreme weather events, including mountain and inland flooding, are becoming a frequent problem across the U.S., and I believe they demand greater consideration in disaster planning at all levels. For communities, preparing for these future risks requires learning from past floods but also recognizing that future storms may produce flooding that goes beyond the scale of anything seen before.

This article has been updated to correct the date of Tropical Storm Irene.

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: Craig E. Colten, Louisiana State University

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Craig E. Colten received funding from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. No direct funding supported this particular study.
Idaho State Department of Agriculture to host free pesticide disposal sites this month

The Idaho Department of Agriculture is offering free and safe disposal of unusable or unwanted pesticides at two different Idaho locations this month. (Mia Maldonado / Idaho Capital Sun)

Idaho homeowners, growers and applicators will have a free opportunity to dispose of their pesticides later this month.

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is hosting two pesticide disposal dates in August, and it will accept most pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides or anything ending with cide, according to its website.

August pesticide disposal locations:

Where: Bonneville County Transfer Station

2455 Hemmert Ave., Idaho Falls

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 27

Where: Twin Falls County Highway District

2620 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 28

According to the Idaho Department of Agriculture, there were about 148,000 points of pesticides collected in 2021, and about 125,500 pounds collected in 2022.

The department will host two other disposal opportunities in September in American Falls and Burley.

For more information about the Pesticide Disposal Program, visit the Idaho State Department of Agriculture website.

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REEDLEY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The man who died after being recovered from Reedley Beach has been identified by the Fresno County Coroners Office on Tuesday.

The Coroners Office identified the man as 23-year-old Armando Gutierrez Gomez of Dinuba.

On Aug. 1, firefighters with the Reedley Fire Department were dispatched at 7:50 pm. to Reedley Beach for a reported drowning. Upon arrival, they say they were flagged down by a bystander who located the victim underwater just south of the bridge.

UPDATE: Man pulled from Reedley Beach dies

Officers with the Reedley Police Department say Armando was pulled out of the water on the other side of the bridge by two men on a private boat who were searching the area. Armando was transported to a local hospital, but on Aug. 2, police say he was pronounced dead.

Family members on the scene said he had not been drinking alcohol and he knew how to swim.

Because of this incident, officials encourage the public to prevent future tragedies by understanding the risks of swimming in open water without first taking proper precautions.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (C) meets with Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant (L) and IDF Chief-of-Staff Herzi Halevi for a security assessment. Kobi Gideon/GPO/dpa

Military Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi said Israeli forces were at "peak readiness, both in offence and in defence," as they braced for Iran's promised retaliation for the killing of a Hamas leader on Iranian soil.

"We will know how to carry out a very rapid offensive anywhere in Lebanon, anywhere in Gaza, anywhere in the Middle East, above ground and below ground," he told members of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday.

In his remarks made at the Tel Nof Air Force Base, the IDF chief noted: "We have carried out very important operations in recent weeks, eliminating the most senior commanders of our most problematic enemies, and we are not stopping."

The Middle East has been on edge since the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in a targeted attack blamed on Israel as he visited Tehran last week.

That came on the heels of Israel killing Fuad Shukr, a top military commander with the Iranian-allied Hezbollah, who was killed in Beirut.

There is widespread expectation that an attack on Israel by Iran and its allies - like Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza and the Houthis in Yemen - is imminent. That in turn has raised fears that a strong Israeli counter-attack could spark an all-out war in the region.

Echoing similar appeals made in recent days, French President Emmanuel Macron urged Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East.

Macron called upon Pezeshkian to do everything possible to prevent further military escalation, which would benefit no one, not even Iran, and would cause lasting damage to regional stability, Macron's office, the Elysee Palace, said on Wednesday evening.

Egypt bans overnight flights over Tehran

Egypt prohibited its airlines from flying over the Iranian capital Tehran overnight.

"All Egyptian airlines should avoid flights over Tehran," a security notice from the civil aviation authority in Cairo read on Wednesday.

Plans for flights over this area will be rejected, it said. The directive applies from 0100 GMT on Thursday for three hours.

Such a notice from Egypt is "very unusual," wrote the organization OPS Group, which informs its members about risks and changes in international air traffic.

"It is possible that this is an indicator of an Iranian response to Israel, and in turn a potentially large set of airspace disruptions," the group wrote.

Earlier this week, Jordan asked all incoming aircraft to carry an additional 45 minutes of fuel in case of diversions, while a number of airlines have suspended flights to Beirut.

Organization of Islamic Cooperation denounces Haniyeh's killing

A major bloc of Muslim-majority countries meeting in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday denounced Haniyeh's killing.

Foreign ministers of member states of the 57-member Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) said it strongly condemned the assassination "and holds Israel, the illegal occupying power, fully responsible for this heinous attack."

Haniyeh's killing "constitutes a crime of aggression, a flagrant violation of international law and the UN Charter and a serious infringement of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security of the Islamic Republic of Iran," it added.

In the closing statement by the ministers who met in the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah, the OIC also condemned "the continued war crimes, aggression and genocide committed by Israel" in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

Haniyeh's replacement praised by Hezbollah and the Houthis

Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah organization congratulated Yehya al-Sinwar after he was named on Tuesday as Haniyeh's successor for the top Hamas post.

Al-Sinwar had previously been the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, where he has eluded Israeli forces for the past 10 months of war. He was one of the masterminds of the October 7 attacks on southern Israel that left some 1,200 people dead.

Al-Sinwar's appointment as head of the organization's political bureau was proof of Israel's failure, Hezbollah said in a statement.

With al-Sinwar's appointment, Hamas was also sending a "strong message" to Israel and its allies, since Hamas was united in its decisions and remained steadfast. It was "continuing on the path of resistance and struggle," Hezbollah said.

Meanwhile, the Houthi rebels in Yemen and Hamas allies also congratulated al-Sinwar.

A spokesman for the militia said on X that the Houthis prayed that al-Sinwar would receive divine support to fulfil his responsibilities in this historic phase in the confrontation with Israel.
Gov. JB Pritzker signed multiple bills expanding reproductive rights in Illinois on Wednesday, including codifying a federal law that allows medical professionals to perform an abortion in response to a clinical emergency.

Another bill bolsters Illinois interstate shield law that prohibits Illinois authorities from disclosing information, or using resources, to abet any interstate investigation into someone receiving abortion services within Illinois. The final bill signed prohibits discrimination against people for their reproductive health decisions, including abortion, in vitro fertilization and fertility treatment.

Following the U.S. Supreme Courts decision in 2022 that overturned Roe v. Wade, states have had greater authority to curtail abortion access. States with Democratic majorities, like Illinois, have sought to enact more protections for abortion and other reproductive health services, while Republican-led states have moved to impose bans or limitations on the procedure.

One federal law Illinois lawmakers sought to codify in case it is struck down is the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, or EMTALA, which allows practitioners to perform abortions in medical emergencies. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a case against EMTALA in June, although it could come back before the high court once it advances further in the lower courts.

Pritzker at the time called the high courts decision a small respite, but he said it was also important to be proactive as a state in case of any further U.S. Supreme Court rulings.

We cant wait around and be reactive when the latest attacks come, the pro-choice majority in this country need to be proactive, Pritzker said. The three bills that I am signing today send a single, straightforward message: Illinois will always be a place where women have the freedom to make their own medical decisions.

Chief sponsor of the EMTALA-codification bill, Rep. Dagmara Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, said the realities of medical emergencies are distant from the clashes of partisan politics.

We recognize that a medical emergency like this knows no politics, Avelar said. A person in crisis deserves care, not controversy.

The bill also allows the Department of Public Health to investigate potential violations where medical practitioners fail to provide stabilizing treatment and issue fines at a minimum of $50,000.

Dr. Allison Cowett, medical director at Family Planning Associates Medical Group in Chicago, said her clinic is seeing more than double the number of out-of-state patients as compared to 2022.

I will take care of patients from as close by as our West Loop neighborhood and as far away as Texas, border towns and the southern part of Florida, she said.

Cowett maligned the situation for people experiencing unsafe or unwanted pregnancies in states where abortion is illegal.

Some patients share their stories with me, they share their rage about what forced them to come to Illinois for basic medical care, she said. They were turned away because providers are afraid of criminalization and prosecution for even discussing abortion with a patient. This is not what health care is supposed to be.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul said Illinois protections will help people in nearby states that have enacted abortion restrictions.

We have Indiana with a near abortion ban  near-total abortion ban, Missouri banning abortions without exception for rape and incest, Kentucky the same, and Iowas recently enacted six-week ban, Raoul said. That is horrific, but it lifts us up as a safe haven.

Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said the laws passed are about expanding the states ability to take in more people seeking reproductive health care.

Today is both beautiful and dumbfounding. As Gov. Pritzker protects doctors and empowers Illinois families, the governor of Iowa just signed a fetal heartbeat bill that will push Iowans into our home for health, Stratton said, also adding, We have to stretch our capacity to provide care, not just for the women of Illinois, but for all women in the Midwest and beyond.
CHICAGO  In a strongly worded public rebuke of another elected government official in Illinois, Gov. JB Pritzker and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton have called on a downstate sheriff to resign over his handling of the death of Sonya Massey, who was shot and killed by one of his deputies.

The states Democratic leaders said Republican Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell should have taken his leadership role more seriously in a release issued several hours after the governor said on Tuesday that he was disappointed at the answers Campbell had given as to why the deputy who killed Massey was hired.

The sheriff has failed, Pritzker said at an unrelated news conference Wednesday. He has failed to explain how he ended up hiring this deputy sheriff who has been fired from other departments, he failed to put forward reforms that clearly need to be made  And still has failed to meet with the Massey family.

While Pritzker said failing to meet with the family was not necessarily a fireable offense, he added that it just seems outrageous to me. At a minimum, listen to them, hear them, and then, hopefully, take action.

The statement from Pritzker and Stratton said Campbell has had ample opportunity to respond with conviction and purpose to questions about his hiring of Deputy Sean Grayson, who was fired over the Massey killing and has been charged with murder.

Pritzker and Stratton noted that they had met with Masseys family and made a commitment to support them in working for justice.

We join the Massey family in calling for Sheriff Campbells resignation immediately so the Springfield and Sangamon County community can begin to rebuild and restore trust between citizens and the sheriffs department, the statement said.

Campbell issued a lengthy response Wednesday morning reiterating his determination to stay in office and questioning the motivation behind calls for him to step down.

Calls for my resignation are nothing more than political maneuvering during a tragic event and only hurt the good citizens of Sangamon County, Campbell said.

I was overwhelmingly elected to lead the Sheriffs Office through both good times and bad. I am fully prepared to continue leading my office and serving the residents of Sangamon County through this difficult period, ensuring we learn from this tragedy and work toward a better future.

Campbell also said he has made four requests to meet with the Massey family through intermediaries, but those requests have been rejected or not accepted.

Without being specific, Campbell also indicated that his office thinks the shooting was wrong.  All employees of the Sheriffs Office feel betrayed by one of their own, he said. The one responsible is in jail and will never work in law enforcement again.

Masseys killing has led to protests in Springfield, Chicago and across the country and renewed a national conversation over the use of deadly force by police against Black people.

The Sangamon County sheriffs office was the sixth Illinois police department Grayson had worked for in less than four years. Before he went into law enforcement, Grayson had two DUIs on his record in nearby Macoupin County.

Records show before the Sangamon County sheriffs office hired Grayson last year, the office spoke with some of the law enforcement agencies that previously employed him and those agencies questioned his abilities as an officer, saying he needed more training.

Grayson was dating the daughter of one of his references, a former Sangamon County sheriffs deputy who spoke positively of him.

In statements released last week, Campbell defended the process for hiring Grayson and downplayed comments from previous employers saying Grayson needed more training.

This is not unusual for deputies with Graysons experience, and is standard procedure for Sangamon County deputies, Campbell said. Grayson was subsequently sent to a 16-week academy training, a requirement for all new and lateral transfer deputies in our office.

In his statement on Wednesday, Campbell said his office is willing to modify our hiring practices in order to prevent an incident like this from occurring again.

We have used a process that we believe was consistent with statewide standards. If these standards are deficient, we would advocate a change at all necessary levels, he said.

Deputies on July 6 responded to a 911 call about a possible prowler outside Masseys home in an unincorporated area outside of Springfield. When Grayson, who is white, and another deputy officer arrived, Massey, who was Black, took a few minutes to answer the door and appeared confused. Her family has said she had mental health issues.

The two officers said they didnt find anyone around her home. Inside, a conversation ensued over a pot of boiling water on Masseys stove.

According to body camera footage, Massey said, Oh, Ill rebuke you in the name of Jesus, before Grayson angrily replied, You better (expletive) not. I swear to God. Ill (expletive) shoot you right in your (expletive) face.

Grayson then demanded that Massey drop the pot before shooting her. The Sangamon County coroners office said she died of a gunshot wound to the head.

Grayson was ordered held in custody about two weeks after the shooting. He has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct.

In 2021, Pritzker signed into law a sweeping criminal justice reform measure, known as the SAFE-T Act, which included a provision meant to improve the states police officer decertification process. While theres no indication the law will be changed further in light of Masseys killing, Illinois legislative leaders have indicated theyre open to proposals.

On Wednesday, Pritzker praised the Illinois State Police who did the investigation (of Masseys shooting) in a very short 10 days.

Maybe the silver lining, if there is a silver lining in this, is that someone is being held accountable, and yet we have much more to do, he said.

____
CHICAGO  Gov. JB Pritzker on Tuesday said hes disappointed with the answers hes hearing from a downstate sheriff over why his agency hired the deputy who shot and killed 36-year-old Sonya Massey in her Springfield-area home.

The shooting of Massey last month by former Sangamon County sheriffs Deputy Sean Grayson has led to protests in Springfield, Chicago and across the country and renewed a national conversation over the use of deadly force by police against Black people.

Grayson has been fired and charged with murder in Masseys killing, and the U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the shooting.

At an unrelated news conference on Tuesday, Pritzker criticized the information being released about the shooting from Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, who at a public meeting in Springfield last week said his office failed Sonyas family and friends but that he wouldnt resign.

The way in which this deputy sheriff was hired, the background, should have been  taken into account. The way he was hired is an enormous question mark that still needs to be made transparent. How did the sheriff end up hiring this person, must have known their background, must have, Pritzker said, without naming Campbell.

I mean, no one hires somebody without checking out the hirees background, and so I have a lot of questions, and Im so far disappointed with the answers that Im hearing from the sheriff, the governor said. But I think that the community is reacting the way that I think is appropriate, protesting, making their voice heard, asking for change.

The Sangamon County sheriffs office was the sixth Illinois police department Grayson had worked for in less than four years, according to records from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. Court records also show that in the last decade, but before he went into law enforcement, Grayson has two DUIs on his record in nearby Macoupin County.

Campbell on Tuesday did not respond to a request for comment on Pritzkers remarks.

Included in Graysons personnel records provided by the Kincaid Police Department, where he worked part time, is a document showing that he was discharged from military service for serious misconduct. The Associated Press, citing a U.S. official who spoke on the condition of anonymity, reported that one of Graysons DUIs led to his discharge from the Army in 2016.

When Grayson applied to be a Sangamon County sheriffs deputy, a psychologist who evaluated him said the job candidate appears to be a suitable fit for the position and likes structure and routines. But the psychologist also said Grayson scored low on the cognitive assessment.

It will take him longer to learn, process and apply new material when compared to others, the psychologist indicated.

Records also show the Sangamon County sheriffs office spoke with other law enforcement agencies in the Springfield area where Grayson had worked, and that those agencies questioned his abilities as an officer.

A co-worker of Graysons at the Logan County sheriffs office indicated that Grayson is a good deputy but he believes he needs more extensive training, according to the records.

One of Graysons references, according to the records, was a former Sangamon County deputy whose daughter is dating Grayson. The former deputy highly recommended Grayson, describing him as a mellow, non-confrontational person who has good communication skills.

In statements released last week, Campbell addressed Graysons hiring.

Normally, I seek such references and give more credence to those from individuals I trust and know to have integrity, Campbell said. Their insights are invaluable in making informed hiring decisions.

Campbell also downplayed comments from prior employers saying Grayson needed more training.

This is not unusual for deputies with Graysons experience, and is standard procedure for Sangamon County deputies, Campbell said. Grayson was subsequently sent to a 16-week academy training, a requirement for all new and lateral transfer deputies in our office.

According to the records, Campbell also said that no other law enforcement agency reported problems with Grayson before we hired him, though during his time with the Logan County sheriffs office, in 2022, Grayson got into a high-speed chase in the city of Lincoln before hitting a deer. According to one of his supervisors, Grayson failed to show due caution while driving through stop intersections.

The records showed that supervisor interviewed Grayson after the incident and indicated there were discrepancies between Graysons report and the video, and recommended more training.

Deputies on July 6 responded to a 911 call about a possible prowler outside Masseys home in an unincorporated area outside of Springfield. When Grayson, who is white, and another deputy officer arrived, Massey, who is Black, took a few minutes to answer the door and appeared confused. The two officers said they had not found anyone around her home. Inside, a conversation ensued over a pot of boiling water on Masseys stove.

According to body camera footage, Massey said, Oh, Ill rebuke you in the name of Jesus, before Grayson angrily replied, You better (expletive) not. I swear to God. Ill (expletive) shoot you right in your (expletive) face.

Grayson pointed his gun at her, asking her to drop the pot of water. Massey said Im sorry and ducked, according to the footage, and Grayson soon after fired three shots at her. According to the Sangamon County coroner, Massey, whose family indicated she had mental health issues, died of a gunshot wound to the head.

Grayson was ordered detained in custody about two weeks after the shooting. He pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct.

_____
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker stands with other officials during a security briefing at the U.S. Secret Service's Chicago Field Office on July 25, 2024, in Chicago. AP Photo/Erin Hooley

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D) on Wednesday called for the sheriff of Sangamon County to resign after one of his deputies fatally shot Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, last month.

Pritzker said Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell had not adequately explained why he hired ex-deputy Sean Grayson, who had worked at six departments in four years. The governor also noted that Campbell has not introduced reforms in his department after the shooting and said it was inexcusable that Campbell hadnt met with Masseys family.

Grayson, 30, killed Massey last month inside her home while she was handling a pot of water. He was charged with first-degree murder, official misconduct and aggravated battery with a weapon on July 17. Campbell fired Grayson from the department the same day.

A full month has passed since the murder of Sonya Massey. In that time Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell has had ample opportunity to respond with conviction and purpose to questions about his hiring of the perpetrator, Deputy Sheriff Sean Grayson, and about reforms he would propose for his department to avoid this from happening again, Pritzker said in a statement. The community remains in fear that calling the Sheriffs Office when they feel endangered will lead to another murder of an innocent resident.

Rather than waiting for others to propose reform of the Sangamon County Sheriffs Office, Sheriff Campbell should have taken his leadership role more seriously, the governors statement continued.

In his own statement on Wednesday afternoon, Campbell pushed back, calling Pritzkers comments political maneuvering during a tragic event. He said that all deputies in the sheriffs office feel betrayed by one of their own and that he had requested to meet with Masseys family on four separate occasions.

The sheriffs office is willing to modify our hiring practices in order to prevent an incident like this from occurring again. However, before changes can be made, it is important to identify the problem, Campbell said.

We have used a process that we believe is consistent with statewide standards. If these standards are deficient, we would advocate a change at all necessary levels.

On July 6, Grayson and another deputy responded to Masseys home after an emergency call about a possible prowler. Body-camera footage shows the two deputies questioning Massey outside of her home before eventually entering and asking for her identification.

Once inside her home, according to the footage, Grayson told Massey to turn off the stove because he did not want a fire to start. When Massey went into the kitchen to turn it off, she picked up a pot of water that had been on the burner. The other deputy moved backward, and Massey asked him what he was doing.

The deputy said he was moving away from her hot and steaming water, and stepped back.

I rebuke you in the name of Jesus, Massey said.

The deputy appeared confused, and she repeated her statement. Grayson then drew his weapon and threatened to shoot her. You better fucking not, or I swear to God, Ill shoot you in your motherfucking face, Grayson told Massey while putting his hand on his weapon.

Massey, still in the kitchen, said sorry and crouched down with the pot in her hand. Grayson fired three shots from the living room.

Campbell told CBS News that Grayson had all the training he needed and just didnt use it.

This was a rogue individual that acted outside the scope of his authority, he told the outlet.

Audio released last week indicates that Masseys mother, Donna Massey, called 911 the day before the shooting and reported that her daughter had been suffering from mental health issues.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Insurance companies will soon be required to cover any fertility treatments that expectant parents gets recommended by their doctors.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed into law Friday a guarantee starting in 2026 that insurance companies must cover all infertility treatments for patients recommended to them by a doctor, instead of only covering them after requiring them to complete different treatments that are deemed ineffective by their doctor.

Illinois grocery tax to end in 2026

State Senator Michael E. Hastings said in a release that the law he sponsored will help pave the way for Illinois families to get the treatment they need.

Without in vitro fertilization, I wouldnt be the proud father I am today, Hastings (D-Frankfort) said. I have felt the all-too-common stress and heartbreak of infertility. Its past time to take bureaucracy out of health care.

Hastings said the law was inspired by a constituent whose doctor recommended IVF, but their insurance provider would only cover the treatment if they completed other procedures first.

While many states across the nation are working to restrict peoples ability to make their own family planning choices, Illinois is remaining a leader in protecting this type of care, said Hastings. No person should be denied having a family due to archaic laws.

Also in the law is requiring insurance companies to provide coverage for an annual menopause appointment. That requirement will also go into effect in 2026.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  The Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD) said Wednesday that it arrested a man from Illinois in connection to a gold bar scheme that targeted elderly people.

In early March 2024, MCPD said a woman reported that a person who said he was with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) said she was a victim of identity theft which led to a federal investigation that included drugs and money laundering.

She was directed to transfer all of her assets into gold bars, which would be picked up by an FBI Agent to take to the Department of Treasury for safekeeping.

California man helped steal more than $789K in gold from elderly woman, Montgomery County police say

The woman made two separate deliveries of gold bars to the couriers, worth over $789,000, according to MCPD.

The first courier was identified as 23-year-old Neel Patel of Illinois. During that trip, he picked up gold bars worth over $331,000 from the woman, detectives said.

Detectives arrested Wenhui Sun back in March for his involvement as the second courier.

On July 23, Patel was arrested at Chicago OHare International Airport at about 11 p.m. as he attempted to board a flight to Dublin, Ireland. He was extradited to Maryland on Monday.

He is being held at the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit, where he awaits a bond hearing.

Montgomery County crews rescue person clinging to rock in Potomac River

This is the latest incident in a string of arrests related to gold bar schemes.

On July 16, police said they arrested a man from New York for demanding an 82-year-old woman transfer her assets into gold bars over to him or Russia would take her money.

Then, on July 25, an Owings Mills man was arrested in connection to conning an elderly man into buying $1.1 million in gold bars.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO)  On Tuesday, Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation that makes it easier for Illinois inmates to get state IDs again after being released from prison.

The amendment to the Illinois ID Card Act allows incarcerated individuals, who did not have an Illinois identification card, to submit the required information to get one to the Secretary of State prior to their release.

Lack of identification is an all-too-common barrier for individuals exiting the criminal justice system to reenter the world, said Gov. JB Pritzker. These are individuals who have served their time and paid their debt to society. Rather than closing them off to the rest of the world, this legislation is about empowering them to make their own choices about their future.

Pritzers wife, First Lady MK Pritzker, has been an advocate for the rights of Illinois prisoners.

My focus since my first visit to an Illinois detention center in 2019 has been ensuring incarcerated individuals are treated with respect and dignity, she said.

That change will quicken the process for them to open bank accounts, apply for housing, and find employment once released.

Black, Hispanic, and low-income individuals are less likely to have a government-issued photo ID, placing a disproportionate burden to accessing state resources on these communities, the Governors Office said in a statement.

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Images of Ukraine's new F-16s and their weapons hint at what the US-made fighter jets may start off doing against the Russians

Ukraine finally got its first batch of American-made F-16 fighter jets from NATO.

An official video and photos show the new F-16s armed with only air-to-air missiles.

The loadout offers insight into what the F-16s may initially be tasked with.

American-made F-16 fighter jets are at last flying above Ukraine, and some of the first images of the planes and their missile loadouts hint at what their starting mission may be.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy published the first official imagery of the F-16s in action on Sunday, calling their arrival a "new phase of development" for the country's air force. Until now, Kyiv had been operating only an aging assortment of Soviet fighter jets.

Hype aside, top US generals, Ukrainian officials, and experts have cautioned that the decades-old F-16 won't necessarily be a game changer. It faces a difficult operating environment of Russian warplanes and sophisticated air-defense systems, and Kyiv simply won't have enough aircraft to make a substantial impact.

That said, depending on its weapons configuration, the F-16 can still be quite effective in certain roles. One video published by Zelenskyy on Sunday hints at what missions the new fighter jets could be flying against the Russians early on.

Shooting down missiles and more

The video shows a Ukrainian F-16 armed with the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile, known as the AMRAAM, and the AIM-9 missile. Other imagery has shown the jets in this configuration as well.

We are now in a new phase of development for the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. We have done a lot to transition the Ukrainian Air Force to a new aviation standard  Western combat aviation. From the beginning of this war, we have been talking with our partners about pic.twitter.com/z21yTU0Hjo  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) August 4, 2024

This particular loadout, which doesn't include any air-to-ground munitions, suggests Ukraine may initially use its F-16s in an air-to-air role, as opposed to close-air support (CAS) or suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses (SEAD/DEAD) missions.

Some airpower experts identified the AIM-120 seen in the video and other images as an AIM-120B, specifically a CATM-120B, which is an inert training weapon intended to reflect the real deal.

The AIM-120 is an all-weather, beyond-visual-range missile with active radar that makes it less dependent on the aircraft, but it comes in different variants with different ranges and capabilities.

Ukrainian officials have previously signaled that it could get the newest AIM-120Ds, which have a greater range than the older versions. But experts have speculated that given the risk of them falling into Russian hands, this is unlikely. They've said it's possible Kyiv could get or even already has the C variant.

The other weapon visible in the F-16 imagery from Ukraine, the AIM-9 Sidewinder, is a supersonic, short-range air-to-air missile that first entered service in the 1950s. Though it's an older system, it's regarded as highly successful.

A Ukrainian F-16 at an undisclosed location in Ukraine on Sunday. REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko

Ukraine has the AIM-9M, a variant with a range of 10 miles, which appears to be what's in the video. The Wall Street Journal reported last week that Ukraine would get the newest AIM-9X variant.

If the Ukrainian air forces were to get their hands on the AIM-120D and AIM-9X, the country's F-16s could fly with the most advanced US air-to-air missiles, giving them an improved air combat capability.

Next to the air-to-air missiles on the F-16s are self-defense Pylon Integrated Dispensing System Plus (PIDS+) systems, which have sensors that can help the jets detect incoming threats such as enemy missiles.

The air-to-air missiles seen at the unveiling of Ukraine's new F-16 fighter suggest "an initial focus on internal air defence sorties against Shahed/Geran one-way attack drones and cruise missiles," Justin Bronk, an airpower and technology expert at the Royal United Services Institute think tank in London, noted in a post on X.

And Peter Layton, another RUSI expert, told The Kyiv Independent that such a mission would make sense given Ukraine's current F-16 fleet size. He explained that "with only 10 [jets]  so say seven available daily for operations  using [them] for air defense against cruise missiles and Shahed drones seems reasonable."

Fighting other aircraft

A screengrab from Volodymyr Zelenskyy's videos shows, from left to right, the AIM-120 missile, the AIM-9 missile, and the PIDS+ system. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy/Screengrab via X

With the air-to-air capabilities observed so far, the Ukrainians could also attempt to use its F-16s to target the Su-34 fighter-bombers dropping fearsome glide bombs or combat aircraft such as the MiG-31 or Su-35, but reach and Russian tactics make doing so a challenge.

Some Russian aircraft release munitions and then immediately pull away, making them harder to engage. For other aircraft, Ukraine would probably need to put its F-16s within reach of long-range Russian air-to-air missiles, such as the R-37, as well as its ground-based air-defense systems.

Vincent Aiello, a former US naval aviator who flew the F-16, said that even though Russia operated formidable jets backed by tough defenses, Ukraine could still find ways to engage those successfully.

It's not always about the plane. "You can come up with tactics  whether it's speed, altitude, deception, jamming, whatever  where you can still have an advantage and hopefully knock out the enemy aircraft," he told Business Insider.

Ukraine's military leadership has signaled, though, that it doesn't intend to put its new fighters, of which there's only a limited supply, at great risk.

Ukrainian F-16s in an undisclosed location in Ukraine on Sunday. REUTERS/Valentyn Ogirenko

Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, the country's new top general, told The Guardian earlier this month that the arrival of the F-16s would help strengthen Ukraine's air defenses. These have been greatly strained throughout the war. But he said Ukraine wouldn't want them too close to the front lines, where they'd be at greater risk of being shot down.

A dynamic fighter

While Zelenskyy's video and the other images have shown Ukraine's F-16s with only air-to-air missiles, that doesn't necessarily mean the fighter jets will just be used for air engagements. Ukraine can also use them in an air-to-ground role, specifically targeting Russian air-defense systems, but these are much riskier, more-complex operations.

Ukraine already has US-provided AGM-88 HARM missiles, or high-speed anti-radiation missiles, that can hunt down radar systems. Kyiv previously jury-rigged them on its Soviet-era aircraft, but they'll be more effective when fired from an F-16.

Mike Torrealday, a retired US Air Force colonel who flew combat operations in the Middle East with the F-16, called the fighter jet a "very capable airplane."

"It can do all roles that are required, from surface attack, to air-to-air, to maritime attack, to any of that stuff," he told BI.

A Ukrainian F-16 taking off from an undisclosed location in a photo shared by Zelenskyy on Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy via X

"I think the strength that they're gaining is just the versatility of the airplane," he said of Ukraine and its newly acquired multi-role fighter. "And as I think we've seen, the Ukrainians are very versatile at applying all kinds of emerging technologies into existing systems or just creating whole new ones."

Aiello said that while the F-16 brought an increased capability to Ukraine's existing fleet, there was likely to be a learning curve because the country was so used to its Soviet fighters.

So far, Ukraine's F-16s appear to have flown in only ceremonial roles, as they did during a flyover on Sunday in a video shared by the country's air force. It's unclear when the jets will be used in combat.

At tens of millions of dollars apiece, F-16s are quite costly, and Ukraine doesn't have many to expend. Kyiv is likely to be more risk-averse with its fighters, especially as it waits for more of them to arrive, but there's always the possibility of a bold play.

For now, though, the long-awaited arrival of the fighters in Ukraine is likely to provide the country with a critical morale boost as its forces continue to defend against the grueling Russian invasion.

"We have made possible what was our ambition, our defense need," Zelenskyy said on Sunday. "Now the F-16s are a reality, a reality in our skies."

Read the original article on Business Insider
A new immersive, virtual experience into Hawaiis past is available in Honolulu

HONOLULU (KHON2)  The Bishop Museum is unveiling an exciting new virtual exhibit that takes visitors deep into the rich history of Hawaii.

The Healer Stones of Kapaemahu exhibition brings to life the story of four extraordinary individuals who were honored with the placement of four large stones on Waikiki Beach.

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These individuals, known as mahu, possessed dual male and female spirits and were celebrated for their healing arts, which they brought from Tahiti to Hawaii.

The Healer Stones of Kapaemahu Exhibit

The Healer Stones of Kapaemahu exhibition, housed in the Castle Memorial Building, offers visitors an immersive experience. The main gallery features life-size renderings of the stones and the spirits they honor.

Visitors can watch an animated film that tells the captivating story of these stones and the mahu healers. Following the film, guests enter a room with enormous projection screens that provide a visual history of the site and its significance.

This exhibit is not only a journey through time but also an educational experience. It sheds light on the holistic healing beliefs and practices of Hawaiians, who view the body, mind, and spirit as interconnected.

The exhibition includes displays of laau lapaau (herbal medicines) and 19th-century lomilomi (massage) implements, highlighting traditional Hawaiian healing methods.

A new virtual experience

Recognizing the importance of making this history accessible to all, the Bishop Museum has launched an immersive virtual tour of the Healer Stones of Kapaemahu exhibit.

This 360-degree tour can be accessed on mobile devices and desktop computers, allowing a global audience to explore the past and contemporary meanings of these significant stones.

The virtual tour, developed in collaboration with Lei Pua Ala Queer Histories of Hawaii, offers multiple entry points for users.

Whether you prefer a brief overview or a deep dive into the extensive scholarly resources, the tour caters to different interests and levels of engagement.

It features a rich collection of objects, archival materials, photos, videos, and animations that tell the story of Hawaiis traditions of healing, diversity and inclusion.

Preserving Hawaiis queer histories

KHON2.com recently spoke with Dean Hamer, Vice President of Sustainable Energy Solutions at Pono Pacific, and Joe Wilson, co-director of Lei Pua Ala, to discuss their efforts to document and preserve Hawaiis queer histories.

Hamer and Wilson, filmmakers and historians, have dedicated their work to uncovering and sharing stories of gender and sexual diversity in Hawaii.

Their project, Lei Pua Ala, aims to collect and preserve stories that reflect the diverse makeup of kanaka maoli (Native Hawaiians) and other communities in Hawaii.

One of their significant projects includes the story of the Kapaemahu Stones, which has been brought to life through a childrens book, an animated film, and now the Bishop Museum exhibit.

Hamer explained.

One of the things we realized as we were working on [Kapaemahu] is that Hawaii has a very unique history for queer and mahu and aikane people different than in other places in the world. We were interested in that to understand how that occurred and because we also think its something that people in Hawaii and the rest of the world really can learn a lot from. Its a really special history; its different. And its important to know how Hawaii became the place that it is today.  Dean Hamer

Impact and importance

The Kapaemahu Stones story highlights the importance of visibility and representation.

Our work in bringing that story back to life revealed that when people have the opportunity to see themselves represented, particularly in their own community, as valued members of their community, it is incredibly impactful in a number of ways, Hamer added.

The project aims to prevent the erasure of segments of Hawaiis history that celebrate and honor the diverse makeup of its people.

By rejecting Euro-centric constructs that often overlook native experiences, the project hopes to bring forward stories that offer hope and reflect the multicultural and pluralistic society of contemporary Hawaii.

Call to action

Wilson and Hamer are actively seeking contributions from the community. They encourage anyone with stories of Hawaiis queer history to contact them to ensure these histories are not lost.

Our initial research is starting to bring some of those stories forward, and thats what were excited to share in many different ways, Hamer said.

You can explore the Healer Stones of Kapaemahu virtual tour and learn more about Lei Pua Ala Queer Histories of Hawaii by visiting the Bishop Museums website. If you have stories to share or know someone who does, Wilson and Hamer are eager to hear from you.

Click here for more information on the immersive virtual tour available at Bishop Museum.

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8

This exhibit and the ongoing work of Lei Pua Ala provide a unique opportunity to connect with Hawaiis rich and diverse history, ensuring that these important stories are preserved for future generations.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD)  A local blood center is doing its part to support those in need of blood donations after Hurricane Debby hit Florida earlier this week.

ImpactLife, a nonprofit that collects and distributes donated blood for parts of central Illinois and other states, answered the call after the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps was activated on Monday. Ten shipments of O-positive and six shipments of O-negative blood were donated to help those affected by the storms.

BERC was established in 2021 to form an emergency blood reserve that could be used when there is a sudden increase in the need for blood. Blood Centers that are part of BERC go on call once every three weeks and are prepared to transport blood to areas in critical need.

Not a drill: Red Cross declares blood shortage emergency

When Hurricane Debby hit Florida Monday, winds and rain canceled several blood drives and donation appointments which created the need.

We are grateful to our BERC partners and especially to the volunteer blood donors who make it possible for blood providers to assist in this crisis, Nelson Hellwig, BERC administrator, said. The advance planning and mutual support we have developed is helping meet immediate needs in the region and will make a difference for those affected by Hurricane Debby.

Kirby Winn is the Public Relations Manager for ImpactLife, and said we often take the availability of blood for granted. He said a similar situation could easily happen in the Midwest.

What if we had a tornado or something really big that hit a major area, that would have an impact on our blood supply and the ability to move blood around where it needs to be. So, its good to know that we would have that outside support from the BERC network, he said.

The O-positive and O-negative blood donations will be going to the SunCoast Blood Centers, which will be distributing blood to hospitals in need. ImpactLife was one of 11 blood centers that were on call to provide the donations.

In an emergency, its critical to have a sufficient supply of blood components available at a moments notice, Don Campbell, chief operating officer of SunCoast Blood Centers, said. Support from Blood Emergency Readiness Corps ensures our ability to continue providing this lifesaving resource for hospitals in our region in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Debby.

This was the eighth time the readiness corps had been activated to provide blood during an emergency.

Winn added that ImpactLife typically does not ship blood outside of their region unless in an emergency like this one. Due to the loss of emergency reserves, the organization is asking for more donations.

He said that donors will receive a voucher to redeem for a gift card, donor rewards points, or a donation to Make-a-wish chapters in Iowa and Illinois.

You can schedule a donation on their website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com.
ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  The first day of school for Rowan-Salisbury Schools and Stanly County Schools has been canceled, officials announced on Wednesday.

Kids were supposed to go back on Thursday, Aug. 8, but due to the incoming weather from Tropical Storm Debby, that will not happen, officials said. Thursday is now an optional workday for staff in Rowan-Salisbury Schools.

Tracking: Flood Watches in effect as Tropical Storm Debby gets closer to Charlotte area

RSS will make its decision for Friday, Aug. 9 by 3 p.m. on Thursday. Meanwhile, Stanly County will not have school on Thursday AND Friday, pushing its first day to Monday, Aug. 12.

We appreciate the collaboration with local weather experts and emergency outlets in making this decision for our students & staff, Rowan-Salisbury School System said.

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iPhone and iPad users, CLICK HERE.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
The primary results from Kitsap County Auditor updated on Tuesday night show incumbent candidates moving on to November's general election in each legislative district that includes Kitsap County voters. Democrats lead in bids to return to Olympia in the 23rd District, while incumbent Republicans will advance in the 35th. The 26th District will see at least one new candidate, and one incumbent advanced to retain a House seat.

The election results will be updated by the Kitsap County Auditor's Office on Wednesday, and the election is scheduled to be certified on August 20.

More primary results: Fire measures passing, Republicans lead primary for Kitsap County commissioner

23rd District House: Nance, Simmons look to retain positions

Current 23rd District State Rep. Greg Nance and Republican candidate Jamie Miles are leading in the primary for the 23rd District State Representative Position 2, according to Tuesday's preliminary result. Nance, a Democrat, received 9,288 votes, or 46.17% of the votes, followed by Miles (5,990 votes, 29.77%).

The other two candidates, Brynn Felix and John Gibbons  both Democrats  are unlikely to advance as more votes are counted. Felix got 3,776 votes (18.77%) and Gibbons received 1,055 votes (5.24%) as of Tuesday night.

Nance, of Bainbridge Island, is the current 23rd District State Representative. He was appointed to the position last year after state Rep. Drew Hanson was appointed to fill the state senate position formerly held by Christine Rolfes.

Miles is a pain management and addiction medicine specialist with no experience holding an elected office before.

The 23rd Legislative District encompasses northern Kitsap County up to Hansville, including Bainbridge Island.

More: Election 2024: Four vying for 23rd District House position held by Nance

In the district's second race for a House position, incumbent Democratic Rep. Tarra Simmons and Republican Kurt Robertson will move on to complete for Position 1.

Simmons received 12,436 votes, or 61.68% of the votes as of Tuesday night, which was way more than the 6,224 votes (30.87%) supporting Robertson, according to Washington Secretary of State. Simmons has represented the 23rd district since 2021. Her challenger, Robertson is a military veteran and an Adjunct business faculty at the University of Washington, Western Washington University, and Olympic College.

Independent candidate Tiffany Attrill received 7.4% (1,492 votes) as of Tuesday evening.

More: Election 2024: Rep. Simmons draws 2 challengers in Washington 23rd District primary

23rd District Senate: Hansen, Byrd move ahead

Democrat incumbent Sen. Drew Hansen led the race to retain his Senate seat with 67.57%, or 13,618 votes. Republican Lance Byrd will become his challenger in the general election, with 28.34%, or 5,712 votes.

The third candidate, Republican Ace Haynes, received 4.05% (816 votes).

More: Election 2024: Hansen looks to retain appointed Senate seat in Washington's 23rd District

26th District House: Caldier, Mitchell lead the 26th District Position 2 race

Democratic candidate Tiffiny Mitchell will likely be the challenger to incumbent Rep. Michelle Caldier (Republican), who emerged Tuesday leading in her bid to return to the 26th Legislative District's Position 2.

Caldier led with 34.87% of the votes (8,836), followed by Mitchell at 29.86% (7,565).

Coming in third was Republican Rachel Harter with 17.16% (4,348 votes), followed by Democrat Lori McPherson (10.98%, 2,781) and Josh Smith (7.05%, 1,786) who listed no party preference.

The 26th Legislative District stretches from a section of Bremerton through South Kitsap and across the Pierce County city of Gig Harbor.

More: Election 2024: Five candidates aim for 26th District position held by Caldier

In the district's other House seat, Democrat candidate Adison Richards is leading the race for Position 1 as of Tuesday night. Richards received 49.44% (12,638 votes), while Republican Jesse Young, former representative for the district, got 35.25% of the votes (9,010).

The third candidate, Republican Jim Henderson, got 15.22% (3,891), according to Washington Secretary of State. Current Republican Rep. Spencer Hutchins didn't run for re-election this year.

More: Election 2024: Three candidates up for House seat opening in 26th District

35th District: Couture, DeHart look to advance

For the 35th Legislative District Position 2 race, the number of votes for the two leading candidates was close as of Tuesday.

Current State Rep. Travis Couture (Republican) got 45.3%, or 11,325 votes, while Democrat candidate James DeHart received 43.72% of the votes (10,930 votes). The margin between the two top candidates was 395 votes as of Tuesday night, according to Washington Secretary of State.

The third candidate, Republican Eric Onisko, received 2,712 votes (10.85%).

The district's other House seat, currently held by Dan Griffey, will remain constant. Griffey is running unopposed and received 17,444 votes, or 92.3 percent.

The 35th Legislative District includes Mason County, western Kitsap County, and western Thurston County.

More: Election 2024: Primary challengers emerge in Washington's 35th District for Couture

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: WA Primary results: Legislative races in Kitsap, Mason, Pierce County
Adam Leitman Bailey, Donald Trump and Judge Arthur Engoron (Adam Leitman Bailey, Copyrighted free use, via Wikimedia Commons, Getty)

It all started very innocently, when the real estate lawyer Adam Leitman Bailey inadvertently walked into a hornets nest.

The Feb. 16 TV spot, on NBC New York, was about Donald Trumps trial, at which Judge Arthur Engoron had just slapped Trump with a $355 million penalty and a three-year ban on doing business in New York. In a comment to the NBC reporter that was not used in the segment, Bailey mentioned that three weeks earlier he had seen the judge at the courthouse, dashed over and began discussing the case.

I walked over and we started talking  I wanted him to know what I think and whyI really want him to get it right, Bailey said.

Problem: Judges are forbidden from discussing cases without all of the parties involved present.

Bailey later clarified that he was just discussing the law at the heart of the case, not the case itself, and that he believed the interview had ended and he was off the record. But it was too late: NBC disclosed the comment, the state launched an investigation, and the Trump Organizations lawyers filed a motion claiming Engoron, who found Trump guilty of fraud, had been compromised and should recuse himself.

The judge was not amused. He delivered a blistering response, describing the incident as an unwelcome, 90-second tirade and a nothingburger that had no influence on him or his understanding of the law in question, which he had thoroughly studied.

I did not initiate, welcome, encourage, engage in, or learn from, much less enjoy, Baileys tirade, Engoron wrote. I would have forgotten all about it by now had Bailey not attempted [by discussing it on television] to burnish his reputation as someone who could influence judges (which would be unethical, and possibly illegal, but of which Bailey nonetheless publicly boasts).

Engoron is at the mandatory retirement age for judges in New York and would surely not want his career to end on a tossed conviction of the highest-profile defendant ever to appear before him. When he does leave the bench, the real estate industry, which has had to go to the Appellate Division repeatedly to get Engorons rulings overturned, certainly wont miss him.

Bailey, for his part, is a complicated figure who is not afraid to stir up trouble to gain leverage for landlords or tenants he is representing. He is media savvy but sometimes it backfires. In this case, he is powerless to rebut Engorons statement because lawyers cannot go to war with judges.

Bailey declined to comment for this story, but previously told The Hill in an email that he only talked to Engoron about a decision the judge had made last fall in the case.

Story continues

I did not think that speaking to Judge Engoron about my own personal views of his already published decision was wrong in any way, he wrote.

There is no courthouse video footage to dispute Engorons depiction of the episode as a minute-and-a-half monologue and not a longer dialogue. Its the judges word against the essentially muted ALBs, so it seems unlikely that the uproar will disrupt New York Attorney General Letitia James conviction of Trump.

Trumps lawyer, Chris Kise, told the Post that if Engoron and Bailey indeed talked about the case, it would call into question the integrity of the entire case and further undermine public confidence in a New York legal system already the subject of international ridicule.

Now, how did that ever happen?

Read more

This article originally appeared on The Real Deal. Click here to read the full story.
Jesse A. Sartin allegedly admitted to investigators that he shook his girlfriend's 21-month-old daughter for 20 seconds after giving her a bath, per reports

Dearborn County Jail Jesse A. Sartin

An Indiana man is accused of shaking his girlfriend's toddler to death, authorities said.

On Friday, Aug. 2, Dearborn/Ohio County prosecutor Lynn Deddens announced in a statement that Jesse A. Sartin is charged with murder and aggravated battery resulting in death in connection with the death of his girlfriend's 21-month-old daughter. The childs name has not been publicly released by authorities.

On July 24, police officers were called to St. Elizabeth Dearborn Hospital in Lawrenceburg, Ind., on a report of a young girl with a suspicious head injury, Deddens said. The injury was initially reported to be an accident, but investigators claim that Sartin allegedly shook the girl for about 20 seconds while the childs mother was at work.

According to reporting by Fox 19, Sartin, 25, claimed in a letter he gave to his girlfriend after the alleged incident that he had been giving the girl a bath and tried to pull her out but she didnt want to get out and began screaming and swinging her arms.

I tried to pull her out but she kept pulling away and I was getting upset, Sartin allegedly wrote in the letter read in court by a detective on Monday, Aug. 5, per the outlet. Baby, Im so upset. I shook her trying to get her to calm down.

Sartin initially claimed that the girl sustained her head injury after being knocked off an ottoman by a dog, according to court documents cited by WLWT. The documents reportedly state Sartin brought the girl to the hospital after noticing she was unconscious.

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While speaking with investigators, Sartin allegedly admitted that he grabbed the girl and "shook her for about 20 seconds, WLWT reports, citing court documents.

(PEOPLE has been unable to independently confirm the contents of the letter or the court documents.)

The alleged incident led the girl to undergo emergency surgery to relieve brain swelling and pressure inside her skull, according to Deddens. She was pronounced dead on Thursday, Aug. 1.

The girls death was ruled a homicide by the Hamilton County Coroners Office and her injuries were all consistent with shaken baby syndrome, an affidavit cited by Fox 19 states.

Sartin made his first court appearance on Monday, Aug. 5, online records show. Its unclear if he has entered a plea or retained an attorney to speak on his behalf.



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Read the original article on People.
Purchases in Independence will be subject to an additional one-fourth cent sales tax to go toward the citys police department.

The proposal was approved by 61% of Tuesdays voters in the primary.

The tax is expected to bring in about $5.47 million annually and would remain in effect until repealed by voters.

City officials said the tax is necessary to increase wages for police officers and stay competitive with area agencies, including the Kansas City Police Department, which recently adopted a new wage scale that hiked pay.

Independence Police Chief Adam Dustman said in a statement Tuesday night that he was deeply grateful to the voters who supported Prop PD.

We have seen the effect raising salaries has on our ability to hire new officers already. But it also improved our ability to retain our existing officers. Morale jumped when Prop PD was announced in May, and I can already feel it on our ranks again tonight.

During a special meeting in May, Independence City Manager Zach Walker told the City Council that at the current level over 20 years, an Independence police officer would make $579,000 less than a Kansas City officer.

Entry level officers with KCPD make $65,000. Under the new proposal if voters approve the tax, Independence pay would increase to $62,000.

Officials said the boost will help recruit new officers and retain current employees.

The Independence Police Department has 230 sworn positions. Of those, 38 are vacant. The department would have to move officers away from specialized units like tactics and criminal investigations to patrol if 10 to 12 more officers left the department, Walker said.

He pointed out that there were other funding options, such as the citys $930,000 in American Rescue Plan Act money that has to be spent by the end of the year. But Walker said using that money is a one-time solution, while the sales tax is a permanent solution.

The city already has a one-eighth cent sales tax for police department capital improvements that is set to expire in 2028. Tax revenue from marijuana sales is dedicated to a redesign of the citys Justice Center.
The Office of the Indiana Attorney General moved to dismiss a case challenging a new law requiring "intellectual diversity" at universities. (Getty Images)

The Office of the Indiana Attorney General this week argued a federal judge should dismiss a lawsuit led by university professors and the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana challenging a state law requiring intellectual diversity in the classroom.

The plaintiffs assert that Senate Enrolled Act 202 violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. The measure was adopted by the General Assembly over concerns that conservative viewpoints were being stifled on campuses and signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb in March.

To protect Indiana students in the classroom, our office this week filed additional arguments to dismiss a lawsuit by four professors who say they should not have to provide a classroom environment of free inquiry, free expression, and intellectual diversity, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita said in an email. The manufactured fears put forth in yet another illegit lawsuit by the ACLU dont lack imagination, but the professors do lack standing to even bring this action. Our office will continue to defend in court this new law, which enables students to engage in free inquiry and ensures state universities foster diversity of thought.

The office filed as an intervenor. The defendants in the case are the boards of trustees as higher education institutions who will be compelled to enforce 202s provisions by law. They also joined Rokitas office in the latest filing.

202 background

As summarized in a June filing, 202 requires that faculty members be denied tenure or promotion, and threatens them with discipline through and including termination, if they are deemed unlikely to foster a culture of free inquiry, free expression, and intellectual diversity within their institution, or if they are deemed to have failed to foster such cultures in the past.

Additionally, the law further requires institutions to establish complaint procedures in which school students and staff can accuse faculty members and contractors of not meeting free-expression criteria.

Institutions will have to refer those complaints to human resource professionals and supervisors for consideration in employee reviews and tenure and promotion decisions, according to the law. In limited circumstances, complaints could be advanced to the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.

The ACLU and professors filed the federal lawsuit in May on behalf of two professors at Purdue University Fort Wayne.

Steven A. Carr is a professor of communication and the director of the Institute for Holocaust and Genocide Studies. David G. Schuster is an associate professor in the history department.

Since then, two other professors have joined the suit  James Scheurich is a tenured faculty member at Indiana University Indianapolis and David McDonald is a tenured faculty member at Indiana University Bloomington.

Plaintiffs raised concerns that the law would have a chilling effect on their free speech and require them to devote equal teaching time to debunked theories alongside rigorously studied academic analysis.

SEA 202 puts Indianas professors in an untenable position. Through vague language and the threat of harsh sanctions, including termination, the law strips professors of the academic freedom that the Supreme Court has long recognized they have the right to exercise, said ACLU of Indiana attorney Stevie Pactor in a May statement. No professor should have to choose between their employment and their First Amendment rights.

The filing from the Attorney General

Through June and July, the parties and Attorney Generals Office wrestled over a motion for a preliminary injunction that would block the law from taking effect. The judge has not ruled on that issue.

Mondays filing pushes the court to dismiss because harm hasnt yet occurred, asserting that Plaintiffs attempt to manufacture an injury by pointing to self-inflicted wounds.

They base their claims on fears about misapplications that have not yet come to pass of university policies that have not yet been enforced, the brief continued. Those speculative injuries, in turn, are not even traceable to the law Plaintiffs seeks to have facially enjoined.

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In the initial filing from plaintiffs, the history professors worried they would be required to teach about proof of Holocaust denialism, for example, or evidence related to Indianas own eugenics movement that promoted forced sterilization of minority populations.

But the Attorney Generals Office argues that such fears dont meet the bar for being actual and well-founded, as set by legal precedent and that the existence of 202 alone isnt enough to provide standing.

Perhaps recognizing that the mere-existence rule cannot win the day, Plaintiffs instead speculate about hypothetical implications of the Act. Plaintiffs concede that they already aim to foster intellectual diversity and free expression  in other words, they already comply with the Act, the filing read. Without even a shred of evidence about what the Board of Trustees enforcement will look like, Plaintiffs cannot meet that standard. They can only hypothesize that the Board of Trustees will misapply the Act to the conduct they believe is already compliant.

The boards, the filing argues, havent yet implemented the policies required by the act and so plaintiffs cannot claim harm.

The plaintiffs in the case said the result of the new law is that some speech is being chilled, and some risks being compelled. This is occurring today, as the professors prepare for their courses to begin on August 19th (Purdue University) and August 26th (Indiana University), and will continue to apply to all of their teaching.

Indiana Capital Chronicle Senior Reporter Casey Smith contributed to this story.

This story was updated to reflect two additional plaintiffs added to the case.

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One phrase is nearly impossible to escape this election cycle: Project 2025, the political action plan by The Heritage Foundation, a well-established conservative think tank.

The over 900-page document, formally titled the Mandate for Leadership, is the brainchild of a massive coalition of conservative organizations across the countrymany of which Tennessee lawmakers are members of.

The proposed plan is intended to serve as a transitional plan for a potential incoming Donald Trump administration and has stirred intense controversy in recent months for its expansive conservative policy proposals, some which include massive cuts to federal agencies and notable First Amendment concerns.

Who is behind the plan, and how is it connected to Tennessee?

In the opening pages of the lengthy Project 2025, a list of over 50 conservative organizations on the plans advisory board can be found, along with eight pages of individual contributing authors.

Of the 54 advisory organizations analyzed by The Tennessean, 19 had notable connections to the Volunteer State, along with others that have minor connections.

The organization with the largest Tennessee involvement is the American Legislative Exchange Council, a national nonprofit organization of conservative legislators who create model legislation for state distribution.

There are 28 Tennessee lawmakers listed as members of the organization, including Rep. Chris Todd, R-Madison County, and Sen. Ed Jackson, R-Jackson, who each serve as the Tennessee state chair for the organization.

Tennessee Rep. Chris Todd speaks to his supporters after winning the Republican primary for District 73 inside the 731 Comedy Club during the 2024 Tennessee Primary Elections in Jackson, Tenn., on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024.

Neither Todd nor Jackson returned requests for comment on whether they contributed to the project.

Members also include U.S. District Court Judge and former Sen. Mark Norris, who served on the group's Civil Justice Task Force, and former Rutherford County Mayor Bill Ketron, who formerly served as the former state chair.

Another organization listed on the advisory board with Tennessee connections is the Conservative Partnership Institute, a networking organization. U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Columbia, paid the organization $4,000 in membership dues in January, according to FEC filings, while U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Knoxville, paid the organization $5,000 in November, also according to FEC filings.

A spokesperson for Ogles said the payment was directly related to his role on the Board of Directors for the House Freedom Caucus, while a spokesperson for Burchett said that to her knowledge, the representative has not been involved with the development of the Mandate for Leadership.

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.

One Tennessee state lawmaker, Rep. Dennis Powers, R-Jacksboro, has an affiliation with the Heritage Foundation listed in his representative biography.

When asked if he contributed to the report in any way, and what his thoughts were on the policies within, Powers said he did not have anything to do with putting the document together, but he did agree with the positions they have taken, while noting that he just scanned through it.

Other notable Tennessee connections include:

American Center for Law and Justice: Chief Counsel and co-founder is Jay Sekulow, a well-known conservative lawyer and media personality who defended Trump during his impeachment trial, who later came under fire in 2020 after an Associated Press investigation found he had absorbed over $65 million in funds from his various charities. He lives with his family in Brentwood.

Concerned Women for America: A conservative evangelical political action group that protects and promotes Biblical values and Constitutional principles, according to its website. The group campaigns heavily against abortion, pornography, same-sex marriage and secular education. A Tennessee chapter of the organization is active.

Family Policy Alliance and the Family Research Council: This organization is a conservative Christian organization that lobbies for key religious issues, including opposition to same-sex marriage, abortion, the Equal Rights Amendment, types of sex education, and transgender rights. Former state Sen. David Fowler, R-Signal Mountain, is president of the Tennessee chapter, Family Action Council of Tennessee. In a statement provided to The Tennessean, Fowler said the group was "not personally involved in any way in the development, publication, or dissemination of Project 2025 nor was the Family Action Council of Tennessee or Alliance for Law and Liberty."

Forge Leadership Network: A recruiting network for young conservatives, this organization sends students to professional development summits to train them to become conservative leaders. The organization held its most recent summit in Nashville in June, meeting with Gov. Bill Lee at the Capitol.

FreedomWorks: U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Knoxville, is an active member and received the group's Freedom Fighter award in June 2020 alongside U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tennessee.

Independent Womens Forum: A nonprofit conservative organization that specializes in economic policy and its effect on women, the organization was a major driving force behind the Tennessee Womens Bill of Rights legislation, which was passed in 2023 and that codified the definition of sex as being determined by a persons anatomy at the time of birth. The bill was largely decried by LGBTQ+ rights activists as a measure to further stigmatize those who identified as transgender, nonbinary or were born intersex.

Oracle Corp: While not listed on the advisory board, the tech giant, which recently announced that it will be moving its world headquarters to Nashville under a $1.2 billion investment plan, was contracted by the Heritage Foundation to help pre-screen thousands of government workers using artificial intelligence, according to reporting by the New York Times. The screening is to create a list of Trump loyalists for him to potentially hire upon a potential second term, according to The Heritage Foundation.

Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America: One of the largest nonprofit lobbying organizations for anti-abortion issues, the group embarked on a massive campaign effort to help solidify anti-abortion policies in Tennessee. In secret recordings obtained by ProPublica, the group  alongside Tennessee Right to Life  gave state lawmakers tips on how to avoid adding exceptions to the near-total ban on abortion, discussed tracking doctors who administer abortions at higher rates and advised that lawmakers wait for outrage to die down before revisiting regulating in vitro fertilization.

Young Americas Foundation: One of the most influential young conservative nonprofit organizations in the nation, the group began on Vanderbilt Universitys campus in 1969. It is now headquartered in Virginia.

What is in Project 2025?

The Mandate for Leadership outlines an expansive list of conservative goals that intend to rescue the country from the grip of the radical Left and build on four pillars that will, collectively, pave the way for an effective conservative administration, according to the Heritage Foundations website.

A person holds a placard reading "Project 2025 is un-American" as anti-Trump protestors demonstrate on the first day of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, July 15, 2024.

Despite Trumps recent statements on social media claiming that he knows "nothing about Project 2025, has "no idea who is behind it and has "nothing to do with them, the Heritage Foundation has wielded heavy influence within every conservative administration since 1973  including the previous Trump administration, in which Trump passed 64% of the Foundation's policy recommendations in his first year alone, according to data obtained from the Heritage Foundation.

Key initiatives in the project include, but are far from limited to:

Mass deportation of undocumented immigrants (Chapter 5)

Rescinding regulations that bar discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, and sex characteristics (pg. 584)

Opposition to same-sex marriage and same-sex couples adopting children by seeking to "maintain a biblically based, social science-reinforced definition of marriage and family (pg. 481)

Reversal of all DEI programs and termination of the Treasury Advisory Committee on Racial Equity (pg. 5, 708)

Ending the Head Start program, which provides preschool and early child development services to low-income families (pg. 482)

Tightening restrictions on children receiving free school lunch (pg. 302)

Outlawing pornography and imprisoning anyone who produces or distributes it. (pg. 5)

Registering educators and librarians who are found purveying material deemed pornographic as sex offenders (pg. 5)

In addition to these initiatives, it calls for reorganizing or dismantling federal agencies including the FBI, the Department of Education, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrationwhich includes the National Weather Servicethe Department of Homeland Security and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, as well as banning drugs used in medication abortions and making drastic changes to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

A highly anticipated addition to the project titled Project Sovereignty 2025 will be a publicly released list of names of federal employees that the Heritage Foundation and affiliated organization American Accountability Project deem anti-American bad actors burrowed into the administrative state.

Tennessee serves as a 'canary in a coal mine' for restrictive policies, state rep says

Amid the noise in Tennessee about what Project 2025 could bring, one lawmaker is drawing attention to what is already here.

Ive been telling people that Project 2025 is Tennessee 2024 because we have been the tip of the spear in experiencing some of these rollbacks that would be expanded nationally under this proposal, said Rep. Justin Jones, D-Nashville.

He called the document a blueprint of eroding democracy, pointing out how similar the proposed policies are to laws recently passed by the Tennessee legislature. He cited the task force created to study whether the state could reject federal funding for education because of federal strings attached to the funding as one example.

A substantial portion of Project 2025 calls for the dismantling of the Department of Education. In its place, Project 2025 calls for a number of privatized solutions  including ones similar to Lees push for school choice legislation.

An additional section of Project 2025 calling for the registering of educators and librarians who are found purveying material deemed pornographic as sex offenders echoes a growing movement in Tennessee to monitor and ban content deemed inappropriatewhich often includes sex education material or any mention of LGBTQ+ issueswithin public and school libraries.

More: 'Wild West' of book bans: New legislation, complaints lead to increasing debates

Jones said watching these issues across Tennessee can show how Project 2025s similar policies could impact people nationwide, especially on issues like LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, education and religious freedom.

I really think that Tennessee can be a canary in the coal mine to warn the nation, he said. We must recognize that we are the laboratories where they test out regressive policies before nationalizing them."

The USA TODAY Network - Tennessee's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners.

Have a story to tell? Reach Angele Latham by email at alatham@gannett.com, by phone at 931-623-9485, or follow her on Twitter at @angele_latham

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Project 2025: What connections does the plan have to Tennessee?
This is part three of Operation Shakedown, a series about heavy-handed traffic enforcement tactics and property seizures in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. Click here to read part four.

South Carolina sheriff's deputies faced backlash when they boarded a Shaw University charter bus in October 2022 and started rummaging through students' personal belongings without a warrant. The historically black school filed a complaint with the Department of Justice. Now, newly released public records show the police intrusion was not an isolated incident.

Officers routinely pulled over and searched commercial buses during Operation Rolling Thunder in 2022, in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. Officials claim they do not know the precise number of bus searches that year, but a tally sheet shows 45 commercial motor vehicle inspections during the five-day operation. This matches reports from Operation Rolling Thunder in 2023, when the county stopped 45 buses in just four daysmore than 11 per day.

Only a handful of these people did anything wrong. Officers found drugs on 11 buses and identified only six suspects. Yet the police treated all bus riders like criminals, often forcing innocent people off buses and going through their luggage for 45 minutes or longer.

'Used To This'

One bus driver transporting passengers from New York to Atlanta told officers he expects to face criminal treatment by police officers during his trips.

"(He) advised me that he was used to this and that it's routine for him to get pulled over during his trips," a Cherokee County deputy wrote in a report, included in 262 pages of records obtained by the Institute for Justice.

The reason for the selective enforcement is clear. Bus riders make soft targets for search and seizure. As a group, they tend to be lower-income. Reuters says a 12-hour bus ride "provides an insight into the lives of America's poor."

Once abuse occurs, bus passengers have little ability to call it out because they lack political clout. Unlike Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright, who called a news conference and cast suspicion on all bus riders during a 2022 news conference, the people he smeared rarely have a platform to respond.

Incidentally, many buses are also loaded with cash. Lower-income individuals are the most likely Americans to be "unbanked," meaning no one in the household has a checking or savings account. They do business in cash, which they are more likely to carry while traveling.

Anatomy of a Bus Search

Public records from Operation Rolling Thunder reveal how these cash grabs work. Police wait on Interstate 85 for buses to approach and then invent reasons to conduct traffic stops. Officers pulled over one bus for driving 5 miles per hour over the speed limit.

More typically, officers accused bus drivers of lane violations, which can mean swerving slightly without crossing any lines. Officers can use dramatic language to juice up this allegation. One sheriff's deputy told a Greyhound bus driver headed to Atlanta that he was "bouncing from side to side" within his lane.

Once the bus is pulled over, interdiction teams spring into action.

One officer asks the driver to step off the bus and open the undercarriage for a K-9 sniff. Another officer has the dog on a leash nearby, ready to go. Drivers invariably comply, and the dogs typically alert for something suspicious. Officers then use this evidence as probable cause to open suitcases.

If officers find contraband, they use this as probable cause to enter the cabin. If they do not find contraband, they get consent from the driver and search the cabin anyway.

Officers sometimes clear the cabin prior to these sweeps, forcing everyone onto the highway shoulder. "At this point all passengers were asked to exit the vehicle," a Gaffney County deputy wrote in one report. The command is phrased like a request, but instructions like these carry an implied threat of escalation if anyone refuses.

During Operation Rolling Thunder, records show nobody refused. The outcome was predetermined.

The post Inside the Unchecked Bus Searches by South Carolina Police appeared first on Reason.com.
Interim government to be sworn in in Dhaka as Nobel laureate returns

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 interim Bangladeshi government, to be headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is likely to be sworn in on Thursday night, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said at a media briefing aired live on Wednesday in the capital Dhaka.

Bangladeshi President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday decided to appoint Yunus as the head of the caretaker administration, to oversee the next election after long-time prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday in the face of mass protests.

The Nobel laureate economist and entrepreneur, who championed the concepts of microcredit and microfinance, is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Thursday afternoon from Dubai, a press release from the Yunus Centre said.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman said the oath-taking ceremony will be held at 8 pm (1400 GMT). The size of the interim caretaker administration is likely to be 15, he said.

A panel of advisers to the interim government is also to be appointed shortly after Yunus arrives.

Ahead of his return to Bangladesh, Yunus called upon young people to remain calm and get ready to rebuild the country.

Yunus congratulated the students and the people of the South Asian country for making possible a "Second Victory Day," the statement added in reference to the deadly student protests that forced the ouster of Hasina.

"Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes," he said, calling upon everyone to refrain from all kinds of violence.

"This is our beautiful country with lots of exciting possibilities. We must protect and make it a wonderful country for us and for our future generations," Yunus said.

A Dhaka court on Wednesday acquitted Yunus and three others of a labour law violation in which they were sentenced to six months in jail, his counsel Khaja Tanvir Ahmed told reporters in Dhaka.

In January, Yunus and his colleagues were sentenced for failing to confirm employees on completion of their probationary periods, get work schedules approved by the authorities and submit annual and half-yearly returns to employees.

The court allowed Yunus and other executives of his company to remain on bail until they filed an appeal, so they did not need to go to prison immediately.

Wednesdays acquittal came after they moved an appeal to the higher court. Yunus lawyers had termed the lower courts verdict politically motivated.

Tens of thousands of activists from the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) rallied in the capital Dhaka on Wednesday, with its leader urging everyone to keep patient after the ouster of Hasinas government.

"No destruction, no revenge, no vengeance; Lets build a society based on love, peace, and knowledge," former prime minister and head of the BNP Khaleda Zia said in a video played for the crowd in front her party headquarters in central Nayapaltan.

This was her first public address in more than six years since she was jailed on graft charges in 2018 during the rule of Hasina, Zias arch political rival.

The ailing Zia, 78, was freed on a presidential decree on Tuesday, a day after Hasina resigned and fled the country. Zia has been undergoing medical care at a hospital in Dhaka, the party leader said.

Organizers say more than 50,000 people joined the rally.

Hasina, who ruled the South Asian country with an iron fist for the last 15 years, resigned as prime minister and fled to India by a military helicopter, prompting thousands of protesters to break into her home in Dhaka and loot everything.

The more than three weeks of violent protests left some 300 people dead before Hasina left, and roughly 100 others were killed as violence flared up in many parts of the country in the aftermath of her resignation.

A car burns in the Ganobhaban while people gather at the residence of former Prime Minister Hasina after she fled and resigned. Prime Minister Hasina had resigned on Monday after weeks of deadly anti-government demonstrations in the South Asian country. Piyas Biswas/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
State agencies are asking the public to keep an eye out for invasive insects known for boring into trees.

The Washington Invasive Species Council, Washington State Department of Natural Resources Urban and Community Forestry Program, Washington State Department of Agriculture and Washington State University Extension are working together to spread the word about these invasive species and encourage residents to help find them.

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.

The invasive Longhorned Beetle feeds on trees and is extremely destructive to hardwood trees.

The Emerald Ash Borer is a small wood-boring beetle that attacks and kills ash trees. Larvae get under the bark and eat the sapwood. This species was detected outside of Portland in 2022 and Vancouver, British Columbia in 2024.

The Spotted Lanternfly feeds off the sap of fruit trees and hops. It has not been seen in Washington but has been intercepted in California.

These insects can also be found in standing water, light fixtures and outdoor equipment.

Residents are asked to closely examine the trees on their properties, take photos, and report any sightings through the Washington Invasive Species Council mobile app or website.

More information and ways to help can be found on the Recreation and Conservation Office website.
Iran still considering scope of retaliatory attack on Israel

Smoke billows from the site of an Israeli strike on the southern Lebanese village of Kfar Kila on Aug 6 - AFP

Tehran is still considering the scope of its response to the suspected Israeli assassination of a top Hamas leader in Iran, US officials say.

A retaliatory strike from Iran to the killing of Ismail Haniyeh was widely expected on Sunday or Monday.

Multiple US officials told CNN that the US still expects an attack in the coming days but it remains unclear whether it will be led by Tehran or its proxy, Hezbollah.

The officials said Iran is still believed to be deliberating the scope of its response. In the meantime, Hezbollah may choose to act alone, one US official and one western intelligence official told CNN.

The US and its allies have been engaged in hasty efforts to pressure Iran to change course and avoid the war escalating.

More than a thousand British troops are on standby for the evacuation of UK nationals from Lebanon as the Middle East braces of an attack on Israel by Iran and its proxies over the twin assassinations of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders.

04:05 PM BST

Thats it for today. Thanks for following our live blog.

Here is a rundown of the days main stories:

More than a thousand British troops are on standby for the evacuation of UK nationals from Lebanon as fears mount of a major escalation in the Middle East

Irans president told Emmanuel Macron that if the US and the West truly wants to prevent a war, they must force Israel to stop the conflict in Gaza

Am Israeli drone struck a vehicle in the southern Lebanese town of Jouaiyya, according to Lebanese media reports

Yoav Gallant, Israels defence minister, said he held an important call with his German counterpart over the threats posed by Iran and its proxies

Calling for calm in the Middle East, top US national security leaders said Tuesday that they and allies are directly pressing Israel, Iran and others to avoid escalating the conflict

03:52 PM BST

British troops on standby to evacuate citizens from Lebanon

More than a thousand British troops are on standby for the evacuation of UK nationals from Lebanon as fears mount of a major escalation in the Middle East.

Hundreds of personnel from three services, including the Royal Marines, have been deployed to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, while hundreds more are ready to be deployed to the region.

The risk is so severe, The Times reports, that the military has prepared for an evacuation on the same scale as the operation to rescue Brits and Afghans from Kabul during the Taliban takeover in 2021.

The UK has already moved warships and helicopters to the eastern Mediterranean to brace for a possible two-wave attack on Israel by Iran and its proxies over the twin assassinations of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders.

Countries have been desperately urging their citizens to get out of Lebanon and Iran this week as US security chiefs warned an attack was imminent.

03:37 PM BST

Israel vows to kill new Hamas leader Sinwar

Israel has vowed to kill Yahya Sinwar, the architect of Oct 7, after he was announced the new overall leader of Hamas after the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh.

Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari told Al-Arabiya: There is only one place for Yahya Sinwar, and it is beside Mohammed Deif and the rest of the October 7 terrorists. That is the only place were preparing and intending for him.

Israel announced last week it had killed Deif, the leader of Hamass military wing, in an air strike in July.

Yahya Sinwar, the new overall head of Hamas, has not been seen since Oct 7 - AFP

03:33 PM BST

Iran to delay attack till Thursday or Friday

US intelligence believes Irans pledged attack on Israel is likely to come on Thursday or Friday after a delay by Tehran as it considered its options, sources briefed on the matter told the Saudi state-owned Al Arabiya.

American defence officials warned on Sunday and Monday that the strike would occur within 24 hours.

However, neither Iran nor Hezbollah have so far retaliated for the back-to-back assassinations of senior militant leaders.

02:45 PM BST

Netanyahu tells Israelis to stay calm and composed

Benjamin Netanyahu has told his citizens to stay calm and composed amid fears of an imminent attack by Iran and its regional proxies.

Visiting an army recruitment base in central Israel, the prime minister said: We are continuing forward to victory. I know that Israeli citizens are on alert, and I ask you one thing  stay calm and composed.

We are prepared for both defense and offense, we are striking our enemies and are also determined to defend ourselves, he told troops, who he referred to as the backbone of the nation.

   -  .



      .          . . pic.twitter.com/KVwidh0dql  Benjamin Netanyahu -   (@netanyahu) August 7, 2024

02:36 PM BST

Iran warns Macron Gaza ceasefire only way to prevent war

Irans president told Emmanuel Macron that if the US and the West truly wants to prevent a war, they must force Israel to stop the conflict in Gaza.

Israel must accept a ceasefire, Masoud Pezeshkian said in a call with the French leader.

Iran will never remain silent in the face of aggression against its interests and security, Mr Pezeshkian added, according to Iranian state media.

02:09 PM BST

Israel issues new evacuation order for north Gaza

Israeli forces on Wednesday issued new evacuation orders to Palestinians in areas of northern Gaza that were among the first to be hit at the start of the war with Hamas in October.

The order applies to several districts in Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahiya, two now largely demolished towns into which Israeli tanks swept at the outset of Israels ground invasion.

Avichay Adraee, an IDF spokesman, said: Hamas and terrorist organisations are firing rockets from your area towards the State of Israel.

The IDF will act forcefully and immediately against them, he added. For your own safety, evacuate immediately to the known shelters in the center of Gaza City.

A Palestinian woman cries amid the rubble of her home destroyed in Israeli attacks in Deir al-Balah, Gaza on Aug 7 - Anadolu

The IDF said they struck the area after Hamas fired rockets into southern Israel - Anadolu

Palestinians collect usable items from the ruins of their former homes - Anadolu

01:47 PM BST

War-weary Gazans voice concern over new Hamas leader Sinwar

War-weary Gazans have voiced their concerns after Hamas appointed Yahya Sinwar as its new supremo, fearing his past as the groups military commander might hamper efforts for the ceasefire they yearn for.

In central Gaza city of Deir el-Balah, Mohammad al-Sharif, 29, said: We dont know how Hamas is thinking or what led them to choose Yahya Sinwar as their chief, especially when his whereabouts are unknown.

He is a fighter. How will negotiations take place? asked the displaced man originally from Gaza City, adding: We want nothing but the end of the war.

Another Gazan, Ibrahim Abu Daqa, 35, added: In my opinion, appointing Yahya Sinwar as the head of Hamas was inappropriate at this critical stage

Late on Tuesday, Hamas announced it had chosen Sinwar, 61, the masterminded of Oct 7, to replace Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran on July 31.

Sinwar has not been seen since the attack on Israel, with many reports claiming he is operating from one of several underground tunnels in Gaza.

01:06 PM BST

Iran boosts its air defences

Iran is bolstering its air defences with more radar systems and missile and drone interceptors, according to the IRNA state news agency.

The Iranian long-range air defence system 'Arman' is unveiled in Tehran in February - Reuters

12:51 PM BST

Who is in Irans Axis of Resistance

The Iran-backed axis of resistance against Israel has threatened retaliation after losing two major figures last week in attacks either blamed on or claimed by Israel.

But who are the main members?

Hezbollah

Lebanons Hezbollah, the most powerful axis of resistance group, has traded near-daily cross-border fire with Israel since the start of the Gaza war.

Hezbollah, or Party of God in Arabic, was founded during the 1975-1990 Lebanon civil war after Israels 1982 ground assault on Beirut.

Created at the initiative of Irans Revolutionary Guards, the group fought Israeli troops who occupied south Lebanon until 2000.

Hezbollah has expanded the size and quality of its arsenal since it last fought an all-out war with Israel in 2006 and is considered to have a bigger arsenal than the army.

Hamas

Iran has made the Palestinian cause a centrepiece of its foreign policy since the Islamic revolution of 1979.

Hamas was created shortly after the first Palestinian uprising erupted in 1987, and has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007.

In recent years, the group improved its relations with Iran and gradually became a key axis of resistance member.

Iraq resistance groups

Several Iraqi Shiite Muslim groups are also aligned with Iran and hostile to the US, which still maintains troops in Iraq as part of its campaign against the Islamic State.

In the first few months of the Gaza war, these armed groups, which have formed a loose alliance known as the Islamic Resistance of Iraq, targeted US forces in the country in support of the Palestinians, before suspending their attacks in late January.

The alliance, whose main groups have been integrated into Iraqs armed forces, has also claimed drone and rocket attacks on Israel.

Yemens Houthis

The Houthi rebels seized Yemens capital of Sanaa and most of the north in 2014 after quickly rising in size.

Since November, they have waged a campaign of attacks against commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden that they say are linked to Israel, triggering retaliatory strikes by the US, UK and other allies.

The rebels have also claimed attacks on Israel, some of them joint operations with Iraqi groups.

On July 20, Israel struck the rebel-controlled Red Sea port of Hodeida, a day after a Houthi drone attack killed a civilian in Tel Aviv.

12:30 PM BST

Israeli drone strikes vehicle in southern Lebanon

Am Israeli drone struck a vehicle in the southern Lebanese town of Jouaiyya, according to Lebanese media reports.

One person is said to have been killed and four others injured in the alleged attack.

There has been no immediate comment from Israel.

11:48 AM BST

UK renews calls for Brits in Lebanon to leave now

British ministers have called for all British nationals in Lebanon to leave now as situation could deteriorate rapidly, warning that commercial air travel may soon be stopped.

David Lammy, Foreign Secretary, added in a statement: Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly. While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is clear  leave now.

11:20 AM BST

Dont wait for evacuation from Lebanon, Germany tells citizens

Rumours of a possible evacuation operation from Lebanon have given German citizens there a false sense of security, a German foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday, urging them to leave the country immediately.

The time now has come to leave Lebanon, the spokesperson said, calling on citizens to organise their own exit even if this means travelling via Turkey or paying high prices for flights.

10:56 AM BST

Hamas-run health ministry updates Gaza death toll to 39,677

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said that at least 39,677 people have been killed in the war between Israel and Palestinian militants, which passed 10 months on Wednesday.

The toll includes 24 deaths in the past 24 hours, according to ministry figures, and also list 91,645 people as having been wounded in the Gaza Strip since the war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct 7.

The ministry does not distinguish between civilian and combat deaths and Israel disputes its figures.

10:36 AM BST

White House enraged with Israel over Hamas chief assassination

Israel immediately admitted to the US that it was behind the attack which killed Hamass political chief in Tehran, enraging the White House, according to reports.

Biden administration officials viewed the assassination as a major setback in their careful, months-long negotiations to end the war in Gaza, The Washington Post reported, citing people briefed on the matter.

Israel has still not publicly claimed nor denied the killing of Ismail Haniyeh on Iranian soil. Hamas announced on Tuesday that Yahya Sinwar, the terror groups leader in Gaza and architect of the Oct 7 attacks, would replace Haniyeh as its political head.

US officials were also said to be outraged that Israel failed to inform them before launching other operations to assassinate senior militant leaders, including the Beirut strike on a Hezbollah commander.

Top US security chiefs have said they are working around the clock urging Israel and Iran to avoid escalating the conflict, while moving more American troops into the region.

President Biden and Kamala Harris are briefed in the White House Situation Room about the Middle East crisis on Aug 5 - White House

09:56 AM BST

Gallant: Free world must unite against Iran

Yoav Gallant, Israels defence minister, said he held an important call with his German counterpart over the threats posed by Iran and its proxies.

He thanked Boris Pistorius for standing with Israel.

The free world must come together against the biggest destabilizer and exporter of terrorism - Iran, Mr Gallant added.

Held an important discussion with my friend, German Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius. Briefed the Minister on security developments and threats posed by Iran and its proxies against Israel and the wider region.



Thank you Minister, for standing with Israel. The free world    - Yoav Gallant (@yoavgallant) August 7, 2024

09:32 AM BST

Turkey to request to join genocide case against Israel in UN court

Turkey will file a request with a United Nations court on Wednesday to join South Africas genocide lawsuit against Israel, a Turkish official said.

The declaration of intervention will be submitted at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, the official added.

Turkey, one of the fiercest critics of Israels actions in Gaza, will become the latest nation to seek to participate in the case.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkeys president, has frequently accused Israel of committing genocide, called for it to be punished in international courts and criticized Western nations for backing Israel.

In May, Turkey suspended trade with Israel, citing its assault on Gaza.

09:22 AM BST

Pictured: Yahya Sinwar  new overall leader of Hamas

Yahya Sinwar, pictured in Gaza City in 2021, has taken overall control of Hamas after the death of Ismail Haniyeh, the terror group's political head - AFP

The evasive terror leader has been hunted for months by Israel and is believed to be hiding deep in the tunnel network beneath Gaza - AFP

Israel branded him 'Gaza's Bin Laden' after he masterminded the Oct 7 attacks - Shutterstock

09:01 AM BST

Western ambassadors to skip Nagasaki memorial after Israel snub

Ambassadors from Western countries including the UK and US will skip a ceremony marking the 79th anniversary of an atomic bomb being dropped on Nagasaki after Israel was snubbed.

Nagasakis mayor said last week that Gilad Cohen, Israels ambassador, was not invited to Fridays event in the southern Japanese city because of the risk of possible protests over the Gaza conflict.

The US and British embassies said on Wednesday their ambassadors would not take part as a result, and instead lower-ranking diplomats would be sent.

Australia, Italy, Canada and the EU are expected to follow suit.

Rahm Emanuel, the US ambassador, will not attend after the mayor of Nagasaki politicised the event by not inviting the Israeli ambassador, an embassy spokesman said.

Kishida Fumio, Japan's prime minister, lays a wreath of flowers for the victims of the world's first atomic bombing in Hiroshima, Japan, Aug 6 - Anadolu

08:45 AM BST

US diplomacy may have curbed an Iranian attack  report

Iran may have been persuaded to abandon its original attack plans on Israel after hasty US diplomatic efforts and its military show of force in the region, a senior Biden official has said.

Iran understands clearly that the United States is unwavering in its defense of our interests, our partners and our people. We have moved a significant amount of military assets to the region to underscore that principle, the unnamed official told The Washington Post.

Washingtons messages to Tehran this week have focused on the risk posed by an escalation and the major consequences it could have on the stability of President Masoud Pezeshkians new government.

Although Iran has tried to claim Ismail Haniyeh, Hamass political chief, was killed by a missile, Biden officials said the regime has privately accepted that a bomb was placed in his room, which might aid in provoking a lesser response.

However, Iran-backed Hezbollah remains a wild card, sources said.

08:13 AM BST

Hezbollah leader vows strong response to Israel whatever the consequences

The leader of Hezbollah vowed on Tuesday that the Lebanese militant group would strike back against Israel with a strong response in retaliation for the dual assassinations of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders.

What is required is confrontation, Hassan Nasrallah said during his much-anticipated speech.

Iran and Hezbollah were obliged to respond to the killings, he said whatever the consequences.

Our response will come, God willing...and it will be strong, Mr Nasrallah added.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah's speech is televised in front of a huge crowd in Beirut on Tuesday - AP

Supporters of Hezbollah shout slogans as they listen to Nasrallah vows a 'strong' response on Israel - Shutterstock

08:06 AM BST

US leaders call for calm as more troops deployed to Middle East

Calling for calm in the Middle East, top US national security leaders said Tuesday that they and allies are directly pressing Israel, Iran and others to avoid escalating the conflict.

Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, said at the close of a meeting with Australian leaders: Its urgent that everyone in the region take stock of the situation, understand the risk of miscalculation, and make decisions that will calm tensions, not exacerbate them.

But as they called for restraint, the US moved more troops to the region and threatened retaliation if American forces were attacked.

Referring to a rocket attack on American forces in Iraq by an Iran-backed militia group, Lloyd Austin, defence secretary, made it clear that the US wont hesitate to respond.

Make no mistake, the United States will not tolerate attacks on our personnel in the region. And we remain ready to deploy on short notice to meet the evolving threats to our security, our partners or our interests, he said.

Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, speaks during a news conference at US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, Aug 6 - AP

07:26 AM BST

Orchestrator of Oct 7 attacks takes overall control of Hamas

Yahya Sinwar will be the new political leader of Hamas following the assassination of Ismail 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 orchestrator of the October 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.

Read the full story here.

07:25 AM BST

Watch: Hezbollah strikes Israel with explosive drones

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 its explosive-laden drones targeted a barracks near the city of Nahariya, while Israel reported several civilians were injured.

An explosion on a highway, that critically injured a civilian, was initially believed to have been caused by a drone launched by Hezbollah, however Israels military later said it was caused by a Iron Dome interceptor missile missing its target and hitting the ground.

07:22 AM BST

Welcome to our live coverage

Were bringing you all the latest from the crisis in the Middle East.

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BRIGHTON TWP.  A local tile firm's sweet spot is high-profile projects. Artisan Tile, based in Brighton Township, has covered airport terminals, schools and hospitals in tile, marble and terrazzo.

Recently, they've helped revitalize spaces in Detroit. They're also involved in renovation work at the State Capitol in Lansing.

"We specialize in large, high-end projects with a lot of detail," said President Jen Panning. "We have a lot of relationships with general contractors and we do a lot of repeat business."

A few years ago, Detroit businessman Dan Gilbert, co-founder of Quicken Loans and Rocket Mortgage, moved the headquarters for Rock Ventures  his family of companies  to downtown Detroit.

From left, Artisan Tile general superintendent Andy Kornoski and president Jen Panning pull examples of terrazzo from a sample wall on Friday, Aug. 2, 2024.

Artisan Tile was tapped by Pophouse, an interior design studio founded by Jennifer Gilbert, to work their magic on floors, walls and restrooms at the new headquarters.

Detailed terrazzo floor work earned Artisan Tile a prestigious award from the National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association on April 17. The association previously awarded the company for terrazzo work at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago in Detroit in 2014.

Brighton Township-based Artisan Tile installed a terrazzo floor depicting Detroit's original hub and spokes design at Rock Ventures in Detroit.

The company also created three palladiana terrazzo floor installations for Rock Ventures, and installed a large circular mosaic at the bottom of an enormous spiral staircase.

Jennifer Janus, president of Pophouse, offered high praise for Artisan Tile's work.

"From the very beginning of the project, we knew the art in the space was going to be the shining star," Janus said. "Were always looking for a company that can be creative with us."

Subscribe: Get all your breaking news and unlimited access to our local coverage

Other high-profile projects for Artisan Tile include renovations at Heritage Hall, the McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Airport and Little Caesars Arena.

In Livingston County, Artisan Tile has worked in plenty of school buildings, plus the University of Michigan's Brighton Center for Specialty Care on Challis Road and Lake Trust Credit Union on Old US-23.

 Contact reporter Jennifer Eberbach at jeberbach@livingstondaily.com.

This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Livingston's Artisan Tile beautifies projects in Detroit, State Capitol
Iran warns airlines to avoid its airspace for 3 hours on Thursday over military drills, Egypt says

This is a locator map for Iran with its capital, Tehran. (AP Photo)

CAIRO (AP)  Egypts Civil Aviation Ministry said Wednesday it has ordered Egyptian airlines to avoid Iranian airspace for three hours the following day after a notice from Tehran to do so because of military exercises.

The warning comes amid soaring tensions in the region following last weeks assassination of Hamas leader in Tehran. The Egyptian ministry said the warning came in a notice sent by Iran to all commercial airlines.

The ministry said the ban from Iranian airspace was to last for three hours, 4:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. on Thursday. Irans warning also covered three hours earlier on Wednesday, the ministry added.

Speaking to Irans ISNA news agency, the head of Irans international airport in Tehran, Saeed Chalandari, denied reports of a warning against entering the airspace of western Iran, but it was not clear if that applied to the entire country.

Israel has been bracing for an attack by Iran and its allied militias over the assassinations in Tehran of Hamas top leader Ismail Haniyeh and a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut.

Iran and Hamas have blamed Israel for the July 31 explosion in Tehran that killed Haniyeh. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility.

The escalation prompted many international carriers to suspend flights to Lebanon, Israel and Iran.
Even before the official announcement that Tim Walz would be named the vice presidential candidate on the Democratic ticket, the Internet churned out a cacophony of clips and quips reflecting his progressive bona fides. As Minnesota governor embracing a gaggle of children at the bill signing for free school breakfasts and lunches. As folksy dad joking with his daughter, a vegetarian, about whether turkey is meat. (According to Walz, In Minnesota, turkey is special.)

Amid these, a corresponding, more crude moniker arose: Tampon Tim. This time, an apparent conservative dig referencing Walzs support for a 2024 state law that requires all Minnesota public schools to provide menstrual products in bathrooms.

There is an element of deja vu in the timing. Nearly nine years ago to the day, on August 8, 2015, then-presidential candidate Donald Trump hurled an insult at then-Fox newscaster Megyn Kelly: he accused her of having blood coming out of her wherever when he thought her debate questions were unfair. At the time, I wrote here at TIME: Period jokes are a dime a dozen, Donald. Half of the American electorateindeed, half the worlds populationcopes with menstruation. But for those who live in poverty, lack of access to menstrual health care is more than a punch line.

Now nearly a decade later, periods have become a mainstream public policy priority. Far from being mocked or maligned, menstrual equity is an agenda that enjoys broad bipartisan support across the country. So far, 30 states have eliminated state sales tax on menstrual products (also known as the tampon tax"), including a law signed last year by the Republican governor of Texas, Greg Abbott. Minnesota is one of 28 states committed by law and/or budget to providing menstrual products in schools, joined by states with Republican leadership like Georgia, New Hampshire, Ohio, and Utah.

In fact, in 2018, Trump himself signed the first-ever federal menstrual access requirement into lawthe First Step Act, a 2018 prison and sentencing reform package that mandates menstrual product provision in federal prisons. In 2020 he went on to sign the CARES Act, which made it possible for the first time for employees to use their Flexible Spending Account allowances to buy menstrual products with pre-tax dollars.

As for the latest round of name calling, it seems the aspect of the Minnesota law that has conservatives most agitated is its language: the law states that pads and tampons must be available to all menstruating students and in restrooms regularly used by students in grades 4 to 12. A failed attempt to amend the bill to only name female restrooms, did not keep it from passing as is with bipartisan support. Among its Republican supporters, Rep. Dean Urdahl remarked, Just talking with my wife and family members, they felt like it was an important issue I should support.

And it really should be that simple. Policies that address the economic burden of menstruation, and that acknowledge the educational value of treating period products as basic school supplies, have proven to be a popular and common sense reformat home and abroad.

As a matter of political gamesmanship, zeroing in on any issue that implicates reproductive health, menstruation among them, is a risky gambit for Republicans. Poll after poll shows that the majority of Americans support reproductive rights and turn out to vote on the issue. In her role as Vice President, Kamala Harris has taken up the discussion around menstrual literacy and data protection as it pertains to abortion, for example. With Gov. Walz as a champion for fighting period poverty, it is a drum the ticket is wise to beat.

And finally, as Walz reminds usanyone who thinks that period jokes are appropriate or funny is just plain, well, weird.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
A series of three Taylor Swift concerts set to be held in Austria were canceled Wednesday following a thwarted terrorist attack on a venue in Vienna, which resulted in two arrests.

The suspects were reportedly planning to use chemical substances to attack Swifts upcoming Eras Tour at Viennas Ernst Happel Stadium.

The men were reportedly radicalized online and at least one is believed by authorities to have pledged allegiance to the Islamic terrorist group ISIS last month, according to Austrian outlet Kronen Zeitung.

Austrias Director General for Public Safety told Kronen Zeitung The suspected perpetrator was focused on the Taylor Swift concerts and Preparatory actions were detected, but the concrete threat has been averted.

Hours after the arrests, authorities told the outlet that accomplices are still being investigated as abstract danger may still exist, so organizers announced they had no choice but to cancel the shows, according to ABC News.

Prior to the cancellation, security measures were being increased to accommodate massive crowds expected for the sold out tour stop.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Across the outside of Glen McKinneys garage, hes lined a small wall of sandbags up.

He expects water from Tropical Storm Debby to flow down Prestwick Road in the neighborhood and past their house. He didnt want it to ruin anything in his garage and said the thin line of sandbags should be enough to prevent any flooding.

A former New Englander, McKinney has lived in Island Green with his wife for 31 years; however, worrying about flood waters only became a concern recently. During Hurricane Florence in 2018, water first got into McKinneys garage and damaged some of his belongings.

When we first got here, it never flooded, He said. Then over the years, its progressed to probably eight inches of water in the front yard.

Now, everything in his garage is raised from the floor to protect it from flood waters. The flooding has taken a financial and physical toll. McKinney pays almost $4,000 annually for homeowners insurance and didnt have flood insurance when he first got his home.

McKinney pays around $900 a year for flood insurance, as the Myrtle Beach area generally pays some of the highest homeowners insurance premiums in the Palmetto State.

While hes not ready to flee, McKinney added he is somewhat concerned and is maintaining vigilance.

Aaron Skipper doesnt have to lift anything in his apartment or worry about water destroying his things. He has lived on the second floor of the apartment complex on White Tree Lane in the Island Green area with his girlfriend and two dogs for more than a year.

However, Skipper, who has lived in South Carolina for 24 years, said the water will still impact him. He said the pond next to his apartment would surely overflow once Tropical Storm Debby arrives, making the road out of his apartment complex impassible unless one has a truck or is on a mission to get out.

Its going to be a little complicated to go anywhere, Skipper said. So if you got work or anything, hopefully, theyre understanding about it.

Residents of Island Green are familiar with the flooding. The community is accessible by only one road, Sunnehanna Road, and due to development projects undertaken in the area, flooding has become an issue for residents.

McKinney said residents raised concerns as the area grew, but those worries fell on silent ears.

Indeed, Tropical Storm Debby is expected to bring catastrophic rainfall and life-threatening flash flooding, with as much as 10-15 inches of rain expected to fall on Horry County.

While Skipper is not as worried as he was when Hurricane Florence hit South Carolina, the potential for severe wind and rain does concern him a bit.

Mother Nature will come tear your stuff down in a heartbeat, Skipper added.
FILE - Israeli soldiers gather at the gate to the Sde Teiman military base, as people protest in support of soldiers being questioned for detainee abuse, July 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov, File)

JERUSALEM (AP)  The Israeli Supreme Court considered a petition Wednesday to shutter a desert military prison where soldiers have been accused of abusing Palestinians, as a new video emerged purporting to show the sexual assault of a Palestinian detainee.

Rights groups have been engaged in a legal battle since June to shut down the detention facility, known as Sde Teiman, where Israel has held many Palestinians detained in Gaza during the 10-month war with Hamas. The groups claim that conditions at the facility are grave and that abuse by Israeli soldiers is common, basing their claims on testimony from released detainees and Israeli whistleblowers.

Calls for the prison's closure ramped up in late July, when Israeli military police arrested 10 soldiers from Sde Teiman on suspicion of their involvement in the alleged sexual assault of a Palestinian detainee at the facility. Five of the soldiers are no longer under investigation. A physician who identified himself as the person who reported the attack said last week that the detainee appeared to have been seriously sexually abused.

The soldiers detention triggered angry protests by supporters, and at least two government ministers demanded their release. The response underscored tensions between the military command and hard-line nationalists in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government who advocate even harsher treatment of Palestinians detained from Gaza.

Defense lawyer Nati Rom told The Associated Press that the soldiers were arrested about a month after the alleged attack and are accused of performing acts of sodomy on the detainee. He said the soldiers used force to defend themselves against a detainee who attacked them during a search, but did not sexually abuse him.

A video purporting to reveal the assault shows a group of masked soldiers wresting a detainee from the ground, where he and other Palestinians appear to be lying face down in a fenced-in pen, their arms cuffed above their heads. The soldiers take the detainee to an area of the pen they appear to cordon off using shields. Footage then shows about eight soldiers and a dog with the detainee, largely hidden from view by shields held up by some of the soldiers. Israels Channel 12 news, which broadcast the video, said it captures the moment of the attack.

Two soldiers who formerly worked at the facility and requested anonymity for fear of retribution told the AP they believed the video had been taken at Sde Teiman. The room in which the detainees appear, a corral topped by barbed wire, matches photos of the facility shared with the AP and the description of incarceration conditions that whistleblowers have previously described.

Military prosecutors stated that evidence brought forth in the case indicates "a reasonable suspicion of the commission of the acts," the Israeli military said Tuesday. The military did not comment on the video.

U.S. officials have seen the video, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Wednesday. He called the reports of sexual abuse horrific."

Prisoners human rights need to be respected in all cases and when there are alleged violations, the government of Israel needs to take steps to investigate those who are alleged to have committed abuses and, if appropriate, hold them accountable, Miller said.

Meanwhile, more information about the case has come to light from a doctor who treated the detainee in question.

Dr. Yoel Donchin, an Israeli anesthesiologist at the field hospital for Palestinian detainees at Sde Teiman, came forward Friday as the person who reported the case to the military authorities.

In an interview with Israeli public broadcaster Kan, Donchin said the detainee's life was in danger and that he was in need of emergency surgery after the attack.

During the interview, Donchin confirmed information attributed to an unidentified medical official who said the detainee had fractured ribs, showed signs of beating and bore evidence of being sodomized, leading to a tear in the lower part of the intestines.

Donchin said the detainee's case was the most extreme he had witnessed since working at the facility.

Naji Abbas, a case manager with Physicians for Human Rights-Israel, said the detainee was transferred to a civilian hospital outside Sde Teiman about a month ago because his injuries were too severe for treatment at the military facility. Abbas received his information from a medical source with knowledge of the case.

In a written submission to the Israeli Supreme Court in advance of Wednesday's hearing, state attorneys did not mention the military's sexual assault investigation, but insisted the rights groups' claims of deplorable conditions were inaccurate.

The Israeli organization arguing in court for the military prison's closure, the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, had alleged that detainees at the facility are punished with severe violence, including with attack dogs and sexual assault; made to sit on the ground blindfolded and handcuffed 24 hours a day; forbidden from moving or speaking and rarely shower or change clothes.

An investigation by the AP into the facility documented how detainees are blindfolded, handcuffed and diapered during medical treatment.

The state, in a written response, said detainees were given sufficient food and water, showered regularly, accessed medical treatment as needed, and were blindfolded and handcuffed because of concerns that they could harm staff. The state said a new wing of Sde Teiman set to open Sept. 5 would improve conditions, including adding a walking area for detainees. Additional improvements are expected to be made later this year, it said.

Following Wednesday's hearing, the court gave the state a week and a half to provide more information about conditions at the prison.

Sde Teiman was the main military prison holding Palestinians captured in large-scale raids on the Gaza Strip. Israel began moving detainees out of the facility following the rights groups petition to shut it down. State filings show 28 detainees remain.

Under Israeli law, Palestinians from Gaza can be held at the facility, and other military detention camps, without a detention order, trial or charge for over a month. Many Palestinian detainees have spent weeks in the facility before being released back to Gaza after Israeli authorities deemed them unaffiliated with militant groups.

___

This story has been edited to correct the name of the organization Physicians for Human Rights-Israel. ___

Associated Press reporters Tia Goldenberg and Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel; and Jack Jeffery in Ramallah, West Bank, contributed to this report.
Mourners carry the bodies of five Palestinians during their funeral, draped in flags of the Hamas and Islamic Jihad militant groups, killed by an Israeli strike on a vehicle in the West Bank city of Jenin, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Majdi Mohammed)

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken says the newly chosen Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has the power to ensure that a cease-fire deal is reached for the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. The Palestinian militant group on Tuesday chose Sinwar, its top official in Gaza who masterminded the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, after political leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed July 31 in Iran by a presumed Israeli strike.

Regional tensions have soared after Haniyeh's killing, which Iran blamed on Israel, and retaliation has been expected. Concerns are also high after Israel killed a top Hezbollah commander in Lebanon last week.

Amid diplomatic efforts, U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Tuesday about their hopes for a cease-fire deal calming tensions in the Middle East. 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.

Gaza faces a severe humanitarian crisis with Israeli restrictions on aid and ongoing fighting limiting access to crucial medical, food and other supplies. The Health Ministry says the death toll in the territory is nearing 40,000.

___

Heres the latest:

Egypt tells airlines to avoid flying over Tehran for a 3-hour window on Thursday

CAIRO  As tensions between Israel and Iran escalate, Egypt has issued a safety notice warning all of its carriers to avoid Iranian air space for a three-hour window early Thursday.

A NOTAM, or notice to air missions, that was posted for pilots Wednesday states that all Egyptian carriers should avoid Tehrans Flight Information Region and that no flight plan will be accepted overflying such territory between 1:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. GMT Thursday morning.

In a statement, Egypts Civil Aviation Ministry said the warning came after Iran warned all airliners flying over the Iranian territories about military exercises on Wednesday and Thursday.

OPSGroup, an organization for the aviation industry, said in an alert posted on social media platform X Wednesday that such a (NOTAM) from Egypt is very unusual.

It is possible that this is an indicator of an Iranian response to Israel, and in turn a potentially large set of airspace disruptions  at the same time, there may be another reason, OPSGroup wrote, adding that it urged close monitoring.

Ian Petchenik, director of communications at Flightradar24, agreed that the NOTAM was unusual -- but said its not surprising that Egypt would want to prevent any of its aircraft from any danger given developments in the region seen over recent weeks. Still, he found the notice to be interesting because, generally speaking, Egyptian carriers already avoid Iranian air space, he said.

What were seeing now is normal traffic for the region, the time of day (and) time of week, Petchenik told The Associated Press on Wednesday afternoon. But if carriers like Emirates, which regularly fly through regions airspace, alter their paths -- or we stop seeing aircraft in western Iran and Iraq ahead of any additional NOTAMs then thats an indication that airlines are taking this very seriously, he said.

Petchenik and others note that several airlines have already individually alerted or changed select flight paths in the Middle East over the last two weeks  with some temporarily suspending flights in and out of Israel and Lebanon as well. On Wednesday, Reuters reported that Lufthansa group extended its avoidance of Iranian and Iraqi airspace up to and including August 13.

The Germany-based air travel giant said it would also suspend flights to and from Tel Aviv, Tehran, Beirut, Amman and the Iraqi city of Erbil up to and including Aug. 13, Reuters reported, citing its latest security analysis.

Lufthansa did not immediately respond to the APs request for comment Wednesday.

France's Macron urges Iran's president to do everything in his power to avoid escalation

PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macron had a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during which he expressed his deep concern at the rising tensions in the region, Macrons office said in a statement.

Macron called on Pezeshkian to do everything in his power to avoid a new military escalation, which would be in nobodys interest, including Irans, and would do lasting damage to regional stability, the statement said.

The French president also reiterated Frances position in favor of an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and a firm refusal of any escalation with Lebanon. Macron called for the immediate release of French nationals held hostage in Iran, the statement said.

Macron spoke to Jordan's King Abdullah II, Emirati President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman earlier this week.

Hamas praises Turkey for joining South Africas genocide lawsuit against Isreal

Hamas on Wednesday welcomed Turkeys decision to join South Africas genocide lawsuit against Isreal at the International Court of Justice.

The Palestinian militant group said the Turkish move affirms President Recep Tayyip Erdogans support to the Palestine cause.

Turkey on Wednesday became the latest nation seeking to participate in the case. Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Nicaragua and Libya have also asked to join the case.

Erdogan, one of the fiercest critics of Israels actions in Gaza, has accused Israel of genocide, has called for it to be punished in international courts and has criticized Western nations for backing Israel.

Israel says a drone strike killed a Hezbollah commander in southern Lebanon

NAHARIYA, Israel  Israel's military says it has killed a Hezbollah commander in an airstrike in southern Lebanon, as tensions rise along the Israel-Lebanon border.

The army said Hassan Fares Jeshi was killed in a drone attack in the town of Jouayyas and described him as a commander in the militant groups anti-tank missile unit. Hezbollah confirmed Jeshis death but gave no details about his position.

There have been months of near-daily attacks along the border. Both sides are bracing for a potentially significant escalation after the killings last week of a top Hezbollah commander in Beirut and the Hamas political leader in Iran.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has vowed to retaliate against Israel for the strike in Beirut no matter the consequences." Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned that Nasrallah might cause Lebanon to pay very, very heavy prices" and warned that the process may deteriorate into war. Thats not theoretical, its real, he said.

Israeli airstrikes kill 8 in Khan Younis as Gaza toll nears 40,000

CAIRO  Hospital authorities say two Israeli airstrikes have killed at least eight people in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis. The first strike hit a house in a refugee camp in the city's west, killing three people, according to Nasser hospital, where the bodies were taken. A second strike hit tents for displaced people in the Absa area east of Khan Younis, killing five.

The overall Palestinian death toll from the Israel-Hamas war has risen to at least 39,677, Gaza's Health Ministry says, with another 91,645 wounded. The ministry doesn't distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count.

Protesters disrupt Israeli court hearing about alleged abuse of Palestinian detainees

JERUSALEM  Protesters disrupted an Israeli Supreme Court hearing Wednesday about a shadowy military facility where Israel has held Palestinian detainees throughout the war in Gaza.

The protesters yelled Shame! as the attorney for a number of Israeli human rights groups argued that the Sde Teiman facility should be closed permanently over repeated allegations of detainee abuse. An Associated Press investigation into the facility, as well as others by rights groups, found detainees endured abysmal conditions there.

The Israeli military said July 29 that it detained nine soldiers for questioning following allegations of substantial abuse of a detainee at Sde Teiman, located in southern Israel. The arrests prompted an outcry from right-wing government officials, and several hundred protesters swarmed the military base where the detained soldiers were held, calling the arrests an affront to their service.

On Tuesday night, Israels Channel 12 aired what it said was security camera footage from Sde Teiman that showed several soldiers moving a detainee to the side of a large hall where other detainees are seen laying on the floor on their fronts with their hands over their heads. In footage from a different angle, the soldiers are shown in a huddle and lifting up protective shields, apparently concealing the detainee from view, the report said. Channel 12 said the video was part of the investigation into alleged sexual assault.

The military has generally denied ill-treatment of Palestinian detainees, though a United Nations human rights office issued a report accusing Israel of mistreating Palestinian prisoners. Following the accusations of harsh treatment that prompted this court case, Israel said it was transferring the bulk of Palestinian detainees out of Sde Teiman and upgrading it. According to testimony during the hearing, there are currently around 30 Palestinians being held at Sde Teiman on a daily basis.

The human rights organizations that brought the case argued that the entire facility should be closed because it does not meet minimum humanitarian standards for detainees. It was not immediately clear when a ruling was expected.

Turkey will submit a request to join the genocide case against Israel

ANKARA, Turkey  Turkey will file a request Wednesday with a United Nations court to join South Africas genocide lawsuit against Israel, a Turkish official said.

The declaration of intervention will be submitted at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, the official said on condition of anonymity in line with regulations that bar officials from speaking to the media without prior authorization.

South Africa brought a case to the International Court of Justice late last year, accusing Israel of violating the genocide convention through its military operations in Gaza. Nicaragua, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, Spain and Palestinian officials have sought to join the case. The courts decision on their requests is still pending. If admitted to the case, the countries would be able to make written submissions and speak at public hearings.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has frequently compared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler, accused his country of genocide, called for it to be punished in international courts, and criticized Western nations for backing Israel.

Israel has strongly rejected accusations of genocide and has argued that the war in Gaza is a legitimate defensive action against Hamas militants for their Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people and took 250 hostages.

Preliminary hearings have already been held in the genocide case against Israel, but the court is expected to take years to reach a final decision.

___

Associated Press journalist Suzan Fraser contributed.

US ambassador to Japan skips atomic bomb memorial in Nagasaki because Israel not invited

TOKYO  United States Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel will skip this years atomic bombing memorial service in Nagasaki because Israel was not invited, the embassy said Wednesday.

Emanuel will not attend the event because it was politicized by Nagasakis decision not to invite Israel, the embassy said. He will instead honor the victims of the atomic bomb dropped by the United States on Hiroshima on Aug. 9, 1945, at a ceremony at a Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Some 70,000 people were killed, and Japan surrendered soon after on Aug. 15, 1945, ending World War II and the countrys nearly half-century of aggression in Asia.

Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki indicated in July his reluctance to invite Israel, and announced last week that it was not invited, noting concern for possible unforeseen situations. Nagasaki hoped to conduct the ceremony in a peaceful and solemn atmosphere, he said.

In contrast, Hiroshima invited the Israeli ambassador to Japan to Tuesdays ceremony, among 50,000 attendants that also included Emanuel and other envoys, though Palestinian representatives were not invited. The United States dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, killing 140,000 people and destroying the city.

US-led airstrikes hit Houthi-controlled territory, Iran-backed rebels say

CAIRO  Yemens Houthis say a United States-led coalition carried out two airstrikes late Tuesday in territory controlled by the Iran-backed rebels.

The region is bracing for a potential counterattack by Iran and its allies following the killing of top militants in Beirut and Tehran, in strikes attributed to Israel.

The Houthis military media office said the strikes occurred in the Taiz province without providing further detail. There was no immediate comment from the U.S. military.

The Houthis have launched several long-range missile and drone attacks targeting Israel since the start of the war in Gaza and have attacked international shipping in the Red Sea, saying they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians. A U.S.-led coalition began launching airstrikes against the rebels in Yemen in January.

Israel has intercepted nearly all the projectiles fired from Yemen, but a rare direct hit on Tel Aviv in July killed one person and wounded 10. Israel responded with airstrikes on Yemen that the Houthi-run Health Ministry said killed six people and wounded more than 80.

The Houthis paused their attacks for around two weeks but launched a missile at a container ship over the weekend.

Israel issues new evacuation orders for an area in northern Gaza

JERUSALEM  The Israeli military issued new evacuation orders Wednesday for an area in northern Gaza that was heavily bombed at the start of the war some 10 months ago.

The military said it would respond to a Hamas rocket attack from the Beit Hanoun area the day before and urged residents to relocate to Gaza City, large areas of which have been destroyed.

Beit Hanoun, which is close to the border, was one of the first targets of the massive bombardment and ground invasion launched after Hamas Oct. 7 attack, which triggered the war.

Israeli forces have repeatedly returned to areas where past air and ground operations caused widespread destruction, as militants have regrouped. The vast majority of Gazas 2.3 million people have been displaced within the narrow coastal strip since the start of the war  often multiple times. Hundreds of thousands are sheltering in crowded tent camps.

Hamas new political leader has the power to ensure cease-fire deal, Blinken says

WASHINGTON  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind of the Oct. 7 attack who is becoming Hamas new political leader, 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.
Israel should have 'zero tolerance' if soldiers sexually assaulted Palestinian prisoners, says US

By Simon Lewis

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Israel should fully investigate allegations of sexual abuse against Palestinian detainees by its soldiers, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Wednesday, calling for "zero tolerance" for perpetrators.

Asked about a video, aired by Israel's Channel 12, that appeared to show soldiers taking a detainee out of sight of surveillance cameras to carry out abuses and about broader allegations of abuses against prisoners, Miller said U.S. officials had reviewed the video.

We have seen the video, and reports of sexual abuse of detainees are horrific. They ought to be investigated fully by the government of Israel, by the IDF," Miller said, referring to the Israel Defense Forces.

"There ought to be zero tolerance for sexual abuse, rape of any detainee, period. ... If there are detainees who have been sexually assaulted or raped, the government of Israel, the IDF need to fully investigate those actions and hold anyone responsible accountable to the full extent of the law.

The White House also called the reports of rape, torture and abuse of Palestinian prisoners "deeply concerning."

"It is essential that the rule of law and due process prevail," said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre.

A spokesperson for Israel's embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday.

But the Israeli military, which runs some detention facilities where Palestinian prisoners have been held, said in response to earlier allegations that it operated according to the rule of law and any specific claims of abuse were investigated.

The video appearing to show an incident of abuse emerged amid an investigation by Israeli authorities into alleged abuse of Palestinian prisoners by soldiers.

The investigation sparked protests by right-wing Israelis, who broke into two military facilities after military police detained nine soldiers over allegations of severe abuse of a detainee captured in Gaza by army reservists at the Sde Teiman detention facility in southern Israel.

It is appropriate that the IDF in this case has announced an investigation has arrested a number of people who are alleged to have been involved," the State Department's Miller said.

"I wont speak to the outcome of that investigation, but it ought to proceed swiftly, and if they are determined to be in violation of criminal laws or violations of the IDFs code of conduct, then ,of course, they ought to be held accountable.

Israeli rights group B'Tselem said in a report on Monday that Israel has conducted a systematic policy of prisoner abuse and torture since the start of the Gaza war in October, subjecting Palestinian detainees to acts ranging from arbitrary violence to sexual abuse.

(Reporting by Simon Lewis; additional reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Steve Holland; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
Israeli attack kills two, wounds six in southern Lebanon

Paintings of Palestinian flag and al-Aqsa mosque are seen on the Lebanese side of an Israeli erected wall along the Lebanese-Israeli border in the southern village of Adaisseh, where the Israeli settlement of Mutelh is seen on the right. Marwan Naamani/dpa

At least two people were killed Wednesday in an Israeli attack in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese health ministry said.

It added that were also six injured in the same attack that targeted a motorcycle in the town of Juwaya in south Lebanon.

It was not immediately clear whether the victims were members of Hezbollah.

The Israeli military did not initially comment.

Hezbollah in Lebanon and Israel have been fighting daily firefights since the Gaza war began in October.

More than 120 civilians were killed, most of them on the Lebanese side. In addition, more than 350 Hezbollah members and Israeli soldiers were killed.

The Israeli erected border wall and an Israeli military post are seen from a deserted road of the Lebanese southern border village of al Bustan. p
German Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius (R), meets Minister of Defense of Israel Yoav Gallant at the Israeli Ministry of Defense. Fabian Sommer/dpa

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has spoken with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius about the tense situation in the Middle East.

After the phone call on Wednesday Gallant spoke of an "important discussion with my friend." He had informed Pistorius "about the security developments and threats from Iran and its allies against Israel and the entire region."

He thanked the German minister for standing by Israel. "The free world must unite against the biggest troublemaker and exporter of terror - Iran," Gallant said, according to his office.

Israeli army radio reported that Gallant had spoken to the defence ministers of the US, Britain, Germany and Italy in recent days as part of an attempt to "recruit as many partners as possible for an international coalition that would support Israel."

A spokesperson for the German Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday in Berlin that the talks between Gallant and Pistorius were about an overview of the situation.

The Israeli military is currently on high alert. The country is expecting a retaliatory strike from Iran and its allies in the region.

Tehran has announced "harsh punishment" for Israel after the political leader of the Palestinian organization Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was deliberately killed in the Iranian capital Tehran a week ago. Iran and Hamas hold Israel responsible for the attack.

Just a few hours earlier, Israel killed the senior Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in the Lebanese capital Beirut with an airstrike. The Shiite Hezbollah militia is one of Iran's most loyal allies.
Scorpio Tankers Inc.'s (NYSE:STNG) recent weak earnings report didn't cause a big stock movement. We think that investors are worried about some weaknesses underlying the earnings.

See our latest analysis for Scorpio Tankers

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Our examination of Scorpio Tankers has focussed on certain factors that can make its earnings look better than they are. But there are plenty of other ways to inform your opinion of a company. Some people consider a high return on equity to be a good sign of a quality business. 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.

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
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

Military Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi said on Wednesday that Israel is more determined than ever to hunt down Yehya al-Sinwar after he was named the top Hamas leader.

Al-Sinwar's selection on Tuesday as the new head of the Political Bureau of the Palestinian Islamist group came after the previous office holder, Ismail Haniyeh, was assassinated in Iran last week.

Al-Sinwar had previously been the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, where he has eluded Israeli forces for the past 10 months of war. He was one of the masterminds of the October 7 attacks on southern Israel that left some 1,200 people dead.

"The change in his title not only doesn't prevent us from pursuing him, it motivates us, and we will make the effort to find him, to target him, and for them to replace the head of the Political Bureau once again," Halevi said while visiting Tel Nof Air Force Base.

"We have carried out very important operations in recent weeks, eliminating the most senior commanders of our most problematic enemies, and we are not stopping."

As fears mount that a retaliatory attack by Iran and its regional allies on Israel is imminent, the general added that Israel was at "peak readiness, both in offence and in defence."
A rally in support of in vitro fertilization outside the Alabama State House in Montgomery, Ala., on Feb. 28, 2024. Credit - Charity RachelleThe New York Times/Redux

In February, a horrified Elizabeth Carr scrolled through headline after headline about a pause on in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures in Alabama. The Alabama Supreme Court had ruled that frozen embryos have the legal rights of children, a decision that meant fertility providers could feasibly face prosecution if they destroyed one. Rather than take that risk, some fertility clinics halted IVF services entirely.

Carr, who in 1981 became the first baby in the U.S. born using IVF, felt like an endangered species. When Carr was born, IVFa process of fertilizing eggs outside a womans body, then implanting a resulting embryo in her uteruswas new and largely unknown. Carrs parents, who desperately wanted children but struggled to have them naturally, were willing to face public scrutiny and repeatedly travel from their home in Massachusetts to a pioneering clinic in Virginia to try the cutting-edge procedure. IVFs success for the Carrs led not only to their daughters historic birth, but also compelled Elizabeth to become an advocate for reproductive rights when she grew up. Over those recent days in February, when patients in Alabama were shut out of fertility clinics, Carr acutely felt the importance of her work. Moments like those, she says, are why we advocate so loudly.

Elizabeth Carr, pictured with her parents Judith and Roger Carr, in 1981 became the first U.S. baby born using IVF. Bettmann Archive/Getty Images

After public outcry and bipartisan pushback, Alabama lawmakers quickly passed protections for IVF providers, and services resumed. But IVF is still under attack.

Despite the backlash, judges in Alabama declined to reconsider their controversial ruling. And more than a dozen other U.S. states have laws in place that could be interpreted as bestowing personhood rights on an embryo, even if it has not yet resulted in a pregnancy. Courts in other states havent yet applied these laws in ways that directly threaten IVFalthough Louisiana law forces fertility providers to ship embryos out of state for destructionbut the possibility is there if the wrong case comes before the wrong judge, says Rebecca Reingold, an associate director at the ONeill Institute for National and Global Health Law at the Georgetown University Law Center.

Right now, it is politically unpopular to attack IVF, a technology that has given life to millions of people and hope to some of the one in six adults worldwide with infertility. Only 8% of U.S. adults actively oppose access to IVF, according to recent polling, and even lawmakers from states that have cracked down on abortion, like Texas, have introduced bills to protect IVF.

And yet, in June, Republican senatorsincluding former President Donald Trumps current running mate, J.D. Vancevoted against a bill that would have established a federal right to IVF care. The same month, members of the Southern Baptist church voted to oppose the use of IVF, a decision that has no legal ramifications but signals a growing willingness among religious conservatives to embrace prenatal personhood concepts that effectively place IVF in the same category as abortion.

How did we get here? And where are we going?

Doctors from the Alabama Fertility Clinic look on and takes photos as lawmakers vote on SB159, a bill providing protections for IVF providers, in the House Chambers in Montgomery, Ala., on March 6, 2024. Butch DillAP

Growing anti-IVF sentiment

The concept of prenatal personhood isnt new, but it has historically been unpopular. In a 2013 legal journal article, reproductive-rights expert Maya Manian argued thats because public concern over the side effects of personhood lawssuch as infringing on fertility care, contraception access, and womens health care more broadlyseems to have persuaded even those opposed to abortion to reject personhood legislation. It was, in other words, a step too far for most people.

In a relatively short span of time, however, the idea has gone from radical or fringe to one that is gaining ground, Reingold says. It has even transcended the anti-abortion movement, with ex-spouses in some cases using the concept to argue that frozen embryos should be treated by the courts as children, not marital property, during divorce proceedings. As such ideas snowball, IVF may become the next frontier in the battle over reproductive rights, advocates and scholars say.

Read More: The Silent Shame of Male Infertility

It's clear to usit always has beenthat the anti-abortion movement has not, and will not, stop their efforts at limiting or banning abortion, says Karla Torres, who leads the nonprofit Center for Reproductive Rights work on assisted reproductive technology. They are squarely targeting reproductive freedom more broadly," drawing everything from IVF to contraception into the fray.

If IVF becomes harder to access, its hard to overstate the effect for American families and culture at large. About 2% of babies born in the U.S. in recent yearsnearly 100,000 annuallyarrived with the help of IVF. But the technologys impact transcends statistics. In about a half century of use, it has reshaped what it means to be a parent, who gets to be one, and howprogress thats now under threat.

A collection of needles, injections, syringes, and old pill bottles used during a patient's IVF journey in Lemoyne, Penn., on March 9, 2024. Hannah YoonThe Washington Post/Getty Images

A confusing position

In some ways, IVF is an unlikely target. The technology enables people to have badly wanted biological children, a sentiment that could be seen as having a conservative traditional family aspect to it, says Amanda Roth, an associate professor of philosophy and womens and gender studies at the State University of New York at Geneseo. The importance of having children is a regular conservative talking pointsee: Vance recently calling child-free women cat ladies without a "direct stake" in the future of Americaand IVF makes it possible for more people to do that.

But many in the anti-abortion movement argue that life begins at the moment of conceptionthat is, the moment sperm fertilizes an egg to create an embryo, either the old-fashioned way or in a laboratory. (A fertilized egg is considered an embryo until the end of the 10th week of pregnancy, when it becomes a fetus.)

To that effect, about a third of U.S. states currently have laws that establish prenatal personhood rights at some stage of pregnancy, usually as a means of curtailing access to abortion by establishing that terminating a pregnancy is tantamount to killing a child. Nine of these laws, such as those in Arkansas, Kansas, and Tennessee, are either sweeping enough or vaguely worded enough that they could put IVF services at risk, according to analysis from the nonprofit Pregnancy Justice provided to TIME. Six additional states, including the Dakotas, Michigan, and Oklahoma, have either feticide or wrongful death laws broad enough to potentially apply to embryos. And theres always the possibility of new laws: already in 2024, more than a dozen bills focused on prenatal personhood have been introduced across the U.S.

Read More: The Abortion Fight Isnt a War on Women. Its a War on Poor Women

Greer Donley, an associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law who studies abortion law, doesnt think curtailing access to IVF is a priority for the anti-abortion movement, but rather an unfortunate side effect that [anti-abortion advocates] havent been able to account for. Its a narrative problem: to argue an embryo in a mothers womb is a person, but one sitting in a fertility clinic freezer isnt, would weaken the movements argument. So, despite the cognitive dissonance, IVF has become collateral damage in the abortion wars, Donley believes.

Graphic for TIME by Lon Tweeten and Jamie Ducharme; Getty Images

Whether the situation was intentional or not, threats to IVF are real. The Alabama Supreme Court demonstrated as much in February, when it ruled that the states Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to not-yet-implanted embryos, prompting fertility clinics to pause IVF services for fear that patients or providers could be legally liable if embryos were destroyed in the course of care. Thats not an irrational fear: embryos are destroyed all the time in the fertility world, either purposely (perhaps because a patient no longer wishes to pay for storage, or because the embryo is unlikely to result in a healthy pregnancy) or because of human error.

Accidents happen, says Dr. Gerard Letterie, a reproductive endocrinologist at Seattle Reproductive Medicine who has written about the potential impact of fetal personhood laws on clinicians. An embryo could be destroyed through an innocent mistake, like someone tripping while carrying a petri dish. If that were to be made a felony charge, thats a big deal, Letterie says.

In that scenario, clinics might stop services entirely to avoid putting providers in legal jeopardy, as happened in Alabama. Or, even if services proceeded, providers might stop practicing in states with punitive laws, Letterie says, making access to fertility care as scattershot as access to abortion care. Already, fertility clinics tend to be clustered in wealthier urban areas.

Read More: Why It's So Hard to Have Your Fertility Tested

Even short of criminal charges for providers, prenatal personhood laws could affect fertility practices, Letterie says. He can imagine policies that limit the number of eggs that may be fertilized per cycle to avoid creating extra embryos that ultimately end up discarded. Such policiesthe likes of which have already been implemented elsewhere in the world, such as in Maltacould reduce the odds of patients getting pregnant, since not all embryos are viable, and force people to go through more rounds of treatment, making IVF more expensive and inaccessible than it already is. IVF can already cost upward of $10,000 per cycle without insurance, and coverage varies by state and insurance provider. If costs go up even more, Letterie says, IVF would be inaccessible to virtually everyone who isnt mega-wealthy or lucky to have excellent health insurance.

Even taking finances out of the picture, threats to IVF have particularly high stakes for certain people. Those who stand to lose the most are those for whom IVF has been revolutionary over its half century of use: namely same-sex couples, people with medical infertility, and those who have decided to have children without a partner or later in life. The existence of reproductive technologies has opened up new horizons for family life, says Marcia Inhorn, a medical anthropologist at Yale University and author of Motherhood on Ice: The Mating Gap and Why Women Freeze Their Eggs. In a future without reliable access to IVF, the possibilities of what families can look like might shrink.

An embryologist works in the IVF lab at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston on March 15, 2024. David L. RyanThe Boston Globe/Getty Images

A crossroads for U.S. culture

IVF and other fertility services helped break open the narrow definition of family that dominated for so longa married man and woman and their naturally conceived childrento reveal a whole world of options. A mother can be 45 and single, even if shes survived cancer or had her fallopian tubes removed or needs to use a donor egg to get pregnant. Same-sex couples can use "reciprocal" IVF to incorporate both of their genetic material. A child can even have three biological parents, a controversial technique that is not currently legal in the U.S. but is in several other countries.

Weve seen a significant diversification in how people understand kinship, relatedness, and parenting, says Sarah Franklin, who directs the Reproductive Sociology Research Group at the University of Cambridge in the U.K.

This progress has not been equally felt around the world. Compared to the U.S., Europe and Asia have historically employed stricter regulations on the use of reproductive technologies like IVF. Although some of those policies have loosened in recent years, single and older women, trans and non-binary people, and/or same-sex couples are still barred from using reproductive technologies in countries including China, Poland, Turkey, and Italy. And in many poorer countries, including most of the ones in Africa, there is next to no access to IVF at all.

Even in the U.S., where IVF is much more broadly used, reproductive medicine has not wiped out persistent stereotypes and social norms, says Arthur Greil, a professor emeritus at Alfred University in New York and author of Not Yet Pregnant: Infertile Couples in Contemporary America. People are willing to pay IVFs exorbitant fees, at least in part, because society still emphasizes the importance of a genetic relationship between parent and child, Greil says. And, he says, the knee-jerk assumption is still that a child has both a mother and father. If you are a single woman with a child, people just assume that you must have been divorced, Greil says. Its become impolite to ask questions like, Where is the babys father? But people still have the questions.

Read More: I Was Told I Was Too Fat to Freeze My Eggs

Still, IVF has made what was once impossibleor, at the very least, difficult or done outside the scope of mainstream medicinepossible for many people. Sex, age, and medical diagnoses dont necessarily close the road to biological parenthood anymore; they are just speed bumps. Reproductive technologies are expensive and imperfect, working only about half the time in the best circumstances and becoming even less of a sure bet among patients who are older or relying on donated embryos. But it has made the possibility of biological parenthood real for swaths of the population that, a century ago, would have had zero or few options. Fertility medicine has made all of us parents-in-waiting, says Laura Mamo, a professor of public health at San Francisco State University who studies the intersection of sexuality and medicine.

The trickle-down effects can be seen throughout U.S. culture. Women, no longer so pressured by biological clocks to end their careers just as theyre advancing, now outnumber men in the college-educated workforce, and some employers offer fertility benefits to entice workers to stay longer. People are getting married later, if ever, freed from the need to settle for an imperfect partner to have a family. Queer parenthood is on the rise, and same-sex couples are making fertility equality a new social-justice issue, fighting for fair treatment by insurance providers and clinicians. Scientific advances in fertility medicine, like the ability to pick embryos by sex, are even raising important new bioethical dilemmas.

IVF is not solely responsible for those shiftsFranklin sees it more as a mirror reflecting major societal changes and conditionsbut it plays a part. Making the technology harder or impossible to access, then, would have profound effects on countless people, particularly those from marginalized groups. And that, Mamo says, may be exactly the point for some people pushing forward the prenatal personhood movement.

Its not really about personhood, Mamo says. Its really about this expansion of gender and family and sexuality and autonomy over peoples bodies.

Elizabeth Carr speaks with Sen. Tim Kaine in Washington, D.C., on March 7, 2024, the day before attending the State of the Union as Kaine's guest. Josh MorganUSA TODAY/Reuters

Fighting back

Already, legislators and reproductive-rights advocates are preparing for battle. In his first speech as Kamala Harris' vice presidential running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz reaffirmed his commitment to protecting reproductive health care including IVF, a technology that he and his wife used to have their daughter, Hope. "When Vice President [Harris] and I talk about freedom, we talk about the freedom to make your own health care decisions," Walz said.

Elsewhere, the Center for Reproductive Rights has for years been working with partner advocacy groups and legislators to expand access to IVF by implementing new state policies around fertility coverage and broadening those that already exist, which are often written in ways that exclude same-sex couples or people who arent cisgender. That work is continuing in earnest, Torres says. And in the aftermath of the Alabama decision, lawmakers in at least a dozen states introduced bills meant to either protect IVF providers from liability or specify that embryos outside the human body do not legally qualify as people, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive-rights nonprofit. A broader package of pro-IVF bills moved forward at the federal level before being blocked by Republican senators in June.

Along with legislative solutions, the reproductive-rights movement is also trying to develop legal defenses that can be used to stop prenatal personhood arguments in court, says Donley, the Pittsburgh law professor. Judges may hold long-term appointments and dont necessarily need to win electionswhich means some can stray from public opinion with fewer consequences than elected officials. I feel confident right now that the politics of reproductive rights are such that Republican legislatures arent going to pass anti-IVF bills, Donley says. Republican judges are another story. They get to do whatever they want.

Read More: I Dont Have Faith in Doctors Anymore. Women Say They Were Pressured Into Long-Term Birth Control

That means people who want to protect IVF access will need compelling legal arguments, says Georgetowns Reingold. One, she says, could be pointing out the slippery slope of prenatal personhood. If an embryo is considered a person in one legal context, it could be considered one in many: a pregnant person could arguably claim their embryo as a tax dependent, a beneficiary for public assistance, or (in a lower-stakes scenario) another person for the purposes of driving in a carpool lane. Pointing out consequences for other areas of the law that havent necessarily been completely thought through could be an effective strategy for limiting the influence of fetal personhood arguments, Reingold says.

Another possible consequence: if an embryo is legally considered a person, a pregnant person could feasibly be criminalized for a miscarriage or pregnancy complication, says Kulsoom Ijaz, a senior staff attorney at Pregnancy Justice. Ijaz says shes cautiously optimistic that pointing out such dystopian ripple effects would sway some judges and lawmakers. Its a matter of summoning defiant hope so that wemake sure there is no more rollback on peoples most basic civil and human rights, she says.

There is some precedent to back Ijaz optimism. Even in the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, the justices did not take a position on if and when prenatal life is entitled to any of the rights enjoyed after birth, which could foreshadow a broader hesitation for judges throughout the U.S. court system to consider questions of legal personhood.

That reluctance may not last forever. But in the meantime, IVF advocates like Carr, the first U.S. person born using the technology, are leaning on some of the best tools they have: their own stories, which underscore how life-changing IVF can be for individuals, couples, and families. I always knew there were people who didnt agree with how I was born. Around age 10, I realized I can potentially educate people, Carr says. I feel very strongly, and I always have, that people fear things they dont understand.

The stakes of that education campaign are high. Carrs birth was a historic first for the U.S. I do not want to think about who could potentially be the last, she says.

Write to Jamie Ducharme at jamie.ducharme@time.com.
Ohio Senator J.D. Vance has gone on the attack against Minnesota Governor Tim Walzs military serviceeven if hes not the right guy to be pointing the finger.

When were you ever in war? Vance asked rhetorically at a Michigan rally on Wednesday. What bothers me about Tim Walz is this stolen valor garbage. Do not pretend to be something that youre not.

And if he wants to criticize me for getting an Ivy League education, Im proud of the fact that my Mawmaw supported me, that I was able to make something of myselfId be ashamed if I was him and I lied about my military service like he did, Vance continued.

Vance attacking Walz: Whats bothers me about Tim Walz is this stolen valor garbage. Do not pretend to be something that youre not. pic.twitter.com/VGTNIngfY2  Acyn (@Acyn) August 7, 2024

When the U.S. Marine Corps asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it, Vance said. When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, he dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him.



You know what really bothers me about Tim Walz?



When the US Marine Corps asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it.



When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, he dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him. I think that's shameful. pic.twitter.com/Dq9xjn4R51  JD Vance (@JDVance) August 7, 2024

Vance has offered veterans another snapshot of executive-level representation since he was selected as Donald Trumps number two on the Republican ticket. But his service in the Marines wasnt exactly the boots-on-the-ground experience that hes now framing it as. Instead, Vance served a single four-year enlistment in the public affairs section in the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, and wrote in his memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, that he was lucky to escape any real fighting.



Meanwhile, Walz served as an enlisted soldier in the Army National Guard for two decades, ultimately attaining the rank of command sergeant major. He enlisted in the Nebraska National Guard at the age of 17 and transferred to the Minnesota National Guard 15 years later in 1996.

As part of the job, he responded to natural disasters, served with the European Security Force to support the war in Afghanistan, and was stationed around Europe to train with NATO militaries. He received several Army medals and retired as a master sergeant shortly before running for Congress in 2006. Walz has repeatedly said he left the military in order to run for office, not out of cowardice, as Vance implies.

Bringing the military disparity to the foreground of the election is, ultimately, an interesting choice for Vance and Trump, considering that a conveniently timed bone spur diagnosis helped the Republican presidential candidate skirt the Vietnam War draft in 1968.
U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance speaks at a rally in south Philadelphia on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, during his first visit to Pennsylvania since former President Donald Trump selected Vance as his running mate. (Capital-Star photo by Peter Hall)

PHILADELPHIA  U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) heaped blame on Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris for crime and economic issues he claimed stem from the Biden administrations border policy in his first visit to Pennsylvania as former President Donald Trumps running mate.

At a rally where Vance took questions from reporters Tuesday in south Philadelphia, Vance was also critical of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who Harris announced hours earlier would be her choice for vice president.

Vance said Walzs record on transgender health care, protecting American jobs and handling of the civil unrest in Minneapolis after a city police officer murdered George Floyd would not endear him to voters in Philadelphia.

Do you think the Black business leaders in Minneapolis are grateful, the working class business leaders are grateful, that Tim Walz allowed rioters to burn down their businesses? Vance said when asked for his thoughts on Harris choice. Theres no way the American people are going to buy it.

Vance said Harris decision to run with Walz is illustrative of what he and Trump have characterized as her dangerously liberal policies.

When given an opportunity, she fits the needs of the most radical elements of her party. Thats exactly what she did here. Thats what shes going to keep doing as president, Vance said.

Vance, who built his brand on his working-class upbringing in rural Appalachia, was touted as a vice presidential nominee whose story would resonate with voters in rust-belt swing states like Pennsylvania and Michigan.

Addressing a crowd of about 350 people, Vance spoke about his childhood with a mother who struggled with addiction and is now nearing 10 years in recovery, recalling that he prayed for her to wake up after an overdose. At the start of his talk, Vance allowed two local families who had encountered similar struggles with addiction to share their stories of pain, hope and eventual loss.

Denise Trask, with her husband Mike by her side, spoke about the death of their daughter Jackie as a result of an overdose on heroin laced with fentanyl when she relapsed after two years in recovery.

The fentanyl that is flooding into our country, our cities, and our neighborhoods is killing thousands and thousands of people every day, Denise Trask said. Were losing our loved ones at an alarming rate.

Overdose deaths in the United States, including those involving opioids and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, decreased 3% to 107,543 in 2023, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

And although Trump and other Republicans have blamed U.S. border policy for allowing trafficking from Mexico, fentanyl enters the United States through U.S. ports of entry from a variety of sources that also include China, India and Canada, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

Ive got to admire the courage of the two families behind me, but I have to ask why is it necessary? Why are they suffering? Vance asked. The answer is because we have a leadership that is failing.

Vance on Tuesday claimed Harris was responsible for actions to open the southern border.

I want the leadership to make our streets safe where our kids can make a mistake without it taking their lives. I want a nation where the leaders put the interests of our citizens first and I want Donald J. Trump back in the White House, Vance said.

Republicans have falsely labeled Harris as the Biden administrations border czar, according to the nonpartisan, nonprofit political watchdog FactCheck.org. Harris was, in fact, responsible for a diplomatic mission to the nations where migrants originate and pass through to address the root causes of migration and improve those nations border enforcement.

With Pennsylvania considered a must-win for either party, the Trump campaign said it would park the first-term senator in Pennsylvania for the final months of the campaign.

Harris spoke at Temple Universitys Liacouras Center arena Tuesday evening, where she formally introduced Walz. Vances schedule for this week closely tracks Harris with both set to speak in Wisconsin and Michigan later this week.

Noting that Harris has not given an interview since before President Joe Biden ended his reelection campaign July 21, Vance said his strategy would be simple.

We know that there are six or seven states that will decide this election. We think it is shameful that Kamala Harris is running from tough questions from the media, Vance said. So Im going to go to every single battleground state that I can and Im going to answer tough questions and talk to people because that is the minimum you should do if you want to be president or vice president.

Trump lost his reelection bid in 2020 by a 64% margin in Philadelphia, although he won more than a dozen precincts in traditionally working-class south Philly as well as other parts of the city.

Harris campaign said Monday that Vances appearance was unlikely to smooth things over with Philadelphia voters.

Philly voters rejected Trump in 2020 because he failed them as president, presiding over record-high unemployment, overseeing all-time high levels of gun violence in Philly, and sending uninsured rates soaring while giving massive handouts to billionaires and big corporations, the campaigns Pennsylvania spokesperson Jack Doyle said in a statement.

Doyle added that Pennsylvania voters will reject the Heritage Foundations Project 2025 plan, which is described as a deeply conservative plan for the transition to a second Trump administration. Vance has worked to distance himself from the 1,000 page document and Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts in the last week after the Associated Press reported Vance had authored the foreword to Roberts upcoming book Dawns Early Light.

Trump has claimed that he has nothing to do with Project 2025 and doesnt know its authors, but CNN reported at least 140 people who worked in Trumps first administration were involved in the documents production.

Vance, a venture capitalist and author of Hillbilly Elegy, a memoir of growing up with a troubled family in small-town Ohio, emerged into politics as a vocal critic of Trump. Vance described himself in 2016 as a Never Trump guy and the former president as cultural heroin for offering empty promises to solve the nations problems.

By the time Vance ran for U.S. Senate in 2022, his views had evolved enough to overcome suspicion among members of his party and earn the support of national GOP groups that bankrolled his campaign. He defeated Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan and vaulted beyond his freshman status in the Senate as an ardent advocate for Trumps policies in Congress.

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.

Update: This story was updated at 2 p.m. August 6, 2024 and again at 4:40 p.m. with additional details from the rally.
Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance regularly texts infamous far-right troll Charles C. Johnson, a conspiracy theorist and Holocaust denier.



The Washington Post reports that Vance received a text message through the encrypted messaging app Signal from Johnson shortly after being elected to the Senate in 2022, and corresponded with the blogger for 20 months, until just weeks before Donald Trump chose Vance as his running mate.



The texting relationship between Vance and Johnson does not reflect well on the Ohio senator. Vance asked Johnsons opinion on everything from UFOs to aid to Ukraine to the Republican Partys relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Vance even appeared to accept advice from Johnson, including a suggestion that the senator should work to restrict foreign ownership of housing.



Johnson has promoted doubts about the Holocaust, created and promoted fake news stories about various politicians, and associated with neo-Nazis and white nationalists. But in their correspondence, Vance didnt appear to be worried about that, instead expressing concern that Johnson was collecting information about him.



If you are who you say you are then dont you have my phone tapped? Vance wrote to Johnson last fall, possibly alluding to the fact that Johnson has served as a federal informant in the past.



Ever since Vance was named as Trumps running mate, many of his unfavorable speeches and stances have come to light, from his views on people without children to his association with the conservative manifesto Project 2025. His polling numbers are underwater, and Republicans think Trump shouldnt have picked him. These latest revelations arent likely to help Vance or the Trump ticket, especially since Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz already has a groundswell of support.


The Trump campaign has sharpened its line of attack against Kamala Harris new running mate, Tim Walz, by accusing the Minnesota governor of dodging war service.

Walz served 24 years in the Minnesota National Guard, reaching the rank of command sergeant major and leading an artillery unit.

The attack centers on a claim that Walz quit his unit to avoid being deployed to Iraq, an attack which was deployed against him when he ran for governor in 2018, a race which he won.

When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? Republican vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance said Wednesday during a press conference. He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without hima fact hes been criticized for aggressively by many of the people he served with.

The attack has been lifted from an accusation lobbed in 2018 by a retired Guardsman who alleged the Democratic governor quit the Army after his National Guard unit was called to active duty.

What bothers me about Tim Walz is the stolen valor garbage, said Vance, who served as a combat correspondent for the Marines in Iraq. Do not pretend to be something that youre not.

The barrage against Walz has all the hallmarks of the Swift Boating of Democrat John Kerrys 2004 presidential chances, right down to its architect, Chris LaCivita, who happens to be Donald Trumps campaign manager.

The allegations were also featured in a Tuesday Republican National Committee press release toward the bottom of a laundry list of Walzs pitfalls.

Photo Illustration by The Daily Beast/Getty/Reuters

Walz lied about his own National Guard service, it read.

In a New York Post story published Tuesday, a one-time member of Walzs unit accused the governor of retiring from the Minnesota National Guard just before he was scheduled to deploy to Iraq in 2005. Walz ran for Congress the next year.

In 2018, during Walzs first bid for governor, the critic published a scathing letter alleging Walz quit after their unit received notice that it would soon be called to active duty. Media outlets picked up the allegations, as did his GOP rival during his reelection bid.

My record speaks for itself and my accomplishments in uniform speak for itself, and there's many people in this crowd, too, that I served with, Walz said in 2022.

Walz also suggested that year that the veteran who made the attack might just disagree with his politics. Another veteran from the governors unit said the accusation was ill-informed and possibly a product of personal grievance.

Republicans tactic of attacking Walzs military service is similar to the swiftboating strategy that helped sink John Kerry two decades ago. Back then, a group of swift boat veterans sought to discredit the Democratic nominees Naval record and medals with a smear campaign.

The architect of that plan was Chris LaCavita, who is now Donald Trumps top strategist.

When Harris introduced Walz in Philadelphia on Tuesday, her line referring to him as Sergeant Major Walz earned particularly loud applause. But the New York Post called that into question, as well, citing previous reporting suggesting his promotion to that rank was nullified when he retired.

The Harris-Walz campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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Theres very little the two men running to be the nations next vice president have in common, but the one thing they do share is a history of military service.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who as of Tuesday is running alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, served for 24 years as a member of the Army National Guard after voluntarily enlisting at the age of 17. Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), former President Donald Trumps running mate, served for four years as a member of the Marines.

On Wednesday, Vance took a swing at Walz over his military record, repeating viral claims that Walz had dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him to Iraq. Vance described Walzs military record as stolen valor garbage.

JD Vance accuses Tim Walz of "stolen valor":



"[Walz] said we shouldn't allow weapons that [he] used in war to be on America's streets.  When were you ever in war?  Do not pretend to be something that you're not." pic.twitter.com/TI09Yil0RL  The Recount (@therecount) August 7, 2024

As a member of the Army National Guard, Walz helped respond to major natural disasters, worked in firearm and artillery training, received commendations as a prolific sharpshooter, and was sent to Italy to support U.S. operations in Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2005, Walz ended his military career to pursue a successful run for Congress, he retired honorably with a slew of awards and medals and the rank of master sergeant  an administrative downgrade from command sergeant major, which he had been promoted to earlier in the year but had not completed training for.

Vances claim that Walz abandoned his unit to avoid deployment to Iraq  which has been echoed throughout the right  was directly countered by Army Lt. Col. Ryan Rossman, director of operations for the Minnesota National Guard, who spoke to HuffPost.

The unit received an alert order for mobilization to Iraq on July 14, 2005, Rossman said, two months after Walz retired. According to CNN, Walz first filed his paperwork to run for Congress in January of that same year, and  as several veterans have noted  the administrative process of a military retirement typically takes several months before approval. His unit would not deploy to Iraq until March 2006.

Vance also accused Walz of feigning a record in active combat: [Walz] said  and he was making a point about gun control  he said, We shouldnt allow weapons that I used in war to be on Americas streets. Well, I wonder, Tim Walz, when you ever in war?

The senator actually misquoted Walz in his screed. In the clip Vance was referencing, Walz says that he carried weapons of war, not that he used them, and that in war is the only place where those weapons are at. Given that Operation Enduring Freedom was a part of the post-9/11 War on Terror, and that Walz was deployed to Italy under it and likely had a service weapon, the claim that he is engaging in stolen valor holds little water.

Vance spoke on Wednesday as if he served more honorably than Walz, noting that he went to Iraq. I did it, I did what they asked me to do, and I did it honorably, he said The senator was deployed for six months in Iraq as a combat correspondent in 2005 as part of the Marines Public Affairs office. He  like Walz  never engaged in active combat and has stated that he was lucky to escape any real fighting during his deployment.

Walz has spoken at length about his service in the past, and its not the first time his political opponents have attempted to diminish his service. The claim that Walz abandoned his unit to avoid fighting in Iraq was leveled against him in 2018 and 2022, during his campaigns for the governorship and reelection, largely by former state Sen. Scott Jensen and Thomas Behrends, a former National Guardsman who was deployed to Iraq after Walzs retirement.

In 2022, former battalion commander Joseph Eustice, who served with Walz, told the Star Tribune that the accusations against Walz stemmed from ill-informed or sour-grapes soldiers who were passed over for promotions. He was a great soldier, Eustice told the Tribune. When he chose to leave, he had every right to leave  The man did nothing wrong when he chose to leave the service; he didnt break any rules.

In 2018, Al Bonnifield, who served under Walz in the Guard, told MPR News that Walz talked with us for quite a while on that subject [of retiring]. 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.

Walz told the outlet that once youre in, its hard to retire. Of my 40 years or 41 years, I had been in the military 24 of them. It was just what you did  So that transition period was just a challenge.

I know that there are certainly folks that did far more than I did. I know that, Walz added. I willingly say that I got far more out of the military than they got out of me, from the GI Bill to leadership opportunities to everything else.

Twenty-four years of service is nothing to sneeze at, and Vance is running alongside a known draft dodger who has repeatedly disparaged veterans and Gold Star families. If Vance wants to critique a mans honor, he should start with his running mate.

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Donald Trump has tried desperately to back out of his presidential debate with Kamala Harris, which was previously scheduled for September 10so now, J.D. Vance has offered to take it off his plate.

During Vances rally in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Wednesday, the Republican vice presidential nominee inexplicably invited Harris to debate next week.

So heres my offer to Kamala Harris: If shed like to do a debate with me on August 13, Ill do it, Vance said.

Before President Joe Biden dropped out of the race, Harris had agreed to debate Vance on CBS News on either July 23 or August 13. But Trump declined to commit his running mate to a debate.

In the weeks since, Harris has been elevated to the Democratic presidential nominee (she was officially certified as the nominee on Tuesday), challenging Trump to a debate. While Harriss circumstances have obviously changed, Vance voiced his skepticism that anything was certain.

I dont think she wants to anymore, because one, she probably doesnt even know that shes going to be the Democratic nominee, and two we dont know who the vice presidential nominee is going to be, either, he said.

Vance claimed that it was still unclear whether Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, whom Harris tapped on Tuesday, would be the nominee because hes got a lot of skeletons that are coming out of the closet.

Well see if the Democrats pull a bait and switch on Tim Walz, or on Kamala Harris, just like they did with Joe Biden, Vance warned.

Just as Vance cant seem to come to terms with the fact that hes not debating Harris anymore, Trump cant seem to cope without Biden.

On Tuesday night, Trump wrote a surreal post on Truth Social in which he imagined Biden crashing the Democratic National Convention to seize the nomination back from Harris.

Fanfiction aside, Trump and Vance just cant seem to face the reality that this is a fundamentally different race from the one they signed on for. Their slate of bad excuses for not debating Harris and Walz respectively has betrayed the depths of their obstinate, delusional approach to campaigning, as well as something much more troubling: that the two are plainly incapable of adapting to their new opponents.

Meanwhile, Walz seems more than happy to debate Vance. I cant wait to debate the guy, Walz said at a rally in Pennsylvania Tuesday night. That is, if hes willing to get off the couch and show up.
Pittsburgh, Pa (WJET/WFXP) A Jamaican man convicted of being the kingpin of an international drug operation that mainly operated in the eastern United States will spend the rest of his life in prison.

This week a Pittsburgh judge sentenced 43-year-old Racoco Williams to life in prison for the six-count conviction of violating federal kingpin statutes, federal drug trafficking, racketeering and money laundering laws over the course of about six years.

Erie resident convicted of brokering illegal transfer of unregistered firearms

Williams operation trafficked about 150 kilos of cocaine across cities including Charlotte, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; New York City; and Pittsburgh from 2012 to 2018 with the court saying he often used young women facing financial hardships as couriers for drugs and money, one being 16 years old.

According to court information, the drugs would often be picked up near the southwest border in Phoenix, Arizona then taken by the couriers on flights or busses to be brought back to different areas to be sold then return the money to the Phoenix base.

To keep couriers in line, prosecutors said Williams would often threaten them with violence even threatening to kill one courier and their entire family if she cooperated with law enforcement.

This sentence is the culmination of years of investigative and prosecutorial work, diligence, and expertise, said Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Sara Bay. As a result of this investigation, special agents and prosecutors were able to dismantle a vicious transnational drug trafficking organization and free the young women who Racoco Williams controlled through threats of violence.

19 people indicted for massive drug operation between PA, MI, OH

Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement said they seized approximately $895,000 in cash from Williams and his associates across multiple incidents with large amounts of drugs and jewelry also being seized.

One bust in 2012 even uncovered $337,000 in cash concealed in secret compartments in eight suitcases that netted him a two-year sentence on probation for assisting a criminal syndicate. Another in Arizona in 2014 also found two suitcases with approximately $160,000 in cash.

An associate of Williams was also arrested in Carnegie, PA, a suburb of Pittsburgh, in 2017 after being caught with six kilograms of cocaine and $78,500 in their home that was moved there from Las Vegas two days prior.

This was followed by two more incidents in the Pittsburgh area, one in Monroeville and another in Swissvale. The Swissvale incident in May, 2017 uncovered $120,000 in cash and valuable jewelry with the Monroeville incent three months later revealed 17 kilograms of cocaine concealed in two suitcases, and approximately $192,000 in cash and $150,000 in jewelry concealed in another suitcase.

13 people arrested during drug bust in Chautauqua Co.

Williams operations in the Pittsburgh area were also aided by co-conspirators in the Penn Hills area even while he was in prison.

Authorities also convicted Williams of arranging shipments while incarcerated from Phoenix to the Pittsburgh area but intercepted it in Arizona seizing approximately $400,000 in cash, $200,000 worth of jewelry, and a BMW sport utility vehicle.

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Over the course of the multi-year investigation, Williams and his associates were investigated by the FBI, DEA, PA Attorney General, Allegheny County Police Department, Swissvale Police Department, Arizona Department of Public Safety, Maricopa County (Arizona) Sheriffs Office, and Yavapai County (Arizona) 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 WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD)  The Town of James Island has decided to continue at OPCON 1 as Tropical Storm Debby drifts closer to South Carolina.

OPCON 1 is a full alert status that means a disaster or emergency is imminent or occurring.

Town officials say they remain in close contact with Charleston County Emergency Management and other regional partners.

Officials conducted a survey on Wednesday and no major overnight damage was reported. All town roads have reopened as of noon Wednesday.

Though weve been relatively fortunate so far, Debby is still just off the coast. With major wind gusts and more rain expected through tomorrow, were asking our residents to stay informed and stay safe until this storm is out of the area, said Mayor Brook Lyon.

The Town of James Island will remain closed on Wednesday for regular business. Town-sponsored meetings have also been canceled for the week.

The Charleston County Community Information Line is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday to provide updates and answer questions regarding the storm.

For assistance in English, dial (843) 746-3900. For Spanish, call (843) 746-3909. If you are experiencing an emergency, dial 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 WCBD News 2.
Elon Musk, owner of the increasingly litigious X Corp. - Credit: Apu Gomes/Getty Images

Elon Musks X Corp., the remains of what used to be Twitter Inc., has filed yet another dubious lawsuit in an effort to stem the financial damage wrought by its impetuous owner. This time, the company is going after a cohort of advertisers, whom he famously told to Go fuck yourself in an unhinged interview at a business conference less than a year ago, because they continue to want nothing to do with his rotted social platform.

In an unusual move, X CEO Linda Yaccarino shared an open letter and a video of herself addressing X users and advertisers in order to directly explain the rationale behind the suit. The statements accused the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM), an initiative of the World Federation of Advertisers aimed at reducing the monetization of harmful or illegal digital content, of orchestrating an illegal boycott of X and other companies. Rumble, a video streaming site drenched in far-right conspiracy theories, hate speech, and misinformation, announced that it was joining Xs suit, which targets GARM and WFA, along with member brands Unilever, CVS Health, Mars, and rsted, a Danish energy company.

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We tried peace for 2 years, now it is war, Musk tweeted, in his characteristically grandiose fashion, when he shared Yaccarinos comments. He also tweeted, in response to Rumble declaring its legal alliance with X, Everyone who has been boycotted should file a lawsuit in every country theyve been boycotted.

That litigious attitude is nothing new. The plummet in crucial ad revenue as brands fled X/Twitter due to a surge in right-wing extremist content after Musks 2022 takeover  with some misinformation and antisemitic content amplified by Musk himself  has led to legal actions against the watchdog groups taking note of the toxic atmosphere. One lawsuit targeted the Center for Countering Digital Hate, which had documented the rise in hate speech; a judge dismissed the case in March, with harsh words about how X Corp. had sought to punish the organization for exercising free speech (a right that Musk claims to champion). Another suit took aim at Media Matters for America, which had demonstrated how paid ads were appearing alongside X posts from neo-Nazis and white nationalists. That case, deemed bogus by legal commentators, fell to District Judge Reed OConnor, a conservative Texas judge known for partisan decisions who also happens to be an investor in Tesla, the automaker of which Musk is CEO. Its slated to go to trial in April 2025.

The new 44-page complaint against the advertiser coalition was likewise filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, presumably seen as a favorable venue for X Corp.  in fact, because it went to the Wichita Falls division, it is guaranteed to end up before Judge OConnor as well. It alleges a GARM conspiracy to collectively withhold billions of dollars in advertising revenue from the company. The filing cites a report issued last month by the House Judiciary Committee, chaired by far-right Rep. Jim Jordan, to the effect that GARM and WFA have colluded to demonetize disfavored content in a way that is likely illegal under the antitrust laws and threatens fundamental American freedoms.

Perhaps not coincidentally, X Corp. is represented in the matter by Dhillon Law Group, the firm of Harmeet Dhillon, a California lawyer known for filing suits challenging Covid-19 safety measures in 2020 and serving as a legal adviser to the Trump campaign. While votes were still being counted in that presidential election, Dhillon called for the Supreme Court to intervene and deliver Trump a second term.

GARM did, in fact, encourage members to pause ad spending on X in light of proliferating extremism and the reinstatement of many accounts that had been banned for hate speech and misinformation prior to Musks purchase of the app. Some withdrew from the platform altogether, while others greatly reduced expenditures there. With its main cash flow drying up, X lowered the cost of ads, courting smaller brands, yet the larger partners have not returned to take advantage of this bargain, and some marketing analysts say the investment still isnt worth it.

The Federal Trade Commission uses antitrust laws to enforce against illegal group boycotts, which is the terminology X Corp.s lawsuit applies to the desertion of various brands from the platform. However, the agency notes: A business can always unilaterally choose its business partners. The FTC would be able intervene in situations where a collection of companies are organizing to harm competition  by price-fixing, for example. Its likewise against the law for a group of competitors to enact a boycott in order to quash an individual rival in the market. And its possible for an advertiser boycott to be illegal, as when car dealerships in a California county allegedly agreed to pull their ads from a local newspaper after it published a guide to help consumers negotiate a better price when buying a car.

From a legal perspective, the complaint isnt frivolous  group boycotts can violate antitrust law, and the complaint does a decent job of laying out specific communications and actions that suggest coordination intended to hurt Xs businesses, says Robert Freund, a Los Angeles attorney who works with brands and agencies on social media marketing issues. But I dont think the claims are strong. I expect that WFA and the other defendants will argue that they acted in the interest of legitimate industry self-regulation and based on brand safety concerns, given Musks highly controversial public persona. (There is already plenty of speculation, of course, that his Go fuck yourself outburst and personal attacks on Disney CEO Bob Iger would play well in court for the advertisers.)

I think the better argument is that these advertisers decided to protest Musk and his behavior, and thats exactly what X itself alleged happened, Freund says, pointing to a section of the complaint quoting a communication from GARM co-founder Rob Rakowitz in which he explains that Unilever had concerns about overtly partisan takes on X, such as claims related to the Hunter Biden laptop controversy. In late 2022, Musk went to great lengths to prove and sensationalize what he characterized as censorship of the story by previous Twitter leadership. (He did not have any particular success in this endeavor.)

Boycotts based on protest generally are protected by the First Amendment, Freund observes. And thats the real irony here: for all of Musks proclamations about free speech, he has a habit of mistaking freedom of speech for freedom from consequences of speech.

This is a hideous joke, says David Balto, a Washington, D.C., antitrust lawyer and policy director at the FTC from 1998 to 2001, of the X Corp. lawsuit. The antitrust laws are a cruel and blunt weapon in the hands of someone irresponsible, they can do a lot of harm, but theres no conceivable way, he says, that Yaccarino and Musk can plausibly claim a boycott violation: It sounds like Elon Musk is engaging in a fantasy world of antitrust.

Balto explains that the suit is totally inconsistent with past FTC actions, which are very limited. As the agencys policy director, he was the person who made decisions about whether or not certain actions were worth investigating and were anti-competitive, and he sees little chance of the suit surviving a motion to dismiss. Associations such as the WFA, he notes, have broad leeway to police products and make sure consumers are not taken advantage of and deceived, with years of precedent holding that this kind of conduct falls within a safe harbor and is not subject to antitrust scrutiny.

Its not a question of whether or not Twitter lost some money, Balto says. Its a question of whether or not Twitter was competitively disadvantaged by their actions. Theres no evidence in this complaint that they were competitively disadvantaged. This complaint doesnt even get into the batters box, much less get the chance to strike out. Moreover, he considers the House Judiciary Report referenced in the suit to be simply a farce, saying, they didnt do any extensive investigation, and I dont think it holds water. He notes that the committee has done practically nothing in antitrust for a while, so this letter comes totally out of the blue.

John Newman, deputy director of the FTCs Bureau of Competition from 2021 to 2023 and now a professor at the University of Miami School of Law who specializes in antitrust, thinks the suit actually has a chance of success. This area of antitrust is actually pretty unsettled, and courts go back and forth, he says. A lot of antitrust experts are pooh-poohing this, but Im not so sure. It helps, he adds, that X Corp. apparently did some judge-shopping to try to get the right judge.

The law, Newman says, doesnt prohibit true boycotts, when a group bands together and pulls an economic lever in one market in order to change something else. But he doesnt see GARMs actions that way. Here, the advertisers are allegedly banding together and putting pressure on a seller to change that sellers behavior toward those advertisers in the advertising market, he says, and this could be considered illegal. If X gets past a motion to dismiss and wins at trial  years down the road  it could first and foremost collect money damages, Newman says. The lawsuit alleges a serious drop in revenue due to the agreement. And whatever the actual harm is would get automatically tripled. The court might even order GARM to stop agreeing together which platforms theyll do business with, or, in the most extreme outcome, have it dissolved entirely.

Whether or not Musk and Yaccarino have any real confidence in this legal strategy, there seems to be something desperate about their tweets and statements hyping the suit. Its possible, too, that Musk cares less about their chances of winning than the dramatic headlines and the opportunity to declare war on his social media platform. To date, X hasnt been able to sue its way out of the hole that he put it in; at some point, there will be no one left to blame. Until then, apparently, Musk can keep burning through his enemies list.

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By many accounts, Michele Morrow is the least likely candidate to lead North Carolinas education system.

Shes been homeschooling her children for over a decade, participated in the Stop the Steal rally that preceded the Jan. 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol, and has used choice words like indoctrination centers to describe public schools. And then theres the 2020 tweet she said the media wont let her forget  the one in which she called for a televised execution of former President Barack Obama.

In an interview with The 74, Morrow, who has previously avoided questions about her past tweets, downplayed the comments. Did I say things in jest? Absolutely, she said. The former nurse unexpectedly ousted Republican incumbent Catherine Truitt in the primary and now faces Maurice Mo Green, a former district superintendent, in the general election. She brushes off her inflammatory tweets as just a political thing.

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Thats between adults, she said. Thats not what I think should be happening in our classrooms.

Morrow isnt the only Jan. 6 participant vying for office this November. One is in a primary for a Congressional seat, and an organizer of the rally is running for the Texas House. But if elected, Morrow would become the only protester responsible for more than 2,700 schools and a $13 billion education budget.

She counts her nine years teaching science and Spanish for a homeschool co-op as her primary qualification for the job and said that after six years talking to parents and educators, she has a clear understanding of what voters are looking for in a state schools chief, starting with a strong focus on academics and character development. Green, meanwhile, is trumpeting his experience leading an education agency and advocating for increased education funding at a time when Republican lawmakers are expanding vouchers.

In interviews, Morrow espouses policies  like a scientific approach to reading instruction and high-dosage tutoring in math  that could bridge the partisan divide in a state with a Democratic governor and Republican-controlled House and Senate. But her past actions and occasionally extreme language are alienating would-be allies.

Im fearful of the rhetoric, said Marcus Brandon, who leads CarolinaCAN, part of a network of policy and advocacy groups that support school choice. He pushed for expansion of the states voucher program, and said while Morrow is good for my issue on paper, he thinks Green is more qualified. A former lawyer, Green led the Guilford County Schools, which includes Greensboro, for seven years.

We need a strong public school system, Brandon said. Seventy-five percent of our kids are going to go there.

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Following her surprise victory in the March primary, Morrows campaign attracted a big influx of cash from North Carolinas business community. But she lags behind Green in fundraising. At the end of June, Green had over $578,000 on hand to Morrows $50,600.

Whoever wins faces a system with critical challenges, like record-setting teacher turnover and flat funding. According to the Education Law Centers most recent school finance report, North Carolina ranks 48th in per-student funding, almost $5,000 below the national average of $16,131. Morrow argues theres already plenty of money for education and districts just need to triage.

We need someone who can lead us in a way that prioritizes students, said Lauren Fox, senior director of policy and research at the Public School Forum of North Carolina, a think tank that supports public schools. She hopes the next superintendent will continue Truitts practice of appointing a teacher adviser at a time when teachers currently feel demonized and that their voices arent being heard.

Green agrees and often reminds the public that Morrow, during some of her Facebook live posts early in the pandemic, used words like cesspool of evil and lies to describe public schools. Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, the Republican candidate for governor, has made similar disparaging remarks, calling teachers wicked people in a speech last year.

Our educators are being disrespected, Green told The 74. The state ranks 42nd in starting teacher pay, according to the latest National Education Association salary report. Its especially challenging to bring folks into this really important profession when youre not paying them well enough.

During his tenure, from 2008 to 2015, Guilford saw graduation rates climb nearly 10 percentage points to over 89% and rising scores on the ACT college entrance exam.

Recruited to run by outgoing Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, Green said hes better positioned to press for state spending increases while helping districts adjust to tighter budgets as federal relief funds dry up. He took over the Guilford district at the start of the Great Recession and said one of his first tasks was to return money to the state so officials could balance the budget.

After leaving Guilford, Green led the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, a philanthropy that funds a range of education, social and environmental causes. In Guilford, he supported charter schools and encouraged choice within the district. But he said, We cant have great choices in our public schools when you dont provide even close to adequate resources for them.

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His point resonates with many in a state where a group of poor districts sued in 1994 to get enough funding to provide students with a basic education. The foundation he led funded efforts to determine how much the state should provide for programs like pre-K and teacher preparation. The conservative state Supreme Court, however, is now deciding whether to overturn a 2022 opinion directing North Carolina to spend $800 million to improve education in the poorest parts of the state.

Green called the foundation an organization that certainly tries to lift up marginalized communities.

But Morrow has seized on Greens ties to the association to label him a progressive and extremist. She points to the organizations financing of groups who push for reducing the presence of school resource officers to curb the school-to-prison pipeline.

She said shes watching out for teachers by making student discipline the centerpiece of her platform. She cited state data showing almost 1,500 assaults by students on public school employees during the 2022-23 school year and attended a recent sheriffs convention in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to address school safety.

Morrow thinks shes been unfairly judged by educators in the public system and insists she only decided to homeschool when her oldest daughter, who had learning disabilities, wasnt making progress.

She was having math tutoring every day, and she still wasnt learning math facts, she said.

She eventually homeschooled her other four children, but stressed that she doesnt think all public schools are bad. As an example, she pointed to her local Wake County districts standout STEM programs.

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This whole idea that because your children are not in public school, that means you hate public school  nothing could be further from the truth, she said.

Morrow described any past online vitriol as rhetorical hyperbole that wasnt bothering anybody until the media focused on it.

But at a June conservative gathering called America Day, south of Greensboro, some of her comments had a familiar ring.

The greatest threat to the constitutional Republic that we call home is the indoctrination happening in our public school system today, she said. In other interviews, she has voiced opposition to discussions of race and gender in the classroom.

Morrow said she holds a monthly Zoom meeting with teachers, but has twice turned down invitations to share the stage with her Democratic opponent.

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Project 2025 Would Cut Ed. Dept., Fulfill GOP K-12 Wish List Under Trump

She is running for office by running against the current system, said Christopher Cooper, a political science professor at Western Carolina University. If Green wants to draw the spotlight away from her, Cooper said he must raise the salience of the office.

The superintendent of public instruction is not, in normal circumstances, an office that voters know a lot about, he said. And most statewide races do not draw attention outside of the borders of North Carolina, making this chiefs race unique.

But ultimately, the outcome in a purple state will likely rest not on either candidates platform, he said, but on whether Robinson, the GOP candidate for governor, and former President Donald Trump prevail on election night.

If Morrow does win, he said, it will likely be on the backs of a larger number of Republican wins in North Carolina.
A Nevada man awaiting trial for charges stemming from his alleged participation in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol was taken into custody this week for a series of threatening statements prosecutors say he made targeting public officials, including Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett and Attorney General Merrick Garland.

According to court records obtained by ABC News, prosecutors moved to revoke Bradley Nelson's bail following a series of statements and social media posts as recent as last month -- that included an image posted Garland with crosshairs drawn on his head. Prosecutors moved to revoke his bail two days after his post about Garland.

Another post that concerned prosecutors targeted Barrett and followed the Supreme Court's decision in Fischer v. United States involving an obstruction statute leveled against dozens of Jan. 6 rioters, including Nelson himself. Justice Barrett notably dissented from a majority opinion that significantly narrowed the statute's use against participants in the Capitol attack.

MORE: Judge orders Justice Department to return helmet, spear to 'QAnon Shaman'

PHOTO: Trump supporters clash with police and security forces as people try to storm the US Capitol on January 6, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Brent Stirton/Getty Images)

"I pray to God with all my [expletive] heart that somebody cuts your [expletive] throat from ear to ear you worthless piece of [expletive]," Nelson allegedly posted of Barrett roughly an hour after the court's ruling was made public.

Other posts flagged by prosecutors included an image posted by Nelson in August of 2023 of Judge Scott McAfee, the Georgia judge overseeing Trump's election interference case brought by the Fulton County District Attorney, with crosshairs over his head.

Nelson also allegedly posted an image of New York Attorney General Letitia James with crosshairs that included the comment he would, "give every [expletive] thing I have to watch that [expletive]'s head explode, or at least the back of her head blowout," the filing says.

PHOTO: Attorney General Merrick Garland delivers remarks during the Commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act at the US Department of Justice on July 9, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images)

A federal judge in Maryland ordered Nelson detained on Tuesday based on the statements, and also raised concerns about specific recent comments he made about FBI agents involved in his Jan. 6 case that were escalating in recent weeks.

According to the order, Nelson never disputed making any of the specific statements or posts, but instead argued that none amounted to threats, which the judge said he didn't find convincing.

PHOTO: Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett is the main speaker at the 2023 Antonin Scalia Memorial Dinner that is part of the Federalist Society's 2023 National Lawyers Convention at the Washington Hilton Hotel on November 9, 2023, in Washington, DC. (Jahi Chikwendiu/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

MORE: Jan. 6 rioters, supporters work to rewrite history of the attack on the Capitol

Whether Nelson continues to remain in custody, however, will be up to the D.C. district judge overseeing his case, Judge John Bates.

Nelson was first arrested in March of 2023 on several charges including entering and remaining on restricted grounds and violent and disorderly conduct in the Capitol.

Prosecutors said Nelson posted extensive sentiments online in advance of the riot about his desire for violence against public officials including Sen. Mitch McConnell and former Attorney General William Barr, though he was not accused of assaulting police during the riot itself.

Nelson has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is set to go to trial in December.

Jan. 6 rioter taken into custody after threatening posts targeting Justice Barrett, AG Garland originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
January 6, 2021, that day of presidential infamy, was also an experiment for Donald Trump and those who wanted to overturn a legitimate election through a quiet coup; when it failed, violence was the fallback. Call it a beta test for what may be in store if Trump loses in 2024. But to be forewarned is to be forearmed. We are better prepared now, in part through a salutary reform of the Electoral Count Act.

The bipartisan legislation, signed into law by President Joe Biden, limits many underhanded means Trumps allies would otherwise employ in case of another electoral loss, including sending in bogus alternative slates of electors.

Still, challenges remain. In fact, since at least last October, Trump has been preparing America for his post-election campaign to overturn the election if he loses. He said then, "You don't have to vote, don't worry about voting. The voting, we got plenty of votes." He said it again to a group of Christian conservatives on July 25. We dont need your votes. We have enough votes.

With such proclamations, Donald Trump is doing two things.

First, hes telling his MAGA troops to aggressively monitor voting. That instruction is not coming out of the blue. MAGA lawyer and strategist, Cleta Mitchell, who, according to the New York Times, plotted with him to overturn the 2020 Trump loss, has been running a well-funded effort recruiting election conspiracists into an organized cavalry of activists monitoring elections using aggressive methods. She told 150 MAGA activists-in-training that this was all about taking the lessons we learned in 2020.

Ordinary citizens, it is crucial to note, can neutralize intimidation at polling places with our own monitors, as we have in previous cycles.

Trumps second tactic is about his planning to overturn his election loss if it occurs. Hes softening the ground to repeat his 2020 Big Lie: I WON THIS ELECTION, BY A LOT. He paved the way for that claim before election day 2020 by regularly claiming in advance, The only way we're going to lose this election is if the election is rigged."

Trump has already signaled, consistent with his 2016 and 2020 pre-election statements, that he will not accept election results if he loses. In a May 1, 2024 Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel interview, Trump said that only if everythings honest would he accept the results. If its not, you have to fight.

On July 29, Rolling Stone Magazine identified  and seemingly exaggerated  possible trouble ahead: the number of election deniers who now occupy local election offices in swing states, including Nevada, Michigan, Georgia, Arizona, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Importantly, the astute analyst Robert Hubbell pinpointed the limited scope of the threat reported on by Rolling Stone. [T]he officials identified by their survey are in 16 counties across the six key battleground states. Of course, it could well be more. The plan is to refuse to certify results in enough counties that their states cannot formally certify the electoral votes.

Before discussing the remedies, lets acknowledge that this did not happen by accident. Mere months after January 6, Steve Bannon broadcast on his War Room podcast his MAGA world call to take over local election offices village by village.

Heres the good news. Most of the key swing states have as their top election officials people who will protect free and fair elections. They include Democratic Secretaries of States in Arizona, Michigan, Nevada and Wisconsin, as well as Republicans Al Schmidt in Pennsylvania and Brad Raffensperger in Georgia. Most of them won in the midterms, demonstrating once again the importance of protecting our votes.

Of course, well need not only honest statewide election officials but also courts upholding the integrity of the results. Theres good news on that front, as well.

State attorneys general are the first responders who decide whether or not to bring legal actions to compel election officials to perform their duty to certify elections. That happened in 2022 in New Mexico when the all-GOP Otero County election officials declined to certify the midterms. Democratic Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver sued and obtained a state supreme court order forcing the county to certify. That is a template for combating future efforts to refuse certification.

Like Oliver, the attorneys general in battleground states Arizona, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Nevada, and Wisconsin are Democrats. Kris Mayes, Arizonas AG, won her election by 280 votes. Every ballot matters.

Recall that after Trumps 2020 defeat, he scrambled desperately to get battleground state legislatures to reverse their states election certifications of President Joe Bidens victory in their states. But it was too little too late.

Though there are strong firewalls in these swing states, we should not overlook trouble spots. After the 2020 election, when Raffensperger stood up to Trump, the Georgia Republican legislature removed him from the Georgia Election Board, which has election rulemaking power. Its membership is now full MAGA. Trump praised it this weekend  and it is trying to change the rules to benefit Trump. The Board does not certify elections, however; and good government watchdogs, like American Oversight, are doing their best to keep it honest.

There is another state that could prove more troublesome  Virginia. If the election is close and Trump loses in Virginia, he can go to the Commonwealths State Elections Board and try getting them to abandon their duty to certify any win by Vice President Kamala Harris. The Boards chair and majority are Republicans appointed by Governor Glenn Youngkin.

Youngkin, despite his genial manner and fleece vests, has proven to be a full-on Trump loyalist. With a green light from him, the Elections Board could try to knock Virginia out of Kamala Harriss electoral count total.

Significantly, short of a massive national victory, every likely route for Vice President Harris to electoral college victory, including winning the Blue Wall states of Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania  depends on holding Virginias 13 electoral votes. Without Virginia, in a close election, Vice President Harris could lose an electoral college majority.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

If neither candidate gains such a majority, under the 12th Amendment, the election gets thrown into the House, where each state delegation gets a single vote. House Republicans currently have majorities in enough states to prevail. Even if Republicans lose their narrow majority in November, in a contingent election the odds favor them continuing to hold majorities in enough House state delegations to make Trump president.

Virginias voters, like citizens in any vulnerable swing state, can do things to help prepare for the Day After, blocking Trump from successfully targeting those states for his anticipated made-out-of-whole-cloth, Stop-the-Steal campaign. In addition to using social media and news outlets, citizens can make news outlets and state legislators aware of the potential January 6, 2025 quiet coup to deprive Vice President Harris of a win in their states and the country.

Importantly, journalists can press all of the relevant officials to pledge that they will do their duty to respect and certify the results of the election in their states. And should that not work in Virginia, post-election, although the states attorney general is a Republican, if he does not sue the Election Board for an order to compel them to do their duty, the Harris campaign can.

Most obviously, to avoid that need, Virginians can help ensure a massive turnout, and a clear election defeat for Trump. That will give pause to any state executives before they accede to democracy-defying pressure from the former president. And all the more so if battleground states send the man who would be king, and the party that has enabled him, to his final election defeat.
After Japan snubs Israel for Nagasaki commemoration, U.S., other envoys plan to skip event

On Friday, U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel (seen in 2023 at U.S. Ambassador's Residence in Tokyo) instead will attend a different event to honor the Nagasaki atomic bomb victims at Zojoji temple in Tokyos Minato Ward, The Japan News reported. File Photo by Keizo Mori/UPI

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- After Japan didn't invite Israel to a Nagasaki ceremony over fears of possible protest disruptions, the U.S. ambassador is joining with many of his counterparts in skipping the event, as well.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel this week will join multiple other nations' ambassadors to Japan in skipping Nagasaki's 79th annual memorial to mark the 1945 U.S. atomic bombing.

Local officials did not invite an Israeli representative, voicing security concerns over possible protests spurred by the Gaza war.

"Given the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza and international opinion, there is a risk of unpredictable disruption occurring at the ceremony," Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki explained on Saturday in regards to the decision by city officials to not invite Israel's Ambassador Gilad Cohen to the anniversary ceremony.

Dignitaries from more than 150 nations and territories were among those invited to Nagasaki's Friday ceremony on August 9 in southwest Japan to remember Aug. 9, 1945, the date when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Nagasaki. Estimates say anywhere from 40,000 to 74,000 people died in the event, which came three days after the United States leveled Hiroshima.

British Ambassador to Japan Julia Longbottom said Tuesday that she, too, will skip the Nagasaki event, joining the ambassadors to Japan of Canada, France, Italy and Australia, according to reports.

On Friday, Emanuel instead will attend a different event to honor the Nagasaki atomic bomb victims at Zojoji temple in Tokyo's Minato Ward, The Japan News reported.

Expected to sit in for Emanuel is Chuka Asike, principal officer at the U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka near Nagasaki, according to the sources.

Every year, city officials in Nagasaki send invitations to all embassies in Japan, but have excluded Russia and its neighboring Belarus since Moscow's 2022 invasion began of Ukraine.

Nagasaki's mayor first suggested publicly last month that Israel might be excluded from the 79th anniversary ceremonies, which prompted several countries, some now not attending the event on Friday, to send a letter to officials expressing their concerns over Suzuki's comments.

"Should Israel be excluded, it would become difficult for us to have high-level participation in this event," read a letter signed by representatives from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the U.S. and the European Union.

Notably, however, the list of invitees also included China, Syria, Yemen, Venezuela, Myanmar and Afghanistan, all countries with known records of human rights abuses. And Iran's ambassador was invited despite Iran's designation as a primary sponsor of terrorism by the United States and its allies.

Emanuel and Longbottom say Nagasaki's decision not to invite Israel wrongly equates the war against Hamas in Gaza with Russia and Belarus' actions with regard to Ukraine.

"Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Israel's self-defense is not morally equivalent," Emanuel wrote in an email to The New York Times.

But Cohen, Israel's ambassador in Tokyo, on Monday responded furiously to Nagasaki's choice and was critical of officials' reasoning.

"It has nothing to do with public order," he told CNN. "I checked it with the relevant authorities that are responsible for public order and security, and there is no obstacle for me to go to Nagasaki," Cohen said, accusing Suzuki of "inventing this."

Suzuki, the son of atomic bomb survivors, expressed his desire for the ceremony to remain peaceful without a possibility of protests over Israel's ongoing war in Gaza as the basis for not inviting Cohen to Nagasaki.

"We need to carefully monitor the situation as it develops," he said, but reports say Suzuki did not specify any other details on terms, conditions or deadlines on a possible invite extension to Israel.

However, some critics say excluding Israel sends the wrong message, as Suzuki has stated he sent a letter in June to the Israeli Embassy in Tokyo, Japan's capital city, calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza.

Meanwhile, the Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations, America's largest Muslim civil rights advocacy organization, was critical of the U.S. decision to reject the Nagasaki invite simply over Israel's non-invite over Gaza.

"Instead of coming to the defense of a far-right genocidal government, our nation's representatives around the world should embrace a universal standard of human rights and humanity that does not exclude the Palestinian people," Ibrahim Hooper, CAIR's national communications director, wrote in a statement while thanking Nagasaki officials for not inviting envoys of other nations' to the ceremony currently engaged in alleged genocidal acts in violation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Even the Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East organization voiced its outrage over the decision by Canada's Ambassador to Japan Ian G. McKay to join Emanuel in not attending, calling it a "grotesque political stunt."

"Boycotting the Nagasaki memorial service to protest the exclusion of Israel, a state which is actively committing genocide, is incredibly disrespectful to the civilian victims of mass killing in both Japan and Gaza," Michael Bueckert, the group's vice president, said.

He called it "absurd" that Canada is "standing up for Israel's right to attend a memorial ceremony for the victims of the United States' nuclear bomb on Nagasaki while its ministers casually call for dropping the same weapons on civilians in Gaza," Bueckert said, adding his belief that Canada is demonstrating "that its priority is not a ceasefire but defending the sensibilities and reputation of a genocidal regime."
Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance on Wednesday criticized his counterpart on the Democratic ticket for exaggerating his military service and staying home from the Iraq War when his unit deployed.

Speaking at a campaign stop in Wisconsin, Vance, a Marine Corps veteran, said that when his country asked him to go to Iraq in 2005, he did, but Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who served in the Army National Guard for 24 years, did not.

You know what really bothers me about Tim Walz, as a Marine who served his country in uniform? When the United States Marine Corps, when the United States of America asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it, Vance said. When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him.

Vances running mate, of course, famously used a dubious medical diagnosis of bone spurs to avoid being drafted into the Vietnam War.

Walz previously faced criticism about his military record in 2018 when he ran for governor of Minnesota, and again when he sought reelection four years later. In an open letter posted on Facebook in 2018, Thomas Behrends, a retired command sergeant major from the Minnesota National Guard, claimed Walz retired after his unit received a warning order in early 2005 that it would deploy to Iraq.

His excuse to other leaders was that he needed to retire in order to run for Congress, the letter said.

But Army Lt. Col. Ryan Rossman, director of operations for the Minnesota National Guard, said Wednesday that Walzs unit received an alert order for mobilization to Iraq on July 14, 2005. Walz had retired two months earlier, in May.

Its not clear, however, if Walz has ever disputed Behrends timeline of his departure. A spokesperson for the Democratic presidential campaign did not immediately do so on Wednesday.

In a March 2005 press release from a website for the nascent Walz congressional campaign, Walz said he was aware of a possible mobilization of his unit and that he had a duty to serve if called on  but also that he wouldnt drop out of the race.

Behrends also said Walz exaggerated his rank when he served in Congress, saying he should not have identified himself as a retired command sergeant major. A public affairs officer for the Minneapolis National Guard said Walz attained that rank before he retired in May 2005 but reverted to master sergeant because he didnt finish coursework needed to maintain the rank in retirement.

Others who served with Walz have said the criticism of his departure is off-target.

He was a great soldier, Joseph Eustice, another National Guard veteran, told the Minneapolis Star Tribune in 2022. When he chose to leave, he had every right to leave.

But Vance went further than just criticizing Walzs departure from the Guard. He also pointed to a video clip recently posted by Vice President Kamala Harris presidential campaign in which Walz talks about gun control and banning assault weapons.

We can make sure that those weapons of war, that I carried in war, is the only place where those weapons are out, Walz said in the clip.

What was this weapon that you carried into war, given that you abandoned your unit right before they went to Iraq? Vance said. What bothers me about Tim Waltz is the stolen valor garbage. Do not pretend to be something that youre not.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Harris-Walz campaign did not directly address Vances comments.

After 24 years of military service, Governor Walz retired in 2005 and ran for Congress, where he chaired Veterans Affairs and was a tireless advocate for our men and women in uniform  and as Vice President of the United States he will continue to be a relentless champion for our veterans and military families.

Other Harris allies, however, suggested Walzs record stacked up favorably compared to Vances.

JD served honorably, but he wasnt kicking down doors. He was in public affairs. Which again, is fine and honorable, Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican congressman and pilot in the Air National Guard, posted on social media. Tim, after he was eligible for retirement, retired. People do that.

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In his latest weird endorsement, Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, blurbed a book that claims people on the left are subhuman and engaged in am Irregular Communist Revolution against the United States.

Unhumans: The Secret History of Communist Revolutions (and How to Crush Them), co-written by right-wing conspiracy theorist Jack Posobiec and professional ghostwriter Joshua Lisec, is an attack on the left posing as a history of revolutionary abuses.

The book argues that throughout history there has always been a group of people on the left who hate and kill. A better name for those people? Unhumans.

They dont believe what they say. They dont care about winning debates. They dont even want equality. They just want an excuse to destroy everything. They want an excuse to destroy you, Posobiec and Lisec wrote in the book, according to reporting from Mother Jones.

In Vances blurb, which is included on the website of right-wing publisher Skyhorse Publishing, the Ohio senator warns of communists in everyday settings, like the workplace and college campuses, and praises Posobiec for his insight.

In the past, communists marched in the streets waving red flags. Today, they march through HR, college campuses, and courtrooms to wage lawfare against good, honest people, wrote Vance. In Unhumans, Jack Posobiec and Joshua Lisec reveal their plans and show us what to do to fight back.

The book was also endorsed by right-wing political commentator Tucker Carlson and Donald Trumps son, Donald Trump Jr.

Posobiec has a history of promoting baseless conspiracy theories, such as "PizzaGate," falsely claiming that Russia's hack of the Democratic National Committee in 2016 unearthed evidence that elite Democrats run a pedophile ring. He is also known for pushing ideas rooted in right-wing tyranny, arguing the public would be better served by an authoritarian form of government.

Welcome to the end of democracy, Posobiec said in a viral speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference earlier this year. "We didnt get all the way there on Jan. 6, but we will endeavor to get rid of it.

Throughout the book, Posobiec and Lisec argue that democracy has never worked to protect innocents from the unhumans." They praise dictators such as Francisco Franco, who overthrew the Spanish Republic in the 1930s, and Augusto Pinochet, who led a coup in Chile in 1973 and "disappeared" thousands of his opponents, The New York Times reported.
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  As Tropical Storm Debby crawls towards North Carolina, Ohio senator and Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance has canceled his planned visit to Raleigh this Thursday.

Vance was scheduled to deliver remarks to the press at Raleigh Union Station, which would have been followed by a trip to Oakboro.

On Tuesday, the Trump-Vance campaign announced the North Carolina events will not take place this week due the severe weather forecast from Debby. The campaign intends to reschedule these events to a later date.

Vances event was scheduled to take place the same day Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota governor Tim Walz, planned to hold a campaign rally in Raleigh. That event has also been postponed due to 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 CBS17.com.
Johnson, VT- Dawn Tatro, the founder of the non-profit organization Jennas Promise has been nominated as a top-ten CNN Hero. Tatro has dedicated her life to helping those with substance abuse disorders.

Jennas Promise was started by Dawn Tatro and her husband, Gregory Tatro, after they tragically lost their daughter Jenna to substance use disorder in 2019. Since then, the Tatros have made a commitment to help families in Vermont so that they do not suffer the same loss.

The non-profit provides recovery housing, financial assistance, opportunities for workforce development, and services addressing trauma, health, wellness, and more.

Tatro says you have to treat the whole person for recovery to work. Tatro said, Seeing the kind of services for Jenna, you know thered be something here but not there, and she would fail, so living that life with her made us understand that you cant just piecemeal something together and have the results that you want a lot of times.

Tatro, who was put forward for consideration by her sister-in-law, did not expect to be nominated nor did she imagine that it would go this far. While Tatro is still having a hard time believing this is happening, her coworkers and residents are cheering her on.

Denise Joy, Director of Housing at Jennas Promise, said Tatros work has made the world a better place. She saw what was missing in her daughter Jennas life, in her treatment, and created an example of what would be filling those holes for other people. So she turned her grief into creating something wonderful.

Heather Mayhew, a resident at Jennas Promise, says Tatro improves the lives of those around her. I think that anyone that is lucky enough to come into contact with Dawn would come out a better person, whether that be having a conversation with her, or her giving advice, or her just being of support.

If Tatro moves on to the top five she will be invited to New York for an interview with Anderson Cooper, and if she makes CNNs Hero of the Year, she could earn up to $100,000. Tatro says if she makes it that far, she will put all her winnings towards Jennas Promise. But, at the end of the day, she says shes just glad more awareness is being brought to recovery.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Hollywood star Jennifer Garner and Queer Eye alum Bobby Berk joined rural Democratic activists on a Zoom call on Tuesday in celebrating Vice President Kamala Harriss selection of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.

The Zoom call, formally called Rural Voters for Harris, took place after Harris and Walz took the stage in Philadelphia for their first rally since he was tapped to join her on the Democratic partys ticket.

Walz had been slated to make an appearance at the event before the announcement, but instead, Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan spoke after his selection and hailed Walz as an opportunity to make inroads with rural voters.

I know that you shouldn't sleep on seconds in command as lieutenant governor, and what I have watched in Kamala Harris has been just tremendous in inspiring leadership for me and for so many others all across the country, she said on the call.

A Harris-Walz victory would elevate Flanagan to become the first Indigenous woman to become governor of any state.

If I do say so myself, rural Democrats always have a way of taking time and opportunity where it's at, and so I'm very excited that on this day, we also get to celebrate historic announcement of Governor Tim Walz joining the ticket with our phenomenal present next president, Kamala Harris, Anderson Clayton, the chairwoman of the North Carolina Democratic Party who has pushed for Democrats to appeal to Black and brown voters in rural areas, said on the call.

But the biggest stars of the event were celebrities Berk and Garner.

Jennifer Garner appeared on the Zoom call in support of Harris and Walz (Rural Americans for Harris)

Berk for his part talked about his experience growing up in rural Missouri and his late Republican father.

I really didn't have any hope that I was going to be able to change the mind of my 80-year-old dad, who thought it was his Christian duty to vote Republican, Berk said.

However, after the 2020 election, my dad called me up because he wanted me to know he did not vote for that man. He did not vote for Trump because of me and my husband Dewey.

Garner, a personal friend of Senator Joe Manchin, talked about the need to support rural areas  drawing on her own experience growing up in West Virginia with parents from Texas and Oklahoma.

And I'm not talking about like, you know, behind the Walmart, I'm talking about the time, but in the town behind the town, behind the town, who can get to Walmart, you know, with a group of people, maybe once a month, because that's how often they can afford gas, she said.

We have to get our neighbors excited, she said. We have to show our enthusiasm and our pride as we advocate for the Harris-Walz ticket and to the eventual success of having Harris-Walz in the White House, governing this country and caring about rural America, making sure that there's more opportunity for healthcare in the middle of nowhere.

Democrats have sought to shore up their support among rural voters in recent years in hopes of reshaping the partys old coalition that not only included Black voters, Latinos and young people, but many non-college-educated white voters who have drifted toward the Republican Party  a trend that Donald Trump accelerated.

Indeed, in Walzs final campaign for Congress, he narrowly won re-election in 2016 in his district in southern Minnesota when Trump won the district.

Harris and Walz will proceed to make a swing throughout multiple states this week, including Wisconsin, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada, all states that have both major urban populations as well as large swaths of rural areas.
By Eva Orsolya Papp and Marleen Kaesebier

(Reuters) -Nivea maker Beiersdorf missed expectations for half-year operating profit on Wednesday and said the luxury market slowdown in China had hit the sales of its La Prairie brand.

Its shares fell as much as 5.9% to 123.65 euros in the morning trade, their lowest price since November. They were down 1.7% by 1023 GMT.

Sales of high-end beauty products have slowed down in China as economic uncertainty weighs on middle-class shoppers and makes those who can still afford luxury cautious about ostentation.

Organic sales at Beiersdorf's key businesses Nivea and Derma grew by 11.1% and 8.3% respectively in the first half of 2024, while luxury brand La Prairie saw a 7% drop largely due to the tough market environment in China.

"Weakness at La Prairie was the main explaining factor for the Q2 sales miss at Consumer, overshadowing another strong quarter for Nivea," Stifel analysts said in a note.

The Hamburg-based group said organic sales at its consumer business grew 6.1% in the second quarter, versus 7.4% growth expected by analysts. It did not provide quarterly numbers for specific brands.

At group level, first-half sales rose 7.1% organically to 5.2 billion euros ($5.7 billion), just below the 7.2% growth expected by analysts polled by Vara Research.

French peer L'Oreal had also flagged a hit from the lack of a rebound in China and said it expected the market to stay slightly negative in the second half of the year.

The German group's operating profit, excluding special factors, fell to 838 million euros in the first half, below analysts' average forecast of 890 million.

That was mainly due to higher spending on marketing, research and development, and digitalisation, Beiersdorf said.

The company reiterated its annual forecast for 6-8% organic sales growth, and CEO Vincent Warnery said in a call he would be disappointed if sales came in at the low end of that range.

Meanwhile, finance chief Astrid Hermann said the 2024 growth would depend on the performance of La Prairie in the second half of the year.

($1 = 0.9165 euros)

(Reporting by Eva Orsolya Papp and Marleen Kaesebier in Gdansk; Editing by Milla Nissi)
New Jersey residents brace for more rain as floodwater rises

New Jersey residents brace for more rain as floodwater rises

NEW JERSEY (PIX11)  One vehicle after another slowly waded through floodwater several inches deep in intersections across New Jersey.

Many of these scenes may be just a preview of whats coming our way as more rain from Hurricane Debbie heads north later this week.

More Local News

Hackensack, one of the municipalities across New Jersey, is struggling to manage ground saturation.

As it continues to rain steadily, at a certain point the water has nowhere left to go but into streets, businesses, and homes.

On Route 17 in Hasbrouck Heights, cones blocked off the highways long flood-prone stretch.

On Bergen Street in Paterson, workers inspected storm drains in anticipation of the Passaic River once again rising high enough to overtake the pavement.

When is Tropical Storm Debby expected to hit NYC?

This weeks rough weather is making life incredibly difficult for residents and business owners, including Ney Jaime. They are saying Friday, coming like 16 feet of water. We move everything. I dont want to wait, said Jaime.

Jaime runs an auto mechanic shop and has lost several vehicles due to flooding. While appreciative of the citys unsuccessful efforts to prop him up financially, Ney says he is still struggling.

Nobody supports here. Nobody gives nothing to me and the city dont go no money, said Jaime.

Paterson Mayor Andrew Sayegh says his crews are already looking ahead to the next weather event. We are looking ahead  48 hours. We still have barricades in the areas that are prone to flooding. We are in constant communication with PSE&G relative to power outages so Paterson is prepared for whatever this storm has in store for us.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Montana 2024 Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy. (Courtesy Tim Sheehy campaign)

When the memes started appearing, many leaders in Montanas Jewish community thought that U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy was probably not aware of the deep roots of the cartoon.

They thought the same might be true of the Gallatin County Central Republican Committee, after another meme popped up in the middle of June.

But now, most of those leaders dont know what to think because both the Sheehy camp and the Republican leadership in one of Montanas largest communities remain silent and non-responsive to two social media messages theyve posted depicting Jewish leaders controlling other liberal politicians by puppet strings, harkening back to an antisemitic trope that Jews secretly control politics, the media or banking.

Memes arent the only issue; comments from a campaign staffer also have raised concerns, and those same Jewish leaders werent the only ones taking notice.

They heard from fellow Jews and concerned citizens reacting to the postings. When the Daily Montanan reached out earlier this summer, most said they didnt want to talk about it until they reached out to the campaign and committee to have conversation.

Since then, theres been little response by the Sheehy campaign and even less response by the Gallatin Republicans to counteract the notion that theyre trading on old antisemitic tropes that depict Jews as secretly exerting control.

Meanwhile, attacks against the Jewish community have grown since Hamas assault on Israel, although support from faith communities has increased in Montana as well.

Neither the Sheehy campaign nor the Gallatin County Republicans responded to questions or interview requests from the Daily Montanan.

The first meme, posted by the Sheehy campaign, shows the United States highest ranking Jewish official, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, controlling the radio, TV and money. Sheehy asks in the posting, We need your help to stop Jon Tester and Chuck Schumer. Donate to Tim Sheehy for Montana today!

A puppeteers hands, possibly Schumers, controlled the strings to radio, TV, and money portion, which was joined by a cartoon of a bag with a $.

The Gallatin County Republicans posted a meme that featured a baggy-eyed cartoonish figure of liberal activist George Soros, who is Jewish, controlling former President Barack Obama, who is, in turn, controlling President Joe Biden and Vice President and now-Democratic President nominee Kamala Harris with a caption that said, Our current situation explained.

The leaders within Montanas small Jewish community reported that they, too, approached the campaign and committee wanting conversations. Those failed.

Rebecca Stanfel is part of the leadership of the Montana Jewish Project, based in Montanas first historical synagogue, Temple Emanu-el in Helena. The Montana Jewish Project is not a synagogue, and it typically doesnt hold religious programming. Instead, it works on preserving the cultural heritage of Jews in Montana, as well as supporting educational outreach about Judaism, and supporting the diverse Jewish communities in the Treasure State.

Even appearing partisan makes it more difficult to inform the state of the presence of Jews in Montana, Stanfel said.

Sheehy is a Republican who is associated with Gallatin County.

The Montana Jewish Project reached out to Sheehys campaign repeatedly in the days following the original post. It heard nothing. It reached out to several other Republicans who knew the campaign, only to hear nothing.

Finally, Stanfel said she went old-school, and sent a certified letter to the only address she could find on Sheehys website. She was contacted by one staff member who said that the campaign couldnt respond until later this month.

Its not the first time Jewish faith leaders have been iced out by a politician in Montana. During the 2023 Legislative session, Speaker of the House Matt Regier, R-Kalispell, had removed Rep. Ed Stafman, D-Bozeman, who is an ordained rabbi, from giving the invocation at one of the daily openings. The invocations are given by a variety of leaders from different backgrounds, but Stafman was removed from the calendar and was told the decision came from the leadership. At the time, Stanfel and the Montana Jewish Project tried to contact Regier and reached out to him by letter, without response.

In a recent interview, retired Rabbi Laurie Franklin of Missoula said that the memes play on popular antisemitic tropes, including that the Jews control the media, the Jews control the banks and there are political conspiracies of Jews controlling the political process.

Many of those ideas are embedded deeply within western and European cultures and date back to the time of the Christian Crusades when Jews were not allowed to be full members of European society, being relegated to professions like banking and being excluded from trade guilds or owning land.

I cant believe the campaign is antisemitic or are using antisemitism as a tool, Franklin told the Daily Montanan. These ideas are closely related to the Replacement Theory, in which the Jews are aiding others in replacing the traditional white male power structure.

In Montana, Franklin said such ideas can lead to powerful results in communities where Jewish families make up a fraction of the population.

This shows profound carelessness and a lack of consideration for people who are Jewish, Franklin said. I see this as somewhat unbelievable. Who was doing the messaging, and why did they decide to publish this? How does that happen?

Franklin and other Jewish leaders said that some of the younger generation may not understand the symbolism or iconography of the memes, but the idea of Jewish control is still there.

It can influence negative stereotypes. Its there because its obviously part of the culture, Franklin said.

Caleb Oriet

It is not the first time the Sheehy campaign has found itself being questioned about its candidates stance on antisemitism.

Several political journals covering national politics noted the presence of Caleb Oriet, a Montanan active in conservative Montana politics with a history of controversial, even bigoted postings.

After the memes of Schumer appeared on Sheehys social media, Oriet was connected by payroll records filed through the Federal Elections Commission as working for the Sheehy campaign.

Sheehys campaign didnt not respond to national media outlets like Axios and the Daily Beast about Oriets status on the campaign, and its still unclear whether hes affiliated.

When the connection between the Sheehy campaign and Oriet was first discovered, the Daily Beasts Riley Rogerson reported it this way on May 20:

The account belonging to the 21-year-old Montanan and self-proclaimed Anglo-Saxon Protestant and menace to society liked, for instance, a tweet that refers to Black Americans as the most criminal, dependent, and socially destructive part of the population, and attacks GOP efforts to connect with Black voters.

A spokesperson for the Sheehy campaign at the time accused the Daily Beast as a trash New York tabloid, then accused it of trying to tear down a 21-year-old.

After the article appeared, most of Oriets social media accounts were taken down, and it reported that his name on the Sheehy campaign website had been removed. However, the campaign also failed to answer whether Oriet was still involved with the campaign. Those questions went unanswered by the campaign when the Daily Montanan reached out it to it last week.

Oriet previously worked for Rep. Matt Rosendale, the lame-duck Republican congressman from Montanas central-eastern district. In addition, Oriet has given public speeches touting the need for Christian Nationalism.

Still, the appearance of the trope and Sheehys decision to enlist Oriet are worrying Montanas Jewish community.

I cant speak for Mr. Sheehy or Mr. Oriet, Stanfel said. But they may not realize there are Jewish folks living, for example, outside of Roundup or in Clyde Park. Montana Judaism is pluralistic and diverse.

Antisemitic symbolism

At first, both of the Republican-based political advertisements look thematically similar, puppeteers controlling the strings of either politicians or institutions. Both attack Democrats.

But the person pulling the strings, literally, in both ads happens to be Jewish. What people may not understand is the long history of Jews being accused of secret plots and political fixing. The idea and imagery of Jews controlling politicians and institutions has it roots centuries ago, but was used more recently in the pogroms of Russia and the U.S.S.R., as well as propaganda during the Third Reich in Germany.

The American Jewish Committee reports that its closely tied to the idea of replacement theory as well as an idea of clandestine world domination.

Soros has become an international target of right-wing scorn, and has been featured so often in antisemitic tropes using the imagery of the puppet master that the British-based AntiSemitism Policy Trust has published an entire 13-page report on the history and variety of Soros-based conspiracy theories.

Its not the first time that other right-wing aligned media has promoted the image of Soros as a Jewish puppet master. In 2021, Fox News was pressured to remove similar imagery of Soros after complaints from the Anti-Defamation League, now ADL.

The Montana Jewish Project also hopes that it can be a resource in the future for leaders and communities that may encounter antisemitic messages. For example, Stanfel said that not many realize how many Jewish families are in Montana, nor that the Jewish community played an outsized role in building the state.

The Montana Jewish Project reaches out to classrooms and teachers throughout the state, helping with resources for history lessons, providing information about Not In Our Town, and even helping teachers locate supplies during Hanukkah.

Jewish voices are interwoven in our states history, Stanfel said. But when something hateful happens, it shouldnt be the Jewish community or the Catholic community or Montanas eight sovereign nations. It shouldnt have to be just them who stand up.

She also said that the MJP is becoming more of a resource for those who dont much about Judaism or its deep roots within the state.

We answer questions all the time, Stanfel said.

Escalating problems, growing solidarity

Most of the states Jewish leaders said that after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, the number of antisemitic acts have been increasing, not just here but also nationwide.

Stanfel reports more antisemitic leaflets being left on cars or blanketed in neighborhoods. There have been more swatting incidents, too.

She said theres been a supportive counter-reaction from other faith communities. The Montana Jewish Project counts other denominations as its largest supporters, including members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America who took up offerings and wrote checks to help support the nascent MJP. And, Diocese of Helena Bishop Austin Anthony Vetter helped facilitate the sale of the Temple from the diocese at a discounted rate so that it could open and go back into use as a gathering place for Montanas Jewish community.

You have to pay attention to the good the faith community throughout the state has done, Stanfel said. We wouldnt exist without non-Jewish Montana.

Bishop Laurie Jungling leads the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in Montana. She said that standing with the Jewish community is simply a matter of doing whats right.

We would stand up anytime you have a trope that degrades or diminishes our humanity, Jungling said. This isnt just yelling at them, its about inviting them in. Its about a conversation. Its about an issue, where at the very least we could educate. We hope we would stand up for anyone who is oppressed and marginalized.

Next steps?

Universally, its troubling and disheartening, Stanfel said. People who have brought these things to our attention keep asking, Well, did they respond? And, we have to keep saying, No.

The decision to go public with their concerns happened only after weeks of silence and trying.

Its important to call out hate of any kind, Stanfel said. But its not the most effective way to help a person or group understand that what theyre doing my be hurting people. We really tried a different strategy. We said explicitly: We want to talk face to face, phone to phone, or Zoom screen to Zoom screen.

Franklin said what many of the leaders most hoped for was a conversation, not a call-out.

And to have heard nothing, Franklin said. No opportunity to have the discussion and no answer is either bad administration or a sign that they didnt not want to have a discussion.
Seventy-four million Americans voted for the man in 2020, and, if polls are correct, at least that many plan to vote for him this time around. What hope would a President Kamala Harris have of uniting the country if half of the electorate believes the prosecutions of former President Donald Trump are illegitimate? News coverage of Trump trials in Washington, Florida and Georgia would cast a shadow over a Harris presidency. Every lower court ruling would likely result in back-and-forth trips to the Supreme Court, ensuring a process lasting years.Consider the other scenario, in which Trump wins in November. He would pardon himself before the teleprompter shuts down on his inaugural speech. As for the New York conviction and the Georgia indictment, no judge would sentence a sitting president to a day in prison for those offenses.

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, U.S., August 3, 2024. REUTERS/Megan Varner

A Trump pardon would cause an uproar among no-man-is-above-the-law adherents, despite the reality that rich white men, more often than not, have been above the law since the countrys founding. But acceptance would set in when pundits begin to weigh the merits of the idea.President Joe Bidens handling of the announcement, which should be timed to follow the Democratic convention, would be key in gaining that acceptance. Here is my version of what he should say:

My fellow Americans,

Moments ago, I signed documents granting Donald J. Trump pardons for the charges pending against him in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia arising out of the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection and for the charges pending against him in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida for his willful retention of national defense information, obstruction and other offenses. The latter case was recently dismissed by the assigned judge, but most legal scholars fully expected it to be reinstated on appeal. Ive also pardoned Mr. Trumps two co-defendants in that Florida case.

I have written to Gov. Kathy Hochul and to Gov. Brian Kemp asking them to begin the process of granting pardons to Mr. Trump for the 34 felony convictions in New York and for the pending indictment in Georgia.

I take these actions reluctantly and not out of any belief in Mr. Trumps innocence; rather, it is my fervent wish that my actions today will restore some normalcy to political discourse in this country and allow us to address the truly important issues facing us. Instead of a campaign based on personal grievances, perhaps Mr. Trump will finally provide the policy details he so often glosses over with sound bites and other diversions. Perhaps he will debate Vice President Harris and make this election about their differing visions for our future and not about her race and her gender.

I fully expect an outcry over my pardoning of Mr. Trump, stemming from our closely held belief in this country that no person is above the law. It is a belief I also hold dear, but a belief that must yield to one higher purpose, the well-being of this nation.

I have no illusion as to how Mr. Trump and his extreme partners in the media will treat this. They will hail it as a victory for MAGA world and a sign of the weaknesses of the prosecutions against Mr. Trump. Those prosecutions were strong and, in my view, would have undoubtedly resulted in convictions and, because Mr. Trump no longer has first-offender status, his incarceration. Putting a former president of the United States in prison would be a stain on our country and must be avoided.

So, too, should we avoid the turmoil and strife that would ensue when Vice President Harris wins the election and the Trump prosecutions go forward. She should have a clean slate with which to begin her presidency and not be saddled with a continuation of the Trump saga, probably lasting years given his propensity to delay any reckoning for his behavior.

My decision in this regard is final and has already been implemented. The only question remaining is whether Mr. Trumps ego will allow him to accept these pardons. I hope he does accept them in the spirit in which theyve been granted  a desire that we begin healing the divisiveness that has characterized our politics over the past nine years.

My words tonight speak for themselves. I shall not speak further about this decision.

May God bless you and keep our troops safe.

Mike Kelly: J.D. Vance's past caught up with him. Can Kamala Harris outrun hers? | Mike Kelly

Biden showed true courage and a selflessness rare among politicians when he stepped aside as his partys presumptive nominee. Granting Trump pardons for the most odious conduct ever displayed by a sitting president would sharpen the contrast between one who puts the country first and one who has always put himself first.

Richard Muti is a former Democratic mayor of Ramsey and has taught American government and politics at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: President Biden should pardon Donald Trump
Joe Vanover, the Platte County commissioner representing District 2, which covers the area of the county north of Interstate 435, won the Republican primary in his bid for a second term in Tuesdays primary election.

Vanover, who was first elected to the seat in 2020, took 57% of votes cast, while his opponent, Melissa Steele Moran, took 43% in unofficial results released Tuesday night. Vanover claimed a margin of victory of about 700 votes.

No Democrats ran for the seat, so Vanovers name will be the only one on the ballot in Novembers election.

Vanover is a private attorney who previously worked in the Platte County Prosecutors Office and as a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Missouri.

Ahead of Tuesdays vote, Vanover said a major issue commissioners would be tasked with working on in the coming years would be a planned expansion to the Platte County Detention Center, which required voter approval through a pair of ballot measures. Voters declined to pass both measures, which would have raised funds for expanding the detention center and would have provided more mental health care and education for people in jail.

I want our community to stay a great place to build a life and raise a family, he said. During my years as a prosecutor, I saw the terrible toll that crime can have on people in the community. We need to elect conservatives to all levels of governmental office to make sure we support law enforcement and keep our community safe.
Virginia Turner of Upper Marlboro places a mail-in ballot inside drop box Aug. 6 at Non-Traditional Program North building in Bowie. Turner voted for Bowie Mayor Tim Adams (D) in the special primary election for a vacant at-large seat on Prince George's County Council. Photo by William J. Ford.

Prince Georges County Council Chair Jolene Ivey held a commanding lead Tuesday in the special election to fill an at-large seat on the 11-member council,

With all precincts reporting Tuesday night, Ivey had received 9,065 votes of 18,510 tallied in the Democratic primary, or just under 49%, according to unofficial results. Of her total, 7,521 votes came from mail-in ballots, which accounted for the vast majority of votes case.

It appears that Ivey, who was leading a crowded Democratic field, will face Michael Riker, who garnered 478 votes out of 1,011 counted so far in the Republican primary. Riker, a retired police officer, had 47% of the vote against three GOP challengers Tuesday night.

The winner of the Democratic primary would be heavily favored to win the seat in the Nov. 5 general election in the heavily Democratic jurisdiction.

Election officials still need to count provisional and more mail-in ballots.

A volunteer for Prince Georges County Council Chair Jolene Ivey sits at Carrollton Elementary, a polling center for Tuesdays special primary election. Photo by William J. Ford.

The winner will replace Jamel Mel Franklin, a council member for the past 14 years who abruptly resigned June 14, a week before he was charged with multiple counts in what authorities said was a theft scheme that involved more than $133,000 from his campaign account.

His replacement will serve the remaining two years of his term.

The special election for Franklins seat is expected to cost at least $1.3 million.

If Ivey, who currently represents the countys 5th District, is the eventual winner, the county would have to have to hold a special election next year to fill her 5th District seat.

Ivey aggressively sought the vacant seat with large campaign signs posted throughout the county. She even had a television commercial that began with words of thanks from County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D), whos running against former Republican Gov. Larry Hogan for U.S. Senate.

Iveys commercial touted endorsements from more than 80 local leaders with pictures of Alsobrooks and Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-5th).

Prince Georges County Councilmember Jolene Ivey (D)

Michael White of Hyattsville didnt realize the special election was taking place until he saw it online Tuesday morning. He drove to cast his ballot in person at Carrollton Elementary School.

I voted for Jolene Ivey, he said. I definitely liked she was already backed by a lot of senators that I was aware of. I liked that she was also backed by Angela Alsobrooks.

White was able to quickly cast his vote, as turnout Tuesday was extremely light. Thats because thousands of voters chose to cast their ballots by mail.

Out of the 19,521 total votes tallied Tuesday, 16,116 ballots had been mailed in, according to the Maryland State Board of Elections web site.

Virginia Turner of Upper Marlboro Turner placed her ballot inside a drop box Tuesday outside the Non-Traditional Program North building in Bowie. Turner cast her ballot for Bowie Mayor Tim Adams, who received the second-highest number of votes in the Democratic primary, with 5,271.

The other Democrats who sought the vacant seat and their vote totals are:

Tamara Davis Brown with 1,847;

former Del. Angela M. Angel with 949;

state Del. Marvin E. Holmes Jr. with 447;

Gabriel Njinimbot with 322;

Judy Mickens-Murray with 218;

Leo Bachi Eyombo with 115.

Kiesha D. Lewis, a Democrat who withdrew her candidacy last month, garnered 276 votes.

The three other Republican candidates were Jonathan White with 306 votes, Kamita Gray with 119 and Isaac Toyos with 108.
SEDALIA, Mo.  One day after securing primary victories in Missouri U.S. Senate race, Josh Hawley and Lucas Kunce have planned a debate at the Missouri State Fairgrounds.

The debate is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, August 15, according to Kunces campaign.

Hawley is a Republican incumbent seeking reelection for a Missouri U.S. Senate seat he has held since 2019. Kunce will challenge Hawley as a Democratic candidate for the Senate seat in the November election after his primary victory Tuesday. Hawley also won a primary election Tuesday for Republican nomination of the seat unopposed.

Rapper Nelly arrested after casino jackpot win

Shortly after the Associated Press called Kunces victory, Hawley shared an X post congratulating Kunce on the primary victory and challenging him to a debate. Next week. MO State Fair, Sedalia. Thursday AM right after the Governors Ham Breakfast. No fancy studio or moderators. Just the two of us on a trailer. Lincoln-Douglas style. Ill bring the trailer. Ill even let Kunce go first, said Hawley.

Kunce says he has accepted the invitation to debate. He also calls on Hawley to prepare for a televised debate next week, along with four others. It is not yet clear on which channels the debates will air on television.

Kunce, 41, is an attorney from Independence, Missouri, with 13 years of military experience in the Marines.

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According to his campaign website, Kunces priorities include banning stock ownership for members of Congress, breaking up corporate monopolies and ending foreign ownership of agricultural land.

Hawley, 44, defeated Democratic incumbent Claire McCaskill for U.S. Senate in November 2018, previously serving as Missouri Attorney General and through the federal court of appeals.

According to his campaign website, Hawley says he has used his seat to take on big opioid manufacturers and crack down on human trafficking, while he is working to promote religious liberties.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Josh Shapiro speaks out after not being picked for VP, responds to Democrats criticism

CAMP HILL, Pa. (WHTM)  Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro spent several weeks on the national stage as part of the Veepstakes that ultimately went to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. The experience certainly wont hurt Shapiro should he seek higher, if not national, office.

However, did criticism he faced from those within his own state hurt his chances of being picked by Vice President Kamala Harris?

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Pennsylvania U.S. Senator John Fetterman reportedly lobbied against Shapiro joining the presidential ticket and was caught on video staying seated during Shapiros fiery speech in Philadephia on Tuesday.

State Representative Emily Kinkead (D-Allegheny) took to social media saying there are many better options, calling Shapiro a thin-skinned politician and saying he wouldnt be comfortable in a number two role.

You know, Shapiro said on Wednesday, throughout my career, Ive never played small ball. Im certainly not going to start now.

Perhaps a bigger deal was his support for school vouchers, which angered teachers unions even though hes delivered record amounts of funding for public schools in this years budget.

There are also Pro-Gaza and Pro-Palestinian members of the Democratic ranks who opposed Shapiro, who is Jewish and fiercely pro-Israel.

I lean on my family and I lean on my faith, which calls me to serve, said Shapiro during the Philadelphia rally. And I am proud of my faith now.

Shapiro also faced complaints that he didnt handle sexual harassment claims against a former staffer Mike Vereb swiftly enough and quietly settled the case. Its possible Harris saw the noise around Shapiro and decided Walz, a former teacher and gun owner, was a safer pick.

A cover-up of bad behavior: Pennsylvania lawmakers react to sexual harassment settlement

Look, Im not going to obviously get into our personal discussion, but the Vice President and I had really candid conversations, said Shapiro, who is believed to have a prominent role in the Democratic National Convention later this month in Chicago.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP)  A lawsuit over the treatment of a child at an embattled troubled teen camp in North Carolina will continue, according to a court ruling.

On Monday, a judge denied a motion by the defendants, Trails Carolina and an individual counselor who worked there, to strike items in the plaintiffs complaint from the record and their request to have the case dismissed.

Earlier this year, Trails Carolina called on the judge to dismiss the lawsuit and strike parts of the amended complaint from the record, primarily parts focusing on the camps forced closure at the hands of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and news coverage of the recent death of a Trails Carolina camper after the initial complaint was filed. The defendants argued that the campers death was not relevant to the 2016 sexual assault of the plaintiff.

The judge disagreed.

Beyond Defendants threadbare assertion that some of Plaintiffs allegations are immaterial and prejudicial, Defendants offer no support for their Rule 12(f) motion, the judge said, stating that Trails Carolina has a high burden of proof to show that the claims are irrelevant and that they failed to meet that burden.  Trails Carolinas closure after two children died in their custody is obviously relevant to at least the duty and breach elements of Plaintiffs negligence claims and the aggravating factors that could support an award of punitive damages.

Trails Carolina camper death ruled homicide by asphyxiation, autopsy shows

The judge added that the Defendants motion to dismiss Plaintiffs Amended Complaint fares no better than Defendants motion to strike.

The defendants had argued that the lawsuit should adhere to the rules of a medical malpractice lawsuit and therefore would have needed to be filed before the plaintiff turned 19 per the statute of limitations. The judge ruled that, while this is technically correct, in 2019, when the North Carolina General Assembly unanimously adopted the SAFE Child Act, the legislature extended the statute of limitations for all such claims to the plaintiffs twenty-eighth birthday.

Trails Carolina also argued that because the victim was a minor, her medical expenses were her parent or guardians burden and not hers, and her appeal for financial relief was invalid. However, the judge stated that it could stand because the Plaintiff could still plausibly recover for pain and suffering and impairment of future earning capacity on the same facts.

For the foregoing reasons Defendants motions to strike and dismiss will be denied, the judge said.

The lawsuit

The lawsuit, filed within days of another campers death, alleges that a female camper, who was 12 years old, was sexually assaulted at Trails Carolina in 2016.

Trails Carolina, by its corporate policies and practices, acts, failures, condonations and omissions, and [counselor] were directly responsible for, and created an environment that enabled [victims] abuse and neglect, as well as the abuse and neglect of other girls who are too victimized and afraid to allow their voice to be publicly heard, according to the lawsuit.

Former Trails Carolina camper recounts stay at embattled wilderness therapy camp; I have nightmares that Im still there

The lawsuit says the then 12-year-old girl was gooned from her home in Vermont around May 5, 2016, when a man and woman who she didnt know took her by force and brought her to the North Carolina camp. She was in the legal custody of the camp until near the end of July.

Within a week of arriving, the lawsuit alleges, a girl in her group had been sexually assaulted.

When she told field staff of the assault, camp officials did not separate the perpetrator, identified only as Jane Doe, according to the lawsuit. Rather than moving the assailant to a different bunk, the counselor in charge of the victim reportedly dismissed the concerns, took away all of the childrens tent privileges and made them all sleep in a line under a

tarp instead, forcing the victim to sleep next to her assailant.

Another girl was allegedly assaulted by the same camper and was removed from the girls group for manipulative behavior after reporting it.

After the first assault, the counselor named in the suit was informed and, after the camp intercepted a private letter from the victim to her parents about the assault, dismissed her claims to the girls parents, reportedly saying, I have no legitimate concerns about any of [the victims] reports.

Despite the facade of providing a safe and therapeutic residential treatment center for children, Trails Carolina has failed to screen and assess the children in its legal custody and creates an environment where troubled children have and do sexually assault other children within Trail Carolinas custody and care, the lawsuit said. Further, Trails Carolina has failed to provide adequate medical care, food, and shelter for the children in its custody.

Former campers have also made allegations against the camp that counselors expected campers to do intense physical activity with inadequate food and drink dirty water from a stream filtered through a bandana. The camp allegedly denied proper first aid for injuries or illnesses.

More broadly, the lawsuit accuses Trails Carolina of failing to adhere to North Carolinas mandatory reporting laws and hiding incidents from parents who send their children to the camp.

Trails Carolina appeals after license revoked over campers death, calls NCDHHS decision detrimental to childrens health

Trails Carolina conceals incidents of physical neglect, child deprivation, injury, and sexual assault and battery between children from the public, including Plaintiff and her family, for the deceptive purpose of lulling parents into a false sense of security when entrusting their children to Trails Carolinas exclusive custody and care, the lawsuit said.

Describing the culture at the camp, the lawsuit says Trails Carolina conditions the children to adhere to the practice of strict obedience of its employees, and encourages an environment of breaking down the children, creating an environment of fear and silence, which creates an environment that fails to protect children from those with aggressive sexual urges.

On March 6, Trails Carolina responded to the Feb. 10 complaint denying all of the claims made in the lawsuit except for factual claims about advertising and whats on the camps now-blocked website.

These answering Defendants further expressly deny that they caused any harm to Plaintiff, the camp wrote in the document.

Inside Trails Carolina

The lawsuit describes Trails Carolina as a for-profit program run by (Wilderness Training & Consulting, LLC), which is part of an organization of for-profit affiliated businesses that does business as Family Help & Wellness.

Trails Carolina, WTC and Family Help & Wellness largely conform to the template of the troubled teen industry, which often involves teens being gooned away from home by force and taken to a wilderness camp over behavioral problems ranging from relatively minor issues, such as truancy, to more severe issues, such as sexually disordered behavior.

The camp charged up to $715 a day in tuition and a $4,900 fee for children to enroll, a price comparable to other similar programs.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services ordered the camp to close in February and took custody of the children in the days following the young mans death. He was the second child to die while in the custody of Trails Carolina, almost ten years after a teenager died of hypothermia.

The medical examiner has ruled the boys death a homicide by suffocation, and Trails Carolina has appealed the closure.

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FILE - Darryl George stands next to his mother, Darresha George, in front of Galveston County Court House, May 23, 2024, in Galveston, Texas. (Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via AP, File)

HOUSTON (AP)  A federal judge on Tuesday dismissed most of the claims in a lawsuit filed by a Black high school student who alleged that school officials committed racial and gender discrimination when they punished him for refusing to change his hairstyle.

The ruling was another victory in the case for the Barbers Hill school district near Houston, which has said its policy restricting hair length for male students instills discipline while teaching grooming and respect for authority.

But in his order, U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown questioned whether the school districts rule causes more harm than good.

Not everything that is undesirable, annoying, or even harmful amounts to a violation of the law, much less a constitutional problem, Brown wrote.

The Associated Press left phone and email messages seeking comment with the school district and George's attorney, Allie Booker, on Tuesday.

George, 18, was kept out of his regular high school classes for most of the 2023-24 school year, when he was a junior, because the school district said his hair length violated its dress code. George either served in-school suspension at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu or spent time at an off-site disciplinary program.

The district has argued that Georges long hair, which he wears to school in tied and twisted locs on top of his head, violates its policy because it would fall below his shirt collar, eyebrows or earlobes if let down. The district has said other students with locs comply with the length policy.

George and his mother, Darresha George, filed a federal civil rights lawsuit last year against the school district, the district superintendent, his principal and assistant principal as well as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The suit also alleged that Georges punishment violates the CROWN Act, a new state law prohibiting race-based hair discrimination. The CROWN Act, which was being discussed before the dispute over George's hair and which took effect in September, bars employers and schools from penalizing people because of hair texture or protective hairstyles including Afros, braids, locs, twists or Bantu knots.

The lawsuit alleged the school districts policy was being enforced mainly on Black students. But Brown said George had not shown a persistent, widespread practice of disparate, race-based enforcement of the policy.

The lawsuit also alleged that Georges First Amendment rights to free speech were being violated. But Brown wrote that Georges lawyer could not cite any case law holding that hair length is protected as expressive conduct under the First Amendment.

Brown dismissed various claims that Georges due process rights under the 14th Amendment were being violated. He also dropped Abbott, Paxton, the district superintendent and other school employees from the case.

The only claim he let stand was an allegation of sex discrimination based on the school district's lack of clearly defined policies on why girls could be allowed to have long hair but boys could not.

Because the district does not provide any reason for the sex-based distinctions in its dress code, the claim survives this initial stage, Brown said.

Browns order comes after a state judge in February ruled in a lawsuit filed by the school district that its punishment does not violate the CROWN Act.

At the end of his ruling, Brown highlighted a 1970 case in which a judge ruled against a school district in El Paso, Texas, that had tried to prevent a male student from enrolling because his hair length violated district policy. The El Paso judges ruling was later overturned by an appeals court.

The judge in the El Paso case had written that the presence and enforcement of the hair-cut rule causes far more disruption of the classroom instructional process than the hair it seeks to prohibit.

Regrettably, so too here, Brown said in reference to Georges case.

Barbers Hills hair policy was also challenged in a May 2020 federal lawsuit filed by two other students. Both withdrew from the high school, but one returned after a federal judge granted a temporary injunction, saying there was a substantial likelihood that his rights to free speech and to be free from racial discrimination would be violated if he was barred. That lawsuit is still pending.

___

Follow Juan A. Lozano: https://twitter.com/juanlozano70
Novo Nordisk Withdraws Wegovy FDA Heart Failure Submission, Terminates Development Of Two Early Stage Assets

Earlier on Wednesday, Denmarks most valuable company, Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO), reported second-quarter earnings that missed the analyst consensus.

In its quarterly earnings presentation, Novo Nordisk said that in January 2024, it submitted the results from Wegovy STEP HFpEF trials for regulatory review in the US and EU.

Based on interactions with the FDA, the company has decided to withdraw the file. It expects to resubmit the file at the beginning of 2025 with additional relevant data, including data from the once-weekly injectable semaglutide 1.0 mg kidney outcomes trial.

The company conducted two HFpEF trials in patients with established HFpEF 1 in diabetes and one in patients without diabetes but with obesity.

When we did the meta-analysis of the two trials, we see a 69% decrease in risk of CV death or hospitalization for heart failure, so absolutely very strong data, said Martin Holst Lange, Executive Vice President, Head of Development, in a conference call.

However, since the studies were reasonably small, Lange added that the FDA wanted to see an increase in the volume of events to substantiate the effect of treatment with semaglutide.

In August 2023, Novo Nordisk announced results from the phase 3 STEP HFpEF trial of once-weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg in adults with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

In March, Wegovy was approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in adults with established heart disease who are obese or overweight.

Due to portfolio considerations, Novo Nordisk terminated the development of Phase 1 once-monthly dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist and Phase 1 trial of VAP-1i in MASH.

Second quarter sales increased 25% to DKK 68.06 billion ($10.21 billion), slightly below the consensus of DKK 68.65 billion ($10.3 billion).

Ozempic sales reached DKK 28.9 billion ($4.3 billion), up 30% at constant currency. Wegovy revenues increased 53% to DKK 11.7 billion ($1.76 billion).

In the U.S., demand for Wegovy exceeds supply, and to safeguard continuity of care, the supply of the initiation dose strength remains capped. Wegovy has achieved broad commercial formulary access, with more than 200,000 weekly prescriptions and around 35,000 weekly new-to-brand prescriptions.

Total weekly prescriptions for Wegovy have around doubled compared to the beginning of the year.

Sales of Saxenda decreased by 19% to DKK 2.25 billion as the obesity care market is moving towards once-weekly treatments.

Novo Nordisk reported a second-quarter net income of DKK 4.49 per share, up 4% year over year, missing the consensus of DKK 5.05.

Story continues

Price Action: NVO stock is down 7.73% at $120.07 at the last check on Wednesday.

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A Maricopa County judge ruled Tuesday in favor of the Arizona Legislature's "Tipped Workers Protection Act," saying it should remain on November's ballot for voters to decide.

A group affiliated with a national organization seeking to hike the minimum wage that's pushing its own ballot measure filed a lawsuit against the legislative referral in June, claiming its title and intent are "deceptive." Judge Peter Thompson rejected the basis of the group's arguments, noting the name of the act  now called Proposition 138  isn't its official title and even if it was, it wouldn't deceive voters.

"Im glad for the ruling but Im not surprised by it," said state Sen. J.D. Mesnard, who sponsored the referral. "The judge said exactly what I've been suggesting from the beginning, when I heard about this lawsuit."

The proposal was supported by four House Democrats and all Republican lawmakers. It would allow employers to reduce tipped workers' pay by 25% below minimum wage if the workers' base salary plus tips equals whatever the current minimum wage is, plus $2 an hour extra. Existing law lets employers reduce pay by up to $3 an hour below minimum wage as long as workers make more than minimum wage.

In a court motion last month, lawyers for the Arizona Restaurant Association said the measure would protect tipped workers' jobs by allowing employers to "operate and hire at economically sustainable levels."

Raise the Wage AZ, which is part of the national One Fair Wage organization, wanted the legislative referral struck from the ballot. It contended the ballot referral is a scheme by Republican lawmakers to thwart its own proposed ballot measure and the group would have to spend more money to educate voters about the difference between the two measures.

Thompson ruled those arguments don't constitute "irreparable harm" to the group.

"Far from voter fraud, the legislative process used for SCR 1040 is created by the Arizona Constitution. There is no allegation that the proper process was not followed," Thompson ruled.

One Fair Wage, led by lawyer and activist Saru Jayaraman, hopes to get its own proposal on the books in multiple states. It asks voters to eliminate the tipping credit for employers over time and approve a new minimum wage increase.

The local campaign filed an estimated 354,278 voter signatures last month with the state for its measure that are still being evaluated by the Secretary of State's Office. The measure needs 255,949 valid signatures to qualify for November's ballot.

The Arizona Restaurant Association, which supports the Legislature's measure, has a pending court challenge alleging many of the signatures turned in by Raise the Wage AZ are not valid.

This was a bogus lawsuit from the start," said Steve Chucri, President & CEO of the Arizona Restaurant Association. It is clear the out-of-state special interests behind the lawsuit simply dont want Arizona voters to have their say this November on the Tipped Workers Protection Act.

Attorney James Barton, who's working with Raise the Wage AZ, said an appeal to the state Supreme Court is likely.

As the group argued in court, the measure will reduce tipped workers' wages and "doesn't provide any kind of protection," he said.

Reach the reporter at rstern@arizonarepublic.com or 480-276-3237. Follow him on X @raystern.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Judge: Lawmakers' Tipped Workers Protection Act can stay on AZ ballot
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney has stepped down as Presiding Officer of the Judicial Qualifications Commission Hearing Panel after more than seven years of service.

The transition marks a new chapter for the commission as the Supreme Court has named Georgia Court of Appeals Judge Brian Rickman as the new Hearing Panel Presiding Officer.

Rickmans four-year term will begin on Aug. 6, 2024.

Serving on the Judicial Qualifications Commissions Hearing Panel has been a highlight of my tenure as a judge, Judge McBurney said. I deeply appreciate the opportunity the Supreme Court afforded me. I also appreciate the need to bring in new leadership so that the Hearing Panel can evolve as an institution. Judge Rickman is an excellent selection to guide the Hearing Panel and to improve on what we have built since its inception.

McBurney took the role right after the restructuring of the JQC in 2016.

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Chief Justice Michael P. Boggs praised McBurneys leadership.

Judge McBurney has exemplified exceptional leadership by developing the Hearing Panels practices and operations based on an entirely new JQC model created in 2016. Under his leadership, the Hearing Panel succeeded in implementing a new adjudication system for judicial discipline matters where every matter before the panel presented uncharted and new challenges, Boggs said.

Rickman, appointed to the Court of Appeals bench in January 2016, also served as chief judge from 2021-23.

His background includes experience as a trial court judge by designation on the Superior Court of the Mountain Judicial Circuit and as District Attorney for the Mountain Judicial Circuit, where he prosecuted JQC matters.

We are thankful for Judge Rickmans commitment to take on this role, and we are confident that his leadership will continue the good work of the Panel, Boggs said.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Judge rules that use-of-force case against the city of Burlington will move forward

After months of anticipation, a Vermont Superior Court judge has ruled that a case accusing Burlington police and the city of excessive force and discrimination against a teenager can move forward.

The lawsuit accuses Burlington police officers and paramedics of acting with racial bias in the intense incident involving a boy of color. The ACLU of Vermont sued the city on behalf of a Burlington mother, who said that police used excessive force and discrimination against her son.

Cathy Austrian said that back in 2021, when her son was 14 years old, he stole vape pens from a gas station. She had called Burlington police to speak with him. Austrian said they used unreasonable force against her son when he refused to give them all but one vape pen.

The city asked for the case to be dismissed, but a judge ordered it to move forward.

Hillary Rich, Staff Attorney at ACLU of Vermont, said I think this update was really a long time coming. So getting this decision that the case is able to proceed on all counts is one step closer to getting the accountability that J.A. and Cathy are long overdue.

Rich told us about how the city argued that the Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act should not apply to police and fire departments in situations like this.

The court not only disagreed with them, but agreed with the ACLU that bodycam footage and other pieces of evidence indicated racial bias was at play, not only when officers handcuffed Austrians son, but also when paramedics sedated him.

Police are not above the law. They still need to honor the anti-discrimination principles that we expect from all who serve the community, Rich continued. Its very, I think, validating to see that that excuse was so flatly rejected in this case, and at this stage, qualified immunity does not protect the city.

The lawsuit will now proceed as usual, and while there hasnt been an exact timeline for next steps shared with the public, Rich said that Austrians goal remains clear.

Cathys focus has been on making sure that this doesnt happen to any other family, Rich said.

Burlington City Attorneys Office has yet to comment.

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A judge has ruled that Proposition 138, also known as the Tipped Workers Protection Act will remain on the ballot for the November election.

Raise the Wage AZ, a political action committee that advocates for wage increases for service workers, challenged Prop. 138 in court back in June, claiming that it was sufficiently deceptive to the point of fraud and creates a significant danger of electorate confusion and unfairness.

In the suit, Raise the Wage AZ asked the court to declare that the proposed constitutional amendment violates the state constitution and to bar the secretary of state from certifying it to be placed on the November general election ballot.

Raise the Wage AZ has gathered signatures to put a ballot measure of its own called the One Fair Wage Act to voters in November and claimed in its suit that placing the competing measure on the ballot will impede the exercise of a free elective franchise.

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But Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Peter Thompson denied the challenge in a Tuesday morning ruling, writing that Plaintiffs have failed to cite to specific authority which would permit this Court, or any court, to remove an Initiative or proposed Legislative Constitutional Amendment because it interferes with or makes passage of a competing ballot measure more or less likely.

Thompson is the same judge who repeatedly shot down Kari Lakes attempts to overturn the results of the 2022 election for Arizona governor.

The Raise the Wage ballot measure would increase the state minimum wage from $14.35 to $18 per hour and would incrementally lower the amount of a workers tips restaurants could use to reconcile their wages with the state minimum, until eventually employers would have to pay all workers the state minimum wage, regardless of whether they receive tips.

Currently, state law allows restaurants to pay tipped workers $3 less than minimum wage and use the workers tips to backfill up to the minimum wage.

In contrast, Prop. 138, which the Arizona Restaurant Association brought to the state legislature, would allow employers to pay tipped workers 25% less than minimum wage  as long as they make at least $2 per hour more than the minimum wage with tips included.

Jim Barton, and attorney for Raise the Wage AZ, argued in the suit challenging the competing measure that it is likely to mislead voters to believe that it will protect tipped workers, when in fact, it exploits tipped workers by subjecting them to an even lower minimum wage than the current subminimum wage that they can be paid and by adding it to the constitution.

But Thompson found that the competing measure was neither misleading, deceptive nor fraudulent.

Each has its own completely different title, a different approach to minimum wage policy and stated means of achieving its purpose, Thompson wrote. Both ballot referrals are the process of legitimate, recognized procedures for placing a referral on the ballot.

In April, Rep. Analise Ortiz, D-Phoenix said she felt bamboozled by a group promoting the resolution that would later become Prop 138 after multiple people wearing Save Our Tips shirts endorsed the legislation in front of the House Commerce Committee in March. Those advocates of the act failed to disclose to the committee that they were either members of the Arizona Restaurant Association or were upper management  and not servers  at restaurants owned by ARA board members.

The measure received support from all Republicans and a few Democrats when it passed through the House of Representatives by a vote of 35-24 in April.

After being voted down once in the Senate, Senate Concurrent Resolution 1040, now known as Prop. 138, finally passed on June 12, with only Republicans voting in favor.

The Arizona Restaurant Association praised Thompsons decision in a Tuesday statement.

This was a bogus lawsuit from the start, and the Arizona Restaurant Association thanks the court for granting our request to have the complaint promptly denied, Steve Chucri, president and CEO of the trade group, said in the statement. It is clear the out-of-state special interests behind the lawsuit simply dont want Arizona voters to have their say this November on the Tipped Workers Protection Act.

In the statement, Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, said that the states largest business group supports the Tipped Workers Protection Act because it will boost pay for workers who rely on tips, protect their jobs and keep down costs for small businesses and the people who patronize them.

This is a balanced, bipartisan and Arizona-led ballot measure, and we are confident it will be supported by voters this fall, Chucri said.

While Thompson wrote that the Restaurant Association-backed measure was not misleading to voters, he added that the short title the Tipped Workers Protection Act, which Raise the Wage took issue with, would not be printed on November ballots.

The political views of whether the goal of tipped worker protection is best accomplished by adopting or rejecting the proposed Amendment should not be conflated with rejection of the proposed Amendment before it even appears on the ballot, Thompson wrote.

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Conditions at Brooklyns notorious Metropolitan Detention Center federal jail are so horrific that a Long Island judge ruled he would vacate an elderly tax scammers sentence and give him house arrest instead if hes sent there.

Long Island Federal Court Judge Gary Brown sentenced 74-year-old Daniel Colucci to nine months behind bars on Monday, but wrote a trap door into his decision so he wouldnt be subjected to the dangerous, barbaric conditions at the Brooklyn jail.

If for some reason the federal Bureau of Prisons sends Colucci to the MDC  which typically houses suspects awaiting trial and sentenced defendants awaiting their transfer to a prison facility  that sentence will be vacated, Brown ruled on Monday.

Browns decision includes a litany of incidents at Sunset Park jail, including includes a recent, caught-on-video stabbing that underscores the severe understaffing there.

Video of that April 27 stabbing shows a lone correction officer arriving on the scene 37 seconds into the three-on-one assault, then shows the victim stagger away unassisted as the correction officer chases the attackers.

In June and July, two MDC inmates were stabbed to death less than six weeks apart,

Allegations of inadequate supervision, unbridled assaults and lack of sufficient medical care are supported by an increasing body of evidence, with certain instances that are irrefutable, Brown wrote. Each of the five months preceding this opinion was marred by instances of catastrophic violence at MDC, including two apparent homicides, two gruesome stabbings and an assault so severe that it resulted in a fractured eye socket for the victim.

Colucci was convicted of a nearly $1 million series of tax frauds, including schemes where he misappropriated sums withheld from his employees paychecks that were intended for tax payments and intentionally failed to make employer matching contributions, Brown wrote.

Those crimes merit incarceration, the judge wrote, but he doesnt want to take the chance that Colucci, who has a host of medical problems and a recent cancer diagnosis, be sent to the MDC.

Though the jail mainly houses suspects awaiting prosecution, about 40 of its nearly 1,300 inmates are not there pretrial, BOP officials said.

White collar defendants with sentences shorter than a year can wind up serving their time at the MDC, defense attorneys told the Daily News.

Given the age and medical condition of this defendant, such an outcome would offer unacceptable risks, Brown wrote.

He called his ruling undoubtedly unusual, but added, the present conditions at MDC make such a sentence materially different than one served at a jail or prison elsewhere in the United States that is appropriately managed.

Brown is one of a growing list of federal judges in New Yorks Eastern and Southern Districts to decry the conditions at MDC. In a blistering January ruling, Manhattan Federal Court Judge Jesse Furman refused to send a 70-year-old convicted drug dealer there post-sentencing, writing, There is no way the grim conditions at the jail will materially improve until the grave staffing shortages are addressed. And that is not going to happen unless the political branches commit considerably more resources to the matter, which seems unlikely to happen any time soon.

A spokeswoman for the federal Bureau of Prisons declined comment on Browns decision, and wouldnt divulge the agencys plans for Colucci.

Coluccis lawyer, Richard Kestenbaum, called Browns ruling unusual, particularly because the judge included photos from inside the jail in his opinion.

I never saw pictures in a sentencing order. He felt pretty strongly about how awful it is, he said.

Colucci remains free under supervision as he awaits his prison designation. Kestenbaum, who was seeking no jail time for his client, said the ruling presents him with a conundrum.

It leaves me in an awkward spot now. Am I supposed to call BOP and try to argue for assigning him to MDC, then it gets vacated? Im not so sure the judge would be too happy with me doing that, the defense lawyer said.

Still, he added, As awkward as this whole thing is, the posture is very awkward, he was sensitive to sending somebody there. So youve got to give him credit for that.
A drone image shows widespread flooding in the Mendenhall Valley on Tuesday morning. (Image courtesy of Rich Ross)

Forty-three people spent the night in Juneaus emergency shelter at Floyd Dryden Middle School on Monday night as a record-high flood from the Mendenhall Glacier inundated homes.

Deputy City Manager Robert Barr said the total number of people who evacuated their homes is likely several times that; shelters are usually a last resort for people who cannot stay with family, friends or in a hotel.

You can imagine how hard it would be to wake up with water in your house, not expecting there to be water in your house, he said.

The Juneau Assembly declared a local disaster emergency and requested state and federal assistance in an emergency meeting at noon Tuesday. Gov. Mike Dunleavy declared the flood a state emergency on Tuesday morning, and a federal disaster request is expected soon.

At the emergency meeting, City Manager Katie Koester said many residents who did not think their homes were in harms way ended up evacuating in the middle of the night.

Residents were just kind of anticipating that they wouldnt be impacted, and then had to leave in a big hurry to come to the shelter. Many of them were wet, she said.

The flood was a foot higher than last years record-breaker that sent buildings tumbling into the Mendenhall River.

Koester said the city is still assessing the damage, but at least 100 vehicles were flooded. Power was back on in the Mendenhall Valley by Tuesday afternoon.

Barr said no one was killed or injured.

No shortage of trauma, I think, exists for many people. Lots of displacement happened, lots of property damage, lots and lots of work ahead of us, he said.

The damage is more extensive this year than in last years flood, officials said. They anticipate the need for short- and long-term shelter, financial support for individuals and businesses, and support for private and public damage.

Eran Hood, an environmental science professor at University of Alaska Southeast in Juneau, studies the glacier. He said many factors determine the volume of the flood, which has only been happening since climate warming caused ice to recede and open up a basin in 2011. But he said events like this operate on decadal time scales, so scientists and the city need to work together in the coming years to understand what changes on the icefield mean for flooding in the valley below.

Theres a very reasonable chance that the magnitude of floods can increase in the future. However, it depends how these different competing factors play out, Hood said, referring to the ways the glacier and remnant ice could evolve in the future.

The city will send people to inspect damaged homes and is working on a solution for trash and debris. Mayor Beth Weldon said city employees are on site with pumps to help people with flooded basements and crawl spaces.

Public works has been all over the place, she said.

Now, local officials are working with the states emergency response to get as much relief for Juneau residents as possible.

It wont be a full and total solution. Those programs arent designed  theyre not funded at a level and theyre not designed at a level to be able to fully make people whole, but they will be a step in the right direction, Barr said.

State, tribal and federal response

Dunleavys disaster declaration makes funding through the states disaster public and individual assistance disaster recovery programs available. The public assistance program reimburses communities for emergency response costs, such as damaged critical infrastructure. Individual assistance comes in the form of grants for families whose primary residences or transportation are damaged, as well as disaster-related medical and other expenses.

I am grateful no one has been injured or killed by this mornings outburst flood. Emergency responders and managers have done an outstanding job keeping their residents safe, Dunleavy said in a statement.

In addition to the Disaster Declaration, I have directed all state agencies to support the community as they deal with this major flooding, he said.

The State Emergency Operations Center sent a supervisor and an operations specialist to Juneau to coordinate the state disaster response and support Juneau officials response.

The states Department of Conservation Division of Spill Prevention and Response is ready to respond to any spills. Rachael Krajewski, the on-scene coordinator for the division, flew over the Mendenhall Valley on Tuesday to check for indicators of potentially hazardous spills in the water.

I didnt see any sheens, any petroleum sheens, nothing that looked like that, she said. Krajewski said she and her staff on the ground in Juneau are looking for overturned home heating oil tanks and other obvious spill sources. Residents who see spills or leaking boats or vehicles can report them to DEC.

Department of Public Safety spokesperson Austin McDaniel said the agency is working closely with the response, but has not yet received a request for assistance from city officials.

Danielle Tessen, a spokesperson for the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, said no state roads have been damaged by the flood, and that as a precaution, inspectors were examining the two road bridges and one pedestrian bridge that cross the Mendenhall River. All three bridges remained open to traffic.

Starting Tuesday afternoon, DOT began flying a drone over flood-affected areas in order to identify clogged drains and other areas needing attention, Tessen said, and state road crews were prepared to help city workers as needed.

The Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska opened its emergency shelter at Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall in downtown Juneau. President Richard Chalyee Eesh Petersen and Jackie Pata, who leads the Tlingit-Haida Regional Housing Authority, toured the flooded area Tuesday morning.

I want our citizens to know the Tribe is ready to respond to the devastating flooding, said Peterson in a statement.

The Tribe estimates that as many as 500 tribal citizens could be affected by the flooding, according to a news release.

Pata contacted the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Tuesday morning to alert federal officials of the pending emergency funding request, the release said.

U.S. Rep. Mary Peltolas office said the Alaska congressional delegation is working together and has been in contact with FEMA. Juneau Mayor Weldon said Dunleavy is scheduled to be in Juneau on Wednesday, as is U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski; Peltola is scheduled to arrive this weekend.

For questions, to report anything or express concerns, email floodresponse@juneau.gov

To report an oil spill, call DECs spill line at 1-800-478-9300 or use the form online.

Tribal citizens whose homes have standing water can call 907-463-7171 or PublicSafety@tlingitandhaida.gov.

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Paul Junge will get another chance to win a seat in Congress and it may be his best opportunity yet.

About 11:35 p.m. on Tuesday, the Associated Press called the Republican primary in Michigan's 8th Congressional District for Junge, who lives in Grand Blanc and had been widely expected to forego another run until last year's surprise announcement by U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Township, that he wouldn't run for a seventh two-year term.

With about 86% of the vote tallied as of 6:50 a.m., Junge had a commanding lead, 75% to 15% for Mary Draves of Midland, a former Dow Chemical executive who had been touted earlier in the race as the Republican to beat in some GOP circles. Grand Blanc small businessman Anthony Hudson had 10% of the vote.

On the Democratic side, the AP declared state Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet of Bay City the winner shortly before 1 a.m. Wednesday. With about 80% of the vote tallied, McDonald Rivet, who had Kildee's endorsement, led with just under 55%, compared to 25% for former Flint Mayor Matt Collier. State Board of Education President Pamela Pugh of Saginaw trailed with just under 20%.

Come back to www.freep.com for updated vote totals.

Just before the AP called the race for Junge, he sent out a message claiming victory, saying he was set to work "to secure the border, rebuild our economy and take on the many failures in Washington D.C." Draves conceded the race around midnight.

McDonald Rivet posted on social media platform X, saying, "Our campaign has always focused on a shared, hopeful vision for the future of our #MI08 region and its hardworking families. That remains our north star as we set our sights on defeating our MAGA (Make America Great Again) extremist opponent in what is one of the most competitive House races in the nation. We have an incredible amount of work ahead of us."

Junge had moved into the district two years ago to challenge Kildee, ultimately losing the 2022 election by about 10 percentage points. In the previous election, in 2020, he lost by less than 3 percentage points to U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin in a neighboring district. Junge is a former Lansing anchorman who also worked as an assistant prosecutor in California and in Washington for the Trump administration.

Draves was initially thought by some political observers to have the edge but Junge went after her directly, arguing that she had worked to support Democrats in the past and pumping more than $1 million of his own money into the race. He recently won the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, which could be help raise his profile dramatically in this district in November.

The race is considered a significant one nationally, with Democrats trying to claw back control of the U.S. House. Although Kildee had no trouble beating Junge, it is widely considered a tossup district without Kildee's name recognition.

The 8th District is comprised of the area around Saginaw Bay, stretching through Bay City to Midland, Flint and Saginaw, a collection of older, industrial areas that have trended more Republican in recent elections. Kildee, who was first elected in 2012, would have been strongly favored for reelection if he had decided to run. When Kildee won, he replaced his uncle, Dale Kildee, in a seat he had held for 36 years.

Contact Todd Spangler: tspangler@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @tsspangler.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Junge, McDonald Rivet win nominations in race to succeed Kildee
A Chinese American was convicted by a New York jury Tuesday on charges stemming from his nearly two decades spying on dissidents for China. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- A federal jury has convicted a Chinese American academic known publicly for his pro-democracy efforts on charges of spying on Chinese dissidents for Beijing.

Following a one-week trial, the New York jury handed down its verdict against Shujun Wang on Tuesday, finding him guilty on four counts of acting and conspiring to act as an agent of a foreign government.

The 75-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen is a founder of the Flushing, N.Y., pro-democracy Hu Yaobang and Zhao Ziyang Memorial Foundation, whose membership includes Chinese dissidents and critics of the People's Republic of China.

But prosecutors accused Wang of using his position to collect and transfer information on Chinese dissidents to his native country for nearly two decades.

"The indictment could have been the plot of a John LeCarre or Graham Greene spy novel, but the evidence is shockingly real that the defendant led a double life, pretending for years to be an activist for democracy while he was secretly passing information to the Chinese government," U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York said in a statement.

"The defendant was a perfect stooge for the PRC, a well-known academic and founder of a pro-democracy organization who was willing to betray those who respected and trusted him."

Court documents show that since at least 2006 Wang operated under the direction of four Chinese officials of Beijing's foreign intelligence Ministry of State Security. At their direction, he was tasked with gathering information on those seen as "subversive" to the People's Republic of China.

Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters, Taiwanese independence advocates and Uyghur and Tibet activists where among those he was tasked with spying on, according to prosecutors, who said Wang communicated with the Chinese intelligence officials over encrypted messing smart phone applications and met with them in person during his trips to his native country.

According to prosecutors, the information Wang collected from private conversations with prominent dissidents, pro-democracy advocates and human rights organization was kept as so-called email diaries that his accomplices were able to access.

In total, some 163 diary entries had been recovered by law enforcement from his residence.

Amid the law enforcement investigation, additional charges were brought against Wang for lying. According to prosecutors, he denied being in contact with the ministry officials over the course of three separate interviews held between 2017 and 2021.

Wang was arrested March 16, 2022, and was charged along with the four Chinese intelligence officials.

When sentenced Jan. 9, Wang faces up to 25 years' imprisonment.

His co-defendants -- Feng He, Jie Ji, Ming Li and Keqing Lu -- remain at large.

China has previously rejected the accusations that it was behind the spying of Chinese dissidents. After Wang was arrested, Beijing lambasted the United States for its "unwarranted denigration and smearing against China."

"The U.S. side should abandon the Cold War mentality and ideological bias, stop groundless accusation and smearing against china and do more to promote China-U.S. relations," said Zhao Lijian, Beijing's foreign ministry spokesman.
COMPTON, Calif. (AP)  A Los Angeles County jury on Wednesday found a man guilty of sending his 17-year-old son to kill rapper PnB Rock.

After deliberating for about four hours, jurors convicted Freddie Trone, 42, of one count of murder, two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy to commit robbery.

Both sides at the two-week trial agreed that the teen walked into Roscoes Chicken and Waffles in South Los Angeles in September of 2022 and shot the Philadelphia hip-hop star while robbing him of his jewelry as he ate with the mother of his 4-year-old daughter.

The prosecution said he was acting on his fathers orders while the defense said Trone was only an accessory after the fact.

The now-19-year-old was charged with murder but is in the custody of the juvenile system and a judge has found that he is not currently competent to stand trial.

The Associated Press does not typically name minors who are accused of crimes.

Another man, Tremont Jones, was found guilty Wednesday of two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy. Jones was not charged with murder.

David Haas, Jones lawyer, said he plans to appeal, while Trone's lawyer, Winston McKesson, said he plans to file a motion for a new trial.

There was no evidence produced that he conspired to commit murder, McKesson told The Associated Press after the verdict. Theres no evidence there was a conversation about murder, no evidence there was a conversation about a gun.

He added, There is no evidence he gave his son a gun, and no evidence he told him to shoot the guy. The only evidence the jury found is that he dropped him off and picked him up.

PnB Rock, the Philadelphia rapper whose legal name is Rakim Allen, was best known for his 2016 hit Selfish and for guest appearances on other artists songs such as YFN Luccis Everyday We Lit and Ed Sheerans Cross Me with Chance the Rapper. He was 30.

The defense made the rare and risky move of putting Trone on the stand, where he vehemently denied any part in prompting the killing.

I never had nothing to do with it," Trone testified Monday. "I wasnt there. I didnt tell nobody to do nothing. I didnt hand nobody no gun.

Trone acknowledged on the stand that the crimes were heinous and that his son was dangerous.

Deputy District Attorney Timothy Richardson seized on both during his closing argument, saying, But you send your 17-year-old son with knowledge of the problems he possesses to do this?

Richardson emphasized to jurors that a non-shooter can be guilty of felony murder when they are a major participant who acted with reckless indifference to human life.

Video showed Trone in the parking lot of the restaurant about 30 minutes before the killing. Trone testified that he had reason to be there because he was drumming up business for his nearby beauty shop.

Richardson showed a surveillance image of Jones fist-bumping Allen, whose arm had valuable pieces of jewelry on it. Prosecutors said Jones then tipped Trone off to the rapper's presence, and his jewelry.
There's nothing new in government officials complaining about judges standing in the way of schemes intended to impose some vision of the good life on the country but found to run afoul of the Constitution and the law. And with Supreme Court popularity low among Democrats, it's an opportune time for President Joe Biden to not only criticize justices but propose a plan for "reforming" the court in ways that might also give his allies greater control over the body. It's undoubtedly a political moveand one that invites a warning from Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch.

'Be Careful'

Asked this week by Fox News's Shannon Bream to respond to the Biden administration's proposed restrictions on the Supreme Court, as well as a constitutional amendment addressing one of its decisions, Gorsuch first cautioned that he didn't think it would be helpful "to get into what is now a political issue." But then he added:

"The independent judiciary means What does it mean to you as an American? It means that when you're unpopular, you can get a fair hearing under the law and under the Constitution. If you're in the majority, you don't need judges and juries to hear you and protect your rights. You're popular. It's there for the moments when the spotlight is on you, when the government is coming after you. And don't you want a ferociously independent judge and a jury of your peers to make those decisions? Isn't that your right as an American? And so, I just say, be careful."

By itself, Gorsuch's response seems rather strong to a three-part proposal for a constitutional amendment rolling back the court's grant of wide-ranging immunity to presidents for official acts, term limits for justices, and a congressionally imposed code of conduct for members of the court. But Biden's proposal comes wedded to complaints that the court isn't producing his preferred outcomes, and amidst a continuous effort to delegitimize the country's highest judicial body.

Extreme Opinions and Shadow Special Interests

"In recent years, extreme opinions that the Supreme Court has handed down have undermined long-established civil rights principles and protections," Biden complained in Austin, Texas, after his administration's proposals were unveiled. He huffed about "scandals involving the justices" and then he alluded to "a decades-long effort to reshape the judiciarybacked by shadow special interests."

In themselves, the proposals are worthy of discussion. In particular, undoing the presidential immunity decision has merit, since it "raises questions about whether a former president can be held criminally liable for outrageous abuses that arguably qualify as official acts," in the words of Reason's Jacob Sullum.

But linked, as the proposals are, to implications that the court's decisions are the result of a corrupt cabal linked to a shadowy conspiracy, it's fair to suspect that a larger effort to hobble the Supreme Court is underway. That brings us to Gorsuch's brief paean to the value of an independent judiciary and his warning to "be careful" lest we lose that important quality.

Perhaps Not So Shadowy or Conspiratorial

"Extreme" opinions, it should be remembered, are in the eye of the beholder. While many of us would dispute decisions rendered by the high court, that doesn't mean that anything nefarious is at work, or that one faction is consistently riding roughshod over opposition.

"This term, the Court ruled unanimously in almost half (46 percent) of cases, which was similar to the year before (48 percent) and a significant uptick from the term before that (29 percent)," the Pacific Legal Foundation's Anastasia Boden noted last month for Reason. Achieving or approaching unanimity "were hot-button cases involving former President Donald Trump's eligibility for the presidency, access to the abortion drug mifepristone, the government's ability to dissuade companies from doing business with the National Rifle Association, regulation of social media companies, and the scope of the Second Amendment."

In particular, collaborations between Justices Neil Gorsuch (Trump-appointed) and Ketanji Brown Jackson (Biden-appointed) on criminal justice matters and challenges to government power "should cheer civil libertarians across the political spectrum," Mark Joseph Stern commented last year in Slate.

But Democrats, and especially progressives, are undoubtedly unhappy about the court's decisions on presidential immunity (at least when it comes to Trump), guns, student loans, the administrative state and, especially, abortion. That dissatisfaction "caused public opinion to question the court's fairness and independence," according to Joe Biden.

OK. But the questioning is highly one-sided.

Partisan Gamesmanship

"Partisans' ratings of the high court, which have been politically polarized in most years since 2000, continue to diverge, with 66% of Republicans, 15% of Democrats and 44% of independents approving," Gallup reported last month.

Given that public trust in government is in the toilet, and that the only institutions in which a majority of Americans have confidence are small business, police (barely), and the military, the Supreme Court is hardly alone in losing the faith of a large segment of the population.

Partisan disagreement over the court is also unsurprising. In this deeply divided nation, people support institutions controlled by their faction and despise those in "enemy" hands. Insincere "reforms" intended to bring the court under the control of other branches of government, especially coming so soon after thankfully short-circuited talk of packing the court with expanded ranks of progressive-leaning appointees, may rejigger which political tribe approves of the court and which doesn't. But they won't improve overall trust.

In truth, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (RLa.) says the Biden administration's proposals are "dead on arrival" in Congress. That makes the plan just an attempt to delegitimize the court and rally the base. For a better solution to the country's woes, Gorsuch has another idea.

Fewer Laws Means Less To Fight Over

"When we turn to law to solve every problem and answer humanity's age-old debates about how we should live, raise our children, and pray, we invite a Leviathan into our lives," he and co-author Jane Nitze warn in an essay adapted by The Atlantic from their book Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law.

They propose a nation of fewer laws and less government. That would give us less to fight about, including high-stakes court decisions and the justices who make them.

The post Justice Gorsuch Warns Biden To 'Be Careful' With Attempts To Control Supreme Court appeared first on Reason.com.
Monday was a brutal day for stocks, as a global sell-off drove the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average to their worst performances in almost two years. The reason for the troubles? A weaker-than-expected U.S. jobs report last week and concern about the absence of interest rate cuts have investors worried about what's ahead.

And this has weighed on many of the market's best performers this year, including star chip designer Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA). The stock, which soared nearly 150% in the first half of the year, slid 11% in two trading sessions, closing on Monday at about $100. It's impossible to predict whether this general market sell-off will continue or to say with 100% certainty that we've reached a bottom. But in either case, the question is: Should you buy, sell, or hold Nvidia right now? Let's find out.

Image source: Getty Images.

Nvidia's market performance

First, let's talk a bit about Nvidia's stock market performance. The shares not only advanced in the first half, but they'd been soaring for quite some time thanks to the company's triple-digit earnings growth. Nvidia dominates the artificial intelligence (AI) chip market, holding 80% share. This is a particularly big deal considering the high demand for AI products today.

Nvidia shares have advanced 2,500% over five years, prompting the company to launch a 10-for-1 stock split back in June to bring them down to earth. A stock split lowers the per-share price through the issuance of more shares to current holders. This doesn't change anything fundamental about a company, but it makes it easier for a broader range of investors to access the shares.

Since the split, when Nvidia stock opened at about $120, the stock has dropped 17%. Seeing this decline, even prior to the sell-off, investors started wondering whether the stock was starting to lose momentum. On top of this, reports of a potential delay in the launch of Nvidia's new Blackwell chip might be weighing on investors' minds.

Meanwhile, as mentioned, the overall market has stumbled over the past few days, roiled by concerns about the economy. Technology and growth stocks have led declines, as they're most vulnerable during times of economic troubles. The growth of these players generally depends on customers having the budgets to buy their products and services, and they also rely on borrowing to expand. So it's clear they could be among the first to suffer during tough times.

Should you buy Nvidia now?

Now, let's consider what you should do about Nvidia. Even when a market environment looks uncertain, it's always important to take a long-term view of stocks and your portfolio. History shows that bull markets, bear markets, sell-offs, and any market environment are temporary situations. Highs and lows come and go, but the fantastic news is market growth has always won out. If we look at the major indexes over time, they've always gone on to gain after tough periods.

Story continues

^SPX Chart

^SPX data by YCharts.

This means, if a particular company has what it takes to withstand a difficult environment and the company's long-term prospects are solid, you'll want to hang onto that player. And that's why Nvidia makes a great buy or hold today. Plus, if you're buying, you'll pick up the shares at a very reasonable level of 37 times forward-earnings estimates, down from nearly 50 times just a few weeks ago.

Nvidia is a leader in a high-growth market, AI, and this market is in the early stages of its growth story. Analysts predict that today's $200 billion AI market will reach beyond $1 trillion later this decade. Nvidia should benefit thanks to its leadership and its focus on innovation to maintain this position. That's why, during this market sell-off, Nvidia makes a fantastic stock to add to any long-term growth portfolio.

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Nvidia Dropped to $100 in the Market Sell-Off: Buy, Sell, or Hold? was originally published by The Motley Fool
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - AUGUST 6: 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. 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  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.

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.

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.

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 an observation Walz made and that the Harris campaign has run with, branding Trump and Vance as weird.

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.

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.

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.

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.
Kamala Harris Continues Blue Suit Style Streak With Tim Walz and His Wife Gwen at Philadelphia Campaign Rally

Vice President Kamala Harris and her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, made their official campaign debut at a Democratic rally held at Girard College in Philadelphia on Tuesday. The duo entered the stage together, coordinating in power suits, and were received by a euphoric crowd.

Harris, whos been in a sartorial blue style streak during her presidential campaign, wore a navy suit and a satin pussy-bow blouse in a peach pink shade  the style has become a signature of the vice president over the last years in the White House.

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Kamala Harris and Tim Walz appear onstage together during a campaign event at Girard College on Aug. 6 in Philadelphia.

Walz wore a darker tailored suit with a white shirt and a blue tie that coordinated with Harris outfit. His wife Gwen wore a light blue dress with a matching cardigan.

The blue hues were worn to represent the color of the Democratic party, while power suiting has long been a consistent piece of Harris political wardrobe.

The Harris-Walz campaign event kicked off a five-day road trip across seven crucial swing states, including Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada.

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz appear on stage together during a campaign event at Girard College on Aug. 6 in Philadelphia.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who was considered for the vice presidential nomination, welcomed Harris and Walz to the stage. Shapiro also embraced the blue wave for the occasion, wearing a navy tailored suit and white button-down shirt.

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz appear on stage together during a campaign event at Girard College on Aug. 6 in Philadelphia.

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, Shapiro said.

(L-R) Second gentleman Doug Emhoff, Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and his wife Gwen Walz greet supporters during a campaign rally at Girard College on Aug. 6, 2024 in Philadelphia.

Walz, a 60-year-old Midwestern governor and military veteran, was announced on Tuesday as the Democratic vice presidential candidate. Harris introduced him to the crowd saying, 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, and thats the kind of vice president America deserves.

(L-R) Second gentleman Doug Emhoff, Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, Gwen Walz and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz talk on stage during a campaign rally at Girard College on Aug. 6, 2024 in Philadelphia.

Thank you, Madam Vice President, for the trust you put in me but, maybe more so: Thank you for bringing back the joy, Walz said.

Kamala Harris and her husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, right, at Philadelphia International Airport.

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Launch Gallery: Kamala Harris' Campaign Rally Style: Suited With Tim Walz in Philadelphia & More Looks, Live Updates [PHOTOS]

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Joe Biden and Kamala Harris receive a briefing in the Situation Room on Middle East tensions from the White House National Security team on Monday August 5.. (White House release)

As Kamala Harris sat alongside Joe Biden in the Situation Room on Monday evening, she may have felt some trepidation. The president and vice president were about to be briefed  for hours  on the threat of regional war between Israel and Iran. Harris was now advising as vice president on a war she may soon have to take on as president.

Israels assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyehin in July, at a crucial moment in a months-long White House effort to reach a ceasefire deal, has brought the Middle East to the brink of war. It has also, importantly, brought US-Israel relations to breaking point.

Harris has been in the room as the Gaza war has spread over the past ten months. As the White House now prepares for an Iranian response that would inevitably draw in US forces sent to the region to protect Israel, she has retained that front-row seat.

She was on the call when Biden reportedly erupted in fury at Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for after the assassination of Haniyeh, which sparked this latest round of fighting and likely collapsed a ceasefire deal with Hamas in Gaza.

Stop bullsh*tting me, Biden reportedly told the Israeli prime minister on Thursday, frustrated over Netanyahus unwillingness to agree to a ceasefire.

Dont take the president for granted, he added.

Vice President Kamala Harris meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House grounds on July 25, 2024 (REUTERS)

Biden finally losing his patience after months of seemingly being strung along by Netanyahu is a moment that may define US-Israel relations for years to come. And Harriss proximity to the fallout should give her the opportunity to avoid repeating Bidens mistakes.

She has had a front-row seat and a fantastic mentor on foreign policy over these last  four years, Brett Bruen, a former US foreign service officer who served as Director of Global Engagement during the Obama administration, told The Independent.

Even the senators who present themselves as strong on national security have never sat in the Situation Room and had to drive towards a decision. Theyve never had to implement a policy, and those are points in Harriss favor, he added.

If Harris manages to defeat Donald Trump in November, she may face an even bigger regional crisis than the one Biden had to contend with.

As she campaigns for the presidency, the Middle East is bracing for an all-out regional war. US officials warn that Iran could launch retaliatory strikes on Israel at any moment.

The last time that happened  in retaliation to an Israeli air strike on an Iranian consulate in Syria that killed 12 people, including two senior generals in the Revolutionary Guards elite Quds Force  US and British jets shot down hundreds of Iranian drones over Jordan, Iraq and Syria.

The reaction this time is expected to be much more severe. On Monday evening, just hours before the Situation Room briefing, at least five US personnel were injured in an attack against a military base in Iraq. More and much larger attacks are anticipated.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris walking across the tarmac after greeting reporter Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva and Paul Whelan at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., following their release as part of a 24-person prisoner swap between Russia and the United States, Friday, Aug. 2, 2024. (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Irans leader Ayatollah Khamenei has vowed "harsh punishment" against Israel for the assassination of Haniyeh.

Both killings were blamed on Israel which also claimed to have killed the commander of Hamass armed wing Mohamed Deif, the architect of Hamass massacre on October 7th.

The war in Gaza, and the regional fallout, have loomed large over discussions about Bidens legacy. The presidents unconditional support for Israel in the face of a massive civilian death toll and famine in Gaza had become a drag on his chances for re-election. It even prompted an organized campaign by Arab Americans  usually a reliable part of the Democratic base  to defeat him in November. And his unwillingness to condition military aid to Israel gave Netanyahu leeway to pursue a maximalist approach in Gaza and beyond.

Since announcing her candidacy, Harris has sought to strike a different tone on the Israel-Palestine conflict. She has spoken about Palestinian suffering with a directness that was missing from Bidens own statements, calling the destruction in Gaza devastating and declaring that she will not be silent following a meeting with Netanyahu.

Harris also skipped Netanyahus controversial speech to Congress  a decision which angered some Israeli officials.

Many progressives, and those who oppose the war in Gaza, hope that these initial signals from Harris may turn into concrete policy changes.

U.S. President Joe Biden is welcomed by Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu, as he visits Israel amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 18, 2023 (REUTERS)

Just the fact that shes been leaning into the humanitarian crisis a bit more and lifting up the needs of Palestinians and Palestinian lives and Palestinian rights and dignity in a way that Biden hasnt, I think is important, Matt Duss, former foreign policy advisor to Senator Bernie Sanders and now vice president of the Center for International Policy think tank, told The Independent.

But the hope is that a President Harris would potentially be willing to enforce restrictions on the use of US weapons. Thats something Biden has not been willing to do, he added.

Besides her shift in tone, and a more equal distribution of concern over civilian casualties on each side, Harris has not yet given any concrete proposals about how she would approach the Israel-Palestine conflict  and the subsequent fallout  any differently from Biden.

She does not have the same decades-long relationship with Israel that Biden has. But her on-the-job experience as vice president throughout the conflict, during which time she saw Biden repeatedly caught off-guard by Netanyahu, may make her more likely to take a tougher line. It is not unusual for American presidents to inherit wars from their predecessors  but rarely has a candidate for the Oval Office had this kind of access to a conflict that could define their own presidency.

Many were looking to Harriss choice of running mate for clues on how she might approach the issue, with some activists expressing concern over the possibility that she might choose Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro as her running-mate.

Shapiro was, for much of the last few weeks, rumored to be the favorite to become the Democrats vice presidential nominee. In response to the rumors, pro-Palestinian voices took pains to brand him as Genocide Josh for his support for the war in Gaza and his condemnation of anti-war protesters.

Activists also raised concerns about his candidacy after it was revealed he had volunteered for the Israeli army as a high school student and worked in public relations at the Israeli embassy in Washington DC.

Walz, a former member of the House of Representatives, has a different record. He has been a reliable backer of the Israeli government throughout his time in Congress and has described support for the US ally as a non-partisan issue. But the North Star State governor has also expressed a willingness to take into account the concerns of pro-Palestinian voters amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

When some 18 per cent of voters in his own state cast uncommitted votes in the Democratic Party primary  ostensibly in protest at Bidens support for the Gaza war  Walz said they and their concerns should not be dismissed out of hand.

Weve got eight months. Weve got to bring these people back in and listen to what theyre saying, Walz said at the time. Take them seriously. Their message is clear, that they think this is an intolerable situation and we can do more, and I think the president is hearing that.

If US forces are forced to engage Iran in a significant way, Harris may be forced to spend more time in the Situation Room than on the campaign trail in the next three months. And if the crisis continues beyond this latest round of tit-for-tat, it will likely interfere with the best-laid plans for her presidency.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  Hot on the heels of announcing her running mate this week, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris is returning to the place where she launched her political career. Vice President Harris will headline a fundraiser in San Francisco on Sunday.

An online invitation for the event posted by Harris fundraising committee, the Harris Victory Fund, offered few details beyond the date, this Sunday, Aug. 11. The time for the event is yet-to-be announced.

An address for the event will be provided upon RSVPing, according to the invitation. The cost of admission ranges from $3,300 up to $500,000.

Trump says San Francisco was the best city in our country 20 years ago

This weekends fundraiser follows Tuesdays announcement and rollout of her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. The Harris campaign has been working on a truncated timeline since President Joe Biden dropped his reelection bid last month.

Harris, a Bay Area native who began her political career when she was elected to San Francisco District Attorney, has been climbing in the polls. She now leads former President Donald Trump in several national polls and has closed the gap, or overhauled Trump, in some swing state polls.

It is not clear if Harris running mate Gov. Walz will also be present at the San Francisco fundraiser. Walz recently gave an interview where he described visiting San Francisco for the first time, calling it the most beautiful city he had even been in.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
With less than 100 days to go before the 2024 presidential election, the Democratic ticket has pivoted hard in the direction of "freedom" as a campaign strategy. But how serious are they about it, really?

Within 48 hours of President Joe Biden ending his reelection campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris locked up enough of his delegates to secure the Democratic nomination. Yesterday, Harris announced her choice for running mate: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a plain-speaking progressive who pioneered the strategy of calling Republicans "weird."

On Tuesday, at their first joint campaign rally in Philadelphia, Walz deployed some of the folksiness that apparently won him Harris' pick. On the topic of abortion rights, he offered some choice words for their opponents.

"Some of us are 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 doctor's office," he said. "In Minnesota, we respect our neighbors and the personal choices that they make. Even if we wouldn't make the same choice for ourselves, there's a golden rule: mind your own damn business!" The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, and Walz said he heard chants of "mind your own damn business."

Walz: In Minnesota we respect our neighbors and their personal choices that they make. Even if we wouldn't make the same choice for ourselves, there's a golden rule, mind your own damn business. pic.twitter.com/TRQNlbySlE  Acyn (@Acyn) August 6, 2024

In a fawning segment on his MSNBC show, Lawrence O'Donnell called Walz's turn of phrase "nothing less than the single best political message the Democrats have ever delivered about abortion and reproductive freedom."

Indeed, the message is strikingeven downright libertarian. It fits well into Harris' campaign theme, in which she dropped Biden's focus on "democracy" in favor of "freedom." Within days of securing her party's presumptive nomination, Harris deployed her first campaign ad, which not only chose "freedom" as its theme but featured the Beyonce song of the same name.

But Harris' ad, like Walz's declaration at the rally, is unfortunately limited in its view of what "freedom" truly means.

"We choose freedom," Harris intones in her ad, "the freedom not just to get by, but get ahead; the freedom to be safe from gun violence; the freedom to make decisions about your own body. We choose a future where no child lives in poverty, where we can all afford health care, where no one is above the law"that last one delivered over an image of former President Donald Trump's mug shot taken last year in Georgia.

Libertarians may feel that much of this rhetoric stretches the definition of what freedom truly means. After all, "the freedom to be safe from gun violence" is a laudable goal, but in practice, it seems to run against the constitutionally guaranteed right to keep and bear arms. "Throughout her career, Harris has been a vocal advocate for reinstating a ban on assault weapons, the weapon of choice for mass shooters and extremists," touts a press release from the gun control advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety. "As California Attorney General, Harris led the fight to pass a Red Flag law, becoming only the third state at the time to do so." Walz, as Minnesota's governor, similarly signed legislation to institute red flag laws.

If you truly believe in "the freedom not just to get by, but get ahead," then you should support making it as easy as possible for a person to earn a living.

Yet the Biden-Harris administration has favored tougher enforcement of tax laws in ways that would disadvantage people with lower incomes. While gig economy companies like Uber and Etsy were previously required to report users to the IRS who earn at least $20,000 on their platform, a provision in Biden's 2021 pandemic relief bill would have lowered the threshold to $600. And when the administration proposed hiring 87,000 new IRS agents, it suggested that the extra enforcement would allow the agency to monitor people's use of services like PayPal and Venmo, to make sure their transactions match their reported incomes.

The Harris ad's support for "the freedom to make decisions about your own body" is also commendable, as is Walz's exhortation for anti-abortion Republicans to "mind your own damn business." But that involves more than just abortion rights: It also includes the right to access experimental drug treatments that have not been officially sanctioned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). MDMA, for example, shows great promise for treating mental health disorders like post-traumatic stress, but the FDA has yet to approve its use, and in June, an FDA advisory panel voted overwhelmingly to recommend against approval.

True bodily autonomy would also include the right to take drugs that are approved in other countries but have not been sanctioned by the FDA. But the Right to Try Act of 2017 was introduced by a Republican, Sen. Ron Johnson (RWis.), and signed into law by Trump, who bragged about the law in his speech at the Republican National Convention. But the FDA reported that in 2023, only four drugs were used under Right to Try.

"While more exceptions made more often would be an improvement on the status quo, the need for these exceptions and the extremely high stakes for obtaining them shows that there is something deeply wrong with the underlying process," Reason Editor in Chief Katherine Mangu-Ward wrote in 2021 about the FDA.

In fairness, Harris and Walz have been liberty-friendly on other issues: Last year, Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana in Minnesota. And despite a history of locking up marijuana users as a prosecutor in California, she has been a more forceful advocate of legalization than either Trump or Biden.

But if the Democratic presidential ticket is going to choose "freedom" as its rhetorical guiding light, the candidates should consider opening up their respective definitions of what that means and the numerous ways in which people can be free. "Mind your own damn business" makes a perfect rallying cry for more than just abortion and reproductive rights.

The post Kamala Harris Is Running on 'Freedom.' Does She Mean More Than Just Abortion? appeared first on Reason.com.
Vice President Kamala Harris and her newly announced running mate Tim Walz are barnstorming across battleground states this week after making their electric debut in Philadelphia on Tuesday night.

Harris and Walz  the presumptive Democratic presidential ticket  will next appear together in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday and then Las Vegas, Nevada, on Saturday.

Their Republican rivals Donald Trump and JD Vance have been tailing them on the campaign trail, with dueling stops in Michigan and Wisconsin earlier this week.

Harris and Walz have had to postpone scheduled visits to North Carolina and Georgia due to severe weather under Tropical Storm Debby. Trump and Vance have also postponed their North Carolina rallies. Those events will be rescheduled, according to the campaigns.

President Joe Biden won those swing states in the 2020 presidential election  except for North Carolina  and flipped Arizona and Georgia for Democrats by razor-thin margins.

Harris and Walz kicked off their tour in Wisconsin with a rally and performance from Bon Iver on Wednesday afternoon. Governor Tony Evers and Senator Tammy Baldwin also joined the event.

That night, they were in Detroit before holding another campaign event in Michigan on Thursday.

With Harris and Walz heading west, Vance is spending the weekend at fundraising events in Texas.

Trump, who has been fundraising in Florida, will hold a rally in Montana on Friday, his first major campaign event in a week.

Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and running mate Tim Walz are holding rallies in several battleground states this week, with Republicans Donald Trump and JD Vance making their own stops (AP)

At their Philadelphia rally on Tuesday night, 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.

Harriss 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.

Walz  a 60-year-old military veteran, former school teacher and congressman and the current governor of Minnesota  told the crowd that Trump doesnt know the first thing about service, because hes too busy serving himself.

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 and drove the economy into the ground, adding: Make no mistake: violent crime was up under Donald Trump.

Thats not counting the crimes he committed, Walz added.
How Kamala Harris and Tim Walzs Debut Merch Went Viral With A Camo Hat, Thanks to Chappell Roans Midwest Princess Inspiration

The MAGA hat has found competition. On Tuesday, vice president Kamala Harris announced her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, as the official Democratic vice presidential candidate. A couple of hours later, the duo released their first viral piece of merchandise: a camo hat with Harris Walz emblazoned on the front.

The hat, retailing for $40, is manufactured by Unionwear, a manufacturer based in Newark, N.J., specializing in union-made products, including hats, bags and binders.

More from WWD

The Harris-Walz camo hat.

The Harris Walz hats were initially available to preorder on Sept. 23, but due to popular demand, the shipping date was updated to Oct. 7. Every purchase will serve as a donation to the Harris Victory Fund, a joint fundraising committee supporting Harriss presidential campaign and Democrats nationwide.

The merchandise release came right after memes comparing Tim Walz with current pop music darling Chappell Roan went viral on social media. Roan, like Walz, is from the Midwest  she was born in Willard, Mo.  and has her own version of the camo hat with the words Midwest Princess available on her official website.

Chappell Roans camo hat.

Roan has been speedily rising in the music scene since the debut of her last album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, which features hits including Femininomenon, Red Wine Supernova and Hot To Go! On Aug. 1, Roan drew one of the largest daytime crowds in Lollapaloozas history with her performance at the festival in Chicago.

After seeing the Harris Walz camo hats on X (formerly known as Twitter), Roan posted: Is this real?

Promoting the merch and his campaign, Walz posted a picture of himself wearing the hat, after he attended the Democratic rally held at Girard College in Philadelphia with Kamala Harris. Capping off the night, he said.

Harris and her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, made their official campaign debut in Philadelphia on Tuesday. The duo entered the stage together, coordinating in power suits, and were received by a euphoric crowd. The event kicked off a five-day road trip across seven crucial swing states, including Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada.

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Launch Gallery: Kamala Harris' Campaign Rally Style: Suited With Tim Walz in Philadelphia & More Looks, Live Updates [PHOTOS]

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Vice President Kamala Harris and her newly minted running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, will visit Phoenix this week as part of a tour of swing states.

It will be one of their first appearances together on the campaign trail since Harris picked Walz from a shortlist of contenders that also included Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz.

Arizona Democrats, including Kelly, have praised Walz as a unifying choice and effective messenger for the partys priorities. Republicans meanwhile have cast him as a dangerously liberal extremist.

The event puts Harris on track to break the record for Grand Canyon State visits leading up to a presidential election.

Heres what you need to know about Harris and Walzs upcoming visit to Arizona.

Latest news: Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in Arizona

Where in Arizona will Harris and Walz visit?

Harris and Walz will hold the rally on Friday at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, The Arizona Republic has confirmed.

Their visit is part of a tour of seven battleground states. The pair made their debut Tuesday in Philadelphia, with stops planned in Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona and Nevada for the remainder of the week.

Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, the Republicans vice-presidential nominee, will match that itinerary with a tour of his own. He will make stops in many of the same battleground states to speak with the media and hit Harris on the GOPs top issues: crime, the economy and immigration.

When is the Harris-Walz rally in Phoenix?

The rally will take place on Friday evening, according to the campaign. They have not announced a specific time.

Harris and Walz are scheduled to arrive at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on Thursday evening, after campaigning in Michigan.

Who is Tim Walz, Harris running mate?

Walz was elected Minnesota's 41st governor and his tenure began in 2019.

Walz, 60, brings political acuity, 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 Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio.

A military veteran, former public-school teacher and six-term congress member, Walz is serving the sixth year of his eight-year stint as governor of the North Star State.

Vice President Kamala Harris stands with her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as Harris holds a rally at Temple University in Philadelphia on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

He was born in West Point, Nebraska, and grew up in Valentine, Nebraska. He joined the National Guard at 17 and served for 24 years. He earned a social science degree at Chadron State College in 1989 and a Master of Science in educational leadership from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2001.

He went on as a U.S. representative for Minnesota's 1st Congressional District, serving six terms in the House from 2007 to 2019.

As Harris was mulling a vice presidential pick, Walz gained attention for his plain-speaking style and his takedown of Republicans as weird, a message that resonated with much of the Democratic base.

How are Arizona politicians reacting to Walzs candidacy?

Kelly, who was one of the people under consideration as Harris running mate, congratulated Walz on his selection.

Theyre already building a campaign to unite our country, Kelly wrote, saying the ticket is going to move us forward.

Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., called Walz a true public servant with a strong record of reaching across the aisle to get results for working people.

Meanwhile Republicans have cast Walz as a dangerously liberal extremist.

Former President Donald Trumps campaign has emphasized the 2020 unrest that rocked Minneapolis following the murder of George Floyd by a white police officer, Walzs efforts while governor to cut carbon emissions in Minnesota, and his support for legislation that gave people convicted of a felony the right to vote after they had completed their prison sentence.

How many times has Harris visited Arizona during the election cycle?

With her Friday visit, Harris will tie the record for Grand Canyon State visits during an election year and the year preceding it, according to an Arizona Republic tally of presidential and vice-presidential candidate visits since 1996.

Harris has visited Arizona seven times since the start of 2023, with three months still to spare before the November general election.

Trump made seven visits to Arizona ahead of the 2016 election. Trump and then-Vice President Mike Pence visited Arizona another seven times ahead of the 2020 election.

Harris last visited Arizona in late June, for an event held on the two-year anniversary of the Supreme Courts rollback of the landmark abortion case, Roe vs. Wade.

The USA Today network contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Kamala Harris and VP pick Tim Walz to visit Arizona: 5 things to know
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Lauri Ealom, the Democratic Election Board director for Kansas City, Missouri, said voter turnout for Tuesdays primary election seemed lower than she expected.

Were at about 14, 15%, maybe 20% projected for the day if it doesnt pick up more, but we anticipated a larger turnout than this, especially with the cooldown, Ealom said. So I really dont know whats happening.

Ealom said there was also some confusion about party affiliation on ballots among some voters.

So whats happening is people are picking the wrong party like a Libertarian ballot, and the person that theyre trying to vote for is not a Libertarian, Ealom said. So I think its imperative that folks know that you cant vote across ballots.

August Primary Election results in Missouri, Kansas

Missouri has an open primary, which means voters can select an issues-only ballot or a ballot featuring only Republicans, Democrats, or Libertarians. But you cant vote for multiple parties.

Election officials say its important to check your status and affiliation before going to the polls whether thats on Tuesday or in November.

In Missouri, voters had two special election questions.

One of them is Amendment Four. This is the second time Missouri voters have seen it.

If passed, it increases the required funding by the City of Kansas City for the police department from 20% of general revenue to 25%.

The only thing that stood out to me on the ballot was the police funding, said Carl Bowman, a Kansas City voter. Im a little controversial about that. The only reason is that the Kansas City police are the only police in the state of Missouri that are governed by the state instead of the city government.

After passing in the 2022 election, Amendment Four was challenged in a lawsuit filed by Mayor Quinton Lucas. The judge ruled in his favor and had the state put it on the ballot again.

For some voters, having their voices heard about local questions and races is a priority.

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Its very important for us to be civically engaged here at the local level, said Maureen Gowen, a Johnson County, Kansas voter. A lot of us will vote in presidential elections and the big ones, but its really important for us to participateeverybody in the smaller races so that we all have a voice in what happens in our communities.

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By Maggie Fick

LONDON (Reuters) -Novo Nordisk on Wednesday trimmed its full-year profit outlook after reporting weaker-than-expected quarterly sales of its popular weight-loss drug Wegovy, stirring worries among investors about stiffening competition from Eli Lilly.

The results end a prolonged streak of positive earnings news from the first mover in the obesity drug race which has seen its value surge to more than $500 billion, making it Europe's most valuable listed company.

Novo shares, which have soared some 230% since the company launched Wegovy in June 2021, fell as much as 7.7% in early trading and were still down 5.8% at 1410 GMT, putting them among the biggest fallers on the broader STOXX 600 and on track for their biggest one-day drop in two years.

Chief Financial Officer Karsten Munk Knudsen in an interview called the reaction unsurprising, given the market's sensitivity to Novo's mega-blockbuster drug Wegovy.

Second-quarter profit also missed expectations, and the softer results were "in sharp contrast to the massive sales and earnings beats we have seen last year", said Markus Manns, a portfolio manager at Novo shareholder Union Investment in Germany.

Novo, like U.S. rival Lilly, is racing to expand production capacity to meet runaway demand, with its dominance in the fast-growing obesity drug market, which some forecast could be worth about $150 billion by the early 2030s, at stake.

Some analysts found the company's upgrade to its sales outlook for this year - to between 22% and 28% in local currencies from 19% to 27% previously - to be a reassuring sign that Wegovy supplies are improving.

But in a mark of the challenge facing Novo, U.S. patients are on average staying on Wegovy for just six months, with an executive attributing the short time to the low availability of the wildly popular drug.

The company also said it will continue restricting supplies of the lowest or starter dose of Wegovy to the U.S., where that dose remains in shortage, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

On Friday, the FDA updated its website to note that all dose strengths of Lilly's Zepbound are available. Lilly will release quarterly numbers on Thursday.

CONCESSIONS

CEO Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen downplayed concerns over competition from Lilly in a call with journalists, saying he did not see those dynamics having a big impact on sales in the foreseeable future, while demand far exceeds supply.

CFO Knudsen said U.S. prices of Wegovy were lower this year due to a variety of anticipated factors including price concessions to get insurance access in various channels.

Story continues

Wegovy is now covered by Medicaid plans in 20 U.S. states, Novo said on Wednesday, and investors saw the increased access to the treatment at a lower cost as one factor that drove the Wegovy sales miss.

Sales of Wegovy, Novo's first-to-market weight-loss drug, rose 53% to 11.66 billion Danish crowns ($1.7 billion), well below the 13.54 billion expected by analysts, while those of Ozempic, a diabetes drug with the same active ingredient, also just missed expectations.

Second-quarter sales were also knocked by higher-than-expected rebates, or price concessions to U.S. pharmacy benefit managers. CFO Knudsen said it was a "quarterly blip".

The Danish company cut its operating profit growth forecast this year to between 20% and 28% in local currencies from 22% to 30% previously.

Novo ended an advanced kidney disease trial in June, resulting in a 5.7 billion Danish crown impairment loss which it said hit operating profit.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Novo is spending billions of dollars to lift Wegovy production to meet demand and fend off Lilly, which launched its rival therapy Zepbound in the U.S. last December.

While the two companies are now going head-to-head with obesity treatments in a number of markets including Britain and Germany, the most lucrative one by far is the U.S., where more than 70% of adults are obese or overweight.

Novo also said it had withdrawn its submission to U.S. and European regulators for approval of Wegovy to treat heart failure and kidney disease, and plans to resubmit with more data at the start of 2025.

($1 = 6.8397 Danish crowns)

(Reporting by Maggie Fick; Editing by Terje Solsvik, Tomasz Janowski, Sonali Paul and Jan Harvey)
Kansas City woman charged in stabbing of man during fight on RideKC bus: Court records

A Kansas City woman accused of stabbing a man three times during a fight on a Kansas City bus has been charged with assault, court records show.

Shaunte L. Washington, 31, faces charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action for her role in the Monday afternoon stabbing. Police also identified a second suspect, who has not yet been charged.

The stabbing took place on a RideKC bus around 1:30 p.m. Monday in the Midtown neighborhood of Kansas City, near 31st Street and Troost Avenue, The Star previously reported.

The victim suffered stab wounds to both thighs and a knife wound to the back of his arm, according to court records. One of the stab wounds damaged his femoral artery.

The stabbing victim, who was not named in court documents, told officers that he got involved after Washington got into an argument with another female rider. Washington started cursing at the rider, prompting the victim to intervene so that Washington would not physically assault her, court documents show.

The second suspect then stepped in, saying he wasnt going to let the victim lay a hand on Washington, at which point all four riders started arguing.

As the fight escalated, the victim told police that Washington pulled out a knife and threatened to kill the female rider, according to court documents. Hearing this, the victim pulled out a baton and the unnamed suspect began punching him, court documents read.

At the same time, he said Washington stabbed him in both thighs and the back of the arm.

Another witness told police that Washington also hit the victim several times with his own baton, according to court documents.

After the stabbing, a Kansas City Area Transportation Authority security officer got on the bus and ordered Washington at gunpoint to drop her weapons, according to court documents. She dropped the baton but would not give up the knife, court documents read.

When Kansas City police officers responded to the bus, they found that the security officer had handcuffed Washington to a railing inside the bus, according to court documents.

The victim and the second suspect were both transported to an area hospital, The Star reported.

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority declined to comment on the stabbing. The Kansas City Police Department initially classified the incident as an aggravated assault, Capt. Jake Becchina, a KCPD spokesperson, said Monday.

Washington alleged the other woman involved in the fight had pointed a gun at her during the altercation, but this was not consistent with surveillance video footage reviewed by police, according to court documents.

Washington previously faced property damage charges related to two separate incidents in December 2023 and January 2024, as well as harassment charges filed in December and assault charges filed in 2017, according to court records.

Washington is being held under house arrest with a $750,000 bond, according to court records. She has also been ordered not to ride any more public buses in Kansas City.

Her first court date has not yet been set.
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly became chair of the Democratic Governors Association following resignation of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who stepped down a chair of the DGA after accepting an offer to be Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate. Kelly has served as DGA's vice chair for nearly two years. (Democratic Governors Association)

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly became chair of the Democratic Governors Association following resignation of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who stepped down a chair of the DGA after accepting an offer to be Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate. Kelly has served as DGA's vice chair for nearly two years. (Democratic Governors Association)

TOPEKA  Gov. Laura Kelly will transition to chair of the Democratic Governors Association to complete the term of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, who complied with the organizations rules by resigning after chosen to be Vice President Kamala Harris running mate in the 2024 presidential election.

Kelly, who served as vice chair since December 2022, assumed the chairs position of the partisan organization dedicated to electing and reelecting Democratic candidates for governor.

With reproductive freedom, democracy and voting rights on the line, the stakes couldnt be higher, and its never been more important to elect Democratic governors, Kelly said.

Walz stepped down Tuesday from the DGA post in accordance with bylaws that prohibit candidates for federal office to lead the organization.

In addition to the presidential election in November, 11 states conduct simultaneous gubernatorial elections.

I know what it means to win tough races in a red state, Kelly said. The DGA was by my side for two tough fights in 2018 and 2022, and Im glad to be by theirs as we sprint to the finish line to elect Democratic governors in key states across the country and build on the DGAs record of success this fall.

In 2022, Kelly won reelection against then-Attorney General Derek Schmidt. Four years prior, she beat then-Secretary of State Kris Kobach to move from the Kansas Senate to the governors office. Republican Donald Trump, who endorsed Schmidt and Kobach in those gubernatorial races, carried Kansas in the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections.

Kelly credited Walz with the DGAs fundraising success from January to June. Reports showed the organization raised $61 million in the period.

Meghan Meehan-Draper, executive director of the association, said the DGAs objective during the final three months of the 2024 election cycle was to bring attention to issues of greatest concern to voters.

By focusing on the issues that matter most to Kansans, Governor Kelly has shown what effective leadership looks like, and has been a huge asset to the DGA in her role as vice chair these last two years. Governor Kelly knows what it takes to win tough races in some of the most challenging environments.
DENVER (KDVR)  A mans body was recovered from the Giberson Bay area of Dillon Reservoir on Tuesday.

The body was found by a group of kayakers and reported to the Summit County Sheriffs Office at about 8:30 a.m. The man was only described as a white adult male.

Son arrested in Colorado after fathers body found in Wyoming

A preliminary investigation found no signs of foul play and no elevated risk to the publics safety. The man was also found to not be wearing a personal floatation device.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The sheriffs office was able to recover the mans body. He has not been identified, but his body is in the care of the Summit County Coroners Office, which will determine his identity and the cause and manner of his death.

Our hearts go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic loss, said Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons in a release. While the cause and manner of death are yet to be determined, this incident reminds us of the importance of wearing PFDs.

The office is still investigating the mans death. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Taylor Piper at 970-423-8958 or taylor.piper@summitcountyco.gov.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Kehoe vs. Quade: How the next Missouri governor will shape the future of abortion access

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.

The two major Missouri candidates for governor  Republican Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and Democratic House Leader Crystal Quade  offer starkly different positions on abortion. Kehoe opposes abortion while Quade supports the right of women to choose to end a pregnancy.

Missouri currently bans abortion but the choice for governor holds significant consequences.

Missourians in November will likely also decide whether to approve an amendment to the state constitution overturning the states ban. The measure would enshrine a strong right to abortion and other forms of reproductive health care.

If approved, whoever becomes the next governor will wield influence over how quickly  or slowly  abortion access is restored in the state. He or she will decide whether to ease the path for providers or fight them every step of the way.

At the end of the day, I think they are going to vote to restore abortion rights, Emily Wales, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes, said of Missouri voters. And its concerning you might have an elected official leading the state who opposes what Missourians think on that issue.

Kehoe and Quade secured their partys nominations in Tuesdays primary election, setting up a showdown in the November general election. Republicans have dominated statewide elections in recent years and Quade faces an uphill climb, but Democrats also believe the amendment will help energize voters.

Whoever wins will select the next director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, a cabinet-level position. Before Missouri banned abortion in 2022 when the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade, DHSS regulated abortion clinics in the state  and would oversee them again if access is restored.

At the time, a single clinic offered surgical abortions in Missouri  a Planned Parenthood location in St. Louis. If the abortion rights amendment passes this fall, providers would almost certainly look to open and reopen clinics across the state.

While the purpose of DHSS regulation is to implement state law, Kehoe or Quade will set the tone for the agency in who they choose to lead it. If the agency is aggressive or hostile toward providers, it could slow the process of rebuilding a clinic network.

Roadblocks to abortion access

DHSS under a former director, Randall Williams, refused to renew the license of a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Louis in 2019. The agency said the decision was based on an inspection that turned up records of complications in a handful of surgical abortions, as well as the clinics refusal to force some doctors to sit for interviews with state officials.

The denial triggered a legal battle, with Planned Parenthood arguing the decision reflected the anti-abortion politics of Republican Gov. Mike Parson, who endorsed Kehoe. The legal discovery process revealed that state investigators, looking for evidence of failed abortions at the clinic, had compiled a spreadsheet of patient information that included dates of womens menstrual periods.

The resulting fury led to calls for Williams resignation and protesters dressed in red as characters from The Handmaids Tale, lined up outside a hearing with signs saying Williams tracks patients periods. DHSS pushed back, noting that no names were disclosed and that the patient information was compiled as part of regular reporting Planned Parenthood did under state law.

Wales said that if the amendment passes, lawsuits will help determine what abortion laws comply with the new constitution and which must be struck down. At the same time, she pointed to DHSS under Williams as an example of how hostile, anti-abortion political leaders had put up roadblocks for clinics.

Its absolutely true, however, that the people who hold office in Missouri can have a major effect on how the laws are implemented, but also just how the working relationships are with state agencies, Wales said.

Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is expected to announce by next week whether supporters of the amendment gathered enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot. Supporters said in May they turned in roughly 380,000 signatures, well above the 171,000 necessary. Officials across the state have been verifying signatures since then.

If the amendment fails to qualify, or if voters reject it at the general election, Missouris abortion ban will remain in place. The ban includes no exceptions for victims of rape or incest and only allows for abortion in medical emergencies. Lawmakers in the GOP-controlled General Assembly are unlikely to send to the governors desk any legislation expanding abortion access.

Kehoe vs. Quade

Kehoes campaign last year said he was open to adding rape and incest exceptions  and he affirmed that stance on Tuesday under questioning from reporters. Abortion rights supporters have largely rejected that concession as far from sufficient and if voters approve the amendment the question of exceptions would be moot.

Asked about what he would do if the amendment passes, Kehoe, who took questions before polls closed, contrasted his record with Ashcroft, an opponent who once suggested he would resign from office if the Missouri Constitution protected abortion rights. Ashcroft appeared to walk back those comments in a TV debate last month and on Tuesday said he would have continued to do what he could to protect life if elected.

I would suggest the pro-life community does not need quitters if that were to pass. Youre going to need people who will continue to fight for innocent life and do what we can to protect innocent life and thats what I would do, Kehoe said, without offering specifics.

Quade was asked directly during a TV debate last month what steps she would take as governor to protect abortion access if the amendment passed. She also largely steered clear of specifics in her answer.

I deeply understand how important this is for folks and I am so excited that were going to have the opportunity in November to take the rights back that we absolutely need to have in our state, Quade said.

Quade said she will ensure as governor the General Assembly will listen to the voices of Missourians and what happens on Election Day will be upheld.

That appeared to be a not-too-subtle reference to vetoing anti-abortion legislation. If the amendment passes, the Republican-controlled legislature would almost certainly attempt to pass bills designed to test the limits of the new constitutional rights in court.

A similar process is playing out in Kansas after voters in 2022 rejected a state constitutional amendment that would have overturned a state Supreme Court decision protecting abortion rights. Lawmakers responded by passing a bill requiring abortion providers to survey women about the reason for their abortion; while women werent required to answer, aggregate data would be compiled into public reports.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed the bill, but the Legislature overrode the veto. The survey law is now on hold as abortion providers challenge it in court.

In Missouri, Quade would also potentially face veto overrides. Republicans currently hold supermajorities in the House and Senate, though its possible the party could lose that status in at least one chamber in November.

Kehoe, on the other hand, would likely sign most legislation sent to him.
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)Shreveport native and multi-platinum Grammy-nominated rock artist Kenny Wayne Shepherd has a lot to celebrate. Between the bands recent induction into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame, the upcoming release of their new album, going on tour, and joining the Experience Hendrix Tour this fall, theres a lot to look forward to.

Shepherd took some time out of his busy schedule to talk with us about his journey from Shreveport to becoming a blues rock superstar and about what comes next.

Shepherd was surrounded by music growing up, and Shreveport was a perfect place for it. He was heavily influenced by the Mississippi Delta Blues musicians who passed through Shreveport and the numerous musicians who played at the Municipal Auditorium downtown.

I think theres over 20 members of the Country Music Hall of Fame that got their start on the Louisiana Hayride at the Municipal Auditorium. So theres a lot of country music history. Theres also a lot of rock and roll history with people like Elvis Presley, and weve got all the bases covered. And then, being from Louisiana, you got Cajun Zydeco. You got jazz, the birthplace of jazz music, and everything in between.

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Kenny Wayne Shepherd on 11/2/97 in Chicago, Il. (Photo by Paul Natkin/WireImage)

Born to Shreveport radio personality and promoter Ken Shepherd, young Kenny Wayne picked up the electric guitar at the age of 7, but his interest in playing began even earlier. His grandmother bought him a toy guitar at the old S&H Stamps when he was four.

I learned how to play silly things like Smoke on the Water and Mary Had a Little Lamb. Simple three-chord, three-note type things on those guitars, shared Shepherd. And that kind of started my whole passion and excitement around guitar as an instrument. I was drawn to it.

The turning point came when he attended a concert featuring the late rock legend Stevie Ray Vaughn.

I got to see Stevie Ray Vaughan play, which was at Veterans Park Amphitheater down by Clyde Fant Parkway, which doesnt exist anymore. But that was where the concert was that my dad booked him to do the Louisiana Music Festival, and I saw him play. And that was when I was like, I need a real electric guitar, you know. I want to do that. I want to play like that. I want to affect people like that and have that kind of passion in my playing.

He formed a band at 15 and often spent days rehearsing in the garage of his friend Michael Long. The band began performing at local venues like Shooters and the Monday Night Blues Jam at Tommys Place.

Shepherd said his parents were supportive of his passion but wanted him to finish school at Caddo Magnet High before he signed a recording contract. They worked with the school during the end of his senior year so he could have time to record and still turn in his work on time.

At age 18, he released his first album, Ledbetter Heights, named after the historic neighborhood in Shreveport that was once the home of blues legend Huddie Lead Belly Ledbetter. Shepherds single Deja Voodoo is still a fan favorite.

When the band released its platinum-selling breakout album, trouble Is in 1997, they rocketed to stardom. The album was a heady mix of blues, southern rock, and country. Their hit single, Blue on Black, spent ten weeks on the Billboard Top 100 Chart.

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Blues legend B.B. King, right, and fellow blues guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd share a laugh during a rehearsal at Kings new restaurant and club in New Yorks Times Square, Tuesday June 20, 2000. The 16,000-saqure-foot venue is to open tonight. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA  DECEMBER 10: (L-R) Buddy Guy and Kenny Wayne Shepherd perform at the Tim Irsay Collection & Concertat Bill Graham Civic Auditorium on December 10, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Steve Jennings/Getty Images)

Shepherds rise to fame was a whirlwind, he said.

I started messing around with the guitar at age four. I got my first electric guitar at age seven. I got on stage for the first time when I was 13. I did my first demo recordings at age 14. I formed my band at 15. I signed my record deal at 16. I recorded my first album at 17, and then my album came out when I was 18, and the first single went to number five on the rock charts. The album sold half a million records, went gold, went on to go platinum, and then its been full on ever since.

A lot of things need to fall into place to produce and market an album, Shepherd explained, and musicians may have great songs but not find the same kind of success.

I was lucky we had a good team. It was a Warner Brothers owned label, but it was called Giant Records, and Irving Azoff. Hes one of the biggest, most powerful guys in the industry. That was a kind of a small label at the time, but it was just the right group of people, I think, to really kind of launch my career at that time.

The success of his first three albums built a strong foundation and special connection with the fans, Shepherd added.

People who like this music are not fair-weathered fans because this music isnt trendy, so it never goes out of style. My first album, I think, is timeless. Its 30 years old, but you could still listen to it and enjoy it today.

And thats the great thing. These fans become lifelong fans of the music. Theyve been with us for almost 30 years now. And theyre the main reason why were still able to make new records today and play sold-out concerts in the majority of the places that we set up at.

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The bands not slowing down any time soon. On July 13 they were inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame during a show in Baton Rouge. Louisiana Music Hall of Fame President Mike Shepherd took the stage to present the plaque to Kenny Wayne in front of a cheering crowd.

Its incredible! Shepherd exclaimed when asked about his reaction to being inducted. It takes me back to when I was a kid and just sitting in my moms living room playing guitar with headphones on, or standing in front of the mirror posing, holding a guitar, trying to pretend like I was some sort of rock star, and imagining what it would be like.

He is extremely proud to be included in the Northwest Louisiana Walk of Stars in Shreveport and said hes honored to be inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Northwest Louisiana Walk of Stars (Source: KTAL/KMSS staff)

Im proud to be from Louisiana; thats where my roots are. Thats where my formative years as a young person built the foundation blocks for my adult life. It all happened there. And so to be recognized by my people, by my home in my home state, its just absolutely incredible.

The band is on a whirlwind tour promoting its new album, Dirt On My Diamonds, Volume 2, which drops Sept. 20th with the new lead single I Got A Woman.

While the band has released albums that focused on traditional blues or rock music, Shepherd said Dirt on my Diamonds, Vol. 2 incorporates some new and different elements.

Ive always used that (blues) as the foundation, and then tried to incorporate other things to make music that sounds current, and sounds contemporary, and sounds different and fresh and a little bit younger sounding.

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Kenny Wayne Shepherd Bands album Dirt on my Diamonds Volume 2 cover (Source: Shepherd Entertainment)

Dirt On My Diamonds, Volume 2 is the spiritual successor to volume one, but with unique sounds and grooves all its own. The idea to stagger the album aims to match the way people consume music today and keep the momentum rolling.

Ive never released two albums within the span of less than 12 months apart from each other. I started thinking of trying to do something different, and I thought, well, maybe itd be cool if we made them companion albums and release them a little bit closer together.

In the age of streaming, the Internet, and social media, musicians need to consistently release new music to keep fans engaged, he added.

The Dirt on my Diamonds Tour continues through September 20th, but that doesnt mean the band will have time to rest! Theyll join other musicians on the Experience Hendrix Tour, which will make a stop in Shreveport on Oct. 13th.

Youre paying tribute to the greatest guitar player of all time, and theres an incredible lineup of guitar players on that tour. Everybody from Dweasel Zappa to Zakk Wylde to Eric Johnson and a lot of talented young people as well. And so, its going to be a pretty great night.

Shepherd and the band will be back again soon.

Well probably come back and do a 30th anniversary Ledbetter Heights concert at some point, maybe towards the end of 2025 or the beginning of 26.

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK  MAY 20: Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Noah Hunt visit SiriusXM Studios on May 20, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images)

Fans can also look forward to more great music in the not-too-distant future.

I feel like Ive been more productive creatively in the past few years, probably in the past 6 or 7 years than ever. I mean, right now, Im working on 4 different albums, all at one time, right? And I think thats great. And its not really necessarily because Im trying to keep up with this rollout of content. Thats just a part of the equation. But I feel like Im being super inspired and and super creative right now. And so Im rolling with it, and Im trying to keep it going.

For more information on tour dates, new releases, and more, visit https://www.kennywayneshepherd.net/.

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SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  The attorney for Kim Taylor, wife of a Woodbury County supervisor, has submitted an argument for why the court should reverse Taylors convictions on 52 counts of election fraud.

A brief of the argument was filed on Friday, Aug. 2. In the brief, Taylors attorney argues that she should be acquitted on all charges due to insufficient evidence and errors by the trial court.

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Kim Taylor is the wife of Woodbury County Supervisor Jeremy Taylor. She was first arrested on the counts of voter fraud in January 2023, when the U.S. Department of Justice said she was involved in a scheme to generate votes for her husband in two separate races for U.S. Congress and the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors.

The charges stem from eight instances in which paperwork for voters she assisted had errors. According to the brief, Taylor has a history of helping people exercise their right to vote.

She is accused of fraudulently and knowingly preparing their paperwork to help her husband in his two campaigns. Taylors attorney argues that there was not enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that she broke the law regarding four of the voters or that she did so intentionally regarding any of the eight voters.

Taylors attorney also alleges that the court, in framing her case, failed to draw a sufficiently precise line between lawful, constitutionally-protected Get Out the Vote efforts and unlawful voter fraud so as to avoid chilling political activity protected by the First Amendment. Her attorney requested a new trial if any of the 52 charges are upheld.

A jury found Taylor guilty in November 2023 of 26 charges of false information in registering and voting, three charges of fraudulent registration, and the remaining 23 charges of fraudulent voting.

Kim Taylor was sentenced on April 1 to a total of eight months of incarceration. Four of those months were to be in federal prison and the other four at home. She was also ordered to serve two years of supervised release beginning at the time of her home confinement. She must also pay a special assessment of $100 per charge for a total of $5,200.

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After being found guilty, Taylor filed for an acquittal on Dec. 1, 2023, claiming there was insufficient evidence supporting her conviction. On Jan. 18, 2024, a judge denied the request for an acquittal, rejecting her four arguments.

Taylor filed to appeal her sentencing on April 9. The appeal came a week after her then-defense attorney asked to withdraw as her counsel, stating she is asking for new counsel to be appointed on appeal and in furtherance and support of her motion.

Taylor reported to the Federal Corrections Institution in Waseca, Minnesota in May.

Jeremy Taylor was named as an unindicted co-conspirator in a trial brief in the case, but he did not take the stand during the trial.

You can read the full Aug. 2 brief of the argument below:

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Wesley Thoene 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 SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
Knife-Wielding Man Allegedly Threatened 3-Year-Old and Attacked Cop. Then They Found His Partner Dead

Lizbeth Arceo Sedano, 25, was found dead after her partner allegedly threatened to harm her daughter, per police

GoFundMe Lizbeth Arceo Sedano

Authorities in California are investigating the death of a woman whose partner allegedly threatened to harm her 3-year-old and attacked an officer shortly before her body was found.

Lizbeth Arceo Sedano, 25, was not reachable by her family or authorities when her partner Joshua Gonzalez was arrested after allegedly threatening to harm her child and attacking an officer, police in Watsonville, Calif., said in a statement on Sunday, Aug. 4.

Police expressed serious concerns about Sedanos well-being in their statement and asked for help finding her, adding that her family has said it was out of character for her not to answer phone calls or text messages.

According to Watsonville police, Gonzalez was outside the police department on Saturday evening when he allegedly called the dispatch center claiming he was armed with a knife and was going to hurt the three-year-old child.

He allegedly told the dispatcher the child is his stepdaughter, police told SF Gate.

When a first responder got out of a patrol car and ordered him to drop the knife, Gonzalez allegedly charged at the officer, prompting him to shoot him, the statement claims. He was taken to a trauma center. The child was unharmed in the incident.



Watsonville Police Department Joshua Gonzalez

On Monday, deputies dispatched to a Santa Cruz location found a deceased body, which they soon identified as that of Sedano, the sheriffs department said later that day.

The Santa Cruz County Sheriffs Office is investigating the death as suspicious, adding that the investigation will continue while authorities work to determine her cause and manner of death.

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.

The statements from either department did not name any charges against Gonzalez, who was in stable condition after the shooting.

In a GoFundMe set up to for her funeral expenses and financial needs for her daughter, Sedano's family said she was outgoing, loving, and most of all she was a dedicated mother to her 3-year-old daughter.

Lizbeth's death was tragic and our family will never be the same again, the fundraiser stated.

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Read the original article on People.
What to know about the controversy over a cancelled grain terminal in Louisiana's Cancer Alley

Lynda Van Davis, Greenfield's counsel and head of external affairs, announces that the company is "ceasing all plans" to build a grain export facility in the historic Black community of Wallace, La., in St. John the Baptist Parish, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Jack Brook)

NEW ORLEANS (AP)  An agricultural company made the surprise decision Tuesday to cancel a project to build a massive grain terminal in a historic Black town in Louisiana's Cancer Alley," a heavily industrialized stretch of land along the Mississippi River.

The company, Greenfield Louisiana LLC, and its supporters  including Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry  blamed special interest groups, plantation owners and the Army Corps of Engineers for delaying construction on a grain export facility which would have brought jobs and development to St. John the Baptist Parish.

But community organizers and environmental advocates said the company had brought the problem on itself by attempting to install a 222-acre (90 hectare) facility in an area filled with nationally recognized historic sites and cultural spaces worthy of preservation and investment.

The Army Corps of Engineers said the company had chosen to build in the middle of an area with environmental justice and cultural concerns" which required it to prove it could comply with a range of laws.

What Greenfield promised

Greenfield said that its $800 million grain terminal would have generated more than 1,000 construction jobs, north of 300 permanent jobs, $300 million in state tax revenue and $1.4 million in direct state and local taxes.

The company said its facility was expected to drive transformative social and economic benefits to the local community" and play a significant role in connecting American farmers with global markets. The facility had been designed with the potential to store 11 million tons of grain.

On its website, Greenfield features testimony from a range of parish residents pledging their support for the facility and the economic growth they believed it would bring.

St. John the Baptist Parish President Jaclyn Hotard described the company's decision as a devastating blow to economic development" and lamented the loss of hundreds of jobs at a state-of-the art, eco-friendly facility.

What caused Greenfield to pull the plug?

Greenfields Van Davis blamed the projects failure to advance on the repeated delays and goal-post moving we have faced have finally become untenable, and as a result, our local communities lost.

The company said the Army Corps of Engineers had recently extended the deadline for the fifth time, pushing a decision on the project's permits to March 2025.

But Army Corps of Engineers Public Affairs Specialist Matt Roe disputed Greenfield's framing in an emailed statement.

Roe said the company had to show compliance with multiple laws, including the Clean Water Act and the National Historic Preservation Act, and that the regulations do not set forth a prescribed timeline for the process.

Roe said the projects location was in a setting with many cultural resources and that the Corps review has been timely in every respect.

The Corps has found the project would adversely impact historic sites. Greenfield had said it would take steps to preserve any historical sites or artifacts found during construction.

What was at stake?

Governor Jeff Landry pinned the blame on the Army Corps of Engineers for bringing additional delays by listening to special interest groups and wealthy plantation owners instead of hardworking Louisianans.

Opponents included the sisters Joy and Jo Banner, whose nonprofit The Descendants Project has bought land in the area  including a former plantation  to protect their town's heritage. They gained national recognition for their efforts to invest in preserving history of enslaved people and their descendants.

But they are not the only people who thought there should be more focus on finding other avenues to bring jobs and growth to the historic Black town of Wallace and the surrounding parish.

Whitney Plantation Executive Director Ashley Rogers oversees a nearby National Register Historic District which draws 80,000 visitors a year from around the world. The area surrounding the proposed grain terminal site offers two centuries of well-documented history and culture containing huge potential for the community to capitalize on, she added.

There is also a National Historic Landmark, Evergreen Plantation, and the Willow Grove cemetery for descendants of the formerly enslaved which would have been adjacent to the 275-foot-high grain terminal.

There does need to be economic development, Rogers said. I just think it can be done in a way that doesn't permanently destroy the heritage, the culture and the environment and ruin people's livelihoods and homes, right?

Fighting in and out of the court

From Greenfield's representatives to community activists, everyone acknowledged the fight over the project had been exhausting and brutal.

In recent months, flyers attacking local activists opposed to the grain terminal were distributed throughout the community, including images featuring racist tropes. Greenfield representatives denied the company had any connection to the flyers.

There are multiple ongoing lawsuits related to the facility filed by the Descendants Project related to zoning changes and tax exemptions for the company.

Joy Banner, of the Descendant Project, has also sued Parish Council Chairman Michael Wright in federal court for allegedly making threats against her at a council meeting. Wright did not respond to a request for comment.

___

This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Joy Banner's first name on first reference. It is Joy, not Joyce.

___

Jack Brook 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.
What to know about the Milwaukee County Treasurer race between David Cullen and Ted Chisholm

Elections to fill the partisan office of Milwaukee County treasurer have often been quiet, sometimes with no competition on the ballot.

That changed this year with longtime Treasurer David Cullen, 63, fending off a political newcomer with a well-known name: Ted Chisholm, 25, son of Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm. Both are running as Democrats in the Aug. 13 primary race. With no Republicans running, the Democratic primary will determine who holds the office next.

Here's what to know about the two candidates.

What does the Milwaukee County treasurer do, what does the job pay?

The county treasurer acts as a banker of sorts, administering all county-related monies, investing funds not for daily operations, as well as collecting delinquent real estate taxes.

Whoever is elected can reap the benefits of a recent pay bump of 11.5% that will see salaries for three of the county's top elected officials  treasurer, county clerk and register of deeds  jump to $102,000 in 2025.

Chisholm, however, has said he would not accept the pay increase if elected.

Who is David Cullen?

Cullen was elected treasurer in 2014 and previously served as a Democratic state legislator as well as a member of the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, where he was co-chair of the county's finance, personnel and audit committee. Cullen is also an attorney, passing the Wisconsin State Bar 1984.

According to Cullen, he has earned the county more than $27 million in investment income in 2023, negotiated more than 500 payment plans with delinquent property taxpayers, as well as collecting roughly $90 million in delinquent property taxes.

His most recent campaign finance reports show he has received more than $30,000 in contributions and, as of July 14, had roughly $46,000 cash in hand.

Financial backers include Milwaukee County Supervisor Sheldon A. Wasserman. Groups supporting Cullen's campaign include "Friends of Israel Ramon" and "Citizens for Christenson"  two groups tied to Ramon, the county's register of deeds, and George Christenson, the county clerk. Those officials are running unopposed.

Cullen spent more than $8,100 on Facebook campaign ads, campaign literature, yard signs, and postage and mailings for his campaign, his campaign finance reports show.

Who is Ted Chisholm?

Running as a reform candidate, Chisholm served as senior administrator for management, finance and strategy at the county Clerk of Circuit Court's Office until January of this year before leaving the position to campaign for treasurer.

In 2019, then-Milwaukee County Sheriff Earnell Lucas hired Chisholm for an $85,000-a-year chief of staff job. Chisholm also previously worked as a part of Lucas' campaign staff.

Chisholm has acknowledged he does not have a college degree after he dropped out of Macalester College in St. Paul, Minn., after he was hired to work for the county.

He told the Journal Sentinel he brings a "bold vision" of a Treasurer's Office that would serve the community "more effectively," help homeowners in need, and do more to restore vacant and abandoned properties from tax delinquency to the tax base.

Chisholm has raised almost $46,000 in contributions, according to his July campaign finance reports, and has roughly $20,000 cash in hand. He has received donations of $100 from his father, unchallenged Milwaukee County District Attorney candidate Kent Lovern and his attorney wife Susan Lovern. Other contributors include: Clerk of Circuit Court Anna Maria Hodges, Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office Inspector Brian Barkow, and former Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele, who donated $6,000 to his campaign.

Both Chisholm and Cullen have provided substantial donations to their campaigns, with Chisolm contributing to more than half of his total donations and Cullen contributing more than two-thirds of his donations, according to reports.

Experience and qualifications become a talking point

Experience, or lack thereof, has become a talking point in the race.

Chisholm called Cullen's leadership "not effective" and "not engaged," calling Cullen a "career politician."

Cullen seized on what he sees as Chisholm's lack of qualification.

"I really think this office needs someone with more experience and credentials than being a political operative without a college degree," Cullen said of Chisholm.

Cullen recently added in an email to the Journal Sentinel that Chisholm's two jobs were "political appointments," that he has no experience investing millions of dollars nor negotiating payment plans with delinquent property taxpayers.

Chisholm disputed Cullen's claim he had no experience investing millions of dollars, saying during his time as one of two deputies to the county Clerk of Circuit Court he managed more than $20 million in CD accounts and a money account at the end of 2023.

"The reality, whether the Treasurer likes it or not, is that during my tenure in county leadership I was engaged in the direct and successful management of critical financial resources and services," Chisholm said.

A Cullen campaign mailer has generated questions

Earlier this week, Chisholm called on Cullen to pay more than $24,000 back to taxpayers after the incumbent sent about 40,000 taxpayer-funded mailers in April featuring a handful of pictures of him with his grandchildren.

Cullen has denied that the newsletter was campaign-related and was aimed at highlighting to constituents issues addressed during his time as treasurer. He told the Journal Sentinel he stands by his statement.

Late last month, Cullen's wife paid more than $1,000 for a list of county voters who voted in the partisan primary races in 2020, 2022 and 2023. Cullen expensed the request, which was repaid by his campaign committee, Friends of David Cullen, according to his recent campaign finance report.

Cullen did not respond to an email asking if he would return the money.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include information Chisholm supplied about his background investing public funds.

Contact Vanessa Swales at 414-308-5881 or at vswales@gannett.com. Follow her on X @Vanessa_Swales.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: David Cullen, Ted Chisholm face off for County Treasurer on Aug. 13
Get to know Somerset County's new educational leaders for the 2024-2025 school year

There are two fresh faces amongst the lower shore's educational leaders in Somerset County.

Get to know both individuals here before the 2024-2025 school year kicks into high gear.

2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR: Key dates for Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset schools. First and last days, plus more.

Somerset County names new Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Ava Tasker-Mitchell, recently named the next Superintendent of Somerset County Public Schools, will assume duties on July 1, 2024.

Somerset Count Public Schools has named its next superintendent as Dr. Ava Tasker-Mitchell. She succeeds Dr. John Gaddis, who served as superintendent from 2013 to 2024. Tasker-Mitchell is no stranger to the Maryland Eastern Shore, and officially began her duties as superintendent on July 1.

She was most recently an Instructional Director for Prince Georges County Public Schools/Assistant Superintendent of Schools. She has over 20 years of experience as a public school educator in Maryland, with most of her tenure being in the Anne Arundel County Public School System.

We are fortunate for the opportunity to appoint a professional of Dr. Tasker-Mitchells caliber to lead our school system," said Board of Education Chairman Bill McInturff. "Together, we are optimistic about meeting our challenges and helping our students reach their academic potential while readying them for future success."

SOMERSET COUNTY'S NEW SUPERINTENDENT: Somerset County has named new superintendent of schools. Get to know all about her.

Meet Washington Academy & High School's new Interim Principal

Mr. Shelton Handy, former Assistant Principal at Washington Academy & High School (WAHS), was recently named the schools new Interim Principal after the departure of former Principal, Mr. Tony Bevilacqua, at the end of the 2023-2024 school year.

Shelton Handy, former Assistant Principal at Washington Academy and High School (WAHS), was recently named the schools new Interim Principal after the departure of former Principal Tony Bevilacqua at the end of the 2023-2024 school year. Now, Handy and his administrative team are spending the remainder of the summer preparing for the upcoming school year.

Now entering his 11th year in education, Handy began his career with Somerset County Public Schools teaching 8th through 12th grade math at WAHS. In the 2021-2022 school year, Handy joined the schools leadership team. He served as WAHS Dean of Students for one year before being promoted to Assistant Principal in 2022-2023, where he served for two years.

I have a passion for the students, staff and the community of Washington Academy and High School, and I am excited to serve in this new capacity," Handy said of his new role at WAHS. "Academic achievement and creating an inclusive school culture are major priorities as I step into my new role as Interim Principal.

OCEAN RESCUE MADE IN OCEAN CITY: Life-saving rescue in Ocean City, MD: How beach patrol hero saved one young surfer's life

Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Back to school: Somerset County welcomes new leaders for 2024-2025
PLA continues Peace Unity-2024 exercises in Africa

09:10, August 07, 2024 By Liu Xuanzun and Guo Yuandan ( Global Times

The Qilianshan, a Type 071 comprehensive landing ship of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, arrives in waters off Mozambique on August 2, 2024 ahead of the Peace Unity-2024 joint exercise. Photo: Screenshot from the official WeChat account of the PLA Navy

The Chinese People's Liberation Army's (PLA) Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises in Africa is progressing smoothly, with a Chinese warship kicking off a joint naval drill with Mozambique on Tuesday after two other Chinese vessels wrapped up their joint naval drill with Tanzania earlier on Monday.

The PLA Navy's Type 071 comprehensive landing ship Qilianshanis joining the Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises from Tuesday to Thursday, having arrived in waters off Mozambique on Friday, practicing training courses including maritime patrol, VBSS (visit, board, search and seizure), maritime rescue, as well as counter-terrorism and counter-piracy with Mozambique, the PLA Navy said in a press release on Monday.

On its way to Mozambique from Tanzania, the Qilianshanconducted joint search and rescue as well as counter-terrorism and counter-piracy training in preparation of the joint exercises, the PLA Navy confirmed.

The start of the joint naval exercise with Mozambique came after the conclusion of joint naval exercises with Tanzania, also under the banner of the Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises.

Vessels participating in the China-Tanzania joint exercise wrapped up their sea phase training courses and returned to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on Monday, according to a China Central Television (CCTV) report.

Against the background of safeguarding maritime transportation security in waters to the east of Tanzania, the joint naval drill featured the PLA Navy's Type 071 comprehensive landing ship Wuzhishanand Type 052D guided missile destroyer Hefeias well as four patrol vessels from Tanzania, CCTV reported.

They practiced main gun shooting, joint search and rescue, counter-terrorism and counter-piracy, VBSS and joint patrol maneuvers, the report said.

The land phase of the Peace Unity-2024 joint exercises has begun to incorporate tactical training, as Chinese and Tanzanian forces have been practicing drills together at a comprehensive training center in Mapinga, according to a press release by the PLA Central Theater Command on Sunday.

With a focus on counter-terrorism and counter-piracy nature of the joint exercises, Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military expert, told the Global Times that the drills are of pragmatic significance in Africa where terrorist and pirate attacks occur frequently.

The joint drills will help African countries enhance their counter-terrorism and counter-piracy capabilities, which is conducive to peace and stability in the region, Zhang said.

Zhang also pointed out that this is the first time China had held joint exercises with African countries which included navy and army participation at the same time. This will also boost the PLA's own interoperability among different military services and branches as well as different theater commands, he said.

Another Chinese military expert who requested anonymity told the Global Times on Tuesday that the Peace Unity-2024 features long-distance traveling, three participating countries, multiple services, branches and theater commands, realistic training courses and significant scale.

Such complexity reflects that the pragmatic military cooperation among China and African countries has reached a new level, the expert said.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
By Nicole Jao

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Oil prices gained more than 2% on Wednesday, bouncing back from multi-month lows, after data showed a bigger-than-expected draw in U.S. crude stockpiles, even as worries about weak oil demand in China persisted.

Brent crude futures settled up $1.85, or 2.42%, at $78.33 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $2.03, or 2.77%, to $75.23.

U.S. crude stocks fell for a sixth week in a row, dropping by 3.7 million barrels to 429.3 million barrels last week, government data showed, more than analysts' expectations in a Reuters poll for a 700,000-barrel draw.

"The story here really is that demand is stronger than people thought and overall supplies are tighter," said Phil Flynn, an analyst at Price Futures Group. "Crude supply is below average for this time of year."

Industry data from the American Petroleum Institute on Tuesday had shown an unexpected build in crude and gasoline inventories.

On Monday, Brent slumped to its lowest since early January and WTI touched its lowest since February, as a global stock market rout deepened on concerns about a potential recession in the U.S. after weak jobs data.

Both oil benchmarks broke a three-session declining streak on Tuesday.

"The recovery we have gotten from the large downturn on Monday shows it was a very short-lived temper tantrum and not a market crash," said Tim Snyder, chief economist at Matador Economics.

Lower production at Libya's 300,000 barrel-per-day (bpd) Sharara oilfield is also adding to concerns about supply shortages.

Libya's National Oil Corp declared force majeure in its Sharara oilfield from Aug. 7, the company said on Wednesday. NOC had said on Tuesday it would start to gradually decrease production at the field due to protests.

Tensions in the Middle East continued to stoke supply concerns.

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, with concern rising that the conflict in Gaza is turning into a wider Middle East war.

Iran-aligned Houthi militants on Wednesday targeted a container ship in the Red Sea and two U.S. destroyers in the adjacent Gulf of Aden. Attacks on vessels passing through the region have forced tankers to choose longer alternate routes.

"Any escalation of the conflict in the Middle East could see a greater risk of disruptions to supplies from the region," ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes said.

Supporting the bearish demand view, Chinese trade data showed that July daily crude oil imports fell to the lowest level since September 2022. China is the world's largest crude importer.

(Reporting by Nicole Jao in New York; Additional reporting by Paul Carsten and Ahmad Ghaddar in London and Colleen Howe in Beijing; Editing by Mark Potter, Marguerita Choy, Rod Nickel and Jonathan Oatis)
What to know about West Nile virus in Wisconsin

With the first reports this year of West Nile virus in Wisconsin coming out this week, health experts are warning the first human cases may not be far behind.

On Monday, Wisconsin DHS announced that a dead bird from Chippewa County and the blood screening of a blood donor from Washington County had both tested positive for West Nile.

These positive tests confirm mosquitoes in Wisconsin are carrying the West Nile virus, according to DHS. The reports come after mosquito season is in full swing in Wisconsin amid a rainy, humid summer.

Here's what to know about West Nile virus in Wisconsin and how to best protect yourself.

What is West Nile Virus?

West Nile virus is the leading mosquito-borne illness in the U.S. and usually spreads during the peak mosquito season, which is from summer to early fall.

Mosquitos pick up the virus from infected birds, and humans can contract the virus if bitten by an infected mosquito. Humans cannot pass the virus to each other, except in a few rare cases: through blood transfusions or organ transplants if the donor is infected, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery or breastfeeding.

Late summer and fall are prime times for disease-carrying mosquitoes, so experts recommend people take precautions for themselves and their pets and livestock. Mosquitoes can transmit a variety of illnesses to people and animals, including West Nile virus.

Symptoms of West Nile virus

About 80% of people who contact West Nile will not develop any symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The remaining 20%, or about one in five people, may develop symptoms including a fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Most people with symptoms will recover completely, but general fatigue and weakness can last for a few weeks or even months.

About 1 in 150 infected people develop more severe illness that debilitates the central nervous system. Severe symptoms include high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, convulsions, vision loss and paralysis. People older than 60 or people with pre-existing medical conditions  like cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and hypertension  are at greater risk of developing serious infections.

Are there any West Nile cases in Wisconsin?

Though a blood sample tested positive for the virus, DHS said the donor did not exhibit any West Nile symptoms, so the positive activity is not considered a case. As of Aug. 6, there are no human cases of West Nile in Wisconsin.

In 2023, Wisconsin saw 25 confirmed and probable cases of the virus  up from the annual average of 16 cases annually since 2014, according to DHS.

West Nile virus human case counts in U.S. states as of August 6.

So far this year, 26 states have reported human cases, according to the CDC. As of Aug. 6, the nationwide case count has totaled 103 infections, with 68 of them being more severe, neuro-invasive cases.

Texas is seeing the worst outbreak with 18 cases so far. Michigan, Minnesota and Illinois, which all border Wisconsin, have each reported one human case.

Is West Nile virus preventable?

There are no vaccines to prevent West Nile virus, but you can avoid contracting the virus by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites. Here are a few simple, low-cost ways to protect yourself from mosquitoes:

Avoid mosquito breeding sites. A map of the sites can be found on the DHS website.

Avoid having standing water around your home. Buckets of water should be emptied out and bird bath water should be kept clean to avoid creating spaces for mosquitoes to lay eggs.

Use insect repellent. Products with DEET, a key ingredient in many repellents, will be especially effective; but if you're looking for a plant-based option, repellents with lemon eucalyptus are also proven to work.

Wear long sleeves and pants outside, especially during peak mosquito hours around sunset.

If you're sitting outside, use an outdoor fan to disturb and deter mosquitoes' flight.

Jolan Kruse contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: West Nile virus in Wisconsin: cases, symptoms, prevention
Knoxville city leaders have settled on a new way to hold city elections  a move forced by state legislators who passed a law making the city's system illegal  and all voters will get their say Nov. 5.

Knoxville City Council members created a system that gets around the new law. The process they settled on gives every voter a say on every council member in every primary and general election. It's a tweak to the existing system that council members say now follows the law.

Essentially, a candidate must live in a specific district, but they campaign for votes from everyone. All districts would be up for election at the same time, and district names would change to reflect their geographical locations.

The next step is a referendum on the Nov. 5 presidential election ballot, which will be worded like this:

Shall Article IV, Sections 401, and 402, and Article VII, Sections 704 and 707 of the charter of the city of Knoxville be amended to elect six regional at-large councilmembers using regional residency as a qualification for regional candidates and three citywide at-large councilmembers and setting a process for primary and regular elections of council members consistent with Public Chapter 391, Acts of 2023. If more than one candidate receives the highest number of votes in the primary election, then only those candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be placed on the regular election ballot. If proceeding the regular election and only one candidate receives the second highest number of votes in the primary election, then the candidate receiving the highest number of votes and those candidates receiving the second highest number of votes shall be placed on the regular election ballot all as more fully set forth in ordinance No. __ of the city of Knoxville as duly published?

If referendum voters like the change, that system will be adopted. If they don't, the city is left with the default method set by the legislature: Only voters in each district can vote on their own representatives in all elections, with the exception of three at-large seats elected by all voters.

The current election system, which started in 1969, has drawn criticism over its potential to block people of color from getting into office because all Knoxvillians vote for all district representatives, no matter where they live.

Opponents of the new system suggested by the council worry it would incentivize a political party to put up a slate of candidates in a nonpartisan election. Others worry minority voters will have even less of a say. Council member Amelia Parker said the new system could be in conflict with the Voting Rights Act, which prevents the denial of voting rights to a citizen based on race.

"One repeated thing that has come up, are the problem of these at-large districts," said Parker, who worked for the national Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. "Numerous cities found their system shot down by a court of law because of the makeup of their city."

Parker was the only council member to vote against the new system Aug. 6.

Supporters said they want all council members to be accountable to every resident rather than just members of their districts. They also say the reverse could be true about the power of voters of color: Everyone gets a say in everyone who's elected.

"The sole purpose of this charter amendment is to preserve the right for every Knoxville voter to vote on all nine members of their city council," council member Andrew Roberto said.

Cliff Rodgers, a former Knox County elections administrator, reminded council members their role is to figure out what voters want, not to endorse one single option.

"Your role tonight is simply one of a gatekeeper," he said. "We did not decide the underlying issues. The voters did. That's all that's being asked of you tonight: are these proposed amendments ballot-worthy?"

Who would get on the ballot in the new system?

Under the proposed system, two top candidates in a primary move on to the general election.

If two candidates tie for first place, they both would move on to the general. If two candidates tie for second place, those candidates and the first place candidate would move on to the general.

What will be on the ballot Nov. 5?

In addition to the main voting system question, voters will be asked if they want to align the 5th District elections with other city council districts. Currently, Districts 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 have elections at the same time, while District 5 is lumped in with the three at-large seats, mayor and municipal judge.

Ballots will say:

Shall Article IV, Section 404 of the charter of the city of Knoxville, entitled same  terms of office (of council members) be amended to align the Fifth Council District with the other district council members by serving a two-year term beginning on Dec. 18, 2027, and ending on Dec. 15, 2029, and thereafter serve for four-year terms, all as more fully set forth in ordinance No. __ of the city of Knoxville as duly published?

When can voters learn about their options?

Voters have until Nov. 5 to determine whether they support the council's plan or want the default choice.

In a July letter in support of the ballot referendum, the NAACP Knoxville branch committed to hosting informational sessions. It's not clear when and where those will be held.

What are some pros and cons of each system?

Several local government experts discussed with Knox News the pros and cons of each system. Here's what they had to say:

Pro of at-large representation:

Citywide representation could lead to more cohesion.

Pro of district representation:

It's possible people of color could have a better chance of serving on the council if they're elected by the neighborhood voters who know them best.

Cons of at-large representation:

Nonpartisan elections could essentially become partisan ones because a party could market a unified slate of candidates.

Elections could become less issue-focused and more candidate-focused.

The cost of running a citywide election could deter some candidates.

The state could come back and mount a legal challenge for this workaround.

Why is all of this happening now?

The sudden need for change comes from outside the city.

State Rep. Elaine Davis, a Republican who represents Knox County but has no constituents in Knoxville, sponsored successful legislation in 2023 that outlaws the current system.

Knoxville must put any charter amendments in front of voters on a ballot only in even-numbered years like this one. So they're working quickly to get it on the Nov. 5 ballot.

Knoxville's next city election is in August 2025.

Do other cities have at-large representation?

Fifteen other Tennessee cities use the proposed new election system, according to the Municipal Technical Advisory Service. Out of those, the one with the largest population is Spring Hill, which according to the U.S. Census Bureau had 55,800 residents in 2022. Knoxville in 2022 had 195,889.

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 voters will have a say in city council elections Nov. 5
WHO 13 NEWS  Its a follow-up to the story we first told you about when Today in Iowa was Live on Location in Knoxville.

Riley Reids FFA project involved showing a goat named Wish and raising money for Make-A-Wish Iowa. Where Wish ended up will continue to make an impact.

Reid spent her summer break working hard and taking care of Wish, a goat that followed her to the Marion County Fair and helped her raise more than $5,000 for Make-A-Wish Iowa.

So its happy to still see me paying it forward to other children, but through goats now, Reid said, and still seeing like everyone support you and helping you pay it forward 13 years later after you got your wish.

In his final year, National Night Out remains priority for DMPD Chief Wingert

Thirteen years ago, Make-A-Wish granted the Reid family a trip to Disney, a wish that came after doctors found a blood clot on Rileys liver when she was a baby.

For like four years there when this first happened, she wasnt allowed to be a kid, Beverly Reid, Rileys mom, said. She was in the hospital so much and having surgery so much and that was our wish so that she could just be a kid, just be a normal kid. And thats what Make-A-Wish kind of did It just allowed us as a family to make memories and kind of put her medical issues on the back burner for one week. It just gave us a break and it gave us hope.

Hope that a farm in Ames strives to give families too.

Because hope is something that we all crave, but it is work, Gina Perkins, co-founder of Cultivating Hope Farms, said. It is not something that just comes, and thats why you use the word cultivating because it is something you work together on.

Cultivating Hope Farms is an inclusive care farm designed for people with disabilities.

Last summer, WHO 13 News showed you how the different experiences at the farm provide an opportunity to learn by working with animals.

Leading them, caring for them, feeding them, those kinds of things build in a value for the kiddos to see what that investment results in, Perkins explained. And then from there they build those social skills and other social navigation skills so very naturally.

A natural place for a goat to teach and live.

So we were looking at places that were like Make-A-Wish so he could see a lot of kids daily, Riley explained.

Riley and her mom came across Cultivating Hope Farms in their search for Wishs new home, so they gave Gina Perkins a call.

Wow, this is so much bigger than just Riley and a phone call and a goat and a farm and us, Perkins said. And here it all is becoming a full circle story that wont stop here.

The full circle starts at Suzies Roundup.

Because she was always rounding up friends wherever she went, Perkins explained.

Named after Perkins niece, Suzie, who beat the odds when doctors told her family she wouldnt survive.

But then they got a second opinion at Iowa City and it saved her life, Sammie Moorman, Suzies sister, explained.  Put the shunt in and it saved her life. So, she grew up a complete miracle.

A miracle that inspired this care farm to be created and her legacy to live on. Suzie passed away in 2020 at the age of 16, but its worth mentioning she was a Make-A-Wish recipient too.

As 16-year-old Riley Reid now gives her second Wish away, she hopes it will help this farm and family continue their mission of support, acceptance, and hope.

Lets live this life together so that we can do big things together, Perkins 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 who13.com.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE)  Knoxville voters will have the chance to decide on an overhaul to city elections after a vote Tuesday by city council members. The changes come in the form of two ordinances approved on second reading Tuesday night that city voters will approve or reject when they go to the polls in November.

Most noticeable of the changes, a referendum that if approved would let voters cast ballots in primary and general elections for all city council seats. At the moment, primary races are held only within a given council district. Then, all voters city-wide get cast ballots in the general.

Knoxvilles hand was forced to alter the status quo when the Tennessee General Assembly passed a law last year that makes the district-primary, citywide-general system impossible.

Knoxville Area Urban League CEO steps down

Complying with the law means choosing either an all-district system for both primary and general elections plus the three existing at-large seats or a broader change as proposed by council member Andrew Roberto. His version of the reworking would, in essence, make all council seats at-large. But council members would still be required to live in the district they represent. Council members chose that option as the one to send to voters.

Local NAACP chapter president Rev. Sam Brown spoke Tuesday night in favor of the all-at-large arrangement. Brown questions the motives of state lawmakers bringing about the overhaul and argues that the city now has an opportunity to choose a more preferable.

Brown said Tuesday: Please, city council, put this to the voters in Knoxville so we will have the right to choose on how we would like to be governed locally.

Larry Dearing of Fountain City Town Hall told council he worried about the chance for backroom dealing if citizens were confined to voting for or against only the member representing their own district and the at-large council members. Dearing offered up a hypothetical scenario in which, as he put it, With five members of city council answering only to their own district, somebody could sneak in, work with the boys in the back room and get something absolutely horrible passed. Those who voted for that thing would not be answerable to the every body in the city. So, something that might be harmful to my district could be passed with votes of the other four districts council members and one at-large.

Opposing voices were also heard at Tuesday nights meeting. Bentley Marlowe argued that Knoxville voters only have the opportunity to vote for one representative to the Tennessee House and one U.S. congressman.

Marlowe asserted, nobody seems to feel like theyre not being heard. Nobody is screaming in outrage there. Theres 435 members of congress. You only get to vote for one. But nobody thinks theyre not being heard. No, you form a relationship with the representative that lives in your community.

Nick Ciparro, who ran unsuccessfully for council District 3 also pushed back against the all-at-large concept. Ciparro noted that he won the district level primary but went on to lose the overall city general election by a narrow margin. Ciparro speculated that his race prompted State Representative Elaine Davis to sponsor the change which would go on to become state law and bring about the need to change Knoxville elections.

At Tuesday nights meeting Ciparro argued that voters who supported his campaign did not understand the role of the existing structure in deciding the outcome. And he offered a counter-argument to worries over diversity representation on a council which he claims has an overwhelming democratic makeup, asserting: Diversity by political, it doesnt exist. And meanwhile, my district is an overwhelmingly republican district.

Members voted 8-1 in favor of putting the at-large for all system before the voters in November.

Another referendum would realign 5th district council elections to coincide with those in the rest of the city. It too passed on second reading Tuesday night and will now also go for a public vote.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Russian propagandists and milbloggers are claiming that Ukrainian forces, which are said to have entered Russia's Kursk Oblast on the night of 5-6 August, have secured a foothold in the border area. Ukraine has not yet commented on the events in Kursk Oblast.

Source: Meduza, a Latvia-based Russian media outlet; Russia's Defence Ministry; Russian propagandists on social media

Details: Telegram channels affiliated with Russia's Defence Ministry have claimed that Ukrainian forces have captured the villages of Nikolaevo-Darino, Sverdlikovo and Darino in the Sudzha district of Kursk Oblast (Darino is the furthest from the Ukrainian border  4 km away).

Ukrainian forces are also said to have attempted to take control of the Rylsk-Sudzha road.

The propagandists claim that Ukrainian troops have advanced towards Goncharovka, a western suburb of Sudzha 8 km from the border, where according to unconfirmed reports fighting is taking place. There are also reports of fighting in the border village of Oleshnya.

Other reports indicate that Ukrainian troops are present in the settlements of Darino, Sverdlikovo, Gogolevka and Goncharovka, and that Ukrainian defenders have taken control of Russian strong points in Oleshnya.

In addition, Ukrainian soldiers are supposedly conducting remote mining of the Sudzha-Belitsa road.

Milbloggers claim that the front in Russias Kursk Oblast is 10-11 km wide and that Ukrainian forces have advanced 10 km west of Sudzha on a narrow line. The Telegram channel Dva Mayora (Two Majors) reports that Ukrainian soldiers "cannot be driven out of the occupied territory" and that the town of Sudzha has been "effectively evacuated".

Various propagandists have claimed that one or two battalions of Ukrainian forces have entered Kursk Oblast.

Russia's Defence Ministry issued a statement on 7 August regarding the situation in Kursk Oblast.

The Russian ministry claimed that the advance of Ukrainian forces deep into Russian territory had been prevented: "Its [Ukrainian  ed.] reserves have been defeated near Basivka, Zhuravka, Yunakivka, Bilovody, Kyianytsia, Korchakolivka, Nova Sich, Pavlivka and Horodyshche in [Ukraine's] Sumy Oblast".

On 7 August, Alexei Smirnov, the acting Governor of Kursk Oblast, said he had briefed Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin that night about the supposed drone and missile attack on the Russian region, adding that people were being evacuated from the border areas.

Background:

On the morning of 6 August, Smirnov claimed that Ukrainian forces had mounted an attempt to infiltrate the Sudzha and Korenevo districts of Kursk Oblast. "FSB border troops and Russian army soldiers prevented the border from being breached," he added, asking residents to "remain alert".

On the morning of 6 August, local Russian Telegram channels started spreading reports of fighting in the border area of Kursk Oblast. They claimed that Ukrainian forces were advancing to Goncharovka in the Sudzha district with their equipment.

However, the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion (FRL)  volunteer groups consisting of Russians fighting on Ukraine's side  have not reported carrying out any operations in the border area with Russia.

The Russian Ministry of Defence said Russian reserves were moving to the state border with Ukraine in Kursk Oblast.

The military analysis project DeepState has released photos of likely destroyed Russian equipment in Kursk Oblast.

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A Ukrainian official on Aug. 6 denied that Russia fully captured the village of Niu-York in Donetsk Oblast, saying that "heavy fighting continues" there.

The front-line settlement of Niu-York lies just south of Toretsk, a town that has become one of the focal points of the Russian offensive in Donetsk Oblast.

Russian forces appear to have established a presence in the village. Earlier on Aug. 6, footage of what appears to be a soldier raising a Russian flag on top of a building in Niu-York emerged on social media.

The Ukrainian DeepState monitoring service geolocated the building as the Boarding School Number 38, located in the northwestern part of the village. The channel presented it as a signal of a "deteriorating tactical situation in the settlement and its loss in the near future."

A map of Russian advances in Niu-York in Donetsk Oblast as of Aug. 7, 2024, as presented by the crowd-sourced Ukrainian monitoring service DeepState.

Russian propagandist Vladimir Solovyov claimed the flag's footage as evidence that Niu-York fell to Russian hands. This was promptly denied by Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the counter-disinformation department at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council.

"As of now, Niu-York has not been taken by Russia. Heavy fighting continues there," Kovalenko said on Telegram.

DeepState's map points to steady Russian advances in the village but indicates certain parts are still held by Ukraine.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify all the claims.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) think-tank said on Aug. 5 that Russia had made "significant tactical advances in the Toretsk direction," pointing to geolocated footage of Russian forces in Druzhba east of Toretsk.

Russia also continues to press against other Donetsk Oblast towns, namely Chasiv Yar and Pokrovsk.

Read also: Eye of the storm: A day in the life of Ukrainian infantry on the zero line near Toretsk

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Mitrice Richardson vanished 15 years ago in Malibu. L.A. County has a new reward in her case

Kim Howard places a photo of Mitrice Richardson at the Lost Hills Sheriff Station in Calabasas for a memorial and news conference on the 10th anniversary of her disappearance in 2019. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors reestablished a $20,000 reward Tuesday for information regarding the disappearance of Mitrice Richardson, a 24-year-old woman who disappeared in 2009 after she was released from a Malibu sheriff's station in the middle of the night and was found dead a year later.

The episode began when Richardson failed to pay an $89 tab at the restaurant Geoffrey's in Malibu. The Sheriff's Department was called and Richardson was arrested and taken to the Lost Hills/Malibu Sheriff's Station.

She was released from custody early in the morning Sept. 17, 2009, without her car. She also did not have her purse or cellphone on her. She was never seen again.

"My hopes are that for the people who live in that community ... maybe theyll find it in their heart to remember something and bring closure to the family," said Michael Richardson, Richardson's father.

Richardson's mysterious disappearance, which lasted nearly a year, ended in August 2010 when her skeletal remains were discovered in Malibu Canyon. While her death has not been ruled a homicide, her family has insisted in the past that she was a victim of foul play.

Her family pinned blame on the Sheriff's Department for releasing Richardson into the night despite the fact that she was suffering from a mental health episode, they said.

She had acted bizarrely at the restaurant before her arrest and LAPD investigators subsequently determined that she had probably been suffering from severe bipolar disorder.

One friend said that in the weeks before she disappeared, Richardson had been going around saying she knew Michael Jackson, who was dead, and that she was going to Mars.

When she was at Geoffrey's restaurant, she also spoke about being from Mars.

Despite her erratic behavior, the sheriff's deputies at the station had "no legal justification to deprive her of her freedom," according to a report by the Office of Independent Review.

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.
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. (Photo by Stephen Zenner/Getty Images)

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. (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.

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.

Stateline originally published this article. Like the Alaska Beacon, 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.
The toes of a baby peek out of a blanket at a hospital in McAllen, Texas. Native American babies have high rates of sudden unexpected infant deaths, and tribal members and health experts say a patchwork system of collecting information hinders strategies for preventing more deaths. (Photo by Eric Gay/The Associated Press) (This image cannot be republished unless you have an AP subscription.)

When Jessica Whitehawk helped start a womens health support center over a decade ago, her team worked out of a tiny room in the back of a nonprofit office on the Yakama Nation Reservation in Washington state.

Pregnant women traveled to that room from the farthest reaches of the 1.3 million-acre reservation because they had nowhere else to go for health care or prenatal advice, Whitehawk said.

Many tribal communities have a similar lack of resources, which contributes to American Indian and Alaska Native infants being twice as likely as non-Hispanic white babies to die before their first birthday.

A recent study suggests another reason for the high infant mortality rate among Native babies: the way that law enforcement authorities investigate possible cases of sudden unexpected infant deaths, known as SUIDs, in tribal communities. Researchers found that compared with other racial groups, American Indian and Alaska Native SUIDs were most likely to result in police investigations, which were often incomplete, as opposed to the more thorough investigations conducted by medical examiners or coroners forensic staff.

As a result, experts say, less is known about those cases, and so less can be done to help prevent future infant deaths in tribal communities that might have scant access to prenatal care or whose cultural practices call for sensitivity.

Medical examiners are pathologist physicians who are trained to explore all causes of death, while law enforcement agencies are trained to explore criminal circumstances. Rural Native communities often dont have medical examiners, and they frequently have strained relationships with police.

Pathologist Dr. Nicole Jackson, the former associate medical examiner for King County, Washington, said that during her training in New Mexico, she saw many tribal infant deaths. Police, often tribal law enforcement agencies, were frequently the ones leading those investigations, she said.

The medical, legal death investigation system in America is just so understaffed and underfunded, said Jackson, now an assistant professor at the University of Washington and director of Autopsy and After Death Services at the UW Medical Center.

If it was better staffed and better funded, we would not have to rely on law enforcement in certain regions conducting these delicate investigations, she said.

The authors of the recent SUIDs study looked at more than 3,800 cases between 2015 and 2018. They categorized investigations as incomplete if there was no autopsy or no investigation of the scene, or if details were missing on where and how the body was found.

That lack of data can hamper prevention efforts.

In many of the incomplete cases, for example, investigators didnt ask the caregivers to use baby dolls to show the position in which they found the deceased infant  even though that exercise is recommended by experts including the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Association of Medical Examiners.

These doll reenactments help investigators determine whether unsafe conditions or sleep practices might have led to suffocation.

Sometimes, for example, babies could be sleeping in poor housing situations. Abigail Echo-Hawk, executive vice president at the Seattle Indian Health Board and director of the Urban Indian Health Institute, recalled one babys death on a high-poverty reservation with a shortage of housing. The babys family members all slept on the floor in a single room.

She added that because the reenactments can be so traumatizing, its critical for investigators to be culturally sensitive. Additionally, untrained investigators may misinterpret a familys culture: For example, some tribes refrain from speaking the name of the baby for a year after the death.

Our public health data system collects the lowest quality information on the groups that have the worst health outcomes, when those are the groups we should be collecting the most information about, said Naomi Harada Thyden, a public health research scientist at the University of Minnesota and the lead author of the study, which was published this spring in the Journal of Public Health Management & Practice.

Whitehawk, who is a member of the Winnebago and Santee Tribes of Nebraska, said those disparities led her and co-founders to launch the Ttawaxt Birth Justice Center 12 years ago. The center now operates a clinic that offers reproductive health care, lactation education and support groups that center tribal traditions. The team plans to eventually launch a birthing facility.

Whitehawk tied the high infant mortality rates to structural racism and a lack of investment in tribal communities.

Two hundred years of systemic racism and systemic violence against women and children  dont we think that might have an impact on why [our] infants are dying all across the nation?

Strained relationships

Janelle Palacios is an attending nurse-midwife and an associate professor at Montana State University who studies parenthood in tribal communities. As a mother herself, she saw firsthand how incomplete data collection can skew public health statistics.

Palacios is Salish and Kootenai, but when her last two children were born in California, she had to insist that Native American be added to their birth certificates, as their race had only been recorded as Hispanic.

Palacios said medical examiners should lead SUIDs investigations, because the relationships between tribal communities and local law enforcement agencies often are strained. As a result, many Native families are reluctant to share information with police, she said.

Tribal communities have a long memory, Palacios said, referring to the history of the U.S. government removing Native children from homes and placing them in boarding schools, often with deadly outcomes, along with Native childrens current disproportionate representation in foster care.

We have this tension over land and resources, tension over people, tension over the children, Palacios said.

Dr. Reade Quinton, a Minnesota medical examiner and vice president of the National Association of Medical Examiners, likewise said that many of these communities are distrustful of law enforcement, and understandably so.

Quinton said Native parents might wonder, when investigators ask routine questions about a cause of death, Are you really trying to answer that question, or are you trying to blame me for something?

Cultural competence

In Wyomings Fremont County, coroner Erin Ivie has handled death investigations at the neighboring Wind River Reservation for two decades. Ivie said her staff members, who are not Indigenous, have taken training courses for cultural sensitivity. Her office also returns to a family months later and asks how they felt about the interactions to make sure the questioning is done in an appropriate manner.

She added that her office works in tandem with law enforcement agencies on investigations.

We treat every case as a homicide until we can rule it otherwise, Ivie said. Were not leaving any question or stone unturned, and consulting with both our forensic pathologist and the childs primary care provider.

That approach, of treating each case as a homicide from the start, can affect how the investigation is conducted, said Jackson, the University of Washington assistant professor.

We never want to miss a homicide, she said. But a more holistic approach, with social workers and trained medical examiner staff, can better connect with families during that very delicate time, because as we know, most of these arent homicides.

Jackson said her job of studying unexpected deaths is ultimately to serve the living.

A life is lost, but hopefully, collectively, we can study and learn some things, feed public health systems to improve lives, she said.

At Ttawaxt, breaking down barriers to help parents and babies is a core mission. In interviews with new mothers and families, Whitehawks team found that families were less likely to lose their babies if there are elders living in the household. Infant health, she said, is a marker of the health of a community.

The advocacy, the education, the quality care, the caring around mothers and children, it changes the narrative of the whole entire community, Whitehawk said. We center building community around birth  the birth of a child or bringing new life into the world.

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HONOLULU (KHON2)  It will take many years for Lahaina to rebuild after the wildfires ravaged the historic town. While many chose to stay, others chose to leave for a chance at a fresh start.

Motley Adovas and Danielle Soriano are chefs and co-owners of Merienda, a Filipino fusion food truck they recently opened in Pearl City.

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Cooking in general is helping me move forward, Adovas explained. Im seeing a brighter future, and I love cooking.

Recapturing that joy and hope hasnt been easy after losing almost everything they own.

Both Adovas and Sorianos homes were burned to the ground in the Lahaina wildfires in August 2023.

How, where to get your free SPAM musubi across the U.S. and Hawaii

It happened so fast that we only had a matter of time to take some of our important documents and two of our cars, Adovas explained. It was probably the scariest thing that had happened in my entire life.

The weeks following the blaze were surreal.

Everything was just so crazy, and we didnt know what to do, Adovas said.

The pain and emotion of it all still so raw.

It was very traumatic, Soriano added and her eyes welled-up with tears.

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Their food truck Merienda Maui survived the fire, but they needed to focus on getting back on their feet.

The first thing we thought about first is where were going to stay. Soriano said.

Access to the Impact Zone: Lahainas journey of resilience and recovery

After three weeks of cramming into hotel rooms, and no sign of things getting better, Adovas knew something had to give.

I got to get out of here. I got to get out of here and take care of my family first, he said.

So, he convinced his family to move to Oahu.

Lets just move out for now get a breather, get a fresh start, he explained. Its going to be tough for everyone, but I feel like it was for the better.

Soriano also decided to come. And they recently found a new home for Merienda in Honolulu.

We feel the love and support from the community in Oahu, Soriano said. Its a long way to go but I think its a good start.

Na Lei Aloha dinner show makes way to Waikiki

For Adovas, reopening Merienda has given him a renewed lease on life.

Cooking for me is comforting, he explained. It gives me like a warm hug after a long day. The food that I create, the food that my family creates it brings you comfort.

That is something he is eager to share.

He said Maui will always be his home and he hopes to one day return, but for now, he said he is where he needs to be.

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Merienda is located in the parking lot at Pearl Ridge Center by the old Sears. They are open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 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 KHON2.
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  Gov. Lamont is getting ready to change the rules for cell phone use in schools.

Connecticut Awards for phone-free schools? Sen. Murphy is pushing for it

Some local schools have already launched pilot programs, such as putting students phones in pouches during the school day, in order to cut down on classroom distractions. Lamont mentioned that he supports phone-free school policies in his state of the state address earlier this year.

His administration is reportedly getting ready to roll out a new policy, and are working with the state Department of Education to get those policies up and running soon.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Language access is a top concern for Asian communities. What AAPI leaders say can be done

There are more than 200 languages spoken at home in California. But those with the largest proportion of speakers who dont speak English very well are all Asian languages: Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, Khmer, and Thai or Lao.

These language barriers present challenges for Asian communities when it comes to accessing health care, advocates and public officials discussed at a Tuesday roundtable in Sacramento.

The Asian American and Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander health equity roundtable included representatives from the state AAPI Caucus and Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs, as well as federal and state agencies and community-based organizations based throughout California.

I think we really need to take a hard look and say, Hey, what, where exactly are the pain spots? And what can we really do to specifically change things up administratively in the state to be much more inclusive to folks who dont speak English? Assemblyman Phil Ting said.

In 2022, the proportion of California residents who have never had a routine medical checkup was about twice as large for those who do not speak English very well, UCLA Center for Health Policy Research Director Ninez Ponce noted.

The state (has) a vision for improving language access, so we are asking that the state really makes sure that vision is realized, said Julia Liou, CEO of Asian Health Services, a healthcare provider that co-hosted the roundtable.

Sen. Dave Min, D-Irvine, who authored a bill to establish an Office of Language Access within the California Health and Human Services Agency, also spoke during the forum about the importance of expanded language access. The bill, Senate Bill 1078, would require the development of language access plans within each department of CalHHS.

Regarding the costs of increasing language access infrastructure, Center for Asian Americans in Action Director Priscilla Huang emphasized the costs of neglecting to improve such access  medical errors, rehospitalizations and corrective measures.

CalHHS officials noted that language access is now a key pillar at CalHHS, which adopted its first comprehensive language policy in May 2023.

Federal officials from the White House and the Department of Health and Human Services also spoke about the current language access landscape and federal policies to expand language access.

Ive heard this time and time again: Some large health care system is relying on a community-based organization to do the translation services, said Melanie Rainer, director of the Office for Civil Rights at HHS, during the panel. They cant just rely on the kindness of their local CBO.

For example, Rainer said, if a state agency receives federal healthcare funds, it is required to translate written notices and taglines into the top 15 languages and provide meaningful access to health services for individuals who may not be proficient in English.

Ting said the next step is for community-based organizations to come to the state with specific recommendations about administrative or policy changes.

Asian Health Services, in conjunction with the AAPI Caucus and CAPIAA, will be hosting a policy summit in Sacramento on Sept. 18 to discuss such strategies.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A Las Vegas man faces several charges after police said he fired shots that impacted a downtown casino during a fight between a large group of people, according to an arrest report obtained by 8 News Now.

The shooting took place on Saturday, Aug. 3 shortly before 5 a.m. near Fremont Street and Casino Center Boulevard.

Daniel Porter, 42, faces several charges including two counts of assault with a deadly weapon, discharging a firearm into an occupied structure, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, owning or possessing a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a controlled substance.

Las Vegas Metropolitan police said they responded to the downtown area near Fremont Street after reports of a shooting. When officers arrived they were directed to a man nearby who identified himself as Daniel Porter. While conducting a pat down they found a 9mm gun in his possession, according to police.

After looking through surveillance video in the area police identified Porter in the video and saw what appeared to be a large group of approximately 30 people fighting, the video also showed people begin to run north on Casino Center Boulevard, Porter was seen in the video pulling out a gun and firing four rounds in the direction of the people running, according to a police arrest report.

Daniel Porter, 42, faces several charges including two counts of assault with a deadly weapon, discharging a firearm into an occupied structure, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit, own/possess firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a controlled substance. (LVMPD)

During the investigation, police said they located several people who witnessed the shooting and surveillance video near Four Queens and Binions that showed another angle of the incident.

Officers also located four spent 9mm cartridge casings. One of the the casings was found near the Fremont Hotel the other three were found near Casino Center Boulevard and Fremont Street. Officers also said they found a bullet that had been compressed and deformed in the road. Police also saw a broken ceiling tile to the canopy of Binions Casino and shards of glass, according to the arrest report.

While in the police interview room, police said Porter dropped a bag of white powdery substance which was later tested and confirmed by police to be cocaine. Police also located a powdery substance on Porter which tested positive for meth. Porter later told police during an interview that he snorts cocaine and meth and did so the day of the shooting, according to the report.

When detectives asked Porter if he wanted to apologize to Binions Casino he said that he did and wrote an apology letter to the casino for striking the building with gunfire.

Porter also told police he bought the gun for $100 one week prior to the shooting and liked to hang out downtown but did not like the people on Fremont Street from California and believed some of those individuals were involved in the fight before the shooting, according to the report.

In the report police also stated that Porter had several previous convictions including burglary, discharging a fire into an occupied structure, discharging a firearm out of a vehicle, assault, and attempted murder.

Porter was taken to the Clark County Detention Center and is expected in court on Aug. 21, according to online court records.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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The Latest: Harris and Walz kick off their 2024 election campaign

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz arrive at a campaign rally Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Romulus, Mich. (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson)

Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, looking to strengthen the Democratic ticket in Midwestern states.

After an introduction from Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, she and Walz made their joint debut at a rally Tuesday evening in Philadelphia, kicking off their battleground state tour. On Wednesday they were in Wisconsin and Michigan.

Follow the APs Election 2024 coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024.

Heres the Latest:

Harris calls on supporters to fight for it

Capping the biggest day yet of her presidential campaign, Kamala Harris reached a new crescendo with thousands of supporters in an airplane hangar outside Detroit Wednesday.

Michigan, ultimately in this election we each face a question. What kind of country do we want to live in? she said in a low voice.

Then she began to raise her voice, saying, The beauty of our democracy is we each have the power to answer that question.

So, in the next 90 days we need you to use your power, she said, asking rallygoers if they would knock on doors, register voters and mobilize neighborhoods.

She culminated in a full-throated entreaty: Are you ready to make your voices heard? Do we believe in freedom? Do we believe in opportunity? Do we believe in the promise of America?

And are we ready to fight for it? she roared. And when we fight, we win. God bless you. God bless you.

Gaza protesters interrupt Harris

People chanting about the war in Gaza attempted to interrupt Kamala Harris' campaign speech outside Detroit.

At first, Harris said to those trying to disrupt her, I am here because I believe in democracy and everybodys voice matters.

But I am speaking now, she said, sparking cheers from most of the audience.

The chants opposing the Israeli-Hamas war, which strikes at the heart of parts of suburban Detroit, such as Dearborn, continued until Harris tone changed.

If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that, she told them sternly. Otherwise, Im speaking.

It was then that the majority of the audience picked her up, chanting: Were not going back! Were not going back!

Walz says he's had an 'interesting 24 hours'

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz began his second stop on his first full day on the Democratic presidential campaign at a rally with Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris in an airplane hangar outside Detroit.

Walz took the stage before an audience of thousands, with a bow and clasped hands. We Minnesotans, were a stoic people, he said, smiling and laughing. But holy hell, can you throw a party here in Michigan.

Walz traveled Wednesday with Harris from Wisconsin, another upper Midwestern battleground state.

Walz is testing his message and style in the hopes of helping securing Midwestern votes in these states and Pennsylvania, a bloc viewed as pivotal to the November election.

Its been a pretty interesting 24 hours for me, I have to be honest, he said.

Biden warns about possible Trump reaction to election loss

President Joe Biden says he is not confident at all that there will be a peaceful transfer of power come January if Donald Trump loses the November election.

His comments, which were part of a CBS interview that took place Wednesday, echo his earlier warnings about Trump and democracy.

He means what he says, Biden said during the interview for CBS Sunday Morning. We dont take him seriously. He means it.

Biden added, You cant love your country only when you win.

The sit-down interview is Bidens first since he announced July 21 that he would end his reelection bid.

Take care of one another

Gov. Walz is known for speaking regularly about the importance of community. Only today, he did it before a crowd of thousands at the outdoor event he and Vice President Harris headlined in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

In the direct summer sun, a member of the crowd seemed to succumb to the heat.

We have someone down. They are treating him. Theyre getting him some water, and its good, Walz told the audience. Take care of your neighbors.

Advising others to take a drink, Walz told those attending to the audience member, Thank you all for helping.

Take care of one another, he went on to say more broadly.

This idea of caring for a neighbor, a kindness, a hand up when somebody needs it, he said. Thats who we are.

Harris homes in on freedom

Harris leaned into the theme of her campaign, freedom, elevating her voice in a new way as she becomes more comfortable delivering it.

Especially emphatic in the outdoor event in Eau Claire, Harris called for Freedom of who you love openly with pride.

But in particular, and with cheers rising up to meet her voice, Harris intoned robustly, Freedom of a woman to make decisions about her own body!

Do we believe in freedom? Do we believe in opportunity? Do we believe in America? Harris shouted in closing. And are we ready to fight for it?

Harris left the stage to the sounds of her new campaign anthem, Freedom, by Beyonce.

Harris shuts down chants of lock him up

Harris has during recent events tried to tamp down the chants of Lock him up. Lock him up, a mantra crowds have appropriated from similar chants that Trump campaign audiences in 2016 used in reference to Democrat Hillary Clinton.

Harris motioned with her hands in Philadelphia on Tuesday to avoid the chants.

Today, she had a new comeback for the group, as she referred to herself and Walz as joyful warriors.

When crowds chanted to put Trump in jail, she said, Hold on. Let the courts take care of that. Were going to beat him in November, igniting cheers.

Harris takes the stage in Eau Claire

Greeting in a high-five hand clasp with Tim Walz, Kamala Harris joined her new running mate at the outdoor rally in Eau Claire.

Give it up for Wisconsins own Bon Iver, she said, thanking the opening band, which was founded in the northwest Wisconsin city.

And asking for a round of applause for Biden, the crowd of thousands at the Eau Claire Event District began chanting, Thank you, Joe! Thank you, Joe!

The Vances take an ice creak break

JD Vance and his wife, Usha, stopped for a sweet treat as they left the battleground state of Wisconsin.

At Olson Ice Cream, they were greeted by dozens of cheering supporters, many of whom had blue Trump campaign signs.

Usha Vance got a scoop of Mackinac Island Fudge, her husband said, while JD Vance ordered Mocha Mud Pie.

I need a little caffeine, he joked, before winding his way through the crowd and signing several pieces of campaign material for fans.

Walz takes the stage in Eau Claire

Walz is taking the stage to Bruce Sringsteens Born to Run, at a campaign rally in his neighboring state of Wisconsin, and hes offering a bit of Midwestern kinship.

Hello, Eau Claire. Isnt it nice to have a candidate who can pronounce the name correctly? Walz said.

Walz is a former south central Minnesota U.S. House member and is appearing with Harris in the city of Eau Claire, which is a key target for the Democratic ticket and just a little more than 80 miles from his home in St. Paul.

President Joe Biden won the county by 11 percentage points  more than 6,000 votes  in 2020, carrying the entire state by fewer than 21,000 votes.

Walzs place on the ticket would seem to help boost support in other western Wisconsin counties, such as LaCrosse, another reliably Democratic county bordering Minnesota.

Its Friday night lights

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz stopped by the Harris campaign headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, and the mood was akin to a high school pep rally with chants of Lets go coach.

In a video posted by the campaign, Walz said, Were doing it. Its on, and, Its Friday night lights.

Walz was a high school teacher and was on the coaching staff for the football team before entering politics, with Mankato West High School winning a state championship in 1999. Many high schools play their varsity football games on Friday evenings, with the term Friday Night Lights referencing to a book about Texas football by the journalist Buzz Bissinger that became a movie and TV show.

Rally attendees say Harris message of rights is important for women and daughters

Chloe Longmire, who attended Wednesdays rally in Eau Claire said that she is encouraged and excited that Harris has the potential to be the first Black female president.

Shes trying to create a world where people all have their rights to their own decisions, their bodies, their choices. Womens rights, are definitely crucial, she told AP. Definitely something that I look for as a woman, as a woman who has a daughter, I want her to be able to have a right to her own body. We talk about it every day, all the time. And thats something thats central for me.

Andrea Lorenz noted that her teenage kids are now more interested than ever in the election.

I have two teenage kids, one, a daughter who all of a sudden wasnt excited about the election. And now. And now she is, she said, adding I love what, what shes talking about with education and abortion rights.

Wisconsin voter Dan Miller said he liked the tone and message of the Harris and Walz ticket.

I love Tim Walz saying, you know, yeah, were the monsters. You know, look at us. You know, we want. We want to feed children. We want to educate everybody. We want women to have a choice versus, you know, having the government make their choices for them, he said. Its the tone that they use. Its the messaging itself. Its just so much better. We love Joe. Joe has been an incredible president, but he just isnt the same messenger. And sometimes you need a better messenger. And thats Kamala.

Vance jokes about checking out Air Force Two

Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance said he had a bit of fun Wednesday trying to catch up with Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris as the pair used the same Wisconsin airport as part of competing campaign travel.

I just wanted to check out my future plane, he joked with reporters after walking off the Donald Trump campaign plane and walking straight over to Air Force Two, which had landed with vice president and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Vance used the stunt to jab Harris for not having conducted an extended interview or full press conference since she began her campaign July 21 after President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid.

I also wanted to go say hello to the vice president and ask her why Kamala Harris refuses, why does she refuse to answer questions from the media, Vance said. I dont think the vice president waved at me as she drove away.

Indie band Bon Iver headlines Harris and Walz campaign rally

Indie band Bon Iver was warming up an outdoor audience waiting for Kamala Harris to take the stage in Eau Claire, with The Battle Cry of Freedom.

Were all here for the right reasons, lead singer Justin Vernon, with the Eau Claire-based band, said before breaking into a slow, bluesy version of the Civil War-era anthem.

The band was opening on the grounds of Eau Claire Event District for Harris first appearance in swing state Wisconsin Wednesday with her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz, from nearby Minnesota.

Lets go! Vernon told the crowd of thousands before leaving the stage in anticipation of the appearance of the Democratic ticket.

Harris and Vance cross paths on the tarmac at Wisconsins Chippewa Valley Regional Airport

Eau Claire, Wisconsin, specifically Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, is the center of the political universe at the moment.

Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance both landed and were on the tarmac of the airport in the northwestern Wisconsin city, planning to hold separate campaign events scheduled for the same time in the afternoon.

Harris, who arrived in Air Force Two, disembarked and left for her event, where she was to speak with her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Vances aircraft could be seen taxiing as he prepared for his rally. Before leaving for his event, Vance walked over to get a closer look at Air Force Two, the aircraft he hopes to consider his main form of travel beginning in January.

Wisconsin is among the handful of states considered the most competitive, where Democratic President Joe Biden won by fewer than 21,000 votes in 2020.

Harris campaign has raised $36 million since Walz announcement

The Harris campaign is continuing a strong fundraising wave after the vice president picked Walz as her running mate.

The campaign said Wednesday that it has raised $36 million in the first 24 hours after the formal vice president candidate announcement.

The two VP candidates have something in common: A thirst for Diet Mountain Dew

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio have one thing in common besides being candidates for vice president  Diet Mountain Dew.

Walz doesnt drink coffee, but hes frequently spotted with a fluorescent green plastic bottle of his caffeinated beverage of choice.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan once tweeted a photo of him grabbing a cold one, saying, Hes Dewn it again! #dadjoke. He replied, Had to Dew it.Becoming Kamala Harris running mate doesnt appear likely to change Walzs habits. Minneapolis resident Scott Svare said he saw someone who appeared to be with Walzs security detail loading two bottles of Diet Mountain Dew into an SUV on Tuesday.

Vances love for the yellow soda spurred a jab from Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear when he was still in the mix to become Harris running mate.

Who drinks Diet Mountain Dew? Beshear asked rhetorically in a CNN interview, suggesting that Vance was inauthentically Appalachian.Earlier that week, Vance had said at a rally in Ohio that hed had a Diet Mountain Dew that day and added jokingly that he expected to be called a racist because of it. Beshear later apologized to the manufacturer  but not to Vance.Still, Beshear said he thought Kentuckians were more likely to turn to Ale-8-One as their soft drink of choice.

Vance says voters decide based on whos at the top of the ticket

Asked about Trumps comments that the VP pick doesnt dramatically affect voters moves, Vance said he believed voters make decisions based on the top of the ticket, but took an opportunity to go after his latest rival.

Vance said Wednesday in Michigan that Walz is a crazy radical and that picking him shows Harris bends the knee to the far left of the Democratic Party.

Sen. Ron Johnson says Wisconsin voters will reject Walz as being too liberal

Once Wisconsin voters learn more about Minnesota Gov. Tim Walzs record, they will reject him as being too liberal, Wisconsin Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson said Wednesday ahead of Walz making his first visit to the battleground state as Vice President Kamala Harris running mate.

Harris and Walz are scheduled to hold a rally in western Wisconsin, only about an hour east of the Minnesota border.

He is part of the radical, crazy left as is Vice President Harris, Johnson said on a news conference call. I dont think that appeals to Wisconsinites if the mainstream media actually reports on his position instead of something nobody is talking about: (Project) 2025.

Wisconsin Republican Party chair Brian Schimming said Harris picked Walz because shes worried about carrying Minnesota and wants to shore up Democratic support in the so-called blue wall states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania.

I actually think this pick hurts her in Wisconsin because of Gov. Walzs policies, Schimming said. A pick like Tim Walz is not one that expands the appeal of the ticket. Its extremely ideological.

Vance says he was welcomed in Michigan despite the fact that Im an Ohio State guy

Vance is using a stop at a Michigan police department to talk about what he sees as failed immigration policies that are Harris fault.

Weve got to throw Kamala Harris out of office, not give her a promotion, Vance said, arguing that he and Trump support law enforcement and law and order, while Harris does not.

Shelby Township Police Chief Robert Shelide introduced Vance, who said he received a briefing from officers ahead of his remarks.

Vance invoked the longstanding sports rivalry between his home state and Michigan: These guys have given me an incredible welcome despite the fact that Im an Ohio State guy.

Former Rep. Mike Rogers spotted on sidelines of Vance stop north of Detroit

Fresh off his win in Michigans Republican Senate primary, Rogers is out to see Sen. JD Vance stump in his home state.

Rogers secured the Republican nomination for a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan in Tuesdays primary and will face Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin in the November election.

Rogers has the backing of national Republican groups and former President Donald Trump. He defeated former U.S. Rep. Justin Amash and physician Sherry ODonnell.

He and Slotkin will now compete for a seat left open by longtime Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenows retirement.

Trump says hell debate Harris and predicts therell be an announcement about it soon

The former presidents comments came after he pulled out of a scheduled debate on ABC News.

I hear shes sort of a nasty person but not a good, good debater. But well see because well be debating her, I guess in the pretty near future. Its going to be announced fairly soon but well be debating her, Trump in an interview on Fox News Channels Fox & Friends on Wednesday.

Trump said he wants to debate Harris and he would prefer it to be on Fox, which is perceived as being friendlier to him, but said every network loves me very much right now and even suggested openness to debating on ABC News despite his protestations in recent weeks as he claimed the network was biased against him.

He claimed there might be a conflict with ABC News because he sued the network in March following a statement by anchor George Stephanopoulos that Trump had been found liable for rape. A New York jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing advice columnist E. Jean Carroll but rejected her claim that she was raped.

You could use that as an excuse. I could use that. Ive said that, is there a conflict. And you know, there might be, Trump said.

Trump agreed to the ABC debate two months after filing his lawsuit at the time when he initially was expected to face President Joe Biden. Hes recently cited his frustrations with Stephanopoulos as reason why he would not keep the debate commitment, along with the fact that he agreed to it when he thought he would be debating Biden, not Harris, and claimed that agreement was scuttled by Biden ending his reelection bid.

But Trump on Wednesday noted that ABC had said the debate would be moderated by World News Tonight anchor David Muir and ABC News Live Prime anchor Linsey Davis, which he didnt voice any objections about.

Trump didnt offer any further details.

With Walz on the national ticket, a colleague is taking over his role leading the partys governors

The Democratic Governors Association announced Wednesday that Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly would assume Walzs post as chairman of the organization.

Walz gave up his post as chairman Tuesday, when Harris tapped him as her vice presidential running mate, but continues to serve as Minnesotas governor.

Kelly, in her second term as Kansas governor, has served as the DGAs vice chair since late 2022. In a statement, she credited Walz with breaking fundraising records and putting Democratic candidates for governor in the best position to be competitive in tough races this year during his time leading the DGA.

Sen. JD Vance is hitting the campaign trail again Wednesday, but hes not going it alone

The GOP vice presidential nominee boarded his campaign plane along with his wife, Usha.

Vance is heading to the battleground states of Michigan and Wisconsin  the same two states his Democratic opponents are hitting, on the same day.

The Democrats Midwest swing comes a day after Vice President Kamala Harris officially unveiled Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate and appeared with him at a rally in Philadelphia, just hours after Vance made a campaign stop in the same city.

Both campaigns had planned to journey to North Carolina this week as well but called off those plans due to inclement weather concerns.

Harris-Walz vs. Trump-Vance: Its now an expanded battle for both the Sun Belt and Rust Belt

The most turbulent presidential campaign in generations is now set to play out as a 90-day sprint across two fronts: the Rust Belt and the Sun Belt.

With her choice of a Midwestern governor as a running mate, Vice President Kamala Harris pushed to shore up Blue Wall states  Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania  that Democrats need to win to keep the White House.

Harris, the first Black woman and woman of South Asian descent to head a major party ticket, and former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, will also be locked in Sun Belt competition to win Georgia, Arizona, Nevada and North Carolina, an electoral map that has expanded since Bidens decision to withdraw from the race.

An underappreciated jump-start for Walz

Tim Walz had two jump starts, the first largely unnoticed, the second underappreciated.

The first came earlier this year when the governor and the vice president visited a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Paul. That visit underscored shared values between the two, according to people familiar with Harris thinking. Key issues that resonated with Harris included Walzs advocacy for in vitro fertilization and child tax credits  an idea Walz has used in Minnesota.

The next key moment came July 23, two days after Bidens withdrawal, when Walz went on MSNBCs Morning Joe and uttered a dig at Trump and Vance that quickly went viral.

These guys are just weird, Walz said, in his signature conversational, informal manner.

For years, Democrats, including Biden and Harris, have leveled high-minded attacks on Trump as a threat to democracy. They spotlighted his legal troubles, racist and sexist rhetoric, the hard-right policies found in the Project 2025 agenda that Trump disavows. The jovial governor of Minnesota encapsulated it all in one word: weird. And he smiled while doing it.

Social media did its thing, and the Harris campaign took notice. Within days, the vice president  and other vice-presidential contenders  were using weird like an epithet.
Latest on Manitowoc school closure talks and 4 other stories you might have missed in July

MANITOWOC  The ongoing discussion by the Manitowoc School Board of closing one or two elementary schools topped the Herald Times Reporter's articles in July, along with news of Jason and Tina Prigge's condition and fundraising efforts on their behalf after a devastating motorcycle crash.

Here's the latest on five stories you may have missed in July.

Manitowoc School Board decides to close District Office building, but talks of closing a school are ongoing.

Exterior of the Manitowoc Public School District Administration Offices

The Manitowoc Public School District Office on Lindbergh Drive will be closing as a result of a decision by the Manitowoc School Board during a special meeting July 25.

The meeting was called to discuss Superintendent James Feil's most recent proposal for facilities repair and maintenance, which included plans to close two older elementary schools; prepare Stangel, Monroe and Jefferson schools for consolidation; and borrow $11.7 million to use on building maintenance and repairs.

Feil's proposal came in response to a facility audit done on all school buildings that identified more than $47.5 million in urgent building repairs.

Feil said declining enrollment makes consolidating elementary schools a possibility and would save the district millions, which could then be used to repair the buildings still in use.

When does school start?: When is the first day of school in Manitowoc County? Here's a list.

Community rallies around Manitowoc couple Jason and Tina Prigge after devastating motorcycle crash.

Tina and Jason Prigge

Jason and Tina Prigge have seen the community's generosity firsthand. The couple suffered severe injuries in a motorcycle crash July 6 in Shawano County. Jason's leg was crushed and Tina lost both limbs on her left side.

Shortly after discovering the couple's condition, Grow It Forward CEO Amber Daugs started a GoFundMe page and asked for donations to help the pair, both of whom are self-employed.

As of Aug. 6, the page has collected $213,194 for the Prigges.

In addition to the GoFundMe page, the community has hosted several fundraisers for the couple, including a large event July 11 at Digger Dave's. Dozens of people also turned out for a candlelight vigil July 13 at First Presbyterian Church.

The Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra is now selling wristbands for $3, with proceeds to be donated to the Prigges. People can find those at Brick's Downtown Bar and Grill, Capitol Civic Centre, Courthouse Pub, Graced, Grow It Forward - Harmony Cafe and Juicery, Heart and Homestead, Intention Boutique, Lilith's Locs, PetSkull Brewing, Ryan's on York, Schroeder's Department Store, Seehafer News, The Wharf Manitowoc, and Wild Iris Gifts and Botanicals.

A yoga and soundbath fundraiser event is being hosted by Illuminate Your Life and Soundspace USA from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 21. The event will take place at Soundspace USA on Expo Drive in Manitowoc.

Manitowoc County Board decided to implement a 0.5% sales tax.

The Manitowoc County Board passed an ordinance July 16 to implement the 0.5% sales tax starting Jan. 1, 2025.

Proceeds from the tax are expected to fill a $6 million deficit in the county's Human Services Department that was revealed in April.

The county board has wrestled with the decision to implement a sales tax for several years, but each time County Executive Bob Ziegelbauer promised to veto the ordinance. This time, Ziegelbauer said he would not veto the ordinance because the tax was implemented to fill the large hole in the Human Services budget.

Your say: What do you think of the new 0.5% sales tax that starts Jan. 1 in Manitowoc County? Tell us for a future article.

Kerry Inc. settled a lawsuit from the state over air pollution violations.

A lawsuit between the State of Wisconsin and Kerry Inc. over air pollution violations by its liquid smoke manufacturing facility in Manitowoc has been settled, with the manufacturer agreeing to pay $85,000.

The announcement came July 22 in a news release from Attorney General Josh Kaul's office after the case settlement was approved by the Manitowoc County Circuit Court July 11.

In the complaint, State of Wisconsin claimed Kerry Inc. violated multiple requirements of its air operation permit, including not observing the opacity of its air emissions, not testing the carbon monoxide concentration in its air emissions and not operating air pollution control equipment within the parameters required by the permit.

Last Kites Over Lake Michigan set: Kites Over Lake Michigan to fly for last time Aug. 31-Sept. 1 in Two Rivers

Gov. Tony Evers visited the Little Manitowoc River and Lincoln Park Zoo.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and Department of Administration Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld visited the Manitowoc Lincoln Park Zoo July 17 to tour the Little Manitowoc River.

The visit was part of the governor's efforts to meet with grant recipients of the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program. They were joined by Manitowoc Mayor Justin Nickels, Council President William Schlei and other city leaders.

City of Manitowoc received $121,449 from the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program to support two projects on the Little Manitowoc River, one for shoreline restoration and a second to install an accessible kayak launch on the river.

Alisa M. Schafer is a reporter for the Herald Times Reporter in Manitowoc. She can be reached by email at aschafer@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: Manitowoc school closures, latest on Prigge crash and more July news
The Los Angeles Unified School District may ask voters to approve a $9 billion bond measure for school repairs and upgrades.

The Board of Education on Wednesday is expected to vote on whether to place that bond measure on the November ballot, LAist reports.

If approved, the funds would cost property owners about $25 per $100,000 of assessed value.

School officials have already designated how theyd spend the money, which would also unlock matching funds from the state allocated by its own $10 billion bond measure that will also appear on this falls ballot.

By the districts estimate, 50,000 HVAC units, 18 million square feet of roofs, and 2 million square feet of plumbing piping need replacing, LAist reports. Other priorities include enhancing accessibility for students with disabilities, better energy efficiency, and green space.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
L.A. Unified Supt. Alberto Carvalho gets a tour of a new electric school bus from driver trainer Albino Rosas at the San Julian bus yard in Los Angeles on Aug. 2, 2024. A new school bond could help pay for these electric buses. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Los Angeles school officials on Wednesday will decide whether to put a $9-billion school construction bond on the ballot in November  the largest in district history and comparable in size to the $10-billion statewide school bond measure that is already going before voters.

A two-thirds majority  or at least five of seven board members  must vote yes and board approval is widely expected. In November, at least 55% of those casting ballots must vote yes for passage. In 2008 and 2020, voters approved $7-billion L.A. district bonds.

If approved by voters, the bond would raise property taxes for the median-priced home about $273 a year, according to estimates by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn. A district spokesperson put the median impact at closer to $100, saying the fee would be based on a home's assessed value not the market value.

L.A. school officials said in a staff report that the needs "are great  more than 60% of school buildings are over 50 years old and desperately in need of upgrades, which means most of Los Angeles Unified students are attending school in deteriorating and aging facilities that do not meet todays standards for learning and safety."

"Despite the upgrades that have already been completed or are underway, current estimates show that collectively Los Angeles Unified schools have over $80 billion of unfunded school facility and technology needs, and those needs grow every year," according to the report.

Read more: Your guide to Proposition 2: Education bond

The meeting was scheduled with 24 hours advance notice  the legal minimum. The board faced a Friday deadline to get the bond issue on the November ballot.

How would the bond money be used?

A summary of the initiative, posted Tuesday, spoke of the need "to upgrade, modernize, and replace aging and deteriorating school facilities, including school technology infrastructure and equipment."

Goals also include "enhancing and expanding outdoor spaces and food services for students" and promoting "energy efficiency."

From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, the school system coped with crowding by operating year-round  but with a calendar that reduced the number of school days for students by nearly a month. And scheduling limitations excluded many students from advanced coursework. Meanwhile, playgrounds became seas of asphalt broken up by portable classroom buildings.

In response, the school system has passed a series of bonds since the late 1990s.

High construction costs reduced the original scope of the project, but the effort returned students to a full school year and to their neighborhood schools. This was possible in part because enrollment began to decline steadily, a trend that has continued.

New challenges in 2024

The current challenge is to repair aging campuses and modernize and improve classrooms and school buildings.

The existing construction program is not yet out of money  it still has several billion dollars to spend  but these funds already are committed to planned, high-priority projects. Unfunded high-priority projects would be far more than enough to exhaust the $9 billion being sought, officials said.

An example of the current wave of projects is the ongoing reconstruction of Belvedere Middle School in East Los Angeles and Roosevelt High School in Boyle Heights.

It also could be seen Monday at Jordan High School in Watts. Bond money had been used to build a wellness clinic that will serve the physical and mental health needs of families in a low-income community that is short on healthcare.

This clinic first opened in 2008, but the provider could not keep it going during the COVID-19 pandemic. A new provider, UMMA Community Clinic, is taking over the refurbished facility.

"What we have behind us is proof positive that what is happening in this community is still not a reality [in] many other communities," said L.A. schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho. "So continued investments in physical infrastructure like these wellness centers, like air conditioning units, like roofs, window replacement. All the things that we want to see in every single community continue to be a priority for our district and our school board."

The district also could use bond funds to pay for projects such as the continued conversion from a gas-powered to an electric fleet of school buses.

What about the state school bond?

Proposition 2 would allow the state to borrow $10 billion to help fund repairs and upgrades at thousands of public elementary, middle and high schools and community colleges across California.

The money from the last successful school bond, which passed in 2016, has long since been spent, and the states school repair fund is expected to be depleted by January. There is a wait list of districts hoping the new bond will pass so that $3.4 billion can be provided for already approved projects to take care of hazardous mold, leaky roofs and septic systems, as well as to build classrooms, modernize science labs and replace aging buildings.

Proposition 2 would provide $8.5 billion in facility renovations and new construction for TK-12 schools, with 10% of the funds dedicated to small school districts. Community colleges would receive $1.5 billion. If approved by a simple majority of voters, the bond would allow legislators to borrow money that would be repaid out of the state budget over time.

Opposition emerges

A spokesperson for the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn. voiced opposition to the Los Angeles school district bond.

"At a time when Los Angeles homeowners are struggling to pay the high cost of living, including skyrocketing utility bills, this bond would sharply increase property taxes," said Susan Shelley, the group's vice president for communications.

Using the district's description of the measure's impact, she calculated that over 30 years, the owner of a median-priced home "would pay over $8,200 in increased property taxes for this bond alone."

She added: "With enrollment declining, taxpayers have a right to ask that all possible cost savings be implemented before the district asks for another tax increase."

The Jarvis association also opposes the state school bond.

School-board seats also will be on the ballot in November. Three of the seven seats  which are divided geographically  will be up for grabs.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
LAUSD puts $9 billion in bonds on ballot that would update campuses and raise property taxes

An L.A. school bond on the November ballot would include an estimated $75 million to buy electric school buses like the one above. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times)

The Los Angeles Board of Education on Wednesday voted unanimously to put a $9-billion school construction bond on the ballot in November  the largest in district history and comparable in size to the $10-billion statewide school bond measure that is already going before voters.

If approved by at least 55% of voters, the L.A. Unified School District bond would raise property taxes for the median-priced home about $273 a year, according to estimates by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn. A district spokesperson put the median impact at closer to $100, saying the fee would be based on a home's assessed value, not the market value.

The overall rate of taxation will be $25 per year for every $100,000 of assessed valuation, adding to a property tax bill that already contains fees for other purposes, including for the repayment of earlier school bonds.

"The time is now," said L.A. schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho during Wednesday's specially called meeting. "I know this is a tough question. It is never an easy one, but what we do defines who we are.

What makes the question tougher is that L.A. Unified is asking for more facilities funding amid steadily declining enrollment  a trend that experts say will ultimately lead to the closing of campuses, including those that are part of the bond spending plan.

The $9 billion amount is "not too much," Carvalho said, in the context of a calculated need of $80 billion, alluding to a district estimate.

The benefits and costs of these bonds apply only to areas within the boundaries of the Los Angeles Unified School District. That includes the city of L.A., as well as all or part of some two dozen smaller cities, including Bell, Maywood, South Gate and San Fernando.

At Wednesday's meeting nearly all public speakers strongly supported the bond, although some objected to particulars.

The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn. opposes the bond.

"At a time when Los Angeles homeowners are struggling to pay the high cost of living, including skyrocketing utility bills, this bond would sharply increase property taxes," said Susan Shelley, the group's vice president for communications.

She added: "With enrollment declining, taxpayers have a right to ask that all possible cost savings be implemented before the district asks for another tax increase."

L.A. school officials said in a staff report that the needs "are great  more than 60% of school buildings are over 50 years old and desperately in need of upgrades, which means most of Los Angeles Unified students are attending school in deteriorating and aging facilities that do not meet todays standards for learning and safety."

Read more: Your guide to Proposition 2: Education bond

The meeting was scheduled with 24 hours' advance notice  the legal minimum. The board faced a Friday deadline to get the bond issue on the November ballot.

How would the bond money be used?

A summary of the initiative spoke of the need "to upgrade, modernize, and replace aging and deteriorating school facilities, including school technology infrastructure and equipment."

Goals also include "enhancing and expanding outdoor spaces and food services for students" and promoting "energy efficiency."

Projections call for about $5 billion for "major modernizations, upgrades and reconfigurations to school campuses."

Other funding areas include: $75 million for electric buses; $461 million for cafeteria upgrades: $258 million to make spaces accessible for those with disabilities; $70.5 million for security cameras.

About $1.25 billion is to go toward school greening projects. These could include planting trees, removing asphalt from playgrounds, installing outdoor classrooms and erecting shade structures.

Mireya Valencia, progam director of the L.A. Neighborhood Land Trust, called for more, saying about $3 billion is needed for such efforts.

About $300 million is provisionally set aside for charter schools, which enroll about 22% of district students. That amount is too low, said Keith Dell-Aquila, an advocate with the California Charter Schools Assn. He added that the district should adjust its plans on how the money would be spent.

District officials said they had flexibility on spending decisions, but did not commit to making specific changes.

Charters are privately operated public schools that frequently make use of available space in district-operated campuses. The charter association has not taken a position on the bond.

All board members praised the upcoming bond effort. But board member Nick Melvoin said the district needs to examine its construction practices.

"Things need to be done more efficiently, more quickly, and more cheaply," Melvoin said. "We need to work harder and we need to work better."

A history of overcrowding

From the mid-1980s through the early 2000s, the school system coped with crowding by operating year-round  but with a calendar that reduced the number of school days for students by nearly a month. And scheduling limitations excluded many students from advanced coursework. Meanwhile, playgrounds became seas of asphalt broken up by portable classroom buildings.

In response, the school system has passed a series of bonds since the late 1990s.

High construction costs reduced the original scope of the projects, but the effort returned students to a full school year and to their neighborhood schools. This was possible in part because enrollment began to decline steadily, a trend that has continued.

New challenges in 2024

The current challenge is to repair aging campuses and modernize and improve classrooms and school buildings.

The existing construction program is not yet out of money. About $3.5 billion is assigned to projects that have been approved but not put out to bid. Another $1.8 billion is earmarked for projects that the Board of Education has yet to approve.

An example of the current wave of projects is the ongoing reconstruction of Belvedere Middle School in East Los Angeles and Roosevelt High School in Boyle Heights.

The work of the bond-funded construction also could be seen Monday at Jordan High School in Watts. Bond money had been used to build a wellness clinic that will serve the physical and mental health needs of families in a low-income community that is short on healthcare.

This clinic first opened in 2008, but the provider could not keep it going during the COVID-19 pandemic. A new provider, UMMA Community Clinic, is taking over the refurbished facility.

"What we have behind us is proof positive that what is happening in this community is still not a reality [in] many other communities," Carvalho said at the clinic's grand opening. "So continued investments in physical infrastructure like these wellness centers, like air conditioning units, like roofs, window replacement. All the things that we want to see in every single community continue to be a priority for our district and our school board."

What about the state school bond?

Proposition 2 would allow the state to borrow $10 billion to help fund repairs and upgrades at school districts and community colleges.

The money from the last successful school bond, which passed in 2016, has long since been spent, and the states school repair fund is expected to be depleted by January. There is a wait list of districts hoping the new bond will pass so that $3.4 billion can be provided for already approved projects to take care of hazardous mold, leaky roofs and septic systems, as well as to build classrooms, modernize science labs and replace aging buildings.

If approved by a simple majority of voters, the bond would allow legislators to borrow money that would be repaid out of the state budget over time.

L.A. officials estimate that the district could be eligible for about $700 million from the state bond.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Getty Images

UPDATE (August 7, 2024): After New York passed a law at the end of 2023 requiring all cosmetology schools in the state to make textured hair education part of the general curriculum, two other states followed suit. Minnesota governor (and Kamala Harris's vice presidential pick) Tim Walz signed similar legislation into law on May 24 of this year. On June 17, Connecticut governor Ned Lamont did the same.

Ease is a concept not generally normalized in the Black community, especially when it comes to getting our hair done. From birth, were often told our natural textures are bad and unmanageable, notions many hair-care professionals of all races have long believed, much to our detriment. As a result, having the privilege of being able to walk into any salon and expect adequate service is unfathomable, even in 2023. Even more than a decade into the second wave natural hair movement. Even after the racial reckoning of 2020.

Things have slowly started to improve, however. For example, the CROWN Act  which makes race-based hair discrimination illegal  was first signed into law in California in July 2019. Since then, 23 states, including New York, have joined the movement. Now, New York State is continuing the momentum with a new law that requires all cosmetology schools in the region to make natural hair education a part of the general curriculum.

It's not only common sense, its the right thing to do, New York State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, who introduced Bill S6528A in April, tells Allure. It's personal.

How have cosmetology schools gotten a pass for such blatant exclusion for this long? And how will this new law help to create more inclusive salons? We speak with Sen. Bailey, New York State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, who carried the legislation in the Assembly, and a few hair-care professionals to find out more.

What You Need to Know About Bill S6528A

Bill S6528As main goal is to diversify cosmetology school education in order to equip all students  regardless of race  with the knowledge to work across every hair texture. As the bill states, graduates should have the ability to provide styling and hair-care services to individuals with all hair types and textures, including, but not limited to, various curl or wave patterns, hair strand thicknesses, and volumes of hair.

Introduced in April, Bill S6528A was officially signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul on November 17, and will take full effect in approximately six months. This gives cosmetology schools in New York State time to adapt their courses and overall curriculums to ensure theyre in alignment with the new law, Sen. Bailey explains.

This law, while vital, is not the first of its kind in New York: In 2017, New York Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow spearheaded legislation which mandated New York add a professional hairstylist to the states Appearance Enhancement Advisory Committee to advise on matters concerning curriculums inclusive of all textured hair, says Myra Reddy, director of government affairs at the Professional Beauty Association (PBA). The advisory committee gives counsel to the secretary of state on all matters relating to the appearance-enhancement business, with this particular law helping to raise standards for Black New Yorkers.

Reddy continues, Senator Bailey and Assemblywoman Solages legislation to mandate texture hair education builds upon the important work Assemblyman Pretlow put in motion.

For Assemblywoman Solages, supporting Bill S6528A was a no-brainer. As a Black woman with textured hair, she is plenty familiar with prejudice  thats why she knows these types of laws are essential. "It provides a legal framework to address longstanding issues of discrimination and bias related to textured hair, she explains.

Furthermore, in the beauty sphere many of the industry-wide pledges for increased inclusivity after 2020s racial reckoning have fallen flat, just three years later. For example, WWDs Beauty Inc. recently reported that while major beauty companies had ambitious goals to diversify their boards, many have yet to hit their targets. But that doesnt mean legislators forgot.

"It became clear that more concrete steps were necessary to address the specific challenges faced by individuals with textured hair, Solages says. The introduction of Bill S6528A was a response to the ongoing need for diversity and inclusion in the cosmetology industry, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their hair type, receives the attention and expertise they deserve in salons."

Racism in Cosmetology Schools and Bill S6528As Potential Impact

Historically, cosmetology schools across the US, including in New York, have not featured natural hair education as a part of the general curriculum  and if they did, training was typically minimal.

For the most part, the only way students could learn how to work with textured hair was to seek additional training, which requires access to extra funds for tuition and the bandwidth to take on more courses. Over time, this has created a permanent blind spot for most stylists when it comes to properly serving Black clients.

Matt King, Bumble and bumbles director of global flagship salons, says, In my nearly 20 years of working in the salon and hair industry, both as a stylist and an educator, I, like many of my peers, have seen firsthand the pervasive education gap when it comes to textured hair training. (Bumble and bumble is a member of the Professional Beauty Associations Texture Education Collective, or TEC.)

So how has this type of brazen exclusion been normalized for so long? For Keya Neal, a former hairstylist, founder of Texture vs. Race, and supporting member of the TEC, the answer is simple: It comes down to racism.

The exclusion of texture from the general curriculum is a direct result of the salons history of segregation, Neal says. Historically, she explains, cosmetology literature has only included depictions of white women, which can be seen in vintage textbooks, along with tutorials solely focused on working with straight or slightly wavy hair. This set the industrys tone and standard in relation to texture, inclusion, and race.

As for the new laws potential impact, according to Sen. Bailey, Bill S6528A will be forward-focused, meaning that it will apply to current and future cosmetology students who have yet to graduate.

Each school will be responsible for updating its own curriculum, but classes must include natural hair education to meet New York States new standards. The PBAs Texture Education Collective will provide additional support. Says Reddy, [Were] working toward offering supplemental materials, resources, and guidance to cosmetology programs and/or regulators, with added focus on textured hair, to support the transition.

The state board exam will also need to be updated to include questions that reflect knowledge of textured hair care, and traditional mannequins and hair models will need to be diversified to ensure students get adequate hands-on training.

The TEC is engaged in conversations with testing company PSIs National Barber and Cosmetology Program Testing, which is a supporting member of the TEC, Reddy says. PSI provides an opportunity for volunteer engagement and feedback regarding testing and has allowed the TEC to learn more about the process for exam research, inclusive of licensed and trained subject matter experts.

Schools that fail to comply with the new law may face disciplinary actions or other measures, notes Assemblywoman Solages. This could include civil penalties, such as a fine for noncompliance.

Licensed stylists who are currently practicing wont be required to go back to school, but they are encouraged to seek additional courses. [The law] emphasizes the ongoing need for education and training to ensure that professionals in the field are equipped with the knowledge and skills to work with all hair types, including textured hair," says Solages.

Through enforcing this legislation, the hope is that New York State will eventually become a place where all salons are inclusive, safe, and trusted spaces for anyone with textured hair, whether they want a curly cut or a fade and line-up. And it could create a nationwide movement. Says Reddy, The momentum of this law, coupled with its implementation, will serve as a blueprint for other states, hopefully, to swiftly adopt similar laws.

The Unspoken Double Standard in Salons and Barbershops

Many white stylists are not equipped to work with textured hair, but most Black hair-care professionals have the skills to style all hair types  and are expected to. Throughout my career, there has always been an expectation for me to know everything while being presented with lesser opportunities, says Neal. My white counterparts were not expected to know how to apply their niche to all textures, yet I was.

Despite an obvious education gap among white stylists, though, a 2022 report published by Unilever found this demographic was still paid the highest annual salary compared with hairstylists of all other races.

There is an inequitable expectation of excellence applied to all Black artists in any segment of the industry, Neal says. I see this in how Black stylists migrate to white salons to expand their textural skills, while their white counterparts very rarely take the same opportunity to learn from Black salons.

The same can be said for barbers too. During the 19th century, the first Black barbers in America were still enslaved and groomed solely white men. Today, Black-owned barbershops primarily serve Black clientele, but its not necessarily uncommon for a white person to walk in and be able to get a proper cut.

At the same time, many white barbers are not trained in the basics of Black grooming, such as knowing which razors are suitable to use to prevent common concerns specific to textured hair, like ingrowns. In the event that a Black person is unable to see their regular barber, things can get tricky  especially if youre in a predominantly white area.

The struggle is real, Sen. Bailey says with a sigh. If I can't get in to see my barber, I'll go back and forth as to whether somebody's going to know how to line me up properly. I live in the Bronx, and I often have to travel to Albany for a [congressional] session. There are times where I feel like I need a line-up or a tape-up in Albany, and I'm not necessarily comfortable.

Whether it's a salon or barbershop, the lack of education about textured hair comes with a human cost. In these scenarios, Black people either have to risk potential denial of service or hair/scalp damage if stylists are not equipped to work with them.

The Future of Hairstyling in New York State

Despite the bills good intentions, only time will tell if all salons within New York truly become more inclusive. Beyond enforcing education of textured hair in cosmetology schools, though, Bill S6528A serves an even larger purpose: acknowledging that Black people deserve to feel at ease in any salon chair. Embracing the idea that all individuals are worthy of professional services that are safe, provided in a sanitary environment by a trained and licensed individual feels necessary, Reddy says. We are all deserving of equal access to hair-care services.

Although hairstyling is sometimes deemed an indulgent practice, its important to remember that moments of rest, relaxation, and pampering can have a positive impact on our overall wellbeing. When we talk about mental health and how we feel," says Sen. Bailey, "I think that we should understand that hair care and personal care are a part of that overall feeling of wellness.

But lets be clear: Bill S6528A is not a quick-fix  and it sure wont instantly alleviate Black peoples generational distrust of non-Black stylists. It does, however, have the potential to open new doors.

There's no one state law or any law that [can] solve societal ills, says Sen. Bailey. But when people that are not necessarily of your culture take the time out to learn something, I think it is looked upon favorably. But if you feel more comfortable with your Black stylist, you should continue to go see a Black stylist. If you feel comfortable going to someone else, by all means

Overall, though, this bill has the potential to lead the state into a better future, one where Black people no longer feel ashamed of their natural features, and one where, as highly engaged beauty spenders, we understand our buying power and only enter salons where we feel safe and welcome.

Keep reading:

Stylists Across America Are (Finally) Getting Schooled in Black Hair

These Silk Press & Blowout Bars Are Redefining Black Hair Salon Culture

Why Some Black Women Are Going Back to Relaxers

Originally Appeared on Allure
Rep. Matt Duffield, R-Russellville, left, and Sen. Mark Johnson, R-Ferndale, at a news conference April 18, 2024, about the death of Bryan Malinowski after federal agents raided his home in March. About 24 other lawmakers stood behind them. (Photo by Sonny Albarado/Arkansas Advocate)

Conway resident Jimmie Cavin filed suit Tuesday against Arkansas State Police alleging the agency violated the states public records law in responding to a request for its investigative file into the shooting death of Bryan Malinowski.

Malinowski, 53, was executive director of Little Rocks airport when he was shot by a federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agent during a pre-dawn raid on his West Little Rock home on March 19. He died a day later from a gunshot wound to the head. ATF agents and other law enforcement officers were serving a search warrant in connection with an investigation targeting Malinowski for allegedly acquiring and selling firearms illegally.

The shooting generated intense public interest and criticism because of the nature of the offense Malinowski was suspected of and the circumstances of the raid. Arkansas lawmakers and members of Congress questioned the necessity of using tactical gear and a nighttime raid to serve a search warrant on a person with no history of violent behavior. Lawmakers and others also questioned why ATF agents were not wearing body cameras as required by agency policy.

After reviewing the Arkansas State Police investigative file on the shooting, Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones ruled on June 14 that the agents use of deadly force was justifiable. Law enforcement investigative files become available publicly at the conclusion of a case.

On June 29, Cavin submitted an Arkansas Freedom of Information Act request for the entire ASP investigative file, according to the lawsuit filed in Pulaski County Circuit Court on his behalf Tuesday by attorneys Joey McCutchen and Stephen Napurano of Fort Smith. The request covered any audio and video recordings as well as the ATF Operational Plan for the raid, the complaint says. ASP responded to Cavins AFOIA request on July 1 with a link to the requested file.

Cavins lawsuit says state police violated the AFOIA by failing to provide videos of interviews with ATF and Little Rock Police Department officers involved in the Malinowski raid. The suit also claims that audio of those interviews appeared to have been altered.

State police also violated the public records law by not complying with a subsequent request for the name, make and identification numbers of any devices used to record the interviews with officers involved in the raid, the lawsuit says.

The suit says Cavin contacted state police on July 15 to ask for the video of the interviews and was told that the agencys Criminal Investigation Division did not video-record the interviews.

A review of the audio files, however, revealed they were in a format typically used for video and that there had been a video element to them, the lawsuit says.

This suggests that the videos were intentionally removed, the complaint says.

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On July 31, the suit says, Cavin submitted another FOIA request seeking the make, model and identification number of the devices used to record the interviews of the ATF and LRPD officers as well as the original media file created by each device for each interview.

A state police representative reiterated that no video existed and did not supply the requested recording device information, the suit says.

The suit says the ATF Operational Plan wasnt in the file Cavin originally received, but was in a file he received through a public records request to the prosecuting attorneys office, raising a question as to why since the prosecutor based his decision on the ASP file.

The suit asks the court to declare ASP in violation of the public records law and to order its employees who handle public records requests to undergo training. The suit also asks the court to enjoin state police from altering public records and withholding public records in the future.

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A new lawsuit from a local conservative group seeks to force election officials in Arizona's most populous county to take extra steps to verify the citizenship status of about 26,000 voters.

The suit, filed against Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer by Trump-aligned America First Legal on behalf of Strong Communities Foundation of Arizona, is the latest in a series of legal challenges regarding voters who register to cast ballots in federal races without providing documentary proof of citizenship. It comes weeks after the law group sent out demand letters to counties statewide and hits during a key period for voter registration before the high-stakes presidential election in November.

Nationwide, registration forms generally require voters to attest that they are American citizens. Voters do so under the penalty of perjury, meaning they can be held criminally liable if they are found to have provided false information. But Arizona also requires voters to hand over a birth certificate, a passport or one of a handful of other documents proving their citizenship.

Of the state's 4.1 million registered voters, about 42,000 haven't provided that proof, creating a unique, two-track system. Federal courts have repeatedly ruled that state lawmakers can block voters who have not shown citizenship documents from participating in state and local races, but must allow so-called "federal-only voters" to cast ballots in federal contests. That includes the upcoming presidential race, U.S. Senate contest and congressional matchups.

These voters still go through checks.

State law mandates that county recorders "use all available resources to verify the citizenship status" of those registering to vote, including checking the citizenship status of federal-only voters against an immigration status verification service provided by the Department of Homeland Security when practicable. That system requires specific identification numbers that county officials don't have for every federal-only voter.

Voter rolls are also routinely checked with information from the U.S. Social Security Administration, the U.S. Postal Service, the Arizona Department of Health Services, the Arizona Department of Transportation and the Maricopa County Jury Commissioners Office.

But attorneys with America First Legal said that isn't enough and raised concerns about growing numbers of federal-only voters in recent months. Their suit accuses Richer of failing to perform required voter list maintenance  a claim his office denies.The lawyers say county officials should take extra steps to verify the citizenship of federal-only voters, such as directly requesting citizenship information from the Department of Homeland Security under provisions of federal codes that requires government entities to exchange information about a person's citizenship status for purposes mandated in law.

"This lawsuit seeks to restore public trust in our States electoral system by holding Recorder Richer accountable for his failures and to ensure that the list maintenance required by the law  and common sense  is performed," the suit reads.

Sierra Ciaramella, a spokesperson for the Maricopa County Recorder's Office, said the agency maintains "accurate, up-to-date voter rolls."

"Under Recorder Stephen Richer, voter list maintenance has remained a top priority, removing more than 400,000 voters from the rolls since January 2021," she said. "As an administrative office, we will continue to follow the letter of the law."

Arizonas registration records show it's Republicans, not Democrats, who have added to their voter edge since last years election.

Ahead of election, conservatives raise concerns about federal-only voters

The lawsuit against Maricopa County comes on the heels of several dizzying swerves in an ongoing legal appeal that ultimately aims to require all Arizona voters to show proof of citizenship to register to vote.

The appeal, brought by GOP legislative leaders and national Republicans, challenged a federal judge's decision to block portions of two laws passed in 2022. Last month, a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals temporarily stayed that decision and said voters registering on state forms could see their applications rejected for not providing proof of citizenship. The court determined voters could continue to register to vote in federal races if they used federal voter registration forms.

It then swiftly reversed its decision, ruling last week that Arizonans would again be allowed to register to vote in federal races with state forms without having to prove citizenship. Republican officials have since vowed to seek an emergency stay from the U.S. Supreme Court.

Ciaramella said at least 200 voter registration requests were rejected in the time period between the two court decisions. She said the most recent ruling didn't include a retroactive reconsideration of those registration attempts, but county officials are in the process of sending letters to rejected voters informing them of the new ruling and how they can register to vote.

Reporter Mary Jo Pitzl contributed to this article.

Sasha Hupka covers county government and election administration for The Arizona Republic. Reach her at sasha.hupka@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X: @SashaHupka. Follow her on Instagram or Threads: @sashahupkasnaps. Sign up for her weekly election newsletter, Republic Recount.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Lawsuit seeks extra citizenship checks for 26K Maricopa County voters
Orlando lawyer John Morgan has posted his most provocative social-media rant yet against Florida Senate candidate Tom Leek, challenging him to a debate about homeowners' insurance.

"We will debate this issue and what went on, and I will give $100,000 to the charity of your choice, as long as it's not your favorite charity, you  it can be something else," Morgan said, addressing Leek directly and pointing to the camera. "If you have the balls to do it."

Morgan has previously attacked Leek for his growing personal wealth and for supporting tort reforms unpopular with trial lawyers.

The four-term state representative from Ormond Beach engaged in a heated Republican primary against former St. Johns County Sheriff David Shoar and former professional athlete Gerry James.

Leek isn't taking Morgan's bait.

Orlando attorney John Morgan poses a challenge to Florida Senate candidate Tom Leek, an Ormond Beach Republican, offering $100,000 to the charity of Leek's choice in order to debate him about homeowners' insurance policy.

A spokesperson for the Leek campaign responded by tying Morgan and other trial lawyers to a list of people and organizations unpopular to Republican primary voters.

"State Rep. Tom Leek debates his Republican primary opponents, not their Democratic funders  who also back President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, former gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum and The Lincoln Project," according to a statement attributed to a campaign spokesperson. "They have expended millions of dollars in attacking President Donald Trump, Gov. Ron DeSantis and conservative Republican values."

Morgan repeats suggestion Leek has profited from high insurance rates

Morgan  known for his Morgan & Morgan TV commercials and backing of legalizing marijuana  posted a three-minute video on X Tuesday, calling Leek is a "nuisance" and a shill for the insurance industry.

"He carries their water," Morgan said.

In particular, during a 2022 special session, Leek sponsored a bill that removed a provision requiring insurance companies to pay the legal fees of a homeowner whose claim had been denied but then was successful in court.

"After Tom Leek got finished with his special session, no longer would you get attorney's fees if your house was damaged," Morgan said. "You would now, under the Tom Leek bill, have to give your lawyer a piece of the money to fix your house, which means you won't have enough money to fix your house."

Leek has argued the measures taken by lawmakers are designed to increase competition and ultimately result in a stabilized market and lowered rates.

And Morgan alleged Leek is in politics for himself, citing his financial disclosures, which showed Leek's net worth about $1.1 million when he first got into office in 2017. That net worth rose to more than $16 million this year.

"Once upon a time, insurance companies had to do the right thing. No longer. And here's the other thing: Tom Leek got rich on it," Morgan said.

Leek has explained that he changed jobs during that time, joining upstart Daytona Beach-based insurance brokerage Foundation Risk Partners the year after it opened in 2017.

"We took a chance on ourselves, worked hard, and in August 2022 our efforts were rewarded when the company recapitalized with a new private equity partner," Leek told The News-Journal in January. "We are most grateful that our entrepreneurial efforts were successful."

Morgan cites Trump tweet attacking DeSantis

Morgan noted Leek voted against an amendment seeking to force insurance companies to lower rates by 6.4% in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

And then, to twist the knife a little deeper, he cited a 2023 Donald Trump social-media post attacking Gov. Ron DeSantis, his then-rival for the Republican presidential nomination. "Ron DeSanctimonious is delivering the biggest insurance company BAILOUT to Globalist Insurance Companies IN HISTORY," the post reads. "This is the worst Insurance Scam in the entire Country!"

On Saturday, Trump endorsed Leek's rival, Shoar.

Leek, who's been the target of a television and print ad blitz, says Shoar is being backed by lawyers such as Morgan because he has championed reforms that take money out of their pockets.

The Leek spokesperson explained: "He is not surprised by the onslaught of campaign attacks and ridiculous allegations made by the dark money billboard personal injury lawyer groups over the last several months. Rep. Leek has fought these special interest groups throughout his eight-year tenure in the House and is now fighting against millions of dollars leveled at him from those who continue to support their chosen candidate, David Shoar."

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: John Morgan challenges GOP Florida Senate candidate Tom Leek to debate
East Grand Rapids attorney Paul Hudson will challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, in Michigans 3rd Congressional District this fall, after Hudson emerged victorious from the districts Republican primary election on Tuesday.

Hudson, who leads the appellate division at the Miller Canfield law firm, defeated Grand Haven entrepreneur Michael Markey. The Associated Press called the race around midnight for Hudson. With 99% of the vote tallied, Hudson led Markey, 55% to 45%.

Scholten, meanwhile, had no trouble in her own Democratic primary Tuesday night, beating west Michigan businessman Salim Al-Shatel 91% to 9% with 99% of the vote counted.

Come back to www.freep.com for updated vote totals.

Before running for Congress, Hudson previously sought a seat on the Michigan Supreme Court, receiving the fourth-most votes in 2022 when two seats were up for election.

On his campaign website, Hudson calls for reducing government spending, cutting taxes and bolstering immigration laws to strengthen the U.S. southern border, among his campaign priorities.

Hudson put out a statement, saying, "Ninety days from now, 3rd District voters will have a clear choice about who will represent them in Congress. My candidacy represents a positive, unifying vision focused on promoting growth, prosperity and security for all of west Michigan and our nation. By stark contrast, Hillary Scholten campaigned on a promise of moderate bipartisanship, but when she arrived in Congress her record quickly shifted to another party-line progressive."

Scholten  who was the only Democratic member of Michigan's U.S. House delegation to call for President Joe Biden to step aside as nominee ahead of his decision to do so late last month  defended her performance in office on social media platform X and said she's looking forward to the election.

"I set out to build something new here in west Michigan. And that's just what I'm doing. I ran on my record of delivering for west Michigan on the issues that matter. That's what voters wanted. I'm so grateful. Now, lets win this thing in November!" Scholten posted.

The 3rd District is centered around Michigans second-largest city, Grand Rapids, and covers most of Kent County. It stretches west to the shores of Lake Michigan, covering the city of Muskegon and the northern half of Ottawa County, as well.

Compared to previous iterations, its a much more Democratic-leaning district after it was redrawn ahead of the 2022 midterm elections. Scholten defeated Republican candidate John Gibbs by double digits in 2022, a year in which Democrats throughout the state saw success on election night. Before Scholtens win, Grand Rapids had seen Republican representation in Congress for decades.

The Cook Political Report rates the district as likely Democratic, meaning Scholten likely has an edge in her reelection campaign, but the race could become competitive heading toward November. And Hudson, who has gathered institutional support among Republicans, could prove to be a formidable challenger in the 3rd, especially with the GOP stoking concerns about illegal immigration in the area.

He does, however, have a cash-on-hand disadvantage compared to Scholten. He had around $306,000 in cash on hand at the end of the most recent reporting period, according to the Federal Elections Commission. FEC data shows Scholten with over $2.4 million in cash on hand for the same period.

Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@freepress.com. Staff writer Todd Spangler contributed to this story.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Lawyer Paul Hudson to take on US Rep. Scholten in west Michigan district
Rep. Bob Good, R-Va., speaks at a news conference held by members of the House Freedom Caucus on Capitol Hill in Washington, July 29, 2021. Good, the chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, is expected to step aside, sparking discussions about who would be the next leader. | Andrew Harnik

The chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, a conservative congressional group in the U.S. House of Representatives, is expected to step aside, sparking discussions about who would be the next leader.

Rep. Bob Good, R-Va., chairman of the at-times rebellious caucus, lost his Republican primary bid and the recount that followed last week by roughly 370 votes. During his time in leadership, he drew the ire of different conservative factions.

Good threw his support behind Gov. Ron DeSantis over former President Donald Trump in the GOP presidential primary. This alienated Good from his colleagues and created an uphill path to reelection because his opponent, Virginia state Sen. John McGuire, earned Trumps endorsement and eventually won.

Good is also one of the eight people who voted to remove former Rep. Kevin McCarthy from the speakership last year, prompting unease from moderate Republicans toward the Virginia representative.

In July, Good publicly confirmed he would step down as the chair if he lost the recount. I think that would probably be in the best interest of the organization, he said, as Politico reported.

Good has yet to officially resign from his position. After he does, the conservative group will have a few weeks to pick a new leader.

Who could replace Rep. Bob Good as Freedom Caucus chairman?

Good refused to take any names for who his successor could be. The House Freedom Caucus has begun discussions on the matter. Reports point to a possibility that a former chair, either Rep. Scott Perry of Pennsylvania or Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona, could be tapped to lead the group for the rest of Goods term.

The two former chairmen have stood behind Good, and Biggs even traveled to Virginia to campaign for the exiting caucus leader.

Other potential candidates include Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, who presently chairs the policy arm of the conservative group. He, too, firmly stood in support of Good during the primary.

Could that be why the swamp is not attracted to someone like Bob Good  because Good is not here for power? said Roy at a rally for Good days before the election, as Politico reported. That Bobs there and willing to take on the hard fights?

Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., is another possibility. He won his primary the same day Good lost.

What do Bob Goods critics say?

While announcing he would step down, Good also defended his record and argued any changes he made followed in the footsteps of the caucus former chairmen.

I would challenge anyone to substantiate any claims that I have taken HFC in a direction thats different than Perry or Biggs, he said. These high-profile conflicts and fights we have predated me.

Goods defenders also include Utah Sen. Mike Lee, who said Good is an exceptionally rare and valuable statesman in a post on May 28.

Good may have lost the battle, but he has helped purge Republican moderates from the party, Stephen Farnsworth, a political scientist at the University of Mary Washington, told the Richmond Times-Dispatch. The Republican caucus in Washington, and in Richmond for that matter, is more uniformly conservative than it ever was.

But the same inflexibility that makes the Freedom Caucus appealing to some Republican voters can be its undoing for some individual members, as Good learned in this primary, Farnsworth said.

Earlier this month, Freedom Caucus members ousted Rep. Warren Davidson, R-Ohio, after he endorsed Goods opponent. Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, resigned in protest the same day.

Late last year, Davidson was one of the most vocal voices against the idea of Good as chairman. In a letter to his colleagues, he wrote, I ask that you prayerfully consider electing someone else as Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus.

I ask that we consider how to best increase our influence while preserving our power to move policy in the right direction. I strongly feel that Bob Good as Chairman will impair that objective, he added, according to Axios .

The House Freedom Caucus also booted Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and Rep. Ken Buck R-Colo., this Congress.
WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Capitol. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Battles for Washingtons seats in the U.S. House came into sharper focus Tuesday night, with an endangered Republican incumbent on track to slip through the primary and a highly anticipated rematch solidifying in southwest Washington.

U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse has drawn the ire of fellow Republicans since voting in 2021 to impeach former President Donald Trump. Trump endorsed two Republicans trying to oust him from the seat hes held for nearly a decade. As it stood late Tuesday, he could end up facing one of those opponents  Jerrod Sessler  in the November election.

Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, a Democrat, who flipped a Republican-held seat in 2022 by narrowly defeating Republican Joe Kent, will face him again this fall. Their sequel showdown in the 3rd Congressional District will draw national attention as it is one of the races that will help determine which political party holds the House majority next year.

And a pair of state senators, Democrat Emily Randall and Republican Drew MacEwen, were the frontrunners in the contest to succeed a retiring congressman. Hilary Franz, the Democratic public lands commissioner, who had competed fiercely with Randall, wasnt conceding Tuesday.

Heres a round-up of what happened on election night. Counties will update their vote counts throughout Wednesday.

3rd District

Gluesenkamp Perez, 36, who emerged as one of the most moderate House Democrats in her first term, voting with Republicans on multiple occasions, garnered 46.9% of the vote in the 3rd Congressional District, followed by Kent, 44, with 38.3%.

Republican Leslie Lewallen, 49, a Camas City Council member, who campaigned as a more electable conservative Republican than Kent, received 12.4%. John Saulie-Rohman, an Independent, collected 2.3%.

The 3rd district is in southwest Washington and spans seven counties: Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, Pacific, Wahkiakum, and Skamania counties and a touch of Thurston County. It includes Vancouver, just north of Portland, rural areas with ties to timber and agriculture, and communities around Willapa Bay on the Pacific Coast.

In 2022, Gluesenkamp Perez, an auto repair shop owner and political neophyte, beat Kent by 2,629 votes, to win a Republican-held seat in a district that former president Donald Trump won.

Kent, an Army Special Forces veteran, advanced beyond the primary that year by beating six-term Republican Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, who endured backlash for voting to impeach Trump after the former presidents supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Last time around, Kent leaned in on election fraud conspiracies, spoke loudly for a national ban on abortion and fully embraced Trump  moves that may have cost him votes from moderate Republicans and independents. In this cycle, there are signs hes focusing his message more on areas like the economy, immigration and crime.

4th District

Newhouse, who has served in Congress since 2015, appeared positioned to advance but will face a difficult challenge to retain his job.

As of Tuesday, Sessler led with 29.8%, an improvement from the 12% he collected in his unsuccessful bid for this seat in 2022. Newhouse held the second spot with 25% and Smiley, the last candidate to enter the race, had 19.5%.

Democrats are unlikely to have a candidate on the ballot in November as their top finisher Mary Baechler, was fourth with 15%.

Newhouse, like Herrera Beutler, was one of 10 GOP House members who voted to impeach Trump. Hes one of only two of those lawmakers still serving in the House.

Trump endorsed both Sessler and Smiley, calling Newhouse a pathetic RINO  short for Republican in name only.

Two years ago, Newhouse, whose background is in farming, faced six Republican challengers in the primary, most targeting him for not backing Trump. He finished second in the primary that year with 25.5% and went on to get two-thirds of the vote en route to winning in November.

Sessler, a Navy veteran and businessman, founded a company called HomeTask. Smiley became an advocate for veterans after her husband was blinded in an explosion while serving in the Army in Iraq.

The J-shaped 4th Congressional district covers much of central Washington, stretching from the Canadian border to the Oregon state line. Its southern section includes the heavily agricultural Yakima Valley, the Yakama Indian Reservation, and Tri-Cities, which are a regional hub. Further north, the district covers Moses Lake, East Wenatchee, small towns east of the North Cascades and part of the Colville Reservation.

5th District

Republican Michael Baumgartner and Democrat Carmela Conroy are leading in the 5th Congressional District, as of Tuesday night.

Baumgartner had 28.1% of the vote while Conroy had 19.7%.

Eleven candidates threw their names in the race to succeed U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who announced in February that she would not seek reelection. McMorris Rodgers has represented the reliably Republican district that covers eastern Washington since 2005.

Following Baumgartner and Conroy, the next candidate with the most votes was Republican Jacquelin Maycumber, who is a representative in the Washington state House. She had just over 12% of votes. Democrat Bernadine Bank had just under 12%.

Baumgartner is in his second term as Spokanes treasurer and served as a state senator before that. He said his biggest issue this election is securing the nations southern border with Mexico, which he blamed for rising crime and a surge in illicit fentanyl.

Conroy was a foreign service officer for almost 25 years. Before that, she worked as Spokanes deputy prosecuting attorney. She has said she wants to focus on the federal farm bill if elected  a sprawling piece of legislation that guides agricultural policy and food aid programs.

6th District

After the first ballot count of all six counties in the 6th Congressional District, Randall, a Democratic state senator, and MacEwen, a Republican state senator, led in the top-two primary for the districts open U.S. House seat. As of Tuesday night, Randall had won 33.3% of the vote and MacEwen 30.5%.

Randall ran her campaign to the left of state Public Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz, a Democrat endorsed by U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer who has held the seat since 2013. Franz is close behind Randall and MacEwen at 25.7%.

In a statement, Randall said shes really encouraged by the early returns.

Ive been overwhelmed and overjoyed by the outpouring of grassroots support, she said, adding a shoutout to Democratic U.S. Sen Patty Murray for her endorsement.

Franz, who was running for governor before Kilmer announced he wouldnt seek reelection last November, was criticized for appearing opportunistic by jumping over to the congressional race and the contest has been contentious at times.

In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, Franz said the race was too close to call and referenced money from cryptocurrency billionaires supporting Randall.

Out-of-state super PACs spent over $2.4 million to buy this seat, Franzs statement said. I encourage everyone to check to see if their ballot has been accepted, and please reach out to our team if youd like to help us cure ballots to ensure every vote is counted.

Republicans havent won the U.S. House seat in the 6th Congressional District since 1964.

Correction: An earlier version of this story mistakenly referred to Randall and MacEwen as state representatives on one reference. They are state senators.
A medical employee prepares a resuscitation bay at Beirut's Rafik Hariri Hospital's emergency room, now known as the Red Zone or Tirage Zone, which is reserved for severe injury casualties in case of an all-out war between Israel and pro-Iranian Hezbollah. Stockpiling medical supplies and planning evacuations, hospitals are bracing for the worst, compensating for resource shortages by drawing on their experience from previous conflicts. Marwan Naamani/dpa

Amid growing fears of a full-scale war between Israel and the Lebanese pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement, hospitals across Lebanon have started gearing up for an emergency, despite the health sector already suffering from a profound economic crisis.

According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, hospitals in the country have supplies for around four months.

There are areas in which we are clearly not as well prepared as we would like to be, Lebanese Health Minister Firas Abiad told dpa on Wednesday.

Abiad also raised concerns about the state of the Lebanese population's mental health, which has deteriorated in the past few days.

"When the Israeli fighter planes break the sound barrier flying low over Beirut, it reminds the population of previous catastrophes: the [1975-90] civil war or the port explosion," Abiad said. The explosion on August 4, 2020, destroyed Beirut's port, killed more than 200 people and injured around 6,000.

The fighter-jet noises, which often sound like huge explosions and shake buildings, cause no physical harm, but do cause psychological trauma, Abiad said, adding that anxiety among the population has increased as well.

According to Abiad, the health sector is already under pressure. Since 2019, the Mediterranean country has been in the worst economic crisis in its history.

Due to the crisis, around 30% of doctors and nurses have already left the country. Many hospitals are only equipped with a minimal supply. Some of them work on the principle of just enough, said Abiad.

Dr Jihad Saadeh, director of the Rafik Hariri Governmental Hospital, the largest in the country, told dpa they have been preparing themselves since October 7, when the war in Gaza started.

He stressed that a "mass casualty incident" (MCI) plan had been prepared, in the event the number of patients exceeds the resources normally available.

He stressed that the only worry was if the hospital is overwhelmed by victims, its supplies might run out in few days, especially if Beirut's port and airport are closed due to a wide-scale war.

After Israel's killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut last week, Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah announced retaliation against Israel.

There are fears of a major attack on Israel by Hezbollah along with Iran and its allies in the region.

Iran and the Palestinian militant Hamas movement have blamed Israel for the killing of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in the Iranian capital Tehran. Israel has not yet publicly commented on this accusation.

A medical employee prepares a resuscitation bay at the emergency room of Beirut's Rafik Hariri Hospital now recalled as the Red Zone or Tirage Zone, which is dedicated to severe injury casualties in case of an all-out war between Israel and pro-Iranian Hezbollah. Stockpiling medical supplies and planning evacuations, hospitals are bracing for the worst, compensating for resource shortages by drawing on their experience from previous conflicts. Marwan Naamani/dpa

A view of the emergency room at Beirut's Rafik Hariri Hospital now recalled as the Red Zone or Tirage Zone, which is dedicated to severe injury casualties in case of an all-out war between Israel and pro-Iranian Hezbollah. Stockpiling medical supplies and planning evacuations, hospitals are bracing for the worst, compensating for resource shortages by drawing on their experience from previous conflicts. Marwan Naamani/dpa

A medical employee prepares a resuscitation bay at the emergency room of Beirut's Rafik Hariri Hospital now recalled as the Red Zone or Tirage Zone, which is dedicated to severe injury casualties in case of an all-out war between Israel and pro-Iranian Hezbollah. Stockpiling medical supplies and planning evacuations, hospitals are bracing for the worst, compensating for resource shortages by drawing on their experience from previous conflicts. Marwan Naamani/dpa
NEW YORK  In four months, the cost to taxpayers for a private law firm to represent senior mayoral adviser Timothy Pearson in sexual harassment and retaliation claims filed against him by four current and former cops, including an NYPD chief, has climbed to more than $50,000, the Law Department confirmed to the New York Daily News.

As of late Monday, the city has shelled out $53,982 to the law firm Wilson Elser to represent Pearson in the lawsuits filed by cops assigned to the Mayors Municipal Services Assessment unit in 2022 and 2023, according to a Law Department tally.

Retired Sgt. Roxanne Ludemann filed her suit against Pearson on March 21, followed by retired Sgt. Michael Ferrari on April 17, active duty Lt. George Huang on June 6 and active duty Deputy Chief Milt Marmara on July 30.

So far, John Flannery, the Wilson Elser lawyer handling the cases for Pearson, has filed two boilerplate legal responses, known as answers, to the Ludemann and Ferrari lawsuits. No responses have been filed in the Huang and Marmara cases.

Taxpayers shouldnt be spending one dime to protect someone who has egregiously violated city rules, Brooklyn Councilman Lincoln Restler said Tuesday. In light of deeply troubling allegations against Tim Pearson, he should have been placed on a leave  but no proper investigation was conducted and instead the mayor decided Pearson deserves a free white-shoe defense attorney.

The Law Department determined earlier this year Pearson was entitled to city-funded legal representation in all four cases because it said the accusations against him relate to his official duties. However, instead of having city lawyers represent him, the Law Department allowed Pearson to be repped by Wilson Elser at no personal cost to him due to a conflict in the agency representing Ludemann in a separate case.

Ludemann alleges Pearson, a public safety adviser to Mayor Eric Adams known to wield significant power in his administration, verbally harassed her multiple times and caressed her arm during a Dec. 1, 2022, office gathering. When she rebuffed him, he blocked her promotion in retaliation, court papers say. Ferrari and Huang say they backed up her allegations and were also marooned in dead-end assignments.

Marmaras lawsuit alleges Pearson retaliated again him after he fought to get Ludemann promoted. Marmara claims he repeatedly notified Bernard Adams, the mayors brother, and a roster of high-level administration officials of Pearsons conduct, but that they did nothing.

During an early May hearing, Restler sharply questioned administration officials on why they didnt delve more aggressively into Ludemanns allegations. The mayors lawyer Lisa Zornberg demanded he be censured, but Council Speaker Adrienne Adams rebuffed the demand.

When asked Tuesday, Mayor Adams declined to say when he first learned of the allegations against Pearson.

When it comes down to the question you asked me about Tim Pearson, thats under review, and I dont want to do anything to interfere with the review, and let that review take its course, he said.

Neither Adams nor his press office would say what review he was referencing. The city Department of Investigation is conducting a probe of the allegations, which it opened in June.

The NYPD Internal Affairs Bureau has also been conducting an investigation that Flannery has claimed is directed at Marmara and the three other plaintiffs rather than Pearson.

Three of the lawsuits also name Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey and Internal Affairs Inspector Joseph Profeta. Marmaras lawsuit names NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell, but not Profeta.

_____
Is it legal to record conversations in Colorado? What to know about the state's laws

Is it legal to record a conversation if the person you're recording doesn't know? Different states have different laws on the matter.

Colorado is one of 37 one-party consent states, according to recordinglaw.com, meaning that only one party to the conversation has to consent to the creation of a recording. That can include your own consent if you are part of the conversation. However, it is illegal to record a conversation you weren't part of unless the conversation is in public, where you have no legal expectation of privacy, or you make at least one participant aware that you're recording.

Similarly, the Centennial State's privacy laws prohibit anyone from knowingly observing or taking any visual images of another persons body without consent in situations where the subject of the filming or photography has a reasonable expectation of privacy, according to the Reporter's Committee for Freedom of the Press.

That law does not apply to security cameras in public areas filming public places with no legal expectation of privacy.

Examples of public places include a park bench, a table at a restaurant, or on public transit.

A voice recorder, digital camera and laptop open to chieftain.com.

How does Colorado's law differ from other states?

Some states, such as California and Washington, are two-party consent states, meaning it is illegal to record a conversation without the consent of all parties involved.

Recording a conversation without all parties' consent in those states can lead to criminal consequences, such as fines and possible jail time, as well as legal liability to a potential lawsuit. Additionally, any illegally obtained recordings would be inadmissible in court.

Can you record police activity in Colorado?

The Colorado Legal Defense Group specifically notes that private citizens may record police officers in Colorado without their consent as long as they do not interfere with the lawful performance of their duties. Police may not take your phone or camera unless you consent, they have a warrant, or "when exigent circumstances exist such that the peace officer believes it is necessary to save a life or when the peace officer has a reasonable, articulable, good-faith belief that seizure of your device is necessary to prevent the destruction of the evidentiary recording while a search warrant is obtained."

Recordinglaw.com states that this law does not give you the right to break other laws, such as trespassing or obstruction, while recording.

Can you record public officials?

Generally, it is considered a First Amendment right to record public officials. However, that does not apply to Colorado courts. Under Colorado Judicial Branch Chief Justice Directive 23-02, any recording other than a formal recording of a proceeding without express permission of the court is banned, and those who violate the directive may be subject to contempt of court proceedings.

Can you record phone calls between Colorado and a two-party consent state?

While it's best practice to gain the consent of all parties in that situation, the law of the state where the recording is made generally takes precedence, according to recordinglaw.com. Federal law also requires only one party's consent. Therefore, if you are in a one-party state, there is no need to get everyone's consent, just a single party.

Can you disclose an illegally obtained recording?

Using or disclosing information obtained either by overhearing or recording conversations or by reading or copying electronic communications without at least one partys consent is a felony, if there is reason to know the information was obtained illegally, according to Colorado Revised Statutes.

Exemptions and exceptions

In the Colorado Revised Statutes, Colorado specifically creates an exemption for news media from its eavesdropping and wiretapping statutes, stating that its laws are not to be interpreted to prevent a news agency, or an employee thereof, from using the accepted tools and equipment of that news medium in the course of reporting or investigating a public and newsworthy event.

Journalists are also likely protected from legal consequences for the publication of an illegally obtained recording, as long as they were not involved in the creation of the conversation and the matter is of public concern and truthful, according to the reporter's committee, which cited Bartnicki v. Vopper.

In the 2001 US Supreme Court case, an unidentified person intercepted and recorded a cell phone conversation between the chief union negotiator for a Pennsylvania high school union and the union president during a collective bargaining agreement with the school board.

After the parties accepted a nonbinding arbitration proposal generally favorable to the teachers, a radio commentator played a tape of the intercepted conversation on his public affairs talk show in connection with news reports about the settlement, leading to a lawsuit by the recorded parties against the commentator.

In a 6-3 decision, the court ruled that the First Amendment protects the disclosure of illegally intercepted communications by parties who did not participate in the illegal interception as long as the matter is of public interest.

What are the penalties for violating Colorado recording laws?

Generally, disclosure of information obtained illegally and violations of the state's wiretapping statute are both felonies punishable by a fine of between $1,000 and $100,000 and one to two years in jail, according to the reporter's committee.

Recording communications from a cordless telephone, however, is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and six to 18 months in jail.

Violations of the eavesdropping statute and the states hidden camera law are misdemeanors, carrying a sentence of up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.

According to the reporter's committee, Colorado does not generally authorize civil lawsuits against violators, except in cases where police officers interfere with the right to regard or retaliate against an individual for recording an incident involving an officer.

Questions, comments, or story tips? Contact Justin at jreutterma@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @jayreutter1. Support local news, subscribe to the Pueblo Chieftain at subscribe.chieftain.com.

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Can you record conversations in Colorado? Here's what the law says
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Evacuation orders have been made in Baker County, Oregon after the Town Gulch Fire grew significantly on Tuesday.

Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire in part to help redirect state resources to help fight it. The timber-burning fire is proving difficult as it crosses steep, rocky landscapes as temperatures remain in the mid-90s, the Oregon State Fire Marshals Office said in a release.

As the Oregon fire season continues, we face another fire in tough terrain and conditions, Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. Our teams are working hard to protect structures, doing their best to keep fires away from communities. We are asking everyone to stay vigilant to prevent sparking a wildfire.

The Town Gulch Fire in Baker County prompted officials to issue evacuation orders. August 6, 2024 (courtesy Baker County Sheriffs Office).

Officials said the fire sparked Monday eight miles northwest of Richland and has been steadily growing ever since. It began to threaten structures on Tuesday, prompting the conflagration act and OFSM to mobilize its Blue Incident Management Team and four structural task forces.

The Baker County Sheriffs Office announced Level 1, 2 and 3 evacuations at the following areas:

Level 3 (GO NOW): now includes the area north of Sparta Lane and the Idaho Power line, east of Shanghai Creek and Sparta Butte Road and the 7735 Road that runs north and south, south of Fizz Spring and McBride Campground, and west of the 77 Road.

Level 2 (BE SET): south of Dempsey Creek, Basin Creek, Spring Creek, and Fuller Creek. West of the forest boundary line near Carson and Halfway, north of New Bridge and Thorn Gulch, east of Tackle Gulch and Gem Mine Road.

Level 1 (BE READY): includes New Bridge, in the Halfway area from the forest boundary line down to western edge of Halfway to Carson.

Officials are encouraging residents to sign up for emergency notifications via this website. The public is also encouraged to do their part to prevent wildfires whenever possible.

The cause of Town Gulch Fire and its exact size is not currently known.

This is a developing story. KOIN 6 News will update this article if 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 KOIN.com.
PepsiCo's North American drinks division has opened a new warehouse and distribution centre in Smyrna, Tennessee.

The food and beverage giant said the distribution site is its second largest in the country and largest in the southeast.

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, PBNA south division president Heather Hoytink said in a statement.

The circa 400,000 square-foot Smyrna site has office spaces and a climate-controlled warehouse.

Just Drinks has asked PepsiCo to confirm how much the group invested into the site.

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 eight years, a PepsiCo spokesperson said.

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.

Last month, PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said that the US consumer was showing signs of being much more price conscious and that demand for the group's products had been suffering after years of price hikes.

The Mountain Dew owner reported that its North America division saw volumes fall 3% year-on-year in the second quarter as a result of faltering demand.

The PepsiCo chief executive stressed the US consumers hunt for value is the problem to address.

He said: I think once we address that situation, we will be back in growth, and we feel pretty good about the tools and the resources we have and the actions that were taking and were quite encouraged by [the] recent performance of the business.

In the second quarter, the company generated organic revenue growth of 1.9% to $22.5bn, while operating profit jumped year-on-year from $3.66bn to $4.05bn.

The companys net income rose from $2.75bn in the second quarter of 2023 to $3.08bn this time around.

"PepsiCo opens its second largest US distribution site" 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.
Lexington residents have more time to get a discount on solar energy panels. Heres how.

The city is extending the deadline for people to sign up for a program that offers incentives for installing solar energy panels on homes.

The Solarize Lexington program walks residents through the process of getting solar panels and provides a discount of up to 15%, the city said in a news release. Federal tax credits can also help defray the costs, according to the city.

In addition to helping save on home energy bills, the city touts solar panels as having the potential to increase property values while reducing a homes carbon footprint and helping the local economy by supporting jobs for installers.

The systems are installed by a company vetted by the city, Solar Energy Solutions.

People who might want to participate have until Sept. 2 to fill out a form expressing interest in the program, the city said. Filling out the form is not a commitment to install solar panels but instead allows the program to begin the process of working with homeowners to find out whether solar panels would be a good fit for their homes.

Those who decide to proceed must sign a contract by Sept. 27, according to the Solarize Lexington website.

In addition to homeowners, the city says non-profit organizations, small businesses and places of worship in Fayette County can also apply.

Grants to help with the cost of installation are available on a first-come, first-served basis for low- and moderate-income homeowners, according to the release.

To qualify, household income must be below 80 percent of the median family income for the area. Thats a threshold ranging from $53,350 for one person to $100,550 for a family of eight, according to the Solarize Lexington website.

Rather than filling out the interest form, people who think they might qualify for a grant should call the citys Division of Community and Resident Services at (859) 300-5300 for pre-screening, according to the website.

To qualify for a grant, homeowners must show proof of income and proof that they live in and own the home.

The city warned that scammers have posed as representatives of Solarize Lexington and emphasized that no one who is with the program will call, visit or reach out online unless you have expressed interest.

Lexingtons only Solarize partners are the Kentucky Solar Energy Society and Solar Energy Solutions, the city said in the news release. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics such as promising rebates or pressure to sign a contract.

Josh Bills, a certified energy manager with the Mountain Association of Berea, told the Herald-Leader last year that potential energy cost savings over the lifespan of a typical solar panel setup could be $20,000 or more, based on the average energy consumption for a Kentucky home.

He said average installation cost for a 5 or 7 kilowatt solar system is about $15,000.

Lexington launches program to encourage solar power. Who qualifies for discounts, grants
Liberty Hill library looks to future with more space

LIBERTY HILL, Texas (KXAN)  Too many people and not enough space. Thats what happening with Liberty Hills public library.

There are so many things we cant do because of space limitations, Library Director Angela Palmer said.

There are major growing pains at the library.

Our operating budget comes from sales tax, so the more our people support local businesses, the better our library is, Palmer added.

Lets continue to grow this small town: Locals excited for new Elon Musk school

The current spot is bursting at its bindings.

Almost 16,000 people come to programs, over 30,000 people come to visit the library, weve had almost 2,000 kids sign up for summer reading, Palmer explained. Thats exactly why the library is ready to leave its current space for a new one. That new site is right here next to Liberty Hill Elementary School, right off Main Street, with plenty of room to grow.

KXAN caught up with a young reader who told us she loved the reading programs. Its those programs the library considers at the heart of what it does.

We really need quiet spaces for people to study, to have book clubs, to do things like that, library board member Lisa Messana said.

The library wants to bridge a gap in a rapidly growing city.

Cedar Park gets first-of-kind state certification to bring more tech jobs to area

We call ourselves the heart of the hill. And we really want to be a hub for our community and thats what we see our new space doing, Palmer added.

Our hopes are that we fulfill everyones needs, Messana said. But if we can even get a fraction closer itd be great.

A new chapter thats still being written.

As of now, there is not a current timeline on when a groundbreaking could take place.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  A nationwide blood shortage is being felt by the American Red Cross. Here in Siouxland, LifeServe Blood Center is asking for help as physicians deal with whats called summertime trauma season.

LifeServe was at MercyOne Tuesday as the need for blood locally is on the rise and numbers of donations seem to decline in the warmer months. The organization is urging all eligible donors to help out, as your donations with LifeServe make a difference for your neighbors.

Some Siouxland school districts to get emergency grants

Our donation population is declining, people are aging out, LifeServe supervisor Jesse Hoffman said Just trying to encourage people to donate blood, getting that younger generation to just realize that blood donation is an honor s.

The next blood drive will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 7 at the Siouxland Community Health Center from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. If you are interested in booking an appointment to help save a life, you can do so 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.
The Angel Moroni statue before being placed on the Star Valley Wyoming Temple. The statue was recently replaced due to damage caused by lightning strikes, according to local media reports. | IRI

Several months ago, lightning struck the Angel Moroni statue atop the Star Valley Wyoming Temple.

On Monday, workers replaced the damaged statue with a fresh one, the Star Valley Independent reported.

The damaged statue was just doing its job.

The Angel Moroni statues that rise on steeples above many temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are equipped with lightning rods.

They literally are designed to attract lightning strikes away from other parts of the temples, including the electrical systems, the Deseret News reported in an in-depth article in 2016.

The angel Moroni statues get hit by lightning all the time, Tyler Wilson, director of special projects at Okland Construction, told the Deseret News in 2009 when the statue on top of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple had to be replaced because of a lightning strike.

Theres a misunderstanding that such strikes are rare, but thats not the case at all, Wilson said.

The recent damage to the temple in Afton, Wyoming, was minimal.

It blackened part of the backside, of the temple, Star Valley Wyoming Temple President Kirk Hathaway told SVI News. You can hardly tell where it is unless youre looking for it. Our temple facilities manager  noticed there was blackening on it, and so it was determined  that we should replace it.

The job took four hours, according to the report.

The church has backup statues ready to replace damaged ones.

Workers repair the damaged statues so they can return to their dual role of protecting the temple and serving as a symbol.

Lightning strikes are rare for the statue on top of the Salt Lake Temple because it isnt the tallest building in downtown, the Deseret News reported this spring.

It was an earthquake that damaged the original Angel Moroni made by Cyrus Dallin. The January 2020 quake knocked the trumpet from the angels hand and accelerated plans to remove the statue and the capstone on which it stands on May 18, 2020.

The Angel Moroni statue is lifted into place on the Salt Lake Temple Tuesday, April 2, 2024. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News

Restorationists used its temporary absence to improve the way the horn is attached so that it will not fall again. Workers also removed a small amount of rust from the metal armature inside the statue. The metal is covered by thin-gauge copper and topped with new 14-carat gold leaf.

A crane lifted it back into place in April after a four-year absence.

The statue is in incredible condition, said Emily Utt, a Church Historic Sites curator.
Severe flash floods closed roads in Ruidoso after storms dumped rain into the burn scar of the still burning South Fork and Salt fires. The National Weather Service is warning of continued flood risk the weekend beginning July 12, 2024. (Photo courtesy of City of Ruidoso)

Drinking water is safe once again for thousands of people in Ruidoso impacted by severe fires and floods.

Monday, the New Mexico Environment Departments Drinking Water Bureau lifted an advisory for the Ruidoso Water System, which supplies water to 19,195 people in the Village of Ruidoso.

Recovery for water services for everyone harmed by the full damage from the South Fork and Salt fires isnt complete. About 900 people in Lincoln County are still advised to not drink the water in their home taps, according to the state.

A drinking water advisory was issued for the areas impacted by the fires on June 18 because flooding in burn scars can lead to water system contamination. The water from taps in bathrooms, kitchens and other faucets for nearly 25,000 people were impacted by the states warning.

Under a drinking water advisory, the state recommends people seek drinking water from alternative sources.

Four precautionary advisories are still in place, all located in Lincoln County, environment department spokesperson Drew Goretzka said. These advisories impact at least 929 people.

At this time, we are not sure when the remaining advisories will be lifted. These water systems were heavily impacted by the fires and floods. These systems may need significant repairs to become fully operational, Goretzka said.

He explained that post fire recovery efforts are different in each situation, but generally involves repairing or replacing infrastructure to make sure the system is stable and maintains water pressure.

In addition, we would collect and analyze water samples to ensure drinking water delivered to consumers is safe, he said.

People affected by the advisories can still use water for washing clothes, dishes and other nondrinking uses. However, the state environment department recommends young children and infants do not bathe from the tap water. Immunocompromised people and anyone with an open wound is advised to do the same.

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Argentine striker Lionel Messi is currently with MLS club Inter Miami. File Photo by Larry Marano/UPI

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- A group of climate change activists vandalized Lionel Messi's mansion on the Spanish island Ibiza, covering its walls with red and black paint.

The incident occurred Tuesday on the island in the Mediterranean Sea. The vandals held a sign that read "Help the planet. Eat the rich. Abolish the police."

Argentina president Javier Milei responded by calling for solidarity with a message posted on X.

"In Spain, communists who want to 'kill the rich and abolish the police to end climate change' vandalized a house belonging to Lionel Messi and his family," Milei wrote.

"I stand in solidarity with the Messi family for this cowardly and delusional event and I ask the government of Pedro Sanchez to guarantee the safety of Argentine citizens living in the Kingdom of Spain.

"Communism is an ideology fostered by envy, hatred and resentment towards the successful. It has no place in the free and civilized world. Long live freedom."

ACTUAMOS Nos ensenan que los poderosos son intocables. Es cierto que la politicas se redactan e interpretan al servicio de quienes mas tienen, atentando directamente contra los derechos del resto de la poblacion. Pero solo son el 1%. pic.twitter.com/wV1kFl03Xc FuturoVegetal (@FuturoVegetal) August 6, 2024

The activists -- from Futuro Vegetal -- posted photos and videos of the vandalism on social media. They also called Messi's mansion "an illegal construction."

Futuro Vegetal defines itself as a "non-violent civil disobedience group that demands that the government divert subsidies from livestock farming to promote socially and ecologically responsible alternatives."

"We are taught that the powerful are untouchable," the Futuro Vegetal group wrote on X. "It is true that policies are written and interpreted to serve those who have the most, directly attacking the rights of the rest of the population. But they are only 1%."

Messi is currently with MLS club Inter Miami, but is recovering from an ankle injury he sustained while playing for Argentina during the Copa America finale.

Inter Miami will host Toronto FC in a Leagues Cup Round of 32 match at 7:30 p.m. EDT Thursday at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
(Getty Images)

A Little Rock physician faces a hearing Thursday before the Arkansas State Medical Board over allegations of sexually abusing a former employee and improperly prescribing opioids to patients.

Dr. Alonzo Williams, a gastroenterologist licensed in Arkansas since 1979, has been accused of a range of misdeeds over the past three decades, from shoddy medical care to sexual misconduct to wrongful death. The medical board has received about two dozen complaints against him since 1993, according to records obtained via the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act. Some complainants have filed medical malpractice lawsuits against him, according to court records.

The complaints to the board havent resulted in disciplinary action so far, and the lawsuits against Williams have repeatedly been dismissed.

The board will hear testimony Thursday from the former employee accusing him of sexual abuse. She is also suing him in federal court, according to records obtained by the Arkansas Advocate.

Williams recent complaints and responses

The number of complaints should have merited further scrutiny from the medical board before now, said Lamar Porter, a Little Rock attorney who has represented plaintiffs in court against Williams.

If hes got as many complaints as [these], why in the world did they not start looking at him more carefully? Porter said. Its not like, Oh this is his only complaint, lets give him the benefit of the doubt.

Williams consistent evasion of consequences for his alleged actions has given him the nickname Dr. Teflon in the legal community, Porter said.

Dr. Williams always seems to get away with everything around here, but hopefully it ends with how he has and continues to treat patients, according to a July 28, 2023 email in board records.

A few medical board members suggested suspending Williams license at their May meeting, citing the sexual misconduct allegations against him, but no one made a motion to do so.

Arkansas law allows the State Medical Board to issue an emergency suspension of a physicians license if the Board receives information indicating that the public health, safety, or welfare requires emergency action. The board suspended the license of another physician accused of sexual misconduct at the May meeting.

The board enlisted another gastroenterologist to review Williams medical records in response to last years complaints about the physicians prescription of opioids.

It is my opinion that Dr. Williams violated the standard of care of the Arkansas Medical Practice Act in providing grossly negligent care by failing to exercise the standard of care in diagnosis, monitoring and treatment that is basically and routinely taught to students in medical school, Dr. Eduardo Tony deMondesert of Fort Smith wrote to the board on Jan. 16.

deMondesert report to ASMB

Williams exposed patients to potentially harmful side effects including opioid addiction disorder by providing both inappropriate and unnecessary treatments for certain medical conditions, deMondesert wrote.

It is curious at least if not overly suspect that ALL of the patients presented with nearly identical symptoms of abdominal pain at a level that did not justify prescribing opioids, deMondesert added.

An April 2023 complaint to the Arkansas State Board of Nursing claims Suzette Siegler, Williams nurse manager, had been writing prescriptions for herself and her family, though the anonymous complainant provided no supporting documentation.

Williams also has been under investigation for Medicaid fraud by the state inspector general since March. The Office of Medicaid Inspector General is investigating allegations that Williams performed certain procedures that were not medically necessary, failed to adequately assess certain beneficiaries before invasive procedures, and billed for services not rendered, according to the offices letter to Williams clinic. All payments have been suspended for Medicaid services provided by him and his clinic.

Questionable prescriptions

The medical board received five complaints in July and August 2023 saying that Williams issued questionable prescriptions to several patients at his clinics, the Arkansas Diagnostic Center and the Gastroenterology and Surgery Center of Arkansas. Both operate out of the same office on Kanis Road, and the latter is also known as the Kanis Endoscopy Center, according to business records with the Arkansas secretary of state.

He is creating addicts and fueling the opioid epidemic, a complainant wrote Feb. 8. The way Dr. Williams operates is, if you come in and get a EGD [esophagogastroduodenoscopy] or Colonoscopy then he will write pain pills. This is known on the streets. Some patients have procedures monthly.

2.8.24 Williams complaint and response

In this and several other emails to the medical board this year, complainants also said they could corroborate Williams sexual abuse of the former employee who is suing him.

The former medical assistant alleges in her complaint that Williams coerced her into an unwanted sexual relationship with him for three years in exchange for extra pay. She also accuses him of medical negligence, according to a copy of the complaint obtained by the Advocate.

Another former employee, Jordana Gardner, alleges as the sole named plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit that she was paid less than other medical assistants because she was not forced to have a quid pro quo sexual relationship with Dr. Williams as her fellow assistants were. Nurse manager Siegler is one of Williams co-defendants.

Gardners case was transferred to federal court in July, and her attorneys have asked the court to transfer it back to Pulaski County Circuit Court, where it was initially filed in April.

Some patients have died under Williams care. In April 2014, two men both stopped breathing immediately after a colonoscopy at Arkansas Diagnostic Center. A few months later, Faye Watkins also stopped breathing after the same procedure and suffered a brain injury but survived, Arkansas Public Media and USA Today both reported in 2018.

Porter represented Watkins and the families of the two men, Charles Creggett and Ronald Smith, in medical malpractice lawsuits that ultimately settled for undisclosed amounts of money.

Also in 2018, Faye Lucas sought treatment from Williams for abdominal pain. She died later that year of septic shock, and her son, Anthony Robinson, claimed in a 2020 lawsuit that Williams was responsible for Lucas death because he showed negligence by not following up after a scan revealed a blocked colon was the source of her pain.

Robinson also complained about Williams to the medical board. Williams told the board Lucas had a non-emergency illness and did not show up at a scheduled follow-up appointment.

Robinson complaint

My question is why is the Board continuing to let this Dr. [sic] kill people and simply brushing it under the rug, Robinson wrote. Is it because all the patients [sic] are black and poor. What if these were white patients.

Pulaski County Circuit Judge Herbert Wright dismissed Robinsons malpractice suit in February 2021 because the statute of limitations had passed, according to court documents.

In Williams responses to past and present complaints against him to the medical board, he has denied the allegations and sometimes said the complainant was mistaken, vindictive or unstable.

This is pure harassment and a vendetta against me, he told the board in response to the Feb. 8 complaint that accused Williams of sexually abusing his former assistant in addition to improper prescribing of pain medications.

Despite the volume of complaints against Williams, the medical board has no authority to discipline a physician for ordinary negligence, Porter said.

That gets into an issue of whether negligence is gross or punitive in nature, willful or wanton, and seldom in malpractice cases does the board find that there has been basically gross malpractice, he said.

Similarly, many of the medical boards responses to people whove complained about Williams contained a version of the following: The board only has the authority to take action against a physicians license if the medical care rendered by the physician rises to the level of gross negligence or ignorant malpractice as defined: It is carelessness or recklessness to a degree that shows utter indifference to the consequences that may result.

Williams declined, through a receptionist at his office, to comment on the medical board hearing or the allegations against him.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story incorrectly identified the source of information about a lawsuit involving allegations of sexual abuse.

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Local authorities brief Putin on Kursk Oblast situation, people being evacuated from border area

Alexei Smirnov, the acting Governor of Russia's Kursk Oblast, has said he briefed Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin overnight on the supposed drone and missile attack on the Russian region and reported that people are being evacuated from the border areas.

Source: Smirnov on Telegram; Russia's Defence Ministry

Details: According to Smirnov, the Russian ruler is "keeping the situation under control" and has promised "comprehensive" support for the region.

The acting governor also claimed that although the situation in Kursk Oblast is "under control", nevertheless evacuation has been organised for residents "from the border areas under fire", with temporary accommodation facilities set up and fully equipped. Doctors from Moscow and St Petersburg have been dispatched to the region.

Russia's Defence Ministry claimed that fighting had erupted in areas of Kursk Oblast directly adjacent to the Russian-Ukrainian border, noting that Russian forces had "prevented the enemy from advancing further into the territory".

Background:

On the morning of 6 August, Smirnov claimed that Ukrainian forces had mounted an attempt to infiltrate the Sudzha and Korenevo districts of Kursk Oblast. "FSB border troops and Russian army soldiers prevented the border from being breached," he added, asking residents to "remain alert".

On the morning of 6 August, local Russian Telegram channels started spreading reports of fighting in the border area of Kursk Oblast. They claimed that Ukrainian forces were advancing on Goncharovka in the Sudzha district with their equipment.

However, the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion (FRL)  volunteer groups consisting of Russians fighting on Ukraine's side  have not reported carrying out any operations in the border area with Russia.

Previously:

In March 2024, the FRL announced that their soldiers had taken full control of the settlement of Tyotkino in Kursk Oblast.

The RVC has carried out similar operations in the Russian Federation.

Following such raids, the volunteers reported having destroyed depots and equipment belonging to Russia's Armed Forces and replenished their own arsenal by capturing equipment from regular Russian army units.

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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Students can visit the Dayton Art Institute for free this Sunday.

The museum is hosting a Back to School event for the community and, with it, students in grades K-12 can see the exhibits on display for free.

There will be numerous activities for students to partake in as well.

How to see award winning artists this week in Springboro

The first 200 students will receive a complementary goodie bag and an iced sweet treat (each of which will be given as students leave the museum).

There will also be a raffle, with the grand prize being a free year-long family membership to the Dayton Art Institute.

For more information on the event, click here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
Billionaire investor and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel played a pivotal role in launching J.D. Vance's venture capital career in 2016.

Thiel, known for his influential presence in Silicon Valley, brought Vance into Mithril Capital Management, a venture capital (VC) firm he founded. The opportunity came shortly after Vance gained national attention for his memoir "Hillbilly Elegy," which portrayed the struggles of the white working class in America's Rust Belt. The memoir's success positioned Vance as a prominent voice in political and social discourse, and Thiel's endorsement further elevated his profile.

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Despite the promising start, Vance's tenure at Mithril was marked by a notable absence. According to former colleagues, Vance rarely, if ever, appeared in the office. One person who worked at Mithril in 2016 told The Wall Street Journal that they never saw Vance at the office during his time there. Another former colleague recalled sporadic sightings of Vance but noted that his focus seemed to be promoting his book rather than engaging in the day-to-day operations of the VC firm.

Neither person recalled any noteworthy deals Vance worked on while at Mithril.

StockStory aims to help individual investors beat the market.

"I don't think he had a long enough career in venture to have demonstrated the successful VC narrative that's being expressed," prominent venture capitalist and Democratic donor David Hornik told The Wall Street Journal.

During his brief stint at Mithril, Vance forged a lasting connection with Thiel, whom he first met at a talk Thiel gave at Yale University in 2011. Vance said Thiel encouraged him to pursue entrepreneurship rather than a career in law.

Trending: These five entrepreneurs are worth $223 billion  they all believe in one platform that offers a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends

According to Politico, Thiel gave Vance $15 million for his 2022 campaign in Ohiothe biggest contribution ever to a single Senate race.

After leaving Mithril in 2017, Vance joined Revolution, an investment firm started by AOL co-founder Steve Case. Former co-workers remember Vance's impact on the firm  he was lead partner or co-lead on 14 deals, including some in defense and artificial intelligence, one person told the Wall Street Journal.

Story continues

Vance, who eventually served on the Revolution board, also invested in food production startup AppHarvest, which developed indoor farms in Appalachia. Shortly after Vance left Revolution, AppHarvest faced five lawsuits for misleading regulators and investors and eventually filed for bankruptcy in 2023.

Vance left Revolution to co-found Narya, an Ohio-based venture firm. He received significant backing from Thiel.

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This article Peter Thiel Launched J.D. Vance's Venture Capital Career, But A Former Colleague Says He Was Rarely In The Office originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Several homeless camps like this one were seen in Des Moines Wednesday, July 31, 2024, as volunteers conducted a point-in-time survey of Polk County's unhoused population.

(Jesus asked), Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers? He said, The one who showed him mercy. Jesus said to him, Go and do likewise.

 Parable of the Good Samaritan, Luke 10:25-37 (NRSV)

As clergy who are commissioned to publicly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and care for all Gods people, it is our responsibility to speak out in the face of the blatant injustice happening right outside our doors. The gospel of Jesus Christ is clear about how we are to live as people of faith in the world: we are compelled to work for the good of our neighbors and to lift up those who are overlooked and marginalized.

Recently, the actions of the Des Moines City Council in relation to our citys most vulnerable are most concerning. In prioritizing the interests of privileged individuals and entities  those who deal in terms of financial gain and economic potential  the council has neglected the voices of our neighbors who are crying out for justice and for their very survival.

The proposed ordinance, which seeks to amend municipal code, criminalizes sleeping in a public place (including inside a vehicle) and gives law enforcement license to seek out individuals camping and charge them with a simple misdemeanor, punishable by a fine or community service.

More: Fines for sleeping outside are wrong; Des Moines can do better for homeless persons

This proposed ordinance criminalizes the basic human need for sleep, creating a sinister divide between those who have the security of shelter and those who are forced to sleep without it. Such legislation starkly illustrates the city's lack of compassion and concern for residents without financial influence  j the people who survive day to day in a city hostile to their survival.

As faith communities rooted in downtown Des Moines, many with over a century of commitment to serving in our beloved city, we are steadfast supporters, both with financial gifts and volunteers, of local organizations dedicated to aiding the unhoused. Our buildings are home to free daily meal programs, outreach ministries, service groups and support meetings. Our dedication to caring for our unhoused neighbors is unwavering, and together we stand firmly against measures that seek to criminalize or marginalize them.

More: 'I'm scared every time I lay down': Homeless Iowans fear Des Moines' proposed camping ban

We call on the City Council and all city government leaders to reconsider this proposed ordinance and to engage in meaningful dialogue with all community members, particularly those directly affected by homelessness and those who work tirelessly day after day to find solutions. We urge a compassionate, comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness in our city  one that respects the dignity of every individual and seeks sustainable, supportive solutions.

In Christs Service,

Bishop Kennetha J. Bingham-Tsai, Iowa Espicopal Area | United Methodist Church

Rev. Debbie Griffin, Pastor | Downtown Disciples, Des Moines

Rev. Minna Bothwell, Pastor | Capitol Hill Lutheran Church (ELCA), Des Moines

Bishop Amy L. Current, Southeastern Iowa Synod | Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)

Rev. Ryan Arnold, Senior Pastor | St. Johns Lutheran Church (ELCA), Des Moines

Rev. Stephanie Stark, Associate Pastor | St. Johns Lutheran Church (ELCA), Des Moines

AJ Olson, Pastoral Intern | St. Johns Lutheran Church (ELCA), Des Moines

The Very Reverend Nicola Dance Chase, Dean | St. Pauls Episcopal Cathedral, Des Moines

The Rev. Jean Davis, Deacon | St. Pauls Episcopal Cathedral, Des Moines

Rev. Dr. Jonathan Whitfield, Pastor | Corinthian Baptist Church, Des Moines

Fr. Nipin Scaria, Rector | Saint Ambrose Catholic Cathedral, Des Moines

Rev. LaTonya Calderon, Pastor | First United Methodist Church, Des Moines

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Camping ban ordinance would rob homeless Iowa residents of dignity
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Residents are invited to attend several events throughout August in honor of National Farmers Market Week.

Sunset at the Market

2nd Street Market will host Sunset at the Market, where attendees can participate in tastings, workshops and culinary demonstrations.

There will also be over 50 vendors offering prepared foods, kitchen staples, flowers, produce, desserts, artisan wares and more, as well as live music.

2nd Street Market Manager Lynda Suda remarked on the importance of farmers markets.

Farmers markets are special because you can actually connect with the people who ensure your food gets from their farms to your fork. The bounty of healthy food, expertise, care and economic impact of local growers is definitely something to celebrate.

The event is from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Nourishing Montgomery County

On Saturday, Aug. 10, residents are also invited to the Levitt Pavilion, which will host Nourishing Montgomery County.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature cooking demonstrations, kids activities, food samplings and a resource fair.

The Greater Dayton RTA will run a shuttle from the 2nd Street Market to the pavilion.

More information about Nourishing Montgomery County is available here.

A full list of activities from the 2nd Street Market is available here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  A Colorado Springs mother says she was questioned over her 5-year-old daughters disabilities by Southwest Airlines on Sunday, Aug. 4 while trying to pre-board her flight.

Janey Sprouse-Cadenas took four flights to a medical conference in Boston with her daughter, Lucy, who has a rare medical condition and requires extensive care. However, the disorder is not physically visible. Janey says that they were questioned about the significance of Lucys disorder in multiple different cities by Southwest Airlines employees.

I shouldnt have to hold a big sign and shout it from the rooftops of whats wrong with my daughter for her to get the help and support that she needs, said Janey.

Over the weekend, Janey and Lucy traveled from Colorado Springs to Boston on four different flights. Lucy has a rare medical condition, but you wouldnt be able to tell just from looking at her.

Janey says in three different cities, Southwest Airlines employees questioned the significance of Lucys disorder, before letting them pre-board.

It was such an issue that even the other employees, the stewardess, and other people came and said, You need to make a complaint, that wasnt okay,' she added.

FOX21 News reached out to David McDivitt, an attorney and COO of McDivitt Law Firm, who weighed in on the situation.

The disability doesnt need to be visible to somebody else, it needs to be a self-identified disability, and there is room for abuse with that, said McDivitt.

Janey said she was questioned by employees: Why did she need pre-boarding? What qualified her for pre-boarding, the employees asked according to Janey.

Which again, is not something youre allowed to ask, Janey pointed out.

Southwest does have a policy against this sort of question, the complete policy about accommodation can be found in the link above.

Laws regarding pre-boarding for air travelers with disabilities also state that pre-boarding can be given to anyone who may only need a specific seat assignment but also covers passengers who may need additional time to board, be seated, or for stow accessibility.

It was one of those situations like where somebody is like scanning you or watching you and almost like judging, is how it felt, and analyzing her, thats the way I felt, is him analyzing why is she needing this?' Janey said.

McDivitt said the law requires airlines to comply with accessibility procedures without question or medical proof.

If you go to a gate agent and you self-identify as somebody with a disability, the airlines are not allowed to then start asking for medical documentation to support that, said McDivitt.

FOX21 News also reached out to Southwest Airlines to weigh in on the situation: We always strive to meet our customers standards, said Southwest. Our teams will look into this matter, and address any irregularities directly with the customer.

All of this comes after the New York Post reported a California nurse was also kicked off a Southwest flight over her medical condition.

I think it needs to be universal training, and thats just what it comes down to, is education and training. It does not take anything out of anybody to just be kind, said Janey.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL)  From music shows to dinners to exhibit openings, The Museum of North Texas History has hosted almost every event except this one, which turned out to be a love story.

KFDX News at 6 p.m. expanding to one hour

According to a Facebook post on the museums page, a couple made their debut and got engaged at their original first date spot on Saturday, August 3, 2024.

Friends and family accompanied the couple on this very special day.

A hub for community connection: Downtown Wichita Falls Farmers Market celebrating farm-to-market freshness for National Farmers Market Week

In the post, it was said that Drew Franklin and Stephanie Smith had their first date at The Museum of North Texas History but now made it even more special by having their proposal at the same place that started it all.

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A Pierce County man who garnered a large social media following will be involuntarily committed for mental health treatment instead of face charges of stalking and harassing his South Hill neighbors, at least for the time being.

Martin Cabello III, 46, recently was deemed mentally incompetent for a third time to answer to the charges, leading a Pierce County Superior Court judge this week to dismiss the criminal case against him, court records show.

Originally charged in District Court before that case was tossed out and refiled in Superior Court in March 2023, Cabello had faced three counts of stalking, three counts of cyber harassment in violation of a protection order and one count of felony harassment.

The charges were filed after Cabello allegedly violated anti-harassment orders granted to three neighbors who he purportedly accused in online videos of being involved in unfounded crimes, such as child trafficking, rape and murder, charging papers show.

Cabellos mental health became a central focus of the criminal case. He underwent two prior evaluations that reached the same conclusion as his most recent one at Western State Hospital on July 30: As a result of a mental disease or defect, Cabello lacks the capacity to understand the nature of the proceedings against him and to assist in his own defense, court records show.

A court order Monday declared that Cabello had been found incompetent to face the charges and dismissed the criminal case and directed his civil commitment. The order was agreed upon by both the prosecution and Cabellos assigned counsel. Cabellos attorney didnt respond to a message seeking comment.

Mr. Cabellos neighbors went through hell thanks to the wild accusations he made against them. Our office filed criminal charges because of the constant harassment they suffered, Pierce County Prosecuting Attorneys Office spokesperson Adam Faber said in a statement. Now that the competency restoration process has run its course and the criminal case is at its end, the involuntary commitment process will now be handled by the state Attorney Generals Office. Our office will have the option to refile charges if he is restored to competency in the future.

In Washington state, defendants who are found incompetent to stand trial after three periods of restorative mental health treatment are directed to undergo a civil commitment evaluation. In Cabellos case, as someone who has already had inpatient treatment, the commitment can last for up to 72 hours, but evaluators may petition the court indefinitely to extend the commitment for as much as 180 days in between court hearings.

If Cabello is later determined to be fit to stand trial, charges could be refiled regardless of how long he had been in state custody, according to state law.

His latest psychological evaluation, filed in court on Aug. 1, said that Cabello presented with normal speech and thought processes but expressed ongoing grandiose, religious and persecutory beliefs. In particular, he claimed to have started a religion related to devices that capture light in a way that helps individuals see God and angels, and he repeated claims that he had been abused by neighbors, who he believed had been involved in human trafficking and other crimes, according to a licensed psychologists report.

Cabello built a sizable social media audience, frequently posting about living with autism that he reported to have and, some said, inspiring others to lead healthier lives. He currently has more than a half-million followers collectively among X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube accounts believed to belong to him.

It was on social media, where neighbors said Cabello disseminated false accusations about them and endangered their lives. Cabello claimed his neighbors made him kill children and were involved in cartel activity and terrorist organizations, charging papers said. He also reportedly filmed neighbors homes and yelled at them, and allegedly told a live-stream audience that hed pay for assassins to kill or hurt one neighbor.

Cabello purportedly targeted authorities, too. He accused Pierce County sheriffs deputies of covering up human trafficking and said that Prosecuting Attorneys Office personnel were criminals, accessories and accomplices, charging papers showed.

It is worth noting that Mr. Cabello may have demonstrated some improvement in his psychiatric condition this restoration period as he has most often refrained from discussing his delusional beliefs with treatment providers, the most recent psychological evaluation said. However, it appears that his ability to maintain reality-based discussions is contingent on him not being directly asked about his beliefs related to the allegations against him.
Lockhart voters to decide on joining ACC district in November after board approves annexation election call

LOCKHART, Texas (KXAN)  Voters in Lockhart will decide this November on whether theyll join the Austin Community College taxing district.

The ACC Board of Trustees on Monday unanimously approved calling for a special annexation election for the Lockhart Independent School District territory.

PREVIOUS | Lockhart ISD could potentially join the ACC taxing district

This comes after the board in May unanimously certified a petition from residents living in the territory who were interested in adding the ACC annexation item to Novembers ballot. More than 1,000 Lockhart residents signed the petition, according to ACC.

In June, the board was joined by the college administration for a public hearing in Lockhart, where Lockhart community members learned more about potentially entering the colleges taxing district, ACC said in a release.

If Lockhart votes to join the taxing district, students who attend ACC would benefit from in-district tuition rates and fees, including the recently approved ACC Free Tuition pilot program. Residents living within the Lockhart ISD territory would receive in-district benefits immediately if the measure were approved.

ACC trustees approve free tuition pilot program, votes not to increase tuition rates

Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. Early voting runs from Monday, Oct. 21, to Friday, Nov. 1.

ACCs proposed service plan for Lockhart ISD is detailed below:

Phase 1: ACC will work with LISD to provide services on LISD property during evenings and weekends when LISD property is not otherwise in use. The college will offer expanded career and technical workforce offerings as well as collaborate with the school district on the implementation of an Early College High School.

Phase 2: ACC will work with the local community to develop and occupy a 15,000-square-foot to 20,000-square-foot workforce and general education space located in close proximity to Lockhart High School.

Phase 3: ACC will purchase land and develop a permanent facility in the territory to be annexed after consultation with local community, economic, and educational leadership to ensure that the permanent facility meets the emerging and projected needs of 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 KXAN Austin.
Lorin Dennis Killian Sr., who co-founded the Killian Korn snack business with his wife 36 years ago, died Saturday at home in Othello.

He was just three days away from turning 90.

Killian was born in 1934 in Goshen, Idaho, and volunteered for the draft in 1955, serving in the U.S. Army at Fort Lewis.

He married Donna Raylance in the Idaho Falls Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1960 and moved to Othello to operate a dairy with her family.

Lorin Dennis Killian Sr.

The couple had 11 children and called Othello home for 65 years, remaining active members of the LDS church.

They were inspired to make a business out of their annual Christmas tradition of making flavored popcorn for family and friends.

Killian tried a bite, looked at his wife and speculated that people would pay for something so good, according to a company history on Amazon.com.

The Tri-City Herald once reported that they started small, but made Killian Korn a year-round business in 1991 at the request of customers.

They turned a pizza kitchen in what had been the Dairyland Dairy building in Pasco into a commercial kitchen and put their children to work, cranking out Killian Korn in 15-gallon batches.

They mixed it with pecans, walnuts, coconut shavings and a vanilla-butter syrup, selling the largest bags for $4.

Killian, chief cook, once stressed that Killian Korn was not caramel corn in an interview with a Herald reporter.

The trick is in heating the syrup to a temperature below that which would cause the sugar to caramelize, Killian said.

At the time, the Killians were testing their product around the region and enjoying inquiries from distributors.

Today, generations of Killians are employed by the regional juggernaut, which produces popcorn snacks blended with a dazzling array of flavors, such as almond and coconut to black licorice, blue raspberry, caramel apple, snickerdoodle, huckleberry, sweet jalapeno and honey cashew.

Holiday specials add cocoa, marshmallows, peppermint and more to the lineup.

Killian Korn is widely sold in the region at local groceries and beyond Washington state online.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by numerous children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Hillcrest Funerals and Cremation in Kennewick is in charge of arrangements.

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Where the Biden administration has struggled, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has succeeded.

The former schoolteacher turned politician whom Vice President Kamala Harris picked as her running mate in the 2024 presidential race has been able to enact many of the progressive policies President Joe Biden and Harris pitched but failed to get through Congress.

Aided by a Democratic sweep of the state legislature, Walz last year signed a landmark budget that established a generous child tax credit, created a paid family and medical leave program and made college tuition free for certain students, among other measures.

Were pretty sure its going to mean a fairer, more inclusive, better and more prosperous Minnesota, he said upon signing the budget.

The One Minnesota Budget built upon the left-leaning policies that Walz established in the state, including protecting abortion rights and gender-affirming care, investing in affordable housing and instituting clean energy measures.

Republicans, however, have critiqued Walzs efforts, which entail an increase in state spending, as unsustainable and as increasing the burden on families and businesses.

Also, Minnesota was one of the few states to raise taxes in recent years, even though it had large surpluses, the Tax Foundation said. The increases mainly affected businesses and high-earning residents.

Here are some of the progressive measures Walz has enacted as governor:

Child tax credit

Many lower-income Minnesota families can access a state child tax credit, which Walz signed into law last year. The credit, which provides up to $1,750 per kid with no limit on the number of children claimed, is the most generous in the US and is projected to lower child poverty by a third. It is also refundable so families can receive a refund even if they dont owe any tax, though they do need to file a tax return to claim the credit.

The full credit is available to single parents earning $29,500 and couples earning $35,000, and slowly phases out depending on income, filing status and number of children.

More than 215,000 families, with more than 437,000 children, have claimed the credit so far for 2023, Walz said in a statement last week. The average credit was $1,244 per child  totaling more than $545 million.

Free college tuition

Last year, Walz signed a bill into law that made college tuition free for students from Minnesota families who earn less than $80,000 a year.

Between 15,000 and 20,000 students are expected to benefit during the upcoming school year, the first year the program is in effect.

Known as the North Star Promise Scholarship, the program covers the balance of tuition and fees remaining for students after applying other scholarships, grants and stipends that dont have to be paid back. The idea is that students wont have to borrow student loans to pay for tuition and mandatory fees to attend college.

Students who are eligible for a Pell grant, a federal financial aid award for low-income students, may receive additional funds from the state program.

Students must be enrolled at a public two- or four-year college in Minnesota to be eligible for the North Star Promise Scholarship. They are required to be Minnesota residents, but undocumented students who meet certain conditions are also eligible, like they are for other state financial aid awards.

Minnesota is now one of more than 30 states that offer some kind of free tuition program.

Abortion access

Walz has been an advocate for abortion access. In January 2023, he signed into law the Protect Reproductive Options Act, which established the right for people in the state to obtain an abortion after the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade the previous year.

In April 2023, he signed a law protecting people who travel to Minnesota for abortions, and clinicians providing abortion care, from criminal penalties from other states.

Minnesotas policies around abortion make it among the most protective states for abortion access, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research and policy organization that supports abortion rights, with more people expected to travel to the state for care after Iowa implemented a six-week ban in July.

When Harris became the first vice president believed to have visited an abortion clinic while in office, she chose a Planned Parenthood location in Minnesota.

Universal school meals

Students can receive free breakfast and lunch in participating schools after Walz signed a universal school meals bill into law last year, making it the fourth state to enact such a measure.

Nearly 4.3 million more breakfasts and 4.5 million more lunches were served to students last fall compared with the same period in 2022, Walz said in March.

The data is clear: more students are eating breakfast and lunch at school, ensuring they have the food they need to succeed and helping families save money on their grocery bills, Walz said in a statement. This investment is a win for our kids, our families, and the long-term success of our state.

The measure is expected to cost the state about $400 million over two years.

Gender-affirming care

In March 2023, Walz signed an executive order that directed Minnesota agencies to do whatever they could to protect and support Minnesotans seeking gender-affirming health care services.

Gender-affirming care is evidence-based care for people who identify as transgender or nonbinary. Its been deemed medically necessary and has the backing of nearly every major medical association and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than half of states now have laws that restrict such care.

Walzs executive order directed state agencies to study the effectiveness of the care and investigate any health organization that denied it. The order also prohibited Minnesota from cooperating in any investigation by a state that aimed to penalize such care, calling such actions a grave threat to the health of members of the LGBTQ+ community.

We want every Minnesotan to grow up feeling safe, valued, protected, celebrated and free to exist as their authentic versions of themselves, Walz said after signing the order.

The next month, he signed trans refuge legislation that safeguarded access to such care and another law that banned conversion therapy, a discredited practice that aims to change someones understanding of their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Paid family and medical leave

Saying paid family and medical leave is important for the health of the states workforce and future of its economy, Walz signed a bill establishing the program last year. It launches in 2026.

Paid family and medical leave is about investing in the people that made our state and economy strong in the first place, Walz said in a statement. By signing paid family and medical leave into law, were 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.

Individuals will be able to take up to 12 weeks each of medical and family leave, for a combined maximum of 20 weeks in a 12-month period. How much workers will receive during their leave will depend on their pay.

Benefits are paid by the state but are funded through payroll deductions on wages.

Minnesota will be the 13th state to enact such a program.

Affordable housing investments

Walz was praised by housing and homeless advocates for signing a bill last year that provides the largest state investment in housing to date.

More than half of the $1 billion spending package is being used to expand the supply of affordable housing, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The state funds will also provide $150 million in downpayment assistance for first-time homebuyers, which will enable approximately 5,000 Minnesotans to purchase homes, as well as $45 million for a homeless prevention program.

Whether its building new housing infrastructure, providing rental assistance, or ensuring homeownership is an option for all Minnesotans, this bill will have a historic impact on the quality of life in Minnesota and move us towards becoming the best state to raise a family, Walz said in a statement released in 2023 after signing the bill.

The bill also raised the sales tax in the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area by 0.25% to create a permanent funding stream for Minnesota housing programs.

Clean energy policy

Walz oversaw a cutting-edge clean energy policy as governor of Minnesota. As part of a Democratic trifecta in the state House, Senate and governors office, Walz signed a law last year that aims to make 100% of Minnesotas electricity clean by 2040.

The law compels utilities that provide electricity in Minnesota to switch from polluting sources of electricity like coal and natural gas to clean sources, including wind, solar, battery storage, hydropower and clean hydrogen.

Under the law, utilities need to switch to generating 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 and get 80% of the way there by 2030. Minnesotas largest utilities have voiced support for having to move quickly to zero-carbon energy but have also acknowledged the switch will be challenging.

And earlier this summer, Walz signed a separate bill to speed up energy permitting projects in Minnesota and get more clean energy onto the grid. Passing a similar bill at the federal level has been elusive in Congress.

Voting rights for ex-felons

Last year, Walz signed a bill into law that restored voting rights to more than 55,000 formerly incarcerated people in Minnesota.

Minnesota is now one of 23 states that automatically restores voting rights following incarceration of those who have been convicted of a felony, according to the Voting Rights Lab.

The passage of the bill followed several years of legal challenges to the constitutionality of the states former law, which prohibited people who were on felony supervision or probation from voting even if their prison term has been completed or they have never spent a day in prison.

Period products in school bathrooms

Walz signed a bill last year that mandates that school districts and charter schools provide free menstrual products in all restrooms  for both girls and boys  regularly used by students in grades 4 to 12.

The measure has led some Republicans to label Walz Tampon Tim for his support of transgender students.

Not including a reference to girls was deliberate. In a state House committee hearing last year, the bills sponsor, Democratic Rep. Sandra Feist, said Not all students who menstruate are female. We need to make sure all students have access to these products.

This story has been updated with additional information.

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BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)  In an effort to help bring up Louisianas literacy rates, a new law is going into effect that will hold children back in the third grade if they are not meeting reading requirements.

Testing of students began last year, while this will be the first school year where children will actually be made to repeat the grade if they arent passing the tests. The law was passed by the legislature in 2023.

Throughout the school year, third grade students in public schools will take literacy screener tests. If they score in the well below category, which about 30% of third grade students did last year, they will be put into extra tutoring and support programs in hopes of later testing high enough to advance to fourth grade.

The screeners throughout the year give the teachers good information to drive instruction and it gives the families good information, so that they can be well informed and support their kid at home, said State Superintendent Cade Brumley.

See when, where the East Baton Rouge Parish mayoral candidate forum will happen

If a student gets a well below score after three tests, additional tutoring and doesnt meet any of the excused reasons  then they will have to repeat the third grade.

The state saw a 10% jump up last year for K-3 students in their end of the year screeners. Now, about 54% of students are reading on grade level for that age group. Brumley said teachers have been well invested in training to get literacy rates up.

These are 50, 60, 70-hour programs with competency tests at the end and so, teachers in Louisiana have really recommitted to the science of reading, understanding that and understanding how to instruct students, Brumley said

The legislature invested $30 million into intensive tutoring during the school day and increased the cap of potential scholarships through the Steve Carter Literacy Program for after school help.

Brumley said he hopes with a number of new programs going into place that the number of students who would have to be held back in third grade continues to decline. He also said for the students who do have to repeat the grade will be taken care of to get them on reading level, so they are more successful in the rest of their educational career.

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Lynda Van Davis, Greenfield's counsel and head of external affairs, announces that the company is "ceasing all plans" to build a grain export facility in the historic Black community of Wallace, La., in St. John the Baptist Parish, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Jack Brook)

WALLACE, La. (AP)  Residents of a historic Black community in Louisiana who've spent years fighting against a massive grain export facility set to be built on the grounds where their enslaved ancestors once lived appear to have finally halted the project.

A representative from the company, Greenfield Louisiana LLC, announced during a public hearing on Tuesday evening that the company is ceasing all plans to construct a grain export facility in the middle of the town of Wallace in St. John the Baptist Parish.

After a moment, opponents of the project broke out in cheers and began clapping and hugging each other.

Im still obviously in disbelief  I cant believe this is happening, but Im ecstatic and all praise to the ancestors, said Joy Banner, a Wallace resident and one of the most vocal opponents of the project. She and her sister, Jo, founded The Descendants Project to preserve the communitys heritage.

The companys announcement signaled a rare win for a community in a heavily industrialized stretch of the Mississippi River known as Cancer Alley for its high levels of pollution. Wallace is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of New Orleans.

I think all of the fighting  it is coming from the love and the passion for our communities we have here along the river, and to show the world we can and you should fight, Banner said. We are recognizing that we do have power  that power comes from the love we have for our community.

Earlier this year, the Banner sisters nonprofit purchased a plantation which had been the site of one of the largest slave rebellions in American History, the 1811 German Coast Uprising. They plan to transform it into an educational space.

The Army Corps of Engineers had already found the 222 acre (90 hectare) facility, could adversely impact cultural heritage sites in Wallace, and was tasked with reviewing Greenfields application.

Army Corps representative Brad LaBorde said his agency had not been informed in advance of the companys unexpected decision to cancel plans for the facility.

We dont know exactly what that means, LaBorde said. We still have an active permit application so, if it is Greenfields intention to no longer pursue the project, then we would ask they formally submit a withdrawal to us so that we can conclude the review.

Lynda Van Davis, Greenfields counsel and head of external affairs, said the long delay in government approval for the project has been an expensive ordeal, adding that she did not have an answer for when the company would submit a formal withdrawal to the Army Corps.

This has been a difficult ride the whole time, we didnt wake up yesterday and say were done, Van Davis said. We said well stay in the fight a little bit longer, because weve become friends with this community. Unfortunately, how long are we supposed to stay in this fight?

The Army Corps had found the project could affect historic properties in Wallace, including the Evergreen, Oak Alley and Whitney plantations. There also remained the possibility that the area contained burial sites for the ancestral Black community.

Some community members had supported the project, believing it would bring jobs to their town, even as opponents of the facility said tourism surrounding cultural heritage was already a thriving industry that deserved greater investment.

I was looking forward to economic development in my community  jobs, new businesses, just all around better living for my community, said Nicole Dumas, 48, a Wallace resident, who supported the project.

But the evening became a celebration for others. Angelica Mitchell, 53, held back tears as she took in the companys announcement. Mitchell is still recovering from treatment for a rare form of cancer which had attacked her pancreas, but she chose to attend the public hearing despite her health struggles. The facility would have been built within a few hundred feet of her home.

To hear that they are backing out, I am so excited, my prayers have been answered, because Ive been praying for this for the last three years, Mitchell said. Ive been asking God, just dont let this plant come into our community. I dont want this for our children.



This story has been corrected to show the hearing took place on Tuesday, not Monday.

____

Jack Brook 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.
LYNCHBURG, Va. (WFXR)  Lynchburg Police have announced the arrest of a man accused of multiple child sex crimes after an investigation that started in July 2024.

In July, cyber tips were received by the Southern Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (SOVA-ICAC) in Bedford alleging that an internet account was suspected of containing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

Charles Lee Spain Jr. sentenced to 25 years for 2023 murder of wife in Wytheville

SOVA-ICAC identified a suspect, 35-year-old David Richard Jennings of Lynchburg. After obtaining a search warrant, investigators confirmed the presence of CSAM on an account and Jennings residence in Lynchburg. The case was then handed over to Lynchburg PD.

Detectives with LPD obtained additional warrants for Jennings home and vehicle and on August 6, conducted a search with the assistance of the Bedford County Sheriff. During the search, multiple electronic devices were seized.

David Richard Jennings has been arrested and charged with the following:

One count of Possession of Child Pornography.

Four counts of Second or Subsequent Possession of Child Pornography.

Jennings is currently being held at the Blue Ridge Regional Jail without bond.

Check back with WFXR News for more local crime stories in the future.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
LYNCHBURG, Va. (WFXR)  EnCircles Minnick Schools are investing in the future of local students with disabilities by announcing the opening of a new school in Lynchburg on 12th Street.

EnCircles Minnick Schools are special education day schools that serve students ages 5 to 22 in a supportive environment. These schools help students learn about their behaviors and navigate challenging situations while providing necessary academic support. Minnick Schools offer exceptional programs and serve children with autism spectrum disorders, as well as intellectual and other various disabilities.

Our Minnick Schools footprint continues to expand across Virginia, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to support students in the Lynchburg area, said enCircle CEO Ray Ratke. The investment in our new, private day school for students with learning challenges represents the confidence of EnCircles leadership in the quality and potential of our Minnick Schools.

Roanoke College grad stops in Salem during cross-country bike ride supporting disability organizations

The new Lynchburg Minnick Schools principal will be Brian Wray, who has served as a teacher, principal, and Director of Instruction for Lynchburg City Schools. Wray will work alongside an exceptional instruction team, to help provide life-changing opportunities through positive instruction for local students with special needs.

EnCircle leadership, Lynchburg City Leaders and school leadership from surrounding counties will be hosting an opening celebration at the schools location, 601 12th Street in Lynchburg, on Tuesday, Aug. 13 at 12 p.m.

To learn more about enCircles Minnick Schools, visit https://www.encircleall.org/.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  Beginning on Wednesday parking will once again be free for locals at the M.B. Miller County Pier.

The change was the result of a discussion at a commission meeting 3 weeks ago. Parking fees for tourists will remain in effect. Bay County first began charging for parking at the M.B. Miller Pier on April 12th.

The fees are $2.00 per hour, $12 per day, or $80 for an annual pass. Commissioners agreed on Tuesday that locals will now be exempt from the charges.

We initially voted to be able to look at engaging and charging a parking permit there for the pier. From that, the citizens reached out to us and were talking to us. And so we asked a county attorney, as well as staff to do a deep dive analysis and look at this there is a way to be able to revise this. They were able to create the fees and fines schedule in a way that we are able to keep from charging locals for a parking permit for the county pier, Bay County Commissioner Doug Moore said.

Bay County Commissioners reconsider paid parking at M.B. Miller Pier

County officials have been tracking the parking fees since they started in April. They found that 11.5% of the users are from Bay County.

What the numbers told us was that there is an insignificant amount of money coming into those coffers that come out of Bay County. So I think its something we can live without and it would just be an amenity, if you will, you know, for our locals to be able to park at the pier for free, Bay County Commissioner Tommy Hamm said.

Hamm said the money theyll collect from tourists will pay for the day-to-day maintenance operations and debt of the pier.

That money will go into the parks and rec budget and so, you know, over time when we get this paid off, you know, thats just I think we have another two, maybe three years left on our debt service, Hamm said.

Locals will still have to register their vehicle at the pier window with a local ID or vehicle registration. If theyve already bought an annual parking pass, theyll be eligible for a refund at the pier window, or they can call 850-248-8730.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A mural encouraging Michiganders to vote outside the offices for ACLU of Michigan in Detroit on Friday, June 14, 2024.

The stage is looking set for the November general election in Macomb County after Tuesday's primary, where there was competition in two countywide offices, clerk and sheriff.

Five of the six countywide offices will be up for grabs in the fall. The county executive seat is not up for another two years.

Republican Clerk/Register of Deeds Anthony Forlini defeated challengers Kristi Dean, secretary of the Macomb Community College Board of Trustees from Shelby Township, and Jackie Ryan, of Sterling Heights, a former deputy county clerk who served under ousted county Clerk Karen Spranger, in Tuesday's primary, according to unofficial results, with 100% of precincts reporting.

Forlini, a former Harrison Township supervisor and state representative, took more than 62% of the vote and will face David Adams of Bruce Township, who defeated Steve Fleck of Eastpointe in the Democratic primary, in November.

Republican sheriff's candidate Terence Mekoski of Shelby Township edged out Scott Budnick of Macomb Township to face Sheriff Anthony Wickersham, a Democrat who was unopposed in the primary, on Nov. 5, according to the unofficial results.

Mekoski, who took 43.1% of the vote, won by 189 votes over Budnick, who received 42.8% of the tally in the three-way GOP race. Mekoski, a former state representative who is retired from the Oakland County Sheriffs Office, will face Wickersham, in a rehash of the 2020 election.

Budnick, a Hamtramck police officer, and former Warren City Councilman Eddie Kabacinski competed in the GOP primary for sheriff.

Three countywide offices had no primary contest, with the three incumbents facing opponents in the general election. They are:

Incumbent Prosecutor Peter Lucido, a Republican, who will face Democrat Christina Hines of Warren for prosecutor.

Incumbent Treasurer Larry Rocca, a Republican, who is challenged by Democrat Mathew Churchwell of St. Clair Shores.

Incumbent Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller, a Republican, will face opposition from Democrat Kevin Higgins of Warren.

County Executive Mark Hackels term is not up until 2026.

Hackel and Wickersham currently are the only two Democrats holding countywide office. Democrats held all of the countywide offices until 2020, when Republicans won four of five seats in that years election and flipped the majority of the Board of Commissioners to the GOP.

Macomb County commission races

Six of the 13 county commission seats did not have a primary Tuesday, with incumbents in those seats headed to the general election. For incumbents in four of the six seats  Districts 2, 8, 10 and 13  there was no primary for the opposing party.

Commissioner Michelle Nard lost in the Democratic primary to Michael Howard, who took 37% of the vote, according to unofficial results, for the 12th District seat that serves part of Warren. Nard came in third with 21% of the vote in the four-person race. There was no Republican primary for the seat.

All countywide offices and county commission seats are four-year terms.

For the other six county board seats:

Democrat Ken Reid will face Commissioner Sylvia Grot, who won 49.6% of the vote in the GOP primary over two opponents, in November for the 3rd District seat, which represents most of Shelby Township and the city of Utica. (A side note: Grot's husband, Shelby Township Clerk Stan Grot won his GOP primary with nearly 52% of the vote in a four-way race for township clerk.)

Commissioner Don VanSyckel won with more than 72% of the vote in the Republican primary over Pashko Ujkic for the 5th District. There was no Democratic primary for the district, which represents part of Sterling Heights.

Commissioner Joseph Romano, a Republican, will face Matthew Smith, who won the Democratic primary over Ben Orjada, in November for the 6th District seat, which represents part of Sterling Heights.

Republican Commissioner James Perna will face Edlira Sako, who beat Frank Borsellino in the Democratic primary, in the general election for the 7th District seat. The seat represents parts of Clinton, Macomb and Shelby townships.

Republican Barbara Zinner, who beat three opponents in the GOP primary with just over 49% of the vote, will face Donald Wheaton Jr., who won the Democratic primary over Tenia Denard, in November for the 9th District. The seat represents parts of St. Clair Shores and Harrison Township and the Macomb County portion of Grosse Pointe Shores.

Republican Gus Ghanam, who was appointed to the county board this year, won over former Warren City Councilman Garry Watts with 53% of the vote in the GOP primary for the 11th District seat. Ghanam will face Democrat Lisa Wojno in November for the seat, which serves part of Warren.

Clinton Township races

Among other local races with primaries that will make for interesting viewing in the general election is the supervisor's race in Clinton Township. Longtime Supervisor Bob Cannon announced in April he would not seek reelection after 24 years as supervisor and 40 years on the township Board of Trustees.

Cannon ran as a Democrat as a trustee and in a crowded field of candidates for supervisor in 2000, he switched parties and won as a Republican.

In November, Democrat Paul Gieleghem, the township treasurer who served as a former chairman of the Macomb County Board of Commissioners and a state representative, will face Republican Vicki Wolber, a retired Macomb County deputy executive, to succeed Cannon for a four-year term.

Gieleghem won the Democratic primary over Kenneth Reiff, taking more than 80% of the vote, while Wolber beat Noah Cannon in the GOP contest, taking 56.7% of the vote.

For Clinton Township treasurer, two township trustees duked it out in the Democratic primary with Tammy Patton winning a tight race  91 votes  over Mike Keys, per the unofficial results. Patton had just over 50% of the vote to just over Keys' 49%. Patton faces GOP candidate Mike Aiello in November.

Other races, proposals

In Armada Township, Supervisor John Paterek lost in the GOP primary to Christopher Krotche, retired Armada fire chief, who received 66.8% of the vote, according to unofficial results. The was no primary on the Democratic side.

The county also will be adding another probate judge, with a field of three candidates narrowed in Tuesday's contest.

Benjamin Schock, of Macomb Township, an elder law attorney who co-founded a law firm in Mount Clemens that specializes in probate cases, and Aaron Hall, of Clinton Township, a county assistant prosecutor who is chief of the probate unit, were the top two vote-getters over Jevona Fudge, of St. Clair Shores, a deputy chief/assistant prosecutor with the county in the Constructive Reimbursement Unit.

Several communities also had proposals on their ballots, including St. Clair Shores' infrastructure millage (which passed) to parks and recreation and senior citizen transportation millage renewals in Bruce and Washington townships (which also passed).

In Warren, term limits were again up for voters to decide. This time, it was a city charter amendment proposal to count incomplete terms of office greater than two years as one term for term limit purposes for the offices of mayor, city council, clerk and treasurer. The proposal passed with a vote of more than 72%.

Warren voters also approved a city charter amendment proposal to appoint a citizen representative on the city election commission in place of the assessor. The city election commission's current makeup is clerk, city attorney and assessor. The proposal would replace the assessor with a citizen representative appointed by the city council who is a registered voter and not a current city officer, city employee or candidate for city office. The proposal passed with more than 58.5% of the vote.

Warren voters also gave a thumbs up to a proposal to the 60-plus-year-old city charter that would allow posting notices on a public portion of the city's website and not on 10 bulletin boards the charter requires be maintained for posting notices. The measure, which passed with more than 70% of the vote, required a prominent link on the city's homepage to all active notices and notices for the past five years.

Warren voters also overwhelmingly approved a road repair millage renewal.

Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Macomb County general election preview: Key contests set after primary
Emmanuel Macron, President of France, speaks in the ballroom of Muenster's historic town hall at the award ceremony for the International Peace of Westphalia Prize. Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East.

Macron called upon Pezeshkian to do everything possible to prevent further military escalation, which would benefit no one, not even Iran, and would cause lasting damage to regional stability, Macron's office, the Elysee Palace, said on Wednesday evening.

There are fears of a military strike by Iran and its allies against Israel.

In the telephone conversation with Pezeshkian, Macron said that Iran must call on the destabilizing actors it supports to show maximum restraint to avoid a widespread conflict. Macron stressed the importance of moving away from the logic of retaliation, and instead protecting the civilian population, the Elysee Palace said.

Additionally, Macron reiterated France's position in favour of an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a firm rejection of any escalation with Lebanon.

Macron emphasized France's commitment to work on a credible political framework for peace and security in the region, provided that Iran adheres to its international obligations, the Elysee Palace said.

Tehran had announced "harsh punishment" for Israel after the top leader of the Palestinian militant organization Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was deliberately killed in the Iranian capital Tehran a week ago. Iran and Hamas hold Israel responsible for the attack.
It is usually uneventful when a single insider buys stock. However, When quite a few insiders buy shares, as it happened in Norcros plc's (LON:NXR) case, it's fantastic news for shareholders.

While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether.

Check out our latest analysis for Norcros

Norcros Insider Transactions Over The Last Year

In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when Chairman of the Board Steve Good bought UK45k worth of shares at a price of UK1.51 per share. Even though the purchase was made at a significantly lower price than the recent price (UK2.20), we still think insider buying is a positive. Because it occurred at a lower valuation, it doesn't tell us much about whether insiders might find today's price attractive.

Norcros insiders may have bought shares in the last year, but they didn't sell any. The average buy price was around UK1.67. It is certainly positive to see that insiders have invested their own money in the company. However, we do note that they were buying at significantly lower prices than today's share price. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last 12 months, below. If you click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date!

Norcros is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find small cap companies at attractive valuations, this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket.

Norcros Insiders Bought Stock Recently

Over the last three months, we've seen a bit of insider buying at Norcros. Non-Executive Director Stefan Allanson shelled out UK24k for shares in that time. We like it when there are only buyers, and no sellers. But the amount invested in the last three months isn't enough for us too put much weight on it, as a single factor.

Insider Ownership

Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. From what we can see in our data, insiders own only about UK594k worth of Norcros shares. It's always possible we are missing something but from our data, it looks like insider ownership is minimal.

Story continues

So What Do The Norcros Insider Transactions Indicate?

Our data shows a little insider buying, but no selling, in the last three months. That said, the purchases were not large. On a brighter note, the transactions over the last year are encouraging. The transactions are fine but it'd be more encouraging if Norcros insiders bought more shares in the company. While it's good to be aware of what's going on with the insider's ownership and transactions, we make sure to also consider what risks are facing a stock before making any investment decision. Our analysis shows 2 warning signs for Norcros (1 doesn't sit too well with us!) and we strongly recommend you look at these before investing.

If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt.

For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests.

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
Many people are asking themselves what Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduros plans to do in the face of growing domestic and international outrage over his grotesque July 28 electoral fraud. The answer is simple: buy time, and hope that the world forgets about Venezuela.

The good news is that his plan may not work. The looming threat of millions of additional Venezuelans fleeing the country is already creating panic across the Americas. More than 7.7 million Venezuelans have already fled Venezuela since Maduro took office in 2013, and recent polls suggest that at least 4 million more will leave soon if he stays in power after his sham elections.

On Tuesday, recently inaugurated Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino offered to host a summit of Latin American presidents to discuss the Venezuelan crisis. He said the meeting will seek more actions in support of democracy and the will of the people in Venezuela.

Panama and six other Latin American nations  including Argentina, Peru, Ecuador and Uruguay  have already recognized Venezuelas opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia as the winner of Venezuelas elections.

In addition, three Maduro allies  the democratically-elected leftist leaders of Brazil, Colombia and Mexico  are demanding that Maduro release voting records proving his alleged victory, as the Venezuelan law requires. Copies of verified election results published by the opposition, as well as exit polls, show that Gonzalez Urrutia won with 67% of the vote, to Maduros 30%.

The Biden Administration has said there is overwhelming evidence that Gonzalez Urrutia won the elections, and is calling on Maduro to negotiate a democratic transition of power.

Maduros bizarre excuse for not showing the detailed voting data is that there was an alleged hack of the election computer system, allegedly organized by opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and launched from Northern Macedonia. But no serious observer believes that story.

Jennie Lincoln, who led the Carter Centers electoral experts mission to Venezuela, told me that the alleged hacking attack is a bogus claim.

There are companies in the region that monitor denial of service events, and not none of them flagged a denial of service in Venezuela on the night of the election, Lincoln told me. Any reference to an alleged hack is a government distraction from the requirement to show the full polling data.

Lincoln added, Multiple groups, including the Carter Center, have run the numbers that come from original copies of the tally sheets, and they show that the opposition won by a two-to-one margin.

Since Maduros current term expires in January, the Venezuelan regime is now creating schemes to divert public attention, in hopes that other world events such as the wars in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine conflict will soon push Venezuela out of the headlines.

Maduro has called for a Venezuelan Supreme Tribunal of Justice audit into the elections, including the alleged hacking attack. Such a probe, not contemplated by Venezuelan laws, could take months, and would make the high court  rather than the election authorities, both of which he controls  the final arbiter of the election results.

Former Colombian President Ivan Duque, a Maduro critic, told me that the Venezuelan dictator is following two simultaneous strategies: He is secretly forging election data to eventually have something to show to the world, and, if that doesnt work, he will direct the Supreme Tribunal of Justice to call for a new election.

But the latter option is a trap that may be supported by Brazil, Colombia and Mexico to give Maduro some political breathing room, Duque told me. There should be a transition of power, not a new election. The international community must press for a negotiated exit of Maduro, rather than allowing him to stay in power, Duque said.

Either way, Maduros wish that his election fraud will soon fade out of the headlines will not materialize. His electoral fraud was so gross, and the prospect of a new exodus of millions of Venezuelans is so real, that Latin America and Washington are likely to keep the pressure for a transition in Venezuela.

Dont miss the Oppenheimer Presenta TV show on Sundays at 9 pm E.T. on CNN en Espanol. Blog: andresoppenheimer.com
Michigans August primary is over. The votes have been counted, and one thing is clear: Its going to be a rough ride to November.

Any election has winners and losers. This one was no different. Youll read a lot about the winners in our news pages. Lets talk about the losers.

The Trump Unity Bridge, a mobile campaign messaging platform created by Donald Trump supporter Rob Cortis, of Livonia, on display at the Old Detroit Bar and Grille in Lake Orion with added messaging in support of U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024 during a primary election night party.

Any return to political normalcy

If you hoped that wed finally scrape away the lingering barnacles of Trump-era screaming reactionism and faux-conservative chicanery, at least in local elections ... well, it wasnt Tuesday.

In three separate contests, MAGA Republicans absolutely vanquished their more traditional foes.

Exhibit A: Former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers easily won the Republican nomination for Michigans open U.S. Senate seat. Hell face sitting Democratic U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin this fall.

Rogers, the early favorite, clawed his way to victory over fellow former U.S. Rep. Justin Amash and west Michigan doctor Christine ODonnell in the GOP primary, winning 66% of ballots cast.

Once a figure who commanded an unusual degree of bipartisan respect in Washington and Michigan, Rogers had declined to board the Donald Trump ship for a full eight years. But he performed an abrupt about face late last year, endorsing Trump  Rogers, a former FBI agent, chose to endorse Trump after the Jan. 6 riots. You could argue that its the sort of thing Republicans have to do these days, if they want to get elected ... but its not exactly a harbinger of integrity.

And it gets worse  in an endorsement interview with the Detroit Free Press Editorial Board earlier this summer, Rogers wouldn't answer whether he believes the 2020 election was fair, and wouldn't promise to defend the voting rights of the Detroiters he hopes to represent. And he floated a truly bizarre proposal to keep illiterate inmates incarcerated until theyve attained literacy. Nothing like civil liberties, right?

Slotkin and Rogers are headed to a November match-up, and although Slotkin, an eminently qualified moderate who beat actor Hill Harper to win her partys nomination by 65 points, has edged ahead of Rogers in recent polls, we expect this race to be tight.

For exhibits B and C, we turn to Oakland County, where two state legislators who ought to be exiled to political obsolescence easily won new terms.

State Rep. Matt Maddock, R-Milford, a former bail bondsman, is best known for his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, and for voting against his own party most of the time. Hell represent Oakland Countys 51st District for two more years.

Republican state Rep. Josh Schriver, R-Oxford, is best known for endorsing a racist conspiracy theory, posting videos of himself rapping poorly, thinking Abraham Lincoln wrote the U.S. Constitution, and  it's popular, apparently  voting against his own party.

Principled candidates with experience in government ran against all three men, gambling that voters were tired of the chaos of the last eight years, and would eagerly support traditional conservatives: Amash in the Senate primary, Kevin Ziegler, of Milford, against Maddock, and Oxford resident Randy LaVasseur against Schriver. All three  principled men with experience in government  bet that voters were tired of the chaos of the last three years, and eager to support traditional conservatives. All three were trounced.

Everyone's talking about Project 2025. Here's what they're missing.

Cash rules everything around us?

Say hello to two more years of U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar.

On Tuesday night, Thanedar secured a second term in the U.S. Congress. He'll face Republican opponent Martell Bivings in November, but the district is so heavily Democratic that he has effectively won the seat.

Its hard to separate Thanedars victory from his whopping, and largely self-funded, campaign war chest. In the last Federal Elections Commission filing, Thanedar reported taking in $7 million, with $4.9 million cash on hand. His closest opponent, Detroit City Councilwoman Mary Waters, raised just $153,000. Around 3 a.m. Wednesday morning, Thanedar was reported to have taken 51% of the vote compared to Waters 35%.

When Thanedar won in 2022, it felt like a fluke. A nine-way race for an open seat split Black political leadership and Detroit voters, thrusting a wealthy businessman with no legislative experience into a spotlight he enjoyed, but hadnt earned, and left Detroit without Black representation for the first time since pioneering Black Democrat Charles Diggs Jr. took office in 1955.

Thanedar seemed to be set for a rematch with former state Sen. Adam Hollier, who finished five points behind him in 2022. Hollier had amassed endorsements from dozens of Democratic elected officials - extremely rare when a Democratic incumbent is also running - but he botched the paperwork required to qualify for the ballot, leaving Thanedar, Detroit City Councilwoman Mary Waters and attorney Shakira Hawkins in a three-way contest.

This election showed that the power of name recognition and well-financed campaigning  Thanedar is able to make personal appearances in neighborhoods across the district  can overcome an urgent push to restore Black representation in this district, even when the incumbent struggled with constituent services and legislative influence.

In the races final weeks, a shadowy political action committee launched a $1.5-million barrage of advertisements attacking Waters, including an assertion that she opposes same-sex marriage, which Waters, who has distributed pictures of herself at Pride Month celebrations, says is false.

The Free Press endorsement of Thanedar laid out a prescription for the representative, should he win office again:

Prioritize constituent services.

Hire a full complement of qualified staffers, pay them appropriately, and ensure interns and fellows have duties commensurate with their status.

Ensure that all office functions and interactions comply with federal law and best practices of workplace management.

Build relationships with members of Michigans Congressional delegation who might be able to advise their junior colleague on sound management practices.

Understand the reasons for staff turnover, and correct internal culture problems that cause it.

Limit the use of budget dollars on advertising that could be spent on staff.

Forge or repair relationships with local leaders.

Itll be interesting to see whether Thanedar builds a stronger reputation for effective representation over the next two years, or whether a united front mounts against him in 2026.

I didn't take Tea Party, Trump seriously Now I worry about the rise of authoritarianism.

Robust representative democracy, at least in August

Despite a host of measures that make it easier for Michiganders to cast ballots  no reason absentee and early in-person voting  turnout remains anemic.

But August primary turnout rarely overwhelms. Early projections indicated that roughly 2 million Michiganders cast ballots. That's about 27% of the voting-age population  less than 2022, 2020 or 2018, but more than most previous August primaries. Still, even a record-busting 35% or 40% would mean significantly fewer than half of voting-age Michiganders participated.

Its easy to sit out a primary, particularly one without any connection to the presidential race. But key races in the U.S. Congress and the state House of Representatives in heavily partisan districts were effectively decided in this election, by just three in 10 of the voting-age population.

Maybe voting in August isnt a great idea. Detroit used to hold municipal primaries in September, after school started. Its an idea the state ought to explore.

Nancy Kaffer is editorial page editor of the Detroit Free Press. Contact: nkaffer@freepress.com. Khalil AlHajal is deputy editorial page editor of the Detroit Free Press. Contact: kalhajal@freepress.com. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters and we may publish it online and in print.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan primary results aren't bad. They're not good, either.
MAGA troll who sparked fury for telling voters not to be weak and gay crashes out of primary

A Republican candidate for Missouri Secretary of State who used homophobic slurs in her campaign videos lost significantly in her primary race on Tuesday evening, receiving less than 8 percent of the total votes.

Valentina Gomez, a 25-year-old woman who sought the Republican nomination, made headlines this year with her eye-catching campaign videos that included burning LGBT+-friendly books for children and teens, attacking people in the LGBT+ community with vulgar language, promoting AR-15s, abolishing voting machines and more.

Critics of Gomez accused her of spreading hateful content because much of her content included vulgar language. She called Vice President Kamala Harris a hoe and little b****, used the word f****t to describe transgender people and described Democrats as full of gay s***, among other things.

But it seemed Gomezs message did not resonate with Missourians.

Unofficial preliminary results released on Tuesday evening indicated Gomez finished sixth out of eight potential candidates with 7.4 percent of the vote.

Valentina Gomez stirred controversy online through her campaign videos while pursuing the Republican nomination for Missouri Secretary of State (Valentina Gomez)

The Missouri Secretary of State position is primarily tasked with overseeing statewide elections. The position also requires a person to manage current and historical records, develop and improve library services, publish administrative rules and regulations and more.

Gomez said, if elected, she would abolish voting machines and return Missouris voting system to paper ballots. She also suggested using the National Guard to oversee polling and require voters to present ID on voting days.

Much of her rhetoric around voting integrity echoed those of former president Donald Trump. She insinuated the U.S. has a history of mass voter fraud in elections and particularly accused non-citizens of voting for Democratic candidates.

am working to become Missouris next Secretary of State, and these officials in blue states have weaponized their offices to allow for fraudulent voting. This is why I blow up the voting machines, have same day voting with valid issued ID, and only US CITIZENS will vote! pic.twitter.com/wIstYAsYr5  Valentina Gomez (@ValentinaForSOS) March 28, 2024

Missouri State Senator Denny Hoskins clinched the Republican nomination with 24.4 percent.

After polls closed, Gomez posted a video message to social media thanking supporters for putting their faith in her but did not address her loss or any plans for what she will do now.
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

Tens of thousands of activists from the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) rallied in the capital Dhaka on Wednesday, with its leader urging everyone to keep patient after the ouster of Sheik Hasinas government.

"No destruction, no revenge, no vengeance; Lets build a society based on love, peace, and knowledge," former prime minister and head of the BNP Khaleda Zia said in a video played for the crowd in front her party headquarters in central Nayapaltan.

This was her first public address in more than six years since she was jailed on graft charges in 2018 during the rule of Sheikh Hasina, Zias arch political rival.

The ailing Zia, 78, was freed on a presidential decree on Tuesday, a day after Hasina resigned and fled the country to India as she faced mass protests. She has been undergoing medical care at a hospital in Dhaka, the party leader said.

She thanked the students and people of Bangladesh for making it possible to topple the "repressive" government of Hasina, urging all to cooperate in building a democratic Bangladesh based on merit, ability and knowledge.

Organizers say more than 50,000 people joined the rally.

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

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
Malakai Stovall, say his name: family of five-year-old who died after house fire faces sisters accused of setting the fire in court

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Two women, sisters, were arraigned in Rochester City Court Wednesday morning on charges of second-degree murder, and first-degree Arson. The pair are accused of intentionally setting the fire that badly burned five-year-old Malakai Stovall, who died days later in the hospital.

Sisters arrested, accused of killing five-year-old in Portland Avenue arson

Tiakalya (left) and Taquida (right) Hendrix at their respective arraignments Wednesday morning.

Tiakalya Hendrix, 21 and Taquida Hendrix, 31, were both arraigned separately. Taquida was the first to be arraigned this morning. As she walked out, Brianna Akers, the mother of Malakai Stovall could be heard shouting Malakai Stovall, say his name.

I wanted to make sure they heard my voice, Im Malakais advocate right now. I wanted them to hear from his mother that were not going to let this go, she said.

Malakai suffered burns to more than 70% of his body because of the fire that lit up his Portland Avenue home back in the overnight hours of July 29th.

Malakai did so many firsts this summer, he went camping, he learned how to catch a fish Akers said. He just did so much, I just want his memory to live on. He was my best friend and its definitely, definitely (she paused) I wouldnt wish this on anybody. And I  I just want these people to burn.

The Hendrix sisters were arraigned this morning for arson and murder for the fire which led to the death of Malakai Stovall, 5. They have been remanded to MCSO custody.



Malakais mom said his name in the courtroom telling @News_8 I wanted to make sure they heard my voice pic.twitter.com/LEi7BgEfbe  Oran Spitzer (@OranSpitzer) August 7, 2024

When talking with Akers outside of the courtroom Wednesday, the grief-stricken mother teared up remembering the light Malakai, her only-child, had brought into this world. Despite the pain, his memory allowed her to crack a smile, even if it was only for a moment.

He was so happy; he was definitely more of a people person. We couldnt even go into a grocery store without him telling the cashier his life story. He was just the best, Akers said. He was definitely an old soul.

Akers called Malakai her big, special little boy and told News 8 he was the type of kid that made it impossible to feel sad. She and a few other members of the family were wearing shirts with his picture on it Wednesday morning at court. Akers made sure to draw attention to the image of the boy on her pink shirt which reads Me and you baby. It depicts her and Malakai when he was just three years old.

According to court documents obtained by News 8, the women alleged to have set the fire also knew the home was occupied. Nine people in total were sleeping inside the two-family duplex, including five-year-old Malakai and his 19-year-old babysitter. Police said the babysitter was able to get out safely, but was unable to reach the boy due to the way the fire was set. Malakai was found by fire crews unconscious by the time they reached him. Two firefighters were injured as well.

The documents go on to say the women poured gasoline onto the porch and set the fire using a lighter. Police said the home was specifically targeted but could not get into any details pertaining to a possible motive.

It was a heinous crime; it shouldnt be in our neighborhoods. This shouldnt happen in our neighborhood. I dont care whats going on around, if you got an issue, they should be able to settle it without dispute, without all this violence, said Beverly Wood, who lives on Portland Avenue.

Both women arraigned Wednesday in connection with the case are due back in court over the next couple of days beginning August 9th.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Coroner identifies man who died from multiple gunshots in the back on Columbus' East Side

The Franklin County Coroner has identified a man who died after being shot multiple times Tuesday evening on Columbus' East Side.

Rodrequs Turner, 22, died in the shooting that happened about 7:50 p.m. in the 1200 block of South Hamilton Road. Police responded to a report of a man who was shot several times in the back, a Columbus police 911 dispatcher confirmed Tuesday night.

Responding officers found Turner suffering from gunshot wounds, the dispatcher said.

Columbus fire medics took Turner to Mount Carmel East Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 8:19 p.m.

Police made no arrests in the shooting as of 11:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Columbus police homicide detectives and crime scene technicians closed a portion of South Hamilton Road between East Mound Street and Melroy Avenue during the initial investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident can contact Detective Corbin at 614-645-2685 or DCorbin@ColumbusPolice.org or submit an anonymous tip to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477.

Dispatch reporter Bailey Gallion contributed to this report.

smeighan@dispatch.com

@ShahidMeighan

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Man died after being shot 'multiple times' on Columbus' East Side
The News

The military juntas of Mali and Niger have each cut diplomatic relations with Ukraine, after they determined that Kyiv was involved in an operation supporting Tuareg rebels in the north of Mali. The insurgency last month led to the killing of 47 Malian soldiers, and 84 Russian military contractors.

The attack and subsequent diplomatic fallout has raised the first serious concerns that the Russia-Ukraine war, now halfway through its third year, could play out on African soil.

On Sunday, Malis military leaders denounced Kyivs support for international terrorism and its blatant aggression.

Ukraines foreign ministry said it regretted a short-sighted and hasty decision taken without conducting a thorough study of the facts and circumstances of the incident in the north of Mali.

A ceremony in Moscow paying tribute to Wagner fighters recently killed in Mali; Reuters/Yulia Morozova

But on Ukrainian television, Andriy Yusov, spokesman of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), stated that the rebels had received the necessary information leading to a successful operation against Russian war criminals.

While most African governments have resisted Bamakos call to denounce the neo-nazi and heinous Ukrainian authorities, the government of Niger, also led by a military junta, announced late on Tuesday that it is also severing its diplomatic ties with Kyiv. Niamey criticized the silence of other African countries and the African Union in the face of malicious attempts to turn the Sahel into a theater of ideological and strategic confrontation

The West African bloc Ecowas, which Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso quit earlier this year to form a separate regional bloc, also expressed its strong disapproval and condemnation of any foreign interference in the region.

Know More

This series of events set off alarm bells beyond Mali and Niger. A video of Andriy Yusovs interview was shared on social media by Iouri Pyvovarov, the Ukrainian ambassador to Senegal, prompting the ire of the Malian government and a rebuke from the Senegalese foreign affairs minister. Pyvovarov was summoned by the foreign ministry to remind him of the obligations of discretion, restraint and non-interference, it said in a statement.

Bamako has always denied using the Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary organization that operates widely in Africa, said Bokar Sangare, a political sciences researcher currently in Bamako.. The authorities only refer to simple military instructors, no different from their Western counterparts. Sangare said he doubted the Ukrainian action was an isolated case: Recently, Wagner forces faced unexpected setbacks in Sudan as well as Syria, due to the unacknowledged help of the DIU.

Joels view

There are reasons to believe that the public acknowledgement of Ukrainian help to the Tuareg separatists was a blunder. Firstly, it occurred shortly before Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba set off for an African diplomatic tour  his fourth in two years  to Malawi, Zambia and Mauritius from Aug. 4 to 8. Since March 2022, when African nations made up half of the abstentions on the UN resolution condemning the aggression against Ukraine, Kyivs has pursued a sustained charm offensive in Africa and opened several embassies. It has even suggested President Volodymr Zelenskyy would be making his first Africa visit this year.

Secondly, Pyvovarov has promptly deleted his social media posts on Mali. Third, Ukraine didnt reciprocate the severance of ties, choosing instead to highlight its significant contribution to peacekeeping operations in Mali.

Sangare argued that the battle between Ukraine and Russia in Africa is mostly about influence, perception, and communication and not yet in the outsourcing of the Ukrainian conflict to Africa.

Yet, there are troubling signs of Kyivs determination to pursue its countermeasures against Wagner forces in Africa. In his now-deleted posts, Pyvoravov stated: The work will continue. There will certainly be other results. Punishment for war crimes and terrorism is inevitable.

Ukrainian intelligence services are thought to have sent tentative feelers towards separatists movements in Chad, where an increased Russian involvement is anticipated. Their presence in Libya is also known to security specialists.
(Reuters) - Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche is considering divesting cancer data specialist Flatiron Health, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Roche had paid $1.9 billion for New-York based Flatiron Health in 2018 to speed its development of cancer medicines and support its efforts to price them based on how well they work.

The pharmaceutical company is now working with Citigroup to assess options for Flatiron, including divesting the business or selling part of the company to a partner that could help run the business, the FT report said.

Although Roche has kept Flatiron as a separate legal entity, its ownership has deterred some rival drugmakers from doing business with the start-up which has hurt the unit's sales, according to the report.

Roche executives who originally played a part in the deal have largely departed, leaving Flatiron with fewer advocates at the Swiss company, the report added.

A spokesperson from Roche said: "As a matter of policy, we don't comment on rumours."

Citigroup also declined to comment on the report, while Flatiron did not immediately respond.

Flatiron, once backed by Alphabet, taps into data on individual cancer cases to help doctors select promising approaches for their patients. It also stores billing data, doctors' notes and related information.

The report on Roche mulling divesting Flatiron comes after the drugmaker last month raised its full-year earnings forecast driven by strong demand for newer drugs such as its eye medicine Vabysmo.

(Reporting by Akanksha Khushi in Bengaluru; Additional reporting by Paul Arnold in Zurich; Editing by Varun H K, Christopher Cushing and Maju Samuel)
Man accused of hiding knife in sewer after Adventureland stabbing on Long Island: DA

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. (PIX11)  A Long Island man was indicted Wednesday for allegedly stabbing a man at Adventureland in July, according to Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney.

More Long Island News

On July 7, members of Daniel Tomaskys family got into a fight with another family while at the amusement park around 5 p.m., according to officials. Tomasky, 42, allegedly took a knife from his waistband and charged at James Burns, who was not a part of the fight. Tomasky is accused of stabbing Burns in the abdomen, per police. And the DA said the stabbing happened in front of several kids.

Prosecutors said Tomasky allegedly got rid of the knife after the fight in a sewer drain near his parked vehicle. Police found the knife in the sewer.

Our community deserves to feel safe in places open to the public, particularly those designed for families, said Tierney. This indictment represents our commitment to upholding that safety. We will pursue this case diligently, guided by the facts and the law.

More Crime News

Tomasky is being charged with the following:

One count of assault in the first degree;

One count of assault in the second degree;

One count of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree;

One count of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree; and

Three counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

In a statement to PIX11 News on the day of the attack, a spokesperson for the park said:

For more than 60 years, Adventureland has been providing Long Island families with a convenient, affordable and fun local destination. The safety and security of our visitors is our highest priority. This afternoon, Sunday July 7, apparently two families got into a confrontation at the park, resulting in one male with stab wounds. Park Safety responded quickly to the altercation to secure the scene, provide aid and called in local police and first responders. The police have finished processing the scene and as of 8 p.m. all parts of the park are open until 10 p.m. tonight and will operate under regular hours in the week coming up. We defer any further comment about the incident to Suffolk Police who are investigating. Adventureland Amusement Park spokesperson

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.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Rochester police announced an arrest after a man was shot and killed in a home on Sherman Street last month.

On Sunday, July 28, 32-year-old Alec Ojeda was shot multiple times around 5:30 a.m. Investigators said he was arguing with the suspect, who pulled out a gun and began firing. Ojeda died shortly after he arrived at the hospital.

Investigators accused 35-year-old Timothy Patterson of fatally shooting Ojeda. He was found in the area of Lyell Avenue Tuesday night and was arrested without incident.

According to RPD, Patterson is prohibited from possessing a weapon in New York due to five misdemeanor and two felony convictions. His last conviction was in 2016 for criminal possession of a weapon and he was released on parole in 2020. He was discharged from parole supervision in 2023.

Patterson has been charged with second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He will be arraigned in court Wednesday morning at 9:30 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 RochesterFirst.
The 47-year-old suspect was arrested at his home after being accused of making the theft from a warehouse in Sydney, Australia

HANDOUT/NEW SOUTH WALES POLICE/AFP via Getty Images 'Bluey' limited edition coins

A 47-year-old man is due to appear in court after being accused of stealing nearly $400,000 worth of limited-edition coins from the popular animated series Bluey.



The man was arrested on Wednesday, Aug. 7, and is accused of taking 63,000 unreleased limited edition $1 Bluey coins from the back of a truck at a warehouse in Fairfield City, Australia on June 23, the local police said in a release.

The stolen coins, produced by the Australian mint, are worth an estimated $600,000 AUD ($393,000) and were first reported stolen on July 12. They look like a one-dollar Australian coin and depict various images of Bluey characters from the popular Australian series.

The suspect was arrested at his home in Syndey and is believed to have been an employee at the warehouse at the time of the theft, according to police.

"On Monday, July 12, police received a report that a large amount of currency had been stolen from a warehouse in Wetherill Park," per the release. "... Strike Force detectives  with assistance from Raptor Squad  executed a search warrant at a home in Westmead, about 7:00 a.m. today (Aug. 7), where they arrested a 47-year-old man.

George Chan/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images A man has been accused of stealing nearly $400,00 worth of 'Bluey' coins in Sydney

Related: Prosecutor Accused of Stealing Money for Crime Victims to Buy Pillow, Pillowcase and Other Items

The man was identified as Stephen John Nielson, per Sky News and ABC News Australia.



Police allege he sold the coins online hours after he stole them for ten times the value.

Authorities also seized 189 unreleased limited edition Bluey coins at a residence in the Australian suburb of Sefton on July 31 and are on the lookout for other accomplices involved in the incident.

The suspect is charged with "three counts of break & enter" with the "intent to commit a serious indictable offense," according to the police release. The crime has a maximum penalty of 10 years.



Bluey debuted in Australia in 2018 and first aired in the U.S. in 2019. The widely popular animated series is also one of the most-streamed shows for Disney across all audiences in 2024.



Related: Oregon Store Owner Charged as Police Recover 4,153 LEGO Sets Worth More Than $200,000

Detective Superintendent Joseph Doueihi told reporters at a news conference, per NBC News: The theft of these coins have deprived a lot of young children and members of the community from having access to these coins, so were doing our absolute best to try to recover these coins and put them back into circulation.



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.

Detective Superintendent Joseph Doueihi from the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad said that the remaining stolen coins are currently being advertised online by an "innocent" coin collector where they are being sold for $10 AUD, ABC News Australia reported.

"Our investigation at that stage identified that person that was selling those coins was a legitimate coin collector and had innocently come into possession of those items," Doueihi said, per the outlet. "We don't know what he sold them for, but we know that as soon as they were stolen, they were offloaded almost immediately."











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Read the original article on People.
Man who allegedly detonated explosive device outside Alabama Attorney Generals office to plead guilty in case

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT)  A man accused of placing an explosive device outside the Alabama Attorney Generals office earlier this year is set to plead guilty in the case.

Last week, attorneys representing Kyle Calvert of Irondale filed a notice that he would be changing his plea from not guilty to guilty.

On Feb. 26, a suspicious package was located near the intersection of Washington Avenue and South Bainbridge Street in downtown Montgomery. Detectives with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency determined that the package had been detonated earlier that weekend when no one was near the building.

On April 10, Calvert was arrested and charged with malicious use of an explosive and possession of an unregistered destructive device.

Calvert, who has never publicly commented on why he allegedly placed the package near the AGs office, faces between five to 20 years in prison without the possibility of parole.

No hearing has been set for when Calvert will be sentenced.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Man arrested in connection to robbery of downtown DC bank

WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said officers arrested a man in connection to a February bank robbery that happened in downtown D.C.

Police said that at about 9:20 a.m. on Feb. 6, the suspect approached a teller inside a bank in the 1700 block of K St. in Northwest D.C.

The suspect insinuated he was armed and demanded money, according to MPD.

Florida man charged in connection to bank robbery in Crystal City

The teller gave the suspect money, and then the suspect left the scene.

On Aug. 7, police arrested 34-year-old Reginald Williams of no fixed address.

Authorities charged him with robbery.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
IBERIA PARISH, La. (KLFY)  A man was arrested Tuesday in connection with the possession of illegally modified firearms, the Iberia Parish Sheriffs Office announced.

Jayden Gerald Hope faces charges of possession or dealing in unregistered or illegally transferred weapons, and possession of a machine gun, the sheriffs office said in a news release.

Hope is being held at the Iberia parish Jail on a $750,000 bond.

According to the news release, the arrest is a result of an investigation done by IPSOs Special Investigation Unit. the Louisiana state Police, Homeland security Investigations, Enforcement and Removal Operations and ATF assisted in the investigation, the sheriffs office said.

On Tuesday, a search warrant was executed at a home in the 600 block of Guiberteau Street in Jeanerette, police said.

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KLFY Daily Digest

IPSO said the search warrant was part of an ongoing investigation into the import and distribution of AR-15 sears and Glock switches, which are items that illegally convert semi-automatic firearms into a weapon capable of firing multiple rounds with a single press of a trigger.

As a result of the search warrant, an AR-15 pistol with an installed sear was recovered, along with several other firearms and various other weapon modification components, the sheriffs office said in the news release.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com.
Man who attacked Danish prime minister sentenced to four months in prison, deported

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark speaks to the media after meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House on June 5, 2023. Her attacker was sentenced to four months in prison on Wednesday. File Photo by Chris Kleponis/UPI

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- A 39-year-old Polish national who attacked Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen in June was sentenced on Wednesday to four months in prison and banned from the country for six years.

The court convicted the man of committing violence against an official in office. The court instructed that the man be deported immediately after completing his sentence.

"We have found you guilty of striking the prime minister on the right shoulder, knocking the prime minister out of place," a Copenhagen District Court judge in the ruling.

The court emphasized the seriousness of the crime since Frederiksen was attacked while performing her duties as prime minister. The man said he would not appeal the ruling.

Prosecutor Anders Larson said that along with the attack, the man exposed his private parts to those passing the scene, saying the acts "were certainly uncomfortable" for those seeing it.

"His behavior and demeanor dare far removed from a citizen who should be in our society," Larsson said in court.

Frederiksen, who has been prime minister since 2019, had been campaigning for her party's European Parliament candidate Christel Schaldemose when the attack happened. Schaldemose would later go on to win the election.

Europe had seen a spat of violence against politicians. Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico survived an assassination attempt by a gunman this year.
Man charged with having 44 pounds of cocaine in his truck pleads guilty

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A truck driver from Texas accused of having 44 pounds of cocaine in his rig pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine in federal court.

Javier Eduardo Guiterrez-Quintana, no age given, entered his plea in the U.S. Northern District Court of Ohio before U.S. Judge David A. Ruiz.

Sentencing is set for Nov. 22.

Guiterrez-Quintana has been in detention since he was arrested on June 3 shortly after a criminal complaint was filed against him the same day in federal court.

That complaint was a result of a May 31 investigation by police and troopers with the Ohio State Highway Patrol on prostitution at an 1150 N. Canfield Niles Road truck stop, according to the affidavit attached to the criminal complaint.

Guiterrez-Quintana was the driver of a commercial vehicle at the truck stop and as he was being questioned, a police dog was able to smell the odor of drugs inside.

When asked if he had any drugs in the vehicle, reports said Guiterrez-Quintana told police he sometimes found strange bags inside his truck and he gave police permission to search the truck.

Inside the truck the officers found three duffel bags, and inside the bags was a total of 20 taped packages that resembled the way drugs are packaged, the affidavit said.

The federal Drug Enforcement Administration was then called and Guiterrez-Quintana was questioned, the affidavit said. The affidavit said he admitted driving the drugs from El Paso, Texas to the Youngstown area, where he was supposed to meet with someone who would take the drugs.

The weight of the packages was 20 kilograms, which is just over 44 pounds.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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)  Honolulu police opened a murder investigation after a man in his 30s was shot around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 6 at the Waianae Small Boat Harbor.

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Authorities located the suspects car a few miles down Farrington Highway and brought the alleged shooter into custody after he fled on foot.

Harbor users who witnessed the shooting did not want to go on camera, but still described what happened.

Pop, pop, pop, pop, said one witness, was maybe about five or six shots is all I know. The shooter, yeah, he jumped in his truck and dug out.

Other witnesses said the driver did not take his time as he fled the scene.

Burning rubber, screeching the tires and stuff like that and almost losing control on the way out, another witness said. Went out towards the harbor entrance and then turned right and was headed towards Nanakuli side.

The suspect reportedly crashed the vehicle a few miles down the road in Maili and took on foot before he was arrested. The Nanakuli/Maili Neighborhood Board said crime is the top concern at their meetings.

Its no longer in game rooms or in chicken fights. Its out here on our highway, at our public beaches, at our boat harbor and the city and state, They fail and continue to fail us in that, Samantha DeCorte said. The only reason why they apprehended the suspect is because he crashed as he was headed out of the coast. If he didnt crash HPD would have never caught him.

DeCorte pointed out that the Waianae Police Station  which DeCorte said is only open for processing  lies right in between the crime scene and the site where the alleged shooter crashed.

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So, they would have definitely seen them passing right through had we had a fully functioning police station, she said. I would absolutely identify whats happening here on the Waianae coast as an emergency situation and we need to treat it as such. I am going to be reaching out to our major to ask for more enhancement enforcement here on the Waianae, I mean what, do we have to call the National Guard?

The suspect fled on foot after crashing the vehicle and was taken into custody. Charges are pending, HPD said in a statement on social media.

Im still shaking, forgive me, but Im still shaking, a witness said. Im trying to bring my mind back together.

The suspect, 25, has been arrested on suspicion of Murder in the Second Degree, according to HPDs Deena Thoemmes.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A serious problem: Minnesota womans car make and model dropped by State Farm  you might not be covered either

Erin Walters tried renewing her car insurance with State Farm in July  only to get rejected because she owns a 2019 Hyundai Elantra.

"I was shocked that State Farm was denying me," Walters told WCCO News, noting shed been with the insurer for five years.

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Walters said a representative told her shed been denied due to the make and model of her vehicle and that it would require a push to start ignition in order to be insured.

And its not just State Farm thats refusing her coverage. Walters says shes been trying to get a new policy from a different provider, but Progressive also said it would be unable to offer her a policy  due to high theft rates.

State Farm, Progressive have dropped some Hyundai, Kia cars

A State Farm spokesperson told WCCO News that the insurer has stopped accepting new customer applications in some states for certain model years and trim levels of Hyundai and Kia vehicles due to skyrocketing theft losses.

These thefts appeared to be occurring among Kia models newer than 2011 and Hyundai models newer than 2015.

This is a serious problem impacting our customers and the entire auto insurance industry, the spokesperson said. "We are monitoring this situation very closely and will adjust our approach as appropriate."

Last year, both State Farm and Progressive first announced it would be dropping certain Hyundai and Kia cars due to the thefts  which may have surged due to a TikTok trend where users demonstrated how to start the cars without using keys.

A Kia spokesperson told CNBC in 2022 that criminals are seeking vehicles solely equipped with a steel key and turn-to-start ignition system, but recent models are equipped with engine immobilizers, making them more difficult to steal.

A Hyundai spokesperson also told USA Today that engine immobilizers are standard on all Hyundai vehicles produced as of November 2021.

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What are automakers doing about it?

Walters said the vehicle manufacturer should be issuing a recall on these risky models and paying for the required upgrades.

Story continues

"I would never buy a Hyundai because theyre not stepping up to fixing this situation," she told WCCO News.

Recently, Hyundai and Kia settled a class-action lawsuit after claims the automakers allowed their vehicles to be more vulnerable to theft by failing to install immobilizers in models made from 2011 to 2022.

Both Hyundai and Kia have also been distributing free anti-theft software upgrades and devices for eligible impacted customers.

However, many car owners are continuing to report thefts even after receiving the free updates.

"I just don't understand why everyone isn't up in arms saying, absolutely these cars need to be recalled, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian OHara told MPR News.

Until a better solution is reached, those who are still insured with these makes and models may want to update their policy with comprehensive theft insurance.

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PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  Police in Prince Georges County are investigating a fatal shooting that happened in the middle of the day on Tuesday.

Officers with the Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) responded to the 4300 block of Ridgecrest Drive at about 2:35 p.m. There, they found a man outside suffering from gunshot wounds.

Maryland-based pest control company facing penalties for polluting DC with toxins, officials say

He was taken to a hospital where he died several hours later.

PGPD said investigators were still working to confirm suspects and any possible motives. Anyone with information is asked to contact Prince Georges County Crime Solvers or submit a tip using 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.
Man dies after jumping out of car in suspected human smuggling incident in March

A man died after jumping out of a moving vehicle in an apparent human smuggling incident in March, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said in a report on Tuesday.

Officials said that on March 6, around 5:51 p.m., a U.S. Border Patrol operator, who was monitoring CBP's remote video surveillance system, reported a potential human smuggling at a gas station in Lukeville, Arizona. The operator saw a man and woman in a gray Nissan Altima that was "suspected of transporting undocumented migrants and advised agents of the suspected human smuggling activity," the statement said.

Some minutes later, a Border Patrol agent saw the vehicle traveling northbound on SR 85 at about 65 mph and requested a check on the vehicle. During this time, the statement said another Border Patrol agent began to follow the first agent and the Nissan Altima.

The Nissan Altima then slowed to about 45 mph, and the woman and man jumped out of the right door of the moving car, officials said.

They said the Border Patrol agent who had first followed the Nissan Altima continued to follow the car, which sped away from the scene. Later the two remaining occupants were arrested, the statement read.

The second Border Patrol agent stopped to help the man and woman who had exited the car. The woman who exited the vehicle appeared to only have minor injuries, while the man was bleeding from his face, struggling to breathe and was unconscious, officials said.

Ajo Ambulance Services and Border Patrol agent Emergency Medical Technicians responded to the incident and continued to provide medical care to the man until he was taken to the Ajo Airport about an hour later. The man was then taken to Banner University Hospital in Phoenix by helicopter. A Federal Protective Service officer then "established hospital watch on behalf of CBP," the statement said. He was moved to the ICU about three hours later.

Two days later, doctors determined the man had suffered a permanent loss of brain function, and he was pronounced dead at 10 a.m., the report said.

The Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner performed an autopsy a couple days later, which determined the man's cause of death to be complications caused by blunt force trauma.

CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility and Homeland Security Investigations agents interviewed the woman who exited the car. The report said both the man and woman were "undocumented non-citizens from Mexico." The woman said the driver told her to get out of the vehicle.

The incident was being investigated by HSI and the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Annie Goodykoontz is a reporter for The Arizona Republic. You can reach her at AGoodykoontz@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Border Patrol says man died after jumping out of car in March
Three men face charges for 2019 murder at Brittany Estates mobile home park in Tallahassee

Someone was shot and killed early Saturday morning outside this mobile home in Brittany Estates in Tallahassee.

Three more men were arrested in connection to a murder and robbery in 2019 at the Brittany Estates mobile home park off Capital Circle Northwest.

Dequaris German, 31, Otis Simpson, 35, and Devonte Philips, 27, were all arrested on charges of homicide while engaged in a robbery and armed robbery. They are being held in the Leon County Detention Facility.

Almost 20 shots were fired the night of Sept. 7, 2019, when Cleto Suram, a 23-year-old man from Guatemala living at the mobile home park, was shot and killed, according to court records.

German, Simpsons and Phillips' arrests come after two other men were already charged for the murder of Suram:

In December 2019, Hernando M. Gibson Jr. was arrested on charges of willful murder while engaged in another felony.

Torail Jones was arrested June 2022 on charges of first-degree murder, armed robbery with a firearm and shooting at an occupied vehicle.

What happened?

According to court records, Suram and a group of his friends were driving back to his home from the Zewditu Mart on West Tennessee Street when they noticed a car following behind them.

Gibson allegedly approached the vehicle and held a gun up to the head of one of the victims as the suspects stole a wallet with about $600 and a cellphone from another victim before the shooting began.

Suram was shot once in the chest, and the men continued to fire from a stolen Honda Accord as they drove away.

Detectives had identified German in February "as possibly being one of the unidentified co-conspirators" through video footage, according to court records.

Then in May, court records say that a cooperating co-defendant turned in what's known as a proffered statement in which he confirmed German's identity as well as others. (In legal terms, a "proffer" generally refers to an offer of evidence or testimony by a party in a proceeding.)

Background on the case:

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: Three suspects arrested for 2019 Tallahassee mobile home park murder
Lebanon, NH- A Rhode Island man facing charges in connection to a trooper-involved shooting in Burke was arraigned in New Hampshire on Wednesday before being extradited to Vermont.

Brenden Sackal, 30, from Rockville, RI, was given medical clearance on Tuesday and released from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, where he was hospitalized following the shooting. Sackal was arraigned Wednesday afternoon at Grafton Superior Court in North Haverhill, NH.

The shooting happened just after 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, near the intersection of VT 114 and Pinkham Road. Sackal had a warrant out for his arrest in Rhode Island on charges related to possessing illegal firearm magazines.

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Around 10 p.m. that night, US Border Patrol saw Sackals pickup truck in Pittsburg, New Hampshire. Agents say they followed Sackal through Stewartstown, New Hampshire, and into Canaan, Vermont. After a tire-deflation device was used on his truck, Sackal continued north on route 114 followed by Border Patrol, Customs, Border Protection, and one deputy with the Orleans County Sheriffs Department.

Vermont State Troopers say they followed Sackal once he got to the Morgan area. They attempted to bring Sackals vehicle to a stop, but it collided with two VSP cruisers and stopped on Route 114 near Pinkham Road in Burke.

Brenden Sackal, 30, from Rockville, RI, as pictured for a mugshot. (Courtesy: NHSP)

Troopers say that Sackal fired a weapon during his arrest. Two troopers returned fire, injuring Sackal before arresting him and providing first aid. No other individuals were injured in the exchange.

Sackal is facing multiple charges in Vermont, including attempted aggravated murder, attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, reckless endangerment, possession of large-capacity ammunition feeding devices, gross negligent operation, and attempting to elude law enforcement.

Sackal was extradited to Vermont after his arraignment and is being held without bail at the Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield. He is scheduled for arraignment in Vermont Thursday 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 ABC22 & FOX44.
KOSSUTH COUNTY, Iowa  A man who was found guilty last month of the first-degree murder of an Algona police officer has filed a motion requesting a new trial.

In July a Dickinson County jury convicted Kyle Ricke of first-degree murder for fatally shooting Algona police officer Kevin Cram. According to police, in September 2023 Cram was attempting to serve Ricke with an arrest warrant when Ricke pulled out a gun and shot Cram.

Past Coverage: Shooting death of Algona police officer Kevin Cram

On Monday Rickes defense team filed a motion for a new trial, stating that there was insufficient evidence to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that Defendant acted with malice aforethought or premeditation. The motion also claims that the roughly 90 seconds that passed from when Ricke walked away from Cram to when Ricke approached Cram again and the shots were fired, wasnt enough time for premeditation or malice aforethought to occur.

Ricke is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21 in Kossuth County.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A man who robbed a Wells Fargo bank in Bakersfield  and who has eight prior bank robbery convictions dating back to 1992  was sentenced Tuesday to a life term in prison.

Ray Fitzgerald Green received a sentence of 25 years to life plus 27 years and four months in prison, according to the District Attorneys Office.

Ray Green, file image

Green, 60, was found guilty of robbery, grand theft of property, recklessly evading a peace officer, possession of a gun by a felon and resisting a peace officer.

On the morning of Sept. 15, 2021, Green entered a Wells Fargo bank on California Avenue and handed the teller a note stating he had a gun and to hand over cash in large bills. The teller gave him money and he left.

Unbeknownst to Green, a tracking device was hidden among the bills.

Following the devices location, police caught up to a vehicle driven by Green that was heading north on Highway 99. A high-speed chase ensued, Greens vehicle reaching speeds of 140 mph as it weaved through traffic.

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The chase ended when Greens vehicle crashed into a tree and rolled over as he attempted to exit the highway at 13th Avenue in Delano.

Police recovered the exact amount of cash stolen, the note and tracking device.

Prosecutors say Green has been convicted of eight prior bank robberies, most of which happened in the San Francisco Bay 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 KGET 17.
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A man has been hospitalized following a drive-by shooting in Fresno on Tuesday afternoon, the Fresno Police Department said.

Officers say at 1:30 p.m., in the area of Cedar and Dakota Avenues, a man in his 30s and a woman were driving when another vehicle pulled up alongside them and fired at the car.

According to police, the man was hit at least once in the lower torso. They then drove to the hospital. He is listed in critical but stable condition.

Police say the suspect is a Hispanic man in a light-colored vehicle. They also say this appears to have been a continuation of an earlier disturbance between these parties at another unknown location.

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 YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)  A man was indicted in Chemung County after allegedly violating an order of protection.

According to the Chemung County District Attorneys Office, a grand jury indicted Alvin N. Broadnax, 40, on two counts of first-degree criminal contempt. Broadnax allegedly violated an order of protection on July 18 and 19, and officers from the Elmira Police Department arrested him on July 19.

Elmira man indicted on charges related to JCPenney burglary

The indictment says that on July 12, Bordaux received an order of protection that ordered him to stay away from an Elmira woman. The order was in effect for six months. Less than one week after it was issued, Broadnax allegedly knowingly violated the order by having an altercation with the woman on July 18.

The following day, Broadnax violated the order by going into the protected womans 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 WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Man in 'intimate relationship' with Detroit neurosurgeon charged in his murder: Prosecutor

A man in an "intimate relationship" with a Michigan neurosurgeon has been charged in the doctor's slaying, authorities announced Wednesday.

Dr. Devon Hoover, 53, was found shot dead in his Detroit home on April 23, 2023, prosecutors said. He was shot twice in the head and his body was found in the third-floor attic crawl space, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said.

"He was only wearing socks. He was wrapped in a blood-soaked carpet," Worthy said.

PHOTO: Dr. Devon Hoover, MD., in an undated photo from Ascension Michigan. (Ascension Michigan)

Police found the doctor when they responded to his home for a well-being check requested by the family after Hoover failed to show up to visit his dying mother in Indiana, Worthy said.

Cellphone analysis revealed Hoover had about 4,000 text messages with a man named Desmond Burks, with whom Hoover had an "intimate relationship," Worthy said at a news conference Wednesday.

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"On occasion, Desmond Burks would charge Dr. Hoover for these sexual services," Worthy said.

The day of the murder, the doctor's phone traveled from his home to the area of Burks' home, then back to his own home, and then back again to the area of Burks' home, Worthy said.

PHOTO: A Michigan doctor was found shot dead at a Detroit home, April 23, 2023. (WXYZ, FILE)

After the murder, Hoover's phone, wallet and two designer watches worth $6,000 and $7,500 were missing from his home, and multiple fraudulent financial transactions were made from the doctor's bank accounts, Worthy said. Hoover bought one of those watches one day before he was killed, she said.

"Physical evidence was discovered directly linking Dr. Hoover's property to Desmond Burks on the date of the homicide," Worthy said.

Burks, 34, faces charges including first-degree premeditated murder and possession of a firearm by a felon, Worthy said. He was also charged with larceny of over $20,000. Burks will be arraigned on Thursday, she said.

Burks also faces a second-degree murder charge in connection with an unrelated case -- a deadly road range incident, Worthy said. In May, a man's car bumped into the back of Burks' car, and after a verbal altercation, Burks allegedly punched the man and left him lying in the street, she said.

Hoover's family said in a statement, "Today, we feel relief for a step towards justice."

"He was an exceptional man -- a doctor, brother, son, uncle, and friend who invested in our lives with unwavering kindness and generosity," the family said. "Although nothing will ever reverse our loss, we are grateful that someone will be held accountable for Devons death."

Man in 'intimate relationship' with Detroit neurosurgeon charged in his murder: Prosecutor originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Man killed his girlfriend and his ex-girlfriend saw it, St. Clair County prosecutor says

As she struggled with her boyfriend moments before she was fatally shot on an East St. Louis street in June, Kenyatta Brown asked him, Why are you doing this to me?, a prosecutor said Wednesday.

Browns boyfriend, Robert Bobby E. Hyde Jr., 48, was arrested and indicted on a first-degree murder charge in Browns death, according to court records and St. Clair Assistants States Attorney Levi Carwile.

Illinois State Police said Brown, 42, was found shot to death on June 12 in the 1300 block of 45th Street in East St. Louis. Hyde was arrested on July 29.

St. Clair County Associate Judge Sara L. Rice conducted a detention hearing Wednesday for Hyde and ordered that he be held in the county jail until his trial.

Carwile said Hydes ex-girlfriend is a witness in the case. She had seen Hyde driving erratically and she followed him to the street where Hyde had stopped his truck at about 12:50 a.m.

Carwile told Rice that there was a struggle between Hyde and Brown in Hydes Dodge Ram pickup truck and that Hyde had pulled Brown out of the truck by her feet. Her purse fell to the street in the struggle and Hyde fired a gunshot toward her feet, Carwile said.

A witness heard another gunshot and Carwile said this shot hit Brown above her left eye. Brown was pronounced deceased on the scene by the St. Clair County Coroners Office.

After the shooting, Hyde left the scene but returned a short time later before police arrived in an effort to get his ex-girlfriend to leave before police arrived, Carwile said. Hyde then left the scene again, the prosecutor said.

St. Clair County Assistant Public Defender Satchel Conroy, representing Hyde in the detention hearing, told Rice that one of the witnesses cited by the state is a jealous ex of my client.

Conroy also argued that Brown initially had a gun, stating, You cant pull guns on people.

Conroy described the prosecutors case as  far fetched.

Carwile responded that a witness said Hyde had the firearm prior to the shooting and that at one point Hyde had told Brown, Dont make me use my gun.

Neither Carwile nor Conroy released information to Rice about what caused the altercation between Brown and Hyde.

Conroy unsuccessfully asked Rice to allow Hyde to leave the county jail and order him to wear an electronic monitoring device before his trial. Hyde has worked in the construction business for 30 years and has financially supported his 14-year-old son, Conroy said.

A July Illinois State Police news release said Hyde was from Belleville but an agency spokeswoman said Wednesday Hyde was homeless at the time of his arrest in Caseyville. The indictment states Hydes home street address was in East St. Louis. He was being held in the St. Clair County Jail Wednesday.

As part of the states revamped criminal justice system that ended cash bail on Sept. 18, judges now conduct detention hearings to determine whether someone should remain in jail until their trial on cases involving serious charges. Rice ruled that Hydes detention was necessary to prevent a threat to any person or person in the community.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man charged with murder for an April 2023 shooting death on the North Side pleaded guilty Wednesday to a reduced charge in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.

Elijah May, 19, pleaded guilty before Judge Maureen Sweeney to a count of involuntary manslaughter for the April 11, 2023, shooting death of RayMon Sims, 22.

May also pleaded guilty to one count of improper discharge of a firearm at or into a habitation, a second-degree felony and a firearm specification.

Sentencing will be Monday. The attorneys are recommending a sentence of six to seven and a half years.

Sims was driving a car when he was shot, and the car crashed into a house on Alameda Avenue. He then ran to a house on Crandall Avenue before he collapsed. He was found by police and paramedics and taken to St. Elizabeth Health Center, where he died from his wounds.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Man responds to multi-vehicle crash on I-635 in Dallas by stabbing a person involved

A man is facing charges of aggravated assault after he got into a fight after a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 635, stabbed a bystander, stole vehicles, and struck other drivers on uesday morning in northeast Dallas, according to police.

The crash and assaults shut down the freeway for about four hours and reopened around 11 a.m.

The initial crash was reported at 7:15 a.m. on westbound I-635 near Forest Lane, Star-Telegram media partner, WFAA-TV reported.

All of the westbound main lanes of the highway, including the two shoulder lanes, were blocked off in the area, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.

Angel Zamora Moreno, 26, started fighting one of the other drivers following the crash, Dallas police told WFAA. Another driver in the multi-vehicle crash intervened and attempted to stop the fight when they were stabbed by Moreno, police said.

A TxDOT employee witnessed the crash and also stopped to assist, according to WFAA. Moreno then got into the employees vehicle, hit them and crashed, police said.

Another driver witnessed the incident and stopped to help, according to WFAA. Moreno then entered that drivers vehicle and struck them, authorities told WFAA.

Moreno was arrested and charged with seven counts of aggravated assault, two counts of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and one count of criminal mischief.

Three people were transported by Dallas Fire-Rescue to the hospital. The driver who was stabbed was in critical condition, police told WFAA. The other two victims were said to be in stable condition.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with video or information of the crash and assaults are asked to contact Dallas Police Detective Marc Tucker at 214-671-3621 or at marctucker@dallaspolice.gov.
Man sentenced for string of armed robberies in Albuquerque

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  A man was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for committing a series of armed robberies in Albuquerque while he was on supervised release for a previous federal conviction.

Driver dies in collision with Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office unit

Brandon Sanchez, 30, of Albuquerque, committed the following robberies in Albuquerque in 2023:

Jan. 4, 2023  Little Ceasars at Montgomery Boulevard and San Pedro Drive

Jan. 4, 2023  Subway at San Mateo Boulevard and McLeod Road

Jan. 8, 2023  Little Ceasars at Montano Road and Fourth Street

Jan. 9, 2023  Starbucks at San Mateo Boulevard and Pan American Frontage Road

Jan. 9, 2023  Big 5 Sporting Goods at Wyoming Boulevard and Paseo del Norte

Jan. 9, 2023  Dominos at Holly Avenue and San Pedro Drive

Law enforcement connected Sanchez to the string of robberies after reviewing surveillance footage from Big 5 Sporting Goods that they say provided a clear view of his face. On Jan.10, 2023, the Albuquerque Police Department tracked Sanchez to a Motel 6 on Pan American. In his room, authorities discovered a black Glock magazine, 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a demand note, a black wig, a toy BB gun, and two flannel shirts matching descriptions from the robberies.

When released from prison, Sanchez will have to undergo three years of supervised release.

Sanchez was previously charged federally for being a felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to 27 months in prison.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA)  A man has died after being shot in an apparent drive-by shooting in Anderson County.

The Anderson County Coroners Office said on Thursday, August 1, 23-year-old Aaron Joel Belton, of Anderson, was inside his residence on Newell Street when he was hit by gunfire by a passing vehicle.

Anderson County officials responded to the scene before 2 a.m. Emergency personnel took Belton to AnMed Health where he later succumbed to his injuries on Friday, August 2.

{Deputy Coroner Tyjuan Blackwell, Anderson County Coroners Office}

He did succumb to his injuries Friday where he was pronounced but due to organ procurement Tuesday thats when his organs were taken for donation, said Tyjuan Blackwell.

Beltons death has been ruled a homicide according to the coroner.

No information regarding any suspect(s) has been released at this time.

The investigation is ongoing by the Anderson County Coroners Office and the

Anderson Police Department.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said a man was shot in Southwest D.C. on Wednesday morning.

MPD said that at about 9:38 a.m., it was dispatched to Forrester Street and Galveston Place for a shooting.

Woman, dog escape after vehicle goes into pond in Bowie, police investigating

When police arrived at the scene, they found a man who had been shot. He was conscious and breathing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
FREEPORT, Ill. (WTVO)  Freeport Police are working to identify a man who threw a rock through the doors of the police department on Sunday.

According to police, the suspect  who was seen wearing a blue jacket with no shirt and dark pants  walked up to the Freeport Police Department and threw the projectile through one of the glass doors.

Photo: Freeport Police Department

He then walked back in the direction he came, in the area of Cherry Avenue and Exchange Street.

Damage to the public building carries a charge of Criminal Damage to Property.

Police released a surveillance photo of the suspect, and asks that anyone with information on the assailants identity call police or Stateline Area Crime Stoppers at 1-866-TIPS NOW.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
Man in Wisconsin accused of threatening to stab gas station employee after not being able to fill up

MADISON, Wis. (WFRV)  Officers in southern Wisconsin were sent to a gas station after a man allegedly threatened to stab an employee after he wasnt able to use the gas pumps on Monday.

A release provided by the Madison Police Department states that the incident began around 10 p.m. on August 5 when an employee at a local gas station was closing up the store and had already turned off the pumps when the suspect arrived.

Sheriffs office in Wisconsin has busy weekend, makes 16 OWI arrests

Officers were subsequently called to the gas station along the 1000 block of North Sherman Avenue to help with the incident.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The release notes that the man became angry and reportedly mentioned he had a knife. Officers say the man then allegedly threatened to stab the gas station employee. However, he had left before officers arrived.

Authorities in Wisconsin searching for two suspects after alleged home invasion

The investigation into the incident is ongoing and no arrests have ben made.

No additional information was provided.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
CAMPBELL, Ohio (WKBN)- A man and woman from Campbell turned themselves in on child-endangering charges on Tuesday, according to police.

Read next: Watch live as Realty Building demolition continues in Youngstown

Alexander Mercado and Minellis Rivera are both being charged with child endangering, a third-degree felony.

Police reports said that a child abuse investigation began on April 19 when they took their three-month-old child to the hospital for what police reports said was respiratory distress. Police reports said that the child was sick and would receive more testing.

After X-rays, police said that it was revealed that the child had a clavicle fracture, a healing tibia and fibula, and 10 fractures. Police said that it was concluded that these injuries were not determined by medical deformities at birth.

Reports said that Children Services is involved with the case and a police report was filed.

Reports said that on Tuesday Mercado and Rivera turned themselves in on an active warrant for child endangering. According to court staff, both of them were arraigned on $25,000 bond.

Court staff said Rivera bonded out and that Mercado is still in the Mahoning County Jail. Both of them have a court hearing on Friday, August 16 at 9 a.m.

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Cameron, Tx (FOX 44)  One man was wounded after a Cameron police officer fired a shot as officers and deputies responded to a report of shots fired in Cameron on Wednesday morning.

Milam County Sheriffs Office spokesman Brett Eberhart said it happened just before noon in the 1500 block of Jackson Street.

Milam County deputies helped secure the scene and learned that a man was shot in the hand. They also learned that a Cameron Police officer discharged his weapon at the man. Deputies secured the scene, and have requested Texas Rangers to investigate the matter.

Man dead in Killeen officer-involved shooting

Camerons Yoe High School was having a convocation at the time, and was placed on soft lockdown for a short time.

Milam County Sheriff Mike Clore said there was no danger to the public.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44.
The only Planned Parenthood clinic in Manhattan announced it would no longer be performing abortions after 20 weeks due to financial issues, according to a report.

The clinic will temporarily stop providing abortions after 20 weeks and will halt deep sedation for patients during intrauterine devices (IUD) insertion and surgical abortions, the nonprofits state chapter spokesperson told The Independent in a statement. The changes, first reported by The City, will begin on September 3.

Planned Parenthood of Greater New York currently uses a contracted anesthesia vendor for the Manhattan Health Center  the only such vendor we use across our health centers in New York State. The nonprofit covers 100 per cent of the vendors contract costs and is unable to do so any longer, the spokesperson continued.

The Manhattan Health Center, located downtown on Bleecker Street, is the only Planned Parenthood clinic in the city to offer the procedure up to 20 weeks, according to Abortion Finder. However, several other clinics in the city and state still offer the procedure up to that benchmark.

We are thankfully one of numerous abortion providers in NYC, the spokesperson said. We are fortunate to be part of an ecosystem of local care options.

Less than 2 per cent of all of the abortions performed at the Planned Parenthood Greater New Yorks clinics occur after 20 weeks, a spokesperson told the New York Times. Planned Parenthood also plans to close four clinics across the state, the outlet reported.

The gestational limit of 19 weeks and 6 days is temporary. Patients who need abortion later in pregnancy are among the most vulnerable among the communities we serve, the statement said, adding that Planned Parenthood of Greater New York was heartbroken by the change.

In the state, abortion is legal for up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. After that point, there are exceptions to obtaining the procedure if the fetus is not viable or the patients life, physical health, or mental health is at risk.

Manhattans only Planned Parenthood clinic will stop providing abortions after 20 weeks starting in September (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

For IUD insertions, patients will still be able to receive moderate sedations and other pain management, the spokesperson said.

The states chapter cited rising Medicaid reimbursement rates for the temporary reduction in services.:Despite both the Senate and Assembly indicating support for increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates for medication abortion, they ultimately failed to include it in the budget. This is deeply disappointing and is part of a more widespread health care reimbursement problem. PPGNY is not in this alone. The spokesperson continued: The abortion care ecosystem in New York is facing financial distress.

The news comes two years after the Dobbs decision, in which the Supreme Court overturned the right to abortion, complicating the abortion landscape across the country.

Since the landmark decision, 14 states have enacted total abortion bans. Dozens of other states have put some bans in place. For patients, these state bans have led to financial and medical barriers to access reproductive health care. For providers, the bans vague language has created chaos and confusion for how to treat patients.

Since Roe was overturned, the number of reproductive-age women who reported trying to end pregnancies by themselves rose from 2.4 per cent to 3.3 per cent, before and after the courts June 2022 decision, research shows.

In 2023, more than 170,000 patients traveled to obtain abortion care, the New York Times reported in June. In 2023, nearly 6,000 patients traveled to New York for the procedure, according to data from the Guttmacher Institute.
The subdued stock price reaction suggests that Dominant Enterprise Berhad's (KLSE:DOMINAN) strong earnings didn't offer any surprises. Investors are probably missing some underlying factors which are encouraging for the future of the company.

See our latest analysis for Dominant Enterprise Berhad

Examining Cashflow Against Dominant Enterprise Berhad's Earnings

One key financial ratio used to measure how well a company converts its profit to free cash flow (FCF) is the accrual ratio. To get the accrual ratio we first subtract FCF from profit for a period, and then divide that number by the average operating assets for the period. The ratio shows us how much a company's profit exceeds its FCF.

That means a negative accrual ratio is a good thing, because it shows that the company is bringing in more free cash flow than its profit would suggest. While having an accrual ratio above zero is of little concern, we do think it's worth noting when a company has a relatively high accrual ratio. Notably, there is some academic evidence that suggests that a high accrual ratio is a bad sign for near-term profits, generally speaking.

Dominant Enterprise Berhad has an accrual ratio of -0.11 for the year to March 2024. That implies it has good cash conversion, and implies that its free cash flow solidly exceeded its profit last year. In fact, it had free cash flow of RM73m in the last year, which was a lot more than its statutory profit of RM16.5m. Dominant Enterprise Berhad shareholders are no doubt pleased that free cash flow improved over the last twelve months.

Note: we always recommend investors check balance sheet strength. Click here to be taken to our balance sheet analysis of Dominant Enterprise Berhad.

Our Take On Dominant Enterprise Berhad's Profit Performance

As we discussed above, Dominant Enterprise Berhad has perfectly satisfactory free cash flow relative to profit. Based on this observation, we consider it likely that Dominant Enterprise Berhad's statutory profit actually understates its earnings potential! And on top of that, its earnings per share have grown at 10% per year over the last three years. Of course, we've only just scratched the surface when it comes to analysing its earnings; one could also consider margins, forecast growth, and return on investment, among other factors. If you want to do dive deeper into Dominant Enterprise Berhad, you'd also look into what risks it is currently facing. Case in point: We've spotted 3 warning signs for Dominant Enterprise Berhad you should be mindful of and 1 of these is a bit unpleasant.

Story continues

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of Dominant Enterprise Berhad's profit. But there are plenty of other ways to inform your opinion of a company. Some people consider a high return on equity to be a good sign of a quality business. 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.

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
Mansfield City Council voted once again Tuesday to delay repealing existing prohibitions regarding medical marijuana, but not before some members blasted the administration for not having zoning legislation ready.

Council was scheduled to vote on the measure at its previous meeting but ended up holding the measure until Tuesday. At the previous meeting, Mansfield Mayor Jodie Perry assured members the zoning legislation would be available for this session.

July 16: Mansfield City Council recognizes fire captain who worked for city for 28 years

Councilwoman Deborah Mount, the sponsor of the bill, proposed delaying the vote until the next meeting Aug. 20, drawing immediate opposition from colleagues Stephanie Zader and Cheryl Meier.

As of Wednesday morning, a special meeting has been scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday to consider the issue.

"We were told that it was going to here for us," Zader said of the zoning language, "and we have several people looking to make investments in our city. We talk about the need for economic development in this city on a regular basis, the need for creation of jobs, the need for places that create sales tax.

"I do not support the motion to do that (delay vote). That sounds like that's an administrative issue."

Councilwomen Zader, Meier oppose delaying vote

Zader proposed passing the measure and figure out the zoning issue for the next meeting.

Stephanie Zader

"It does not sound like an 'us' problem," the at-large councilwoman said.

Meier was also critical.

"I'm just very disappointed that we don't have anything to at least look at," she said. "I think it's completely unacceptable. ... It's totally unacceptable.

"I know this administration has got to have some ideas on what they're thinking, and I agree with Councilwoman Zader that we are holding up the process. We have voted to allow recreational facilities in the city of Mansfield, and we are just clogging up the pipeline."

Council voted 5-3 in June not to impose a six-month moratorium on marijuana dispensaries.

Cheryl Meier

"They are coming; it's going to happen," Meier said. "I question whether something else is going on behind the scenes.

"If we don't really want this, if we want to prolong it, therefore the dispensaries will choose other locations. I'm very, very disappointed, and I don't support postponing this vote."

Zader accused the previous administration of preventing marijuana dispensaries from coming to the city.

"They circumvented this group and pushed their agenda through, and that's exactly what this feels like," she said.

Keith Porch

Safety-service director says city gets one chance to get zoning right

Keith Porch, safety-service director, defended the delay in getting zoning language to council.

"In regards to dealing with zoning, we have one chance to get that right," he said. "There were drafts of zoning that went to planning commission. Ultimately, it was decided after speaking to the law director to have outside legal counsel that have dealt with this topic make sure that they review ultimately what it is that we want to send in front of council."

Porch added the administration had no intention of "playing games."

"The problem is we're going to miss out because we're not prepared," Zader countered.

Porch said the city has been inundated with marijuana dispensaries wanting to come to Mansfield. He added they have been given a standard response that the zoning is not yet in place.

"Ultimately, we want to protect the city against litigation," Porch said. "It is not the intention to hold up any business."

Zader, whose background is in real estate, said businesses operate on timelines and might bypass Mansfield for other locations.

"This isn't to beat up on anybody, but we were told this would be ready so that we could move forward," she said.

Porch replied, "I'm not going to move for the sake of investors coming into the city. My concern is for the city."

Jodie Perry

Mayor says zoning language has 'taken longer than expected'

Perry did not attend Tuesday's meeting, but she did address council via Zoom. She said she understood council's frustration.

"It (zoning language) has taken longer than expected," Perry said. "I totally expected to be at this meeting with the legislation."

She added that no one was trying to hold up economic development.

"I don't want people to be buying properties that ultimately won't qualify," Perry said. "To be honest with you, I thought the six-month moratorium was going to pass. It changed the trajectory and the speed at which we have to do this, but I want to be sure we're doing this right.

"It's going to impact generations to come."

Recommendations from outside counsel arrived with the law director's office late Tuesday. Zader proposed holding a special meeting, perhaps later this week. Porch said he was not opposed.

Mount questioned giving the public more time to offer opinions.

"They've had plenty of time, and we've had lots of input," Zader said.

Councilman El Akuchie recommended following the opinion of the administration. He added he would not support having a meeting this week.

Council ended up voting on a motion to consider the bill Aug. 20. The vote was 4-3 in favor, with Zader, Meier and Councilwoman Laura Burns dissenting.

In the public comment portion of the meeting, a representative from RJK Holdings of Ohio said the company has secured property rights at 1515 Lexington Ave. in the former Ace Hardware building for a marijuana dispensary, adding the company also has been approved by the Division of Cannabis Control.

mcaudill@gannett.com

419-521-7219

X: @MarkCau32059251

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Mansfield City Council postpones vote on marijuana dispensaries
Marijuana projects move forward in Pinckney  but not without debate

PINCKNEY  Pinckney advanced plans for two recreational marijuana businesses on Monday, but representatives did so reluctantly.

The Pinckney Planning Commission ultimately voted to re-approve a final site plan for The Means Project  a cannabis retail store, growing and processing facility at the former Pinckney Elementary at 935 M-36.

The commission also approved preliminary site plans for Essence, a proposed marijuana microbusiness with a planned retail showroom and grow room, plus storage and processing. The development is proposed for a vacant plot at 1268 E. M-36 between Wendy's and Taco Bell.

The planning commission will need to approve a final site plan for Essence in the future.

Construction is expected soon resume at The Means Project, 935 M-36 in Pinckney.

The Means Project sparks concerns

At first, commissioners voted 4-2 to deny The Means Project, without anyone explaining why. Vice Chair Joe Hartman and Council President Linda Lavey voted "yes" the first time around.

Near the end of the meeting, Hartman encouraged commissioners to take another vote. Following discussion of some of the commissioners' concerns, they decided to approve with contingencies 5-1. Chair Christine Oliver voted "no" the second time around.

A previously approved site plan expired after long construction delays and a legal dispute. The plans didn't change between lapsing and reappearing before the commission.

Jacob Kahn, an attorney for The Means Project, appeared taken aback Monday after the commission first voted to deny the plan.

Kahn pointed out that village officials had already approved a one-year extension of a special land use permit, "which was a prerequisite for this final site plan approval," he said.

"I'd like a better understanding of why," Kahn said Monday.

"We are not actually allowed to vote 'no,' like, that would be illegal," Hartman said later in the meeting.

"It would probably get us sued," Lavey said, chiming in. "I also hate that marijuana has come to town, but people voted, so it's here. It's a legal business. They have a site plan that was already approved. So, what's stopping us tonight?"

Oliver and Commissioner Alex Smith expressed doubt developers will actually finish construction.

"Given the history and the track record, that's where my concerns come from," Smith said.

Commissioner Trisha Wagner said she originally voted "no" because she was concerned about traffic.

Village Zoning Administrator Julie Durkin reminded the commission The Means Project has lined up a new general contractor and there will be a performance guarantee. She also reminded them the Michigan Department of Transportation oversees traffic on M-36.

Commissioners then voted to approve.

An architectural rendering shows Essence, a proposed recreational marijuana microbusiness under consideration in Pinckney.

A preliminary plan for Essence

Northville resident Marco Lytwyn of Pinckney Developments, LLC, proposed Essence, an approximately 3,200-square-foot Class A microbusiness. In Michigan, microbusinesses are permitted to grow up to 300 plants on-site to process and sell.

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Some commissioners were reluctant, but voted 5-1 to approve. Smith was the "no" vote.

Commissioner Deborah Grischke was concerned about traffic generation and questioned a report predicting only about 100 vehicles a day. She also wanted more information about potential impacts to the watershed after a member of the public expressed concerns about Honey Creek, located near the proposed site.

Lytwyn will need to work through some contingencies, including a third-party traffic study and county approval of a plan for drainage, among other conditions.

 Contact reporter Jennifer Eberbach at jeberbach@livingstondaily.com.

This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: The Means Project, Essence move forward in Pinckney
Mark Robinson and I grew up poor and Black in the South. But we learned different lessons. | Opinion

I used to be angry with Mark Robinson, the North Carolina Republican Partys choice for governor. After giving it considerable thought, I pity him more. Hes a little boy inside a grown mans body.

Because hes atop the ticket in North Carolina, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has a good chance to win the state. His extremism has given many pause, including fellow Republicans.

For me, its deeper. Robinson has been using his identity as a Black man who overcame struggles to appeal votes.

All my life, Ive known men like him. I am one.

Issac Bailey

Robinson grew up in rural North Carolina when official desegregation was ending. I grew up in rural South Carolina when official desegregation was ending. Robinson grew up poor, the ninth of 10 children. I grew up poor, the fifth of 11 children.

His father was a drunk who abused his mother. My father was a drunk who abused my mother. His mom made a way for the family despite a fifth-grade education. My mom made a way for us despite dropping out of elementary school to work in cotton fields to help her parents make ends meet.

Robinson worked in the manufacturing industry and credits Christianity for making it through.

Growing up, I picked tobacco and cucumbers. I sold concessions and swept up popcorn at movie theaters alongside teenagers after I earned my Davidson College degree, and I credit Christianity for helping me make it through tough times.

If Robinson grew up in extreme poverty, his family may have relied upon the government the way my family did: long-rectangular boxes of government cheese, free lunches in school, free lunches during the summer, Pell grant access, welfare benefits and the like. Even if his family didnt receive help directly, every poor family  heck, most American families  receive some sort of government assistance.

Theres nothing wrong with getting the help you need. Its just that Robinson may have joined a long line of critics who have long relied upon government largess but want to pull up the ladder behind them. Not only that, it seems nearly every time a new revelation about something untoward Robinson said or his family was involved in, he falls back on the same, tired defense  that hes being unfairly persecuted by a liberal media or Democrat party officials.

Recent reports show he didnt pay taxes for years and filed for repeated bankruptcies. He and his wife sold a child care center they operated amid an investigation by the states Department of Health and Human Services that unearthed numerous violations. He made recent comments in a church declaring that Some folks need killing. His family owes the state $132,000 for suspicious expenses for a nonprofit they ran that received more than $830,000 in taxpayer money for salaries. And there are his anti-Black and antisemitic rants.

I want no one to get the impression from Robinsons story that those of us whove faced hardships lose our sense of integrity. Sure, weve faced extra struggles, unfair hurdles. But most of us who grew up poor and Black in the South were taught we had to be twice as good to get half as far. That we had to live excuse-free lives. That because we were on the wrong side of structural imbalances, we could not expect to receive the benefit of doubt very often. Thats where we diverge from Robinson, whose life shows he has repeatedly thumbed his nose at such values.

Robinson is right that growing up in such circumstances makes it more difficult for us in adulthood, even after weve overcome. We dont have the natural safety net that those more fortunate are privy to. That should not be discounted, no matter your political views.

It doesnt mean we are more prone to make the kinds of mistakes Robinson has. Having to struggle didnt make us lose a sense of right and wrong. Something else made Robinson lose his.

Issac Bailey is a McClatchy Opinion writer in North and South Carolina.
SILVER SPRING, Maryland  A federal appeals court on Tuesday upheld Marylands decade-old ban on military-style firearms commonly referred to as assault weapons.

A majority of 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals judges rejected gun rights groups arguments that Marylands 2013 law is unconstitutional under the Second Amendment.

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to review this case in May, when the full 4th Circuit was still considering it. Maryland officials argued the Supreme Court should defer to the lower court before taking any action, but the plaintiffs said the appeals court was taking too long to rule.

Maryland passed the sweeping gun-control measure after a 20-year-old gunman killed 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut in 2012. It bans dozens of firearms  including the AR-15, the AK-47 and the Barrett .50-caliber sniper rifle  and puts a 10-round limit on gun magazines.

The Firearms Policy Coalition Inc., one of the plaintiffs challenging Marylands law, said it would again ask the Supreme Court to review the case.

Our objective is simple: End all bans on so-called assault weapons nationwide. And we look forward to doing just that, coalition president Brandon Combs said in a statement.

The 4th Circuits full roster of judges agreed to consider the case after a three-judge panel heard oral arguments but hadnt yet issued a ruling.

The weapons banned by Marylands law fall outside Second Amendment protection because they are essentially military-style weapons designed for sustained combat operations that are ill-suited and disproportionate to the need for self-defense, Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson III wrote in the courts majority opinion.

Moreover, the Maryland law fits comfortably within our nations tradition of firearms regulation, Wilkinson wrote. 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.

Eight other 4th Circuit judges joined Wilkinsons majority opinion. Five other judges from the Virginia-based appeals court joined in a dissenting opinion.

The laws opponents argue its unconstitutional because such weapons are already in common use. In his dissenting opinion, Judge Julius Richardson said the courts majority misconstrues the nature of the banned weapons to demean their lawful functions and exaggerate their unlawful uses.

The Second Amendment is not a second-class right subject to the whimsical discretion of federal judges. Its mandate is absolute and, applied here, unequivocal, Richardson wrote.

Wilkinson said the dissenting judges are in favor of creating a near absolute Second Amendment right in a near vacuum, striking a profound blow to the basic obligation of government to ensure the safety of the governed.

Arms upon arms would be permitted in what can only be described as a stampede toward the disablement of our democracy in these most dangerous of times, Wilkinson wrote.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown praised the courts decision.

The Courts decision today will save lives, Brown said in a statement. Access to weapons of war that have no place in our communities causes senseless and preventable deaths.

The latest challenge to the assault weapons ban comes under consideration following a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision that effected a sea change in Second Amendment law. That 6-3 decision signified a major expansion of gun rights following a series of mass shootings.

With its conservative justices in the majority and liberals in dissent, the court struck down a New York law and said Americans have a right to carry firearms in public for self-defense. It also required gun policies to fall in line with the countrys historical tradition of firearm regulation.

The 4th Circuit previously declared the ban constitutional in a 2017 ruling, saying the guns banned under Marylands law arent protected by the Second Amendment.

Put simply, we have no power to extend Second Amendment protections to weapons of war, Judge Robert King wrote for the court in that majority opinion, calling the law precisely the type of judgment that legislatures are allowed to make without second-guessing by a court.

The court heard oral arguments in the latest challenge in March. Its one of two cases on gun rights out of Maryland that the federal appeals court took up around the same time. The other is a challenge to Marylands handgun licensing requirements.

Separately, a federal judge last week ruled that a 2023 Maryland law cant prohibit licensed gun owners from carrying firearms in bars and restaurants and in private buildings without the owners permission. However, Chief U.S. District Judge George Russell upheld other gun restrictions in the state law. Those include bans on carrying firearms in health care facilities, schools, government buildings, amusement parks, mass transit facilities, race tracks, casinos, museums, state parks and stadiums.

Maryland lawmakers approved the law last year in response to the U.S. Supreme Court decision that struck down a New York law that was very similar to Marylands good and substantial reason standard for permits to carry concealed handguns.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb announced Tuesday that a Maryland-based pest control company must pay more than $130,000 for polluting D.C. with toxic chemicals.

The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) accused Kenmore Pest Control and Termite Services LLC, also known as Kenmore, of illegally applying pesticides in D.C.

Despite being a Maryland-based company, Kenmore regularly works in the District and employs around 20 people.

Howard University receives $175 million endowment from Bloomberg

The OAG said the companys practices endangered residents and damaged the citys natural resources. Under a settlement agreement, Kenmore must pay $137,006 in penalties and environmental clean-up fees.

Investigation revealed that Kenmore violated D.C. law by improperly applying highly toxic pesticides around apartment complexes in Ward 1 and 7, specifically at Mayfair Mansion Apartments and Columbia Heights Village, according to Schwalb.

Schwalb said that at Columbia Heights Village, workers applied a dangerous pesticide to areas accessible to children and pets. At Mayfair Mansion, Kenmore applied a chemical that was harmful to humans and highly toxic to birds, fish and wildlife. The District intervened, incurring over $12,000 in expenses to clean the soil.

The OAG also alleged that Kenmore violated the law by misleading customers and allowing employees without legally required licenses to apply pesticides.

In addition to the penalties, the company must enter a three-year probationary period, and employees will be prohibited from applying pesticides until they receive eight hours of training in pest management from a course approved by D.C., Maryland or Virginia.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP)  State officials visited Northampton on Tuesday in celebration of Massachusetts Farmers Market Week.

Farmers markets across the state are receiving recognition this week for supporting local communities and farmers.

Tuesday Market in Northampton has local businesses and farms from across Hampshire County every Tuesday afternoon from April to November. The commissioner of the Department of Agricultural Resources, Ashley Randle, highlighted the relationship between these markets and the communities they serve.

In terms of connecting consumers to their local farms, the farmers market is a great way to learn where food comes from, where they can visit their local farms beyond the market to purchase local food, which is nutritious and healthy, and to be able to access the nutrition programs that the state provides, said Randle.

National Farmers Market Week is especially apparent here in Northampton, where Tuesday market hosts about 30 vendors every week, and about 500 to 1000 people come looking for fresh produce.

Massachusetts is home to 200 summer and fall farmers markets throughout the year. State government programs, such as SNAP, allow EBT users to double the amount of money they would normally spend at a grocery on local produce.

Farmers market manager Helen Kahn described how the citys culture contributes to their success, Part of the culture of Northampton allows there to be a vibrant market on a Tuesday afternoon thats for sure, the fact that we can support 3 farmers markets in this one area is pretty fantastic.

Farmers market weekends on August 10th.

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Lincoln, NH- A Massachusetts man died while being brought to the hospital after having a medical emergency on the Kingsman Ridge Trail in New Hampshire on Monday afternoon.

Fish and Game Officials say the hiker, a 52-year-old man from Topsfield, MA, was with his family when the medical emergency happened around 2 p.m. They were between the summits of North and South Peaks on the Kingsman Ridge Trail, which is roughly four miles from the nearest trailhead.

The NH Army National Guard was called to see if they could help with the rescue. An NH Army National Guard Blackhaw team was able to reach the hiker around 3:55 p.m., and he was brought to a waiting ambulance but died while being brought to a hospital.

The hikers name is not being released until the family is notified.

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Those impacted by the rampant wildfires that devastated Maui, Hawaii last year can expect to receive some compensation soon thanks to a $4bn settlement  but some fear it could absolve those who should be held responsible.

On Friday, plaintiffs and defendants in the lawsuit came to a proposed agreement in which Hawaiin Electric, the largest electricity supplier in the state, would pay $1.99bn of the settlement. But the terms of the settlement do not include an admission of liability.

News of the settlement is a relief for the more than 10,000 people impacted by the wildfires that ravaged Maui last August. Thousands of homes and businesses were burned across the more than 6,000 acres of land the fires impacted. More than 100 people were killed.

A general view shows the aftermath of a wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii on Aug 21, 2023  survivors of the fire could see compensation soon (AP)

But for some, like Lahaina resident Sanford Hill, there are fears that the settlement will provide much-needed relief without holding those responsible accountable.

They want to settle this before the [attorney generals] report comes out, the next one they want to settle before the [Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms] report comes out. Before the truth comes out, Hill told Hawaii News Now.

An aerial view of the recovering historic banyan tree and surrounding area located in Lahaina shows the devastation caused by rampant wildfires last August (Getty Images)

Two separate investigations, one led by the Hawaii attorney generals office and another by the ATF, are currently probing the cause of the fires.

Although the exact cause is still under investigation, many accused Hawaiian Electric of contributing to the fires by not turning off their power despite warnings of fire risks due to dry conditions and strong winds.

Sanford Hill, a resident of Lahaina, told Hawaii News Now he was skeptical of the Maui wildfire settlement (Hawaii News Now)

Last year, videos of downed power lines alighting dried vegetation circulated social media, escalating accusations.

Other factors contributed to the mass tragedy. Many residents reported not receiving an emergency alert telling them to evacuate the area due to failed cell phone service. Other reports accused firefighters of failing to completely extinguish one of the original fires.

Ultimately, residents in Lahaina, an area of Maui, found themselves cornered, between raging fires that blocked off access to the rest of the island and the ocean. Some were forced to flee into the ocean and watch as the fires tore through their home.

Survivors of the fires who lost their homes and belongings hoped compensation would come quickly but large settlements of this nature typically take years to finalize.

A volunteer from Samaritan's Purse helps a daughter search for family items in the rubble of her mother's home destroyed in the wildfires (Getty Images)

The proposed agreement happened much faster than expected. Shelee Kimura, the president and CEO of Hawaiian Electric said in a press release that the resolution was met to avoid added challenges and divisiveness of the litigation process

Hawaiian Electrics commitment to our communities is unwavering, and we are resolved to be here for Lahaina for as long as it takes. Our objective is to make sure a tragedy like this never happens again and we mahalo many partners who are working with us shoulder to shoulder to ensure Hawaiis communities are safe and resilient, Kimura said.
NEW YORK  Mayor Eric Adams suggested Tuesday that senior NYPD official Kaz Daughtry might need to be communicated with for getting into the face of a Daily News reporter and berating him for recent coverage of the Police Department.

Speaking during a news conference at City Hall, Adams said he was unaware of the incident but Daughtry might get a talking-to if its determined he responded inappropriately during last weeks incident with Rocco Parascandola, The News longtime police bureau chief.

We all have to respond appropriately and if he responded inappropriately he will be communicated with about that. I expect a higher standard from all of us, Adams said of Daughtry, the NYPDs deputy commissioner of operations.

This is a stressful job. Im sure he was under a lot of stress having two cops being shot, Adams added. Sometimes we forget the human part of responding to these scenes. Kaz Daughtry is up late at night. Hes responding to children being shot, hes responding to some of the most horrific conditions that you can imagine a person to experience. And he has to have the level of professionalism that comes with that.

Adams was responding to a question after the Daily News union earlier Tuesday posted an open letter on X demanding Daughtry apologize for his actions.

After Adams news conference, the NYPD press office didnt return a request for comment on whether Daughtry has spoken with Adams, but put out an unsigned statement on X attacking Parascandola along personal lines.

In a statement, Andrew Julien, The News executive editor, blasted the NYPDs unwarranted broadside against Parascandola.

New York Daily News reporter Rocco Parascandola is a respected veteran and this unwarranted broadside by the NYPD only underscores his professionalism, Julien said. I have reached out directly to senior department officials to discuss the proper treatment of our staff in the wake of the inappropriate confrontation at issue here and appreciate the Daily News unions support of that goal. We do find it distressing, however, that the department has responded to the situation by issuing a personal attack against our police bureau chief.

The NYPDs unsigned statement claimed last Thursdays incident was set off by Parascandola picking a childish argument with Daughtry inside Bellevue Hospital at a Police Department briefing about two police sergeants who were wounded in a shooting.

The statement was disputed by multiple eyewitnesses who told The News the incident unfolded outside the hospital after Daughtry approached Parascandola following the briefing and got aggressive while complaining to him about a recent story he broke about two NYPD SUVs, one used by Daughtry, racking up dozens of moving violations.

The interaction got so tense other NYPD officers twice intervened to deescalate the situation after Daughtry got in Parascandolas face, eyewitnesses said.

_____
Sonic Automotive (NYSE:SAH) Second Quarter 2024 Results

Key Financial Results

Revenue: US$3.45b (down 5.5% from 2Q 2023).

Net income: US$41.2m (up 76% from 2Q 2023).

Profit margin: 1.2% (up from 0.6% in 2Q 2023). The increase in margin was driven by lower expenses.

EPS: US$1.21 (up from US$0.66 in 2Q 2023).

All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period

Sonic Automotive Revenues and Earnings Miss Expectations

Revenue missed analyst estimates by 3.1%. Earnings per share (EPS) also missed analyst estimates by 12%.

Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to grow 7.0% p.a. on average during the next 3 years, compared to a 4.8% growth forecast for the Specialty Retail industry in the US.

Performance of the American Specialty Retail industry.

The company's share price is broadly unchanged from a week ago.

Risk Analysis

You should learn about the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Sonic Automotive.

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.

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PINEVILLE, Mo.  Its officially back-to-school season here in the Four States

The start of the new school year is just weeks away for most students here in the Four States, with officials with the McDonald County Health Department urging parents and local college students to start thinking about those back-to-school immunizations.

School has recommendations on what they require, and we also have what is medically recommended. We always try and work on, making sure the kids get vaccinated for medically recommended stuff, that the doctors and stuff want, said Michael Hall, McDonald County Health Department Director.

The departments director, Michael Hall, says its common for folks to wait until the last minute to receive the vaccines required to attend a school or university, but that usually leads to longer wait times, late in August.

Where we dont have a bunch of people trying to show up to the health department at the same time to get their shots, so we recommend people try to come in when they can. We dont do appointments, just walk-ins only, said Hall.

To avoid long lines and the chance of being ineligible to attend classes, officials are advising locals to take advantage of the slower, earlier weeks of the month, and are even putting on several clinics at a couple of elementary schools in McDonald County.

Friday the 9th, from 9-11 am, we are going to be at White Rock Elementary School and then on that day, the 9th, from 1-3 pm, we are going to be at Southwest City Elementary School. So, the health department will have their van over, well have all the recommended vaccinations at the schools, said Hall.

Those with questions regarding back-to-school immunizations can contact the McDonald County Health Department at (417) 223-4351.

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State Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet addresses supporters of her campaign for Congress during a primary election night watch party in Saginaw, Mich., on Aug. 6, 2024. U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint, who McDonald Rivet is running to succeed, stands behind her. (Photo by Andrew Roth/Michigan Advance)

Updated, 1:25 a.m. 8/7/24

State Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City) has won the Democratic nomination for Michigans 8th Congressional District, considered a key race for control of the U.S. House.

The Associated Press called the race for McDonald Rivet around 12:50 a.m. Wednesday, as she led Michigan State Board of Education President Pamela Pugh and former Flint Mayor Matt Collier with about 55% of the vote with 46% of votes counted.

Collier earned 29% and Pugh took 16%.

With sitting U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint) announcing in November that he would not seek reelection, both parties are pushing hard to ensure their control of the district.

In the Republican primary, the race also featured three candidates: former President Donald Trump immigration official Paul Junge, former Dow Executive Mary Draves and truck driver Anthony Hudson. The Associated Press had called the race for Junge, as the Advance previously reported.

Michigans 8th Congressional District is rated as a toss-up by the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, with the National Republican Congressional Committee listing the district as one of its targets for 2024 in a bid to grow Republicans majority in the U.S. House.

Prior to winning a term in the Michigan Senate in 2022, McDonald Rivet served as the executive director of the Michigan Head Start Association, vice president of Michigan Future Inc., president and CEO of Greater Midland, Inc. as well as chief of staff for the Michigan Department of Education among other positions. She has also received endorsement from Kildee, alongside U.S. Reps. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) and Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor) and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

In a previous interview with the Advance, McDonald Rivet pointed to lowering costs for families and building strong pathways for children as her day one priorities if elected. She also said the U.S. needs to modernize its immigration system, stop illegal border crossings and create a legal pathway for those seeking a life in the U.S.

Pugh has served on the Michigan State Board of Education since 2015. She also has a background in public health, having served as the chief public health advisor for the Flint water crisis, on former Gov. Jennifer Granholms Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Task Force, o Granholms State Environmental Justice Workgroup, health chair of the Michigan Conference of the NAACP and with the Saginaw County Health Department to reduce elevated blood lead levels in children.

Collier is the former mayor of Flint serving from 1987 to 1991. A former airborne-ranger in the U.S. Army, Collier also served in President Barack Obamas administration as the senior advisor to the secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Flanked by Kildee, McDonald Rivet addressed her supporters around 11 p.m. Tuesday, after the Republican primary was called.

I know its late, and I really appreciate your patience, so lets just cut to the chase: As the votes continue to be counted, we do not yet have a call. But I need to tell you, as theyre coming in, we are really encouraged and optimistic about the results thus far.

McDonald Rivet stressed that her campaign was feeling optimistic, but noted they would need to get to work once the primary is officially over.

I need to say to you all; we deserve so much better than a rich guy turned MAGA extremist trying to buy your vote. It looks like were running against Paul Junge, who is trying for the third time to buy a U.S. House seat, McDonald Rivet said, referencing Junges two previous unsuccessful congressional campaigns.

Junge previously ran against Kildee in 2022 and U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly) in 2020.

I am ready to take the campaign to Paul, because I am a lifelong Michigander. I raised my kids here, some of them are in the room, and I have a record of delivering for the hard working families of this district, McDonald Rivet said.

After the race was called, Kildee made a post to X echoing McDonald Rivets criticisms of Junge.

Kristen is a lifelong Michigander who raised her six kids in our community. Her GOP opponent is a trust fund millionaire from California trying to buy a seat in Congress, he said.

Collier also released a statement in support of McDonald Rivet.

I want to take this moment to thank Dr. Pam Pugh for a strong campaign, and congratulate both my opponents on a race well run. I would like to formally endorse Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet for congress in Michigans 8th district, and I look forward to working with her and Democrats up and down the ballot to defeat Paul Junge and keep MI-08 blue in November.



Advance contributor Andrew Roth contributed to this story.

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CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI)  On Wednesday, Gov. Dan McKee signed a bill into law to protect both consumers and companies in the ever-evolving solar energy industry.

Through the new law, legislators aimed to address two main points: door-to-door solicitation and the right to cancel contracts.

The recent explosion of door-to-door solar sales has left customers overwhelmed and confused. This law does many things to protect consumers interested in installing solar at their homes, one of the bills sponsors, House Deputy Majority Whip Mia Ackerman, said Wednesday.

MORE: New law aims to crack down on RIs solar industry

Close up photo of solar panels with grass in the background

It also allows the Department of Business Regulation (DBR) to investigate complaints, impose penalties and nullify registrations when needed.

DBR Director Elizabeth Dwyer said solar retailers will be required to register their businesses and a roster of all representatives soliciting for them in Rhode Island.

She said those companies must also provide important and timely disclosure to consumers, conduct criminal record checks for all sales representatives and follow municipal regulations for door-to-door sales.

According to the state, each violation could result in a fine of up to $5,000.

NEXT: RIs largest landfill solar farm now online

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For the second time in a year, cybercriminals have attacked McLaren Health Care's technology platforms, the Grand Blanc-based health system said Wednesday afternoon, confirming the cause of a disruption earlier this week to all 13 of its Michigan hospitals, surgery, infusion and imaging centers along with its network of 113,000 medical providers throughout Michigan, Indiana and Ohio.

"McLaren Health Care can now confirm the disruption ... was the result of a criminal cyber attack," said a statement sent to the Free Press. "Our information technology team continues to work with external cyber security experts to analyze the nature of the attack and mitigate the impacts of the threat actors. At this time, we have not determined if any patient or employee data was compromised."

The front of McLaren Macomb hospital on Harrington Road in Mt. Clemens on July 21, 2021.

The disruption began early Monday, and crippled some parts of the system's operations.

For a short time, ambulances were diverted from McLaren Port Huron Hospital, and some appointments had to be canceled because physicians couldn't access radiology reports, lab test results or orders for additional testing and procedures.

"Immediately after becoming aware of the attack, our hospitals and outpatient clinics instituted downtime procedures to ensure care delivery within our facilities," the McLaren statement said. "Several information technology systems continue to operate in downtime procedures while we work to fully restore functionality to our system. We have policies and procedures in place and train for information technology disruptions. We are grateful for the response from our frontline caregivers and staff who have come together to provide care under these circumstances."

No estimate was given for how long the disruption will last, and spokesperson David Jones did not answer questions from the Free Press about whether this incident involved ransomware and whether it was related to last year's cyberattack from the ransomware gang known as BlackCat/AlphV.

"Currently, our facilities are largely operational and able to care for our communities and will continue to do so until operations are fully restored," the updated statement said. "Our emergency departments continue to be operational, most surgeries and procedures continue to be performed, and our physician offices continue to see as many patients as possible. During this time of limited access to our systems, and out of an abundance of caution, some non-emergent appointments, tests, and treatments are being rescheduled.

"In addition, we are also actively working with our vendor partners and insurance providers to ensure our supply chain is not impacted and insurance authorizations are processed for care and treatments."

About 730,000 people are enrolled in McLaren's insurance plans in Michigan and Indiana. It also provides hospice care and pharmacy services, and operates clinical laboratories.

More: McLaren Health Care's Michigan hospitals hit by 'disruption' to computer, phone systems

The health system advised patients to keep their previously scheduled appointments unless the medical provider asks them to reschedule. It also asked patients to bring paper copies of the following to all appointments:

A list of current medications or prescription bottles

Printed physician orders for imaging studies or treatments

Printed results of recent lab tests, if available, via the McLaren or Karmanos patient portal

A list of allergies

In late August 2023, McLaren shut down its computer network in response to a ransomware attack that potentially leaked patient data onto the dark web.

A ransomware gang known as BlackCat/AlphV claimed responsibility then, posting online that it stole 6 terabytes of McLaren's data, including the personal information of 2.5 million patients.

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.

More: Cyberattack hits Ascension hospitals' computer networks: 'It's affecting everything'

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.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: McLaren Health Care's tech woes caused by 2nd cyberattack in a year
Apparently Kamala Harris wasnt looking for a 49-year-old balding gay Jew from Boulder, Colorado, to be her running mate.

That was Colorado Gov. Jared Polis self-deprecating description of himself  a comment that went viral  when asked about his prospects in the veepstakes.

It was classic Polis, the first openly gay person elected governor of a state, and the latest example of how the Colorado governor has painstakingly sought to build a unique national political brand.

Since being elected governor in 2018, Polis has done approximately 1,500 interviews with local and national press, using frank language and humor to guide Coloradans on Covid-19 pandemic precautions and pump up fellow Democrats on Fox News. Hes also curated an active social media profile, frequently posting on TikTok and Youtube, most infamously by dancing to Feliz Navidad.

But Polis also wants people to know that hes serious about policy. He took on the role of chair of the National Governors Association last month, a position that will further elevate his profile outside of Colorado as Polis guides policy goals for the bipartisan group. He wants his signature issue to be helping states build education systems that better address workforce shortages.

"Governors across the board want to make sure that were able to successfully meet the workforce needs of today and tomorrow and that individual learners have the opportunity to support themselves and earn a good living, Polis said in an interview with POLITICO.

Before Polis entered national politics, he capitalized on the early internet boom of the 1990s by starting several businesses that later sold for hundreds of millions of dollars. Polis joined Congress in 2008 as one of its wealthiest members, serving five terms.

Polis sat down with POLITICO to discuss affordable housing, assault weapons bans, why governors make the best presidential running mates  and what advice he has for Kamala Harris in rural America.

This transcript has been edited for length and clarity.

As a Democrat running a state with a large rural population, what advice do you have for Democratic nominee Kamala Harris about appealing to rural Americans?

Our state is a very diverse state. In the congressional district that elected Lauren Boebert two years ago, I carried it. Its a rural district. And that means that, yes, there were Trump-Polis voters in this district.



For me, showing up is the big one. Ive always spent a higher percentage of our time in rural areas. When I spoke to the cattlemen in Grand Junction, they said I was the first governor to address them in a decade or so. It makes a difference. Showing up, being there and being present. Youre not going to agree on everything but people in rural areas particularly value elected officials showing up and caring about being present.

In terms of an issue frame, its really about including everyone in the story of American success. We want to make sure that no one is left behind because of where they live or who they are or what kind of work they do. Everybody has a strong vibrant part in Americas future.

Within the context of your education initiative as NGA chair, how do you navigate the deep schism among governors on school vouchers and take into account this party split over how to achieve the best education outcomes?

At the National Governors Association, we always want to focus on something that works in Republican states and Democratic states. What I find from all my colleagues, the governors across the board, is they want to make sure were getting what we need out of the major investment we make in education. Are kids ready? Are individual learners ready to succeed? And in the aggregate, are we meeting the needs of the private sector and the workforce?

When we say, lets get ready, we mean at the individual level, we mean at the statewide and national level, and how can we better look at outcomes to ensure that were getting it right? Education is the single biggest expenditure for every state  20-, 30-plus [percent] of our state budget goes to K-12 education. So, governors are asking the question, what are we getting? Regardless of whether they have district-run schools or they have vouchers and charter schools, governors across the board want to make sure that were able to successfully meet the workforce needs of today and tomorrow and that individual learners have the opportunity to support themselves and earn a good living.

Colorado just enacted a massive housing package intended to address the affordable housing crisis. What lessons did you learn during that process that may be useful to other governors also confronting the housing issue, and how do you intend to measure success?

It was our second year that we had the great success and burst the dam on policies that remove barriers to home construction. The first year we attempted to do it in an omnibus bill and in the second where we succeeded we broke up our pro-housing agenda into seven different bills, all of which passed.



We allowed for more density to be built near transit and multi-family homes, accessory dwelling units by right, a number of different bills that remove cost, speed up the approval process and allowed more homes and apartments to be built. And so, like any product, the cost of housing is the function of supply and demand. The demand is high in Colorado because people want to live here. We dont want to reduce the demand, people love Colorado. What we need to do is remove the artificial barriers to supply and those were mostly local zoning laws that prevented housing from being built that needed to be built, or made it very slow and costly to build that housing. We simply wanted to remove bureaucracy and paperwork, reduce legal costs and speed up housing construction in our state to help meet the demand and make sure that families can afford to live in the great state of Colorado.

Theres some frustration among progressives in Colorado that more has not been addressed through Democrats control of the legislature, whether it's through criminal justice reform or renter protections or banning assault weapons. To what extent do you share those frustrations and do you believe that Colorado is fulfilling its mandate from voters who reelected you in a blowout and strengthened Democrats margins in the legislature?

We ran on helping to fix the housing crisis in Colorado and we made major steps last session in allowing more houses to be built.  Homes that might have taken 3-4 years to be built can be built in a year. Homes that could be single-family might now be able to house six families on that lot. So thats what we set up in Colorado and were already seeing benefits over the next few years. We expect more lower-cost starter home inventory to come online in our state.

Of course, what people care about is broader than that. We issued full funding for our schools for the first time in 14 years. We increased the budget for classrooms by about $17,000. Districts are increasing teacher salaries, theyre reducing class size, theyre adding classroom supplies and special support for learners that need it.

So we are now in our second year of universal preschool, which is another key item I ran on. Every kid should be able to go to preschool. Before Colorado families had to pay for it. Now its free for every four year old. We moved from 28th in preschool enrollment in the country to 8th in preschool enrollment in the country, in one year, and saved families about $6,000 a year.

Whats one item on the progressive agenda thats been left on the table and you want to see addressed in the next session?

Costs are a frustrating factor and among the many costs would be health care costs. Weve taken some great action to reduce health care costs including a Colorado option and reinsurance that have reduced health care rates in the [Obamacare] exchange by more than 20 percent. Absolutely we need to do more to take on pharma, save people money on insurance and out-of-pocket, and Im looking forward to working with the legislature to make more progress on saving people money with health care.



I want to ask specifically about an assault weapons ban. If Democrats do work out their differences next session and pass a ban, would you sign it?

Look, Colorado is one of the leading states in gun safety. Just in the last two years Ive signed bills. For instance, in Colorado before you had to be 21 to buy a pistol but you could buy a rifle at 18. We changed the age to 21 for both rifles and it was already 21 for pistols. We also added a three-day waiting period to make sure the background checks could occur and make it harder to buy a gun immediately to commit a crime. We also have some safe storage requirements. If you have kids in the house, it's the legal responsibility of the adults to make sure the guns are secured. We wanted to make an impact on reducing the tragedies that occur from guns that are inadequately stored when kids are around. We have a very strong gun safety agenda. Its part of our overall public safety agenda.

So would you go one step further and sign an assault weapons ban?

Well we always want to get the best possible public safety improvements that we can. So were happy to look at the data on any particular proposal and we focused on proposals that have demonstrably reduced crime, improved public safety and protect peoples freedoms and the right to bear arms.

Colorados pioneering weed market has endured a major downturn thats led to a big drop in cannabis tax revenues. What do you think should be done to try and revive this struggling industry?

This was very predictable. Ten years ago, from Colorados perspective, its great to be the only state where its legal. As an American, Id like it to be legalized nationally. So were now in the place where [38] states have some legal form of cannabis, so of course, less people from neighboring states and across the country would come to Colorado and purchase cannabis because it's legal in other states. Its good policy for the country, but of course Colorado has had decreases now were not as special in that area. It's still a great way for the country to get rid of the black market in cannabis, generate legal tax revenues, and legitimate jobs. We still have a very strong industry in Colorado, thousands of jobs, we just surpassed a billion dollars in tax revenue.

Why do you think so many of the names of VPs harris short list are governors  and who [were] you pulling for to join the ticket?

As chair of the National Governors Association I appreciate that, Im partial to governors. Theres a logical reasoning there. Governors are executive leaders who run the executive and administrative branches of their state. So theyre ready from day one on the executive side to be in a senior position to govern alongside the president. They face many of the challenges at the state level that we face at the federal level, and have proven a track record of leadership in getting things done.

Theyre all my favorites. All the ones that show up and are active members of the governors association are my favorites. But I really think there's a lot to learn by innovations at the state level, on both sides of the aisle. We all try to learn from one another and can also assist the federal government in learning what works at the state level in the laboratories of democracy.
Emery Gainey became the current Alachua County sheriff after he was appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2023. He is the sole Republican in the race and will face the winner of the Democratic primary and NOP Pamela Marshall-Koons in the November election.

Emery Gainey addresses the media on May 20, 2016.

Q&A

Q: What is your approach to curbing gun violence in Alachua County? What have you accomplished in this area so far?

A: Combating gun violence is a multifaceted approach consisting of prevention initiatives, reducing access to firearms and enforcement. Our team members are active in several initiatives to address the rampant gun violence in our community.

We are participating in the Gun Violence Prevention Initiative to assist our community stakeholders in developing effective prevention strategies to reduce the proliferation of gun crimes in Alachua County.

Our Crime Prevention and School Resource Deputies are constantly engaging with our youth and their parents to teach lawful alternatives to gun violence. We are also making a concerted effort to encourage lawful gun owners to make an extra effort to secure their firearms in such a manner to make them difficult to steal and to use locking devices to make the guns not easily accessible for use.

In February of this year, we initiated a joint task force of federal, state, and local law enforcement officials to investigate and arrest those who are committing crimes while using guns. This initiative has been highly successful in identifying over 100 perpetrators, resulting in 68 cases, and 64 arrests; 22 of which were charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Since March 2024, seven individuals have been sentenced to the Florida Department of Corrections resulting in a grand total of over 68 years in state prison. Thirty-three individuals are currently in the ACSO Jail awaiting trial; 15 are teenagers, 13 are between 20-24, and 5 are 25-31. The work of the task force is ongoing.

Q: How will you deal with problems at the jail? Are there plans to build a new jail as the population goes up? What is your approach to solving the staffing issues at the jail?

A: The ACSO Jail staff have done an outstanding job managing the population of inmates in their care, custody, and control. The majority of the dedicated employees continue to give up days off and work long hours to cover the mandatory posts required by the Florida Model Jail Standards and ACSO policy and procedures.

The most serious current issue at the jail is the shortage of staff. Upon assuming office in October 2023, the Department of the Jail (DOJ) was short 119 positions. Over the past 10 months, we have hired more than 100 employees at the DOJ, however, due to normal attrition, (retirements, resignations, relocations), etc., we have a net gain of 35 positions.

To combat this issue, we put in place a full-time recruitment team, revised our hiring processes, deployed an updated online application system, and made other changes to more efficiently process applicants for agencywide openings.

Sections of our jail are in serious decline due to aging; therefore, it is incumbent that our county commissioners begin the process of planning for a new facility now since such a large-scale project will likely take up to 10 years to complete. My staff and I are having ongoing discussions with our commission and staff on this matter. In the interim, it is critical that the county commission and staff continue to address the maintenance issues that surface at the jail on a routine basis to ensure both inmates and staff have a safe environment to work or be housed in.

Q: What is your plan for dealing with homelessness in the area? What do you believe the sheriff's offices role should be when it comes to homelessness?

A: We have been involved in several key discussions with city and county staff regarding homelessness and have committed to helping in our somewhat limited role in this area. Staff certainly recognizes the difficulty many of our citizens face and our deputies often encounter many homeless citizens almost daily.

It is my commitment to work with the county as they seek housing alternatives by purchasing properties to help address homelessness. Our deputies are committed to keeping every citizen as safe as possible to include those with housing challenges to keep our community members safe.

We will continue to work with our private community partners who provide an array of assistance to the homeless population.

Q: What do you wish you had done differently during your first year as Alachua County sheriff?

A: I am immensely proud of the work the dedicated men and women at the sheriffs office has accomplished since my return to the agency. This is especially true given that the agency was short 248 positions when I assumed office. However, the personal dedication to serving the Alachua County community has been on full display by those who remain at the agency and by those we have hired.

Recruiting and restaffing the agency remains one of the highest priorities along with providing the community with professional law enforcement services. Once we have narrowed the number of openings to a manageable level, we will reassess our overall plans to best meet the communitys needs.

Staff and I have rebuilt our relationships with our local, state, and federal agencies, many of our non-governmental community partners and the surrounding county sheriffs offices, all of which are critical in planning for and providing essential services to this community.

Therefore, is my belief that our priorities during the past 10 months have been correctly focused.

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: A Q&A with Alachua County Sheriff Emery Gainey
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Credit: Axiom Space

Houston-based Axiom Space has announced the four crew members for its fourth commercial human spaceflight mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

Three international astronauts will join former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson , who will be the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) commander: pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, Polish mission specialist Sawosz Uznanski of the European Space Agency (ESA), and mission specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary. This will be the first time that a Polish astronaut will head to space in more than 40 years.

Axiom Space lauded the mission as part of its ongoing mission to expand global access to space. "Ax-4 represents Axiom Space's continued efforts to build opportunity for countries to research, innovate, test, and engage with people around the world while in low-Earth orbit," Michael Suffredini, former CEO and member of the Axiom Space board of directors, said in a statement . "This mission broadens horizons for nations with ambitious goals of advancing scientific, technological, and economic pursuits.

The aims of this mission include conducting more scientific research, demonstrating technology on the orbital outpost and the continued commercialization of space. Through collaboration between the international partners, Axiom Space hopes to highlight each nation as leaders throughout the space industry by combining resources, knowledge, and opportunities.

"Our collaboration with ESA for a second time and the inclusion of Hungary and India underscores Axiom Space's ability to cultivate global partners, expand the scope of exploration, and open up new avenues to grow a global space economy," Suffredini said in the statement.

Peggy Whitson, commander of Ax-4, will be flying on her fifth overall mission to space and her second on behalf of Axiom Space. In the same statement, the record-holding astronaut and former Chief Astronaut for NASA lauded the international opportunities that the company continues to bring to the ISS.

"I look forward to commanding my second commercial human spaceflight mission with Axiom Space," Whitson said. "With a culturally diverse crew, we are not only advancing scientific knowledge but also fostering international collaboration. Our previous missions set the stage. Axiom Mission 1 was the first all-private mission to the space station, Axiom Mission 2 launched the first Saudi female to space, and Axiom Mission 3 included both the first Turkish astronaut and first ESA astronaut to fly on a commercial space mission.

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 SpaceX Dragon carrying Ax-3 astronauts splashes down in Atlantic to end longest private spaceflight for Axiom Space

 Axiom Space: Building the off-Earth economy

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"Now, with Ax-4, we ascend even higher, bringing even more nations to low-Earth orbit and expanding humanity's reach among the stars."

The launch date to the ISS is scheduled for no earlier than October 2024 from Kennedy Space Center Florida and will launch atop a SpaceX Falcon9. The crew will spend up to 14 days on the ISS conducting research.
Helena Bennett, director of the St Helena National Trust, explains how her team is working to preserve the island's natural wonders  including the cloud forest, which is home to more than 70% of St Helena's endemic species. Photo by Sophia Joshua

Everything about the small island of St Helena seems unlikely. It stands isolated in the middle of the South Atlantic, halfway between Africa and South America, but its been a British colony for over 400 years. The island is mostly made of volcanic rock, yet its topography is astonishingly varied, ranging from meadows and cloud forest to subtropical valleys filled with wildflowers, cacti and succulents. And, although it covers less than 47sq miles  roughly the size of Manchester  this speck of land is home to 502 endemic species (over a third of the total found across all British territories). It's also home to Helena Bennett, the director of the St Helena National Trust, who works to preserve these natural wonders and educate visitors on the island's storied past. "It's unusual, I'll admit that much," she says of her role, which can encompass everything from conserving heritage buildings to protecting endangered species like the wirebird.

Jamestown, St Helena's historic capital, is sandwiched between the steep cliffs of James Valley. Photo by Craig Williams

Like most St Helenians  or Saints, as they prefer to be called  Helenas family history illustrates the islands tangled past. St Helena is a melting pot. Most islanders have at least 16 different DNA markers, Helena explains. On my maternal side, we traced our family tree back to 1645 and the Bennetts in Lancaster, who came as part of the whaling industry. On my paternal side, 24% of my DNA is from Southern India, so they were probably workers for the East India Company. We discovered 14% comes from Congo or Cameroon, so thats the slave trade. A single person is a living piece of the islands history. To me, thats fascinating.

Facing the past

In recent years, the island has reckoned with some of the more uncomfortable aspects of its past. Between 1840 and 1872, the British Navy intercepted slave ships en route from Africa to the Americas in an attempt to eliminate the illegal transatlantic trade. More than 25,000 Africans liberated from these ships were brought to St Helena. Most were later taken back to Africa or on to other countries, but around a third of those settled on the island and were eventually buried in Rupert's Valley, a rocky ravine a few miles from the capital, Jamestown. In 2008, when the islands airport was being built, the remains of 325 people were exhumed and reburied in a new cemetery. Work is currently underway to build an education centre and memorial to help tell their story.

The National Trust offers guided tours of Ruperts Valley to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of St Helena's role in the abolition of the international slave trade. The St Helena Museum in Jamestown also provides historical background from ships logs, sailors letters and shipwreck artefacts. Helena also suggests visitors hike to High Knoll Fort, the hilltop citadel that looms high over the capital. The views are amazing, and I like to imagine what it wouldve been like in the 1700s or 1800s, when it would have been this vibrant, lively working fort.

Fresh fish is fried at the seaside Yacht Club in St Helena's capital, Jamestown. Photograph by Mathias Falcone

Festivals and parades, including Carnival, pictured here, are a central part of St Helenian culture. Photograph by Ed Thorpe

Preserving natural wonders

For most travellers, its St Helenas natural splendour that draws them here. The islands coastline has been a designated marine reserve since 2016, and, in 2023, it was chosen as a Hope Spot  a beacon of marine biodiversity. Its been heartwarming to receive that official recognition, says Helena. Shes been particularly encouraged by the response of the islands fisherfolk, who, after initial reservations, have come to embrace the project, from implementing fishing quotas to fighting plastic pollution. Their efforts have paid off: St Helena is rated as one of the best places in the South Atlantic to see marine megafauna such as dolphins, green turtles and whale sharks.

Visitors to St Helena may be lucky enough to spot a whale shark swimming off the island's coast. Photograph by Beth Taylor

The islands cloud forest, which contains more than 70% of St Helenas endemic species, including the blushing snail and spiky yellow woodlouse, currently faces threats from invasive species and pathogens, including a water mould called phytophthora. To learn about replanting initiatives that are helping to preserve the islands endangered plants, Helena recommends taking a guided walk to Blue Point or Southwest Point. From there, you can see the cloud forest in all its glory, she says.

Helena has big plans for the National Trust, including a renovation project for the islands historic buildings; a grasslands restoration programme; a cultural centre with space for the islands library and digitised archives; and a new research initiative focussing on the islands shark species.

Theres lots of exciting work, she says. Were doing things here the rest of the world is aspiring to. As always, were leading the way, even if were a small island very far away.

This paid content article was created for St Helena Tourism as a joint initiative with Rainbow Tours. It does not necessarily reflect the views of National Geographic, National Geographic Traveller (UK) or their editorial staffs.



To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Megyn Kelly seemed to channel her Gretchen Wieners on Wednesday  except instead of trying to make fetch happen, she tried to turn Tampon Tim into a trending term.

The appellation for Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) is meant to be an insulting reference to his decision last year to sign a bill requiring schools in the state to provide free menstrual products in all public school bathrooms.

The bill allows for the feminine hygiene products to be placed in boys bathrooms as well as girls  something that conservatives are hoping they can weaponize against Walz, whom Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen as her running mate in the 2024 election.

On X, formerly Twitter, Kelly approvingly responded to a post that described Tampon Tim as Kamalas dead weight.

Tampon Tim is the name, Kelly wrote to her 3-million-something followers. Thats it.

The original tweet also declared that Biden was Obamas dead weight and Kamala is Bidens dead weight, referring to Democratic presidential tickets that voters elected to the White House in 2008, 2012 and 2020.

Tampon Tim is the name. Thats it. https://t.co/TpCFhDTE5X  Megyn Kelly (@megynkelly) August 7, 2024

If Kelly expected people to fall in line behind her and promote Tampon Tim as a mocking nickname for Walz, she was sorely mistaken.

Instead, many folks, including Dr. Jennifer Gunter, an OB-GYN in Canada, pointed out that the bill Walz signed is actually, well, good for people.

Imagine being upset that someone didnt want kids leaking menstrual blood onto their clothes, Gunter wrote in response to Kellys tweet. You are pro period poverty, which seems to me to be very anti Christian. Would Jesus have said, Let them leak blood onto their clothes because they deserve it?

Imagine being upset that someone didnt want kids leaking menstrual blood onto their clothes. You are pro period poverty, which seems to me to be very anti Christian. Would Jesus have said, Let them leak blood onto their clothes because they deserve it? https://t.co/jY1YqC4qNb  Jennifer Gunter (@DrJenGunter) August 7, 2024

Others also piled on Kelly, and declared that Tampon Tim honestly sounds like more of a term of admiration than derision.

So you think children should be forced to menstruate without these products in school? What is wrong with you weirdos? Get a life  Ryan Marino, MD (@RyanMarino) August 7, 2024

Tampon Tim sounds like Santa Claus but for periods. Like on the night before you start bleeding he visits your house and leaves baskets of menstrual products under your sink. We should sing carols about him  Erin "Skeleton Factory" Ryan (@morninggloria) August 7, 2024

Does MAGA not understand #TamponTim isn't an insult? When did a Man making sure young girls aren't bleeding through their clothes at school become a problem? You meanhe doesn't want them embarrassed & able to focus in class?



You clowns put them on your ears a few weeks ago. pic.twitter.com/3Tgx6ammgc  Mrs G (@MrsEricaGarza) August 6, 2024

Ah yes, because wanting to provide school-aged girls with readily accessible menstrual products is so wrong 



Remember when you were relevant? No, me either  Ken Downey Jr. (@Ken_DowneyJr) August 7, 2024

Aint no way Tampon Tim is an insult, especially from the party who wore Kotex Overnights on their ears two weeks ago!



Providing free and accessible menstrual products should be the law of the land so, if this makes Walz a danger, then its time to get dangerous.  Candice Marie Benbow (@CandiceBenbow) August 6, 2024

Do you really think providing school age girls with menstrual supplies is a negative? So if Im following you on this youre a yes to schools posting the Ten Commandments but a no on tampons. Whats your position on toilet paper? Okay for private schools, but kids in public  Neall (@nlltrt) August 7, 2024

Megan, apparently not remembering the embarrassing moments young girls have as they begin to have their periods and their world is not yet ready for them.  Kevin Ward (@DogGoneSilly) August 7, 2024

Megyn never disappoints. Shes a piece of work.



A woman. A mother.



And she mocks #TimWalz for providing free sanitary products to poor girls who cannot afford them. Just despicable. The right is unwell. Unhinged. Mean. https://t.co/VrKIQSkYFp  Sophia childless chicks Nelson (@IAmSophiaNelson) August 7, 2024

Trump grossly accused Megyn Kelly of having blood coming out of her wherever.

Tim Walz wants to make sure that doesn't happen to anyone. #HarrisWalz2024  Shirley Kelly (@ShirleyKelly16) August 7, 2024

MAGA is referring to Walz as "Tampon Tim"



I mean, he's definitely going to stop any chance of a red wave.  C.W. (The Jedi Master DISSENTS) (@CWJediMaster) August 6, 2024

I had to check why Tampon Tim was trending, good lord MAGA are some seriously misogynistic weirdos.

Imagine thinking supplying feminine hygiene products to girls who need them is a bad thing.  Andrea R MD (@AndreaR9Md) August 6, 2024

Calling Walz Tampon Tim for putting free tampons in bathrooms for women is not the sick burn they think it is.



Hes a legend. Hes an icon. And he IS the moment. pic.twitter.com/Sc7oda2R8s  A Jen, Duh (@hipchkk) August 6, 2024

Period poverty is a real thing - students miss school because of lack of access to menstrual products. As a former teacher, Walz understands how his impacts educational outcomes, just like he knows how hunger impacts learning. This makes me an even bigger fan of Tampon Tim.  Bee Nguyen  (@BeeForGeorgia) August 6, 2024

Related...
LEBANON, Mo.  A memorial service has been scheduled for Cassidy Rainwater.

According to an obituary from Holman-Howe Funeral Homes, the service for Rainwater is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Aug. 16 at Holman-Howe in Lebanon.

Rainwater is survived by her husband, six children, siblings and other family and friends, the obituary said.

Cassidy Rainwater: Everything we know about her death, disappearance, the suspects, and the house fire

In July 2021, Rainwater was reported missing by her family. Her skeletal remains were found in September, and two suspects  James Phelps and Timothy Norton  were arrested shortly after. In October, the house where Phelps and Norton were staying burned to the ground.

Phelps and Norton were both charged with first-degree murder and abandonment of a corpse, and are currently serving life sentences. Phelps entered an Alford plea in April 2023, and Norton pleaded guilty in June 2023.

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Image source: Getty Images

Whether you typically pay cash for airline tickets or pull out your favorite credit card, buying a seat on a Southwest Airlines flight is about to feel a little different.

According to the airline, Southwest is moving away from its traditional open seating concept to the same assigned seating on other airlines. Here's what you can expect based on what we know so far.

How you board will change (a little)

Depending on how much you enjoy checking into your Southwest flight precisely at the 24-hour mark, you may be happy to hear that assigned seating will eliminate the need to be one of the first to check in.

No more feeling as though you're crouched at the starting block, waiting for an important race to begin. The race, of course, is all about checking in early enough to ensure a decent boarding number. After all, the earlier you board the plane, the more seating and overhead bin options are available.

While there's no final plan for how boarding will take place, Southwest executives say the airline hopes to retain the "calm and order" the current boarding process is known for.

Here's the good news if you're flying with a group: You're far more likely to snag seats together if those seats are assigned before boarding.

You can pay for extra legroom

Most airlines offer premium seating, a luxury that comes at an extra cost. To date, Southwest has missed out on that opportunity, which may be one reason the airline has experienced a drop in revenue.

The airline is rolling out a new layout to offer premium seating. Rather than the one-size-fits-all egalitarian seating we've all grown accustomed to, about one-third of the seats are expected to offer extra legroom.

You still won't see a first-class (or business class) cabin with large, lay-flat reclining seats, and you shouldn't expect to be served a premium meal, but you can pay for a little more room to stretch your legs.

If getting extra legroom is important to you, you may want to compare credit cards to find one that offers free flight upgrades.

You might have access to extra perks

It appears that Southwest is figuring this all out in real time, so the best we can do is try to read between the lines. Currently, the largest U.S. airlines offer some type of complimentary access to extra legroom as a reward for holding elite status.

Since Southwest currently gives its A-List and A-List Preferred flyers the benefit of early boarding, it's natural to assume it'll sweeten the pot by adding a premium seating benefit.

Red-eye flights

Unless you're a regular Southwest flyer, you may not be aware that the airline has never before offered red-eye flights. That's about to change in 2025, too. Now, going to your kid's dance recital at 7 p.m. before heading to the airport for an 11 p.m. flight will be within the realm of possibility.

Story continues

What about bags?

One of the sweetest perks with flying Southwest is the airline's policy of allowing travelers to check two bags for free. As of now, there are no plans to change the practice.

Change is inevitable in business, as in life. We'll have to wait and see whether Southwest Airlines flyers ultimately embrace the changes being made to their routine.

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We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Dana George has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Southwest Airlines. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Southwest Airlines Is Ending Open Seating. Here's What This Historic Change Means for You was originally published by The Motley Fool
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  New Mexicos Black Leadership Council celebrated national night out launching a support network for local businesses. The IDEAS Network, short for the International District Engagement Support Network, will focus on providing resources to local businesses.

Report: Nearly 60% of New Mexico college students facing food insecurity

If not now, when? and if not you, who? So were taking the charge to say we can change the narrative there are a whole lot of great businesses, said Cathryn McGill, Founder and Director, New Mexico Black Leadership Council.

The Ideas Network will also host community events to promote local businesses.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Mexico has invited Russian leader Vladimir Putin to attend the Oct. 1 inauguration of President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, Russia's Izvestia newspaper reported on Aug. 7, citing the Mexican embassy in Russia.

A representative from the Mexican embassy said that "an invitation to attend President Sheinbaum's inauguration has been sent to President Putin," according to the Russian state news outlet Izvestia. The representative also noted, the Russian President "will decide whether he will participate in the ceremony personally or delegate a high-ranking official to represent him."

Mexico's foreign ministry later told Reuters that the government had sent diplomatic notes to all countries with which it maintains relations, as well as to international organizations of which it is a member, inviting them to Sheinbaum's inauguration.

In 2023, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Putin, accusing him of the war crime of illegally deporting hundreds of children from Ukraine following Russia's full-scale invasion that started in February 2022.

While Russia is not a member of the ICC, Mexico is. Despite this, the two countries have been strengthening their relationship. Putin congratulated Sheinbaum on her victory in June, referring to Mexico as Russia's "historically friendly partner" in Latin America.

Read also: Putin asks Iran for measured response against Israel, sources tell Reuters

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
City of Miami voters will decide this month if they want to do away with the auditor generals office and install a new, more powerful watchdog office in its place.

Two related items one to eliminate the existing office and one to create a new Office of the Independent Inspector General  will appear on the citys Aug. 20 ballot. Both items were sponsored by District 4 Commissioner Manolo Reyes and approved for the ballot unanimously by the Miami City Commission.

If we want to change that image that we have in the city of Miami and bring more transparency to the city, Im asking the voters in the city of Miami to vote yes, Reyes said.

Creating the office, he said, would be a step toward rooting out malfeasance in City Hall and help dispel Miamis reputation as a banana republic rife with corruption.

The new office, which would replace the Office of the Independent Auditor General, would be tasked with investigating legal and ethical violations by city employees, agencies with ties to the city and candidates running for office in Miami. The office could initiate these investigations itself and would be required to report any wrongdoing it finds to the appropriate authorities, Reyes said.

The goals of the new office would be similar to the goals of the existing Office of the Auditor General. But the Office of the Independent Inspector General would have a wider range of responsibilities and powers than the current auditor general position, Reyes said. These powers include the ability to subpoena witnesses, which the existing auditor general cannot do.

The existing office is unable to open an investigation without being directed to do so by the city manager or an elected official. This office can only carry out internal audit functions, and it reports the results of its investigations to the mayor, city manager and city attorney.

The proposed office would be able to review procurement and bidding processes, as well as past, present and future city programs, accounts, records, contracts and transactions.

One limitation of the office, though, is that it cannot make firing decisions based on its findings, Reyes said.

It would not be an elected position. Rather the inspector general would be appointed by a panel that would not include city commissioners. The panel would be made up of representatives of offices including the state attorneys office, the public defenders office and the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust, Reyes said.

Reyes said he thinks this appointment process would insulate the position from pressure from voters and politicians.

Reyes said when he has spoken to his constituents, they have been in favor of creating this office. He said there has been some confusion about whether this would create a new office in addition to the existing office. Reyes wanted to clarify to voters that the Office of the Independent Inspector General would replace the existing Office of the Independent Auditor General.

This item could be seen as a feather in Reyes cap as he prepares for a potential mayoral campaign.

After cancer battle, Miami Commissioner Manolo Reyes plans to run for mayor, God willing

Miami-Dade County already has an Office of the Inspector General, which has been around for more than 25 years, according to its website. Reyes said much of his research as he prepared this item came from looking at the countys office. The county office can issue subpoenas, he said.

Reyes told the Miami Herald he had been researching and working on this item for about a year. He added that addressing corruption is among his top priorities.
Former Republican National Committee (RNC) Chair Michael Steele described the match-up between vice presidential candidates Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) as a contrast between Hillbilly Elegy and a real hillbilly.

I think you got the Hillbilly Elegy against the real hillbilly. Thats going to be Yale versus the guy who actually spent all of his time on the ground fixing F-150s, Steele said Tuesday on MSNBC, where he serves as a political analyst.

Steele was referring to Vances 2016 memoir, Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis, which details the senators experience growing up in Middletown, Ohio, surrounded by poverty and addiction.

Vance, a 40-year-old Marine veteran and Yale Law School graduate, opened up in the book about how the Appalachia region transformed from Democratic to Republican and his chaotic family life

Walz, who leads a blue-leaning state in the American heartland, has roots in rural America. He was born in West Point, Neb., and moved to southern Minnesota in the 1990s with his wife. Serving 24 years in the Army National Guard, he has demonstrated the ability to connect with rural or veteran voters in past congressional races.

I think his [Walzs] narrative is a strong narrative, Steele added in the interview, just a day after Vice President Harris named the Midwest governor as her running mate.

Walz climbed the ranks of Harriss vice presidential shortlist with his attacks on former President Trump and Vance, calling the GOP duo weird. He also recently appeared to challenge the Ohio senators shooting skills, saying Vance couldnt hunt like he can.

Vance, who was added to the GOP ticket during the Republican National Convention last month, said he called Walz after the announcement was made to congratulate him  while criticizing Walz as far left and questioning Harriss decision to elevate him over Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D).

Steele pushed back on the critics who labeled Walz as far left and progressive, pointing to the governors voting record during his six terms in the House.

I dont buy the top line that some are pushing out that this is now a progressive ticket. Look at his voting record in the Congress, hes far from progressive, and last time I checked, feeding kids lunch and breakfast was not a progressive or conservative thing, it was what a governor should do with the students in his state, Steele said Tuesday, in reference to Walzs universal free school breakfast and lunch for Minnesota kids.

So, I think there are a number of counter narratives with respect to what the governor can say about what he did and how he led his state, he added in remarks highlighted by Mediaite.

The more difficult question to answer will be around his handling four years ago of the protests that followed the murder of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis, Steele argued.

Im sure thats something, again, that they have figured out a response to, he added. But I think this is strong, I think its a strong pick.

Republicans were quick to attack Walz over the protests, while some accused the governor of being a socialist for his backing of a number of progressive policies.

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  An 18-member water rescue team from Michigan is heading to South Carolina.

With heavy rain and significant flooding from Tropical Storm Debby expected to last for days, South Carolina has asked for out-of-state support. In response, the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division has deployed Michigan Task Force 1s Type I Swiftwater Team, MSP announced Tuesday.

Tropical Storm Debby drenches Southeast with rain, high water as it drifts along the Atlantic coast

The team includes 18 responders from 10 Michigan fire departments. In South Carolina, MI-TF1  alongside teams from several other states  will conduct water rescues, helping trapped residents, drivers and even animals.

We are proud to answer the call for help from South Carolina, said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the MSP/EMHSD, in a statement. These are dangerous conditions, but we are confident in the abilities of Michigan Task Force 1. We wish them a safe and successful mission.

West Michigan firefighters return from helping in Texas floods

The team is expected to stay in South Carolina through Aug. 15.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Michigan lawmaker who was arrested in June loses reelection bid in Republican primary

CHARLEVOIX, Mich. (AP)  A challenger in northern Michigan defeated a Republican state lawmaker who made headlines in June when he was arrested in the capital city.

Parker Fairbairn won the Republican primary election Tuesday over Rep. Neil Friske and will advance to the fall election.

Michigan Representative Neil Friske arrested in Lansing

Unfortunately, we didnt achieve the results we had all hoped for, but the people of the 107th have spoken, and now it falls upon us to accept the unfortunate outcome, Friske said on Facebook.

Friske was arrested in June when Lansing police responded to reports of possible gunshots in the middle of the night. He has not been charged and denies wrongdoing.

Rep. Friske investigated on gun, sex assault allegations, Ingham Co. Prosecutor says

Friske will remain in office through Dec. 31. He represents Charlevoix and Emmet counties and portions of Cheboygan, Chippewa and Mackinac counties.

Friskes family operates a popular fruit orchard in Charlevoix County.

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Michigan man arrested at Kentucky travel stop, claiming he was there to meet with the mafia

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. (FOX 56)  The case against a Michigan man was handed over to a grand jury on Monday, per court documents.

Justin Temple, 32, was arrested around 9:20 p.m. on July 26 at a Williamsburg Piolit Travel Center. An arrest citation states that travel center management made the call reporting a man passed out in the drivers seat of a white Cadillac Escalade and was worried for his well-being.

Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news

Williamsburg police officers were able to wake Temple, who became frantic, shaking, and slurred his speech. Police said that Temple told officers he was armed with a handgun that was lying under his lap due to the fact he was scared due to the mafia coming after him.

Temple allegedly told officers that he was at the travel center to meet with someone from the mafia.

A K9 officer arrived and alerted to suspected heroin on a dollar bill, court documents state, and officers also found scales and several smoking pipes.

First responders reportedly ran the Escalades VIN number through the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS) which showed that the vehicle had been stolen out of Georgia. It also alerted that Temple was a convicted felon, according to law enforcement.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

Temple was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, buying or possessing drug paraphernalia, public intoxication by a controlled substance, and receiving stolen property.

He was booked at the Whitley County Detention Center (WCDC) on a $20,000 bond.

Court records state that the case against Temple was handed over to a grand jury on Monday, he remains lodged at the WCDC.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
People stop and visit outside Michigan State Universitys Berkey Hall, which was illuminated green as a tribute to those affected by the mass shooting a year ago, on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, in East Lansing.

EAST LANSING  Two spaces that were sealed off after the mass shooting on Michigan State University's campus last year will be reopening for the fall semester.

The former food court area of the MSU Union, where student Brian Fraser was killed, and the classroom spaces on the first floor of Berkey Hall, where students Arielle Anderson and Alexandria Verner were killed, will be reopening, President Kevin Guskiewicz wrote in a letter to the community

"The public area of what was formerly the (MSU Union) food court will be opened to guests the week after the Labor Day holiday," Guskiewicz wrote in the letter. "This new space will allow individuals to gather, engage and socialize in an open and peaceful setting. There is no academic programming currently planned for the renovated space."

The classrooms in Berkey will no longer be used for instruction, Guskiewicz noted.

"The location where the violence occurred is being renovated into an open space for individuals to gather, engage and reflect," Guskiewicz wrote. "The remaining classrooms in the wing have been transformed into small-group meeting rooms, a reflection room, single-occupant accessible restrooms and a personal health room. The College of Social Science will use some of that space for offices providing student services."

Guskiewicz acknowledged that some students may still feel uncomfortable entering the spaces.

"For some, reentering these spaces may be too difficult or stressful, and we support you regardless of what decision you make," he wrote. "Through ongoing conversations involving students, faculty, staff and trauma experts, we chose to open these spaces in a way that allows the campus community to come together in a spirit of support and engagement."

He also announced that, just like in 2024, most classes would not meet on Feb. 13, 2025, two years to the day after the shooting. The university will remain open to support students and community members, and Guskiewicz said employees could choose to use one of their paid day off options that day.

Guskiewicz added that the Feb. 13 Permanent Memorial Planning Committee has collected survey responses for the permanent memorial to honor those who were killed and wounded. The committee will be presenting a final selection of proposals for community input this fall, according to the Spartans Together website.

Contact Sarah Atwood at satwood@lsj.com. Follow her on X @sarahmatwood.

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: MSU reopening spaces in Union, Berkey Hall where students were killed
A botched security software update to Microsoft computers last month led to a global IT outage as companies like Delta Air Lines struggled to get their operations back up and running as quickly as possible. Since then, Delta has spoken out about Microsoft and CrowdStrike's inability to help solve the problem, but both have since pushed back on those claims.

On Aug. 6, Microsoft shot down the idea that they refused to help Delta recover from the outage faster. A letter from attorney Mark Cheffo stated that Microsoft "immediately jumped in and offered to assist Delta at no charge" despite the underlying issue being with CrowdStrike. (CrowdStrike, for its part, declared on Aug. 4 that Delta turned down offers to help speed along the recovery.) According to the note, Microsoft employees asked Delta employees if they needed help every day from July 19 to 23.

"On the morning of July 22, a Microsoft employee, aware that Delta was having more difficulty recovering than any other airline, messaged a Delta employee to say, 'Just checking in and no pressure to reply, but if you can think of anything your Microsoft team can be helping with today, just say the word,'" the letter read, per CNN. "The Delta employee replied, saying 'All good. Cool, will let you know and thank you.'"

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella reportedly also emailed Delta CEO Ed Bastian on July 24. The tech conglomerate claimed that Delta's outdated technology systems could explain why the company allegedly turned down help.

"It is rapidly becoming apparent that Delta likely refused Microsofts help because the IT system it was most having trouble restoringits crew-tracking and scheduling systemwas being serviced by other technology providers, such as IBM, because it runs on those providers systems, and not Microsoft Windows or Azure," the letter said. A preliminary review by the company seemingly suggests that Delta hasn't "modernized its IT infrastructure" while its competitors have.

In response to those claims, Delta reassured customers that its systems are up to date. "Delta has a long track record of investing in safe, reliable and elevated service for our customers and employees," the airline said in a statement, per The New York Times. "Since 2016, Delta has invested billions of dollars in IT capital expenditures, in addition to the billions spent annually in IT operating costs."

Related: Delta CEO Gives End Date for Company's Travel Meltdown

The rebuke comes a week after Bastian sat down for a CNBC interview and laid the blame for the long recovery timethe longest of any other major U.S. airlineon Microsoft and CrowdStrike. "They havent offered us anything. Free consulting advice to help us," he said bluntly. He also hinted that legal action was on the way due to the profits lost during that time.

"[The issue is] at Microsoft and CrowdStrike, and we are heavy with both. We are by far the heaviest in the industry with both. And so we got hit the hardest in terms of the recovery," Bastian said. "I think this is a call to the industry. Everyone talks about making sure Big Tech is responsible. Well, guys, this cost us a half a billion dollars."

Simply put, Bastian said "We have no choice" when it comes to bringing a lawsuit.

"[We lost money] over a period of five days, not just between the lost revenue, but the tens of millions of dollars per day in compensation and hotels, and we did everything we could to take care of our customers over that time frame," he said. "You can't come in to a mission-critical, 24/7 operation and tell us we have a bug. It doesn't work."

Thankfully, your travel plans for the rest of the summer won't be affected.
Julia Callahan was excited to have another baby. A mother of one child, she found out she was pregnant in July 2022. She was overjoyed to grow her family, until things took a turn for the worse.

Just days later, Callahan felt a sensation like her water breaking. She felt sick and spoke with health care providers at her next appointment, and while they believed she was miscarrying, tests showed she was still pregnant. Unsure of what to do, doctors sent her home to recuperate.

The next month was excruciating, Callahan said. She vomited so often that she depleted the electrolytes in her body, causing heart palpitations.

I feared I would die, and my family feared the same, Callahan said.

After multiple visits to doctors offices and hospitals, Callahan finally discovered that she was pregnant with twins. While one fetus was viable, the other was not. Doctors offered her a shot containing medication to help end the nonviable pregnancy.

I had a child back home I wanted to live for. I had to survive for her, said Callahan.

Callahan, who helped found Middle Georgia 4 Choice, shared her story alongside other Middle Georgia abortion rights advocates on a panel Friday. She credits the shot with saving her life, but because the shot couldve endangered her viable pregnancy, she fears that the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022 may mean women in the same situation wont have access to the same care she did.

The panelists are not alone. Abortion has become a key issue for Georgians ahead of the 2024 presidential election, and has been a major point of contention for years.

A hot button issue

Georgia had already seen conflict around abortion prior to the Supreme Courts 2022 decision to end federal abortion rights protections.

In 2019, Georgia enacted a law that banned most abortions at six weeks, which is when fetal cardiac activity can be detected. The law was overturned by a federal judge, citing Roe v. Wade, the decision that protected abortion rights.

In 2023, about a year after the ruling was overturned, the Georgia Supreme Court reinstated the legislation banning most abortions at six weeks.

Following the Supreme Courts 2022 decision, Callahan partnered with other Middle Georgia residents, including Mia Robbins-Aguilar, to organize a protest against the decision. The women eventually founded a permanent group, Middle Georgia 4 Choice, to advance abortion rights at the local, state and federal levels.

Fridays panelists represented a diverse slate of women, each with their own reasons for being there. Robbins-Aguilar said her reasons for speaking on the panel were the same as when she founded the group: she wants young women and girls to have the same rights she had as a young person.

I am afraid for my nieces and every young girl that I come into contact with, Robbins-Aguilar said. They should all have the same rights that I had. They should all have access to care and medical treatment.

Others expressed concern for their community. Tina Taft Hobson, who grew up in a rural community in southwest Georgia, said she watched many of her peers become pregnant as teenagers due to a lack of comprehensive sex education and abortion access. Previous reporting by The Telegraph documented similar issues in Middle Georgia.

If you dont know what youre doing, youre going to end up getting pregnant, Taft Hobson said. I think thats a one-to-one connection.

Women who have children as teenagers are significantly less likely to finish high school and attend college, according to the National Library of Medicine. They also on average earn lower incomes than their peers who do not become pregnant as teenagers.

Supporters of Georgias abortion law say that it would not endanger womens lives because it has exceptions for medical emergencies that present serious threats to a womans life or health.

The election?

While many panelists and attendees wore clothes and carried signs displaying abortion rights slogans, others also bought T-shirts and signs supporting Vice President Kamala Harris presidential bid.

Since the overturning of Roe, abortion has become a major electoral issue, motivating some female voters across America to head to the ballot box for abortion rights candidates and to stop amendments to state constitutions limiting abortion rights. Harris has promised to protect abortion rights if elected.

The panel was organized by Ride to Decide, an abortion rights advocacy group visiting a range of locations to host events with local activists. After Macon, they made a stop in Atlanta. Georgia is especially key to abortion rights advocates because it stands to be a major player in this years presidential election, and abortion has already been a key issue in other races in the state.

Drawing on her own experiences, Callahan emphasized her belief that electoral power is key to protecting abortion rights. She said she hopes to restore abortion rights in Georgia through the ballot box.

Women in the same position are being denied life-saving care and being threatened with prosecutions, Callahan said.
There might be a bad batch of drugs in our county: Sheriffs office in Wisconsin alerts public after 3 Narcan incidents in 24 hours

There might be a bad batch of drugs in our county: Sheriffs office in Wisconsin alerts public after 3 Narcan incidents in 24 hours

(WFRV)  Authorities in northwestern Wisconsin are issuing a reminder to the public after multiple instances of people needing Narcan.

The Barron County Sheriffs Office posted on its Facebook page that law enforcement in the county has given Narcan to three different people who were not fully responsive in public settings. This reportedly happened in separate areas across the county. It was also mentioned that this is not common for law enforcement in Barron County.

Officials say they wanted to make the public aware of these incidents in case someone sees someone who looks like theyre sleeping in public to call 911. Additionally, authorities said there could be a bad batch of drugs in the community.

Wisconsin 14-year-old charged in connection to a fatal hit-and-run, could face up to 132 years in prison

The post said that Narcan is available for free at Barron County Public Health and can also be discreetly mailed at no cost. More information about the mailing option can be found here.

No additional information was provided. Local 5 will update this story if more details are released.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
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 declined to comment on ongoing litigation. The city of Chicagos Law Department did not respond to requests for comment.

On Wednesday, Home Depot released a statement that it is investigating the allegations.

We take allegations of violence very seriously and are investigating this issue, the statement said. We believe in respecting all people, and we dont tolerate violence or discrimination.

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  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 declined to comment on ongoing litigation. The city of Chicagos Law Department did not respond to requests for comment.

On Wednesday, Home Depot released a statement that it is investigating the allegations.

We take allegations of violence very seriously and are investigating this issue, the statement said. We believe in respecting all people, and we dont tolerate violence or discrimination.

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.
Mike Kehoe, who voters chose Tuesday in the Republican primary for governor, speaks about beating the odds after walking into his election-night party in Jefferson City (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

Missouri Republicans ratified Gov. Mike Parsons choice of successor Tuesday by nominating Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, rejecting the scion of a veteran political family and the disruptive tactics of the GOPs most vocal faction.

Kehoe trailed Ashcroft in most polls until this summer, when the $16 million campaign warchest he amassed in his campaign fund and joint fundraising PAC enabled Kehoe to fill the airwaves, overwhelming opponents and surviving a late onslaught of outside spending.

On Tuesday, he bested his rivals with just under 40% of the vote.

Fifteen months ago, people said we couldnt win, Kehoe told supporters gathered in Jefferson City Tuesday. Our own polling showed us 35 points at an underdog But we believed in our cause, and more importantly, you believe in us.

The job now for Kehoe will be to bring his party together following his victory, especially bringing Eigels supporters into the fold. Kehoe endured attacks for his support of higher fuel taxes, votes to allow foreign ownership of farmland and used derisive nicknames like RINO (Republican in name only), Tax Hike Mike and Kung Pao Kehoe.

Those ads didnt move Nick Schatzer of Ashland, who voted for Kehoe on Tuesday.

Look at our roads, he said. They need work.

Schatzer said Kehoes background won him over.

I feel like government is essentially a business, he said. Hes run several businesses and been successful.

While no candidate gained a significant advantage when the biggest voice in todays Republican Party, former President Donald Trump, endorsed all three leading contenders, it did help deflect some of the criticism aimed at Kehoe.

Throughout the primary, Kehoe had his eye on the general election in a way his rivals did not.

Missourians are a little bit sick of hate politics, Kehoe said in a July interview with The Independent.

Ashcroft was the first to concede shortly after 9:30 p.m., asking Missourians to join me in asking God to bless Mike Kehoe, as hes the Republican nominee for governor.

Eigel conceded soon after, congratulating Kehoe and wishing him success as you take on the responsibilities of leading our state.

The issues we discussed during this campaign, theyre critical, Eigel said. Theyre crucial to Missouris futures, and I hope that you will address them with the same vigor and commitment that we brought to this race.

Kehoe is the youngest of six children raised by a single mother in St. Louis. His mom worked three jobs to support the family, he said, and when he was old enough he got a job washing cars at a local auto dealership.

When he had enough money, he bought a struggling company that built ambulances, doubling it in size over the next five years to what is now one of the largest ambulance manufacturers in the world.

At the age of 30, he bought a Ford dealership in Jefferson City, putting down roots in the community and building the business over the next two decades. He sold the dealership in 2011.

He was elected to the state Senate in 2012 and was the chambers majority leader when Parson appointed him lieutenant governor in 2018. Kehoe won a full term as lieutenant governor in 2020.

The Independents Rebecca Rivas and Annelise Hanshaw contributed to this story.
Argentine President Javier Milei announced an ambitious plan to use artificial intelligence to predict, detect, and investigate crimes. While the initiative aims to enhance security, it raises serious concerns about extensive surveillance and policing.



Last week, Argentina's Ministry of Security unveiled the Artificial Intelligence Applied to Security Unit (UIAAS), which aims to use "machine-learning algorithms to analyze historical crime data to predict future crimes and help prevent them." The tools at the UIAAS's disposal include facial recognition software, social media monitoring, drone surveillance, and real-time security footage analysis to identify political threats and criminal groups.

"The advancement of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, represents one of the most relevant socio-technological changes for the general population," said Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, citing the United States, China, India, and Israel as examples of countries using AI in security operations.



Bullrich emphasized that the UIAAS would "significantly improve the efficiency of the different areas of the ministry and of the federal police and security forces, allowing for faster and more precise responses to threats and emergencies."

The new AI unit will consist of police officers and agents from various security forces tasked with overseeing the "prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of crime." Key functions include identifying cyber threats, handling bomb disposal with robots, enhancing communication speed among security teams, and managing large volumes of data. Additionally, the UIAAS will monitor social media networks in real time to detect potential threats, suspicious financial transactions, and other indicators of illegal activities.

Despite Milei's libertarian stance on several issues like privatization and deregulation, there are growing fears that Argentina's predictive policing program could become a tool for oppression, leading to extensive monitoring of citizens and threats to their freedoms.



"Large-scale surveillance affects freedom of expression because it encourages people to self-censor or refrain from sharing their ideas or criticisms," says Amnesty International Executive Director Mariela Belski about the program.



"The government body created to patrol social networks, applications and websites contradicts several articles of the National Constitution," Martin Becerra, a professor and researcher in media and information technology, told El Pais. "The government of Milei (and Bullrich) is anti-liberal. It decrees new regulations, reinforces the state's repressive function, increases the opacity of public funds and eliminates norms that sought to protect the most vulnerable."

While predictive policing promises to target future risks and lower crime rates, it "has become just another excuse for the authorities to hammer those who rub them the wrong way," explains Reason's J.D. Tuccille. Similar programs in the U.S. have faced scrutiny for misusing data to target innocent people.



"The accuracy of predictive policing programs depends on the accuracy of the information they are fed," Reason's Ronald Bailey notes. "We should always keep in mind that any new technology that helps the police to better protect citizens can also be used to better oppress them."



Argentina's own history with surveillance technology adds weight to these concerns. In 2019, Buenos Aires implemented a facial recognition surveillance system, known as the Fugitive Facial Recognition System (SNRP), to identify fugitives by matching video images with a national database. But the system led to several wrongful arrests and the unlawful collection of data on hundreds of journalists, academics, and human rights activists. Legal challenges resulted in the suspension of the program in 2022, after a court ruled it unconstitutional due to inadequate control and oversight.



"Only Argentina's around 40,000 fugitives from justice may be searched for with the system," Judge Andres Gallardo said about the SNRP investigation. "But the number of personal data requested by the city was almost 10 million. The government could never explain why so much data was requested that did not belong to fugitives."

The post Will Milei's AI Policing Plan Become a Tool for Social Control? appeared first on Reason.com.
Military land designation defies the norm after opening conservation opportunity for Great Salt Lake: 'We can all work toward a common purpose'

Conservation isn't generally a task associated with the U.S. military, but a new land partnership in Utah is turning that idea on its head.

In May 2024, the federal government designated over 2.7 million acres as the Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape, Utah Public Radio reported. Sentinel landscapes are "areas where conservation, working lands, and national defense interests converge," according to the Sentinel Landscapes website.

Sentinel landscapes  there are 17 total, from Hawaii to South Carolina  are anchored by at least one high-value military installation or range and contain high-priority lands for the Department of Agriculture, Department of Defense, and Department of the Interior. In fact, the Great Salt Lake Sentinel Landscape is home to Hill Air Force Base, Camp Williams, Tooele Army Depot, and Air Force Little Mountain Test Facility, according to UPR.

The lake's sentinel landscape coordinator Tyler Smith, who spoke with UPR, said it is in the military's best interests to protect a healthy landscape, as flooding, droughts, and wildfires associated with a warming planet can impact training operations.

Meanwhile, conservationists stand to gain collaborative opportunities through the new land designation that will help them secure funding and improve the coordination of their efforts.

"It's bringing together all these different partners from various levels, whether it's local, county, state, federal, and then the nonprofit organizations as well, so that we can all work toward a common purpose," said Elizabeth Carter, a land protection director with The Nature Conservancy, which has a nature preserve in the landscape, per UPR.

One of the main goals of the new sentinel landscape is to mitigate the effects of catastrophic wildfires through fuel management and agency collaboration. This will be especially important as scientists predict increased wildfire risks  even in areas not accustomed to these disasters  as our planet continues to overheat.

One way you can help in the fight against a warming world is by changing the way you get around, such as ditching the gas guzzler for an electric car, using public transport, or choosing to cycle or walk.

The sentinel landscape also aims to protect water sources and the Great Salt Lake Ecosystem  according to the Utah Department of Natural Resources, the Great Salt Lake pumps $1.9 billion into the economy each year and employs around 7,700 people.

Furthermore, the marshes, mudflats, and meadows surrounding the Great Salt Lake provide crucial stopover, wintering, and nesting habitat for millions of shorebirds and waterfowl, according to the State of Utah.

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.
Millions of dollars raised for Lahaina, but where did the money go?

HONOLULU (KHON2)  Thousands of people around the world, especially here in Hawaii, immediately heeded the call for help after the fires, raising hundreds of millions of dollars. So where did the money go?

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In the immediate aftermath of Mauis devastating wildfires last August, help started pouring in and that included heartfelt donations of whatever people across Hawaii and the world could afford. It added up quickly.

Ka Lai Ola in West Maui to house 1,500 survivors

Micah Kane, president and CEO of the Hawaii Community Foundation, revealed nearly $200 million was raised for Lahaina.

The Hawaii Community Foundation instantly teed up existing island-specific fundraising that started back in 2018.

How, where to get your free SPAM musubi across the U.S. and Hawaii

We started strong funds in each of the counties, said Kane. A lot of our resources are going towards shelter and lodging. Over $50 million just in housing alone. Direct financial assistance, which really helps with filling gaps allowing families to put the resources where needed, over $25 million there.

Once the fires hit, the Maui Strong Fund we know today was already set up to coordinate donation intake and grant output to help the community.

Just over half of the money raised was distributed  $110 million through 200 community organizations.

A new immersive, virtual experience into Hawaiis past is available in Honolulu

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is one of Maui Strong Funds biggest nonprofit recipients, plus received thousands of direct donations as well.

CNHA has raised around $40 million. Weve spent just over $15 million on building homes, and weve probably spent another five or six [million] on rental programs to help families stabilize, said Kuhio Lewis, Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.

And we even have our workforce programs, our resource centers. Were managing the distribution of all the large-scale things that have come in, like furniture, Kane added.

American Red Cross, another major recipient of heartfelt donations, saw more than $90 million in monetary, goods and services, donations pour in.

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MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- As summer vacation comes to an end and students head back to school, Midland ISD has reminded drivers to slow down as pedestrian traffic increases.

Midland ISD students are scheduled to return to school on Tuesday, August 13, with bus route practices beginning Thursday, August 8th. As the first day of school approaches, MISD has urged drivers to help keep the students and community safe by following school zone signs, slowing down, and watching for pedestrians.

Midland ISD stated that the MISD Police would be present around all schools and would have a zero-tolerance policy for speeding.

Our department will be very present as we return to regular patrols at schools, said MISD Police Chief Scott McKown. Drivers should be aware that school is back in session and be mindful of students who may attempt to cross the street.

MISD also announced that the flashing school zone lights will be activated on days when school is in session and reminded drivers that vehicles on both sides of the road are required to stop for a school bus when the bus stop sign is displayed, and using a cell phone in a school zone is prohibited and could result in a fine.

Midland ISD is committed to ensuring the safety of all students and staff as we start the new school year. Lets work together to create a safe environment for everyone, the MISD announcement stated.

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Here is the location of the outdoor storage container site being sought for a zoning variance by Morris Sales LLC on 12th Street in Mishawaka

MISHAWAKA  A fireworks retail business will be able to store fireworks in two outdoor storage containers on its property after the Common Council approved a zoning variance.

First, however, Charles Long, owner of Morris Sales Inc., had to agree to certain restrictions after a neighboring business objected and council members raised safety concerns. Morris Sales also operates as Mishawaka Fireworks and also sells bingo supplies under the name Morris Sales.

The temporary fireworks stands that pop up before the Fourth of July commonly use containers as temporary storage areas, but permanent storage containers are prohibited in commercial areas, according to city ordinance.

At the suggestion of Mishawaka Fire Marshal Bill Dempler, the company  located at the southeast corner of a building at 940 E. 12th St., east of Merrifield Avenue  asked the city for the zoning variance in order to store more products outside its store. Dempler's office routinely performs business fire inspections.

But Tony Balentine, vice president of Builder's Iron Works Inc., said in a letter of opposition to the variance that the store has caused problems at his business over shooting off products at times throughout the year.

Balentine said the debris from fireworks set off by Morris Sales employees has fallen on his company's property and, one time, the debris caused a grass fire.

Long acknowledged that the fireworks store's employees have in the past shot off fireworks, both during the times and dates allowed in the city by ordinance and at other times. The problems with the fireworks displays was part of the comments filed by owners of Builder's Iron Works, which is located east of Morris Sales.

Long said on Monday that should the variance be granted, he promised that no fireworks would ever again be shot off from the Morris Sales property.

As for safety concerns, officials from Morris Sales, which has a state fireworks retail sales permit from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, said it has installed a fire barrier and a revised fire suppression system inside the store.

Council members, however, were concerned about the potential fire hazards with outdoor containers, but both Dempler and officials for the business said storage containers are used for transportation of fireworks from manufacturing facilities overseas, and temperatures inside them rarely reach temperatures that would cause them to burn spontaneously.

Dempler said the storage containers were an allowable use for fireworks.

"This is not a matter of the (fire) code," he said. "It's a matter of the zoning."

More: Find out when fireworks may be used on and around the Fourth of July in St. Joseph County

Dempler said fighting fires at fireworks retail stores such as Morris Sales are more problematic inside a building than if a fire occurred in a storage container outside a structure. A container can be isolated, he said, whereas fighting a fire inside a building has many associated risks to other parts of the building, to anyone inside and because of other factors.

As part of the variance, the fireworks business will be required to have slats in the fencing facing 12th Street to prevent views of them. Also, the containers will need to be placed according to the fire department's standards as to setbacks to ensure fire trucks could reach them.

Long said he would be purchasing containers with extra safety ratings for such things as toxic chemicals and explosions. He also has agreed to have a full-time camera monitoring system on the external containers.

The council voted 7-0 to allow the containers. Council members Dale "Woody" Emmons and Lacy Hahn were not in attendance.

Email Tribune staff writer Greg Swiercz at gswiercz@sbtinfo.com.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Mishawaka business allowed to store fireworks in storage containers
Investors can get through a withering period of market volatility by gravitating toward stocks in specific sectors, BofA analysts said. AP Photo/Koji Sasahara

Stock market volatility surged to historic levels, with the VIX spiking as much as 172% on Monday.

Bank of America strategist Savita Subramanian expects more volatility ahead.

Subramanian said investors should buy defensive stocks so they can "sleep at night."

Volatility in the stock market made a historic surge on Monday, and it might not be over.

According to Bank of America strategist Savita Subramanian, investors should "get used to the volatility."

"Prior presidential election years have seen the VIX increase by about 25% from July-November in tandem with rising policy uncertainty," Subramanian explained.

The CBOE Volatility Index, more commonly referred to as the VIX, soared as much as 172% to the 65 level on Monday, representing its largest intra-day gain on record, even surpassing intra-day gains seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Great Recession in 2008.

To combat expectations of continued volatility, Subramanian said investors should buy defensive stocks that would allow them to "sleep at night."

"The best hedge is owning high quality stocks," Subramanian said of combating market volatility.

Most of these defensive stocks are found in defensive sectors, which include consumer staples, healthcare, real estate, and utilities.

They're considered defensive because even during periods of economic downturns, their products and services still see reliable demand.

To screen for these stocks, the strategist focused on companies that have stability in both their earnings and dividend payments.

"Market tranches based on quality have a well-behaved relationship with the VIX  the highest quality stocks tend to outperform as the VIX rises while the lowest quality stocks tend to large the most," Subramanian explained.

Subramanian created a screen for stocks to buy during the market volatility. The filtering includes S&P 500 stocks that have earnings and dividend stability, offer low beta, are less held by investment funds, and have "Buy" ratings by Bank of America analysts.

These are the four defensive sectors that tend to outperform during market downturns, according to Bank of America.

Consumer staples  Stocks in this sector include Procter & Gamble, Kroger, PepsiCo, and Walmart,

Utilities  Investors eyeing utilities should look at stocks including Consolidated Edison, Alliant Energy, and CMS Energy.

Healthcare  Defensive healthcare stocks include ResMed and Quest Diagnostics.

Real Estate  Stocks to consider in this sector include Essex Property Trust, and Digital Realty Trust.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Mississippi deputy who bribed a jailed woman for sexual favors gets one day in prison

A former Noxubee County deputy will spend one day in prison after a federal judge said Tuesday that the jailed woman he had sex with for years wasnt really a victim.

District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III also gave Vance Phillips a $2,500 fine and eight months home detention that will enable him to continue his job with the ambulance service, go to church and see a doctor if he needs to.

The judge described the inmate  who accused Phillips and others of sexual abuse in a lawsuit  as a willing participant who exchanged sexual favors for contraband.

In both Mississippi and federal prisons, it is a crime for an officer to bring in contraband. It is also a felony to have sex with any inmate. Under state law, a convicted officer faces up to five years in prison; under federal law, that maximum is 15 years.

District Attorney Scott Colom, whose office handles criminal cases in Noxubee County, chose to pass his 2020 investigation on to federal prosecutors because of worries about getting a fair jury in such a small county.

It would take two years for a grand jury to indict Phillips and former Sheriff Terry Grassaree.

Instead of being charged with a sex crime, he faced federal bribery charges. In this case, the bribes were exchanging sexual favors and photographs for bringing contraband, including tobacco and cellphones, into the Noxubee County Jail.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Purdie said the jailed woman spent four years behind bars, from 2015 to 2019, for a homicide she didnt commit and did what she had to do in order to survive. No officer was charged with bringing contraband into the jail, but she was.

In her victim impact statement read to the court, Elizabeth Layne Reed said she felt she had to give people what they wanted to avoid further punishment.

She said she was heavily impacted by what Phillips and his then-boss, Grassaree, did to her.

I feel guilty for his family members who didnt know what was going on, but I dont feel guilty about Vance Phillips who knowingly did what he did, she wrote. Women and men are supposed to be protected while they are incarcerated.

She said the abuse has created trust issues in her relationship with her husband.

She also said she prays that people who sexually abuse those behind bars are held accountable and that she hopes other victims will use their voice and come forward to help stop the abuse that happens every day behind bars.

Public Defender Princess Abby said Phillips was an officer who dreamed of becoming a state trooper. Now that dream is out the window, she said.

She argued for four months house detention, saying Phillips was an otherwise respected member of his community who played the drums for his church band and had no previous criminal history.

She said what happened was outside his normal behavior and that he is now married with three sons.

But Jordan noted that what happened was far from a one-time indiscretion. Instead, he said, Phillips had sex with the inmate for years.

He called what the then-deputy did a considerable breach of public trust.

But in sentencing Phillips, the judge also blamed the jailed woman and said, It would be different if she was raped.

In her 2020 lawsuit, Reed said that multiple deputies and Grassaree touched her sexually as well as demanded nude photographs from her contraband cellphone. Noxubee County settled that lawsuit for an undisclosed amount.

The judge noted that Phillips is currently working a 60-hour-week job and that he didnt want to disturb that.

He said a stack of character letters said glowing things about Phillips, but he noted that many barely knew about the crime. One writer called the former deputy a fall guy, but Jordan said that wasnt true because Phillips wasnt the last deputy to have sex with the jailed woman.

Grassaree faces sentencing on Wednesday. He has already pleaded guilty to lying to an FBI agent on July 13, 2020, about making Reed take and share nude photos and videos in exchange for favorable treatment, which included making her a trusted inmate, also known as a trusty.

Jordan said the federal sentencing guidelines put Phillips prison time at between 8 and 14 months. The judge said the guidelines on Grassarees sentence are even less.

As Phillips walked out of the courtroom wearing a jeweled silver cross necklace, he told reporters, I just want to thank God Im not going to jail.
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey fended off a primary challenger Tuesday night as he fights for his first full term, according to Decision Desk HQ.

Bailey was appointed to the attorney general role by Gov. Mike Parson (R) back in 2022, filling a vacancy after Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) won a seat in the upper chamber.

With Parsons backing, Bailey defeated Trump attorney Will Scharf, and now has the edge to win the seat in the ruby-red state this fall.

Both candidates entered Tuesdays contest with an endorsement from former President Trump, who said in a Truth Social post that these two men are truly outstanding in every way, shape, and form and that neither one will ever let you down.

The state-level attorney general race has seen millions of dollars in outside spending as some groups looked to elevate the member of Trumps legal team over the incumbent, despite Baileys record of conservative moves, including filing a lawsuit against Planned Parenthood earlier this year.

Bailey is now set to face Democrat Elad Gross and Libertarian Ryan Munro in the fall.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell defeated Bush in their Democratic primary race on Aug. 6, putting an early end to the progressive lawmaker's reelection campaign

Chip Somodevilla/Getty Cori Bush

Missouri Rep. Cori Bush failed to earn her party's support for reelection in Missouri's 1st Congressional District on Tuesday, Aug. 6, putting an early end to her House campaign.

Bush lost the Democratic primary race to St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell, according to the Associated Press, making her the second member of the progressive congressional clique "The Squad" to be defeated in the 2024 primary elections.

Bell posted about his win on social media on Wednesday, Aug. 7, writing, "When I say we need to work together to move the #stlouis region forward, it's not just campaign-talk or rhetoric, but as the voters of the 1st District said loudly and clearly  it is the expectation."

He added, "I am honored & humbled to be chosen as the Dem nominee for the 1st District."

Michael B. Thomas/Getty Cori Bush

The congresswoman has represented the St. Louis area since 2020 and was running for a third term. In her concession speech, she said shes still dedicated to "taking care of my people" regardless of her title, AP reports.

Related: Cori Bush to Become Newest Member of 'The Squad' After Winning Historic Mo. Congressional Race

Bush's official bio describes her as an activist, nurse and a pastor. In her first year on the job, she introduced legislation to support the Green New Deal and keep people from being evicted during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also supports Medicare for All and access to abortion care.

Bush's platform was raised when she joined "The Squad," a left-wing group of House members founded in 2019 by four congresswomen and women of color Ilhan Omar, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rashida Tlaib and Ayanna Pressley.

Related: Tim Walz Joins Kamala Harris on Stage Hours After Hes Named Her 2024 Running Mate

The group has expanded as new progressives have been elected, now including representatives like Bush, Pennsylvania Rep. Summer Lee, Texas Rep. Greg Casar and New York Rep. Jamaal Bowman.

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Bush is the second member of the group to lose their reelection bid so far this year, with the first being Bowman, who was defeated by Democratic challenger George Latimer in June.

Both Bush and Bowman have been vocal in their criticism of Israel amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, with AP also noting that the pro-Israel PAC United Democracy Project supported their opponents with millions of dollars. The outlet reports that the PAC spent $8.5 million to unseat Bush and $15 million to do the same to Bowman.

In a statement obtained by AP, United Democracy Project praised Bell and Latimers recent wins, calling them "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."

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BOONE COUNTY, Mo.  Missouri Task Force 1, the states urban search and rescue task force, will deploy teams to North Carolina to offer assistance in response to Tropical Storm Debby.

Missouri Task Force 1s Type III team is heading to Raleigh in anticipation of a hurricane-strength tropical storm. Some spots of North Carolina and South Carolina, specifically communities further east, could see around eight inches of rain over the next several days and the tropical storm could reach top speeds up to 50 miles per hour, according to Nexstar affiliate WNCN.

Rapper Nelly arrested in Maryland Heights Wednesday morning

The Missouri team will consist of 35 members and 10 ground-support personnel. Their main goal is to offer support for potential water rescue operations.

Missouri Task Force 1 will meet with Pennsylvania and New Jerseys Tennessee Task Force 1 teams near Raleigh, staging in the area there until requested for specific missions.

Missouris team deployed from Boone County at 2 a.m. Wednesday and expects to reach Raleigh by Wednesday evening.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
A Kansas City police van sits outside a patrol station on Linwood Boulevard (Allison Kite/Missouri Independent).

Missourians on Tuesday voted to require Kansas City to spend more of its municipal budget on policing, reinstating a policy that had been overturned by the state supreme court.

The race was called by the Associated Press at 11:30 p.m., with the amendment winning 51% to 48%. That means the Missouri Constitution will be amended to require Kansas City to spend at least 25% of its general revenue on police, amounting to tens of millions of dollars per year.

While it provides funding for the department, Kansas City is the only major city in the U.S. that doesnt have local control of its police. The Kansas City Police Department is governed by the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners, which includes the mayor and four members appointed by the Missouri governor. That means while the City Council writes the checks for the Kansas City police, they have no control over how funds are spent.

Between the 1950s and 2022, Kansas City was required to spend at least 20% of its general revenue on police and often exceeded that. But in 2020, as racial justice protesters pushed for police reform across the nation, Kansas City sought to exert more influence over the police budget.

Following the protests, sparked by the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Kansas City officials attempted to set aside $42 million in police funding  above its obligatory 20% spending  for community engagement, outreach, prevention, intervention and other public services in an attempt to increase police accountability.

But the move was lambasted by Missouri Republicans, who claimed City Hall was trying to defund the police.

Missouri lawmakers responded with legislation requiring Kansas City to spend at least 25% of its revenue on police, which passed in the spring of 2022 on a largely party-line vote with Republicans supporting increased police spending.

Voters then, in the fall of 2022, approved the legislation with 63% of the vote. The policy was unpopular, however, in the Jackson County portion of Kansas City where 61% of voters rejected it. It passed in Platte and Clay counties, which include suburban parts of Kansas City.

After the vote, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas challenged the election in court, saying a summary printed on voters ballots materially misstated the cost of the proposal.

The fiscal note summary accompanying the 2022 amendment said the requirement that Kansas City spend at least 25% of its revenue on police would result in no additional costs or savings. The state argued that because the city had voluntarily granted that much in the past, the amendment simply removed the citys discretion rather than imposing a new cost.

City Hall, however, argued the mandate could potentially cost other departments up to $38.7 million in budget cuts.

The Missouri Supreme Court agreed with the city and ordered the results of that election be tossed and a new vote be held, paving the way for Tuesdays vote.
COLUMBIA, Mo.  Missouri voters nominated Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe to be the Republican candidate for governor. He edged out Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel to win the GOP nomination, a huge advantage in a strongly conservative state currently without any Democratic statewide officials.

Crystal Quade, currently the minority leader in the Missouri House, won the Democratic nomination for governor in Missouri primary election, beating Springfield businessman Mike Hamra, among others.

The GOP fight for the governorship was mainly between Ashcroft, who comes from a Missouri political dynasty, and Kehoe, a powerhouse in fundraising who was endorsed by Parson to be his successor.

Ashcroft had considerable name recognition after serving as secretary of state since 2017. His father, John Ashcroft, served as Missouri governor, a U.S. senator and U.S. attorney general under former President George W. Bush

Kehoe and his supporters poured money into his campaign and advertisements to make up for Ashcrofts lead in name identification. Roughly a week before Tuesdays primary, his campaign reported raising $4.2 million over the election cycle, more than three times what Ashcroft raised.

Pro-Kehoe political action committee American Dream PAC also brought in more than $7 million, more than double the close to $3 million raised by Committee 4 Liberty, which backs Ashcroft.

Kehoe assumed the lieutenant governors seat in 2018. He was appointed to the position following a government reshuffling when former Gov. Eric Greitens resigned in the face of potential impeachment that year. Mike Parson was serving as lieutenant governor but ascended to the governors office when Greitens left. Parson then tapped Kehoe to replace him as lieutenant governor. Kehoe had been serving as the second-highest ranking state senator at the time.

Kehoe was first elected to the state Senate in 2010 after years as a car dealership owner. As majority floor leader, he oversaw legislation that restricted unions and that Republicans said would help local businesses.

Republican Gov. Mike Parson is barred from seeking reelection by term limits.

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Photo credit: Getty Images

Missouri voters on Tuesday rejected an attempt by lawmakers to exempt child care facilities from paying property taxes, an incentive supporters hoped would help with the states day care shortage.

When the Associated Press called the race at 10:30 p.m., more than 54% of Missourians had voted against amending the Missouri Constitution to offer the property tax exemption. Its one of several attempts by lawmakers in recent years to take action on the states shortage of child care facilities.

This is just one incentive to try to make that easier for the facilities, state Sen. Travis Fitzwater said during a committee hearing on the bill last year.

According to the language on voters ballots, the exemption was intended to make child care more available, which would support the well-being of children, families, the workforce and society as a whole.

An investigation by The Independent and Muckrock found nearly one in five Missouri children lives in a child care desert, where there are more than three children under the age of six for every licensed child care slot. Some areas have more than 20 children per licensed seat or no daycare access at all.

Even in areas with plenty of licensed child care seats, staffing shortages mean facilities cant operate at full capacity. It can be difficult to hire for child care jobs, which paid, on average, less than $12 an hour in 2021.

And while COVID relief funding poured into Missouri to help with the shortage, it largely went to ZIP codes that werent child care deserts, The Independent and MuckRock found.

Its unclear how much money child care providers might have saved statewide if the property tax exemption had passed. Voters ballots said local governments were unsure what the fiscal impact might be to their budgets.

But the hope for supporters was that saving child care providers money might help with the shortage.

Its going to take an all-of-the-above approach to tackling the child care crisis, Heidi Geisbuhler Sutherland, a lobbyist for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said in a hearing last year.

When the legislation came before Missouri lawmakers, it had support from an array of child care and economic development organizations, including the chamber. Geisbuhler Sutherland said business owners have told the chamber that the lack of child care makes it difficult for companies to find workers.

Missouri lawmakers have considered an array of options to deal with the child care shortage. This spring, Gov. Mike Parson pushed a package of child care tax credits, but the legislation stalled in the Senate because of ultra-conservative opposition to welfare or the attempt to give away free child care.

Parson called for the tax credits in his State of the State speech in January, noting Missouri had enough licensed facilities to serve just 39% of children, and proposed a budget that increased child care subsidies by $51.7 million.

He said: Its time for change.

Nina Hampton of Columbia voted at American Legion Post 202 and opposed the child care property tax amendment.

Corporations are paying off the politicians, she said. The poor guy keeps paying and paying but the corporations get everything.

The Independents Rudi Keller contributed to this story.
MMH receives national recognition for its commitment to heart attack healthcare in the Permian Basin

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Midland Memorial Hospital announced its national recognition from the American Heart Association for its commitment to health care for heart attacks in the Permian Basin.

The recognition comes from the AHA (American Heart Association), which recognizes hospitals and organizations that have demonstrated commitment to quality care and improvement through several measured criteria- criteria that MMH has achieved and was recognized for.

The Midland Memorial Hospital was awarded the STEMI Receiving Center Gold Plus recognition- an award for its commitment to offering fast, research-based care to people experiencing a specific and more severe type of heart attack known as an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Abhinav Goyal, a professor in the Department of Cardiology at Emory School of Medicine and Chief Quality Officer for the Emory Heart and Vascular Center said that facilities that thrive in this type of care are crucial.

Effective and timely care is crucial for patients experiencing a STEMI heart attack. The American Heart Associations guidelines call for specific interventions for these patients both in-hospital and post-hospitalization, Goyal said.

The STEMI Receiving Center award was designed to showcase the hospitals that provide this 24/7 support for STEMI and award them for their treatment of patients with the most up-to-date research-based guidelines.

MMH President/Chief Executive Officer Stephen Bowerman stated that the program puts proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis so patients have the best possible chance of survival.

Not only did MMH receive the national recognition of the American Heart Associations Get With The Guidelines  Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Receiving Center Gold Plus, but also the American Heart Associations Get With The Guidelines  Coronary Artery Disease NSTEMI Gold recognition.

The NSTEMI Gold recognition is given to facilities that offer rapid, research-based care to people experiencing another specific type of heart attack known as a nonST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

MMH is dedicated to improving the quality of heart care and the American Heart Associations Get With The Guidelines program helps us achieve that goal, Bowerman said.

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Ogden Technical High School Principal Dana Nolan, center, talks with incoming fall students Darick Jones, 16, left, and James Fedor, 16, right, during a public open house event to celebrate the opening of Ogden Technical High School in Ogden on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

The old model for higher education, says Jim Taggart, president of Ogden-Weber Technical College, dictated four years of college and then an entry-level job to get experience.

"That's the old, outdated model," he said. "The new model is get a tech certificate, get experience, get hired at a high wage."

With that in mind, Ogden School District and Ogden-Weber Technical College, or OTECH, have partnered in the creation of a new high school on the tech college campus geared to high schoolers eyeing a vocational track after they finish 12th grade. Officials from the district and OTECH gathered Tuesday to unveil the new facility, called OTECH High School, saying it's the first time a public school program has been housed on the grounds of a technical college.

"Students will simultaneously earn professional certifications and complete their high school graduation requirements, all at no cost," said Luke Rasmussen, the Ogden School District superintendent.

That is, the new $13.97 million facility will offer classroom space where high school students can complete some of the basics needed to get their high school diplomas  like math, English and social studies  and provide proximity to OTECH facilities where they can pursue study of cosmetology, welding, construction, practical nursing and more to get a head start on professional development.

Ogden High School, Ben Lomond High School and Washington High School students have already been able to study at OTECH, but getting to the campus and juggling classes could be problematic given travel logistics between their home schools and the tech college.

Officials from Ogden School District and Ogden-Weber Technical College formally unveiled Ogden Technical High School on Tuesday. | Tim Vandenack, KSL.com

Lucy Blodgett, who will be a junior at Ogden High School, will take part in the program, pursuing cosmetology studies in hopes of becoming a hairstylist. Significantly, she'll also be able to maintain participation in traditional high school activities at Ogden High School, like the drill team.

"I can continue being a part of Ogden High School and participate in their events and activities," she said. "So it's like the best of both worlds."

Daniel Salazar, a Ben Lomond High School student, praised the teaching and learning model to be used at OTECH High School, personalized competency-based learning, which gives students leeway to progress at their own pace.

KC Strong, from left, Joshua Reeves and Teresa Taylor, all counselors at Ogden-Weber Technical College, test out the new chairs and table in a classroom during a public open house event to celebrate the opening of Ogden Technical High School in Ogden on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

"I'm not only able to access the tech college for free, I'm able to take classes that are catered to the way I like to learn," he said.

The new facility  open to Ogden School District high school students and even students from other districts  will start operating with the launch of the 2024-2025 Ogden School District school year on Aug. 16.

The first batch of students totals 115, including two from charter schools and two who were taking part in online programs. Dana Nolan, the OTECH High School principal, expects the figure to grow as time passes. The new 17,578-square-foot structure can accommodate 300 students.

"I think it's creating more opportunities for them," said Nolan. Students who graduate will get diplomas from their base schools  Ogden High School, Ben Lomond High School and Washington High School for Ogden School District students.

Rich Nye, formerly the superintendent of Ogden and Granite school districts and recently appointed to serve as senior adviser of education for Gov. Spencer Cox, was on hand for Tuesday's ceremony. Talk about the new high school started during his tenure as Ogden superintendent, and actual construction started last year.

Yahaira Carrillo uses a smart board with her mother, Rosa Carrillo, during a public open house event to celebrate the opening of Ogden Technical High School in Ogden on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

Though OTECH provides professional certificates, it doesn't offer two-year associate degrees. Still, Nolan thinks OTECH High School could also serve students headed to a traditional four-year university, depending on their planned area of study.

In related news, OTECH officials unveiled plans this week for a new building meant to accommodate the growing number of post-secondary students at the school. Utah lawmakers have appropriated some $84 million to build the Pathway Building, tentatively planned to measure around 110,000 feet and be completed in 2027 or 2028, according to OTECH spokeswoman Maria Milligan.

Most notably, the new building "will allow us to eliminate current program waiting lists and serve an additional 2,000 students per year," she said. The school now serves a little more than 6,600 students a year.

The Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Foundation announced Monday it would donate $1 million toward construction of the new building, and Milligan said the college seeks around $3 million in private donations in all.

The outside of Ogden Technical High School during a public open house event to celebrate the opening of Ogden Technical High School in Ogden on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News
Annabelle Chih / Bloomberg / Getty Images Super Micro Computer CEO Charles Liang at the Computex conference in Taipei, Taiwan, on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.





Key Takeaways

Super Micro Computer reported fiscal fourth-quarter earnings that missed analysts' estimates and announced a 10-for-1 stock split.

Revenue more than doubled year-over-year and came in slightly ahead of analysts' expectations, but the company's margins fell as costs rose, holding back profits.

Super Micro Computer CEO Charles Liang said the company has benefited from "record" demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure.







Super Micro Computer (SMCI) reported fiscal fourth-quarter earnings that missed analysts' estimates, sending shares lower in extended trading Tuesday. The company also announced a 10-for-1 stock split.

The company's revenue for the quarter more than doubled year-over-year to $5.31 billion and came in slightly ahead of analysts' expectations, but margins fell as costs rose, holding back profits. Net income of $353 million or $5.51 per share surged from the year prior, but missed analysts' projections.

Record Demand for New AI Infrastructure

Super Micro Computer CEO Charles Liang said the company has benefited from "record" demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure.

The CEO added the company could be "well positioned to become the largest IT infrastructure company, driven by our technology leadership including rack-scale DLC liquid cooling and business values of our new Datacenter Building Block Solutions."

Super Micro Computer said it expects revenue to be between $6 billion and $7 billion for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, while its full-year sales outlook was in the range of $26 billion and $30 billion, above analysts' projections.

The company also announced a 10-for-1 forward split, with split-adjusted trading expected to start on Oct. 1.

Super Micro Computer shares were down more than 12% at $540.02 in extended trading as of 6:50 p.m. ET Tuesday following the company's earnings release.



Read the original article on Investopedia.
Are Modesto sidewalk vendors regulated by police? Inspected by the county? How it works

With growing awareness surrounding restaurant and food truck inspections in Stanislaus County come questions about the practice of other businesses in the food service industry.

Modesto Bee reader Marc Etchebarne and several others asked a similar question: Who inspects the unpermitted food vendors that pop up after hours on the citys sidewalks?

Really, this question is a three-parter. Do sidewalk vendors in Modesto have permits to operate, are they regulated by the Modesto Police Department and are they inspected by the Stanislaus County Department of Environmental Resources?

Do sidewalk vendors have permits to operate in Modesto?

All food vendors should be working with the county (and city) to obtain proper permits, said Stanislaus County Department of Environmental Resources Director Rob Kostlivy.

The process to obtain a sidewalk vendor permit in Modesto includes going through the city, the Fire Department (if a heating element is used), an insurance company, the county and the state. Fees are also involved.

However, not all of the vendors you see are permitted to operate, Kostlivy said, adding that over the past few years, his department has noticed a significant uptick in the sheer volume of unpermitted vendors on the sidewalks and roadsides of Stanislaus Countyand really, across the state.

Do sidewalk vendors go through health inspections with Stanislaus County?

Sidewalk vendors are driven by necessity and a desire to share their culinary traditions, Kostlivy said.

They set up makeshift stands in high-traffic areas, offering an array of tempting street foods at a reduced price, he said. Despite the appeal of these tempting offerings, unauthorized sidewalk food vending poses significant health risks.

Issues with sidewalk vending, Kostlivy said, include:

lack of access to clean water for washing hands and utensils

inadequate restroom facilities

insufficient refrigeration for perishable foods

unsanitary preparation conditions

These issues can all contribute to the spread of foodborne illnesses.

Reports of food poisoning, gastrointestinal ailments and other illnesses associated with street food consumption highlight the serious public health concerns involved, Kostlivy said.

Our health inspectors face a challenging task, as the transient nature of unpermitted vending makes it difficult to monitor and enforce regulations consistently, he said. The vendors, often struggling with economic hardship, might be unaware of or unable to afford the necessary sanitary measures, further compounding the risks.

How does the Modesto Police Department regulate sidewalk vendors?

In terms of inspections and enforcement, the Police Department collaborates with Environmental Resources to ensure vendors are properly licensed, insured and certified, said spokeswoman Sharon Bear.

Violators of the citys and countys licensing, insurance and certification codes can face a range of consequences from citation to impoundment of equipment, Bear said. The consequences of violating the codes depend on the type of violation and frequency of occurrence.

Most vendors encountered by MPD are from out of town with no ties to the local community, originating from the Bay Area or Southern California, she said.

The complex issue of unpermitted sidewalk food vending in California highlights the need for more accessible pathways for vendors to operate legally, Kostlivy said, ensuring food safety while preserving the vibrant street food culture that so many cherish.

Our county team is currently looking at strategies to help our constituents fall into compliance, which will result in a healthier Stanislaus County, he said.
By Alexaner Tanas

CHISINAU (Reuters) - Election authorities in ex-Soviet Moldova on Wednesday threw out a registration application from a pro-Russian political bloc headed by a fugitive business magnate convicted of mass fraud.

The Central Election Committee said the application, examined three months before a presidential election, was rejected on technical grounds: the bloc bore the same name, Victorie (Victory), as one of four parties behind its formation.

WHY IT IS IMPORTANT

Moldovan politics is highly polarised ahead of pro-European President Maia Sandu's bid to secure a second term in office and a referendum to be held on the same day asking voters if they back the country's bid to join the European Union.

The Victory bloc was formed in April in Moscow and led by Ilan Shor, sentenced in absentia to 15 years in prison in connection with the 2014 disappearance of $1 billion from the Moldovan banking system.

Moldova's Constitutional Court last year banned a party bearing Shor's name, a fact also noted by the Election Commission. Sandu says Russia wants to subvert her government and accuses Shor of illegally financing his political allies.

Victory opposes the EU membership drive, but has yet to name a candidate to challenge Sandu in the election.

KEY QUOTES:

Victory bloc leader Shor: "We believe the ruling of the Election Commission is a crime and we will be making a case to the Appeal Chamber. Its explanations are comically absurd."

Victory bloc Executive Secretary Marina Tauber : "The Commission's Deputy Chairman, Pavel Postica, is, as usual, carrying out orders from above."

(Reporting by Alexander Tanas; Editing by Ron Popeski and Jonathan Oatis)
FREEHOLD - The Monmouth County Board of Commissioners is distancing themselves from one of their own after Deputy Director Ross F. Licitra was secretly recorded using expletives and insults to angrily berate a low-level employee at the local chapter of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The employee, who helped care for the animals at the Monmouth County SPCAs shelter in Eatontown, has since been fired. The scolding took place one day after a staff meeting where the employee had vehemently criticized a decision to euthanize a dog  named Shy Baby  at the shelter. The animal suffered from panic attacks and had begun to strike her head against its cage, drawing its own blood, according to the recording.

After the recording became public, Licitra took to the SPCAs Facebook page to apologize in a lengthy statement for his harsh language and adversarial approach.

He said he did not discipline the employee in question over his objection to the dogs euthanasia, but for the manner in which he conducted himself with his managers.

This individual consistently spoke down to and made very aggressive, bullying actions toward his two female supervisors, including slamming his fist down on the table to intimidate them, Licitra wrote in his July 29 post on the organizations Facebook page. I understand that the individuals heart is in the right place, but please understand that when someone aggressively questions, challenges, and tries to overturn the decision of medical experts, it causes turmoil for everyone here at the Monmouth County SPCA.

The terminated employee  who is never identified by his full name  concedes on the recording that he could have comported himself better at the staff meeting on animal care the previous day.

I will admit I did come off way too aggressively and it did get out of hand, I will admit that much, the employee explains. But all we wanted was people to have a discussion, because the way meetings work out, it just tends to never  it doesnt ever work out that we can.

In a capacity unrelated to his role as a county commissioner, Licitra serves as executive director of the Monmouth SPCA  which is not under the umbrella of county government. The employees conduct at the staff meeting had led to a separate meeting the next day between the employee, Licitra and an unidentified woman on the recording who appears to be another senior manager in the room.

What is not clear is who recorded the conversation or when it was recorded. The audio was uploaded to at least two different accounts on YouTube on July 24 and 25, where videos of the recording have been watched more than 20,000 times in the aggregate as of Tuesday. The video was also shared with local news media.

There was a discussion in regards to a dog that was being euthanized, Licitra began on the recording to the employee. I understand you had some tough words to say.

Yes, I do, replied the employee.

OK, tough guy, Licitra said. Lets hear em now.

All right, so I do believe that he begins.

Licitra immediately cuts him off: OK, let me just straighten you out right here. I don't give a sh what you believe. Okay? Do you understand me?

Yes, I do, the employee answers.

This organization is run by a set of directors that are hired by a board of trustees and appointed by me, Licitra explained. Do you think for one second you have any right whatsoever to question any director in this place or any decisions that are made out of this office? Do you think you have that right? Yes or no?

Yes, the employee replies.

Youre outta here. Youre done. You have no right, Licitra tells him.

Can I speak? the employee asks.

No! Licitra replies.

Please? the employee asks.

No! Licitra replies again.

Let me make a case for myself, the employee argues.

You have no right, Licitra tells him. I dont give a fu how long youve worked here. You understand me?  I could give a sh less. Youre lucky you got a job here. Youre lucky. You are a subpar employee (and) I fought to keep you here. And how dare you! How dare you challenge one of my directors or any decision thats made in this organization. Youre fired! Go pack your bags, youre outta here! You got it? Go!

In a joint public statement, Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone and Commissioners Susan M. Kiley, Dominick Nick DiRocco and Erik Anderson criticized Licitra for the way he spoke to the staffer.

We are aware of a recent incident involving one of our fellow Commissioners and an employee of the Monmouth County SPCA, the statement read. We believe that the manner in which the Commissioner spoke was inappropriate and we do not condone his actions. As the County Commissioner Board, we are committed to upholding a standard of professionalism and respect in all interactions involving County government with employees, residents and vendors. While this incident did not occur within County government or impact County operations in any way, we will continue to review facts as they become available.

On the recording, the tone of the conversation continues to escalate with the employee, who uses an expletive himself to say that he was among the employees at the shelter who actually cared about the dogs there, which results in embittered crosstalk among those in the office.

You dont think that we dont give a sh about these dogs? an enraged Licitra asks. You think we kill animals here?  You think thats what we do?

I do not, he replies.

Thats exactly what youre saying! Licitra tells him. Its disrespectful! We run the best animal welfare organization in the state of New Jersey! We have a 97-plus save rate! You think we make these decisions lightly? And you think for one second Im gonna allow anyone, including you or anyone across that street to ever question what this office does? Do you understand me?

The employee again asks if he can speak. Licitra tells him he cannot.

Ross F. Licitra, commissioner, welcomes guests as the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners host the Monmouth County September 11 Memorial Ceremony at Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook in Atlantic Highlands, NJ Monday, September 11, 2023.

The woman in the room tells Licitra she would like to speak to the employee and appears to make an attempt to de-escalate the verbal brawl. In a stern but softer tone, she explains to the employee that he has neither the academic qualifications nor professional experience to second guess the veterinary staff on whether an animal should be euthanized.

The conversation reveals that the employee has been with the SPCA for about two years, after a brief stint at Dogtopia  a dog daycare chain  and as an employee at a wholesale shopping club.

She reiterates that the Monmouth County SPCA has a 97% live release rate but becomes increasingly frustrated and raises her own voice after she quizzes him on whether he understands how the local chapter maintains such a success rate.

What goes into that number? she asks him.

Everyone working together to make that happen, he replies.

That is incorrect, she tells him. You dont even know that. So, your great experience is not cutting it right here. You do not have any letters after your name  not medical, not behavioral. Yes, you walk our dogs. You pet them, you feed them and thats great. Its important work. But you dont know anything about behavior.

I would like to, I would like to, the employee replies.

She admonishes him that he then needs to get more experience and not to be insubordinate to the professional staff in front of his co-workers, explaining that he has set the whole thing in motion for an entire group of people now to start disobeying instructions.

If I may, I believe I was doing the right thing, he replies. It may not have mattered this time, but I believe that the dogs need advocates.

Shy Baby needed to be euthanized because she cannot cope, the woman supervisor explained. Her name was Shy Baby from her owner. And I look at her behavior from those videos you guys took. And I see a dog thats terrified and not comfortable in her own skin.

A short time later, Licitra returned to the conversation: See, this is the problem Im having ... OK?  For my world, you have zero right to question anything. Youve earned nothing. Nothing. Youre nobody. You got it?

After Licitra repeats that the employee is fired, the commissioner tells him: When you grow up, because you certainly havent  OK?  and learn what real life is about, when you earn your own keep  OK?  thats when youll become a man. But not now, (you) self-appointed animal expert whos worked here for a year and a half, two years. OK? Youre lucky you had a job, cause I cant tell you how many times your bosses have recommended to me that I (get) rid of you. OK?  I advocated for you, right? Tens of times. Youre not a stellar employee, my brother. Welcome to the real world. Youre disposable. And, I will never allow anyone from across that street ever to question any of the directors of what we do here.

Licitra said in his statement of apology that the SPCA relies on the professional decisions of medical experts to care for its animals and called the decision to euthanize any animal a challenging one.

My passion for animal welfare and the prevention of cruelty to animals is a pillar of my own personal life mission, of which I am proud to have brought to the good work of the Monmouth County SPCA, Licitra said in the statement. We will continue to be a voice for animals that cant speak for themselves. With this explanation, and how much of an emotionally charged day it was  I apologize again for my disposition with the former employee during our meeting.

Contact Asbury Park Press reporter Erik Larsen at elarsen@gannettnj.com.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: NJ county commissioner caught on tape berating Monmouth SPCA employee
PETERSTOWN, WV (WVNS)  The fire at H.A.M. Sanitary Landfill that started back on the night of Friday, August 2, is now deemed under control.

Monroe County Commission releases statement about Monroe County landfill fire

Containing this fire at this Monroe County landfill was quite the task, however.

There were several organizations that helped to put out the blaze  around 20 in total, including first responders from as far as Nicholas County joining in to help.

Richard Miller, the 911 Director of Monroe County, told 59News about one of the ways they were able to extinguish the fire.

The company that owns the landfill brought in a specialized contractor out of Charleston that specializes in this type of service, and they used an excavator and water streams. He was looking for a needle in a haystack, so to speak. He went through every square inch of the debris pile, looking for hotspots and extinguishing them, said Miller.

After crews began their work to extinguish the fire Friday, they had to temporarily halt their efforts on Saturday, August 3 due to the problems with the water supply, drought conditions, and overall fatigue among the workers.

They were able to resume hours later and work around the clock with additional help from other departments in the region until 2 p.m. on Monday, August 5.

We had DEP on site, they have an emergency response team out of the homeland security office. They responded readily and quick. [The] EPA was there and they were looking at the air quality. We did not have anybody that was at life risk. So, we were looking at our environment and the stockpile was located in such a manner that all the runoff went back into their recovery ponds, explained Miller.

Tazewell Co. 911 Center becomes the third in Southwest VA to receive Accreditation status

The list of organizations involved in this fire suppression include:

Operational Staff of H.A.M. Sanitary Landfill, LLC.

Peterstown Volunteer Fire and Rescue

Ballard Volunteer Fire Department

Lindside Volunteer Fire Department

Union Volunteer Fire Department

Rich Creek (Virginia) Volunteer Fire Department

Oakdale Volunteer Fire Department

Matoaka Volunteer Fire Department

Talcott Volunteer Fire Department

Poplar Hill (Virginia) Volunteer Fire Department

City of Lewisburg Fire Department

Meadow Bridge Volunteer Fire Department

Celanese Corp and Talcott VFD for IR Drone Support

WV Department of Highways District 10 Princeton Division

West Virginia Department of Highways District 3 Parkersburg

West Virginia Division of Emergency Management for: Monroe  Richard Miller Mercer  Keith Gunnoe Nicholas  John McGinnis Region 5 Emergency Management Team

Giles County (Virginia) Emergency Management

West Virginia Homeland Security Response Team from DEP Group

Federal EPA team for air monitoring support

Red Sulphur Public Service District

Giles Public Service District

This is not the first time Miller has received a report of a fire in this landfill, but he said the most recent fire is unrelated to the other reported fires.

The cause of this fire is still under 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 WVNS.
Utility companies are spending billions building out transmission and distribution lines around the country, leading some to call for an independent monitor to protect customers. (Robert Zullo | States Newsroom)

The North Plains Connector Interregional Consortium announced Tuesday it will receive a $700 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to help reduce costs for customers and help build a transmission line that connects the eastern and western electric grids in Montana and North Dakota.

The utilities group includes NorthWestern Energy, Montana-Dakota Utilities, and others.

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester said the money comes out of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act he supported and his work to boost energy independence and strengthen Montanas energy grid.

Montanas families and small businesses deserve a safe and reliable power grid that keeps pace with our states growing needs  and the North Plains Connector project represents a vital investment in our power grid that will benefit our state for years to come, said Tester, a Montana Democrat, in a statement.

His office said the North Plains Connector representing a 415-mile transmission line is expected to improve grid resiliency, mitigate the impacts of extreme weather and accommodate the growing demand for electricity.

Gov. Greg Gianforte also praised the award from the Department of Energy. He thanked the Montana Department of Commerce for making the project a priority and said it will help upgrade transmission infrastructure to power homes, schools and businesses.

Access to a steady supply of affordable and reliable energy is critical for communities across Montana and the United States, said Gianforte, a Republican.

The Montana Department of Commerce applied for the grant on behalf of the North Plains Connector Interregional Innovation Consortium, according to a news release from ALLETE, one of the project developers.

The funds represent a portion of the estimated $3.6 billion cost of the project, the Governors Office said. His office said the North Plains Connector will link three regional control entities and, according to the DOE, create up to 3,800 megawatts of new capacity and increase transfer capacity.

Transfer capacity can boost supply and help stabilize the grid during extreme weather.

The news release from the Governors Office said the funds are made available from the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships Program through the DOE.

Testers office noted that he secured $26 million in October to help protect Montanas energy grid from wildfire and $14 million in September to protect the grid from fires and extreme weather, also through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

On its website, the North Plains Connector said it is in the development phase of the project and is preparing a proposed route to include in regulatory filings, which it expects to initiate in fall 2024 and to include rigorous environmental review pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act and state and local review.

The North Plains Connector project earlier said if it can get permits secured and construction underway in 2026, the line could be operational by 2031.
Gov. Wes Moore (D) is said to be "considering all options" following a ruling by a federal judge in Maryland that struck down portions of the Gun Safety Act of 2023. File photo by Bryan P. Sears

Marylands top elected official is considering all options following a ruling last week by a federal judge that struck down parts of a 2023 firearms law.

That law, passed in response to the U.S. Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Courts June 2022 decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen, set limits on where firearms could be legally carried. The bill was challenged in court the same day that it was signed into law by Gov. Wes Moore (D).

The landmark Bruen ruling by the nations highest court imposed a new standard for determining the constitutionality of firearms laws and regulations. The conservative court majority opined that all such decisions should be viewed through a historical lens, taking into account a historical analogue to laws in place in 1791.

The ruling ultimately overturned Marylands longstanding and controversial concealed carry laws, which required applicants to provide a good and substantial reason before being issued a permit. The policy effectively blocked the majority of Maryland residents who were otherwise legally permitted to purchase and own a firearm under state and federal law from receiving a concealed-carry permit.

U.S District Judge George L. Russell III handed down an opinion Friday that voided portions of Marylands Gun Safety Act of 2023 while leaving intact other provisions.

Russell said the state could not ban guns in bars, on private property without the property owners permission, or within 1,000 feet of a public demonstration. But he ruled that the state can prohibit firearms in schools, state parks, government buildings and more.

Moore initially declined to comment on the case on Monday.

In a statement issued Tuesday, a spokesperson for the governor applauded Russell for preserving prohibitions on carrying weapons in some public spaces.

The Gun Safety Act of 2023 demonstrates a common sense approach to gun safety and preventing harm. The Court did not disagree, Carter Elliott, a Moore spokesperson, said in a brief email.

Judge Russells ruling upheld the laws approach to restricting the carrying of firearms in museums, healthcare facilities, state parks and forests, mass transit facilities, school grounds, government buildings, stadiums, racetracks, amusement parks, and casinos.

The email went on to say that Moore has concerns about Russell striking down other parts of the law.

The Moore-Miller Administration respectfully disagrees with the Courts opinion that similar restrictions in the law for private buildings, public demonstrations and locations selling alcohol for onsite consumption should cease to exist, and is considering all options as the case continues through the judicial system that will prevent harm to Marylanders in these locations, Elliott wrote in the email.
Buildings are one of the top bird killers in the United States, with more than a billion birds dying after a building crash each year. About 60% of birds brought to wildlife rehabilitators or emergency rooms for animals die while in care of the facility either by succumbing to their injuries or euthanasia, according to a new study released in the Public Library of Science Journal on Wednesday.

There has been a widespread bird population decline in North America over the past half-century. The North American bird population is down by nearly 3 billion birds since 1970 according to a Cornell Lab study, making addressing hazards to bird ecosystems more urgent.

The injured birds are often brought to wildlife rehabilitation centers with head trauma and concussions. The bigger the bird, the more likely it was that it would recover and be released back into the wild. The rehabilitation centers examined in the study found that they received the greatest number of bird patients in the fall with the least number of admissions in the winter.

But even when the best care is provided, there is only a 40% chance of recovery for the injured birds.

Glass is a major culprit in bird collisions. Unlike humans, birds cannot view visual cues differentiating glass from the open air. Birds see the reflection off glass and go straight ahead into what they view as either open skies or a potential habitat, and birds see the reflection of nearby green space in windows as more vegetation. Buildings with curved surfaces rather than flat surfaces have been shown to have a greater number of bird collisions.

But there are ways that people can help prevent bird-building crashes.

"We cannot rely on only rehabilitation to fix this kind of problem," said Ar Kornreich, lead author of the study and researcher at Fordham University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. "The best medicine is absolutely prevention because some of these injuries just have really bad prognosis."

One at-home remedy is to put tape on windows at least 2 inches by 4 inches apart, so birds do not think they can fly through the window, said Kaitlyn Parkins, glass collisions program coordinator at the American Bird Conservancy. ABC BirdTape, for example, is a translucent tape that can be applied on the outside of the glass in stripes or squares to prevent bird collisions.

Installing bird screens or window decals are other ways to divert birds from hitting windows.

"Birds are in extremely steep population declines," said Parkins. "Birds are really important to humans. They are economically important, and they provide ecosystem services for us. And window collisions are contributing to that population decline. So it's really important that we all take steps to prevent collisions."

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
More than 18,000 flights delayed as Tropical Storm Debby remnants cause havoc along East Coast

Tropical Storm Debby is wreaking havoc along the East Coast after killing at least six people in Florida and Georgia.

Since Debby made landfall in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane on Monday, more than 18,000 flights in, out or around the US have been delayed, according to travel monitoring site, FlightAware. Another 5,000 fights have been canceled this week. New Yorks LaGuardia and New Jerseys Newark Liberty International were the worst-impacted airports on Wednesday afternoon.

Theres no answers, Ive been sitting around waiting, one passenger stuck at LaGuardia told Good Morning America.

Our flight was supposed to leave at 11:40 this morning, another passenger told the outlet. Were not leaving until 8:30 at night now.

Debby, which has weakened again to a tropical storm, has brought historic rainfall and catastrophic flooding across the southeast, the National Weather Service said. The storm was hovering off the South Carolina coast on Wednesday and will bring heavy rain to the region through Thursday.

Passengers wait in line at the Philadelphia International Airport on Monday as Tropical Storm Debby causes flight delays across the East Coast (AP)

The storm system will then move north, bringing heavy rain to much of the East Coast in the coming days, with remnants impacting as far north as Maine through Saturday.

Some 33,000 people were still without power in Florida on Wednesday. Outages peaked at over 100,000 on Monday after Debby made landfall.

The storm has killed at least six people since hitting Florida, including two children. The first reported deaths came Sunday night after 38-year-old Megan McKee and her 12-year-old daughter, Andie McKee Baldy, died when their car lost control and crashed into a guardrail in Dixie County, Florida amid heavy rain. A 14-year-old was also injured in the accident but his condition is unknown, WALB reports.

A 13-year-old in Levy County, Florida died when a tree blew onto his mobile home on Monday.

Firefighters help rescue a car stranded on a flooded street in Savannah, Georgia on Monday as Tropical Storm Debby inundated the region. More than 18,000 flights have been delayed along East Coast (AP)

Our thoughts and prayers are with this family as they deal with this tragedy, the Levy County Sheriffs Office said in a statement. We encourage everyone to use extreme caution as they begin to assess and clean up the damage. Downed powerlines and falling trees are among the many hazards.

A 19-year-old died that same day in Moultrie, Georgia after a tree fell on his home. A 64-year-old semi-truck driver also died early Monday when his truck lost control and rolled into a canal on Floridas Interstate 75. Within 15 minutes, the cab was completely submerged in the canal.

When we got there the trailer was sticking straight in the air and the bridge was holding it, Mike McArthur, from Stepps Towing Service, told Fox13.

The sixth death was reported early Tuesday. Brian Clough, 48, and his dog died while on a boat anchored 50 feet from the Gulfport, Florida coast as Debby made landfall, local outlet WTSP reports.

The storm hit Savannah, Georgia and the surrounding region through Monday and Tuesday.

Savannah firefighters relied on boats to rescue and evacuate residents in flooded neighborhoods, the Associated Press reports. The firefighters also waded through the waist-deep water to deliver bottled water and other supplies to impacted residents.

Four people paddle down a flooded street in Charleston, South Carolina as Tropical Storm Debby hit the region on Tuesday (AP)

Michael Jones, a Savannah resident, told the AP the floodwaters inundated his home and he was forced to spend Monday night floating on his kitchen table as he waited for rescue. Firefighters retrieved him early Tuesday.

It was hell all night, Jones said. It was a struggle, but God is good.

Debby hit the US during what is predicted to be an extremely active Atlantic season with up to 23 tropical storms and hurricanes this year, according to a peer-reviewed study from Colorado State University.

This spike is being driven by record-high ocean temperatures linked to the human-drive climate crisis. Last year was the hottest on record, and 2024 is expected to once again beat that record.
More than $4 million given to Swope Park for improvements

KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Department of the Interior announced $46.7 million in funding through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program for the redevelopment of parks across the country.

Swope Park in Kansas City is one of the recipients of the funding. The park received a $4.25 million investment to make improvements to the park.

First ever PickleCon to take place in Kansas City this weekend

This project will substantially renovate and improve the northwest part of Swope Park, which targets about 215 acres of the parks total of 1,805 acres.

Improvements include a neighborhood connection trail, a 10,000-square-foot playground, renovations to five of the shelters and a bandstand.

Missouri news: Headlines from St. Louis, Jefferson City and across the Show-Me State

The project will also add pedestrian and bicycle safety along access roads.

Click here to see what other parks across the United States are receiving an investment from the Department of the Interior

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds met with officials in Rock Rapids June 24, 2024, following major flooding in recent days. (Photo courtesy of Gov. Kim Reynolds' office)

More than 5,000 Iowa households have been approved for federal assistance following damages caused by recent tornados, flooding and storms, the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Wednesday.

According to a FEMA news release, more than $61 million in total has been approved for Iowans through FEMA assistance programs in the aftermath of extreme weather throughout Iowa in 2024. A majority of that funding  $56 million  has gone to Iowans through the Individual Assistance program, the federal program that provides funding for the costs of property destroyed by natural disasters, as well as for medical and legal expenses related to severe weather.

The remaining $5 million has gone to flood claims for Iowa policyholders through the FEMA National Flood Insurance Program.

Iowa has been affected by numerous severe weather systems in recent months that have triggered national assistance. President Joe Biden made a major disaster declaration in May for areas affected by tornados, followed by a June declaration for Iowa counties hit by historic flooding. The presidential disaster declarations opened up federal funding sources for Iowa homeowners, businesses and local governments through FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration, allowing for the federal government to provide assistance to people facing loss of property and major damages following the storms.

In addition to the Individual Assistance program, the State of Iowa is also working with the federal agency on the Disaster Recovery Temporary Housing Program, approved in July, to assist Iowans displaced from their homes because of severe weather. The program, administered by the state, provides temporary housing like mobile homes, travel trailers and recreational vehicles to people in disaster-affected areas for six months following the weather event. The state also submitted an application for a direct housing program, to be administered by FEMA, that would provide housing solutions for people up to 18 months after a natural disaster.

Gov. Kim Reynolds said in July that these housing initiatives are needed to help keep Iowans in their home communities when their property is destroyed or uninhabitable due to tornados and flooding. More than 5,000 homes were affected by recent severe weather patterns in Iowa, Reynolds said, and 2,000 homes were estimated to be destroyed.

As Iowans seek to recover from the recent natural disasters, federal funding is still available in counties under federal disaster declarations through the Individual Assistance program, according to FEMA. With a deadline of Aug. 23, applications for eligible households are open for people in Adair, Adams, Buena Vista, Cedar, Cherokee, Clarke, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Harrison, Humboldt, Jasper, Lyon, Mills, Monona, Montgomery, OBrien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Sioux, Story, Union and Woodbury counties.
US export restrictions on China's access to advanced chips and technologies have supercharged local efforts to replace foreign chip-making tools but bottlenecks remain, industry insiders and analysts said.

Top Chinese tool makers such as Naura Technology and Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment (AMEC) are leading a push for local chip foundries to "use first and fine-tune later" when it comes to domestic equipment.

There is even an unwritten rule in China's semiconductor wafer fabs that says locally-made tools should comprise at least 70 per cent of their production lines, according to multiple industry insiders.

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After Washington imposed restrictions on the export of advanced chip making technologies, China's leading chip makers began to shift their focus from chasing the leading edge to ramping up production capacity for legacy chips for cars and home appliances - and significant progress is being made.

Workers inspect a semiconductor wafer at TankeBlue Semiconductor in Beijing, Jan. 24, 2024. Photo: Xinhua alt=Workers inspect a semiconductor wafer at TankeBlue Semiconductor in Beijing, Jan. 24, 2024. Photo: Xinhua>

"The Chinese semiconductor tool sector has made great strides since the October 2022 US export control package," said Paul Triolo, senior vice-president for China and technology policy lead at Albright Stonebridge Group, a Washington-based consulting firm. "This is the result of greater vertical integration among tool makers, greater integration with front-end manufacturers, and much more collaboration across the entire industry supply chain."

Some industry veterans have become increasingly confident talking about self-sufficiency. Gerald Yin Zhiyao, chairman and CEO of Shanghai-listed AMEC, said China could be on the verge of reaching a basic level of self-sufficiency in chip-making tools this summer, something that seemed unlikely just a couple of years ago.

Yin said at a panel discussion last month that China's semiconductor supply chain can achieve self-sufficiency, despite gaps in "quality" and "reliability". That provides fresh evidence that US restrictions may have accelerated China's chip industry development.

Still, there is one field that remains a chokepoint for China: lithography, which is the critical technology that prints ultrafine circuit patterns onto wafers. These systems, however, are subject to the most stringent export restrictions. Dutch company ASML is the sole supplier of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems, required for leading edge chips, and is a major supplier of the less advanced deep ultraviolet (DUV) systems too.

Story continues

In 2023, only 1.2 per cent of lithography systems used in Chinese foundries were sourced locally, according to data shared by Li Hong, president of foundry China Resources Microelectronics, during an industry forum a year ago.

During the second quarter, ASML's shipments to mainland Chinese customers totalled 2.35 billion euros (US$2.5 billion), or nearly half of its worldwide systems sales, reflecting China's continued dependence on ASML tools in legacy nodes that are not under US sanctions.

"Chinese firms have purchased large amounts of DUV lithography gear from ASML, reflecting the fact that Chinese lithography leader SMEE remains behind ASML in reliably producing lithography gear that can be used at 28-nanometre and below at scale," Triolo said.

However, China is doubling down on efforts in lithography and a breakthrough remains possible, according to some experts.

This photo taken on April 29, 2024 shows an employee at a semiconductor factory in Huai'an, in eastern China's Jiangsu province. Photo: AFP alt=This photo taken on April 29, 2024 shows an employee at a semiconductor factory in Huai'an, in eastern China's Jiangsu province. Photo: AFP>

"I think several parties in China are quite capable of developing many of the individual modules and subsystems for DUV and EUV," said Rene Raaijmakers, a Dutch technology writer and author of ASML's Architects. China's development time frame could even be faster than ASML's on EUV "because they can use more advanced technology that is available in the market", Raaijmakers said.

Lithography is not the only bottleneck for China, though. The local supply ratios for ion implantation and inspection and metrology systems were 1.4 per cent and 2.4 per cent, respectively, according to Li of China Resources Microelectronics. The country's imports of ion implantation systems grew 20 per cent year on year to US$1.3 billion in 2023, according to data from China Customs.

Chinese wafer fabs rely on US companies KLA and Applied Materials and Japan's Hitachi for metrology systems, according to a research report from brokerage Sealand Securities. KLA holds around 50 per cent of the global market share in the inspection and metrology tool sector.

"The inspection and metrology sector has a low percentage of local supply, and domestic replacement happens basically in the low-end," said a semiconductor investor from the venture capital arm of Meituan, who requested anonymity.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
More than 60 homes damaged in coastal SC amid Tropical Storm Debby, SCEMD director says

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  More than 60 homes across three Lowcountry counties suffered damage as Tropical Storm Debby moved along the South Carolina coastline.

Debby began impacting the state late Sunday night with the heaviest rain and flooding happening throughout the day Tuesday.

Meteorologists say the slow-moving tropical storm is likely to make a second landfall somewhere between northern Charleston County and Georgetown County early Thursday morning. Additional rainfall, gusty winds, and flooding are anticipated.

Kim Stenson, the states emergency management director, said preliminary damage estimates from Berkeley, Charleston, and Colleton revealed 64 homes had damage with a majority in Colleton County. Stenson said one home with destroyed in Colleton and 15 others had major damage.

Berkeley, Colleton, and Horry counties have reported a total of six businesses with some level of damage. Totals could increase as Debby moves through the region.

Infrastructure damage right now is currently limited to road damage due to rain and floodwater, said Stenson. Damage assessments are being compiled.

Stenson urged people to stay away from flooded areas and to avoid taking on unnecessary risks.

He said one of the most effective ways the public can assist is by reporting any storm damage through the South Carolina Emergency Manager mobile app. Its not just about documenting losses, but its also helping us direct response and resources to wherever they might be needed, said Stenson. Your reports are vital to our recovery efforts.

Dorchester County officials asked that people report residential and business structural and flood damage from Tropical Storm Debby through an online form or by calling their call center at 843-832-0393. You should include specific information about the damage.

County officials said the information received will help damage assessment teams evaluate the extent of the storms impact and expedite the cleanup and recovery process.

North Charleston also asked residents to report any structural damage or water intrusion through an online reporting page. City inspectors will visit affected properties to document damage and conduct life safety inspections, the city said. Inspectors will approach homes to perform a thorough evaluation.

Charleston County will begin structural damage assessments on Thursday afternoon. Residents with damage can provide information online.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.
ITVs controversial husband-wife political interview has attracted more than 8,000 complaints to Ofcom, putting it second on the 2024 list.

Social media took off when Good Morning Britain host Ed Balls gave his wife Yvette Cooper, the Labour Home Secretary, a grilling on ITV earlier this week. Given that GB News has fallen foul of Ofcoms rules over the thorny issue of politicians interviewing politicians from the same party, the incident generated headlines. ITV has already said it stands by the decision and believes the interview was fair and impartial.

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An Ofcom spokesperson said: We are assessing the complaints against our broadcasting rules but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.

Balls, who used to be a Labour MP and Chancellor but lost his seat in 2015 and has since appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, was interviewing Cooper about the UK riots and the governing Labour Partys response. It drew accusations of a conflict of interest, given that the pair have been married for 26 years.

The situation is different to GB News in that Balls is no longer a politician. GB News mainly came under fire for shows such as Saturday Morning with Esther and Phil, when the husband-and-wife presenting duo were both still MPs. It is one of a number that has been rapped by Ofcom.

The incident is the second most complained about incident of 2024. That current title goes to an interview on the now-defunct TalkTV linear between firebrand presenter Julia Hartley-Brewer and Dr Mustafa Barghouti, the general secretary of the Palestinian National Initiative, which attracted around 17,000.

Following Mondays episode, an ITV spokesperson said: Following a weekend of rioting and national unrest, GMB featured a range of interviews and discussion around this national emergency on todays programme. [These] included James Cleverly, Shadow Home Secretary and Yvette Cooper, Home Secretary. We are satisfied that these interviews were balanced, fair and duly impartial.

The episode has also attracted ire because of the way in which Balls and co-host Kate Garraway interviewed another Labour MP, Zarah Sultana, who said the government should describe the riots as Islamophobic as well as racist, and challenged Balls on an article he had previously written about immigration.

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BOSTON (SHNS)  Lawmakers charged with hashing out the stalled economic development bill remained tight-lipped about the status of closed-door negotiations Wednesday, even as House Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka have publicly expressed a willingness to return for a formal session once a deal is reached.

Sen. Barry Finegold, the lead Senate negotiator on the conference committee, did not answer questions on whether the panel has met since the end of formal lawmaking last week and whether hes eyeing a certain timeline to strike a compromise.

I still remain hopeful that an economic development bill can get done this session, Finegold told the News Service.

Conferee Sen. Peter Durant said he has not been notified of any meetings since formal sessions ended. The halls of the State House were buzzing with people in the days leading up to July 31 end of formal sessions, but a vacation feel has overtaken the building since then.

Durant (R-Spencer) lamented lawmakers inability to reach an agreement on time for the very important economic development bill.

I just find it unconscionable that we have to wait until the last second to actually come to agreement on this, Durant said. It makes for bad governing.

The bill contains borrowing authorizations to support the life sciences and climate tech sectors. The Senate bill features a scaled-down, shorter-term reauthorization of the life sciences initiative compared to what the House and Gov. Maura Healey favored.

A spokesman for Senate Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues, another Senate conferee, offered a broad optimistic timeline for negotiations.

The Chair and fellow conferees are working diligently to resolve the remaining differences; we hope to have an agreement soon, Rodrigues spokesman Sean Fitzgerald said.

A spokesman for House Ways and Means Chairman Aaron Michlewitz, the Houses lead negotiator on the bill, also wouldnt say whether the panel has met in person since the end of formal sessions, or if negotiations are happening over email and text messages.

We continue to work towards resolution but because were in conference committee, I cant comment on specifics, Michlewitz spokesman Blake Webber said.

During the conference committees first convening on July 22, Michlewitz had said the goal was to finish negotiations by July 31 and get a compromise version to Healeys desk.

Conferee Rep. Jerald Parisella told the News Service Wednesday he was hopeful all parties can come to an agreement and send a bill to the governor for her signature.

Asked whether negotiations appeared close or far apart, Durant declined to offer specifics but said, There were some larger issues that needed to be taken care of.

But nothing that was insurmountable, at least in my opinion, he added.

Conferee Rep. David Muradian said conversations are ongoing with fellow negotiators and other lawmakers. The Grafton Republican said many members have voiced their frustrations over the botched economic development bill.

What I will say is its unbelievably frustrating to see that the House and Senate could not reach an agreement on such a consequential economic development bill, said Muradian, who declined to comment on the nature of negotiations. The fact that we could not come to a compromise is nothing short of a failure.

Healey spokesperson Jillian Fennimore revealed Monday that the governor had met with Mariano to discuss the trajectory of the economic development bill. Fennimore said Healey was also looking forward to discussing next steps with the Senate President as well.

As of Wednesday, that meeting had yet to happen.

We are in touch with her team and are working to schedule something soon, Fennimore said.

A spokesperson for Spilka indicated the meeting would happen next week.

The Senate President is currently representing Massachusetts at the NCSL conference in Kentucky, but has made it clear that she welcomes the opportunity to jump on a call with the Governor at any time, the spokesperson said, referring to the National Conference of State Legislatures. She looks forward to an in-person meeting early next week.

The MassBio trade group has repeatedly urged the Legislature to approve an economic development package that reauthorizes the life sciences initiative at $1 billion over the next decade.

MassBio and our membership are grateful to Governor Healey, Speaker Mariano, and Senate President Spilka for demonstrating effective leadership and a true commitment to exploring a special session to finalize this historic economic development bill, MassBio President Kendalle Burlin OConnell said in a statement Wednesday. Approving a Life Sciences Initiative for another full $1 billion over the next decade as part of a broader package is an appropriate recognition that the states competitiveness and economic well-being are at stake. It would be a powerful signal of the Commonwealths resolve to keep a leadership position that drives the local economy and better patient outcomes around the world.

Democrats couldnt agree on the economic development bill and many others despite meeting through the night on July 31. Theres been talk since about trying to revive the bill but it didnt surface during Mondays informal sessions. Both branches meet again on Thursday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
More of us than you: Thousands of anti-racism protesters turn out to counter far-right rallies in UK

Thousands of anti-racism protesters have taken to the streets across the United Kingdom to counter a spate of far-right rallies planned to target immigration centers, seeming to thwart what looked set to be another day of rioting.

After days of violence spurred by disinformation around a deadly stabbing attack, police had braced for another night of unrest on Wednesday. Far-right groups on social media had called for protests to target visa processing centers and immigration lawyers offices at more than 100 sites around the country at 8 p.m. local time (3 p.m. ET).

But by the early evening, thousands of counter-protesters had gathered at more than a dozen cities to guard the immigration centers and prevent them being targeted by the far right.

There are many, many more of us than you, crowds chanted at the anti-racism demonstrations across the country, bolstered by a markedly stronger police presence than over the weekend, and with virtually no sign of any far-right supporters.

Whether Wednesdays counter-protests represent a turning point is not yet clear, but fears of another night of unrest have abated for now. The fizzling out of the planned protests will come as a major relief for the new Labour government, and for communities that had prepared for the worst.

It may also be a sign that many have been deterred from taking to the streets, after previous far-right protests turned violent and hundreds of rioters were arrested over the weekend, with some already receiving prison sentences.

Businesses in Walthamstow had boarded up earlier Wednesday, in preparation for planned far-right protests. - Rob Picheta/CNN

In Walthamstow, east London, the immigration center was entirely boarded up, protected by a heavy police presence and surrounded by around three or four thousand counter-protesters.

We today have got such brilliant numbers in our community, an organizer shouted through a megaphone to a hastily organized crowd. We have shown them whose streets these really are. These are our streets.

Ahmed Hussain, 31, said he had come out to support the counter-protesters because when you dont, the fascists feel emboldened.

In London you would never see them rioting on the scale that they have outside London, Hussain told CNN. Theyre nowhere to be seen it shows that when everyone comes out to support, their numbers dwindle.

The worst of the past weeks violence was concentrated in the north of England. In Rotherham on Sunday, far-right rioters set fire to a hotel used to house asylum seekers as more than 200 people cowered inside. Large crowds of people shouting enough is enough and get em out were also seen clashing with police in several other cities.

In Sheffield, a city a few miles south of Rotherham, residents told CNN they had felt terrified by the outbreak of violence, which they said they felt had emboldened racist behavior.

I normally walk through this city center all the time, said Nadeem Akhtar, 18, who has lived in Sheffield his whole life. But now, recently, even my mums been saying to me, dont be going out so much, because you never know what could happen.

Akhtar had gathered with friends midday Wednesday in the city center to demonstrate against a planned far-right protest. Unlike last week, where protests across the country were allowed to boil over into racist violence, the Sheffield demonstration was overseen by a huge police presence separating the protesters and counter-protesters.

At least three right-wing demonstrators were arrested during altercations between the two groups. As one man was escorted away by police, he called out: I aint done nothing. Double standards.

Anti-immigration protesters have often accused police of double standards in responding to their demonstrations, claiming that they are not treated fairly and giving Keir Starmer, the prime minister, the nickname two-tier Keir.

CNN heard this nickname repeatedly in Sheffield and Rotherham. It has even been echoed by Elon Musk in a post on X, the website he owns. Musk claimed that civil war is inevitable in response to a post blaming the violent demonstrations on the effects of mass migration and open borders.

At the counter-protest in Sheffield later Wednesday evening, one of the speakers criticized Musks comments. The richest man in the world is stirring the pot for a race war, he said.

CNNs Louis Leeson, Lauren Kent, Muhammad Darwish and Nada Bashir contributed reporting.

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Donald Trump was once again thoroughly mocked by the Morning Joe crew on Wednesday, this time for suggesting that Biden will make a surprise DNC appearance to challenge Kamala Harris, the woman hes fully endorsed and whos already secured the 2024 Democratic nomination.

Generally we dont bother to read the former President Donald Trumps deranged posts on social media, host Mika Brzezinski prefaced. But this one is so unstable and so unhinged, its important that Americans maybe know just how imbalanced the Republican nominee is.

Indeed, Trump has suddenly been on defense for President Biden ever since he dropped out of the 2024 race, ironically claiming once again that the election was stolen. In his latest social media screed, Trump even suggested Biden crash the DNC in a WWE-like fashion to challenge Trump to another debate.

What are the chances that crooked Joe Biden, the worst president in the history of the US, whose presidency was unconstitutionally stolen from him by Kamabla, Barack Hussein Obama, Crazy Nancy Pelosi, Shifty Adam Schiff, Cryin Chuck Schumer and others on the lunatic left, crashes the Democratic National Convention and tries to take back the nomination, beginning with challenging me to another debate, Trump wrote. He feels that he made a historically tragic mistake by handing over the US presidency, a coup to the people in the world he most hates, and he wants it back now.

Obviously, the presidency was not stolen from Biden  he remains president. And, for Morning Joe panelist Charlie Sykes, the post was nothing more than gibbering nonsense.

I mean, can we just say it? This man is not well, Sykes said. So while were talking about the policies of the Democratic ticket, take a deep breath and recognize that the former president United States is having this cognitive mental breakdown in real time, in plain view.

Meanwhile, host Joe Scarborough noted that Trumps ranting post stood in stark contrast with the energy Harris and her new running mate Tim Walz are giving on stage at events.

Theres your split screen. Look them smiling on stage. Look at the fun. Look at the screaming crowds. It looks like winners, Scarborough said. And I will say, as a Republican  and you were a former Republican, I was a former Republican  Im not used to Democrats looking like winners.

He continued, Theyre usually in a crouched position. Theyre usually scared of their own shadow, the exception being Barack Obama. But again, the visuals yesterday, striking. And compare that with Donald Trumps lonely rants on on truth social.

You can watch the full discussion from Morning Joe in the video above.

The post Morning Joe Mocks Trump Theory That Biden Will Make Surprise DNC Challenge: Gibbering Nonsense | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
About a third of the Michigan House lawmakers seeking reelection faced a primary challenge in the election Tuesday. Most emerged unscathed.

But not all.

Upset Up North

State Rep. Neil Friske, R-Charlevoix, lost his primary to Republican Parker Fairbairn to represent the 107th House District that includes all of Charlevoix and Emmet counties along with parts of Cheboygan, Chippewa and Mackinac counties. Friske was arrested in June. It's unclear what criminal charges he might face.

A redacted case report obtained by the Free Press indicates police arrested Friske on potential criminal sexual conduct. He said he was framed  possibly by his primary opponent  without providing further explanation in a radio interview. Fairbairn has denied any involvement in Friske's arrest.

Democrat Jodi Decker faced no opposition in her party's primary for the 107th House District. Friske defeated Decker in the 2022 November election by over 13 percentage points. Friske lost his primary to Fairbairn by more than 35 percentage points with about 94% of the estimated vote in, according to results compiled by the Associated Press.

Howls in Howell

State Rep. Bob Bezotte, R-Howell, also lost his primary for the 50th House District to GOP challenger Jason Woolford who will face Democrat Austin Breuer in the Nov. 5 election. Woolford served in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked for a Christian non-profit sending Bibles and religious teaching resources around the world, according to his campaign website.

The district includes Howell and other communities in Livingston County. Bezotte is a retired Livingston County Sheriff and Vietnam veteran. He was first elected to the state House in 2020. Bezotte lost to Woolford by more than three points with 99% of the estimated vote in, according to results from the Associated Press.

Michigan 2024 Primary: Elissa Slotkin, Mike Rogers win nominations for Michigan's vacant US Senate seat

Fouts out

One notable challenger was unsuccessful in his bid to unseat an incumbent. Former Warren Mayor Jim Fouts lost the Democratic primary to state Rep. Mike McFall, D-Hazel Park in the newly reconfigured 14th House District that includes all of Center Line and Hazel Park, most of Madison Heights and part of Warren.

Fouts lost a protracted legal fight to seek another term as mayor of Michigan's third-largest city and went on to launch his bid for the state House. McFall is a freshman lawmaker who helped launch a new public transit caucus and has advocated for legislation to create a new transit fund, billed as one of the largest such investments in state history.

While Fouts is best known for his long tenure serving as Warren's mayor, he boasted his Oakland County credentials during his state House campaign, noting that his father served as city manager of Hazel Park.

McFall beat Fouts by more than 42 percentage points with 99% of the estimated vote in, according to results from the Associated Press.

Staff writers Paul Egan and Arpan Lobo contributed with prior reporting

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: Two Michigan House lawmakers lose primary
Mother admits to unlawful imprisonment of children from legal guardian

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Buffalo woman pleaded guilty Tuesday morning to taking her two biological children away from their legal guardian in April, the Erie County District Attorneys Office announced.

Jennie M. Johnson, 41, pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree unlawful imprisonment and one count of second-degree custodial interference.

On April 18, two children, a 10-year-old girl and an 8-year-old boy, were reported missing by their legal guardian.

Video released by Buffalo Police showed the children last seen leaving the area around 6:30 p.m. on Benzinger Street. Johnson unlawfully restrained them by luring them into a vehicle with her near Hertel Avenue before fleeing the area while knowingly violating an existing order of protection, the DAs Office said.

Johnson, along with another family member, drove the children to her house without permission from their legal guardian, according to officials. The children were located safely the next day.

Johnson faces a maximum of two years in jail when she is sentenced on Oct. 18.

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Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KRON)  Prosecutors filed murder charges on Tuesday against a 38-year-old mother, Korisa Lynn Woll, after her baby died suddenly in Santa Cruz County.

The woman brought her deceased 20-month old daughter to Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz on July 28, according to police. Hospital workers alerted the Santa Cruz Police Department about the babys suspicious death and officers went to Dominican to interview Woll.

The homicide victim is identified in court documents as Baby Z.

Investigators learned that the child had passed away while in the care of Ms. Woll at a residence on River Street, SCPD wrote.

Investigators also discovered that Woll took Baby Z to a known drug area and a residence. Woll neglected her  daughter and it directly led to her death, a police detective wrote in court documents.

Police have not release the babys suspected cause of death. A coroner will conduct an autopsy to determine Baby Zs official cause and manner of death.

San Jose father charged with Baby Phoenixs fentanyl OD death

The mother was booked into jail on July 29. Prosecutors filed an amended criminal complaint on Tuesday charging Woll with first-degree murder for the death of Baby Z. She is also charged with committing child abuse against her 4-year-old son, and destroying evidence.

A judge issued a domestic violence restraining order against the mother last week on behalf of the son and Wolls 16-year-old daughter.

Prosecutors wrote that Woll caused Baby Z to suffer physical pain and mental suffering, and placed her baby in an endangering situation likely to produce injury or death, court documents state.

Woll is scheduled to be arraigned in court on Wednesday morning to enter a plea. She is being held in jail without bail, inmate records show.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
The accident took place in Arcachon Bay off the southwest coast of France on Aug. 4

Getty A stock photo of a jet ski.

A mother in France has died after a jet ski she was riding reportedly collided with one being driven by her twin 16-year-old daughters.

On Sunday, Aug. 4, the 47-year-old woman was reportedly riding the jet ski with her 48-year-old partner in Arcachon Bay off the southwest coast of France when the accident occurred, per French newspapers Sud Ouest and The Connexion, and U.K. newspaper The Times.

According to The Times, the family, from the city of Angouleme in western France, had been under an instructor's supervision at the time of the incident.

Per The Connexion, early reports have suggested one of the riders may have lost control, but the cause of the collision is currently unknown.

THIBAUD MORITZ/AFP via Getty Images A photo of the Banc d'Arguin National Nature Reserve in the Bay of Arcachon in southwestern France.

Related: 2 Teenage Girls Killed After Jet Ski Collides with Boat on Illinois Lake

The outlet added that emergency services were called but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim's partner also sustained injuries in the crash, and the two girls have been "severely injured" but their "situation is not critical," according to the publication.

The father and daughters were taken to a hospital in Bordeaux, the newspaper added.

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In France, you have to be over 16 to drive a jet ski and must hold a boat license or be supervised by a qualified instructor, The Times reported.

Professional jet skier Sammy Maysonnave, who is also the president of the Arguin Jet Association, told Sud Ouest of the accident, "It is extremely unfortunate," in an article translated from French.

Per the outlet, it's now mandatory in the country to wear a wetsuit that's at least 2mm thick to help prevent injuries in the event of a fall.

"It's a good start," Maysonnave said, adding, "But helmets need to be made mandatory, that's the basics. I think it's also about educating users, perhaps with a special license, or an extra two or three hours of training."

Getty Jet ski tied by a rope to a modular floating plastic pontoon

The incident comes after two teens riding a jet ski were killed after they crashed into a boat at an Illinois lake on June 18.

The girls, aged 13 and 16, were riding the jet ski on Lake Marie near Antioch, Ill., when the accident happened, according to a social media post from the Lake County Sheriffs Office at the time.

They were traveling in a northerly direction near the channel to Grass Lake, just north of the Elime Road Peninsula. At the same time a Sea Ray Cabin Cruiser, being operated by a 55-year-old man of Antioch was traveling westbound in the same area, approaching the Gass Lake Channel, the post read.

Both girls were wearing life jackets but were knocked unconscious when they were thrown into the water upon impact, the post added.

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WARREN COUNTY, Ky. (WKRN)  One person died Wednesday morning after a motorcycle was involved in a crash outside of a Southern Kentucky school.

Shortly after 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 7, the Warren County Sheriffs Office announced on social media that deputies were at the scene of a serious collision in front of Warren East High School.

A light to everyone: Family mourns woman killed by alleged drunk driver on Gallatin Pike

Motorists were asked to expect delays while traffic was being diverted.

Then, at 9:10 a.m., officials provided an update, saying the motorcyclist had died from injuries sustained in the crash. Once all next-of-kin have been notified, authorities will release the motorcyclists identity.

Bicyclist killed in crash at West Meade intersection

Please remain patient and vigilant while the WCSO remains on scene to reconstruct the accident, the sheriffs office wrote.

No additional details have been released about this incident.

 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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Key Insights

Tenaga Nasional Berhad's estimated fair value is RM19.74 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Tenaga Nasional Berhad is estimated to be 31% undervalued based on current share price of RM13.64

Analyst price target for TENAGA is RM15.08 which is 24% below our fair value estimate

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Tenaga Nasional Berhad (KLSE:TENAGA) as an investment opportunity by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.

We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for Tenaga Nasional Berhad

Crunching The Numbers

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM6.26b RM6.21b RM5.39b RM6.16b RM6.15b RM6.20b RM6.31b RM6.45b RM6.62b RM6.81b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x7 Analyst x7 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ -0.23% Est @ 0.90% Est @ 1.70% Est @ 2.25% Est @ 2.64% Est @ 2.91% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 8.0% RM5.8k RM5.3k RM4.3k RM4.5k RM4.2k RM3.9k RM3.7k RM3.5k RM3.3k RM3.2k

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM42b

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 8.0%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2034  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM6.8b (1 + 3.6%)  (8.0% 3.6%) = RM158b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM158b ( 1 + 8.0%)10= RM73b

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 RM115b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM13.6, the company appears quite undervalued at a 31% discount to where the stock price trades currently. 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.

dcf

The 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 Tenaga Nasional Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for Tenaga Nasional Berhad

Strength

Debt is well covered by cash flow.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Interest payments on debt are not well covered.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Electric Utilities market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by earnings.

Annual revenue is expected to decline over the next 3 years.

Next Steps:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for 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. 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. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For Tenaga Nasional Berhad, we've compiled three additional items you should consider:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for Tenaga Nasional Berhad (1 is significant!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does TENAGA's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
I moved to South Korea to save money for a year. When I returned to the US, I hated it and ran back to Asia.

The author first moved to South Korea from the US in 2013. Krissi Driver

I moved from the US to South Korea to teach English and escape my poor financial situation.

I loved Korea and found my money went further there than it did in many places I'd lived in the US.

I went back to the US for a year, hated it, and returned to Asia, where I hope to stay.

When I graduated from college in May 2009, I left with a bachelor's degree in psychology, a spring in my step, and $60,000 in student loans.

Making the first few loan payments didn't hurt much. At the time, I was living in southwest Missouri, where I paid just $200 for my portion of the rent in a shared apartment.

But my low living expenses weren't exciting enough to keep me in the Ozarks. I was bored and knew I'd only be young once, so I quit my $12-an-hour job and moved to the Denver area to be with friends.

Moving to an area with a higher cost of living meant money got tight fast.

I was paying over $700 in rent, $100 to my parents for a car payment, $50 for insurance, and a whopping $610 in student loans to three separate companies each month  all on a salary of about $30,000 a year.

I took a sales job a year later that sent me to Portland, Oregon, where my living expenses skyrocketed even more. I split costs with roommates but had to put some of my loans into forbearance.

It was a short-term reprieve since my payments were paused, but my loans were still accruing interest. I was living paycheck to paycheck, racking up credit-card debt, and drowning in the depressive mist of the Pacific Northwest.

Then, as if by magic, I saw Facebook posts from an acquaintance who'd recently returned from teaching English in South Korea for a year.

I decided I wanted to try the same  even if only to escape my current circumstances.

Moving to South Korea gave me a disposable income, and I loved my life there

Daegu is the fourth-largest city in South Korea. Colin Croke Photography/Getty Images

After a bit of research, I realized I could teach English abroad with just my college degree, without additional special certifications or licensure.

After applications and interviews, an academy in Daegu, South Korea's fourth-largest city, offered me a job. I accepted without hesitation.

By February 2013, I'd gotten my visa and left the US to start what I thought would be one year abroad.

I fell in love with my teaching job. For the first time since leaving Missouri, I had more money than I needed to get by  even though I was technically making a little less an hour than I'd been making in the US when I left.

My employer paid for my housing, and getting around was no problem since public transit was accessible and incredibly affordable in South Korea. I especially loved the bus system, where rides often cost me less than $1.

I was also able to travel  Seoul was a short, cheap bus or train ride away, and I could fly to Jeju Island for a nice escape at a decent price, depending on the time of year.

I had to send money home every month to cover my loan payments and pay down credit-card debt, but I still managed to have a great time.

I stayed in South Korea for years  but my return to the US wasn't what I'd hoped

I enjoyed living in Korea so much that I extended my initial one-year teaching contract three times.

But after a few years at the same academy with the same material, I was ready to tap out. I'd started freelance writing on the side and wanted to pursue it full time.

I quit teaching in 2017 and moved to the Dallas area to live with my best friend from college and start my own business.

But it turned out that the US was even more expensive than it had been when I'd left just a few years before.

I didn't have a car, so I had to rely on my friend or ride-hailing services. I also still had a ton of debt, so I was doing everything I could to keep my head above water.

On top of that, I had no idea how to run a freelance business, so I panicked and took the first full-time job I could get doing content strategy and writing for an agency.

I hated my job, felt more isolated than ever, and once again found myself trying to live on a shoestring budget.

When Korea called again, I happily answered

About a year after coming back to the US, the author returned to her job at the same school in Daegu. Sanga Park/Getty Images

Almost a year to the day that I left Korea, I got an email from my previous school asking if I'd consider returning. At first, I laughed.

Taking a job I'd already had in a place I'd already lived felt like a massive step backward. But I hated being back in the US, and I'd loved my life in Korea.

I was the happiest I'd ever been in Korea, and I was a lot more financially comfortable. Even with my paid-for rent aside, my money went much further in the country  especially when it came to getting around or dining out.

I headed back to South Korea with a new work visa within six months of receiving that email. Landing at Incheon International Airport felt like coming home.

It's been six years since my return, and I feel my teaching clock winding down again. I'm ready to start a new career path and, as of late 2020, I've paid off my debts.

I still have no interest in returning to the US anytime soon. I may leave South Korea sometime next year, but I'd definitely like to stay in Asia.

My cost of living on this side of the world, the friends I've made, and the access I have to travel are worth more to me than I can express.

Read the original article on Business Insider
I moved to Thailand for graduate school. The free degree I earned isn't recognized in the US, but it inspired my side business.

Charissa Enget, 29, was granted a full-ride scholarship to earn a master's degree in Thailand.

She thought the campus was in Bangkok, but it was in Khampaeng Saen  a district two hours away.

After returning to the US, she found out the degree was not American-accredited, but it inspired her side business.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Charissa Enget, a content creator and cybersecurity architect who gained her graduate degree in Thailand. It has been edited for length and clarity.

My family moved around when I was a kid. We spent two years in China and a few more in Venezuela. Those experiences sparked my interest in living abroad again as an adult.

So, after I graduated with a mechanical engineering degree from Oklahoma State University in 2017 and was trying to decide where to go for a graduate degree, I thought it could be the perfect opportunity.

I was open to moving anywhere and also applied to schools in Spain and New Zealand, but Kasetsart University in Thailand was the first school to offer me a full ride for the two-year Master of Engineering program.

My mom freaked out about how far away I would be. She didn't come around until the day we went to the airport. Her anxiousness had gotten me a bit scared of going as well. But I had come up with a plan: if things went south, I would just ditch school and spend all the money I'd saved on a long vacation.

I thought my school was in the capital, but found out it was in the countryside

Enget with students in the Thai countryside. Charissa Enget

When university representatives picked me up at the airport and told me it would be a two-hour ride to the campus, I was confused.

"What do you mean it's a two-hour journey? It's only 20 minutes away," I said. They looked at each other and started laughing.

They replied, "That's the Bangkok campus. You're going through the Kamphaeng Saen campus!"

My whole stomach dropped. I had no idea what I was getting into. When I applied for the scholarship, I thought Bangkok was the only campus.

It turns out that the school has three other campuses. I had misunderstood the university website, probably because it's mostly in Thai, and had been reading the translated copy.

I felt lonely for the first few months

Since the students on campus didn't speak English, my professor was the only person I could talk to. Sometimes, I would go for days without speaking to anybody except my mom on the phone.

Depending on the class, the professors would either teach in Thai and translate it to English for me, or I just got taught one-on-one.

I thought about quitting a few times during the first couple of weeks but decided to give myself six months and try to learn the language. My plan was that if I still hated it, then I could quit.

I tried my hardest to learn Thai. I studied it for about two hours every day on an app called ThaiPod101. After four months, I understood my first spoken sentence. Six months later, I could have basic conversations.

I made some good Thai friends, and that made life way better. I got enveloped in Thai culture because I could talk to them. My Thai friends would invite me to their houses on the weekends to have dinner with their families. They accepted me with open arms.

Enget often joined her Thai friends for meals at their homes. Charissa Enget

The university experience was different from what I was used to

In my Thai university, they were taught engineering from the ground up. For example, they would learn how to program a scoreboard and make it work because they build everything to save on cost. So, I learned more in-depth about all these technologies.

My American university felt more innovative. As an undergraduate in the US, I had to think creatively to solve engineering problems. In Thailand, they preferred that I follow procedures and instruction manuals.

The cost of living was also much lower. I didn't cook at all for two years, as every meal costs around $1.50.

I lived in an off-campus dorm, and it was fully furnished with a TV, refrigerator, bathroom, and balcony. The cost was covered by my scholarship.

Enget at her graduation ceremony. Charissa Enget

Without a scholarship, the graduate program would have still been more affordable than pursuing a graduate degree in the US.

According to Kasetsart University's website, master's students pay around $1,200 to $1,500 a year for tuition and an additional international student fee of $512 per semester.

In comparison, tuition for a similar program at Oklahoma State University for out-of-state students, excluding other fees, is $17,890 a year.

I've moved back to the US but travel back to Thailand often

After completing my graduate degree in 2020, I returned to the US. Although my master's degree was not American-accredited, it did make for good conversations during interviews. I now work as a cybersecurity architect.

I've also started a side business, where I run group tours of around 20 people to Thailand once or twice a year. We visit places like Chiang Mai and Bangkok to see waterfalls and hill tribes and just experience Thailand together. I charge around $1,800 to $2,000 per person, depending on the destination.

Enget now hosts group tours for her social media followers. Charissa Enget

Now, I live in Houston, and in my two years there, I've only met two of my neighbors.

But in Thailand, people were always outside everywhere I walked, and they talked and got to know me.

I liked that about living in Thailand  you're never lonely there.

Do you have a story about choosing to attend college outside the US that you want to share? Get in touch with the reporter, Erin: eliam@businessinsider.com .

Read the original article on Business Insider
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Shelby County School board members are speaking out after some parents complained they werent getting important communication from the district.

On Monday, 12 schools dismissed students early because of problems with their air conditioning. Those issues were fixed in nine of those schools by Tuesday, but with high temperatures set for this week, some parents still have concerns.

Yesterday, we early released 12 schools for heating conditions in a building as we prioritize the safety of our most precious cargo, MSCS Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins said.

With no media present, Dr. Feagins held a media briefing in the form of a video statement to address schools and problems with air conditioning.

HVAC issues cause schools to dismiss early for a second day

While we are grateful, the board and I, as we work towards solutions where we stop talking about hopes and dreams and were able to see actions, Dr. Feagins said.

Actions the community is still waiting to see.

Over the past 24 hours, WREG has reached out to the district several times but has yet to hear back on whats being done to address the aging infrastructure.

Earlier on Tuesday, WREG reported on parents being upset with their children being dismissed from school early in the first two days of the school year.

They had time to make sure these things were straightened out before the school year started, one parent said. So, they need to prioritize things with high importance, especially the air.

So, WREG turned to school board members about the communication breakdown.

What you did witness the district doing and Dr. Feagins was pulling our resources together to bring in people to help us get HVAC problems addressed overnight, said MSCS Board Chair Dr. Althea Greene.

Dr. Greene said she predicts smooth sailing for the rest of the week.

ORIGINAL STORY: Schools dismissed early due to air conditioning problems

But another board member is urging patience among the community.

We give the county commission a long list of deferred maintenance every year and the county commission dont have money to satisfy us in deferred maintenance, Stephanie Love said.

Love told WREG she received a list of schools with HVAC issues on Sunday night.

She added that she believes that parents of students who attend those schools should have been notified immediately and hopes that will happen in the future.

Going forward, the board could be asking the state for more funding to address the aging infrastructure problems.

Steve Cohen brought money in for us to get a new bridge, Dr. Greene said. Hey, I need somebody to bring money in so we can get new heating and air units for our schools.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
How much damage did Hurricane Debby leave in Manatee County? Officials give early estimate

Nearly $13 million in damage has already been reported in Manatee County as a result of Tropical Storm Debby, and the figure is still expected to rise as authorities continue to assess damage throughout the community.

Manatee County endured heavy rain, wind, surge, and added strain from a water release from Lake Manatee during Tropical Storm Debby, but sustained at least $12.5 million in residential damage and $60,000 in commercial damage, according to a press release issued Wednesday afternoon. Figures are preliminary and are expected to grow as assessment efforts continue.

In case you missed it: Residents flooded out by Manatee County water release in response to Debby

The county is working to establish emergency supply points of distribution to support residents in areas hit hard by Tropical Storm Debby.

A distribution point operated by the Florida National Guard has opened at the Myakka Community Center, located at 10060 Wauchula Road, Myakka City. It's stocked with tarps, water, bleach, and Meals Ready to Eat.

Officials are working to establish other points of distribution and will announce locations on social media as they are finalized. Residents are invited to participate in a survey for any unmet needs at mymanatee.org/debbyhelp.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Manatee reports $12.5 million in residential damage post Debby
SOMERSET COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ)  A man who was wanted in multiple states was arrested on Tuesday in Somerset County.

According to Somerset County District Attorney, Molly Metzgar, Shaun Deandre Hall was located in a Jefferson Township home on Aug. 6 at which time they sent officers to arrest him.

Somerset County District Attorney Detectives, United States Marshals Service members of the Pennsylvania State Police, Somerset County PA Sheriffs Office and the Pennsylvania Game Commission- Southwest Region located Hall in a home and attempted to take him into custody.

Huntingdon man charged in high-speed chase with stolen motorcycle

Hall then allegedly fled on foot into a wooded area. Officers chased him and eventually, he was taken into custody. Upon being arrested officers said they found a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine on him.

Photos provided by the Somerset County District Attorney Molly Metzgar

Photos provided by the Somerset County District Attorney Molly Metzgar

He was taken to the Somerset County Jail for his warrants.

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Additional charges are pending against 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 WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
Multiple motorists rescued from flooded roadways in New Jersey and New York

Multiple motorists stranded on flooded roadways in New York and New Jersey had to be rescued from their submerged vehicles Tuesday night as some parts of the region got six inches of rain in about three hours, according to officials.

The super-soaker storm brought torrential rain to New York City, Long Island, New Jersey and Connecticut, dumping two to three inches an hour, meteorologist Bill Goodman of the National Weather Service office in Upton, New York, told ABC News on Wednesday morning.

"Between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. is when it was really the worst. That's rush hour," Goodman said of Tuesday night's storm.

He said some parts of New York City, including northern Manhattan and the Bronx, recorded up to 6 inches of rain Tuesday evening.

PHOTO: Six people were stranded in their cars by flash flooding on the Cross Island Parkway in New York City on Aug. 6, 2024, according to New York City Emergency Management officials. (New York City Emergency Management)

New York City Emergency Management officials said multiple motorists were stranded on flooded roadways and had to be pulled from their vehicles by rescue crews.

Six people were rescued from their vehicles when they got stuck in flood waters on the Cross Island Parkway in New York City, emergency management officials said.

MORE: Tropical Storm Debby live updates: Debby churns off South Carolina coast ahead of 2nd landfall

Flood water also inundated the Henry Hudson Parkway in the Bronx borough of New York City, where firefighters had to rescue a stranded driver, according to the New York City Fire Department. At the height of the storm, the highway was briefly closed at West 232nd Street in the Bronx, officials said.

On Long Island, police in the Nassau County town of Glen Cove had to rescue two people from a BMW that got stuck in water that authorities said was too high to drive through safely. Port Washington, about 10 miles from Glen Cove, recorded 4.66 inches of rain Tuesday evening, the most of any Long Island city, according to the NWS.

Elsewhere in the region, flooding on the Palisades Parkway in the Bergen County, New Jersey, city of Englewood Cliffs, caused commuter chaos, officials said. The Teterboro Airport in Bergen County recorded nearly four inches of rain Tuesday night, according to the NWS.

One of the hardest areas of New Jersey was Hackensack, which received nearly 3 inches of rain, according to the NWS.

MORE: 'You can't panic,' boater says of how he survived Tropical Storm Debby while adrift in the Gulf

In a Facebook post Tuesday night, the Hackensack Fire Department said multiple trees in the city were down and numerous streets were flooded. In a warning to motorists, the fire department said, "It continues to monsoon, please do not drive into flooded areas."

"Multiple people stuck, multiple rescues being made by Hackensack fire members," the Hackensack Fire Department said in the post. "If you're in an area and cannot go any further, park your car somewhere dry and wait out the storm.... Turn around, don't drown."

PHOTO: Hurricane Debby - Additional rainfall forecast through Saturday (ABC News)

There were no reports of injuries in the New York City metropolitan area.

The storm system soaked the Northeast after moving in from the eastern Great Lakes, prompting 163 damaging storm reports, including numerous downed trees and flash flooding, from Michigan to New York.

Goodman said the remnants of Hurricane Debby are forecast to reach the Northeast on Friday, bringing more rain to the region. Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane Monday morning in the Big Bend area of the Florida Panhandle and produced heavy amounts of rainfall as it continued as a tropical storm into Georgia and the Carolinas.

PHOTO: Hurricane Debby - Forecast through Saturday (ABC News)

The slow-moving Debby dumped more than 17 inches of rain in Summerville, South Carolina, and at least 6 inches in Cary, North Carolina. Another 6 to 10 inches of rain is forecast for South Carolina and North Carolina on Wednesday and Thursday.

On Thursday, Debby is expected to make its second landfall in South Carolina and then move north into inland North Carolina and Virginia Thursday night.

Multiple motorists rescued from flooded roadways in New Jersey and New York originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
A man who police say occasionally charged prominent Detroit neurosurgeon Devon Hoover for sexual services is charged with killing the doctor in April 2023 before stealing over $95,000 from him in cash and valuables.

While being investigated in Hoover's slaying, Desmond Burks, 34, of Detroit was charged in a separate killing that happened nearly a year later during a road rage incident involving a Dearborn man.

Burks, 34, was charged with murder in Hoover's killing, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced Wednesday. The lengthy investigation was described as a massive undertaking, spanning five states and three countries, and involving numerous terabytes of data.

Detroit Police Chief James White, joined by Worthy at a news conference, thanked the officers who worked the Hoover case, and also thanked family and loved ones of Hoover for their trust and patience.

Detroit neurosurgeon Dr. Devon Hoover was found dead in his Boston-Edison home on April 23, 2023.

The loss of Dr. Hoover remains a tragedy that has left a void in our community, White said.

Hoover's family said in a statement that they felt relief after the charges against Burks  "a step towards justice," as they described it were announced. They feel grateful for police, too, they said. But mostly, "we feel the loss of Devon once again," the Hoover family wrote.

"He was an exceptional man  a doctor, brother, son, uncle, and friend who invested in our lives with unwavering kindness and generosity. Although nothing will ever reverse our loss, we are grateful that someone will be held accountable for Devons death. We continue to rest in faith that Gods goodness will prevail over this tragedy."

And his sisters previously wrote in an email to the Free Press: "Nothing will ever compensate us for our loss.  If we could speak to the perpetrators of this horrendous crime ... we would simply say, 'Why? Please tell us: What have you gained?'"

Burks is accused of shooting Hoover twice in the back of the head. Hoover was found April 23, 2023, facedown, wearing only socks, wrapped in a blood-soaked carpet in the crawl space of his Boston-Edison Historic District mansion.

His family had called police requesting a welfare check when he did not show up to visit his dying mother in Indiana.

When Hoovers body was discovered, his cell phone, wallet, money, credit cards and designer watches  the Cartier Ballon Bleu Watch purchased for $6,625 in 2020 and the Cartier Pasha Watch, purchased for $7,323 the day before he was killed  were missing.

Police using search warrants later found both watches in homes associated with Burks.

Almost immediately after the killing, Burks allegedly made fraudulent transactions with Hoovers credit cards. Burks is accused of stealing over $30,000 in CashApp and bank fraud.

Hoover and Burks had been intimate  about 4,000 text messages were exchanged between the two, Worthy said.

Burks was charged with first-degree, premeditated murder, felony murder, larceny of $20,000, using a computer to commit a crime, felon in possession of a firearm and three counts of felony firearm.

Burks was previously charged with second-degree murder in an unrelated case after he allegedly punched Reda Saleh, 67, of Dearborn during a road range incident on April 17 at West Chicago Street and Greenfield Road in Detroit and left him lying on the ground, unresponsive.

Worthy said that at the time of Burks arrest in Salehs death, the case against Burks in Hoovers death was nowhere near ready for him to be charged in the neurosurgeon's killing.

It took investigators over a year to build a case in the Hoover killing for Worthy to feel she could prosecute the case against Burks beyond a reasonable doubt.

We take our time. On cases that we can charge quickly, we charge quickly. In cases that we cant, it doesnt matter to me what people say  were going to take our time to make sure that we get it right, Worthy said.

Burks is set to be arraigned Thursday in 36th District Court in the Hoover case. His lawyer in the Saleh case requested a competency hearing, which will take place next month.

More: Mystery looms around death of beloved Detroit neurosurgeon

Worthy: Additional evidence points to Burks

The investigative report against Burks in Hoovers homicide is 181 pages, Worthy said, and she explained why the case has been both complex and lengthy.

The investigation involved five states: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Texas and California; and three countries: the U.S., England and France.

Over 71 law enforcement officers were involved in the investigation that amassed several terabytes of data, some tasked with reviewing hundreds of hours of video footage, interviewing over 87 witnesses, extracting data from 57 cell phones, collecting over 300 pieces of evidence and executing over 134 search warrants.

The day before Hoovers body was found, officers had gone to his house after a report elsewhere of a white Range Rover blocking a driveway on Coyle Street.

Blood was observed in the Range Rover, which was registered to Hoover. Officers at his home saw the driveway gate wide open but could not contact anyone inside, Worthy said. On the date of Hoovers killing, Burks was seen on surveillance footage parking the neurosurgeons Range Rover on Coyle Street.

In addition to Hoovers stolen Cartier watches found by police at addresses associated with Burks, cell phone data and other evidence places Hoovers cell phone in the same location of Burks.

The day Hoover was killed, his phone traveled from his home on W. Boston Boulevard to Burks home on Sussex Street. The phone traveled again to Hoovers home and back to Sussex before traveling to Fairlane Mall in Dearborn, Worthy said.

Andrea Sahouri covers criminal justice for the Detroit Free Press. She can be contacted at asahouri@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Murder charges filed in Detroit neurosurgeon Devon Hoover's death
GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)  Georgetown County deputies say a man accused of fatally shooting his co-worker surrendered Tuesday night.

Ethan ONeil Brown, 20, of Nesmith, was charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. He is in custody at the Georgetown County Sheriffs Office awaiting a bond hearing.

Brown allegedly shot and killed his co-worker after an argument at the SafeRack manufacturing facility near Andrews. The victim was treated on the scene before being taken to a local hospital, where they died.

The coroners office has not yet identified the deceased.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
The Swedish stock market, like many global markets, has faced headwinds recently due to economic uncertainties and a cooling labor market. Despite these challenges, opportunities still exist for discerning investors willing to explore beyond the well-trodden paths. In this article, we will highlight three lesser-known Swedish stocks that exhibit strong potential based on their innovative approaches and resilience in the current economic climate.

Top 10 Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals In Sweden

Name Debt To Equity Revenue Growth Earnings Growth Health Rating Bahnhof NA 9.47% 15.07%  Softronic NA 3.58% 7.41%  Duni 29.33% 10.78% 22.98%  AB Traction NA 5.38% 5.19%  Firefly NA 15.31% 29.94%  Creades NA -28.54% -27.09%  Linc NA 56.01% 0.54%  Rederiaktiebolaget Gotland NA -14.29% 18.06%  AQ Group 7.30% 14.89% 22.26%  Karnell Group 44.29% 22.04% 39.45% 

Click here to see the full list of 51 stocks from our Swedish Undiscovered Gems With Strong Fundamentals screener.

Here we highlight a subset of our preferred stocks from the screener.

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: CTT Systems AB (publ) designs, manufactures, and sells humidity control systems for aircraft across Sweden, Denmark, France, the United States, and internationally with a market cap of SEK3.42 billion.

Operations: CTT Systems AB (publ) generates revenue primarily from the Aerospace & Defense segment, amounting to SEK317.70 million. The companys net profit margin stands at 12.5%.

CTT Systems, a notable player in the Aerospace & Defense sector, has seen earnings grow 6.5% annually over the past five years. The companys debt to equity ratio slightly increased from 16.8 to 17.1 over the same period, but it maintains more cash than total debt and trades at 45.5% below estimated fair value. Recent Q2 results showed sales of SEK 83 million and net income of SEK 24 million, with promising future orders for humidifiers on A350s and Boeing 777Xs from multiple airlines.

OM:CTT Debt to Equity as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Scandi Standard AB (publ) produces and sells chilled, frozen, and ready-to-eat chicken products across various countries including Sweden, Norway, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, Germany, the United Kingdom, and internationally with a market cap of SEK5.28 billion.

Operations: Scandi Standard AB (publ) generates revenue primarily from its Ready-To-Cook segment (SEK9.70 billion) and its Ready-To-Eat segment (SEK2.61 billion).

Story continues

Scandi Standard, a notable player in the food industry, currently trades at 50.1% below its estimated fair value. The company has reduced its net debt to equity ratio from 121.8% to 61.4% over five years but still holds a high ratio of 59.7%. Interest payments are well-covered by EBIT with a coverage ratio of 3.5x, and earnings are forecasted to grow annually by 20.39%. Recent earnings showed SEK 6,510 million in sales for six months ending June and SEK 141 million net income compared to SEK 127 million last year.

OM:SCST Debt to Equity as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Teqnion AB (publ) is a diversified industrial company operating in industry, growth, and niche business areas with a market cap of SEK 3.22 billion.

Operations: Teqnion AB (publ) generates revenue through its diversified operations across industry, growth, and niche business areas. The company reported a market cap of SEK 3.22 billion.

Teqnion, a promising small cap in Sweden, reported SEK 399.7 million in sales for Q2 2024, up from SEK 383.9 million last year. Net income for the same period was SEK 34.5 million compared to SEK 33 million previously. Over the past year, earnings grew by 2.6%, outpacing the Trade Distributors industrys growth of 1.3%. Debt to equity ratio improved from 37.8% to 30.9% over five years, and it's trading at nearly 40% below fair value estimates.

OM:TEQ Debt to Equity as at Aug 2024

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Companies discussed in this article include OM:CTT OM:SCST and OM:TEQ.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Tropical Storm Debby doused the Grand Strand with heavy rains and winds Tuesday, causing flash flooding in some areas.

More rain is expected Wednesday, along with possible tornadoes and storm surge through Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Some areas received 2 to 5 inches of rainfall Tuesday and an additional 4 to 9 inches is possible Wednesday into Thursday, according to NWS.

Residents took to social media Tuesday to report the impact of Debby.

Homeowners in Royal Estates in Little River posted photos of flooded yards, including one yard that had water deep enough for a kayak.

North Myrtle Beach and the Cherry Grove area have seen flooding. People reported backyards being flooded from the rainfall, as well as at the bottom of homes.

Some areas have yet to see flooding. An early morning shot Wednesday of Main Street in North Myrtle Beach showed no water after Tuesdays rains.

Residents on Facebook groups have been communicating with each other on where water and flooding has taken place.

Conway saw flooding Tuesday in several areas. Conway police have urged residents to be careful of flooded streets and not to try to drive through water.

Video was taken of the flash flooding at Main and Boundary streets Tuesday that resulted in a vehicle being stuck in the flood waters and a person being rescued.

Murrells Inlet saw flooding and damage in several areas. Photos showed flooding in the parking lot of the former Inlet Mall that reached the sign.

It also appears that boaters are having difficulty on the waters Wednesday morning. A boat can be seen floating adrift near the Veterans Pier in Murrells Inlet.

Surfers have taken advantage of the waves that the storm has caused, taking to the ocean.

Other residents have also tried to make the best of the storm and flooding by walking on the beach and taking to the streets.
DUPAGE COUNTY, Ill.  The buzzing of the Brood X cicadas may have quieted in northern Illinois but some are still dealing with lingering effects. The cicadas, which emerge every 17 years, may be tied to a number of bug bites reported in suburban Chicago.

More specifically, the bites are believed to be caused by Pyemotes mites, which thrive when cicada broods emerge.

In west suburban Elmhurst, Lauren Cullens doctor told her theyre seeing about 10 to 15 people daily with similar bites in recent days.

We were kind of concerned because they were kind of large, she said.

University of Illinois horticulture educator Ken Johnson said a similar situation happened in 2007, the last time the 17-year cicadas emerged. According to a University of Illinois report examining the last outbreak, the rash of bites is associated with the 17-year cicada contributing to an increase in the mite population.

Johnson said the cicadas lay their eggs  which the mites love to feast on  in tree branches, which provide the covered environment needed for the mites to multiply.



You may be exposed to these mite bites while doing any activity, like hiking or sitting, under trees that have been infested, including oak trees and anywhere cicada egg nests were made, Paula Shrewsbury with the Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland explains. The mites may also be caught in the wind and land on you.

If youre concerned, about these, try to avoid areas that may potentially have these mites, Johnson said. If youve got areas that have a lot of evidence of cicada egg-laying, that may be an area to avoid. Cover up as much of your skin as possible. Typically, people most frequently have these kind of on their neck, shoulder area.

If you have been in an area where the mites may be, Shrewsbury recommends bathing as soon as possible. Bug sprays used to prevent mosquitos and ticks have not been shown to prevent mite bites.

The symptoms  which can set in about 10 to 16 hours after exposure to the mites  include itching, rash and bumps or welts. The bites can be uncomfortable and cause itching, but they usually clear up on their own and dont require medical attention.

You can use a product that provides relief from itching if you cant resist the scratching, Shrewsbury says.

Once the cicada eggs have hatched, a process that takes between six to 10 weeks, the mites should disappear as well. For those in the Chicago area, that could take until the end of August.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
CHICAGO (WGN)  The buzzing of the Brood X cicadas may have quieted in northern Illinois but some are still dealing with lingering effects.

The cicadas, which emerge every 17 years, may be tied to a number of bug bites reported in suburban Chicago.

Scientists collecting sex-crazed zombie cicadas on speed

In west suburban Elmhurst, Lauren Cullens doctor told her theyre seeing about 10 to 15 people daily with similar bites in recent days.

We were kind of concerned because they were kind of large, she said, sharing the below photo of a bite her husband experienced with Nexstars WGN.

University of Illinois horticulture educator Ken Johnson said a similar situation happened in 2007, the last time the 17-year cicadas emerged. According to a University of Illinois report examining the last outbreak, the rash of bites is associated with the 17-year cicada.

More specifically, the bites are believed to be caused by Pyemotes mites, which thrive when cicada broods emerge.

Johnson said the cicadas lay their eggs  which the mites love to feast on  in tree branches, which provide the covered environment needed for the mites to multiply.

Cash App settlement: Are you eligible to claim up to $2,500?

You may be exposed to these mite bites while doing any activity, like hiking or sitting, under trees that have been infested, including oak trees and anywhere cicada egg nests were made, Paula Shrewsbury with the Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland explains. The mites may also be caught in the wind and land on you.

If youre concerned, about these, try to avoid areas that may potentially have these mites, Johnson said. If youve got areas that have a lot of evidence of cicada egg-laying, that may be an area to avoid. Cover up as much of your skin as possible. Typically, people most frequently have these [bites] on their neck, shoulder area.

If you have been in an area where the mites may be, Shrewsbury recommends bathing as soon as possible. Bug sprays used to prevent mosquitos and ticks have not been shown to prevent mite bites.

The symptoms  which can set in about 10 to 16 hours after exposure to the mites  include itching, rash, and bumps or welts. The bites can be uncomfortable and cause itching, but they usually clear up on their own and dont require medical attention.

How you enter Costco is about to change

You can use a product that provides relief from itching if you cant resist the scratching, Shrewsbury says.

Once the cicada eggs have hatched, a process that takes between six to 10 weeks, the mites should disappear as well. For those in the Chicago area, that could take until the end of August.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  Get ready for a new immersive cultural experience about the art of lei with stories shared in a new hula dinner show in Waikiki.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

Wake Up 2Days Chris Latronic went live from the Hyatt Regency Waikiki to learn all the details and participate in the action.

Raising awareness for World Day Against Trafficking in Persons

CNHAs CEO Kuhio Lewis, Creative Director and Producer of the show, Mahealani Mika, Hyatt Regency Waikikis General Manager Eron Hodges and Jeff Szombaty, Director of Food and Beverage Culinary Operations discussed the details of the new show.

Its a new hula-centric dinner show celebrating Hawaiis unique expression of love.

The ultimate expression of love is entwined in the joining of Hawaiis most fragrant flowers into a lei. Lei are given and worn as an embodiment of special moments, adoration of our island home, cherished memories of loved ones and the deep aloha we have for one another.

Na Lei Aloha has show days weekly from Sunday through Thursday, with dinner shows starting at 5 p.m. and regular shows at 6:30 p.m.

Guests can check in at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa on the third floor of Diamond Head Tower.

Four-hour self-parking is included with validation or $12 valet parking for up to four hours.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Namesake of Pensacola law firm dies at 104 years old

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WKRG)  A man who a personal injury attorney law firm is partially named after has died at the age of 104.

Patrick Emmanuel, Sr. of Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon died after a life serving his community and country.

Okaloosa County deputies, civilians heading to Suwannee County for TS Debby relief

Emmanuel was born in Pensacola in January 1920 and grew up in Cottage Hill, Florida, where he stayed until going to college at the University of Florida at the age of 16.

After graduating with a bachelors degree in business administration, he continued his studies at the University of Florida College of Law.

He finished two years of law school before serving in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945, during World War II. His unit of the army helped liberate France, Belgium and Luxembourg as well as fought in the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes.

When he was discharged from the army Emmanuel was ranked a Major.

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Emmanuel then completed his L.L.B. at the University of Florida College of Law in 1946. Once he graduated he returned to Pensacola and joined Holsberry and Holsberry and was eventually made partner, which changed the law firm to Holsberry, Holsberry and Emmanuel.

He has served in multiple positions including:

Member of the Board of Governors of the Florida Bar

Florida Bar President-elect

Florida Bar President

President of The Florida Bar Foundation

Member and Chairman of the Federal Judicial Nomination Commission of Florida

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He also received multiple awards including:

The Florida Bar Presidents Pro Bono Service Award

Florida Bar Foundation Medal of Honor

A-V rating by Martindale-Hubbel

Pensacola Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Pensacola Award

Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola and the UWF College of Business Ethics in Business Award

Emmanuel is survived by six children, 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Boeing's Starliner capsule, atop an Atlas V rocket, lifts off from launch pad at Space Launch Complex 41, Wednesday, June 5, 2024, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are headed to the International Space Station. | Chris O'Meara

Now over two months into a problem-plagued mission originally expected to last just over a week, NASA and Boeing officials appear to be of different minds as to the best next steps for bringing Boeings Starliner capsule and its two-person crew back to Earth.

At a Wednesday press conference notable for its lack of participation by any Boeing representatives, NASA engineers outlined work now under way to make room for astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft that, under one scenario, would return the two veteran astronauts and test pilots next February.

While underscoring that no final decision has yet been made about how to get Williams and Wilmore back to Earth, details about contingency plans were shared just a day after the announcement that the SpaceX Crew 9 mission to the International Space Station, originally scheduled to launch Aug. 18, had been pushed back over a month to potentially reconfigure that flight to make room for passengers when it returns next winter. Those potential changes include trimming Crew 9s original four-astronaut crew to just two to make room for the currently stranded Starliner crew to hitch a return ride.

The evolving plans shared by NASA on Wednesday, as well as concerns that the root causes of thruster failures and helium leaks that have beset Starliners first crewed mission have still not been determined, stood in contrast to a Friday press release from Boeings commercial space division that made a case for the spacecrafts fitness for bringing its astronauts back safely.

What Boeing says about return flight

In the release, Boeing provided a lengthy and detailed list of the testing and analysis that has taken place since problems arose on Starliners mission that launched June 5 from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and docked at the ISS the following day. Officials from the aerospace giants commercial crew program touted Starliners current readiness for a safe return but also yielded to NASAs continued quest for better data on the issues.

Boeing remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew, the release read. We continue to support NASAs requests for additional testing, data, analysis and reviews to affirm the spacecrafts safe undocking and landing capabilities.

Our confidence is based on this abundance of valuable testing from Boeing and NASA. The testing has confirmed 27 of 28 RCS thrusters are healthy and back to full operational capability. Starliners propulsion system also maintains redundancy and the helium levels remain stable.

During Wednesdays press conference, NASA Commercial Crew Program manager Steve Stich shared some insights into the decision-making process thats been underway since the U.S. space agency last provided an update on the Starliner mission two weeks ago.

Stich said that while returning Williams and Wilmore on Starliner remains the preferred scenario, some confidence in the capsules readiness for a safe flight back to Earth has been eroded by new information about the failure of a teflon seal thats part of the thruster components, five of which failed to perform to expectations when the spacecraft was docking with the ISS back in June. Stich said there has been healthy debate and a difference of opinions in discussions about Starliners fitness for a crewed return flight.

In the case that we have with the Starliner Crewed Flight Test, the option to either bring the crew home on the Starliner or bring the crew home on another vehicle, we could take either path and reasonable people could pick either path, depending on where their view is on our position on the uncertainty found in the data on the thruster system, Stich said. Moving forward, what were trying to do is reduce that uncertainty and see if we can drive some more consensus amongst our team. At the same time getting more serious about evaluating our other options.

Gonna hitch a ride?

Thanks to the success of NASAs other Commercial Crew Program contractee, SpaceX, there are various options to bring Williams and Wilmore back on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft that, while normally configured for four astronauts, can be modified in an emergency to carry as many as seven crew members.

Stich said he expects a final plan to bring the Starliner astronauts home will be determined by mid-August and noted a deadline is fast approaching thanks to other departure and arrival traffic due at the ISS in the coming weeks.

While this Starliner mission was planned to have a two-person crew aboard for the flights to and from the ISS, the space capsule can operate in a full autonomous mode and software updates are underway to allow the spacecraft to undock and return to Earth on its own if the decision is made to accommodate the crews return on another vehicle.

Previous reports from NASA detailed that five of 28 maneuvering thrusters failed to perform as expected during Starliners docking at the space station on June 6. Engineers also identified five small helium leaks, some of which were detected before the spacecraft launched. Helium is used in the capsules thruster firing procedure. The issues have led to a series of delays for Starliners return flight.

NASA has previously noted that Starliner has been OKd for use as an emergency return vehicle, should an unseen event at the space station lead to the need for an evacuation, and Stich confirmed Wednesday that status remained unchanged. There are currently six vehicles docked at the ISS including Boeings Starliner spacecraft, the SpaceX Dragon Endeavour spacecraft, the Northrop Grumman resupply ship, the Soyuz MS-25 crew ship, and the Progress 87 and 88 resupply ships. Two of them, the SpaceX Dragon and Russian Soyuz MS-25, are capable of carrying astronauts back to Earth in addition to Starliner.
No decision has been made yet, but NASA detailed an option to get Boeings Starliner astronauts home on a SpaceX Crew Dragon if needed.

NASAs Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams arrived on Starliner on June 6 a day after launching from Cape Canaveral on the Crew Flight Test mission for what was supposed to be about an eight-day stay on board the International Space Station.

Issues with thrusters and helium leaks on Starliners propulsion module, though, led Boeing and NASA to try and figure out if it would be safe enough to fly home with humans on board, going through a series of ground tests and on-station hot fires, but the exact problem has yet to be nailed down.

When we started this mission, it was a test mission. We knew that it potentially had a higher risk than a flight on a vehicle that has more experience, more flights on it, said NASAs Ken Bowersox, associate administrator of the Space Operations Mission Directorate. So were at the point now where we see additional risk thats in a fairly broad uncertainty band. Depending on how much data and how much understanding you have, you might take a different view of where we are in that risk band.

Bowersox did say our chances of an uncrewed Starliner return has increased a little bit based on where things have gone over the last week or two and thats why were looking more closely at that option to make sure that we can handle it.

But new data or new analysis could make it shift back, he said.

The primary backup plan if Starliner comes home without Williams and Wilmore would be to send up the SpaceX Crew-9 mission, now set for no earlier than Sept. 24, with only two of its four planned crew members on board the Crew Dragon Freedom.

The Starliners duo would then stay on board the ISS and officially join Expedition 72 and only fly home in February when SpaceXs Crew-10 mission is slated to arrive. NASA has not said which of the four Crew-9 members would have to stay behind. Currently assigned are NASA astronauts Zena Cardman, Nick Hague and Stephanie Wilson along with Roscomos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov.

We havent made a decision yet of whether we pursue the rest of the mission and completed nominally  or we have Starliner come home in an uncrewed configuration, said NASA Commercial Crew Program Manager Steve Stich. So thats the decision ahead of us. Knowing both Butch and Suni, they are professional astronauts and test pilots and they understand the difficulties of the decisions that were faced. They have complete confidence in the ground teams and and then theyll do what we need them to do.

Stich said Williams and Wilmore were already prepared as test pilots to potentially have to join the ISS crew for a long stay in case Starliner had issues during the flight. NASA has always built in contingency to its mission plans, he said. Other contingency options have been to send home SpaceX flights with one or two extra passengers home, something NASA and SpaceX had already tested out in case Russias Soyuz spacecraft had issues like it did when NASA astronaut Frank Rubio had to remain on board the ISS for a year instead of six months from 2022-2023.

Bowersox alluded to disagreement within NASAs ranks and Boeing over the risk posed to Starliner and its astronauts.

Its been really great to watch our team working  our Boeing team, our NASA team  the way people are speaking up, the way were hearing different voices, different thoughts on how critical different factors are in the decision, Bowersox said. I think its been very healthy. I have to admit that sometimes when we get disagreement, its not fun. It can be painful having those discussions, but its what makes us a good organization. And its what will get us to a good decision as we approach that point here in the future. And I dont think were too far away from making that call.

NASA has authorized Boeing to lay out the plan for what would be required to do that uncrewed undock, but wont get a look at that schedule until next week, Stich said. He said a decision by mid-August should be made about when the undock opportunities would fall with landing option starting Sept. 2 and then about ever four days.

Starliner would have to undock before Crew-9 could arrive as the ISS has only two ports that can handle either Starliner or Dragon spacecraft docking.

One of the limits to an uncrewed undocking is Starliners software, which would need some updating to configure some software parameters, not change the software overall. Starliner was able to undock without crew in 2022 during the OFT-2 mission. The time to change those parameters, though, isnt a quick fix, Stich said, and changes would have to be run through some test cases if we were to pivot to an uncrewed undock.

Boeing last week posted that its series of tests support flight rationale to send Starliner home as planned with astronauts on board as the company attempts to play catchup to SpaceX and be able to begin its contract to fly six regular Starliner missions on crew rotation to the ISS under the Commercial Crew Program.

NASAs Bowersox said Boeing cites its knowledge of their hardware and the sheer number of tests performed, and have run up against those in NASA he called more conservative since there is the more trusted SpaceX option to bring its astronauts home.

The views on just what the root cause is, and the physics of the deorbit burn needs of the thrusters and helium leaks are the items holding up the decision.

We could take either path and reasonable people could pick either path, depending on where their view is on our position in the uncertainty band that we have for the data that weve got on the thruster system on the propulsion system, Bowersox said. So moving forward, what were trying to do is reduce that uncertainty, see if we can drive some more consensus amongst our team. At the same time, getting more serious about evaluating our other options.
Traffic Jam

NASA is officially pushing back the upcoming launch of SpaceX's Crew-9 mission to the International Space Station, confirming earlier reporting by Ars Technica.

According to an official update, the mission  originally slated for August 18  now won't launch until September 24 at the earliest.

It's a significant delay that could buy NASA some much-needed time to figure out what to do with its two stranded astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stuck on the International Space Station for just over two months now due to ongoing issues plaguing Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.

"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 wrote in its update. "NASA and Boeing continue to evaluate the spacecrafts readiness, and no decisions have been made regarding Starliners return."

Lost in Space

The upcoming Crew-9 mission is currently scheduled to carry three NASA astronauts and a Russian cosmonaut to the station.

However, as Ars Technica reports, the agency is now pondering whether to launch the capsule with just two crew members on board to give Wilmore and Williams room for a ride back home.

After well over a month of delays, NASA is still stuck with the problem of Boeing's decrepit Starliner, which sprung several leaks during its journey to the orbital outpost. The viability of having the astronauts return on board the spacecraft remains anything but clear  and given the latest news, the space agency is keeping all its options open.

Worse yet, per Ars, the capsule's current flight software would need to be updated to allow it to autonomously undock and reenter the Earth's atmosphere without crew on board, a process that could take weeks.

Starliner's disastrous launch hasn't only affected the date of the Crew-9 mission. NASA also revealed that SpaceX's commercial resupply mission would slip to "no earlier than mid-October."

While Boeing remains "confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew," NASA administrator Bill Nelson will ultimately have the final say.

"His top priority, as always, is the safety of the crew," NASAs acting press secretary Meira Bernstein told CNN.

NASA is hosting a news conference at 12:30 pm EDT today, so we'll likely hear more about its decision-making soon.

More on the situation: It Turns Out Boeing's Derelict Starliner Is Unable to Fly Without a Crew on Board
By Joey Roulette

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -NASA officials said on Wednesday the two astronauts delivered to the International Space Station in June by Boeing's Starliner could return on SpaceX's Crew Dragon in February 2025 if Starliner is still deemed unsafe to return to Earth.

The U.S. space agency has been discussing potential plans with SpaceX to leave two seats empty on an upcoming Crew Dragon launch for NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who became the first crew to fly Boeing's Starliner capsule.

The astronauts' test mission, initially expected to last about eight days on the station, has been drawn out by issues on Starliner's propulsion system that have increasingly called into question the spacecraft's ability to safely return them to Earth as planned.

A Boeing spokesperson said if NASA decides to change Starliner's mission, the company "will take the actions necessary to configure Starliner for an uncrewed return."

Thruster failures during Starliner's initial approach to the ISS in June and several leaks of helium - used to pressurize those thrusters - have set Boeing off on a testing campaign to understand the cause and propose fixes to NASA, which has the final say. Recent results have unearthed new information, causing greater alarm about a safe return.

The latest test data have stirred disagreements and debate within NASA about whether to accept the risk of a Starliner return to Earth, or make the call to use Crew Dragon instead.

Using a SpaceX craft to return astronauts that Boeing had planned to bring back on Starliner would be a major blow to an aerospace giant that has struggled for years to compete with SpaceX and its more experienced Crew Dragon.

Starliner has been docked to the ISS for 63 of the maximum 90 days it can stay, and it is parked at the same port that Crew Dragon will have to use to deliver the upcoming astronaut crew.

Early Tuesday morning, NASA, using a SpaceX rocket and a Northrop Grumman capsule, delivered a routine shipment of food and supplies to the station, including extra clothes for Wilmore and Williams.

Starliner's high-stakes mission is a final test required before NASA can certify the spacecraft for routine astronaut flights to and from the ISS. Crew Dragon received NASA approval for astronaut flights in 2020.

Starliner development has been set back by management issues and numerous engineering problems. It has cost Boeing $1.6 billion since 2016, including $125 million from Starliner's current test mission, securities filings show.

CONCERNS AT NASA

A meeting this week of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, which oversees Starliner, ended with some officials disagreeing with a plan to accept Boeing's testing data and use Starliner to bring the astronauts home, officials said during a news conference.

"We didn't poll in a way that led to a conclusion," Commercial Crew Program chief Steve Stich said.

"We heard from a lot of folks that had concerns, and the decision was not clear," Ken Bowersox, NASA's space operations chief, added.

A Boeing executive was not at the Wednesday press conference.

While no decision has been made on using Starliner or Crew Dragon, NASA has been buying Boeing more time to do more testing and gather more data to build a better case to trust Starliner. Sometime next week is when NASA expects to decide, officials said.

The agency on Tuesday delayed by more than a month SpaceX's upcoming Crew Dragon mission, a routine flight called Crew-9, that is expected to send three NASA astronauts and a Russian cosmonaut to the ISS.

NASA's ISS program chief said the agency has not yet decided which astronauts they would pull off the mission for Wilmore and Williams if needed.

Boeing's testing so far has shown that four of Starliner's jets had failed in June because they overheated and automatically turned off, while other thrusters re-fired during tests appeared weaker than normal because of some restriction to their propellant.

Ground tests in late July at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico have helped reveal that the thrusters' overheating causes a teflon seal to warp, choking propellant tubes for the thrusters and thereby weakening their thrust.

"That, I would say, upped the level of discomfort, and not having a total understanding of the physics of what's happening," Stich said, describing why NASA now appears more willing to discuss a Crew Dragon contingency after previously downplaying such a prospect to reporters.

(Reporting by Joey Roulette; Editing by Nick Zieminski and Chris Sanders)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A woman wanted for firing shots out of a vehicle and a man who has reportedly been on the run since January are the newest additions to Nashvilles list of Most Wanted fugitives.

The list is updated every Wednesday on the Metro Nashville Police Department Criminal Warrants Divisions Facebook page. According to detectives, those featured on the list are often considered to be some of the most violent offenders in the city.

Serial car theft suspect arrested after running over Nashville man

Of the suspects on this weeks list, more than half are wanted for either homicide or charges related to alleged sex crimes. The rest of Nashvilles Most Wanted suspects are accused of crimes such as aggravated assault, aggravated robbery and child endangerment.

One of the newer faces on this weeks list initially was featured back in January, but as the search for his whereabouts continues, police have decided to try enlisting the publics help once again.

The Most Wanted list has aided investigators in numerous arrests since October 2022, when the program was launched. Authorities recently captured a serial car theft suspect just three weeks after featuring him among Nashvilles Most Wanted fugitives.

According to police, 30-year-old Thaddous Baskette is believed to have run over one of the victims in a stolen truck. The owner of the truck was reportedly hospitalized for over a week and had to have his spleen removed due to his injuries.

One of Nashvilles Most Wanted arrested, had 8 outstanding warrants

Emory Davis, 56, was also arrested just a day after appearing on the list last week. Many of his outstanding warrants were for violent offenses, including a July 14 armed robbery involving two convenience store clerks on Jenkins Street.

In total, at least 126 Most Wanted fugitives have been arrested since the program was launched in October 2022. Below is a list of the suspects who made the police departments Top 10 Most Wanted list the week of Aug. 7, 2024.

1. Adrian L. Cameron

Adrian Cameron (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

At number one, Adrian Cameron, 19, is considered this weeks Top Most Wanted fugitive, according to the MNPD. Its now been three months since Cameron first appeared at the top of the list. However, police began looking for him in mid-April.

Investigators said Cameron is one of three suspects in the death of 32-year-old rapper Chris King, who was shot and killed just before 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 20. King and his friends were reportedly hanging out in an alleyway between Hayes Street and Church Street that night.

RELATED: 1 killed, 1 injured in shooting along Hayes Street

Eventually, three other men began interacting with the group. Kings friends told police it started out cordial, but after some time, the three suspects allegedly tried to rob them. Thats when gunfire ran out, injuring King and his 29-year-old friend.

Both of them were brought to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, but King did not survive. Cameron, who was out on bond for the 2021 murder of 50-year-old Josh Evans at the time, was identified as a suspect in the shooting only days later.

Officials believe Cameron cut his ankle monitor shortly after the shooting. Cameron had just turned 17 years old when police said he turned himself in for Evans murder. Evans was found shot and wrapped in trash bags in the Cumberland River in Sept. 2021.

Unbelievable: Mourning Lebanon family outraged teen murder suspect was out on bond, accused of killing again

Cameron was arrested again for gun charges in Rutherford County less than four months after turning himself in for the 2021 murder. Hes now charged with criminal homicide in connection with Kings death, as well as failure to appear.

However, efforts to locate him have been unsuccessful. Anyone with information on Camerons whereabouts is asked to contact the MNPD at 615-862-8600 or Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

2. Lagarrion L. Blacksmith

Lagarrion Blacksmith (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Lagarrion Blacksmith, 35, has been at the top of Nashvilles Most Wanted list for several months as police continue to try to track him down.

He was initially added to the list on Nov. 29, 2023, after investigators said they were able to connect him to a deadly shooting that took place outside a Dickerson Pike bar last year.

Officers found 35-year-old Chancellor Eddins lying on the ground just outside of Trvth Lounge on Feb. 18, 2023. He had been shot and later died at the scene. Another man who had also been hit by the gunfire was able to give officers an account of what happened.

RELATED: Man wanted for homicide, other charges following fatal February shooting on Dickerson Pike

According to police, the injured man told them he and Eddins had gotten into an argument with the suspect inside of the bar. Then, shots were fired as they left the location. At the time, the identity of the alleged shooter was unclear.

Months later, investigators announced Blacksmith had been identified as a suspect. On Nov. 22, 2023, officials said arrest warrants had been issued against Blacksmith for criminal homicide, attempted homicide, and felon in possession of a handgun.

However, efforts to locate him have reportedly been unsuccessful.

3. Ladonte J. Groves

Ladonte Groves (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Ladonte Groves, 24, was added back to the list on April 3 after first being featured among Nashvilles Most Wanted on Aug. 16, 2023. Police said Groves has since been indicted by a grand jury on multiple charges related to alleged sex crimes.

The charges against him include two counts of rape, two counts of sexual battery and one count of domestic assault. Authorities said Groves was last seen in the East Nashville area. However, efforts to locate him have been unsuccessful.

4. Diego Camaja-Santiago

Diego Camaja-Santiago (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Police are continuing to search for Diego Camaja-Santiago, 24, after he initially appeared on the Most Wanted list nearly a year ago on Aug. 16. He was added back to the list on June 12 after being indicted by a grand jury on several charges related to alleged sex crimes.

Most crimes in Nashville returning to pre-pandemic levels, except one

According to authorities, Camaja-Santiago has outstanding warrants for two counts of aggravated rape with bodily injury, two counts of statutory rape and probation violation. His last location is unknown.

5. Edgar Monje-Alfaro

Edgar Monje-Alfaro (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Edgar Monje-Alfaro, 24, is wanted by the MNPD after recently being indicted by a grand jury on two counts of statutory rape. Monje-Alfaro was added to the Most Wanted list on July 3. Officials said his last location is unknown.

6. Adrian Abernathy

Adrian Abernathy (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Adrian Abernathy, 31, is believed to have been behind the wheel of a stolen car in a deadly October 2022 crash on the Rosa L. Parks Boulevard exit ramp from I-65 North.

Abernathy has outstanding warrants for vehicular homicide, three counts of aggravated assault, felon in possession of a weapon, theft of a motor vehicle, theft of a firearm, reckless endangerment and making a false report.

RELATED: Man wanted after allegedly lying about driving stolen car involved in deadly crash

According to police, Abernathy initially said he was a backseat passenger in the stolen Lincoln Navigator SUV. However, over the course of the investigation, detectives determined the seating positions were reversed and Abernathy was the one driving the car.

Authorities said he was traveling over 100 mph shortly before the crash, which killed 29-year-old Todd Bryant of Antioch.

Abernathy has been featured on the Most Wanted list several times since early February 2023. He was added back to the list on May 1 after last being featured in November. Officials said he was last seen in Hermitage.

7. Magic E. Johnson

Magic E. Johnson (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Magic Johnson, 36, is wanted on outstanding warrants for two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault by strangulation and felon in possession of a weapon, according to officials.

Court records show Johnson has an extensive criminal history dating back to 2006. He has previously been convicted of charges such as disorderly conduct, misdemeanor evading arrest, aggravated robbery, assault and multiple order of protection violations.

Johnson was added to the list last week. His last location is unknown.

8. Quierra C. Spear

Quierra C. Spear (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Quierra Spear, 27, is a new addition to this weeks list. Police said Spear is wanted on multiple outstanding warrants stemming from an incident in which she allegedly fired gunshots from within a vehicle.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

The charges against her include two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, reckless endangerment and vandalism. Detectives said Spear was last seen in the West Nashville area.

9. John R. Etter

John R. Etter III (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

John Etter III, 47, was added back to Nashvilles list of Most Wanted fugitives this week after last being featured in February. The first time he appeared on the list was Jan. 24. According to authorities, Etter still has not been located.

He is wanted on outstanding warrants for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated child endangerment involving a child between 9 and 17 years old, child endangerment and failure to appear.

Etters last location remains unknown.

10. Joshua R. Starkey

Joshua R. Starkey (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Joshua Starkey, 19, is among some of the youngest suspects to ever appear on Nashvilles Most Wanted list. Police said Starkey is wanted for one count of aggravated robbery with a weapon or object. He was added to the list on July 10. His last known location was in Hermitage.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Anyone with information on any of the suspects listed is asked to contact the MNPD at 615-862-8600 or Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
As global markets experience heightened volatility and economic data from the U.S. indicates a cooling labor market, investors are increasingly looking towards stable income sources. In this context, dividend stocks on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (SEHK) present an attractive option for those seeking consistent returns amidst uncertainty. A good dividend stock typically offers a reliable payout history, strong financial health, and resilience in fluctuating market conditions. Given current events, these qualities are particularly valuable for maintaining portfolio stability.

Top 10 Dividend Stocks In Hong Kong

Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating Chongqing Rural Commercial Bank (SEHK:3618) 8.40%  Lenovo Group (SEHK:992) 3.91%  Luk Fook Holdings (International) (SEHK:590) 9.01%  China Construction Bank (SEHK:939) 8.18%  Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group (SEHK:1929) 8.35%  S.A.S. Dragon Holdings (SEHK:1184) 9.54%  China Resources Land (SEHK:1109) 6.99%  Bank of China (SEHK:3988) 7.82%  China Mobile (SEHK:941) 6.84%  Sinopharm Group (SEHK:1099) 5.07% 

Click here to see the full list of 82 stocks from our Top SEHK Dividend Stocks screener.

Let's review some notable picks from our screened stocks.

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Xtep International Holdings Limited designs, develops, manufactures, and markets sports footwear, apparel, and accessories for adults and children in China with a market cap of HK$11.91 billion.

Operations: Xtep International Holdings Limited generates revenue from three main segments: Mass Market (CN11.95 billion), Fashion Sports (CN1.60 billion), and Professional Sports (CN795.53 million).

Dividend Yield: 4.6%

Xtep International Holdings has shown an 11.6% annual earnings growth over the past five years, with a dividend payout ratio of 48.8%, indicating dividends are well covered by earnings. Although its dividend yield of 4.62% is lower than top-tier payers in Hong Kong, dividends have increased over the past decade despite some volatility. Recently, Xtep announced a special dividend of HK$1.18 billion, reflecting strong cash flow coverage and shareholder returns commitment.

SEHK:1368 Dividend History as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: AsiaInfo Technologies Limited, with a market cap of HK$4.38 billion, provides telecom software products and related services across various industries including communications, government affairs, finance, energy, transportation, and postal sectors primarily in the People's Republic of China.

Story continues

Operations: AsiaInfo Technologies Limited generates revenue primarily from its communications software segment, which amounted to CN7.89 billion.

Dividend Yield: 8.7%

AsiaInfo Technologies faces challenges with a net loss of RMB 70-120 million for H1 2024 due to external uncertainties and reduced order volumes. Despite this, its dividend payout ratio of 64.4% and cash payout ratio of 72.1% indicate dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. The company has paid dividends for four years, showing reliability, but the track record is short. Profit margins have decreased from last year, impacting overall financial stability.

SEHK:1675 Dividend History as at Aug 2024

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Company Limited, with a market cap of HK$7.24 billion, manufactures, retails, and wholesales healthcare products and Chinese medicine to both wholesalers and individuals.

Operations: Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Company Limited generates revenue from three primary segments: Overseas (HK$482.44 million), Hong Kong (HK$1.17 billion), and Mainland China (HK$228.63 million).

Dividend Yield: 3.8%

Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine's dividend payments have been volatile over the past decade, with a payout ratio of 51.1% and a cash payout ratio of 62.9%, indicating dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. The company recently affirmed a final dividend of HK$0.33 per share for 2023 and appointed Ernst & Young as its new auditor. Despite trading slightly below fair value, the dividend yield is lower than top-tier Hong Kong payers.

SEHK:3613 Dividend History as at Aug 2024

Turning Ideas Into Actions

Unlock our comprehensive list of 82 Top SEHK Dividend Stocks by clicking here.

Have a stake in these businesses? Integrate your holdings into Simply Wall St's portfolio for notifications and detailed stock reports.

Take control of your financial future using Simply Wall St, offering free, in-depth knowledge of international markets to every investor.

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 SEHK:1368 SEHK:1675 and SEHK:3613.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
A routine trip for headache medication turned into a significant bust for one of Nassau County Sheriffs Office detectives. On the afternoon of July 30, a detective inadvertently thwarted a coordinated theft at a CVS Pharmacy on US Highway 1 in Callahan.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

According to NCSO, the detective was drawn to a suspicious Nissan Altima parked strategically for a quick getaway. His instincts proved correct when he observed one of the four suspects entering the store with an empty bag. Following the group inside, the detective watched the suspects gather around the diabetic test strip aisle. Three of the individuals concealed merchandise before all four exited the store.

The detective then intercepted the group in the parking lot. He blocked their vehicle with his unmarked car and identified himself as law enforcement. Two suspects, Tide Hayward, 27, and Eurando Jones, 41, initially resisted, prompting the detective to draw his firearm as a precaution until backup arrived.

With the arrival of additional deputies, all four suspects were taken into custody without further incident. The other two suspects were identified as Tieranie Daniels, 28, and Carlese Mitchell, 29. All four individuals, residents of Jacksonville, have been charged with felony retail theft.

A subsequent search of their vehicle uncovered stolen CVS blood glucose test strips valued at $1,617.27.

Sheriff Bill Leeper commended the detectives quick thinking and bravery: This incident highlights the importance of remaining vigilant, even while running a quick errand-- like getting some aspirin for example. Our detectives quick thinking and bravery potentially prevented further criminal activity and kept our community safe.

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  A rainy forecast on Tuesday led to some National Night Out events being postponed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

First responders across the country are hosting their own events on Tuesday. The annual community event generally features food, touch-a-truck contests and more family-friendly activities.

National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community, organizers said on their website. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

FULL FORECAST: Heavy showers, thunderstorms expected Tuesday night

Providence, Warwick, Johnston and New Bedford are among the communities that postponed their National Night Out.

New Bedford will be holding its event on Aug. 8, while Providence has pushed its event at Roger Williams Park to Aug. 15.

NEXT: State leaders recognize decline in chronic absences

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com.
Law enforcement, first responders, and residents came together Tuesday evening across the country to be part of National Night Out, an event that promotes partnerships between the community and law enforcement.

2023: Several police agencies, community members celebrate National Night Out

Kara McIlwain brought her four-year-old son, Jace, to see local heroes in action at National Night Out in Hidden Valley.

I want him to grow up in a safe neighborhood where he sees police officers that look like him, but also the ones that dont, that are also here to protect him, McIlwain said.

Darian Cuthbertson, the community engagement officer with the Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office, said his team wants to develop positive relationships with young people that last into adulthood.

It takes dedication, Cuthbertson said. It takes consistency, and thats the thing that young folks need is more consistency.

Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings, and dozens of law enforcement officers met with families Tuesday.

Jennings said Officer Joshua Eyer built those relationships with neighbors.

Eyer died in the line of duty in April.

Officer Joshua Eyer was one of the best we could ask for to do this job, Jennings said. The way he treated the community and the way he did this job every single day.

The officers said the way they do their jobs daily can make a long-lasting impact on the community.

The impact should last all year, said McIlwain. We have kids growing up and becoming a lot of different things.

VIDEO: Meck County DAs report details shootout that left 4 officers dead
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Tonight was National Night Out, and after the violence weve seen in the last couple of months, authorities say getting out into the community is important now more than ever.

With an increase in youth gun violence in Dayton, local leaders say National Night Out is a great opportunity for officials to not only talk with the community, but to reach out to at-risk youth.

It takes a village, and we need to get back to that, said Porothea Dennis, President of the Jane Reece Neighborhood Association.

Local police connect with community on National Night Out

National Night Out gave neighbors and the community a change to come together and talk with first responders and address any issues they may have, or simply have a conversation.

Its very important because a lot of kids are scared of the police and we dont want them to be scared of them, said Dennis. We want them to be coordinated with them so they are trusted people to go to in case they need them.

With the summer of violence that Dayton has seen, witnessing more than two dozen shootings between June and July, Dayton Police Chief Kamran Afzal says events like this are a collaborative effort to restore the community.

And help keep the at-risk youth stay engaged and away from going down a dangerous road.

Give them a confidence that there is a way out for people. Every year people do get out of it, said Chief Afzal. And as we have seen in a much smaller scale in some of the nonprofits that do work in the city, when you give young kids, older kids, juveniles, an opportunity to get out they flourish.

City leaders say Dayton has so much more to offer, and that these events are a great way to see whats out there.

Its not all negative. There are so many good things that are happening in our communities and we have to be talking about, engaging with our neighbors, engaging with our elected officials and our city administration staff, said Dayton Commissioner Chris Shaw.

Multiple churches, parks departments and educational organizations were also in attendance, to provide resources for anyone who needs them.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A GAO report found staffers responding to data requests at HHS, the CDC, and the Indian Health Service did not consistently recognize tribal epidemiology centers as public health authorities. (Getty Images)

Its not easy to make public health decisions without access to good data. And epidemiologists and public health workers for Native American communities say theyre often in the dark because state and federal agencies restrict their access to the latest numbers.

The 2010 reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act gave tribal epidemiology centers public health authority and requires the federal Department of Health and Human Services to grant them access to and use of data and other protected health information thats regularly distributed to state and local officials. But tribal epidemiology center workers have told government investigators thats not often the case.

By July 2020, American Indians and Alaskan Natives had a covid-19 infection rate 3 times that of non-Hispanic whites. Problems accessing data predated the pandemic, but the alarming infection and death rates in Native American communities underscored the importance of making data-sharing easier so tribal health leaders and epidemiologists have the information they need to make lifesaving decisions.

Tribal health officials have repeatedly said data denials impeded their responses to disease outbreaks, including slowing contact tracing during the pandemic and an ongoing syphilis outbreak in the Midwest and Southwest.

Were being blinded, said Meghan Curry OConnell, the chief public health officer for the Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board and a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. The sharing of data has improved somewhat in recent years, she said, but not enough.

Federal investigators and tribal epidemiologists have documented a litany of obstacles keeping state and federal public health information from tribes, including confusion about data-sharing policies, inconsistent processes for requesting information, data thats of poor quality or outdated, and strict privacy rules for sensitive data on health issues like HIV and substance misuse.

Limiting the ability of tribes and tribal epidemiology centers to monitor and respond to public health issues makes historical health disparities difficult to address. Life expectancy among American Indians and Alaskan Natives is at least 5 years shorter than the national average.

Sarah Shewbrooks and her colleagues at the Great Plains Tribal Epidemiology Center are among those whove found themselves blinded by bureaucratic walls. Shewbrooks said the data dearth was particularly evident during the covid pandemic, when her team couldnt access public health data available to other public health workers in state and local agencies. Her team was forced to manually record positive cases and deaths in the 311 counties of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa  the region the center serves.

Shewbrooks, director of the centers data-coordinating unit and its lead epidemiologist, estimates staffers spent more than a years worth of their time during the pandemic scraping together their own datasets to steer information to tribal leaders making decisions about closing down reservations and asking residents to isolate at home.

She said the process was frustrating and stressful, especially since it robbed her team of hours they couldve spent trying to save lives in the communities they serve. The tribes in their region were doing incredible things, she said, by providing food and shelter for people who needed to quarantine.

But they were having to do it all without being given real-time understanding of whats going on around them, Shewbrooks said.

Contact tracers who work for state governments cover Native American populations, but its important to have people from within the community take the lead, Shewbrooks said. Tribal workers are better equipped to move around within their communities and meet people where they are.

Shewbrooks said state contact tracers relied on calling and texting patients, which is often not the most effective method. Tribal members can be a hard-to-reach community for state workers whose protocol is to move on to the next case if they dont get a response.

So many cases were just getting closed, Shewbrooks said.

In 2022, the Government Accountability Office published a report that confirmed concerns raised by tribal health officials, including at the Great Plains tribal epidemiology center. Federal investigators found that health officials working to address public health issues in Native American communities dealt with federal agencies lacking clear processes, policies, and guidelines for sharing data with tribal officials.

In one example, officials said that as of November 2021, 10 of the 12 tribal epidemiology centers in the U.S. had access to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention covid data, but not all had full data. Some centers had access to case surveillance data that included information on positive cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. Only half said they also had access to covid vaccination data from HHS.

The GAO report also found that staffers responding to data requests at HHS, the CDC, and the Indian Health Service did not consistently recognize tribal epidemiology centers as public health authorities. Center officials told federal investigators that theyd sometimes been asked to request data they needed as outside researchers or through the Freedom of Information Act.

The report recommended agencies make several corrections, including responding to tribal epidemiology centers as required by law and clarifying how agency staffers should handle requests from epidemiology centers.

HHS officials agreed with all the recommendations. The agency consulted with tribal leaders in fall 2022 and, this year, published a draft policy that clarifies what data centers can access.

Some tribal leaders say the proposal is a step in the right direction but is incomplete. Jim Roberts, senior executive liaison in intergovernmental affairs at the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, a nonprofit organization that provides care and advocacy for Alaskan tribes, said the GAO report focused on tribal epidemiology centers, which operate separately from tribal governments, each serving dozens of tribes divided into regions. The report left out tribes, which he said have a right to their data as sovereign nations.

HHS officials declined an interview request, but Samira Burns, principal deputy assistant secretary for public affairs, said the agency is reviewing feedback and recommendations it received from tribal leaders during consultation on the draft policy and will continue to consult with tribes before its finalized.

Stronger federal policy on tribal data sharing would help with relationships with states, too, Roberts said. Tribal officials say problems theyve experienced at the federal level are often worse in states, where laws might not recognize tribes or tribal epidemiology centers as authorities that can receive data.

At the Northwest Tribal Epidemiology Center, which works on behalf of tribes in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, forging a data-use agreement with state governments in Washington and Oregon before the pandemic helped their response by providing immediate access to near real-time data on emergency room and other health care facility visits. The centers staff used this data to monitor for suspected covid-related visits that could be shared with tribal leaders.

It took seven months for the center to get access to covid surveillance data from the CDC, said Sujata Joshi, director of the Northwest centers Improving Data and Enhancing Access project, and about nine months for HHS vaccination data after vaccinations became available. Even after getting the information, she said, there were concerns about its quality.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF.
NC governments say they dont need heat officers. Heres what theyre doing instead.

In some sunny, hot corners of the country local governments have crafted a new government role solely focused on protecting people from high temperatures.

Cities like Los Angeles, Miami-Dade County and Phoenix have hired chief heat officers to measure the impact heat is having on the people who live there and figure out how to better protect them from it. Miamis effort was borne out of focus groups and surveys some community groups conducted to see what residents top concerns about climate change were.

It wasnt sea level rise and it wasnt even hurricanes, even though Hurricane Irma hit them pretty hard. It was extreme heat because thats what people were feeling now day in and day out, Jane Gilbert, Miamis chief heat officer, said in an interview.

Those impacts are felt by people working outside, when bus riders wait for their vehicle to arrive and in utilities bills when the air conditioning is running nonstop to keep homes cool, Gilbert added.

No North Carolina cities or counties have hired a chief heat officer, nor does the state have a full-time staff member dedicated solely to the problem. But steadily climbing temperatures here, including Raleighs hottest day on record, are forcing local governments and their counterparts in state government to focus more resources on responding to high temperatures.

At the state level, the N..C. Office of Recovery and Resilience has one staff member who serves as the organizations lead on heat. Amanda Martin, NCORRs chief resilience officer, said that staff member spends more than half her time working on heat-related issues right now.

Heat, Martin said, is with us today and will be with us tomorrow in a much more serious way. The idea that there are people who just focus on heat all day is fantastic and its new.

In Miami-Dade, Gilbert has worked to install 1,700 efficient air conditioning units in public housing, commissioned a study about which ZIP codes are more likely to see hospitalizations from heat and is working to lessen the concentration of heat in urban areas via an urban forestry plan.

Anyone can have a positive impact on addressing extreme heat. Theres different levels you can have depending on government capabilities. I just encourage any government to take a serious look at what they can do, Gilbert said.

NCORR worked with the N.C. State Climate Office, Chatham County officials and other partners earlier this year to draft a heat action plan toolkit. The document provides a template local governments can use to shape their response to dangerously high temperatures.

A plan for Chatham County

Chatham Countys version of a heat action plan runs 18 pages, explaining how county officials will prepare for heat season and then what they will do when temperatures reach heat advisory and heat watch levels.

The plan describes what resources are available to help low-income households access assistance for heating and cooling bills or to weatherize homes to help cut cooling costs. It also details when the county will open cooling centers and which community organizations need to open cooling centers of their own.

Chatham County officials acknowledge the plan likely isnt perfect, but said they will keep talking to community groups about how it can be improved.

We are expecting to find some gaps and improve on those as we go along, said Anne Lowry, the countys environmental health director.

This spring, one of those gaps involved pets. People cant bring their cats or dogs to the public buildings that are traditionally used as cooling centers, someone noted at one of the heat season kickoff meetings. In response, the county turned to its Parks and Recreation department, which now offers a misting station under a pavilion at Southwest District Park on hot days.

Still, neither Lowry nor Emergency Services Director Steve Newton believe that Chatham County needs to hire a staff member who focuses solely on heat. The countys departments and partner agencies work well together, they said, weathering challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic to storm responses to heat waves.

Right now its manageable to the degree that we can manage it, that were able to manage it. Were not saying that we can turn the climate around and make it not hot, Newton said.

Martin, the state resilience officer, views the response to high temperatures as a kind of entry point for local officials to think about mitigating heat in more systemic ways. Planting trees, providing fans to residents or putting reflective coating in the hottest corners of cities are all actions that need to be taken well before temperatures start to rise in order to soften the impacts.

That foot in the door to working on heat is thinking about the short-term things that they might already be doing but dont have a plan for, Martin said.

Raleighs approach to heat

The city of Raleigh doesnt have a heat officer or office, but its Office of Sustainability addresses heat and other climate-related challenges. That office is over a decade old and charged with implementing the citys community climate action plan, a plan to not only lower the citys greenhouse gas emissions but also address climate equity and building community resilience to the impacts of climate change.

A heat office is an emerging topic thats popped up in cities across the country, said Megan Anderson, sustainability director for the city. Its not something the city is considering now because the work is currently done in the Office of Sustainability.

Heat and flooding are two of the biggest climate impacts to the city of Raleigh, she said, adding the city has excellent partners with other city departments and with the state.

Even at the state level, were really lucky, Anderson said. We have access to the state climatologist who lives in Raleigh and the Office of Resilience. A lot of these groups that were working with at the state level, and theres a lot of leadership there.

Part of that heat work is using heat data to make changes throughout the city. In 2021, Raleigh and Durham sought volunteers to map urban heat islands to determine what parts of the city were hotter than others. Since then, the city has used that data in its planning processes.

There are a lot of issues where were trying to help protect people in the short term, give them information and education and provide places for them to go cool off, Anderson said.

That data can be used when building new public amenities like community centers and splash pads, is being used to decide where to plant 1,000 trees along city streets and which streets receive special pavement coatings that are cooler than regular asphalt.

We cant just blanket everywhere at one time, Anderson said. So were making sure were prioritizing the people that need it the most first.

Thats the people who may not have air conditioning in their homes or vehicles, or who have to walk several blocks along a street to wait at a bus stop.

The climate is changing, Anderson said. Its going to be a problem for more and more people. And as energy costs are rising, theres a (lack) of housing affordability. Were trying to educate people and to really try to make sure they understand what they can do to mitigate heat in the short term.

Its advice the city is taking itself.

Some city park maintenance staff and trash collectors are starting their shifts earlier in the morning to avoid working in the heat of the day.

Not one-size-fit-alls in Durham County

Like Raleigh, Durham County doesnt have a staff member solely focused on heat but is still thinking of it as part of a larger approach to climate resilience.

I could potentially see a position just focused on resilience but thats a lot broader than just heat, said Tobin Freid, the countys sustainability manager. In addition to heat, the county is focused on flooding, drought and wildfires, particularly the particulate matter carried in their smoke.

Still, Freid said Durham County has an Americorps member working on resilience who is spending a large portion of her time on heat. That includes passing out information about the risks from high temperatures, but also interviewing community members and conducting surveys to gather information about what people do and dont have at their disposal to deal with hot temperatures.

Its much more effective, in this heat, to talk to people about the heat than it was in March when it wasnt quite as hot, Freid said.

With heat, Durham County pays close attention to the impacts of redlining, the historic practice of discriminating by denying loans to certain people, including Black people, in order to prevent them from buying homes in some neighborhoods.

Durham Countys 2020 Community Health Assessment reported that heat risk is greater in the eight U.S. Census tracts that were historically redlined. Those included Hayti, East Durham and Franklin Village.

In those parts of the city, neighborhoods have fewer street trees and more pavement, the report found, resulting in temperatures that average 7 degrees hotter than areas that werent subjected to redlining. They also have more nonwhite residents living below the federal poverty line, unable to afford a car or struggling to keep the air conditioning running.

Information gathered by the Americorps member could be key, Freid said, to increasing resilience to heat in those neighborhoods and others.

Its not one-size-fits-all for each individual or each household, and its also not for each neighborhood, Freid said. Theres some neighborhoods who really, really need trees who dont have any, and that would help a lot. There are other neighborhoods where a lot of people take the bus and they really need bus shelters.

This story was produced with financial support from the Hartfield Foundation and Green South Foundation, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners, as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. The N&O maintains full editorial control of the work. If you would like to help support local journalism, please consider signing up for a digital subscription, which you can do here.
NC residents can use this real-time tool to search where stream flooding is likely

North Carolina residents and emergency planners can now get real-time information and alerts about where river and stream flooding is expected to happen using a tool they can access with mobile devices.

The Flood Inundation Mapping Alert Network website, which planners call FIMAN, was updated this year. It incorporates information from state and federal agencies and other sources to monitor stream levels and predict when they will rise to flood stage in events such as the heavy rains expected from Tropical Storm Debby.

How does FIMAN work?

Anyone can use the site. One of the 2024 updates was to eliminate the need to log in or create an account to get information.

Those who want to get alerts about flood risks do need to create an account that allows individualized text messaging, but there is no charge to sign up.

Some of the information FIMAN uses was already available online from the U.S. Geological Survey and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, but FIMAN combines it with data from the N.C. Department of Transportations flood warning system, local governments and some private agencies and makes it searchable by location and other categories.

Users go to the website and open the map of the state, where the locations of 585 gauges populate the screen as green dots. Any dot circled in another color  orange, red or purple  indicates a site where minor, moderate or major flooding is expected.

Clicking on a gauge can provide information about what the water level is now, when and how high its expected to peak, and the height of the water at its historical record flood. FIMAN also uses satellite mapping to show what development may be present near the streams.

Clicking on the menu and search bars allows users to enter particular addresses or search by towns or stream names to get information about potential flooding.

What does FIMAN say about flooding from Tropical Storm Debby?

On Tuesday afternoon, FIMAN showed only two gauges where major flooding is expected as a result of the heavy rains forecasters say Debby will bring by Friday night: the Black River near Tomahawk, in rural Sampson County, and the Lumber River in Lumberton.

According to FIMAN, moderate flooding is expected on the Neuse River at Goldsboro, the Cape Fear River at Burgaw and the Little River at Spring Lake.
The Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  Nebraska lawmakers on Wednesday confirmed Gov. Jim Pillens appointment of Matthew McCarville as the states chief information officer, despite a controversial email sent on his behalf that raised concern among some senators.

State Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, chair of the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, acknowledged that McCarville made a mistake in asking an assistant July 30 to send an email that encouraged his workforce to participate in a legislative hearing on Pillens plan for property tax relief.

But Brewer said that McCarville, who has been in the post since April, was clearly qualified for the position.

We need to have public servants who can admit when theyre wrong, he said.

The vote to confirm was 36-0, with nine senators not voting.

Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln was among the Government Committee members who previously grilled McCarville about the email during his confirmation committee hearing, which unfolded just hours after the email was sent.

She said Wednesday the rather strange timing of events clouded discussion of McCarvilles incredible educational background and compelling personal story.

At the time, McCarville told the Government Committee that he self-reported the incident to the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission and that the Nebraska Attorney Generals Office also was aware. McCarville said he was told that neither office felt there was a violation of state law.

Wednesday, however, NADC executive director David Hunter said the agency could not comment because there may be an ongoing investigation involving the email situation.

State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue said Wednesday during legislative debate on McCarvilles confirmation that the email mistake was pretty darn big and said she could not support his appointment.

States Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha challenged McCarvilles statement that he had voluntarily self-reported the incident to authorities. Cavanaugh noted that she had received complaints from whistle-blowers that morning and quickly distributed copies to news reporters and others.

State Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha said McCarville is a really talented tech guy with an impressive resume and record of service and said that hes probably the right person for that job.

However, she said, the email pressured and created a serious chilling effect on employees. Hunt said she is concerned about a culture in Pillens administration that would cause good people like him to send out these partisan campaign emails against their better judgment.

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Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers speaks about an 11-state effort to get the EPA to set a national rule on labeling farm chemicals. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)

OMAHA  Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers and Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird joined two farmers and state agricultural officials Wednesday in drawing a line in fertile soil.

The two ag-led states were among 11 states urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to stop a patchwork of state labeling efforts on farm chemicals.

Attorneys general in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Carolina, and South Dakota asked the EPA to issue a new rule on labeling.

Hilgers and Bird said their states typically nudge the federal government the other direction, against national regulation. This time, however, ag states are more worried about regulations being driven by California.

Californias labeling decision

The Golden State has pressed to label the weed-killer glyphosate as a carcinogen, meaning a chemical that can cause cancer. Glyphosate is more commonly known by its trade name, Roundup, a weed killer.

California officials have said the move is based on science. They and others point to a 2015 decision by the World Health Organizations International Agency for Research on Cancer labeling glyphosate as a probable trigger of cancer in humans.

States that object to labeling the chemical a carcinogen, including Nebraska and Iowa, say thats wrong. They point to older, longer EPA studies deeming glyphosate safe in agricultural uses as long as people follow the directions for use.

We know labeling, its a nationwide marketplace for this particular product, Hilgers said. The EPA has been given the authority to actually help regulate the labeling in this context.

The goal of the ag-state effort, he said, is to avoid the costs of complying with competing labeling requirements from multiple states, the logistical challenges involved and potential litigation.

Fears of glyphosate

Some academic studies have found that glyphosate has contributed to cancer when people are exposed to too much or apply it incorrectly.

Bayer, which bought Roundup from Monsanto, removed glyphosate from the Roundup spray people use in their homes in 2023 after lawsuits were filed. Some farmers have said they dont want to lose the ability to use the product in their fields.

A University of Washington review of research on the chemical has found that its risks are real, and another study cited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found traces of the chemical in the urine of 80% of the 2,310 people surveyed nationally.

Four Nebraska farmers sued Monsanto in 2016 alleging that its use was to blame for their non-Hodgkins lymphoma. They argued the product was mislabeled and should have contained warnings.

Farmers need reliable weed control

Glyphosate defenders say it controls weeds more cheaply and effectively than other options and point to EPA findings that the chemical can be safely used by following directions.

Bird, who said she still lives on family-owned farm ground, said ag faces enough challenges without worrying about whether one state can ban something that farmers in other states rely on to control weeds.

She said her family and Iowa farmers have been using glyphosate for decades without trouble. Bird said if they need to resort to different weed-control options it will add to the costs of farming and food.

It kind of tells you something when, in order to keep on farming, farmers need a lawyer to stand up for them against regulations, and Im very glad to do that, she said.

Asked why companies manufacturing glyphosate and other farm chemicals couldnt just print Californias label and sell the product elsewhere Hilgers said laws in Nebraska and other states prevent deceptive and inaccurate labeling.

Bird and Hilgers questioned what would happen if other states want to attach product labels they disagree with. Bird said its an issue of why one state should dictate to others.

Theres no way that a state like California should tell a farmer in Nebraska or Iowa how to farm, she said. Its not their business, and its not their place as far as the law goes.

Hilgers said farmers might also have to worry about the costs of potential lawsuits if they apply a product labeled as a carcinogen, whether that label is based on science or not.

Ag perspectives

Sherry Vinton, the director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, said farmers cant control the prices that crops and livestock fetch at market, but they try to control input costs.

We dont need to be price-gouged on our input costs from unnecessary government regulation, she said of the California labeling decision, which a court has since halted through an injunction.

Kevin Ross, a farmer from Underwood, Iowa, and a past president of the National Corn Growers Association, said farmers need the EPA to set a national rule for all to follow.

He said glyphosate is one of the most cost-effective tools he has to control weeds. Other options require more expensive chemicals that dont perform as well and might be more harmful, Ross said.

Competition is real

Mark McHargue, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau and a Merrick County corn and soybean farmer, said there is a limit to the number of tools farmers can use to grow food.

He said American farmers often compete with growers from Argentina and other countries that use glyphosate with fewer restrictions.

McHargue said farmers arent asking to put people at risk. Theyre asking to have consistent rules, grounded in science, that are set at the national level.

There is a growing trend as new herbicides, chemicals and livestock production methods are developed and farmers start using those tools, he said. A movement of certain people, maybe thats not scientifically based, saying, you know, I dont like that.

Hilgers and Bird said it is their job to protect farmers and ranchers from that uncertainty. Hilgers said the ag states want to encourage the EPA to do the right thing and exercise its congressionally approved authority.

If it doesnt, Hilgers said, states are prepared to pursue other options, from trying to address the issue in the farm bill to filing lawsuits. He said glyphosate is that important.

There is no substitute for it, Hilgers said. We dont have a substitute that is as effective and as low cost that exists.

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WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  The U.S. Department of Commerce has agreed to a preliminary deal with SK hynix to provide up to $450 million in grant funding and an additional loan of up to $500 million to support its plans to build an advanced packaging fabrication and research and development facility for AI products in the Purdue Research Park.

Coming on the heels of SK hynix's April announcement that the company would invest $4 billion to build the facility, the U.S. Department of Commerce's funding is earmarked for production and advanced packaging research and development for AI supply chain security in the United States.

The new facility will be home to an advanced semiconductor packaging production line that will mass-produce next-generation HBM chips, the critical component of graphics processing units that train AI systems such as ChatGPT, Purdue said in a news release. The planned research and development facility is expected to bring at least 800 new jobs to West Lafayette.

We are excited about the Department of Commerces support, through the CHIPS and Science Act, of the largest semiconductor production facility located at a university in the U.S., Purdue President Mung Chiang said in the release. This facility will be transformational, as SK hynix leads globally in AI memory chips.

More: Purdue Research Foundation president retires; search for replacement begins

The South Korean company will build a 430,000-square-foot facility on 90 acres of land at the Purdue Research Park in West Lafayette. The next-generation chips the facility will manufacture boast more advanced performance than the companys latest high-bandwidth-memory, the release said, which processes up to 1.18 terabytes of data  the equivalent of 230 full HD movies  per second.

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 CEO Kwak Noh-Jung said in the release.

Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said in the release he is grateful for the state's partnership with Purdue, pointing particularly to U.S. Sen. Todd Young for his pursuit of SK hynix's investment in the West Lafayette campus.

Indiana is a global leader when it comes to innovating and producing the products that will power our future economy. Todays announcement supporting the planned work of SK hynix in West Lafayette is further proof that Indiana is a key player on both the national and economic security stages, Holcomb said. Im proud our SK hynix partnership answers the call for industry growth in America for decades to come."

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: SK hynix awarded $450M grant, $500M loan for Purdue AI-chip facility
A sprayer rolls across a field of soybeans in Burleigh County, North Dakota, on July 11, 2024. (Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor)

OMAHA  Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers and Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird joined two farmers and state agricultural officials Wednesday in drawing a line in fertile soil.

The two ag-led states were among 11 states urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to stop a patchwork of state labeling efforts on farm chemicals.

Attorneys general in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Carolina, and South Dakota asked the EPA to issue a new rule on labeling.

Hilgers and Bird said their states typically nudge the federal government the other direction, against national regulation. This time, however, ag states are more worried about regulations being driven by California.

Californias labeling decision

The Golden State has pressed to label the weed-killer glyphosate as a carcinogen, meaning a chemical that can cause cancer. Glyphosate is more commonly known by its trade name, Roundup, a weed killer.

California officials have said the move is based on science. They and others point to a 2015 decision by the World Health Organizations International Agency for Research on Cancer labeling glyphosate as a probable trigger of cancer in humans.

States that object to labeling the chemical a carcinogen, including Nebraska and Iowa, say thats wrong. They point to older, longer EPA studies deeming glyphosate safe in agricultural uses as long as people follow the directions for use.

We know labeling, its a nationwide marketplace for this particular product, Hilgers said. The EPA has been given the authority to actually help regulate the labeling in this context.

The goal of the ag-state effort, he said, is to avoid the costs of complying with competing labeling requirements from multiple states, the logistical challenges involved and potential litigation.

Fears of glyphosate

Some academic studies have found that glyphosate has contributed to cancer when people are exposed to too much or apply it incorrectly.

Bayer, which bought Roundup from Monsanto, removed glyphosate from the Roundup spray people use in their homes in 2023 after lawsuits were filed. Some farmers have said they dont want to lose the ability to use the product in their fields.

A University of Washington review of research on the chemical has found that its risks are real, and another study cited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found traces of the chemical in the urine of 80% of the 2,310 people surveyed nationally.

Four Nebraska farmers sued Monsanto in 2016 alleging that its use was to blame for their non-Hodgkins lymphoma. They argued the product was mislabeled and should have contained warnings.

Farmers need reliable weed control

Glyphosate defenders say it controls weeds more cheaply and effectively than other options and point to EPA findings that the chemical can be safely used by following directions.

Bird, who said she still lives on family-owned farm ground, said ag faces enough challenges without worrying about whether one state can ban something that farmers in other states rely on to control weeds.

She said her family and Iowa farmers have been using glyphosate for decades without trouble. Bird said if they need to resort to different weed-control options it will add to the costs of farming and food.

It kind of tells you something when, in order to keep on farming, farmers need a lawyer to stand up for them against regulations, and Im very glad to do that, she said.

Asked why companies manufacturing glyphosate and other farm chemicals couldnt just print Californias label and sell the product elsewhere Hilgers said laws in Nebraska and other states prevent deceptive and inaccurate labeling.

Bird and Hilgers questioned what would happen if other states want to attach product labels they disagree with. Bird said its an issue of why one state should dictate to others.

Theres no way that a state like California should tell a farmer in Nebraska or Iowa how to farm, she said. Its not their business, and its not their place as far as the law goes.

Hilgers said farmers might also have to worry about the costs of potential lawsuits if they apply a product labeled as a carcinogen, whether that label is based on science or not.

Ag perspectives

Sherry Vinton, the director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, said farmers cant control the prices that crops and livestock fetch at market, but they try to control input costs.

We dont need to be price-gouged on our input costs from unnecessary government regulation, she said of the California labeling decision, which a court has since halted through an injunction.

Kevin Ross, a farmer from Underwood, Iowa, and a past president of the National Corn Growers Association, said farmers need the EPA to set a national rule for all to follow.

He said glyphosate is one of the most cost-effective tools he has to control weeds. Other options require more expensive chemicals that dont perform as well and might be more harmful, Ross said.

Competition is real

Mark McHargue, president of the Nebraska Farm Bureau and a Merrick County corn and soybean farmer, said there is a limit to the number of tools farmers can use to grow food.

He said American farmers often compete with growers from Argentina and other countries that use glyphosate with fewer restrictions.

McHargue said farmers arent asking to put people at risk. Theyre asking to have consistent rules, grounded in science, that are set at the national level.

There is a growing trend as new herbicides, chemicals and livestock production methods are developed and farmers start using those tools, he said. A movement of certain people, maybe thats not scientifically based, saying, you know, I dont like that.

Hilgers and Bird said it is their job to protect farmers and ranchers from that uncertainty. Hilgers said the ag states want to encourage the EPA to do the right thing and exercise its congressionally approved authority.

If it doesnt, Hilgers said, states are prepared to pursue other options, from trying to address the issue in the farm bill to filing lawsuits. He said glyphosate is that important.

There is no substitute for it, Hilgers said. We dont have a substitute that is as effective and as low cost that exists.

Nebraska Examiner is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Nebraska Examiner maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Cate Folsom for questions: info@nebraskaexaminer.com. Follow Nebraska Examiner on Facebook and X.
Nebraska U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn announces that he is no longer seeking or accepting endorsements from any political party. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)

OMAHA  Nebraska U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn, who led a strike in 2021 against Kelloggs, expressed frustration Tuesday that 600 cereal plant workers he helped negotiate better pay and benefits for had learned the Omaha factory would close.

The company announced the decision to close the Omaha plant in a press release Tuesday, with WK Kelloggs CEO Gary Pilnik saying the company needed to shore up its supply chain and invest more in its plants in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Ontario.

In a video response to the closure, Osborn said more than 600 local jobs would be eliminated from the plant, which opened in 1942. He said that the company remained profitable and that it was wrong for companies like Kelloggs to put profits over people.

We need to be angry about this, Osborn said. These are hard-working people.  This is a clear attack on the middle class that is constantly dwindling in this country.

During strike negotiations, Kelloggs argued that it was working to remain competitive with other cereal manufacturers.

Osborn, a nonpartisan candidate challenging U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., said Tuesday evening it was flattering that some of his GOP critics said he needs to consider his role in the plants closure, saying that an 11-week strike didnt help.

I was just one cog in the wheel, he said.

Osborn says company profitable

He said the company has spent the past decade trying to cut its labor costs despite running profits of $19 billion before COVID-19 and $21 billion after.

Is this a retaliation from the strike? Osborn asked. Its definitely within the realm of possibility. But there are three other plants with the exact same wages. Omaha is the biggest. Seems unlikely that they would close that one.

Its much more likely that the company decided it could meet production demand with fewer people, he said, and that the pending closure in 2026 was a way to get other union leaders to come back to the bargaining table.

Current Kelloggs union leaders in Omaha told the Examiner on Tuesday they hope to negotiate with the company to save jobs and keep the plant open. Workers were sent home Tuesday after being notified that production would ramp down in 2025.

Kenny Merritt, president of the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers Local 50-G union, said he and other employees were a little upset that the closure announcement happened the way it did.

But they dont blame previous negotiations, he said, because those occurred under previous management. His focus is showing WK Kelloggs that the Omaha plant can still be productive, despite some older manufacturing technology.

They say the towers are outdated and dont perform as well, Merritt said. We disagree. We have some things that we want to work out.

Fischer declined to comment

Osborn, who is now a steamfitter, announced in May that he was taking a break from his work and paying himself a salary to campaign full time.

Fischer declined to comment about the Kelloggs plant closure. Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert, also a Republican, said the closure announcement came as quite a shock. She said she was disappointed that a 75-year relationship could end this way.

Kelloggs will leave a big void, she said. Our first concern will be the Kelloggs employees, and assisting them transition to new employment as Kelloggs prepares to reduce production next year and close in 2026.

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Justice Neil Gorsuch is out with a new book this week, titled Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law. It is, per the justice, a meditation on all the ways Americans are being strangled by pointless overregulation. In new interviews this weekend with the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Atlantic, Fox News, and others, Gorsuch made big headlines for warning that President Joe Biden should be careful before venturing into his newly announced Supreme Court reforms.

But lost in that cacophony were some fascinating reflections from Gorsuch on his views about James Madison, originalism, and how history actually works. Among other things, he told the Wall Street Journal that James Madison has gotten short shrift amid the Hamilton theatrical phenomenon and that whenever the Founders needed something important done, they turned to Madisonany important writing. He added that the backbone of our Constitutionthe Bill of Rights was all Madison. I asked Dean of Georgetown Law William Treanor, a legal historian of the founding era whose scholarly work focuses on constitutional interpretation, judicial review, and the original understanding of the Constitution, what we can learn from Gorsuchs comments this week about the original views of the Framers. Our conversation, which took place over email and has been edited for length and clarity, is below.

Dahlia Lithwick: Justice Gorsuch had a good bit to say about originalism this week. He told David French in the New York Times that he is channeling Madison when he says government exists to tap into the wisdom of the masses, and that this is lost when the executive branch runs roughshod over the legislature, as he claims happened during the COVID pandemic. You can find that in the Federalist Papers. You can find that in John Locke in the Second Treatise of Government  it does give you a glimpse into a world where everythings done by the executive branch without tapping into the wisdom of the masses. Is this a fair and correct and originalist reading of what the Framers were attempting to do?

William Treanor: Madison was not a champion of the wisdom of the masses. He was suspicious of majorities because he believed people were governed by self-interest. In Federalist No. 51, he memorably wrote, If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary. He believed that ambition must be made to counter ambition, and he denounced the oppression of factious majorities.

His core constitutional idea was that, given the multitude of factions in the United States, each fighting for its own interests, legislation would likely reflect justice and the general good because so many self-interested factions supported it. He envisioned a system generating good legislation when people pursued self-interest. The result may be wise, but it is because of interest group battling, not because it is the product of the wisdom of the masses.

There was, however, a drafter who believed in the wisdom of the masses, and his name was James Wilson. Wilson believed that people had an innate moral sense, and he had great faith in their judgment. In fact, he was the only real champion of democracy at the convention.

Wilson believed that congressional decisions reflected the wisdom of the masses. But, unlike the court today, he also believed that presidential decisions reflected the wisdom of the masses. For Wilson, Congress and the president were in equal ways delegates of the people.

Although forgotten today, he had a greater influence on the drafting than Madison, so the idea that the Constitution reflects the wisdom of the masses has good support, but it is because of Wilson, not Madison. Fittingly, the Constitutions immortal opening words reflect Wilsons vision of popular rule. He proposed that the Constitution begin We the People. And, unlike some of the courts recent originalist decisions curtailing executive administrative power, Wilson saw the president, as well as Congress, as empowered to carry out the will of We the People.

Along the same lines, Gorsuch told the Wall Street Journal that he is trying to restore Madisonian thought to its rightful place in the constitutional pantheon. Did the Founders always turn to Madison as Gorsuch claims? In the first decade after the founding was Madison on the winning or losing side of most of the big constitutional struggles?

Justice Gorsuchs view of Madison as the Father of the Constitution is standard today, but it was not the view at the founding. Indeed, when Madison left the convention, he was deeply depressed because the Constitution differed so profoundly from his vision of what the Constitution should have looked like. Nor was he dominant in the great constitutional battles of the Washington and Adams administrations. In fact, he was generally on the losing side, while Hamilton and the Federalists prevailed. Madison opposed the creation of the Bank of the United States on constitutional grounds; Hamilton disagreed, Congress enacted the bill, and Washington signed it. Madison thought that Washington lacked the power under the Constitution to proclaim the United States neutrality in the war between France and Great Britain; Hamilton thought that Washington had that power, and Washington followed Hamiltons advice and issued the Neutrality Proclamation. Madison opposed the Alien and Sedition Acts; Congress enacted them. After his service as president and as the last surviving member of the Constitutional Convention, Madison in the 1820s began to be referred to as the Father of the Constitution, but that is not how he was regarded in the first decades of the Republic.

Is it true that the founding generation expected judges to second-guess the legislature? Or did the founding generation think that lifetime-appointed judges should energetically use judicial review to check the legislature?

There is an irony to the originalist view that is dominant on the Supreme Court today: The courts originalism ignores the original understanding of the judicial role. Its activism is at odds with the original understanding of courts very limited role.

Judicial review was well established at the founding. The common view that it was created in Marbury v. Madison is simply wrong. There were at least 31 federal and state cases handed down between the [realization of the] Constitution and Marbury in which a statute was held unconstitutional. But the exercise of judicial review in these cases was very limited: Courts struck down statutes that altered their jurisdiction or curtailed jury rights. In fact, Marbury, in which the court invalidated a jurisdictional statute, is a representative example of early judicial review.

These early cases reflect a limited view of judicial review that is at odds with recent originalist decisions. Early courts did not second-guess the wisdom of legislatures. They acted only to protect their power and the power of juriesthe parts of government that were not involved in the legislative process.

This reading of Madison as the obvious and clearly correct winner of the constitutional framing seems eerily reminiscent of the ways in which judges now cite to dissents as if they were majority opinions and claim that they were always such.

I am currently writing a book called Fathers of the Constitution, and my argument is that two now-nearly-forgotten delegates, James Wilson and Gouverneur Morris, had greater success than Madison at the Constitutional Convention. They spoke more than he did. They were also the principal drafters of the text of the Constitution, serving on the two committees that actually wrote much of the Constitution. Their ideas shaped the document more than Madisons, and their ideas were very different from his.

As I have said, Wilson was the conventions primary champion of democracy. Morris was the leading opponent of slavery. Together, they championed a vision of expansive powers of Congress and the president that was very different from Madisons more limited conceptions. If the court wants to recapture the actual original meaning of the Constitutions textwhich is the stated goal of textualistsit should not focus on Madison. The founders on whom it should focus are Wilson and Morris.

And of the two, I am particularly drawn to Morris. Morris was a Hamiltonian before Hamilton, a champion of a strong Congress and a strong president. He was Hamiltons best friend, Hamilton looked up to him, and Hamilton stayed with him during the convention. While Hamilton played a minor role at the convention, Morris was central. When Hamilton came up with the idea of writing The Federalist, he asked Morris to be his co-author. Hamilton turned to Madison only after Morris turned him down, which makes Madison almost certainly the most prominent understudy in the annals of political history. At the end of the convention, General Washington chose Gouverneur Morris to accompany him on his triumphal march through the city. Washington did not choose Madison. Neither should the court. If we have to pick one drafter as Father of the Constitution, my vote is for Morris.
Front pages of the post-raid edition of the Marion County Record are displayed July 25, 2024, on the front window of the newspaper office

Front pages of the post-raid edition of the Marion County Record are displayed July 25, 2024, on the front window of the newspaper office. The page read: "Seized ... but not silenced." (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)

This story is part of a series by Kansas Reflector and The Handbasket to examine the one-year anniversary of the raid on the Marion County Record. Support independent journalism by subscribing to The Handbasket or donating to Kansas Reflector.

MARION  When police raided the Marion newspaper office in August 2023, the initial explanation seemed fairly straightforward: Police Chief Gideon Cody was seeking revenge against local press for an investigation into his past, and was using a local businesswoman with a DUI as a pawn.

While Codys grudge played a role in the unprecedented Marion County Record raid, in the year since, details of messy relationships in this small town paired with the inner-workings of a corrupt local government paint a picture thats more complicated. And even though the special prosecutors report released Monday clears everyone involved but Cody of criminal wrongdoing, it does nothing to diffuse allegations of police malfeasance.

Information provided in the five federal lawsuits filed in connection to this case makes it clear that while certain names  like Eric Meyer, the owner and publisher of the Marion County Record whose office and home were raided, Ruth Herbel, the city councilwoman whose home was also raided, and Kari Newell, whose driving record kicked off this whole fracas  dominated the story, others flew under the radar in the immediate aftermath.

The story unfolded just like it was a novella or something. Literally every day there was something new, said Kansas Rep. Mari-Lynn Poskin, a Democrat from the Kansas City metro who earlier this year proposed a resolution to support the freedom of the press. I definitely remember every day just going, Are you kidding me? 

It is now clear that then-Marion Mayor David Mayfield and Marion County Sheriff Jeff Soyez were instrumental in the raids and harbored resentments of their own against the targets. And Mayfields wife, Jami, helped stoke the flames from the outside.

Cody had it in for us, Im certain, Meyer said in his office in late July as he reflected on last years raids, but somebody had to overrule the city administrator and say, Cody, go ahead. And that was David Mayfield.

Mayfield, according to one of the lawsuits, asked Soyez to help him find a new police chief in late 2022 after the previous one quit. Soyez was friends with Cody when they both worked in Kansas City, and Soyez strongly urged Mayfield to hire him for the job. It was difficult for Mayfield to say no: In addition to being mayor, the former Kansas Highway Patrol trooper also works part-time for Soyez transporting local prisoners.

Shortly after the raids, The Handbasket learned the Record had been investigating claims that Cody had been demoted at his last post for inappropriate conduct toward other officers, as the Record later reported. Multiple sources also alleged to the Record that Cody ran over a dead body at a crime scene.

Codys loathing for the Record helped explain the motivation for the raids in the early days, but it didnt capture the whole story.

Two weeks before the raids, Mayfield posted the following on his personal Facebook page: The real villains in America arent Black people. They arent white people. They arent Asians. They arent Latinos. They arent women. They arent gays. They are the radical journalists, teachers and professors who do nothing but sow division between the American people.

Meyer, who taught journalism at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, believed the post targeted him. In his lawsuit, Meyer accuses Mayfield of spurring Cody to investigate the newspaper.

But they didnt act alone. Sheriffs deputies drafted the search warrant applications and helped carry out the raid. Soyez threw a pizza party when the officers seized computers and cellphones from the newspaper office and Meyers and Herbels homes.

Former Councilwoman Ruth Herbel, July 25, 2024

Herbel worked closely with Mayfield in her official capacity. In a recent conversation at Newells former coffee shop in Marion, now under new management, Herbel said she had supported Mayfields campaign for mayor, but then he just flipped.

Herbel recalled a combatant relationship with Mayfield, which she attributes, in part, to her gender and outspoken nature.

I dont think he likes a woman to stand up to him, she said. And Ive always been one that stood up and shared my view with anybody that would listen.

According to her lawsuit filed in May against multiple city officials, Mayfield once called her a bitch during an executive session of the council.

Jami Mayfield, the mayors wife, also became involved in taking down Herbel. In February 2023 she launched an effort to recall Herbel from the council. In a Facebook post shown in one of the lawsuits, she wrote, if anyone is interested in signing a petition to recall councilor Herbel and silence the MCR in the process let me know. The MCR refers to the Marion County Record.

The fix was in for Herbel before the raid. As the Kansas Reflector explained in May, her lawsuit describes how Cody sent an email to county prosecutor Joel Ensey with the subject line: Crimes? The email outlined five possible ways they could charge Herbel with a crime.

And for Record reporter Phyllis Zorn, the parties involved decided shed be charged with identity theft, of which she is now cleared, per Mondays report.

When (Cody) was questioning me, he kept trying to intimidate me, Zorn recalled recently in her first interview since the raid, which took place before the release of the report. He would say things like, Youre a smart girl. I like you. Im trying to keep you out of trouble. And Im looking at him and thinking, I havent done anything illegal. You couldnt get me in trouble if you wanted to. Of course, thats the story he stuck with  that I had done something illegal.

Among Ensey, Herbel, Cody and Mayfield, Ensey is the only one who still has his job. Mayfield decided not to run for reelection and Herbel lost her reelection bid. Cody stepped down in October and was replaced by Zach Hudlin, who was part of the team that carried out last summers raids. Cody will face a low-level felony charge of obstructing the judicial process for telling Kari Newell to delete text messages related to the pre-raid events. The other public officials and law enforcement officers involved have escaped criminal charges.

Our strategy from the very beginning has been Cody was clearly the one in charge, and we were going to pursue him first, said Blake Shuart, attorney for former Record reporter Deb Gruver, in a recent interview.

Deb Gruver and attorney Blake Shuart answer questions during a July 12, 2024, interview

Gruver was present during the raid on the newspaper, when Cody snatched her cell phone from her hand. The citys liability insurance provider paid Gruver $235,000 to settle the claims against Cody, but her lawsuit continues against Soyez and Ensey.

Now after nearly a year of waiting, the current and former staffers of the Marion County Record know they wont face charges.

Their report makes it clear that they arrived at this conclusion mere days after the raid, Meyer told Kansas Reflector on Monday. 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 the case  those who didnt flee the state  seem to have escaped similar scrutiny.

Many hoped the report would clear up the narrative, but it created more questions. While the report says investigators talked to Mayfield, there is nothing in the report about his conversations with Cody. And the overarching narrative in the report is that the Marion police officers and sheriffs deputies simply didnt realize that their actions were wrong.

And the report largely excuses Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents for joining the investigation into whether Zorn, Meyer and Herbel committed crimes.

The report revealed that KBI agent Todd Leeds met with law enforcement in Marion two days before the raid. As Kansas Reflector previously reported, police sent Leeds a copy of a search warrant a day before the raid. But the report says Leeds was attending a funeral and wasnt sure why the warrants were sent to him.

When investigators asked Leeds why he didnt follow up with anyone in Marion about the search warrant, he told them: I should have. His lack of a formal, insistent response arguably led Chief Cody to construe Agent Leeds silence as acquiescence, the report said.

Marion County Record editor Eric Meyer smokes in the back door of the newspaper office on July 25, 2024

Two days after the raid, Cody called KBI special agent in charge Bethanie Popejoy while she was at Sunday church service. She told investigators 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 told investigators.

But later that Sunday, Popejoy texted Cody: I know you feel 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.

And in a statement that day, KBI director Tony Mattivi defended the efforts of KBI agents who regularly investigate and gather facts.

No one is above the law, whether a public official or a representative of the media, Mattivi said.

The report makes no mention of Mattivi or his statement.

KBI spokeswoman Melissa Underwood, in a statement after the report was released Monday, said, 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.
Humans have long built towering structures to showcase the power of empires, rulers, religions and corporations. Today, more tall buildings are popping up than ever before. But skyscrapers could soon have a new purpose: storing renewable energy.

One of the biggest hurdles to a power grid dominated by clean energy is the intermittency of some renewable sources. Sometimes clouds roll in when solar energy is needed, or the wind stops blowing, and turbines cant generate power. Other times, the sun and wind produce more electricity than is required.

Storage is crucial for balancing generation and consumption. A combination of technologies  from various forms of batteries to other energy storage methods  will likely be necessary to increase capacity.

Enter battery skyscrapers. At the end of May, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the architecture and engineering firm behind some of the worlds tallest buildings, announced a partnership with the energy storage company Energy Vault to develop new gravity energy storage solutions.

That includes a design for a skyscraper that would use a motor powered by electricity from the grid to elevate giant blocks when energy demand is low. These blocks would store the electricity as potential energy. When there is demand, the blocks would be lowered, releasing the energy, which would be converted into electricity.

Tall buildings are SOMs specialty. It designed New Yorks One World Trade Center, Chicagos Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, and the worlds tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is more than 828 meters (2,700 feet) tall.

Heres an opportunity to take this expertise  and use it for energy storage, enabling us to wean ourselves [off] fossil fuels, Bill Baker, a consulting partner at SOM and structural engineer for the Burj Khalifa, told CNN.

Net zero requires grid-scale storage

If the world wants to reach net zero by 2050, grid-scale storage, or technologies connected to the power grid that can store energy and deploy it when needed, will need to be ramped up, according to the International Energy Association.

Lithium-ion batteries, which are popular for electric vehicles, cant solve the problem alone. For one, they cant store energy for long periods.

That may be fine for shifting energy from the sunniest part of the afternoon to the evening, when demand spikes, but energy may need to be stored for longer than that.

Pumped storage hydropower, which is already widely used to store renewable energy, can do that. It entails a turbine pumping water from a reservoir on lower ground to one on higher ground during off-peak hours. When demand spikes, the water is released to flow through an electricity-generating turbine. But it requires hilly terrain and a lot of space.

SOM and Energy Vaults superstructure tower, which could range from 300 to 1,000 meters (985 to 3,300 feet) in height, would have hollowed out structures resembling elevator shafts for moving the blocks, leaving room for residential and commercial tenants. (The firms are also looking at integrating pumped storage hydropower into skyscrapers, using water instead of blocks).

A view of the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, in December 2022. It was designed by SOM. - Abdelhadi Ramahi/Reuters

Ultimately, multi-gigawatts-hours of energy could be stored, which is enough to power several buildings, Robert Piconi, the CEO of Energy Vault, told CNN.

Two energy storage experts contacted by CNN questioned if the economics of a skyscraper battery could work, given the space that would need to be used for energy storage and the structural changes that would be needed to support the extra weight.

But Energy Vault and SOM are confident their solutions are commercially viable.

Energy Vault has already completed a project in China which it says is the worlds first commercial-scale, non-pumped hydro gravitational energy storage system. The 150-meters-tall (492 feet) building  which has a storage capacity of 100 megawatt hours  is purpose-built to store energy and doesnt have space for tenants.

The taller the better?

Enabling the use of renewable energy would help offset the carbon footprint of supertall buildings. Today, the buildings and construction sector is responsible for almost 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

There is work underway to address that, from equipping buildings with better insulation to building with alternative materials that are less carbon-intensive, like timber.

Some buildings are literally getting greener. In Milan, Italian architect Stefano Boeri has created towers covered in trees and shrubs, and he has unveiled a similar design for towers in Dubai.

But buildings are getting taller and more plentiful too, at least partially to meet demand from rapid urbanization, which has driven people into cities, where limited space can mean the best way to build is up.

Between 1900 and 1999, 235 buildings taller than 200 meters (656 feet) were built globally, Daniel Safarik, of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, told CNN in an email. Last year, 179 buildings of that height or more were built.

When it comes to gravity-energy storage structures, the taller the better. A very tall gravity energy storage structure could offset its embodied carbon  from construction and materials  within two to four years.

If youre going high in a superstructure anyway, were just piggybacking on that, said Piconi.

SOM and Energy Vault are now looking for development partners to turn their designs into reality. SOMs credibility in the tall buildings arena will help address the challenge of getting the first one built, said Piconi.

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The NHS move comes in the wake of the Cass Review, an independent report into transgender services - Alamy/PA

The NHS is to launch its first ever service for transgender patients wanting to return to the gender of their birth.

The move comes in the wake of the Cass Review, an independent report into transgender services, which found that children were being hurried down affirmative pathways involving powerful drugs and medical interventions.

The review made a series of recommendations to the NHS, including to provide care for people who had changed their minds after transitioning, and warned health leaders not to use the same medics previously involved in their care.

NHS England published its plans to transform care for gender-questioning children on Wednesday, and accepted the recommendations of Dr Hilary Casss report in full.

They include developing the first NHS service to treat transgender patients who want to return to their gender at birth.

Prof Sir Stephen Powis, the NHS medical director, hailed Dr Casss invaluable work and said the plans outlined by the health service would ensure a fundamentally different and safer model of care for children.

He said: The plan published today now fully maps out this new service for children and young people and their families, which will be led by evidence and ongoing research to ensure their needs are fully met.

Health Service officials said the next step was to define an NHS pathway for those individuals who choose to detransition, because no guidance on how to care for them currently exists.

The NHS said: There is no defined clinical pathway in the NHS for individuals who are considering detransition. NHS England will establish a programme of work to explore the issues around a detransition pathway by October 2024.

It said this would include examining the rate at which patients detransition and their reasons for doing so, as these are currently unknown, and would recognise that individuals who choose to detransition may not wish to re-engage with the services they were previously under, as per the recommendations.

Dr Cass said a lack of long-term data made it impossible to know how frequently people detransitioned, although anecdotally it was increasing.

The lack of long-term evidence was also why the review said puberty blockers should not be prescribed outside a clinical trial. That trial is now set to begin from early 2025, the NHS confirmed, with the first patients enrolled from April next year.

This will be the only way to legally access puberty blockers in the UK after the High Court upheld a ban that extended to private prescriptions after it was introduced in May.

In its update, the health service also confirmed that it would publish a review into adult services by the end of the year after Dr Cass heard concerns from staff and patients that extended beyond the remit of her review into childrens services.

That review will be led by Dr David Levy, the medical director for the Lancashire and South Cumbria integrated care board, and look to improve care.

Prof James Palmer, the NHS medical director for specialised commissioning, said it was clear that our services for adults need focus too and that the review would address poor experience but also learn from good experiences of care.

The NHS will also look at setting up an early adulthood service for trans patients aged 17 to 25, who had until now been sent straight to adult clinics, where gender assessments are less holistic.

Dr Cass found that children were being given powerful cross-sex hormones at adult clinics from the age of 17, while there was also evidence people changed their mind up until about the age of 25, as she advocated an unhurried model of care.

The NHS will also continue with its plans to open eight specialist hubs by 2026 for children with gender dysphoria or incongruence, replacing the defunct Tavistock clinic. The first two opened in April, and are run by Great Ormond Street Hospital in London and Alder Hey Childrens Hospital in Liverpool.

The next regional hub is set to open in Bristol in November, with a further site operated by Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust opening next spring. By 2026, there will be one in every region, offering a suite of paediatric and mental health support for children and families.

Dr Cass said the next important step will be the most challenging  turning it into a reality.

She added: The vision of the review  reflected in the implementation plan  is to increase available services for gender-questioning young people which take a holistic approach to care addressing the needs of each individual, and which put in place a full package of care which can be delivered as close to home as possible.

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ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  Nigerian security forces have detained seven Polish nations, including six students and a lecturer, for allegedly displaying Russian flags during protests against economic hardship in the West African nation, Nigerian and Polish authorities said Wednesday.

The Poles were arrested Monday in the northern Kano state because of where they were found during the protests and for displaying foreign flags, said Peter Afunanya, a spokesman for the Nigeria secret service, at a meeting of diplomats hosted by Nigerias foreign affairs ministry in the capital, Abuja.

Afunanya did not say if the Poles being detained were participating in the protests when they were arrested, nor was there any evidence of their involvement presented at the meeting.

The University of Warsaw confirmed those detained were students and a lecturer who were in Nigeria for a study trip organized by the university, according to the Polish state news agency PAP.

The students found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time, Polish deputy foreign minister Andrzej Szejna told PAP. The Poles were not carrying any flags, Szejna said, but added, It seems they were taking photos and this had been interpreted in this way.

The Polish foreign affairs ministry said on X that its officials in Nigeria are establishing the exact circumstances of the incident with Nigerian authorities.

Thousands of mostly young Nigerians had poured onto the streets across the country to protest against the countrys worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation and against alleged bad governance that has stifled the countrys development despite being a top oil producer.

In several northern states, a few protesters were seen waving Russian flags, a trend that until now was only common in Africa in coup-hit countries where pro-Russian sentiments are growing off the back of coups by militaries severing ties with the West.

In response to a question by a Polish diplomat about their whereabouts, the Nigerian secret service spokesman said the agency was open to working with Poland on the issue.

It is not a targeted operation at Polish citizens, Afunanya said, although he didn't elaborate on what steps will be taken next in the case.

The Nigerian secret service had said Monday that it had arrested the tailors sewing the Russian flags as well as those sponsoring them.

Analysts have said the trends of waving Russian flags during protests, seen for the first time in Nigeria, could be dangerous, and shows just how far anti-Western and pro-Russian sentiments have grown in parts of Africa.

In one viral video from Kano state, a protester who looked to be in his teenage years held a Russian flag beside a placard that read: Russia come and help us. Russia has denied any involvement in the use of its flags in the protests.

Nigerias military chief Christopher Musa said such acts constitute treason, which is punishable by death in the country and is defined by Nigerian laws as any act that among other things instigate(s) any foreigner to invade Nigeria with an armed force.

-

Associated Press journalist Vanessa Gera in Warsaw, Poland contributed.

____

Follow APs Africa coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/africa
As the remnants of tropical storm Debby barreled northward toward New Jersey on Tuesday, environmentalists gathered on the Asbury Park boardwalk to rally behind an effort that  if approved  will require homes along the Jersey Shore to be built even higher than currently required and make more homeowners buy flood insurance.

On Monday, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection officials published new draft rules  "Resilient Environment and Landscapes," or REAL, rules  in the New Jersey Register.

The proposed rules take a forward-looking perspective on protecting homes and businesses from flooding and increasingly powerful storms. The REAL rules call for higher building heights in coastal flood zones  an additional 5 feet above the Federal Emergency Management Agency's 100-year flood elevation  to account for rising sea levels over the next 75 years.

The rules would also expand existing flood zones to include more homes, would require larger stormwater management systems with greater capacity, and urge the restoration or rebuilding of natural buffers like wetlands to protect communities from storm surges.

"Today's infrastructure is not built to withstand tomorrow's storms," said Chris Sotiro, policy and program coordinator for New Jersey Future, a nonprofit organization that promotes sustainable development. Sotiro joined other environmentalists from various organizations Tuesday on the boardwalk to applaud the state's proposed rules.

Less than a year ago, flooding temporarily shuttered some businesses in Asbury Park and led to economic hardship for workers and business owners here. Flooding has become an almost routine threat, not just in parts of this city, but in communities across the Jersey Shore.

Those floods have left a heavy financial burden for the communities impacted. Between 1980 and July, 2024, New Jersey had 12 tropical storms that caused between $50 billion and $100 billion in damages, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. The state also had four flood events unrelated to tropical storms that caused an additional $1 to $2 billion in damages, according to the agency.

Managing risk: How can Asbury Park, Neptune stop ferocious lake flooding?

The state's "REAL (proposal) expands the area considered flood prone to account for future sea level rise," said Sotiro, of New Jersey Future. The rules "will change the way we build and rebuild in vulnerable areas, providing residents, municipalities, builders and advocates with a more holistic understanding of flood risk."

That risk is increasing over time, scientists say. By the end of the century, Rutgers University experts predict sea level will be between 2 and 8 feet higher along the Jersey Shore than in the year 2000.

Already, sea levels in New Jersey are 8 inches higher than they were in 1900, according to Rutgers' scientists.

Wesley Lake overflowed its banks Friday afternoon, September 29, 2023, flooding Lake Avenue (left) in Asbury Park, NJ.

"The traditional way we respond to storms is, right afterwards, we try to rebuild and we do a little bit better but we don't look at the fundamentals," said Tony MacDonald, director of the Urban Coast Institute at Monmouth University. The institute works to foster sustainable development along the Jersey Shore.

"We're getting more and more science telling us that sea level rise is increasing at a pretty steady pace," MacDonald said. "We can debate people have different opinions about exactly how much, but I don't think anybody disagrees that it exacerbates the impact of storms that might be coming."

Existing building rules looked to past storms and floods to predict how high buildings should be raised, but they fail to account for future sea level projections, advocates of the proposed changes said. New Jersey's proposed REAL rules would change that.

The rules would also require storm water management systems be built to reflect changes in precipitation that scientists say make New Jersey more prone to flash floods and intense rainfall.

"The simple fact is that we've been building in too many flood prone areas," said Jim Waltman, executive director of the Watershed Institute, an environmental organization based in Pennington, Mercer County. "We're putting people's lives at risk, and the people who live downstream from these new developments."

Jim Waltman, executive director of the Watershed Institute, applauds proposed building regulations that would better protect structures from flooding in the future, while at the Asbury Park boardwalk on Aug. 6, 2024.

The New Jersey Business and Industry Association, or NJBIA, has criticized the state's proposed rules, saying they will force people out of vibrant communities like Long Branch and Hoboken and make it harder for coastal residents to rebuild from storm damage.

"While we agree that the state should consider SLR (sea level rise) and climate change projections in their coastal regulations, what the (Gov. Phil) Murphy administration proposes goes far beyond any rational proposal," said Ray Cantor, NJBIA deputy chief of government affairs, in a news release. "In fact, no other state, federal agency, or international entity is regulating SLR (sea level rise) to this extreme extent."

The proposed rules would create "no build" zones in coastal communities and some urban areas, make redevelopment more difficult in cities, and would limit construction of affordable housing, Cantor said. The rules would also lower home values, force more people to buy flood insurance and result in lost tax revenue, he said.

Cantor said the state's proposed 5-foot additional building height requirement was "extreme" and based on just one report.

"This is not to deny climate change," he said. "But we should be denying extreme and costly policies."

Jennifer Coffey, executive director of the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions, a group that represents municipal boards focused on sustainable development, said the proposed REAL rules make economic sense.

"We often hear that preparing for climate change costs money, but others have told us that not preparing for climate change costs us billions of dollars," she said. Climate change "upends communities, ruins businesses, loses jobs, and so these rules are really a smart economic investment."

Officials with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection will hold three public hearings on the proposed rules. An in-person hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 5 at Ocean County College, Gateway Lecture Hall, room 104 (Building 101), College Drive, Toms River. Two virtual hearings are scheduled for 2 p.m. Sept. 12 and 10 a.m. Sept. 19. Access the virtual hearings at https://dep.nj.gov/njreal/hearings/.

New Jersey residents may also submit comments on the proposed rule online at the Department of Environmental Protection website.

Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers education and the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than 16 years. Reach her at @OglesbyAPP, aoglesby@gannettnj.com or 732-557-5701.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: NJ REAL rules: Protecting coastal communities or hurting businesses?
'No choice,' says Elon Musk as he confirms X's move from San Francisco

Elon Musk has confirmed the headquarters of X is moving out of San Francisco. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI

Aug. 6 (UPI) -- Elon Musk has confirmed reports that the headquarters of his social media company X is moving out of San Francisco, citing issues with the California city's business environment.

"No choice," he said in response to a post concerning the move on X.

"It is impossible to operate in San Francisco if you're processing payments," he offered as reason without elaborating.

The confirmation comes after The New York Times reported Monday that X was shuttering its San Francisco office over the next couple of weeks, with employees to be moved to existing offices in San Jose, Calif.

Citing an email to employees by X chief executive Linda Yaccarino, The Times reported that an new engineering-focused office will also be opened at the social media platform's Palo Alto, Calif., site.

"This is an important decision that impacts many of you, but it is the right one for our company in the long term," Yaccarino said in the email.

The office of San Francisco Mayor London Breed told Nexstar in a statement that it was aware of X's plan to relocate "a small number of employees" from the city.

"Our focus remains on working with and supporting the many businesses that call S.F. home, from global headquarters to leading AI companies and thousands of small businesses," it said as it defended the city's reputation for being a tech hub.

"We are building a stronger San Francisco, and together with committed business partners, that progress is well underway."

Last month, Musk said he was moving the headquarters of not only X but SpaceX from California to Texas in response to the Western state enacting a new law banning schools from outing LGBTQ students to their parents.

Fuming online, Musk, who has previously butted heads with California's Democratic government, said the law was "the final straw."

"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 said.

In late 2021, Musk also moved the headquarters for his automobile company, Tesla, from Palo Alto, Calif., to Austin, Texas.

When he announced that move, he cited the lack of affordable housing in Palo Alto and the long commutes of workers.
In the recent UK general election, Kier Starmer's Labour Party won a landslide victory, ending the Conservatives' 14 years in power and ushering in what appears to be a complete change in how the UK generates and uses its energy.

The UKs two main political parties, which have swapped the reins of power for the past 80 years, have demonstrated vastly differing views on oil and gas exploration in the North Sea, which has formed the basis of the UKs energy production for decades.

While the Conservative Party intended to issue new exploration licences annually, Labour pledged to stop doing so, potentially decreasing employment in the North Sea and Scotland as fields dry up and companies look for new opportunities.

The Labour Party has said it wont revoke any existing licences for exploration.

Starmer has promised to stop issuing new licences for North Sea exploration, but what will happen to current production licences is unclear. The Labour Party has not given further information about any possible legal issues related to companies recently granted licences after paying for and carrying out exploration research.

However, businesses are still unsure about what happens to these operations during the oil and gas production process, as they would need to apply separately for another licence as part of that phase, according to independent think tank Green Alliances senior policy analyst Heather Plumpton.

Throughout the UK election campaign, Starmer assured voters that transitioning to a greener economy would not result in job losses. However, his oil licensing pledges have highlighted a potential employment crisis as Labour fails to provide definitive answers about the impact on industry workers.

Parallels with the UKs coal industry

Stephen Flynn, the Scottish Nationalist Partys Westminster leader, has criticised Labour's North Sea energy plans for the oil and gas sector, arguing the proposal for a fossil fuel windfall tax on companies would eventually lead to 100,000 job losses, a claim that several industry players have questioned.

Labour plans to hike the tax on fossil fuel companies from 75% of excess profits to 78%, as well as extend the policy until 2029.

However, could Labours plans for the North Sea lead to a situation reminiscent of the 1980s miners' strikes during the tenure of then-Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher?

Thatcher, first elected in 1979, saw trade unions as an obstacle to economic growth within the UK, and throughout the early 1980s passed legislation to limit their power, such as requiring balloting of members and limiting secondary picketing.

Story continues

In March 1984, significant industrial action began to occur in the British coal industry to oppose the closure of around 20 mines that the government considered "uneconomical". This led to large-scale industrial action until March 1985.

The pit closures, which were expected to result in 20,000 job losses, prompted around three-quarters of the country's 187,000 miners to go on strike, the BBC reported. Following the end of the strike, which the National Union of Mineworkers eventually called off, a wave of pit closures ensued, leading to the shutdown of almost all of the UK's underground deep coal mines within the next two decades.

In 1992 alone, 32 additional pit closures were announced as gas became the favoured fuel for power stations.

According to Sheffield Hallam University, the UK coal industry as a whole employed around 221,000 workers when the strike began, but there were fewer than 7,000 employees by March 2005. The UK's last deep coal mine, Kellingley Colliery in North Yorkshire, ceased operations in December 2015.

Could there be a repeat of 1984?

For the past 40 years, parts of Scotland and the North East of England have had access to well-paid, secure jobs provided by North Sea oil  but now those regions face an uncertain future.

Analysts have warned that if Labour's policies are poorly implemented or the transition process mismanaged, employment chaos within the sector could result. This would compound existing concerns about the economy and parallel the structural and industrial challenges Thatcher's government faced.

Studies over the past 30 years show that various initiatives have been implemented to improve the economic conditions in coal mining and other post-industrial communities hit hardest by the move away from coal. However, despite funding being made available for local communities, many regions of the north of England were hit hard, with unemployment staying above the national average for several years after the strike was called off.

It is absolutely vital the [job losses in the North Sea and Scotland] dont become a repeat of the miners' crisis of the 1980s, said Plumpton, before adding: I think there is a slight difference here: we have one industry in decline and other potential industries on the rise.

Regarding accusations that Labour could kill up to 100,000 jobs in the sector, Plumpton also confirmed to Offshore Technology that the job losses are just a geological reality of the North Sea, and means it is a declining industry and jobs are disappearing.

She mentioned that despite the next government's policy on licensing, the region has seen a consistent increase in job losses in recent years, with more than 8,000 jobs having disappeared in the past decade alone.

However, Plumpton also noted the possibility of a significant increase in clean energy jobs over the next decade, at least partially offsetting potential losses in the oil and gas sector.

Balancing job losses and job gains

Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) estimates that the offshore oil and gas sector employed 200,800 individuals in the UK in 2021, around 22,300 more than in 2020.

GlobalData, Offshore Technologys parent company, says the oil and gas industry employs an estimated 150,000200,000 workers, largely in the east and north-east of the UK along the North Sea coast.

However, gradually falling production levels are likely to prompt at least some job losses.

As per government data, diminishing investment in the extraction of oil and gas in the North Sea has been pushing the UKs production into a decline for at least a decade.

The decline in investment in the mature North Sea basin prompted production to reach its lowest point since 1999 in the third quarter of 2023, when total production stood at 23.2 million tonnes of oil equivalent.

Projections from Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, indicate a decline in North Sea jobs by up to 30,000, 20% higher than the governments projection. According to Uplift UK, which supports a rapid and fair UK transition away from oil and gas production, argues that despite the government granting hundreds of licences over the past decade, the number of jobs supported by oil and gas has still decreased by more than 50%.

However, employment in clean energy industries could also be on the rise.

According to the solar energy company Green Switch Capital, a large player in the UKs onshore and offshore wind market, Scotland has the highest proportion of green jobs, at 3.3%, a rise from 1.7% last year.

However, Plumpton has cited the security of these jobs as an important issue. Moreover, it also needs to considered whether workers have the necessary skills to transition to where the jobs are located, she added.

According to the Green Alliance analyst, the next government would have to address the policy gaps quickly, involving workers, industry and the government itself, to retain any jobs lost in the North Sea.

Reacting to Labours pledge that no jobs would be lost in the oil industry, she said: You can't expect people to magically transfer across. You need coordination, planning and support for training. It is one thing to say something like no jobs [will be] lost, but another to deliver policy to [ensure] that happens in reality.

In its party manifesto, Labour announced its Green Prosperity Plan, a partnership with businesses through the National Wealth Fund that promises to create 650,000 jobs across the country by 2030.

However, there werent any specific commitments on that, Plumpton said. They have said positive things, but I don't know the details of [Labours] policy planning.

Transitioning from conventional energy sectors to sustainable industries poses intricate problems for policymakers, industry players and workers. Despite legitimate worries about job cuts, the emergence of clean energy sectors does offer fresh employment opportunities.

However, the focus should be on ensuring that workers have the essential skills to adapt to the changing job landscape, a task the Labour Party may take years to accomplish.

"UK election: Labours win sparks debate over North Sea oil workers future" was originally created and published by Offshore 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.
As the Paris Olympics began in the summer of 2024, social media users once again claimed France's first lady Brigitte Macron was born a man.

In late July, an X user shared a two-second video of Macron walking beside her husband, French President Emmanuel Macron, in a white dress. As she moved, a soft fold appeared below her waist, which the X user implied was the mark of male gen*t*ls (archived).

This is Brigitte Macron



What do you see? pic.twitter.com/BCW0ag3gvB  MAVERICK X (@MAVERIC68078049) July 28, 2024

This was posted weeks after U.S. conservative pundit Candace Owens called Brigitte Macron "a man" in response to another X user asking "what" Emmanuel was married to" (archived).

The rumor began in April 2021, a year before the 2022 French presidential election, in which incumbent President Emmanuel Macron ran successfully for a second term. It first appeared in a French far-right publication named Faits & Documents (Facts & Documents), which purported to be a "confidential" newsletter (it required a subscription and its sole distribution format was paper). Known for its antisemitism and its conspiracy theories, its writer was a man named Xavier Poussard.

That month, the publication hired Natacha Rey as a contributing writer for a story that claimed Brigitte Macron was born a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux. The same story alleged that before her transition, Brigitte Macron had her three children with a woman named Catherine Auziere. According to the writers, Macron's former husband, Andre-Louis Auziere, had never existed.

Faits & Documents went on to elaborate on this story in six other issues of the newsletter published into fall 2021, months before the election.

Importantly, the allegations built on, and revived, a rumor that started in 2016 during Emmanuel Macron's first presidential campaign, in which it was claimed he was gay. None of these rumors hold up under close scrutiny.

The story that Brigitte Macron is trans, however, did not go viral until Dec. 10, 2021. On that day, Natacha Rey was invited to do a live interview by YouTube personality and self-proclaimed psychic Amandine Roy, whose real name is Delphine Jegousse. In that four-hour live video, Rey and Jegousse discussed the rumor and its details. While the conversation garnered more than 450,000 views, it was ultimately taken down, and Emmanuel Macron was reelected against his main contender, far-right candidate Marine Le Pen.

The Rumor Arrives in the U.S.

On March 11, 2024, Owens amplified the allegations in the United States. Owens repeated the rumors in great detail on her podcast, citing Pressibus  a French site that previously peddled unfounded hypotheses about the COVID-19 pandemic  as a source. She shared a link to her podcast on X; the post had amassed more than 7.4 million views as of this writing.



(screen capture)

Brigitte Macron's Actual Family Tree

"At a given point, I realized that they were subverting my genealogy," Brigitte Macron declared to a French radio station in January 2022. "They changed my family tree. It was fine for three quarters of my family, but then we get to my brother and I am my brother They are messing with my parents' genealogy, it's impossible."

Contradicting the rumors, Brigitte Macron, nee Trogneux, and Jean-Michel Trogneux are siblings. They are the two youngest of six siblings. The family includes sisters Annie, Maryvonne (who died in 1960) and Monique, and brother Jean-Claude (who died in 2018). Jean-Michel was still alive at the time of this writing.

Macron's ex-husband was named Louis-Andre Auziere. The two divorced in 2006 after 30 years of marriage, and he died on Dec. 24, 2019, at 68. Together they had three children: Tiphaine, Sebastien and Laurence.

Catherine Auziere, the supposed mother of Brigitte Macron's children, also exists and lives in Normandy as of this writing. Contrary to the allegations, she never had children. She is married to Jean-Louis Auziere, the uncle of Brigitte Macron's late ex-husband.

The way Brigitte Macron and her now-husband, Emmanuel Macron, met was widely reported, including by Snopes. It happened in 1993, when she was a drama teacher and he was her 16-year-old high-school-junior student. The two became very close and he swore at 17 years old that he would marry her, which he did in 2007.

Lawsuits

Agence France-Presse reported in early 2022 that Macron, her brother and her three children sued Rey and Jegousse for invasion of privacy and violation of personality rights, which protect a person's right to control the use of their identity, voice, likeness, name and other identifiers. This lawsuit was dismissed in 2023 on the grounds that the complaint should have been for public defamation, according to AFP.

In parallel, Brigitte Macron and her brother also pressed charges for public defamation, AFP said. This criminal procedure was ongoing as of this writing.

Another criminal procedure in Normandy, which was was launched after Catherine Auziere pressed charges, resulted in the conviction of Rey and Jegousse, who were sentenced to a fine of 2,000 euros each. The judge also ruled they should cover the legal expenses of the Auziere couple, up to 3,000 euros for Catherine Auziere and 2,000 euros for her husband.

President Macron Fights Back

On March 8, 2024, Emmanuel Macron denied the rumor for the first time. His exchange with a journalist was caught on camera:

MACRON: There are small, daily gestures, upsets and humiliations that are unbearable and that continue to exist in the behavior of some people. There are fake information and made-up scenarios that people end up believing, and that upset you including in your private life. JOURNALIST: You are thinking of people who say that your wife is a man. MACRON: Yes, that's it. Truly, there are nutcases.

Other Baseless Allegations of Women Being Trans

Brigitte Macron is not the first high-profile woman to be targeted by rumors of being born a man. We've previously reported on similar claims regarding former U.S. first lady Michelle Obama and Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky.

These rumors are often rooted in misogyny, transphobia and homophobia. In the case of women who are married to politicians, the allegations often start during electoral campaigns in attempts to discredit their spouses in the eyes of voters. For example, the story about Obama being a trans woman first appeared in 2008, when her husband, Barack Obama, became the Democratic presidential candidate.

Sources:

'Actualites Andre-Louis Auziere'. Femme Actuelle, https://www.femmeactuelle.fr/bio/andre-louis-auziere. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

'Brigitte Macron : deux femmes condamnees pour avoir affirme que l'epouse d'Emmanuel Macron est un homme'. ladepeche.fr, https://www.ladepeche.fr/2023/02/15/brigitte-macron-deux-femmes-condamnees-pour-avoir-affirme-que-lepouse-demmanuel-macron-est-un-homme-11000376.php. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

'Brigitte Macron et Jean-Michel Trogneux, itineraire d'une infox delirante'. Le Monde.fr, 31 Mar. 2022. Le Monde, https://www.lemonde.fr/politique/article/2022/03/31/la-premiere-dame-et-jean-michel-trogneux-itineraire-d-une-infox-infamante_6119987_823448.html.

'Brigitte Macron revient sur les debuts de son couple et sa difference d'age avec Emmanuel Macron :"C'etait le bazar dans ma tete"'. Femme Actuelle, 16 Nov. 2023, https://www.femmeactuelle.fr/actu/news-actu/cetait-le-bazar-dans-ma-tete-brigitte-macron-revient-sur-les-debuts-de-son-couple-et-sa-difference-dage-avec-emmanuel-macron-2165853.

'Court Fines 2 Women for Spreading Lie That Brigitte Macron Was Born Male'. POLITICO, 15 Feb. 2023, https://www.politico.eu/article/brigitte-emmanuel-macron-fake-news-two-women-convicted-for-spreading-transphobic-rumors-about-brigitte/.

Faits & Documents. Faits & Documents, Apr. 2021, http://pressibus.free.fr/gen/trogneux/brigitte.pdf.

From Jean-Michel to Brigitte Trogneux, Lies at the Elysee. http://pressibus.free.fr/gen/trogneux/indexgb.html#intro. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Girard, Quentin. 'Macron gay ? La fabrique d'une rumeur'. Liberation, https://www.liberation.fr/france/2017/02/07/macron-gay-la-fabrique-d-une-rumeur_1546935/. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

INSANE. This Is The BIGGEST Political Scandal In Human History. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v81g1tldi4c. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Journal Covid-19 - Infos Paranoia. http://pressibus.free.fr/covid/index.html#16c. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

LaMagdeleine, Izz Scott. 'Michelle Obama Isn't a Trans Woman. Here's Why Some People Believe Otherwise'. Snopes, 17 Oct. 2023, https://www.snopes.com//news/2023/10/17/michelle-obama-is-trans/.

---. 'No Proof For Rumors That Katie Ledecky Had "Come Out" as Trans'. Snopes, 27 July 2023, https://www.snopes.com//news/2023/07/27/katie-ledecky-trans-rumors/.

Liles, Jordan. 'Is Emmanuel Macron's Wife One of His Former High School Teachers?' Snopes, 19 Dec. 2022, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/emmanuel-brigitte-macron-wife-teacher/.

Media, Prisma. 'Flashback  Brigitte Macron : retour sur la mort de son ex-mari Andre-Louis Auziere - Gala'. Gala.fr, 20 Dec. 2021, https://www.gala.fr/l_actu/news_de_stars/brigitte-macron-retour-sur-la-mort-de-son-premier-mari-un-an-apres_460947.

Reporter, Giulia Carbonaro US News. 'Macron Meets Biden: Why Europe's Relationship with U.S. Faces Tough Test'. Newsweek, 30 Nov. 2022, https://www.newsweek.com/macron-meets-biden-why-europe-relationship-us-faces-tough-test-1763425.

'VRAI OU FAUX. D'ou vient la rumeur complotiste qui remet en question l'identite de genre de Brigitte Macron ?' Franceinfo, 16 Mar. 2024, https://www.francetvinfo.fr/vrai-ou-fake/vrai-ou-faux-pourquoi-une-rumeur-circule-autour-de-l-identite-de-genre-de-brigitte-macron_6428563.html.

'Rumeurs transphobes: la justice annule une procedure intentee par Brigitte Macron'. Le Point, 8 Mar. 2023, https://www.lepoint.fr/politique/rumeurs-transphobes-la-justice-annule-une-procedure-intentee-par-brigitte-macron-08-03-2023-2511357_20.php.

StreetPress. 'Derriere la fake news " Brigitte Macron est un homme ", l'ombre du clan Le Pen'. StreetPress, https://www.streetpress.com/sujet/1649080404-derriere-fake-news-brigitte-macron-homme-clan-le-pen-chatillon-loustau-soral. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.
Muhammad Yunus speaks at the Global Citizen Festival concert in Central Park to end extreme poverty in New York City on Sept. 28, 2013. Yunus has been appointed head of Bangladesh's interim government. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus has been named head of Bangladesh's interim government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned earlier this week as the country became subsumed by a growing revolt.

The decision to appoint Yunus was made Tuesday night during a meeting to determine the make-up of the interim government between President Mohammed Shahabuddin and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement that has been behind the protests, the nation's Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha news agency reported.

Joynal Abedin, the president's press secretary, had told BSS that Shahabuddin had approved the proposal, adding that other members of the interim government will be finalized at a later date.

"The country is passing through a deep crisis and in order to resolve this problem, an interim government must form as soon as possible," Shahabuddin said, according to BSS.

The heads of the nation's three military divisions as well as other members of civil society participated in the meeting that ran from 7:30 p.m. local time Tuesday to 11:30 p.m.

The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement had earlier Tuesday called for Yunus to lead the government after they rejected the notion of a military-led administraiton.

"We will not accept any other government except the government proposed by the students and people," the student leaders said in a video message.

"We will not accept any military government, military-backed government or any B-team government formed with the associates of the fascists."

Considered the "banker to the poorest of the poor," Yunus was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for developing the micro-credit system of lending small amounts of money in the form of long-term loans to those suffering from poverty in an effort to lift their financial status.

Yunus' appointment comes after Hasina resigned on Monday and fled the country as protesters had stormed her residence in the capital Dhaka.

The protests began early July by Dhaka University students demonstrating against the government's quota civil service hiring system that reserves stable positions for relatives of veteran's who fought in the country's 1971 independence war.

The demonstrations, fueled by high unemployment, have been met with brutal force, resulting in some 300 killed, including at least 90 on Sunday alone.

On Tuesday, Shahabuddin had dissolved Parliament, paving the way for the interim government and for new elections to be held.

Bangladesh has also freed former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, a rival of the ousted prime minister and the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. The party said the decision was made following meetings on Monday between the chiefs of the three military services, leaders of various political parties and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

Tarique Rahman, the self-exiled chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, is also to return to the country soon, his party said, according to Dhaka Tribune.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  Ever want to visit Yellowstone, go to the Statue of Liberty crown, or walk around the New York stock exchange?

75 kids, including nine from New York, were selected for special free field trips. It was a dream come true thanks to the non-profit America 250.

More Local News

This initiative helps children across the country reach for their dreams by honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. Rosie Rios is America 250s chair and former treasurer of the U. S. and says her own story drives her to pay it forward.

12-year-old Aryan Saha from Lake Forest, California says this moment is a chance of a lifetime experience, meeting top executives at the Bank of New York, meeting the former U.S. Treasurer Rosie Rios, and going behind the scenes at the Federal Reserve.

Aryan is one of 75 young people chosen from thousands of entries around the country, who sent essays and videos describing what America means to them.

Its part of a new national program called Americas Fieldtrip, honorary co-chairs are former First Ladies Michelle Obama and Laura Bush and former presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush. One of the sponsors is the Bank of New York.

More Monica Makes It Happen

16-year-old Olivia Fontes from Brooklyn, a sophomore at La Guardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Art in NYC wrote a poem.

Out of 75 young people chosen, eight are from New York. And some of the winners got to see the Statue of Liberty, go behind the scenes at the Federal Reserve, and visit the Bank of New York.

This is just the beginning of several programs to come for kids, including America Gives partnering with Walmart. Here in New York City, there will be a ship parade next year.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
New nonstop flight in NE Ohio to vacation hotspot

AKRON-CANTON, Ohio (WJW)  Theres a new nonstop service from Northeast Ohio to a top Florida destination.

Breeze Airways is launching a new flight from Akron-Canton to Sarasota-Bradenton, starting Nov. 20.

Crikey! Witnesses spot alligator swimming in Lake Erie

The flight will be on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Were thrilled that Akron-Canton has been such a successful market for us and we continue to see more opportunities for growth, said David Neeleman, Breeze Airways Founder and CEO. For our Ohio Guests looking for another great warm weather destination this winter, Sarasota/Bradenton offers amazing beaches and much more.

Check out all the places Breeze travels from Akron-Canton 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.
North Jersey school survey should not have asked about religion or income, feds say

The Cedar Grove School District violated federal law by asking high schoolers to reveal information about their religion and income in a 2021 survey without prior written consent, the U.S. agency responsible for protecting student privacy has found.

The survey also asked questions about gender identity and race.

The district's survey had already come under scrutiny in November 2021, when New Jersey said the district violated state laws by not establishing that the survey was voluntary, and by not providing parents with an opt-out option or sufficient written notice.

After the district appealed, an assistant commissioner at the New Jersey Education Department upheld Administrative Law Judge Gail Cookson's ruling that the district had failed to get consent from parents.

Story continues below photo gallery.

High schoolers, middle schoolers and some in elementary grades took the survey, which was created in-district to assess equity and diversity issues in June 2021.

The Student Privacy Policy Office in the federal Education Department investigated the school district after a group of parents filed complaints with the state and the federal government saying Cedar Grove did not seek parental consent for the surveys.

It charged the Cedar Grove district with an entirely different violation than what the state had found.

Survey asked about religion and income

By asking students about religion and income, both of which are considered protected information for students attending schools that receive federal funds, the district had violated a federal law called the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment, said the letter from Frank Miller Jr., deputy director of the Student Privacy Policy Office.

In a July 26 letter to Anthony Grosso, the Cedar Grove schools superintendent at the time the complaints were filed, Miller asked the district to update and correct its policy on student surveys to be "fully consistent" with federal law, provide a copy of its annual notice to parents regarding their rights under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment, and give written assurance that it would train staff on privacy laws that apply to surveys before Sept. 30.

The Biden administration and the New Jersey Education Department are both saying little or nothing about the implication of the federal government's decision for the handling of student surveys in the state's 600-odd school districts, at a time when diversity, equity and inclusion programs are a hot-button issue and culture wars continue to drive political divisions.

America First Legal, an activist organization pushing back against liberal politicians, touted the letter as a "victory" for parents' rights. The group said on its website that it sued the Biden administration over a delay in responding to the complaints filed by the Cedar Grove parents three years ago. It did not respond to a request for comment.

Asked whether the letter signaled further guidance from the state to school districts, a U.S. Education Department spokesperson said, "We have nothing to add beyond the contents of the letter that have been posted online." It said the Student Privacy Policy Office does not discuss details of its investigations.

And a spokesperson for the state Education Department said only that it "confirms awareness" of the letter from the federal government.

The Cedar Grove School District also did not elaborate when asked to comment on the letter.

"As these events occurred prior to my arrival in Cedar Grove, and under a prior board, I do not have additional information to share or comment," said the district's new superintendent, Peter Turnamian, who started in April.

Turnamian was moving forward with "a renewed focus on creating supportive environments for all of our students, families and staff," he said in an email.

The parents who filed the complaints welcomed the letter from the government.

"The parents of Cedar Grove finally have been fully vindicated, as they knew from the very beginning that the surveys their children were compelled to take without their prior knowledge or consent violated both state and federal laws," said lead parent Patricia Montana.

Montana said also that she was "very grateful" that the state "quickly and fairly" adjudicated its complaint by issuing its ruling in November 2021.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Cedar Grove NJ school district survey violated law, feds say
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Police are investigating after two vehicles drove into the front entries of businesses in North Las Vegas.

On Wednesday, Aug. 7, at around 5:30 a.m., officers with the North Las Vegas Police Department responded to the 300 block of West Craig Road after reports that a vehicle drove into a business.

Arriving officers found a silver Hyundai Elantra that drove through the front entry of a business, which was closed at the time. According to police, no one was injured.

Through the investigation, police discovered that a black Kia Optima also drove through the front entry of a neighboring firearm business.

Detectives believe no items were stolen from either business.

No additional details were available at the time of publication.

Anyone who may have information about this crime is urged to contact the North Las Vegas Police Department by phone at 702-633-9111. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 702-385-5555, or on the Crime Stoppers 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 KLAS.
To hear Gov. Andy Beshear tell it, being considered as a vice-presidential pick by Kamala Harris was nothing more than an elaborate economic development scheme rather than a boost into the DC hemisphere.

I mean how many people in their lifetime are vetted to be a potential vice president running mate? he said in a sit-down interview with the Herald-Leader Wednesday.

But whats most important to me is how Kentucky got a seat at the national table and got hundreds of millions of dollars in positive coverage all over the country and all over the world ... Ive heard from companies in different parts of of the country that are potentially more interested in Kentucky.

So in the end of the day, my job was to represent Kentucky well, and Im excited that that weve seen the rest of the country looking up to us instead of looking down at us.

We could debate whether the ability to land zingers on MSNBC impresses major corporations looking for a place to move. Nonetheless, Beshear says hes back in Kentucky for good (which is news you can use until a potential Cabinet position comes calling).

He insists hes going to finish the next three-and-a-half years, and no, hes doesnt want to run for the US Senate races in either 2026 or in 2028. At least not now.

Im just not interested, he said. Not interested. Right now is probably the the only time in my life I havent know whats next. But its also the only time in my life Ive not been worried about it. This is a great job.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear speaks during an interview in the state Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024.

For now, its back to the boring but important work of policy here in Kentucky, and at the top of the list is more jobs, universal pre-K, and defeating Amendment 2, a constitutional amendment that would allow public school dollars to flow to private schools.

IlI plan to be very active and defeat amendment to public dollars or for public schools, he said.

The legislative GOP supermajority put the initiative on the ballot along with another constitutional amendment to ban people who arent citizens from voting, even thought that is already forbidden. But they figured that red meat plus a presidential election would get folks to vote yes, even though Kentuckians have shown themselves to be reluctant to change Kentuckys foundational document.

Thankfully, a constitutional amendment isnt Democrat or Republican, Beshear said.

I believe that when people across Kentucky know that this is going to take money out of their public school system  it doesnt add any more money, it takes it out of their public school and sends it to a private school thats most likely not even in their county or in their region that theyll vote against it. I believe that the support for public education in Kentucky crosses all party lines in our communities.

It just doesnt in our state legislature.

Universal pre-K should have the same, well, universal appeal. There is money to pay for it, businesses want it, parents need it, our dismal labor workforce numbers require it.

It should not be a political issue, he said. This is about being competitive, and its a big part of solving our childcare crisis.

He hopes to work with lawmakers in Frankfort to get legislation passed. As for the numerous complaints from Republicans that he wont work with them on anything, Beshear dismissed it as political theater.

All you have to do is look at the difference between what you see here in Frankfort where you get a lot of theater, and every other day that Im out in those individuals communities, where theyre standing next to me, saying that we wouldnt have gotten these new jobs without us working together.

Political theater or not, Republicans have effectively blocked Beshear from achieving things like teacher pay raises or universal pre-K. The solution to that problem would be trying to build back the state Democratic Party, a donkey increasingly on its last legs with every legislative elections.

Beshear sidestepped the idea that as the partys leader, he could help rebuild it from the bottom up. He thinks Democrats will pick up between two and five seats in the General Assembly in Novembers election.

But he also said he thinks Kentucky will follow a national trend of general frustration with divisive red vs. blue politics.

Youre asked to pick a side on everything from the car you drive to the beer you drink at the moment, he said. My election last November shows that people just want a better life ...And the desire to see things being less political is gonna open people up to voting in different ways or for the best candidate.

For now, Beshear will have to return to far less-glamorous matters than the veepstakes, such as a federal investigation into the states juvenile justice system, and as was revealed a few hours before our interview, an FBI investigation into the Addiction Recovery Care corporation, the largest network of addiction recovery centers in the state.

In his 2024 state of the commonwealth speech, Beshear called ARCs founder Tim Robinson an essential partner in the states battle to fight addiction.

I cant comment on details of a federal investigation, but we cooperate with all federal investigations, and its not unusual for there to be an investigation in the Medicaid space. It is highly regulated. And so there are it is it is common that there are investigations that are going on. ARC provides significant services throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the 46-year-old governor said.

And its important that we have both treatment and recovery services in each part of Kentucky. I dont think that that that means theres any presumption of guilt.
The market seemed underwhelmed by last week's earnings announcement from Restore plc (LON:RST) despite the healthy numbers. We did some analysis to find out why and believe that investors might be missing some encouraging factors contained in the earnings.

See our latest analysis for Restore

How Do Unusual Items Influence Profit?

Importantly, our data indicates that Restore's profit was reduced by UK9.9m, due to unusual items, over the last year. While deductions due to unusual items are disappointing in the first instance, there is a silver lining. When we analysed the vast majority of listed companies worldwide, we found that significant unusual items are often not repeated. And that's hardly a surprise given these line items are considered unusual. If Restore doesn't see those unusual expenses repeat, then all else being equal we'd expect its profit to increase over the coming year.

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 Restore's Profit Performance

Unusual items (expenses) detracted from Restore's earnings over the last year, but we might see an improvement next year. Because of this, we think Restore's earnings potential is at least as good as it seems, and maybe even better! And one can definitely find a positive in the fact that it made a profit this year, despite losing money last year. The goal of this article has been to assess how well we can rely on the statutory earnings to reflect the company's potential, but there is plenty more to consider. With this in mind, we wouldn't consider investing in a stock unless we had a thorough understanding of the risks. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Restore (1 can't be ignored) you should be familiar with.

Today we've zoomed in on a single data point to better understand the nature of Restore's profit. But there is always more to discover if you are capable of focussing your mind on minutiae. Some people consider a high return on equity to be a good sign of a quality business. 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.

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 nuclear weapons era is making a comeback, and experts say we're all not paying attention

Nuclear weapons are poised to once again take center stage, decades after the Cold War ended.

The US, threatened by a rising China, is being advised to consider an expansion of its nuclear forces.

Leading experts told BI that few in the public are paying attention the worrying trends.

In 2022, Congress formed the Strategic Posture Commission  a bipartisan team of 12 experts hand-picked to advise the US on what to do with its nuclear weapons.

These are rare. The only other time Congress created such a group was in 2008.

But China was a new concern. Western intelligence says Beijing has since 2020 launched a sudden expansion of its nuclear stockpile, amassing launchers and warheads without explanation.

Alarm bells were ringing in Washington. The Cold War was a stand-off between two nuclear superpowers, and the US now fears China is on a highway to becoming a third.

In its October 2023 final report, the 12-person Commission painted the situation as dire.

"The new global environment is fundamentally different than anything experienced in the past, even in the darkest days of the Cold War," they said.

The commissioners recommended that the US consider its first nuclear expansion since the Cold War, including more warheads, delivery systems, defenses, and launchers.

All of this underlines a deeper anxiety among leading experts that the international arena, fixated for decades on the post-9/11 war on terror, is now tilting relentlessly back to an era of nuclear build-up and brinkmanship.

Business Insider asked 10 nuclear scholars  including four Commissioners  and US-China relations experts on how the US should act.

They agreed that if global trends do not dramatically reverse, the world is poised to live under the shadow of nuclear threat again.

Several prominent arms control scholars have criticized the Commission's report, fearing an arms race that they feel is unnecessary and will escalate the risk of annihilating humanity.

But signs are showing that the US government feels a build-up may have to be considered. In a speech on Thursday, Vipin Narang, the Defense Department's senior official overseeing nuclear policy, said that "we now find ourselves in nothing short of a new nuclear age."

It's a looming future that some experts feel is being dismissed in the US, especially among younger generations born after the Soviet Union's collapse.

"All of the trend lines are going in the wrong direction. So I think we are moving toward a much more dangerous world than it is today," said James Acton, co-director of the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

"And it's certainly possible that in the future, it could be as dangerous, if not more dangerous, than the original Cold War," he said.

The Two-Peer Problem

At the crux of the US' concerns is what American leaders call the Two-Peer Problem.

The US is worried it will need to simultaneously counter two of its equals on the nuclear playing field, when it traditionally only had the power to fight one  namely, the Soviet Union.

Beijing is reported to be rapidly increasing its stockpile to an estimated 500 warheads in 2023, up from 400 in 2022.

China paraded its Dongfeng-41 intercontinental strategic nuclear missiles on the 70th anniversary of its government. Xinhua/Lan Hongguang via Getty Images

At that rate, China will have 1,550 warheads  putting it on par with US and Russian capabilities  by 2035.

That would be the Two-Peer Problem: A three-way tie that experts fear will shatter the past basis for nuclear negotiations.

A simple way to understand this dilemma is to look at the numbers.

The US and Russia previously agreed to limit arsenals to 1,550 deployed warheads each.

If China were to reach parity, Washington would want an arsenal matching Moscow's and Beijing's combined, or theoretically 3,100 warheads.

Russia and China are more likely to think the appropriate equilibrium is for everyone to deploy 1,550 warheads each. However, given their close ties, the US is unlikely to accept such an agreement.

With no common number to reach, the three powers will be prone to rushing to gain the upper hand, Acton said.

"Once this arms race really kicks off, I think it's going to be very, very, very hard to stop it," he added.

The race against 2035

By its calculations, Washington now has only 11 years to find and establish a solution by 2035. That's a short window for nuclear programs, which are generally rolled out over decades, not years.

"Decisions need to be made now," wrote the Commission.

The recommendations in its report included putting multiple warheads on one intercontinental ballistic missile (known as MIRV), building more B-21 stealth bombers, and basing nuclear weapons in the Indo-Pacific region.

The B-21 bomber is a new stealth aircraft designed to drop nuclear and conventional bombs. FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images

It also advised the US to look into more tactical nukes, which are lower-yield bombs that Russia stockpiles by the thousands. The report made no recommendations on numbers.

Rose Gottemoeller, one of the 12 Commissioners, emphasized to BI that the report only asked the US to begin planning for an expansion, not to pull the trigger on a build-up now.

"We have the opportunity between now and 2035 to try to get Russia back to the negotiating table and to get China to start talking to us about controlling nuclear weapons," said Gottemoeller, NATO's deputy secretary-general from 2016 to 2019 and the former US chief negotiator with Russia on nuclear programs.

Washington and Moscow held nuclear talks for decades during the Cold War and beyond, but China has not engaged in such discussion so far.

That's unacceptable to the US. "They're not obligated to agree to anything specific, but they are obligated to negotiate in good faith, and they have certainly not done that," said Marshall Billingslea, former US special presidential envoy for arms control and one of the 12 Commissioners.

In rare progress on nuclear talks, President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping met in San Francisco in late 2023, with one of the items on their agenda to ban AI from nuclear weapons. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/Getty Images

Russia, meanwhile, spent the last two years making nuclear threats over the war in Ukraine.

To scholars supporting a US nuclear expansion, the situation has deteriorated so drastically that the time to simply hope for negotiations has passed. America must act, they told BI.

"I think when the United States is strong, our adversaries think: 'Okay, this is dangerous. We don't want to get into a conflict with the United States,'" Matt Kroenig, a professor at Georgetown University's government studies department. He was also one of the 12 Commissioners.

"When the United States is weak, that's when you see aggression and violence," he added.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry and embassy in Washington did not respond to requests for comment sent by BI.

Not all experts are convinced

Scholars who disagree said the US is looking at the Two-Peer Problem incorrectly.

Nuclear weapons are widely understood as the ultimate defense against existential threats like invasion, and these experts say the US can maintain that even if it has fewer nuclear weapons.

"We should focus on keeping our nuclear arsenal survivable, safe, secure, and reliable," said Acton of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. "We don't need to compete with them numerically. It won't enhance deterrence to do so."

President George W. Bush announced the US' withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty, a major agreement from the Cold War, in 2001. Alex Wong/Getty Images

Francesca Giovannini, executive director of the Project on Managing the Atom at Harvard University's Kennedy School, said that while official US-China nuclear talks are frozen, academics and non-governmental organizations are still trying to keep the dialogue flowing.

However, she told BI that the White House's past moves, such as withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty in 2002, have sowed doubt in Beijing that the US will keep to its arms control commitments.

"These examples come back often in dialogue," she said. "In China, arms control is increasingly seen as a mechanism devised by the United States to constrain China's rising military power."

That has made talk of arms control an increasingly dangerous line for Chinese experts to defend in the domestic debate, Giovannini added.

"For many, the United States is a non-reliable interlocutor and a political mess, especially Congress," she said.

Lyle Goldstein, director of the China Initiative at Brown University, said that in China, senior strategists already believe Beijing's nuclear build-up is a response to US aggression, not the other way round.

"I said: 'Are you seriously thinking about limited nuclear war?' And they said yes, emphatically yes. They said: 'We are thinking about it because you are thinking about it,'" Goldstein said.

What will it cost taxpayers?

Greg Weaver, a former deputy director for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the fundamental argument for a nuclear expansion is that the US must show that it can credibly defend itself and its allies.

"If someone launched a large-scale attack on the United States, there's no question we would annihilate them in response," said Weaver, an advisor to the Commission.

"But that's not our strategy. We extend nuclear deterrence to about 35 countries in Europe and Asia. Credible extended deterrence requires different capabilities than it does to just deter attacks directly on the United States," he added.

Some scholars like Weaver have championed a few additions to US nuclear forces, such as a cruise missile that can deliver a warhead from a submarine.

But those additional programs come at a cost. The US is already estimated to spend $1.5 trillion in the next 30 years on modernizing its aging nuclear forces  which most experts agree must be done.

The Minuteman III, the US intercontinental ballistic missile, hearkens back to the Cold War and is being replaced by the modern Sentinel missile. USAF/Getty Images

Goldstein of Brown University fears that money will be siphoned from other pressing domestic interests.

"Schools and hospitals and high-speed rails and all the things that we'd like to have in our country. We don't have them. One reason is because we're spending trillions on nuclear weapons," he said.

David Kearn, who studied missiles for RAND and advised the Defense Secretary's office from 2016 to 2017, believes nuclear spending will distract from conventional weapons development.

In July, a congressional review found that the US was already unprepared to fight a war against either China or Russia.

"They're saying the sea-launched cruise missile would be $12 billion. That could be almost two attack submarines. I'll take the two attack subs, please," said Kearn, now an associate professor of politics at St. John's University.

Analysts like Weaver say the Pentagon only spends a small fraction of its annual defense budget on nuclear weapons, and that the US can reasonably achieve a more powerful nuclear deterrent with prudent spending.

"We can do it if it's the priority," said Rebeccah Heinrichs, one of the 12 Commissioners and director of the Hudson Institute's Keystone Defense Initiative. "But if climate change, for example, competes with the priority to maintain the peace and deter China and Russia, it will prevent us from doing it."

'That's ancient history'

Despite growing signs of an uncontrollable arms race, several experts said they feel public focus on the issue has been strangely absent.

"I think it's generational," Kroenig said. "Even when I was in graduate school in the early 2000s, I had many of my advisors saying: 'Nuclear weapons? That's a Cold War issue. That's ancient history. Study something relevant like terrorism or insurgency.'"

Giovannini said organizations studying nuclear weapons are struggling to recruit young analysts and students. "They are more interested in the artificial intelligence space than nuclear weapons," she said.

As 2035 approaches, experts can see a future with three nuclear superpowers and almost zero negotiation.

"I'm afraid unless we can get talks on track, we will be back to where we were in the 1950s," said Gottemoeller. "When governments simply weren't willing to talk to each other about this."

"And what did it produce?" she said. "A severe crisis. The Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, when we came to the brink of nuclear annihilation."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Numbers show mental health crisis among first responders

PRINCETON, WV (WVNS)  First responders frequently see the worst days of peoples lives and care for the people going through trauma.

Local law enforcement honored at the WV Coalfields Highway Safety Program Awards Banquet

But who cares for the first responders who see and suffer through traumatic events sometimes several times a day?

Good mental health is crucial for everyones wellbeing.

However, issues can arise within anyones mind  especially after a traumatic event.

First responders witness traumatic events far more frequently than your average person, so it makes sense that the First Responder Foundation reports they have a higher risk of mental health issues.

Seeing the worst days of peoples lives takes its toll on those who respond to the situations, and getting first responders the help they need can be challenging.

Candace Nelson, Senior Divisional Director for Southern Highlands, said there is a lot to consider before helping.

You have to be aware of their culture and you have to be aware of the things they actually see on a daily basis. Those critical incidents really affect their mental health. Sometimes, theyre resistant to get treatment services, said Nelson.

Nelson said 77% of firefighters require mental health help, and law enforcement officers are more likely to die by suicide than they are to die in the line of duty.

That is why Southern Highlands has created partnerships with Princetons fire and police departments to provide these services.

Princeton Fire Department Fire Chief Charlie Croy said they rely on each other for support as well.

Just because it may be a police matter to start with doesnt mean that necessarily that we will not be involved at some point during the call. And then, so now, you have what started out as a police matter is now a fire and EMS issue as well. So, we do end up on a lot of the same calls, dealing with the same issues, explained Chief Croy.

Chief Croy said after responding to these calls it is important to his team to look after their fellow first responders.

He said he advises them not be afraid to ask them if they are okay.

Nelson agrees and said for her part, time is also a vital aspect of providing that care.

Theres a lot of research coming down from Critical Incident Stress Management teams saying that you have to get these things done within 48 to 72 hours for them to be the most beneficial to first responders, said Nelson.

More than $1 million announced for West Virginia emergency services by Senator Manchin

Nelson said Southern Highlands Critical Incident Response Team offers several options for assistance after a critical incident.

These can range from casual debriefings to arranging individual therapy sessions.

All of the options are designed to give our first responders the help they not only need but deserve for the vital role they play in our day-to-day mental wellbeing.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
NEWARK, N.J. (PIX11)  A New York man was on his way to France on Tuesday when he was arrested at Newark International Airport for traveling with a gun, according to officials.

The Westchester was caught with a handgun and a magazine loaded with five bullets, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

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When planning for a flight, especially an international flight, travelers really need to pay attention to the items that they have inside their carry-on bags, explained Thomas Carter, TSAs Federal Security Director for New Jersey. Carrying a gun into an airport checkpoint introduces risks to everyone in the area.

According to the TSA, passengers are allowed to carry firearms in checked baggage when traveling throughout the U.S. if they are unloaded and packed in a hard-sided locked case. The gun should be locked in the case and declared at the airline check-in.

In addition to being arrested, the man also faces a $15,000 fine. It remains unclear if the TSA will issue the penalty.

This is the 12th gun seizure at Newark Airport this year.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can 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.
NY officials want to ease buffer rule to open more pot shops: They must be stoned

Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks during a press briefing and public safety announcement in the Bronx.

Gov. Kathy Hochuls cannabis regulators are considering loosening the rules to allow more licensed pot shops to open in city neighborhoods  a half-baked idea that immediately ignited not-in-my-backyard opposition.

The current rule requires a 1,000-foot buffer between cannabis shops, but state officials revealed Tuesday they are now weighing a public convenience and advantage waiver  even though they have yet to determine what the criteria requirements would be.

They must be stoned, Queens city Councilman Robert Holden told The Post  only half in jest.

The states plan surfaced during a cannabis-control-board meeting  and comes just as New York City and New York authorities had been starting to make a dent in padlocking hundreds of illegal pot stores.

Were in bizarro world, said Holden, whose borough has been particularly plagued by illicit marijuana shops.

Gov. Kathy Hochuls cannabis regulators are proposing an easing of a buffer rule to allow more marijuana shops. ZUMAPRESS.com

If anything, the state should be lengthening the buffer zone between pot stores, not cramming more into communities, the pol said.

One cannabis store for a commercial strip is enough, Holden said.

But cannabis-industry sources said state officials are being pressured to ease the buffer restriction by frustrated applicants waiting for approval to open cannabis dispensaries, after a disastrously slow roll-out by the Hochul administration.

The state also could generate more tax revenue by opening more weed stores.

There are now 156 licensed cannabis dispensaries in the state  75 in New York City and Long Island and 81 upstate.

The current rule requires a 1,000-foot buffer between cannabis shops, but state officials revealed Tuesday they are now weighing a public convenience and advantage waiver. Paul Martinka

The shuttering of illegal shops had gained steam earlier this year when Albany passed tougher measures to make it easier to padlock unlicensed cannabis stores and fueled a relatively effective crackdown by Big Apple Mayor Eric Adams.

There is currently a 1,000-foot buffer between stores in municipalities with more than 20,0000 people and a 2,000-foot limit for communities with fewer than 20,000 residents.

To potentially walk those efforts back now is lunacy, critics said.

A licensed cannabis operator vowed to file a lawsuit against the state for attempting to change the rules.

The states plan surfaced during a cannabis-control-board meeting  and comes just as New York City and New York authorities had been starting to make a dent in padlocking hundreds of illegal pot stores. Paul Martinka

This is a terrible idea, Osbert Orduna, owner of The Cannabis Place in Middle Village, Queens, told The Post.

Flooding a neighborhood is not the solution. I will lead a coalition to sue the state.

Orduna, who heads trade groups representing disabled veteran and Hispanic cannabis operators, said easing the 1,000-foot buffer rule could cannibalize business instead of growing the budding industry.

State officials emphasized they will seek public input  including from their own cannabis advisory committee  before making any changes to the buffer rules.

The shuttering of illegal shops had gained steam earlier this year when Albany passed tougher measures to make it easier to padlock unlicensed cannabis stores and fueled a relatively effective crackdown by Mayor Eric Adams. James Keivom

OCM [the state Office of Cannabis Management] is in the process of developing guidance to establish the criteria under which to consider requests for public convenience and advantage, the agency said in a release after the board meeting.

Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed on how to submit comments on the proposed regulation and guidance to ensure their voices are heard. This initiative ensures an adaptive and responsive regulatory approach, fostering a dynamic and equitable cannabis industry in New York.
NYCs outdoor dining era is over: Fewer than 3,000 restaurants apply for sidewalk seats under new rules

During the dark days of the pandemic, diners in New York City hoping to enjoy something similar to a typical restaurant experience were introduced to a "stop the spread" friendly compromise: outdoor dining sheds.

The small, enclosed dining spaces became popular while Covid-19 was tearing through the nation and helped restaurants stay afloat during the social distancing days. But now a new city program threatening hefty fines may see the majority of the sheds go the way of bespoke Etsy face masks and ivermectin shills.

Saturday was the final day for restaurants in New York City to apply for its new "Dining Out NYC" program.

Restaurants that have not registered with the program that continue to operate dining sheds will be fined $500 for their first offense, and an additional $1,000 for each additional offense until the sheds are removed.

Mayor Eric Adams and the City Council reached a deal in May that made outdoor dining a permanent fixture but with several requirements standardizing the spaces and regulations when they can be erected on the city's streets and sidewalks.

A spokesperson for the Department of Transportation, which is overseeing the program, said in a statement that fewer than 3,000 restaurants have applied for the program as of Saturday afternoon, Gothamist reports.

Workers demolish the outdoor dining shed attached to Ruffian Wine Bar, Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in New York. The final day for restaurants to register for Dining Out NYC, a new city program regulating outdoor dining spaces, went into effect on August 3, but fewer than 3,000 restaurants in the city are participating (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

During the pandemic, approximately 13,000 restaurants were participating in the city's Open Restaurants outdoor dining program.

The new rules require restaurants seeking outdoor dining spaces like the sheds to pay for separate revocable consent and license fees. The latter is good for four years and costs $1,050 for a roadwalk or a sidewalk cafe, or $2,100 to license both.

The revocable consent fee varies based on the location and size of the outdoor space.

Previously, outdoor dining spaces varied in size and shape. Some restaurants erected small, wood-framed structures decorated with string lights, while others employed egg-like plastic bubbles to shield guests from others' airborne particulates.

Dining Out NYC will force a standardized design for all future outdoor dining structures and sidewalk dining. Under the new plan, fully enclosed spaces will be prohibited, while umbrellas, awnings and other coverings that can be easily torn down are encouraged.

A pedestrian stops on the sidewalk beside the outdoor dining shed at Caffe de Martini, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in the Brooklyn borough of New York. New outdoor dining regulations that will see many of the street and sidewalk enclosures disappear went into effect in New York City on August 3, 2024 (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Outdoor dining sheds will also only be permissible between April 1 and November 29 going forward.

That's going to be a problem for some restaurants, as they'll be required to tear down and store the sheds during the off-season. John Rodriguez, a Brooklyn restaurant owner, told Gothamist that storage costs were going to be a "big factor" for him going forward under the new plan.

He said he still planned to keep the outdoor dining area because, despite the costs of the new regulations, the spaces brings his Dos Hermanos restaurant more customers.

For other restaurants, like Manhattan's Indochine, the new standardized designs required by the city will be a marked downgrade from their current flashy outdoor cabana.

Jean-Marc Houmard, one of Indochine's owners, told the New York Times that the restaurant spent approximately $80,000 building their swanky black and red-trimmed cabana. He said he wanted the space to "look like a little bit of a tropical fantasy outside of the restaurant." Now he'll need to invest in umbrellas if he wants to continue operating a covered outdoor dining space.

Houmard told the Times that his fantasy cabana will soon be little more than scrap.

Unfortunately its just going to go to a dumpster, he said.

City officials have insisted that the plan will overall be better for both residents and restaurant owners under the new guidelines.

The program that sprang up out of necessity has matured, deputy mayor for operations Meera Joshi told the New York Times. Now we have standards to ensure that all outdoor dining structures are beautiful and well-maintained, and that they work with our overall streetscape to transform what it feels like to be outside in New York City for the better.

She said the guidelines would ensure there would be "no more shabby sheds" dotting city streets.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  The tri-state area is still days away from a storm-free forecast.

Tropical Storm Debby is expected to bring heavy rain to New York City over the next few days.

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NYC Emergency Management deployed drones in areas of the Big Apple prone to flooding to warn residents and urge them to vacate lower-level homes.

At least 11 people drowned in lower-level homes in 2021 during rain remnants of Hurricane Ida.

Ground stops were issued for all three major New York City and New Jersey airports on Tuesday. They were lifted Wednesday morning.

Heavy rain could also cause trouble for mass transit. The MTA has reevaluated some structural issues, even elevating entrances at some stations, after subway stations flooded last September.

The agency said its gearing up for potentially severe weather this week.

We pre-position a ton of equipment, especially those mobile special pumps, we are making sure there are tons of chainsaws all around for when the trees goes down, so we are ready to deal with that condition, MTA CEO and chairman Janno Lieber said. We cleaned all the drains out, so we dont get any backups. And we deal with areas that have a history that deal with problems when theres torrential rainfall. So, we are ready to go and the usual preparations are underway.

MTA leadership is calling for additional infrastructure improvements so its pump system can handle major rain events and pump out the water those storms bring.

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.
NEW YORK  The medical services company with a nearly half-billion-dollar contract to feed, house and care for thousands of migrants in New York City overcharged the city by millions for vacant hotel rooms and security guards, according to an audit released Tuesday by NYC Comptroller Brad Lander.

The audit found that 80% of the $13.8 million paid to the company, DocGo, during May and June 2023 should be recouped by the city. Among the wasted funds, the report concluded, is $1.7 million in nearly 10,000 unused hotel room nights during that time period and unauthorized security services that were overpaid to the tune of $2 million.

It really is atrocious mismanagement, Lander said, slamming Mayor Eric Adams choice to contract with the company at a Hells Kitchen press conference.

Lander, who announced his mayoral run last week, stated Tuesday that the audit wasnt a political move, but fell under his duty as the citys fiscal watchdog  but his audit drew a sharp rebuke from the mayors team.

Its very comfortable to sit in the bleachers and, you know, just be a detached spectator, but when you are running a city as complex as this, you have to be prepared, and thats what this team did and was able to do, Adams said of Lander on Tuesday.

The audit found DocGo-run shelters didnt staff enough caseworkers and social workers at hotels, as mandated by their contract with the city. In a survey of over 200 asylum seekers, 25% said they werent aware that they could enroll their children in school and 41% said they were unhappy with the food they were provided.

The audit reveals in excruciating detail that the citys Department of Housing Preservation and Development failed to conduct sufficient oversight of the contract  in a way that is costing taxpayers millions of dollars, Lander said.

In September 2023, when the $432 million contract was submitted to the Comptrollers Office, Lander denied it  citing multiple concerns including DocGos experience in providing emergency housing, a lack of clarity about where all the money was going and vendor selection and responsibility. Mayor Adams moved forward with the contract despite Landers objections, and Lander announced the audit shortly after.

At a City Hall press briefing later on Tuesday, Adams said the fact that his administration booked up what turned out to be too many hotel rooms was a matter of being prepared for the ongoing influx of migrants to the city.

When you got called in the middle of the night, You need 200 rooms, you know, a bus pulled in, you need 150 rooms, you need 300 rooms  you dont have time to call Motel Six, you better be prepared and thats what this team did, he said.

Liz Garcia, a spokesperson for the mayor, slammed the audit as outdated and wrong.

The comptroller can nitpick the first two months of an emergency contract over a year after the fact and long after new safeguards were put in place, but he cannot claim to have saved a single migrant family from sleeping on the streets, she said in a statement. We will continue to pay our partners for the work they do on behalf of the city, particularly amidst a humanitarian crisis.

New York City has been at the center of a migrant crisis since 2022, when a surge in asylum seekers arriving from the southern border began to overwhelm the citys shelter system. The city has opened more than 200 emergency shelters and spent over $4 billion in migrant services over the past two years.

There are currently around 65,000 migrants living in city shelters across the city.

HPD staff and its vendors worked around the clock, seven days a week, to make sure that the thousands of people suddenly on the citys doorstep were safe, sheltered, and fed, said Ilana Maier, a spokesperson for the department. When HPD made decisions quickly, it made them compassionately; and when procedures didnt yet exist and documentation wasnt available in the moment, HPD exercised good judgment rather than risking lives for bureaucratic steps.

DocGos contract in the city ended in May, and services are being handed over to a different company with an already existing contract with the city. The company did not respond to a request for comment.

_____

(With Chris Sommerfeldt)

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NYPD and ATF offer free training to media professionals on use of force

NYPD and ATF offer free training to media professionals on use of force

NEW YORK (PIX11)  After several incidents of deadly force used by law enforcement around the country, PIX11 News looked at what goes into training and policy when making split-second decisions.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New York City Police Department hosted a free, half-day, joint Use of Force Training class for media professionals.

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This interactive course provided PIX11 News with a comprehensive review of the legal, tactical, and physiological realities of police use of force incidents.

Law enforcement experts explained the legal standards by which police officers are judged in court according to U.S. Supreme Court case law.

During the course, Tuesday afternoon, police discussed in depth the human performance factors that affect every police officer and every suspect during violent encounters.

While no two encounters are the same, police officers nationwide have clear guidelines outlined by the U.S. Supreme Court with Case Law on what is justified and what is not.

The presentation portion of the course allowed attendees to experience the role of a law enforcement officer in a simulated encounter in which they needed to determine the use of force in real-time.

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The instructors also went over the Department of Justice policy, which states:

Law enforcement officers and correctional officers of the Department of Justice may use deadly force only when necessary, that is, when the officer has a reasonable belief that the subject of such force poses an imminent danger of death or serious physical injury to the officer or to another person.

The number one predictor of the use of force or how much force to use is the behavior of the individual they are interacting with, ATF Chief Paul Massock said.

The course covered different case laws and scenarios in hopes of helping the public better understand the decisions officers sometimes have to make.

The same course is offered to the general public to help clear up misconceptions.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Like results in many areas of Michigans rain-soaked Election Day, Tuesdays primary was mostly uneventful in Oakland County. No countywide incumbent was at risk of losing a primary.

Still, there were some key local results. Several incumbent county commissioners headed off challenges in their Democratic primaries. In Troy, a newcomer  an outspoken gadfly in city meetings  narrowly lost his bid for a City Council seat. Voters approved library millages in two cities, including Rochester Hills. And in Pontiac, voters overwhelmingly approved a new city charter, which supporters said would add momentum to Pontiac's renaissance.

Of the six countywide elected leaders in Oakland County, only incumbent water resources commissioner Jim Nash faced a primary opponent. With about 94% of precincts reporting, Nash had received 84,038 votes (68.01%), well more than double the 39,302 votes (31.81%) tallied for his opponent Jim Stevens in the Democratic primary. In the last general election, Stevens ran and lost as a Republican against Nash.

Even the incumbents prospective Republican opponents had few contested races, with two exceptions. In the Republican primary for Oakland County treasurer, three candidates sought the chance to take on incumbent Democrat Robert Wittenberg. With about 94% of precincts counted, Donna Blake with 32,148 votes (44.92%) led Susan Kuhn, who had 28,107 votes (39.28%), as well as Isaiah Hellner with 11,085 votes (15.49%). On the GOP side for water resources commissioner, also with 94% of precincts tabulated, Steve Johnson had 44,161 votes (64.08%), for a big lead over Steve Klein's 24,571 votes (35.65%), in their race to see who would oppose Nash this fall.

In primaries for county commission seats, longtime incumbent Democrat Dave Woodward, whose 1st District seat encompasses portions of Birmingham, Royal Oak and Troy, trounced challenger Charlie Gandy-Thompson. Woodward, who chairs the county board, drew 6,499 votes (82.25%) to 1,396 (17.67%) for Gandy-Thompson.

A far tighter contest between Democrats was in the 3rd District, covering Hazel Park, Madison Heights and a portion of Troy. Madison Heights Mayor Roslyn Grafstein challenged but was defeated by Commissioner Ann Erickson Gault, who was appointed to the seat last fall, after the death of veteran county commissioner Gary McGillivray of Madison Heights. Erickson Gault tallied 3,427 votes (51.84%) to Grafstein's 3,167 (47.91%).

Related to that race was a tight race in Troys only city election. This was a nonpartisan contest to fill the council seat that Erickson Gault vacated last year to take the empty seat on the county commission. In the Troy election, which was not a primary, newcomer Ed Ross lost to Councilman Hirak Chanda, who was appointed last fall to fill the opening created when Erickson Gault moved on to her county spot. Chanda tallied 6,765 votes (52.70%) to 6,045 for Ross (47.09%). Chanda will fill the seat for a term ending on Nov. 8, 2027.

In the Oakland County boards 10th District, which represents Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, portions of Waterford and West Bloomfield townships, and a western slice of Pontiac, incumbent commissioner Kristen Nelson of Waterford fought off a challenge in the Democratic primary by Keego Harbor Mayor Robert Kalman. Nelson won with 4,421 votes (63.57%) against Kalman's tally of 2,522 votes (36.27%).

More: 2024 Michigan primary election results

For the 16th District county commission seat, incumbent William Miller defeated Democratic challenger Sean C. Thomas in the primary for a district encompassing Farmington and portions of Farmington Hills. Miller received 5,131 votes (66.23%) to Thomas' tally of 2,600 votes (33.56%).

By a better than 2-1 margin, Pontiac voters approved a new charter to replace the one created in 1982. Voters cast a total of 3,084 yes votes (70.98%), while opponents registered 1,261 votes (29.02%). Supporters said that the new charter would make city operations more efficient, ethical and transparent. It also would make the city council president a full-time job, to balance the power of the city's full-time mayor.

In Rochester Hills, a strong majority of voters approved a millage increase to operate and improve the public library. Library leaders said the existing millage had not changed since it was passed in 1924, when the city wasnt a city. It was then largely rural Avon Township. Voters who said "yes" to the millage totaled 10,023 (65.73%), versus 5,226 who cast "no" votes (34.27%).

In Walled Lake a library renewal millage easily passed 764 to 307 (71.34% to 28.66%). And in Wixom, a renewal millage for city operations passed by 1,635 "yes" votes (78.87%) to 492 "no" votes (23.13%).

More: Oakland County primary results

In a key race to fill an open judicial seat at Oakland County Circuit Court, three lawyers vied in the non-partisan contest: Tricia Dare, Nicole Sophia-Calhoun Huddleston and Moneka Sanford. With 94% of votes counted, Dare had a significant lead with 76,346 votes (49.74%), while Huddleston had received 43,696 votes (28.47%), and Sanford had tallied 32,980 votes (21.49%).

Contact Bill Laytner: blaitner@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 2024 Oakland County primary results: Voters OK millages and incumbents
At around 1 a.m. on June 13, John Randal Tyson, the slim and boyish 34-year-old scion of the Tyson Foods empire, tried to level with the Fayetteville, Ark., police officer who just pulled him over for suspected drunk driving. Can I ask you a genuine preference? Tyson says in a bodycam video, one hand to his chest, perhaps in an effort to convey sincerity. Which is, like, if I get in trouble tonight, my life will be ruined.

The statement is not a question or a preference, and it sounds like the hyperbolic ramblings of a guy who has had too many Miller Lites (which Tyson says he was drinking that night, according to the police report obtained by Fortune). But its easy to understand why, in that moment, he felt doomed.

At the time, Tyson was CFO and chief sustainability officer at Tyson Foods, a $21 billion company founded by his great-grandfather and headquartered in adjacent Springdale, Ark. And his arrest in June was the second time hed been collared for an alcohol-related crime since becoming Tysons chief financial officer, and the youngest CFO in the Fortune 500, in 2022. In November of that year, just six weeks after he started the job, it was widely reported that Tyson was found sleeping in a strangers bed and charged with trespassing and public intoxication. (He eventually pleaded guilty and paid $440 in fines.) He was thought to be in line to become Tyson Foods CEO, but his two arrests in 19 months have now thrust his future at the meat processing giant into doubt.

My life is over, man, Tyson says in the video published online by an account called Arkansas Police Activity and labeled as University of Arkansas Police Department footage, as he awaits a breathalyzer test at the station. He tells the officer that he doesnt hold the arrest against him: Its on me. He eventually blows a .191, more than double the legal limit for blood alcohol content while driving, a detail that also matches the arrest report. F**k! he says, after signing a form to decline a second test.

He was able to keep his corporate job last time around, but this time Tyson Foods suspended the young executive that day and named Curt Calaway, an 18-year Tyson veteran, interim CFO, without indicating whether John Randal Tyson would return. They need a strong CFO on the job: Over the past two years, Tyson Foods has shuttered several meat-packing plants and laid off thousands of people. The cuts are part of a so-far successful bid to return to profitability in its chicken division and to offset losses in its beef business, its largest by revenue, as it deals with inflation. It has also recently begun to call itself a protein companyproducing meat, but also frozen breakfast sandwiches, deli meats, and plant-based burgers, sausages, and nuggets under various labels. Two years ago it took a minority stake in Protix, an innovative Dutch firm making insect meal used in animal feed.

Story continues

But John R. Tysons problematic behavior raises serious questions about leadership inside his familys Fortune 100 company, which processes an estimated one-fifth of all chicken, pork, or beef consumed in the U.S. At a time when nepotism and corporate nepo babies are squarely in the cultural crosshairs, how did the family justify putting a 32-year-old into the CFO job; why did it keep him there after his first arrest; and what happens next?

Too few people will have a say in those answers. Tyson Foods has built a board of mostly independent directors, and its CEO, Donnie King, is a veteran employee, not a family member. However, the Tyson family owns 99.9% of Tyson Foods Class B shares, giving them the lions share of voting rights at the firm. That tips the balance of power to John H. Tyson, known locally as Johnny Tyson, the companys 70-year-old chairman and John R. Tysons billionaire father.

Expectations for billionaires have changed, says a lifelong Fayetteville resident who has ties to the Tysons but asked to remain anonymous because of the familys influence in the region. It used to be that people reliably looked the other way when local business titans misbehaved, because families like the Tysons pour so much money into the community, he says. But people expect accountability now, he continues, and [t]heyre not averting their eyes.

Rise of the Tyson chicken dynasty comes with controversy

The signs that the Tysons have spent lavishly on the area are, in fact, everywhere. When you travel to the region, as I did in June, you cant miss them.

Take Fayetteville, a picturesque college town where red-brick buildings in the historic downtown have been turned into indie coffee shops, vinyl record stores, and minimalist boutiques selling brightly hued macarons. On the University of Arkansas campus, where John Randal was pulled over in June, five buildings are named for deceased Tyson family members.

Off-campus, the universitys golf teams home course is Blessings, a posh private club owned by Johnny, who also helped to convince his friend, revered basketball coach John Calipari, to lead the colleges Razorbacks team beginning next season. For this, an arena full of Razorbacks fans jumped to their feet applauding Tyson at a spring game. And at Hermans Ribhouse, a humble but historic Fayetteville institution, the back right corner of the restaurant is entirely dedicated to the Tyson family, with photos and memorabilia lining dark wood paneling.

But Tysonboth the company and the familyhas faced criticism and scrutiny. In the past few years alone, activists have blasted Tyson Foods for a myriad of shortcomings: mistreating plant workers, using aggressive tactics to control its livestock suppliers, dumping wastewater from its plants into waterways, and working with suppliers who abuse animals, and others who allegedly hire migrant children as cleaners.

Tyson has responded to reports maligning operations in its slaughterhouses. In 2021, a Tyson Foods company spokesperson said, "Our top priority will always be the health and safety of our people." The meat processor also told PBS that a negative report on its wastewater practices failed to state that the company complies with EPA regulations and is certified by the Water Alliance. About an undercover video showing the cruel treatment of animals at one of its suppliers, the company said, "We were disturbed by what we saw in the video," and stopped doing business with the farm in question. Tyson, which prohibits child labor, has also told the New York Times that it was not aware of child labor in its supply chain (Perdue, a competitor, faced the same allegations) and that it plans to increase the share of Tyson plants that use in-house cleaners.

Despite the company's official statements, Magaly Licolli, executive director of the activist group Venceremos and an organizer who works with Tyson plant employees to help them secure better conditions, says the family behaves as if they own the state.

Outside of the Tyson Foods world headquarters on Saturday, July 30 , 2021 in Springdale, Ark. Credit: Brett Deering for The Guardian  Guardian / eyevine Contact eyevine for more information about using this image: T: +44 (0) 20 8709 8709 E: info@eyevine.com http://www.eyevine.com

Early in the pandemic, the company helped draft the executive order that exempted meat packers from public safety regulations meant to protect workers, according to a U.S. House COVID subcommittee report published in 2021. The report found that an estimated 59,000 employees at the five largest U.S. meat-packing companies fell ill with COVID, and 269 people died, including 151 people at Tyson plants alone. "This collaboration is crucial to ensuring the essential work of the U.S. food supply chain and our continued efforts to keep team members safe," a company spokesperson at the time told ProPublica.

In one of the most appalling pandemic-era corporate news stories, seven Tyson Foods managers at a plant in Waterloo, Iowa, were fired in 2020 for setting up a winner-takes-all wager pool in which managers and supervisors placed bets on how many line employees would contract the virus at work. Tyson Foods investigated and said in a statement, "The behaviors exhibited by these individuals do not represent the Tyson core values, which is why we took immediate and appropriate action to get to the truth."

Still, Licolli cites such instances as evidence of the familys sense of entitlement. They act like that in many ways, she says.

And yet, for others, Tyson Foods is an almost quintessential example of an American success story.

Tyson Foods founder John William Tyson was a struggling farmer from Kansas when he moved his family to Springdale in 1931 looking for new opportunities, according to the official company origin tale. In the beginning, he trucked fruits and vegetables and live chickens from Arkansas to markets in Chicago, plowing his profits back into buying more chickens, and later, more trucks. In time, he came to focus on chicken alone, and added on a chicken feed business, then a hatchery. During World War II, the young company benefited from a U.S. government decision to leave chicken off the list of rationed goods.

Through a series of acquisitions in the 1970s and 1980s, John Williamss son Don, the second-generation CEO, put the company on a path to become the largest U.S. meat-packing firm. Today, it runs more than 100 processing plants around the U.S. and operates in 140 countries. It employs roughly 140,000 people, the vast majority in the U.S. In northwest Arkansas, Tyson Foods is one-third of a trifecta of Fortune 500 companies and major employers: Walmart, Tyson Foods, and trucking giant J.B. Hunt; its the third largest employer in the state, according to a 2020 report by the Arkansas Economic Development Corporation. As a brand, Tyson is associated with store-bought frozen chicken nuggets (some in dinosaur shapes), but the conglomerate also supplies chicken, beef, and pork to schools, grocery stores, the military, restaurants, and fast-food chains, including McDonald's.

View this interactive chart on Fortune.com

Don Tyson, who died in 2011, was a larger-than-life character whose hedonism was legendary in Arkansas. In corporate photographs, Tyson often appears in company-issue factory uniforms, as if he might debone chickens between meetings, but he had a penchant for yachts he called fishing boats, the family acquaintance explains, and expensive tastes. He also had an exceptionally close and much-examined relationship with former President Bill Clinton, a former Arkansas governor.

Don Tyson, chief executive officer of Tyson Foods Inc., says his $10,000 per year skybox leased at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, AK., will not serve liquor. Whatever the university policy is, thats our policy, he said on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 1985 in Springdale, Arkansas. University of Arkansas officials say alcohol is prohibited on UA property. (AP Photo/Danny Johnston)

In his book The Meat Racket: The Secret Takeover of Americas Food Business, about Tyson Foods and the many devastating effects of consolidation in the meat industry, investigative journalist Chris Leonard describes Don as a married CEO who lived like an eligible bachelor until finally settling down and having a child with one of his girlfriends, all without ever divorcing his wife. Don was quite open about his young girlfriends around Fayetteville, said the family acquaintance.

But Don was also beloved at the company, where he regularly visited plant workers (by contrast, a local worker told me she had never seen Johnny or John Randal) and established a band of loyal followers among the companys executive leaders. Unlike his son, he was the kind of person who could get angry and then get over it, says Leonard, calling Don comfortable in his own skin.

Dons son Johnny Tyson is credited with further diversifying the companys portfolio, and winning a bidding war for beef giant IBD with a $3 billion offer. That deal ultimately transformed the company, making it the worlds largest meat producer for a time.

But while Johnny is known today as a buttoned-down businessman and Christian conservative, fond of using some of his estimated $2.7 billion in net worth to support politicians like former governor Asa Hutchison, who signed a near-total abortion ban into law three years ago, longtime locals also remember his wayward youth. As a college student, he lost his faith in God, grew a ponytail, and began drinking and using drugs, he explained to the New York Times in 2001. His drug habit continued even after he started working at Tyson Foods after college. From 1984, when he joined Tyson's board, to 1990, he was addicted to cocaine and alcohol. His friends knew it, his family knew it and, apparently, so did the company, the Times reported. (I have friends who snorted coke with him next to a copy of Winning Through Intimidation, the family acquaintance told Fortune.)

CHINA - OCTOBER 12: John Tyson, chairman of Tyson Foods, Inc. shakes hands with Li Xumin, chairman of Shandong Xinchang Group, at a news conference in Weifang, Shandong province, China, on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2008. Tyson Foods Inc., the largest U.S. meat processor, signed an agreement to buy 60 percent of Shandong Xinchang Group, a poultry producer based in eastern China, Jim Rice, Tyson's manager for greater China said. (Photo by Adam Dean/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Johnny stopped drinking in 1990, the year his son was born, and was thus able to stay at the firmotherwise they would have thrown me to the wolves, he told the Times. Ten years later, he was named CEO, a position he held for six years. He has been chair since 1998, and has developed a reputation for being an extremely difficult, volatile, and explosive boss, three people who have worked with him in a professional capacity told me. Tyson Foods has appointed a new CEO four times since 2016, with one chief executive bailing within one year.

Tyson company succession

As the son of the chair, John Randal Tyson naturally attracted attention at the family-owned company, where some questioned whether he deserved the job of chief sustainability officer he was given in 2019 at age 29.

In the press release about his appointment, then-CEO Noel White said that his new hire had a passion for sustainability and that he had spent five years shadowing board meetings. The announcement touches on John Randals experience teaching at the University of Arkansass Sam M. Walton College of Business, where he led an honors class studying leadership through the eyes of classic novels like The Great Gatsby and Siddhartha, as he would explain in a To Dine For podcast two years later. But there is no mention in the release of any experience working in sustainability.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 21: John R. Tyson, EVP, Strategy and Chief Sustainability Officer, Tyson Foods; speaks on stage during The Fight for Food: Value Chains and Partnerships at The 2022 Concordia Annual Summit - Day 3 at Sheraton New York on September 21, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Leigh Vogel/Getty Images for Concordia Summit)

My entire life and career, I have known that I want to be involved in some leadership way with Tyson, Tyson also told the podcast, but it was always hard, when I was younger, to know exactly what that was going to be.

Tyson has an education that suits a future C-suite executive. He studied economics at Harvard University, graduating in 2012, then worked as a private equity and venture capital investor in investment banking at JPMorgan Chase in New York, where property records still list him as the resident of a $7 million condo in the West Village. In his late twenties, he studied at Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he finished his MBA in 2018.

Near the end of 2021, John Randal became president of Tyson Ventures, the poultry companys corporate venture arm that has backed a series of meat alternative companies like Beyond Meat or MycoTechnology, though its unclear how involved John Randal has been in the day-to-day. Three founders of startups that Tyson has backed either told Fortune that they worked with senior director Rahul Ray or understood that Ray oversaw most of the funds daily operations and investments. John Randal is still listed as Tyson Ventures president on the companys website.

Three years into his sustainability job at Tyson, the company added the CFO title to his remit. His quick ascension to a critical job often seen as No. 2 in a corporate hierarchy raised eyebrows. Although a few famous publicly traded family-owned firms like News Corp. (owned by the Murdochs) or LVMH (owned by the Arnault family) have groomed family members for top jobs, its more common for companies to separate family power and wealth from the day-to-day operations of a firm. (See Walmart and Ford.)

Claudio Fernandez-Araoz, a former top Egon Zehnder consultant and now a guest lecturer at Harvard University, has studied succession planning for decades. He explains that the largest family-run firms are better at succession planning, possibly for the same reasons that they are more resilient: Their managers tend to think long-term and are deeply invested in, and motivated to protect, the familys wealth and reputation. As such, the worlds most successful family firms look for internal leaders who have the passion and competence for the CEO role, regardless of their last names, Fernandez-Araoz has found. There is always a presence of at least one but up to three key family members who are heavily involved. They don't need to be the CEO or even the chair, he says. Instead, they hold roles that fit their talents and experience, while their presence and their values infuse the organization. They are like the sun in the solar system that attracts the planets and keeps them in their orbits, he says.

Growing up Tyson

Both John and his sister Olivia, who is two years his junior, had been invited to attend board meetings since they were 13 or 14, Johnny Tyson explained in an online interview with the hiring firm N2Growth in 2020. The senior Tyson felt it was important for the kids to be exposed to the boards discussions and functions and to start developing confidence in their business instincts, he said. He wanted his children to get comfortable with people and older people because one day the heirs might be making big decisions. Trying to tell a 50-year-old what to do is kind of intimidating, he says.

(Johnny and his wife divorced when John Randal was a child. In the To Dine For podcast, John Randal says he remains close with his mother, Kimberly Tyson, who doesnt work at the firm. She cares about me as her son, and so having that kind of relationship with her is a super important part of my life.)

But the elder Tyson also claims he had always given his children the freedom to reject a seat at the company table. Johnny says he told his children that they could work toward becoming CEO, or join the board, or, he said, maybe you just want to go to the Bahamas and run a bar on a beach.

So, if you want to do that, you have no say in the company, he continued. You have no say at the board level. You'll just get part of your dividend, and it'll be sent to you, and you'll have a good life.

Olivia, who has chosen to run her family firms philanthropic arm, the Tyson Family Foundation, and John Randal are certainly living a comfortable life, far removed from their great-grandfathers humble chicken farm. The fourth-generation Tysons run in the same social circles as movie stars and fellow moneyed millennials, Fortune learned. John Randal has been seen around Fayetteville with actor Robert Downey Jr., and with the actress Emma Roberts, niece of film superstar Julia Roberts, and daughter of actor Eric Roberts. Earlier this month, in a story about Roberts' engagement to Cody John, the New York Post published a group photo of John Randal with Roberts and her new fiance. John Randal was not identified in the image, which has since been removed, but the caption explained that mutual friends introduced Roberts and Cody John. Just days after John Randals DWI arrest, Olivia married Alexander Stoclet, a descendant of the financier Adolphe Stoclet, who commissioned Le Palais Stoclet in Brussels.

In fact, in the bodycam video, John Randal told the police officer who stopped him that he had been socializing with friends in town for his sister's wedding. My sisters getting married on Saturday. Its like were going to blow up the whole situation, John Randal said, sitting at the police station, holding his head in his hands.

A matter of optics

A DWI arrest is not an automatic firing offense for most employers, says Peter Rahbar, an employment lawyer who runs an eponymous firm in New York. But a conviction or guilty plea could be, especially for a C-suite staffer, he adds. A lot of employees think that executives can get away with a lot of things, but the truth is that executives are held to several different standards for their conduct, and often are held to a higher level of scrutiny.

Tyson Foods professed standards are also unambiguous. Its code of conduct states that Tyson employees must not engage in conduct that may raise questions as to Tysons honesty, integrity or otherwise cause embarrassment to the company," according to the website. A Tyson plant worker of several years who asked to remain anonymous said of John Randals charges, If the workers did that, we'd get fired.

Leonard, the author, speculates that the Tysons wouldnt worry much about how investors, employees, or anyone else would perceive a decision to put Tyson back in the CFO job, and thats part of the reason that he has landed in trouble. He has grown up as royalty, with his father having total control of one of the largest organizations in the U.S., he says. He has not had a lot of opportunities to be held accountable.

At least in the bodycam video of his arrest, John Randal says that hes hoping to get through the booking process quickly but adds that hes not asking for special treatment. I would also assume based upon your last name, the officer offers, they might try to get you out of here real quick. He promises to put in a good word for John Randal because hes been exceptionally compliant.

I appreciate you saying that, John Randal responds, because the last couple of times Ive been here I got no acknowledgement of that.

With reporting from Jessica Mathews

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Events happen in everyones life that disrupt their existing narrative. You lose a parent or a partner; you wed, or you have a baby. In an instant, you no longer think about yourself as you did. From that point forward, you are a different person.

Similar patterns appear in the history of nations as well. An earthquake destroys a village, or a terrorist attack elevates feelings of vulnerability; new technologies appear, or the government is swept away. Ive been thinking about the shifting American narrative as the November election draws near. Change is in the offing.

Ron McAllister

President Joe Bidens July 21st announcement that he would not stand for re-election was one of those moments when the national narrative changed. Passing the torch to the next generation is the political equivalent of tectonic plates shifting. The ascendancy of Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Partys standard bearer changes the country for the better; her election will do so even more.

If she loses to Donald Trump, you can expect a different kind of historic disruption. Hes already told us (December 5, 2023) that he will be a dictator on day one. Last month, he told a gathering of his devoted fans: You got to get out and vote. In four years, you dont have to vote again. Well have it fixed. (July 26, 2024).

If you read the campaign promises he has made, you will see the sort of country we will have if he wins. The Trump-47 playbook is detailed in the 900-plus page tome Project 2025: Presidential Transition Project developed by the Heritage Foundation. The whole document is available online. Read it, and you will understand better what is at stake.

Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris delivers remarks before departing George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas, on August 1, 2024, as she returns to Washington, DC.

Project 2025 paints a dystopian picture of America today: a country ravaged by crime, trampled by immigrants, dominated by foreign interests, burdened by environmental regulation, corrupted by government bureaucrats, and destroyed by diversity initiatives. Its a grim picture that completely fails to describe the country I know and love.

A prefatory note (page xiv) written by Paul Dans, Project 2025s former director, summarizes the worldview behind it all: The long march of cultural Marxism through our institutions has come to pass. The federal government is a behemoth, weaponized against American citizens and conservative values, with freedom and liberty under siege as never before. Thats simply ridiculous.

The Observer: York Hospital's fundraising campaign has heart

Standing against all that is Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic candidate for president. Her selection as the person to stand up to Trump and his party will be made official at her partys Chicago convention later this month (August 19-22).

Winning is not going to be easy owing to a campaign season colored by misleading mass media, outright lies, racism, sexism and violence. What has struck me is that for all the Project 2025 hot air about family values, self-governance, national sovereignty and the blessings of liberty, it is the nomination of Kamala Harris that rings true about America.

The Declaration of Independence declares that all men are created equal. This was a revolutionary idea in 1776, and it remains so today. The nomination of Kamala Harris embodies that idea  understood in ways that were not understood 250 years ago. All men means all people regardless of gender, race, social status, accumulated wealth, or parental history. The nomination of Kamala Harris is a promise made to the nation, and I, for one, happily embrace it.

I have watched Trumps campaign against her and have thought: is the former president really the best we can do? Given his impeachments, indictments, convictions and blatant acts of corruption, which are his hallmark and his lifestyle, is this someone who should be allowed to succeed Joe Biden and the other honorable presidents before him? The mans character is plainly visible in his rambling public speeches and all-caps social media rants.

Are Trumps angry, vengeful, and dishonest tirades what we want from our leaders? Kamala Harris is the promise of change that makes her a great choice for America: hopefulness, courage, honesty, tough-mindedness and experience. Her gender, her immigrant heritage, her racial complexity, her character, and her intelligence all suggest the potential of a better America.

To vote for Trump is to help bring about an apocalyptic future these charlatans claim is already here. It is a work of fiction. As president, Kamala Harris will change the existing narrative to one we all can be proud of.

Ron McAllister is a sociologist and writer who lives in York.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: The Observer: Kamala Harris and the future of America
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  After being devastated by a fire three years ago, Rubios Coastal Grill in Oceanside is re-opening with a community celebration on Tuesday. And thats not all  the rebuilt location will be a new prototype restaurant.

Live music, Rubios giveaways, a kids craft table, beer and an ice cream cart will be on hand at the Oceanside Rubios  located at 4201 Oceanside Blvd. on the corner of Oceanside and College boulevards  during its grand re-opening celebration from 4:30-7:30 pm. Tuesday, although the restaurant did open at 10:30 a.m.

Rubios Coastal Grill closes over a dozen San Diego-area stores

The new prototype location encompasses the vibes of Baja taco stands where Rubios Co-Founder Ralph Rubio first ate fish tacos as a college student 41 years ago. It will feature Instagram-worthy wall decor and art, with a mobile ordering pickup area and brand-new patio seating, the company announced.

The location has been closed since an electrical fire broke out in the ceiling in 2021.

Kacey McKinnon was live from the Oceanside Rubios Tuesday morning ahead of the grand opening, joined by Chris Radle, district manager for North County Rubios, with what to expect at the re-opening celebration and a look at the new prototype restaurant. Watch in the video above.

Rubios is headquartered in Carlsbad, Calif. and has 86 restaurants across Southern California, Arizona and Nevada.

Many restaurants raised menu prices after CAs minimum wage hike, survey shows

Although the company announced earlier this summer it was closing underperforming stores across California, including 13 San Diego County locations, the company says its Oceanside location remains among the most popular. Radle said they are very connected and are investing in the community, and that the new restaurant is more modern with newer technology.

In celebration of the store re-opening, all rewards members will get 500 bonus points in their app after a purchase during opening week, the company confirmed.

Snag a free Pizookie through October for National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day 2024

Half of the profits from the grand opening will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Northwest San Diego (formerly Oceanside).

Kacey McKinnon 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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Off-duty Mass. officer credited with saving child from drowning while on vacation in NH

An off-duty Massachusetts officer is being hailed a hero after police say he saved a child from drowning while on vacation in New Hampshire last week.

Officer Matthew Sech, of the Chelmsford Police Department, was vacationing at Iona Lake in Conway when he heard urgent screams from the shoreline on the morning of Aug. 2, according to a post on the departments website.

Sech rushed to the scene of the screams and was greeted by a woman who had just pulled her unresponsive child from the water. Police say Sech then delivered several back blows to the child to expel water from her lungs.

The child, who regained consciousness, underwent treatment at a nearby hospital. She has since been released.

Sech, a six-year veteran of the department, recently completed EMT training, according to Deputy Police Chief Gary Hannagan.

We applaud Officer Sech for his courage and swift response, which unquestionably saved a young life, Hannagan said in a statement. His commitment to public safety goes beyond his official duties, exemplifying the highest standards of our department.

The young girl who Sech saved is said to be in good health.

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Ohio man pleads guilty on charges for distributing drugs that killed someone from Mercer County

An Ohio man has pleaded guilty to charges related to distributing fentanyl that killed someone from Mercer County.

The Department of Justice says Eliot Gentry, 27, of Youngstown, pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl resulting in death and conspiring to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, fluorofentanyl and cocaine on Tuesday.

Prosecutors allege the Gentry distributed the fentanyl that killed someone in Mercer County on Jan. 23, 2022. They allege he distributed 100 grams or more of fluorofentanyl, and five kilograms or more of cocaine between May 2021 and October 2022.

Gentry will be sentenced in December. He faces between 20 years and life in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both.

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Ohio prisons firearms instructor David Pearson, left, waited with his attorney, Kevin Lennen, right, to face arraignment Wednesday in Pickaway County Common Pleas Court in Circleville. Pearson, , 44, of West Chester Township in Butler County, was indicted by a county grand jury on a charge of negligent homicide in connection with the fatal April 9 shooting of Lt. Rodney Osborne, an Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction supervisor, during a firearms training session.

An Ohio prison system firearms instructor made his first appearance Wednesday in a Pickaway County court in connection with the fatal shooting of a prison lieutenant at an April training session.

David Pearson, 44, of West Chester Township in Butler County, pleaded not guilty through his attorney at his brief arraignment on a negligent homicide charge in Pickaway County Common Pleas Court. A county grand jury last month indicted Pearson, a special operations commander, in the April 9 death of Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Lt. Rodney Osborne, 43, of Sciotodale, during a firearms training exercise.

Common Pleas Judge P. Randall Knece read the charge and released Pearson on a recognizance bond. Pearson faces up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, if convicted.

Related article: 'His heart was huge:' family recalls lieutenant fatally shot at Ohio prison training facility

Knece set Pearson's next court date, a pretrial hearing, for Sept. 13.

Osborne's wife, Bobbie, previously told The Dispatch she is outraged by the grand jury's decision not to indict Pearson on more serious charges.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol investigated the shooting as a reckless homicide, according to records previously reported on by The Dispatch. Reckless homicide, a third-degree felony, could carry up to five years in prison.

Pearson and his attorney, Kevin Lennen, declined to speak to reporters after the hearing.

Osborne suffered a single gunshot wound to the upper chest in April while training at the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction's Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Orient, according to autopsy photos reviewed by The Dispatch.

Colleagues performed CPR on Osborne and, instead of waiting for an ambulance, took him in the back of a pickup to Mount Carmel Grove City Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The ODRC placed Pearson on administrative leave immediately after the shooting.

jlaird@dispatch.com

@LairdWrites

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio prisons officer faces charge in lieutenant's death at training
In less than 90 days, Ohio will vote on a state constitutional amendment proposed by a hyper-partisan front group posing as "citizens not politicians." Ironically, its being shoved ahead by politicians  nearly all from one political party and bankrolled with more than $25 million of the darkest of dark money. This power play is fueled by Democrats tired of being repeatedly rejected by Ohio voters.

If this vandalization of our states governing charter is approved, Ohio legislative maps would no longer be drawn by elected officials directly accountable to voters. Instead, retired politicians  whom voters cant choose  would partner with a private for-profit company to help draw legislative lines. When I was Ohios Deputy Attorney General, I co-authored Ohios Sunshine Law Manual. If theres one thing I learned, its that private companies taking over government work rarely adds sunshine to the effort.

Over the years, I served as a political advisor to leaders on both sides of this issue, and they are people of goodwill. But Ive also taught election law at the University of Akron, and I see the danger this Trojan Horse will bring to Ohio.

Jul 1, 2024; Columbus, OH, 43215; Boxes of signed petitions are unloaded at the Ohio Secretary of State's office for Citizens Not Politicians, an potential anti-gerrymandering constitutional amendment. Supporters say they have 731,000 signatures which is more than enough to secure a spot of the Nov 5, 2024 ballot.

Unlike the past, when Ohioans voted out those who drew legislative lines, under the proposed system, voters would be blocked from challenging the lines. The ploy even obstructs civil rights activists who are outraged about racist or otherwise illegal decisions made by the mapmakers from bringing their concerns to the Ohio Supreme Court.

The apprehension about racist actions is real. Michigan tried a nearly identical scheme and three different federal judges all declared it unconstitutional  because they made it hard to elect Black candidates. The Democrats' attempt to argue otherwise was rebuffed by the U.S. Supreme Court.

It's official: Ohio redistricting amendment makes November ballot. What would it do?

In this most divisive era, the Ohio proposal would further divide us. With the overarching goal of electing more Democrats, those drawing lines will split neighbor from neighbor, fragment communities of interest, and impede people from getting involved in government.

Why is a proposal that would be laughed off the set of Shark Tank as impractical being advanced now? Political history reveals a nefarious scheme at play.

After each 10-year census, the party in power redraws Ohios legislative maps to reflect population shifts. The Democrats drew the maps in the 1970s, holding nearly two-thirds of the Ohio House. After the donkeys redrew legislative maps again in 1980s, Democrats maintained roughly 60% of the House seats for that decade.

Ohio voters asked Republicans to draw the maps in 1990 and 2000. But then something interesting and relevant to today happened. In the 2006 election, Ohio Democrats retook the House  even under the Republican-drawn maps.

Did you catch that? The minority party won seats with lines the majority party had drawn. How did they do it? The way campaigns are always won  with stronger candidates and better issues. Dont let slick ads fueled by out-of-state demagogues mislead you  good candidates running on relevant issues that engender broad support can win no matter who draws district lines.

Over the last several years, Ohio voters have adjudged Republicans to be the party of good governance and prudent policy, and that conclusion is wholly unrelated to legislative district lines. Thats because, for the past 15 years, every single state election for statewide office has gone to the candidate running as a Republican. Even Donald Trump twice won the Buckeye State with a healthy 8% margin or better. Lately, it seems like Ohio Republicans are the dazzling Harlem Globetrotters, and the Democrats are the hapless Washington Generals.

After years of such pathetic performance, Ohio Democrats didnt look inward for the cause. Rather, they groused about the legislative lines. Partially in response, Ohio voters passed two state constitutional amendments to reform the redistricting process in 2015 and 2018. But  even under these reforms  like a teacher handing out failing grades, voters continued to reject Ohio Democrat candidates.

Undoubtedly, there are some Democrats who deserve a chance to lead. But their partys policy positions have tilted far to the left and away from the values most Ohioans share. Instead of moderating their ideas or recruiting better candidates, Ohio Democrats want to change the rules so they can finally win.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has come out against a state constitutional amendment that would change out legislative district maps are drawn.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine opposes redistricting ballot measure

Recently, Gov. Mike DeWine laid out a masterful case against this nonsense. Backers of the issue lowered the level of discourse by claiming the governor somehow needs someone to explain the issue to him.

Despite that incivility, the issues backers recognize that, in red state Ohio, theyll need Republican votes to sell this scheme. Thats why they added a few token Republicans to the face of it. All the better to concoct a phony image of bipartisanship.

But taping a few feathers to a brick doesnt make it a bird. And  like this proposed amendment  it still wont fly.

Mark R. Weaver is the former deputy attorney general of Ohio. He is a litigation attorney working in media and election law. On X: @MarkRWeaver

Mark Weaver

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio redistricting amendment won't fly with voters
OKLAHOMA CITY  New guidance from Oklahoma City Public Schools regarding a state mandate to teach the Bible requires teachers to reference the texts historical and literary aspects only in the specific instances that state academic standards allow.

In issuing the guidance on Wednesday, Superintendent Jamie Polk also advised teachers to document detailed lesson plans and not to stray from district-approved curriculum materials.

The Bible must not be used for preaching or indoctrination, and Oklahoma City schools, the states second largest district, must maintain absolute neutrality and objectivity when referencing it, Polk said.

Our goal is to provide a balanced, objective approach that respects diverse beliefs by adhering to both state requirements and federal laws and regulations, she said in a memo to teachers, who returned to work this week.

Last month, state Superintendent Ryan Walters ordered all Oklahoma districts to teach about the Bibles historic and literary value starting in the 2024-25 school year.

More: Walters threatens 'rogue' school districts that don't embrace Bible mandate

His mandate also includes a provision that all classrooms keep a copy of the Bible, the Ten Commandments, the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

Walters order aims to add extra guidelines to the state academic standards, which are a lengthy list of topics and concepts that Oklahoma public schools must teach.

How does Ryan Walters' Bible mandate differ from existing standards?

The Bible is not mentioned in the existing standards for social studies, English language arts, fine arts or music  the subject areas Walters identified for Bible instruction. However, the social studies standards require schools to teach about major world religions and the role of religion in the establishment of some American colonial governments.

Walters guidelines seek a much deeper exploration of the Bible, including analysis of biblical passages, instruction on its influence in Western civilization and American history, and references to it in literature and fine arts.

Opinion: Readers on Ryan Walters and his demand for teaching the Bible in public schools | Letters

To ensure our students are equipped to understand and contextualize our nation, its culture, and its founding, every student in Oklahoma will be taught the Bible in its historical, cultural, and literary context, Walters said in a statement on the mandate.

The order quickly became controversial over concerns for church-state separation and local control of school curriculum. Leaders of multiple school districts have since said their districts wont implement more instruction on the Bible outside of what state standards already require.

Polk said her guidance is meant to give legal cover to teachers in case one of them faces a complaint.

The new Oklahoma City Public Schools superintendent, Jamie Polk speaks during a greater Oklahoma City Chamber and State of the Schools luncheon in Oklahoma City, on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024.

We have to protect teachers, and when this came out, one of the first things we did was we rallied together as a team, and I had the curriculum department at the table and I had the legal department at the table, Polk said in an interview with Oklahoma Voice. I asked the legal team, If one of our teachers got in trouble because of the Bible, what would you need to defend them?

Documenting lesson plans, including the way teachers present the information to students, will be essential, she said.

OKC law firm says mandate 'invalid under Oklahoma law'

The Center for Education Law, an Oklahoma City law firm that provides legal counsel to OKCPS, raised doubts over the viability of Walters Bible mandate. Any attempt by the state to direct how Oklahoma schools teach academic standards would infringe on local district authority and is invalid under Oklahoma law, the law firm wrote in a letter to schools.

Polks statement to teachers on Wednesday also referenced another, similarly polarizing announcement from Walters asking schools to provide a cost analysis of educating undocumented students. Walters said his administration would release guidance on the matter in the coming weeks.

Families dont have to provide information on their immigration status to enroll their children in public schools. The Oklahoma City district doesnt ask for these details, and Polk said it doesnt plan to start doing so.

More: Law Center says proposal to teach the Bible in Oklahoma classrooms invalid under state law

The recent orders created a tricky start this summer to Polks tenure as Oklahoma Citys superintendent, but after 36 years in education, she said she knows theres always something that will stir debate.

She said she still aims to maintain a working relationship with the state Education Department to ensure students receive what they need in order for them to have a diploma in one hand and a plan in the other as they walk across the stage.

The topics change, but theres always conflict, Polk said while looking back on the national controversies that erupted over past decades. But as Americans, how do we navigate problems?

How do we come to the table then and let me hear your voice so I can accept your viewpoint, but you too then get to hear my voice?

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: OKC Public Schools releases new guidelines on teaching Bible
Teachers in Oklahoma City Public Schools have been instructed to document detailed lesson plans when referencing the Bible and to teach about the text only in specific instances allowed under state standards. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  New guidance from Oklahoma City Public Schools regarding a state mandate to teach the Bible requires teachers to reference the texts historical and literary aspects only in the specific instances that state academic standards allow.

In issuing the guidance on Wednesday, Superintendent Jamie Polk also advised teachers to document detailed lesson plans and not to stray from district-approved curriculum materials.

The Bible must not be used for preaching or indoctrination, and Oklahoma City schools, the states second largest district, must maintain absolute neutrality and objectivity when referencing it, Polk said.

Our goal is to provide a balanced, objective approach that respects diverse beliefs by adhering to both state requirements and federal laws and regulations, she said in a memo to teachers, who returned to work this week.

Last month, state Superintendent Ryan Walters ordered all Oklahoma districts to teach about the Bibles historic and literary value starting in the 2024-25 school year.

His mandate also includes a provision that all classrooms keep a copy of the Bible, the Ten Commandments, the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

Walters order aims to add extra guidelines to the state academic standards, which are a lengthy list of topics and concepts that Oklahoma public schools must teach.

The Bible is not mentioned in the existing standards for social studies, English language arts, fine arts or music  the subject areas Walters identified for Bible instruction. However, the social studies standards require schools to teach about major world religions and the role of religion in the establishment of some American colonial governments.

Walters guidelines seek a much deeper exploration of the Bible, including analysis of biblical passages, instruction on its influence in Western civilization and American history, and references to it in literature and fine arts.

To ensure our students are equipped to understand and contextualize our nation, its culture, and its founding, every student in Oklahoma will be taught the Bible in its historical, cultural, and literary context, Walters said in a statement on the mandate.

The order quickly became controversial over concerns for church-state separation and local control of school curriculum. Leaders of multiple school districts have since said their districts wont implement more instruction on the Bible outside of what state standards already require.

Polk said her guidance is meant to give legal cover to teachers in case one of them faces a complaint.

We have to protect teachers, and when this came out, one of the first things we did was we rallied together as a team, and I had the curriculum department at the table and I had the legal department at the table, Polk said in an interview with Oklahoma Voice. I asked the legal team, If one of our teachers got in trouble because of the Bible, what would you need to defend them?

Documenting lesson plans, including the way teachers present the information to students, will be essential, she said.

The Center for Education Law, an Oklahoma City law firm that provides legal counsel to OKCPS, raised doubts over the viability of Walters Bible mandate. Any attempt by the state to direct how Oklahoma schools teach academic standards would infringe on local district authority and is invalid under Oklahoma law, the law firm wrote in a letter to schools.

Polks statement to teachers on Wednesday also referenced another, similarly polarizing announcement from Walters asking schools to provide a cost analysis of educating undocumented students. Walters said his administration would release guidance on the matter in the coming weeks.

Families dont have to provide information on their immigration status to enroll their children in public schools. The Oklahoma City district doesnt ask for these details, and Polk said it doesnt plan to start doing so.

The recent orders created a tricky start this summer to Polks tenure as Oklahoma Citys superintendent, but after 36 years in education, she said she knows theres always something that will stir debate.

She said she still aims to maintain a working relationship with the state Education Department to ensure students receive what they need in order for them to have a diploma in one hand and a plan in the other as they walk across the stage.

The topics change, but theres always conflict, Polk said while looking back on the national controversies that erupted over past decades. But as Americans, how do we navigate problems?

How do we come to the table then and let me hear your voice so I can accept your viewpoint, but you too then get to hear my voice?

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What is the oldest building in NY? It may not be what you think

Have you ever wondered what the oldest building in New York state is? It's located in Brooklyn and it's been open to the public since 2001.

The Wyckoff House, now known as the Wyckoff House Museum, was built around 1652, according to the Historic House Trust of New York City, and the original portion of the house is the oldest structure in New York state and its first officially designated landmark.

Here's what to know about the structure.

What's the story behind NY's oldest building?

The original portion of the Wyckoff House in Brooklyn is the oldest structure in New York state and its first officially designated landmark, according to the Historic House Trust of New York City.

Pieter Claesen Wyckoff, who grew up in modern-day Germany, arrived in New Netherland, the first Dutch colony in North America, which extended from Albany to Delaware, in 1637, the Historic House Trust of New York City says.

Wyckoff and his wife Grietje van Nes settled in the village of Nieuw Amersfoort  modern-day East Flatbush-Flatlands of Brooklyn  after Wyckoff worked on the van Rensselaer's farm for six years as an indentured servant. Here, Wyckoff became a successful farmer and magistrate. The pair had 11 children and have more than 50,000 descendants.

"Wyckoff House's history exemplifies the diversity of Brooklyns colonial farms, where Dutch-American landowners, enslaved and freed Africans, and later European immigrants labored on some of the countrys most fertile land," the Historic House Trust of New York City said. "The Wyckoff House Museum typifies the vernacular farmhouse architecture of the Dutch-American farms of Brooklyn and Queens. Generations of Wyckoffs enlarged and altered the house and continued to farm the land until 1901."

100-foot underground waterfall?: Check out these 3 caves and caverns in upstate NY

A large group of the Wyckoff's descendants purchased and preserved the home, forming The Wyckoff House & Association, Inc. in 1937, the Wyckoff House Museum website states. In the 1960's, the Wyckoff House Foundation gained ownership of the property and donated it to the New York City Parks Department with renovation plans.

In 1965, the house became the first structure in New York to be designated a historic landmark. A fire in the late 1970's led to restoration efforts in the early 1980's and the house has been open to the public since 2001.

What's the oldest building in upstate NY?

According to the Greene County Historical Society, the Bronck House, now part of the Bronck Museum, in Coxsackie "is believed to be the oldest surviving house north of the metropolitan area."

Built in 1663 by Pieter Bronck of Sweden, the single-room stone house was constructed after Bronck purchased a tract of land from the native Mohicans. "This simple sturdy one room stone structure is an excellent example of the utilitarian dwellings favored by many of the first Northern Europeans to settle the valley," the Greene County Historical Society website states.

In subsequent years, additions were added and the home and surrounding farm remained in the Bronck family for seven generations before being willed to the Greene County Historical Society in 1939.

Emily Barnes is the New York State Team consumer advocate reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: What is the oldest building in NY? It may not be what you think
By Layli Foroudi

PARIS (Reuters) - A French police officer who fatally shot a teenager of Tunisian heritage during a traffic stop in 2021 was among BMX riders who took part in the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, to the distress of the deceased teenager's family.

Romain Devassine, 26, shot 19-year-old Soheil El Khalfaoui as he tried to drive off during a traffic stop in Marseille on August 4, 2021.

For the past three years, the youngster's family have been pressing for justice and a murder investigation by Marseille justice authorities is ongoing. So when Soheil's aunt, Samia El Khalfaoui, saw Devassine on television as she watched the opening ceremony, the shock it delivered felt akin to "a cold shower".

"I found it indecent, disrespectful. He was there, majestic on the stage in his Napoleon costume - it was as if he was mocking us," she told Reuters.

Devassine and the interior ministry did not respond to requests for comment on Devassine's role in the fatal shooting or his participation in the opening ceremony.

El Khalfaoui is one of more than 20 people who have been shot dead by French police since 2020, most of them Black or Arab men, according to a Reuters tally.

It was the fatal shooting by police of Nahel Merzouk - a 17-year-old of North African heritage - in similar circumstances in a Paris suburb in 2023 that sparked nationwide unrest and stirred deep-seated grievances over neglect and discrimination among communities of immigrant descent.

A police watchdog report seen by Reuters shows that in questioning Devassine acknowledged he shot the teenager, saying that he did so to save his colleague's life. No charges have been brought against Devassine to date.

A French law introduced in 2017 allows police to use their firearms following a refusal to comply with a traffic stop if the driver is likely to pose a risk to their life or physical safety, or to other people's.

SLOW INVESTIGATION

Devassine published photos of the ceremony on his Instagram profile on July 27. "It was incredible to live this ceremony in the middle of the Seine with the boys," he wrote.

They had not been able to perform their stunts live because of the heavy rain, he said.

The footage that was shown on TV during the opening ceremony was recorded during the afternoon's training, according to La Voix du Nord newspaper.

The Paris 2024 organisers said all performers were hired by a production agency.

"The most difficult thing is to think that three years have passed and he is doing his stunts on TV while the investigative judge still hasn't interrogated him - if the judge had done his work, he wouldn't be on TV," said Issam El Khalfaoui, Soheil's father. The Marseille prosecutor's office declined to comment.

The family's lawyer Arie Alimi said that Devassine was still working as a police officer.

"It is a sign that the Interior Ministry showcases authors of police violence," he said.

The Interior Ministry did not respond to a Reuters request for confirmation Devassine was a serving officer or to Alimi's allegation it was showcasing police violence.

(Reporting by Layli Foroudi; additional reporting by Julien Pretot; Editing by Richard Lough, Ingrid Melander, Alexandra Hudson)
The Omaha City Council meets weekly at the downtown City-County Building. The seven-member council on Tuesday, Aug. 6, passed a code of conduct for its members that raised controversy, particularly North Omaha constituents concerned about potential disparate treatment. (Cate Folsom/Nebraska Examiner)

OMAHA  A code of conduct for the city council of Nebraskas largest city was established Tuesday with a 6-1 vote by the council.

In a related action, the council also voted 6-1 to place on the November election ballot an amendment that would change the City Charter by adding three more reasons City Council members could forfeit their elected seat.

If approved by Omaha voters, council members would forfeit office if they no longer lived in the district they were elected to represent (unless it is the result of redistricting) or if they missed four consecutive council meetings without council permission.

Additionally, six of the seven council members could move to oust a fellow member, after an investigation and public hearing, for certain violations of the newly adopted code of conduct. Those violations include racial or sexual discrimination; severe and pervasive mistreatment of city staff; conviction of a crime of violence; and acquiring a personal financial interest in a contract or transaction under consideration by the city.

The code of conduct and potential ramifications of the related City Charter amendment raised the ire of multiple people who spoke last week at a public hearing, saying that council members ousting an elected official amounted to voter suppression. Others, including State Sen. Terrell McKinney of North Omaha and the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, submitted concerns in writing.

Several said they thought the code of conduct was aimed at Councilwoman Juanita Johnson of North Omaha, who has conflicted at times with Mayor Jean Stothert and some members of her cabinet.

Johnson cast the lone vote Tuesday against both the code of conduct and the measure to put the three-pronged amendment on the November ballot.

She said the language was too vague and allowed for interpretation that could negatively impact a minority voice.

Councilman Brinker Harding, in addressing what he described as the elephant in the room, said the code was not aimed at Johnson or anyone else currently on the council. He said the committee that shaped the related proposals did not view or intend them as voter suppression.

Councilwoman Aimee Melton said she saw the code as primarily to protect city employees. The code lays out a path to reporting and investigating alleged behavior violations of council members and can lead to a range of disciplines.

She said many people are surprised there was no conduct code in place previously.

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Emigrant Peak Trail in the Custer-Gallatin National Forest (Photo by Jacob W. Frank of the National Park Service).

Lately, recreation interests are pushing for legislation to divide up the wilderness-quality roadless lands in the Custer Gallatin National Forest among themselves. Wildlife have no voice in their calculations. When the idea of collaboration was formed in 2012, representatives of three local non-profits said were not going to lose this one by watering down land protections so much that no user group could object. Not the logging industry, not the recreation industry, not even politicians who might favor the transfer of public lands to private ownership. Everyone would get a piece of the pie. Private pilots from Florida weighed in with how they could set up private hovercraft flights into pristine meadows that had always been intended as Wilderness.

The Forest Service welcomed and funded the multiple use proposal, and said they would favor it in their Forest Plan Revision of 2020. They did, ignoring local independent wildlife biologists who said wildlife would have nowhere else to go when displaced by recreationists. (See report by F. Lance Craighead in 2015: Wilderness, Wildlife and Ecological Values of the Hyalite-Porcupine Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area.)

Climate change is pressuring the amazing wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem to adapt to disappearing food sources and diminished water. The focus by the Gallatin Forest Partnership on human desires for play space in the backcountry should be downright embarrassing to anyone who claims to appreciate wilderness for its own sake. Only 2.7% of the roadless lands in the lower 48 are Wilderness, and visionary Montana leaders of past decades recognized the Hyalite Porcupine Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area as the most obvious and perfect example to set aside.

The facts: the Custer Gallatin National Forest lost a lawsuit over the 2006 Travel Plan. Existing motorized and mechanized uses were recognized as illegal. The 1977 law creating the HPBH WSA said that those 155,000 acres be managed to maintain their presently existing wilderness character and potential for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System. But instead of shutting down those illegal uses, the Supervisor said she used agency discretion to change around the motorized use and to increase mountain biking. Mountain bikes werent a thing in 1977. The Big Sky Recreational National Scenic Trail for snowmobiles had been designated by a single official in 1994.

True advocates for wildlife and wilderness mapped 230,000 acres in the Gallatin Forest alone as eligible for protection as wilderness, and the Forest Service accepted that plan as Alternative D in forest plan revision. Sadly, the moneyed interests had more sway, as they calculated from the start in 2012.

But it is not too late. To preserve the ecological integrity of the Northern Rockies ecosystem, The Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act (NREPA), S. 1531, designates as wilderness more than 6 million acres of wilderness in Montana, 9 million acres of wilderness in Idaho, 5 million acres of wilderness in Wyoming, 750,000 acres in eastern Oregon, and 500,000 acres in eastern Washington  all on federal public land. In addition, NREPA will protect more than 3 million wilderness acres in Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton National Parks. See https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1531/text

At a minimum, The Hyalite Porcupine Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area of 155,000 acres must not be reduced. Generations of Montana leaders and the public approved proposed Wilderness for the WSA decades ago, and to ignore that support dishonors our democratic traditions.

Nancy Ostlie is a board member of Gallatin Wildlife Association and is former leader of Great Old Broads for Wilderness, Bozeman Broadband.
GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA)  The Greenville County Sheriffs Office has arrested and charged a man in connection with a shooting which sent one person to the hospital Monday morning.

According to the sheriffs office, investigators arrested Germaine Antonio Williams, 51, on Tuesday on charges of attempted murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime and possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain crimes.

Williams is accused of shooting a man after an argument outside a gas station on Buncombe Road early Monday morning. The victim in the shooting was taken to the hospital where he underwent surgery and is expected to recover.

Previous story: Man injured following shooting outside convenience store

Williams was booked in the Greenville County Detention Center where he was given no 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 WSPA 7NEWS.
One dead and eight trapped after hotel collapses in Germany

A hotel has partially collapsed near the river Moselle in Germany, killing one person and trapping eight others.

Fourteen people were inside when the walls caved in at the historic Zum Ritter Gotz hotel, situated in a wine region to the west of Frankfurt.

Five people escaped unharmed and a young child has been rescued alongside his mother.

Drones and dog teams have been searching for other survivors.

Hotel Reichsschenke in the town of Kroev partially collapsed on Tuesday night

Firefighters and paramedics help lead a woman out of the collapsed hotel to safety - Alex Kraus/REUTERS

One emergency responder was seen carrying a barefoot woman out of the damaged building.

The partial collapse happened at 10.55pm on Tuesday, leaving concrete rubble scattered in the street.

The two-storey hotel suffered severe structural damage, leaving the roof unstable and compressing two floors on one side of the building.

Around 250 emergency services personnel from the fire brigade, police and medical services were involved in the rescue effort.

Neighbouring homes were evacuated in case of further collapse and 31 people were moved to safety.

The cause of the collapse remains unclear, with no official statements yet from emergency services.

Part of the hotel collapsed at around 11pm on Tuesday - Florian Blaes/dpa

Zum Ritter Gotz hotel is a historic building dating back to 1685, located in Krov, a village of 2,200 residents known for its picturesque location along the Moselle River, historic buildings and vineyards.

This is not the first time a hotel has collapsed in Germany in recent years.

In 2010, a partial collapse occurred at the Empire Riverside hotel in Hamburg, where 13 construction workers were injured.

Three years earlier, a section of the Hotel Neptun in Rostock collapsed when a crane toppled over during construction work. Several construction workers were injured.

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Two dead and several trapped after hotel collapses in Germany

Two people have died and others remain trapped after a hotel collapsed in a village in the heart of western Germanys Mosel wine-growing region.

There were 14 people in the building in Krov at the time of the collapse, a fire department spokesperson told CNN Wednesday.

A man and a woman have died, and three people are trapped, Trier Police said at a news conference Wednesday. One of the bodies had not yet been recovered.

The trapped people have been able to contact police by phone, so authorities know where in the building they are located and what condition they are in.

A badly damaged wall at a partially collapsed hotel. - Harald Tittel/dpa/AP

A crane is set up after a hotel partially collapsed overnight. - Alex Kraus/Reuters

While the building is still partially intact, it is moving by 4 millimeters (0.16 inches) an hour, so rescue operations are proving to be difficult.

As the ceilings of the hotel have collapsed, police said, a core drill is being used from above to try and access the people in the rubble.

Around 250 firefighters, paramedics, police and technical relief workers, including special forces, rescue dog teams and drone units, are on site.

Police said the cause of the collapse is not yet known.

The lower part of the building dates from the 17th century, while the two upper floors were added in 1980, according to Trier Police.

Construction was being carried out on the building until Tuesday, police said, adding that three houses in the immediate vicinity of the hotel have been evacuated.

This story has been updated with developments.

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The decision by Joe Biden's inner circle to allow the poor fellow to get out of the presidential race was a godsend for the Democratic Party.

Biden's exit gives new life to the Democrats chances to keep the White House. The ascension of Vice President Kamala Harris to the top of the ticket breathes new life into a dead campaign.

More: Republicans leave convention with sense of momentum | INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE

Bidens decline, mentally and physically, assured a Democratic presidential defeat on Nov. 5, but also guaranteed the Democrats loss of the U.S. Senate, as well as their hopes to wrest the majority of the House from the Republicans. The top of the ticket in a presidential year usually affects the results of down-ballot congressional races.

The national electorate is divided evenly right down the middle with 45% Democratic locked-in voters and a guaranteed 45% Republican voters. Therefore, the race between Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump is all about turnout. Its turnout, turnout, turnout.

It does not matter how popular or what landslide numbers Trump gets in Alabama or how much Harris trounces Trump by in California, it is all going to boil down to which candidates stalwart supporters turn out to vote in Arizona, Nevada, North Carolina, Georgia, Wisconsin and Michigan.

Trump and the Republicans came out of their successful GOP convention two weeks ago with a bump and a five-point lead. My guess is that when the Democrats end their convention in two weeks, Harris and Trump will be knotted at a dead even 45/45 in the six battleground states. The horse-race numbers will remain the same for the final two months leading up to the Nov. 5 election.

Steve Flowers

It will all depend on the enthusiasm and determination of the base of each team. Does the Trump conservative team vote enthusiastically as expected or does the liberal Democratic Harris team get its disciples to the polls? It will all boil down to turnout in six states. My guess is that the race will ultimately come down to Wisconsin and Michigan.

Harris is the best candidate that the Democrats could field. She perfectly reflects the heart and soul of the Democratic Party. She will energize this base vote, particularly African-American women. It will be close in November.

Biden was in a diminished capacity when the Democrats ran him in 2020. They were able to hide him and not let people see him during that campaign year, and simply ran a campaign that was focused on voting against Trump.

However, when Biden became president, he had to actually be seen and watched. It was apparent that he was not cognitively vital. Over the past two years, his condition has gotten progressively worse. This year, he has been on dramatic decline.

In recent months, there have been some very comical scenes. It would make for a reality comedy show. You will probably see a reel in future years entitled Old Joe Runs for President.

There are three scenes that stick out to me and would be his greatest hits. The first occurred at a D-Day event in France. You could tell that the European leaders were concerned and amused at Bidens diminished capacity and demeanor. They were lining up to take a picture with the other European leaders when, all of a sudden, old Joe starts wandering off toward a cliff and the Italian prime minister had to run grab him by the arm and bring him back.

Later that month, they took Joe to a fundraiser in Hollywood with Liberal Elite, left-wing movie stars. He was on stage with Barack Obama. When the program came to an end, he stood there on the stage in one of his memorable stares into space. He stood there with mouth open and that blank look in his eyes that clearly said, Where am I? Where have they taken me?

After four full minutes Biden staring frozenly into space, Obama took him by the arm and led him off the stage. The movie stars were probably thinking to themselves, I came here to give money to a presidential race and instead Im contributing to a geriatric care fund.

Indeed, Jill Biden has turned the White House into nothing more than the nations most expensive nursing home.

The coup de grace was the June 27 debate debacle. If everyone in the country did not know that Biden was out to lunch before, the 27 million people who watched that comedy show knew afterward. His incoherent ramblings and slurred incomprehensible mumblings were bad and revealed that he probably did not know where he was.

The saddest thing was that as Jill Biden helped him off the stage, she told him he did a good job.

Steve Flowers' weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state Legislature. Flowers can be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Presidential race will hinge on one key factor | INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE
One man was shot in the head and another is in jail after both fired guns, SC cops say

One man was killed and another was locked up following a recent shootout, according to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

Aubrey Priester Jr., a 42-year-old Barnwell resident, was charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime connected to the death of 33-year-old Juston Erving, SLED said in a news release.

Both Priester and Erving fired guns during the Sunday morning shootout, an affidavit shows.

At about 3:30 a.m., the men were involved in an altercation on Sato Avenue in Denmark, according to the affidavit. Information about what led to the altercation was not available, and there was no word if the men knew each other prior to the shooting.

Erving then pulled a gun and began shooting at a trailer, the affidavit shows. A witness said that Priester then drew a gun and shot Erving, causing him to fall down, according to the affidavit.

While Erving was incapacitated on the ground, Priester approached and repeatedly shot the victim in the upper body and head, the affidavit shows.

No other injuries were reported.

Priester was arrested Sunday and booked into the Bamberg County Detention Center, SLED said. No bond has been set and Priester remains behind bars, Bamberg County court records show.

He will be prosecuted by the 2nd Circuit Solicitors Office.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  One person was rescued from a house fire on Iceland Park Wednesday morning.

The Rochester Fire Department told News 8 that they received reports of the fire at 9:09 a.m. At least four people were inside the home at the time of the fire.

Three people were able to get out of the back of the home, but one person was stuck at the second-story window. Firefighters were able to get them down. No injuries were reported.

RFD added the house was vacant and the individuals inside the home were not residents. News 8 is working to gather more information about the incident.

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In an era where digital security is paramount, the online PFA platform promises to assist property owners and stakeholders in protecting themselves from fraudulent activities, a news release says.

(File/Getty)

The tool is designed to alert users about potential threats to their real estate holdings. PFA Is officially available in both the Rock Island County Recorders Office and the Scott County Recorders Office at no fee to the constituents and can be accessed by visiting the websites of either office or directly here.

The platforms primary focus is to empower property owners, real estate agents, and title companies with real-time notifications (via phone call, email, or text alert) of suspicious activities related to their properties.

Our mission is to provide peace of mind to property owners by equipping them with tools needed to detect and respond to potential fraud swiftly, said Kelly Fisher, Rock Island County recorder and Rita Vargas, Scott County recorder. Protecting homeowners is crucial and our platform aims to be a proactive ally in safeguarding real estate investments, and we are thrilled to be able to offer the service to the entire QCA.

About Property Fraud Alert

PFA is a pioneering online platform dedicated to detecting fraudulent activities within real estate transactions. With advanced monitoring capabilities and customizable alert systems, the platform empowers property owners, agents, and title companies to safeguard their investments effectively.

A total of 71 Illinois and 10 Iowa county recorders offer Property Fraud Alert as a free service to their constituents. A full list is here.

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Another cofounder has left OpenAI.

AI safety researcher John Schulman has departed the ChatGPT creator and joined the ranks of the rival venture Anthropic, an AI company founded by other OpenAI expats.

In an X-formerly-Twitter post on Monday, Schulman announced that he'd "made the difficult decision to leave" the AI company he helped start, citing desires to "deepen [his] focus on AI alignment" and return to a more hands-on role.

Alignment is an AI industry term for ensuring that an AI model's reasoning, objectives, and ethics reflect humanity's. Basically, it's the art of making sure AI doesn't revolt against humankind or otherwise harm us. OpenAI once housed a "Superalignment" safety team, which was dedicated to ensuring alignment even if AI becomes clever enough to outsmart humans.

But in May, the scientists who helmed the unit  the former OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever and alignment researcher Jan Lieke  suddenly exited, sending shockwaves through the industry. The Superalignment team quickly dissolved, and Schulman, who at the time was already leading alignment efforts for products like ChatGPT was bumped up to OpenAI's lead safety position.

And now, just months later, he's out as well. But according to his X post, it's not at any fault of OpenAI's.

"To be clear, I'm not leaving due to lack of support for alignment research at OpenAI," the now-former OpenAI leader wrote. "On the contrary, company leaders have been very committed to investing in this area."

"My decision is a personal one," he added, "based on how I want to focus my efforts in the next phase of my career."

Schulman's departure note drew public support from Altman, who in a response on X thanked the exiting cofounder for his work and referred to him as a "brilliant researcher, a deep thinker about product and society," and a "great friend."

While Schulman has remained staunch in his support of OpenAI's alignment efforts, it's worth noting that the company's safety practices have drawn their fair share of criticism  including from his new employer, Anthropic, which was founded by ex-OpenAI scientists who felt that OpenAI wasn't focused enough on safety initiatives.

And in June, a whistleblower group mostly comprised of OpenAI staffers penned an open letter calling for a "Right to Warn" AI company leaders and the broader public about possible AI risks. Per the letter, its signees believe that AI risk mitigation has been hindered by insufficient whistleblower pathways and overbearing non-disclosure agreements. This letter was published on the heels of a bombshell report from Vox revealing that Altman and other OpenAI leaders had signed documents acknowledging a clause allowing OpenAI to levy extremely restrictive NDAs against exiting employees, who were threatened with equity clawback if they failed to sign the hush-hush agreements.

But again, from Schulman's perspective, the Microsoft-backed AI company's safety efforts are tip-top. It's not OpenAI  it's him.

"I'll still be rooting for you all," the scientist concluded his departure announcement, "even while working elsewhere."

More on OpenAI: OpenAI Insiders Say They're Being Silenced About Danger
State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, chair of the Revenue Committee hearing, presides over the first of multiple days of committee hearings on property taxes and tax relief. July 29, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  The Legislatures Revenue Committee will host two final hearings Wednesday morning, to consider adding a new tax on flavored nicotine pouches and to exempt residential electricity from taxes.

The impromptu public hearing will begin at 9 a.m. on two possible amendments to Legislative Bill 9, the final destination for the committees property tax relief package. Those wishing to offer online comments on the potential amendments are able to do so until 8 a.m.

The two amendments are:

AM 62, to provide a distinct tax on alternative nicotine products at 10 cents per ounce. The committee said Monday that the tax would include oral tobacco packages, such as the brand Zyn, the use of which has reportedly surged among minors.

AM 63, to exempt the sale and purchase of electricity for residential use from sales taxes. In the spring, lawmakers had considered a broader sales tax exemption that also included natural gas and propane for residential use.

State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, who introduced LB 9 and will be the lead sponsor on the new package, said Tuesday evening she was glad the committee will consider the nicotine tax.

Hughes has led efforts to increase taxes on vaping products and to crack down on teen usage; she said she was planning to look into the oral pouches ahead of the 2025 session.

The hearing will allow the committee to consider the new items as it crafts a final amendment, which was first outlined Monday afternoon. The proposal contains fewer sales and use tax exemptions coming off the books and smaller bumps to some sin taxes than originally proposed.

The soon-to-be-amended LB 9 is also expected to reduce maximum school tax rates, for operational expenses, to 25 cents, and have the state pick up the difference. The state could also take on the $95 million property tax burden for the states 23 natural resources districts and $181 million to operate county jails.

The committee is expected to vote later this week on whether to advance LB 9, as amended, to the full Legislature for debate.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The Oregon Coast Aquariums 49-year-old harbor seal named Skinny is likely the oldest seal in captivity, and in a year, could be the oldest seal in recorded history, according to data kept by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Association of Zoos and Aquariums spokesperson Tim Lewthwaite told KOIN 6 News that the oldest seal to ever live in an AZA-accredited zoo was a female named Betty. Betty died in 2019, and lived to be 50 years, 1 month and 14 days old. As of Aug. 6, Skinny is 49 years, 2 months and 5 days old, which means she is 11 months and 10 days away from achieving the all-time record.

There is one other animal older than both in [our records], but they were transferred to a non-AZA facility in 2005 and no longer receive updates, so may or may not be alive, but I cannot confirm, Lewthwaite said.

Skinny, one of the oldest seals in history, shares a moment with her handler. (Oregon Coast Aquarium)

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Harbor seals can live into their late teens in the wild. However, seals are known to reach their 20s and older in captivity, Oregon Coast Aquarium spokesperson Courtney Klug told KOIN.

Skinny came to the Oregon Coast Aquarium shortly before its grand opening in 1992 after spending her first 17 years of her life at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma.

Skinnys longevity reflects her status as a survivor, Klug said. In 1975, Skinny was just a pup when she was found stranded on a beach in Washington, orphaned, dehydrated, and starving. After receiving immediate care she was deemed non-releasable.

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Skinny is said to be a crowd favorite at the aquarium and is easy to spot. Klug said visitors can identify Skinny by looking for her wide eyes and sleek, silver fur.

Her caretakers describe her as the sassiest seal in the pool, and often joke that she doesnt blink, the Oregon Coast Aquarium shared on social media. If she did, another decade might just fly by.

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The Oregon Health Authority wants to eliminate inequities in health care that block people from the services they need. The agency released a plan for the next three years. (Getty Images)

The Oregon Health Authority wants to expand access to health care, grow the states behavioral health system and connect more families to preventative health care.

The goals are foundational for the agencys aim of eliminating inequities in health care by 2030. The health authority on Tuesday released its strategic plan that will guide that work. The plan covers the next three years and encompasses broad areas like access to health care, behavioral health care and tribal health.

The goal is to end systemic unfairness in the health care system that leads to different health outcomes for different communities, such as people of color, minority residents and immigrants. Inequities can lead to major life-changing consequences, with Black people and Native Americans having shorter average lifespans than white residents. Oregonians in rural regions struggle to access care and have more diabetes, heart disease and depression.

The inequities can manifest in different ways and contribute to a persons overall health, including a lack of access to providers, unaffordable housing or a lack of translation services in health clinics.

These inequities go beyond health statistics, Dr. Sejal Hathi, the health authoritys director, said in a press conference. They rob people of dignity, of opportunity and quality of life, and when it comes to health, were all connected.

The plan covers five broad areas:

Expanding the behavioral health care system with more workers, preventative services for children and youth and adding more beds in treatment facilities.

Expanding access to affordable health care. This includes outreach to enroll Oregonians in coverage, whether through the Oregon Health Plan, the states version of Medicaid, or a newly launched program for those who make a little too much to qualify for Medicaid. The state also wants to increase the number of providers through loan forgiveness programs and grow the number of certified traditional health workers, who have cultural ties to the communities they serve.

Increasing services to keep families healthy. This includes preventative health services, especially for new parents before and after birth and putting in place the housing and nutrition benefits that the states Medicaid plan will provide in a new program.

Working with Oregons nine federally recognized tribes. The agency has met with tribal members and hired a consultant to help officials finalize goals in this area.

Making the health authority more responsive to communities with a more diverse workforce.

Measuring success

Officials will track various areas to monitor their progress, for example, by logging the number of people who get sick with diseases that can be prevented. Theyll also track access to health care and workforce numbers and will create public dashboards to show developments.

But the 42-page plan doesnt spell out specific numeric goals for each area. For example, officials aim to decrease the number of people accessing the emergency department for behavioral health visits, but it doesnt set a targeted goal.

Asked about the lack of metrics, Hathi said the state will track the performance internally.

In addition to those high-level outcome measures for each strategy, every action in turn has outcome and process measures associated with it that we will ourselves track internally through our internal performance management system, Hathi said. Those get far more granular than perhaps is of interest to the public eye, but we are making sure that we incorporate those monitoring plans into our implementation planning work.

The plan calls for increasing the number of behavioral health treatment beds statewide, but doesnt identify a target for the end of 2027. The state needs 3,700 more beds, according to a report published in June.

Its unclear how many more beds the state can add in three years.

Hathi said the state will publish a dashboard in the coming weeks that outlines the goals for different types of beds and how many beds have been funded from 2021 to now.

Currently, the state can treat about 4,000 people in its residential facilities and plans to add nearly 400 more beds by the fall of 2025.

Need for community support

Its unclear how it will cost to achieve the goals in the plan, but much of the work will depend on providers who will need state help. Since 2021, the Legislature has allocated more than $230 million for behavioral health housing and residential treatment programs after years of underfunding.

But providers have complained to the Capital Chronicle that the health authority has been slow to disburse funds, especially to shovel-ready projects, even while acknowledging the need is urgent.

Critics say it will need to speed up the bureaucracy.

The health authority also will need community buy-in, something Hathi said state officials plan to address. In weeks to come, OHA will launch a statewide call to action, mobilizing our collective will and calling on our partners across state and local government, on health care payers and providers in academia, philanthropy and business to step up and take bold action to advance the strategic plan, Hathi said.

Health care providers who joined Hathi in a news conference said they were encouraged by the states focus. Brenda Johnson, CEO of La Clinica, a migrant and community health provider in the Medford region, said the work is meaningful for those most impacted.

In my community, here in southern Oregon, I see tragedies in the lives of people who have limited or no access to care, people who delay care or travel far and at great expense to receive it, said Johnson, also chair of the Oregon Health Policy Board.

The plan marks the culmination of work that started in 2019 with widespread community engagement. That work informed the states response to the pandemic, when Oregon published metrics that showed vaccination rates in hard-to-reach communities.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  In the latest legal challenge against Oregon gun laws, a federal lawsuit was filed Monday against the states ban on so-called ghost guns, arguing the law violates the Second Amendment.

The Firearms Policy Coalition filed the lawsuit over House Bill 2005 in the District Court of Oregon against Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum and Oregon State Police Superintendent Casey Codding in their official capacities.

FPC, a nonprofit, filed the lawsuit with the Oregon Firearms Federation and three Oregon residents, who argue they will face irreparable harm because they own guns that would be banned under the law, according to the complaint.

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Oregon House Bill 2005 was signed into law by Gov. Tina Kotek in July 2023 and outlawed firearms without a documented serial number, which are also known as ghost guns.

Theyre basically un-serialized, undetected weapons  weapons that can be made of plastic, on 3-D printers, or weapons that can be made at home in kits that are obtainable online by anyone, and which up until recently, have not needed, have not been required to have even a serial number on the parts, Attorney General Rosenblum previously told KOIN 6 News, noting the guns frustrate law enforcement investigations, can go undetected from security measures and can be obtained without a background check.

The plaintiffs, however, argue that law infringes the Second Amendment.

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Throughout American history, people have been free to personally manufacture, construct, and/or assemble arms for lawful purposes, including self-defense in the home. In defiance of this historical tradition, Oregons Bans completely and categorically prohibit individuals not prohibited from exercising their Second Amendment protected rights from possessing, acquiring, and self-manufacturing firearms that are of types, functions, and designs, and are themselves, commonly owned and possessed firearmsself-made firearms that do not bear a manufacturers serial number, as well as the component parts used to build such armsby law-abiding citizens for lawful purposes, the complaint said.

The law will cause irreparable harm on the plaintiffs who own guns that would be banned under HB 2005, according to the complaint, noting they would need to get rid of the guns or get them serialized by Sept. 1, 2024, when the ban takes effect.

The lawsuit also argues the Second Amendment protects ancillary rights that are necessary to exercise the right to possess arms for self-defense.

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Americans have always enjoyed the constitutionally protected right to build weapons for lawful purposes, said FPC President Brandon Combs. Oregons immoral ban unconstitutionally restricts this right. FPC will fight forward until all unconstitutional bans on self-manufacturing weapons are eliminated nationwide.

In response to the lawsuit, Attorney General Rosenblum said 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. We will defend their constitutionality vigorously.

OSP told KOIN 6 News they do not comment on pending litigation.

HB 2005 was among dozens of bills that were stalled during the longest Oregon Senate walkout in state history as Republicans claimed the bills  which were introduced by Democrats  were unreadable.

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Wildland firefighters fight the Falls Fire northwest of Burns, Oregon, on Aug. 5, 2024. It has burned more than 146,000 acres, destroyed 13 homes and 15 other structures. (Courtesy of the 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.

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Oregon governor declares statewide emergency over wildfires

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 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.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek

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.

How to protect yourself from wildfire 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.

Reported wildfires in Oregon

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.

Oregon Capital Chronicle, like the Idaho Capital Sun, is 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.

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Central Floridians are in for an artsy August with a number of events that allow enthusiasts to escape the heat with indoor exhibitions and artistic happenings.

McRae Art Studios hosts its annual 810 sale, while Crealde School of Art invites the community to attend its summer Cup-A-Thon, an annual ceramics sale and social that is now four decades old. Orlando Museum of Art will open its doors for one night with free admission for all.

Meanwhile, Snap! Orlando is gearing up for the opening of Le Salon 2024, and the University Club of Winter Park hosts its first Orlando Chess Open. Here are ways to spend time at chill indoor events this month in Orlando.

McRae Art Studios 810 Sale

This Orlando tradition is held on Aug. 10, bringing affordable and small art to the public. Twenty-two member artists and guest artist Victor Bokas have created a record number of 8x10 artworks for this special show. Browse more than 200 pieces made with acrylic, clay, collage, mixed media, oils, printmaking and watercolor.

Each piece starts at $100, with a silent auction set up in increments of $25 up to $200. A buy now price of $200 is available for enthusiastic collectors. The event helps to raise money for McRae Art Studios to keep rents affordable and help with the upkeep of the space. Light bites and a donation bar are available.

If you go: The McRae Art Studios 810 show opens at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 10, with shopping beginning at 7 p.m. and ending at 8 p.m. at 1000 Arlington St. in Orlando. The event is free to attend and open to the public. More information: mcraeartstudios.art

Crealde School of Art Cup-A-Thon

An annual tradition of 40 years, the Cup-A-Thon is a ceramics sale and social that was first dreamt up by senior faculty member Vincent Sansone. Browse hundreds of cups, bowls and other vessels made by Crealde instructors, artists, students and friends. Those who buy a cup or goblet will have it filled.

If you go: The Crealde School of Art Cup-A-Thon is open from 7-10 p.m. Aug. 9-10 at 600 St. Andrews Blvd. in Winter Park. More information: facebook.com

Orlando Chess Open

The first Orlando Chess Open is hosted by the University Club of Winter Park with $500 total prize money guaranteed for rated sections. The tournament raises money for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Floridas Levy-Hughes Clubhouse. Remaining spots are limited. Registration ranges from $25-$40 depending on the section.

If you go: The Orlando Chess Open begins at 9 a.m. Aug. 10 at 841 N. Park Ave. in Winter Park. More information: orlandochessopen.org

Orlando Museum of Arts Access for All

As part of Orlando Museum of Arts centennial year celebration, the public is invited to visit with free admission from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. every third Thursday of the month. Each event features live performances, educational experiences and more. The featured program for the Aug. 15 event is La CinOMAtheque with the Enzian. Sketching materials will be available to visitors between 5-7 p.m. and a docent-led highlights tour begins at 7 p.m.

If you go: Orlando Museum of Art is open for free from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Aug. 15 at 2416 N. Mills Ave. in Orlando. More information: omart.org

Le Salon 2024

Snap! Orlando opens its latest show, Le Salon 2024, with a presentation of international and regional artists. The exhibition helps viewers revisit art from the past and discover new works. This years showcase features Mark Gmehling, Luis Lazo, Martin Stranka, Tratos, Chris Robb, Annie Scull, Derek Gores, Jacob Bailes, James Hand, Aunia Kahn, Andy Stur, Janessa Douds, Jordan Burchill, Theresa Lucey, Ericka Sobrack and Nicholas Kalemba.

If you go: Le Salon 2024 has its opening reception from 7-10 p.m. Aug. 16 at 420 E. Church St. in Orlando. A donation is suggested while reserving tickets online. More information: snaporlando.com

Enzians Big Lizard Month: A Godzilla Birthday Party

Enzian Theater presents Big Lizard Month: A Godzilla Birthday Party, which celebrates the iconic monsters 70th anniversary. While the showing for the 1954 Godzilla has passed, the theater will show Mothra vs. Godzilla (1964) at noon Aug. 17 and Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (1974) at noon Aug. 31.

If you go: Both showings are at 1300 S. Orlando Ave. in Maitland. Tickets are $12.50 each. More information: enzian.org

Find me @PConnPie on Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com.
FILE- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hand with his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina before their meeting in New Delhi, India, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File)

NEW DELHI (AP)  The dramatic resignation of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina poses a dilemma for Indias government, and the South Asian powerhouse could even see its influence in the region wane, according to experts.

During her 15-year rule, Hasina cultivated deep ties with India, her biggest backer, as she oversaw an economic boom and drew the two countries closer on business, energy and defense. Bangladesh is Indias biggest trade partner in South Asia, with bilateral trade of just under $16 billion.

India will need much political and diplomatic skill in dealing with the consequences of the fall of Sheikh Hasina, which could rattle the geopolitics of the subcontinent, if not reshape it, C. Raja Mohan, a foreign affairs expert, told The Associated Press.

Bangladesh under Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister, was also a safe bet security-wise for India: The 76-year-old was regarded as a secular leader, in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million, who clamped down on anti-India insurgents. She tamed rising threats of Islamic militancy and kept the military in their barracks in a country with a history of army takeovers.

This made Hasinas Bangladesh a critical partner to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the region became increasingly tense with an assertive China at the Himalayan borders, and longtime rival Pakistan with which India fought three wars. Her resignation has left a power vacuum that could be filled by a new government more friendly to China and Pakistan, analysts say, posing a challenge to Modis efforts to make India a regional power, especially as border disputes drag on and heighten tensions with both.

Hasina's Bangladesh was a crucial ally to India in maintaining regional stability, especially as other countries in South Asia have slowly drifted towards China, like Nepal which now has a government more amenable to aligning with Beijings interests. India also faces a similar situation with the Maldives  as it swapped its India-leaning leader with a pro-China one  and Sri Lanka where China's influence remains considerable.

Even though Hasina bolstered ties with New Delhi, she also maintained strong relations with Beijing which has bankrolled a slew of projects in Bangladesh. China is likely to continue to be a critical financial supporter of Bangladesh, especially amid growing economic distress, according to Teneo, a global consulting and advisory firm.

The fall of Hasinas government raises the possibility of Bangladesh realigning itself with China, the firm added in a note.

For the ousted prime minister, India has always been a safe haven. Hasina lived in exile in New Delhi after nearly her entire family was assassinated in 1975, including her father who was Bangladesh's first leader after gaining independence from Pakistan. She landed again in India Monday night after she was chased out of her country. Its not clear if Hasina will remain there.

The protests started peacefully with students demanding an end to a quota system for government jobs but later descended into violence and grew into a broader rebellion against Hasina. Critics say Hasina's heavy-handed approach to muzzling the protests, where at least 300 people died, according to media reports, escalated tensions, leading to her ouster.

Western nations had previously expressed concerns over violations of human rights and press freedoms under Hasina's rule. In January, after she won a fourth consecutive term, the U.S. and the United Kingdom said the polls were not credible, free and fair.

One of the main issues of concern following her resignation is the status of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh, which makes up nearly 8% of Bangladeshs population, according to a 2022 census. Some are worried they could come under attack for being seen as her supporters. They have been targeted in the past during political unrest, especially with the rise of Islamic groups in the 1990s which Hasina helped quash.

The recent protest movement did have a strong anti-India flavor, primarily because the protesters saw India as a strong backer of Hasina, said Subir Bhaumik, a columnist and commentator.

On Tuesday, Indias foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said: What was particularly worrying was that minorities, their businesses and temples also came under attack at multiple locations," he said. "The full extent of this is still not clear."

Jaishankar was referring to reports that had surfaced about attacks targeting minorities following Hasina's ouster. However, they couldn't be independently verified.

Approximately 19,000 Indian nationals live in Bangladesh, including 9,000 students  many of whom have left Bangladesh following the protests, according to the Indian foreign minister.

Following Hasina's escape, Bangladesh's president dissolved Parliament, clearing the way for an interim administration and new elections. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will head Bangladeshs interim government.

But uncertainties in Bangladesh as it tries to rebuild a new government and chart its way forward will be felt in India.

New Delhi would be concerned if the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, the main opposition to Hasina, were to gain power, given its history of supporting insurgent groups in Indias northeastern states and ties with Pakistan, Teneo, the consulting firm, wrote in its note.

The foreign affairs expert, Raja Mohan, agrees: Whether intended or not, New Delhi is far too closely identified with Hasina and the mounting hatred against her is bound to rub off against India."
HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP)  The heavy rainfall that we have been seeing across western Massachusetts on Wednesday has led to a sewage discharge in several areas in Holyoke along the Connecticut River.

Tropical Storm Debby Tracking Map: Remnants head toward Massachusetts

The ten combined sewer overflow locations in Holyoke were discharged into the Connecticut River Wednesday. An estimated 6,712,144 gallons have been released into the river. The discharge of rainwater, untreated sewage, or partially treated sewage has stopped.

According to the report from Veolia Holyoke, the estimated volume is calculated by taking the total overflow volume for the last three years and dividing it by the total number of overflow events for the last three years.

Holyoke has taken steps to address discharging pollutants from combined sewer overflow into the Connecticut River, violating federal and state wastewater discharge permits. A plan to separate wastewater and rainwater drainage systems and eliminate the Jackson Street combined sewer overflow is in the works.

The public is advised to avoid the water in communities bordering the Connecticut River, South Hadley, and Chicopee. This includes swimming, fishing, and boating, for 48 hours after the discharge has stopped due to increased health risks from bacteria and other pollutants.

The rain on Wednesday will come to an end by around noon and clouds will start to break up with some sunshine around this afternoon. It will be a cooler day with highs in the low to mid-70s.

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.

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Over 95% of Ukrainian prisoners of war were tortured in Russia  UN representative

The UN has reported that over 95% of Ukrainian prisoners of war were tortured in Russia. At the same time, the camps for POWs in Ukraine correspond to the norms of international law.

Source: Danielle Bell, Head of Mission for the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU), on the air of the NOS Dutch TV channel

Quote: "[Ukrainian  ed.] prisoners of war are tortured from the very first interrogation. They are beaten with metal rods and sticks, stripped naked and severely electrocuted. This is horrible. This is undoubtedly the worst thing Ive seen in 20 years of my career while visiting the POWs on behalf of the UN.

This happened to more than 95% of Ukrainian POWs. This is tantamount to a war crime."

Details: Bell also revealed that the information regarding Ukrainian prisoners being in Russian captivity was most frequently gathered during interviews after their liberation.

At the same time, the monitoring mission has direct access to Russian POWs and can directly assess the detention facility.

"The Ukrainian authorities grant us access to the camps and temporary prisons for POWs. There were certain problems there in the early days of war, but over the last year and a half we have been documenting the conditions that meet the norms of humanitarian law of war," Bell added.

Background: The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine revealed that the rehabilitation of soldiers after captivity has no time limits.

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HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT)  An Owensboro barbecue restaurant will be raising money in honor of a family member who passed away.

Emily Foreman passed away due to a single vehicle accident one year ago in Louisville. In her honor, Old Hickory BBQ is going to bring back the Emily Burger from August 7 to August 13 to their menu and the proceeds will be donated to Josephs Peace Mission.

On August 7, 2023, we lost our beloved daughter Emily in a tragic accident. Emilys birthday is August 13th, the restaurant said on social media. To celebrate the life of such a truly extraordinary person, August 7th-13th Old Hickory BBQ will bring back the Emily Burger. Emilys life had a huge impact on so many. We will honor her beautiful spirit by donating all proceeds to St. Josephs Peace Mission in her name. Please come enjoy her special burger as we support a great cause and celebrate her life.

Old Hickory BBQ is located at 338 Washington Avenue, Owensboro, Kentucky.

Click here to view the restaurants post.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
Pakistani man with alleged ties to Iran charged in foiled plot to kill US leaders

A Pakistani man with alleged ties to Iran has been charged over a foiled conspiracy to carry out political assassinations on US soil, the justice department said on Tuesday as it disclosed what officials say is the latest murder-for-hire plot to target US public figures.

Asif Merchant, 46, sought to recruit people in the United States to carry out the plot in retaliation for the US killing of Irans Revolutionary Guards top commander, Qassem Soleimani, in 2020, according to a criminal complaint.

Merchant, who prosecutors allege spent time in Iran before traveling to the US from Pakistan, was charged with murder for hire in federal court in New Yorks Brooklyn borough. A federal judge ordered him detained on 17 July, 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.

FBI investigators believe that 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.

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.

Trumps presidential campaign could not immediately be reached for comment.

Trump, the Republican candidate in the 5 November 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 officials thwarted Merchants 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 US, prosecutors allege.

After the failed assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, US officials said that a threat from Iran had prompted the US Secret Service to boost protection around Trump.

At the time, Irans mission to the United Nations dismissed the allegations as unsubstantiated and malicious.
(NewsNation)  A Pakistani man with ties to Iran has been arrested in connection with an alleged plot to assassinate a U.S. politician, the Justice Department announced Tuesday.

Prosecutors say Asif Merchant, also known as Asif Raza Merchant, 46, was arrested in connection with a foiled plot to assassinate a U.S. politician on U.S. soil, allegedly attempting to hire a hit man to do the job.

Law enforcement officers stopped the plan before it could take place, using undercover officers, according to charging documents.

7 US personnel injured in attack on Ain al-Asad airbase in Iraq

This dangerous murder-for-hire plot exposed in todays complaint allegedly was orchestrated by a Pakistani national with close ties to Iran and is straight out of the Iranian playbook, said FBI Director Christopher Wray. 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.

Court documents do not identify any of the potential targets. But U.S. officials acknowledged last month that a threat on Donald Trumps life from Iran prompted additional security in the days before a Pennsylvania rally in which Trump was injured by a gunmans bullet. That July 13 shooting, carried out by a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, was unrelated to the Iran threat and Merchants arrest has no connection to the Trump assassination attempt, a law enforcement official said.

But an FBI agents affidavit suggests Merchant had current or former high-level officials like Trump in mind.

U.S. officials have warned for years about Irans 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 when he was president. The U.S. government since then has paid for security for multiple Trump administration officials, and in 2022, the Justice Department charged an Iranian operative in a foiled plot to kill Bolton.

Merchant is alleged to have contacted someone he believed could help him with the scheme after arriving in the U.S. from Pakistan, having previously spent time in Iran. The person he contacted alerted law enforcement and became a confidential source.

Merchant reportedly told the source that this was not a one-time plan and there would be ongoing opportunities before describing multiple criminal schemes, including stealing documents or USB drives from a target, planning a protest and killing a U.S. politician or government official.

While describing the assassination plot, Merchant made a finger gun motion with his hand, indicating he meant murder, charging documents stated. Merchant said that the people he worked for overseas told him to finalize the plan, so he asked the CS to set up meetings with hit men who could carry out the plot. Merchant stated that he performed Istikharah from Quran before doing this, meaning Merchant prayed to God about whether [he] should do this work or not and received clarity from God to carry out his mission, a court document said.

The documents show he pressed for details on how it would work, noting that the target would have security around them. Merchant allegedly also sought details on how the unnamed politician would be killed in different scenarios. Court documents say he also developed a series of code words to communicate and instructed the source not to write them down.

Man attempts to steal police car with officer inside, video shows

According to investigators, Merchant said he has a wife and children in Pakistan and a wife and children in Iran. He planned to be out of the country by the time the plot took place and said he would communicate with the source from overseas, documents show.

In mid-June, Merchant is said to have met with the purported hit men, who were actually law enforcement officers. After paying the undercover officers $5,000, Merchant allegedly planned to leave the country before the assassination occurred.

He was arrested in July and is in federal custody. During the arrest, an affidavit states that agents found the handwritten note with the code words he intended to use to communicate about the assassination plot. The FBI is investigating the case.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Pakistani national found to have connection to assassination plot, may have targeted Trump

This image provided by the Justice Department, contained in the complaint supporting the arrest warrant, shows Asif Merchant. The 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 Aug. 6, 2024. U.S. Justice Department via Associated Press | AP

The Justice Department has identified and reportedly charged a Pakistani national with ties to Iran who was involved in political assassination plots on U.S. government officials, per CNN.

Asif Merchant, 46, was found to have constructed a detailed plot to kill U.S. government officials, with help from people hed recruited. He revealed his motivation to a confidential source: The people who will be targeted are the ones who are hurting Pakistan and the world, (the) Muslim world. These are not normal people, per unsealed court documents.

The FBI believes the intended targets of the plot were current and former officials, as well as former President Donald Trump, CNN reported.

Merchant is now in federal custody.

How did Asif Merchant plan political assassinations?

The unsealed court documents reveal that Merchant has been working since at least April on assassination plots of U.S. government officials and spent time recruiting help in the U.S. One such potential recruit informed law enforcement and became a confidential source to authorities, ultimately setting him up in a hit man hiring trap.

He disguised the assassination plot as a yarn-dying business out of fear of being recorded or overheard. He frequently spoke in code with the source and would hide the sources phone during meetings. He used words like T-shirt to mean protest and flannel shirt to mean stealing, according to CNN.

Traveling between Houston, Texas and New York, Merchant met the source in person in addition to digital contact.

In May, Merchant offered to pay the source up to $100,000 for his services.

The next month, he revealed his plan to the source, which consisted of three parts: (1) stealing documents or USB drives from a targets home; (2) planning a protest; and (3) killing a politician or government official, per the documents.

He tasked the source with recruiting people for each of the plans stages. He needed 25 people for the protest, which would act as a distraction after the assassination, a reconnaissance woman and men who could do the killing.

From April to July, Merchant communicated in detail with the source regarding his plan, and took action to set it up. Working with the FBI, this culminated in the source connecting Merchant to undercover officers posing as hit men in late June.

On July 12, weeks after paying the hit men an advanced payment and confirming their bond, Merchant attempted to leave the country for Pakistan, where hed wait while the plan was to be carried out in August or September, CNN reported.

Merchant was arrested at his place of residence in New York and officers carried out a search, during which they found a note, written in code he invented to discuss the plot, in his wallet.
Palm Beach County voters face a local ballot question that will determine whether the county continues a 30-year old program that offers property tax abatements to new or expanding businesses for another 10 years, while a "NO" vote ends it on Aug. 31. The Post Editorial Board recommends voters choose "YES." The program has proven its worth and is still needed in the ongoing competition for those select industries that will make a difference in the country.

Voters have twice approved extending the program and should do so again. The targeted firms are carefully chosen and typically big operations. They include aviation and aerospace firms, bioscience and life science businesses, corporate relocations and manufacturers that must create a minimum of 10 new jobs, paying average salaries of at least $72,000 while providing enough capital investment to boost the county tax base and diversifying the local economy.

The Aug. 20 primary includes several key local races and a county ballot question regarding a tax abatement for select businesses.

It gives the county another tool in its toolbox to attract a company to come here that will generate a lot of jobs, Kelly Smallridge, president and CEO of the Palm Beach County Business Development Board told Post reporter Mike Diamond. "It is not really used that often. A company might say that it wants to come but Tennessee, for example, is offering very attractive incentives. This program would allow us to compete with other places."

Business property tax incentives are nothing new. Local and state governments routinely offer such breaks to lure and retain companies and the jobs and revenue they bring into their communities. From 2013 to 2023, the county abatement program provided $6.2 million to six businesses, an investment that seems to have paid off with 2,800 new jobs, another 2,246 retained jobs, along with a capital investment of $428 million.

Smallridge points out that the tax benefits don't start until the applicant gets approval from the Palm Beach County Business Development Board, the Palm Beach County Commission and the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser, which verifies improvements to real property and/or tangible personal property not already on the tax rolls. Even then, the abatements don't start until the jobs and the new facilities are all up and running.

The allocated tax breaks can go up to 10 years but there's no upfront cash payments made to entice applicants, so advocates of the program contend there's not much room for wasting taxpayer money. The county's Department of Housing and Economic Development does check to make sure the companies fulfill their promises. But we recommend that the county's Office of Inspector General independently audit the program so that taxpayers are assured that those who benefit from the tax breaks deserve them.

Palm Beach County has long been a magnet for retirees who have moved from parts of the country where cold temperatures and high taxes prompted them to seek a new home. The area is now witnessing a new migration, this time in the form of small businesses, out of state healthcare facilities, private banking firms and tech start-ups. This new private sector investment is a testimony that our community is an attractive place to do business in Florida.

The signs of growth and potential change are everywhere. Palm Beach County is holding its own in the fierce competition for those firms and industry that will make a demonstrable difference in our community. The longstanding tax abatement program is essential for future development. Voters should extend it by voting YES.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Vote YES on Palm Beach County tax abatement extension
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB)  Panama City Beach City Council members met on Tuesday to begin the budget process for 2024-25.

Some of the highlights include adding new jobs, renovating some parks and facilities, and funding first responders.

City staff members left the meeting a lot more confident about the budget plan. They said their goal is to ensure they are representing the needs of beach residents.

The city manager and assistant city manager have been working with department heads for months now to try and get us the requests. It makes sense. Its for us at the city council to take that final step and make sure from our point of view and from the people were representings point of view, do these projects make sense? Panama City Beach mayor Stuart Tettemer said.

One key goal is adequately funding police and fire protection.

M.B. Miller Pier now offering free parking to locals

The two departments combined budget will be about $31 million, enough to hire more people and upgrade equipment.

The vehicles that the police department has that you mentioned, thats on rotation. If theyre a marked unit, theyre rotated every five years. If theyre not marked units, its every seven years. Fire department, same thing. We built them a brand new fire tower this year. Were putting two new fire stations online. The fire tower is important. Were increasing the manpower there with a fire chief training officer, Panama City Beach City Manager Drew Whitman said.

With help from the TDC, city officials are also planning to add more lifeguards on the beaches.

Theyre going to fund the $330,000 thatll put four additional officers down there on top of our one, Whitman said.

Council members also have their eyes on some quality-of-life projects. They are budgeting for repairs and remodeling at the public library and the Lyndell Conference Center.

There will be a lot of work, especially at the frank brown park. People are going to really appreciate the new pickleball courts and the new skate park thats going in there. We have some new other things that were looking at, potentially new parking at beach access as well as a potential citizen academy, just like Bay County is doing, Whitman said.

Once the council approves the proposed budget, it will be posted on the citys website.

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BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  The man accused of killing a Missouri visitor Friday night on Front Beach Road is back in jail.

State troopers originally arrested 39-year-old Casey Rattan Friday night charging him with DUI manslaughter in the death of 28-year-old Thomas Lyon.

Lyon and his family were in town celebrating his and his wife Makenzies 1st wedding anniversary. They were married in Panama City Beach last year. The couple had also just found out she was pregnant.

Father tragically killed while saving children in Panama City Beach

Witnesses said Rattan was speeding down Front Beach Road as the family was crossing the street. Thomas Lyon pushed 3-children out of the way just before the car hit him.

Rattan is from Panama City Beach.

He posted a $250,000 bond Saturday and was released from the Bay County Jail. Troopers re-arrested him Monday evening on vehicular homicide charges.

The judge released him on his own recognizance on the new charge.

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Panama City man arrested for trying to solicit a minor for sex

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  A Panama City man is behind bars after allegedly trying to solicit a minor for sex.

According to Panama City Police, 49-year-old Juan Monte Martinez sent a sexually explicit text message to a 17-year-old victim on Monday. Police said that message was followed by another asking her to delete the previous one.

The victim never responded, she instead reported Martinez and gave screenshots of the texts to authorities.

Hes charged with solicitation of a minor for sexual conduct. He was arrested on Tuesday and is being held in the Bay County Jail on a $100,000 bond.

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Parents out on bond in childs fatal fall, as tenants seek to sue Independence Towers owner

A 3-year-old boy suffered critical injuries after falling about eight stories out of an apartment window at the high-rise Independence Towers, 728 N. Jennings Road in Independence.

The parents charged in the fatal fall of their 3-year-old son from an apartment window at Independence Towers late last month have been released on bond, court records show.

Moses Lee Bass, 30, was released Tuesday and Destiny Leann Randle, 28, was released Saturday after they each posted a $10,000 bond, according to Jackson County jail records. They are scheduled to appear in court at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Eastern Jackson County Courthouse in Independence.

Prosecutors have charged Bass and Randle each with one count of first-degree endangering the welfare of a child. Prosecutors allege the two failed to protect the toddler from substantial risk, resulting in the death of the child. Other children in the home were placed in state custody and have since been reunited with family.

The boy fell from the window sometime before 10:05 a.m. July 29 at Independence Towers, 728 N. Jennings Road. The child has not been named by officials.

We are not releasing the name yet, this is still an open investigation for our investigations unit, Officer Kelly Rupert, a spokeswoman for the Independence Police Department, said Wednesday. She said she would provide the name when it is able to be released.

A family member has identified the child by his first name, Tidus.

Firefighters found the child lying in the grass outside the building, unconscious but breathing. He was rushed to a local hospital and immediately transferred to Childrens Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. The child was pronounced dead at 12:46 p.m.

Bass allegedly told police that he had known the window was a safety hazard since June 2023, and the children had been able to bypass the locks and get out the window since December, according to court documents. Bass also allegedly told police that he knew one of the children could remove a pole they used to secure the window.

Randle allegedly told police that for months prior to the fatal fall, she tried to get the window fixed by the buildings management, according to court documents. She allegedly said that the window had been in that condition since they moved in approximately a year ago, and that she was concerned one of her children would fall out.

Tenants seek to join lawsuit

Earlier this year, Fannie Mae filed a lawsuit against the buildings owner, 728 N Jennings RD Partners, LLC, seeking an emergency appointment of a receiver. Fannie Mae contended that the buildings owner failed to maintain the building according to their loan agreement.

In May, a Jackson County judge appointed property management company Trigild Inc. as receiver of the property.

The buildings owner has since filed a counterclaim against Fannie Mae, accusing it of breach of contract and breach of good faith and fair dealing.

Meanwhile, a tenant, Anna Heetmann, is asking the court for permission to intervene in the dispute on behalf tenants of the building. Heetmann contends that the buildings owner has consistently, repeatedly, and without any care or concern breached the lease agreements of more than 50 other tenants in the buildings.

Heetmann contends that 728 N Jennings RD Partners, LLC, owned by Parker Webb, breached the agreements by:

Failing to provide adequate heat for the tenants during this past winter.

Failing to provide adequate hot water for the tenants during this past spring.

Failing to provide adequate cool air conditioning during the last several years.

Failing to provide a clean, safe physical environment for the tenants, including but not limited to mold, rodent and pest infestation, water infiltration and degradation of the walls, ceilings and floors.

Failing to address tenant complaints and concerns timely and effectively.

Failing to provide a home for the tenants that complies with the owners duty of habitability.

Heetmann contends the court should allow her to intervene because neither Fannie Mae nor the buildings owner have the ability or legal right to protect her and the other tenants interests and tenant rights.

The buildings owner has filed a response in opposition asking that Heetmanns request be denied.

Among other things, the buildings owner contends Heetmann has no ownership interest in the property, merely a leasehold interest.

Her ambiguous and unsupported claim to have any such an interest in this receivership action is beyond conjecture, the response said. No such interest exists either as a matter of law or equity.

The buildings owner also contend that even if Heetmann had a protectable interest in the property, she has not proven that her interest cant be protected by Fannie Mae or the building owner.

The Stars Noelle Alviz-Gransee contributed reporting.
In Parkinsons, dementia may occur less often or later than believed, study says

On top of living with Parkinsons disease, receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be especially traumatic for patients and their families, Photo by PicsbyAnnyk/Pixabay

NEW YORK, Aug. 7 (UPI) -- People with Parkinson's disease fear developing dementia, but their risk may be less than once believed, or it could strike later than expected in the movement disorder's course, a new study has found.

The study, conducted at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, was published Wednesday in the online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

Researchers undertook the study because "we thought that the most-cited research to date reporting on dementia risk in Parkinson's was potentially flawed," said the study's corresponding author, Dr. Daniel Weintraub, a professor of psychiatry in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

On top of living with Parkinson's disease, receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be especially traumatic for patients and their families, Weintraub said.

This study offers hope, with more optimistic projections of the long-term dementia risk for people with Parkinson's disease. That means a longer time frame to prevent or slow down the onset of cognitive decline in dementia could exist.

Its encouraging that dementia in Parkinson's disease is not universal and arises later than previously perceived, said Dr. Daniel Weintraub, a professor of psychiatry in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Photo courtesy of Dr. Daniel Weintraub

It is commonly reported that dementia occurs in up to 80% of patients with Parkinson disease, but this information came from studies published more than two decades ago, included relatively small numbers of participants and harbored other limitations, researchers noted.

"This study is more rigorous in multiple ways," Weintraub said, as it incorporates data from two large, ongoing, observational studies. It's encouraging, he said, that "dementia in Parkinson's disease is not universal" and arises later than previously perceived.

A new study conducted at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia looks at Parkinson's and dementia and was published Wednesday in the online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. Image by Gundula Vogel from Pixabay

In one of those studies -- an international investigation called the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative -- 417 participants (65% male) with an average age of 62 had received a new diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and had not yet undergone treatment at the time of entry.

The other study -- at the University of Pennsylvania -- included 389 people with Parkinson's who averaged 69 years in age. They were diagnosed an average of six years before the study began, and researchers monitored for possible development of dementia.

In the international study, researchers estimated a 9% probability of a dementia diagnosis 10 years after Parkinson's disease was diagnosed.

However, in the Pennsylvania study, researchers estimated a 27% probability of participants being diagnosed with dementia 10 years following a Parkinson's diagnosis. The estimated risk of dementia was 50% 15 years after a Parkinson's diagnosis and 74% 20 years after diagnosis.

Factors that raised the risk of dementia in the Pennsylvania study included older age at the time of Parkinson's diagnosis, male sex and a lower level of education, researchers said.

They also acknowledged a limitation of both studies -- that participants were highly educated and primarily White people recruited for research purposes, so they may differ from the general population.

"Screening for cognitive abilities in Parkinson's disease should start at the time of diagnosis and should occur annually," Weintraub said. In addition, "There remains a great need to develop options for treating or preventing Parkinson's-related cognitive impairment."

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research and numerous funding partners supported the international study. The National Institute on Aging funded the University of Pennsylvania portion.

"This is an impressive study of dementia in Parkinson's disease. Most people think of Parkinson's disease as a motor disorder, but it can have cognitive symptoms, as well," said Dr. Nandakumar Narayanan, a professor of neurology at University of Iowa Health Care in Iowa City. He was not involved in the study.

"Dementia and these cognitive symptoms continue to be an important problem in Parkinson's disease, and healthcare providers should be aware of them," Narayanan said.

However, he noted that there are "wide margins of errors" in this study's estimates, so more information would be necessary to gauge and reduce any particular patient's specific risk.

"Dementia is one of the most dreaded non-motor manifestations of Parkinson's disease -- and justifiably so, since it is an important contributor to disability, poor quality of life, caregiver burnout and death," said Dr. Guy Schwartz, co-director of the Stony Brook Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center at Stony Brook Medicine on Long Island, N.Y.

Yet, effective treatments for dementia associated with Parkinson's disease are lacking, unlike treatments for its motor symptoms, Schwartz noted.

Meanwhile, patients "are often times preoccupied" with the prospective "loss of independence, compromised ability to communicate, inability to enjoy hobbies and fear of nursing home institutionalization," among other possible upcoming challenges, he said.

The study also found dementia is more common in men than women, Schwartz pointed out, raising the question of whether hormonal factors can give rise to this loss of cognitive functioning.

Dr. Michael Okun, national medical adviser to the Parkinson's Foundation, stressed the importance of being "extremely cautious in the interpretation of studies examining long-term dementia risk in Parkinson's disease."

"Though we would welcome news of declining rates of dementia in Parkinson's, we should be careful about drawing conclusions prematurely," said Okun, who also is director of the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at the University of Florida Health in Gainesville.

"Who we recruit for studies, and what criteria we use to define dementia, can significantly skew results in one direction or another."
Parole denied for former UAH Professor convicted in wifes 2006 murder

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT)  A former UAH professor convicted in his wifes murder has been denied parole, according to the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles (ABBP).

In 2009, a jury convicted Andrew Pakhomov for the murder of his wife. He was sentenced to 45 years in the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) and has served just over 15 years.

State of Alabama to allow execution of convicted murderer via nitrogen gas

He had a parole hearing on Tuesday, and the ABBP says Pakhomov was denied parole.

Pakhomov strangled his wife, Yelena Zakin, in May 2006 and dumped her body in the Tennessee River.

The jury determined the physics professor killed his wife after she wrecked his office following her finding him with another woman. A fisherman found her body a few days later in the river, partially submerged.

Huntsville attorney Robert Tuten represented Pakhomov during his 2009 trial.

A State Appeals Court denied his request for post-conviction relief filed under Rule 32 on October 19, 2015. Then, the Alabama Supreme Court denied his appeal on May 20, 2016.

Pakhomov will be eligible for parole again on August 1, 2029.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Pensacola native Patrick Emmanuel's entrance into World War II began when his unit, the 630th Tank Destroyer Battalion attached to the 28th Infantry Division, landed at Omaha Beach in Normandy, France, in late July,1944, six weeks after D-Day. A month later, Emmanuel and his battalion marched down the famed Avenue des Champs-Elysees in the massive and joyous parade celebrating the liberation of Paris from German control. Victory in Europe was on the horizon. But there would still be heavy fighting ahead.

Emmanuel, only 24 at the time, would be in the thick of it.

Just hours after the triumphant parade in Paris, Emmanuel and his unit were in the fight against German troops just outside the city. It would get worse from there.

Emmanuel, a prominent Pensacola attorney as well as a World War II hero, died Wednesday, July 31. He was 104 years old. While he was well-known and respected as an attorney in Northwest Florida  the "Emmanuel" in Emmanuel, Sheppard and Condon  his military career is less known in Pensacola. And as our World War II heroes die away, it's important to remember their enduring contributions.

Patrick Emmanuel, center, participated in three of War World War II's major battles, the Battle of Hurtgen Forest, Battle of the Bulge, and the Seizure of the Remagen Bridge.

The Battle of Hurtgen Forest near the German-Belgian border was the longest single battle the U.S. Army has ever fought, lasting from mid-September to mid-December 1944. The battle is known for some of the most intense fighting of World War II and has been referred to as "the Forgotten Meat Grinder," "the Death Factory" and a "Green Hell." More than 30,000 Americans died in the battle.

Emmanuel was there.

When the battle was finally over, Emmanuel and his battalion were sent to the Ardennes, a forested region in Belgium and Luxembourg and which extends into Germany and France. The plan was to rest and regroup after the heavy fighting in the Hurtgen Forest.

It was December in the Ardennes and all was quiet. But history buffs know what happened there next: The Battle of the Bulge, Germany's last-gasp offensive launched on Dec. 16, 1944, through the thick of the Ardennes, which most Allied leaders considered too impenetrable for any attack.

Within two weeks of fighting in the Ardennes, the U.S. Army largely halted the German offensive, though fighting in the "Battle of the Bulge" would continue through late January.

Emmanuel was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in the battle in the Ardennes.

Patrick Gibney Emmanuel was born Jan. 25, 1920, in Pensacola to George Joseph Emmanuel and Mary Josephine Gibney Emmanuel. He attended the University of Florida beginning at age 16. In 1940, he received his bachelors degree in business administration, then completed two years in the College of Law until he was old enough to accept his Army ROTC commission. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945 before returning for his final year of law school.

"He graduated from high school when he was only 16 and went off to Gainesville," said son Patrick "Rick" Emmanuel Jr. "He did a couple of years of law school and then went to Europe."

Previously: Pensacola WWII veteran, decorated attorney celebrates 100th birthday

After the war, the Army major returned to the University of Florida and earned a law degree in 1946. He soon the joined the Pensacola law firm of Holsberry and Holsberry and in 1947 he was made a partner in the Holsberry, Holsberry and Emmanuel firm, which would later become Emmanuel, Sheppard and Condon. He practiced law for 65 years before retiring in 2014.

"Patrick Emmanuel is a giant in the Northwest Florida legal community," said former Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson. "The sheer number of clients and attorneys he has worked with made his influence and impact great. To put the impact and longevity in perspective, Mr. Emmanuel became a member of the Florida Bar on the same day as my grandfather, Grover Robinson Jr. and I was able to provide (Emmanuel) a retirement proclamation as a (Escambia County) Commissioner and 100th birthday proclamation as mayor."

Robinson said that Emmanuel would be on the Mount Rushmore of the Northwest Florida legal community, along with Dixie Beggs, who died in 2001, and Fred Levin, who died in 2021.

Emmanuel served his country, and, his community. For many years, he served on the board of directors and as pro bono legal counsel for Northwest Florida Childrens Home and on the advisory board of Sacred Heart Hospital.

At the 43rd annual PACE Awards in 2002, the Pensacola Chamber of Commerce gave Emmanuel its Spirit of Pensacola Award." The Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola and the UWF College of Business awarded him its Ethics in Business Award" in 2004.

In 1987, he was awarded The Florida Bar Presidents Pro Bono Service Award. In 2001, The Florida Bar Foundation awarded Patrick its Medal of Honor. Emmanuel had previously served as president of the Florida Bar and the Florida Bar Foundation.

Emmanuel died in the same Pensacola home he and his wife had lived in since 1964. His wife of 74 years, Olvia Emmanuel, died on Sept. 7, 2022 at the age of 101. She too passed in the family home.

The couple has six surviving children, Deborah, Patrick ("Rick") Jr., Robert, Barbara, Stephen and John. Their daughter Mary Jo died in 2012 and another daughter, Suzanne, died at birth. The Emmanuels leave 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Patrick Emmanuel, one of the partners at the Emmanuel Sheppard and Condon Law firm, show off a photo of his younger self during World War II. Emmanual celebrated his 100th birthday with friends and family at Veteran Memorial Park on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020. He participated in three of War World War II's major battles, the Battle of Hurtgen Forest, Battle of the Bulge, and the Seizure of the Remagen Bridge.

All four of Emmanuel's sons would become attorneys.

"He grew up in Cottage Hill by the paper mill," Patrick "Rick" Emmanuel Jr. said of his father. "He went to Cottage Hill grammar school, a two-room school where there were hybrid grades, and that allowed him to skip two grades."

He would graduate from eighth grade early and then attend St Michael's High School  he was a devout Catholic  a precursor to Pensacola Catholic High School, graduating at age 16. Then to Gainesville and the war and then to law, and, always, family.

"It's just amazing that he was 94 when he retired,'' Rick Emmanuel said. "He always worked so hard to support us and as a kid, I didn't understand why he was always working. He worked to take care of his family."

After seeing so much darkness in World War II, Emmanuel approached the rest of his life with a consistency and brightness not soured by the carnage of war.

"It was his steady hand, his steady outlook that made him special," Rick Emmanuel said. "He always had the right word and I remember several times him saying to me, 'Most of the time, bad things don't happen.' "

A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 1212 E. Moreno St., with a reception following in the parish hall. Emmanuel will be buried in a private ceremony at Holy Cross Cemetery.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola attorney Patrick Emmanuel dies at 104
Rep. Patty Lewis has won the contentious Democratic primary race for Missouri State Senates 7th district Tuesday night.

Lewis, an ICU nurse, healthcare executive, and the current Democratic State Representative for District 25, was first elected to the Missouri State House in 2020. She will now face off against Republican Joey LaSalle in the general election.

The 7th district is a key region for Kansas City, including prominent areas such as Union Station, Westport, the Country Club Plaza, Brookside and Waldo. The district was previously held by former Democratic Sen. Greg Razer, who vacated his seat after Gov. Mike Parson appointed him to the State Tax Commission in April.

The Associated Press called the race just after 10:30 p.m. Lewis spent most of the night with a two-thirds lead over Contreras, and ended with about 67% of the votes with 87% of ballots counted, according to unofficial results released Tuesday night.

Lewis bested Contreras, vice president of business development at McCownGordon Construction, who faced off with her as the other Democrat on the primary ballot. Each campaigned on womens rights, including the right to choose and to have full access to reproductive health.

Lewis built up a broad swath of support and was endorsed by a slew of Kansas City-area lawmakers, according to previous reporting by The Star. She was also backed by prominent organizations such as Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes, the Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO and PROMO Missouri, the states major LGBTQ rights advocacy group.

I first ran for State Rep for the same reason that I became a nurse: because I wanted to help people, Lewis said in a statement prior to the primary election. In the last four years, Ive gotten a lot done for the people of Kansas City and I look forward to continuing to help as their State Senator.

The Stars Kacen Bayless reporting was used in this article.
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)  The Permian Basin Area Foundation recently announced $1.3 million in scholarship awards and educational support for the 2024-2025 academic school year.

The Foundation said it celebrates more than 400 scholars from communities throughout West Texas. Additionally, there were 79 four-year scholarship recipients who graduated during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Since its inception in 1989, the Area Foundation said it has awarded more than $8.1 million to students pursuing higher education. You can find a full list of recipients on the Permian Basin Area Foundation 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 Yourbasin.
SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI)  U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, Congressman Seth Magaziner and members of the South Kingstown community gathered Tuesday to celebrate $700,000 in funding for planned renovations at the historic Peace Dale Library.

Officials said the federal earmark secured by Reed and Magaziner will be used to create a new, fully accessible community space with free and reliable high-speed internet access, flex meeting spaces, independent workstations, and dedicated teaching spaces, as well as upgrade the librarys HVAC, lighting and sprinkler systems.

An image of a blueprint showing the proposed floor plans for the library.

Public libraries are about so much more than books, Reed said in a press release. They are places where Rhode Islanders can unlock opportunities, discover new passions, and create new connections.

The Peace Dale Library is an invaluable resource that provides Rhode Islanders with a safe and welcoming place to read, work and learn, Magaziner added.

The library also received $2.5 million in ARPA funding earlier this year, which in addition to renovations will also support educational and workforce training programs.

Library programming focused on workforce growth, health monitoring and educational support will have a tremendous impact on our residents and our community, Town Manager James Manni said. Thanks to this federal funding, well be able to enhance the space dedicated within the Peace Dale Library for our Community Learning Center program, while also expanding our offerings.

The town said its gathering feedback from the public to ensure the upgrades to the library best fit the communitys needs.

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The peak of the Perseids is almost here. Here is how to watch the sky event

If you have yet to stargaze this summer, the Perseid meteor shower this month is your next chance to look skyward.

Perseid meteor shower

The Perseid meteor shower is commonly known as the Perseids and is an annual event usually visible from mid-July to late August, according to Space.com.

The Perseid are considered the best meteor shower of the year, according to NASA, and are characterized by swift and bright meteors that leave long trails of light and color in their wake as they streak through Earths atmosphere.

With about 50 to 100 meteors seen every hour, Perseids are one of the most plentiful meteor showers around. They also are known for their fireballs, which are larger explosions of light and color that last longer than an average meteor streak, according to NASA.

How did the Perseid meteor shower get its name?

A meteor crosses the night sky and the milky way on early August 12, 2018 over Einsiedl, southern Germany, during the annual Perseid meteor shower.

Meteor showers are named after the constellation from which the meteors appear to come from. From Earth, the Perseids appear to stem from the constellation Perseus near the famous Double Cluster, according to NASA.

The Perseids are a result of Earth passing through debris, bits of ice and rock, left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle, which last passed close to Earth in 1992, reports EarthSky.org.

When to watch the Perseid meteor shower

EarthSky.org reports that the Perseids will peak around Aug. 11 through Aug. 13 this year, when Earth travels through the dustiest and densest parts of the debris. It is possible to view them in the days before and after the peak, but the turnout may not be as good.

The meteor shower is best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere during predawn hours, but some areas may get to see the action as early as 10 p.m., according to NASA.

Those tuning in for the Perseid may also see stray meteors from the Delta Aquarids that peaked in late July.

Where to stargaze in Delaware: Places to stargaze, view an eclipse, watch meteor showers and more in Delaware

How to watch the Perseids

The most important ingredient in a meteor shower watch party is dark skies.

Once you have that, the only thing left to do is get comfortable and patiently wait for the show to begin. Unlike some other astronomical events, you do not need a telescope or specialized gear to view the Perseids.

NASA advises giving your eyes 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness to maximize your viewing experience.

And if youre feeling a bit sleepy, you may want to bring an energy drink. The Perseids have a velocity of 37 miles per hour, which means you could miss them in the blink of an eye.

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Details on Perseid meteor shower, including when it is, how to watch
Peggy Flanagan in line to be first US female Indigenous governor if Harris and Walz win

Peggy Flanagan, Minnesotas lieutenant governor, could become the first US female Indigenous governor if Kamala Harriss vice-presidential pick, Tim Walz, resigns from office. Walz can continue serving as the states governor until the November election, but if he and Harris are successful, Flanagan will take over his gubernatorial duties.

In fact, a series of firsts would be triggered should the Harris-Walz ticket win: Harris would become the nations first woman, first Black woman and first person of Indian descent to ascend to the countrys top office. Flanagan, already the highest-ranking Native woman in a state-level executive office, would become Minnesotas first female governor and the first Indigenous woman to serve as governor of a US state. And Minnesotas senate president, Bobby Joe Champion, would become Minnesotas first Black lieutenant governor.

Considered an advocate for children, working families and Indigenous communities, Flanagan, a member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, has had a tenure as lieutenant governor that reflects her support for historically marginalized Minnesotans.

In June, Flanagan and Tina Smith, a US senator, announced the first international United States Department of Agriculture trade mission focused on amplifying Indigenous products. Flanagan advocated for free breakfast and lunch in Minnesota schools, which Walz signed into law in March 2021. And in 2019, Walz signed a bill, of which Flanagan was a champion, to launch the first official meeting of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Task Force.

Too often native women at best are invisible and, at worst, we are disposable, Flanagan has said. That must and that will change.

Flanagan also advocated to establish the countrys first Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Office, which Walz signed into law legislation in 2021. And last December, Flanagan was voted in as chair of the Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association (DLGA), becoming the first Indigenous woman to lead a party committee.

Our democracy functions best when it accurately reflects the community and seeks to represent, Flanagan said at the time. And so for a very long time, women, people of color, Indigenous folks were not at decision-making tables, and too many decisions were made without us. I think if were going to have strong policies and strong outcomes for communities, women and Bipoc folks need to be at the table.

Flanagan, a former Minneapolis school board member, a previous staffer at Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches division of Indian work, and a past executive director of Childrens Defense Fund-Minnesota, successfully ran for the states house of representatives in 2015. In 2017, she became a founding member of the states first People of Color and Indigenous Caucus, according to her official bio.

As a University of Minnesota student, Flanagan organized the urban Indigenous community for Paul Wellstones 2002 US Senate campaign. She graduated from the university that year with a degree in American Indian studies and child psychology.

Just two days after Biden bowed out of the 2024 race, Flanagan hosted the first Native American campaign event for the Harris for President campaign.

Great Native Voters for Harris event in Phoenix! Arizona may decide the election, but one thing is for sure: Native voters will decide Arizona, Flanagan wrote on X. In a packed room, I was honored to kick off the first-ever surrogate event for Harris 2024 in the country! Lets go, @KamalaHarris!

Later she spoke during a Native women and Two Spirit for Harris virtual call, which connected Indigenous leaders and people from across the country in rallying behind the Democratic nominee.

I think Native voters are going to make the difference again, Flanagan said on the call. We are strategically located in swing states all across the country, and I know that when Indian Country shows up, we win.
CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ)  Pennsylvania Highlands Community College will be hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil its new Centre County location.

The new location, 190 Match Factory Place in Bellefonte, will be unveiled on Friday, Aug. 16 at 10:30 a.m. Speakers for the ceremony include Penn Highlands President Dr. Steve Nunez, College Board of Trustees Chairperson Greg Winger, Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County President Greg Scott, and Bellefonte Borough Manager and College Board of Trustees Member Ralph Stewart.

PennDOT announces Centre County I-80 traffic pattern change

It is with great excitement that Penn Highlands Community College is opening a new educational location in Bellefonte to serve all of Centre County, Nunez said. We hope the residents of the County can visit us during the open house, where they will be treated with seeing our beautiful, state-of-the art educational facility and the opportunity to gain information from our faculty and staff.

An open house will follow the ceremony, from noon until 2 p.m. Attendees will be able to tour the facility, ask questions and meet Penn Highlands faculty and staff.

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The location of the new college is in the historic Match Factory and spans 5,200 square feet. Its Penn Highlands seventh site.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (WTAJ)  A Pennsylvania-based home care agency was ordered by a federal judge to pay $129,697 in back wages to 66 aides.

Blue Ridge Home Care Inc., headquartered in Philadelphia and Dover, Delaware, was ordered to pay the back wages and damages after an investigation revealed they willfully denied paying the 66 home health aides overtime.

In addition, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania required the company to pay $49,434 in civil money penalties to the U.S. Department of Labor. Prior to the judgment, the department said Blue Ridge already paid $100,00 in back wages owed to the same 66 workers.

UPMC laying off approximately 1,000 people

Home care professionals deliver vital, quality-of-life services to some of our communities most vulnerable people; they deserve our respect and to be paid fully for their labor, Wage and Hour Division District Director James J. Cain said. Our investigations found Blue Ridge Home Care Inc. denied overtime pay earned by dozens of aides they employed, and weve taken action to recover  on average  more than $3,400 in back wages and liquidated damages for each of the 66 affected workers.

Through the departments investigation, they said company president Tunji Ogunmola admitted he negotiated with employees to accept an extra $1 to $1.50 per hour on top of their normal pay to avoid paying federally mandated overtime time.

The U.S. Department of Labor will not hesitate to litigate against an employer in federal court to recover unpaid wages and liquidated damages theyre owed and to protect their rights and protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act, Regional Solicitor Samantha Thomas said. The outcome in this case shows employers face costly consequences for violations of federal overtime pay requirements.

Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices.

Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division, including a search tool to use if you think you may be owed back wages collected by the division and how to file an online complaint. For confidential compliance assistance, employees and employers can call the agencys toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243), regardless of where they are from.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  A rescue task force from Pennsylvania will be heading to North Carolina to assist as Tropical Storm Debby moves through the southeast.

There will be 45 members and support personnel from PA-Task Force 1 who will be deployed to the Tar Heel State and report in Raleigh where they will receive further instructions, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency announced Wednesday.

This storm is bringing historic flooding to parts of the Atlantic Coast of the United States, PEMA Director Randy Padfield said. We are ready to support our fellow Americans both now and during their recovery in the weeks and months ahead.

Hurricane Debby blew $1 million worth of cocaine onto Florida beach

PA-TF1, a member of the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System, is a federal resource that can be quickly mobilized to any incidents in the country.

Today, 45 members of PA-Task Force 1 were deployed to North Carolina to support federal response operations in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, Governor Josh Shapiro said. My Administration is proud to support federal response operations with this elite search and rescue team to assist first responders. Our Commonwealth stands ready to help North Carolina  and any state thats affected by this storm  get back on their feet.

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Pennsylvania is expected to see heavy rain Thursday into Friday from remnants of Tropical Storm Debby and residents are encouraged to look out for potential flooding over the next several days.

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(WTAJ)  Finding a pharmacy throughout many areas of the country, including Central Pennsylvania, became a challenge amid a nationwide trend that local pharmacists called a prescription for trouble.

Whether for picking up daily medications, antibiotics when sick or receiving a vaccine, local pharmacies can be the first stop for health care for many.

Many times were to answer questions  whether or not they have to go to an urgent care, because here that drive is really sometimes a hindrance to seeking care that is needed. They can come in, you know, if they have a call, we say, You need to go see a doctor. You need a chest x-ray. You need an antibiotic,' said Joe Breton, owner of Northern Bedford Pharmacy.

But for many pharmacists, like Breton, theres concern that they could face the same fate as hundreds of other pharmacies across the nation  closure.

Major chains like Rite Aid, undergoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and CVS, which began closing locations inside of Target stores in February have effectively shuttered thousands of locations nationwide. Walgreens announced that in June that it is working to finalize business plans that could result in closing hundreds of underperforming stores over the next three years.

Since the start of 2024, over 140 pharmacies have closed in Pennsylvania, half of which were independent local pharmacies. The empty storefronts join the nearly 7,000 pharmacies across the nation that have closed since 2019 causing towns in every state to turn into pharmacy deserts.

READ MORE: As pharmacies shutter, some Western states, Black and Latino communities are left behind

I think if I was not here, at least the southern end southern Blair County, northern Bedford County would be a desert, Breton said.

The impact of the closures is a major loss of services.

These community pharmacies often have a delivery service, so they will deliver. You know, some of the older folks cant get out. They cant drive. They dont have a way of picking up their prescriptions, said Senator Judy Ward (R-30th District).

For most pharmacies, closure was inevitable due to financial challenges, mainly profit loss, caused by pharmacy benefits managers (PBM), who are the middlemen of the pharmaceutical supply chain.

Ward, along with Representative Jessica Benham (D-36th District) co-sponsored House Bill 1993, amending the Pharmacy Audit Integrity and Transparency Act.

The bi-partisan bill will curb some of the profit loss by eliminating the predatory practices PBMs engage in. One change in particular is that PBMs are now banned from requiring policyholders to purchase drugs through outlets controlled by the PBM, which often charges pharmacies a price that is more than what a consumer would pay. Another provision requires PBMs to meet federal Medicare access standards.

And the good people of Pennsylvania keep getting screwed with higher costs and reduced access to the medications that they need. And during all of that, PBMs, they got richer and they made record profits. Well, we dont want to stand for that any longer, said Governor Josh Shapiro before signing the bill into law in July.

Even though the legislation is helping to bridge the deficit, Breton said that this is only the first of many necessary steps.

This is not the stopgap needed, Breton said. This is a good, a very good start. What is lacking from this legislation  and even though this legislation that was passed does say that a PBM has to pay me the same as they pay another affiliated pharmacy  but what it doesnt do is, theres not a reimbursement floor.

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All provisions of the new law will go into effect in November. Local pharmacists said they are doing everything they can to remain open until then, hoping for more legislation and a better fiscal year in 2025.

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Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct an error regarding a nuisance complaint filed against a Perry Township motel.

PERRY TWP.  Police are investigating a shooting that occurred Sunday at the Chase Motel, 3400 Lincoln Way East.

"The incident occurred in the early morning hours, resulting in one individual being shot in the arm," Police Chief Bryan D. Taylor said in a press release issued Wednesday afternoon.

He said officers arrived promptly on the scene.

"The involved individual was provided immediate assistance and transported to a local hospital by the Perry Township Fire Department," Taylor said. "We are grateful for the assistance provided by the Canton Metro SWAT Team, whose professionalism and expertise contributed to the management of the situation."

Taylor said the investigation is ongoing.

Perry Inn: Perry Township officials take Perry Inn to court over continuous 'nuisance' incidents

"We are committed to conducting a thorough and detailed inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident," he said. "This is an active investigation, no further details can be disclosed at this time."

Reach Nancy at 330-580-8382 or nancy.molnar@cantonrep.com. On X, formerly known as Twitter: @nmolnarTR.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Perry Township police investigating shooting at Chase Motel
UPDATE: After Tuesdays shooting, the Longview Police Department is seeking information as the case remains under investigation.

Longview PD said the teenage victim was found at around 6 p.m. with an apparent gunshot wound and taken to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.

Anyone with information can contact the police department at 903-237-1110 or Gregg County Crime Stoppers at 903-236-7867.

LONGVIEW, Texas (KETK)  The Longview Police Department is currently investigating a shooting on Hubbard Drive that has left one person with life-threatening injuries.

Former East Texas coach convicted of inappropriately touching students, using Snapchat to exchange photos

Longview Police Public Information Officer Brandon Thornton said the shooting took place around 6 p.m. on Tuesday at the 100 block of Hubbard Drive.

Longview PD at Hubbard Drive at around 9:50 p.m.

Thornton said the person injured was taken to a local hospital and police are actively investigating.

This is a developing story, we will have more details as they are released.

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Petition formed after the death of a child in Evansville

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  Indiana native, Linda Alvarez, creates a petition in hopes of holding future witnesses of child abuse accountable.

Alvarez is the grandmother of 4-year old, Octavia Aquino, who died in Evansville after experiencing blunt force trauma to the head and neck.

Charges filed following the death of a 4-year old

Destiney Rhoades, Aquinos mother, and Christian Gonzalez, Rhoades boyfriend, are currently facing charges in connection to the childs death.

In the petition, Alvarez writes Rhoades roommates allegedly noticed the signs of abuse but did not report until the child was found unresponsive. She believes Octavia would still be alive if the roommates contacted authorities sooner.

The goal of the petition is said to legally obligate anyone who witnesses any form of child abuse or neglect to report it promptly to the police and Child Protective Services.

Rhoades is charged with neglect of a dependent that resulted in death. Her next court appearance is set for September 25.

Gonzales is charged with the childs murder. His jury trial is set for December 2.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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).
Heres what PG&E wants you to pay to keep Diablo Canyon open. Is it worth it? | Opinion

PG&E has filed for yet another rate increase, this time to pay for the continued operation of the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant near San Luis Obispo.

Starting in 2025, the average PG&E customer will pay an additional $2.07 per month if the California Public Utilities Commission grants the request.

That may sound like a drop in the bucket  after all, the average PG&E bill for electricity is over $200 per month  but many Californians have already reached their spending limit, so much so that Gov. Gavin Newsom is working on a plan to lower utility bills.

Its not just PG&E ratepayers who will be stuck with higher bills on account of Diablo Canyon.

Under state legislation that extended plant operations for five years  until 2030  customers of other utility companies also are on the hook. For Southern California Edison ratepayers, that works out to an additional $1.25 per month, and for San Diego Gas and Electric customers, its 87 cents.

And thats just for 2025.

Escalating estimates

PG&E hasnt said what rate increases may be needed in later years, but consumer watchdog organizations warn that it could be even more, based on estimates of what it will cost to keep the plant running five more years.

PG&Es estimate started at $5.2 billion in May 2023, then jumped to $8.1 billion just a couple of months later. The companys most recent estimate is $8.3 billion.

Thats too low, according to organizations that worked out their own calculations.

The Alliance for Nuclear Responsibility, a nonprofit founded in San Luis Obispo County where the plant is located, estimates it will cost $9.8 billion. (It revised an earlier estimate of $11.8 billion.)

In a rate protest sent to the CPUC, the Alliance accused PG&E of gross negligence or recklessness, if not willful misrepresentation for underestimating costs.

PG&E denies that. In a written response to the CPUC, it says its earliest estimate excluded several costs, which it made clear at the time the figures were provided.

Organizations protesting the rate increase also object to the timing of a decision.

PG&E wants the CPUC to make a decision by Dec. 5, so that rate increases can take effect in early 2025.

Opponents say thats not enough time, given the lengthy process that includes testimony, rebuttal testimony, the possibility of evidentiary hearings, prepared testimony and responses, a proposed decision, comments on the proposed decision, replies to the comments and, at last, a final decision.

Does California need nuclear power?

The bigger issue, though, is whether Diablo Canyons 2,200 megawatts of nuclear energy are still needed.

The five-year extension, which was supported by both the governor and the Legislature, was intended to be a bridge that would keep the lights on until clean energy sources ramped up.

Some anti-nuclear activists and consumer groups say thats already happened; over the past few years, several new wind, solar and battery storage projects have come online.

Battery storage, for instance, has increased from 500 megawatts in 2018 to more than 10,300 megawatts, with an additional 3,800 megawatts expected to come online by the end of 2024, according to the California Energy Commission.

Gov. Newsom celebrated that achievement in April at a battery storage facility in Yolo County.

This is our biggest power source in California  significantly bigger than the last remaining nuclear plant in the state of California, Newsom said, according to an April 25 article in The Hill.

The governor went on to warn that blackouts are not part of our past, however, and some energy experts point out that there will be more pressure on the grid as Californians transition to electric vehicles and all-electric buildings.

Ratepayers deserve answers

Still, some consumer advocacy groups are calling on legislators like state Sen. John Laird, who represents the Central Coast, to reexamine whether there really is a need to keep Diablo Canyon open past 2025.

Laird, a Democrat, was closely involved in the effort to extend the plants operating life.

The question of whether Diablo Canyon Power Plant should continue to operate until 2030 is a momentous question, which leads to two additional momentous questions: First, is Diablos energy really necessary to ensure Californias grid reliability, in light of all the new renewable energy projects online? Second, is this a wise move for ratepayers?, he said in a Wednesday email to McClaltchy editorial boards.

In answer to the first question, I have to defer to the experts: the California Energy Commission (CEC). Right now, CEC is telling us that Diablos energy is needed until 2030  but if that position changes, so will mine.

In answer to the second question, I request that the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) consider this very carefully. CPUC is charged with ensuring reliable utility services at reasonable rates. Can Diablos energy be delivered at reasonable cost to the already stressed California ratepayers? If not, we need to rethink the plants immediate future.

Are you listening, CPUC?

Ratepayers deserve to know what it will cost to keep Diablo Canyon operating  and how much their rates are likely to increase over the extended life of the plant  as well as whether there is already enough replacement energy online to make up for the loss of nuclear power.

Paying to keep Diablo Canyon running will be less painful if ratepayers are convinced that the lights wont stay on without it.

If thats not the case, then it is, as Sen. Laird says, time to rethink the plants immediate future.

This editorial represents the views of the editorial boards at The Sacramento Bee, Fresno Bee, Modesto Bee, Merced Sun-Star and The Tribune in San Luis Obispo.
Village Pharmacy on the main drag in Red Cloud, Neb. Heather Ockinga, its owner, said the practices of massive health conglomerates threaten to drive it and many other small-town pharmacies out of business. (Photo by Marty Schladen, Ohio Capital Journal.)

RED CLOUD, Neb.  This far-flung town in southern Nebraska has an advantage its neighbors must envy.

Its favorite daughter, Willa Cather, was a literary giant of the early 20th century. Her legacy brings a steady stream of writers, artists and biology-and-birder types who split time between this small town (population 962) and the spring stopover of endangered sandhill cranes in the Platte River Valley to the north.

But step into Village Pharmacy just two doors down from the National Willa Cather Center on the main drag and youll learn that its struggling to stay in business just like small pharmacies in even more isolated towns scattered across the rolling green prairie. Those struggles threaten to make a pharmacy  and even a healthcare  desert of a huge portion of rural Nebraska, said the owner, Heather Ockinga, who is also a member of the Nebraska Rural Health Board.

Nebraska is hardly alone.

The number of small-chain and independent pharmacies had already been declining precipitously when Rite Aid announced late last month that it was closing hundreds of pharmacies in Ohio and Michigan  with more sure to come in the 14 other states where the bankrupt chain operates. Just after that announcement, retail giant Walgreens said it was planning to close 25%  or more than 2,000  stores nationally.

As the companies look to close underperforming stores, theres little doubt that many or most of them will be in poor or isolated communities.

The closures are the consequence of the squeeze put on pharmacies by middlemen that are part of massive and rapidly growing health conglomerates, Ockinga said. And community pharmacies like hers have been feeling that squeeze for years.

I dont think people paid attention to it, Ockinga said. A lot of pharmacies around the states have closed. But when people heard about Rite Aid and Walgreens, they realized that pharmacy is in trouble. Well weve been in trouble. Independent pharmacies have been closing for years because of insurance companies that own the middlemen.

The dire news of closures comes against the backdrop of last weeks scathing interim report from the Federal Trade Commission. It found evidence suggesting that anticompetitive practices by pharmacy middlemen owned by giant healthcare conglomerates are driving pharmacies  especially in small towns  out of business.

The FTC report noted the harm thats already been wrought.

Between 2013 and 2022, about 10% of independent retail pharmacies in rural America closed, it said. Closures of local pharmacies affect not only small business owners and their employees, but also their patients. In some rural and medically underserved areas, local community pharmacies are the main healthcare option for Americans, who depend on them to get a flu shot, an EpiPen, or other lifesaving medicines.

Serious harm

To those lucky enough to be healthy, it might not seem obvious. But especially in underserved areas, pharmacy plays a vital role in the healthcare system.

Its the place where the frail and even the uninsured can go and easily talk to a healthcare professional. And its nearly pointless to have a health clinic in a place that doesnt also have a place where people can get their medicine. The big health conglomerates tout their mail-order operations, but many patients and healthcare professionals say theyre a poor substitute.

In Red Cloud, Ockinga said that an independent pharmacy in the northern part of Webster County is owned by an aging pharmacist and is likely to close in the next few years. Many others are struggling with still lower reimbursements after Medicare this year tried to stop clawbacks by huge pharmacy middlemen and might also close, she said.

Ockinga added that if shes forced to close her pharmacy in Red Cloud and another she owns 23 miles to the west in Franklin, patients in the area will have to drive at least an hour to get to a pharmacy. In the more-sparsely populated area to the west, the situation is even more precarious, Ockinga said.

The whole western panhandle of Nebraska, pharmacies are few and far between, just because the towns are few and far between, she said. So if you close one, they rely on mail order, because theres no other way they can get their meds.

The threat isnt merely academic. According to a survey released in February by the National Community Pharmacists Association, a third of community pharmacies said that the cash crunch Ockinga described might force them to close their doors this year.

Measuring the loss of pharmacies varies according to methodology. But Anne Cassity, senior vice president of the National Community Pharmacy Association, said the losses are dire.

The numbers we have say that last year, 375 independents went out of business nationwide and close to 1,000 chain pharmacies, Cassity said last week. That was just last year. Were losing an (independent) pharmacy a day and three chain pharmacies are closing. This year, based on what were seeing, were trending to see the exact same numbers.

Those numbers are in the context of roughly 62,000 retail pharmacies in the United States as of 2022. And that number took a big hit in rapid-fire announcements late last month of the mass closures by Rite Aid and Walgreens.

Every single day, from multiple pharmacies, I hear about reimbursements from conglomerate-owned middlemen, Cassity said. Pharmacists say Im using my 401k, my personal savings just to keep this pharmacy afloat. Just to pay my staff.

Market forces

Independent pharmacies and small chains have been bleeding out over the last decade, and the announcements by Rite Aid and Walgreens showed the losses werent just because small players lacked the size to compete, said David Burke, a pharmacist and former state senator who is now executive director of the Ohio Pharmacists Association. He said the large chains mass closures show greater forces are at work.

When you have a very mature operator like Walgreens openly saying we have to close 25% of our stores because they are underperforming  i.e., not profitable  that is more than troubling, Burke said last week. Any conspiracy theory you had up to this point has got to shift to market dynamics. Rite Aid has been in decline for a period of time, maybe they had operational issues You cant say that about Walgreens and theyre not talking about closing a few stores. Twenty five percent of their operation. If Delta Airlines decided to cancel 25% of their flights, people would freak. If Kroger was going to close 25% of its grocery stores, people would freak. Choices go down, costs go up. Weve seen that for a decade or two now.

The Federal Trade Commission report offered some new glimpses of how consolidated the healthcare marketplace has become  with shadowy middlemen known as pharmacy benefit managers playing an increasingly central role in their operations.

The companies act as insurers representatives in pharmacy transactions. They decide which drugs are covered and to what extent. In exchange for putting medicines on lists known as formularies, they collect huge rebates and other fees from drugmakers.

Pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, also create pharmacy networks and determine  through a system thats almost impossible to penetrate  how much to reimburse pharmacies for the drugs they dispense, the FTC report said.

At the same time, each of the biggest PBMs in some capacity competes with the pharmacies theyre deciding how much to pay. The biggest  CVS Caremark  is part of the company that operates the largest retail chain in the U.S. It and all of the others also operate mail-order pharmacies for specialty drugs, the most expensive class.

The conglomerates that own the biggest PBMs are increasingly vertically integrated in the healthcare space, meaning they each own major health insurers, while one  UnitedHealths Optum  owns the most doctors offices in the U.S., and they all have been expanding rapidly into new aspects of drug supply and other healthcare services.

Rapid expansion

The FTC and many others suspect the conglomerates of using their size and anticompetitive practices to crowd out competition, drive up prices and, ultimately, make Americans sicker by making it more difficult to access the medicines they need.

The three biggest PBMs  CVS Caremark, OptumRx and ExpressScripts  control nearly 80% of the insured prescriptions in the United States, and the six biggest PBMs control 94% of that marketplace, the FTC report said.

They are at the core of conglomerates that are gobbling up a rapidly increasing share of the nations vast annual healthcare spending.

The four biggest  CVS Health, UnitedHealth, Cigna/Express Scripts and Humana  received 14% of the healthcare dollars spent in the United States in 2016. That jumped to 22%, or more than a fifth of all healthcare spending, in 2023, the FTC report said.

In monetary terms, it was an increase from $456 billion a year to more than $1 trillion.

Its surprising, but its not surprising, said Cassity of the National Community Pharmacists Association. They control the ability to put other pharmacies out of business. Their pockets are growing fatter every year and on top of all that, drug costs are continuing to go up.

The FTC reported another statistic strongly indicating that the big money on Wall Street favors this consolidation: Entities that were invested in at least three of the four conglomerates owned more than a third of the companies combined value. Thats a huge stake, given that three of the corporations are among the 15 biggest in the United States and Humana comes in at 38th.

Tough practices

At least since 2018, the big PBMs have responded to criticism by saying they used their heft in the marketplace to bring drugmakers to heel and save plan sponsors and patients money. Last week, a spokesman for an industry group, the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, denied that PBMs were driving community pharmacies out of business.

PBMs recognize the vital role pharmacies play in creating access to prescription drugs for patients, PCMA Vice President Greg Lopes said in an email. There are many factors for pharmacy closures, however pharmacy benefit managers are supporting community pharmacies in rural areas through programs that increase reimbursements. Blaming PBMs for pharmacy closures is not based on the facts.

However, the FTC found several practices that might stifle competitors. Among them:

Forcing pharmacies to sign gun-to-the-head contracts that give the pharmacies no idea how much theyll be reimbursed  or if theyll be able to cover their costs. In effect, the PBMs often fail to commit in their contracts to any identifiable or readily ascertainable rate for generic reimbursements, the report said.

Setting seemingly arbitrary quality standards and charging fees for not meeting them. One PBMs internal document said the fees are primarily intended to provide competitive financial benefit to [PBM] clients, the FTC report said.

Classifying ever more drugs as specialty and pressuring or requiring that patients get them from mail-order pharmacies affiliated with the PBM if they are to be covered by insurance.

Negotiating rebates from manufacturers of branded drugs that discourage or deny coverage of cheaper generic alternatives.

They just dominate the marketplace and control everything from top to bottom: what goes on the formularies, what patients can go to which pharmacies, and  and I think this does more than anything to explain these closures  they determine what their competitors get paid, Cassity said.

The Federal Trade Commissions investigation has turned up documents indicating that PBM executives are aware of their practices and that they worry how they might appear to the public.

The agency looked at two generic cancer drugs and determined that the PBMs reimburse their affiliated pharmacies far more than their competitors and often 20 to 40 times the prices on lists published by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The report quoted an executive of one of the PBMs parent companies talking about the pricing of one of the drugs. The PBM was blatantly violating its preferred-network pricing promises, and the executive was concerned how it would look  especially since it was all but forcing patients into those networks.

[Y]ou can get the drug [imatinib mesylate] at a non-preferred pharmacy (Costco) for $97, at Walgreens (preferred) for $9000, and at preferred home delivery for $19,200, the executive said. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services expects that plans that offer preferred pharmacy constructs have lower pricing in the preferred channel. Compounding the challenge/optics is the fact that weve created plan designs to aggressively steer customers to home delivery where the drug cost is ~200 times higher. The optics are not good and must be addressed.

Foot dragging

The FTC report is an interim update after the agency undertook a sweeping 6(b) investigation of the pharmacy middlemen in 2022. As it has in the past, the antitrust watchdog again complained in the interim report that at least some of the PBMs arent forking over the information theyve been ordered to.

Although the FTC issued its Orders to the PBMs over two years ago, some of the PBM respondents have not yet fully complied; they have not yet completed their required submissions, the report says. The failure of certain respondents to timely produce data and documents has hindered the ability of the Commission to perform its statutory mission. FTC staff has demanded that the companies finalize their productions required by the Orders promptly and eagerly awaits promised productions. If, however, any of the companies fail to fully comply with the Orders or engage in further delay tactics, the FTC can take them to court to compel compliance.

Even though the investigation hasnt been completed, the agency seems determined to act. Last week, news broke that the FTC was planning to sue the big-three PBMs over practices concerning certain lifesaving drugs, such as insulin.

Burke, of the Ohio Pharmacists Association, said its nearing midnight for the nations network of retail pharmacies, and government at all levels needs to do more to protect it.

Is this going to go the way of the Sears Auto Center? he asked. Thats what Im concerned about because then we have an access issue Can people get the medications they need? Were not talking about people like you and me. Im concerned about diabetics. People with breathing disorders who end up at the emergency room or in urgent care  very high-cost settings. You know as well as I do, theyre not closing the store in (affluent) Dublin, Ohio, theyre closing the store in (rural) Vinton County.

Ohio Capital Journal is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Ohio Capital Journal maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor David Dewitt for questions: info@ohiocapitaljournal.com. Follow Ohio Capital Journal on Facebook and X.
Mint Images/Getty Images.

It was always the suspicion. When shadowy pharmacy middlemen started in 2019 to create yet another layer of middlemen, critics suspected they would be used to avoid transparency and skim even more money from the interstices of arcane  but wildly lucrative  drug transactions.

Now evidence is accumulating that it might be happening. Two government investigations this year accused the giant health conglomerates that own the middlemen of doing precisely that: hiding millions that were supposed to go to payers and pocketing the money themselves.

The first level of middlemen are known as pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs. The three biggest, CVS Caremark, ExpressScripts and OptumRx, are part of health conglomerates, CVS Health, Cigna/Express Scripts and UnitedHealth Group, that are among the 15 largest corporations in the United States.

Each of those corporations also owns a top-10 insurer, and the PBMs represent those and other insurance companies in about 80% of all prescription-drug transactions conducted.

The PBMs create pharmacy networks and use an impenetrable system to determine how much to reimburse those pharmacies for the drugs they dispense. And, because CVS owns brick-and-mortar pharmacies and all three own mail-order operations, the PBMs determine reimbursements for their own pharmacies and those of their competitors.

The companies have been shown to use that lack of transparency to line their pockets. A state investigation found that in 2017 CVS Caremark and OptumRx billed Ohio Medicaid  taxpayers, in other words  $224 million more for prescription drugs than they paid the pharmacies that had bought and dispensed them.

PBMs also decide which drugs are covered when they create formularies. Because the big three control access to the vast majority of insured patients, they have enormous leverage to negotiate huge rebates, fees and other price concessions from the companies that make the drugs. That dynamic has been shown to result in big increases in the list prices on which your copayments are usually based. Its also what you have to pay if you dont have insurance.

Non-transparent rebates and other practices prompted a host of lawsuits, legislation and the Federal Trade Commission in 2022 undertook a major investigation of the PBM industry. In July, it issued a scathing interim report, saying it found what appeared to be anticompetitive practices.

The FTC also noted that the conglomerates that own the big PBMs have expanded dramatically in recent years, taking over an expanding swath of the healthcare industry. Combined, the conglomerates went from receiving 12% of all U.S. health care dollars in 2016 to 20% last year  a 67% increase in their share of the gargantuan healthcare market over eight years.

As scrutiny and calls for transparency mounted, the big PBMs created new businesses that critics said were aimed at avoiding transparency. Alternatively called group-purchasing organizations and rebate aggregators, they work on behalf of the big-three PBMs  their sister companies  and whatever other PBMs they can sign up.

Cigna/Express Scripts created the first group-purchasing organization, Ascent, in 2019. The other two companies quickly followed, with CVS launching Zinc in 2020 and UnitedHealth starting Emisar in 2021. The companies serve as the middlemens middlemen, negotiating with drugmakers on the PBMs behalf to extract huge price concessions in exchange for the PBMs including drugmakers products on their formularies.

Critics immediately suspected that the group-purchasing organizations were yet another veil behind which the big conglomerates would attempt to hide money theyd skimmed from prescription-drug transactions. Perhaps tellingly, two of the organizations  Ascent and Emisar  are headquartered overseas even though their business is in the United States.

Evidence emerged this year indicating that critics suspicions might have been on the money.

In March, the U.S. Postal Services inspector general accused Express Scripts Ascent of withholding nearly $16 million despite a contract requiring the company to refund any and all compensation, financial benefits, or remuneration the PBM [or any Third Party] receives from a pharmaceutical manufacturer, including by not limited to, discounts, credits, rebates (regardless of how categorized), market share incentives, chargebacks, commissions, [and] administrative or management fees .

Then in June, CVS agreed to pay the state of Illinois $45 million in alleged overcharges, at least part of them relating to Zinc, STAT reported.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost in March filed suit under the states antitrust law against Express Scripts and Ascent, accusing them of ripping off citizens of the Buckeye State.

Ascent functions primarily to further expand Express Scripts stranglehold on the price of medications, the suit says. It also allows Express Scripts to coordinate pricing and other activities with its competitors.

Yosts office didnt respond when asked if it might sue the other health giants in light of the actions by the Postal Service and the Illinois attorney general.

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(COLORADO SPRINGS)  Recently Phil Long Dealerships presented checks to five local community-focused organizations in honor of its former president and CEO Jay Cimino.

Cimino was the former president and CEO of Phil Long Dealerships, who passed away in February shortly after his retirement. During his 49 years of service at Phil Long, Cimino became known for his philanthropy and community service.

Jay Cimino: Remembering a southern Colorado legend

The money was raised during Phil Longs Thanks, Jay giveback campaign. For every new and pre-owned vehicle sold in April, the month of Ciminos birthday, a donation was made to each of the five organizations, for a grand total of $95,950.

Jay was an extraordinary man, whose contributions touched many communities throughout the state and beyond, said Phil Long Dealerships President and CEO Kevin Shaughnessy. We are proud to continue his legacy of philanthropy and are grateful for our customers because it is their trust in us that allows us to make such a positive impact.

Courtesy: Phil Long Dealerships

Courtesy: Phil Long Dealerships

Courtesy: Phil Long Dealerships

Courtesy: Phil Long Dealerships

Courtesy: Phil Long Dealerships

Phil Long chose Colorado Parks & Wildlife, 1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings, Catholic Charities of Central Colorado, Mt. Carmel Wellness & Community Center, and Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. Phil Long Dealerships said the organizations were chosen due to their missions being closely tied to the philanthropic efforts Cimino made during his life.

A huge thank you goes out to Phil Long Dealerships and their customers for their donation to our 1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings initiative, Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade said in a Facebook post. Thank you for sharing our vision to connect with one another and address social isolation and loneliness in 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 FOX21 News Colorado.
In August 2024, a post on the social media site X displayed a graphic from the daytime talk show "Dr. Phil." The graphic, summarizing a "Facebook Post by CA Parent," shows a lenient "public school grading scale" that assigns an "A" grade to an 84% and up, while the next three grades covers 20 percentage points, making a "B" between 64% and 84%, a "C" between 44% and 64% and so on, with an "F" below 24%. The same graphic previously went viral in April 2024.

(Facebook user Latara Youngblood)

Users across the social media landscape left comments bemoaning the state of the American public-education system. Some users went further, implying that the scale was implemented statewide.

But a few things about the post felt a bit wrong: The graphic did not include a precise source, and the grading scale was so different that we wondered whether it was real.

Is the Facebook Post Real?

It is unclear whether the post referenced by the graphic was real and whether it was describing a legitimate grading system.

Although we were unable to find an exact clip from the episode, we feel relatively comfortable in saying that the graphic is a real screenshot from "Dr. Phil." Dr. Phil McGraw used the same example when discussing American public education on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast in October 2022.

"Dr. Phil" stopped taping new episodes in early 2023, which means the episode in question would have been a rerun in April 2024. That fact made it even harder to track down the post's origin. We reached out to people involved with the production of "Dr. Phil" to ask them for the graphic's source, but have not yet heard back. We could not find a Facebook post matching what appeared on the show.

Because the Facebook post supposedly came from California, we investigated the grading methodologies of a few large public school districts in the state and reached out to the California's Department of Education.

The Los Angeles and Long Beach Unified school districts did not publish a districtwide grading scale, but reporting from the Los Angeles Times combined with documents for graduation requirements confirmed that these schools use some sort of a letter grade system. In February 2024, L.A. Unified updated its grading practices for the first time since 2005 and included a "heavy suggestion" that teachers move away from traditional grading. However, the episode of "Dr. Phil" with the graphic would have aired long before that change was made.

In addition, the San Diego Unified and San Francisco Unified school districts had districtwide grading scales for middle- and high-schoolers that match the standard "A = 90-100%" grading scale most Americans are used to. Therefore, although the grading scale shown on "Dr. Phil" might exist in the state of California, it certainly is not statewide. We have not yet heard back from the Department of Education.

In our research, we came across mentions of a grading methodology called "mastery-based" or "standards-based" grading that might be able to explain the uncommon scale. In particular, we found that the percentages found in the graphic could have easily resulted from attempting to translate a mastery-based grading system into a more traditional percentage-based or letter grade system.

So with the caveat that Snopes could not definitively identify the particular scale featured on "Dr. Phil," let's explore standards-based grading.

Standards-Based Grading

Sharona Krinsky, an adjunct professor of mathematics at California State University, Los Angeles and executive director of The Grading Conference, knew exactly what was going on with that methodology.

"Grades don't communicate learning. They were designed to rank and score students against each other," she said. "We're recreating grading as a tool to help students learn and report what they learn."

In order to do that, Krinsky said, we need to think of grades as subjective evaluations rather than objective numbers. In a normal ABCDF grading scale, student assignments are given point values and scored based on a percentage of points. In standards-based grading, however, students are graded based on whether or not they've exceeded the instructor's learning goals. For instance, an elementary-school math instructor might set learning goals of understanding how parentheses work, or knowing how to add two-digit numbers. Then, each student is given a different mark (oftentimes, on a 0-4 or 0-5 scale) for how well they understand and can apply each objective.

Although a numerical scale is still applied in standards-based grading, Krinsky said that what really matters is whether the student understands the concept.

"Grades are labels, and we made the mistake of treating them as math," she said.

Under common ABCDF gradings, the passing threshold is a C, equivalent to 70%. But on standards-based learning scales, passing is often a 3, placing it much closer to the graphic that appeared on "Dr. Phil," where a C was between 44 and 64%. And when taken in a vacuum, such a grading scale makes it look like the expectations for students are more lenient.

"If that's the only thing you change, then of course standards are going to go down," Krinsky said.

But these grading systems do not exist in a vacuum. Under standards-based grading systems, educators change more than just the grading scale. This was the main problem Krinsky had with the graphic on "Dr. Phil." She said the lack of context removed any possible explanation for how the grades are given and what standards the students are being held to.

Translating a standards-based system into a familiar percentage or letter grade scale just doesn't make a lot of sense, because number grades are not objective. A 50% on one scale could genuinely equal the same effort from a student as a 70% on another scale. This is possibly how Dr. Phil's grading scale ended up the way it did: a different set of academic standards got lost in translation.

Krinsky said that people criticizing the public education system, grading scales included, don't often acknowledge that it fails because budget cuts and political pressure do not give it the chance to succeed. She wanted parents who criticize the education system to know that her goal is to get their kids to learn effectively.

"Parents should be willing to engage with an open mind, and not assume that their way is always the best way." she said. "They're such powerful advocates."

Sources:

4.2.6 Middle and High School Grades | SFUSD. https://www.sfusd.edu/services/know-your-rights/student-family-handbook/chapter-4-student-academic-expectations/42-academic-guidelines/427-middle-and-high-school-grades. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

"39  Systemic Change  A Look at How Los Angeles Unified School District Developed Their New Grading Policy, Based on Equitable Grading Practices. With Joe Zeccola." The Grading Podcast, 9 Apr. 2024, https://thegradingpod.com/episodes/39-systemic-change-a-look-at-how-los-angeles-unified-school-district-developed-their-new-grading-policy-based-on-equitable-grading-practices-with-joe-zeccola/.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) | U.S. Department of Education. https://www.ed.gov/essa?src=rn. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

"Falling Grades, Stalled Learning. L.A. Students 'need Help Now,' Times Analysis Shows." Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2021, https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-10-21/covid-era-learning-challenges-lausd-after-school-closures.

Goals 2000 and ESEA  Education Reform - Invest More, Demand More  Clinton Digital Library. https://clinton.presidentiallibraries.us/exhibits/show/education-reform/goals-esea. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

Grading Policies - Then and Now. https://sandiegounified.org/s_d_u_s_d_grading_policy/grading_policies_-_then_and_now. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

Graduating Class of 2025 LBUSD Graduation Requirements. Long Beach Unified School District, https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1655724895/lbusdk12caus/henf3glxojljcymnlul2/LBUSD-Graduation-Requirements-2025-EN.pdf.

Grossman, Hannah. "Dr. Phil Guest Shocked by the Dumbing down of America's Children: 'A Coverup within the... System.'" Fox News, 1 Nov. 2022, https://www.foxnews.com/media/dr-phil-guest-shocked-dumbing-down-americas-children-coverup.

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JimG. "Standards-Based Grading in a Traditional Percent-Based System?" A to Z Teacher Stuff, 27 Sept. 2018, https://forums.atozteacherstuff.com/index.php?threads/standards-based-grading-in-a-traditional-percent-based-system.204248/.

Joe Rogan & Dr Phil Why 1/3 of Americans CAN'T READ. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5TMe1j4w9c. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

Kondo, Annette. "LAUSD Switches From Letter to Number Grades." Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 1999, https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1999-oct-06-me-19434-story.html.

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See inside the US-made Bradleys that Ukrainian troops are using to shred Russian armor

US-provided Bradley infantry fighting vehicles have proven to be valuable assets for the Ukrainians.

Kyiv's troops have praised the heavy armor for keeping them alive in combat missions.

Photos show the Bradleys up close and what it looks like inside.

Facing incoming Russian fire, minefields, and other hazards, US-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicles have helped keep Ukrainian forces alive as they battle Moscow's troops.

Washington first announced its intent to supply Ukraine with these vehicles in 2022 as part of a massive effort by the West to arm Kyiv with advanced heavy armor. M2A2 Bradleys eventually reached the battlefield in April 2023  just weeks ahead of the counter-offensive, and they have proven to be a powerful asset in the months since.

Ukrainian soldiers have credited the highly maneuverable and formidable Bradleys with saving their lives in combat, arguing that they would likely be dead had they been riding in a less-advanced Soviet-era vehicle. Bradleys have even been used to help rescue endangered civilians under heavy fire.

Operating in a 'light tank role'

Equipped with the firepower to engage fortified positions and armored vehicles, the Bradley is primarily designed to transport infantry across hostile territories, while the US-supplied M1 Abrams tanks, which normally accompanied the IFVs, would take on Russian main battle tanks they encountered.

But with Ukraine facing a shortage of battle tanks, Bradleys have been used on the battlefield as light tanks as they are far more plentiful and expendable. More importantly, they're able to take on a Russian tank in a fight.

"There's no question that the Ukrainians seem to be using it differently from the way the US Army would use it," Mark Cancian, a defense expert and retired US Marine Corps colonel, told Business Insider's Jake Epstein and Chris Panella. "They're using it much more in a scouting role, in a light tank role, than as an infantry fighting vehicle."

In January, video footage captured two Bradleys dealing severe damage to a T-90M Proryv, Russia's most advanced tank on the battlefield, which President Vladimir Putin has called "the world's best tank." In what initially appeared to be a mismatched confrontation, the Bradleys bombarded the T-90M with 25mm one-pound shells at close range, and the burned-up tank was seen spinning out of control shortly after.

Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) January 18, 2024

In June, Ukraine shared video footage of the Bradley taking on a Russian armored personal carrier in a high-speed firefight. Russian soldiers aboard the APC, which the Ukrainian military website Militarnyi reported was a BTR-82A, are seen fleeing the burning Russian carrier just moments before it blows up in a cloud of smoke and sparks.

A spokesperson for the Ukrainian brigade involved in the battle said the Russian APC "subsequently exploded on mines laid by Ukraine's Defence Forces," according to Telegram analytics channel DeepState. The video appeared to be taken in the Donetsk oblast, per DeepState.

That said, these vehicles are far from indestructible, and they have fallen victim to Russia's defenses and artillery.

According to a Pentagon fact sheet, the US has provided more than 300 Bradleys to Ukraine, but nearly a third of them have been destroyed, damaged, or abandoned, according to visually confirmed images reviewed by Oryx. At least four Bradleys have been captured by Russian forces, per Oryx.

An inside look at the Bradley

Photos offer an inside look at a Bradley operated by Ukraine's 47th Mechanized Brigade in the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region.

Gunner 'Molfar', 39, a Bradley IFV crew member of the 47th Magura Mechanized Brigade who took part in the fighting to liberate Robotyne village from Russian invaders, stands in the hatch of the vehicle. Dmytro Smolienko/Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Gunner 'Molfar' stands in the hatch of the Bradley. Dmytro Smolienko/Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

The Bradley is a highly maneuverable and quick-moving armored vehicle capable of transporting troops to and from the battlefield, providing them with fire support, and carrying out reconnaissance missions.

Designed and manufactured by BAE Systems as a response to Soviet infantry fighting vehicles, the Bradley entered service in the 1980s. It was deployed to the Gulf War in the 1990s and then again sent to Iraq the following decade. It saw heavy fighting in both and proved its value against enemy armor and fortified positions.

Gunner 'Molfar' is pictured inside the Bradley. Photo by Ukrinform/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Gunner 'Molfar' is pictured inside the Bradley. Dmytro Smolienko/Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

The Bradley is a tracked vehicle, so it is sometimes misidentified as a tank. In early January, when it was announced that the US would send Bradleys to Ukraine, Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the press secretary for the US Department of Defense, was asked by reporters at a briefing to describe how the vehicle is different from a tank.

"It's not a tank, but it's a tank killer," he explained. "A Bradley is an armored vehicle that has a firepower capability that can deliver troops into combat. It will provide a significant boost to Ukraine's already impressive armor capabilities. And we're confident that it will aid them on the battlefield."

Gunner 'Molfar' is pictured inside the Bradley. Photo by Ukrinform/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Gunner 'Molfar' carries a belt of munitions. Photo by Ukrinform/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Bradleys are operated by a three-person crew  a commander, a driver, and a gunner  and can carry up to six fully equipped soldiers. The vehicle can travel at speeds of just over 40 mph and has an operational range of around 300 miles.

They are armed with a 25 mm M242 Bushmaster chain gun, a 7.62 mm M240C machine gun, and Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wire-Guided (TOW) missiles, which can hit armor in the distance. A 1992 Government Accountability Office report on the Bradley's Gulf War performance praised the vehicle, noting that it "proved to be lethal" and its weapons were "effective against a variety of targets."

Gunner 'Molfar' is seen inside the vehicle. Photo by Ukrinform/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Gunner 'Molfar' is seen inside the Bradley. Dmytro Smolienko / Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

According to the Pentagon's latest inventory of security assistance to Ukraine, the US has sent over 9,000 TOW missiles and more than 1.8 million rounds of 25 mm ammunition.

The weaponry is just a small component of the nearly $58.1 billion in military aid Washington has provided since Russia launched its initial Ukraine invasion in 2014. The Biden administration has also sent nearly 200 Stryker armored personnel carriers and more than 600 M113 carrier vehicles, in addition to drones, artillery, air-defense capabilities, and advanced rocket systems.

Gunner 'Molfar' is pictured inside the Bradley. Dmytro Smolienko / Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Gunner 'Molfar' (R) and mechanic and driver 'Revo.' Dmytro Smolienko / Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

In the Zaporizhzhia region, where these photos were taken, Ukrainian forces went head-to-head against Russia's formidable defensive lines and fortifications to gain ground in the region.

Late last year, Kyiv's troops managed to carve out a small pocket of liberated territory south of Orikhiv, battling through minefields, anti-tank ditches, and dragon's teeth obstacles. However, Russian forces were able to hinder Ukraine's advances into the territory by launching relentless assaults using drones, artillery, and guided missiles.

Ukraine's counter-offensive failed to break through Russia's heavily fortified lines. But the Bradleys have become an integral part of Ukraine's mechanized forces thanks to their crews' bravery.

Editor's note: This list was first published in September 2023 and has been updated to reflect recent developments.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The post Planned Terror Attack on Taylor Swift Concerts Thwarted After Two Men Connected to ISIS Arrested [Updated] appeared first on Consequence.

A planned terror attack on Taylor Swifts concerts in Vienna has been thwarted after two suspects were arrested in Austria on Wednesday. Both men had sworn allegiance to ISIS and had been radicalized on the internet, per the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung.

While police believe the terror threat has been extinguished, Swifts concerts in Vienna have nonetheless been canceled. With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety, local ticket agency oetickets said in a statement. All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days.

The two men were planning an attack on Viennas Ernst Happel Stadium, where Taylor Swift was set to perform Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights as a part of the European leg of her Eras Tour. Local law enforcement were originally tipped off about a potential threat to the concert by foreign security authorities. Following their arrest, the two men confessed to planning to kill as many people as possible outside the concert venue, according to The Associated Press.

One of the suspects was identified as a 19-year-old Austrian man. Police raided his parents home in the nearby town of Ternitz and found various chemicals and substances that could have been used to build a bomb. The man had allegedly planned the attack since July, with the intent to use knives and homemade explosives.

His suspected accomplice was a 17-year-old Austrian man who was employed to work security at the stadium.

During a news conference held on Wednesday, Vienna State Police Director Franz Ruf and Police Chief Gerhard Purstl said both suspects had been radicalized via the internet, sworn allegiance to ISIS a few weeks ago, and had specifically organized how the attack was going to take place.

Its been a challenging couple weeks for Swift and her fans. A horrific stabbing occurred last week during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class for kids in England, resulting in the deaths of three children and the injuries of eleven others. Meanwhile, an Illinois man attending Morgan Wallens concert at Kansas Citys Arrowhead Stadium tweeted out a threat to shoot Travis Kelce, Swifts boyfriend, as well as fellow Chiefs player Patrick Mahomes  the man was arrested and charged with a Class E felony for making a terrorist threat in the second degree.

Editors Note: This article has been updated with additional details about the alleged attack.

Planned Terror Attack on Taylor Swift Concerts Thwarted After Two Men Connected to ISIS Arrested [Updated]

Paolo Ragusa

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Louisiana environmental activists and twins Jo Banner, right, and Joy Banner. (Courtesy of the Descendants Project)

What would have been one of the worlds largest grain terminals will not materialize in St. John the Baptist Parish, where opponents said it would ruin the quality of life for residents in the predominantly Black community and disturb their historical burial sites.

Greenfield Louisiana LLC said Tuesday it was halting its $800 million Wallace Grain Export Facility, which it started in 2021. The company cited continued delays in permitting from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which must sign off on any proposal that involves construction near the Mississippi River levee.

In a statement posted on X, Greenfield claimed permits for similar projects are usually approved within six months.

  But today, sadly, we are no closer to a resolution than we were when we began this process, the statement reads. The Army Corps of Engineers has chosen to repeatedly delay this project by catering to special interests  many of which are out-of-state groups  when it should have been listening to local voices here on the West Bank. We can no longer wait for an outcome that may never come.

As planned, the Greenfield project would have included 56 grain silos that would have moved grain to and from vessels on the river. Dust from the handling of grain was among the concerns of opponents.

The Army Corps of Engineers identified 20 historic properties within the projects proposed footprint area of potential effects and found the project would adversely impact five of them: Whitney Plantation, Evergreen Plantation, Willow Grove Cemetery, Oak Alley Plantation and the wider Whitney Plantation Historic District. Most of the properties are either National Historic Landmarks or listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Willow Grove Cemetery, which contains the burial sites of slaves and their descendants, was just 300 feet from the proposed construction site.

Some of the most prominent voices against the Greenfield project were the Banner sisters, Jo and Joy, who lead the Descendants Project. Their nonprofit aims to preserve communities whose ancestors were slaves at plantations in the River Parishes from expanding industry.

Wallace, with some 500 residents, was originally set aside upriver from Evergreen Plantation as a community for the formerly enslaved. Similar Black communities are located near plantations along the river.

Weve fought for three long years to save the community, way of life, and heritage we love. Now the real work begins, the Banner sisters said in a statement. We look forward to working with the community to heal, preserve, and build a healthy, bright future together.

A spokeswoman for Greenfield provided reaction Wednesday morning from Gov. Jeff Landry:

This grain facility would have been environmentally sound and brought hundreds of high paying jobs to St. John Parish, Landry said in the statement. After years of delay  its despicable that the Corps of Engineers had additional delays with this project choosing to adhere to special interest groups and wealthy plantation owners instead of hardworking Louisianans. Louisiana is ready to move past our days of listening to plantation owners, but it seems our federal government is not.

Important Update on the Wallace Grain Export Facility pic.twitter.com/ee4mInjN5T  Greenfield Louisiana (@greenfieldgrain) August 7, 2024

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The story provided by a starving American woman who was found shackled to a tree in India appears to be falling apart, according to a new report.

Lalita Kayi was found chained, starving and emaciated on July 27, deep in the forests of the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, about 25 miles from Goa, screaming for help. She was discovered by a cow herder who said he could hear someone screaming like an animal.

Having moved to India a decade ago to study yoga and meditation, Kayi told police in a written statement after her discovery that she survived without food and water after being shackled by her former husband, who chained her and left her in the forest to die without food or water.

Starving American Yoga Student Chained to Tree For 40 Days

Yet according to the BBC, which spoke with local officials, Kayi is backtracking, with doctors and police now sure she shackled herself. The 50-year-old is currently in a psychiatric facility receiving treatment, the outlet reported, adding that the U.S. Embassy has declined to comment, citing her privacy.

After an initial police investigation, reports surrounding the Kayis apparent husband appear to be false. Superintendent of police for Sindhudurg Saurabh Agarwal told the BBC that Kayi now claims she is unmarried, blaming a letter she wrote upon her discovery blaming the fake husband as a hallucination.

In reality, after purchasing the chains herself, she tied herself to the tree out of fear she was running out of money and that her visa had expired.

Kayis condition is improving, according to Dr. Sanghamitra Phule, superintendent of the psychiatric hospital where Kayi is being held for treatment.

She eats, walks and also exercises. She is under treatment and we are also giving her some nutrients that her body was lacking, Phule said, adding her family had been contacted in the U.S. and that Kayi had been in touch through a phone call.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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PnB Rocks mother, Deanna Allen, is speaking out following closing arguments being delivered in her sons murder trial. The musician, born Rakim Hasheem Allen, was shot and killed in September 2022 in an alleged attempted robbery. Speaking to Rolling Stones Nancy Dillon on Monday (Aug. 5) after court, an emotional Ms. Allen detailed how she only learned the proceedings had begun through social media.

I wasnt prepared for those pictures. Its very devastating. I never wanted to see those pictures, she shared with the outlet, as the sight of her sons body caused her to tear up in court.

Im here to get justice. I want justice. This was my son, my child, she continued, adding I want the jury to know he has a family who loves him and wants to support him. I learned a lot today.

Sept. 13, 2022: A growing memorial in the parking lot at Roscoes House of Chicken and Waffles where rapper PnB Rock was shot and killed while being robbed inside the restaurant.

The murder trial against Freddie Trone argues that he sent his 17-year-old son into a Los Angeles restaurant in 2022 to rob and kill the slain rapper. Trone pled not guilty to one count of murder, two counts of robbery, and a count of conspiracy to commit a felony. A co-defendant, Tremont Jones, is accused of tipping off Trone and his son to the musicians location.

In this handout provided by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Freddie Lee Trone poses for a mugshot photo after he was arrested as a possible suspect wanted in the murder of rapper PnB Rock September 29, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

I understand youre trying to put together your story, Trone told a prosecutor during the trial, per the Associated Press. I never had nothing to do with it. I wasnt there. I didnt tell nobody to do nothing. I didnt hand nobody no gun.

His attorney, Winston McKesson, claims, Had my defendant not lived in this area, had he not been African American, theres no way they wouldve filed murder charges, adding, Had this crime been in Beverly Hills, he wouldve been charged as an accessory after the fact and thats it.

Sept. 13, 2022: A growing memorial in the parking lot at Roscoes House of Chicken and Waffles where rapper PnB Rock was shot and killed while being robbed inside the restaurant.

According to Rolling Stone, as of last month, the teenager suspected of pulling the trigger is not yet competent to stand trial. Commissioner Sharonda P. Bradford confirmed the accused murderer is receiving a range of services while in police custody.

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, detailed Ms. Allen to the outlet.

A follow-up hearing for the alleged shooter is set for later this month.

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PnB Rock on Feb. 9, 2020 in New York City. - Credit: Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images

A critical and highly disputed six-minute timespan is at the heart of the PnB Rock murder trial that finished closing arguments Tuesday and is now in the hands of a jury in Compton, California.

Prosecutors say the six minutes between 1:14 p.m. and 1:20 p.m. on Sept. 12, 2022, was the time it took for murder defendant Freddie Trone, 42, to drive out of a Roscoes Chicken & Waffles parking lot, arm his 17-year-old son with a semi-automatic gun, a ski mask, and a robbery plot, and then deliver the teen back to the restaurant for what would lead to the murder of PnB Rock, born Rakim Allen.

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Trones defense lawyer, Winston McKesson, gave jurors an alternate scenario during his closing argument Tuesday. He said Trone left the Roscoes at 1:14 p.m., drove to his beauty supply shop two minutes away, turned his back to use a bathroom and had his Buick Enclave stolen by his son  who then returned to the Roscoes with three others. McKesson urged jurors to scrutinize the surveillance video showing the shooter exiting the car outside the Roscoes in South Los Angeles. He said the teen is seen exiting the Enclave from the seat behind the driver, entering and exiting the Roscoes, and running back to the closest backseat door before hesitating and circling around to the backseat on the drivers side.

It tells you that theres more people in the car, McKesson argued. He called the video extremely important, not only because it allegedly backs up his clients claim that he was no longer driving but also because it cuts against the heart of Deputy District Attorney Timothy Richardsons allegation that Trone was seeking a six-figure score by robbing jewelry from the celebrated rapper. He said Trone didnt trust his son enough to go buy a can of soup and never would have tapped more people to help the teen carry out the alleged crime.

Whoever is behind this, I agree, theyre looking for money, McKesson argued. You dont want to share the money. Why would you bring three other guys in there? Youd have to split the money three more ways.

In his final rebuttal after McKesson spoke, Richardson told jurors that the six critical minutes simply wasnt enough time for Trones version of events. He argued that surveillance video of the Enclave from the neighborhood shows you where the vehicle went, and a roundtrip to Trones shop several more blocks away was impossible.

In six minutes, the defense want you to believe that [the teen shooter] rounded up his boys, got a strap, hopped in his dads car, and drove back to the Roscoes, Richardson argued. Coincidence? No. Coordinated acts? Yes.

Richardson delivered the bulk of his closing argument on Monday, going over the many surveillance videos that pieced together Allens final hours and the aftermath that included Trones movements before he admittedly burned the Enclave a few blocks from his wifes residence after the shooting. On Tuesday, McKesson argued that with all these videos collected by investigators, the only time his client is seen getting into the vehicle is when he left the Roscoes parking lot after speaking with his co-defendant, Tremont Jones, for the three minutes leading up to 1:14 p.m. The lawyer said the covered item that Jones handed Trone during the meeting was a bag of marijuana, not a gun supplied for an alleged conspiracy to commit robbery.

He told you why he buys the weed. He said its because smoking marijuana does a better job to balance his sons chemical imbalance and has a better total effect than Adderall, McKesson said, referring to the teens previously discussed diagnoses.

The lawyer also used his final address to jurors to fault investigators for not collecting surveillance video from the area around Trones beauty shop, about a half-mile away. He argued such video would have backed up Trones claim that his car was stolen by his son and that an unidentified person with a burgundy SUV picked him up so he could search for his son. The defense lawyer further argued that prosecutors had no evidence of any communication between Trone and Jones before they met up in the Roscoes parking lot about a half hour after Allen fist-bumped Jones as he entered the Roscoes with his fiancee Stephanie Sibounheuang.

Theres no evidence to show my client was paged to get there, no phone calls, no text messages. They want you to believe he just intuited that his services on a robbery homicide would be required, McKesson argued. He claimed investigators had their mind made up and ignored anything that could prove his clients innocence. Theres no evidence that my client planned anything. You have no evidence that he intended anything, he said. This young [shooter] acted independently of his dad. There is no evidence that he controlled that boy.

Richardson rebutted that he wasnt required to show that there was extensive pre-planning or even that Jones met with the teen shooter before the homicide. He called the alleged robbery conspiracy a crime of opportunity that turned deadly. Richardson called it astonishing that Trone admitted he was buying weed for his son to replace prescription drugs.

Richardson urged the jurors to question why Trone never identified the person who allegedly picked him up in the burgundy SUV. That is the person that can account for those six minutes of Mr. Freddie Trones life  He just needs these six minutes of explanation not captured on a camera. Mr. Freddie Trone didnt want to give you the name of that person  the sole person to provide an alibi, Richardson argued. He said the reason was because the driver didnt exist.

Richardson then gave Allens mother, Deannea Allen, a signal that he was about to play the video from inside the Roscoes one more time for the jury. Deannea quietly left the courtroom first. Speaking to Rolling Stone on Monday, Deannea said it was devastating to see the autopsy photo of her son that was shown on a courtroom screen. She called Trones alibi story ridiculous.

Im here to get justice. I want justice. This was my son, my child, Deannea said. I want the jury to know he has a family who loves him and wants to support him.

For his part, Jones said he played no role in the alleged father-son robbery plot. His defense lawyer, David Haas, reminded jurors Tuesday that his client was not charged with murder, only two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy. He said Jones was well-known at the Roscoes, so the prosecutions theory that Jones handed Trone a gun in full view of a Roscoes security camera made no sense. Haas also highlighted the lack of any phone calls or electronic communication the day of the shooting beyond a single 1-second cell phone connection between Trone and Jones that he dismissed as meaningless.

This case is so thin, Haas said in his closing argument. What if Mr. Jones is simply a weed dealer? The jury of four women and eight men deliberated for two hours Tuesday and is set to return Wednesday morning.

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 collaborations such as his 2019 feature on Ed Sheerans Cross Me.

After the slaying, Allens fiancee 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, her since-deleted post was shown to the jury. She confirmed 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 argued in his closing on Monday. 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. Speaking to Rolling Stone, Sibounheuang said Allen saved her life. Hes heroic. Hes a hero. [Other men] would never, she said of his actions to protect her.

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PNB Rock performs on September 3, 2017 in Philadelphia - Credit: Shareif Ziyadat/WireImage

The man charged with sending his armed 17-year-old son into a Roscoes Chicken & Waffles restaurant to rob celebrated rapper PnB Rock was found guilty of felony murder, two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy at a trial in Compton, Calif., on Wednesday.

The jury took less than four hours to decide Freddie Trone, 42, orchestrated the brazen daylight robbery that ultimately claimed the musicians life. During nine days of testimony, jurors heard that the alleged teen shooter, charged separately in juvenile court, stalked into the restaurant wearing a ski mask and a Fruity Pebbles T-shirt and then opened fire on the artist and his fiancee Stephanie Sibounheuang only seconds after shouting, If you dont give me the jewelry, Im going to blow her head off. Sibounheuang had recounted the terrifying attack on the witness stand, saying Allen threw her under the table when the gunfire erupted. A medical examiner testified PnB Rock, born Rakim Allen, was shot once in the chest and twice in the back.

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Trones co-defendant Tremont Jones, 46, also was found guilty Wednesday of two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy. Prosecutors alleged Jones was the one who tipped Trone off to the rapper walking into the Roscoes with both Sibounheuang and a half-million dollars worth of jewelry on September 12, 2022. Sentencing for both men is set for August 27.

Im elated, Allens mom Deannea Allen told Rolling Stone moments after the verdict was read. I wanted to jump up and scream, Hallelujah. Im so happy it was quick. We got justice for Rakim. I feel better knowing theyll be in jail for a long time.

Reached by phone, Sibounheuang said Wednesday she was thankful for the verdict. Im grateful we could get justice so soon, she tells Rolling Stone. I dont have to be concerned about who did it. I dont have to worry about where it came from. I know exactly where it came from, and I know that justice is served.

The jury foreperson, Edwin Lovo, tells Rolling Stone that the panel of four women and eight men focused their attention on the surveillance video of the Buick Enclave that delivered the alleged teen shooter to the scene and then picked him up minutes later. Trone testified in his own defense during the trial that he was not in the car at that point and that he later found his son in a nearby parking lot with three other young men. Lovo said the jury zoomed in on video of the vehicle fleeing the shooting and identified Trone in the drivers seat based on his clothing.

We could clearly see it was him, Lovo said. There was somebody with a white shirt and frayed pants in the car. It was the dad driving the car. He was an accomplice. So that led us to follow the verdict form and check off all those points. Lovo said it was an overhead camera on a nearby church that captured the birds eye view into the vehicle from the passenger side. He said no one else was in the front, so jurors could see the drivers thigh and make out the distinctive clothing that Trone was spotted wearing that day.

In closing arguments this week, Deputy District Attorney Timothy Richardson said that Trone knew his son was dangerous when he plotted the robbery that quickly turned deadly. Trones defense lawyer, Winston McKesson, had argued that the dad was at the Roscoes minutes before the shooting not to plan the robbery, as prosecutors alleged, but to drum up business for his beauty supply shop and buy marijuana from Jones. He said Trones son swiped the keys to the Enclave minutes later back at the beauty supply shop and then traveled to the Roscoes for the deadly shooting without the dads knowledge.

That short six-minute timespan between when Trone left the Roscoes parking lot at 1:14 p.m. that day and when his Enclave was seen on surveillance returning to the scene was a major focus of the trial. Richardson argued that during that six minutes, Trone armed his son with the semi-automatic gun, the ski mask, and the robbery plot.

McKesson had urged jurors to scrutinize the surveillance video showing the shooter arriving in the car outside the Roscoes in South Los Angeles. He said the teen was seen exiting the Enclave from the seat behind the driver, entering and exiting the Roscoes, and running back to the closest backseat door before hesitating and circling around to the backseat on the drivers side. He said that proved there were more people in the car and supported Trones testimony he wasnt there. The jury rejected that argument.

In his final rebuttal after McKesson spoke, Richardson told jurors that the six critical minutes simply werent enough time for Trones version of events. He argued that the surveillance video of the Enclave from the neighborhood shows you where the vehicle went, and a round trip to Trones shop several more blocks away was impossible.

In six minutes, the defense want you to believe that [the teen shooter] rounded up his boys, got a strap, hopped in his dads car, and drove back to the Roscoes, Richardson argued. Coincidence? No. Coordinated acts? Yes.

Richardson delivered the bulk of his closing argument on Monday, going over the many surveillance videos that pieced together Allens final hours and the aftermath that included Trones movements before he admittedly burned the Enclave a few blocks from his wifes residence after the shooting. On Tuesday, Trones lawyer argued that with all these videos collected by investigators, the only time Trone was seen actually getting into the vehicle was when he left the Roscoes parking lot after speaking with Jones for the three minutes leading up to 1:14 p.m. The lawyer said the covered item that Jones handed Trone during the meeting was the marijuana, not a gun supplied for an alleged conspiracy to commit robbery.

He told you why he buys the weed. He said its because smoking marijuana does a better job to balance his sons chemical imbalance and has a better total effect than Adderall, McKesson said, referring to the medication that Trone said his son had been prescribed.

The lawyer also used his final address to jurors to fault investigators for not collecting surveillance video from the area around Trones beauty shop, about a half-mile away. He argued such video would have backed up Trones claim that his car was stolen by his son and that an unidentified person with a burgundy SUV picked him up so he could search for his son. The defense lawyer said prosecutors also failed to provide evidence of any communication between Trone and Jones before they met up in the Roscoes parking lot about a half hour after Allen first appeared and fist-bumped Jones as he entered the Roscoes with Sibounheuang.

Theres no evidence to show my client was paged to get there, no phone calls, no text messages. They want you to believe he just intuited that his services on a robbery homicide would be required, McKesson argued. He claimed investigators had their mind made up and ignored anything that could prove his clients innocence. Theres no evidence that my client planned anything. You have no evidence that he intended anything, he said. This young [shooter] acted independently of his dad. There is no evidence that he controlled that boy.

Richardson rebutted that he wasnt required to show that there was extensive pre-planning or even that Jones met with the teen shooter before the homicide. He called the robbery conspiracy a crime of opportunity. He also called it astonishing that Trone admitted he was buying weed for his teen son to replace prescription drugs.

Richardson urged the jurors to question why Trone never identified the person who allegedly picked him up in the burgundy SUV. That is the person that can account for those six minutes of Mr. Freddie Trones life  He just needs these six minutes of explanation not captured on a camera. Mr. Freddie Trone didnt want to give you the name of that person  the sole person to provide an alibi, Richardson argued. He said the reason was because the driver didnt exist.

Allens mother attended the closing arguments but left the courtroom before Richardson showed the video from inside the Roscoes that showed the first muzzle flash from the shooters gun. Speaking to Rolling Stone on Monday, Deannea said it had been devastating when she saw the autopsy photo of her son that was shown on a courtroom screen at the start of Richardsons closing.

The grieving mom called Trones alibi story ridiculous. Im here to get justice. I want justice. This was my son, my child, Deannea said. I want the jury to know he has a family who loves him and wants to support him.

For his part, Jones said he played no role in the alleged father-son robbery plot. His defense lawyer, David Haas, reminded jurors Tuesday that his client was not charged with murder, only two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy. He said Jones was well-known at the Roscoes, so the theory he handed Trone a gun in full view of a Roscoes security camera made no sense. Haas also highlighted the lack of any phone calls or electronic communication the day of the shooting beyond a single 1-second cell phone connection between Trone and Jones that he dismissed as meaningless. This case is so thin, Haas said in his closing argument. What if Mr. Jones is simply a weed dealer?

Allens stunning murder 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 collaborations such as his 2019 feature on Ed Sheerans Cross Me.

After the slaying, Allens fiancee faced a barrage of accusations that her Instagram post about her meal at the Roscoes that day led the shooter to their location. When Sibounheuang testified, her since-deleted post was shown to the jury. She confirmed it didnt specify which Roscoes location she was at and only showed her food. Considering the couple didnt even receive their food until 1:12 p.m., according to video inside the Roscoes, the post would have coincided with, or come after, Trones meeting with Jones in the restaurants parking lot. Richardson argued that it was Jones seeing the diamond-encrusted rings, chains and watches on the rap artist during their fist-bump at 12:31 p.m. that set the robbery plot in motion, not the post. The jury agreed.

We considered the Instagram post, but in terms of timing, it just wasnt plausible. Also, the picture was only the plate of food. There was nothing of Rakim, nothing of Stephanie, no jewelry in the pictures, so the evidence from that specific post didnt cause enough reasonable doubt, Lovo, the jury foreman, tells Rolling Stone.

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. Hes heroic. Hes a hero. [Other men] would never, she told Rolling Stone as she left the courthouse.

Best of Rolling Stone
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  Several police agencies collaborated to arrest a suspected serial cigarette thief tied to incidents in Grove City, Westland, and Worthington.

Dontevious Malone-Edwards was arrested Monday after allegedly stealing hundreds of packs from at least three convenience stores over seven days this spring.

On March 18, Malone-Edwards reportedly entered a Speedway on Stringtown Road in Grove City about 10 a.m. Police said he walked behind the gas station register and gained access to the storage room, where he took 232 packs of cigarettes valued at about $2,243. He was then seen leaving the store via video surveillance and witness statements.

Nonprofit, Columbus police to hold homicide victim awareness march and block party

About 2:15 p.m. March 24, Malone-Edwards again allegedly entered an employee-only room at a Speedway on West Broad Street in Westland. Police say he stole about $2,072 worth of cigarettes.

Two days later, Worthington police reported that a Duchess/BP station employee said an unknown male entered the stores back office and stole four cartons of Marlboro cigarettes, valued at $693. The suspect exited the office and pushed aside the store clerk on his way out of the store.

At the BP station, a second employee was reporting attending to a woman who left with the suspect, later identified as Malone-Harris. Police believe the woman was distracting the clerk.

The two were seen leaving in a black Ford Explorer. That same vehicle was spotted in similar crimes by other agencies.

The woman, 37-year-old Keitra Reed, had warrants for her arrest in relation to the Westland and Worthington incidents, and a Franklin County Sheriffs deputy said he has a number of cases involving the two suspects.

Reed and Malone-Harris are charged with two counts of burglary. Malone-Harris also was charged with theft.

In Franklin County Municipal Court, Malone-Harris was issued $65,000 in total bond amounts across all three cases. He is next scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 15.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
A man was taken into custody after firing at officers during a Tuesday morning welfare check at a north Phoenix home, according to police and court documents.

Court records show Matthew Beckner-Gonzalez, 36, is being charged with one count each on suspicion of:

Aggravated assault on police officers, a Class 2 felony.

Discharging a firearm within city limits, a Class 6 felony.

Endangerment by recklessly endangering another person with substantial or imminent death or physical injury, a Class 6 felony.

Passive resisting, a Class 1 misdemeanor.

A pair of patrol officers were responding to a welfare check call at about 8 a.m. Tuesday at a home in the area of North 35th and West Potter drives when they were met by Beckner-Gonzalez and his mother at the door, police said. Officers, who had announced themselves when they knocked on the door, gave Beckner-Gonzalez commands and drew their weapons upon seeing a gun in his hand, later revealed to be a 9mm handgun, according to police and court documents.

Beckner-Gonzalez's mother grabbed his arms, and the two fell to the ground, with him firing approximately sixshots in the officers' direction as he went back inside the house without officers returning fire, according to police and court documents. The officers found cover behind a parked SUV near the home's front door and radioed about shots being fired, court documents mention.

Officers ordered Beckner-Gonzalez out of his home, police said. Beckner-Gonzalez walked out with his mother shielding him as officers aimed their guns at him, according to court documents. An officer saw Beckner-Gonzalez's hands were empty and grabbed hold of the suspect's arm, court documents detail.

The pair of officers tried handcuffing Beckner-Gonzalez, but he pulled away both arms before a third officer arrived and grabbed the suspect by one arm as one of the first two officers grabbed the arm, according to court documents.

Officers and "community members" were not injured, police added.

While at the police station, Beckner-Gonzalez told police he was afraid to be murdered and carried his handgun with him to protect himself from nearby criminals, adding he did not hear officers announce themselves at his door, according to court documents. Beckner-Gonzalez told police "someone" forced him to pull the trigger, and he shot three times toward "the enemy," court documents state.

As of Wednesday morning, according to jail records, Beckner-Gonzalez was being held on a $200,000 bond and had a court appearance set for Aug. 13.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Police arrest man they say fired at them in north Phoenix welfare call
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  Law enforcement agencies across the country celebrated National Night out on Tuesday night, focused on bringing families and police and other first responders together.

It was an electric atmosphere in Southeast D.C. with officers from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) dancing to the music.

Bowie PD prepares for fun with the community at National Night Out

That includes 6-year-old Zahir Simmons, though not technically on the payroll. Simmons has business cards saying hes the chief of police.

DC News Now asked his mom Simone Simmons, How does the actual chief feel about this?

Oh she loves it. She embraces it, Simone Simmons said. So youll see his pictures of her on Instagram. She gave him a little tour and let him be the chief.

Zahir Simmons has spent the last three years with one goal in mind.



I want to be a police [officer.] I seen it, I love it. I want to be one, Zahir Simmons said.

Its one of the reasons National Night Out is so popular.

I wanted to try on the vest because it looked fun and my dads a police [officer] and I always see him putting it on in the morning so I wanted to try, Mackenzie Digs said as she tried on an FBI bulletproof vest.

National Night Out brought together law enforcement and the community.

Having young people in the presence of not just law enforcement officers, but for community members, for community leaders is so, very important, MPD Chief Pamela Smith said.

Community members prepare for National Night Out in Olney amid scorching heat

Smith said building relationships is what its all about, from kids to adults.



Weve got to have our community really reach out to us, let us know whats happening in their communities so we can help get some of these guns off our streets, Smith said.

From local police to the U.S. Marshals and FBI, the event made clear that a small connection can go a long way.

Theyre people. Theyre not just out here. They have a job. It shows them the warm side of them and the fun side of them, Simone Simmons said.

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The Fairway Police Department took time to honor and remember a fallen officer Wednesday, one year after he was fatally shot while on duty.

Chief of Police J.P. Thurlo released a statement Wednesday afternoon in remembrance of Jonah Oswald, a 29-year-old husband and father of two young children, on the anniversary of his death.

We miss Jonah every day, Thurlo said.

Thurlo shared memories of Oswald cracking jokes at the police station and waving to citizens as he patrolled Fairway.

While Jonah is no longer here in person, his spirit continues to live on with the men and women of our police department, Thurlo said. Jonah believed in service and selflessness, and we will carry that legacy forever in Jonahs honor.

The shooting

Oswald was among the officers responding to a situation that began with a stolen vehicle report and ended in gunfire on Aug. 7, 2023. Lenexa police chased a stolen SUV, whose driver allegedly rammed into a patrol vehicle. Police said the suspects bailed out of the vehicle and ran into a QuikTrip at 4700 Lamar Ave.

Oswald was critically wounded during an exchange of gunfire and later died in the hospital. Also killed at the scene was one suspect in the auto theft, identified by police as 40-year-old Shannon Wayne Marshall, of Ashland City, Tennessee.

In December 2023, Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe determined police acted lawfully in killing Marshall. Oswald was shot in the head while trying to force open a bathroom stall Marshall occupied, according to an analysis and summary report released by the district attorneys office.

A parade of first responder vehicles left from 93rd Street and Metcalf Avenue in Overland Park on Saturday night in honor of fallen Fairway police officer Jonah Oswald. The vehicles drove through Overland Park, Mission, Fairway and Prairie Village. The procession ended at Harmon Park in Prairie Village, where a candlelight vigil took place.

The other suspect, 32-year-old Andrea Cothran of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, is charged with seven felonies and a misdemeanor including: first-degree murder, recklessly fleeing law enforcement, aggravated battery against a law enforcement officer, firearm possession by a felon and three counts of theft.

Cothran is due to appear in Division 15 of Johnson County District Court at 1:30 p.m. Dec. 5 for a pre-trial conference. Jury selection is set to begin Dec. 16.

Forever grateful

In his statement Wednesday afternooon, Thurlo said he wanted to remember those closest to Oswald, including his wife, two young children and his parents.

Their grief remains immeasurable, but we will always be here for them and consider them part of our family, he said.

Thurlo said he wanted to thank the community for supporting the police department and Oswalds family throughout the past year.

Words alone cannot express how much that support has meant to us and helped us grieve and process the darkest of days in Jonahs absense, Thurlo said. We are forever grateful.

The Stars Matti Gellman and Anna Spoerre contributed.
BELVIDERE, Ill. (WTVO)  10 cities across the Stateline celebrated National Night Out in style, with free food, activities, giveaways and more.

National Night Out combines community and law enforcement with one another in an entertaining way to encourage neighborhood camaraderie. It was introduced in August of 1984 and is celebrated on the first Tuesday of August. Belvidere Police Department took initiative this year to begin their own tradition of hosting National Night Out in a park, this year choosing Big Thunder Park.

We used to combine with other departments in our area, but the guys have been working so hard, so we figured wed organize our own and see how it goes, Deputy Chief Officer Dan Smaha said.

Officer Smaha also said the event is an opportunity for law enforcement to give back to the community.

Belvidere is just that tight knit community; its my home, Officer Smaha said. Its hard-working people that just want to sleep in peace at night. Were just trying to meet everyone and give back to our community. Were saying thank you to them for allowing us to do what we do. We want to keep them safe.

Winnebago County had celebrations of their own and featured officers from Loves Park and Machesney Park as well. Senior Deputy Officer Tim Coomer said National Night Out is the perfect chance to meet some neighbors.

We want people to get to know us and we want to get to know our neighbors as well, Officer Coomer said. This is just a good opportunity to bring everyone together. Come on out, have conversation with us, talk to us and get to know each other a little bit more. That just makes the world a little better.

One resident in attendance at Big Thunder Park Ed Bakken said hes lived in the area for over 50 years and is appreciative of the police department.

Theres a lot of publicity out there about how cops are terrible, and this is wrong and that is wrong, Bakken said. This is a good thing to meet people and meet the police, especially for the younger kids and stuff. Its a nice community event.

Officer Smaha said he plans on continuing Belvideres new tradition in the future.

Sometimes we see people on their worst days, and wed like to see them on their best days too, Officer Smaha said. Its going to be its going to be an annual event. Your first year is always trial and error. We will do this again next year and it will be bigger and better.

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The video player above shows a Horseheads Police Officer striking a man on the ground in the head and neck area during an arrest at an after-party in Elmira on Sunday, Aug 4.

18 News received a statement from the President of the Elmira Police Benevolence Association after the original article was published, that statement was added to the story.

ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)  18 News confirmed on Tuesday with Police that an investigation is underway into a Horseheads Police Officer who was seen striking an individual while they were on the ground following an after-party on Sunday.

Police say they were responding to a disturbance involving up to 100 people on the 400 block of West Hudson Street. Police say the crowd was made up of the same individuals that were at a disturbance about two hours earlier in the 200 block of West Water Street in downtown Elmira. Police say the disturbance happened after nearly 300 people left a private, ticketed event at a recently opened bar called The Playground that closed at 1 a.m.

In a video obtained by 18 News, several police officers were seen surrounding one man dressed in white along the sidewalk area on Connelly Avenue, just off West Hudson Street, and bringing him to the ground. One officer from the Horseheads Police Department in the video appeared to strike the man at least five times in the head and neck area while he was face down on the ground. Police say the man was later charged with disorderly conduct and obstruction of governmental administration.

Horseheads Police Chief Michael Suhey told 18 News officers were responding to a reported armed person call in the area, around 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, Aug 4. On Wednesday, Aug 7, Deputy Chief Scott Packard with the Elmira Police Department also confirmed that a call came in that a black male in all-white clothing was going to a car to retrieve a weapon. Packard said that he is still waiting for a full call record and communication from the comm center from that event. Deputy Chief Packard said no weapons were found at the scene.

Information we received from the Horseheads Police Department stated that an investigation was launched into the conduct, with Chief Suhey saying everything was being looked into. Suhey, the Elmira Police Department, and other agency officials told 18 News that no complaints have been reported to the police regarding these incidents. Elmira Police added on Wednesday that officers and officials have spoken to community members regarding the incidents, but again, no official reports were filed with EPD.

However, in the original report from the Elmira Police Department, there was no mention of a weapon, saying police were called to the area for disturbances and loud noise in the 400 block of West Hudson Street. In the report from Aug. 4, police said that five people were arrested at that scene and charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and obstruction of governmental administration.

Original Post: 14 arrested during Elmira parties and street fights

Elmira Police Department provided a second statement on Tuesday regarding the videos circulating on social media. In his statement, Elmira Police Chief Kristen Thorne said that the videos show officers using force on non-compliant subjects at the scene.

It should be noted that strikes in some instances are used as a manner to obtain compliance or to assist in securing an individual into custody, Thorne said in the statement. Knee strikes in one video appear to be utilized which immediately is followed with securing the individual into handcuffs, Thorne said.

Deputy Chief Packard told 18 News on Wednesday the man who was being kneed in the side was refusing orders to leave the area, interfering with an officer while they were helping someone else, and yelling at police. Packard said he was charged with obstruction and disorderly conduct which would match up with the original reporting by Elmira Police on who was arrested and the related charges.

Chief Thorne added that when any use of force is used by the Elmira Police Department, a procedure is followed and is reviewed. The procedure includes a review of paperwork, photos, and body cam videos by at least one supervisor, the deputy chief, or the chief of police. Thorne said the use of force is reviewed further by including what led up to it and the events directly after, with any deficiencies being addressed accordingly.

18 News received a statement on Wednesday from Elmira Police Benevolence Association President, Brooks Shaw. Shaw said he saw the videos from West Hudson Street and spoke to different officers at the scene.

The officers were attempting to effect an arrest on a subject who was actively resisting arrest, Shaw said, Reports that the subject was handcuffed at the time area absolutely face, Shaw said about the man struck in the head/neck area.

The officers were forced to use necessary force against the subject in order to gain compliance from those actively resisting the police, Shaw said while concluding by saying the subject was known to police already.

This particular subject was known to local law enforcement for his history of weapons possession and history of violence, Shaw said at the end of his statement.

Shaws entire statement is below:

I have personally seen the videos from W. Hudson Street in the early morning hours of Sunday Morning. Although I was not there I have spoken to several officers on scene. The officers were attempting to effect an arrest on a subject who was actively resisting arrest. Reports that the subject was handcuffed at the time are absolutely false. The Officers were forced to use necessary force against the subject in order to gain compliance and effect the arrest. The use of force unfortunately never looks good but it is sometimes necessary to gain compliance from those actively resisting the police. This particular subject was known to local Law Enforcement for his history of weapoms possession and history of violence. 

In the video above you can see an Elmira Police Officer using knee strikes on an individual before placing them in handcuffs. From what the police said this was a use of force as a way to obtain compliance.

The after-party of what police said was around 70 to 100 people Sunday morning, stems from a larger private party of around 300 people at The Playground on West Water Street in downtown Elmira. Police reported that several fights broke out in the street around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday after people refused to leave the area after the party, resulting in nine arrests at the location.

3 minors to appear in court after group assault in Ithaca

One of the owners of The Playground, Kaylen Knox, put out a post on his personal Facebook page on Sunday addressing the incident. In the statement, Knox said that nothing happened inside the bar and that what happened on West Water Street was beyond his teams control.

We have taken every measure to ensure a safe and secure environment within our premises, Knox said. At The Playground Elmira, we prioritize your safety and enjoyment. Our team includes several safety team members, we use metal detectors, bag and personal inspections, along with constant monitoring to maintain a secure atmosphere, Knox said.

In an updated statement on Wednesday, Knox told 18 News that the doors to his establishment were closed at 11:30 p.m. and said there was a police presence down the street at a different incident before police arrived at his establishment.

We were unaware of an already police response to an incident happening down the street before the majority of the party attendees were released, Knox said. As our doors were closed for entry at 11:30 p.m. we were unaware of any issues occurring down the block and out of our line of sight before our patrons exited to go to their vehicles, he said.

Knox told 18 News that four professional security members and six safety observers were at the establishment the night of the party and that the Elmira Police Department was made aware of the party the morning before, and were in constant contact the day of the event.

Given our strong rapport with the Elmira Police Department, we contacted them three times that day, including one in-person meeting that morning, to communicate the large number of expected attendees and our event timeline, he said.

Know said he takes pride in maintaining one of the safest bars in Elmira, with high standards for safety and security. Knox expressed his thanks to the community, law enforcement, first responders, and fellow businesses.

You can read the full statement from Kaylen Knox below:

Statement on August 3rd Event at The Playground

Elmira, August 7th, 2024  The Playground wishes to address the events from the privately sponsored party that took place on August 3rd and the subsequent developments that followed.

First and foremost, we want to reiterate that our mission, regardless of the event, is to provide a pleasurable nightlife experience for our community. We deeply value all our patrons and the community as a whole. We are fortunate to have an excellent working relationship with our police and sheriffs departments and greatly appreciate the services they provide to our business and community.

Events of August 3rd:

A private promotion group sponsored a ticketed event at The Playground. To ensure safety, we employed four licensed security professionals and six safety observers for the event. We established three security checkpoints: an ID check area, a separate metal detection area, and a physical pat-down area, which every patron, including staff, had to pass through. Throughout the night, the event goers exhibited joy, positivity, and excitement. Inside the venue, there were no issues, and everyone had a fantastic time. We also provided trash cans upon exit to maintain cleanliness.

We became aware of a police presence as we turned on the lights and opened the doors for everyone to exit at the end of the night. We were unaware of an already police response to an incident happening down the street before the majority of the party attendees were released. As our doors were closed for entry at 11:30 PM. We were unaware of any issues occurring down the block and out of our line of sight before our patrons exited to go to their vehicles.

Given our strong rapport with the Elmira Police Department, we contacted them three times that day, including one in-person meeting that morning, to communicate the large number of expected attendees and our event timeline. We appreciate and respect the partnership we have with the police and sheriffs departments and will continue to work to foster a positive experience in downtown Elmira.

We take pride in maintaining one of the safest bars in Elmira, with high standards for safety and security. We will continue to exceed expectations with our dedicated team members.

Additionally, we encourage our community, whether at The Playground or any of the other fantastic bars in the area, to strive for positive nights out, make it home safely, and respect each other at all times.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our community, law enforcement, first responders, and fellow businesses.

18 News interview with Dr. Stephen Coleman and Mayor Dan Mandell.

18 News interview with NAACP Elmira/Corning President Georgia Verdier.

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ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WPRI)  Attleboro police are searching for a man who tried to rob a convenience store, then started a fire after he didnt get any money.

Police said they were called to Lucky Lotto on Washington Street around 11:50 p.m. Tuesday.

The clerk told police the man walked around the store, then left and grabbed a clear glass bottle containing a liquid substance.

When the clerk asked about the bottle, the suspect said he was there to rob him and threatened to burn down the store if he was not given any money, according to police.

Hannah Cotter/WPRI-TV

The clerk refused to give him money, police said, so the suspect emptied the bottle onto the mat in front of the doorway and used a lighter to ignite it before leaving. The clerk quickly put out the fire, police added.

ALSO READ: Police looking for Fall River armed robbery suspect

Police said the suspect was last seen running down Washington Street toward Pawtucket.

He is described as a light-skinned male with a medium build who stands between 6 feet and 6 feet, 3 inches tall.

The suspect was wearing a black face mask, a hooded sweatshirt with a white Jordan logo, black pants with white markings, black and white sneakers, and a small black backpack.

Anyone with information is asked to call Attleboro detectives at (508) 222-1212.











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RANDALLS ISLAND, Manhattan (PIX11)  The New York Police Department reveals they did not find any contraband nor did they make any arrests during a raid on the migrant shelter on Randalls Island, according to a spokesperson.

Police using K-9 units searched the migrant shelter for guns and drugs last Friday around 1 p.m. Investigators said it was in response to a deadly shooting that killed one woman and left two others injured on July 29.

More Local News

Migrants were not allowed to enter or leave the shelter as the raid was conducted on a day that felt like nearly 100 degrees. One person told PIX11s Henry Rosoff that they waited outside for five hours after being told the search would be quick.

Temporarily displacing and conducting a police raid on 3,000 new arrivals not only raises serious constitutional questions, but is draconian and fuels dangerous xenophobic sentiment, said organizers from The Legal Aid Society and the Coalition for the Homeless.

More Manhattan News

The organization criticized the citys move saying the search treated asylum seekers like threats and contributed to the climate of suspicion between migrants and city staff.

PIX11 has reached out to the mayors office for a statement but did not yet hear back at the time of publication.

Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
The Palmhurst Police Department in Texas received a call on Thursday, August 1st, about a cat in distress with a jar stuck on its head. The city was experiencing temperatures in the high 90s to low 100s, and the cat could not drink water and could barely see through the plastic jar. Unsure how long the cat had been in the situation, police jumped in quickly to try to help.

In the video, the two responding officers figure out how best to grab and hold the cat to remove the jar. They end up getting a jacket and placing it over the cat. Once they can do that, things move quickly, and soon after, they are able to give the panting cat some food.

I feel so bad for the cat, whom they named 'Jar Jar', but I'm happy to share that Palmhurst P.D. transported the cat to the Palm Valley Animal Society for medical evaluation. Now the cat is safe and doing well. No update on whether Jar Jar is a stray cat or if its owner was found. If it is a stray, I'm sure there will be a lot of people interested in adopting the survivor!

Related: Mans Daring Rescue of Cat From Ledge 47 Floors up Is Making Peoples Palms Sweat

The Agility of Cats

Even though Jar Jar was unable to see, you could tell in the video that he was still agile and able to run quickly and jump pretty high. Cats are known for their agility, and it all boils down to how their bodies are built. Cat.com explains, "Cats have a well-adapted physiology for flexibility and agility. They have cushioned vertebrae that can twist and flex, long tails for balance, and loose shoulder blades for long strides and bursts of speed. Their handily small clavicles allow them to squeeze through tiny gaps, and their inner ear controls their famed ability to land on their feet."

Their tails also come into play when it comes to their agility. The tail helps with balance, climbing, and jumping. Their little toe beans act as shock absorbers to help when they land after jumping down from great heights.

Why do cats need to be so agile and flexible? It's all about survival. "Their hunting strategy relies on two things. Firstly, stealthy stalking requires agility and grace, as well as sneaking through small spaces. Secondly, an agile and powerful pounce to catch their unsuspecting prey unawares."

While Jar Jar was clearly distressed after this experience, it was the calmness and caring of the officers that saved him. With temperatures so high, I'm sure that a cat couldn't survive long in the suffocating heat of the jar and with no water. Thanks to law enforcement for stepping in to help. Maybe Jar Jar can become the department's mascot!

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A 31-year-old woman accused in a lawsuit of abusing a non-verbal autistic child at a North Texas behavioral center was taken into custody by Lubbock authorities, North Richland Hills police said Thursday.

Ashley Moreno was wanted on a charge of second-degree felony injury to a child.

Moreno is named in a lawsuit filed by the childs parents. The suit says video shows Moreno picking up the 7-year-old boy and throwing him against a wall at the ABA Interactive behavioral therapy center in North Richland Hills.

Kiara Henry, 34, of North Richland Hills, is already in police custody on a charge of failure to report the abuse, a state jail felony under the Texas family code, police said Wednesday. Henry, owner of ABA Interactive, is named in the suit and accused of lying about the abuse and attempting to cover it up.

Investigators were not immediately able to locate Moreno. In the suit, the family alleges Moreno was not fired following the abuse and was instead assigned to home therapy with children.

The North Richland Hills Police Department encouraged anyone with information related to the investigation to call 817-427-7030 or Crime Stoppers at 817-469-8477.

 More top stories from our newsroom:

 CrossFit Games athlete Lazar ukic dies in swim at Fort Worth lake

 Tarrant deputy shot 3 times. Suspect dead after standoff

 Police search for North Texas woman accused of abusing autistic child

[Get our breaking news alerts.]
Erie, Pa (WJET/WFXP)  In the early morning hours on Monday, State Police responded to reports that two vehicles were stolen from the Humes Dealership in Waterford.

Police were told that the complainant arrived at the dealership due to an alarm when he noticed that two vehicles had been stolen from the business.

One of the vehicles stolen was a 2024 red Dodge Hornet which was located later in the day.

The other vehicle was a 2023 blue Dodge Challenger. Around an hour later while searching the area of East 6th Street and Ash Street, PSP Erie located the 2023 blue Dodge Challenger.

When PSP attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the vehicle fled at a high rate of speed leading police on a 35-minute chase covering 61 miles. The chase crossed state lines into New York State and was terminated around Irving, New York, along Interstate 90. NY State Police terminated their pursuit after they were unable to keep pace with the vehicle, at which point PSP terminated their chase due to a lack of New York State Troopers able to assist.

Police are still searching for the 2023 Blue Dodge Challenger (See picture below for reference), if you have any information about the stolen vehicle you can call PSP Erie at (814) 898-1641.

2023 Dodge Challenger (The Actual Vehicle color is blue)

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
ALIQUIPPA  Police are searching for an unidentified man involved in a city bank robbery Monday afternoon.

In a social media post Wednesday afternoon, members of the Aliquippa Police Department said they were called to an active robbery at the Citizen's Bank in Aliquippa at 3:43 p.m. Aug. 5. When they arrived, police were informed that a man wearing construction attire, a mask and gloves had come in with a gun to demand money from the tellers.

During the incident, the man obtained approximately $2,000 in cash from the bank and a patron who had gone to make a direct deposit. After obtaining the money, the masked man fled from the bank on foot, and his whereabouts currently remain unknown.

Police said similar incidents, with what the department says is "the same motive," recently took place in Canton, Ohio. At this time, it is unclear if these events are connected or what the potential "motive" is being investigated by detectives.

As of Wednesday, the man is believed to be armed and dangerous. Those who believe they may have encountered the bank robber are encouraged to call 911 to report the incident. Community members who believe they know the suspected bank robber are encouraged to call the Federal Bureau of Investigations Pittsburgh at 412-432-4000.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Police searching for bank robber suspect from incident in Aliquippa
Myreshia Macon, the mother of a 17-year-old who was shot and killed by Baltimore police officers, right, visits a memorial for her son near the scene of the shooting in Baltimore, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

BALTIMORE (AP)  After police officers shot and killed a fleeing teenager, residents of his southwest Baltimore neighborhood are outraged at what they consider the latest case of excessive force targeting a young Black man.

Authorities have released few details about the Monday night shooting, which follows two others that unfolded under similar circumstances last year in Baltimore. All three encounters escalated quickly, starting when officers saw someone on the street and believed they could be armed.

The teen displayed characteristics of an armed person and ran away when officers tried to engage with him, Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said in a news conference later that night. He said police caught up to the juvenile suspect and a brief struggle ensued. Three officers opened fire after realizing he had a gun, Worley said.

None of the officers were injured. Officials said a loaded handgun was recovered from the scene.

Bodycam footage of the shooting hasnt been released yet and police declined to answer questions about how many times the teen was shot and whether he pointed a gun at officers. They also didnt say whether he was shot in the back or whether officers gave any verbal warning before opening fire.

They didnt just kill him  that was overkill, said Taavon Bazemore, 55, who lives and works in the neighborhood. Yall using a whole lot of force for no reason. He shouldnt have a gun, but that dont give you the right to kill him.

Bazemore, who said his cousin was killed by Baltimore police in 2001, said he believes theres a double standard for law enforcement officers. In this case, he questioned whether they could have used a stun gun or some other less lethal form of restraint.

Its not right and its not fair, he said. Were talking about a kid. Hes a child.

Police shootings in other cities have also raised similar issues in recent years, with prosecutors, courts and the public considering when an officer should use whatever means necessary to stop a fleeing suspect.

Authorities have not publicly identified the teen, saying only that he was underage. The Maryland Attorney Generals Office, which is tasked with investigating in-custody deaths, cited juvenile privacy laws in their decision to withhold his name.

Neighbors said he was 17 years old. They said he sometimes picked up work at a nearby convenience store and was a familiar face in the area.

Loved ones created a makeshift memorial and left handwritten messages on the corner where he died, using tealight candles to spell his name and decorating a street sign with streamers and balloons.

His mom, Myreshia Macon, visited the memorial late Wednesday afternoon.

In addition to processing the shock of her sons death, she said shes frustrated that police are withholding critical details about what happened in the moments before he was killed.

Im just broken. Broken and upset, she said. The same way theyre keeping the public out of the loop, theyre keeping me blindsided, too. I dont know nothing.

The Baltimore Police Department has implemented a series of reforms in recent years after the 2015 death of Freddie Gray turned an unwelcome spotlight on the agency. Much of its efforts have focused on restoring public trust, but residents of the citys majority-Black communities often complain that little has changed.

Peggy Kallon, who runs a corner store in the neighborhood, said shes heartbroken over the shooting. While acknowledging that police officers have a difficult and dangerous job, she questioned their reasoning in this case.

He was a good kid, she said. Seventeen years old and they just shot him like that.  Im speechless.



Associated Press photographer Stephanie Scarbrough contributed to this report.
By Isabelle Yr Carlsson

COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -A Polish man was sentenced to four months in prison on Wednesday for punching Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen while she walked through Copenhagen in June, in a case that raised concern over the safety of public officials in the Nordic country.

The 39-year-old was found guilty of assault on a public servant and sentenced to prison, after which he will be deported from Denmark and banned from returning for six years, the court ruled. He punched Frederiksen after a chance encounter and while she walked across a public square.

"The defendant struck the prime minister with a clenched fist on the right shoulder, whereby the prime minister was thrown off balance," the court's verdict read.

The man was disappointed with the verdict but decided not to appeal, his lawyer Henrik Karl Nielsen said in an emailed statement.

Since the man had already been in custody for two months, he would only have to serve two out of the four months of his sentence, Nielsen added.

The prime minister's office declined to comment.

The attack, 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 places.

Frederiksen, whom witnesses have said was able to leave the scene unaided after the assault, has said in a television interview that she was shaken up after the incident.

The man had told the court on Tuesday that he had recognised Frederiksen but denied touching her, according to the court.

He had admitted in court to some separate charges of fraud and indecent exposure, while denying others.

(Reporting by Isabelle Yr Carlsson, editing by Louise Rasmussen, Anna Ringstrom, Alexandra Hudson)
A 39-year-old Polish man has been found guilty of assaulting Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in June, national broadcaster DR reported on Wednesday.

The man, who DR didnt name because of legal restrictions, could face four months in prison and deportation from Denmark for six years.

Frederiksen was hit by a man in a public square in the capital Copenhagen on June 7, her office said.

The Polish man said he cant remember what happened, because he was drunk, according to DR.

Frederiksen, the leader of Denmarks center-left Socialist Democratic party, has served as prime minister since 2019.

Danish and European politicians expressed their shock following the attack in June.

Danish Minister of Environment Magnus Heunicke called for national unity at the time, saying: This is ugly and unacceptable. Lets show that Denmark is much better.

Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the attack a despicable act, which goes against everything we believe in and fight for in Europe.

The attack came weeks after Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot and wounded in what was the first major assassination attempt on a European political leader for more than 20 years.

Political analysts and lawmakers said at the time that it exposed an increasingly febrile and polarized political climate both in Slovakia and across Europe.

This story has been updated with additional details.

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The Scene

After weeks of deadly student-led protests against the government, Bangladesh is at a turning point.

Embattled prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Dhaka on Monday, leaving the country facing an uncertain future. Nobel-winning economist Muhammad Yunus is set to head a new interim government. Yunus called Hasinas overthrow a second liberation for Bangladesh, and lauded student protestors as the next generation of leaders in an article for The Economist  promising to enthusiastically support their new vision for the nation.

The many young people who spearheaded the protest movement have heeded the call.

We wont betray the blood shed by martyrs for our cause. We will create a new democratic Bangladesh through our promise of security of life, social justice and a new political landscape, Nahid Islam, the coordinator of the student movement said in a social media post on Tuesday.

The View From Bangladeshi Gen Z

Muhtarizah Ebnaat, 19, told Semafor that Gen Z Bangladeshis had woken up to the true face of the government as the protests unfolded. But Hasinas abrupt exit after enacting a crackdown on students represented an injustice, she said.

I heard from my father about how previous prime ministers and important people fled the country without getting their punishment, she said. So her fleeing, after doing all of this, was simply not right.

I personally dont know very much about [Muhammad Yunus], Ebnaat said, referring to the incoming interim leader, but if something doesnt go the right way, then Im pretty sure the whole nation will rise again.

Another student who spoke to Semafor on condition of anonymity said he believed younger generations will determine the nations future, but added that he worried the power vacuum left by Hasina could be exploited by outside actors [looking] to manufacture consent for their interventions.

My hope is that weve just gotten rid of a very dangerous government that would have led to Bangladeshs ruin [Student leaders] are preparing themselves for a long struggle of institutional reform, and changing the fate of the country to a better future, he said.

The View From Bangladeshi millenials

Bangladesh has witnessed absolute chaos since Hasinas resignation, and there are reports of looting and attacks on minorities, Arpeeta Shams Mizan, 35, who is an associate law professor at the University of Dhaka told Semafor.

She said she had heard from some of her Hindu friends that they were being vigilant in their villages, with the men guarding over their families all night for fear of being attacked.

Mizan said the students who led the movement had not anticipated this level of anarchy and that it was premature to celebrate the idea that this was the second liberation of Bangladesh, as some have declared.

Im wary of any kind of romanticization, she said.

Mizan suggested that some factions of the protesters who were less politically sensitized could back the party of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who was freed from prison after Hasinas ouster, instead of supporting the young peoples calls for a new political order.

The work we need to do is not just about removing the dictator in government, she said. Its about reforming the country. And that cant be done in one day, or even a week.

The View From The diaspora

Many young Bangladeshis living in New York City have celebrated Hasinas departure, Ashfia Alam, co-founder of nonprofit Children of 1971, told Semafor.

This is extremely historic for us, because a lot of people didnt think it would happen in our lifetime, Alam, 31, said. Students have always been at the heart of revolution, and when the government started killing students, no one was for that.

The fact that there are people who literally earn only enough to eat for the day, mothers coming out to feed students, the army coming out to support them its really telling of the community in Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi mentality, she added.

Some reports have suggested that Hasina could seek political asylum in the UK. If so, it could alienate Bangladeshis living there, Saiba Haque, a 24-year-old London resident, told Semafor. Hasinas niece, who is a member of parliament for the ruling Labour Party and a government minister, has been criticized in the past for her perceived silence on alleged human rights violations during Hasinas tenure.

A Home Office spokesperson told Semafor that it would not comment on individual cases when asked about Hasina potentially seeking asylum.

Notable

Having cultivated close ties with Hasina, India is now in a tricky spot, a South Asia expert argued in The Indian Express, as the mounting hatred against [Hasina] is bound to rub off.

Student protesters sought to break with Bangladeshs past and overcome the restrictive legacy of the 1971 liberation war, a columnist argued in The Diplomat.
VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis's weekly general audience at the Vatican on Wednesday was briefly interrupted by two women from an animal rights group, who shouted and held up signs against bullfighting.

The women walked down an aisle in the Vatican's Paul VI hall holding signs and wearing white t-shirts with slogans such as "Bullfighting is a sin" and "Stop blessing corridas," the Spanish term for the controversial spectacle.

They were quickly escorted out of the venue by security officials.

Francis was holding his first general audience on Wednesday after a month-long summer break during July, as he prepares for a hectic period of travel and major debates over the Catholic Church's future.

Wednesday's audience was taking place in the Vatican's audience hall, instead of St. Peter's Square, because of the high heat in Rome.

The two women wore shirts identifying them as part of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) organisation. It was at least the second protest by persons affiliated with the group at a papal event this year.

In January, two women held a similar protest about bullfighting during a prayer service featuring the pope at Rome's Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.

The activists contend that some Catholic priests offer blessings to local bullfighters.

Francis, who has made protection of the environment a signature part of his 11-year papacy, is not known to have commented on the issue. But one of his predecessors, the 16th-century Pope Pius V, did outlaw bullfighting, calling the practice "better suited to demons rather than men."

Traditional bullfights take place in Spain, France and several Latin American countries, and in Portugal where the bull is not killed in the ring.

(Reporting by Joshua McElwee; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KMSS)The city of Texarkana is using opioid settlement funds to equip a local non-profit with game-changing software.

$25,600 of settlement funds distributed to the city by the Texas Attorney General are going to the non-profit group Restore Hope so that local non-profit Ground Floor Collective can use the HopeHub software for their 100 Families initiative.

The HopeHub software connects service providers from a variety of areas.

Its our cloud-based data management portal that allows any organization to work together seamlessly on behalf of that family for their particular area of crisis. So typically, what we find is that when families are experiencing a crisis, its not just in one area; its usually in six or seven different places in their lives, says Kristina Rivas-Jones, Co-founder and Executive Director of Ground Floor Collective.

More: Texarkana News

The system assesses families across 13 critical areas: food, housing, safety, substance abuse recovery, mental health, physical health, dental health, transportation, childcare, legal assistance, education, employment, and financial stability.

They say addressing each of those areas of need alone can be a big burden.

The power of going into a place and telling your story to one person and then not having to tell it to every different agency that needs your information and your paperwork, says Tracy Pitman, the Board Chair for Ground Floor Collective.

The goal is to have intake points all over the community, at places where families are already comfortable seeking help.

All the homeless shelters are aware of our services, the community college, the food banks, says Rivas-Jones.

The software has already been used on the Arkansas side for over two years. Now that the entire Texarkana community has access to HopeHub, the success stories they have already seen are only going to become more common.

She left that appointment, the very first intake appointment, and she was on her way to the Salvation Army to pick up a box full of food. She had an appointment with the Domestic Violence Prevention Center on the books. She had somebody looking at her nursing classes to see how she can get it back. says Pitman.

The city has roughly $50,000 in additional settlement funds at its disposal. They say they are planning to use that money to hold opioid educational workshops for local organizations and community members, which would include Narcan training.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Light, Northwesterly winds are forecast to push wildfire smoke into the Portland area starting Wednesday afternoon and into Thursday, creating air quality advisories for the region.

KOIN 6 Meteorologist Kelley Bayern forecasts that air quality conditions could worsen from good to moderate by Wednesday afternoon.

Read More: Oregon Wildfires

Were hot and hazy today, Bayern said. Well start a three-day stretch in the 90s through Friday with a spike into the mid-upper 90s tomorrow. Wildfire smoke from fires in Washington will push across the Portland metro area by this afternoon. Air quality is expected to drop to the moderate category.

KOIN 6 Meteorologist Josh Cozart shares the Poor Air Quality Alert sent out by the National Weather Service out of Portland Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Oregon Coast Aquarium seal almost the oldest in history

This weeks temperatures are predicted to peak at 96 degrees on Thursday. Cooler weather in the 70s is forecast for early next week.

The National Weather Service predicts that the smoky haze will spread further west on Thursday, covering most of northwest Oregon and southwest Washington and other large areas of the Pacific Northwest.

The heaviest concentrations of smoke are expected within closer proximity to ongoing wildfires, especially in the Cascades and Hood River County, the NWS daily forecast discussion states.

Officials: Sensitive groups should avoid the outdoors

The Oregon Department of Environmental Equality is also warning the public that elevated ozone, a main component of smog, may reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups in both Vancouver and Portland through Thursday evening.

Its just hanging out there in the air, and it interacts with the heat and the sun, and thats what forms that air pollution, said Michael Loch, a DEQ spokesperson.

Smoke coming from the Williams Mine Fire burning near Mount Adams in Washington is of particular concern, he said.

Advocates: Customers cant afford PGE rate hike

With that, and all the other wildfires combined, we thought that the models might show that theres gonna be some smoke that comes here between now and Friday afternoon. But hopefully not, Loch said.

Dr. Sarah Present, a public health officer for Clackamas County, shed light on the vulnerable groups who may be impacted by the diminished air quality.

We consider that to be infants and young children, and thats because they breathe more frequently. Pregnant women also have circulation differences, Present said.

People with underlying conditions, such as those with lung and heart diseases, are also vulnerable, she added. Though Present said masking up helps, its best to avoid going outside altogether.

Details emerge of missing womans presumed death

Thats exactly what some neighbors said theyll be doing over the next few days.

Well probably just take it easy tomorrow then if its going to be bad, then come back when its nice and clear, said Bryan Haynes.

Shell be doing parkour around the couches and all that good stuff, said Alfred Tang while taking his dog on a walk.

For the latest air quality index in your area, visit AirNow.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 KOIN.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A Portland man is in custody and faces federal sex crimes charges after months of investigation, authorities said.

Lyle G. Gage Jr., 55, was arrested and accused of multiple child sex abuse charges, with the Portland Police Bureau releasing his photo in hopes of finding potentially more victims.

According to Portland police, the investigation began in March when they were contacted by a parent who said they had been contacted by a man on social media asking to buy nude images of her child.

Missing woman in Clark County presumed dead as detectives seek remains

Over the course of several months, authorities said they obtained search warrants for Gages devices where they uncovered numerous naked images of a seven-year-old girl as well as conversations with the girls 16-year-old sister.

Detectives said they found out that the girls lived in Wyoming and contacted the local authorities to contact the girls and their mother.

It was later learned that Gage had been threatening the teen to coerce her into sending him hundreds of explicit videos over two years, authorities said.

On Monday, Gage was arrested on charges including sexual exploitation of children, receipt of child pornography, possession of child pornography and coercion and enticement of a minor.

Authorities believe there could be other victims and they are asking anyone who thinks they could be a victim or who knows anything about the case to contact 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 KOIN.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A Portland man accused of talking to minors on the internet is in custody in Washington County, prompting an investigation for other possible victims in the U.S.

Detectives in North Carolina first tipped off the Washington County Sheriffs Office about 68-year-old Jon Scot Taylor and his alleged attempts to talk to children in July 2024.

Police ID man killed in I-84 head-on crash involving woman accused of DUII

An undercover deputy posed as a 13-year-old girl and had an online conversation with Taylor, who engaged in sexually explicit conversation and planned to meet the decoy on Aug. 2, according to officials.

Taylor now faces charges of first-degree online sexual corruption of a child and luring a minor.

Decreasing air quality likely around the PNW Wednesday

Authorities believe Taylor may have other victims. Anyone with information about his actions is encouraged to call 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.
Practice here without the law looking over your shoulder, New Mexico tells Texas doctors

The New Mexico Department of Health is recruiting Texas physicians with an ad campaign that targets the states strict abortion laws.

Full-page ads appeared in Sundays editions of five major newspapers in Texas, including the Star-Telegram.

The newspaper ads feature an open letter from New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham inviting Texas physicians to consider practicing next door in New Mexico if they are frustrated by the Lone Star States abortion law.

Texas has one of the strictest laws in the nation  it bans most abortions after the sixth week of pregnancy.

The only exception is for conditions that threaten the life of the mother, though the Texas Medical Board declined to clarify in June exactly what conditions those are.

Fort Worth OB-GYN Andrea Palmer told the Star-Telegram in a June interview that she was concerned about a drain on womens health care in Texas.

Palmer said that the best and brightest used to consider Texas a great place to continue their medical education and careers, but due to strict abortion laws, thats no longer the case.

Outside the need of abortion care, I think were going to end up with fewer OB-GYNs in the state over time, Palmer said.

Applications to Texas OB-GYN residencies fell 16% for the 2023-24 cycle, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Applications across all specialties fell by 11.7%, according to the association.

New Mexico needs doctors: 32 of the states 33 counties were federally designated Healthcare Professional Shortage Areas in 2023, according to the Albuquerque Journal.

The state spent $400,000 on newspaper ads in Texas and for billboards near Texas Medical Center in Houston, according to Patrick Allen, New Mexicos cabinet secretary for the Department of Health.

Allen said Texas was chosen because of its track record on abortion and its proximity to New Mexico. If the campaign is successful, Allen said, the department will consider expanding the campaign to other states.

In New Mexico, youre able to practice to the full extent of your medical judgment without worrying that a prosecutor or sheriff is looking over your shoulder second-guessing your health care judgment, Allen said.

The advertisements contain the URL to a website, Free To Provide NM.

The website contains a database of medical jobs in New Mexico, as well as resources for medical licensing and links to lifestyle and education resources.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts office hit back at Grisham in a statement after the ads release.

People and businesses vote with their feet, and continually they are choosing to move to Texas more than any other state in the country. Governor Lujan Grisham should focus on her states rapidly declining population instead of political stunts, officials with the governors office said.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Prasanth Reddy is set to face off against Sharice Davids for the 3rd District Congressional seat.

Reddy will represent the Republican party in the race to fill the 3rd Congressional District seat. This seat has been filled by Davids since 2018, where she is currently serving her third term. Davids and Crnkovich/ Reddy will go head-to-head in the General Election in Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Schmidt wins Democrat race after Gov. Kellys endorsement

For a full list of election results from area races, click here.

For more Capitol Bureau 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.
Officials were investigating after a pregnant mother lost her newborn baby early this year after being apprehended by border patrol agents, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection in a news release on Tuesday.

On the afternoon of Feb. 25, Ajo-based U.S. Border Patrol agents found and apprehended a dozen migrants about 12 miles west of the Lukeville Port of Entry, according to the news release.

Amongst the group was a woman from Angola, a country in southcentral Africa. The woman reportedly attempted to communicate with authorities who were unable to understand her, initially believing that she was speaking French.

Around an hour later, when the group was transferred to the Ajo station, a nurse practitioner conducting a routine booking exam for apprehended migrants noted the woman, who complained of abdominal pains and cramps, was about 8 months pregnant. The woman was without care for at least three months, the statement noted.

About two hours later, the woman arrived by ambulance at Abrazo Hospital in Goodyear, more than 100 miles away, where the woman underwent an emergency cesarean section after doctors found a defect in the fetus' heartbeat.

Upon the birth of the child, the newborn's heartbeat was reportedly low and continued to decrease, which led medical staff to attempt to stabilize and later resuscitate the child for about one hour. At approximately 2:45 a.m. on Feb. 26, the newborn was pronounced dead, according to the news release.

A spokesperson for the office of Customs and Border Protection declined to answer questions regarding the health and status of the child's mother.

The Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office conducted an autopsy with the results still pending, according to the news release.

The news release noted that an inspector with the Federal Protective Service remained with the woman throughout her treatment in the Phoenix metro area.

CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility was conducting an investigation into the death.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Mother loses newborn after apprehension near Lukeville crossing
Tropical storm warning signs are up along U.S. 74/76 as Tropical Storm Debby continues to move up the southeastern coast Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024.

President Joe Biden authorized emergency funds be used in North Carolina as Tropical Storm Debby makes its way up the coast. The announcement allows for federal aid to the state in numerous counties, according to a White House press release.

The storm has already brought rain and flooding to the coastline of North Carolina, and it's expected to bring possible high winds as well. Much of Central and Eastern North Carolina are under a flood watch.

The announcement from Biden allows the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to aid in disaster relief with the purpose of "alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe."

More than 30 counties, including New Hanover, Brunswick, Cumberland and Pender, will be eligible for 75% federal funding assistance, according to the release. For a full list of counties, read the entire announcement on the White House website.

The national response comes after Gov. Roy Cooper issued a state of emergency order on Monday.

More: NC governor issues state of emergency order ahead of Tropical Storm Debby's arrival

This weather has the potential to bring intense rain and flooding to North Carolina and we are preparing for it, Cooper said in a news release. As the weather becomes more severe, I urge everyone to take precautions and stay safe.

The storm has also canceled plans for presidential campaigns. Kamala Harris had a visit planned to the Research Triangle on Thursday and JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, was set to talk to the press the same day in Raleigh and Oakboro. Both Harris and Vance postponed the events due to the tropical storm.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Biden authorizes federal aid to North Carolina for Tropical Storm Debby
Waco, Tx (FOX 44)  A Catholic priest who formerly served in Central Texas and who is now charged with sexual assault has been brought back to Waco to face charges after being arrested in Florida. His bond has been set at $2.5 million.

Anthony Odiong was arrested in July in Florida, originally on a charge of possession of child pornography. He had been the focus of an investigation into a sexual assault case involving an offense reported to have occurred in Waco in 2012. The Waco Police Department is looking for other sexual assault survivors who may have been similarly victimized, with additional charges reportedly pending.

The initial investigation led to the arrest of Odiong in Ave Maria, Florida. He was picked up by the Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. He had been held in the Collier County Jail while awaiting extradition.

Multiple women have come forward to tell about similar experiences as the victim who reported the initial allegation. Experiences ranged from sexual assault and indecent assault, more commonly recognized as groping, and financial abuse, with some victims experiencing various forms of manipulation.

ORIGINAL STORY: Police seek victims in serial sex assault investigation

Investigators say they believe there may be others, and wish to speak with anyone who have

had similar encounters with Anthony Odiong either in McLennan County or in other

areas of the country.

Anthony Odiong served as a Catholic priest at St. Peters Catholic Student Center in Waco, Texas, as well as St. Marys of the Assumption in West, Texas, from 2007 to 2012. Investigators say they also know that Anthony Odiong served in Luling, Louisiana from around 2015 to 2023.

Investigators say they are committed to the pursuit of justice in the case, and say victims can come forward without the risk of being publicly identified. Anyone with information or who may have been a victim may speak with Detective Bradley DeLange, who will explain how confidentiality will be maintained. Detective DeLange may be reached at 254-750-7609.

Investigators emphasize that respect for a victims experience is their highest priority and no one will be required to go to court if they prefer not to, nor will victims names be made public. Investigators want to hear from victims where ever in the country they might be, and want them to be assured that they are not alone and will not have to live with the experience of the trauma alone. A Waco Police statement said they were ready to assist survivors no matter where they may be.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The battle to represent Washingtons 3rd Congressional District  which includes Clark County  became clear as early results in the state primary came in.

Voters in Washingtons 3rd Congressional District cast their ballots for incumbent freshman Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez or her two Republican opponents, Joe Kent and Leslie Lewallen.

With 56% of the vote counted, Perez took a solid lead, gaining 46.91% of the vote to Kents 38.35%. Lewallen is a distant third with 12.44%.

The Associated Press called the race for Perez and Kent, who will now face off in November.

This congressional district leans Republican. This race  along with a few dozen other congressional races around the country  could decide the balance of power in the House of Representatives. At this time, Republicans have a 6-seat majority.

Gluesenkamp Perezs seat needs to be held by the Democrats, and they need to win a few more competitive seats with Democrats to be able to flip the House, said WSU Vancouver Political Science Professor Mark Stephan. That is on the mind of the national party, and that is in the back of the mind for Gluesenkamp Perez as well.

All ballots should be in and counted by Friday.

Statements from Perez and Kent

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez statement:

Tonights results are in, and weve won our top-two primary election by a wide margin. Thank you, Southwest Washington.

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) on Eye on Northwest Politics, Jul. 19, 2024. (KOIN)

My opponent in the general election this fall will be far-right extremist Joe Kent, the same strange, angry, dangerous bonafide white nationalist I defeated last time. Joe Kent is still too extreme for Southwest Washington, and Im once again the only thing standing between Joe Kent and a seat in Congress.

Joe Kent wants a national ban on abortion with no exceptions. Hes said so on tape, multiple times, both before and after Roe v. Wade was struck down. He is outright lying if he tells you otherwise, and he is a threat to the freedom of women and girls.

Joe Kent also told a group of white nationalists he wants to ban all immigration into our country for 20 years to secure a white racial majority, while opposing bipartisan legislation to secure the Southern Border and combat fentanyl. Again, he is on tape saying so.

I wish Joe Kents extreme views stopped there, but they do not. Joe Kent is also on the record seeking to ban safe and secure vote-by-mail, thinks the 2020 election was stolen, believes the violent mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6th reeks of an intelligence operation covertly orchestrated by the American intelligence community, and refers to the convicted felons who were part of the violent mob that day as political prisoners who ought to be granted pardons.

Joe Kent also wants to arrest Dr. Anthony Fauci and put him on trial for murder. The list of delusional conspiracy theories Joe Kent has expressed an openness to believing grows by the month, especially when the conspiracy theory portrays the United States as the bad guys and aligns with Russian or Chinese state propaganda narratives.

Southwest Washington rejected the divisive, extreme politics of Joe Kent two years ago. We rejected them again tonight, we will reject them in November, and we will stop Joe Kent from using our seat in Congress to promote his online attention-seeking behavior and his angry, hateful, dangerous worldview.

Its the honor of a lifetime to represent my community in Congress. Im ranked as the most bipartisan Member of Congress from our state, and thats because I work hard to listen and serve everyone who calls Southwest Washington home, no matter how they vote come election time. Im an independent voice for rural, working class, and timber communities, because I refuse to accept corporate PAC money and dont listen to special interests who have too much power in politics.

In Congress I fight for family farmers, expanding career and technical education in the trades, and the right to repair the stuff we own. Im focused on curtailing the cost of living increases that are squeezing family budgets, securing the Southern Border, stopping the flow of fentanyl, supporting law enforcement and our veterans, and bringing home our federal tax dollars to replace the 107-year-old I-5 bridge, money other candidates want Southwest Washington to pay in tolls. Every vote I take and every bill I sponsor is guided by whats best for Southwest Washington. No political party has a monopoly on good ideas, and no Member of Congress should put party politics before the people they represent.

I co-own an auto repair and machine shop with my husband Dean, and weve never asked or cared about the politics of the customers we serve. I promised to take the same approach to my service in Congress, and Ive kept my promise. Id be honored to continue representing Southwest Washington and promise to continue putting the place I live ahead of anyones extreme politics.

Whether youre progressive or conservative, moderate or independent, Republican or Democrat, or dont feel like any label fits you well, I want to earn your vote. This election is about Southwest Washington coming together to stop Joe Kent and his angry, dangerous, divisive, extreme politics. Tonight was the first step, and in November we will finish the job.

Joe Kent statement

Im filled with gratitude for our supporters, our volunteers, our local and state party leaders, and the voters of Southwest Washington for giving me the opportunity to advance to the General Election and the chance to fight for our common-sense values in the US Congress. Id also thank my Republican opponent, Leslie Lewallen, for her spirited campaign.

Joe Kent on Eye on Northwest Politics, Aug. 2, 2024 (KOIN)

This race could not be more different today than it was two years ago when we emerged from the primary not just broke but in debt. We had suffered over $13 million in attack ads during a brutal intra-party battle from which we advanced with the support of just a third of Republican voters.

But standing here tonight, our finances are strong and supporters are eager to give more. We avoided any bloodshed in our primary and have the support of the state party and every county party. Weve already received important endorsements from the GOP House Leadership, and staff from the National Republican Committee are already on the ground here, embedding with our campaign.

And most importantly, weve emerged from the primary with the support of the overwhelming majority of Republican voters. We are unified and ready to come together to flip this seat.

But this race is also different for Congresswoman Perez. While she was able to disguise herself as Republican lite last time, now she has an unambiguous voting record of consistently siding with the Biden-Harris administration and against the people of our district.

She voted for the budgets that have caused record inflation. She blocked legislation to restore President Trumps border security policies, allowing fentanyl to continue poisoning our community. She undermined blue-collar jobs by backing the Biden-Harris plan to ship critical infrastructure manufacturing to China. She broke her own promise to support the Second Amendment and supported new gun control regulations. She betrayed our veterans by voting to defund the VA. She voted to give biological men the right to invade girls bathrooms and locker rooms, participate in girls sports, and even take away womens athletic scholarships.

Her solutions to our local problems are just as bad: she wants to add tolls to I-5 that unfairly target Washington residents and create a rail system that will deliver Portlands drug and crime problems directly to our doorsteps  all so we can replace a highly congested three lane bridge with another three lane bridge. She has opposed giving more control of our natural resources to local authorities and sided with Biden-Harris administration bureaucrats who think they know best for our forests and rivers.

Perez will try again to fool the voters and hide behind name calling and photo ops, but the mask is off: shes a radical who fits right in with the rest of the Democrat ticket: Kamala Harris and Tim Walz.

Over the next ninety days, my campaign is going into overdrive to reach independents and disaffected Democrats to win them over to our cause. Congresswoman Perez has failed to stand up for the people of our district, but I will.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
(Karen Ducey/Getty Images)

Washingtons primary election for dozens of state, local and congressional races was Tuesday, Aug. 6. The top two vote-getters for each office, regardless of party, will move on to the general election in November.

Because the state votes by mail and via ballot drop boxes, vote counting will continue in the days after primary election day and the early results in some races could shift. You can follow along here for updates.

You can find our coverage of Tuesday nights results here:



 Ferguson and Reichert move toward showdown in Washington governors race

 Heres whos leading in Washingtons U.S. House races

 Serrano, Brown poised to advance in Washington attorney general race

 Reykdal, Olson ahead in race to lead WAs public schools

 Republicans hold top two spots in WA lands commissioner race. Will it last?

Key Events

1 month ago

Franz concedes in 6th Congressional District

1 month ago

Conroy to square off with Baumgartner in eastern Washington congressional district

1 month ago

State Supreme Court field narrows

1 month ago

An 89-day sprint lies ahead in the governors race

1 month ago

State senators advance in insurance commissioner race

1 month ago

Grudge match in the 3rd

1 month ago

Easy going for Democrats running for reelection to statewide offices

1 month ago

Schrier faces closer race than other House Democrats

1 month ago

Congressional incumbents cruise toward November

1 month ago

A really good day

1 month ago

GOP packs the pavilion

1 month ago

Good vibes at Fergusons bash

1 month ago

Time is up

1 month ago

Last-minute voters

1 month ago

A video thank you

1 month ago

Fergusons day-two plans

1 month ago

MGP a no-show in virtual roll call for Harris

1 month ago

What were watching

1 month ago

Party time

1 month ago

Franz concedes in 6th Congressional District

Hilary Franz, the states lands commissioner, who late last year abandoned a nascent bid to be the next governor to instead run for a U.S. House seat in western Washingtons 6th Congressional District conceded in that race on Wednesday.

A pair of state senators  Democrat Emily Randall and Republican Drew MacEwen  are poised to face off for the seat, which has been held by Democratic U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer since 2013. Kilmer said in November he would not seek reelection and swiftly endorsed Franz.

Franz, a Democrat, on Wednesday thanked her supporters and blamed her loss on outside money that flooded into the race in support of Randall. Even so, she said shed called Randall to congratulate her on her historic primary win.

It is time for all of us to work harder than ever so we can flip the House, defeat Donald Trump and defend our democracy, Franz added.

Last updated: 7:43 pm

1 month ago

Conroy to square off with Baumgartner in eastern Washington congressional district

Democrat Carmela Conroy, a U.S. foreign service officer for almost 25 years and before that Spokanes deputy prosecuting attorney, will face Republican Michael Baumgartner in the race to replace U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers in eastern Washingtons 5th Congressional District.

The Associated Press called the primary race in Conroys favor at 5:37 p.m. on Wednesday. AP said on Tuesday night that Baumgartner would advance to the general election. Eleven candidates ran to replace McMorris Rodgers, a Republican who said earlier this year she wouldnt seek reelection.

Baumgartner, who emerged as the frontrunner, is in his second term as Spokanes treasurer. Hes a former Washington state senator and past U.S. State Department officer who, in that role, spent time in Iraq. Hed claimed 28.3% of the vote as of 6 p.m. Wednesday. Conroy had 19.6%.

Last updated: 8:24 pm

1 month ago

State Supreme Court field narrows

Theres an open state Supreme Court justice seat this year, and four candidates competed for it in the primary.

Washington State Supreme Court justices serve six-year terms and face mandatory retirement at age 75. This years open seat is left by Justice Susan Owens who will retire at the end of the year.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Sal Mungia and Dave Larson are likely moving forward to compete in November. Mungia had received 42.3% of the votes and Larson 36.9%.

Mungia is a trial and appellate court lawyer who has experience as a former law clerk for the state Supreme Court and as the former president of the state Bar Association. He also has the endorsement of eight of the nine current justices as well as Gov. Jay Inslee, according to his voter guide statement.

Larson is a judge for the Federal Way Municipal Court, where hes served for 16 years. He is the only judge running for the seat. He also spent 23 years as a trial attorney. During his time as a trial lawyer, Larson was active in the state and local bar associations.

Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven Gonzalez and Justice Sheryl Gordon McCloud are also up for reelection but are running unopposed.

Last updated: 4:15 pm

1 month ago

An 89-day sprint lies ahead in the governors race

Finishing atop the 28-person race for governor didnt surprise Bob Ferguson. The margin between him and second-place finisher Dave Reichert did.

Ferguson, the Democratic attorney general, collected 45.5% of the statewide vote in Tuesdays first round of ballot counting. Reichert, the Republican former congressman, trailed with 27.9% In King County, which has the biggest bounty of votes, Ferguson hauled in 60.8% to Reicherts 20.6%.

I did not have on my bingo card the result we saw last night, he told reporters Wednesday morning. It exceeded our most optimistic projections. A couple hours later, in a call with supporters, he described the result as great then added, That might be an understatement.

Democratic state Sen. Mark Mullet, Fergusons chief intraparty challenger, was fourth with 5.8%. Ferguson figures most of those who voted for Mullet will come his way, which positions him well for the Nov. 5 election.

Mullet didnt dispute the calculations but said hes not endorsing Ferguson. At least not yet, as he wants to see if the Democratic Party adopts a less contentious relationship with business. And he is definitely not backing Reichert, a social conservative who is not pro-choice or pro-marriage equality.

The race is over, Mullet said. I dont think the state of Washington will elect a socially conservative governor.

Ferguson, an accomplished chess player, diagrammed for supporters some of the key campaign moves behind his election night success. In King County, for example, he pointed to a heavy dose of advertising targeting Reicherts votes in Congress to ban abortions. Those hurt him. He doesnt have a response to that, he said.

And, Ferguson noted, he bought a blitz of commercials during Olympics coverage. I really believe that made a difference, he said. Weve been able to define Reichert before he can define himself.

Ferguson said he hasnt been the target of attack ads but they will come because unfortunately attack ads work.

Last updated: 3:56 pm

1 month ago

State senators advance in insurance commissioner race

The race for insurance commissioner is the first without an incumbent in more than 20 years. Commissioner Mike Kreidler took office in 2001 and isnt running for reelection.

Despite polls indicating that Democrats could get locked out of the general election, their top candidate, state Sen. Patty Kuderer, is performing well. Shed claimed about 44.8% of votes, as of Wednesday afternoon. In second place was Republican state Sen. Phil Fortunato who garnered almost 28%.

Kuderer, of Bellevue, has been in the Legislature since 2015, first as state representative and then as a state senator. Fortunato, of Auburn, has served in the state Senate since 2017 and as a state representative from 1999 to 2001.

Of the remaining six candidates, Democrats held a combined 12.3% of the vote, Republican Justin Murta had 10.4% and nonpartisan candidates had a combined 4.4%. That math appears to work in Kuderers favor but lots could happen between now and November.

Last updated: 3:37 pm

1 month ago

Grudge match in the 3rd

The rematch between Democratic U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Republican Joe Kent is going to be nasty. Real nasty.

Forty-two minutes after polls closed Tuesday night, Gluesenkamp Perez issued a statement thanking voters in the 3rd Congressional District in southwest Washington.

Then she lit into Kent, who she defeated by 2,629 votes in 2022, flipping a seat Republicans had held for more than a decade.

She called him the same strange, angry, dangerous bonafide white nationalist I defeated last time. Joe Kent is still too extreme for Southwest Washington, and Im once again the only thing standing between Joe Kent and a seat in Congress.

Gluesenkamp Perez fired several salvos, hitting the same issues that she targeted in their 2022 slugfest such as his past support of a national ban on abortion, his doubts about the 2020 election, and what she dubbed his delusional conspiracy theories.

Kent, in a statement released 18 minutes later, said circumstances this year are different.

The brutal 2022 primary in which he defeated Republican Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler left him in debt and the Republican Party divided. This time, he said his campaign finances are strong, the state Republican Party is behind him and the National Republican Campaign Committee has embedded staff with his team.

We are unified and ready to come together to flip this seat, he said, adding that while Gluesenkamp Perez was able to disguise herself as Republican lite last time she now has a record to run on. She will try again to fool voters and hide behind name-calling and photo ops, but the mask is off: shes a radical who fits right in with the rest of the Democrat ticket, he said.

Kent picked up the endorsement Tuesday of Leslie Lewallen, the other Republican in the primary, whod pitched herself as a more moderate and electable alternative to Kent.

I got into this race to protect and grow the Republican majority in the House of Representatives, she said in a statement. We are at a pivotal crossroads right now between strength and success and weakness and failure. There is no margin for error and we have to flip this seat.

In Tuesday nights tally, Gluesenkamp Perez garnered 46.9% of the vote followed by Kent with 38.3% and Lewallen at 12.4%.

Last updated: 3:18 pm

1 month ago

Easy going for Democrats running for reelection to statewide offices

Democrats have a lock on all of Washingtons statewide offices. For the most part, those running for reelection to those jobs didnt have much competition this primary. The few that did fared pretty well based on last nights vote count, signaling an easy road to another term.

The races for state treasurer and state auditor had only two candidates, including incumbents, so primary results are a pretty good indicator of what will happen in November.

In the race for treasurer, Democratic incumbent Mike Pellicciotti, whos running for his second term, was leading Republican Sharon Hanek by about 17 percentage points. Pellicciotti had 58.7% of votes on Tuesday night while Hanek had about 41.3%.

Democratic incumbent State Auditor Pat McCarthy, whos held the position since 2017, was leading her Republican challenger, Matt Hawkins, on Tuesday. McCarthy had 59.2% of the vote while Hawkins had 40.8%.

Races for secretary of state and lieutenant governor had multiple challengers, but incumbents appeared to be advancing easily.

Democratic Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, whos held the position since 2021, was leading the field with 49% of votes. His challenger in November will likely be Republican Dale Whitaker who took home 36.8% of Tuesdays count. Marquez Tiggs, a Democrat, had just under 10% of the vote and Damon Townsend, of the No Labels Party, had 4.6%.

Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, a Democrat running for his second term, was in a similar position. He took home 48.7% of the votes tallied Tuesday while the second-place finisher, Republican Dan Matthews, won 22.5%. Republican Bob Hagglund came in third with 16.7% of the vote and Democrat David Griffin racked up 9.2%.

Last updated: 2:34 pm

1 month ago

Schrier faces closer race than other House Democrats

In the 8th Congressional District, which covers Pierce, King, Snohomish, Kittitas and Chelan counties, Democratic incumbent Kim Schrier could face a closer race in November than some of her colleagues in the states congressional delegation. But she still led her opponents by a healthy margin on Tuesday.

Schrier received 51.5% of votes on Tuesday with Republican Carmen Goers in second place with 44.3%. Schrier was first elected in 2018. Goers is a commercial banker and community volunteer.

Two other Democratic candidates, Imraan Siddiqi and Keith Arnold, received 2.8% and 1.3%, respectively.

Siddiqi, executive director of the Washington chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, cited the war in Gaza as his main motivation for running against Schrier. He pledged to push for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the war if elected and criticized Schrier for her voting record related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Last updated: 2:23 pm

1 month ago

Congressional incumbents cruise toward November

Most of Washingtons congressional incumbents are on a glide path through the primary.

Perhaps the best-performing congressperson on Tuesday was U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, who represents Washingtons 7th Congressional District, which covers most of Seattle, Shoreline and Vashon Island. She took home 78.4% of votes, as of Tuesday. In a distant second place was Republican Dan Alexander with 8.8% of votes.

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell sailed through to the general election in her reelection bid, with 57.8% of the vote. Her November challenger will be Raul Garcia, a Yakima Republican and doctor. Garcia received 21.2% of the vote, as of Tuesday night. Cantwell first won election to her Senate seat in 2000 and has held the office since. She chairs the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committees. Garcia in late July walked from Yakima to Seattle to draw attention to the threat of illicit fentanyl.

U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene, a Democrat who has held the 1st Congressional District seat since 2012, received 63.9% of the initial votes. DelBene chairs the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the official campaign arm of House Democrats. The second-place candidate in the race, as of Tuesday, was Republican Orion Webster, who had 9.8% of the vote but Republican Jeb Brewer was close behind with 9.4%. The 1st stretches north from Bellevue to around Marysville and Arlington.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, who is in his 12th term representing the 2nd Congressional District was also leading with wide margins. The district covers northwest Washington, including Bellingham, Anacortes, Mount Vernon and Edmonds. Larsen had about 50.4% of the vote as of Tuesday night. The second-place candidate was Cody Hart, a MAGA Republican, with 19.4% of the vote.

U.S. Rep. Adam Smith, the Democrat representing the 9th Congressional District, which extends between Seattle and Tacoma, had 55.6% of initial votes. In second place was Republican Paul Martin with 18.9% followed by Democrat Melissa Chaudhry with 17.7%. Smith was among the congressional Democrats who publicly called on President Joe Biden to step aside in his presidential reelection bid. He has served in the U.S. House since 1997.

In the 10th district, U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland scored 54.3% of votes on Tuesday. The second-place vote-getter was Republican Don Hewett with 27.8% of the vote. Strickland is in her second term in the U.S. House following two terms as mayor of Tacoma.

Last updated: 1:52 pm

1 month ago

A really good day

State Democratic Party Chair Shasti Conrad said she was feeling hopeful following the first round of results.

In past elections, Democrats tend to vote late, Conrad said, so seeing such a large lead in many races on election night was a good sign.

Its been a really good day, she said.

But the party could still face some troubles in one race: the commissioner of public lands. Results were close on Tuesday with two Republicans leading, potentially shutting out Democrats from that seat altogether.

Conrad said she was still hopeful that one Democrat would make it through and expected a wave of progressive votes to come in later this week.

Still, she blamed Republicans for being so fractured that they split the vote among their two candidates in the race. But there are also three Democrats in the contest.

We just want to make sure every vote gets counted, she said.

1 month ago

GOP packs the pavilion

Republican gubernatorial candidate Dave Reichert received a standing ovation as he spoke briefly to the GOP gathering in Puyallup before the first ballot counts were posted.

We are going to get some numbers, he said while cautioning that they may not be as good as everyone is hoping to see. Reichert said hell return when those results are shown on the big screen and talk about what will happen beginning tomorrow.

We are going to be your voice. We are your conduit to voicing your thoughts and beliefs on how to make this a better state, he said.

Raul Garcia, who is challenging incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, drew cheers in his speech.

And Brian Heywood also got a warm reception as he thanked those in the room who helped gather signatures on petitions supporting seven Republican-backed initiatives. State lawmakers adopted three but there will be four more atop ballots in November.

Many attendees lined up to feast on pork, brisket, coleslaw and Texas toast.

In between handing out plates, Sharon Nelson of Lakewood, shared that she felt anxious because the state and country are going in the wrong direction in her view. She said she appreciated that many in the room had volunteered to help Republican candidates.

I hope the outcome is in our favor, said Nelson, a member of the Pierce County Republican Party and South Puget Sound Republican Women, as she handed out plates to the hungry crowd.

Last updated: 8:23 pm

1 month ago

Good vibes at Fergusons bash

Spirits were high at Democrat Bob Fergusons results party.

Supporters packed into a brewery in Ballard decorated with blue and white balloons, photos of Fergusons pets, Bob Ferguson campaign T-Shirts and flyers advertising A bold new direction for Washington state.

As they waited for results, his supporters enjoyed some brews and tunes like Miley Cyrus Party in the U.S.A. and Shania Twains Man! I Feel Like a Woman!

Last updated: 8:23 pm

1 month ago

Time is up

Time is up for voters in Washington to cast ballots in todays primary. The states 4.9 million registered voters had until 8 p.m. today to get ballots postmarked or deposited in a designated drop box.

As of Tuesday evening, about 1.3 million ballots had been returned. You can see the numbers received in each county on the secretary of states website. Jefferson County led the way with 43.9% of its ballots cast.

There are contests for a U.S. Senate seat and all nine statewide executive offices  including governor, attorney general, public lands commissioner and superintendent of public instruction. All 10 of Washingtons U.S. House seats are up for election. Retirements of Democratic Congressman Derek Kilmer and Republican Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers means voters will be filling two vacancies.

In Washington, the top two vote-getters for each office, regardless of party, will move on to the general election in November.

You can follow along here for updates this evening, including coverage of initial results as officials post ballot counts. We have two reporters in the field. Laurel Demkovich will be on the scene at a party in Seattle held by Attorney General Bob Ferguson, whos running for governor. And Jerry Cornfield will be at a Republican gathering in Puyallup.

A reminder that because of the way Washington votes, it could be several days before its clear who will advance out of the primary in some races.

Last updated: 1:47 pm

1 month ago

Last-minute voters

A couple hours before the 8 p.m. deadline, voters were racing to get their ballots in on time at drop boxes in Ballard.

Two King County drop boxes outside the Ballard branch of the Seattle Public Library are among the most popular in the city. The auditors office sends election workers to stand next to the boxes throughout Election Day. They wear bright yellow vests labeled Vote!, help answer questions, and prepare to collect ballots once the drop boxes close at 8 p.m.

As of Tuesday evening, King Countys turnout was around 27%, roughly in line with the state average.

Last updated: 8:01 pm

1 month ago

A video thank you

As Republican Pete Serrano traveled by car to Puyallup Tuesday afternoon, he posted a video on X, formerly Twitter, thanking those who gave their time, money and prayers in support of his bid for attorney general.

Everything you have done has made a difference in this election, he says. I will stand for you. I will stand with you and I will make sure Washington is a safer place. I look forward to seeing the results tonight.

Serrano is one of three candidates in the contest. Because the other two  Manka Dhingra and Nick Brown  are Democrats, Serrano is expected to make it through the primary.

For those wondering, Serrano was not driving while recording the video.

Last updated: 7:01 pm

1 month ago

Fergusons day-two plans

Gubernatorial hopeful Bob Ferguson  the likely leading Democratic candidate Tuesday  is already making his post-primary plans.

The attorney general has scheduled two Zoom calls on Wednesday where he will no doubt talk about his road to November, if he makes it through tonight.

At 10 a.m., hell join other Democratic lawmakers and progressive advocates to talk about a host of issues  reproductive rights, housing, education, climate change and gun violence are all on the agenda.

Two hours later, he has another call scheduled. This time, hes alone talking to donors, and hell be analyzing Tuesdays results and sharing what they mean for his campaign moving forward.

Last updated: 6:33 pm

1 month ago

MGP a no-show in virtual roll call for Harris

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking a second term in southwest Washingtons 3rd Congressional District.

She narrowly beat Republican Joe Kent in 2022, winning a seat that had been held by a Republican for more than a decade. Theres a good chance theyre headed for a rematch.

At times, Gluesenkamp Perez has opted to keep some distance between herself and fellow Democrats. That was the case again this week as the Democratic National Committee leadership announced the delegates whod pledged support during a virtual roll call for Vice President Kamala Harris to be the partys presidential nominee.

Harris garnered 4,567 votes of pledged and automatic delegates in a virtual roll call for the nomination. That worked out to 99% of votes cast.

That other 1% were folks who either voted present or did not vote at all.

Put Democratic Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez in that latter category.

Washington had 111 delegate votes. Of those, 101 voted for Harris, nine voted present and one person did not vote. It was Gluesenkamp Perez, according to a state Democratic Party official.

We reached out to her campaign for an explanation and did not immediately hear back.

When Harris emerged as the partys presumptive nominee a couple weeks ago, we asked Gluesenkamp Perezs camp if she planned to endorse the vice president.

The Congresswoman never endorsed (President Joe) Biden and has not endorsed Harris either. Shes focused on her own race here in Southwest Washington, her press folks told us.

Last updated: 6:02 pm

1 month ago

What were watching

In a few hours, results will start rolling in, and well be on the lookout for a few key storylines.

In the race to represent Washingtons 4th Congressional District, U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouses future could be on the line. Newhouse, whos represented the district since 2015, has drawn criticism from within his own party since he voted to impeach former president Donald Trump.

Democrats could get shut out of the race for public lands commissioner, according to a new poll. Although with so many voters still undecided in that race, anything is possible.

Chris Reykdal, the incumbent for superintendent of public instruction, could be in trouble this election. Reykdal is seeking his third term but has been facing doubters since last August.

The Standard has broken down those races and more things to watch this primary.

Last updated: 6:00 pm

1 month ago

Party time

Election night parties are still a thing as candidates hang out with family, friends and supporters to await the arrival of results on their laptops, phones or maybe their watch. Weve gotten a heads up on a few.

Several Republicans expecting to advance to the general election will be at a bash in Puyallup hosted by the Pierce County Republican Party.

Gubernatorial candidate Dave Reichert tops the attendee list. Pete Serrano, who is running for attorney general, and Raul Garcia, who is vying for U.S. Senate, will join him as will Kelly Chambers, the GOP hopeful for Pierce County executive.

Democratic candidates are mostly doing their own things.

Democratic Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal will be at Jellyfish Brewing Co. in Seattle with supporters of her reelection bid. Attorney General Bob Ferguson, who is running for governor, will be at a Ballard brewery.

Nick Brown, one of two Democrats seeking the AGs job, will be holding court in the lobby bar of the Westin Hotel in Seattle. State Sen. Manka Dhingra, the other Democrat in that race, will be at the Redmond Senior and Community Center along with her Senate colleague, Patty Kuderer, a candidate for state insurance commissioner.

And Emily Randall, the Democratic state senator running for an open congressional seat, plans to be in her Bremerton campaign headquarters.

Last updated: 5:03 pm
(Bloomberg) -- US Representative Cori Bush said that she will go after the American Israel Public Affairs Committee after she lost a bitter and expensive primary battle driven by Democratic divisions over the war in Gaza.

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AIPAC, Im coming to tear your kingdom down, the Missouri Democrat said in a fiery speech following her defeat to local prosecutor Wesley Bell.

The loss is the second for a member of the squad  an informal group of progressives in the US House. Just weeks earlier, Representative Jamaal Bowman, another Israel critic, lost a primary in the New York suburbs to George Latimer, who was also backed by AIPAC.

The organization spent heavily on attack ads, but both campaigns also focused on how the squad members voted against President Joe Bidens infrastructure bill and attacked the candidates for being ineffective representatives.

Bush, who was reluctant to label Hamas a terrorist group, was also being investigated by the Justice Department over allegations she misused government funds. She has said shes cooperating with the probe.

With 94% of the votes counted, Bell, the St. Louis County prosecuting attorney, had 51% support compared with about 46% for Bush, AP reported.

Bell, who benefited from $9.5 million in ad spending from pro-Israel groups, according to AdImpact, had implored voters to stand with Israel, drawing a sharp contrast with the two-term Democrat who has accused Israel of committing war crimes in its response to the Oct. 7 attack on Israeli civilians by Hamas. The US and European Union deem Hamas a terrorist organization.

The Bush and Bowman losses are a blow to US opponents of Israels Gaza invasion and diminish the congressional influence of the squad, a small group that has often clashed with more moderate Democrats.

The St. Louis-area district is a Democratic stronghold and the majority of residents are non-White and nearly half are Black. The district includes Ferguson, where 18-year-old Michael Brown was killed by a White police officer in 2014, sparking protests. Bush has said she was maced and beaten by police during those protests.

Nearly 18% of residents in the district live below the poverty line, about 1.4 times the rate statewide, making economic issues among the areas top concerns.

Read: Harris, Walz Launch Swing-State Blitz to Gain Edge Over Trump

Bush, a registered nurse who once was homeless, toppled 10-term incumbent Lacy Clay in the Democratic primary in 2020. In 2022, she won the primary by nearly 43 percentage points. But the influx of outside cash from pro-Israel groups unexpectedly made it a competitive race.

Because I called for a cease-fire, AIPAC is upset about that, Bush said in an interview before the primary. Its against what they want, and they are willing to put their money behind it.

Bell didnt respond to Bloombergs requests for an interview.

Bell raised $4.8 million for his campaign, including backing from Wall Street donors. Among those who gave his campaign the maximum of $3,300 for the primary are Willoughby Capital Management founder Daniel Och, Sessa Capitals John Petry, and Daniel Loeb of Third Point LLC.

Cori Bush is one of the most bellicose, most vituperative anti-Israel voices in the United States Congress, and we think she doesnt belong there, said Mark Mellman, DMFI PAC Chairman, one of the pro-Israel organizations backing Bell.

Bush raised $2.9 million. She received contributions from Karla Jurvetson, a major Democratic donor, and Andrew Dudum, co-founder of telemedicine company Hims and Hers Health Inc.

Justice Democrats, a political action committee that supports progressive candidates, spent $2.4 million on Bushs behalf.

Divided Democrats

Progressives argued that the massive amounts raised by Israel supporters are intrusive in local races.

This would not be a race without AIPAC lifting up this man, said Usamah Andrabi, the communications director of Justice Democrats, a PAC that supports Bush and other squad members.

The Houses No. 2 Democrat, Katherine Clark, visited Bushs district and co-hosted a reproductive health round-table with local elected officials and community organizations. Other members who campaigned with Bush include Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Delia Ramirez.

However, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who campaigned for fellow New Yorker Bowman, and other squad members didnt stump for Bush in the run up to the primary. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has not provided financial support to either of the candidates.

(Recasts and updates with Bushs comments.)

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Liberal Democrats are all cheers after Kamala Harris tapped Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) as her running mate Tuesday, hailing the decision as a victory for progressive policy ideals that will invigorate the partys base heading into Novembers elections.

Walz had built a moderate record during his 12 years representing a rural district in the U.S. House, championing a number of liberal social causes but also bucking his party on other prominent policy goals, including those related to gun reform and environmental protection.

Yet he has shifted to the left in more recent years, promoting gun restrictions and clean energy advances while winning praise from civil rights leaders for his handling of the 2020 murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a white police officer in Minneapolis.

That transformation has not gone unnoticed. And in the wake of Walzs ascension to vice presidential candidate, a long and growing list of progressive voices  from gun reformers and climate activists to leading labor unions and outspoken members of the liberal squad  wasted no time celebrating the pick as a win for the left.

The AFL-CIO lionized Walz as a principled fighter and labor champion. The Rev. Al Sharpton praised him as a trusted partner. And Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) said Harris made an excellent decision in picking Walz.

Together, they will govern effectively, inclusively, and boldly for the American people, she wrote on the social platform X.

Walz was on a shortlist of potential VP picks that also featured Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D), who had come under fire from some liberals for his track record on issues as diverse as labor organizing, law enforcement and the Israel-Hamas War. With the selection of Walz, those liberals say Democrats have avoided the messy infighting that would have divided the party just as it needed to unite around the goal of defeating former President Trump.

[What] we saw from the beginning of this process is that Walz and Shapiro looked like equally good candidates. But as time wore on, Walz kept on piling up victories  whether its in speeches or on cable news or on social media  while at the same time, Shapiro kept on piling up opposition, Amar Shergill, a leader of the California Democratic Party Progressive Caucus, told The Hill.

[Walz] creates positivity wherever he goes, and thats gold for a presidential ticket.

Walz was not always such a darling of the left.

First elected to Congress in 2006, he carved his own lane on Capitol Hill by breaking with fellow Democrats on certain issues that were toxic in his right-leaning, agriculture-heavy district. That included his opposition to certain environmental protections promoted by the Obama administration and a resistance to tougher restrictions on guns. As recently as 2012, the National Rifle Association (NRA) had endorsed his candidacy.

Walzs move to Minnesotas governors mansion in 2019 broadened his constituent base in the blue-leaning North Star State and altered his approach to some of those same policies. Since taking the office, hes championed a shift to renewable energy, pushed for greater accountability in law enforcement and enacted several bills putting new restrictions on firearms.

After his promotion to the Democratic ticket was announced Tuesday, the NRA quickly issued a statement denouncing him as a political chameleon.

Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.), who served with Walz on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said Walzs shift to the left was a natural reflection of the broader public he now serves as governor.

He had to be one kind of elected official when he was a member who represented a really tough district  a plus-1 Republican district, which hasnt been won by a Democratic since he left. And there was a difference between that and governing the whole state of Minnesota in a more progressive way, Takano said Tuesday, pointing also to Walzs adoption of family-friendly programs such as child tax credits and child care benefits.

His attention is on the right things, and thats what I think has progressives all excited about him.

Harriss decision came after weeks of vetting potential candidates, including Shapiro and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly (D), who were among the very last finalists. At least part of the liberals exuberant response reflects not only their support for Walzs policy agenda, but also their relief that the others didnt make the cut.

Shapiro, in particular, had been scrutinized by progressives in recent weeks for controversial statements hed made in the past related to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Shapiros allies denounced those attacks, saying he was being treated unfairly because he was the only Jewish figure on Harriss shortlist. But the progressive criticisms were more broad than that, to include Sen. John Fettermans (D-Pa.) concerns about Shapiros clemency policies and union anger over his support for school voucher programs.

With the Walz pick, many liberals said they felt heard.

[It] shows that she is serious about keeping the big tent together on this, said Angelo Greco, a progressive Democratic strategist who worked on Sen. Bernie Sanderss (I-Vt.) presidential campaign.

Some progressives are surprised  and its an olive branch, he said. I want to be a skeptic, but Im finding it hard.

Another Democratic strategist who has worked with progressive and moderate candidates said Harris made the right calculation, given the historic nature of her campaign.

Old or boring white men for transcendental candidates is a trend. Obama, Clinton, and Harris, said the strategist.

Its not an issue. Just reality.

Takano had a different assessment, saying Walzs unique ability to appeal to voters of all stripes  and to communicate his message effectively  was more important than securing any one battleground state.

I think Vice President Harris is sending a big signal that her campaign for the presidency is not just about one swing state  that its about appealing to a much broader audience in the country. And that she senses the broad appeal that Tim has, he said.

Republicans wasted no time bashing the newly finalized Democratic ticket Tuesday, saying Harris and Walz are both far too liberal to appeal to moderate voters.

It makes it easier for us, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) told The Hill on Tuesday. He is a far-left candidate and choice. I frankly thought that she might try to choose a moderate, but obviously she has proven once again who she is.

Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who was the Democratic leader for all of Walzs 12 years on Capitol Hill, dismissed those criticisms, citing Walzs centrist track record over that tenure.

To characterize him as left is so unreal, she told MSNBCs Morning Joe on Tuesday. Hes right down the middle. Hes a heartland of America Democrat.

Caroline Vakil and Mychael Schnell contributed.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) had yet to have her first cup of coffee on Tuesday morning when her phone began blowing up. The news that President Kamala Harris had selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate broke just before 6 a.m. local time in Seattle, Jayapals home city. Despite the early wake up calls, the influential chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus told TPM she was delighted.

I was one of the early members of Congress to endorse Tim Walz and say that I liked the governor as the pick. And so, it was just wonderful, said Jayapal, who had her own primary race on the calendar Tuesday.

I think its such a smart pick. Its a unifying pick, she continued. Its going to continue our momentum for the now Harris-Walz ticket and its going to make sure that we get a real economic agenda that speaks to people.

Other prominent members of the Democratic Partys left flank share Jayapals enthusiasm about Walz.

Faiz Shakir, the chief political adviser to Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and executive director of the advocacy group More Perfect Union, told TPM he appreciates both Walzs record and demeanor.

The policy is really important, but I think the character is just as important, Shakir explained. Youve got a very  what I would describe as a jovial, Santa Claus-like character in his nature. You see a kind of empathy and outwardness, a desire for other people around him to succeed. You just, you feel that.

Bill Neidhardt, a Democratic strategist who has worked with multiple prominent progressives, had a similar view of Walzs record in Minnesota.

His agenda is the agenda that we have been organizing around on the Hill and in campaigns, Neidhardt said.

Walzs ascension to the presidential ticket was the latest development in what has been a chaotic, at-times unprecedented race for Democrats since President Joe Biden foundered in a June debate. The President abruptly ended his campaign and endorsed Harris last month. Biden had strong support from the partys left flank since, after being elected in 2020, he gave progressives input on policy and partnered with them to enact an ambitious agenda. As Biden faced questions about his age and mounting pressure to end his re-election bid, prominent figures on the left like Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) were among some of his staunchest defenders.

Now, Biden has bowed out. But in Harris and Walz, progressives see a ticket poised to continue where he left off.

I wanted somebody who was going to be 150 percent behind the Biden-Harris agenda and what is now the Harris campaign agenda, Jayapal said of Walz. If you look at what hes done as governor, its been these bold, popular policies from paid sick leave, to free school lunches, to expanding health care access, all of these things that are part of the Biden-Harris agenda and part of the Harris campaign agenda now.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., leaves a meeting of the House Democratic Caucus about the candidacy of President Joe Biden at the Democratic National Committee on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Shakir echoed that sentiment, saying the selection of Walz should allay concerns progressives have about Harris taking the lead spot on the ticket.

Shes honed in on that economic populist message, at least in the rhetoric, Shakir said. There have been some people doubting, well, is it going to lead to the same kind of policy actions we saw from Biden? Well, the pick of Walz gives you more confidence, right?

In her first statement about Walz, Harris leaned into economic populism and praised him as a fighter for middle class families, touting his work in Minnesota to eliminate junk fees, enact paid sick leave, codify abortion rights at the state level, lower insulin prices, and fund police departments while passing reform measures, among other things.

As she expressed excitement about the Harris ticket, Jayapal pointed to the vice presidents role in enacting Bidens agenda and the campaigns populist overtones.

On Biden, I think that we progressives just had a really strong partnership with the president and a lot of loyalty to each other because of the relationships and the agenda that we fought for together, said Jayapal, adding, In the end, it got to a place where he himself realized that he needed to step out, and he endorsed Kamala, which was fantastic because I think she was a part of the Biden Harris administration, clearly, obviously.  She had already embraced that bold working class agenda. Shes continuing to embrace it now as the nominee for president.

Neidhardt, the Democratic strategist, was among a group of operatives and activists who worked to back Walz as Harris vetted multiple potential running mates. Walz was not on Harris initial shortlist, however, grassroots support for the governor  and particularly excitement around his message that former President Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans are weird  helped propel him onto the ticket.

The weird thing did kind of define an entire news cycle, Neidhardt said, describing elation among Democrats at the prospect of having, in Walz, someone who put Republicans on their heels.

Jayapal also appreciated Walzs use of the term to define Trump and the GOP.

When we talk about what were fighting for, when Governor Walz and Vice President Harris talk about what theyre fighting for, its what all Americans want, right? Expanded Social Security and Medicare, health care access, housing, universal childcare, these are things that all Americans want, Jayapal said.

The idea that those are radical is just, to use Tim Walzs word, weird. They are weird, she continued, adding, This is not normal, everyday behavior to want to ban abortion, ban IVF, ban contraception, deport immigrants. That is just all weird.

While Walzs message caught fire organically, Neidhardt also said the progressive activists, operatives, and politicians were following labors lead as they pressed for him to join Harris ticket. Unions were among Walzs key supporters during the veepstakes, with United Auto Workers leader Shawn Fain publicly naming the Minnesota governor as one of his top choices. Following Harris announcement, the AFL-CIO, which is the countrys largest federation of unions, released a statement dubbing Walz a labor champion.

Hes labors favorite pick, Neidhardt said of Walz.

A progressive Hill aide who requested anonymity to discuss the presidential ticket described Harris selection of Walz as a huge win for progressives on two levels.

I think its a huge win both because of his progressive accomplishments and the progressive organizing that went into getting him on the ticket, the aide said, adding, Elections are about energy, and theyre about networks, and theyre about vibes. Walz was clearly the vibes candidate.

Bernie Sanders speaks at a rally endorsing Jamaal Bowman at St. Marys Park in the Bronx on June 22, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Steven Ferdman/GC Images)

While Walzs appeal to progressives is clear, Jayapal also called him a unifying pick that had appeal beyond the left. Thats a view held by other progressives who cited his experience representing a red district as a Democrat in a relatively purple state. Shakir also noted the fact progressives werent the only ones who praised Harris decision.

His coalition just extends so broadly. So many of the Democratic governors just love him as well, Shakir said of Walz. Even [Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV)] put out this positive statement about working with him.

Shakir said he saw personal evidence of Walzs appeal on a recent campaign swing in Minnesota, the governors home state.

We were on the ground just this last weekend in Mankato  Senator Sanders and I were in Mankato and then in Minneapolis, Shakir said. When he talked about Walz, you could sense theres such great enthusiasm from regular people about him because its clear they have connected with him.

In the hours since Harris announced her decision, Trump and other Republicans have attempted to use Walzs progressivism against the Democratic ticket. On his Truth Social platform, Trump attacked Harris and Walz, claiming they were the most Radical Left duo in American history.

Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz walk out on stage together during a campaign event at Girard College on August 6, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

For his part, Shakir said he appreciated that Harris was unafraid to face the fire that came with a running mate who had progressive bonafides. He also suggested Walz would be uniquely suited to defend against efforts to paint him as extremely far left. While he specified that Harris campaign had been just rocking since she secured the Democratic nomination, Shakir offered one bit of counsel.

My advice to  people whove been crushing it so far is to say, let Tim Walz be Tim Walz, because, in him, youve got a unique gift and ability of someone who can connect, Shakir said.

Jayapal also predicted efforts to paint Walz and Harris as far left would fail to do damage.

People often think of progressive policies as being policies that only are popular in blue districts, but I would argue that theyre actually incredibly popular in red districts. Look at raising the minimum wage, look at paid sick leave, look at expanding social security and Medicare. These are not limited to just Democrats, Jayapal said.

Like Shakir, Jayapal believes Walzs skills will help him communicate that to everyone and not get pegged just as a progressive.

Tim Walz has the ability to just really defend those ideas as populist policies that every American deserves to have, Jayapal said. I think that thats really appealing.

Jayapal pointed to the huge fundraising numbers and influx of volunteers that have come since Harris took over the ticket to argue progressives arent the only ones excited. On Tuesday evening, the Harris campaign revealed it had raised more than $20 million in the hours after she announced Walzs selection.

The vibes are awesome, Jayapal said. Its so much fun to be able to promote a candidate who is really pushing those vibes out there in a big way and is resonating with so many people.
Heritage Foundation Prez Now Delaying the Release of His Project 2025 Book

Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts said he would delay the publication of Dawns Early Light: Taking Back Washington to Save Americathe book associated with the organizations conservative policy agenda known as Project 2025, according to a report.

Theres a time for writing, reading, and book toursand a time to put down the books and go fight like hell to take back our country, Roberts told RealClearPolitics, which first reported the delay.

Thats why Ive chosen to move my books publication and promotion to after the election.

Roberts book was originally slated to release on Sept. 24, according to publisher HarperCollins. It is unclear what the books new publication date will be.

The Heritage Foundation did not immediately return a request for comment from the Daily Beast.

In Dawns Early Light, Roberts takes on a number of conservative bogeymenand even adds in a few of his own, according to an advance copy obtained by liberal watchdog group Media Matters for America.

Project 2025 Heads New Book Rails Against IVF, Abortion and... Dog Parks?

The topics criticized include in vitro fertilization (IVF), abortion, contraceptives, childless adults, and even dog parks.

The original release was slated to feature a foreword written by Ohio senator and Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance, but it is unclear if he will remain involved in the project moving forward.

The Trump campaign has tried to distance themselves from Project 2025 in recent weeks. Campaign manager Chris LaCivita even succeeded in a pressure campaign to get the conservative think tank to fire Paul Dans, the former policy director of Project 2025, The Daily Beast first reported last month.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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A 14-year-old Milwaukee boy has been charged in adult court with five counts, including first-degree reckless homicide, accused of fleeing police after a robbery and crashing into and killing a motorcyclist in Walker's Point.

Zykevious Joshua-Alexander was charged Tuesday by the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office.

The incident took place July 27 at First and Walker streets during the Harley-Davidson anniversary celebration, in which thousands of bikers were in town.

The victim is 31-year-old Marc Jones. A GoFundMe account started by a friend for Jones' family said he was a "loving and giving soul." Media reports say Jones was in town for Harley Fest and is from the village of Oregon in Dane County. Attempts to reach his family were unsuccessful.

Marc Jones

According to a criminal complaint, Joshua-Alexander admitted in an interview that he and a friend stole a car on the south side after becoming "tired of walking" following catching a bus from a residence in the 1300 block of South 35th Street.

They then went on to commit a robbery at gunpoint near the Intermodal Station, 433 W. St. Paul Ave., the complaint states.

The robbery victim said she and her family were leaving German Fest and parked on St. Paul Avenue when two people approached them. One of the suspects, in a white tank top and orange gloves, pointed a gun toward her family and demanded money, she said.

The person with the gun took the victim's phone and then searched the car for property before demanding money from CashApp, the complaint states. The victim said it would take too long and the two males left the scene.

According to the complaint, police viewed surveillance footage at the Intermodal Station that shows the two males arriving in the stolen vehicle and shows one wearing a white tank top and orange gloves.

The responding officer for the robbery was flagged down by a bystander who stated the two males were breaking into vehicles on Third Street. While in the area of South Third and West Virginia streets, the officer spotted the Hyundai parked in the middle of the road near Bruce Street and observed a young person breaking into a parked vehicle, the complaint states.

The officer parked his squad car and activated his lights and sirens, but the suspect got into the Hyundai and the two males fled the scene, according to the complaint.

The driver of the stolen auto then drove recklessly through Walker's Point, at times on the sidewalk, before accelerating up to a high speed, driving through a stop sign at South Barclay and East Walker streets, and crashing into Jones on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, the complaint states.

Jones was rushed to Froedtert Hospital but died from his injuries a short time later.

Police found surveillance footage of the crash and the moments afterward. Video shows two males jump out of the front passenger's door and the second person to exit was wearing a white tank top and orange gloves, matching the description of the gunman from the robbery, according to the complaint.

Police later identified the teen in the white tank and orange gloves as Joshua-Alexander as he was "potentially active in committing robberies and stealing vehicles," the complaint states. He would eventually admit in his interview that he was the driver after being shown a still image of him, prosecutors said.

On July 31, police went to a residence to look for Joshua-Alexander. While speaking to a resident at the door, an officer observed Joshua-Alexander step into the living room then immediately retreat to the rear of the house. The resident let officers enter to look for Joshua-Alexander, who was found hiding under a pile of clothes in the basement, the complaint states.

He appeared to have wounds consistent with road rash. Prosecutors said surveillance footage shows that after the crash the driver climbed into the passenger seat and then exited the vehicle before sliding on the pavement.

During his interview with a detective, Joshua-Alexander said he stole the auto with a friend and then committed the robbery near the Intermodal Station, according to the complaint. He said he was driving fast to escape arrest and then "crashed into something causing the airbags to deploy," the complaint states.

In addition to first-degree reckless homicide, Joshua-Alexander was charged with fleeing an officer resulting in death, hit-and-run resulting in death, knowingly operating a vehicle without a license, and driving a vehicle without owner's consent, as a party to a crime. He does not yet have a permanent attorney listed.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: 14-year-old charged in crash that killed biker during Harley Fest
The Garfield County District Attorneys Office has dropped charges against seven former staff members accused of systemic abuse at an Enid center for people with developmental disabilities.

Eight former staffers at the Robert M. Greer Center faced felony charges including caretaker abuse and conspiracy in 2023 after police spent months investigating allegations of beatings, chokings and other abuse against residents at the center. Charges have been dropped against all but one of the former staffers as of Tuesday morning after prosecutors were unable to locate a necessary witness, according to court documents.

A preliminary hearing for several of the cases originally scheduled for July was postponed while state prosecutors were looking for the witness. At the July hearing, a prosecutor said the U.S. Marshals Service was looking for the person.

The Garfield County District Attorneys Office did not respond to requests for comment.

The justice system often struggles handling abuse cases involving people with developmental disabilities, said RoseAnn Duplan, a policy specialist with the Oklahoma Disability Law Center. People with intellectual or developmental disabilities may not be seen as reliable witnesses to describe their own alleged abuse. People with disabilities are also more likely to be victims of abuse, according to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

This happens far too often that people just get away with it, Duplan said.

There are still multiple civil cases pending against Liberty of Oklahoma, the private, for-profit company that Oklahoma contracts with to manage the Greer Center. A former staffer is suing the company for emotional damages, alleging the company dismissed her concerns about abuse and failed to protect her from harassment from coworkers. Eleven plaintiffs are part of a separate lawsuit against the company for negligence.

State investigators spent several days at the 52-bed facility last fall and found that violations at the facility placed residents in immediate jeopardy of harm or death. The center worked to address issues around how it handles allegations of abuse, but the state continued to cite Greer throughout the beginning of 2024 for delayed reports of alleged abuse and other infractions.

The Frontier is a nonprofit newsroom that produces fearless journalism with impact in Oklahoma. Read more at www.readfrontier.org.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Prosecutors drop charges against 7 accused of abuse at Greer Center
Marion County Record editor and publisher Eric Meyer sits in the newsroom on July 25. His paper was raided a year ago by local officials. (Photo by 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 the 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.

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.

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.

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PSP: Woman was DUI during wrong way Dauphin County crash that seriously hurt 3

DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  A woman driver was driving under the influence when she caused a wrong-way crash in June that seriously injured three people in Dauphin County, according to police in court documents.

State Police at Harrisburg charged Ashley Williams, 30, of Hummelstown, Monday for the crash that happened early morning on June 29 on U.S. Route 322 in Middle Paxton Township, online court docs show.

The charges show that Williams that she was under the influence of alcohol with a BAC of 0.063, marijuana and other medication during the crash. In Pennsylvania, the legal limit BAC is 0.08.

Williams said to emergency personnel at the crash scene that she wasnt even aware that she was driving and thought she was with friends in Harrisburg, Troopers said.

According to a criminal complaint, while driving a 2004 Toyota Camry just after midnight, Williams went the wrong way on the Mountain Road Exit that leads onto Route 322 and crashed into another vehicle, trapping the two occupants in the wreckage.

York County man charged for road rage shooting involving child

After being freed, they were hurried to the hospital as trauma patients, while Williams was flown, the criminal complaint says.

State Police said there was also an odor of alcohol and marijuana coming from the vehicle.

Williams was interviewed at the hospital and denied taking any drugs or alcohol, Troopers said. Williams stated she was coming home from work in Duncannon and could not explain how the crash happened, Troopers said.

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This Week in Pennsylvania

The charges also note that Williams was not licensed to drive.

Results from Williams blood draw showed that she was allegedly under the influence, Trooper said.

Williams faces multiple felony charges of aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI and accidents involving death or injury while not licensed. She also faces misdemeanor charges of recklessly endangering another person and DUI, along with summary counts of traffic violations.

Williams is currently out on unsecured bail set at $5,000 and has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Aug. 13.

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Puerto Rican Festival returns to New Haven this weekend

Puerto Rican Festival returns to New Haven this weekend

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  The City of New Haven is gearing up for this weekends Puerto Rican Festival.

It will be held on Saturday, Aug. 10, from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the New Haven Green. The event will feature live music, food trucks, arts and crafts and family activities.

The Puerto Rican flag will be raised representing the connection between Puerto Rico and New Haven.

Joe Rodriguez, board president of the Puerto Rican Festival of New Haven, and Lucas Pimentel, CEO of Latinos for Educational Advocacy and Diversity (LEAD), discussed the festival on Connecticuts Morning Buzz.

Watch the video above.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev (Not Pictured) attend the expanded bilateral meeting at the Kuksaroy Presidential Palace. -/Kremlin/dpa

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday accused Kiev of a "provocation" as the Defence Ministry in Moscow said fighting is ongoing in the Russian border region of Kursk, with civilians fleeing a reported Ukrainian incursion.

According to the state-run Russian news agency TASS, Putin said Ukraine had "staged another massive provocation, conducting indiscriminate fire from various types of weapons, including missile launchers, at civilian buildings."

The Defence Ministry earlier said Russian troops are continuing to respond to the incursion, one day after it claimed to have repelled a Ukrainian offensive on the Ukrainian-Russian border.

"The operation to destroy the groups of the Ukrainian armed forces is continuing," the ministry said in a statement, adding that at least 260 Ukrainian soldiers and 50 units of equipment had been lost in the fighting, including seven tanks.

Putin said he would receive further reports on the military situation at a meeting with the Defence Ministry, the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces and Russia's domestic Federal Security Service (FSB).

In response to the offensive, the Investigative Committee in Moscow, Russia's top prosecuting authority, has opened criminal proceedings for what it described as a terrorist attack on Russian territory.

According to Russian authorities, thousands of civilians have fled border villages caught up in the fighting since Tuesday, with at least three killed and more than 20 injured.

Alexei Smirnov, the acting governor of Kursk, called on residents to get to safety and for citizens to donate blood. At least six children are said to be among the injured.

While Moscow claimed the situation was under control, a number of Russian military bloggers said the advance represented a major offensive by Ukrainian forces.

Unverifiable reports suggest Ukrainian units are moving towards the town of Sudzha in Russia's Kursk region, where there have been calls for an evacuation of civilians.

One blogger, Alexander Sladkov, reported that Ukrainian forces had advanced 10 kilometres into Russian territory.

Various bloggers estimated the Ukrainian forces at between 900 and 2,000 men. Military observers say Russian troops are only weakly deployed in the border region.

Ukraine has not provided official confirmation of the offensive. Kiev has repeatedly attacked targets in Russia since Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday Ukraine's military crossed the border into Kursk Tuesday with an attack he called a "large-scale provocation. File photo by Gavriil Grigorov/EPA-EFE/ SPUTNIK/Kremlin Pool

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday accused Ukraine of a "large-scale provocation" amid reports of an incursion on the Kursk region.

Putin's statement came after Russia claimed Ukrainian troops backed by 11 tanks and more than 20 armored vehicles attacked the region on Tuesday. Ukraine did not immediately comment publicly on the alleged attack.

"As you know, the Kyiv regime has undertaken yet another large-scale provocation, delivering indiscriminate fire from various types of weapons, including missiles, at civilian buildings, residential houses, and ambulances," Putin said in comments shared by the Kremlin on Telegram.

According to Russian Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov in televised remarks Wednesday, Ukraine's "advance" into Kursk was met by Russian forces "continuing to destroy the adversary in areas directly adjacent to the Russian-Ukrainian border."

Gerasimov said Ukraine used up to 1,000 troops for the cross-border attack.

The Russian Defense Ministry said Wednesday that "air and missile strikes, artillery fire as well as units of the State Border Covering Force prevented the enemy from advancing deep into the territory of the Russian Federation."

Russian officials and thousands of Russian residents in the area fled the fighting.

In a Telegram post, Kursk Acting Governor Alexey Smirnov said "settlements in the Kursk region were subjected to massive shelling from Ukraine. There are dead and injured civilians. As previously reported, two people were wounded in the Glushkovsky district, five people, including three children, in the city of Sudzha."

Smirnov added on the Kursk governor Telegram channel that the attack came from Ukraine's 22nd Mechanized Brigade and added that, "troops covering the state border, together with the units of the border troops of the FSB of Russia, are repelling attacks and inflicting fire damage on the enemy in the area of the state border and reserves in the territory of the Sumy region."

The alleged Ukrainian incursion happened around 5 p.m. local time Tuesday, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.

Putin, whose forces have routinely purposefully attacked Ukrainian civilian targets since invading Ukraine in February 2022, accused Ukraine of firing indiscriminately at civilian buildings and residences in the Kursk attack.

According to a Telegram statement from the Russian Ministry of Defense, "Having suffered losses, the Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group retreated to its territory, some of the militants tried to gain a foothold directly on the territory adjacent to the state border, where they were blocked by units of the Russian army."
Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that the actions of the Ukrainian military in the Kursk region were a "large-scale provocation" at a meeting with government members on Aug. 7.

Moscow claimed that Ukrainian forces crossed the border into the Kursk region on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil. Kyiv has not commented on the fighting in the area.

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. These attacks were not preceded by any Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory.

Putin claimed that Ukrainian soldiers are carrying out attacks on civilian facilities in the Kursk region, adding he is planning to meet with the heads of Russian security agencies. According to Russian officials, five people were killed and at least 20 injured as a result of clashes in the area.

These claims cannot be independently verified.

Earlier in the day, a source in intelligence services told the Kyiv Independent that a Ukrainian first-person-view (FPV) drone hit a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter over Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6.

According to the crowd-sourced monitoring website DeepState, one Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter and at least two tanks were destroyed in the battle amid reports of a cross-border incursion into Kursk Oblast.

Read also: Ukrainian special forces raid Russian-occupied island in Black Sea

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Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin has commented on the alleged attack on Kursk Oblast by Ukraine at a meeting with his government on 7 August. He called it a "provocation" and said he would be holding a meeting with security forces to discuss the latest developments in the oblast.

Source: Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency RIA Novosti

Details: Putin complained that the events in the oblast were a "provocation" by Ukraine. He said there had been "indiscriminate fire" using various types of weapons, including rockets.

Quote from Putin: "Immediately after our meeting, I will have a meeting with the heads of security agencies, the Ministry of Defence, the General Staff, the Federal Security Service (FSB)  I mean the Federal Security Service department [responsible] for border control  and I will hear the latest report from my colleagues on what is happening in Kursk Oblast."

Background:

On the morning of 6 August, Smirnov claimed that Ukrainian forces had mounted an attempt to infiltrate the Sudzha and Korenevo districts of Kursk Oblast. "FSB border troops and Russian army soldiers prevented the border from being breached," he added, asking residents to "remain alert".

On the morning of 6 August, local Russian Telegram channels started spreading reports of fighting in the border area of Kursk Oblast. They claimed that Ukrainian forces were advancing to Goncharovka in the Sudzha district with their equipment.

However, the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC) and the Freedom of Russia Legion (FRL)  volunteer groups consisting of Russians fighting on Ukraine's side  have not reported carrying out any operations in the border area with Russia.

The Russian Ministry of Defence said Russian reserves were moving to the state border with Ukraine in Kursk Oblast.

The military analysis project DeepState has released photos of likely destroyed Russian equipment in Kursk Oblast.

Russian propagandists and so-called milbbloggers claim that Ukrainian forces, which are said to have entered Russia's Kursk Oblast on the night of 5-6 August, have secured a foothold in the border area. Ukraine has not yet commented on the events in Kursk Oblast.

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A district court judge on Tuesday paved the way for a vote to remove Colorado Republican Party Chairman Dave Williams by lifting a temporary restraining order that blocked a group of Colorado Republicans from holding a meeting to consider whether to fire the party boss.
Russian President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with Russian Army Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, Defense Minister Andrey Belousov, and other Russian top officials over clashes with Ukrainian troops in Russia's Kursk region on Aug. 7.

Moscow claims that Ukrainian forces crossed the border into the Kursk region on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil that were described by Putin as "a large-scale provocation." Kyiv has not commented on the fighting in the area.

Russian pro-war Telegram channels claimed that fighting was ongoing in the region's towns of Sudzha and Korenevo, writing that the Russian military has retreated from the Sudzha gas metering station, which transits gas to Europe through Ukraine.

European natural gas prices jumped over reports that Ukrainian forces had reached the key transit point of Sudzha, Bloomberg reported.

Vlitaliy Slashchov, the town's mayor, claimed that the situation in Sudzha, which is located some 10 kilometers (six miles) from the border with Ukraine, is "very tense," Russian state-controlled RIA Novosti news agency wrote.

Gerasimov told Putin via video that Ukrainian soldiers allegedly aimed to "seize" the territory of the Suzhansky district, but their "advance in the Kursk direction was halted."

These claims cannot be verified independently.

Satellite imagery obtained by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) shows significant damage to the Sudzha road border crossing point as of the morning of Aug. 6.

The Kursk region lies on the border with Ukraine's Sumy Oblast, which has been experiencing daily attacks since Russian troops were pushed out of the oblast and back across the border in April 2022.

Over the past day, Moscow's troops have increased aviation activity near the border areas of Sumy Oblast, dropping about 30 guided aerial bombs on the settlements, Ukraine's General Staff said in its latest update. The local authorities ordered further mandatory evacuation of the border settlements.

Read also: Ukrainian FPV drone hit Russian Mi-28 helicopter in historic feat, source says

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Putins war against Ukraine and the West has spilled into Africa and the Middle East. Most recently, Kyiv claims to have supplied rebel groups in Mali with intelligence that led to an attack against Russian Wagner Group mercenaries in which 84 were reportedly killed.

Wagner fought in the war against Ukraine until its now deceased leader Yevgeny Prigozhin launched an abortive coup against the Kremlin last year. Since then they have expanded operations in the Sahel and central Africa and have now been re-branded from the name of Hitlers favourite composer to a military unit he created in 1941, the Africa Corps.

While fighting an attritional war against Russian aggression, Ukraine has been hamstrung by lily-livered restrictions on use of Western supplied munitions to go on the offensive inside Russian sovereign territory. Nevertheless Kyiv has taken the fight to the Russians wherever it can, using its own drones as well as ground forces. That has had limited effect but has diverted some Russian defensive assets away from the front as well as providing an important boost to Ukrainian morale.

Meanwhile Kyiv has sought military opportunities even further afield, perhaps in an echo of Churchills Special Operations Executive which sent military operatives to establish a second front in Europe before D-Day was even a possibility. Since at least last year, Ukrainian special forces have endeavoured to damage Russian military capabilities by attacking elsewhere in the world.

In May, General Kyrylo Budanov, chief of Ukraines military intelligence, said: We conduct operations aimed at reducing Russian military potential anywhere where its possible. That includes Sudan, where Russian mercenaries are supporting the rebel Rapid Support Forces which have been fighting against government troops since last spring. Moscows primary purpose was to secure gold supplies facilitated by the rebels to fight the war in Ukraine, circumventing Western sanctions. Working to disrupt those supplies, Ukraine has provided the embattled government forces with drones and military training, and Ukrainian special forces have reportedly carried out attacks against Russian mercenaries.

The picture is now shifting though, with Russia seemingly changing sides in the civil war to secure access to a naval base near Port Sudan and align with its ally Iran which has been backing the government. Russias deal with the government, which would involve game-changing military assistance, will include Sudan severing ties with Ukraine.

In the Middle East, Ukrainian special forces have reportedly been attacking Russian troops and destroying combat equipment in Syria since at least the beginning of this year, in conjunction with anti-regime forces in the country. Since the Ukraine war began, Russia has transferred some of its combat forces out of Syria to bolster troop levels there, and Kyivs objective will be to apply military pressure to reverse that move.

Ukrainian special forces efforts in Africa and the Middle East may be little more than pin-pricks which have minimal strategic effect. But in a war where the countrys survival is at stake, and with Western support flagging, it has no choice than to hit its enemy wherever it can. Undermining malign Russian activities around the world is very clearly in our own interests as well as Kyivs. Putins collaboration with Iran, including in Syria, helps destabilise the Middle East, as we are witnessing today.

In Africa, Russia is gaining control of strategic resources as well as acquiring wealth to fight Putins war in Ukraine. In Mali, the Africa Corps has secured uranium mines and is working to deny Western access to them, potentially representing a huge threat to our nuclear electricity production, another opportunity for energy blackmail. Moscow is also working to increase political backing from African countries for its war against Ukraine as well as its wider competition with the West. We should therefore be supporting Ukraine in its foreign endeavours wherever we can.

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Python Q&A: How many pythons have been removed since the first Florida Python Challenge?

Note to readers: The Naples Daily News and News-Press are asking experts questions about Burmese Pythons in 2024. The invasive snake is wreaking havoc with the ecosystem in southern parts of Florida. We recently submitted a list of questions to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

If you have a python question you can send an email to mbickel@gannett.com.

Q. How many pythons have been removed since the Florida Python Challenge started in 2013?

The annual Florida Python Challenge starts on Friday (Aug. 9) at 12:01 a.m.

Participants this year will have the chance to win a share of more than $25,000 in prizes for removing invasive Burmese pythons from the wild. The competition ends on Aug. 18 at 5 p.m.

More: Can a gun be used to kill a python in the Florida Python Challenge? Here are the rules.

A total of 917 pythons have been removed as a result of the Florida Python Challenge to date. The first Florida Python Challenge was in 2013.

The 2023 Florida Python Challenge removed 209 invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades.

One thousand and fifty people from 35 states (and Belgium) registered for the 10-day competition in 2023.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: How many pythons have been removed by hunter in Florida Challenge?
How to qualify for unemployment in Mississippi

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV)  If you recently found yourself out of work in Mississippi, you should consider applying for unemployment insurance (UI).

The Mississippi Department of Employment Securitys (MDES) UI program is designed to ease the economic burden of unemployment. It provides a temporary source of income for individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own. In Mississippi, employers fund the program.

As soon as you become unemployed, residents may file a claim for UI benefits online at any time or by calling 601-493-9427 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. All MDES services are free.

Below are answers to common MDES questions.

What information do I need to know or have on hand to apply for unemployment?

Social Security number

Complete mailing address and phone number

The names, addresses and phone numbers of all ones employers over the last 18 months

The dates worked and the reason one left each employer

Alien Registration number or Visa number, if not a U.S. Citizen

State Economist: No cause for panic as recession fears impact markets

What are the eligibility requirements for UI benefits?

Being unemployed through no fault of the claimant

File a weekly claim as required; claims filed late may be denied

Be mentally and physically able to work

Be available for work immediately

Be actively seeking work

Provided you meet all the eligibility requirements, you can expect to receive your first check after you have filed your second weekly certification. The first week is a waiting period.

Can I file a claim against another state if I live in Mississippi?

If you worked in more than one state you may be eligible for a combined wage claim. The base period wages from all states in which you worked are combined and you may be able to establish a combined wage claim under the law of a single state to qualify for benefits. An MDES unemployment claims representative can explain the options and procedures for filing a combined wage claim.

What is the maximum weekly benefit amount?

In Mississippi, the maximum is $235.00 and the minimum is $30.00. Report any earnings, before deductions, for the week you perform the work, regardless of when you get paid. MDES will deduct any earnings over $40.00 from your weekly benefit amount.

Your benefits may be reduced by pensions contributed to by your base period employers (excluding Social Security), as well as child support obligations.

Counties with the highest unemployment in Mississippi

Do I have to pay federal income tax on the UI benefits that I receive?

Yes. You can elect to have tax withheld from each benefit payment, or you can wait and pay the tax when you file your tax return.

What if I refuse an offer of work?

If MDES determines that you denied suitable work, your benefits may be denied for up to 12 weeks.

For more information, visit MDESs website.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Hate crimes were a topic of discussion at the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Departments First Tuesday meeting in the northeast valley this month.

Weve seen plenty of incidents where anyone who is different from the norm is targeted, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Assistant Sheriff, Sasha Larkin said in an interview 8 News Now obtained in April of 2023.

Theyre crimes motivated by bias against race, color, religion sexual orientation, gender, or disability.

Unfortunately, not all hateful behavior, including hate speech, is considered a crime by law enforcement.

According to The Nevada Department of Public Safety, hate crimes across Clark County are up 60% with 133 reported cases this year compared to last year.

In Tuesdays meeting, Clark County Deputy District Attorney, John Taylor stated that theyve seen a spike in anti-white crimes with places such as parking garages and camps being prime areas where many of these incidents take place.

Race and ethnicity continue to be a top target for hate crimes and with the ongoing battle overseas between Israel and Hamas, local religious groups are seeing an uptick against them too.

Its getting really concerning  the antisemitism, the violence, the oppression of civil rights of Jewish students and Jewish people is very concerning, Dan Laird a resident said in an interview 8 News Now obtained in May of 2024.

While the FBI hasnt put out an updated list of hate crime statistics for this year, in 2022, they reported nearly 12,000 incidents, which is relatively low due to so many of these crimes going unreported.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Race for the exits? A new survey shows how many Texas teachers are looking to quit

As school districts across Texas get ready to welcome students back, many of the states teachers may be looking for another line of work, according to a survey released this week.

Near-record numbers of teachers told survey-takers last spring that they were strongly considering leaving the profession, according to a report released this week by the Texas State Teachers Association. The organization pointed to stagnant pay, job stress and political gridlock in Austin around school funding as factors driving teachers out of the classroom.

Of the 840 teachers association members surveyed, 65% said they were strongly considering leaving the profession, according to the report. Surveys were conducted anonymously, so its impossible to say how many of those teachers resigned over the summer.

That figure represents a decline from the 70% who told survey-takers in 2022 that they were strongly considering leaving the profession, but those two years still mark the highest rates in the surveys 44-year history. Researchers at Sam Houston State University have fielded the survey every two years since 1980. No survey was conducted in 2020 because of the pandemic.

A third of teachers told survey-takers that they had to take extra jobs during the school year to make ends meet. About two-thirds of those teachers said they thought their moonlighting jobs hurt the quality of their instruction, but said they needed the extra income.

Ovidia Molina, the organizations president, said she was concerned that many of the teachers surveyed had already switched careers or would soon do so. She called on state leaders to step up support for teachers and stop attacking public schools. Only 4% of teachers surveyed said they thought lawmakers and other state leaders have a positive opinion of them.

Gov. Greg Abbott and his legislative allies have spent several years undermining the morale and reputations of teachers with inadequate school funding, proposed book bans, attacks on classroom diversity and laws imposing political restrictions on what teachers can teach, Molina said.

Many districts across the state are facing budget shortfalls due to the end of federal pandemic relief money and a lack of new money from the state. During last years legislative session, Texas lawmakers considered proposals to send some of the states multi-billion dollar budget surplus to schools to help keep up with rising costs and raise teacher salaries. But those proposals became mired in the debate over school vouchers, and ultimately went nowhere.

Tarrant County teachers feel lingering pandemic job stress

Steven Poole, executive director of United Educators Association, said the survey results track with what hes heard from teachers in Tarrant County. UEA, which represents teachers in about four dozen districts in North Texas, is separate from Texas State Teachers Association and wasnt involved in the survey.

Many of the biggest sources of job stress for teachers come from the lingering effects of the pandemic, Poole said. In the days immediately after school districts reopened in person, teachers had to manage sets of students at once  those in their classrooms and those learning remotely from home. That expectation left many teachers feeling overwhelmed and led to burnout, Poole said, and many havent recovered. Thats led many teachers to retire or leave the classroom for another line of work, he said.

Student behavior issues are another source of job stress that teachers often bring up, Poole said. School leaders across the country, including in Fort Worth, reported a sharp uptick in disruptive behavior and fights after students came back following school shutdowns. Poole said district leaders need to offer more support to teachers who are struggling to manage their classrooms. That means investing in behavior specialists and intervention specialists to work with students who are acting out in class, he said.

But Poole pointed out that those kinds of support positions are often among the first areas district leaders cut when budgets are tight.

They dont want to cut classroom teachers, but theyre cutting the support schools have, and that just compounds the problem, Poole said.
(Bloomberg) -- The UK government is considering the consolidation of multiple local government pension plans to pool their 360 billion ($458 billion) of assets and create a Canada-style model, according to the Times newspaper.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who is meeting with the head of Canadas largest pension funds in Toronto on Wednesday, believes a single fund will drive investment into infrastructure projects and generate higher returns. The consolidation is also designed to cut costs and fees, the paper reported.

Reeves has already announced a review of the sector and plans to make pension fund reform part of her first Mansion House speech in the City of London later this year, the paper said. She will not introduce mandatory rules to force pension funds to invest a certain proportion into riskier UK stocks or assets.

Canadas pension funds, which include the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan and the Canada Pension Plan, are noted for their significant infrastructure investments, something the government wants UK funds to do more of.

The size of Canadian pension schemes means they can invest far more in productive assets like vital infrastructure than ours do, the newspaper reported Reeves as saying. I want British schemes to learn lessons from the Canadian model and fire up the UK economy, which would deliver better returns for savers and unlock billions of pounds of investment.

The Treasury didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Rady Childrens nurses voted Tuesday regarding a contract agreement with the hospital. The result? No deal.

This is the third time the health field workers have turned down a deal. They are demanding increased wages, decreased medical premiums, among other issues of concern.

Two San Diego restaurants stripped of Michelin Guide honors

Hundreds of the hospitals nurses hit the picket lines last month, a historic two-day strike  the unions first since it was formed over 20 years ago.

Rady Childrens officials have maintained that the contracts were fair and equitable in meeting the nurses demands. Nonetheless, the nurses dont agree and are demanding more impactful changes to the contract.

In a statement released by Rady Childrens following the nurses rejection vote, officials said:

Rady Childrens top priority has always been, and always will be, to provide exceptional care to all children and their families in the San Diego region.

Rady Childrens is disappointed to learn tonight that, for the third time, nurses have voted against ratification of a tentative agreement between UNOCH/Teamsters Local 1699 and the hospital.

This tentative agreement was the best path forward for nurses and the hospital. It would have provided substantial family-supporting pay and benefits for our valued nurses.

The hospital will continue to bargain in good faith with UNOCH/Teamsters.

Negotiations are expected to continue between the nurses and 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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
The post Rammstein Address Fans as Till Lindemann Sues News Outlet Over Sexual Misconduct Report appeared first on Consequence.

Rammstein have issued an open letter to fans addressing last years allegations of sexual misconduct made against frontman Till Lindemann.

In 2023, multiple female fans came forward publicly to accuse Lindemann of engaging in sexual misconduct at Rammstein concerts and backstage/after-show parties related to the bands Row 0 fanclub. At the time, both Rammstein and Lindemann denounced the accusations, though German authorities went as far as to launch an investigation that has since been dropped.

Get Till Lindemann Tickets Here

With Rammstein having just wrapped up the last leg of their massive stadium tour, the ongoing discourse surrounding the sexual misconduct allegations was apparently enough for the band to issue an open letter on Instagram [translated from German via ThePRP]:

We want to say a big thank you to all of our fans, our friends and visitors to our concerts. Thank you for your support, your warmth and support on this 2024 tour. We could feel it everywhere and felt carried on a wave full of emotions. It was an honor to be able to play for you, to be a part of these happy moments and the joy we shared. Because of you, we are a band that has found its joy in music and on stage again. Every concert was a healing act for us. We thank you for that.

We have been actively dealing with the allegations made against the band since last summer. We take [these accusations] seriously, even if a lot of it is baseless and grossly exaggerated. It is an internal process that will accompany us for a long time. Each of us does it in our own way and deals with it differently. At this point we would particularly like to thank our families and loved ones for their unrestricted support and love; they too were hit hard by the allegations made and the medias handling of them.

We thank our crew, our management, all our employees and everyone who has supported us and remained loyal along this journey. This massive stadium tour with this great show and this extraordinary stage has now come to an end after 135 concerts in 5 years with 6 million fans. Its not Rammstein. Its not us. Its not you. The path continues.

Farewell, goodbye, GOODBYE!!

Regarding the media coverage of the accusations, Billboard has reported that Lindemann is suing the German news outlet Der Spiegel over their press and podcast coverage. Lindemanns lawyers issued a press release stating that the accusations of sexual misconduct are without exception untrue and accused the outlet of using falsified documents and attempting to commit trial fraud.

The lawsuit comes ahead of Lindemanns first North American solo tour, which kicks off September 17th in San Antonio (tickets available here).

Rammsteins open letter in German via Instagram can be seen below.

Rammstein Address Fans as Till Lindemann Sues News Outlet Over Sexual Misconduct Report

Jon Hadusek

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Motions to deny bail for three of the co-defendants in the orchestrated murder plot of Charles Andrew Jones II spell out in great detail the demise of the Jacksonville rapper whose stage name was Julio Foolio.

Jones was ambushed, shot and killed celebrating his 26th birthday in the parking lot of a Home2 Suites by Hilton (initial reports said it was a Holiday Inn that was next door) across from the University of South Florida in Tampa on June 23. Three others were wounded.

On July 27 the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office arrested Sean Andre Gathright, 18, Isaiah Jermaine Chance, 21, and Alicia Latoya Andrews, 21. Three days later SWAT officers arrested Rashad Treyvionne Murphy, 30, leaving one fugitive suspect with an outstanding warrant, Davion Vershard Murphy, 27. All are facing charges of first-degree premeditated murder with a firearm and conspiracy to commit first-degree premeditated murder with a firearm, while Gathright and the Murphys also face three counts of attempted murder.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said during a news conference announcing the initial arrests that it was part of a long-term gang feud and that ATK and the 1200 worked together to target Jones of the 6 Block gang. He said Gathright and the Murphys are believed to be the ones who did the actual shooting.

The state filed 18-page motions for pretrial detention or to deny bail for the first three defendants, Hillsborough County court records show. Rashad Murphy still remains in the Duval County jail and as of Thursday had not shown up in Hillsborough court files.

Highlights from the details include:

Spent rifle casings found in Gathrights vehicle are linked with a May 23 homicide and a prior attempt to kill Jones last year.

Rashad Murphy had initially been arrested a few days afterward on June 26 in Georgia but released.

On June 27 search warrants were executed at Chances home where Andrews also was and at Gathrights home where multiple weapons were found at each.

A text message from one of the defendants phones read Im koming home my thirst is quenched !! pop a bottle of don julio today, deemed an apparent reference to Jones.

Thirty-one 9mm Glock spent shell casings were recovered at the scene but none from rifles because the two AR-style weapons seen in security video had devices attached to collect them.

One of the other three other wounded victims was in another vehicle.

Gathright, Chance and Andrews are all being represented by the 13th Judicial Circuit Public Defenders Office and had pretrial hearings scheduled for Thursday afternoon.

This is a promotion posted on X for rapper Julio Foolio's birthday June 22, 2024.

What else did the motions say about the Julio Foolio arrests?

The following is all attributed to court records.

The investigation shows that on June 22 the defendants traveled in a silver Chevrolet Cruze and a black Chevrolet Impala from Jacksonville to Tampa, where Jones had posted on his Instagram he would be celebrating his 26th birthday. They had also rented an Airbnb there.

On June 23, Chance and girlfriend Andrews were in the Cruze. They tracked and followed Jones and his entourage to two locations in Tampa  Teasers Gentlemans Club and Truth 18 nightclub  where Jones was scheduled to make appearances. At both locations Chance can be seen on video surveillance using a cellphone to communicate with Gathright who was in the Impala. The Impala then arrived at those locations. Both vehicles then followed Jones to the scene where the homicide later occurred at the Home2 Suites.

The victim was traveling in a three-car convoy with other friends and acquaintances. At Home2 Suites, the Cruze drove by the victims parked vehicles twice about 4:30 a.m. and then parked at the side of the building. A few minutes later the three occupants of the Impala got out and began shooting at the victims vehicles.

Rashad Murphy is taken into custody July 30 as one of five suspects in the June 23 shooting death of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio in Tampa.

The front windshield of the Dodge Charger that Jones was riding in was struck multiple times, killing him and injuring two others. The back window of a Nissan Altima that was about 10 feet away from Jones Charger also was struck multiple times, hitting another victim. The Times-Union is not naming the other victims for their safety.

Two of the shooters had AR-style rifles that had bags attached to the ejection port side consistent in appearance to black mesh brass catchers. Brass catchers are designed to be attached to rifles for the purpose of collecting spent casings as they are ejected from the firearm preventing them from falling on the ground.

The third shooter had a pistol. The muzzle rate of the flashes on video, along with the impacts on the windshield made it apparent the pistol was firing at a fully automatic rate and left behind 31 9mm spent shell casings that were recovered. They were determined to have likely been fired by a Generation 5 Glock.

A License Plate Reader search was conducted for all vehicles matching the make, model and year range of the suspect vehicles having likely traveled from Jacksonville to Tampa. The results revealed an Impala registered at Gathrights address and a Cruze registered to a female who was confirmed to have shared an address with a Murphy brother in prison.

Jacksonville police take Sean Gathright into custody July 27 in the shooting death Julio Foolio.

The License Plate Reader search determined both vehicles left the Jacksonville area in the afternoon of June 22 around the same time Jones began posting on Instagram where he was staying. Following the shootings, the Cruze traveled back toward Jacksonville and the Impala east toward Polk County.

On June 26 the Gwinnett County Sheriffs Office in Georgia located the Cruze pulling into a hotel parking lot in Norcross. Deputies attempted a traffic stop at which point the lone occupant, later identified as Rashad Murphy, got out and ran. He was arrested on misdemeanor charges of obstruction and providing false information to law enforcement.

Examination of the Cruze when compared to the video surveillance at the homicide scene showed matching damage on the rear passenger side. The motion does not say whether Murphy was questioned about the homicide case while in Georgias custody.

Also on June 26, the Impala was located in Polk County near the home of a family member of Gathright. That person told investigators Gathright called on June 23 saying he was on his way to visit and arrived in the Impala sometime during the evening. According to the family member, Gathright said he had given a ride to a couple of friends. He ate dinner at the home before returning to Jacksonville in a Toyota 4Runner registered to Gathrights mother. He left the Impala but removed items that he took with him in the 4Runner.

Isaiah Chance is handcuffed July 27 on charges in the death of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio in Tampa.

When the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office conducted a traffic stop of the 4Runner Gathright was driving on June 26, an officer located a Glock 9mm semiautomatic pistol in the center console. The search also revealed a bag with .223 rifle live rounds and approximately nine rifle spent casings. But nothing matched the casings recovered from the Tampa shooting.

The spent rifle casings did have a presumptive match (awaiting Florida Department of Law Enforcement confirmation) to two prior shootings. One was a May 23 fatal shooting in close proximity to a girlfriend of Chance. The victim, 41-year-old Byron Wesley Walker, was shot multiple times in the 10500 block of Maidstone Cove Drive. The second shooting was a prior attempt on Jones life on Oct. 7, 2023. The rapper was ambushed driving a Dodge Charger that was shot up in the 3100 block of West 16th Street but only suffered a wound to a foot.

On June 27 the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office executed a search warrant at Gathrights home. A gun safe was located with multiple rifles and at least one equipped with a brass catcher. Two 9mm spent casings were also found in the same safe and were a presumptive match to those found at the scene of Jones killing in Tampa.

On the same day, officers simultaneously executed a search warrant at Chances home where Andrews also was present. Officers observed in plain sight two Glock 9mms and a poster on Chances bedroom wall of a drawing with fists making a thumbs down symbol and the words Bully Down. Detectives believe it was referring to Jones.

Alicia Andrews complies with Jacksonville Sheriff's Office orders to keep her hands up during her July 27 arrest in the death of Julio Foolio.

Although multiple Glocks were recovered between Gathright and Chance, the actual Glock used in this homicide has not yet been recovered by law enforcement.

Based on phone records it was apparent that post-homicide, Gathright drove the Impala to conceal it at his family members house in Polk County, Davion Murphy took the Cruze back to Jacksonville and the other three defendants took an Uber.

The iCloud warrant on Gathrights phone also revealed that at about 1 p.m. on June 23 after the shootings, a user messaged two separate numbers while the group was at their Airbnb in Tampa. One message read Im koming home my thirst is quenched !! pop a bottle of don julio today  murphy and the other message read im koming home my thirst is quenched I love you - murphy. Both messages were sent from Gathrights phone but attributed to a Murphy. Detectives believe the Don Julio tequila message is intended as disrespect to Jones, also known as Julio Foolio.

The documents do not address why the suspects werent arrested sooner, but it was likely to await lab results for evidence.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Documents reveal new details in Jacksonville rapper Foolio murder
The town of Monument has appointed Madeline VanDenHoek, its current director of parks and community partnerships, to the role of interim town manager.

"She's more than capable of doing this job, so I think it's a great decision," said Monument Police Chief Patrick Regan at a town council meeting this week.

The town recently parted ways with previous town manager Mike Foreman.

Regan and VanDenHoek had been acting co-town managers during the administrative leave of Foreman, which ended last week in a separation from the city. Monument mayor Mitch LaKind said in a statement on Thursday that Foreman and the city "agreed" on his departure.

The personnel issue that involved the former town manager of six years was not disclosed. The town council called for a "performance review" during his administrative leave period, meeting in several executive sessions in June.

VanDenHoek is a Monument native with years of experience in local government. She has worked in various roles at the city since 2013 and has a masters degree in public administration. She told town council that she appreciated the opportunity to "test drive" the role.

"I care a lot about our town, our employees," she said.

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VanDenHoek will oversee a city planning department coming off a months-long hiatus on accepting new construction projects during a busy local election year.

After chronic short-staffing in the planning department, a pause on new projects started in January ended July 15. Newly-hired planning director Dan Ungerleider said that he was "confident" the department could handle demand and backlog for upcoming projects seeking approval in the city.

This November, the town will elect four councilmembers and likely decide on one or more ballot measures. One measure would put in place a proposed 5% lodging tax on hotels, truck stops and short-term rentals, potentially funding Americans with Disabilities Act improvements at Monument parks and playgrounds to the tune of an estimated $220,000 in added revenue.

The town council has until its September meeting to finalize the ballot measure.

Tom Tharnish, Monument director of public works, told council that VanDenHoek had done well so far in the job.

"Her experience and expertise in a lot of areas has really come in handy, and it's really been a stark change from where we were to how we're getting things done now," he said.
We have some underwater video footage for you! When the team was viewing white sharks feeding on the whale carcass off of Scituate, MA a few weeks ago, they were able to get some video of this curious white shark. You can see some of its unique markings along its face! pic.twitter.com/sd2xndSH09  Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (@A_WhiteShark) August 5, 2024

SCITUATE  Say chum!

A great white shark in Scituate was recently captured in a too-close-for-comfort video coming snout to lens with an underwater camera operated by the Cape-based Atlantic White Shark Conservancy.

Taken about two weeks ago, the video showing the shark's sharp rows of jagged teeth and unique facial markings was posted to the conservancy's social media sites Monday, Aug. 5.

"When the team was viewing white sharks feeding on the whale carcass off of Scituate, MA a few weeks ago, they were able to get some video of this curious white shark," the organization said in a post accompanying the video on X.

In the 29-second clip, viewers can see what appears to be a bit of that meal stuck in the shark's back teeth as it swims by, although it's doubtful anyone or anything would stop the predator to point that out.

A camera operated by the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy shows a great white in the waters off Scituate.

More seals, more sharks

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy works alongside the New England Aquarium, the state Division of Marine Fisheries and other organizations in both tracking the sharks and educating the public about their steadily increasing presence along the South Shore, Cape and Islands, due in part to an explosion in the region's seal population after the hunting and killing of seals was outlawed in Massachusetts in the 1960s. That ban went nationwide in 1972, via the Marine Mammal Protection Act, that seals began to recolonize the region.

The number of great white sharks dropped in the 1980s and 1990s with the expansion of commercial and recreational fishing. Since aquatic mammals were listed in 1997 as a species that people could not hunt, capture or kill in the northwest Atlantic, their numbers are rebounding. The sharks can range in size from 11 to 16 feet on average depending on age and gender.

Sharktivity app, other tools aid cameras in tracking great whites

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy and New England Aquarium teamed up a few years ago to develop the Sharktivity app, which provides information and push notifications to users on white shark sightings, detections and movements.

The Sharktivity app allows users to both see as well as report shark sightings.

All the data collected by the organization is available to the public on an interactive web application accessible via the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy's White Shark Logbook website, which scientists have been building in recent years.

Towns including Scituate, Marshfield, Duxbury and Plymouth have joined in the effort to warn people about the sharks presence  even if the risk of interaction is low  and aid in research efforts to gauge the number of tagged sharks present in the hopes of establishing their behavioral patterns and migratory schedules by deploying acoustic detection buoys in the water that capture information on the presence of tagged sharks passing within range.

The data will be retrieved when the buoys are pulled from the water in the winter.

Drones and dorsal fin camera tags are also helping researchers collect more accurate and expanded information.

Balancing better great white detection with actual increases

John Chisholm, an adjunct scientist for the fisheries, science and emerging technologies program at the New England Aquariums Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, has been studying sharks for nearly 50 years. He said in a 2023 Patriot Ledger interview that the advancements in detection technology may skew the perception of just how much the great white population in the area has actually increased.

More: Photos: Marshfield harbormaster team launches shark-monitoring buoys in Cape Cod Bay

Were tagging more (of the sharks), so were recording more, he said. But they are here and have been long before the Pilgrims, and their numbers are only increasing.

David R. Smith covers breaking, trending and restaurant news for The Patriot Ledger. He can be reached at Drsmith@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Atlantic White Shark Conservancy shares video of shark off Scituate
Ready for school? Know what vaccines are required in Texas and when to get flu, COVID shots

Ready to go back to school? Are you caught up on all your vaccinations? What about the COVID and flu shots?

Most schools start next week, unless you're in Austin school district, which doesn't start until Aug. 20 (lucky kids!), and schools like Del Valle, which started this week (completely unlucky kids!).

Here's what vaccines you need to get into school without getting a waiver, and when you can expect the flu and COVID shots:

When will the latest COVID and flu vaccines be available?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week recommended updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older for this fall season.

We need a new vaccine of each of these because they are worldwide viruses that are constantly evolving, said Dr. Edgar Navarro Garza, a pediatrician at Harbor Health. "The virus changes because it's trying to fight our defenses."

You get a COVID-19 and flu vaccine to not get complications, Garza said. "You might still get sick with the virus," he said, but you are less likely to be part of these statistics: In 2023, almost a million people in the United States were hospitalized for COVID and more than 75,000 died from the virus. In the most recent flu season, almost 45,000 people died from flu, according to the CDC.

This season's flu vaccines usually start to show up in mid- to late August or the beginning of September. The new COVID-19 booster is expected to be available by mid- to late-September. You can do both at the same time, with the ideal time being before Halloween. That gives your body time to form a new set of the protective antibodies before the height of the winter COVID-19 and flu season, which usually is at its height from Thanksgiving and lasts through February.

Of course, as we have learned this summer, COVID-19 and flu can happen at any time. Texas currently has a very high level of COVID-19 in the wastewater and locally 80% to 100% of the water sampled at Travis County treatment plant has COVID in it. A Hays County plant had 60% to 80%. If you didn't get the current COVID-19 booster last fall or later, you could go ahead and get that version before school starts. You don't have to wait until the newest shot.

Learn more: Is COVID still around in Central Texas? Austin area seeing spike in cases this summer.

Monica Ortiz receives her flu vaccine from CVS Pharmacy Manager Rochelle Guyse at the CVS on Slaughter Lane in South Austin last September. Both the flu shot and the new COVID-19 shot should be available next month, if not before.

What vaccines do you need to get into school?

Anytime you enroll your child in a new public school, you'll need your child's vaccine record.

There are two key times when all students' vaccines records are checked: kindergarten and seventh grade. The seventh grade one often sneaks up on parents.

Children are not allowed to attend school without required vaccines unless they have an exemption. For kids who have never had any vaccines, there is a catch-up schedule from the CDC that doctors will follow.

The Texas Department of State Health Services has a handy worksheet with all the required vaccines, but basically it breaks down to this:

By kindergarten:

Diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis (usually four or five doses)

Polio (three to four doses)

Measles, mumps and rubella (two doses)

Hepatitis B (three doses)

Varicella (two doses)

Hepatitis A (two doses)

By seventh grade:

All of the above plus:

Diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis (three doses, plus one booster within the past five years)

Meningococcal (one dose)

Eighth grade and beyond:

All of the above plus:

Diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis (three doses, plus one booster within the past 10 years)

Not required but also a good idea are:

HPV vaccine beginning at age 9

Annual flu and COVID-19 shots

A second dose of Meningococcal in 10th grade. Colleges usually require it for entry.

Two doses of Meningococcal B at age 16.

Rhema Colvin gets a flu shot at Hays' Tom Green Elementary in Buda before cold and flu season.

Learn more: When does school start in Texas? An ultimate guide to 2024-25 start dates

Where can I get these vaccines?

Your primary care doctor should have them. People ages 3 and older also can be given vaccines at local pharmacies. Call ahead to see what they have.

Austin Public Health offers vaccines for free or at reduced rates for children and adults who do not have insurance or have Medicaid or are underinsured. The typical cost is $13 for children and $25 for adults. You can make an appointment at 512-972-5520 for either of the clinics at 405 W. Stassney Lane in South Austin or the 7500 Blessing Ave. in Northeast Austin.

Austin Public Health also will be at the Back to School Basics event from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Sunday at East Austin Neighborhood Center, 211 Comal St., as well as other mobile vaccine events. Find the list at austintexas.gov.

Can I get an exemption from vaccines?

Children can get exemptions for medical reasons or for what is called "Reasons of Conscience." A medical exemption happens because of cancer treatment or another immune-suppressing treatment that would cause the vaccine to be ineffective, said Dr. Meena Iyer, chief medical officer of Dell Childrens Medical Center. Kids with medical exemptions have their doctor sign an exemption form, which is good for one year, unless the child has a lifelong disease, which makes the exemption good for the rest of their school career.

"It's a very, very rare situation when a child should have a medical exemption," said Dr. Elizabeth Knapp, a pediatric chief at Austin Regional Clinic

For reasons of conscience, such as religious or other personal values that do not align with vaccinations, parents can ask the state to send them an affidavit form at co-request.dshs.texas.gov. The form is good for two years only, then must be resubmitted.

There is a big caveat with an exemption: During an outbreak of a disease for which there is a vaccine, like measles, mumps, chicken pox, at the child's school, the school can prevent your child from attending during the outbreak.

Why do we vaccinate children?

Vaccines help prevent diseases, such as measles, mumps, diphtheria and polio, Iyer said.

These diseases come with days or weeks of illness, horrible side effects and lifelong complications or death. "We've seen those cases after measles or chicken pox with complications in the brain and body," Garza said. "Their quality of life will never be the same."

What happens if not enough kids are vaccinated?

"Any time vaccination rates are lower, the risk of illness goes up," said Dr. Danielle Grant, a pediatrician at Texas Children's Pediatrics in Spicewood.

Two years ago, New York state had cases of polio in an unvaccinated population.

In June 2023, Texas reported a case of measles in Hood County  the first in Texas since 2019. Measles is especially worrisome, said Grant, because if one person with measles comes into a room with 10 unvaccinated people, nine of those people will become infected, according to the World Health Organization.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: These vaccines are required for school in Texas, including COVID, flu
Chocolate can get a bad rap and, frankly, be seen as downright sinful (think "death by chocolate" and devil's food cake, both of which are delicious and wonderful). But it turns out, dark chocolate may truly have, well, a dark side.

Studies have detected higher levels of heavy metals in some dark chocolate, including arsenic, cadmium and lead. (Honestly, it almost feels like a cruel joke, considering we've been told for years that dark chocolate is one of the few treats we could enjoy without societal guilt.)

Scientists in a study released this summer tested 72 different types of chocolate bars for heavy metals over seven years, beginning in 2014 and concluding in 2022.

Some good news: More recent tests saw lower levels of heavy metals, so it seems like manufacturers are improving their methods. What's more, if the average healthy adult only consumes an ounce of dark chocolate a day, it's unlikely to do much harm. However, vigilance may be necessary if you consume large amounts of dark chocolate regularlyand also especially if you consume other foods, like certain seafood, that may also expose you to heavy metals.

Here's everything to know about heavy metals and lead in dark chocolate and what you can do about itas well as how to stay informed about your treats of choice.

Related: 'I'm a Neurologist, and Here's What I Want Everyone to Know About How Chocolate Impacts Brain Health'

What Risks Do Heavy Metals Pose to Consumers?

Heavy metals can pose serious health hazards, though symptoms can vary by patientand each heavy metal can impact the human body differently, according to Kelly Magurany, M.Sc., DABT, senior manager of toxicology at the National Sanitation Foundation.

"Lead exposure can lead to neurological damage, kidney damage and reproductive issues," Magurany says. "Accumulation of cadmium can lead to bone fragility and kidney damage. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, headaches or neurological issues. If you are experiencing symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional immediately."

Related: 'The #1 Change I Noticed When I Ate Dark Chocolate Every Day for a Week'

Which Types of Chocolate Pose the Highest Risk for Heavy Metal Exposure?

A study from Consumer Reports indicates that dark chocolate tends to have higher levels of heavy metals compared to milk or white chocolate.

"This is due to the higher cacao content in dark chocolate, as cacao plants can absorb cadmium from soil," Magurany explains, but noted that white and milk chocolate lovers aren't totally out of the woods, either: "White and milk chocolate can be exposed to heavy metals during processing."

"Any type of chocolate could potentially contain heavy metals, which is why food safety regulations are important," Ryan Marino, MD, medical toxicologist, emergency physician and assistant professor in the departments of emergency medicine and psychiatry at Case Western University, points out. "While the most likely source for heavy metals in chocolate products would be from the cacao plant itself (as these metals come from our environment), testing has shown that products can have higher or lower amounts of metals than would be expected based on their cocoa percentage alone, which is also consistent with the fact that metal concentrations in plant products can vary for many reasons (e.g. geographical location, manufacturing facilities and processes, etc.)."

As You Sow, a nonprofit consumer advocacy group focusing on environmental and social corporate responsibility, has a stellar list of chocolate brands and types and how much heavy metals they showed in testing throughout the eight-year experiment. Do note that the experiment wrapped in 2022, so these numbers may not necessarily be current, but can give you a general idea (and some peace of mind).

Related: The 13 Different Types of Chocolate You Need to Know About, According to Legendary Chocolatier Jacques Torres

Do the Benefits of Dark Chocolate Outweigh the Risks Posed by Heavy Metals?

You've heard this one before: moderation, moderation, moderation.

"Just like many sweet treats, dark chocolate should be consumed in moderation," Magurany says. "To avoid the risks of heavy metals, consider selecting a brand of chocolate that tests and demonstrates lower cadmium and lead levels."

What's more, dark chocolate overall may not be as healthy as you think it is, Dr. Marino says, but that doesn't mean it's badso don't feel guilty for indulging in moderation.

"While the goal is to avoid any amount of heavy metals like lead and cadmium that do not serve any biological functions, these are ubiquitous in the environment and end up not just in chocolate, but other foods, water and even air," Dr. Marino explains. "Consuming chocolate in moderation should keep this exposure source to a minimum, and is more important given how calorically dense chocolate isyes, even dark chocolate. Because of how calorically dense it is, when it comes to the reported 'health benefits' from dark chocolate from compounds like polyphenols, to consume enough for any effect would require consuming a massive amount of calories."

Related: Suddenly Craving Chocolate? Here's What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You

Can Heavy Metal Exposure Be Treated?

"Heavy metal toxicity can be treated with chelation therapy and supportive care," Magurany says. That can include hydration, nutritional support and kidney function monitoring, depending on the individual case and needs presented.

That said, be sure you speak to an actual doctorbecause heavy metal exposure is very serious.

"It is important to note that treatment for heavy metal poisoning should only be conducted under medical supervision, because the medicines used to treat this are very high risk themselves, and the diagnosis of heavy metal poisoning is not straightforward," Dr. Marino advises. "People should be aware that unscrupulous providers will offer testing and treatments that are not best practice and may not even be accurate or safe.

Specifically, board-certified medical toxicologists are the medical specialists who handle the diagnosis and treatment of metal poisoning. It is also worth noting that heavy metal exposure and toxicity is another scenario where prevention is always much better than the available treatments, which is why there is so much focus on regulating consumer products and reducing exposures to these compounds."

Next, Are Gas Stoves Leaking Toxic Chemicals? What to Know Before Your Kitchen Reno

Sources
BUCKEYE LAKE, Ohio  AUGUST 17: A marijuana plant in a flowering room, August 17, 2023, at PharmaCann, Inc.s cultivation and processing facility in Buckeye Lake, Ohio. (Photo by Graham Stokes for Ohio Capital Journal)

BUCKEYE LAKE, Ohio  AUGUST 17: A marijuana plant in a flowering room, August 17, 2023, at PharmaCann, Inc.s cultivation and processing facility in Buckeye Lake, Ohio. (Photo by Graham Stokes for Ohio Capital Journal. Republish photo only with original story.)

Boston Grunkemeyer lined up in front of Amplify Dispensarys Columbus location around 9:45 Tuesday morning and was the stores first recreational marijuana customer.

He doesnt have a medical marijuana card, but has anxiety and depression.

Its kind of nice to be able to go towards this if I need to, but also its gonna be fun just to be able to enjoy myself with my friends, Grunkemeyer said.

Tuesday has been a long time coming  57% of Ohioans voted to legalize recreational marijuana in November but there has been nowhere to legally purchase it. Until now.

Its incredibly exciting to be able to launch a program that is ahead of schedule, that will be thoughtfully regulated and will ensure that Ohio cannabis consumers no longer have to drive to Michigan or resort to the unregulated market, Ohio Cannabis Coalition Spokesperson Tom Haren said.

The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Cannabis Control gave 98 dispensaries the green light to start selling recreational marijuana by giving them their certificates of operation. Ten Columbus dispensaries, eight Cincinnati dispensaries, and five Cleveland dispensaries received their certificates of operation on Tuesday.

Amplify Dispensary in Columbus prepares for the first day of recreational marijuana sales on August 6.

However, the issuance of COOs does not necessarily mean non-medical sales will begin immediately at every dispensary, as each licensee must determine when they will start sales based on factors including staffing, stock and other business considerations, the DCC said in a statement.

The DCC plans on awarding certificates of operations to all the remaining eligible dispensaries later this week, according to the division.

Certificates are issued roughly in the order when completed applications were received by the division and when compliances were fulfilled, according to the division.

Recreational sales are actually ahead of schedule since the division had until Sept. 7 to approve or deny a license application.

A big reason we were able to get to this point ahead of the Sept. 7 deadline was due to the foundation laid through the states existing Medical Marijuana Control Program, DCC Superintendent James Canepa said in a statement. Since existing licensees had already met stringent requirements of that program, we anticipated this process to be rather smooth. They had already undergone many of the comprehensive checks as part of that process.

Amplify Dispensary

Jerika Tieman was excited to be able to buy weed without needing a medical marijuana card.

Its been a long time coming, she said, standing outside Amplify before the store opened.

She previously had a medical marijuana card but didnt renew it due to costs. The registration fee for medical marijuana was eliminated earlier this year, but it was previously $50, DCC spokesperson James Crawford said in an email.

It is a hugely monumental day, said Amplifys Digital Brand Manager Cole Wallis. Were part of a change, and a change for good, which feels super, and were happy to be a part of it. Im just excited to see it unfold.

They doubled their staff at their Columbus location in anticipation for recreational sales to start, and have two other locations in Cleveland Heights and in Bedford.

Trulieve

Trulieve expected to see between 500-600 people at one of their Columbus locations on Tuesday  about triple their average number, said Nick Rassler, their director of state operations.

Trulieve has three locations in Ohio  two in the Columbus-area and one near Dayton.

They normally open around nine or ten in the morning, but opened their doors at 7 a.m. this morning. Their line started forming at 6:30 a.m.

Its a huge deal for the industry as well and just cannabis in general, Rassler said. Theres people who just didnt have a qualifying condition, but may have still had a need for the product. Its a great alternative for them, it helps them feel the way they want to feel.

Medical Marijuana Program

Both Amplify and Trulieve are prioritizing their medical marijuana patients and had different lines for medical and non-medical customers.

Medical marijuana patients dont have to pay excise tax on the product.

I would like to see it coexist peacefully, which I think we can get to that point, Amplify Columbus General Manager Alissa Baker said.

Haren said there will be enough medical marijuana supply to meet demand.

By rule, the supply side will be there to match the demand, whatever it is, he said. If the demand shrinks, then you know, there will be less inventory, sort of held for medical patients. But if the demand stays where it is, we will continue to have product at dispensaries in order to meet that demand. And so its flexible from a regulatory perspective.

Follow OCJ Reporter Megan Henry on Twitter.

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AUGUSTA, Ga (WJBF)- The Georgia Red Cross is mobilizing to help those impacted by tropical storm Debby.

More than 500 volunteers from across the United States are in Georgia, Florida and the Carolinas, responding to the disaster. Many are using Augusta as a home base to organize the relief effort.

We have everyone coming in here. They meet here first, and then we all gather together and decide, wheres the area of greatest need? Where do we need to be? Whats going on? Because it changes minute by minute, day by day with the storm, said local Red Cross Director, Susan Everitt.

Screven County EMA issues warning to residents about county roads

The Red Cross works with local partners to provide aid to victims of fires and natural disasters.

In this disaster, weve had so many partners in the CSRA step up to help out and offer their help. Golden Harvest. The United Way. Trinity on the Hill is to house some of our staff if they need to be. Fat Mans has been providing food. Augusta Tech provided some locations. It goes on and on and on and on. And its just, you know, Ive always loved living in the CSRA, but when times like this, it really makes me even more grateful to be a part of this incredibly giving community, said Everitt.

Everitt added that the organization needs more help as it works to help the victims of tropical storm Debby.

Fallen trees, washed out dirt roads on Tuesday in Bamberg County

One, they can volunteer time. We need so many volunteers, not only in major disaster, but every single day. We need people to donate blood, particularly in a disaster. So many blood drives are canceled, and yet the need for blood still remains so great. And then, of course, to support us financially, because all of that money is really used to help with the massive amount of responses that were doing in this disaster, she explained.

For more information on how to volunteer or donate to the Red Cross, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) OR go to www.redcross.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 WJBF.
Remembering the longest journey to Auschwitz  the deportation of Rhodes Jews decimated a small but vibrant community with centuries of Mediterranean history

In the Old Town of Rhodes, a picturesque tourist destination in the Aegean Sea, stands a monument to a dark period in the islands past. In the former Djuderia, the Jewish quarter, a marble obelisk commemorates the deportation of the islands small but vibrant Sephardic Jewish community to Auschwitz-Birkenau on July 23, 1944.

The 1,700 Jews of Rhodes had the misfortune not only of experiencing deportation late in the war, when Allied victory was almost in sight, but also of enduring the longest journey of any Jewish community sent to Auschwitz  a treacherous voyage that lasted 24 days.

In July 2024, 80 years after the tragic deportation, scholars, government officials, community leaders and Jews from Rhodes and their descendants  known as Rhodeslis  gathered on the island, which has been part of Greece since 1947, for a week of commemorations. I participated as a historian from Seattle  home to a large Rhodesli community  and as chair of the University of Washingtons Sephardic Studies Program.

The contemporary monument to victims from the island of Rhodes. Yywilk/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

The fate of the Jews on this remote island is testament to the scale and reach of the Holocaust: how the genocide of Jews remained a Nazi priority to the end, and the range of Jewish cultures decimated during the war. The Holocaust destroyed not only Yiddish culture of Eastern Europe, but also Ladino culture of the eastern Mediterranean.

Ottoman echoes

Like many Jewish communities in the eastern Mediterranean, the Jews of Rhodes are Sephardic Jews, whose forebears were expelled from Spain in 1492 and settled in the Ottoman Empire.

While a Jewish presence on Rhodes dates to antiquity, around the second century B.C.E., the main Sephardic population emerged after the Ottomans conquered the island in 1522. Under the Ottoman Empires Sunni Muslim rulers, Jews on Rhodes paid special taxes in exchange for maintaining their own institutions, rabbinic traditions and Sephardic language, known as Ladino or Judeo-Spanish.

A 15th century woodcut depicting Rhodes, by Bernhard von Breydenbach. Erhard Reuwich/Wikimedia Commons

In 1840, an economic dispute about the trade in natural sea sponges tested relationships among the islands communities. With the support of European consuls, Greek Orthodox Christians on the island incited violence by promulgating a blood libel: the antisemitic accusation that Jews use the blood of Christian children for ritual purposes. But the Ottoman sultan intervened, affirmed the blood libel was false and restored calm.

In 1912, the Italians conquered the Dodecanese Islands, of which Rhodes is the largest. Still, Jews maintained cordial relations with their Muslim neighbors. Auschwitz survivor Samuel Modiano recalled that his father spoke Turkish with his Muslim neighbors, whereas relations with local Christians remained decidedly thornier.

These dynamics help explain why a Torah scroll featured in the Djuderias renovated Jewish museum survived the Nazi occupation due to the intervention of the local Mufti, a Muslim religious leader, who hid the Torah in a local mosque.

Italian paradoxes

Life transformed radically for the islands 4,300 Jews under Italian control, which lasted from 1912 to 1943. Italy saw Ladino as a Romance language, like Italian, and therefore considered the Jews natural partners in spreading Italianness in the region. In 1928, once Benito Mussolini had risen to power, the fascist government established a prominent rabbinical seminary on Rhodes, to which students flocked from across the Mediterranean.

But if Italian fascism appeared to contribute to the flourishing of the islands Jews, it also contributed to their downfall.

In 1938, Mussolini followed Adolf Hitlers lead by introducing his own antisemitic Racial Laws. The laws defined Jews as a separate, inferior race; banned intermarriage; and excluded Jews from military, government and professional positions, as well as public schools.

Modiano, who played a central role in the recent commemorations, recalled the humiliation of being expelled from school: That day I lost my innocence. In the morning I woke up as a boy. At night I went to sleep as a Jew.

As part of a broader Italianization campaign, the laws also expelled Jews who had arrived on Rhodes after 1919. Many Jews on the island had previously held Ottoman nationality, and Turkey was just 10 miles away. But as part of its own nationalization project, the Turkish republic denied them permission to repatriate.

In letters to relatives in Seattle, Clara Barkey, whose father was originally from Aydin, Turkey, likened her familys expulsion in 1938 to the exile of her forebears from Spain in 1492. Barkey ultimately secured passage to Tangier, Morocco, one of the few places willing to accept Jews, given immigration quotas in places like the United States.

Others joined Rhodesli diaspora communities in places like Argentina, Belgium and what are now the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe.

Destruction

For the 1,000 Jews forced to leave Rhodes in the late 1930s, the expulsion was a blessing in disguise. The Jews who remained could not fathom the fate that would befall them.

Jewish residents are humiliated in a public square during a roundup in Salonica, Greece, in 1942. German Federal Archives via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

In September 1943, after Italy surrendered to the Allies, German forces invaded the island. But for 10 months, the Nazis did not implement new anti-Jewish measures. On Rhodes, Jews did not face ghettoization, nor were they forced to wear the yellow star. By the following summer, the tide of the war was turning in the Allies favor.

Nevertheless, the Third Reich made plans to extend the Final Solution to the Dodecanese. On July 20, 1944, SS officers corralled most of the islands Jews into a makeshift concentration camp. The pretense was an identity document check, a trick that sealed their fate. Yet the local Turkish consul, Selahattin Ulkumen, managed to exempt more than 40 Jews who were, or whom he claimed to be, citizens of neutral Turkey.

The SS packed the islands Jews into cargo holds of three ships used to transport livestock. En route to mainland Greece, the ships stopped to collect 85 Jews from the island of Kos and continued to the port of Athens. With little food and water, several prisoners died during the week at sea, and their bodies were thrown overboard.

In Athens, the Rhodeslis followed the rail path previously trodden by Greeces 60,000 Jews  including the countrys largest Sephardic Jewish community, in Salonica. As the transport from Rhodes neared Auschwitz, the U.S. bombed nearby chemical plants and refineries  but never the railroads, gas chambers or crematoria. Only 150 Rhodeslis survived Auschwitz.

Samuel Modiano, one of the few survivors. Fcarbonara/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

The Third Reichs decision to liquidate the Jews of Rhodes so late in the war underscores the extent of Hitlers fixation on the mechanized mass murder of Jews, despite the cost to the war effort. Nazis allocated their dwindling resources to deport small Jewish communities on the fringes of Europe, even as the British bombarded Rhodes, and even as the Nazi occupation would collapse within six weeks. As survivor Stella Levi uncannily recalled, It would have been simpler to murder us all here.

The 2024 commemoration events on Rhodes paid homage to the victims of the Holocaust  no Jews with prewar roots on the island remain there today. But they also honored the communitys traditions, cuisine and spirit, kept alive among Rhodeslis in diaspora who made the pilgrimage to their ancestral island  an island of memory.

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: Devin Naar, University of Washington

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Devin Naar 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.
Riots have spread across the country, leading to more than 400 arrests, during 10 days of civil disorder - Getty Images

Social media companies should act now to remove harmful online content about rioting, the regulator Ofcom has warned.

The Government has accused social media companies of fuelling the protests, which were prompted by false claims that the suspect in the killing of three girls in Southport was an asylum seeker.

Riots have since spread across the country, leading to more than 400 arrests during 10 days of civil disorder. Police are braced for more than 100 far-Right demonstrations and 30 counter-protests on Wednesday.

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Gill Whitehead, Ofcoms group director for online safety, called for tougher action to stop posts that stir up hatred and provoke violence.

She said: In a few months, new safety duties under the Online Safety Act will be in place, but you can act now  there is no need to wait to make your sites and apps safer for users.

Under Ofcoms regulations that pre-date the Online Safety Act, UK-based video-sharing platforms must protect their users from videos likely to incite violence or hatred.

We therefore expect video-sharing platforms to ensure their systems and processes are effective in anticipating and responding to the potential spread of harmful video material stemming from the recent events.

Under current laws, it is already illegal to incite violence online. Once the Online Safety Act is implemented, firms could be fined up to 18 million or their executives could face criminal action if they fail to comply with requirements to keep people safe.

The new law is yet to be implemented, with Ofcom consulting on the exact specifics of what will be required.

Ms Whitehead also called for action on any online posts which break laws which are already in place.

It comes after Elon Musk and Sir Keir Starmer clashed after the tech boss claimed that Britain was heading for civil war

In a comment on his social media site about the violence, Mr Musk said civil war is inevitable  a remark that was explicitly rejected by the Prime Ministers official spokesman, who said there was no justification for it.

He has also criticised Sir Keir a number of times, including dubbing him two-tier Keir in a nod to allegations British police handle different types of protests or riots differently. Police chiefs have dismissed the two-tier claim as nonsense.

Senior government figures have previously accused far-Right thugs and Russian-linked online sites of whipping up violence on the internet.

Sir Keir said: Whether directly or those whipping up this action online, and then running away themselves.

This is not protest. It is organised, violent thuggery. And it has no place on our street or online.

Angela Rayner warned social media users not to 'spread hate' online - Christopher Furlong/REUTERS

Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, warned people not to spread online misinformation when asked for her views on Mr Musks posts.

Ms Rayner said on Wednesday: All social media companies have responsibilities as well to deal with fake news. Weve seen a lot of fake information being shared on online platforms, weve seen a lot of hate.

People have a responsibility to not conduct themselves and to amplify that but actually to deal with the online misinformation. But also not to spread that hate. We dont want to see that, whether thats online or offline. 

In Birmingham, hundreds of Muslims, including men in balaclavas and masks, formed a protective ring around a local mosque and shops on Monday amid rumours of a planned march by the far Right.

Peter Kyle, the Science Secretary, has held one-on-one talks with executives from X, formerly Twitter, YouTube, Meta, Google and TikTok about the spread of hateful misinformation and incitement about the riots.

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Rep. Cori Bush, member of the progressive squad of House lawmakers on Capitol Hill, lost her Democratic primary Tuesday in Missouri. Bush is the second squad member to lose a primary this year. File Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Rep. Cori Bush, member of the progressive "squad" of House lawmakers on Capitol Hill, lost her Democratic primary Tuesday in Missouri. Bush is the second squad member to lose a primary this year as Democrats split over Israel.

Bush, a second-term lawmaker, lost her primary in Missouri's 1st Congressional District to St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell, NBC News, CNN and The New York Times projected Tuesday night.

While Bush has not issued a statement, Bell -- who had been backed by a major pro-Israel group -- acknowledged his primary win Tuesday night by saying he was "deeply honored and humbled by the trust the people of this district have placed in me."

In June, fellow squad member Rep. Jamaal Bowman lost his primary in New York to George Latimer, 70, who entered the race to support local Jewish leaders who were angry at Bowman over his anti-Israel rhetoric.

Bowman's race and loss was the most expensive House of Representatives primary in history, with nearly $25 million spent by various groups, including the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., and Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., leave the House of Representatives after the last votes of the week at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC on September 14, 2023. Bowman lost his 2024 primary in New York in June. Omar is expected to face a tough challenge in next week's primary in Minnesota. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Bush's criticism of Israel also drew millions of dollars into her primary race, making it one of the highest profile races of Tuesday's primaries being held in Missouri, Michigan, Kansas and Washington.

Bush was the first member of Congress to call for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, nine days after the Oct. 7 attack, and has accused Israel of committing genocide in its ongoing war in Gaza.

Rep. Rashida Tlaib was uncontested in her Democratic primary Tuesday in Michigan, as other squad members New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Pennsylvania Rep. Summer Lee fended off similar challenges in their primaries earlier this year.

Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar is expected to face a tough primary challenge in Minnesota next week against Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels.
Editor's note: The court has yet to hear the motion to dismiss the $100 million lawsuit against Robert Comstock, a Colorado Springs police officer. Other updates have been made to the story for clarification.

A $100 million lawsuit filed against a Colorado Springs police officer for his alleged excessive use of force that left a man paralyzed after a chase is headed for a trial, although it could still be dismissed.

Jacob Root, 31, is suing Officer Robert Comstock for using a Taser two years ago on him during a foot chase, which broke Roots neck and paralyzed him from the waist down.

A motion to dismiss the case was filed by City Attorney Brian Stewart, who is representing Comstock and the city of Colorado Springs, according to court documents. The motion, which is still pending, would make the case moot.

Root is being represented by national civil rights attorney Harry Daniels, whose law firm is based in Georgia, and Salida-based attorney Tyler Jolly. They are seeking damages from Comstock in his individual capacity and not from the Police Department, according to the lawsuit.

Root, Daniels and Jolly gathered at the Alfred A. Arraj U.S. Courthouse in Denver to schedule a potential timeline for the case if the motion is denied.

On May 16, 2022, officers working in a multi-agency auto theft task force found Root driving a stolen car to a Kum & Go gas station on Airport Road after he had previously eluded officers, according to police records. Root fled when officers approached him, prompting a brief chase.

Just before Root ran into the street, bodycam footage shows Comstock shocking him in the back with the Taser, causing him to fall face-first into the street. Injuries from the fall left him paralyzed.

Daniels said Comstock violated one tenet of CSPDs use-of-force policy by deploying the Taser while Root was in an elevated position, and violated another by not warning Root before using the Taser on him.

Officers should know how to govern themselves. They are held to higher standards than anybody else because an officer can take your life. So at least they should be held to those standards and at minimum, they should be held to the policies, Daniels said in a press conference held Tuesday morning.

CSPD Standard Operating Procedure No. 500 requires officers to give a clear verbal order before deploying a Taser or any use of force, but it notes the warning is not required when delaying the discharge would be unsafe, when the element of surprise is necessary to minimize the risk of harm, or is otherwise not feasible.

The departments procedure further states that an officer cannot use a Taser on someone in an elevated position or a location where a fall may cause substantial injury or death.

In the hearing to dismiss the case, attorney Stewart argued that Comstock warned Root several times by telling him to stop and get on the ground. Officers also fired a BolaWrap, a device that shoots out a tether meant to restrain people who are non-complying from a distance, which Stewart argued was another warning.

The task forces repeated efforts to capture (Root), the presence of multiple officers outside the convenience store and the recently fired BolaWrap should have sufficiently warned (Root) that officers would use force if he continued to flee, Stewarts motion to dismiss said.

Stewart also argued that the plaintiff did not clearly establish a definition of what constitutes an elevated surface when Root was stunned, noting the plaintiff doesnt include facts that show the slopes height, length or degree of incline, nor do they point to established law that defines and elevated surface.

Daniels told The Gazette that anything thats higher than the ground, like a step, is considered an elevated surface.

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That officer pretty much made a choice for me to be a prisoner in my own body, Root said in a press conference.

In the news conference, Daniels said the recourse he wants from the Police Department is better training, to hold Comstock accountable for his actions, and for Root to be given resources to help him with medical expenses.

Hopefully he (Root) can get the help he needs so he can walk again. Thats the goal, not that he stays in this position for the remainder of his life, but so he can walk again. But it takes resources for it to happen, Daniels said.

As of Tuesday, the lawsuit is scheduled to be a two-week trial in 2025 if the motion is denied. The city could also settle, which isn't the first time it's happened in a case with Daniels.

Daniels said he keeps coming back to Colorado Springs because of bad police behavior, which he hopes to help correct.

In May, the Colorado Springs City Council settled a $2.1 million federal lawsuit filed in 2022 by Dalvin Gadson Ochoa after he was beaten by CSPD officers during a traffic stop. Daniels was one of his attorneys.

The settlement was approved in a 7-1 vote.

CSPD internal investigation

In September 2022, Colorado Springs police completed an internal investigation, which exonerated Comstock, adding that his performance was consistent with department policy.

The report states that Comstock tried to minimize risk of injury by issuing verbal commands and announcing the possible use of force through a police canine but notes that the situation did not meet the threshold to use a canine, since they are prohibited from being deployed in cases of motor vehicle theft.

In the bodycam footage released by CSPD, Comstock is heard saying, Police. Canine, stop. Youre going to get bit.

If he had the time to use all of those syllables ... he could have easily said, if you dont stop, Im going to tase you, Daniels said in the press conference.

The report states Comstock further tried to minimize risk of injury by using the Taser before Root ran into traffic, which the report notes could have caused a crash, making him a threat to officers and others.

Standard Operating Procedure 500 outlines that officers and marshals are authorized to use conducted energy weapons, Tasers, if they have ground to arrest or detain the person and their actions are at a level of active resistance or aggression and law enforcement has a reasonable belief the person poses an imminent danger to themselves or others.

Comstock is a valued employee and is in good standing with the department, an announcement from CSPD said.

Comstock, who has been with the department since 2012, has been in at least one other internal investigation where he was cleared of another allegation of excessive force in subduing a protester during Black Lives Matter protests.
Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) lost her Democratic primary on Tuesday, shrinking the ranks of the Houses left-wing Squad and delivering another major victory to the pro-Israel and business-friendly groups that backed her challenger.

Wesley Bell, the St. Louis County prosecutor, defeated Bush. Since Missouris 1st Congressional District, which includes all of St. Louis and many of its northern and western suburbs, is overwhelmingly Democratic, Bell is all but assured of a seat in Congress come November.

Bells victory over Bush marks the second Squad member in recent months to fall to a challenger heavily funded by pro-Israel groups. Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.), who, like Bush, ousted an incumbent in 2020, lost his race to Westchester County Executive George Latimer this past June.

Justice Democrats, the left-wing group that backed Bushs first successful run, cast the race as yet another referendum on the power of big money to decide elections.

This race is about the future of our democracy and the soul of our Democratic Party, frankly, Usamah Andrabi, a spokesperson for Justice Democrats, told HuffPost on Monday. This is a question about whether we want to let a handful of Republican mega-donors dictate the outcome of Democratic primaries, or do we want to move forward to elect more nurses and everyday people to represent the communitys best interests.

Bush, an ordained pastor and registered nurse, indeed faced a massive fundraising deficit. As Andrabi noted, Bell had the support of some local Republican donors  and many national megadonors from both parties, through the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.

Super PACs supporting Bell outspent those supporting Bush by a more than 3-to-1 margin. Spending by pro-Bell groups included about $8.6 million from AIPACs United Democracy Project, $1.5 million from LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffmans Mainstream Democrats PAC, $1.4 million from the crypto-industry-backed FairShake PAC, and nearly $500,000 from the Democratic Majority for Israel PAC.

Bush made national waves with her July 2021 sit-in on the U.S. Capitol steps to draw attention to the expiration of the federal governments COVID-19-era eviction moratorium. Her action got results; President Joe Biden responded by extending the policy, though the Supreme Court stopped it a few weeks later.

Later that year, in a bid to shore up support for abortion rights, Bush spoke on national television  and in a House hearing  about her experience getting an abortion after being raped at age 17.

What St. Louis needs right now in their congressperson is not so much a vocal advocate, but a facilitator.Rev. Darryl Gray

Bushs allies  and she retains the support of many local elected officials  see her as an authentic tribune of the Black Lives Matter movement, which was born in Ferguson, Missouri, following the police killing of Michael Brown in 2014.

Unlike many other Democrats in Washington, Bush continues to embrace calls to defund the police.

Bell, who also got his political start during the Ferguson protests and unseated a more conservative incumbent prosecutor in 2018, has, by contrast, disappointed many of his former fellow activists. They fault him for declining to prosecute Darren Wilson, the police officer who killed Brown, and for not more rapidly reducing the countys jail and prison populations, even as he points to the creation of a conviction review unit and the expansion of drug diversion programs.

Everyone keeps saying they both come from the movement, said St. Louis Alderman Rasheen Aldridge, a Ferguson alum and Bush supporter. I would say theres somebody like Cori Bush, who was a front-liner, who was actually in the movement, and theres somebody like Bell who was using the movement as a stepping stone for another seat.

But Bush also had weaknesses that gave her ideological adversaries an opening.

DMFI PACs polling found Bush leading Bell by 16 percentage points in January, but still only getting 45% of the vote. By late July, the group had Bell leading Bush by six percentage points  a close approximation of the final outcome.

There was clear evidence in the polling, she was very vulnerable, said Mark Mellman, president of DMFI, and a veteran campaign pollster.

Bushs vulnerabilities included her vote against President Joe Bidens bipartisan infrastructure law. While she and the other five progressives who voted against it say they meant to pressure Biden to pass broader social and climate legislation, attack ads papered over those nuances to paint Bush as a party turncoat.

Perhaps trying to offset the impact of this vote, Bush erected signs claiming she had delivered over $2 billion to the district. But with an assist from DMFI, local TV station KDSK reported in June that Bushs team had counted virtually all federal grant and American Rescue Plan Act money that had come into the district during her time in Congress, the vast majority of which she had little direct role in allocating. Bushs staff later took down at least one of the signs.

In addition, Bush faces a Department of Justice investigation for improperly spending more than $750,000 in campaign funds on private security services from a firm run by a man who was her romantic partner and is now her husband.

Federal campaign finance law allows candidates to hire family members as vendors as long as they are providing an authentic service at a market rate. Bush, who says she needs private security due to the death threats she receives, insists that the business agreement is above board. The House Ethics Committee also recommended no charges against her in October.

But in leaked audio of a January meeting with some of her aides in which Bush pleaded for them to remain with her, she acknowledged the arrangement might look messed up to some people.

Ironically, former Rep. William Lacy Clay, who Bush unseated in 2020, elicited scrutiny for a similar practice, albeit without the justification of personal safety. His campaign had shelled out so much money to his sisters law firm for legal expenses, Bush was able to outspend him on television in the final two weeks of the race.

Like Bush, St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell came out of Ferguson's Black Lives Matter movement and went on to unseat an incumbent Democrat. Critics and allies both say he has blazed a less radical path than Bush since then. Michael B. Thomas/The Washington Post via Getty Images

Finally, Bush has been among the most outspoken critics of Israel in Congress, particularly after Israel invaded Gaza in response to Hamas terror attack on Oct. 7. She was not only an early advocate for a ceasefire, but has also accused Israel of genocide  a charge that remains highly disputed. And in an interview with The New York Times out on Monday, Bush expressed ambivalence about describing Hamas as a terrorist group, though her campaign later walked it back.

Would they qualify to me as a terrorist organization? Yes, Bush told the Times. But do I know that? Absolutely not.

Bushs stances cost her the support of Susan Talve, a progressive St. Louis rabbi who previously backed her and has strong ties to Black leaders. But they also unsettled some other allies who see her national profile as a distraction from the needs of the high-poverty, majority Black district.

Darryl Gray, a local pastor and social justice advocate who ran Bushs failed Senate campaign in 2016 and has voted for her ever since, is a prominent former ally now backing Bell.

As an advocate on national issues, she gets an A+. She has been vocal and present and 10 toes in around issues that all of us ought to be concerned about  from Palestine to housing, Gray said Monday. What St. Louis needs right now in their congressperson is not so much a vocal advocate, but a facilitator, a leader locally that can bring other elected officials and community partners to a table to address and hopefully solve local issues.

Jeff Smith, a former state senator and executive director of the Missouri Workforce Housing Association, is another St. Louis resident who voted for Bush in 2020 and is now voting for Bell.

Shes leaned into some of her more controversial positions instead of modulating her rhetoric, Smith said. A lot of people feel like shes not been a representative for everyone, but has rather been narrowly focused on the people who constituted her base in her initial primary.

Public safetys the biggest challenge that the region faces, he added. People have different positions for how to address it, but I would say the trajectory of the defund the police message is similar to what it is in other places: It peaked in June 2020.
U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin at her election night party in Detroit, Aug. 6, 2024 | Anna Liz Nichols

Updated, 11:47 p.m., 8/6/24

U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly) will be the Democratic nominee for Michigans open U.S. Senate seat in November after winning the Democratic primary on Tuesday over her lone rival, actor Hill Harper of Detroit.

The Associated Press called the race for Slotkin, 48, around 9 p.m.. With over 32% of the votes counted, unofficial results show she garnered about 80% of the Democratic vote, while Harper managed approximately 20%.

Slotkin celebrated with retiring U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing), as well as other elected leaders at the Hotel St. Regis in Detroit.

We have less than 100 days to knock on doors to make phone calls to get out the vote, to persuade a ton of independent voters and Im going to need your help. Were gonna run through the tape in November, Slotkin said.

There are deep political divides around the country, Slotkin lamented, running deeper still in Michigan, a pivotal battleground state in the fight for party control in the U.S. Senate, as well as in the presidential race. The stakes are high this year, but so long as Democrats participate and engage with those who wouldnt participate in elections, Slotkin said Democrats can win, returning the country to normal.

With our eyes fixed on the future of Michigan and our country, I ask you to join me. Lets send a message that for Michiganders, the truth still matters. That character still matters, facts still matter. Weve been through difficult periods in our history. We will get through this one, Slotkin said.

Harper addressed his supporters during the 10 p.m. hour and said that was proud of his campaign and the supporters.

He also said that weather was an issue in the election, as it rained during periods in metro Detroit and mid-Michigan.

No question we had the most momentum, the most energy. It was a question of turnout. The weather hurt us a lot, Harper said.

Harper said he doesnt see himself running for political office in the future, but will remain an active Detroit resident.

Slotkin will now face former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake), who won the GOP primary, as they vie to Stabenow, which is the matchup that pundits and politicos alike had predicted.

Booing erupted from the crowd of supporters when Slotkin began talking about Rogerts to which Slotkin responded, No, we dont boo.  We win.

But on the campaign trail, she had to contend with an insurgent campaign by Harper that questioned Slotkins ability to represent the needs of Michigans Black community, which boiled over last month when a planned debate between the two was canceled amid accusations of a lack of representation of a Black female journalist on the panel.

Slotkin steered clear of the controversy, merely saying she would instead continue to directly engage voters in Detroit and across the state. Her campaign has also emphasized her long list of endorsements among Black leaders across the state, including state Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), state Reps. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) and Amos ONeal (D-Saginaw), Jackson Mayor Daniel Mahoney, Saginaw Mayor Brenda Moore, and former Detroit Police Chief Ike McKinnon.

Fellow Democratic U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) was ecstatic for Slotkins victory, jumping up and down in support for her win. When it comes to attacks from other candidates, Stevens said Slotkin is the wrong person to go after.

Stevens said Slotkin was the one who made sure Michigans delegation stayed together and was safe during the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Like Elissa, Im not too focused on attacks, but I will say that when you come for Elissa Slotkin, she will take you to the floor, and she will take you to task and no one bullies her. No one runs over her. Shes very strong. Shes a fighter, Stevens said. And I think anyone trying to undercut her is just underestimating how strong Elissa Slotkin really is.

Slotkin, a former CIA analyst and high-ranking Defense department official won her first congressional race in 2018 in a Democratic wave, where she flipped a district that former President Donald Trump had won by 6 points in 2016. She has served three terms and currently represents the 7th District in mid-Michigan.

When she announced in February 2023 that she was making a run to replace Stabenow, Slotkin was instantly seen as the one to beat, having quickly generated a national profile on security issues during her time in Congress, along with being an outspoken Trump critic.

Stabenow is Michigans first and only woman to represent the state in the U.S. Senate and is the person, Slotkin said, that makes campaigns like hers possible.

Im stepping into some enormous shoes. Shes a small lady, but enormous, enormous shoes, Slotkin said. There are moments when even I take it for granted  that women can get into higher office, the stories and the scars that she bears for all of us so that I didnt even have to think about it when I decided to run, it wasnt even a question that a woman can run and she was the one who made that possible.

Stabenow said Slotkin represents the protection of democracy adding that voters cant let Donald Trump or his pick for vice president, Ohio U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, anywhere near the White House, adding that theyre weird.

We know that this is about making sure our shared values that we care about for our kids and our grandkids actually are protected and that our freedoms, the freedoms we have fought for, are protected in a strong, vibrant democracy, Stabenow said. That really is whats at stake, we know that and the good news is Elissa Slotkin understands that.

Slotkin has also solidified herself as a strong advocate for curbing gun violence having been the only member of Congress to represent two districts with mass shootings. Her district encompassed Oxford in November 2021 when a student at Oxford High School opened fire and killed four students, while wounding seven people. And then in February 2023 she represented the East Lansing area when a gunman killed three students on the Michigan State University campus, and injured five others.

We can help our children. This issue has me by the throat because of the violence in our communities, Stoltkin said. Mr. Rogers is not interested in the biggest killer of children in America, instead of talking about this issue and figuring out some sort of compromise way that the other side of the aisle can get engaged in this fight.  Hes spending this time dividing us, spreading hate, no hope anywhere.

Another issue sure to be key heading into Novembers Senate showdown with Rogers is reproductive rights. Slotkin told the Advance in July that Republicans havent stopped for one minute trying to continue to go after a womans right to choose in different ways, including trying to ban the abortion pill mifepristone, trying to prohibit women traveling for an abortion, and trying to provide legal personhood to an embryo, which endangers IVF and the freedom to use contraception.

They have not stopped, and because they havent stopped, its continued to be a salient issue, Slotkin said, adding that conservatives had a 50-year plan to get rid of the right to an abortion and Democrats need to organize and develop a 10-year plan to get it back.

Slotkin will attempt to continue the Democratic shutout of Michigan Republicans in the U.S. Senate, with the GOP only winning two of the last 15 Senate elections in Michigan, with the last one in 1994 when Spencer Abraham won election. He only served one term before losing in 2000 to Stabenow.

While the Cook Political Report has rated the open race as a tossup, that determination was made prior to President Joe Biden dropping out of the presidential race and endorsing presumptive nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris, who has brought a burst of enthusiasm into the Democratic Party that has translated into gains in both fundraising, volunteers and rising poll numbers.

Slotkin is already pitched forward on the money front, with more than $8.7 million in cash on hand as of July 17, while Rogers reported just over $2.5 million in cash on hand as of June 30, according to the latest fundraising filings with the Federal Elections Commission.

But with the lineup now set, both campaigns are sure to start attracting major fundraising hauls as the seat could very well determine control of the U.S. Senate.

Its important to look at history, Slotkin said, thanking specifically women of color of Detroit, where she announced her campaign for the Senate seat in March of last year, for supporting her and teaching her important leadership lessons.

Diversity is what makes Michigan great, Slotkin said, and what makes elected leaders great is what they do with the gift of leadership they are given by voters.

Today we have Republican candidates that are largely uninterested in actually governing. Instead of getting things done, they would rather wage cultural wars in every part of our lives, Slotkin said. Helping people which is the very mission of public service, its what you swear an oath to do, has taken a backseat to vitriol, to chaosWhen it comes to these candidates, I ask you to remember one fundamental thing: Look at what they do when theyre in power, not when they are looking for your votes.

Advance reporter Ken Coleman contributed to this story.
Aerial view of the Dorchester section of Boston. (Google Earth)

Greater Bostons homeless population is on the rise, with the second highest rate of homelessness among 45 large US cities, but a new report finds the Boston region is doing a better job of providing shelter than most of the comparable cities.

With families, not single individuals, accounting for most of the regions unhoused people and rates of homelessness higher for Black and Latino residents, recent changes to the states shelter policy could impact both the number of people experiencing homelessness in the state and their access to temporary shelters.

Its great that so many people want to live, work and seek refuge in our communities, Boston Indicators Executive Director Luc Schuster said, speaking at an author briefing on the Homelessness in Greater Boston: Trends in the Context of Our Broader Housing Crisis report. And when we welcome newcomers, it benefits all of us with increased cultural vibrancy, increased tax revenue, new customers, for local businesses, et cetera.

But, Schuster cautioned, homelessness is tied tightly to housing access.

Theres almost no lower cost housing available in our region for people who earn low incomes, or who arent working, he said. Regions that pair high demand with exclusionary zoning rules only allowing for expensive housing to get built end up creating problems like this.

Greater Boston has an estimated 801 unhoused people per 100,000 residents, according to the report conducted by Boston Indicators, the research arm of The Boston Foundation. Only New York City, with 1,056 homeless per 100,000 residents, had a higher rate of unhoused people than Boston. Both New York and Massachusetts have some version of a right to shelter, so the rate of housed homelessness in Boston reflects that obligation.

Based on counts conducted by local planning bodies, the Boston Indicators report found Greater Bostons homelessness rate spiked about 27% between 2022 and 2023. During the pandemics earlier years, report co-author Kelly Harrington said, homelessness rates dropped in the region in part because of emergency regulations offering benefits to low-income families and incomplete counts of unhoused people.

Greater Boston has some significant positives when it comes to homelessness supports, the report authors noted. Organizations like Pine Street Inn are national models for shelter care. Just 6% of unhoused people in Greater Boston lacked shelter in 2023, and the regions rate of chronic homelessness is less than half the national rate.

But the housing market pressures are creating challenges even for those with shelter, the report found. Residential overcrowding, a measure of extreme housing instability, is up 55% since 2006.

So while the fact that Greater Boston has low rates of chronic and unsheltered homelessness is relatively positive news, Harrington said, its undeniable that too many people experience homelessness in Greater Boston and far better would be if all those people had access to decent housing on their own terms.

Massachusetts right-to-shelter law, the report authors noted, has traditionally guaranteed shelter for families with children and pregnant women. In the face of increased shelter demand tied to large numbers of immigrant families in need of emergency housing, the Healey administration imposed new restrictions that went into effect Aug. 1.

Its undeniable that too many people experience homelessness in Greater Boston and far better would be if all those people had access to decent housing on their own terms.

 Kelly Harrington, co-author of Homelessness in Greater Boston: Trends in the Context of Our Broader Housing Crisis

These changes dont directly target immigrants, Harrington said, but they clearly prioritize longer standing Massachusetts residents over new arrivals. So while this is not a complete rollback of the right to shelter law we know that these new restrictions have forced many more families to spend nights on the street with no other options, and will inevitably lead to increases in the rate of unsheltered homelessness in Greater Boston.

Many of the unhoused families in Greater Boston are recent immigrants, the report notes. Black residents are far more likely to experience homelessness in the region than people of other races, which researchers attribute in part to large numbers of Haitian refugees fleeing political and economic instability in their home country.

While Black residents make up only 8% of Greater Bostons total population, they account for over half of its unhoused population, according to the report. That families comprise most of the unhoused people in greater Boston means young people under 18 years of age experience homelessness at much higher rates than other groups.

The picture could worsen, according to the report. Authors cited national reporting indicating that 76% of K-12 students without permanent housing live in overcrowded housing, meaning there are likely many more children and youth under 18 living on the brink of homelessness.

It all circles back to the severe housing crunch, researchers said. Rental vacancies are stuck well below the level of a healthy system, housing prices continue to rise, and zoning persists that limits deeply affordable or multi-family housing in many Massachusetts regions.

Advocates this week cheered the signing of a $5-plus billion housing bond bill, but the amount of units produced will depend on specific state investments, local cooperation with rezoning, and the difficult construction market.

Even with the recent rolling back of some key provisions of this law  and these rollbacks are very real  we still have done more than almost anywhere else in the country, Schuster said. Its good that, in the context of such a wealthy region, weve been relatively humane and provided shelter to many in need. In so many other ways, especially in terms of housing policy, weve pulled up the bridge behind us.

This article first appeared on CommonWealth Beacon and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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Reports of Israeli abuse of Palestinian prisoners concerning, White House says

Israel's military transports Palestinian detainees from the Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, near Israel's border with Gaza

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Reports of rape, torture and abuse of Palestinian prisoners by Israel's military are deeply concerning, the White House said on Wednesday.

"It is essential that the rule of law and due process prevail," said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre.

The Israeli military, which runs some detention facilities where Palestinian prisoners have been held, has rejected allegations of systematic abuse.

(Reporting by Steve Holland; Writing by Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Leslie Adler)
Logging operations on public land in Washington state. (Washington State Department of Natural Resources)

Democrats are at risk of getting boxed out of the general election in the Washington state lands commissioner race.

Two Republicans  former congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler and retired utility analyst Sue Kuehl Pederson  led following Tuesdays first tally of ballots. Herrera Beutler garnered 22.6% of the vote. Pederson, who ran for the office in 2020, was next with 20.3%.

Meanwhile, five Democrats were splitting the rest of the vote.

Dave Upthegrove, a King County Council member and former state lawmaker, was out front among the partys contenders with 19.9%. Patrick DePoe, who since last year has been the Department of Natural Resources director of tribal relations and has the endorsement of current lands commissioner Hilary Franz, had 13.2%.

Next was Allen Lebovitz, who has worked as a wildland fire and forest resilience liaison for the commissioner of public lands and as a state wildland firefighter, with 10.8%. Hes not held elected office and reported raising less than $4,000 during the campaign. State Sen. Kevin Van De Wege, had 8.2% of the vote and Jeralee Anderson 5%.

The lands commissioner oversees nearly 6 million acres of public land, including about 3 million acres of state trust lands that produce revenue  mostly from logging  for schools, counties and other parts of government. They also run the Department of Natural Resources, which has about 2,200 employees and is the states lead wildfire-fighting agency.

Businesses in the forestry and wood products industries, local governments that receive timber sale revenue, and environmental groups are among those with a heavy interest in the race.

Franz, a Democrat whos held the job two terms, isnt running for reelection, instead competing for an open U.S. House seat in western Washington.

The lands commissioner role has taken on a higher profile as the state has dealt with large and destructive wildfires over the past decade.

Another issue the next commissioner will confront is how to handle what conservationists have dubbed legacy forests  mature forests, with older but not necessarily old-growth trees. Activists have filed lawsuits and engaged in public campaigns to prevent logging of these tracts.

For Herrera Beutler, the race marks a return to electoral politics. She represented southwest Washington in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023 but lost a reelection bid in the 2022 primary.

In her view, the departments forest management decisions have become subject to too much political pressure from advocates who want to set land aside from logging  a move she argues could make state acreage more prone to wildfires. Shes emphasized that she wants to balance environmental priorities with rural economic needs.

Department of Natural Resources timber sale income totaled about $209 million in fiscal 2023 and the departments total revenue was around $474 million. Apart from logging lands, the department manages property used for farming and grazing, tideland leased to shellfish producers, and a limited amount of commercial real estate, including offices and warehouses.

Pederson is making her second run at leading the department. In 2020, she lost in the general election to Franz, securing about 43% of the vote.

In this election cycle, shes raised concerns about declines in the states timber industry and that forests are too thick with trees, raising wildfire hazards. Shed like to see forests broken up into more segments to reduce fire risks. She said that one of her priorities if elected would be working with community colleges and labor unions to expand the states forestry workforce.

Her campaign manager, Sam Cardwell, said by text Tuesday night that Pederson was humbled by the results of this evenings election.

Sue is excited to see the results come in over the next couple of days, Cardwell added.

Upthegrove, who has backing from some of the states leading environmental groups, has made legacy forests a centerpiece of his campaign, promising to preserve them if elected.

Hes the only candidate whos taken up the cause assertively. And he believes revenue the state would gain from logging the older trees could be made up by harvesting trees in other areas. He rejects the notion that clearcutting these forests is the best way to prevent wildfires.

This race is far too close to call, Upthegrove said in an emailed statement. While I am excited to be the top Democrat, I currently trail the two Republicans narrowly. Fortunately, there are still lots of votes to be counted, and I am optimistic that the later counts will trend in our direction given my strong showing in King County. He added: It will likely be a couple days yet before we know the outcome.

As a member of the Makah Tribe, DePoe would be the first Native American to hold statewide office in Washington if elected. He made a case that hed bring a unique perspective to the job given that he hails from Neah Bay, a rural community on the Makah Indian Reservation that is located near the northwest tip of the Olympic Peninsula.

Although Tuesday night his prospects were dimming, his campaign predicted the race will not be decided until late next week at the earliest.

Growing up on the Makah Reservation with just 1700 people, I never expected to be in a position to make history. I am beyond grateful to the thousands of grassroots supporters, he said in a statement.

DePoe identified climate change and wildfires as top issues the office of the lands commissioner is grappling with and said he wants to reinvigorate existing processes for managing land and other resources while trying to avoid getting bogged down in litigation.

Van De Wege, a professional firefighter, campaigned heavily on combating wildfires. He wanted to expand the states year-round wildland firefighting staff and boost firefighter pay, and hes interested in the state purchasing, rather than leasing, firefighting aircraft. A 2021 state law, House Bill 1168, commits $500 million over eight years to deal with fires.

Over a dozen firefighter union locals endorsed Van De Wege. But his chances of clearing the primary have all but evaporated. Reached by text message he said he had no comment on the voting results.

Upthegrove is the top fundraiser in the race, with $587,239 in reported contributions, according to filings with the states Public Disclosure Commission. Next is Herrera Beutler with $430,117. Van De Wege has raised $340,977, DePoe $220,829, and Pederson $29,492. Anderson reported less than $2,500 in contributions and Lebovitz raised about $3,900, including $1,500 in loans.
Utah has become the first state to institute a statewide book ban, prohibiting 13 books by authors including Margaret Atwood, Judy Blume, and Rupi Kaur in public school classrooms and libraries.

The move comes after the state passed a bill on July 1 that allowed for books with pornographic or indecent material to be banned. Utah has a Republican governor and GOP supermajorities in both its state House and Senate.



Six of the 13 banned books were written by fantasy romance author Sarah J. Mass. Twelve of the 13 have women authors. School districts as well as charter schools must now legally dispose of these books, which may not be sold or distributed.

The nonprofit free expression organization PEN America called the ban a dark day for the freedom to read in Utah.



The states ban will impose a dystopian censorship regime across public schools and, in many cases, will directly contravene local preferences, the organizations Freedom to Read program director, Kasey Meehan, told The Guardian. Allowing just a handful of districts to make decisions for the whole state is anti-democratic.

Banning books is a theme across a lot of dystopian fiction, for instance in Fahrenheit 451 and Nineteen Eighty-Four, titles that ironically could be banned next under Utahs new law. In real life, book bans commonly occur in repressive and authoritarian societies. That fits into a pattern with Utah Republicans, who have also proposed monitoring which public restrooms people use. Utahs extremism isnt unique among red states, though: In Oklahoma, the state is requiring that the Bible be taught in schools.



According to The Salt Lake Tribune, the full list of banned books in Utah is:



Blankets by Craig Thompson

A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas

Fallout by Ellen Hopkins

Forever by Judy Blume

Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur

Oryx & Crake by Margaret Atwood

Tilt by Ellen Hopkins

What Girls Are Made Of by Elana K. Arno
Residential electricity in Nebraska could be sales-tax exempt, while other exemptions could fall

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, center, talks with State Sens. Fred Meyer of St. Paul and Danielle Conrad of Lincoln. Dec. 7, 2023. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  Residential electricity could be a rare example of a service to become tax-exempt, as more than 70 goods and services appear ready to lose their tax-exempt status to make way for Nebraska property tax relief.

The Legislatures Revenue Committee considered an amendment Wednesday to Legislative Bill 9 that would exempt the purchase and sale of residential electricity from sales or use taxes. Committee members said the intention is to exempt the 5.5-cent per dollar state tax, but not the local rate  up to 2 cents in select cities or villages.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the committee chair, said recent storms across the state have shown the necessity of electricity.

In eastern Nebraska, 221,314 Omaha Public Power District customers lost power after the July 31 wind storm, the utility reported. More than 2,600 were still without power as of midday Wednesday.

Electricity is definitely, in our world today, a necessity, Linehan said. This would also provide a source of tax relief for homeowners and renters alike.

According to estimates from the Nebraska Department of Revenue, taxpayers could save at least $62 million annually if electricity was exempted. The local sales taxes amount to an additional $18 million, plus $3 million allocated to two highway-related funds.

In the spring, lawmakers came close to exempting natural gas and propane, in addition to electricity. Those measures were part of LB 388, a property tax relief bill that was defeated.

Testifiers on Wednesday largely skewed toward those asking to add a broader exemption on propane and natural gas, though they took different approaches in how they formally declared their support or opposition.

Chris Dibbern, the Nebraska Public Service Commissions public advocate for natural gas ratepayers, testified in support based on the concept, encouraging lawmakers to add three words: and natural gas.

On behalf of ratepayers, I thank you for looking into saving every household in this state in this package, Dibbern said.

Jill Becker, a lobbyist for Black Hills Energy, opposed the legislation. She said it would pick winners and losers and ignore customers right to choose their power source.

Theres no policy reason to differentiate between electric and natural gas customers, Becker testified. I respectfully ask that you either include natural gas residential customers  or not advance the amendment at all.

Lynne McNally, executive director of the Nebraska Propane Gas Association, testified in a neutral capacity but asked lawmakers to consider that more homeowners in western Nebraska use propane for heating.

Rick Kubat, a registered lobbyist for the Metropolitan Utilities District, agreed on the necessity and affordability for customers to heat their homes during bitter cold snaps.

State Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, a committee member, chastised Becker for her odd position that would still help residents. He thanked McNally for being more careful in expressing her reservations. In multiple exchanges with testifiers, Bostar noted that natural gas is used in producing electricity and, similar to Linehan, noted that nearly all homeowners need some form of electricity.

This is about helping people, Bostar said at one point to Becker. Thats the goal.

Bostar said he believes the committee will soon exempt all utilities, even if that comes in stages.

Lynn Rex, executive director of the League of Nebraska Municipalities, opposed the measure if it included local sales taxes. While the League typically doesnt weigh in on the how to fund property tax relief, Rex testified, other legislation this special session could impact the ability for municipalities to continue providing necessary and desired services.

That includes the plan from the Revenue Committee and Gov. Jim Pillen to capture local sales taxes on newly taxed items under LB 9.

Rex said that would leave municipalities on the hook to refund businesses for expected local sales tax revenue as part of incentive programs previously approved by the Legislature  the Nebraska Advantage Act and ImagiNE Nebraska Act.

Bostar asked Rex to consider whether taxes on any utilities are the right decision for the future. He noted that the state would also be losing revenue if utilities arent taxed.

The Revenue Committee is expected to consider whether to advance LB 9 as its main relief package Thursday morning. Debate could begin Friday, rather than Thursday afternoon, because of delays in drafting the revised legislation.

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DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  Today is the first day marijuana can be legally sold for recreational use in Ohio. Dispensaries all across the Miami Valley have been working nonstop to prepare for the massive influx of customers.

After Ohio passed Issue 2 last November with nearly 57% of the vote, cannabis can now be legally sold for recreational use.

Cars lined the street outside of Truelieve Beavercreek to be some of the first to take advantage of the new law.

Local dispensaries begin to sell recreational marijuana today

Katelin Linville has lived in Beavercreek her whole life. When medical marijuana was legalized, she quickly applied for a medical card.

The dispensary coming into the neighborhood has been good, said Linville. The parkings a little rough sometimes. I really enjoy having something so close to help people out.

Truelieve Beavercreek Dispensary moved into its current location in 2021, selling medical marijuana.

Since the vote in November 2023, its been a nonstop frenzy of planning and preparation to be ready.

Its really been all hands on deck for our Ohio stores for Truelieve, said Hana Purcell, Pennsylvania director of retail for Truelieve.

Doors opened on Tuesday morning to a non-stop flow of people coming into the dispensary. Employees say the store had wait times as high as 20 minutes.

What Ohioans should know for buying recreational marijuana on Tuesday

Nearby businesses anticipated this traffic and the overflow it could create. One business n the same street posted signs barring unassociated visitors from parking in their lot.

If you do plan on purchasing recreational marijuana, make sure you have a state-issued ID proving you are 21 or older.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Rev. Jeff Hood prays for the condemned at their executions. His first time was in Oklahoma

As a spiritual adviser, Rev. Jeff Hood has witnessed executions in Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas and Alabama.

His first was at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester, on Jan. 12, 2023. Hood initially was banned from the execution chamber because of past arrests and worries he would cause a disruption. Inmate Scott Eizember and Hood sued, and prison officials relented so the execution could go forward. There were no issues.

So far, the death penalty opponent has been at seven executions  six by lethal injection and one by nitrogen gas. His eighth will come on Sept. 26, unless Oklahoma death row inmate Emmanuel Littlejohn gets clemency.

Hood, 40, lives with his wife and five children in North Little Rock, Arkansas, in a new place after an EF3 tornado destroyed their home last year. He grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. His arrests came at what he calls peaceful protests.

He became a Southern Baptist minister in 2006. He said he turned away from that church's rigid conservatism after a married mentor made a deathbed confession to being gay. He later studied religion at Emory University in Atlanta and Texas Christian University in Fort Worth. He describes himself now as a priest in the Old Catholic Church.

Also transforming was the 2011 execution of Troy Davis in Georgia and a 2016 Black Lives Matter rally that he organized in Dallas that left five police officers dead. Here are his observations from a July interview.

Q: You've survived a lot.

A: I actually had a crazy incident this weekend. I'm outside cutting the grass. Some dude drives up in a brown GMC pickup and takes his fingers in like the form of a gun. And he says, "Dr. Hood?" And I said, "Yeah." And he said, "I'm going to knock you off." And then he said, "Soon." And then he drove off. ... Ever since the Dallas shooting in 2016 I'm a fairly known quantity when it comes to these far right, like, radical kind of people.

Q: How did the Dallas rally change you?

A: Nothing can prepare you for going from a local street activist to close enough to see the events swirling around, bullets being fired, five police officers being shot and then four hours after that being on "Good Morning America." Nobody can prepare you for that level of just change in your life. Of course, I felt responsible. And I feel responsible every time one of these guys is executed. I feel like there's more I could have done. That level of exposure, it teaches you a lot.

Rev. Jeff Hood attends a meeting held by death penalty opponents at First Unitarian Church in Oklahoma City on Sept. 12, 2023.

Q: How did your mentor's revelation affect your beliefs?

A: It sort of changed from the God who is up there to the God who is here and the God who is with us. I began to see God and see Christ all around.

Q: So what made you a spiritual adviser to the condemned?

A: Troy Davis was a Black man from Savannah who was convicted of killing a white police officer. It really had a deep effect on my soul. I remember one of my one professors at Emory ... reading Matthew 25 and going, "Jesus says I was in prison, and either you visited me or you didn't." I thought about Troy Davis and other people on death row for the very first time as being connected to Jesus.

At that point in my life, I was kind of an Obama kid. A lot of millennials like myself had gotten so drawn into this "hope and change" moment that everybody was convinced that somehow President (Barack) Obama was gonna stop this thing. And I remember when he was executed being so just shocked, shocked that the system killed this man who I very much believed was innocent. We moved to Texas about a year after that, and I started writing guys on death row in Texas.

Q: You wear a robe and sandals. Is that for effect?

A: The reason that I dress the way that I do while doing this work especially in prisons is because I believe that to appear any other way forces me to fit into a culture of death that Im not interested in participating in. I am determined to not look like those who are about to kill someone.

Q: Talk about the execution in Alabama with nitrogen gas.

A: It was absolutely the most horrific thing I've ever seen. I watched someone be suffocated to death.

Q: What do you do in the execution chamber?

A: For the most part, I'm praying, reading scripture, making the sign of the cross, giving the person last rites and a number of other things. Whatever they asked me to do. And it depends on the state. In Missouri, I have my hand on him the entire time. In Oklahoma, it's part of the time.

Q: You've been arrested three times?

A: Three times, yeah. I can't get arrested right now. My job is to do everything I can to not give them a reason to keep me out of the chamber. I think that they're looking for an opportunity to keep me out. I am an incredible distraction for a lot of these states. I feel like I am there as a resistance, that by being present I'm standing there and saying this is wrong.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: So far, spiritual adviser Jeff Hood has seen seven executions
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. can appear on New Jersey's ballot, state's top elections official says

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., right, arrives at the Albany County Courthouse to fight a lawsuit he falsely claimed to live in New York state, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Albany, N.Y. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink)

TRENTON, N.J. (AP)  Robert F. Kennedy Jr. didn't violate New Jersey's sore loser law and can appear on the ballot as an independent candidate for president, the state's top elections official said Wednesday.

Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, who also serves as secretary of state, issued an order upholding in part an administrative law judge's determination just a day earlier.

The ruling means Kennedy can appear on the November ballot, and Way accepted his petition as an independent.

Way rejected part of Administrative Law Judge Ernest Bongiovanni's ruling saying that election attorney Scott Salmon's challenge to Kennedy was untimely. She found the judge was mistaken.

Kennedy's campaign praised the decision in an emailed statement.

"New Jersey is a perfect example of where we have defeated a Democratic Party complaint that had no merit," the campaign said.

New Jersey, like a number of other states, has a sore loser law that bars candidates who ran in a primary from running as independents in a general election. Bongiovanni's ruling follows another judge's similar opinion.

Way decided the matter under state law in her role as the state's top elections official

Salmon brought a suit in 2020 saying that then-potential presidential candidate Kanye West gathered an inadequate number of signatures. At the time, Salmon said he was a registered Democrat. West eventually withdrew his petition to be on the ballot.

In a statement Salmon said he believes Kennedy went afoul of the law and should have been kept from the ballot, but said he believes Way put reasonable guardrails in place.

Kennedys famous name and a loyal base have buoyed his bid for the White House. Strategists from both major parties had voiced concerns that he might negatively affect their candidates chances.

A similar challenge in New York questioning his claim that he lives in New York is unfolding in court there. He testified this week that his address is in the New York City suburb of Katonah.

Salmon sought to keep Kennedy from the ballot as an independent under a state law that bars candidates who run for a major party nomination in a primary from seeking the same office in the general election as an independent. Salmon sought to use the statute, known as a sore loser law, because Kennedy had filed with the Federal Election Commission in April 2023 to run as a Democrat; he amended the filing in October to begin an independent bid.

Kennedy argued that Salmon didnt have standing to sue because he isnt a candidate for president himself, among other arguments.
Asked about bear carcass prank, RFK Jr. says he once had a freezer full of roadkill meat

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., right, arrives at the Albany County Courthouse to fight a lawsuit he falsely claimed to live in New York state, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Albany, N.Y. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink)

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  It wasnt just the dead bear.

Days after Robert F. Kennedy Jr. admitted to taking a bear carcass from the side of the road and placing it in Central Park as a prank a decade ago, he said that has been picking up roadkill his "whole life and once had a freezer full of it at home.

The comment came as the independent presidential candidate was leaving an upstate New York courtroom Wednesday where he had testified in a lawsuit seeking to exclude him from the state's ballot in November.

The trial has focused on whether Kennedy improperly listed a residence in the New York City suburb of Katonah as his home address on his nominating petitions, when he has actually been living in the Los Angeles area since 2014.

But the substance of the trial has been largely overshadowed in recent days by a story, unearthed by The New Yorker, that Kennedy once put a dead bear cub in his car while on a hiking trip, drove around with it for a day, then dumped it in Central Park with a group of friends when he realized he had to catch a flight.

In a video posted to social media Sunday, Kennedy told comedian Roseanne Barr that he planned to skin the bear, which was in very good condition." He continued, saying, I was going to put the meat in my refrigerator, but did not specify what he intended to do with it.

Speaking to reporters in a hallway after court ended Wednesday, Kennedy was asked whether he picked up other roadkill.

Ive been picking up roadkill my whole life. I have a freezer full of it, he said, eliciting laughter.

Kennedy campaign spokesperson Stefanie Spear later said by text that he wasn't joking. She said thats how Kennedy  a falconer who trains ravens  feeds his birds. She added that he no longer has the 21 cubic foot (0.59 cubic meter) refrigerator, which had been in New York's Westchester County suburbs.

On the witness stand, Kennedy was grilled for a second day about where he lives and whether he should be kept off New York's ballot in November.

He testified that his move to California a decade ago was only temporary so he could be with his wife, Curb Your Enthusiasm actor Cheryl Hines, and that he always planned to return to New York.

Attorneys representing several New York voters have sought to demonstrate Kennedy is not a New York resident, relying on government documents and even a recent social media video in which Kennedy talks about taming ravens he feeds at his Los Angeles home.

In a testy exchange in the Albany courtroom, attorney Keith Corbett repeatedly asked Kennedy whether moving to California with his family and pets demonstrated his intention to reside in that state.

Kennedy balked at providing a yes or no answer, saying the reality was more nuanced.

Do you want a yes or no answer, or do you want the truth? Kennedy said.

My intention is to return to New York and thats the only requirement for residency, he said.

Under questioning from his own lawyer, Kennedy said he moved to California out of love for his wife and concern for her career.

I said I would figure out a way to make a living in California until we could move back, and that was our agreement," he said.

He said it was difficult for him to leave New York because he had built his life there.

The residence in question is a room in a home in well-to-do Katonah, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) north of midtown Manhattan. Kennedy testified Wednesday that he has only slept in that room once, citing his constant travel for his campaign.

Shown a photograph of the room, Kennedy acknowledged the furniture and painting in the room are not his, but he said pictures on the nightstand belong to him.

I think one of them is a photo of me and Mick Jagger, he said.

Kennedy's lawyer, William F. Savino, asked him why he didnt just rent or buy a house in New York in the last 10 years. Kennedy said homeownership is time consuming and expensive.

It snows a lot here," he said. The pipes break, the driveway needs to be plowed and all these other burdens that are associated with home ownership.

Kennedy, who lived in New York for years before moving to California, noted his father was similarly accused when he ran for a New York Senate seat in 1964 and won. Months before that election, his father, Robert F. Kennedy, rented a home on Long Island.

He was also accused of not being a New Yorker, he said.

The woman who owns the Katonah property testified Tuesday that Kennedy rents a room for $500 a month, but she acknowledged those payments began in May, a day after a New York Post story questioned the candidates claim that he lives in New York. Kennedy testified that he thought his assistant had been paying rent for the previous year and that he made sure payments started after the newspaper story.

The lawsuit against Kennedy is backed by Clear Choice PAC, a super PAC led by supporters of Democratic President Joe Biden. A judge is set to decide the outcome without a jury.

Kennedys campaign has said he has enough signatures to qualify in a majority of states, but his ballot drive has faced challenges and lawsuits in several states, including North Carolina and New Jersey.

___

Associated Press writer Dave Collins in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed.
The RIAA, villain of the Napster era, turns its sights on AI firms -- 'It's a lot more fun now'

Mitch Glazier speaks during the signing of the ELVIS Act to Protect Voice & Likeness in Age of AI event at Robert's Western World on March 21 in Nashville, Tenn. (Jason Kempin / Getty Images for Human Artistry Campaign)

Last week, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced the NO FAKES Act, designed to protect the voices and visual likenesses of artists and citizens in the AI era. One of the main groups advocating for that bill was the Recording Industry Assn. of America, better known as the RIAA.

The trade group, which represents record labels on policy issues, has been on a legal and legislative tear as advancements in AI upend how music is produced, discovered and used.

In June, the RIAA announced a lawsuit against a pair of music AI firms, Suno and Udio, alleging they bulk-harvested copyrights to train their models. Unlicensed services like Suno and Udio that claim its fair to copy an artists lifes work and exploit it for their own profit without consent or pay set back the promise of genuinely innovative AI for us all, RIAA chief Mitch Glazier said in a statement in June.

(Suno chief executive Mikey Shulman said that the company is designed to generate completely new outputs, not to memorize and regurgitate preexisting content).

The Times spoke to Glazier about the RIAAs work policing and cultivating AIs potential, the black-box conspiracies around Spotifys algorithm, and how the groups reputation as the bully of the Napster era has changed.

Read more: Major record labels sue AI companies for allegedly stealing copyrighted music

There's a lot of government and legal interest around music and AI. How would you compare this moment to the advent of file sharing in the '90s and streaming in the 2010s?

If you add the threat of file sharing and the opportunity of streaming, this is a combination of the two. Like file sharing, it is a major technological shift that will have a huge impact on the music industry. AI has been used as a creative tool. But the abuse of AI could be as big a threat as file sharing was. Companies view it as an opportunity much like when streaming services could provide legal alternatives and fan-friendly platforms. But if it goes unchecked for abuse by regulators and the courts, it could be a giant threat.

Musicians already rely on AI that fixes drum loops or recommends songs. Is the threat in synthetic music and abusing likenesses?

Generative AI is really the issue here. And it's nonconsensual generative AI  when you train your model and don't ask permission. It's when you dilute the marketplace because you can create 10 million songs a day. That unfairly competes with the music of the artists you copied. Synthetic music made from generative AI as a result of training on artists, and the voice and visual likeness issues where you're basically cloning artists to sing something they didn't sing, that's where it hits the hardest.

What were the particular dangers in Suno and Udio's models?

We suspected they had used established artists' music to train their model. They avoided legal consequences by changing it so that you couldn't put in a particular artist's name. They added new subscription services and monetized it very quickly, when we knew that they hadn't gotten consent for the input. The reason why we had to get out in front was because the technology was advancing so quickly and they're not transparent about their input.

How could you tell what music they were training on?

The output itself contained clumps that were recognizable. Jason Derulo famously tags his music by singing Jason Derulo. When the AI output does that, you're like, I think I know where that came from.

One of the key pieces in this case was a quote from one of the investors in the companies, that basically said I wouldn't have invested in this company if they had followed copyright law, that would be such a restraint. As these services rise and start to mature, by filing this suit, it's a signal to venture capitalists that it might not be so safe to put your money into a service like this if it doesn't get consent for its input.

Read more: Dead Beatles, Fake Drake and robot songwriters: Inside the panic over AI music

The RIAA has advocated for bills like the NO FAKES Act, which echo concerns that actors might see their digital likeness compromised or signed away. Is this something musicians should worry about too?

Absolutely. This is one instance where record companies and artists have stood side by side to make sure that voices and visual likenesses can't be used without consent. If someone puts words in your mouth using your own voice, what can that do to your career and your reputation?

We have sent thousands of notices to have platforms take down not just songs like fake Drake and The Weeknd, but countless types of cloning, misinformation and things that are funny but overall damaging. Weve had mixed luck with the platforms. That's why we are pushing so hard to protect voice and likeness rights federally, that would apply to all people. If somebody wants to make a replica with your consent, that's fine. But if you don't, you can go after them and get it taken down quickly to limit the damage.

Tennessee passed the ELVIS Act dealing with this. Its interesting that Nashville was a first mover on this.

I don't think it's an accident. A lot of country artists spoke up very quickly, because their fans demand authenticity. Not that other genres dont, but I think in country, there's a special appeal. Lainey Wilson testified for the House bill and made a great case for it. Randy Travis testified. Nashville has been front and center in passing legislation and for artists speaking out about this.

Politicians understand their opponents may clone them and make them say the opposite policy position that they actually stand for. That's how you get Marsha Blackburn and Chris Coons standing together on this.

Many artists are struggling in the current music economy. I can imagine a world where there's pressure from labels to sign those rights away.

There need to be guardrails. If you sign with a major label, you're not going to have some broad grant of rights forever. Lets say you're a 14-year-old kid and a manager says, I can get you a label deal, all you have to do is sign here and you sign away the rights to your name, image and likeness forever, including after you're dead for any purpose. Those are practices that need to be addressed. We worked on this legislation with SAG-AFTRA to make sure that there were guardrails.

I'm not too worried about fake Drake running up the charts. But streaming services might put a thumb on the scale for synthetic music they own. Does that worry you?

There's definitely going to be a transition. I wonder what's going to happen to the production music houses licensing their catalogs to AI companies, so that they can generate more music? If you're writing commercial music and getting a cut of whatever the company licenses, what does that mean for you? AI music is cheap. There's no human who has to get paid. Will platforms use their algorithms to point people to AI-generated music, because there's no royalty? I think that's a potential real problem for human artists.

Then there's the dilution issue. Are they going to allow these aggregators to automatically upload 10 million tracks a day that you have to compete with to break an artist? Which ones will the algorithms favor? If people like something, will they automatically produce more of it? Will they label it as such? I think these are big, commercial questions.

At the end of the day, fans are discriminating about having a connection to human artists. At the end of the day, the market is going to serve fans who want authenticity. If we can get the legal rights in place so that artists can protect themselves, I think fans will do the rest.

Read more: Opinion: What's behind the AI boom? Exploited humans

There are conspiracies about the reasons certain songs have taken off on Spotify. Discovery Mode is a point of contention too. Are there new pressures on artists and labels to give up money in exchange for visibility there, or fears that Spotify has its own agenda about what becomes popular?

I dont think major label artists would make that trade. But I also don't think it scales, because then it's useless. If everybody gave up royalties in order to have promotion, then its no longer promotion, because everybody's getting it. Its self-defeating.

But the push for transparency is incredibly important. We don't want to turn into an industry where artists can't get data about themselves to promote themselves, and record labels can't get data about artists to identify audiences. Nobody's going to give away their secret sauce, but the black-box issue is real, and it creates angst and feeds conspiracy theories. It makes people feel that there is a thumb on the scale and that its not fair.

Back in the 90s and 2000s, young music fans were aligned with tech firms against labels. Now, you see more fans allied against tech. How have those allegiances changed since youve been at the RIAA?

Record companies are not gatekeepers anymore. They don't control their own distribution. The control is now with the tech platforms. I think we stand on the same side as fans and artists today, because we have the same interests. The Man has changed, and the tech platforms are now The Man.

For my entire life, the RIAA was synonymous with suing music fans for downloading songs on Napster. Do you still encounter that sentiment about your work today?

It's a lot more fun now. The industry has changed, but our mission remains the same. How do we protect against people infringing the content of the artists with whom our record companies work? Now adding to that, how do we protect their name, image and likeness? The rise of streaming and the democratization of the industry has changed the perspective about the enforcement of those rights.

What conflicts and changes are on the horizon in music and AI?

How much human contribution does there have to be on something that's partly made by a machine in order for it to be copyrightable? We don't want Suno to say they own all the music generated by its machine. On the other hand, theres the new Randy Travis track, where AI scraped his voice so that he could create art when he can't sing anymore. Is that enough human contribution? I think that's a fascinating piece on the board.



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BLACK HILLS, S.D. (KELO) Highway 385 between Deadwood and Hill City in the Black Hills has been under construction for a while. Now Phase 1 of the project is complete and ready for rally riders.

Thousands of riders drive on Highway 385 each day to get the most out of the Black Hills.

2024 Sturgis Rally Tally Aug. 5-6: 2 fatal crashes

Its just, beautiful countryside. Theres just nothing prettier. The roads are challenging, a couple roads inexperienced people shouldnt be going on. But other than that its the most beautiful ride you can do. Thats why Ive been coming here for 28 years, Missouri Rider Dave Blystone said.

For a few miles the roads arent fully complete, but still accessible for those riding through.

The gravel was pretty packed, it wasnt terrible. I mean you have to slow down for gravel but if you have to detour off Nemo Road, that way to Sturgis is beautiful as well so who cares, its gorgeous, Wisconsin Rider Jennifer Melgosa said.

Hamsters USA raises $371K for LifeScape in Rapid City

For rally goers, having Highway 385 fully open for them to experience the Black Hills in all areas is a huge benefit to having to find alternate routes to travel through the hills.

However some still wish conditions were better, especially for newer riders.

They couldve capped that in some way, other than being gravel, hard gravel, or whatever you want to call it. Especially for the inexperienced riders that are, you know, somebody could go down, somebody could get hurt and thats just not necessary, Blystone said.

While the road is open to all from Deadwood to Hill City, riders are advised to use caution when riding through the gravel road.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Prosecutors warn three far-right thugs handed heavy sentences over riots are just tip of iceberg

Prosecutors have warned that the three far-right thugs handed heavy sentences over nationwide unrest are just the tip of the iceberg as the crackdown on rioters continues.

As the three men became the first to be jailed over the Southport and Liverpool riots, Sir Keir Starmer pointed to their cases as an example of how perpetrators of the disorder breaking out across the UKs streets will face the full force of the law after swift action from authorities. Prosecutors also warned those who stir up hate online.

Police are braced for more than 100 protests in 41 of the 43 force areas in England and Wales on Wednesday evening as far-right groups target immigration services. The Independent understands officers are also expecting more than 30 counter-protests, as 6,000 riot officers prepare for another night of potential disorder. More than 1,300 specialist public order officers are ready to be deployed across London alone.

The total number of people charged over the unrest in England and in Northern Ireland has now reached more than 140, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said, as police chiefs continued to warn rioters they could expect a knock at the door. The National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) said they expected that number to rise significantly in the coming days, as officers looked to make further arrests.

A Downing Street spokesperson said the large number of courtroom appearances and arrests  already more than 420  are just the start. They added: Our criminal justice system is showing violent thuggery has no place on our streets.

Liam James Riley (left) Derek Drummond (centre) and Declan Geiran have received prison sentences

In the longest prison sentence handed down so far over the far-right disorder, Derek Drummond, 58, was jailed for three years after punching a police officer during the riot that erupted in Southport following the fatal knife attack on three young girls in the town on 29 July.

Drummond, of Pool Street, Liverpool, previously pleaded guilty to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker, after he punched an officer in the face and was later seen dismantling a wall and throwing bricks towards police on St Lukes Road.

He was one of three men to be jailed at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday  alongside Declan Geiran and Liam James Riley, who were sentenced to 30 months and 20 months in prison respectively after Geiran tried to set a police van alight and Riley threw rocks and bricks at police.

Riot police officers push back anti-immigration protesters (Getty)

Riley, of Walton Road, Kirkdale, Liverpool, and Geiran, of Kelso Road, Liverpool, pleaded guilty to violent disorder following the riots in Liverpool city centre, with Geiran also admitting arson of a police vehicle.

Senior district crown prosecutor Jonathan Egan warned the trios sentences show how those perpetrating the unrest will be sent to prison for a long time.

He said: The three men sentenced today are the tip of the iceberg, and just the start of what will be a very painful process for many who foolishly chose to involve themselves in violent unrest. Many of those involved will be sent to prison for a long time.

People who have appeared in court following serious violent disorder during anti-immigration protests (Police/CPS/PA Wire)

Assistant Chief Constable Paul White added: I hope the speed with which the wheels of justice have turned makes it very clear to anyone considering getting involved in disorder that they could find themselves in a prison cell very soon after.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Stephen Parkinson has said one case of alleged terrorism is actively under consideration.

At least one man has also been charged with possessing an offensive weapon after taking part in a counter-protest in Birmingham.

Meanwhile, those arrested continued to appear in court on Wednesday, some reduced to tears as they heard they would be kept in prison before their next hearings. At least 12 people were convicted for their part in the disorder, with many facing jail.

Riot police hold back protesters near a burning police vehicle after disorder broke out on 30 July in Southport (Getty)

Nick Price, director of legal services for the Crown Prosecution Service, said: If you get involved in violent disorder on our streets or stir up hate online, you will feel the full force of the law. Our prosecutors are working round the clock to make sure lawbreakers can be brought before the courts without delay and face the consequences of their actions.

Referring to the disturbances near Southport Mosque on 30 July at the sentencing hearing on Wednesday, Honorary Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary KC said: The genuine and collective grief of the residents of Southport was effectively hijacked by this callous behaviour.

Prosecutor Christopher Taylor said Drummond was among around 1,000 demonstrators who clashed with police over several hours. Some 50 officers were injured, with damage caused to police vehicles, residential properties and the mosque. Chants from the group included England til I die, the court heard.

Keir Starmer says perpetrators will face the full force of the law (PA Wire)

Bodyworn camera footage from Police Constable Thomas Ball showed the defendant approaching a riot cordon line before calling s***houses, s***houses. Drummond was told to go back but then punched PC Ball in the face.

About 30 minutes later Drummond approached officers again and attempted to break through another cordon.

Following a public appeal, the defendant handed himself into the police and said he was a fool.

Stabbing victims Bebe King (left), Elsie Dot Stancombe (centre) and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (PA Media)

Lionel Greig, defending Drummond, said the defendant  who had 14 previous convictions, including for offences of violence  had lost his employment since the incident and wished to further apologise to police for his conduct towards them.

It comes after a man was jailed on Tuesday following disorder in Bolton on Sunday. James Nelson, 18, of Victoria Road, Horwich, Bolton, is thought to have been the first person to receive a prison sentence after the widespread unrest that followed the Southport killings. At Manchester Magistrates Court, Nelson was jailed for two months after pleading guilty to causing criminal damage.

Meanwhile, inquests into the deaths of Southport stabbing victims Bebe King, six, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, were opened and adjourned at Bootle Town Hall, where senior coroner Julie Goulding said it was impossible to adequately articulate the devastating lifelong effects of the truly tragic events of Monday, 29 July.
Riots test the new British prime minister in his first month in the job

LONDON (AP)  Just a month into the job, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer sounds more like the prosecutor he used to be than the leader of a powerful nation as he tries to quell riots that have swept the country in the past week.

The unfolding crisis presents his first major test since taking power on July 5.

Starmer has blamed far-right instigators for circulating rumors and organizing protests that have targeted mosques, singled out minority communities and featured Nazi salutes, racist rhetoric and attacks that have wounded more than 100 police officers.

Misinformation began circulating on social media last week about the teen charged with fatally stabbing three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class and wounding 10 others on July 29. The suspect was incorrectly identified as a Muslim asylum seeker, spiking racial and ethnic tensions that led to violent unrest.

I guarantee you will regret taking part in this disorder whether directly or those whipping up this action online, and then running away themselves, Starmer said Sunday after a weekend of violence that included a mob storming and setting fire to a hotel housing migrants. This is not protest. It is organized, violent thuggery."

The unrest has quickly overshadowed plans Starmer rolled out when he came to power last month after his Labour Party swept Conservatives out of office in a landslide.

The new government wanted to focus on getting a sluggish economy moving and fixing public services, such as Britain's revered national health care system, that have been hobbled by deep cuts following the 2008 financial crisis, said Patrick Diamond, a public policy professor at Queen Mary University of London.

It doesnt ideally want to be dealing with these kind of identity conflicts, Diamond said. "I think the protests, the riots are undoubtedly uncomfortable. Governments have plans when they come to office but they often get blown off course and this is another demonstration of that.

Diamond, who was a policy adviser to the previous two Labour prime ministers, Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, likened it to the crisis Brown faced when he found his agenda swamped by a flooding crisis when he took office in 2007.

Starmer, who was chief prosecutor for England and Wales during the last major outbreak of riots in 2011, has responded with a message of reassurance that communities will be kept safe and perpetrators will be harshly punished.

He has also announced plans to create a standing army of specialist police to deal with rioting and improve communication and cooperation between law enforcement agencies as mobs of protesters are believed to be traveling to different towns to stir up trouble.

One of the political issues facing Starmer is whether he's seen to be in control of events and is using the whole government in response, effectively providing public services and dealing with issues of community cohesion, Diamond said.

Its an important early test of the ministers, Diamond said. Are they in control of the crisis or is the crisis in control of them?"

So far, Starmers main political foes have been united in condemning the violence and there hasn't been much criticism of his response.

James Cleverly, the former Conservative home secretary, has said the government should have been quicker in its response to the riots. He has also questioned the purpose and need for the so-called army of police Starmer has called for.

Nigel Farage, leader of the right-wing populist Reform UK party, which only has five seats in Parliament despite winning 14% of the vote, has been widely criticized for making the divisive claim that rioters are subject to two-tier policing and are treated more harshly than others, such as Black Lives Matter protesters.

A large fiscal shortfall could complicate efforts to respond to the crisis as Starmers government pledges to pay police overtime, potentially hold night and weekend court sessions to deal with an influx of cases from the mayhem and make space in an already overcrowded prison system for more than 500 additional inmates.

On the day of the stabbings in the northeast seaside town of Southport, Treasury Secretary Rachel Reeves had announced what she said was a newly discovered 22-billion-pound ($28 billion) black hole in public finances left by the previous administration.

The dire state of the criminal justice system that the new Labour government has inherited from the Conservatives makes this difficult situation especially challenging in terms of a lack of available prison spaces, a really severe backlog in the courts that limits how cases can be processed, said Cassia Rowland, a senior researcher at the Institute for Government think tank. All of these things will affect the ability of the police to respond to unrest and disorder, and maintain law and order in the streets.

More than 400 people have been arrested over violence in more than two dozen towns and cities and about 100 have been charged. Few have been released on bail, as some judges have said they dont want to run the risk of a defendant being released and rejoining the fray.

With cases being fast-tracked for swift justice, which is how Starmer responded in 2011, some of those who pleaded guilty at their initial appearance have already been sentenced.

A man who punched a police officer in the face outside a Southport mosque the day after the stabbing was sentenced Wednesday to three years in prison. Two others in the mob got prison terms of at least 20 months.

Before the unrest began July 30, the government had announced plans to free inmates before their release date to make room in crowded prisons from next month. They may have to do that even sooner now than planned, Rowland said.

While an overstretched criminal justice system has the ability to handle a surge of cases in the short term, Rowland said urgent action is needed to prevent a breakdown in the future.

If people are, say, going out and looting or committing very serious criminal damage and arson, getting arrested and then getting released because theres nowhere to put them, that sends a pretty bad message about the ability of the police and the wider system to maintain law and order, she said.

The initial problem of stopping the violence will eventually give way to other political realities behind the disorder  in particular, how to deal with a migration crisis Europe faces as people desperate to escape flood, famine, war and poverty risk their lives on perilous sea crossings.

Far-right and populist rhetoric has been focused on preventing immigration, with protesters chanting stop the boats, the slogan former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak used in his vow to stem the tide of small, unstable craft ferrying migrants across the English Channel.

This is an outpouring of violence targeted at immigrants, said Anand Menon, director of the U.K. in a Changing Europe academic think tank. It plays into the fact that there is a section of the population that is incredibly concerned about immigration. So I think actually the real challenge for Labour is going to come ... around its ability and plans to deal with the broader debates about immigration.
Rivers may keep rising in SC from slow-moving storm for another week

Soldiers prepare vehicles tasked with various high water evacuation missions in North Charleston, South Carolina, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (U.S. Army National Guard/Sgt. Ana-Grace Catoe)

COLUMBIA  There may be a pause in the rain from Tropical Storm Debby, but Gov. Henry McMaster reminded South Carolinians the danger is far from over.

As of Wednesday afternoon, there were still no reports of fatalities or injuries from the storm, officials said.

Things have not been as bad as they could have been, although weve had a lot of rain, McMaster said a public storm briefing at the South Carolina Emergency Operations Center in Columbia.

One way to look at this is we are in the second act of a three-act play.

Gov. Henry McMaster holds a press conference at the South Carolina Emergency Management Division headquarters in Columbia on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (U.S. Air National Guard/Master Sgt. Megan Floyd)

The first act came Tuesday as the storm dumped rain on the Lowcountry as it headed to the Atlantic Ocean. The second act will come as the storm returns ashore Thursday morning between Charleston and Myrtle Beach and moves through the Pee Dee, bringing 3 to 8 more inches of rain to much of the state.

Then as the storm heads north, all the water it dumps in North Carolina will flow downstream to rivers in South Carolina that could already be overflowing.

Help your neighbors, look out for your neighbors, McMaster said. We know there will be a lot of cleanup to do and weve got to be very safe, because this is not nearly over.

Some rivers may keep rising until the middle of next week. Those of particular concern for flooding include the Little Pee Dee River near Galivants Ferry in Horry County and the Edisto River near Givhans Ferry in Dorchester County, said John Quagliariello, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

At least three suspected tornadoes reported Tuesday have been confirmed, he said.

Those touched down on Edisto Beach, Kiawah Island and Moncks Corner. There are unconfirmed reports of another tornado at Edisto Beach along with Isle of Palms, West Ashley and Ladys Island, Quagliariello said.

More than 6 homes have been damaged, with one destroyed, mostly in Colleton County. At least six businesses in Colleton, Berkeley and Horry counties also had some level of damage, said Kim Stenson, director of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.

As of 11 a.m. Wednesday, 83 roads were closed, said Transportation Secretary Justin Powell, who noted that 25 roads that were closed due to the storm have been reopened.

Two ramps to Interstate 95 at Exit 22 and Exit 33 in Jasper County are open again after being closed by flooding. A ramp off Interstate 526 at Exit 15 in North Charleston also closed Tuesday afternoon, but it was open again by 7 p.m., according to the Department of Transportation.

As of late afternoon Wednesday, the stretch of coastal South Carolina north of Folly Beach was still expecting a storm surge of up to 3 feet, according to the National Hurricane Center.

As of 11 a.m., Summerville, outside of Charleston, has experienced the most rain at over 17 inches since Saturday, according to a National Weather Prediction Center report. Edisto Beach, Beaufort, Mount Pleasant and Charleston all had upwards of 13 inches of rain.

Around 5 p.m. Wednesday, there were roughly 1,500 Dominion Energy customers with power outages, while Santee Cooper had less than five. Duke reported some outages in the counties that it serves. None impacted more than 50 customers with the exception of 67 customers in Greenville.

The City of Charleston ended a curfew Wednesday morning that had begun Monday night.

Several school districts in the Lowcountry had school closures on Wednesday, and a number of districts through the Midlands and Pee Dee had e-learning days, according to the state Department of Education.
Among the big political news stories of the week  Kamala Harris formally clinching the Democratic nomination; the selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate  was the bizarre tale of Robert F. Kennedy leaving a dead bear in New York Citys iconic Central Park, ending a decadelong local mystery.

As soon as it became clear to Kennedy that he would no longer be able to keep his illegal stunt a secret, the independent presidential candidate and conspiracy theorist went into damage control. He concocted a story that was clearly aimed at making his decision to dump the bears carcass more palatable to the general public.

But his explanation makes as little sense as the act itself.

Gordon Batcheller, who retired as New York states chief wildlife biologist in 2015 but spoke to HuffPost in his personal capacity, has followed the Kennedy bear cub story closely. He described Kennedys actions as perplexing, unlawful and wildly disrespectful of a wild animal.

Looking at the whole scenario, the word bizarre just leaps forward in my mind.Gordon Batcheller, former chief wildlife biologist of New York state

As a citizen, even as a biologist, looking at the whole scenario, the word bizarre just leaps forward in my mind in terms of behavior of this individual, Batcheller told HuffPost by phone on Tuesday. The thought that somehow doing this prank would be amusing or something  just bizarre.

As for Kennedys account of what happened, Batcheller said it sounds to me like a 4-year-old who was meddling with moms freshly cooked pies, got caught and started fabricating some excuse about his dog and cat and little sister and everything else.

Bottom line, its wrong.

Earlier this week, The New Yorker was on the cusp of reporting as part of a lengthy profile that in October 2014, Kennedy callously and illegally dumped the carcass of a young black bear in Central Park and staged it to look like the animal had been struck and killed by a cyclist.

On Sunday, a day before the magazine went to press, Kennedy posted a video to X, formerly Twitter, in which he confessed  to an often stunned-looking Roseanne Barr, of all people  that he was responsible for the decade-old mystery, chalking it up to little more than a harmless prank.

In Kennedys telling, ditching the bear cub in the heart of Manhattan wasnt always his intention. It was simply what he resorted to after a long, successful day of falconry  that is, hunting with trained birds of prey  a fancy dinner in New York City and the realization that he had an early flight to catch the next morning. In short, those commitments spoiled what he led his audience to believe were totally reasonable plans to salvage the carcass and keep the meat.

The 60-year-old environmental lawyer, avid outdoorsman and master falconer explained to Barr that he was en route to New Yorks Hudson Valley for a day of falconry when a woman driving in front of him hit a bear and killed it  a young bear.

So I pulled over and I picked up the bear and put him in the back of my van because I was going to skin the bear and it was in very good condition, he said, fidgeting in his chair. And I was gonna put the meat in my refrigerator  and you can do that in New York state, you can get a bear tag for a roadkill bear.

Looking forward to seeing how you spin this one, @NewYorker pic.twitter.com/G13taEGzba  Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) August 4, 2024

Before we get into the rest of Kennedys rambling account, it is worth noting that what Kennedy did is illegal in New York, regardless of whether he had a license, or tag, to hunt a black bear at the time, which remains unclear.

Lets say youre a hunter and you have a bear tag as part of your hunting license, you still cant pick up a bear on the side of the road, Batcheller said. You just cant.

Salvaging a roadkill animal falls under an entirely separate permitting process completely unrelated to hunting, Batcheller explained. The process requires individuals to first report the animal and then obtain a permit from either the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation or local law enforcement.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, or DEC, which led the 2014 investigation into the bear cubs death, told HuffPost that under the states environmental law, possession of a bear without a license or permit and illegal disposal of a bear are both subject to fines of up to $250 for the first offense. However, the statute of limitations for such offenses is one year, meaning Kennedy can no longer be charged or prosecuted.

DEC does not publicly release individuals sporting license information unless subpoenaed to do so or the individual authorizes their release. The agency also does not keep records of permits for salvaging roadkill animals, it said.

Kennedys campaign did not respond to HuffPosts requests for comment.

Independent Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., pictured here during an event in Nashville, Tennessee in July, confessed in a bizarre video posted to social media that he was the one who dumped a dead black bear cub in New York City's Central Park in 2014. Jon Cherry via Getty Images

Kennedy had an opportunity to do something good, to shine light on the many benefits of salvaging roadkill wildlife, which include utilizing meat that would otherwise go to waste and protecting scavengers, including foxes and vultures, that could also be hit when trying to feast on a roadside carcass. Dozens of states allow for salvaging certain roadkill animals, although permits are usually required, and some states have programs that collect roadkill for local food banks.

Batcheller noted that roadkill animals are also often of interest to conservation officials for biological data and scientific research.

When it comes to processing wild game, be it a deer harvested with a rifle or a bear salvaged off the side of the road, time is of the essence. It is crucial to remove the animals internal organs, strip the hide and cool the meat as quickly as possible to keep it from spoiling.

Taking a bear, which I would suspect was not field dressed  so now its just a whole bear with all the internal organs  throwing it in a trunk, its just going to be a bacteria factory, Batcheller said. The meat would be kaput at that point.

By his own admission, Kennedy did nothing to safeguard the quality of the bear meat. Instead, he stashed the animal in his trunk for an entire day  something no informed person would do if planning to consume it  before ultimately deciding to stage the carcass to look like the cub had been hit by a bike in the middle of the most populated city in the country.

I didnt want to leave the bear in the car, because that would have been bad, he said in the video. So then I thought, at that time  this was a little bit of the redneck in me  there had been a series of bicycle accidents in New York. They had just put in the bike lanes. A couple of people had gotten killed, and it was every day, and people had been badly injured.

I wasnt drinking of course, but people were drinking with me who thought this was a good idea, Kennedy went on. I had an old bike in my car that somebody asked me to get rid of, and I said, Lets go put the bear in Central Park and well make it look like he got hit by a bike. It will be fun, funny for people. Everybody thought, Thats a great idea! So we went and did that and we thought it would be amusing for whoever found it.

When the bear was discovered the next day, the story garnered national media attention. Police and conservation officials scrambled to figure out how the animal got there, with no success. Few found the incident amusing.

New York Police and New York State Environmental Conservation officers investigate the site where a bear cub was found dead under bushes in New York's Central Park in October 2014. AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah

For 10 years, Kennedy kept quiet  until he got caught.

Luckily, the story died after a while. And it stayed dead for a decade, he said in the video. The New Yorker somehow found out about it and theyre going to do a big article on me  Its going to be a bad story.

In the video, Barr and others are heard chuckling at Kennedys disturbing tale. One man outside the cameras frame says, I think its a great story.

Above the video, Kennedy wrote, Looking forward to seeing how you spin this one, @NewYorker

The story requires zero spin. Kennedy made a mockery of a well-establishedcode of ethics among hunters, which include obeying all rules and regulations, not wasting game meat and treating wildlife with respect.

While Kennedy wasnt hunting for bear that day, and one might argue that ethical hunting principles dont apply to recovering roadkill, he almost certainly knew better. His preferred method of hunting, falconry, is the most highly regulated field sport in the U.S., according to the Michigan Hawking Club. Kennedy is a licensed master falconer and a former president of the New York State Falconry Association.

If hes a licensed master falconer, hes gone through one of the most rigorous wildlife regulatory processes thats in existence, Batcheller said. Someone like Mr. Kennedy, a falconer, certainly knows theres a wildlife agency out there that deals with wildlife.

The New Yorker profile included a graphic picture of Kennedy with the dead bear. It shows Kennedy sitting in the back of a van, with blood stains on his pants, his fingers shoved into the lifeless cubs bloody mouth and what the New Yorker described as a comical grimace across his face, as if pretending the bear was biting him.

Maybe thats where I got my brain worm, Kennedy told The New Yorker, referring to a parasite that doctors apparently found in his brain.

New York DEC directed HuffPost to a page on its website about how to properly dispose of and safely handle dead animals. Among other things, it advises people to be careful of teeth, claws, bone splinters, or porcupine quills.

Along with educating hunters about how to properly care for and process wild game, Batcheller said wildlife officials in New York and around the country emphasize the importance of respecting the animals they harvest. The rules of fair chase, a set of ethical hunting principles developed by the nonprofit Boone and Crockett Club, calls on hunters to behave in a way that will bring no dishonor to either the hunter, the hunted, or the environment.

So what should Kennedy have done? Report it. Get the permit. Treat the animal with the utmost respect as a prized source of great game meat. Transport it with dignity. Do it right, Batcheller said. Theres a way to do it right.

If he was sitting right here, I would say, Mr. Kennedy, you demonstrated extremely poor judgment in what you think is amusing or appropriate, he added. Extremely poor judgment. I would tell that to his face, without hesitating.

Related...
Editor's Note: An initial news release from the Teller County Sheriff's Office incorrectly indicated that the victim of the assault had died earlier today. This version of the story lists the victim's current listed medical status.

A investigation is underway following the assault of a woman staying in a camper in Teller County overnight Wednesday.

The woman is reported to be in "extremely critical condition" by the Teller County Sheriff's Office, as of Wednesday afternoon.

According to Teller County Sheriff's Office Commander Sven Bonnelycke, at 12:43 a.m. Wednesday officials received reports of a violent assault against a woman and her dog inside a camper located outside of Cripple Creek in unincorporated Teller County.

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Officials said the female victim was transferred to a nearby hospital, where she remains in critical condition due to injuries sustained amid the attack. The condition of the dog is unknown at this time.

The Teller County Sheriff's Office alongside the Colorado Bureau of Investigations is investigating, a Wednesday afternoon announcement states.

Officials are currently processing the scene and conducting interviews.
A rifle-toting robot dog has become one of the latest additions to the ever-expanding array of concepts the U.S. military is exploring to help protect friendly forces from drones. Observations from the war in Ukraine and ongoing crises in the Middle East have provided renewed impetus for the acquisition of new anti-drone capabilities across Americas armed forces. Weaponizing robot dogs is also an area of growing interest within the U.S. military and elsewhere around the globe.

A Ghost Robotics Vision 60 quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicle (Q-UGV) armed with an AR-15/M16-type carbine is among the counter-drone capabilities being demonstrated at the U.S. Armys Fort Drum in New York as part of what has been dubbed Operation Hard Kill. The Armys 10th Mountain Division and the services Development Command-Armaments Center (DEVCOM-AC) are leading the event, which kicked off last month and is slated to wrap up this week.

Operation Hard Kill is a live fire exercise that will establish Fort Drum as the premier training center in counter-UAS [counter-uncrewed aerial systems] through the demonstrated capabilities of lethal and non-lethal systems, is how the Army described the event earlier this year.

From what can be seen of the Vision 60 Q-UGV taking part in Operation Hard Kill, the anti-drone configuration consists of a small turret on top of the front end of the robot dog on which the AR-15-type rifle is mounted. The gun has what looks to be a relatively large electro-optical targeting system (with Lone Wolf written on the side) on top with a large objective lens. This points to an infrared/thermal vision capability, something that is especially useful for finding targets in the sky. There is also a laser aiming device attached to the side. A GoPro-like video camera appears to be mounted on a mast at the rear end of the Q-UGV, as well.

A close-up look at the turreted gun on the robot dog being demonstrated as part of Operation Hard Kill. US Army capture

A video the Army has released from the event, seen earlier in this story, also looks to show individuals using tablet-like devices to control the gun on the robot dog remotely. Whether or not the complete system provides for cueing from offboard sensors is unknown, but some degree of automated targeting would be highly preferable in the counter-drone role. The SMASH series of computerized gun sights from Israels Smart Shooter is a prime example of small arms optics on the market now that offer target recognition and assisted aiming functionality, and that can be used in a remotely-operated configuration. SMASH variants are already being fielded to a limited degree by multiple branches of the U.S. military and their use looks set to grow.

The turret assembly also bears the logo of Johns Hopkins Universitys Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), which has a long history of supporting U.S. military advanced research and development efforts, including through rapid prototyping. The War Zone has reached out to APL for more information about this anti-drone robot dog.

The C-UAS-configured Vision 60 looks to be well in line with pushes by the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps to expand anti-drone capabilities down the lowest levels of their force structures. The War Zone has highlighted many times in the past how robot dogs offer ideal platforms for scouting ahead and providing localized security, especially in support of small units in dense urban environments, just like their real live counterparts.

In the counter-drone role, a robot dog could leverage its ability to get in and out of spaces that might be inaccessible to a human to help get a better vantage point or expanded field of fire to protect against incoming uncrewed aerial threats. This would also allow friendly forces to engage hostile drones while remaining behind cover.

None of this is to say that a drone-hunting robot dog armed with an infantry-type rifle would be a complete solution to the threats posed by uncrewed aerial systems in itself. The Army and Marines, as well as other branches of the U.S. military, are envisioning a future with broader layered anti-drone defenses.

The images and videos that the Army has released from Operation Hard Kill show other counter-drone capabilities being demonstrated. This includes the Containerized Weapon System (CWS), which can be configured for counter-drone use using laser-guided 70mm rockets as its effector, as well as with Javelin anti-tank missiles and other weapons for employment against threats on the ground, as you can read more about here.

A version of the Rheinmetall Mission Master uncrewed ground vehicle with a turret armed with a pair of fast-firing 7.62mm Miniguns, which was first unveiled back in 2022, is also being demonstrated at the event at Fort Drum. This reflects a separate trend in the development of counter-drone configured UGVs, some of which are also equipped with small radar arrays and other sensors.

Any rifle-armed robot dog could be employed against other targets besides drones, as well. Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) has been evaluating Ghost Robotics Vision 60s armed with rifles and conventional Marine units have been testing other types of robot dog types equipped with anti-armor rocket launchers.

A commercial-grade robot dog armed with a 66mm M72 anti-armor rocket launcher that the US Marine Corps has tested. USMC

Multiple types of unarmed robot dogs are already in limited U.S. military service in multiple roles, including to help with perimeter patrols around friendly bases.

Armed robot dogs look to be increasingly on the horizon for U.S. forces, including now potentially as a way to help hunt down hostile drones.

Contact the author: joe@twz.com
Rochester to break ground on new elementary school: Here's what to know

ROCHESTER  The groundbreaking for a new elementary school at 753 Salmon Falls Road is scheduled for 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14.

The Rochester School Department announced the event and affirmed the scheduled construction completion date is July 1, 2025. Leaders say it will be the city's largest elementary school.

The 68,000-square-foot facility will have the capacity to serve up to 420 kindergarten through Grade 5 students. The new school will replace two current city elementary schools, the School Street School and the already-closed Nancy Loud School, as well as allow for the removal of five modular classrooms at the Chamberlain and William Allen schools.

The new Rochester elementary school on Salmon Falls Road is expected to open in time for the start of the 2025-26 school year.

When the new school opens, Rochester is scheduled to complete its consolidation to six elementary schools.

Breaking ground on this project marks a new chapter in our commitment to excellence in education and our dedication to the future of our children," said new Rochester schools Superintendent Annie Azarloza in a prepared statement. "This school will be a cornerstone of learning and growth, fostering an environment where every child can thrive."

The facilitys first floor will include a library, cafeteria, gymnasium, rooms dedicated to music and art, and special education class space. Classrooms will include natural lighting and materials, flexible space, and current technology, according to district leaders. The second floor will house a dozen classrooms and additional special education spaces.

The project is anticipated to cost about $33.6 million. On Oct. 18, 2023, the Rochester City Council approved funding of $15.5 million toward the school. The New Hampshire Department of Education ranked the project at the top of its funding list for the 2024 cycle, providing $15.77 million in support.

Traffic flow at the new elementary school to be built on Salmon Falls Road in Rochester is a concern for neighboring residents.

Sarah Harrington, Rochester School District board member and chair of the Joint Building Committee, highlighted the collaborative efforts that made the groundbreaking possible. This project is the result of a true community effort. From the initial planning stages to groundbreaking, we have worked together to create a school that reflects our shared vision for the future," she said in a prepared statement.

Board Chair Shane Downs added, This school will provide our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and developmentally for decades to come. Were proud to give the next generation of Rochester students this beautiful facility and look forward to the moments and memories to come here.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Rochester to break ground on new elementary school
Rockford man accused of shooting victim in the face with a shotgun in February

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO)  Police arrested Jeffrey Eccles, 18, for attempted murder among other charges.

On February 9th, around 8:25 p.m., officials were dispatched to the Swedish American Hospital for a shooting victim. The victim told authorities on February 12th the incident happened when he thought he was meeting up with two males to smoke weed.

When he met with the suspects, they both demanded he get out of the vehicle and he thought they were trying to rob him, according to court documents. A passenger used her taser on one of the suspects when he reached into the car, the victim told police.

Both suspects started shooting at him, one with a semi-automatic shotgun, and the victim sustained wounds to the face, the arm and the chest, causing his lung to collapse, according to court records. The victim then drove off, police said.

The next Monday, officials received an anonymous tip indicating Eccles was one of the shooters and he was at his parents house. Authorities said Eccles was a juvenile at the time of the shooting and was on juvenile probation for aggravated discharge of a firearm.

After further investigation, officials found that the victim went to the 3400 block of Parkside Avenue the night of the shooting after finding it to be a dead-end street with a bike path parallel as described by the victim.

According to court documents, there were tire tracts in the grass on the south side of the street.

The victim identified Eccles as one of the shooters when presented with a photo lineup.

Eccles is being charged with aggravated battery while discharging a firearm, armed robbery with a firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon as a delinquent minor, unlawful possession of a handgun and attempted murder.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
Should Rockford schools consider banning cell phones in the classroom?

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO)  Educators nationwide are grappling with a concerning drop in student test scores, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating the decline to the lowest scores in decades.

Many school districts are looking for a cause, and cell phones have come under fire as a classroom distraction.

Roc Ordman has been teaching for almost 50 years.

Following his retirement from Beloit College in 2016, his opinion on cell phone usage soured after becoming an assistant teacher at Jefferson High School.

In all of her classes, the kids spent almost all of their time looking at their cell phones. And I immediately said: this is horrible, he said.

Ordman wrote letters to local papers and the school board, warning of the effect of cell phone usage on learning.

National data seems to corroborate his concerns.

A 2023 study, by the Program for International Student Assessment, found that students who spent less than an hour of leisure time on devices at school scored nearly 50 points higher in math than students who used a device more than five hours.

Its a huge handicap. The kids are looking at YouTube videos. Theyre not paying attention to the teacher, Ordman said. The only way to have the kids get rid of their cell phones is to make a blanket ban.

Elsewhere in Illinois, Hinckley-Big Rock School District is implementing a ban this year, requiring students to place their phones in a locked bag during the school day.

Rockford Public Schools said an outright ban is not currently under consideration.

Some students have expressed safety concerns if a cell phone ban is enforced.

I know I keep my phone to update my mom on where Im at or like when Im worried about whats going on around me, said Auburn High School Junior Jimonii Williams. Just for a safety precaution, because you never know what could happen.

Fellow Auburn Junior Raine Castleman said, When I call my mom and I tell her about (something that happened at school), shes willing to always help and come to the school and be likeThis is unacceptable. I have somebody to advocate for me. So if you take my phone away, if something happens and I see it, how am I supposed to get justice?

However, parent Ashton Lockhart said she wouldnt be opposed to a cellphone ban.

Learning is the most wonderful thing there is in life. Its free. Its available all the time. If youre addicted to playing a cell phone, its just youre just a zombie, she said.

Rockford school policy does allow for the confiscation of phones and other devices and temporary bans based on individual infractions.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
Prosecutors in special counsel David Weiss' office are accusing Hunter Biden of accepting payments from a Romanian businessman who was attempting to "influence U.S. government agencies," while his father Joe Biden was vice president.

If true, the allegation would mark the closest prosecutors have come to tying President Joe Biden to his son's overseas business endeavors -- a matter congressional Republicans have spent years scrutinizing.

The special counsel's claim, in a court filing Wednesday in the younger Biden's federal tax case, stems from Hunter Biden's work on behalf of Gabriel Popoviciu, a wealthy Romanian who prosecutors say hired the president's son for legal work in late 2015.

MORE: Timeline: Hunter Biden under legal, political scrutiny

Popoviciu was at the time facing corruption charges in his home country.

At Hunter Biden's upcoming tax trial, "the government will introduce the evidence ... that [Hunter Biden] and Business Associate 1 received compensation from a foreign principal who was attempting to influence U.S. policy and public opinion and cause the United States to investigate the Romanian investigation of [Popoviciu] in Romania," prosecutors wrote in Wednesday's filing.

According to prosecutors, Hunter Biden and his business associate "were concerned that lobbying work might cause political ramifications for the defendant's father," so the deal was structured in a way that "concealed the true nature of the work he was performing."

PHOTO: Hunter Biden departs the J. Caleb Boggs Federal Building in WIlmington, DE, June 03, 2024. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

The special counsel's office made a passing reference to Hunter Biden's work with Popoviciu in their December indictment. However, Wednesday's filing was the first to suggest that Hunter Biden was compensated in a lobbying capacity.

Prosecutors said Hunter Biden and two business partners split more than $3 million in payments from Popoviciu between November 2015 and 2017.

A representative for Hunter Biden did not immediately respond to a request for comment from ABC News.

Hunter Biden faces three felony tax charges and additional misdemeanors for allegedly failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes from 2016 to 2020. The back taxes and penalties were previously paid in full by a third party, identified by ABC News as Hunter Biden's attorney and confidant, Kevin Morris.

The trial, in California, is scheduled to begin in early September.

Romanian oligarch hired Hunter Biden to influence US policy, special counsel says originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS)  Members of the Rotary Club of Beckley provided $4,000 in donations to non-profit organizations, club officers announced on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

Jonathan Grose, president of Beckley Rotary Club, said the donations honor a former Rotarian, David Langford.

Which states do not have professional sports?

Dave Langford was a former Rotarian, and he was in the community and just loved giving back, said Grose. So, ten years ago, the Beckley Rotary Club established a fund in his honor that gives out to local food pantries and local kitchens.

Greenbrier County Schools announce reduced school schedule for the upcoming school year

Helping Hands, Food for Body and Soul and the Salvation Army are among the charities which received donations, Grose said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
LUVERNE, MN (KELO)  Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris selection of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate has come as somewhat of a surprise, even to his supporters in Minnesota.

Many thought Walz was a dark-horse among the other Democrats in the running.

Voters in Luverne think its a smart pick, while others believe Walz will be a drag on the ticket.

Many voters in southwest Minnesota didnt see it coming.

I just dont know what to think right now. Im pretty surprised, Phyllis Swenson of Luverne, MN said.

I didnt think somebody from the state of Minnesota would ever get picked, Barb VonHoltum of Magnolia, MN.

SD Dems, Noem react to Walz VP selection

Vice President Kamala Harris selection of Governor Tim Walz as her running mate even has one Minnesota Republican no longer considering a straight party-line vote this fall.

Well, most of the time, I just do Republican. But this time, Im going to separate and do Republican and Democrat and see what happens, (laughs) Shirley Clark of Luverne, MN said.

Bear in mind, Rock County is a very Republican. So most of the people we spoke with arent at all impressed with Harriss selection as vice-president. But some grudgingly give Walz good marks for how hes run the state.

Were in the black, so apparently hes okay. But other than that, like I say, Im a Republican, Larry Harms of Luverne MN said.

Other Minnesotans think Walz is too liberal to be vice-president and hasnt been a champion of rural interests as governor.

I never really liked what Walz has done for Minnesota. I felt like hes done more for the cities than like this part of Minnesota, this small area that were in, VonHoltum said.

Some voters see the Walz selection as bringing added political clout to the state. A race for the White House thats putting Minnesota front and center.

Other people we spoke with say that since Walz has been in the public eye for a long time, both as a U.S. congressman and now governor, they dont think hell have any political skeletons in his closet that will prove to be an embarrassment to the Democratic ticket.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
Tera Spangler is working to give Colorados deaf and blind students the education she never had growing up.

Earlier this year, she was selected as the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blinds (CSDB) next superintendent. As the first deaf superintendent in the schools 150-year history, her appointment marked the latest step in a storied tenure dating back to 2006 when she started as a teacher.

Pulling from her own experiences as a deaf student and educator, Spangler aims to shine a light on the schools unique offerings that students may not find elsewhere.

I didnt even know that this experience was out there, that it existed. I didnt know I needed this experience to develop my identity, she said.

A mainstreamed upbringing

Spangler was not born deaf, but gradually lost her hearing at age 10 from the side effects of either cancer or its treatment. Born and raised in a small rural town in Iowa, her options for specialized instruction were limited and although the Iowa School for the Deaf was an option, she opted to stay in her school.

Looking back, I should have done it sooner  I needed them sooner, but I was stubborn, and I wanted to be like everybody else, she said. I was the only one in my school  even in the town and the surrounding area  I was the only deaf person, so it was natural to want to be just like everybody else.

Going with the process known as mainstreaming, Spangler finished her public education alongside her fellow classmates through hearing aids and lip-reading. It was only when she began attending college when she would learn American Sign Language (ASL) and even meet another deaf person for the first time in her life.

Spangler knew she wanted to be a teacher from an early age but didnt know that specifically teaching students like her was even an option until this same time.

I didnt even think about that possibility just because I didnt have any experience or exposure with anyone who was deaf, deaf culture, deaf identity, I didnt have any of that, she said. I was immersed in the hearing culture. That was my experience up until that point.

Spanglers desire to work with deaf students led her to transfer to the University of Omaha and graduate with a double major in general education and deaf education. She would ultimately move to Colorado and begin teaching at CSDB in 2006.

Shes remained with the school ever since, assuming roles as a teacher, principal, director and interim superintendent before her appointment as superintendent.

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I want them to know what I didnt know

Despite originally coming to teach deaf students, Spangler quickly adapted to meet the needs of the schools blind students as well. During her 18 years with the school, Spangler has seen the school develop its Expanded Core Curriculum for blind students which applies nine specific areas of life skills into its academic instruction. The goal is to prepare students for living successful, independent lives after graduation and includes instruction on cooking, self-care, navigation and technology application.

Another recent development has been the integration of bilingual instruction for deaf students by teaching ASL at a young age as they also develop their native language through social interactions. The result is a stronger foundation for students to learn English as their second language later on in their education.

Throughout the entire campus, building renovations have been ongoing in recent years to address needs ranging from space and accessibility in the blind school to security upgrades and assistive technology for all students.

Its most recent addition is a newly designed accessible playground for students with additional disabilities set to open at the start of the school year.

We were actually able to get funding this year to finally to make that dream of those students come true, Spangler said. It was a huge ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) playground project, and it is so very cool.

Upon her appointment as the schools next superintendent, Spangler faced issues mentioned by stakeholders included student enrollment and recruiting qualified teachers and staff.

Spangler acknowledged the greater challenge the school faces in recruitment since the schools teachers often need two degrees or additional licensure or certifications to teach deaf and blind students respectively.

This need for additional training also extends to other faculty and staff who need to be able to work and communicate with blind and deaf students despite being employed as a counselor or nurse.

To make job openings more attractive, the school has begun offering sign-on bonuses and providing temporary housing to out-of-state hires while also partnering with local colleges to speed up certification processes and offer internships for future educators.

So, we are trying different things, she said. Were definitely not resolving everything (and) theres still definitely a challenge.

Perhaps the biggest challenge going forward for CSDB, like many public schools, remains to be student enrollment. Spangler admitted that they have experienced declining enrollment in recent years likely due to multiple factors.

Since students like her knew of deaf and blind schools existing growing up but perhaps not all they provide, she believes a similar lack of understanding might play a role and plans to increase public awareness of CSDB going forward.

As for what makes the school the ideal option for the local deaf and blind students 150 years later, Spangler said its sense of community to let them share experiences and develop their identities together remains one of its greatest strengths.

I want them to know what I didnt know and what I didnt figure out until later in my own life, she said.
Russia has accused Ukrainian troops of crossing the border into its Kursk region, which, if confirmed, marks the first incursion of its kind from Ukraine and puts pressure on Moscow in an area largely unaffected by the two-year war.

The Russian Ministry of Defense, the Russian Investigative Committee and the Russian Ombudsman for Children all said Ukrainian forces had launched a massive attack on Tuesday, attempting to break through the Russian defenses on the borders of the Kursk region, which sits just north of Ukraines Sumy region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the alleged incursion a large-scale provocation, saying Kyiv conducted indiscriminate shooting from various types of weapons, including missiles, at civilian buildings, residential buildings, and ambulances.

Ukrainian authorities did not comment on the claims and CNN cannot independently verify them.

The extent of the attack, including whether Ukrainian troops took over any settlements or caused damage to any strategic targets, remains unclear. It is also not clear whether any Ukrainian soldiers remained on Russian territory.

Russian authorities and military bloggers said Ukrainian forces attacked by land and air to enter Russia near the town of Sudzha, a town of 5,000 that lies about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the border.

The Russian Ministry of Health says that 31 people, including six children, were injured as a result of Ukrainian shelling in the Kursk region.

The mayor of the town, Vitaly Slashchev, described a very tense atmosphere, telling Russian state news agency RIA Novosti: There is no time to talk, many people are calling about evacuation.

The available geolocated videos do not indicate that Ukrainian troops have entered the town. Slashchev had earlier told state news outlet RT that the town was not under the control of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Border guards were putting up serious resistance to the advancing enemy troops, according to one unofficial Russian Telegram channel, Dya Mayora. Unfortunately, enemy reconnaissance groups are penetrating further, the post added.

CNN is unable to confirm the account, but geolocated video shows that parts of Sudzha have been heavily shelled. Drone footage geolocated by CNN shows some 20 men who appear to have surrendered at the heavily damaged border crossing south-west of Sudzha.

CNN is unable to confirm the identity of those shown in the video. Sternenko, an unofficial Ukrainian social media channel that distributed the video, said it showed at least 22 Russian soldiers surrender in the Kursk region.

The acting governor of Russias Kursk region, Aleksey Smirnov, says he has decided to introduce an emergency situation in the Kursk region from August 7th. He added in a Telegram post that the operational situation in the border areas remains difficult. To eliminate the consequences of the entry of enemy forces into the territory of the region, I decided to introduce an emergency situation.

It came after the Russian Ministry of Defense said that about 300 troops, supported by tanks and armored vehicles, attacked Russian positions near the villages of Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya.

Initially, the ministry said the attack was repelled, but that statement was later corrected to say that the enemy is being inflicted with fire damage.

Later on Wednesday, state news agency RIA Novosti quoted the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov as telling Putin that the advance of the Ukrainian Armed Forces deep into Russian territory has been stopped.

Aleksey Smirnov, the acting head of Kursk region, said Wednesday that several thousand people left the area over the past 24 hours.

On Wednesday, the Russian National Guard said it has strengthened security measures at a nuclear power plant in the region. Rosgvardia said in a Telegram post that within the framework of ensuring security of a particularly important guarded facility, Rosgvardia units took additional measures to protect the Kursk nuclear power plant.

The plant is about 50 kilometers north of where clashes and shelling are taking place around the town of Sudzha.

It is unclear why Ukrainian forces would launch an attack of the scale described by Russian authorities.

Ukrainian troops have found themselves under increased pressure along the 600-mile frontline as Moscow continues its slow, grinding offensive, so it could be an attempt to divert Russian resources elsewhere. Given the spate of more negative developments from the frontline, the news of a successful incursion help Kyiv boost the morale of its troops and civilian population.

A Russian military blogger Rybar reported that the Ukrainian military had established control over a gas transit station near the border. The blogger said the station is the only one through which gas from Russia flows to Ukraine and then to Europe. CNN cannot confirm that reporting.

The European Union has imposed wide-ranging economic sanctions on Russia  with the exception of key natural gas imports. The EU was dependent on Russian gas and while it has slashed imports from Russia from 45% of all gas imports in 2021, to 15% of EU gas imports in 2023, some Russian gas still continues to flow to Europe through Ukraine, despite the war.

If confirmed, the attack would be a major development in the conflict  even if its immediate impact is limited.

While there have been reports of pro-Ukrainian sabotage groups crossing into Russia, none have caused significant damage. The Ukrainian military has regularly attacked targets inside Russia with drones and missiles, but Kyiv has not launched any official ground incursions across the border in the two and half years since the start of the full-scale war.

The Institute for the Study of War, a US-based conflict monitoring group, said it had geolocated footage published on August 6 that shows damaged and abandoned armored vehicles roughly 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) north of the border, but said it could not confirm if they were Russian, Ukrainian or both.

Russian forces have meanwhile been inching toward the strategically important city of Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine, threatening a vital Ukrainian supply line. At the same time, Russian forces claim to have seized the village of Niu York and are getting closer to Toretsk.

CNNs Olga Voitovych, Tim Lister, Nick Paton Walsh and Paul Murphy contributed reporting.

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Russian-American dual national Ksenia Karelina is admitting guilt in a treason case in Russia, her lawyer told state news agency TASS on Wednesday.

TASS quoted Karelinas lawyer Mikhail Mushailov as saying his client admits the charge. The next hearing is scheduled for August 8, TASS reported.

Karelina, 33, was detained in Yekaterinburg earlier this year while visiting her grandparents. She is accused of donating $51.80 to a Ukrainian charity in the United States, according to her employer, a spa in Beverly Hills, California.

Karelina is a Los Angeles resident and amateur ballerina who became a US citizen in 2021. She entered Russia in January but the US did not learn of her arrest until February 8.

Chris Van Heerden, Karelinas boyfriend, told CNN he had bought her ticket to visit the country as a birthday gift. He said she was proud to be Russian, and she doesnt watch the news. She doesnt intervene with anything about the war.

I believe America will bring her back to me, Van Heerden said.

Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) has accused Karelina of taking part in public actions to support the Kyiv regime.

The organization to which Karelina reportedly gave money, the New York-based non-profit Razom for Ukraine, said it was appalled by her detention.

This is a developing story. More details to follow.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) speaks with Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov during the Expanded Meeting of Defence Ministry Board. RIA Novosti/Kremlin/dpa

The chief of Russia's general staff, Valery Gerasimov, put the number of Ukrainian soldiers fighting inside Russia's Kursk region, which borders Ukraine, at up to 1,000.

At least 100 of them have now been killed and 215 injured, Gerasimov said in a video call with Russian President Vladimir Putin broadcast by the Kremlin on its Telegram news channel on Wednesday.

The Kremlin said Putin was briefed on the situation in the region. There was no information on casualties on the Russian side.

The Ukrainian advance had been stopped, Gerasimov claimed.

"The operation will end with the destruction of the enemy and the return to the state border," he said.

The Ministry of Defence in Moscow had said on Tuesday that there had been no breakthrough from the Ukrainian side. now the military has admitted that units have entered Russian territory.

Russian military bloggers said that the advance was continuing and that 11 villages were also under enemy control. This was neither officially confirmed nor independently verifiable.

According to Russian authorities, thousands of civilians have fled the border villages caught up in the fighting since Tuesday, with at least three killed and more than 20 injured.
The Russian government has decided to allocate 1.8 billion roubles (almost US$21 million) to resettle residents of Kursk Oblast, where Ukrainian troops have reportedly broken through.

Source: Russian propaganda news agency RIA Novosti

Quote: "[First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian government Denis] Manturov said that the Ministry of Finance had been instructed to allocate the first tranche of 1.8 billion roubles to resettle residents in Kursk Oblast."

Background:

The authorities of Kursk Oblast alleged on the morning of 6 August that there had been an attempt by Ukrainian forces to break through into the Sudzha and Korenevo districts of Kursk Oblast.

Russian Telegram channels began to spread information about fighting in the border area of Kursk Oblast on the morning of 6 August. They stressed that Ukrainian defenders are supposedly advancing towards Goncharovka in Sudzha district with their equipment.

The Russian Ministry of Defence has said that it deployed reserve troops to the Russian-Ukrainian border in Kursk Oblast.

Russian propagandists and milbloggers are claiming that Ukrainian forces, which are said to have entered Russia's Kursk Oblast on the night of 5-6 August, have secured a foothold in the border area.

Ukraine has not yet commented on the events in Kursk Oblast.

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Alexei Smirnov, the acting governor of Russias Kursk Oblast, and several Russian military bloggers have reported that fighting is continuing in the border areas of the Sudzha and Korenevoy districts of Kursk Oblast. This information, however, contradicts reports from the Russian Ministry of Defence and the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), which say they have repelled the raids.

Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW)

Details: Russian sources claimed that on 6 August, Ukrainian forces executed a series of incursions into Russias Kursk Oblast. Both the Russian Ministry of Defence and the Federal Security Service (FSB) reported on the same day that Russian border troops, along with FSB officers, repelled several Ukrainian raids, which involved a battalion-sized force of tanks and armoured vehicles.

According to these claims, Ukrainian forces were advancing towards Russian positions near Nikolayevo-Darino and Oleshnya in Kursk Oblast, located northwest of the Ukrainian city of Sumy and along the Russian-Ukrainian frontier. Geolocated footage released on 6 August showed damaged and abandoned armoured vehicles approximately seven kilometres north of the international border, west of Lyubimovka in Kursk Oblast. Russian sources maintained that these vehicles belonged to Ukraine, though the ISW could not determine if the armoured vehicles were Russian, Ukrainian, or both.

Russian military bloggers further claimed that Ukrainian forces had attacked from two different directions: one from the Sudzha checkpoint and another from the village of Nove in Ukraines Sumy Oblast, moving towards Nikolayevo-Darino in Russias Kursk Oblast. The Russian Ministry of Defence asserted that Russian reserve units had responded to the Ukrainian assaults, and an insider source indicated that elements of the Chechen special forces unit, Akhmat, were also involved in repelling the attacks. However, ISW could not corroborate these assertions.

The Russian Ministry of Defence reported the destruction of 16 Ukrainian armoured vehicles during the raids and mentioned that Russian forces had launched retaliatory strikes on Ukrainian positions in Sumy Oblast. Russian bloggers circulated videos claiming to show the aftermath of the alleged Ukrainian incursions, although much of the depicted damage appeared to result from routine Ukrainian shelling, rather than ground assaults in the area.

To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 6 August:

Russian sources claimed that Ukrainian forces conducted a series of cross border raids into Kursk Oblast on 6 August.

Russian milbloggers largely dismissed the supposed Ukrainian raids into Kursk Oblast, and Ukrainian officials have largely yet to comment on the raids.

Russian Security Council Secretary and former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu have heavily overexaggerated Russian advances in Ukraine since mid-June 2024.

Russian officials continue coordination and military cooperation with Iran ahead of the Iranian retaliatory strike against Israel out of concern for Russian interests in the region.

Armenia continues to abstain from the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO).

Russian forces advanced east of Toretsk.

The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) reportedly issued a formal reply denying a request from the wives of the mobilised Russian personnel to meet with Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov.

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Ukrainian drone operators are increasingly taking the fight to the Russian helicopters operating over and around the battlefield, by launching direct attacks with first-person view (FPV) drones. While there has been one previous report of a Russian rotorcraft successfully being attacked by a drone and several videos showing near-misses, the increasing quantity of such incidents indicates that this is now becoming a more established practice.

Ukrainian drone operators are increasingly taking the fight to the Russian helicopters operating over and around the battlefield, by intercepting them with first-person view (FPV) drones. While there has been one previous report of a Russian rotorcraft successfully being attacked by a drone and several videos showing near-misses, the increasing quantity of such incidents indicates that this is now becoming a more established practice and one thats in line with Ukraines development of counter-air drones.

       !



  2          -28  FPV,     .

 ,      .



    2   pic.twitter.com/bsqVAHs6Ja  Serhii Sternenko  (@sternenko) August 7, 2024

A video that has hit social media shows a Ukrainian drone attack on a Russian Mi-28 Havoc attack helicopter. Filmed from the drone itself, the footage shows that the unmanned aerial vehicle approached the helicopter from the left rear aspect, before swinging around the tail, bringing it on a collision course with the Mi-28s tail rotor, mounted at the end of the tail boom on the right-hand side. Targeting helicopter tail rotors in this way is very likely calculated for maximum effect.

The video feed is lost moments later, leaving it unclear as to exactly what happened, although the break would be consistent with the drone impacting the helicopter, or detonating if it was carrying a warhead. While the Mi-28 is designed with battlefield survivability in mind, any kind of damage to the tail rotor would bring the mission to an end, if not result in a total loss.

Russian Mi-28N helicopters from the 344th State Combat Training and Flight Crew Conversion Center in Torzhok. Andrei Shmatko/Wikimedia Commons



Since the tail rotor provides torque to counteract the main rotors (which are rotating either clockwise or counterclockwise), if it stops functioning, the helicopter will begin spinning in the opposite direction of the main rotor. In the best-case scenario, the pilot will then enter an autorotation and perform an emergency running landing. In the worst case, it will lead to a crash or even a mid-air breakup. The lower and slower a helicopter is flying when it loses its tail rotor, the less likely it is that the pilot will be able to recover at all.

With that in mind, there have been various claims already made that the drone brought down the Mi-28 and even that this was the first time an engagement of this kind had been successfully carried out.

Ukrainian reports suggest the incident shows the successful downing of a Mi-28 yesterday by an FPV drone operated by the M2 unit, part of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).

Citing sources within the SBU, The Kyiv Post reports that the Mi-28 was successfully hit by a drone over the Kursk region of southwest Russia. As you can read more about here, Russian military and security forces are currently dealing with a major machanized assault launched across the Ukrainian border and into this region.

The crew of a Russian Mi-28NM attack helicopter at a forward location in Ukraine. Fighterbomber A Mi-28NM, probably number 41, in Ukraine. Fighterbomber

In fact, the Mi-28 may be one of the aircraft that the Russian Ministry of Defense said yesterday that it was sending to the Kursk region, alongside reserve troops, to help repel the incursion.

On his Telegram channel, Ukrainian journalist Yurii Butusov describes the video as showing the second attack on an enemy manned aircraft in the last week using a Ukrainian interceptor drone but notes that the fate of the aircraft and its crew is unclear.

Meanwhile, at least one Russian account on social media also admits that the Mi-28 was hit by a Ukrainian drone, leading to a forced landing.

 ,    FPV  -28  2   ,      (, ),       . pic.twitter.com/UPM8hbdDY9  Serhii Sternenko  (@sternenko) August 7, 2024

At this point, we dont have evidence of what happened to the helicopter, but based on what we can see, its loss  or at the very least an emergency landing  is a distinct possibility.

Russian military bloggers state that as many as three helicopters  a Ka-52, a Mi-8, and a Mi-28  have so far been destroyed in the Kursk incursion. Moreover, on the Russian 13th Telegram channel there are claims that all three of these rotorcraft were brought down using FPV drones.

Wreckage of the Ka-52 that was reportedly also brought down over the Kursk region in the last 24 hours:

Another Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter was shot down today.



One pilot was killed, the other wounded. pic.twitter.com/3AmJYbQTGZ  Clash Report (@clashreport) August 6, 2024

Since the Mi-28 footage first appeared, there have been at least two more videos published that show other Ukrainian attempts to use drones to directly engage Russian helicopters. These both show the drones eye view of Russian Mi-8 Hip series transport helicopters, although the outcomes of the engagements are not shown.

Ukrainian FPV drones vs Russian helicopters.



This is just the beginning. pic.twitter.com/nvWfhXTgOd  WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated) August 7, 2024

There have been previous claims of Ukraine using a drone to destroy a Mi-8, as you can read about here.

In that instance, there was no supporting video evidence of the engagement, which was said to have involved a Russian Mi-8AMTSh helicopter, which came down in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine.

This morning, a Russian Mi-8 transport helicopter crashed near Donetsk City.



Russian sources report it was downed by a Ukrainian FPV drone.



Seen here, the wreckage burns in an open field. pic.twitter.com/IcFpizwbV1  OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) July 31, 2024

Yesterday we wrote about the enemys attempts to operate drones against our army aviation, wrote the Voivode Broadcasts Telegram channel, which first reported the incident, on July 31, 2024. Unfortunately today they succeeded.

According to the same account, the helicopter was hit at the moment of takeoff, suggesting that may have been on the ground, or very close to it when the drone engaged it.

The drone engagement in the Mi-28 video is somewhat more complex, with the helicopter not flying as low or slow as the Mi-8.

There have been other previous efforts to use drones to bring down helicopters in the conflict, with videos from both the Ukrainian and Russian sides. While there have been some dramatic near-misses and close calls, there is not, as far as we know, any footage that shows a confirmed kill.

A Russian FPV drone attempted to attack a Ukrainian Mi-24 combat helicopter, but was intercepted and down with an electronic warfare device.https://t.co/xtn1Qvrjll pic.twitter.com/mrUjpw9XAW  WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated) April 12, 2024

Unsuccessful attempt to attack a Russian Ka-52 helicopter using kamikaze FPV. The helicopter was faster, this time. https://t.co/uJ9mIRfyIQ pic.twitter.com/f1PwshLZoK  Special Kherson Cat (@bayraktar_1love) September 6, 2023

Russian Small Drone trying to down Ukrainian MI-24/35 Helicopter in the Ongoing War b/w



Time not far when fast Small UAVs will get success in this



Small things are as Agile as dangerous pic.twitter.com/8qtcNYBCms  Vivek Singh (@VivekSi85847001) April 3, 2024

However, the three new videos demonstrate that man-in-the-loop controlled drones are now being more widely used to attack helicopters in flight, and not only when they are at their most vulnerable (i.e. low and slow, or even on the ground).

Using drones to go after helicopters is also a logical extension of Ukraines rapidly expanding drone-on-drone interceptor fleet, a prospect that we had suggested back in July.

As we wrote at the time:

Drones engaging in air-to-air combat began to emerge not long after the conflict erupted. FPV drones, especially ones operating in conjunction with an airborne relay system, can absolutely hit a slow-moving helicopter a dozen miles behind the front lines. As lower-end drone technology fuses with AI/machine learning, these drones will be able to prosecute such targets of opportunity on their own, with the shackles of maintaining line-of-sight connectivity taken off.

Ukrainian FPV drone attacks and destroys Russias ZALA ISR UAV. https://t.co/gY01Xk5CqB pic.twitter.com/S03USttHDl  Samuel Bendett (@sambendett) June 12, 2024

The possibilities presented by AI-enabled drones are something you can read more about here.

As it stands, whatever the outcome of the Mi-28 engagement, helicopters of both sides in the conflict are now facing even more threats.

Already, freedom of action for helicopters close to the front lines is severely limited by conventional air defenses. On the ground, meanwhile, helicopters are being targeted by standoff weaponry such as the Ukrainian HIMARS and ATACMS and Russian Iskander. This has also pushed them further away from the front and forced a change in tactics.

If reports that the Mi-28 was engaged over their own territory are true, then that is even more alarming for the Russians. Although it remains to be seen just how enduring this new incursion into the Kursk region will be, FPV drones can be operated by small teams operating behind the front lines, where rotorcraft present very valuable targets of opportunity.



Helicopters also provide particularly suitable targets for drones like these, even if they lack any kind of relay to extend the range of the connectivity between them and the operator. Since the targets are airborne, there is a better, unobstructed line of sight to the drone operators, allowing them to venture further while maintaining connectivity. If a relay is available, the range at which they can operate is extended even further, battery life dependent.

More generally, however, the availability and portability of FPV drones being used in their new air defense role further complicates helicopter operations especially near the front lines, as these engagements usher in something of a new era in air warfare.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
Russian offensive has dragged on and will decline in 1.5-2 months  Ukraine's spy chief

Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), anticipates that the ongoing Russian offensive will decline within one and a half to two months.

Source: Budanov in an interview with Forbes Ukraine

Quote from Budanov: "The main offensive [by Russian forces] is expected to be over in a month and a half to two months, as the offensive has dragged on."

Details: The spy chief noted that experience from a decade-long war has shown that the offensive potential of "any side does not last more than two months".

He added that a slight decline is anticipated since the Russian offensive operations have been nearing three months.

"But we know that after the decline and a short lull, there will be new attempts by the enemy to attack. And we are preparing for this," Budanov stressed.

He believes that the subsequent situation will also depend on Ukraine.

"We can wait and see; four or five months will pass and everything will repeat itself again. Or we can be proactive" Budanov said.

Background:

At the end of January 2024, Budanov stated that the Russian offensive, which began in November 2023, would be exhausted in early spring. "Somewhere in early spring, it will be completely exhausted... Currently, it's the enemy's move. It will end, and, I believe, ours will begin," Budanov said.

On 13 July, Kyrylo Budanov said in an interview with Ukrainian news magazine NV that Russia would try to attack Ukraine's territory from the north in the coming months. However, after a phone call with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Budanov explained that he had been "slightly misunderstood".

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The main thrust of Russia's offensive should come to a close within one and a half or two months, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) chief Kyrylo Budanov said in comments to graduates the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE), Forbes Ukraine reported.

"The practice of a 10-year war shows that the offensive potential of any side does not last more than two months. The Russian offensive operations are approaching three months, so there will be some decline," Budanov said.

Russia launched a new offensive in the northern part of Kharkiv Oblast back in May, but the advance eventually ran out of steam. The operation was seen by many experts as an attempt to distract and stretch Ukrainian forces thin.

In the meantime, Russia has continued to seize villages in Donetsk Oblast and push toward the towns of Chasiv Yar and Pokrovsk, which are said to be Moscow's main targets.

Budanov also said that after a "slight lull," Russia will try to attack again.

"We are preparing for this. Therefore, everything depends on ourselves, what our actions will be," he added.

"Are we just going to sit and wait, let four or five months pass, and everything will happen again? Or will we act proactively?"

General Oleksandr Pivnenko, the commander of Ukraine's National Guard, presented a similar timeline as Budanov back in July, when he estimated that the Russian offensive would wind down within a month and a half.

In May, Budanov said he expected Russia to launch a new offensive into Sumy Oblast after attacking near Kharkiv.

Moscow said on Aug. 6 that Ukrainian troops broke into Russia's Kursk Oblast, which borders with Sumy Oblast. The clashes on Russian soil were reported, but Kyiv has not commented on the fighting.

Read also: Opinion: The path to peace in Europe

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Russian officials say 5 civilians killed, 20 injured in fighting across border in Kursk Oblast

Acting governor Alexei Smirnov reported via his official Telegram page that five civilians, including two ambulance crew members, were killed and at least 20 were wounded as a result of clashes with Ukrainian troops in Russia's Kursk region.

Smirnov added that two missiles were downed over the region in the early hours of Aug. 7. The Kyiv Independent couldn't immediately verify those claims.

On Aug. 6, Russia's Defense Ministry said that Ukrainian soldiers broke into the territory of Russia's Kursk Oblast. This announcement followed reports from Russian pro-war Telegram channels, which claimed that a sabotage and reconnaissance group, equipped with heavy weaponry, had entered the region earlier that morning.

Kursk Oblast borders Ukraine's northeastern Sumy Oblast, an area subjected to daily Russian attacks since parts of it were liberated in April 2022.

The crowd-sourced monitoring website DeepState shared images that appeared to show a downed Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter and two destroyed tanks, amidst reports of a cross-border incursion into Kursk Oblast.

Earlier, Ukrainian authorities in Sumy Oblast reported that troops in the area had downed a Russian helicopter, two drones, and a ballistic missile. This announcement came as reports indicated intensified Russian attacks in the oblast.

At around 5 p.m. local time, Russia's Defense Ministry alleged that up to 300 soldiers from Ukraine's 22nd Separate Mechanized Brigade, equipped with tanks and armored vehicles, had attacked Russian units near the border settlements of Nikolaevo-Darino and Oleshnya in the Kursk region.

Ukraine's General Staff on Aug. 6 reported Russian strikes on border villages but made no mention of any Ukrainian offensive operation inside Russian territory.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Moscow claims clashes with Ukrainian troops on Russian soil

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Ukrainian forces have launched a major incursion into Russias Kursk region, according to Russian officials, in what could be a major escalation in the war.

Kursk, which lies just beyond Ukraines northeastern Sumy region, has been under direct attack from Ukrainian troops since Tuesday night, Russias Ministry of Defense said in a post on Telegram.

Russian forces have mostly beaten back the advance of the Ukrainian force, which included 260 militants and 50 units of armored vehicles, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed.

Russian military blogger Rybar said on Telegram that Ukrainian forces have occupied several settlements in Kursk and are advancing toward the town of Sudzha. Ukrainian troops are also advancing toward the settlements of Nikolaevo-Darino just east of Sudzha.

At least 28 people have died in the attacks on the region, which is in a state of emergency, Russian state-run media reported.

Alexei Smirnov, the acting governor of the Kursk region, said the situation remains tense in a post on Telegram.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is holding an emergency meeting on the Kursk attacks, according to Smirnov.

Ukrainian officials have not publicly commented on the news. At the urging of the U.S., Kyiv has not directly sent troops into Russia and does not strike Russian territory with American or allied weapons unless it involves a cross-border attack.

A direct Ukrainian attack would frustrate Washington, which has tried to keep the war from escalating. Putin is likely to respond with aggression if Ukrainian forces mounted a direct assault on a Russian region.

Anti-Kremlin Russian groups have previously crossed into Russias border regions to mount attacks, but Russian military blogger Alexander Kots wrote very specific brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces entered Russia, calling it a full-blown military operation.

Not a sabotage and reconnaissance group, not a terrorist squad, but regular troops of a neighboring state. And they do not hide this, he wrote on Telegram.

The Kursk attacks may have been aimed at preventing Russian forces from mounting an offensive into the Sumy region, where reports indicated Moscow may launch another attack.

Ukraine is already defending its territory across the 600-mile front from Russian forces, including a May offensive that began in the northeastern Kharkiv region neighboring Sumy.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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France allowed the Russian sailing frigate Shtandart to dock in its port despite EU sanctions over Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, AFP reported on Aug. 7, citing an unnamed port source.

The European Union along with some other nations banned Russian ships from entering their ports soon after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The vessel arrived in the port city of La Rochelle overnight on Aug. 6 to replenish supplies and refuel, the source told AFP. The same day in the afternoon, the Standart departed in an unclear direction, the news agency reported.

Another AFP's source close to the French authorities said it was only a "technical stopover" and that there was no reason to prohibit it.

The Shtandart ship is a replica of a frigate belonging to Tsar Peter the Great. It was banned from entering the French port city of Brest and from the Breton port's maritime festival in July after the regional Finistere prefecture ruled that EU sanctions included "historic ships" that bore a Russian flag before the invasion.

A video was published on the boat's Instagram account on Aug. 6 showing its captain and owner Vladimir Martus who comments on the stopover.

"Shtandart is going to depart from La Rochelle. It's been beautiful to be here, we've got fuel, we got food, we sent the crew to shower, we are going to sail for a week. Bye-bye La Rochelle! Hope to be here again," he says in the video.

Read also: Russian deep-sea vehicle damaged after collision in Norwegian Sea, military intelligence says

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Four Russian Shahed loitering munitions were shot down over Khmelnytskyi Oblast on the night of 6-7 August. The wreckage from the downed drones damaged storage tanks and the premises of a workshop belonging to a manufacturing company in the oblast.

Source: Serhii Tiurin, Head of Khmelnytskyi Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote from Tiurin: "Our air defence units destroyed four enemy Shahed UAVs within the oblast during an air raid last night. However, the fall of their wreckage damaged storage tanks and workshop premises belonging to one of the oblast's manufacturing companies."

Details: Tiurin stressed that no one had been injured in the attack. All relevant services are working at the scene.

Background:



On the night of 6-7 August, Russian forces launched attack drones from the south. At around 03:00, an air-raid warning was issued in Ternopil, Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk oblasts in Ukraine's west.

Russian drones were also spotted in Kyiv Oblast, and the local authorities reported that air defence units had been responding.

In addition, Ukrainian air defence units shot down 14 Russian Shahed UAVs over Mykolaiv Oblast and their wreckage caused dry grass to catch fire. A Russian missile was shot down over Sumy Oblast.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Moscow. Putin on Wednesday accused Ukraine of a serious provocation following reports of a Ukrainian offensive in the Russian border region of Kursk. -/Kremlin/dpa

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday accused Ukraine of a serious provocation following reports of a Ukrainian offensive in the Russian border region of Kursk.

At a government meeting broadcast on Telegram, Putin said rockets had been fired at civilian targets and residential buildings.

Putin said he would receive further reports on the military situation at a meeting with the Defence Ministry, the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces and the domestic intelligence service (FSB), which is responsible for border protection.

Earlier, the Defence Ministry confirmed fighting is ongoing in the Kursk region, one day after it claimed to have repelled a Ukrainian offensive.

In response, the Investigative Committee in Moscow, Russia's top prosecuting authority, has opened criminal proceedings for what it described as a terrorist attack on Russian territory.
State schools Superintendent Ryan Walters is a threat to teachers and a menace to school district administrators, and Oklahomans can get rid of him, a guest columnist writes.

Ryan Walters is the state superintendent of Oklahoma public schools, and many in public education hate him. That sounds hyperbolic, but it is not. Teachers, principals, superintendents. Many hate him because hes an opportunist politician actively making educators lives worse.

I despise the guy, and I think thats honestly OK and justified since he called the Oklahoma teachers union a terrorist organization and then smiled. Hes the worst Oklahoma has to offer. Hes a threat to teachers and a menace to school district administrators. Walters is an embarrassment to the state of Oklahoma and everyone in Oklahoma, whether or not you work in education. Hes a loose cannon with taxpayer dollars.

Oklahoma doesnt have to suffer Ryan Walters. We can get rid of him. He doesnt have to hold an official title or powers or a governmental office. Its not a requirement that our elected officials be fundamentally antagonistic toward the departments they oversee. And make no mistake about it: Walters is a former teacher hell-bent on ruining the profession for current teachers.

More: Readers on Ryan Walters and his demand for teaching the Bible in public schools | Letters

Hes hugely unpopular, wholly unfit for office ... a shameless opportunist, desperately attaching himself to more-popular MAGA figures and right-wing personalities. Hes a political leech.

We  Oklahomans  dont have to put up with him. Why do we? Surely we dont fear the guy who films himself in his parked car like its a private studio. We better not let a man-child who exhibits zero fruits of the spirit force Christian Bibles into public classrooms and then threaten schools who resist. We are not that submissive to mediocre men.

Editorial: Legislators, remove Ryan Walters. End his toxic crusade against Oklahoma teachers

Walters does not care about doing anything good for Oklahoma. He is on a mission to expand his own personal brand. He hoots and hollers about porn in public school libraries because hes trying to sell himself to the MAGA machine and broader right-wing media. He sells out Oklahomans in the process.

Walters' X profile is disturbing for a state superintendent. Hes self-obsessed. He loves seeing himself in Republican spaces. He regurgitates GOP catchphrases with off-putting intensity yet zero believability.

Oklahoma deserves better than Ryan Walters. Or maybe we dont. Maybe our state is so awful that Walters is a just punishment, a fitting politician for us. ... But I dont think so.

More: Ryan Walters vanity campaign needs to end. Oklahoma Republicans couldn't stop it | Opinion

I think Oklahomans largely value public education and want it to be the best it can be, even nationally renowned. I think weve gotten lazy and complacent and unconcerned about governmental officials because caring about politics is not fun. Weve avoided political strife and so cloistered ourselves in chambers of apathy because being political is less fun than being patriotic. Unfortunately, Walters is the result of Oklahomans not diligently scrutinizing the people who crave power. Its time to be political for the sake of our public education system.

The good news is that we dont have to keep being apathetic. We can say enough. We can say there are some politicians whose behavior is so egregious, so disgusting that we wont accept it. Oklahoma can fire Ryan Walters and should.

Alex Shirley

Alex Shirley is a public school teacher in Oklahoma.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters does not care about doing anything good for Oklahoma
A deep forensic audit by Sacramento State of its Capital Public Radio station raises more questions than answers, mainly why the review is so uninformative to its listeners to the point of withholding the names the key players who were subject to the investigation.

The audit, performed by CliftonLarsonAllen, an accounting firm, found hundreds of thousands of credit card expenses that the radio station paid on behalf of the unidentified Subject #1 without receipts or any documented substantiation. Missing entirely is what the listeners money was spent on. And the university is mum on whether the findings in its mind rise to civil or criminal wrongdoing, other than to say Subject #1 had hired an attorney and refused to be interviewed and that law enforcement is investigating.

The most glaring omission in this audit is how the investigators failed to ask Sacramento State the fundamental question about a radio station headed toward financial insolvency after deciding to leave campus and relocate into expensive leased office space downtown. Why did the leadership of Sacramento State think this was a good idea? And why didnt they insist that the universitys radio station stay on campus?

Opinion

The Sacramento Bee on Monday requested the names of board members and subjects not named in the audit. So far the university has not provided the information. A university spokesman directed The Bee to request the information via a Public Records Act request portal on its website.

Sac State and CapRadio are dedicated to sound fiscal stewardship of public and donor funds, the university said in a published statement upon releasing the audit. We are committed to transparency, ensuring that our stakeholders are duly informed every step of the way. Both entities are cooperating with law enforcement related to an ongoing investigation.

University President Luke Wood, in a separate statement, said, If you are like me, you will find the facts presented in CLAs report deeply concerning. It is absolutely unacceptable that any public organization  particularly one connected to our university  could be so poorly mismanaged.

The radio station is a decades-long auxiliary organization that had been overseen by its own board of directors in partnership with the university, which holds the stations license. After signing leases to move downtown prior to the COVID pandemic and the subsequent economic downturn, the university had to step in with funds intended for education to keep the station afloat.

The university took direct financial control of the station last September after an initial audit by the California State University system, which prompted this deeper forensic examination.

In its report, auditors stated that they conducted public record searches as part of their investigation, but then produced a report that keep key public information secret about spending and potential conflicts of interest.

Credit cards and Subject #1

Auditors found credit cards being paid by the radio station, yet had no idea who were the beneficiaries. Sacramento State was unable to determine who was truly the user for any of these cards, the audit said.

Our mysterious Subject #1, however, appears to have been the clear owner of an American Express card that the radio station automatically paid every month. The station paid $127,552.08 to cover credit card purchases for about 17 months in 2021 and 2022. Then Subject #1 started paying off the credit card balance personally and submitting requests for reimbursements.

All told, the audit found more than $774,000 in potentially questionable spending. Subject #1 spent $460,800 without corresponding evidence of expense reports and/or receipts.

In an email Tuesday answering questions from The Bee, a university spokesperson said, Certain details, including individual identities, are withheld to protect the integrity of the ongoing law enforcement investigation and witness privacy. How does shielding Subject #1s identity change a shred of evidence? That the audit doesnt identify anybody, particularly board members who are not under law enforcement investigation, basically speaks for itself.

Board members and conflicts

The audit found that the radio station purchased furniture for the new downtown office from an unnamed business who was also a radio board member. The amount of money involved? Kept secret. Along with the identity of Board Member 2, for no apparent public reason.

The same secrecy holds true for three contracts with vendors. The audit determined that a CPR Board member was either a founder or employed by the vendor. As such, the contracts with CPR may have provided a financial benefit to the Board members associated with each vendor. No discussions of potential conflicts of interest were identified in the board minutes.

As The Bee had previously reported, the audit found that another board member was related to ownership of one of the downtown properties being leased. The Bee has reported her identity, local developer Katherine Bardis-Miry, who has since resigned from the board. The audit refers to her as Board Member 1. Her marriage to a partial owner of the building demonstrates at least the appearance of a potential conflict of interest, the audit said. The spousal relationship was not noted in the Board meeting minutes.

The university is withholding the audits multiple attachments and exhibits.

The missing question

Audits can do more than examine documents. They can review decisions. The fatal one for Sacramento State, made during the presidency of Robert Nelsen, was to go along with this expensive idea for CapRadio to leave its long-time campus location for downtown. Failure to step in and put the brakes on this grandiose scheme has proved extremely expensive for the university, far more than the credit card balances of Subject #1.

Asked why the audit did not examine university leadership, the university emailed the following: Our focus now is on addressing current issues and ensuring that CapRadios future is robust and financial controls are effective. This deeper followup audit, he said, was based on the initial audit.

There is a saying about learning the lessons of history to avoid repetition. The universitys incapacity to embrace a little introspection here is worrisome.

Wood inherited this mess when he became Sacramento States new president last year. His decision to step in and manage the stations finances essentially saved CapRadio for its listeners. To produce a forensic audit with more holes than Swiss cheese, however, is a step in the wrong direction.

CapRadio, based on its slogan, is where facts matter and stories inspire.

Its parent, the university, is keeping a truckload of facts from its listeners. And that doesnt inspire that kind of confidence necessary to help move this vital radio station past a disastrous financial chapter.

A previous version of the column had attributed a university quote directly to President Luke Wood.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  SafePlace and Simple Life are competing in Coffee Kings latest Battle of the Brews fundraiser!

KCAU 9 News got a chance to speak with Sheri Porter from Simple Life and Stephanie Pickenpaugh from SafePlace to find out the flavor in this years Battle of the Brews.

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SafePlace selected the Sumatra Dark as their single origin and Captian Crunch as their flavor and Simple Life selected Tanzania Peaberry for their simple origin and the Cinnamon Sugar Pop-tart for their flavor.

By purchasing one of the selected blends, buyers can cast their vote and donate proceeds to the organizations. Forty percent of the proceeds will go towards support programs for the two Siouxland area nonprofits, including additional cash prizes based on the number of bags sold by each nonprofit.

All the Coffees are available Ground or Whole Bean. They can be ordered on the SafePlace website, by calling 712-277-0131, or in person at Coffee King.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is grilling Boeing executives and others over the door plug blowout from the Alaska Air flight that took off from Portland in January.

The hearing is expected to last through Wednesday in Washington D.C.

The NTSB asked direct, challenging and pointed questions of Boeing representatives after a door panel blew off of a 737 Max on Jan. 5, an incident that the Alaska Airlines co-pilot told investigators threw the flight into chaos.

KOIN Previous Coverage: Alaska Flight 1282

The decompression was so powerful, it blew open the cockpit door and tore off the co-pilots headset.

There were no deaths and the flight eventually returned to Portland safely. The door plug was found in a high school science teachers backyard in Cedar Hills, Oregon.

The NTSB has said in a preliminary report that four bolts that help secure the panel were not replaced after a repair job in a Boeing factory in Renton, Washington. But the company has said the work was not documented.

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Boeing has been trying to repair its public image for months in the aftermath of the incident involving Alaska Airline Flight 1282

KOIN 6 News spoke to Boeing whistleblowers who blamed poor quality control at Boeing plants for many issues.

Quality control, both by Boeing and its subcontractor, was a focus of the NTSBs line of questioning at different points during the hearing.

The door plug from the Alaska Airlines Flight 1282s Boeing 737-9 MAX airplane is shown at the National Transportation Safety Board laboratory, in Washington, July 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File)

Elizabeth Lund, who has served as Boeings senior vice president of quality  a new position  since February, said before the pandemic most new hires at Boeing factories had aerospace experience, often in the military. Now, she said, considerably more of our employees did not have that aerospace experience.

A representative of the machinists union said Boeing cut back on inspections and training over the last several years. Lund said the company has significantly increased training since the Alaska Airlines blowout, and that the company is trying to improve quality as it focuses on lean manufacturing.

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Can I make one suggestion? safety board member Todd Inman interjected.

Sure, please, Lund replied.

Stop talking about leaner and quality and start talking about safer manufacturing, Inman said.

This photo released by the National Transportation Safety Board shows an opening in the fuselage where a door plug fell from Alaska Airlines Flight 1282, on Jan. 7, 2024, in Portland, Ore. (National Transportation Safety Board via AP, File)

Lund also said Boeing is working on ways to prevent door plugs from being closed if they are not firmly secured, but she could not say when that redesign might be completed.

Boeing production of Max jets dropped below 10 per month after the blowout and remains under 30 per month, Lund said. The Federal Aviation Administration has set a limit of 38 per month until it is satisfied that Boeings manufacturing process is producing safe planes.

FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker has conceded that his agencys oversight of the company was too hands-off  too focused on paperwork audits and not focused enough on inspections. He has said that is changing.

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Ed Clark, the now-ousted man in charge of the 737 Max program during the January incident, still hasnt interviewed with the NTSB.

Incoming Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg officially begins Thursday, one day after the hearing concludes in D.C.

The Department of Justice continues a separate, criminal investigation into Boeing, 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 KOIN.com.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  The Salt Lake County Council voted Tuesday to support the citizen-proposed Rio Grande Plan, which aims to restore the historic Rio Grande Depot as a train station and travel hub.

The plan proposes reengineering infrastructure by moving railroad tracks underground, which the council said would restore the Rio Grande Depot in downtown Salt Lake to its original purpose. The full plan can be viewed here.

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This cherished landmark was once a bustling hub of commerce and travel that greeted visitors with Utahs open arms, the council said in a press release.

The council acknowledged that, with the current infrastructure, passenger trains such as Amtrak and Frontrunner drop riders off at the Salt Lake Central Station  which it said is removed and isolated from downtown and its amenities.

The council met Tuesday with Via Rio Grande, which is a group of engineers who are focused on the improving heavy rail service into and through downtown Salt Lake City, according to the release.

Councilmembers spoke out in support of the plan, saying the plan could benefit Utah in the future.

As we look forward to the Olympics returning, the revitalization of downtown, and rethinking the future of transportation, this proposal is timely and necessary, Council Chair Laurie Stringham said.

Councilman Arlyn Bradshaw represents District 1 and downtown Salt Lake City. He said, It is rare that citizen-led proposals come to the Council so well researched and detailed, particularly transportation projects which are usually government led.

The council said Via Rio Grande was planning a public event on Thursday, Sept. 12, and RSVP forms can be found on the Rio Grande Plans website. Details are as follows:

WHO: Members of the public and Via Rio Grande

WHAT: Reconnecting Communities: The Rio Grande Plan

WHEN: 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 12

WHERE: The Sorensen Unity Center, 1383 South 900 West, Salt Lake City, Utah 84104

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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)  The San Diego Humane Society is asking for the communitys help as they have a new record-high amount of dogs in their care.

The local humane society as of Tuesday says they currently have 844 dogs  660 of those are adult dogs and 184 are puppies.

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The San Diego Humane Society says the community can help out by adopting, fostering, and donating to the shelter, and also spaying and neutering their own pets.

The humane society doesnt only have dogs. They have a wide variety of pets to choose from, including dogs and puppies, kittens and cats, rabbits, birds, reptiles, rodents, guinea pigs and more. Visit sdhumane.org/adopt to learn more.

Ben (Photo: San Diego Humane Society)

Ozzie (Photo: San Diego Humane Society)

Blu (Photo: San Diego Humane Society)

Luka (Photo: San Diego Humane Society)

The humane society says they also offer pet fostering, which is a more temporary way of helping an animal get out of the shelter and to allow space for more animals. Visit sdhumane.org/foster to learn more and to sign up.

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Those who want to help out, but cant take in an animal at this time, can donate to allow the shelter to care for the 1,971 animals they currently have.

Because of the record-high amount of animals at the shelter, the humane society has temporarily paused its Community Spay/Neuter Program. However, there are still other resources for pet owners to get help with paying for spaying and neutering. Learn more at sdhumane.org/spay.

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The humane society is also currently only able to take in owner-surrendered dogs by appointment at this time. To schedule an appointment, call 619-299-7012.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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)  San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, his predecessor Kevin Faulconer and city staff regularly increased spending limits for city contracts by amounts totaling millions of dollars without obtaining the required city council approval beforehand, a recent audit found.

The 50-page report released by City Auditor Andy Hanau last month found 42% of contract altercations amounting to $155 million in taxpayer funds over the five-year period between 2017 and 2023 had been brought to the city council in an untimely manner, retroactively or not at all.

The audit determined these improper approvals, which encompassed about 30% of all contract dollars, often stem from incomplete and inaccurate contract information and unwritten policies that have led to work inefficiencies and staff errors.

These issues, the audit said, stifles oversight and transparency while also opening up city contractors to risks like not getting paid for their services.

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Councils review of contracts is an essential function of oversight and preserves the balance of power within the Citys government, the audit read. Contract alterations without proper approvals prevent Council from exercising its responsibility of ensuring contracts are in the best interest of the City, and limit transparency in City government.

The audit made over a dozen recommendations to address some of these issues, including bringing currently unapproved contracts to the council for approval, drafting updated guidance to clarify requirements for contract amendments, creating a formal process for how contracts are altered, and developing a policy for electronic contract storage and management.

Good contract management in City contracting is crucial for ensuring public funds are used

efficiently and responsibly, Claudia Abarca, director of the citys Purchasing and Contracting Department, wrote in an audit response, where she agreed with all of the recommendations.

The city spends hundreds of millions of dollars every year on outside vendors who help deliver critical services like operating homeless shelters, supplying public safety equipment, collecting waste and maintaining parks.

According to the report, upwards of 16% of the citys annual operating budget is allocated to these contracts.

The mayors office has some ability to amend these contracts without going directly to the city council, but the audit explains that the vast majority of contract changes require city council review and approval.

Notably, local law requires the council  the legislative wing of the citys government  to ratify the change if the cost of increases the contract amount by more than $200,000 or if the contract exceeds five years in length, the audit said.

Contracts with a nonprofit or agency exceeding over $1 million, and those for goods and services larger than $3 million that are not funded through annual budgeting processes are also required to get city council approval, according to the report.

However, as the audit found, a number of spending increases on city contracts did not go through this process ahead of time, if at all.

In a statement, Dave Rolland, Glorias deputy director of communications, said these instances occur with a small percentage of our overall volume of contracts. He added that the city has sought retroactive approval at times to ensure that theres no delay in delivering services to the people of San Diego.

According to the report, 42% of contract alterations between 2017 and 2023 were improperly handled, including 19% that were retroactively approved by the city council and 11% that were not approved at all.

The unapproved contract amendments totaled around $15 million, averaging around $856,000 per instance, the audit said.

One such instance detailed in the report was a $1.6 million, three-year contract awarded in 2017 that was upped to $3 million in 2020 without council approval  a change $1.2 million over the threshold to trigger council oversight.

Of the contract changes that were brought to the council for ratification in an untimely fashion, the audit found most were brought forward either less than three months before their expiration, or over three months after the alterations had already been made.

City spokesperson Nicole Darling said in a statement that untimely approvals or changes to spending limits are often driven by urgent needs combined with unexpected administrative challenges.

She went on to add that the city should update existing municipal law to aid in meeting operational needs while ensuring adherence to contract review procedures.

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Further streamlining sections of the Municipal Code related to contract execution and alteration would help ensure the integrity of city governance is maintained while allowing for necessary flexibility in decision making, Darling said.

However, the audit noted that this is not the first time the citys practices tied to contract management have come under scrutiny.

Previous probes flagged violations of city spending rules tied to contracts, including a report from last year that found it had spent millions of dollars improperly on emergency purchases, as the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

The issues highlighted in those audits appear to remain: Last months audit report said the recommendations given after previous probes into contract spending were never implemented.

In its response, the citys Purchasing and Contracting Department indicated that it aims to implement many of the recommendations outlined in the audit by late this year or mid-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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
The San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors voted to support a measure on the Nov. 5 ballot that would repeal Proposition 47, arguing the 10-year-old state law that reclassified some crimes has hurt Californians.

Proposition 47 was passed by California voters in November 2014. It reclassified some low-level, non-violent felonies to misdemeanors, including drug use, forgery, grand theft, and property crimes valued at $950 or less.

The measure was introduced to tackle prison overcrowding and reduce the number of people serving sentences for non-violent offenses. However, some critics have argued that Proposition 47 has led to an increase in certain types of crimes, particularly property crimes.

Proposition 36, also known as the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act, is a bi-partisan measure that seeks to repeal Proposition 47, and increase punishment for some drug and theft crimes, according to the Legislative Analyst's Office.

The unanimous endorsement of Proposition 36 was made by the board of supervisors at a special meeting last Thursday.

District 3 Supervisor Tom Patti brought the item to the board, stating that he believed the item needed to be included on the agenda so the supervisors could issue "a public statement of support" for Proposition 36.

The dangers of fentanyl, the crime inflicted upon our small business owners, and the encampments that crowd our streets show that previous efforts have not been sufficient response, and we are determined to do more," Patti said.

During his remarks before the vote, District 5 Supervisor Robert Rickman said as a former law enforcement officer, he has witnessed first-hand the "disastrous" effects Proposition 47 has had on communities, including small business owners.

"Our small businesses, our mom and pop shops, put their life savings into their businesses to support themselves and their families, and you see what's going on ... people going in and stealing and leaving, and taking their life's savings with them," Rickman said. "Something needs to be done."

District 4 Supervisor Steve Ding also voiced his support of Proposition 36 and called Proposition 47 "stupid."

"In the restaurant industry, we have kind of a tongue-in-cheek joke that says, 'Make sure they don't steal more than their fair share.' Well, what we've done is legalized it," Ding said. "It's like you might as well put little hallway monitors in the grocery store who say you can only steal so much. This world has gone whacked, and this is one of the first steps to start reversing that."

Did Proposition 47 legalize theft?

Charis Kubrin, a criminology professor at the University of California, Irvine, previously told USA TODAY that Proposition 47 didn't legalize theft of up to $950 worth of goods, as some critics of the measure have claimed.

What Prop. 47 did was reclassify some low-level drug and property offenses as misdemeanors rather than felonies  still keeping them as crimes, Kubrin said.

The proposition's text states those convicted of shoplifting face up to six months in jail and/or fines of up to $1,000, while those with certain prior convictions may face sentences between 16 months and three years.

The proposition notes that "any other entry with intent to commit theft" is considered a burglary. Second-degree burglary, which involves nonresidential buildings like stores and businesses, may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony in what's referred to as a "wobbler."

In those cases, judges may choose to impose a felony punishment of up to three years in a county jail, Kubrin said.

What does Proposition 36 propose?

Proposition 36 proposes stiffer penalties for some drug and theft crimes committed in California.

For example, theft of items $950 or less is currently a misdemeanor. Proposition 36 would make it a felony if the person has two or more past convictions for certain theft crimes, such as burglary, carjacking, and shoplifting. They would be required to serve up to three years in county jail or state prison.

Under Proposition 36, felony sentences for theft or damage of property can be lengthened by up to three years if three or more people committed the crime together.

In addition, sentences for selling certain drugs, including cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, or methamphetamine can be lengthened based on the amount sold. These sentences are currently served in county jail or state prison, depending on the persons criminal history. Proposition 36 would require these sentences be served in prison.

Proposition 36 would allow people who possess illegal drugs to be charged with a treatment-mandated felony instead of a misdemeanor, in some cases. This would apply to people who possess certain drugs, such as cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, or methamphetamine, and have two or more past convictions for some drug crimes such as possessing or selling drugs.

These people would get treatment, such as mental health or drug treatment. Those who finish treatment would have their charges dismissed. Those who do not finish treatment could serve up to three years in state prison.

It would also require courts to warn people convicted of selling or providing illegal drugs to others that they can be charged with murder if they continue doing so and someone dies.

California voters have their chance to weigh in on Proposition 36 at the ballot boxes on Nov. 5.

USA Today reporter Hannah Hudnall contributed to this report.

Record reporter Hannah Workman covers news in Stockton and San Joaquin County. She can be reached at hworkman@recordnet.com or on Twitter @byhannahworkman. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.

This article originally appeared on The Record: San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors support Prop. 47 repeal efforts
SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN)  The San Marcos Police Department and Texas Rangers are investigating an in-custody death after an incident Tuesday evening, according to a Wednesday release.

Police responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls regarding a man on Interstate 35 near mile marker 200. Numerous callers said the man  described as white and in his 40s  was acting erratically, yelling and possibly throwing objects while on top of the overpass over Posey Road. The man was identified as Dennis Thornton, a 43-year-old Leander resident.

San Marcos PD said when officers approached Thornton, he initially didnt respond but then began moving toward officers. Officers used a stun gun on Thornton, who then fell to the ground, per the release.

Police said there was a brief struggling while restraining and handcuffing Thornton, adding he did not coherently respond verbally to questions or commands. Officers said they thought he might be having a medical emergency and took him to Christus Santa Rosa Hospital, where he died.

In a briefing held Thursday morning, SMPD said after interviewing Thorntons girlfriend they learned Thornton had left their home the night before to consume alcohol and drugs. The next day they both went to a hospital in New Braunfels for an appointment for her. The girlfriend then requested the hospital staff to call the police after seeing that Thornton was still acting erratically.

Thornton then left the hospital and officers say it is still unclear how Thornton then ended up in San Marcos. Once officers arrived at the scene they say Thornton was running in and out of traffic. Possibly contemplating jumping off of the overpass.

Once Thornton was taken into custody and then transported to a San Marcos hospital, he was treated for 51 minutes before he was pronounced dead. Medical personnel reported he arrived with a body temperature of 108 degrees.

San Marcos EMS said a combination of mental health issues, dehydration and use of alcohol and drugs may have led to his behavior. They also believe he was undergoing excited or hyper delirium.

San Marcos Assistant City Manager, Lonzo Anderson said the city will work together to assist in the investigation. We will work hard to make this a place where everyone can live, work and play.

The Travis County Medical Examiners Office has been tasked with completing Thorntons autopsy. San Marcos PDs Criminal Investigation Division, the departments Office of Professional Conduct and the Texas Department of Public Safetys Texas Rangers Division will be continuing the investigating.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Two Santa Teresa railway contractors are accused of stealing thousands of dollars in Garmin watches off freight cars and reselling them for profit, according to a recent federal indictment.

Gerald Ditz, 31, and Michael Alaniz, 35, of El Paso, are charged with conspiracy to transport stolen property, one count of interstate transportation of stolen property, one count of mail and wire fraud conspiracy, and one count of mail fraud.

According to the federal indictment filed in the Department of Justice District of Kansas, Ditz and Alaniz may be among more than a dozen co-conspirators  as many as fifteen percent of the workforce  connected to ConGlobal, Inc. The company employs railway workers at the Santa Teresa train station.

Between May 2023 and May 2024, Ditz and Alaniz are accused of stealing Garmin watches en route to the Garmin warehouse in Olathe, Kansas, from California.

The pair and multiple unnamed co-conspirators allegedly sold watches using eBay. The unknowing buyers registered the watches, where Garmin ultimately located the merchandise.

Ditz is accused of selling at least 37 Garmin watches online, most of which retail for between $599 and $1,124. Alaniz is accused of selling at least 15 Garmin watches online, most purchased for approximately $650.

Ditz and Alaniz appeared before a magistrate judge in El Paso last week. They face 55 years in prison 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 KTSM 9 News.
SAPD issues public safety alert after surge in vehicle burglaries

SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The San Angelo Police Department has issued a public safety alert following increased vehicle burglaries over the past month.

According to a social media post shared by SAPD, 59 vehicle burglaries were reported in July alone, with 12 of those cases involving stolen firearms. Authorities also noted that 46 of these incidents occurred without force.

Concho Valley residents are urged to take the following precautions to protect their vehicles:

Lock your vehicles always, even if you leave them unattended for a short time.

Never leave valuables, particularly firearms, inside your vehicle.

Remain alert and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The San Angelo Police Department has asked for the publics assistance in identifying a man suspected of stealing a compound bow from a retail store on Aug. 6.

According to the SAPD, officers were dispatched to the Walmart located at 5501 Sherwood Way at 11:02 a.m. in reference to a shoplifting call. A male suspect had shoplifted a compound bow from the store and left the location prior to law enforcements arrival by concealing the stolen merchandise in a backpack.

A city marshal located the man and attempted to detain him, after which the suspect began to flee from the officer. He was later located again near the DK gas station located at 4316 Southwest Blvd. The subject then escaped law enforcement through water drainage tunnels in the area. A search involving patrol officers and the SAPD Drone Unit was conducted, but the man was not found.

The police department is asking anyone able to identify the suspect to contact it and reference case number 2024-0009108. Tips can also be left through the Concho Valley Crime Stoppers at (325)-658-4357, through the P3 app or through the QR code below.

An image of a man suspected of shoplifting a compound bow in San Angelo on Aug. 6, 2024. (San Angelo Police Department)

A QR code that can be used to access the San Angelo Police Departments online crime tip reporting webpage. (San Angelo Police 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 ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
Sarasota County water levels expected to recede over next few days after Debby floods

As Sarasota County residents and public officials continue to work on the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, many residents are looking ahead to when the intense flooding will recede from their streets and homes.

National Weather Service Tampa Bay Lead Meteorologist Paul Close told the Herald-Tribune that water levels across the region at places like the Manatee River are forecast to come down within the next few days.

By Friday we are expecting the rivers to come back below flood stage, this time assuming there is no real heavy rain, Close said.

NWS did not have any firm estimates on future levels for Phillippi Creek, where water flooded local neighborhoods as high as 10 feet, but Close said he would expect it to begin to slowly recede like other, larger bodies of water.

Up to 18 inches of rain were forecast as Debby approached the coast, but a feeder band  a thunderstorm spiral that emanates from a storms center  developed and covered Sarasota, Manatee and eastern Hillsborough Counties with between 10 and 20 inches of rain.

Hurricane Debby caused a one-day rainfall record in the Sarasota-Manatee area.

The weather service predicts flooding of the Myakka River to peak at over 10 feet on Thursday night  near what is considered major flood stage. Close said that the water levels at Myakka River State Park take longer than other areas so subside.

The Myakka River "is forecast for moderate floods through next Monday, Close said. Once it goes up, it stays up, and so theres at least continued flooding in those areas for a while, but the rest of the area should start to come down, Close said.

When will Sarasota County's flooding recede?

On Tuesday afternoon, Public Works staff began to adjust Phillippi Creek water levels with a control structure, also known as a weir, near the Celery Fields.

Sarasota County spokesperson Cole Washko said in an email that staff does not anticipate the adjustment to increase flooding.

This will allow for decreases in upstream water levels while controlling flows to prevent further downstream flooding, Washko said. We are balancing water levels between upstream and downstream Phillippi Creek in a way to not negatively impact flooding.

Public Works Director Spencer Anderson said in a statement Tuesday evening that Phillippi Creek water levels are slowly receding at inches per hours.

Washko said that barring additional rain, the Phillippi Creek and Cowpen Slough basins are expected to recover by late Thursday night.

Emergency Management Chief Sandra Tapfumenayi said in a statement Wednesday morning that the county is operating a map of local citizen-reported issues caused by the storm.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis visits Sarasota to survey Tropical Storm Debby flooding

Gov. Ron DeSantis visited Sarasota County on Wednesday to survey damage and visit affected local businesses, including Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar. DeSantis announced he made $10 million available in Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loans for businesses impacted by the storm.

In Manatee and Sarasota counties, 30 Florida Fish and Wildlife officers are assisting residents with high-water evacuations, according to the Governor's press release. About 100 people have been assisted by the FWC. The Florida Department of Children and Families will also establish a mass feeding site in Sarasota County and provide staffing for shelters in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie and Maj. Gen. John D. Haas of the Florida National Guard visited Sarasota County on Tuesday to survey the storm damage.

Guthrie told Tapfumenayi that the flood currents were too fast for FDEM to put up dams, so they would most likely begin to deploy sandbags.

Local relief organizations are operating a hotline to help residents with the storms aftermath.

These groups may be able to assist with muck out, trees, tarps and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need, according to a county press release.

The number to call is 1-844-965-1386 and the hotline will be active through Aug. 23.

The Sarasota Technical College evacuation center has been transferred to Woodmere Park. The center will remain open for those impacted by the flooding.

Christian Casale covers local government for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Email him at ccasale@gannett.com or follow him on Twitter @vanityhack

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Tropical Storm Debby flooding in Sarasota expected to recede in days
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.  Incumbent Andrew Bailey secured victory in the Republican primary for Missouri Attorney General over challenger Will Scharf, who conceded Tuesday evening in front of supporters at his watch party in University City.

Bailey, appointed to Attorney General in January 2023 after predecessor Eric Schmitt won a U.S. Senate seat, will advance to the November 2024 general election against Elad Jonathan Gross, who won the Democratic primary.

Three Republicans have held the states attorney general seat since 2017, with the last two, Schmitt and Josh Hawley, now serving as the states U.S. senators. Chris Koster was Missouris most recent Democratic attorney general, serving in the role from 20092017.

Since taking over as attorney general, Bailey has challenged the release of prisoners with overturned convictions, gender-affirming care and ballot initiatives to restore abortion access in Missouri. He has also consistently supported former U.S. president Donald Trump amid his legal proceedings. This is Baileys first term for election after his appointment to attorney general in 2023.

Rapper Nelly arrested in Maryland Heights Wednesday morning

Before becoming attorney general, Bailey also had experience as general counsel for Missouri governor Mike Parson, deputy general counsel for the Missouri Department of Corrections, and in various roles with the U.S. Army.

Around 8:30 p.m., Scharf told supporters that hed just gotten off the phone with Bailey and made the decision to concede the race with about 20% of the votes accounted for, which overwhelmingly favored Bailey at the time.

Scharf was one of the first statewide candidates to concede Tuesday evening.

A former assistant U.S. attorney and policy director, Scharf began his political career in 2015 when he was hired as the policy director for Catherine Hanaway during her campaign for the 2016 Republican gubernatorial nomination. In October, he announced that he had joined the team of lawyers representing former President Donald Trump in various legal matters related to the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

With only three months until the November general election, Scharf said hes planning to fully back Bailey at the polls, also stating that Bailey answered his phone on the first ring and was a gentleman through the conversation.

Scharf mentioned that he understood going into this race that he was the underdog but felt it was his duty to run and serve this state, not just to get into politics but to fight for the people of Missouri and is now ready to focus on being Trumps attorney and getting some sleep.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Current Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey will face Democrat challenger Elad Gross and Libertarian challenger Ryan Munro in the November general election.

The Associated Press and The New York Times have called the Republican primary for Bailey.

"I am profoundly honored and humbled to serve the people of Missouri. With your continued support, we will bring transformative conservative leadership to the Show-Me State," Bailey wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. "We will defend our values, uphold the rule of law, and protect our freedoms."

We did it, Missouri! Together, we have sent a powerful message to the Nation that Missouri is not for sale! 



This victory is for the hardworking Missourians who have fought tirelessly alongside me over the past 18 months. Your dedication and passion have been the driving force  Andrew Bailey (@AndrewBaileyMO) August 7, 2024

Around 9 p.m., candidate Will Scharf conceded the Republican primary to Bailey. Scharf is one of former President Donald Trump's former attorneys and also is a former federal prosecutor.

"Tonight we came up short. We always knew that challenging an incumbent and the Jefferson City establishment would be difficult, and despite the tremendous grassroots energy around our campaign Andrew Bailey has certainly earned a full term in office," Scharf wrote on X. "He has my unqualified support in the general election, and I hope that he will do Missouri proud in the coming years."

Concession



Tonight we came up short. We always knew that challenging an incumbent and the Jefferson City establishment would be difficult, and despite the tremendous grassroots energy around our campaign Andrew Bailey has certainly earned a full term in office. He has my  Will Scharf (@willscharf) August 7, 2024

Bailey took office in January 2023 after Eric Schmitt was elected to represent Missouri in the U.S. Senate. Bailey earned his juris doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law. He was general counsel for the Missouri Department of Corrections, worked for the governor's office under Parson, and was assistant Attorney General before his appointment.

He served in the U.S. Army in Iraq and was awarded numerous medals including two Bronze Star medals.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri primary results: Andrew Bailey beats out Will Scharf for AG
Scientist Claims His AI Can Tell Disturbing Things About You Just by Looking at Your Face

Dystopia Now

A Stanford University psychologist named Michal Kosinski claims that AI he's built can detect your intelligence, sexual preferences, and political leanings with a great degree of accuracy just by scanning your face, Business Insider reports.

Needless to say, Kosinski's work raises many ethical questions. Is this type of facial recognition research just a high-tech version of phrenology, a pseudoscience popular in the 18th and 19th centuries that sought to find links between facial features and their mental traits?

Absolutely not, Kosinski told Business Insider. If anything, he says his work on facial recognition is a warning to policymakers about the potential dangers of his research and similar work by others.

For example, in one study he published in 2021, Kosinski was able to devise a facial recognition model that could accurately predict a person's political beliefs with 72 percent accuracy just by scanning a photograph of their face, versus an accuracy rate of 55 percent by humans.

"Given the widespread use of facial recognition, our findings have critical implications for the protection of privacy and civil liberties," he wrote in the study.

Minority Report

Though Kosinski says his research should be seen as a warning, his work can feel more like a Pandora Box. Many of the use cases for his research seems pretty bad, and simply publishing about them may inspire new tools for discrimination.

There's also the issue that the models aren't 100 percent accurate, which could lead to people getting wrongly targeted.

For example, when Kosinski co-published a 2017 paper about a facial recognition model that could predict sexual orientation with 91 percent accuracy, the Human Rights Campaign and GLAAD called the research "dangerous and flawed" because it could be used to discriminate against queer people.

Add that type of tech to raging culture wars  like misgendering Olympic athletes this summer  and it could be a recipe for disaster.

We already have plenty of real-world examples of facial recognition running roughshod over people's lives and rights, such as Rite Aid unfairly targeting minorities as shoplifters and Macy's incorrectly blaming a man for a violent robbery he didn't commit.

So when Kosinski publishes his research, it may well be intended as a warning  but it also feels a bit like giving detailed instructions to burglars who want to rob your house.

More on AI facial recognition: In Fresh Hell, American Vending Machines Are Selling Bullets Using Facial Recognition
The dismal failure of devolution as a political project can hardly be better measured than by the number of young Scots whose exam results have left their future career plans in doubt.

Education was one of the two main flagship policy areas (the other was health) that Scots voters were promised would be turbo-charged once political decisions about the curriculum and funding of schools were being taken in Edinburgh instead of London.

But the results of this years Higher exams  the Scottish equivalent of A-levels  paint a bleak picture. Not only did pass rates across all categories fall  reversing the trajectory of recent years  but the attainment gap, which measures the different levels of success between pupils from the wealthiest and poorest areas, also increased to its highest ever recorded level.

The overall Highers pass rate, on which applications to university will depend, fell from 77.1 per cent last year to 74.9 per cent in 2024, making it lower than any figure recorded during or since the pandemic. The figure represents the same pass rate as in 2019, which was itself the lowest recorded pass rate for a decade. The Higher pass rate is now at its lowest since the SNP came to office at Holyrood in 2007.

Meanwhile the results among pupils sitting their National 5 exams (the equivalent of English GCSEs) saw a similar drop, from 78.8 per cent in 2023 to 77.2 today.

The attainment gap represents a particular embarrassment for the SNP devolved government. In 2015, then first minister Nicola Sturgeon told a conference of teachers leaders that she was committed to ending the attainment gap between schools in rich areas and those in poorer ones. Let me be clear  I want to be judged on this. If you are not, as First Minister, prepared to put your neck on the line on the education of our young people then what are you prepared to. It really matters.

By the time she left office, in March last year, that gap had widened further, but Sturgeon no longer had to worry about being judged on her failure. Her successors have refused to prioritise the reduction of the gap, perhaps wisely avoiding providing the same hostage to fortune that Sturgeon gave to her partys critics.

The results will also put more pressure on the Curriculum for Excellence, a reform introduced with much fanfare and one that would reduce the emphasis on academic performance and focus more on pupils life skills. But last year, the PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) results showed a decline in reading, maths and science  the three subjects judged on international standards.

There was a time when Scots could boast the best education system in the world. But that was a long time ago, and long before the arrival of the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood.

Devolution was sold to the Scottish people as an opportunity to apply Scottish solutions to Scottish problems. Decisions made north of the border would be better simply by the fact that they were made in a different geographical location than in the dark, terrible era when education policy was dictated from Whitehall. Indeed, it made sense that if we had to have devolution at all, then education would be the first area to be so devolved. The Act of Union itself guaranteed the continuation of a separate Scottish education system and for decades, Scots pride in that system was justified.

But the consequences of nationalism, although always predictable, have now revealed themselves in the hard reality of young careers thwarted or put at risk. Education was never a motivating factor for those who joined the SNP; one issue and one issue alone defined the party, and everything else, whether education, health, the economy or energy, took second place to the ultimate goal of independence.

Making the situation worse was the SNPs commitment to continuing Labours policy of free university tuition, which resulted in a cap on the number of funded places available for Scottish students. As in secondary education, this has had a much worse impact on working class applicants, who now find it more difficult than those from any other part of the UK to win a university place.

But nationalism is only partly to blame; the campaign for devolution was always a sleight-of-hand, promising much that its proponents knew could not be delivered. And Scotlands pupils today are paying the price.

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Scottsdale mayor, council elections will go to runoffs. How will it tip the balance?

The battle between two factions for control of Scottsdale City Hall is far from settled after the July primary election, when neither side won enough seats outright to secure a City Council majority.

Three seats remain unclaimed, but the balance of power will now be determined by the outcome of just two races in the November runoff election.

The primary ticket gave Scottsdale voters a clear choice between status quo candidates and challengers seeking to take the city in a new direction. The latter groups campaign centered around general opposition to many city initiatives, as well as frequent criticism of current leadership over spending, development and affordable housing.

More about the factions: Scottsdale City Council election 2024: What to know as 2 factions battle for control

In the mayor's race, status quo incumbent David Ortega led narrowly over Lisa Borowsky, the opposition blocks only mayoral contender. They are now locked in for the runoff because neither secured the 50% of total votes needed to win outright in the primary.

"My expectations were to win the primary and move on to November with my positive outlook for Scottsdale, Ortega said. (Having won outright in the primary) would be great. It would be ideal. (But) I have high expectations going into the November runoff  the distinctions between myself and Borowski will be (made) very clear.

A similar dynamic played out in the campaigns for City Council, in which nine contenders were battling for three available seats.

Jan Dubauskas, a member of the oppositional slate, was the only candidate who appears to have received enough votes to avoid a runoff.

Status quo block incumbent Tammy Caputi and opposition slate challenger Adam Kwasman were the next highest vote getters.

Scottsdale City Hall, photographed on Feb. 2, 2024, in Scottsdale.

They will appear on the November ballot along with two other status quo contenders: newcomer Maryann McAllen and incumbent Tom Durham, who placed fourth and fifth in the primary, respectively.

"I'm happy that I've got the votes to keep fighting it out until November," Durham told The Arizona Republic.

State of play in Scottsdale: what both factions have secured, need

The opposition group already has two representatives on council who arent on this years ballot and wont face reelection until 2026: Councilmembers Kathy Littlefield and Barry Graham.

With Dubauskas outright victory in the primary, that means the opposition needs only one more candidate to win in November in order to secure a majority on the seven member City Council.

Their hopes lay with Kwasman in the council contest and Borowski for mayor.

The status quo block has just one representative whos currently on council and wont be up for reelection until 2026: Councilmember Solange Whitehead.

Arizona primary election: See who won races across the state

But the group has already won at least one of the two remaining City Council seats because Kwasman is the only opposition candidate left in the running. At this point, its just a matter of what status quo candidate fills that role in November.

That means after the primary opponents will are guaranteed three seats, status quo candidates will take two, and two others that are up for grabs.

In order for the status quo block to secure the majority in the runoff, it needs to win both the mayoral contest and the City Council seat that hasnt fallen into one camp or the other.

What Scottdale voters can expect in November based on the primary results

There is no foolproof way to predict how Novembers election will play out. Voter attitudes can shift dramatically in three months, turnout can change drastically and voter interest in down-ballot local races can be diminished during such a big general election year.

But the primary election results can give some insight into the advantages that either faction could have in the runoffs two most consequential races.

Ortega narrowly lead Borowski in the mayoral contest, although neither secured a majority of the votes cast.

The third mayoral contender, former Councilmember Linda Milhaven, came in last place but received about a fifth of the total vote. She, like Ortega, was within the status quo block of candidates on this years primary ticket.

That similarity puts the incumbent mayor in a better position than Borowski to inherit Milhavens sizable chunk of voters in November, giving the status quo camp a leg up in that race. Ortega would have a commanding lead over Borowski in the runoff if he's able to maintain his primary election vote share, as well as absorb Milhaven's.

But the top-level primary vote count for the council race didnt favor either faction: both slates of candidates controlled roughly half of the total vote, according to the results available on Friday afternoon.

Caputi was the highest vote getter whos slated for a runoff, but the opposition only needs Kwasman to beat her, McAllen or Durham in order to gain control of City Hall.

Kwasman trounced the latter two status quo candidates on July 30 by securing thousands of votes more than either of them. The gap between him and the next highest vote-getter, McAllen, was also substantially larger than the gap between him and Caputi.

The opposition votes may also be more concentrated in Kwasman as the slates only remaining council candidates, potentially giving him an edge in the final council contest and the oppositional group an advantage in the overall battle for council majority.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Scottsdale elections will go to runoffs. How will it tip the balance?
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim as her running mate.

The 60-year-old is a former teacher, national guardsman, and congressman.

Now, he could be the next vice president of the U.S.

Dan Ahlers is the executive director of the South Dakota Democratic Party.

SD Dems, Noem react to Walz VP selection

He calls the selection of Walz a great pick.

As a midwesterner, whats not to be excited about? Hes a governor who grew up in a small, rural town, shares a lot of the same values that we have, Ahlers said.

Michael Card is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of South Dakota.

He thinks Walzs midwestern roots and experience with rural issues may have helped him get selected by the Harris campaign.

Hes not from the west coast. Hes not going to be classified as an east coaster, which I sort of hear vacillations about Vice President Harris as a candidate being an elitist, Card said.

Volk: Does it matter who your vice presidential running mate is?

Card: It matters if theyre a problem. As near as we can tell from looking at vice presidential candidates over the years, if theres an identifiable problem, they can be a problem for the campaign. They tend not to add much.

Governor Kristi Noem weighed in on the pick on social media.

She says Walz is no leader and calls him a radical.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
Scientists have a new ally helping them explore the oceans seabedssea lions. A team in Australia recruited endangered Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea) to carry video cameras down to this little explored region of the ocean. The videos helped the team identify some previously unmapped sea lion habitats in the benthic zoneor the lowest ecological zone in a body of water. The pinniped-assisted findings are described in a study published August 7 in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science.

[Related: How animals see the world, according to a new camera system.]

Deep dives

Our knowledge of the sandy and rocky bottom of the seas is quite patchy. Dives with remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) like Alvin or Jason Jr. from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution can be costly and logistically prohibitive. The vehicles are expensive and require certain weather conditions to dive. It is also simply difficult for humans to get to deep and remote offshore habitats even with high-tech submersibles.

Using animal-borne video and movement data from a benthic predator is a really effective way of mapping diverse benthic habitats across large areas of the seabed, Nathan Angelakis, a study co-author and PhD student with The University of Adelaide and the South Australian Research and Development Institute, said in a statement. These data are useful both for mapping critical habitats for an endangered species such as the Australian sea lion, and more broadly, for mapping unexplored areas of the seabed.

In the study, eight adult female Australian sea lions from the Olive Island and Seal Bay colonies were equipped with small and light-weight cameras. The team glued the cameras and tracking instruments on small pieces of neoprenethe material that most wetsuits are made ofthat were then attached to the sea lions fur. In total, the filming and tracking equipment weighed less than 1 percent of the sea lions body weight. This prevented additional drag and allowed them to move without restriction. The sea lions took recordings over two to three days.

The researchers equipped adult female Australian sea lions from Olive Island and Seal Bay colonies with small and light-weight cameras. CREDIT: Roger Kirkwood

We deployed the instruments on adult females so we could recover the equipment a few days later when they returned to land to nurse their pups, said Angelakis. We used satellite-linked GPS loggers on the sea lions, which meant we could track their position in real-time and knew when they had returned to the colony.

How to predict a habitat

In total, the team gathered 89 hours of animal-borne video. The researchers identified six benthic habitats: macroalgae reef, macroalgae meadow, bare sand, sponge/sand, invertebrate reefs, and invertebrate boulders.

Back on dry land, the team used machine learning models to predict the large habitat areas across the continental shelf of southern Australia. They did this by incorporating data on oceanographic and environmental factors collected over 21 years into the models. These factors may be important drivers of the structure and distribution of these habitats.

[Related: Scientists strapped tiny cameras to beetles to get a bugs-eye view of the world.]

The sea lions from both locations covered quite broad areas around the colonies. In our calculations, we kept the area in which we predicted habitats small to maximize the precision of our predictions, Angelakis said. This allowed us to model benthic habitats across more than 5,000 square km [1,930 square miles] of the continental shelf.

Sea lion vision

The Sea lion cams also filmed different habitats than in some of the previously mapped regions of South Australia. The pinnipeds may not use or swim through certain habitats or have a preference for some areas over others. The researchers also point out that some of the regions may have been missed.

An Australian sea lion swims through ocean habitats in South Australia. CREDIT: Angelakis et al. 2024.

However, the footage still fills in some knowledge gaps about the seabeds, while providing critical information about endangered marine species. Marine populations declined by more than 60 percent over the past 40 years. This method can also be used to survey and assess other marine species of interest that the sea lions caught on camera.

According to the team, assessing a marine environment from a predators perspective instead of a humans can improve our understanding of the benthic environment and develop a more complete map of the seabed.
ABINGDON, Va. (WJHL)  Two people were arrested after authorities searched an Abingdon motel as part of an investigation.

According to the Washington County, Virginia Sheriffs Office, county investigators and members of the Holston River Regional Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at the motel on Wednesday. A news release from the sheriffs office did not specify which motel the search was conducted at.

Greekos to open Johnson City location near ETSU

During the search, authorities reportedly found both methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Two people were arrested following the operation.

Montana Rain Smith, 27, of Abingdon, was charged with possession of Schedule I or II (methamphetamine) and possession of Schedule I or II (fentanyl). Dustin Brock Kestner, 30, of Glade Spring, was arrested on an outstanding capias for probation violation out of Bristol, Virginia.

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Crime Watch

As of Thursday, both Smith and Kestner were being held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority.

In addition to the sheriffs office and the task force, the Virginia State Police, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Town of Abingdon Police Department assisted in executing the search warrant.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Second person charged with hate crimes in acts of antisemitic vandalism at NYC homes of museum leaders, court records show

A second person was arrested Tuesday and charged in acts of antisemitic vandalism at the New York City homes of two Brooklyn Museum leaders earlier this summer, court records show.

Samuel Seligson faces four felony counts of criminal mischief as a hate crime and four misdemeanor counts of criminal mischief for vandalizing, along with others, the homes of Brooklyn Museum Director Anne Pasternak and President and Chief Operating Officer Kimberly Panicek Trueblood in June, according to a criminal complaint.

The investigation remains ongoing, according to a New York City Police Department spokesperson.

CNN has reached out to Seligsons attorney Leena Widdi for comment. Seligson is on supervised release and is scheduled to appear in Brooklyn Criminal Court in November, prosecutors said.

Last week police arrested Taylor Pelton, 28, on the same charges, according to court records. Her attorney, Moira Meltzer-Cohen, has declined comment. Pelton is on supervised release and is scheduled to be arraigned in October, according to the Kings County District Attorneys Office.

Prosecutors declined to comment.

Red paint was splattered on the front doors and windows of Pasternaks home on June 12, and a sign was left hanging in the entrance filled with red handprints that referenced her and the museum, CNN previously reported.

Red inverted triangles were also painted on the windows and doors. The red inverted triangle is symbol used by the Hamas military wing to indicate Israeli and Jewish targets, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

Also on June 12, the vandals also allegedly spraypainted the front and sidewalk of Truebloods building, and hung a banner decorated with red inverted triangles and referencing her by name, according to the complaint.

The United States has seen rising levels of antisemitic incidents since the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, according to data from the ADL. The most recent data from the organization, which has tracked antisemitic incidents in the US since 1979, found a 140% increase in incidents from 2022 to 2023, with a dramatic increase taking place after October 7. According to NYPD data, 329 hate crime incidents took place in New York City during the first half of 2024, with 200 involving Jewish targets.

After Peltons arrest, Brooklyn Museum spokesperson Taylor Maatman told CNN its leadership believes it is crucial to distinguish between peaceful protest and criminal acts.

Our museum has a long history of supporting artists free expression and uplifting people through powerful art experiences, Maatman said. Our vision remains rooted in the belief that art fosters dialogue and mutual understanding among people with diverse experiences and perspectives.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
In a landmark ruling, a federal judge declared Google a monopoly on Monday, citing its practice of paying billions of dollars to companies like Apple to secure its position as the default search engine.

This decision could reshape the landscape of internet search as we know it.

These are the deals consumers never think about. Google reportedly paid tech companies, including Apple, over $26 billion for being the default search engine.

Do you have an iPhone? Any web search is powered by Google. The same goes for Android devices. Using a search engine other than Google requires downloading another app.

However, the judges ruling may open the door for competitors to gain a larger market share.

Several options offer unique features and benefits for users seeking alternatives to Google. Here are three Google alternatives worth checking out:

DuckDuckGo. One of the older search engines, DuckDuckGo prioritizes privacy by refraining from saving search requests or tracking internet activity. It generates revenue through advertising based on current searches rather than user data. DuckDuckGo also provides features like website blocking, tracker blocking, password management, and a premium VPN service. Microsoft Bing. Bing is the default search engine for PCs and the Edge browser and offers a visually appealing start page with news and weather updates. While it stores search history, users can easily delete it. Bing also integrates Microsofts AI tool, Copilot, and rewards users with points for searches that are redeemable for apps and games. Perplexity. Perplexity is an AI-powered search engine that allows users to ask questions conversationally. It delivers answers, links, and suggests relevant follow-up questions. For instance, a search for Bruce Springsteen concerts yields a biography, links to the artists webpage and news articles, images, videos, and further suggestions such as tour dates, links to ticket websites, and how much an average ticket costs.

While Google remains the dominant search engine, it is not the sole option, especially for users concerned about privacy. The recent court ruling may make the search engine market more competitive, offering users greater choice and control over their online experiences.

The judge did not levy fines or penalties after his ruling. Google will appeal the decision.

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The seismic decision in U.S. v. Google, declaring the search engine giant a monopolist, could be a boon to the federal governments litany of antitrust cases against major technology companies, experts said.

The ruling marks a significant win for the Department of Justice (DOJ) as it and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) continue to litigate far-reaching antitrust cases against tech giants including Amazon, Meta and Apple.

This is one of the most important monopoly cases that the Department of Justice has brought since the Microsoft case, said Roger Alford, a law professor at the University of Notre Dame, referring to the landmark antitrust decision against Microsoft in 2001.

U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta found Monday that Google has a monopoly over online search and advertising, which it has maintained through exclusive agreements with partners, such as Apple and Samsung, that ensure its search engine is the default on their devices.

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.

The decision is seismic for the governments antitrust cases and the industry as a whole, said Rebecca Haw Allensworth, a professor at Vanderbilt Law School.

Its a sign that the tide is changing in antitrust law generally away from the laissez-faire system that weve had for the last 40 years, she told The Hill.

Allensworth highlighted the courts holding that econometric evidence wasnt necessary to prove a particular market exists  a preliminary step to determining whether a company has a monopoly.

For many years, the idea that you had to have hard data to prove a market if you were a plaintiff threw up these really high and kind of arbitrary barriers to lawsuits, especially against companies like in Big Tech, where markets arent easily defined using dollars and cents, Allensworth said.

That holding, I think, is really important and will create ripples throughout the industry and antitrust law generally, she added.

Mehtas finding that Googles exclusive agreements reduced incentives to invest and innovate in search was also an important shift, according to Allensworth.

For the last 40 years, only exclusionary effects really have been emphasized in antitrust cases, she said. And to say that we worry about that in addition to and in some ways because of the harm to innovation really turns on its head an argument that tech has been using against antitrust enforcement.

Theyve been saying, If you come after us with antitrust enforcement, youre going to lose innovation, Allensworth continued, adding, This case says, essentially, Sure, but theres another kind of innovation that we worry about too. And in fact, you may actually, as a dominant monopolist, be harming that innovation.

The decision generates momentum for the governments other case against Google and certainly will embolden regulators to put in the resources and time and commitment toward these cases, Alford said. However, he also emphasized that each monopoly case is unique.

The case decided Monday was brought by the Justice Department in 2020. The agency also brought a separate antitrust suit against Google in 2023, in which it accused the tech giant of monopolizing digital advertising technology.

The department also sued Apple earlier this year, alleging it maintained an illegal monopoly over the smartphone market.

The FTC brought an antitrust suit against Amazon last year, accusing the e-commerce giant of anticompetitive practices that harm third-party sellers and shoppers. The agency also sued Meta in 2020 over its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp.

John Mayo, a professor of economics, business, and public policy at Georgetown Universitys McDonough School of Business, similarly urged caution about unduly extrapolating the Google decision to anticipate wins in other cases.

I understand that it may buoy the folks over at the Federal Trade Commission or the Department of Justice antitrust division, Mayo said.

But as a third-party observer, I would say that every monopolization case that I have ever seen is very idiosyncratic, and outcomes are likely to be determined not by the common label of Big Tech but rather based on the facts of each particular case, he continued.

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Sen. Craig J. Zucker (D-Montgomery) in a file photo from 2020. Photo by Danielle E. Gaines.

State Sen. Craig J. Zucker (D-Montgomery) has a new day job.

The lawmaker will become senior vice president of strategic development and government relations for Service Coordination Inc., a nonprofit that provides case management services and advocacy for individuals with disabilities or medically complex needs, and older adults across Maryland, the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia.

We are tremendously excited to welcome Craig Zucker to our team, John Dumas, president and CEO of SCI, said in a statement. His expertise and proven leadership in government and business development makes him well-suited to lead our strategic growth. By embodying our core values of putting people first, his addition to SCIs senior leadership team marks a significant step forward in our mission to enhance services within communities we serve.

Zucker has served in the General Assembly since 2011 and was appointed to his Senate seat in 2016. He has been chair of the powerful Capital Budget Subcommittee since 2021.

Most recently, Zucker was the vice president of business development at Aparagon, a marketing firm in Columbia, where he led strategic partnerships and business development operations, market research and client engagement. He got his start in Maryland politics working for then-Del. Peter Franchot (D), later working for several years in the state comptrollers office when Franchot moved to that post. He has also worked for former U.S. Rep. Albert Wynn (D-Md.).

I am honored to join the incredible team at SCI during such a transformative time, Zucker said in a statement. Their commitment to innovation and community service aligns with long-held personal values.

New chief of staff for Johnny O

Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. (D) named a new chief of staff this week.

Sean Naron, a veteran of Baltimore County government, will take over next Monday. Hell replace outgoing Chief of Staff Dori Henry, who announced plans last month to depart county government for a job with a public affairs firm.

Naron currently serves as director of communications for the Olszewski administration. Previously, he served as press secretary for the administration and as communications director during Olszewskis first campaign for county executive.

Naron has also served in senior roles for Maryland gubernatorial candidate and former Maryland and U.S. Labor Secretary Tom Perez, former Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen, former Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetzs campaign for governor, and former Baltimore City Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.

With Naron heading to a new role, Olszewski plans to name Erica Palmisano as acting director of communications and press secretary. She had already been serving as the county executives press secretary since March 2022.

Previously, Palmisano handled communications and media relations for the Baltimore County Public Library, and has also worked as the assistant director of communications with the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.

Separately, Olszewski said he would nominate Christopher Martin to be director of the countys Office of Information Technology. Martin has served as acting director since April and previously served as deputy director. Prior to joining county government, Martin served for more than a decade in information technology roles with the University of Baltimore.

Martins appointment is subject to a confirmation vote by the County Council.

These dedicated public servants bring a wealth of experience and passion to serve the residents and communities of Baltimore County, Olszewski said in a statement. With these talented leaders continuing their service on our team, we will keep advancing our vision for a better Baltimore County.

Annapolis-based Providence Strategies adds two lobbyists

Lindsay Thompson and Andrew Griffin have joined Providence Strategies as partners, the lobbying firms principals announced last week.

Thompson, a Queenstown resident, joins the firm specializing in agriculture, natural resources, and environmental issues. She started in the Maryland General Assembly as a legislative aide to former Del. Cathy Vitale.

She later joined Maryland Agriculture Associates as a policy and programs assistant before leaving in 2016 to start her own firm, Thompson Ag Consulting.

Andrew Griffin and Lindsay Thompson recently joined Annapolis-based Providence Strategies as lobbyists. Photo courtesy Providence Strategies.

Thompson earned a bachelors degree in political science from Washington College in 2012. She earned her masters degree in public policy from the University of Maryland two years later.

Griffin joins the firm after nearly five years at the Maryland Chamber of Commerce. For the last two years, he served as the chambers senior vice president for government operations.

He also served 10 months as director of boards and commissions in the administration of former Gov. Larry Hogan (R).

Griffin earned a bachelors degree in agriculture and resource economics from the University of Maryland in 2011. In 2022, he earned a masters degree in public management from the University of Maryland School of Public Policy.

Andrew and Lindsay are highly sought-after and talented professionals, and we are humbled and grateful they have chosen our firm as their new home, said Providence Strategies principals Michael Mason and Rory Murray in a joint statement. They fit seamlessly into the company culture we have cultivated, prioritizing work ethic, integrity, and client experience above all else. Their dedication to this industry and their innovative approach will drive our firms continued success and growth.

New directors of development, government relations at The Arc

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region announced the addition this week of Rylie Shewbridge and Caroline Slobodzian as director of government relations and director of development, respectively.

Shewbridge, who has almost eight years of experience representing a range of organizations at local, state and federal levels, previously worked closely with The Arc and its leadership as senior government relations associate at Bellamy Genn Group. In her new role, Shewbridge will collaborate with The Arcs lobbyists and coalition partners, and facilitate the execution of a comprehensive government relations plan, coordinating outreach and engagement efforts at all government levels.

Jonathon Rondeau, president & CEO of The Arc, said the organization is excited for Shewbridge to work with our legislative partners to create a more inclusive, supportive community for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Slobodzian has nearly 25 years of development experience and comes to The Arc from the Clean Water Action Fund in Washington, D.C., where she worked for more than 13 years. At The Arc, she will will maximize opportunities for engagement and growth and support diverse revenue streams through traditional and innovative strategies.Caroline has extensive experience in development and takes a strategic approach to fundraising, Rondeau said.

The Arc said it works to provide person-centered supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live, work, and connect with their communities. We advocate for equity and access for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live self-determined lives and foster opportunities towards self-sufficiency.
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  Senator Rand Paul is set to speak at this years opening convocation at Kentucky Wesleyan College in Owensboro.

The convocation is set for August 17 at 4 p.m. in the Jack T. Wells 77 Activity Center at 3300 Frederica Street.

President James Cousins says, We are honored to welcome Senator Rand Paul to Kentucky Wesleyan College as our distinguished speaker for this years Opening Convocation. Senator Pauls dedication to public service and his deep ties to our region make him a particularly resonant voice to welcome and inspire our newest students. His unique perspectives on leadership and governance are sure to provoke thoughtful discussion. We look forward to the insights he will share and the lively dialogue that will follow.

The convocation will be open to the public and livestreamed on KWCs YouTube channel.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
Editor's note: With Taunton State Sen. Marc Pacheco retiring, the Third Bristol and Plymouth state senate seat is up for grabs with no incumbent running for the first time in more than three decades. Over the past couple of weeks we have been running profiles of the four candidates vying for the seat. Today we feature Taunton City Councilor Kelly Dooner, the sole Republican in the race.

TAUNTON  To say that Kelly Dooner doesnt like the idea of the state making deals with hotel companies to house undocumented migrant families is putting it mildly.

This is my number one issue  its the driving force, she said, in terms of her candidacy for the Massachusetts state Senate.

Now in her second term as a Taunton city councilor, Dooner  who also serves on the citys Planning Board  is the sole GOP candidate on Novembers ticket for the First Bristol and Plymouth Senate seat long held by Democrat Marc Pacheco, who is not seeking re-election after more than 30 years in the state senate.

Taunton City Councilor Kelly Dooner, seen here with her husband Louis Picardi, is running for the state Senate seat long held by Marc Pacheco, who is not seeking re-election.

Taunton hotel being used as migrant shelter

Dooner, 31, strongly objects to the fact that all 155 hotel rooms at Tauntons Clarion Hotel and Conference Center inside Myles Standish Industrial Park, for nearly 16 months, have been used as an emergency shelter predominantly for migrant families.

She says military veterans, who have had trouble finding permanent or long-term temporary housing, as well as indigent families who are U.S. citizens should be given priority for such accommodations.

Taunton Mayor Shaunna OConnell, who has endorsed Dooner in her senate run, previously said she was notified in April 2023 by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development that a contract  which potentially could be extended to last nine years  had been brokered with the hotel.

The mayor subsequently, in March of 2024, said that the city was suing the hotel for more than $100,000 for unpaid fines related to a four-month period when Clarion allegedly violated occupancy limits.

As part of the contract agreement, the state has been paying the Taunton Police Department to provide detail-duty officers so that a police officer is on the hotel's premises at all times.

According to one published report from 2023, the state estimated it will spend as much as $10 million in the current 2024 fiscal year for Clarion hotel rooms, meals and all associated accessories and costs.

We can see firsthand how the state has handled the situation, said Dooner, adding that it has a major effect on police, fire and schools.

Republican Taunton City Councilor Kelly Dooner is running for the state Senate seat long held by Marc Pacheco, who is not seeking re-election.

Would work to change 'right to shelter' law

Dooner said if elected shell work with like-minded colleagues to fashion a bill that would amend and modify the states 1983 right to shelter law.

That law was intended to provide temporary housing and emergency services to homeless families with children and pregnant women who have nowhere to live.

Ive shown that I can work with members of the (city) council, and Ill do the same in the Senate, Dooner said.

5 key facts Contract reveals exactly how much state's paying Taunton hotel to house migrants, homeless

Raynham and Middleboro hotels also converted to shelters

The Taunton hotel is far from the only one the state is using as a migrant shelter. Many hotels have been converted to shelters, including at least two others in the First Bristol and Plymouth Senate district in 2023: the Homes2 Suites hotel, located at 5 Commerce Way in Raynham; and the Quality Inn in Middleboro, which is no longer being used as a shelter, according to reporting by Nemasket Week.

A Taunton police officer works a paid detail on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Taunton's Clarion Hotel, which is being used by the state as a shelter for migrants. As part of its contract with the hotel, the state has been paying the city to provide detail-duty officers so that a police officer is on the hotel's premises at all hours.

Wants to rein in spending, do more to help small businesses

Dooner says the commonwealth cant afford to spend the $1 billion over the next fiscal year thats been projected by Gov. Maura Healeys administration to expand the capability of the states emergency shelter system.

The state clearly has a spending problem, she said.

Dooner also says she wants to restore and update the Small Business Bill of Rights.

That proposed bill was initially crafted in 2014 by Mayor OConnell, back when she was the 3rd Bristol state representative, and a handful of other state reps. But it was never filed.

A lot of people my age live paycheck to paycheck. Many small business owners are barely getting by, said the recently married Dooner, who described her husband as a small business owner.

We need to cut down on hefty fees on small businesses on the state and city level, she said, adding that Massachusetts needs to be more business friendly.

Taunton sues Clarion Taunton sues hotel state's using as emergency shelter. Here's why

Taunton City Councilor Kelly Dooner is the Republican candidate for the state Senate seat currently held by Marc Pacheco, who is not seeking re-election. Dooner wants to see an end to hotels, like the Clarion in Taunton, seen here on Tuesday, July 16, being used as emergency housing for undocumented migrant families.

Supports auditing the legislature

Dooner has issued a press release in which she supports a pending ballot question that if approved will allow State Auditor Diana DiZoglio to audit the state legislature.

When it comes to our tax dollars the taxpayers have a right to know how they are being spent, her press release states.

Who is Kelly Dooner?

Dooner won her first two-year term on the Taunton City Council in 2021 in convincing fashion  the second highest vote getter in a field of 18 candidates vying for the nine council seats. Dooner notes that when she was elected in that year she became the youngest woman ever elected to the City Council in Taunton's history.

She performed strongly in the 2023 election as well, the second highest vote getter once again, this time in a field of 11 candidates.

A Randolph native, Dooner said shes the first female Republican candidate to seek a state senate seat since Jo Ann Sprague of Walpole was a senator from 1999 to 2004.

Dooner serves on the executive board of the Massachusetts Young Republicans as its National State Committeewoman.

She works as a paralegal for a Boston law firm and previously earned a paralegal certificate from Boston University.

In addition to Mayor Shaunna OConnells endorsement, Dooner has appeared as a guest on the WRKO radio show of Boston Herald columnist Howie Carr, who last month spoke at a fundraiser for Dooner at a Middleboro restaurant.

Dooner ran unsuccessfully twice against Democratic challenger Carol Doherty in 2020, in both a special and general election, for the state rep seat vacated by OConnell  after OConnell became a mayoral candidate when then Mayor Thomas Hoye accepted an offer to become interim register of the Bristol County Probate and Family Court.

Who else is running for the Senate seat?

Dooner is one of four local candidates vying for the seat and one of two, along with independent candidate Jim DuPont of Raynham, who are now guaranteed a slot on the Nov. 5 ballot because they have not primary opponent.

On the Democratic side, Taunton City Councilor Barry Sanders and Raynham Selectman Joe Pacheco (no relation to Marc Pacheco) are heading for a Sept. 3 primary showdown. The winner of that contest will face off against Dooner and DuPont.

Which cities and towns are in Senate district?

The Third Bristol and Plymouth Senate district is made up of Berkley, Carver, Dighton, Marion, Middleboro, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Taunton and Wareham.

When is the general election?

The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 5.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Taunton Senate race: Dooner says state 'clearly has spending problem'
Senate Democrats campaign arm will begin airing TV ads on Wednesday in four battleground states, marking the official start of their fall ad campaign.

The spots will target four GOP candidates: Kari Lake in Arizona, Eric Hovde in Wisconsin, Dave McCormick in Pennsylvania and Mike Rogers in Michigan. They are part of a $79 million ad blitz from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

All the ads focus on specific attacks against the four Republicans.

The ad in Michigan knocks Rogers for taking money from Big Pharma and Wall Street and then buying a Florida mansion. Rogers, a former member of Congress, will face Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin after both won their primaries on Tuesday.

In Arizona, the DSCCs ad features footage of Lake telling McCain Republicans to get the hell out. It also warns she will ban abortion with no exceptions and is endorsed by white supremacists and Holocaust deniers. Lake is battling Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego for the open seat.

In Wisconsin, the groups spot casts Hovde as a phony multimillionaire California banker trying to buy a Senate seat in Wisconsin. Hovde, the heavy favorite in next weeks GOP primary, is challenging Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin.

The DSCC is releasing two ads in Pennsylvania. One hits McCormick for saying he would be very, very happy to see Roe v. Wade overturned. A second warns that under McCormicks leadership Bridgewater Associates became the No. 1 foreign hedge fund in China and helped boost its military. McCormick is looking to unseat Democratic Sen. Bob Casey.

Democrats are facing an exceedingly tough Senate map. Republicans may need to flip only one seat to retake Senate control, and they have a near-guaranteed pickup in West Virginia. Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) will have to hold on in states that former President Donald Trump won in 2020. Meanwhile, Democrats will need to reelect all their incumbents and win open seats in Arizona and Michigan.

August will bring an onslaught of campaign ads from party committees and super PACs. Many of the candidates themselves have been on air for weeks.

The National Republican Senatorial Committees independent expenditure is also going on air with its first spot of the cycle on Tuesday. The ad attacks Slotkin for voting to provide stimulus checks to prisoners like former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar.
McNeil Island, seen here, is located in the southern Puget Sound and is the site of state Department of Corrections facilities. (lfreytag/Getty Images)

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.

This article was first published by the Tacoma News Tribune through the Murrow News Fellow program, managed by Washington State University.
Nick Brown, left, Manka Dhingra, center, and Pete Serrano, right, are running to be Washington's next attorney general. (Photos courtesy of campaigns)

Democrat Nick Brown and Republican Pete Serrano are leading the primary race to become the states next attorney general.

As of Tuesday night, Serrano was in the lead with 41.9% of the vote, according to results posted by the secretary of states office around 8:30 p.m. The two Democrats in the race split the remainder of the vote with Brown at almost 36%, followed by Democrat Manka Dhingra with 22.2%.

Brown is the former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington and before that served as general counsel to Gov. Jay Inslee from 2013 to 2017. Hes also an Army veteran.

Serrano is the mayor of Pasco and helped establish the Silent Majority Foundation, a group that has repeatedly and unsuccessfully sued to overturn state gun restrictions. Hes vying to become Washingtons first Republican attorney general in over a decade.

Dhingra is a state senator who has represented a district that includes Redmond since 2017.

The top two finishers in the primary will face off in November, and the winner will take over the position from Attorney General Bob Ferguson. Ferguson, a Democrat, announced last year that he would be running for governor, opening up the attorney generals spot for the first time in 12 years.

All three candidates have highlighted public safety as a priority during the campaign. Although each views the topic differently.

Brown flagged gun violence and the rise in illicit fentanyl as problems hed like to address, while emphasizing that hed like to see more policies that alleviate the root causes of crime.

Serrano also wants to tackle the states fentanyl crisis. He has criticized the Legislature for recent drug legislation that he believes is too soft.

Dhingra said she wants to focus on addressing gender-based crimes, such as trafficking or domestic violence.

The possibility of Donald Trump getting reelected as president is casting a shadow over the race. Ferguson is known for suing the Trump administration nearly 100 times when the former president was last in office. Brown and Dhingra both signaled that they are prepared to take a similar posture if Trump reclaims the White House.

Serrano, meanwhile, argues that Ferguson has overstepped the constitutional authority of the office and has said hed be less active in pressing the Legislature to pass new laws.

Brown has raised the most cash in the race  around $1.5 million, according to filings with the states Public Disclosure Commission. Dhingra has reported about $1.3 million in contributions, a total includes $250,000 of her own money she poured into her campaign late last month. Serrano has reported raising about $225,000.

During the race, Dhingra came under fire after claiming she was on a leave of absence from a job at the King County prosecuting attorneys office, though the human resources department at the office said she was no longer employed there.

Each candidate has also highlighted consumer protections as an area that they would focus on if elected. Brown and Dhingra also stressed that theyd defend abortion rights. In Washington, the attorney general has limited authority to handle criminal cases and generally cannot investigate or prosecute crimes without a request from a county prosecutor or the governor.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  San Francisco International Airport introduced a new logo Tuesday, retiring the previous flight lines logo after 24 years of use. The logo, which was rolled out along with a new brand identity for the airport, marks the airports ongoing commitment to modernization and an extraordinary passenger experience whilst reflecting the citys history and spirit of innovation, according to a news release.

Steph Curry picks a side in the Kendrick Lamar-Drake beef

The revised SFO logo features a representation of a wing in the F and represents the spirit of our rich history, the dynamism of the present, and the boundless possibilities of the future, the airport said.

We are excited to introduce our new brand and logo, which reflects the exciting changes happening at SFO, said Ivar C. Satero, Airport Director. Much like our old logo marked a period of time in the early 21st century, the new logo shows our commitment to deliver an airport experience where people and our planet come first.

The logo, according to the airport, will be phased in over several years. The new logo debut follows an 18-month market research and ideation process, the airport said. It also follows closely on the heels of the Oakland International Airport rebranding itself as the San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Shamima Begum will not be returning to the United Kingdom. The Supreme Court today said the 24 year-old could not further appeal against the ruling of the Special Immigration Appeals Commission, which upheld the then home secretary Sajid Javids 2022 decision to strip her of British citizenship. This means Begum has no further paths within the UK to challenge her exclusion from Britain, although she may turn to Strasbourgs European Court of Human Rights.

Begum now finds herself in the al-Roj detention camp in Syria. In 2015, aged 15, she left her home in Londons Bethnal Green, where she had been living with her Bangladeshi-born parents, to travel to Syria with two school friends. On arriving there, Begum joined Islamic State and married a 23-year-old Dutch-born IS fighter. The girlfriends she travelled with followed similar trajectories; one was killed in an air strike and the other is missing.

Begum was stripped of her British nationality on the grounds that she would pose a security threat if she was allowed to return. She had joined an organisation intent on the destruction of the UK and which had declared war on the whole of the West. This revocation was only possible as Begum was entitled to Bangladeshi citizenship, a fact that the courts have accepted. If she had not been entitled to the nationality of another country, her UK passport could not have been revoked as our courts have held that the home secretary does not have the power to make someone stateless.

Some have argued that Mr Javids decision was excessive, on account of Begums age and whether she had been groomed and trafficked into IS hands.

She has also been treated more harshly than past British citizens who have taken up arms against the UK. Of the very small number of Britons who took the side of Nazi Germany in the Second World War, most returned home and  with two notable exceptions, William Joyce and John Amery, both hanged  received arguably too light punishments.

The wartime comparison is an apt one, as IS too is a genocidal organisation. Its attempts to annihilate the Yezidi people, other non-Muslims and those it regards as heretics must not be forgotten. British citizenship cannot be an absolute right regardless of who that person also pledges allegiance to. Actions have consequences. Mr Javids initial decision, and the courts upholding of that decision, means that there are now clear and justifiable limits to our tolerance.

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Shapiro gets roars as he backs Harris, Walz ahead of rally

Shapiro gets roars as he backs Harris, Walz ahead of rally

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) received rock star treatment in Philadelphia at a rally introducing the Harris-Walz ticket, giving a preview of what his role could look like as a campaign surrogate ahead of November.

Shapiro, who lost out to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) on being Vice President Harriss running mate, entered the event space at Temple University to roaring applause, vowing to supporters that as governor he would continue to focus on getting s done for all of you.

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, Shapiro said.

The governor went on to praise Harris, calling her 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, Shapiro said.

The governor also praised Walz as a dear friend and a great man. Additionally, Shapiro complimented Walzs use of the term weird to describe former President Trump and his running mate Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio).

Tim Walz in his beautiful Midwestern, plainspoken way, he summed up JD Vance the best: Hes a weirdo, Shapiro said.

Harriss vice presidential decision came down to Shapiro and Walz. While Shapiro was once considered the favorite for the position, progressives and pro-Palestinian activists criticized the governor over his stance on Israel and handling of pro-Palestinian protests.

Critics of progressives and Shapiros allies said the attacks were rooted in antisemitism, pointing to Shapiros identity as an observant Jew and his similar stances on Israel to the other Democratic vice presidential contenders.

Its an attack line Republicans have adopted as they seek to go after the Harris-Walz ticket.

At Tuesdays rally, Shapiro made efforts to help his party move beyond the dispute.

Shapiro wrapped his remarks Tuesday, citing his faith.

I lean on family and I lean on my faith, which calls me to serve, and I am proud of my faith, Shapiro said.

While she did not ultimately choose him to be her running mate, Harris will lean on Shapiro to help deliver Pennsylvanias 19 Electoral College votes in November. Shapiro has won multiple statewide elections in the state and is seen as a rising star within the Democratic Party.

Harris offered praise for Shapiro in her remarks at the Philadelphia rally Tuesday.

It is so good to be here with your incredible Gov. Josh Shapiro, the vice president said. Together with Josh Shapiro we will win Pennsylvania.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Shapiro, Kelly, Beshear, Buttigieg, Pritzker: Why Walz beat them all, and what comes next.

Kamala Harris has completed what is likely the fastest vice-presidential vetting process in modern history, naming Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate and crossing off a host of would-be contenders who may yet have a role to play in her administration if she wins in November.

The 16-day sprint to vet and select a candidate  which began when President Joe Biden exited the race and the party coalesced behind Harris  appeared to come down to Walz and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro.

But in the end, the choice was Walz.

"There may have been an experience factor," said Robert Speel, professor of political science at Penn State's Behrend campus in Erie, Pennsylvania. "Walz not only has served as governor for six years, but he also served in Congress for many years before that. He also was an officer in the Army National Guard and served for a couple of decades. Tim Walz certainly has an impressive resume, which may have given him a boost over Shapiro."

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.

Even so, the selection process kept everyone guessing right up to the end, as Harris also considered players such as Arizona U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Ultimately, Harris pick reflects the campaigns desire to shore up its support in key Midwestern states, experts said. Walz has shown an ability to relate to blue-collar Democrats, while at the same time endearing himself to the progressive left.

And by launching the Democrats latest offensive against weird Republicans, Walz has proven hes an effective messenger for the party.

Experts said those who were in consideration for the VP spot are likely to see a boost in attention following the vetting process, even though they didnt get the nod.

To be in the VP selection process, its an indication that youre thought of as somebody whos ready for the national stage, said Joel Goldstein, a retired constitutional law professor at St. Louis University who has written two books on the vice presidency.

Heres a look at likely reasons why those candidates were passed over  and where they may be headed next.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiros candidacy faced opposition on multiple fronts

A moderate Democrat who many considered a frontrunner for the VP spot, Shapiro would have added an ideological balance to the ticket while also helping Harris claim victory in a must-win battleground state.

His candidacy, however, faced opposition on multiple fronts.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visit the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. REUTERS/Kevin Mohatt

The 51-year-old governor's support for private-school vouchers, a Republican legislative priority in states across the country, prompted a group of nearly 30 public-school advocacy groups, all based in battleground states, to sign a letter to Harris last month urging her to pick a different running mate.

They said "the battle lines have been drawn, and full support for public education must be nonnegotiable" in a VP choice.

In 2023, Shapiro had a handshake deal with Republicans to back a $100 million budget proposal to use public funds to send students to private schools, but pressure from fellow Democrats, teachers' unions and education groups forced him to abandon the plan.

Also haunting Shapiro were questions about what he knew about sexual harassment claims involving a former Cabinet member.

Last fall, Shapiro's office quietly settled for $295,000 a claim that a longtime ally had made numerous sexual advances toward a subordinate, as well as lewd comments about the subordinate, other female staffers and a female state senator, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

Shapiro has also divided Democrats in the wake of the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas militants, rankling progressives and Arab-American and Muslim populations.

Shapiro, who is Jewish, has supported Israel's right to defend itself from Hamas, while also calling Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "one of the worst leaders of all time." But he's also refrained from calling for a cease-fire, made references to the Ku Klux Klan in discussing pro-Palestinian protesters, and raised questions about his support for free-speech rights in calling for the firing for University of Pennsylvania President Elizabeth Magill over anti-Israel campus protests.

More: Josh Shapiro's vice presidential prospects spark debate over Israel policy, antisemitism

Some Shapiro defenders have said the popular governor's position on Israel differs little from other Democratic lawmakers and that criticism of him is antisemitic.

With 19 electoral votes at stake in Pennsylvania  more than any other battleground state  some Democrats have argued Harris should do anything she can to get ahead there.

Speel, however, said running mates rarely make a difference in elections.

"That will be irrelevant," he said.

Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly well-positioned to help fill out a potential Cabinet

U.S. Sen. Mark Kellys national stock soared in the past month as his party wrestled with overhauling its White House ticket.

The Arizona Democrat is an engineer and Navy combat pilot who served in Operation Desert Storm in 1991. He also was an astronaut who flew four shuttle missions to space when he left the Navy.

His wife is former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Arizona, who survived being shot in the head in 2011, and, together, they founded an organization that bears her name and pursues gun safety measures.

More: A call from England and two hectic weeks: Behind the scenes of Mark Kelly's frantic VP run

U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) poses with his wife and former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords and Vice President Kamala Harris after being ceremonially sworn into office in Washington, D.C. on January 3, 2023.

One of the things that made Kelly, 60, so appealing to the Harris campaign is his tough rhetoric about the nations southern border. Kelly has called the conditions there a crisis and a challenging problem.

That same rhetoric could make him attractive if Harris wants to set a new tone on the border.

If shes elected, Harris could also look to Kelly, who is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, for some position in the Pentagon or as secretary of Defense.

Kelly has also repeatedly met with foreign officials, including twice with the president of Taiwan, and with the president of Mexico, the president-elect of Mexico and the new prime minister of the United Kingdom. He also traveled to war-torn Ukraine and Israel to meet with the president and prime minister respectively.

Looming over all the possibilities is Kellys Senate term.

He won reelection in 2022, and his term doesnt end until after the 2028 elections. If Kelly joins a Harris administration, it would force Arizona to hold a special election for his seat in 2026, a potentially risky option in the purple state.

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.

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, he said.

Location, lack of notoriety may have worked against Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear quickly hit the campaign trail to tout Harris message after she replaced Biden atop the ticket. And he positioned himself as a foil to JD Vance, Trumps running mate.

Beshear, a moderate, and the lone Democrat to hold a state office in Kentucky, repeatedly needled the author-turned-U.S. senator in media appearances in recent weeks, questioning his blue-collar credentials and his credibility in Appalachia.

Kentucky incumbent Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear delivers his victory speech to a crowd at an election night event at Old Forrester's Paristown Hall on Nov. 7, 2023, in Louisville, Kentucky.

But location matters, particularly in this election expected to be decided in a handful of key battleground states.

While Beshear is popular in the Bluegrass State, itd take much more than his presence atop the Democratic ticket to flip Kentucky from Trump. The former president won the state with more than 62% of the vote in 2020.

Beshear is also a relative newcomer to the national stage.

He grew his popularity during the first several months of the COVID-19 pandemic by hosting televised daily briefings, which comforted many and helped him build significant bipartisan support across Kentucky.

But those TV briefings only were shown in Kentucky. In a Reuters poll last month, 70% of Democrats polled across the nation said they hadnt heard of Beshear.

Walz, meanwhile, built a national profile with six terms in U.S. Congress before winning the governors office in Minnesota in 2018.

Still, Beshear has shown hes a skilled politician, winning office twice as a Democrat in deep-red Kentucky. He previously served as the states attorney general from 2015 through 2019 and could remain on the radar for Harris' Cabinet  if he's willing.

Pete Buttigieg has been under scrutiny as a Joe Biden appointee

Pete Buttigieg, 42, made history in 2021 as the first openly gay Senate-confirmed Cabinet secretary, overseeing the Department of Transportation.

He previously served as a naval officer, and the mayor of South Bend, Indiana, was once seen as a top alternative to Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential race, and has gained popularity through viral cable news appearances.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in the South Court Auditorium on the White House grounds in Washington, D.C. on May 8, 2023.

Buttigieg has a couple of issues, said James Riddlesperger, a professor of political science at Texas Christian University. He is not currently holding elective office and has only been elected as mayor of South Bend, Indiana. As a result, he has less electoral experience than others. And as popular a choice as he is, Indiana is not a key state in the election.

Goldstein, the vice presidential scholar at St. Louis University, said it also may be significant that Buttigieg is the only person from the Biden-Harris administration who Harris appears to have vetted.

A challenge for any vice president running for president is to distinguish himself or herself from the prior administration, he said.

Vice President Harris has done a remarkable job in establishing a distinct identity as the new Democratic leader in the very short time since President Biden announced that he would not seek re-election, Goldstein said. But she may have felt it important to choose someone who supported but was not associated with the administration.

Buttigieg has been under scrutiny by Republicans for the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio; flight delays during the holidays; and antiquated technology used by the air travel industry, among other issues.

Democrats may also have shied away from adding an openly gay man to a ticket that also includes the nations first Black woman presidential nominee.

He could remain in the cabinet in a Harris administration  either continuing as transportation secretary or moving to a higher profile position, Riddlesperger said.

Optics probably played against Gov. JB Pritzker, billionaire hotel heir

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker would have brought a track record chock full of Democratic legislative priorities  and significant personal financial benefits  to the ticket.

Pritzker, 59, has signed legislation raising the state minimum wage, legalized recreational cannabis, banned the sale of semi-automatic assault weapons and ended the cash bail system. And as an heir to the Hyatt Hotel fortune, Pritzker is estimated to be worth more than $3 billion, a huge asset to a presidential campaign.

However, Kent Redfield, professor emeritus at the University of Illinois at Springfield, said the governors wealth actually could have been one of the reasons he was passed up.

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.

He noted that Democrats may not like the contrast Pritzkers wealth creates with Vance, who rose to prominence after writing about growing up in poverty in his memoir, Hillbilly Elegy.

If youre going for appeal to the working man, that kind of optic probably worked against him, Redfield said.

Walz, Redfield said, was also likely seen as a safer option when it comes to the Israel-Hamas war. Pritzker, like Shapiro, is Jewish and has said Illinois unequivocally stands with Israel. The state has also purchased $30 million in Israeli bonds since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack.

Pritzker told reporters Tuesday his immediate focus is continuing to serve as governor.

I really do love the job, he said.

Roy Cooper, taking himself out of the veepstakes race, could be eyeing other positions

Democrats eyeing North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper as a possible VP pick touted his prominence in a critical battleground state and his history of electoral success in a state that often goes red.

Cooper, 67, cant run again for governor because of term limits, and he was quickly identified as a top running mate candidate.

But the popular governor may have his eye on a U.S. Senate race rather than the White House. Some consider him to be North Carolina Democrats top choice to challenge Republican U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis in 2026.

That to me, the Senate race, feels like the major goal and the focus of what he's trying to accomplish, said Mike Bitzer, a political scientist at Catawba College in Salisbury, North Carolina.

As others appeared to be auditioning for the VP role on the trail and on cable news, Cooper took himself out of the running last month. Cooper said he communicated his position early in the process to Harris team.

This just wasnt the right time for N.C. and for me to potentially be on a national ticket, he said in a July 29 social media post.

Democrats werent ready to test a two-woman ticket with Gretchen Whitmer

While Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was once reportedly in the mix of potential Harris running mates, she said she never received a request for vetting materials from the campaign and didnt want the job.

The day after Biden announced his decision to bow out of the presidential race, Whitmer told a reporter she wasnt planning to leave Michigan, ruling out the vice presidency and indicating a Washington, D.C.-based Cabinet position wouldnt be in the cards either.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addresses a campaign rally for presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris on July 29, 2024, in Ambler, Pa.

Michigan-based political consultant Abby Clark, who worked on Hillary Clintons 2016 campaign, said that, as a Democrat and a feminist, shes comfortable with Harris decision to provide some gender balance to the ticket with a male running mate.

We have a glass ceiling when it comes to the presidency thats yet to be broken, she said.

Many Democrats felt that two women on the ticket was probably too risky, she said.

By taking herself out of the mix of potential running mates, Whitmer avoided coming under intense scrutiny that could affect her future political ambitions.

Theres no way you want to go through all that and find out who your enemies are inside your own party if you dont have a real shot at it, said John Sellek, the CEO of Michigan-based Harbor Strategic Public Affairs who previously worked for Mitt Romneys 2012 presidential campaign.

At 52, Whitmer  who rose to prominence with her 2018 gubernatorial victory fueled by her pledge to fix the damn roads  still has plenty of miles to travel in her career, Sellek said.

This is not a sad occasion for her, he said. Shes got a lot of freeway in front of her.

USA TODAY network reporters Samantha Woodward and Stephanie Murray contributed to this story.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Why Walz beat Shapiro, Kelly, Beshear, and where they could land next
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The former fiance of a woman gunned down, along with her current boyfriend, told the victims brother he was going to kill his sister. Less than two hours later the woman was dead and her boyfriend was critically injured, according to a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department arrest warrant.

The ex-fiance Frederick Lee Blanche Jr., 37, now in an Arizona detention center, awaits extradition to Las Vegas where he will face multiple felony charges, including murder.

Gina Martin, 36, and her boyfriend, Brian Marshall, were both shot numerous times when going to retrieve their rental car from a parking lot behind the Avis on Sahara Avenue and Decatur Boulevard on Saturday, Aug. 3. Martin died at the scene. Marshall was hospitalized.

Friends and family came together to honor Gina Martin who was shot and killed at a Las Vegas car rental business over the weekend. (KLAS)

Friends told 8 News Now that Martin, who had recently moved to Colorado, returned to Las Vegas for her 37th birthday celebration planned for Sunday, Aug. 4.

According to the documents, Sean Martin, the victims brother told police Blanche called him and said he was going to kill his sister. The brother asked Blanche to come to his house so the two could talk and he could calm him down. Before leaving, Blanche told the victims brother that he would just show up at Martins birthday party. Martins brother told police he tried to contact and warn his sister but couldnt reach her. Minutes after the shooting, he received a text from Blanche that read, Shes gone.

She loved life, Woman killed in Las Vegas rental car business shooting identified by friends as ex-fiance of suspect

The arrest warrant details how police reviewed video from Metro Fusion cameras as well as security video from the rental car agency. The documents said the videos showed the vehicle later identified as belonging to Blanche as well as the shootings and even picked up Martins voice saying something to the effect of Fred, stop, dont when Blanche confronted her and her boyfriend in the parking lot.

The video shows a man later identified as Blanche approach Martin and Marshall, point a gun at both victims, load a magazine into it, and then begin firing. Blanche fired at Marshall striking him several times as he attempted to get away. He then fired multiple times at Martin who fell as she was running away. He fires two more shots at Marshall and then stands over Martin. Gina could be heard screaming but as more shots were fired, the screaming stopped, the police documents stated.

Witnesses in a nearby apartment complex who called 911 told police they heard at least 20 gunshots and saw the suspect get into a pickup truck and drive away. Police fusion cameras showed Blanch leave the valley and get onto I-11. Blanch was arrested in Buckeye, Arizona.

Martin has been in a relationship with Blanche for about a year before ending the relationship. She began dating Marshall about three months ago, her brother said.

For a list of local and state resources for domestic violence and abuse victims, visit this link.

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A view of the City of Sheboygan's absentee ballot drop box at the Mead Public Library drive-thru, as seen, Tuesday, Aug. 6 in Sheboygan, Wis.

SHEBOYGAN  An absentee ballot drop box has been reinstalled at Mead Public Library following a state Supreme Court decision permitting them.

The city's ballot drop box is at the drive-through lane at the library, 710 N. Eighth St. It is open 24/7 until noon on Election Day. At that time, the deposit slot will lock, and ballots will be delivered to their respective polling locations.

The Ballot Drop Box conforms with the recommended best practices for security measures provided by the Wisconsin Elections Commission, the city said in a news release.

Voters can also return absentee ballots to their respective polling places between 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day or to the Clerks Office at City Hall, 828 Center Ave. Voters can also send their absentee ballots by mail through the U.S. Postal Service to the Clerks Office, ensuring they're received by Election Day.

What to know about Aug. 13 primary: Who's on the Aug. 13 primary election ballot for Sheboygan County? We have the answer.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court's decision July 5 in Priorities USA v. WEC overturned a previous ruling that secure drop boxes were not a valid method to return absentee ballots. Utilizing drop boxes is up to municipal discretion.

Upcoming elections include the partisan primary Aug. 13 and the general election Nov. 5. Call the Clerk's Office at 920-459-3361 or go to sheboyganwi.gov for more information.

Have a story tip? Contact Alex Garner at 224-374-2332 or agarner@gannett.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @alexx_garner.

This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Sheboygan absentee ballot drop box reinstalled at Mead Public Library
DENVER (KDVR)  A suspect is facing additional charges of eluding, reckless endangerment and child abuse after allegedly stealing a vehicle in Douglas County early Sunday.

According to the Douglas County Sheriffs Office, deputies were notified that a Kia was stolen out of Littleton and found the vehicle entering Palomino Park.

Denver police: Thief stole e-bikes using garage remote left in car

The suspects turned off their headlights and drove away when they noticed deputies in the area, the sheriffs office said. It wasnt long before the vehicle crashed on Westbound C-470 between University Boulevard and Broadway.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

After the crash, DCSO said one male ran away on foot and was taken into custody, and the other passengers were released to their guardians.

A suspect is facing additional charges of eluding, reckless endangerment and child abuse after allegedly stealing a vehicle in Douglas County early Sunday. (Douglas County Sheriffs Office)

A suspect is facing additional charges of eluding, reckless endangerment and child abuse after allegedly stealing a vehicle in Douglas County early Sunday. (Douglas County Sheriffs Office)

Around the time the car was stolen, according to the sheriffs office, there were reports of a group of juveniles checking door handles in the area.

The suspects age was not specified, but DCSO said the suspect faces charges of eluding, stealing a vehicle, reckless endangerment and child abuse.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Bellingham and Whatcom County could see some smoky skies over the next several days, mostly from wildfires in British Columbia.

Near-surface smoke and haze from fires in British Columbia and Eastern Washington will likely be pushed over the crest and may filter down through some of the Cascade valleys, particularly over the north including Skagit and Whatcom counties, the National Weather Service in Seattle said in its Tuesday afternoon forecast.

Air quality shouldnt worsen past the moderate level, according to the Northwest Clean Air Agency.

A computer map from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows wildfire smoke drifting across Western Washington on Wednesday.

Some smoke from Eastern Washington and British Columbia wildfires will impact more interior locations like Bellingham, Mount Vernon, and Columbia Valley near Kendall, the air agency said on its social media.

High-altitude smoke may make skies hazy. But ground-level air may actually be good when skies appear smoky, the air agency said.

Jeff Michalski, a weather service meteorologist in Seattle, told The Bellingham Herald that smoke is possible, especially Thursday and Friday.

Michalski said the smoke will be mostly in the upper atmosphere on Wednesday.

Theres a pretty big fire over the border between Okanogan and Whatcom counties, and weve got our own fires, particularly the East Fire. Some of the smoke could be pushed through Thursday and Friday, he said.

Complicating matters is the possibility of showers and thunderstorms that could touch off new fires.

The good news is that the pattern changes by the weekend and clear skies return, Michalski said.
Shortage of Black doctors is rooted in racist history  a $600M gift will help historically Black medical schools address the gap

Fueled by the Supreme Courts June 2023 ruling that bans affirmative action in higher education, conservative lawmakers across the country have advanced their own state bans on diversity initiatives, especially those that might make students feel shame or guilt for past harms against people of color.

This effort encompasses medical schools.

Despite clear and persistent gaps between white and Black doctors  and recent efforts to reckon with racial disparities within the medical profession  lawmakers have tried to advance policies to prohibit diversity initiatives in medicine.

U.S. Rep. Greg Murphy of North Carolina introduced one such bill to restrict diversity initiatives. American medical schools are no place for discrimination, said Murphy, a Republican, in March 2024. Diversity strengthens medicine, but not if its achieved through exclusionary practices  of prejudice and divisive ideology.

But the gaps in racial representation in medicine go beyond a professional numbers game. Modern research shows that the lack of Black doctors helps explain why about 70% of Black people dont trust their doctors, and why Black people tend to die younger than their white peers.

The evidence is clear: America needs more Black doctors.

To that end, former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg pledged on Aug. 6, 2024, to donate US$600 million to four historically Black medical schools. The gifts to Howard University College of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Morehouse School of Medicine and Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science are among the largest donations to any historically Black college or university. Xavier University, located in Louisiana, will also receive a $5 million grant to support its new medical school.

This gift will empower new generations of Black doctors to create a healthier and more equitable future for our country, Bloomberg said in a statement before the annual convention of the National Medical Association, an organization that advocates for Black physicians.

A limited landscape

According to a 2022 survey of 950,000 doctors by the Association of American Medical Colleges, 63.9% reported their ethnicity as white, and just 5.7% Black or African American. But according to 2023 estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau, Black people make up 13.6% of the population, while white people represent 58.9%.

These modern inequalities in medicine have deep roots. As a community health professor, I am always curious how todays racial health disparities formed in the first place. One window into this history is through the official physician directories published by the American Medical Association.

Starting in 1906, the AMA has published directories of all qualified physicians in the U.S. These directories were created to be comprehensive records that excluded quack physicians and unqualified graduates of fraudulent medical schools.

Each physicians record included a variety of details, including their place of practice and when and where they completed medical training.

Between 1906 and 1940, the AMA also insisted on publishing the race of Black doctors. Beside each entry appeared the label col. for colored.

Based on this information, I created a digitized dataset of the 1906 directory and detailed geographic and demographic patterns associated with where Black doctors trained and practiced. Of the 41,828 physicians listed in the 1906 directory, only 746 were Black  or 1.8%.

Dr. R.F. Boyd was a professor at Meharry Medical College in 1902. Heritage Art/ Getty Images

Most Black doctors in the South were trained by a handful of Southern medical schools established to educate African Americans. Over half  57%  of Southern Black physicians attended Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, or Howard University Medical School in Washington, D.C.  schools that are still in existence.

But nearly a third  29%  of Southern Black physicians attended schools that would be closed a few years after the 1906 directorys release. In 1910, at the behest of the AMA, educator Abraham Flexner released a report after studying the standards of medical schools in the U.S. and Canada.

The results of the Flexner report was devastating to the number of Black doctors. Citing low admissions standards and poor quality of education, Flexner recommended closing five of the seven historically Black medical schools that trained the vast majority of Black doctors.

By 1912, three Black medical schools were shut down. By 1924, only two remained in operation  Meharry and Howard.

The consequences of this extremely limited educational landscape for aspiring Black physicians are reflected in the data. In most Southern states, the distance between medical school and practice locations was significantly greater, even before the closings, for Black doctors compared with their white counterparts.

The deep roots of inequalities

To help interpret where Black doctors established practices in the South, I also linked directory data to other historical sources, including the U.S. Census.

What I found was that places with larger Black populations were more likely to have a Black doctor, as were places that were closer to a Black medical school.

Medical student John Muthama gets his white coat during a ceremony at the University of Minnesota Medical School in August 2022. Anthony Souffle/Star Tribune via Getty Images

Many contemporary scholars and activists are looking to the past in order to increase the publics understanding of how race has played a historical role in the health outcomes of Black Americans.

For example, Dr. Uche Blackstock, a Black physician, illustrates many instances of medical racism throughout American history in her most recent book, Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine, and shows their lasting impacts on how Black patients are treated and the quality of health care they receive.

She was one of the first, for example, to warn health officials about the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color. As she wrote in 2020: Black Americans were more vulnerable during the pandemic because of several manifestations of structural racism, including lack of access to testing, a higher chronic disease burden and racial bias within health care institutions.

Without an accounting of how racial disparities in medicine were formed, its much more difficult to determine which kinds of progressive measures are needed to provide redress.

Future analyses will help unpack these racial disparities in greater detail. But for now, both academic researchers and the public can use our data to explore the importance of historically Black medical schools and the lives of Black physicians during the Jim Crow era.

Its my belief that their legacies deserve to be a better-known part of the history of American medicine.

This article updates a previous version published on June 6, 2024.

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: Benjamin Chrisinger, Tufts University

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Benjamin Chrisinger received funding from the John Fell Fund of Oxford University Press and Department of Social Policy and Intervention at the University of Oxford.
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB)  The Panama City Ballet is looking for local talent to showcase their skills as auditions will be held on Sunday, August 11th for their performance of The Nutcracker.

The auditions will be held at Tonies Dance Workshop beginning at 1 p.m. for the 5 to 7-year-olds.

There is a $35 registration fee and a production fee of at least $175 depending on your age.

That money will help fund the production of the play and if you have trouble paying it you can have a business or individual sponsor you, all you have to do is fill out a form on the ballets website.

Panama City Beach City Council discusses 2024-25 budget process

You do not need to be an experienced dancer to participate in the show, the Panama City non-profit is simply looking for people who are passionate about the project.

You can have never danced in your life and come, we can find a place for you. If you have been dancing all your life, even better, come on down, Panama City Ballet Executive Director Tiffany Swan said. You do not have to have anything prepared, you just show up. Were going to give you a few steps and make sure that we put you with dancers that you dance similarly to.

Those ages 8 to 10 will audition at 2:15, 11 to 13-year-olds at 3:30, and anyone 14 and up can try out at 4:45.

The play will be performed for the public at Arnold High School from December 13th to the 15th.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 City of Shreveport has issued its own statement regarding the use of the Louisiana Boardwalk as a "park and ride" location during this weekend's Humor & Harmony Festival.

On Aug. 6, in a press release, the city said "Though Bossier City wishes the festival to be a success the Boardwalk will not be used as a location for a shuttle for this event."

In a press release from SporTran late that same evening, Shreveport officials reiterated that the Boardwalk was not a location and had not been included on any of the graphics presented by the city at a press conference earlier that day.

The release goes on to say that with approval from their management team, The Louisiana Boardwalk was originally included as a Park & Ride location and Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler contacted several in Shreveport city leadership last week to inform them that SporTrans Zip Line Rapid Routes "are not welcome in Bossier City."

Bossier City: Louisiana Boardwalk is not a shuttle spot for Humor & Harmony Festival

"The earlier inclusion of the Boardwalk, and the surprise revocation of that service to Bossier City hotel & casino guests by the Mayor of Bossier City, may be where the confusion lies," the release continues.

Humor and Harmony Weekend graphics for routes and schedules.

SporTran unequivocally states that the Louisiana Boardwalk is no longer a free Park & Ride location for Humor & Harmony Weekend, the 4-day festival presented by 50 Cent and G-Unit Productions and certain to bring untold dollars into the economies of the sister cities, states Leslie Peck, SporTran Director of Communications. We ask any media who mistakenly shared the Louisiana Boardwalk as a free Park & Ride location to issue an immediate retraction, as Bossier City officials have requested.

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Shreveport says do not park at the Louisiana Boardwalk during 50 Cent festival
U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Detroit, won the Democratic primary to represent Michigan's 13th Congressional District, according to unofficial results compiled by the Associated Press.

Thanedar's victory essentially paves the way to his reelection in the solidly blue district.

Thanedar faced two challengers in the primary Tuesday: At-Large Detroit City Council Member Mary Waters and attorney Shakira Lynn Hawkins. No other incumbent member of Michigan's congressional delegation faced such robust opposition from within their own party as Thanedar, who saw top Democrats campaign against his bid for another term.

With 83% of the vote tallied, Thanedar had 54% of the vote, compared to just over 34% for Waters and just over 11% for Hawkins, according to unofficial results.

Michigan's 13th Congressional District is a socioeconomically diverse area where Black residents account for the largest voting bloc. It includes parts of Detroit and Dearborn Heights, along with Hamtramck, Harper Woods, Highland Park, the Grosse Pointes and several Downriver communities.

In the 2022 primary, Thanedar prevailed in a crowded nine-candidate field of Democrats with about 28% of the vote. He went on to win the general election that year by a 47-percentage point margin against GOP challenger Martell Bivings, who will be on the Republican ticket this year after running unopposed in the Republican primary.

U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar, D-Detroit, shakes hands with James Partlan near a polling place at Maire Elementary School in Grosse Pointe on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

Thanedar immigrated to the U.S. from India and rose from abject poverty to become a millionaire entrepreneur. He first emerged on Michigan's political scene during his unsuccessful 2018 Democratic primary bid to serve as governor. He subsequently moved from Ann Arbor to Detroit and won a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives. He's currently serving his first term in the U.S. House of Representatives and largely self-funded his reelection bid.

To win his primary Tuesday, Thanedar overcame opposition from Democratic politicians in Michigan, including Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan who criticized Thanedar's performance in Washington, D.C. when announcing his endorsement for Waters. Thanedar also faced criticism for his defense of deadly Israeli counterstrikes in Gaza in response to Hamas' Oct. 7 attack.

The Democratic primary saw a shake-up when former Thanedar rival, former state Sen. Adam Hollier, D-Detroit, failed to land a spot on the ballot due to fraud and other errors with the voter signatures he filed to qualify for the race. He had amassed support from prominent Democrats after losing by nearly 5 percentage points to Thanedar in the 13th District's 2022 Democratic primary.

Many of Hollier's supporters hoped to see Detroit's Black representation restored in Congress after Thanedar's victory, along with U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib's, D-Detroit, reelection in 2022, marking the first time in nearly 70 years the majority-Black city didn't have a Black member of Congress.

More: 2024 Michigan primary election results

Thanedar has repeatedly recounted the economic hardships he's faced to personally connect with voters in the district.

Thanedar held a serious fundraising advantage over his primary opponents heading into the primary. With about three weeks until the primary, Waters and Hawkins had $17,000 and $250 cash on hand, respectively, compared to Thanedar's nearly $4.9 million, according to the latest filings with the Federal Election Commission.

The 13th District's Democratic primary also saw a last-minute flood of money from a recently formed Super PAC funding mailers opposing Waters and supporting Hawkins. The Super PAC  Blue Wave Action  spent millions to sway voters in the race and won't have to disclose its donors until after the primary.

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: Shri Thanedar fends off primary challengers in Michigan's 13th
Stop, just stop, all of you jabbering away on social media. Do not legitimise evil, wherever it comes from, and do not contextualise or rationalise any of the violence, the racism, the arson, the brick-throwing, the looting and the intimidation. Do not appeal to root causes; down that road lies relativistic hell. The rioters are atavistic barbarians, detestable nihilists; they have no excuses, no extenuating circumstances, no worthwhile message to convey. They must be caught and jailed, and the Kings peace re-established.

The vast majority, but not all, of the attacks on people and property in recent days have been led by far-Right fascists. The attack on a mosque in Southport was an anti-Muslim pogrom, a heinous act; the attempted burning of hotels containing immigrants was a depraved attempt at engineering a massacre. A Muslim-owned shop was incinerated in Northern Ireland, in a sickening echo of race riots past. There have been numerous racist attacks  white vandals hunting anybody looking non-white, and chanting slogans too grim to print. The targeting of immigration lawyers defiles the rule of law. The assaults against police, the destruction of property and the burning and looting of high street shops: the culprits are disgracing Britain.

The security in front of the mosque in my local area has been massively enhanced, with far more guards and stewards, all peering intently at the cars as they drive by. For the first time, a dog unit was parked in front. The fear and worry in that community at the surge in anti-Muslim hate in recent days is palpable. Members of other religious minorities are also on edge: imbecilic bigots have never been good at distinguishing between different non-Christian faiths.

Figures on the mainstream Right correctly refused to display any empathy towards the London rioters of 2011, or Just Stop Oil motorway saboteurs. It is dismaying, therefore, that some this time around fell into the trap of caveating their condemnation with references to the understandable grievances of the left-behind. The degenerates on our streets must be denounced out of hand, no ifs and no buts.

In this spirit, a second category of disgusting violence must also be called out: that being conducted by sectarian gangs, to use the terminology coined by Robert Jenrick, the candidate for Tory party leader. There has been a lot less of this violence than of the far-Right variety, but it deserves commensurate condemnation. This time, it has been the Left that has behaved hypocritically, seeking to downplay hatred.

Recent events in Birmingham were shocking. False rumours had circulated among the local Muslim community that far-Right agitators were about to descend, and counter-activists had gathered. An LBC reporter describes seeing hundreds of men, many wearing hoods and masks, flying Palestinian flags and for some, carrying what appeared to be weapons. The reporter was shouted at by passing cars, told that he would regret being in the area, ordered to leave and chased away by six South Asian men [who] started walking towards us, carrying what looked like a metal pole.

The police were not on the ground; he only saw perhaps two or three police cars drive by, without stopping, over a critical 40-minute period. A Sky News broadcast was interrupted by a masked man on a motorbike who sped up and shouted: Yo, free Palestine, f--- the EDL, and forced the reporters to depart. A man in a balaclava stabbed the tyre of one of Skys vans with a knife. A car was attacked, as was a pub, and a man injured.

Anti-white racism is as evil as any other kind of racism, and must be taken as seriously. The explanation from a police superintendent for the lack of police presence was problematic. He claimed the forces response had been determined after meeting community leaders, helping it to understand the style of policing we needed to deliver. This two-tier approach cannot be the answer, and is undermining equality in front of the law.

I will highlight a third kind of violence this week: that of an Israelophobic or anti-Semitic nature. Some pro-Palestine activists, armed with axes and whips, ram-raided the UK HQ of an Israeli defence firm with a prison van and attacked staff and police with sledgehammers. The factory supplies technology to the British Army, and none of its output is used by the Israeli army (though it would be perfectly proper if it were). More generally, we have seen an explosion in far-Left and Islamist anti-Semitism since the October 7 attacks, and it is becoming normalised in an unforgivable display of double-standards.

All in all, Britain has a massive problem. Our model is a fraudulent sham. Our economy isnt working, especially for the bottom end of the population. It isnt working for entire regions. Our zero-sum game welfare state is crippled by massive dependency and a misplaced sense of entitlement.

We have been lulled into a false sense of complacency by the success stories of the British integration model  the collapse in racism, the surge in mixed marriages, the remarkable progress of many minorities in education, home ownership, income and politics, thanks to the legacy of the meritocratic and capitalist revolution of the 1980s and 1990s.

But this encouraged our centrist, sensible elites to turn a blind eye to the other side of the coin: the drastic decay and decline of opportunity in many provincial towns, juxtaposed with record immigration; the worrying prevalence of extremism, including anti-Semitism; increased ethnic conflict between minority groups; the election of sectarian MPs; and many other below-the-radar tensions.

We need a rethink on immigration, legal and illegal: we are incapable of integrating current volumes. Our long-standing approach to policing, with its proto-colonial emphasis on managing community relations, fetishises a failed kind of state multiculturalism. A colour-blind approach, centred on individuals not groups, is the solution.

We must reject woke identity politics: the far-Right is now adopting its grievance culture, seeking to radicalise elements of the white working class. Policing by consent is ending: we will need a lot more officers, as in France.

None of Britains pathologies justify in any way the racist violence of recent days. The thugs must be defeated pitilessly. This is time for moral clarity.

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DELHI, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH)  A Sidney woman is facing felony charges after allegedly committing welfare fraud.

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith announced that 22-year-old Nalya Jimenez appeared in court on Monday for arraignment on a four-count indictment. Jimenez was charged with Welfare Fraud in the Fourth Degree, a Class E Felony; Offering a False Instrument in the First Degree, a Class E Felony; Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree, a Class D Felony; and Offering a False Instrument in the First Degree, a Class E Felony.

Jimenez was indicted after evidence was presented to the Delaware County Grand Jury. She pled not guilty to all counts.

Jiminez allegedly provided misinformation while applying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). She is being accused of concealing her income from several sources, including a full-time job, that would have considered her ineligible to receive the benefits she was collecting.

It is suspected that Jimenez improperly received $5,679 in public benefits.

I commend the Delaware County Welfare Fraud Investigation Unit for their thorough investigation of this case. My office will continue the work we have done with the Delaware County Department of Social Services to make sure those improperly receiving benefits are held accountable, said Smith.

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(KRON)  A Silicon Valley engineer died in a kayaking accident off the coast of Pacifica, friends said. Zongde Qiu, 45, went kayak fishing on August 3, according to a verified GoFundMe page.

While kayak fishing in the ocean close to Pacifica beaches in California  he fell off his kayak and was not able to get back for some unknown reason, according to kayak fisher and friend Tong Gao. Surfers found the victim and alerted authorities.

Qiu was rushed to emergency care, unfortunately, he could not be revived, Gao wrote.

The San Mateo County Sheriffs Office and Pacifica Police Department did not respond to KRON4s inquiry about the kayaking incident.

The victim was usually cautious, calm, and well prepared for each one of these ocean kayaking trips, Gao wrote, and he was passionate about kayak fishing.

Orphaned mountain lion cub Briar rescued by Oakland Zoo

Qiu is remembered as a devoted father of two daughters. Everybody in our kayak fishing groups heard multiple times that he skipped or canceled kayak trips because he was taking his daughters to extracurricular events like volleyball games, Gao wrote.

The GoFundMe page is raising donations for his family and funeral expenses.

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Sinaloa drug kingpin Ismael El Mayo Zambada could have cartel drug case moved to New York

Jailed co-founder of the notorious Sinaloa drug cartel Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada is reportedly having his case transferred from El Paso federal court to a New York federal court, The New York Times reported.

Zambada's drug trafficking and money laundering case will be moved from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas in El Paso to U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York in Brooklyn, New York, The New York Times reported four people familiar with the situation told the outlet about the transfer of the case.

Ismael Zambada, right, the reputed leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, appeared in a federal courtroom in El Paso, Texas, on Thursday, Aug. 1, accompanied by his attorney, Frank Perez of Dallas.

The U.S. Justice Department reportedly is behind the request to move the trial, the Times reported.

If Zambada 's case is officially moved to Brooklyn, he will be tried in the same courthouse as Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman Loera, the other co-founder of the Sinaloa drug cartel. Guzman Loera is serving a life sentence in a Supermax prison in Florence, Colorado.

No requests to transfer Zambada's case have been filed in Western District of Texas nor Eastern District of New York, court records show.

Zambada has appeared at two federal hearings in El Paso since his arrest Thursday, July 25, by U.S. Marshals at a Dona Ana County private airport in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, a small town bordering El Paso. Joaquin Guzman Lopez, the son of "El Chapo" Guzman, was also arrested with Zambada.

More: Ismael El Mayo Zambada makes second court appearance since being taken into US custody

In his first hearing, Zambada pleaded not guilty to seven federal charges in connection with his alleged role as a leader in the notorious Sinaloa drug cartel.

He appeared at the second hearing in a wheelchair, looking tired, sick and old. In his second hearing, two issues were discussed, including Zambada waiving any conflict of interest his attorneys may have in the case. The conflict of interest concerns were because his attorneys have represented other Sinaloa drug cartel members in the past.

The second issue was whether Zambada would be tried alongside the other Sinaloa drug cartel members who are named as co-defendants in the case. No decision was made during the hearing.

Frank Perez, lead counsel for Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, exits the Albert Armendariz Sr. Federal Courthouse in El Paso, Texas after a status conference for his client on Aug. 1, 2024.

Zambada's attorneys, Frank A. Perez, a Dallas attorney, and Ray Velarde, an El Paso attorney, declined to comment after the second hearing.

More: Take a look inside the plane that carried alleged Sinaloa Cartel leader 'El Mayo' Zambada

Ismael El Mayo Zambada federal charges

Here are the charges Zambada is facing:

Continuing criminal enterprise - murder

Two counts of continuing criminal enterprise

Conspiracy to possess narcotics

Attempt/conspiracy - narcotics - importation/exportation

Laundering of monetary instruments

Conspiracy to possess firearm/drug traffickers and aid and abet

Aaron Martinez may be reached at amartinez1@elpasotimes.com or on Twitter @AMartinezEPT.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Ismael El Mayo Zambada case could move from El Paso to New York
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  A Sioux City woman has been given a suspended sentence after she allegedly set her home on fire.

Amber Wilcox, 34, pleaded guilty to second-degree arson and first-degree criminal mischief, both felonies. On Monday, Aug. 5, she was put on probation for three years. She was also given a sentence of 10 years in prison, which is suspended as part of the plea agreement.

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On the evening of Oct. 15, 2023, according to court documents, crews responded to a house fire on the 2800 block of Marshall Avenue. Officials determined that the fire was intentional.

Wilcox had allegedly been living in the house with her boyfriend, and they had been fighting for several days, resulting in the boyfriend moving out the same day as the fire, police said.

After he left, Wilcox was allegedly seen on her porch by her neighbor with smoke coming out of the house. The neighbor reported Wilcox saying let it burn.

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According to authorities, she claimed she fell asleep with a lit cigarette, later stated someone might be trying to kill her, and finally, she stated she tried to kill herself and refused to speak further.

Previously, Wilcox had also been charged with first-degree arson in addition to the other two counts. However, that charge was dropped as part of the plea agreement.

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Some Siouxland school districts to get emergency grants

DES MOINES, Iowa (KCAU)  Three northwest Iowa school districts will receive emergency assistance grants from the Iowa Department of Education.

The money is to help students who experience homelessness in weather disaster-impacted communities. Those districts are the River Valley Community School District in Correctionville; the Rock Valley Community School District; and the Spencer Community School District.

BNSF confirms plans for 2 controlled blasts of collapsed rail bridge

Officials say districts could apply for up to $80,000 in funding in emergency grants to serve students experiencing homelessness. The money would be used for several things, such as short-term emergency housing, transportation help, and school supplies.

For more information, click here.

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Two sisters have been arrested, accused of setting the fire that killed a 5-year-old boy following a blaze at his Portland Avenue home last month.

Sisters Tiakalya Hendrix and Taquida Hendrix on Tuesday were each charged with second-degree murder and first-degree arson, both felonies, in connection with the death of Malakai Stovall, Capt. Greg Bello of the Rochester Police Department announced late Tuesday. Tiakalya Hendix is 21 and Taquida Hendrix is 31, he said.

The sisters are accused of dousing the front porch of 1290 Portland Ave. with a flammable substance and igniting a blaze around 2 a.m. on July 29, said Capt. Frank Umbrino of the Rochester Police Department.

"The house almost immediately became engulfed in flames, trapping and ultimately killing Malakai and injuring two firefighters," he said at a Tuesday night news conference at the Public Safety Building.

Malakai died Thursday at Strong Memorial Hospital, three days after he was severely injured in the fire. Malakai had been on a ventilator and suffered burns over more than 75% of his body as a result of the fire.

"This was absolutely senseless," Rochester Mayor Malik Evans said at the news conference. "Absolutely senseless for a little 5-year-old kid to lose his life because cowards and people with reckless regard for human life decided to set a porch on fire with no regard to the damage that they would cause to an entire family and to just an entire community."

Evans described the sisters' alleged actions as "a heinous crime for no apparent reason."

Malakai lived at 1290 Portland with his parents, who were out of town at the time of the blaze, and was trapped inside the second-floor of the home until he was rescued by firefighters battling the blaze, Umbrino said. The child was home with a 19-year-old babysitter, he said.

The babysitter was treated for smoke inhalation and two Rochester firefighters were injured while fighting the blaze. All are recovering from their injuries. One firefighter suffered burns to his face and the other suffered from a fractured back. Both remain off the job as they recover, he said.

The duplex was "completely destroyed by the fire," Umbrino said.

Umbrino at Tuesday's news conference said that Malakai and his family "had absolutely nothing to do with the tragedy that occurred. They had no connection to anything that may have precipitated the setting of the house on fire."

He declined to discuss what motivated the arson, citing the ongoing investigation, but noted that 1290 Portland was the intended target for the fire.

He also said that motive was not important.

"This was just a senseless tragedy that took the life of an innocent 5-year-old kid," Umbrino said.

The Hendrix sisters were apprehended Tuesday by members of the United States Marshals Violent Felony Fugitive Task Force, Bello said. Tiakalya Hendrix was apprehended around 3 p.m. and Taquida Hendrix was apprehended three hours later, according to police.

The sisters are scheduled to be arraigned in City Court at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday. Additional charges are pending and will be considered by a Monroe County grand jury.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Tiakalya and Taquida Hendrix charged in deadly Rochester NY fire
When the Lang family of Meadville sold the family business for nearly $2 billion in 2018, the family wasnt finished helping to create career opportunities in Crawford County.

When several of the partners family members decided, you know the community had been good to them for 85 years, they collectively put some money together and collectively decided to start the Ainsworth Foundation, said Bob Sanford, Ainsworth Foundations executive director.

According to the foundations report to the IRS, it awarded more than $1 million to 13 organizations last year representing health care, education, social services and the arts.

One of those benefitting from the generosity of the foundation is Crawford Tech  the countys career and technical school.

This recent event was Crawford Techs annual report card to the foundation and the community.

They helped us rebrand the school, Crawford Tech. You see it all around. We have to brand the school. new logos new colors. They helped us fund completely fund a brand new website, which is a recruitment tool and a marketing tool for us. And now in the last couple of years, weve been running a digital marketing campaign which you saw part of tonight which is just awesome. With those tools our hope is well be able to grown enrollment and help put students back into the community. Right now talking about precision machining and help our business and industry partners fill those positions theyre having so much difficulty doing at this point in time, said Kevin Sprong, Crawford Techs executive director.

Crawford Techs precision machining program has room to grow. School officials would like to double it. But thats a process that takes educating not only students but parents as well.

The parents have to literally sign on the dotted line if a student wants to attend our school. No matter how excited a student is about our program or how badly they want to go to Crawford Tech, if we dont have parental support, that student might not come to us. Part of our goal is to work with the students and specifically the parents to make sure they know what we offer, what pathways we provide and what the education is so their children can be successful, Sprong added.

Crawford Techs programs dont lack student interest. They had more than 400 apply for 200 open positions last year.

The goal of the Ainsworth Foundation is to get more young people focused on what made Meadville the Tool City  precision machining.

They are telling us, we are turning away work because we dont have people to put in those positions. As a school, our goal is to educate those students to be able to go out there and become those employees that they need in such a bad way, Sprong said.

Being such a manufacturing backbone of the country, its crazy we cant get good help and retain good help. That was the starting point, that what started this conversation, said Sanford.

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Sky employees based at the companys west London campus have been told to either stay at home or leave work early as far-right riots continue to take place across the U.K. with hundreds arrested for setting fire to buildings, looting stores, and harassing local residents.

The unrest began after the stabbing of three young girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, England on July 29. False claims circulated on social media that the suspect, now known to be 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, was an asylum seeker. Rudakubana, whose parents emigrated from Rwanda, was a British national born in Wales.

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On Wednesday, police were told to brace for over 100 anti-migration protests and 30 counter-demonstrations planned throughout the country as employees in major cities have been told to stay home from work or close up early. Sky, a company with a huge campus based in Osterley, west London, issued the memo after a reported protest was planned for nearby Brentford.

Members of Parliament have also been warned by the speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, to stay at home where possible if they fear they could be targeted by the groups.

Over 4,000 riot police have been deployed, with 2,000 on standby, as politicians vow every perpetrator will face the full force of the law. Many have been charged so far, and three have been jailed.

Minorities, in particular, are being targeted in the violence. This week, a Muslim couple were reported to have been chased by a white man carrying a chainsaw  later clarified to be a hedge trimmer  at a gas station near Manchester. Small businesses have had their windows smashed and shopfronts vandalized.

Tech mogul Elon Musk has been accused of fanning the flames of the frenzied protests by allowing disinformation to spread so rapidly on his platform, X, formerly Twitter. Far-left politicians in the U.K. have began to call for X to be banned after Musk replied to a post of a riot in Liverpool that civil war is inevitable.

Musk drew further criticism when U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on social media that we will not tolerate attacks on mosques or on Muslim communities, among other statements. A Southport mosque was ambushed as part of the mobs Islamophobic attacks. Musk responded to Starmers post: Shouldnt you be concerned about attacks on *all* communities? Local residents have banded together to repair the damage done to the place of worship. Other mosques have shut, fearing destruction.

The PM has blamed social media for the escalation in the aftermath of the stabbings. Let me also say to large social media companies and those who run them: violent disorder was clearly whipped up online. That is also a crime. It is happening on your premises, and the law must be upheld everywhere.

On Tuesday, Musk reposted a video appearing to show police officers arresting a man for making abusive and hateful comments on Meta site Facebook. Arrested for making comments on Facebook! Musk said on X. Is this Britain or the Soviet Union? Is this accurate @Community Notes.

It is also worth noting that many members of the local community where the Southport stabbings took place are condemning the violence, and family members of the young children who were injured have asked for the unrest to cease.

Critiques of Musk have tried to stress the severity of the billionaire agitating a foreign Government and encouraging extremist ideologies and behavior. Armando Iannucci, Emmy-winning creator of Veep and British satirical sitcom The Thick of It, said to Musk on X: You have no idea what our wonderful country is really like and are, like the planet Mars, both toxic and empty.

Glasgow-born Iannucci has since picked up abusive X posts from people claiming his name does not suggest he is a Brit. At the moment, all Twitter/X threads lead to bollocks, the writer said.

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Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) has won the Democratic nomination in the race for Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenows (D) seat, setting up a prime upper-chamber battle key to determining the majority next year, according to Decision Desk HQ.

Slotkin defeated actor Hill Harper, who is best known for his role on ABCs The Good Doctor, to win the nomination to succeed the retiring Stabenow, who has served in her seat since 2001 and announced last year that she would not seek another term. Stabenow is the first female U.S. senator in Michigans history.

Slotkin has represented Michigan in the House since 2019 and has developed a reputation as a more moderate member of the Democratic caucus. She previously worked for the CIA and Defense Department before her first election to office.

She coalesced most establishment support around her candidacy in the primary, receiving endorsements from various Democratic Michigan officials, including Reps. Hillary Scholten, Dan Kildee and Haley Stevens, and prominent organizations like EMILYs List, Giffords and the League of Conservation Voters.

Harper sought to run to Slotkins left and received the support of former Rep. Brenda Lawrence (D-Mich.) and comedian Dave Chappelle.

Slotkin also massively outraised and spent Harper in the race.

Slotkin will likely face former Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Mich.) in what will be a closely contested race where Republicans are eager to try to win a Michigan Senate seat for the first time in decades. The nonpartisan election handicapper Cook Political Report rates the race as a toss-up.

Slotkin leads Rogers in the polling average from Decision Desk HQ/The Hill by about 6 points.

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Riley Henderson, who formerly struggled with homelessness, discusses life at the newly renovated Driftwood Apartments in Wilmington. (Photo: Greg Childress)

the exterior of a one-story apartment building

On a quiet morning in July, Riley Henderson sat at a cement table in the courtyard of the recently renovated 15-unit Driftwood Apartments in Wilmington to discuss how he landed in the permanent supportive housing complex for people with disabilities who have experienced homelessness.

The bespectacled 20-year-old Henderson shared with NC Newsline that he suffers from anxiety and depression and has experienced a lot of family-related trauma in his relatively short lifetime.

Right after graduation [from high school], my parents started being hostile, said Henderson, who has worked for a major grocery chain. Theyre the reason I wound up in the homeless shelter.

Behind his wire-framed glasses, Rileys eyes twinkle when he talks about his twin passions  meteorology and motorsports. They grow dark like rain clouds when he discusses what he described as an abusive relationship with his parents and a recent 14-month stay in a Wilmington homeless shelter.

Slight of build and well-mannered, Henderson wasnt prepared for rough-and-tumble shelter living.

The worst part of it was all the dangers around me  all the drugs, hostile people, people who were desperate for things, Henderson said. I had a lot of expensive belongings at the time that a lot of people were jealous to see me with. I ended up getting a lot of it stolen.

The move to Driftwood Apartments in June was a positive turning point for Henderson.

I get to have privacy to be able to do what I want to do and I get to have freedom to relax, Henderson said. Basically, I have freedom from the shackles of having to be in that shelter.

Rescuing a valuable community resource

As defined by the National Alliance to End Homelessness, permanent supportive housing combines affordable housing assistance with support services to address the needs of chronically homeless people. The services are designed to build independent living and tenancy skills and connect people with community-based health care, treatment and employment services.

A few years ago, after 15 years, Driftwood was nearly lost as permanent supportive housing for people such as Henderson after its affordability period ended. Built in 2003, the developer used low-income tax credits to reduce its tax bill in exchange for keeping the apartments affordable for 20 years.

According to local media accounts, APG Capital, a Raleigh-based developer, decided to put the property up for sale in 2021 contending it had become too costly to maintain. That put the apartment complex at risk of being converted to market-rate housing by a new owner.

The Cape Fear Collective (CFC), a nonprofit in New Hanover County that works to create systemic change in the southeastern part of the state, stepped in to buy Driftwood for $1.2 million. CFC received a $700,000 forgivable loan from the City of Wilmingtons affordable housing program to rehabilitate Driftwood, which had been neglected and left in disrepair.

Cara Stretch

It was forced to close down, and tenants moved out, and it looked like it was going to be sold at market, so likely a developer or investor would have purchased the property and used it for something else, said Cara Stretch, CEO of the CFC.

Stretch said there is a critical need for permanent supportive housing in Wilmington and that CFC is committed to keeping Driftwood affordable.

This population tends to have disabilities and mental health concerns, so we have a case manager on site all of the time, but I think the real motivation was that this community really, really desperately needs supportive housing, Stretch said.

The Good Shepherd Center, the regions largest provider of homeless services, will provide on-site case management to support residents, while Norco Management will oversee the propertys management services.

Henderson and other residents began to move into the newly renovated apartments in June but Driftwood officially reopened July 25 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the courtyard where Henderson shared his story.

This really celebrates the resurrection of permanent, supportive housing in the community, Katrina Knight, executive director of the Good Shepherd Center, told NC Newsline. [Driftwood] is for people who are particularly vulnerable to losing their housing because of limited income or because of other special challenges and who arguably have the hardest time regaining housing and holding on to it.

A model for addressing a chronic problem

Exploding housing costs in Wilmington  rents have increased more than 50% over the past five years  present major challenges for unhoused residents with mental disabilities and other vulnerable populations, Knight said.

Katrina Knight

Fifty-three percent of renters  20,130 households  in New Hanover County have difficulty affording their homes, according to a recent report by the N.C. Housing Coalition. Families that spend more than 30% of income on housing are considered cost-burdened.

Even folks who maybe have a salaried job are really feeling that pinch, Knight said. The further you go down on the income scale, the more challenging it is for people. If you have a significant disability, have no income or youre relegated to disability assistance or SSI [Supplemental Security Income], it is very hard to compete with the rest of us in this particular climate.

Some Driftwood residents have no income. A goal of permanent supportive housing is to help tenants navigate the sometimes difficult processes of securing the resources they are eligible to receive, Knight said.

If youre really living up to the permanent supportive housing model, you are housing people even before they have income, Knight said. The first goal is to get people off of the streets, out of shelters where theyve kinda got stuck for a year or more, out of their cars.

Even if a tenant never receives government assistance, they can continue to live at Driftwood, Knight said.

A lot of the people that we work with have no income toward rent and utilities, or at best they might have $250 a month to work with, Knight said. Well be working with them to help them through wha can be a very difficult process to navigate, and that is applying for disability assistance but they can live here even if that never comes to fruition.

Knight said Wilmington needs an additional 100 or more such units to support unhoused residents with disabilities who have limited or no income. The Good Shepherd Center is developing as many as 70 such additional units across several sites, she said.

This looks like a small effort [Driftwood], 15 apartments doesnt sound like a lot but for our community, theyre 15 exceedingly valuable apartments, Knight said.

The N.C. Department of Health & Human Services Strategic Housing Plan published in March 2023 calls for the agency to support the creation of 3,500 PSH [permanent supportive housing] opportunities, both through new construction and rehabilitation of existing properties.

Research shows that PSH is effective for those with more severe disabilities and complex needs  including people with severe mental illness, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), people impacted by substance use and substance use disorder, those experiencing chronic homelessness, and people exiting institutions, the strategic housing plan said.

The research also shows that such housing is cost effective for people with co-occurring conditions who are experiencing homelessness and frequently use costly emergency and institutional services, the plan says. And overall, PSH results in positive outcomes on health, including behavioral health, as well as overall housing stability, according to the plan.

Amy Brundle, marketing and communications manager for National Alliance on Mental Illness NC (NAMI), said there is huge need for affordable housing for people coming out of incarceration and inpatient treatment.

These populations need additional community resources to allow them to develop independence and self-sufficiency, so they can become productive members of their communities and avoid homelessness, Brundle said. NAMI North Carolina will continue to meet with government agencies, officials, and lawmakers to ensure we have a seat at the table, so that we can emphasize the importance of addressing this further need for affordable, supportive housing in North Carolina.

LaShanna Fennell

LaShanna Fennell, 39, a Fayetteville native found herself in Wilmington with no income and without a roof over her head.

Fennell sees Driftwood as an opportunity to turn her life around. She talks about the apartment complexs proximity to Cape Fear Community College and UNC Wilmington.

Ive thought about becoming a CNA [certified nursing assistant] but becoming a medical assistant is probably better, Fennell said.

Before moving into Driftwood, Fennell spent five months at Good Shepherd. She said her stay at the shelter for unhoused people occurred after she was illegally evicted from her apartment.

Fennell said she wish shed sought help sooner. She encourages anyone who needs help with housing or assistance with their mental or physical health to seek help sooner rather than later.

Theyre great with help at the Good Shepherd, helping to put your name on the list for housing and having resources and contacts to get your help, Fennell said.
BOAZ, Ala. (WHNT)  A man was arrested after a stabbing incident that left one person injured and caused multiple schools nearby to go on lockdown on Wednesday.

According to the Boaz Police Department (BPD), officers responded to a call along Verbon Street around 9:55 a.m. Upon arrival, officers found a victim lying in the living room of a home with several severe cut type injuries.

Boaz Police say that the victim then identified the suspect to responding officers. Officers determined that the suspect ran away from the area.

Police tell News 19 that the victim was flown to a hospital for their injuries. While searching for the suspect, officers notified nearby schools  including Snead State Community College  and hospitals of the situation and requested that they go on lockdown.

After searching the area and setting up a perimeter, the suspect was found two hours later hiding behind a home on Williams Street.

According to BPD, the suspect has been identified as 23-year-old Donny Nennis, of Boaz. Nennis was arrested and taken to Boaz City Jail.

According to Snead State Community College President Dr. Joe Whitmore, the lockdown that was issued was lifted shortly after noon.

The Marshall County Drug Task Force, Etowah County Sheriffs Office, Marshall County Sheriffs Office, Douglas Police Department, Sardis Police Department, Snead State Community College Police Department, and the Albertville Police Department all assisted during the incident.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
A Biden-Harris yard sign gets a redo in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, July 24, 2024. (Andrea Verykoukis/States Newsroom)

Once upon a time, in a land where I was a much younger woman who had not spent over 25 years in the realm of social justice work, seeing how egos, passion and feelings  along with institutional roadblocks  get in the way of creating justice, I probably would have referred to myself as a leftist. At the very least, I would have said I was strongly left-leaning.

However, after spending the last decade mired deep in the world of racial justice, I no longer claim that label. At best, I am a pragmatic progressive. Or maybe I am just a moderate in denial.

I am not hopeless; its just that after the presidential election season of 2020, combined with the global pandemic, I am less hopeful about peoples ability to play the long game for the greater good of all. I have seen this quite often in the last several years in my anti racism work, where people drop out of the work beyond protests and the immediate moment.

It wasnt always that way though. I grew up in a family where reading the daily newspaper and watching the nightly news was actually a way of life. Some of my favorite memories were listening to the adults talk about local and national politics. My father, having grown up in rural Arkansas under Jim Crow laws, never failed to remind me that as Black Americans it was our right to be informed and a duty to exercise our power to vote. I grew up hearing about poll taxes and the hurdles that my elder relatives went through just to vote. Which is why, even as a mother at the tender age of 19 in 1992, I cast my first vote in that years presidential election. I have never missed an election since then.

Since Donald Trumps presidency, though, it has gotten harder to get excited. However, in late 2019 or early 2020, I became a Bernie Sanders supporter. Initially, I was lukewarm on Sanders because I believed his analysis around race felt weak and he leaned too much into class rather than addressing racial disparities baked into systems and institutions. However, I eventually started to feel the Bern, so much so that I tagged along on campaign events, even getting the chance to meet Nina Turner and Susan Sarandon.

For a moment, it looked like I wasnt the only one who was feeling it, and there was a glimmer of hope with Sanders early primary winsbut, alas, reality pounced in the form of a global pandemic which upended the primary season. Joe Biden, after several early losses, would go on to win the nomination and the presidency.

Honestly, I cannot say that I was ever stoked about Biden, but given the state of the country, I felt that anyone other than a repeat of Trump would suffice. My most pressing concern was a leader who would take COVID seriously and get it contained. Oh, and sure, a little less presidential madness and scaling back on overt racism and xenophobia.

On that front, I wasnt looking forward to a rematch of 2020 here in 2024. While I still was not thrilled about Biden, if he was the nominee, he would get my vote. After his disastrous debate in July, though, I was definitely among those wondering if he was really up to the task. No one ever leaves the presidency refreshed, and while we live in a world with rose-colored lenses when it comes to aging, we have to face reality.

I am sure that I am not the only one who was wondering if we were going to have a real-life Weekend at Bernies situation if he were re-elected. Thankfully, we no longer have to worry about that with Bidens bold decision to drop out of the race and endorse his vice president, Kamala Harris.

I have to say I let out a little sigh of relief upon hearing the news, and while I am waiting to hear more on Harris position on a number of subjects, the fact is that she is well-qualified for the job  far more so than the guy running to get back in the Oval Office despite that pesky felony conviction.

I was not a Harris supporter in 2020, but I am Team Kamala in 2024. So much so that I have joined with the newly formed group called Black Maine for Harris.

I have voted in enough elections at this point to accept that politicians are not my friends and rarely are we going to be in total alignment. I see voting as one of myriad ways that we create change.

This idea almost feels quaint and outdated in this current moment, when many feel so passionate about politics that they want to hold their leaders accountable for any and everything, including things beyond the scope of what a politicianeven a presidentcan do.

At the end of the day, I believe we all have a responsibility to work to create the world that we wish to see, and not just leave it up to the elected officials. Despite what it may seem like, we do have the power to effect change in our sphere of influence, and the more we do that as a collective, the greater likelihood we have for real change.

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FILE - Back row from left, Marius Borg Hoiby and Crown Prince Haakon, front row from left, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Prince Sverre Magnus, Queen Sonja and King Harald pose during a Christmas photo session at Skaugum, the the residence of the Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Norway, in Asker, Norway, Monday, Dec. 14, 2015. (Lise Aaserud/Pool Photo via AP)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  The eldest son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit is under suspicion for causing bodily harm and criminal damage, Oslo police said Wednesday.

Marius Borg Hiby is the stepson of the heir to the Norwegian throne, Crown Prince Haakon, and is the son of Mette-Marit from a previous relationship. He has no royal title or official duties.

On Sunday, officers responded to a disturbance in downtown Oslo and a man in his 20s was briefly detained. Police have confirmed it was Borg Hiby, 27, who faces preliminary charges of bodily harm and criminal damage, one stage short of formal charges, and was released.

Details were unclear but police said there was a relationship between the suspect and the victim. In a statement, officers said they currently do not have information that the victim has suffered serious injuries.

The case was top news in Norway where the royals are popular.

Norwegian news agency NTB said that Mette-Marit had postponed a planned trip to attend the Olympic Games in Paris while her husband Haakon traveled to the French capital. The reason for the postponement was not given.

In Paris, Haakon told Norwegian reporters that it is a serious matter when the police are involved in the way they are, but at the same time it is not right for me to go into the details of the case.

Borg Hiby lives with the royal couple and their two children  Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus.

Norways future queen made headlines in 2001 when she married Haakon, because she was a single mother who had lived a freewheeling life with a companion who had been convicted on drug charges.
'My son was tortured and didnt get help': Manalapan Navy SEAL death hearing to start

Regina Mullens two-and-a-half year quest for justice after her sons death as a Navy SEAL trainee is taking a key step forward  even as the emotional toll over the tragedy continues to mount.

The Navy is convening administrative hearings to determine the fate of two officers who have been accused of dereliction of duty in the February 2022 death of Manalapan High School grad Kyle Mullen. The 24-year-old former football star died hours after completing the notoriously rigorous Hell Week portion of SEAL training due to what multiple autopsies determined was untreated pneumonia.

As reported by veteran national security reporter Seth Hettena, the hearings are an unprecedented step of accountability within the Special Warfare community. The potential consequences include separation from the service with an other than honorable discharge and loss of all benefits, but no criminal penalties, Hettena wrote.

Regina Mullen may be asked to testify at the hearings, which are unscheduled as of now. In the meantime, one of the accused officers who oversees SEAL training, Capt. Bradley Geary, has gone on a media blitz casting doubt on the autopsy results and denying his own culpability.

On Monday, as the guest on a popular podcast, Geary tried to blame Mullens death on performance-enhancing drugs  citing circumstantial evidence in addition to reports that steroids were widely used by SEAL candidates to get through the training.

Im sickened that hes trying to blame my sons character, Regina Mullen, who is a registered nurse, said by phone Monday. Two autopsies, mine and the Navys, concluded it was untreated pneumonia. It had nothing to do with steroids.

Regina Mullen looks over to a photo of her son Kyle in her Manalapan home Friday, April 22, 2022. The investigation is still ongoing into how Kyle died during Navy SEAL training in February.

'Ruin a dead man's reputation': Manalapan mom fears blame shift for Navy SEALs death

Hes making it worse

A 296-page report on the tragedy by Naval Criminal Investigative Services (NCIS), based on interviews with SEAL trainees who witnessed Mullens death, concluded that although he spat up enough blood-tinged fluid to fill a 32-ounce water bottle, was struggling to breathe, could not walk and was delirious and disoriented, he went untreated by the SEAL medical staff, which went home early that day and did not return despite frantic calls from the other trainees.

After the investigation, three officers who oversee SEAL training were offered non-judicial punishments  essentially a reputational hit  by the Navy. One accepted and retired. Geary and Dr. Erik Ramey, who headed the medical department that handled SEAL trainees, declined and now face hearings.

'They won't tell me': Manalapan mom gets no details on punishment for Navy SEALs death

During Mondays interview on The Shawn Ryan Show, a podcast with 2.8 million subscribers, Geary lashed out at the Navys hierarchy as bearing ultimate responsibility for Mullens death, even though it happened on his watch as commander of Naval Special Warfare Basic Training.

I understand the charge of command; I understand responsibility, Geary said, even as he shifted responsibility for the tragedy to Mullens alleged steroid use and policy-setting superiors in Washington, D.C.

He also said Regina Mullen faulting him for Kyles death is not really a great moment for the family and at the same time framed his crusade to vindicate his name as an effort to achieve closure for the Mullens.

Hes making it worse, Regina Mullen said. He thinks hes so above everything. You cant do whatever the heck you want and not be held accountable.

During his podcast appearance with Ryan, who is a former SEAL, Geary was flanked by two attorneys.

He talks about his stress and his lawyer bills, well boo-hoo, poor you, Regina Mullen said. I go to work every day, Im a nurse in the field, and you know what Ive got to deal with every day? The death of my son and hearing him (Geary) spew lies about character. You know how much stress that is on me? He has no idea about stress. He should walk in my shoes. Knowing how my son was tortured and didnt get help  and if he did, hands down he would be alive today.

She added, The whole thing is making me sick.

'I want a court martial': Navy takes blame for Manalapan man's Hell Week death. Now what?

A fellow SEAL candidate speaks

Jake Kuykendall, a fellow SEAL candidate who completed Hell Week alongside Kyle Mullen, said he appreciates how Regina Mullen has both stood up for Kyle and tried to reform medical care for future SEAL trainees in the process.

She lost her son and I cant imagine how difficult thats been for her, but I admire her for not backing down and still seeking justice, said Kuykendall, who lives in Texas.

Kuykendall said that while the SEAL training program certainly provides what this country needs for warfare, that doesnt mean it cant be improved  especially in terms of medical care.

You cant be expecting your nations best and not giving the absolute best you have to offer as far as services in medical and human performance, Kuykendall said. We need to study this and see if we can learn from it. I loved Kyle, but unfortunately we cant bring him back. But we can look at ourselves and learn what we did wrong  and what he taught us about the program and how we should approach things.

Thats what continues to drive Regina Mullen, despite what she called Gearys smear campaign against her son.

Its two-and-a-half years later, and Im surprised with all this stress that I havent had a heart attack, she said. But theres kids who are permanently injured (during training), theyre young, in theyre in their 20s. This is very important to me.

Jerry Carino is community columnist for the Asbury Park Press, focusing on the Jersey Shores interesting people, inspiring stories and pressing issues. Contact him at jcarino@gannettnj.com.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Officers in Kyle Mullen Navy SEAL death will soon learn their fates
Vice President Harris

Vice President Kamala Harris is doing her best to rebrand herself, her record as a radical, and her history. She was picked by President Biden as a DEI hire like his cabinet. A total and complete failure.

No tax relief

The Senate fell short, as expected, of the 60 votes needed to start debate on a $79 billion tax bill that would deliver financial relief to businesses and low-income families, amid opposition from most Republicans and some on the majority side of the aisle as well. JD Vance was not present to vote. He was campaigning.

Trumps obsession

Donald Trumps obsession over whether Kamala Harris is Black or not and whether she has been duplicitous about her heritage is an insult to Black voters. Its as though he thinks Black voters cant decide for themselves whether Harris is Black and whether it matters. They dont need his help with those issues. Or is he, rather than trying to win Black voters, trying to turn White voters against Harris by questioning her heritage, in spite of the fact that her father is from Jamaica, which is historically Black, she attended a historically Black university and has belonged, and does belong, to many Black organizations.

A little history

Quit being offended at the Christian Last Summer spoof at the Olympics. It was not The Last Supper. Jesus was actually Dionysis, the mythical Greek god of celebration and wine. If you dont know anything about Greek and Roman myths, it would be interesting to read some. They are great stories and most have a lesson.

Political parties

Political parties are not mentioned in the Constitution. The Republican party and the Democrat party have the absolute right to run their primaries and to make rules on how to conduct their primaries. And they have the right to change those rules. If a Democrat or a Republican doesnt like the way a primary is conducted he or she may opt to not vote for the party nominee or he or she can vote as they please in the election.

Secret service

Homeland Security was created after 9/11 because of the lack of communications between various government agencies. Now, 23 years later, an attempted assassination of a presidential candidate is blamed on a failure to communicate between Secret Service and local law enforcement. How much more time do we need to get it right?

Poor California

I pride myself on keeping up with the political news, but I have been remiss, because somehow I missed the total destruction of California, engineered by Kamala Harris, as a Sound Off writer states. And I thought it was wildfires that were the real danger.

Send your Sound Offs to soundoff@sunherald.com.
(Bloomberg) -- South Africa will need to urgently address crippling infrastructure bottlenecks or risk derailing a budding economic recovery, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Most Read from Bloomberg

These challenges have left Africas most industrialized economy struggling to sustain growth for the last decade.

READ: South Africa Can Fix Backlogged Ports in a Year, Minister Says

Thea Fourie, Director for Sub-Saharan Africa Economics and Risk at S&P Global, warned that without urgent action, the country risks falling further behind.

Addressing infrastructure bottlenecks in energy, ports, rail, and water is crucial for overcoming institutional weakness and driving growth, said Fourie at a Bloomberg event Tuesday.

While the May elections brought a flicker of hope, providing a window of opportunity, success in making reforms sustainable would hinge on political stability and a focus on implementing genuine change.

The inefficiency with logistics and electricity remain significant constraints on growth according to S&P Global Ratings, which projects South Africas economy to grow by 1.1% in 2024 and an average of 1.3% over 2025-2027, from 0.6% in 2023. On a per capita basis, real growth will be about zero this year.

The rating company assesses the countrys foreign currency rating at BB-/B and local currency rating at BB/B with a stable outlook.

Critical reforms such as the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill, which aims to reduce obstacles to the production and sale of electricity, could be pivotal in resolving the energy crisis that has plagued the nation. Similarly, the push to increase private sector participation in developing major ports like Durban and Richards Bay signals a positive shift toward unlocking economic potential, said Fourie.

She said the sustainability of the government of national unity, which had been met with much investor optimism, was a key risk, since there was the chance of policy paralysis as parties struggle to find common ground on important issues.

The African National Congress formed the government of national unity after a May 29 election cost it its parliamentary majority, leading to the partys coalition with business-friendly parties including the Democratic Alliance, which has historically held divergent views.

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HUGER, S.C. (WCBD)  A family was rescued Tuesday afternoon after a Huger community creek flash flooded following heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby.

The National Weather Service warned residents to take action after French Quarter Creek reached a major flood stage shortly after 4 p.m. The creek rose about a foot within six hours.

Berkeley County Emergency Operations received the call for help around 5:30 p.m., according to the Berkeley County Sheriffs Office. A swiftwater crew was dispatched and rescued the individuals.

No other families were rescued. In 2015, the U.S. Coast Guard was called to rescue stranded individuals from their rooftops due to heavy flooding in the area.

French Quarter Creek Road will remain flooded, and some sections of the road could be under a foot or more of water, making the road impassable, according to Storm Team 2 Meteorologist Jed Christoph.

The sheriffs office said rescuers will continue to monitor the area. As of 9:04 p.m. Tuesday, family members were performing boat rescues for those still stuck in homes along the creek.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
South Trimble Road to close for 45 days during construction of B&O Trail connector

South Trimble Road between Marion Avenue and Cook Road will be closed for 45 days starting Aug. 19 as the project gets under way to connect Trimble Road to the Richland B&O Trail.

Mansfield City Engineer Bob Bianchi said the detour will be Cook Road to Lexington Avenue to Cline Avenue to Marion Avenue.

Woodland Road will be closed during the duration of the construction of the tunnel or culvert, which, when completed, will avoid pedestrians from crossing traffic on Trimble Road, Bianchi said.

A 1.1-mile trail will be constructed in February through the land conversancy/OhioHealth Systems property to the B&O Trail. The project is expected to be done Oct. 25, 2025, Bianchi said.

A sign warns traffic of a future road closure on Trimble Road to work on the Richland B&O Bike Trail connection.

Bianchi earlier said this portion of the bike trail will be 1.1 miles long and 10 feet wide. It will be concrete instead of asphalt.

"We want to build this trail to make it last," Bianchi said. "It would last for decades."

He said a portion of the trail would go over wetlands and proposed a boardwalk.

Trails is 18.4-mile paved area built on railroad bed

The bike trail is a paved 18.4-mile trail built on the railroad bed of the former Baltimore and Ohio Railway and stretches from Mansfield to Butler.

In August 2022, Mansfield City Council allotted $500,000 to extend the Richland B&O Bike Trail to Trimble Road, another step toward connecting trails to the downtown.

In August 2022, Richland County commissioners agreed to commit $500,000. The plan calls for the county to waive a $500,000 annual payment the city makes to house city prisoners in the county jail and for the city to use that general fund money to pay for its share of the bike trail.

In return, the county will use its ARPA revenue replacement dollars to cover the cost of the payment waiver.

Cost is $1.75 million; project gets $900,000 grant

State Rep. Marilyn John previously announced $150,000 would be set aside in the capital budget for the project. In addition, the city is applying to Richland County Regional Planning for a $900,000 grant.

The total cost of the project will be $1.75 million.

Jason Larson, executive director of the Richland County Park District, said, "The park district is looking forward to the eventual connection of the RCPD B&O Trail to the other trail systems in Mansfield. Please note that the Trimble Road connector trail and the tunnel will be owned and directed by the City of Mansfield. The park district will be under an eventual agreement to provide basic maintenance for the Trimble Road connector trail for the city, but we have no jurisdiction regarding the tunnel, nor will its maintenance, etc. fall under the park district."

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This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Work to connect Trimble Road, B&O Trail begins Aug. 19; road to close
The Riverside County District Attorneys Office is asking for new leads to help solve the murder of a Long Beach woman whose body was discovered 36 years ago in the Inland Empire.

On Dec. 26, 1988, the body of a 25-year-old woman was found in Perris on the 300 block of East 4th Street, officials said.

For decades, the womans identity was a mystery until the Riverside County Regional Cold Case Team took up the case, had her body exhumed and used the latest genealogical technology to determine she was Jacqueline Danette Ebel.

Thanks to these renewed efforts, authorities have been able to learn more about Ebel, who had been reported missing in Long Beach just days prior to her body being found.

Jackie, as she was known to loved ones, had lived in Long Beach and Bellflower at times and had previously used Yonkers and Palmer as surnames.

Jacqueline Ebel, seen in this family photo provided by the Riverside County District Attorneys Office, was found dead after she was reported missing in December 1988.

Jacqueline Ebel, seen in this family photo provided by the Riverside County District Attorneys Office, was found dead after she was reported missing in December 1988.

Jacqueline Ebel, seen in this family photo provided by the Riverside County District Attorneys Office, was found dead after she was reported missing in December 1988.

She was a white woman with auburn hair and blue eyes, standing around 5 feet 5 inches and weighing around 130 pounds, authorities said. She had various tattoos, including a horse and flower on her right shoulder blade, the name John and a Harley Davidson eagle on her left shoulder blade, and a rose and Stoney written on her lower abdomen.

Ebony Caviness, senior investigator with the Cold Case Homicide Team, said it was their greatest desire to grant dignity and justice to this victim and her family.

Authorities are asking for the publics help to find the person responsible for Jackie Ebels death, urging anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward by contacting the Cold Case team by email or by calling the Cold Case Hotline at 951-955-5567.

They add that anyone who believes they may be related to a victim of an unsolved homicide can contact GedMatch for a DNA comparison.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Editor's note: This story was updated on Aug. 7, 2024, at 4:15 p.m. to reflect Heading Home's status as a registered nonprofit seeking 501(c)3 status.

Local advocates for unhoused people suggested spending millions of dollars to hire more case workers, to stop services to homeless people from outside the region and to create in the next six years 3,000 housing units that cost less than $500 a month.

The advocates and Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson unveiled the Housing Action Plan Tuesday at city hall.

Mary Morgan, director of Heading Home of South Central Indiana, formerly a United Way program tasked with making homelessness brief, rare and non-repeating, said while local providers are working hard every year to get people into permanent housing, their efforts are not enough to reduce the problem. Heading Home registered with the state of Indiana in late April of this year to become an independent nonprofit. Morgan said the program is seeking 501(c)3 status.

The numbers are definitely increasing  particularly for unsheltered (people), Morgan said Tuesday. Thats why this plan is primarily focused on street homelessness.

Ideally, the community would at least reach an equilibrium between the number of people who fall into homelessness and the number of people who find permanent housing, she said.

According to a May survey from Heading Home, 249 households were homeless in Monroe County, though Morgan said that was likely an undercount.

The advocates, which include leaders with Beacon Inc., Wheeler Mission, New Hope for Families and others, issued eight recommendations after meeting over a two-month period. They said the challenge cannot be addressed without a broad coalition of stakeholders that includes local employers, township trustees, Indiana University, IU Health, Monroe County and the city of Bloomington.

And Thomson said local funding alone cannot address the challenge and help from state and federal government will be critical, especially in creating more affordable housing.

The advocates recommend stakeholders create 1,000 housing units by 2027 with rents of no more than $500, and 2,000 additional units by the end of 2030.

While most of the recommendations include an estimated cost and a funding source, the housing component provided no specifics, listing only that the effort would require significant investment from multiple sources.

Morgan said via email Tuesday the advocates weren't specific "because there are so many variables that would affect the costs related to this recommendation.

"For example, it would be most expensive to build new units  tens of millions of dollars to achieve our goals. So especially to reach our shorter-term goals, we'll be exploring options like converting a hotel to single-room occupancy units, or partnering with developers on LIHTC (low-income housing tax credit) projects, or creating a home-sharing program."

Thomson said, Its more than what the city alone can do.

While she said the nuts and bolts of the creation of additional housing units have not yet been identified, she said she has talked with representatives in Washington, D.C., a director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness and mayors from around the nation to see how they can together attack the homelessness crisis.

To be clear, creation of new housing at $500 or less, you cant do it right now, she said. So we need some subsidy to make that happen.

Moratorium on helping homeless people from out of town

To more effectively use the communitys limited resources, the advocates  except Wheeler Mission  also are calling for a temporary stop of welcoming people from outside the region to emergency shelters.

We cant say yes to everyone, Thomson said.

If the community spreads its limited resources too thin  by trying to help everyone who needs help  it will end up helping no one, because no one will receive adequate services, she said.

The advocates recommended for one year, services at overnight shelters be given to people from the region  Morgan, Monroe, Owen, Lawrence, Greene and Martin counties  and non-regional residents will be capped at 10 days of shelter/services, while providers work toward returning them to a location where shelters are available and the clients have an existing support network.

The advocates said that effort would cost about $350,000, including staffing to manage residency documentation and relocation logistics, such as bus fares or gasoline.

Non-regional residents who are fleeing domestic violence or discrimination would be exempt from the moratorium. Heading Home also said the recommendation did not achieve consensus, and Wheeler Mission Bloomington would continue to serve out-of-region residents.

Other recommendations to curb homelessness in Bloomington

Fund 12 additional outreach workers. Cost: $1 million annually. Potential funding sources: City and county income tax revenue.

Fund 10 additional case managers for service providers including Beacon, Middle Way House and Wheeler Mission. Cost: $1 million annually. Potential funding sources: City and county income tax revenue, Lilly Endowment and other private philanthropic organizations.

Provide an initial $500,000 to prevent residents who encounter a housing crisis from losing their home. Potential funding sources: Township trustees, community groups such as Salvation Army, faith-based organizations.

Bolster security at Crawford Apartments, Kinser Flats, the future Beacon Center and other sites to decrease clients falling into homelessness. Cost: Roughly $1 million annually. Potential funding sources: Not identified.

You can read the full report at headinghomeindiana.org/news/housing-action-plan/

How to provide input on Bloomington's plan to combat homelessness:

The Bloomington City Council will host a consensus-building activity session on street homelessness at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 14 at city hall and invites anyone with interest or experience to attend and participate in a collaborative discussion on this topic.

Boris Ladwig can be reached at bladwig@heraldt.com.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Bloomington mayor proposes 10 day limit for nonresident homeless services
Jonathan Hayes was stabbed in the leg, only just missing his femoral artery - ITV News/PA

A survivor of the Southport stabbings who attempted to disarm the attacker has likened the man to a crouching tiger.

Jonathan Hayes, 63, was stabbed in the leg after confronting the person who targeted a childrens Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the Merseyside town on July 29.

The grandfather, whose office is in the same building where the dance class was taking place, said he heard screams and rushed to the scene after hearing one of his colleagues cry out in alarm.

He told BBC Radio 4s Today Programme: When I opened the door, he stood there. He had the hoodie on. Most of his face was concealed. We locked eyes on each other, and he looked pretty menacing. I described him at the police station like a crouching tiger.

I knew immediately that he shouldnt have been there, wrong guy, wrong place, and then he came at me. I used this phrase to the policeman, I said I would like to have been more Bruce Willis about the whole thing, but I wasnt able to get the knife off him.

But I dont believe he managed to hurt anybody else after, and I think in the interim period, all the children had managed to evacuate the building, apart from those that I believe were locked in the toilet with one of the yoga teachers.

Jonathan Hayes was among those attacked in Southport on July 29

Mr Hayes said he had surgery after suffering severe wounds following the incident, and that he is lucky to have survived.

He said: It only narrowly missed my femoral artery, and Ive been told if it had caught that I probably wouldnt be here, so Im very grateful.

But theres no reason why I dont think I will make a full recovery. Ive not even begun to process the horror show that Ive seen.

Bebe King, aged six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, were killed in the attack.

Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, 17, has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 counts of attempted murder. He will appear at Liverpool Crown Court on Oct 25.

Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar were killed during the Southport attack on a dance class - Merseyside Police

Speaking about the recent riots that have erupted across Britain, Mr Hayes said Sir Keir Starmers rhetoric about using the full force of the law was unhelpful.

He said the Government needed to address the root cause of the issue rather than the symptoms, adding: I actually dont think that the trouble on the Right has got anything at all to do with the Southport stabbings.

There appears to be a strong undercurrent of discontent for some time about the levels of immigration. And this is just a catalyst or a trigger, but I dont think its the root cause. I do get dismayed when I hear Keir Starmer talking about [how] the police are going to come down with the full force of the law on these people.

But they are not actually talking about the root cause, and they need to start listening and understanding that. They need to address the cause rather than the symptoms.

It comes as Britain 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 immigration centres across the country.

Britains top prosecutor has warned that rioters face being charged with terror offences. 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.

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FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 that was headed to Sacramento made an emergency landing at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport on Wednesday, according to airport officials.

The Southwest Airlines aircraft landed safely around 8 a.m. after the airline reported that the pilots received a maintenance indication while en route to Sacramento.

According to Flight Aware, Southwest flight WN 3113 was headed to Sacramento (SMF) after leaving Santa Anna (SNA) at 6:41 a.m.

No injuries were reported. Southwest says a separate aircraft will take the passengers to their destination.

The incident took place less than two weeks after another Southwest Airlines flight was forced to make another emergency landing at Fresno Yosemite International Airport.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
The Crew Dragon spacecraft sits on top of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket as it is prepared to launch NASA's Crew 8 to the International Space Station on March 2. On Tuesday, NASA announced the SpaceX launch of this month's Crew-9 mission has been pushed back to Sept. 24, to accommodate Boeing's Starliner which is currently stranded, along with two U.S. astronauts, at ISS. File Photo by Joe Marino/UPI

Aug. 6 (UPI) -- SpaceX has delayed this month's Crew-9 astronaut launch to Sept. 24, to accommodate a traffic jam at the International Space Station as Boeing's Starliner remains stalled at the orbiting laboratory.

SpaceX was scheduled to launch its ninth operational flight for NASA with four astronauts to the ISS on Aug. 18, before the space agency announced the delay Monday.

"This adjustment allows more time for mission managers to finalize return planning for the agency's Boeing Crew Flight Test currently docked to the orbiting laboratory," NASA said.

Boeing's new Starliner capsule launched June 5, with NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore to the ISS. Despite plans to return Starliner and its crew to Earth a week later, NASA has repeatedly delayed the mission for two months so Crew Flight Test members can study Starliner's issues that include five failed reaction control system thrusters.

As SpaceX delays this month's launch, NASA will use the time to determine the flightworthiness of Starliner and whether it is safe to bring Williams and Wilmore home.

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore, left, and Suni Williams are seen as they prepare to depart the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building for Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Space Force Station to board the Boeing CST-100 Starliner spacecraft for the Crew Flight Test launch. File Photo by NASA/UPI

"Starliner ground teams are taking their time to analyze the results of recent docked hot-fire testing, finalize flight rationale for the spacecraft's integrated propulsion system and confirm system reliability ahead of Starliner's return to Earth," NASA said in a statement Tuesday. "NASA and Boeing continue to evaluate the spacecraft's readiness, and no decisions have been made regarding Starliner's return."

NASA could ultimately decide to tap SpaceX to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth, if the space agency determines that would be the safer route.

"There are a lot of good reasons to complete this mission and bring Butch and Suni home on Starliner," Steve Stich, NASA's commercial crew program manager, said last month.

"Of course, I'm very confident we have a good vehicle to bring the crew back with," Mark Nappi, Boeing's commercial crew program manager, added as the company weighed in with an update.

"Boeing remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew. We continue to support NASA's requests for additional testing, data, analysis and reviews to affirm the spacecraft's safe undocking and landing capabilities," the company wrote.

"Our confidence is based on this abundance of valuable testing from Boeing and NASA. The testing has confirmed 27 of 28 thrusters are healthy and back to full operational capability," Boeing added.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said Tuesday he too is confident that NASA will make the right call, adding "I especially have confidence since I have the final decision."

As the Crew-9 mission waits another month to launch, liftoff will now take place from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida to "deconflict with pad preparations for NASA's Europa Clipper mission beginning this September."

The Crew-9 mission will mark the first-ever crewed launch from SLC-40.
A man wrapped in a red-and-white English flag raised his hand in a Nazi salute in the town center of Leicester, England, as a line of police officers looked on and a crowd of counterprotesters shouted out their collective disapproval.

"Off our streets, Nazi scum," the counterprotesters chanted, according to a video of the incident posted on social media and verified by ABC News. The man saluting during the Aug. 3 rally appeared to hold his hand high throughout the duration of the 23-second clip.

Similarly racist, combative and at-times-violent scenes have played out on streets throughout the United Kingdom for more than a week. London's Metropolitan Police has described the ongoing far-right rallies as a "national critical incident."

"We will not tolerate this on our streets," the Met said in a statement. "We will use every power, tactic and tool available to prevent further scenes of disorder."

MORE: UK police clash with rioters in the wake of deadly knife attack at dance event

Dozens of additional rallies led by far-right groups were expected to be held Wednesday evening in London and elsewhere, the police said. Counterprotests were expected at many of them. Patrols were being increased in London in advance of the rallies, police said in a statement late Tuesday.

"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 fueling violence," the Met said.

The unrest follows the deaths of three girls, who were stabbed in a "ferocious" attack during a July 19 dance event in Southport, a seaside town, according to police.

A 17-year-old was arrested and charged with murder, police said. The suspect was from Banks, a coastal village in Lancashire, and was born in Cardiff, Wales, police said.

The Crown Court released the suspect's name after a judge ruled it could be released despite his age. Although the suspect was born in the United Kingdom, online rumors spread calling into question his immigration status, police said.

"This recent activity is a clear lesson in how important it is to counter any misinformation posted online or on social media," Shane O'Neill, Leicester Police's chief superintendent, said in a statement.

PHOTO: A shop owner boards up the windows due to fear, safety and possible looting hours before a planned far-right protest is set to take place in northeast London, United Kingdom on August 07, 2024. (Burak Bir/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Some of those who've attended the rallies have voiced concerns over immigration policies in the wake of a the stabbing deaths. Keir Starmer, the newly elected prime minister, described their actions as "far-right thuggery."

"We will ensure those responsible will feel the full force of the law," Downing Street said in a statement. "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."

Starmer said Downing Street had called for "swift action" against violent protesters, and the Crown Prosecution Service already charged and brought several rioters into court.

PHOTO: Police Officers walk past a burnt out police vehicle as they are deployed on the streets of Hartlepool, England following a violent protest, July 31, 2024. (Owen Humphreys/PA Images via Getty Images)

One 37-year-old pleaded guilty Tuesday to violent disorder after he "hurled missiles at police officers ... following widespread unrest in Hull," prosecutors said in a press release. Another 18-year-old from Bolton was sentenced Tuesday to two months in jail after pleading guilty to damaging two police cruisers during the unrest, prosecutors said.

Several arrests were also made in Leicester, where two protests were held in the city center on Aug. 3, including one 35-year-old woman who was later charged with racially or religiously aggravated intentional harassment and assault for allegedly beating an emergency worker, the Leicester Police said in a statement.

Along with the hundreds who've been arrested at rallies, others were arrested for "online offenses," Starmer's office said Tuesday.

"If you provoke violent disorder on our streets or online, you will face the full force of the law," Starmer said.

ABC News' Camilla Alcini contributed to this report.

What sparked the recent violent protests in the United Kingdom? originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Spartanburg County to gain more than 100,000 residents, state leaders say

Spartanburg County to gain more than 100,000 residents, state leaders say

SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA)  Officials in Spartanburg County are making big adjustments to prepare for a massive spike in population growth.

This comes after a study from state leaders named the county the second fastest growing in South Carolina.

More than 100,000 people are expected to move to Spartanburg County over the next eighteen years. That is all according to new projections from the South Carolinas Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office.

Spartanburg County council member David Britt told 7NEWS around 370,000 people live in the county right now and that 29 people on average are moving there every day.

Heads in beds drive all the restaurants and all the retail, the things that people want to do. They dont have to get in a car and drive to Atlanta or Charlotte to shop, said Britt.

He also said county leaders hired a new planning director, and are rapidly building new condos, restaurants and parks to accommodate the growth.

With our planning department, our PZO, putting in place, updating our unified land management ordinance, these tools help us guide growth so its not a burden, Britt added.

Britt attributed Spartanburg Countys population growth to the local school districts, in addition to investments in new industry, roads and utilities.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Why North Jersey may have to stomp more spotted lanternflies than the rest of the state

Spotted lanternflies are alluring with their black polka-dotted papery crimson underwings, but the invasive species have bad intentions, and experts say this year, North Jersey residents may have to do more squishing than others.

"Generally speaking, the northeast part [of New Jersey] seems to have the highest populations [of spotted lanternflies] in the state this year," according to Jeff Wolfe, spokesman for the state Department of Agriculture.

Population numbers of the plant-hopping pests now emerging as adults are not uniformly placed throughout the state, so Wolfe notes that some areas have more lanternflies than others. This can be chalked up to the insect's keen ability to catch a ride on moving transport.

Areas seeing larger populations "has more to do with the spotted lanternflies' hitchhiking ability, and where they were able to travel and establish a population, rather than the environment or potential food source," Wolfe said.

But much is still being researched about the spindly-legged creature since its unwelcome visit to the United States just a decade ago.

The lanternfly, which has little in common with an actual fly, craves no less than 70 plants and crops and was first spotted in Pennsylvania in 2014 and in New Jersey in 2018. Both states now have large populations, along with 15 other states, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The lanternfly has also been spotted in Vermont, New Hampshire and as far west as Iowa, according to an interactive map updated July 31 by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the Northeastern IPM Center.

While studies are underway to find ways to eradicate the species  USDA scientists found earlier this year they are attracted to the vibration of electrical power lines  it appears for now, the inch-long invaders are here to stay.

With just one generation of lanternflies per year, their life cycle has repeated since the bugs first appeared, with eggs laid in the fall and hatching taking place between late April and June, according to a guide updated in June by Penn State researchers and experts.

Haven't seen any yet this year? Egg masses were present all winter, Wolfe said, and once they hatch, they are so small, they are difficult to see. The nymphs are just millimeters in size, or about the size of a tick, and can be difficult to spot before they go through different stages of development. But in July, people may have started seeing them in their adult form, growing into gray-and-red-winged adults that will remain active through the fall before dying off during hard freezes.

But as New Jersey residents prepare for another season living among the invasive pests that are taking flight (or, rather, jumping or hopping, as they prefer), here are some quick reminders and tips to keep them at bay. And yes, that means if you see one, stomp it out, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture has continued to remind residents.

Why is the spotted lanternfly so harmful?

The pests have tiny suckers that remove fluids from plant species, including cultivated and wild grape, fruit trees and hardwood trees commonly found in woodlots and landscape plantings, according to Rutgers' New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES). They are particularly fond of the tree of heaven, an abundant, invasive plant in the state that grows in clumps in sunny areas along highways, edges of crop fields, open spaces and parks, the NJAES said.

In short, the lanternflies use sucking mouthparts to remove fluids, or sap, in plants, ultimately destroying them. The bugs in their growing stage, or as nymphs, ingest less sap than the adults, which means now is the time when heavy feeding ramps up.

For now, Wolfe said there has not been any "measurable" agricultural damage to crops in New Jersey from lanternflies, but the creatures are intrusive to the area and feed on some of the state's most vital plants. While they are harmless to humans and pets, lanternflies are simply a nuisance pest, Wolfe added.

Researchers at Penn State Extension in 2022 opined that short-term, heavy feeding by adult spotted lanternflies on young maple trees inhibits photosynthesis, which potentially impairs the tree's growth by as much as 50%, according to a study. However, in a 2023 study, researchers at Penn State said feeding pressure on Northeastern hardwoods was unlikely to see big impacts on the growth of trees.

What is still of concern for many researchers, including those at Cornell and Penn State Extension, is the potential extensive damage to vineyards across the states.

In late August through September, lanternflies tend to congregate along New Jersey's vineyards to feed, reducing the starch concentration in vine roots and sugar in the grapes, reducing the yield in the subsequent year and the potential death of the vines, according to researchers with the Penn State Extension.

Lanternflies are "swarm" feeders and up to 400 [adults] per vine have been discovered, according to a report from Cornell's College of Agriculture and Science.

And while the bug's feeding on the plant's sap is devastating to the plant, and to the homeowners who may treasure their backyard foliage, so is the insect's excretion of honeydew, a sugary waste, after feeding, which can attract bees, wasps and other insects. The honeydew also promotes the growth of sooty mold, or fungi, which can cover anything from plants to patio furniture to cars, according to the NJ Department of Agriculture.

But do I really have to kill a lanternfly?

The many stages and changing looks of a spotted lanternfly. One generation lasts from about May to October.

As terrific hitchhikers whose females can lay up to two egg masses per year (easily up to 100 eggs), containing the invasive species is not only vital to the environment, but also to the industries that may suffer from destroyed crops. Not to mention the billions of dollars annually in lost revenue and mitigation efforts.

While the extent of damage to crops is not entirely well known at this point, several studies suggest the bug will continue to infiltrate the country if actions aren't taken; one such study suggests the bug will land in California by 2033.

California is home to the nation's largest wine industry, contributing $73 billion to the state and $170.5 billion to the U.S. Economy, according to a 2022 report commissioned by the Wine Institute and the California Association of Winegrape Growers. In New Jersey, the wine industry is a major magnet for tourists, generating 272,500 visits and $92.48 million in annual tourism expenditures, which benefit local economies and tax bases, according to a 2022 report commissioned by the National Association of American Wineries. The industry generated over $4.5 billion to the U.S. economy in 2022.

But how would they even get there? Remember, they are excellent hitchhikers.

Can spotted lanternflies hitch rides across state lines?

Spotted lanternflies cannot fly far distances on their own, but a new study has shown the pests can hang onto fast-moving vehicles and endure wind speeds of up to 62 mph. The study, published on July 10 in Royal Society Open Science, involved testing almost 900 lanternflies across six life stages and five vehicle locations.

Using a fan and creating a wind tunnel effect, similar to what a car would experience on a highway, the testers found 48% of all insects hung on through the fan's maximum wind speed of 62 mph while latching onto the wiper blades. While gripping the scuttle panel, the black strip of plastic between the windshield and hood, 60% of the insects held on, according to the study.

Early adult females were particularly good at holding on  which isn't great news if they have mated before hitchhiking and could easily be carrying about 300 eggs to a new destination.

The insects seemingly were able to hold on due to their tarsal claws, which are tiny hooks at the end of their legs that help them grip plants, the researchers suggested. The bugs were also smart enough to hunch down, bracing against the wind.

What is being done in New Jersey to prevent lanternflies from hitchhiking?

Preventing the lanternflies' movement is a vital part of keeping the population from spreading.

New Jersey is the only state where every county is under quarantine by the state Department of Agriculture for the spotted lanternfly, meaning that any object capable of spreading the bug "cannot be moved without taking precautions to prevent that spread."

The quarantine requires that regulated items, such as landscaping or construction materials, firewood, packing materials, plants, RVs, lawn mowers, chairs, grills, stones and other outdoor household articles be checked for any living stage of the insect prior to being moved to another quarantined area. Businesses or organizations that move regulated materials in or out of the quarantine zone are required to obtain permits issued by the NJDA, with training available online.

What else can I do to prevent the spread of lanternflies?

First thing is to not panic, since the fluttery creatures don't attack, bite or sting, humans, pets or livestock, nor is there any evidence to suggest they are toxic to pets, said Julie Urban, associate research professor of entomology in Penn States College of Agricultural Sciences.

While you may be tempted to use at-home remedies to remove the bugs, such as vinegar, soap or garlic, Urban said while seemingly harmless, even dish soap can harm some of the region's most vital insects.

Here are several tips to get rid of the pests, collected from several experts:

Before leaving a parking lot or work site, check for lanternfly eggs or insects on doors, bumpers, wheel wells, etc., and destroy them

Keep windows closed when parked to avoid the spotted lanternfly and its nymphs from entering

During egg-laying time (October to June), scrape off masses on trees into plastic bags, destroy them with rubbing alcohol or sanitizer or smash them

See a lanternfly on the ground? If you can beat the quick-moving insect, "stomp it out," urges the NJ Department of Agriculture.

Make a trap to capture spotted lanternflies

Do NOT use sticky traps around trees unless they have a raised guard of wire or screening to prevent other creatures, such as birds or butterflies, from getting stuck. Penn State Extension offers a short video on how to properly use sticky bands.

Remove plants that are preferred by the pests, including the tree of heaven. Scientists say many more eggs are laid and egg laying begins sooner if the spotted lanternfly can feed on the tree of heaven.

If using insecticides, only use those registered by the Environmental Protection Agency

How many NJ counties are applying for spotted lanternfly treatments?

The state has enlisted municipalities and counties to help federal and state staff members chemical treat and trap lanternflies, particularly in high-priority areas, including transportation hubs, Wolfe said.

In January, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture announced grant funding for the next three years to help fight the lanternfly spread. Counties can be reimbursed up to $50,000 and municipalities up to $20,000 on a first-come, first-served basis for chemical treatment activities.

It was a similar situation in 2023 when the department also distributed grants, with $50,000 distributed to each county and $15,000 per municipality for treatment services.

Six counties and 97 municipalities have applied for the grants, Wolfe said, with each town using a licensed applicator staff member or licensed contractor vendor to spray chemical treatments or conduct trapping.

Wolfe said that it is left up to the municipalities to treat where they think they need it most and the department doesn't receive information on where that is until they turn in their receipts in for reimbursement later in the year. So measuring precise population areas proves difficult.

"Since spotted lanternflies [are] new to our area and the United States, there are still a lot of unknowns about the insect's behavior," he said.

But one thing is for sure: If you see it, stomp it out.

Email: lcomstock@njherald.com; Twitter: @LoriComstockNJH or on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on New Jersey Herald: NJ spotted lanternfly population is largely in North Jersey
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  The Springfield Partners for Community Action celebrated life-changing education support and kicked off a major milestone year Wednesday morning.

Its more of an example for my kids. It took me a long time to get here. Doing so is a grandiose feeling. Im proud of myself because Im showing them they should look toward their dreams as well, Marymeida Perez-Morales told 22News.

Free electronics disposal event held in Springfield for western Mass. residents

A meaningful moment for a mother-daughter pair Wednesday in Springfield, both receiving a scholarship from the Springfield Partners for Community Action to continue their life-changing educational journeys. Mom received funds to pursue her masters degree, and her daughter chasing a bachelors degree in nursing.

The emphasis on education is now a family value. Scholarship recipient Arilyn Kane said, All my life my mom has told me that education is number one and its important and nobody can take away your education.

This event served two purposes, first awarding those scholarships to those excited recipients, and second kicking off a celebratory year for the organizations 60 years of community action in the city of Springfield.

Since its founding in 1964 as the very first community action organization in Western Massachusetts, the organization has provided invaluable help in everything from education assistance to affording groceries, utilities, and housing, even guiding people through filing taxes.

Robert Cee Jackson | President, Springfield Partners for Community Action, With our program with funds coming from the feds and the state we have helped people have a chance in their life to do better.

Their 60th anniversary celebration will continue throughout the year.

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.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
As the packed crowd at Big Momma's on Commercial Street erupted in near-deafening cheers, Crystal Quade rushed over to a large screen.

She'd been leading since the early results and the margin was only widening. The standing-room-only crowd chanted her first name.

Mo. gubernatorial candidate Crystal Quade is greeted by supporters as she make her way into her watch part at Big Momma's Coffee and Espresso Bar on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

"There really are no words for having your community show up for you like this. Every election year, I feel so honored and to be doing this statewide and seeing the results coming in, feels so good," said Quade, who clenched her spot as the Democratic candidate for Missouri governor with just more than half the vote in Tuesday's primary.

"Right now Missourians are looking for something different. They want someone who understands the struggles of regular, working class people and they want someone who, in a very politically divisive environment, can come to the table and find compromise and find ways we can move Missouri forward even when the climate is so hostile right now."

Quade, a state representative who has represented a swatch of Greene County in the Missouri House for eight years, has served as Minority Floor Leader for much of that time, earning a reputation around the state for defending the party's position and helping to elect other progressive candidates.

Surrounded by supporters and her children, Quade said she will be a "fair" governor if elected in November, "someone who really listens to all sides of the conversation and continues to move Missouri forward in a way that helps everybody."

"It is so great to be surrounded by people who have been on this journey with us for a long time," she said. "Thank you  not just for believing in me but for believing in the vision we have for a Missouri where everybody can thrive, have a safe place to live and start their families and their businesses in. I'm just so grateful that folks are resonating with that Missouri that we all deserve."

Mo. gubernatorial candidate Crystal Quade is greeted by supporters as she make her way into her watch part at Big Momma's Coffee and Espresso Bar on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

The Associated Press called the Democratic race for Quade at 9:41 p.m., based on her significant lead in initial results. She ended the night with 50.2% of the Democratic votes cast.

"This race has shown us that the grassroots movement in Missouri is real. This race has shown us that every corner of the state folks are ready for something different," Quade said moments later, after being declared the winner. "Missouri is ready for a governor that puts its people first. We are ready for a governor who gets rid of partisan politics and stops with the in-fighting and the flamethrowers and the disgusting TV ads and helps Missouri's people first."

Missouri gubernatorial candidate Crystal Quade exclaims in surprise as votes roll in for the primary election at Big Momma's Coffee and Espresso Bar after winning the Democrat primary on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

Quade's biggest challenge was from Springfield businessman Mike Hamra, president and CEO of Hamra Enterprises, who ultimately garnered 31.7% of the vote. His watch party Tuesday was two miles away at Springfield Brewing Company.

Hamra called Quade to congratulate her on being the Democratic nominee for Missouri governor.

From the very beginning, our campaign has always been about bringing people together and moving Missouri forward. I believe Missouri has an incredibly bright future ahead of us, but we must move beyond the dysfunctional politics in Jefferson City that have held us back from reaching our full potential," Hamra said in a statement late Tuesday.

"This doesnt end with one campaign or one election: Missouris future is on the line in November, and we must all work together to restore abortion rights and make sure Crystal Quade is Missouris next governor. Lets get to work.

Quade and political newcomer Hamra did not engage in campaign mudslinging.

Of the five candidates in the Democratic primary for governor, Quade and Hamra have been the most active on the campaign trail. They crisscrossed the state to tell their stories, engaged with voters on social media and ran TV ads in and out of southwest Missouri.

Other candidates included Eric Morrison, a pastor and political activist in the Kansas City area, plus Hollis Laster and Sheryl Gladney, who reside in the St. Louis area, in the Democratic primary for the state's top office.

The Democratic gubernatorial primary winner will face the winner of the Republican primary  with nine candidates  and Libertarian Bill Slantz in November.

A watch party for Missouri gubernatorial candidate Mike Hamra in Downtown Springfield on Tuesday, Aug 6, 2024.

Quade's work for constituents won support

Quade grew up in rural southwest Missouri and was the first in her family to graduate from high school. She worked her way through college.

A former chapter services director for Care to Learn, she was first elected to the Missouri House in 2016 and was re-elected in 2018, 2020, and 2022.

Jaclyn Brown, a teacher at Springfield's Reed Academy, said Quade's speech after the overturn of Roe v. Wade made her a supporter. "I was really energized by that, revitalized by it."

In 2022, Brown started campaigning for Quade. She praised Quade's support for public schools, especially rural schools where resources are often scarce.

"Her principles have always been 'I'm working for all my constituents, not just the ones who voted for me.' And you really see that reflected in everything she does," Brown said.

Quade's roots in southern Missouri, experience as a social worker and willingness to work across the political aisle were also factors in Brown's support.

"I just love her," said Brown, an educator for 11 years. "She'll be more solution-oriented instead of platform-oriented, which is fantastic."

As Minority Floor Leader, Quade said she built relationships "all over the political spectrum" in Jefferson City and gained valuable insight.

Missouri gubernatorial candidate Crystal Quade speaks to a crowd of family, friends and supporters at Big Momma's Coffee and Espresso Bar after winning the Democrat primary on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

Quade said there are many issues she cares about and will work for but the "absolute No. 1" is to make sure that the government is functioning properly.

Makayla Jordan-Diemler, an educator, said she has lived in Springfield for a long time and has followed Quade's career in politics.

She has been impressed with how well Quade interacts with lawmakers and constituents from both political parties.

"I like Crystal. She is a great person and fun to hang out with and fun to talk to and really intelligent," she said. "She is really kind. She has interacted with her so many times and she always remembers my name, which is really meaningful to me."

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri primary: Crystal Quade wins Democratic race for governor
Missouri Rep. Cori Bush has lost her Democratic primary to St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell, securing another win for the same pro-Israel groups that helped oust New York Rep. Jamaal Bowman six weeks ago.

Bush, a member of the House squad of progressive lawmakers like Bowman, was already earmarked for a tough primary in Missouris 1st Congressional District  which ended up being the second-most expensive primary of the cycle, behind only Bowmans race in New York. Her fierce advocacy for a ceasefire in Gaza added fuel to opponents fire.

And in similar fashion to Bowman, Bush  despite the backing of progressive groups, local leaders and top congressional Democrats  was unable to fend off Bell, who, like Bush, rose to prominence during the protests in Ferguson, Missouri, a decade ago following the police killing of unarmed Black teenager Michael Brown.

With his victory Tuesday, Bell will be heavily favored in the general election for the solid blue St. Louis-area seat. His win also marks the second time in three cycles that a challenger has unseated the incumbent in the 1st District Democratic primary  Bush defeated Rep. William Lacy Clay in the 2020 contest.

Bell first entered elective politics in 2015, when he won a seat on the Ferguson City Council. Three years later, he was the first Black St. Louis County prosecutor, unseating longtime incumbent Robert McCulloch.

What we had, that he did not have, was the power of people, Bell told supporters that night in 2018.

But his decision not to bring charges against the officer who shot Brown frustrated some in the community, including Browns father, who cut an ad for Bush in the closing days of the race in which he says: I feel like (Bell) lied to us.

In the primary, Bush sought to cast Bell as a vehicle for corporate donors far removed from the community that elected him  and that he is now likely to represent in Congress next year.

By supporting our grassroots campaign, Bush said in a recent fundraising email, youre standing up against a grifter politician and the influence of big money in politics and demanding real representation for the people of MO-01.

But her defeat will be blow to House progressives, who rallied around Bowman earlier this year, only to see him lose by more than 15 points to a more moderate opponent in the Democratic primary. Both Bush and Bowman came under criticism from their opponents for lodging protest votes against President Joe Bidens bipartisan infrastructure bill  which was not as climate-friendly as they had hoped  on its way to passage in 2021. (Only six Democrats, in all, joined most Republicans in opposition.)

She sold out our president, and she sold out the city of St. Louis, a person says in an ad by the United Democracy Project, the super PAC of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The group spent about $9 million on ads attacking Bush or boosting Bell.

In this July 29, 2019 file photo, St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell speaks during an interview in Clayton, Missouri. - Jeff Roberson/AP

Bushs infrastructure vote and her early, strident advocacy for a halt to the fighting in Gaza were her main vulnerabilities, though her rivals also argued she focused too much on national politics and not enough on her district.

An ad by the Mainstream Democrats PAC also attacked her for being the subject of a federal investigation over alleged misuse of campaign funds for security services. Bush has denied any wrongdoing and maintains that she complied with House rules.

Bell had no shortage of local endorsers, but, in addition the United Democracy Projects big outlay, big spenders on his behalf included the Democratic Majority for Israel, the pro-crypto Fairshake PAC and billionaire Reid Hoffmans Mainstream Democrats.

Bush is the fourth House member to lose a primary this year. In March, Rep. Jerry Carl lost an all-incumbent Republican primary in Alabama to Rep. Barry Moore after both ran for the same seat following redistricting. Bowman lost his primary in June, and last week, Virginia Rep. Bob Good, the chair of the hard-line House Freedom Caucus, conceded his Republican primary after a recount upheld his June defeat.

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNNs David Wright contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
For the second time this election season, a Squad member of Congress has lost their reelection bid. Missouri Rep. Cori Bush was defeated in a Democratic primary that saw millions of dollars pour into her campaign in a race that was shaped by the ongoing war in Gaza.

War in Gaza dominates race

On Tuesday, St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell defeated Bush in the Democratic primary for Missouris 1st Congressional District, covering the city of St. Louis and parts of St. Louis County. Bell became the favorite in the race, dominated by the issue of the war in Gaza. Bush has courted controversy as one of the fiercest congressional critics against the war, calling it ethnic cleansing against Palestinians and opposing American support for Israel in the conflict. Bell, who switched from a Senate campaign to challenge Bush after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel that set off the Gaza conflict, also presented himself as a progressive in the race but also expressed pro-Israel positions.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the leading pro-Israel lobby organization in the United Stats, spent more than $8 million against Bush, one of the largest sums ever spent on a congressional primary race.

With the district leaning heavily Democratic, Bell is expected to win the general election in November.

Bush, the activist turned representative, has faced controversy

Bush, a nurse turned political activist, came to prominence during the 2014 Black Lives Matter protests in Ferguson, Missouri, after the death of Michael Brown in a confrontation with police. Bush was first elected to Congress in 2020 after renewed protests across the country after the murder of George Floyd. In Congress, she has championed progressive issues such as affordable housing.

However, her positions have also alienated her from members of her party. Most notably, she was one of only a few Democrats to vote against President Joe Bidens major infrastructure bill, one of the main achievements of the administration, criticizing the bill for not going far enough in its social spending. More generally, Bushs political adversaries have criticized her for missing votes in Congress and accused her of not doing enough to promote the interests of her districts constituents.

All they did was radicalize me

Bushs defeat marks the second time this summer that one of the left-leaning Squad members has lost a primary in a race shaped by the issue of Israel and Gaza. Second-term New York Rep. Jamaal Bowman was the first Democratic incumbent of the 2024 election cycle to lose his primary in June after pro-Israel groups like AIPAC spent a record $15 million to beat him. Bush indicated that she is not going away despite her defeat, asserting, All they did was radicalize me, so now they need to be afraid. She promised that her political adversaries would see her other side and warned, AIPAC, Im coming to tear your kingdom down.

Cori Bush defiant in defeat: "All they did was radicalize me, so now they need to be afraid." "They about to see this other Cori, this other side," she said. "AIPAC, I'm coming to tear your kingdom down." pic.twitter.com/690T0aEhmZ  Mark Maxwell (@MarkMaxwellTV) August 7, 2024

For now, though, Tuesdays election results have shown the impact of Gaza on the election, including dividing the Democratic Party on this issue and overlapping with a more general divide between moderate and progressive wings of the party. With conflict continuing in the Middle East and the U.S. general election three months away, American foreign policy and the differences between moderate and progressive Democrats will continue to be issues the party must resolve as it goes forward.
A man went on a gruesome stabbing spree Tuesday night, gouging two people in Queens in unprovoked attacks that left one victim in critical condition, police said.

In the first attack about 5:15 p.m., a 25-year-old man was pumping gas into his car at a Mobil gas station on North Conduit Avenue in Ozone Park when a 40-year-old man stabbed him in the back, police sources told the Daily News. The attack was captured on the gas stations security cameras and appeared to be unprovoked, police said.

He was bleeding a lot from the left side, Rakib Hussein, 30, who works at the Mobil station, told The News. He was pumping gas at pump number one, and the guy walked up and stabbed him in the back.

The victim staggered into the building where Hussein was working behind the cash register and begged him for help, he recounted. He said call the police. When I saw how hard he was bleeding I was in shock. I was scared. What was I supposed to do?

Hussein called 911, and an ambulance transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital, where he was in stable condition and is expected to survive, according to police.

Meanwhile, the unhinged stabber fled on foot to the nearby Aqueduct-North Conduit Avenue A train station, where he slashed a 67-year-old man in the neck awaiting a train on the southbound platform, police said. The older man was rushed to Jamaica Hospital and was in critical condition, according to police.

Police officers apprehended the stabber after the second attack; he was awaiting arraignment Tuesday night
A new mother reaches out to hold her baby's tiny hand.

North Carolina public school employees are eligible for up to eight weeks of paid leave for the birth of a child. (Photo: Getty Images)

State education leaders on Wednesday gave final approval to a permanent rule offering paid parental leave to public school employees. Under the policy, a full-time eligible employee who is a birthing parent will be entitled to eight weeks of paid parental leave.

The policy divides that leave time into four weeks of physical and mental recuperation and an additional four weeks for parent-child bonding. A non-birthing parent will be entitled to four weeks for parent-child bonding.

A part-time eligible school employee who becomes a parent is entitled to a prorated share of paid parental leave, based upon the hours in that employees weekly schedule.

If a newborn is placed up for adoption or into foster care, the parental leave is limited to four weeks.

The permanent rule also establishes guidelines for school employees who may experience a miscarriage or stillbirth, allowing the birthing parent to receive four weeks of leave after the first trimester. If a newborn dies after birth, both parents would be entitled to the full eight-week benefit.

The State Human Resources Commission adopted temporary rules back in 2023 with the State Board of Education (SBE) also passing a temporary policy in October of last year. Wednesdays action clarifies some previous questions and makes the statutory paid parental leave rule permanent.

Although the state board previously allowed public school employees to take unpaid leave for up to one calendar year following the birth or adoption of a child, employees are now entitled to a paid parental leave benefit.

The state board estimates that the proposed rule will have an annual cost ranging between $324,000 and $436,000 statewide, though that figure could vary greatly based the rate of utilization and other factors like future pay increases.

Charter schools can choose to adopt the policy if their respective boards of directors agree.

The General Assembly appropriated $10 million in recurring funds for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school year to help the public school system pay for the leave benefit and hire substitute teachers.

A fiscal analysis prepared for the State Board of Education notes that public school employees are disproportionately young and female when compared to the States labor force as a whole making the paid parental leave policy a valuable tool for recruitment and retention.
The state Department of Environmental Services has released the names of 19 potentially shaky dams it raised questions about, including about a half dozen in the Columbia area, as Tropical Storm Debby moves through South Carolina.

Officials said their initial worries have been mollified and they have not found heightened safety concerns at the dams. But the department will continue to monitor the dams. The structures were checked because they were in areas expected to receive at least six inches of rain and had known issues before Debbys arrival.

Dams of concern identified by the DES include structures at Richland Countys Adams Mill Pond, which was checked because of spillway damage; Lexington Countys Batesburg Reservoir, checked for insufficient spillway capacity; Lexington Countys Whisper Lake, checked for voids; and Calhoun Countys Derrenbacher and Paradise ponds, checked for slope stability and insufficient spillway capacity.

The agency also looked at two Kershaw County dams: the Upper Sunnyhill Dam, where inspections were done for spillway damage, and the Hermitage Mill Pond dam, checked for excessive seepage.

Dams of concern also were examined in parts of eastern South Carolinas Pee Dee region, as well as in Orangeburg, Aiken and nearby counties south and west of south of Columbia.

Once rainfall and floodwater from Tropical Storm Debby have subsided, SCDES will deploy trained teams across the impacted area to perform post-storm assessments of these flagged dams, as well as high and significant hazard dams located in areas with substantial rainfall accumulation, the agency said in a statement Wednesday before Gov. Henry McMasters press conference on the tropical storm.

Myra Reece, the DES director, said during the press conference that, all told, her agency will be looking at several hundred dams as early as Friday for signs of damage. The assessments will be done when the storm has begun to diminish.

The safety of dams has been a point of concern across South Carolina for years, particularly since a 2015 flood blew out or damaged at least 70 state regulated structures, as well as others that were not regulated.

At one point, the state had one of the weakest dam safety programs in the country, but the program has been bolstered with more staff and money since 2015. Still, the program has been criticized as not being adequately funded.

Overall, the state has about 2,400 regulated dams and an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 more that are not regulated. Dams in urban areas are of particular concern because a breach can send dangerous amounts of water into communities below them.

That happened during the 2015 flood in the Columbia area. Dams in the Gills Creek watershed burst, flooding major intersections and resulting in multiple deaths.
The Diamond Complex of nine fires east of Roseburg 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. (Northwest Interagency Coordination Center)

The Diamond Complex fires east of Roseburg are among those creating smoky conditions in much of Oregon. (Northwest Interagency Coordination Center)

Smoke and smog is clogging much of the air in Oregon, state officials said Wednesday.

At mid-day, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality issued an air advisory for 20 of Oregons 36 counties due to wildfire smoke, then followed that up about 30 minutes later with a smog alert for the Portland area and Umatilla County.

The smog is caused by ozone pollution from the weather and traffic. Ozone forms when hot temperatures and low winds combine with pollution from cars, gas-powered engines and chemicals in paints and aerosols, the agencies said in a release. The pollutants react with sunlight and heat to produce ozone and haze.

Check conditions

Check current air quality conditions and advisories on DEQs Air Quality Index or by downloading the free OregonAIR app on a smartphone.

Though the air quality can be clear in the morning, as the heat sets in and the hours tick by with the sun streaming down, pollution levels rise and tend to peak in the afternoon and early evening.

Smoke levels in the air can also vary during the day, depending on weather conditions. DEQ said that as dozens of large fires burn in Oregon, Washington and California that smoke-clogged air could plague Baker, eastern Benton, Clackamas, eastern Douglas, Harney, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, central Lane, Linn, Malheur, Marion, Multnomah, eastern Polk, Umatilla, Wallowa, Wasco, eastern Washington and eastern Yamhill counties.

Both smoke and smog irritate the eyes, nose and lungs and contribute to breathing problems. People who are pregnant, seniors and those with heart disease or respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable to smog. The agencies said they should avoid exposure, if possible, by limiting outdoor activities when pollution levels rise.

The agencies advised people in the Portland area, where traffic can be heavy, and Umatilla County, with interstate and state and regional highways, to carpool or avoid traveling in a gas-powered vehicle altogether and use public transport to curtail the harmful emissions. They also said residents should avoid using gas-powered yard equipment, avoid letting vehicles idle and put off aerosol painting projects.

The smog advisory will remain in place in Umatilla County through 8 p.m. Wednesday and in the Portland area until 8 p.m. on Thursday. The smoke alert will run until Friday afternoon.

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  This week is National Farmers Market Week, and state leaders came to visit some local New Haven markets to celebrate.

East Hartford Farmers Market returns for the season

The Lieutenant Governor and State Agriculture Commissioner visited City-Seeds Dixwell Q-House Farmers Market on Wednesday, encouraging increased access to purchase eligible products grown at Connecticut farms.

This is the 25th year of National Farmers Market Week, which runs through Saturday. The holiday aims to highlight the vital role that farmers markets play in the American food system.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
Steve Jobs' former yacht Venus collided with another superyacht off the coast of Naples

Venus, seen in a file image, was originally designed for Steve Jobs, though he never stepped foot on her. Valery Hache/AFP via Getty Images

Venus, the yacht built for Steve Jobs, collided with another yacht off Italy's coast.

It's unclear which yacht struck which or when exactly the crash occurred.

With a minimalist design, Venus is one of the world's most iconic superyachts.

Venus, Steve Jobs' former superyacht  now owned by his wife, the philanthropist and investor Laurene Powell Jobs  has collided with another superyacht off of the Italian coast.

A spokesperson from Powell Jobs' Emerson Collective who spoke with a crewmember confirmed to Business Insider that Venus, the 78-meter yacht Steve Jobs commissioned, had collided with Lady Moura, a 105-meter yacht. The collision happened on July 22 off the coast of Naples, Italy.

The spokesperson said that only crew were onboard the yacht and that both boats were anchored when a sudden change of wind led to the collision.

Venus is cruising in the Ligurian Sea, while Lady Moura made its way to Mykonos on Wednesday, based on publicly available tracking data from Marine Traffic.

Videos posted on social media show the strikingly minimalist Venus and the Lady Moura coming into contact. It's not clear from the videos which superyacht struck which, though someone who said they were aboard the Lady Moura seemed to blame Venus' crew on social media, SuperYacht Times reported. The person said the damage was "only a scratch, albeit a significant one that will be costly to repair."

Others on social media said that the Venus appeared to be moored and that Lady Moura seemed to have swung into the boat. BI hasn't been able to independently verify either claim.

The Italian Marina Militare didn't respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. The owner of the Lady Moura couldn't be reached.

No matter how little damage may have been done, insurance will probably cover it. Yacht insurance, which can cost six figures each month, is one of the largest costs incurred by yacht owners.

Venus, built by the top yacht-builder Feadship, was delivered after Jobs died in 2011 and was worth $130 million upon completion. The Apple cofounder was heavily involved in the design process alongside the French architect and decorator Philippe Starck.

"Venus comes from the philosophy of minimum," Starck said of her design. "The elegance of the minimum, approaching dematerialization."

Jobs and Starck spent four years working on her design, the designer told Vanity Fair , holding monthly meetings to discuss her specifications. She has six identical cabins, was built to maximize absolute silence, and, upon delivery, included the most up-to-date technology.

"There will never again be a boat of that quality again. Because never again will two madmen come together to accomplish such a task," Starck told the magazine. "It was not a yacht that Steve and I were constructing, we were embarked on a philosophical action, implemented according to a quasi-religious process. We formed a single brain with four lobes."



August 7, 2024  This story has been updated with a statement from a Laurene Powell Jobs spokesperson.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Tuesday's bankruptcy court hearing in Texas may not alter a timeline that could result in the permanent shutdown of Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer and the loss of 490 jobs at the hospital by the end of this month.

However, a state lawmaker believes there's a momentum shift from the federal courts to the communities served by Nashoba that are fighting to keep the hospital open.

State Sen. Jamie Eldridge, D-Marlborough, attended Tuesday night's Ayer Select Board meeting, where he said the board unanimously supported a resolution that asked Gov. Maura T. Healey's administration to declare a state of emergency for Nashoba Valley due to the potential closure of the hospital by bankrupt Steward Health Care System.

The resolution also called on Healey to enforce the state's 120-day notification requirement for hospital closures, something Steward hasn't met since it announced late last month it will shut down Nashoba by Aug. 31.

"It's a very dire situation," said Eldridge when asked if he's optimistic about Nashoba's future in light of Tuesday's court hearing and the board vote in Ayer. "There's a shift from the federal bankruptcy proceedings to what the state can do and what municipal governments can do. Hopefully a shift has happened in the past week."

As for the notification process, the state Department of Public Health will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. Aug. 15 at the Devens Common Center, 31 Andrews Parkway. A virtual public hearing is scheduled for Aug. 19. More information about the hearings is available at mass.gov.

Steward's July 26 notification of closure to the state health department included the shutting down of 46 medical/surgical beds, 20 psychiatric beds and all ambulatory care services.

Meanwhile, an internal UMass Memorial Health memo shared with the Telegram & Gazette shows a patient surge at UMass campuses in Leominster and Clinton.

"We are experiencing extremely high volumes of patients at the Leominster and Clinton campuses," reads Monday's memo by Paul MacKinnon, chief operating officer of the Central New England Health Alliance, which runs the operations at both campuses.

The surge is not connected to the imminent closure of Nashoba, said a statement from a UMass Memorial Health spokeswoman.

The statement noted the hospital system experienced a steady patient increase over the past several years due to higher levels of illness, longer inpatient stays and the difficulty of discharging patients to lower levels of care because of staffing challenges in those facilities. Regular spikes in seasonal illness was also cited as a reason for fluctuations in patient numbers at UMass Hospitals.

Lease relief?

Lawyers in bankruptcy court Tuesday reportedly announced that two companies holding onerous leases on hospitals in Massachusetts owned by Steward had turned over the contracts to their mortgage lender, Apollo Global Management.

The move could mean a smoother path to sell the hospitals because Steward is paying more than $100 million in lease payments annually for its eight hospitals to Medical Properties Trust and Macquarie Infrastructure Partners.

Now that Apollo controls the leases, the terms of those payments could be altered to lower amounts, paving the way for buyers to purchase six of Steward's eight hospitals in the state. Steward lawyers said in prior court hearings there are buyers for the six hospitals, but no qualified bids for Nashoba Valley Medical Center and Carney Hospital in Dorchester.

Steward hasn't released the names and details of the bids. The hospitals that received qualified officers, according to Steward's court filings, include St. Elizabeths Medical Center in Boston, Holy Family Hospital in Methuen and Haverhill, Morton Hospital in Taunton, St. Annes Hospital in Fall River and Good Samaritan Medical Center in Brockton.

Nashoba and Carney are losing money, according to Steward, and last week a bankruptcy judge approved Steward's move to sell both facilities.

Union continues the fight

Despite the uncertainty of Nashoba's and Carney's fates in light of Tuesday's court hearing, the Massachusetts Nurses Association said in an email that it's committed to keeping both facilities open beyond Aug. 31.

"Our effort to oppose and stop that closure remains in full force," said a union spokesman in an email when asked how the latest court developments impact Nashoba's future.

Steward is violating Massachusetts law, the union claims, because it's not adhering to the 120-day notification requirement.

Healey and some state lawmakers also demand Steward follow the full notification process, largely because it would give prospective buyers more time to make quality bids for the eight hospitals. However, Healey told a group of Nashoba nurses during a stop in Leominster last week that there is nothing she can do to stop Steward from closing Nashoba.

The formal notification process is run by the state Department of Public Health. The state agency can recommend that a hospital remain open, but it has no legal authority to force an owner to keep a hospital open.

Meanwhile, beyond the vote by the Ayer Select Board, the Boston's City Council is expected to debate a similar measure during its Wednesday meeting, according to the nurses union. The City of Methuen is exploring the possibility of taking Holy Family Hospital by eminent domain to help ensure its survival, said the union.

"The MNA, along with a growing number of community members, activists, state and municipal policy officials in these communities continue to advocate for the state to take immediate and aggressive action to preserve these vital health care facilities," said the union's email.

$30 million: Staggered payments, with conditions

Tuesday's court session also reportedly approved staggered payments of the Healey administration's commitment to provide Steward with a $30 million advance in state Medicaid funds to keep the six hospitals running until they're sold.

The bankruptcy judge approved the payments, with the total amount in jeopardy because the Healey administration initially set a Tuesday deadline of advancing the $30 million only if deals to sell the hospitals were in place. Now a friendlier lease structure appears to make the financial elements of Steward's six hospitals more attractive to buyers, meaning there is some wiggle room for the Healey team when it comes to the $30 million.

Those positive feelings were expressed in a prepared statement Tuesday night from Healey's administration, with no mention of the fate of Nashoba and Carney hospitals.

We are pleased that the Bankruptcy Court has approved our funding commitment for Massachusetts hospitals to remain open and provide care as we continue to advocate for patients and residents of this state. Whats imperative now is that Apollo, MPT and Steward's real estate partners do what's right for the people of Massachusetts and finalize deals so that the remaining five hospitals can be transferred to new owners. We look forward to a resolution being reached as soon as possible.

The first two installments of the Medicaid advance reportedly include $11.3 million this week to Steward. There is a $18.6 million payment Aug. 16, but only if deals to sell the six hospitals are inked by Friday.

Contact Henry Schwan at henry.schwan@telegram.com. Follow him on X: @henrytelegram.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Update on Steward bankruptcy, Nashoba Valley, other Mass. hospitals
Storm Debby could bring hottest day of the year to UK

Firefighters in Georgia carry food to residents stranded in storm water from Storm Debby. - STEPHEN B. MORTON

A storm threatening to deluge Florida with half a years worth of rain, in just days, could bring the hottest day of the year to the UK next week.

Tropical Storm Debby could bring temperatures of mid 30s to the UK next week, according to the Met Office.

Storm Debby itself will not reach UK shores but the forecaster said it may result in hotter conditions because of its impact on the jet stream.

The jet stream is a fast-moving band of wind that runs from east to west around the globe. Debby is expected to influence the strength and shape of the jet stream, in turn impacting UK weather.

Nick Silkstone, Met Office deputy chief meteorologist. said: Debby in North America will help to strengthen and veer the direction of the jet stream and this means this ribbon of air is likely to shift further to the south.

Storm Debby drenched Florida on Monday, killing at least five people. - CRISTOBAL HERRERA-ULASHKEVICH/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK

This southwards dip in the jet stream will likely be located across the mid-Atlantic this weekend and early next week, allowing southwesterly flow across the UK.

During this time a hot and perhaps very hot airmass could develop and be advected into the southeast of the UK.

Commenting on the potential hot temperatures, Dan Suri, the Met Office chief meteorologist, said: Tropical Storm Debby in North America is helping to strengthen the jet stream, and is causing it to meander over the Atlantic. This will allow hot air to move into the UK later this weekend, and early next week.

Temperatures are likely to reach the low 30s in places, notably in the south and southeast. Further north and west within this warm air, outbreaks of heavy showers or thunderstorms are possible. As well as the hot daytime temperatures, a very warm night is also expected on Sunday night into Monday.

The storm drenched Florida on Monday, killing at least five people and threatening south-eastern US states with heavy rainfall and catastrophic flooding. The storm will continue to hit parts of the east and southeastern US in the coming days and could bring as much as 600mm (23in) of rain, equating to around half the yearly average.

Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor, said that some 250,000 residents were left without power after the category one hurricane made landfall on Monday.

Florida's national guard has been mobilised to help with the storm response. - CRISTOBAL HERRERA-ULASHKEVICH/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK

Joe Biden approved emergency declarations for Florida, Georgia and South Carolina  allowing for federal assistance in coordinating disaster relief efforts.

Mr DeSantis also activated his states national guard, with more than 3,000 service members mobilised to help with the storm response.

Storm Debby also blew $1 million (784,000) worth of cocaine onto the Florida Keys coast, US border patrol said.

Twenty five packages washed up on a beach and were reported to police by a good Samaritan, said Samuel Briggs, the acting chief patrol agent.

He did not give the location for the discovery but shared an image of the haul on X, which showed 25 bricks covered in a black rectangular sticker with a red triangular symbol on 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.
Stranded Astronauts Could Be Stuck on the Space Station for Another 5 Months, NASA Says

NASA admitted during a live conference today that it still isn't confident enough in Boeing's Starliner to safely return its two stranded astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, from the International Space Station.

The pair have been stuck on the orbital outpost since early June, but ongoing technical issues plaguing Starliner have pushed back their return date indefinitely.

And even with NASA's contingency plan of having the pair be sent back on board a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft in place, their stay could be massively extended.

According to the head of NASA's commercial crew program Steve Stich, if the pair were to secure two seats on the upcoming SpaceX Crew-9 mission, they'd have to wait until February 2025 to make it back.

In other words, their trip to the ISS may have just been extended from just two weeks to just shy of eight months  an unexpected and considerable delay caused by Boeing's technical difficulties.

NASA also confirmed rumors that the agency was considering freeing up two out of four seats on an upcoming SpaceX mission to the ISS to make space for Williams and Wilmore's return. The mission was initially slated for August 18, but has since been pushed back to September 24 to buy the agency more time to figure out what to do.

In short, the agency is still keeping all of its options open.

"We have been working with SpaceX to ensure that they're ready to respond on Crew-9 for a contingency of returning Butch and Suni on Crew-9 if we need that," Stich said during today's conference call. "We have set up the Dragon for Crew-9 to have flexibility to have only two passengers fly up on that flight and then we could return four crew members in the February 2025 time frame."

Meanwhile, Williams and Wilmore would "remain on station and become part of that increment."

Stich, however, reiterated that NASA has yet to "approve this plan," despite having done "all the work to make sure this plan is there."

"We have the suits identified to fly up on Crew-9, we have the seats set up so that we can fly a multiple compliment of people, but we have not turned that on formally as the path that we're going to go down."

NASA has also been discussing other contingency plans, including flying a total of five crew members on a return journey, including one seat that would need to be mounted to a Dragon capsule's cargo pallet.

Another even more ambitious plan would be to "allow up to three crew members on the cargo pallet" in SpaceX's Crew-8 spacecraft, which is currently docked at the space station, bringing the total number of seats to seven.

Last month, NASA awarded SpaceX a $266,000 task order for a "special study for emergency response" to examine whether it's possible to load more than four crew members into Crew Dragon. According to the agency, the task order was inspired by leaks affecting the Russian Soyuz MS-22 capsule last year, and wasn't related to the ongoing Starliner crisis.

The increased seat number would theoretically give Williams and Wilmore room to return at a much earlier date  but Stich revealed that it's very unlikely for the agency to resort to this plan, given the option of returning them on Crew-9.

Meanwhile, returning the empty Starliner spacecraft will require changing "software parameters," per Stich, to allow it to undock and reenter the Earth's atmosphere autonomously. According to previous reporting by Ars Technica, such a task would be "non-trivial" and a "significant" undertaking that could take up to four weeks.

When asked if the two stranded astronauts were "excited" about spending many more months on the station, NASA's ISS program manager Dana Weigel said that the pair were "aware" that NASA is "always looking at contingency plans."

"I mean this is a pretty common thing that we do, we've always got backup plans of course," Weigel said, adding that the two were "included in all of the discussions."

"They're great crew members, great astronauts, great at flying Starliner," she said. "So I'd say they're prepared for either path that we go down."

More on Starliner: NASA Pushes Back Next SpaceX Astronaut Launch as Boeing Crisis Deepens
Students are moving in to Indiana colleges soon. Here's where some are and when they start.

Many college students are moving in on Indiana campuses this week and in the coming weeks in preparation for the fall semester to start later this month. Traffic might be heavier in college towns/cities over the next few weeks.

Here's a roundup of where several Indiana colleges and universities are located and when classes begin.

Northern Indiana colleges

Anderson University

Anderson University is located at 1100 E. 5th St, Anderson, IN 46012.

Those heading to Anderson will likely take I-69.

The fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

Ball State University

Ball State University is located at 2000 W. University Ave, Muncie IN 47306.

To get to campus most travelers will take I-69.

Classes start Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

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Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University is located at 4201 S. Washington St, Marion, IN 46953.

Those heading to campus will likely take IN-37.

Classes begin on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024.

Purdue University

Purdue University is located at 610 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907.

Most travelers will take I-65 to get to Purdue.

The fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

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Saint Mary's College

Saint Mary's College is located at Le Mans Hall, St. Mary S. College, Notre Dame, IN 46556.

Most people will take US-31 to get to Saint Mary's.

Classes begin on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

Taylor University

Taylor University is located at 1846 S. Main St., Upland, IN 46989.

To get to Taylor, most travelers will take I-69.

Classes start on Aug. 26, 2024.

Trine University

Trine University is located at 1 University Ave., Angola, IN 46703.

Most travelers will take I-69 to Trine.

Classes will begin on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame is located at Holy Cross Drive, Notre Dame, IN 46556.

To get to Notre Dame, most travelers will take US-31.

The fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University is located at 1700 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383.

Travelers heading to Valparaiso will most likely take I-65.

Classes start on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024.

Wabash College

Wabash College is located at 301 W. Wabash Ave., Crawfordsville, IN 47933.

Most travelers will take I-74 to get to campus.

The fall semester starts Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024.

Central Indiana colleges

Butler University

Butler University is located at 4600 Sunset Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46208.

To get to Butler, most travelers will take I-65.

Classes start on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024.

DePauw University

Depauw University is located at 204 E. Seminary St., Greencastle, IN 46135.

To get to campus, most travelers will take I-70.

The fall semester begins on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024.

Earlham College

Earlham College is located at 801 W. National Road, Richmond, IN 47374.

To get to Earlham, most travelers will take I-70.

Classes start on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024.

Indiana University Indianapolis

Indiana University Indianapolis is located at 420 University Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46202.

Most travelers will take I-65 to get to campus.

Classes begin on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

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Ivy Tech Community College

Ivy Tech's main campus is located at 50 W. Fall Creek Parkway N. Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46208.

Most travelers will take US-31 to get to the campus.

The fall semester starts Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

Marian University

Marian University is located at 3200 Cold Spring Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222.

Most travelers will take I-65 to get to Marian's campus.

Classes begin on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

Martin University

Martin University is located at 2186 N. Sherman Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46218.

Travelers heading to Martin's campus will take I-465 or I-70.

Classes will begin on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024.

Purdue University Indianapolis

Purdue University in Indianapolis is located at 799 W. Michigan Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202.

Most travelers will take I-65 to get to Purdue's Indianapolis campus.

The fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

University of Indianapolis

The University of Indianapolis is located at 1400 E. Hanna Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46227.

Most travelers will take I-65 to get to UIndy's campus.

The fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

Southern Indiana colleges

Franklin College

Franklin College is located at 101 Branigin Boulevard, Franklin, IN 46131.

Most people traveling to Franklin will take I-65.

Classes start on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

Hanover College

Hanover College is located at 517 Ball Drive, Hanover, IN 47243.

Most people going to Hanover will take I-65.

The fall semester starts on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

Indiana State University

Indiana State University is located at 200 N. 7th St., Terre Haute, IN 47809.

Travelers heading to campus will likely take I-70.

Classes begin on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024.

Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington is located at 107 S. Indiana Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405.

Most travelers headed to campus will take I-69.

The fall semester starts Monday, Aug. 26.

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Oakland City University

Oakland City University is located at 138 N. Lucretia St, Oakland City, IN 47660.

Those headed to campus will likely take I-69.

Classes begin on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024.

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

The Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology is located at 5500 Wabash Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47803.

Most people heading to campus will take I-70.

Rose-Hulman has a quarterly schedule as opposed to semesters like most Indiana colleges. Classes for quarter one begins on Sept. 2, 2024.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is located at 1 St. Mary of Woods Coll., Saint Mary of the Woods, IN 47876.

Travelers heading to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods will typically take I-70.

Classes start on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024.

University of Evansville

The University of Evansville is located at 1800 Lincoln Ave, Evansville, IN 47714.

Those heading to campus will likely take I-69.

Classes begin on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024.

University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana is located at 8600 University Blvd, Evansville, IN 47712.

Most travelers headed to USI will take I-69.

The fall semester starts on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

Vincennes University

Vincennes University is located at 1002 N. 1st St, Vincennes, IN 47591.

Those heading to campus will typically take I-69 and US-150.

Classes start on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.

Katie Wiseman is a trending news reporter at IndyStar. Contact her at klwiseman@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @itskatiewiseman.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Some of Indiana's colleges and universities locations, start dates
(WFRV)  Safety is a key factor when choosing a neighborhood to buy a home, and a recent study shows that seven suburbs in Wisconsin rank within the top 360 as Americas Safest Suburbs.

According to a study conducted by SmartAsset, a financial technology company headquartered in New York, Wisconsin only has seven of the safest suburbs within the top 360.

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SmartAsset compared data for 360 places that are within 15 to 45 minutes of the 100 largest U.S. cities by car, that have at least 5,000 residents, and follow the following metrics:

Violent Crime Rate  The number of violent crimes per 100,000 residents. Data comes from the FBIs 2022 Uniform Crime Reporting Database; missing crime data was supplemented by NeighborhoodScout.com.

Property Crime Rate  The number of property crimes per 100,000 residents. Data comes from the FBIs 2022 Uniform Crime Reporting Database; missing crime data was supplemented by NeighborhoodScout.com.

Vehicular Mortality Rate  The number of deaths due to traffic accidents per 100,000 residents. Data is from the 2024 County Health Rankings.

Drug Poisoning Mortality Rate  The number of drug poisoning deaths per 100,000 residents. Data is from the 2024 County Health Rankings.

Percentage of the Population Engaging in Excessive Drinking  The percentage of adults who consumed more than four drinks of alcohol for women or five drinks of alcohol for men on a single occasion over a 30-day period or who engage in heavy drinking, which is defined as drinking more than one drink per day for women or two drinks a day for men on average. Data is from the 2022 County Health Rankings.

The vehicular mortality rate, drug poisoning mortality rate, and percentage of the population engaging in excessive drinking are all measured at the county level. Violent and property crime rates are at the city level.

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To measure the housing affordability of the 35 safest suburbs, SmartAsset compared them across the following metrics:

Median Monthly Housing Costs  Data comes from the Census Bureaus 5-year American Community Survey from 2022.

Median household Income  Data comes from the Census Bureaus 5-year American Community Survey from 2022.

Wisconsins highest-ranking suburb, Menomonee Falls, is ranked #242. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.00256, the property crime per capita is 0.01326, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents are 5.82, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 23.2%.

Shortly behind Menomonee Falls is Waukesha, ranked at #245. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.00596, the property crime per capita is 0.01349, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents are 5.82, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 23.2%.

Port Washington is ranked at #273. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.00378, the property crime per capita is 0.01109, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents are 7.03, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 24.8%.

Shortly behind Port Washington is Grafton, ranked at #275. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.00222, the property crime per capita is 0.01554, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents are 7.03, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 24.8%.

SmartAsset ranked Fort Atkinson at #314. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.01054, the property crime per capita is 0.01845, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents are 11.62, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 23.8%.

DeForest is ranked at #326. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.00594, the property crime per capita is 0.01913, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents is 7.11, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 25.7%.

The final suburb in Wisconsin that falls in the rankings is Edgerton, ranked at #332. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.00340, the property crime per capita is 0.01089, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents are 12.99, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 22.0%.

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Lehi, Utah, was ranked #1 in SmartAssets study. The violent crime reported per capita is 0.00083, the property crime per capita is 0.00715, the motor vehicle crash deaths per 100,000 residents are 5.75, and the percentage of adults engaged in excessive drinking is 9.04%.

For the rest of the study, you can head over to SmartAssets website here.

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Stephen Foulger, an environmental scientist with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, ties a pink ribbon around a pipe fitting that has a small gas leak that he found using a Flir gas detection camera during an inspection of an oil pump site near Roosevelt on Dec. 1, 2021. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A specially equipped jet aircraft measured 70% of the nations sites of onshore oil and gas production to detect the level of methane emissions  a supercharged pollutant with harmful health implications and a costly waste for industry.

The Environmental Defense Funds MethaneAir research jet found producers across the U.S. are emitting methane into the atmosphere at over four times the rates estimated by the Environmental Protection Agency for those same areas, based on industry-reported data. The results also show that operators are exceeding their own emissions goals by as much as eightfold.

The remote sensing tools make it possible to weigh the accuracy of reported methane emissions at the basin and sub-basin levels, from a diversity of oil and gas producing regions, for the first time. This in turn will help inform key policy and regulatory developments, including emissions reporting and state and federal implementation of EPA standards to cut oil and gas methane pollution.

The data compiled from over 30 flights from June to October last year showed the aggregate emission rate observed across large portions of the countrys 12 major production basins would amount to 7.5 million metric tons per year (or about 860 metric tons of methane pollution every hour). The EDF says thats enough wasted gas to meet the annual energy needs of over half of U.S. homes. And the Uinta Basin in eastern Utah has the countrys highest loss rate of 7.8%, per the analysis.

Utah must work with oil and gas companies to reduce methane waste. Wasted methane not only adversely affects those living in the basin but is also an economic loss for companies and taxpayers, said Nini Gu, a regulatory and legislative manager at EDF. We applaud the state for its Beehive Emission Reduction Plan and hope that, along with a strong state plan for new oil and gas methane standards, will make Utah and the Uinta Basin a safer and healthier place to live.

Utahs methane struggles are nothing new

A 2021 study conducted by Utah researchers concluded the basin has a high leakage rate of 6% to 8% in that region  much higher than what was reported as 2.3% for the national average. Part of that is due to an abundance of low-producing wells.

This EDF probe discovered data that shows:

Highest total emissions were seen in the Permian Basin, followed by Appalachian and Haynesville basins, in terms of absolute emissions.

Gas-dominant basins with high well-site productivity (Appalachian, Haynesville) have comparatively lower, though still unacceptably high, methane loss rates.

Relatively mature basins where oil/gas production and infrastructure is dominated by aging, leak-prone, low producing wells  such as Uinta  have extremely high methane loss rates possibly due in part to fugitive methane emissions that continue to go unaddressed even as production declines.

Rikki Hrenko-Browning, president of the Utah Petroleum Association, said her organization has not had a chance to review the data and the methodology, so she could not comment directly on the EDF findings.

She did stress the industry is constantly acting to contain emissions.

As an industry, we evolve perpetually to optimize our operations to prevent fugitive methane emissions. The reasons for this are twofold: 1) The thousands of employees who work in our industry are stewards of the environment as they work to provide the power we need for our daily lives, she said. They work diligently to protect the environment at every step of the oil and gas development process and adhere to all local and federal regulations; and 2) Methane is one of the saleable products we produce, and keeping it in our tanks and pipes simply makes good business sense.

Utah producers have taken a host of voluntary actions to reduce emissions, such as installation of solar pumps, tank isolation valves and its own flyovers, she said. Information on those efforts can be found here.

The EDF research says not only does the methane pose pollution and health implications for the United States but has the potential for global implications.

U.S. operators may face new emissions standards to be developed for gas shipped into the European Union, the worlds largest market for imported gas. It adds that mitigation of supply chain methane footprints are also under discussion in South Korea and Japan, both major markets for internationally traded gas. The financial losses are huge, according to EDF, which says the wasted natural gas is worth an estimated $48 million every year, which costs Utah taxpayers about $6.7 million in lost potential tax revenue.

Addressing the problem

The Utah Legislature has provided funding for the ULend program in which infrared cameras, valued at $100,000, are lent to small oil and gas producers to detect leaks.

State regulators say the program accomplishes a couple of different wins  helping producers stop leaks and recover a marketable product, and of course the resulting pollution reductions.

Logan Mitchell, an atmospheric scientist who helped conduct the 2021 study and now works as climate scientist and air quality scientist for Utah Clean Energy, said there needs to be greater emphasis on capturing methane.

I mean, we have the technology to find and capture this wasted gas, this wasted energy, and by doing that, well not only be better stewards of the environment, but were going to be more economically competitive as were moving into a future where were trying to reduce pollution, he said. And, you know, I want the United States to be a leader in developing that technology and that capability.

Mitchell added that pending federal incentives will offer ways to act in a bipartisan fashion and employ common sense to combat methane pollution.

So this is this really a golden opportunity for Utah if we can understand our leakage better, where the leaks are occurring, why theyre occurring, then we can better take advantage of the incentives.
Suburban man guilty after exporting firearm parts to Israel

CHICAGO  A Palos Hills man pleaded guilty to federal charges for illegally shipping firearm parts to Israel.

Amin Betuni, 22, admitted in a plea agreement that he shipped the firearm parts to people in Israel on at least three occasions in 2022, according to authorities.

The parts were on the United States Commerce Control List and subject to federal export regulations.

Chicago voters may now apply to Vote By Mail for November election

Betuni pleaded guilty to knowingly and fraudulently exporting firearm parts.

His sentencing hearing is scheduled for Nov. 6.

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Sumy Oblast authorities announced further mandatory evacuation of 23 border settlements in the region amid intensified Russian attacks, Governor Volodymyr Artiukh said on Aug. 7.

Over the past day, Moscow's troops have increased aviation activity near the border areas of Sumy Oblast, dropping about 30 guided aerial bombs on the settlements, Ukraine's General Staff said in its latest update.

The announcement coincides with reports of Ukraine's cross-border incursion into Russia's Kursk Oblast. Moscow said clashes on Russian soil began on Aug. 6 and they have continued into the next day.

Kyiv has not commented on the incursion.

Speaking on national television, Artiukh described the situation in the region as "quite tense," but under the control of the Ukraine's Armed Forces.

Up to 6,000 people, including 425 children, can be evacuated to safe places, he said.

Earlier in the day, a source in intelligence services told the Kyiv Independent that a Ukrainian first-person-view (FPV) drone hit a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter over Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6. According to the crowd-sourced monitoring website DeepState, one Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter and at least two tanks were destroyed.

Since the Russian-occupied parts of Sumy Oblast were liberated in early April 2022, the region has been experiencing daily strikes from across the border, as it is located on Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia.

Read also: Putin calls clashes in Russias Kursk region large-scale provocation

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Kelly Ayotte files as a candidate for governor at the Secretary of State's Office in Concord on June 13, 2024. (Claire Sullivan | New Hampshire Bulletin)

Gov. Chris Sununu endorsed former U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte to be the next New Hampshire governor Wednesday, choosing her over former Senate President Chuck Morse as his preferred successor.

In a post on the social media website X, Sununu, a Republican who is not seeking reelection, argued Ayotte would be the best candidate to continue his economic policies.

Kelly Ayotte understands that with strong fiscal management, limited government, and local control, (New Hampshire) has set the Gold Standard for the country, Sununu wrote. Shes the Republican who will win in November and hit the ground running in January. Count me in as an enthusiastic supporter!

The move aligns Sununu with a candidate who herself has aligned with Sununus efforts as governor, and has attacked her Democratic opponents, former Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig and Executive Councilor Cinde Warmington, for suggesting an alternative approach. She reiterated that defense in her own statement reacting to Sununus endorsement Wednesday.

Our state is only one election from becoming something we are not, she said. Joyce Craig and Cinde Warmington think the Massachusetts model is a better path than the one Governor Sununu has put us on  that couldnt be further from the truth.

The decision also represents a break in Sununus support for Morse. Morse served as Senate president in four out of Sununus eight years as governor, working with the governor on budgets and helping to pass or kill many of Sununus priorities.

When Morse stepped down in 2022 to run a campaign for U.S. Senate to unseat Sen. Maggie Hassan, Sununu endorsed him in the Republican primary against Brig. Gen. Don Bolduc; Bolduc won the primary but lost to Hassan.

In his gubernatorial campaign, Morse has presented himself as the true champion of conservative governance, pointing to his work in the state Senate passing business tax cuts, education freedom accounts, and a ban on abortions after 24 weeks. But Ayotte  the former state attorney general who has made criticism of Democratic-run Massachusetts a touchstone of her campaign  has taken a broader approach to campaigning that has seen her touring state businesses and aligning herself closely with law enforcement. In doing so, Ayotte has adopted some of Sununus own political tactics.

Following the endorsement, Sununu and Ayotte said they would take part in a Super 603 Day Thursday in which they will tour state attractions.

The state primary is Sept. 10.
Super PAC that supported Burgum returns donation that was subject of FEC complaint

Gov. Doug Burgum participates in the first debate of the GOP primary season hosted by FOX News at the Fiserv Forum on Aug. 23, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He suspended his campaign in December 2023. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

A super PAC that supported Gov. Doug Burgums White House bid has returned a $150,000 contribution to a business accused of being a straw donor, a document filed this week shows.

The Campaign Legal Center, a D.C.-based nonprofit, in February filed a Federal Election Commission complaint against Head East LLC, alleging the corporation appears to exist solely on paper and was only created to hide the source of the payment.

Head East was incorporated in North Dakota on July 24, 2023, according to documents filed with the North Dakota Secretary of States Office. The complaint states that Head East LLC donated the $150,000 to the Best of America political action committee 15 days later.

The Best of America PAC backed Burgums campaign, but is not directly affiliated with the governor.

Campaign finance records the PAC submitted to the FEC on Tuesday indicate the payment was refunded to Head East on April 8. The document does not indicate a reason for the refund.

If the FEC investigates the complaint and concludes its substantiated, it could decide to bring civil fines or make a referral for criminal charges.

Judith Ingram, press officer for the FEC, said the agency does not comment on pending or potential complaints.

Janel Forsythe, a media associate for the Campaign Legal Center, said the nonprofit could not comment at this time.

Best of America did not immediately respond to an email and phone call seeking comment Wednesday.

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UPDATE: EPPD released mugshot up suspect Jorge Armando Lopez, Jr., 22,

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  El Paso Police have arrested the man they say shot a clerk in the head during an altercation at a Far East El Paso Circle K store Friday night.

Jorge Armando Lopez, Jr., 22, is charged with Aggravated Assault Causing Serious Bodily Injury and is being held at the El Paso County Detention Center on a $1 million bond.

According to court documents obtained by KTSM, police responded to Circle K at 12680 Montana Ave. at Rich Beem around 7:40 p.m. to reports of a subject with a weapon call.

Later, around 9:40 p.m., the suspect, later identified as Lopez, returned to Circle K, walked into the store, and threw a Whataburger drink at the clerk. Surveillance allegedly shows Lopez exiting the store while the clerk follows him outside toward the gas pumps. The clerk punctures Lopezs rear tire and runs along a semi-truck parked toward Rich Beem.

Thats when court records say Lopez chases the clerk and shoots him in the head before fleeing south on Rich Beem.

Shortly after, two officers who were responding to another shots-fired call in East El Paso were flagged down by a man in the parking lot of a Family Dollar located at 12820 Edgemere. The officers recognized Lopez as the same person from the prior call at Circle K which responded to around 7:40 p.m. and took him into custody.

Documents state Lopez initially stated he shot the store clerk after he came at him with a knife. However, a review of the surveillance cameras reportedly showed otherwise.

The store clerk was last reported to be on life support.

KTSM has contacted Circle K for comment and has yet to hear back.

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A reward is being offered for information on a suspect wanted for the murder of a Southern California Army veteran.

On Tuesday, a $10,000 reward was approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for information on the 2020 murder of Ismael Zabala, 26.

The suspects allegedly involved were Oscar Palazuelos, 19, and Ervin Alvarez, 25, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

On Dec. 20, 2020, Zabala attended a cousins birthday party at his aunts Lancaster home on the 400 block of West Avenue J-12.

The two suspects showed up at the party after being invited by another attendee. At some point, the two men were asked to leave the home and a fight started at the front door.

Zabala and another person tried intervening but were assaulted during the confrontation.

The victim, Ismael Zabala, is seen in a photo from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

A suspect, Oscar Palazuelos, is seen in a photo from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department.

From left: Victim Ismael Zabala and suspect Oscar Palazuelos (right) are seen in photos shared by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department on July 27, 2021.

Thats when the suspects pulled out handguns and a shot was fired into Zabalas chest, said LASD. Zabalas younger brother was shot in the hand.

The suspects fled the scene before deputies could arrive. Zabala was transported to the hospital where he died from his injuries. His brother survived the shooting.

Authorities later arrested Alvarez in connection with the murder, however, Palazuelos remains at large. LASD said Palazuelos is the one who allegedly fired the shot that killed Zabala. Investigators believe Palazuelos is aware that he is wanted and has gone into hiding.

The victim was honorably discharged from the Army in March 2020 after getting hurt in a training accident, the Los Angeles Times reported.

It was humiliating: Woman said she was removed from L.A. flight over medical condition

The victims father, Alex Zabala, described his son as a great kid who was always smiling. He said Zabala, who is the second oldest of eight children, had just gotten out of the army a few months before his death.

On the night of his murder, Zabala was accompanied to the party by several of his brothers and had been looking forward to the party. He was surrounded by family members at the time of his death.

He couldnt wait for that day, Alex told the L.A. Times. He was inviting everyone he could.

A $10,000 reward is being offered by L.A. County officials for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of Palazuelos.

Nearly four years have passed since Ismaels life tragically ended and his loved ones continue to feel the terrible pain of his loss, said L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger. It is unconscionable that he was murdered in front of his family. I remain hopeful that reestablishing this $10,000 reward will encourage someone to step forward and provide a critical tip so an arrest can be made. Justice must be served.

Anyone with information on the case can call the LASDs Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5554 and ask to speak with Lt. Michael Gomez or Sgt. Cynthia Toone.

Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

The family, who have been helpful during the investigation and remain in contact with the investigators, are devastated by this senseless tragedy, investigators said.

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A Diamondhead man accused of a decades-old killing in North Carolina was extradited on Tuesday to Southern California, where authorities charged him in the 1977 killings of three more women.

Warren Luther Alexander, 73, faces three counts of first-degree murder that stem from a series of unsolved strangulations of three women, the Ventura County Sheriffs Office announced in a news release on Wednesday.

Alexander arrived in California on Tuesday. He previously was held in Surry County, North Carolina, where he was awaiting prosecution for the 1992 cold case killing of Nona Stamey Cobb. He was arrested on that charge in 2022 in Diamondhead.

In California, Alexander is accused in the deaths of three women: Kimberly Carol Fritz, 18, Velvet Ann Sanchez, 31, and Lorraine Ann Rodriguez, 21.

He appeared in Ventura County court Wednesday morning and is held without bail, the Sheriffs Office said.

In the news release, the Ventura County Sheriffs Office called Alexander a suspected serial killer. The agency said its cold case unit started to re-examine the killings in February last year.
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Opening statements and testimony began Tuesday in the jury trial against Javier Arias, an Odessa man accused of kidnapping, raping, or attempting to rape four women in 2022.

Arias faces a total of eight counts across all four cases, including Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, and Attempt to Commit Aggravated Sexual Assault. Prosecutors Kourtney Williams and Meagan Wyatt said that on April 26, 2022, and again on at least three occasions in July of that same year, Arias picked up four homeless or transient women and offered them help in the form of ride, before allegedly driving the women to a secluded road and sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault them.

The most vulnerable people in our community, said Wyatt. He got them alone in his vehicle, drove them to an isolated area, and assaulted them.

Defense attorney Johanna Curry said Arias, a husband and father, was only guilty of one thing- trying to hire a prostitute.

(He) went in search of prostitutesoffered them money. He doesnt speak English and when they (the women) entered his vehicle he believed they accepted his offer of money for sex. When he was paying them, they saw he had a lot more money. When he didnt give them more, well they withdrew their consent after the fact. We are not here to punish him for prostitution, Curry said.

In late April of 2022, investigators with the Ector County Sheriffs Office began looking for an unknown suspect after a woman told deputies shed been sexually assaulted.

According to court documents released when Arias was arrested, ECSO deputies were called to the area of Pool Road and Grandview about a possible assault. There, deputies met with a woman, identified as AV, who said she had been in the area of 17th Street and FM 1936 standing in front of a red building that used to be a game room, but was now abandoned, when she was approached by a man in a white Chevrolet Tahoe.

The victim told investigators she was standing in front of the building looking at a desk inside the front room and was wondering if it might be for sale. She said the man in the Tahoe told her she should have the desk and then offered to buy her some food. She agreed to get food with the unknown man and got into the backseat of his vehicle.

She said the man began driving toward Interstate 20 and then turned down a lease road, parked, and then jumped into the backseat. She said the man offered to pay her for sex, and when she refused, he climbed on top of her and tried to unbutton her pants. When she tried to resist the man reportedly started punching her in the face.

Eventually, the man gave up and told her to get out of the vehicle and that is when she ran to a nearby business for help.

The case remained open with no real leads and no new reports of similar assaults until July. Then, on July 8, a woman, identified as BM, reported to the Odessa Police Department and said shed been assaulted the day before by an unknown man; that report shared similarities with the April report, investigators said, because BM reported that a man in a white SUV picked her up, drove her to a secluded area, and raped her.

On July 11, a man called 911 and said hed found an 18-year-old girl on the side of the road whod been beaten and raped.

Were on south Grandview, the Good Samaritan told a 911 dispatcher in a recording that was played for jurors on Tuesday. I have a lady who said a man put her in his car and raped her and he beat her up.

Blake Terry, a fire fighter and paramedic working with Odessa Fire Rescue, responded to the scene that night and found a woman, identified as BR, with injuries to her face, including a busted nose, broken teeth, and bruising.

She explained that she had been picked up at a hoteland the man that picked her up took her to a pumpjack and raped her. She fought him and he left her there and she had to find her way back to the road to get help, Terry testified. She was cryingshe was upset. Her entire face was bruised up.

BR took the stand Tuesday and testified about the events of that evening. The transient teen, who said shed rarely had a stable home in her life and had been bounced around from foster home to foster home before she turned 18, said she came to Odessa believing she had a safe place to live. When that fell through, the teen said a Good Samaritan put her up in a hotel room on Highway 80 for the night and connected her with resources around the area that might be able to help fund a bus ticket back to San Antonio, where shed been living in a shelter prior to coming to Odessa.

When her stay at the hotel was up, BR said she stood outside the hotel to charge her phone in an outside outlet while she made calls to local shelters and others who might be able to help. During that time, BR said Arias approached her in his white SUV.

I was trying to get to Midland to catch a Greyhound busI saw a white Chevy pull up, BR testified. He rolled down the window and was talking to me in Spanish. I went up to the window and he said agua and dinero. I knew agua meant water, but I didnt know what dinero meant. I used Google Translate and asked him for a ride to Midland.

BR said that Arias didnt go to Midland, but instead headed to a secluded area and drove down a lease road.

There were no cars around. No houses. I kept thinking, whats gonna happen? I was very scared; how do I get out of this? He parked his car and pointed at my pants and said dinero. He pulled on my pants and got very aggressive and thats when it clicked. I figured out what he wanted, BR testified.

When Williams asked BR if she was a prostitute that day, she answered No quite emphatically.

I just wanted to get back to San Antonio. I tried to open the door, but he reached over and closed it. Then, he gets on my lap and Im crying, and he didnt understand English, so I hit him. I made him mad, and he hit me back, she said.

BR said it didnt end with just one hit and that Arias kept raining blows upon her face.

I was going in and out of consciousness because of the number of blows. I swallowed pieces of my teeth, she said.

After several minutes and many punches, BR said Arias pointed to the backseat of his vehicle, indicating that he wanted her to move from the front seat to the back.

I didnt want that, I said I didnt want that, but he raised his handsI thought I was gonna die. I thought he was going to kill me, she said.

After moving to the back seat, BR said that Arias raped her, and then told her to clean herself with a baby wipe.

I just let him do what he needed to do, she said, .

When the assault was over, BR said Arias threw her purse and phone into the far back part of his vehicle and told her to get out, he then drove away and left the teen alone in an unfamiliar part of town.

I had no idea where I was. I just walked back the way we cameto the road and a car drove by with two men. They stopped and they called 911 and they let me call my mom.

ECSO investigators met BR at the hospital that night and took her statement, but they still didnt know the name of the man who had, by then, attacked at least three different women.

Investigators caught a break on July 20, when the suspect allegedly struck again in the same area. That afternoon, an Oncor employee called 911 after he saw suspicious activity on a lease road off Pool Road and Industrial Avenue.

Theres someone on the side of the road asking for helpshe said shes been raped. Shes trying to get away from someone, he only speaks Spanish. The gentleman is telling me he was only trying to help, the caller told a 911 dispatcher in a call that was also played for jurors.

That bystanders testified that he was working and came upon a white SUV parked along a lease road.

I saw flailing hands, the witness testified. Waving hands coming from the back of the vehicle and that concerned me. A woman approached my door asking for help, trying to open my door. She was crying, she was scared.

The witness said as he was trying to call 911 and figure out what was going on, the man in the SUV told him he didnt want any problems.

He kept saying he didnt want to get into any trouble and was just trying to give her a ride home. He only spoke in Spanish and kept repeating that he didnt want any problems, the witness said.

The man in the white SUV left the scene before law enforcement arrived, but the victim, identified as LB said the suspect had offered her a ride and that when she found herself in a secluded area, she was afraid she was going to be raped, so she jumped from the moving vehicle to try and get away and was injured in the process. The victim said the suspect threw her back into the vehicle after she tried to escape and began to assault her further but was stopped when the witness drove onto the lease road.

She said she left a game room looking for a ride to Midland. Arias said he could give her a ride but once they left the parking lot, he took her to an area she didnt recognize, said ECSO Investigator Christopher Bell. She knew what was going to happen and she told me that she prayed if something was going to happen that it wouldnt last long, and she prayed or help to come. She jumped from the vehicle and the vehicle stopped and backed up. Then he (the suspect) picked her up and placed her in the back seat and began touching her. She just kept praying for someone to stop and thats when she saw a vehicle approaching.

LB, was injured when she jumped from the moving vehicle and she was taken to the hospital where she was treated for a broken hand.

The bone in her hand was shattered, said Doctor Brian Taylor, who treated LB at Medical Center Hospital that day. She was afraid she was going to get raped and when she realized she was in great danger, she jumped from the vehicle. The bone was broken into pieces, it takes a great deal of force to get that type of injury. There were signs of injuries across her body.

Because this case involved a witness who simply stumbled upon the scene, investigators caught their first break, in the form of a partial plate number written on temporary tags. Multiple investigators that day jumped into action and traced the vehicle to Arias home; he was taken into custody for questioning shortly after his vehicle was located and investigators who interviewed Arias said he changed his story multiple times.

Im a married man. I have a daughter. Im a good person, Arias said upon questioning, according to testimony given by ECSO investigator Aaron Villalobos. Initially he kept denying any involvement, but he changed his story and said he went to the area for sex for money. This was his go-to placehe said everything was mutual and everyone was happy with the agreement.

However, each investigator said when they approached the victims to have them try and identify the suspect from a photo lineup, they each became emotional, and identified Arias as their assailant without hesitation. And all four denied that theyd agreed to have sex in exchange for money, investigators said.

Testimony in this trial is expected to resume Wednesday, we will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  In response to the potentially dangerous conditions caused by Tropical Storm Debby, Charlotte Fire and Mooresville Fire-Rescues swiftwater rescue teams have been deployed to assist other North Carolina counties.

Charlotte Fires swiftwater rescue team is being deployed to Elizabethtown in Bladen County. The team left Charlotte around 8 a.m. Wednesday morning to assist.

Mooresville Fire-Rescues swiftwater rescue team

Charlotte Fires swiftwater rescue team

The deployment consists of a Type 1 swiftwater team, whose primary job is to rescue or evacuate individuals stranded by floodwaters.

The Town of Harrisburg Fire Department is also sending crews to Bladen County. They are sending an eight-member crew and three trucks equipped with emergency supplies, including swiftwater rescue boats, motors, an ATV, fuel, first-aid supplies, spare tires, cots and air mattresses.

(Town of Harrisburg Fire Department)

(Town of Harrisburg Fire Department)

(Town of Harrisburg Fire Department)

(Town of Harrisburg Fire Department)

(Town of Harrisburg Fire Department)

(Town of Harrisburg Fire Department)

Our crews are fully prepared and equipped to handle the challenges that Tropical Storm Debby may bring, said Harrisburg Fire Chief, Bryan Dunn. We are ready to support Bladen County and work alongside our neighboring fire departments to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.

The Mooresville Fire-Rescues 11-person swiftwater rescue team is headed to Harnett County to assist communities impacted by rising waters and potential flooding. In Mooresville, firefighters are ready to respond to any weather-related emergencies locally.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Johnson County Commissioner Shirley Allenbrand, who is seeking a second term to represent the countys large western district, and challenger Mike Storm were the top vote-getters in their Aug. 6 primary race.

The winners will advance to the Nov. 5 election to compete for the seat in the booming district transforming with residential and industrial growth. The incumbent Allenbrand won 5,831 votes, followed by newcomer Storm with 3,062 votes, and Tony Bergida, with 2,835, according to unofficial final results reported at about 9 p.m. Tuesday.

Allenbrand, an Olathe native who previously owned senior care facilities, won her first term in 2020, defeating the conservative now-Kansas GOP Chairman Mike Brown. A longtime moderate Republican, Allenbrand recently switched her political affiliation to Democrat after splintering with the local Republican party, which has moved further to the right.

In her campaign for a second term, she is running on the promise of helping the county appropriately manage its economic growth, which includes the development of the $4 billion Panasonic plant in De Soto, while keeping property taxes low. She has touted that shes voted to lower the mill levy each year of her term.

Both of her primary opponents campaigned on a more conservative approach to county governance.

Storm, a Johnson County native and business owner who previously ran for the community college board of trustees, called for the most extreme change. He promoted eliminating or privatizing the countys mental health center, the homeless shelter under development and other programs, plus taking extra money out of reserve funds, to slash taxes.

Bergida, a small business owner who serves on the Olathe Planning Commission, argues Johnson Countys budget has increased by too much too quickly, and commissioners should take greater action to provide tax relief to residents. He also opposes the use of tax incentives for many projects, including large apartment complexes.

The candidates also disagreed on the county working to establish a permanent homeless shelter, by converting a shuttered hotel off of Interstate 35 in Lenexa. Advocates have long pleaded for such a resource in the county that has some beds for women and families, but no permanent shelter for adult men.

The county has used federal COVID-19 relief dollars for the purchase and conversion of the hotel, a project that is now estimated to cost more than $10 million. Officials selected reStart, the Kansas City-based homeless services organization, to own and operate the shelter. But the county and each of its cities are also being asked to contribute annual funding in its first years to help it get started.

Allenbrand said the county was wise to use federal funding to finally bring a permanent shelter to Johnson County, and has pushed back against misinformation and fear-mongering about the project. She said she would like municipalities to only be asked to contribute annual funding for a few years, and then hopes the project will be self-sufficient, with the help of donations and grants.

People living here need help because they dont have a home in Johnson County right now. They may be working here, but they dont have a home. Thats why they need help, she said. Theres so much misinformation out there. I feel theres so many people committed to getting this done that I feel its going to be very successful.

Storm criticized the project and its price tag.

I think we can claw some money back, put that to rest and use our money wisely, he said during a candidate debate.
Tacomans give police services low marks in recent community survey. What do they like?

The results of Tacomas 2024 community survey are in, and as far as respondents are concerned, the city has some work to do in one major area: police services.

The city issues a community survey every two years. The most-recent one was conducted in June and July, and 905 residents throughout each of the five council districts participated.

Members of the City Council heard a presentation on the 2024 findings during a study session on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

In addition to low police-services ratings, residents trust in local government was fairly poor. Tacoma did well in other areas, such as customer service and utilities.

Jacques Colon, the citys chief strategy officer, told local leaders that the survey acts as a point-in-time snapshot. Various factors contribute to how respondents were feeling when they answered questions, he said.

So, as with all of the data sources that we look at, Colon said, its important to look at the story thats being told by this data, but also important to recognize that there are many other pieces of data that help fill out what the real story is on the ground.

Results are meant to guide the city as it makes decisions concerning its 10-year strategic plan, Community Safety Action Strategy, budget and more, said Ryan Murray of the ETC Institute, which was hired to conduct the effort.

The city spent $37,730 on the survey, taken from the general fund, city spokesperson Maria Lee told The News Tribune via email.

Trust in government, economic health

Murray characterized participants trust in their municipal government as relatively low. More than three-quarters of respondents (76%) said their trust in Tacomas government was poor or fair. Only 24% rated it as good or excellent.

Participants answered certain financial questions on par with folks in other areas of the country, Murray said. For example, nearly 60% said they were dissatisfied/very dissatisfied with the citys cost of living. When it comes to its overall economic health, 46% said the same.

Those are the signs of the times, Murray explained, adding that some of the unhappiness might be attributable to the fact that its an election year. And what we typically will see is [in a] post-election year, we will see a slight uptick in some of these perception-related results.

The Tacoma Municipal Building downtown.

Tacomas police and fire services

Tacoma performed poorly in the police-services category.

Nearly 6 in 10 respondents answered they are dissatisfied, or very much so, with police efforts to prevent crime in their community. Forty-six percent answered that way when asked about police services overall quality, and 56% said the same in terms of how fast police respond to emergencies.

Murray pointed out that such views of law enforcement are part of a broader trend, particularly in the West  less so in other areas, such as the Midwest or states like Texas.

At the same time, satisfaction with fire and Emergency Medical Services was quite high in Tacoma. For instance, only 2% of participants disapproved of fire services quality.

When we talk about overall perceptions of the Police Department  theyre relatively low, Murray said. And this is likely something thats not occurring based on service levels of the Police Department, but rather a perception-related issue within the community itself.

Certain Facebook users watching a livestream of the study session didnt like such framing. They argued that couching it that way is dismissive, and that residents responses were rooted in their everyday experiences.

Community safety in Tacoma

Many Tacoma residents apparently dont feel safe after the sun goes down. While 16% said they feel unsafe/very unsafe in their neighborhood during the day, that number ballooned to 44% at night.

Deputy Mayor John Hines commented on this finding following the presentation.

Looking at the number of our residents who feel safe in their neighborhoods during the day versus at night, and just the sheer shift makes me think a lot more about things like street lights, he said. How could  something like that, that is completely unrelated to normal ways we approach safety, actually really shift and drive some of the perceptions of safety we see in our community?

In addition, more than half of survey respondents said they feel unsafe/very unsafe in the downtown area.

Other highlights included how residents feel about Tacomas facade. Just 30% of respondents were satisfied/very satisfied with both the citys overall image and its appearance.

Looking ahead, the ETC Institute recommends that Tacoma give high-priority status to four infrastructure-related areas of service: adequacy of street lighting, condition of major streets, neighborhood walkability and cleanliness of public areas/streets, per the surveys executive summary.

Customer service and survey usefulness

Tacoma performed well in certain regards.

Roughly 60% of residents who had contacted the citys customer service said they were treated courteously over the phone, Murray said, which goes a long way in building that trust.

Many folks are similarly pleased with how close they live to essential daily services like parks and schools: Nearly three-quarters of respondents counted themselves as satisfied or very much so.

The top four issues that residents want to see the city and its partners address in their neighborhoods are, according to the survey: homelessness, housing affordability, community safety and access to living-wage jobs.

Roughly half of participants said they were satisfied/very satisfied with the overall quality of life in Tacoma (48%), as well as feeling like they belong in the community (52%). People are also pleased with the citys water (72%) and electric utility (69%) services.

Murray said Tacomas utility services have been performing exceptionally well and underscored a 57% satisfaction rate for utility billing and customer service.

We do a lot of utility surveys here, Murray said. What I know for a fact is that most of the time that respondents call about utility billing, its most likely a question or a problem about their bill. And so, to receive such high rankings there is very great to see.

Council member Kristina Walker, who tuned into the session virtually, thanked the presenters.

Thank you for giving it to us now, too, right before the budget discussion, she said. Im sure this was intentional, but I think it will be super helpful as we talk about how we invest dollars into our community.
Kauli Vaast, of France, leaps over a wave during the second round of the 2024 Summer Olympics surfing competition Sunday, July 28, 2024, in Teahupo'o, Tahiti. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

TIAHURA, Tahiti (AP)  During their days on Tahiti's turquoise ocean some years ago, fishers noticed their catches  and the fish inside  were getting smaller.

With fishing being a vital part of the ways of Polynesian life, local leader Dominique Tehei, 51, and his fellow community members knew they needed to find a way to restore the ecosystem. They decided there was a customary Polynesian practice that could help them do it: creating a rahui.

The traditional conservation method of regulating human activity to help replenish and protect maritime ecosystems resources is being revived and showing results in Tahiti, including the area near the Paris Olympics surfing venue. While local communities and leaders acknowledge that rahui aren't a one-stop solution to all environmental issues, they're working with researchers and scientists to help strengthen the ground-up, community-based approach.

For centuries, rahui have been implemented in the French Polynesian islands, Hawaii and New Zealand, temporarily banning or restricting the harvesting of natural resources in designated areas, said Hunter Lenihan, an ecologist and co-director of the Rahui Forum and Resource Center headquartered in Moorea, Tahiti.

(The practice) was squashed by colonizers, said Lenihan, but ... is going through a revival that began intensively about a decade ago.

While the most common form of rahui is a no-fishing zone placed in a lagoon or offshore  like a marine reserve  rahui have also been established in local creeks and rivers in the form of planting taro crops to capture sediment from agriculture or other development before it flows into the ocean and harmfully settles onto reefs.

Even in the no-fishing zones, rules can vary based on the area's needs. Sometimes, fishing is only permitted during a certain season. Other times, only certain methods like line or spear fishing are permitted, forbidding the use of nets or cages. In some rahui, fishing and swimming is prohibited entirely, protecting some areas from tourism overdevelopment.

Decisions on where, how and when to establish a rahui are made and managed by community leaders.

In the years leading up to the 2019 establishment of the rahui in Teva I Uta, where Tehei lives, Tehei said he and other conservationists initially had a hard time convincing villagers that a rahui would be a good idea.

Fishing is what provides resource money and food, said Tehei. They were afraid of not being able to access it when they were in the most need. So of course they were a little nervous about that.

Going home to home, Tehei said they were able to convince villagers to allow certain sections of the reef and surrounding areas to be closed for two years at a time, leaving other sections still open for fishing activities.

Tehei hasn't been alone in his advocacy efforts for establishing rahui across Tahiti.

Members from the Rahui Forum and Resource Center visit and discuss with communities across Tahiti to help learn why they want to establish a rahui, then connect them with local nongovernmental organizations and community leaders who can help with the establishment process.

The system is built from ground up, said Lenihan.

Community leaders and government officials have also led information campaigns, with billboards and posters about rahui being posted across church, schools and town halls across Tahiti.

There are now dozens of rahui across Tahiti, including in Teahupoo, where surfers went head-to-head in the Paris Olympics surfing competition.

Signs mark their presence, informing visitors of regulations and penalties for violating them. Locals relaxing on the beach or working in tourism can point out buoys in the water marking the rahui zones while explaining how important they are for the communitys conservation efforts.

Acceptance of rahui has blossomed as well: A 2019 study by the Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy Project found that 90% of inhabitants in French Polynesia support rahui, much higher than the support for other legal conservation methods like protected marine areas. Rahui have been legally recognized in the French Polynesia environmental code since 2016.

But Tehei acknowledged the rahui system isn't perfect: Sometimes, it's hard to monitor the entire area, especially during new moons when it's darker outside. Other times, they've had to open a rahui before the ecosystem had a chance to fully recover, as part of their timeline promises to fishers. A lack of management during the opening of one rahui led to overfishing, he said.

We didn't have an eye on who was going on the reef and unfortunately I would say within three weeks after the reopening ... the whole island came. We had 30 boats fishing, he said. It was a total disaster.

Tehei said despite the setbacks, they're still continuing to promote and monitor different ways to improve their rahui practices, including working with the local government to help create a fishing registration system that would catalog how much each fisher catches.

But, Tehei said, rahui have helped change the mentality some Tahitians have towards taking care of the ocean and its ecosystems.

For Tahitian people, the ocean is everything, he said. People want to keep it healthy and prosperous.

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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.

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For more coverage of the 2024 Olympics, visit https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games.
The Sweet Home City Council has named the town's chief of police as its interim city manager.

Last month, City Manager Kelcey Young announced she was resigning as a result of bullying and a need for more accessible health services.

A Place to Sleep, episode 4: Sweet Home In Sweet Home, you'll find the region's only designated sleeping place for folks actively self-medicating with alcohol and narcotics.

She described the bullying as including anonymous phone calls, some with death threats.

Bullying

She told the New Era last month that some interactions with the public and a city councilor made my time very challenging and made it so I couldnt be as successful or productive. She did not name the councilor.

Tuesday, Aug. 6, was Young's last council meeting before leaving Sweet Home to take a similar position in Pinole, California. During business from the public, Councilor Dave Trask said the treatment she endured was horrible.

She did not deserve what she got from this council, period, he said.

Trask said he and Young didnt always agree but that she did a great job. Neither he nor Young identified the council member who had caused difficulties for her.

As an aside, Trask added that he would not be running for reelection when his term ends at the end of this year.

Praise

Also Tuesday, several community members took the opportunity to praise Young.

With your first encounter with the public here in Sweet Home, you talked about all the positives you saw in us," Diane Gerson said. You had answers to the skeptics about how to move us forward, and you delivered millions of dollars in grants (that) have come our way through your efforts to develop parks, enhance the downtown and complete the wastewater plant.

Young worked hard to address homelessness in Sweet Home and was a great partner to work with, Community Services Consortium Executive Director Pegge McGuire said.

You could figure out how to bring everybody around the table. And we all wanted to come around the table and help you with this to solve the problem, McGuire said.

Young thanked those who had praised her and said that the her accomplishments wouldnt have been possible without teamwork.

It was not my intention to leave Sweet Home. I was hoping to stay for multiple more years. And because of that, I completely recognize that it is creating some instability for the city of Sweet Home, and particularly our staff and our team," she said.

Replacements

Young recommended appointing Sweet Home Chief of Police Jason Ogden to take up the role as interim city manager while the search for a permanent replacement is ongoing.

She even recommended him for the position long term, she said.

Ogden has been with the city for 27 years and is a quick learner, she said.

He leads with a compassion and humility that is truly exceptional, and he's just a remarkable person, and I think that Sweet Home would be in very, very good hands while the next decision is made, she said.

Young also recommended appointing Cecily Pretty as assistant city manager. Pretty currently serves as Administrative Services director.

Cecily has many years in government. She is absolutely brilliant. She understands the way that government works on all of the technical pieces, and she is the type of assistant city manager that can handle a great deal of operations, and would be a perfect partnership to the city manager who is looking at sort of the larger ideas and working directly with council, she said.

Some council members, however, were concerned about Pretty's interim position becoming long-term.

In the end, councilors passed a motion to designate Odgen as interim city manager and Pretty as interim assistant city manager. Both votes passed with six yes votes. Councilor Angelita Sanchez was absent.

I wanted to thank the council for putting their trust in our temporary position," Ogden," said. "Cecily and I are excited to grab onto that baton and continue running forward with that.

"Kelsey has done a phenomenal job. She has a lot of energy, and we have some big shoes to fill, but we're excited about it, even if it is temporary.

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Takeaways from an emotional hearing into the death of guard Corey Proulx at Lincoln Hills

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.

MERRILL - In a hearing that stretched on for nearly eight hours, the family and colleagues of a man killed while working at an embattled northern Wisconsin prison pleaded with lawmakers to create change inside the facility.

Family of Corey Proulx gave testimony that was at times emotional, sharing how the guard who was killed on duty in June by a teen incarcerated there. Coworkers also pleaded with lawmakers and the Department of Corrections to create safer working conditions inside the Lincoln Hills School for Boys and the adjoining Copper Lake School for Girls.

Here are highlights from testimony before the state Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety conducted Tuesday at the Merrill High School auditorium, down the road from the Lincoln Hills complex in the Lincoln County community of Irma.

Hearing focused on the death of guard Corey Proulx

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.

Proulx, 49, died from injuries sustained during an assault by a 16-year-old boy housed at Lincoln Hills School for Boys.

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 floor and hit his head on concrete. Another boy was also charged in relation to the incident, for supplying the conditioner in a small cup that was thrown into the face of the female guard to incapacitate her.

According to those at the hearing, Proulx and the women were partners assigned to watch each other's backs at the facility.

Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake Schools have faced issues for years

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. Several different instances of injuries to youth incarcerated at the facility led to a 2017 lawsuit, which led to the appointment of a court-ordered monitor to oversee conditions.

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 met all of the outlined requirements.

Department of Corrections leaders called the death a tragedy

Department of Corrections Secretary-designee Jared Hoy wears a memorial to Corey Proulx 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 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

Before family and coworkers spoke, the secretary-designee of the DOC, Jared Hoy, along with several other leaders were grilled by lawmakers.

Hoy said he has visited Lincoln Hills often in the aftermath, and is working to improve the conditions for workers who now say they are scared to go to work for fear of being injured or killed by the youth housed there.

"Not every conversation has been easy, but each has been important," he said. "I'm going to continue to make sure staff have the support they need to feel heard and to see their feedback reflected in the operations of the facility."

One topic repeatedly raised during the testimony of workers and Proulx's family was OC spray, or pepper spray. Employees at Lincoln Hills say they would feel safer with access to pepper spray, in order to break up fights or protect themselves or even other students.

Under the terms of a consent decree, pepper spray was banned from the facility in 2017, along with excessive time in solitary confinement and the excessive use of mechanical restraints, due to overuse on the youth.

"I don't think there's one solution, and I think we heard that today," Hoy said in an interview after the hearing. "I don't think pepper spray is a magic bullet to bring back and have that fix our issues."

Family members share stories of a beloved uncle, a man who loved his job

Sarah Proulx, Corey Proulx's sister-in-law, said Corey's death could have been avoided.

"Our family has been suffering through unimaginable, unimaginable tragedy due to the loss of youth counselor Corey through a tragedy that we feel could have been prevented," she said, sitting alongside her husband, Tristan Proulx.

Sarah said the DOC could provide more counseling and mental health oversight for the youth at the facility, could provide guards with more personal protective equipment to keep them safe, and ensure the ratio of guards to inmates is not skewed so that inmates have the upper hand.

"(Corey) would always say that if his work at Lincoln Hills School could bring about a positive change in just one juvenile inmate, then his job would be worth it. And it was with that mentality that he lost his life," she said.

"He was powerless, defenseless because of decisions that were made. But now you have a chance to ensure that no other family endures the pure agony that our family is enduring. You have a chance to help change the course. There will never be a way to make this right. But you can help our family get justice."

Elizabeth Leander, a niece of Corey Proulx, told the committee "you may not realize is the impact that Corey Proulx had on those around him."

"He was a man who didn't have a mean bone in his body. A man who helped my disabled brother Justin out when he couldn't get a job elsewhere. A man who showed up no matter the circumstance, a man that fixed a car because he cared for your safety," Leander said.

She called for more personal protective gear for guards at Lincoln Hills, so that no one else endures what her uncle had to.

"When Corey arrived at the hospital they could not identify him. His wounds were so severe that he was a John Doe. When his fiancee arrived, she had to she had to identify him by the tattoos on his arms," Leander said.

"This is crucial for you to understand and realize to the extent of trauma that Corey had to undergo, and second, so you can better understand just what this inmate was capable of doing."

Lawmakers shift blame to Evers; partisan arguments continue

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

Sen. Mary Felzkowski, R-Tomahawk, highlighted that Hurd was on the transfer list to be moved to the Mendota Juvenile Treatment Center, where he could have received the mental health treatment guards had recommended for him. She said she's been told there were multiple red flags regarding Hurd's behavior in the days leading up to Proulx's death, a statement that earned noises of agreement and head nods from people in the crowd.

"Corey should be in this audience today," Felzkowski said. "So I hope that this investigation at Lincoln Hills is forthright and not tampered with."

Meanwhile, other lawmakers seemed to squabble about the role that Democrats and Republicans played in the Lincoln Hills tragedy.

Sen. LaTonya Johnson, D-Milwaukee, questioned whether Lincoln Hills would still be open if the Legislature's Joint Finance Committee had approved the requests made years ago by the DOC for the funding to build new youth facilities in Milwaukee and Dane counties.

"Not only did we deny those funds, we cost taxpayers an additional 30 plus million dollars because we denied those fund in 2019," she said, noting the rising costs for building the new facilities as years passed. "Yes, Joint Finance is responsible."

But Felzkowski disagreed, and said the DOC plans weren't complete, which is why the money wasn't released at the time.

"That's not honest," she said to Johnson.

Was any action taken at the hearing?

No.

Tuesday's hearing was only to allow a select number of speakers to share their thoughts and experiences with the members of the committee.

What comes next?

Lawmakers will be able to use the information they gleaned from the hearing to inform their next decisions.

Felzkowski said she is planning to write a letter to the judge that signed the consent decree and ask that guards at Lincoln Hills be allowed to carry pepper spray to protect themselves once more.

"We are going to draft a new letter, based on the circumstances and a lot of things we heard through today," she said. "My hope, although I don't have much of it, is that the governor's office would also revisit the consent decree based on a lot of things that were said today."

Laura Schulte can be reached at leschulte@jrn.com and on Twitter at @SchulteLaura.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Takeaways from emotional hearing on Lincoln Hills youth prison
Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin maintains a lead over Republican challenger Eric Hovde, according to a new Marquette University Law School poll of Wisconsin voters released Wednesday.

Baldwin led Hovde among registered voters 53% to 46%, and among likely voters 52% to 47%. That represents a slight boost for Baldwin since the last Marquette poll conducted in June, which had Baldwin at 52% and Hovde at 47% among both registered and likely voters.

The results include voters who were initially undecided and were asked who they would vote for if they had to choose. Initially, 14% of registered voters were undecided between Baldwin and Hovde.

"Baldwin has a larger, eight-point lead of those that give an answer, but 14% undecided is still fairly substantial," poll director Charles Franklin said.

"The Senate race really has been lost in the turmoil at the presidential level. Once we get through the primary and get through the (Democratic National Convention), I think we'll see the Senate race fully engaged ... It will take hold soon, and people will tune in more," he said.

The new poll surveyed 877 registered voters, between July 24 and Aug. 1. The margin of error was plus or minus 4.6 percentage points. There were 801 likely voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 4.8 points. Starting next month, the poll will emphasize likely voters as the November election draws closer, Franklin said.

Baldwin is running for a third term in the U.S. Senate, and Madison businessman Eric Hovde is the leading Republican candidate in the race. As of mid-July, Hovde raised a total of $16.3 million, $13 million of which he self-funded. Baldwin has raised a total of $34.1 million this cycle.

Baldwin is viewed favorably by 44% of voters, compared to 45% in June and 47% in April. She is also viewed unfavorably by 44%. About 12% of voters had no opinion of her, compared to 11% in the June and April polls.

Hovde is viewed favorably by 24%, compared to 23% in June and 19% in April. He is viewed unfavorably by 37%. The percentage of voters with no opinion of him has gone down to 38% from 44% in June and 56% in April.

Baldwin was ahead in other polls that showed President Joe Biden trailing while he was still in the race. Baldwin had distanced herself from Biden, including not appearing with him during recent visits to Wisconsin. While Democrats showed low enthusiasm for voting in the June poll, that gap has narrowed, Franklin said.

"This was a real warning sign for Democrats, that low enthusiasm could result in lower turnout. That could affect the Senate race. It could affect the legislative races around the state. Now we're seeing nearly equal levels of enthusiasm within Republicans and Democrats," he said.

The Marquette poll released Wednesday is the first version that updates the presidential matchup to former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Baldwin spoke at Harris' first rally in West Allis and is expected to give remarks at her rally in Eau Claire Wednesday afternoon.

Baldwin and Hovde will meet for a debate on Oct. 18, hosted by WMTV-TV in Madison. The debate will be televised and broadcasted on radio across the state. Hovde has pushed Baldwin to agree to more debates, including in Milwaukee and Green Bay.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Tammy Baldwin maintains lead over Eric Hovde in new Wisconsin voters
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  The Tampa Bay Times is under deadline to meet savings goals, or face laying off 60 members of its staff  or one fifth of the workforce.

Despite its digital operation growing, the print side has suffered from declining advertising revenue and other forces impacting the industry. As a result, the newspaper determined it must cut payroll costs by 20%, Times staff wrote in an article Tuesday announcing the layoffs.

Chairman and CEO Conan Gallaty told the Times approximately 100 journalists and 170 other workers that they have until August 16 to decide on a buyout package, which includes four extra weeks of severance pay for those who choose to leave ahead of the layoffs. The severance maxes out at 12 weeks.

Gallaty told Poynter Institute  which owns the Times  that print still makes up the majority of its revenue. To cut costs, the newspaper shut down its St. Petersburg facility and switched to printing only on Wednesdays and Sundays in 2020. The Times moved out of its downtown Tampa office in February in an effort to downsize.

The Times bought out and shut down its competitor, the Tampa Tribune, in 2016. The Tribune and WFLA-TV operated out of the same building in downtown Tampa before the buyout.

The Tribune purchase and the costs of combining the two newspapers were high, according to Poynter, and advertising revenue declined in the years that followed. The nonprofit reported that it is unaffected by the reverses in the Times revenue and neither party supports the other with a transfer of funds.

The Tampa Bay Times, previously named the St. Petersburg Times, recently marked its 140th anniversary in operation. Its newsroom has been the recipient of 14 Pulitzer Prizes.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
In an effort to paint Vice President Kamala Harriss running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, as a far-left liberal, the Trump campaign has chosen the nickname Tampon Tim after a bill Walz signed last year.

The law, which went into effect in January, requires schools throughout Minnesota to provide menstrual products  like sanitary pads and tampons  to all menstruating students in restrooms regularly used by students in grades 4 to 12.

But the nickname may not have pulled off what Trump supporters intended.

What is the tampon bill?

Minnesota state Rep. Sandra Feist, who authored the bill, told Yahoo News the goal of the bill was to support student health and ensure that any student doesnt have to miss school because they cant afford menstrual products.

The Wall Street Journal reported in July that the cost of pads and tampons has increased faster in the last few years than the price of food. The average cost of a pack of pads and a box of tampons is $6.50 and $8.29 respectively.

The bill was brought to be by students saying that this was something really important to them and it was something that was really impacting their ability to get an education, Feist said. That was the goal of the bill.

In January 2023, a 16-year-old student told lawmakers at the Minnesota capital, We cannot learn while we are leaking.  This is a fear everyone knows, and it is happening in our schools all of the time.

Another 15-year-old emphasized how important it was to remain inclusive, fighting against efforts by Republican lawmakers to amend the bill to be exclusively for female and gender-neutral restrooms.

It will make it more comfortable for everyone, they said. People can use whatever restroom they want without being worried.

Minnesota is not the only state with a bill like this

There are a number of states that have already done something similar, Feist said. Period poverty is something that impacts all students who menstruate.

According to the Alliance for Period Supplies, Minnesota is one of 28 states that are either committed by law or budgeting (for some, both) to provide menstrual products in schools. It includes states with Republican representatives like Georgia, Ohio and Utah.

I would love to see other states follow suit, Feist added.

Trump campaign tries to paint Walzs bill as too weird and too liberal

Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told Fox News on Tuesday that the bill is a threat to womens health and encourages gender-transition surgeries for young minors.

Those are the radical policies Tim Walz supports, she continued. He actually signed a bill to do that.

This seems to be the consensus from Trump supporters  that providing easy access to sanitary products will encourage young boys to want to transition. Online trolls like Chaya Raichik, who runs the Libs of TikTok account, and X user @catturd2, got #tampontim trending on X with their posts.

What could be weirder than signing a bill requiring schools to stock tampons in boys bathrooms? the Make America Great Again account wrote on X. Or weirder than signing legislation allowing minors to receive sex change operations?

In another post, the Trump super-PAC said, Walz is too weird and too liberal.

I question the logic, Feist told Yahoo News. There are a lot of aisles with tampons in many stores and it doesnt seem thats had an impact on young people considering whether they want to transition. So that doesnt make sense to me.

How a Trump nickname turned into a positive meme

Despite the Trump campaign using this nickname to mock Walz, its instead more widely publicized Walzs support for reproductive health and provided another example of his advocacy for students.

Soon, "#tampontim" became a term of endearment and support, inspiring memes from supporters, including prominent names like Hillary Clinton.

How nice of the Trump camp to help publicize Gov. Tim Walz's compassionate and common-sense policy of providing free menstrual products to students in Minnesota public schools! Clinton tweeted in response to Raichiks meme. Let's do this everywhere.

How nice of the Trump camp to help publicize Gov. Tim Walz's compassionate and common-sense policy of providing free menstrual products to students in Minnesota public schools! Let's do this everywhere. pic.twitter.com/hk6v8cs8p4  Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 7, 2024

Does MAGA not understand #TamponTim isn't an insult? another X user wrote. When did a Man making sure young girls aren't bleeding through their clothes at school become a problem?

Does MAGA not understand #TamponTim isn't an insult? When did a Man making sure young girls aren't bleeding through their clothes at school become a problem? You meanhe doesn't want them embarrassed & able to focus in class?



You clowns put them on your ears a few weeks ago. pic.twitter.com/3Tgx6ammgc  Mrs G (@MrsEricaGarza) August 6, 2024

Period poverty is a real thing, one person posted. As a former teacher, Walz understands how his impacts educational outcomes, just like he knows how hunger impacts learning. This makes me an even bigger fan of Tampon Tim.

Period poverty is a real thing - students miss school because of lack of access to menstrual products. As a former teacher, Walz understands how his impacts educational outcomes, just like he knows how hunger impacts learning. This makes me an even bigger fan of Tampon Tim.  Bee Nguyen  (@BeeForGeorgia) August 6, 2024

In response to a tweet by a Republican Party X account, someone said, I keep accidentally liking all of the right-wing posts about Walz because everything they post about him makes me like him more.

I keep accidentally liking all of the right-wing posts about Walz because everything they post about him makes me like him more https://t.co/4RutRpHVrN  Jules Suzdaltsev (@jules_su) August 6, 2024

I didnt expect this, Feist said. I imagine that Governor Walz wasnt expecting this. This wasnt on his bingo card. Ive been really gratified by all the support and interest in this legislation.
Taylor Swifts Eras Tour concerts in Vienna have been canceled after Austrian law enforcement officers arrested two people suspected of planning a major attack on one of the performances.

Federal and local officers worked to arrest the two men on Wednesday. Police said one of the men, 19, had pledged allegiance to ISIS last month. The teen was arrested in Ternitz, an hour south of the capital, on Wednesday morning while the other man was taken into custody in Vienna hours later.

Both suspects had become radicalized on the internet and had specific plans to carry out an attack, officials said. The 19-year-old Austrian citizen was arrested with chemicals found by a bomb squad, and investigators are now determining if they could have been used to make an explosive.

The performances, which were originally scheduled for Thursday, Friday and Saturday night at Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna, are now canceled. This move comes after officials initially said the concerts were set to move forward with heightened security.

Taylor Swift, pictured performing in Amsterdam on July 5, will move forward with her Vienna, Austria concerts this week, police said (Getty Images for TAS Rights Mana)

We have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety, management company Barracuda Music said in a statement. All tickets will be automatically refunded.

The A-lister has not commented on the potential attack.

The Independent has contacted Swifts representative for comment.

People gather at a vigil to mourn the three children killed in a stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, UK (Getty Images)

The arrests come just days after a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed childrens dance class in Southport, England. The attacker killed three children: six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar. Five other kids and two adults were also seriously injured in the July 29 attack.

Swift paid tribute to the children the next day.

The horror of yesterdays attack is washing over me continuously and Im just completely in shock, she said in a statement. The loss of life and innocence and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families and first responders.

These were just little kids at a dance class, she continued. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.
Gregor Fischer/TAS24/Getty Images

Just a week after multiple young children died in a mass stabbing in Britain outside a Taylor Swiftthemed dance workshop, three dates of the Eras Tour have been canceled due to a threat of terrorism.

Swift was scheduled to perform for three nightsAugust 8, 9, and 10in Vienna, Austria, before a plot to attack the concert venue was discovered on August 6. The investigation included the evacuation of part of a Vienna neighborhood and the discovery of chemical substances, which are currently being tested. Per People, authorities have arrested two young men in connection to the plot who were radicalized online and allegedly pledged their allegiance to the terrorist group ISIS, though its unclear if there is any actual connection between the plotters and the group. The plans for an attack at the concert venue were detailed, per reports, though authorities havent yet notified the public of just what they were.

Initially, there were plans to continue with the shows, with increased security at the venue, but the local event organizers quickly changed course and issued a statement canceling all three concerts. Ticket holders will receive full refunds.

At the time of this writing, Taylor Swift herself had not commented, though the account @TaylorNation (basically the official fan news source) had shared the announcement. Swifts website also notes that ticket holders for the Vienna shows will receive refunds.

Online, Swifties collectively grieved the cancelation of the shows and the fact that such evil could disrupt a potentially life-affirming event but generally agreed that safety comes first.

Swift is still set to play five shows in London later this month before returning to North America for the final leg of the tour, which wraps at the end of the year.

Originally Appeared on Glamour
The investigation involved an hours-long operation that evacuated nearly half the town, per reports

Thomas Niedermueller/TAS24/Getty Taylor Swift

Authorities in Austria say they have arrested two men in connection with an alleged terror plot involving upcoming Taylor Swift concerts.

Authorities carried out an investigation in a neighborhood in Ternitz, in the Lower Austria region, evacuating residents and cordoning off roads, reportedly in connection with threats at Swift concerts in Vienna, Kronen Zeitung (known commonly as Krone) reported on Wednesday, citing unnamed security officials.



One of the detained individuals is a 19-year-old man who has allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS, Franz Ruf, Austrias interior ministrys security director, said at a press briefing on Wednesday, Aug. 6, per Austrian outlet Heute, Krone and NBC Boston.

Another man was arrested in Vienna, authorities said, and that suspect had also pledged allegiance to the terror group, per the outlets. No further information about him was available.

The investigation involved an hours-long operation in Ternitz where the 19-year-old lives with his family, per Krone. Following his arrest, police searched his home and evacuated almost half the town.

During the search, police found chemical substances, that are being tested, Ruf said at the press conference, per Heute and Krone. Photos published by Krone show personnel in protective gear carrying boxes and items at the scene.

Local police said they found detailed plans of the alleged attacks, authorities said, per NBC.

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According to investigators, the two suspects had become radicalized online, per the outlets. It wasn't immediately clear what charges they are facing.

Authorities have ramped up security for Swift's concerts, including increasing surveillance and having more security personnel, both in uniform and plainclothes, Austrian police told PEOPLE in a statement. They did not comment on whether this was linked to the arrests in Ternitz.

Swift is in Vienna for her Eras Tour from Aug. 8 to Aug. 10, with many of her fans traveling from other countries to attend the concert, per Krone.

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Read the original article on People.
A fan arrives to buy souvenirs outside the Ernst Happel Stadium before Taylor Swift's concert. Eva Manhart/APA/dpa

Taylor Swift's three performances in Vienna have been cancelled, organizers said late Wednesday, after two suspects were arrested for allegedly plotting terrorist attacks.

The decision to scrap the US pop icon's shows this coming Thursday, Friday and Saturday was announced by Barracuda Music in a message on Instagram.

"With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone's safety," Barracuda Music wrote.

Hours earlier Austrian law enforcement announced that two individuals had been taken into custody on suspicion they were planning attacks in the Vienna area, including on Swift's shows.

Franz Ruf, director general for public security at the Austrian Interior Ministry, said chemical substances were seized from a 19-year-old Austrian.

The police, concerned about possible explosives, had pre-emptively evacuated houses and part of a nursing home.

The young man had become radicalized on the internet and reportedly pledged allegiance to the leadership of the terrorist organization Islamic State a few weeks ago, said Ruf.

Ruf said that police had "established" that the 19-year-old had focused his attention on the Swift shows.

According to police, he was arrested Wednesday morning in the town of Ternitz, 75 kilometres south-west of Vienna.

A second person was arrested in the afternoon in Vienna.

The police provided no further details, including the relationship between the two or whether they were searching for accomplices.

"Terrorists want to scare us and drive us apart," Austrian Vice Chancellor Werner Kogler wrote on X. "We will not allow our way of life to be destroyed."

Some 65,000 people were expected to attend each of the three concerts at the sold-out Ernst Happel Stadium, as well as around 20,000 fans who would have travelled to the arena without tickets to listen to their idol's music from afar, said Vienna Provincial Police Chief Gerhard Purstl.

"The findings of the investigation give cause for increased police surveillance," he said a few hours before the concerts were ultimately cancelled by the organizer.

The police could not on their own cancel Swift's shows, he had said in response to a question from a journalist.

But Purstl said that special anti-terrorist forces, including plainclothes officers and those with special training and service dogs, would be able to secure the concerts. They had also planned surveillance of the airspace.

A fan of the US singer Taylor Swift with a t-shirt reading the "Taylor Swift The Eras Tour" is seen at the Vienna Prater. Eva Manhart/APA/dpa
Taylor Swift - Credit: Thomas Niedermueller/TAS24/Getty Images

Three scheduled shows on Taylor Swifts Eras tour in Vienna, Austria, have been canceled following the arrests on Wednesday of two men who, authorities say, were planning to execute terror attacks at multiple locations in the city.

With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety, the official ticketing agency shared in a statement. All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days.

More from Rolling Stone

Ticket exchange and resale company StubHub said in a statement, We are aware of the news regarding the upcoming cancelled Taylor Swift shows in Austria. All StubHub ticket holders will be notified via email, immediately. We will immediately provide StubHub ticket buyers with a 120% voucher toward another purchase, in line with our event cancellation policy and our FanProtect Guarantee. Buyers who prefer a 100 percent cash refund can make the request directly in their StubHub wallet.

The concerts were scheduled from Aug. 8 through 10. Initially, it was reported that the shows would continue as planned with increased security. Police officials had stated that the concrete danger has been minimized, according to NBC News. Details are still emerging regarding the threat, which was addressed broadly in a news conference from Vienna State Police Director Franz Ruf and Police Chief Gerhard Purstl.

Chemical substances were discovered after authorities took into custody a 19-year-old who allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS after being radicalized online. The other man who was arrested is also said to have an allegiance to the terrorist group. According to Ruf, the substances retrieved from the 19-year-old are currently being evaluated, likely to determine whether they were meant to be used for the purposes of constructing a bomb.

One man was arrested in Vienna, while the 19-year-old  considered to be the main suspect  was detained in a town south of the capital called Ternitz. No additional details regarding the matter have been shared from officials.

Ernst Happel Stadium holds a capacity of more than 50,000 attendees. All three shows Swift was set to play this week are sold out. She currently has a five-date run scheduled at Wembley Stadium in London beginning next week, before she returns to North America in November and December for the final leg of the Eras tour.

This article was updated to reflect Swifts shows were subsequently canceled following the foiled terrorist attempt, and to include her London dates and a statement from StubHub.

Best of Rolling Stone
By Alexandra Schwarz-Goerlich and Riham Alkousaa

BERLIN (Reuters) -Taylor Swift's three concerts in Vienna this week were cancelled after the government confirmed a planned attack at the stadium, the organizer announced late on Wednesday, and Austria's Chancellor Karl Nehammer said "a tragedy was prevented".

"Thanks to the intensive cooperation of our police and the newly established DSN with foreign services, the threat was identified early on, combated and a tragedy prevented," Nehammer said in a post on social media platform X. DSN is Austria's Directorate for Security and Intelligence.

"With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety," Barracuda.music said in a post on Instagram, adding all tickets would be automatically refunded.

Austrian police on Wednesday detained two people suspected of plotting attacks on concerts, Franz Ruf, director general for public security, said at a news conference on Wednesday evening.

"During our investigations, we identified preparatory actions and noted that the 19 year-old suspect had a particular focus on the Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna," Ruf said, adding that the suspect, an Austrian citizen, had pledged allegiance to Islamic state. Another suspect was later arrested in Vienna.

Police searched the residence of one of the suspects in Ternitz, Lower Austria, and were analysing items from the home. Local media, citing police sources, said three suspects were still on the run.

Earlier on Wednesday before the cancellation announcement, police had said the events would take place but with increased entry checks and personal searches, with deployment of special units including anti-terror and bomb disposal teams, advising the public to arrive early at the events.

Three Taylor Swift concerts were scheduled to take place In Vienna from Thursday to Saturday. Police had been expecting around 65,000 attendees at each show, as well as up to 15,000 people outside the stadium without tickets, which fed security concerns.

The shows were to be part of the record-breaking Eras Tour by the American singer-songwriter which started on March 17, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona, U.S., and is set to conclude on Dec. 8, 2024, in Vancouver, Canada.

Swift, 34, has not yet commented on the cancellations on her official Instagram account which has 283 million followers.

The singer has been taking Europe by storm, prompting some pundits to envisage an economic windfall as fans flock to dozens of sold-out shows from Dublin to Warsaw and beyond.

After Vienna, Swift was set to sing in London where six concerts are scheduled at Wembley Stadium, starting on Aug. 15.

(Reporting by Alexnadera Schwarz-Goerlich and Riham Alkousaa; editing by Jonathan Oatis and David Gregorio)
Authorities in Austria confirmed that two men were arrested in connection with an alleged terror plot involving Swift's Vienna concerts

Kevin Winter/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management Taylor Swift performs onstage for the opening night of The Eras Tour at State Farm Stadium on March 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona

Taylor Swift's Eras Tour shows in Austria this week have been canceled following an alleged terror plot.

On Wednesday, Aug. 7, authorities confirmed that two men were arrested in connection to a planned attack on the concerts that were set to take place at the Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna from Aug. 8 to 10. The shows have now been canceled, according to a promoter post re-shared on the official Taylor Nation account's Instagram Stories.

"With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety," a message originally shared on the Barracuda Music page reads, noting that all tickets purchased by fans "will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days."

In a press conference earlier Wednesday, Vienna's head of police Gerhard Purstl said immediate danger had been "minimized" but that an "abstract danger" remained in the city, per the BBC. Hence, the decision was made to cancel Swift's Vienna shows.

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Taylor Swift attends the "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" Concert Movie World Premiere in Los Angeles in October 2023

According to unnamed security officials reported by Kronen Zeitung (known commonly as Krone), authorities carried out an investigation in a neighborhood in Ternitz, Austria, on Wednesday related to threats at Swift's Vienna concerts.

Per a press briefing held on Wednesday by Franz Ruf  Austrias interior ministrys security director  a 19-year-old man who allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS was detained in connection to the alleged plot, multiple outlets reported.



Authorities say another man who pledged allegiance to the terror group was also arrested in Vienna following an investigation into an hours-long operation in Ternitz.

Related: Taylor Swift Concerts in Austria Were Allegedly Targeted in Terror Plot Involving 'Chemical Substances,' 2 Arrested

According to the current status of the investigation, the two suspects became radicalized via the internet," Ruf said, per the BBC. According to NBC News, local police said they found detailed plans of the alleged terror attacks.

Austrian police told PEOPLE in a statement that authorities had ramped up security for Swift's concerts this week, including increasing surveillance and adding more security personnel. They did not comment on whether the decision was linked to the arrests made in Ternitz.

Swift's next set of Eras Tour concerts are still scheduled in London from Aug. 15-20.

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Read the original article on People.
Taylor Swift Cancels Her Eras Tour Dates In Austria Following Government Confirmation Of A Planned Terrorist Attack

Taylor Swift  currently on the European leg of her Eras Tour  was scheduled to play three nights at Ernst-Happel-Stadion in Vienna, Austria, kicking off tomorrow, August 8th.

Buda Mendes / Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

However, this morning news broke that two men were arrested in connection to a planned terrorist attack at Taylor's upcoming shows.

Buda Mendes / Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

In a news conference, Vienna State Police Director Franz Ruf and Police Chief Gerhard Purstl revealed that Vienna State Police raided the home of one of the men, a 19-year-old from Ternitz who allegedly "pledged his allegiance to ISIS." According to the police, the bomb squad found chemical substances in his home, and investigators are actively determining if said substances could have been used to build a bomb.

The two men had been radicalized online and allegedly had a specific plan to carry out the attacks.

Pictured: Ernst-Happel-Stadion, with a capacity of 50,865. Clive Mason / Getty Images

Initially, police confirmed that there were no plans to cancel the shows and that Taylor's performance would go on with increased security measures.

Jeff Kravitz / Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

However, Taylor Nation  Taylor Swift's official fan page  shared a post to their Instagram story confirming that the three Eras Tour dates in Vienna have been canceled "for everyone's safety" and that tickets would automatically be refunded.

Aside from the Instagram story, neither Taylor nor her team have commented on the situation.
Three Taylor Swift concerts in Austria were canceled by organizers on Wednesday, following the arrest of two people who allegedly plotted a terrorist attack in Vienna, authorities said. Swift was scheduled to perform at the Ernst Happel Stadium on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in her next stops on the Eras Tour.

In a statement posted on Instagram, concert organizers Barracuda Music informed fans that the shows were being canceled, saying government officials had confirmed the threat of a planned attack.

With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety, Barracuda Music wrote in the statement.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-YXeSjMG4q

A similar statement was posted on the ticketing website, which shares that ticket holders will be automatically refunded within 10 business days.

On Thursday, Austrian authorities said that one of the two suspects who was arrested confessed to planning the attack, the Associated Press reports. He wanted to carry out an attack in the area outside the stadium, killing as many people as possible using the knives or even using the explosive devices he had made, said Omar Haijawi-Pirchner, the head of the Directorate of State Security and Intelligence.

The man, who lived with his parents in Ternitz, located south of Vienna, is said to have pledged an oath of allegiance to ISIS, Vienna State Police Director Franz Ruf told reporters during a press conference on Wednesday.

The AP reports that the man had been planning the attack since July and had planned to use knives of homemade explosives. In a raid of his home in Ternitz, police found chemical substances and technical devices that Ruf said signaled "concrete preparatory acts." Haijawi-Pirchner said Thursday that he was "clearly radicalized in the direction of the Islamic State and thinks it is right to kill infidels."

Authorities arrested a second person in Vienna and said they found Islamic State group and al-Qaida material" in his home. The second suspect, a 17-year-old Austrian, worked for a company providing services at the venue for the concerts and was arrested near the stadium by police. He has not yet spoken about the allegations against him to the authorities, according to the AP. No one else has been arrested, but police questioned a 15-year-old boy who contacted both of the suspects.

In a post on X, the Chancellor of the Republic of Austria, Karl Nehammer, called the concert cancellation a "bitter disappointment" for fans in Austria. He added that the planned attack was "very serious" and that because of cooperation between the police and government officials, a tragedy was prevented.

Swift is still set to perform for five nights at Wembley Stadium in London, from Aug. 15-20, following the cancellations in Vienna. Variety reports that the singers team and the concert promoter are working together to enhance security measures. Clearly, the police will be looking at all the intelligence and making decisions, they risk assess every event that happens in this country, and thats something for the police, Diana Johnson, the UKs policing minister, said in a statement on LBC Radio, referring to the security measures being taken ahead of Swifts London dates.

A man was arrested last week in Kansas City after making a terroristic threat at a Morgan Wallen concert who seemed to have made threatening comments directed at Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes who were at the concert and seen hanging out with Wallen. The concert was delayed for 45 minutes.

Swift has not yet made a public statement about the terrorist threat at her concerts or the cancellation of her shows.

Write to Moises Mendez II at moises.mendez@time.com.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  A 17-year-old has been charged after Rochester police said he was recklessly driving a stolen car with a group of other teenagers, before crashing back in May.

That crash on May third, left Jazzmeir Mouzon-Henton, 14, seriously injured. He died a few days later in the hospital on May fifth.

According to Rochester police, the group was in the car driven by Anthony Barnes Jr. Police said, as he was speeding down Bloss street, the other teens, whos ages ranged from 11 to 15, were hanging out of the windows. The driver eventually lost control, flipping the car before coming to a stop on someones yard.

The car they were in was reported stolen from a car lot on May third, according to police.

Barnes Jr. has been charged with Manslaughter in the second-degree, Leaving the Scene of a Fatal Accident, and Criminal Possession of Stolen property in the third-degree.

He was already in custody at the time he was officially charged. Police said this was because he violated Parole. Police were unable to elaborate on his Parole status. He was taken to jail following his arraignment.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Surry, NH- A teen passenger was seriously hurt in a single-car crash in Surry on Monday afternoon and New Hampshire State Police are investigating the crash.

Police say the crash happened on Pond Road in Surry around 4 p.m. A 2011 Nissan Altima had gone off the road, and the passenger was stuck inside the car.

Emergency responders from the Surry Fire Department, and Keene Fire Department were able to get the passenger out of the car. They were brought to Cheshire Medical Center, but the severity of the injuries required them to be flown by medical helicopter to a trauma center.

Police say the cars driver, also a teen, was not hurt in the crash and was cited for speeding. The crash is under investigation, and police are asking anyone with more information to contact Trooper James Lamoureaux at James.D.Lamoureux@DOS.NH.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 ABC22 & FOX44.
Telehealth abortion still on the rise, especially in states with shield laws, report shows

The use of telehealth for abortions has continued to grow in the U.S., according to the latest #WeCount report, particularly since five states passed laws legally shielding providers who work with patients living in states with bans. (File/Warodom Changyencham/Getty Images)

Both the overall number of abortions and the use of telehealth for medication abortions continue to increase in the United States, according to the latest #WeCount report released Wednesday.

Nationwide, online visits with health care providers accounted for 20% of all abortions in the first three months of 2024. And the monthly total of abortions exceeded 100,000 for the first time since the group began tracking abortion data in 2022.

#WeCount is a collaborative group of researchers who collect national abortion data from clinics every month and operate under the Society of Family Planning, an organization focused on reproductive health care research, including abortion and contraception.

Dr. Alison Norris, co-chair of the group, said the data captures 80% of abortion clinics nationwide. Using that data, the group makes estimates to account for clinics that do not provide reports.

From January to March 2024, there were about 19,700 telehealth abortions per month, according to the report.

The states with the biggest jumps in the average number of abortions per month compared with the last three months of 2023 include New York, California, Virginia, Kansas and Pennsylvania.

Kansas saw the largest increases with 59% more telehealth abortions and 29% more in-person abortions each month.

Norris said the use of telehealth has continued to grow, particularly now that five states  New York, Massachusetts, Washington, Vermont and Colorado  specifically shield those who provide telehealth abortions from legal ramifications if they work with patients from states with abortion restrictions. Fourteen states in the U.S. have a near-total ban on abortion.

There was already a move toward telehealth (during the COVID pandemic), but I think it was accelerated by the need, Norris said.

In South Carolina, abortions are illegal past six weeks of pregnancy, except in cases of rape or incest  which are allowed through the first trimester  or in cases of a fatal fetal anomaly or to save the mothers life.

At no point in a pregnancy are telehealth abortions legal in South Carolina.

The three in-state clinics that offer abortions  one each in Charleston, Columbia and Greenville  must see the patient in person before providing the two pills that end a pregnancy. The states telemedicine law specifically bars the prescribing of any abortion-inducing drug from an online health visit.

Still, its certainly possible that women are accessing providers online in states with shield laws to obtain by mail the drugs that can be prescribed through 10 weeks gestation.

Telehealth abortions provided by clinicians in states with shield laws averaged 9,200 per month from January to March 2024, according to the report. Thats an increase of about 1,200 per month from the last report that showed data from October to December 2023.

In the nine months from July 2023 to March 2024, over 65,000 people in states with near-total or six-week bans and states with telehealth restrictions have accessed medication abortion provided under shield laws.

But the vast majority of abortions still take place in person, Norris said, in part because medication abortion can only be prescribed via telehealth through 10 weeks gestation, and because some people just prefer to be seen in person.

The overall number of abortions per month has grown as well, with a high of 102,350 in January. The average over the first three months of 2024 was 98,990  the highest monthly number during the last quarter of 2023 was 92,640.

Norris said the data shows the number of abortions began to rise nationally in 2017, and while its hard to pinpoint the cause, there are new factors that could be contributing.

Some people who needed an abortion before the Dobbs decision in 2022 could get them once states passed legislation to remove barriers. And for those who faced financial issues obtaining an abortion, she said, there is more awareness of abortion funds and other sources of support.

Theres a lot more information in the ecosystem, theres better resources on the internet, and theres potentially been a destigmatization of abortion, given how much its in the media and being talked about by politicians, Norris said.

Although she views it as a positive that many people who live in states with near-total bans or six-week bans are able to access abortion via telehealth, she said its still an unfair situation.

Those bans and those restrictions are not evidence-based in terms of public health science, and the fact that thousands and thousands of people dont have access to ordinary and safe health care thats time-sensitive just because of the state where they live, it is an injustice that I hope people keep their eyes on, Norris said. Its important that people maintain the will to keep advocating for access for all people in the U.S., no matter where they live.

SC Daily Gazette Editor Seanna Adcox contributed to this report.
Gov. Bill Lee, accompanied by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, left, at his Tuesday press conference at which he announced a plan to let parents use public funds for private schools. (Photo: John Partipilo)

Gov. Bill Lee, accompanied by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, left, at a press conference at which he announced a plan to let parents use public funds for private schools. (Photo: John Partipilo)

Despite gubernatorial backing and massive independent spending, support for private-school vouchers failed to produce a clear mandate in last weeks Republican primary.

Its an outcome that could come back to haunt Gov. Bill Lee if hes banking on the shift of students to private schools to cement his political legacy.

In Williamson Countys District 65 state House race, a pro-voucher political action committee poured nearly $1 million into expenditures for Lee Reeves campaign, which Lee backed. Yet Reeves won by only 95 votes, picking up 35% of the total, to defeat County Commissioner Brian Beathard. Reeves will be the favorite to claim the seat being vacated by Republican Rep. Sam Whitson, who opposed Lees voucher plan to create a universal program providing $7,000 each for every student in the state to enroll in private schools.

Lees endorsement of several pro-voucher candidates was considered unusual at best. He picked a winner in Sumner County where Sen. Ferrell Haile rode some $400,000 in donations from Lt. Gov. Randy McNallys PAC to defeat Chris Spencer, co-founder of the Sumner County Constitutional Republicans.

Gov. Bill Lee put a great deal of energy  followed by dark-money resources  into attacking people who dont support his private-school voucher plan, which is reportedly bankrupting states such as Arizona.

But Lee took losses in the race between Sen. Jon Lundberg, the Senate Education Committee chairman who carried the Senate version of the voucher bill and fell to Bristol pharmacist Bobby Harshbarger, and longtime Rep. John Ragan of Oak Ridge, who lost to Rick Scarbrough, a veteran police chief.

The Lundberg defeat is likely to be the governors biggest drawback because not only could it be one less vote for private-school vouchers but it could cut into the power of Lt. Gov. Randy McNally as he nears the end of his political career.

MTSU political science professor Kent Syler said the primary results dont indicate any mandate for the governors education initiative.

Harshbarger, for instance, benefited from a political action committees funding and the support of his mother, U.S. Rep. Diana Harshbarger, who ran ads of her family with an endorsement by former President Donald Trump, indicating he supports her son.

It looks like a mixed bag where a lot of different issues were at play and  other variables that changed race to race, Syler says.

In Senate District 8, the Education Freedom Fund, which was funded by the Club for Growth, spent heavily on Jessie Seal, helping him handily beat veteran Sen. Frank Niceley, a voucher opponent.

The PAC spent north of $3.5 million targeting Lees voucher opponents.

Veteran Republican Sen. Frank Niceley lost to a political newcomer who was backed by school voucher groups. (Photo: John Partipilo)

Niceley, a Strawberry Plains farmer, who supported private-school voucher legislation during the early 1990s as a House member, changed his tune this year.

Count that as a victory for Lee in his voucher quest. But its unclear whether the injection of dark money into the campaign was nearly as critical as Niceleys failure to take his opponent seriously. It appeared, more than anything, that Niceley simply reached the end of his political career.

Lee also picked up a partial-win in East Tennessees House District 68 race to replace outgoing Rep. Bryan Richey, who suspended his campaign and was demolished by Tom Hatcher, in a separate Senate race. Hatchers position on vouchers is unclear, but heading into election day voucher groups had spent over half-a-million dollars to boost his candidacy. Hatcher disavowed the dark-money spending, according to reports.

Lee also won in Clarksville where newcomer Aron Maberry captured the primary to replace Republican Curtis Johnson, a moderate old-timer.

The governor took a punch to the chin, though, in Anderson County where Republican Rep. John Ragan of Oak Ridge, a staunch voucher proponent, fell to Scarbrough, a former Clinton police chief.

Tom Stinnett dealt the Lee forces a loss, too, in Blount County, narrowly defeating Nick Bright and Jason Emert, the governors pick.

Tennesseans for Student Success and Team Kid PAC claimed a victory in Scarbroughs win. Yet the organization is sitting on the fence when it comes to private-school vouchers, refusing to say it supports Lees plan but claiming victories in eight races for candidates who largely supported vouchers.

A press release from the groups says, Primary results show Tennesseans dont want to return to a second-rate education, explaining they are celebrating the critical role foundational education policies played in the election results.

Scarbroughs website mentions no backing for the governors proposal, instead touting endorsements from several school board members.

Rep. Patsy Hazlewood lost in a close race to Michelle Reneau, who is unclear about support for vouchers. (Photo: John Partipilo)

Similarly, Republican candidate Michele Renaeu, who narrowly defeated House finance committee chairwoman Patsy Hazlewood, says on her website she supports local control in education but mentions nothing about vouchers. Its unclear whether she will jump on the governors bandwagon.

Both Lee and former Gov. Bill Haslam endorsed Hazlewood, who voted to add Hamilton County to the states education savings account program a year ago, chalking up yet another loss for the Lee Administration.

In short, Lee put a great deal of energy  followed by dark-money resources  into attacking people who dont support his private-school voucher plan, which is reportedly bankrupting states such as Arizona.

The amount of money spent in this years primaries left a stench, while Lees tacit approval tainted some of the outcomes.

The governors credibility is at stake as the general election arrives in November and the Legislature returns to Nashville in January 2025. By then, the governor might not have much of a bully pulpit left to pass a program running into serious problems nationally and roadblocks in rural Tennessee where lawmakers are leery.

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Tennessee man sentenced to death in 2018 killing of Dickson County deputy seeks new trial

A man sentenced to death in the 2018 killing of a Dickson County deputy is hoping to get a new trial.

Steven Wiggins was found guilty in 2021 of premeditated first-degree murder, first-degree felony murder, theft of property, criminal impersonation, filing a false report, arson and abuse of a corpse after Sgt. Daniel Baker was shot to death while responding to a report of a suspicious vehicle in May 2018.

Wiggins was sentenced to death on those charges. In April 2022, he pled guilty to carjacking and firearms violations in federal court in connection with the case and was sentenced to life in prison.

On Tuesday, attorneys Luke Evans and Robert Kurtz appeared before Dickson County Judge David Wolfe about a motion for a new trial in Wiggins' case. No details regarding the basis for the motion were discussed during the roughly four-minute hearing.

Wolfe set a Dec. 9 deadline for prosecutors to respond to the motion, then set a hearing date on Feb. 4, 2025.

Baker's death captured on body camera footage

Baker's body camera footage played a key role in Wiggins' trial.

Footage showed Baker radioing information about the suspicious vehicle he was dispatched to investigate. Dispatchers told Baker the vehicle, driven by Wiggins, was reported stolen the day before by Erika Castro-Miles, Wiggins' girlfriend at the time.

Baker asked Wiggins to get out of the vehicle. Wiggins told Baker the driver door wouldn't open so the deputy moved to the passenger side.

Then there were gunshots.

Baker, who'd been hit, tried to flee. The deputy ultimately died after three shots to the head and two to his torso. His body camera kept recording.

Wiggins pulled Baker's body into the backseat of his patrol car, then drove away, answering the deputy's cell phone and radio and pretending to be him.

Baker's body and burned patrol car were later found about two miles from the scene of the shooting. The discovery kicked off a multi-hour manhunt for Wiggins. Around 8 a.m., more than 48 hours after the shooting, Wiggins was captured in Hickman County.

What the motion says

In the 42-page motion, filed in June, Evans outlines a dozen reasons for a new trial.

"Although individual errors may constitute harmless error, the cumulative effect of multiple errors may require reversal to uphold a defendant's right to a fair trial," Evans wrote in the motion. "Each of the errors set forth in Mr. Wiggins' Amended Motion for New Trial is sufficient, standing alone, to warrant a new trial."

Evans argues there were errors in judgement on the part of the trial judge, and errors of improper evidence submission by prosecutors.

He also argues that there was not enough evidence presented to prove premeditation, a requirement of the first-degree murder statute, or that theft of Baker's patrol vehicle was the driving intent of the shooting, a requirement for the felony murder charge.

"There was no proof of any prior relationship between Mr. Wiggins and the victim. There was no proof that Mr. Wiggins threatened to kill the victim in the case," Evans wrote. "Although Mr. Wiggins possessed a firearm, there was no proof that Mr. Wiggins procured the firearm for the purpose of killing the victim."

Evans claimed in the motion that District Attorney General Ray Crouch, Jr. should have stepped down from the case because his "display of personal fidelity and bias towards the decedent's family and law enforcement in this case required recusal.

"General Crouch aligned himself publicly and politically with the decedent's family and local law enforcement," Evans wrote. "Examples of this include General Crouch's social media posts as well as his efforts to pass legislation that would have a direct impact on Mr. Wiggins' case."

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: TN man convicted in Dickson County deputy's death seeks new trial
A Tenure Project Conference attendee asks a question during the Deans Panel at the Tenure Project Conference last week at USC Marshall. (USC Photo / Grayson Adler)

One thing noticeably missing in Zachariah Berrys undergraduate classrooms: Professors who looked like him.

A second-generation Mexican American, Berry grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, where his experience often felt far different from the faculty at his small liberal arts school. As he pursued higher degrees at more elite institutions  including a PhD in Organizational Behavior at Cornell University  doubts inevitably crept in: Could he do it? Were PhDs actually possible for students like him?

Berry joined The PhD Project during his second year at Cornell. He found a community of people with similar identities and struggles and a support system to push him through. PhD in tow, he joined the faculty of University of Southern Californias Marshall School of Business just a month and a half ago.

His tenure clock started that very moment. Now, similar doubts are starting to bubble up again.

Zachariah Berry

The tenure process is difficult and enigmatic for everyone, no matter who you are. But, when you look at the people who do have tenure, especially in my own field, many of them dont look like me or have the background I have. That starts to introduce concerns, says Berry, an assistant professor of management and organization.

Last week, he attended the third annual conference of The Tenure Project, this one hosted by his new employer, USC Marshall. Much like the PhD Project, the goal is to close the tenure gap for Black, Latinx, and Native American faculty in U.S. business schools.

Something like The Tenure Project, where there are other Hispanic people on the same journey, its really inspiring and empowering, he tells Poets&Quants.

THE TENURE PROJECT AT USC MARSHALL

The Tenure Project was founded in 2021 by two professors, Wendy de la Rosa of University of Pennsylvanias The Wharton School and Esther Uduehi of University of Washingtons Foster School of Business. Both are past winners of our 50 Best Undergraduate Professors awards, Uduehi in 2022, and Rosa in 2023.

The USC Marshall School of Business has been a gold sponsor of the project since the beginning, and last week it hosted the projects third annual conference  the first non-founding school to do so. The conference attracted 65 senior faculty and 114 junior faculty from around the country. (It would have been more but a number of attendees were tied up in the disastrous CrowdStrike update for Microsoft that canceled flights around the world.)

When I first heard about The Tenure Project, I thought, Obviously. Why has this not existed before? says Sarah Townsend, vice dean of diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as associate professor of management and organization. She led the charge to bring the conference to Marshall as well as the planning committee that organized it.

Sarah Townsend

Getting into a PhD program and finishing a PhD program is hard, but so is tenure. It is such an important initiative because it offers junior faculty from U.S, business schools a space to come together, build community, and address issues that affect Black, Latinx and Indigenous faculty as they pursue tenure. This group of folks is going to have all the hurdles to pass that everyone else does, as well as a whole different set of hurdles.

At the conference, USC Marshalls Shaun Harper, professor of business, education and public policy, welcomed attendees by reminding them that beyond a professional milestone, tenure gives one power to help shape the vision of their institutions.

Several of the sessions focused on building community and connection, a focus for Townsend in designing this years conference.

Tenure is an individual pursuit  no one else can write those papers and teach those classes. But it is also equally true that no one gets tenure alone, Townsend says. You do it with supportive mentors and sponsors and co authors and just friends.

TENURE CHALLENGES FOR FACULTY OF COLOR

Business school deans, professors, and admission directors are often quick to profess their schools commitment to DEI. B-school classrooms should rightly reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, and diversity of thought  of learning from and listening to people with viewpoints and backgrounds that are different from your own  better prepares students for increasingly globalized workplaces.

But not every b-school practices what it preaches, at least when it comes to tenure.

In a 2021 report, the AACSB (the main accreditation body for business schools) found that in U.S. b-schools, less than 4% of faculty are Black, less than 3% are Hispanic, and just 0.3% are Native American. That compares to an undergraduate student body that is about 8.6% Black and 16% Hispanic, and a U.S. population that is about 36% underrepresented minority.

In their research to organize the first Tenure Project conference in 2022, Rosa and Uduehi found that just about 150 scholars currently employed in pre-tenure faculty positions at U.S. business schools are Black, Latinx, or Indigenous.

Tenure is an intense and stress-inducing process for everyone. It is a years-long scrutiny of everything a professor contributes to their field and institution: The volume, quality, and impact of their research. Their teaching and institutional service. How other scholars judge their work, reputation, and influence.

But, junior faculty from underrepresented groups often must overcome other challenges as well.

Sarah Townsend, Vice Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion opens the Tenure Project Conference at USC Marshall. (USC Photo / Brian Morri)

The Imposter Syndrome Berry describes is a big one: Having few mentors or role models that look like you or understand your experience, and feeling like its not the path for you.

How ones background informs their research questions and interests is another. You study things that you observe in your environment and that you think are important, but if youre in the minority, then the discipline as a whole might see that as very niche. That can be harder to publish and make your case, Townsend says.

Minority faculty also often have more students of similar backgrounds seeking mentorship than non-minority faculty simply because there are fewer of them to go around. Rewarding, sure, but it also takes up time that could be spent on research.

Similar requests may often come from the business schools themselves.

One of the challenges some of my peers talk about is getting asked to do more school service than other junior faculty. It comes with a great intention of making sure diverse voices are heard, but that can certainly add up quickly, especially if you are one of, if not the only, person of color in your department, Berry says.

Geoff Garrett, USC Marshalls Robert R. Dockson Deans Chair in Business Administration, from left, moderates the Deans Panel with Ian Williamson, Dean,University of California, Irvine Paul Merage School of Business; and Frank Hodge, Dean,University of Washington Foster School of Business. (USC Photo / Grayson Adler)

COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION

The community Berry built and nurtured at the conference was one of the most valuable parts of the experience, he says. They started WhatsApp groups, and there was talk of starting an informal writers group on Zoom just to hold themselves accountable. Not a lot of talking, but just to have someone there to keep you on task while working through research or other projects.

Another highlight: Sessions organized by discipline and institution type  R1 Research universities versus a teaching-focused university  to help faculty wade through different tenure expectations. It helped Berry better understand the process for management and organization professors at a big research university like Marshall. His peers asked questions he wouldnt have thought to ask.

For his own research, Berry is interested in morality and ethics  why good people do wrong, how our relationships can corrupt us in subtle ways. He believes things like The Tenure Project are important not only to help people like him get published and stay on track, but for the schools themselves.

As we continue to diversify the student body  which is amazing  you absolutely need diversification of faculty. As a 17 or 18 year old going to college, having an Hispanic business professor would have hit me very differently. Just to see that can be really really empowering, Berry says.

At Marshall, were training individuals, these young undergraduates, to be the next business leaders, to create organizations, and to lead existing ones. I think its really important to ensure that every student, especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds, feel empowered to create and to join these massive endeavors that many of their other peers are going to.

DONT MISS: THE P&Q INTERVIEW: AFTER 29 YEARS AT VILLANOVA, NEW B-SCHOOL DEAN LOOKS TO THE FUTURE AND IN SAN FRANCISCO, A SMALL B-SCHOOL UNDERGOES A BIG  AND IMPACTFUL  TRANSFORMATION

The post The Tenure Project: Increasing The Number Of Black, Hispanic & Indigenous Business School Faculty appeared first on Poets&Quants.
This photo provided by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice shows death row inmate Arthur Lee Burton, who was condemned for the July 1997 killing of Nancy Adleman and faces execution Wednesday evening, Aug. 7, 2024, at the state penitentiary in Huntsville. (Texas Department of Criminal Justice via AP)

HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP)  A Texas man who claimed an intellectual disability in a late attempt at a reprieve was executed Wednesday evening for the killing of a woman who was jogging near her Houston home more than 27 years ago.

Arthur Lee Burton, 54, received a lethal injection at the state penitentiary in Huntsville and was pronounced dead at 6:47 p.m. local time. He was condemned for the July 1997 killing and attempted rape of Nancy Adleman, a 48-year-old mother of three.

Burton appeared nervous as he lay strapped to the death chamber gurney and a spiritual adviser prayed briefly over him, the inmate's right leg twitching under a white sheet that covered him from his chest to his feet.

I want to say thank you to all the people who support me and pray for me, Burton said when asked by the warden if he had a final statement, his voice repeatedly cracking with a sharp breath after saying several words.

To all the people I have hurt and caused pain, I wish we didn't have to be here at this moment, but I want you to know that I am sorry for putting y'all through this and my family. I'm not better than anyone. I hope that I find peace and y'all can too.

He nodded to his brother, Michael, watching through a window nearby, took four gasps as the lethal dose of the sedative pentobarbital began taking effect, then appeared to yawn before all movement stopped. He was pronounced dead 24 minutes later.

Adleman had been brutally beaten and strangled with her own shoelace in a heavily wooded area off a jogging trail along a bayou, police said. According to authorities, Burton confessed to killing her, saying she asked me why was I doing it and that I didnt have to do it. He recanted this confession at trial.

Hours before the scheduled execution time, the U.S. Supreme Court declined a defense request to intervene after lower courts had previously rejected Burton's request for a stay.

Burton's lawyers had argued that reports by two experts and the records showed Burton exhibited low scores on tests of learning, reasoning, comprehending complex ideas, problem solving, and suggestibility, all of which are examples of significant limitations in intellectual functioning. They had argued the evidence was a strong indication of an intellectual disability that made him "categorically exempt from the death penalty.

Prosecutors, however, argued that Burton had not previously raised claims of an intellectual disability and that he had waited until eight days before his scheduled execution to do so.

An expert for the Harris County District Attorneys Office, which prosecuted Burton, said in an Aug. 1 report that he had not seen any evidence Burton suffered from a significant deficit in intellectual or mental capabilities.

I have not seen any mental health or other notations that Mr. Burton suffers from a significant deficit in intellectual or mental capabilities, said the report by Thomas Guilmette, a psychology professor at Providence College in Rhode Island.

The Supreme Court in 2002 had barred the execution of intellectually disabled people. But it has given states some discretion to decide how to determine such disabilities.

Burton was convicted in 1998 but his death sentence was overturned by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals in 2000. He received another death sentence at a new punishment trial in 2002.

In their petition to the Supreme Court, Burtons lawyers accused the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals of rejecting their claims of intellectual disability because of hostility toward prior Supreme Court rulings that criticized the states rules on determining intellectual disability.

In its filing to the Supreme Court, the Texas Attorney Generals Office denied that the state appeals court was refusing to adhere to current criteria for determining intellectual disability.

Burton was the third inmate put to death this year in Texas, the nations busiest capital punishment state, and the 11th in the U.S.

On Thursday, Taberon Dave Honie is scheduled to be the first inmate executed in Utah since 2010. He was condemned for the 1998 killing of his girlfriends mother.

___

Lozano reported from Houston.

___

Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter: https://twitter.com/juanlozano70
AUSTIN (KXAN)  The new school year is already beginning for some Central Texas districts, and members of different law enforcement agencies across the area gathered Wednesday to develop better connections with each other and share advice about how to keep schools safe.

The Austin Regional Intelligence Center, which is managed by the Austin Police Department, held its second school safety symposium. Det. West Williams said this meeting at a conference center in north Austin is especially helpful this year, as more school districts launch their own police departments to help comply with a state school security law requiring armed officers at every campus.

Back to school: When do local districts begin classes for the 2024-25 school year?

School safety is a changing landscape, Williams said. State policies, state procedures will change. It puts a burden onto the school districts. Theyre left to try to figure out how they can navigate through some of these changes. What we hope to accomplish today is not only provide people the ability to know who to contact if they have questions, whos out there to help them, what publications are out there to help them as well, but also make the connections.

Williams said the intelligence center monitors about 1,200 suspicious reports each year across a 10-county area, and at least 20% of those are related to school safety. These mostly come through online sources and social media, he said, so its important to build relationships among the growing number of agencies tasked with protecting campuses to easily share information and investigate.

One bad thing that happens in the school is unacceptable, West said, and if we can bring school administration together with law enforcement to subvert mass attacks or targeted violence from happening, then I think its a win-win situation that were all interested in.

Matthew Greer, the police chief for the Eanes Independent School District, came to the symposium Wednesday and found a session focused on how to talk with students while investigating cases of potential threats especially helpful. The presenter discussed behavioral threat assessments as well as mental health.

So often we just say, you know, whats happening? What did this person say? Greer explained. We forget about getting to the root cause of the issue and so thats why I think some of this training is really valuable.

His districts police department has now filled all 11 of its positions with retired Austin officers. Ahead of the new school year starting next week, they spent the summer break completing active shooter training, and now theyre meeting with staff members and students to share ways to keep themselves safe as well as report suspicious activity.

Just the variety of experience in the mental health field and just talking to people, thats what I think school policing is about. Its not traditional law enforcement. Its something totally different, Greer said. We dont deal with a lot of criminal behavior in our district. We do get some occasionally, but a lot of it is this  just helping kids and recognizing when kids are needing intervention and support.

Discussions also focused on how school districts striving to start their own police departments can best recruit officers. Greer said hes advised other district police chiefs to look at retired officers to fill those openings.

Theyre still young enough that they want to continue their careers. Theyre not ready to just sit home and and do projects around the house, but they may not want to be involved in a larger agency, he said, noting the backgrounds of his officers. So its really been amazing, and Im really proud of the the work that were doing.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  A man was injured Wednesday following a shooting involving law enforcement officials in Milam County.

According to the Milam County Sheriffs Office (MCSO), deputies helped respond to a shots fired call in Cameron shortly before noon in the 1500 block of Jackson Avenue.

MCSO said a man was shot in the hand by a Cameron Police officer who fired his weapon at the subject and struck him. It is unclear what led to the shooting.

Our deputies have secured the scene and requested Texas Rangers to investigate the matter, MCSO said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
A form of torture: Thai Airways passengers trapped on sauna flight for two-hours that never took off

Flight TG917 to Bangkok was delayed for almost 24 hours (Getty Images)

Passengers onboard a Thai Airways flight from London to Thailand claim they were trapped on the tarmac, sweating and suffering panic attacks for two hours before the faulty flight was cancelled.

Flight TG917, bound for Bangkok from Heathrow Airport, was scheduled to depart at 9.25pm on 25 July when the air-conditioning system reportedly malfunctioned.

A University of Exeter student onboard told the New York Post, we were hot and couldnt breathe, and added that conditions on the plane were like a form of torture.

According to the student, no food or water was provided during the two hours distressed passengers endured the sauna.

Due to night curfews at the London aviation hub between 11pm and 6am, no technicians were available to fix the air conditioning problem, and all passengers and crew deplaned the aircraft at 11pm.

The flight to Thailand was rescheduled to depart the next day, with passengers sleeping in the airport or taking public transport to find hotels overnight.

At 3.45pm the next day, the delayed journey was again disembarked and failed to take off for three hours due to engine issues with the Boeing 777 aircraft.

An onboard passenger said she was so disappointed by Thai Airways for how the airline handled the situation.

The Independent has contacted Thai Airways and Heathrow Airport for comment.

Its not the first time things have heated up in the cabin.

Last June, Jet2 passengers complained of being kept on a hot plane that was like a greenhouse during a nightmare experience that left children in tears.

The flight was due to leave Tenerife for Manchester at around 4.30pm, but the passengers were stuck in the sweltering heat while the plane remained sitting on the tarmac for almost two hours.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast.
Pita Limjaroenrat, the popular former leader of Move Forward, waves to crowds outside the party's headquarters following the constitutional court's verdict to dissolve the opposition group and ban his involvement in politics for a decade - CHALINEE THIRASUPA/REUTERS

Thailands hugely popular opposition party has been disbanded and its leader banned from politics in a court ruling that has been branded devastating and deeply disappointing.

The progressive Move Forward Party won a surprise victory in 2023, but their bid to lead a coalition government was thwarted by the conservative establishment nervous about proposed reforms.

On Wednesday, that powerful bloc delivered a final hammer blow. The constitutional court unanimously agreed to dissolve the party, ruling Move Forwards moderate calls to amend Thailands stringent lese-majeste laws constituted an attempt to overthrow the constitutional monarchy.

The decision was widely expected, after the court in January concluded Move Forwards suggested reforms were tantamount to treason. The lese-majeste rules prevent any criticism of the monarchy  an offence punishable with 15 years in jail  but human rights groups say it has been widely misused to quell opposition.

Todays outcome appears inevitable, other parties were dissolved for more trivial charges, said Napon Jatusripitak, a visiting fellow at the ISEAS Yusof-Ishak Institute, a think tank based in Singapore.

But it is also devastating and deeply disappointing. This is a grim reminder that democracy in Thailand is a sham. First, the party was blocked from power by forces appointed by the junta. Now that party is dissolved which, in effect, disenfranchises the 14 million voters who supported the party in 2023.

Move Forward supporters protest following the decision of Thailand's constitutional court to disband the party - NARONG SANGNAK/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK

As well as dissolving Move Forward, the court banned senior figures from politics for a decade, including the charismatic former leader Pita Limjaroenrat. The 142 surviving Move Forward MPs now have 60 days to move to a new party.

This is not the first time political parties have fallen foul of Thailands constitutional court  34 have been dissolved since 2006. Most recently Move Forwards predecessor, Future Forward Party, was disbanded after being charged with violations of election laws.

That verdict led to months of protests in 2020. It is not clear if the same will unfold this time. Many of the activists that led the demonstrations are in jail, having been charged with lese-majeste breaches while others are planning to channel their frustrations into support for the party that will replace Move Forward.

Mathis Lohatepanont, a political analyst, said: It is still too early to tell what will happen in the short term. However, recent history has shown that party dissolutions have acted more as temporary speed-bumps rather than permanent obstacles.

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Former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat, walks on the day Thailand's Constitutional Court delivers its verdict on a case seeking the dissolution of the opposite group over its call for lese-majeste reform, in Bangkok. Seksan Rochanametakul/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Thailand's top court on Wednesday dissolved the opposition Move Forward Party, a year after the progressive movement won parliamentary elections in the south-east Asian country.

The Constitutional Court in Bangkok outlawed the party, with former party leader Pita Limjaroenrat and other leading figures banned from holding office for a period of 10 years.

Local media reported that the court's motive was Move Forward's opposition to the Thai monarchy.

The court investigated the party after a complaint by the electoral commission that Move Forward may have acted unconstitutionally by calling for strict restrictions on criticism of the monarchy to be loosened.

The decision came as no surprise to political observers, nor the party itself.

In recent days, Move Forward posted a video on Facebook saying "the dissolution of a political party can only bring down a legal organization, but it can never silence an ideology."

Party dissolved, one year after winning elections

Move Forward won parliamentary elections in May 2023, but it was unable to secure power due to opposition from conservative Thai forces.

Pita, the party's charismatic leader in the elections, was repeatedly blocked in his bid to become prime minister by senators close to the country's military.

His opponents feared Move Forward's plan to reform the country's strict laws banning criticism of the monarchy, which can be punished with prison sentences of up to 15 years.

After weeks of wrangling following the election, Pita lost out to Sretta Thavisin from the Pheu Thai party, who became prime minister in August 2023.

Move Forward was not the first party to have been banned in Thailand, with its predecessor Future Forward being dissolved in 2020.

Deputy party leader said in a Facebook video that the spirit of Future Forward and Move Forward would remain, "whatever the name of the party."

Former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat, walks on the day Thailand's Constitutional Court delivers its verdict on a case seeking the dissolution of the opposite group over its call for lese-majeste reform, in Bangkok. Seksan Rochanametakul/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Updated Aug 8, 2024, 3:53am EDT Southeast Asia

The News

Thailands Constitutional Court on Wednesday voted unanimously to dissolve the popular progressive Move Forward Party and banned some of its leaders from politics for 10 years.

In its ruling, the countrys highest court said the party violated the constitution by campaigning to change Thailands controversial lese-majeste laws, which ban criticism of the royal family. The Move Forward Party won the most votes in Thailands elections last year, but was prevented from forming a government.

The verdict was expected  the court is considered a bastion of the monarchys conservative interests and it has similarly dismantled 34 other political parties in the past two decades.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Democracy struggles in Thailand

Sources: Reuters, The Washington Post, Nikkei Asia

Thailands democracy is defined by a struggle between its powerful conservative-royalist establishment, backed by the military, and parties with mass appeal like the MFP, Reuters wrote. The militarys history of interfering with politics stretches into the last century, a Washington Post columnist noted. In the last 20 years, there has been an increase in attempts to change that dynamic, but also an intensification in the establishments attempt to control dissent. The courts ruling deals a further blow to democracy, a political scientist wrote in Nikkei Asia: Power clearly does not reside with the Thai electorate but with the military, monarchy, judiciary, and privileged sections of the bureaucracy and big business who ultimately call the shots.

Verdict could have negative consequences internationally

Sources: Bangkok Post, Amnesty International, US Senate Foreign Relations Committee

The courts decision puts Thailand in a bad light globally, the editorial board of The Bangkok Post argued. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, condemned the verdict as an attempt to stifle civil liberties, and called for the country to change the lese-majeste laws to preserve democracy. US Sen. Ben Cardin, chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, sent a letter to Thailands foreign minister before the verdict came down to warn that dissolving the MFP would disenfranchise Thai voters. This action threatens to undermine Thailands commitment to democracy and human rights, shared values that have anchored our bilateral partnership for over 190 years, the letter said.

Ruling could backfire

Sources: The Diplomat, The Guardian, The Financial Times

The MFPs dissolution could have unintended political consequences, The Diplomat noted. The party appealed to young people disillusioned by the monarchys conservative rule and the courts 2020 decision to dismantle MFPs precursor, the Future Forward Party. It also appealed to other sections of Thai society fed up with Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former army officer who led a coup in 2014 and was prime minister until 2023, The Guardian added. One of MFPs former leaders told the Financial Times that he hoped the ruling will result in turbocharging calls for change. In 2020, there were protests after Future Forward was dissolved, but even if there are no demonstrations this time, [young people] are not going to change their minds, an expert said.
A Thai court on Wednesday ordered the kingdoms most popular political party to be disbanded, a verdict that delivers a major blow to a vibrant progressive movement and one that threatens to bring more political turbulence to Thailand.

The Move Forward Party won a stunning electoral victory in 2023, winning the most parliamentary seats on an anti-establishment reform agenda that drew huge support across the country, particularly among young people disaffected by years of military-backed rule.

The Constitutional Court in Bangkok ruled Wednesday that Move Forward should be dissolved, following a request from Thailands Election Commission, over the partys campaign to amend lese majeste, the countrys notoriously strict royal insult law.

In its unanimous ruling, the court accused Move Forward of undermining the monarchy and so the constitutional court has to inevitably disband the party.

In January, the same court ordered the party to end its lese majeste campaign, accusing its leaders, including former prime ministerial hopeful Pita Limjaroenrat, of seeking to overthrow the constitutional monarchy.

Wednesdays ruling goes further, dissolving the party and banning its executives from politics for 10 years  effectively disenfranchising 14 million people who voted for them and raising fresh concerns about the erosion of democratic rights in the kingdom.

Move Forwards leaders have repeatedly said that dissolution will not stop their movement. Speaking to the Associated Press this week, Pita said they will continue to fight so that Move Forward becomes the last party that joins the graveyard of political parties.

Its the first of two high-profile, politically sensitive cases with the potential to further entrench a power struggle between the establishment and progressives. Next week, the court is expected to rule on a petition seeking to remove Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office for appointing a lawyer who had served jail time to the Cabinet.

Crushing blow

Move Forwards election victory was a decisive win for progressive parties and delivered a crushing blow to the conservative, military-backed establishment that has ruled Thailand on and off for decades, often by turfing out popularly elected governments in coups.

Ultimately Move Forward was prevented from forming a government because it failed to win enough support for its royal reform agenda in parliament, which heavily favors the establishment under a political system implemented by the previous ruling military junta.

Pita resigned as leader of the party, which became the main opposition.

Thailands turbulent political history has previously seen parties that have pushed for change run afoul of the powerful establishment  a nexus of the military, royalist and influential elites.

The purportedly independent election commission, anti-corruption commission and the Constitutional Court are all dominated in favor of the establishment.

During the election, young people told CNN they felt they were the forgotten generation living under military-backed rule for nine years, while they struggled to find work or buy a home. We just cant see our future in this country, one young lawmaker said.

Wednesdays ruling will likely only further entrench the feeling for many young supporters that there is little hope for change within Thailands political system.

Progressive lawmakers have faced bans, parties have been dissolved, and governments have been overthrown. Thailand has witnessed a dozen successful coups since 1932, including two in the past two decades.

Its the second time the court has ordered the dissolution of parties linked to Move Forwards progressive movement.

Move Forward is the de facto successor to the Future Forward Party, which won the third most number of seats in the 2019 election. Shortly after the vote, Thailands Constitutional Court dissolved that party and banned its leaders from politics for 10 years.

That brought millions of young people out onto the streets across the country  sparking a nationwide youth-led protest movement in 2020 that saw the emergence of a new generation of young political leaders, many who openly criticized the monarchy and publicly questioned its power and wealth.

Lese majeste here to stay

The ruling could now ensure that no party or person would legally be able to push for amendments to lese majeste, known as Section 112, without violating the constitution.

The calls for reform of the monarchy electrified Thailand, where any frank discussion of the royal family is fraught with the threat of prison.

Criticizing the king, queen, or heir apparent can lead to a maximum 15-year prison sentence for each offense and sentences for those convicted Section 112 of the countrys criminal code can be decades long.

Hundreds of people have been prosecuted in recent years including Mongkol Thirakhot, who was sentenced to a record 50 years in prison in January for social media posts deemed damaging to the king.

Anyone  including ordinary citizens  can bring lese majeste charges on behalf of the king, even if they are not directly involved with the case. Move Forward pledged to reduce lese majeste sentences and limit who can make a complaint.

For years, human rights organizations and free speech campaigners have said the lese majeste law has been used as a political tool to silence critics of the Thai government.

Many of those who took part in the protests now face lese majeste charges and long jail sentences.

Legal Rights group Thai Lawyers for Human Rights said that at least 1,954 people have been prosecuted for their participation in political assemblies since the start of protests in July 2020, with at least 272 people charged with lese majeste.

Prominent activist lawyer Arnon Nampa is currently serving eight years in prison for two lese majeste convictions.

In May, the death of a young Thai activist in pre-trial detention for lese majeste charges shocked many in the country and sparked renewed calls for justice reform.

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U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar speaks at his election night party in Detroit on Aug. 6, 2024 | Ken Coleman

In Michigans 13th Congressional Primary, U.S Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Detroit) has secured the Democratic nomination and will move forward to the November ballot where he is favored to win the heavily Democratic district.

Thanedar secured the seat in 2022 and is on track for a rematch with Martell Bivings, who was the sole Republican on the primary ballot.

The Associated Press called the race for Thanedar at 2:12 a.m. Wednesday. As of 8:20 a.m., he leads Detroit City Council Member Mary Waters and Attorney Shakira Lynn Hawkins with more than 55% of the vote, with 77% of votes counted. Waters received 34% while Hawkins received 11%.

I want to thank my opponents for running and participating in the democratic process, Thanedar said at his election night party in Detroit. I thank U.S. House Democratic Leadership for endorsing me, as well as the unions and groups that supported my campaign. Now, Im looking forward to helping Vice President Kamala Harris and [her running mate, Minnesota] Gov. Tim Walz win Michigan so we can do even more for my constituents.

Michigans 13th District includes part of Detroit, and other Wayne County communities including the Grosse Pointe communities, Harper Woods, Hamtramck, Highland Park, River Rouge, Allen Park, Taylor and Romulus.

Since Thanedars election in 2022, Black representation for Detroit has been a continued discussion as 2023 marked the first year the city had been without Black representation in Congress since 1955. Thanedar is an immigrant from India, and Detroits other incumbent U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Detroit), is Palestinian American. Tlaib was unopposed in her primary in Michigans 12th Congressional District and easily won Tuesday night.

In a previous interview with the Advance, Waters emphasized that Black representation for Michiganders is very important.

Weve got to have somebody there who understands the unique needs of African Americans. Because we do have some unique needs  some of the things that we should be fighting for, when it comes to voting rights, for example, Waters said.

Waters earned the endorsement of the UAW and several metro Detroit leaders, including Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.

Thanedar has also been criticized by local and state leaders, like Duggan, who said he was not responsive to the communitys needs.

Everywhere I go, constituents always come up to me and tell me how my office helped them get their tax returns, sort out their VA benefits, get in touch with FEMA [Federal Emergency Management Agency], etc. That is a testament to my team and I couldnt be prouder of all their hard work and how effective we are in serving our constituents, Thanedar said Tuesday.

The freshman congressman noted he served as ranking member of the Small Business and Homeland Security subcommittees and sponsored and cosponsored more than 520 bills.

Thanedar also said hes brought money back to the district, citing $342 million for infrastructure projects and $15 million for community projects throughout the district for workforce development, infrastructure upgrades, surviving extreme weather events, and more.

Im especially thankful that I was able to bring federal dollars to municipalities that havent received federal money in decades, he said.

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State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue. July 25, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  A Nebraska lawmaker hopes the third time will be the charm in letting voters decide whether to prohibit future state-created unfunded or underfunded mandates on local governments.

Legislative Resolution 1CA, a constitutional amendment proposed by State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue, would prohibit future lawmakers from passing on the cost of a new program to local governments, or increase existing levels of service, without full reimbursement from the state. That would include counties, municipalities and school districts.

It is Bloods third attempt to push the idea and, as with her earlier proposals, the current legislation was unanimously voted out of the eight-member Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

It isnt that a lot of these programs are not necessary that have been passed down, Blood said last week. Its that, instead of trying to find a creative way to generate revenue to pay for it, theyve just passed that cost down and said, Bite the bullet.

Snowball effect

Without matching state resources, local governments often must raise taxes, usually through property taxes, to take on such unfunded or underfunded mandates, Blood said.

Local unfunded mandates

Legislative Resolution 1CA, a constitutional amendment, could let voters prohibit future mandates on local governments without full state reimbursement. It would not prohibit federal mandates, though it would prevent lawmakers from passing on unfunded requirements.

The following organizations have compiled documents summarizing some unfunded or underfunded mandates:

Some examples include:

Counties  Administering elections, providing indigent defense (for people who cant afford private attorneys) and conducting an autopsy or calling a grand jury after the death of a state prisoner.

Municipalities  Storing DNA and body camera evidence, conducting health monitoring, overseeing building codes, overseeing regulations to license various occupations and retirement pensions.

School districts  Enforcing student vaccine requirements, making curriculum changes, providing suicide awareness and prevention training, assuring graduation requirements and providing student health exams.

Local political subdivisions are also subject to placing public meeting notices in local newspapers and responding to records requests.

No single drop believes it causes the flood, and so when you pile these things on over time, it leads to an increased cost of government, Jon Cannon, executive director of the Nebraska Association of County Officials, told the Nebraska Examiner this summer.

He and other local government representatives voiced their support for Bloods legislation, while cautioning that an unfunded mandate doesnt mean its unnecessary.

Tim Gay, registered lobbyist for Sarpy County and a former county commissioner, testified in support of LR 1CA at its hearing. He said his county calculated it must pay for about $15 million in annual unfunded or underfunded mandates.

Gay said the change could improve cooperation with lawmakers in getting accurate fiscal estimates for legislation and ironing out spending details sooner.

History has shown impacts

Lynn Rex, executive director of the League of Nebraska Municipalities, said the federal government sometimes gives mandates to the state, but lawmakers or the executive branch pass on those requirements to local governments without giving them a dime.

Multiple studies have examined the impact of unfunded mandates going back to the 1990s, when Ben Nelson was governor, Blood said. Other lawmakers have taken up that mantle, too: State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha and former State Sens. Deb Fischer and Sue Crawford.

Gov. Jim Pillen also voiced support this summer for getting rid of unfunded mandates, although he didnt have lawmakers introduce legislation on his behalf to do that during the special session.

Over time, the state rolled back other aid to counties and municipalities, Rex said, particularly in hard budgeting times. Lawmakers also narrowed the local base for sales and property taxes, to be competitive with other states.

Just one of those shifts led to a reimbursement, Rex said: In 1977, the state exempted livestock, farm equipment and business inventory from property taxes.

By 2011, that $17.9 million allocation to municipalities was totally eliminated, Rex told the Revenue Committee last week.

Every time there was a fiscal crisis it was cut, cut and cut, and We will reimburse you as soon as the state recovers, she said. That never happened. Not once. Not ever.

Do the right thing

LR 1CA would require a companion bill to appear on the 2024 ballot  the current deadline is four months before the election. If passed alone, the issue would go on the 2026 ballot. If voters approve, future lawmakers would get to refine the policy, including exemptions.

Though LR 1CA was the first piece of legislation voted out of committee last week, Speaker John Arch of La Vista, who sets the Legislatures schedule, has said it will have to wait to be considered. First on the debate docket will be session expenses and then core property tax proposals that will come from the Revenue and Appropriations Committees.

Should lawmakers choose to stay in session, LR 1CA could be debated, but its not guaranteed.

Blood said LR 1CA is her last hurrah in her eighth and final year in the Legislature. She said its time that we put on our big girl pants and do the right thing.

Im puzzled, Blood said of the delay. Im disappointed, and I encourage people to reach out to their senators and say, I want to vote on this. Im appalled that this has never been taken to a vote for the people. What are they scared of?

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Three arrested for breaking into postal collection boxes across metro

MADISON, Miss. (WJTV)  Madison police said two men and one woman have been arrested for breaking into multiple postal collection boxes across the metro area.

Police said they began investigating the case, along with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), on August 5, 2024. They said a large collection box had been broken into in Madison.

Meridian police officer charged with statutory rape

Investigators were able to identify the suspects vehicle, which was located on Lakeland Drive. After a traffic stop, police said they found the suspected burglary tools inside the vehicle.

Madison police, USPS, Capitol police and Hinds County deputies located an additional suspect at the Red Roof Inn off of High Street. Inside the room, investigators said they found additional evidence, including stolen checks and other packages.

The suspects were identified as 21-year-old La Keith D. Fountain, of Houston, Texas; 22-year-old Quintin R. Hall, of Spring, Texas; and 25-year-old Jazmine R. Page, of Avondale, Arizona. The three suspects were booked into the Madison County Detention Center on charges of petit larceny. They were denied bond as the investigation continues.

La Keith D. Fountain (Courtesy: Madison County Detention Center)

Quintin R. Hall (Courtesy: Madison County Detention Center)

Jazmine R. Page (Courtesy: Madison County Detention Center)

According to Madison police, the investigation revealed that one mail box containing 133 checks totaling $70,000.00 was broken into at 990 Highway 51 in the City of Madison, one mail box in the City of Brandon, and four mail boxes in the City of Jackson.

Police said additional charges are expected as the case progresses.

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About two decades ago, if a small business needed help by the way of consulting, there wasnt a local option.

Thats when a group  business owners, chamber leaders and community stakeholders  came together to form whats now know as The Launch Place.

Previously called the Southside Business Technology Center  and still technically the legal name  the now Danville-based nonprofit continues the original mission to provide consulting services to businesses. In recent years it added another aid in the form of seed investments for technology companies.

Now, a recent grant of up to $1 million will expand those offerings to include legal and financial advisory services.

The grant is designed to help small- and medium-sized businesses that face challenges and want outside advice, Eva Doss, the president and CEO of The Launch Place, explained to the Register & Bee in an interview last week.

Its also there for new companies or an entrepreneur who wants to start one.

And we dont charge for that, Doss, whos been at the helm of the nonprofit since Feb. 14, 2005, said.

Depending on the project, they can allocate 10 or 20 hours of consulting.

As youre starting out, you can receive these consulting hours from us free of charge, she said. And you can receive legal advice as to how to establish your company or any challenges you might have about growing your company, or what are the basic principles of accounting and financial management.

The more complicated services  like a strategic plan that takes six months to develop  will still come at a charge.

The money comes from an expansive federal program called the State Small Business Credit Initiative that set aside $10 billion devoted to providing services to very small businesses, Varun Sadana, the vice president of The Launch Place, explained.

That overall amount includes $200 million for technical assistance programs distributed throughout the nation. Virginia received $4.1 million of that funding and The Launch Place was approved for up to $1 million.

Then and now

Tracing its roots back 19 years, The Launch Place has grown from one employee to three full-time workers, two consultants and a host of volunteer experts.

Now its a self-sustained operation  the goal from the beginning  generating revenue from consulting fees in the more in-depth endeavors and bringing a return on investment on the technological side.

The Southside Business Technology Center first launched in Martinsville after being approved for a grant in August 2004 from The Harvest Foundation, that areas equivalent of the Danville Regional Foundation.

Since then we have expanded, Doss said of the Southern Virginia operation.

It was in 2008 that the Danville Regional Foundation sponsored the opening of the Danville office.

Even after 19 years, clients continue coming back. The Launch Place can do a deep dive inside a business when the operation wants to streamline or look at an expansion.

The name change coincided with a new investment aspect launched in 2012 specifically for technology companies.

Even if its a great idea, even if its a great thing, these startup companies need investment capital, Doss said.

That started a conversation with Karl Stauber, who was the president and CEO of the Danville Regional Foundation at the time.

In what was called an unprecedented $10 million grant from the foundation, The Launch Place was able to grow the consulting services and provide seed money for technology investments.

Since then, more money flowed from the foundation to aid technology-based companies.

The funds arent grants, instead its an investment that ranges from $100,000 to $250,000 in exchange for stock.

The goal is for the company to sell at some point, allowing The Launch Place to recoup the investment at a higher rate.

Prior to this seed funding, an idea was floated for an angel network  basically a group of investors  to start.

Those talked started in 2008 before the economy turned sour and the Great Recession, as its known now, started.

We had to abort, Doss explained.

But it turned out The Launch Place had some if its most busy years from 2008 to 2011 with companies struggling to stay a float.

Doss said they received calls for consulting on reorganizations, mergers and buyouts.

By 2011  as is customary after a downturn  more startup ideas started to grow in the region.

Other resources, successes

Aside from big dollops of money coming from seed funding, there are smaller dollar amounts available from a pre-seed pot. Thats for businesses that arent yet established and still in the infancy.

They still need to fine-tune much more, Doss explained. In the technology world, that means making sure theres a demand for a pitched gizmo. To find out, a smaller amount of money is spent to do interviews and talk to potential clients.

And when the company has achieved that, then they will have a potential to receive additional funding from the seed fund.

The investments are only for technology-based companies ... that will sell at one point so we can recoup our investment, Doss stressed of a point thats often confused. The business consultancy services from the very beginning are available to any small business, you do not have to be a technology company.

For consulting work, theyve helped Averett University, the Arc of Southside and traditional businesses.

For Doss, one of the success stories is Jeff Bonds Solex Architecture.

He will never take credit for his success, Doss said of the founder and owner of the architectural firm.

After graduating from Virginia Tech, Bond came to The Launch Place because he wanted to open his own establishment. He worked out of space at The Launch Place, a free option for up to a year.

And ever since then he has been growing, Doss said. And ever since then, when he has some business questions, he always turns to us.

The Launch Place also helped Danvilles 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company with business planning.

They got established, and ever since, theyre are continuous clients of ours, Doss said.

Then theres The Butchers Block in Dry Fork. The Launch Place was able to help that small business secure grants that revamped the entire shop, according to Sadana. Now its a United States Department of Agriculture inspected site, which has helped it grow.

However, sometimes its not always a win for the business. Just because The Launch Place provides consulting, it doesnt mean the results will be what owners want.

Youre solving a problem that doesnt exist, Doss said of some thing shes encountered over the years. Just because you paid us to do the study, it doesnt mean youre gonna have a yes.

Getting help

To find out if The Launch Place can help a business, Doss said the easiest thing to do is send an email listed for all employees at thelaunchplace.org.

Dont be afraid to call us even ... if youre not an IT company, she said, again referencing the somewhat confusing nature of offerings.

If you are an existing company and existing firm that is either expanding, has some difficulties, figuring out the future needs and organizational restructuring, any business problem you have, dont be afraid to call us she said. And if youre a startup, also, its a phone call away.

Even if hey may not be able to help, they can likely pass along connections and resources for someone who can.

If we dont know your problem, we cannot help you, she said bluntly.

Still after nearly 20 years, many people have either yet to hear of The Launch Place or fully understand its offerings.

Even when it hosts Ideafest  a business pitch competition  there are about 130 applications from all over Virginia and North Carolina.

We dont get enough applications locally, Doss said, even though details of the yearly event are well advertised.

She said its the same with the Big Launch Challenge, another competition targeting startups across the nation.

Why stay?

The Launch Place has invested in 27 companies, Doss said, when asked why shes stuck with it for 19 years.

And they are growing every day, its a different challenge, she explained. Its like raising children  at times it feels like  but its really good to see them grow and be successful.

She also likes learning about new technology that companies are pitching. But another aspect involves the city itself.

And also what has happened with the Danville Regional Foundations grants in the area and other infusions of talent and capital into Danville, its just really cool to see how far the city has come and the region, she said. And we just like to be part of it.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  State Representative Carlos Gonzalez, the western Massachusetts delegation, and other local leaders gathered in Springfield to celebrate the grand reopening and expansion of the Three Sisters Salon & Spa.

Ana Terrero from the Dominican Republic is the owner of the salon and spa. This salon is about 1,000 square feet and will provide hair and nail services, facials, waxing, slimming massages, and clinical treatments. The employees have mixed nationalities as a way to bring Latin culture into the city of Springfield.

Free summer meals for kids still available in most communities

Terrero explains to 22News what this means to her, It was a dream come true. When I came here I wanted to open up a salon and a spa and it took years but I was able to open up the spa and now the salon is also open.

State Representative Gonzalez says the growing number of micro-businesses in the Springfield area shows the communitys resilience and growth. Three Sisters Salon & Spa will help with not only economic growth but also provide more job opportunities and enhance community engagement in the city.

Its inspiring to witness the significant growth in immigrant and Latino micro-business startups and their expanding services in recent years. The immigrant community remains essential in fueling economic growth, creating jobs, and revitalizing neighborhood business districts by increasing foot traffic, said Carlos Gonzalez, State Representative.

Three Sisters Salon & Spa is located at 897 Carew Street in Springfield.

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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.
Three Springfield residents arrested after complaints of drug activity in Worthington Street area

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  Three people were arrested on Tuesday after officers seized a stolen firearm and illegal narcotics after complaints of drug dealing in Springfield.

Illegal loaded firearm found in bedroom of Springfield teenager

According to the Springfield Police Department, there have been several reports of drug activity in the area of Worthington and Federal Streets, as well as ShotSpotter activations. Officers conducted surveillance in the area on Tuesday and observed a suspected drug deal on the 900 block of Worthington Street.

Geovonney Aguilar, 19-years-old of Springfield, got into a car and made a suspected drug deal. Once the vehicle drove off, a traffic stop was performed on Elm Street. The driver, 51-year-old Daisy Bocachica of Springfield, had crack cocaine in her purse and was arrested.

Officers were still surveying Aguilar and saw him make more suspected drug deals. Officers approached Aguilar when he started to run away. After a police chase, a gun fell out of his hoodie pocket and was placed under arrest. The loaded firearm was capable of holding 15 rounds of ammunition and was also reported stolen out of South Carolina.

At the same time that officers were observing Aguilar, another suspect, 59-year-old Victor Tanon, was seen throwing a container on the ground. The container was found to have 24 vials of cocaine inside. Tanon was placed under arrest.

The illegal firearm, $120, seven bags of heroin, 23 vials of crack cocaine, and 23 vials of cocaine were seized from Aguilar. Two vials of crack cocaine were seized from Bocachica and 24 vials of cocaine, 2 bags of heroin, and $55 from Tanon.

Geovonney Aguilar of Springfield is charged with:

Carrying a Firearm without a License

Carrying a Loaded Large Capacity Firearm on a Public Way

Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm during the Commission of a Felony (Four Counts)

Receiving Stolen Property Less than $1200

Resisting Arrest

Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Class A Drug

Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Class B Drug

Victor Tanon of Springfield is charged with:

Distribution of a Class B Drug

Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Class A Drug

Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Class B Drug

Daisy Bocachica of Springfield is charged with:

Possession of a Class B Drug

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.
Melesa Johnson clinched the Democratic primary for Jackson County prosecutor and will face the Republican contender in the November election.

Johnson garnered about 50% of the vote, according to unofficial results from the Kansas City Board of Election Commissioners and the Jackson County Election Board.

She faced Stephanie Burton and John Gromowsky in the Aug. 6 primary. They each won about 25% of the votes.

The three competed to replace longtime Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, who is not seeking reelection. Johnson will face Republican Tracey Chappell in the general election on Nov. 5.

Johnson is Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas director of public safety and supports a practice called transformative justice.

Burton is a defense attorney who has worked with the Midwest Innocence Project and the Death Penalty Litigation Clinic.

Gromowsky was a defense attorney in between two stints with the prosecutors office, where he currently serves in the violent crimes unit.

The candidates shared their views on various issues including crime and the death penalty at several debates in the run up to the primary.

Johnson will inherit an office that has focused on prosecuting violent crime cases amid an alarming gun violence rate and rebuilding its relationship with the Kansas City Police Department.
Tim Walz is Harris' VP pick. Northeastern Wisconsin Republicans say 'it's the best scenario'

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks to the press after attending a meeting with President Joe Biden and other Democratic governors July 3 at the White House in Washington, DC.

GREEN BAY  The quality about Tim Walz that Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted in her running mate announcement on Instagram was what some have dubbed as his "Midwestern dad" appeal.

She noted high up in the Monday morning post that Walz grew up in a small Nebraskan town, that he enlisted in the National Guard, that he was a teacher before working as Minnesota governor with Republicans on infrastructure improvements. He's the Midwesterner who Democrats believe brings balance to the ticket, and a shot at winning the presidency through the Rust Belt.

Wisconsin Republicans four hours east of the Minnesota governor's mansion say they couldn't have asked for a better running mate.

"I don't think Obama would've chosen him," said Ken Sikora, chair of the Republican Party of Oconto County. "It doesn't make any sense from our standpoint. It's the best scenario."

Where many Democrats point to Walz's policy stances and personality traits as valuable in building a broad coalition of voters, some Republican county chairs, political candidates, and personalities across northeastern Wisconsin view those same points as liabilities in the rural parts of the state.

A sigh of relief that it wasn't Shapiro, another VP candidate

Some of the conservatives the Press-Gazette talked to commented on the humor of Harris choosing an "older, white man" to balance her ticket, a flip of what was the Biden-Harris ticket (and opposite to the Trump-Vance ticket).

Many were "pleasantly surprised" that Harris hadn't chosen Josh Shapiro, the popular Pennsylvania governor and former state attorney general eight years her junior.

"Josh Shapiro could easily outshine Kamala," said Joe Giganti, a host of "The Regular Joe Show," a conservative talk radio show on WTAQ. "Walz's not as charismatic, not as engaging. You never bring an opening act better than the main band."

Democrats see Walz, however, as a particularly effective voice for the party against Trump. His comments that policies put forward by former President Donald Trump and Republicans are "weird" have struck a chord among Democrats, who cite his plain-spoken language and style as part of his charm as a "Midwestern dad."

But hailing from Minnesota won't do much for the Democratic ticket in their state, area Republicans said. The two states might be neighbors, they said, but about as different on policy as one could get.

"Does anyone in Wisconsin pay attention to Minnesota?" Sikora said.

On policy, Walz was viewed as too 'liberal' for rural Wisconsinites

Two events under Walz's first term as Minnesota governor were a constant drumbeat in conversations with northeastern Wisconsin conservatives: COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter.

Minnesota Republicans in 2020 and 2021 criticized both Walz's COVID-19 policies that the state's Supreme Court upheld and his response to the Minneapolis riots that followed George Floyd's murder, the former for being too fast and overreaching, the latter for being too slow and not forceful enough, a sentiment that area conservatives were quick to share.

"Walz allowed his city to run wild," said Joel Bartel, chair of the Republican Party of Waupaca County, referencing Minneapolis, 25 minutes to the west of St. Paul, the Minnesota capital.

"I can see the Midwestern part of him," said Jessica Henderson, the Republican candidate for the 90th Assembly District. "I don't see the moderate part."

Following the pandemic and Minneapolis protests, Walz won a second term by nearly 200,000 votes against Scott Jensen, a Trump-endorsed former Minnesota state senator. Harris leads Trump by 6 points in Minnesota according to the latest Fox News poll; she leads him by 10 points in the latest KSTP/SurveyUSA poll.

But Harris and Trump are neck and neck in Wisconsin, and Republicans in Wisconsin don't believe the policies enacted under Walz's administration will resonate with rural voters.

During his time as governor, Walz signed legislation that enshrined abortion as a legal right into the state's constitution, legalized recreational marijuana, and provided free breakfast and lunch in public schools. As Republican-led states rolled back transgender care and protections from their laws, Walz signed an executive order in 2023 that would protect rights to gender affirming health care in Minnesota. It was introduced at the same time the state's first openly transgender representative, Leigh Finke, introduced a bill to protect minors who travel to Minnesota for medical interventions from court actions in their state.

Many of the conservatives the Press-Gazette spoke with said Walz's policies won't appeal to rural voters in Wisconsin.

"You go on a farm and you don't find people supporting youth transition," Giganti said.

They believe that the election will come down to policy  especially economic policy  rather than personality or place of origin.

Harris and Walz will make their first stop as running mates in Wisconsin on Wednesday, touching down in Eau Claire's Chippewa Valley Regional Airport.

Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance will host his own event 11 minutes away at Wollard International just hours after Bon Iver opens for the main Harris-Walz act in their hometown.

Jesse Lin covers the community of Green Bay and politics in northeastern Wisconsin. Contact him at jlin@gannett.com or call 920-431-8247.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Northeastern Wisconsin GOP members say VP choice is 'best scenario'
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. Credit - Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

For Tim Walz, Vice President Kamala Harris running mate, the fight over in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures is not only about politicsits about his own family.

The Minnesota governor is open about how he and his wife, Gwen Walz, conceived their children Hope, 23, and Gus, 17, through a challenging IVF journey. Now hes sharing his personal experience with voters on the biggest political stage in the country while the future of the procedure is in jeopardy.

The Harris-Walz campaign has made it clear that protecting abortion rights, IVF, and fertility treatment are all policy priorities if they win the White House in November. The issues have taken on new urgency after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 and the Alabama supreme court ruled in February that frozen embryos have the legal rights of children.

After bipartisan pushback, Alabama lawmakers passed laws protecting IVF providers so the services could resume in the state. But with IVFs future uncertain in states that have fetal personhood laws, Democrats and reproductive rights advocates believe Walzs ability to speak from personal experience will be a powerful asset to the ticket.

Read More: IVF Changed America. But Its Future Is Under Threat

Voters respond when politicians are able to demonstrate not just that they understand how much it matters that we restore these rights and these freedoms, but they also understand what voters are going through, and it speaks to their own personal values, says Jessica Mackler, president of EMILYs List, an influential political organization that aims to elect pro-choice women. And so if voters are hearing these stories, they are looking at somebody and saying, This is somebody I can trust to lead on this issue.

Walz talked about IVF in his first appearance with Harris since she chose him as her running mate, at a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday. He said IVF is personal to him and chronicled the many emotions he felt when going through the fertility treatments. 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 had not worked, Walz told the crowd. So, it wasnt by chance that when we welcomed our daughter into the world, we named her Hope.

Walz then tied his personal experience back to the campaigns commitments to reproductive rights as a whole, saying that when he and Harris talk about freedom, they mean the freedom to make your own health care decisions.

Walzs remarks are already resonating with voters. Brittany Stuart, a Virginia resident whose 5-year-old was conceived through IVF in Alabama, says she sees in Walz not just a politician, but someone who understands how hard it is to make a child. Stuart says she did three years of fertility treatment and still has a frozen embryo in Alabama.

Infertility is hard enough on families, so to have it further demonized is just like, why are we doing this? Stuart says. So to hear Walz talk about his daughter openly it speaks volumes. Stuart says that her job in the news has prevented her from publicly supporting or donating to a candidate previously, but she plans to donate to the Harris-Walz ticket.

Read More: Where Tim Walz Stands on the Issues

Walzs experience with IVF is also clearly top of mind for the Harris campaign; his biography on the campaign website says that his personal connection further cement[s] his commitment to ensuring all Americans have access to this care.

While Walz is being introduced to a wider swath of Americans this week, this isnt the first time he has publicly discussed his familys IVF journey.

After the Alabama supreme court ruling in February, Walz took to Facebook to express his disappointment, pointing again to his children as examples to IVFs success. Dont let these guys get away with this by telling you they support IVF when their handpicked judges oppose it, Walz said in the post. Actions speak louder than words, and their actions are clear. Theyre bringing anti-science government into your exam room, bedroom, and classroom.

Former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee in 2024, nominated a raft of conservative judges to the judiciary during his first term, including three of the U.S. Supreme Court Justices who decided to overturn the constitutional right to abortion. This year, Trump criticized the Alabama ruling and expressed support for IVF. Trumps running mate, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, previously voted against the Right to IVF Act, which would have expanded nationwide access to fertility treatment, though he supported a separate Republican-led bill that would have stripped Medicaid funding from states that prohibit IVF. Vance recently has come under fire for his resurfaced comments about the Democratic Party as a party of childless cat ladies.

According to a Pew Research Center survey done in April, seven-in-ten adults believe that IVF access is a good thing, while only 8% say that its a bad thing.

With that political backdrop, theres even more pressure on Walzhes in the hot seat now that hes chosen to be a champion for IVF, says Barbara Collura, president of RESOLVE: The National Fertility Association. We love public awareness about this, but I can tell you that it's not enough to say you support IVF, Collura says. Just talking about it doesn't actually get people insurance coverage.

Collura is no stranger to Walzs story. RESOLVE is a non profit patient advocacy organization, which provides support groups, public awareness campaigns, and public policy around insurance coverage for IVF. They also have an annual Advocacy Day in which members of their community come together to speak to members of Congressan event which Walz spoke at back in 2017. Anytime somebody is brave enough to get up and talk about their infertility story, it's going to make a big difference on those of us who've gone through this, Collura says.

Marilyn Gomez, who was seeking fertility treatment in North Carolina, hopes that Walzs openness will bring reproductive rights to the forefront not just nationally, but in the 13 gubernatorial races and the many state elections in 2024. She says its hard to feel excited, but shes cautiously optimistic.

There are a lot of people that dont know that IVF is on the line, Gomez says. Last night when I watched [the rally] live, it was very moving, but also I just couldn't believe that in 2024 were still talking about it.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Tim Walz and JD Vance were both picked to win the Rust Belt. What sets them apart?

Democrats and Republicans are set for a battle over the industrial midwest and the Rust Belt this year  and their vice presidential picks show it.

Kamala Harriss selection of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz on Tuesday was a sign that her campaign has no plans to cede any ground in Wisconsin, Michigan or Pennsylvania  three states that have been critical in the past three election cycles. The selection of Walz, an affable football coach, former Army National Guardsman, and high school teacher, was a starting gun in the battle for the white working class that backed Trump in 2016.

JD Vance, meanwhile, has built a national brand around being a son of Appalachia whose background inspired both a strong social conservatism as well as a populist economic bent that mirrors Trumps own. Vance, like his running mate, rails against multinational trade deals he blames for sending manufacturing centers overseas and was the lone Republican member of Congress to show up on a picket line in 2023.

So what similarities can be drawn between the two midwestern politicians platforms, and where does the divide fall?

Economics

Despite all the grief Vance is likely to give the Harris campaign over the current state of the US economy, issues of trade and labor policy are among the greatest areas of agreement between Walz and his new archrival.

First, lets take the minimum wage. Walz, as a Democrat, carved out a careful moderate stance when the issue of pay rates for Uber and Lyft drivers came up under his tenure. Blocking a minimum pay rate bill that was causing the two companies to threaten to leave the state, Walz worked with rideshare companies to write a different bill which he signed into law this year  drivers are still expected to see their rates rise under the new law.

Vance is one of just a few Republicans on Capitol Hill who also supports efforts to raise wages through legislation. The Ohio senator signed on to a piece of legislation in 2023 that would have raised the federal minimum wage to $11 and indexed it to inflation.

Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio, arrives to board his plane at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Hebron, Kentucky (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Moving on to trade: Walz and Vance have both made reputations for themselves as free trade skeptics. When he was in Congress, Walz voted repeatedly against trade bills he argued would lead to more jobs being outsourced overseas, including legislation that would have streamlined Barack Obamas ability to secure an agreement on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Vance has railed repeatedly against both NAFTA, as well as the US support for China joining the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2000.

The two both claim to be pro-union as well. Walz has supported an ambitious progressive labor agenda as governor of Minnesota, including outlawing non-compete agreements and barring businesses from penalizing employees for refusing to participate in what are called captive audience meetings where anti-union materials are distributed and discussed. Walz is a former United Auto Workers (UAW) member and like Vance appeared on a picket line for the Auto Workers in 2023. The senator does not, however, support the PRO Act  a piece of federal legislation meant to protect collective bargaining which is strongly supported by national unions.

Social issues

The two men vying to be Americas next vice president both claim to be pro-family. They have widely disparate ideas about what that means.

Vances views on the American family have been in the center of the spotlight in the weeks since he was nominated at the GOP convention in July. Unearthed comments from 2021 reveal him attacking unmarried women, childless Americans of both genders and arguing that Americans with children should be granted extra votes at the ballot box. He has stated that he does not believe Americans without children  for whatever reason  have the same stake in the countrys future as those who do.

Along with those statements, which have caused headaches for the Trump-Vance campaign, Vance believes in a laundry list of socially conservative positions. Like many conservatives a decade after gay marriage protections were established country-wide, Vance doesnt make his views on whether he thinks it should be legal clear; he dodged such questions in 2022 when a bill to codify those protections into law was moving through Congress while stating that hed oppose the bill on religious liberty grounds. Hes also spoken out repeatedly against divorce and raised concerns about Americas birthrate.

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris is welcomed by Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, before she delivers remarks at a campaign event, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Eau Claire, Wisc. (AP)

Walz is, of course, the polar opposite  a progressive on social policy who declared his state a refuge for transgender Americans and whose selection as VP nominee is a clear sign that Harris will continue her embrace of the LGBTQ community as she campaigns for president. And hes a proud supporter of IVF, having used fertility treatments in the conception of his daughter Hope.

On the issue of abortion, Vances views are notable too. He supports a national abortion ban, something his running mate claims he would not sign into law. That discrepancy has been a target of Democratic attacks, as Harriss party seeks to block Trumps efforts to escape the most extreme anti-abortion legislation members of his party have championed around the country.

Foreign policy

Americas footprint abroad is another major area of division between Walz and Vance as voters face a major crossroads on the issue of Ukraine this November.

President Joe Biden and Harris alongside him have made financial, political and strategic support for Ukraine and its military a keystone of their foreign policy over the last three and a half years. Under Bidens leadership, Congress has sent billions of dollars in munitions, vehicles, arms and other resources to Ukraine to support its defense against Russias invasion, a position that can be largely described as the consensus among Americas foreign policy establishment in Washington. Liberal and conservative voices in the national security sphere have both professed the importance of countering Russian aggression in Ukraine and halting further such moves by Moscow in Eastern Europe. Walz was a vocal supporter of this view before joining the Harris 2024 ticket, and thats not about to change.

Vance, meanwhile, is one of the most vocal Ukraine skeptics in Congress. In unearthed text messages published by The Washington Post on Wednesday, he declared to fringe conspiracy theorist (and Holocaust revisionist) Charles (Chuck) Johnson that he wont even take calls from Ukraine and described futile efforts by top Ukrainian officials to discuss the issue of funding bills with his office: Two very senior guys reached out to me. The head of their intel. The head of the Air Force. Bitching about F16s.

In 2022, he also declared on Steve Bannons War Room podcast: "I gotta be honest with you, I dont really care what happens to Ukraine one way or another."

China is another issue where the two men differ substantially. Vance is supportive of Trumps efforts to spark what many experts have called a trade war with China, a series of tit-for-tat tariffs aimed at helping US industries.

Walz, meanwhile, has pointed to the need to maintain stable trade relations with China, arguing its importance for US farmers who export crops abroad.
Tim Walz lands a zinger on Vance about that couch story - and attacks him for using Hillbilly Elegy to trash his own community

Tim Walz lands a zinger on Vance about that couch story - and attacks him for using Hillbilly Elegy to trash his own community

Tim Walz brutally roasted his Republican counterpart JD Vance and even cracked a couch joke at his expense during his first speech since being named Kamala Harriss running mate.

Walz drew cheers and laughter from the crowd gathered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, when he referenced the Republican vice presidential nominees recent bashing online, telling crowds: I cant wait to debate the guy... if hes willing to get off the couch.

Vance was subject to ridicule after a parody post on X claimed that there was part of his best-selling book Hillbilly Elegy where the Ohio Senator admitted to having relations with a sofa.

The joke was exacerbated by a since-retracted fact-check article by The Associated Press titled No, JD Vance did not have sex with a couch, which prompted a barrage of memes on social media.

Walz couldnt resist jumping on the bandwagon himself on Tuesday night, hitting out at Vances hypocrisy in his book, and blasting his exclusive education and career.

Walz appeared alongside Harris for the first time at a rally in Pennsylvania on Tuesday (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Like all 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, he said.

Thats not what Middle America is. And I got to tell you. I cant wait to debate the guy... That is, if hes willing to get off the couch and show up.

Walz drew cheers and laughter from the huge crowds gathered in Philadeplphia, Pennsylvania, in which he made reference to a recent social media trend about his GOP counterpart JD Vance (AP)

See what I did there? he added, drawing roars of laughter from supporters.

The Minnesota Governor continued the hype later that evening, posting a clip of his zinger to his 450,000 followers on X.

Like all regular people in America's heartland, JD Vance studied at Yale, had his career funded by Silicon Valley billionaires, and wrote a bestseller trashing that community.



Come on.



I can't wait to debate the guythat is, if he's willing to get off the couch and show up. pic.twitter.com/4orv0v2xTZ  Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) August 6, 2024

Walzs remarks prompted another host of new memes. I almost feel bad for JD Vance. Theres no way to cushion those attacks, one user wrote. Tim Walz is savage, wrote another.

Others were enthused by the new match-up, with one writing: Coach Walz vs Couch Vance. Viewers also pointed out that Harris herself appeared to be stifling her laughter in the background while Walz was speaking.

Harris appeared to stifle her laughter after her newly announced running mate Tim Walz made reference to a viral, couch-related scandal involving JD Vance (Screengrab/ CNN)

Oh she wanted to give the couch joke a FULL cackle, one wrote, posting a screenshot of the vice presidents face.

At the rally, Walz also turned his attention to Donald Trump, saying: He froze in the face of the covid crisis. He drove our economy into the ground.

And make no mistake, violent crime was up under Donald Trump  Thats not even counting the crimes he committed.
(Bloomberg) -- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is likely the poorest of the four people on this years major-party presidential tickets with a disclosed net worth of under $1 million, following his selection as Democratic nominee Kamala Harris running mate.

Most Read from Bloomberg

As a former House lawmaker who pushed a federal law tightening disclosures of congressional stock trading in 2012, Walz said at the time he did not own any stocks himself. More than a decade later, he still doesnt, according to his most recent disclosures.

Republican nominee Donald Trump is worth $5.7 billion, ranking 500th on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. His running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, disclosed a net worth between $4.3 million and $10.7 million in his most recent US Senate disclosure.

Vice President Harris has disclosed between $550,000 and $1.1 million in cash in US bank accounts. She also holds between $775,000 and $1.8 million in retirement funds.

Walzs most recent disclosure to the Minnesota Campaign Finance Board listed no stocks, real estate or horse racing interests. Minnesota has a much narrower definition of reportable assets than federal law, however, excluding stocks worth less than $10,000 and any mutual funds or exchange-traded funds.

His congressional disclosures before that show relatively modest and conservative investments befitting his status as a retired teacher and Army National Guard soldier. In his last filing as a member of Congress in 2019, Walz disclosed assets worth between $362,000 and $830,000.

Those numbers included the value of his home, which he ordinarily would not have to disclose. Because Walz and his wife rented out a spare room, however, it was listed as an income-generating asset.

The Walzes sold their Mankato, Minnesota house for $304,000 in 2019 after moving into the governors mansion, according to property records.

Other assets disclosed in 2019 included a college savings plan, a state teacher pension and a whole life insurance policy.

Election to vice president would give Walz a considerable pay bump. He makes $127,629 as governor  the 37th highest paid state chief executive in the country, according to the Council of State Governments. State law allows for a salary of $149,550, but Walz has opted to keep his salary frozen during his tenure in office.

The vice presidents salary is $284,600.

The Harris-Walz campaign did not immediately respond to requests for more information on his holdings. Walz has at least 30 days from Tuesday to file a federal financial disclosure statement.

--With assistance from Bill Allison.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
The Democrats' Carhartt Messiah? "Is Tim Walz the Midwestern Dad Democrats Need?" Ezra Klein titled his recent New York Times podcast interview with Kamala Harris' veep pick. "Tim Walz is the dad an entire generation wish they had instead of the one they lost to Fox News," reads a tweet that has already resonated with some 46,000 people. "In Walz, Harris Sees a Battleground Strategy Dressed in Carhartt," reads a New York Times analysis by Lisa Lerer, referring to the workwear brand. "Walz is going to spend the rest of the campaign hosting daily livestreams explaining to voters how to fix a running toilet, how to check the oil levels on your car, and how to properly patch a hole in your drywall," jokes a politico on X.

"It was mesmerizing in the sense that it's been a while since I've seen a rally like that either on TV or in person," journalist Mike Barnicle told MSNBC, referring to Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz's rally in Pennsylvania yesterday, after Harris had announced the Minnesota governor as her vice-presidential pick. "And watching it, you could just sense the power in the halland it was the power of joy, the power of laughter, the power of hope for the future.It's been a long time since any aspect of American politics has put a smile on anyone's face."

The reception has been warm and cuddly from much of the media. But Tim Walz is not your dad. He's not your handyman. He's not even necessarily that pragmatic of a pick for Harris, who seems to be telegraphing ideological preferencesbigger government with higher taxes and a more expansive welfare state, as well as supplying an olive branch to the progressive far-left. Embracing a more moderate swing-stater like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro might have been a more pragmatic choice.

"My biggest worry about the discourse is that people mash together a few things that are trueMinnesota is in the Midwest, Walz represented a rural district, Walz has a kind of gruff white guy mannerinto a false impression that Tim Walz's gruff white guy manner has made him popular in the rural Midwest despite conventional liberal politics," writes Matthew Yglesias at Slow Boring. "The actual story is that Minnesota is a better-educated, more urban, and more liberal state than Wisconsin, Michigan, or Pennsylvania, so a conventional liberal can do well there without over-performing in the rural Midwest."

The perception of Walz as a folksy Midwestern dad, especially when juxtaposed with Sen. J.D. Vance (ROhio) (whom Walz branded weird, leading to a strange news cycle in which other Democrats kept hopping aboard the bandwagon), is rather titillating to much of the coastal elite news media. The question is whether that perception will actually be shared by swing-state voters.

Walz's actual record: For better or worse, Walz hasover the course of his almost 20 years in politicsembraced quite progressive policies, shifting further left over time. He's a big fan of hiking taxes, both income and gas. He presided over state agencies partnering with all kinds of wasteful and fraudulent organizations, doling out taxpayer dollars to entities that were bad stewards of the funds. He continued to allow this during the pandemic, when he wanted to dish out "hero pay" to so-called frontline workers, which led to some 333,000 people claiming they were eligible when they were in fact not (or, in some cases, outright fraud, such as attempts by, uh, dead people to get checks). The state agency in charge doled out checks anyway, and the whole program became derailed.

During COVID-19, Walz engaged in much the same authoritarianism as his blue-state governor ilk: caps on indoor and outdoor gatherings, mask mandates, COVID snitching hotlines (which the executive order specified could be enforced with 90 days in jail for violators), and a nursing home policy quite similar to New York's.

And what does Minnesota have to show for all this folksy dad governance? An outmigration problem!

"IRS data show that the state loses four households earning more than $200,000 for every three that it gains," notes Cato's Chris Edwards and Ilana Blumsack on their Fiscal Policy Report Card, in which they rate America's governors. Tim Walz earned an "F."

Walz is not even uniquely effective at governing, as some defenders on the left might claim. "The key thing to note about his time as governor is that Democrats won a narrow majority in the Minnesota legislation in the 2022 midterms," writes Yglesias. "Even though Minnesota is a left-of-center state, they hadn't had a Democratic trifecta in a long time. So there were just tons and tons of standard Democratic bills that had been backed up for years, and Walz signed a flurry of legislation. This didn't create the People's Republic of Minnesota or anything, it mostly reflected the fact that the pre-2022 policy status quo in Minnesota was unreasonable conservative relative to the underlying partisanship."

The Walz pick probably won't affect much of anything. Most voters who are less politically engaged, who live in swing states, probably won't care too much or spend that much time looking into Walz's record. But the pick is interesting for what it says about Harristhat she's making a big gesture to the progressive leftand what it says about the mediathat they're oddly hungry for a nice-guy father figure, and may be blinded by their love goggles.

Scenes from New York: Journalist/independent videographer Samuel Seligson has been charged with a hate crime. Authorities say he participated in vandalizing the Brooklyn Heights home of Anne Pasternak, who is the director of the Brooklyn Museum, with red paint. The vandalism accuses her of being a "white-supremacist Zionist." Seligson's attorney, Leena Widdi, says he was acting in his capacity as a journalist. Others allege he's a member of the extremist group antifa and that he has a long history of targeting Jews in their homes. Still others note that Seligson was arrested not in possession of any camera equipment, but rather serving as the lookout for the vandals, and seemingly operating in no journalistic capacity.

"Community organizers have staged protests at the Brooklyn Museum throughout Ms. Pasternak's tenure, which began in 2015," reports The New York Times. "During the Israel-Hamas war, the museum has become a target for pro-Palestinian activists who claim there is a link between wealthy trustees and the military-industrial complex in Israelan accusation that museum officials have denied."

QUICK HITS

I bring you good news and bad. Last night, member of the "squad" Cori Bush, who serves as one of Missouri's representatives in the U.S. House, lost her primary. Unfortunately, Justin Amash lost his Michigan Senate primary as well.

"Some of the best evidence that we still live in a free-market economy is that Big Tech, hated by [former President Donald] Trump, performed very well during his presidency, and Big Oil, hated by Biden, has been performing very well during his," writes Dominic Pino at National Review. "If you can make a bunch of money investing in companies that the president hates, that's a pretty good sign you live in a free country."

The Biden administration has decided to phase out single-use plastic cutlery across all federal government departments and buildings, as if this is the thing that will save the environment.

"After [Hugo] Chavez's death, [Nicolas] Maduro continued to pay lip service to socialismand to blame the United States for all of Venezuela's problemsbut he had no real ideological fervor," writes Reason's Jim Epstein. "'The Terminal Stage of Communism Is a Mafia,' as Martin Gurri recently observed about post-Castro Cuba, and the same insight applies perfectly to Venezuela."

EVERGREEN TWEET:

All the misinformation reporters can go fuck traffic cones.  Mary Katharine Ham (@mkhammer) August 7, 2024

The post Tim Walz Is Not Your Dad appeared first on Reason.com.
Vice President Kamala Harris officially announced her running mate on Tuesday: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a progressive Midwesterner that has already won the hearts of many Democratic voters.

But Walzs past stances on issues considered to be significant this election cycle have not always leaned progressive. And with Israels U.S.-funded military offensive in Gaza entering its 10th month, Americans critical of the Biden administrations unconditional support are pressing the Harris campaign to be forceful in her opposition of the Israeli government if she wants their votes. So far, shes listening.

I think shes shown theres this willingness to shift. Its a truncated timeline, so they obviously have to move very, very quickly. But I think its on her to call us in, to have these conversations, and to also publicly begin talking about these policy shifts, Democratic strategist Rania Batrice told HuffPost on Tuesday. Obviously, thats what were all looking for. Its what were all hoping for. But the only person who can do that is the vice president herself.

Vice President Kamala Harris and her newly announced running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, appear onstage together during a campaign event at Girard College on Tuesday in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Andrew Harnik via Getty Images

Like most mainstream Democrats, Walz has generally been supportive of Israel throughout his political career. As a congressman, he voted in favor of sending billions in unconditional U.S. military aid to Israel, and voted on a resolution that condemned the United Nations for deciding that Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are illegal. He also went on a diplomatic trip to the Middle East, where he met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Walz has also attended conferences held by AIPAC, a wildly influential lobbying group that gives large sums of money to help elect pro-Israel candidates in the U.S. to political office. The governor also once described Israel as a country with a commitment to values of personal freedoms and liberties, surrounded by a pretty tough neighborhood, according to Mark Mellman, chair of the Democratic Majority for Israel PAC, in its endorsement for Walz.

Despite those stances, however, many pro-Palestinian voters are cautiously excited about the prospect of Walz becoming vice president. The governor walked the line during this years nationwide anti-war student protests in response to Israels offensive, supporting the creation of a space where political dissent or political rallying can happen while denouncing any acts of intimidation against Jewish or Muslim students.

Most notably, Walz expressed empathy and understanding when about 20% of Minnesotas Democratic voters cast their primary ballots earlier this year for uncommitted, a movement where Americans showed their opposition to the Biden administrations Gaza policy by engaging in a protest vote. The nationwide movement  which was most concentrated in Michigan and Minnesota  resulted in 30 uncommitted delegates for this months DNC.

These are voters that are deeply concerned, as we all are. The situation in Gaza is intolerable, and I think trying to find a solution  and asking us to get to a cease-fire, Walz told CNN in March. Thats what theyre asking to be heard, and thats what they should be doing.

We start bringing these folks back in, and we listen to what theyre saying, he continued. Thats a healthy thing thats happening here.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, speaking on CNN, on uncommitted:



They are asking to be heard and that's what they should be doing Their message is clear that they think this is an intolerable situation and that we can do more. And I think the president is hearing that. https://t.co/Tw8P0lcSikpic.twitter.com/ADpkdB30BC  Jacob N. Kornbluh (@jacobkornbluh) March 6, 2024

Many of the pro-Palestinian groups said that theyre cautiously supporting Walz for that exact quality  he is someone who will listen and be open to shifting perspective.

I think we see him as somebody who we can work with. Is he perfect? No. Is he somebody that were going to agree with on absolutely everything? No, Batrice said. But is he somebody that is clearly thoughtful and nuanced, and will sit down with us and learn and take the time to educate himself and make decisions that are rooted in humanity  and he always kind of uses the term about us all being neighbors  we see that opportunity with him.

A spokesperson for the Harris-Walz campaign did not respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

Progressives also see Walz as a significantly better choice than Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, the other potential choice for running mate. Shapiro, a more moderate Democrat compared to Walz, faced heat for comparing the campus protesters to the Ku Klux Klan. He also volunteered on a military base in Israel, and wrote an article in reaction to the Oslo Accords arguing Palestinians are too battle-minded to be able to establish a peaceful homeland of their own.

Asma Mohammed, an activist with Uncommitted Minnesota, addresses the media during a watch party during the presidential primary in Minneapolis on Super Tuesday, on March 5. Stephen Maturen/AFP via Getty Images

Some pro-Palestinian groups and Uncommitted delegates stated that they will fully mobilize for the Democratic ticket if Harris and Walz make it clear that they would stop sending U.S. weapons for Israel to use on Palestinians, and demand a permanent cease-fire. And the presumptive Democratic presidential and vice presidential nominees are so far giving those voters some hope that the existing shift in rhetoric will transfer into action.

The Biden administrations unconditional support for Israels 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, multiple pro-Palestinian groups led by the IMEU Policy Project said in a joint statement.

Today was another sign that our collective power can create a historic shift in the Democratic Party, it continued. Away from militarism and impunity for Israels war crimes, and toward peace, justice and equality for all people  including the Palestinian people.
As tropical storm Debby approaches the North Carolina border, the National Weather Service warns that the Triad is expected to receive some of the heaviest rainfall in the state.

In response to the storm, President Joe Biden on Wednesday approved an emergency declaration for North Carolina and authorized the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to manage all disaster relief efforts. Meanwhile, Gov. Roy Cooper activated the State Emergency Response and swift water rescue teams, as well as over 350 members from the North Carolina National Guard.

We expect this storm to continue its slow, gradual approach, bringing multiple days of heavy rainfall and the potential for widespread and severe flash flooding, said Cooper in a press release.

We encourage all North Carolinians to closely monitor weather especially in low-lying areas, have reliable ways to receive weather alerts and information, and to have an emergency plan for your household.

Triad rainfall projections, what to expect

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Raleigh, the Triad is expected to receive approximately 4 to 6 inches of rain from Wednesday morning through Saturday morning. The heaviest rainfall is expected to begin after midnight Wednesday and continue through Thursday evening, tapering off around 8 p.m.

Youre probably not going to get into that heaviest rain in the Triad region until around sunrise or 6 a.m.  but then it just stays put, and comes in batches and waves all throughout the morning, Nick Petro, warning coordination meteorologist at the National Weather Service said during the live weather briefing on Wednesday.

On Monday, the National Weather Service initially estimated that the Triad would receive 3 to 5 inches of rain, but this estimate has since been updated due to various factors such as the storms track and speed through the region.

The amounts are going to be tweaked almost continually. Those numbers might change again and again. the office noted.

Flash flooding and power outage risks

Meteorologists, including Charles Konrad, a professor of geography at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, have warned of flash flooding in the area due to Debby.

The key factor, Konrad explained, is the rate of rainfall.

For example, even if the Triad receives only three inches of rain, if a significant portion of that falls within a short period, it can lead to flooding in urban areas. This is because the drainage systems may not be able to handle the volume of water.

And there are pockets in the Triad that are relatively wet, where their soils are quite moist, and therefore are not able to hold as much rain, Konrad added.

The National Weather Service has also warned of power outages in the Triad, emphasizing that the risk of trees falling and causing power disruptions increases with the amount of rainfall.

Duke Energy spokesperson Ben Williamson agreed, noting that the most common cause of power outages is trees falling on power lines.

We feel confident that we have the resources that we can try to get this [repair] done as quickly as possible, he said.

According to Williamson, the company has increased its resources in preparation for the storm with 7,500 line technicians, vegetation workers and support personnel from both Duke Energy and contract partners from across the state.

Williamson also outlined the prioritization approach for addressing power outages: the process begins with situations posing immediate threats to public safety or major roadways. Next in priority are critical infrastructures such as hospitals, police stations, and fire departments. After that, the focus shifts to restoring power to large transmission lines to cover broad areas, followed by smaller distribution lines.

Even if its the basics of making sure youve got batteries in the house, youve charged up your cell phones and your computers, and your family knows how are you all going to communicate and check in on your family members  make sure that youre prepared for an outage if it unfortunately occurs, Williamson added.

The Triads playbook

In a press release issued on Tuesday, the city of Winston-Salem announced preparations for the storm, including clearing stormwater catch basins and extending CityLink hours to manage potential heavy rains and flooding. City crews are on standby to handle debris and downed trees, while Vegetation Management will be available around the clock.

In Greensboro, departments are taking measures such as deploying equipment to flood-prone areas, inspecting creeks and culverts, and pre-staging traffic-control devices.

Forsyth County residents should stay informed during severe weather by using a battery-powered radio for weather and evacuation information and should know evacuation routes in their community, Tuesdays statement by the city of Winston-Salem reads.

When asked to evacuate, residents should leave the area immediately.

The impact of climate change

Scientists and researchers have observed that climate change influences storm patterns, leading to slower-moving and wetter storms.

Although it is difficult to attribute the slow movement of a specific storm like Debby directly to climate change, the overall trend of slower-moving storms aligns with broader climate patterns.

Corey Davis, assistant state climatologist at the North Carolina State Climate Office, and Konrad have identified shifting ridging patterns and weakening summertime circulation as factors influenced by climate change.

As the climate warms, ridging patterns in the atmosphere are shifting northward. These high-pressure systems affect storm movement by creating conditions that can slow storms down, as seen with Debby. The higher atmospheric conditions that control storm speed are becoming more sluggish due to these shifting ridges.

Moreover, the weakening of summertime circulation patterns in the tropical atmosphere, also driven by climate change, is exacerbating this trend  Debbys slow movement is a result of encountering weak steering currents and being obstructed by a slow-moving cold front to the north and high pressure to the west.

The other consequence of climate change is that its making these storms wetter. When you combine that with slower movement, that can make for big increases in rainfall totals, Davis said.
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Vice President Kamala Harris chose a popular politician from a border state as her running mate for the Democratic presidential ticket in November, just not that border.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz emerged as Harris' pick on Tuesday, ending weeks of speculation over whom she would choose from a pack of Democratic leaders mostly from battleground states, including Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz.

As governor, Walz has led a progressive state government, pushing several immigration priorities through a Democratic-controlled Legislature that expanded state services to undocumented residents.

That includes expanding drivers' licenses in 2023 to all Minnesota residents, regardless of immigration status, joining 20 other U.S. states and territories that also provide drivers' licenses to all residents. The move was expected to benefit approximately 81,000 undocumented immigrants in the state.

"Ensuring drivers in our state are licensed and carry insurance makes the roads safer for all Minnesotans," Walz said at the time.

Additional changes during that legislative session included expanding in-state tuition to all low-income Minnesota students, including undocumented youth. The Legislature also allowed undocumented immigrants to access MinnesotaCare, the state's publicly subsidized health insurance program for low-income residents.

At the federal level, Walz has voiced support for providing Dreamers, undocumented immigrants brought into the country as children, a legal pathway to remain in the United States. As a member of Congress, he criticized many of former President Donald Trump's border and immigration policies. Those criticisms ranged from family separations at the border to the construction of physical barriers.

Border policies: Immigration is a top election issue in the Trump vs. Harris race. Here's what they say

Earlier this year, the Minnesota governor backed an executive action President Joe Biden issued to stem migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border. He also supports a bipartisan border agreement, negotiated in part by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz. Trump opposed the bill, and it failed to gain traction in Congress.

Walz spoke to CNN earlier this month casting the blame for the bill's failure at Trump.

"My neighbors, whether Republican or Democrats, don't want to demonize our neighbors, they just want a safe border," Walz told Anderson Cooper on AC360 on Aug. 1. "She's (Harris) got a plan, the Lankford-Sinema bill was a big key to it, and Donald Trump doesn't want it. He thrives on chaos."

Reactions to the announcement of Walz as Harris' vice presidential candidate fell along ideological lines among border and immigration advocates.

Bisbee Mayor Ken Budge, who last month endorsed Harris along with several other Arizona border mayors, said picking Walz was good news for border communities.

"Walz understands the needs of border communities and supports common sense solutions that work, like the bipartisan border deal that wouldve made a big difference in Arizona," Budge told The Arizona Republic in a written statement.

The Trump campaign, which has once again made border issues a centerpiece of Trump's candidacy, said Harris' decision to choose Walz as her running mate reinforced their message that she was running a far left and "dangerously liberal" campaign that sought to facilitate migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border. They accused Walz of supporting sanctuary city policies.

Chad Wolf, who served as acting Homeland Security secretary under the Trump administration and is now the executive director of the Trump-aligned America First Policy Institute, said Americans want leaders who will be tough on crime.

"VP Harris and Gov. Walz's record on supporting law enforcement and reducing crime proves they do not prioritize the safeguarding of American communities," he said on X, formerly Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Tim Walz pushed for progressive immigration policies as governor
Democratic vice presidential candidate Gov. Tim Walz at a rally in Philadelphia on Aug. 6, 2024. Credit - Tom WilliamsCQ-Roll Call, Inc/Getty Images

China clearly holds a special place in Tim Walzs heart: The Minnesota governor and Democratic vice presidential candidate speaks some Chinese. Hes traveled there some 30 times, including for his honeymoon. And hes often spoken about the country and worked on legislation related to it.

But since he was announced as Kamala Harris running mate on Tuesday, Walzs China ties have come under scrutiny from critics who have painted him as sympathetic to Beijing as politicians on both sides of the aisle in Washington seemingly compete to appear tougher on the U.S.s biggest geopolitical rival.

Read More: Where Tim Walz Stands on the Issues

Make America Great Again Inc., a PAC supporting the Republican ticket of former President Donald Trump and his running mate Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, posted on social media a video clip of Walz saying I dont fall into the category that China necessarily needs to be an adversarial relationship, I totally disagree.

Tim Walz doesnt see China as a problem, James Hutton, a former Assistant Secretary at the Department of Veterans Affairs during the Trump administration, posted on X. Communist China is very happy with @GovTimWalz as Kamalas VP pick, posted Richard Grenell, former U.S. ambassador to Germany and acting Director of National Intelligence during the Trump administration. No one is more pro-China than Marxist Walz.

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) posted: Tim Walz owes the American people an explanation about his unusual, 35-year relationship with Communist China.

Others, however, see Walzs experience with China less as a liability and more as an asset. So he knows a lot about it. Thats great, former CIA and NSA director Michael Hayden, who worked under Democratic and Republican administrations, posted in response to observations about Walzs history with China.

Taiwan-based political science professor Lev Nachman also characterized Walzs experience with China as positive, posting that it means he is likely to approach U.S.-[China] relations with a much more nuanced point of view, one that humanizes Chinese people and does not equate them to their government.

That aligns with how Walz himself has described his stance on the country for which he has been consistently critical on a number of issues, particularly human rights, while also expressing hope and optimism about its people and their potential. If someone tells you theyre an expert on China theyre probably not telling you the truth because its a complex country, but its critically important for us, Walz said in the same 2016 interview that the Trump-supporting PAC excerpted. I think we need to stand firm on what theyre doing in the South China Sea, he said, referencing one of the many fronts of the U.S.-China rivalry, but theres many areas of cooperation that we can work on.

While reports in Chinese state media noted Walzs frequent visits to China and past advocacy for fostering cultural exchanges, there were no mentions of his human rights-related criticisms. And on Chinese social media, reaction has been mixed. If Tim Walz didnt have this connection with China, Harris might be tougher on China, Qiu Zhenhai, political commentator and founder of the Hong Kong-based think tank Center for Globalization Hong Kong, said in a post on Weibo, adding that Walzs dynamic with Harris would need further observation. Another user cautioned: Isnt it too naive to think that, just because he taught in China and had his honeymoon there, he would be dovish towards China?

Heres what to know about Walzs history withand stances onChina.

Visiting China

Walzs first international flight was to China. As a fresh college graduate in 1989, as a part of the first government sanctioned groups of American educators to teach in China through a program at Harvard University, according to his congressional biography, Walz traveled to Guangdong province, where he taught at a local high school. It was the same year that the Tiananmen Square massacre saw the Chinese government brutally crack down on pro-democracy protesters.

I remember waking up and seeing the news on June 4 that the unthinkable had happened, he told reporters in 2014 at a White House event commemorating the Tiananmen Square massacre, adding that the event prompted many of his American teaching colleagues to leave China. I felt it was more important than ever to go, to make sure that story was told, and to let Chinese people know we were standing there, we were with them.

China was coming, and thats the reason that I went, Walz explained to the Hill in 2007 of his decision to spend the year in a country that was just starting to open up. He said his Chinese students gave him the nickname Fields of China in reference to the vastness of his kindness. (They also called him big-nosed one and foreign devil, which he said were not meant as insults.)

When Walz returned to the U.S. in 1990, he told a local Nebraskan newspaper that the Chinese he met are such kind, generous, capable people and that they simply lacked proper leadership.

The Tiananmen Square massacre clearly resonated with Walz, who got married to Minnesotan fellow teacher Gwen Whipple on its fifth anniversary in 1994. He wanted to have a date hell always remember, Gwen told the Scottsbluff Star-Herald before their wedding. Together, the couple had founded Educational Travel Adventures, a company that organized annual summer excursions to China for American high school students from 1994 until 2003. (Their honeymoon doubled as one such excursion with dozens of students.)

Walzs frequent trips to China have fueled unfounded speculation that he was a spy or nefariously linked to the Chinese statea claim that was amplified in a Fox News segment by host Jesse Watters on Tuesday: Im sure he paid for all those trips himself on a teachers salary, Watters said facetiously. Walz spent his honeymoon in China. Hes being groomed by the Chinese, Watters asserted. Now, if I was the FBI, Id do a background check just to be safe.

Criticizing Chinas record on human rights

While Walz has spoken fondly of his time in China, during his political career, which began with a run for Congress in 2006, he has both publicly condemned Chinas human rights record and backed House resolutions expressing concern on issues from political persecutions to alleged organ harvesting in China.

From 2007 to 2018, Walz served on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), which monitors legal and human rights developments in China. Due to his years of work on China issuesand his teaching stint in GuangdongWalz was once described as a stalwart on the commission by then-chairman Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio).

Walz has consistently supported political freedom in China, including cosponsoring a 2009 resolution recognizing the Tiananmen Square massacres 20th anniversary as well as another resolution supporting human rights activists Huang Qi and Tan Zuoren, who were jailed by authorities after investigating the collapse of school buildings in the devastating 2008 Sichuan earthquake.

As international concern grew around Chen Guangcheng, a blind lawyer and activist who was detained after he exposed abuses by local officials, Walz testified at a CECC hearing in 2011: I applaud the accomplishments of the Chinese people and recognize that some in the Chinese government advocate for greater rule of law. But, we cannot believe China is serious about the rule of law while Chen Guangcheng and his family are being forcefully held and abused.

We cannot believe China is serious about human rights while it flagrantly violates its own laws and its international human rights commitments, he emphasized.

Walz also called for the release of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo, and, after Liu died a political prisoner in 2017, Walz cosponsored a resolution to honor Lius legacy.

In 2015, Walz co-sponsored a resolution expressing concern about reports of Chinese state-sanctioned organ harvesting from prisoners of consciencean issue that remains of concern to the CECC and Congress.

I think the idea was, with a free-market economy, we would see a more opening of the Chinese grip on social life and on human rights, Walz said at a 2016 congressional hearing on human rights in China. That simply has not occurred.

More recently, hes also criticized China for not opposing Russias war in Ukraine. We need to cooperate with China on issues such as climate change and agricultural production, he told Japanese news outlet Nikkei in an interview last year, but Im disappointed with Chinas recent performanceon the Ukraine issue, they are on Russias side.

Touching Chinas touchy topics: Tibet, Hong Kong, and Taiwan

As a teacher, Walz has made understanding totalitarianism an important part of his studies and lessons. He earned a Master of Science degree in educational leadership from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 2001, according to Politico. His thesis, according to Jewish Telegraphic Agency, was about genocide. And in a 2008 New York Times article, his former students described how he encouraged them to analyze the factors that can lead countries toward ethnic cleansing, something China faces accusations of today when it comes to minority communities, including Tibetans.

Since he was a lawmaker, Walz has been vocal about his support for Tibetan autonomya movement led by the Dalai Lama, the exiled leader whom Chinese authorities have long accused of inciting separatism and unrest in the Himalayan autonomous region of Tibet.

#tbt to 2 years ago, a life-changing lunch with @DalaiLama. We talked about humility, patience, and compassion. I try to embody these values every day in my work. pic.twitter.com/UnaEyy0GOI  Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) March 15, 2018

Besides meeting with the Dalai Lama, which Walz once described as life-changing, Walz has called attention to Tibetan political prisoners held by Chinese authorities, and in 2016, he welcomed Lobsang Sangay, Prime Minister of Tibets government-in-exile, to his congressional office for a meeting with Minnesota high school students.

Walz was also part of a 2015 congressional delegation that visited Tibet, where he described being in the deepest enclaves of Chinese government with some of their highest level officials having a debate about the Dalai Lama.

Walz has long maintained the importance of dialogue and described the one he had then as healthy and one that absolutely has to happen during a press conference after the visit.

This relationship [with China] is too critically important; its too critically important on trade; its too critically important on climate change; its too critically important on national security, issues of containment of terrorism and everything else thats involved.

Throughout his political career, Walz has also expressed support for the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong and its proponents.

In 2016in the wake of Hong Kongs Umbrella Revolution but before the widespread pro-democracy protests that swept the city in 2019Walz warned fellow lawmakers during a congressional hearing that Hong Kong and the basic rule of law that was drawn out is under assault.

In 2017, Walz posted on X a photo with prominent then-student activist Joshua Wong, who has been repeatedly imprisoned in Hong Kong over a slew of cases related to his activism. Political prosecutions cant silence the spirit of self-determination, Walz said, extending his support to Wong. In another post, he called Wong a true champion for democracy in China.

Met with Joshua Wong today, a true champion for democracy in China. pic.twitter.com/qlAz6pJHzT  Fmr. Rep. Tim Walz (@RepTimWalz) November 16, 2016

Jeffrey Ngo, an activist-historian who is a senior policy and research fellow with the Washington-based Hong Kong Democracy Council, said in a post on X on Tuesday that Walz had been instrumental in keeping the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act afloat before it was passed by Congress in 2019. We knocked on every door when the [bill] lacked momentum. Only Walz answered his: At its absolute lowest point in 201718, he was the sole House Democrat willing to keep co-sponsoring the billseemingly a fruitless endeavorwith [New Jersey Republican Rep. Christopher] Smith, Ngo recounted.

While Walz has not explicitly expressed a position on the politics of Taiwan, the self-governing island that Beijing asserts sovereignty over and that the Biden administration has vowed to defend in the case of an invasion, Minnesota has maintained good relations with Taipei throughout his governorship.

In 2021, when a train-truck collision in Hualien county left dozens dead, Walz reached out to the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Organization, the islands de facto embassy, to express his condolences. He also met with members of Taiwans agriculture industry in 2022 to boost the trade partnership with Minnesota.

Focusing on trade and the South China Sea

In a 2016 interview with Agri-Pulse, a Washington-based agriculture news site, then-Rep. Walz said that the U.S. should care about and stand firmly against Chinas actions in the South China Seathe hotly-contested waterway that China claims virtually all of and has engaged in increasingly hostile confrontations with U.S. allies over.

It is our business what happens in the South China Sea because freedom of navigation to move our crops and to move our products is critically important to our economy as well as our national security, Walz said at the time.

That same year, Walz co-sponsored the POSTURE Act opposing military personnel cuts, arguing that the number of U.S. troops should be maintained to deter security challenges including Russia, Islamist extremism, and Chinas island expansion in the South China Sea. Those adversaries who think that this is the time to do something with this Nation need to be sent a strong message that we are as strong as ever, he said during a House session, urging support for the bill.

Trade has long been a key area of focus for Walz, who has supported maintaining, with regulations, a healthy U.S.-China commerce relationship. Even before he became a politician, when he was a sixth-grade social studies teacher in Nebraska, Walz explained to his students who he helped exchange letters with children in China, according to a 1991 local news article, why their governments were at odds: an unfair trade balance. The Chinese government wants us to buy what they sell, but wont buy what we sell, he said.

As a member of the CECC, Walz participated in discussions of issues like Chinas compliance with international trade rules and how that relates to U.S. interests. Describing the work of the CECC, Walz said in 2016 that the groups focus was that well trade with China but they have to play by the rules, both from an environmental, from a fair trade, and also from a human rights perspective.

And in 2019, as governor of Minnesota, he publicly urged then-President Trump to end the trade war with China, arguing that it was hindering our economys growth and weakening our countrys prosperity. Minnesotas agricultural sector had been hit hard by a slump in exports to China of commodities like soy beans and pork.

Theres just no substitute for 1.6 billion consumers, who are hungry to get our China trade negotiations normalized, he later told reporters after a trip to Japan, where he said that the slack left by falling Chinese demand was too much for Minnesotas other trade partners to pick up. There's not enough market in the rest of the world to absorb our capacity.

This is a guy who has proposed shipping more manufacturing jobs to China, Vance said Tuesday, reacting to Harris selection of Walz as her running mate. Vance has argued that Walzs progressive energy policies and ambitious climate goals will send manufacturing jobs to China.

Walz, for his part, has tried to link his climate efforts to domestic job creation, telling TIME last year that the surest way to get people to buy in is to create a job that pays well in their community.

In the same 1991 newspaper detailing Walzs pen pal program, Walz explained his philosophy on distinguishing between other nations policies and people, and the importance of interacting on a person-to-person levelan approach that U.S.-China diplomacy experts largely support. Thats the reason we study geography and history, to learn about other people. Geography and history are not just about wars, dead people and old buildings, Walz said. The best way to study about people is to hear them tell what it is like where they live.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Amanda Stewart has never voted for a Democratic presidential candidate in her life. Shes a lifelong Republican and a suburban mom in Tempe, Arizona. After Jan. 6, she vowed she would not support former President Donald Trump again, despite voting for him twice. And over the past two weeks  after hearing Vice President Kamala Harris pitch to voters and being repulsed by Trumps racist tirades against her  she was warming to the idea of voting for the Democratic ticket.

Then Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate.

I was really disappointed, Stewart said. I was really hoping one of the presidential candidates would be making a more significant move to the center, where I think most of the country is.

To Stewart, the Walz pick is a signal that Harris is trying to energize the progressive flank of her party, not engage the swath of moderate and conservative voters who wont vote for Trump. Her choice was not a good signal to me, Stewart said. She needs to earn people from the center.

In the hours after the Walz news broke, that sentiment was repeated by swing-state voters across the country, who told the Deseret News that Harris decision left them underwhelmed.

As a Georgia voter, Im beyond disappointed, said Emily Matthews, a Republican who voted for President Joe Biden in 2020 and Evan McMullin in 2016. This is a signal that Harris is willing to bow to the left flank of her party and not stand up for truth.

In the two weeks since Harris assumed the role of Democrats presumptive nominee, she seemed to be making plays for moderate or conservative voters. She has softened on some of her progressive policy stances. She launched the Republicans for Harris initiative and paraded endorsements from some Republican officeholders.

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speak at a campaign rally in Philadelphia, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. | Joe Lamberti

But the selection of Walz  a former U.S. National Guard member and high school teacher  is seen as a deviation from that effort to many conservative-leaning undecided voters. During his two terms as Minnesota governor, Walz has championed a progressive agenda, including protecting abortion rights, providing universal free school lunches, legalizing recreational marijuana and signing shield laws, which protect individuals who enter Minnesota for abortions or with gender dysphoria from legal consequences in their home state.

Walz has also been criticized for his handling of the Black Lives Matter protests that rocked Minnesota in 2020 after George Floyds death in Minneapolis.

When the 2020 riots hit, I was living alone in Atlanta and terrified, Matthews said. No matter how righteous your cause is, making vulnerable neighbors live in fear is so deeply unrighteous. Walzs association and weakness with the BLM movement in Minnesota speaks volumes to sensible voters who, in the interest of our country, were willing to cross lines and vote for a Democrat this year.

Gary Nelson, an independent voter in Payson, Arizona, who forms part of the Republican Voters Against Trump initiative, said he views the Walz pick as positive. But he acknowledges that Walz might alienate moderate or conservative voters.

For people who really follow the issues, (Walz) is really progressive, Nelson said. Hes not a moderate Democrat. Thats clear.

Were there better alternatives to capture centrist or conservative voters? Several mentioned Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, one of the candidates Harris interviewed to be her running mate, as their preferred choice. Tom Evslin, a Republican voter in Stowe, Vermont, was among them. I was hoping she would move to the unoccupied center, Evslin, who co-chaired Haleys primary campaign in Vermont, said. But shes moving to the left the way Trump is moving to the right.

Shapiros candidacy for the vice president slot may have been torpedoed by progressive Democrats who disliked his policy positions on Israel and school choice.

I liked the things the left doesnt like about Shapiro, Evslin said.

Walz might appeal to the middle by trying to come across as Americas dad, Nelson said. If the other side is all doom-and-gloom, and Walz can come across as confident and also joyful, that helps folks.

But for many moderate or conservative voters, who hoped Harris running mate pick would serve as an ideological olive branch, Walz falls short. Im sure hes a lovely person. Im sure he is, Stewart, the Tempe voter, said. But he is very ideological. Thats not what the center wants right now.
By Bianca Flowers and Disha Raychaudhuri

(Reuters) - Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's selection as the Democratic vice presidential contender has thrust his handling of racial justice protests following the 2020 murder of George Floyd back into the spotlight, drawing both criticism and praise for his state's response during one of the most tumultuous periods concerning race relations in U.S. history.

As Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris' running mate, Walz's actions in the aftermath of Floyd's killing by a white Minneapolis police officer are being criticized by allies of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and far-right pundits who say he was too slow to mobilize law enforcement to stop looting, arson and violence that accompanied protests in Minneapolis.

Meanwhile, supporters have praised him for being instrumental in prosecuting the officers involved in Floyd's murder.

Walz and his team have said they dealt with the issues as best they could, including by deploying the National Guard. The two-term governor acknowledged his decision to delay deploying the National Guard and called the city's response an "abject failure," during a press conference a few days after protests gripped the Twin Cities and the greater Minneapolis area, causing extensive damage to buildings, businesses, and a police precinct that was overrun by rioters and set ablaze.

A Republican-authored report out of the states Senate said Walz failed to distinguish between rioters and demonstrators and repeatedly underestimated the severity of the situation, concluding Walz was "not willing to do what was necessary to stop the rioting right away because he was having a philosophical debate about whether the use of force should be used to stop violence."

But Walz has been applauded by some of the nation's leading civil rights advocates, who noted they believe Walz's decision to have Minnesota's state attorney general lead the prosecution in the case helped result in the conviction of former police officer Derek Chauvin, who was convicted of murder and sentenced to more than 20 years in prison. Floyd died after Chauvin kneeled on his neck for several minutes.

"We don't want a guy who's wildly radical -- we want someone with an open mind, he has shown that with how he addressed police brutality in his own state," said Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network, in an interview with Reuters.

Win With Black Women, the organization that has mobilized a groundswell of support behind Harris' candidacy, noted Walz has prioritized violence prevention programs and police reforms, including restrictions on no-knock warrants and a chokehold ban.

"Governor Walzs tenure has also been marked by his steadfast commitment to advancing social justice and protecting vulnerable communities and communities of color," said Jotaka Eaddy, founder of Win With Black Women, adding the governor demonstrated "effective governance" during critical times.

Both Harris and Walz have faced scrutiny for their stances on policing: Harris for being perceived as too tough on crime during her time as California's district attorney, and Walz for not being tough enough.

Despite the criticism, experts argue it will be challenging for Republicans to attack Walz due to his partisan appeal.

"It's really hard to pin down Tim Walz. He has significant support from conservative Republicans in Minnesota, including Trump supporters - at the same time he has enormous support from the left because of his actions over the past two years," said Leah Wright Rigueur, a history professor at Johns Hopkins University.

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.

Harris's choice of Walz as a running mate is seen by some strategists as striking the right balance, given Walz's relatable background as a teacher and gun owner, which resonates with centrist and rural American voters.

"I think he offers a little something for everyone," said California delegate and civil rights attorney Areva Martin. "He has shown the ability to win elections in traditional red states. We know that many rural white voters defected to Donald Trump - we now have an opportunity, those voters are back in play."

(Reporting by Bianca Flowers in Chicago, Disha Raychaudhuri in Washington D.C. and Jarrett Renshaw in Philadelphia; Editing by Kat Stafford and Chris Reese)
When Max Kenner met Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz's wife Gwen more than a decade ago, he immediately knew hed found an ally. A former teacher like her then-Congressman husband, Gwen Walz, wanted to know everything about Kenner's initiative to educate prisoners in New York state.

And now that Tim Walz has been picked by Vice President Kamala Harris as her running mate in her bid for the White House, there could be a member of the second family with the greatest commitment yet to prison education.

Kenner founded the Bard Prison Initiative in 1999 as an undergrad at Bard College, a liberal arts college located in the Hudson Valley, after a 1994 federal ban on Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated students and a 1995 New York state ban on Tuition Assistance Program decimated in-prison education.

Over the past decade, Kenner met with Walz numerous times to discuss access to higher education in prison, he said.

She was a devoted Midwestern public school teacher who approached education without prejudice or presumption about what kind of students might achieve what kinds of things and a real optimism for all kinds of students, Kenner recalled. She also had a real frustration, or even feeling of disappointment, of how much we've failed in this country to create real educational opportunities for so many people, particularly access to college.

ST PAUL, MN - AUGUST 14: Rep. Tim Walz stands on stage at an election night party with his wife, Gwen Walz, son, Gus Walz, and daughter Hope Walz on August 14, 2018 in St Paul, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

With Gwen Walz as a "champion" of higher education opportunities for incarcerated people, that became a major part of Governor Walz's criminal justice agenda, said Kenner.

As first lady of Minnesota, she toured state prisons, held regular calls with leading Corrections Department officials on strategic planning, chaired a task force on recidivism and helped recruit an assistant commissioner to install a new college curriculum behind prison walls.

I think its a crucial conversation to have, Gwen Walz said in an interview with Minnesota Public Radio in 2019. Im convinced that people are looking for ways to address all kinds of different issues within corrections and within criminal justice.

On such program in Minnesota is the TREC (Transformation and Reentry Through Education and Community), a collaboration between Minneapolis College, Metro State University, University of Minnesota, and Lino Lakes Correctional Facility that was started in 2021.

In an interview with PBS in 2019, she summed up her motivation to help educate incarcerated people this way:

"Education is transformational. And I believe that in every sense of the word," she said. And if we're going to solve problems, we have to look at real ways to solve problems. And education is a real predictor of not going back to prison."

According to the Bard Prison Initiative, recidivism is less than 4% for all students who are enrolled, and 2.5% for graduates.

Walz was governor in 2020 when the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer sparked months of racial justice protests nationwide. He has been criticized for his handling of the riots in the initial days by Republicans, who say he didn't act fast enough to deploy the National Guard. In 2023, Walz signed into law a major criminal justice reform bill including elimination of juvenile life without parole, the restriction of probation terms to five years or less and the creation of an Office of Restorative Practices.

Gwen Walz, whose first public event as first lady of Minnesota was a rally for restoring voting rights for people convicted of felonies after theyd served their sentences, is widely viewed as a close politcial advisor to the governor. She even keeps an office in the Minnesota State Capitol -- a first for a first spouse in the state.

Second gentleman Doug Emhoff, Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, Democratic vice presidential candidate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and his wife Gwen Walz..

On Tuesday, after he was introduced by Harris as her running mate at a rally in Philadelphia, Walz told the crowd he couldn't wait for America to get to know his wife, a 29-year public school educator.

"Don't ever underestimate teachers," he said.

Restoration of pell grant for incarcerated students

From 1999 to 2020, all college programs in New York prisons through Bard were funded privately and the initiative was limited in scope due to financial constraints.

ST PAUL, MN - AUGUST 14: Rep. Tim Walz (D-MN) and his wife, Gwen Walz, celebrate while entering his election night party on August 14, 2018 in St Paul, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

In 2020, Congress under the Trump administration reinstated Pell grants for incarcerated people enabling a wider adoption of the program nationwide.

According to a RAND Corporation study, inmates who participate in correctional education programs had a 43% lower chance of recidivating than those who did not.

There was a real bipartisan consensus on the issue, Kenner said. The restoration of Pell for people in prison made real educational opportunity possible in prisons in New York, Minnesota, and red and blue states all across the country.

Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY. You can follow her on X, formerly Twitter, @SwapnaVenugopal

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Gwen Walz, Tim's wife, advocates for college education in prison
MARION COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE)  A Marion County woman has been sentenced to more than four years in prison after she pleaded guilty to defrauding Tennessee and three other states for COVID-19 unemployment benefits between 2020 and 2021.

According to the Department of Justice, Evelyn Blevins, 48, of South Pittsburg, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft while she was involved in an fraud scheme targeting COVID-19 unemployment benefits in Tennessee, Alabama, Pennsylvania and California. Blevins was sentenced to 51 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.

Reports: Checks stolen from Maryville mail used to steal $81,000

The DOJ explained that between June 2020 and August 2021, Blevins and others devised a scheme in which she acquired personal information from others and used it to make mass online applications for unemployment insurance relief that was set aside for people affected by the pandemic. The states then mailed debit cards to addresses in East Tennessee, and Blevins received a portion of the funds.

In total, Blevins was reportedly responsible for the fraudulent distribution of nearly $110,000 of the more than $550,000 obtained in the scheme. Blevins has been ordered to pay $109,683 in restitution to the Tennessee and California Departments of Labor, and she will also forfeit the same amount to the United States.

Tennessee choice lanes to have minimum speed limits, prices that vary based on traffic

The defendant selfishly sought to take advantage of federal and state efforts to provide relief to those most harmed by the COVID pandemic, said United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton, III. We remain committed to partnering with all law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute those who steal from federal relief plan programs, depriving others who are most in need.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
On Aug. 7, 1942, U.S. forces invaded Guadalcanal in the first U.S. offensive of World War II.

The Japanese occupied Guadalcanal, as well as other locations in the strategically important Solomon Islands. Operation Watchtower was the codename for the surprise invasion by the Americans and would become the first time U.S. forces truly began to understand the ferocity of the Japanese Empires soldiers.

During the seven months of the Guadalcanal campaign, 60,000 U.S. Marines and soldiers killed about 20,000 of the 31,000 Japanese troops on the island.

The main objective of the fighting was a tiny airstrip that the Japanese were building at the western end of Guadalcanal, a speck of land in the Solomon Islands. The airstrip, later named Henderson Field, would become an important launching point for Allied air attacks during the Pacific island-hopping campaign.

Henderson Field  Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands  US Navy photo

It took months of fighting and a significant loss of warships on both sides, but the U.S. Marines and Navy successfully secured a Japanese retreat.

Platoon Sergeant John Basilone, USMC. USMC Photo

During the campaign, Sgt. John Basilone became the first Marine awarded the Medal of Honor in World War II and Operation Watchtower decimated Japans elite group of naval aviators. While Midway and Iwo Jima get most of the glory as turning points where America got an upper hand on the Japanese, it was at Guadalcanal that Marine, Navy, and Army aviators took out elite Japanese air crews, allowing America to achieve air superiority more easily in future battles. The island itself became a launching point for the American military to move north, crawling their way up to the Japanese homeland.
Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett stepped down as chairman Wednesday as a new drinking accusation emerged.

He remains on the commission and said he remains "committed to serving my constituents and fulfilling my duties with dedication and professionalism."

The new accusation involves a party in Oklahoma City last year. Hiett drove drunk from the party after refusing offers of help, according to two eyewitness accounts.

Both witnesses are employees of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.

They told The Oklahoman in interviews Tuesday that he didn't stop for a stop sign after leaving Broadway 10 Bar & Chophouse on June 21, 2023. They said he then went the wrong way in his truck down a one-way street. One employee also said he made a pass at her at the party.

Hiett, a Republican, already is facing an investigation over a drinking incident at a regulatory conference in Minnesota in June. He has acknowledged he abused alcohol at the conference and said he is getting outpatient treatment.

The three-member commission regulates oil and gas drilling, public utilities, cotton gins and key aspects of the transportation industry. Hiett was elected to his second six-year term in 2020.

More: Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett to face independent investigation

At the time of both incidents, Hiett was chairman of the commission. Hiett said on Wednesday he was stepping down from that position to focus on his recovery.

He promised to cooperate fully with "any personnel investigation being conducted by any appropriate body." He asked for the public's understanding and patience as the investigation proceeds.

Witnesses to the June 9 incident said he groped a man in the lobby bar of the Renaissance Hotel in Minneapolis. Hiett has said he doesn't remember but must have been joking around.

The newest corporation commissioner, Kim David, called last week for an independent investigator to look at that incident and any others. She confirmed Tuesday night that she was aware of the incident last year involving the two employees.

Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett, left, speaks beside Commissioner Kim David on Wednesday during a commission meeting in Oklahoma City.

"They indicated that there was behavior that occurred that created concern," David said. "Very serious allegations of misbehavior have been brought forward, as well as eyewitness accounts to these allegations. This speaks to the critical nature of why the investigation I called for in last week's meeting should move forward as quickly as possible."

David was elected chair of the Corporation Commission on Wednesday and took over a meeting immediately.

Hiett has not responded directly to a request for comment about the Broadway 10 incident. He instead directed The Oklahoman to a statement he made July 15 about getting care from experts after falling into the "trap" of using alcohol to deal with stress.

Both employees spoke to The Oklahoman on the condition they not be identified. The women said Hiett became intoxicated at a launch party for a new law firm in an upstairs area of the bar.

The first employee said she had to help him walk down the stairs when the party wound down.

"We're trying to tell him, like, 'Hey, we don't really think you should drive. Let us call an Uber. Let me drive you home in my car. I can drive your truck to your place ... or whatever we need to do so that you're not driving.' And we're trying to talk him into that.

"And he doesn't even know where his truck is," the employee said. "So we're pushing the button on his key fob trying to find his truck.

"So we get to his truck. And I have the key so I get in it and I'm like, 'Commissioner Hiett, I will drive.' I'm in the driver's seat and he's like getting mad at me and irritated. ... He was very stern."

More: Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett apologizes for drunken behavior

The first employee said she has seen the commissioner intoxicated at other times including at the conference in Minneapolis.

The second employee said she also assisted Hiett last year out of Broadway 10 "after he had too much to drink." She said she had to hold him up at one point.

She said she pleaded with the commissioner after they got to his truck. "I said, 'Commissioner Hiett, please don't drive. Please don't make us let you drive.' And I started crying. ... He insisted."

Hiett, 57, lives south of Kellyville but has an apartment that he stays at when in Oklahoma City. Both employees said they tried to follow him to make sure he got there safe but lost him when he drove the wrong way down the one-way street.

With them was a man who works for a utility company. They caught up with Hiett outside his apartment where he fell several times before getting inside, according to their accounts.

About the pass at the bar, the second employee said the married commissioner wasn't explicit and did not touch her. She recalled him saying "how are me and you going to do this."

"I was just floored, of course, and ... someone walked up and kind of interrupted it. So it was perfect timing. And I just kind of giggled my nervous giggle and let it go."

She said he spoke to her about the incident the following week. "He said, 'I just want to apologize for my behavior the other night. It was not acceptable. I'm really embarrassed and I'm sorry that I put you and anybody else through that,'" she recalled.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Todd Hiett steps down as Oklahoma Corporation Commission chair
"Criminal laws have grown so exuberantly and come to cover so much previously innocent conduct that almost anyone can be arrested for something," Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch observed in 2019. Gorsuch elaborates on that theme in a new book, showing how the proliferation of criminal penalties has given prosecutors enormous power to ruin people's lives, resulting in the nearly complete replacement of jury trials with plea bargains.

"Some scholars peg the number of federal statutory crimes at more than 5,000," Gorsuch and co-author Janie Nitze note in Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law, while "estimates suggest that at least 300,000 federal agency regulations carry criminal sanctions." The fact that neither figure is known with precision speaks volumes about the expansion of federal law.

Literally volumes. "By 2018, the U.S. Code encompassed 54 volumes and approximately 60,000 pages," Gorsuch writes, while "the Code of Federal Regulations spanned about 200 volumes and over 188,000 pages" as of 2021.

Since keeping up with all that law is a challenge even for experts, the rest of us cannot hope to know exactly which conduct is a crime, even though "fair notice" is a basic requirement of due process. The civil liberties lawyer Harvey Silverglate has suggested that "the average busy professional in this country" may unwittingly commit "several federal crimes" every day.

And that's just federal law. Thanks to the vast trove of potential charges, Silverglate observes, quoting a warning from Justice Robert Jackson, "prosecutors can easily succumb to the temptation of first 'picking the man and then searching the law books, or putting investigators to work, to pin some offense on him.'"

Former President Donald Trump says that is what happened to him. His 34 felony convictions for paperwork violations stemming from his hush payment to a porn star provide evidence to support that complaint.

Because the same conduct can be construed as multiple violations of state or federal law, prosecutors can pressure defendants to plead guilty by threatening to throw the book at them. Although Special Counsel David Weiss initially was prepared to drop a federal gun charge against Hunter Biden under a diversion agreement, for example, he ultimately prosecuted the president's son for three felonies, all based on the same gun purchase, with combined maximum penalties of 25 years.

Why the change? After the diversion agreement and a plea agreement resolving tax charges fell apart, Biden decided to make the government prove its case in court. Exercising his Sixth Amendment right to trial by jury came with a stiff penalty.

Something similar happened to Aaron Swartz, a young computer programmer, entrepreneur, and internet "hacktivist" who, apparently frustrated by limits on information he thought should be freely available, downloaded articles from JSTOR, an online academic library. When Swartz was caught, he returned the articles, and JSTOR considered the matter resolved.

Federal prosecutors nevertheless "charged Aaron with wire fraud and three counts under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act of 1986," Gorsuch writes. And when Swartz declined to plead guilty, "prosecutors added another nine counts to their charges against him, exposing him now to decades in prison and millions in fines." Swartz committed suicide a few months before his trial was scheduled to begin.

As a result of such pressure, Gorsuch notes, about 97 percent of federal felony convictions and 94 percent of state felony convictions are based on plea agreements. Trial by jury, which the Framers viewed as an essential bulwark against tyranny, plays only a marginal role in our current criminal justice system.

The more juries are needed as a check on prosecutorial power, in other words, the less likely they are to serve that role. "The Framers really believed in juries," Gorsuch noted in an interview with New York Times columnist David French. "I mean, there it is in Article III. There it is in the Sixth Amendment. There it is in the Seventh Amendment. They really believed in juries, and we've lost that."

 Copyright 2024 by Creators Syndicate Inc.

The post 'Too Much Law' Gives Prosecutors Enormous Power To Ruin People's Lives appeared first on Reason.com.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center is celebrating the birthday of one of its largest and oldest residents this month.

The Topeka Zoo posted to social media on Wednesday, Aug. 7 inviting locals to visit the zoo on Aug. 10 for resident elephant Coras 66th birthday. The day will also mark World Elephant Day.

Cora arrived in Topeka in 2016 where she could enjoy her golden years in the company of local zookeepers and other animals. She previously appeared in the movie Smokey and the Bandit II as the elephant Charlotte.

While she is not the oldest elephant, living to 66 is nothing to scoff at. After all, the median life expectancy is only around 48 years. Taking care of elephants is not easy work, but taking care of older elephants is even harder. Topeka Zoo social media statement excerpt

The zoo said Cora has a few health problems which are common among older elephants but receives special care from staff and veterinarians. This includes making sure her hay is run through a hay chipper so she can eat it easily and the recent installation of a head rest in her enclosure.

Day of outdoor fun coming to Lake Shawnees Tour Topeka

To help celebrate her birthday, the zoo is holding a raffle for a lucky winner to give Cora a bath this year. People can buy tickets, ranging from $5 to $20, on the zoos website. A drawing will be held at the end of August.

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.

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.
A police vehicle is parked outside of the University of Toronto's Scarborough Campus after police say during a press conference that they detonated a hoax explosive device, in Toronto

A police vehicle is parked outside of the University of Toronto's Scarborough Campus after police say during a press conference that they detonated a hoax explosive device, in Toronto

(Reuters) -Toronto police on Tuesday detonated what they said was a "hoax device" at a satellite campus of the University of Toronto that they had earlier described as an explosive device.

Dan Pravica with the Toronto Police told reporters that a remote robot was sent in to X-ray a suspicious package inside the Environmental Sciences and Chemistry building at the University of Toronto Scarborough.

Based on the images officers saw, they believed the package contained an explosive.

The package was then safely detonated by police. Upon inspection, it was determined that no explosive device was contained inside the package, which had first been found by campus security.

Police earlier confirmed in an email to Reuters that the package contained an explosive device.

Pravica said that police were investigating, but that it was not immediately clear who may have been responsible for leaving what he called the hoax device.

(Reporting by Brad Brooks in Longmont, Colorado; Editing by Caitlin Webber, Sandra Maler and Christian Schmollinger)
It would feel wrong for the state of Florida to do the right thing in Crosley Green's case at this point.

In for a penny, in for a pound, right?

Even if the state truly believed Green is guilty of killing Charles "Chip" Flynn in 1989, even if the powers-that-be convinced themselves that Green received a fair trial and prosecutors didn't cheat, even if they feel the 33-plus years Green has spent in prison is not enough, it still takes pretty big cojones to say they shouldn't fix a mistake regarding his parole date due to a technicality.

And cojones they have indeed. And to no one's surprise, a court in the second judicial circuit late last week ruled in the state's favor.

What does this mean? It means the court ruled that the Florida Commission on Offender Review does not have to reset Crosley Greens eligible parole date or correct a miscalculation that arbitrarily added more than 40 years to his imprisonment.

Crosley Green during an interview with Engagement Editor John A. Torres at Sumter Correctional Institution on May 21, 2024

We are deeply disappointed by the courts decision. It is wrong on the law and the facts, and we will appeal, said Green's lead attorney Keith J. Harrison, a partner with Crowell & Moring, the firm that has defended him pro bono since 2008

The state (remember the cojones) never argued that the added 40 years is correct. They never even addressed the mistake in their argument. They couldn't when they know it's wrong. The state simply and successfully argued that Green missed his chance to appeal the mistake.

Just wait, it gets even better.

Green was originally sentenced to die in Florida's electric chair when he was convicted of murder, kidnapping and robbery for a crime that many  including myself, many in the legal community and the two responding law enforcement officers from the Brevard County Sheriff's Office  believe he did not do. After serving nearly 20 years on Florida's death row, Green was re-sentenced to life in prison.

It should be noted that more than 100 prominent law professors, former state-court judges, and a group of current and former prosecutors filed amicus briefs to the U.S. Supreme Court urging them to hear Green's case.

More: Torres: Will Crosley Green ever go free?

In 2015, the state erroneously took into account both the felony murder charge as well as the kidnapping conviction, which added 45 years to his parole eligibility date. By their own rules, the commission should have only considered the murder conviction. The state correctly did exclude time for the robbery conviction but set Green's parole release date to 2054 when in fact he is eligible right now.

The state's main argument, which again has nothing to do with the miscalculation, is that Green missed the deadline to ask the Florida Commission on Offender Review to change the date in 2015. But Green says he didnt miss the deadline at all, because the state never sent him the decision so he could not appeal it until 2023 when he was ordered back to prison.

Remember, Green had been released on house arrest in 2021, nearly three full years after the Middle District Court of Florida ruled that the state cheated in the case by not divulging information prosecutors knew. That information was that responding officers believed Flynn's ex-girlfriend was the murderer and not Green. The court ordered the conviction to be vacated and so Green was released into house arrest. The reason it was house arrest was because the state appealed the decision, naturally.

So, Once Green was released from prison, his old parole date  the wrong one  should have ceased to exist, I mean, only if we're going by Florida law. So...he needs a new date! And Greens lawyers say the Commission can and should correct their mistake right now, regardless of the appellate timeline.

During his two years of freedom, Green reunited with his family, got engaged, and held full-time employment.

But much like in Las Vegas, the house always wins and the state won that appeal, and sadly, Green was sent back to prison in 2023. Upon returning to incarceration, Green once again took up the parole issue that needed to be fixed. During a hearing in November, the commission chair, Melinda Coonrod agreed to change the mistake but the other two commissioners voted to "take no action."

Unfortunately, Coonrod was replaced in June after her second six-year term came to an end.

Luckily for Green, his attorneys with Washington D.C.-based Crowell & Moring believe in his innocence and have and they plan to appeal the decision.

Maybe someday the case will land before someone with common sense and this will be corrected. Until then, those of us who believe that justice is a fundamental right and that the most un-American thing you can do is to lock up an innocent person, will be wringing our fists at a system that cares more about procedure than fixing a clear mistake.

Contact Torres at jtorres@floridatoday.com. You can follow him on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @johnalbertorres

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Florida man can't win a break in court even over parole date mistake
Townships and millages: Here's the rest of the Holland area primary results

Plenty of additional race results came in Tuesday, Aug. 6, beyond the Ottawa County Board, Allegan County Board and high-level county positions.

Voters in the Holland area chose between possible representatives in a multitude of townships, plus a handful of local millages.

Holland Township

Five candidates, all Republicans, faced off for four trustee nominations in Holland Township. The winners include:

Incumbent Dave DeYoung (24.2%)

Incumbent Gretchen Molotky (18.2%)

Terry Nienhuis (25.4%)

Incumbent Elliot Church (19.3%)

The winners will face Democrat Margo Walters in November, with the four highest vote-getters earning seats on the board. Meanwhile in Holland Township, Republican Russell Te Slaa  currently a trustee  is running unopposed for supervisor, Republican incumbent Michael Dalman is running unopposed for clerk and Republican incumbent Vince is running unopposed for treasurer.

Park Township

Two candidates faced off for the Republican nomination for treasurer in Park Township. The winner was incumbent Jan Steggerda (58.9%). There are no Democrats running for the position in November.

Seven candidates, all Republican, fought for four nomination slots for trustee. The winners include:

Incumbent Loren Serne (14.5%)

Shar Clark (16%)

Township Supervisor James Gerard (16.3%)

Incumbent Bryan Jones (15.3%)

The four winners will face Democrat Dave Kleinjans in November, with the four top vote-getters earning seats on the board. Meanwhile in Park Township, Republican Steve Spoelhof  a current trustee  is running for supervisor against Independent Jackie Beck and Republican Joan Zeerip is running unopposed for clerk.

Zeeland Township

Two candidates vied for the Republican supervisor slot in November. The winner was incumbent Thomas Oonk (52.6%). Two candidates also faced off for the Republican nomination for treasurer. The winner was incumbent Melissa Veldheer (69.7%). There are no Democrats filed to run for either position, so both will run unopposed.

Meanwhile in Zeeland Township, Republican incumbent Kate Kraak is running unopposed for clerk and only two candidates, Republican David Barry and Republican incumbent Jeff Salisbury, have filed to run for four available trustee positions.

Heath Township

In Heath Township, two Republicans fought for the supervisor nomination. The winner was incumbent Ronald Jones (56.1%). There are no Democrats filed to run in November.

Meanwhile in Heath Township, Republican incumbent Missy Harvey is running unopposed for clerk, Republican incumbent Misti Lindholm is running unopposed for treasurer, and Republican incumbents Hilda Boerman and William Harvey are running unopposed as trustees.

Manlius Township

In Manlius Township, two Republicans faced off for the supervisor nomination. The winner was current clerk Barbara J. Van Gelderen, with 60.3% of the vote. There are no Democrats filed for the position in November.

A three-way race for two trustee nominations ended with Republicans:

Incumbent David Kempker (365 votes)

Incumbent Thomas Nolan (295 votes)

They will run opposed in November. Meanwhile in Manlius Township, Republican Matthew Rooks is running unopposed for clerk and Republican Troy Matthew Thompson is running unopposed for treasurer.

Overisel Township

In Overisel Township, two Republicans faced off for the supervisor nomination. The winner was Lisa Russcher (64.4%). There are no Democrats filed for the position in November.

Meanwhile in Overisel Township, Republican incumbent Lori Scholten is running unopposed for clerk, Republican incumbent Rachel Hoeve is running unopposed for treasurer, and Republicans Josh Groenheide (incumbent) and Ben Koopman are running unopposed as trustees.

Voters in the Holland area chose between possible representatives in a multitude of townships, plus a handful of local millages, on Tuesday.

38th House District

In the 38th Michigan House District  which includes Saugatuck, Douglas, South Haven, St. Joseph, Bridgman and New Buffalo  Kevin Whiteford secured the Republican nomination with 56.3% of the vote.

Whiteford, husband of former State Rep. Mary Whiteford, lost to Democratic Rep. Joey Andrews in 2022. He'll try to win the seat from her again in November.

Fourth Congressional District

In the Fourth Congressional District  which includes all of Allegan and Van Buren counties, as well as portions of Ottawa, Kalamazoo, Calhoun, and Berrien counties  representative Bill Huizenga once again won the Republican nomination.

Huizenga will face Democrat Jessica Swartz, a former attorney for Western Michigan University and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, in November.

Ottawa County Road Millage

Voters in Ottawa County chose to approve a 10-year, 0.4578-mill renewal of the county's road millage on Tuesday. The levy is slated to run from 2025-2034, generating funds for road repairs.

The millage is expected to generate $7.1 million in the first year.

Allegan Road Millage

Voters in Allegan County chose to approve a renewal for the county's road millage.

The county road millage has existed, in some form, since 1968. The millage will extend by six years, from 2024-2029, renewing a 0.9654-mill expired levy and restoring another 0.0346 mills lost to Headlee Amendment rollbacks.

The millage is expected to generate about $6.1 million in the first year. Funds are earmarked for resurfacing, preservation and related preparation of primary roads."

Allegan County 911 Surcharge

Voters in Allegan County decided in favor of extending the countys surcharge funding for 911 services. The current surcharge remains in effect through Dec. 31.

The renewal will remain in effect until the Emergency 911 Service Enabling Act of 1986 is repealed or through Dec. 31, 2025.

Laketown Township Fire, Road, Bicycle and Drain Millage

Residents in Laketown Township voted for a two-year renewal of a tax funding several operations on Tuesday.

The levy of 2 mills provides funding for operations, equipment and apparatus acquisition for the Graafschap Fire Department  plus the repair, construction, reconstruction and blacktopping of roads and bicycle paths; and repair and maintenance of drains.

Health Township Fire and Road Millages

Voters in Heath Township chose to approve the reauthorization of a 2-mill levy for fire services, reduced to 1.9603 mills through Headlee Amendment rollbacks. The millage will last from 2025-2029, with an estimated $443,806 in the first year.

Voters chose to deny a road millage last renewed in 2020 at a total of 2.5 mills. The proposal would've increased the ask to 3 mills, levied from 2025-2029 and estimated to raise $665,709 in the first year.

Fennville Public Schools Operating Millage

Voters in the Fennville Public Schools District approved an essential operating millage on Tuesday. Every public district in Michigan is required to have an operating millage in order to receive full state funding. The 18-mill tax is levied against non-homestead properties, which doesn't include primary residences, from 2025-2028, with an increase of 0.5 mills to protect against rollbacks.

 Contact reporter Austin Metz at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Township and millage results across the greater Holland area
EXCLUSIVE: Seven days of rioting on the streets of Britain has prompted one of the countrys top production companies to email staff to condemn the unrest and signpost welfare support.

Studio Lambert, the production company behind The Traitors and Squid Game: The Challenge, described the disorder as deeply affecting in the memo to employees.

More from Deadline

Violence has broken out across the UK after the fatal stabbing of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport last week.

The unrest was initially fuelled by social media misinformation that the suspected assailant, Cardiff-born Axel Rudakubana, was an asylum seeker.

Anger has continued to be whipped up online, not least by X/Twitter owner Elon Musk, who has been critical of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and claimed that Britain is on the brink of civil war.

Signed by founder Stephen Lambert and his top team, the Studio Lambert email said: I would like to address the deeply affecting events taking place across the UK in recent days.

The violence, vandalism and discrimination we have witnessed is shocking and a stark reminder of the continuing challenges we face in building an inclusive society.

Studio Lamberts intervention is thought to be one of the first of its kind from a major player in the UK television industry amid reports that rioting will continue on Wednesday.

The All3Media-owned production company said it stood against all forms of discrimination, racism and violence and wants to create a working environment free from violence or abuse from any people.

Studio Lambert reminded employees of its anti-harassment and bullying policy. The company also signposted assistance resources, including counseling.

If there is anything you need to feel safer, please let us know. If you would prefer to work from home and not travel this week, for example, please discuss with your line manager, added the email, which was also signed by chief creative officer Tim Harcourt.

If you work in the British screen industry and have been impacted by the UK riots, Deadline is keen to hear from you. Please email jkanter@deadline.com.

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Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The transit of Russian gas through the Ukrainian gas transportation system is currently operating as usual.

Source: ExPro with reference to the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine (OGTSU)

Quote: "The nominations have been confirmed, and the physical flow of gas is maintained."

Details: On Wednesday, 7 August, Russian Telegram channels reported that the Armed Forces of Ukraine had taken control of the Sudzha gas metering station in Russia's Kursk Oblast. There has been no official confirmation of this information yet.

ExPro reports that the Sudzha station is an integral part of Russia's gas delivery to Europe via Ukraine. Currently, Sudzha is the only place where Russian gas enters Ukraine and is transported to European clients.

The volume of Russian gas transited on 7 August is around 39.5 million cubic metres, which is 6.8% less than the previous day (42.4 million cubic metres).

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WASHINGTON CO., Tenn. (WJHL)  First responders and volunteers from the Tri-Cities region are doing their part to provide aid to those affected by Tropical Storm Debby.

A 12-person team comprised of members of Bristol, Kingsport and Johnson Citys fire departments, along with the Washington County/Johnson City EMS, left Monday bound for South Carolina. They join swift water rescue teams to provide flood relief to the area.

A new group of first responders from jurisdictions like the Johnson City Fire Department and Church Hill Fire Department experienced swift water rescue training in the Nolichucky River Tuesday afternoon.

Were teaching them how to swim safely in current, said Washington County/Johnson City EMS Chief Dan Wheeley. Keeping their feet up, so they dont become foot entrapped. If they have to go out and actually swim and rescue somebody, this is the fundamental basics of that.

Braves & Reds to play at Bristol Motor Speedway in 2025

The regions geographic capabilities make learning those survival and rescue skills easier. Between the training opportunities and the regions proximity to the coast, aid was quickly deployed from the Tri-Cities to South Carolina.

We have a lot of water, a lot of moving water, a lot of areas to train on, said Washington County Emergency Management Director Evan Clyburn. So, with the skill sets that are required for these district teams, this is the perfect background and perfect areas for those guys and girls to train up on their skill set and reach their peak.

Regional Red Cross volunteers provide aid in Florida. (Photo: Becky Wallner, Donald Pfaefflin, and Jodie Kennedy).

Three Northeast Tennessee Red Cross volunteers are in Tallahassee, Florida working in shelters. Northeast Tennessees American Red Cross Executive Director Dawn Day said the plan is to send more volunteers soon to wherever theyre needed in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina or North Carolina. Day is headed out to help on Friday.

One state cannot do all of this by themselves, said Day. People are coming from all over the country to the southern part of the United States to help us out. And so, were doing our part in helping as well.

A training class is scheduled to prepare more Red Cross volunteers to participate in aid efforts. The class is on Thursday starting at 1 p.m., and Day said it should last until 5 p.m. The class will take place at the American Red Cross office off Eastern Star Road. Interested volunteers must be 18 years or older.

Regional swift water rescue team members are deployed for at least 12 days. Red Cross volunteers can be deployed for a couple of weeks, depending on the scale of the damage.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Take a trip to the Sunshine State thanks to new Erie airport service

Breeze Airways will fly in and out of Erie International Airport twice a week, once on Wednesdays and again on Saturdays starting November 6.

Its being called a huge step forward for the airport, and according to Breeze officials, fares start as low as $59, with different packages and bundles being offered.

We fly an Airbus 220. Theyre brand new planes, and were one of the few carriers that have it in the United States. We operate with 137 seats and 12 premium seats. Its a quiet aircraft, fuel-efficient, and a little bit smaller to be able to target those customers that want to be able to go down to Florida, said Bud Hafer, director of government and airport affairs for Breeze Airways.

Breeze is a newer airline, operating since May of 2021, however, they fly out of 60 different cities across the country.

Erie airport unveils new service to Orlando

A Breeze representative said they look to enter communities that they feel are under-served, and overlooked by other larger airlines.

The number of people between Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Buffalo that fly to Orlando is astronomical. A lot of people leaving erie going to those destinations. Well be able to capture people from Jamestown, Erie, North East, Mentor, Ashtabula, Girard All of those communities will now be able to come to Erie for those flights to central Florida, said Derek Martin, executive director of the Erie Regional Airport Authority.

Martin said their already-in-place infrastructure made it an easy fit for Breeze as well, with several projects completed and things like the taxi way being an incentive to partner here.

Some involved with the airports growth said initiatives like the Fly Erie Fund also made this a no-brainer for Breeze.

PEMA sending 45 people for Tropical Storm Debby aid

Had we not had it in place, I dont think that they would be here, said Jake Rouch, acting CEO for the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. The Fly Erie Fund can help mitigate that risk for the airline whereas the airport authority is not legally allowed to.

And if flights sell well, there will be opportunities that offer even more.

Its two flights a week to Orlando, but it could go four flights to Orlando. They could even go to another destination. Its the start of something that can be monumental for both the leisure and business traveler, said Martin.

Theres a sale on tickets for the next few days, so be sure to check out listings for flights to Orlando in November.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
Tropical Storm Debby: Check flooding, outages, road closures and more in Wilmington area

The Cape Fear region is expected to see historic rainfall amounts, with up to 15 inches possible from Tropical Storm Debby

As Tropical Storm Debby moves by the Cape Fear region, here are some important links to check power outages, road closures, storm damage and more.

Power outages

Check New Hanover County outages by visiting https://outagemap.duke-energy.com/#/current-outages/ncsc or call 800-769-3766.

Check Brunswick County outages by visiting Brunswick Electric Membership Corporation.

For outages in Pender County, visit https://www.pendercountync.gov/

Storm tracker

Monitor the latest tropical developments here.

Warnings and watches

Click this link to see the latest weather warnings and watches for the Cape Fear region.

Flooding updates

Check river water levels across the region.

Flooding hotspots to watch for in the Wilmington area with historic rainfall predicted.

River water levels

Check to see if rivers are flooding.

Rainfall

See rainfall predictions in the Wilmington area here.

Rip currents

Click this link to see the latest on rough surf and dangerous rip currents in the Wilmington area.

Wind

Click this link to see when the most likely time will be for tropical storm force winds to the Wilmington area.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Check Wilmington, NC, power outages, road closures, rain from Debby
FLEMINGTON, N.J. (PIX11)Having held the position for well over a decade, Hunterdon Countys Director of Emergency Management, Brayden Fahey, knows which areas of the county are prone to flooding.

Depending on the nature of the flooding, the South Branch of the Raritan River is obviously a flood hazard for us, as is the Delaware River, said Fahey.

More New Jersey News

But on Tuesday evening and into the night, the focus is on flash flooding, which could pop up anywhere. Their hope is that if that happens, they can recover from it quickly before their attention turns to what Tropical Storm Debby could bring our way later this week. Just like they do year-round, the agency ensures the countys swift water rescue teams are ready and equipped, just in case.

Were also working with our partner agencies to make sure that should we need to activate shelters that our shelter plan has been activated, said Fahey. Its currently on standby status at this point.

Meanwhile, in Somerset County, the Raritan River consistently garners attention during heavy rain.

New York City forecast and PIX11s Weather Center

County Commissioner Doug Singleterry urges people to stay safe.

The best advice I could give people is to stay off the roads, said Singleterry.

He said the county will take action if levels get too high.

If we need to close the levees, we will do that, said Singleterry, and in all likelihood, we probably will.

Like many other communities, Manville was set to host National Night Out on Tuesday night. However, the event has been postponed due to the forecast and could be rescheduled for next month.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Key advisories around Tropical Storm Debby have been issued Wednesday morning, Aug. 7, at 5 a.m. by the National Weather Service. The Carolinas are already seeing warnings and watches related to Debby.

NWS advisories are still calling for flooding impacts from heavy rainfall persisting through Thursday. The Piedmont of the Carolinas, portions of the Mid-Atlantic States and Vermont were all mentioned as likely areas for considerable flooding impact.

Tropical storm conditions are expected to spread north along the southeast coast from South Carolina to North Carolina through Thursday, with warnings and watches in effect for many areas within. Storm surge is possible and potentially dangerous along the coast of S.C. and southeastern regions of N.C. from South Santee River to Cape Fear.

From USA TODAY: Carolinas bracing for second landfall from Tropical Storm Debby: Live updates

More: Tropical Storm Debby: NC coast faces 'life threatening' conditions; what to know about WNC

NC coast Debby impacts

The track of Tropical Storm Debby per the National Hurricane Center's 8 a.m. advisory.

Currently, the Wilmington area is under a tropical storm warning. An 8 a.m. update from the National Hurricane Center said that Tropical Storm Debby was located 50 miles southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and about 90 miles east of Savannah, Georgia. Maximum sustained winds are at 45 mph.

The Brunswick County coast is also under a storm surge watch for the next 48 hours - this means a possibility of "life-threatening inundation" due to rising water moving inland from the coastline.

Flooding has already affected areas of the N.C. coast. The Wilmington StarNews reported this morning that areas of the Cape Fear region had already seen over 4 inches of rain due to Debby, with road flooding reported in several areas of Brunswick County. As of 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, highest rainfall reported in the region was 4.24 inches in Calabash, with other areas seeing closer to 1-3 inches.

A street is flooded by Tropical Storm Debby on Aug. 6, 2024, in Charleston, South Carolina. The storm has stalled over the Southeast U.S., where it is expected to drop 10-20 inches of rain over the next couple of days.

More: Trump's running mate postpones NC events, along with Harris, due to Tropical Storm Debby

Will Tropical Storm Debby impact Asheville, Western NC?

NWS Meteorologist Trisha Palmer told the Citizen Times that the Asheville area may see some heavy rain tonight, Aug. 7, as one of the main effects of Debby.

"For the heaviest rain, mostly we're looking along the I-77 corridor in areas east of I-26," Palmer said.

She added that the Western Piedmont, escarpment areas and northern mountains could see some heavier rain around Thursday afternoon which will move out in the evening.

Currently, Palmer said that NWS predictions put Asheville at about 1.5 inches of rain. In the Grandfather Mountain area, around 3.5 inches are predicted. Palmer said that this represents a clear pattern of precipitation resulting from Debby's location.

"The further east you go, those numbers ramp up pretty quickly," Palmer said. "So, for the Hickory area, we had just under 4 inches. So, there's a pretty tight gradient between there along the escarpment."

As for wind, WNC naturally won't see anything like the tropical force expected on the coast. Altitude comes into play to a degree, but Palmer said that rain is the main concern.

"It'll be breezy, especially on the mountaintops," Palmer said. "So, gusting 20 to 25. And then, you know, if you go up on top of Mount Mitchell, probably gusting 30, maybe 35. But this is not going to be a big wind event for us."

More: Harris picks Walz for VP over Shapiro, Kelly, others; Why did NC Gov. Roy Cooper bow out?

Tropical Storm Debby movement

The Hurricane Center expects Tropical Storm Debby to make landfall along the S.C. coast Wednesday night or early Thursday morning. As noted, Debby was 50 miles southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and about 90 miles east of Savannah, Georgia, moving east around 5 mph. Slower motion toward north and north-northwest is expected today, Aug. 7.

While strengthening is possible before Debby's center reaches the S.C. coast, weakening is forecast to begin Thursday after the center moves inland. Debby is expected to merge with a frontal boundary over the U.S. Mid-Atlantic on Friday.

Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 175 miles from the center.

More: Another 6 Big Lots stores in NC are closing: Here's where

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: Tropical Storm Debby impacts on NC coast, SC coast, Western NC
RICHMOND, Va. (DC News Now)  As emergency crews and Virginians prepare for Tropical Storm Debby, Virginia State Police (VSP) shared that all available troopers and supervisors will be working during the storm.

This comes after Gov. Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, warning residents to be prepared and stay alert as significant rainfall was forecasted across the state.

Virginia governor declares state of emergency ahead of Tropical Storm Debby

In response, VSP said as Debby moves across the region, troopers and supervisors are working during the storm. Drivers can also expect to see state police along the highway to prevent crashes.

If you are driving during the storm, VSP is reminding drivers to:

Dont drive through standing water. As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Standing water can also mask issues below the waters surface. Turn around, dont drown.

Slow your speed. Though state police works closely with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to identify problem areas on Virginias highways during a storm, drivers still must drive for conditions. Slowing your speed gives you more time to safely react and avoid a crash. Drive your vehicle based on your ability to properly maintain control of your vehicle.

Dont tailgate. You need increased stopping distance on slick or wet road surfaces. Give yourself more space between vehicles traveling ahead of you in order to avoid rear end collisions.

Buckle Up. Most crashes that occur during inclement weather are caused by vehicles sliding off the road or other vehicles. Wearing your seat belt protects you from being thrown around the inside of your vehicle and suffering serious injury in a crash.

Put down your phone. Having to drive in heavy rain requires a drivers full, uninterrupted attention. Do not text and drive or shoot video of the bad conditions while driving, as these actions put you, your passengers and other vehicles at extreme risk of a crash and/or injury.

Check Your Vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order for the conditions. Fill up the tank in advance. Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid, tire tread, battery life, etc.

Dont leave home without bottled water, snacks, cell phone charger and flashlight.

For the latest in road conditions and updates, please call 511 on a cell phone, download the App or go online to the VDOT Virginia Traffic Information Website at www.511virginia.org.

Virginians are advised to only call 911 or #77 on a cell phone in case of emergency. It is essential to keep emergency dispatch lines open for those in serious need of police, fire or medical response.

In the case of an emergency call 9-1-1 or #77.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Update: Tropical Storm Debby made its second landfall Thursday and started a slow slog through North Carolina. Click here for the latest.

Tropical Storm Debby should make its trek through North Carolina on Thursday, bringing heavy rains and potential flooding, forecasters say.

At 11 pm. Wednesday, the storm was about 65 miles south-southwest of Myrtle Beach and moving to the northeast at about 3 mph, about the speed the average healthy adult walks. Debby had maximum sustained winds of around 60 mph with some higher gusts, the National Hurricane Center said.

Forecasters said the storm eventually would pick up some speed for the trip north. It should arrive in North Carolina during the day Thursday, still packing tropical storm-force winds, forecasts say, before being downgraded to a tropical depression as it moves through Virginia.

Tropical Storm Debby could drop another 3 to 9 inches of rain over parts of North Carolina through Friday. That would bring the totals for the week up to 15 inches in some parts of southeastern N.C., the National Hurricane Center said.

What will Debby bring to North Carolina?

Tropical Storm Debby continues to be mainly a flooding threat, and the storm is expected to drop an additional 3 to 9 inches of rain over parts of North Carolina through Friday. That would bring the totals for the week up to 15 inches in some parts of southeastern N.C., the Hurricane Center said.

A swollen Walnut Creek continues to rise beneath the bridge on Garner Road, as heavy rain from Tropical Storm Debby moves into the area on Thursday, August 8, 2024 in Raleigh, N.C.

A flood watch is in effect in parts of Robeson, Bladen, Columbus, Pender, Brunswick and New Hanover counties through Friday.

A tropical storm warning and storm surge watch are in effect in coastal Brunswick County. And parts of Pender and New Hanover counties are under tropical storm warnings.

Once the storm moves inland again, forecasters expect it to track through the center of the state and head into Virginia. The center of the storm should be out of North Carolina early Friday, but the back side of the storm will continue to produce rain and wind here through Friday night.

Meteorologists said a few tornadoes could occur over parts of eastern North Carolina Wednesday night. The risk of tornadoes will shift northward on Thursday into central North Carolina and central Virginia, the Hurricane Center said.

North Carolinas Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network showed six sites Wednesday in eastern and southeastern N.C likely to see major flooding from Tropical Storm Debby, marked by green dots circled in purple. At least another dozen, circled in red or orange, will see moderate or minor flooding

Whe re will flooding be the worst?

NC FIMAN  Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network  showed six spots in eastern and southeastern N.C. Wednesday where major flooding is expected during or after Debbys rains, plus more than a dozen sites where moderate or mild flooding is expected. FIMAN uses stream flow data, weather forecasts and other information to identify places where flooding will occur.

As they have been in the past, low-lying areas along the Neuse River are expected to flood in Clayton, Smithfield, Goldsboro and Kinston, along with ones on the Lumber River in Lumberton, the Little River in Spring Lake and the Cape Fear River in Fayetteville and Wilmington.

Most of central North Carolina is under a flood watch through Friday, and flash flooding is expected in low-lying areas and those in urban areas that dont drain quickly.

Forecasters say Tropical Storm Debby will make its second landfall Wednesday night or Thursday morning and gain some speed for its trek into North Carolina. The storm will continue to bring rain and some wind to the N.C. through Friday night.

Whats the forecast for Raleigh?

The Triangle can expect another 4 to 8 inches of rain through late Friday before the storm moves out. Thursday will be the wettest day.

 Heavier storms are expected Wednesday night that could bring 2 to 3 inches of rain.

 Thursday and Thursday night, showers are likely and thunderstorms are possible, with the potential for a total of up to 5 inches of rain throughout the day. Winds will be around 15 mph with gusts as high as 26 mph, the National Weather Service says.

 Friday and Friday night will likely bring more showers and possibly a thunderstorm, with considerably less accumulation  less than 1 inch total. It will still be breezy with gusts up to 24 mph, forecasters say.

 Saturday should be mostly sunny and hot, with a high of 89, the Weather Service says.
Article first published: Thursday, Aug. 08, 2024, 5 a.m. ET

On Thursday at 5 am, the National Hurricane Center issued an advisory stating that Tropical Storm Debby is 30 miles north-northeast of Charleston South Carolina and 60 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach South Carolina, with maximum sustained wind of 50 mph. Its moving 5 mph to the northwest.

"Debby is then expected to move faster toward the northeast across the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Northeast on Friday and Atlantic Canada on Saturday." according to analysts. "Weakening is forecast during the next day or so, and Debby is likely to become a tropical depression by this afternoon or evening."

YESTERDAY (Wednesday):

Yesterday, South Carolina's coastline was expected to encounter Debby, coming from the Atlantic Ocean

CHANGES WITH THIS ADVISORY:

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for the coast of North Carolina east of Surf City to Ocracoke Inlet.

The Tropical Storm Warning has been discontinued south of South Santee River, South Carolina.

SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for:

- North of South Santee River, South Carolina to Ocracoke Inlet, North Carolina

A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area, in this case during the next 12 hours.

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND:

WIND: Tropical storm conditions are expected to continue along the coasts of South Carolina and North Carolina within the tropical storm warning area through today.

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 to Ocracoke Inlet including the Neuse and Pamlico Rivers...1 to 3 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 6 inches of rainfall with locally higher amounts, across portions of southeastern North Carolina leading to maximum storm total amounts as high as 15 inches. Additional rainfall of 1 to 3 inches over portions of eastern South Carolina will bring maximum storm total amounts as high as 20 to 25 inches. Considerable flooding is expected across portions of eastern South Carolina and southeast North Carolina through Friday.

From central North 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 portions of Maryland north through Upstate New York and Vermont, 2 to 4 inches, with local amounts to 6 inches, are expected through Friday night. This will likely result in areas of 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 few tornadoes may occur over parts of eastern North Carolina this morning. The tornado threat will shift northward today into central North Carolina and southern to central Virginia.

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 South Carolina 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.
Tropical Storm Debby swirls over Atlantic, still dumping rain on the Carolinas before moving north

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP)  Tropical Storm Debby was swirling over coastal Georgia and Carolinas on Wednesday, its wide bands of rain swelling inland waterways before it slowly marches north.

Debby was expected to restrengthen a little and turn north toward the South Carolina coastline before its center makes a second landfall late Wednesday or early Thursday, weather officials said. The meandering storm  moving forward at just 4 mph (6 kph) Wednesday morning  has already drenched coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina with more than a foot (30 centimeters) of rain in places, stirring up tornadoes and submerging streets with waist-high floodwaters.

Family rescued amid French Quarter Creek flash flooding

But its core was surrounded by drier air and the worst rainfall was falling hundreds of miles to the north, into eastern North Carolina before spreading into southeast Virginia. Both declared a state of emergency. Forecasters warned 5 inches (13 centimeters) of rain could fall from South Carolina to Vermont through this weekend.

The area of most concern Wednesday was in southeastern North Carolina, where Hurricane Matthew caused a historic billion-dollar flood in 2016. Two years later, many of those records were broken during Hurricane Florence. Both storms killed dozens.

The National Weather Service warned up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) of rain could fall west of Wilmington, North Carolina, in areas that already saw heavy rains overnight.

Charleston and Savannah, Georgia, were deluged Monday and Tuesday, and Charleston imposed a curfew in its downtown peninsula that lasted 32 hours before it was lifted Wednesday. Dozens of roads were closed because of flooding similar to what the city sees several times a year now because of rising sea levels.

Charleston Mayor Williams Cogswell said the closures avoided the need for water rescues and kept yahoos from damaging properties by driving through flooded streets and pushing water over sandbags.

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)

Trip Hamilton paddles his friends Brandin Gates, second from left, Mallie Taylor, second from right, and Ellie Combs, right, all from Charleston, S.C., 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)

Pedestrians make their way down Montagu St. in Charleston, S.C., as Tropical Storm Debby approaches, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Mic Smith)

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)

Flood waters overtake the intersection of Huger Street and King 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)

A lawn chair floats at the intersection of Aiken Street and North Hampstead Square street as rain continues to fall from Tropical Storm Debby, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Charleston, S.C. (Gavin McIntyre/The Post And Courier via AP)

Residents repair their roof as high winds from an outer band from Tropical Storm Debby passed over the Isle of Palms, S.C., Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Mic Smith)

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 showed up in a boat Tuesday morning.

It was hell all night, Jones said.

Debbys center was about 90 miles (145 kilometers) east of Savannah on Wednesday morning, according to a bulletin from the National Hurricane Center. It had maximum sustained winds of 45 mph (73 kph).

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.

TRACKING DEBBY: Latest information on the storm

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.

Floodwaters remained in Colleton County Wednesday morning where police officers kept watch on barricades blocking roads where stately trees were reflected in the standing water.

Sandbags available in Colleton County as river expected to rise

Tornadoes knocked down trees and damaged a few homes on Kiawah Island and Edisto Island.

Crooked Hammock Brewery in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, closed early on 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 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 New York City 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.

President Joe Biden approved emergency declarations making federal disaster assistance available to Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas.

Debby is finally forecast to pick up speed Thursday before weakening inland as the weather moves north over North Carolina and Virginia 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; Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut; Lisa Baumann in Bellingham, Washington; and freelance photographer Stephen B. Morton in Savannah, Georgia.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
NILES, Ohio (WKBN)  The storms that blew through the Valley Tuesday left thousands without power.

As of 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, there were still about 7,800 customers without service in Trumbull County where a local organization is offering some help.

The Trumbull County Democratic Party is offering its headquarters in Niles as a place to cool off or to charge cellphones and laptops.

The organization said Wednesday that those with no electricity can come to their offices at 36 Youngstown-Warren Rd. (in the Pinetree Plaza) Wednesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Internet services are also 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 WKBN.com.
Republican Vice Presidential nominee J.D. Vance appeared at a Kamala Harris rally in Philaoh, it wasnt a Harris rally? Then why on earth did he bring a massive sign that said KAMALA?

Donald Trumps gaffe-prone running mate appeared at his own rally in Philadelphia Tuesday, where he stood in front of a sign that said, KAMALA CHAOSonly it didnt quite read that way.

Vance had invited several people onstage with him to speak about the ways theyd been negatively affected by the Biden administrations policies, specifically immigration. However, the small crowd that lurked behind Vance covered the word CHAOS on the low-hung banner. Vance appeared to stand in front of a giant sign that just read, KAMALA.

Across town, Harris and her newly announced running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz held a rally of their own. The campaign reported that 12,000 people had been in attendance, between the arena and the overflow section. Meanwhile, Vances rally drew a crowd of more than 200 supporters to a venue with a 1,300-person capacity, according to WHYY.

The ironic image quickly circulated online. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, or IATSE, posted the image on X (formerly Twitter) Tuesday.

The account captioned the photograph, Heres why you should hire union stagehands and stage designers: (They did not).

Screenshot of a tweet

IATSE confirmed Wednesday to The New Republic that Vances rally was nonunion. As their post went viral, the union took the opportunity to further criticize Trump.

In 2004, Trump crossed our picket line as workers on The Apprentice spoke up to get paid fairly, IATSE wrote in another post. He is dangerously anti-worker and anti-union.

This should sting extra hard for Vance, who was brought in to appeal to white, working-class voters specifically. Earlier Tuesday, several prominent unions and union leaders had expressed their support for Walz, including the AFL-CIO, the American Federation of Teachers, and the United Automobile Workers.

Clearly, union support has tangible benefits. Harriss rally, which was devoid of similar rigging errors, sported a large sign thanking local union labor for setting up the event.

Screenshot of a tweet
Donald Trump said he 'couldn't be more thrilled' that Kamala Harris had chosen Tim Walz as her running mate - Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

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Donald Trump has attacked Kamala Harriss running-mate choice as very into the transgender and very insulting to Jewish people.

The Republican 2024 presidential candidate said he couldnt be more thrilled Ms Harris, 59, had chosen Tim Walz as her vice-presidential candidate.

Mr Walzs record as the governor of Minnesota has been thrust into the spotlight since the announcement, with Republicans seizing on his record over transgender issues.

The 60-year-old signed a bill into law establishing Minnesota as a trans refuge, as well as an executive order last year making the state among the first to protect access to gender-affirming health care.

Trump said Tim Walz is not 'where the country is on anything' - Kevin Lamarque/REUTERS

Trump, who has called Ms Harris and Mr Walz a radical Left duo, said he would be focusing on the Midwestern governors support for the trans community on the campaign trail.

This is a ticket that would want this country to go communist immediately  if not sooner, Trump told Fox Newss morning show Fox & Friends on Wednesday.

Hes very heavy into transgender. Anything transgender he thinks is great.

Trump, 78, added: Hes not where the country is on anything.

Trump campaign insiders have suggested they were relieved by Ms Harriss decision to opt for Mr Walz as her running mate over her other short-listed candidate, the Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro.

Republican strategists believed Mr Shapiro, 51, a rising Democratic talent, could have delivered his home state for his party, which is considered critical to winning Novembers election.

Mr Shapiro faced an intensive lobbying campaign from progressives over his staunch support for Israel.

His snub in the selection process has triggered accusations of anti-Semitism from Republicans.

Trump said the snub was very insulting to Jewish people, but added he couldnt be more thrilled Ms Harris went with Mr Walz, casting him as an easier opponent to defeat.

The former president also signalled he was prepared to debate with Ms Harris in the pretty near future, despite backing out of a scheduled appearance against his Democratic opponent on ABC News on Sept 10.

Trump suggested an alternative head-to-head with Ms Harris on Fox News on Sept 4, prompting her campaign team to accuse him of running scared.

Speaking to Fox on Wednesday, Trump teased the prospect of an announcement on a new debate fairly soon.

He separately suggested Joe Biden could crash the Democratic National Convention later this month to try to take back the nomination after it was stolen from him by Ms Harris, former president Barack Obama and others on the Lunatic Left.

He feels that he made a historically tragic mistake by handing over the US presidency, a COUP, to the people in the world he most hates, and he wants it back, NOW!!!, Trump said in a social media post.

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Donald Trump claimed to have saved Kamala Harriss running mate, Tim Walz, from rightwing protesters in 2020 during unrest in Minnesota after the police murder of George Floyd, a statement that appears to contradict Walzs own descriptions of calls between the two politicians.

Speaking to Fox News on Wednesday, Trump said, without offering evidence or specific dates or times, that he publicly announced Walz was a good person in order to dissuade protesters from surrounding Walzs house.

Related: The Tim Walz cheat sheet: 10 things to know about Harriss VP pick

Walz, the Minnesota governor and Democratic vice-presidential pick, has previously said it was tweets by Trump that brought armed people to my house in the first place, including members of the Proud Boys, a far-right group.

In the Wednesday interview, Trump said: I helped him very much during the riots because his house was surrounded by people that were waving an American flag.

Floyd was killed in Minneapolis on 25 May 2020, when Derek Chauvin, a police officer, knelt on his neck. Mass protests against police brutality and for racial justice ensued, as did some rioting and property destruction.

Trump did not act to calm the situation, tweeting on 29 May: These THUGS are dishonoring the memory of George Floyd, and I wont let that happen. Just spoke to Governor Tim Walz and told him that the military is with him all the way. Any difficulty and we will assume control but, when the looting starts, the shooting starts. Thank you!

The platform then known as Twitter (now X) said Trumps post violated rules about glorifying violence but left it online.

Speaking to Fox, Trump said Walz was very, very concerned that [the situation] was going to get out of control.

They only had one guard, I guess it was at the [executive] mansion or at his house in some form. And he called me, I said, What do you want me to do about it? I was in the White House. He said, You would put out the word that Im a good person. And I did, I put out the word, I said, Hes a good person. I hope everythings good. And everybody put down their flags and took their flags with them. But they took the American flags and their Maga flags and they left.

It was thousands of people. That was the first time, I said, Wow, thats very interesting. And he called me back and he thanked me very much. Thats my only thing Ive ever had to do with him.

On Wednesday, a source close to Walz told the Guardian the call to which Trump referred took place a month before Floyds murder, days after Trumps liberate Michigan tweet.

Walz and Trump had a cordial conversation about the Covid response, the source said, citing reporting at the time and a tweet dated 20 April in which Trump said he received a very nice call from Walz and said: We are working closely on getting him all he needs, and fast. Good things happening!

Walz has discussed multiple calls with Trump in an interview with Alexander Burns and Jonathan Martin, reporters for Politico who wrote a bestselling book about the 2020 election and who on Wednesday published their conversation in full. In it, Walz said he spoke to Trump and his vice-president, Mike Pence, throughout the Covid spring and protest summer of 2020.

President Trump would call me and  those conversations  were relatively cordial, Walz said. He made public statements, during the unrest with George Floyd, that Governor Walz knows how to do this, hed been in the military. And theyre doing some of these things.

But Walz also discussed incendiary tweets including a 17 April call to Liberate Minnesota from public health rules imposed under Covid.

I also would tell him that it was really unhelpful and that my children were scared when they heard these things, Walz said. And it wasnt that he had to agree  but I asked for clarification. I never got it. I said, What does Liberate Minnesota mean? What do you want me to do differently? What do you think that Im doing or not doing?

Walz said he never got a response from Trump but had a much closer relationship with Pence, with whom he had served in Congress.

Trumps communication style was that I sometimes wondered if he actually heard me, Walz said.

Related: This Will Not Pass review: Trump-Biden blockbuster is dire reading for Democrats

Meanwhile, on Wednesday afternoon, ABC News reported that, despite many Republicans criticizing Walzs handling of unrest after Floyds murder, the then president had praised Walzs actions. It said it had acquired a recording of a phone call in which Trump told other state governors that Walz dominated the situation and said he was setting a good example for other states.

Trump called Walz an excellent guy and said in the call on 1 June 2020, according to ABC: I know Governor Walz is on the phone, and we spoke, and I fully agree with the way he handled it the last couple of days.

He praised Walz summoning law enforcement to tackle the violence and added, according to the network: I was very happy with the last couple of days, Tim. You called up big numbers and the big numbers knocked them out so fast it was like bowling pins.

On Fox News, Trump was asked how he reacted when Harris named Walz as her running mate.

I never thought this was gonna be the one that was picked, Trump said, adding: I know him a little bit.

Calling Walz a very, very liberal man, he said Harris had made a shocking pick and I could not be more thrilled.
Trump, Off The Campaign Trail, Comes Up With New Puerile Insult For Harris: Kamabla

WASHINGTON  Donald Trump, while keeping a virtually nonexistent campaign schedule this week, has instead come up with a mystifying new slur for his presidential opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris: Kamabla.

The insult seems to have made its first appearance Monday evening in a pair of posts on his social media platform attacking Harris and President Joe Biden over high grocery and energy prices.

Kamabla Harris is afraid to Debate me on FoxNews. She will be easier to defeat on the Debate Stage than Crooked Joe Biden, just watch!, Trump wrote just after midnight Tuesday, and then followed it hours later with an unhinged-sounding post that also attacked his favorite Democratic targets.

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 wrote.

Trumps top two campaign aides, Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles, did not respond to HuffPost queries about the new insult. The two were hired to give the coup-attempting, convicted criminal former president a more focused, more professional operation than he had in either 2016 or 2020.

Steven Cheung, a campaign spokesperson, responded to HuffPosts original question and each follow-up with a single word, the same, misspelled version of the vice presidents first name: Kamabla.

Its unclear what the insult is supposed to mean, although Trump has of late focused on racist disparagement of Harris, so the misspelling may be an attempt to make the Oakland, California, native seem more foreign.

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally on July 31 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He has been having fewer campaign events recently. Alex Brandon/Associated Press

Trump cant wrap his head around how to attack Kamala Harris so hes leaned into his greatest hits: insults, name calling, misogyny and racism. Shes truly confounded him, said Alyssa Farah Griffin, who worked for Trump as White House communications director.

Convicted felon Donald Trump is spiraling and scrambling because he clearly has no idea how to run against a former prosecutor, said Harris-Walz campaign spokesperson Sarafina Chitika.

Also unclear is why Trump, who complained on a near-daily basis in May during his Manhattan hush money trial about not being able to campaign in the various key states because of his criminal court schedule, is now choosing to barely campaign at all. His only public event this week appears to be a Friday visit to Montana, which is not expected to be a swing state in November, to appear with the Republican Senate candidate.

Its bizarre, Farah Griffin said. It truly feels like Trump is phoning in this election. The nicknames are lazy and ineffective, and this week he isnt traveling to a single battleground state.

Trumps history of racism goes back decades, starting with a Department of Justice probe into the real estate business he ran with his father over its refusal to rent apartments to Black applicants. The investigation was settled in 1975 after Trump and his father, Fred Trump, agreed to rent to Black tenants using the Urban League as a go-between.

In 1989, Trump bought full-page newspapers ads calling for the death penalty for the Central Park Five, a group of Black and Latino youths accused of raping a jogger in New York City. Trump continued those calls even after the five men were exonerated.

In 2011, Trump was the highest-profile spreader of the conspiracy theory that President Barack Obama, the first Black president, was not born in the United States. He even lied that he had sent a team of private investigators to Hawaii, where Obama was born, and that they cannot believe what they are finding.

During Trumps 2016 campaign for president, he claimed that most of those crossing into the United States illegally at the southern border were rapists and drug dealers. As president, he told aides that he wanted to keep out immigrants from shithole countries, referring to Haiti, El Salvador and African nations.

And most recently, during an appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists conference, he claimed Harris became Black recently, after years of claiming South Asian heritage. In fact, Harris has always claimed ancestry from both India and Jamaica.

Trumps insults are always offensive. In the case of Kamala Harris, his racism and misogyny are out of control. In fact, since Harris has become the nominee, his racism and misogyny have become primary message points, said Jennifer Horn, a former chair of the New Hampshire Republican Party.

Michael Steele, a former chair of the Republican National Committee, said spending energy on what precisely Trumps new insult meant was a waste of time and a disservice to Americans ahead of the November election.

Its BS. It means nothing. He knows what hes doing, and the press is always trying to make it more than it is, Steele said. Hes a disrespectful, insecure 78-year-old man acting like a petulant 10-year-old bully.

Related...
Trump Once Told Walz He Was Very Happy With His Job as Minnesota Guv

Donald Trump wasnt always so sour on Tim Walz.

The former president spoke glowingly of Walzs response to riots in Minneapolis after George Floyds murder in 2020praise that Trumps campaign tried to walk back on Wednesday.

I know Gov. Walz is on the phone, and we spoke, and I fully agree with the way he handled it the last couple of days, Trump said in 2020, according to a call resurfaced in an ABC News report. I was very happy with the last couple of days, Tim. You called up big numbers and the big numbers knocked them out so fast, it was like bowling pins.

Trump also referred to Walznow arguably his biggest political foe alongside Kamala Harrisas an excellent guy on the call, ABC reported.

Trump on Harris/Walz:



This is a ticket that would want this county to go communist immediately if not sooner. pic.twitter.com/bsqspo74Az  Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) August 7, 2024

Thats a stark contrast to how Trump described Walz while phoning in to Fox News on Tuesday night. He told the network that Walz, a former school teacher and National Guard veteran, was a communist who is probably about the same as Bernie Sanders.

Trumps team also pushed back on his four-year-old praise of Walz, with a spokesperson telling ABC that Trump only lauded Walz after hed heeded his advice to enlist support from the National Guard amid the riots.

A spokesperson for Harris campaign told ABC that Walz did not call in the National Guard at Trumps urging in 2020, despite the former president claiming otherwise.

Walzs response to the civil unrest after Floyds murder has been a central attack by J.D. Vance and other Republicans this week, claiming the governor was largely to blame for the chaos and burning of buildings.

He allowed rioters to burn down the streets of Minneapolis, Vance said in a rally on Tuesday.

A Trump spokesperson took the heat a notch further, claiming that Trumps old praise of the Walz was merely because he was happy that he was FINALLY doing something to deter rioters.

Governor Walz allowed Minneapolis to burn for days, despite President Trump's offer to deploy soldiers and cries for help from the liberal Mayor of Minneapolis, a Trump spokesperson told ABC. In this daily briefing phone call with Governors on June 1, days after the riots began, President Trump acknowledged Governor Walz for FINALLY taking action to deploy the National Guard to end the violence in the city.

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Donald Trump got in on the conservative meltdown over Kamala Harriss decision to pick Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate over Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, claiming that she did so because Shapiro is Jewish.

Trump, who shamelessly cavorted with a neo-Nazi, called in to Fox & Friends Wednesday morning, where he claimed Harriss decision was very insulting to Jewish people.

Trump was asked to respond to a Siena College poll that found Trump leading by 1 percent among likely New York Jewish voters, as well as a remark Tuesday from political strategist Van Jones, who claimed that antisemitism had been marbled into the Democratic Party through progressive support for Palestine against Israels catastrophic military campaign. Jones had questioned how much of Harriss decision involved caving in to some of these darker parts in the party.

Trump responded by claiming that he was very close to winning New York, which was why he was surprised Harris had not opted for Shapiro. (Its worth noting that the last time a Republican presidential candidate won New York state was 1984.)

I think that any person who votes for a Democrator in this case, these peoplebut who votes for a Democrat should have their head examined, Trump said, an old attack hes used repeatedly over the last six months against any Jewish person who has refused to support his presidential bid.

They are so bad, if you look, they are so bad to Jewish people. What theyve done, and the way they talk, and their policy and everything else, Trump said.

Trump claimed that Harris had not chosen Shapiro because of the fact that hes Jewish, and they think theyre going to offend somebody else. He didnt deign to say whom.

And you wouldnt feel very comfortable if you were in Israel right now with this team. This is the worst team ever assembled for a Jewish person or for Israel, either one. The worst team ever assembled. This is a team that will not be there, he said.

"This is a ticket that would want this county to go communist immediately if not sooner ... he's very heavy into transgender. Anything transgender he thinks is great ... I think it's very insulting to Jewish people" -- Trump on Fox & Friends on Harris/Walz pic.twitter.com/61Phj3OTVx  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 7, 2024

Trump has continued to trot out the same tired lines about how Jewish people should vote in the presidential upcoming election. Trump has previously suggested that any Jewish person who did not vote for him does not love Israel and should be spoken to. He claimed in March that any Jewish person that votes for Democrats hates their religion.



Trump and his fellow Republicans have been desperate to blame antisemitism for Harriss apparent snub of Shapiro. But when Trump dined with Nick Fuentes, a noted antisemite, conservatives were eerily silent.
Former President Donald Trump is more than happy with Vice President Kamala Harris choosing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate. In fact, he called the decision a surprising choice while recounting the time he supposedly helped call off MAGA protestors from rioting at Walzs home.

Hes a very liberal man and hes a shocking pick, and I could not be more thrilled, Trump said on a phone call with Fox & Friends on Wednesday. I cant believe it. I never thought this was going to be the one that was picked.

The GOP presidential nominee went on to say that while he doesnt know much about Walz, the two have spoken before. Trump said Walz once asked him to help him with rightwing protesters in 2020 after the police-killing of George Floyd.

I know him a little bit, I helped him very much during the riots because his house was surrounded by people that were waving an American flag  doesnt sound like very bad people, Trump said. He called me and he was very, concerned, very, very concerned that it was going to get out of control, they only had one guard. I guess it was at the mansion, or his house in some form.

He called me, I said, What do you want me to do about it? I was in the White House. He said, If you would put out the word that Im a good person? And I did, I put out the word, Trump went on. I said, Hes a good person, I hope everythings good. And everybody put down their flags and took their flags with them.

From Walzs end, he says the only reason the protestors were at his home in the first place was because Trump was encouraging them online. The tweet in question from Trump is: These THUGS are dishonoring the memory of George Floyd, and I wont let that happen. Just spoke to Governor Tim Walz and told him that the military is with him all the way. Any difficulty and we will assume control but, when the looting starts, the shooting starts. Thank you!

While the post violated the platforms rules as it pertains to glorifying violence online, the tweet is still up years later.

I cant stand back & watch this happen to a great American City, Minneapolis. A total lack of leadership. Either the very weak Radical Left Mayor, Jacob Frey, get his act together and bring the City under control, or I will send in the National Guard & get the job done right..  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 29, 2020

They took their American flags and their MAGA flags and they left, it was thousands of people, Trump told Fox News of the situation. That was the first time, I said, Wow, thats very interesting. He called me back and thanked me very much. Thats my only thing I ever had to do with him. The phone call exchange is one of the few conversations the two have had, per Walzs interview with Politico reporters Alexander Burns and Jonathan Martin.

This is just one of the many remarks that have been made between Trump-Vance and the Harris-Walz campaigns. Also on Wednesday, Vance clapped back at Walz for making fun of the now-debunked rumors that Vance had relations with a couch.

The post Trump Says He Could Not Be More Thrilled About Harris Choosing Walz: A Shocking Pick | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
Trump says San Francisco was the best city in our country 20 years ago

(KRON)  While San Francisco has become something of a punching bag for Republicans in recent years, presidential nominee Donald Trump said he used to consider it the best city in the United States.

In an interview with streamer Adin Ross on Monday, Trump said San Francisco was the best city in the country 20 years ago, before his presidential opponent Kamala Harris destroyed it with her policies.

Tim Walz: San Francisco is just the greatest

San Francisco was the best city in our country 20 years ago, Trump said. And now, frankly, its not even livable.

Harris took over as San Francisco District Attorney in 2004, a position she held through 2011. Gavin Newsom was the citys mayor for that time.

Trump also took aim at the California law that states retail thefts are prosecuted as a felony only if the value of the stolen items exceeds $950.

Photo of fake sign in downtown SF appearing to mock CA retail theft law goes viral

You see these people go in with like calculators, Trump said. And theyre adding the stuff that theyre stealing. Because if they get nabbed theyll say its less than whatever (the law) is  $1,000 dollars.

Trump claimed Harris was behind the law. She was the state Attorney General when it was passed in 2014.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Former President Trump has softened his tone on electric vehicles (EVs) following his backing from Teslas Elon Musk.

Over the weekend, Trump said, Im for electric cars. I have to be, because Elon endorsed me very strongly. So I have no choice.

Trump, who has frequently railed against policies that support electric vehicles, is still expected to oppose environmental regulations put forward by the Biden administration.

He clarified during his Atlanta rally that he only supports EVs for a small slice, adding, You want to have gas-propelled cars, you want to have hybrids, you want to have every kind of a car imaginable.

Trump made similarly positive remarks in Michigan, saying, Ive driven them and they are incredible, but theyre not for everybody.

The expressions of support for EVs begs the question about the extent to which Musk  and his significant fortune  will move Trump on the issue.

I would expect that a Trump posture would not be forcing the traditional automakers into mandates that require them to do EVs, but there could be tax incentives which would be beneficial to Tesla, Republican strategist Jason Cabel Roe said.

Neither the Trump campaign nor Tesla responded to The Hills request for comment. Trump said last month that Musk hadnt pressured him to lay off his criticism of electric cars.

Yet, the former presidents ambivalent cadence this past weekend stands in stark contrast to previous remarks about EVs. He infamously warned in March that reelecting the Democratic candidate would result in a blood bath for the auto industry.

The shift follows Musks endorsement.

The Wall Street Journal has reported that the pair have discussed an advisory role for Musk in a second Trump administration and that Musk would give $45 million per month to a pro-Trump PAC.

Musk, the richest person in the world, has denied committing that sum, saying hed be making donations at a much lower level.

Previously, Trump has lambasted not only a Biden rule expected to push the market toward more EVs, but also tax incentives for consumers, lamenting the current administration is spending hundreds of billions of dollars to give $7,500 tax credits to rich people who buy electric cars.

Well, I like Elon, but the car.  Im all for them if you want to go to the candy store, buy yourself a little candy and come back home, Trump said earlier this year. But if you want to take a trip to a place like Mar-a-Lago to say hello to me, you better get yourself a different mode of transportation.

His distaste for the vehicles has been part of a broader effort to court autoworkers and other blue-collar workers in the Midwest.

Sam Abuelsamid, principal analyst for transportation and mobility at Guidehouse Insights, told The Hill that Tesla, like other automakers, benefits from a consumer tax credit for EVs that President Biden signed into law in 2022.

In fact, Abuelsamid said eliminating a tax credit for EVs would likely hurt Tesla more than other automakers in the short term, because at least other manufacturers have other products that they can sell while Tesla exclusively sells EVs.

Not only would Tesla benefit if the credit remained in place, Abuelsamid said, the company would also benefit from leeway in its implementation.

I suspect that hell want to keep those rules as flexible as possible, he said.

However, Musk himself has posted online that removing the subsidy will only help Tesla.

Meanwhile, Trump is still sharply criticizing another Biden policy that Abuelsamid said could benefit Tesla: federal funds for EV chargers.

Trump lamented that billions of dollars were set aside for the effort, while just a small number of chargers have been built thus far.

The whole thing is crazy, he told the crowd in Atlanta.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her vice presidential pick Tim Walz embarked on a bus tour through western Pennsylvania on Sunday, one day ahead of the Democratic National Convention.

Joined by their spouses, Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz, the Democratic running ticket took a road trip through a traditionally red area of the state, promoting unity and positivity as the foundation of their campaign.

Harris and Walz spoke with prospective voters over the phone, gave a stump speech to supporters, met with members of a local firehouse and addressed a high school football team.

The team then headed to Chicago for the first day of the DNC on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Trump campaign is planning counter-programming events to draw attention away from the convention. Allies of the former president plan to hold events at the Trump hotel over four days.

At the same time, Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, will hold rallies in key swing states.

Key Points

Harriss Pennsylvania bus tour remarks are a stark contrast to Trumps

DNC schedule: When Kamala Harris, Tim Walz, Michelle Obama and more will speak

Trumpworld plans DNC counter-program

Check out the latest 2024 polls

Watch: Tim Walz joins TikTok with guest appearance from dog Scout

Sunday 18 August 2024 03:00 , Holly Patrick

Supreme Court upholds states block on protections for trans students

Sunday 18 August 2024 05:00 , Ariana Baio

Twenty-six states will be permitted to maintain their block on the Biden administrations new rules intended to protect transgender students from discrimination, the Supreme Court ruled on Friday.

In an emergency order, all nine justices upheld a ruling by lower courts in Louisiana and Kentucky that allowed the states to temporarily pause the new rules as legal proceedings on the matter continue.

The new rules, which were unveiled by the Biden administration in 2021, redefined sex discrimination in Title IX to include sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

Ariana Baio reports:

Supreme Court upholds states block on protections for trans students

Harris campaign books largest ever digital ad blitz in $200m effort to reach voters on their phones

Sunday 18 August 2024 07:00 , Ariana Baio

Vice President Kamala Harriss campaign is reaching out to potential voters through cellphones and streaming platforms, reserving more than $200 million for digital advertising, a memo from the campaign announced.

The Harris-Walz campaign revealed on Saturday that the investment in digital ads will take up the majority of the $370 million they have reserved for advertising  only $170 million will be geared toward television ads.

For nine weeks, ads will air on popular digital platforms like Hulu, Roku, YouTube and Spotify  mainly focused in battleground states. It does not include spending on social media.

The campaign said they believed it was the largest digital ad reservation in American politics. Streaming has become more popular than traditional television over the last few years.

Trump swerves between economic remarks and personal insults at campaign rally

Sunday 18 August 2024 07:32 , Vishwam Sankaran

Former president Donald Trump swerved from prepared remarks on the economic policies of the Biden-Harris administration and ad-hoc personal insults towards vice president Kamala Harris during his campaign speech last night in northeastern Pennsylvania.

This was his second rally in the state since the attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Republican Presidential Candidate former US President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza on August 17, 2024 in Wilkes Barre (Getty Images)

In his speech, he attacked Harris on the US economy by associating the vice president with the Biden administrations inflation woes, as well as criticising Harris plans to stop price gouging as going full communist.

Food prices have increased by nearly 20 per cent under the Biden-Harris administration and Harris said she would enact a federal ban on price gouging in the food industry.

Republican Presidential Candidate former US president Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza on August 17, 2024 in Wilkes Barre (Getty Images)

Trump asked why the vice president hadnt solved inflation when she was already in office since 2021.

Day one for Kamala was three and a half years ago. So why didnt she do it then? Trump said, part of a scripted attack on Democrats for inflation. Republican strategists believe economic troubles represent one of the major issues where voters could trust Trump over Harris.

He then swerved away into conspiracies and personal comments, however. You dont mind if I go off teleprompter for a second, do you? Joe Biden hates her, the former president said, before describing Bidens decision to step down in favour of Harris as the 2024 candidate as a coup.

Trump boasts of dominating China and Russia with Space Force at rally

Sunday 18 August 2024 07:52 , Vishwam Sankaran

At yesterdays campaign rally in northeastern Pennsylvania former president and Republican nominee Donald Trump boasted of his administrations achievements in rebuilding the military.

We came up with a new and very important organisation  to put it mildly  first time since the air force in 80 years we have the space force, Trump said.

We took space where we were languishing, falling way behind China and Russia and now were dominating them, the former president claimed.

Republican Presidential Candidate former U.S. President Donald Trump pumps his fist after speaking during a campaign rally at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza on August 17 (Getty Images)

He said the space force would end up becoming one of our truly important agencies.

It already is, Trump said.

Though signed into law by Trump in 2019, the initiative to create the USs space force was developed over decades, and not a partisan programme, according to the New York Times. Formed to bring the various areas of expertise and responsibility for matters relating to space within a single military command centre, its budget is set to reach $30bn this year.

Trump calls Biden-Harris student loan forgiveness plan 'communist takeover'

Sunday 18 August 2024 08:14 , Vishwam Sankaran

Donald Trump called the Biden-Harris administrations decision to forgive college student debt a communist takeover of the US.

What theyre doing is a communist takeover of the country...They are a threat to democracy, Trump said at the Pennsylvania rally.

He claimed he would control inflation and would make America affordable again

Her radical liberal policies, of course, horrific inflation decimated the middle class and gutted the finances of millions of American families, Trump said, attacking Harris economic plans.

Republican Presidential Candidate former U.S. President Donald Trump watches as Daniel Campos speaks about his life in Venezuela during a campaign rally at Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza on August 17, 2024 in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania (Getty Images)

The former president at one point during the rally handed over the microphone to pilot Daniel Campo, a former Venezuela resident whose family fled from Cuba and then Venezuela to arrive in the US in 2007.

We are going on a path that is taking us to what Venezuela became so the only way we can avoid keep going down that path is making Trump president again, Campo said to a crowd that started chanting U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A

In photos: Donald Trump campaigns in Pennsylvania

Sunday 18 August 2024 09:00 , Ariana Baio

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (AP)

The crowd at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Wilkes-Barre PA (AP)

Disgraced congressman George Santos expected to take plea deal in fraud case

Sunday 18 August 2024 10:00 , Ariana Baio

George Santos, the former Republican congressman ousted amid a series of scandals, is reportedly set to accept a plea deal in his federal criminal case in order to avoid a trial, lawyers involved in the case and those familiar with the matter said.

The disgraced lawmaker is expected to enter a guilty plea to the judge overseeing his case, District Judge Joanna Seybert, on Monday at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, New York, sources told Talking Points Memo, CNN, The New York Times and other outlets.

Ariana Baio reports:

Disgraced congressman George Santos expected to take plea deal

Florida college trashed hundreds of books  including many focusing on LGBTQ and race issues

Sunday 18 August 2024 12:00 , Josh Marcus

Hundreds of books, including scores about LGBTQ+ issues, race and activism, were left in a dumpster and parking lot of a public Florida university on Thursday, angering members of the academic community.

Photos and videos show hundreds of books in dumpsters. The university claimed it was part of routine maintenance, but in the past students had the chance to purchase books being taken out of circulation.

The scene comes as Florida Governor Ron DeSantiss continues his campaign to change New College of Florida, a state college with a reputation for being progressive. DeSantis has also signed legislation that targets certain books in school libraries.

Josh Marcus reports:

Florida college trashed hundreds of books  many focusing on LGBTQ and race issues

Harris campaign will embark on bus tour

Sunday 18 August 2024 13:00 , Ariana Baio

The Harris-Walz campaign will embark on a bus tour today to speak with voters across Pennsylvania before the campaign heads to the Democratic National Convention.

Vice President Kamala Harris, First Gentleman Doug Emoff, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minnesota First Lady Gwen Walz will meet with potential voters and speak about the Biden-Harris administrations record.

The bus tour is expected to begin in Pittsburgh and make various stops throughout the day in Allegheny and Beaver Counties  crucial battleground areas of the state.

Trump yet again brings up Harriss appearance  claiming hes better looking

Sunday 18 August 2024 13:34 , Rachel Sharp

Donald Trump has yet again brought up the appearance of his Democratic rival Kamala Harris  this time claiming hes better looking than her.

At his campaign rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, the former president spoke about the recent Time magazine front cover featuring the vice president.

Time Magazine doesnt have a picture of her. They have this unbelievable artist drawing her, he said.

They took a lot of pictures that didnt work out so they hired a sketch artist.

He then went on to claim that he is the better looking of the two presidential candidates.

I am much better looking than her, he said.

Im a better-looking person than Kamala.

Moment Trump confuses Pennsylvania for North Carolina as he campaigns in swing state

Sunday 18 August 2024 13:55 , Rachel Sharp

Trump: "Would that be ok, North Carolina?" (Trump is in Pennsylvania.) pic.twitter.com/KHCs5Kny3c  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 17, 2024

Harris and Walz hold bus tour in Pennsylvania day before DNC

Sunday 18 August 2024 14:15 , Rachel Sharp

Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are holding a bus tour in western Pennsylvania today  one day before the Democratic National Convention gets underway in Chicago.

The presidential and vice presidential candidates will be joined by their spouses Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz for the event, pitted as the On the Road to Chicago tour.

Heres the details of the schedule:

12.30pm ET  Stop in Pittsburgh

2.25pm ET  Stop in Rochester

7.30pm ET  Leave Pittsburgh for Chicago

Trump rambles... about not rambling

Sunday 18 August 2024 14:35 , Rachel Sharp

Trump: Theyll say he was rambling. I dont ramble. Im a really smart guy. You know, Im really smart. I dont ramble.pic.twitter.com/HWmMJRBFyj  Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) August 18, 2024

Trump announces plans to campaign in Howell  one month after white supremacists held march in Michigan city

Sunday 18 August 2024 14:55 , Rachel Sharp

Donald Trump has announced a campaign stop in Howell next week  one month after white supremacists held a march in the Michigan city.

In a press release from the Trump campaign, the former president revealed plans to speak about crime and safety at the Livingston County Sheriffs office in Howell Tuesday August 20.

The announcement instantly sparked backlash due to the locations longstanding ties to white supremacists.

Trump just announced a crime and safety rally for next Tuesday in Howell, Michigan, a town that has been heavily associated with the KKK for decades. Indeed, just late last month White Supremacists marched in the town chanting We love Hitler. We love Trump. Some but not all  Anthony Scaramucci (@Scaramucci) August 18, 2024

I knew who I could go to: How Tim Walz gave his queer high school students a refuge

Sunday 18 August 2024 15:15 , Rachel Sharp

Before he was Kamala Harriss running mate, the Minnesota governor was a geography teacher, coach and faculty adviser for a gay-straight alliance at Mankota West High School.

His former students tell Alex Woodward about their unlikely ally, and why dozens are now campaigning for him:

How Tim Walz gave his queer high school students a refuge

Planned Parenthood to run mobile health center offering free vasectomies and abortion care near DNC

Sunday 18 August 2024 15:35 , Rachel Sharp

A mobile health center offering free vasectomies and abortion care will be available near the Democratic National Convention.

Planned Parenthood Great Rivers, which offers reproductive healthcare in Missouri and parts of Illinois, is planning to park its mobile clinic blocks from the Chicagop convention center.

Services are on offer to those making an appointment  delegates or not.

On Saturday, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers announced that all appointments for its free vasectomy and medication abortions had now been filled.

The move comes as abortion rights are already on the ballots in several states this November.

Can Kamala Harris beat Donald Trump? Check out the latest poll updates

Sunday 18 August 2024 15:55 , Rachel Sharp

Heres what the latest polls say about the 2024 presidential election, from the Independents data correspondent Alicja Hagopian:

Can Kamala Harris beat Donald Trump? Latest poll updates from the 2024 election

Republican Lindsey Graham admits Trump the provocateur, the showman, may not win this election

Sunday 18 August 2024 16:15 , Rachel Sharp

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has admitted that Donald Trump the provocateur, the showman, may not win this election in a candid interview on Sunday morning.

President Trump can win this election. His policies are good for America, and if you have a policy debate for president, he wins. Donald Trump the provocateur, the showman, may not win this election, Graham said on NBC News Meet the Press.

Im looking for President Trump to show up in the last 80 days to define what he will do for our country, to fix broken borders, to lower inflation.

His comments come as several Republicans have urged Trump to change his strategy and stop the personal attacks on Kamala Harris.

Graham added that he and Nikki Haley are giving advice on TV to president Trump.

Hes got a lot of critics. Hes got a lot of advisers, but to Nikki Haley and DeSantis and Youngkin and all these great people we have, lets get together and actually campaign for the guy, he said.

Lindsey Graham: "Donald Trump the provocateur, the showman, may not win this election." pic.twitter.com/g1RHToX8Xb  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 18, 2024

Watch live: Harris and Walz tour Pennsylvania ahead of Democratic National Convention

Sunday 18 August 2024 16:16 , Ariana Baio

- YouTube

How Kamala Harris became Donald Trumps supertroll and found his weak spot

Sunday 18 August 2024 16:35 , Rachel Sharp

A few days ago, a post on Twitter/X from @KamalaHQ, Vice President Kamala Harriss presidential campaigns official rapid response page, contained a video clip of former president Donald Trump talking about how hed never been given the credit he deserved for tackling Covid. The caption read: Trump: I never got credit for COVID and then underneath (over a million Americans died and he told us to inject bleach). Another post by @KamalaHQ was from Trumps recent press conference at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club. Trump spends his economy speech complaining about Kamala Harris being on the cover of TIME magazine.

And during last weeks calamitous interview between Trump and Elon Musk on X/Twitter, the Harris campaign trolled him in real time, pointing out that Trump argued climate change wasnt a problem because hell have more oceanfront property.

Alex Hannaford writes:

How Kamala Harris became Donald Trumps supertroll and found his weak spot

Marjorie Taylor Greene slams move to offer free vasectomies and abortions near DNC truly heartbreaking

Sunday 18 August 2024 16:55 , Rachel Sharp

MAGA lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene has slammed the move to offer free vasectomies and abortions near the DNC calling it truly heartbreaking.

Planned Parenthood Great Rivers, which offers reproductive healthcare in Missouri and parts of Illinois, is planning to park its mobile clinic blocks from the Chicagop convention center.

Services are on offer to those making an appointment  delegates or not.

On Saturday, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers announced that all appointments for its free vasectomy and medication abortions had now been filled.

The move comes as abortion rights are already on the ballots in several states this November.

I thought this was fake but its not.



Planned Parenthood is going to provide free vasectomies and abortions at the Democrat National Convention this upcoming week.



Its hard to even comprehend and its truly heartbreaking.



Being a mother is the most precious gift, choose life. pic.twitter.com/lHGtwjVJ2Y  Marjorie Taylor Greene  (@mtgreenee) August 18, 2024

JD Vance uses Jeffrey Epstein in an analogy about Harris and inflation

Sunday 18 August 2024 17:30 , Ariana Baio

Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance used Jeffrey Epstein and human trafficking as an analogy to compare Vice President Kamala Harris taking control over inflation.

While speaking with Shannon Bream on Fox News this morning, Vance attempted to undermine Harriss economic policies dramatically.

Giving Kamala Harris control over inflation policy, Shannon. Its like giving Jeffrey Epstein control over human trafficking policy, Vance said.

Epstein was a sex offender who notoriously cultivated a circle of high-profile individuals to participate in sexually abusing women and children.

She is more of the same. It is doubling down on the failed policies of the Harris administration to give Kamala Harris a promotion rather than to fire her, Vance said.

JD Vance: "Giving Kamala Harris control over inflation policy, it's like giving Jeffrey Epstein control over human trafficking policy."



(Peep the expression on Shannon Bream's face as he says this.) pic.twitter.com/mS8sCLsLOY  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 18, 2024

Willie Brown threatens to sue Trump over fake story of near-fatal helicopter ride

Sunday 18 August 2024 18:00 , James Liddell , Graig Graziosi

Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown has threatened to sue Donald Trump after the former president told an allegedly completely fictitious story about him.

During a lie-filled press conference at Mar-a-Lago earlier this month, the former president recounted what now appears to be a tall tale about a helicopter ride he claims he once took with Brown.

Well, I know Willie Brown very well. In fact, I went down in a helicopter with him. We thought, maybe this is the end, Trump said. We were in a helicopter going to a certain location together, and there was an emergency landing.

Not long after Trump had finished speaking, Brown rubbished every single aspect of his story from the helicopter ride together to him criticizing Harris.

Now, Brown has said he might sue the former president over the allegedly false story because somebody has got to make sure that he stops lying.

If he keeps it up, at some point, Im going to give him a taste of his own conduct, Brown told CBS News. If he sues The New York Times for printing that I said he lied, Im going to sue him.

Harris arrives in Pittsburgh

Sunday 18 August 2024 18:23 , Ariana Baio

Vice President Kamala Harris has arrived in Pittsburgh to embark on her bus tour around Allegheny County before heading to the DNC.

A small crowd of supporters have been waiting for Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, to arrive in the Keystone State. The crowd is nestled in between the two buses that will take the Harris-Walz campaign for the day.

Supporters hold signs before Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris arrives at Pittsburgh International Airport, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, in Pittsburgh (AP)

Harris-Walz kick off campaign meeting with voters

Sunday 18 August 2024 18:53 , Ariana Baio

Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz kicked off their bus tour around Pennsylvania by meeting with voters in Pittsburgh.

Harris, joined by her husband Doug Emoff, and Walz, joined by his wife Gwen Walz, arrived to dreary skies but brought lots of smiles and waves as they shook hands with people who greeted the campaign.

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, left, Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, right, and his wife Gwen Walz arrive at Pittsburgh International Airport (AP)

Chants of Kamala and Were not going back erupted throughout the small crowd of people during Harris and Walzs brief visit. Neither Harris nor Walz gave official remarks

Harris, Emoff, Walz and Gwen Walz took a selfie shortly before boarding the campaign bus to go meet with other potential voters.

US Vice President Kamala Harris, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, and Minnesota Governor and Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz wave to supporters upon arrival at Pittsburgh International Airport in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, (AFP via Getty Images)

Tammy Duckworth rebukes Trumps comments about Medal of Honor recipients

Sunday 18 August 2024 19:20 , Ariana Baio

Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois said Donald Trump doesnt deserve to be commander in chief after the former president downplayed awards given to veterans for their actions in combat.

Her comments in response to the former president speaking about giving the Presidential Medal of Freedom to one of his megadonors in 2018.

Its the equivalent of the Congressional Medal of Honor, but civilian version. Its actually much better, because everyone gets the Congressional Medal of Honor  thats soldiers. Theyre either in very bad shape because theyve been hit so many times by bullets, or theyre dead, Trump said.

Duckworth, a veteran of the Iraq War, called Trump despicable.

Donald Trump is despicable. He doesnt deserve to be commander in chief.



Sen. Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq War veteran wounded in combat, reacts after former Pres. Trumps description of Medal of Honor recipients sparks backlash. https://t.co/ktVCvHyfPZ pic.twitter.com/UZaX1UtBV5  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) August 18, 2024

Trumpworld plans to counter-program the DNC

Sunday 18 August 2024 19:50 , John Bowden

Republicans aligned with Donald Trump will join the hordes of Democrats descending on Chicago this week as the Trump campaign continues to look for a way to blunt Kamala Harriss momentum.

Trumps Chicago hotel will become the epicenter of the Republican world as his allies including Florida Senator Rick Scott and his colleague in the House, Byron Donalds, are among those who will lead the GOPs efforts to counter-program the Democratic convention. Themes of the four-day event at the Trump hotel will include crime and the economy, and will mirror issues being spoken about at the DNC in order to drive home the GOP message.

Trump himself will rally in Las Vegas in Friday for his second event focused on an economic message in as many weeks after several other events over the course of several days.

Harriss rally remarks are a stark contrast to Trumps

Sunday 18 August 2024 20:16 , Ariana Baio

In Beaver County, Pennsylvania, Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted her campaigns desire to build community and bring people together out of love for the United States  a noticeable contrast to Donald Trumps remarks in which he often calls the US a failing country

This campaign here is born out of our love for this country, Harris told a group of supporters on the second stop of her Pennsylvania bus tour.

Harris repeated her desire to reinforce communities who have felt political divide. She expressed hope and positivity for the future.

That message is quite different from Trump who yesterday in Pennsylvania warned that the US was a country in decline and that World War III and a Great Depression were on the horizon.

In Pennsylvania Harris takes calls from voters

Sunday 18 August 2024 20:45 , Ariana Baio

Making their way around Pennsylvania, the Harris-Walz campaign made a stop at their field office in Beaver County to take calls from prospective voters.

Vice President Kamala Harris, Second Gentleman Doug Emoff, Governor Tim Walz, and Gwen Walz took calls before giving a stump speech to attendees.

Democratic presidential candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff telephone prospective voters from the campaign field office (REUTERS)

Trump shares AI-generated photo of Harris as USSR leader

Sunday 18 August 2024 21:15 , Ariana Baio

Donald Trump continued to invoke his strategy of attacking Vice President Kamala Harris by sharing an AI-generated photo of what looks like Harris presiding over an army of USSR soldiers in Chicago.

The former president shared the image on Truth Social on Saturday evening. It had no caption on it but elluded to a statement he made during his Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

In her speech yesterday, Kamala went full communist. You heard that? She went full communist, Trump told a crowd of supporters in Wilkes-Barre.

He compared her policies to that of a communist country  like the Soviet Union.

Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image of Kamala Harris presiding over a USSR-like rally after calling her a communist during a rally speech (Donald Trump / Truth Social)

Harris-Walz campaign visits firehouse in Aliquippa

Sunday 18 August 2024 21:25 , Ariana Baio

For their next stop on the Pennsylvania bus tour, Kamala Harris, Doug Emhoff Tim Walz and Gwen Walz are at a firehouse in Aliquippa.

After departing from the bus, the group shook hands with members of the local fire department (and the paw of the firehouse dog) and spoke with the group.

(AFP via Getty Images)

Watch: Harris and Walz tour Pennsylvania ahead of Democratic National Convention

Sunday 18 August 2024 22:00 , Ariana Baio

Walz taps into old coaching days to give inspiration speech to high school football team

Sunday 18 August 2024 22:15 , Ariana Baio

Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz put his coaching jacket on while addressing a group of high school football players about the importance of unity and positivity on Sunday, as part of the campaigns bus tour through Pennsylvania.

At Aliquippa High School, Vice President Kamala Harris, Second Gentleman Doug Emoff and Walz spoke with a group of high school football players about the future of the country.

The group of young athletes sat and listened as Walz reminded them of the importance of unity and functioning as a team both on and off the field.

Politics isnt that much different than this. Its about something bigger than themselves, its about setting up a future goal and trying to reach it, Walz said.

Its about doing it with dignity and hard work. Its about doing it with humility and when you lose, you walk across the field and you shake hands with the other team and know they played hard too, Walz continued.

Walz is often referred to as coach  a reference to his days of coaching high school football.

Trumpworlds DNC counter-programming plans

Sunday 18 August 2024 22:48 , John Bowden

Republicans will join the swathes of Democrats descending on Chicago this week as Trumpworld tries to find a way to blunt Kamala Harriss momentum.

As the four-day Democratic National Convention gets underway in the Windy City, Donald Trump and his allies are making plans for counter-programming to the event.

Trumps Chicago hotel will become the epicenter of the Republican world as his allies including Florida Senator Rick Scott and his colleague in the House, Byron Donalds, are among those who will lead the GOPs efforts to counter-program the convention.

Themes of the four-day event at the Trump hotel will include immigration, crime and the economy, and will mirror issues being spoken about at the DNC in order to drive home the Republican partys message.

John Bowden reports:

Trumpworlds DNC counter-programming plans revealed

Harris campaign slams Trump for planning rally in Michigan town with long ties to KKK

Sunday 18 August 2024 23:00 , John Bowden

Kamala Harriss campaign has slammed Donald Trump for planning a rally in a Michigan town with long ties to the Ku Klux Klan and white supremacists.

On Saturday, a spokesperson for the Harris campaign savaged the Republican tickets choice of venue arguing that Trump is making an appeal to the white nationalists who marched against Jews and other minorities in Charlottesville in 2017  a moment which led to Trump controversially praising demonstrators and counterprotesters at a press conference.

The racists and white supremacists who marched in Trumps name last month in Howell have all watched him praise Hitler, defend neo-Nazis in Charlottesville, and tell far-right extremists to stand back and stand by. Trumps actions have encouraged them, and Michiganders can expect more of the same when he comes to town next week, the Michigan communications director for the Harris campaign, Alyssa Bradley, told The Washington Post.

John Bowden reports:

Harris campaign slams Trump for planning rally in Michigan town with long ties to KKK

Tim Walz posts selfie ahead of bus tour

Monday 19 August 2024 00:00 , Ariana Baio

Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential candidate, shared two selfies of himself, his wife Gwen Walz, Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emoff shortly before they boarded buses to take them around Pennsylvania.

Road trip, Walz wrote in the caption of his post.

How Tim Walz gave his queer high school students a refuge

01:00 , Alex Woodward

A straight, football-coaching National Guardsman wasnt the LGBT+ ally that Seth Elliot Meyer expected.

But Meyer, who came out as queer in his freshman year of high school in 2000, admits he was wrong about Tim Walz.

I just sort of naively believed that someone who was a big, masculine dude with a deep voice was never someone whos going to be on my side, Meyer says.

As much as those younger students who were courageous enough to be out in those years, it was just as important to have those very kind of normal, strong, straight, masculine allies backing us up.

Before he was governor of Minnesota, before he was a member of Congress, and before he was a candidate for the next vice president of the United States, he was Mr Walz, a geography teacher at Mankato West High School, roughly 80 miles south of Minneapolis.

Read more from Alex Woodward here

Trump obsesses over Harriss Time magazine cover declaring hes better looking than her

03:00 , Ariana Baio

During his appearance in the crucial swing state, the former president dedicated some time to mocking Harriss Time magazine cover by insinuating the depiction made her look better.

Ariana Baio reports:

Trump claims hes better looking than Harris as he obsesses over Time cover again

Who is on the DNC schedule?

05:00 , Ariana Baio

The Democratic National Convention gets underway on Monday August 19 in Chicago, Illinois, with some political heavyweights slated to headline the four-day gathering.

While the DNC is first and foremost a presidential nominating convention, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz are already officially on the Democratic partys ticket after a five-day round of online voting from delegates wrapped on August 5.

But there were still be speeches from Democratic leaders like President Joe Biden, former president Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Jason Carter, the grandson of Jimmy Carter.

Find out more about who is on the DNC schedule here

Tim Walz emphasizes unity in campaign stump speech

07:00 , Ariana Baio

This campaign is a chance to bring out that joy, turn the page and look to the future, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz told supporters on Sunday in Pennsylvania.

In a short stump speech, Walz told young people that the Harris-Walz campaign is an opportunity to see the positive side of America and come together.

Some of us who have less hair are old enough to remember when you could go to Thanksgiving to watch a Steelers game with your relatives and not complain about politics the whole time. We shared a commitment to democracy, Walz said.

We dont call each other names, we dont do it. And we dont use the least fortunate among us as punchlines for jokes because they are our neighbors, he added.

Gov. Walz: Some of us who have less hair are old enough to remember when you could go to Thanksgiving or watch a Steelers game with your relatives and not complain about politics the whole time. We shared a commitment to democracy. We don't call each other names. This campaign is pic.twitter.com/Dn4JZ3ISJy  Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) August 18, 2024

JD Vance compares Harris to Jeffrey Epstein and claims polls showing Trump losing are fake

08:00 , John Bowden

JD Vance likened Vice President Kamala Harris to pedophile Jeffrey Epstein in a wild interview on Sunday, where he also claimed that polls showing him and Donald Trump losing are fake.

John Bowden reports:

JD Vance wildly compares Kamala Harris to Jeffrey Epstein
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan visits Arish, Egypt, on August 4. Fidan said on Wednesday that Turkey asked to join South Africa's genocide case against Israel with the International Court of Justice. Photo by Mohamed Arafat/EPA-EFE

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Turkey filed papers to the International Court of Justice on Wednesday to join South Africa's genocide case against Israel in connection with its war in Gaza.

Turkey became the first member of NATO to take the position in the ICJ against Israel, which possibly could pressure the Jewish state to come to a cease-fire agreement with Hamas in the 10-month war.

Turkey's news agency Anadolu reported that a delegation from the country, including its ambassador to The Hague, Selcuk Unal, filed the document to join the suit.

"[Turkey's] decision to intervene reflects the importance our country attaches to resolving the Palestinian issue within the framework of law and justice," Turkey's foreign ministry said, according to Al Jazeera. "The conscience of humanity and international law will hold Israeli officials accountable."

Turkey Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on social media that the other countries must step in to demand action.

"Emboldened by the impunity it has received for its crimes, Israel is killing more and more innocent Palestinians every day," Fidan said on X. "The international community must do its part to stop the genocide and put the necessary pressure on Israel and its supporters. Turkey will make every effort on this path."

In December, South Africa filed a case in the ICJ accusing Israel of genocide in its occupation of Gaza. Israel has denied the charge, saying it has the right to defend itself against Hamas, which started the altercation with an attack on Israel last October.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story incorrectly identified Turkey as a member of the European Union.
Heavy smoke billows following an Israeli military strike, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas militant group Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Turkey on Wednesday formally submitted its bid to join South Africa's genocide case against Israel over the Gaza war at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus announced.

"We will continue our efforts to have Israel tried in international courts for the crime of genocide and to receive the harshest punishment it deserves for the crimes committed by Netanyahu and his gang," Kurtulmus wrote on social media platform X.

At the end of December, South Africa took Israel to the top UN court in The Hague for alleged violations of the Genocide Convention.

South Africa contends that Israel is committing "systematic" acts of genocide in Gaza, citing examples of military violence and statements by Israeli politicians and military brass.

Israel has denounced the lawsuit as "wholly unfounded."

At the end of May, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to immediately end the controversial military operation in Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip.

In addition to Turkey, several other countries, including Spain as the first EU country, have joined the lawsuit.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused Israel of "genocide" over its war against Hamas, the militant group which launched an unprecedented attack on October 7 that left some 1,200 people dead in Israel.

Erdogan has good relations with Hamas.

In a statement on its Telegram channel, Hamas welcomed Turkey's decision, adding: "We call on all countries of the world, especially Arab and Islamic countries, to take an immediate step by joining the case filed before the ICJ."

Ten months on from Israel's air and ground offensive, the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza says more than 39,600 people have died in the Palestinian territory.

Heavy smoke billows following an Israeli military strike, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas militant group Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL)  Tusculum University and Walters State Community College (WSCC) held a ceremony on Wednesday to celebrate a new agreement that offers WSCC students with associate degrees a seamless transfer to the university.

The seamless transition aims to reduce the number of general education courses required at Tusculum, aside from a mandatory course in both religion and civic studies.

The two institutions will provide specialized guidance for WSCC students planning to transfer to Tusculum and coordinate academic and administrative aspects across various programs. Additionally, the agreement offers an option for students to enroll in both institutions simultaneously.

Washington County Schools to participate in Child and Adult Care Food Program

Partnering with WSCC on this student-focused agreement will greatly benefit those who want to further their education with a bachelors degree, said Dr. Scott Hummel, Tusculums president. Students will receive an excellent foundation in subjects at WSCC that will be supplemented with an outstanding upperclassman experience at Tusculum. That will prepare them to be career-ready professionals. We are grateful to WSCC for teaming with us to strengthen the pathway for students to earn their four-year degree.

The agreement especially benefits students interested in business or teaching. Those who earn an associate degree in applied science or accounting from WSCC can then pursue a bachelors degree in business administration from Tusculum. Students who earn an associate degree in teaching from WSCC can obtain a bachelors degree in an education program at Tusculum.

The agreement includes a pathway for many associates to bachelors degree programs. WSCC offers 150 areas of study, while Tusculum provides 60 major, minor, online and certificate programs in liberal arts and pre-professional curriculum.

This agreement increases the opportunities available for our students, said Dr. Tony Miksa, president of WSCC. WSCC students have always been welcomed at Tusculum, and this agreement makes the transition easier. On behalf of WSCC, thank you to Dr. Hummel and his administration for their willingness to work together to make the transfer process seamless for our students.

Dr. Brock Fisher, vice president of academic affairs at WSCC, said the new agreement aligns with the colleges main focus, to collaborate with other institutions to promote access, competition and transfer.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  Twinkle Borge, a longtime resident and leader of Puuhonua O Waianae, passed away on Monday.

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In a statement released Tuesday, Puuhonua O Waianae acclaimed Borges lifelong commitment to service, noting her belief that kuleana wakes up the mana inside and her conviction that everyone, regardless of their status, has the potential to lead in their community.

Puuhonua O Waianae is a settlement of 200 homeless individuals near Waianae Boat Harbor on Oahus leeward coast. The village is a home to keiki, kupuna and working families.

Borge was affectionately known in the village as Mama, Puuhonua O Waianae wrote on their website.

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Governor Josh Green released a statement on Tuesday expressing admiration for Borge.

Auntie Twinkle Borge was an incredible inspiration to so many and proved to all of us, her inner belief that anyone, houseless or not, can be a community leader, Green said in the statement. Her Puuhonua O Waianae kauhale is actively being built and will put roofs over the heads of her Waianae Boat Harbor neighbors for generations to come.

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi also acknowledged Borges vision as a powerful advocate for Oahus houseless community.

She was more than just a leader; she was an inspiration and a relentless advocate who believed in every persons potential. Her legacy of kindness, resilience, and community building will continue to inspire us all, Blangiardi said in the statement released Tuesday morning. On behalf of the City and County of Honolulu, I extend my deepest condolences to Twinkles family, friends, and the entire Puuhonua O Waianae community. Her loss is felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The cause of Borges death has not been disclosed.

A memorial service to honor her life is planned for a later date.

Twinkle Borge will be profoundly missed, but her legacy of aloha, kindness, and community will live on. The Puuhonua O Waianaes statement read.

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.
ANSON COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Two Anson County men have pled guilty to Hobbs Act robberies and firearm charges, according to the United States Attorneys Office.

Brandon Drelle Wall, 35, and William Chavis Dunlap Jr., 29, pled guilty to a robbery at a sweepstakes business in Winston-Salem in June 2022 and another robbery in Liberty two months later. Officials say both suspects also pled guilty to one count of brandishing a firearm in connection with the robbery in Liberty.

Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area  >> Latest stories here

According to court documents, Wall and Dunlap wore masks and threatened employees with guns while trying to get into business safes. During the robbery in Liberty, Wall and Dunlap allegedly forced civilians to the floor at gunpoint.

The suspects stole a phone, a wallet, $1,400 and two guns from the robbery in Winston-Salem. A total of $8,650 was stolen from the robbery in Liberty.

Officials say after Wall was arrested, he admitted to robbing a gas station in Richmond County, and Dunlap admitted to robbing a discount store in Anson County.

Both Wall and Dunlap will have sentencing hearings in Greensboro on Oct. 31. Authorities say the two men also agreed to forfeit their interests in seven firearms with multiple magazines and rounds of ammunition.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Taylor Swift performs at London's Wembley Stadium as part of her Eras Tour in June. (Scott A Garfitt / Associated Press)

Taylor Swift's concerts in Austria have been canceled after authorities there announced the arrests of two people accused of plotting a terrorist attack in Vienna, with one of them focusing on the musician's stadium shows as a possible target.

On Wednesday, show organizer Barracuda Music announced on its website that Swift's three sold-out shows starting Thursday at Ernst Happel Stadium were being canceled as a precaution.

One of those arrested was a 19-year-old Austrian "with North Macedonian roots" who "lived with his family in Ternitz," south of Vienna, the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung reported. He was arrested "under strong suspicion of terrorism," the paper wrote.

Franz Ruf, public security director at Austrias Interior Ministry, said authorities were aware of preparatory actions for a possible attack and also that there is a focus ... on the Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna by the 19-year-old, the Austria Press Agency reported.

Ruf said the suspect is an Austrian citizen who had pledged an oath of allegiance to the Islamic State group and is believed to have become radicalized on the internet. Ruf said that chemical substances were secured and were being evaluated, but he didn't give details.

The other suspect was arrested in Vienna, according to the newspaper report. City officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

In 2017, a bomb attack at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England, killed 22 people and injured more than 100. A suicide bomber set up a backpack device in Manchester Arena at the end of the concert as thousands of young fans were leaving.

Last week in Southport, England, three children died in a knife attack during a Swift-themed dance class. A 17-year-old boy was arrested and prosecutors did not disclose a motive.

"These were just little kids at a dance class," Swift wrote in a statement on Instagram. "I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Security measures for Taylor Swift's concerts in Vienna, Austria, have been heightened this week following the arrest of two suspects allegedly involved in a terror plot, according to authorities.

The two men were arrested on Wednesday in connection with alleged plots to carry out attacks at major events in Vienna, Austria, including Taylor Swift's upcoming concerts.

Men Arrested In Connection To Terrorist Plot

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At a news conference on Wednesday, Vienna State Police Director Franz Ruf and Police Chief Gerhard Purstl revealed that one of the men arrested was a 19-year-old who allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS. The two men undertook "specific preparatory actions for a terrorist attack," with the 19-year-old specifically planning to target the Taylor Swift concerts.

Both suspects were said to have become radicalized online and were believed to have had specific and detailed plans for carrying out an attack.

According to the current status of the investigation, the two suspects became radicalized via the internet, Ruf said, per BBC. He added the 19-year-old made an oath of allegiance to Islamic State at the beginning of July.

Police Operations Unfolds Ahead Of Taylor Swift Concerts

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Kronen Zeitung, an Austrian newspaper, reported that one of the suspects is an Austrian of North Macedonian descent who lived with his family in Ternitz, per Fox.

A significant police operation unfolded in Ternitz, where the 19-year-old resided. Several nearby homes were evacuated as authorities conducted a search of his residence. According to NBC, upon the 19-year-olds arrest, a bomb squad reportedly discovered chemical substances.

Authorities are currently investigating whether these substances could have been used to construct a bomb. Austrias Cobra unit, akin to the FBIs Hostage Rescue Team, also played a role in the arrests.

Taylor Swift's Vienna Concert Sees Heightened Security Measures

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Taylor Swift is scheduled to perform in Vienna this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The concerts are anticipated to attract 65,000 attendees each day, with an additional 10,000 to 15,000 fans expected outside the venue, according to police.

A police official assured reporters that there were no plans to cancel the concerts, reassuring them that "the concrete danger has been minimized."

Enhanced security measures will be in place, including heavy weapons teams, K-9 units, bomb squads, and tactical vehicles. Fans should anticipate delays due to thorough visitor and vehicle checks by authorities.

Man Arrested After Threatening Two Kansas City Chiefs Players

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This latest report comes just days after a man who attended Morgan Wallens concert at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on August 3 was charged with a felony for making a terroristic threat against Kansas City Chiefs players, including stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, who were also at the event.

According to the prosecutors office, the Morgan Wallen concert was delayed by 40 minutes as Kansas City police detectives worked to track down and arrest the suspect, identified as Aaron Brown from Illinois.

Brown posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, threatening: "Mr. [redacted] at Arrowhead with the wife. If he brings out [redacted] or [redacted] I'll take the f-ckin shot. F-ck em! Also f-ck you b-tch!! (hand emoji with the middle finger up twice)."

He was arrested and questioned by investigators. It was a stupid, stupid, stupid mistake to post the threat he admitted.

Prosecutor Releases Statement Regarding Terrorist Threat Against Chiefs Players

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During the show, Wallen, dressed in a Chiefs jersey, invited Kelce and Mahomes onto the stage. The prosecutors statement reads: Aaron Brown of Winchester, Ill, faces a Class E felony of Making a Terroristic Threat in the 2nd Degree," per Variety. "According to court records, Kansas City police detectives and intelligence analysts in the Kansas City Fusion Center working at GEHA field at Arrowhead on Friday, Aug. 2, 2024, officers were monitoring threats at a planned concert when they observed on X (Twitter) a threat against two individuals, who were members of the Kansas City Chiefs organization, were present at the event."

Despite the presence of Travis Kelce, Patrick Mahomes, and Patricks wife, Brittany Mahomes, officials have not disclosed the specific identities of those who were threatened.

Brown is now facing a Class E felony charge of "making a terrorist threat in the 2nd degree." Although a $15,000 bond was initially set, prosecutors are now seeking a $250,000 cash bond.
Two arrests made after attacks planned at Swift concert in Vienna

A fan of the US singer Taylor Swift with a t-shirt reading the "Taylor Swift The Eras Tour" is seen at the Vienna Prater. Eva Manhart/APA/dpa

Two individuals have been arrested on suspicion of terrorism in Austria after allegedly planning attacks at the upcoming Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, Franz Ruf, director general for public security at the Austrian Interior Ministry, said on Wednesday.

The concerts are scheduled for Thursday and Friday.

Chemical substances were seized from a 19-year-old Austrian. The police, concerned about possible explosives, had pre-emptively evacuated houses and part of a nursing home.

The young man had become radicalized on the internet and reportedly pledged allegiance to the leadership of the terrorist organization Islamic State a few weeks ago, said Ruf.

According to police, he was arrested Wednesday morning in the town of Ternitz, 75 kilometres south-west of Vienna.

A second person was arrested in the afternoon in Vienna. The police provided no further details.

Heightened security checks will now be conducted at the Swift concerts, Vienna's Chief of Police Gerhard Purstl said on Wednesday.
Man found guilty in murder of PnB Rock, who was gunned down at Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles

Rapper PnB Rock poses in 2019 in New York City. The 30-year-old musician was gunned down in Los Angeles on Sept. 12, 2022. (Shareif Ziyadat / Getty Images)

For the record:

4:38 p.m. Aug. 7, 2024: An earlier version of this article stated that Tremont Jones and Freddie Lee Trone were found guilty of murder. Only Trone was convicted of murder.



Nearly two years after rapper PnB Rock was gunned down in a South Los Angeles restaurant during a robbery, a man was convicted of his murder.

Freddie Lee Trone was found guilty Wednesday by a jury in a Compton courtroom after deliberating for less than four hours, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney's office. In addition, Trone and another defendant, Tremont Jones, were convicted of two counts of robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery.

PnB Rock, 30  whose legal name was Rakim Allen  walked into the Roscoes House of Chicken & Waffles on Sept. 12, 2022, wearing "several hundred thousand dollars" worth of jewelry, prosecutors said. The bling caught the eye of Jones, who authorities say set in motion the deadly robbery.

Jones notified Trone about the potential mark. And Trone then sent his 17-year-old son, armed with a gun and a ski mask, into the eatery to steal Allen's jewelry, prosecutors said.

Authorities allege that the masked teen walked up to Allen while he was seated at a table, pulled a gun and demanded his jewelry and other valuables.

But Allen refused, prosecutors said, and that's when the teenager shot him first in the chest and then twice more in the back. The teen  who was not identified because of his age  then threatened to shoot Allen's fiancee, Stephanie Sibounheuang, and stole several pieces of jewelry from Allens body before fleeing the restaurant with his father, according to a criminal complaint filed against the boy weeks after the killing.

Read more: 'It's sad, it's frustrating, it's infuriating': Mourning the loss of slain rapper PnB Rock

After the verdict was read, Allen's mother, Deannea, told Rolling Stone, I wanted to jump up and scream, Hallelujah. Im so happy it was quick. We got justice for Rakim. I feel better knowing theyll be in jail for a long time.

Trone, 42, repeatedly denied his involvement in the shooting during the murder trial, according to the Associated Press.

I understand youre trying to put together your story, Trone testified during cross-examination on Monday. I never had nothing to do with it. I wasnt there. I didnt tell nobody to do nothing. I didnt hand nobody no gun.

He testified during the trial that he was at Roscoe's to drum up business for his beauty supply shop and buy marijuana.

Trone was the only defense witness called to the stand. He admitted that the robbery was "heinous" and that his son, who has not been tried yet, was "dangerous," according to reporting from the AP.

Deputy Dist. Atty. Timothy Richardson emphasized during the trial that even someone who doesn't pull the trigger can be guilty of felony murder when they are a major participant who acted with reckless indifference to human life.

A robbery is inherently dangerous, Richardson said. Its up close and personal.

Both men will be sentenced on Aug. 27 and the teenager is scheduled for a mental competency proceedings on Aug. 28. Another defendant, Shauntel Trone, pleaded no contest to accessory after the fact in July and is scheduled to be sentenced in January.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Former Gov. Doug Ducey stacked the Arizona Supreme Court with partisan cronies, and now were paying the price with a court as ethically challenged and morally compromised as the U.S. Supreme Court.

Thanks, most recently, to Ducey appointees Bill Montgomery and Clint Bolick.

This week, Montgomery, a hyper-political, hyper-partisan, virulent anti-abortion former prosecutor, said he would not recuse himself from a case involving the wording on the description sent to voters concerning the Arizona Abortion Access initiative on the November ballot.

Lawmaker: Justices can have an opinion

The Republicans who control the Legislature, and who oppose the initiative, chose to use the term unborn human being rather than fetus in the description.

According to the law, such descriptions are supposed to be impartial. Proponents of the initiative challenged the wording in Superior Court, where a judge decided that the description was most definitely not impartial.

Opponents appealed the case to the state Supreme Court, however, where Montgomery sits and refuses to recuse himself.

Republican Senate President Warren Petersen said, Every justice has an opinion on abortion  Montgomery is a good man. He will perform his job with integrity.

No.

Montgomery is a zealot against abortion

Montgomery doesnt simply have an opinion. Hes a zealot.

He has compared abortion to atrocities and genocide. Hes spoken at a rally condemning Planned Parenthood, an organization that worked hard to get the initiative on the ballot.

Arizona for Abortion Access said in a statement that Montgomery, 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  .

Yeah, it does.

Arizona's code of judicial conduct is clear

Arizonas Code of Judicial Conduct, Rule 2.11, under Disqualification, reads in part, A judge shall disqualify himself or herself in any proceeding in which the judges impartiality might be reasonably questioned  .

Montgomerys impartiality isnt being reasonably questioned here. He has none to question.

Just as Justice Clint Bolick, another Ducey crony, had no impartiality on a case that he recently ruled on.

Bolick not only heard arguments. He wrote the courts decision in a case where justices said the city and a union cannot enter into a contract that allows union people release time, which means dealing with union issues while being paid.

Arizona Supreme Court's credibility is shot

Back in 2015, when Bolick was the Goldwater Institutes vice president for litigation, he called negotiated release time a huge and widespread taxpayer scam.

Now, he ruled in a case that his Goldwater lawyer pals argued before him, probably using the same assertions he made years ago.

Arizona Supreme Court chief: Wants you to trust justices again

And he didnt recuse himself.

That kind of disdain for judicial objectivity is killing the credibility of Arizonas highest court. And it's being done boldly. Proudly. Arrogantly.

Although, maybe we shouldnt be surprised. The godfather of one of Bolicks children, the judges good friend, is U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.

nuf said?

Reach Montini at ed.montini@arizonarepublic.com.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Bill Montgomery and Clint Bolick are ruining the Arizona Supreme Court
In two different instances, two California men were arrested and face charges of attempted kidnapping in retail environments in California.

Christopher Bullock, who was arrested and charged after an incident in a childrens wear store in Chula Vista, Calif. at the end of last month, is due in San Diego South County Superior Court for a status hearing Thursday morning.

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And Rene Lujan, who was arrested and charged for attempted kidnapping at the Mission Valley Mall in San Diego in mid-June, is scheduled for a mental competency hearing on Aug. 15.

Police were called to the Little Kids Wear store in Chula Vista, Calif. for a possible attempted robbery shortly before 1 p.m. on July 27. A Chula Vista police officer happened to be in the area and was able to respond quickly, according to Chula Vista Police Department sergeant Anthony Molina.

What we had learned from speaking with the mom and the employees was that while shopping, the mom noticed this guy [Christopher Bullock] acting strangely. He was making some comments, which we are not putting out [publicly from the CVPD] yet. She thought he was acting really odd, and [decided] Im going to get my [2-year-old] kid away from him. As she was holding her kid, the guy reached for her and grabbed her arm. At that moment, based on the things that he was saying and the way that he was grabbing her arm, she believed he was trying to take her kid.

After breaking away from him, he followed her in what was described as a chase, but exactly how fast was not known, according to Molina. Store employees intervened, and the police officers showed up shortly after that. Bullock was detained and arrested without incident and no other force, Molina said.

Media requests to Little Kids Wear were unreturned Wednesday. By chance, the July 27 incident was said to have occurred on what was that locations final day of operations.

California state law defines kidnapping as moving another person a substantial distance without the persons consent, by means of force or fear.

Investigators are looking into the 23-year-old suspects background and motive. He is believed to have been unhoused in the area.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Childrens 10-year analysis of attempted abductions and related incidents reported that 2 percent of 8,015 incidents occurred in stores. In instances where secondary locations were involved, as often occurred during short-term abductions and sexual assault, secluded outdoor areas such as alleys, behind stores, parking lots and garages, cemeteries and other locales were the most common, according to the study.

Kidnappings are pretty rare. But one thing we wanted the community to be aware of is while hearing the word kidnapping is very frightening, the reality is that it does happen, Molina said.

Lujan, 42, was arrested on June 18, after grabbing a 6-year-old girl, lifting her off the ground, and walking a couple of feet carrying her, until she began screaming and he released her, according to the San Diego Police Department. The girl had been pushing her younger sibling in a stroller, and she had been walking next to her mother in the mall.

Lujan first fled by foot through the mall and then in a car, which SDPD officers later located via the departments automated license plate reader system.

A second attempted kidnapping case of a 5-year-old girl at the Mission Valley Mall on June 13 with very similar circumstances and [a] suspect description is actively being investigated to determine if it is tied to the first. A SDPD spokesperson did not respond to a media request Wednesday.

Molina said that more often than not, kidnappings are related to parental issues with people, who have kids in common, where one [parent] takes one [child] from the other. Emphasizing that such instances are not small things, he said they typically comprise the majority of kidnapping statistics. Molina added, if two strangers are in a store, and one grabs the other to move them at all, even a few feet, and you did not want to move, technically, you can charge me with kidnapping, Molina said.

Although scary, these things do happen. They are very rare. For us, this is an opportunity to talk about safety, awareness and how everyone [involved in the situation at Little Kids Wear] did the right thing here, he said. Even if this guys intent was not to kidnap in the traditional sense, its still scary  a stranger reaching for your arm and your kid. This mom did the right thing. She paid attention. She moved her kid out of the equation. The employees got involved and the police showed up to do their part.

Separately, in June three suspects, who targeted elderly women in the parking lots of supermarkets and allegedly stole their handbags from their vehicles while the victims loaded up their groceries, were arrested and arraigned. The thieves canvassed shopping centers and wait for elderly women to leave stores and walk to their cars, according to a press release issued by San Diego district attorney Summer Stephans office. Most of the 15 victims were of Filipino or Asian descent and were between the ages of 64 and 89.

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Two vacancies in House of Delegates closer to being filled

A flag waves on Maryland Avenue in Annapolis, near the State House. Photo by Danielle E. Gaines.

Two vacancies in the House of Delegates are closer to being filled.

Teresa Saavedra Woorman (D) will be sworn in next Monday as the newest member of the House, representing Montgomery County, in an afternoon ceremony in the State House.

And this past Monday evening, the Wicomico County Republican Central Committee unanimously nominated Salisbury businessman and county GOP Chair Barry Beauchamp, to replace former Del. Carl Anderton (R-Wicomico), who just went to work for Gov. Wes Moores administration.

Beauchamp, 63, owns an excavation business and is a licensed real estate agent.

Assuming he is appointed by Moore (D) to replace Anderton, Beauchamp will begin his legislative career with a target on his back. Democrats plan in 2026 to vigorously challenge the seat, which once had been held by House Appropriations Committee Chair Norman Conway (D).

Beauchamp prevailed over seven other applicants for Andertons seat. As chair of the central committee, he opened the meeting and made his pitch to his colleagues, then recused himself from the rest of the proceedings, which were closed to the public, including the final vote.

I got a unanimous vote, which really made me feel very good, Beauchamp said in an interview Tuesday.

In addition to his business experience and his two years on the GOP committee, Beauchamp has been a volunteer firefighter, EMT, engineer and assistant chief for the Salisbury City Fire Department. He was appointed by Moore this year to serve on the Maryland State Board of Onsite Wastewater Professionals.

Beauchamps wife, Susan Beauchamp, is an elected member of the Wicomico County Board of Education.

Beauchamp is a proud father of two girls and grandfather to four, and his dedication to both his family and his community is evident in all his endeavors, the GOP central committee said in a statement. His experience, leadership, and deep roots in Wicomico County make him an excellent choice to represent District 38B.

Beauchamp said that as his children have grown up, he and his wife have wanted to become more civically and politically active. We feel like we need to give back, he said.

Beauchamp said he hoped to build on Andertons 10-year legislative record and would enter the legislature with some of the same priorities as Anderton, who vacated his seat to accept an appointment by Moore to serve in the state Department of Commerce, as director of rural economic strategy. Beauchamp said these priorities include a new health and human services building for Salisbury University, improved streetscapes in Delmar, and expansion of the Salisbury Regional Airport, a top priority of Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano (R).

Beauchamp said he is also interested in exploring the possibility of expanding Salisburys municipal water and sewer system into other areas of the county. Asked if he would seek an assignment on the House Appropriations Committee, where Anderton and Conway served, Beauchamp replied, You really have to earn that spot.

Although he defeated a veteran and venerated Democratic lawmaker, Conway, back in 2014, Anderton gained a reputation in Annapolis for working closely with Democrats, who hold supermajorities in both chambers of the General Assembly.

Beauchamp said he also planned to serve in a bipartisan fashion.

I reach across party lines pretty well, basically, in my business and in my life, he said. Treat everybody good and theyll treat you good, most of the time.

District 38B is considered a swing district, and Democrats believe Beauchamps association with some of the more conservative candidates and causes of the local GOP could imperil his bid for a full term in 2026. He was highly critical of mask mandates and other pandemic protocols, and he and his wife are close allies of Giordano, who has a running battle with some other Republicans in Wicomico  which is partly an institutional struggle and partially based on ideological fissures.

Wicomico County Councilmember Josh Hastings (D) told Maryland Matters Tuesday he has every intention of running for state delegate in 2026, but said he wont formally announce his candidacy or begin campaigning until sometime next year.

Meanwhile, Woorman, 32, and an aide to Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich (D), will be sworn in next Monday afternoon. She was tapped July 12 by the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee to fill an open seat in the three-member delegation from District 16, which is centered in Bethesda.

A spokesperson for Moore Monday confirmed that Woormans nomination had been approved by the governor, though the administration has not announced it publicly.

Woorman fills a vacancy created when the central committee picked Del. Sara Love (D) to fill the districts seat in the state Senate that was vacated by Sen. Ariana B. Kelly (D). Love was sworn into the Senate on June 13.
Wiktor Szymanowicz/Getty Images

Thousands of transgender youth in the U.K. continue to face years-long waiting lists to receive gender-affirming care, despite the recent opening of two new gender clinics, according to newly-available data released this week.

More than 5,700 young people are now on the waiting list to receive gender-affirming care from the U.K.s National Health Service (NHS), per news agency PA Media, which obtained the information through a Freedom of Information request. That number rose by nearly 200 between March and May of this year, following the closure of the gender identity development service (GIDS) formerly run by Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. Although two new specialized gender clinics opened this year, they have yet to make a dent in the NHSs significant backlog.

Trans people under 18 currently wait an average of 100 weeks  just shy of two years  to receive their first appointment at a gender clinic, according to the newly-released data. In the U.K., trans people seeking hormones and other gender-affirming medical care must visit a gender identity clinic in order to be formally diagnosed with gender dysphoria and begin receiving prescription hormones or other treatment. A formal diagnosis is also required to obtain a Gender Recognition Certificate (GIC), the U.K.s method of amending ones legal gender marker.

These latest figures make for concerning reading, Dr. Roman Raczka, president of the British Psychological Society, told PA Media. It is imperative that children and young people have timely access to the professional care and support they need [....] All too often the issue of gender care which has played out in public has been damaging to the children, young people and families desperately seeking help and this must change.

The continued wait times come after years of outrage from U.K. conservatives over gender-affirming care, especially NHS prescriptions for puberty blockers, which are mostly used to halt early puberty in children and are also prescribed to trans adolescents. Although the Tavistock GIDS program survived a legal battle over whether minors could give informed consent to receive blockers, new referrals for blockers were put on hold, and the program was abruptly shuttered in 2022 following the release of interim findings from the Cass Review.

In that interim report, the Cass Review advocated a move away from Tavistocks single specialist provider model and towards a system of regional hubs to increase efficiency. Two such hubs have since opened in Alder Hey Childrens Hospital and Great Ormond Street Hospital, taking on a total of 236 referrals so far from the defunct GIDS program, PA Media reported. The NHS plans to eventually operate eight hubs across the country.

We know that children, young people and their families are worried and distressed about the time it can take to access treatment and support from gender services, an NHS spokesperson told PA Media this week, adding that the agency will shortly set out further detailed plans for how all of the Cass reviews recommendations will be delivered in order to transform the provision of care in gender services.

Advocates say the full report is profoundly flawed and relies on anti-trans biases, but its recommendations are moving forward even so. The U.K. Department of Health and Social Care issued an emergency ban on puberty blockers for new patients in May, which a High Court judge upheld last month.

While gravely concerning, the lengthy wait to see a gender identity specialist is unfortunately nothing new in the U.K. Data released last year showed that trans adults can wait up to seven years for their first appointment, leading some to give up hope altogether. And although the wait time for a first appointment has sharply increased in recent years, trans people have long reported a similar backlog before receiving care. In 2015, nearly ten years ago, trans adults in the U.K. seeking gender-affirming surgery reportedly sat on a six-year waiting list. That statistic seemingly holds true today  as of this month, the person at the top of the waiting list for gender-affirming surgery through the Northern Region Gender Dysphoria Service has been waiting for 73 months, and has not yet received an appointment date.

The long wait times are not limited to gender-affirming care, however, but rather extend across the NHS infrastructure. The Conservative Partys infamous austerity measures repeatedly cut funding to the NHS throughout the 2010s, overwhelming the healthcare system and leaving it unprepared to deal with the COVID pandemic, as the U.K. COVID-19 Inquiry noted in its first report last year. But even though those measures are deeply unpopular, Prime Minister Keir Starmers incoming Labour government has vowed to cut more infrastructure programs and public spending across the board.

Private Doctors in the U.K. Can No Longer Prescribe Puberty Blockers to New Patients

The emergency ban is an expansion of the freeze on blockers instituted by the National Health Service (NHS) in March.

During a protest last month, in which a group of trans teens scaled the outer wall of NHS England headquarters to condemn the ban on blockers, one young trans activist told Starmer to [s]top chucking us under the bus via a statement to PinkNews.

We are people, not numbers, the activist said, most of their face covered by a mask in the colors of the trans pride flag. We are not pawns for you to use on a chess set to try [to] win. We are here and we are people in ourselves.

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A week after the Venezuelan electoral council declared the countrys strongman, Nicolas Maduro, the winner of the presidential elections with a vote tally that the opposition movement showed to be fraudulent the U.S. is still withholding recognition of the opposition candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, as president-elect despite acknowledging that he did, in fact, win the elections.

In a call with reporters Tuesday, a senior State Department official did not say why. But his answers signaled that the reluctance to officially recognize Gonzalez as president-elect was linked to the possibility of negotiations between Maduro and the opposition facilitated by Brazil, Mexico and Colombia.

Mark Wells, the acting assistant secretary for the Western Hemisphere, said the U.S. is supporting diplomatic efforts by those three countries that are pushing for a return of democracy to Venezuela.

We are now focused solely on getting the parties to talk and be part of a peaceful transition, Wells said. This requires dialogue. The United States has offered our participation and support for any dialogue that the parties decide upon.

Wells said he could not confirm or deny that the Biden administration is currently negotiating with Maduro, as it did in Qatar last year. The two countries reached a secret deal at the time to allow the opposition to compete in the presidential elections in exchange for the U.S. lifting sanctions on Venezuela. Maduro later violated several conditions in the agreement, and the Biden administration re-imposed some, though not all, of the sanctions it had suspended.

Secret deal: Biden offered normal relations with Venezuela if Maduro agreed to elections

It is public knowledge that we have had dialogue with Maduros representatives in the past. I am not going to go into how these discussions will be at this time, nor am I going to mentionspecific people in this dialogue, Wells added.

He also declined to say whether the administration is considering lifting the $15 million bounty U.S. law enforcement is offering for information leading to Maduros arrest as an incentive to potential negotiations. The Venezuelan leader is wanted in the U.S. on charges of drug trafficking.

Wells said the U.S. government had reviewed the paper tallies of the election published by the opposition, verifying 80 percent of the votes, and concluded that such evidence would be almost impossible to falsify.

These data, analyzed and accepted by independent entities, show that Gonzalez received at least 66% of the votes, he said. The results of the elections are clear.

What has been less clear is the U.S. response.

Initially, U.S. officials said they were withholding judgment until the government-controlled Venezuelan electoral council released the vote details, which it has not done. But in a meeting of the Organization of American States last week, Assistant Secretary of State Brian Nichols, the U.S. top diplomat for Latin America, said for the first time that Gonzalez had beat Maduro by millions of votes. He urged governments to quickly acknowledge Edmundo Gonzalezs overwhelming electoral victory or else risk enabling Maduro and his representatives to attempt a massive fraud and disregard for the rule of law and democratic principles.

A day later, on Thursday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Gonzalez had won the most votes in the presidential election but did not officially recognize him as president-elect, nor did he do it in a call with Gonzalez and Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado the following day.

On Monday, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said the administration was not yet ready to recognize Gonzalez as president-elect.

Thats not a step that we are taking today, he said. We are in close contact with our partners in the region  especially with Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia  about a path forward. We continue to urge the Venezuelan parties to begin discussions on a peaceful transition back to democratic norms.

But in Venezuela, there are no signs that Maduro is listening to calls for a peaceful transition.

His forces have unleashed a crackdown on protesters and opposition leaders that has left at least 16 people dead. Maduro said security forces had arrested 2,000 people in the week following the election.

On Monday his ally, the countrys attorney general Tarek Saab, said his office is opening a criminal investigation against Gonzalez and Machado after they posted a letter on X urging the Venezuelan military and security forces to refrain from violence and to stand by the people and make the results be respected.

We won this election without any dispute, they said in the letter.

But on Tuesday, after emerging from hiding to lead a massive rally in Caracas during the weekend, Machado sent a cryptic message calling for an operational pause and preparing the oppositions supporters for a new phase to defend the vote.

Edmundo Gonzalez is the president-elect of Venezuela, she said audio published on X. Nobody said this would be easy, but let the world be very clear: There is no turning back. This is irreversible and will continue until the end.
The Alaska Federation of Natives, the largest statewide Native organization in Alaska, announced yesterday that the U.S. Treasurer Chief Lynn Malerba (Mohegan) and representatives from the Office of Tribal and Native Affairs will make their first official trip to their state this month.

The visit is planned for Tuesday, August 27, to both Anchorage and the village of Chickaloon, roughly 80 miles Northeast of Anchorage.

The trip follows the Treasury Departments approval of up to $83 million in State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funds for a consortium of 125 Alaska Tribes. The funds are anticipated to catalyze as much as $830 million in the next ten years additional private sector investment across the state and in Native-owned businesses, according to a press release from the Treasury Department.

Todays announcement reflects success that is only possible when federal agencies listen to Tribal Nations to understand their unique needs and incorporate their feedback in developing program policy and guidance, said Malerba in a statement. Through the flexibility of the consortium model, these Tribes will benefit from the historic opportunity that these resources for small businesses present to Indian Country. These funds will serve some of the most rural populations in the United States, creating jobs and expanding capital access for Tribes across Alaska.

The State Small Business Credit Initiative is a $10 billion program designed to cultivate small businesses and entrepreneurship by providing access to capital and technical assistance.



The SSBCI program is a historic opportunity for Tribes and village corporations to access lending to ensure that those who have always been here, will always be here, said Joe Nelson, AFN Co-Chair, in a statement.

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
The UAW endorsed Harris for president. Will it help her win Michigan?

By Nora Eckert

DETROIT (Reuters) - U.S. presidential candidate Kamala Harris clinched the United Auto Workers' endorsement last week, but a tough task still lies ahead: earning the support of its nearly 400,000 members.

Democrats have been energized by Harris' candidacy after President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign following a poor June debate. Polls show her with a small national lead over Republican Donald Trump for the Nov. 5 election, but securing UAW members' votes in the battleground state of Michigan could be key in what is expected to be a tight race with the former president.

Michigan households with a union member have been more likely than those nationwide to vote for a Democrat in the last three U.S. presidential elections, according to polling firm Edison Research, and in the state they lean to Democrats more than non-union households.

But Trump has tried to win over union members and other blue-collar workers nationwide. The head of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Sean O'Brien, gave a speech at the Republican National Convention last month although the union has yet to endorse a candidate.

Harris is expected to meet with union workers in Detroit on Wednesday and hold a rally with UAW President Shawn Fain, who has praised her record on fighting corporate price-gouging, profiteering and unfair trade deals. Fain has also spoken highly of Harris' vice-presidential pick, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

We know whose side Kamala Harris is on and we know whose side Donald Trump is on. Kamala Harris has stood with working people, Donald Trump stands with the billionaire class and the corporate class," Fain said Monday on a "Progressives for Harris" fundraiser livestream.

In the 2020 presidential race, 62% of Michigan households with a union member voted for Biden, helping him win the state. By contrast, union households split 53% to 40% for Hillary Clinton in 2016, when she narrowly lost the state and the national race.

In presidential elections dating to at least 2008, UAW member support has consistently exceeded 60% for the Democratic candidate, and never surpassed 35% for the Republican ticket, according to a union official. All signs indicate it will hold for 2024, the official added.

"I see a lot of energy and re-engagement in the process" among UAW Democrats since Harris launched her campaign, said Todd Dunn, president of a large UAW local in Kentucky.

The UAW's executive board, not the larger membership, votes to endorse a candidate. While the endorsement doesn't necessarily guarantee support from rank-and-file UAW workers, it is a shot in the arm for Harris' campaign.

"It signals that the UAW will apply its political resources to support the candidate and those resources include not only money, but voter mobilization efforts, where I think the UAW has had a history of being an important player," said Marick Masters, a Wayne State business professor who focuses on unions.

The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment.

A spokesman for the Harris campaign said thousands more auto workers are employed now under the Biden-Harris administrations leadership than under Trump, adding that "Donald Trump is lying to workers to cover up his record of costing Michigan three auto plant closures and thousands of auto jobs."

'AUTO WORKERS FOR TRUMP'

Chris Vitale, a UAW member for 30 years and employee at Jeep-maker Stellantis, said the membership's support for Trump is stronger than UAW leadership publicly acknowledges.

Vitale plans to support Trump, citing his record on trade and tax issues that affect the auto industry. He has previously backed Democrats, including former President Barack Obama.

"Auto Workers for Trump," a group that Vitale participates in, will be holding a gathering on Wednesday near Harris' Detroit rally.

"We've got two people to choose from... I'm throwing in with the one who at least has a record of being interested in manufacturing and preserving it in this country," Vitale said, speaking of Trump.

Manufacturing employment in Michigan grew by 11,600 in the first two years of Trump's term, according to U.S. Federal Reserve data, but then tailed off prior to a sharp drop during the COVID-19 pandemic. The state has gained 21,400 manufacturing jobs since Biden took office.

THE EV QUESTION

Trump in the past has been outspoken against electric vehicles and Biden's policies around them, warning that consumers are being forced into battery-powered models.

However, he abruptly changed his tone after Tesla CEO Elon Musk endorsed him. "I'm for electric cars. I have to be because, you know, Elon endorsed me very strongly," Trump said at a recent rally.

Some auto workers say they support both Trump and EVs.

"Electric vehicles, in a sense, are putting food on my table right now," Vitale said, adding that he thinks the industry will be hurt if EVs are pushed on drivers before the market is ready.

Elija-Blu Lampkin, who works in a Stellantis stamping facility near Detroit, wants to hear more from Harris about how she will keep jobs in Michigan amid the transition to EVs. Still, he said she already has his vote.

"There's no way that I can go the other way," Lampkin said.

(Reporting by Nora Eckert; editing by David Gaffen and Alistair Bell)
Rostov-na-Donu submarine. Photo: The Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation

In its latest review, UK Defence Intelligence has analysed the Ukrainian strike on the Russian Rostov-na-Donu submarine, which led to the submarine sinking.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence review dated 7 August on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Details: UK intelligence noted that although the attack took place in conjunction with a series of drone strikes, Ukrainian forces most likely used US-supplied ATACMS missiles.

Contrary to some reports, the submarine was likely not fully repaired after the previous Ukrainian attack on Crimea in September 2023.

UK Defence Intelligence calls this attack "the final chapter for the submarine", as it would be more cost-effective to build a new submarine than to refurbish and repair it.

Although the sinking of the submarine is a significant morale boost for Ukrainian forces, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on Russia's ability to launch long-range strikes against Ukraine from the Black Sea, UK intelligence noted.

"The strike does highlight the increasing risks to Russian forces in Crimea and will highly likely force Russia to reconsider any plans to relocate any significant maritime force back to the peninsula," the review said.

Background:

In a review dated 5 August, UK Defence Intelligence suggested that the new Russian law threatening to deprive new Russian citizens of their citizenship for evading military registration will not have a large-scale impact on mobilisation.

On 3 August, UK intelligence noted that the average daily losses of the Russians (both killed and wounded) have decreased over the past two months from the highest level in the entire period of the full-scale invasion, from more than 1,262 people per day in May to 1,140 people in July 2024.

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(Bloomberg) -- The UK telecommunications regulator urged online service providers to take action to stop customers from using their platforms to incite violence, even though Ofcoms new rules with stronger requirements to police online content arent yet in effect.

Most Read from Bloomberg

In a few months, new safety duties under the Online Safety Act will be in place, but you can act now  there is no need to wait to make your sites and apps safer for users, said Gill Whitehead, Ofcoms director for online safety, in a letter posted to the regulators website on Wednesday.

Ofcoms Online Safety Act, which will give social media companies new requirements for assessing and mitigating risks of content on their platforms, doesnt go into effect until later this year. Online platforms are already required to take down illegal content when they become aware of it.

Over the last 10 days, accounts on X, Facebook, TikTok and Telegram, among others, have been used to stoke racism and violent demonstrations across the UK with more protests expected later on Wednesday. Extremist groups kicked off the protests last week, starting a disinformation campaign that a teenager from Wales whod stabbed three young girls in England last week was an immigrant. Since then, protesters have been using online platforms to organize and target people and businesses.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned social media companies last week that crimes were taking place on your premises as violence erupted.

Representatives for X, Meta Platforms Inc., TikTok and Telegram didnt respond to requests for comment.

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Vladimir Putin has told an emergency meeting of his national security council that Ukraine is conducting a large-scale provocation after its cross-border raid into Russia.

Hundreds of Ukrainian troops from Ukraines 22nd mechanised brigade, supported by dozens of tanks and armoured vehicles, were reported to have launched the attack into the frontier region of Kursk.

Russian sources claimed that Kyiv occupied 11 villages, creating an opening about 10 miles deep and six miles wide, after fighting continued overnight into Wednesday.

A house is destroyed in the attack in the city of Sudzha in Kursk

Unverified footage shot from a drone appeared to show the capture of dozens of Russian prisoners of war by Ukrainian forces.

As you know, the Kyiv regime has undertaken another large-scale provocation, Putin said in a televised meeting with government officials. It is firing indiscriminately from various types of weapons, including rockets, at civilian buildings, residential houses and ambulances.

Rybar, an authoritative Russian military blogger, said on Wednesday afternoon: Throughout the night and morning, Ukrainian formations attempted to expand the part of Kursk Oblast under their control.

The account, which has close to 1.2 million followers on the Telegram messaging app, had earlier described the cross-border raid as a difficult situation for the Russians.

It appeared to be Ukraines first co-ordinated large-scale offensive action after months of attempting to hold back Russian gains in the eastern Donetsk region.

Kyivs political and military leaders have neither confirmed nor denied details of the raid, in line with previous decisions to maintain secrecy around active operations.

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Ukraine has previously helped stage attacks on Russias border regions of Kursk, Bryansk and Belgorod led by anti-Putin Russian citizens fighting alongside Kyiv.

But the latest incursion appeared to be one of the largest Ukrainian ground attacks on the Russian mainland since Putin ordered his full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Russian sources claimed that the advancing Ukrainian troops were equipped with US-donated Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, while unverified video appeared to show American Stryker vehicles also involved in the fight.

Ukraine was said to have prepared the operation in advance, bringing air defence systems to the border to protect their forces. There were also fears amongst Russian military bloggers that Kyivs newly acquired F-16 fighter jets could be brought into the battle.

The latest incursion appears to be one of the largest Ukrainian ground attacks - REUTERS

Russia responded to the initial incursion by calling up reserves, including Chechen special forces, and the air force.

A video published on social media appeared to show two Russian jets swooping low over a highway as black smoke rose from a burning vehicle on the Russian side of the border.

Over the past 24 hours, air raid sirens have repeatedly sounded across the Kursk region, Russian state media reported.

Alexey Smirnov, the governor of Kursk, said two Ukrainian rockets had been shot down over the region.

He had earlier urged citizens in the area to shelter and also consider donating blood.

Local authorities said at least five people died in the offensive and 28 more were injured, the bulk of them residents of Sudzha and Korenevo, according to Andrey Loktionov, the regions chief surgeon.

Local authorities said at least five people died in the offensive

Russias defence ministry said on Wednesday that it had beaten back Ukraines forces with air strikes, missile forces, artillery fire and active actions by units covering the state border.

It also claimed Ukraine had lost 260 militants and 50 armoured vehicles, including seven tanks.

The Telegraph could not independently verify these claims.

Fury over defence ministrys failure

Following talks with his security chiefs, Putin appointed Denis Manturov, the Russian deputy prime minister, to oversee the response to the cross-border raid.

Despite the claims from Moscow that the situation was under control, Russian military bloggers issued a furious response at the defence ministrys failure to secure Kursk.

Anastasia Kashevarova, a blogger with 250,000 subscribers, said: We knew that the Ukrainian armed forces would go to Kursk Oblast. We knew that they were pulling forces together. We knew everything as usual, the guys from the fields reported it, but the higher-ups did nothing.

Russian sources speculated that Ukraine was intent on advancing as far as the Kursk nuclear power plant, about 68 miles from the border, in revenge for the seizure of the Ukrainian plant in Zaporizhzhia.

Explosions were heard in Kurchatov, where the nuclear power station is located, local Telegram channels wrote, sharing what they claimed to be video footage taken by a resident.

Alexander Sladkov, a Russian war correspondent, wrote: Why does the Ukrainian armed forces need the Kursk nuclear power plant? It will come in handy. There are many options.

He added that Ukraine could demand that Russia leave the occupied plant in Zaporizhzhia in exchange for its forces leaving Kursk.

Western analysts said the Ukrainian operation was unlikely to achieve war-defining results or even drag significant resources away from Russias offensive in eastern Ukraine.

A limited operation might be able to achieve limited goals, but a more ambitious operation carries greater risks. It is unlikely this operation will have a significant effect on the course of the war, Rob Lee, a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, a US think tank, said.

Mick Ryan, a former Australian general, said: One potential driver is political. The government of Ukraine wants to shift momentum and the strategic narrative, and have directed such an operation.

Another potential driver is operational. That is, to draw away Russian forces from the Donbas to defend on the Kursk axis. However, given Russian advantages in manpower, Russia can probably cover both with limited impact on its operations in eastern Ukraine.

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Today, we analyse Ukraines surprise attack on the Kursk region in Russia, discuss Russias continuing worrying avandance across Donbas and we hear the latest political and diplomatic updates across Europe and the world.

Listen to Ukraine: the Latest, The Telegraphs daily podcast, using the audio player at the top of this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app.

War in Ukraine is reshaping our world. Every weekday The Telegraphs top journalists analyse the invasion from all angles - military, humanitarian, political, economic, historical - and tell you what you need to know to stay updated.

With over 70 million listens, our Ukraine: The Latest podcast is your go-to source for all the latest analysis, live reaction and correspondents reporting on the ground. We have been broadcasting ever since the full-scale invasion began.

Ukraine: The Latests regular contributors are:

David Knowles

David is Senior Audio Journalist & Presenter at The Telegraph, where he has worked for over three years. He has reported from across Ukraine during the full-scale invasion.

Dominic Nicholls

Dom is Associate Editor (Defence) at The Telegraph, having joined in 2018. He previously served for 23 years in the British Army, in tank and helicopter units. He had operational deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan and Northern Ireland.

Francis Dearnley

Francis is Assistant Comment Editor at The Telegraph. Prior to working as a journalist, he was chief of staff to the Chair of the Prime Ministers Policy Board at the Houses of Parliament in London. He studied History at Cambridge University and on the podcast explores how the past shines a light on the latest diplomatic, political, and strategic developments.

They are also regularly joined by Telegraph reporters and correspondents around the world, including Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent), James Kilner, (Foreign Correspondent and Editor of the Central Asia & the South Caucasus Bulletin), Sophia Yan (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Colin Freeman (Foreign Correspondent), Danielle Sheridan (Defence Editor), and Tony Diver (US Editor).

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.
'Ukraine has legal right to defend itself,' EU says on incursion in Russia's Kursk Oblast

European Commission spokesperson Peter Stano said on Aug. 7 that "Ukraine has the legal right to defend itself, including striking an aggressor on its territory," in comments to Suspilne in reference to the ongoing battles in Russia's Kursk Oblast.

"The EU continues to fully support Ukraine's legitimate right to defense against Russian aggression and its efforts to restore sovereignty and territorial integrity," Stano said.

Ukrainian forces crossed the border into Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil that were described by Russian President Vladimir Putin as "a large-scale provocation." Kyiv has not commented on the fighting in the area.

Russian pro-war Telegram channels claimed that fighting was ongoing in the region's towns of Sudzha and Korenevo, writing that the Russian military has retreated from the Sudzha gas metering station, which transits gas to Europe through Ukraine.

In response to the ongoing situation, U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said that Washington hasn't changed its policy of allowing Ukraine to use American-supplied weapons "to target imminent threats just across the border."

When Russia launched its intensified offensive against Kharkiv Oblast in May, a number of countries said they had lifted restrictions on the use of Western-provided weapons against military targets inside Russia.

Kirby added that the U.S. was reaching out to its Ukrainian counterparts "to get a little better understanding" of the fighting in Kursk Oblast.

Kursk Oblast shares a 245-kilometer (152-mile) border with Ukraine's Sumy Oblast, which has been experiencing daily Russian attacks since the liberation of parts of its territory in April 2022.

Since the beginning of the reported incursion in Kursk Oblast, Sumy has also faced an uptick in Russian attacks. Ukraine's General Staff said that Russian warplanes had dropped about 30 guided aerial bombs on towns in the area over the past day.

Read also: Sumy Oblast announces mandatory evacuation for 6,000 residents as Russia intensifies attacks amid Kursk incursion

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A member of the city of Hickorys Community Relations Council is hosting an event on Saturday to connect people with support resources.

Phyllis Michaux, who serves as the chair of the Community Relations Council, said the Saturday gathering will be a one-stop shop for people to get connected to a wide range of resources, to aid with housing, protection from domestic abuse, food insecurity and employment support.

Local charities set to attend the event include the Womens Resource Center, The Salvation Army, Safe Harbor and Alfa. Representatives from the Western Piedmont Council of Governments and the North Carolina Works Career Center will be there to discuss housing support and employment opportunities.

The North Carolina State Board of Elections will also be there to register people to vote and provide free voter identification cards. According to the board of elections website, to receive a voter ID you must provide your name, date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

The community care event will be at the Ridgeview Recreation Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Michauxs inspiration

Michaux said that her passion for community service inspired her to plan the event.

Anybody that knows me knows Ive always been a helper, Michaux said.

Michaux said her experience as a therapeutic foster parent exposed her to not only the needs of the community but also the available resources. She said that in her experience, people dont know about all of the support that is available.

Thats why an event like this one is important, Michaux said.

Catawba County is massive when it comes to huge, great, wonderful resources. We just have to get everyone together to know how to tap into them, Michaux said.

Michaux recognizes that even if people know where to find help, there are often barriers to access.

Transportation and time are two barriers that Michaux said significantly hinder people.

When people work a 9-5 job, theyre not able to get by and access any resources. Or a lot of times, if people call, they get put on hold for hours, Michaux said.

Michaux said she feels like there are a lot of community members who are disengaged, and she hopes this event can begin to bring them back in.

When I talk to everyone, I express to them that Im about diversity, equality and inclusion, Michaux said. I want to have you no matter what the culture is, no matter, you know, what color, creed, anything, its all-inclusive.

Michaux also said she believes in the power of care to change someones life.

Access to medical support, housing, childcare and financial relief are all things that can help people out of situations that may have been holding them back for years, Michaux said.

Michaux said that care means love, service and selflessness.

Youre not thinking about only just yourself. Youre thinking of others. Youre loving others, and youre just serving others, Michaux said.
Russia claims it repelled an armored attack inside its borders. The fighting took place in the Kursk region abutting Ukraines Sumy Oblast.

Starting at 8 a.m. local time, up to 300 Ukrainian militants of the AFU 22nd Mechanised Brigade supported by 11 tanks and more than 20 armored fighting vehicles launched an attack following preparatory fire at the positions of the Russian State Border Covering Force near Nikolayevo-Daryino and Oleshnya (Kursk region) immediately adjacent to the border between Russia and Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry (MoD) claimed on Telegram. The Kyiv regimes attempts to launch terrorist attacks on the territory of the Russian Federation were thwarted.

The War Zone cannot independently verify that claim and Ukrainian officials have yet to comment.

Based on available videos, it appears that the cross-border raid involved Ukrainian Humvees as well as wheeled armored personnel carriers, which may be either from the BTR series or possibly U.S.-supplied Strykers.

The Russian MoD and several Russian telegram channels say that Ukraine has conducted an advance into Kursk oblast today, including with elements from Ukraine's 22nd Mechanized Brigade and possibly Strykers from the 82nd Air Assault Brigade.https://t.co/BSvE2lTyQL pic.twitter.com/ICvjMMOJlU  Rob Lee (@RALee85) August 6, 2024

Russian sources say UA forces have breached border in both Kursk and Belgorod oblasts of Russia (to the northeast of UA). UA tanks and infantry reported on Russian territory, though authorities deny this. Damage in town of #Sudzha, Kursk Oblast, about 9 km from UA, seen in video. pic.twitter.com/hVgDbAd7AB  Euan MacDonald (@Euan_MacDonald) August 6, 2024

Aftermath of shelling in the city of Sudzha in the Kursk region



While the authorities say there is no reason to panic, local residents are hiding in basements.



Conscripts were sent to stop the Ukrainian Armed Forces' advance on the Kursk region. pic.twitter.com/venA3HAb7V  NEXTA (@nexta_tv) August 6, 2024

Earlier today, acting governor of the Kursk region Alexei Smirnov said that Russian border guards and soldiers had thwarted an incursion into Sudzha and Korenevo  two districts in the Kursk region.

The aftermath of the overnight shelling of the Russian Sudzha city, Kursk Oblast



The governor of Kursk Oblast reported that allegedly five people were injured, including three children, and several residential buildings were damaged.



Alexei Smirnov Telegram pic.twitter.com/LDAHPoqHKv  Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) August 6, 2024

The situation in the border area remains difficult, but our defenders are successfully working to destroy the enemy, Smirnov wrote on Telegram.

Smirnov said that shelling killed one woman and wounded several others near the border with the Sumy region. He later also claimed that a Ukrainian drone attacked a minivan, killing the driver.

Subsequently, Smirnov increased the civilian death toll to three, after another vehicle was hit, and also said that more than a dozen others had been injured.

Ukrainian sources claim that they destroyed an observation post during the raid.

Reported as the results of a Ukrainian raid in the Kursk region about 10 km from the border



Ukrainians destroyed a Russian observation post pic.twitter.com/rqIrLMwO1q  PS01 (@PStyle0ne1) August 6, 2024

Though neither top Ukrainian political nor military leaders commented about the incursion, Andrii Kovalenko, the head of an anti-disinformation department at Ukraines National Security and Defense Council hinted that it happened.

Russian soldiers are lying about the controllability of the situation in the Kursk region, he said on Telegram. Russia does not control the border.

At least one video shows a pair of Russian Su-25 Frogfoot attack aircraft operating at very low level in the Kursk region, together with columns of smoke and at least one burning truck on the highway.

Oh, no, its quite hot in Kursk region in russia pic.twitter.com/8hnjyraftU  Saint Javelin (@saintjavelin) August 6, 2024

There have been unconfirmed reports that the forces entering Russian territory from Ukraine are being provided cover by Ukrainian Armed Forces Buk-M1 (SA-11 Gadfly) mobile surface-to-air missile systems. Further claims suggest that one of these systems was successfully neutralized by Russia, using some kind of cluster weapon.

It appears that Ukraine was using Buk-M1 SAM system to provide cover for its raid into Kursk region, but it was eventually engaged and defeated by a Russian cluster payload (unclear as to what the delivery system was). pic.twitter.com/AkoTuMkI1w  krakek (@krakek1) August 6, 2024

Despite Russian efforts to downplay the significance of the incursion, it seems that a more concerted military response was prepared, with the Russian Ministry of Defense Ministry saying today that it sent reserve troops and additional aviation units into the Kursk region.

There are already reports suggesting that a significant number of Russian troops  including conscripts  were captured in the course of the raid and have been escorted across the border into Ukraine.

Captured Russian military from the Sudzha area of the Kursk region during today's Ukrainian operations on this direction. At least part of captured Russians are conscripts.

Some sources that publish the footage say that 35 Russians were captured by far. https://t.co/DxQeUTLZjN pic.twitter.com/lBfUdiInsD  Special Kherson Cat (@bayraktar_1love) August 6, 2024

Ukrainian military escorts a group of captured Russian soldiers to the border of the Kursk region https://t.co/Jn6czTJCgNpic.twitter.com/PYyNF1dFtT  MilitaryNewsUA (@front_ukrainian) August 6, 2024

This was not the first time Russia has had to deal with an attempt to advance across the border. A notable attack was launched into Kursk by Ukrainian-backed armed groups back in March. Other previous incursions took place in Russias Belgorod and Bryansk regions.

Russia typically blames Ukrainian combatants for incursions of this kind, however, multiple reports indicate that previous cross-border raids have also involved paramilitary groups formed by anti-Kremlin Russian nationals.

If Ukraine provides any details about the incursion, we will update our reporting.

Before diving into more developments from the conflict in Ukraine, The War Zone readers can review our previous coverage here.

The Latest

On the battlefield, most of the fighting and positional changes are in Donetsk Oblast. Russian forces there continue their push toward two key cities, Pokrovsk and Toretsk, according to the latest assessment from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

Kharkiv Oblast: Positional battles continued in northern Kharkiv Oblast on August 5, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline.

Luhansk Oblast: Russian forces continued ground attacks along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line on August 5 but did not make any confirmed advances.

Donetsk Oblast: Russian forces have recently made significant tactical advances in the Toretsk direction. Additional geolocated footage published on August 4 shows that Russian forces have advanced westward across Shkilna Street towards and across Tsentralna Street in western Pivnichne, east of Toretsk, ISW reported. Russian forces reportedly continue to advance east of Pokrovsk on August 5, and Russian sources claimed that Russian forces are closer to completing a tactical encirclement of Ukrainian forces near the T-0511 (O-054) road southeast of Pokrovsk, according to ISW. Russians recently made a marginal advance west of Donetsk City amid continued offensive operations west and southwest of Donetsk City on August 5. They continued limited offensive operations in the Siversk direction on August 5 but did not make any confirmed advances nor did they make any confirmed advances near Chasiv Yar.

Donetsk-Zaporizhzhia border: Russian forces marginally advanced northeast of Robotyne in western Zaporizhia Oblast amid continued ground attacks in the area on August 5.

Kherson Oblast: Russian forces continued ground assaults on the east (left) bank of the Dnipro River on August 4 and 5, including on the islands in the Dnipro River Delta, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline.

Russian forces have recently made significant tactical advances in the Toretsk direction. Geolocated footage published on August 5 shows that Russian forces advanced up to Kosmonavtiv Street in central Druzhba (east of Toretsk). Additional geolocated footage published on August 4 https://t.co/KOC8YulHaU pic.twitter.com/TXRXkst4ax  Institute for the Study of War (@TheStudyofWar) August 6, 2024

New photos and video 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 and aircraft damaged. You can see those new images and videos in our latest story on the incident here.

Aftermath Of Ukrainian Attack On Russian Su-34 Fullback Base Emerges



A drone strike obliterated a weapons storage area at an air base that has played a major role in the war in Ukraine.



Story:https://t.co/OZGa216YSx  The War Zone (@thewarzonewire) August 6, 2024

In the video below, produced by NATO, Ukrainian pilots talk about what it was like to be trained by the Danes to fly F-16 Vipers.

It is really a super fun jet to fly, said one pilot with the callsign Moonfish. Im not saying the MiG I flew before is super boring. But the F-16 is definitely more agile.

The jets are now flying for the Ukrainian Air Force. You can read more about that here.

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 #StandWithUkrainepic.twitter.com/dQSLoCalLi  NATO (@NATO) August 6, 2024

Ukraine made several modifications to U.S.-donated 31 Abrams M1A1 tanks to help them survive on the battlefield. Among them was adding Soviet-designed explosive reactive armor (ERA) tiles. The Abrams in the video below, operated by Ukraines 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade, features extensive ERA tiling on its turret. Beyond that, what makes this video so interesting is it offers a rarely-seen glimpse into the Abrams tanks operating on the battlefield. Nearly a third of them are out of commission, according to the Oryx open-source tracking group.

At least four have been damaged, one destroyed and six damaged and abandoned, according to Oryx. Those figures could be higher because they only tabulate losses for which there is visual confirmation.

M1A1 SA Abrams with added explosive reactive armor engaged somewhere along the front line in Ukraine.



Ukrainian 47th Brigade. pic.twitter.com/fTfU3PmtwH  FUNKER530 (@FunkerActual) August 5, 2024

There is more evidence that Russian troops are using the Discord messaging app as a combat management system. Popular with gamers Discord allows users to operate their own channels, public or private and share screens as a means of streaming content.

This video shows the Russians watching a drone feed of a burning vehicle.

More evidence of Russian soldiers using Discord platform to organize combat management. pic.twitter.com/WxO4c33Cmn  Clash Report (@clashreport) August 6, 2024

Speaking of battlefield communications, a Russian commander recently nailed his soldiers cell phones to a tree. Russian leadership has banned troops in the field from carrying them and other internet-facing devices because of how vulnerable they are to detection and psychological operations. Those caught using them face up to 15 days of detention.

Russian soldiers nailing personal phones of military personnel.



Soldiers caught using personal smartphones and other internet-capable devices face penalties of up to 15 days of detention. pic.twitter.com/KDfrKtgthN  Clash Report (@clashreport) August 6, 2024

In May, we told you how a report from Ukrainian state prosecutors found that around half of the North Korean KN-23 SRBMs  also known as Hwasong-11  launched by Russia not only deviated from their trajectory but also exploded in midair. Now the suggestion is being raised that one reason is that the missiles had rudder bearings made for Toyota automobiles instead of for the high temperatures and material strain exerted by a ballistic missile.

Russia has used KN-23 ballistic missiles from North Korea against Ukraine, but about half lost their programmed trajectory and exploded in the air.

Maybe because the rudder bearings are from Toyota cars, instead of bearings designed for high temperatures and tremendous strain. pic.twitter.com/GMc9T2pNEZ  Roy (@GrandpaRoy2) August 5, 2024

Images have emerged on social media offering the best proof yet that Ukraines Su-27 Flankers are carrying U.S.-made GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB) on a standard BRU-61/A rack. Those are designed to hold up to four of these 250-pound-class weapons.

Previously the bombs were seen on Ukrainian MiG-29 Fulcrum fighters. You can read more about that here.

Equipment of GBU-39 winged aerial bombs on the BRU-61/A beam holder of the Ukrainian Su-27 fighter pic.twitter.com/3thRItoEOc  MilitaryNewsUA (@front_ukrainian) August 4, 2024

Ukraine for the first time released video of its Su-24 Fencer combat jets launching U.K.-supplied Storm Shadow conventionally armed cruise missiles.

The Ukrainian Air Force just released the first footage of Ukrainian Su-24s launching British-supplied Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missiles. pic.twitter.com/9AZOZdtIZO  OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) August 4, 2024

Ukraine also released the first image of its Skynex air defense systems. Provided by Germany and made by Rheinmetall, the Skynex system comprises a 35mm anti-aircraft turret firing AHEAD ammunition based on an HX 66 truck chassis and integrated with an X-TAR3D acquisition radar and the Skymaster battle management system.

Germany has so far provided two Skynex systems plus ammunition to Ukraine.

The first photos of the Skynex anti-aircraft system supplied by Germany to Ukraine have been released by Operational Command "West." pic.twitter.com/pSlqAKvHRZ  NOELREPORTS (@NOELreports) August 4, 2024

After being struck by Ukraine, a Russian Buk anti-aircraft system cooked off its effectors in spectacular fashion, with the streams of smoke resembling the legs of a very large spider.

Another flammable Russian Buk system bites the dust. pic.twitter.com/1trQwzGHks  Kvist.P (@kvistp) August 4, 2024

And finally, they say that dogs are mans best friend, but this German Shepherd makes a heck of a battlefield training partner as well.

A Ukrainian dog in training..

Just a very funny video. pic.twitter.com/wZRjA6DjI5  Aleksandr X (@AleksandrX13) August 3, 2024

Thats it for now.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
Ukraine war latest: Russian offensive expected to wind down; more battles in Russia's Kursk region reported

Key developments on Aug. 7:

Russian offensive expected to wind down within 2 months, Budanov says

Putin meets top Russian officials over Kursk region situation as more battles reported

Ukrainian FPV drone hit Russian Mi-28 helicopter in 'historic' feat, SBU source says

Ukrainian special forces raid Russian-occupied island in Black Sea

Kyiv denies Russian claims of capturing Niu-York in Donetsk Oblast

The main thrust of Russia's offensive should come to a close within one and a half or two months, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) chief Kyrylo Budanov said in comments to graduates the Kyiv School of Economics (KSE), Forbes Ukraine reported.

"The practice of a 10-year war shows that the offensive potential of any side does not last more than two months. The Russian offensive operations are approaching three months, so there will be some decline," Budanov said.

Russia launched a new offensive in the northern part of Kharkiv Oblast back in May, but the advance eventually ran out of steam. The operation was seen by many experts as an attempt to distract and stretch Ukrainian forces thin.

In the meantime, Russia has continued to seize villages in Donetsk Oblast and push toward the towns of Chasiv Yar and Pokrovsk, which are said to be Moscow's main targets.

Budanov also said that after a "slight lull," Russia will try to attack again.

"We are preparing for this. Therefore, everything depends on ourselves, what our actions will be," he added.

"Are we just going to sit and wait, let four or five months pass, and everything will happen again? Or will we act proactively?"

General Oleksandr Pivnenko, the commander of Ukraine's National Guard, presented a similar timeline as Budanov back in July, when he estimated that the Russian offensive would wind down within a month and a half.

In May, Budanov said he expected Russia to launch a new offensive into Sumy Oblast after attacking near Kharkiv.

Moscow said on Aug. 6 that Ukrainian troops broke into Russia's Kursk Oblast, which borders with Sumy Oblast. The clashes on Russian soil were reported, but Kyiv has not commented on the fighting.

Read also: Ukraines unprecedented attack on Kursk Oblast brings war back to Russian soil

Putin meets top Russian officials over Kursk region situation as more battles reported

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with Russian Army Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, Defense Minister Andrey Belousov, and other Russian top officials over clashes with Ukrainian troops in Russia's Kursk region on Aug. 7.

Moscow said that Ukrainian forces crossed the border into the Kursk region on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil that were described by Putin as "a large-scale provocation." Kyiv has not commented on the fighting in the area.

Russian pro-war Telegram channels claimed that fighting was ongoing in the region's towns of Sudzha and Korenevo, writing that the Russian military has retreated from the Sudzha gas metering station, which transits gas to Europe through Ukraine.

Vlitaliy Slashchov, the town's mayor, claimed that the situation in Sudzha, which is located some 10 kilometers (six miles) from the border with Ukraine, is "very tense," Russian state-controlled RIA Novosti news agency wrote.

Gerasimov told Putin via video that Ukrainian soldiers allegedly aimed to "seize" the territory of the Suzhansky district, but their "advance in the Kursk direction was halted."

These claims cannot be verified independently.

Satellite imagery obtained by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) shows significant damage to the Sudzha road border crossing point as of the morning of Aug. 6.

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.

Over the past day, Moscow's troops have increased aviation activity near the border areas of Sumy Oblast, dropping about 30 guided aerial bombs on the settlements, Ukraine's General Staff said in its latest update. The local authorities ordered further mandatory evacuation of the border settlements.

Read also: US reaching out to Ukraine over reports of Kursk region incursion, White House says

Ukrainian FPV drone hit Russian Mi-28 helicopter in 'historic' feat, source says

A Ukrainian first-person-view (FPV) drone hit a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter over Russia's Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6, a source in the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) told the Kyiv Independent on Aug. 7.

The drone, operated by the Special Operations Center "A" of the SBU, managed to hit the helicopter's tail rotor, the source said, calling it "a unique special operation in military history."

Footage of the FPV drone ramming into the helicopter began circulating social media on Aug. 6. A day later, the full video was published by Ukrainian activist Serhii Sternenko.

While the source said that the helicopter was shot down, it is not immediately clear from the video what happened to the aircraft after the attack.

Russian military blogger Alexei Zemtsov, who runs the channel Voevoda Veshchaet, wrote on the evening of Aug. 6 that a Russian helicopter was hit and was forced to land. Zemtsov claimed that the crew survived and the aircraft was sent to repairs, but he did not specify its model.

According to Sternenko and several other observers, this is the first case of a successful hit by an FPV drone against a helicopter mid-air.

"The SBU once again demonstrated a high level of professionalism, creativity, and innovation in destroying the enemy. We still have many unexpected surprises for Russia," the source said.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify all the claims.

At least one similar but unconfirmed claim appeared on July 31. Forbes wrote at the time that, according to Russian military bloggers, a Ukrainian drone successfully destroyed Russia's Mi-8 transport helicopter in the sky near occupied Donetsk.

The outlet linked to a photo of what it presented as the burning Mi-8 wreckage but provided no visual evidence of the aircraft being hit by the drone.

Moscow said that Ukrainian forces crossed the border into Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil.

Though Kyiv has largely refused to comment on the fighting in the area, the crowd-sourced monitoring website DeepState said that one Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter and at least two tanks were destroyed in the battle.

The source's comments are another indication that Ukrainian forces are active in Kursk Oblast.

Read also: Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 3, injure 14 over past day

Ukrainian special forces raid Russian-occupied island in Black Sea

Ukrainian special forces destroyed Russian "equipment, personnel, and fortifications" during a raid of Tendra Spit off the coast of the occupied part of Kherson Oblast, Ukraine's military intelligence service said on Aug. 7.

Tendra Spit is a shoal or a narrow island in the northern Black Sea southwest of the occupied Ukrainian mainland in Kherson Oblast.

"On Aug. 6, Special Operations Forces of the Artan Unit and the Maritime Center of Ukraine's HUR (military intelligence agency) carried out an operation in the northern part of the Black Sea," the intelligence agency said on Telegram.

An amphibious special forces group landed on Tendra Spit overnight and destroyed Russian armored vehicles, namely MT-LB amphibious personnel carriers, as well as electronic warfare systems and fortifications, HUR reported.

Russian troops also suffered losses, though the exact number of casualties is being determined, the statement read. HUR claimed that the Ukrainian assault group suffered no losses.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims.

The Russian Defense Ministry did not mention an engagement on Tendra Spit in its daily reports.

According to HUR, this was not the first Ukrainian operation on Tendra Spit but "only a part of an ongoing broader plan of the Ukrainian Defense Forces."

Read also: Russian Su-34 jet destroyed in Ukraines strike on Morozovsk airfield, Kyiv says

Kyiv denies Russian claims of capturing Niu-York in Donetsk Oblast

A Ukrainian official on Aug. 6 denied that Russia fully captured the village of Niu-York in Donetsk Oblast, saying that "heavy fighting continues" there.

The front-line settlement of Niu-York lies just south of Toretsk, a town that has become one of the focal points of the Russian offensive in Donetsk Oblast.

Russian forces appear to have established a presence in the village. Earlier on Aug. 6, footage of what appears to be a soldier raising a Russian flag on top of a building in Niu-York emerged on social media.

The Ukrainian DeepState monitoring service geolocated the building as the Boarding School Number 38, located in the northwestern part of the village. The channel presented it as a signal of a "deteriorating tactical situation in the settlement and its loss in the near future."

Russian propagandist Vladimir Solovyov claimed the flag's footage as evidence that Niu-York fell to Russian hands. This was promptly denied by Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the counter-disinformation department at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council.

"As of now, Niu-York has not been taken by Russia. Heavy fighting continues there," Kovalenko said on Telegram.

DeepState's map points to steady Russian advances in the village but indicates certain parts are still held by Ukraine.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify all the claims.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) think-tank said on Aug. 5 that Russia had made "significant tactical advances in the Toretsk direction," pointing to geolocated footage of Russian forces in Druzhba east of Toretsk.

Russia also continues to press against other Donetsk Oblast towns, namely Chasiv Yar and Pokrovsk.

Read also: Russias advance toward key eastern highway threatens Ukraines grip of Donetsk Oblast

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russian forces targeted Ukraine with 30 Shahed loitering munitions on the night of 6-7 August, all of which were destroyed by Ukrainian air defence units.

Source: Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of Ukraine's Air Force

Quote from Oleshchuk: "The Air Surveillance Troops of the Air Force detected and tracked 30 attack drones. All enemy UAVs were shot down during the air defence operation within Kyiv, Khmelnytskyi, Vinnytsia, Mykolaiv, Kherson, Kharkiv and Cherkasy oblasts."

Details: Oleshchuk explained that the Russians had launched the Shaheds from the areas near the Russian settlements of Primorsko-Akhtarsk and Yeysk.

Military assets and personnel from the mobile firing groups of the Ukrainian defence forces and anti-aircraft missile units and electronic warfare assets of Ukraine's Air Force were involved in shooting down the Russian UAVs.

Background:

On the night of 6-7 August, Russian forces launched attack drones from the south. At around 03:00, an air-raid warning was issued in Ternopil, Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk oblasts in Ukraine's west.

Russian drones were also spotted in Kyiv Oblast, and the local authorities reported that air defence units had been responding.

In addition, Ukrainian air defence units shot down 14 Russian Shahed UAVs over Mykolaiv Oblast and their wreckage caused dry grass to catch fire. A Russian missile was shot down over Sumy Oblast.

Four Russian Shahed loitering munitions were shot down over Khmelnytskyi Oblast. The wreckage from the downed drones damaged storage tanks and the premises of a workshop belonging to a manufacturing company in the oblast.

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For the residents of Russias Kursk Oblast, the war is hitting home in a way few envisioned as a surprise mechanized Ukrainian incursion there stretches into its second day. Hundreds of Ukrainian troops and dozens of vehicles including tanks and other armor are said to have poured over the border, creating a pocket upwards of nearly 10 miles deep at some points.

We are losing everything dear that remains in our city and our beloved city itself, complained one denizen of Sudzha, a community about seven miles from the Ukrainian border that has suffered heavy damage during the fighting. Everyone is in a lousy state, to put it mildly.

UPDATED the map by @MalcontentmentT of reported Ukrainian advances in Sudzha so you can see where the Ukrainian presence is in relation to Russian defensive lines and Russian GLOC for Task Group North utilized by Russian Railways and the ZHV. @MalcontentmentT and others have pic.twitter.com/GoCrmfCqZn  Intelschizo (@Schizointel) August 7, 2024

Sudzha, Kursk Special Operation Zone, today. Video from Russian channels. pic.twitter.com/Hp6SClq1Bm  WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated) August 7, 2024

Exclusive footage from the Kursk Region has been published by the Ukrainian military



Russians complain about the jamming of communications and cellular signals and express fears that the Ukrainian armed forces will gain a foothold in the occupied positions. pic.twitter.com/MFUDmNYuE5  NEXTA (@nexta_tv) August 7, 2024

'Stuka' dive bomber UAVs are widely used for the Kursk offensive



Fixed wing UAV have a wider operational range than conventional FPV drones



Video from Russian sources pic.twitter.com/GBmsWHOYbO  PS01 (@PStyle0ne1) August 7, 2024

Photo of the Sudzha checkpoint in Kursk Region



The situation in the city is very tense, the city's mayor, Vladimir Slaschev, told propagandists.



We have a very tense situation There is no time to talk, a lot of people call about evacuation, he said. pic.twitter.com/YWGN9Tp4ZI  NEXTA (@nexta_tv) August 7, 2024

Knowing exactly what is going on is difficult.

I can confirm that we are aware of the recent movement by the [Ukrainian Armed Forces] into the region, a Pentagon spokesman told The War Zone Wednesday morning. The U.S. was not consulted about this movement.

The fighting was still ongoing as of this morning, said the spokesperson, deferring any further updates to Ukraine.

The Russian Defense Ministry (MoD), which just last night claimed they repulsed the incursion, said on Wednesday that the operation to neutralize the [Armed Forces of Ukraine] AFU units is in progress. The MoD proffered that Ukrainian forces have paid dearly in the operation, ticking off a laundry list of hundreds of casualties and scores of equipment losses it is impossible to verify at this point. The MoD also said that Russian forces responded by striking several rallying points inside Ukraine.

In Moscow, about 320 miles to the northeast of the fighting, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a short speech decrying the incursion that his troops are still battling to contain.

It is, he said, another massive provocation, with indiscriminate shelling from various weapons, including missiles of civilian buildings, residential houses and ambulances.

Putin made a brief statement about the events in the Kursk region. He didnt have any special statements, he just mumbled something about indiscriminate shelling and instructed everyone to resolve all the issues. pic.twitter.com/LaPiBjl6oY  WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated) August 7, 2024

Gen. Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the Russian General Staff, told Putin that his troops were continuing to destroy the enemy and that this operation would end in defeat for Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Ministry called on the world community to condemn the criminal actions of the Kyiv regime.

Putin met with Belousov, Shoigu, FSB Director Bortnikov, and Gerasimov, to discuss the situation in the Kursk region.



Gerasimov promised all was under control. Putin and the rest looked skeptical. By the way, Putin was once more sitting far away from his subordinates. https://t.co/KF0irzUiL7 pic.twitter.com/Axt42DqdzE  Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) August 7, 2024

Some prominent Russian Telegram channels are less optimistic and have raised alarms about this new offensive.

The situation in the southern regions of Kursk Oblast continues to deteriorate, the Colonelcassad Telegram channel wrote. There is a real possibility of losing Sudzha, reports of stabilization of the situation, to put it mildly, embellish the reality.

Throughout the night and morning, Ukrainian formations attempted to expand the part of Kursk Oblast under their control, the Russian Turned On Z War Telegram channel wrote. According to the latest information, since the beginning of the offensive, Ukrainian Armed Forces units have occupied several settlements in the region.

In the northwestern sector, the enemy reached the outskirts of Leonidovka along the Rylsk  Sudzha highway, in the area of which Ukrainian formations came under fire from Russian troops and suffered losses in manpower and equipment, Turned On Z War claimed. At the same time, units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces advanced from the Nikolayevo  Daryino  Daryino  Nizhniy Klin line to a depth of more than three kilometers, establishing control over Obukhovskaya , Pokrovsky , Tolstoy Lug and Lyubimovka.

Google Earth image

In Sudzha, Ukrainian troops captured the Sudzha gas metering station, through which gas is transited to Europe through the territory of the so-called Ukraine, Turned On Z War stated.

Sudzha is the last operational trans-shipping point for Russian gas exports to Europe via Ukraine, according to Reuters. Just 60 km [about 37 miles] away to the northeast is Russias Kursk nuclear power station.

From the fog of war, voices are heard that in the Kursk region, the russian gas metering station "Sudzha" has come under the control of the Armed Forces of Ukraine  this is a key facility of the gas transportation infrastructure in Eastern Europe.



At the moment, russian gas is pic.twitter.com/fVS1Wlgokr  Jurgen Nauditt (@jurgen_nauditt) August 7, 2024

Russia is reportedly using its aviation to halt the advance there.

Russia is bombing Sudzha with glided bombs. Sudzha is a Russian city!

Seems like the best way to destroy Moscow would be to send 3000 men there and they will bomb themselves. Stupid orcs pic.twitter.com/KuzqcKPFu9  PaulC (@PaulConRO) August 7, 2024

The Kursk region became a kind of slap in the face for those who forgot that they must always keep in mind the possible aggression of the enemy, no matter what, wrote the Two Majors Telegram channel. Against the backdrop of all the languid but difficult for our soldiers advances along the front line, we pretended that we had everything under control in other areas, where the concentration of our efforts, namely, not only experienced fighters, but also reserves with cover, is an insignificant matter.

Amid the ongoing fighting and attacks by ground forces, drones and missiles, a large number of residents have been forced to flee.

The enemy continues to strike throughout the border area of the Kursk region, according to the Russian War Gonzo Telegram channel. More than 200 people were evacuated from the shelled areas, another 1,000 people left in personal transport. There are currently more than 300 people in temporary accommodation areas, more than 100 of whom are children.

Acting Kursk Gov. Alexei Smirnov said on Telegram that the situation in the region is under control. We have organized the evacuation of residents from the shelled border areas, prepared temporary accommodation points and provided them with everything they need, psychologists are working. Doctors from Moscow and St. Petersburg have left for the region, the federal center is allocating additional funds and other assistance to the Kursk region.

In addition, he said Putin has taken personal control of the situation.

At night, I reported the operational situation to the Supreme Commander-in-Chief by phone. Vladimir Vladimirovich [Putin] is keeping the situation under personal control. The President emphasized that support will be provided to our region in all areas. I thank everyone for helping the Kursk region!

One resident, however, complained that Russian troops quickly fled the town as Ukrainian troops approached. He called the governors assertion that things were under control utter fuckery.

A resident of Sudzha in the Kursk special operation zone speaks of the beginning of an invasion  Russian troops abandoned their positions and left the town unguarded. There was no aviation, although helicopters were flying over Kursk. pic.twitter.com/xM48zHFDhL  WarTranslated (Dmitri) (@wartranslated) August 7, 2024

Ukrainian political and military leaders have yet to comment about the fighting, though one official, as we noted yesterday, acknowledged it was taking place.

Russian soldiers are lying about the controllability of the situation in the Kursk region, Andrii Kovalenko, the head of an anti-disinformation department at Ukraines National Security and Defense Council said Tuesday on Telegram. Russia does not control the border.

Meanwhile, more video has emerged of Ukrainian troops taking large numbers of prisoners.

Another video with a large group of Russian prisoners of war soldiers in the area of the "Sudzha" checkpoint pic.twitter.com/zfTPTxTuTH  MilitaryNewsUA (@front_ukrainian) August 7, 2024

As the fighting rages, the question about why is raised.

With Ukraine suffering losses on the front lines and trying to defend against a burgeoning Russian advance in Donetsk Oblast, committing so many troops and so much equipment is curious. Forcing Russia to rebalance its forces away from the front lines, to the border, in a continuous manner is one possible objective, as is the psychological impact of Russian territory being seized by Ukrainian forces.

Some early thoughts about this operation. The most important factor in the war right now is Russia's manpower and force availability advantage, in particular with infantry. That is the primary reason why Ukraine is struggling to hold back Russian advances in Donetsk oblast. https://t.co/SfY3sIv8JZ  Rob Lee (@RALee85) August 6, 2024

Whatever the reason, this incursion, as we previously noted, is far larger than prior attempts by Ukrainian-aligned forces to fight inside Russia.

As the Pentagon told us, it directly involves the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Thats a change from previous thrusts into Russian territory that were largely claimed by pro-Ukrainian Russian partisans, although it is highly debatable if that was truly the case. One notable attack was launched into Kursk by a supposed Ukrainian-backed armed Russian partisan groups back in March. Other previous incursions took place in Russias Belgorod and Bryansk regions.

How long this lasts, at what cost, and to what end is of course unknown at this point. However, it has sent shockwaves across Russia regardless of how it turns out and has certainly turned the tables on Moscow when it comes to the practice of crossing borders to seize another countrys territory.

Update: 4:42 PM Eastern 

Acting Kursk Gov. Alexi Smirnov declared a state of emergency over the Ukrainian incursion into his region:

The operational situation in the border areas of the Kursk region remains complicated. In order to eliminate the consequences of enemy forces entering the region, I have decided to introduce a state of emergency in the Kursk region from August 7.

Until the operational situation improves, I will personally coordinate the work of the forces of the unified state system for the prevention and elimination of emergency situations.

I would like to remind you that the operational headquarters under my leadership is working around the clock. I am keeping the situation under my personal control. I am constantly in touch with law enforcement agencies and the federal center. All necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of Kursk residents.

Smirnov also announced that Russian war correspondent Evgeny Poddubny was not killed as some have reported.

Evgeny Poddubny is alive! He regained consciousness and is receiving all the necessary treatment in one of the Kursk hospitals. We pray for his health!

According to Russian media, Puddubny was injured when his car was hit by a Ukrainian FPV drone while covering the Kursk incursion.

The Russians have already resurrected the warlord Poddubny and are promptly removing their posts



They say that he is alive, but with burns



Ukraine pic.twitter.com/6iR5ztu6tD  Malinda (@TreasChest) August 7, 2024

Up to 4,000 soldiers from the Belgorod region have already arrived in the Kursk region, and, according to rumors, one of the brigades from near Volchansk, as well as up to 2,200 people withdrawn from the fronts in Ukraine, according to the Russian Volya Telegram channel. The Ukrainian Armed Forces suffer their main losses from strikes by Russian aircraft and helicopters, and from artillery.

While The War Zone cannot independently verify those figures, we noted earlier that one of the objectives of this push could be to draw Russian troops from Ukraine.

Russian sources claim that around 4,000 soldiers from Bilhorod and a brigade from near Vovchansk, along with 2,200 soldiers reassigned from Ukrainian fronts (reportedly from Makiivka, Luhansk and near Vuhledar, Donetsk), are redirected to the Kursk region in an attempt to oust pic.twitter.com/1ZoXWsdxGH  NOELREPORTS (@NOELreports) August 7, 2024

A video emerged on social media purporting to show a column of Ukrainian vehicles destroyed by the Russians. Notable among the wreckage is a U.S.-donated Bradley Fighting Vehicle. Of the more than 300 provided, at least 45 have been destroyed, 24 damaged, 23 damaged and abandoned and four captured, according to the Oryx open-source tracking group. Those figures could be higher because Oryx only tabulates losses it can confirm visually.

Kursk region: A destroyed Bradley infantry fighting vehicle stands in the middle of various burnt-out vehicles. pic.twitter.com/ePMKejzQU6  SputnikSpreader (@VasBroughtToX) August 7, 2024

Ukrainian troops are reportedly working to retrieve some of the vehicles damaged during the assault, a logistics effort apparently unhampered by Russian drones or artillery.

Ukrainian forces working to evacuate some damaged armored vehicles in the Kursk region.



The fact they are able to do so without being harassed by enemy drones and artillery is very telling.



Source: https://t.co/BMJWEqHLf8 pic.twitter.com/WIU5mTn2Yw  Leon Fing Kennedy (@LKFUMrX2) August 7, 2024

Still, Ukrainian troops have taken a beating during their Kursk effort. Video emerged claiming to show Ukrainian troops being carpet-bombed by Russian aviation.

Would hate to be them right now.

Russian warplanes reportedly carpetbomb Ukrainian positions in the Kursk salient pic.twitter.com/5QKdffS0h6  SIMPLICIUS  (@simpatico771) August 7, 2024

As we noted earlier, Ukraine now controls the Sudzha gas metering station in Kursk, where nearly half of Russian gas important to the European Union flow. It is the last remaining Russian gas pipeline supplying the European market.

Ukrainian Armed Forces control the Sudzha gas metering station in Russia.

Nearly 50% of all Russian gas exports to the European Union flow through this station. It is the only operational Russian gas pipeline supplying the European market. pic.twitter.com/lDbZ5AAaWq  Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) August 7, 2024

The pro-Russian forces of Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov are reportedly involved in the Kursk fight. They are known as TikTok troops for their antics posted on social media.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
A Ukrainian first-person-view (FPV) drone hit a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter over Russia's Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6, a source in the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) told the Kyiv Independent on Aug. 7.

The drone, operated by the Special Operations Center "A" of the SBU, managed to hit the helicopter's tail rotor, the source said, calling it "a unique special operation in military history."

Footage of the FPV drone ramming into the helicopter began circulating social media on Aug. 6. A day later, the full video was published by Ukrainian activist Serhii Sternenko.

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While the source said that the helicopter was shot down, it is not immediately clear from the video what happened to the aircraft after the attack.

Russian military blogger Alexei Zemtsov, who runs the channel Voevoda Veshchaet, wrote on the evening of Aug. 6 that a Russian helicopter was hit and was forced to land. Zemtsov claimed that the crew survived and the aircraft was sent to repairs, but he did not specify its model.

According to Sternenko and several other observers, this is the first case of a successful hit by an FPV drone against a helicopter mid-air.

"The SBU once again demonstrated a high level of professionalism, creativity, and innovation in destroying the enemy. We still have many unexpected surprises for Russia," the source said.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify all the claims.

At least one similar but unconfirmed claim appeared on July 31. Forbes wrote at the time that, according to Russian military bloggers, a Ukrainian drone successfully destroyed Russia's Mi-8 transport helicopter in the sky near occupied Donetsk.

The outlet linked to a photo of what it presented as the burning Mi-8 wreckage but provided no visual evidence of the aircraft being hit by the drone.

Moscow claimed that Ukrainian forces crossed the border into Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil.

Though Kyiv has largely refused to comment on the fighting in the area, the crowd-sourced monitoring website DeepState said that one Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter and at least two tanks were destroyed in the battle.

The source's comments are another indication that Ukrainian forces are active in Kursk Oblast.

Read also: Ukraine brings war back to Russian soil with unprecedented attack on Kursk Oblast

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Ukrainian manufacturers will provide 70% of the value of arms supply contracts for the country's military in 2024.

Source: the press service of the Ministry of Defence

Details: Deputy Minister of Defence Dmytro Klimenkov said that the 70% share provided by Ukrainian producers may vary depending on the needs and capabilities of production.

"The Defence Procurement Agency has already signed more than 20 contracts with global arms manufacturers from 10 countries, mainly from Europe and the US," Klimenkov said.

The agency only signs contracts for weapons that have been certified by the Ministry of Defence.

"Equipment that is in great demand on the battlefield is certified much faster," said Maryna Bezrukova, head of the Defence Procurement Agency.

She also explained that the timeframe for delivering equipment to combat units depends on the supply and logistics conditions. For example, the purchased DJI Mavic UAVs are quickly delivered to the line of contact, while the production of new equipment takes longer.

"The Agency is making every effort to minimise the bureaucratic nature of these processes so that the necessary equipment and weapons arrive at the line of contact on time. This helps [us] increase the efficiency of defence procurement and strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities," Bezrukova added.

Background:

The defence ministry has certified and approved the use of a Ukrainian-made infantry flamethrower.

The Defence Procurement Agency of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has signed contracts with 102 domestic suppliers, 45% of which are UAV manufacturers.

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Ukrainian special forces destroyed Russian "equipment, personnel, and fortifications" during a raid of Tendra Spit off the coast of the occupied part of Kherson Oblast, Ukraine's military intelligence service said on Aug. 7.

Tendra Spit is a shoal or a narrow island in the northern Black Sea southwest of the occupied Ukrainian mainland in Kherson Oblast.

"On Aug. 6, Special Operations Forces of the Artan Unit and the Maritime Center of Ukraine's HUR (military intelligence agency) carried out an operation in the northern part of the Black Sea," the intelligence agency said on Telegram.

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An amphibious special forces group landed on Tendra Spit overnight and destroyed Russian armored vehicles, namely MT-LB amphibious personnel carriers, as well as electronic warfare systems and fortifications, HUR reported.

Russian troops also suffered losses, though the exact number of casualties is being determined, the statement read. HUR claimed that the Ukrainian assault group suffered no losses.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims.

The Russian Defense Ministry did not mention an engagement on Tendra Spit in its daily reports.

According to HUR, this was not the first Ukrainian operation on Tendra Spit but "only a part of an ongoing broader plan of the Ukrainian Defense Forces."

Read also: With Krynky lost, what did the perilous operation accomplish?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
New UNC-Chapel Hill chancellor to be named Friday. Will Lee Roberts keep the job?

UNC-Chapel Hill will have a new chancellor by the end of the week.

The UNC System Board of Governors is set to meet virtually Friday morning to approve the universitys next leader, bringing to a close a search process that kicked off less than five months ago.

The board will vote on system President Peter Hans nomination of a single finalist, chosen from group of three candidates submitted to him Monday by campus Board of Trustees.

Fridays announcement will end the search four months earlier than Hans originally expected. The search committee changed its initial plan to continue its work into the fall semester to gather additional input from the campus community, a move that likely allowed the process to speed up considerably.

Multiple people have been interviewed for the job. But the accelerated timeline has left some students and faculty concluding that interim Chancellor Lee Roberts will likely be named to the post permanently.

Roberts, a former state budget director under Republican Gov. Pat McCrory, does not have a professional background in higher education. He has held the universitys top post since former Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz left in January, resigning from the Board of Governors to assume the interim role.

Roberts, a private investment manager, has not stated publicly whether he wants the job permanently or has applied. He did not return a phone call from The News & Observer Wednesday.

Faculty, students voice concerns about search

Sue Estroff, a professor in the UNC School of Medicine and an elected member of the universitys Faculty Executive Committee, is among those who expect Roberts to be appointed.

Leaders with influence over the search did not do enough to allay concerns that Roberts was a shoo-in for the job, particularly after the states top Republican legislators  House Speaker Tim Moore and Senate leader Phil Berger  publicly endorsed him, she said.

Moore and Berger praised Roberts this spring for his handling of pro-Palestinian campus protests, particularly after he led university police in reattaching the American flag to the main campus flagpole when protesters tore it down.

State lawmakers do not hold authority over a chancellor search, but they  using the speaker and Senate leaders recommendations  appoint all members of the UNC System Board of Governors and some members of the campus-level Board of Trustees.

UNC System policy gives both boards official roles in chancellor searches, with trustees recommending finalists to Hans and the Board of Governors voting to approve his selection.

Interim Chancellor Lee Roberts and police officers work to rehang an American flag after it was brought down by demonstrators and replaced with a Palestinian flag Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Moore told reporters in May that he told Hans and former Board of Governors Chair Randy Ramsey that they ought to take that interim title off and name Lee Roberts the chancellor today. Berger said there was no question that Roberts should continue to serve as chancellor, permanently.

A done deal?

Since Republicans took control of the General Assembly in 2010, some groups, including the national American Association of University Professors, have accused the Board of Governors and the broader university system of being unduly influenced by conservative political connections.

Estroff said after Moore and Berger weighed in on the search, that was it  meaning, in her eyes, the search was done. She wondered  and asked the universitys provost on multiple times, she said  how the search would continue to attract candidates, given that some of the states most powerful players had voiced their opinion.

But Cristy Page, the executive dean of the UNC School of Medicine and the chair of the search committee, told reporters last week after closed-door candidate interviews that she did not think Roberts time as interim chancellor, nor Moore or Bergers comments, had impacted the applicant pool.

I feel really good that there has been a lot of outreach to people who are internal and external to North Carolina, Page said. And that doesnt seem to have dissuaded people from their interest and commitment to pursuing our great university.

UNC System policy keeps chancellor searches confidential and dictates that no names or identities of candidates, semi-finalists or finalists may be released to the public, even after a search ends. The only name officially available to the public will likely be the one who is chosen to become chancellor by Hans and is approved Friday.

Process sped up in recent weeks

Though the search process kicked off in March, it sped up considerably in recent weeks.

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is among flagship UNC-Chapel Hills landmark buildings.

The search committee last week held two days of candidate interviews in Chapel Hill, on Wednesday and Thursday. Monday this week, the campus trustees met for less than an hour to hear the committees report and select their slate of finalists to forward to Hans.

There were signs as early as April that the search would move somewhat quicker than Hans originally anticipated when he gave the committee its charge five months ago.

Laurie Wilder, president of Parker Executive Search, the firm that led the search, said at the committees second meeting in April that finishing the search in December, or near the end of the year as Hans expected, would be the worst case from a timing perspective.

A longer timeline could expose candidates to more risk, particularly their names becoming public, Wilder and Page said multiple times. Keeping the search confidential and speeding it up would quell candidates fears about entering a search, particularly for sitting university leaders, Wilder had noted.

So with that, and with the market and a number of things, we are paying attention to moving as quickly as possible once we start interviewing people, to limit that time that people are exposed, Page said following the committees fourth meeting, on July 17.

Last month Page said the committee would no longer hold additional listening sessions in the fall, as originally planned, due to the group receiving enough feedback in the initial sessions and a stakeholder survey.

Alexander Denza and Samuel Scarborough are members of the Southern Student Action Coalition and TransparUNCy, an organization that aims to highlight political influences on higher education in the state. In an interview, they said the additional sessions being canceled is a detriment to the search process. Since the listening sessions concluded prior to Roberts actions during the protests, the input students provided in their session might not accurately portray their feelings about the interim chancellor, they said.

If they were to actually hold listening sessions in the fall, theyd get an extreme amount of push back in the community, Denza said.

The faster-than-expected timeline means the new chancellor will be announced about a week before fall classes begin on Aug. 19.

That means that no students are going to be on campus to be able to make their voices heard on what they think of this, Denza said.

Estroff said she hopes she is surprised by the announcement on Friday and that the universitys new leader is someone who is of the calibre that we have had in previous chancellors, with experience in higher education.

Let me say that as strongly as I can: I hope Im wrong, Estroff said, referencing her belief that Roberts will be selected. I hope were all surprised.
Donald Trumps running mate texted extensively with a right-wing activist known for spreading fabricated smear campaigns against Democrats and even denying the atrocities of the Holocaust during a Reddit Ask Me Anything (AMA) discussion.

JD Vance and Charles (Chuck) Johnson conversed about a wide range of subjects, according to text messages obtained by The Washington Post, including the war in Ukraine, UFOs, US-Israel policy and Jeffrey Epstein. The conversation occurred over the encrypted messaging app Signal; the texts were provided to the Post by Johnson as Vance seeks the vice presidency on the Republican 2024 ticket.

A spokesperson for the Ohio senator confirmed the validity of the texts but claimed to the Post that Johnson spam texted Vance, and that the senator only responded to push back against Johnsons wilder claims.

JD usually ignored him, but occasionally responded to push back against things he said, William Martin told the Post.

But the examples published by the Post do not only show moments of disagreement between the men. Vance can also be seen soliciting Johnsons opinion on various topics, while making admissions and other remarks of his own seemingly aimed at impressing the far-right conservative activist.

Dude I wont even take calls from Ukraine, Vance wrote in October of 2023, in one text obtained by the Post. Two very senior guys reached out to me. The head of their intel. The head of the Air Force. Bitching about F16s.

In other moments, though, Johnson could be seen badgering the senator over his connections to donors such as Sheldon Adelson and his former law professor Amy Chua, as well as his political positions. Vance clearly grows irritated with Johnson in one exchange obtained by the Post: Stop sending me weird messages. I find your threatening tone enraging.

Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance texted with Charles Johnson about numerous topics, but took issue with Johnsons threatening tone in some exchanges (AP)

Vances ties to the far-right fringe of the Republican Party have made him an outlier in the Senate GOP and are part of the reason his pick as Donald Trumps running mate was seen by analysts as a nod to the the partys most diehard base of supporters, rather than a pickup that would benefit the campaign win over undecided voters. Trumpworld has cast Vance as a hardspun son of Appalachia whose connections to real America are more genuine than those of his Democratic rivals.

The Trump campaign has already faced questions about how closely Vance was vetted as a running mate before he was picked. The revelation of his texts with Johnson, a well-known conspiracy theorist, is likely to just add to those questions.

Johnsons political activism and embrace of bizarre and often simply false causes is well-documented. Most famous for his efforts to smear Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer as a sexual harasser with forged documents during the Trump presidency, the bearded, ginger-haired conspiracy theorist wrote that same year on Reddit that he had never believed the six million figure, referring to the number of known deaths in the Holocaust.

His views at the time resulted in a media controversy for Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz, who had invited Johnson to attend Trumps first State of the Union address to Congress as his guest. Johnson has maintained that he was not being truthful in that Reddit discussion, and instead was supposedly attempting to test the platforms speech policies.

Vances addition to the Trump 2024 ticket has already been a source of headaches for the Republican former president, who has seen his poll numbers slip as Vance became embroiled in his own controversy just days after becoming the vice presidential nominee. Comments he made to a conservative group in 2021 accusing Americans who do not have children of having less of a stake in the countrys future became the target of renewed criticism. The Ohio senator has attempted to deflect from the deeper political points he was making by focusing on criticism of his description of Democrats as childless cat ladies  a description he maintains is accurate.

Democrats have labeled Vances views weird and gone on the attack against their Republican rivals, sensing blood in the water. They are set to nominate Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, at their partys convention later this month.
The longest government shutdown in United States history occurred between December 22, 2018, and January 25, 2019. It was the byproduct of a dispute over border wall funding, a central issue of President Donald Trump's administration.

The president demanded more than $5 billion to fund the construction of a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border  a promise he'd made to his supporters while campaigning for the White House.

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House Democrats, led by the speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Democrats, however, refused to approve the necessary funding bills. This stalemate led to a funding gap that affected approximately 800,000 federal workers and multiple federal agencies.

The shutdown ended after 35 days, when President Trump agreed to reopen the government for three weeks to allow for negotiations on border wall funding. On February 15 the shutdown would have resumed, but the president announced he had signed a spending bill that allowed the federal government to remain open.

The bill included $1.4 billion for border fencing; however, this funding was well below the $5.7 billion President Trump wanted. This led the president to declare a national emergency in an attempt to bypass Congress and access funds for the border wall, a move that was fraught with legal challenges (such as lawsuits from states over potentially lost federal funds) and ignited a national debate.

Ultimately, the 2018-2019 shutdown had widespread effects, halting many government operations and services across the country. This had negative consequences for federal employees, the American public, Native Americans and members of the Coast Guard.

According to the Congressional Budget Office, the shutdown cost the federal government at least $5 billion. This includes $3 billion in back pay to all the furloughed workers and $2 billion in lost tax revenue (since the Internal Revenue Service was not able to conduct all of its usual compliance checks).
Uniting beyond the badge: Frankfort officials bond with community at National Night Out celebration

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56)  Cities across the country celebrated National Night Out Tuesday evening. Its a campaign to help law enforcement agencies break barriers and build stronger bonds in their communities.

City leaders in Frankfort told FOX 56 they wouldnt miss being a part of this partnership. Capt. Scott Tracy with the Frankfort Police Department said many people associate police officers and other first responders with negative experiences.

Thats why he said the police department and other agencies used the National Night Out celebration to help their community see beyond the badge.

We want the community to know that were vested in whats going on here, said Tracy. Its not just about writing traffic tickets and things like that, but actually understanding that Im a person, that youre a person that at the end of the day, were all a part of this.

Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news

The entire community was invited to enjoy a night of fun and games and to interact with each agency and its equipment.

For the kids to see the law enforcement interact with everybody in a nice, positive way so the kids arent scared of them, its just a really good opportunity for kids to see that, said Christina, a local parent.

Parents and children FOX 56 spoke with said this helped them to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the work first responders do.

Its protecting the whole community, said Cole Morgan. And we really need to appreciate that, especially for the firemen. Theyre not just around sitting around in there. Theyre fighting fires and saving peoples lives.

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A mural representing the citys efforts to build unity was also unveiled at the celebration. Frankforts former police chief of 22 years, Dustin Bowman, said this artwork showcases the positive results that can come from a community and its first responders working together.

Its changed mindsets with the officers, said Bowman. Theyre starting to find new ways to work with individuals that might be in crisis. Theyre starting to understand that sometimes these children, getting to them and helping them and helping them change their view of law enforcement can break a cycle.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Watch Ed Lendermans report for KUSI in the player above.

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  The landmark ordinance updating the University Community Plan to create new housing opportunities and jobs in the neighborhood was signed into law by San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria on Tuesday.

The ordinance was one of two updates to community plans, which are neighborhood blueprints guiding land-use policies over a multiple-decade period, unanimously approved by city lawmakers last week. Its companion focused on Hillcrest and the greater Uptown area.

Under the blueprint, the city hopes to double the population in University City, adding 29,000 new housing units and 72,000 jobs through commercial development.

Notably, the new University Community Plan emphasizes growth in the biotech sector, as well as health care and scientific research. The goal, according to the mayors office, is to reinforce the area as a major employment hub and create a second, smaller downtown.

This is the first plan update in the University area since 1987. Ill do the math for you, thats 37 years and a lot has changed around here since the late 1980s, Gloria said in a press conference Monday morning at a Torrey Pines biotech facility, where he held the signing.

San Diego County mayors meet to address homelessness solutions

He noted the investments local officials have made to expand transit in the area, including with the addition of six new Trolley stops along the UC San Diego Blue Line  infrastructure proponents say supports greater housing and commercial density.

However, the changes to allow for more density over the 30-year period the community plan is in place were not without pushback. Opponents described concerns about how the blueprints changes for both Hillcrest and University City could impact things like crime and parking.

Advocates on the other hand contend that allowing for the additional density in these areas will give the city another tool to address some of the most pressing concerns facing the region, like housing affordability and homelessness.

Advocates for the updates argued allowing for this additional density in areas like Hillcrest and University City over the 30-year period the community plans are in place could also help to address some of the citys most pressing concerns like housing affordability.

With the community plans updated for the greater Uptown area and University City, San Diego officials say they will now turn to working on drafting changes for Clairemont and College Areas blueprints.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
EVANSVILLE, In (WEHT)  The University of Evansville celebrated the grand opening of the new student housing apartment complex, Lincoln Commons, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday.

University officials state the milestone signifies the completion of Phase II in a major housing project designed to enhance the campus living experience for upperclassmen.

Ribbon cutting ceremony to take place at Lincoln Commons

Officials state the development began with the demolition of several campus buildings in November 2022, including the University Apartments, Ramona Apartments, one of the Hazeart Apartment buildings and the former Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity House, which was relocated to a new on-campus location. Foundation work for Lincoln Commons began in March 2023.

Located at the corner of Weinbach and Lincoln avenues, it is a four-story building that provides modern living accommodations for about 123 junior and senior students, offering one-, two- and four-bedroom apartments, equipped with a kitchen, washer and dryer, full size beds, couches, chairs and desks.

Officials state the first level features 3,500 square feet of retail space, including an outdoor patio, designed to foster a vibrant community atmosphere. Qdoba and Orange Leaf will become the first tenants with openings bringing about 20 new jobs to the area and bolster the local economy.

An 87-space parking lot has also been developed across the street, south of Lincoln Avenue, to accommodate parking needs of residents and visitors.

Today marks a significant milestone in the continued growth and development of the University of Evansville, stated University President, Christopher Pietruszkiewicz. Lincoln Commons, with its prime location at the corner of Weinbach and Lincoln Avenues, offers a modern and comfortable home for over 100 upperclassman students. This new facility underscores the Universitys commitment to providing high-quality living and learning environments that support student success.

Lincoln Commons and the continued development around the University of Evansville not only enhances the campus; it also contributes to a vibrant community and city, said Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry. Projects like this are about more than providing housing for students  they are about creating an environment that supports the development of these students and preparing them for success as they take these final steps toward adulthood and their professional careers.

Derek Ungethiem, President/CEO of Ungethiem Properties LLC and the franchisee for Qdoba, expressed his excitement about the new location. We are excited to bring Qdoba to Lincoln Commons and join this community. Our aim is to provide students and residents with a convenient and delicious dining option, contributing to the growth and development of the area while being responsible stewards of the campus and surrounding neighborhood.

While some students have already moved in, Lincoln Commons will welcome the remaining residents to the complex just in time for the start of the academic year on August 21.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  Some Eversource customers are shocked to see their electric bill for July, with some paying hundreds more. This follows the new electric rates that went into effect July 1.

According to Eversource, bills are higher for two reasons. One is that July was a hot month, and people used their air conditioning more. The other reason is a charge on your bill called public benefit charges, which cover costs for state-required and approved programs and policies.

Community mourns Bridgeport family killed in Florida crash

Jamie Ratliff, a spokesperson for Eversource, said the public benefit charges total $800 million and will be paid over 10 months starting in July. Half of that amount will be used to pay off power purchase agreements, like the Millstone nuclear power plant in Waterford approved by the legislature.

The video below aired on Aug. 7.

An increase in public benefit charges has loomed for some time. Ratliff said they told regulators more than a year ago that rates didnt match what needed to be paid off, and thats why there is so much to pay now.

More than a year ago, we warned regulators that they had not set rates to reflect the actual costs of these state-mandated programs, and so what ended up happening is because those rates were not set correctly, they pushed those costs forward so now were paying for last years cost and this years cost, Ratliff said.

When asked if there was any extra money in the state budget to cover some of these costs, Gov. Ned Lamont (D-Conn.) said, We have a very tough budget right now. Theres no surplus. We couldve gone back in time and maybe redirected some money, but its not legal.

On This Week in Connecticut with Dennis House, State Sen. Ryan Fazio said he and other Republicans called for a special session in the legislature.

We need to act, Fazio said. We need to make major reforms and show leadership as a state government in order to lower the medium-term and long-term trajectory of energy costs.

Eversource officials said the public benefit charge is based on usage, so increase your thermostat by a few degrees and shop around for supply rates through energizeCT.com.

Eversource also offers payment plans and assistance if youre struggling to pay your bill.

Programs for Income-Eligible Customers

State and Federal Assistance

Customers can visit the Eversource website to see if they qualify for these programs and enroll.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
(Bloomberg) -- The US charged a Pakistani man, who allegedly has ties to Iran, with attempting to carry out assassinations of American politicians.

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Federal prosecutors said Asif Merchant, 46, orchestrated a plot to kill an unidentified politician or US government officials on American soil. After spending time in Iran, Merchant traveled to the US from Pakistan in April and contacted a person he believed could assist him with the plot, according a criminal complaint filed in federal court in Brooklyn, New York.

Former President Donald Trump was one of those individuals who Merchant viewed as a possible target, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the matter isnt public. Theres no evidence that Merchants plan had any connection to last months assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, another person said.

Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that it is in touch with US officials about the case and awaiting further details. Irans mission to the United Nations said in a statement that it has not received any reports on this matter from the U.S. Government.

CNN reported the indictment and Trump as a potential target earlier Tuesday.

Merchant made an initial court appearance before US Magistrate Judge Lois Bloom in Brooklyn who ordered him held without bail saying he posed a severe threat to the US and a flight risk.

--With assistance from Chris Strohm and Augusta Saraiva.

(Updates with statement from Irans UN mission in fourth paragraph.)

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US ambassador to Japan to skip A-bomb memorial service in Nagasaki because Israel was not invited

FILE - U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel speaks to media after meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa at the foreign ministry in Tokyo, on Nov. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, Pool, File)

TOKYO (AP)  U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel will skip this year's atomic bombing memorial service in Nagasaki on Friday because Israel was not invited, the embassy said.

Emanuel will not attend the event because it was politicized by Nagasaki's decision not to invite Israel, the embassy said.

He will instead honor the victims of the Nagasaki atomic bombing at a ceremony at a Buddhist temple in Tokyo, it said.

An atomic bomb dropped by the United States on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, destroyed the city, killing 140,000 people. A second bomb dropped three days later on Nagasaki killed 70,000 more. Japan surrendered on Aug. 15, 1945, ending World War II and the country's nearly half-century of aggression in Asia.

Nagasaki Mayor Shiro Suzuki on Thursday said his decision not to invite Israel is unchanged despite announcements by the U.S. and five other Group of Seven countries and the European Union that they will send lower-ranked envoys instead of ambassadors to the ceremony.

We only want to hold the ceremony in a peaceful and solemn atmosphere to honor the atomic bomb victims, Suzuki said. It is absolutely not because of political reasons.

It is unfortunate that ambassadors won't be able to join us this year, but I hope they will attend from next year, Suzuki added.

Suzuki had indicated his reluctance in June to invite Israel, noting the escalating conflict in the Middle East. He announced last week that Israel was not invited because of concern over possible unforeseen situations" such as protests, sabotage or attacks on attendees.

Suzuki said he made the decision based on "various developments in the international community in response to the ongoing situation in the Middle East" that suggested a possible risk that the ceremony would be disturbed. Aug. 9 is the most important day for Nagasaki City ... and we must not let the ceremony be affected," he said.

In contrast, Hiroshima invited the Israeli ambassador to Japan to its memorial ceremony on Tuesday, which was attended by 50,000 people including Emanuel and other envoys, though Palestinian representatives were not invited.

Nagasaki officials said they were told that an official of the U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka will represent the United States at Friday's ceremony.

Envoys from the U.S., Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the U.K. and the European Union signed a joint letter expressing their shared concern about Israel's exclusion, saying that treating the country on the same level as Russia and Belarus  the only other countries not invited  would be misleading.

The envoys urged Nagasaki to reverse the decision and invite Israel to preserve the universal message of the city's ceremony. The exclusion of Israel would make their high-level participation difficult, they said.
US arrests man with ties to Iran for plotting to assassinate Trump

Asif Raza Merchant allegedly sought to hire a hitman to assassinate a politician or a US government official in the United States - UNPIXS

A Pakistani man with ties to Iran has been arrested for allegedly plotting to assassinate a US official in retaliation for the assassination of Qassem Soleimani, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) commander, the US justice department said.

Asif Raza Merchant, 46, allegedly sought to hire a hitman to assassinate a politician or a US government official in the United States, the department said in a statement.

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, Merrick Garland, the Attorney General, said.

Trump ordered the strike in Baghdad while president. He is not named in the indictment but it was unsealed weeks after it was announced that an Iran-linked threat against the former president caused officials to boost his security.

Soleimani, the architect of Irans foreign military operations, was killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad in January 2020. Iranian officials have repeatedly vowed to take revenge for the killing.

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, Mr Garland said.

The attorney general said no evidence has emerged to link Merchant with the July 13 assassination attempt against the former president in Butler, Pennsylvania.

There is no evidence to link Merchant with the July 13 assassination attempt against Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania - Gene J. Puskar/AP

Christopher Wray, the FBI director, said the Pakistani national had close ties to Iran and that the alleged murder-for-hire plot was straight out of the Iranian playbook.

Another FBI official said the assassins Merchant allegedly tried to hire were in fact undercover FBI agents.

Merchant was arrested on July 12 as he planned to leave the country.

Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the spokesman for Pakistans foreign ministry, said in a statement that the government was in touch with US authorities over the matter.

In August 2022, the United States charged a member of the IRGC with plotting to assassinate John Bolton, the former US national security advisor.

The justice department said Shahram Poursafi, who remains at large, had offered to pay an individual in the United States $300,000 to kill Bolton.

Iran has dismissed the claim that it had plotted to kill Bolton as fiction.

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The U.S. and Australia on Tuesday announced a new collaborative effort to ramp up production of key munitions as the allies strengthen a pact focused on deterring China in the Indo-Pacific.

The countries will work together to manufacture Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), which fire surface-to-surface rockets, and Precision Strike Missiles (PrSMs), which are a type of long-range precision-strike missile, for Australias acquisition.

Washington and Canberra are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding by the end of the year to co-produce the weapons, and they will create a joint program office in early 2025 to help oversee the efforts.

At a Tuesday press conference in Annapolis, Md., Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles lauded the efforts as a sign of strengthening ties between their nations.

Austin said the U.S. was pursuing different initiatives with each of our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific.

And all of that work, all of that vital work, builds greater peace, stability and deterrence across the region, he said in opening remarks.

Marles said the efforts to co-manufacture GMLRS and PrSMs underscored a much closer working of our defense industry bases.

This is going to give enormous opportunities for Australian companies to participate and contribute to the supply chain here in the United States, he said at the press conference. And as part of this, were seeing a much greater cooperation between our two defense innovation systems.

The agreements reached this week also include enhancing force posture, including more rotations of U.S. forces in Australia and longer-term operating locations in the country for American troops.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong also joined the meeting in Annapolis on Tuesday.

The meeting follows a historic 2021 pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the U.S., called AUKUS, that aims to deliver nuclear-powered submarines to Canberra. Another pillar of AUKUS includes cooperation on advanced technologies.

And under the Southern Cross Integrated Flight Research Experiment, the U.S. and Australia are pushing to develop an air-launched hypersonic weapon. The U.S. has yet to field a true hypersonic missile, though China and Russia have both deployed the weapons that can fly at Mach 5 or faster.

The U.S. has been shoring up support and strengthening alliances across the Indo-Pacific as tensions rise with China in the region.

Last week, Austin and Blinken concluded a trip to Japan and the Philippines that saw major new advancements with both Pacific nations.

A U.S. defense official said Australia will also work more closely on joint exercises and training, including with other allies like Japan and the Philippines.

We will be talking over the next couple days about the ways  in which Japan can integrate further into U.S. force posture in Australia, the official said, adding they would also talk about including the Philippines in the mix. We are aiming for a more regular and consistent series of cooperative, maritime cooperative activities. And I think youll be seeing that in the near term.

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(Bloomberg) -- China said it held naval and air combat patrol near a contested South China Sea area on Wednesday, as the US and three other allies announced joint maritime drills.

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The Southern Theater Command of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army organized the patrol in the vicinity of Huangyan Island, also known as Scarborough Shoal, it said in a statement on WeChat. It added that military activities disrupting stability in the area and creating hotspots are under control.

Chinas move happened on the same day that the US, Philippines, Australia and Canada announced the start of their two-day joint maritime drills within the Southeast Asian nations exclusive economic zone.

The activity is meant to demonstrate our collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific, the four nations top military officials said in a statement released by the Philippines armed forces.

We stand together to address common maritime challenges and underscore our shared dedication to upholding international law, the statement read.

Philippines Fortifies South China Sea Outpost For a Decade

Manila has recently been ramping up military drills with other nations, while trying to ease tensions with Beijing in the disputed sea. It held its first exercises with Japan last week, following a similar activity with the US.

The military drills are part of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.s efforts to strengthen security ties with allies. The Southeast Asian nation recently secured greater defense funding from the US, its longstanding security ally. It also signed last month a key military pact with Japan, similar to existing deal with the US and Australia while working on a new one with Canada.

(Updates with China patrolling South China Sea area.)

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US reaching out to Ukraine over reports of Kursk region incursion, White House says

U.S. officials are reaching out to their Ukrainian counterparts "to get a little better understanding" of the situation in Russia's Kursk region, where clashes between Russian and Ukrainian forces are currently taking place, U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters on Aug. 7.

Ukrainian forces crossed the border into the Kursk region on Aug. 6, resulting in clashes on Russian soil that have continued into the following day, Russian officials say.

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the incursion as a "large-scale provocation," while Russian Army Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov claimed on Aug. 7 that Ukraine's "advance in the Kursk direction was halted." Kyiv has not commented on the fighting in the area.

At a press conference on Aug. 7, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said it was "a bit rich for (Russia) to call it a provocation" in light of the more than 10 years that Russia has violated Ukraine's territorial sovereignty.

"I'll let the Ukrainians speak to their operations one way or the other. Thats most appropriate," Kirby said.

Miller acknowledged that the U.S. did not know about the incursion before it happened but said "it's not unusual for the Ukrainians not to notify us of their exact tactics before they execute them, it's a war that they are conducting."

Washington hasn't changed its policy of allowing Ukraine to use American-supplied weapons "to target imminent threats just across the border," Kirby said. Separately, Miller said that the incursion had not violated U.S. policy.

When Russia launched its intensified offensive against Kharkiv Oblast in May, a number of countries said they had lifted restrictions on the use of Western-provided weapons against military targets inside Russia.

The U.S. granted Kyiv limited permission to use certain American weapons to strike Russian targets near the region's border.

The Kursk region lies on the border with Ukraine's Sumy Oblast, which has been experiencing daily attacks since Russian troops were pushed out of the oblast and back across the border in April 2022.

Over the past day, Moscow's troops have increased aviation activity near the border areas of Sumy Oblast, dropping about 30 guided aerial bombs on the settlements, Ukraine's General Staff said in its latest update. The local authorities ordered a further mandatory evacuation of border settlements.

Read also: Ukraine brings war back to Russian soil with unprecedented attack on Kursk Oblast

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Theres a dearth of dairy replacements in the countryside. Dairy farmers began to understand that market reality in September 2023. As a result, U.S. dairy producers have sent fewer cows to slaughter for 46 consecutive weeks dating back to September 3, 2023, in order to preserve dairy cow numbers.

From January 1, 2024, to July 6, 2024, U.S. dairy farmers sent 259,400 fewer head to slaughter, based on data from USDAs Agricultural Marketing Service. When counting the trend that started unfolding last September, that number expands to a whopping 397,200 head. Culling has pulled back so much in the western U.S. that early July data indicates a 20-year low in volume.



No near-term reversal

That pullback on culling marks a dramatic downturn when compared to the four-year national trend as shown in the graph. This development is largely due to the beef-on-dairy market that has been delivering more cash flow to dairy farmers. That revenue stream keeps growing as the nations beef producers are receiving record prices for their cattle.

In 2017, the nations artificial insemination studs collectively sold 2.5 million units of beef semen nationally. By 2023, that sales number catapulted 276% to 9.4 million units. A previously unfathomable 7.9 million units were sold to dairy farmers, reported the National Association of Animal Breeders, as prices for dairy-beef calves keep climbing.

These days, there are between 3 million and 3.25 million animals from a beef sire and a dairy dam now in the U.S., estimated Dale Woerner of Texas Tech University. While thats good news for a beef sector that has the lowest feeder supplies since 1972, it has sent shockwaves through dairy replacement inventories.



As a result, dairy heifer replacements available to take the places of cows leaving the herd have tumbled to a 20-year low. This inventory scarcity has pushed dairy heifer replacement values past the $3,000 mark at multiple auction markets across the country.

This trend in beef-on-dairy shows no signs of slowing as week-old calves are fetching between $800 to $1,000 per head, which is double the price for the best purebred dairy bull calves. Given these high values for beef-on-dairy calves and the nearly three-year cycle from conception of a heifer until it has its first calf, this situation shows no signs of near-term reversal.

In the meantime, those dairy farmers with expansion plans have begun to purchase more gender-sorted dairy semen to plan the next crop of replacements. In 2023, 54% of all dairy bull semen sold in the U.S. was sorted to make a heifer calf. That was up 5% from the prior year. Like the beef-on-dairy trend, sales of gender-sorted dairy bull semen show no signs of slowing, either.





To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2024

August 5, 2024
US will request Ukraine to clarify developments in Russia's Kursk Oblast

American officials are planning to contact their Ukrainian counterparts regarding the events in Kursk Oblast, Russia.

Source: John Kirby, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the White House, at a briefing on 7 August, cited by Bloomberg and European Pravda

Details: Kirby states the US officials will be "reaching out to our Ukrainian counterparts to get a little better understanding" of the situation in Kursk Oblast, Russia.

He added that the US has not changed its policy of authorising Ukraine to use American-supplied weapons "to target imminent threats just across the border".

On Tuesday, 6 August, the Russians reported about Ukraines attempts to infiltrate into the territory of Kursk Oblast.

Russian propagandists and milbloggers are claiming that Ukrainian forces are in a border area. Russian ruler Vladimir Putin called the situation a "provocation".

The Ukrainian side has not yet commented on the events in Kursk Oblast.

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FAA has doubled its enforcement cases against Boeing since a door plug blew off a 737 Max

FILE - This image taken Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, and released by the National Transportation Safety Board, shows the section of a a Boeing 737 Max where a door plug fell while Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 was in flight. (NTSB via AP, File)

A federal Aviation Administration official said Wednesday that the agency has 16 pending enforcement cases against Boeing, half of which have been opened since a door plug blew off a 737 Max in midflight.

The increase in cases was disclosed Wednesday during a National Transportation Safety Board hearing into the accident, which happened during an Alaska Airlines flight on Jan. 5.

Brian Knaup, who helps manage the FAA's oversight of Boeing, said one of the open cases involves the removal of parts that have already been installed on airplanes in production.

That is apparently what caused the mistake that led to the Alaska Airlines accident: Bolts that were removed to open the door plug for maintenance workers were not replaced when the panel was closed and the plane left a Boeing factory near Seattle.

Knaup's comment came near the end of a two-day hearing that included discussion of Boeing's poor tracking of parts-removal jobs. The company failed to document who opened the door plug, and the missing bolts were never found.

Another FAA official overseeing Boeing, Bryan Kilgroe, said he is kept awake at night wondering especially considering all that has happened since Jan. 5, is why is it so difficult to sustain a corrective action for the long term?

Boeing said it had no comment.

The safety board released released testimony by Boeing employees who said they were pressured to build planes too quickly and not raise safety concerns.

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy cited two employees who worked on aircraft doors where the Alaska Airlines plane was assembled and claimed they were moved to other areas  Boeing prison and a cage  after the door-plug blowout.

What sort of impression does that give your employees if you sideline them ...? It is retaliation," Homendy said. She said sidelining the two workers runs against Boeings policy, which is not to retaliate against workers for unintentional mistakes.

Homendy said the NTSB will survey workers at Boeings factory in Renton, Washington, where the Alaska Airlines plane was produced, about the company's safety culture.

Representatives from Boeing and key supplier Spirit AeroSystems described their safety management systems, which encourage employees to voluntarily report safety concerns without fear of punishment. Boeing officials touted their Speak Up program for reporting concerns about quality and safety.

However, the president of the machinists' union local said Boeing often ignores safety concerns raised by the union until he lodges a complaint with federal regulators.

It really sounds great, the official, Lloyd Catlin, said of Boeing's safety plan. "In action on the factory floor, it is not.

The FAA has been roundly criticized for lax regulation of Boeing ever since two deadly Max crashes in 2018 and 2019 killed 346 people. Those charges gained new momentum after the Alaska Airlines accident.

The agencys new chief, Mike Whitaker, told Congress in June that FAA oversight was too hands-off but is improving. Knaup, a California-based FAA manager, said inspections have increased since the blowout.

FAA safety inspectors can talk to anyone thats on the (Boeing factory) floor at any time when they are doing an audit, and we do that, he told the NTSB.

Door plugs are installed on some 737s to seal a cutout left for an extra exit that was not required on the Alaska jet. The plug on the Alaska plane was opened at a Boeing factory to let workers fix damaged rivets, but bolts that help secure the panel were not replaced when the plug was closed.

The accident on Alaska Airlines flight 1282 occurred minutes after takeoff from Portland, Oregon, on Jan. 5. The blowout left a hole in the plane, oxygen masks dropped and the cockpit door flew open. Miraculously there were no major injuries, and pilots were able to return to Portland and land the plane safely.

A Boeing official said Tuesday that the company is redesigning door plugs so they cannot be closed until they are properly secured. Elizabeth Lund, who was named Boeings senior vice president of quality shortly after the blowout, said the company hopes to complete the fix within about a year, and that 737s already in service will be retrofitted.
Iowa Workforce Development manages unemployment claims filed on behalf of Iowans. (Photo by Getty Images, logo courtesy the State of Iowa)

A federal food inspector in Iowa is entitled to unemployment benefits despite his arrest on charges of domestic abuse by strangulation, a judge has ruled.

State records indicate Deng M. Chol of Marshalltown worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a full-time food inspector from February 2021 until his suspension in May of this year.

The records show that on Feb. 23, 2024, Chol summoned the police to his home due to an altercation with his wife. Chol was arrested and subsequently charged with domestic abuse assault by strangulation, two counts of child endangerment causing substantial risk, and domestic abuse assault causing bodily injury.

Each charge carries a potential penalty of a year or more of imprisonment.

According to police reports, Chol admitted having a physical altercation with his wife, leaving her with a bump on her hand, a bloody mouth and scratches. Chols wife alleged he grabbed her by the neck and applied pressure to the point that it was hard for her to breathe, the police report states.

The USDA initiated an investigation into the matter and on April 24, issued Chol a notice of proposed suspension for committing crimes for which a sentence of imprisonment could be imposed.

On May 9, Chol was suspended for allegedly failing to maintain the USDAs high standards of ethical behavior by engaging in criminal conduct, and for conduct that might create the appearance of violating the law or ethical standards.

The suspension was deemed to be for an indefinite period since it was based on the outcome of the criminal case.

Chol subsequently filed for unemployment benefits and collected $5,712 before the USDA objected. The matter then went to a hearing before Administrative Law Judge Stephanie Adkisson, who ruled recently that Chol was eligible for benefits.

Chol, Adkisson found, was criminally charged and then suspended for off-duty conduct. The USDA, she said, had not demonstrated that the domestic abuse incident was sufficiently work-connected such that it might be disqualifying, job-related misconduct.

Adkisson concluded there is no nexus between the charges and (Chols) employment. The employers interests were not harmed as a result of the charges.

Adkisson also noted that Chol had not pleaded guilty to, or been convicted of, the criminal charges. While the USDA may have been justified in suspending Chol, she stated, it had not proven the sort of job-related misconduct that would disqualify a person from collecting unemployment benefits.

Court records indicate a plea agreement of some kind has been reached in the criminal case, with the parties informing the court on July 26 that Chol wished to submit a guilty plea. The court filings give no indication as to the charges to which Chol intends to plead guilty. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for Aug. 12.

Other Iowans whose unemployment cases recently went before a judge include:

 Anastasia Peterson, who worked for Ducharme Dermatology in Clive as a full-time physicians assistant until she was fired in June. In February of this year, Peterson was allegedly notified that she was required to provide patient services in a more expeditious manner and was given instructions as to how much time she should spend for each medical procedure she administered in the office.

The new rules allegedly required Peterson to complete most medical procedures up to 50% more quickly than she had in the past. Peterson alleged it was almost impossible for her to speed up her work without cutting corners in a manner that she felt compromised patient safety. On June 4, she allegedly met with the clinic management to discuss her concerns and was fired during the meeting.

Administrative Law Judge Duane Golden awarded Peterson unemployment benefits, finding that she had tried to adapt and make changes to comply with the clinics directives. The clinic, Golden found, did not provide sufficient evidence of deliberate conduct in violation of company policies and had not warned Peterson her job was in jeopardy.

 Melissa Cooley, who for 10 years worked as a nurse or nurse trainer for the Sunrise Retirement Community in Sioux City until she was fired in June. Beginning in 2021, Cooley allegedly began receiving warnings for not properly documenting resident care and not properly changing residents wound dressings.

In May and early June of this year, while on employment probation, Cooley repeatedly signed documents falsely indicating she had cleaned residents wounds and changed their bandages, the home alleged. Other nurses who came on duty after Cooley had allegedly found older bandages still on residents, although Cooley had written into the medical records that she had replaced the bandages. Cooley was deemed ineligible for unemployment benefits and was ordered to repay $2,416 already collected.
TAYLORSVILLE, Utah (ABC4)  A Utah man is facing felony charges after he was accused of kidnapping and sexually abusing a minor before threatening her and her family if she told anyone.

Abdi A. Harun, 34, was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on the second-degree felony charges of kidnapping and forcible sexual abuse as well as the third-degree felony charges of enticing a minor and tampering with a witness.

Police say Harun was tasked with picking up the victim and two other minors from a school and taking them home on June 29, 2024. After dropping off the two other individuals, however, Harun allegedly took the victim to multiple locations across the Salt Lake valley.

The victim told police she started to feel scared and uncomfortable while she was with Harun. At one point, she messaged a friend and told her to contact the police department if she wasnt home within 20 minutes. Her guardian contacted Harun at the same time out of concern that the victim had not been brought home yet, according to court documents.

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While driving between locations, Harun allegedly began touching the victim by grabbing her hand or touching her chest. Harun allegedly made a mention of making the victim his second wife. The victim said she told Harun she was a minor, to which Harun allegedly responded by saying it didnt matter to him.

Harun eventually brought the victim home after buying her food, according to court documents. While dropping her off, Harun allegedly told the victim he wanted her to send him explicit photos and threatened her and her family if she told anyone about their conversation.

Harun allegedly sent multiple people to the victims house, bribing her and her family with money to recant her statements after she spoke up about what happened.

Court documents show Harun was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on Tuesday, Aug. 6. He reportedly declined to answer police questions and requested a lawyer. Court records show a judge ordered Harun to be held without bail, pending a pretrial hearing.

Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee faculty will vote Wednesday on whether to recommend laying off nearly three dozen tenured professors from the institution's two branch campuses next year.

The Faculty Senate's vote on professors who work for the Washington County and Waukesha campuses is advisory only. UW-Milwaukee Chancellor Mark Mone can go against the recommendation and still bring the layoffs to the UW Board of Regents for approval.

Branch campus faculty members say the vote will send a strong message to Mone and the board on the importance of tenure in a state where less than a decade ago the Republican-controlled Legislature stripped the protection from state law. The regents wrote a weaker version into policy that allows tenured faculty to be laid off when a university discontinues an academic program.

The policy has been applied just once before to lay off one professor. This time around, 35 professors could lose their jobs.

"I dont think (this policy) was intended to do mass layoffs of entire colleges at universities, but thats the approach UWM has taken," said Tait Szabo, an associate professor of philosophy for the branch campuses. "Theres been some bad faith arguments to defend the proposal."

Here's what to know about the Faculty Senate's special meeting and vote:

UW-Milwaukee's two branch campuses closing

The Washington County campus in West Bend closed at the end of this school year. The Waukesha campus is slated to shutter after the spring 2025 semester.

The process now playing out isn't focused on the campuses but on the tenured professors who work at them.

Unlike other UW institutions, all UWM branch campus faculty work in a separate unit

Most UW institutions with branch campuses house professors within the academic departments of the main campus. An English professor at UW-Green Bay Sheboygan, for example, is part of the English department at the Green Bay campus.

Profossors at other branch campuses that have closed have kept their jobs because their departments haven't been eliminated. They moved to a different work location.

But faculty at the UWM branch campuses are in a much more perilous position. UWM is a research institution, which has different expectations of its professors in terms of teaching load, research productivity and pay.

When UWM absorbed the Washington County and Waukesha campuses in 2018, it created an entirely new academic unit for its branch campus faculty to keep the expectations distinct. This unit is called the College of General Studies.

UW-Milwaukee cites declining enrollment, 'unsustainable' funding model

UWM makes an enrollment-driven case to close the College of General Studies. Both campuses have lost more than half of their students since joining UWM in 2018.

Demographic projections show no indication it will bounce back over the coming decade.

Nearly half of the College of General Studies' budget comes from state taxpayer money while less than a third does for UWM's main campus units, according to the university's closure proposal. Because of declining enrollment, the subsidizing of the branches would need to increase in the future. UWM said it could not afford to do so and would come at the expense of the main campus.

The university's proposal also cited increased competition from technical colleges, which recently began offering associate degrees.

Is a college a 'program'?

Before 2015, if an academic program or department was phased out, tenured faculty had to be placed in a different position and could only be laid off if there were a campuswide financial emergency. Under the new tenure policy, professors can be laid off when a program is eliminated.

Branch campus faculty argue the College of General Studies is not a program, noting that both the policy and various UWM websites distinguish between the two.

UWM said in the report "there is no question that a college, as a recognized academic unit, is a program."

UWM is keeping some of the programs administered by the college, including a flexible associate degree program and a freshman bridge program for students who do not meet admissions requirements at the main campus.

"Yet UWM is saying theyre closing the entire program to justify these faculty layoffs," Szabo said. "There's this sense that they're going to force it into policy any way they can."

The policy says layoffs should be invoked only "in extraordinary circumstances and after all feasible alternatives have been considered." Branch campus faculty members question whether UWM has truly considered alternatives.

Other faculty groups worry the layoffs, if carried out, will "hollow out the institution of tenure" and set a poor precedent for professors across the state.

Faculty committee agreed with UWM recommendation

A small group of UWM professors known as the University Committee acknowledged how the layoffs would contribute to UWM's declining tenured ranks but ultimately recommended the proposal move forward. All seven professors on the committee who authored the report work on the main campus.

"The unfortunate reality of the current situation is that the main campus budget has little ability to invest additional money in a unit with steeply declining enrollment and no realistic path to enrollment increases," the report said.

Retaining the 35 branch campus professors and moving them to the main campus would require $3.65 million, an amount that would increase about 4% each year, the report said. Most of them teach subjects that would place them in the College of Letters and Science, which has been under a hiring freeze in recent years because enrollment has declined 41% over the past decade.

The report also blamed the state Legislature for failing to invest more money in public universities.

Together, these circumstances "leave UWM with no clear feasible options for retaining these positions without risking greater campuswide financial instability," the report said.

Faculty Senate meetings are open to the public

The Faculty Senate will convene at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday. The meeting is scheduled in Room 170 of the Architecture and Urban Planning building, 2131 E Hartford Ave., Milwaukee.

Contact Kelly Meyerhofer at 414-223-5168 or kmeyerhofer@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at@KellyMeyerhofer.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Tenured faculty layoffs at UW-Waukesha, Washington County to get a vote
Valparaiso investigating why businesses near The Linc development flooded after heavy rain

A failed bypass sewer pumping system for The Linc Apartments and Lincoln Highway Garage in downtown Valparaiso allowed heavy rain Monday morning to turn into a flood for nearby business owners.

Ivy Boutique, 204 Jefferson St., was one of a handful of businesses with water in its basement. Owner Dina Harper posted on Facebook that the flooding was the result of a construction mishap at the new development, which is one block south of her womens clothing store.

The shop is expected to open after cleanup later this week.

The construction site also flooded, according to a Wednesday release from city officials.

As part of the construction of The Linc Apartments and Lincoln Highway Garage, the city developed plans for streetscape enhancements and upgrades to existing utility infrastructure, according to the city. The citys contractor started work on July 8.

As part of the sewer improvements, bypass pumping was installed to ensure the current sewer system was operational during construction. During heavy rain on the morning of Aug. 5, the bypass pumping system failed to operate correctly, causing manholes to overflow and the flooding of the construction area and some neighboring properties.

This should not have happened, officials said in the release, adding city officials were onsite immediately to help mitigate the flooding and damage.

As required, the city contacted the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to report the overflow event. IDEM has conducted an onsite assessment.

The city has held multiple meetings with the contractor to evaluate the current bypass pumping plan and to better understand why the pumps failed and the citys sewer system was compromised.

The city is also working with impacted property owners.
U.S. Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election, speaks at a campaign event in Shelby. Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

Flanked by local police and a prosecutor, former President Donald Trump running mate U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) knocked Vice President Kamala Harriss record on immigration and law enforcement at a small event in Macomb County Wednesday morning.

His appearance before a small crowd in a key county that Trump has won twice came ahead of a scheduled Harris rally in Detroit, where the Democratic presidential nominee will be joined by her newly minted vice president pick, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. While Harris and Walz will hold rallies in swing states across the country this week, Vance has scheduled stops in the same places, often on the same day.

Were dealing with the consequences for it, even in places like Shelby Township, Vance said. Which the media would tell you, is far away from the Southern border and its problems. And geographically, of course, it is far away from the Southern border, but its not far away from its problems.

Trump, the GOP presidential nominee, tapped Vance to be his running mate last month at the Republican National Convention. Vance appeared alongside Trump at a rally in Grand Rapids a few days later.

Vance is a freshman Senator from Ohio, who gained some recognition after the publication of his memoir Hillbilly Elegy, which outlined a somewhat controversial take for the causes of rural poverty. While he criticized Trump in 2016, he publically came around to the former president by 2022 while trying to earn his endorsement for the Senate.

Jim Tignanelli, president of the Police Officers Association of Michigan, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido, a GOP former state senator, and Shelby Township Police Chief Robert Shelide also made remarks.

The GOP ticket has gone all in on illegal immigration as a keystone issue of their campaign. Vance linked increased illegal immigration to crime in Michigan, and he pointed blame at the Biden administrations policies.

However, a report out of the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research found the likelihood of first-generation immigrants being incarcerated are 60% lower than people born in the United States.

The failure to protect our communities is a law and is a policy choice, Vance said. It is a policy choice to defund the police, which is what Kamala Harris wants to do. It is a policy choice to open up the American Southern border and allow migrant criminals to come into this community and make it less safe. It is a policy choice to not deport people, to suspend deportations, which is what Kamala Harris did.

Jim Tignanelli, president of the Police Officers Association of Michigan, speaks at a JD Vance campaign event in Shelby Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

U.S. Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election, speaks at a campaign event in Shelby. Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

Former Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake) at a campaign event for JD Vance in Shelby Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

U.S. Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election, speaks at a campaign event in Shelby. Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

U.S. Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election, speaks at a campaign event in Shelby. Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

Former Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake) talks with a reporter at a campaign event for JD Vance in Shelby Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

U.S. Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election, speaks at a campaign event in Shelby. Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido talks at a JD Vance campaign event in Shelby Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

U.S. Rep. John James (R-Shelby Twp.) at a campaign event for JD Vance in Shelby Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

Shelby Twp. Police Chief Robert Shelide talks at a JD Vance campaign events in Shelby Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

Former Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake) at a campaign event for JD Vance in Shelby Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

U.S. Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election, greets local law enforcement at a campaign event in Shelby. Twp. on Aug. 7, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

He expressed support for immigrants who are in the country legally but told attendees that illegal immigration was making the country less safe, linking the issue to support for local law enforcement.

My message to legal immigrants was  wed love to have you, Vance said. Youre very welcome, and were happy that you came through the proper channels.

Tignanelli spoke about three police officers who died by gunfire in Michigan this year, saying the deaths were partially caused by illegal immigration. People living illegally in the state did not kill any of the officers, but Tignanelli said they were learning from the illegals. The speakers also highlighted cases where people who were in the state illegally committed violent crimes.

When people are allowed to enter the country illegally without consequence and maybe even be rewarded for it, it leads some citizens who are here legally to think that that type of behavior is okay, Tignanelli said.

Vance said a second Trump administration would re-implement deportations, finish constructing a border wall and stop offering amnesty for people in the country illegally.

After defending Trumps observation at the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) conference that the vice presidential pick makes no difference in election results, Vance knocked Walz, describing the Minnesota governor and former U.S. House member as a radical human being who comes from the far left-wing of the Democrat Party.

Also on the topic of Trumps interview at the NABJ conference, Vance said Trumps comments that Harris turned Black were totally inoffensive and repeated that he thought she was a chameleon. Harris is biracial and the daughter of immigrants; her father is Jamaican and her late mother was Indian.

Shes a fake and the American people have to look at her record if we actually want to know how she stands on the issues, because her words simply cant be trusted, Vance said.

The previous day, Vance made a similar stop in Philadelphia before Harris rally in the city to link immigration to fentanyl deaths. He took questions from reporters in both Philadelphia and Macomb County and called out Harris for not doing interviews since ascending to the top of the Democratic ticket.

One reporter asked Vance what made him smile. He responded that he was having a good time campaigning before rolling the answer toward Trump, saying that the former president has the best sense of humor, but hes also a guy whos very frustrated with what Kamala Harris has done to this country.

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Ohio Sen. JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, defended on Wednesday a false claim the former president made about Vice President Kamala Harris ' racial identity, suggesting wrongly that Harris had downplayed her Black heritage in trying to suggest she's inauthentic.

What I took it as was an attack on Kamala Harris being a chameleon, he told reporters when asked in Michigan about the former president's suggestion that Harris, the daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants, had only recently identified as Black.

I think he was observing the basic foundational reality that Kamala Harris pretends to be something different depending on what audience shes speaking to, Vance said. She fakes who she is depending on the audience shes in front of, and thats who she is and thats who shes always been."

Vance's was the most recent of the Republican criticisms of how Harris portrays herself, in the wake of Trump's comments last week to the National Association of Black Journalists conference in Chicago. Florida Rep. Byron Donalds, a high-profile Trump surrogate who is a Black man, echoed the claim on Sunday as a guest on ABC's This Week."

The proliferation of Trumps falsehood by other Republicans is part of their effort to stay in his favor, said former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele.

It's 'Ill do anything and I dont want to be on the wrong side of you,'" said Steele, a former Maryland lieutenant governor who was the first Black man to lead the RNC. It's I dont want to take the heat that comes with calling out your racism, that comes with calling out your ugliness, so I will pretend thats not what it is'.

The Harris campaign has declined to comment specifically on Trump's false claim. The vice president, speaking to a Black sorority last week, accused Trump of the same old show: the divisiveness and the disrespect.

Harris has frequently talked about being Black in addition to being Indian American during her political career. She was the first African American to serve as California attorney general and became the first Indian American to serve as a U.S. senator and the second Black woman, after Carol Moseley Braun of Illinois.

As an undergraduate, Harris attended Howard University, one of the nations most prominent historically Black colleges and universities, where she also pledged the historically Black sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha.

As San Franciscos first Black district attorney, she was recognized as a Woman of Power by the National Urban League and received the Thurgood Marshall Award from the National Black Prosecutors Association in 2005.

She was recognized in India Abroad during her 2010 campaign for California attorney general as being potentially the first African American as well as the first Indian-American to hold the office.

Harris identified as both Black and Indian in an Associated Press story published that same year about the number of candidates of Indian descent running for prominent offices that year.

I grew up in a family where I had a strong sense of my culture and who I am, and I never felt insecure about that at all, she said at the time. Slowly, perhaps, with each of us taking on more prominent positions, people will start to understand the diversity of the people.

Harris joined the Congressional Black Caucus when she entered the Senate in 2017. And writing about her time at Howard in her 2019 memoir, The Truths We Hold, Harris wrote: Every signal told students that we could be anything  that we were young, gifted, and black, and we shouldnt let anything get in the way of our success. The campus was a place where you didnt have to be confined to the box of another persons choosing.

The echo of Trumps claim comes as the Republican nominee has tried to cut into Harris' fundraising and media attention following her taking over President Joe Biden's campaign after the president quit the race. Some Republican strategists have criticized Trump for making personal attacks that echo his past questioning of President Barack Obama's citizenship, instead of pivoting to issues like the economy or immigration.

Vance previously hit Harris for using what he called a fake Southern accent when she campaigned in Atlanta last week. And Michaelah Montgomery, a Black conservative activist who organized a widely shared Trump meet-and-greet with local college students at an Atlanta Chick-fil-A, tore into Harris at the former president's rally on Saturday, suggesting of Harris, She's only Black when it's time to get elected."

Rashawn Ray, a national scholar on racial and social inequity and vice president at American Institutes for Research, said the criticism willfully ignores the growing number of people who identify as multiracial.

People can be both Black and Asian," Ray said.

Casting doubt on Harris' identification as Black is also an effort to use race to undermine her qualification to be president  as Trump did questioning Obama's citizenship  said Ray.

Some people believe that by attacking the authenticity of Vice President Harris Blackness, they can send a dog whistle that questions her Americanness and electability, Ray said. People are often judged by what they look like rather than what they represent. Some people are banking on the shallowness of this perspective.

___

Beaumont reported from Des Moines, Iowa. Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this report.
Vance says he 'won't even take calls from Ukraine' in leaked texts, Washington Post reports

Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance repeatedly disparaged Ukraine and voiced his unwillingness to continue U.S. support in leaked text messages with far-right conspiracy theorist Charles Johnson, the Washington Post reported on Aug. 7.

According to the texts, which Johnson shared with the Washington Post, Vance said in October 2023, "Dude I won't even take calls from Ukraine." The exchange came as congressional Republicans began blocking an aid package for Ukraine, an impasse that continued for several months.

"Two very senior guys reached out to me. The head of their intel. The head of the Air Force. Bitching about F-16s," Vance said in the messages to Johnson.

Vance, who was selected as Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump's running mate in July, has been outspoken about his opposition to U.S. aid for Ukraine. He repeatedly has said that he "doesn't care about Ukraine," including just days after the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion.

In response to a request for comment about the leaked messages, Vance spokesperson Willia Martin told the Washington Post that "Johnson spam texted J.D. Vance."

"J.D. usually ignored him, but occasionally responded to push back against things he said."

The Washington Post did not say if the spokesperson refuted any of the statements that Vance had made in the texts.

The leaked exchanges covered a wide variety of topics, many of which pertained to domestic issues.

In one text conversation that Vance initiated, the vice presidential nominee "ridicule(d) the mental state of a pro-Ukraine activist," the Washington Post wrote, adding that he implied the U.S. government was "engineering popular support for Ukraine."

Read also: I dont care  JD Vance on Ukraine, in his own words

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance delivered a wide-ranging speech in Michigan aimed at refocusing the presidential race on immigration and policing Wednesday, blasting Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate's handling of both issues on a day they, too, were expected in the battleground state.

Vance spoke to members of the media and high-profile Republicans from the steps of the Shelby Township Police Department in Macomb County, where he said local law enforcement briefed him on recent allegations of crimes committed by those who entered the country illegally. He bashed Harris' management of the U.S. southern border and a surge in illegal crossings during her tenure in office. Vance promised that if voters send former President Donald Trump back to the White House, they will expand the border wall, make it harder for businesses to hire those in the country illegally and launch a mass deportation effort, among other moves.

"We do not consent to an invasion of this country from millions of people who shouldn't be here," Vance said.

Republican vice presidential nominee Senator J.D. Vance addresses members of the media outside the Shelby Township Police Department on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024.

The Trump campaign has repeatedly tried to tie immigration to rising crime, including during a visit by the former president to Michigan earlier this year. Early data from the FBI indicate a drop in murders and violent crime in 2023 from the previous year. And a comprehensive national study covering 150 years found consistently lower incarceration rates for immigrants compared to those born in the U.S.

In addition to attacking Harris' border policies, Vance criticized her pick of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, lambasting his signature on legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses in his state. Vance also decried civil unrest during Black Lives Matter protests in Minneapolis, when Walz was in office.

In 2020, Shelby Township Police Chief Robert Shelide was placed on paid administrative leave during an investigation into social media posts in response to Black Lives Matter protests prompted that year by the murder of George Floyd and death of Breonna Taylor, who was shot and killed by police.

"Trump threatening to deploy the military. I have a better idea: unleash the real cops and let them take care of these barbarians. I promise it will be over in 24 hours," read one post, according to a screenshot from the deleted social media account in question. At the time, Shelide issued an apology and township officials suspended him. He spoke at Vance's campaign event Wednesday, welcoming Trump's running mate to Michigan.

Vance touted support the Trump campaign has enjoyed from law enforcement and said its message on policing won't turn off Black voters whose support they're trying to win. "It is voters of color who benefit the most from public safety," he said. "Of course there are bad apples here and there, but most people recognize the police are there to make them safe."

Vance made the pitch that the Trump campaign has policies attractive to voters of color while also defending recent comments from Trump attacking Harris' racial identity. "I didn't 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 (NABJ) convention last week. Harris is the daughter of immigrants  a Jamaican father and Indian mother  and identifies as Black and South Asian.

Vance said he wasn't upset by Trump's comments. "And I didn't take it as an attack on Kamala Harris' biracial background at all. What I took it as was an attack on Kamala Harris being a chameleon. She pretends to be one thing when she's in front of one audience, she pretends to be something else when she's in front of another audience," Vance said. He went on to accuse her of taking positions out of step with how she's presented herself publicly. He pointed to support Harris previously voiced for the movement to defund police and how she's highlighted her prosecutorial background on the campaign trail.

Michigan voters "arent buying what Buckeye JD Vance is selling," said Harris campaign communications director Alyssa Bradley in a statement issued ahead of his visit to the state. "The more they learn about him and his dark vision to drag our country backwards, the more theyre showing up to support Vice President Kamala Harris, the only candidate in this race who is fighting for Michiganders and their freedoms," she added.

The Harris campaign has previously touted a recent drop in unlawful border crossings and pointed out that Vance opposed a bipartisan border bill endorsed by the union that represents Border Patrol agents. Trump came out against the border deal, characterizing it as a political non-starter in an election year in which immigration would once again become a political hot potato.

Michigan Election: 3 takeaways from Michigan's wet and stormy Tuesday primary election

Since Trump picked his running mate, Vance's past comments have sparked new controversies for the Republican ticket, such as remarks he made during a Fox News interview in 2021 stating that prominent Democrats without biological children  including Harris  don't have a stake in the future of the U.S.

Trump has stood by his running mate while saying his decision to pick Vance wouldn't impact his chances in November. Asked last week whether Vance would be ready to assume the presidency during a discussion at the NABJ convention, Trump said he respects Vance. "But I will say this  and I think this is well-documented  historically, the vice president in terms of the election does not have any impact I mean virtually no impact," Trump said.

Asked by the Detroit Free Press Wednesday whether that was the response he wanted to hear from the former president, Vance said he agrees with Trump's assessment. "I think it's a common sense observation," he said, before launching a litany of attacks against Walz.

Free Press staff writer Christina Hall contributed to this report.

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: JD Vance focuses on immigration, policing in Michigan speech
After veepstakes snub, what could be next in Gov. Beshears political future?

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56)  Gov. Andy Beshear received plenty of national attention throughout the veepstakes process thats left many wondering what could be next in his political future.

You know where Andy Beshear goes from now with his name recognition that hes built up nationally kind of depends on his own ambitions, Prof. Stephen Voss told FOX 56 News.

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Beshear called it an honor to be considered for running mate in a post on Tuesday morning and said Gov. Tim Walz is a great friend and great choice. Walz attended Beshears 2nd inauguration this past December.

As for Beshears own future, Voss, an associate professor of political science at the University of Kentucky who specializes in elections, voting behavior, and Kentucky politics, said its possible the very thorough vetting Beshear received by the Harris camp could keep him in consideration for something else. That could be in either public or private work, but what that is is anyones guess.

There are lots of ways to jump from governor of a state to a position of national prominence. Beshear has been doing the work that sets you up for that kind of shift, Voss said. Being on that list by and in and of itself was good for Beshear. Now, you know, Beshear didnt get the VP nod, but he emerged from the competition in the veepstakes virtually unscathed.

In a statement, the Kentucky Republican Party said it was no surprise that Harris took a pass on Beshear. His years of controversy and lack of policy wins made choosing him a liability, spokesman Andy Westberry wrote.

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As Voss noted people know Beshear has succeeded electorally in a Republican state, but it could be difficult to tout future policy successes if Democrats hold the same minority throughout his term.

Beshear has not had much success working with Republicans. We have no reason to think that will change. So, Beshears got to worry that his right now very hot stock will cool down if he doesnt move on soon, Voss said.

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Beshear has also said on record multiple times hed be ok if this was the final public office he held and that he plans to serve out the remainder of his term.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
By Vivian Sequera

CARACAS (Reuters) -Venezuela's legal system mounted more challenges against the country's political opposition on Wednesday, as the candidate the alliance says won the July 28 election was ruled in contempt of court and now faces imprisonment.

The head of Venezuela's Supreme Court ruled Edmundo Gonzalez, who says he beat President Nicolas Maduro in the vote, was in contempt of court after refusing to answer a summons to attend what it said was a certification of the results.

Gonzalez, a 74-year-old former diplomat, could face up to 30 days in jail for contempt, lawyers said. Numerous Venezuelan opposition leaders have faced arrest and imprisonment or fled into exile in recent years.

"If I go to the electoral chamber (of the Supreme Court) in these conditions I will be totally vulnerable due to powerlessness and violation of due process and I will put at risk not only my freedom but, more importantly, the will of the Venezuelan people as they expressed on July 28," Gonzalez said in a letter posted on X on Wednesday.

Venezuela's electoral authority - which the opposition accuses of being biased towards Maduro - declared Maduro the winner of the election early on July 29 with around 51% of the vote. But it has yet to produce the voting tallies.

The opposition, led by Maria Corina Machado and Gonzalez, says it has copies of the voting tallies that show it won the election with more than 7 million votes, compared to Maduro's 3.3 million votes. That result is broadly similar to that predicted by independent exit polls.

While Russia and China, among others, have congratulated the socialist Maduro on his win, many Western countries have expressed skepticism and asked the electoral authority to publish a full vote tally.

Chile's leftist President Gabriel Boric rejected Maduro's victory on Wednesday, saying he had "no doubt" Venezuela's government had committed fraud to hold on to power.

That prompted an angry rebuttal from Venezuelan Foreign Minister Ivan Gil, who added that Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan had spoken to Maduro and that Istanbul had congratulated the Venezuelan people on the election.

In a post on X, the Turkish presidency said Turkey "will continue to support the dialogue process in Venezuela."

WEBSITE TARGETED

In another legal challenge to the opposition, top prosecutor Tarek Saab said he would open a criminal investigation into the publishers of a website showing election tallies collected by the opposition which suggest Gonzalez won by a landslide.

"It was decided to launch a criminal investigation against those responsible for the publication and maintenance of the website," Saab said in a statement, citing forgery of public documents, computer crimes and conspiracy.

A United States official has said he believes it would be nearly impossible for the opposition to have falsified these tallies, which were rapidly uploaded online.

The disputed election led to a wave of anti-Maduro protests across Venezuela and advocacy groups have raised alarms over security forces rounding up suspected protesters. Authorities say police are targeting people accused of committing violent crimes during the demonstrations.

Late on Tuesday, Maria Oropeza, a coordinator for Machado's Vente Venezuela political movement, broadcast a raid on her home in Guanare, in Portuguesa state, live on Instagram.

The video appears to show security officers attempting to break down a metal grid at her home entrance and asking her to accompany them. Before the video cut to black, Oropeza could be heard asking to see a warrant.

Oropeza's current whereabouts are unknown.

Attorney General Saab has already launched a criminal probe against Machado and Gonzalez for inciting security forces to break the law, after they published a joint letter calling for police and military to stand with Venezuela's people.

(Reporting by Vivian Sequera, Mayela Armas and Deisy Buitrago; Additional reporting by Kylie Madry; Writing by Oliver Griffin and Sarah Morland; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien and Stephen Coates)
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 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 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.

In the meantime, Machado encouraged her supporters to stay strong.

"Nobody said it would be easy, but the world needs to realize that there is no turning back," Machado said in an audio message published on social media. "Fear will not paralyze us and we will not leave the streets."

Machado also emphasized the importance of taking a break to prepare for the next phase of the power struggle.

"An operational pause is sometimes necessary to ensure that all the elements of the strategy are aligned and ready for action."

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.
Aug 7, 2024, 1:17pm EDT

The News

The candidate for Venezuelas opposition said he would not appear before the countrys high court Wednesday after being summoned by President Nicolas Maduro for an election audit.

Maduro called Edmundo Gonzalez and eight others to hand over electoral material and answer questions; Gonzalez challenged the hearings legality in a statement.

Venezuela has seen mass protests and calls for Maduro to step down since the disputed July 28 election. The countrys National Electoral Committee said he won, but many believe the opposite. Several European and Latin American countries have called for transparency; others, including the US, recognized Gonzalez as the rightful winner.

On Monday, the attorney general  a Maduro ally  opened a criminal investigation into Gonzalez and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, citing allegations including incitement to insurrection.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

A new government led by the opposition may still be possible

Source: Americas Quarterly

A pathway for the opposition to claim victory may still be possible, a columnist argued in Americas Quarterly. If Maduro digs in, its possible that popular unrest will only escalate, causing some factions within the establishment to seek a secure way out. A compromising transition deal could be an option, but because there is no transition without transactions, one analyst said, Gonzalez and Machado will need to exercise caution. Their personal dynamic could help there: Machado is known for her firmness and resolve, while Gonzalez Urrutia brings a diplomatic touch and a focus on peace and reconciliation. A resolution to the stalemate, the columnist concluded, will be challenging  but it is not impossible.

Latin American left is treading carefully

Sources: The Guardian, El Pais

Left-leaning Latin American leaders, including Maduro allies in Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil, have treaded carefully in the aftermath of the Venezuelan election, The Guardian noted. They have called for Maduro to release vote tallies, but havent gone so far as accusing him of wrongdoing, nor have they condemned the human rights violations that have ensued since the election. Brazils Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in particular, has positioned himself as a mediator seeking to end the post-election crisis. If it works, it will be a victory for Lulas third way diplomatic strategy, which seeks to further the economic concerns of developing countries without picking a side in the great powers conflict in the current global cold war 2.0.

Chavismo can no longer count on popular support

Sources: Le Monde, Caracas Chronicles

Maduros Chavismo party has long counted on its popular electoral strength for an air of legitimacy, but it has gradually lost support, a political science professor told Le Monde. In the late 1980s, a popular uprising led to Chavezs elevation as the countrys leader  and Maduros own narrative regularly refers back to those events to give his government a direct link to that history to fall back on for legitimacy. But now, the same kinds of spontaneous protests are moving against Chavismo, and it may not recover its electoral base again, Caracas Chronicles argued. The government has genuine trouble mobilizing any sort of support in their favor, the outlet wrote. With so little support left, the government has only violence.
Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speak at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Aug. 6 (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Theyre calling it a vibes election.

Vibes are notoriously hard to spot, and they dont always show up in polls, but as Kamala Harris took to the stage in a cavernous auditorium at Temple University in Philadelphia on Tuesday with her new running mate, they were measurable in the screams and shouts of 12,000 people.

The replacement of Joe Biden at the top of the Democratic ticket by Harris has changed the energy in the room. And Harriss choice of Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her vice presidential candidate is a sign that she is banking on that energy taking her to the White House.

Its a strategy based on the idea that campaigns are not won on fear alone, but on feeling. Where Biden spoke sternly and in hushed tones of Donald Trump and the threat he posed to democracy, Harris and her running mate are here to provoke, mock and laugh at their opponents.

Walz set the tone with his first words on stage as the official vice presidential nominee. Thank you for bringing back the joy, he said to Harris.

Harris appeared to stifle her laughter after her newly announced running mate Tim Walz made reference to a viral, couch-related scandal involving JD Vance (Screengrab/ CNN)

Walz is not the most practical pick for the electoral map math  that would have been Josh Shapiro, the popular governor of the must-win Pennsylvania. But he brings a Midwest Dad energy to the ticket that stands in stark contrast to the 4Chan ramblings of JD Vance and the disjointed string of thinly-veiled racism that emanates from Donald Trump.

He was able to land dad jokes and piercing attacks on Trump and Vance with ease. One of the biggest cheers of the night  and there were a lot  came when he combined the two.

"Make no mistake, violent crime was up under Donald Trump  and thats not even counting the crimes he committed, Walz said.

He then turned his attention to his opponent on the vice presidential ticket.

"Like all 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 best seller trashing that community.

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speak at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Aug. 6 (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Come on. Thats not what Middle America is. And I got to tell you. I cant wait to debate the guy ... That is, if hes willing to get off the couch and show up," he added, in an apparent reference to a false claim spread online that Vance had intimate relations with a sofa.

Harris has been basking in this vibe shift since accepting the Democratic nomination. Here in Philadelphia, her stump speech elicited crowd participation  they knew the words; they knew how to respond.

So hear me when I say, Harris said, with a long pause for the crowd to cheer. I know Donald Trumps type.

With the addition of Walz, the Democrats now have two happy warriors on the ticket. Its a gamble but Republicans are clearly struggling to land an effective response.

As the crowd was waiting for Walz and Harris on stage, Trump seemed to be pining for his former opponent. 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 he wrote on Truth Social.

Harris supporters at the event have noticed the difference, too.

I think its a renewed energy. The city feels different, said Bridget McKeogh, a Philadelphia resident, as she waited for the rain to pass outside the event.

I love Biden. I think hes a great president. But things felt kind of old and there wasnt really an excitement around it. And thats completely changed. I see young black people registering people to vote, as well as people that look like me, she added.

Harris will be counting on this new energy to translate into practical advantages  whether that means donations or more volunteer boots on the ground. Some are already seeing it.

Oh, the vibe shift was immediate, said Marscha Levell. Within 2 or 3 hours I got a text message from one of my cousins telling me about the Zoom call for black women for Kamala, and they got 44,000 women, and they raised over $1 million in 24 hours. So that was like a major culture shift.

There was a message in the jibes, too. Harris and Walz pitched their ticket not just as joyful versus weird, but as a living representation of what it means to be American.

The promise of America is what makes it possible for two middle-class kids, one a daughter of Oakland, California, who was raised by a working mother, the other a son of the Nebraska planes who grew up working on a farm.. its the promise of America, because only in America, only in America, is it possible for them together to make it all the way to the White House, Harris said.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Vice President Kamala Harris will make her way to Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday.

On Aug. 10, Harris will head to Las Vegas to take part in a campaign event. Last week, it was announced in a news release that Harris will be campaigning nationwide alongside her recently announced running mate, Tim Walz.

The tour is already underway for Harris and Walz as they met with supporters in Michigan on Wednesday.

I dont need you telling me about our health care. I dont need you telling us who we love, said Walz.

The campaign will head to Arizona on Thursday, inching toward the entertainment capital of the world.

Simultaneously, former President Donald Trumps running mate and Ohio Senator JD Vance has been touring Midwestern America with his campaign, even walking to Air Force Two and addressing the media.

I just wanted to check out my future plane, but I also wanted to go say hello to the vice president, said Vance.

Saturdays visit will represent Harriss seventh to the Las Vegas valley.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
SAN FRANCISCO  (KRON)  Police and prosecutors mixed up who was the assailant and who was the victim during a fight on a MUNI bus, according to the San Francisco Public Defenders Office. The allegedly botched investigation led to Jerry Williams, 53, spending weeks in jail until all charges were eventually dropped.

New drone technology a game changer in reducing crime, SF officials say

According to Deputy Public Defender Ilona Yanez, Williams is not only innocent, he was the victim. According to Public Defender Mano Raju, Mr. Williams would never have gone to jail had he not been a Black man on parole.

On April 16, Williams mistakenly dropped his cash on the floor of a MUNI bus while boarding.





Approximately four seconds later, a man, who Yanez says appears to be white, behind Williams, picked up the cash on the floor.





Williams then asked for his money back, and the man denied taking the cash even though other passengers can be heard on the footage telling him to give it back, Yanez said.

The man then pushed his umbrella toward Williams chest, and Williams pushed the umbrella aside with his hand. According to Yanez, The man then reached out, grabbed and scratched Williams face, and Williams responded with a single punch in self-defense.

Williams then waited for police and gave SFPD officers a statement about what had happened. Attorneys allege that the report Williams told police could be verified by MUNI footage, which Williams allegedly begged officers to look at.

According to Yanez, officers did not search the man for Williams cash. Instead, they ran a background check on Williams. After finding out he was on parole, police then arrested Williams, who was later charged with elder abuse and felony assault, with prosecutors insisting Williams remain in custody.

After spending two weeks in jail with frequent shutdowns due to the recent rise of overcrowding and COVID cases, prosecutors dropped Williams charges.

The fact that Mr. Williams was kept in jail for two weeks, missed classes that hell have to retake, and was at risk of losing his housing is emblematic of the harms caused by police bias and prosecutors insistence on unnecessary pretrial detention, Yanez said.

Williams and Yanez believe race was a factor in the officers decision, as well as bias on Williams for being on parole. According to Yanez, Williams was a model parolee, as, throughout his four years of being on parole, he never suffered a violation.

Mr. Williams is justifiably upset that police did not believe him and that they used his parole status against him instead of actually investigating the incident to find the truth. The result was another innocent Black man in jail whose life and livelihood was disrupted because police wrongly deemed him to be the aggressor when he was actually the victim, Rajue said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Soon a neglected overlook with stunning views of the Tacoma Dome and Puget Sound will be considerably less gritty.

The Tacoma City Council recently approved a nearly $600,000 contract to give a facelift to the McKinley Overlook along East 32nd Street, from East E and F streets. The site has become a magnet for litter, loitering and homicides.

In June, 23-year-old Brichaun Pringle was fatally shot at the overlook while attempting to break up a fight, The News Tribune previously reported. Another killing unfolded there in March 2023: that of Yi Un Ortega, 43, who died of multiple gunshot wounds.

Such reasons have motivated some residents to make renovating the overlook a key goal in the McKinley Hill Neighborhood Plan.

Kristy Fry stopped to speak with The News Tribune on Monday while going for a walk on East 32nd. As someone whos served on the McKinley plans project team, activating public spaces is something that members prioritized, she said.

The homicides have been especially frustrating to residents, Fry said: But its also such a beautiful place to live. Where else in Tacoma do we have these views of Mount Rainier? Where else do we have these views of downtown and the water? We dont.

So, theres a lot of pride on the side of town, she continued. And we really enjoy getting out and enjoying our spaces.

The current view from the McKinley Overlook on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024 in Tacoma, WA. The McKinley Overlook is set to be renovated after Tacoma City Council approved of a nearly $600,000 contract last month.

What is the city doing about the McKinley Overlook?

The Tacoma City Council on July 9 agreed to spend $596,783.30, budgeted from the transportation capital fund, on the overlook contract. Construction will consist of landscaping, curb ramps, sidewalks and other pedestrian features, roadway repairs and more, according to a contract and award memo.

Today a black chain-link fence lines the area and spray paint covers city of Tacoma signage. Empty alcohol bottles dot the ground. The roadway is relatively wide and lacks infrastructure for foot traffic.

District 4 Council member Sandesh Sadalge told The News Tribune that the overlook project started as part of the McKinley neighborhood plan. His involvement in that plan marked his start in public service in Tacoma after moving here in 2019.

Some neighbors wont take their kids to the overlook because of dangers like broken glass, and others wont walk their dogs, Sadalge added.

Its a sentiment echoed by resident Kaeli Todd.

Todd said although she mostly feels safe in the neighborhood, shes also heard gunshots with increasing frequency since moving to the area in February 2020. She avoids walking her Australian cattle dog, Buck, along that stretch of East 32nd Street  but wishes she could.

Todd supports the citys efforts to fix up the overlook.

I think it would be great because that view is so beautiful, she said. And the space could be usable if it werent occupied by people who are kind of hanging out and loitering and doing things that make me feel a little less safe walking him around.

A sign prohibiting littering due to the natural wildlife hangs on the chain link fence located at McKinley Overlook on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024 in Tacoma, WA. The McKinley Overlook is set to be renovated after Tacoma City Council approved of a nearly $600,000 contract last month.

When will the McKinley Overlook be completed?

Sadalge said the project will add sidewalks and accessible ramps. A major issue for that area was a lack of visibility at night, so lighting will be included.

The overlook will soon be greener thanks to the addition of plants, he said, not to mention spots for benches. The city expects to work with artists on temporary and permanent art installations.

Clara Dubow, engineering project manager with the city, noted that the Port of Tacoma awarded the citys Planning Department about $30,000 for wayfinding signs, which will help orient folks toward the overlook. Plaques will crop up with historical tidbits and honoring tribal lands, she said. A viewfinder will allow people to take in the citys downtown sights.

Another change: Dubow said the project will narrow a section of road to 14 feet  roughly half its original width. That move should help discourage cars from speeding. The project will install around five designated parking spaces, she said.

Garbage cans will also be added to help cut back on littering, according to the projects webpage.

The overlooks construction timeline is fairly short: Dubow expects it to last a month or two. Construction is slated to start this fall and landscaping should wrap up next spring, per the webpage.

A sign detailing the on going natural restoration at McKinley Overlook is covered by graffiti on Monday, Aug. 5, 2024 in Tacoma, WA. The McKinley Overlook is set to receive a face lift which will include new landscaping. Construction on the project is set to begin this fall.

Sadalge said the McKinley neighborhood plans priorities were important to his predecessor, the late Council member Catherine Ushka.

Getting to safely access the space is a moment that cant come soon enough for many McKinley neighbors.

You get a great view of a lot of things that make Tacoma, Tacoma  and it should be activated, Sadalge said. It should be a place that families can come, that residents can come, and not feel dejected.
A fight broke out outside the headquarters of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association in Dhaka on Wednesday after a 100-strong group of members and other individuals led by former vice president Faisal Samad questioned the fitness of the trade groups leadership and demanded the resignation of its board of directors.

The altercation is a microcosm of the fierce and sometimes deadly backlash that has been mounting against members of the South Asian nations once-ruling Awami League, whose increasingly authoritative regime collapsed in spectacular fashion in the wake of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas abrupt flight from office. It took place as Bangladeshs garment factories resumed operations following the announcement of an interim government advised by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus.

More from Sourcing Journal

At the center of the schism is SM Mannan Kochi, the Seha Design managing director who succeeded Faruque Hassan in April as president of the BGMEA. Kochi, whose Sammilito Parishad faction swept the organizations biennial elections by winning all 35 directorship posts, was until recently general secretary of the Awami Leagues Dhaka City North arm.

Samad and other members of his Forum faction, which ran against Kochi in March, handed BGMEA employees a memorandum expressing no confidence in the current board, a sentiment that they said came to a head after what they allege was Kochis involvement in the violent suppression of recent student protests. They said they want to see the formation of an interim board with honest, efficient and non-political members.

We are all aware that the current BGMEA president, SM Mannan Kochi, is the general secretary of the Dhaka City North Awami League. It is very sad that on August 4, Kochi opened fire on students at Mirpur-10, the missive said. As the current president and board played a completely opposite role in this historic student movement and mass uprising, they have lost the moral right to continue fulfilling their board responsibilities.

Kochi did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

But the memorandums grouses expand beyond Kochis political affiliation. Samad and his fellow dissenters said that Sammilito Parishad wrested power through vote rigging and accused it and the board before it of corruption, cronyism and self-interest. The BGMEA did not offer condolences for the 400-plus deaths that have taken place since the protests began a few weeks ago, they said. Nor has it offered sufficient direction during the multiple production, banking and logistical disruptions that have sapped international buyers confidence in the sectors ability to deliver, potentially shunting business to other sourcing nations such as India, Cambodia or Vietnam.

The BGMEAs critics also expressed frustration that Kochi appears to have taken off, a signal, they say, that the garment industry is less of a priority to him. Hes currently overseasone source suggested Singapore, while another said he was in Bangkokseeking medical treatment for his son. While hes gone, vice president Khandokar Rafiqul Islam is serving as acting president.

Islam, on behalf of the BGMEA, immediately denounced what he described as a hostile takeover during the most vulnerable period of the country. Writing in a statement that charged Samad and his Forum faction with causing further unrest at a time when peace and order were being counseled by authorities, Islam hit out at their unlawful behavior, which he said included thrown fists and the toppling of a security gate.

Staff and board members who witnessed this violence are in a state of shock. Moreover, there are videos circulating on WhatsApp, which [have] aggrieved multiple general members of BGMEA, he said. We request the concerned bodies to initiate an immediate investigation and set an exemplary punishment for the perpetrators to restore law and order in the society.

But Miran Ali, vice president of the BGMEA and managing director of the Bitopi Group and Tarasima Apparels, took a more conciliatory view of the proceedings.

We had an amicable discussion, and we are hopingwe are certain of an amicable understanding, he told Sourcing Journal. And ultimately, all parties, regardless of which side they support, only want the benefit of the industry. So, we are all working together in this.

Still, a shakeup of the BGMEAs top ranks is perhaps inevitable, said Md. Rafiqul Islam Rana, an assistant professor of retailing at the University of South Carolina, noting that most Awami League leaders are either trying to leave the country or are in hiding. The hacked or charred bodies of nearly 30 Awami League executives and their family members have been found across Bangladesh since Monday, according to local media.

There are high risks of potential retaliation from law enforcement, people from the opposition party or even from the general population, Rana said. There might be more changes in leadership in BGMEA. In particular, officials who have strong Awami League affiliations will leave or be made to leave.

All institutions, regardless of scale and importance, could see significant changes in the coming months, if not weeks, said a Bangladeshi industry insider, who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons. Many positions across the country were filled using the Awami Leagues influence, sometimes by breaking the rules.

We have a large presence of factory owners who belong to non-Awami League backgrounds [who have been] living with major grievances foryears, the person said.
Visitors stand near a Virgin Atlantic tailfin on the second day of the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, south west of London, on July 23, 2024. Credit - Justin TallisGetty Images

The Advertising Standard Authority (ASA) of the U.K. has banned a radio advertisement from the airline Virgin Atlantic because the authority believed it could be misleading to listeners.

In November, radio listeners heard an ad describing a unique flight mission from Londons Heathrow airport to New Yorks JFK. Virgin Atlantic said the flight would use "100% sustainable fuel, making it the worlds first commercial airline to pioneer such a transatlantic flight. When they said it was too difficult, we said: Challenge accepted. Virgin Atlantic Flight 100. See the world differently, the ad stated.

However, some took issue with the wording of the advertisement. The ASA received five complaints around the phrasing of 100% sustainable fuel, which it ultimately ruled could be misleading to listeners. Virgin Atlantic claimed it was using the term sustainable fuel to refer to any kind of fuel which is not derived from fossil sources, according to the ASA ruling. These fuels emit less carbon dioxide than fossil fuels, but nevertheless still do produce carbon emissions.

Read More: FKA twigs Calls Out Double Standards After Her Calvin Klein Ad Is Banned in the U.K.

The ASA said that some listeners were unlikely to be aware of the extent to which fuels described as sustainable aviation fuel still had negative environmental impacts, and in what ways.

Per the ASA ruling, Flight 100 was calculated to have delivered savings of 64% in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil derived aviation fuel. However, the organization believed that the term 100% sustainable fuel could make consumers believe that the flight did not produce any emissions at all. Therefore, it made the decision to require Virgin Atlantic to ensure all future ads that refer to sustainable fuel include qualifying information.

In an emailed statement to TIME, Virgin Atlantic said: "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."

Virgin Atlantic also said that the term sustainable aviation fuel is used globally by industry and government for fossil-alternative aviation fuels that adhere to specific sustainability criteria.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Virginia Lottery offices in Richmond, Va. Parker Michels-Boyce for The Virginia Mercury

The Virginia Lottery announced Wednesday that $934 million in fiscal year 2024 sales profits will benefit K-12 public education, a record amount. The total amount it collected for the fiscal year that ended June 30 was more than $5.5 billion.

The Lotterys total proceeds to public education stands at $13.6 billion, and the agency continues Virginias year-over-year sales increases since the pandemic. Last year, the Virginia Lottery earned $867.4 million from lottery sales, an increase from $779.6 million in 2022.

Over the course of my administration, we have been able to achieve record funding for K-12 education, allowing for increased opportunities in the classroom, said Gov. Glenn Youngkin in a statement on Wednesday. I am so thrilled these record profits will help provide the necessary support and resources for Virginias students, the governor said, noting that about 10% of the states k-12 education budget stems from Virginia Lottery profits.

Youngkin, along with Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera, said the lottery helps to support various aspects of Virginias K-12 education, including special education, career and technical learning, and early reading intervention.

Guidera thanked lottery employees and expressed that their work helps set students up for success outside the classroom.

It is preparing every single graduate of our K-12 schools to be ready for life, and that means preparing them to be productive members of our economy, to be informed and engaged citizens in our democracy, and to be engaged, thoughtful and good neighbors in our communities, Guidera said.

The announcement of the lotterys sizable profits comes after some convenience stores shut down Virginia Lottery sales briefly in April in protest to the ban on skill games, which are still illegal in the state after a lengthy campaign to lift the ban and protracted deliberation in the legislature.

Virginia Lottery Director Khalid Reede Jones said in the past fiscal year, the agency paid $4.2 billion in prizes to lottery participants, and $142 million to retail partners, while doing so with an expense ratio of 3.8%.

In his remarks to the governor, Jones said the only thing I can promise is that we are endeavoring to make fiscal year 2025 even bigger, better and greater than this year.

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State Treasurer Vivek Malek, who is seeking a full term in office after being appointed by Gov. Mike Parson, speaks Thursday evening at the Boone County Republican Lincoln Days dinner in Columbia (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).

State Treasurer Vivek Malek defeated multiple challengers Tuesday to hold on to his partys nomination to keep his job this fall.

The Associated Press called the race for Malek at 9 p.m. He will face Democrat Mark Osmack and Libertarian John A. Hartwig Jr. in November.

I want to thank my family and everyone who gave their time and energy to this campaign, Malek said in a statement posted on social media. I am humbled to receive the Republican nomination for State Treasurer. It has been such an honor to serve this state since 2023.

Maleks campaign ads touted his support for former President Donald Trump, belief in a fortified Southern border and his advocacy for divesting from foreign adversaries.

Maleks background is as an immigration attorney, having immigrated to the United States from India in 2001. He told The Independent he is outspoken about unauthorized immigration because of the additional burden on the healthcare and education systems.

He believes granting citizenship to people who originally entered the United States without authorization incentivizes others to do the same.

But these views on immigration are not likely to impact his duties as treasurer, he said, unless there were a way to parse out spending only for lawful residents.

Malek was appointed treasurer in 2022 and took office Jan. 2023, and the offices programs have grown under his watch. With one year in office, Malek set the record for the amount returned in unclaimed property with $51.8 million returned to people, up from $50.2 million.

He inherited a months-old scholarship program MOScholars, which funds private education and reserves tax credits for donors. MOScholars had $9 million in tax credits reserved in 2022 and $16.6 million in 2023, year two into the program.

In 2023, demand for scholarships overwhelmed funds as the office tried to reckon a funding cycle based on the calendar year and the need for those dollars following the school year.

A full term, Malek said, would build on the growth hes seen in just under two years in office, though he sees the potential for a couple initiatives. He hopes the treasurers office can work with the legislature to create a mandatory personal finance course for high schoolers in upcoming legislative sessions.

He would also like to create investment opportunities for small municipalities.
A once-in-a-generation opportunity may have just become a generational setback for a handful of Americas most ambitious politicians.

Governors, senators and a Cabinet member who just a few days ago were on the short-list to be Kamala Harris running mate are now confronting a stark reality: Their two-week scramble to make the ticket might be the closest they get to the White House until 2032, if even then.

Instead, it might be a long time in the political wilderness for the vice presidential also-rans.

Several of those on Harris' shortlist were among a historically strong Democratic bench: a former astronaut and veteran in Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, 60; three popular governors in Kentuckys Andy Beshear, 46, Illinois JB Pritzker, 59, and Pennsylvanias Josh Shapiro, 51; and another former veteran in Pete Buttigieg, the 42-year-old Transportation secretary who had a surprisingly strong 2020 presidential campaign as "Mayor Pete."

A victory for Harris and her new running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, would block them from the White House for up to eight years  or perhaps longer if Walz then runs for president, though he has said he told Harris and her team hes not angling for anything else.

If the Democratic ticket wins this fall, it complicates it a lot, said former Sen. Evan Bayh of Indiana, who was passed over as the vice presidential pick in 2008 and 2000. He added: But the one thing we do know for certain is that if there's a Vice President Walz, then that complicates any other prospects futures to a much greater degree than if he's just been a candidate Walz.



Still, the contenders Harris did not choose all offered, in quick succession, words of support for Walz on Tuesday.

I'm very proud that another governor is now in the spot and helping Kamala Harris, Pritzker told reporters. Kelly said Harris and Walz are going to move us forward. Beshear said it was an honor to be considered, and praised Walz as a great friend and a great choice. Buttigieg praised his Midwestern voice, military experience, and common-sense values, while Shapiro said hed campaign across Pennsylvania for the ticket.

And there are signs some had conflicted feelings about potentially being chosen themselves. Shapiro, for example, called Harris campaign to say he was struggling with the decision to leave his current job as governor of Pennsylvania, in order to seek the vice presidency, according to a person familiar with the selection process.

But politics is a matter of timing.

When President Joe Biden ended his own candidacy, the party quickly elected to solidify around Harris rather than conduct an open primary ahead of the Democratic National Convention. But the race for a running mate was wide open. And the two-week sprint led to an effective mini-primary for a spot on the ticket.

That audition process came to include at least one hype video and some mini-rallies for Shapiro  which Harris team later called counterproductive  and some dueling memos backing some of those candidates, namely for Buttigieg and, later, Walz.

Broadly, the veepstakes gave accomplished Democrats a chance to get national attention for their work on behalf of the party, a kind of valedictory and show-and-tell for its most promising candidates.

Among them was Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan, who received his own brief turn in the spotlight as a possible Harris pick in the early days, having been her seatmate in the Senate. In an interview, he called the experience humbling.

Everybody, any ambition they may have, it's time to check it at the door and roll up your sleeves and get to work, because we have to win, and the stakes are just too high, he said.

And while one Midwesterner got his ticket punched on Tuesday, the fall for another, Buttigieg, hit his supporters especially hard, even though as the youngest contender he may have more time ahead of him. Of all of the potential candidates, he had stood out in the 2020 presidential campaign, winning the most delegates in the Iowa caucuses and finishing second to Sen. Bernie Sanders in New Hampshire.



Buttigiegs supporters had angled especially hard on his behalf ahead of the pick. Sensing Buttigieg was not getting namechecked enough as a possible vice presidential candidate in the early hours after Biden dropped out, George Hornedo, the founder of Next Gen Hoosiers, an organization aimed at elevating new candidates for office, and former national delegate director for Buttigiegs presidential campaign, authored a memo that was at the time anonymous analyzing the field and pushing the Transportation secretary as the pick.

He and Stefan Smith, another Buttigieg alum, marshaled the candidates digital army to share clips from his past appearances and auditions online. The memo reached the upper echelons of Harris orbit, opened and read by some of those closest to her before the weekend.

But like everyone else not named Walz, he was left behind  his supporters recalibrating to the reality of Walz.

I've been a Buttigieg supporter for over five years, so of course it's a little disappointing, Jill Zimmerman of Ann Arbor, Michigan, who now posts as Ann Arbor for Harris/Walz on X, told POLITICO.

She added, But Im also a big fan of Governor Walz.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this report misspelled Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker's name.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, in his first appearance as Vice President Harriss running mate, came out swinging against former President Trump and Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance (Ohio).

I just have to say it. You know it. You feel it. These guys are creepy and, yes, just weird as hell. Thats what you see, Walz said to raucous applause from the rally crowd in Philadelphia, using the viral new framing of the Trump campaign as weird.

If Trump gets a chance to return, hes going to pick up exactly where he left off four years ago. Only this time, it will be much, much worse, Walz said, arguing the GOP nominee would repeal the Affordable Care Act, gut Social Security and Medicare and ban abortion nationwide.

He never sat at that kitchen table, like the one I grew up at, wondering how we were going to pay the bills. He sat at his country club in Mar-a-Lago, wondering how he can cut taxes for his rich friends, Walz said.

The Minnesota governor then knocked his vice presidential rival, arguing that Vance shares Trumps dangerous and backward agenda for this country.

Like all 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. Come on! Thats not what middle America is, Walz said, adding that he cant wait to debate the guy.

Walz emerged from a competitive veepstakes to join Harris on her newly formed presidential ticket, just two weeks after President Biden made the historic move to exit the 2024 race.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D), who kicked off the rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday night with effusive praise for both candidates, and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly (D) were also seen as top contenders.

Walz saw his political star rise rapidly over the past week as clips of him branding Republicans weird caught fire online, prompting other top Democrats to use the label in place of their typical framing of Trump as an existential threat to democracy.

Harris officially secured the Democratic nomination Tuesday, and the Harris-Walz campaign is positioned to go up against the Trump-Vance ticket this fall.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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' selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, Marijuana Moment's Kyle Jaeger notes, means that "the ticket now consists of two candidates who support marijuana legalization"a "historic first." Walz actually arrived at that position before Harris did. His record as a congressman from 2007 through 2018, a period when Harris was still laughing at the very idea of legalization, includes several votes in favor of marijuana reform, and he ran for governor in 2017 on a promise to "create a system of regulation and taxation for adult-use marijuana."

As governor, Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana. He also supported legislation authorizing supervised drug consumption facilities, eliminating legal barriers to needle exchange programs, and creating a Psychedelic Medicine Task Force.

Beginning in 2007, his first year in Congress, Walz repeatedly supported legislation aimed at preventing federal interference with state medical marijuana programs. Those bills included the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment, which Congress finally approved in 2014 and has renewed every year since. That spending rider prohibits the Justice Department from using appropriated funds to "prevent" states from "implementing" their medical marijuana laws. As interpreted by the courts, it bars federal prosecution of state-licensed medical marijuana providers.

The same year that Congress approved that restriction, which was also the year that Minnesota legislators approved medical marijuana, Walz voted for an amendment aimed at protecting financial institutions that serve state-licensed cannabis suppliers. He also thought the protection offered by the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment should be extended to businesses that serve the recreational market. In 2015, the year after the first recreational pot shops opened in Colorado and Washington, Walz supported the McClintock-Polis Amendment, which would have barred the Justice Department from targeting those businesses as well.

Without that protection, prosecutorial discretion is the only thing that shields recreational marijuana suppliers from the threat of criminal charges and asset forfeiture. When Jeff Sessions, former President Donald Trump's first attorney general, rescinded a memo supporting such forbearance in 2018, Walz criticized that decision. Sessions is "dead set on overruling states that have legalized recreational or medical cannabis, including [Minnesota]," Walz complained. He promised to "keep fighting alongside the 83% of vets & caregivers who support legalizing medical cannabis nationally."

By 2017, when Walz was running for governor, he had become a full-throated advocate of legalization. "It's time to create a system of regulation and taxation for adult-use marijuana in MN," he said. Harris did not come out in favor of legalization until the following year.

As USA Today notes, "Harris has been criticized for aggressively prosecuting weed-related crimes when she was California's attorney general and San Francisco's district attorney, particularly given the racial disparities in punishment nationwide." She opposed a California legalization initiative in 2010, when she was the San Francisco district attorney; laughed at a question about legalization in 2014, when she was running for attorney general against a Republican who favored it; and declined, as California's attorney general, to take a position on the 2016 initiative that finally legalized recreational use in her state. But as a senator in 2018, she finally took the plunge, saying "we need to decriminalize marijuana nationwide." Later that year, she cosponsored a bill that would have repealed federal prohibition, and she introduced a similar bill in 2019.

That year, his first as Minnesota's governor, Walz instructed state agencies to start preparing for marijuana legalization, saying he wanted them to "put all of the building blocks in place." The bill he signed four years later, after Democrats won control of the state Senate, allowed adults 21 or older to possess two ounces or less of marijuana in public, share that amount with other adults, keep two pounds or less at home, and grow up to eight plants, four of which are mature. Those provisions took effect in August 2023.

The Adult-Use Cannabis Act also established an Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to license and regulate commercial production and distribution. Marijuana products are subject to a 10 percent retail tax, in addition to standard state and local sales taxes (which total about 8 percent in Minneapolis, for example). Local governments are allowed to regulate retailers and cap their number but are not allowed to ban them entirely.

Minnesota's first recreational dispensaries opened last summer on tribal land. The OCM says "the process for general licenses will be announced soon."

Minnesota legislators addressed an issue that was neglected in early recreational marijuana laws, requiring automatic expungement of marijuana misdemeanors. In May, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced that it had expunged 57,780 records "almost three months ahead of schedule." Those records "are no longer visible to the public in the Minnesota Criminal History System (CHS)." The department said it would "provide a by-agency list of records expunged in the CHS to local criminal justice agencies, so that they can expunge related records in their own systems."

The Adult-Use Cannabis Act also created a Cannabis Expungement Board, which is charged with reviewing marijuana felony cases for resentencing under current law or expungement. "Because each record must be considered individually," DPS said, "this process could take several years to complete."

Walz highlighted the expungement provisions when he signed the bill. "This has been a long journey with a lot of folks involved," he said. "What we know right now is prohibition does not work. We've criminalized a lot of folks who are going to start the expungement process on those records."

Walz's drug policy record probably would not make much difference in a Harris administration, especially since Harris already supports legalization, along with expungement of federal marijuana records (both of which require congressional action). But it is a belated sign of the times that both slots of a major party's presidential ticket have been filled by politicians who have joined a large majority of Americans in opposing marijuana prohibition.

Neither Trump nor his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance (ROhio), has been willing to go that far. Both Trump and Vance have said states should be free to legalize marijuana, but they also have expressed distaste for the policy. Vance, who voted against marijuana banking reform in committee last year, later claimed it "would have opened up access to banking resources for fentanyl traffickers and others."

In an interview last May, Vance, whose state legalized recreational marijuana by ballot initiative last November, allowed that "you don't want people thrown in prison for having a dime bag," which "mercifully doesn't happen most of the time in this country." But he added that "we haven't quite figured out how this new regime coexists with not polluting our public spaces." He said "a big frustration that I have" is that "you take your kids downtown Cincinnati to go to a restaurant, and you walk by, like, five people who are stoned. It smells terrible. I don't want that." Vance suggested that "we just need a different cultural sensibility that if we're going to go into this more open regime, people have to actually take some responsibility and not do it around, y'know, 6-year-old kids."

That seems reasonable enough. Vance's objections seem mild compared to those voiced by Trump, who has said marijuana legalization "is bad," claiming it had caused "some big problems" in Colorado. He nevertheless added that "if they vote for it, they vote for it."

The post Walz, Like Harris, Supports Marijuana Legalizationbut He Beat Her to the Punch appeared first on Reason.com.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz does not own any stocks, securities or real estate, per the newly minted Democratic vice presidential candidates most recent financial disclosures.

Axios first reported the disclosures Wednesday following the announcement Tuesday that Walz would join Vice President Harris on the Democratic ticket to oppose former President Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio).

The findings come from the disclosures that Walz filed earlier this year as governor and in 2018 during his last year serving in the House. Walz represented Minnesotas 1st Congressional District from 2007 to 2019 before being elected to his first term as governor.

The disclosure he filed as governor shows that he did not report any businesses owned, securities or real estate. It also does not mention any speaking fees or book deals.

Walz and his wife, Gwen, do not own their home, having reportedly sold their house in Mankato, Minn., in 2019, the first year of his time as governor, and moved into the governors mansion as their only residence.

Walzs only investment comes from pensions, including from his past time as a teacher. He taught social studies for years before first running for Congress in 2006.

Most elected officials tend to have considerably more financial investments.

Harris and Walz appeared at their first campaign rally together in Philadelphia on Tuesday evening, kicking off what will be a roughly 90-day campaign after President Biden announced he would end his reelection bid last month.

The Democratic National Committee announced following the rally on Tuesday that Harris and Walz had officially been certified as the partys nominees for president and vice president, respectively. They are set to accept their nominations at the Democratic convention in Chicago later this month.

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At this time of year, those of us who are not somewhere hot and exotic can feel a little left out. Should you be reading this in riot-ridden Blighty, I bring glad tidings: there is an amazingly cheap and easy way to replicate that fancy foreign holiday feeling without having to set foot in an airport. All you have to do is drive to a B road near you and hey presto! You could be on an African safari.

There are so many potholes that, for absolutely no charge and no jet lag, it is possible to feel like youve been transported somewhere far flung and exotic. As you wind your way through the countryside or even suburbia, just ignore the view, and focus on that bumpy sensation, while praying that the bottom of your car doesnt fall out.

Near my home in the Cotswolds, I get to experience this thrill all year round, on a stretch of road with so many potholes that it is more of an assault course than a means of getting from A to B. There may not be any rhinos or Big Game knocking around, but in a low-slung vehicle there are other adrenalin-generating excitements, such as very real danger of a blowout. Even in a 4x4, driving anywhere near the speed limit would be as reckless as a jog in the Maasai Mara.

Oxfordshire County Council, which is responsible for the stretch of road in question, recently astonished everybody by resurfacing some routes, activity that is almost unheard of among cash-strapped local authorities. Bewilderingly, however, they neglected to repair the very worst bit. Another winter of neglect, and the AA is going to need specialist winches to recover stricken vehicles.

According to the RAC, the UK now has more than a million potholes, which certainly keeps their mechanics busy. Last year, they attended almost 30,000 breakdowns linked to potholes, a third more than in 2022. Faults included twisted wheels, broken suspension springs and damaged shock absorbers. Their pothole map of Great Britain suggests that it is almost impossible to escape this curse. Though it does reveal some better areas in remote parts of Scotland, that is probably because there are more sheep than cars.

In 2022, some boffins began putting it about that electric cars are to blame for our crumbling road network. They calculated that battery-powered vehicles could cause an additional 20-40 per cent road wear because they are so much heavier than traditional cars. Amid an obesity crisis, the gross national tonnage of the great British public is also a consideration: perhaps fat passengers are equally to blame? In truth though, we all know who is really at fault: all those council chiefs who think painting a pretty white line round the crater is quite enough.

During the general election campaign, Labour promised a massive blitz on this blight. Labelling the problem a plague, Sir Keir Starmer pledged: We are going to fix it.

Well good luck with that and Godspeed  though until youve made progress, I dont recommend anything over 10mph. Prime Minister, we the people may be divided on many issues, but on this one, the entire nation is behind you.

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Wanted suspect arrested nearly five months after fight led to balcony fall, shot fired

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  A man wanted in connection to an incident on Matilda Lane was arrested on Tuesday, according to the Columbus Police Department.

Adrian Keaton has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault, one count of possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

These charges stem back to March 26 in the 3300 block of Matilda Lane. Police say during a confrontation with another man, Keaton produced a weapon.

During the fight, both men fell from a second-floor balcony. According to CPD, Keaton fired a round during the fall, and caused injury to the victim by landing on him.

Keaton was taken into custody on Tuesday following an investigation.

Keatons hearing at Recorders Court is scheduled for Aug. 8 at 9 a.m.

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Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) on Tuesday called on the Biden administration to regulate lethal injection drugs, arguing the difficulty in ensuring such drugs are safe has led to botched executions.

The letter from the senators was addressed to Attorney General Merrick Garland, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Robert M. Califf and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Anne Milgram.

The senators express particular concern over the racial disparities in botched executions.

Black people on death row have a 220 percent greater chance of suffering a botched lethal injection execution than white people.

The FDA and DEA have the regulatory authority to prevent the procurement of dangerous, low-quality drugs from secretive suppliers with a history of regulatory infractions, the letter reads.

Although lethal injection is the most common method of execution, the senators point to a study released earlier this year attributing botched executions to a variety of factors, including secrecy, illicit drug procurement, poor quality drugs and haste.

We need to end the death penalty once and for all, Warren said in a statement to The Hill. But as long as it exists, the federal government should at the very least regulate lethal injection drugs to minimize the risk of botched executions and to protect the safety of the publics drug supply chain.

The letter follows a May letter calling on the DOJ to rescind the 2019 Office of Legal Counsel opinion that the FDA does not have the ability to regulate drugs intended for use in executions.

The opinion is deeply flawed  both legally and morally  and has posed unnecessary risks for individuals on death row, including the risk of suffering a botched execution, the letter said.

Wednesdays letter highlights issues with companies that provide the lethal drug concoction.

Rite-Away Pharmacy in San Antonio, for instance, which supplied lethal injection drugs to the state of Texas, has a history of citations for safety and cleanliness violations, including a failure to maintain sterile conditions and improper record-keeping, the letter said.

During delivery of the drugs to Texas execution sites, the legislators said, the small, closely guarded delivery team was subject to minimal oversight.

Meanwhile, another branch of the same pharmacy had previously been sued by the federal government for dispensing medications without valid prescriptions, falsifying records and providing high doses of fentanyl without a legitimate medical purpose.

The legislators argue Texas is not the only state to engage with pharmacies with dubious histories.

A recent report by The Associated Press found Utah had considered using ketamine along with fentanyl for an upcoming execution if unable to obtain the common execution drug pentobarbital.

If authorities were to go through with the plan, Utah would be the first state in the country to use ketamine in an execution and would experimentally combine it with fentanyl and potassium chloride.

The individual slated for the execution has argued that this combination could cause severe pain mental anguish.

In the letter, legislators say Utah has revealed little about how the state is procuring the fentanyl and ketamine, or how it plans to safeguard the drugs from leaking from the states supply chain into the public.

Just as the DEA and FDA regulate other drugs, these agencies have a responsibility to regulate drugs intended for executions, Warren told The Hill.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  An Alaska Airlines flight made an emergency landing at Portland International Airport (PDX) in Oregon on Monday afternoon.

In footage captured Keith Miller, a UPS operations manager at PXD and a self-described aviation nerd, the planes front wheel could be seen wobbling on the runway after touching down at PDX.

An Alaska Airlines plane makes an emergency landing on PDX International Airport on August 5, 2024. (Keith Miller)

Rough day for @AlaskaAir Horizon AS2020 flight today, Miller wrote on X. Great job by the crew to keep it on centerline!

Early results roll in for 2024 Washington state primary

Flight 2020, operated by Horizon Air, was originally slated to arrive in Redmond, Oregon, from Seattle, but diverted to Portland due to a problem with its hydraulic system, an Alaska Airlines spokesperson told Nexstars KOIN.

The hydraulic system controls various systems on the aircraft, including control of the nose wheel steering, the spokesperson said.

Our flight crew is trained for scenarios like this, declared an emergency for priority landing, and landed without incident.

Guests were ultimately accommodated on another plane, which landed in Redmond about two hours later than scheduled, according to Alaska Airlines.

The original aircraft is currently under inspection.

We apologize to our guests for the inconvenience, a spokesperson for the carrier added.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  An Alaska Airlines flight made an emergency landing at Portland International Airport (PDX) in Oregon on Monday afternoon.

In footage captured Keith Miller, a UPS operations manager at PXD and a self-described aviation nerd, the planes front wheel could be seen wobbling on the runway after touching down at PDX.

Flight to Amsterdam diverted to JFK after passengers served spoiled food: Delta

An Alaska Airlines plane makes an emergency landing on PDX International Airport on August 5, 2024. (Keith Miller)

Rough day for @AlaskaAir Horizon AS2020 flight today, Miller wrote on X. Great job by the crew to keep it on centerline!

Flight 2020, operated by Horizon Air, was originally slated to arrive in Redmond, Oregon, from Seattle, but diverted to Portland due to a problem with its hydraulic system, an Alaska Airlines spokesperson told Nexstars KOIN.

The hydraulic system controls various systems on the aircraft, including control of the nose wheel steering, the spokesperson said.

Our flight crew is trained for scenarios like this, declared an emergency for priority landing, and landed without incident.

Guests were ultimately accommodated on another plane, which landed in Redmond about two hours later than scheduled, according to Alaska Airlines.

The original aircraft is currently under inspection.

We apologize to our guests for the inconvenience, a spokesperson for the carrier added.

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Bon Ivers Justin Vernon (Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

Today, Bon Iver performed at a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, in Justin Vernons hometown of Eau Claire, Wisconsin. They played Towers, 666 , and Flume. And, notably, Bon Iver ended the set with a cover of The Battle Cry of Freedom, a patriotic song written by George Frederick Root in support of the Union and abolitionism during the Civil War. Watch footage from the rally below and at X.

Were gonna close out here with a nice, old, patriotic song thats been rolling around in my head these past months, Vernon said before playing The Battle Cry of Freedom. I love this melody and I love yall. I appreciate you. Were here for the right reasons and we all know what were here for, so were going to do our thing, make this music, and make way for the people that we need to hear from.

When sharing the news that Bon Iver would perform at Harris Eau Claire rally, the band stated, Its time to rally around the right candidate for President. One who will fight for womens and trans rights, and govern with dignity and respect.

Todays rally performance was the latest in Bon Ivers long history of political engagement, both locally and nationally. Earlier this year, the band pledged their support for Democrat Nick Butlers campaign for local Wisconsin government. Vernon was also a vocal advocate of Bernie Sanders in the 2016 and 2020 elections and played at several rallies and fundraisers. He also promotes nonpartisan voter registration drives when possible, including at the Eaux Claires Music Festival he co-founded with the Nationals Aaron Dessner.

Originally Appeared on Pitchfork
Watch: Dog sets house on fire by chewing on power bank

Two dogs look on as fire grows

The moment a dog caused a house fire after chewing on a battery power bank has been caught on video.

An indoor home camera captured the footage of the pet, which had been gnawing on the lithium-ion battery like a toy.

A power bank is essentially a portable battery that can be used to charge electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets,and laptops on the go.

However, their owners are often unaware of their potential fire risk.

In the video released by the Tulsa fire department in Oklahoma, two dogs and a cat can be seen in the living room.

The dog, lying on its front, starts playing with the battery before it starts to emit sparks. A thick cloud of smoke then fills the room, and the battery erupts into flames.

The family was safely evacuated, according to local media, and the animals escaped through a pet flap in the door.

Had there not been a dog door, [the pets] very well could have passed away, Andy Little, of the Tulsa fire department, told a local television station.

Battery fires a critical issue

Mr Little added that fires caused by lithium-ion batteries were a critical issue affecting fire departments across the United States.

Many individuals keep these batteries within their homes for convenience, unaware of the potential dangers they pose, he said.

I urge you to watch the video footage from this fire to understand the severity of the situation.

The batteries are known for storing a significant amount of energy in a compact space.

However, when this energy was released uncontrollably, it could produce heat and flammable and toxic gases, and could even cause explosions, Mr Little warned.

These incidents can be triggered by exposure to extreme heat, physical damage to the battery, overcharging or using incompatible charging equipment.

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WATCH: Florida county leaders help rescue man trapped in Debby floodwaters

A new video shows the recovery efforts after Hurricane Debby impacted Florida on Monday.

A drone video shows a group pulling a man out of his car in Manatee County.

These werent firefighters or police who made that rescue.

Watch: As TS Debby slowly moves away, another system could develop in the Gulf

This group includes the countys public safety director, chief-of-staff, commissioners, and other government leaders.

Theres obviously at least one occupant. Its swift water man, said Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge in a 911 call.

Read: Central Florida crews respond to areas flooded by Hurricane Debby

Those county leaders were doing damage assessments when they saw a man trapped in the floodwaters.

With the help of a good Samaritan, they were able to get him to safety.

Watch: Driver dies after semi-truck crashes into canal along I-75 in Tampa

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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida deputy is being hailed a hero after he rushed into a large pond to save a 5-year-old boy with autism after he wandered away from his home Tuesday night.

The boys father told the Volusia County Sheriffs Office his son escaped from their Deltona home around 7:30 p.m. through a second-story door, which set off an alarm. The family immediately began looking, asked neighbors for help, and called 911.

Pommel horse powerhouse Stephen Nedoroscik lands in Sarasota a 2x Olympic medalist

Deputies began searching the home with no luck. However, knowing that the boy had autism and was attracted to water, deputies began checking bodies of water near the Valmont Lane neighborhood.





During the search, Deputy Wes Brough and others headed for a large pond a few blocks away behind Toluca Court. Then, around 7:48 p.m., Brough heard a voice and spotted the 5-year-old out in the water, hanging onto a log.

Body camera footage shows Brough immediately jump into the pond and carry the boy to dry land, where he was medically cleared and returned to his family.

The sheriffs office confirmed the boys family had taken several measures to secure the house, including the alarm on the door that immediately alerted the family the boy had gone missing.

The boys rescue comes after similar situations in Orlando recently. In both instances, the young children were found dead in bodies of water.

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Vice President Harris will appear with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in their first rally together Tuesday in Philadelphia, just hours after Harriss announcement that Walz will be her running mate in this years election.

Polling shows that the Minnesota governor, also a former House member, was until today relatively unknown to most people in the U.S.

And the Harris-Walz rally follows close behind another event in Philadelphia from the opposing camp.

GOP vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) appeared with people affected by narcotics trafficking into the U.S., suggesting that border policy under the Biden-Harris administration has had a direct effect on the lives of Americans. Vance said hes congratulated Walz on his candidacy, and said that he expects to debate his Democratic counterpart at some point following the Democratic National Convention.

The transfer of candidacy from President Biden to Harris necessitated a compressed schedule to select a name for the second spot on the Democratic ticket, with the sitting vice president holding interviews for a would-be successor at her Naval Observatory residence last weekend.

Tuesdays event with Harris and Walz is scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m. EDT.

Watch the live video above.

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The ACCC is investigating the safety of aftermarket childrens car seat head straps and baby bottle self-feeding devices, after the Assistant Treasurer issued Safety Warning Notices for each of the products .

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission notes that safety warning notices warn consumers of the possible risks of injury or death to infants and children associated with the use of these 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.

Aftermarket childrens 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.

Baby bottle self-feeding devices are designed to position bottles so liquid can flow into infants mouths without the assistance of a caregiver, which the safety warning notice warns may increase the possible risk of suffocation, aspiration pneumonia, choking or ear infection. This is because babies are unable to regulate the flow of liquid, Lowe said.

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.

Protecting vulnerable young children and strengthening product safety online are priorities for the ACCC.

Aftermarket childrens car seat head straps

Aftermarket childrens car seat head straps are predominantly supplied in Australia by third party sellers via online platforms and small online businesses.

The head straps come in various designs and typically feature a forehead strap that attaches to the top a of a child car seat.

Concerns have been raised with the ACCC that these products may alter the alignment of a childs head, neck, and spine while the torso moves forward during a motor vehicle accident. This may 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 or drop around a childs mouth or neck.

While the ACCC is not aware of any reports where head straps have been directly linked to injuries or fatalities in Australia, it was reported in 2021 that in the UK an 8-month-old infant died due to suffocation connected to the use of a head strap in a car accident.

Under the sAustralian Consumer Law, suppliers of child restraints are required to comply with the Mandatory Standard for child restraints for use in motor vehicles, however this only prevents the supply of accessories supplied with the child restraint by the manufacturer and does not apply to aftermarket head straps.

Baby bottle self-feeding products

Baby bottle self-feeding devices fall into twocategories  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 babies to choke as they are unable to regulate the flow of liquid.

The self-feeding devices may also increase the risk of suffocation if the babys head moves, leading it to be smothered, and may cause ear infections if the baby is fed while on their back.

The use of baby bottle self-feeding products is not recommended according to Commonwealth, and state and territory government advice, which advises against propping up a bottle for a baby to feed and feeding a baby unsupervised.

The ACCC is aware of four fatalities associated with self-feeding products and propped products overseas. Three fatalities associated with self-feeding products were reported in the US between 2018 to 2021. There was also one fatality in the UK in 2015 when a four-month-old was left to feed unsupervised in a car seat with a bottle propped using a blanket.

There are currently no mandatory product safety or information standards that apply to these products in Australia.

Advice to consumers

Consumers who have purchased or own these products should immediately stop using them and dispose of them safely so that they cannot be used by anyone else.

Consumers should check the car seat manufacturers instructions before purchasing and fitting aftermarket accessories.

For self-feeding products, consumers should always follow government safe baby feeding advice to never prop up a bottle or leave an infant to feed unsupervised.

Advice to suppliers

The ACCC strongly advises suppliers of these products to conduct a risk assessment and take any action necessary to address any safety issues, which could include initiating a voluntary product safety recall and notifying the ACCC via the online form on the ACCC website.

Background

Following the ACCCs investigation of both aftermarket childrens car seat head straps and baby bottle self-feeding devices, the ACCC will provide recommendations to the Assistant Treasurer, including on whether further action is needed to prevent supply of the products or mitigate the possible product safety risks.

Baby bottle self-feeding devices are banned in Canada and Ireland and in 2022 the UK issued Product Safety Alerts for all baby bottle-self feeding products and issued withdrawal notices to several online platforms.

The ACCC is not aware of regulatory actions taken internationally by product safety regulators concerning aftermarket childrens car seat head straps.
Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told theGrio that passing federal legislation in Congress is something that we want to see get done.

This week marks the 59th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Nearly six decades after the act granted Black Americans the right to vote without fear of racial discrimination, data from the Brennan Center for Justice shows that the turnout gap between Black and brown voters and white voters has steadily increased over the years.

Advocates and experts point out those numbers are a result of rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court that struck down key provisions in the Voting Rights Act that sought to prevent the disenfranchisement of Black and brown voters. During a recent White House briefing, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told theGrio that passing federal legislation in Congress to restore voting rights protections is something that we want to see get done.

In the absence of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and Freedom to Vote Act, Jean-Pierre said, President Joe Biden signed an executive order calling for federal agencies to expand voter registration. The White House spokesperson also noted that Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, called for the anniversary to serve as a day of action.

As Biden and Harris continue to call on Congress to pass bills that Republicans have stalled for years, Jean-Pierre told theGrio the White House is doing everything it can to ensure that every eligible American can exercise their right to vote and have their vote counted.

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A spokesman for the election campaign of Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Corona) dismissed the complaint as "meritless" and politically motivated. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press)

A liberal watchdog group is seeking an investigation into Inland Empire Rep. Ken Calvert, the longest-serving Republican in California's congressional delegation.

The campaign finance reform group End Citizens United filed a complaint Tuesday with the Office of Congressional Ethics alleging that Calvert failed to disclose information about various rental properties that he owns in Riverside County.

The complaint follows a Times story on Calvert's use of the legislative process known as earmarking to secure more than $100 million in taxpayer funds for his district, including more than $16 million for transportation projects within a few miles of his own rental properties.

"This is a meritless complaint from a far-left super PAC that's endorsed Ken's opponent, and worse  one that gets the facts wrong," said Calvin Moore, a spokesman for Calvert's reelection campaign.

A spokesman for End Citizens United said the group is a traditional non-connected political action committee that is allowed to make campaign contributions to candidates. Super PACs can spend unlimited amounts to support or oppose candidates, but cannot give directly to their campaigns.

Questions over Calvert's real estate investments have resurfaced as the longtime congressman faces off against Democrat Will Rollins, a former federal prosecutor. California's 41st Congressional District, which includes Corona and Palm Springs, is considered one of the country's most competitive races.

The Times found that Calvert failed to disclose the purchase of an automotive repair center in Corona that he acquired in 2016, an omission that his office described as a clerical error. The property sits about a mile from a bridge that received $2 million in earmarked funds through Calvert's office.

Calvert's office said Calvert bought the property with his brothers for $2.25 million in September 2016 and had an 11% stake in the deal, valued at $247,000.

Moore said that Calvert "has always gone above and beyond to provide transparency in his financial disclosure statements." Calvert filed six years of amended financial disclosures last week to disclose his purchase of the automotive repair center.

The complaint filed Tuesday also alleged that Calvert failed to report the purchase of two other properties, in Corona and Palm Springs. Jason Gagnon, a spokesman for Calvert's office, said one property was disclosed properly and the other was a personal loan that Calvert disclosed "even though he was not required to do so."

The Office of Congressional Ethics is an independent group with no subpoena power that reviews allegations against members of the House of Representatives and, in some cases, refers cases to the House Ethics Committee for further investigation.

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WAUSAU  Wausaus novel lead service line replacement program, funded by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is well into its first year.

The Environmental Protection Agency updated its rules for lead in drinking water in 2021, which paired with billions of dollars of investments in infrastructure from Congress.

Wausau was in an Accelerators program as the EPA developed new systems to deliver the new funding. The city was able to capitalize on being a first mover on the program and secured $5.7 million in the first of five years that the funds are available.

To secure further funding, the city is considering an ordinance mandating the replacement of the estimated 8,000 lead service lines that exist in the city. A Committee of the Whole meeting will be held at 6:45 p.m. Aug. 19 in the Council Chambers at City Hall to discuss it.

Heres what else you need to know about the program.

Waukesha-based Five Star Energy Services has a three-year contract to replace lead service lines in Wausau with new copper pipes.

Why did the EPA update drinking water rules?

Lead is a toxic metal that is harmful to human health at low exposure levels and it is persistent, meaning it builds up in a persons body over time.

Low levels of lead exposure to children have been linked to damage to the central and peripheral nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter stature, impaired hearing, and impaired formation and function of blood cells, according to the EPA. Pregnant people exposed to lead may experience reduced growth of the fetus or premature birth. Adults exposed to lead could experience cardiovascular effects such as increased blood pressure or hypertension, decreased kidney function and reproductive problems.

The EPA first issued rules about lead and copper in 1991, which set a goal for allowable lead contamination in drinking water at zero but set a level where entities are required to act at 15 parts per billion.

Updates to the Lead and Copper Rule in 2021 prompted new efforts to identify and remove lead in drinking water systems across the country.

For the first time in nearly thirty years, this action incorporates best practices and strengthens every aspect of the rule, including closing loopholes, accelerating the real world pace of lead service line replacement, and ensuring that lead pipes will be replaced in their entirety, EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said in a 2020 press release announcing the rule revisions.

How is Wausau using the $5.7M in federal funding it received?

The city of Wausau received $5.7 million dollars through the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace about 700 lead service lines for eligible property owners in the first year of the program.

The city of Wausau entered into a contract with Community Infrastructure Partners (CIP), or Equiflow, in February to carry out a community-based public private partnership (CBP3). The EPA is pioneering the use of this model in recent years to deliver infrastructure investments in ways that benefit local contractors and facilitate smaller projects like managing precipitation runoff in Milwaukee.

The city estimated it would cost $80 million to remove 8,000 lead service lines at the national average cost per line of $10,000, Eric Jones, project manager for Equiflow, explained to a Wausau Daily Herald reporter. Once the citys agreement with Equiflow was finalized and the federal funding was secured, Equiflow had 30 contractors attend an informational meeting and ultimately had six apply and be deemed eligible to bid for work related to lead service line replacement.

The construction contract was awarded to Waukesha-based Five Star Energy Services who agreed to three years of work at a flat price of $4,820 for a customer-side replacement and $6,000 for a full replacement of the lead service line.

The lower-than-estimated cost of the replacements is allowing the federal funding to fully cover about 700 lead service line replacements for eligible property owners in the first year of the program. The city will be submitting its next application for funding in October.

Why is the city considering an ordinance mandating lead service line removal?

Updates to the federal rules regarding lead in drinking water have created a specific point of tension regarding water service lines, according to Eric Lindman, director of public works and utilities for the city of Wausau. The portion of the line on a property owners land is considered customer-owned but the water that passes through it does not enter the customers possession until it passes the meter, typically located in a building on the property.

Before the rule change, the city of Wausau had been performing partial replacements of lead service lines if they could not secure an agreement with a property owner to replace the entire line. However, partial replacements have been found to break lead particles loose, which can then move into a propertys water system.

Further drinking water rules introduced by the EPA in November 2023 suggested a timeline of 10 years to replace all water service lines made of lead or galvanized steel. Galvanized steel can trap lead particles and release them unexpectedly and are considered just as hazardous as pipes made out of lead.

The ordinance mandating their removal being considered by Wausau City Council on Aug. 19 is looking forward to this impending requirement. Once the rules are fully enacted, the citys water system may be found to be out of compliance with water quality standards because of remaining lead private-side water service lines, if they are not all replaced.

Fifty-one homes in Wausau have had lead service lines replaced as of July 19 and 133 are expected to be replaced in August as part of a program funded by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Where can I find the proposed 'mandate' language?

The Water Works Commission began talking about this kind of ordinance in 2020, Lindman told a Daily Herald reporter. It has gone through several iterations before reaching the July 9 Common Council meeting, where Council members tabled the ordinance until August so they could have more time to study the issue.

Language in the ordinance states the mandate would only be enforceable while federal, state or local cost assistance programs were available to reduce the cost burden for property owners.

A draft of the current version of the ordinance is available on the "Information on Lead" section on the city's website.

Lindman said the creation of the ordinance would improve the citys application for further federal grant dollars. It would not unexpectedly force excessive costs onto property owners.

What is Equiflow's role in the project?

Equiflow has so far visited nearly 2,000 homes and found 481 homes eligible for a service line replacement. As of July 19, 51 homes have had their lead service lines replaced this year and 133 are expected to be replaced in August.

A key performance indicator in the citys contract with Equiflow is the use of Wisconsin-based businesses and target class businesses to perform construction work. Target class businesses include small businesses that are either a minority-owned, woman-owned, veteran-owned or a business whose workforce is unionized. Equiflow is meeting both of these goals by contracting with Five Star.

Equiflow largely fills a communication, outreach and informational role in carrying out the lead service line replacement program. Lindman told a Daily Herald reporter the city does not have staff to perform all the tasks at the same level Equiflow does.

Equiflow identifies the neighborhoods most likely to have lead service lines, reaches out to the homeowners, schedules inspections, coordinates work with the city to reduce street closures and other disruptions and follows through to ensure the job is finished and the property is returned to its prior condition.

As Equiflow scales up over the next several years, service line replacement jobs will be used to train apprentice union workers and contribute to building up a local skilled workforce.

The Wausau City Council will consider an ordinance mandating the replacement of an estimated 8,000 lead service lines that exist in the city during a Committee of the Whole meeting at 6:45 p.m. Aug. 19 in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Where can property owners find more information?

Visit leadfreewausau.com for information on Equiflow and how to get lead service lines removed in Wausau.

Wausau property owners may perform a "self-verification" to determine whether their property has a lead service line by submitting a photo of their water meter and service line through leadfreewausau.com/self-verification.

Readers share their favorites: What are the best food trucks in the Wausau area?

More local news: When does school start for students in the Wausau area for the 2024-25 academic year?

Erik Pfantz covers local government and education in central Wisconsin for USA TODAY NETWORK - Wisconsin and values his background as a rural Wisconsinite. Contact him at epfantz@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Wausau Daily Herald: Lead service line removal in Wausau under discussion by city council
The popularity of drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro could grow exponentially in the next few years, both for weight loss and a growing list of potential uses that are being studied.

GLP-1 agonists, a class of medication typically used to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity, have been available since 2005, but only in the past few years have they transformed weight loss treatment, as well as making billions for the companies that produce the drugs. Health policy research group KFF polling from earlier this year found that 1 in 8 adults have previously taken a GLP-1 agonist and 6 percent of adults are currently on a regimen.

Medicines like semaglutide, tirzepatide and dulaglutide, commercially marketed as Ozempic, Mounjaro and Trulicity respectively, all fall within this class of drugs.

They work by mimicking a hormone produced by the body  glucagon-like peptide-1  that stimulates insulin secretion and reduces appetite. These drugs are currently prescribed for treating diabetes and obesity, but early research is pointing to possible benefits for a myriad of other conditions.

These include clinical trials looking into the medications potential use in treating conditions like Alzheimers disease and liver disease.

According to Marijane Hynes, founder of the Weight Loss Clinic at the George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates, the mechanism through which GLP-1s may be able to treat conditions outside of obesity and diabetes is not yet well understood.

We dont know exactly how all these things work so well, but it must hit an addiction center in the brain, Hynes said of some of the observed side effects, noting how her patients report a cessation of food noise, constant recurring thoughts about food, when they start on GLP-1 medications.

Here are some conditions that drugs like Ozempic may be prescribed for in the future:

Addiction

A rodent study published last year found that semaglutide use was linked to reduced binge-like alcohol drinking in mice. Researchers theorized this was due to the drug targeting parts of the brain associated with binge eating that also overlap with the urge to ingest substances like alcohol.

Anecdotally, Hynes has observed a similar phenomenon among plenty of patients.

I see people that drink, you know, a bottle a day stop drinking with this stuff, she said.

Brianna Johnson-Rabbett, an endocrinologist and obesity medicine physician at Nebraska Medicine, echoed these observations, noting her patients dont really have any desire to drink alcohol and that  certainly has a quite positive benefit.

An analysis published in the Annals of Internal Medicine last month found an association between semaglutide and a lower rate of smoking cessation prescriptions and counseling.

Neurodegenerative diseases

Novo Nordisk is currently conducting a Phase 3 multinational study to see whether semaglutide has a positive effect on early Alzheimers disease. The trial is currently set to end in 2026.

Some small studies have indicated a positive effect between GLP-1s and cognitive decline. The findings of a U.K.-based study were recently presented at the Alzheimers Association International Conference.

The study, which looked at the use of another GLP-1 agonist called liraglutide, involved 204 patients with Alzheimers disease. Researchers observed an 18 percent slower cognitive decline over a year compared to trial participants taking placebos.

According to Paul Edison, trial lead and professor of science at Imperial College London, While further research is needed, liraglutide may work through various mechanisms, such as reducing inflammation in the brain, lowering insulin resistance and the toxic effects of Alzheimers biomarkers amyloid-beta and tau, and improving how the brains nerve cells communicate.

This study has yet to be peer reviewed.

The results of a yearlong, Phase 2 trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine this year found that another GLP-1 agonist called lixisenatide, manufactured by Sanofi, was linked to less progression of motor disability among people with Parkinsons disease.

Heart disease

Earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration approved Wegovy, a form of semaglutide originally indicated for treating obesity, for reducing the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke in patients with cardiovascular disease and obesity.

This marked the first time a weight loss drug was specifically approved for treating heart disease. Subsequent findings have further supported these drugs use in supporting cardiovascular health.

Eli Lilly published findings last week from a Phase 3 trial that found that tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, reduced the risk of heart failure outcomes by 38 percent when compared to a placebo.

According to Johnson-Rabbett, the benefits observed in these studies are likely a combined result of the weight loss caused by GLP-1 agonist intake as well as a separate mechanism that hasnt been fully ascertained.

We do have evidence that there are GLP-1 receptors present in the heart and in the blood vessels. That could potentially explain some of the evidence, for example, in risk of major cardiovascular events, Johnson-Rabbett said.

We have evidence of effects on inflammation which, you know, again potentially due in part to effects on weight, but [there is] some evidence of specific effects on inflammatory cells in the body. So, it is very exciting, she added.

Kidney disease

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine this year found that semaglutide use may help reduce the risk of kidney failure in those with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Also funded by Novo Nordisk, this study found kidney disease events were 24 percent lower in the semaglutide group than the placebo group.

This trial was halted earlier than expected, with the company saying the results were already meeting certain pre-specified criteria.

Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, is also conducting its own study looking into whether its GLP-1 product can help overweight or obese people who also have kidney disease.

Liver disease

Findings presented at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections earlier this year noted a 31 percent reduction of liver fat in people with HIV and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) after taking semaglutide.

HIV can often affect the liver, leading to a buildup of fat in the organ. This in turn can cause scar tissue and inflammation, potentially resulting in cirrhosis. MASLD, previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is characterized by an excess accumulation of fat in the liver not caused by alcohol consumption or hepatitis.

Semaglutide use resulted in 29 percent of participants in the study experiencing a complete resolution of MASLD.

Novo Nordisk is conducting another Phase 3 trial looking into whether semaglutide can help with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, the advanced form of MASLD.

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Wesley Bell, who is hoping to unseat Cori Bush for Missouri's First District congressional seat, tells reporters he believes Bush isn't properly representing the district (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).

St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell defeated U.S. Rep. Cori Bush in the Democratic primary for the 1st District Congressional seat on Tuesday, capping a showdown between the highest profile political figures to emerge from the Ferguson uprising 10 years ago.

The Associated Press called the at 10 p.m. with Bell holding 51% of the vote, Bush at 46% and former state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal at 3%.

I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust the people of this district have placed in me, Bell said. This victory belongs to every volunteer, every supporter, and every voter who believes in our vision for a better future.

Bell shocked the Missouri political establishment in 2018 by defeating a seven-term incumbent to become St. Louis County prosecutor. Yet his win Tuesday was considered a victory for the political establishment, who have long been disenchanted with Bush.

Bush lost her initial run for Congress in 2018, then rebounded two years later to defeat 10-term incumbent William Lacy Clay in the heavily Democratic district.

She easily won re-election in 2022, defeating state Sen. Steve Roberts by more than 30 percentage points in the Democratic primary. During her time in Congress, she has been a high-profile member of a group of progressive Democrats nicknamed The Squad.

But it was her comments following Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel that drew Bell into the race and laid the groundwork for his victory. She condemned the attack but called for an end to Israeli military occupation and apartheid.

That earned her opposition from groups like the United Democracy Project, the political arm of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, which dominated the airwaves in the district with millions of dollars worth of ads praising Bell and attacking Bush.

Bells election in 2018 as the first Black prosecutor in St. Louis Countys history was part of a wave of progressive wins in prosecutor races around the country seeking to address racial disparities in the criminal justice system.

Before that, Bell worked as a public defender and served as a member of the Ferguson City Council.

The 1st Congressional District includes all of the City of St. Louis and North St. Louis County, along with pieces of the central corridor such as Clayton and Webster Groves.
ST. LOUIS  Fox 2 spoke with St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell after defeating incumbent Cori Bush in the Democratic primary for Missouri Congressional District 1 on Tuesday.

According to unofficial election results, with 100% of precincts reporting between St. Louis City and St. Louis County, Bell was backed by 51.16% of votes (51.16%) for MO Cong. District 1, while Bush was backed by 45.62% of votes (45.62%)

During the conversation, Bell spoke about the hard work he and his team put in to secure Tuesdays win.

This was a team effort, Bell said. Elected officials will tell you, we can take losing, but its harder to see the people working and to come up short, so when you win, it feels good and it feels good for those folks because so much blood, sweat and tears went into this win.

Rapper Nelly arrested in Maryland Heights Wednesday morning

As the conversation went on, Bell spoke about what he can do to gain the trust of those who didnt vote for him and whats next as he prepares for the upcoming election in November.

I want to earn your support. If I didnt get it last time, we need to work together, Bell said. Im looking forward to working with all of our community, our elected officials, our stakeholders and partners to wake up this sleeping giant that we call Saint Louis.

Currently, Andrew Jones and Stan Hall are leading the Republican nomination for Missouri U.S. District 1, though AP has not yet called that ticket. The winner would advance for an election versus Bell as the Democratic candidate this fall. Bell is considered a heavy favorite for a seat that was last occupied by a Republican in 1949.

District 1 covers all of St. Louis City and several cities in north and central St. Louis County.

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This story was originally published by St. Louis Public Radio., a BND news partner.

St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell defeated Congresswoman Cori Bush in the Democratic primary on Tuesday, capping off an expensive and contentious campaign that ended the two-term lawmakers tenure in the U.S. House.

Bell captured 51% of the vote, compared to 45% for Bush and 2.6% for former state Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal. Since the St. Louis and St. Louis County-based 1st District is heavily Democratic, Bell will be heavily favored to win in November.

This district is ready for better and more accountable representation in Washington, D.C., Bell said at a victory celebration in St. Louis. Progressives should actually make progress. And thats what Ive done my entire career.

Bells victory is a win for pro-Israel groups who spent millions of dollars to boost his candidacy because of Bushs stance on the Israel-Hamas war. Its a loss for the St. Louis progressive movement thats gained power in recent years.

And its the second time a member of the Squad has lost reelection, after New York Congressman Jamaal Bowman lost to George Latimer in June.

I try to stay away from the labels because I think thats part of the problem that leads to the political gridlock in our government now, which results in nothing getting done, said Bell, when asked what it meant to defeat another member of the Squad. Im old enough to remember when Democrats and Republicans butted heads, reached that 11th hour compromise, and they went and had a beer together. I believe Im cut from that cloth.

The victory caps off a tumultuous 2024 election cycle for Bell.

Last year, Bell announced he was running for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate, joining a field that ultimately included Independence attorney Lucas Kunce and state Sen. Karla May. Despite having high name recognition in the St. Louis area, Bell struggled to match Kunces fundraising and also failed to consolidate support among Black elected officials who endorsed either Kunce or May.

But Bells political trajectory changed after Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel. Bush condemned Hamas but also called for an end to the U.S. governments support for Israels military occupation and apartheid.

She also said she wouldnt be silent over Israels ethnic cleansing campaign after the country launched a military offensive in Gaza.

Those comments provoked outrage both locally and nationally from Jewish groups. And Bell cited Bushs criticism of Israel as one of the reasons he chose to end his U.S. Senate campaign and instead run against Bush. But he also contended that Bush wasnt effective, and promised to be more collaborative in order to bring more money to the St. Louis region.

I believe in leading from the front and setting the example, Bell said. I dont want anybody thats working with me to think that theyre outworking me, because youre not going to do that.







Bush concedes in a fiery speech

Bush ended up winning the city of St. Louis by around 4,000 votes, but lost St. Louis County by nearly 11,000 votes.

We need to build the community back because what just happened helped to rip the community apart, Bush said. I dont want to feed into that because we have to be one St. Louis. I just hope he actually takes the time to learn about our Palestinian and our Arab and our Muslim community, that he actually speaks to you and that he sees the beauty in what we have created.

Bush said she had no regrets about speaking up for Palestinians and criticizing Israels military actions in Gaza.

While Bush managed to attract key endorsements from Democratic leaders such as House Minority Whip Katherine Clark and a number of local Black elected officials including St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones, Bell received the backing of St. Louis County municipal leaders like Ferguson Mayor Ella Jones. He also received support from prominent trade unions who are still upset with Bush for voting against a major federal infrastructure bill in 2021.

Bush counterattacked with ads questioning Bells Democratic credentials, pointing to how he helped try to get a Republican elected to the 1st Congressional District in 2006.

Bush also contended that her opposition was so weak, that they needed millions of dollars in order to defeat her.

Pulling me away from my position as congresswoman, all you did was take the strings off, Bush said.

Bell benefited from a substantial increase in fundraising. He also received a massive amount of help from pro-Israel groups like the United Democracy Fund, which is the political arm of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.

Those third-party groups spent millions of dollars on ads that primarily attacked Bushs voting and attendance record. They didnt mention her criticism of Israel, which was likely purposeful since the 1st Congressional District contains a plurality of African American voters who often dont cite the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a reason to support or oppose a candidate.

AIPAC said in a statement that a progressive pro-Israel Democrat has prevailed over a candidate who represents the extremist fringe that is hostile to the Jewish state.

Voters across America are rejecting anti-Israel voices in favor of candidates who understand the vital importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship, the statement said.

Bush ran an ad featuring Michael Brown Sr., who lambasted Bell for not charging former Ferguson Police officer Darren Wilson with shooting and killing his son Michael Brown Jr. Both Bush and Bell were considered major political success stories of the Ferguson protest movement. The ad sought to resonate with Black voters who Bush needed to retain to prevail.

They want to represent all the people of this district. I am asking that they do right by Mike Browns family, Bush said.

If Bell is elected in November, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page will choose his replacement as prosecutor.

One potential person who could succeed Bell is Beth Orwick, who currently serves as Pages chief of staff. Orwick also worked as an assistant U.S. attorney and as a longtime assistant circuit attorney. She also served as St. Louis County counselor before Page elevated her to chief of staff.

Send questions and comments about this story to feedback@stlpublicradio.org.
St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell defeated Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) in a divisive primary election Tuesday, upsetting the progressive squad member in one of the most expensive races in the country.

A St. Louis-area native, Bell made his start as a public defender after attending the University of Missouri School of Law and later joining the city council of Ferguson. His campaign site emphasized his community work during and after the 2015 Ferguson protests over the police killing of Michael Brown.

Wesley worked directly to calm tensions between residents and the police  sometimes physically standing between protestors and police, Bells site reads. On the Council, Wesley worked with the Department of Justice to reform Fergusons criminal justice system through police and court reform.

Those same 2015 protests gave the rise to Bush, who quickly became a prominent community activist before she ousted a longtime incumbent Democrat for Congress in 2018. That same year, Bell was elected county prosecutor in his own upset of an incumbent.

Bells tenure as county prosecutor was viewed favorably in comparison to his controversial city counterpart, Kim Gardner, who resigned last year after allegations of incompetence.

His campaign ran on standard Democratic issues: criminal justice reform, protecting voting rights and abortion access, among others  not dissimilar from Bushs positions  though the race became defined by each candidates stance toward Israel.

Bush was harshly criticized for her outspoken criticism of Israels war in Gaza. The squad member called the ongoing war Israels ethnic cleansing campaign, and earlier this year introduced the Ceasefire Now Resolution. Some of her rhetoric has been met with backlash from other congressional members, but also constituents in her own district.

I think [her] comments show a lack of understanding of the nuance and complexities of an issue thats literally hundreds of years in the making, Bell said when he announced his campaign.

The pro-Israel group American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) spent more than $8.5 million opposing Bush and backing Bell in the primary. Its the second the time group successfully ousted a squad member over their Israel stance, after Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) last month.

Bell has denied being recruited by AIPAC to run against Bush and said he has never directly communicated with the group.

A total $18 million was spent on the primary race, the second most of any Democratic primary ever, only following Bowmans.

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COMPANY NEWS: Ricoh and its affiliates have been awarded the esteemed 'Gold Provider' Partner status in the Asia-Pacific region by Cisco, a worldwide leader in networking and security, marking a new chapter in the long-standing partnership between the two companies.

This accolade, which was awarded following a comprehensive evaluation, where Ricoh showcased its expertise in implementing managed services, Cisco SD-WAN, and Cisco Meraki solutions, underscores the company's dedication to innovation and exceptional customer support. It acknowledges Ricoh's excellence in delivering top-tier Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) and Meraki solutions and solidifies Ricoh's standing as a trusted partner for businesses aiming to optimise their network infrastructure and advance digital transformation initiatives.

"We are honoured to be recognised as a Cisco Gold Provider," said Kei Uesugi, Managing Director of Ricoh Asia-Pacific. "This achievement reflects our team's commitment and proficiency in delivering state-of-the-art managed SD-WAN services and Cisco Meraki solutions. We are excited to deepen our collaboration with Cisco and continue supporting SMB customers across the Asia-Pacific region."

To achieve Gold Provider Partner status and support SMBs and other customers across the region, Ricoh APAC established the Ricoh Regional Network Operations Center (NOC) in 2022. Located in Malaysia, the NOC serves as a shared service hub, enabling Ricoh offices throughout Asia-Pacific to offer high-value managed services at a reduced cost, complemented by on-site technical support available in eleven countries across the region.

As a Cisco Gold Provider Partner, Ricoh gains access to a wealth of resources, including advanced training, technical support, and marketing opportunities. This partnership will further enhance Ricoh's Managed Services capabilities, providing customers with even more robust and reliable networking solutions.

"We are delighted to collaborate with Ricoh as a valued Gold Provider Partner," said Michiko Kamata, Managing Director of APJC Distributor and SMB Sales. "Ricoh's commitment to excellence, deep understanding of Cisco technology, and focus on the SMB market make them an ideal partner. Together, we will empower businesses across the Asia-Pacific region to embrace digital transformation and achieve their strategic goals."

Ricoh's Gold Provider Partner status reinforces its position as a leading provider of Managed Services. With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and technological innovation, Ricoh continues to drive digital transformation for SMBs and businesses of all sizes in the Asia-Pacific region.

About Ricoh

Ricoh is a leading provider of integrated digital services and print and imaging solutions designed to support the digital transformation of workplaces, workspaces and optimise business performance.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh's global operation reaches customers in approximately 200 countries and regions, supported by cultivated knowledge, technologies, and organisational capabilities nurtured over its 85-year history. In the financial year ended March 2024, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 2,348 billion yen (approx. 15.5 billion USD).

It is Ricoh's mission and vision to empower individuals to find 'Fulfillment through Work' by understanding and transforming how people work so we can unleash their potential and creativity to realise a sustainable future.
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa  Police in West Des Moines are asking for the publics help to locate a missing teenager.

Theyre looking for 15-year-old Baylee Marie Blaskovich. Police said they believe she is in the Des Moines metro area.

Baylee is about 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighs about 112 lbs., and has blue eyes and brown/blonde hair. She was last seen wearing a blue shirt and dark colored shorts and had a large backpack.

Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to contact Westcom at (515)222-3321 or your local law enforcement agency.

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West Virginians can soon fly to another hub airport from CRW

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WBOY)  West Virginians will soon have the option to fly to another major hub airport from the West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW).

Starting on Nov. 14, Breeze Airways will offer twice-weekly flights from CRW to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) on Thursdays and Sundays, the company announced in a press release.

Airport Director & CEO Dominique Ranieri said in the release the New York City area is among the top destinations West Virginians have been requesting.

This new route not only enhances access and flexibility for visitors to the New York City area but also offers expanded options for connecting to other destinations, Ranieri said, in part, in the release.

Highest-rated free things to do in West Virginia, according to Tripadvisor

More than 30 airlines fly out of Newark; it is also a hub for United Airlines.

West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice (R) said in a press release that this will be the first time in 11 years that CRW has had a direct New York flight.

The new flights will start at $49 one-way, Justices release said.

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Crystal Pickering, a recent Master of Science graduate of Western Governors University, works at home as a technical program manager for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Herriman on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. WGU awarded 50,000 graduate and undergraduate degrees, two-thirds of them earned by students from underserved populations. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Crystal Pickering aged out of foster care at age 18 and faced multiple barriers to reaching typical teenage milestones such as graduating from high school, let alone attempting college or earning a degree.

In the middle of my senior year of high school, I was on my own. I got a full-time job at Taco Bell while taking public transportation to school, so I could pay my rent. I faced multiple challenges, she said.

Pickering got pregnant and married at age 20. Her then-husband was in the military, which took them to Louisiana and Alaska. They divorced and she returned to Washington state with two kids in tow.

She resumed attending church and decided to join a dating site for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she met her current husband.

As things got serious and my lease was up, I moved down here, she said.

For a while, she was a stay-at-home mom and ran a business.

I have always known that I wanted to do something bigger with my life than just repeat the cycles that I grew up watching over and over and over again and still see, she said.

With her husbands encouragement, she earned a bachelors degree from Utah Valley University in information technology management.

Next, the mother of five, with the support and backing of family, built on that accomplishment, recently earning a Master of Science degree in information technology management in March from Western Governors University.

Pickerings personal accomplishment dovetails a major milestone for WGU, the national online, nonprofit university. She was among 49,564 Western Governors University students who earned a record 50,168 bachelors or masters degrees during the 2024 academic year from the national online, nonprofit university established in 1997.

Two-thirds of the graduates were from one or more underserved populations  students of color, first generation, rural or low income.

While each of those graduates has had their own journey, Pickering said they share a common bond: Its 50,000 people whose lives will never be the same. They have given themselves the opportunity to to further their career aspirations and their goals and change the course of their familys lives, said Pickering, who earned her masters degree while working full time for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Tabernacle Choir, where she is its technical program manager.

In fact, I was finishing my capstone paper in the Philippines while they were on tour, she said.

While she had already earned a bachelors degree, earning her masters degree showed her children the value of education and how it can change the trajectory of an individuals life.

Thats one of the main reasons why I did it, was to show my kids its never too late, she said.

Crystal Pickering, a recent Master of Science graduate of Western Governors University and technical program manager for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, poses for a portrait with her diploma in Herriman on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

WGU President Scott Pulsipher said the university is reinvigorating the pathway to opportunity and having an impact at scale.

The universitys educational model, which is student-centric and personalized, works, he said.

We are positioning our graduates to start and advance careers in high-demand fields, meeting workforce needs and strengthening the vitality of their families and communities.

One of WGUs defining characteristics is that it offers degrees in four key areas: business, education, information technology and health professions, including nursing. There is high demand for skilled workers in each of those disciplines.

According to WGU, the university confers 5.2% of the bachelors degrees in education nationally, which leads United States colleges and universities.

It also awards 5.5% of all bachelors and masters degrees in nursing nationally and its cybersecurity program is now the largest in the country.

Crystal Pickering, a recent Master of Science graduate of Western Governors University, works at home as a technical program manager for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with her husband Todd Pickering, software engineer for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Herriman on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. WGU awarded 50,000 graduate and undergraduate degrees, two-thirds of them earned by students from underserved populations. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Joe Fuller, chairman of WGUs Board of Trustees, in a statement said that Western Governors University, since its inception, has worked to create an engine of economic mobility that accommodates everyone, especially those traditionally left behind by higher education.

Fuller, a distinguished management professor at Harvard Business School and co-director of the schools Managing the Future of Work project, added, It is now doing this at a scale no other institution matches, putting students from all backgrounds, circumstances and experiences on a trajectory for a better life. This is exactly the kind of momentum we need to energize our workforce and our communities.

WGU offers more than 80 certificate, bachelors and masters degree programs in business, education, health and technology fields in all 50 states.

We are helping our students live their best possible lives, on a personal and a professional level, Pulsipher said, and this has generational impacts that ripple into the future. We also are providing employers with the highly skilled, work-ready and diverse talent desperately needed to maintain Americas prosperity and its competitive edge.

Pickering said WGU gave her the flexibility to work full time and have meaningful time with her family.

Theres certain seasons of my life and certain times of the year where I have a lot more flexibility, and, you know, I can focus more. But during the holidays, I could pull back and not stress about finals and making sure Im going to four classes. I was able to ebb and flow with my schedule, she said.

WGU currently serves nearly 176,000 students, which includes the addition of more than 126,000 new students over the past fiscal year  up nearly 30% over the previous year.

With its current rate of growth, Pulsipher said its very likely that WGU will be the first institution with more than a million living alumni. WGU currently has more than 340,000 alumni.

Its doubtful that the founding governors of Western Governors University, among them former Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt, Colorado Gov. Roy Romer and Wyoming Gov. Jim Geringer, ever expected WGUS impact to be so big and meaningful, he said.

I think one of the most important things is, it should be telling everyone that the measure of quality in higher education should not be on the basis of how few you admit. It should probably be focused on how many lives have been able to be changed because of it, Pulsipher said.

Correction: An earlier version of this story misstated Pickerings age when she got married.
How, where to get your free SPAM musubi across the U.S.

HONOLULU (KHON2)  L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is celebrating the fourth annual National SPAM Musubi Day on Thursday, Aug. 8.

Elisia Flores, CEO of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, shared, Were delighted to host National SPAM Musubi Day for the fourth consecutive year by offering our guests the chance to enjoy SPAM Musubi for free through our mobile app.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

This day not only celebrates a delicious snack but also honors the history of SPAM in Hawaii.

L&L recognizes this special day coincides with the one-year anniversary of the Lahaina wildfires.

So, to support the community, L&L will match donations to the Maui Strong Fund up to $10,000 from Aug. 1-8. You can donate through the L&L website or mobile app.

And thats not all! L&L is partnering with Alaska Airlines for a special ticket giveaway.

You can enter a sweepstakes on the L&L website, social media, or mobile app for a chance to win a pair of round-trip tickets to Hawaii.

Plus, L&L is the nations top seller of SPAM musubi, selling over 6.2 million each year!

The origin of SPAM musubi

SPAM Musubi has a fascinating history. Japanese immigrants introduced musubi, a rice snack, to Hawaii in the 19th century.

During World War II, SPAM was brought to Hawaii to feed U.S. soldiers. Locals started eating it, too, especially because fresh meat was hard to come by.

The first SPAM Musubi was created on Kauai in 1983.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue brought Hawaiian-style cuisine, including SPAM Musubi, to the United States mainland in 1999. Since then, its become incredibly popular.

L&L now has 230 locations across the U.S. and Japan.

Join the celebration!

L&L is hosting special events in Tumwater, WA; San Antonio, TX; and Honolulu with appearances by Hormel Foods mascots, MUSU and SPAMMY.

Alaska Airlines will also give away round-trip tickets to Hawaii at these events. In Honolulu, look forward to fun activities, a coupon giveaway, a photo booth and more!

To find a participating L&L restaurant near you or for more information, download the L&L mobile app or click here.

Celebrate National SPAM Musubi Day with free treats, exciting prizes and a taste of Hawaiian culture!

Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8

And guess what? Theyre giving away free SPAM Musubi! To grab your free musubi, download the L&L app from the Apple Store or Google Play, find the free SPAM Musubi coupon, add it to your cart and visit any participating L&L restaurant on Aug. 8.

Its that simple! But hurry, this offer is only available while supplies last.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Where are Harris-Walz headed to next? Vance will be there too.

Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz are hitting the campaign trail with a bang.

After Harris announced her choice for a running mate yesterday morning, they made their debut together in Philadelphia to a packed rally. They are scheduled for a seven-state tour over five days.

Where are Harris-Walz headed next?

Today they are headed to the swing states of Wisconsin and Michigan for a full day of campaigning.

Five of the seven states that Harris-Walz have scheduled this week are battleground states that she and President Joe Biden had flipped blue in the 2020 election; Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia and Arizona. The other two are North Carolina and Nevada.

Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance campaigns on Aug. 6, 2024, in Philadelphia.

Where are Trump-Vance headed next?

Former President Donald Trump's running mate, JD Vance is running in a very similar circle of campaign stops this week. He campaigned in Philadelphia yesterday while the Harris-Walz rally was going and is also headed to Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Detroit today and Raleigh, North Carolina on Thursday.

Trump is not expected to appear with Vance and only appears to have one campaign rally scheduled for Friday afternoon in Bozeman, Montana.

Trump has said he will rally in Butler, Pennsylvania soon  where a man was killed and others injured in an assassination attempt  but has not announced when.

This article originally appeared on USATNetwork: Where are Harris-Walz headed to next? Vance will be there too.
As the new academic year gets underway, several public school districts around Middle Tennessee have said they won't allow teachers or staff to carry concealed handguns on campus, despite a recently enacted state law that would permit it.

However, a few districts have not responded to repeated questions about their stance.

The controversial law includes several requirements for K-12 teachers and staff who wish to carry, including a sign-off from their district director, principal and the head of their local law enforcement agency. They must also undergo training, background checks and a psychological evaluation. The law does not require districts or schools to disclose who is carrying.

The Tennessean reached out to districts around Middle Tennessee asking if they plan to allow teachers or staff to carry guns under the new law. Here's what they had to say.

'No easy answers': Does arming teachers make Tennessee schools safer? Experts aren't so sure

Cheatham County School District

Cheatham County School District Director Cathy Beck sent a letter to families in May saying the district would not be adopting a carry policy under the new law. She said the decision came after discussing the matter with Cheatham County Sheriff Tim Binkley.

Rep. Ryan Williams, R-Cookeville, presents a bill that would allow K-12 public school teachers and staff to carry guns in schools on the Tennessee House floor on April 23.

"We have both concluded that teachers and staff carrying handguns would not enhance safety on our campuses," Beck wrote. "Therefore, I do not believe it is in our best interest to arm teachers and staff."

Beck joined other districts in praising the relationship between local law enforcement and the school district, calling their existing safety program "robust." The sheriff's office provides 16 school resource officers across 13 schools for the district.

Clarksville-Montgomery County School System

Clarksville-Montgomery County School System Director Jean Luda-Vedder said the district will not allow teachers or staff to carry on campus. She talked the matter over with Montgomery County Sheriff John Fuson and decided against it.

She said that CMCSS is in a "much better position" than other small or rural districts across the state, who may have limited access to law enforcement support or school resource officers. The district has 55 armed school resource officers, along with hundreds of law enforcement officers and deputies patrolling the county. Luda-Vedder cited that strong partnership as a reason to decline allowing teachers and staff to carry.

"We will continue to focus our efforts on expanding the SRO program, continuously refining existing school safety and security protocols, and implementing innovative strategies to keep our schools safe," she said in a letter sent out to staff and families in May.

Dickson County School District

As of Tuesday, Dickson County School District Director Christy Southerland had not responded to repeated requests for comment on whether the district will allow teachers or staff to carry guns.

Franklin Special School District

Franklin Special School District Director David Snowden emailed families and staff in April to address the legislation.

"The school board and I do not see any scenario where this initiative would enhance our already robust safety and security measures," part of his email read. "Additionally, we believe the risks associated with this legislation outweigh any perceived benefit for our schools."

Snowden also said the district has a strong partnership with the Williamson County Sheriff's Office and the Franklin Police Department, which oversee the district's school resource officers.

Allison Polidor, stands with other protesters and weeps after the House voted to adopt SB 1325 during session at the Tennessee Capitol in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Lebanon Special School District

Lebanon Special School District Director Brian Hutto said in April that the district has school resource officers in every school, along with a "healthy partnership" with local law enforcement.

"We also have an additional SRO and K9-Blaze, a dedicated DARE officer, and multiple layers of security measures," Hutto said. "We will not be arming teachers as our needs are already covered in our buildings."

Maury County Public Schools

In April, Maury County Public Schools spokesperson Jack Cobb said district officials were waiting until Lee signed the bill into law to decide on how to proceed. The governor signed the bill into law a few days after it passed in April. As of Tuesday, repeated follow-ups inquiring about the district's decision had gone unanswered.

Metro Nashville Public Schools

Metro Nashville Public Schools spokesperson Sean Braisted said the district is not planning to change its existing policy on who can carry guns.

"We have a strong relationship with the Metro Nashville Police Department and agree that it is safest for only approved active-duty law enforcement officers to carry weapons on campus," Braisted said in an email. "This has been our consistent practice at MNPS, and we have no intention of changing it."

From Nashville: MNPS will not allow teachers to carry guns after bill passes

Murfreesboro City Schools

Murfreesboro City Schools Director Trey Duke sent an email to staff and parents this spring ensuring them safety is "always in the front of our minds."

"Our district is proud to have a team of highly skilled school resource officers in every school, a testament to our strong partnership with the Murfreesboro Police Department," Duke wrote. "We want to reaffirm that it is not the intention of MCS leadership to permit faculty or staff to carry concealed handguns on school grounds. Our focus remains on providing a safe and secure environment for all students and staff through our efforts with the MPD and school safety team."

Robertson County Schools

A letter from Robertson County Schools Director Danny Weeks sent this spring to staff and families explained the district's relationship with the Robertson County Sheriff's Office, the Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Department of Homeland Security. Each campus within the district also has a school resource officer, Weeks said, and has regular drills and reviews of its emergency and safety plans.

"With these things in mind, I simply do not believe it is in any of our best interests in Robertson County to arm educators at this time," Weeks wrote. "Our administrators, teachers and staff have many responsibilities as we daily seek to provide the best education we can to our students. Our administration has extremely high expectations for all staff in providing that education. A director of schools, I do not see blurring the line between education and law enforcement."

Covenant School parents lead the charge: More than 5,000 sign letter urging rejection of Tennessee's bill to arm teachers

Rutherford County Schools

Rutherford County Schools spokesperson James Evans shared a statement shortly after the law was passed, citing its requirement to create a formal agreement between the district and local law enforcement.

"At this time, we do not see the need for this initiative in our schools," Evans wrote in an email. "Rutherford County Schools already has an extensive school resource officer program, which includes at least one trained, armed deputy in all schools. We also have a robust safety program, which includes training for all employees and a number of other safety and security measures. While we dont disclose all the details of our safety program to the public  because such information is sensitive and could be misused  we have invested heavily in providing and maintaining safe learning environments."

Sumner County Schools

Sumner County Schools Director Scott Langford explained the district's stance in a Facebook post and video shortly following the passage of the measure.

"I have spoken with Sheriff (Sonny) Weatherford today and we agree: We will not arm teachers in Sumner County," Langford wrote in the post.

He cited the district's strong partnership with the Sumner County Sheriff's Office, which provides school resource officers for all its campuses. He also praised the district's school resource officer program, which he said is ranked first in the nation.

"Our teachers and principals carry tremendous responsibilities in teaching and supporting our students in the classroom," Langford wrote. "Our teachers and principals already play a critical role in school safety by ensuring that our safety procedures are followed in our school buildings daily. We do not want to add one more task or responsibility to them."

Williamson County Schools

In an email sent to district staff and families in April, Williamson County Schools Director Jason Golden said he talked the law over with Williamson County Sheriff Jeff Hughes.

"We have concluded that teachers and staff carrying handguns will not improve school safety on WCS campuses, so I will not authorize teachers or staff being armed at WCS schools," Golden wrote. "The sheriffs school resource officers who are assigned to every WCS school are trained professionals and are a vital part of our comprehensive school safety plans. We appreciate our ongoing partnership with the Williamson County Sheriffs Office."

Read more: Williamson County Schools will not allow teachers to carry guns, despite new Tennessee law

Wilson County Schools

During a May 6 school board meeting, Wilson County Schools Director Jeff Luttrell said he would not approve requests for arming teachers and staff at schools. A longtime educator and administrator, he said such an idea "would never have been dreamed of" early in his career.

"I settled this debate in my eyes a long time ago," he said.

While Luttrell said he's not against guns in general, he said it's not fair to put the responsibility of carrying a firearm on teachers and staff. The district has expanded its school resource officer program over the years, in partnership with local law enforcement.

"I feel very comfortable with our SRO program," Luttrell said. "I am adamant that we need to continue to support that."

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville, Murfreesboro, Middle Tennessee schools talk arming teachers
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, ended weeks of speculation after selecting Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday.

During his time as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and governor of the North Star State, Walz has pushed for access to abortion and other reproductive health care. He's also lowered drug prices and has proposed a public buy-in option for insurance.

Here's where Walz stands on various health care issues:

MORE: Tim Walz was the safe VP pick

Reproductive rights

Walz has been a supporter of abortion rights and was vocal about protecting access after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.

In January 2023, he signed the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act, which says everyone has a "fundamental right to make decisions about reproductive health" including abortion care, fertility treatments, contraception, sterilization and other care.

Prior to the PRO Act being signed, Minnesota already had strong abortion laws. The state does not prohibit abortion based on how far along someone is in their pregnancy and a 1995 state Supreme Court case held that the state Constitution protects the right to choose to have an abortion.

Walz, however, said the law is a "firewall against efforts to reverse reproductive freedom."

In April 2023, he also signed the Reproductive Freedom Defense Act, which protects patients who travel to Minnesota to seek abortion care -- as well as abortion providers -- from legal action in other states.

PHOTO: Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris speaks alongside her running mate Minnesota Gorvernor Tim Walz at Temple University's Liacouras Center, Aug. 6, 2024, in Philadelphia. (Matthew Hatcher/AFP via Getty Images)

Additionally, when Harris became the first vice president to visit an abortion clinic run by Planned Parenthood this year, she was joined by Walz.

The governor has also spoken about protecting access to fertility treatments and IVF. The issue is a personal one for Walz; his wife, Gwen, underwent IVF procedures for years before welcoming the first of their two children.

"When my wife and I decided to have children, we spent years going through infertility treatments," Walz said Tuesday during his first joint appearance with Harris at a rally in Philadelphia. "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 hadn't worked."

Access to health insurance

During his inaugural speech in 2019, Walz called health care "a basic human right."

"What Minnesotans want from their health care is simple," he said. "They don't 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."

MORE: Critics blast new VP nominee Tim Walz for 'massive' COVID-19 fraud 'under his watch'

During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served from 2007 to 2019, Walz voted for the Affordable Care Act in 2010, the landmark health care bill that was signed into law by then-President Barack Obama.

Walz and the Democratic leadership in Minnesota have attempted to expand MinnesotaCare, the state's public health insurance program, to allow all residents -- regardless of income -- the option to buy in.

There are two bills currently under consideration in the Minnesota Legislature  HF 4745 and SF 4778 -- but the governor's office told local media the bills would not likely pass this year.

The governor has worked to expand access to health care with a record 146,445 residents signing up for private health plans for 2024 during the open enrollment period for MNsure, the state's official health insurance marketplace, the governor's office said.

Capping drug prices

In 2020, Walz signed the Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act, allowing those in urgent need of insulin to go to their pharmacy once in a 12-month period and receive a one-time, 30-day supply of insulin for a $35 co-pay.

PHOTO: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz arrives to speak at a press conference regarding new gun legislation at City Hall on Aug. 1, 2024 in Bloomington, Minn. (Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

The long-term component of the law allows eligible individuals to receive insulin for up to one year, with an option to renew, and receive a 90-day supply with a co-pay cap of $50.

The governor also announced earlier this year that the state's Department of Health was publishing a list of more than 300 drugs whose prices will be required to be reported by manufacturers, wholesale retailers and pharmacies.

These policies are similar to those implemented under the Biden-Harris administration. The cost of insulin has been capped at $35 per month for many Americans, and the federal government has begun direct price negotiations on 10 widely used drugs paid for by Medicare Part D, with plans to add more drugs to the list in the future.

Where vice presidential pick Tim Walz stands on health care issues originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Egyptian airlines have been told to avoid flying over Iranian airspace in the small hours of Thursday morning - Europa Press News

Iran will retaliate at the right time over the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, the countrys acting foreign minister has said.

Ali Bagheri Khan said Tehran would strike in the appropriate shape amid reports that the regime is still weighing how hard it will respond to the assassination.

It comes as Egypt told its airlines to avoid flying over Iran for a three-hour period on Thursday morning amid fears of an attack on Israel.

Israel has been braced for an Iranian attack for more than a week since the assassination on July 31.

According to US media reports, White House officials believe they may have had some success in restraining Irans desire to punish Israel.

Iranian sources briefed immediately after the assassination that a large-scale direct attack could target Tel Aviv and military bases nearby.

But Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, has since mounted a diplomatic effort urging against any escalatory moves.

The killing of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has prompted fears of a revenge attack on Israel by Iran or Hezbollah - IRAN'S PRESIDENCY/VIA REUTERS

On Wednesday, Israels defence minister Yoav Gallant warned that the IDF would strike Lebanon hard if Hezbollah, an Iranian proxy group based in Lebanon, took part in a major joint strike with Tehran.

Egypts Notam (notice to air missions), a safety notice provided to pilots on Wednesday, said no planes should travel over Iran between 2am and 5am BST.

The notice could be an indication that Iran will launch its long-expected strike on Israel within that period.

Such a Notam from Egypt is very unusual. It is possible that this is an indicator of an Iranian response to Israel, and in turn a potentially large set of air space disruptions. At the same time, there may be another reason, said Opsgroup, a membership-based organisation that shares flight risk information.

An earlier Notam issued by Iran warned of gun-firing around the city of Arak at roughly the same time. Analysts said this could be tied to air defence practice, rather than necessarily an assault.

The Egyptian Notam came amid reports that White House officials believe they may have had some success in restraining Irans desire for revenge over the killing of Haniyeh.

A major attack on Israel, potentially involving rockets, missiles, or drones, had been expected as early as Sunday or Monday.

However, as of Wednesday, neither Iran nor Hezbollah, the militia group it backs in Lebanon, had launched any significant military response.

Sources have told Saudi news outlet Al Arabiya that the latest intelligence suggests that any attack may now be delayed until at least Thursday night or Friday.

US officials have also told CNN that Iran is still believed to be deliberating the scope of its response and that fears are now higher about Hezbollah  rather than Iran  taking the lead role.

Iran is expected to wait until after Wednesdays meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) in Jeddah before making a final decision, according to Al Arabiya.

Iran had requested the meeting in the aftermath of Haniyehs killing, which it blamed on Israel, to gain support from other governments.

The OIC said the meeting would be held in response to the ongoing atrocities committed by the Israeli occupation against the Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza Strip.

In addition to the assassination of Haniyeh, Fuad Shukr, Hezbollahs top military commander, was killed by an Israeli air strike in Beirut last week.

On Tuesday, Hassan Nasrallah, the Hezbollah chief, issued fresh threats to Israel, warning the country to prepare for any scenario.

The decision has been made, and we have the ability, but it wont happen fast but slowly, he said.

Mr Gallant replied that Nasrallah may drag Lebanon into paying extremely heavy prices. They cant even imagine what might happen. This may also deteriorate into a war. Its not theoretical.

According to the Washington Post, Tehran has accepted that Haniyeh was not killed by an Israeli missile but by a bomb smuggled into his apartment.

That could lead the regime to step down the nature of its response, US officials told the paper.

Washingtons decision to move troops, jets and warships closer to Israel may also be deterring Iran from pushing the region into an all-out war, the officials added.

Iran understands clearly that the United States is unwavering in its defence of our interests, our partners and our people, one senior Biden administration official said.

The regime may even leave the bulk of any offensive to Hezbollah, CNN reported, rather than launching a direct attack.

In April, Iran fired 360 missiles and drones at Israel in a telegraphed assault calculated to avoid major civilian casualties.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, said on Wednesday that he is fully aware that his countrys citizens are on alert.

I ask you one thing  to keep your patience and coolness, he said. We are prepared for both defence and offence, we are striking our enemies and are also determined to defend ourselves.

Privately, the White House was enraged when Israel immediately admitted to the US that it was behind the attack which killed Haniyeh, according to reports on Wednesday.

Biden administration officials viewed the assassination as a major setback in their careful, months-long negotiations to end the war in Gaza, The Washington Post reported, citing sources briefed on the matter.

US officials were also said to be angered that Israel failed to inform them before launching other operations to assassinate other senior commanders.

In public, Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, repeated his call for everyone in the region to take stock of the situation, understand the risk of miscalculation, and make decisions that will calm tensions, not exacerbate them.

After Hassan Nasrallah, the Hezbollah chief, delivered fresh threats to the Jewish state to prepare for any scenario on Tuesday, Yaov Gallant, Israels defence minister, issued a defiant response.

Mr Gallant warned that Nasrallah may drag Lebanon into paying extremely heavy prices. He added: They cant even imagine what might happen. This may also deteriorate into a war. Its not theoretical.

Mr Gallant also said he held an important call with his German counterpart over the threats posed by Iran and its proxies, thanking Boris Pistorius for standing with Israel.

The free world must come together against the biggest destabiliser and exporter of terrorism  Iran, Mr Gallant added.

Israel Katz, the foreign minister, has accused Iran of working to smuggle weapons into Jordan to destabilise the Jordanian regime and then flood the refugee camps in the West Bank with weapons and funding to establish another terror front against Israels major population centres.

Evacuation of British citizens

The UK, meanwhile, has prepared for evacuation of British citizens from Lebanon, with more than 1,000 troops on standby.

As airlines continued to cancel flights to Lebanon and Israel, British ministers called for all British nationals in Lebanon to leave.

Tensions are high, and the situation could deteriorate rapidly, said David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary.

While we are working round the clock to strengthen our consular presence in Lebanon, my message to British nationals there is clear  leave now.

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.
The White House said Wednesday it is as as close as it has ever been to reaching a cease-fire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas.

There is a good proposal before both sides, and they need to both accept that proposal so we can get this in place, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters. We are as close as we think we have ever been.

Kirby added that gaps have narrowed in the negotiations and the U.S. believes a deal can be reached, though he did not offer a timeline. The gaps are related to implementation details that need to be hashed out, he said.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken also said Tuesday at a press conference that the negotiations have now reached a final stage.

All parties agreed on the urgency of bringing this process to closure, Blinken said. Concluding that agreement and avoiding any action that could somehow disrupt it is the only path to ending the conflict in Gaza and bringing calm to the region. Its critical that all parties work to finalize an agreement as soon as possible.

Hamas still holds some 115 hostages that Israel wants free in return for an exchange of Palestinian prisoners and a temporary cease-fire in Gaza where more than 39,000 people have died since the war began on Oct. 7, per local health officials.

The deal, which was offered by President Biden and has been approved by the United Nations, calls for an initial phase of releasing the most vulnerable hostages and prisoners along with a temporary cease-fire, while negotiations would continue for a lasting cease-fire and the release of more hostages.

Negotiations have been inching closer in the past few weeks, and Biden met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last month when he visited Washington to close the final gaps.

But negotiations have been endangered by a flare-up in hostilities in the Middle East. Israel last week assassinated a leading Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Iran also blamed Israeli forces for the death of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh last Wednesday.

Iran, which backs Hamas and Hezbollah, has vowed revenge, as has its network of regional proxies.

Kirby said Wednesday that the U.S. was working really hard with intense diplomacy to try to avoid an escalation in the Middle East and get the cease-fire and hostage release deal sealed.

Were engaged in some pretty intense performance together to prevent an escalation in the region, Kirby said. We dont want to see an attack, and were going to keep working through diplomatic channels to see what we can do to de-escalate the tensions there.

He added, that if theres an attack, the U.S. will defend Israel with a wide range of military capabilities.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Regional US carrier US Cellular has deployed the technology of Swedish telco equipment provider Ericsson to support its 5G network infrastructure upgrade in rural areas.

US Cellular tapped Ericssons Router 6000 portfolio including model 6671 to bolster its 5G transport infrastructure.

This collaboration is about more than just connectivity  its about empowering communities while boosting local economies and enabling modern digital services, says US Cellular vice president of technology, strategy, and architecture Narothum Saxena.

From supporting fixed wireless access solutions and enhancing mobility to improving access to essential services like online education and healthcare, together with Ericsson we are committed to transforming rural Americas digital landscape.

The collaboration also leverages Ericssons advanced cell-site router technology to provide the necessary transport infrastructure for efficient utilization of mid-band spectrum for radio access network (RAN) deployment that both companies embarked on in 2023.

Ericsson claims the routers are designed for rural deployments, stating they can provide secure backhaul, site deployment flexibility, optimised port speeds and density for traffic aggregation, and advanced synchronisation for RAN performance.

By using our advanced Router 6671 alongside New Radio Time Division Duplexing (NR TDD) technology, US Cellular is delivering unprecedented connectivity and broadband speeds in its markets, says Ericsson North America vice president and chief technology officer for customer unit regional customers Bill Chotiner.

US Cellular is one of the biggest regional cell carriers in the US. It serves four million mobiles across 21 US states in mostly rural areas.

Data Centre Dynamics reported that T-Mobile acquired around 30% of US Cellulars wireless spectrum for US$4.4 billion. US Cellular will retain 70% of its wireless spectrum towers.

However, six US Senators objected to this deal, arguing that this would discourage competition.
Why are some backers of free enterprise so afraid of the marketplace of ideas in elections?

Photo via iStock / Getty Images Plus

Free enterprise is essential for our capitalistic economy. It gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to start businesses, work hard, be successful and grow local economies.

Under this system all businesses, small and large, compete on a level playing field, and consumers have the freedom of choice.

Supporters of these free enterprise principles that welcome competition, and encourage choice, should support extending these practices beyond the business world and into our political system. These concepts fuel economic vitality and would reinvigorate our democracy.

Unfortunately, that is not the case in Arizona.

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All political candidates, regardless of party or no party, should be allowed to compete fairly for the support of the voters. All voters should have the freedom to select from all candidates who they deem best suited for the job. Opposition driven by fear of real competition should not stand in the way of these electoral freedoms.

Why, then, is a group touting the name Arizona Free Enterprise Club, which claims to espouse free enterprise in our economy, working to block these very principles from being applied to our electoral system?

The Arizona Free Enterprise Club has filed a lawsuit to stop the Make Elections Fair Act that would infuse our elections with the fundamentals of free enterprise: freedom to compete and freedom to choose. The citizen-led ballot initiative would abolish closed partisan primaries that deny these basic American freedoms to candidates and voters.

Independent voters face hurdles to cast a primary ballot. Unaffiliated candidates have no access to primary ballots and are required to gather up to six times the number of signatures compared to partisan counterparts just to be listed on the general election ballots.

In addition to freedom for office-seekers to compete and freedom for voters to choose from all candidates, voters have another reason to support open primaries.

All taxpayers are stuck bankrolling partisan primaries that exclude all independent candidates and dissuade most independent voters from casting a ballot. Clearly, this is taxpayer-funded discrimination based solely on party affiliation.

A fairer system would eliminate these barriers and create open primaries where all candidates for a public office compete under the same rules and appear on the same ballot, and all voters regardless of party affiliation have equal access to participate in the elections that their tax dollars support.

More than 559,000 Arizonans signed petitions to put the open primaries measure on the November ballot, far surpassing the required 383,923 signatures. The publics support for this initiative is clear.

But those aiming to preserve the current closed partisan primary system are working to keep electoral discrimination alive by denying the freedom to compete and choose.

And the Arizona Free Enterprise Club is not alone in that regard.

A panel of state legislators, responsible for distributing unbiased information to all registered voters before the election, is attempting to mislead and confuse voters about the open primaries ballot measure by approving an intentionally biased description.

Make Elections Fair Arizona is in a legal battle against both the Arizona Free Enterprise Club and the state legislature to protect and improve the electoral freedom Arizonans deserve. Instead of allowing voters to decide in November on implementing free enterprise principles in our election, opponents seek to prevail in the courts.

Those who support democracy, freedom to compete and freedom of choice are holding their breath.

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Why did this retired Fresno teacher volunteer for the Red Cross?

Why did this retired Fresno teacher volunteer for the Red Cross?

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Former Fresno Unified school teacher Dana Sakoda says after teaching in Fresno for 22 years she still had something inside of her saying, you need to help folks.

For two years, Sakoda volunteered with the American Red Cross as a Shelter Associate, which means I get to do a lot of the footwork, Sakoda said.

Man dies on Fresnos streets: He didnt deserve this

Setting up cots, feeding people, answering questions, and I do a lot of getting folks information and actually enter them in the shelter.

Through the Red Cross, Sakoda says shes traveled across the United States helping those affected by natural disasters. Her next trip will be to North Carolina to support sheltering efforts after Hurricane Debbie.

Sakoda just got back to Fresno from Texas where she supported sheltering and recovery efforts for communities affected by Hurricane Beryl and severe spring storms. Sakoda says she chose to specialize in helping in shelters as an associate.

They said, Hey how would you like to go teach little kids? Sakoda said. She says she winced at the idea. I did that for 22 years, uh no. I want to do something different.

According to Sakoda, her first shelter experience was during a wildfire in Mariposa County; the Red Cross was called to help people who had lost their homes.

I met so many nice folks, people who had completely lost their homes, Sakoda said.

Theyre so grateful that theres someone there to open up and to give them someplace to go, thats the part that I like.

Sakoda says every disaster is different, but every preparation is the same. She gets a call from the Red Cross, checks in with her husband, grabs one of her pre-packed bags, collects her mission card, and leaves.

She says her husband has always supported her, letting her focus on the last and most important part of preparing for her deployment: getting mentally ready to see the disaster.

I know Im going to see things that are not nice, Sakoda said. But you know what, thats fine with me. Im there to help folks.

But Sakoda says being ready to see the destruction and actually seeing it are two different things, as she recalls seeing the devastation in Hawaii and Lahaina in 2023.

Ive lived in Fresno my whole life, never experienced anything like that. You see what could happen to a whole city, and it gives you a deep sadness, Sakoda said.

The first time driving through there, the car was silent.

After the deployment is done Sakoda says she takes her time to decompress from the 12-hour days, 6 days a week helping people.

I probably do nothing for about two days, Sakoda said. I kind of decompress, I play a lot of video games, watch some TV, and then I wash all my clothes and get repacked for the next place I need to go.

Sakoda says it may not be easy, physically or mentally, but until her body wont let her, shell keep doing everything she can, because someone has to.

Somebodys got to do this and I want to be that person. I think Im a good choice for that.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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(WHTM)  Pennsylvania researchers may have answered the age-old question of does size matter  well at least for the reason on why giraffes have long necks.

A sex-for-necks theory has long suggested the neck size of the giraffe increased because of competition between the males for mates. However, the necks of females are proportionally bigger than the males, compared to their bodies, even though the males are generally bigger than the females, leading to suggest that the sex-for-necks hypothesis may not be entirely correct.

Rather than stretching out to eat leaves on the tallest branches, you often see giraffes  especially females  reaching deep into the trees, said Doug Cavener, Dorothy Foehr Huck and J. Lloyd Huck Distinguished Chair in Evolutionary Genetics and professor of biology at Penn State and lead author of the study. Giraffes are picky eaters  they eat the leaves of only a few tree species, and longer necks allow them to reach deeper into the trees to get the leaves no one else can. Once females reach four or five years of age, they are almost always pregnant and lactating, so we think the increased nutritional demands of females drove the evolution of giraffes long necks.

Researchers analyzed photographs of giraffes by focusing on body proportions, which found that females do have longer necks compared to their bodies versus male giraffes, while males have longer forelegs and wider necks.

Crikey! Witnesses spot alligator swimming in Lake Erie

Male giraffes do swing their necks into each other to assert their dominance, and typically the one with the larger necks would win.

The necks-for-sex hypothesis predicted that males would have longer necks than females, said Cavener. And technically they do have longer necks, but everything about males is longer; they are 30% to 40% bigger than females. In this study, we analyzed photos of hundreds of wild and captive Masai giraffes to investigate the relative body proportions of each species and how they might change as giraffes grow and mature.

The longer legs of the male may help with mating, which researchers said is a brief and challenging affair that is rarely observed, the release says.

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Penn State, the Penn State Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, and the Wild Nature Institute supported this research.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Why isn't attempted murder charged more often in Columbus? We looked at the data.

The adage goes that you should never point a firearm at anything you wouldn't be willing to kill.

A Dispatch review, however, found attempted murder charges were only filed in about 2% of all felonious assault cases  the majority of which involved guns.

Data from the Columbus Division of Police shows there had been 205 nonfatal shootings in Columbus this year through the first week of May, 96 of which resulted in an injury. Police had identified a suspect in 109 of those cases, according to the division's data.

Former Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O'Brien said charging someone with attempted murder doesn't necessarily give prosecutors an advantage.

But The Dispatch's review of the charges in those cases found only four suspects had been charged with attempted murder when the case came back from a grand jury.

So what does attempted murder really mean?

A closer look: 50 guns confiscated, 10 people shot, more than 100 gunshots detected all in 80 hours

Ohio law does not have a specific charge called attempted murder. Instead, a grand jury can indict a person under the state's murder law with the specification that the crime was attempted, not completed.

Attempted murder is considered a first-degree felony with a maximum possible sentence of 11 to 16 years in prison if convicted. Prosecutors are required to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the crime was being committed with the purpose to cause death.

An attempted aggravated murder charge is also allowed under Ohio law, but requires prosecutors to prove that the crime was done with the purpose to cause someone's death with premeditation.

Franklin County Prosecutor Gary Tyack's office declined comment when contacted for this story.

Former Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O'Brien said charging someone with attempted murder doesn't necessarily give prosecutors an advantage and only creates a harder case to prove.

"If I shoot you and it hits you wherever and it doesnt cause your death, you always have a good felonious assault to charge," O'Brien said.

Felonious assault is a second-degree felony in Ohio with a maximum possible sentence of eight to 11 years in prison. If the crime occurs with a firearm, an additional three years of mandatory prison time can be added to the sentence.

"If Im a defendant, I can say, 'I wasnt trying to kill you, I was just trying to wound you or stop you from attacking me, certainly not kill you,'" O'Brien said. "Attempted murder is only a couple more years of prison, but its an additional burden on yourself as the prosecutor."

Related coverage: Shooters getting younger: Record number of juveniles charged with gun-related murder

Records reviewed by The Dispatch show attempted murder has been included in indictments less than 100 times in the last five years.

Between 2019 and May 1, 2024, there were 2,489 people charged with felonious assault in Franklin County Municipal Court. Only 50 times  about 2% of all those charged  was attempted murder indicted by a grand jury.

In cases where someone has been charged with murder, 35 of the 434 cases, or 8.1%, include an attempted murder charge. And in aggravated murder cases, which is the most serious charge a person can face under Ohio law, four of the 24 people charged (16.7%) during that time period also faced an attempted murder charge after indictment.

When attempted murder is charged, the charge ends up being dismissed in nearly every case, according to The Dispatch's review.

O'Brien said proving that someone intended to cause death in their actions can be difficult, particularly for a jury to agree to a conviction beyond a reasonable doubt.

"If a defendant were to give a statement and when asked why were they shooting said, 'They disrespected me and were seeing my girlfriend and I wanted to kill the SOB,' that would get you over the hump," he said. "A lot of it just depends on the nature of what your evidence is."

Many of the cases where attempted murder was charged involved domestic violence. Those cases can present other unique hurdles for prosecutors, including potentially reluctant victims or considerations of shared children.

"If youre willing to try the case and you want the possibility of a higher penalty, you can do it," O'Brien said. "But it all depends on the strength of your evidence."

bbruner@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Attempted murder is rarely charged in Franklin County. What does Ohio law say?
Kamala Harriss vice presidential pick probably wont make a huge difference to the fate of the planet. That said, Tim Walz is better than many alternatives: He hasnt been actively boosting the oil and gas industry like his main competition, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Hes worked to pass some impressive climate and environmental measures and presided over an extraordinarily productive Democratic majority in Minnesota. He also seems like a pretty normal guy with a wholesome energy that contrasts starkly with his Republican counterparts weird subcultural obsessions.



The importance of Harris choosing Walz doesnt have much to do with his record. Vice presidents who arent Dick Cheney dont tend to heavily influence what the White House does, including on climate and energy matters. While climate advocates have widely praised Walzs selection, its not at all obvious that he would go out of his way to make those issues a defining feature of his vice presidency. The pick shows that Harris and her team dont actively hate the leftists whove been encouraging her to pick Walz over Shapiro.

The optimistic reading of all this is that progressives enthusiastic embrace of these normie politicians shows their pragmatic willingness to rally behind the best available people for the job. Those officials and their staffers have taken note of that tongue-in-cheek goodwill as a sign that people to their left might be worth accommodatingor at least not actively scorning. The cynical take is that the audience eating up memes about how Kamala Is Brat and Tim Walz Is Dad is exceedingly small; that the far more important factors in Harris choosing Walz have been behind-the-scenes wrangling by the likes of Nancy Pelosi and John Fetterman.

Its nice and mostly harmless to have some fun online and take a victory lap in the midst of an escalating planetary catastrophe. At the risk of being a buzzkill, though, the Shitposting Community shouldnt get so caught up in all the hype around Harris and Walz as to forget who they actually are or how little power we have. After initially voicing his opposition, for instance, Walz greenlit an expansion of Enbridges Line 3 oil pipeline, which was widely opposed by Indigenous tribes and environmentalists. His government has been criticized, as well, for allowing corporate polluters to have too cozy a relationship with Minnesotas environmental regulators. Those arent reasons to oppose Walzs place on the ticket! Hes probably the best person Harris could have picked, and a Trump presidency promises to grind any of the modest progress being made on climate at the federal level to a haltand then reverse it in new, disturbing ways.

But we dont have to look too far back into history to find an example of Extremely Online support for a folksy, little-known politician turning sour. Fetterman repeatedly courted progressives and ran a meme-driven campaign for his Senate seat, trolling his Republican opponent, Dr. Oz, as an out-of-touch, out-of-state ghoul. Then Fetterman turned out to be a bit of a ghoul himself, burning bridges with the progressives who helped elect him to become one of his partys most enthusiastic supporters of Israels brutal war on Palestinians. Hes proceeded to be increasingly vocal about his right-wing positions on everything from lab-grown meat to energy policy.

The upshot here is that elected officials make for bad heroes, however ironic the worship of them might be. Walz isnt Fetterman, of course. Yet his climate record is ultimately a pretty negligible factor in whether a prospective Harris administration makes meaningful progress toward reducing emissions; no accumulation of fancam edits will convince them to take on the fossil fuel industry. Maybe the best outcome here, climate-wise, is for the online fervor around Harris and Walz to be translated into real-world power that might force their administration to do better things instead of just making better content. If Harris picking Walz makes people more enthusiastic about that project, all the better.
Scrolling through the coverage of the Tim Walz VP announcement Tuesday morning, I received a message from a friend, a prominent Jewish American doctor who identifies as a moderate.

This makes me very sad, she wrote.

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The friend had already been teetering on the cliffs edge about Trump, believing him a better choice on antisemitism for her family, which includes a daughter studying on a hotbed college campus. Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, opting against Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro pushed her over that edge; to this friend, it was evidence the candidate had caved to anti-Jewish forces. And whos to say she wouldnt do that in office, too? I didnt say she was antisemitic, she clarified. I said that she could not stand up to those who are.

I fought back vigorously.

Like Shapiro, Walz has been outspoken on antisemitism and the horrors of Oct. 7, I said.

As a folksy Midwesterner, the Minnesota governor brings electoral advantages that Shapiro and his coastal polish didnt, I noted.

Not choosing a Jewish running mate is hardly disqualifying for office, I argued. If it was, every presidential candidate in history save one wouldnt make the grade.

Also, I reasonably pointed out, its not like Harris trashed Shapiro. Shell stand arm in arm with him at rallies, gratefully bask in his endorsement and maybe even give him a Cabinet position if she wins.

And then I stopped. There was never going to be a way to definitively know why Harris chose Walz over Shapiro. What is known is that the choice happened after a conscious progressive social-media campaign to brand Shapiro as Genocide Josh and paint him as some Netanyahu water-carrier when his positions on Israel were standard Democratic two-stateism (and sharply anti-Netanyahu). And that carries with it the stench of something else.

Across Hollywood and beyond, liberal Jewish Americans today feel a sense of unease. I dont claim to speak for anyone but myself. But my thoughts seem to be echoed among the solidly liberal Jewish American producers, agents and executives Ive talked to  namely, that even if the pick was the result of electoral calculations, those calculations come with baked-in antisemitic assumptions about the electorate.

Harris has drawn the support of a large number of Democrats in Hollywood who identify as Jewish, from Jeffrey Katzenberg to J.J. Abrams to Barbra Streisand. That wont change. But it comes with a tinge now. As one producer I spoke to said, Of course Ill stay on the train  Walz seems like a good dude. I just keep asking why it isnt a Shapiro train.

To be sure, there are Arab American voters in Michigan and elsewhere who have strong feelings about Israels war in Gaza and would vote on that basis. As they should. But as a factor in bypassing Shapiro, this is beside the point. As Florida Democrat Jared Moskowitz recently noted, 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.

Or as Dana Bash said on CNN on Monday, The attacks on Josh Shapiro for his stance on Israel and protests  he has the same stance as the non-Jewish contenders and theyre picking at him, and we should not let that go unsaid.

And so liberal American Jews who support the idea of a viable Jewish state regardless of its policies  its where half our brothers and sisters live, after all  find ourselves, once again, in an impossible position, a political equivalent of the closing in of the walls from The Temple of Doom. Fending off right-wing friends who see in the Walz pick an antisemitic conspiracy and proof of Democratic abandonment, we turn around and see spikes coming at us from the other direction, in the form of campaigns to target a proud Jewish official and the exuberance that they worked.

These people wouldnt have been this gleeful, I thought as I scrolled through some progressive reactions, about the near-miss of J.B. Pritzker or anyone else less proudly Jewish. But they were about Shapiro, a traditionally observant Jew who attended private Jewish day school and embraces his faith openly.

Such reactions draw many liberal Jews back to the weeks after Oct. 7 and the shattering question we asked then  is the ground being pulled out from under us? For the first time in a while, today evoked Debra Messings line from the pro-Israel rally on the Mall last November. I know you feel misunderstood and maligned, she said to the many Jews in attendance. I know, because I do too.

Those comments sparked a backlash at the time. But many liberal Jews in Hollywood, media and tech identified with her remarks.

To some non-Jews I talked to, todays news was just a case of a tribal rooting interest not going our way. Oh well, youll get the next one, went their vibe. But when a Jewish leader this popular from a state so necessary gets passed over, it becomes more than just a matter of losing a round of identity-politics poker  it touches an existential nerve.

Some Jews have also noted that in choosing Walz, Harris was simply trying to stay away from raising Gaza as an issue. But outside of antisemitic projection, why would it do that? The idea that a candidate would automatically want to talk more about Israel simply because hes Jewish raises ugly tropes of dual loyalty, or worse.

Wary of seeming killjoyish, some liberal Jewish Americans also sought to find a silver lining  at least now Jews wouldnt be blamed for administration failures, they said. They cited The Atlantics Yair Rosenberg, one of the most eloquent expositors of the double standards applied to Shapiro, who in a recent piece expressed some reservations about what a Shapiro vice presidency would bring.

Anti-Semitism conceives of Jews as clandestine puppeteers who control the worlds governments and economies, fueling political and social problems, he wrote. A Jewish vice president would provide the perfect canvas for these fevered fantasies  a largely ceremonial figure onto whom bigots could nonetheless project all of their conspiracies, casting him as the real power behind the Resolute Desk.

Rosenberg has forgotten more about the history of antisemitism than most of us will ever know. But this train of thought has always struck me as self-defeating. The response to fears of prejudice cant be, Lets hide the Jews to prevent us from finding out about it.

A Jewish vice president would have been important not only because it would have signaled the latest progress of one ethnic group in America as thrillingly as Harris candidacy does for Americans of Black and Indian heritage, but also because it would have drawn antisemites out from the crevices, shining Louis Brandeis disinfecting light brightly upon them.

(That Harris husband is Jewish, incidentally, should do little to quell the unease. Jewish affiliations are proof of nothing except the reminder of past justifications. It calls to mind those who several years ago said Taika Waititis Nazi comedy Jojo Rabbit couldnt be antisemitic because Waititi was Jewish. It wasnt antisemitic. But that wasnt the reason.)

Walz is a solid candidate with a strong record of speaking out against antisemitism. Just this spring he told Twin Cities PBS that, I think when Jewish students are telling us they feel unsafe in that, we need to believe them.

But Walzs pro-Jewish bona fides dont mean the decision to put him on the ticket  or the reaction to his appointment  cant also be shadowed with antisemitism. Both can be true.

And so here liberal Jews again find ourselves, hopelessly marooned between a belief that Democratic policies are fundamentally better for our interests and yet worried we are not welcome in our own home  feeling a gentle nudge that perhaps we might find ourselves more comfortable in another place but unsure, in the end, of where else to go.

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Why are riots happening in the UK? Everything you need to know as more planned today

Riots have spread across England and Northern Ireland in recent days following the killings of three young girls in Southport on 29 July.

Authorities are working to curb the serious civil disorder, with over 400 arrests made and dozens of police officers injured.

The scenes began with one far-right riot on July 30. This then led to dozens of similar events taking place across the UK over the weekend. More violence has been planned for Wednesday, with migrant centres all over the country thought to be the targets for violence.

More suspects are due in court following riots across the country (Owen Humphreys/PA) (PA Wire)

For the latest updates, follow The Independents live coverage

Prime minister Keir Starmer has held two emergency meetings as he deliberates a response to the disorder. Speaking on Tuesday, he said communities 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 that is in place, he said.

Politicians on the right such as Nigel Farage have accused the PM of not dealing with the escalating violence quickly enough, and of overseeing two-tier policing. This far-right talking point has also been parroted by Twitter / X owner Elon Musk, who publicly mocked and criticised Sir Keir on Tuesday.

As the far-right riots continue to take place across the UK, heres everything you need to know:

What started the riots?

The first riot took place in Southport on 30July. It was sparked by the deaths of Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine. They were attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the town the day before when they were killed in a multiple stabbing which left eight other children injured.

Axel Rudakubana, now 18, has been charged with their murders alongside 10 counts of attempted murder. His identity was initially not revealed by police due to him being 17 when he was arrested. This was because criminal law in the UK grants children appearing in court automatic anonymity.

People gather to mourn victims of the Southport knife attack by holding a vigil in town, August 5 (Getty)

Before Rudakubanas identity was revealed, false claims that he was a Muslim and asylum seeker proliferated online. Posts and videos sharing misinformation accrued millions of views, provoking anger amongst the far-right. Reports show that messaging platforms with anonymity features, such as Telegram, were then used to mobilise the large group.

One channel on the Russian-owned platform  named Southport Rise Up  had over 13,000 members at one point, as it continued to post locations for rioters to target even over the weekend. The channel has since been removed, with a spokesperson saying the platforms rules explicitly forbid calls to violence.

Mr Rudakubanas anonymity was lifted the day after the Southport riot, on 1 August. At Liverpool Crown Court, the presiding judge said this was because he would turn 18 in just six days, and adding: Continuing to prevent full reporting at this stage has the disadvantage of allowing others who are up to mischief to continue to spread misinformation.

Rioting in Southport, July 30 (Getty)

Despite this, far-right rioting still took place over the weekend, on August 3 and 4. Those involved could be seen shouting Islamophobic and anti-immigrant chants, fighting with police, looting, and attacking people of colour. One incident in Rotherham saw rioters set alight a hotel thought to be housing asylum seekers, and then barricading the exit. No injuries were reported.

Riots broke out dozens of towns and cities. Manchester, Liverpool, Hull, and Belfast all saw violent scenes as rioters fought police or clashed with counter-protesters.

And more are planned. Far-right organisers have attempted to mobilise people to riot in nearly 40 locations on Wednesday, making migrant centres the target.
Why Taylor Swifts Vienna Concerts Will Have More Security Than Other Eras Tour Dates

UPDATE: All three of Taylor Swifts scheduled shows in Vienna, Austria, were canceled on Wednesday, August 7, after authorities publicly revealed a suspected terror plot.

A statement posted on social media by Swifts team and Barracuda Music said they had no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyones safety. Those who purchased tickets were told they could expect a refund within 10 business days.

Original article:

Austrian authorities are warning Taylor Swift fans who are planning to attend her upcoming concerts in Vienna that it might take a bit longer for them to get inside the stadium due to newly heightened security measures.

The added precautions will be implemented in response to new information about a suspected terror plot, which authorities suggested might have targeted a major event such as one of Swifts Eras Tour shows if it had moved forward, according to The Associated Press.

On Wednesday, August 7, officials with Austrias interior ministry announced that two people suspected of plotting a terror attack were arrested. A 19-year-old Austrian citizen was arrested Wednesday morning in Ternitz, a town south of Vienna, and another person was arrested Wednesday afternoon in Austrias capital.

Related: Taylor Swift Makes Eras Tour Announcement She's So 'Excited' About

Franz Ruf, the ministrys director general for public safety, said during a Wednesday press conference that the 19-year-old was believed to have made a pledge to the Islamic State last month after becoming radicalized online. That same individual also had a focus on the pop stars Vienna tour dates, Ruf added.

Security measures will be increased at all major events happening in the city, including at the Cruel Summer songstress scheduled shows at Ernst Happel Stadium. These measures will include extra scrutiny for all who enter the stadium and an uptick in police surveillance in the area.

Due to the elevated security, authorities are warning concertgoers that it will likely take more time for them to get inside the stadium. All who have tickets to the shows are being urged to arrive early in anticipation of such delays.

Swift is scheduled to perform three consecutive nights in Vienna, with her first show in the city kicking off on Thursday, August 8. After Austria, the 14-time Grammy Award winners hit international Eras Tour will return to London for five nights at Wembley Stadium.

Next: Swifties Call Taylor Swift a 'Comedian' in Skit With Dancers From Eras Tour
Former President Trumps campaign and supporters are going after Vice President Harriss running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), dubbing him Tampon Tim in reference to a bill he signed last year requiring schools to provide free menstrual products in all public school bathrooms.

The Minnesota law, which went into effect Jan. 1, mandates menstrual products  including pads, tampons and other items  must be available to all menstruating students in restrooms regularly used by students in grades 4 to 12 according to a plan developed by the school district.

State Republican lawmakers pushed back on the legislation at the time, but ultimately failed to amend the bill to apply only for girls bathrooms.

Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt called out Walz for the law shortly after Harris announced he would join her on the Democratic presidential ticket.

As a woman, I think there is no greater threat to our health than leaders who support gender-transition surgeries for young minors, who support putting tampons in mens bathrooms in public schools, Leavitt said on Fox News. Those are radical policies that Tim Walz supports. He actually signed a bill to do that.

The primary super PAC supporting Trump called Walz a weird radical liberal, as part of a new campaign ad against the governor.

What could be weirder than signing a bill requiring schools to stock tampons in boys bathrooms? the Make America Great Again Inc. account wrote Tuesday on the social platform X. Or weirder than signing legislation allowing minors to receive sex change operations?

LBGTQ rights groups celebrated Harriss decision Tuesday, highlighting his support for equality.

Walz issued an executive order last year establishing the North Star State as a safe haven for transgender minors wishing to obtain gender-affirming health care and a refuge for individuals seeking an abortion, as well as their doctors and their families.

Conservative podcaster Liz Wheeler reposted an edited photo of Walzs face on a tampon box Tuesday, with the words Tampon Tim, writing on X, He put tampons in mens bathroom. What a creep.

Stephen Miller, a former adviser to the former president, also weighed in on the choice of Walz, writing Tuesday on X, She actually chose Tampon Tim.

The Hill reached out to the Harris-Walz campaign 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 Coffeepot Fire burns across Hills Creek Reservoir on Monday.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality advisory for Marion and Umatilla counties, as well as the Portland-Vancouver metro area, due to elevated levels of ozone pollution, or smog.

At the same time, the agency is warning that intermittent smoke from wildfires burning in Oregon, California and Washington will impact much of the state, including Marion, Polk and Lane counties, until at least Friday.

Both smoke and smog can impact health.

DEQ officials said they expect air quality to be unhealthy for sensitive groups or worse in much of the state through Friday.

Oregon ranks air quality as good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy or hazardous.

Sensitive groups include children, people over 65, pregnant people and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions. Health officials recommend those groups limit outdoor activities when pollution levels are high.

DEQ monitors were showing air quality unhealthy for sensitive groups or worse Wednesday afternoon in Roseburg, LaPine, Klamath Falls and Government Camp. In Oakridge, southeast of Eugene, air quality was hazardous.

Smog advisory in effect through Thursday

DEQ officials said they expect ozone pollution to reach levels that could be unhealthy for sensitive groups by Wednesday afternoon.

Officials expect elevated levels of ozone pollution, or smog, to last until 8 p.m. Wednesday in Umatilla County and until 8 p.m. Thursday in Marion County and the Portland-Vancouver metro area.

High temperatures and low winds can increase air pollution, by combining with pollution from cars, gas-powered engines and chemicals in paint and aerosols.

Ozone pollution increases throughout the day with exposure to sunlight, so pollution levels tend to be highest during afternoons and early evenings, DEQ officials said. Air quality monitors may show good air quality in the morning, then quickly jump to unhealthy levels later in the day.

Wildfire smoke advisory in effect through Friday

DEQ issued an air quality advisory Wednesday for Deschutes, Klamath and eastern Lane counties due to smoke from fires burning in Oregon.

The agencies expect the advisory to last until at least Friday afternoon.

DEQ expects intermittent smoke until at least Friday afternoon, due to fires in Oregon, California and Washington, in the following areas.

Baker County

Eastern Benton County

Clackamas County

Eastern Douglas County

Harney County

Hood River County

Jackson County

Jefferson County

Josephine County

Central Lane County

Linn County

Malheur County

Marion County

Multnomah County

Eastern Polk County

Umatilla County

Wallowa County

Wasco County

Eastern Washington County

Eastern Yamhill County

Smoke levels can change rapidly depending on weather.

Current conditions are available on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog, DEQs Air Quality Index, or by downloading the free OregonAIR app on a smartphone.

Tracy Loew covers the environment 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: Wildfire smoke, smog impacting Marion County air quality
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A West Linn paper mill is laying off over half of its workforce and is facing a possible shut down at the end of August if the company doesnt get a financial boost or a buyer, the company announced Tuesday.

Willamette Falls Paper Company President Brian Konen sent a letter on Aug. 6 to West Linn Mayor Rory Bialostosky and Oregons Office of Workforce Investments announcing the companys plans, per the Workers Adjustment Retraining Act.

Missing woman in Clark County presumed dead as detectives seek remains

In the letter, Konen warned the company is laying off 158 of its 223 employees, noting there is no union representation at the plant and there are no opportunities to transfer or reassign employees elsewhere.

According to the letter, the mass layoff will occur around Aug. 9 and the company may shut down the plant on Aug. 30 unless they receive a capital raise or a sale of assets.

In the meantime, Konen said the company is suspending work on all orders for an uncertain period of time.

The letter stated the company provided layoff notices to affected employees on Tuesday, noting this was as soon as practicable under the circumstances.

We believe our circumstances fall within one of the exceptions to the 60-day notice requirement of the WARN Act. Willamette Falls Paper Company, Inc. has hired an investment banker who is actively seeking capital or trying to arrange for the sale of substantially all of the companys assets and business operations. The Company reasonably in good faith believes that advance notice would have precluded its ability to obtain such capital, which would have allowed the Company to avoid or postpone a shutdown for a reasonable period, the letter said.

City agrees to buy Moda Center, land for $7.13 million, plans major renovation

Mayor Rory Bialostosky said the news is devastating for families and the city, noting the paper mill is one of the citys biggest employers, if not the biggest, and theyve been a part of the fabric of West Linn since the 1800s.

My initial reaction was just sadness and just feeling for all the workers impacted, especially on short notice, Bialostosky said. The short notice is just particularly devastating because it doesnt give folks time to plan for their future and make sure they can keep putting food on the table for the family.

Sr. Coaterman Derek Hanby is one of the dozens of workers given just a three-day heads up that theyd be laid off. He told KOIN 6 News hes hopeful his big family of coworkers will be back to making premium paper as soon as the company finds financial backing.

Im shocked. You know, I grew up here in this town, Hanby said. I will do everything in my power to keep those doors open, Id invest my own money. I dont care, I have enough faith in this place.

WATCH: Alaska Airlines plane makes wobbly emergency landing at Portland International Airport

Konen said the company is hopeful this is a temporary layoff and hope to find a buyer to continue the plants operations and hire back affected employees, but if the company is unable to meet this goal, the mass layoffs will be permanent, and the plant will shutter.

Its unclear what exactly is straining the company, which took over the historic mill in 2017, but workers say the mill is in desperate need of investors.

Im hopeful theyll be able to find a buyer or someone to invest in the company, because then maybe they can bring folks back, Mayor Bialostosky said.

According to the letter, the company will decide whether to shut down no later than Aug. 30, with additional layoffs expected throughout the month if the company is unable to get a buyer or raise more money.

A majority of the affected positions are production and operations jobs, which will see 102 layoffs, followed by 25 millwrights, 14 administrative positions, and several electricians and truck drivers.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Wilmington airport to welcome new airline that will bring four new nonstop flights

Breeze Airways will be adding four new nonstop flights from Wilmington International Airport starting in February 2025.

A new airline will be coming to Wilmington International Airport early next year and will add four new nonstop flights from Wilmington.

Breeze Airways will be offering nonstop flights from Wilmington to Hartford, Connecticut, and Orlando, Florida, starting Feb. 13, 2025. The airway will also offer nonstop flights to Fort Myers, Florida, and Providence, Rhode Island, starting Feb. 14, 2025.

"These great destinations will give the community more options to reavel to the Northeast and Florida," said David Neelemen, Breeze Airways' founder and CEO.

According to a press release from the airline, Wilmington marks Breeze's third city in North Carolina, including Raleigh-Durham and New Bern/Coastal cities.

"We're proud of the continued growth in air service at our airport and look forward to welcoming this new premium leisure airline to the list of carriers serving ILM. The addition of Breeze Airways gives residents and visitors another affordable airline to utilize in getting to and from our community," said LeAnn Pierce, vice chair for the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners and ILM airport authority member.

More: Avelo adding two new direct flights from Wilmington International Airport. Here's where.

The airline recently ranked in the top five of Travel + Leisure's "Best Domestic Airlines" for the third year in a row, according to the release. Breeze offers a "premium leisure" model that focuses on efficiency, affordability, comfort and accessibility.

"We're very excited about the announcement today that Breeze Airways will start service to four nonstop markets," said Jeff Bourk, airport director for ILM. "We're glad travelers have more options, and that ILM is more affordable than ever before."

Breeze does not charge change or cancellation fees up to 60 minutes prior to departure and offers free family seating and a la carte pricing. The airline also offers up to 24 months of reusable flight credit and customized flight features, according to the release.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Breeze Airways adds nonstop flights from Wilmington International Airport
For the last four years, conservative and right-wing activists and pundits have been engaged in a culture war that demonizes racial justice, the LGBTQ community and progressive ideals. So, when presumptive Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris announced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) as her running mate on Tuesday, the culture warriors immediately dusted off their old playbook to attack Walz.

Walz, a veteran and former teacher, has been a champion of LGBTQ rights, public education and racial equality  a platform that is anathema to Republican ideology.

As governor, he approved a measure that would provide free menstrual products to public schools, including putting them in both girls and boys bathrooms.

Scandalized by the idea, Chaya Raichik, the person behind the Libs of TikTok account, which is dedicated to smearing the LGBTQ community, began calling Walz Tampon Tim, suggesting that he should be embarrassed by advocating for period products.

But studies have shown that there is still a lot of stigma around menstruation, and 23% of students struggle to afford their own pads and tampons.

Elsewhere, Fox News Jesse Watters recently took aim at Minnesotas new flag, which debuted this year, and blamed Walz for the change. This guy changed the flag of the state to look more like Somalia, Watters claimed this week. The old flag, which was introduced in 1957, depicted a white man plowing the land while an Indigenous person rode horseback. Native communities in Minnesota asserted that the flag promoted the removal of Indigenous people from the land.

The new flag design was conceived by a state commission created by the legislature. While Walz did sign the bill creating that commission into law, he played no part in the design process. Also, the star design that conservatives allege was a copy of the Somalian flag was actually intended to be a literal representation of the state motto, The Star of the North.

But that hasnt stopped conservatives and right-wing figures from making false claims like this and others about Walz.

During a recent Fox News appearance, Stephen Miller, who was a senior adviser to Trump, said Walz and Harris would turn the entire Midwest into Mogadishu, also citing Walzs backing of refugee resettlement programs.

Meanwhile, Angela Morabito, the spokesperson for the Defense of Freedom Institute, a conservative nonprofit, posted claims on social media Tuesday that Walz kept pornographic books in Minnesota schoolsand promoted critical race theory.

These are popular lies among conservatives and right-wingers, who have spent the last three years attempting to ban books that promote racial equality or have LGBTQ themes from schools by falsely claiming they are sexually explicit or harmful to children.

But some of the most unhinged attacks have come from Christopher Rufo, a conservative activist who is largely credited with manufacturing a panic about critical race theory and helping Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) takeover of the New College, a small liberal arts school in Florida.

In a series of social media posts filled with lies, Rufo said Tuesday that Walz shouts trans women are women in the shower, knows that child castration is life-saving, gender-affirming care and speaks fluent critical race theory.

How did Republicans get here? As part of an effort to whip up a moral panic, conservatives have been smearing transgender people as child abusers, falsely suggesting that books that discuss gender and sexual orientation are sexually explicit, and claiming that critical race theory, a college-level framework for understanding racism and policy, is really about hating white people. And before pivoting to these issues, right-wing activists railed against COVID-related school closures, masks and vaccines.

But, unfortunately for Republicans, voters have repeatedlysignaled that the culture wars are not working as a winning electoral strategy.

After Glenn Youngkin won the governors mansion in 2021 while running on a parental rights message in Virginia, Republicans coalesced around the idea that a faux moral panic in the aftermath of the George Floyd protests could lead to electoral success.

But in the 2022 elections, the candidates who ran on right-wing social issues, like Doug Mastriano in Pennsylvania, Paul LePage in Maine and Tudor Dixon in Michigan, lost their races. DeSantis short campaign for president floundered from beginning to end, despite his attempt to take his anti-wokeness bona fides to the national stage.

The Republicans problem is now twofold. They seem to be unable to come up with attacks that can stick  especially to a politician who is white, Midwestern and moderate.

Then theres the fact that the Republican Party has abandoned any pretense of having a policy platform and has chosen to double down on its ever-growing list of white grievances. And while making deranged claims about Walzs record may satisfy its base, the culture war-style attacks are becoming more inscrutable to the average voter with each passing day.

Related...
The Wisconsin Expo Center is hosting a children's resale shop in September. Here's what you need to know

Just Between Friends has its pop-up children's resale biannually for families to shop clothing, books and baby items.

Shopping for kids can be expensive as they continue to grow. Next month, you'll have the chance to find children's clothes and other essentials at discounted prices

Just Between Friends is a resale shop in Wisconsin that will be expecting over 3,000 shoppers throughout its four-day pop-up children's resale.

Here's what to know about the Just Between Friends consignment sale.

When is the Just Between Friends consignment sale?

The resale will run through Sept. 19-22 at the Wisconsin Expo Center in State Fair Park, 8200 W Greenfield Ave.

How can I save on shopping while at the Just Between Friends consignment sale?

Just Between Friends published a guide called "5 Things to Never (ever) Buy New," which tells parents and guardians about certain items they should buy secondhand because it can save them money. The items included strollers, clothes, toys, books and infant essentials.

Just Between Friends has its pop-up children's resale biannually for families to shop clothing, books and baby items.

What will happen on each day at the Just Between Us consignment sale?

On Sept. 19 there will be a presale from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and you will need to have a purchased ticket upon entry.

The consignment will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sept. 20 with $3 general admissions; free tickets are available online. Also, a special teen night will begin at 3 p.m. and tickets are required.

Shopping will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 21, but tickets will be required to shop the half price presale from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Customers can shop half price on items that have tags with no star from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 22. Then, a 75% off sale will begin at 4 p.m. for items that have a "D" for donate and no star.

Click here to view full schedule.

Just Between Friends has its pop-up children's resale biannually for families to shop clothing, books and baby items.

Where can tickets be purchased?

Tickets are currently available on the JBF website; prices vary.

Where can I put my items while shopping at the Just Between Friends consignment sale?

Customers are provided IKEA bags and rolling packs to use as they shop, but events coordinator Melissa Monsoon also suggested customers bring a wagon.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Children's resale shop comes to Wisconsin State Fair grounds in 2024
Among the issues that concern Americans, health care is one of the most salient and one of the most complex and evolving as new technologies, public policies, and emerging concerns bring new challenges to the forefront.

Health care is the third most concerning issue during this presidential election year, according to WisconSays survey data collected as part of this years Main Street Agenda, which the La Follette School of Public Affairs at UW-Madison is using to highlight what matters to Wisconsin throughout 2024.

In this statewide representative survey, 54% of respondents report health care as quite or an extremely big problem for Wisconsin; 69% feel this way about health care being a problem for the country. These sentiments are felt across the state with 58% of Democrats and 54% of Republicans viewing it as quite a problem or an extremely big problem for the state. There is also little divide between urban (54%) and rural (53%) residents.

One of the biggest issues of the last presidential election was the COVID-19 public health crisis. Today, what aspects of health care are concerns for Wisconsinites? The cost of health care? Access to (quality) health care? Or other aspects of health care policy, such as the cost of prescription drugs, hospital mergers, changes in legal cannabis markets, or changes in access to reproductive health care? One concern that many across the state share surrounds the ongoing opioid crisis.

WisconSays survey participants rate eleven social topics on a scale of "not a problem" to an "extremely big problem" in Wisconsin. University of Wisconsin Madison Survey Center.

Opioid crisis testing an already stressed health care system

Three decades and more than a million U.S. overdose deaths later, this full-blown crisis is on the minds of people across the state regardless of their situation, with widespread implications across demographics including gender, race, ethnicity, and geography.

Opioids release powerful endorphins into your brains reward centers, making them highly addictive. An opioid overdose can lead to respiratory depression and death if not treated in time with naloxone (Narcan) and additional medical attention. Most opioid overdoses occur from prescription opioids (e.g., oxycodone) or illicit opioids (e.g., heroin or fentanyl).

In 2022, more than 80,000 Americans died from opioids. It was the most deaths in a year due to the drug, and roughly four times the number of deaths attributed to opioids just a decade earlier. Nearly 1,500 Wisconsinites lost their lives to opioids in 2022, almost 20% more than just two years prior.

The effects of the epidemic on our communities and health care system reach far beyond overdose mortality. One understudied aspect of the opioid crisis is its impact on women, infants, and children.

Opioids have far-reaching effects on communities and public health

Use of opioids during pregnancy can lead to neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), a withdrawal condition at birth. The number of infants born with NAS increased more than fivefold from 2004 to 2016 in the US.

Some of the collaborative work I do with the La Follette School and the Institute for Research on Poverty investigates the prevalence of prenatal opioid exposure and its effects on infant outcomes, early childhood development, and involvement with child protective services.

Our research found that nearly two percent of births for Medicaid recipients in Wisconsin from 2010 to 2019 received an NAS diagnosis. We also found, using our broadest definition, that 20% of expectant mothers with Medicaid had some likely exposure to opioids.

Opioid exposure is also associated with worse infant health outcomes such as low birthweight, small for gestational age, placement in the neonatal intensive care unit, and referrals to child protective services. These effects are more pronounced for exposure from opioids used for the treatment of opioid use disorder and possible illicit opioids than for traditional prescription opioids.

We are also studying the relationship between prenatal opioid exposure and health and development among young children. Our preliminary results suggest that exposure to opioids of more than 90 days is associated with an increased risk of cognitive and intellectual disability diagnosis by age 5.

Christine Durrance

Beyond the impacts on infants and children, these data suggest that the opioid crisis is also stretching thin a health care system that is already overtaxed, not to mention burdens on the child welfare system, emergency response, law enforcement, and the judicial system. Policymakers and public health experts have introduced many promising approaches to combat the crisis, but like a game of Whac-a-Mole, new facets of the crisis emerge each time others begin to be addressed. Many of the latest concerns involve deadly illicit opioids.

Too early to tell if data showing decrease in deaths is statistical blip

Early data from the CDC indicate that opioid-related deaths may have slightly decreased in 2023, but these estimates are provisional and amount to more than 80,000 deaths in just one year. It is far too early to consider it a win.

At the same time, roughly $55 billion will be distributed to state and local governments as part of the high-profile opioid settlements with companies largely responsible for the crisis. Some of these funds have already made their way to governments, with the stipulation that they must spend at least 85% on treatment and prevention. Wisconsin will receive $750 million, with the 87 local governments involved in the lawsuit receiving 70% of the funds to help address the crisis.

With resources come hope. But the opioid crisis is an ever-evolving issue where increasingly dangerous opioids such as fentanyl have raised the stakes. Other deadly substances often combined with opioids, including Xylazine (tranq), a powerful non-opioid sedative, have made addressing the crisis even more difficult. There is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

A hunt shouldn't cause rancor. Wisconsin has stable and growing sandhill crane population.

It is critical that we pair the funds being distributed with targeted solutions, based on sound, evidence-based research, that support distinct aspects of the crisis: prevention of opioid misuse and dependence, reduction in diversion, improved access to opioid use disorder treatment, and harm reduction, rightsized for different populations, including early intervention for pregnant populations with opioid use disorder.

Wisconsinites believe that health care is a significant problem for our state and country. If we cannot turn the tide on opioids, health care will figure even larger in the publics consciousness as more of our communities are directly or indirectly affected by the opioid crisis.

Christine Durrance is a professor in the La Follette School of Public Affairs at the University of WisconsinMadison who studies health economics and policy, with particular interests in risky behavior, including substance use and the opioid crisis; maternal, infant, and reproductive health; child maltreatment and domestic violence; and competition in health care markets. Much of her work focuses on vulnerable populations.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin voters concerned about health care ahead of 2024 election
TechCrunch

California's newest law could land social media users who post, or repost, AI deepfakes that deceive voters about upcoming elections in legal trouble. Governor Gavin Newsom suggests that AB 2839, which went into effect immediately after he signed it on Tuesday, could be used to reel in the retweets of Elon Musk, among others who spread deceptive content. "I just signed a bill to make this illegal in the state of California," said Newsom in a tweet, referencing an AI deepfake Musk reposted earlier this year that made it appear Kamala Harris called herself an incompetent candidate and a diversity hire (she did not).
The term "woke" has evolved significantly from its original meaning. Traditionally, it means being awake or conscious, but in recent years, it has taken on a broader, more political significance.

The term has become particularly contentious in the political arena. Vice President Kamala Harris, who has advocated for staying woke, has faced criticism from conservative figures, including former President Donald Trump. As Harris prepares to run for president against Trump, her past statements on being woke have resurfaced, fueling political debate.

The Free Speech Center describes woke to suggest "someone who has been oblivious to social issues, but then awakens to the see the world differently."

The term can be traced back to a 1938 song about the Scottsboro Boys, nine Black teenagers falsely accused of rape in Alabama. Despite clear evidence of their innocence, they were convicted by an all-white jury. According to Human Rights Careers, "woke" originally meant being smart and alert to racism within the Black community.

In recent times, particularly during the Black Lives Matter movement, "woke" regained prominence as a call to recognize and combat police brutality and systemic racism. It has since broadened to encompass various progressive political concerns.

However, the term has also garnered negative connotations. Merriam-Webster Dictionary notes that "woke" can imply political liberalism or progressivism perceived as extreme or unreasonable.

Today, "woke" is often used to describe identity politics, with phrases like "wokeness," "wokeism," or "woke ideology" entering the lexicon

Conservative politicians, including former President Donald Trump, have rallied against the "woke ideology" of Americans battling for diversity, inclusion, and equity efforts in the workforce, public schools and in legislation.

A clip from 2017 of Vice President Kamala Harris saying "everybody needs to be woke" has resurfaced and caused a stir. It was also posted on her social media at the time.

Is Vice President Kamala Harris woke?

Kamala Harris made the "woke" statement during a 2017 conference when she was a U.S. Senator speaking with Laurene Powell Jobs.

The subject touched on immigration and environmental issues. Harris then spoke out against the Trump administration's drug policies and immigration policies, and then called on Americans to be "woke."

Harris said during the interview that it was "good for democracy," for people on all side to be engaged with what was going on. She called on Americans to be active and "woke." She later posted on her social media, "We have to stay active. We have to stay woke."

This article originally appeared on USATNetwork: What is woke culture? Is Kamala Harris woke?
Investigators are asking for the publics help in identifying a driver involved in a non-contact hit-and-run crash in Koreatown late last month that left a 31-year-old woman with severe injuries.

The crash occurred on July 20 just before 2 a.m., according to a news release from the Los Angeles Police Department.

Investigators say 35-year-old L.A. resident Luis Sanches-Galicia was driving a Nissan Frontier pickup truck southbound while in the northbound lanes of Normandie Avenue, north of 1st Street when a driver of a newer model blue Chevrolet Camero swerved into the lane the truck was in, causing him to crash into several vehicles parked alongside the roadway.

Medical personnel with the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the crash site and rushed the 31-year-old passenger in the Nissan to the hospital for medical treatment.

Koreatown hit-and-run

The driver of the blue Chevrolet Camaro failed to stop, identify themselves and or render aid to the injured person and fled the scene southbound on Normandie Avenue, the release noted.

3 men get decades in jail for robbery, fatal shooting of L.A. police officer

Sanches-Galicia, who was driving the wrong way in the northbound lanes of Normandie Avenue, was arrested on a felony charge of driving under the influence.

It is unclear if the two vehicle were engaged in an illegal street race.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Departments West Traffic Division at 213-473-0222. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or leave tips online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Woman charged with second degree murder in 2021 Crossville drug overdose death

CROSSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A Crossville woman has been charged with murder in a 2021 drug overdose death, state authorities announced Tuesday.

According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), Crossville Police Department officers responded to a 911 call on Willow Street on Sept. 14, 2021. When the arrived, they found Samuel Mashburn, 35, deceased in the driveway.

Detective charged with assault for use of physical force during arrest

An autopsy later revealed Mashburn died of acute combined multiple drug intoxication, TBI said.

An investigation with the Cumberland County Sheriffs Department, Crossville Police Department, and 13th Judicial District Attorney Generals office determined Jerica Hayes, a friend of Mashburns, was the person who supplied him with fentanyl.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The Cumberland County Grand Jury handed down an indictment Monday, Aug. 5, charging Hayes with one count of second degree murder and one count of delivery of fentanyl. She was served at the Cumberland County Jail, where she remains as of publication.

Her bond was set at $1,000,000, according to the TBI.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A three-wheeled motorcycle rider was critically injured Tuesday night after crashing in Paradise Hills, authorities said.

According to the San Diego Police Department, a 67-year-old woman was traveling westbound in the 6000 block of Parkside Avenue shortly before 10 a.m. The rider was reportedly going at a high rate of speed.

At one point, police said the woman failed to negotiate a left-hand bend in the road and struck the back of parked vehicle. The rider was transported to the hospital with an open fracture to her right wrist and right femur, as well as a spinal fracture. Her injuries are considered to be life-threatening.

Traffic Division officers responded to the scene and are investigating the collision. Police determined that DUI was not a factor in this crash.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
UPDATE: Kirkwood was found dead in a pond nearby.

Original story:

LAKE COUNTY, Ind.  A Silver Alert has been issued for Merrillville, Indiana woman with dementia who went missing after visiting the Lake County Fair.

Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. said 55-year-old Vicki Lynn Kirkwood went missing after visiting the Lake County Fair with her mother. Surveillance cameras captured Vicki leaving the fairgrounds and walking northbound at around 1:15 p.m. Tuesday. She was last seen at around 2 p.m.

Vicki is 55, weighs 140 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black Chicago Bulls sweatshirt and purple and black striped pants, according to investigators.

She is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance.

Anyone who sees her or knows of her whereabouts is asked to call the Lake County Sheriffs Department at 219-755-3400 or 911 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 WGN-TV.
Woman grateful to be alive after tree falls on car during storms

Woman grateful to be alive after tree falls on car during storms

CLEVELAND (WJW)  Powerful storms pounded Northeast Ohio on Tuesday with high winds and heavy rain, causing widespread power outages and flooding stretches of the freeway system and surface streets.

On the east side, Willoughby Hills was one of the hardest hit areas. The winds toppled scores of trees and took down power lines, blocking roads and creating a dangerous situation for hours.

Part of roof ripped from Brook Park rec center during storms

One of the trees fell on the car of a 19-year-old woman as she was driving along Chardon Road.

Woman says she's lucky to be alive after tree falls on car during storms in Willoughby Hills

She told FOX 8 that it was a close call and she feels fortunate to be alive.

I was getting off work and cars were stopping and I couldnt see. I stopped behind a car and the tree came down on me while I was driving, she said.

When asked what she was thinking as it happened, she responded, I thought I was going to die.

More than 200K without power in Cuyahoga County; thousands across NE Ohio

There were stories of good fortune or providence on the west side as well.

The owner of a house in Avon Lake was at work when a falling tree sheered off the front of his house.

Neighbors say their hearts sank when they saw the scope of the damage and spotted the owners truck was in the garage.

They thought he was trapped inside in the house, but later learned that he decided to take his motorcycle on Tuesday and was still at work when the storms unleashed their fury.

We were all very very pleased. The whole neighborhood was so happy to hear that he wasnt home, a neighbor, Chuck Pettys, told FOX 8.

While the storms left significant damage in their wake, many people have reasons to be grateful.

William Richards lives in the same neighborhood in Avon Lake.

You know, thank God, so lucky, he said. I mean, I feel horrible that hes going to come home and see this, but you know, thank God he wasnt 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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said a single-vehicle crash Tuesday evening has killed a Russellville woman.

ALEA Senior Trooper Cody Farrar said 38-year-old Savannah L. Hall was killed in a single-vehicle all-terrain vehicle (ATV) crash Tuesday.

Portion of I-65 blocked due to overturned tractor-trailer in Morgan County

Senior Trooper Farrar said around 5:30 p.m., Hall was driving on Lost Creek Road near Franklin County 84 when her ATV overturned. ALEA said she was thrown from the vehicle and was pronounced dead on the scene.

Troopers with ALEA said 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 WHNT.com.
Woman wanted for kidnapping of child in Shelby County arrested in MS

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A woman wanted for the especially aggravated kidnapping of a child in Shelby County was arrested after her cell phone pinged nearly 100 miles away in Grenada County, Mississippi, authorities say.

The Grenada County Sheriffs Office said deputies located Regan Kelly, 28, Monday on Carpenter Road. They said the alleged kidnapped child was found at the residence along with another child.

The children were not hurt and were released to Child Protective Services.

The Grenada County Sheriffs Office said they began working with the Shelby County Sheriffs Office, Millington Police, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and Grenada Police after warrants were issued for Kellys arrest. They have not released any other details.

Mom says 4-year-old was stuck in the heat after getting locked out of preschool

Kelly is also charged with aggravated burglary.

Kelly was booked in the Grenada County Jail and then extradited to Tennessee. She is being held in the Shelby County jail on a $50,000 bond.

The Grenada County Sheriffs Office said both children are now with their legal guardians.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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.
Women Really Are Less Likely to Be Treated For Their Pain Than Men

In a result that will ring familiar for many women, new research has revealed a massive disparity in how pain is treated.

Women being discharged from emergency departments in Israel and the US are far less likely to be given a prescription for pain medication than men, even when being treated for the exact same ailments or when their reported pain scores were exactly the same.

Out of 17,576 patients in one dataset, some 47 percent of men were dispatched with a prescription for an analgesic medicine, compared to just 38 percent of women.

This, according to a team led by psychologists Mika Guzikevits of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Tom Gordon-Hecker of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel, was consistent across all ages and ailments, and the prescribing doctors' genders, revealing an alarming sex bias in how seriously women's complaints are taken.

"We argue that female patients receive less pain treatment than they should, which may adversely impact their health," the researchers write in their paper.

"The findings underscore the critical need to address psychological biases in healthcare settings to ensure fair and efficient treatment for all."

Research in recent years has revealed an alarming bias in the way the world perceives women's pain. Laypeople are more likely to think that women are exaggerating their pain than men, and perceive that grimacing women are experiencing less pain than men with similar facial expressions.

Many studies have shown that women reporting pain are perceived as hysterical, emotional, imagining things, or even lying. And this has the potential to be a big problem when transmuted to a medical setting.

Research has found that women reporting chronic pain are more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health condition. Women wait longer for treatment in emergency rooms. Women are less likely to be prescribed postoperative pain management medication. And multiple studies have found that medical practitioners perceive women to be less, and men more, trustworthy when reporting pain, often based on surveys and virtual patients.

Guzikevits, Gordon-Hecker, and their colleagues wanted to examine real outcomes in clinical settings, so they made a study of anonymized patient data from hospitals in the US and Israel. They looked at factors such as the age and sex of the patient, the level of pain reported and the diagnosed ailment, how often the patient visited the emergency department, and what the patient was prescribed.

Their data includeda total of 21,851 patients presenting at the hospital for pain, and the results were striking.

"Across these datasets, a consistent sex disparity emerges," the researchers write.

"Female patients are less likely to be prescribed pain-relief medications compared to males, and this disparity persists even after adjusting for patients' reported pain scores and numerous patient, physician, and emergency department variables."

This disparity in treatment could not be linked to any other variable than the sex of the patient, the researchers found. Given the wealth of studies showing a huge disparity in the way the pain of women and men are perceived, the researchers could only conclude that the reason for this disparity is bias.

In a further test, the team presented 109 healthcare providers with a scenario describing a patient with severe back pain, rated 9 out of 10 by the patient. Only the patient's sex differed, with all other scenario details identical. When the patient was female, participants rated the pain intensity lower on average (72 out of 100) than when the patient was male (80 out of 100).

The researchers also noted that there have been some studies that didn't find a bias. These studies were conducted on patients with a tangible, physical source of pain, such as a broken bone or an infection. For those studies in which a bias is found, the source of the reported pain is less tangible  abdominal pain, or a headache.

The researchers suggest that computerized decision-reporting tools that help prescribe pain relief, and educating health practitioners about gender bias, could help resolve this ongoing issue and ensure better health outcomes for all patients.

"Inadequate pain management is known to lead to unnecessary suffering and deleterious health effects, and also carries preventable costs for public health," the researchers write in their paper.

"The present research provides robust evidence for healthcare providers' sex bias against female patients in pain management. We identify the stereotypical perception of females' pain as one of the potential mechanisms underlying the bias.

"The findings join mounting evidence of discrimination against females in the medical system and in other areas. Undertreatment of females' pain bears immediate implications for the healthcare system and broad implications for society's attitude toward female pain."

The research has been published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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U.S. Capitol | Susan J. Demas

There were no major surprises in the most-watched congressional primary races on Tuesday  but that may not be in the case in November.

At least four congressional races could help determine who controls the U.S. House next year. Currently, Republicans hold a slim majority.

In the 3rd District encompassing Grand Rapids and some of West Michigan, incumbent U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids) easily defeated challenger Salim Al-Shatel with 93% of the vote. The first-term lawmaker will be challenged in November by East Grand Rapids attorney Paul Hudson, who won the Republican primary over former gubernatorial candidate Michael Markey, 55% to 45%.

Although the seat has favored Republicans in the past, the Cook Political Report rates it as likely Democrat this cycle.

The 8th District, which includes Midland, Saginaw, Bay City and surrounding areas, saw former Trump administration official Paul Junge advance in the GOP primary with 74.8%, over former Dow Chemical executive Mary Draves who polled just 15.1% and trucking company owner Anthony Hudson with 10.1%.

Junge will now face State Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City), who won out with 53.4% on the Democratic side over former Flint Mayor Matt Collier at 26.3%, and Michigan Board of Education President Pamela Pugh at 20.4%.

The Cook Political Report rates it as a tossup.

In the 10th District, which includes some of northern Oakland County and Macomb County, former Judge Carl Marlinga polled 49.1% to win a four-way race among Democrats, with Diane Young at 24.6%, Tiffany Tilley at 13.4%, and Emily Busch at 12.9%. Marlinga will take on Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. John James (R-Shelby Twp.), who ran unopposed, in a rematch of the 2022 election for the then-open seat.

The Cook Political Report rates the district as lean Republican.

And with 99% of the precincts reporting in the 13th District, encompassing some of Detroit and Wayne County, incumbent Shri Thanedar (D-Detroit) beat back a challenge from Detroit City Councilwoman Mary Waters, 54.4% to 34.3%, while attorney Shakira Lynn Hawkins polled 11.4%. Thanedar will now take on Martell Bivings, who ran unopposed on the GOP side.

As the seat is solidly Democratic, Thanedar heads into November as the heavy favorite.

Here is a roundup of results of the rest of Michigans congressional primary elections:

1st District

U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Watersmeet) won over challenger Josh Saul in the GOP primary, 79% to 21%. Bergman will now face Callie Barr of Traverse City, who defeated Bob Lorinser in the Democratic primary 58% to 42%.

2nd District

U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Caledonia) ran unopposed in the Republican primary, as did Democrat Michael Lynch of Alma. They will now face off in the November general election.

4th District

U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Holland) defeated challenger Brendan Muir 73%-27% in the GOP primary and will take on Democrat Jessica Swartz, who ran unopposed.

5th District

Both U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Tipton) and Democrat Libbi Urban ran unopposed in their respective primaries and will face each other in the November.

6th District

U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor) will be challenged by Republican Heather Smiley of Riverview after both candidates ran unopposed in Tuesdays primaries.

7th District

Former state Sen. Curtis Hertel Jr. (D-East Lansing) and former state Sen. Tom Barrett (R-Charlotte) also ran unopposed in their respective primaries and will go head-to-head in November for the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly), who won her Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. This is considered one of the most competitive races in the nation.

9th District

U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Bruce Twp.) will be challenged by Democrat Clinton St. Mosley in the November general election after both candidates ran unopposed in their respective primaries.

11th District

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) easily overcame Ahmed Ghanim of Ferndale in the Democratic primary, 87% to 13%. Ghanim said he was trying to unseat Stevens over her support for Israel. Stevens will now face Bingham Farms attorney Nick Somberg, who is also representing Meshawn Maddock, a defendant in the ongoing fake elector case and former Michigan Republican Party co-chair. Somberg, a self-declared conservative and libertarian, defeated Charles Frangie of West Bloomfield 61% to 39% for the GOP nod.

12th District

U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Detroit) ran unopposed in her primary and will face Republican James Hooper, who defeated Linda Sawyer 60% to 40% in the GOP primary.

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You Won't Believe How Many Millions A Former Republican Mayor Just Gave Several HBCUs

This week, philanthropist and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced one of the largest financial gifts to the countrys four historically Black medical schools in history.

On August 6, Bloomberg Philanthropies announced a $600 million award that will be distributed between the endowments of Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science, Howard University College of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine and Meharry Medical College along with seed money to support the creation of the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, a new medical school in New Orleans.

The gift is part of the organizations Greenwood Initiative, designed to promote racial wealth equity by investing in academic institutions that serve students of color. It is also a major step towards diversifying the medical community by strengthening the financial stability of historically Black medical schools and making them more accessible to more Black students.

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 in a statement about the gift on the Bloomberg Philanthropies website. 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.



Meharry Medical College President and CEO Dr. James E.K. Hildreth expressed his gratitude for the gift that will help the school fulfill its mission to improve the quality of health care in the Black community.

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, he said in a statement.

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The Woodruff Arts Center is building up its educational programming for children and young people, but its not without a hefty price tag.

On Tuesday, the organization broke ground on the Goizueta Stage for Youth & Families and PNC PlaySpace. They also launched a $67 million capital campaign to complete the project.

Channel 2 Action News was at the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday.

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The Goizueta Stage for Youth & Families will feature programming from the Alliance Theatre and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra specifically targeted to young metro Atlantans.

The Woodruff Arts Center has a long history of excellent programming for children and families and the Stage will only enhance this programming for all children in the future, said Olga Goizueta Rawls, Chairman and CEO at The Goizueta Foundation.

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The PNC PlaySpace is described as an experiential learning center for kids to play and participate in interactive performances.

For more than a decade, PNC has worked to improve the quality of life in metro Atlanta through investments in high-quality early education and the arts, said Eddie Meyers, PNC Regional President for Georgia. Our continued support of the Woodruff Arts Center demonstrates a long-term commitment to promoting a strong, vibrant arts community and a lifelong love of learning in Atlantas children.

Construction on both projects begins later this month. They are set to open up in 2026.

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Republican Jennifer Wortz will face Democrat Don Hicks in November for the District 35 Michigan House seat after a decisive victory Tuesday in the three-candidate Republican primary.

With all Branch County precincts reporting and all 26 from Hillsdale County, the 44-year-old mother of four, and grandmother, received over 52% of the votes.

Total vote Branch County Hilsdale County Lenawee County

Jennifer Wortz 7,302 3,302 3,931 69

Adam Stockford 4,205 1,365 2,793 47

Tom Matthew 2,547 1,544 967 36

The fifth generation of the Hillsdale Waldron Gary Leininger family, Wortz now serves as manager of the Branch County Conservation District.

Her brother Brent Leininger serves on the Hillsdale County Commission.

Wortz, 45, owns Central Grace Farms near Quincy with her husband Nathan. Since 2016, they have raised 600,000 chickens a year under contract with Miller Poultry.

As head of Moms for Liberty, Wortz protested and opposed COVID-19 restrictions.

Wortz will face Hicks, a retired Bronson High School teacher, in the general election in the heavily Republican district.

District 35 is comprised of Branch and Hillsdale counties with the village of Hudson in Lennawee County.

Subscribe Follow the 2024 elections. Subscribe to the Daily Reporter.

Incumbent Andrew Fink qualified to run for the Michigan Supreme Court and decided not to seek reelection.

Contact Don Reid: dReid@Gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Wortz Republican Michigan House District 35 Branch Hillsdale
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The observatory that overlooks Mount St. Helens is now expected to re-open years later than what was initially anticipated.

In an update shared last week, the Washington State Department of Transportations southwest division said the Johnston Ridge Observatory is slated to re-open in spring 2027  along with the upper portion of the nearby highway.

WATCH: Alaska Airlines plane makes wobbly emergency landing at Portland International Airport

KOIN 6 previously reported that officials hoped to re-open the roads in summer 2024, over a year after unseasonably warm temperatures caused the rapid snowmelt that led to a massive landslide.

Shortly after 9 p.m. Sunday, May 14, 2023, more than 300,000 cubic yards of debris from an adjacent hillside fell approximately 2,000 feet above State Route 504 and covered the roadway with rock, mud, ice and water, causing catastrophic damage to the 85-foot Spirit Lake Outlet Bridge at milepost 49, WSDOT said.

While there were no injuries, about a dozen people were left stranded overnight as they waited for a King County helicopter crew to rescue them. The evacuees recovered their vehicles nearly two months later.

Portland air quality to worsen as wildfire smoke pushes west

WSDOTs recent update shows that crews installed a temporary bypass in the area in July 2023, but it failed in November. The transportation department and the U.S. Forest Service then determined they would focus on a permanent bridge replacement.

According to the proposed timeline, officials will finish designing the bridge and launch the bidding process for the project contract next summer.

Construction is expected to last from spring to fall 2026. The USFS will also work to restore power and conduct any necessary repairs at the observatory.

Truck crashes into detached garage in Vancouver

This portion of SR 504 is closed every year for about six months due to harsh winter conditions. So the timeline is due to only have access to the roadway/facility during the few fair weather months between May and early November, WSDOT explained on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The Hummocks Trailhead, Coldwater Lake, and Science and Learning Center remain open to visitors.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
The father of two teenage girls killed in an upstate New York car accident last week said he learned about the tragedy by tracking their phone's location.

Hailey Trumble, 19, and Shelby Trumble, 17, died from injuries sustained in the Thursday evening crash in Ira, a small town just outside of Syracuse, the sheriff's office wrote on a Facebook post.

Police said Hailey was driving a Chevy Cobalt eastbound when it crested a hill, crossed into the opposite lane and collided with another vehicle heading westbound. The driver of the other vehicle, a Jeep Cherokee, was hospitalized with serious injuries and was in stable condition, the sheriff's office said.

The teen's father Brian Trumble told Syracuse.com that the girls were heading home from the Seabreeze Amusement Park in Irondequoit when the fatal crash happened only 3 miles from their home in Granby home.

Its a tremendous loss, he told the outlet. Its never going to be the same again.

Father said he used the 'Find My' Friends app

Trumble said that on the evening of the crash, he was concerned when neither of his daughters answered his several texts and phone calls, the outlet reported.

He decided to use Apple's "Find My" app to track their iphone's locations and drove to the scene of the crash, the outlet reported. By the time he arrived officers already sectioned off the roads and he got the worst news of his life.

"An officer asked what I was doing, what I was looking for," Brian told Syracuse.com. "I told him I was looking for my daughters."

Texas hot car death: Houston mom charged with murder in baby son's death; grandma says it's a mistake

Mother says girls were 'so full of life'

Trumble and his wife, Tina Trumble, described their daughters as simple country girls interested in animals, crafts, camping and fishing, according to Syracuse.com. The sisters would often paint each others nails or watch shows like "Gilmore Girls" and "Heartland."

Shelby graduated high school in June and Hailey last year, the outlet reported. Shelby worked at Reeves Farm Stand in Baldwinsville while Hailey was set to begin a new daycare job on Monday, Brian Trumble said.

"They were everything that you wish you could be," Tina Trumble told the outlet. "So full of life. They were loved and so beautiful."

A GoFundMe page has raised nearly $40,000 as of Tuesday to support the Trumble family's funeral expenses in a "time of unimaginable loss and need." A funeral service has been scheduled for on Saturday, Aug. 10.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New York dad learns crash killed his teen girls using 'Find My' app
Its the Friday afternoon before early voting begins, and Alexander Otaola is sitting in an armchair in his studio in Homestead, working his way into a nearly three-hour monologue on the creep of communism in the Americas, turmoil in Venezuela and Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, his main target in this months primary election.

With production lights reflecting off his glasses, the acerbic, 45-year-old YouTube personality calls the countys Democratic mayor a socialist, communist leftist who plans to radicalize the county. He blames her for persistent problems at Miami International Airport. Staring into a camera, he implores his viewers  who helped the video rack up more than 100,000 views over the weekend  to reject an administration he says is part of a failed communist revolution.

The record of this mayor, who leans leftist  do you really want to gamble on that? he asks rhetorically, in Spanish. Banners stripped across the bottom of the screen direct viewers to donate money to his mayoral campaign.Do you want to keep ignoring what needs to be done?

Four years after emerging as one of the most important  and, critics say, dangerous  voices pushing South Floridas conservative-leaning Hispanic voters further to the right, the Cuban-American influencer is betting that his enthusiastic base of online support will translate to the ballot box during the Aug. 20 primary election for county mayor.

He has never held elected office, has no experience running a government, and prefers to conduct interviews in Spanish, sometimes using an interpreter. His promise to root out communism from South Florida has little to do with the day-to-day duties of the job hes seeking to run Miami-Dade Countys nearly $13 billion government. But he has proven that he can move masses, and he has an asset no other candidate can come close to matching: a megaphone in the form of a YouTube channel with 375,000 subscribers.

I have no ties to anyone, Im entering politics with no biases, and Ive raised over $300,000 in my campaign thanks to my shows audience, Otaola told el Nuevo Herald recently in an interview.

Alex Otaola, as seen on his YouTube program.

Born in Camaguey, Cuba, Otaolas campaign message sounds like the daily, three-hour program he hosts every afternoon  Hola! Ota-Ola!  in which he toggles between dark sarcasm, sophomoric humor and political commentary, much of it about the dangers of leftism. His hopes lean transparently on his Cubanos por el Mundo - Live YouTube channel, helping him spread his message while relying almost entirely on campaign contributions of $25 or less.

Polls, while sparingly available, raise questions about whether he can muster enough support from the regions nearly 1.5 million voters to earn a spot in a November runoff election, which will only be held if Levine Cava fails to earn at least half the vote on Aug. 20.

Levine Cavas team says shes on track to win outright later this month. An internal poll from July obtained by the Herald found the mayor notching nearly 56% of the vote, while Otaola had just 7% support, according to the survey.

And yet, other candidates on the ballot are paying him to advertise on his program, which he has used in recent years to organize political rallies and massive car caravans for Donald Trump. The former president thought enough of Otaolas following that he granted the influencer an interview just a few weeks before the 2020 election, with Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart translating.

I am not running for mayor to be popular, Otaola told the Herald. Im already popular.

Miami-Dade County mayoral candidate Alexander Otaola speaks at a community outreach event on Venezuelan issues held at El Tropico restaurant, where he is accompanied by his bodyguard for added security.

Capitalizing on Miamis exile community

Otaolas rise from YouTuber to Miami-Dade mayoral candidate has been meteoric. He began his career in Cuba, training in the arts and working as an actor, and then spent a decade in Miami television with Univision and Mega TV before launching his YouTube programming.

Otaolas Cubanos por el Mundo - Live channel  one of several accounts, each with hundreds of thousands of subscribers  has become a major platform for discussing both national and regional politics, and now serves as the cornerstone of his mayoral campaign. His audience varies widely. His show attracts listeners from young adults to seniors, though its unclear how many live in Miami-Dade County.

Otaolas campaign promises include 13 proposals, ranging from declaring Miami-Dade a communism-free zone to legalizing recreational marijuana  many of which may be beyond the scope of a county mayors authority. He also proposes establishing commissions to investigate businesses with ties to Venezuelan, Nicaraguan, and Cuban dictatorships.

Its well-known that money is laundered for these regimes from Miami, Otaola told the Herald. There are front men, heirs, and even relatives of high-ranking officials from these dictatorships who run businesses here.

His message hinges on the belief that the international left is attempting to destabilize and discredit the American system. He repeats the falsehood that the 2020 election was rigged, citing irregularities that he believes the courts ignored, though he acknowledges that President Joe Biden is the legitimate president. Otaola, who says he left Cuba in 2003 and last visited the island in 2015, shortly before launching his YouTube channels, is always accompanied by his bodyguard, claiming threats from communist groups as the reason for his heightened security.

I have received multiple death threats from the Cuban dictatorship, he said.

Otaolas critics  and there are many  see him as a red-baiting fear-monger capitalizing on the anxieties of Miamis exile community. In an interview, Ana Sofia Pelaez, founder of Miami Freedom Project, a non-profit that attempts to encourage civic engagement, criticized Otaolas campaign proposals as dog whistles and conspiracy theories that serve his own political interests.

The mayor of this community cant have an erratic message, the budget of Miami-Dade is bigger than the budget of some states, she said, adding that the mayor, whether Republican or Democrat, must address affordable housing and support families, among other issues. The mayor of Miami-Dade has to implement real solutions.

In 2020, WLRN commentator Tim Padgett called him a racist demagogue. Last year, political consultant Sasha Tirador sued Otaola for slander, saying hed accused her of being tied to Cubas communist regime. A private investigator she hired, Joe Carrillo, filed a restraining order this year against Otaola after he says he was surrounded by Otaolas armed security and then lambasted on his social platforms when he tried to deliver a cease-and-desist letter at the influencers home. That petition led to the confiscation of four firearms.

Alexander Otaola cheers to a small group of supporters outside a Miami-Dade courtroom after he was cleared in a stalking case on April 26, 2024. A judge ruled there was no evidence Otaola, a candidate for Miami-Dade County mayor, used his popular YouTube show to threaten or stalk the plaintiff, retired private investigator Joe Carrillo.

READ More: Otaola cleared in stalking case. Judge says no evidence of threats by mayor candidate

I dont necessarily fear he is going to do something to me, Carrillo testified in court in April. I fear someone out there is going to believe him and do something to me.

A judge dismissed the case, saying there was no evidence that Otaola made any threats.

Levine Cava and her allies dismissed Otaolas attacks on the mayor as lies and misinformation. Christian Ulvert, a Democratic consultant and senior adviser to Levine Cavas campaign, said that Otaolas rhetoric describing Levine Cava as a socialist is deeply insulting and offensive, particularly for those who fled authoritarian governments in Latin America.

She has been an unapologetic voice and leader for our community  whether Cubans, Nicaraguans, Venezuelans or Colombians, as she has heard the stories of the deep rooted pain we all feel and what so many fled, Ulvert said in a statement. Mr. Otaola would be better served listening to our community rather than lecturing with such hateful and false narratives.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava speaks during the Miami Leadership Local conference at Bilzen Sumberg in Miami on Friday, October 27, 2023.

In a separate statement, Levine Cava defended her record in office, insisting that shes governed in a nonpartisan manner and has bipartisan support across the county.

While my opponents have been focused on falsely attacking my record and trying to divide our community, I have been squarely focused on taking on our critical challenges with real solutions, she said.

LGBTQ agenda undermine family values

Otaolas campaign is testing the boundaries of his homegrown media networks reach. He earned national attention in 2020, when outlets from Mother Jones to VICE News raced to understand how a 2012 Obama voter could become Trumps most visible Spanish-language influencer in South Florida.

He has been financially successful, according to his financial disclosure, reporting that he has $450,000 in a bank account to go along with the $800,000 home he owns on four acres in Homestead.

The traditional press has lost credibility by becoming biased, said Otaola, who has been accused of purveying disinformation on his program. Disinformation is when I get messages claiming that [Vice President] Kamala Harris is the alternative to all of Trumps supposed racism.

But will his significant online following translate from the internet to the ballot box?

Last month, at a political event with Otaola and several sheriffs candidates at El Tropico restaurant in Doral, Isel Rodriguez, a 55-year-old Kendall resident, said Otaolas fans encouraged him to run for Miami-Dade mayor because he is an outsider with significant influence.

Miami-Dade County mayoral candidate Alexander Otaola supporters Maria Luisa Rodriguez Portieles (left), 87, and Isel Rodriguez (right), 55, at the Venezuelan issues community outreach event at El Tropico restaurant on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 in Doral, Fla.

Rodriguez acknowledged that Otaolas show is often satirical and that some of his statements may not be serious, but said it has made a substantial impact on her life. The feeling extends to her aunt, Maria Luisa Rodriguez Portieles, 87, who traveled last week from Austin, Texas, to see Otaola, who also hails from Camaguey, Cuba.

He has been advocating for the airport, which is in disrepair, and has been critical of the failing education system, particularly how children are being sexualized, said Isel Rodriguez.

Even though Otaola is the only openly gay candidate for Miami-Dade mayor, he criticizes the approach the LGBTQ community takes in advocating for their rights. He argues that certain actions, which he views as emblematic of the LGBTQ agenda, undermine family values and contribute to the sexualization of children  positions that align with some Republican viewpoints.

I do not support the LGBTQ+ agenda, Otaola stated in the Herald interview. I do not identify with the sexualization of children or the erosion of family values.

Otaola believes that the LGBTQ community, rather than fostering inclusion, has become increasingly segregated. Exclusive gay bars and dedicated events or parades for the gay community do not promote integration; they perpetuate segregation.

RELATED CONTENT: Can the former mayor of Surfside run Miami-Dade County? Hes waging a long shot bid

Hundreds of South Florida Residents joined influencer Alex Otaola on a caravan along the streets of Miami from Krome Avenue to Coconut Grove, named Salvemos America or Lets save America, in support of all Republican candidates on Saturday November 05, 2022.

Focus is on the grassroots

Otaola told the Herald that, where establishment Republicans have abandoned him, his supporters will carry him. He doesnt tout any political endorsements for Miami-Dade mayor, despite actively participating in events with various politicians. He dismisses a question about whether he is competing for votes with Manny Cid, the Republican mayor of Miami Lakes Mayor, saying its the other way around.

It seems the Republicans would rather divide their own vote than see me become mayor of Miami-Dade County, he said.

His campaign has also brought in Roger Stone, paying $12,000 to the South Florida-based political operative who has advised Trump off and on. Stone has explained his decision to support Otaola by citing his admiration for Otaolas courage to stand against the imposition of woke progressive politics. A testimonial attributed to Stone on the website of Otaolas political committee  called Miami-Dade Communist Free Zone  refers to the candidate as possibly the most influential Latino influencer in Miami-Dade and increasingly in South Florida.

When Otaola announced his candidacy in April 2023, Stone helped him assemble his campaign team and navigate the intricacies of running a campaign, Otaola says. Stone is expected to meet with Otaola on Aug. 20 before the candidate votes, a campaign spokesperson said.

If Otaola can earn enough votes to at least come in second, and keep Levine Cava from receiving more than 50% of the vote, hell set up a head-to-head matchup on Nov. 5, when voters will also be voting on a new president. Shlomo Danzinger, Carlos Garin, Miguel Quintero and Eddy Rojas are also on the ballot.

For now, at least, Trump isnt likely to weigh in on the Miami-Dade mayors race, multiple sources said, though they cautioned that could change if the election heads to a runoff in November. A spokesperson for Trumps campaign did not respond to the Heralds request for comment on Otaolas candidacy or a possible endorsement.

When asked about a potential endorsement from Trump, Otaola said he is neither seeking nor interested in it.

My support for President Trump and the momentum from his campaign will naturally carry over to me, even without his formal endorsement, Otaola said. My focus is on the grassroots supporters who donate $20 or $5 to my campaign. Thats where Im channeling all my energy  toward those who share a different vision for Miami-Dade.

This article has been updated to include additional information about Otaolas multiple YouTube channels.
OpenAI has been sued by a YouTuber whose videos were transcribed and used to train its artificial intelligence system, opening a new front in the legal battle against companies leading development of the technology.

With the lawsuit, creators on YouTube join sprawling litigation over the unauthorized utilization of copyrighted material to power ChatGPT. Creators whove initiated legal action against AI firms include artists, authors, news publishers and record labels.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

The complaint brought by David Millette on Friday in federal court in San Francisco builds off a report from The New York Times published in April over OpenAIs creation of a speech recognition system called Whisper. Faced with a supply problem in late 2021 after exhausting nearly every reservoir of text on the internet, the Sam Altman-led company allegedly built the tool to transcribe audio from YouTube videos, with the aim of training the next version of GPT.

According to the complaint, OpenAI used Whisper to transcribe from more than 1 million hours of video from YouTube in violation of its terms of service, which bars people from using its content for independent applications and accessing services by automated means (such as robots, botnets or scrapers). Greg Brockman, president and one of the 11 co-founders on the company (who has taken a leave of absence), is listed as a creator of Whisper in a research paper.

OpenAIs Language Models datasets include transcriptions of videos taken directly from YouTube, because these video transcriptions are one of the largest corpora of natural language data available for training and fine-tuning the OpenAI Language Models, states the complaint.

Some Google employees were aware that OpenAI harvested YouTube videos for training data but didnt take action since the Alphabet-owned company was doing the same to develop its own AI system, according to the Times report. If Google called out OpenAI for possibly violating the copyrights of YouTube creators, it could face similar blowback, the report said citing people with knowledge of the situation.

Notably, Millette doesnt bring a claim for copyright infringement and only alleges unjust enrichment and unfair competition over the utilization of video transcripts without consent or compensation. He seeks at least $5 million and a court order blocking OpenAI from further using his content.

A federal judge overseeing a lawsuit from top authors against OpenAI on July 30 dismissed a claim accusing the company of violating Californias unfair competition law, the same claim advanced by Millette. U.S. District Judge Araceli Martinez-Olguin found that federal law bars the claim since it relates to material within the subject matter of copyright, though she grounded some of her reasoning in the fact that it overlaps with a claim for direct copyright infringement, which wasnt alleged in the class action seeking to represent YouTubers.

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YSL Woody has found himself at the center of controversy and courtroom drama, as the states star witness seemingly trolled the presiding judge regarding his potential testimony against Young Thug.

Earlier this week, YSL Woody, real name Kenneth Copeland, appeared in court and was questioned about his plans to cooperate with the prosecution and testify on their behalf. Upon being asked his intentions by Judge Paige Reese Whitaker, Woody responded with a dismissive, Depends on how I wake up, casting further doubt on his credibility as a witness.

Woody has publicly criticized the prosecution on multiple occasions, alleging that he was coerced into cooperating against Young Thug and YSL in his initial testimony.

Young Thug attends the 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on October 01, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Complicating matters, Woody has recently dismissed two attorneys, as he claims that he was misled regarding his cooperation and testimony in the case. You waited until Friday and did this, Woody reportedly told his former attorney. I done told you every day before Friday came that I was pleading the Fifth Yall done me wrong. Yall just hold me in the jail, dont let me get no PIN number, no nothing.

During the hearing, the prosecution was informed that Woody will have to decide whether he will testify against Young Thug prior to taking the stand at his next court appearance due to his remarks regarding the circumstances surrounding his previous testimony. The defendant faces potential contempt charges if he fails to testify as required.

Young Thug celebrates Futures birthday at Versace Mansion on November 17, 2017 in Miami, Florida.

Woody is set to take the stand again on Monday, Aug. 12.

Woodys nonchalant behavior is just the latest curveball to surface in Young Thugs YSL RICO case, which is now the longest running trial in Georgia history. In the past month, two judges have either been removed or recused themselves from the case, with the second judge assigned to the trial stepping down due to a romantic relationship between her former courthouse deputy and a defendant in the case.

See footage of YSL Woodys court appearance below.

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As the American political landscape drastically shifted and the Democratic party breathed a sigh of relief when President Joe Biden ended his re-election bid, his successors campaign swiftly began to take shape. Many elements seemed familiar from past election cycles  the canvassing and relentless emails or text messages, or both. But a July 29 evening gathering on Zoom presented something new in the presidential campaign cycle when it brought, as one famous speaker put it, a rainbow of beige men that counted nearly a dozen A-list Hollywood celebrities and major political figures among them to raise funds for Vice President Kamala Harris nascent campaign.

The White Dudes For Harris Zoom meeting was a feel-good, self-aware round-robin of famous L.A.- and D.C.-based men alternately talking about Harris with great passion (Sean Astins passionate speech stood out on this front); being a white dude (Jeff Bridges, the Dude himself, plainly told viewers hes just a white dude who supports Harris); how all should fear the threat of a second Trump administration; and how uncomfortable it was to be in a gathering of all white men ([The meeting] doesnt sound like something Id usually join, but this is a great cause, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker quipped).

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The three-hour and 20-minute Zoom was pulled together in just a few days and managed to lure in celebrities through what its organizer Ross Morales Rocketto calls a virtuous cycle, as news of the upcoming event went viral. Some celebrities, like Mark Hamill, just happened to come across the listing and were invited via their agents to speak with the gathering. Bridges, it turns out, came on board just 30 minutes ahead of the event and was asked to kick things off as the first guest to speak. The event reached voters nationwide, with 51 percent of its 200,000-plus attendees watching from battleground states, according to its organizers.

A fundraising call tailored for one of several splinter groups of the U.S. electorate, the wildly popular event was an example of how identity politics will continue to take up a lot of the oxygen this election year. As we saw from Republican presidential nominee Donald Trumps recent comments about Harris race, identity is frequently used in politics to disparage and disrespect. But with this and several similar Zoom meetings, its inherent power is being harnessed in tandem with now-mainstreamed communications technology to organize and galvanize the electorate.

When applied to a group of self-described white dudes, this organizational tactic may be uncomfortable for some  even a little taboo, according to Rocketto, who spoke with The Hollywood Reporter. But its crucial for the Democrats in 2024, given Trumps wide appeal to the white male demographic. Over 60 percent of white men voted MAGA in 2016 and 2020, according to exit polling data from Edison Research. And as political operative Rocketto, who also hosted the White Dudes for Harris Zoom event, pointed out while speaking with THR, the Democrats have focused less time and attention on white men over the past 25 to 30 years.

This has been a gradual thing, Rocketto explained. A lot of that has to do with the fact that on the left, we often think in binaries. So either we go after white men or we go after women, people of color, Black women. And the answer is: We have to do both.

Of course, for decades, Democrats have pieced together a diverse and disparate coalition to win elections. White Dudes for Harris, Rocketto explains, sprung from him eyeing the success of Win With Black Women, which has been hosting Zoom meetings on Sunday nights for four years. The group was born out of the frustration many Black women felt in 2020 over the poor treatment of the field of Black hopefuls Biden had been eyeing for his veep pick. These Sunday Zoom meetings last for hours, as attendees strategize and find support; on July 20, the day Bidens campaign ended, the Win With Black Women Zoom raised upwards of $1.6 million for Harris.

Win With Black Womens founder, Jotaka Eaddy, told The Hollywood Reporter that its both powerful and wonderful to see the Sunday Zooms she started four years ago inspire and ignite so many different sections of the electorate into a grassroots movement for Harris  the only person, she explained, who Win With Black Women would have even entertained a conversation about stepping up after Bidens departure.



We welcome it. For so many years, Black women have always, as people have described, been the backbone of our communities and of the Democratic Party. Our voting block speaks volumes at 91 percent, she said. We are in a moment in this country where Black women are taking their rightful place in this country. But also, as Black women are in this space, we very much are doing it in a way that sets the table so everybody has a seat at the table.

Rooted in the unity seen with Win With Black Women, the White Dudes gathering was a massive success that brought in over $4 million. And from there, the Zoom movement has grown. There was the July 31 Latino Men for Harris gathering hosted by comic actor George Lopez. Then there was Comics for Kamala on Aug. 5, which brought dozens of comedy favorites together virtually to riff for Harris, with Nick Offermans barn-burner parody song Proud to be a Kamala Man (sung to the tune of God Bless the USA, aka Proud to Be an American) being a major highlight. At the same time, on a separate meeting, the Elders for Harris Zoom had Jane Fonda telling her age demo, Its not just because the orange man is terrible, its because Kamala is the leader we need right now. Coming up next: Cat Ladies for Harris, a call formed in reaction to a recent insult that GOP Vice Presidential candidate J.D. Vance hurled at Harris; Rural Americans for Harris; and yup, Deadheads for Harris, which takes place on the day of the late Grateful Dead frontmans birth.

Nearly a decade ago, Trump rose to political prominence, in part, by mastering the art of Twitter. Since understanding the mediums of the moment is central to campaigning  and mastering of them can spell victory  its become clear that in a matter of a week, 2024 is now The Zoom Election. A piece of videotelephony software, which during the COVID-19 pandemic brought feelings of unity for many (followed by fatigue), is now what Rocketto calls the new appointment television.

This is different from 2020. Because when the pandemic hit, people werent used to Zoom. They werent used to doing things through calls. Four years later, the idea of getting on Zoom, not having to leave your house, doesnt feel foreign to people anymore, he said. Theres still a time and a place for it. And I think this taps into something where hundreds of thousands of people are getting on at the same time to be in the same place, and even though people couldnt see each other, they felt like they were having a community experience.

While Team Trump has yet to move its campaign onto Zoom, it did find an inroad to livestreaming on Aug. 5 when the candidate appeared on the streaming platform Kick to speak with internet personality Adin Ross. The 23-year-old, who has interviewed contentious personalities like white supremacist Nick Fuentes and who frequently streams himself playing video games on his Kick page, helped Trump gain more than 580,000 views at one point during the stream. Whether this will lead to his campaign embracing the medium and format remains to be seen.

For its part, Zoom would be wise to keep up with public demand to attend these meetings. Last week, the companys engineers had to raise a meetings capacity to 200,000 for the first time when the White Women: Answer the Call 2024 meeting broke Zoom, as attendance swelled past the largest corporate package offered. Rocketto found an elegant solution for this dilemma for his White Dudes call when he simultaneously streamed the event on a YouTube page, pushing viewership to above 200,000; he told THR that another 450,000 have since viewed the Zoom there.

If sustained, the powerful sense of community that Rocketto says these Zoom meetings can provide could tip the truncated and still-nascent Harris campaign toward victory. Perhaps Zooms for Harris will be the MAGA rallies of 2024. While the Harris campaign may not be able to rely on the billions in free media attention that was aimed at those rallies, benefiting Trumps 2016 campaign, it will receive the funds that the Zoom meetings raise  it should be noted  without any involvement from her team.

The cash boost is already apparent: Just three Zoom events  White Dudes for Harris, Win With Black Women and White Women: Answer the Call  raised $16 million, helping to push her campaigns July haul to $310 million, more than doubling Trumps $138.7 for the same period. And, according to an NPR/PBS News/Marist poll released on Tuesday, Harris now holds a 51-48 percent national lead over Trump.

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An aircraft developer has just passed a milestone in its mission to change the way we travel. According to Electrek, Joby Aviation's electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) craft flew over 500 miles last month powered by hydrogen fuel cells and electric technology  and it still had power to spare.

Joby aims to assemble a fleet of air taxis that could be used to get from one part of a city to another or to travel regionally. The benefits range from obvious and immediate to more gradual and big-picture.

A benefit that everyone can get on board with is that these air taxis will save time. Traveling from New York City's JFK airport to Manhattan by car can take an hour, but only seven minutes in an air taxi.

Joby had previously tested an all-electric version of the craft in New York in 2023. That craft could only travel 100 miles on a single charge. Adding hydrogen fuel cell technology to the equation adds a lot of distance and changes the air taxis' capabilities.

"With our battery-electric air taxi set to fundamentally change the way we move around cities, we're excited to now be building a technology stack that could redefine regional travel using hydrogen-electric aircraft," Joby founder and CEO JoeBen Bevirt said. "Imagine being able to fly from San Francisco to San Diego, Boston to Baltimore, or Nashville to New Orleans without the need to go to an airport and with no emissions except water."

Besides saving time by not sitting in traffic or going through an airport, the big-picture benefits the hydrogen-electric crafts provide is the fact that they don't produce the same harmful pollutants that planes and many cars do, contributing to the warming of the planet along with health issues in humans. When hydrogen is burned for fuel, it only produces water vapor.

That said, creating and storing hydrogen fuel is not as simple as scooping up some water. It requires significant technology and energy, oftentimes requiring dirty fuel or diverting renewable energy that could otherwise feed the grid, so there are many environmentally-minded critics and skeptics.

It may take some years before hydrogen can gain wider acceptance as a truly cleaner fuel, but few would say the science is not worth exploring, especially because hydrogen-powered vehicles would not directly release pollution, which could lead to better breathable air in urban areas that use them.

Joby's hydrogen-electric air taxis are just another example of the innovations being made in air travel centered around hydrogen power. Early this year, aerospace experts in the UK designed a jet powered by hydrogen that can travel halfway around the world without refueling.

Even more recently, a startup unveiled plans for a VTOL craft that will run solely on hydrogen that could take the place of private jets and smaller commercial crafts.

The goal for Joby is for its air taxis to be used much like Uber is today. Each craft fits one pilot and four passengers. Joby has so far completed three of the five stages necessary for certification by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Joby is looking to begin commercial operations in the U.S. in 2025 and is currently scouting locations for future operations in England.

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.
It's been a long wait, but Proton VPN's anti-censorship Stealth protocol finally works on Windows. Proton VPN is also expanding its free service to 12 more countries and introducing an icon-customization feature for Android.

A VPN masks your web activity by routing your traffic through a remote, encrypted server. And while your ISP cannot decode VPN traffic, they can identify it with practically zero effortif someone's internet traffic is illegible, it's because they're using a VPN.

This isn't a problem in the United States or other countries where VPNs are legal. That said, most authoritarian regimes enforce some form of internet censorship that can only be bypassed by a VPN. And while these regimes may not explicitly ban VPN usage, they often retaliate against citizens who try to circumvent censorship, particularly in times of political or social unrest.

The Stealth protocol, which was previously limited to Android, iOS, and macOS, is now available on Windows. Proton VPN's Stealth protocol is designed to protect users who face internet censorship. It disguises VPN traffic as "normal" internet traffic, thereby preventing governments from identifying citizens who bypass censorship. This opens the door to more robust information-sharing and anti-authoritarian activity in countries that are under the thumb of internet censorship.

Proton

Interestingly, the Proton VPN Android app can now be disguised as a weather, notes, or calculator app. This may help users stay discreet while using Proton VPN in public.

Proton VPN is also expanding its free service to 12 additional countriesAfghanistan, Bahrain, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Yemen. These countries, which already enforce some level of internet censorship, are likely to increase censorship efforts if regional tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East.

Proton also notes that VPN signups have grown by 4,000% in Venezuela and 3,500% in Bangladesh. This is due to the former's "deeply flawed" election and the latter's violent response to student-led protests.

You can find a full list of supported countries at the Proton VPN website. For clarity's sake, I should point out that all Proton VPN users can access the Stealth protocol, and Proton VPN's free service is available in all countries, not just those under authoritarian rule. Also, Proton is expected to bring its VPN to Apple TV later this year.

Source: Proton
The mystery of why the most stable part of continents are actually uplifted is exposed. It has to do with an underlying geological force which also helps spur diamonds from below.

Drakensberg escarpment in Southern Africa. Credit: Prof Jean Braun, GFZ Potsdam

Researchers at the University of Southampton think they have unearthed one of the most enigmatic questions in structural geology - how, or why, seemingly stable continental lands rise.

The result of continental uplift and deformation can be seen in some of the most striking scenery on Earth; where many will think of the mountains of Switzerland or Scotland.

It is the contrasting landscapes of escarpments and plateaus that bring a unique drama to the landscape:

An escarpment is a long, steep slope, especially one at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at different heights by Oxford Languages. An example is The Niagara Escarpment. Another can be seen in the Losotho Highlands in South Africa at the Drakensberg escarpment, or at the country's Great Escarpment.

is a long, steep slope, especially one at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at different heights by Oxford Languages. An example is The Niagara Escarpment. Another can be seen in the Losotho Highlands in South Africa at the Drakensberg escarpment, or at the country's Great Escarpment. Plateaus are a sharp contrast to escarpments, by being a highland expanse of flat terrain. Also called a high plain or tableland, these flat features can be seen among mountains at the Massif Central - a highland region in France. There is also the Central Plateau of the Great Escarpment in South Africa's Lesotho Highlands.

Topographic Map of Asia. Tibetan Plateau is just massive! pic.twitter.com/wA4rp8WX0r  Epic Maps  (@Locati0ns) August 7, 2024

The discovery

The team found that when the tectonics break apart, as they do in the theory of tectonics, strong waves are sent deep into the Earth. These are a bit like shockwaves that trigger continental lands to rise further, which can be by over a kilometre extra height.

Led by the University of Southampton, the research published today in Nature examined the effects of global tectonic forces on landscape evolution over hundreds of millions of years.

Lead author, Professor Tom Gernon at Earth Science at the University of Southampton said: Scientists have long suspected that steep kilometre-high topographic features called Great Escarpments  like the classic example encircling South Africa  are formed when continents rift and eventually split apart."

The Lesotho Highlands in southern Africa, on the Central Plateau of the Great Escarpment. Credit: Prof Tom Gernon, University of Southampton.

"However, explaining why the inner parts of continents, far from such escarpments, rise and become eroded has proven much more challenging. Is this process even linked to the formation of these towering escarpments? Put simply, we didnt know.

The cratonic mystery

The mystery mainly lied in what is considered the most stable features of continents - cratons. These are defined as being a coherent domain of Earths continental crust that has maintained long-term stability - with little deformation over time. A glimpse o seen in India at UNESCO World Heritage Site Eastern Dharwar Craton.

The boulders in Hampi, India have the same composition as granite. They are a part of what is known as the Eastern Dharwar Craton. A Unesco World Heritage Site. pic.twitter.com/Hq0ydkOnTz  Neha Gupta (@nehaguptaphoto) April 23, 2024

Instead of being static, as expected, cratons move vertically upwards, even when very far away from the edges of continents where the continental tectonic break up occurs. The researchers in Southampton have dug up an explanation on why this is happening.

Associate professor Steve Jones at the University of Birmingham explained: What we have here is a compelling argument that rifting can, in certain circumstances, directly generate long-lived continental scale upper mantle convection cells, and these rift-initiated convective systems have a profound effect on Earths surface topography, erosion, sedimentation and the distribution of natural resources.

The same deep earth processes that drive continental uplift after they break apart also govern processes that spring up diamonds from Earth's interior.

It was discussed in the teams conclusion that the same mantle activity that can cause diamonds to ascend from Earths deep interior, are also helping to sculpt these landscapes. Prof. Gernon also provided food for thought on how altering the "core of continents" has had a wider effect on the environment and climate through too, where further scientific questions could be asked.

As a whole, this topic shows how active the earth system really is. Land, and the continents are not just static pieces of ground and rock layers, but instead, active systems, shaped by processes close and far away.

Source of the news:

Coevolution of craton margins and interiors during continental break-up (2024). Nature. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07717-1
This years Sziget Festival in Budapest will offer more than 1,000 programmes featuring performers including Kylie Minogue, Liam Gallagher and Martin Garrix, the organisers said on the eve of the opening.

The festival is taking place for the 30th time this year between August 7 and 12 at 50 venues. Based on sales so far, the organisers expect a full house for Martin Garrixs concert on Saturday and Fred again on Monday.



Visitors are expected to arrive from some 100 countries, mostly from the Netherlands, Britain, Ireland, Germany, France and Italy, the events chief organiser, Tamas Kadar, said.



The main stage will also feature concerts by Hungarian performers Beton.Hofi, Margaret Island and Azahriah.



A total of six hundred performers will be featured over six days, many of them arriving from the UK, France, Germany, Holland and the US, but some will come from Senegal, India, Tanzania, New Zealand and Benin.



The daily capacity of the festival grounds is 95,000 people, of which 10-15,000 are performers and staff, with the remaining 75,000-80,000 being ticketholders.



Kadar said the average price of food for sale on the festival grounds will be lower than last year and the price of drinks will be the same as last year in nominal terms.



The Sziget festival area will include several campsites and a medical centre offering services 24 hours a day with a total staff of 200 people.



Budapest Govt Office Tightening Inspections on Sziget Fesztival

The Government Office of Budapest is tightening inspections of Sziget Festival venues with the aim of ensuring the safety of festival-goers, the office said.



The inspections cover food, drinks, festival merchandise and clothes vendors as well as drinking water supply spots, toilets and waste management, the office said in a statement.



The offices labour officials are carrying out inspections of festival facilities construction, ensuring that labour regulations such as working hours and terms of employment are observed.



The office is also overseeing inspections of taxi drivers, their licenses and the condition of their cars, as well as the transparency of fees and taxi bills.



Meanwhile, Budapest police said on police.hu that coordinated action involving close to 100 police officers saw 29 people taken into custody in three downtown districts on Saturday evening on charges of drug possession, rowdyism, illegal driving and other crimes.



The Sziget Festival takes place between August 7 and 12.



Foreign Police Helping Hungarian Counterparts at Sziget Festival

Dutch police are helping their Hungarian counterparts at the Sziget Festival, a spokesman of the Budapest police headquarters said.



Dutch officers are not permitted to act independently but are helping Hungarian police, mainly with communications, Soma Csecsi told a press conference.



A large number of Dutch visitors are in Budapest attending the event. A Prevention Point has been set up on the festival grounds, mainly to assist people who lose their official documents, he said.



Plainclothes police are also deployed to prevent criminal activity and apprehend any criminal offenders, he added.



MTI Stock Photo - for illustrative purposes only



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New Delhi: Nawazuddin Siddiqui is set to portray the controversial Assamese Judge Upendra Nath Rajkhowa in his upcoming film. The project, confirmed and produced by his brother Faizuddin Siddiqui, will explore the dark and chilling events that led to Rajkhowa's arrest and execution for the brutal murder of his familya case that shocked and devastated the state of Assam.

Who is Upendra Nath Rajkhowa?

Upendra Nath Rajkhowa, a former district, and sessions Judge of Dhubri, gained notoriety for the horrific murder of his family members which shocked the state.

Faizuddin Siddiqui has confirmed the making of the film, which will delve into the events leading to Rajkhowa's arrest and execution, exploring his complex character. He said, "I was super intrigued by this story and I really wanted to be a part of such a film so I thought of going ahead and producing this film myself in my own production house and who better than my brother Nawazuddin Siddiqui to play the role of Upendra Nath Rajkhowa who is an Assamese judge. We all already know the versatility and range of Nawaz and I am delighted to announce this project with my brother

On the work front, Nawazuddin Siddiqui was recently seen playing a cop in Anand Surapurs directorial Rautu Ka Raaz. Up next, he will be seen in 'Oil Kumar', 'Adbhut', 'Noorani Chehra', and 'Sangeen'.
Teej 2024: In India and Nepal, ladies celebrate Teej, a colorful and exuberant holiday that heralds the start of the monsoon season. It's a time to feast, fast, and enjoy the holiday with loved ones. As important as the customary fasting is to the celebration, making and serving delectable food is also a must. Here are some delicious and simple snacks you can make for Teej 2024 at home.

Ghewar

A typical Rajasthani dessert that is especially well-liked during Teej is ghewar. Made with wheat, ghee, and sugar syrup, this disc-shaped treat is frequently garnished with shards of almond. Although making Ghewar at home might seem difficult, you can become an expert at this delicate dish with some practice. To create the batter, simply combine flour, ghee, and water. Deep fried the batter in ghee until it takes on the texture of a net. Lastly, coat it with sugar syrup and add some nuts as a garnish.

Ladoo Besan

Besan Ladoo is a straightforward but delectable dessert made with sugar, ghee, and gram flour. This is made by roasting gram flour in ghee until it becomes golden brown and smells nutty. Roll the mixture into spheres after thoroughly mixing in the cardamom powder and sugar. Not only are these ladoos a kid and adult favorite, but they're also quite simple to make.

Samosa

Samosas are a traditional Indian food that are very simple to prepare at home. Teej is best celebrated with samosas, which are crispy pastry pockets filled with a spicy potato concoction. To make them, mix flour, oil, and water to produce a dough, then stuff it with a mixture of peas, boiled potatoes, and spices. Fry till golden brown, then serve hot with chutney made with mint.

Kachori

Another delicious food that's ideal for Teej is kachoris. A spicy lentil mixture fills these deep-fried cakes. Grind soaked lentils with spices to make the filling, then pour the mixture into a dough made of wheat and water. The kachoris should be fried till crispy and golden.

Malpua

Malpua is a popular treat during festivals that resembles sweet pancakes. To create malpua, mix flour, milk, and sugar into a batter and cook it until it turns golden brown. After soaking the deep-fried malpuas in sugar syrup, serve them warm with chopped nuts on top.

Teej 2024 is the ideal time to enjoy these simple-to-make snacks with loved ones. These homemade sweets will make your celebrations happier and more flavorful as you celebrate the occasion.
New Delhi: The political crisis in Bangladesh has raised serious concerns regarding trade relationship between India and the neighboring state. While Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and is in the process of seeking political asylum, the country is waiting for an interim government to take over.

Bangladesh's tumultuous internal conflict has left the country's economic activities in a lurch, with a leading rating agency saying that Bangladesh crisis will have moderate impact on Indian industry.

A report by Acuite Ratings & Research Limited said that the impact of trade between both the countries might take a hit in the short term, however the overall impact on Indias trade and economy is not likely to be significant since the trade with Bangladesh (merchandise exports and imports) comprise only 1.2% of Indias aggregate trade volumes.

"Bangladesh is a major market for Indian yarn, accounting for 25-30% of the total yarn exports. If the crisis persists for a longer period, such exports which stood at USD 1.3 bn in FY24, may be negatively impacted. This may translate to lower realizations and margins in the export markets," said the report.

However, on the positive side, there could be opportunities for Indian fabric and garment manufacturers to increase their export market share amidst the ongoing stir in Bangladesh.

"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 Bangladesh textiles goods are the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. There can be a potential 1520% decline in RMG exports for the next summer season (JanuaryMarch 2025) due to recent disruptions and factory shutdowns. This can be both a short and a longer term opportunity for Indian garment exporters if the crisis doesnt dissipate in a short period of period," said the report.

The report highlighted that there could be challenges for the FMCG industry tough. "Many Indian FMCG companies have exposure to the Bangladesh market. The sector may experience some challenges, such as disruptions in supply chains, changes in consumer demand, and potential increases in costs due to the crisis. However, the overall effect will vary based on each companys exposure, diversification, and ability to adapt to changing conditions," it added.

Suman Chowdhury, Chief Economist and Head-Research, Acuite Ratings & Research said, "While Bangladesh is an important trade partner for India, the impact of the severe political crisis there will have a very limited impact on Indias overall trade volumes. The exports to Bangladesh account for only 2.5% of Indias total merchandise exports. However, specific industry segments where exports to that country constitute a large share such as cotton yarn, may witness a material impact in the near term; on the other hand, this can also be an opportunity for Indian RMG players who had lost export markets earlier to Bangladesh."

Chowdhury added, Indian manufacturing and infrastructure companies having business or project operations or supply linkages therein are likely to witness some disruption and uncertainty in the near term.

"Importantly, the current scenario may lead to deferment or slowdown of fresh investments by Indian companies in the neighbouring country pending the establishment of a stable government. The proposed FTA with Bangladesh will also be put on the backburner under the current circumstances, he said.
New Delhi: Worlds largest manufacturer of natural polished diamonds and Indias premier diamantaire, Kiran Gems has declared a 10-day holiday for its employees. The vacation scheduled from August 17-27 for its approximately 50,000 workers is part of an effort to manage output in the face of sharply declining worldwide demand and rising stocks.

The diamond manufacturing company has declared a 10-day holiday to control the output of diamonds, according to the chairman of Kiran Gems, Vallabhbhai Lakhani. The company had never made a move like this before, Lakhani told The Indian Express.

Globally, the cost of polished diamonds has decreased, making it more challenging for diamond manufacturers to stay in business. According to Lakhani, if supply is managed, demand will increase and the sector will profit.

Kiran Gems is among the largest exporters of polished diamonds. The diamond company employs a substantial workforce of over 50,000 diamond polishers. According to Lakhani, 40,000 employees cut and polish natural diamonds while 10,000 work in the lab-grown diamond unit. The company is also considering paying employees for the time off.

With an annual revenue of Rs 17,000 crore, the leading diamond company is also an authorized buyer from De Beers, a leader in the world diamond market. Notably, De Beers reported a 15% drop in rough diamond production in the second quarter compared to the first quarter of the 2024 fiscal year.
Amid the turmoil in Bangladesh, an unruly mob stormed a prison in the Sherpur district freeing over 500 inmates including some hundreds of dreaded terrorists. Many prisoners even looted guns while escaping the prison. This has increased the tensions of the forces guarding the Indian borders. While people affected by riots and arsons are heading towards India, the Border Security Force has increased its vigilance across the Bangladesh border.

The BSF has been directed to allow people to enter India only after verifying the documents. Many Indians are still trapped in Bangladesh and the current unrest poses a threat to their lives.

05.08.2024



Shri Daljit Singh Chawdhary,IPS,DG @BSF_India along with senior officers of @BSF_SOUTHBENGAL visited Floating BOP Sabarmati at T-junction and AOR of 118 BN BSF and reviewed riverine border management.#FirstLineOfDefence#JaiHind pic.twitter.com/p4XEAXv6Vh  BSF_SOUTH BENGAL: KOLKATA (@BSF_SOUTHBENGAL) August 5, 2024

Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF) Daljit Singh Chaudhary visited the Integrated Check Post (ICP) Petrapole and the highly sensitive Border Out Post Ranaghat of the 68th Battalion deployed on the Indo-Bangladesh border in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on Tuesday.

The primary objective of the visit was to assess the tactical and operational preparedness and deployment strategies of the BSF at these crucial locations, according to a press release from the BSF. Chaudhary was accompanied by Ravi Gandhi, Additional Director General of Eastern Command, and Maninder PS Pawar, Inspector General of the South Bengal Frontier.

The BSF DG held a meeting with BSF officers to review the situation in Bangladesh and discuss strategies to address illegal infiltration and smuggling. Chaudhary stressed the need for heightened vigilance and effective measures to tackle these challenges. He underlined the importance of border preparedness given the challenging conditions in Bangladesh and urged the officers and jawans to remain alert and prepared for any emerging situation.

This visit underlines the commitment of BSF to maintain strong security measures and operational efficiency in one of the most sensitive areas of the India-Bangladesh border, the BSF release added. (With agency inputs)
New Delhi: After an exchange of fire with terrorists yesterday evening, a search operation was launched by security forces in the Khaneed Area of Basantgarh in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir.

After receiving input regarding suspicious movement in the area, a SADO (search and destroy operation) was launched on Tuesday. Contact has been established with a group of terrorists in the Khaned area of Police Station Basantgarh in Udhampur District. The operation is currently underway.

DIG Udhampur Reasi Range Rayees Mohammad Bhat said, "For the last three to four days, we have been tracking the movement of terrorists in the Khaneed area of Basantgarh of Udhampur district. Yesterday, after specific input was gleaned regarding the movement of terrorists in the area, a SADO was launched in the wee hours by our parties."

"After around 4:30 pm, our contact was established with a group of terrorists yesterday and within two hours, the contact was established twice. A group of terrorists is present under our cordon and that is the reason we are conducting the second day of the search operation today. Our CRPF, police and Army are consistently present here. The group consists of three to four terrorists whom we are trying to neutralise as soon as possible," the DIG Udhampur Reasi Range stated further.

Elaborating on the geographical conditions of the area, he said, "This area has hilly terrain and dense coniferous forests. The weather these days is also cloudy and rainy. The conditions are foggy, which is why our visibility is limited."

Meanwhile, on August 6, 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 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.
New Delhi: The Modi-led government is set for the amendment of Waqf act, in the Lok Sabha under section 44. The proposed changes in the Waqf Act of 1995 include provisions to ensure representation for non-Muslim individuals and Muslim women in central and state Waqf bodies. It's also likely that the government may repeal the old Waqf Act and bring a new bill with the proposed amendments.

The proposed amendment is the mandatory registration of Waqf properties with the District Collector's office, facilitating proper evaluation and monitoring. Additionally, the amendments seek to promote inclusivity by ensuring women are represented on both the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf boards.

In 1995 the Wakf Act was passed to regulate 'auqaf' by a 'wakif' (the individual who dedicates the property). This legislation was last amended in 2013.

Proposed Amendments To The Waqf Act

The Central Waqf Council and state Waqf Boards will be required to include two women on their boards. The council will now comprise a Union Minister, three MPs, three representatives from Muslim organizations, and three experts in Muslim law. Additionally, it will include two judges from either the Supreme Court or a High Court, four individuals of national repute, and senior officials from the Union government. As a result, these changes required the creation of a non-Muslim category for the Council and Boards, as MPs and government officials cannot be nominated for bodies on a religious basis.

After the Amendments, notice is required before registering any property as Waqf and this registration must take place on a centralised website. The authority for surveying Waqf properties will now be given to the District Collector or their deputy. Additionally, there will also be a provision to lodge a High Court appeal within 90 days of the Board's decision.

In the new law, the funds received by the Waqf Board must be used for the welfare of widows, divorcees, and orphans, and this must be done by guidelines set by the government.
NEW DELHI: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) informed the Delhi High Court on Wednesday that it will communicate within two days its order cancelling former probationary Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Puja Khedkar's candidature to her. Noting the submissions of UPSC, Justice Jyoti Singh disposed of Khedkar's plea challenging the Commission's press release stating that her candidature has been dismissed.

"The petition is disposed of granting liberty to the petitioner to approach the appropriate forum in accordance with law. It is made clear that this court has neither entered into nor expressed any opinion on the merits of the case and the filing of the present petition will not come in the way of the appropriate forum in adjudicating the issue on merits," the court said.

The court asked Khedkar to give her address to the UPSC, and said the order be supplied to her physically and electronically. It also said that for other reliefs like challenge to the cancellation order, Khedkar will have to go to the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT). During the hearing, senior advocate Indira Jaising, appearing for Khedkar, said the cancellation order was never communicated to her and she came to know about it only through the press release.

On being asked by the court as to why she has not approached CAT with her challenge, Khedkar's lawyer said since she was not served with the official order by UPSC, the plea was moved before the high court impugning the press release. Senior advocate Naresh Kaushik, representing UPSC, said the order will be communicated by the Commission to Khedkar within two days on her email id as well as her last known address.

On July 31, the UPSC cancelled Khedkar's candidature and debarred her from future exams. She was accused of 'misrepresenting information' in her application for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, 2022. Khedkar was also accused of cheating and wrongly availing of OBC and disability quota benefits.

On August 1, a trial court here had denied her anticipatory bail, saying these are serious allegations that "require a thorough investigation".
TEGUCIGALPA, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- On June 28, 2009, a military coup took place in Honduras, forcing then-President Manuel Zelaya to step down. For nearly half a year afterward, the political situation in Honduras remained turbulent.

Zelaya, also a presidential advisor, told Xinhua that many of the 20th-century political coups in Latin America and the Caribbean were related to the interests of American multinational corporations.

"I once asked a U.S. senior official if the United States had a manual for instigating coups. He told me there wasn't just one manual, but four manuals for instigating coups, and one is currently being prepared," Zelaya said.

At the end of 2021, Xiomara Castro, wife of Zelaya, was elected as the first female president in the history of Honduras. After taking office, Castro began to change the oligarchic political situation supported by external forces.

Despite persistent pressure from the United States, the government of Honduras showed resilience and formally forged diplomatic ties with China in March 2023. During her visit to China three months later, Castro said Honduras firmly supports and abides by the one-China principle, and firmly believes that friendly cooperation with China will bring Honduras more and better development opportunities.

"Cooperating with China not only contributes to the economic development of Honduras, but also reflects its independence and autonomy in the new international order," said Allan Fajardo, an academic from the National Autonomous University of Honduras.

Castro has pledged to strengthen regional integration and democracy, and advocate for the construction of a more just, equitable and prosperous region. Honduras has actively spoken out against external interference in the Haitian crisis and mediated the diplomatic dispute between Ecuador and Mexico.

Zelaya believed Castro's election as the first female president of Honduras and the decision to establish diplomatic relations with China "means the creation of a new era."

"Our country is actively participating in the development of the Global South," said Zelaya.

Sandra Deras, CEO of Nana Banana Honduras, highlighted the transition from American-owned banana fields to a majority of Honduran-operated businesses in over 50,000 hectares of banana plantations in Honduras. "We are the owners of this land, the owners of banana planting resources, and we always prioritize the interests of the Honduran people," Deras said.

Currently, most of the bananas produced by the company target domestic market demands. Deras emphasized that planting one hectare of bananas can provide employment opportunities for two families, and that as a developing country, Honduras needs to create more job opportunities to prevent immigration to the United States.

Today, Honduras is pursuing new development opportunities and international status by collaborating with the Global South, which marks a step forward from the so-called "banana republic" towards a more independent and diversified nation, said Fajardo. 
A man who is currently charged with first-degree murder in connection with two related stabbing incidents in downtown Winston-Salem on April 30 pleaded guilty to breaking into a Winston-Salem church to steal pocketknives months before he was arrested for murder, court documents show.

Oscar Daniel Noyola-Lopez, 27, is currently charged with the murder of Jamar Dewan Wiley, 38, of Williamsburg Road, whom Winston-Salem police accuse Noyola-Lopez of stabbing in the chest. Noyola-Lopez is also charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill in connection with the second stabbing of Nicolas Miguel Kea, 26, of Kernersville.

Police say Noyola-Lopez stabbed Kea in the left arm on North Patterson Avenue about 15 minutes after Noyola-Lopez is accused of stabbing Wiley. Kea sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Another man, Jeffrey Hugo Silva, 30, of Broad Street, was arrested with Noyola-Lopez and has been charged with felony accessory after the fact as well as felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill or inflicting serious injury.

Police claim in an arrest warrant for Silva that Silva drove Noyola-Lopez in a Chevrolet Tahoe and commanded Lopez to commit the alleged assaults.

In a search warrant, police claim they used video surveillance from the departments real time crime center to identify Noyola-Lopez as the subject in the footage who stabbed Wiley and drove away in a Chevrolet Tahoe with Silva.

According to the search warrant, officers later found the Chevrolet Tahoe at 584 Northwest Blvd. after the stabbing incidents, with Noyola-Lopez and Silva in the car.

In their search of the Tahoe, police state in the search warrant that they found a black folded knife which had blood on the blade.

Silvas attorney, Alan Doorasamy, declined to comment on the case, while Noyola-Lopezs attorney, Charlene Nelson, couldnt be reached for comment.

When asked if the suspects arrested by police had any relation to Wiley or Kea, Annie Sims, a spokesperson for the police department, said that police could not definitively say.

Court documents show that Noyola-Lopez had been accused of attacking others years before he was arrested for murder, and in one case was charged with repeatedly stabbing a woman and a man with a razor blade in 2022.

Noyola-Lopez was also charged in years leading up to 2021 with physical assault against members of his own family.

In a motion that questioned Noyola-Lopezs capacity to go to trial for the assault charges in 2021, his former attorney Erin Woodrum said that it was difficult to have a coherent conversation with Noyola-Lopez and reported that his sisters told her that he was suffering from untreated schizophrenia.

Eventually, Noyola-Lopez was found to be incapable of proceeding to trial after a forensic evaluation and the case was dismissed by District Court Judge Lawrence Fine.

Similarly, the case against Noyola-Lopez for stabbing the woman and the man with a razor blade in 2022 was dismissed after he received another forensic evaluation which found again that he didnt have the capacity to go to trial.

The forensic evaluator, Melissa Johnson, wrote to District Court Judge Valene McMasters in February 2023 that Noyola-Lopez had theories that CIA kidnappers were attempting to abduct him and that when he had not received medication for schizophrenia he had commanders.

Both mental evaluations of Noyola-Lopez contained his strong beliefs about his family situation. In the February 2023 evaluation, Noyola-Lopez said that he moved to North Carolina at the age of 7 where he grew up with a foster family who spoke Spanish and were racists.

In the same evaluation, Noyola-Lopez said there was a lot of social services involvement with his family, while in a 2021 assessment by his attorney, Noyola-Lopez said obsessively that he believed he was adopted due to the skin color of his parents, and that this belief of his had strained his family.

In the 2023 evaluation, Johnson asked Noyola-Lopez questions about court and assessed his understanding of judicial processes. Noyola-Lopez could not understand what a defendant was, Johnson reported, and was unable to communicate understanding of the idea of a plea bargain and only responded Take it.

More than seven days before he was arrested for first-degree murder, Noyola-Lopez took a guilty plea in a case where he was accused of breaking into Centenary United Methodist Church on 646 W. 5th St. months earlier, in November of 2023.

Indictments state that Noyola-Lopez stole multiple pocketknives, two TVs, hand tools, and other property with a value of around $1,200 from the church building.

In exchange for a guilty plea, Forsyth County prosecutors agreed not to pursue a habitual breaking and entering charge against Noyola-Lopez, who had already been convicted of two felony breaking and entering charges in years prior.

Instead, prosecutors consolidated the charges against Noyola-Lopez into a single probation sentence of 24 months. The conditions of his probation were to comply with an entry/exit regiment with the Bethesda Center for the Homeless on North Patterson Avenue for a 90 day time period.

If Noyola-Lopez didnt report an address within the 90 days, he would violate his probation sentence.

Representatives from the Bethesda Center did not respond to questions about Noyola-Lopezs regiment.

Noyola-Lopez is now scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 8 to address the charge of first-degree murder and assault, while Silva is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 27. Both are being held in the Forsyth County jail with a $300,000 bond and a $400,000 bond, respectively.
New Delhi: Congress leader Salman Khurshid stated on Thursday that the situation in Bangladesh could occur in India as well, even if everything may look normal on the surface.

While speaking at the launch of academician Mujibur Rehman's book Shikwa-e-Hind former Union minister said,c"Everything may look normal in Kashmir. Everything may look normal here. We may be celebrating the victory, although of course some people believe that that victory or that success of 2024 was perhaps only marginal, perhaps a lot more needs to be done," PTI reported.

Khurshid further stated that Bangladesh's situation can also happen in our country.

"What's happening in Bangladesh can happen here... The spread in our country prevents things blowing up in the manner in which they've blown up in Bangladesh," he said.

Bangladesh has been shaken by waves of violent anti-government protests since mid-July, which led to Sheikh Hasina being compelled to resign and flee the country.



Reacting to Congress leader Salman Khurshid's statement, BJP's Shehzad Poonawalla said that this is another instance of the Congress Party putting 'Rajneeti' over "Rashtraneeti.

"The Congress Party says that it stands with the government of India as far as the issue of Bangladesh is concerned because this is not a political issue. No politics should be done on it. But leaders like Salman Khurshid try to provoke and incite the people of India, saying that whatever happened in Bangladesh, the violence that took place there can take place in India too," BJP leader said.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday overturned the MP Waqf Board's claim over historic monuments. The court humorously questioned, "Why not claim the Taj Mahal as Waqf property? Tomorrow you might say the entire India is Waqf property," while rejecting the MP Waqf Board's assertion of ownership over Burhanpur Fort, which covers approximately 4.448 hectares. The court declared, "The MP Waqf Board has no right over three Mughal-era properties in Madhya Pradesh."

The High Court dismissed the MP Waqf Board's order that sought ownership of notable historical monuments in the Burhanpur district, including the tombs of Shah Shuja and Nadir Shah. On July 19, 2013, the MP Waqf Board had proclaimed the Tomb of Shah Shuja, Tomb of Nadir Shah, Bibi Sahib's Masjid, and a palace within Burhanpur Fort as its property.

The Archaeological Survey of India contested this order, asserting that these monuments were under its protection as properties of the central government, safeguarded under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1904.

Justice GS Ahluwalia of the single bench stated on July 26, "The property in question is an ancient and protected monument officially recognized under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1904, and thus, the CEO of the MP Waqf Board committed a significant illegality by ordering the petitioner to vacate it."

The High Court annulled the MP Waqf Board CEO's order dated July 19, 2013.

The court acknowledged, "There are various ancient monuments and archaeological sites under the protection and conservation of the petitioner (ASI) across the country, which are the glorious heritage of the nation's ancient times and history."

It further recognized, "The Tomb of Shah Shuja, Tomb of Nadir Shah, and Bibi Sahib's Masjid at the Fort of Burhanpur are also ancient and protected monuments."
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, condemned the violence and selective targeting of Hindus in Bangladesh and emphasized the need for unity to protect Sanatan Dharma. He said that the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya represents not the end goal but a significant milestone. During his visit to Ayodhya, he paid homage to Brahmalin Paramhans Ramchandra Das, the inaugural president of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, on his 21st death anniversary and unveiled a statue in his honor.

Addressing the unrest in Bangladesh following the resignation of Sheikh Hasina after prolonged anti-government protests, Adityanath said, "Today, all the neighbours of India are burning. Temples are being demolished. Hindus are being selectively targeted and even then we are not trying to find those layers of history as to why such an unfortunate situation has arisen there."

"We should remember that the society that does not learn from the mistakes of history, its bright future is also eclipsed. There is a need to work together again to deal with the threat to Sanatan Dharma. There is a need to fight together for this," he added.

He also spoke about the significance of the Ram temple's construction, a culmination of a 500-year wait, as a milestone that propels the campaigns fueled by the strength of Sanatan Dharma. Adityanath advocated for the creation of a society devoid of casteism, untouchability, and discrimination, principles Lord Shri Ram championed throughout his life.

The chief minister laid a floral tribute at Das' memorial, joined by devotees and dignitaries, including Uttar Pradesh minister Surya Pratap Shahi, to honor Das' legacy as a key figure in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. The tribute took place at the memorial located at Saryu Ghat/Ramkatha Park.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Uttar Pradesh minister Surya Pratap Shahi, and Mahant Suresh Das. Adityanath also visited Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra chief Nritya Gopal Das Maharaj and enquired about his wellbeing.
Weather Update: Parts of Delhi experienced rainfall on Wednesday morning, with the minimum temperature dropping to 26.4 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather forecast predicts mostly cloudy skies with light to moderate rain and thunderstorms throughout the day. The maximum temperature in Delhi is expected to reach around 32 degrees Celsius.

The IMD's orange alert for August 7 predicts heavy showers in Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya. Very heavy rainfall is forecasted in Himachal Pradesh on August 7 and 10, in Uttar Pradesh on August 7, and in Uttarakhand on August 7, 9, and 10.

In Himachal Pradesh, light to moderate rainfall is likely to continue in several districts, with isolated spells of intense rainfall in the next 2 to 3 hours. Heavy rainfall in Shimla and other parts of the state has disrupted daily life, with 85 roads, including two national highways, closed due to landslides and excessive rain. Additionally, 116 electricity supply schemes and 65 water supply schemes have been disrupted. A catastrophic cloudburst occurred in the Lahaul and Spiti districts on August 1.

Authorities have urged residents and tourists in Himachal Pradesh to take necessary precautions and stay updated on weather advisories. Heavy rainfall is also likely in Madhya Pradesh on August 7 and 8, in Chhattisgarh on August 7, in Goa until August 11, in Maharashtra until August 12, and in the Gujarat region over the next two days. In Pune and Satara districts, an orange alert has been issued, while a yellow alert is in place for some districts in Vidarbha and Konkan.

The IMD also forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall in Assam and Meghalaya until August 12, and in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura until August 10. The Central Meteorological Department has indicated heavy rain in only two districts in Kerala today, with Wayanad expected to see reduced rainfall intensity in the coming days. However, isolated rainfall will continue across all districts.
Air India Flight - Dhaka To Delhi: Amid the chaos and violence in Bangladesh, Air India brought 205 people, including six infants, from Dhaka to New Delhi on Wednesday morning. It operated a chartered flight with an A321 neo aircraft, which took off for Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, late Tuesday. It brought back 205 people -- 199 adults and 6 infants -- from Dhaka to Delhi, an official said.

Air India operated the flight from the national capital, which took off without any passengers at very short notice, despite infrastructure challenges at the airport there, said the official familiar with the developments.

Starting Wednesday, Air India will commence its scheduled operations, offering two daily flights from the national capital to Dhaka. On Tuesday, Air India had cancelled its morning flight but operated the evening flight to Dhaka.

Vistara and IndiGo will also continue their scheduled services to Dhaka. Vistara operates daily flights from Mumbai and three weekly flights from Delhi to Dhaka. IndiGo typically operates one daily flight from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to Dhaka, as well as two daily flights from Kolkata.

Both airlines had canceled their flights to Dhaka on Tuesday due to the unrest in Bangladesh. The neighboring country has plunged into uncertainty following street protests over job quotas, which led to Sheikh Hasina's quit as prime minister and subsequent flight from the country.

Bangladesh has witnessed a whirlwind of events in the past few days. Sheikh Hasina, who governed the country for 15 years, resigned as 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.

(Inputs- PTI)
Nepal Helicopter Crash: A helicopter carrying five people -- four passengers and a pilot -- crashed in a forest near Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, on Wednesday. All five people on board were killed in the crash, as confirmed by a local official. The bodies have been recovered from the site. All four passengers were Chinese nationals, and the pilot was a Nepali national.

According to the media reports, On August 7, 2024, at 1:54 PM local time, Air Dynasty's helicopter with registration number 9N-AJD took off from Kathmandu Airport, heading to Rasuwa District with four Chinese nationals on board.

Just three minutes into the flight, the helicopter lost contact with Kathmandu Tower and was later confirmed to have crashed at Surya Chaur in Shivpuri Rural Municipality, Ward No. 7.

Upon receiving news of the accident, Prabhu Helicopter Company's 9N-ANL helicopter was immediately dispatched to the crash site for rescue operations.
New Delhi: Social media sensation Anjali Arora who shot to fame with her rendition of the viral Kacha Badam video has now recreated Stree 2's popular dance number 'Aaj Ki Raat' featuring the very gorgeous Tamannaah Bhatia. Anjali posted the video on Instagram and looks super hot wearing a maroon off-shoulder crop top and mermaid skirt.

Anjali Arora's Viral Dance Video

Anjali Arora can be seen wearing a waistband accessory adding to her look. Watch her dance moves here:

Stree 2 is a comedy horror film directed by Amar Kaushik and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Jyoti Deshpande under the banner of Maddock Films and Jio Studios. A sequel to Stree (2018), the movie stars Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, alongside Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Banerjee and Aparshakti Khurana in lead roles.

Who Is Anjali Arora?

Anjali is reportedly dating Akash Sansanwal with whom she often shares photos online. Anjali Arora was first seen in Lock Upp - a reality show hosted by Kangana Ranaut and produced by Ekta Kapoor. Digital content creator shot to fame with her dance video of the Kacha Badam song.

However, she made headlines for an alleged MMS viral clip which surfaced online sometime back. The private video went viral and many assumed that the girl in it is Anjali, however, looks like that's not the case. Later, Anjali Arora while talking to Siddharth Kanan, spoke about it. She revealed such things affect her and her family.

The buzz is that Anjali is in talks to star in a mythological movie.
Washington: The 32-year-old actress, nominated for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in 'Only Murders in the Building', shared her insights with The Hollywood Reporter.

Gomez disclosed that Martin and Short sent her a bouquet of flowers to celebrate her achievement.

"I received flowers from Martin Short and Steve Martin," she told the Hollywood Reporter.

"I'm in LA, Marty's always all over the world, and Steve is in New York. So, obviously, we can't be together, but we'll celebrate when we get back together again," she added.

Reflecting on the nomination, Gomez described it as "crazy" and expressed her gratitude for being part of a show that received such recognition.

"I was just honoured to be on such a show that was recognised. I feel so lucky, because there are so many great shows, and to even be considered, to have an opportunity like this, is such an honour," she said, adding, "In my mind, I feel like I already won."

In a recent Instagram post, Gomez shared a nostalgic photo of herself with Martin, 78, and Short, 74, as she approached her 32nd birthday on July 22.

She wrote, "Upon reflection, I realise with my birthday coming up, 32, I am so grateful that I have been surrounded by human beings that make me better, challenge me, remind me day after day that every moment is a gift."

She added, "That's my pure joy. I thank God for the era I'm in. It's been the best yet."

Earlier this year, Martin and Short praised Gomez's talents and work ethic in an interview with People magazine.

"I think it just gets deeper and deeper and deeper," Short remarked about their friendship with Gomez.

"She is so lovely as a human, she's so remarkable as a talent, and she just has an aura and this lovely spirit. Our friendship grows and grows," he added.

Martin also highlighted Gomez's professionalism, saying, "We didn't really know Selena, we didn't know what we're getting into." Martin said.

"I knew she has a fabulous personality, she's very smart. But she is never late." Short concurred, noting the importance of punctuality in their profession.

"And that's a very big deal when you're making a movie," Martin said, adding, "She is on the mark... We all march down the steps together. It's fabulous. But it gives you an insight into her own personality and professionalism."

'Only Murders in the Building' season 4 is set to premiere on August 27 on Hulu.
New Delhi: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that minimum account balance rules do not apply to PM Jan Dhan and basic saving accounts.

Minimum account balance rule does not apply to PM Jan Dhan accounts and basic savings accounts. It applies only to those bank accounts where customers are required to maintain a certain minimum balance in their accounts, the Finance Minister said in response to a question in Rajya Sabha on the penalty of Rs 8,500 crore collected by public sector banks in the last five years for non-maintenance of minimum balance in bank accounts by customers.

The government banks that charged fines for not maintaining minimum balance include Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Punjab and Sind Bank, Union Bank of India Bank, UCO Bank, Indian Bank, Canara Bank, Bank of Maharashtra and Central Bank of India.

Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary had told the Lok Sabha last month that public sector banks have collected a fine of Rs 2,331 crore in FY24 for not maintaining minimum balance.

This amount was 25 per cent more than the amount from last year, the MoS said.

In the financial year 2023-24, a penalty of Rs 633 crore was collected by Punjab National Bank, Rs 386 crore by Bank of Baroda and Rs 369 crore by Indian Bank for non-maintenance of minimum balance.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (Jan Dhan or PMJDY), the Union governments financial inclusion plan, envisages at least one basic banking account per household, improved financial literacy, and access to credit, insurance, and pension facilities.

Launched in 2014, PMJDY accounts are now about 23 per cent of India's total savings accounts by number.

According to PIB data, a total of 52.81 crore Jan Dhan accounts with a deposit balance of Rs. 2,30,792 crores have been opened as of 19.07.2024 under PMJDY.

Out of the same, 29.37 crores (55.6 per cent) Jan Dhan accounts belong to women and about 35.15 crore (66.6 per cent) PMJDY accounts have been opened in rural and semi-urban areas.
BSNL 5G Trial Live: After Jio, Airtel, and VI increased the prices of their mobile recharge plans, BSNL is now becoming more active to give tough competition to private telecom operators. BSNL is working on improving its services across the country. According to reports, BSNL has made 15,000 new 4G towers live nationwide.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced that 80,000 towers would be installed by the end of October, with an additional 21,000 to be completed by March next year. Hence, the one lakh towers of the 4G network will be installed by March 2025. He also highlighted that 5G can be utilized on the existing 4G core, and efforts are being made to modify the towers accordingly for 5G services.

In the major development, India's telecom startups and companies have begun discussions with the government telecom company BSNL to conduct live 5G trials. These trials may start in about one to three months and will also focus on private networks (CNPN).

All the developments in the technology cause tension for Jio and Airtel, as they are currently the only providers of 5G services in India. If BSNL enters the market, then it will give tough competition to Jio and Airtel. Hence, these telecom operators may lose their customers.

Which Cities Will Have 5G?

This project will primarily use the 700 MHz band available to BSNL and is proposed to be conducted in locations such as Connaught Place in Delhi, government offices and campuses in Bangalore, around the Sanchar Bhawan and JNU campus in the national capital, IIT Delhi, parts of Chennai, India Habitat Centre or parts of Gurgaon, IIT Hyderabad campus, and other areas.

Live 5G Trial

The Director General of the Voice of Indian Communication Technology Enterprises (VoICE), R.K. Bhatnagar, said, "BSNL is ready to provide spectrum, towers, battery/power supply, and other infrastructure. Now, they want live 5G trials that can be used by the general public."

VoICE is an organization that includes many Indian telecom companies. Some of the major companies involved are Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Tejas Networks, VNL, United Telecoms, Coral Telecom, and HFCL. These companies work together and support each other.

Companies Proposals For 5G Project In India

Several Indian companies like Lekha Wireless, Galore Networks, Wellmeni, W4S Labs, Suktha Consulting, Coral Telecom, Amantya Technologies, VVDN, Bharat RAN Consortium, Signaltron, and Resonon have proposed conducting these trials.

These companies will work on areas such as voice, video, and data services based on 5G or 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), network slicing tests, Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX), and easy communication on mobile phones.

How To Order BSNL 4G, 5G SIM Online

Step 1: Go to https://prune.co.in/

Step 2: Click on Buy SIM card and select India.

Step 3: Choose your operator, BSNL, and select your FRC plan.

Step 4: Enter all the required details and the OTP.

Step 5: Add your address and follow the on-screen instructions.

Notably, the SIM card will be delivered within the next 90 minutes with on-the-spot activation and doorstep KYC. Currently, this service is available for BSNL in Haryana (Gurugram) and Uttar Pradesh (Ghaziabad).
Jonathan Sidden and Walter Johnson work so closely together at Parkland High School that they share the same office.

At a news conference on Tuesday to announce some of the changes to the 2024-25 school year, the men even wore the same T-shirt, emblazoned with a Mustang and the slogan, The Promised Land!

These two are pretty incredible, the way they work together, Superintendent Tricia McManus said. They argue less than my marriage. Thats not always common when people work together. Its shared leadership.

After a few high-profile incidents that happened within weeks of each other last spring cast the school in a negative light, McManus decided, with the backing of the school board, to try a new approach to the schools leadership team, one that, as far as anyone can recall, has not been tried in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.

Sidden and Johnson are co-principals, a move made possible when Principal Noel Keener announced she was leaving to take a job at Guilford County Schools, after little more than two years on the job. Keeners announcement came as the school was dealing with the aftermath of the incidents, leading people to wonder what has going on at Parkland.

In announcing the co-principals in June, McManus said that the school has unique needs, which called for a unique response.

On Tuesday, McManus said that the incidents that happened  a student twice slapping a teacher and a gun discharging and striking a student, causing minor injuries  created a perception that does not reflect the good things happening at the school.

Theyve had some things that have created this narrative that is actually really not true, but that has created challenges, McManus said.

Though rare, the co-principal model has been used elsewhere, she said. When she was a principal in Florida, McManus she said she often wished she could clone herself.

In a perfect world, with endless money, this would be a great model everywhere. The job of a principal is the most complex, time-consuming, challenging job, she said. We want Parkland to achieve the excellence we know it can achieve.

Both Sidden and Johnson have ties to the school. Sidden is a 1990 graduate of the school and, as a teacher there, helped start the international baccalaureate program, which is a rigorous course of study that results in a special, highly regarded diploma. Parkland is the only high school in the district that offers the IB diploma.

Johnson was formerly an assistant principal at Parkland.

Longtime friends who say they are also like-minded, Sidden and Johnson said they plan to share, rather than divvy up, responsibilities.

We share everything. We dont split anything up. Any decision made will be by the both of us, Johnson said.

The two of them can also spread out within the school, making themselves available for teachers and students, Sidden said.

We need our kids to understand that they have the two of us to rely on, he said.

One of the goals of the co-principals is to instill a dose of positivity into the students, many of whom found themselves defending their school after the incidents last spring.

The first day of school is Aug. 12.

The students in this building can lift the face of this world if the public will allow them. There are 2,000 people in this building, and if theres an incident in this building, its one incident out of 2,000, Sidden said. Were looking to plant seeds that they are movers and shakers in their communities.

PHOTOS: WS/FCS Press Conference to share what's new for the school year
In Bangladesh, the violence continues even after the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government. The violent mob is not only attacking Hindus but also the Awami League leaders. Twenty leaders of the Awami League have been found dead across Bangladesh following the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from the country. Parts of the Awami League's main office in Dhaka were set on fire again on Tuesday, after an initial blaze at 12:30 PM on Monday.

Eyewitnesses reported that a mob set fire to the house of former councillor Md Shah Alam in Comilla city, approximately 100 km from Dhaka. The violent protests were sparked by student opposition to a job quota system favouring the children of freedom fighters. Hindus have also been targeted during these protests. The majority-Muslim mobs have primarily targeted Awami League leaders and minority communities, including Hindus.

Reports of widespread vandalism and looting of homes and businesses belonging to Awami League leaders and activists have surfaced across the country. In a separate incident, four people were killed when a mob set fire to the house of MP Shafiqul Islam Shimul. The bodies from the arson attack on MP Shafiqul Islam Shimul's house were found in various rooms and on balconies.

The ongoing unrest reflects escalating violence and instability in the nation as protests continue.

Amid the political unrest in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh has said that it continues to remain operational and released helpline numbers for Indian nationals who reside there. According to sources, the diplomats and officials of the Indian High Commission continue to remain in Bangladesh, while non-essential staff and their families returned on Wednesday morning.

The sources said, "To reiterate all the helplines of HCI Dhaka are working. The helpline numbers are being shared again below for reference: +8801958383679 +8801958383680 +8801937400591."
New Delhi: Days after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister, Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh will take oath on Thursday, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said.

While addressing a press conference on Wednesday, General Waker said that the interim government is likely to be sworn in by Muhammad Yunus at 8:00 pm on Thursday, August 8, PTI reported.

He further added that the advisory council may have 15 members.

Yunus, the 84-year-old economist and former MD of the Grameen Bank was appointed as the head of interim government by President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday, just one day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amid deadly protests against her government over a controversial job quota system.
Days after Sheikh Hasina resigned as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami are set to form an interim government which will work on the aid and advice of the social entrepreneur, banker, economist and civil society leader Muhammad Yunus. The former MD of the Grameen Bank has reportedly agreed to head the interim government. Muhammad Yunus will serve as the chief adviser of the interim government, according to a press release from Bangabhaban yesterday. The decision followed a meeting on the formation of the interim government between key organizers of the anti-discriminatory movement and President Mohammed Shahabuddin. The heads of the three armed forces also attended the meeting.

Meanwhile, it has been decided that the national elections will be held in Bangladesh after three months, once the situation returns to normal in the protest-hit nation. It's not clear whether Hasina's Awami League will participate in the polls or get banned by the interim government. Since Hasina is likely to retire, it will be important to see who will head the Awami League after her.

Meanwhile, the BNP will be holding a show of strength rally today in which former PM and party chief Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman, who is also the vice chairman of the BNP, will take part in the rally.

Since the Hasina government banned the Jamaat-e-Islami in 2013, the Islamic party is likely to see its status restored and may participate in the upcoming general elections. The Jamaat-e-Islami, founded in 1975, is one of the largest Islamist parties in the country. It has previously formed alliances with the BNP.

Meanwhile, the unrest continues in Bangladesh with radical Islamic protestors not only attacking the Hindu minorities but also destroying the government properties. Those affected by violence are gathering near the India-Bangladesh border to enter Indian territory. The Border Security Force is on high alert and has been ordered to let people in only after thorough verification of the documents.

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.
The majestic giants of nature, and glaciers subtly sculpt the ecosystems and landscapes they inhabit. Not only are these icy marvels incredibly stunning, but they also act as important markers of climate change. Here, we look at 13 of the most beautiful glaciers on Earth, each of which provides a different perspective on the calming impact of ice.

Argentina's Perito Moreno Glacier

One of the few glaciers in the world that is advancing is Perito Moreno, which is situated in the Los Glaciares National Park. It is a well-liked tourist and adventure attraction because of its stunning blue ice and commanding presence.

Iceland's Vatnajokull Glacier

Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Europe, occupies about 8% of Iceland. The glacier is home to breathtaking glacial lagoons, ice caves, and volcanoes that combine to create a bizarre scene that mesmerizes tourists.

Switzerland's Jungfrau-Aletsch Glacier

The greatest glacier in the Alps is the Jungfrau-Aletsch Glacier, which is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers serene surroundings and amazing views of the neighboring peaks and vast ice fields.

New Zealand's Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers

Because of their closeness to the coast, these South Island twin glaciers are unlike any other. The neighboring rainforests and their splendor can be experienced by hikers or by helicopter tours.

Canada's Athabasca Glacier

Athabasca Glacier is conveniently reachable from the Icefields Parkway and is situated in the Canadian Rockies. To understand more about the glacier's significance and history, visitors can either walk on it or go on a guided tour.

Alaska's Hubbard Glacier

Hubbard Glacier, one of North America's longest tidewater glaciers, is renowned for its magnificent calving episodes, in which enormous chunks of ice break off and fall into the ocean, producing a plethora of sights and sounds.

Glacier Baltoro, Pakistan

Access to some of the highest peaks on Earth, including K2, is made possible by the Baltoro Glacier, which is located in the Karakoram Range. Trekkers and mountaineers find refuge in this area due to its untamed landscape and isolated position.

France's Mer de Glace

The Mont Blanc Massif is home to Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in France. It is a well-liked tourist and outdoor enthusiast attraction because of its breathtaking ice formations and easily accessible hiking routes.

India's Siachen Glacier

One of the world's highest battlegrounds is Siachen Glacier, which is situated in the eastern Karakoram Range. It is a unique and fascinating area despite its difficult conditions because of its pure beauty and strategic relevance.

Antarctica's Lambert Glacier

Lambert Glacier is the longest glacier in the world, spanning more than 250 miles. It is a representation of the frozen wildness of the earth due to its enormous size and isolated location in Antarctica.

Alaska's Glacier Bay

Glacier Bay National Park, which is home to many glaciers, provides an amazing combination of ice, sea, and wildlife. In addition to the varied marine species that calls the area home, visitors can see tidewater glaciers calving.

Alaska's Columbia Glacier

Columbia Glacier, one of the world's fastest-moving glaciers, is renowned for its spectacular icebergs and quick retreat. The dynamic nature of the glacier produces a landscape that is ever-changing.

The New Zealand glacier Tasman

Tasman Glacier, New Zealand's largest glacier, provides breathtaking vistas of the Southern Alps. Travelers can trek the nearby trails for expansive views or take a boat tour around the glacier.

These 13 glaciers serve as a stark reminder of the planet's fleeting beauty in addition to being natural marvels. It is essential to value and preserve these icy behemoths so that future generations can continue to be in awe of them as climate change continues to affect them.
The US Justice Department has charged a Pakistani man Asif Merchant, allegedly linked to the Iranian government, with plotting political assassinations in the United States, potentially targeting U.S. government officials, including former President Donald Trump. In response, the U.S. government has heightened security for Trump and other officials. While the criminal complaint does not explicitly name Trump, multiple sources have confirmed that he was one of the intended targets of the alleged plot. The plot was thwarted by law enforcement before any attack could be executed. Merchant is currently in federal custody in New York, according to the press release released by the FBI.

According to court documents, a federal complaint unsealed in Brooklyn has charged Asif Merchant, also known as "Asif Raza Merchant," a 46-year-old Pakistani national, with murder-for-hire in connection with a foiled assassination plot targeting a politician or US government officials on American soil.

"Fortunately, the assassins Merchant allegedly tried to hire were undercover FBI Agents...This case underscores the dedication and formidable efforts of our agents, analysts and prosecutors in New York, Houston, and Dallas. Their success in neutralizing this threat not only prevented a tragic outcome but also reaffirms the FBI's commitment to protecting our nation and its citizens from both domestic and international threats," said Acting Assistant Director Christie Curtis of the FBI New York Field Office.

The law enforcement officers said that the accused was working on behalf of others overseas and planned the murder of US government officials on American soil. "This prosecution demonstrates that this Office and the entire US Department of Justice will take swift and decisive action to protect our nation's security, our government officials and our citizens from foreign threats," they said.

Merchant travelled to New York City and worked with a hit man to carry out the assassinations in late August or early September, federal prosecutors said in a court complaint. The complaint says the plot was intended to target high-ranking US officials, potentially including Trump. FBI investigators believe that the intended targets included Trump and other current and former US government officials.

According to court documents, Merchant orchestrated a plan to assassinate a politician or U.S. government officials on American soil. In April 2024, after spending time in Iran, Merchant traveled from Pakistan to the United States and reached out to an individual he believed could help him with the plot. This person reported Merchant's intentions to law enforcement and became a confidential informant.

In early June, Merchant met with the confidential source, detailing his assassination scheme and indicating that this would not be a one-time event. He made a gun-like gesture while discussing the killing and clarified that the targets were within the United States. Merchant's plan included several criminal activities: stealing documents from a target's residence, organizing protests, and ultimately assassinating a political figure or government official. He expressed concerns about the security measures around potential targets and discussed various scenarios for carrying out the assassination.

By mid-June, Merchant met with individuals he thought were hitmen but were actually undercover FBI agents. During these meetings, he sought their help for theft and assassination, indicating he would provide instructions on whom to kill after he left the U.S. Merchant agreed to pay $5,000 in cash as an advance for the assassination services, successfully delivering this payment on June 21. He planned to leave the country on July 12, 2024, one day before the planned assassination attempt on Trump. However, law enforcement intervened and arrested him before he could depart.
As Bangladesh scrambles to form an interim government and re-establish normalcy in the country, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed has cleared the air around the reports of his mother seeking asylum. Wazeed, who is based in Washington, said that Hasina has not sought asylum anywhere including the United States and the United Kingdom. Hasina is currently in India and there is no clarity on her next destination.

Wazed said that Hasina was already contemplating a retirement and after the coup, she decided to retire from politics. He said that Hasina is likely to divide her time among her family members. Wzed told NDTV that the question of the UK or the US not responding to her asylum request is not true as she has not sought shelter anywhere.



He said that since the family members live in different countries, Hasina might be travelling between places. While Wazed is in the United States, Hasina's sister is in London and her daughter is in Delhi.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon urged India to arrest the former Prime Minister and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, and return them to Bangladesh. As reported by Dhaka Tribune, Khokon said, "We want to maintain a positive relationship with the people of India. Please arrest Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana, who fled the country, and send them back to Bangladesh."

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.
Forsyth County commissioners decided to fund free cancer screenings for low-income women in a program that will provide eligible participants with mammograms, chest X-rays, and other diagnostic services for more than 120 women.

Commissioners allocated $79,100 from the countys general fund out of Forsyths public health department for the programs $115,000 contract with the service provider, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.

The remaining $35,900 of the contract is covered by funding from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, which has helped fund programs associated with both local governments and community health centers across the state.

In total, the North Carolina Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (NC BCCCP) provides services to over 12,000 women each year who are uninsured/underinsured, without Medicare or Medicaid coverage, or have a household income below 250% of the federal poverty level.

Over recent years, county records show that Forsyths public health department has taken the responsibility of funding the majority of the countys contracts with Baptist.

In 2022, Forsyth received $76,075 from the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and funded the $115,000 contract with $38,925.

In 2023, Forsyth received $39,350 from NCDHHS and paid $76,650 from the public health departments budgeted funds.

Each year, the NCDHHS gives Forsyth a set number of women that the program can serve. Kamilah Pleasants, the countys assistant health director, said that although the number fluctuates each year due to funding, Forsyth has never had trouble meeting the quota.

Last year Forsyths quota was to provide services to 130 women, which the county met very early, Pleasants said. The county usually requests additional funding from the state to provide services to numbers of around 50 additional women, according to Pleasants.

County documents state that the program began July 1 and will run through June 30, 2025.

The county is already using the funds to reach out to women through a nurse focused on outreach, scheduling, and follow up efforts with both the patients and the provider.

Weve already taken a huge chunk out of it, Pleasants said when asked how long it would take to fulfill the states quota of women to reach. It depends on how quickly we can get another nurse hired and trained.

These services are being provided for women ages 40-64 who meet the following qualifications:

You must be uninsured or underinsured;

You must be without Medicare Part B or Medicaid;

You must be between ages 4064 for breast screening services and 2164 for cervical screening services; and

You must have a household income below 250% of the federal poverty level.

For additional information or to book an appointment with the county, prospective patients can call 336-703-3324.
The Confederate monument

The Aug. 6 article on the Winston-Salem Confederate Monument, which has been moved to a Davidson County park, contains this quote attributed to Hate Out of Winston:

From a public history perspective, we think itd be irresponsible for the statue to go up anywhere if it is not accompanied by a plaque that explains exactly where it came from, its history of activists demanding its removal, and the reason it was put back up.

Maybe the article will prompt Hate Out of Winston to open a dialogue with the parks owner, Commemorating Honor Inc., and the statues owners.

Considering the investment of time and money that cities, courts and private citizens have already spent on the monuments in the park, Hate Out of Winston may discover the park and statue owners are receptive to the expression of ideas that add to the educational value of the park, especially if Hate Out of Winston provides the plaque.

Jim Fogle

Kernersville

Public schools matter

Public schools have been a cornerstone of America since its founding almost 250 years ago  and now theyre more important than ever. No matter what type of education makes sense for your family or friends, thriving public schools are good for all of us.

Think of any issue you care about. Healthy public education is at the root of its success.

Jobs and the economy? They cant grow without an educated, skilled workforce.

Crime? Well-educated Americans are much less likely to break the law or end up in jails and prisons we all pay for.

Citizenship? We need every American to understand their rights and their responsibilities.

Achievement? Education is what enables each of us to reach our full potential for ourselves, our families and our communities.

Private school? Even if your children or neighbors dont go to public schools, they need a nation with well-educated, innovative, civic-minded peers who did.

Everyone benefits from a strong public school system. Healthy public schools have been vital to the success of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. Lets all make sure they stay that way.

Public education does the public good. To learn more, go to www.publiceducationmatters.org/.

Deanna Kaplan

Winston-Salem

Ranked choice is right choice

I am concerned for the future of our country. It feels as if people are becoming more and more divided, and that catastrophizing on the left and the right is happening more often. Ranked-choice voting can help.

Ranked-choice voting is a system that encourages more civil campaigning, and more issue-based campaigns. Ranked-choice voting will also help third-party voters feel more represented, which will reduce the likelihood of apathy on the part of those who feel unrepresented by our current two-party political system.

Ranked-choice voting is an important step toward a rational and civil democracy. If you want to help North Carolina get ranked-choice voting, join betterballotnc.org to get involved.

Wyatt Scholl

Winston-Salem

Wrong!

On Aug. 6 a reader wrote in a letter titled One-sided attacking the Journal. There were two glaring mistakes in the letter:

1) The author claims that the paper only supports Democrats and attacks Republicans in its editorial columns. Wrong. There are just as many columnists in the paper who are Republican and/or conservative; just read them.

2) Most importantly, he claims that there are two parties in our country, Democrat and Republican. Wrong again. I dont know about nationwide, but in North Carolina that is false. As a matter of fact, the Republican Party is the third-largest registered voter group in the state behind Democrats and unaffiliated.

David Botchin

Winston-Salem

Trump and Jesus?

I recently stopped at a traffic light with a van in front of me that had two stickers on the back, one saying, Thank you, Jesus and other saying TRUMP 2024. It occurred to me, What is wrong with this picture?

Jesus Christs love and hope, especially for the poor and marginalized, is expressed in the Gospel of Matthew 25:35-40: I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me. I was naked and you gave me clothing. I was sick and you cared for me. I was in prison and you visited me ... As you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.

I am thankful to Jesus for his words and wonder how Jesus words apply to Donald Trump. Oh, of course, Jesus will visit Trump in prison!

The Rev. Stewart Edward Ellis

Clemmons
EAU CLAIRE, Wis.  Vice President Kamala Harris declared herself and her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, "joyful warriors" against Donald Trump as they spent their first full day campaigning together Wednesday across the Midwest.

They got an unusual glimpse of how hotly contested the region will be when they overlapped on a Wisconsin tarmac with Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance.

The Democrats visited Wisconsin and Michigan, hoping to shore up support among the younger, diverse, labor-friendly voters who were instrumental in helping President Joe Biden win the 2020 election.

"As Tim Walz likes to point out, we are joyful warriors," Harris told the day's first rally in Eau Claire.

The Harris campaign said it raised $36 million in the first 24 hours after she announced Walz as her running mate.

The vice president said the pair look on the future with optimism, unlike Trump, the former president and Republican nominee whom she accused of being stuck in the past and preferring a confrontational style of politics  even as she criticized him herself.

"Someone who suggests we should terminate the Constitution of the United States should never again have the chance to sit behind the seal of the United States," Harris said, amid applause from a crowd her campaign said numbered more than 12,000.

Later, at an evening rally in an airport hangar outside Detroit where the campaign announced a crowd of 15,000-strong, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, herself frequently mentioned as a future presidential candidate, declared, We need a strong woman in the White House and its about damn time.

This elections going to be a fight, Harris told the Michigan crowd. "We like a good fight.

Wednesday's campaign swing was especially important for her and Walz since Biden's winning coalition from four years ago showed signs of fraying  particularly in Michigan, which emerged as a focal point of Democratic divisions over Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

With Biden now out of the race, leaders of the Arab American community and key unions say they are encouraged by the running mate choice. Walz's addition to the ticket soothed some tensions, signaling to some leaders that Harris heard concerns about another leading contender for the vice presidential slot, Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, who they felt went too far in his support for Israel.

"The party is recognizing that there's a coalition they have to rebuild," said Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan. "Picking Walz is another sign of good faith."

Trump, too, put emphasis on appealing to voters in Midwestern states with his choice of Vance an Ohio Republican senator, as his running mate. Vance was even bracketing the Harris-Walz ticket with Michigan and Wisconsin appearances of his own Wednesday.

The dueling schedules overlapped enough that while Harris was greeting a group of Girl Scouts at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport in Wisconsin, Vance's campaign plane taxied in the distance.

Vance began walking over to Air Force Two, trailed by his security detail.

The vice president eventually climbed into her motorcade, and it pulled away before they could interact. Still, that the pair came so close to doing so on a tarmac was unusual, given the carefully scripted nature of campaign schedules.

"I just wanted to check out my future plane," Vance later told reporters, meaning that he'd travel on Air Force Two should he and Trump be elected in November.

He criticized Harris for not taking questions from reporters, though she sometimes answers shouted questions while boarding or leaving her plane for campaign stops.

Vance later told the crowd at his Eau Claire event, "We actually just saw the vice president's plane" and then joked of reporters traveling with him, "I figured they must be lonely because Kamala Harris doesn't take any questions."

"If those people want to call me weird I call it a badge of honor," Vance said, responding to a moniker Walz used to describe him that made the Minnesota governor notable online in the days before Harris tapped him as her running mate.

Addressing the Democrats' Wisconsin rally ahead of Harris, Walz had some critical words for Vance but trained most of his sharpest words on Trump, saying the former president "mocks our laws, he sows chaos and division amongst the people and that's to say nothing of the job he did as president."

Republicans are trying to portray Harris and Walz as too liberal for the Midwest, with Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., saying on a conference call that Walz is "part of the radical, crazy left as is Vice President Harris."

But Democratic enthusiasm surged since Harris announced her candidacy and picked Walz as her running mate.

The momentum could be pivotal in Detroit, which is nearly 80% Black, where leaders for months warned administration officials that voter apathy could cost them in a city that's typically a stronghold for their party. Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the NAACP Detroit branch, likened the excitement in the city now to Barack Obama's first run for president in 2008, when voters waited in long lines to help elect the nation's first Black president.

Photos: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz
TEHRAN, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Caretaker Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani has exchanged views on the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh with British and Austrian foreign ministers.

In two separate phone calls on Tuesday with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, Bagheri Kani condemned Israel's "acts of aggression" in the West Asia and discussed the latest regional developments, according to statements released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry on Wednesday.

He told Lammy that Israel's "acts of aggression and terror" were the causes of instability in the region, noting that the latest instances of such Israeli actions were its attacks last week against Lebanon's capital Beirut, and Iran's territory, in which it killed Haniyeh, who was the country's official guest.

Bagheri Kani said following Israel's "crime" of assassinating Haniyeh, the European sides wasted the first diplomatic opportunity by their inaction from even condemning the Israeli action.

He said the United States and a number of European countries, which had impeded the United Nations Security Council from fulfilling its duty to counter Israel, were also responsible for Israel's "malicious acts."

The British foreign secretary said Haniyeh's assassination was a "step backward" in achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. He called on Iran to exercise self-restraint, saying "catastrophic" consequences would occur," if the involved parties do otherwise, which would be in no one's interest.

Speaking to the Austrian foreign minister, Bagheri Kani said by assassinating the Hamas chief, Israel violated Iran's national sovereignty and security, regretting that some European states' silence in the face of Israel's "terrorist actions" had emboldened it to continue intensifying tension and instability in the region.

Schallenberg, for his part, expressed concern over the exacerbation of the situation in West Asia, saying Austria invited all parties to exercise restraint and highlighted the necessity to employ all diplomatic capacities to de-escalate tensions.

Haniyeh, who had been invited to attend Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's swearing-in ceremony last Tuesday, was killed along with his bodyguard early last Wednesday when their residence in Tehran was hit, to which Iran vowed "a harsh and painful response." 
1. Yes. They look better and require less maintenance. Most high-end housing areas have them.

2. Yes. Wood fences can weather and look unsightly, plus masonry walls help to block sound.

3. No. Residents should have a choice of what kind of barriers are put up near their homes.

4. No. Allowing a variety of materials will be better for aesthetics, and costs may be lower.

5. Unsure. Its hard to say. Masonry walls may be sturdier, but mandating them is problematic.

Vote

View Results
Chinese, Egyptian FMs held phone talks on bilateral ties, Mideast situation

Xinhua) 09:23, August 07, 2024

BEIJING, Aug. 7 (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.

Noting that Egypt has an important position in China's overall diplomatic strategy, Wang said President el-Sisi's state visit to China in May was successful, during which the two heads of state laid out a blueprint for the development of bilateral ties.

China and Egypt should seize this opportunity to fully implement the important consensus reached by the two leaders, and work towards building a China-Egypt community with a shared future in the new era, said Wang.

Abdelatty noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Egypt comprehensive strategic partnership, and cooperation between the two sides in various fields is showing positive momentum.

Egypt is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and strengthen high-level exchanges, in a bid to elevate bilateral relations, display broader prospects, and bring more benefits to the people of both countries, he said.

The two sides also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East.

The Gaza conflict, which has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, is a focal point of concern for the international community, said Wang, adding that despite the United Nations Security Council's adoption of a ceasefire resolution, hostilities have yet to subside.

Wang said the assassination of Hamas Politburo Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has pushed the regional situation into a more dangerous height, adding that 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.

Retaliatory violence leads to a vicious cycle, and responding to violence with violence only exacerbates tensions, said Wang, noting that double standards should not be applied to the crisis in Gaza, and China's position on the Palestinian issue has always been consistent and clear.

In response to the Gaza conflict, China has proposed a three-step initiative: achieving a comprehensive ceasefire, promoting post-war governance in Gaza under the principle of "the Palestinians governing Palestine," and effectively implementing the two-state solution, Wang noted.

He also pointed out that China will continue to stand on the side of international justice, strengthen solidarity with Arab countries, and work with all parties to avoid further escalation and deterioration of the situation.

Abdelatty expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in Gaza, emphasizing that the assassination of Haniyeh further complicates efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement and may even lead to a full-scale regional war.

The Middle East can no longer bear more conflict and instability, and the international community must work together to prevent further escalation of the situation in the region, he said.

Abdelatty noted that Egypt highly appreciates China's important role in promoting peace in the Middle East, and is grateful for China's efforts to promote internal reconciliation in Palestine.

The Egyptian side hopes to maintain close cooperation with China to prevent further escalation of the situation, he added.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The small Saxon town of Herrnhut close to the German-Polish border has been recognized as a World Heritage Site, along with two other Moravian settlements planted from Herrnhut in the 18th century in Northern Ireland and Pennsylvania, USA.

This was announced on July 26 at the meeting of the UN Educational, Scientific, Cultural and Communication Organization (UNESCO) committee in New Delhi, India (UNESCO World Heritage Convention).

The recognition was an extension of the World Heritage Site status already granted in 2015 to the Moravian settlement of Christiansfeld near Kolding in Denmark (1773) to include the transnational network of Moravian Church Settlements of Herrnhut (1722), Bethlehem in Pennsylvania, USA (1741), and of Gracehill in Northern Ireland (1759).

Herrnhut itself was established by refugees fleeing from the Catholic Counter-Reformation in Bohemia and Moravia, in what is now the Czech Republic. As spiritual followers of the Prague reformer, Jan Hus, who was martyred in 1415, they consider themselves the first truly Protestant church, predating Luther.

Under the inspirational leadership of Count Nicolas Ludwig Von Zinzendorf, landlord of the estate on which the refugees settled, the Herrnhut community began sending out missionaries in 1732, six decades before the Baptist missionary pioneer, William Carey, went to India.



Zinzendorf would instruct those being sent to be the sort of persons that would make others ask, what sort of God makes people like you? When he died in 1760, the Moravians had sent out more missionaries than all other Protestant churches combined: to Greenland, Lapland, Georgia in America, the Caribbean, Suriname, South Africa, India and many other places.

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Outstanding Universal Value

Wherever they settled, the Moravians established mission communities, expressing servanthood and unity in their corporate lifestyle and holding regular love feasts and footwashing ceremonies. Pioneering ecumenism, they adopted the motto: In essentials unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things charity.

Each of the newly recognized World Heritage Sites reflects the architecture and town planning of Herrnhut. In Christiansfeld, for example, the streets were laid out in a grid pattern as in Herrnhut and lined with linden trees, transported from the Netherlands. Their meeting halls for worship and prayer had totally white-painted interiors, a hallmark of all the Moravian communities.

While UNESCO would not be expected to recognize Herrnhuts central role in catalyzing the modern Protestant missionary movement, its website explains that a World Heritage Site is a cultural and/or natural site having Outstanding Universal Value (OUV). A World Heritage Site embodies cultural and/or natural significance which is so exceptional as to transcend national boundaries and "to be of common importance for present and future generations of all humanity" (UNESCO WHC)

UNESCO lists ten possible criteria of which the Moravian Church Settlements nomination utilized the following:

(iii) to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared.

(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history.

Each settlement has its own architectural character based on ideals of the Moravian Church but adapted to local conditions. UNESCO WHC

The UNESCO website explains that each Moravian settlement had its own architectural character based on ideals of the Moravian Church but adapted to local conditions. Together, they represented the transnational scope and consistency of the international Moravian community as a global network of a socio-religious system which, unusually for its time, was highly tolerant. There was an active congregation present in each component part, where traditions were continued and constituted a living Moravian heritage.

The President of the German UNESCO Commission, Maria Bohmer, described the transnational World Heritage Site as a strong sign, symbolizing cultural and spiritual exchange across national borders and continents. I hope that this special World Heritage Site will continue to have a unifying effect for a long time to come (UNESCO Deutsche)

Blessing the world

In the title of a small book I compiled in 2007, I called Herrnhut the little town that blessed the world, telling about its pivotal role in sending out missionaries and inspiring the ministries of others like John Wesley and William Carey. The book was presented at the Festival of the Nations that year when hundreds of YWAMers from across Europe converged on the town where for the last two decades many more hundreds of young missionaries have been trained in the YWAM centre near the township, the Wasserschloss castle.

Herrnhut has been a regular weekend stopover on the Continental Heritage Tours my wife Romkje and I have led since 2005 through Germany on to the Czech Republic following the trail of faithful minorities who have shaped Europes story. It links Cyril and Methodius, the apostles to the Slavic peoples in Central Europe, to Jan Hus, Jan Amos Comenius (bishop of the Ancient Moravian Church, philosopher and pedagogue) and to Zinzendorf, Wesley and Carey.

Perhaps one day the transnational heritage site will be furthered expanded to include other Moravian communities, such as Konigsveld in Germanys Black Forest, or Zeist in the Netherlands, where the first Moravian global missions conference was held.
Thanks to everyone who attended the pork chop dinner on July 27. It was a successful evening and a total sellout. Your donations let us continue our mission to preserve and promote Vernon County history for the education of all. We cant do events like this without the support of all our volunteers who worked the event or donated supplies. You are appreciated.

The Vernon County Museum & History Center/Historical Society will be sponsoring two events on Saturday, Aug. 10. Beginning at 10 a.m. we will be holding our last brat and hot dog grill-out for the year at Nelson Agri-Center. Serving will take place until 2 p.m. or when the food is gone. Have lunch with us and support a great cause. Later that day, bring your own chair and meet us in the Vernon County Museum & History Center parking lot for Swift Night Out. At 7:30, swift expert Dr. Stefan Gleissberg of the Wisconsin Chimney Swift Working Group will speak. We will also hear from local bird enthusiast Dave Krier. About 8:30, the swifts will begin to circle the chimney and eventually enter it to roost for the night. We hope you can attend one or both events.

A new exhibit has recently been placed the on second floor called the History of Postcards. The museum has a large collection of postcards which reflect the history of how postcards were developed, different printing techniques and assorted themes. The first postcards were produced in 1861 when the United States government authorized them to be sent through the U.S. Postal System and since then have been sent all over the world to express holiday and birthday greetings, wish you were here, thinking of you, etc. When postcards were first established, a postcard could be sent for just one penny. This inexpensive mode of communication was so popular that when a Massachusetts company released their postcards to Springfield residents on May 12, 1873, 200,000 cards were sold in 2.5 hours on May 14, according to a New York Times article. By the end of June, 1873, 31 million cards were sold nationwide! This exhibit also gives a concise version of the history of the postal system in the U.S.

The Museum & History Center continues its summer hours through the month of September. We are open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. As always, we are open by appointment and will do our best to accommodate your schedule. Call 608-637-7396 if you have any questions.
The Russian-controlled Crimean Supreme Court on Thursday (Aug. 2) sentenced a Ukrainian Orthodox priest to 14 years in a harsh labor camp for conviction on false espionage charges.

The Prosecutors Office alleged that the Rev. Kostiantyn Maksimov, 41, of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), used the internet to transmit coordinates of the deployment of Russian air defense equipment to the Ukrainian security service.

Rights group Forum 18 said there is no evidence to support the claim and that the prison sentence conflicts with international law under the Geneva Convention relative to the protection of civilians in time of war. Under this law, Russia is required to respect Ukrainian laws in occupied terrain.

Im in such shock. I had hoped for less, Maksimovs mother, Svetlana Maksimova, told Forum 18 after Thursdays hearing in Simferopol. We will appeal against the sentence, though I dont think it will be changed.

She has not seen her son since December 2021 and said she hoped he would be included in reported prisoner swaps between Ukraine and Russia. Forum 18 stated that Maksimov likely would remain inside Investigation Prison No. 2 in Simferopol, pending any appeal before transfer to a labor camp.

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Under Article 276 of the Russian Criminal Code, espionage carries a jail term of 10 to 20 years.

Maksimov served at the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tokmak city, in Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Region.

He had been arrested by Russian forces in the town of Chongar in May 2023 after trying to cut across a border with occupied Crimea.

Russian authorities brought him to court with the trial beginning on June 6  more than a year after his initial arrest and incarceration.

Forum 18 has tried to obtain information about the trial by phoning the prison where Maksimov is jailed and Russian-controlled authorities such as the Zaporizhzhia Region Prosecutors Office in Melitopol, the duty prosecutor at the Crimean Prosecutors Office in Simferopol, the Zaporizhzhia Regional Court and the chancellery for criminal cases at Crimeas Supreme Court.

None of these authorities either answered or responded to the watchdog groups requests for further information.

Artyom Sharlay, head of the Russian occupiers Department for Work with Ethnic, Religious and Cossack Organizations of the Social and Political Communications Department, did not answer his phone, according to Forum 18. The department is part of the Internal Policy Department of the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia Regional Administration.

Sharlay previously told Forum 18 in October 2023 that Maksimov did not want the Berdyansk Diocese of the UOC to join with the Russian Orthodox Church.

The priests jail sentence is the latest event in a crackdown trend against Christians in Russian-occupied territory.
Wisconsinites turning on TVs in the past two weeks have likely seen U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwins latest attack ad targeting Republican candidate Eric Hovde on comments he made more than a decade ago appearing to attack the work ethic of farmers.

Baldwins ad is the latest in a flurry of TV spots in the race leading up to the November election, in which Hovde, a Madison business owner, is looking to unseat Baldwin as she pursues a third term in office.

Despite Hovdes Madison ties, Democrats continue to target the CEO of the California-based H Bancorp and its primary subsidiary, Sunwest Bank, as someone who is out of touch with Wisconsin values.

The ad in question kicks off with a classic tableau of a Wisconsin farm, with cows mooing and hay bales being tossed.

They dont clock out at 5 or care if its the weekend, a woman identified in the ad as Tina, from Cambridge, says in reference to the hungry bovines. That means we keep working too.

So when Eric Hovde says that farmers dont work hard, that pisses me off, a man identified as Duane continues.

The ad then pivots to comments Hovde made in a 2012 interview with WisconsinEye Senior Producer Steve Walters while Hovde was in the midst of his first run for U.S. Senate.

Think of farming. Look at the old physical toil that it would take on your body, Hovde said in the eight-second clip from the interview. Now youre largely driving around a tractor.

The TV spot then circles back to the two farmers, with Duane asking, What the hell is wrong with this guy?

What did Hovde actually say in that more than 12-year-old interview?

Speaking with Walters on July 21, 2012, Hovde was discussing the U.S. health care system and how many workplaces have changed over the years. At the time, Hovde was advocating for repealing the Affordable Care Act and reducing the governments involvement in the nations health care system.

Were not having to deal with as many issues as we did in the past, Hovde said at the time. We dont engage in hard labor like we did, we dont have as many accidents on the job. Most of us now are involved in some type of white-collar profession, or even professions that are involved with manual labor  its much safer, its more protected.

Think of farming. Look at the old physical toil that it would take on your body. Now youre largely driving around a tractor, but the point is our health care system has advanced, Hovde continued.

Hovdes comments were part of a larger sentiment that the increased average life expectancy was reason to raise the retirement age, which he proposed as a means to preserve Social Security and Medicare programs.

For someone like myself, who has been very economically fortunate in life, I may have to forgo my Social Security so other people can have theirs. Were just all going to have to make some sacrifices and even though I paid in every year to Social Security, Im not going to need Social Security to live on. I think once you reach certain income levels or asset net worth levels, that youre going to get a diminishment of your Social Security, or may receive nothing at very high levels, Hovde said in the interview. I think we have to change the retirement age and do means testing and, between the two, we can keep Social Security solvent so most Americans can have it as that support system.

So whats the rest of the story?

Hovde, who ultimately lost the 2012 Republican primary to former Gov. Tommy Thompson, was indeed making a comparison to how farmers work today versus a bygone era when most of the work was done by hand.

But from the full context of the interview, he was not casting aspersions on farmers work ethic. Instead, he was simply making the point that modern farming is less hard on the body than it used to be in order to make a point about about workplace safety.

Baldwins campaign spokesperson Andrew Mamo said Tina and Duanes comments in the ad were made in reaction to Hovdes full comments from the 2012 WisconsinEye interview.
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.

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"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.
The Christian Police Association (CPA) has pleaded with followers of Jesus Christ to fervently pray and support police officers who are dealing with violent confrontations as widespread riots stirred by extremist groups continue to cause mayhem in cities across the U.K.

The riots, believed to have been instigated mainly by right-wing extremists, but also involving some left-wing groups, began after the horrific murder of three girls who were stabbed to death in a childrens holiday club in Southport on Monday, July 29.

Bebe King (6), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7) and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (9) tragically died in the murder spree after attending a Taylor Swift themed dance class in a community center. Another 10 youngsters were seriously injured.

A 17 year old teenager, not named for legal reasons, has been arrested and charged with three murders, and 10 counts of attempted murders.

Reports say right-wing groups instigated riots by incorrectly linking the arrival of an immigrant to the deaths, with reports of violent protests so far in Southport itself, as well as Aldershot, Belfast, Birmingham, Blackpool, Bristol, Hartlepool, Hull, London, Liverpool, Manchester Nottingham, Plymouth, and Sunderland.

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Stephen Parkinson, Director of Public Prosecutions, told the BBC that terrorism offenses are being considered for some of the arrested rioters.

Police officers have been in the firing line as rioters burnt cars and damaged buildings including mosques and pubs, leaving some officers injured.

Reports say 6,000 public order officers are ready for further rioting in the days ahead.

Meanwhile the U.K.-based CPA sent an exclusive comment to Christian Daily International, pleading for believers to pray for police officers during this period of unrest in the nation and to practically support and encourage them.

The statement was signed by Deborah Akinlawon QPM, CPA executive director and Tony Gale, executive support manager.

The CPA cited Sir John Stevens, a former Metropolitan Police Commissioner who was recently asked during a meeting with church leaders what he needed from them. In response, he said, "I need three things from you: Prayer! Prayer! Prayer!"

The Bible says the effectual and fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much, read the CPA statement, and went on to list a number of specific prayer request.

Please intercede for the officers and staff who everyday are standing in the front line having all sorts of items thrown at them, are being abused and insulted everyday, for no other reason than doing their jobs. For their safety, wellbeing and for their worried families waiting at home.

Pray for strength as many are called back on duty, doing double and triple shifts, missing out on time with their families.

Pray for healing for those who have been injured during these riots, mental and physical. Pray for police leaders and politicians for wisdom to make the right choices in these situations.



The CPA referenced 1 Timothy 2:1-4 as putting beautifully Gods heart for believers to prayer for those in authority and why this is good, because He (Jesus) longs for everyone to embrace His life and return to the full knowledge of The Truth.



Prayers for unity and peace to return to the nation was another request, alongside the eradication of hatred and prayers for love for one another to return."



Pray for all emergency services involved, ambulance people and paramedics tending to the injured, firefighters putting out deliberately set fires meant to harm. Pray for their safety.



The CPA also suggested practical ways for local churches to support police - going to a police station with a box of donuts and asking how you can serve those who are serving us.



How can we 'wash their weary feet'? They are sons and daughters, mothers and fathers just like us, read the CPA statement.



Send cards, letters of thanks to stations. When you see an officer on the street, say 'hello,' say 'thank you,' ask, 'how are you'?



Allow your churches to be places of refuge and peace that they can come to as a place of safety.



Be Jesus to every officer. Love them.



The CPA also prepared the following prayer that could be offered at this time of social tensions:

Lord God. At this time of unrest, we ask for your Spirit to bring unity to our communities. For those who feel anxious, scared or intimidated  we ask you to fill them with your peace. For those who feel unwanted, abandoned or alone  we pray that you would fill them with your love. For those who feel in despair  we ask you to bring your hope.

We pray for all emergency workers at this time. For the police officers charged with keeping people safe and maintaining order; for the paramedics caring for those who are injured; and for the fire fighters responding to acts of arson and vandalism. Protect them from harm. Help them act with courage in the face of aggression and with restraint in the face of hostility.

We pray for our politicians and community leaders. That they would have the wisdom to know how to bring our communities together at this time in hope, love and reconciliation.

We pray for those causing disorder on the streets, that they will turn from darkness and hate, to be responsible upstanding citizens of their country.

Fill this land with your spirit of peace we pray.
The Ugandan leader, Idi Amin, has set a deadline for the expulsion of most of the countrys Asians.

General Amin said all Asians who are not Ugandan citizens  around 60,000  must leave Uganda within 90 days.

The military rulers latest statement amended his original expulsion order two days ago when he said all the countrys 80,000 Asians had to go.

Asians, who are the backbone of the Ugandan economy, have been living in the country for more than a century.

But resentment against them has been building up within Ugandas black majority.

Expulsion surprises Britain

General Amin has called the Asians bloodsuckers and accused them of milking the economy of its wealth.

Up to 50,000 Asians in the former UK colony are British passport holders.

In a broadcast, General Amin said he would be summoning the British High Commissioner in Kampala to ask him to arrange for their removal.

The expulsion order has taken Britain by surprise.

General Amin overthrew Ugandas elected leader in a military-backed coup last year but the British authorities had regarded him as a man they could work with.

Currently around 1,000 Asians from Uganda settle in the UK each year under an enlarged quota allocation introduced last year.

But a growing number have been attempting to circumvent the system and enter Britain illegally.

Right-wing MPs have warned that letting more Ugandan Asians into the UK could raise racial tensions.

They are urging the government not to take them in.

Conservative MP Ronald Bell said Ugandas Asians had no real links to Britain.

Speaking on behalf of the Monday Clubs Immigration Committee, Mr Bell said: They were either born in India or have retained close connection with India.

They have no connection with Britain either by blood or residence.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

Britain was unable to negotiate a compromise with Idi Amin and eventually about 50,000 Asians were forced to leave Uganda.

Most of those with British passports  around 30,000  came to the UK.

Many arrived virtually penniless having been expelled without compensation for businesses and property.

Some were also robbed by troops en route to the airport.

There were many objections to their arrival  Leicester Council even took out newspaper advertisements warning them not to come to the city.

Idi Amins rule was one of Ugandas most brutal periods.

He was overthrown in 1979 and lived in exile in Saudi Arabia until his death in 2003.
Students in Macau and Hong Kong who plan to go abroad to pursue further studies are advised to vaccinate against meningococcal, a life-threatening disease.

Experts warn that young children and adolescents are particularly susceptible to these dangerous bacterial infections, which can progress rapidly and prove fatal.

A recent survey by The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Hong Kong found that parents awareness and understanding of meningococcal prevention measures are alarmingly low.

More than 80% of invasive meningococcal cases result in death within just 24 hours of the initial infection, said society president So Yiu-wah.

The speed at which these infections can overwhelm the body is what makes them so deadly, especially for vulnerable younger populations, he added.

With frequent cross-border travel, the risk of exposure is heightened.

Experts recommend that anyone planning to travel or study abroad take steps to protect themselves.

The society said several popular destinations for Hong Kong students, including the United Kingdom (UK), Australia, and New Zealand, are experiencing an increase in cases of meningococcal disease, which is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria.

According to the survey, parents in Hong Kong are dangerously unaware of the severity of meningococcal disease and how to prevent it.

The study found that 30% of parents mistakenly believe the illness can be treated with basic painkillers like paracetamol. Furthermore, one-fifth of respondents did not even know the disease was preventable through vaccination.

For the doctors, these findings show a profound lack of understanding about how life-threatening meningococcal infections can be, especially for young children and teenagers.

The number of invasive meningococcal infection cases in the UK increased sharply after the Covid-19 pandemic, with about 80% being meningococcal B and half of the victims aged between 15 and 24 [] this is concerning, he said, as cited in multiple reports.

Parents are sending their children aged between 15 and 18 abroad to study, and they are a high-risk group and should take precautions as soon as possible. Staff Reporter
The Chief Executive (CE), Ho Iat Seng, has returned from his extended leave and has recently met with the new president of the Macau branch of the Bank of China (BOC), Jia Tianbing.

The meeting, held at the governments headquarters, was to discuss the development of the territorys financial sector, supporting the diversification of the local economy, and the construction of the Guangdong-Macau In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.

Welcoming Jia and his delegation, the CE expressed his gratitude for the long-term support for Macaus socio-economic development, which has helped keep the financial market in the region stable.

Ho noted that the central government has launched several measures that have benefited Macau and the region and that this has contributed to continuous development.

Remarking on the 1+4 strategy for local economic diversification, the CE noted that the financial sector is an important pillar of the strategy and contributes to the security and stability of the banking system.

The CE said he hopes the BOC Macau will continue assisting the innovation and implementation of the financial sector in Macau and the In-depth Cooperation Zone, supporting the construction of the Zone.

In turn, Jia recalled that the bank was established in Macau approximately 74 years ago and has always pursued national importance to realize its goal of being rooted in Macau and serving the benefit of Macau.

As chairman of the Macao Association of Banks, he also pledged to continue cooperating with industry to enhance the quality and efficiency of high-end financial services, providing more comprehensive, high-quality, and professional financial services to local businesses and residents.

Jia also pledged to support local integration into the national context, promote diversified development of the local economy, and create a development environment based on the principle of one country, two systems with Macau characteristics.
Hiroshima officials urged world leaders yesterday to stop relying on nuclear weapons as deterrence and take immediate action toward abolishment  not as an ideal, but to remove the risk of atomic war amid conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East and rising tensions in East Asia.

They commented as Hiroshima remembered its atomic bombing 79 years ago at the end of World War II.

The memorial comes days after Japan and the U.S. reaffirmed Washingtons commitment to extended deterrence, which includes atomic weapons, to protect its Asian ally. That is a shift from Japans past reluctance to openly discuss the sensitive issue as the worlds only country to have suffered atomic attacks.

Hiroshima Gov. Hidehiko Yuzaki said nuclear-armed nations and supporters of atomic deterrence deliberately ignore  the fact that once people invented a weapon, they used it without exception.

As long as nuclear weapons exist, they will surely be used again someday, Yuzaki said in his address at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Nuclear weapons abolition is not an ideal to achieve far in the future. Instead, it is a pressing and real issue that we should desperately engage in at this moment since nuclear problems involve an imminent risk to human survival, he said.

Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui said Russias war on Ukraine and the worsening conflict between Israel and Palestinians are deepening distrust and fear among nations and reinforcing a view that use of force in settling conflict is unavoidable.

The atomic bomb dropped by the United States on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, destroyed the city, killing 140,000 people. A second bomb dropped three days later on Nagasaki killed 70,000 more. Japan surrendered on Aug. 15, ending World War II and Japans nearly half-century aggression in Asia.

About 50,000 people at the ceremony observed a minute of silence with the sound of a peace bell at 8:15 a.m., the time when a U.S. B-29 dropped the bomb on the city. Hundreds of white doves, considered symbols of peace, were released. MDT/AP
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 the 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. MDT/AP
Sands China successfully held the highly anticipated 70 Years Back in Time  Rachmaninoff concert at The Venetian Theatre July 6, co-organised in collaboration with the Cultural Affairs Bureau and the Macao Orchestra. The event is the most recent highlight of the Sands China Performing Arts Programme, showcasing exceptional musical talents while bringing classical music to the forefront of Macaos cultural scene.

The concert featured the prominent music director and principal conductor of the Macao Orchestra, Lio Kuokman, along with world-renowned French pianist Lise de la Salle. Together, they captivated the audience with three iconic compositions by Russian maestros Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Sergei Rachmaninoff. Under Lios baton, the Macao Orchestra embarked on a musical journey, commencing with Rimsky-Korsakovs enchanting Capriccio Espagnol, fully displaying the unique charm of the various orchestral instruments.

The orchestra then presented Rachmaninoffs Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini and Symphonic Dances, masterpieces that ingeniously intertwine renowned melodies from both past composers and Rachmaninoff himself.

In addition to the concert, Sands China hosted an exclusive piano masterclass on July 4, where de la Salle generously shared her experiences and insights as a performer. A total of 80 aspiring music enthusiasts had the unique opportunity to attend the masterclass, and selected participants had the privilege of receiving one-on-one guidance from one of the most accomplished musicians in the international music scene today.

Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., said: Music has the power to transcend boundaries, touch our souls, and connect us on a profound level We are particularly pleased to have hosted a piano masterclass with Lise de la Salle, as we believe in fostering and nurturing emerging talent. By providing aspiring pianists with this invaluable chance to learn closely from such an accomplished musician, we can empower the next generation of artists and inspire them to pursue their dreams Our goal is to broaden the scope of arts by creating a vibrant atmosphere for art appreciation in Macao, thus laying a solid foundation for the development of local creative and cultural industries.
Venezuelas top prosecutor yesterday [Macau time] 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.

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.

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.

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.

The Venezuela-based human rights organization Provea, in a report issued yesterdayanalyzing 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.

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.

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 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, 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. Also yesterday, 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. REGINA GARCIA CANO & JOSHUA GOODMAN, CARACAS, MDT/AP
As a rule, the U.S. secretary of state does not attend the funeral of the general secretary of a Communist party. Yet that is exactly what Washingtons top diplomat, Antony Blinken, had planned to do for the last rites of Nguyen Phu Trong, the longtime leader of Vietnam, who died in office on July 19, 2024, aged 80. Ultimately, Blinken couldnt make it to the funeral, but he did visit Hanoi a day later. There, he paid his respects to the Vietnamese government and to the family of Trong, whose 13-year rule saw the country make enormous strides, including a drastic decline in the nations poverty rate  from 14% of the population in 2010 to 4% in 2022.

The passing of leaders provides an opportunity to draw a balance of their performance in office. Trong can be proud of his record  Vietnam has made much economic and social progress and looks set to continue along that route. Moreover, the legacy of Trongs set of foreign policy principles  known as bamboo diplomacy  serves as a model for smaller states as they navigate the complexities of shifting geopolitics and growing tensions between the U.S. and China.

Vietnam was already on an upward trajectory when Trong came to power in 2011 as the most powerful figure in the countrys ruling Communist Party. After decades of stagnation and abject poverty, the opening up of Vietnams economy under the Doi Moi  or renovation  reforms of 1986 led to what the World Bank refers to as a development success story. The reforms helped Vietnam transition from being one of the poorest countries in the world to a middle-income nation over a 40-year period.

Under Trongs watch, the country of close to 100 million people has seen average annual growth of 5.8%  one of the highest in Asia and the world. Despite its sandwich position in the current great power competition, Vietnam under Trong managed to maintain good relations with Beijing, Moscow, and Washington.

Yet Trongs achievements werent foregrounded in some of the reports of his death. International coverage of the occasion was prone to fall back on the cliches that Western media too often bestows upon developing country leaders. Hardliner and Marxist-Leninist ideologue were the terms used to describe him in rather one-dimensional reports. To his credit, Blinken described Trong as a visionary leader in his tribute. Other U.S. politicians havent always looked upon Trong in such a positive light. During Trongs historic visit to the White House in 2015, the Obama administration was slammed by lawmakers for accommodating the figurehead of an authoritarian one-party system responsible for a deplorable human rights situation in Vietnam.

Trong was a remarkable man with an enviable record. In contrast to other Vietnamese officials, he was modest and unassuming, lived in ordinary, government-provided housing, drove an old, battered Toyota Crown and was steeped in the mores of Vietnams collective leadership traditions.

Trong was especially successful in attracting U.S. companies eager to diminish their dependence on their operations in China, and to rely on friend-shoring  that is, investment that goes to countries seen as friendly. Amazingly, he was able to do the same with China. This careful cultivation of ties with both Washington and Beijing was the root of bamboo diplomacy, the foreign policy strategy that Trong will be best remembered for. The strategy  which Trong outlined in 2016 in a speech which noted that, like bamboo itself, a successful foreign policy needed strong roots, stout trunk and flexible branches  was triggered by the growing tensions between China and the United States.

[Abridged]
Frontline Ministries, Inc., Celebrates 30 Year Anniversary

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Frontline Ministries, Inc.

Aug. 7, 2024



COLUMBIA, S.C., Aug. 7, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- Frontline Ministries, Inc., a non-profit, Christian organization, is celebrating 30 years of ministry by hosting a fundraising banquet at Jackson Hall, First Presbyterian Church, 1324 Marion St, Columbia, SC, on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The main speaker will be Dr. Carl Broggi, Senior pastor of Community Bible Church, Beaufort, SC. He will address the topic, "Pastors Leading Their Churches in Christian education." Tickets may be purchased for this event online at https://Frontline30@eventbrite.com.



Frontline Ministries, Inc., began in 1994, co-founded by Chaplain E. Ray Moore, and Rev. Lee Adams, the first executive director. Ray and his wife, Gail, and Lee Adams and his wife, Susan, both provided their children with homeschool education. Ray is a retired Army Reserve Chaplain (Lt. Col.), and veteran of Gulf War I. Ray and Gail began home schooling in 1977 and were among the first who pioneered the modern home-schooling movement.



For 30 years, Frontline Ministries, Inc., has been a major leader in raising awareness of the collapse of public education and encouraging Christian parents to remove their children from those godless institutions and to provide them with biblical worldview Christian education. It is only in the past 10-15 years that other ministries have mobilized with the same message. As a result of Frontline Ministries, Inc. and the efforts of similar organizations, an estimated 3.5 million children will be home schooling this year - and millions more will be attending Christian and private schools.



Special guest speaker, Dr. Carl Broggi, will deliver an inspiring and challenging message entitled, Pastors Leading Their Churches in Christian Education. Carl is the senior pastor of Community Bible Church in Beaufort, SC., and is the headmaster of Community Bible Church Christian Academy for K-12 home education. CBC Christian Academy started in 1992, which has had hundreds of participating families and graduates. Community Bible Church currently supports over 300 missionaries, both local and worldwide. He serves as president of WAGP 88.7 FM radio station which provides multi-faceted programming intended to transform and renew our minds in Christ. Carl provides leadership to The Institute of Biblical Studies, a continuing education opportunity for those who desire a Certificate of Biblical Studies. Carl also serves as president of Search the Scriptures radio, broadcasting his messages largely to east coast stations & worldwide on the Internet.



Ray Moore states,

"For over 30 years, I have traveled across the country promoting the mission of Frontline Ministries, Inc., encouraging and assisting Christian families and churches to leave the state-sponsored public school system for the promised land of K-12 Christian schools or home schooling. My hope and prayer is that a fresh obedience by churches and families in the education of their children according to biblical commands will prove to be a key for the revival and reformation of our families, churches and culture. Neither the state nor government has any God-ordained role in the education and discipleship of children, which belongs to the family and the Church."

Ray currently serves as president of Frontline Ministries, Inc., focusing on prayer, revival and Christian education. He is the founder and director of the Exodus Mandate Project (www.exodusmandate.org), launched in 1997, which is one of the leading advocates in America today for K-12 Christian and home-based education as an alternative to state-run public schools. He is Chairman Emeritus of the Christian Education Initiative (www.Christedu.org), launched in Feb 2019. He is Chairman of www.PublicSchoolExit.com, launched in 2020. He is author of Let My Children Go and co-authored with his wife, Gail, The Promise of Jonadab: Building a Christian Family Legacy in a Time of Cultural Decline. He is the Executive Producer of the 2011 award-winning film, IndoctriNation (Gunn Productions). He is script writer and Executive Producer of the July 2015 released film, Escaping Common Core: Setting Our Children Free (Cutting Edge Films).



The Dr. Robert Dreyfus "Courageous Christian Leadership Award," established by Frontline Ministries, Inc., in 2007, will be presented to the 2024 recipient during the banquet. It is awarded annually to honor and recognize Christian leaders who have exhibited moral courage through their unique contribution to the Church by advancing Christianity in the culture and life of the nation. This contribution may run counter to the prevailing culture of Church and society.



To reserve your ticket(s), please go to https://Frontline30.eventbrite.com Early Bird discount of $35/per person until August 10th. $45/per person until August 15th deadline.



For more information, please, contact: Frontline Ministries, Inc., P.O. Box 12072, Columbia, SC 29211, (803) 714-1744, www.exodusmandate.org, exodusmandate@gmail.com.



SOURCE Frontline Ministries, Inc.


The Wisconsin State Journal is asking readers to submit their questions about the Madison School Districts pair of referendums up for voter approval in November.

The two referendums total $607 million, making them the second-largest request of voters by a school district in state history. It comes in behind Racines $1 billion school referendum, which passed in 2020 by only five votes.

If voters approve both measures in Madison, $100 million would be used to help pay for operational expenses, such as staff salaries and the cost of new curriculum. About $507 million would be used to build or renovate 10 schools  updates the district says it couldnt afford otherwise.

Both referendums would bring tax increases for homeowners.

The district cites the states system for funding public education as the main cause of its financial woes. In Wisconsin, school spending is controlled by revenue limits, which cap the amount districts can collect and spend through a combination of property taxes and money from the state.

The State Journal wants to help the community better understand what is going on. Readers are encouraged to submit any questions about Madisons school referendums to reporter Abbey Machtig at amachtig@madison.com.
Prosecutors charged four Milwaukee hotel employees Tuesday with being a party to felony murder in connection with DVontaye Mitchells death.

Mitchell was Black. The incident has drawn comparisons to the murder of George Floyd, a Black man who died in 2020 after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into his neck for about nine minutes. Floyds death sparked a national reckoning on race relations marked by multiple protests around the country.

Charged were hotel security guard Todd Erickson; front desk worker Devin Johnson-Carson; bellhop Herbert Williamson; and security guard Brandon Turner. If convicted, they each would face up to 15 years and nine months in prison.

Reached by telephone Tuesday evening, Erickson referred a request for comment to his attorney, Michael Steinle, who didn't return voicemail or email messages.

It was unclear if any of the other three employees had attorneys. Online court records didnt list any for them Tuesday evening. A telephone listing for Williamson had been disconnected, and The Associated Press could not immediately locate phone numbers or other contact information for Johnson-Carson or Turner.

The Milwaukee County District Attorneys office said in a news release that arrest warrants had been issued for all four employees. The office and the Milwaukee Police Department did not immediately respond to emails inquiring if the employees had been arrested or had attorneys.

According to a criminal complaint, the four employees dragged Mitchell out of the Hyatt Hotel on June 30 after Mitchell entered a womans bathroom and held him on his stomach for eight or nine minutes. One of the employees told investigators that Mitchell was having trouble breathing and repeatedly pleaded for help, according to the complaint.

An autopsy showed that Mitchell suffered from morbid obesity and had ingested cocaine and methamphetamine, the complaint said.

Hyatt surveillance video shows Mitchell frantically running into the hotel's lobby and then into the gift shop before entering the women's bathroom, the complaint said. A few seconds later, a woman emerges and Turner, who was off-duty but happened to be visiting staff at that moment, drags Mitchell out of the bathroom into the lobby by his shirt.

The two begin to struggle, and Turner punches Mitchell, knocking him to the floor. He then punches Mitchell six times and drags him out of the hotel with the help of a bystander. Mitchell gets up and tries to go back inside.

Williamson, Johnson-Carson and Erickson, who was on duty as the security manager, then join the fray. Together with Turner they hold Mitchell down on his stomach for eight to nine minutes before police and emergency responders arrive. The video shows that during that span, Mitchell tries to break free multiple times, and Erickson hits him with a baton before he eventually stops moving, according to the complaint.

A video taken by a witness includes audio of Mitchell moaning and saying he is sorry. An autopsy found that Mitchell was morbidly obese and had cocaine and methamphetamine in his system.

The county medical examiner ultimately determined that Mitchell died of restraint asphyxia. He may have lived if the employees allowed him to turn onto his side, the medical examiner said, according to the complaint.

Erickson told investigators that Mitchell was very strong and kept resisting them and tried to bite him. But the guard said he never did anything to intentionally hurt or harm Mitchell.

Turner told a detective that said that he heard women screaming in the bathroom after Mitchell entered it, and he thought Mitchell was on drugs. At one point while the group was holding Mitchell down, he moved Mitchell's clothing off his face, he said, according to the complaint.

Johnson-Carson told investigators that Mitchell was not in a stable sort of mind, and he was speaking gibberish," the complaint said.

He said he remembered Mitchell saying stop and why and something about breathing while he was being held down. He told Williamson to stop applying pressure, which he did. Johnson-Carson said that Mitchell displayed clear signs of extreme distress, including gags, distressed breathing and repeated pleas for help, according to the complaint.

The complaint concludes that the employees had to have known Mitchell was in distress. All of these factors, the gasping, the actions and words of DM, the distress that he was in, show that all four Defendants were aware that holding DM face first on the ground was practically certain to cause impairment of his physical condition," the complaint says.

Mitchell's relatives and their lawyers had previously reviewed hotel surveillance video provided by the district attorneys office. They described seeing Mitchell being chased inside the hotel by security guards and then dragged outside, where he was beaten.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is part of a team of lawyers representing Mitchells family, has said video recorded by a bystander and circulating on social media shows security guards with their knees on Mitchells back and neck.

Crump posted a statement on X on Tuesday evening calling the charges a significant step towards justice for the family of D'Vontaye Mitchell!

DeAsia Harmon, Mitchell's widow, said Tuesday that the decision was a relief. But she questioned why it took weeks.

These people are on camera taking my husband's life, she said. They should have been charged the moment they did that.

Aimbridge Hospitality, the company that manages the hotel, said previously that several employees involved in Mitchells death have been fired.

The company released a statement Tuesday evening saying it had cooperated fully with law enforcement and will continue to cooperate with prosecutors. "Our hearts are with Mr. Mitchell's family and loved ones as this case moves forward, the statement said.

Associated Press writer Kathleen Foody in Chicago contributed to this report.
As is almost always the case in Wisconsin, the upcoming presidential election still appears to be a toss-up, despite Vice President Kamala Harris replacing President Joe Biden at the top of the ticket to challenge former President Donald Trump in November, a Marquette Law School Poll released Wednesday shows.

But while Wisconsin continues to live up to its reputation as a key swing state, Marquettes new poll underscores that Harris entry into the race appears to have boosted Democratic voters enthusiasm after several previous polls this year showed Republicans largely holding the advantage in their level of enthusiasm to vote this fall.

The latest poll comes after several tumultuous weeks that included Bidens poor debate performance in late June, the assassination attempt against Trump just days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Harris ascension to the top of the Democratic Party ticket after Biden dropped out of the race, and the announcement of both presidential candidates running mates  Trumps pick of Ohio Sen. JD Vance and Harris selection of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

In Marquettes poll, Trump, seeking to return to the White House after his 2020 loss to Biden, received support from 50% of registered voters, compared with 49% for Harris  well within the polls 4.6% margin of error.

Among likely voters, Harris received support from 50% of respondents, compared with Trumps 49%. The margin of error among likely voters is 4.8%.

Harris officially launched her campaign in late July after Biden, who faced mounting pressure from within his party after his poor debate performance, ended his reelection bid. On Monday, Democratic National Convention delegates formally approved Harris as the partys presidential nominee.

Among Democratic registered voters, 92% said theyre very or somewhat satisfied with Harris as the partys nominee, compared with 7% who said theyre very or somewhat dissatisfied with the choice, according to Marquettes latest poll.

The bottom line is Democrats are pretty satisfied with Harris as the nominee, poll director Charles Franklin said.

Marquettes June poll, the last conducted before Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed his vice president, found Biden and Trump dead even, with both candidates receiving support from 50% of registered voters  largely mirroring results from Marquettes previous polling this year.

In a hypothetical matchup in the latest poll asking registered voters who theyd support if Biden remained in the race, 47% of respondents backed Trump, compared with 42% supporting Biden. Another 10% of respondents said they did not know.

The poll was conducted by phone and online July 24 through Aug. 1 and surveyed 877 registered voters, wrapping up before Harris picked Walz as her running mate on Tuesday. Harris and Walz held a rally in Eau Claire Wednesday afternoon. The visit was Harris sixth to the battleground state this year and second since Biden dropped out.

Vance also traveled to Eau Claire Wednesday as he trails Harris on her tour this week of battleground states.

U.S. Senate

In a race that could determine which party controls the U.S. Senate next year, Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, continues to maintain her narrow lead over Republican businessman Eric Hovde, also of Madison. Among registered voters, 53% back Baldwin, compared with 46% supporting Hovde.

The margin remains comparable to Marquettes June poll, which found Baldwin receiving support from 52% of both registered and likely voters, compared with 47% for Hovde. April polling found Baldwin backed by 52% of registered voters, compared with Hovdes 47%. That poll found the race to be evenly split among likely voters, with both candidates receiving 50%.

In terms of favorability, Baldwin has remained largely consistent, with 44% of registered voters saying they have a favorable view of the incumbent, while 44% said they have an unfavorable view. Another 12% of respondents said they hadnt heard enough about Baldwin to form an opinion.

Baldwin was viewed favorably by 40% of respondents in Marquettes June 2023 poll, compared with 37% who viewed her unfavorably and 22% who said they hadnt heard enough about her.

Hovde, who entered the race in February, has been working to build his name recognition heading into Tuesdays Republican primary.

While 85% of respondents said in June 2023 they hadnt heard enough about the Madison business owner to form an opinion, that number has since dropped to 38% in the most recent poll. But while the number of respondents who have a favorable view of Hovde has grown from 19% in April to 24% this month, those who have an unfavorable view have grown from 24% to 37%.

So far, people making his acquaintance have been more likely to form unfavorable views, Franklin said. Especially if you think about everything thats happened this summer, the Senate race really has been kind of lost in the turmoil at the presidential level. Once we get through the primary and get through the DNC, I think well see the Senate race fully engaged, but it will still be in the shadow of the presidential, of course.

Enthusiasm

While the race between Harris and Trump appears deadlocked, Harris entry into the race does appear to have boosted Democratic voters level of enthusiasm heading into November.

Sixty-one percent of registered voters said they are very enthusiastic to vote this fall, compared with just 46% in Marquettes June survey. Voter enthusiasm had remained between 46% and 49% in Marquettes four previous polls dating back to October 2023. In August 2020, 62% of registered voters said they were very enthusiastic to vote.

This is just the direct evidence of how much enthusiasm changed, Franklin said.

Many of those gains appear to have occurred among Democratic voters. Among those who say they are very enthusiastic to vote, 47% support Harris, compared with 52% for Trump. In Marquettes June poll, 39% of very enthusiastic voters supported Biden, while 61% backed Trump.

Now were seeing nearly equal levels of enthusiasm within Republicans and Democrats, Franklin said.

Asked who they think will win the presidential election, 51% of respondents said Trump is definitely or probably going to win, compared with 38% who said Harris will likely win.

In a hypothetical matchup between Biden and Trump, only 20% of registered voters said Biden would have definitely or likely won the November election, compared with 69% who said Trump would have won.

Even though the race is incredibly close in terms of peoples voting preferences, the perception that Trump has an advantage going into the fall still remains, Franklin said.

Photos: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz
TWIN FALLS  Idaho homeowners, growers and applicators will have a free opportunity to dispose of their pesticides later this month.

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is hosting two pesticide disposal dates in August, including one in the Magic Valley, and it will accept most pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rodenticides or anything ending with cide, according to its website.

The Twin Falls Highway District, 2620 Kimberly Road, is the site of one of the August pesticide disposal locations from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 28. The other disposal location is in Idaho Falls on Aug. 27.

According to the Idaho Department of Agriculture, there were about 148,000 points of pesticides collected in 2021, and about 125,500 pounds collected in 2022.

The department will host two other disposal opportunities in September in American Falls and Burley.
TWIN FALLS  Despite at one time facing 20 counts of permitting an animal to go without care, Wade Gridley wants people to know that he loved his animals.

His horses and dogs are what kept him alive, public defender Elizabeth Joyce Sayre said Tuesday during Gridleys court sentencing.

Gridley, appearing frail as he carried an oxygen tank into the courtroom that day, was no longer facing that list of 20 charges. All but two charges were dismissed, the two remaining stemmed from cases where horses hooves were allowed to be severely overgrown.

I didnt have their feet trimmed, Gridley told the Judge Jennifer Bergin, explaining why he was pleading guilty.

But the story runs much deeper than that.

Last year, Gridley, 69, lived in a trailer  loaned to him by a friend  on acreage in western Twin Falls County.

Deputies were called to the area in October near 400 E. 5700 N. after a complaint that horses were on Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument land.

The deputies found 20 undernourished equines so desperate to get water that some had worn their tongues bloody trying to get through inches of ice. His 30 dogs, without much food, apparently devoured the remains of horses that had died from sickness.

Law enforcement officers spoke to Gridley, who told them that he was on a limited income and his health didnt allow him to take proper care of the animals, court records say. He was trying to sell the horses, but prospective buyers hadnt shown up.

Deputies and Idaho State Department of Agriculture officials worked with Gridley for a month, and for a time the situation appeared to improve as a friend made sure the animals had proper feed, but a court order was signed and the horses were seized on Dec. 4. An ambulance was waiting for Gridley, and he was taken to a hospital to receive medical care. Gridley also allowed the dogs, mostly border collies and Australian shepherds, to be taken.

All but a handful of dogs were euthanized, while the horses, after being cared for for a time at the Twin Falls County Fairgrounds, had a brighter fate, being accepted by a Nampa horse rescue, which raised money for their care.

Gridley was sentenced to two years of unsupervised probation, and ordered to pay $10 per month for restitution, along with court costs and a $100 fine.

The $10 a month is not likely to add up to much, considering it cost the county more than $5,000 to care for the animals, Deputy Prosecutor Gabrielle Boliou said, but its all that Gridley is in position to pay. She declined to ask for a fine.

But Boliou did have another request, one that was harsh in Gridleys eyes. She didnt want Gridley to be allowed to own animals during the two-year probation. Sayre argued against the recommendation, saying it would be exerting too much control over Gridley.

Bergin, saying she recognized that animals can play an important part in peoples lives, ruled that Gridley would be allowed to own one dog.

While Gridley loved his animals and had made a career as a horse trainer and farrier, Bergin said, I think at some point we need to know what our limitations are.

Gridley said friends were taking proper care of the horses, which he said were worth $100,000.

They were over every other day  sometimes consecutive days  to make sure horses were fed, he said. He also said he was in the process of getting the horses hooves trimmed, but his farrier was out of state.

After a previous court hearing he told the Times-News that he believed ill-willed neighbors were causing his animals to become sick.

That claim was repeated in court on Tuesday, that people living nearby were putting minerals in the horses feed that didnt allow the equines to absorb nutrients, causing the animals to become malnourished, Sayre said.
Authorities in Kismayo, a southern Somali city, have launched a crackdown on Islamic face veils, known as niqabs. Police chief Warsame Ahmed Gelle announced that hundreds of these veils have been confiscated from female residents in an operation aimed at enhancing security.

The move comes in response to fears that jihadists could use the full-face coverings to conceal their identities and carry out attacks. This concern has been heightened following a recent deadly attack at a beachfront location in Mogadishu, which killed dozens.

During the operation, which began last Wednesday, officers stop women in the streets and force them to remove their niqabs. Women caught wearing the garment face potential jail time or fines. This enforcement is limited to Kismayo and its surrounding areas, as much of southern Somalia remains under the control of al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-affiliated group.

While the niqab ban was initially introduced in 2013, it has rarely been enforced until now. The crackdown has sparked debate, as the niqab is seen by many as a sign of modesty in Islam, the predominant religion in Somalia. Most Somali women opt for the hijab, which covers the hair but not the face.

This action reflects the ongoing security challenges in Somalia, particularly in areas bordering al-Shabab-controlled territories. It also highlights the delicate balance between security measures and religious practices in a region grappling with persistent threats from extremist groups.
The President of Guinea-Bissau warned on Tuesday August 6 that from now on, all citizens must pay vehicle taxes to the Road Fund, even if it is a general fund, to help maintain public roads.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo went in person on Tuesday to the headquarters of the Road Fund, an institution linked to the Ministry of Public Works, to pay the tax on five of his personal vehicles.

These vehicles are mine, they dont belong to the state, Ive come to pay the Road Fund, as citizen Umaro Sissoco Embalo, said the Guinean Head of State.

The Road Fund is subsidized by a tax paid for the use of public roads and bridges. However, in recent years, it has been neglected by citizens due to the poor state of the countrys main access routes.

The Guinean President said that this situation had changed as a result of the interventions made by his government in various areas of the country, particularly, he said, in Bissau.

If Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who is President of the Republic, has paid (his dues) to the Road Fund, there is no other citizen who wont, he warned.

The measure only exempts hospital ambulances and agents of the defense and security forces on duty, he noted.

The Guinean President urged the management of the Road Fund to reactivate, as of Wednesday, all the tolls that exist in the country, which are currently deactivated. Even if youre a general, if youre in your private car you have to pay, said Umaro Sissoco Embalo.
Tragedy struck the Wolaita area in southern Ethiopia as a devastating landslide claimed at least 13 lives, with the death toll expected to rise. The disaster, triggered by heavy rains, has forced the evacuation of over 300 people from the affected Kindo Didaye district.

Local official Samuel Fola confirmed that children were among the casualties and expressed concern about the unknown number of missing individuals. The regional government has launched a frantic rescue operation in response to the crisis.

While this incident appears less severe than a recent landslide in another part of southern Ethiopia that claimed over 200 lives, it highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the region to such natural disasters. The mountainous terrain of Wolaita, combined with limited infrastructure, makes the area particularly susceptible to landslides during the rainy season, which typically lasts from July to mid-September.

This latest tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the recurring nature of such events in the wider East African region. From Ugandas mountainous east to Kenyas central highlands, communities continue to grapple with the deadly consequences of flash floods and mudslides, underscoring the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response measures.
With the situation in Sudan fast deteriorating, the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has vowed to hunt down perpetrators of crimes in the Darfur region that has, in his words, experienced six months of misery and a profound human tragedy.

Presenting his latest report on the situation in Darfur covering the last six months, ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, told the UN Security Council that it has been six months of misery, six months of torment, a terrible six months for the people of Darfur, characterized by increased reports of rape, crimes against children, and vulnerable civilians. Describing Darfur as a very bleak place, Khan nonetheless noted some progress that has been outlined in the report, particularly because the ICC is investigating those who are aiding and abetting those responsible for the ongoing conflict in Darfur.

In early June, the ICC prosecutor said he was particularly concerned by the ethnically motivated nature of attacks on civilian populations, especially in the western Darfur region and called on people to provide evidence so the ICC could investigate further.

The information being collected by my office on a daily basis from Darfur seems to disclose an organized, systematic and a profound attack on human dignity, and I believe based upon the information we are receiving that we are on the precipice of something even worse, Khan said. This week, he stressed that the ICC is not a talk shop, expressing hope that in his next report, he will be able to announce applications for warrants of arrest regarding those, or some of those individuals that are the most responsible for what were seeing at the moment.
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More than 1 in 4 Americans 50 or older are now caregivers, looking after at least one family member or friend who has a health problem or disability, a new poll has found.

In all, 30% of all people in their 50s and early 60s provide care to at least one person, the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging found.

By comparison, only 23% of people over 65 are caregivers, results show.

The poll also found that 1 in 10 caregivers in their 50s and early 60s are juggling the care of three or more people.

"Nationwide, these data confirm that caregiving for family and friends who have health challenges falls unevenly on people in their 50s and early 60s, and women," said Sarah Patterson, a University of Michigan demographer who worked with the poll team on the new survey.

About 32% of women aged 50 or older are caregivers, compared with 22% of men in the same age group, the poll found.

The poll also provided more information about who needs all this care.

About 23% of caregivers look after someone with an intellectual or developmental disability, while 66% care for a senior with a health problem or disability.

The most common health concern that required caregiving was a physical disability or mobility problem, affecting 59% of those needing care.

The next most common were memory or thinking issues, affecting 42%, vision or hearing impairments at 28% and mental health concerns at 22%.

The results "show us more about the specific health issues and disabilities they're helping loved ones with, and about the need for more awareness of existing support programs for older adults and their caregivers," Patterson said in a university news release.

When asked who should be covering the cost of caregiving, 45% of people aged 50 and older felt the government should take the lead, while 27% said the person receiving care should pay. About 18% said it should be family or friends.

The poll also found that 61% of caregivers didn't know about Area Agencies on Aging, which are local or regional groups that offer support to caregivers, seniors and the disabled.

"We hope these data will help policymakers and others understand who is providing care," said poll director Dr. Jeffrey Kullgren, an associate professor of internal medicine at Michigan Medicine. "We also found that the majority of caregivers may not know about local or regional services that could help them or the person they're caring for."

The survey was conducted among nearly 3,400 people, including more than 900 caregivers, researchers said. The poll took place in February and March.

More information: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on caregiving.

 2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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dd-cfDNA levels according to kidney allograft diagnoses. Mean level of dd-cfDNA according to the histological biopsy results. Each bar corresponds to one histological diagnosis with its mean dd-cfDNA value. Each dot corresponds to an individual dd-cfDNA value. Data are presented as mean  s.e.m. The figure shows the increment of dd-cfDNA with active diseases (CA-TCMR, CA-AMR, active AMR, acute TCMR and mixed rejection (AMR + TCMR)). CA-TCMR, chronic active T cell-mediated rejection; CA-AMR, chronic active antibody-mediated rejection; FSGS, focal segmental glomerular sclerosis; PVN, polyomavirus-associated nephropathy. Credit: Nature Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03087-3

Findings from a study published in Nature Medicine show that donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA), also called liquid biopsy, has the potential for early detection of kidney transplant rejection.

The international study enrolled a diverse population of nearly 3,000 kidney transplant recipientsboth adult and pediatricfrom 14 transplantation centers in Europe and the U.S. The Department of Pediatrics at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis contributed one of the two pediatric datasets involved in the study.

When cells undergo apoptosis or necrosis, they release small fragments of DNA, known as cell-free DNA (cf-DNA), into the bloodstream. In inflammation associated with transplant rejection, dying cells release donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA). Researchers found those dd-cfDNA levels were strongly correlated with different types of transplant rejection, including antibody-mediated rejection, T cell-mediated rejection and mixed rejection. The study found similar accuracy in children and adults.

Often unnecessary and invasive graft biopsies are currently considered the "gold standard" in diagnosing transplant rejection, but dd-cfDNA could provide a non-invasive, accurate biomarker to reduce the need for biopsy.

Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis researchers Raja Dandamudi, MD, assistant professor of Pediatrics, and Vikas Dharnidharka, MD, MPH, professor of Pediatrics, contributed to the study, led by researchers from the Universite Paris Cite and doctors from the Assistance PubliqueHopitaux de Paris.

"Many studies of newer biomarkers to detect acute rejection in kidney transplants are not very large and cannot study various sub-populations, limiting their generalizability," Dharnidharka said. "This work was a very large international collaboration. The analyses demonstrated that dd-cfDNA improves the acute rejection detection beyond our standard of care monitoring, including in subpopulations of transplant recipients who are of African ancestry or of pediatric age."

Tarek Alhamad, MD, MBA, MS, professor of Medicine at WashU Medicine, contributed adult kidney transplant data to the study's dataset. Alhamad said, "This paper advances our understanding of the benefits of using cf-DNA as a biomarker for rejection and outcomes in the field of kidney transplantation."

While biopsies will continue as the method of rejection diagnosis, dd-cfDNA may improve early rejection diagnosis and enhance the care of kidney transplant recipients.

More information: Olivier Aubert et al, Cell-free DNA for the detection of kidney allograft rejection, Nature Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03087-3 Journal information: Nature Medicine
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A 66-year-old Texas man died of an infection caused by a flesh-eating bacteria he contracted while fishing along the Gulf Coast.

The man, identified to KHOU-TV as Randy Bunch by relatives, was crabbing and fishing in Freeport when he stepped into shallow water off a boat ramp to retrieve a crab trap.

His daughter, Brandy Pendergraft, of Pearland, told the news station that her father had not noticed a small, days-old scrape on his right foot. A few hours later, Bunch was in pain and went to the emergency room, she told the Houston-area outlet.

When the doctor could not find anything wrong, Bunch was released and went home, she said. By the next morning, he had a 104-degree fever and was disoriented. Bunch returned to a hospital, where doctors determined he had contracted vibrio bacteria.

"The blisters were taking over his whole body," Pendergraft told KHOU. "It was spreading. Just like a fire."

Bunch died in June, less than a week after he stepped into the water, his daughter said.

So far this year, Brazoria County has reported nine cases of vibrio infections, compared to seven in 2023, Cathy Sbrusch, director of the county's public health services, said in an email.

Authorities in neighboring Galveston County warned this month that an outbreak of the flesh-eating bacteria along Texas' Gulf Coast has infected nearly a dozen people.

Vibrio bacteria occur naturally in coastal waters, including salt water and brackish water, a mixture of salt and fresh water. It is found in higher concentrations from May to October when water temperatures are warmer.

Vibrio can cause two kinds of illnesses. The more common is caused by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. Symptoms include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and dehydration.

The other, potentially more serious infection occurs when an open wound comes into contact with coastal waters. Most of the cases in Galveston were the result of contact with water, a spokesperson for the Galveston County Health Department said in an email Friday.

Symptoms can include fever and redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discoloration and discharge of fluid around the wound, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In the worst cases, the bacteria can lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection in which the flesh around an open wound dies, which is why vibrio is frequently called a "flesh-eating bacteria." Such severe infections are rare and tend to occur in people with pre-existing conditions that cause weakened immune systems, health authorities say.

Galveston officials said in the release they are working to identify the source of the infections and implement measures to prevent additional cases.

The CDC estimates roughly 80,000 cases of vibrio occur in the U.S. each year, with more than half of those caused by eating contaminated food.

Vibrio infections have caused a handful of deaths in and around Texas. In 2017, a 31-year-old Dallas man with a chronic liver disease died after flesh-eating bacteria from the Gulf of Mexico entered his body through a new tattoo on his leg.

The same year, a 31-year-old Texas man died of an infection contracted while repairing Hurricane Harvey-damaged homes in Galveston, and a Texas woman died after eating raw oysters in Louisiana.

2024 The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Mom always said, "Choose your friends wisely." Now a study led by a Rutgers Health professor shows that she was onto something: Their traits can rub off on youespecially ones that are in their genes.

The genetic makeup of adolescent peers may have long-term consequences for individual risk of drug and alcohol use disorders, depression and anxiety, the groundbreaking study has found.

"Peers' genetic predispositions for psychiatric and substance-use disorders are associated with an individual's own risk of developing the same disorders in young adulthood," said Jessica E. Salvatore, an associate professor of psychiatry at the Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and lead author of the study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

"What our data exemplifies is the long reach of social genetic effects," she said.

Socio-genomicsthe influence of one person's genotype on the observable traits of anotheris an emerging field of genomics. Research suggests that peers' genetic makeup may influence health outcomes of their friends. To test this, Salvatore and colleagues used Swedish national data to assess peer social genetic effects for several psychiatric disorders.

With an anonymized database of more than 1.5 million individuals born in Sweden between 1980 and 1998 to Swedish-born parents, the first step was to map individuals by location and by school during their teenage years. The researchers then used medical, pharmacy and legal registries documenting substance use and mental health disorders for the same individuals in adulthood.

Models were run to assess whether peers' genetic predispositions predicted target individuals' likelihood of experiencing substance abuse, major depression, and anxiety disorder in adulthood. Peers' genetic predispositions were indexed with family genetic risk scorespersonalized measures of genetic risk based on family historyfor the same conditions.

Even when controlling for factors such as the target individuals' own genetic predispositions and family socioeconomic factors, the researchers found a clear association between peers' genetic predispositions and target individuals' likelihood of developing a substance use or psychiatric disorder. The effects were stronger among school-based peers than geographically defined peers.

Within school groups, the strongest effects were among upper secondary school classmates, particularly those in the same vocational or college-preparatory track between ages 16 and 19. Social genetic effects for school-based peers were greater for drug and alcohol use disorders than major depression and anxiety disorder.

Salvatore said more research is needed to understand why these connections exist.

"The most obvious explanation for why peers' genetic predispositions might be associated with our own well-being is the idea that our peers' genetic predispositions influence their phenotype, or the likelihood that peers are also affected by the disorder," she said. "But in our analysis, we found that peers' genetic predispositions were associated with target individuals' likelihood of disorder even after we statistically controlled for whether peers were affected or unaffected."

What is clear, Salvatore said, is what the findings mean for interventions.

"If we want to think about how to best address these socially costly disorders, we need to think more about network-based and social interventions," she said. "It's not enough to think about individual risk."

This research also underscores the importance of disrupting processes and risks that extend for at least a decade after attendance in school, Salvatore added. "Peer genetic influences have a very long reach," she said.

Co-authors include Henrik Ohlsson, Jan Sundquist and Kristina Sundquist, from Lund University in Sweden; and Kenneth S. Kendler from the Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University.

More information: Peer Social Genetic Effects and the Etiology of Substance Use Disorders, Major Depression, and Anxiety Disorder in a Swedish National Sample, American Journal of Psychiatry (2024). DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.20230358 Journal information: American Journal of Psychiatry
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"I saw everything," says 74-year-old Harry Stackhouse from Illinois, who was awake during his recent kidney transplant. He felt no pain as he chatted with doctors, examined the donor organ, and watched the surgical team staple him back up.

Stackhouse was discharged just 36 hours after the procedure at Northwestern Medicine, which aims to make transplants without risky general anesthesia commonplace.

Performed in a little over an hour on July 15, this was the second such surgery led by Satish Nadig, director of the Chicago-based hospital system's Comprehensive Transplant Center. He has since carried out a third.

"We're at an inflection point in transplantation today in being able to use the technologies that we have around us to really push us into this next era," Nadig told AFP.

It may sound off-putting or even scary, but the medical benefits of using a spinal anesthetic for kidney transplantssimilar to what's already done during cesarean sectionsare well established.

General anesthesia requires intubation, which can damage the vocal cords, delay bowel function, and cause "brain fog" that persists, particularly in older patients.

But while the medical literature mentions a smattering of awake kidney transplants going back decades across several countries, it's never been fully embraced.

This year marks only the 70th anniversary of the first successful live donor human kidney transplant, Nadig points out, and there's been reluctance to challenge the status quo.

"However, now the outcomes for kidney transplantation are fantastic and it's time that we question the paradigms that we have historically stuck to."

Life restoring

Stackhouse, a father-of-six who worked as a painter and decorator, says he first fell ill in December 2019 with flu-like symptoms, which worsened to the point he could barely walk.

A few months later he ended up in the emergency room, where he learned he not only had COVID-19 during the most dangerous early phase of the pandemic, but one of his kidneys had failed and the other was functioning at only two percent.

He resigned himself to thrice-weekly dialysis sessions, but as the ports began failing and his veins started closing up, his daughter Trewaunda urged him to consider a transplant, offering to get herself tested as a donor.

Initially reluctant to "intrude" on his children's lives, Stackhouse finally agreed.

After meeting with Nadig and learning about the AWAKE Kidney Program, which uses accelerated surgery without general anesthesia in kidney transplantation, he decided to go ahead with the procedure.

"Believe it or not, I didn't feel a thingit was amazing," Stackhouse told AFP.

He conversed with the medical team during the operation, and when the doctor offered to show him the donor kidney, he didn't hesitate. "Man, I didn't think a kidney is that big!" he exclaimed.

Given his age, Stackhouse was discharged 36 hours laterslightly longer than the first awake patient Nadig operated on in May, who left after 24 hours, but still much shorter than the US average of five to seven days for sedated patients.

Who will be eligible?

Nadig credited the success to advances like targeted anesthetic blocks in the abdomen and spine, avoiding opioid narcotics, and encouraging early eating, which had already helped Northwestern Medicine reduce patients' average length-of-stay even before the AWAKE program began.

Stackhouse has mounted an excellent recovery, reporting that he's walking, mowing his lawn, and preparing his boat for an overdue fishing trip. His recovery was even faster than 45-year-old Trewaunda's, who was under general anesthesia.

"It's just a gift that you can give someone, just to think where he was spiraling to, it wasn't looking good," the preschool teacher told AFP. "You're restoring somebody's life."

Christopher Sonnenday, director of the Transplant Center at University of Michigan Health, praised the Northwestern Medicine team for their "important innovation in our field."

"Limiting exposure to general anesthesia has been shown to accelerate recovery across all surgical disciplines, and I am certain that benefit may be realized in kidney transplantation as well," he told AFP.

But experience will determine how broadly applicable such procedures will become, including whether they will extend to patients with underlying conditions such as obesity or cardiac disease.

 2024 AFP
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It may now be time to ban artificial stonea firm favorite for kitchen worktops in the UK to ward off the incurable lung disease caused by its manufacturing and fitting, say a team of doctors in the journal Thorax after treating the first 8 cases of artificial stone silicosis reported in the UK.

Silicosis is caused by breathing in crystalline silica dust, and millions of people around the world are at risk of developing it as a result of their jobs in mining, quarrying, stone-cutting and construction, they note.

Made from crushed rocks bound together with resins and pigments, artificial stone, also known as engineered or reconstituted stone, or quartz, has surged in popularity over the past 20 years, particularly for use in kitchen worktops, they explain.

It has aesthetic appeal. It's easier to work with due to the absence of natural imperfections, and it's more resistant to damage than natural stone, they add.

But its increasing popularity has been accompanied by the emergence of a severe and rapidly progressive form of silicosis (artificial stone silicosis), largely driven by its high (more than 90%) silica content compared with marble (3%) and granite (30%), and the fine dust it generates when cut.

When worktops are prepared for installation, they are also often dry-cut and polished with an angle grinder or other hand tools without the use of water to suppress dust generation, further boosting the volume of fine dust, explain the authors.

Cases of artificial stone silicosis have been reported from Israel, Spain, Italy, the U.S., China, Australia and Belgium since 2010. But while artificial stone has been used in the UK for a similar period, no cases had been reported until mid-2023, when 8 men were referred to a specialist occupational lung disease clinic.

Their average age was 34, but ranged from 27 to 56 at the time of diagnosis. Six were born outside the UK and seven smoked or used to smoke.

Their average cumulative exposure to stone dust was 12.5 years, but ranged from 440 years. Four of them had been exposed to stone dust for between 4 and 8 years and estimated that 50%100% of the materials they had used were artificial stone with--in some--additional granite, marble, and other "natural" stones.

Two were assessed for lung transplant; 3 were assessed for autoimmune disease. Two were treated for opportunistic lung infection caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria.

All the men worked for small companies with fewer than 10 employees. Although none worked in worktop manufacturing or installation, they all carried out the finishing process, specifically cutting and polishing the worktops before installation.

They all reported that this was done without consistent water suppression, and without what they felt was appropriate respiratory protection. Even where workshop ventilation was present, the men stated that the system had not been serviced or cleaned regularly. None of them were aware of active airborne dust monitoring in the workplace.

Against medical advice, three continue to work with artificial stone, and have subsequently reported reduced exposure to visible dust after the introduction of powered respirators and water suppression. Two are no longer working; one has continued to work, but is no longer exposed to the dust; one has died; and one has been lost to further checkups.

"Onset of disease is likely to relate to exposure levels, suggesting levels, at least for some of the UK cases were extremely high and implying that employers failed to control dust exposure and to adhere to health and safety regulations," point out the authors.

"The [artificial stone] market is dominated by small companies in which regulation has been shown to be challenging to implement. Furthermore, at least some worktop manufacturers may fail to provide adequate technical information relating to potential risks. Even with cessation of exposure, disease progression has been noted in over 50% of cases over [an average] of 4 years. Prevention of disease is therefore critical," they emphasize.

While the number of workers exposed to silica dust isn't known, global experience indicates that cases are likely to increase significantly in the coming years, they point out.

Current UK guidance recommends monitoring workers in the industry after 15 years, but that is very likely to miss cases and fails to account for intensity, not just length, of exposure, they suggest.

"A concerted effort is required in the UK to prevent the epidemic seen in other countries. The cases we present illustrate the failure of the employer to take responsibility for exposure control in their workplaces. National guidelines are urgently needed, as well as work to enumerate the at-risk population and identify cases early," they insist. "The introduction of a legal requirement to report cases of [artificial stone] silicosis, implementation of health and safety regulation with a focus on small companies, and a UK ban on artificial stone (as introduced in Australia in 2024) must be considered."

In a linked editorial, Dr. Christopher Barber, of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, says that history is instructive, citing the observations of Dr. Calvert Holland in 1843 on the health of Sheffield cutlery workers.

These workers shaped metal forks using a rotating grindstone and developed incurable "grinders' asthma" as a result of the very high levels of dust generated by dry-grinding forks (without water).

Barber comments, "By design, [artificial stone] worktops (like grindstones) have a very high silica content to make them more hard-wearing and durable. Dry processing of [it] with powered tools without the use of water suppression, local exhaust ventilation, and respiratory protective equipment exposes workers to very high levels of airborne silica dust, in many cases two orders of magnitude greater than legal exposure limits."

Holland noted the vulnerability of the cutlery workers, and Barber draws parallels with those working with artificial stone.

"Many of those at risk of [artificial stone] silicosis in the UK, Australia, and U.S. are migrant workers whose first language is not English, who may have poor understanding of health risks, and limited access to health care," he writes.

They are also more likely to have limited financial options, forcing some to continue harmful exposures against medical advice, he adds.

"Considering the availability of [artificial stone] kitchen worktops, the arrival of [artificial stone] silicosis in the UK is one which has been feared by clinicians for some time," he says.

But UK doctors may struggle to differentiate the signs and symptoms from sarcoidosis, a condition that is unrelated to silica inhalation, but which has similar clinical features, he suggests.

"Greater awareness of [artificial stone] silicosis is also required among a wider range of health care professionals due to the increased risk of mycobacterial, renal, and autoimmune connective [tissue] disease," he says.

The UK is currently reviewing exposure limits for crystalline silica dust amid mounting international concerns about its health impacts.

To inform the current debate about permissible levels of exposure, researchers in a separate study reviewed for the first time the available evidence published up to the end of February 2023 to establish cumulative risk and identify the exposure level at which that risk would be reduced.

They searched for studies drawing on X-rays, post mortem examination results, and death certificates for silicosis, spanning an average period of more than 20 years since participants' first employment in the stone cutting industry.

Eight studies out of an initial haul of 52 met the eligibility criteria, involving 8,792 cases of silicosis among 65,977 participants. Six of the studies involved miners.

The cumulative risk estimates varied substantially, depending on which methodological approach had been used, so the researchers pooled the raw data to recalculate the lifetime cumulative risk and the level at which the absolute risk of developing the disease would be reduced.

The results showed that among miners halving cumulative exposure from 4 mg/m3 (equivalent to 40 years of work at 0.1 mg/m3 or 420 cases/1000 workers) to 2 mg/m3 (equivalent to 40 years of work at 0.05 mg/m3 intensity) of breathable silica dust corresponded to a substantial reduction in risk of 77%, resulting in 323 fewer cases/1000 workers.

The equivalent figures for those working in other industries were a reduction in risk of 45% and 23 fewer cases per 1,000 workers, down from 51. But, importantly, these figures are based on only 2 studies, highlight the researchers.

"There is current debate regarding respirable crystalline silica exposure limits in the UK and recent debate among miners in the U.S. This research supports the reduction of permissible exposure limits from 0.1 mg/m3 to 0.05 mg/m3" over an 8-hour working shift, conclude the researchers.

More information: Artificial stone silicosis: a UK case series, Thorax (2024). DOI: 10.1136/thorax-2024-221715 Journal information: Thorax
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Screening for P. berghei gene-deletion mutants with slow-growing blood-stages that retain mosquito transmissibility. Credit: EMBO Molecular Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00101-6

Scientists have successfully tested a new approach for a malaria vaccine in animal experiments. They used genetically modified malaria parasites that developed normally in the mosquito but at a significantly slower rate in the mouse.

When later infected with unmodified pathogens, the rodents were protected from severe illnesses and typical malaria symptoms did not occur. The results have been published in EMBO Molecular Medicine.

Vaccinations against the tropical infectious disease malaria are the subject of intensive research worldwide. However, there is currently no vaccine that is sufficiently reliable and affordable.

Scientists from the Heidelberg Medical Faculty at Heidelberg University, the Center for Infectious Diseases at Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) have developed a new approach and have already successfully tested it in animal experiments.

They used genetically modified malaria parasites, which multiplied so slowly in mice after transmission by mosquitoes that the animals' immune system was able to fight them successfully. An immune memory was formed that protected the vaccinated animals to varying degrees from severe symptoms during subsequent malaria infections. The findings could support the development of reliable vaccines in the future.

Dr. Julia Sattler, the first author of the now published paper, was looking for a way to prepare the immune system for an infection with plasmodia in the best possible way. "The pathogen develops from the so-called sporozoites, which are transmitted through the mosquito bite, via liver stages to those in the blood, which cause the severe symptoms.

"Therefore, a complete 'harmless' infection should work best, better than, for example, individual protein pieces of the pathogens," she says.

Slow development activates the immune system sustainably

Research in a gene database helped in the search for a "harmless" Plasmodium parasite: half of the parasite's approximately 5,000 genes have already been decoded and described to a certain extent. It is known which of these genes could influence the speed at which the parasite develops in the blood.

The team succeeded in generating 17 lines of the rodent parasite Plasmodium berghei, in each of which one of these developmental genes was switched off. Some of these lines actually developed significantly slower, but largely normally in the mosquito and the liver of infected mice.

Two lines were successfully combated by the mice's immune system. "These two main candidates for a vaccine were also the slowest lines. They took around three to four times as long to develop and multiply as unmodified Plasmodia," says Dr. Sattler.

The slowest line achieved the safest vaccination effect: In subsequent infections with unmodified pathogens after three, six or twelve months, none of the vaccinated animals died; they were either completely protected against malaria or developed only mild symptoms that healed on their own.

Transmission to humans challenging

The team led by Professor Friedrich Frischknecht, research group leader at the Center for Infectiology at the UKHD and scientist in the DZIF research field "Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases," is currently working on transferring the method to humans. The researchers have already produced two lines of the human malaria pathogen, Plasmodium falciparum, with a slower growth rate. However, Plasmodium falciparum does not reproduce in mice.

"Although we can produce the genetically modified human infecting parasites, they do not go through their complete development cycle in the laboratory. This makes it difficult to filter out the most suitable variants.

"So far, we have been using blood and cell cultures, but this is hardly comparable to the situation in living organisms," says Prof. Frischknecht. "We think our approach is promising, but there is still a long way to go before we can test it on humans. Nevertheless, it is already providing us with valuable information for the development of reliable vaccines."

Reliable vaccine urgently needed

About 250 million people contract malaria every year, about 95% of them in Africa. More than 600,000 die from it every year, mainly children under the age of 5. The pathogens are transmitted by mosquitoes and initially infect liver cells in the body. There they develop into an aggressive form that invades red blood cells, where it multiplies en masse and destroys the blood cells.

This causes the often life-threatening symptoms of malaria: recurrent fever attacks, anemia, vascular occlusion and even organ failure and coma. Sooner or later, the pathogens develop resistance to medication.

A vaccination would be better. But current vaccination approaches using fragments of certain pathogen proteins or degenerated complete parasites either offer only unsatisfactory protection against severe courses of the disease or are too expensive.

More information: Julia M Sattler et al, Experimental vaccination by single dose sporozoite injection of blood-stage attenuated malaria parasites, EMBO Molecular Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00101-6 Journal information: EMBO Molecular Medicine

Provided by Universitatsklinikum Heidelberg
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Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, some children fought off COVID with few, if any, symptoms, only to go into organ failure a few weeks later.

Most recovered after aggressive treatment, but their sudden illness, dubbed multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), remained a mystery.

Now, a team of scientists from UC San Francisco, Chan Zuckerberg Biohub San Francisco, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and Boston Children's Hospital has discovered what led to many of these cases, with a study that has implications for other autoimmune diseases.

The researchers found that the children's immune systems had latched onto a part of the coronavirus that closely resembles a protein found in the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes and GI tract, and launched a catastrophic attack on their own tissues.

The study, published on August 7 in Nature, offers one of the clearest connections yet linking viral infection and subsequent autoimmune disease.

"Thanks to our world-class team we've found an answer for how children get this mysterious disease," said Aaron Bodansky, MD, a critical care fellow in UCSF's Department of Pediatrics and lead author of the paper. "We hope this kind of approach can help break new ground in understanding similar diseases of immune dysregulation that have stumped us for decades, like multiple sclerosis or type 1 diabetes."

COVID's unexpected consequence in kids

As the novel coronavirus spread among millions of people, MIS-C cases mounted, affecting about one in 2,000 children under 18 with COVID.

Adrienne Randolph, MD, MSc, a critical care pediatrician at Boston Children's Hospital and co-senior author of the paper, tracked these cases and collected patient samples through a national network of pediatric ICUs she had founded called Overcoming COVID-19.

"Every time COVID peaked in an area, about 30 days later, there'd be a peak of these kids presenting with what looked like septic shock in our network of ICUs, except they were negative for all kinds of infection," Randolph said. "If we hadn't intervened and supported them, they could have died."

Treating children with MIS-C at UCSF, Bodansky noticed that it resembled Kawasaki disease and other rare pediatric inflammatory diseases that he had long sought to better understand.

Co-senior author Mark Anderson, MD, Ph.D., who directs the Diabetes Center at UCSF, suggested Bodansky try a tool that he and Joe DeRisi, Ph.D., president of Chan Zuckerberg Biohub San Francisco, were using, called Phage Immunoprecipitation Sequencing (PhIP-Seq), to see if it could uncover the cause of MIS-C.

PhIP-Seq screens blood for autoantibodies, or antibodies that mistakenly attack the human body rather than an outside threat, such as a virus. DeRisi, corresponding author and professor of biophysics and biochemistry at UCSF, had already used PhIP-Seq to understand severe neurological symptoms, as well as the link between viral infections and multiple sclerosis.

"We thought, could there be some sort of trigger with the immune system that leads to MIS-C?" Anderson recalled. "Thanks to Overcoming COVID-19, which our pediatric ICU was part of, we realized there might be enough samples to do PhIP-Seq on kids that had MIS-C and compare their antibodies with kids that had gotten COVID but did not get MIS-C."

A fingerprint of SARS-CoV-2 at the scene of disease

With the approval of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Randolph sent samples from 199 children with MIS-C to UCSF, along with 45 samples from children who had not developed MIS-C after COVID.

PhIP-Seq revealed that one third of the MIS-C cases had autoantibodies for an obscure human protein, called SNX8, which is present in certain immune cells that reside throughout the body. For some reason, the immune system was making antibodies targeting itself.

The scientists spent months hunting for a link between these autoantibodies and SARS-CoV-2. Then, late one night while looking at SNX8 on his computer screen with Bodansky, DeRisi had a flash of insight. What if the human protein resembled a portion of SARS-CoV-2's N protein?

"We ran an analysis here on my computerI did it myselfand it matched," DeRisi recalled. "It was the same thing. It blew our minds."

Next, the team screened the MIS-C kids' antibodies against proteins from the virus. The antibodies were targeting the very part of the N protein that matched SNX8. But antibodies from the healthy kids targeted other parts of the N protein that did not resemble a human protein.

The T-cell caper

The match between the autoantibodies, SNX8 and the N protein was a clear sign of an autoimmune overreaction.

But there was a hitch: antibodies can only go after threats that are floating in the blood. SNX8 is hidden inside of cells and would be invisible to them.

Anderson and Bodansky suspected that killer T cells, which screen the contents of human cells and destroy infected ones, were involved in this case of mistaken molecular identity.

Joe Sabatino, MD, Ph.D., UCSF professor of neurology and co-author of the paper, found that some T cells from the MIS-C patients seemed to target SNX8.

To prove that these T cells were truly attacking both targets, Paul Thomas Ph.D., professor of host-microbe interactions at St. Jude and his team carefully screened T cells from some of the MIS-C patients for matches with human SNX8 and the viral N protein.

Usually, doing an experiment like this is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. The body has so many different kinds of T cells that they need to be grown, or expanded, in the lab to find the rare culprit.

The MIS-C samples were different.

"Just taking these T-cells from patients directly, without any expansion, we found clusters of T cells that were specific for these two different target proteins," said Thomas, who is a co-senior author of the paper. "It gives us an overwhelming amount of confidence that this response, associated with the autoantibody profile, is naturally elicited in a subset of these patients."

Broad lessons for autoimmune disease

Most children who had MIS-C have fully recovered, and major ICUs now only see a few new cases each year, mostly in unvaccinated children.

By tracing the disease from virus to autoantibody to T cell, the findings point to a new way of investigatingand hopefully one day treatingautoimmune disease more generally.

"This paper is special because it actually finds the smoking gunwhat made these kids so sick," DeRisi said. "It opens the door to understanding why so many of these post-infectious, horribly inflammatory autoimmune events occur."

More information: Joseph DeRisi, Molecular mimicry in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07722-4. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07722-4 Journal information: Nature
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For individuals newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), both short and long sleep duration are associated with microvascular disease, according to a study scheduled to be presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, being held from Sept. 9 to 13 in Madrid.

Mette S. Johansen, from Odense University Hospital in Denmark, and colleagues explored the relationship between sleep duration and the presence of microvascular disease among individuals newly diagnosed with T2DM in a cross-sectional analysis. Sleep duration at night was measured using accelerometers worn for a period of 10 days and was categorized into short (less than seven hours), optimal (seven to less than nine hours), and long (at least nine hours).

Overall, 396 participants had valid sleep duration measures, as well as urine albumin/creatinine ratio measurement and eye examination (used to define microvascular disease). The researchers found that 12, 60, and 28 percent of the participants had short, optimal, and long sleep duration, respectively.

Within these categories, the prevalence of microvascular damage was 38, 18, and 31%, respectively. Both short and long sleep duration were significantly associated with microvascular disease (odds ratios, 2.63 and 2.29, respectively). Age accentuated the association between short sleep duration and microvascular disease for participants aged younger than 62 years compared with those aged older than 62 years.

"Age amplifies the association between short sleep duration and microvascular disease, suggesting increased vulnerability among older individuals," the authors write.

More information: More Information

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Family members of patients recently discharged from the hospital may have a higher risk of getting an antibiotic-resistant infection, often called a superbug, even if the patient was not diagnosed with the same infection, suggesting hospitals play a role in the community spread of resistant bacteria, according to a new study.

The study, "Hospitalizations among family members increase the risk of MRSA infection in a household," was published online in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology on August 7.

When recently hospitalized patients were diagnosed with the superbugMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection (MRSA)the risk to relatives living with them was even higher. The longer the relative's hospital stay, even without a MRSA diagnosis, the higher the risk to family members.

"Patients can become colonized with MRSA during their hospital stay and transmit MRSA to their household members," said Aaron Miller, Ph.D., lead researcher on the study and research assistant professor of internal medicine-infectious diseases at University of Iowa.

"This suggests hospitals contribute to the spread of MRSA into the community through discharged patients who are asymptomatic carriers."

Miller recommends hospitals enhance infection control practices, including testing for MRSA colonization, especially at discharge, even if there are no symptoms of infection. He said MRSA colonization and infections could be tracked among hospital patients and their household contacts to identify and mitigate transmission more effectively.

"This important study illustrates the risk of spread of resistant pathogens related to health care and highlights the essential importance of core infection practices," said SHEA President Thomas Talbot, M.D., chief hospital epidemiologist at Vanderbilt University Medical center. Talbot was not involved with the research.

"Hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and standard interventions to reduce Staphylococcal colonization are crucial to preventing the spread of resistant bacteria in health care settings,"

MRSA infections are known as superbugs because they do not respond to common antibiotics, making them difficult to treat. MRSA generally occurs in people who have been in a hospital or another health care setting, such as a nursing home, but MRSA also spreads in communities outside the hospital, usually through skin-to-skin contact.

Most people with MRSA have no symptoms, but the bacteria can cause painful swelling if it gets under the skin, and it can be deadly if it spreads to other parts of the body, such as blood or lungs.

Researchers used a large database of insurance claims that included 158 million enrollees with two or more family members on the same plan to learn about how MRSA spread after someone in a household had been in the hospital.

Reviewing 424,512 MRSA cases among 343,524 insured people, the study found 4,724 cases of MRSA being potentially transmitted to a family member from a relative who had recently been in the hospital and had a diagnosis of MRSA. They also found 8,064 potential transmissions of MRSA after the hospitalization of a family member who did not have a MRSA infection.

"It is important not over-emphasize the hospital stay risk," Miller said. "While we identified a significant risk factor for transmission in the household and community, the absolute risk remains relatively low."

People exposed to a recently hospitalized family member with MRSA were more than 71 times, or 7000%, more likely to get a MRSA infection compared to enrollees who did not have a family member who had been hospitalized or exposed to MRSA in the previous 30 days.

Having a family member in the household who was hospitalized but did not have MRSA increased the chances of a relative getting MRSA in the month after discharge by 44%.

The more time a family member spent in the hospital, the higher the likelihood someone in their household would get MRSA. If the patient was in the hospital one to three days in the previous month, the chance of a relative getting MRSA increased by 34% compared to people with no recent hospitalizations in their household.

If a family member was hospitalized for four to 10 days, the chances of MRSA infection in a relative were 49% higher, and with hospitalizations longer than 10 days the odds of relatives in the same household getting an infection rose by 70% to 80%.

Other factors associated with MRSA infections among household members included the number of other illnesses, prior antibiotic usage, and the presence of young children in the family.

More information: Aaron C. Miller et al, Hospitalizations among family members increase the risk of MRSA infection in a household, Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology (2024). DOI: 10.1017/ice.2024.106
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Credit: Patrick Howlett

Scientists have found that a worker's lifetime exposure to "permissible" levels of silica dust results in a considerable risk of developing silicosis.

New research led by Imperial College London has found that workplace exposure to silica dust is linked to an increased risk of the acute lung condition silicosis and recommends current occupational exposure limits should be halved.

Silicosis is a progressive incurable lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust. Millions of people around the world work in jobs where they are exposed to silica dust, including miners, pottery workers and those involved in the manufacture and fitting of quartz and granite kitchen counters. The UK's legal occupational limit is 0.1mg/m3 but there is a lower limit in some other countries.

An All Party Parliamentary group in the UK Government has called for evidence regarding whether current occupational exposure levels are safe.

The researchers, at Imperial's National Heart and Lung Institute, looked at all the available evidence relating to silicosis research, including studies drawing on X-rays, post-mortem examination results, and death certificates. They wanted to establish the cumulative risk of silicosis and identify the exposure level at which the risk would be reduced.

In the research, published in the journal Thorax today titled "Relationship between cumulative silica exposure and silicosis: a systematic review and dose response meta-analysis," the team assessed eight studies involving 8792 cases of silicosis among 65,977 participants.

The majority (six) of the studies involved miners. For this group, researchers found that if average exposures over a 40-year working lifetime was halved, from 0.1mg/m3 to the current permissible limit in the US of 0.05 mg/m3, there would be likely to be a significant reduction of 298344 fewer cases per 1000 miners, equal to a reduction of 77%.

While only two studies related to non-miners, the researchers believe this same reduction would lead to 933 fewer cases per 1000 of these workers.

Study author Dr. Patrick Howlett, MRC Clinical Research Fellow at Imperial College London, said, "This research supports the halving of legal limits over an 8-hour working shift. Although lowering exposure limits across different settings is challenging, it has been shown to be achievable. We strongly believe it is important to reduce the number of silicosis cases, given the severity of the disease."

The authors caution that more studies are needed among non-miners to understand differences between occupations. In particular, no studies link dust exposures to the risk of silicosis among artificial stone workers, who suffer from a particularly severe form of silicosis.

More information: Patrick Howlett et al, Relationship between cumulative silica exposure and silicosis: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis, Thorax (2024). DOI: 10.1136/thorax-2024-221447 Journal information: Thorax
A former Missoula doctor facing mounting sexual assault charges is back in Montana after being at an out-of-state treatment facility since the case was first brought against him, according to prosecutors and court filings.

Tyler J. Hurst, 40, is facing eight charges in Missoula County District Court, six of which are felonies. Prosecutors added an additional felony sexual intercourse without consent charge on July 25. Hurst has pleaded not guilty to all of the charges.

Missoula Deputy County Attorney Brielle Lande confirmed on Tuesday that Hurst is in Ravalli County, though he's on GPS monitoring and under strict guidelines as to where he can travel. Lande said Hurst returned to Missoula last week and was compliant with checking in to Missoula's Pretrial Services department.

RAINN If you or someone you know are a victim of sexual violence, RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is available to help. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 or chat online at online.rainn.org. RAINN is the nations largest anti-sexual violence organization, working in partnership with more than 1,000 local service providers. Online: rainn.org.

The women who have reported to law enforcement share similar accusations and experiences with Hurst, according to court documents. A common theme among their reports is that they sought medical care  all at the Community Medical Centers emergency department in Missoula  often with abdominal pain. They were seen by Hurst, who allegedly assaulted them while in private emergency department rooms.

Amended charging documents include allegations from 15 women in total, though according to prosecutors there are seven named victims among the eight filed charges. The states investigation is ongoing.

Many womens accusations stem from visits they made to the emergency department in 2023, but some date back to 2017, 2019 and 2022. The charge filed on July 25 is from a woman who reportedly saw Hurst at Community in late September 2023 for pain in her abdomen area.

Prosecutors, Hursts defense attorneys and the court have gone back and forth since Hurst was first charged in May about where Hurst should be held.

Lande and co-prosecutor Andrea Haney have asked the court to issue a warrant and set a $750,000 bond for Hurst, while Judge Shane Vannatta, who is presiding over the case, has maintained Hurst should be away from where the accusers live. He's cautioned Hurst might have the ability to post a large bond, letting him back out into the community. In charging documents, Lande argued Hurst is a danger anywhere he resides.

Hurst is not allowed to have any contact with the accusers. It's unclear where he'll be staying, but court documents from a July 25 hearing says he'll be attending a program at a ranch for 90 days, which he is not permitted to leave.

Early estimates from prosecutors predict that Hursts trial will take two weeks, possibly more, according to court documents. Hurst hired two private Missoula attorneys, Dwight Schulte and Jordan Kilby, as his representation. His next hearing is on Aug. 15 in Missoula County District Court.

Hurst is also facing a pending civil lawsuit in Missoula connected to sexual assault allegations.
Families across the country have long benefited from the ability to attend a public charter school if they determined that was the best option for their children.

Montana parents, however, have been stymied until recently when lawmakers finally stepped up. The Montana Legislature in 2023 passed two charter options for public education  HB 562 and HB 549. HB 562, the Community Choice Schools Act, is one of the strongest charter school laws in the country.

Public charter schools, called Choice Schools under Montanas unique framework, are tuition-free public schools that are publicly funded but independently run. Choice Schools are granted flexibility from traditional public school regulations to build a learning environment and curriculum that fits the needs of their students. Choice Schools are subject to a contract that includes on-going general government supervision, performance monitoring, and oversight.

If Choice Schools don't perform, they will be closed.

As they have done in nearly every state that has voted to launch public charter schools, the education establishment has sued to prevent implementation of HB 562 and deny families this important option.

This is why our organizations joined together to file an amicus brief in the case of Felchle v. Montana, to defend Choice Schools as an option for Montana families.

Its abundantly clear that Montanas Community Choice Schools Act (CCSA) is constitutional, consistent with charter school programs in other states, and will enable quality public education options for students. This is why were asking the court to uphold the Community Choice Schools Act and preserve this opportunity for Montana communities to expand the local public education system with student-centered Choice Schools.

Our amicus brief emphasizes three key points:

Constitutionality: The CCSA properly acknowledges the requirement in the Montana Constitution for the Board of Public Education to exercise general supervision over Choice Schools.

The CCSA properly acknowledges the requirement in the Montana Constitution for the Board of Public Education to exercise general supervision over Choice Schools. Consistency: The CCSAs framework is consistent with the understanding of constitutional requirements for state board supervision of charter schools in other states.

The CCSAs framework is consistent with the understanding of constitutional requirements for state board supervision of charter schools in other states. Quality: The data on similar schools in other states, including research from Stanford University, demonstrates that Choice Schools will provide equality of educational opportunity and offer a quality education to Montana students.

We conclude our legal brief by noting: "For over three decades, children across the country have attended public charter schools and became more successful students because of it. Charter schools have a clearly demonstrated positive effect on their students and the data continues to show a positive upward trend, even in states where the charter law contains broad exemptions from state laws and regulations. Based on this data, Montanas Choice Schools will provide a quality education because they follow a model that has led to academic quality in other states."

For example, neighboring Idaho has more than 70 charter schools and a new law was passed this year that makes them easier to operate. Discussing Idahos charter schools, Kimberly School District Superintendent Luke Schroeder recently said: You have to look at education for your entire community, not just your district. Its human nature to be competitive, but weve got to put our egos aside and see whats best for kids  At the end of the day, we just cant be territorial about education.

We believe that equality of educational opportunity guaranteed to all students by Montanas Constitution means an all of the above approach  traditional public schools, choice schools, private schools, micro-schools, homeschooling, and more. Were hopeful that Montana judges will agree. Allowing families more education options shouldn't be a controversial idea.

Montanans have waited long enough.
The ultra-rich have vast wealth, with the top 1 percent owning 43 percent of all global financial assets. Their influence on the global economy is significant, as their personal net worth can sway market trends and investment flows.

People in this stratum of society have the ability to capitalize on opportunities that most people never encounter. They have access to exclusive investment options, high-level financial advisors and networks of people that provide them with insider knowledge and lucrative deals.

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This elite group isn't just sitting on their wealth either  they're constantly looking for ways to expand it. Whether through venture capital, real estate or emerging technologies, the ultra-rich are always at the forefront of financial innovation.

Their strong sense of personal finance and investment acumen is what sets them apart from the merely wealthy. This strategic management ensures they have enough money not just to sustain their lifestyles, but to continually grow their wealth.
This week, the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital announced its 2024 Kid Captains, including a Muscatine 12-year-old.

For 15 years, UIHC, in coordination with the Iowa Hawkeyes, has used the Kid Captain program to honor its pediatric patients by celebrating their stories during Hawkeye games.

The bravery of these families is a testament to the powerful difference our care teams make in the lives of children every day. Our Kid Captains have faced some incredibly challenging health problems and have come out the other side stronger. It is our honor to call them our patients," Alexander Bassuk, MD, PhD, physician-in-chief of the Stead Family Childrens Hospital, chair and department executive officer for the Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, said in a public statement.

Among this years honorees is 12-year-old Lukas Hazen of Muscatine, who will be Kid Captain at the Iowa game against Nebraska on Nov. 29. He and his family have also been invited to Kids Day at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 10, for a special behind-the-scenes tour.

Were so proud and excited for him to be a part of this, Lukass mother, Jayme Hazen, said. Its an amazing opportunity for him, and we were elated when we got the call that he was picked. Hes spent a lot of time at the University, and itll be nice to be on the other side of things for once  to be able to wave at the kids in the hospital and not be one of them.

Prior to his premature birth at 34 weeks, it was discovered Lukas had multiple brain bleeds. After being born and transferring to UIHC, Lukas was diagnosed with neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia, a rare condition in which maternal-fetal platelet incompatibility leads to the mothers body reacting to the pregnancy with antibodies, resulting in a low blood platelet count.

As a result, Lukas was given double transfusions of platelets and blood. He then developed cerebral palsy, which affected his movement and vision in addition to making him more likely to have seizures. Lukas uses a wheelchair and assistive devices to help him communicate, and recently underwent hip reconstruction surgery and spinal fusion surgery to treat his scoliosis. He also regularly returns to Stead Family Childrens Hospital for checkups.

Hazen said she feels Lukas' selection as a Kid Captain signifies that he is a champion.

You read the biographies of the other kids who were picked, and you realize that these kids have been through so much and theyre all just little warriors who deserve the recognition, she said. Its just such an amazing thing to do for all of these kids.

This years Kid Captains were selected from 245 nominations from three states. Other 2024 Kid Captains include Carter Schmidt from Coralville, Atlas Coleman from West Des Moines, Mya Gilchrist from Center Point, Aiden Washburn from Keokuk, Haidyn Ulrich from Cedar Rapids, Hudson Ferris from Eldridge, Adeline Lovell from Clear Lake, Hunter Mickelson from Clive, Nataleigh Mochal from Oelwein, and Raelyn Miller-Ramirez from Davenport.

For those wishing to learn more about the Kid Captain program and its 2024 nominees, residents can visit the Kid Captain page on the UIHC website at uihc.org/childrens/kid-captain.

Half of schools in the US encourage use of gender-neutral pronouns for inclusivity Half of schools in the US encourage use of gender-neutral pronouns for inclusivity A handful of states educate broadly on pronouns in requisite sexual education courses
Police in Kiambu arrested six suspected robbers and recovered six police communication gadgets during a botched robbery at a house in the Ruaka area of Kiambu County. Security agents also recovered two toy pistols from the suspects.

Kiambaa Sub County Police Commander Pius Mwanthi reported that the men attempted to break into a house around 11 pm when an alarm was raised. The group had gone to the apartment and knocked to confirm the absence of occupants before breaking in.

To their shock, they discovered the owners were inside and ran downstairs as an alarm was raised, Mwanthi said.

The group then rushed out and jumped onto an oncoming matatu headed for Nairobi. Police on patrol were alerted, and the details were quickly circulated.

The matatu was intercepted a few meters away, and the men were flushed out.

The police also recovered house-breaking equipment from the suspects. Despite efforts to contain the menace, police reported that cases of housebreaking have been on the rise in the area.

Mwanthi mentioned that police are interrogating the suspects to gather more information on their activities. The suspects were detained pending arraignment.
Gen Z has issued a set of demands to media houses across the country in anticipation of the Nane Nane March scheduled for August 8, 2024.

In an open letter addressed to all media outlets, the youthful protesters underscored the medias essential role as watchdogs and a voice for the voiceless in society.

The letter reminded media houses of their critical responsibility, especially during the ongoing youth-led peaceful protests.

We want to remind you that you have a responsibility to act as the watchdog and the voice of the voiceless, particularly during the ongoing youth-led peaceful protests, the letter stated.

The Gen Zs also highlighted the importance of press freedom, urging media organizations to resist government influence and uphold their independence.

Article 34 of the constitution guarantees you press freedom. That freedom isnt a favor from State House but a constitutional protection, the letter emphasized. You should not act under the whims of the government or any state agency. You MUST be as independent as possible, they urged.

Constructive Headlines

Moreover, the Gen Zs called on media houses to adopt more constructive headlines that accurately reflect their push for positive reforms and national change.

We demand that you use more accurate and constructive headlines such as Pro-Good Governance Protests/Protesters, Brave Young Kenyans, Voices for Change, etc., the letter specified.

The Gen Zs urged media organizations to avoid labeling them as anti-government protesters, clarifying that their struggle is against poor governance rather than the government itself.

Kindly desist from labeling us as anti-government protesters, they remarked. We oppose bad governance, opulence among leaders, incompetence, corruption, unemployment, the high cost of living, greed among MPs (whom we call Mpigs), and Rutos pathological lies, they added.

Live Coverage of Nane Nane March

The protesters also requested live coverage of the upcoming Nane Nane event to document and expose police brutality and state-sponsored violence.

We request you to provide live coverage, a glimpse-by-glimpse account of how the protests will unfold in Nairobi and other parts of the country during the #NaneNaneMarch, the letter stated.

Your live reportage is crucial as it will reveal police brutality against peaceful protesters and the criminal acts of state-sponsored goons hired to incite chaos and falsely blame it on us, they explained.

The youth expressed their determination to fight for their rights and urged all media houses to fulfill their responsibilities by providing fair and accurate coverage.

Nevertheless, the Gen Zs warned against colluding with oppressors, asserting that the media must remain a steadfast ally in their fight for justice and accountability. We warn you not to collude with our oppressors, as you are and will always be our last line of defense, they said.

In their letter, the Gen Zs praised KTN News for its commitment to independent reporting while condemning Citizen TV for its lack of coverage of previous protests.

We applaud KTN News for resisting government intimidation. Similarly, we strongly condemn Citizen TV for failing to cover the live events of the July 23 protests, they stated.
Kenyan-based automaker Mobius Motors, supported by Playfair Capital, has entered voluntary liquidation after nearly a year of failed rescue efforts.

The company, known for producing rugged, low-priced SUVs tailored for the African terrain, decided to cease operations due to financial difficulties, as stated by the company and confirmed by a shareholder on Tuesday.

During a meeting on August 5, 2024, Mobius Motors resolved to enter liquidation under Section 393(1)(b) of the Insolvency Act. The shareholders appointed KVSK Sastry as the liquidator to wind up the company.

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the creditors will be held on August 15, 2024, at 9 am at Mobius Factory (Sammer Africa, Mombasa/Enterprise Road Junction, Nairobi), announced Mobius Motors director Nicolas Guibert.

He mentioned that during the meeting, they will consider and, if deemed appropriate, pass a resolution approving the shareholders nominee as the companys liquidator under Section 408 of the Insolvency Act. Additionally, he noted that the list of creditors and proxy forms will be available for inspection, free of charge, on August 9, 2024, at the companys offices at Mobius Motors, Block C3, Sameer Business Park, Mombasa Road, Nairobi.

Unsustainable Business Model

The company has struggled to settle suppliers and pay salaries as operational debts increased. Founded in 2009 by London-born investor Joel Jackson, who experienced the continents challenging roads while working for a forestry company in Kenya, Mobius found that tax hikes in the East African country rendered its business model unsustainable.

The owners considered relocating production to another country, but logistical challenges of moving the existing assembly line from Nairobi led to the rejection of that option, the shareholder added.

Mobius built 50 units of its first model and released Mobius II in 2018 and Mobius III in 2021.

Since its founding, the company raised $56 million over five funding rounds from nine investors. The first model, priced at $10,000, equivalent to about Kes.1.3m, was significantly lower than the market prices of standard SUVs in Kenya.

The company produced only 50 units of this initial model before launching the Model II, which was priced at Kes. 1.5 million.

The most recent model, Mobius 3, is priced at Kes. 3.95 million, excluding VAT.

Despite these efforts, the company failed to capture the Kenyan car market, which is flooded with second-hand imports from the UK, Japan, and other Asian countries.

It remains unclear how the company will address the needs of its customers, who will still require access to spare parts and after-market support for their vehicles.
A new coalition has been created in St. Helena to defeat the Noble House hotel proposal, known as Measure B, on the Nov. 5 ballot.

According to a news release, "St. Helena Vote No on Measure B is composed of local residents, community leaders, local business owners and influencers.

We are committed to protect hard-won community standards for development and are deeply concerned about the adverse impact the passage of Measure B could have on our community, said spokesperson Susan Kenward. We will provide the public, voters and decision makers with accurate information of the true impact of Measure B, the Agritourism Initiative, and unite around a shared vision for future sustainable development in St. Helena.

The ballot initiative would allow Noble House Hotels & Resorts, the Napa Valley Wine Train's parent company, to build a 56-room resort at Charles Krug Winery.

Decades of community work went into the preparation and recent adoption of our updated General Plan and Zoning Ordinance," said Grace Kistner, former chair of the St. Helena Planning Commission. Together, these documents set the stage for a sustainable St. Helena that controls growth, preserves the Citys historic and agricultural character, and protects our environment. To use the initiative process to override our communitys planning parameters is disingenuous, at best.

To join the group's mailing list, email sthelenavotenomeasureb@gmail.com.

Photos: First look at JCB St. Helena
Former Ottawa Mayor Robert Eschbach (center) celebrates receiving the 2024 Paul Simon-Jim Edgar Statesmanship Award with John Shaw, director of SIU Carbondales Paul Simon Institute, (left) and Former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar. (Photo provided)

Former Ottawa Mayor Robert Eschbach receives 2024 Simon-Edgar Award

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Former Ottawa Mayor Robert Eschbach was selected as the recipient of the 2024 Paul Simon-Jim Edgar Statesmanship Award for his more than two decades of visionary, practical and effective leadership as mayor and his continuing work to make his community strong, vibrant and optimistic.

Eschbach served as mayor of Ottawa, Illinois, from 1999 to 2019.

Former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar and John Shaw, the director of Southern Illinois University Carbondales Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, announced Eschbachs selection today, Aug. 6, at the annual dinner of the Edgar Fellows program in Champaign.

At a time in which there is great frustration about politics at the national level and considerable fear about politics in the international arena, its important to recognize that energetic and positive leadership is happening in towns and cities across Illinois, Edgar said. Mayor Eschbach has been a consequential leader in his community, combining a long-term vision with the practical skills needed to bring people together and get results. The mayor united his community, and together they have revived and rebuilt Ottawa.

Mayor Eschbachs leadership has been important and inspiring. He helped transform his city, Shaw said. Those who have worked closely with him marvel at his kindness, humor, optimism and drive  and his ability to close deals. Even after retiring as mayor, he has displayed remarkable leadership and civic commitment as a private citizen.

Eschbach is a native of Ottawa. He attended Illinois Valley College and graduated from Illinois State University. He earned a law degree from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign.

He returned to Ottawa after law school, volunteering on projects related to environmental protection, historic preservation, and downtown and neighborhood revitalization.

He served on the citys plan commission, zoning board and historic preservation commission before he was elected mayor in 1999.

When he became mayor, Ottawa was struggling with job loss and a badly deteriorating downtown. Eschbach helped draft a comprehensive plan in 1999, the first in Ottawas history, and later submitted a revised plan that won the 2016 American Planning Associations Daniel Burnham Award for Outstanding Comprehensive Plan. He also worked with colleagues on a floodplain plan that earned national awards.

He led a successful citywide effort to attract jobs, revitalize downtown, develop the riverfront, beautify the city and sponsor a wide array of festivals and cultural events.

The America in Bloom organization recognized Ottawa in 2013 with a special award for the most dramatic transformation of a downtown streetscape.

Eschbachs contribution to Ottawa was described clearly by the citys former chief engineer Dave Noble: The mayor had a vision of what he wanted the city to become, and he clearly articulated that vision and encouraged people to adopt to that. And that vision is contagious and excited people and makes them want to be here.

In his final State of the City address, Eschbach thanked the hundreds of volunteers who worked with him to revive and renew Ottawa. We are all ordinary people working together to accomplish extraordinary things. And we may have different titles and stations in life, we all share in a common heritage of self-government, and we all share in probably the most precious of titles  that of citizen, he said.

He was a founding member of the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation and serves on a number of boards including Landmarks Illinois, the Ottawa Reddick Mansion Association, The Canal Connector organization, Valley Immigrant Advocates, Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum, and Ottawa Center for the Arts.

The annual Simon-Edgar Statesmanship Award is presented to an elected state or local government official in Illinois who has demonstrated a pattern of public service characterized by vision, courage, compassion, effectiveness, civility and bipartisanship. The Simon-Edgar Award shines a spotlight on remarkable leadership that is taking place in our state and our communities, inspiring current and future public servants to act in the best traditions of Illinois.

Edgar, the 38th governor of Illinois, founded the Edgar Fellows Program at the University of Illinoiss Institute of Government and Public Affairs. Shaw is the director of SIU Carbondales Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.
Robert Broomfield, the associate instructor who teaches SIUs cremation courses, shows the universitys crematory. Photo by Russell Bailey.

SIU one of five organizations to offer crematory continuing education certification in Illinois

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill.  As the home of the only university-housed crematory in the country and one of six mortuary science and funeral services bachelors degree programs in the U.S., Southern Illinois University Carbondale is expanding its leadership in the field with a continuing education program for crematory operators.

Robert Broomfield, associate instructor, said SIU is one of five organizations in the state to offer a program that meets new state regulations for crematory operators to receive 2 hours of continuing education every five years.

This is a pretty big deal for us, Broomfield said.

At the forefront

SIUs mortuary science bachelors degree, the only such program in the state, is accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education. SIU graduates are eligible to obtain a license from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to become funeral directors and embalmers. Since the vast majority of programs offer associate degrees, this makes SIU graduates more competitive, officials say.

SIU offers one of just eight approved crematory training programs in the state, giving students yet another experience to add to their portfolio. A full cremation certification training course is offered as part of the regular curriculum for on-campus mortuary science and funeral service students, and those who successfully complete Broomfields class will graduate with their crematory operator certification, approved by the Division of Pre-need Licensing and Certification Enforcement (PLACE), within the Illinois Comptrollers Office.

Serving professionals in the field

The cremation continuing education course is a two-hour, self-paced class. The first class is Aug. 25, and a new course will begin each Wednesday thereafter. Details and registration for the Cremation License Continuing Education Course are available online on the Events and Outreach website. Information will soon be available on the mortuary science and funeral service program website as well.

In addition to leading classes for SIU students, Broomfield recently began teaching the full crematory operator certification course in-person for working professionals at scheduled times. Broomfield said numerous people can benefit from earning the credentials, including funeral home and crematory operators, vault company employees, and even communities, individuals or organizations that install crematories. People will soon be able to register for the online crematory operator certification course through SIUs Events and Outreach as well.

SIU also offers an online bachelors degree completion program in MSFS for working professionals.

Hands-on training and record of success

SIUs crematory was installed in early 2023. At this time, Broomfield said, just two other higher education institutions  a community college and a private college - have crematories.

All bodies that are donated to the SIU School of Medicine at Carbondale come to the MSFS program for cremation after their time in the medical school is finished. In addition, as a public service for local coroners who must find a resolution for abandoned bodies, SIU will provide crematory services for a nominal maintenance fee. The crematory doesnt offer services to the public or funeral homes though.

Along with the crematory, SIUs MSFS program features an embalming lab, a model selection room featuring coffins and urns, a space for practice funerals, restorative classes, preparation for funeral service counseling and green funeral services and much more.

The National Funeral Directors Association anticipates there will be a shortage of funeral service workers in the next five years as more than 60% of the countrys funeral home directors indicate they plan to retire, and there was already a decline of more than 1,100 in the number of funeral homes between 2010 and 2021, according to government data. The median pay in 2023 was $60,580, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

SIUs program has a 92% graduation rate, and 83% of graduates are employed in the field within two years of graduation. There are currently 143 students enrolled in the program, with 135 on campus and the rest enrolled as online learners in the bachelors degree completion program. Officials anticipate the crematory certification will further enhance Saluki employability as the cremation rate continues to climb in the United States, hitting 57.4% in 2022.

For additional information

Learn more about the Cremation License Continuing Education Course or SIUs mortuary science and funeral services program by visiting the websites or by contacting Anthony Fleege, program director and associate professor, at splash@siu.edu or Robert Broomfield, associate instructor, at broomr@siu.edu.
China refutes accusations by Philippines, Germany over South China Sea

Xinhua) 09:38, August 07, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A protester aims a weapon during clashes with police during demonstrations against the official election results declaring President Nicolas Maduro's reelection in Caracas, Venezuela, Monday, July 29, 2024, the day after the vote. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara) Fernando Vergara/Associated Press

Geronimo Lopez, chef-owner of the acclaimed Botika restaurant at The Pearl, closed his beloved restaurant Sunday after eight years.

The decision, though necessary, was bittersweet.

When I talked with Lopez last week, he sounded positive about his decision, even hopeful. He was busy with the details of closing and confident about his next venture.

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Things arent as hopeful for his native country  Venezuela, the subject of my call. Its less certain whether it can move on  given recent events that included a stolen presidential election, massive protests and the arrests of protesters as terrorists.

Voters look at electoral lists prior to the opening of the polls for presidential elections in Caracas, Venezuela, Sunday, July 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix) Matias Delacroix/Associated Press

Venezuela remains in a dark place since a July 28 election in which the authoritative regime of President Nicolas Maduro claimed victory.

Democratic nations, political observers, independent poll watchers and news sources universally say opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez beat Maduro with more than twice the votes.

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According to reports and independent examinations of a majority of voting results, Gonzalez received an estimated 7.1 million votes to Maduros 3.2 million. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pointed to overwhelming evidence Gonzalez won, and the White House recognized him as the victor.

Police hurdle a gas canister at protesters demonstrating against the official election results declaring President Nicolas Maduro's reelection, the day after the vote in Caracas Venezuela, Monday, July 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix) Matias Delacroix/Associated Press

So, Lopez, 49, who describes himself as politically active, had more on his mind than closing a restaurant.

He was worried about his mother, friends who remain in Venezuela and the protesters facing charges, even for their social media activity, he said.

Like other Venezuelans in San Antonio, Lopez is frustrated with the tepid response from the community of democratic nations and wants to see interventions that can restore democracy.

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The blatantly fraudulent election was a turning point.

The shadow of a motorcyclist beams through a barricade on Bolivar Avenue in Caracas, Venezuela, Monday, July 29, 2024, the day after the presidential election. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix) Matias Delacroix/Associated Press

John Cesar, 71, a San Antonian who grew up in Venezuela and longs to return, said people are really fed up.

The guy has remained in power for a long time, said Cesar, who recounted step-by-step Maduros corrupt ascent to power. This time, it looks like the majority of the people went out and voted against him.

Now were going to see, Cesar said. Were going to see if the people actually will fight back, and if the military whove been with Maduro, who have been part of this criminal syndicate, will actually turn around and say enough is enough.

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Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado speaks during a rally in Caracas, Venezuela, Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Cristian Hernandez) Cristian Hernandez/Associated Press

ELAINE AYALA: Kamala Harris was the answer standing right in front of us

Both Cesar and Lopez also spoke of the beauty and rich natural resources of Venezuela and the promise it holds for democracy, prosperity, even tourism.

But what theyve seen on television, social media and heard from home is overwhelming clear.

They have been so, I dont have the word in English, Lopez said, but in Spanish it is descarado.

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It means shameless.

For those in the United States whove called Venezuela a leftist nation, Venezuelans like Cesar and Lopez say such labels dont explain a regime thats neither left nor right but a narco government.

Lopez said thats what makes todays protests so different.

Supporters cheer for opposition leader Maria Corina Machado during a rally in Caracas, Venezuela, Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Cristian Hernandez) Cristian Hernandez/Associated Press

If you look at the videos, if you look at TikTok, on whats going on in Venezuela right now, the same people that used to be on the side of the government are protesting against it.

What we have now is a country that finally, sadly, understands that it is under a dictatorship, Lopez said.

The events there will affect the U.S. southern border and cities like San Antonio, where refugees and migrants often dont settle but pass through on their way to other destinations.

I always thought I could go back or retire in Venezuela. Thats not a reality anymore. This government is not going to go away, not without a fight.

President Maduro, in particular.

President Nicolas Maduro dances outside the Miraflores presidential palace after electoral authorities declared him the winner of the presidential election in Caracas, Venezuela, Monday, July 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara) Fernando Vergara/Associated Press

In the United States, hes facing charges of narco-terrorism, corruption, drug trafficking and other criminal charges. In the International Criminal Court, he faces crimes against humanity.

Several reports examining his potential options cited Maduros need for an exit strategy. In a just world, thats a trial.

In the meantime, Venezuelans here and there dont think diplomacy alone can work, but they believe international pressure will.

Otherwise, the Venezuelan people are going to keep suffering the consequences of a cruel dictatorship. More will migrate.

To survive in Venezuela these days, and I can tell you this for a fact, Lopez said. You need at least $500 (U.S. dollars) a month. Only 2 or 3% of the Venezuelan people have access to that type of money.

CARACAS, VENEZUELA - AUGUST 3: A supporter of President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro dances while holding a Venezuelan flag during the 'Gran Marcha Nacional' on August 3, 2024 in Caracas, Venezuela. President Maduro was declared as the winner of the 2024 presidential election over his rival, Edmundo Gonzalez. The result has been questioned by the opposition and internationally. According to the opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, the result announced by the 'Consejo Nacional Electoral' (CNE) does not reflect the decision made by the Venezuelans during the election. (Photo by Jesus Vargas/Getty Images) Jesus Vargas/Getty Images

Lopezs mother, a retired professor whos his only remaining relative in Venezuela, receives a pension that pays $20 a month. He sends the rest.

Ive done many interviews with immigrants just like this over the years. Despite harrowing experiences, theyre incredibly hopeful people.

They value voting rights. Even though they know their government will cheat, they believe in voting and democracy. Its inspirational. Its a lesson to all democratic nations, like ours, that is facing its own presidential election and its own example of authoritarianism.

Theres some reverse psychology in that stance, I think, a bit of in-your-face hopefulness.

CARACAS, VENEZUELA - AUGUST 3: Supporters of the President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro gather during the 'Gran Marcha Nacional' on August 3, 2024 in Caracas, Venezuela. President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro was declared as the winner of the 2024 presidential election over his rival, Edmundo Gonzalez. The result has been questioned by the opposition and internationally. According to the opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, the result announced by the 'Consejo Nacional Electoral' (CNE) does not reflect the decision made by the Venezuelans during the election. (Photo by Jesus Vargas/Getty Images) Jesus Vargas/Getty Images

The idea was always to make it so much in their face that they would appear as the naked king, Lopez said.

Dictators and cheaters cant cope.
SIU plans astronomical viewing events this fall, including Star Party

by Tim Crosby

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Southern Illinois University Carbondale will host a series of public astronomical viewings starting later this month and continuing through December.

Bob Baer, associate scientist in the School of Physics and Applied Physics and a coordinator of the viewings, said it's important that SIU host these as a community service to share the knowledge and facilities at the university.

It also helps us fulfil our community service and education missions, Baer said. Visitors will get a deeper understanding of the night sky and be able to see in detail features on the sun, moon and planets, and possibly some deep-sky objects

Highlights of the regular viewing season include a Sept. 17 partial lunar eclipse and a lunar occultation of Saturn on Nov. 10.

Star Party is Oct. 19

Officials also are planning the annual Southern Illinois Star Party for 4-10:30 p.m. Oct. 19. For that event, SIU will cooperate with Adler Planetarium and the Astronomical Association of Southern Illinois.

The event includes a free evening of guided telescope observations and family-friendly astronomy and science activities at the SIU University Farms Astronomy Observation Area, 2 miles west of the main campus in a semi-dark area that offers good views of the night sky.

Several nighttime and solar telescopes operated by amateur astronomers and SIU School of Physics and Applied Physics faculty, staff and students will be available to the public. Visitors will be able to see the sun, moon, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter and other celestial objects.

Visitors are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets as well as photography or telescope equipment to the Star Party. Free shuttles will run from SIU Parking Lot 63 at the corner of Oakland and Chautauqua streets throughout the evening. Parking at the observation site is very limited and available by permit only.

For disability accommodations, call 618-453-5738. Disabled visitors or those bringing telescope equipment that would be difficult to transport by shuttle may contact events@siu.edu or call SIU Events and Outreach at 618-453-7424 for a free onsite parking permit.

Other partners for the event include the DEB Initiative and SolarSTEAM  two research projects led by SIU faculty  as well as NASA EDGE and Johns Hopkins University.

Regular observations are held on the Astronomy Observation Deck, located on the roof of the A-wing at the Neckers building. Follow signs from Neckers 456 up the southwest stairs.

Here are this years regular observation times:

Sunday, Aug. 18, 9-10:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 8, 8-9:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 17, 9-10:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 10, 7-10 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 8, 6-7:30 p.m.

All observation events are weather-permitting, with space limited. For details, go to physics.siu.edu/events/astronomy.php or email physics@siu.edu.
Pediatric donor hearts are in short supply, especially for infants and smaller children, as few children die in circumstances that allow their organs to be donated. Matching must account for several factors, including geographic locations of the donor and recipient, immune compatibility, and body size. The matching system is intended to prioritize sicker children for transplant and to function equitably.

The current waitlist relies on a few factors to determine where a child ranks and uses only three categories of urgency: 1A, the most urgent status, followed by 1B and 2. Factors used to determine a childs category include what type of heart problem they have (such as congenital heart disease, which is present at birth, or cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle problem that typically develops after birth) and the medications they are receiving.

The team analyzed data from all 12,408 infants and children less than 18 years of age who were listed for heart transplant between Jan. 20, 1999, and June 26, 2023, in the United States. To see if the current wait-list system was functioning as intended, the researchers used statistical methods, borrowed from economics, that are typically used to study markets.

From the perspective of economics, we think about this fundamentally as an allocation problem, Sweat said. Weve got this scarce resource of donor hearts, and we want to make sure theyre going to candidates who can get the most usage from them. In the case of pediatric heart transplantation, with such high wait-list mortality, what that usually looks like is you want to prioritize patients who are sicker.

The team compared how transplant candidates were actually ranked on the waitlist with how the candidates would have ranked if the listing order was based on medical urgency.

They also considered whether improvements in wait-list outcomes aligned chronologically with the allocation changes implemented in 2006 and 2016, which were intended to create a more equitable waitlist.

Wait-list categories dont work as intended

One of the reasons the chance of dying on the waitlist dropped during the years studied is that children on the waitlist were also healthier in recent years: At the time of transplant, they were less likely to be supported with a ventilator, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (which works like a heart-lung machine) or kidney dialysis, the study found.

However, the medical status of children within each of the three categories on the waitlist varied widely. In fact, the three categories showed significant overlap in the risk of mortality, the study found. In other words, some very sick children were categorized as priority 2 while others who were not as sick had a 1A status, meaning a less-sick child was sometimes offered a donor heart instead of a sicker child.

Also, the three wait-list categories are so broad that less sick children were sometimes offered a heart before sicker children within the same category because they had been waiting longer, the study said.

Weve got this scarce resource of donor hearts, and we want to make sure theyre going to candidates who can get the most usage from them.

Experts agree that a longer wait should not determine transplant priority, because it can incentivize programs to list people early so you can build some wait time, Almond said.

Surprisingly, wait-list rule changes in 2006 and 2016 were not linked to rapid improvements in mortality, as you would expect if the rule changes drove the improvements, the team found.

Rather, mortality decreased gradually from 1999 onward, driven by improvements to medical care, including advancements such as ventricular assist devices  mechanical pumps that support a childs heart during the wait for transplant  and a better recognition of when to list a child for transplant. Over time, the gap in outcomes between patients of different races decreased, they found  a change that was linked to better outcomes overall.

During the study period, physicians also realized that, in infants whose immune systems are still immature, it is safe to transplant organs even when blood types dont match. Gradual adoption of this practice helped reduce wait-list mortality in the youngest heart recipients, especially among babies with type O blood, who were previously the hardest to match, the study found.

The studys findings suggest that the wait-list system should be revised to account for a broader range of medical factors than are currently considered  such as kidney function, liver function, and whether a patient is malnourished  and should use the combination of factors to assign each child a numeric risk score to replace the current three categories, the authors said.

The important thing is moving toward a continuous allocation score and refining it so you can account for the technological innovation thats happening in patient care in the meantime, Sweat said.

The revision should also account for whether a patient is healthy enough to benefit and recover from a transplant, Almond said. It would give the highest priority to children with the greatest need who have the best chance to recover from major surgery.

Its very challenging because if a patient is on full life support and their organs are shutting down, that person is very sick and may not survive the wait-list period. And if you transplanted them, those same risk factors mean they may not have a good outcome with transplant, Almond said.

In September 2023, UNOS implemented a new lung transplant allocation system based on a continuous score, and the organization is drafting similar systems for other organs. It plan s to have a proposal for how hearts should be allocated ready for review in 2025.

It is really complicated to figure out how to do this well, but it appears there is still room for improvement, Almond said.

Researchers from Stanford Medicines Departments of Pediatrics and Cardiothoracic Surgery, the Stanford University Department of Economics, and the University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine contributed to the research.

The research did not receive funding.
PNN Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], August 7: The All India Robotics Association (AIRA), in collaboration with the Telangana Academy of Skill and Knowledge (TASK) and the Electronics Sector Skills Council of India (ESSCI), announced BotSkilling and BotLabs initiatives today at T-Hub, Hyderabad. These initiatives aim to establish a comprehensive robotics education and research framework across colleges and universities in Telangana. Together, AIRA, TASK, and ESSCI have made the announcement that they want to train 1 million roboticists in Telangana in the coming decade. This includes scientists, engineers, trainers, manufacturing, service, and maintenance professionals. AIRA's CEO, Pallav Bajjuri, kicked off the event with an overview of AIRA's vision for India's robotics ecosystem. Addressing an audience of leaders from over 50 higher education institutions from all over Telangana, Pallav outlined AIRA's mission as "accelerating robotics by enabling innovation, education, and collaboration". Started in 2020, AIRA has been working with governments, educational institutions, industry, and robotics startups, connecting the dots to every stakeholder in the ecosystem. The event witnessed a panel of experts and enablers in the ecosystem including Ramadevi Lanka, Director Emerging Technologies in Telangana, Dr. Abhilasha Guar of Electronics Sector Skill Council of India (ESSCI), Sirkanth Sinha of Telangana Association of Skill and Knowledge (TASK), Mahankali Srinivas Rao of T Hub, Vinod Bothale of IN-SPACe and others. Shrikant Sinha, CEO, TASK: "Together, we are shaping the future of robotics education and skilling in Telangana." Dr. Abhilasha Gaur, CEO, ESSCI: "This initiative will drive technological advancements and contribute significantly to the socio-economic growth of the region. These initiatives will adopt to India's National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) to deliver industry-relevant skills." Rama Devi Lanka, Director, Emerging Technologies, Govt of Telangana, Emphasized the importance of skill development in robotics to meet the future demands of the industry. The event also witnessed the launched of Research Robot, a product of collaboration between AIRA and Anvi Space, a US-Hyderabad based space startup. The Research Robot is positioned as Raspberry Pi of robotics, a platform that allows students to tinker with software and hardware as a part of training. The goal of the Research Robot is to allow practical training leading to advance research and product development on college campuses. Kisshhan PSV, Founder and Chairperson of AIRA, handed over a research robot to Shreya Reddy, Director of MLRIT, marking the setup of a new robotic lab in their college. This collaboration highlights the tangible impact of AIRA's initiatives in enhancing educational infrastructure. Kisshhan emphasized AIRA's commitment to building a skilled workforce capable of leading India into a technologically advanced future. (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)
VMPL New Delhi [India], August 7: In a major step towards strengthening medical education in India, Thieme Group, the premier global healthcare education solutions provider with over 140 years of excellence, has signed a pact with National Medical Library's Electronic Resources in Medicine (NML-ERMED) Consortium, an initiative of Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, to license Thieme Group's medical e-learning platform, MedOne Education for NML's 58 member institutions. This unique collaboration between Thieme Group and NML will benefit over 5000 students, researchers, and faculty with access to MedOne Education's vast library of resources, covering around 30 disciplines in the undergraduate medical curriculum. Thieme Group's MedOne Education is licensed by 9 of the top 10 medical schools worldwide. The comprehensive collection of medical educational resources includes over 150 e-books, totalling more than 85,000 pages of high-quality illustrated content, 900 videos, 90,000+ images, 239 clinical modules, and 12,000 Q&A sets. Sharing his views about the association, (Prof.) Dr B. Srinivas, Director, NML, said, "We are pleased to associate with Thieme Group, which is a globally renowned name in the field of medical education and publishing. The integration of Thieme's MedOne Education will further enrich our online resources, accessible to member institutions all over the country and will significantly contribute to knowledge sharing and learning experience of our students and faculty. Thieme Group's reputation for quality and accuracy aligns perfectly with our mission to provide the highest level of medical education in India." Deepak Kumbhat, Managing Director(Country Head), Thieme India. "We are proud to partner with NML ERMED to bring MedOne Education's world-class resources to students and faculty in India. At Thieme Group, we are steadfast in our commitment to advancing medicine and enhancing lives every day. The partnership with NML reflects our commitment to supporting medical education globally and empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders in India. MedOne Education exemplifies this commitment by offering an unparalleled resource for learning, review, and research in medicine and the life sciences. Our tailored educational resources support the learning and teaching processes across all phases of medical training and continuing education. We will continue strengthening our collaboration with NML and remain committed to bringing the best of medical education resources to the Indian healthcare community." With Thieme's MedOne Education, NLM-ERMED users will have access to classic Thieme Flexibooks and Color Atlases, including the award-winning Thieme Atlas of Anatomy. Additionally, it will provide instant access to medical textbooks aligned with the Indian medical curriculum from renowned authors like Dr Vishram Singh, Dr Suresh Gangane, Dr G.P. Pal, and Dr Sanjeev Kumar Mittal. Students not only gain access to high-quality images and illustrations alongside engaging videos to enhance understanding and retention of complex medical concepts, but they can also create custom playlists tailored to their courses. MedOne Education offers students targeted practice questions tailored to both national and international medical licensing exams. It also includes real-world case studies, helping students develop critical clinical reasoning skills. Its unique feature MedOne@Home allows users to access the platform outside their campus library. Thieme's MedOne Education also empowers instructors to prepare for lectures and presentations better by allowing them to download images. Instructors can leverage MedOne Education's rich content library to create engaging and interactive lesson plans. Librarians gain a valuable tool to expand their digital resource collection, ensuring students have access to the most up-to-date and authoritative medical information available. Thieme Group has been developing and delivering quality medical education content globally for around 140 years. While Thieme India's association with NML ERMED is the first-of-its-kind for the medical publisher, over the years, Thieme India has collaborated with leading medical institutions such as AIIMS Delhi, PGI Chandigarh, and NIMHANS. Furthermore, Thieme is one of the few publishers shortlisted to participate in the One Nation One Subscription initiative proposed by the Government of India. Thieme Group Founded in 1886, Thieme Group is an award-winning international medical and science publisher serving health professionals and students for around 140 years. Headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, Thieme is renowned for its high-quality books, journals, and electronic products, promoting clinical advancements, publishes cutting-edge research, and supports medical education. With over 900 employees and offices in 7 cities worldwide, including New York, Beijing, and Delhi, Thieme releases 70 new book titles and over 130 journals annually. Focus areas include neurosurgery, otolaryngology, orthopedic surgery, and radiology. As a family-owned business, Thieme maintains rigorous standards in content and presentation. Thieme Medical Publishers India Thieme India was instituted in India in 2008 as part of the Thieme Group. A young and vibrant organization partnering with healthcare professionals and societies in India and South Asia for the effective dissemination of relevant knowledge, Thieme India has a growing publishing program of educational and clinical reference books as well as scholarly journals. As professional communicators, Thieme India also promotes the educational opportunities of its strategic partners. NML ERMED Consortium National Medical Library's Electronic Resources in Medicine (NML-ERMED) Consortium is an initiative taken by Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, to develop nationwide electronic information resources in the field of medicine for delivering effective health care. 70 state and centrally funded Government Institutions including all AIIMS are selected as its members. Founded in 1966, the NML is a central resource for medical professionals across the country. It provides access to a vast collection of medical and allied science materials, including over 7.5 lakh volumes of books, reports, and journals. The ERMED (Electronic Resources in Medicine) section specifically focuses on providing access to digital resources for medical education and research. This collaboration between the NML and its member colleges leverages the strengths of both institutions to enhance medical education in India. (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)
Invoking the need to make the free trade agreement or FTA a reality amongst the BIMSTEC nations, Union Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal stressed the need to review the FTA negotiations on Wednesday in New Delhi. "I heard somebody say, 22 rounds of negotiations have happened so far, that itself gives us a question mark, whether we need to pause and have a relook at the track we are going down on, " the Union Minister said. He further added that there must be something holding the countries back. The FTA negotiations might be getting affected due to the tariff or non-tariff barriers that are coming in the way of normal trade, he mentioned. The Union Minister also underlined the need to look at the effect of the other regional FTAs which might be affecting the free trade agreement negotiations of BIMSTEC. He also said that the member countries should work towards making "cogent recommendations" to take the negotiations forward. 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. CII in its recommendation said that BIMSTEC countries should finalise a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The CII paper further added that the move will 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, the CII paper recommended. 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. The GDP of BIMSTEC countries is currently about US$ 4.5 trillion but the region can achieve faster future growth rates through better economic integration. (ANI)
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to reply to the discussion on the Finance Bill in Lok Sabha later today. She is likely to speak at around 4 pm. The Lok Sabha has begun discussion on the Finance Bill after the Appropriation Bill for the central government's expenditure for 2024-25 was passed by the House on Monday. The passage of the Finance Bill by Parliament will complete the budget process. Presenting the Union Budget for 2024-25, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on July 23 pegged the fiscal deficit target at 4.9 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). The government intends to bring the fiscal deficit below 4.5 per cent of GDP by the financial year 2025-26. The difference between total revenue and total expenditure of the government is termed the fiscal deficit. The central government kept the capital expenditure outlay at Rs 11.11 lakh crore for 2024-25, as was announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her interim Budget, ahead of the General elections. A capital expenditure, or capex, is used to set up long-term physical or fixed assets. In 2024-25, it is an 11.11 per cent raise in capex. One aspect that always garners much traction on the Budget is what got cheaper and what got costlier. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as part of her Budget presentation proposed a host of tweaks in basic customs duty (BCD) for various products or items that are critical for manufacturing. The reduction for many would bring down the cost of various commonly used items. Post this Budget, imported gold, silver, leather goods, and seafood got cheaper, as duties were invariably lowered on them. A duty cut on gold would boost retail demand and help in curtailing smuggling in the world's second-biggest bullion market. Also, she proposed to fully exempt customs duties on 25 critical minerals and reduce basic customs duty on two of them. Explaining her rationale behind the indirect taxes tweak, Sitharaman said her proposals for customs duties intend to support domestic manufacturing, deepen local value addition, promote export competitiveness, and simplify taxation while keeping the interest of the general public and consumers surmount. Also, in what comes as somewhat of a dampener for stock market investors, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as part of her Budget speech announced an increase in both long-term and short-term capital gains tax. As per definition, any profit or gain that arises from the sale of a 'capital asset' is a capital gain. Sitharaman announced that short-term capital gains on "specified" financial assets will henceforth attract a tax rate of 20 per cent instead of 15 per cent. While all other financial assets and non-financial assets shall continue to attract the "applicable tax rate". Long-term gains on all financial and non-financial assets will attract a tax rate of 12.5 per cent instead of 10.0 per cent. On the positive side, for the benefit of the lower and middle-income classes, it was proposed to increase the limit of exemption of capital gains on certain listed financial assets from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.25 lakh per year. Listed financial assets held for more than a year are classified as long-term, while unlisted financial assets and all non-financial assets will have to be held for at least two years to be classified as long-term. Lately, the Finance Minister proposed an amendment in the Finance Bill to give big relief on capital gains tax in property transactions. The proposed amendment implies that taxpayers on property transactions can avail either a lower tax of 12.5 per cent without indexation or a higher rate of 20 per cent with indexation, if the property is acquired before July 23, 2024, the day the union budget was presented in the Lok Sabha. The taxpayers can compute taxes under both schemes and will have a choice to pay tax under the scheme in which it is lower. July 23, 2024, is now set as the cut-off date for the calculation of the capital gains versus the earlier cut-off of 2001 that had caused a lot of concern and triggered a debate over its impact on long-time owners of property assets. Further, to bolster the Indian start-up eco-system, boost the entrepreneurial spirit, and support innovation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her Budget speech proposed to abolish the so-called angel tax for all classes of investors. This was a proposal from the industry for a long time, and this announcement will drive more investments toward startups in particular. Startups function as engines of economic growth, playing a crucial role in generating new jobs, ideas, products, and services. As per definition, angel tax refers to the income tax levied by the government on funding raised by unlisted companies, or startups, if their valuation exceeds the company's fair market value. On July 23, Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024 in Parliament, marking her seventh consecutive budget and eclipsing the late Moraji Desai's record of six consecutive budgets. The interim budget, tabled on February 1, took care of the financial needs of the intervening period until a government was formed after the Lok Sabha polls, after which a full budget was to be presented by the new government. The budget session of Parliament began on July 22 and, according to schedule, will end on August 12. India is poised to remain the fastest-growing major economy in 2024-25, Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran said in a press conference after the tabling of the Economic Survey on July 22. The Economic Survey tabled conservatively projected India to grow at 6.5-7.0 percent in 2024-25. (ANI)
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted in Rajya Sabha on Wednesday that within the next five years, India's aviation industry will use 20 per cent of Bio-aviation fuel. "Within five years our aviation industry will use 20 per cent of bio-aviation fuel, sustainable aviation fuel and that is to be starting it from parali (Stubble) and the farmer will get the rate of Rs 2500 per ton for it" said Gadkari during a reply in Rajya Sabha. The minister also highlighted that now the highway ministry is using bio-bitumen in the construction of roads which is helping India in reducing the imports of the Bitumen. Bio-bitumen is a bio-based binder derived from renewable sources like crop stubble and is used to bind the surfaces of paved roads. "We are the largest road network in the world, 90 per cent of roads we are using Bitumens layer and Bitumens consumption in 2023-24 was 88 lak ton, 2024-25 which is expected to be 100 lak tan. In total, we need to import 50 per cent of the Bitumen and the annual import cost is Rs 25,000 to 30,000 crore" The minister highlighted that Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) New Delhi in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP) Dehradun has developed Bio Bitumen from the stubble. The minister stated that by contributing to the energy sector the farmers have now become 'Urja Daata' also. "Our farmers are now not only Anna Daata, they are Urja daata, not only Urja daata, they are Bitumen data and not only Bitumen daata, they are now Hawa Irdhan daata (Air Fuel)" the minister added. The minister also informed that a test section has also been laid on the Shamli-Muzaffarnagar Section of NH-709AD in November 2022 for performance monitoring for a period of three years to assess the suitability of bio-bitumen in road construction. NHAI has also contemplated a trial with bio-bitumen on the Jorabat-Shillong section of NH-40. Envisaged benefits of bio-bitumen are a reduction in bitumen import, reduced Green House Gas (GHG) emissions and opportunity for farmers/MSMEs to generate revenue and provide employment. (ANI)
PNN New Delhi [India], August 7: The Managing Director of Kedar Security Services has been honored with two nationally recognized awards, the Cluster Of Achievers Award 2024 and the Bharat Udyog Ratna Award 2024 for his dedication to the security services industry. As the M.D. of Kedar Security Services, a trusted name in the security services industry of India, Vikas expresses his immense joy for bagging the prestigious awards in Mumbai. The Cluster of Achievers 18th Edition award ceremony held on 29 July 2024 in Mumbai, celebrates as well as recognizes exceptional personalities and their achievements across various fields. The Managing Director, Kedar Security Services, Vikas was presented the award by the actress Malaika Arora for providing quality protection services through Kedar Security Services, including armed and unarmed guarding, cash transportation, event security, and surveillance. When asked about the country's security standards and community safety, the visionary Managing Director of Kedar Security Services said, "India lacks the proper advanced training facilities essential to handle diverse security challenges. Very few security training facilities in India follow a hands-on approach and invest in cutting-edge technology to mitigate potential security threats. Presently, India needs a pioneer in the security services industry like Kedar Security Services to foster a culture of integrity and professionalism and deliver exceptional security services." Kedar Security Services is doing exceptionally well in elevating security standards and community safety, and Vikas Chandra Dwivedi's leadership style has also bagged him the Bharat Udyog Ratna Award 2024, presented by actress Shriya Saran. The Bharat Udyog Ratna Award ceremony was held on 30 July 2024 in Mumbai and sponsored by ERP.BZ acknowledges the very best in business and honors the trailblazers and visionaries who are setting benchmarks. Vikas Chandra Dwivedi, the Managing Director of Kedar Security Services was presented the Bharat Udyog Ratna Award 2024 by actress Shriya Saran for his unwavering commitment to excellence in delivering state-of-the-art security solutions through Kedar Security Services as well as fostering a culture of integrity and professionalism in the security services industry of India. Over the years, Kedar Security Services' commitment to excellence has stayed undeterred by the security challenges serving as roadblocks. The acclaimed security services provider has not only achieved well-deserved honors at the national level but also established Kedar Security Services as a reliable and pioneer company in the security services industry. The talented team of security professionals working for Kedar Security Services have extensively researched advanced security training and ensures that every personnel is equipped to overcome security threats as well as challenges confidently. Aligned with industry security standards and curated with essential community safety needs in mind, Kedar Security Services' personnel's advanced technology-backed local initiatives and safety programs equip trainees with expertise to handle security threats of all kinds. The primary objective of developing and running such training programs is to provide the knowledge, motivation, and tools essential to help security personnel make India a safer place for the public to live. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
NewsVoir Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 7: One of the world's largest annual fintech conferences, the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) is back with its fifth edition. GFF 2024 is scheduled from August 28-30, at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. The theme of this year's conference is 'Blueprint for the Next Decade of Finance: Responsible AI | Inclusive | Resilient'. Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2024 is presented by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Ministry of External Affairs, Department of Financial Services (DFS), Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). The conference is jointly organised by the Payments Council of India (PCI), the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and the Fintech Convergence Council (FCC). Explaining the key objective and vision of GFF 2024, Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman, Axilor Ventures and Co-founder, Infosys, and the Chairman of the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2024 Advisory Council said, "GFF 2024 is more than a showcase of fintech innovations. It's about crafting a future that is equitable, inclusive, and resilient. In the context of India being one of the fastest growing fintech markets in the world, this conference assembles the leading minds in global fintech to surge ahead ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth. Our focus on responsible AI, inclusivity, and resilience highlights our commitment to building a responsible financial ecosystem that can adapt to and thrive amid global challenges." "At the heart of GFF 2024 is the belief that a responsible and inclusive financial ecosystem is imperative for global progress. Our theme this year is Blueprint for the Next Decade of Finance, which reflects our dedication to fostering collaboration, innovation, and ethical leadership in fintech," said G Padmanabhan, Former Executive Director, the Reserve Bank of India, Former Chairman, the Bank of India, and Member, GFF 2024 Advisory Council. Summing up the importance of GFF 2024, Dilip Asbe, MD & CEO, National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) said, "We are happy to unveil the fifth edition of Global Fintech Fest 2024 - a meeting ground for celebrating the remarkable advancements of fintech, spotlighting new opportunities driven by the surge in deep-tech innovations, and hearing inspiring thoughts of visionary leaders. This year's fest is not only aimed at nurturing global collaborations and addressing pivotal challenges, but also devising business models that promote inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability. GFF 2024 aims to promote innovation, and we are looking forward to engaging discussions and pioneering insights that will shape the future of the sector for the coming decade." Around 800 speakers, including policymakers, regulators, senior bankers, industry captains, and academicians, from India and various other countries will address more than 350 sessions over three days of the conference. Among the stalwarts from India sharing their insights at GFF 2024 are * Shaktikanta Das, Governor, Reserve Bank of India * T Rabi Sankar, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India * S Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY * Madhabi Puri Buch, Chairperson, Securities & Exchange Board of India (SEBI) * Vivek Joshi, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Government of India * Dr Abhijit Phukon, Economic Advisor, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Government of India * Nandan Nilekani, Co-founder & Chairman, Infosys Technologies * Atul Kumar Goel, Managing Director & CEO, Punjab National Bank * Sumnesh Joshi, Deputy Director General (Joint Secretary Level), Ministry of Communications, Government of India * Ray Harishankar, Vice President, Business and Technical Strategy, IBM Quantum Safe Global luminaries from the fintech and finance ecosystem converging at GFF 2024 include - Dr Florian Toncar, Parliamentary State Secretary, German Federal Ministry of Finance - Alexandre Stervinou, Director, Cash & Retail Payments Policy and Oversight Directorate, Banque de France - Harish Natarajan, Practice Manager, Financial Inclusion & Infrastructure, The World Bank - Jay Surti, Financial Supervision & Regulation Division Chief, International Monetary Fund - Daranee Saeju, Assistant Governor, Bank of Thailand - Dr Sidi Mohamed Dhaker, Special Advisor to Governor, Central Bank of Mauritania - Ana Maria Prieto, Head - Payment System Department, Central Bank of Colombia - Solomon Damtew, Director, National Bank of Ethiopia - Harris Mygdalis, Group Chief Digital Officer, Eurobank - Sirirat Jungwongsasin, Deputy Director, Bank of Thailand - Camilo Tellez-Merchan, Deputy Managing Director, UN-based Better Than Cash Alliance, United Nations GFF 2024 will feature over 150 international speakers from 40 countries, including the US, the UK, Germany, France, Singapore, UAE, and Israel. Delegates are expected from over 100 countries, besides India. The conference will also feature Investment Pitches and hackathons, providing a platform for fintech startups to present their innovative ideas to potential investors. This initiative aims to offer the startups international visibility and secure substantial funding from leading venture capitalists. Twenty thought leadership reports will be launched at GFF 2024. GFF 2024 Highlights 3 Days | 7 Tracks | 11 Stages | 300+ Exhibitors | 350+ Sessions | 800+ Speakers For more information on the conference, live agenda and list of speakers visit the website: Global Fintech Fest 2024. (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)
Till July, a total quantity of 2.60 lakh tons of onion had been exported in current financial year 2024-25, the government on Wednesday informed the Parliament. Government has lifted the onion export prohibition from May 4, 2024 and has allowed the export with minimum export price of (MEP) of USD 550 per MT and export duty of 40 per cent. "Till 31st July, 2024, a total quantity of 2.60 lakh tons of onion had been exported in current financial year 2024-25," Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, BL Verma in a written reply informed the Lok Sabha. Further, the union minister said his government had procured 4.68 lakh tons, majorly from Maharashtra, through NCCF and NAFED for the price stabilisation buffer. Buffer stock is maintained to meet any exigencies and for price stabilisation if rates go up significantly during the lean supply season. In comparison with last year, the price realisation by onion farmers in current year has been much higher, minister observed. The average monthly mandi modal prices of onion in Maharashtra between April and July, 2024 were in the range of Rs.1,230 to Rs.2,578 per quintal as against Rs.693 to Rs.1,205 per quintal for corresponding period last year (2023), he said. "The average procurement price of onion for the buffer in current year was Rs.2,833 per quintal which is 64 per cent higher than the procurement price of Rs.1,724 per quintal last year." India is a net exporter of onion and earns income from the export. The net export value earned by India for each of the last three years were Rs.3,326.99 crore in 2021-22, Rs.4,525.91 crore in 2022-23 and Rs.3,513.22 crore in 2023-24. The export of onion had been prohibited with effect from 8 December 2023 to increase domestic supply against an estimated 20 per cent decline in the Kharif and late Kharif production. The restriction on export helped the government in maintaining stable prices till the arrival of Rabi 2024 crop. The removal of export restrictions is expected to bolster India's onion trade and contribute to the country's overall economic stability. With favorable crop conditions and ample supply, the move is likely to benefit both domestic consumers and export markets, ensuring steady prices and ample availability of onions in the coming months. Rabi onion harvested during April-June accounts for 65 per cent of India's onion production and meets the consumer's demand till the Kharif crop is harvested in October-November. (ANI)
Packing school lunches can be easy for you and entertaining for your kids with a little practice and planning. Paul Stephen/Staff

Long before Braunda Smith was the face and culinary force of Lucy Coopers Ice House, she was the mother of six children. Those kids are mostly grown today  clocking in at ages 15 through 30  but Smiths days of prepping school lunches while running a restaurant is still a few years shy of cracking a cold one.

Smiths youngest, Jesse Lynn Smith, aka Lola, hasn't quite graduated yet. And mama bear isnt about to slow down now.

Chef Joshua Calderon and his daughter, Quinn, make pasta from scratch. Joshua Calderon

Lola is technically home-schooled, but thats only to facilitate her budding career as a ballet dancer. Lola spends much of her time in a dance studio, and Braunda wants to make sure her baby is well-fed between each grueling session of pirouettes and plies.

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"As a parent, I have to be very, very thoughtful about not only whats good for her mind for school, but whats good for her body for dance," Smith said. "When Im designing her lunches for the weekly prep on Sunday, Im always trying to come up with things that will keep her interested."

Lately, that mostly means salads. Southwestern-style, chicken Caesar, BLT, strawberry basil. You get the idea. Lots of greens, lean protein and just a kiss of fruit for flavor. Oh, plus Smiths epic salsa-ranch dressing  a medley of her restaurants scratch-made salsa and ranch dressing thatll make any salad kick sky high.

Chef Braunda Smith of Lucy Coopers Ice House has spent much of the past 30 years packing school lunches for her six children. Mike Sutter/Staff file photo

Smith is basically on the clock all day as a restaurateur, an industry that famously gobbles up anything even closely resembling a personal life. But that doesnt mean shes about to back down from taking care of her cubs. Theyve all benefited from her fastidious attention to detail and work ethic when it comes to packed lunches.

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"I want people to know that as a mom of six, you want to give your kids good food, and I think for the average person its overwhelming," Smith said. "But when you dive into it, its a miniscule amount of time to nourish your babies."

Smith has a relentless approach thats become muscle memory over multiple decades of making school lunches. For her, its all about organization. And that starts well before any pepper is sliced or a head of lettuce is shredded.

"We have a storyboard and know what our week is going to look like," Smith said. "Our moms were right. Go to the grocery store with a list and a plan. And dont deviate from that plan. Its a time-saver and its a money-saver. Its being thoughtful about what your kids need to thrive."

That doesnt mean salads are the only option on the table.

Chef Joshua Calderon cooks with his daughter, Quinn (left), and son, Rye. Joshua Calderon

Lessons on the plate

Chef Joshua Calderon has been a rock in San Antonio kitchens for a while now, emerging from the Culinary Institute of America program  his wife, Jenna, also earned a CIA degree  and numerous area facilities, including a stint cooking for the Spurs at the former AT&T Center. These days hes focused on his solo company, Catering By JC.

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Calderon is also a proud papa of four, ranging in age from 11 months to 7 years. For him, meal time means incorporating the lessons onto the plate. Every week, his family plans out meals for both lunch and dinner (the kids dont get a break from kitchen duty) tied to the latest geography lesson. For him, preparing the food with his kids provides extra instructional time, be it in the form of a math lesson through doubling or tripling recipes or a historical walk through another country.

"Right now were doing France because of the Olympics. Basically, what we do once a week, every two weeks, depending on the country with geography, we try to focus a meal and snacks around that," Calderon said. "It gives my kids the option of trying new things."

France means lots of baguettes and croissants, mussels and croque madame sandwiches. Calderon and his wife are styling charcuterie boards in the spirit of Lunchables, but all carefully selected with French cheeses and meats. Before that, it was all about curries from India. Recently, lessons on Italy found the family mastering tricky pasta shapes and gnocchi together.

Its part of a food ethic the Calderons subscribe to for themselves and their children: Do your shopping on the outer edges of the grocery store and avoid the processed goods in the center aisles, and make your food fresh with clean ingredients. With a little basic kitchen know-how, theres no reason to depend  or spend  on fabricated products such as the burgers and chicken tenders that dominate the school lunch table scene.

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"Once you start going down those aisles, thats where things get tricky. You look at that label and go, 'wow,' " Calderon said, acknowledging fresh and organic products can cost a bit more at checkout. "That expense to me for my kids and a lifetime of health is worth every penny."

Preparation is key

For both Smith and Calderon, any kind of school lunch menu can work if you go into the week prepared. In Smith's household, that means setting aside time every Sunday to shop, stock the home pantry and prepare all the lunches right away. That includes repackaging things such as salad greens, which are often sealed in plastic bags flushed with nitrogen to extend shelf life, into reusable containers that are easy to identify and store.

Smith has thoughts on containers, and she's not afraid to share them. She doesn't buy anything fancy. Most of them are plastic and come from her neighborhood H-E-B. Occasionally, she'll use glass containers with lids that snap on because, she says, glass tends to keep its cool longer for things such as salads.

"I love containers. I really do," Smith said. "I love organization because my life is so chaotic. I like to be able to go and see what Im doing."

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By the time everyone gathers for Sunday supper, Lola won't have to worry about a single meal in the coming days.

"One entire shelf in the refrigerator is dedicated to her," Smith said. "Everything she needs for the week lives right there."

Lucy Cooper's Ice House chef and owner Braunda Smith says her Southwestern Chicken Salad is one of her daughter's favorites. Paul Stephen/Staff

Braunda Smith's Southwestern Chicken Salad

1 pound chicken breast, sliced or cubed

Southwestern seasoning of choice

1 teaspoon avocado oil

Salsa of choice

Ranch dressing of choice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 ear of corn, shucked

1 small head iceberg lettuce, chopped

2 cups mixed greens

1/2 cup shredded red cabbage

1/2 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup baby bell peppers, seeded and sliced thin

Tortilla chips

2-4 pouches Capri-Sun juice, frozen (see Note)

Instructions: Season the chicken with the Southwestern seasoning to taste. Heat the avocado oil in a skillet over a medium-high flame. Saute the chicken until cooked through, about 10 minutes. Set the chicken aside to cool.

For the dressing, Smith uses the house-made salsa and ranch dressing from her restaurant, but your favorites, either made from scratch or bought off the shelf, will also work. Stir together two parts ranch to one part salsa and set aside.

With the corn, you can follow Smith's approach, or keep it simple. She blisters the kernels with a blowtorch to provide a pleasing charred appearance and smoky flavor before slicing them from the cob. You could also slice the kernels off first, and give them a quick sear in a skillet. Either way, once the corn is cooked, set it aside to cool.

Layer the lettuce, greens, other vegetables and chicken into a sealable container. Top with dressing and crushed tortilla chips before serving.

Note: Use the Capri-Sun pouch as an ice package. By the time lunch rolls around, it will have thawed into a slushy texture providing a fun and refreshing sip on the side.

Makes 2 large or 4 small salads
Selena Gomez has revealed the touching gesture she received from her co-stars, Steve Martin and Martin Short, after her recent Emmy nomination. The 32-year-old actress, nominated for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in 'Only Murders in the Building', shared her insights with The Hollywood Reporter. Gomez disclosed that Martin and Short sent her a bouquet of flowers to celebrate her achievement. "I received flowers from Martin Short and Steve Martin," she told the Hollywood Reporter. "I'm in LA, Marty's always all over the world, and Steve is in New York. So, obviously, we can't be together, but we'll celebrate when we get back together again," she added. Reflecting on the nomination, Gomez described it as "crazy" and expressed her gratitude for being part of a show that received such recognition. "I was just honoured to be on such a show that was recognised. I feel so lucky, because there are so many great shows, and to even be considered, to have an opportunity like this, is such an honour," she said, adding, "In my mind, I feel like I already won." In a recent Instagram post, Gomez shared a nostalgic photo of herself with Martin, 78, and Short, 74, as she approached her 32nd birthday on July 22. She wrote, "Upon reflection, I realise with my birthday coming up, 32, I am so grateful that I have been surrounded by human beings that make me better, challenge me, remind me day after day that every moment is a gift." She added, "That's my pure joy. I thank God for the era I'm in. It's been the best yet." Earlier this year, Martin and Short praised Gomez's talents and work ethic in an interview with People magazine. "I think it just gets deeper and deeper and deeper," Short remarked about their friendship with Gomez. "She is so lovely as a human, she's so remarkable as a talent, and she just has an aura and this lovely spirit. Our friendship grows and grows," he added. Martin also highlighted Gomez's professionalism, saying, "We didn't really know Selena, we didn't know what we're getting into." Martin said. "I knew she has a fabulous personality, she's very smart. But she is never late." Short concurred, noting the importance of punctuality in their profession. "And that's a very big deal when you're making a movie," Martin said, adding, "She is on the mark... We all march down the steps together. It's fabulous. But it gives you an insight into her own personality and professionalism." 'Only Murders in the Building' season 4 is set to premiere on August 27 on Hulu. (ANI)
Award-winning actress Kate Winslet recently opened up about an unsettling experience during the filming of her upcoming movie 'Lee,' where she was urged to hide her natural physique. Page Six reported that during a recent interview, Winslet revealed that during a swimsuit scene as she portrayed real-life war journalist Lee Miller, a crew member suggested she should "sit up straighter" to conceal what they referred to as "belly rolls." Recounting the incident, Winslet defiantly responded, "So you can't see my belly rolls? Not on your life!" The 48-year-old actress disclosed that she deliberately avoided intense workouts before filming to maintain a softer physique suited to her character. When asked if she minded her body appearing "less-than-perfect" on screen, Winslet replied, "The opposite. I take pride in it because it is my life on my face, and that matters. It wouldn't occur to me to cover that up." Winslet has long been an advocate for body positivity and self-acceptance, despite facing bullying in her youth due to her weight. She recalled incidents from her school days where she was teased for being "chubby," and how she was labeled "Blubber" by classmates, according to Page Six. Throughout her career, starting from the days following her global stardom in 'Titanic,' Winslet's fluctuating weight became a frequent tabloid topic. According to Page Six, in 2003, she publicly criticized a magazine for digitally altering her image on their cover to appear thinner, a move that sparked conversation about media manipulation of women's bodies. In more recent years, Winslet has actively resisted such pressures. In 2021, during filming for 'Mare of Easttown,' she insisted that her body remain unedited in a pivotal intimate scene. Page Six reported that in an earlier interview, Winslet expressed optimism about societal progress in embracing diverse body types, remarking, "I do feel a huge sense of relief that women are so much more accepting of themselves and refusing to be judged." Reflecting on generational influences on body image, Winslet noted the impact of her mother's self-perception and vowed to break the cycle of self-criticism. "We waste so much time being down on ourselves and I'm just not doing it ever again," she asserted. Her upcoming film 'Lee' is scheduled to premiere in British and Irish cinemas on September 13, 2024. (ANI)
During the meeting, Chief Minister Dhami spoke about the potential for film shooting in Uttarakhand.

He said, "There are immense possibilities of film shooting in the state. The government is continuously working to promote film shooting in the state. For this, a provision of subsidy has also been introduced on film production in Uttarakhand."

Yadav is well-known for his comic roles in films such as 'Hungama', 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa', and 'Chup Chup Ke.'

The actor will be next seen in 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3' which is helmed by Anees Bazmee and stars Triptii Dimri alongside Kartik Aaryan.

Scheduled for a Diwali 2024 release, the film also marks Vidya Balan's return to the franchise. She essayed the iconic role of Manjulika in the 2007 blockbuster.

Directed by Priyadarshan in its first iteration and later by Anees Bazmee for the sequels, 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' has been a favourite among audiences for its blend of psychological horror and comedy. (ANI)
In an unprecedented display of musical and national pride, Ricky Kej, the celebrated Indian music composer and three-time Grammy Award winner, has set a new Guinness World Record with his latest rendition of the Indian National Anthem. This new version has captivated audiences worldwide and achieved a historic milestone in the realm of music. The path to this achievement began with Kej's collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of the United Kingdom. Premiered at Abbey Road Studios in London last year, this orchestral performance garnered significant acclaim and drew attention from the Honorable Prime Minister of India. Reflecting on the journey, Kej noted, "Last year's orchestral rendition was a pinnacle moment for me. Little did I know that it would spark a journey towards an even more profound musical interpretation of our National Anthem." This year, Kej sought to infuse deeper Indian cultural elements into the anthem. He expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming release in an interview with ANI, saying, "I am really excited that we are gonna be releasing a new version of the national anthem this Independence Day." Kej's ambitious project involved collaborating with some of India's most esteemed classical musicians, including Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Rakesh Chaurasia, Rahul Sharma, Amaan and Ayaan Ali Khan, and Jayanthi Kumaresh. This collaboration has produced a rendition that combines traditional Indian music with the grandeur of a symphonic orchestra. "We brought together the best classical musicians from both North and South India to create a beautiful interpretation of the national anthem," Kej explained. His vision extended beyond musical innovation to creating a significant social impact. This led to a groundbreaking recording session at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. In this session, 14,000 tribal children participated in what Guinness World Records has recognised as the largest singing lesson ever conducted. Kej described the experience, saying, "We organised 14,000 students for a music lesson, culminating in them singing four-part harmonies of the national anthem." The logistical challenges of setting up a stadium as a recording studio with over 200 microphones were substantial, but Kej found the process deeply fulfilling. Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, praised the initiative, stating, "This record is a remarkable milestone for our institution and a reflection of our children's dedication to making a positive impact." The resulting anthem recording not only celebrates musical excellence but also embodies India's rich cultural heritage. The accompanying video features the children forming a human map of India and the word 'Bharat', symbolising the unity and diversity of the nation. Kej's connection to the national anthem is deeply personal. "The national anthem was the first piece of music I ever learnt as a child," he shared, recalling how his parents instilled a sense of patriotism in him. In addition to the historic recording, Kej has collaborated with VR filmmaker Sairam Sagiraju and developers Krishnaprasad Jagadish and Raksha Rao to create a virtual reality experience of the anthem, allowing viewers to engage with the recording process in an immersive way. The anthem will be released by Universal Music India on the eve of India's Independence Day across all major streaming platforms, ensuring that this remarkable tribute to Bharat reaches audiences globally. (ANI)
Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev on Tuesday condemned the targeted attacks on houses, temples and business establishments of Hindus in Bangladesh, and urged the Centre to do all it can diplomatically and politically to protect the Hindu minority in the neighbouring country. He also expressed his concerns over the safety of Hindus living in Bangladesh amid the country's political unrest, which includes student protests and the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. "The way fundamentalist forces are carrying out well-planned attacks on Hindu homes, temples, and businesses in Bangladesh is both shameful and dangerous," Ramdev told ANI. "I fear that India will need to remain vigilant so that the honour and dignity of the mothers, sisters and daughters of our Hindu brothers are not at stake. The entire country will have to stand with its minority Hindu brothers with full strength," he said. Ramdev added that India should make diplomatic and political efforts to prevent major incidents and, if necessary, intervene to protect Hindus in Bangladesh. "We helped create Bangladesh; if we can create Bangladesh, we must show our strength in protecting Hindus living there," Ramdev said. He also alleged that some individuals in India are trying to incite similar unrest within the country under the guise of caste, religion, and reservation issues. "It is unfortunate that some politicians, religious extremists, and certain YouTubers are attempting to create similar unrest in India in the name of caste, religion, reservation, and the Constitution, threatening the nation's unity and integrity. We must counter these efforts with strength," he said. Meanwhile, several former diplomats and experts have expressed concern about the situation in Bangladesh, urging the Indian government to stay vigilant. They have warned of a huge influx of migrants from Bangladesh and raised suspicions about possible foreign involvement in the unrest. The student protests in Bangladesh, initially demanding an end to the civil service quota, escalated into major anti-government demonstrations, leading to PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation and departure from the country. Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday. (ANI)
The meeting took place at Union Home Minister Amit Shah's residence in Delhi.

In attendance were Amit Shah, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, state election in-charges Dharmendra Pradhan and Biplav Dev, senior BJP leaders from the state, and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

The Haryana assembly election is scheduled for later this year. The BJP has been in power in the state since 2014 but will face strong competition from the Congress, which won half of the Lok Sabha seats in Haryana during the last general election.

Recently, Nayab Singh Saini has introduced several measures in preparation for the election.

Earlier this week, the state government decided to provide reservations for Backward Classes of Citizens Block B (Schedule-II) in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Municipalities, based on recommendations from the Haryana Backward Classes Commission.

The state cabinet also approved significant amendments to the 'Mukhya Mantri Shehri Awas Yojana' (MMSAY), aimed at addressing the housing needs of urban families with an annual income up to Rs 1.80 lakh, as verified by the Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP).

Additionally, in an effort to gain farmer support, the Haryana Government has decided to procure 10 crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP). These crops include Ragi, Soybean, Kalatil (Nigerseed), Safflower, Barley, Maize, Jowar, Jute, Khopra, and Moong (Summer).

Meanwhile, the Haryana BJP has launched a "Jan Samvad" campaign for the assembly polls.

Earlier, Union Minister and BJP leader Kishan Pal Gujjar stated on Monday that senior state leaders will be assigned to three constituencies each, with the program running until the end of the month.

The leaders and in charge of Haryana have been tasked with engaging in public dialogue and providing information about government schemes benefiting the public. (ANI)
Daljit Singh Chaudhary, Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF), visited the Integrated Check Post (ICP) Petrapole and the highly sensitive Border Out Post Ranaghat of the 68th Battalion deployed on the Indo-Bangladesh border in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal on Tuesday. The primary objective of the visit was to assess the tactical and operational preparedness and deployment strategies of the BSF at these crucial locations, according to a press release from the BSF. Chaudhary was accompanied by Ravi Gandhi, Additional Director General of Eastern Command, and Maninder PS Pawar, Inspector General of the South Bengal Frontier. https://x.com/BSF_SOUTHBENGAL/status/1820808702246416788 At ICP Petrapole, the Director General, along with the ADG Eastern Command, reviewed both the passenger and cargo terminals, and reviewed the complex operational challenges faced by the troops. The officiating commanding officer of the 145th Battalion briefed Chaudhary on the battalion''s operational procedures. He also visited the new ICP building. Following this, Chaudhary visited the Ranaghat Border Outpost of the 68th Battalion. There, he held a meeting with BSF officers to review the situation in Bangladesh and discuss strategies to address illegal infiltration and smuggling. Chaudhary stressed the need for heightened vigilance and effective measures to tackle these challenges. After the visit, Choudhary addressed the officers and jawans in Sainik Sammelan, in which the current situation in Bangladesh was discussed and clear instructions were given for preparedness to cope with any situation. He underlined the importance of border preparedness given the challenging conditions in Bangladesh and urged the officers and jawans to remain alert and prepared for any emerging situation. This visit underlines the commitment of BSF to maintain strong security measures and operational efficiency in one of the most sensitive areas of the India-Bangladesh border, the BSF release added. (ANI)
The NITI Aayog has come forward to support the Odisha government in preparing a vision document to realise its goal of a Bikasita Odisha, according to an official release. The CEO of NITI Aayog, BVR Subrahmanyam, met Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lokseva Bhawan on Tuesday to discuss this grand strategy for Odisha. During the discussion, Majhi said that Odisha has huge potential in different sectors and the state needs to realise it to achieve the goal of Bikasita Odisha by 2036 and 2047. He said that Odisha desires to contribute significantly to the growth of India and become a growth engine for India by 2047. "Odisha targets a 500 billion dollar economy by 2036 when the state will have been 100 years since its formation. And we also desire to reach a 1.5 trillion dollar economy by 2047," he added. NITI Aayog CEO Subrahmanyam said that Prime Minister Modi has a special focus on Odisha's development. "Every state needs to grow exceptionally to achieve the goal of Bikasita Bharat. In the case of Odisha, we will support the preparation of two vision documents, one for 2036 and another for 2047," Subrahmanyam said. During the discussion, it was decided that a steering committee would be formed under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary. The road map for the vision will be prepared in 3 months. For this, massive public outreach programmes will be taken up to receive opinions and suggestions to achieve the goal of Bikasita Odisha. An action plan will also be ready to take up initiatives as per the vision. Before the meeting with the CM, the NITI Aayog CEO and its officers had an extensive discussion with the Secretaries and senior officers of all departments. Among others, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Development Commissioner Anu Garg and Additional Chief Secretary to CM Shri Nikunja Bihari Dhal were present. (ANI)
HCA Healthcare, a global healthcare service provider, is set to expand its presence in Telangana's Hyderabad with an enhanced Global Capability Center (GCC), the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said in a release on Tuesday. According to the release, this initiative marks a major step in HCA Healthcare's commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to enhance healthcare delivery, following the brief inauguration of its incubation facility in the city in March 2024. Senior leaders from HCA Healthcare met with the Chief Minister of Telangana, A Revanth Reddy, and Telangana Minister for Industries and Commerce, D Sridhar Babu, on Tuesday to brief them on their massive plans in Hyderabad. The discussions emphasised Hyderabad's strategic importance as a centre for healthcare innovation and the pivotal role HCA Healthcare aims to play in this vision. Expressing appreciation for the business-friendly environment created by the government, the team requested the government's continued support. "We are thrilled that HCA Healthcare is further expanding its operations in Hyderabad," Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy said. "This decision reinforces Telangana's status as a leading destination for global enterprises. In addition to creating several new jobs, HCA Healthcare's investment will set new benchmarks in the healthcare sector and enhance Telangana's contribution to healthcare globally," he said. The enhanced Hyderabad GCC will focus on attracting talent in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), data science, and analytics. This center will serve as a crucial hub for HCA Healthcare's global operations, driving technological advancements and supporting the company's mission to provide high-quality healthcare. Emily Duncan, Senior Vice President of HCA Healthcare's Global Capabilities Network, said, "We are excited to expand our presence in Hyderabad, a city that aligns with our vision for innovation and growth. The talent and infrastructure here provide an ideal foundation for our Global Capability Centre, HCA Healthcare India, which will be instrumental in advancing our technological capabilities and enhancing patient care across our network." Sridhar Babu, Minister for Industries and Commerce, stated, "HCA Healthcare's decision to enhance their GCC in Hyderabad is a testament to our state's robust ecosystem and our efforts to create a conducive environment for global businesses. We are committed to supporting HCA Healthcare in their journey and I am confident that Hyderabad will continue to play a crucial role in improving lives around the world." Nashville-based HCA Healthcare is a provider of healthcare services, comprising 188 hospitals and approximately 2,400 ambulatory sites of care, including surgery centres, freestanding ERs, urgent care centres, and physician clinics, in 20 states and the United Kingdom, as per the CMO release. Founded in 1968, HCA Healthcare created a new model for hospital care in the United States, utilising combined resources to strengthen hospitals, deliver patient-focused care, and improve the practice of medicine, it added. (ANI)
The Finance Bill for the financial year 2024-2025 which was moved by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on August 6, will be taken into consideration and passing in Lok Sabha on Wednesday. "Further consideration of the following motion moved by Nirmala Sitharaman on the 6th August 2024 namely, that the Bill to give effect to the financial proposals of the Central Government for the financial year 2024- 2025, be taken into consideration. Nirmala Sitharaman to move that the Bill be passed," the agenda read. Earlier on Tuesday, Nirmala Sitharaman moved the Finance (No.2) Bill, 2024, for consideration in Parliament to give effect to the financial proposals of the central government for the financial year 2024-25. Union Ministers Jitendra Singh, Arjun Ram Meghwal, Pankaj Chaudhary, BL Verma, L Murugan, Satish Chandra Dubey, Ravneet Singh, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniaya, George Kurian will lay papers on the table in the Lok Sabha for their respective ministries. Union Minister to make a statement regarding the status of implementation of the recommendations/observations contained in the 27th Report of the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology on Ethical Standards in Media Coverage" pertaining to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Union Minsiter Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniaya to make a statement regarding the status of implementation of the recommendations contained in the 20th Report of the Standing Committee on Food, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution on "Quality Control Cells (QCCs)" pertaining to the Department of Food and Public Distribution, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. Meanwhile, in the Rajya Sabha, Nirmala Sitharaman to move The Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation (No.3) Bill, 2024, to authorise payment and appropriation of certain sums from and out of the Consolidated Fund of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir for the services of the financial year 2024-25, as passed by Lok Sabha, be taken into consideration. Also to move that the Bill be returned. "Nirmala Sitharaman to move that the Bill to authorise payment and appropriation of certain sums from and out of the Consolidated Fund of India for the services of the financial year 2024-25, as passed by Lok Sabha, be taken into consideration. Also to move that the Bill be returned," the List of Business read. Union Ministers Jayant Chaudhary, Ramdas Athawale, Nityanand Rai, Ajay Tamta, Sukanta Majumdar, and Harsh Malhotra will lay papers on the Table in the Rajya Sabha. "Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniaya will lay on the Table, under clause (2) of section 19A of the Comptroller and Auditor General's (Duties, Powers and Conditions of Service) Act, 1971, a copy (in English and Hindi) of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on "Storage Management and Movement of Food grains by Food Corporation of India" - Union Government - Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Report No. 20 of 2023 - (Performance Audit)," it added. Moreover, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh to make a statement regarding the Status of implementation of Recommendations contained in the 70th Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing on Employment Generation and Revenue Earning Potential of Fisheries Sector of the Department of Fisheries. The budget session of Parliament began on July 22 and is set to conclude on August 12. (ANI)
A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper inspects the scene of a March 22 fatal school bus crash on Texas 21 in Bastrop. One passenger on the bus, 5-year-old Ulises Rodriguez Montoya, was killed, as was Ryan Wallace, 33, a doctoral student and Bastrop resident. Jay Janner/Associated Press

The concrete truck driver who fatally struck a Hays County school bus in March in Bastrop County has been indicted by a grand jury.

Jerry Hernandez, 43, was indicted Tuesday on two counts of criminally negligent homicide and two counts of manslaughter, Bastrop County District Attorney Bryan Goertz said. Goertz declined to comment further while the case is pending.

A school bus carrying 44 preschoolers from Budas Tom Green Elementary was returning from a field trip to the Bastrop Zoo on March 22 when it was struck by a concrete pump truck. The bus rolled over and landed on its side while the truck struck a second vehicle, a Hyundai Tucson driving behind the bus.

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READ MORE: Truck driver who hit school bus told officers he fell asleep at the wheel

One passenger on the bus, 5-year-old Ulises Rodriguez Montoya, was killed, as was Ryan Wallace, 33, a doctoral student and Bastrop resident who was driving the Hyundai.

Hernandez, who officials say was driving the truck, was arrested a week after the crash on a charge of criminally negligent homicide.

Dashcam footage from the bus, released by the Hays Consolidated Independent School District, shows the truck veering over the highway centerline on Texas 21 before colliding with the school bus.

Jerry Hernandez, 43, was indicted Tuesday on two counts of criminally negligent homicide and two counts of manslaughter after driving a concrete truck driver which then fatally fatally struck a Hays County school bus in March. Hays County Jail

Hernandez told a Department of Public Safety trooper that he smoked marijuana the night before the crash, slept for about three hours and consumed cocaine around 1:30 a.m., about 12 hours before the crash, according to an arrest warrant. He also said hed taken a 15-minute nap before leaving his work location just before the collision.

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Hernandez also told a deputy he fell asleep before the crash, according to an incident report from the Caldwell County Sheriffs Office.

Hernandez later told DPS that an SUV traveling in front of the truck had braked suddenly, forcing him to swerve to the left into the oncoming traffic lane, but DPS said in its crash report that there was no evidence of that.

Driver fatigue may have contributed to the crash, DPS said in the crash report. Drug use may also have contributed to the crash.

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Manslaughter is a second-degree felony, which is punishable by two to 20 years in prison; criminally negligent homicide is classified as a state jail felony, punishable by up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
The party hailed Tagore's vision of unity and diversity, which continues to inspire patriotism through his iconic song Jana Gana Mana.

https://x.com/INCIndia/status/1820980678277632312

In a post on X, the Congress party said, "Tributes to Asia's 1st Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. Gurudev's legacy as the voice of India's spiritual heritage endures. His vision of unity & diversity shines through in Jana Gana Mana, inspiring patriotism during the freedom struggle & beyond."

Born in Calcutta (present-day Kolkata) on May 7, 1861, Rabindranath Tagore was the first Indian to receive the Nobel Prize. He passed away this very day in the year 1941.

Tagore, who reshaped Bengali literature, holds the distinction of being the first Asian to win the Nobel Prize in the year 1913 for his book of songs, 'Gitanjali' (Song Offerings).

Tagore has penned several renowned poems, songs, and literary works including the national anthem of India - Jana Gana Mana.

Referred to as the 'Bard of Bengal', Tagore started writing poetry at the young age of eight. As an exponent of the 'Bengal Renaissance', he advanced a vast canon which comprised of paintings, hundreds of texts, sketches and doodles and around two thousand songs.

His work reshaped Bengali literature and music and also changed Indian art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

One of Tagore's most famous novels, 'Ghare-Baire' (The Home and the World), was adapted into a movie of the same name by India's Oscar-winning director Satyajit Ray.

Notably, two of his compositions were chosen as national anthems of two countries, which are India's Jana Gana Mana and Bangladesh's 'Amar Shonar Bangla' (My Golden Bengal). (ANI)
Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday visited the headquarters of the Border Roads Organisation in the national capital. During his visit, he was briefed by BRO officials on infrastructure development along borders and capacity development initiatives of the organisation. The Army chief appreciated the efforts of BRO in nation-building. "#GeneralUpendraDwivedi #COAS visited HQ Director General Border Roads #DGBR. During his visit, he was briefed by Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, #DGBR on infrastructure development along our borders and capacity development initiatives of Border Roads Organisation #BRO. #COAS appreciated the efforts of #BRO in #NationBuilding," the Indian Army wrote on social media platform X via official account ADG PI-Indian Army. Notably, amid an ongoing standoff with China, an Indian Army Strike Corps is holding a big exercise involving all major fighting elements in the Ladakh sector including armoured formations and other assets there. 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. (ANI)
In his letter, Kejriwal requested that Minister Atishi be allowed to hoist the flag on his behalf for the Independence Day celebrations.

Earlier on Monday, the Delhi High Court dismissed Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Excise Policy matter. The court stated that the arrest was not without justifiable reason.

Regarding the bail application, the court has given Kejriwal the option to approach the trial court for further relief.

India will celebrate 77 years of Independence with 'Amrit Mahotsav' on August 15, 2024.

Meanwhile, ahead of Independence Day, BSES issued an advisory on kite flying, urging people to avoid using metal or metal-coated manjha to ensure safe celebrations.

According to a BSES official, "Each year, numerous power disruptions and equipment damage incidents are reported due to metal-coated manjha. With the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, there is an expected increase in kite-flying activities, potentially leading to more incidents."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the National Flag at Red Fort on the 78th Independence Day on August 15. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President MK Stalin paid tribute to former Tamil Nadu CM and DMK leader M Karunanidhi on his sixth death anniversary on Wednesday. DMK Youth Wing Secretary and Minister for Youth of Tamil Nadu Udhayanidhi Stalin also paid tribute and said that Karunanidhi sowed love and kept Tamil Nadu politics alive. Taking to the social media platform X, he said, "On the occasion of the 6th anniversary of the great thinker and progressive planner, the self-respect sun who shattered two thousand years of dominance with his innovative ideas, Kalaignar Muthamizh Arignar, we paid floral tributes to his portrait placed near the statue of Kalaignar at the Omandurar complex near Anna Salai in Chennai." In another post on X, he said, "Today is the 6th anniversary of Muthamil scholar artist who is full of our memories in word and deed and who leads the way every day. There are many people who want to survive in politics by spreading hatred among people; Our artist is the one who sowed only love and kept Tamil Nadu politics alive. The artist's vision extended the comparative boundaries of the development of modern Tamil Nadu beyond the Union of India to the countries of the world". He further said, "The artist's political commitment has made Tamil Nadu's political slogan of social justice, state autonomy - language rights resonate in other states as well. Anti-dominant politics; It was our artist who laid the foundation of the Dravidian model through the Dravidian principles of development-oriented management. On this day, we will work on the path of Muthamil scholar artist and establish Dravidian model government again under the leadership of Kazhagam leader." "May the fame of the artist spread," the youth minister added. Earlier, the Congress paid tribute to M Karunanidhi A social media post from the Congress party handle on X stated, "Remembering former Tamil Nadu CM M. Karunanidhi, a leader who embodied art & statesmanship. His legacy of social justice & equality continues to inspire." "Today, we pay homage to his enduring impact on public welfare & Tamil Nadu's progress," the post said. Earlier, more than 500 cadres, including Kanchipuram Assembly members Sundar, Ezhilarasan, and Kanchipuram Mayor Mahalakshmi, held a peace rally and paid floral tribute to the statue of M. Karunanidhi in Kanchipuram district. It was advised by the party to conduct a peace rally in every district and to pay floral tributes to former DMK Chief Karunanidhi. More than 500 DMK senior leaders and cadets from Kanchipuram district, city and union areas have participated in the peace rally and paid floral tribute to the former Chief Minister. (ANI)
Congress MP Hibi Eden on Wednesday gave an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha to discuss the issue of 'Mullaperiyar Dam'. "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," Hibi Eden stated. "The Mullaperiyar Dam, a century old structure, poses an imminent threat that we can no longer afford to ignore. The need to reconstruct the Mullaperiyar Dam is not just an engineering challenge but a moral and humanitarian imperative. The reconstruction of the Mullaperiyar Dam is not just a regional issue; it is a national priority. We must act decisively and swiftly to prevent a potential disaster that could claim countless lives and cause irreversible damage," he added. ' The Congress leader said that the government must therefore take proactive steps in this matter and decommission the Mullaperiyar Dam at the earliest. Mullaperiyar Dam is a masonry gravity dam on the Periyar River in the Idukki district of Kerala. Earlier, Congress MP Manickam Tagore gave an adjournment motion notice in Lok Sabha to discuss the issue of 'Caste-based Census'. "I hereby give notice of my intention to ask for leave to a motion for the adjournment of the business of the house for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent importance, namely: Today I address the urgent need for a caste-based census," Tagore stated. "The drastic budget cut for the Census to Rs 1,309,46 crore from Rs 3,768 crore raises concerns about the government's commitment to timely and effective data collection, which is crucial for social justice and targeted welfare for marginalized communities. The lack of necessary funds impacts the efficacy of this important process. We urge the government to prioritize and complete the caste-based census promptly to ensure social justice and equitable progress," he added. The budget session of Parliament began on July 22 and is set to conclude on August 12. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on the occasion of National Handloom Day on Wednesday and expressed pride over the rich heritage and tradition of handlooms across the country. Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Greetings on National Handloom Day! We take immense pride in the rich heritage and vibrant tradition of handlooms across our nation. We also cherish the efforts of our artisans and reiterate our commitment to be 'Vocal for Local.'" Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also extended greetings and said, "Best wishes on National Handloom Day to all the weavers and business brothers and sisters of the handloom industry who preserve the spirit of self-respect through Swadeshi and keep the Indian culture and traditions alive through their work and craftsmanship! Come, let us all participate in achieving the resolution of self-reliant and prosperous India by adopting handloom and indigenous products." The 10th National Handloom Day will be celebrated today at Vigyan Bhawan in the national capital with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar as chief guest. Union Textiles Minister, Giriraj Singh and Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles, Pabitra Margherita will attend the function. MPs, eminent personalities, designers, Industry representatives and exporters, Senior Government Officers as well as more than 1000 weavers from across the country will be attending the function. During the function, the Sant Kabir Awards and National Handloom Awards will be conferred to handloom weavers for their outstanding contribution to the handloom sector. Award Catalogue and Coffee Table Book- "Parampara- Sustainability in Handloom Traditions of India" will be released by the Vice President of India. Guided by the vision of the Prime Minister, the Government started celebrating National Handloom Day with the first such celebration being held on August 7, 2015. The date was specifically chosen to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement which was launched on August 7, 1905 and encouraged indigenous industries, particularly handloom weavers. According to the release, National Handloom Day seeks to honour the handloom weavers and provide motivation and a sense of pride to the handloom industry, by appreciating their contribution to the cultural, traditional and economic landscape of the country. The celebrations aim to generate awareness about the importance of the handloom sector and its contribution to the socio-economic development of the country. (ANI)
Amid ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi called for a fast restoration of peace and said that the Indian government must ensure the safety of Indians stranded in Bangladesh. She said, "I hope the peace will be restored fast; the kind of visuals coming in from Bangladesh is a matter of tension, like the statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which has been destroyed.". "If the unstable situation continues, then the country and region will suffer," she added. She further said, "Yesterday, S. Jaishankar said that 19 thousand Indians are in Bangladesh and most of them are Indians. The government should ensure that they return to India soon and a safe environment should be created for them.". Congress MP KC Venugopal said, "Yesterday, we already raised a concern about the Indian students and the minorities living in Bangladesh. The government is saying they are looking into it. We are also closely monitoring the actions from the GoI..." Earlier on Tuesday, Air India operated a special charter flight from Dhaka to Delhi. The flight arrived in Delhi this morning (August 7) with 199 passengers and 6 infants, as per sources. "Air India operated a special charter flight at short notice despite infrastructure challenges at Dhaka Airport late last night. It carried 199 passengers and 6 infants from Dhaka to Delhi and landed in Delhi early this morning," Air India sources. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation, with Sheikh Hasina tendering her resignation from her post in the wake of mounting protests on August 5. The protests, led mainly by students demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, evolved into anti-government demonstrations. A day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and left the country, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, the Dhaka Tribune reported. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, the Dhaka Tribune reported. The Bangladesh President's Press Secretary, Joynal Abedin, made the announcement. The decision regarding the appointment of Bangladesh's interim government head was made during a meeting between President Shahabuddin and the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. 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 was 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. In a statement on Monday, the president's press team said that a meeting led by Shahabuddin had "decided unanimously" to free 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. (ANI)
Ahead of the Jharkhand Congress leaders meeting in Delhi on Wednesday, state party chief Rajesh Thakur said that the agenda of the meeting will be the upcoming Jharkhand Assembly elections, adding that 20 senior leaders of the party will attend the meeting. "The meeting has a clear agenda, the upcoming 2024 elections, how the party will get into it, and how the party will put forward their opinions in the alliance. How the alliance will strongly contest the elections. With what strategy will we get it into the elections? 20 senior leaders have been called to Delhi to attend the meeting," Rajesh Thakur told ANI. Jharkhand Minister and Congress leader Rameshwar Oraon said that in alliance, the party will fight the Jharkhand Assembly polls. "The discussion will be regarding the upcoming (Jharkhand) election. The situation here is very good, our alliance partners are one. All three parties will fight together, there will be an alliance. This time, the results will be better than last time," Oraon said. The assembly elections in Jharkhand will likely be held in 2024. Along with Jharkhand, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jammu and Kashmir will also undergo assembly polls. Earlier on July 4, after securing bail from the Jharkhand High Court, Hemant Soren was sworn in again as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. Soren had spent nearly 5 months in jail after being arrested in an alleged land scam case. Before his arrest, he had stepped down as CM and Champai Soren was sworn in as CM. The term of the existing Jharkhand Legislative Assembly will end in January 2025 and the Election Commission (EC) has kicked off preparations for holding assembly elections. In 2019, JMM fought the assembly elections in alliance with the Congress and Lalu Prasad's Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD) and got a comfortable majority with forty-seven seats in the 81-member house. (ANI)
Two key accused in the 2019 Malda fake currency case have been sentenced to rigorous imprisonment (RI) by the Kolkata special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). According to the NIA, Asim Sarkar of Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh) has been sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment, and his co-accused, Aladu alias Matur of Malda (West Bengal), will have to spend five years in jail under rigorous imprisonment as per the sentence pronounced by the special court, which has found both men guilty in the case RC-23/2019/NIA/DLI. The two accused, who have been held culpable under various sections of the IPC and UA(P) Act, have also been fined Rs 10,000 and Rs 5,000, respectively. They will have to spend another three months under rigorous imprisonment in case of failure to deposit the fine, the NIA stated. Trial against an absconding Bangladeshi national, identified as Abdul Rahim, is continuing in the case relating to seizure of High Quality Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in September 2019. DRI sleuths had seized 99 fake notes in the denomination of Rs 2,000 and two notes in the denomination of Rs 500, having a total face value of Rs 1,99,000 , from Asim Sarkar, who was immediately taken into custody. Two other accused, Aladu alias Matahu and Faijul Sk, were arrested subsequently by the NIA, which took over the case in October 2019. Faijul Sk is already serving a 5-year jail sentence in the case. NIA investigations had found that all four accused were involved in the criminal conspiracy to procure and circulate FICNs with the intention to use it as genuine for unlawful gain. (ANI)
Congress senior leader Salman Khurshid on Wednesday refused to be drawn further into controversy after it was reported that he had said that violent protests like Bangladesh are possible in India. When questioned v by reporters over the statement the senior Congress leader said, "I say whatever I say in public, never in private." However, the BJP has severely criticised Salman Khurshid over his reported comments. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla said, "Congress party says that it stands with the government of India as far as the issue of Bangladesh is concerned because this is not a political issue and no politics should be done but their leader Salman Khurshid tried to provoke and incite the people of India." He further said, "This is another instance of Congress party putting rajneeti above Rashtraneeti. Is Salman Khurshid trying to undermine Indian democracy? Is Salman Khurshid trying to undermine Indian armed forces? This is the same Congress party that has despised 'deshvirodh' when trying to oppose Modi". "What they mean is that the attacks that take place on Hindus of Bangladesh should take place in India. Today Rahul Gandhi must tell us: does he stand by the statement of Salman Khurshid? Is this not an undermining of the Indian democratic institutions? Is this not taking a typical stereotypical opinion of India's population? In the recent past, Congress and its allies were hailing Bangladesh, saying that Bangladesh is ahead of us in different segments and now the same people are saying that nothing is right in Bangladesh. The double face of Congress is out yet," he added. On Congress leader Salman Khurshid's statement, BJP MP Sambit Patra said, "He said it during a book release. From Congress' side, he warned that protests and arson could break out in India; what happened in Bangladesh could happen in India. So many other leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, were present there and they in a way supported that statement. Rahul Gandhi, whenever he went abroad, used to meet many people secretly and speak against India; now we are getting to know what his intention was." BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma said, "The wishes of these people are not going to be fulfilled. These people are also planning for riots to happen in India. They have also tried to incite violence in different protests. but the administration here is strong and knows how to answer." Earlier, reacting to the statement of Salman Khurshid, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said, "I want the Ministry of External Affairs to remain in constant touch with the leaders of the opposition parties. Keep providing us the information about the steps the Government of India is taking. We are also getting information from various sources. If there is a dialogue between the government and the opposition parties, then we will also be able to convey our information to them." (ANI)
County Commissioner Precinct 1 incumbent Rebeca Clay-Flores is interviewed at her campaign watch party held at Arizona Cafe on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News

Bexar County commissioners on Tuesday ousted the chairman of a business advisory committee for using a crude epithet to describe Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores.

Chris Forbrich allegedly called Clay-Flores, the five-person courts only woman member, a crusading c in a private conversation with a fellow member of the Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (SMWBE) Program Advisory Committee.

Precinct 1 Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores listens to a presenter during a meeting of the Bexar County Commissioners Court on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News

Another committee member, Edward Pape, overheard the July 10 conversation between committee member Marinella Murillo and Forbrich, and reported the remarks in a letter to County Judge Peter Sakai.

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According to his letter, Pape was at the Frost Bank Center with Forbrich, Murillo, board member Roy Schauffele and Renee Watson, director of the countys Small Business and Entrepreneurship Department. Forbrich, owner of IT support firm Forbrich & Associates, approached the group as they discussed agenda items from the previous days Commissioners Court meeting.

At the meeting, Clay-Flores voted against reappointing Forbrich and another member to the SMWBE committee after asking county staff if the committee should be reduced from 15 members to five  an ongoing debate among county officials.

Did you hear what your crusading c of a commissioner tried to do to me last night, Forbrich asked Murillo, according to Pape.

The committee he chaired provides recommendations to commissioners about the SMWBE program, which provides resources and training to small business owners.

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Watson said she confronted Forbrich about the incident on July 11 after Pape reported the incident.

He acknowledged the conversation and informed me that he was exercising his Free Speech and had apologized to Ms. Murillo, Watson said in a letter to Sakai. I informed Mr. Forbrich that his remarks were slanderous and a continuance of his behavior that is unacceptable.

Each county commissioner and the judge can appoint three people to the SMWBE Program Advisory Committee. Commissioner Tommy Calvert asked to roll back the courts July decision to reappoint Forbrich to the board. His colleagues voted 5-0 to strip Forbrich of the chairmanship.

I have zero tolerance for that type of language, Sakai told reporters after the meeting. I give Mr. Forbrich his First Amendment right to say what he wants to say. He has no First Amendment rights to be on a commission so long as Im the county judge.

In his comments to the court, Forbrich said he spent $10,000 securing a lawyer for Tuesdays meeting and claimed he did not receive timely notice about the pending action, which Sakai denied.

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Forbrich, who chaired the committee for nine years, would not disclose in an interview with the San Antonio Express-News what he said in his conversation with Murillo.

Forbrich said he might sue the county for taking action against him over private comments that he said were not intended for public consumption.

Is the real injustice that someone exercised their free speech or that someone who wasnt part of the conversation eavesdropped and politicized a private conversation? Forbrich said. Who is the bad actor here? I think thats what we have to continue to litigate out.

County spokeswoman Monica Ramos said the committee will decide who will replace Forbrich as chair.

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Clay-Flores thanked her colleagues on the court for taking swift action against Forbrich, adding that she has experienced sexism and racism before during Commissioners Court meetings and felt that her male counterparts had not defended her.

This vote, and the leadership of Judge Sakai, speaks that this county will not tolerate sexism or verbal abuse, Clay-Flores said. An appointee representing the county as well as employees shall conduct themselves professionally.

When Clay-Flores declared victory in the Democratic primary runoff in May she accused opponent Amanda Gonzalez and the Bexar County sheriffs deputies' union of running an intimidation, harassment and bullying campaign.

Clay-Flores, 49, is Black and Mexican American. She is the first woman of color to be elected to Commissioners Court.

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Over the first two days of early voting, Clay-Flores campaign phone received six calls  made from anonymous numbers  in which the people called the incumbent the N-word, Frankie Gonzales-Wolfe, Clay-Flores' chief of staff, said in May.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the Handicraft Exhibition organised by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Gandhinagar on Wednesday. "Handloom is a symbol of India's unique rural art and culture. Handlooms are an integral part of the country's rural economy. Happy National Handloom Day to all artisans who weave beautiful fabrics through handloom and craft. Let us all adopt the mantra of Vocal For Local given by Prime Minister Narendrabhai Modi and insist on buying local handlooms and handicrafts," the Gujarat CM posted on X. The Gujarat CM also inaugurated three renovated departments on the NIFT campus: the Department of Fashion Design, the Department of Fashion and Lifestyle Accessories, and the Department of Master of Design. The 10th National Handloom Day was celebrated at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Gandhinagar in the presence of Chief Minister Patel. Industry Minister Balvantsinh Rajput, MLA Ritaben Patel, Gandhinagar Mayor Meera Patel, NIFT Director Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, Joint Director Prof. Dr. Pranav Vora, and professors and students from various faculties were present on this occasion. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings on the occasion of National Handloom Day and expressed pride over the rich heritage and tradition of handlooms across the country. Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Greetings on National Handloom Day! We take immense pride in the rich heritage and vibrant tradition of handlooms across our nation. We also cherish the efforts of our artisans and reiterate our commitment to be 'Vocal for Local.'" Guided by the vision of the Prime Minister, the government started celebrating National Handloom Day, with the first such celebration being held on August 7, 2015. The date was specifically chosen to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement, which was launched on August 7, 1905, and encouraged indigenous industries, particularly handloom weavers. National Handloom Day seeks to honour handloom weavers and provide motivation and a sense of pride to the handloom industry, by appreciating their contribution to the cultural, traditional, and economic landscape of the country. The celebrations aim to generate awareness about the importance of the handloom sector and its contribution to the socio-economic development of the country. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended greetings on the occasion of National Handloom Day on Wednesday and said that the handloom sector bears the imprints of Bharat's pride, progress, and heritage. Taking to the social media platform X, the Union Home Minister wrote, "On #NationalHandloomDay, I extend my greetings to our dedicated weavers' community and the people associated with the sector. The handloom sector bears the imprints of Bharat's pride, progress, and heritage. The Modi government is firmly committed to the prosperity of the sector and has launched a number of schemes to achieve this purpose. May this occasion strengthen our resolve to promote and opt for handloom products to further strengthen the sector." Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings and expressed pride over the rich heritage and tradition of handlooms across the country. "Greetings on National Handloom Day! We take immense pride in the rich heritage and vibrant tradition of handlooms across our nation. We also cherish the efforts of our artisans and reiterate our commitment to be 'Vocal for Local.'" The 10th National Handloom Day will be celebrated today at Vigyan Bhawan in the national capital with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar as chief guest. Union Textiles Minister, Giriraj Singh and Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles, Pabitra Margherita will attend the function. MPs, eminent personalities, designers, Industry representatives and exporters, Senior Government Officers as well as more than 1000 weavers from across the country will be attending the function. During the function, the Sant Kabir Awards and National Handloom Awards will be conferred to handloom weavers for their outstanding contribution to the handloom sector. Award Catalogue and Coffee Table Book- "Parampara- Sustainability in Handloom Traditions of India" will be released by the Vice President of India. Guided by the vision of the Prime Minister, the Government started celebrating National Handloom Day with the first such celebration being held on August 7, 2015. The date was specifically chosen to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement which was launched on August 7, 1905 and encouraged indigenous industries, particularly handloom weavers. According to the release, National Handloom Day seeks to honour the handloom weavers and provide motivation and a sense of pride to the handloom industry, by appreciating their contribution to the cultural, traditional and economic landscape of the country. The celebrations aim to generate awareness about the importance of the handloom sector and its contribution to the socio-economic development of the country. (ANI)
The Ministry of Home Affairs has appointed RR Swain as Director General of Police, Jammu and Kashmir, till September 30, 2024. Swain has been holding the additional charge of the post of Director General of Police, Jammu & Kashmir "With the approval of the Competent Authority, Shri R. R. Swain, IPS (AGMUT: 1991), currently holding the additional charge of the post of Director General of Police, Jammu & Kashmir, is hereby appointed to the post of Director General of Police, Jammu & Kashmir with effect from the date of assumption of charge and till 30.09.2024 or until further orders, whichever is earlier," Ministry of Home Affairs said in an order dated August 6. His appointment comes at a time when, in last few months, there has been a spike in terror attacks in the Jammu region, including an attack on an army convoy in Kathua and encounters in Doda and Udhampur. In July, one Pakistani intruder was killed as Indian Army troops foiled an attack by the Pakistan Border Action Team (BAT) along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machchal sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district. One Indian Army soldier had lost his life, while four others, including a major-rank officer, sustained injuries in the attack. In July, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) informed the Lok Sabha that a total of 28 people, including civilians and security personnel, were killed in 11 terror-related incidents and 24 encounters or counter-terror operations up to July 21 this year. Last month, one Pakistani intruder was killed as Indian Army troops foiled an attack by the Pakistan Border Action Team (BAT) along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machchal sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district. One Indian Army soldier lost his life, while four others, including a major-rank officer, sustained injuries in the attack. (ANI)
Amid the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Dilip Ghosh voiced his concern for the people of the country, stating that the future for Bengalis living in Bangladesh looks bleak. "In Bangladesh, those who wanted to keep the country under Pakistan's control--those who worked as Razakars and acted as agents for Pakistan--are now aligning themselves with China and Pakistan. This is harmful for Bangladesh and also for our country. For the 20-22 crore Bengalis living in Bangladesh, their future is bleak," Ghosh told ANI. Dilip Ghosh also blamed the current situation in Bangladesh on some extremist and narrow-minded individuals who oppose progress, adding that their actions are very concerning for the future of Bangladesh. "Sheikh Hasina has made significant progress in development, cooperating with various countries, and improving the lives of ordinary people. However, some extremist and narrow-minded individuals do not want this progress. Their actions are very concerning for the future of Bangladesh," Ghosh said. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation, with Sheikh Hasina tendering her resignation from her post in the wake of mounting protests on August 5. The protests, led mainly by students demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, evolved into anti-government demonstrations. A day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and left the country, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, Dhaka Tribune reported. Bangladesh President's Press Secretary, Joynal Abedin, made the announcement. The decision regarding the appointment of Bangladesh's interim government head was made during a meeting between President Shahabuddin and the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. (ANI)
As rescue and relief operations in landslide-hit areas of Kerala's Wayanad entered its ninth consecutive day, Congress Lok Sabha MP KC Venugopal on Wednesday said that this is not the time for a blame game. "Our stand is very clear now. This is not the time for a blame game. Whether it is Centre or State, blaming each other is totally avoidable. The entire country is weeping, bodies are still inside the mud. A political party has a responsibility to go along with everybody on rescue operations and conduct the rehabilitation process. This is an unwanted controversy created by the Centre," Venugopal told ANI. His remarks came after Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav blamed the Kerala government's policies for the landslides in Wayanad. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday told ANI that "The state government should also submit its report of the Committee headed by former Director General of Forests Sanjay Kumar. Illegal habitation and mining should not be conducted in the ecosensitive zone. We suffered the loss due to it." Meanwhile, rescue operations by the Indian Air Force, Army and state authorities are underway in the landslide-affected Wayanad region of Kerala on Wednesday. "Collaborative rescue operations conducted by the IAF, IA and state authorities are ongoing in the landslide-affected Wayanad region. A specialised team of soldiers, along with the Army, was airlifted by an IAF from Kalpetta to Chaliyar River," PRO Defence Kochi posted on X. Wayanad's Chooralmala and Mundakkai were hit by massive landslides on July 30, claiming over 300 lives and creating widespread property damage. Earlier today, a special team consisting of six trained Army personnel, four SOGs (Special Operation Groups) of Kerala Police, two Forest Officers and a dog squad left for the Sunrise Valley of Soojippara waterfalls in Wayanad to carry out a search operation. "In continuation of yesterday's. operation, today we are also sending a team. We are including a cadaver dog and its handler. It is a 13-member team. We want to go some more downstream. Yesterday, 4 kilometres were covered. Today, we are trying to cover some more areas. We will maximum try to cover downstream," Taposh Basumatary, Superintendent of Police, SOG, told ANI. On Tuesday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that the government will ensure world-class rehabilitation in the landslide-hit areas of the Wayanad district, which will serve as an example. Addressing a press conference, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, "We will ensure world-class rehabilitation. Our goal is to implement a resettlement model that can serve as an example for the nation and the world." The Kerala CM further highlighted that government employees and teachers have come forward to contribute at least 5 per cent of their salary to the CM disaster relief fund. Highlighting the total funds in the CMDRF, Vijayan stated, "From July 30 until Monday, we have received Rs 53.98 crores in the disaster relief fund." (ANI)
Former Samajwadi Party MLA Irfan Solanki appeared in a court here on Wednesday in connection with the 2022 extortion case. Irfan Solanki and his younger brother Rizwan Solanki appeared in Kanpur District and Sessions Court amid heavy security arrangements. Irfan Solanki's lawyer, Saeed Naqvi, stated, "They have requested the court to consider that after the arson case was registered in 2022, multiple different cases were filed against their client one after another. The extortion case is not being substantiated in any way, as it does not show the crime date or year. Therefore, at the very least, the charges in this case should be framed minimally". Currently, former Samajwadi Party MLA Irfan Solanki is in UP's Maharajganj jail, serving a 7-year sentence for the arson case. Earlier in June, the MP MLA court in Kanpur sentenced Samajwadi Party MLA Irfan Solanki and his younger brother Rizwan Solanki, along with three others, to 7 years in prison and fined them Rs 20,000 each in an arson case. On November 8, 2022, Nazir Fatima lodged an FIR in Jajmau police station against Irfan Solanki, Rizwan Solanki, and three other people under sections 436, 506, 504, 147, 427, 386 and 120B of the IPC, and alleged that Irfan Solanki and his brother Rizwan Solanki and others, as part of a conspiracy, set her house on fire so that they could take over her land."All the sentences will run simultaneously. The maximum sentence is 7 years. A total fine of Rs 30,500 has been imposed on each convict. "I think the court's order is justified," prosecution lawyer Prachi Shrivastav said. MLA Irfan Solanki's advocate, Karim Siddiqui, disagreed with the judgement by the MP MLA court."The court observed that the prosecution has not been able to present any evidence... We do not agree with this judgement of the court," he said. Earlier on June 3, the court found Samajwadi Party MLA from Kanpur, Irfan Solanki, guilty under sections 436, 427, 147, 504, 506, and 323.Notably, on June 3, the court has acquitted Irfan Solanki in sections 386, 149, and 120 B. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday granted liberty to former probationary IAS Puja Khedkar to approach the appropriate forum to challenge the cancellation of her candidature. Meanwhile, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has informed the Court that it will provide Puja Khedkar with the order cancelling her candidature within two days. The bench of Justice Jyoti Singh disposed of Puja Khedkar's plea and clarified that it has not examined or expressed any opinion on the merits of the case. The court also added that the filing of the petition will not affect the adjudication of the issue by the appropriate forum. Advocate Indira Jaising representing Khedkar referencing a press release issued by UPSC about the cancellation of her candidature said that Khedkar is specifically requesting two actions, the formal delivery of the cancellation order and the quashing of the press release related to the cancellation. Naresh Kaushik, representing the UPSC, explained that the press release was issued because Khedkar's whereabouts were unknown. The press release served as a formal intimation regarding the cancellation of her candidature. Khedkar on Monday moved the Delhi High Court challenging the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) decision to cancel her candidature. On July 31, the UPSC through a press statement stated that it had taken a decision to cancel the provisional candidature of Puja Khedkar, who was facing accusations of cheating and forgery. The UPSC found Puja Khedkar violating rules and debarred her from all future exams and selections. The UPSC stated that it has carefully considered the request of Puja Manorama Dilip Khedkar and in order to meet the ends of justice, she was granted time till 3:30 pm on 30th July 2024 so as to enable her to submit the response to the Show Cause Notice. It was also categorically made clear to Puja Manorama Dilip Khedkar that it was the last and final opportunity for her and no further extension in time would be allowed. It was also conveyed to her in unequivocal terms that if no response was received by the aforesaid date/time, the UPSC would take further action without entertaining any further reference from her. Despite an extension in time allowed to her, she failed to submit her explanation within the prescribed time, stated UPSC. The UPSC has examined the available records carefully and found her guilty of acting in contravention of the provisions of the CSE-2022 Rules. Her provisional candidature for the CSE-2022 has been cancelled and she has also been debarred permanently from all future Examinations/Selections of the UPSC, a press statement stated. (ANI)
The injured person was identified as Sandeep (30), a resident of Binda Pur Village.

According to the Delhi police, "At around 10:20 PM, a PCR call was received regarding a stabbing incident at T-point in Jeevan Park, Som Bazar area at the Dabri Police Station.

Shortly after receiving the information, police rushed to the scene, where it was reported that the injured had been shifted to the Deen Dayal University (DDU) Hospital.

"During the investigation, injured Sandeep stated that he and his brother were passing through a street in Binda Pur Extension when they collided with 3-4 boys coming from opposite directions. A quarrel ensued and he sustained a small stab injury to his left leg," said the police.

Following the stab injury, the assailants fled from the scene, according to the police.

Police said that an FIR under sections 118(1), 115(2), and 3(5) BNS has been registered and efforts are on to nab the culprits.

An investigation into the matter is underway. (ANI)
With the change in weather conditions in Madhya Pradesh's Indore, the number of patients suffering from seasonal diseases and COVID-19 has started increasing in the city. A total of 18 patients have been tested positive for dengue, three for COVID-19 and one each for swine flu and chikungunya in the city so far, a health official said on Wednesday. Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO, Indore) Dr Bhure Singh Setia told ANI, "In the last two days, three female patients have been tested positive for COVID-19. These women got themselves tested at private hospitals in the city. Of these, two women were admitted to the hospital for their other disease, later found to be COVID-19 positive and are undergoing treatment. While one woman is in isolation at home." Apart from this, 18 people have tested positive for Dengue, while one patient each suffering from Swine flu and Chikungunya was found in the city in the last two days, Setia said. "It is rainy season; there is waterlogging at various places in which larvae thrive so we should release those accumulated water. We have also called drones, through which larvae are being detected in the water accumulated on the roof of big buildings. The team of the malaria department is searching and spraying medicine to eliminate the larvae," he added. Earlier, a health official in Jabalpur district said that a total of 11 cases of swine flu were detected in Jabalpur between July 11 and August 6. Of these, nine patients were recovered and discharged from the hospital. "In the initial phase of rain, the outbreak of colds, coughsand fever increases every year. The swine flu is caused by H1N1 virus and just like COVID-19, it is also a throat infection. A total of 11 patients have been tested positive for swine flu in Jabalpur so far since July 11 who were undergoing treatment at private and medical college hospitals in the district. Nine patients have been discharged," said Sanjay Mishra, Joint Director, Health Services Jabalpur. There is no need to panic about the disease but it is necessary to be cautious as it transfers from one person to another through air. Therefore, those who are tested positive should stay isolated in the hospital and avoid staying at home, he said. He further urged people that those who were suffering from cold, cough and fevers should avoid visiting crowded places. Do consult the doctor and take medicines on time. (ANI)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday conducted searches at two locations in the Khunti district of Jharkhand in a PLFI extortion and terror racket. A statement released by the agency on Wednesday said that the "premises of suspects connected with the proscribed splinter Naxal outfit, the People's Liberation Front of India (PLFI), were searched by NIA teams, and several incriminating digital devices and documents were seized." The case relates to the extortion of money from various coal traders, transporters, railway contractors, businessmen, etc. by PLFI cadres in Jharkhand, Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. "These cadres had also conspired to commit various terrorist activities, including murders, arson, and violent attacks, with an aim to creating terror in society, especially among businessmen and contractors," the agency said. The anti-terror agency on Monday chargesheeted a key associate of jailed gangster Aman Sahu in a case of firing, extortion and arson at a coal mine in Latehar in Jharkhand, the agency said in a statement. The statement added that the accused, Shankar Yadav, a resident of district Bhagalpur, Bihar, was charged under various sections of IPC, UA(P) Act, and Arms Act. The case was registered by the local police in Balumath, district Latehar in December 2020 and taken over by NIA in March 2021. "Shankar Yadav, the 25th accused to be chargesheeted by NIA in the case, was a key aide of Aman Sahu, currently in jail in various cases of Jharkhand, as per investigations. He was involved in creating a false front using shell firms for channelling the extortion money procured by Aman Sahu. During the investigation, a search was conducted at the premises of Shankar Yadav in February 2024, in which Rs 1.30 crore in cash was seized," as per the statement. (ANI)
Richard Poulson, chief negotiator for the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, discusses a proposal during contract negotiations with the City of San Antonio at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday morning, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association meets with the city of San Antonio at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Deputy City Manager Maria Villagomez addresses the group during contract negotiations with the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday morning, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association bargaining committee members Clayton Saidler, left, and Mike McCarty listen to contract negations with the City of San Antonio at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday morning, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Richard Poulson, chief negotiator for the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, discusses a proposal during contract negotiations with the City of San Antonio at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday morning, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Assistant Chief Joe Jones, left, president of the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, sits at the bargaining table with Richard Poulson, chief negotiator for the firefighters association, during contract negations with the City of San Antonio at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday morning, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Richard Poulson, left, chief negotiator for the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, discusses a proposal as Bargaining Committee Chair Billy Hacker listens to contract negotiations with the City of San Antonio at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday morning, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Deputy City Manager Maria Villagomez packs up her bag during a recess from contract negotiations with the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association at the Municipal Plaza building on Tuesday morning, Aug. 6, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News

The firefighters' union on Tuesday scaled back its pay demands in contract talks with the city of San Antonio, putting up a counteroffer that its leader called a pretty significant economic move  which amounted to a slight reduction of its previous proposal.

Its still millions of dollars apart from the citys offer.

After making the concession, San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association President Joe Jones had anticipated that city negotiators would budge, too.

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They didnt.

Deputy City Manager Maria Villagomez, whos leading the citys team of negotiators, said she wouldnt give a comprehensive response to their proposed wage changes until both sides reconvene Aug. 23.

Her move left Jones a little lost, he said, because the unions latest proposal still puts public safety spending below 66% of the general fund budget. In 2014, the City Council adopted a policy keeping spending on police protection and firefighting at no more than two-thirds of the budget.

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But as the city faces a $10 million budget deficit over the next two fiscal years, that financial policy is not the only driver behind the citys salary offer, Villagomez said. Its two factors: its how much cash we have available to work with and also the financial policies.

The general fund pays for city employee salaries, street repairs and many other basic city services.

On Tuesday, the union proposed a $2,400 salary increase followed by a 25% pay raise spread out over the length of a three-year labor contract  a drop of two percentage points from their June 24 offer. That proposal would raise an entry-level firefighters salary from $57,576 currently to $76,213 by Oct. 1, 2027.

The citys latest proposal, unveiled June 25, includes the same $2,400 bump followed by a 15.5% raise over three years, bringing entry-level pay to $69,741.

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The contract talks have been ongoing since late February, and both sides are staring down deadlines for hashing out a new contract. The firefighters unions current contract expires Dec. 31.

We would like nothing more to get this contract wrapped up before we hit Labor Day and the month of September, Rick Poulson, a Philadelphia-based attorney serving as the unions lead negotiator, said as Tuesdays negotiation session kicked off after a six-week break.

City budget writers would like the new contract costs to be included in the new fiscal year budget that the City Council will be asked to adopt in mid-September. The next fiscal year starts Oct. 1, and council will receive a draft budget Aug. 15.

Union leaders are looking to make up ground they believe their members lost on pay in their current labor contract  the result of the unions decision to have a panel of arbitrators hammer out a new contract because of a six-year stalemate between the city and the union.

Jones has said the union wants to avoid arbitration this time around.

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And he isnt ruling out turning to campaign politics if the city doesnt budge.

Our firefighters and our paramedics, at this point, they feel disrespected, he told reporters after Tuesdays negotiations concluded. Is it really being taken seriously? Is it really a goal and objective to get this done and get it across the finish line?

He contends the fire department is being crowded out of the new city budget.

Jones said conversations are being had over whether the union will support or oppose any of the charter amendments that the City Council will this week decide to place on the Nov. 5 ballot for voter approval.

Nearly the entire council supports putting an amendment on the ballot that would eliminate a cap on how much the city manager is paid and an eight-year limit on how long he or she can hold the position. If voters approve that change, it would remove the salary and tenure restrictions that voters imposed in 2018 when they backed a union-led charter amendment.

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What stance the union takes could depend on how much city negotiators compromise later this month when the two sides return to the bargaining table.
MoS Home Nityanand Rai said in a written reply to Rajya Sabha on the question of Samik Bhattacharya, a BJP MP from West Bengal, that the National Investigation Agency is currently investigating 19 cases in West Bengal.

The status of the cases under investigation (no charge sheet has been filed so far) is 11. Charge-sheeted and under further investigation are 8.

MoS Home Rai further informed upper house that the NIA branch office in Kolkata has 81 sanctioned posts in various ranks.

The staff strength is reviewed from time to time and whenever there is a requirement on account of increase in workload, staff of other NIA branch offices are also assigned to assist NIA branch office, Kolkata. (ANI)
BJP leader N Ramchander Rao condemned attacks on Hindus and Hindu temples in Bangladesh on Wednesday and said the government of India should provide them with help. "No doubt, it is their internal matter and has its own repercussions for their country. But the attacks on the Hindu and Hindu temple are condemnable. It has to be condemned when Hindus are being persecuted in a non-Hindu country like Bangladesh and Pakistan," Rao told ANI. The BJP leader described the attacks as "nothing but purely religious persecution by some elements" in Bangladesh. He recalled the friendly relations between the two countries. "But despite this, some forces are attacking Hindus and Hindu temples. All sorts of help should be provided by India. It is a matter where humanity has to be respected," he added. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation, with Sheikh Hasina tendering her resignation from her post in the wake of mounting protests on August 5. The protests, led mainly by students demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, turned into anti-government demonstrations. A day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and left the country, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, Dhaka Tribune reported. Bangladesh President's Press Secretary, Joynal Abedin, made the announcement. The decision regarding the appointment of Bangladesh's interim government head was made during a meeting between President Shahabuddin and the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. (ANI)
Targeting Congress leader Salman Khurshid over his remarks on the Bangladesh protest, BJP MP Anurag Thakur said on Wednesday that the Congress wants to push the country into a state of anarchy and it shows the mentality of the party and its leaders. "Facing loss for three times in a row, Congress wants to push the country into a state of anarchy... They can do anything to take the country back in time. Such statements by Congress leaders show the mentality of the party and its leaders. I want to ask Congress; do they agree with this statement made by Salman Khurshid?" Thakur said. Meanwhile, Congress senior leader Salman Khurshid on Wednesday refused to be drawn further into controversy after it was reported that he had said that violent protests like Bangladesh are possible in India. When questioned by reporters over the statement the senior Congress leader said, "I say whatever I say in public, never in private." However, the BJP has severely criticised Salman Khurshid over his reported comments. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla said, "Congress party says that it stands with the government of India as far as the issue of Bangladesh is concerned because this is not a political issue and no politics should be done but their leader Salman Khurshid tried to provoke and incite the people of India." He further said, "This is another instance of Congress party putting rajneeti above Rashtraneeti. Is Salman Khurshid trying to undermine Indian democracy? Is Salman Khurshid trying to undermine Indian armed forces? This is the same Congress party that has despised 'deshvirodh' when trying to oppose Modi". Amid the political unrest in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh has said that it continues to remain operational and released helpline numbers for Indian nationals who reside there. According to sources, the diplomats and officials of the Indian High Commission continue to remain in Bangladesh, while non-essential staff and their families returned on Wednesday morning. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar 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. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court has directed all the concerned authorities to address the urgent needs at the Asha Kiran Shelter Home without delay. Expressing both urgency and disappointment, the Court instructed the Secretary to prioritise immediate action over procedural formalities and stressed that financial constraints should not be a barrier to addressing the critical issues. The bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and also comprising Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, asked the Secretary to request additional resources and staff, including contractual hires, to address the emergency. The court recorded the assurance from the Social Welfare Secretary that he will personally monitor the situation. The bench also directed the Secretary to file a fresh status report by Monday and urged him not to feel helpless, emphasising the need to address the crisis effectively. The court also suggested approaching the Lieutenant Governor for additional funds and recommended hiring contractual employees to address the staff shortage. The next hearing is scheduled for Monday. During the hearing, the secretary from the Social Welfare Department apprised the court that they have relocated 14 males to Asha Deep and 10 females to Asha Jyoti. Additionally, due to the current conditions, they have set up a dormitory at Asha Kiran and are temporarily housing 70 adult females in an air-conditioned auditorium to manage the heat. During the hearing, the bench directed the secretary to take immediate action to address the shelter's inadequate facilities. The court suggested bringing in mobile toilets and installing air conditioners to make the dormitory functional. The court noted that despite the efforts, the shelter is still dealing with an excess of 400 inmates. The bench emphasised the urgency of the situation by highlighting that human lives are invaluable and must be protected. The bench insists that the Secretary act swiftly to address the deficiencies at the shelter, including ensuring that the facilities are connected to nearby hospitals and that fully equipped ambulances are stationed at these locations. The court stresses that if these measures are not implemented, there should be accountability and changes in management. The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the Secretary of Social Welfare Ministry of the Government of NCT Delhi to visit the shelter home tomorrow and submit a report in connection with the recent death of several inmates at Asha Kiran, a shelter home in Rohini's Delhi for the intellectually disabled. The Court's direction came on Monday while hearing a Public Interest Litigation by a NGO called Samadhan Abhiyan concerning Deaths took place in said Shelter Home recently. The official report stated that a total of 25 deaths were recorded from February 2024, out of which 14 deaths occurred (Male-6, Female-8) in the shelter home in the month of July only. The report from Asha Kiran Shelter Home to the Delhi Government mentioned loose motion and unconsciousness as being the reason behind deaths. Other reasons included- mild fever, loose stools and vomiting. Reacting to the incident, Delhi Minister and AAP leader Atishi recently said, "Asha Kiran shelter home is being run in Delhi. Those who live here are abandoned people rescued by the police. A report is coming that 14 deaths have occurred here in July, among 14 one is a child. This is a serious matter and to investigate this a magisterial enquiry has been ordered. The preliminary report will be submitted within 24 hrs. If there is any negligence seen in the report by any official, strict action will be taken against them." (ANI)
The incident occurred under the jurisdiction of Hanuman Tal police station in the district on August 5 around 5 pm. Upon receiving a complaint from the victim, an FIR was registered into the matter, the police said.

Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Suryakant Sharma told ANI, "During the Jansunwai held here on Tuesday, a complainant Aman Chaudhary came and said that some construction work was done by one Rajesh Sonkar and he was thrashed badly as he kept his leg on that constructed spot."

After the complaint, an FIR has been registered against Sonkar and others into the matter and further investigation is underway, ASP Sharma added. (ANI)
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that the notice given by the Governor in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) case has "already been answered" and expressed hope that he would accept it. He said "I am confident that the Governor (Thawar Chand Gehlot) will accept the government's reply as it is by the law. I have not exerted any kind of influence in the allotment of the MUDA site," CM Siddaramaiah told reporters here. He said that "His wife was allotted an alternative site as per law in 2021 during the BJP government". "In 2014, when I was the Chief Minister, my wife filed an application seeking an alternative site, as she claimed that MUDA had taken the land illegally from her. But I did not take any action in this regard," he added. CM Siddaramaiah accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular) of levelling allegations against him to weaken the government after their "Operation Kamala" failed. "BJP and JDS parties are making allegations against me to destabilize the government. Since their failure to destabilize the government through Operation Kamala, they are making such accusations," he alleged. "Our government has successfully implemented guarantee schemes in the last year and they cannot tolerate us working for the poor," CM added. He said that the Centre was disappointed with the successful implementation of the guarantee schemes of the Karnataka government. He further said, "The Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) himself had said that the guarantee schemes cannot be implemented and was speaking against our schemes and schemes will soon stop even though it started. The Prime Minister is disappointed with the successful implementation of the guarantee schemes". Earlier, a complaint was filed by social activist Snehamayi Krishna against Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and nine others for allegedly forging documents to claim compensation from the Mysuru Urban Development Authority. The complaint alleges wrongdoing by Siddaramaiah, his wife Parvathy, his brother-in-law Malikarjuna Swamy Devaraj, who claimed to be a landowner, and his family. It was further alleged that MUDA created fake documents and obtained plots worth crores of rupees. Snehamayi Krishna has raised several questions in his complaint. The BJP demands that the land given to the CM's family should be returned. The opposition accused Siddaramaiah of usurping the lands that belonged to the Dalit community. (ANI)
In the night intervening on August 6 and 7, 2024, on specific information from BSF regarding the presence of Bangladeshi nationals in the general area of Gajaria under Police Station AD Nagar, West Tripura.

A joint operation was planned and carried out along with a team of PS AD Nagar near Jama Masjid, Muslim Para, Gajaria, with a total of eight Bangladeshi nationals, including 1 female tout.

During initial questioning, it was revealed that they were planning to enter Bangladesh.

In another case, 3 Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended at the Mobile Check Post in the general area of Amtali, jointly laid out by BSF troops and a PS Amtali team.

In a third separate incident, 10,000 yaba tablets worth Rs 50 lakhs were recovered jointly from a Motorcycle in area of BOP by BSF troops and a team of PS Kalamchoura, District Sepahijela.

And in another fourth case, on specific information from BSF, a joint operation was carried out by BSF troops of BOP Srinagar and a team of PS Srinagar near Indian village Krishna Nagar.

During joint operation, 9,500 packets of Cigarette ( PATRON and ORIS ) worth Rs 20 lakhs, 63 thousand recovered from a rubber bagan.

BSF, with active assistance of Tripura Police and other sister agencies, has intensified its domination on the border and hinterland to prevent attempts of infiltration exhilaration and trans border crime. (ANI)
A statement released by the Directorate of Public Relations, Government of Madhya Pradesh, on Wednesday said that Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will interact with prominent industrialists working in the Information Technology (IT), Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES), Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM), Textile and Garment, Aerospace and Defence, Automobile and OEM, pharmaceuticals, healthcare and medical device sectors.

He will also meet industrialists, highlighting the government's vision and innovations to promote investment, innovation, and sustainable development in Madhya Pradesh. There will also be MoUs in various sectors with industrialists willing to invest in the state, the statement added.

"A video film 'Advantage Madhya Pradesh' will be screened, which will give detailed information to the industrialists about the benefits and investment opportunities in the state. Experiences related to investment in Madhya Pradesh will be shared by leading industrialists. Information about other states' industrial scenarios and future development prospects will be shared," it added.

It added that CM Yadav will discuss innovations, investment and development with industrialists.

CM Yadav will reach Bengaluru in the evening on August 7 and will also talk to industrialists regarding investment at a round table meeting and networking dinner. (ANI)
At 1400 hrs on August 6, the Assistant Director of Fisheries, Chennai, informed Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Chennai regarding a medical emergency on board IFB Sengalamman which had set out from Chennai for fishing with 12 crew members on-board.

On receipt of the information, ICG Ship Samudra Paheredar, which was on patrol, was immediately diverted for assistance. Meanwhile, ICG Station Kakinada was alerted to arrange necessary medical assistance for the patient on arrival at Kakinada.

At 2230 hrs on August 6, ICG Ship Samudra Paheredar arrived on the scene and evacuated the patient along with two attendants from the IFB.

The Medical Officer on board ICG Ship Samudra Paheredar provided initial medical treatment to the patient. After stabilizing the patient, ICG Ship Samudra Paheredar transferred the patient and the attendants to ICG Ship C-430 for onward passage to Kakinada.

The Ship entered Kakinada at 0800 hrs on the same day and the patient was transferred to Government Hospital Kakinada for further medical care.

Timely medical evacuation underscores ICG's commitment to assistance to fishermen in distress, aligning with its motto 'Vayam Rakshamah,' meaning 'WE PROTECT. (ANI)
Kerala Health Minister Veena George said that the Kerala government has developed an SOP for the treatment of amoebic meningoencephalitis as the country does not have an SOP for it as it is a very rare disease globally. Speaking on the cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis in Kerala, George said, "We don't have an SOP in the country for amoebic meningoencephalitis because this is a very rare disease globally. Kerala has developed an SOP for the treatment of amoebic meningoencephalitis patients." She stated that they could discharge two children at the moment and have nine active cases, of which seven were reported in Thiruvananthapuram. "We could discharge two kids and now we have nine active cases who are under treatment. Seven cases were reported in Thiruvananthapuram. The first case was reported on 21 July and the patient passed away on 23rd," she said. She further stated that the condition of those patients was getting stable and if diagnosed in the initial stages and proper treatment was provided to the patients, then they could be brought back to life. "The Union government had supplied the medicine initially because this drug comes under the central supply... The condition of these patients is getting stable. If we diagnose the disease in the initial stage and ensure proper treatment, we can bring people back to life. We have formed a medical board that is monitoring their situation. We have contacted the ICMR for a combined study and research and it has responded positively," she said. She also mentioned that the disease wasn't contagious and wouldn't spread from one person to another through direct contact. "It's not a contagious disease. It will not spread from one person to another through direct contact. It spreads through amoeba and can occur in adults who have undergone surgery on the skull or have a sensitive nasal membrane. We were keen to find out how kids were getting infected... People got infected after coming in contact with contaminated water," she said. Earlier on July 5, the Kerala government held a meeting to discuss issues related to amoebic meningoencephalitis under the leadership of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. CM Vijayan instructed that people should avoid swimming in unclean bodies of water. He emphasised that swimming pools must be properly chlorinated. Health Minister Veena George, Chief Secretary Dr. Venu V., Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department Rajan Khobragade, and Director of the Virology Institute Dr. E. Sreekumar attended the meeting. On July 2, George held a high-level meeting of the health department in the background of two deaths and one case of hospitalisation due to amoebic meningoencephalitis in the last two months in the state. Notably, amoebic meningoencephalitis is a very rare disease in people who have contact with standing or running water sources. There are very few scientific studies and results about this rare disease. Statistics indicate that only 2.6 out of 10 lakh people who come in contact with such water in the world get this disease. The disease usually occurs when Naegleria fowleri, a type of amoeba, infects the brain. This disease is not transmitted from human to human. The amoeba that lives in stagnant water enters the human body through the thin skin of the nose and causes encephalitis, which seriously affects the brain. Free-living amoebas are generally found in stagnant water bodies. Bacteria from the amoeba family are transmitted through the fine pores in the nose by bathing in drains or pools. Enters the human body and severely affects the brain and causes encephalitis. Symptoms appear within one to nine days of infection. The primary symptoms are severe headache, fever, nausea, vomiting and difficulty turning the neck. Later, when it reaches a critical condition, there are symptoms like epilepsy, loss of consciousness and memory loss. Diagnosis is made by taking fluid from the spinal cord and testing it. People who bathe in stagnant water should report these symptoms and seek treatment. (ANI)
Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20-year-old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Pedro and Cindy Portillo IV, parents of 20 year old Bexar County Deputy Meredith Portillo, who was killed in a car accident in July, were seen at their daughters funeral on August 6 in San Antonio. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar was seen presenting a folded Texas flag to Pedro and Cindy Portillo during the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20 year old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar was seen presenting a folded Texas flag to Pedro and Cindy Portillo during the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20 year old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer Members of law enforcement, first responders, friends and family were seen at the funeral service of Meredith Portillo, a 20 year old Bexar County Deputy, who was killed in a car accident in July, on August 6. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer

Several hundred friends, family and officers paid their respects to a 20-year-old Bexar County deputy who was killed in a wrong-way crash.

Meredith Portillos pink casket, draped in the Texas flag, arrived in a horse-drawn carriage. She received full honors from the sheriffs office during her funeral, held at Cornerstone Church on Tuesday morning.

Her loved ones reflected on her life and heart.

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Portillo was one of three people killed on July 21 in a wrong-way crash on Interstate 37 while she was off-duty. She had been with the Bexar County Sheriffs Department since September and graduated from the detention academy in January with ambitions of becoming a patrol officer. She was recruited by her brother who is also a young deputy.

Officers from several agencies, from Shavano Park police to Bexar County constables and the Harris County Sheriffs Office, were there.

Portillos loved ones, friends and colleagues said they want her to be remembered for her positive, outgoing energy. They said she made a difference in the lives of people in her personal and professional life.

She touched so many peoples lives, said Rachel Alonzo, Portillos aunt, who said said Portillo would often ask her to share Scriptures with her. People that were incarcerated that knew her and people who knew her were saying how beautiful she was, how much love she radiated, how much joy she had.

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Alonzo encouraged those in attendance to honor Portillo by living life as she did.

Were here to mourn and most importantly to celebrate Merediths life. I ask that we carry forward the love and laughter that she brought into each and every one of our lives and our hearts, she said. Though she may no longer be here with us in life, her spirit will always echo in our hearts, reminding us to cherish every moment that we have with one another.

Sheriff Javier Salazar told those gathered that although he didnt know Portillo very well, he learned more about her after her death.

Shes the kind of person most of us would want to know better, Salazar said. Knowing what I know now, shes the kind of person I think we would all do better if we tried to be more like.

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Portillo was ambitious, driven and had a great work ethic, Salazar said.

She often worked overtime at the jail so she could afford the things she wanted and did so with a smile, he said. And she was known for speaking with inmates at the jail, sharing Scriptures and encouraging them to make better choices.

Officers received a call about a vehicle traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of I-37 at Loop 1604, according to a preliminary police report. The vehicle, a Ford F-150, crashed head-on into a Ford Mustang, police said.

Cindy Portillo said her daughter was about five minutes away from home when the crash happened. She and her friends had just enjoyed a night of riding scooters downtown, eating at In-N-Out Burger and Voodoo Doughnut.

Portillo and another passenger in the Mustang were killed on impact. The driver of the F-150 was also killed on impact. Another passenger in the vehicle with Portillo was sent to the hospital in critical condition.

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The sheriffs office said Tuesday that they did not have an update on the investigation into the crash, which is being handled by the San Antonio Police Department.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Rachna Reddy termed the reported statement of senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid as "irresponsible", "immature" and "deliberately dangerous". The senior Congress leader is reported to have said that "violent protests like Bangladesh are possible in India." "Salman Khurshid today has made an absolutely irresponsible, immature and deliberately dangerous statement. Other than being a Congress leader, Mr Khurshid should also remember that he is a person of the law. He is a designated senior counsel," Reddy told ANI. "...He actually had the audacity to state that what is happening in Bangladesh can happen here as well as in India. And that too in Kashmir. He says that everything in Kashmir may appear to be normal but in fact, it is actually not and that the 2024 win and the fact that democratic processes in Kashmir are going to be initiated very soon is in fact just a superficial aspect of Kashmir," she added. Rachna Reddy added, "What are you trying to say to the nation? What are you trying to preach to the nation? Are you saying that Kashmir is going the Bangladesh way? You are obviously saying it". Meanwhile, Congress senior leader Salman Khurshid on Wednesday refused to be drawn further into controversy after it was reported that he had said that violent protests like Bangladesh are possible in India. When questioned by reporters over the statement the senior Congress leader said, "I say whatever I say in public, never in private." The reported comments by the senior Congress leader have evoked a sharp reaction from the BJP leaders. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla said, "Congress party says that it stands with the government of India as far as the issue of Bangladesh is concerned because this is not a political issue and no politics should be done but their leader Salman Khurshid tried to provoke and incite the people of India." BJP MP Sambit Patra said, "He said it during a book release. From Congress' side, he warned that protests and arson could break out in India; what happened in Bangladesh could happen in India. So many other leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, were present there and they in a way supported that statement. Rahul Gandhi, whenever he went abroad, used to meet many people secretly and speak against India; now we are getting to know what his intention was." Earlier, reacting to the statement of Salman Khurshid, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said, "I want the Ministry of External Affairs to remain in constant touch with the leaders of the opposition parties. Keep providing us the information about the steps the Centre is taking. We are also getting information from various sources. If there is a dialogue between the government and the opposition parties, then we will also be able to convey our information to them." (ANI)
In a bid to empower the Forest Protection Force personnel, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma handed over 20 inflatable rubber boats to the Kaziranga National Park authority on Wednesday at a function held at Bagori Range in Kaziranga National Park. It may be noted that during the Chief Minister's review meeting on the safety of Kaziranga National Park in June, the personnel of the Forest Protection Force made a request for new patrol boats to have surveillance on any purported attempt of poaching and encroachment and take steps to check the menace. In view of the request, the boats have been delivered in less than 60 days. Later, Chief Minister Sarma visited the Hatimura embankment breach point at Kaliabor and took stock of the repair and restoration work. He expressed satisfaction at the pace at which repair work at the breach point has been accomplished and said that the embankment breach at Hatimura has been closed in 26 days. The team engaged in the repair work and worked day and night to overcome the operational challenges and complexities posed by the strong water current. He further said that, as of today, all embankment breaches in Assam are closed. Meanwhile, the Assam Chief Minister on Wednesday urged everyone to stay indoors following another round of heavy rain in the city. In a post on X, CM Himanta said, "Guwahati is experiencing another round of heavy rain. We request everyone to stay indoors and avoid using vehicles unless absolutely necessary. Additionally, please avoid vehicular movement towards the downtown hospital areas on GS Road." A total of 880 casualties have been reported as a result of devastating floods in Assam from 2019 to July 25 this year, the Ministry of Home Affairs has said. The flood in Assam has claimed the lives of 215 animals, including 13 one-horned rhinos, at Kaziranga National Park so far, officials said. Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park, said that 13 one-horned rhinos died after drowning in flood water in the national park. (ANI)
In the Delhi Excise Policy case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has requested a short adjournment to address its plea for the cancellation of bail granted to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The court expressed confusion about the potential consequences of cancelling the bail, questioning whether such a move would result in Kejriwal's re-arrest and saying, "I am confused. Are you going to arrest him again?" The Delhi High Court has questioned the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on whether canceling Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's bail would lead to his re-arrest. The court's inquiry aims to clarify the implications of the ED's plea for bail cancellation. The bench of Justice Neena Bansal later, adjourned the matter for September 5, 2024.Delhi High Court earlier had fixed August 7 for hearing on Enforcement Directorate's plea challenging trial court granted regular bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with Excise policy money laundering case. ED earlier in its reply stated that there is a a complete disregard to the vicarious role of Arvind Kejriwal under the section 70 of PMLA. Bail granted to him by trial court vacation judge is liable to be canceled, the order granting bail is based on irrelevant consideration or ignores relevant material. Last month, the Delhi High Court had stayed the trial Court order granting bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal while allowing Enforcement Directorate plea seeking stay on Trial Court order in the excise policy money laundering case. The vacation bench of Justice Sudhir Kumar Jain while passed the order said, Documents and arguments were not appreciated properly by the trial court properly. This court is of the view that the trial court has not applied its mind and has not considered the material properly, said the court. Earlier, ED submitted that the impugned order passed by trial court deserves to be stayed and set aside as a vacation judge has returned perverse findings in almost every paragraph of its order on both the facts and the law after admittedly not examining the material placed on record by the prosecution, ED told Delhi High Court. The Supreme Court on July 12, 2024, passed a judgement over Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest by ED and granted him interim bail. The two-judge bench of the Supreme Court also referred the matter to a larger bench question raised by Kejriwal on whether an arrest under Section 19 of PMLA could be quashed on the ground that such an arrest was both needless and unnecessary. (ANI)
During their meeting, they exchanged ideas on legislation and key political developments.

Taking to X, Devegowda said, "I met Union Health Minister and BJP President Shri JP Nadda avaru in New Delhi, today. We had a free exchange of ideas on some legislations and key political developments."

Earlier today, Devegowda also met with the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah here. They discussed various issues related to Karnataka.

"I had a cordial meeting today with Home Minister Shri Amit Shah avaru. We discussed various issues related to Karnataka," he said in X.

HD Devegowda was sworn in as the 11th Prime Minister of India after he resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Karnataka in 1996.

He also served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, from March 1972 to March 1976 and November 1976 to December 1977.

Devegowda became the President of the Janta Party twice at the state level and President of the State Janata Dal in 1994.

He was a driving force behind the Janata Dal's rise to power in the state in 1994. He was elected as the leader of the Janata Dal Legislative Party and in December he assumed office as the 14th Chief Minister of Karnataka. (ANI)
A senior BSF officer confirmed that a crowd of around 500 at three-four locations along International Border in North Bengal gathered.

"Initially, there were 50 people that swelled to 300-500 at various locations. The crowd is attempting to sneak into Indian territory," said the officer.

The officer added that the crowd was dispersed at all locations with the help of Border Guard Bangladesh, Civil Administration, and BSF personnel.

BSF North Bengal Frontier troops are vigilant and are on high alert amidst the ongoing Bangladesh crisis, carrying out extensive operations to ensure effective border management and prevent any illegal entry or smuggling activities along the Indo-Bangladesh Border. (ANI)
Delhi University has tightened the regulations for appointing guest faculty, mandating that such appointments can only be made against leave vacancies, including maternity leave, child care leave, and study leave. This directive has faced opposition from faculty members, who argue that it should be withdrawn as it will increase the workload of existing teachers. In a letter to colleges on Wednesday, the university emphasised that guest faculty appointments should strictly be made against specific leave vacancies, including maternity leave, child care leave, study leave, sabbatical leave, medical leave, and extra-ordinary leave. "...Principal(s) / Director(s) of University Colleges/Institutions are requested to ensure that under no circumstances appointment of guest faculty shall be made except against the leave vacancy i.e. Maternity Leave, Child Care Leave, Study Leave, Sabbatical Leave, Medical Leave and Extra Ordinary Leave and seek the panel of experts from the University only for these specific reasons," the letter read. The university has also urged colleges to fill up the vacant sanctioned teaching posts regularly after following due processes and procedures envisaged under the Ordinances of the University. "All vacant positions be advertised immediately and selection be made following due processes and procedures laid down in this behalf expeditiously," the university said. Faculty members have expressed their disappointment over the recent directive issued by Delhi University, stating that it will negatively impact the teaching and learning process as well as increase the workload for current teachers. "It is unfortunate that the University issues such notifications, which have a detrimental effect on the teaching-learning processes and the workload of teachers, without any discussion or consultation in statutory bodies," said Abha Dev Habib, a faculty member at Miranda House. Habib pointed out that previous academic reforms, including the Undergraduate Curriculum Framework (UGCF) and the delayed admissions caused by the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), have already damaged the university's reputation and affected both student learning experiences and the joy of teaching. Mithuraaj Dhusiya, an elected member of the Academic Council, echoed these concerns, highlighting additional issues. "The latest DU directive on guest teachers will have a tremendous negative impact on the teaching-learning process in colleges and university departments. Posts haven't been sanctioned to meet EWS reservation in admissions. No permanent recruitment has taken place in the 12 DU colleges which are 100 percent funded by the Delhi Government. The workload arising out of these long-standing issues cannot be managed by the existing staff. As a result, there will be total chaos in the University," Dhusiya stated. (ANI)
In view of ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, the North East Students' Organisation (NESO) has sought intervention from Union Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure that no illegal immigrants enter the North Eastern states from Bangladesh. The organisation also requested not even a single Bangladeshi should be granted asylum or rehabilitated in the entire North East region. In a letter sent to the Union Home Minister, NESO said that, at this juncture, it is also imperative for the Government of India to ensure that the border between North East India and Bangladesh is thoroughly and strictly manned to detect attempted illegal migration from across the border. NESO is a conglomeration of eight student bodies representing the seven states of Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura and comprises of the All Assam Students' Union (AASU), Khasi Students' Union (KSU), Garo Students' Union (GSU), All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU), Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), Naga Students' Federation (NSF), All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) and Twipra Students' Federation (TSF). "The NESO would like to draw your attention with regard to the tumultuous events in the neighbouring country of Bangladesh where a civil war-like situation is taking place. Such a situation can have serious ramifications in India, especially in the North East Region where four states share a common international boundary with Bangladesh. Tripura shares a boundary of 856 kilometres with Bangladesh, Meghalaya shares a 443 km long boundary, Mizoram shares a 318 km long boundary and Assam has a common boundary of 262 km with Bangladesh. The ongoing crisis in Bangladesh will and may lead to an exodus of its nationals into our country especially in the North East region. Past events indicate that whenever there is a civil war or a riot in Bangladesh, the North East region always had to bear the brunt of mass illegal immigration from the country," the NESO said in the letter. It also stated that, during partition in 1947, lakhs of Bengalis from East Pakistan illegally crossed the border and forcibly occupied lands in Assam and Tripura (then a Union Territory). "Similarly in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, again lakhs and lakhs of East Pakistanis, migrated into India territory including North East India creating a demographic imbalance, especially in the states of Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya (then a part of the composite state of Assam). This unabated flow of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh (East Pakistan) brings forth an air of tension and stiff competition in the North East. The North East region is home to a plethora of Indigenous communities that are microscopic in numbers and live amongst their own communities in traditionally marked territories," the letter said. "The arrival of millions of illegal foreigners from other countries led to a contestation of space, forced cultural assimilation, economic competition and distrust between the indigenous populace and the foreigners. These illegal foreigners settled in the lands of the indigenous communities without the consent of the community leaders and thus created a sense of animosity between the two groups. The illegal settlement of these millions of foreigners led to a drastic alteration of the demographic structure in most regions of the seven North Eastern states. Owing to the small populations of indigenous communities, the illegal foreigners overwhelmed the minuscule indigenous populace overnight. Land grabbing became the order of the day and the traditional way of life of the natives is being outrightly disregarded by these migrant foreigners whose ulterior motive is to forcibly carve a new homeland in the region at the cost of the dignity of the indigenous populace," it added. "Tripura, under the onslaught of mass migration since 1947 saw a dramatic rise of Bangladeshi populations leading to the native tribal population being reduced to a mere 30% in their own homeland and state. This even led to the snatching of political power by these immigrants and the native tribals have become second-class citizens. The tribal citizens of Tripura have to face discrimination, violence and marginalization on a daily basis. It is worth noting that Assam has and is still experiencing a mass influx of illegal migrants which led to a six-year-long Assam Movement, causing martyrdom to 860 lives which eventually led to the signing of the historic Assam Accord which promised to deport illegal Bangladeshis from Assam. Similarly, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh witnessed mass movements in the past and till date demanding the immediate deportation of all foreigners from their states after migrants overwhelmed the indigenous communities in many pockets of their respective states," the letter further added. The Students' Organisation of North East also said that such an unabated flow of immigrants into the region thus led to insecurity, agitations, riots and clashes between these foreigners and the indigenous people. "Therefore, the NESO humbly seeks your immediate intervention to ensure that no illegal enters the North Eastern states from Bangladesh and also requests that not even a single Bangladeshi should be granted asylum or rehabilitated in the entire North East region. At this juncture, it is also imperative for the Government of India to ensure that the border between North East India and Bangladesh is thoroughly and strictly manned so as to detect attempted illegal migration from across the border. That Sir, this appeal is made for the overall interest, welfare and safeguarding of the microscopic indigenous people of North East India and NESO is looking forward to a positive and swift response from your esteemed office," said in the letter. (ANI)
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma attended the convocation of Assam Forest Protection Corps constables held at Lachit Borphukan Police Academy in Dergaon on Wednesday. During the convocation held at the parade ground of Dergaon Police Training College, a total of 940 constables, including 90 girls and 850 boys, were recruited. During his address, Sarma said that he was happy to attend the convocation of the newly appointed soldiers. The rigorous training enabled the soldiers of the Assam Forest Protection Corps to face the challenges during their work. "To protect these forests and wildlife, we need more forest protection corps. As forests are located in interstate border areas, they will also have to shoulder the responsibility as border guards," he said. Thanking Assam Police for the action taken against the corrupt officials of the Public Service Commission, Sarma asked those who oppose the transparent recruitment process to accept today's scenario by leaving politics aside. "Getting a job without a bribe is an achievement of this government that people will always remember," he said. Referring to the recruitments from 2001 to 2014 being opened only for a particular community, he said that they had succeeded in moving one step forward towards the security of Assam's future, forest protection, caste, land, and border protection. He further informed that the recruitment process of Assam Police would start in October for recruitment in jobs in villages and cities. He also announced the development of the Police Academy at the national level and the appointment of 600 more soldiers in the Forest Protection Corps by next year and stated that the younger generation will also be able to join it. He also announced the provision of ACPS facilities and said that there is a need for a five-star hotel in Kaziranga to bring luxury tourists there. He further mentioned that in that situation, the tourism industry cannot move forward and said, "The place where we have planned to open the hotel is at a distance of one kilometer from the boundary of Kaziranga National Park. There are five-star hotels around all the parks in India." Speaking in the context of the flood problem in Guwahati, Sarma said, "The drains of the metropolis cannot drain water so fast; then, in this situation, there may be a problem of artificial flooding on one or two days in a year. 25 per cent of the total rainfall of the year has happened in the last two days. The main reason for the water coming from Meghalaya is the University of Science and Technology (USTM). They have established the university by encircling a mountain and cutting on it. During the establishment of this university, there was a need to oppose the Assam government. Along with this, a DPS was also established, taking advantage of the geographical advantage near Guwahati by cutting the mountains. I will talk to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya about this." Mentioning that arrangements had been made to take the water coming from the mountains to Dipor Bil or Silsako Lake, he said that the present government does not have enough funds. In the context of the coup in Bangladesh, he said, "The incident in Bangladesh has worried our state. Before the Sheikh Hasina government came to power, Assam as well as the northeastern states remained a safe place for the militant organisations. In the last 15 years, the northeastern states of India became safe for the Bangladesh government. I hope that Modi will try to maintain this situation by talking to the new government of Bangladesh. News of atrocities in Hindu temples, including the ISKCON temple in Bangladesh, is being circulated on social media. But nothing can be said until a formal announcement is made. I am afraid that if Hindus become a minority in Assam by the year 2041, a situation like Bangladesh will arise. I have been worrying about all these issues for the last three days." He also said that the appointment of the Assam LP UP teacher would be done based on merit on May 10. At the same time, about the VGR lands of Karbi Anglong, he said that the Assam government is with the Karbi Autonomous Governing Council. During the event, the constables of the Forest Protection Corps thanked Sarma, reiterating their pledge to perform their duties with loyalty and honesty in the interest of the country. After the oath-taking ceremony of the constables of the Corps, Sarma greeted the soldiers. Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patwari, Agriculture Minister Atul Bora, Chief Forest Conservator of the state MK Yadav, and Director General of Assam Police GP Singh were also present at the ceremony. (ANI)
BJP MP from Karnataka, Captain Brijesh Chowta, on Wednesday asked the question in the Lok Sabha regarding Waqf property state-wise, particularly for Dakshina Kannada. He posted on X and said, "Received a written reply from Hon'ble Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju to the question I raised in parliament regarding Waqf property & the process of designating any as such. In my question had sought to know whether there are state-wise records of all Waqf Property held by the Waqf Board across the country, particularly for Dakshina Kannada." "Also asked for details about changes in the landholding of the Waqf Board as well as the process of designating lands as Waqf properties. The data provided as part of the response makes for insightful reading regarding various issues esp in the context of the introduction of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill," he added. In a written reply to his question, it said that the Waqf Asset Management System of India (WAMASI Portal) was launched in the year 2010 and the records of waqf property held by the Waqf Boards across the country, are updated every month and accordingly monthly report are generated on this portal. "As of July 31, the details of 62,830 waqf properties are available on the portal for the state of Karnataka including Dakshina Kannada," the answer from Kiren Rijiju said. 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)
Acting on specific information regarding the presence of arms in fringe areas of the Kakching district of Manipur, a joint team of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles launched an extensive search operation on August 7 and recovered one AK Rifle, one 12 bore Single Barrel Rifle, two 9mm Pistols, 11 grenades, ammunition and other war-like stores.

The recovered items have been handed over to the Manipur Police for further investigation and disposal, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence said.

Earlier this month, the Indian Army, along with the Manipur Police conducted an intensive search operation and seized two AK-47 rifles, one Sniper rifle, one 9mm Pistol, three Grenades and other war-like stores in the general area of Uyungmakhong in Bishnupur District, Manipur.

The successful recovery of these war-like stores highlights the seamless cooperation between the Army and other law enforcement agencies, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring security and safety in the region. The Indian Army remains committed to its efforts to maintain peace and stability in the area. (ANI)
Texas State University regents are scheduled to vote Thursday on a contract with a private, third-party entity to establish a campus in Queretaro, Mexico. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News

Texas State University is considering opening a campus in Queretaro, Mexico, amid a long-running push by its leaders to boost its international profile.

The universitys board of regents is scheduled to vote Thursday on whether to approve a contract with a private, third-party entity  dubbed Texas State University Mexico  to establish a campus in the central Mexican state, according to the meetings agenda. Graduates would receive Texas State degrees, according to the agenda documents.

Texas State University Mexico is interested in collaborating with Texas State in bringing American-style education to Queretaro while Texas State is interested in providing such knowledge, know-how and services, the meeting agenda states.

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Templo de San Francisco at night, Franciscan church in the historic city centre of Queretaro, North-Central Mexico. Texas State University regents are scheduled to vote Thursday on a contract with a private, third-party entity to establish a campus in Queretaro, Mexico. Arterra/Arterra/Universal Images Group v

MORE COVERAGE: San Antonio airport getting new flight to Guadalajara

The campus would be the first for Texas State outside the U.S., although the San Marcos-based school has recently begun partnering with foreign universities to offer summer programs for its own students and taught by its own faculty.

Texas State would approve the curriculum and decide the admission requirements for the new campus, while Texas State University Mexico would supply the site and employ the faculty and staff, according to the meeting agenda. Texas State wouldnt have the authority to hire or fire the faculty and staff.

The agenda documents didnt specify where Texas State University Mexicos funding would come from, or what its precise relationship would be to Texas State. The meeting agenda indicates the proposed contract would have a duration of 10 years and a price of $10 million, but didnt specify whether Texas State would bear that cost. The agenda also states that it would be a revenue generating contract and that Texas State University Mexico would pay Texas State $18 per semester credit hour in the first year, with that rate increasing over time.

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As of Wednesday afternoon, Texas State representatives hadnt sent responses to questions from the Express-News seeking more information about the proposed contract.

The agenda documents didnt say whether the campus would be in the city of Santiago de Queretaro, commonly known as Queretaro, or elsewhere in the Mexican state also known as Queretaro. The region is a popular tourist destination and is known as an aerospace and auto manufacturing powerhouse. In December, the Mexican airline Viva Aerobus launched a flight between San Antonio International Airport and Queretaro Intercontinental Airport, near Santiago de Queretaro.

Tourists take a selfie on July 19, 2020 in Queretaro, Mexico. Texas State University regents are scheduled to vote Thursday on a contract with a private, third-party entity to establish a campus in Queretaro, Mexico. Jam Media/Getty Images

Texas State has striven in recent years to expand its reach outside the U.S. Earlier this year, President Kelly Damphousse told the board of regents that the university was looking to increase its enrollment and that he saw international students as a source of growth.

The university has already been attracting more international students, with 1,030 in the spring semester of this year  out of a total student body of 35,378  up from 951 in fall 2023, according to its website. The number of international students in spring semester this year was more than double the total in fall 2014, when the university had 503 international students.

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Texas State Global, a division of the university dedicated to boosting its international impact, says on its website that it is in the beginning stages of building relationships with international institutions to create academic pathways where students can earn a Texas State degree. It is also starting to work with foreign institutions on collaborative degree programs.

This summer, the university launched a pilot of what it calls its Summer Hub program, partnering with the University of Padova in Italy to offer a three-week program for Texas State students to take classes in Padova taught by the universitys own faculty. Next summer, it is expanding the program to cities in Scotland, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica and Australia.
After the Maha Vikas Aghadi meeting today in line with the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly polls, State Leader of Opposition and Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar said that the alliance MVA will organise a rally on August 16 and the work on the manifesto is underway. "In today's meeting, all three party leaders were present. All three parties discussed our manifesto, our formula, and our future course of action. We have planned to organize a big rally or a meeting on 16 August at Shanmukhananda Hall. For the upcoming elections in Maharashtra, MVA will officially come together on 16 August. Work on our manifesto is underway under the leadership of former CM Prithviraj Chavan. We will organize one or two more meetings by the end of this month," Wadettiwar said. Earlier today, former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief, Uddhav met Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi. Uddhav was accompanied by his son, Aditya Thackeray, and the duo met Congress top brass in New Delhi. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut and Congress MP KC Venugopal were also present in the meeting. NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar also met Uddhav Thackeray at the residence of Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut today. Maha Vikas Aghadi parties are bracing for the upcoming assembly elections in Maharashtra. Congress also held a meeting of its state leaders on August 4. The state is likely to go to poll for the 288-member legislative assembly later this year, as the tenure of the current government ends in 2024. However, the Election Commission has yet to announce the dates. The BJP dipped to nine seats in Maharashtra against 23 in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The vote share stood at 26.18 per cent. The Congress, on the other hand, marginally improved its seat share by securing 13 seats in the state. The Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) won seven and one seats respectively, taking the total tally of the NDA to 17. The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) got nine seats while the Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar won eight seats. (ANI)
The Consul General of the United States at Hyderabad, Jennifer Larson, on Wednesday, called on Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar to discuss ways to strengthen the partnership between the US and Odisha. Majhi welcomed the Consul General and emphasised strengthening partnerships between the US and Odisha in various sectors such as industries, education, renewable energy, tourism, and culture. Citing Odisha's advantages, such as trained manpower and availability of land, water, and energy, he sought the cooperation of the US Consul in facilitating larger participation of US industries in the upcoming Utkarsh Utkal Conclave (formerly Make-in-Odisha), which will be held from 6-7 months from now. Majhi also expressed his keenness to collaborate with US universities in frontier areas like artificial intelligence and machine learning. He also sought cooperation in higher education with partnerships between US and Odisha universities and expressed his desire for US investment for setting up the semiconductor industry in Odisha. Further, CM extended an invitation for American companies to explore the vast potential of Odisha and explore its vibrant culture, rich heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. He expressed his desire to promote cultural exchanges, educational collaborations, and people-to-people connections. Participating in the discussion, US Consul General Jennifer Larson congratulated CM Manjhi for assuming office. She said that the industrial climate in Odisha is very encouraging and the US is keen to partner with Odisha for commercial engagement. She also appreciated the vibrant culture of Odisha and expressed that the US is interested in supporting Odisha in all possible sectors as per the priorities of the state. Development Commissioner Anu Garg and Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Nikunja Bihari Dhal were present at the meeting among others. (ANI)
Telangana Congress MLA, Aadi Srinivas, has written a letter to the Embassy of India in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, seeking immediate repatriation of an individual Imran, a critically ill Indian citizen from Rajanna Sircilla district. "I am writing to bring to your urgent attention the plight of Imran, a resident of Rajanna Sircilla district who is currently in Saudi Arabia and is in dire need of medical attention and repatriation," Srinivas said in the letter. "Imran, a young man from Sircilla town, went to Saudi Arabia a month and a half ago to work at a supermarket. Unfortunately, he underwent a surgical procedure about 15 days ago and has been experiencing serious health complications since then. Despite repeated requests, his employer has refused to send him back to India," he added. In a heart-wrenching video that has gone viral on social media, Imran has appealed to the Chief Minister for help, stating that his employer is threatening to kill him if he continues to demand repatriation. He has also requested assistance from the government whip, Vemulawada MLA Adi Srinivas, and Sircilla Congress in-charge KK Mahender Reddy. "Given the critical nature of Imran's condition and the threats he is facing, I urge you to take immediate action to secure his safe return to India. His life is in grave danger, and any delay could have tragic consequences," Srinivas said. "I request you to kindly intervene in this matter and use your influence to expedite the process of bringing Imran back home," he added. (ANI)
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha praised the quality of handloom products produced in Purbasha on National Handloom Day, stating that they are very good and usable and urging the public to support local artisans and handicrafts. Chief Minister Saha emphasised the need to purchase products produced by self-help groups and related organisations. While interacting with the media, Saha mentioned that August 7 is significant as it is part of the Swadeshi movement. He recalled that Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, called for the Swadeshi movement on this day. "Keeping this in mind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the initiative to celebrate this day as National Handloom Day in 2015. 'Vocal for local,' meaning the products we produce that we use, has been a longstanding custom. Today, on the occasion of National Handloom Day, I visited Purbasha in Agartala. I have been here a few times before and saw many things today," he said. Apart from celebrating this special day, the Chief Minister appealed to the people of the state to visit Purbasha and buy handicrafts on other days as well. Saha emphasised purchasing products produced by self-help groups and related organisations, reiterating that the quality of handloom products produced in Purbasha is very good and usable. During his visit to Purbasha, Saha was accompanied by Purbasha Chairman and MLA Kishore Barman, along with other officials. The Chief Minister inspected various products produced there. Purbasha is a Tripura Government Handicraft Emporium that sells products made by local artisans from Tripura. The sales directly benefit these artisans, promoting the state's traditional crafts. (ANI)
Additionally, he said that the welfare of students from Madras University is being neglected, which sparks concerns about the government's commitment to youth of the state.

Prasad reiterated, "Thousands of students who completed their studies in 2023 and 2024 are still awaiting their graduation certificates due to the prolonged vacancy of the Vice-Chancellor position. This delay has resulted in significant consequences, including missed opportunities for higher education, domestic job losses, and visa processing issues for abroad studies.".

He highlighted that the absence of a vice chancellor has left students demotivated and frustrated, raising questions about the Tamil Nadu government's commitment to public education.

"We urge the government to prioritise the welfare of students and take immediate action to address their concerns," he added.

According to ANS Prasad, the government's prompt response to the hotel industry's requests, while neglecting students' welfare, raises concerns about its priorities.

He condemned it, saying, "It is unacceptable that the government creates opportunities for revenue through liquor sales while disregarding the future of its educated citizens."

"We request the Government of Tamil Nadu and the Governor to take immediate action: appoint a Vice-Chancellor for Madras University, issue graduation certificates to affected students, and address the concerns of students impacted by this delay", he advised.

Prasad demanded transparency in investigations and decision-making processes and to hold the government accountable, to ensure a brighter future for the students of Tamil Nadu.

"We request a prompt response and resolution to this matter, ensuring that the students of Madras University can pursue their dreams without further hindrance," he added. (ANI)
Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Mohan Yadav paid a courtesy visit to Governor of Karnataka Thaawarchand Gehlot at Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru on Wednesday. The visit came ahead of the third interactive investment session in Bengaluru, which is being held on August 7 and 8 this year, as per a press release. In the upcoming meeting of the investment session, Yadav will meet prominent industrialists across various sectors, including information technology (IT), information technology-enabled services (ITES), electronics system design and manufacturing (ESDM), textiles, aerospace and defence, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and medical devices. This initiative aims to promote Madhya Pradesh as a favourable investment destination and foster economic growth through strategic partnerships. This came after an investment session held in Mumbai and Coimbatore regarding investment in Madhya Pradesh. Yadav will also meet industrialists, highlighting the government's vision and innovations to promote investment, innovation, and sustainable development in Madhya Pradesh. There will also be MoUs in various sectors with industrialists willing to invest in the state, the statement added. "A video film 'Advantage Madhya Pradesh' will be screened, which will give detailed information to the industrialists about the benefits and investment opportunities in the state. Experiences related to investment in Madhya Pradesh will be shared by leading industrialists. Information about other states' industrial scenarios and future development prospects will be shared," it added. It added that CM Yadav will discuss innovations, investment, and development with industrialists. According to an official statement, Madhya Pradesh is going to seek investments from space tech companies for the first time to take the support of new technologies and use them in the development plans in the state. "Space technology companies provide satellite imagery and data analytics. Global monitoring and accuracy of data improve through satellites. These companies are developing the latest technology to monitor space pollution and orbital objects. These companies aim to increase security in space," the statement read. CM Yadav will also interact with industrialists and will invite major companies in this sector to invest in Madhya Pradesh. He will also discuss the possibility of investment in Madhya Pradesh from companies like Pixxel, Digantara, Galaxeye, SatSure, and KaleidEO Sky Server. SatSure Company provides satellite imagery, which is very useful for the agricultural sector. Similarly, Pixxel builds and operates small satellites based on Earth's images, the release added. (ANI)
The BJP-led government is slated to introduce the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha on Thursday to amend the Waqf Act, 1995. The bill seeks to "effectively address issues" related to the powers of the State Waqf Boards, registration and survey of waqf properties and removal of encroachments. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 is listed for introduction by Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju in Lok Sabha on Thursday. The government has decided to withdraw the Waqf Properties (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants), Bill, 2014 which was introduced in Rajya Sabha in February 2014, when Congress-led UPA government was in power. The Waqf Properties (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants), Bill, 2014 is listed for withdrawal from Rajya Sabha on Thursday. Apart from introducing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Rijiju will also introduce The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024 which seeks to repeal the Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, Waqf Act provides for the renaming of the Waqf Act, 1995, as the Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995. It seeks to clearly define "waqf" as waqf by any person practicing Islam for at least five years and having ownership of such property and ensure that creation of Waqf-alal-aulad does not lead to the denial of inheritance rights to women. It also seeks to omit the provisions relating to the "waqf by user", provide the functions of the Survey Commissioner to the Collector or any other officer not below the rank of Deputy Collector duly nominated by the Collector for the survey of waqf properties, provide for a broad-based composition of the Central Waqf Council and the State Waqf Boards and ensure representation of Muslim women and non-Muslims. According to the statement of objects and reasons, the bill seeks to provide for establishment of separate Board of Auqaf for Boharas and Aghakhanis. It provides for the representation of Shia, Sunni, Bohra, Agakhani and other backward classes among Muslim communities, streamlining the manner of registration of waqfs through a central portal and database and providing for a detailed procedure for mutation as per revenue laws with due notice to all concerned before recording any property as waqf property. The bill seeks to omit section 40 relating to the powers of Board to decide if a property is waqf property, provide for filing of accounts of waqf by mutawallis to the Board through a central portal for better control over their activities, reform the Tribunal structure with two members and provide for appeals against the orders of the Tribunal to the High Court within a specified period of ninety days. Sources said that it was decided in the Business Advisory Committee that the Waqf Amendment Bill will be introduced in Lok Sabha on Thursday. Opposition parties are keen that the bill should be sent to the tanding committee. (ANI)
The Justice Department has charged a Pakistani man with alleged links to the Iranian government for seeking to carry out political assassinations in the United States, potentially targeting U.S. government officials, according to court documents unsealed Tuesday, as reported by CNN. This case has led the US government to increase security for former President Donald Trump and other officials. While the criminal complaint does not name Trump explicitly, multiple sources have told reporters that one of the intended targets of the alleged plot was Trump. According to the court document, a federal complaint unsealed in Brooklyn has charged Asif Merchant, also known as "Asif Raza Merchant," a 46-year-old Pakistani national, with murder-for-hire in connection with a foiled assassination plot targeting a politician or US government officials on American soil. The plot was thwarted by law enforcement before any attack could be executed. Merchant is currently in federal custody in New York, according to the press release released by the FBI. "Fortunately, the assassins Merchant allegedly tried to hire were undercover FBI Agents," said Acting Assistant Director Christie Curtis of the FBI New York Field Office. "This case underscores the dedication and formidable efforts of our agents, analysts and prosecutors in New York, Houston, and Dallas. Their success in neutralizing this threat not only prevented a tragic outcome but also reaffirms the FBI's commitment to protecting our nation and its citizens from both domestic and international threats." "Working on behalf of others overseas, Merchant planned the murder of US government officials on American soil," said US Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. "This prosecution demonstrates that this Office and the entire US Department of Justice will take swift and decisive action to protect our nation's security, our government officials and our citizens from foreign threats." Merchant travelled to New York City and worked with a hit man to carry out the assassinations in late August or early September, federal prosecutors said in a court complaint. The complaint says the plot was intended to target high-ranking US officials, potentially including Trump. FBI investigators believe that the intended targets included Trump and other current and former US government officials. According to court documents, Merchant orchestrated a plot to assassinate a politician or US government officials on US soil. In approximately April 2024, after spending time in Iran, Merchant arrived in the United States from Pakistan and contacted a person he believed could assist him with the scheme. This individual reported Merchant's intentions to law enforcement and became a confidential source. In early June, during a meeting with the confidential source, Merchant outlined his assassination plot and suggested that this opportunity would not be a one-time event. He made a gesture resembling a gun while discussing the killing and specified that the targets would be "here," referring to the United States. Merchant's plan included various criminal activities: stealing documents from a target's residence, organizing protests, and ultimately assassinating a political figure or government official. He expressed concerns about security measures surrounding potential targets and discussed multiple scenarios for carrying out the assassination. In mid-June, Merchant met with individuals he believed were hitmen but were actually undercover FBI agents (UCs). During these meetings, he sought their services for theft and assassination and indicated that he would provide instructions on whom to kill after leaving the US. Merchant arranged to pay USD 5,000 in cash as an advance for the assassination services and successfully delivered this payment on June 21. Following this transaction, he made plans to leave the country on July 12, 2024, one day before Trump's assassination attempt. However, law enforcement intervened and arrested him before he could depart, the court document added. (ANI)
Former Sri Lankan Army Chief, Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, has expressed concerns over the presence of Chinese surveillance ships in the Indian Ocean region, particularly in Sri Lankan territorial waters. He also acknowledged the concerns raised by India and the US, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the security sentiments of neighbouring countries, especially India. Fonseka stated that he does not approve of any military presence within Sri Lanka's territorial waters or territory and recognized the close relationship between Sri Lanka and India, stressing the need to understand and address Indian security concerns in the region. "There was a bit of hue and cry a couple of months back about the Chinese surveillance ship coming to the territorial waters of Sri Lanka. India didn't like it. The USA expressed their concerns also," Fonseka told ANI on Tuesday. "I don't approve the presence of any military personnel within the territorial waters or the territory of our country...We have to give priority to the security sentiments of India. Being a neighbour, we have a close relationship with India. We must understand the issues relevant to Indian security in the region," he added. The former Army Chief described the presence of Chinese surveillance ships as "unwarranted" and assured that if held responsible, he would ensure such incidents do not recur. "It was a highly unwarranted incident. If I am held responsible at some stage, I will ensure that type of thing doesn't take place. Nothing will happen to upset the concerns of our neighbours in the region, especially India being the regional power," he said. Fonseka also spoke on his announcement for presidential candidacy in the Sri Lanka election, which is going to be held in September. He shared his experience in ending terrorism in Sri Lanka as a motivation for entering politics. He criticized the government's handling of the war effort, citing administrative issues, lack of facilities for soldiers, and corruption. "I came into politics soon after the army, which was commanded by me, ended terrorism in Sri Lanka...We were facing a lot of difficulties towards the latter stage of the war, administrative issues, and no facilities for soldiers," he said. "The government was not interested in looking after those aspects...There was corruption building up in the government circles. The politicians knew how to look into the issues of the civilians and establish permanent peace in the country, but they were not interested in it," he added. Fonseka pledged to address corruption and nepotism, ensure development and emphasized his intention to guide the people and highlight the country's weak areas, stating that he sees no other leader with a similar vision. "I will ensure that the people are not being taken on a ride and the government will not continue to cheat and betray the people...The politics in the country as a whole is very corrupt and not in the interests of the country," he said. "The politicians have no vision...We have to change the political nature of the country and ensure that we bring development, and stop corruption and nepotism...I don't see any other leader who has a vision to do all that. I will come to the forefront to tell the people about the weak areas and try to guide them," he added. Earlier, a Chinese ship was permitted to dock for replenishment at the port of Colombo, the Indian Ocean island's main port, from October 25 until October 28 last year, according to Foreign Ministry spokesman Kapila Fonseka. The vessel had been expected to conduct research with Sri Lankan state institutions, but Fonseka said permission was granted only for replenishment and no research work would be carried out. Similarly, in January this year, Sri Lanka declared a yearlong moratorium on foreign research ships entering its waters amid India's concerns over Chinese vessels docking in the region. (ANI)
The violence has led to multiple deaths and the destruction of homes and temples of Hindus.

Wilders is a Dutch politician who has led the right-wing to far-right Party for Freedom since he founded it in 2006.

https://x.com/geertwilderspvv/status/1820698367766179900

"The violence against Hindus in Bangladesh is horrific. They are being killed and their houses and temples are burnt by barbaric Islamic mobs. This must be stopped immediately!" Wilders said in a post on X on Tuesday.

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.

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.

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)
Rhyma Castillo is a trending reporter for the Express-News and a member of its Digital Go Team. She can be reached at rhyma.castillo@express-news.net.

A native of San Antonio and a Texas A&M University graduate, she is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience. She has reported on politics, immigration, climate change, gun violence, and workers rights. Additionally, she excels in lifestyle and entertainment writing, covering music, television, video games, technology, and relationships.

In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, cooking, hiking, climbing, gardening, playing video games, cuddling with her cats, and making music with her band.
As the situation in Bangladesh deteriorates following Sheikh Hasina's resignation, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) President, AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon, has urged India to arrest the former Prime Minister and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, and return them to Bangladesh, as reported by Dhaka Tribune. At a press conference held at the SCBA auditorium, Khokon stated, "We want to maintain a positive relationship with the people of India. Please arrest Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana, who fled the country, and send them back to Bangladesh." He also accused Hasina of causing numerous deaths in Bangladesh, adding, "Sheikh Hasina has killed many people in Bangladesh." Several pro-BNP lawyers were present at the conference. Khokon, who is also a joint secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), urged against declaring a state of emergency and demanded the resignation of Supreme Court judges involved in political activities and corruption within a week, Dhaka Tribune reported. He also called for the resignation of state law officers, including Attorney General AM Amin Uddin, and the heads and officials of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), as they were appointed by the Hasina-led government. Additionally, Khokon demanded the release of political prisoners. 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, currently on a three-nation tour, offered prayers at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Fiji's Nadi on Wednesday morning. Earlier in the day, she addressed the Indian community in Fiji during an event and 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. 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 the Indian diaspora. 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 of Girmits and their descendants and declaring 'Fiji Day' to recognise their contribution. President Murmu departed from New Delhi on Sunday for a six-day visit to Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. On the second leg of her visit, Murmu will visit New Zealand on August 7-9 at the invitation of Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, Governor General of New Zealand. During the state visit, Murmu will hold a bilateral meeting with Governor General Kiro and meet with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and also address an education conference and interact with the Indian community and friends of India, the ministry said. 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)
Cairo [Egypt], August 7 (ANI/WAM): Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi spoke by phone with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. The two leaders discussed the regional situation, especially in the Gaza Strip. They reviewed the intensive contacts by the two countries to contain the tense situation in the Middle East. The two leaders stressed the priority of achieving calm at the current stage, especially reaching an immediate and sustainable ceasefire in the Strip, to de-escalate the tension and end the humanitarian catastrophe that the people of Gaza are facing. They stressed that the main guarantor for restoring stability in the region is to find a political horizon to achieve a just and comprehensive peace, based on the two-state solution, which guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. (ANI/WAM)
Former US President Donald Trump has announced that he will be interviewed by billionaire CEO and entrepreneur Elon Musk next week. "On Monday night I'll be doing a major interview with Elon Musk," the former president wrote on his Truth Social media platform. "Details to follow," Trump added, as reported by US publications including The Hill newspaper. The Republican presidential nominee was recently interviewed at his Mar-a-Lago residence by live streamer Adin Ross. Trump noted that the interview with Ross helped the streaming platform 'Kick' break its viewing record. Last month, Musk, who owns the social media platform X, endorsed Trump's candidacy after the former president was injured in an attempted assassination in Pennsylvania. This endorsement marked a departure from the usual self-declared neutrality maintained by social media platform leaders, as reported by The New York Times. Following the January 6, 2021, attack on Capitol Hill, Trump's account was permanently suspended by Twitter (now X) under its previous ownership. However, under Musk's ownership, the account was reinstated. According to a Wall Street Journal report, Musk, who also owns SpaceX and Tesla, pledged USD 45 million per month to a new political action committee backing Trump. The America PAC will primarily focus on voter outreach and registration efforts to counter the Democrats' traditionally strong campaigns. Trump's planned talk with Musk comes after Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. On August 4, The Washington Post reported that five secretaries of state planned to send an open letter to Musk on Monday, urging him to "immediately implement changes" to X's AI chatbot Grok, after it shared false information suggesting that Kamala Harris was not eligible to appear on the 2024 presidential ballot. The letter, spearheaded by Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon and signed by his counterparts Al Schmidt of Pennsylvania, Steve Hobbs of Washington, Jocelyn Benson of Michigan, and Maggie Toulouse Oliver of New Mexico, urges Musk to ensure voters have accurate information in this critical election year. (ANI)
The Indian Embassy in Laos rescued 14 Indian youth from cyber-scam centers in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (SEZ). It further said that officials are working tirelessly with Laos authorities to ensure their safe return back to India. So far, 548 Indian youth have been rescued, according to the Indian Embassy in Laos. In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Laos stated, "Embassy rescues 14 more Indian youth from cyber-scam centres in Golden Triangle SEZ. Our officials work tirelessly and closely with Lao authorities to ensure their safe return back to India. 548 Indian youth rescued so far. Important Advisory for Indian youth in thread below." https://x.com/IndianEmbLaos/status/1821038261672059112 It also issued an advisory for Indian nationals regarding job offers in Laos. It asked Indian nationals not to put themselves at risk regarding any job offers which may be luring and forcing them into committing cyber scams. While sharing the advisory on X, the Indian Embassy in Laos stated, "Indian youth advised NOT to put themselves at risk regarding any job offers in Lao PDR / Laos which may be luring and forcing them into committing cyber-scams. Do read and follow the enclosed Advisory carefully." In a statement, the Indian Embassy in Laos said, "Instances have come to our notice recently wherein Indian nationals are being lured for employment through Thailand in Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR) also known as Laos." "These fake jobs are for posts such as of 'Digital Sales and Marketing Executives' or 'Customer Support Service by dubious companies involved in call-centre scams and cryptocurrency fraud in Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos. Agents in places such as Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore and India associated with these firms are recruiting Indian nationals by taking a simple interview and the typing test, and are offering high salaries, hotel bookings along with return air tickets and visa facilitation," it added. The Indian Embassy in Laos said that victims are illegally taken across the border into Laos from Thailand and held captive to work in Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos under "harsh and restrictive conditions." In a statement, the Indian Embassy in Laos stated, "Victims are illegally taken across the border into Laos from Thailand and held captive to work in Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos under harsh and restrictive conditions. At times, they are taken hostages by criminal syndicates indulging in illegal activities and forced to work in strenuous conditions under constant physical and mental torture." "In some other cases, Indian workers have been brought to Laos to work in other regions of Laos in low-cost jobs such as mining, wood factory, etc. In most cases, their handlers exploit them and endanger them in illegal work. A number of Indians have been rescued under very difficult conditions," it added. The Indian Embassy noted that visas on arrival in Thailand or Laos do not permit employment and the Lao authorities do not issue work permits to Indian nationals traveling to Laos on such visas. It may be noted that a tourist visa is to be used only for tourism purposes only. https://x.com/IndianEmbLaos/status/1821041317277003797 Earlier in July, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called on Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. During the meeting, Jaishankar had taken up the issue of the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centers. Jaishankar also discussed the relief and rescue of Indians with the foreign ministers of Cambodia and Thailand. In a post on X, he said, "During my call on the Prime Minister of Lao PDR, took up the issue of the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centers. Appreciate the ongoing cooperation of Lao PDR government in the rescue and relief of our citizens. Also discussed the matter with the Foreign Ministers of Cambodia and Thailand." (ANI)
The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh remains functional and senior diplomats and essential staff continue to remain in the country, sources told ANI. Non-essential staff and families of Indian diplomatic missions have returned to India on a voluntary basis through a commercial flight, the sources said. Amid political unrest in Bangladesh, an Air India flight from Dhaka carrying 199 passengers and six infants landed in Delhi early this morning. Air India operated a special charter flight at short notice despite infrastructure challenges at Dhaka Airport late last night and landed in Delhi early this morning, as per information provided by sources. Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina tendering her resignation from her post in the wake of mounting protests on August 5. The protests, led mainly by students demanding an end to the quota system for government jobs, evolved into anti-government demonstrations. A day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and left the country, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, Dhaka Tribune reported. Bangladesh President's Press Secretary, Joynal Abedin, made the announcement. The decision regarding the appointment of Bangladesh's interim government head was made during a meeting between President Shahabuddin and the coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar 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. "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." "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. He said that the growing violence included attacks on public buildings and infrastructure, as well as traffic and rail obstructions. Jaishankar said, "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." (ANI)
US Vice President Kamala Harris has described her campaign as "not just a fight against former US President Donald Trump" but a "fight for our future," CNN reported. She said that she is fighting for affordable housing, child care, and healthcare. The Democratic Party's presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, made the remarks at her first rally with running mate Tim Walz. "This campaign, our campaign, it's not just a fight against Donald Trump. Our campaign, this campaign, is a fight for the future," Harris said in a rally in Philadelphia. She stated, "We fight for a future where we bring down prices that are still too high and lower the cost of living for American families so that they have the chance not just to get by but to get ahead." Her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz stood behind her and cheered for her. Kamala Harris said she set out to "find a partner who can help build this brighter future" and turned to introduce Walz to the audience. She stated that he is the partner her campaign has been seeking. She called Democrats "underdogs in the race" and noted that the party has the momentum. Harris said, "Listen, we also need to level set." Harris stated, "We are the underdogs in this race, but we have the momentum, and I know exactly what we are up against." She said Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who was one of the finalists to be her running mate, will help Democrats secure victory in a key state in November, CNN reported. She called Shapiro "a dear friend and an extraordinary leader." Josh Shapiro made the remarks just before Harris and Tim Walz addressed the crowd at the rally. Walz said the Democratic Party will win Pennsylvania with Shapiro's help. At the rally, Kamala Harris said, "I stand before you today to proudly announce I am now, officially, the Democratic nominee for president of the United States." She said, "And so, now we got some work to do. We need to move to the general election and win that." Harris' remarks came as the Democratic Party announced that US Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are officially the Democratic nominees for president and vice president. The Democratic National Committee announced that Harris won the presidential nomination. She is the first woman of color and the first Asian American to lead a major party ticket. Harris won 99 per cent of the vote, according to the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Harris recalled her background growing up in California, contrasting that with the upbringing of her new running mate, Tim Walz, who was raised in Nebraska, CNN reported. Kamala Harris said, "We both believe in lifting people up, not knocking them down." She said, "We both know the vast majority of people in our country have so much more in common than what separates them." Harris said, "We are running a campaign on behalf of all Americans and when elected, we will govern on behalf of all Americans." Tim Walz thanked Kamala Harris for "the trust you put in me" and "bringing back the joy." At a joint rally, he said, "I'm thrilled to be on this journey with you and Doug," referring to Harris' husband, Doug Emhoff, CNN reported. Kamala Harris also changed her profile cover photo on the X platform, with 'Harris Walz' on a blue background.The "chemistry" between Kamala Harris and her newly selected running mate, Tim Walz, was "really important and it really clicked for both of them," CNN reported citing a source. This came after President Joe Biden quit the presidential race amid mounting concerns over his age, particularly after his debate with Donald Trump in June. On the other hand, Trump is eyeing a comeback to the White House and has named JD Vance as his running mate in the race. (ANI)
Amid the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, reports have emerged of false narratives being created through social media to fuel anti-India sentiments among the people. Various X accounts have been found spreading disinformation about India in Bangladesh, aimed at instigating Bangladeshis against Indians. One account, @IntelPk_, posted on X, "#Breaking: 30 Indian Intelligence Agency RAW Officers in Bangladesh Army Uniform Attempting to Flee, Search for More Continues." This post was subsequently reposted by numerous other fake X accounts. Another account, @sabriaballand, posted on X, "This point cannot be reiterated enough. RAW agents wear Bangladeshi military & police uniforms & commit atrocities in #Bangladesh." Additionally, @swwtyzm posted a picture on X, captioning it, "Is this a verified picture of Indian RAW agents in Bangladesh captured by the Bangladesh army?" Suvrokamal Dutta, an International Conservative Political Expert based in India, described this as malicious propaganda orchestrated by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), supported by its army and media, to fuel anti-India hatred in Bangladesh and turn the country into another jihadist Pakistan. He said, "The whole world knows about the nasty games played by Pakistan's ISI and its army in toppling a legitimate, secular, and democratic government of Sheikh Hasina with active support from the BNP and the Jamaat in Bangladesh. So, this is nothing but another nasty ploy by Pakistan to defame India and raise anti-India sentiments in Bangladesh." D-Intent Data, a fact-checking group, also exposed this fake narrative and posted on X, "FACT: a video of an airport where uniformed men can be seen is being shared with a misleading claim that those are the Indian army at the Bangladesh airport. The fact is those are Bangladesh's Airport Armed Police Battalion (AAP)." It said that the protagonists intend to spread fake news targeting the Indian Army to set a narrative about the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh. Priyajit Debsarkar, an independent geopolitical analyst based in London, said, "The present situation in Bangladesh is highly alarming. And it is not only a threat to neighbouring India but also to the larger Southeast Asia and beyond." He added, "Use of misinformation and disinformation has been effectively deployed internationally to tarnish the image of Indian security agencies as a revenge manoeuvre to get some comfort from what happened fifty-three years ago, on 16 December 1971." Speaking to ANI, Debsarkar said, "The Pakistani deep state might be jubilant in the short term but the pluralistic principles and other like-minded people of Bangladesh, including the civil society, will definitely overcome this challenge and not let the country slide on a slippery slope towards fundamentalists and those who believe against the core principles of Bengali culture and identity." (ANI)
Muslim Students Organisation of India (MSO) chairman Shujaat Ali Quadri expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating situation and political turmoil in Bangladesh following the recent dissolution of the Sheikh Hasina government. Quadri highlighted that the riots in Bangladesh are a severe concern, suggesting that they are being propagated by an external enemy he referred to as a "White Man." Referencing Hasina's interview, Quadri pointed out that these riots were orchestrated by state enemies. He said, "The way that Sheikh Hasina's government was forced and pressured to dissolve makes it clear that this is an act orchestrated by the enemies of Bangladesh. This was previously pointed out by her." "A 'White Man' had reached out to the former PM of Bangladesh, raising several demands, one of which included building a foreign airbase on Bangladesh's soil. But when the PM did not agree, efforts to topple the government were triggered, and a fake protest was built to take down the government," he added. In his interview with ANI, Shujaat Ali Quadri mentioned that the current protests were built around the issue of reservation, a matter closed by the Supreme Court of Bangladesh in 2018. He explained, "A mob was very carefully mobilized to create chaos that would ultimately topple the government." He claimed that the unrest began with a series of social media posts featuring old, edited, and doctored photos and videos, falsely portraying Sheikh Hasina as a "dictator." According to Quadri, several bot accounts on 'X' were created to damage Hasina's image using copy-and-paste propaganda methods. Most of the images and videos shared in these posts were fake, altered, and edited to serve malicious purposes. Expressing his concerns over the violence and attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, Quadri stated, "Violence against any community and minority is condemnable. Until the previous PM held her chair, she protected the Hindu minorities in her country as her government was formed on the principles of non-violence and tolerance towards all communities. However, the same cannot be said about the upcoming government, which may follow a radical and hardcore ideology." He emphasised that the transfer of power to radical forces is a concern not only for India, as a neighbour of Bangladesh but for humanity as a whole. "I seriously condemn it and urge the Indian government to take adequate steps to protect the minorities in Bangladesh. We also urge the upcoming government of Bangladesh to stop all attacks on minorities immediately and take steps to protect these minorities, their properties, and their pilgrimage sites," Quadri 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. 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. On Tuesday, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government, Dhaka Tribune reported. Bangladesh President's Press Secretary, Joynal Abedin, made the announcement. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia has also been released from jail. (ANI)
Colonel Avichay Adraee, the Israel Defence Force's Arabic-language spokesman, tweeted a list of zones to be evacuated, instructing residents to take shelter in Gaza City. The army has assessed that frew than 200,000 Palestinian civilians are currently in northern Gaza.

"Hamas and terrorist organizations are firing rockets from your area towards the State of Israel. The IDF will act forcefully and immediately against them," Adraee tweeted.

Palestinian Islamic Jihad fired three rockets from northern Gaza at Ashkelon and Sderot on Tuesday. One was shot down and the other two landed in open areas. No casualties or damage were caused.

The army on Tuesday temporarily closed a road used for delivering humanitarian aid after five soldiers were injured by Hamas fire. The corridor leads from the Kerem Shalom border crossing northward to Gaza City.

At least 1,200 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamas's attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 115 remaining hostages, 39 have been declared dead. Hamas has also been holding captive two Israeli civilians since 2014 and 2015, and the bodies of two soldiers killed in 2014. (ANI/TPS)
Democrat Kristian Carranza of San Antonio announced her candidacy (Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023) to run for the District 118 seat in the Texas House of Representatives, now occupied by Republican John Lujan of San Antonio. Carranza will face former judge and Harlandale ISD trustee Carlos Quezada in the 2024 primary. Courtesy District 118 Democratic candidate Kristian Carranza, who announced her candidacy Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, will run for the Texas House of Representatives. Carranza, who said her family has few photos of her childhood, provided this 2005 photo of her and her mother Mary Jane Carranza taken at the candidates 2005 quinceanera. Courtesy

Kristian Carranza legally changed her last name from Thompson in January 2023, no longer wishing to have the paternal surname of a father who walked out on her and her mother. She had already used her maternal last name professionally throughout her adult life.

Now, as the Democrat is vying to replace state Rep. John Lujan in one of the most competitive races statewide, the Bexar County GOP is accusing Carranza of adopting a Hispanic surname to pander to voters in the majority-Hispanic South Side district.

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At a news conference Tuesday in San Antonio, party chair Kris Coons made vague allegations and threatened a lawsuit, without providing any details.

Is there really anything to hide here? I dont know. Probably not, but we dont know, Coons said. We believe that (her name) was changed, possibly, you know, to have a beautiful Hispanic last name in a beautiful Hispanic district.

Carranza, 34, dismissed the effort as an unserious and scurrilous political attack that showed the GOPs disregard for women.

When youre a woman of color running for office you face ridiculous questions about your identity and your ethnicity, Carranza said in a phone call. The Bexar County Republican Party is taking a page out of Trumps playbook.

Former President Donald Trump suggested last week before a crowd of Black journalists that Vice President Kamala Harris had misled voters by only recently identifying as Black. Harris has long identified as both Black and South Asian.

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Carranzas race is one of a handful statewide that Democrats have identified as a possible pick-up. Lujan, a former sheriffs deputy and firefighter, is the only Republican to ever hold the seat, according to the state records. Most recently, he won a special election in 2021, then won reelection in 2022 by about 2,000 votes.

This cycle, Carranza has more than quadrupled Lujans $70,000 in fundraising. The district is 64% Hispanic, according to state data.

Lujan suggested Carranzas name change was political and called it not acceptable.

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," he said in a statement provided by a spokesperson.

Campaigns in Texas and other states have used these kinds of tactics in the past. In the 2018 U.S. Senate race, Ted Cruz ran ads attacking Democratic challenger Beto ORourke for using a traditionally Hispanic nickname instead of his given name, Robert. Democratic U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego of Arizona, currently running for the Senate, faced similar accusations to Carranza about a decade ago. He, too, uses his maternal last name because his father was not a part of his life growing up.

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Carranza, a longtime Democratic organizer who grew up in the district said shes always been up front about my last name and my story.

The truth is many women change their last names for many reasons, she said. I did it to honor my mother.

News reports show that she has used the surname Carranza since at least 2019, and she said it extends a decade. A consultant employed by Lujans campaign disputed this, providing a payroll document from Carranzas former employer where the surname Thompson was used. A Bexar County judge issued the legal order officially changing Carranzas last name in January 2023, court records show. She did not announce her campaign until eight months later, in September.

Coons refused to answer questions about what laws they believe Carranza may have broken or what the content of such a lawsuit would be, saying only that lawyers would make those determinations.

She held the news conference at the north side of the Bexar County Courthouse, where the speakers podium was framed by easels with blown-up pictures of the legal filing in which Carranza changed her name and her voter registration form. At one point, one of the easels was blown over by the wind and a GOP aide hustled over to prop it back up.

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Coons said she was merely seeking information about Carranzas name, voting history and address and that Carranza had not been forthcoming about providing it. Carranza said the county GOP never reached out with any questions or complaints.

Jeronimo Cortina, a political science professor at the University of Houston who studies American and Latino politics, said Latino voters choose candidates for a variety of reasons, not just their names.

There is this huge misconception that Latino voters are simply going to vote for the Latino candidate, and that is not true, he said. Latinos, as any other bloc, are going to vote for the candidate whose preferences align better with their preferences.

Christina Bejarano, a professor at Texas Woman's University who has studied Latinas in politics, said identity can play a big role for them and other candidates of color. So it makes sense that Carranzas opponents would try to chip away at that, she said.

Bejarano said the attacks on Carranzas name use is also an example of the harsher treatment women of color tend to receive when they run for office.

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Although the district has long leaned left, Lujan won a low-turnout special election for the seat in 2021, running as a moderate Republican focused on economic growth and supporting local businesses. He has since voted to back Gov. Greg Abbotts private school voucher plan, which is expected to factor heavily in the contest with Carranza.

Democrats margins for blocking a voucher program, which would provide taxpayer funds for private school tuition, are razor thin in the Texas House after Abbott successfully wrested a number of seats from anti-voucher Republicans in primary elections. If Democrats are able to flip even a small number of seats in November, they could deny Abbott the votes to enact his signature policy.

Carranza has pledged to oppose school vouchers, saying they would defund public schools in favor of less accountable pirate schools. Her campaign has also frequently focused on abortion access, accusing the Republican Party of stripping away womens bodily autonomy.

Lujan, too, has faced allegations of a lack of transparency to voters: When he took office in 2022, he assumed his predecessors spot on a legislative committee overseeing the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, and he never disclosed to voters that the technology company he founded had a multimillion dollar state contract with TABC.
Tel Aviv [Israel], August 7 (ANI/TPS): Israeli leaders responded to the news that Hamas terror leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar, who was behind the October 7 massacre, was named the terrorist organizations new commander by the Hamas leadership who live in hiding in Doha, the capital of Qatar. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz 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 organization off the face of the earth." Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Spokesman Daniel Hagari, in interview with the Saudi Arabian publication Al-Arabiya, said, "Yahya Sinwar is a terrorist, who is responsible for the most brutal terrorist attack in history on October 7th. There is only one place for Sinwar, and that is beside Mohammed Deif (a Hamas leader killed recently in an IDF strike in Gaza) and the rest of the October 7th terrorists. That is the only place we're preparing and intending for him." Director of the Digital Diplomacy Bureau, Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs added on Twitter, "This is another proof that there is no difference between the so called 'political branch' and the 'terror branch' of Hamas. The hunt for Sinwar will not stop until we catch him, dead or alive." (ANI/TPS)
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "The 3rd Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between India and Zimbabwe were held in Harare on 6th August 2024."

For the meeting, the Indian side was led by Puneet R Kundal, Additional Secretary (East and Southern Africa), Ministry of External Affairs while the Zimbabwean side was led by Mike Chigiji, Chief Director (Political), Zimbabwe's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

The two sides exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest including cooperation in the United Nations. The discussions provided an opportunity for both sides to take stock of the current status of bilateral relations and explore avenues for further deepening ties between the two nations.

In a statement, MEA said, "Both sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations between the two countries including existing institutional mechanisms such as the Joint Commission and the Joint Trade Committee."

"Sectoral Cooperation in the fields of defence, agriculture, health, mines, minerals and geology, digital Platforms, education, training and capacity building and cultural exchanges were also discussed," it added.

The two sides agreed to hold the next Foreign Office Consultations at a mutually convenient date in New Delhi.

In a post on X, MEA official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "3rd - FOC held in Harare, Zimbabwe today. Co-chaired by Additional Secretary (E&SA) @prkundal & Chief Director Mike Chigiji of @MoFA_ZW."

"Both sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways for strengthening cooperation in development partnership, trade & economic relations, digital technology, agriculture, health, defence, consular and cultural issues among others. Cooperation in multilateral fora including UN also discussed," he added. (ANI)
The Taiwan Ministry of National Defence (MND) has said that 36 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval vessels were detected operating around Taiwan in the last 24 hours until 6 am (local time) on Wednesday. Of the 36 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, 31 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern, and eastern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), according to Taiwan's MND. In response to the Chinese military action, Taiwan sent aircraft, and naval ships and deployed coastal-based missile systems to monitor Chinese PLA activity, it said. In a post on X, Taiwan MND stated, "36 PLA aircraft and 8 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 31 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern, and eastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly." https://x.com/MoNDefense/status/1820988230755663907 So far in August, Taiwan has detected Chinese military aircraft 128 times and naval ships 62 times, Taiwan News reported. Since September 2020, China has intensified its use of gray zone tactics by increasing the number of military aircraft and naval vessels operating around Taiwan. According to Taiwan News report, gray zone tactics are "an effort or series of efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and assurance that attempts to achieve one's security objectives without resort to direct and sizable use of force." This latest incident adds to a series of similar provocations by China in recent months. China has increased its military activities around Taiwan, including regular air and naval incursions into Taiwan's ADIZ and military exercises near the island. Taiwan has been governed independently since 1949. However, China considers Taiwan part of its territory and insists on eventual reunification, by force if necessary. Earlier on Tuesday, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) said that 21 Chinese military aircraft were detected from 6 am (local time) on Monday to 6 am (local time). Of the 21 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, 18 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered the northern, central, southwestern and eastern Taiwan's eastern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). "Overall 21 #PLA aircraft in various types (including J-16, KJ-500, etc.) were detected from 1830hr today. Out of which, 18 crossed the median line of the #Taiwan Strait and entered the northern, central, southwestern and eastern ADIZ," Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence said in a post on X. (ANI)
China's military has launched military drills near a territory in the South China Sea near Philippines. The Southern Theatre Command of China's Peoples Army said on Wednesday that it had carried out air and sea combat patrols near Scarborough Shoal to test "strike capabilities", Al Jazeera reported. The exercises came on the same day that the United States, Australia, Canada and the Philippines conducted military manoeuvres within Manila's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which includes the West Philippine Sea. A joint statement released by Canada's Department of National Defence on August 6 said the combined armed forces of Australia, Canada, the Philippines, and the United States will conduct a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone on August 7 and 8. The naval and air force units of participating nations will operate together enhancing cooperation and interoperability between our armed forces, the statement read. "The activity will be conducted in a manner that is consistent with international law and with due regard to the safety of navigation and the rights and interests of other States," it said."We stand together to address common maritime challenges and underscore our shared dedication to upholding international law and the rules-based order," it added. The four countries reaffirmed the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Award as a final and legally binding decision on the parties to the dispute. The joint statement was signed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr, Australian Chief of Defence Force, Admiral. David Johnston; Canadian Chief of Defence Staff, General Jennie Carignan and US Indo-Pacific Command chief Admiral Samuel Paparo. Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said this is the first Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity of the four countries. "The activity, the first involving all four countries, was conducted in our EEZ and within the bounds of international law. It supports the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling of a free and open Indo-Pacific," Trinidad was quoted as saying by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). The Armed Forces of Philippines in a statement citing Trinidad said, "We can, however, confirm the presence of three PLA Navy vessels, namely PLA-Navy Wuzhou (FSG-626) Jiangdao II class corvette, PLA-Navy Huangshan (FFG-570) Jiankai II class corvette, and PLA-Navy Quijing (FSG-668) Jiangdao II Class Corvette, that tailed the ongoing MMCA." Trinidad also said the MMCA is "not aimed against any particular country" but a collective expression of support for a rules-based international order. The Philippine contingent included the missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) with a AW-159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine helicopter and the offshore patrol vessel, BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16). Australia has deployed a Poseidon Aircraft (P-8A) while Canada sent the HMCS Montreal (FFH-336) and a Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone helicopter. The USS Lake Erie (CG-70) and a Sikorsky MH-60R "Seahawk" helicopter represented the US. (ANI)
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) accused the Pakistani army of suppressing peaceful movements, instead of ending human rights abuses and the Baloch genocide in Balochistan. The BYC spokesperson said that the state army is afraid of the strength and peaceful struggle of the Baloch community. The BYC spokesperson, in a recently released statement, stated that the state army being against the political and human rights movement in itself is an admission that the state army is directly involved in the Baloch genocide and human rights abuses. He said that since the beginning, the state army and intelligence agencies have been directly committing Baloch genocide and are involved in the worst human rights abuses in Balochistan. "Today, when thousands of people have come out on the streets against the Baloch genocide and human rights abuses and are demanding an end to the Baloch genocide, there is a need to stop these atrocities in the region," the spokesperson said. However, instead of ending it, the state army held a press conference against the peaceful political movement, which is an endorsement and confession of our position. While criticising the accusations of anti-state activities levied by the Pakistani army on members of the Baloch Solidarity, the spokesperson asked the state army to set up an inquiry committee to impartially investigate the allegations. "We invite the army to set up an inquiry committee through any neutral third party or human rights organisation to impartially investigate the allegations levelled against the state army's Baloch Solidarity Committee," the spokesperson stated. "If any of the allegations made by you are proven, we will present ourselves in any court in the world, including Pakistan. But if the allegations are not proven, the Pakistani army should confess the Baloch genocide and present itself for punishment," the statement added. He further talked about the Baloch Solidarity Committee's movement against the Baloch Genocide as a purely peaceful people's political movement that has strong popular support, strength and power throughout Balochistan. "We understand that the public power, strength and peaceful struggle of the Baloch Solidarity Committee is not being digested by the state. Therefore, on the one hand, an attempt is being made to end this public struggle by using full force, and on the other hand, an attempt is being made to create a false narrative through a military press conference," the spokesperson stated. The spokesperson said that this proves that Pakistan never tolerates a peaceful political struggle in Balochistan, rather, it has been ruling by force of gun for the past seventy years, in the same way it has maintained its rule by force and violence. "Because through public political struggle, the worst conditions of Balochistan, oppression, gun rule and Baloch genocide will be exposed in front of the whole world," the committee's spokesperson added in his statement. While elaborating on the further action of the BYC, he said that the committee will not be pressured by false claims from the army's press conference, further adding that they will intensify their struggle against the Baloch genocide with the power of the people. "Our struggle is rooted in principle and ideology, relying solely on the Baloch people, unlike your reliance on external funding and proxies, which is known worldwide," he said. (ANI)
India and St Kitts & Nevis signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to share successful digital solutions for population-scale digital transformation. S Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, and Denzil Llewellyn Douglas, Foreign Affairs Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, signed the MoU. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hosted Denzil Douglas of St Kitts and Nevis in Delhi on Tuesday. They discussed expanding partnerships in digital, health, food security and capacity development. The two ministers further exchanged views on convergences as the Global South in the multilateral arena. "Delighted to host FM Denzil Douglas of St. Kitts and Nevis today in Delhi. Discussed expanding our partnership to digital, health, food security and capacity development. And exchanged views on our convergences as Global South in the multilateral arena. Also signed a MoU to further intensify our bilateral political consultations," EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1820847192233664528 Digital India, a flagship programme of the Indian Government, posted on X, stating that the two countries signed the MoU. "Today in @GoI_MeitY, India and St. Kitts & Nevis have signed an MoU to share successful digital solutions for population-scale digital transformation. The MoU was signed by Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, and H.E Dr. Denzil Llewellyn Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs of St. Kitts and Nevis," the Digital India stated. https://x.com/_DigitalIndia/status/1820487705244942589 Moreover, on Wednesday, Union Minister JP Nadda also met the Foreign Minister of St Kitts and Nevis and discussed a wide range of cooperation between India and St. Kitts and Nevis in the health sector. JP Nadda further said that they are committed to collaborating further in areas including medical education and non-communicable diseases. "Met with the Foreign Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, H.E. Dr. Denzil Douglas, in New Delhi today. Our discussion spanned a wide range of cooperation between India and St. Kitts and Nevis in the health sector. We are committed to collaborating further in specific areas such as medical education, non-communicable diseases, pharmaceutical sector, and medical value travel. I am confident that this productive meeting will further strengthen our strategic and bilateral relationships," he posted on X. https://x.com/JPNadda/status/1820807466227290511 St. Kitts and Nevis and India have maintained friendly and cordial relations. Moreover, India has been assisting St. Kitts and Nevis in capacity building under the ITEC programme under which 15 slots are offered on annual basis. (ANI)
Mahrang Baloch, a prominent Baloch leader protesting against the atrocities committed by the state, criticised the Pakistani security forces, for accusing the Baloch Yakjheti Committee (BYC) of being "proxies for terrorist organisations." This comes after the Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Pakistan, alleged that the Baloch Yakjheti Committee (BYC) is a proxy of terrorist organisations. Mahrang Baloch claimed that these groups aim to discredit law enforcement and undermine provincial development by inciting violence and unrest in the region. She said that the BYC is being deliberately marginalised, forcing youth to resort to alternative, potentially violent means of activism when peaceful activism is not permitted. "If the youth are accused of being proxies for foreign hostile agencies, intimidated, arrested, or forced into hiding, what alternatives do they have to make their voices heard?" Mahrang Baloch said, after the press conference held by the DG ISPR on Monday. She further questioned, "As the spokesperson of a powerful institution under which all secret and financial institutions operate, evidence has not been produced by them to back up the claims. If any hostile agencies or terror groups are represented by the BYC, where is the evidence?" Mahrang Baloch challenged the DG ISPR to produce the evidence to back his claims and take matter to court to prove that BYC is working on behalf of terrorist outfits or hostile agencies. She also mentioned that since the Baloch Raji Machi, or Baloch National Gathering, on July 28, countless accusations have been levelled against BYC, including from Balochistan's Chief Minister and cabinet members. Responding to questions on why Gwadar was chosen as the venue for the national gathering instead of another city, Mahrang said Gwadar was chosen because of the promises made to its residents in 2007, when Gwadar port was handed over to Singapore for the first time, which, however, remained unfulfilled. She stated that when Gwadar was handed over to China in 2012 and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was launched in 2015, it was said that Gwadar would be transformed into a city like Dubai or Shanghai, but the Gwadar residents still lack basic necessities. "Despite the launch of CPEC almost a decade ago, Gwadar still does not have a standard hospital. Its residents go to Karachi for medical assistance for minor illnesses. Gwadar still relies on Iran for electricity. In 10 years, CPEC has not improved anything in Gwadar but has worsened it. Now, in the name of security, people are stopped from going to sea to fish and are humiliated and insulted every kilometre in the name of security," Mahrang Baloch said, adding, "In 10 years, CPEC has only given us security checkpoints, nothing else." She further said the government machinery is in full swing to discredit the BYC and launch a crackdown on it. Mahrang Baloch noted that since July 27, the entire Gwadar town has been disconnected from the rest of the country, and the internet has been shut down. Yet, the government claims the BYC has created chaos. Earlier 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)
Dennis Francis, the President of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, expressed his grief over the loss of lives and devastation caused by natural disasters in India and other countries across the world. Highlighting the rise in natural disasters, the UNGA President said it shows the need to urgently act on climate commitments. "Alarmed and saddened by the lives lost and devastation caused by recent floods in India, China, DPRK, and Pakistan. The increasing frequency and severity of such natural disasters across the world require that we act urgently on our climate commitments to halt this crisis. My thoughts are with all those affected," the UNGA President said in a post on X. https://x.com/UN_PGA/status/1820805157481046506 The Chooralmala and Mundakkai in Kerala's Wayanad were hit by massive landslides on July 30 claiming over 300 lives and creating widespread property damage. 226 bodies and 181 body parts have been recovered so far and 180 people are still missing, according to officials. Earlier in October 2023, Pakistan was hit by massive floods that killed over 1700 people and caused economic damage worth USD 15.2 billion. Meanwhile, flooding and landslides triggered by the incessant monsoon have also ravaged large parts of North Korea in recent weeks, destroying thousands of homes and displacing several people. China, too, has been suffering from multiple landslides for some time. Incidents like landslides and floods have killed over 150 people around China in the past two months. Chinese authorities also said that the country has experienced the highest number of significant floods in a long time. Last month, the UNGA President lavished praise on India for its work in this direction, which has lifted 800 million people out of poverty in the last 5-6 years. He highlighted how people in rural areas of India, are able to make payments and pay bills just on the touch of a smartphone. Francis emphasised the high internet penetration in India as a major factor why India has been able to benefit but not many other countries of the Global South. (ANI)
The United States and Australia held ministerial consultations on Tuesday to strengthen the alliance and cooperation between the two countries in the Indo-Pacific region and globally. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin hosted Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Richard Marles in Annapolis, Maryland. "The Secretaries and Ministers (principals) reaffirmed that the US-Australia Alliance is essential to promoting a prosperous and peaceful region. They expressed the importance of the history and values shared by the United States and Australia and renewed their commitment to support a stable and open international system that protects each nation's ability to make sovereign decisions free from coercion or threats of force," the joint statement read. https://x.com/SecDef/status/1820923170435530903 The leaders welcomed actions by both governments that build upon the commitments made during the visit of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to the US and his meeting with President Joe Biden in October 2023 across the full breadth of the bilateral relationship, to build an "Innovation Alliance." The major actions announced during the meeting between Biden and Albanese include Australia's endorsement of the US' Framework to Counter Foreign State Information Manipulation through a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). They also agreed to establish the Australia-US Landsat Next Partnership between Geoscience Australia and the US Geological Survey, enhancing cooperation on satellite imaging data collection and analysis capability to assist our nations, and the Indo-Pacific, with resources management, urban planning, climate change and disaster relief. Australia's continued progression in joining the US Global Entry Program, streamlining entry to the United States and strengthening our robust people-to-people links. They also announced a new four-year phase of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) - Australia Mekong Safeguards Program to support strengthened environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards for infrastructure development in the Mekong subregion. US and Australia committed to conclude a space framework agreement to facilitate cooperation on civil space activities, including further cooperation on the US National Air and Space Agency's (NASA) Artemis program. An inaugural Ministerial First Nations Dialogue, focused on advancing economic development, Indigenous rights and environmental stewardship with First Nations peoples in Australia and federally recognised tribes in the US, which builds on the US hosting of an Australian First Nations business leaders' delegation that enables knowledge-sharing on business development, the statement added. The two nations signed an MoU by representatives of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and US Department of State (State) Diplomatic Security to establish exchanges in the areas of technical security, cyber security, and threat analysis. They also agreed to co-host the Pacific Banking Forum, where the US and Australia committed to supporting the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat's Correspondent Banking Relationship Roadmap and other efforts to address de-risking in the Pacific. US support for cultural preservation efforts in the Pacific comes through the Australian Museum's Pasifika Tauhi project. The nations agreed for continued progress by the Australia-US Critical Minerals Taskforce (CMTF) to pursue secure and diverse critical mineral supply chains, increase investment in mining and processing projects in our respective countries, and enhance market transparency. (ANI)
The East Turkistan Government in Exile (ETGE) urged the Uyghur community living abroad to refrain from travelling to Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR), claiming that it would aid the Chinese oppression and forceful invasion in the region and would weaken the efforts of the international community and help spread Chinese propaganda. The East Turkistan Government in Exile, further claimed that such actions "legitimise China's crimes, weaken international support, and bolster China's false propaganda." "East Turkistanis who travel to and from Occupied East Turkistan amidst the ongoing Uyghur Genocide aid the Chinese invaders and oppressors and undermine our independence efforts. Such actions legitimise China's crimes, weaken international support, and bolster China's false propaganda," the statement on X read. https://x.com/ETExileGov/status/1820984098724188185 "We urge you to cancel travel plans, refuse cooperation, report those who have travelled back and forth and report any coercion. Your actions impact our national security and the fight against the ongoing genocide," it added. Referring to the East Turkistani community, the statement stated, "Your actions are causing significant harm to our entire nation and our struggle to restore our national independence. While our people in East Turkistan suffer from extensive genocide by the Chinese invaders, with millions enduring unimaginable hardships in prisons and concentration camps, how can you align yourselves with these aggressors? Is this not an act of betrayal?" They asserted that the rise in the number of travellers to East Turkistan will pose a sense of normalcy instead of highlighting the ongoing genocide of the Chinese mainland in the XUAR region. The statement further pointed out that the Chinese government only issues a visa to East Turkistan if the traveller accepts to act as a spy for the mainland. "Remember, the Chinese government issues visas solely on the condition that you act as spies. There is no other way to travel to our homeland. By agreeing to this, you are betraying your compatriots. Each of your visits plays into the hands of the Chinese invaders, legitimising their crimes against our people and nullifying the efforts of East Turkistanis in exile who have long fought to restore our independence. You are contributing to the false Chinese propaganda claiming "everything is normal in Xinjiang," the statement read. "Consider this during each visit, how many Uyghur and other Turkic women are forcibly sterilized? How many of our women and girls are violated? How many of our youth are sent to China for slave labor? How many of our children are separated from their parents and placed in "boarding schools" designed for brainwashing and assimilation?" the statement added. The East Turkistan Government in Exile claimed that each visit of the travellers provides an opportunity for China to justify its ethnic cleansing crimes, weakens international sympathy for the people of East Turkistan and diminishes support for their "independence struggle." "This allows the aggressors even more freedom to commit genocide," they added. (ANI)
Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner speaks during a Celebration of Life Service for Sheila Jackson Lee at Fallbrook Church on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer

The late U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lees family endorsed former Mayor Sylvester Turner in the race to replace the congresswoman on the November ballot.

A week ahead of the nomination meeting where Jackson Lees replacement will be selected, Jackson Lees children, Jason Lee and Erica Lee Carter, announced they are supporting Turner, a longtime friend and ally of their mother, in his bid to succeed her.

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We have no doubt Mayor Turner will carry on our mothers legacy of service because weve witnessed it almost our entire lives, Lee and Lee Carter wrote in a Monday statement. 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, a native of Acres Homes, served as a member of the Texas House of Representatives from 1989 until he was elected Houston mayor in 2015. He left City Hall at the end of last year after two terms as Houstons top official.

Jackson Lee died from pancreatic cancer last month after representing the 18th Congressional District for three decades. Since her passing, a number of candidates have confirmed their intentions to run. Besides Turner, former council member Amanda Edwards, council member Letitia Plummer and state Rep. Jarvis Johnson, among others, have also entered the race.

Turner recently said the passing of his friend and the unique circumstances of this race were the only factors that could pull him out of retirement, adding district constituents needed stability and continuity in leadership at this critical juncture.

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Jackson Lee secured a decisive primary victory in March against challenger Edwards. With no time to hold a new primary ahead of the November general election, the Harris County Democratic Party has tasked its 88 precinct chairs who live in the district to meet on August 13 to select a new nominee. Candidates are set to make their pitches to party leaders during a flurry of events in the coming days.
The United Kingdom chapter of the Baloch National Movement (BNM) organised a rally in Trafalgar Square in London, condemning the atrocities committed by Pakistani security forces on peaceful protesters during the Baloch National Gathering in Gwadar, Mastung and Nushki. Hundreds of participants joined the protest, including the local diaspora of Baloch and Sindh communities' provinces living abroad. The protest focused on condemning the atrocities committed by Pakistani security forces during the Baloch Raji Muchi, as the crackdown resulted in the deaths of three protesters, numerous injuries, and widespread suffering. The protest aimed to highlight the incidents of enforced disappearances of BYC workers and the ongoing road blockades built by Pakistani security forces to stop protestors from resisting their atrocities. During the demonstration, participants demanded an end to the Gwadar siege and justice for victims of state-backed terrorism. The protesters also called on the international community to take action against the ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan. Addressing the protesters, the rally organisers condemned the Pakistani security forces' intolerable atrocities against peaceful and innocent people in Gwadar, Mastung, and Nushki. They also urged that the Pakistani army's control over Gwadar be lifted immediately to prevent a potential humanitarian crisis. They further requested the human rights authorities to take notice of the humanitarian atrocities in Balochistan and hold Pakistan accountable, calling the blocking of the internet and roads the illusion of the state and said that the state cannot hide its atrocities with such measures. Additionally, Manzoor Baloch, president of the BNM UK chapter, addressed the demonstration by lauding the leadership and resilience of Baloch women in their fight for national rights. He highlighted the significance of Baloch mothers and sisters, courageously standing up for Balochistan, working in unison and following the example set by their brothers. Female activist Gul Raisani addressed the protestors, asserting that their assembly was a demonstration of solidarity with the victims of Baloch Raaji Muchi and those affected by state violence. She further emphasised that the Baloch nation will steadfastly resist both the national struggle and exploitative projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Raisani also criticised the Gwadar blockade as a deliberate attempt by the state to obstruct the delivery of essential supplies, underscoring that such measures cannot suppress the voices of the people. (ANI)
America's leading PC maker, HP is looking to revoke more than half of computer production away from China, and is also planning to set up a "backup" design hub in Singapore in an attempt to reduce geopolitical risks around China and Taiwan, Nikkei Asia reported. These plans are the most aggressive move made by the PC maker, involving the revocation of its supply chains away from Asia's biggest economy. The company, which currently makes its PCs in China, is conducting discussions with suppliers about the matter. The Nikkei Asia reported, citing sources, that HP has set its sights on achieving its target in two to three years. One such source said the company has set internal targets of making 70 per cent of its notebooks outside China. A probable destination for the shift in production is Thailand. Notably, five suppliers of the tech company are already building new manufacturing units and warehouses in Thailand. Additionally, two of such suppliers have been increasing their capacity there since the beginning of the year at HP's request. "It is certain that HP is betting big on building a production hub in Thailand. We have other Southeast Asian facilities to support the client, but they said it is not efficient enough, so we're building a new factory in Thailand now, as requested." one of the executives in HP's supply chains said. An executive working for another supplier of HP welcomed the move, stating, "We were worried about not having enough orders to fully use our Thailand facility, but since earlier this year, we've been receiving more requests from HP to build components locally. Our business in Thailand is quite busy now." In 2023, HP shipped around 52 million PCs. Its accelerating supply chain shift away from China marks a change from its decades-long stance as a supporter of China-based manufacturing. The company and its suppliers used to build an extensive network in China, eventually turning Chongqing, a city on the mainland, into the world's leading source of PC exports, according to Nikki Asia. But years of tensions between the US and China and disruptions that arose during COVID have driven many American companies to move away from China. Previously, tech giants like Dell, Apple, Microsoft and others also made production shifts of a portion of their PC production to other Southeast Asian nations and allocated more marketing resources to exploring their local sales. A veteran tech analyst said that assembling or producing AI-capable PCs in China could potentially be a supply chain continuity risk if Washington decides to further tighten export controls for high-powered chips. Intel, for example, is already barred from shipping its Core Ultra 9 chip for AI PCs to Huawei, the analyst claimed. (ANI)
The oath-taking ceremony of the interim government in Bangladesh will take place on Thursday evening, Bangladesh Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman said. He also said that the interim government might initially consist of around 15 members. "We are making every effort to hold the oath-taking ceremony tomorrow (Thursday). There was a proposal to hold it in the afternoon. However, that would result in a very tight schedule because Dr Yunus is expected to arrive in the country around 2:10 pm. It would be difficult to arrange the ceremony after that. Therefore, we may hold it around 8 pm. The arrangement will accommodate a total of 400 people," Zaman said at a press briefing at the Army Headquarters on Wednesday Being asked about the size of the interim government, he said: "I believe it might initially consist of around 15 members. However, one or two more individuals may be 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. Meanwhile, Nobel laureate, Muhammad Yunus, describing violence as an "enemy," called on people to protect and make Bangladesh a wonderful country for them and for their future generations, Dhaka Tribune reported. "Our youth is ready to give this leadership in creating a new world. Let us not miss the chance by going into any senseless violence. Violence is our enemy. Please don't create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country," he said in a statement on Wednesday. His statement came a day after Yunus was chosen to lead an interim government following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid a mass upsurge led by students. Yunus congratulated the students who protested to achieve the "Second Victory Day" and to the people for giving their total support to them. "Let us make the best use of our new victory. Let us not let this slip away because of our mistakes," he said. "Please refrain from all kinds of violence." Yunus is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka from Paris on Thursday, as reported by Dhaka Tribune. Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday night decided to form an interim government headed by the globally acclaimed Nobel Peace laureate. The Bangladesh Parliament was dissolved by President Shahabuddin on Tuesday. Earlier on Tuesday, Bangladesh Nationalist President President and former PM, Khaleda Zia was released after the President commuted her jail sentence in line with Article 49 of the Constitution. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders said that Zia has been concerned about the nationwide violence, vandalism, and looting of state resources amid the anti-discrimination student protest, Dhaka Tribune reported. During a meeting with Maulana Mamunul Haque, secretary general of Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis, at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, she said, "Our state's resources are being wasted. This country is ours; we have to build this country." (ANI)
INS Tabar had earlier visited Hamburg, Germany from July 17 - 20.

These engagements are aimed at strengthening the maritime relations between both nations.

"The conduct of MPX between Indian Navy and German Navy off Kiel Canal signifies Indian Navy's outreach and sustenance efforts also marking a significant milestone in the maritime cooperation between the two countries," the release stated.

The MPX with the Sea Lynx of 3rd Squadron Naval Air Wing 5 (MFG5) of the German Navy involved a series of advanced maritime operations such as Ship Controlled Approaches, Winching exercises and VERTREP serials.

Units from both the navies demonstrated high levels of professionalism and commitment to enhance collaborative efforts.

"IndianNavy's frontline Frigate #INSTabar during her return leg from St Petersburg, Russia conducted #MaritimePartnershipExercise with Sea Lynx of 3rd Squadron Naval Air Wing 5 (MFG5) of the #GermanNavy off Kiel Canal in the North Sea," the Indian Navy said in a post on X.

https://x.com/indiannavy/status/1821149127054438835

"Operational Exercises involved, series of advanced #maritime ops, Ship Controlled Approaches, Winching exercises & VERTREP, with an aim to imbibe Best Practices & commitment to enhance collaborative efforts," it said in a subsequent post.

https://x.com/indiannavy/status/1821149146398814391

Notably, India and Germany share a relationship built on a foundation of shared values, democratic principles and a commitment to global peace and security.

"The Indian Navy remains committed to fostering partnerships with navies across the world. The MPX with the German navy reinforces the strong bilateral naval ties and our ability to work together in maritime security operations," the release added. (ANI)
Forced to leave their country, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her associates had to rush to save themselves and most of the members who arrived in India with her did not even get time to carry along essentials with them on way to India. Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana and other associates arrived in India on Monday in a C-130 J transport aircraft from Dhaka. All the team members in her entourage came to India in a hurry as many of them could not even carry clothing or any other daily use items with them, sources told ANI. The Indian protocol officials deployed with the entourage helped the members of Hasina's team to buy clothes and other items, they said. The team members were in a state of shock due to the experience and scenes witnessed by them back home in the last few days, the sources said. The number of associates of the two sisters from the most reputed political family of Bangladesh are in double digits and they arrived in India along with her, the sources said. Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval was constantly in touch with the officials and met Hasina as soon as she landed in Delhi. The team was provided immediate help and taken to safe houses in Delhi, they said. 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. (ANI)
Local businessmen in Pakistan slammed the Pakistan government for high electricity tariffs and gas bills, adding that the government needs to urgently tackle the issue. Pakistani people, who were already suffering from economic problems, are now stuck with another major issue related to tariffs on electricity and gas. Reportedly, last month the Shehbaz Sharif-led government increased the base tariff of electricity for domestic consumers by PKR 48.84. This has triggered major protests in Karachi against the Pakistani government. A similar protest has been continuing since July 27 in Rawalpindi highlighting the issue of electricity prices. A local businessman from Karachi, Shaikh Habib expressed his frustration and anger against rising electricity and gas bills. He said "We call Karachi, mini Pakistan where people from each part of Pakistan come for livelihood, this city generates around 70 per cent of revenue for the central government and 90 to 95 per cent for the Sindh government. Despite all this, it is our misfortune that 25 crore people of Pakistan are badly affected by these bills." Habib said that there was a time when Independent Power Producers (IPP) entered the market, and now crores of rupees are being invested in closed projects. "The government has started accusing foreign players of this price rise. The government forgets that those foreign players have long exited the market, and now they are the only ones who are running the system," he said, adding that they are the ones who are solely responsible. "So they are the only ones who are responsible for the high-priced electricity," he added. Habib further said that the government need to urgently tackle this issue, otherwise, people will start coming to the streets. "A person who is earning around 35 to 40 thousand in Pakistan currently, can't afford to pay these bills at any cost. The Pakistan government should be ashamed that they still didn't understand that 12 crore people of our countrymen are living below the poverty line. Amongst them are around eight crore people who are just having one meal a day. If they bring these rules, then slowly crimes and violence will start increasing. The government need to urgently tackle this issue, otherwise imagine if people start coming to the streets, imagine what happens in this situation," he said. The trader further recommended that the electricity department could refund the overbilled consumer but changing the entire government is not the solution to rectify their mistakes of increasing the prices on bills. "Political representatives should stop playing their red carpet-game," he said. (ANI)
Denouncing the spread of religious fundamentalism across the world, Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, member secretary of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), said on Wednesday that it has become a challenge to talk about compassion, kindness, peace, truth and harmony when there was painful destruction all around. Speaking at the second International Conference for Young Buddhist Scholars on Buddha Dhamma and its application in education, scientific research, healthcare, and well-being in New Delhi, Dr Joshi, the chief guest questioned the direction the world was moving towards and said that any kind of belief or religious fundamentalism does not have a place in society. "We need to save the world with Dhamma, we are blessed to be in these times to shoulder this responsibility," he said taking up the challenge. The conference was organised by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), with support from the Ministry of Culture, and the Ambedkar International Centre, under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, according to a release. There were 15 papers presented by young academicians and researchers from seven countries, including India. It was also attended by members of the diplomatic community from Thailand, Bhutan, Cambodia and the Republic of Korea. The 8th Chokyong Palga Rinpoche from Ladakh, who was also the Guest of Honour said that the Buddha Dhamma that had survived for 2,500 years needed to evolve with the challenging times now, in order to remain relevant. Though it had spread from India, the Dhamma adapted to the local culture of the nations. He advised the young scholars to spread the message of the Buddha and the Great Masters of peace, harmony and love in these troubled times. In his welcome address, the Secretary General of IBC, Shartse Khensur Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden, suggested that just like in many countries around the world, our universities too should start separate departments to study the linkages between Buddha Dhamma and science. The academic papers were on Buddha Dhamma and mental well-being, the application of Dhamma education in school, Jataka Tales and their relevance, and the transformation of Cambodian society after years of destruction by the Khmer Rouge, among others. Supadcha Srisook, a PhD research scholar from Thailand explained how in Thailand, there was a project from the Ministry of Education about the relationship between the house, temple, and school. They see the importance of the connection between parents (house), religion (temple), and teachers (school), as well as how to cultivate students to have a good quality of life, both physically and mentally, for society. In the process of this project, every school and high school (specific government schools have to study the history of Buddha and Buddha Dhamma), at least once per week undertake Buddhist activities and attend temple-collaborated Buddhist camps. Students who participated in the Buddhist camp engaged in various activities, including prayer, and learning the Buddha's Dhamma and meditation, besides practising patience and getting involved in personal duties and responsibilities. Ven Morm Savonn, PhD Research Scholar at Delhi University from Cambodia in his Paper mentioned that monks are highly valued members of the public, the release stated. He highlighted how Buddhism has contributed significantly to Cambodia's societal well-being and is a component of the social order's development. The people and society of Cambodia place a high value on social well-being. He expressed regret that the Khmer Rouge "ruined Cambodian society." Millions of people lost their lives in this civil war in Cambodia. Monks were murdered and made to lay down their lives, and other monasteries were destroyed. Buddhism was revived after the Khmer Rouge regime, and religion gradually started to grow again. According to the release, the primary objective of the conference was to create a vibrant platform for young researchers to share their insights, engage in scholarly pursuits, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. By facilitating interdisciplinary discussions, fostering collaboration, and promoting the exchange of knowledge, the conference aimed to contribute significantly to the advancement of scholarship in the field of Buddhist Studies and its integration, and impact on education, scientific research, healthcare, and well-being. "This integration offers a transformative potential for individuals and society. By fostering mindfulness, ethical conduct, compassion, and holistic health, these teachings can address contemporary challenges and enhance the quality of life. Implementing these principles requires a collaborative effort, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to cultural sensitivity and sustainability. Through such efforts, the timeless wisdom of Buddha Dhamma can contribute significantly to the development of a more compassionate, healthy, and harmonious world," it added. (ANI)
The Bharat-Tibet Sahayog Manch's (BTSM) national council, in a meeting, addressed critical issues in Tibet and condemned China's aggressive policies and expansionist ambitions against them. The BTSM convened a significant meeting recently at Sonipat, Haryana. The event brought together 267 members from 24 states and saw the adoption of five crucial resolutions addressing Tibet and Sino-Indian relations, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) reported. The meeting was convened by the presence of several distinguished guests, including Kalon Dolma Gyari from the Department of Security, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), who attended as the chief guest. Kalon Dolma Gyari from the Central Tibetan Administration delivered a poignant address condemning China's aggressive policies and expansionist ambitions. She emphasised the urgency of global recognition and collective action against China's harmful intentions. As reported by the Central Tibetan Administration, she highlighted the necessity of standing firm against these aggressive policies. BTSM also condemned China's efforts to impose its method for selecting the next Dalai Lama, rejecting the traditional spiritual process. The organisation appealed to India and the world to respect the current Dalai Lama's selection statement and preserve Tibetan spiritual integrity. Both Indresh Kumar Ji and Kalon Dolma Gyari from the Central Tibetan Administration stressed the critical nature of this issue and stated that preserving the spiritual traditions of Tibet is paramount, the Central Tibetan Administration reported. The meeting featured the slogan, "China's border is the Chinese wall, the rest is occupation," advocating for the rejection of Chinese products and dialogue with the exiled Tibetan government. Insights from the Central Tibetan Administration highlighted the injustices faced by Tibetans under Chinese rule, urging a united international response. In a gesture of solidarity, BTSM paid tribute to individuals affected by recent natural calamities and condemned violence caused by human conflicts, praying for the recovery of the injured and displaced. The Deputy Coordinator of the India Tibet Coordination Office (ITCO), Tashi Dekyi, and her team also played a significant role by distributing Tibet-related books and brochures and covering the two-day sessions. A major highlight was the keynote address by Pankaj Goyal and Indresh Kumar, which declared 2025 Karuna Varsh (Year of Compassion) to celebrate the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The year-long celebrations will promote peace, non-violence, brotherhood, and love. BTSM committed to forming a committee to organise these celebrations across India and the world. Indresh Kumar condemned China's actions aimed at eradicating Tibetan identity, referencing the recent closure of the Ragya Gangjong Sherig Norbuling School in Golog. He stated, "What kind of humanity is it that China is eradicating Tibetan identity from Tibet, except for a few thousand of them in the rest of the world." Further, the BTSM condemned China's systematic campaign of sinicisation and called for global recognition and action against these policies. The 2024 BTSM National Council meeting was a landmark event addressing key issues related to Tibet and Sino-Indian relations. The resolutions reflect BTSM's commitment to supporting Tibetan autonomy, preserving cultural identity, and countering Chinese expansionist policies, underscoring India's dedication to promoting global harmony. (ANI)
The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) hosted an exclusive interaction on the Union Budget 2024-2025 in the national capital with Finance Secretary, TV Somanathan and Chief Economic Advisor, V Anantha Nageswaran on Wednesday. The discussion provided USISPF members and leading corporations in the US-India corridor with in-depth perspectives on the Union Budget and India's economic trajectory and fiscal policies, according to an official release. The Finance Secretary and Chief Economic Advisor delved into key budget highlights of the budget. This included significant allocations for infrastructure development, measures to boost digital innovation, initiatives to strengthen financial inclusion and ease-of-doing measures for foreign investors. This high-level discussion offered valuable insights into the government's vision for India's economic growth and development. It was attended by leading corporations and officials from the US Embassy in India. The Finance Bill 2024 was passed by Lok Sabha on Wednesday evening with a few amendments moved by the government. This is the first full budget of the NDA government led by PM Modi. The BJP-led alliance won a third successive term earlier this year. The Lok Sabha took up discussion on the Finance Bill after the Appropriation Bill for the central government's expenditure for 2024-25 was passed by the House on Monday. Replying to the debate, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharman said the approach of the government has been to bring greater simplification of tax laws and procedures and enable growth and employment in the country. She responded to points made by members. To give relief on budget proposals, Sitharaman also moved an amendment in the Finance Bill on the changes in the capital gains tax on property transactions. The amendment implies that taxpayers can avail either a lower tax of 12.5 per cent without indexation or a rate of 20 per cent with indexation, if the property is acquired prior to July 23, 2024, the day union budget was presented in the Lok Sabha. Sitharaman said the New Income Tax Regime is simpler and offers lower income tax rates for individuals. For the previous Assessment Year 2023-24 till December 31, 2023, about 3.8 per cent of taxpayers opted for the New Tax Regime, which equates to 30.93 lakh individuals from a total of 7.98 crore ITRs filed in the categories of ITR-1 to ITR-4, she said. The Finance Bill will now be discussed by Rajya Sabha. The passage of bill will complete the budget process. (ANI)
The Nepal government has formed a three-membered committee to investigate the second aviation accident after a helicopter crashed into the hills of Nepal on Wednesday killing all 5 on board. An emergency cabinet meeting held earlier in the afternoon soon after the crash of the Air Dynasty helicopter formed the committee to be led by Senior Nepal Army Pilot Subhash Thapa. "A three-membered committee has been formed to investigate the reason for the crash. The committee has 30 days to submit the report," Prithivi Subba Gurung, the government spokesperson confirmed ANI. The other members of the commission are aeronautical engineer Bishnu Basnet and Tanuja Pokharel. The crash on Wednesday, which came less than a fortnight after the Saurya Airlines crash claimed the lives of 18 people on board on July 24 within the premises of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The Air Dynasty helicopter which was carrying four Chinese nationals flew by a Nepali Pilot came down the slopes of a treacherous mountain which during the monsoon is clouded by thick mist. "I was working in the kitchen, and at that time I heard the sound of a helicopter passing by twice- once it was going and coming back. Helicopters usually land at a point at the top of the hill and I thought it was the same but two of my neighbors came running saying a helicopter had crashed. I then ran to the site by jumping up from the roof of my house as the exit of my house would make me late to reach the site," Harilal Pantha, one of the first responders and witnesses of the incident told ANI. "When I reached here, the helicopter was engulfed in fire and we could see four dead bodies, two in the upper slope and two below it. We threw some soil on those bodies, though they were lifeless, all we tried was to prevent it from burning further. It was all we could do," he added. Security personnel had to scour through the wreckage of the chopper which had come down on the slopes of the forest without proper safety and protective equipment. As per the witnesses, the helicopter was engulfed in fire when they reached to the actual crash site which is covered by dense trees and bushes with thrones and spikes. "The helicopter took a turn from Surya Chaur and then my wife called me panicking saying it had crashed, then I came running here along with my neighbour," Santa Bahadur, a local resident of Suryachaur told ANI. "It was in flame when I reached here. We couldn't go near as it was raging high and the head was intense. The bodies were scattered all over the places, beyond recognition," Santa Bahadur added. The chopper came down in the Shivapuri National Park area which lies within 20 nautical miles from the Tribhuvan International Airport, the take-off spot. As per the release from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the chopper lost contact with the control tower within 3 minutes of take-off. The 9N-AJD chopper of Air Dynasty took off from Kathmandu at 1:54 pm for Syaprubesi, Rasuwa which has a flight distance of 15 to 20 minutes on a helicopter. (ANI)
Feature: Chinese-built road transforming lives of mothers in rural central Kenya

Xinhua) 09:41, August 07, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Kim Ogg greets Senator Ted Cruz as he took the stage during a law enforcement and public safety rally with law enforcement leaders at King's Bierhaus on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Kim Ogg speaks as Senator Ted Cruz hosted a law enforcement and public safety rally with law enforcement leaders at King's Bierhaus on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg is shown after a news conference at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center, 1201 Franklin St., Tuesday, July 23, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Democratic Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg is crossing the aisle and endorsing U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz in his reelection bid against U.S. Rep. Colin Allred.

The announcement Tuesday evening at a campaign event in Houston comes as Ogg has increasingly been at odds with her party. The Harris County Democratic Party voted to admonish Ogg late last year and she was defeated in the March primary election.

Ogg said she was driven by Cruzs strict stances on illegal immigration, which she tied to local crime.

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We are seeing a problem at our border, and I am taking this opportunity to endorse Senator Ted Cruz, Ogg said, describing a series of alleged crimes committed by those in the country illegally in Houston. She pointed to the killing of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray earlier this summer, which prosecutors have accused two Venezuelan nationals of carrying out.

Ogg recently penned an op-ed with Cruz in the Houston Chronicle supporting his new legislation to keep migrants in detention if beds are available. She told the crowd on Tuesday that Jocelyn would still be alive if Cruzs bill was in place.

Hear this Houston: public safety is more important than political parties, Ogg said. Period.

Studies show that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than U.S. citizens. Immigrants without legal authorization in Texas were 26% less likely than a native-born United States citizen to face a homicide conviction, with immigrants in the country legally 61% less likely.

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READ MORE: Harris County DA Kim Ogg concedes to Sean Teare in heated Democratic primary race

The endorsement comes as Cruz has sought to tout bipartisan accomplishments and appeal to voters on the other side of the aisle  even going so far as to launch a Democrats for Cruz group  despite a longstanding reputation as a partisan fighter.

Since my election to the Senate, my priority has been to deliver results for Texans and to fight against bad policies that encroach on our Texan way of life, which is why I will continue working hand in hand with Republicans and Democrats across the state to ensure that we Keep Texas, Texas, in November, Cruz said in a statement.

At the rally, he called Oggs support a big damn deal, and said Democrats arent doing enough to put murderers, rapists and child molesters behind bars.

The Texas Democratic Party has responded to the attack by pointing to a series of votes by Cruz that it says shows he is not serious about helping law enforcement. Those included his vote against a bipartisan gun bill in 2022 that offered millions in grants for police.

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Ted Cruz stands against bipartisan efforts to support law enforcement because he only cares about his petty politics and self-serving grandstanding  not supporting the men and women who are working to keep Texans safe, Texas Democratic Party spokesperson Ryan Radulovacki said. Standing with our police and border patrol means working with both parties, and thats something Ted Cruz refuses to do.

Cruz was repeatedly interrupted during his speech on Tuesday by two pro-Palestinian protesters. Each time, the crowd cheered over them, and eventually some crowd members grabbed and pushed one of the protestors out of the building. Cruz took both interruptions as an opportunity to voice his support for Israel in its invasion of Gaza.
Faheem Baloch, a prominent activist from the UK chapter of the Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Wednesday, highlighted the atrocities inflicted by the Pakistani defence forces in Balochistan on the sidelines of the Baloch Raaji Muchi. The BNM activist was present at a protest organized by the UK chapter of BNM in London. The protest was organized to condemn the atrocities inflicted by the Pakistani defence forces on the Baloch community. Faheem while highlighting the severe human rights situation in Balochistan, said that since the invasion of Balochistan, a gross human rights violation has been going on. "Baloch Yakjehti Committee, a political movement, gave a call for the Baloch National Gathering in Gwadar on July 28 and thousands of people around Balochistan started moving towards Gawadar city and Pakistani state establishments tried their best to stop them and in different areas. They opened fire on them and killed many people but still the people of Balochistan, they resisted without their fear of their firing, without the fear of killings," Faheem said. "Many people still reached Gwadar and when they reached Gwadar, there was a siege, there was no internet facility, there was no water supply, the telephone connections, everything had been jammed and as per the reports. Many people have been abducted and people have been killed or injured when an open fire was orchestrated on the peaceful protesters", Faheem added. The protest was focused on condemning the atrocities committed by Pakistan Security forces on peaceful sit-in protesters who were protesting in Gwadar, Mastung and Nushki during the Baloch Raji Muchi, as this crackdown resulted in the deaths of three protesters, numerous injuries, and widespread suffering. The protest aimed to highlight issues of the incidents of enforced disappearances of BYC workers and the ongoing road blockades built by Pakistan security forces to stop protestors from resisting their atrocities. During the demonstration, participants demanded an end to the Gwadar siege and justice for victims of state-backed terrorism. The protesters also called on the international community to take action against the ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan. Addressing the protesters, the rally organizers condemned the Pakistani Security forces' intolerable atrocities against peaceful and innocent people in Gwadar, Mastung, and Nushki. They also urged that the Pakistan army's control over Gwadar must be lifted immediately to prevent a potential humanitarian crisis. Requesting Human rights authorities to take notice of the humanitarian atrocities in Balochistan and hold Pakistan accountable, calling the blocking of the internet and roads the illusion of the state and said that the state cannot hide its atrocities with such measures. (ANI)
First English Lutheran to welcome new pastor, have produce distribution, rummage sale

First English Lutheran Church in Mansfield will welcome its new pastor, Jay Jackson, Aug. 18. The Jackson family will move to Mansfield soon.

The church, located at 53 Park Avenue West, offers a free produce drive-through distribution on the second Tuesday of the month, April-November. The next distribution is 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Aug. 13. The church receives more than 8,000 pounds of fresh produce for the distribution, which is open to everyone.

Participants must show a state ID, driver's license or proof of residence. First English volunteers will load the produce into vehicles in the church's west parking lot along South Mulberry Street. Make sure the car trunk is empty.

News in Brief

The church will hold a rummage sale 3-6 p.m. Aug. 23 and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 24 in its undercroft. Donations received from the sale will go toward upgrading the churchs antiphonal organ.

Also on Aug. 24, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., the church will offer food concessions in its east parking lot. Tables and chairs will be available. Food is offered by donation. Proceeds are used to support feeding over 900 orphans at the Malawi Orphan Care Project in Lilongwe, Malawi.

For more information call the church at 419-522-0662.

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Produce giveaway, rummage sale, new pastor at First English Lutheran
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.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is the official vice presidential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris in her campaign for the presidency. The Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump chose Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance as his vice presidential running mate last month.

The candidates for vice president are far apart on several issues. Walz and Vance share views and policy points that almost mirror those of their running mates.

But what are the key issues where Walz and Vance disagree? Here are some of those topics, which may be discussed at a vice presidential debate.

Reproductive rights/abortion

A major issue in the 2024 presidential election is women's reproductive rights and abortion. Walz, on his official campaign website, says he "protected womens right to choose" while serving the state of Minnesota and "led the fight for reproductive freedom."

In 2023 he signed into law the PRO Act, which gave Minnesotans the fundamental right to make their own decisions regarding reproductive health, which includes the right to obtain an abortion along with other reproductive freedoms.

Vance has been an anti-abortion activist in his political career. The New York Times reported that Vance said: Its not whether a woman should be forced to bring a child to term. Its whether a child should be allowed to live." The quote is from a statement to an Ohio radio host in September 2021, before Roe v. Wade was overturned.

CNN reported that Vance said in a podcast in 2022 that "would like abortion to be illegal nationally" but since then has stated that he sides with Trump on his stance that states should decide their own abortion laws, as reported by the Guardian.

Immigration

Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance campaigns on Aug. 6, 2024, in Philadelphia.

Vance, Trump, has taken a hard stance on immigration, referring to a crisis on the southern border. Recently, Vance visited the U.S.-Mexico border and criticized the Joe Biden and Harris immigration policies. During his visit, he said, "We got kids who cannot learn in schools because they are overwhelmed with migrant children who should not be there."

Vance advocates for the completed construction of the border wall and mass deportations of illegal immigrants.

Walz, on the other hand, has argued that "immigrants strengthen our communities." He has written a letter to Congress that says elected officials need to work together for "Dreamers," undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children, to achieve a pathway to citizenship.

He signed a bill in March 2023 that allowed anyone from Minnesota to receive a state driver's license regardless of immigration status.

Education

Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris speaks as her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz applauds at Temple University's Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 6, 2024.

In his time as governor, Walz has prioritized public education. In his One Minnesota Budget, he increased state funding for public education.

He also signed into law a universal free school lunch bill, which gave students, regardless of income, free breakfast and lunch every day.

One of Vance's most passionate stances on education deals with affirmative action. He introduced in Congress the College Admissions Accountability Act, under which federal student assistance and institutional aid would need to abide by Equal Protection Clause and Title VI prohibitions on racial discrimination or racial preferences.

Vance states on his website, "Americas higher education cartel has discriminated against applicants and students by adhering to racial preferences under the banner of equity."

Economics

Walz has said he wants to be a champion of the working class. His One Minnesota Budget said nearly 1.4 million middle-class residents from Minnesota saw a cut in taxes.

Last year, Walz also signed a bill that created a new paid leave program in Minnesota that will launch in 2026. It will provide medical leave, when a person's health condition keeps them from working, and family leave for when a family member is ill or time is needed for a new child.

Walz says on his campaign website that he wants to continue to "cut taxes for working families."

Vance has promoted Trump's "America first" economic policy, which promotes U.S. manufacturing and protecting American jobs by placing tariffs on imports from China and other countries.

The Republican vice presidential nominee has experience as a venture capitalist who made personal investments in Walmart, Bitcoin and real estate.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Where VP candidates J.D. Vance and Tim Walz stand on issues
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.
KYOTO, Aug 08 (News On Japan) - The Hokuriku Shinkansen extension to the Kansai region has proposed three potential sites for a new station in Kyoto: beneath JR Kyoto Station with an east-west alignment, beneath the south side of Kyoto Station with a north-south alignment, and near JR Katsuragawa Station.

The full line is expected to generate an annual economic impact of approximately 2.7 trillion yen.

However, extended construction periods and rising costs have inflated the project budget to over 5 trillion yen. Additionally, there are concerns about the impact on groundwater due to the underground station, particularly affecting areas like Fushimi known for sake production.

The project faces challenges in convincing local residents of its benefits despite the increased costs and potential environmental impact.

Source: YOMIURI
NAGASAKI, Aug 08 (News On Japan) - Seven ambassadors to Japan, including those from the United States, will not attend the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 9th due to the exclusion of the Israeli ambassador.

According to sources, U.S. Ambassador Rahm Emanuel and U.K. Ambassador Julia Longbottom are among the seven ambassadors who have decided to skip the ceremony after Nagasaki City chose not to invite the Israeli ambassador.

In addition, the ambassadors of the G7 countries, excluding Japan, have sent a joint letter to the Mayor of Nagasaki, urging a reconsideration of the decision. They argued that Israel should not be equated with Russia and Belarus, which were also not invited.

Source: FNN
By Sarah Joseph Achimugu

Seven Polish nationals arrested in connection to the violent nationwide protest against hunger and hardship in Kano State are currently under investigation, according to the Department of State Service (DSS).

This was revealed by DSS Spokesperson, Peter Afunanya when the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tugar held a meeting with members of the diplomatic corps on Wednesday.

While responding to questions, the DSS Rep explained that they were picked up as a result of their display of foreign flags in the North-West region.

According to him, those picked up are being investigated.

He assured that their arrest was not a targeted attempt on Polish nationals.

Also in attendance at the meeting were the minister of information, Mohammed Idris, a representative of the National Security Adviser, the Inspector General of Police and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs.

The meeting is held as a result of the nationwide protest across the country which commenced on August the first, 2024.

The minister of foreign affairs commenced his address by highlighting the Federal Governments effort to enhance socioeconomic development, which he says has resulted in the cut down on debt servicing from 90 per cent to 68 per cent, as well as other interventions to ensure food security, create jobs and investments.

Ambassador Tuggar stated that the past few days have seen bad narratives on social media which is currently threatening the peace and stability of the nation.

He, however, assured that the Federal Government remained committed to protecting members of the diplomatic corps, as well as Nigerians in line with international laws.

He warned that the government would not spare anyone found guilty of funding the protest both from within and outside the shores of the country.

The DSS had earlier vowed to name sponsors of foreign-flag-flying protesters to promote insurrection in the country.

Speaking at a joint news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Spokesperson of the Service, Peter Afunanya said the identities of the persons will soon be made public.

He urged Nigerians to be patient what the Federal Government.
By Seun Opejobi

Aloy Ejimakor, the lead Counsel of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has told President Bola Tinubu that karma is not merciful.

Ejimakor warned Tinubu that all those involved in Kanus extraordinary rendition or continued detention have been disgraced, sacked, or facing resistance from their people.

He identified the crisis in Kenya, the alleged disgrace that former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson faced, and that former President Muhammadu Buharis administration was rated the worst.

In 2021, Kanu was rearrested and subjected to extraordinary rendition from Kenya to Nigeria under Buharis administration.

However, Ejimakor reminded Tinubu that Nigerians are on the streets protesting against his government.

Posting on X, Ejimakor wrote: Every regime or person that had a hand in the extraordinary rendition of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu either left office in disgrace or was sacked or is facing resistance from his people. For example:

Kenya has never known peace since it rubbished its sovereignty and allowed Nigeria to criminally kidnap MAZI NNAMDI KANU from Kenya. Since then, Kenya has murdered sleep and is still struggling to recover. And Uhuru Kenyatta may as yet have a date with the ICC.

United Kingdom, under Prime Minister Boris Johnson who covertly sanctioned the kidnap of her own citizen, saw Johnson being disgraced out of office. In the same vein, the Conservative Party lost general elections to the Labour Party. Labour Party has towed the path of the Conservative Party and today their country is in turmoil.

Nigeria: The Buhari regime that financed the rendition of #MNK from Kenya is on record as the worst government in the history of Nigeria. That regime will forever live in infamy for imposing intolerable levels of hardship and injustice which Nigerians are struggling to overcome.

President Tinubu, like his British counterpart Keir Stammer, has declined to release MNK and surprise surprise, citizens are on the streets of Nigeria protesting in droves. The future remains ominous.

The Bible says: Touch not my anointed and do my prophet no harm. Heaven is taking vengeance on those that kidnapped MNK and have refused to right their wrongs against him. God is in heaven for real. And Karma is not merciful.
NEW YORK (AP)  More than a dozen states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits against TikTok on Tuesday, alleging the popular short-form video app is harming youth mental health by designing its platform to be addictive to kids.
The Nigerian government has raised concerns over Russias possible influence on the ongoing demonstrations against economic hardship in the West African country after about 40 protestors had been arrested for carrying Russian flags.

Nigerian authorities have detained anti-government protestors in northern states for waving Russian flags and voicing support for Russian President Vladimir Putin, denouncing it as treasonable offense while threatening to prosecute those who do so.

According to some press reports, Nigerian authorities have detained several tailors for crafting the Russian flags used in the anti-government demonstrations. This move highlights growing concerns about Russian influence in West Africa. The state secret police, known as the Department of State Services (DSS), also apprehended some alleged sponsors of these tailors, though details remain scarce.

Protests against bad governance and increased corruption continued for a sixth day in several Nigerian states on Tuesday (6 August), even though the size of the rallies has shrunk. The protests have continued despite President Bola Tinubus calls for ending the demonstrations, and warnings that the protestors would face a crackdown from security forces.

The nationwide protests to decry the rising cost of living and bad governance started on 1 August before spreading across the commercial capital Lagos and several northern cities last week.

The unusual but increasing presence of pro-Russia support at some of the protests in northern states including Borno, Kaduna, Kano, and Katsina seem to have taken the authorities by surprise. The Nigerian police and the defense chiefs have both warned that the use of foreign flags during protests and open calls for a military takeover of the government is a capital offense under Nigerian law. Meanwhile, the Russian embassy in Nigeria has denied having anything to do with demonstrators arrested in northern states for carrying Russian flags.
Authorities are searching for two men suspected of using an "electronic device" to steal tens of thousands of dollars of cash from Connecticut gas station ATMs.

Troopers responding to a report of a white male tampering with an ATM and peeping into parked cars in Plainfield, Connecticut Monday allegedly witnessed one of the suspects fleeing across the highway into a black BMW SUV with Pennsylvania plates, according to state police.

Troopers attempts to initiate a stop of the vehicle were unsuccessful.

During the incident, occupants of the SUV allegedly dumped a backpack full of $52,000 in cash, an iPhone and a mobile hotspot onto the street while eluding authorities at a high rate of speed.

The suspects were not pursued.

A review of surveillance footage from earlier in the day revealed two white males entering the Northbound Exxon Mobil Gas Station store at different times. One suspect allegedly "used an electronic device to remove money from a Citibank ATM," said CSP.

Authorities did not elaborate on the device.

Both men had on tan pants, white shoes, black caps, a tan waist bag, and sunglasses.
Manuel Navarrete, the director of Spains Center for Intelligence against Terrorism and Organized Crime (CITCO), has praised the ongoing security collaboration between Spain and Morocco. Speaking on the 10th anniversary of CITCO, Navarrete emphasized the strength and consistency of this partnership.

The cooperation between the Police, the Guardia Civil [Civil Guard], and Spanish security forces, in general, with their Moroccan counterparts is very sound and constant, Navarrete said in a news conference.

He further underscored that this collaboration is crucial in addressing a range of security threats, including organized crime, terrorism, and irregular immigration.

Navarrete highlighted the particular importance of joint efforts in combating irregular immigration. The fight against irregular immigration is a key area of this sustained bilateral cooperation, he noted.

The Spanish official also pointed out that the model of cooperation established with Morocco is significant and should be replicated with other nations.
The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court Karim Khan who presented to the United Nations Security Council in New York his semi-annual report on Darfur said he was planning to request arrest warrants against some of the people who are most responsible for the crimes committed in the region.

The prosecutor, who focused on the investigation into crimes committed in Darfur and the regional capital of el-Fasher since April 2023, said the investigation is progressing. I will be in a position, I believe, I hope, by the time of my next report, to be able to announce a request for arrest warrants against some of these people who are most responsible for what we are seeing at the moment, he told the Security Council.

Karim Khan also sought the cooperation of General Hemedtis Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The ICC prosecutor also denounced the financial and political support for the militias and the inaction of the international community.

Apart from the civil war in Sudan, the Prosecutor mentioned the cases of ex-President Omar al-Bashir, who has never been handed over, and ex-minister Ahmed Harun, who is said to be on the move without hindrance. The prosecutor requested Sudans cooperation in their arrest.

Unusually, the prosecutor welcomed Sudans more positive cooperation that has been slowly building up over the past few months. His office was able to visit Port Sudan in March, and the government has responded to several requests for assistance. ICC investigators have been able to deploy to the region, and in June, its office also launched a call for witnesses.

The Security Council referred the case to the ICC in 2005.
As sub-Saharan Africa has seen an unparalleled surge of protests this year, from Kenya to Uganda and Nigeria, some observers are expressing the view that a new African Spring may be on the horizon.

Young people in Kenya, Uganda and Nigeria have taken to the streets protesting against the high cost of living, lack of jobs, and their corrupt governments. Inspired by Kenyas so-called Generation Z that successfully demanded the withdrawal of a bill that would have raised taxes, Ugandans marched against corruption and Nigerians have now rallied against bad governance and the soaring cost of living. Since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, people have also taken to the streets in several other African countries including Ghana, Angola, Malawi and Senegal.

Now, some observers, such as the Al Jazeera columnist, Tafi Mhaka, are asking if a sub-Saharan African Spring is in the offing. The current situation in Kenya reminds me of the early days of the Tunisian uprising, Mhaka writes. The death of a young Tunisian in December 2010 sparked demonstrations against the high cost of living and the countrys authoritarian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, later spreading across the Middle East and North African region like wildfire. More than 10 years later, I suspect the same may now be happening in sub-Saharan Africa, Mhaka adds.

Only the coming days and weeks will show if the burgeoning protest movement in sub-Saharan Africa has already got beyond the point of no return and a new wave of African Spring uprisings will engulf the whole region.
Soon-to-be ex-congresswoman Cori Bush. Photo: Tom Williams/AP

Cori Bush of Missouri, perhaps the most combative member of the U.S. Houses Squad of outspokenly progressive Democrats, narrowly lost her seat in an August 6 primary to St. Louis prosecutor Wesley Bell, who benefited from very heavy spending by a PAC associated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Both Bell and the United Democracy Project, which spent over $8 million on his behalf, took issue with Bushs uninhibited criticism of Israels war in Gaza and her ambivalence about condemning Hamas (though she eventually came around to agreeing its a terrorist group). But the campaign was actually fought out over other issues, with Bell and UDC criticizing Bushs refusal in November 2021 to vote with most other Democrats in favor of Joe Bidens infrastructure package (she and five other Squad members voted against it to protest compromises made with Republicans, which helped secure 13 GOP votes). This was the same line of attack that succeeded in defeating Bushs New York colleague Jamaal Bowman in June, where the incumbents defiance of party solidarity was similarly an issue and attracted both a strong opponent (George Latimer) and tons of AIPAC-aligned money.

In Bushs case, the primary challenge from a more orthodox (albeit quite progressive) Democrat may have represented a bit of payback for her successful upset win over a deeply entrenched incumbent in 2020, as my colleague Zak Cheney-Rice noted when she achieved global fame in 2021 for a protest against the expiration of a pandemic-related eviction moratorium:

Cori Bush, the U.S. representative from Missouris First Congressional District, came to politics through protest, having worked as a triage nurse and organizer during the Ferguson uprising in 2014. She primaried 20-year incumbent [William] Lacy Clay in 2020 with a message that took aim at his complacency: His longevity and cushy position in the Democratic pecking order left him ill equipped to meet the urgent needs of the moment, she suggested.

Now Cori Bush is soon to be an ex-congresswoman. She did receive $2 million in backing from the progressive group Justice Democrats and tried to make an issue of Bells failure to prosecute the police officer who shot and killed Michael Brown in Ferguson in 2014 (Bell was a city councilman in Ferguson before being elected chief prosecutor in St. Louis County in 2018). The two candidates had a lot in common, including recent legal controversies, as the Washington Post noted:

Bell and Bush are liberal Black Democrats who were born and raised here and who entered public service after protests against police shooting unarmed Black men. Both are beating back allegations of improper behavior: Bush faces a federal investigation over allegations that she misused campaign funds to hire her husband to provide security, and Bell faces a civil trial that has been delayed until January over allegations that he fired people based on their gender, age and race. Both candidates have denied wrongdoing.

Interestingly enough, fellow Squad member Ilhan Omar of Minnesota is also facing a competitive primary on August 13 against a challenger who nearly defeated her in 2022. But her primary has not attracted national money the way Bowmans and Bushs did, and shes expected to win handily (new national celebrity Tim Walz is one of her allies). It seems Bush became more of a target than Omar due to her aggressive criticism of Israel, as the Post noted:

Bush was the first member of Congress to call for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, nine days after Hamass Oct. 7 attack on Israel. She has described Israels subsequent invasion of Gaza  which, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, has killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians  as a genocide. (Israel has denied the allegation in ongoing hearings at the United Nations top court.)

Bell, on the other hand, called Hamas openly genocidal in an interview with The Washington Post last month and said the group was a threat to Western countries, including the United States. Israel is just the front door, he said, adding that it was important for our national security that we stand with our fellow democracies, and that we stand against terror states, and Hamas is a terror state.

The notion that Bell let himself become the vehicle for a show of power by AIPAC was encouraged by the circumstances of his late-developing challenge to Bush, as The Guardian explained:

Bell has denied being recruited by pro-Israel groups to run against Bush, but suspicion lingered after he abandoned a challenge for the US Senate and entered the congressional race not long after Jewish organisations in St Louis began to seek a candidate to take on Bush after accusing her of intentionally fuelling antisemitism.

So in the end, the Squad is down two members, and AIPAC has doubled down on demonstrating that conspicuous hostility to Israel has consequences in Democratic primaries.
Photo: Joe Raedle//Getty Images

Donald Trumps nickname game is nothing like it once was. Back in 2016, he cut through a crowded GOP primary field with idiotic-yet-effective classics like Low-Energy Jeb, Lyin Ted, and Liddle Marco. But his more recent insults have either been lazy (Sleepy Joe) or confusing (Letitia Peekaboo James).

After trying out a few Kamala Harris insults that fall into the former category (Laffin Kamala and Lyin Kamala), this week Trump launched another head-scratcher: Kamabla.

The moniker first appeared on Monday night in this pair of Truth Social posts:

He used Kamabla or Crazy Kamabla in seven more posts over the next two days. At one point, Trump explained why hes calling Harris crazy  because she is, indeed, CRAZY  but he did not elaborate on the part of the new moniker thats actually confusing:

Trump surrogate Doug Burgum dodged when asked about the nickname during a CNN interview, and Trumps running mate, J.D. Vance, wasnt any help either:

When asked for an explanation, the Trump campaign was similarly evasive. Kamabla represents all the hurt and misery the Biden-Harris administration has brought to every single American, Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung told me via email.

So what does Kamabla actually mean? It seems no one knows for sure, but here are some of the leading theories.

It means Kamala is blah or goes blah, blah, blah.

One of the most popular guesses is that Trump is trying to work the word blah into Harriss name. The likeliest pronunciation of the nickname is Kama-blah, but Trump has yet to say it out loud, so we dont really know. (In a lengthy Fox & Friends appearance on Wednesday morning, Trump only referred to Harris as her or she.)

But if this is what Trump meant, why didnt he spell it Kamablah? Which definition of blah is he using: dull or silly or pretentious chatter or nonsense? Both? Its still very confusing.

Its a mash-up of Kamala and Obama.

Deep down, Trump wishes he were running against his original political nemesis, Barack Obama. Earlier in the 2024 campaign, Trump floated a conspiracy theory that claimed the two-term former president was actively running the Biden administration, and hes publicly said Obama when he meant Biden at least seven times. Its clear from this 2024 election fanfic Trump posted on Tuesday that he still has Barrack HUSSEIN Obama [sic] on the brain:

But if this is what Trump was aiming for, its weird that he went with Kamabla, since the two names combine into Kobamala so easily.

Its a reference to the mob.

A co-worker posited this explanation: If you mispronounce Kamala as Trump does, then the B makes it sound like mob is in the middle of her name.

Intriguing theory, but how is mob an attack on Harris? Trump rolled out the name before Tim Walz was selected as her running mate, so its not about the 2020 riots in Minneapolis. Trump has been talking about the Biden Crime Family for months, but hes yet to turn that attack on Harris. And why not spell it Kamobla?

Its a deliberate misspelling meant to show dominance.

Trump called Ron DeSantis Rob for a while, so perhaps hes just mangling Harriss name to show he cant be bothered to learn the correct spelling.

Its a deliberate misspelling meant to be racist.

Trump spent years calling Elizabeth Warren Pocahontas and described his former Labor secretary, Elaine Chao, as Mitch McConnells China-loving wife, Coco Chow. So Trump simply being racist is always a good guess when it comes to inexplicable nicknames.

But how, exactly, is Kamabla racist? Again, no one is quite sure. Some think hes trying to emphasize her Indian heritage, while others believe hes working the word Black into her name.

Its also possible that Trump is trying to other Harris by suggesting she has a bizarre name thats impossible to spell correctly. Trump did the same thing with Nikki Haley, the last woman of color he ran against. During the 2024 GOP primary, Trump kept pointing out that the former South Carolina governor was born Nimarata Nikki Randhawa to suggest she was hiding her true identity, though she has gone by her middle name since birth. Trump never spelled Haleys first name correctly in these attacks, referring to her instead as Nimrada and Nimbra.

Its just a typo that Trump is running with.

Maybe were all overthinking this. Its possible Trump accidentally typed Kamabla in his first Truth Social post, then repeated it seven more times to cover up his error.

Perhaps well never know what Kamabla really means. We never got a satisfying explanation for covfefe either.
Photo: Alex Brandon/AP

As Vice-President Kamala Harris and her newly announced running mate, Minnesota governor Tim Walz, set off on their first joint battleground-state tour across the country, theyve been shadowed on the campaign trail by one-half of their rival ticket: Republican vice-presidential hopeful J.D. Vance, who has scheduled a dueling series of events in the same areas.

Hours before Harris and Walz appeared at their first rally together Tuesday evening in North Philadelphia, the Ohio senator held an event at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia. And on Wednesday, the two tickets nearly crossed paths when the Trump-Vance campaign plane arrived shortly after Air Force Two on the airport tarmac in Wisconsin ahead of events in Eau Claire for both candidates.

Then things got a little awkward. Vance made a show of leaving his own plane and making his way toward Harriss, prompting speculation that he was trying to speak to the vice-president or Walz. Instead, Vance headed to Harriss assembled press pool to knock the vice-president for her lack of media appearances since ascending to the top of the Democratic ticket.

Vance and Harris on the same tarmac in Eau Claire.



Vance comes over to cameras covering AF2 arrival...



"... hopefully it's going to be my plane in a few months. I also thought you guys may get lonely, bc the VP doesn't answer q's from reporters..."



Vid: @WEAU13News pic.twitter.com/QhUS2MtEby  James Stratton (@StrattonWISN) August 7, 2024

I figured Id come by and, one, just get a good look at the plane because hopefully its going to be my plane in a few months, but I also thought you guys might get lonely because the vice-president doesnt answer questions from reporters and hasnt for 17 days, he said.

In a brief exchange with reporters, Vance accused Harris of changing her political positions and referred to her as the Biden administrations border czar, a label that the vice-president has pushed back against. I hope that she changes her mind because it would be good for the American people and I think it would be good for you all if she actually ran a real campaign instead of one from a basement with a teleprompter, he said.

Vance seemingly made no attempt to talk to Harris directly, telling his own press pool that he did not speak with the vice-president as her motorcade left the tarmac. But the Republican nominee did boast about the moment, sharing a photo of him and his team in front of Air Force Two with a reference to the HBO show Entourage. (Its unclear who the Turtle is in this situation.)

This Entourage reboot is going to be awesome pic.twitter.com/cHbU6Z1H3u  JD Vance (@JDVance) August 7, 2024
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Serrated knives arent used as frequently as a chefs knife or paring knife, but that doesnt make them any less essential. There is simply no substitute for a long and hefty bread knife when cutting bread. And a shorter blade thats reliably sharp is always nice to have for delicate prep tasks.

There are two basic categories of serrated knife: larger bread knives with eight- to ten-inch-long blades and smaller utility knives with a four- to six-inch blade. If you only want one, make it a bread knife. All the things I would do with my small knife, I could do with a big knife, says food writer Christina Chaey. I dont want to cut through a cherry tomato with a large serrated knife, but I could. If youve ever used a too-short knife to cut bread, you know the opposite is not true.

Even so, Chaey says, If it were me, I would always recommend a big one and a small one. Smaller serrated knives are more maneuverable, which is why culinary artist Jen Monroe of Badtaste.biz prefers smaller blades when making the ornate cuts for her elaborate tablescapes. Chef Jeremy Salamon of Agis Counter also prefers small knives for bigger jobs, where agile blades make quick work of fruit and vegetable prep.

I asked experts for their favorite serrated knives and tested them in my own kitchen over the course of several weeks. They all agree that you should avoid lightweight, flexible serrated blades. My choices are weightier knives that wont bend as you cut with them. To find these picks, I went to Otway Bakery and asked for its two most-burnt batards of the day. I cut half of one loaf that same evening  leaving the other half to get super-stale. I cut up the second one for breakfast and lunch the next day. Then I sliced into the stale loaf when it was hard as a rock after a few days. I also sliced tomatoes as thinly as possible, peeled a whole watermelon, and tested the knives on some citrus.

Note that serrated knives have different maintenance requirements compared to straight-blade cutlery. Ive actually never owned one where Ive noticed oh, its time for me to replace this, the way I do with my Microplane every three months, Chaey says. The brand Shun offers free lifetime honing service for the cost of shipping on all its serrated knives. You can also send them to a mail-in service like KnifeAid, which sharpens serrated and regular knives for about $15 apiece. And if youre looking for other knives to round out your collection or a place to put all of them, we have guides to knife sets as well as magnetic knife blocks.

What were looking for Blade shape Maurizio Leo, author of The Perfect Loaf, says that a good bread knife should have a slightly bent blade shape because this allows you to use the full length of the knife without bumping your knuckles into the cutting board. Modern serrated designs also tend to get wider as they approach the handle, resulting in a more triangular blade shape with better clearance. In my testing, I found that either design can be effective. Serration shape Leo also says that rounded, or scalloped, serration is beneficial for cutting crusty loaves because it slices through hard crusts without shattering it. This was supported by my own testing, where I found scalloped serration preserved the integrity of both crust and crumb on even cracker-thin slices. By comparison, blades with a classic serration style (i.e., pointier, taller triangular teeth) would crush the crust before tearing through the crumb on thinner slices, leaving large, undesirable holes in the middle. Some cutlery manufacturers are also experimenting with their own serration profiles, such as Zwillings Z15, which alternates between scalloped and pointy teeth. Blade length For bread, a nine-inch blade is long enough to cut a slice off of even large loaves in a single stroke yet short enough to fit in most knife-storage solutions. Chaey says that she has a ten-inch blade that sees almost no usage because it doesnt fit in her knife drawer. For smaller tasks, such as slicing tomatoes or prepping citrus, a four- to six-inch blade is preferable for better maneuverability. Handle Unsurprisingly, the restaurant chefs I spoke to agreed that handle comfort was of utmost importance. Salamon prefers a rounded heel because a squared-off handle can cause blisters and calluses when youre cutting identical slices for 150 to 200 tuna melts a week. Leo says that handle size is also important because a too-small handle makes it difficult to control such a long blade. As for materials, a high-quality plastic in a nice color works just as well as the lacquered wood on a high-end blade. A rubberized nylon grip like youd find on a commercial blade can inspire confidence and is dishwasher-safe but also unsightly to many people. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Best overall bread knife

Hedley & Bennett Bread Knife $85 $85 Blade shape: Triangular | Serration shape: Classic | Blade length: 8.6 | Handle: Plastic, brass rivets The Hedley & Bennett knife sliced bread and tomatoes as well as or better than most of the knives I tested and excelled in cutting the slippery crust of the stale loaf. But what really set it apart was how well balanced it felt in my hand. The narrow tip of its 8.6-inch German steel blade was easier to pull through the very bottom bit of tough crust to obtain a clean slice of bread in a single stroke. It also lightens the blade relative to the handle, so it feels easier to control as you slice. The handle itself has the comfortably rounded heel that restaurant chefs love and features handsome brass rivets that distinguish it from a typical western-style handle. I also appreciate that its available in four colors to fit a wide variety of kitchen decor. The only minor disadvantage is that its pointy serration profile can tear delicate nooks and crannies when slicing cracker-thin pieces of bread. Chef Danny Garcia, winner of Top Chef season 21 and executive chef of the Kent Hospitality Group, was unequivocal in his endorsement of this knife: The Hedley & Bennett bread knife is great. Its incredibly sharp. Really, really sharp. $85 at Hedley & Bennett Buy

Best less-expensive bread knife

Kai PRO Bread Knife 9 $47 $47 Blade shape: Triangular | Serration shape: Scalloped | Blade length: 9 | Handle: Plastic, steel rivets This is the sharpest bread knife you can buy for under $100, let alone $50. Its scallop-edged, high-carbon Japanese stainless-steel blade is sharpened to a 16-degree angle (much steeper than the typical 10-degree edge on a German-style blade), which helps it glide effortlessly through delicate tomato skins. The tall, rounded teeth need a bit of a push to take that first bite out of a stale bread crust, but once its going, it slices cleanly and smoothly through every nook and cranny. Its cylindrical handle shape isnt the grippiest, however, and its a bit lightweight relative to the heft of the blade. But it is NSF-certified for use in commercial kitchens and dishwashers (although I recommend hand-washing if you want it to stay sharp). In the end, it was a close call between this and the Hedley & Bennett for the best overall bread knife  you really cant go wrong with either, but I think most home cooks would appreciate the Hedley & Bennetts balanced handling and slightly better bread performance compared to the KAIs sharpness advantage. $47 at Amazon Buy $47 at Amazon Buy

Best even less-expensive bread knife

Henckels Dynamic 8-inch Bread Knife $16 $22 now 28% off $16 Blade shape: Curved | Serration shape: Classic, shallow | Blade length: 8 | Handle: Plastic, steel rivets When I asked our experts how much one should spend on a decent bread knife, most said they wouldnt trust a knife under $50 because it was unlikely to have a full tang (meaning that the blade steel extends through the full length of the handle) and that you should ideally pay closer to $100. Thats why I was shocked when the Henckels Dynamic not only met all my requirements but also tested comparably to knives costing three times as much or more. My only complaint is that its eight-inch blade struggled to cut a whole slice of bread in just one stroke. The stamped stainless-steel blade wont stay as sharp over time compared to the high-carbon German and Japanese stainless steel found on higher-priced knives. But for less than $20, its a great value for unfussy cooks and for sharing with roommates. $16 at Amazon Buy $16 at Zwilling Buy

Best utility knife

Zwilling Gourmet 5.5-inch Serrated Prep Knife $45 $63 now 29% off $45 Blade shape: Triangular | Serration shape: Z15 (semi-scalloped) | Blade length: 5.5 | Handle: Plastic, steel rivets This medium-size serrated knife is always ready to go for all the classic serrated tasks: cutting tomatoes of all sizes and peeling and supreming citrus. But its also big enough to halve a sandwich, peel a melon, or prep a pineapple. And its the one that Im most happy to own, says Chaey. The blades serration alternates between round and pointy teeth, which is smooth enough to maintain the integrity of delicate tomato skins while still having enough bite to peel a butternut squash. $45 at Amazon Buy $45 at Amazon Buy

Best high-end bread knife

Shun Cutlery Premier 9 Bread Knife $194 $263 now 26% off $194 Blade shape: Curved | Serration shape: Scalloped | Blade length: 9 | Handle: Wood over forged steel This is Leos favorite bread knife, and it was easy to see why after I tested it against other top competitors. Its scalloped, premium Japanese steel blade sliced through even the toughest, stalest loaves in a single stroke, like a hot knife through butter. It sliced so smoothly and cleanly that I would have no qualms recommending it as a slicing knife for anything short of sashimi (and even then, my concerns would be aesthetic not performance related). At one point, I wanted to see just how thin of a slice of bread I could get without compromising any part of the crust or crumb  I even brought out my calipers to measure the results. The answer? Two millimeters. I have no doubt that I could have gone thinner, but confidence in my own ability to avoid cutting my knuckles was the limiting factor. Leo has used his Premier Bread daily for over ten years now and hes only once had to take advantage of Shuns complimentary honing service for serrated blades. I swear, when I got the knife back, it was like brand-new. $194 at Amazon Buy $194 at Amazon Buy

Best less-expensive tomato knife

Victorinox 6.7832 Swiss Classic Tomato and Table Knife $14 $14 Blade shape: Curved | Serration shape: Classic | Blade length: 4.3 | Handle: Plastic The Victorinox knife is a classic commercial-kitchen workhorse for good reason. The 4.3-inch Swiss steel blade isnt long enough for halving sandwiches or slicing bread of any sort, but its the perfect size for doing the two most commonly cited tasks for a serrated utility knife: slicing tomatoes and prepping citrus. And because its so cheap, you dont have to think twice about maintaining it or tossing it in the dishwasher. Thats why its a favorite of Garcias. Theyre fairly inexpensive; you can find them anywhere, he says. At any given time in my toolbox, I have a stack of about ten of them. To be clear, Garcia keeps spares because they can dull quickly in a restaurant kitchen, but a home cook can expect to get many years of use out of a single blade. $14 at Amazon Buy $14 at Amazon Buy

The Victorinox tomato knife made it easy to cut ripe tomatoes into thin slices. Photo: Michael Zhao

Best German bread knife

Zwilling Pro 9-inch Bread Knife Z15 Serration $131 $163 now 20% off $131 Blade shape: Curved | Serration shape: Z15 (semi-scalloped) | Blade length: 9 | Handle: Plastic, forged steel This knife is a very good option for anyone looking to complete their set of German-style knives. The updated semi-scalloped-edge profile combines the smooth slicing of rounded teeth with the bite and grip of triangular teeth. After comparing it head-to-head against the Zwilling Pro Bread Knife with regular serration recommended by Chaey, Im confident that its worth the extra $20. Both knives cut confidently through fresh and stale crusty bread, but the Z15 did a better job of keeping the crumb intact on thinner slices and had better grip on the stale crust. It also cuts more smoothly through tomato skin. While it was no match for the Shun on the thinnest slices, it outperformed all other blades, and I wouldnt hesitate to recommend it to anyone who prefers German-style knives. $131 at Amazon Buy $140 at Zwilling Buy

Best extra-long bread knife

Wusthof Classic Bread Knife $153 $153 Blade shape: Curved | Serration shape: Classic | Blade length: 10 | Handle: Plastic, forged steel When it comes to splitting a cake into layers, every inch matters. Even a nine-inch blade might not cut it, when it is a nine-inch round cake. Thats why Monroe prefers the Wusthof Classic bread knife for this purpose. This German knife may look chunky, but, as Monroe says, having a slightly heavier knife really helps when youre cutting through something lighter weight because it provides stability as you slice. $153 at Amazon Buy $153 at Amazon Buy

The best serrated knives make it easy to cut a crusty, even stale loaf, into cracker-thin slices. Photo: Michael Zhao

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The Alabama Farmers Federation honored two Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Auburn University agriculturalists for outstanding research and service on Aug. 3.

A Lee County family won first runner up in the Outstanding Young Family Farmer contest.

The sixth annual awards were presented at the Federations Farm & Land Conference in Montgomery. Andre da Silva earned the Rittenour Award for production agriculture and forestry extension, while Dennis Brothers received the Duncan Award for the same.

Da Silva, an associate professor and ACES vegetable specialist, scored $10,000 from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation.

His work is instrumental in developing best management practices for high-yielding, high-quality vegetable crops. Da Silva plans to use the prize to further his variety trials and diversify research.

Its encouraging to see my work and drive to help was recognized, da Silva said. I like working with people. Thats why I enjoy working for Extension. When a grower has a problem, you help them and then they succeed. Its rewarding for me to see their harvest of vegetables and high-quality production.

Brothers, an associate ACES professor in AUs Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology Department, was also proud of the recognition.

As the Duncan Award winner, he earned $5,000 to fund his poultry economic research, courtesy of AFAF. Past projects include the poultry production cost calculator tool, a New Farmers Guide to the Commercial Broiler Industry manual and the 2022 Alabama Ag & Forestry Economic Contribution Study.

Im always looking for ways to benefit the guy out there with chicken manure on his boots, Brothers said. I get unique opportunities to serve poultry growers. The people are what make any job rewarding for me.

The Federation was honored to present the Rittenour and Duncan awards to two trailblazers in agriculture, said Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

Alabama farmers are blessed to have da Silva and Brothers in their corner, Parnell said. Their practical research is helping farmers stay productive, profitable and on their farms. Thats important in todays economy. Were proud to recognize these leaders and thank them for their work.

Outstanding Young Family Farmer contest

Whit and Amanda Lovelady from Talladega County were named Alabamas Outstanding Young Family Farm at the Alabama Farmers Federation. The Loveladys raise cattle and hay with their children Annagrace and John Luke.

As the OYFF, they will receive over $70,000 in prizes including $40,000 toward a new Ford truck compliments of Alfa Insurance; a John Deere 835M Gator sponsored by Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a years lease on a John Deere tractor courtesy of John Deere, SunSouth and TriGreen.

Garrett and Robin Dixon of Lee County were named first runner-up in the OYFF contest. They raise row crops with their children Chandler Jane and Cash. They will receive the use of a Kubota M series tractor courtesy of Kubota.

Drew and Lauren Wendland of Autauga County were named second runner-up and earned a custom chemical package from Corteva. The Wendlands raise row crops and hay and have three children, Mills, Smith and Rhett.

Additionally, the Dixons and Wendlands will receive $500 from perennial sponsors Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit.

Interviews in February were followed by judges visits to each family farm in June to select the OYFF. Families are judged on the growth and diversity of their operations along with community involvement and Federation and American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) leadership. OYFF competitors must receive over half their income from farming.

To take a look at the 2024 OYFF finalists, visit Alabama Farmers Federation's YouTube.

The Alabama Farmers Federation

The Alabama Farmers Federation was founded in 1921 and is the states largest farm organization with over 358,000 members. It established the Rittenour Award for Production Agriculture & Forestry Research and the Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension in 2019 to honor Auburn University and Alabama Extension professionals for work solving practical problems.

The Rittenour Award is named for the Federations first president, Charles Rittenour, while the Duncan Award honors L.M. Duncan, the first Alabama Extension director and a pivotal leader.
So scary. Glad they were caught before people got hurt.

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oh god i couldn't immediately help but think about that ariana grande concert bombing or shooting i forget which

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It was a bombing in Manchester.:(

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i just remembered because of the horror story of people pulling nails out of little girls faces and legs

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or the Paris attacks

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Same, I actually think of that often. And although I know it's no excuse for her messiness, I can't imagine that it hasn't impacted her mentally in some capacity. She was still quite young herself and her audience even younger... plenty of the victims were literal children :(

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That's horrific, I'm so glad they have been arrested before they could do harm.

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Holy shit I'm glad they discovered it and were able to prevent it. The memory of those parents waiting outside of Ariana's concert in Manchester hoping their kids would come out is awful.

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So glad they were caught before something awful happened.

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The suspects allegedly radicalized themselves online, "



Of course 

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For once my country is in the news and not for a good reason :/



It's really scary and infuriating that yet some more men have plotted to attack a safe space for mostly young girls and women... I'm glad they got arrested.



Edited at 2024-08-07 06:20 pm (UTC)

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Your government is in the news for a good reason because of them it was canceled and put everyones safety first. Bravo! 

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Yeah I agree that the decision to cancel was absolutely correct, but the fact that (once again) the secret service of another country had to contact our executive authority and warn them is bad :/ They also completely dropped the ball on November 4th 2020 when there was a terrorist attack in the first district of Vienna.



I just wish they'd get their shit together a bit better.

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I feel this, fellow person living in Austria. <3

It's... a mess.

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The world is a scary place. Glad they were caught.





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I'm not surprised that terrorist would target her concerts. These fuckers have done it before (Ariana Grande) and they're trying to do it again. So glad authorities were able to step it before they could cause any harm.

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I was supposed to attend one but ended up selling my tix

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jfc, what is wrong with the world. People (especially girls and women) can't go out and have fun without the threat of being killed because of unhinged men.



I'm so glad they caught this in time. The world is a terrifying place.

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I am very glad they caught them & nobody was hurt.

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I hope we can figure out a way to address the radicalization of young men online, they are so angry and seem to just want to watch the world burn

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I watched the documentary Four Daughters which was about the radicalization of two Tunisian teenage girls, and while the main thing worth watching is how the director incorporates actors and the real mother/sisters of the girls (who are in jail in Libya and one is raising a daughter in prison with her), it does go into the reasons why they were radicalized (from the perspective of teenage girls, at least).

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Ill have to check it out thanks for the rec

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ah ive been meaning to watch it! is it streaming somewhere?

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There isnt really a way that would be effective enough, unfortunately. It comes from men usually at a young age spending too much time online. Gonna be honest, parents these days are shit out a butt. They think nothing of sticking their kid in front of a screen and then fucking off to go watch the office reruns or some other quirky activity they should have dropped years ago. They dont raise their kids, they let the internet do it. and then they're shocked and confused when their kid turns into an angry rage-filled far right extremist. THEY did that!! Their lack of parenting did that. But as usual, they'll ignore it. Because they're still stuck in the mindset that makes them feel like they're still kids too, saying stupid shit like "im adulting!!" at 40+ years old lol. Dire.



Nothing can be done about the radicalization of young men by other people. It has to be their parents/direct family members, to nip it when it starts. Not letting it grow and fester. Its becoming more and more common, and only the same type of guys still fall into it. It is always the loners with too much internet free time. and this is whether they have a gf, or sisters, or not. It's not even just an "incel" problem anymore. It's aiming to become all of them.

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ban + block if not sanction etc any slightly radical imams, after the paris attacks after manchester... it would really mean something

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"pledged allegiance to the leader of the islamic state in july" FUCK this is gonna make more alt-righters feel validated about muslims stupid boy

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Its always a place where young women and girls will be. Dont tell me misogyny doesnt play a part in this

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Misogynistic male violence has absolutely been increasing over the last decade or so. They're not content with murdering us one-on-one anymore, now they want to get as many girls and women as possible.

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Yep. Whether it's far-righters or radical Islamists, it's so often about misogyny. Sick fucks.

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Despite concerns that consolidation could dampen Permian basin output growth, production has remained strong, with increased efficiency and producers raising output guidance.

The consolidation trend in the American shale patch continues, with several major deals in recent months, including Exxon's acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources and Chevron's acquisition of Hess Corp.

Franklin Mountain Energy, a privately held company, is reportedly exploring a sale of its Permian basin assets, potentially valued at around $3 billion.

As consolidation in the American shale patch continues, Bloomberg has cited unnamed sources as saying that Franklin Mountain Energy is gearing up to be the next sales target in Texas Permian basin.

Led by refining billionaire Paul Foster, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that sources close to the matter say Franklin Mountain has hired Jefferies FInancial Group Inc to manage the sale of the refiner, with price expectations at around $3 billion.

Denver-based Franklin Mountain Energy is one of the last privately held holdouts in the Permian, with assets in a prime high-growth area.



Franklin Mountain Energy has not confirmed the Bloomberg report.

Over the past 12 months, we have seen a major consolidation push in the American shale patch, with a lineup of megadeals, including Exxons acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources and Chevrons acquisition of Hess Corp. While the Chevron-Hess deal has met with significant hurdles over Exxons insistence it has the right of first refusal over Hess share of their Guyana operations, the consolidation push has refused to press pause.

Most recently, last week, Vital Energy, in partnership with Northern Oil and Gas Inc., reportedly struck a deal with private equity-backed Point Energy Partners to buy its Permian assets for $1.1 billion.

The Permian basin is expected to reach peak production in the early 2030s.

There is some cause for concern among analysts that the consolidation push could dampen Permian basin output growth, citing rig cutbacks that have followed mergers, with more anticipated. Despite this, there has been record production in the Permian, with increased efficiency across the American shale patch and U.S. producers raising output guidance and talking about plans to grow output further.

By MIchael Kern for Oilprice.com

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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.
The launch of the expanded Trans Mountain oil pipeline earlier this year was a kind of unique event. In a place where the government did not care much for pipelines and many people also didn't care for pipelines, a big one was allowed to start operating. And there were great hopes attached to it.

Some of these have materializedCanadian oil sands operators are boosting production. But others have been late in materializingCanadian oil prices are still trading at a hefty discount to the U.S. benchmark.

Alberta's oil producers had for years struggled to make the best of their resources for lack of export destinations. U.S. refiners had an easy source of heavy crude and because there were no other buyers, prices were permanently pressured into double-digit discounts.

When plans were drawn for the Trans Mountain expansion, producers undoubtedly saw a chance for higher prices. After all, the expanded pipeline would deliver 590,000 more barrels of oil daily to the port of Vancouver, for a total daily throughput of 890,000 barrels. These barrels could be sold abroad where demand for heavy crude was rather healthy due to the scarcity of sources and Canadian producers could get a good price for their product.

Indeed, the first reports about the new and expanded Trans Mountain have been promising. A Chinese company bought its first-ever cargo of Canadian crude back in March, proving that there is indeed demand for Canada's heavy abroad. Another report about a delivery for China surfaced in May.

While these reports are likely to keep coming in as Canadian producers open up to the world beyond the U.S., Canadian oil continues trading at a double-digit discount to West Texas Intermediate. At the time of writing, that discount was around $15, with Western Canadian Select at a little over $58 per barrel and WTI at over $73.

In a report this week, Reuters cited some of the largest oil sands players as explaining the low prices with greater competition from Mexican crude in the Gulf Coast, undermining refineries' demand for Canadian crude. They also noted refinery outages that affected day-to-day demand. Optimism, however, remained.

"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," Cenovus executive vice-president of commercial, Geoff Murray, said, as quoted by Reuters.

"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," he also said, reminding the audience on the conference call where he was speaking about the Netflix serialization-worthy saga that was the story of Trans Mountain.

The massive project was riddled with problems from the beginning, the biggest of which was environmentalist opposition that included not only activists from the general public but also the federal government. By 2018, the company behind the project, Kinder Morgan, got exhausted from the fight and gave up. That same federal government was forced to buy the project because of its sheer scale and the investments already made. It also recognized, albeit grudgingly, that Canadian oil producers could use more pipeline capacity to make more money for tax revenues.

Those producers began ramping up production months before the expanded Trans Mountain entered into operation. For this year, total oil output in Canada is seen growing by between 300,000 bpd and 500,000 bpd, according to a TD Economics note from earlier this year. This rate of growth could look positive, but it could also prompt concernbecause further expansions at Trans Mountain are rather unlikely.

Some analysts have warned that Canadian oil producers would only have a couple of years to enjoy their additional export capacity before production surpasses it and prices slump again on the fresh shortage. BMP analyst Ben Pham, for instance, said that the Trans Mountain pipeline would increase Canada's total capacity to 5.2 million barrels daily. Production is already at around 5 million bpd, so this leaves a margin of 220,000 bpd, according to Pham, as spare capacity.

Yet it will quickly evaporate because production growth will continue, RBN Energy analyst Martin King earlier this year. Instead of four or five years of capacity comfort, as originally expected, the Trans Mountain expansion may only provide relief for about a couple of years.

"Originally it was thought TMX would give us a four- or five-year window," the analyst said on February, as quoted by Reuters. "It now looks like that window of spare capacity might actually be a lot smaller."

It is perhaps too early to attribute the stubborn discount of WCS to WTI to these expectations of a pipeline shortage in a couple of years. But it was perhaps also a little too optimistic to expect everyone to rush to buy Canadian crude at once and lift prices to near parity with the U.S. benchmark. The Trans Mountain pipeline has only been operating for a few months, after all. It's quite likely it needs longer to have an impact on Canadian oil prices. Meanwhile, producers might refine their production growth plans. More supply always means lower prices, after all.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Renewables commitments falter as European oil and gas firms focus on energy security amid the energy crisis and skyrocketing prices.

Big Oil prioritizes growing its LNG business, seeing strong demand for natural gas in the medium to long term.

The supermajors continue to bet on LNG while scaling back renewables projects and investments as oil and gas returns continue to trump the poor profits from renewables.

The worlds top international oil and natural gas firms are sanctioning new LNG projects and buying stakes in new developments as they see demand for natural gas growing in the medium to long term.

Bound by the pledges to return more cash to shareholders, Big Oil is betting on growing its much more lucrative LNG business than on wind, solar, or biofuels, where returns have been poor for years and havent really taken off despite soaring global capacity additions.

In recent years, LNG trading has reaped a lot of profits for the European majors, while nearly all of them have had to take impairment hits on renewables projects in Europe and the U.S.

The LNG market is set to see a wave of new supply from 2026 and could be oversupplied from 2026-2027 until the end of the decade. Yet, Big Oil is confident that demand will be there and that their trading strategies and the moves to lock in customers from LNG projects will pay off.

Renewables Commitment Falters

At the same time, Europes top oil and gas firms havent seen improved market and business conditions to warrant the major push into renewables they had pledged before the energy crisis and skyrocketing prices in 2022 upended plans and shifted the focus onto energy security.

BP, for example, booked a pre-tax impairment charge of $540 million in the third quarter last year related to U.S. offshore wind projects. BP and Equinors filing to renegotiate the power purchase agreements associated with the Empire Wind 1 and 2 and Beacon Wind 1 wind farms off the coast of New York was rejected.

BP said in June that it was scaling back this years plans for the development of new sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel biofuels projects at its existing sites, pausing planning for two potential projects while continuing to assess three for progression.

This is aligned with bps drive to simplify its portfolio, focusing on value and returns, the UK-based supermajor said.

Weeks later, the other UK-based giant, Shell, said it was pausing on-site construction work at a biofuels plant in Rotterdam amid weak market conditions, taking a $780-million impairment charge for the second quarter for this.

The pause at the 820,000 tons-a-year biofuels facility at the Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Rotterdam in the Netherlands was needed to address project delivery and ensure future competitiveness given current market conditions, the company said.

LNG Bet

At the same time, both Shell and BP, as well as Frances TotalEnergies, are looking to further grow their LNG portfolios by raising their own liquefaction volumes and gaining access to additional third-party volumes.

In our Integrated Gas business, we said we would continue to grow our LNG portfolio by increasing both our liquefaction and access to third-party volumes, Shells CEO Wael Sawan said last week when the company reported better-than-expected earnings for the second quarter.

Shell has extended existing partnerships in Oman, invested in backfills in Manatee in Trinidad and Tobago, and agreed to acquire Pavilion Energy in Singapore to increase portfolio length, the executive of the worlds top LNG trader added.

Shell also leads the LNG Canada joint venture project in Kitimat, British Columbia, where it is working hard to achieve first production by the middle of 2025, Sawan said.

In addition, Shell, BP, TotalEnergies, and Japans Mitsui have just signed a deal with Abu Dhabis ADNOC to take 10% each in the Ruwais LNG project in the UAE as international partners.

BP works towards building an LNG portfolio of 30 million tons by 2030, up from 23 million tons of long-term LNG portfolio last year. The company is looking at long-term contracts and at short-term market opportunities, Carol Howle, EVP, trading and shipping at BP, said on the earnings call last week.

TotalEnergies has also been busy sanctioning LNG projects in recent months. The French group gave the green light to the Marsa plant in Oman, Marsa LNG, as well as the Ubeta gas project in Nigeria, which will supply Nigeria LNG.

These projects will not only contribute to the objective to grow our upstream by 2% to 3% per year in the next five years, but they will also boost the underlying free cash flow generation and ultimately shareholder distributions, CEO Patrick Pouyanne said on TotalEnergies earnings call.

I think there is a fundamental structural demand coming from India, and we are convinced that the Indian market will take the relay I would say, for the traditional, Korea, Japan, and even China, Pouyanne added.

LNG demand in China is becoming more seasonal as Beijing is moving very quickly on these renewables, continuing to increase its coal production, the executive noted.

Big Oil is positioning for a major boost in global LNG demand as a way to earn more money from their core business amid low or negative returns in the renewable energy industry.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com
Many Georgian economic sectors are well positioned to increase exports to Europe, according to the findings of a new study commissioned by the European Union and United Nations. The reports contents paint a picture of an economy eager to do business with Europe at a time when many Georgians say the government is undermining the countrys relationship with the EU.

The UN report, titled Georgias Economy Sectors with High Growth and Export Potential, is based on interviews with industry stakeholders and provides a snapshot of recent economic trends in the country.

The report fittingly found the wine & beverage sector as among those having the most promising export potential. The report also identified the transport, telecoms/IT, mining and clothes manufacturing sectors as having favorable export possibilities.

Georgia and Europe signed an association agreement in 2014, but the UN report highlights how Georgian companies have struggled to take full advantage of preferential trade opportunities. Numerous logistical challenges continue to impede westward trade, leaving Georgian exporters  including winemakers  dependent on traditional markets, such as Russia and Turkey.

The main challenges hindering [EU-bound] export growth are associated with obtaining the necessary certifications and meeting EU quality and standard requirements for specific products, the report states. Other obstacles include a lack of information on export potential and procedures, as well as insufficient production capacity for export.

Companies need capital to overcome existing barriers but the capital market in Georgia is not well developed, said Davit Keshelava, head of macroeconomic policy research at the International School of Economics in Tbilisi. Access to finance is a big issue because the major source of funding is bank loans, which are quite expensive, Keshelava told Eurasianet.

The government, dominated by the Georgian Dream party, is injecting an element of uncertainty into the equation. Its recent geopolitical pivot away from the West, punctuated by the adoption of illiberal legislation earlier in 2024, has alienated the EU and United States. Georgias constitutionally mandated effort to join the EU is now at a standstill. Officials in Brussels and Washington have stated that Georgian Dream needs to reverse its present policy direction for the countrys accession hopes for the EU and NATO to be revived. Public opinion surveys show solid support for Georgias integration with Western institutions.

There were initial signs this spring that Georgian Dreams policy drift away from the West would have an adverse impact on the economy. But the full economic effects of this pivot, if any, have yet to be determined.

With pivotal parliamentary elections looming in October, government officials are keen to project an image of business as usual. In a report on the countrys economic performance during the first half of 2024, the state statistics agency, Geostat, reported the country experienced strong GDP growth during the period, compared with the same timeframe in 2023. At the same time the value of FOB exports declined year-on-year by 6.7 percent during the first half. In addition, external merchandise trade turnover declined y-o-y 1.8 percent during the first six months of 2024.

By Brawley Benson via Eurasianet.org

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China imported 9.97 million barrels of oil daily last month on average, which was 12% lower than the June figure and 3% lower than the daily import average for July 2023.

The data will likely stoke fears about the strength of demand in the worlds largest oil importer and pressure prices.

The July decline follows an 11% annual decline in crude oil imports reported for June, although that decline was from a record high booked for June 2023. In the first half of 2024, crude arrivals also dropped, by 2.3% compared to the first half of last year, according to data from Chinas General Administration of Customs released in early July.

Reuters reported in a piece on the import data that the development was a result of slumping refining margins in China amid weaker fuel demand, which led to production curbs and, consequently, import weakening. Higher oil prices contributed to the gravity of the refiners situation.

According to data from Chinese consultancy Oilchem, as cited by Reuters, independent refiners in the country operated at a mere 56.11% of capacity last monththe lowest capacity utilization rate since 2021. Some refineries were even turning out losses and were shut down indefinitely to stop the bleeding.

The property sector crisis and the rise of LNG use in trucking have weighed on Chinas diesel demand this year, dampening the prospects of oil demand growth in the worlds top crude importer, which has been a key driver of global demand growth for years.

Gasoline demand may be plateauing, but diesel demand is outright falling, according to analyst projections. Chinas diesel demand in the second half of 2024 is set to decline by between 2% and 7% on an annual basis, according to four out of five analysts in a recent Reuters survey

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Crude oil prices dipped today, after the latest oil inventory report from the API showed a build, alleviating concern about the state of global supply.

In the prior session, crude oil had managed to recoup some of the losses it suffered on Monday amid the stock market meltdown.

The American Petroleum Institute reported an oil inventory build of a modest 180,000 barrels for the week to August 2. Although minor, the build appeared to have surprised traders, as it snapped a five-week streak of inventory declines.

In fuels, however, the reported builds were more significant, casting doubt over demand developments during peak consumption season.

Official inventory data is coming out later today from the Energy Information Administration. However, Reuters recently detailed the significant gaps between estimate data and factual data on U.S. oil demand, with factual data revealing much stronger demand than estimate data suggested.

Meanwhile, concern about demand continues to weigh on prices, while the geopolitical premium from growing tensions in the Middle East remains muted for the time being.

Sentiment in financial markets has steadied and crude has stopped sliding, but it feels like a tentative bottom, VandanaHari, founder of Vanda Insights, told Bloomberg. Oil market participants are keeping a close eye on rising tensions in the Mideast but not pricing in any supply risk premium.

The event that everyone is bracing up for is Irans attack on Israel, which Tehran vowed to exact as revenge for the Israeli attack that killed Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in the Iranian capital.

Any escalation of the conflict in the Middle East could see a greater risk of disruptions to supplies from the region, ANZ analyst Daniel Hynes said, as quoted by Reuters.

Meanwhile, Libya suspended production at its largest field, Sharara, which has a capacity to produce 300,000 barrels of crude daily, adding to supply concerns as the EIA reported that global oil stocks had shed an estimated 400,000 barrels daily.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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The Nebraska State Board of Education is nonpartisan, but in a country divided by two primary colors, the current State Board is evenly split: four Democrats and four Republicans.

That is, until this year.

Three of the four Democratic board members and one of the four Republican board members have decided not to seek reelection. This could result in an unbalanced board, and while school board elections are often overlooked as we approach November, there may be reason for concern.

We have strong schools, Deborah Neary, the only Democrat retaining her seat told Nebraska Public Media. And that can change with a change in board leadership.

As someone who has attended both private and public schooling, I can assure you that while I learned in both settings, the comfort, love and acceptance I felt in a public school paled in comparison to my two years in Catholic schooling. Public schools are for everyone and should be led by a board that reflects the majority of its constituents values.

Two candidates  Linda Vermooten (District 2) and Lisa Schonhoff (District 3)  have signed the Moms for Liberty Pledge. The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has designated the Republican-affiliated parents rights group as an antigovernment extremist organization in its 2023 Year in Hate and Extremism report.

Another State Board of Education candidate, Liz Davids (District 1) while not directly affiliated or endorsed by Moms for Liberty, is endorsed by Protect Children Nebraska Political Action Committee (SPLC-PAC) which according to Southern Poverty Law Center are partnered with Family Watch International (FWI) which is classified as an anti-LGBTQ extremist hate group.

Vermooten, running in the Sarpy County district against Maggie Douglas, has a controversial track record.

Last year, Vermooten spoke at the Papillion LaVista Schools Board of Education meeting. At the meeting, she stated some sex education books in the school library fall under the category of pornography and questioned whether the books should be in the library.

She has also spoken at Legislature sessions advocating for the criminalization of teachers for distributing porn by having those books available to students. Additionally, she is a member of and teaches Bible school at Lord of Hosts Church in Omaha, which is very open about their far right ideologies.

According to Reuters, Lord of Hosts Church Pastor Hank Kunneman described his opinion on the criminal charges against Former President Donald Trump on FlashPoint TV as a battle between good and evil and added, Theres something on President Trump that the enemy fears: Its called the anointing.

Kunneman said this in the weeks after Trump was found liable for sexually abusing advice columnist E. Jean Carroll in 1996, awarding her $5 million. Its hard to wrap your head around that kind of rhetoric being praised by a candidate who is supposedly anti predator.

As for her anti-critical race theory stance, Vermooten, who is white, was raised in South Africa, during the apartheid. The apartheid was a system of institutionalized racial segregation enforced by the South African government from 1948 to 1994 which oppressed the nonwhite population and granted privileges to white citizens.

Ill let that one sink in.

Vermooten grew up in a nation with segregated schooling, came to America as a missionary, and received her accreditation for psychology from seminary and Bible colleges. Sarpy County residents need to decide if this is a person with the background to champion public schools.

District 1 candidate Liz Davids has gone on multiple nonsensical rants to Lincoln Public Schools about sex education.

Their are many kids in Lincoln schools who dont even know if theyre a human being because they are claiming the entity of dog and cat, said Davids after calling teachers predators, and insisting that they had recommended carrots as a homegrown sex toy.

A more plausible argument against predatory behavior would be proposing actions to address the slew of arrests among heterosexual teachers having inappropriate relationships with students in the Nebraska School systems  but instead she focuses on demonizing sex education and gender identity.

Another candidate who has signed the Moms for Liberty pledge is Lisa Schonhoff, who is running for district 3. Schonhoff not only signed the pledge, but her campaign kick off was endorsed by the group, and was held in lieu of their July meeting.

If we keep telling them to teach DEI and SEL and CRT and every next fad that comes along, they see its not actually making better readers writers and mathematicians, Schonhoff said during a campaign stop.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs (DEI) is a broad term used to describe all diversity and inclusion programs together, including Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and Critical Race Theory (CRT) so the laundry list of so called fads is much shorter than it seems.

According to an article by Notre Dame University, the roots of DEI go back to the mid-1960s following The Civil Rights Act of 1964 when laws and affirmative action marked the beginning of workplace diversity training. These programs were aimed at helping employees adjust to increasingly integrated offices.

DEI is not a fad, and serves a crucial purpose in bridging cultural differences. Omaha Public Schools, for example, is open about their DEI policies outlining that the school denounces peer-to-peer hate speech, support students with different backgrounds, and safe guards students to report harassment.

DEI is not a class, there is no textbook, there is no curriculum. Its about preserving diversity in the public school system unfettered by hate speech.

In a nonpartisan role such as a school board seat, it is crucial to maintain an environment free from extreme political influences to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of all students. Some candidates, endorsed by groups like Moms for Liberty, are bringing a partisan agenda into these races, which could affect the balance and neutrality of these positions.

To ensure your vote supports the best possible leadership for the communitys schools, make an informed decision by reading up on all the candidates and registering to vote at Vote.org.
The Court of Appeal sitting in Calabar on Friday declared that Senator John Owan-Enoh, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, and others were the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State for the 2019 governorship and National Assembly elections.

The Appeal Court further declared that the Sir John Ochalla-led executive committee is the valid state executive committee of the party in the state.

Delivering judgments in the two cases that bordered on who were the authentic candidates of the APC as well as the authentic state executive of the party, the appeal panel declared that Owan-Enoh, Ndoma-Egba and others, whose names were published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), remained the authentic candidates of the party.

The presiding judge, Justice J. S. Ikyegh, and two others  Justice T. Abubakar, and Justice U. A. Ogakwu  unanimously ruled in cases N0: CA/C/62/2019 and CA/C/70/2019 involving Etim John and others versus John Ochalla and others, that the Federal High Court sitting in Calabar acted without jurisdiction in its order.

The Appeal Court noted that the lower court cannot grant relief, and make orders against persons who were not parties before the court.

The court accordingly set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court describing same as being pervasive, and where no relief was sought.

The justices said that the orders of the Federal High Court were made gratuitous, and without fair hearing and against established principles of the law.

The court said in the circumstances, the candidates whose names were published remained the authentic candidates of the APC in the state.

In the second case N0: CA/C/70/2019 bordering on the leadership of the state executive of the party, the Appeal Court judges also authenticated the Ochalla-led executive over the factional exco of Etim John, who is supported by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Pastor Usani Uguru Usani.




Ngwu after his arrest

A 41-year-old man, Mr Sunday Ngwu, has been arrested by security operatives after he allegedly beat his wife to death over a marital issue that developed in their family.

It was gathered that Ngwu who hails from Nkanu Local Government Area of Enugu State, was said to have engaged his wife in a fight after an undisclosed issue erupted in their family on Monday Night.

A source said Ngwu and the wife, Amara, had been living peacefully in an apartment at Ikwo Street, Ibollo, in Idemili North Local Government Area, but on Sunday after a heated argument with his wife, both of them started fighting, leading to Mr Ngwu thoroughly beating her up.

The source said, You know he is a man, so he had upper hand in the fight. But what he did which everybody disapproved of was that despite having beat her very well, he proceeded to use a heavy metal to smash her head, and almost immediately, she lost consciousness.

We do not know what the problem between them was, and for now, the man has even been arrested by police officers from Awada Police Division, the source said.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of Anambra Police Command, SP Haruna Mohammed, has confirmed the incident, saying that the matter has been transferred to Awka with the deceaseds body deposited in a morgue.

He said, On the 10/6/2019 at about 8:pm, police detectives attached to Awada Division arrested one Sunday Ngwu m aged 41 years from Nkanu LGA of Enugu State but resides at Ikwo Street Ibollo in Idemili North LGA of Anambra State.

Suspect allegedly beat his wife one Amara Ngwu f aged 39 years of the same address to pulp and then used a heavy metal object to hit her on the head leaving her unconscious.

Scene was visited by Police detectives attached to Awada Division and victim rushed to Bex hospital where she was confirmed dead on arrival by a medical doctor and corpse deposited at the mortuary for autopsy.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Mustapha Dandaura has ordered for the immediate transfer of the case to State Criminal investigation department Awka to conduct a discreet investigation in order to ascertain circumstances surrounding the incident after which suspect would be charged to court for prosecution.
A cross-section of Nigerians on Monday lamented on social media over a recent attack on Nigerians in South Africa.

Viral videos on Monday showed widespread attacks on Nigerians and their businesses in South Africa.

The President of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), Adetola Olubajo who confirmed the development to NAN said on Monday that the attacks began on Sunday morning in Jeppestown area of Johannesburg when a building was set ablaze by an angry mob.

The mob also looted several shops that were around the vicinity suspected to be owned by foreign nationals. But the Police later dispersed the mob and made some arrest.

Late in the evening of Sunday, Sept. 1, a group of violent locals suspected to be Zulu hostel dwellers besieged Jules Street in Malvern, Johannesburg looted and burned shops/businesses, he said in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

Reactions have continued to trail the development on social media as Nigerians expressed sadness over the development, calling on the present administration to secure Nigerians.

Here are some comments from Twitter:

@Is_salsu This Xenophobia attack on Nigerians in South Africa is saddening. Our brothers and sisters do not deserve this no matter what.

@Royaltyuso Nigeria cannot even vex and ask her citizens to return home. Nigerians in the diaspora will rather face hell abroad than return to Nigeria. The harsh reality of a failed nation.

@Yohanloyal South Africans call our Nigerian brothers criminals but see them. Bloody hungry people. No food when there is no attack on foreigners.

@Localblack_man Dear South Africans, Lets all learn how to love and uplift one another as Africans, dont forget there are South Africans in other countries. Let love reign.

@Onyiiforlife This is unacceptable. We cant have this Xenophobia attacks happening. Right now it is out of control.

@Odun42000 South African owned companies in Nigeria are the most patronized among their equals e.g. MTN, DSTV, Shoprite etc and Nigerians never hated or harm their people nor their properties. Stop killing/hurting your fellow Africans, we are one Africa stop Xenophobia.

@Frank_Leahxv Nigerians have accommodated other countries in the past and it never leads to unnecessary killings, see South Africa wey just blow yesterday are now killing Nigerians because they want them out of their country. Make them know to say this world dey revolve o.

@Makanakii Im black and Nigerian, you are black and South African we are both black, Dont attack me, Im your brother!!! Let love reign, allow me in your home and come to mine too!

@MrUcheya If our govt could be a bit more responsive, I dont think this bloodthirsty South Africans would be killing our brothers in their land. South Africans are the most miserable people on earth. How do u sleep after killing your type?

@Stevehezy Burning of humans? And you think this is right? You are just a murderer, nothing more to this. stop Xenophobia.

@Anulikay For a nation that suffered racial segregation/apartheid for almost fifty years, I find it quite inhumane that South Africans have no qualms meeting the same to others. Especially, as a nation that had to rely on aid from other African countries.

@Yungtunesneh Africans hating on Africans. Stop xenophobia now.

Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, reacting to the attack in a tweet on his official Twitter page on Monday, said the Nigerian Government will take decisive measures on the issue.

He said, Received sickening and depressing news of continued burning and looting of Nigerian shops and premises in South Africa by mindless criminals with ineffective police protection. Enough is enough. We will take definitive measures.
At least three persons have been feared killed after a fight broke out between commercial motorcyclists and policemen at Ijora in Apapa, Lagos.

The fight, which started around 9:30am, was said to have led to destruction of vehicles and other properties in the area.

Policemen had gone to the port community to enforce the state governments ban on commercial cycles but met stiff resistance from the operators who had earlier vowed to unleash mayhem in protest against the new order.

At the time of this report, security has been reinforced and several motorcycles seized, a source said.
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.




Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has dismissed rumours that the lockdown in the state has been lifted.

Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari had ordered a lockdown in the federal capital territory (FCT), Lagos and Ogun states as a means of curbing the spread of coronavirus.

Many other states also banned large gathering, including religious settings and restricted movement.

However, some of them have relaxed the restrictions to allow residents stock up ahead of the Easter celebrations.

But Sanwo-Olu asked Lagosians to ignore the rumour of a relaxed curfew.

He asked them to think long term, spend the Easter holiday with loved ones at home and stay safe.

The true meaning of Good Friday and Easter is the power of sacrifice. This weekend, the sacrifice of staying at home and social distancing is required to stop the spread of COVID19. Avoid fake news, the lockdown hasnt been lifted. Think longterm, StayAtHomeAndStaySafe, he said.

The Federal Government has announced a public holiday, do spend time with your loved ones AT HOME. We are thankful for technology; I will be worshipping virtually with my family on Easter Sunday. Kindly say a prayer for all our health workers.

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BLOOMINGTON  Bloomington firefighters rescued a dog from an apartment fire that displaced several residents Wednesday morning.

Crews were dispatched about 9:25 a.m. to an apartment fire on Willedrob Road. On scene, they found smoke coming from the back of a third-floor apartment.

Inside, they discovered a fire in the kitchen that was later determined to have been caused by unattended cooking, according to a news release from the Bloomington Fire Department.

Crews searched the apartment building for occupants and found a dog, which they were able to remove from the building safely. The fire was extinguished quickly, but fire department support staff remained on scene for two hours collecting items that had sustained water damage.

The apartment in which the fire began sustained significant smoke, fire and water damage. The two units located directly underneath the third-floor apartment also sustained water and smoke damage. A total damage estimate was not immediately available.

No injuries were reported, but seven adults were displaced by the fire. The Red Cross responded to assist tenants, several of whom did not have renters insurance, the fire department said.

The department encouraged residents to obtain renters' insurance and keep a fire extinguisher at home, noting unattended cooking fires are the No. 1 cause of residential fires and fire doubles in temperature every 18 seconds.

"Everyone did a great job today," Battalion Chief Pat Miller said in the media release. "They located the fire, minimized the loss of people's belongings, and rescued a dog."

Large, deadly fires take their toll throughout US history Large, deadly fires take their toll throughout US history It's The Largest Fire In Texas History  And One Of The Largest Ever Recorded In The United States. Most Of The Deadliest Fires In U.S. History Happened Over 100 Years Ago. Smokehouse Creek Also Doesn't Scratch The Surface Of The Costliest Wildfires In U.S. History.
BLOOMINGTON  A Bloomington man pleaded guilty Wednesday to attempted criminal sexual assault and was sentenced by a McLean County judge.

Jonathan B. Olivares-Venegas, 27, was charged in December 2022 with two counts for home invasion, Class X felonies, and two counts of criminal sexual assault, Class 1 felonies.

As part of a plea agreement, one count of sexual assault was amended to attempt criminal sexual assault, as a Class 2 felony. He entered a guilty plea to that count Wednesday morning, and the state dismissed his other three charges.

According to Judge William Yoder who sentenced Olivares-Venegas, the offense he pleaded guilty to is punishable by a Department of Corrections sentence between three and seven years followed by one year of mandatory supervised release or 180 days in jail with up to 38 months of probation and a possible fine up to $25,000.

Prosecutors said, in May 2016, the person named as a victim in this case was asleep in her home when she was woken by a doorbell. She opened the door to find a man who called by her first name before he opened the screen door and proceeded to make sexual advances toward her.

The woman identified Olivares-Venegas as the perpetrator in this offense, and he was arrested after a McLean County grand jury filed a bill of indictment in December 2022.

First Assistant Public Defender Matthew Koetters said Olivares-Venegas had 10-12 letters of mitigation to support him when this case was set for a jury trial in April, before the trial was vacated. Koetters also noted the victim might have testified at trial, if it had proceeded.

Assistant State's Attorney David Rossi said the victim's initial statement about what happened the night of the offense had "changed dramatically" as it relates to whether or not she knew the defendant in advance.

Yoder sentenced Olivares-Venegas to 180 days in jail with credit for 591 days already served while he was detained in this offense and to 30 months of probation. Olivares-Venegas was expected to be released Wednesday.

Olivares-Venegas also was ordered to pay all fines, fees and costs associated to the court within a year of his plea hearing. The defendant was also ordered to comply with any and all sex offender registration requirements.

Yoder informed Olivares-Venegas he has 30 days to withdraw his plea by a written motion to the circuit clerk.

Koetters could not be reached for a comment concerning his client after the sentencing.

Photos: Taking Steps to End Child Abuse 5K Color Run/ 1-Mile Walk
EL PASO  As Joe Montemurro sees it, the relationship between police and community members has grown strained over the years because of something lacking from both sides: respect.

By that, he means members of the community having respect for the men and women in blue but, equally important, law enforcement officers and officials having the same respect for members of the community.

"It's respecting both sides," said Montemurro, chief of the El Paso Police Department for the past four years.

This ideological shift comes in the wake of increased media coverage of officer-involved shootings and a growing distrust in law enforcement, he said.

"We want to make sure that people, the community, view us in a different way," he said. "But also, just as important, you know, that we view the community in a different way ... officers being more empathetic and more compassionate and more willing to help the community."

Events like the National Night Out, where law enforcement and emergency services get to interact with the community in a fun setting, help facilitate that, said Neil Gauger, fire chief for the El Paso Fire Protection District.

"(National Night Out is) reaching out and putting the trust back, in that: We're here for them," Gauger said Tuesday in El Paso's South Pointe Park.

Some 17,000 communities across the United States take part in National Night Out, traditionally held the first Tuesday in August to promote strong police and community partnerships.

El Paso's event, one of 179 held in Illinois, is free for all who attend, Montemurro said.

"You can come with not one penny in your pocket and enjoy everything," he said.

The night featured a hot dog eating contest, music, bounce houses, a raffle, face-painting for children, equipment demonstrations from various agencies across the region and even a few flyovers, Montemurro said.

It also sported a 300-foot zipline over the park's pond and "extreme jumping" with bungie cords for children, both courtesy of 25/8 Xtreme party rentals in Arthur.

Interacting with the community in a safe, fun and non-emergency situation is a great educational tool, Gauger said.

"I love it because you get to teach (the public) things that they didn't know, for one thing," Gauger said, "and then they get to put their hands on the tools that we have."

This was also an opportunity for parents and families to become familiar with their emergency services personnel.

"I think it's a great thing to show kids that community members (and EMS personnel) are people that they can look up to and they can go to for help," said Bloomington resident Jennifer Evans.

Evans, who teaches first grade in El Paso Gridley Unit District 11, brought her school-aged children to the event on Tuesday.

"As a teacher, I think we try to build those relationships with these community folks all the time," she said.

National Night Out, especially in El Paso, is a "premier event," said state Rep. Dennis Tipsword, R-Metamora.

"This is just a way for law enforcement to kind of give back to the community. We want to make sure that kids and families know that we're friendly," said Tipsword, who has served the Woodford County Sheriff's Office for 17 years, nine of them as its chief deputy. He remains an active duty officer.

While National Night Out has been going strong for around 40 years, Montemurro wants to go further.

He is starting a nonprofit called Community Blue that he said would stress mutual respect.

"It's not so much about the police-community partnership like National Night Out emphasizes, but more of a relationship."

The nuanced difference, Montemurro said, is that, in a partnership, there can often be one partner that is "more important."

"The police-community partnership, it's just that  a partnership where the police are the more important partner. And the relationship is, we're working together," he said.

"We're not more important, and neither are the citizens. Everybody's working together."

A relationship like the one Montemurro hopes to create with Community Blue ignores those divisions and spurns an us-versus-them mentality.

"And that's kind of the way it's been in the past, 'us versus them,'" he said. "It's not about sides. It's about, 'We're all in this together.' And we're all trying to make things better together. So, I think that's the culture that needs to be changed."

Tipsword said he supports Montemurro's work of re-envisioning that relationship.

"That is the message we need to bring from the law enforcement community to the folks out in the community. We are you ... and sometimes we forget that," he said.

Photos: 2024 Pridefest presented by The Bistro in downtown Bloomington
The Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged Ghanaians to adopt a mindset of possibilities, unlocking their can-do spirit to drive economic growth and transformation.



Addressing thousands of party faithful who participated in the Mega Ofie Walk at the Mampong Coronation Park in the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of embracing a positive mindset in achieving success.



The walk, organized by the parliamentary candidate for Akuapim North, Samuel Awuku, was aimed at kick-starting his campaign to win the Akuapim North parliamentary seat and entrench the UP traditions dominance in the constituency.



Dr. Bawumia criticized the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for dismissing innovative proposals by the NPP, only to later turn around and claim ownership when they succeed.



We must develop a mindset of possibilities, generating ideas that will drive Ghanas future economic fortunes, he said.



Unlike our opponents in the NDC, who are myopic in ideas and think our ingenious proposals are impossible, we have proven them wrong. Today, the free SHS we promised Ghanaians, which they vehemently opposed, is up and running. The drone distribution of medicines to hospitals is in full force. They (NDC) kicked against One-District One-Factory, and today it is working, Dr. Bawumia noted.



He encouraged Ghanaians to shift their focus from limitations, a key characteristic of the NDC, to possibilities, embracing innovation, creativity, and hard work.



When we believe in ourselves and our abilities, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness, Dr. Bawumia said.



The Vice President told the energetic crowd that the NPP will continue to think and initiate innovative ideas that will spur economic growth and bring prosperity to the people of Ghana, underscoring the future of Ghanas energy needs.



He announced plans to reduce energy costs by 50 percent through solar by adding 2000 megawatts of solar power to the countrys energy generation mix while also introducing electric transport systems to reduce public transport costs by 40 percent.



Dr. Bawumia also promised digital skills training for one million youth, a new tax policy, and simplified passport applications using the Ghana Card.



With your Ghana Card, you wont need to fill out a passport application form. Just pay the passport fee, and your passport will be printed since we already have your biometric details, he said.



Mr. Awuku highlighted the significance of the 2024 polls, emphasizing the choice between progress and stagnation.



He said, Elections shape the future and carry profound implications. A vote for the NDC is a vote for retrogression.



Mr. Awuku said, The NPP will reverse the solid foundations laid by the party, as has always been the case. We appreciate the difficulties Ghanaians are going through, but trust Dr. Bawumia to turn things around by virtue of the ingenious policies he will introduce in the next government.



He said Ghana was very lucky to have had the best pair of hands to manage the economy during the difficult situation orchestrated by COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war.



The National Chairman of the NPP, Stephen Ayesu Ntim; the Chairman of the NPP Eastern Region, Jeff Konadu; the Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Acheampong; and the National Womens Organiser of the party, Kate Gyamfua, took part in the walk.



Others were Nana Osei Agyei, NPP parliamentary candidate for New Juaben North; Michael Okyere Baafi, NPP parliamentary candidate for New Juaben South and Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry; and Abena Osei Asare, Minister of State at the Finance.











Source: The Ghanaian Times









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Two Canadian academics have acknowledged what they describe as an impactful transformation taking place in the Ghana Police Service under the leadership of Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.



The two, Professor David McGuire and Professor Edward Akuffo from the University of Fraser Valley, who paid a courtesy call on the IGP and his team at the Police headquarters on 6th July 2024 expressed their admiration for some of the strategic interventions that have changed the face of policing in the country under current leadership.



During a tour of the Police Headquarters, the professors visited the studios of the GH Police TV, the Police Surveillance Centre, The Police Shop and the Emergency Command Centre. They noted the immense benefits these facilities would offer to officers of the Police Service and the Ghanaian public.



They encouraged the IGP and his team to keep up the good work and continue to do more for a secure country.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Chief Executive Officer of the University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC), Dr. Kwame Anim-Boamah has commended the Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare and the Police Administration for the new image of the Ghana Police Service.



The UGMC CEO made the statement when he and other senior officials of the hospital paid a courtesy call on the IGP at the National Police Headquarters in Accra today, 6th August, 2024.



During the visit, the UGMC delegation and the Police leadership discussed possible areas of cooperation between their two institutions as well as the expansion of policing services within the hospital environment



The CEO of the UGMC in his remarks commended the IGP and his team for all they do for this country. He highlighted the significant changes the Police Service has experienced under his administration and urged the IGP and his team to keep up the good work.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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A non-verbal 5-year-old boy who wandered away from his birthday party wearing Batman pajamas has been found dead.

Matthew Glynn, a child with autism, was found deceased in a canal Tuesday afternoon, according to police in Boise, Idaho.

Matthew's body was found in the waterway less than 24 hours after his mother called 911 to report him missing.

Authorities said at this point there appears to be no evidence of foul play.

"We are heartbroken over this development today. The water was initially our biggest concern and a large focus of our efforts. 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," Boise Police Chief Ron Winegar said in a statement.

Matthew was celebrating his fifth birthday during a party with family and friends when he disappeared, Winegar said during a press conference earlier in the day.
The National Peace Council has given the assurance that it will work to ensure that Ghana maintains peace before, during and after the general elections.



Speaking in an interview on Joy News, the chairman, Dr. Ernest Adu Gyamfi, urged political actors to campaign with a focus on preserving the countrys peace.



Everyone is campaigning to win the attention of Ghanaians. Lets campaign with the intention to maintain the peace in the country.



"It will be a disaster to win elections only to realize that the country is in chaos. How can you govern if the country is in chaos? The most important thing is to campaign and maintain our peace, he noted.



He added that the council has mapped out all hotspots for electoral violence and will pay critical attention to those areas to reduce political tensions during the elections.



The peace council has a map of all the hotspots of election violence in the country. We know where the hotspots are. We are given attention to these places all these are meant to minimise political tensions in the country, he explained.



He claimed that some political actors hide behind vigilante groups to foment trouble.



The challenge is that there is a disconnect between the grass roots and the political actors, some of the political actors hide behind vigilante groups to cause violence.



"We need to get to the grass roots . The major problem is how to get to the grassroots for them to understand what misinformation and disinformation can lead to, he noted.



Dr. Adu Gyamfi reiterated the need for Ghanaians to understand the impact of electoral violence.



It is important for the public to understand the concept of electoral violence, it is intended to manipulate the outcome of the electoral process.



"It runs through the whole electoral process, it is done to manipulate the process, if we allow these things will continue, it will continue it is likely to lead to a more serious thing, the report indicated.







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.

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Three Ghanaians and one Chinese national have been apprehended for interfering with and installing altered meters from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).



Wisdom Sewlorm was an agent responsible for the installation of ECG meters. However, his employee, Ernest Afatsawu, tampered with the meters.



Afatsawu then sold these modified meters to a Chinese plastic manufacturing company for GH1,200, a report by citinewsroom.com has said.



The manager of the Chinese firm, Rulian Shan, and his sales manager, Ali Yakubu, were taken into custody on Friday, August 2, 2024, the report added.



Afatsawu and Sewlorm are currently under investigation.



It is worth mentioning that for the months of July and August, the ECG has lost in excess of GH77,000.



The report added that the four suspects are scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, according to Paul Abariga, Director of Investigation, Prosecution, and Security.



There are meters being installed in many parts of our operational area, and investigations have revealed that some of these meters are tampered with before installation.



Based on our findings, we arrested these four individuals. They were using a residential meter in a factory to manufacture plastic bowls at Oblogo near Weija.



We aim to conclude our investigations soon and present them before the court tomorrow, Abariga said in an interview, as reported by 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.

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Inveteck Global, a cybersecurity firm licensed by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) is intensifying its training programmes in the country to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the country's rapidly digitalising economy.



Between January and June last year, businesses in the country recorded GH49.5 million in direct financial losses through cyber fraud activities, official figures show. This comes as Ghana's digital infrastructure expands, encompassing online banking and e-governance initiatives, exposing the nation to increased cyber-attacks, and underscoring the urgent need for trained cybersecurity personnel.



Emmanuel Haizel, Director of Training at Inveteck Global, stated: "I am always excited to deliver impactful training at Inveteck Global, empowering organisations and individuals to stay ahead in cybersecurity while making the field accessible and enjoyable for everyone."



The company offers hands-on cybersecurity courses and comprehensive services, having trained close to 400 professionals in Ghana the past year alone. Already, Inveteck Globals reputation has drawn attention beyond Ghana's borders. Recent cohorts have included government officials from Ghana and India, as well as professionals from the Nigerian government, with the company training close to 1,500 individuals in India and 100 from Nigerian and US over the past two years.



Inveteck Global's curriculum focuses on practical application, utilizing current technologies and methodologies. Courses range from foundational cybersecurity concepts to advanced topics such as ethical hacking, with a reported 95percent practical component in their training programmes. This comes as the cybersecurity market in Ghana is projected to grow by 15percent annually over the next five years, highlighting the potential for further expansion in training and services.



Former students have reported positive outcomes. Grady Davis, an engineer who transitioned into cybersecurity, stated, "As a mechanical engineer with no prior knowledge in the cyber realm, I took a leap of faith and enrolled in the cyber security course at Inveteck Global, taught by George Kuoribo, lead Cybersecurity Trainer. I was blown away by the comprehensive training, which covered both the fundamentals and advanced topics in cyber security."



Godfred Quansah, now a Cybersecurity Engineer, praised the company's ethical hacking course: "Inveteck Global's ethical hacking course is the best in Ghana, and the best I have seen so far. It is entirely practical, and the instructors are well-resourced individuals with deep knowledge about cybersecurity and anything related to it."



Bernice A. Dulemordzi, Penetration Tester, noted: "To get quality cybersecurity training in Ghana, Inveteck Global is your best bet. 100percent of their training is practical, and one advantage is that they help you beyond the classroom."



William Boateng, SOC Analyst said: "Before joining Inveteck Global, I struggled to find a practical training program that met my needs. The hands-on labs and real-world case studies provided me with the skills I needed to excel in my career. Today, I work as a Security Operations Center Analyst for a leading bank in Ghana, and I owe it all to the top-notch training I received at Inveteck Global."







Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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An identity (ID) guru has described data as the new gold to drive the digital economy Ghana is building. In an era where the world is swiftly transitioning towards digitization, data is essential for driving the digital economy.



Chief Executive Officer of Margins ID Systems, Moses K. Baiden, said this during a visit by the Ministry of Communication and its agencies.



The visit provided the Ministry and its agencies an opportunity to observe firsthand the intricate processes involved in the production of the Ghana Card and to understand the various purposes the database can serve.



Participating agencies and observations



The participating agencies were Ghana Digital Centres, Cyber Security Authority, Data Protection Commission, Ghana Domain Names Registry, Ghana Post, National Communication Authority, National Information Technology Agency, Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications, Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT, and Postal and Courier Services Regulatory Commission. Margins ID Systems is the company behind the Intelligent Card Production System (ICPS), producing the Ghana Cards as technical partners to the National Identification Authority.



Importance of a secure biometric database



Mr. Baiden, a prominent figure in the identity management industry, stressed that a secure biometric database is crucial for the success of any digital economy.



He emphasized that the effective digitization of services can significantly reduce the stress citizens endure, lower transaction costs, and enhance the government's ability to deliver services more efficiently.



Mr Baiden demonstrated how the secure biometric database supports not only the identity verification process but also a myriad of applications crucial for the digital transformation of the country.



Benefits of digitization



"A digital economy cannot succeed without a secure biometric database," Baiden stated, highlighting the necessity of accuracy and security in data management.



He pointed out that the digitization of services is a game-changer, offering numerous benefits such as reduced costs and improved service delivery.



This visit marks a significant step in strengthening Ghana's digital infrastructure, reinforcing the country's commitment to leveraging technology for economic growth and enhanced public service delivery.



He believes that Ghanaian companies can go global, saying, We must own and price our resources in a way that benefits the country.



Connecting people to data



The vision is to build a company with cutting-edge technology that sits between the material and immaterial world, he added.



Mr. Baiden explained that identification connects people to data, and documents are no longer physical but digitized.

He noted that the system provides a unique identity because the base of fraud is to duplicate an identity.



According to him, in order to commit a crime, the criminal has to wear a mask digitally or physically to harm public and private resources.



Therefore, he said the government prioritized ID as the first step in building a clean society.



Legal process and id security



Mr. Baiden said the legal process determines how secure an ID is because the technology must always follow the law.



He appealed to Ghanaians to resist institutions from photocopying their Ghana Cards for transactions. Instead, citizens should insist on verification methods prescribed by the National Identification Authority (NIA). This call to action aims to enhance the security of personal data and ensure the integrity of the national identification system as Ghana advances towards a robust digital economy.







Risks of improper use of Ghana cards



Mr. Baiden highlighted that improper use of the Ghana Card, such as photocopying or sharing digital copies, can enable criminals to use others' identities to commit fraud and other crimes.



"Any reproduction of the Ghana Card exposes the card owner to identity theft," he noted, emphasizing the importance of adhering to NIA guidelines to protect citizens' identities.



He explained that the NIA system requires individuals to present themselves and provide fingerprint verification, which generates an audit code linked to the transaction.



This method ensures a high level of security and authenticity in identity verification.



Challenges and best practices



Mr. Baiden also pointed out that the primary challenge in Ghana's data protection and identification efforts is not related to data collection or technology but rather to attitudinal and enforcement issues.



He urged institutions to fully familiarize themselves with the NIA system to make informed decisions and adopt best practices.



The officials from the participating agencies asked questions about the process, which were answered by the top management of the company.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Senior Manager, Compliance at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Barbara Dede Okai-Tettey, has highlighted the urgent need for risk and compliance managers to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape. She said this at the Risk Summit Africa 2024 held at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra when she spoke on the topic The Compliance Function in the Digital Age: A Future-Fit Approach.



Ms. Okai-Tettey elaborated on the contrasting demands on corporate entities in the digital age. She mentioned that on one side, consumers are increasingly seeking seamless, round-the-clock access to internet services and tailored solutions. On the other side there is growing preference for flexible payment options devoid of the cumbersome bureaucracy of traditional systems. She, therefore, encouraged established institutions to rethink their product and service development strategies.



She said The introduction of Fintechs into the financial ecosystem has changed the dynamics. Fintech companies are swift, technologically adept, and have significantly altered our operational paradigms. We must evolve our approaches or risk obsolescence.



The traditional banking approach, characterised by limited access and reliance on physical cash, contrasts sharply with the agility and customer-centric models of fintech and insurance firms. These newer entities offer flexible, mobile-accessible options that appeal to modern consumers. Compliance must evolve, not just from a risk perspective but also from an advisory role. It is important to protect the business while adapting to changing times, she added



Ms. Okai-Tettey outlined the core mandate of compliance, which is to safeguard institutions against regulatory infractions, which can result in severe penalties, fines, or even license revocations. She further encouraged Risk and Compliance practitioners to be agile in adapting to technological innovation while adhering to the fundamentals of the profession to be trustworthy.



To be a trusted partner in the digital age, compliance officers need to understand the principles underpinning the digital economy. This includes comprehending the functionalities and risks associated with fintech products, thereby enabling them to provide cutting-edge advice and creative solutions, she said.



Many compliance functions are currently navigating the transition from traditional to modern approaches. The goal is to achieve a balance that protects the business while allowing it to thrive and compete effectively in the market. The future of a successful compliance function lies in striking the optimal balance between regulatory adherence and business innovation.



The Risk Summit Africa is a conference dedicated to the fields of Governance, Risk, Compliance, and Audit across the African continent. This summit serves as a gathering point for professionals, experts, and thought leaders hailing from diverse industries, encompassing finance, insurance, healthcare, cybersecurity, and more.



Together, they converge to address pressing issues in the domains of governance, risk, compliance, audit, security, and business continuity. The 2024 edition of Risk Summit Africa was held under the theme, Resilience in Uncertainty: Charting the Path Forward.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Director of Communication for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's campaign, Dennis Miracles Aboagye has described the controversial Agyapadie Document as senseless and a master plan by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to lure votes from Ghanaians.



According to him, the evil strategy has been the trend of the NDC in every major election over the years.



He recalled that former President John Agyekum Kufuor faced the same insensitive accusations before he was elected president.



They wrote a book about Kufuor and his plans to frustrate the Zongo community in Kumasi and other places. The 2024 version of what they did to Kufuor is what we are seeing in the Agyapadie document, but God will deal with them at the right time," Dennis Miracles Aboagye said in an interview with NEAT FM's morning show, "Ghana Montie".



He also slammed the NDC flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama's continuous use of the Agyapadie Document to campaign, knowing he masterminded the propaganda book to tarnish the Akufoo-Addo-led government and the Akyem community.



Listen to the full interview:













Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman/Peacefmonline.com









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Nana Akomea has backed the assertions by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo that Kwame Nkrumah is not the sole founder of Ghana.



Up until the President's claim, Kwame Nkrumah was widely accepted as Ghana's founder but President Akufo-Addo shares contrary views.



During his nation address on August 4 which marks Founders' Day, the President said; 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.



He added; 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.



But the President has come under intense criticisms with some critics accusing him of denigrating Nkrumah's legacy.



One of the critics is seasoned journalist, Kwesi Pratt, who describes Nkrumah as the "African man of the millennium", stressing Nkrumah's unprecedented achievements which, to him, cannot be overwritten by President Akufo-Addo.



He warned the President against walking the path of rewriting Nkrumah's story, asking dont you want the NPP to win again?



Nana Akomea, the Chief Executive Officer of the InterCity State Transport Corporation (STC), says there is absolutely nothing wrong with what the President said about Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.



According to him, he completely agrees with the President's position, explaining that Nkrumah's struggle to independence was majorly supported by other relevant parties whose names need a mention.



"If Akufo-Addo says Kwame Nkrumah is not the sole founder but rather he stood on the shoulders of other people, how is that a denigration? How people will take it is their issue but I'm looking at what Akufo-Addo said. If he says Kwame Nkrumah is not the sole founder, how is that a denigration?", he questioned.



Nana Akomea maintained that the likes of J.B Danquah and others are a significant part of the struggle for independence, hence "if you say he is not the only one, how is that an insult against Kwame Nkrumah?"



"All of them wanted independence", he exclaimed.



Mr. Akomea, negating the comments that President Akufo-Addo is debasing Nkrumah's reputation and legacy, emphasized that the President was "full of praise for Kwame Nkrumah" in his speech but many people have deliberately refused to recognize it.



However, to him, everything the President said "are facts and I don't have a problem".



Nana Akomea made these submissions on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has sent a stern warning to the government to ensure that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) discharges his duties void of any governmental interference.



Speaking to the media in Bolgatanga on the morning of Wednesday, August 7, 2024, the former President expressed worry over the constant interference of government with the work of the Office of the Special Prosecutor.



According to the former President, there is a perceived meddling in affairs of the OSP by some government officials and institutions, which may end up crippling the work of the OSP.



He highlighted the critical role of the OSP in investigating and prosecuting corruption and other criminal activities.



He added that, the next Mahama government, in his quest to fighting corruption and corruption related cases, will make sure that the Office of the Special Prosecutor functions void of any interference from his government if elected President in the upcoming December 7 elections.



He opined, To be able to deal with corruption, I think that we should take away political interference. We should leave the anti-corruption institutions to do their work. This government is fighting the OSP. Indeed theyve made attempts to, they hounded the first one so much  Martin Amidu  that he had to resign."



"The OSP should be left to work and I make that commitment when I come into office, the Special Prosecutor would have a free hand to do any investigations he wants."



What we do is its easy when you come into office to investigate your predecessor government. They are your political opponents so investigating them and prosecuting them indeed you will enjoy doing it, but the real test of the fight against corruption is when it happens in your regime that you are able to investigate and deal with it, he stated.





Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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Godfred Yeboah Dame, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, has criticized the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for their lack of a clear vision as the 2024 elections approach.



Speaking at the Efia NPP campaign launch and the inauguration of the campaign team on Monday, August 5, 2024, Godfred Dame argued that the NDC's concept of a 24-hour economy remains unexplained and unconvincing.



Where we are, in the life of our country, we need a party which is focused, a party which is has a clear vision. Ask the NDC the vision they are taking into this election. Is it the 24-hour economy they cant explain? That is not what we need. We need a man with a vision like Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, onuaonline.com quoted the Attorney General.



He emphasized that Ghana requires a party with a clear vision and focus, especially given the current state of the nation, adding that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is best suited to lead the country towards prosperity.



"Dont allow the NDC to deceive you. It requires only boldness, clear direction, and vision," Dame stated.



He further highlighted the importance of the NPP breaking the '8'a reference to maintaining governance beyond the traditional two-term limit of eight yearsnot for selfish reasons, but to secure and safeguard the future of Ghana.



"Breaking the 8 is not for any selfish reason at all. In my view, it is simply for the future of this country," he added.



Dame called on NPP supporters to unite and vote massively for the party, stressing the need for visionary leadership in the form of Dr. Bawumia.



"We need a man with a vision like Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia," he charged.



Joe Ghartey, Board Chairman of the board member of Ghana Revenue Authority and Member of Parliament for Esikado Ketan, also urged party supporters in the Western Region to vote overwhelmingly for the NPP.



"We have to win the Western Region massively so that we will also be counted as part of those that won massively for the party to come to power," Ghartey said.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has urged Ghanaians to vote for the party in the pending general elections.



In a video shared online by Adom TV, the former president, during a recent campaign tour, said the NDC has a track record of delivering on their promises, unlike the Akufo-Addo led administration.



He pointed out that most of the promises the New Patriotic Party made to Ghanaians have not been fulfilled.



December 7, you must vote for the truth. I, Mahama, will not come and deceive you. I wont say that I will build a factory in every district. I wont tell you I will build a dam in every village. I wont tell you that I will give every constituency one million dollars, when I know its not true. I wont lie to you, he noted.



He said the NDC will build on its legacy by focusing more on infrastructure development and job creation for the youth.



NDC in the previous administration was about infrastructure development, the provision of electricity and water, he noted.









Source: ghanaweb.com









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A deadly flesh-eating bacteria has claimed a Texas fisherman as a victim in what has become a growing concern as heath officials have publicly urged caution.

Brandy Pendergraft's father, Randy Bunch, was fishing in Freeport in early June when the deadly infection known as vibrio bacteria entered his body via a small scrape in his right foot after he waded into the water with no boots.

"It was a little tiny knick on the top of his foot," Pendergraft said. "I mean not even an inch, it was tiny."

"He called me having extreme pain all along the right side of his body," Pendergraft said. "It sounded like heart attack symptoms so I told him you should probably go into an ER and get it checked out."

Bunch, 66, died less than a week later, according to KHOU.

"It's literally, like the breath is sucked out of you," Brandy remarked about the tragic incident. "You wish you could change it and go back."

"That's not how it was supposed to happen," Pendergraft said. "He's supposed to still be here. For a little bit longer."

Texas authorities have urged caution about these types of infections.

Galveston County Health District (GCHD) is issuing an important public health alert regarding Vibrio bacteria, a group of bacteria commonly found in marine environments, the statement read.

Galveston County Health District has been working closely with UTMB due to an increase of Vibrio cases this year. Recent reports of Vibrio infections have raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with exposure to these bacteria, especially during the summer when water activities peak.

Vibrio are naturally found in warm coastal seawater around the world. The bacteria are present throughout the year but are more prevalent in summer when the water is warmer. Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Vibrio vulnificus are the most common species responsible for infections.

Symptoms of Vibrio infections vary depending on the species, the GCHD revealed. Vibrio cholerae causes cholera, characterized by severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.

Vibrio parahaemolyticus leads to gastroenteritis, presenting symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting.

Vibrio vulnificus can cause wound infections, potentially leading to severe complications or even becoming life-threatening, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or liver disease.
Former Minister for Central Region, Kwamena Duncan has cautioned the Ghanaian electorates against voting for former President and leader of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama during the December polls.



According to the former Minister, Mr. Mahama doesn't deserve to come back into power looking at his past records.



He cited some unkind treatments that Mahama meted out to residents in his hometown while he was President and wondered how his return to power will make any significant change.



Speaking on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' show, Kwamena Duncan narrated how Mr. Mahama, as Vice President under the Mills regime and President from 2012 to 2016, neglected his hometown in the sharing of the national cake.



He couldnt even say that, look, at least I must refurbished my own Kings palace; 12 years, first and foremost as Member of Parliament. It took Bawumia to go there to put that palace in shape. Also, just recently about 2/3 weeks, Bawumia has promised to give Bole an astro-turf and preparations are underway to get the astro-turf done in Bole. Only we could hear former President Mahama say he too wants to make contribution for an astro-turf there," he said.



He admonished Ghanaians not to make what he believes is a mistake to make Mahama President again.



"Someone, his own backyard, first and foremost as a whole enclave, as a whole big portion of our country where he came from, he failed them abysmally. Narrow it down, zoom in to his constituency, he fails to do these very petty, petty small things and it takes another person to go there and after the person has gone there before he (Mahama) also decides to help. Then you say that you are going to the polls to cast your ballot for a person like this?"



He exclaimed; "This country must reject him in all his forms and in all his manners!"





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Bernard Allotey Jacobs has described it extremely "unnecessary" John Mahama's promise to create a new Region from the Upper East Region if elected President again.



The former President and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has kicked off his 2024 presidential campaign tour in the Upper East Region on Saturday.



During a visit to the Bawku Nabas palace in the Upper East Region, Mahama disclosed that a proposal has been submitted to the Speaker of Parliament through the Member of Parliament for Bawku, Mahama Ayariga, for a Region to be created in the Bawku area named as Kusaug Region.



This new Region, he noted, will encompass the Zebilla, Binduri, Garu, Tempane, Pusiga and Bawku District and Municipal assemblies.



Mahama's New Region Promise



I discussed something with him. Your Member of Parliament, Im aware he has written a letter to the Speaker requesting that another region should be created out of the Upper East Region to cover the six constituencies in the Bawku area.



Bawku Naba raised it with me, and I told him in principle I think its a good idea for two reasons. One, for the reason of bringing government closer to the people.



Thats the principal reason for which we create new regions and new districts. And then the second reason is for security. Bawku is a special security zone because of the issues that have been happening here. And so it would be a good proposal to have a region so that it can be a focus to make sure that we deal with the security issues as well as we can.



And so, I dont think its out of place because the criteria are dependent on population, they are dependent on land size, and they are dependent on economic viability.



Allotey's Reply



The former NDC Central Regional Chairman, Allotey Jacobs reminded the former President of the volatile situation in the community, hence advising the latter to be measured in his utterances.



He warned Mr. Mahama against inciting the people of Bawku saying; "Not at this time. In politics, you know the place is a volatile area from time immemorial...I know the place very well, proper. Whether North East, whether Upper East Region, I don't know about a town or village that I don't know and I also know the tension and conflicts in the areas. So, if you are a politician and enters that area, your utterances should be very diplomatic and not offend any person."



Replying on Peace FM's Wednesday edition of 'Kokrokoo' show, Allotey Jacobs vehemently admonished Mahama to desist from making what, to him, are seditious comments, stating to create a Bawku Region "goes with fire and thunder".



Watch video below





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The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) says the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its flagbearer, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, cannot be trusted to fight corruption in the country.



According to the Party, the NPP and its flagbearer, also the Vice President, had supervised the worst and most corrupt government in the history of the country and therefore, could not be trusted to solve the menace.



Addressing the media at its Moment of Truth series, in Accra, on Wednesday, Mr Sammy Gyamfi, National Communications Officer of the NDC, said corruption and corruption-related activities had flourished under the NPP government.



He accused Dr Bawumia of nepotism, claiming that under the current administration, questionable and overpriced sole-sourced contracts, had been awarded to relatives of government officials particularly, that of the Vice President.



For instance, Mr Gyamfi accused the government of awarding five different contracts worth GHC218 million to a firm owned by a brother of the Vice President, all through sole sourcing.



In 2019, for example, he said, a GHC52.25 million sole-sourced contract was awarded to the firm owned by the said brother of Dr Bawuma for Phase One of the rehabilitation of the Sunyani Airport.



Again, Mr Gyamfi said, government in 2020, awarded two cocoa road projects  Upgrading of the 22.18km Assin Akropong  Odomasi  Asibrem and the Upgrading of the 14.50km Kyibosohasowodze bungalow feeder road, at a cost of GHC83 million to the same company through sole sourcing.



Also, the rehabilitation of selected roads in Teshi Camp, Southern Command, Military Academy Training School; the partial reconstruction of 44.49km of selected roads in Accra and the construction of Sunyani By-Pass Outer Ring from Kumasi-Berekum road, were all awarded to the same company through sole sourcing, he said.



This canker of overpriced sole-sourced contracts is causing the nation to lose billions of cedis which could have been invested in productive ventures to create opportunities and prosperity for all Ghanaians, he said.



The Communications Officer of the NDC, said the aforementioned incidents indicated that Dr Bawumia was neck deep in the rampant corruption and nepotism that had characterised the current administration.



He cannot therefore be trusted to fight the canker of corruption, as he himself is an integral part of the free-for-all grabbing of state resources, he added.



Mr Gyamfi, therefore, urged Ghanaians to reject the NPP and Dr Bawumia, and rather vote for its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, come December 7 election, stressing that the former President had the track record and the political will to fight corruption.



He indicated that under the former Presidents administration, he (John Mahama) allowed unhindered probe into corruption scandals such as the GYEEDA, National Service and the bus branding scandals.



President Mahama is a man of impeccable and unblemished integrity, he said.



He is certainly the visionary and incorruptible leader we can trust to rescue our dear nation from the abyss and lead us to build the Ghana we all want, a Ghana where corrupt officials are punished and stolen funds retrieved for nation building.



Mr Gyamfi also assured that the next NDC government would investigate and retrieve monies lost through sole-sourced contracts.

Source: GNA









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This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Surface magnetic field structure of AB Dor, derived from spectropolarimetric observations performed in December 2002. Credit: Strickert et al., 2024.

Researchers from Leiden University in the Netherlands have conducted a study of coronal mass ejections on a young solar-type star known as AB Doradus. Results of the new research, published August 1 on the pre-print server arXiv, could provide more insights into the nature of these eruptive events.

Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are huge eruptions of magnetized plasma from the sun and stars. Given that solar-like stars can be substantially more magnetically active than the sun, they are expected to exhibit even more frequent and energetic CMEs.

However, detecting stellar CMEs is challenging and astronomers seek for indirect evidence of such events using various methods, for instance, identifying coronal dimmingsstrong but temporary reductions of extreme-ultraviolet and soft X-ray emission.

It is assumed that when CMEs propagate, evacuated mass behind the CME shock front do not contribute, or contribute less to X-ray and extreme-ultraviolet coronal emission, generating a dimming in the light curves.

AB Doradus, or AB Dor for short (also known as HD 36705) is a rapidly rotating young solar-mass star located some 49.5 light years away. The star is part of a quadruple system, has a strong magnetic field, a rotation period of approximately 0.51 days, and its age is estimated to be 120 million years.

Previous observations have found that AB Dor is a flare star showing periodic increases in activity, and that it has a greater number of star spots than the sun. Moreover, coronal dimming events have been detected on this star, suggesting the presence of coronal mass ejections.

Now, a team of astronomers led by Leiden University's Markus Strickert investigate the presence of CMEs on AB Dor. For this purpose, they conducted a parametric study with 21 simulations of CME events on this star, at high latitudes.

It turned out that half of the modeled events resulted in eruptive CMEs, with the other half leading to confined CMEs. It was found that CMEs initiated in open regions were more likely to be eruptive compared to those initiated in closed regions.

Furthermore, the study found that four eruptive CMEs from closed regions had high free magnetic energies of at least 300 decillion ergs. In general, CMEs in closed-field regions exhibited lower kinetic energies, given that part of the CME energy was expended to overcome magnetic tension and break open the overlying field.

Summing up the results, the authors of the paper note how their research improves our understanding regarding the occurrence of CMEs on stars like AB Dor.

"Our work explains how eruptive CMEs such as those observed by Veronig et al. (2021) may occur even in stars such as AB Dor whose strong overlying magnetic fields should lead to more confined CMEs," the researchers conclude.

More information: K. Markus Strickert et al, High-latitude coronal mass ejections on the young solar-like star AB Dor, arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2408.00637 Journal information: arXiv

 2024 Science X Network
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Australian Institute of Marine Science

Most of the underwater surveys contributing to these findings, published today, were conducted before and during the recent mass bleaching event, one of the most extensive and serious on record, and have not yet captured how many corals survived or died following the bleaching.

Surveys in the Central region were also completed before the passage of tropical Cyclone Jasper in December 2023.

AIMS' Long-Term Monitoring Program (LTMP) leader Dr. Mike Emslie said coral cover increases were a positive sign but did not reflect the potentially destructive consequences of the 2024 mass bleaching event.

"We saw evidence of early onset mortality, particularly in the Southern region, but the full picture of mortality was not yet apparent during this year's surveys," he said.

"While bleached corals are very stressed, they are still alive and are recorded as live coral on our surveys.

"Some types of corals can remain bleached for months, remaining on a knife edge between survival and death. This is why returning and repeating surveys of the reefs in this vast, complex and dynamic system is so important. This year's results serve as a very important reference against which to measure the impacts of the summer's events."

The next (LTMP) survey season recommences in September and will capture impacts on coral cover from this summer's mass bleaching event and the cyclones, with a full assessment complete by mid-2025.

"Climate change remains the greatest threat to the Reef because it drives these mass bleaching events. This most recent one was the fifth such event since 2016. These more frequent and extensive marine heat waves will lead to shortened 'windows' for coral recovery. Recent gains, while encouraging, can be lost in a short amount of time," Dr. Emslie said.

Surveys were conducted at 94 Reefs spread through the Northern, Central and Southern Great Barrier Reef between August 2023 and June 2024.

The Report recorded the following average hard coral coverage:

Northern region (north of Cooktown)39.5%, up from 35.8% last year;

Central region (Cooktown to Proserpine)34%, up from 30.7%;

Southern region (south of Proserpine)39.1%, up from 34%.

The AIMS report finds that small rises in coral cover this year brought the Northern and Central regions to their highest levels in 38 years of monitoring.

The surveys also found that crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks have persisted on some reefs in the Southern region.

The long term monitoring team surveyed reefs off Townsville after the passage of tropical Cyclone Kirrily in late January, finding evidence of storm damage and declines in hard coral cover ranging from 6% to 10% at Kelso, John Brewer, Helix and Chicken Reefs. Other reefs appear to have escaped with little impact.

AIMS Research Program Director Dr. David Wachenfeld said the regional increases in coral cover are encouraging, showing the Reef's capacity for recovery after reaching their lowest levels within the last 15 years. However, climate change and other disturbances mean this recovery is fragile and Reef resilience is not limitless.

"In many ways the Reef has had some lucky escapes in recent years. The 2020 and 2022 mass bleaching events had levels of heat stress that were not as intense as the 2016 and 2017 events or the 2024 event. Coupled with very few other events causing widespread coral death, that has led to the levels of coral cover increase we have seen," he said.

"But the frequency and intensity of bleaching events is unprecedented, and that is only forecast to escalate under climate change, alongside the persistent threat of crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks and tropical cyclones."

Aerial surveys undertaken by AIMS and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority in February and March found bleached corals in the shallows of 73% of reefs surveyed across all three regions.

In recent weeks, AIMS scientists in separate monitoring programs observed substantial mortality in reefs that were particularly hard hit by the 2024 event.

"We are only one large scale disturbance event away from a reversal of the recent recovery. The 2024 bleaching event could be that eventalmost half of the 3000 or so reefs that make up the marine park experienced more heat stress than ever recorded," Dr. Wachenfeld said.

"We still don't know how much mortality this event has caused. Our monitoring over the next 12 months will help us to understand how this bleaching event stacks up against the others in the last decade."

AIMS CEO Professor Selina Stead said AIMS was prioritizing research to develop scientific solutions to boost reef resilience under a warming climate.

"Climate change is increasing pressure on reef systems around the world," she said. "The 2024 bleaching event was part of the fourth global bleaching event, announced in April.

"These vitally important ecosystems that millions rely upon need strong greenhouse gas emissions reduction, science-based management of local pressures, and input from multiple fields of research if they are to endure.

"At AIMS we are developing a toolbox of interventions to help reefs adapt to and recover from the effects of climate change."

More information: Long-Term Monitoring Program Annual Summary Report of Coral Reef Condition 2023/24, www.aims.gov.au/monitoring-gre  tion-summary-2023-24
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Scientists from China Agricultural University reconstructed long-term backscatter coefficient to investigate three-dimensional urbanization. Credit: Xuecao Li, China Agricultural University

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) is a type of remote sensing from satellites that uses the reflection of radio waves to relay information about the surface of the earth. This reflection, or backscatter, is responsive to physical properties, such as roughness, vertical structure, and moisture. SAR is widely used for different types of mapping and monitoring, but signal interference in urban environments can cause distortions that make SAR data difficult to interpret.

By combining optical signals with historical SAR backscatter coefficient data, SAR data can be refined and used to monitor changes to an urban environment over time. This reconstruction technique was described in a paper published in the Journal of Remote Sensing on 23 July.

"We set out to fill the knowledge gaps in the reconstruction of long-term backscatter coefficient data. This study developed a method that would reconstruct the data over the past three decades (1990 through 2022) based on Sentinel-1 Ground Range Detected data and long-term Landsat data in the Jing-Jin-Ji region. This could significantly support three-dimensional dynamics in urban domains," said Xuecao Li, a professor at the College of Land Science and Technology at the China Agricultural University in Beijing, China.

Researchers chose the Jing-Jin-Ji region of China, which includes Beijing and Tianjin and 11 major cities, to test their reconstruction technique because this part of China has changed drastically over the past 40 years due to rapid urbanization. They developed a building height model based on reference building heights in seven cities.

To understand the relationship between the backscatter coefficient of Sentinel-1 and optical Landsat images, researchers used a regression model and then expanded it to cover the entire region.

The trained model was able to successfully map the optical data over the long-time backscatter coefficient. The success of this technique was clear when it was used to estimate changing building height.

When the historical backscatter coefficient data was used to estimate building heights, the data was able to accurately capture nuances in the changing urban landscape of Beijing. It was able to accurately depict areas of rapid construction in the urban core of Beijing and in the Haidian and Chaoyang neighborhoods where average building height increased between 1990 and 2000. It also accurately mapped the increased building height in the outer areas of Beijing in the following decades.

"Overall, our results suggest that the estimated backscatter coefficient has a promising potential for exploring urban expansion in the vertical dimension," said Li.

"In addition to estimating building height, the long-term and high-resolution backscatter coefficient also has promising potential for urban studies regarding impervious surface classification, change detection, and flood extent mapping. The proposed approach in this study allows researchers to estimate the backscatter with finer resolutions for decades regarding seasonal or monthly changes."

Looking ahead, researchers hope to apply what they learned through this study on a global scale.

"The estimated building height in the Jing-Jin-Ji region can be further used for investigating the urban environmental issues regarding the 3D perspective, such as the urban heat island, dynamic building height, and carbon emissions, which are expected to provide useful information for achieving sustainable development goals," said Li.

Other contributors include Bo Yuan at Tarim University; Guojiang Yu at China Agricultural University; Linze Li at China Three Gorges Corporation; Donglie Liu at the Natural Resources Satellite Remote Sensing Application Center; Jincheng Guo at the Guizhou First Surveying and Mapping Institute; and Yangchun Li at the Guizhou Geological Environment Monitoring Institute.

More information: Bo Yuan et al, Reconstructing Long-Term Synthetic Aperture Radar Backscatter in Urban Domains Using Landsat Time Series Data: A Case Study of JingJinJi Region, Journal of Remote Sensing (2024). DOI: 10.34133/remotesensing.0172

Provided by Journal of Remote Sensing
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A year ago, economics professor Kaushik Basu was in his office hosting a colleague from Sweden, mapping ideas out on a blackboard.

Among those ideas: Can an increase in knowledge ever be a bad thing? They theorized that yes, it couldwhen people use it to act in their own self-interest rather than in the best interests of the larger group.

"We were standing in front of a blackboard talking about different themes in game theory and Kaushik, chalk in hand, drew up a striking example of the phenomenon," said Jorgen Weibull, professor emeritus at the Stockholm School of Economics.

Even for a group of rational individuals, greater knowledge can backfire. And, they said, enhanced knowledge about an existing realitysuch as the cost-benefit of wearing a face mask to help prevent the spread of diseasemay hinder cooperation among purely self-interested individuals.

"We assume that a scientific breakthrough that gives us a deeper understanding of the world can only help," said Basu, the Carl Marks Professor of International Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences and the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business. "Our paper shows that in the real world, where many people live and strive individually or in small groups to do well for themselves, this intuition may not hold. Science may not be the panacea we take it to be."

Basu and Weibull are co-authors of "A Knowledge Curse: How Knowledge Can Reduce Human Welfare," published Aug. 7 in Royal Society Open Science.

Their paper bounces through history like gravitational waves. From Robert Oppenheimer's dread following the first atomic bomb test, to 17th-century astronomer Galileo's studies of the moon, to the classic theoretical game Prisoner's Dilemma, to the famous 1990 tapper-listener experiment by then-Stanford graduate student Elizabeth Newton, Basu and Weibull build the casewith modeling in a theoretical two-player Base Gamethat the "knowledge curse" can happen if, at first, only a few people are privy to the greater knowledge.

In the Base Game, each player has two actions to choose from. Hence, there are four combinations of actions, each with expected payoffs to both players. Each player chooses so as to maximize their own payoff.

However, if another set of options is added that introduces the chance that the other player would get nothing, along with an option of a very small payoff for both, the mutual small reward becomes more appealinga form of the Prisoner's Dilemma, in which two "prisoners" can either cooperate for mutual benefit, or betray their partner for individual reward. In other words, more "knowledge" can lead to worse overall outcomes.

The paper however goes further, and shows that a scientific breakthrough that does not add any new option but simply deepens the players' understanding of the payoffs and their fluctuations can make the players worse off.

The authors extend their theoretical calculations into real-world dilemmas, such as crafting policy without knowing the full contours of a problem. The drafting of a nation's constitution, for instance, must anticipate and address problems likely to occur well into a future with unknowable sets of circumstances. "Such preemptive laws have conferred large benefits to humankind," the authors wrote.

The authors make the case that just because a bad situation is human-caused doesn't mean it can be prevented.

"Game theory is a reminder," they wrote, "that when a group of people interact, and each person is held responsible for her actions, we cannot always carry this logic over to the group, holding the group responsible for the combined action profile that the group 'chooses." As analysts, we have to design rules to guard against the adversities."

At the end of a highly theoretical exercise, Basu offers a concrete takeaway to their work, the seeds of which were planted in front of a blackboard.

"By drawing attention to this paradoxical result," he said, "the paper urges policymakers and even the lay person to think of preemptive actions, agreements and moral commitments that we as human beings should take and make to avert disasters that future scientific advances can cause.

"Science can yield huge benefits, but we need safeguards," he said. "What those are, we do not know. But the paper urges us to pay attention to this."

More information: Kaushik Basu et al, A knowledge curse: how knowledge can reduce human welfare, Royal Society Open Science (2024). DOI: 10.1098/rsos.240358 Journal information: Royal Society Open Science
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Hamdi Zurqani, assistant professor for the College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Arkansas at Monticello and researcher with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, developed the first high-resolution forest canopy cover dataset for an entire state, providing valuable insights for forest management and conservation to a major economic sector in Arkansas. Credit: College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Arkansas at Monticello / Lonnie Tegels

An Arkansas researcher has developed the first high-resolution forest canopy cover dataset for an entire state, providing valuable insights for forest management and conservation to a major economic sector in Arkansas.

"I had this vision of creating something that we can rely on," said Hamdi Zurqani, assistant professor for the College of Forestry, Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Arkansas at Monticello and researcher with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. "No data of this kind existed before for an entire state. Usually, people only create similar data for site-specific projects."

The 1-meter measurements are unique. Until now, the most common forest measurements and datasets have come from satellite imagery at 30-meter spatial resolution, said Zurqani, who conducts research as part of the Arkansas Forest Resources Center, a partnership between the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and UAM. The experiment station is the research arm of the Division of Agriculture.

Forest canopy cover measures the coverage of tree crowns from an aerial view. It shows how much a forest's uppermost layer of branches, leaves and vegetation forms a continuous cover over the ground. This detailed information is crucial for tracking forest health, as canopy cover is essential for carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat and water regulation.

Zurqani says accurate mapping of tree coverage helps scientists monitor and manage forest resources effectively, ensuring the sustainability of these ecosystems. This information can also assist with wildfire risk assessments, tracking forest health threats from pests and climate, and urban planning.

Zurqani's research was published in the journal Remote Sensing Applications: Society and Environment. The article was titled "High-resolution forest canopy cover estimation in eco-diverse landscape using machine learning and Google Earth Engine: Validity and reliability assessment."

According to the latest Arkansas Agricultural Profile, forests cover 57% of the state, and timber was one of the state's top commodities in 2021 with about $409 million in cash farm receipts.

Forest cover at the Livestock and Forestry Research Station in Batesville. Credit: U of A System Division of Ag / Ben Aaron

Machine learning

To create the Arkansas forest canopy cover dataset, Zurqani used machine learning techniques and the Google Earth Engine.

Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that allows computers to "learn" from data and improve their performance over time without being programmed. Machine learning algorithms identify patterns in data, make predictions and adapt to new information.

The Google Earth Engine is a cloud-based platform designed for processing and analyzing large-scale geospatial data. It provides access to a vast repository of satellite imagery and geospatial datasets.

Zurqani's research utilized high-resolution National Agriculture Imagery Program aerial imagery to apply and test his methods.

The National Agriculture Imagery Program, administered by the United States Department of Agriculture, captures high-resolution aerial imagery of agricultural areas during the growing season. The imagery is used for monitoring crop conditions, assessing land use changes, and supporting various agricultural and environmental applications.

Room for growth

A finer spatial resolution of Arkansas forests provides a more accurate assessment of canopy structure and composition. Zurqani says this precision is essential for monitoring changes in forest dynamics, identifying vulnerable areas and implementing targeted conservation strategies. Zurqani hopes his 1-meter dataset could become the new standard for measuring forest canopy cover.

"So, in the future, we can use this dataset to cover all forest areas and see which trees are healthy and which ones are diseased," Zurqani said. "Because it's high-resolution imagery, we can detect the location of the trees within urban areas."

There are 502 cities and 75 counties in Arkansas, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and Zurqani said he evaluated forests and tree-covered areas within those cities and counties. While initially focused on the state of Arkansas, Zurqani envisions expanding this innovative approach to cover all 50 states.

"The studies demonstrate that machine learning and cloud computing technologies can produce reliable, high-resolution forest cover datasets," Zurqani said. "These methods can be applied to other regions globally, enhancing forest management and conservation efforts worldwide."

More information: Hamdi A. Zurqani, High-resolution forest canopy cover estimation in ecodiverse landscape using machine learning and Google Earth Engine: Validity and reliability assessment, Remote Sensing Applications: Society and Environment (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.rsase.2023.101095
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Look closely at the pictures of the violent unrest that has spread across England and Northern Ireland and you will notice something that is not being spoken about. The rioters seen fighting, attacking police and setting fire to buildings are often middle agedpeople in their 40s, 50s and 60s, screaming racist abuse and fighting with police.

Of the 11 people arrested in Sunderland on August 3, four fit this demographic. One of the people arrested and charged was a 69-year-old male pensioner.

The radicalization of middle-aged people is an emerging but overlooked phenomenon that has been brought to the fore by these riots, potentially because of the apparent link to the spread of misinformation online. As my ongoing research is finding, this group is vulnerable to being misled by fake news and conspiracy theories.

Middle-aged people are often bundled in with the "over 50s" as a group, which includes the very olda demographic with whom they have little in common. The middle aged are not "digital natives" but they are online. And, crucially, they may actually be less informed about the dangers of online misinformation than younger people because they have not been the target of education in the same way. These days, significant effort is put in to educating young people about how to navigate the online world safely, but middle-aged people missed the boat.

The middle-aged were introduced to the internet as adults and their understanding of the online sphere is largely self-taught and self-regulated. As a result, they can be poor decision makers when it comes to what to consume and what to believe. This exposure may lead people to make significant decisions, such as heading out to take part in violent unrest or attacking a mosque or a hotel housing asylum seekers, based on flawed or dishonest information that they have gathered on the internet.

When a group attacked a mosque in Southport their actions appeared to be based on the false idea that three children killed in the area the day previously had been attacked by a Muslim or an immigrant. In truth, the young man in custody over the attack is neither. Online misinformation and even disinformation therefore appear to have played a part.

An overlooked group

Our need to understand this middle-aged group and their vulnerability to extremism through social media was the driving force behind an EU-funded research project, currently in its second year. For the first time, researchers from across Europe are looking at people in their 40s to mid-60s to uncover what characteristics of social media and online content encourage them to go down the rabbit hole to extremism.

Older people are more likely to be politically engaged and are more likely to vote. And of this group, the roughly middle-aged portion are the most engaged. They are therefore influential. They also often have strong political views.

But this group is somewhat invisible. People don't tend to think of them first when we talk about the housing crisis, the cost of living or the NHS. Young people have long been the target and focus of much of mainstream media and commerce, which has only accelerated since the advent of the internet. Adverts almost exclusively use young people to promote goods, to take one example. It's rare to see older people advertising anything that is not directly targeted to them. Despite their financial weight, products are not generally marketed to middle-aged people.

A whole swath of people are therefore being culturally excluded or sidelined. Because of this youth focus across all aspects of society, we don't think of the middle-aged to be first in line to be radicalized online either. We have a tendency to picture young, impressionable people being led astray. Some were therefore surprised to see so many older people in the marauding crowds that have caused so much damage in England and Northern Ireland.

When groups of any kind are ignored, their feelings of exclusion and isolation make the fringes of the internet more appealing. Here, disgruntlement is fed and encouraged. People are invited to express their anger as they engage with peers of a similar age and socio-economic group.

They may seek recognition and influence by sharing content found in online forums and social media groups, or they may create it themselves. This content highlights their worldview or opinion, but is often backed up with spurious claims and pseudoscience. Despite this, their words are seen as legitimate by others with the same or similar viewpoint (their peers) and by younger people who respect their life experiences and are swayed by the apparent sincerity of their beliefs.

The middle-aged are generally invisible in the media and wider society, which means that they can encourage others to engage from the sidelines, while staying significantly below the radar of researchers and others who are trying to understand the growth of extremism online. This raises concerns about the absence of targeted strategies and narratives to address the involvement of the middle-aged in extremist activities.

The nature of the internet is that it contains "greased data"information that moves quickly and is hard to hold on to, which ends up in all sorts of places, reaching all sorts of people. It is almost impossible to prevent the spread of untruths and misinformation. The viral nature of misinformation and propaganda, which is emotionally charged and sensationalist, makes it more likely to be shared.

In the hands of a group of people that has influence but may not be equipped with the skills of a digital nativeand that flies under the radar among authorities who are concerned about radicalizationthis information can be potentially dangerous, as is being illustrated on Britain's streets.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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A final decision on whether to persist with Starliner -- seen here docked with the ISS -- is expected later this month, officials said.

What was meant to be a weeklong trip to the International Space Station (ISS) for the first NASA astronauts to fly with Boeing could extend to eight months, with the agency considering bringing them home on a SpaceX spaceship.

A final decision on whether to persist with Boeing's troubled Starlinerwhich experienced worrying propulsion issues as it flew up to the orbital platform in Juneis expected later this month, officials said Wednesday in a call with reporters.

Detailed planning is already underway with Boeing's rival SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, to potentially launch their scheduled Crew-9 mission on September 24 with just two astronauts rather than the usual four.

The Crew Dragon capsule would then be able to return to Earth with Starliner's crew of Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams in February 2025in what would amount to a major embarrassment for aerospace giant Boeing.

In this scenario, Starliner would fly back without crew before Crew-9 launches.

Steve Stich, program manager for NASA's Commercial Crew Program, revealed that there had been intense discussions on the best way forward, with Boeing expressing confidence in its spacecraft after carrying out ground testing to replicate the technical issues seen in space.

"I think the NASA community in general would like to understand a little bit more of the root cause and the physics," he said.

Notably absent from the briefing were representatives from Boeing, heightening the perception of a rift.

On August 2, the company released a blog update stating it "remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew."

Design flaws

NASA and Boeing have been conducting tests at the White Sands Testing Facility in New Mexico to better understand why some of Starliner's thrusters experienced a loss of power as it approached the ISS, and why it sprung several leaks of helium, used to pressurize the propulsion system.

Stich said the latest analysis of why the thrusters failed pointed to the flow of fuel being choked within a "poppet" valve, as well as overheating causing some fuel to vaporize.

Officials previously said the helium leaks might be due to the use of undersized seals.

NASA's Ken Bowersox, associate administrator for NASA's Space Operations Mission Directorate, insisted that returning with Starliner remained the "prime option."

However, if Wilmore and Williams return with SpaceX, it would mark the biggest setback to date for Boeing's space program, as the century-old company continues to reel from the safety crisis affecting its commercial jets.

Both Boeing and SpaceX were awarded multibillion-dollar contracts in 2014 to provide the US space agency with rides to the ISS following the end of the space shuttle program in 2011, which left the United States reliant on Russian Soyuz rockets to ferry its crew.

SpaceX succeeded in its first crewed test in 2020 and has carried dozens of people since.

Boeing's program, by contrast, has faced numerous delays amid setbacks ranging from a software bug that put the spaceship on a bad trajectory on its first uncrewed test, to the discovery that the cabin was filled with flammable electrical tape after the second.

The crewed test itself experienced two aborted launch attempts that came as the astronauts were strapped in and ready for liftoff.

 2024 AFP
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz joined in on the JD Vance couch memes that have taken the internet by storm during his rally appearance Tuesday.

The newly announced Democratic Vice Presidential Candidate joined Kamala Harris at their first joint rally, where Walz said he "can't wait" to debate his Republican challenger.

"I can't wait to debate JD Vance. That is, if he's willing to get off the couch and show up," Walz said, referencing the meme.

Gov. Walz: I can't wait to debate JD Vance. That is, if he's willing to get off the couch and show up pic.twitter.com/YijZfjca0O  Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) August 6, 2024

The debunked rumor, which spread virally after Vance was picked as former President Donald Trump's running mate, claimed the "Hillbilly Elegy" author enjoyed having sex with couches. Google searches for "JD Vance, couch" skyrocketed and numerous memes and photos of couches and Vance circulated on social.

Walz acknowledgement of the meme on Tuesday immediately sparked social media attention and praise from supporters.
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Left: The magnetic field of Jupiter provides insight into its interior composition, structure, dynamics, and even its evolutionary history. Right: Image of the first prototype 4H-SiC solid-state magnetometer sensor die (2mm by 2mm) developed by NASA-GRC. Each gold rectangle or square on the surface represents an individual sensor, the smallest being 10 microns by 10 microns. Credit: NASA

Magnetic fields are everywhere in our solar system. They originate from the sun, planets, and moons, and are carried throughout interplanetary space by solar wind. This is precisely why magnetometersdevices used to measure magnetic fieldsare flown on almost all missions in space to benefit the Earth, planetary, and heliophysics science communities, and ultimately enrich knowledge for all humankind.

These instruments can remotely probe the interior of a planetary body to provide insight into its internal composition, structure, dynamics, and even evolution based on the magnetic history frozen into the body's crustal rock layers.

Magnetometers can even discover hidden oceans within our solar system and help determine their salinity, thereby providing insight into the potential habitability of these icy worlds.

Fluxgates are the most widely used magnetometers for missions in space due to their proven performance and simplicity. However, the conventional size, weight, and power (SWaP) of fluxgate instruments can restrict them from being used on small platforms like CubeSats and sometimes limit the number of sensors that can be used on a spacecraft for inter-sensor calibration, redundancy, and spacecraft magnetic field removal.

Traditionally, a long boom is used to distance the fluxgate magnetometers from the contaminate magnetic field generated by the spacecraft, itself, and at least two sensors are used to characterize the falloff of this field contribution so it can be removed from the measurements. Fluxgates also do not provide an absolute measurement, meaning that they need to be routinely calibrated in space through spacecraft rolls, which can be time and resource intensive.

A team at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California has partnered with NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio to prototype a new magnetometer called the silicon carbide (SiC) magnetometer, or SiCMag, that could change the way magnetic fields are measured in space.

SiCMag uses a solid-state sensor made of a silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductor. Inside the SiC sensor are quantum centersintentionally introduced defects or irregularities at an atomic scalethat give rise to a magnetoresistance signal that can be detected by monitoring changes in the sensor's electrical current, which indicate changes in the strength and direction of the external magnetic field.

This new technology has the potential to be incredibly sensitive, and due to its large bandgap (i.e., the energy required to free an electron from its bound state so it can participate in electrical conduction), is capable of operating in the wide range of temperature extremes and harsh radiation environments commonly encountered in space.

Team member David Spry of NASA Glenn indicates, "Not only is the SiC material great for magnetic field sensing, but here at NASA Glenn we're further developing robust SiC electronics that operate in hot environments far beyond the upper temperature limitations of silicon electronics. These SiC-based technologies will someday enable long-duration robotic scientific exploration of the 460C Venus surface."

SiCMag is also very small the sensor area is only 0.1 x 0.1 mm and the compensation coils are smaller than a penny. Consequently, dozens of SiCMag sensors can easily be incorporated on a spacecraft to better remove the complex contaminate magnetic field generated by the spacecraft, reducing the need for a long boom to distance the sensors from the spacecraft, as implemented on most spacecraft, including Psyche (see figure below).

The magnetic field lines associated with the Psyche spacecraft, modeled from more than 200 individual magnetic sources. Removing this magnetic field contribution from the measurements conventionally requires the use of two fluxgate sensors on a long boom. Incorporating 4 or more SiCMag sensors in such a scenario would significantly reduce the size of the boom required, or even remove the need for a boom completely. Credit: Adapted from https://science.nasa.gov/resource/magnetic-field-of-the-psyche-spacecraft/

SiCMag has several advantages when compared to fluxgates and other types of heritage magnetometers, including those based on optically pumped atomic vapor. SiCMag is a simple instrument that doesn't rely on optics or high-frequency components, which are sensitive to temperature variations.

SiCMag's low SWaP also allows for accommodation on small platforms such as CubeSats, enabling simultaneous spatial and temporal magnetic field measurements not possible with single large-scale spacecraft. This capability will enable planetary magnetic field mapping and space weather monitoring by constellations of CubeSats.

Multiplatform measurements would also be very valuable on the surface of the moon and Mars for crustal magnetic field mapping, composition identification, and magnetic history investigation of these bodies.

SiCMag has a true zero-field magnetic sensing ability (i.e., SiCMag can measure extremely weak magnetic fields), which is unattainable with most conventional atomic vapor magnetometers due to the requisite minimum magnetic field needed for the sensor to operate. And because the spin-carrying electrons in SiCMag are tied up in the quantum centers, they won't escape the sensor, meaning they are well-suited for decades-long journeys to the ice-giants or to the edges of the heliosphere.

This capability is also an advantage of SiCMag's optical equivalent sibling, OPuS-MAGNM, an optically pumped solid state quantum magnetometer developed by Hannes Kraus and matured by Andreas Gottscholl of the JPL solid-state magnetometry group. SiCMag has the advantage of being extremely simple, while OPuS-MAGNM promises to have lower noise characteristics, but uses complex optical components.

According to Dr. Andreas Gottscholl, "SiCMag and OPuS-MAGNM are very similar, actually. Progress in one sensor system translates directly into benefits for the other. Therefore, enhancements in design and electronics advance both projects, effectively doubling the impact of our efforts while we are still flexible for different applications."

SiCMag has the ability to self-calibrate due to its absolute sensing capability, which is a significant advantage in the remote space environment. SiCMag uses a spectroscopic calibration technique that atomic vapor magnetometers also leverage called magnetic resonance (in the case of SiCMag, the magnetic resonance is electrically detected) to measure the precession frequency of electrons associated with the quantum centers, which is directly related to the magnetic field in which the sensor is immersed.

This relationship is a fundamental physical constant in nature that doesn't change as a function of time or temperature, making the response ideal for calibration of the sensor's measurements.

"If we are successful in achieving the sought-out sensitivity improvement we anticipate using isotopically purer materials, SiC could change the way magnetometry is typically performed in space due to the instrument's attractive SWaP, robustness, and self-calibration ability," says JPL's Dr. Corey Cochrane, principal investigator of the SiCMag technology.

NASA has been funding this team's solid-state quantum magnetometer sensor research through its PICASSO (Planetary Instrument Concepts for the Advancement of Solar System Observations) program since 2016.

A variety of domestic partners from industry and academia also support this research, including NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Penn State University, University of Iowa, QuantCAD LLC, as well as international partners such as Japan's Quantum Materials and Applications Research Center (QUARC) and Infineon Technologies.

Provided by NASA
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Structural comparison of the ARP module of human TIP60 and yeast NuA4. Superposition of the ARP modules of TIP60 (brown) and NuA4 (beige). Credit: Science (2024). DOI: 10.1126/science.adl5816

To transcribe the information contained in our genes or to repair the dozens of breaks that occur daily in our DNA, our enzymes must be able to directly access the DNA to perform their functions. However, in the cell nucleus, this access is limited because the DNA strands are often tightly coiled and packed around proteins like threads around spools.

Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), UC Berkeley, the Institute for Systems Biology, and Universite Laval now have a better understanding of the protein complex that creates access to packed DNA, TIP60.

Knowing the detailed structure and behavior of TIP60 could provide insight into different diseases where the protein complex plays a role, such as Alzheimer's and various cancers. The work was reported in the journal Science on August 1.

"This collaborative work brings together structure and functional assays in a powerful way to inform us on how this complex macromolecular assembly carries out its job to regulate the reading of our genome," said Eva Nogales, a senior faculty scientist at Berkeley Lab, UC Berkeley professor, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator.

"The structure of the human TIP60 reveals how evolution has led to the merging of two distinct molecular functions into a single complex, readjusting the way structural modules come together to fit its dual functionality."

The researchers were able to study the structure of this complex, which is made up of 17 proteins, and the interactions between its components. They used several approaches, including high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy at the Nogales lab at UC Berkeley. This technology, which earned three scientists the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2017, allows scientists to see the structure of proteins at the atomic scale.

"High-resolution cryo-electron microscopy makes it possible to study the molecular structure of complex biological systems such as proteins, something that no other method has previously allowed," explained Jacques Cote, professor at the Faculty of Medicine at Universite Laval, researcher at the CHU de Quebec-Universite Laval Research Center, and co-leader of the study.

To shed light on the structure of TIP60, Nogales and her team at Berkeley Lab and UC Berkeley purified and studied samples prepared by the Cote group. "Professor Nogales not only has access to the specialized equipment required to perform this type of analysis, but her expertise in high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy is recognized worldwide," he said.

TIP60 malfunction is associated with several types of cancer, including colon, lung, breast, pancreatic, stomach, and metastatic melanoma. It is also associated with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's.

"When access to DNA is restricted, the enzymes that repair DNA breaks cannot function, and significant cellular damage can occur," Cote said. "The same problem can occur with tumor suppressor genes. For them to be expressed, TIP60 must be able to create an opening into the DNA."

Cote said that a good understanding of the structure of TIP60 is essential if we hope to develop new targeted therapies for diseases associated with low levels of TIP60, including Alzheimer's.

"For these diseases, we could develop molecules that bind to the active sites of TIP60 in order to activate it," Cote said.

He added that for cancers, administering TIP60 inhibitors to affected tissues could perhaps locally slow the multiplication of cancer cells.

"For the moment, there are no good TIP60 inhibitors," he said. "Now that the structure of this complex is known, we hope that things will get moving."

More information: Zhenlin Yang et al, Structural insights into the human NuA4/TIP60 acetyltransferase and chromatin remodeling complex, Science (2024). DOI: 10.1126/science.adl5816 Journal information: Science
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Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin are developing ways to track forever chemical pollutants in waterways. Credit: Jackson School of Geosciences/University of Texas Institute for Geophysics

Organofluorine compoundssometimes called "forever chemicals"are increasingly turning up in our drinking water, oceans and even human blood, posing a potential threat to the environment and human health.

Now, researchers at The University of Texas at Austin have developed a way to fingerprint them, which could help authorities trace them to their source when they end up in aquifers, waterways or soil.

The technique involves passing samples through a strong magnetic field, then reading the burst of radio waves their atoms emit. This reveals the composition of carbon isotopes in the molecule and gives the chemical its fingerprint, a feat that had not previously been achieved with forever chemicals.

The work is important because it allows scientists to track the spread of forever chemicals in the environment, said Cornelia Rasmussen, a research assistant professor at the University of Texas Institute for Geophysics at the Jackson School of Geosciences.

"Ultimately we will be able to trace molecules and see how they move," said Rasmussen, who co-led development of the technique. "For example, whether they just stay where they got dumped or whether they're moving downstream."

The new technique was described in a paper published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.

The super strong molecular bonds that give forever chemicals their handy characteristicswhich are put to use in everything from fire retardants to non-stick surfaces and slow-release drugsalso keep them from breaking down in the environment, causing them to build up as pollution in soil and organic material to which they easily stick.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency plans to regulate forever chemicals, which include PFAS, and eliminate most of them from drinking water. However, the molecular bonds of the chemicals also make them difficult to trace. That's because conventional chemical fingerprinting involves breaking molecules apart in a mass spectrometer, which doesn't work well with the tough molecular bonds of forever chemicals.

An illustration of the chemical fingerprinting process at work on a common pesticide. Each peak in the graph indicates a different combination of carbon isotopes bonded to fluorine, as measured by the NMR instrument. The pattern gives the molecule its fingerprint. Credit: Cornelia Rasmussen/Jackson School of Geosciences/University of Texas Institute for Geophysics.

Instead, the researchers turned to a technology called nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, which measures a molecule's structure and identifies its isotopes without breaking it apart.

Isotopes refer to chemical elements with differences in the number of neutrons in their atoms. Forever chemicals are made by bonding carbon isotopes to the element fluorine, which almost never happens in nature. Once the molecular bonds form, they are virtually unbreakable.

The researchers' technique uses the NMR instrument alongside their own computational tools to determine the mix of carbon isotopes at each position in the molecule. Because the mix of carbon isotopes bonding to each fluorine atom is unique to how the chemical was manufactured, this information can be used like a fingerprint to trace a chemical.

It's like a built-in barcode for molecules, said co-author David Hoffman, an associate professor at the Department of Molecular Biosciences in UT's College of Natural Sciences.

"Part of the reason this has worked out so well is because we're assembling tools from different areas of science [chemistry and geosciences] that don't normally mix and using them to do something no one's really done before," he said.

The researchers tested their technique on samples that included pharmaceuticals and a common pesticide. Rasmussen and Hoffman are now conducting a pilot study to see how the technique will fare on pollutants that show up in the city of Austin's creeks and wastewater. If successful, the technique could be useful for state and federal agencies who want to track the spread of water-borne forever chemicals.

Rasmussen said that the work has opened up a new layer of isotope information in organic chemistry that could find many applications beyond tracking forever chemicals, such as detecting counterfeit drugs or astrobiology. Her ultimate goal, however, is to take the technique even further afield.

"It's given us a whole range of possibilities to learn really interesting things about metabolism on early Earth," she said. "It could even tell us whether organics on Mars are the last remnants of some ancient Martian life."

More information: Cornelia Rasmussen et al, Fingerprinting Organofluorine Molecules via Position-Specific Isotope Analysis, Environmental Science & Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c02250 Journal information: Environmental Science & Technology
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The Lesotho Highlands in southern Africa, on the Central Plateau of the Great Escarpment. Credit: Prof Tom Gernon, University of Southampton

Scientists at the University of Southampton have answered one of the most puzzling questions in plate tectonics: how and why "stable" parts of continents gradually rise to form some of the planet's greatest topographic features.

They have found that when tectonic plates break apart, powerful waves are triggered deep within the Earth that can cause continental surfaces to rise by over a kilometer.

Their findings help resolve a long-standing mystery about the dynamic forces that shape and connect some of the Earth's most dramatic landformsexpansive topographic features called 'escarpments' and 'plateaus' that profoundly influence climate and biology.

The new research, led by the University of Southampton, examined the effects of global tectonic forces on landscape evolution over hundreds of millions of years. The findings are published Aug 8 in the journal Nature.

Tom Gernon, Professor of Earth Science at the University of Southampton and lead author of the study said, "Scientists have long suspected that steep kilometer-high topographic features called Great Escarpmentslike the classic example encircling South Africaare formed when continents rift and eventually split apart. However, explaining why the inner parts of continents, far from such escarpments, rise and become eroded has proven much more challenging. Is this process even linked to the formation of these towering escarpments? Put simply, we didn't know."

Drakensberg escarpment in Southern Africa. Credit: Prof Jean Braun, GFZ Potsdam

The vertical motions of the stable parts of continents, called cratons, remain one of the least understood aspects of plate tectonics.

The team from the University of Southampton, including Dr. Thea Hincks, Dr. Derek Keir, and Alice Cunningham, collaborated with colleagues from the Helmholtz Centre PotsdamGFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences and the University of Birmingham to address this fundamental question.

Their results help explain why parts of the continents previously thought of as "stable" experience substantial uplift and erosion, and how such processes can migrate hundreds or even thousands of kilometers inland, forming sweeping elevated regions known as plateaus, like the Central Plateau of South Africa.

Linking diamonds with landscape evolution

Building on their study linking diamond eruptions to continental breakup, published last year in Nature, the team used advanced computer models and statistical methods to interrogate how the Earth's surface has responded to the breakup of continental plates through time.

Drakensberg escarpment in Southern Africa. Credit: Prof Jean Braun, GFZ Potsdam

They discovered that when continents split apart, the stretching of the continental crust causes stirring movements in Earth's mantle (the voluminous layer between the crust and the core).

Professor Sascha Brune, who leads the Geodynamic Modelling Section at GFZ Potsdam, said, "This process can be compared to a sweeping motion that moves towards the continents and disturbs their deep foundations."

Professor Brune and Dr. Anne Glerum, also based at Potsdam, ran simulations to investigate how this process unfolds. The team noticed an interesting pattern: the speed of the mantle "waves" moving under the continents in their simulations closely matched the speed of major erosion events that swept across the landscape in Southern Africa following the breakup of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana.

The scientists pieced together evidence to propose that the Great Escarpments originate at the edges of ancient rift valleys, much like the steep walls seen at the margins of the East African Rift today. Meanwhile, the rifting event also sets about a "deep mantle wave" that travels along the continent's base at about 1520 kilometers per million years.

Drakensberg escarpment in Southern Africa. Credit: Prof Jean Braun, GFZ Potsdam

They believe that this wave convectively removes layers of rock from the continental roots.

"Much like how a hot-air balloon sheds weight to rise higher, this loss of continental material causes the continents to risea process called isostasy," said Professor Brune.

Building on this, the team modeled how landscapes respond to this mantle-driven uplift. They found that migrating mantle instabilities give rise to a wave of surface erosion that lasts tens of millions of years and moves across the continent at a similar speed. This intense erosion removes a huge weight of rock that causes the land surface to rise further, forming elevated plateaus.

"Our landscape evolution models show how a sequence of events linked to rifting can result in an escarpment as well as a stable, flat plateau, even though a layer of several thousands of meters of rocks has been eroded away," explained Jean Braun, Professor of Earth Surface Process Modelling at GFZ Potsdam, also based at the University of Potsdam.

Satellite image of the Great Escarpment from the Sentinel Hub Earth Observation Browser. Taken using the Sentinel-2 L1C dataset, in May 2020. Credit: Prof Tom Gernon, University of Southampton

Satellite image of The Great Escarpment (eastern Lesotho Highlands) from the Sentinel Hub Earth Observation Browser. Taken using the Sentinel-2 L1C dataset, in May 2022. The snow cover picks out the elevated plateau region relative to the lowlands, separated by the Great Escarpment. Credit: Prof Tom Gernon, University of Southampton

The team's study provides a new explanation for the puzzling vertical movements of cratons far from the edges of continents, where uplift is more common.

Dr. Steve Jones, Associate Professor in Earth Systems at the University of Birmingham, added, "What we have here is a compelling argument that rifting can, in certain circumstances, directly generate long-lived continental scale upper mantle convection cells, and these rift-initiated convective systems have a profound effect on Earth's surface topography, erosion, sedimentation and the distribution of natural resources."

The team has concluded that the same chain of mantle disturbances that trigger diamonds to quickly rise from Earth's deep interior also fundamentally shape continental landscapes, influencing a host of factors from regional climates and biodiversity to human settlement patterns.

Professor Gernon, who was awarded a major philanthropic grant from the WoodNext Foundation, administered by Greater Houston Community Foundation, to study global cooling, explained that continental breakup disturbs not only the deep layers of the Earth but also has effects that reverberate across the surface of the continents, previously thought to be stable.

"Destabilizing the cores of the continents must have impacted ancient climates too," concluded Professor Gernon.

More information: Thomas Gernon, Co-evolution of craton margins and interiors during continental break-up, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07717-1. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07717-1 Journal information: Nature
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Alonso Correa, of Peru, paddles back out to the lineup as the sun rises over a protected marine reserve, or rahui, behind, during a training session before the 2024 Summer Olympics surfing competition, Tuesday, July 23, 2024, in Teahupo'o, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

During their days on Tahiti's turquoise ocean some years ago, fishers noticed their catchesand the fish insidewere getting smaller.

With fishing being a vital part of the ways of Polynesian life, local leader Dominique Tehei, 51, and his fellow community members knew they needed to find a way to restore the ecosystem. They decided there was a customary Polynesian practice that could help them do it: creating a rahui.

The traditional conservation method of regulating human activity to help replenish and protect maritime ecosystems resources is being revived and showing results in Tahiti, including the area near the Paris Olympics surfing venue. While local communities and leaders acknowledge that rahui aren't a one-stop solution to all environmental issues, they're working with researchers and scientists to help strengthen the ground-up, community-based approach.

For centuries, rahui have been implemented in the French Polynesian islands, Hawaii and New Zealand, temporarily banning or restricting the harvesting of natural resources in designated areas, said Hunter Lenihan, an ecologist and co-director of the Rahui Forum and Resource Center headquartered in Moorea, Tahiti.

Max Brown, center, films underwater during a tour with other snorkelers to a local marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tiahura, on the island of Moorea, in Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

"(The practice) was squashed by colonizers," said Lenihan, "but ... is going through a revival that began intensively about a decade ago."

While the most common form of rahui is a no-fishing zone placed in a lagoon or offshorelike a marine reserverahui have also been established in local creeks and rivers in the form of planting taro crops to capture sediment from agriculture or other development before it flows into the ocean and harmfully settles onto reefs.

Even in the no-fishing zones, rules can vary based on the area's needs. Sometimes, fishing is only permitted during a certain season. Other times, only certain methods like line or spear fishing are permitted, forbidding the use of nets or cages. In some rahui, fishing and swimming is prohibited entirely, protecting some areas from tourism overdevelopment.

Laurence Taaitoa, 6, swims in a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tautira, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Decisions on where, how and when to establish a rahui are made and managed by community leaders.

In the years leading up to the 2019 establishment of the rahui in Teva I Uta, where Tehei lives, Tehei said he and other conservationists initially had a hard time convincing villagers that a rahui would be a good idea.

"Fishing is what provides resource money and food," said Tehei. "They were afraid of not being able to access it when they were in the most need. So of course they were a little nervous about that."

Going home to home, Tehei said they were able to convince villagers to allow certain sections of the reef and surrounding areas to be closed for two years at a time, leaving other sections still open for fishing activities.

Tehei hasn't been alone in his advocacy efforts for establishing rahui across Tahiti.

Ruben, a fisherman who gave only his first name, reaches for a fish caught in his net in a lagoon outside of a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tautira, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Members from the Rahui Forum and Resource Center visit and discuss with communities across Tahiti to help learn why they want to establish a rahui, then connect them with local nongovernmental organizations and community leaders who can help with the establishment process.

"The system is built from ground up," said Lenihan.

Community leaders and government officials have also led information campaigns, with billboards and posters about rahui being posted across church, schools and town halls across Tahiti.

There are now dozens of rahui across Tahiti, including in Teahupo'o, where surfers went head-to-head in the Paris Olympics surfing competition.

Signs mark their presence, informing visitors of regulations and penalties for violating them. Locals relaxing on the beach or working in tourism can point out buoys in the water marking the rahui zones while explaining how important they are for the community's conservation efforts.

Ruben, a fisherman who gave only his first name, removes a fish from his net in a lagoon outside of a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tautira, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Acceptance of rahui has blossomed as well: A 2019 study by the Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy Project found that 90% of inhabitants in French Polynesia support rahui, much higher than the support for other legal conservation methods like protected marine areas. Rahui have been legally recognized in the French Polynesia environmental code since 2016.

But Tehei acknowledged the rahui system isn't perfect: Sometimes, it's hard to monitor the entire area, especially during new moons when it's darker outside. Other times, they've had to open a rahui before the ecosystem had a chance to fully recover, as part of their timeline promises to fishers. A lack of management during the opening of one rahui led to overfishing, he said.

"We didn't have an eye on who was going on the reef and unfortunately I would say within three weeks after the reopening ... the whole island came. We had 30 boats fishing," he said. "It was a total disaster."

Ruben, a fisherman who gave only his first name, removes fish from his net in a lagoon outside of a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tautira, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

A snorkeler swims with a ray at a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tiahura, on the island of Moorea, in Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

A blacktip reef shark swims at a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tiahura, on the island of Moorea, in Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Snorkelers swim with rays at a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tiahura, on the island of Moorea, in Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

People take a boat out into a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Papara, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Ruben, a fisherman who gave only his first name, picks up a net after fishing in a lagoon outside of a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tautira, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Ruben, a fisherman who gave only his first name, sets up his net in a lagoon outside of a marine reserve, or rahuri, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, near Tautira, Tahiti. Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Tehei said despite the setbacks, they're still continuing to promote and monitor different ways to improve their rahui practices, including working with the local government to help create a fishing registration system that would catalog how much each fisher catches.

But, Tehei said, rahui have helped change the mentality some Tahitians have towards taking care of the ocean and its ecosystems.

"For Tahitian people, the ocean is everything," he said. "People want to keep it healthy and prosperous."

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

The extreme weather seen in places across the United States in recent weeks shows that it doesn't take a catastrophic hurricane to cause significant damagethe torrential rain from Tropical Storm Debby in parts of the Southeast is just one example.

The slow-moving system lingering over Georgia and the Carolinas Wednesday after coming ashore in Florida as a minimal Category 1 hurricane has flooded low-lying communities and combined with other weather to leave thousands without power in places as far away as Ohio and New York City. At least six people have diedseveral killed by falling trees, others on flooded roadways, and multiple states are under emergency declarations with more rainfall to come.

Van Johnson, mayor of Savannah, Georgia, told locals to "Hunker down" in a livestream as the storm came near. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre asked Americans during a press briefing "to remain vigilant, heed the warnings of local officials and visit ready.gov for tips on how to stay safe."

As weather patterns change due to global warming and damaging storms become more frequent, even in places where people thought they were relatively safe, experts say disaster preparation can make all the difference.

What should you do if you face record rainfall?

Well in advance of extreme weather, it's important to consider whether your home meets updated building codes and to become familiar with your insurance coverage, said Victoria Salinas, who leads the Federal Emergency Management Agency's resilience program.

As storms draw near, checking in on neighbors, signing up for real-time city, county and FEMA weather alerts and listening to the news and local officials are also key.

"Make sure that things like the gutters are clear," Salinas added. "If you live in an area where there are storm drains and stormwater systems, helping make sure that the water has a place to flow both on your property and on your block, is really important."

"Sandbags can play a really important role" if used correctly, she added. "Sandbags need to be outside of your door, against the door, where the water may likely enter. If the water is likely to be there for a long period of time, it's important to make sure that sandbags are also wrapped with plastic."

Should you try to evacuate or stay put?

If there are local orders to evacuate, people need to listen to them, gather important documents, get enough gas to drive out and be prepared to be away for an extended period of time, said Jeannette Sutton, associate professor at the University at Albany.

"Just because an event seems like it's not possible, I would hope that that wouldn't affect people's decision," she added. "Err on the side of caution."

As major storms move in, there often comes a point when leaving is more hazardous than staying put.

"Unfortunately we usually lose way too many lives in these big flood events because people try to drive through flooded roadways," said Phil Klotzbach, senior research scientist at Colorado State University's Department of Atmospheric Science.

Charleston, South Carolina, shut down all roads into the city's downtown peninsula for 32 hours to avoid high water rescues. Driving can also cause wakes that send floodwater over the tops of sand bags.

"Bottom line is we need you to stay home until this passes," Charleston Mayor William Cogswell said. "We especially don't need any yahoos driving through the water and causing damage to properties."

How can you prepare your home and belongings?

Moving keepsakes, furniture and things that are valuable to upper levels, if that's an option, and making sure sump pump batteries are fully charged are shorter-term ways to prepare, along with ensuring there's enough food, water and medical supplies, FEMA's Salinas said.

"If I had a car, I would probably try and put it in a parking structure, up above where the waters might flood so that my car doesn't flood," recommends Jeff Masters, founder of Weather Underground, now with Yale Climate Connections.

"Waterproofing your home is always a good idea," he said. "And it's always smart to not have your backup generators, for instance, down in the basement."

What can you do once a disaster has started?

If people aren't able to prepare for floods in time, they should move to the highest level of their home, experts say, or seek out a safe shelter.

However, if high wind and tornadoes are a threat, it could be dangerous to be too high up, experts say. That's where checking forecasts is critical.

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Drilling a coral skeletal core on the Great Barrier Ree. Credit: Anne Hoggett, Lizard Island Research Station, Copyright holder: Tom DeCarlo. Used with permission.

The Great Barrier Reef is under critical pressure, with warming sea temperatures and mass coral bleaching events threatening to destroy the remarkable ecology, biodiversity, and beauty of the world's largest coral reef, according to new research.

"Highest ocean heat in four centuries places Great Barrier Reef in danger," published in Nature 8 August, led by University of Wollongong (UOW) Honorary Fellow and University of Melbourne Lecturer Dr. Benjamin Henley, provides evidence of the impact that rising sea surface temperatures have had, and will continue to have, on Australia's ecological jewel.

The research reconstructs 400 years of summer sea surface temperatures in the Coral Sea. The results chronicle extreme recent ocean heat that has led to mass coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef.

UNESCO's World Heritage Committee recently handed down its final decision on the state of the Great Barrier Reef, declining to list the Reef as in danger. However, the scientists have pushed back and say, based on their new evidence, the Great Barrier Reef is absolutely in danger.

Removing a skeletal core from a coral colony in the Coral Sea. Credit: Tom DeCarlo, Tulane University

Dr. Henley and his team combined sea surface temperature reconstructions using geochemical data from coral cores previously collected from the region. They also analyzed climate model simulations of sea surface temperatures, run with and without climate change, finding that human-caused climate change is to blame for the rising temperatures in the region.

The recent mass bleaching events coincide with five of the six hottest years in the new 400-year-long record. In the years 2024, 2017 and 2020, the Coral Sea reached 400-year highs, with 2024 being the warmest on record by a large margin.

The recent heat events in 2016, 2004, and 2022, were the next warmest three years on record. The impact on the Great Barrier Reef's unparalleled ecology and biodiversity over repeated sequences of mass coral bleaching is devastating.

"When I plotted the 2024 data point, I had to triple check my calculationsit was off the chartsfar above the previous record high in 2017. I could almost not believe it. Tragically, mass coral bleaching has occurred yet again this year," Dr. Henley said.

"In the absence of rapid, coordinated and ambitious global action to combat climate change, we will likely witness the demise of one of Earth's most spectacular natural wonders.

"When you compile all of the evidence we have, it's the inevitability of the impacts on the reef in the coming years that really gets to me."

Professor Helen McGregor, from UOW's Environmental Futures, who is the second author of the study, said urgent action is needed to prevent devastation of one of the world's most important ecosystems.

"There is no 'if, but or maybe'the ocean temperatures during these bleaching events are unprecedented in the past four centuries."

"The Great Barrier Reef is facing catastrophe if anthropogenic climate change is not immediately addressed. The very corals that have lived for hundreds of years and that gave us the data for our study are themselves under serious threat," Professor McGregor said.

"Our climate model analysis confirms that human influence on the climate system is responsible for the rapid warming in recent decades," said Dr. Henley, who undertook most of the study as a post-doctoral researcher at UOW, where he is now an Honorary Fellow.

"Without urgent intervention, our iconic Great Barrier Reef is at risk of near-annual bleaching from high ocean temperatures. The Reef's fundamental ecological integrity and outstanding universal value are at stake.

"We have many of the key solutions to stop climate change; what we need is a step change in the level of coordinated national and international action to transition to net zero.

"We can never lose hope. Every fraction of a degree of warming we avoid will lead to a better future for the human and natural systems of our planet.

"We hope that our study equips policymakers with more evidence to pursue deeper cuts in greenhouse gas emissions internationally."

Coral bleaching occurs when stress causes the corals to expel the algae that live in their tissue. The algae give corals their vibrant colors and without them the coral's white skeleton is exposed.

Stress from environmental disturbances and declining water quality can lead to bleaching, but recent warming in sea temperatures has led to bleaching on a mass scale. Corals can recover from bleaching events if the stress trigger, such as extreme ocean warming, is reduced for a significant period. The reef has experienced five major mass coral bleaching events since 2016.

While the Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, the groundbreaking research has implications for coral reef systems throughout the world, highlighting the link between the long-term trajectory of extreme ocean temperatures and the ecological health and biodiversity of these complex and crucial ecosystems.

Researchers from Securing Antarctic's Environmental Future, UOW, University of Melbourne, The University of Queensland, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, Tulane University (U.S.), and Columbia University (U.S.) contributed to the paper.

More information: Benjamin Henley, Highest ocean heat in four centuries places Great Barrier Reef in danger, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07672-x. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07672-x Journal information: Nature
An American woman found tied to a tree and screaming in a forest in India actually shackled herself to the tree, authorities say.

Law enforcement officials and the woman's doctor in the western Indian state of Maharashtra told the BBC that Lalita Kayi, 50, had tied herself to the tree, contradicting the written statement she gave the police.

Kayi told police in a written statement that her husband "chained her and left her in the forest to die without food or water."

claiShemed she was without food or water for 40 days; however, police questioned her statement, noting that it was highly unlikely that someone would survive for that long.

The new update shocked officials, as several teams were tasked with investigating how she came to be in the forest in the first place.

On Tuesday, Saurabh Agarwal, superintendent of police for Sindhudurg, said that Kayi is now saying she is not married and that she was probably suffering from hallucinations when she gave her first statement.

The allegedly told police she was distressed because her visa had run out and her money was low, so she bought the locks and chains and tied herself to the tree.

Kayi is currently receiving treatment at a psychiatric facility.

Dr. Sanghamitra Phule, superintendent of the psychiatric hospital where Kayi is being treated, said her "condition is improving."

"She eats, walks, and also exercises. She is under treatment, and we are also giving her some nutrients that her body was lacking."

Kayi was rescued on July 27 from the dense forests of Sindhudurg district by a cow herder who heard her screams.

The police had to cut off the chain to free her and noted how emaciated she appeared. She was quickly transported to a hospital.

Kayi was found with a copy of her passport that stated she was a US citizen from Massachusetts, along with other documents and her address in Tamil Nadu.

She also had a cell phone, a tablet, and 31,000 rupees ($370) with her.
SPRINGFIELD  Illinois first-in-the-nation law that allows residents to sue companies over the improper collection of their biometric information will be slightly less punitive after Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a new law late last week.

Lawmakers this spring amended the Biometric Information Privacy Act in response to an Illinois Supreme Court ruling last year that suggested lawmakers clarify the law. That ruling found fast food chain White Castle violated BIPA each time employees scanned their fingerprints in the course of performing their jobs, as the company never obtained employees permission to collect their fingerprints.

But under Senate Bill 2979, employees or customers whose fingerprints, retinal scans, voice samples or other unique biometric information were collected by businesses without their permission can only claim one violation of BIPA instead of hundreds. In jobs with fingerprint-enabled time clocks and cash registers or other secure areas that require biometric data scans to access, employees might end up scanning their thumbs or eyes dozens of times per day.

Using the old method of accrual, White Castles attorneys estimated the company would be on the hook for up to $17 billion in penalties, as the law provides for $1,000 in damages for each negligent violation or $5,000 for each reckless or intentional violation.

Though the eye-popping number made headlines, White Castle earlier this year settled the case for $9.4 million.

Business groups, however, argue that settlement and others like it represent the obvious outcome of the law unique to Illinois, which they argue has incentivized the creation of a cottage industry for ambitious attorneys.

Though technology took years to catch up with the laws aims, thousands of lawsuits have been filed  especially since they began to take off around 2018  including a few that have resulted in high-profile settlements, such as a $650 million class-action payout from Facebook in 2020.

While some business groups were supportive of the reforms, others claimed they did not go far enough.

Chicago-based attorney Danielle Kays of Fisher & Phillips LLP, who represents companies facing BIPA challenges, told Capitol News Illinois that the amendment can be seen as a step in the right direction but said its up to the courts to interpret the update to the law.

This isnt the full reform that most businesses probably want  or that is warranted, given that still no plaintiff has actually been harmed by BIPA violations, she said.

Because there have been no data breaches that have led to anyones fingerprints or other biometric information being stolen, Kays and others say lawmakers should further amend BIPA to allow businesses to cure violations before facing a lawsuit. A business is in violation of BIPA if it doesn't have a storage policy in place, doesn't properly protect the data, or if it does not get consent from customers or employees for the data being collected.

The amendment also made it easier for companies to get consent from customers or employees.

While the old law required informed written consent for the collection of fingerprints and other biometric data, businesses can now obtain that consent via an electronic signature, which the bill defines as an electronic sound, symbol, or process.

Kays also noted that there was an uptick in BIPA cases filed between May  when lawmakers passed the amendment  and the end of July.

We track the cases on a daily basis and BIPA filings have been fairly consistent but there, of course, have been ebbs and flows, she said. One could conclude that the plaintiffs were trying to file the lawsuits before the BIPA amendment went into effect.

Grocery tax to be eliminated

As part of state budget negotiations this year, lawmakers approved Pritzkers plan to eliminate the statewide 1% grocery tax beginning in 2026. He signed that provision into law on Monday.

The revenue from the state grocery tax goes to municipal governments, rather than state coffers. To make up for those lost revenues, the law allows counties and municipalities to levy their own 1% grocery taxes by passing an ordinance, rather than needing a referendum.

It also gives non-home rule municipalities the authority to impose sales taxes by up to 1% without a referendum.

Inspecting state developmental facilities

The Illinois Department of Human Services Office of the Inspector General will be allowed to conduct unannounced site visits at state-run facilities serving individuals with developmental or mental disabilities.

Senate Bill 857, signed Friday, gives the OIG authority to conduct site visits to all community agencies in the state, including Community Integrated Living Arrangements and Community Mental Health Centers. The OIG is also required to issue written reports and recommendations after reviewing a facility.

The OIG will also have more authority to investigate allegations of material obstruction of an investigation under the law that took effect upon its signature on Friday.

Coverage of infertility, wigs

Senate Bill 773 requires state-regulated group health insurance policies that cover pregnancy to group health insurance to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infertility starting in 2026, including such options as in vitro fertilization. The measure also requires those plans to cover annual menopause health visits for those age 45 and older.

Senate Bill 2573 requires insurance plans to cover wigs for individuals who are losing their hair for medical reasons, such as alopecia or from undergoing chemotherapy.

Mindful classrooms

Senate Bill 2872 allows educators to provide students with at least 20 minutes of relaxation activities, like yoga and meditation, each week. It would also allow them to partner with an outside institution to provide the activities.

During House debate this spring, supporters of the bill said practicing soothing techniques, like breathing exercises and stretching, helps students manage their mental health. But those opposed expressed concern with potential programming interfering with classroom learning time and religious freedoms.

Food grants

A pilot program that has given nearly $2 million to local farms will become permanent after Pritzkers signature Friday on Senate Bill 3077. It creates a special fund for the Department of Agriculture to administer the Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program.

Grants would go to select small farms for things like food processing and cold storage. Grant amounts could range from $1,000 to $75,000 for individual projects and up to $250,000 for a collaborative project.

Garbage truck coverings

Garbage trucks that lose trash because they are not properly covered will be subject to fines starting next year. House Bill 4848 creates a specific violation for law enforcement to cite when garbage or other debris falls from a truck and litters highways. Each infraction will result in a $150 ticket.
Lydia Harris is heading back to school, but the burden of paying for her education has been taken care of.

Harris works as a doula and is a certified lactation specialist, helping educate new mothers on the breastfeeding process. The next level in education involves becoming a certified lactation consultant, a lengthy and expensive process.

The class is about 53-hours long, concludes with a state exam and comes at a cost of about $1,000. For Harris, that cost will be covered thanks to a grant from Molina Healthcare of Iowa. The company donated $10,000 to the Iowa Black Doula Collective, a Davenport-based organization that emphasizes holistic care for individuals of color.

The grant is specifically for training doulas to become certified lactation consultants in order to help solve a significant problem in the healthcare community.

In 2019, only 69% of Black mothers in Iowa breastfeed at the time of hospital discharge, compared to 84% of white mothers, according to a study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2021. The CDC found one in four babies are breastfed during the recommended first six months after birth.

"A lot of it is due to not having support and resources. On top of that, the Quad-Cities lacks people of color in the maternal health field," Harris said. "We don't have too many people that look like us that provide the education and the support in that role."

Harris said she often hears from women and families that they are glad to have another Black woman in the room not only to advocate for them, but to answer questions.

"They're able to ask questions. When you're pregnant you are going through so many hormonal changes, your body is changing, and some of those questions can be awkward," she said. "Sometimes people are afraid of what their provider might say, but when you have someone that looks like you and gets it, especially culturally, they're able to open up and talk about the things that they're going through."

The benefits of breastfeeding includes a reduced risk of asthma, obesity, Type 1 diabetes, severe lower respiratory disease, ear infections and infant death syndrome, according to the Doula Collective. Breastfeeding can also help lower a mothers risk of high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, as well as ovarian and breast cancer.

Ebonie Bailey founded the Iowa Black Doula Collective in 2020 after seeing Black mothers and babies dying at higher rates. As a doula with 12 years of experience, Bailey has assisted in many births and wanted to make a cultural impact as well.

While midwives have formal medical training for the birthing process, doulas work with the mothers to provide mental, emotional and physical support, she said. In addition to being a doula herself, Bailey is a lactation specialist, meaning she helps mothers begin the breastfeeding process and supports them along the journey.

"Breastfeeding is one of our key goals to make sure families have not only education but access to breastfeeding support," Bailey said. "Being able to have Black CLCs (certified lactation counselors) in Iowa where we currently have less than five is going to be paramount."

The Molina grant will cover 100% of costs for lactation consultant training with mentorship provided by staff from the Iowa Black Doula Collective.

Photos: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz
A Davenport man is facing charges after he allegedly broke into a home and beat the occupant, police said.

Brandon Thomas Westmoreland, 28, is charged in Scott County District Court with one count of first-degree burglary. The charge is a Class B felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of 25 years. He also is charged with assault causing bodily injury, a serious misdemeanor that carries a jail sentence of up to one year.

Westmoreland ran for Davenport mayor in the last city election. He received 311 votes out of 4,048 votes cast in the October primary, coming in fourth.

According to the arrest affidavits filed by Davenport Police Officer Nicholas Wood, police were sent to the 2800 block of Davenport Avenue to investigate a report of an assault at 4:52 a.m. Friday.

Westmoreland entered a home and struck the occupant six times in the head, the charges allege. The victim had noticeable injuries to his face and head, according to the affidavits.

Westmoreland was arrested Tuesday.

During a first court appearance on the charges in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Peter Gierut scheduled Westmoreland to be arraigned on Aug. 29 after Westmoreland waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

Westmoreland was being held Tuesday night in the Scott County Jail on a $25,000 cash-only bond that had been set by Gierut.
Iowa Democratic U.S. House candidate Christina Bohannan aims to make abortion rights a central issue for voters in her renewed bid to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks.

Bohannan launched her first campaign ad of the election cycle, attacking Miller-Meeks over abortion. Bohannan, a former state lawmaker and University of Iowa law professor vying for Southeast Iowas 1st Congressional District seat, began airing her ad, "Imagine," on Tuesday as part of a "multimillion dollar TV and digital campaign," according to her campaign. The 20-county district includes the cities of Davenport, Muscatine, Iowa City, Burlington and Indianola.

The ad comes a week after an Iowa law backed by Republicans took effect banning most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.

"Iowa now has one of the strictest abortion bans in the country because of Mariannette Miller-Meeks," Bohannan says in the 30-second ad. "And in Congress, she's pushing to ban all abortions nationwide with no exceptions for rape or incest."

A former Iowa state senator, Miller-Meeks did not serve in the Iowa Legislature when lawmakers last year during a rare special session passed a law banning abortions once cardiac activity can be detected.

Bohannan contends Miller-Meeks laid the groundwork to ban abortion in Iowa. While in the Iowa Senate, Miller-Meeks voted for anti-abortion rights legislation, including a constitutional amendment declaring there is no right to abortion in the state.

The former practicing ophthalmologist and licensed physician from Ottumwa has applauded the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 ruling the overturned Roe v. Wade, putting abortion regulations back into the hands of the states.

In Congress, Miller-Meeks co-sponsored the 2021-22 Life At Conception Act that states life begins at fertilization, banning all abortions. It has no exceptions for rape, incest or the womans life, and does not spell out protections for fertility treatments.

Miller-Meeks did not sign on as a sponsor of the resolution in the current Congress. She has said she supports a national 15-week ban on abortion with exceptions for rape, incest and life of the mother.

Christina Bohannan is blatantly misrepresenting my record, Miller-Meeks said in a statement to The Gazette. I am pro-life with exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.

She called Bohannan an extremist who, if elected, will vote to force taxpayer funding of abortion  and for wide-open abortion laws like they have in China and Russia.

Bohannan outraised Miller-Meeks in the latest fundraising quarter, taking in $1.23 million to Miller-Meeks' $847,000. Bohannan, as of July 1, also surpassed Miller-Meeks in cash on hand by more than $200,000.

National Democrats have placed the 1st District on their list of targeted seats in their quest to regain control of the U.S. House in the November election.

Nunn launches new ad

Iowa Republican U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn, of Bondurant, is up with a new TV ad touting his bipartisan work in Congress.

The ad, Dirty Job, features clips of Nunn working alongside volunteers at the Iowa State Fair cleaning up trash, shoveling manure and scrubbing a grill.

One team working together to get the job done, Nunn says in the ad.   Thats the Iowa way. And Ive taken our spirit to Congress, working with Republicans and Democrats to solve problems.

Nunn, a combat veteran, is seeking re-election to a second term in Iowas competitive 3rd Congressional District.

National Democrats have placed the district on their list of targeted seats in their quest to regain control of the U.S. House in the November election. The district covers 21 counties in Central and Southern Iowa, including the Des Moines metro area, Osceola and Ottumwa.

Nunn faces Democrat challenger Lanon Baccam, an Army veteran and former U.S. Department of Agriculture official, in the November general election.

Nunn recently was named by the non-partisan Lugar Center and the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University as one of the top 10 most bipartisan members of Congress. The bipartisan index measures the frequency with which a member co-sponsors a bill introduced by the opposite party and the frequency with which a members own bills attract co-sponsors from the opposite party.

The 2024 Republican National Convention in photos
A lineman tends to fallen power lines in the East End neighborhood of Houston, days after Hurricane Beryl made landfall. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer An electrical worker with PAR Electrical Contractors repairs a power line after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Kingwood. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Linemen tend to fallen power lines in the East End neighborhood of Houston, days after Hurricane Beryl made landfall, on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer

Some Houstonians may lose power for four to eight hours over the next 30 days as CenterPoint Energy installs stronger power poles, trims vegetation and installs devices that help reduce outages following a directive from Gov. Greg Abbott, the company said in a statement.

These temporary outages are necessary to keep the public and our workers safe as we complete this important work, CenterPoint CEO Jason Wells wrote in a letter to customers.

We know that any outages, even ones necessary for safety, can be frustrating for our customers, Wells wrote.

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CenterPoint staff and contractors have begun installing approximately 1,000 poles that are more resilient to storms, trimming or removing vegetation from 2,000 miles of power lines in areas with higher-risk vegetation and installing approximately 300 automated devices that reduce outage number and length, according to Wells. CenterPoint did not address how it would pay for the upgrades, but it could seek a rate increase to cover the costs and some amount of profit.

These efforts come after Abbott called CenterPoints original proposal to trim trees around 1,650 miles of power lines and replace 1,000 poles by the end of the year inadequate. Abbott then directed the Houston-area electric utility to speed up its plans to avoid more mass power outages for the remainder of hurricane season.

Weve heard loud and clear the calls for change, the need for CenterPoint to do better, and most importantly, the need to take action now, Wells wrote in his Monday letter.

If CenterPoint needs to enact a temporary outage, it will use door hangers to inform impacted customers, according to Wells. Those customers will also receive automated calls and texts as well as emails about when work is planned, estimated outage dates and times and estimated restoration times, when possible, he wrote.

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Critical customers, a term that usually refers to facilities such as hospitals and fire and police stations, will be informed about the potential for temporary outages, Wells wrote.

Outage updates can also be found on CenterPoints new outage tracker, which launched Aug. 1.
Hundreds of Richmond police officers, residents and city and community organizations gathered in all nine of Richmonds precincts on Tuesday for block parties marking the annual National Night Out.

The event, which is celebrated each year in all 50 states and some U.S. territories, began in 1984 in Pennsylvania. It aims to build relationships between communities and the law enforcement agencies that serve them.

In Richmond, it was celebrated at 37 different locations.

One block party was held at Hobson Lodge No. 23 in South Richmond, with music, dancing, food stalls and booths with local agencies and merchants alike.

Sheriff Antionette V. Irving said connecting with the community as law enforcement is important to her not just for National Night Out, but for all year long.

Its important that were connected simply because it shows that we are one, Irving said. That our young people can come to us and talk to us if theres a problem, and even when theres not a problem.

Irving said a sense of community is imperative considering problems the city of Richmond faces.

We have a lot of gun violence going on, we have poverty, we have people that need jobs, Irving said. And the more and more interactions we can have with one another, it teaches us that if you need somebody that were here for each other.

A recent report found that crimes like homicide, traffic deaths and shootings in the city have gone down in 2024.

Aku Reinhardt, a mason at Hobson Lodge, gave out pizza with other masons. He said outreach in the community is a mission of their lodge because they are members of the community themselves.

Its extremely important to stay connected to the community because we are part of it and our members are from all over the community. he said.

Hobson Lodge has hosted the event for five years. Additionally, community programs are a large part of their mission.

Its really all about the kids, Reinhardt said. We feed the homeless, we do polls, we do school supplies throughout the year, we send kids to school, we do scholarships, we have a youth program.

Clovia Lawrence, who works closely with the RPD, is a community organizer.

We want to grow communities together, we want to build villages, Lawrence said. And its more than just a community, its a village where everybody looks out for everybody.

She said its more than just crime prevention. She hopes that the celebration connects families with city services they may need.

A lot of families have been disconnected with resources because theyve been out of school, she said. And not only families, but were talking about the children and young adults as well.

The Department of Public Utilities was one of those city resources that had employees in attendance.

Rhonda Johnson, director of utilities for DPU, said building community relationships is what brought the agency out.

One thing that weve found is that people like to see a face, Johnson said. Its what we try to do to make us real, and let people know that we are here for them.

A similar block party was held at the Richmond Highway Civics Association near Walmsley.

The Broken Men Foundation handed out burgers and hotdogs to community members.

The Broken Men Foundation, a Richmond nonprofit founded in 2014, aims to take back the community and uplift and invest boys and young men.

Ellery Lundy, the founder and president of the foundation, spoke about the importance of visibility in the community.

Were trying to create the next generation of young men, he said. And the only way we can do that is by actually being out here because a lot of times they just dont know.

The Broken Men Foundation has served over 800 young men ages 11-17 in Richmond since its founding, Lundy said.

We just want to give back, he said. Giving back to the community that has given a lot to us.

From the Archives: South Richmond
California woman entering Mexico in nothing to declare lane found with 47 kilos of crystal meth

Tijuana, Baja California  National Guard and Mexican Customs have arrested a California woman found transporting synthetic crystal meth across the border. The woman was attempting to enter Mexico in the nothing to declare lane from California.

She was taken into custody at the Tijuana international border crossing after the drugs were discovered hidden in a spare tire compartment. The bags of drugs were located by a K9 narcotics dog during an inspection at the El Chaparral checkpoint.

During the search of her vehicle, authorities located 11 packages with a granular and crystalline substance weighing approximately 47 kilograms, the SSPC (Secretaria de Seguridad y Proteccion Ciudadana) of Mexico reported in a statement.

Authorities found 47 kilos of synthetic crystal meth hidden in her SUV. Photo: SSPC July 30, 2024.

The drugs were found in the trunk, under a mat located in the spare tire compartment, the SSPC said, adding that the synthetic crystal meth weighed approximately 47 kilograms.
Lopez Obrador hopes Mexican peso remains strong as he heads to the end of his presidential term

Mexico City, Mexico  President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador estimated that his administration will end without devaluation of the Mexican peso. Lopez Obrador says for nearly six years, his government has maintained strength, especially in the recent nervousness among international financial markets.

It is very likely that we will reach the last day of government without a devaluation and this has not been seen since 1970, for more than 50 years. () If we reach the end of September without falling, it will be historic like many other things that are historic: foreign investment, reserves of the Bank of Mexico, salary increases, he said at the Tuesday morning press conference.

As of Monday, the local currency appreciated by five percent against the US dollar, a figure that places the country in second place worldwide only below the Swiss franc, which has appreciated by 14.6 percent. This, he said, does not mean a devaluation, as occurred in previous administrations.

The Mexican peso is currently in better shape than currencies such as the euro, which is down 3.4 percent, the Canadian dollar down 4 percent, the Japanese yen down 27 percent, the Brazilian real down 48 percent and the Russian ruble, which is down 77.2 percent.

On Tuesday morning, the Mexican peso was trading at 19.32 per USD after a series of falls in markets and stock exchanges around the world following the publication of unemployment data in the United States, which has caused uncertainty since August 2.

The President recalled that in previous six-year terms the national currency faced constant devaluations.

During the administration of Miguel de la Madrid (1982-1988) it registered an appreciation of minus 4,462 percent. During that of Carlos Salinas de Gortari (1988-1994), minus 49.1 percent, with Ernesto Zedillo (1994-2000) minus 172.6 percent, during that of Vicente Fox (2000-2006) minus 15.3 percent, during the period of Felipe Calderon (2006-2012) minus 20.8 percent and during that of Enrique Pena Nieto (2012-2018) minus 43 percent, he detailed.

The peso was devalued during all of those governments, but it has not been devalued during our administration, during this six-year term. It is the first time in 50 years that our peso has not been devalued, he added.

Lopez Obrador provided a graph of the appreciation of the Mexican peso during his and other terms. Photo: AMLO August 6, 2024.

President Lopez Obrador reiterated that Mexico can withstand the contingencies of the international order by having a strong and stable economy.

We are able to bear it. We are holding on because we do not have an unmanageable debt, that is, we are careful not to get into debt. The collection is very good. We have a strong economy, but it is an interconnected world.

We are already very integrated into the United States economy so it is not that this crisis arose there because of the announcement of the increase in unemployment, but it is spreading, of course, it affects us and everyone.

Hopefully this will not happen again, that there will be no more crises in the United States or anywhere else, he said.

In recent days, he said, the country passed the test because it was a global financial crisis. Currencies fell everywhere, stock markets everywhere.

President Lopez Obrador indicated that the Government of Mexico will be aware of what happens in this context.

This crisis occurred in the United States and then in Japan and we have to be careful because they are already warnings that the world economy is not doing well and we have to be very alert, he said.

Lopez Obrador said that thanks to the record international reserves of the Bank of Mexico and the constant appreciation of the Mexican peso during his government, the national economy will withstand the recent instability in international financial markets.

In addition, he said, the country maintains strong finances which allows it to face adversities that cause instability worldwide such as the unemployment data in the United States.

We have a buffer zone. It doesnt affect us that much because our finances are very strong. Of course, we are neighbors of the United States, there is economic integration and it affects the whole world, it affects Japan, it affects everywhere, but we can resist a little more, he said.

Lopez Obrador will finish his term as the President of Mexico on September 30 when President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum will become the countrys first female president.